strawberry chiffon shortcake, perfected
5 days ago
Sunday, January 06, 2008
Friday, January 04, 2008
April 2007 - Catch up Post 1
April was about two things -- 10 mile races and job searching. Preparing for the former was a pleasant salve for the unpleasantness that comes with the latter. The worst thing about job searching is the best stuff has a tendency to come to you, through networking or a recruiter seeking you out. This was true for me as well.
The first race of the month was the Cherry Blossom 10-Miler, an annual DC tradition that I was so eager to be a part of that I spent two days attempting to register. (Thanks marathonguide). Only after I had shelled out my money did I put two and two together and realize that April 1 was a week after National Half. In my head I was giving myself a week between races -- given that other runners have told me they did the same thing, clearly it makes perfect sense. Just nod your heads and smile at my inability to read a calendar properly. Race day dawned (too early, but thanks to our early start on daylight saving time not as early as it could have) and I schlepped on the Metro to Metro Center, road a school bus to West Potomac Park, and frankly six plus months later I still remember how flippin' cranky I was. Thoughts such as running 10 miles a week after a half marathon was the dumbest idea I'd ever had, it was too early... you get the picture. I dutifully waited to start with my group and found myself in the front of the corral because it was the only place with room. By the time we started I was at least calm, the weather was decent (no rain like the week before) and I just started running. When we ran across the Memorial Bridge I saw a sign for another runner exhorting her to run in 100 minutes or bust. I have on the fly math calculation issues in the best of circumstances, plus my ability to do "splits" math while running is bad so I thought that's too fast for me. As we rounded the circle at the end of the bridge I realized the split math was painfully easy and 100 minutes wasn't as far out of range as it had been in 2006. I busted 100 minutes, but only went over by 2 minutes. Not bad for cranky pants way I had started the morning.
The other 10 miler was the GW Parkway Classic. A few weeks had passed, I was tuning up for Cleveland Half Marathon, but I still thought I'd see if I could repeat Cherry Blossom. I also grappled with the idea that not every day can be a PR day; a humbling thought for a newbie where every race so far had been a better showing than the last. I finished about a minute slower than earlier in the month and enjoyed a hearty post-race breakfast at The Royal Restaurant with my running buddies. My other enduring memory of the day was the sheepish look on another runner's face when she was the only one dropped off at the 5K start (both races are point to point). Someone assured her that she was probably the sane one.
The first race of the month was the Cherry Blossom 10-Miler, an annual DC tradition that I was so eager to be a part of that I spent two days attempting to register. (Thanks marathonguide). Only after I had shelled out my money did I put two and two together and realize that April 1 was a week after National Half. In my head I was giving myself a week between races -- given that other runners have told me they did the same thing, clearly it makes perfect sense. Just nod your heads and smile at my inability to read a calendar properly. Race day dawned (too early, but thanks to our early start on daylight saving time not as early as it could have) and I schlepped on the Metro to Metro Center, road a school bus to West Potomac Park, and frankly six plus months later I still remember how flippin' cranky I was. Thoughts such as running 10 miles a week after a half marathon was the dumbest idea I'd ever had, it was too early... you get the picture. I dutifully waited to start with my group and found myself in the front of the corral because it was the only place with room. By the time we started I was at least calm, the weather was decent (no rain like the week before) and I just started running. When we ran across the Memorial Bridge I saw a sign for another runner exhorting her to run in 100 minutes or bust. I have on the fly math calculation issues in the best of circumstances, plus my ability to do "splits" math while running is bad so I thought that's too fast for me. As we rounded the circle at the end of the bridge I realized the split math was painfully easy and 100 minutes wasn't as far out of range as it had been in 2006. I busted 100 minutes, but only went over by 2 minutes. Not bad for cranky pants way I had started the morning.
The other 10 miler was the GW Parkway Classic. A few weeks had passed, I was tuning up for Cleveland Half Marathon, but I still thought I'd see if I could repeat Cherry Blossom. I also grappled with the idea that not every day can be a PR day; a humbling thought for a newbie where every race so far had been a better showing than the last. I finished about a minute slower than earlier in the month and enjoyed a hearty post-race breakfast at The Royal Restaurant with my running buddies. My other enduring memory of the day was the sheepish look on another runner's face when she was the only one dropped off at the 5K start (both races are point to point). Someone assured her that she was probably the sane one.
Monday, March 26, 2007
Oops I did it again...
... and unlike Britney it didn't involve shaving my head but shaving some time off my personal best for a half marathon. I have gone from 2:58 (Virginia Beach) to 2:23 (Philadelphia) to 2:20. Whoo hoo! It was a great day -- good course, lots of friends and family to cheer me on, cool weather (though I couldn't done without the soaking at about 6:15 before the race start) and a good run. The marathon course ran through all four quadrants of DC and the half marathoners hit three of the four quadrants. I believe we were a bit a sight to behold on Minnesota Ave SE for miles 10-11as I am not sure the neighbors quite understood why we were running. The small crowd was fun -- Minnesota Ave has some rolling hills -- there were some pre-teen girls telling us "no walking up the hill!" which I thought was sweet. I followed their "instructions", ran a piece of mile 11 with Coach John and trudged on to East Capitol Street to run back to RFK. Coach Anita was there for the last tenth of a mile (up another darn hill) lightly jogging beside me and goading me... you can't pass me ... to which I am thinking "you had hip surgery three weeks ago - damn straight I better pass you!" and I chugged on in to the finish line. A post run omelet at the Royal Restaurant and a chocolate donut... it doesn't get any better than this!
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Ready to run
Hmm, maybe a subject line about running away from the altar isn't the best choice?!? If there is a country song about everything I can't think of the one that says I am ready to pound my joints for 13.1 miles through the streets of Washington DC because I think it's a fun challenge.
It has been an eventful season... I trained for most of February on my own, endured cold mornings, icy sidewalks and a nose that wanted to run too. HA. We discovered the second most popular thing at water stops was the box of tissues!
Saturday marks 1/2 marathon number 3. The first time I was worried about finishing, the second time about running alone, and this time, well I am worried that I am not worried. (aka overconfidence). Every time gets easier but because it's me the worrying never stops. I have a time goal in mind, but all I will say here is that I'd like for it to be the same as Philly (2:23). Wish me luck!
It has been an eventful season... I trained for most of February on my own, endured cold mornings, icy sidewalks and a nose that wanted to run too. HA. We discovered the second most popular thing at water stops was the box of tissues!
Saturday marks 1/2 marathon number 3. The first time I was worried about finishing, the second time about running alone, and this time, well I am worried that I am not worried. (aka overconfidence). Every time gets easier but because it's me the worrying never stops. I have a time goal in mind, but all I will say here is that I'd like for it to be the same as Philly (2:23). Wish me luck!
Monday, March 19, 2007
In the groove
Yesterday I found myself in a nice sweet spot as a runner... I ran the St Patrick's Day 8K -- as I am tapering for National 1/2 Marathon I told myself I'd run to put the miles on my legs, not for time. I even had a running partner with a slightly shorter stride and some lingering knee problems to try to take it easy. And all of you who know me well are shaking your heads and saying "Yeah right Kate..."
And you would be correct -- I went out and found myself a new personal best at 8K - I shaved a minute off my splits from the Fair Lakes 8K back in September 2006 and felt great afterwards. I did not however beat his honor Mayor Adrian Fenty. The new mayor of DC is a force to be reckoned with on the race course -- Fenty ran 6:47 splits and finished 9th in his age bracket. Not too shabby...
A fellow runner from Fall season mailed me this article about running and writing. As a tardy blogger I thought it was kind of fun.
The link between Running and Writing
And you would be correct -- I went out and found myself a new personal best at 8K - I shaved a minute off my splits from the Fair Lakes 8K back in September 2006 and felt great afterwards. I did not however beat his honor Mayor Adrian Fenty. The new mayor of DC is a force to be reckoned with on the race course -- Fenty ran 6:47 splits and finished 9th in his age bracket. Not too shabby...
A fellow runner from Fall season mailed me this article about running and writing. As a tardy blogger I thought it was kind of fun.
The link between Running and Writing
Monday, February 12, 2007
I've been AWOL
Well a month has gone by and I haven't managed to post anything but I have certainly been on the trails and keeping busy.
TNT managed to convince me I'd be a great "training" captain in addition to my team captain duties. One of the primary things I do is coordinate volunteers for our water stops along the route. Now getting someone to be out on a trail at 0800 on a Saturday is challenging enough but add in our several week spell of 20 degree mornings and some days it feels impossible. Our runners have the benefit of motion to keep them warm (they say that after you get moving it will feel 20 degrees warmer) but our volunteers must don the long johns and extra layers to keep us hydrated. Our normal operating procedure is to pour water into cups for runners to grab -- but it's starting to freeze on the surface! Because of the sugar/salt combination Powerade doesn't freeze as quickly!
Running in this weather has been a challenge - two Saturdays ago I ran 8 miles for the first time in about 3 months into a "refreshing" head wind for the first 4 miles. I couldn't wait to turn around and have the wind at my back. Family matters called me away this past Saturday but I did sneak a run in -- however I wasn't so lucky with the wind this time. I ran the route below twice -- first time clockwise and the second time counter clockwise. I was secretly hoping that the second loop would put the wind in my favor on Ocean Avenue -- but mother nature was having fun with me and shifted the wind.
Run at the Shore
Proving that TNT participation is a contagious thing my friend Sarah has started her own TNT journey -- to complete her first ever triathalon. Her blog is linked to the right... it's a fun read.
TNT managed to convince me I'd be a great "training" captain in addition to my team captain duties. One of the primary things I do is coordinate volunteers for our water stops along the route. Now getting someone to be out on a trail at 0800 on a Saturday is challenging enough but add in our several week spell of 20 degree mornings and some days it feels impossible. Our runners have the benefit of motion to keep them warm (they say that after you get moving it will feel 20 degrees warmer) but our volunteers must don the long johns and extra layers to keep us hydrated. Our normal operating procedure is to pour water into cups for runners to grab -- but it's starting to freeze on the surface! Because of the sugar/salt combination Powerade doesn't freeze as quickly!
Running in this weather has been a challenge - two Saturdays ago I ran 8 miles for the first time in about 3 months into a "refreshing" head wind for the first 4 miles. I couldn't wait to turn around and have the wind at my back. Family matters called me away this past Saturday but I did sneak a run in -- however I wasn't so lucky with the wind this time. I ran the route below twice -- first time clockwise and the second time counter clockwise. I was secretly hoping that the second loop would put the wind in my favor on Ocean Avenue -- but mother nature was having fun with me and shifted the wind.
Run at the Shore
Proving that TNT participation is a contagious thing my friend Sarah has started her own TNT journey -- to complete her first ever triathalon. Her blog is linked to the right... it's a fun read.
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
Happy New Year
Well I made it through the holidays with a minimum of skipped runs, no added pounds and all of my sanity.
So far the spring season TNT'ers have had the welcome breakfast (Dec 2nd), a group run in Bethesda (Dec 9th) and a pace run (Dec 16th). December 9th presented a special treat because the Jolly Fat Man run was sharing the Capital Crescent Trail. You know that parking in Bethesda (which shouldn't be an issue at 0800 on a Saturday morning) is going to be fun when the first thing you see rounding the corner is the DC-101 promotional vehicle parked. I parked a block away and nearly croaked when I heard the race announcer say they had 700 runners. Did I mention the Crescent Trail isn't that wide? Oh and that it was 25 degrees that morning?!? Hello only crazy TNT fools should be on the trail in those conditions. No harm no foul, the race went off and we waited about half an hour and were able to run with no problem.
On the random front, over a decade in Maryland seems to have seeped in.
Now I don't know about shrines to Ray Lewis but rooting for the Ravens is usually a less sad exercise than being a Redskins fan. But when it comes to lacrosse I bleed black and blue not red. And it you are a Marylander you know what I mean.
So far the spring season TNT'ers have had the welcome breakfast (Dec 2nd), a group run in Bethesda (Dec 9th) and a pace run (Dec 16th). December 9th presented a special treat because the Jolly Fat Man run was sharing the Capital Crescent Trail. You know that parking in Bethesda (which shouldn't be an issue at 0800 on a Saturday morning) is going to be fun when the first thing you see rounding the corner is the DC-101 promotional vehicle parked. I parked a block away and nearly croaked when I heard the race announcer say they had 700 runners. Did I mention the Crescent Trail isn't that wide? Oh and that it was 25 degrees that morning?!? Hello only crazy TNT fools should be on the trail in those conditions. No harm no foul, the race went off and we waited about half an hour and were able to run with no problem.
On the random front, over a decade in Maryland seems to have seeped in.
| How Maryland Are You? Your Result: You're 100% Maryland You have erected a shrine to Ray Lewis in your living room, complete with a "BELIVE 'HON" bumper sticker on your car. You can name every county in the state and refer to Howard County as "Ho Co." The second you step over the stae line, you feel weird, and need a Natty Bo. | |
| You're 80% Maryland | |
| You're 60% Maryland | |
| You're 20% Maryland | |
| You're 40% Maryland | |
| How Maryland Are You? | |
Now I don't know about shrines to Ray Lewis but rooting for the Ravens is usually a less sad exercise than being a Redskins fan. But when it comes to lacrosse I bleed black and blue not red. And it you are a Marylander you know what I mean.
Thursday, November 30, 2006
I have been tagged...
I am avid reader of other blogs and apparently my habit got me tagged.
1. Explain what ended your last relationship? We grew up and apart...
2. When was the last time you shaved? I will take the 5th -- it's almost December!
3. What were you doing this morning at 8 a.m.? Checking my e-mail.
4.What were you doing 15 minutes ago? Typing a project plan
5. Are you any good at math? I prefer spreadsheets and the calculator (but my mom's 10-key skills are better than mine.)
6. Your prom night? Scary hair-do. I only recently threw out the box with the jillion hair pins that kept it in place along with the quart of hairspray.
7. Do you have any famous ancestors? Not that I know of.
8. Have you had to take a loan out for school? Nope. My parents did...
9. Do you know the words to the song on your myspace profile? No my space profile.
10. Last thing received in the mail? Netflix discs.
11. How many different beverages have you had today? Three - a glass of milk, coffee and water
12. Do you ever leave messages on people’s answering machine? Why not?
13. Who did you lose your CONCERT virginity to?
14. Do you draw your name in the sand when you go to the beach? Sometimes.
15. What is out your back door? The deck which is littered with leaves and needs to be resealed.
16. Any plans for Friday night? Yes, but they involve home improvement.
17. Do you like what the ocean does to your hair? It gives me the wavy look.
18. Have you ever received one of those big tins of 3 different popcorns? I don't think so.
19. Have you ever been to a planetarium? Probably? Some field trip?
20. Do you re-use towels after you shower? Yes.
21. Some things you are excited about? Running, knitting, baking when I get the chance
22. What is your favorite flavor of JELLO? Raspberry
23. Describe your keychain(s)? It's a cheap carabiner from Target
24. Where do you keep your change? In my wallet and in my car's center console (for parking).
25. What kind of winter coat do you own? Which one? I like coats for some reason. Currently I have one PETA would hate, a long brown wool one I bought in Italy, and pretty blue green one from last season.
26. What was the weather like on your graduation day? Sunny for high school and college.
27. Do you sleep with the door to your room open or closed? Depends
28. Did you read this far? If you did - TAG! You're it!
1. Explain what ended your last relationship? We grew up and apart...
2. When was the last time you shaved? I will take the 5th -- it's almost December!
3. What were you doing this morning at 8 a.m.? Checking my e-mail.
4.What were you doing 15 minutes ago? Typing a project plan
5. Are you any good at math? I prefer spreadsheets and the calculator (but my mom's 10-key skills are better than mine.)
6. Your prom night? Scary hair-do. I only recently threw out the box with the jillion hair pins that kept it in place along with the quart of hairspray.
7. Do you have any famous ancestors? Not that I know of.
8. Have you had to take a loan out for school? Nope. My parents did...
9. Do you know the words to the song on your myspace profile? No my space profile.
10. Last thing received in the mail? Netflix discs.
11. How many different beverages have you had today? Three - a glass of milk, coffee and water
12. Do you ever leave messages on people’s answering machine? Why not?
13. Who did you lose your CONCERT virginity to?
14. Do you draw your name in the sand when you go to the beach? Sometimes.
15. What is out your back door? The deck which is littered with leaves and needs to be resealed.
16. Any plans for Friday night? Yes, but they involve home improvement.
17. Do you like what the ocean does to your hair? It gives me the wavy look.
18. Have you ever received one of those big tins of 3 different popcorns? I don't think so.
19. Have you ever been to a planetarium? Probably? Some field trip?
20. Do you re-use towels after you shower? Yes.
21. Some things you are excited about? Running, knitting, baking when I get the chance
22. What is your favorite flavor of JELLO? Raspberry
23. Describe your keychain(s)? It's a cheap carabiner from Target
24. Where do you keep your change? In my wallet and in my car's center console (for parking).
25. What kind of winter coat do you own? Which one? I like coats for some reason. Currently I have one PETA would hate, a long brown wool one I bought in Italy, and pretty blue green one from last season.
26. What was the weather like on your graduation day? Sunny for high school and college.
27. Do you sleep with the door to your room open or closed? Depends
28. Did you read this far? If you did - TAG! You're it!
Monday, November 20, 2006
Releasing my inner Rocky or my inner Kenyan?!?
I closed out the fall running season by running the Philadelphia Half Marathon. The course began and ended at the Eakins Oval in front of the set of steps that Rocky Balboa made famous. Thankfully the course didn't involve any stair work.
My training partner was injured so I was on my own for this one. Nervous?!? A little... but better weather makes for better running, the course was reasonably flat and I knew I was ready. The first 5.5 miles of the course allowed for muliple chances for spectators to catch their runners and between mile 7 and 8 we ran through the Drexel University campus -- including up Fraternity and Sorority Row. Sigma Phi Episilon and Delta Zeta (my mom's sorority) were out in force on their side by side front porches drinking and whooping it up.
Around mile 1 I spotted was has to be the best sign for a runner ever - it read "Go [some runner's name] Go -- release your inner Kenyan!" My inner Kenyan must have been released as well -- I finished in 2:23:46 -- and more importantly I didn't feel like I was going to pass out!
My training partner was injured so I was on my own for this one. Nervous?!? A little... but better weather makes for better running, the course was reasonably flat and I knew I was ready. The first 5.5 miles of the course allowed for muliple chances for spectators to catch their runners and between mile 7 and 8 we ran through the Drexel University campus -- including up Fraternity and Sorority Row. Sigma Phi Episilon and Delta Zeta (my mom's sorority) were out in force on their side by side front porches drinking and whooping it up.
Around mile 1 I spotted was has to be the best sign for a runner ever - it read "Go [some runner's name] Go -- release your inner Kenyan!" My inner Kenyan must have been released as well -- I finished in 2:23:46 -- and more importantly I didn't feel like I was going to pass out!
Monday, October 30, 2006
The tortoise becomes a hare?!?
Ever since I ran the Army 10 miler I have been moderately enamored (ok slightly obesssed) with the idea of running a half marathon in Washington DC. It was truly amazing to run down Independence Ave at the 10 miler, run past the monuments that are so familiar and ok I admit it have friends and family come watch me run. But there was a small hurdle to overcome -- in order to participate in the second annual National Half Marathon I needed to qualify. I am known for being stubborn but I have to say I was hoping to only have to try once because the racing opportunities are thinning out as the weather gets colder. I am pleased to report at yesterday's Marine Marathon 10K time proved to be a winner!
To put this in perspective you only need to look back at my timed run in May. I was happy just to finish (at a 14 minute per mile pace). Yesterday I went out and ran 6.2 miles as if it were second nature. That must be some sort of minor miracle. (Or as Coach Rich said while we watched the Marine Corps Marathoners finish, some really good coaching - I am inclined to agree).
To put this in perspective you only need to look back at my timed run in May. I was happy just to finish (at a 14 minute per mile pace). Yesterday I went out and ran 6.2 miles as if it were second nature. That must be some sort of minor miracle. (Or as Coach Rich said while we watched the Marine Corps Marathoners finish, some really good coaching - I am inclined to agree).
Friday, October 27, 2006
Count down to the big event
This weekend a little thing called the Marine Corps Marathon takes over your nation's capitol. Now I have the running fever but not the patience to run the approximately 6 hours it would take me to finish a marathon. But my fellow teammates have been training all season long for the big day and I thought I'd share their thoughts as the day approached.
I will be running the 10K companion race and then will be on the course cheering people on. Run Strong and GO TEAM!
Twas three sleepnights before the race
And throughout metropolitan D.C.,
Carb-loading marathoners dreamt apace
Of the fans semper fidelis they might see.
The season, training since May, had been long . . .
And their legs/knees/feet were oft sore.
But they planned to finish strong!
(The effects of pilates on their core?)
With determination on their faces,
They remembered their mission: a CURE!
As they tied and re-tied their laces,
Victory, one step at a time, was sure.
The weather forecast for run/walking was ideal --
The better to attract a supportive crowd.
These TNT athletes imagined the zeal
Of friends and family cheering, cowbelling loud.
The course offered numerous chances, it seemed
For enterprising spectators, travelers among them,
To shout, "Run strong!" and "GO TEAM!"
Spectator Information
To read Daphne's take on all of this
It's Three Days Away
Spectator Information
So when, where, how to find (or text) Stro?
Averaging 12.5 minutes per mile . . .
Singlet purple, visor green (day-glo) . . .
Mostly, thanks to your support, by her smile
To read Daphne's take on all of this
It's Three Days Away
I will be running the 10K companion race and then will be on the course cheering people on. Run Strong and GO TEAM!
Saturday, October 21, 2006
I'm back
After all of my training I thought it would be a shame to waste the newly developed muscles, endurance, etc. Here's what I have been doing since my last post:
- Fair Lakes 8K -- 1 week after VA Beach - how motivated is that?!? Although I was greatly humbled by a significantly older gentleman who ran the last leg neck and neck with me. It turns out he is 74! The finish line commenter was calling out names as we approached the line. Even though he beat me by 2 seconds all I could think was I want to be that strong at 74!
- Navy 5 Miler on September 24th -- Humbled by the young this time - a coworker's 10 year old beat me by 6 minutes!
- The Army 10 Miler on October 8th -- an awesome run through DC and the monuments with a great crowd on Independence Avenue.
Monday, September 04, 2006
A journey of a lot of miles...
... began with a single step and ridiculous amount of stubborn determination.
I rocked Virginia Beach (my finisher's medal even says so!). Final time of 2:58:26, which meant I averaged 13:36 per mile over the course distance. Yesterday was humid and sunny -- the ideal race conditions were present the day before (about 5 degrees cooler and what felt like half as much humidity). The excitement of the race and a faster than average runner in our little group meant we came out stronger than we meant to (my 5K splits were 12:18 per mile). I lost a lot of speed between mile 9 and 10 -- just after I saw my support crew and just before I saw my sailing friend Janessa, whose boyfriend's band was playing on the course. (One of the selling features of the Rock and Roll Half Marathon is live music on the course. I have to say what sold me was the "fast and flat" race course!)
As I was training for this event people said "will you do it again?" and "is there a marathon in your future?" My answers before race day were "I will tell you after race day" and "definitely not." My answers now "yes I would do a half marathon again... I have a couple of races in mind." I have about five witnesses to my statement of no more summer endurance events though! -- it was TOO HOT . Running a full marathon remains out of the question. I think 3 hours is long enough to run. I would run with Team in Training again in a heartbeat -- there were people there every step of the way when I thought what in the hell am I doing and I just want to stop running now. To the Maryland TNT staff member who walked alongside of me at mile 10 and gave me sport beans, the Northern New Jersey Coach who ran most of mile 12 beside me and to Coach Rich who took me into the finish, thank you from the bottom of my heart. It was simply an amazing journey...
I rocked Virginia Beach (my finisher's medal even says so!). Final time of 2:58:26, which meant I averaged 13:36 per mile over the course distance. Yesterday was humid and sunny -- the ideal race conditions were present the day before (about 5 degrees cooler and what felt like half as much humidity). The excitement of the race and a faster than average runner in our little group meant we came out stronger than we meant to (my 5K splits were 12:18 per mile). I lost a lot of speed between mile 9 and 10 -- just after I saw my support crew and just before I saw my sailing friend Janessa, whose boyfriend's band was playing on the course. (One of the selling features of the Rock and Roll Half Marathon is live music on the course. I have to say what sold me was the "fast and flat" race course!)
As I was training for this event people said "will you do it again?" and "is there a marathon in your future?" My answers before race day were "I will tell you after race day" and "definitely not." My answers now "yes I would do a half marathon again... I have a couple of races in mind." I have about five witnesses to my statement of no more summer endurance events though! -- it was TOO HOT . Running a full marathon remains out of the question. I think 3 hours is long enough to run. I would run with Team in Training again in a heartbeat -- there were people there every step of the way when I thought what in the hell am I doing and I just want to stop running now. To the Maryland TNT staff member who walked alongside of me at mile 10 and gave me sport beans, the Northern New Jersey Coach who ran most of mile 12 beside me and to Coach Rich who took me into the finish, thank you from the bottom of my heart. It was simply an amazing journey...
Thursday, August 31, 2006
Approaching Race Day
On Sunday my 16 week journey from 0 miles per week to 12-15 miles per week will be tested in my first ever half-marathon. I have done the physical preparation -- every Saturday group run, Tuesday/Thursday solo and buddy runs as well as Wednesday cross-training (ok you all know that involved sailing and beer!). Now I just need to run so I can stop wondering "what will the race be like?" and does it really matter if this is a non-Gatorade race?!? (Because I can't see carrying little packets of Gatorade to mix while I run, the answer is no. I have my favorite energy source - Clif Bloks, so that's all that matters to me!)
So what have I learned in 16 weeks?
1. Running is fun... if you find your groove, awesome running partners and a good trail. Good trails = Capital Crescent, Custis Trail and the National Mall. Bad trails = Pierce Mill at Rock Creek Park.
2. Every future marathoner or half-marathoner needs an awesome group of runners and non-runners alike to encourage, cajole (recognize yourself?!?), and generally keep them honest.
3. Being speedy gets you to the finish line first, but the back of the pack has more fun.
4. Running is a worse cult than rowing, my former temple of pain
5. I couldn't have asked for a better training program than Team in Training. If you're thinking about joining them - to run a marathon, cycle 100 miles, or complete a triathalon - do it! It's a great cause to be associated with and a wonderful group of people.
So what have I learned in 16 weeks?
1. Running is fun... if you find your groove, awesome running partners and a good trail. Good trails = Capital Crescent, Custis Trail and the National Mall. Bad trails = Pierce Mill at Rock Creek Park.
2. Every future marathoner or half-marathoner needs an awesome group of runners and non-runners alike to encourage, cajole (recognize yourself?!?), and generally keep them honest.
3. Being speedy gets you to the finish line first, but the back of the pack has more fun.
4. Running is a worse cult than rowing, my former temple of pain
5. I couldn't have asked for a better training program than Team in Training. If you're thinking about joining them - to run a marathon, cycle 100 miles, or complete a triathalon - do it! It's a great cause to be associated with and a wonderful group of people.
Tuesday, August 15, 2006
I am strong...
... Ok I am not invincible, but Saturday's weather certainly made me feel that way. Mother Nature's birthday present to me was a beautiful, low humidity, 65 degree morning. I couldn't have asked for better weather to run 12 miles. (no that's not a typo!) I finished in under 3 hours and I felt good. Highlights include
- The company of my running buddies singing Happy Birthday as we ran down the trail
- My favorite trail (Capital Crescent Trail)
- Realizing I am strong enough to run 12 miles
- Finding Nikki, the wife of a former co-worker, working the water stop at mile 5.5 (isn't she lucky that the big sweaty hug she got wasn't as sweaty as it normally would be?)
Monday, August 07, 2006
A cure for the doldrums...
... can be found in beautiful, low humidity 70ish degree weather. I opened the front door on Saturday morning (at 0555!) and didn't feel like I was walking into an oven. This my friends is exciting. The 10 mile run two Saturdays ago was miserablely hot. Even though I was looking at 8 miles of hills, at least the weather was on my side.
In the end, the weather effect shaved 2 minutes per mile off my time. 8 miles in 104 minutes equals 13 minute miles. Whoo hoo! And at the end of my run, I felt good! I am sure this weather effect will be short-lived (the glass half-empty theory) and my 12 miles on the 12th will be like my 10 miles on 29th but for now the doldrums are over!
In the end, the weather effect shaved 2 minutes per mile off my time. 8 miles in 104 minutes equals 13 minute miles. Whoo hoo! And at the end of my run, I felt good! I am sure this weather effect will be short-lived (the glass half-empty theory) and my 12 miles on the 12th will be like my 10 miles on 29th but for now the doldrums are over!
Thursday, August 03, 2006
The doldrums
With multiple days of 100+ degree days (before the heat index!), you can't blame me for having a case of the blahs. It's not safe to run outdoors and the dreadmill, um I mean treadmill, has been a real treat. I swear I have completely reprioritized my home improvement list after my time on the treadmill in the basement. I have visions of a bright cheery workout room, with a nice plasma tv...
I am happy to report I did survive the 10 miles last Saturday. I discovered I really dislike running around Haines Point and that 10 miles in July takes me 2.5 hours. Oh well there is time for speed later. Saturday we conquer another piece of the Marine Corps Marathon Route -- I will keep you posted on how it goes.
I am happy to report I did survive the 10 miles last Saturday. I discovered I really dislike running around Haines Point and that 10 miles in July takes me 2.5 hours. Oh well there is time for speed later. Saturday we conquer another piece of the Marine Corps Marathon Route -- I will keep you posted on how it goes.
Friday, July 28, 2006
Friday Musings
I am behind on this and I know it. But gentle readers I must also point out no one submitted their favorite workout tunes. Enough said, we're even.
Last Saturday's run was eight miles -- done it once so I knew I could do it again. Only complaints - 90+ degrees and nasty humidity. The location was ok - Pierce Mill section of Rock Creek Park. It's Coach Rich's favorite which may have something to do with the fact that there seemed to be less bikers. I love the Capital Crescent Trail (maybe because it's where it all began on May 20th) but even at 0700 on a Saturday morning there are TONS of bikers. On the way home from the run I reflected that what gets me through the long runs is the joy of the back of the pack. I admit it, I envy the 8-10 minute mile group, but did you sing on your long run last Saturday? And not just any song but Buttercup. Take that you speedsters.
Tuesday was a treadmill day -- though Anne and Sarah say I get points for dedication. (I say I get penalized for laziness on Tuesday morning when the alarm went off at 0500 and I ignored it). Anne, Sarah and I are knitters and we decided to take a class at Stitch DC. (the best knitting store in the District). So at darn near 10 pm I was hitting the treadmill when I finally made it home from the Eastern Market station. I did add a few items to my workout mix on the i-pod to spice things up, but that doesn't mean y'all are off the hook!
Last night was probably the most challenging mid-week run ever. As Stro pointed out when we were done I faced (and conquered) several challenges in one 4 mile run and didn't really struggle until the last half mile. It was the usual 90 degree muggy weather (sadly I take that as a given) but since I had forgotten my water bottle and waist pack I had to carry my water. Coach Rich is right -- that really does throw off your gait. We had a luncheon at work and I have now figured out that even 5+ hours later enchiladas can really throw you off. Stro is a marathoner and her mileage mid-week has been increased to 4 miles so I had a new distance and route. Add to that we decided to run 5:1 and it's no wonder I was wrecked when I finished. And if all that wasn't enough the red line towards Glenmont required at 15 minute wait. Ugh.
Coach Rich has given us a preview of tomorrow's route. He split the distance -- marathoners are scheduled to run 12 miles and half-marathoners are scheduled to run 10 miles. He has an 11 mile route he likes so guess what - we're all running 11 miles. Fun times, I know you all secretly envy me.
Last Saturday's run was eight miles -- done it once so I knew I could do it again. Only complaints - 90+ degrees and nasty humidity. The location was ok - Pierce Mill section of Rock Creek Park. It's Coach Rich's favorite which may have something to do with the fact that there seemed to be less bikers. I love the Capital Crescent Trail (maybe because it's where it all began on May 20th) but even at 0700 on a Saturday morning there are TONS of bikers. On the way home from the run I reflected that what gets me through the long runs is the joy of the back of the pack. I admit it, I envy the 8-10 minute mile group, but did you sing on your long run last Saturday? And not just any song but Buttercup. Take that you speedsters.
Tuesday was a treadmill day -- though Anne and Sarah say I get points for dedication. (I say I get penalized for laziness on Tuesday morning when the alarm went off at 0500 and I ignored it). Anne, Sarah and I are knitters and we decided to take a class at Stitch DC. (the best knitting store in the District). So at darn near 10 pm I was hitting the treadmill when I finally made it home from the Eastern Market station. I did add a few items to my workout mix on the i-pod to spice things up, but that doesn't mean y'all are off the hook!
Last night was probably the most challenging mid-week run ever. As Stro pointed out when we were done I faced (and conquered) several challenges in one 4 mile run and didn't really struggle until the last half mile. It was the usual 90 degree muggy weather (sadly I take that as a given) but since I had forgotten my water bottle and waist pack I had to carry my water. Coach Rich is right -- that really does throw off your gait. We had a luncheon at work and I have now figured out that even 5+ hours later enchiladas can really throw you off. Stro is a marathoner and her mileage mid-week has been increased to 4 miles so I had a new distance and route. Add to that we decided to run 5:1 and it's no wonder I was wrecked when I finished. And if all that wasn't enough the red line towards Glenmont required at 15 minute wait. Ugh.
Coach Rich has given us a preview of tomorrow's route. He split the distance -- marathoners are scheduled to run 12 miles and half-marathoners are scheduled to run 10 miles. He has an 11 mile route he likes so guess what - we're all running 11 miles. Fun times, I know you all secretly envy me.
Thursday, July 20, 2006
Sick of the Treadmill
Well it was bound to happen at some point in my training -- it would be so ridiculously hot that outdoor running would be mildly dangerous instead of just mildly masochistic. With a heat index of 105, Tuesday definitely qualified. (As if I needed any further incentive to run indoors the Navy declared Tuesday a black flag day -- all outdoor physical training was cancelled.)
But the flip side is the sheer mononity of it. Forty minutes seems like drudgery -- and it doesn't help I am stuck in a music rut on my i-pod. So my devoted readers bring on your favorite exercise songs ... the heat is breaking a little but I am sure there are a few more treadmill days in my future.
But the flip side is the sheer mononity of it. Forty minutes seems like drudgery -- and it doesn't help I am stuck in a music rut on my i-pod. So my devoted readers bring on your favorite exercise songs ... the heat is breaking a little but I am sure there are a few more treadmill days in my future.
Saturday, July 15, 2006
A little excitement on the trail
By now I have overcome the early rising on Saturday morning for group runs, but last night on the GW Parkway I looked through the smog near Arlington Cemetry and noticed I could barely see the Georgetown campus. This didn't add to my excitement for today's run - I had already run Thursday night and come back dripping head to toe. YUCK.
Today's run was only 6 miles on the Capital Crescent Trail - familiar distance in a familiar place -- not much excitement to look forward to. Now we're used to trail manners about bikers but police cars?!? Somewhere between mile 8.5 and 9, there was a police car. At first it seemed like they were there for the tree on the trail - until you realized the tree got on the trail when someone drove down the path and crashed down into the gulch on the side of the trail! I have my trusty Washington Post reader (aka my mother) on the case and I'll post an update when I find out more. What we do know is that after we turned around at Thompson's Boat House and headed back to Fletcher's one of the police cars was escorting the driver away in hand-cuffs. It was a pity the camera phone was in the car!
Today's run was only 6 miles on the Capital Crescent Trail - familiar distance in a familiar place -- not much excitement to look forward to. Now we're used to trail manners about bikers but police cars?!? Somewhere between mile 8.5 and 9, there was a police car. At first it seemed like they were there for the tree on the trail - until you realized the tree got on the trail when someone drove down the path and crashed down into the gulch on the side of the trail! I have my trusty Washington Post reader (aka my mother) on the case and I'll post an update when I find out more. What we do know is that after we turned around at Thompson's Boat House and headed back to Fletcher's one of the police cars was escorting the driver away in hand-cuffs. It was a pity the camera phone was in the car!
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