Click, Click, Click

With the end of the year just a few days away, so is the deadline for early registration for a lot of races.
So this afternoon, I clicked my way into some of those races.

My race schedule for 08 is really shaping up.

On tap and paid for:

Feb 10 - Mercedes Marathon

March 15 - Tom King Half Marathon

May 18 - Memphis in May Triathlon

May 31 - Coliseum's Rock 'N RollMan Half Iron

June 28 - McMinnville City Triathlon

And of course Ironman Florida on Nov 1, that I paid for a few weeks ago.

I still have a few other races planned but they didn't have a Dec 31 price increase so I am holding onto my money a little longer.

My credit card isn't the only thing that has gotten a workout. I have been running some this week too.

I redeemed my gift of flexibility and skipped Sunday's run and Tuesday's run. But I ran 10 miles on Monday, 9.5 on Wednesday, 5 on Thursday, swam 1750 yards on Thursday and ran 13 this morning. Flexibility came into play again this morning. It started to rain at 11 miles and after 2 miles I had enough and cut the run 2 miles short.

We have two more Christmas celebrations this weekend, calling for a little more flexibility, and then it is hard core training to get ready for this exciting 08 I have paid for!!!

FINALLY

Today I finally rode my bike!!! Actually, I rode her yesterday, but that was just one time around the block with the kids. Didn't get a good feel for her. But today, I did a Spinervals DVD and put her to a good hard workout. I think a new saddle is in my future. I am going to give this one a few more rides but today it was OUCH!!! I still can't wait to get her out on the open road but I am a wimp and don't do cold and/or windy riding. Might be spring before I get her outside :(

In complete contrast to my joyful riding, yesterday I had a BAD run!!! I got up at 5:00. It was pitch black again. No stars, no moon. I was jumpy again. I wish running scared = running fast. But it didn't. When Garmin beeped one mile, I was shocked. What only one? How can that be? I almost turned around and went home. I wasn't feeling the love. I made a deal with myself. It was suppose to be a 13 mile run, but if I would just continue I would cut it short with just the 8 mile loop. 8 miles never felt so LONG!!! I even had to run past my house to hit 8 miles but I did it. It wasn't the scheduled 13 but it was better then 2.

Thursday's 5 at 5 was much better. Mike had emailed he would be there but then sent me a text that he couldn't make it. No one else had said they would be running so I just headed out when I got to the rec center. I was about 400 feet into my run when I got a text from Holly saying she was on her way. I turned around, reset Garmin, and stretched waiting for her. We had a great run. I was glad to have company on a run again. Running alone sucks (almost as much as getting old). After the run I swam 1750 yards, couldn't talk Holly into joining me. I felt good in the water. I was slow but I am really trying to get my form right before I start going to swim class again in January.

I know there are going to be some missed runs in the next few days, but I am not stressing over it. It is my Christmas present to myself, flexibility!!!

Older = Slower

Because of the USAT age up rule I have been saying I am 39 since May, but today it became official. And apparently being older has made me slower. Monday morning I got up at 4:15, after Sunday evening's Girl's Night Out, and ran 9 miles in 1:27:29. Then this morning I got up at 4:15 and ran 9 miles in 1:31:04. And that was after only half a glass of wine and going to bed at a decent hour.
Getting old sucks!!!
Well, not totally. There are the presents.
And I got the best one this year, thanks daddy!!!!
Monday evening I made the long haul up to Goodletsville to Acme Multi Sport and picked up my bike. They are totally awesome up there and my bike is SWEET!!!! I am dying to ride it. I had hoped to at least get on the trainer yesterday, but with work, going to Wal-mart to get party food and treat bags, putting together treat bags, and reading with the kids so that they could get their required AR points for the week, I just never had time. Maybe this weekend.

Out with the Old, In with the New

Got a call from the bike shop yesterday. My new bike is in!!!! I am so excited. Plus, the ebay auction on my old bike ended this morning. I am hoping to get the payment before tomorrow afternoon so that I can go after work and get the new bike and have the old bike packed and shipped to its new owner. Hope they take good care of her, she served me well.

So while I wait on my bike, I run. This morning it was COLD, WINDY, and SNOWING!!! Ok, not up north kind of snow, but there was white stuff falling from the sky. I ran my six mile loop in 56:04, 9:21 pace.

9 Years Already?!?!?

Happy Birthday to my little man. I can't believe it has been 9 years already. Don't blink!!!

Since it is my son's birthday and birthdays mean cake, I got up at 4:30 this morning to run. I was greeted by the return of December weather. Cold and wet. No problems, I had my cold gear and stayed nice and toasty. I knocked out 10 miles at just under a 10:00/mile pace.
It was my first totally alone run in the dark on the back country roads in quite some time. I was jumpy. It was PITCH. BLACK. No moon, no stars. I jumped at every sound. I was sure the coyotes were going to come eat me and no one would know where to look for the remains. But alas, I made it home safe and sound. And burned enough calories that I didn't feel too guilty stopping by Starbucks on the way to work. Guess I will skip the cake after all.

Running in the Rain

I made it through 18 weeks of training and never had to miss a run due to rain, run in the rain, or run inside due to rain. So here it is post marathon and what do I get??? Running in the rain.
At least I wasn't alone. We had a big group this morning. 8 in all. We ran the 3 mile loop and at the end it started to rain. Some quit after 3, some went out for another 4, but I just did the 2 mile loop. I got soaked. At least it was still warm, about 65 at 5am. Crazy!
After the run, I went inside to swim. I came really close to calling my run a swim but since I was soaked I wanted to at least change into something dry to drive home. So if I was going inside to change, might as well swim. I only swam 1000 yards but I am still in the "something is better then nothing" mood for swimming.

Another Step Closer

I got up at 4:30 this morning and went to the Rec Center to met Tracy for a 30 minute run. I got there a few minutes before 5 and Tim was in the parking lot getting ready to run too. We talked about his marathon in Memphis and mine in Huntsville and then Birmingham came up. A bug in his ear, now Tim is thinking about it too.

Tracy showed up right on time. We ran the loop through town. A nice social run. Then I went to toning class where the instructor really focused on abs. It was a good class and felt good. I needed it.

The problem with putting a bug in someone else ear, it make you think about it even more. So tonight, I booked a room. I have NOT signed up for the marathon but I am as good as there now. David has booked his room too. Lisa is thinking aobut it. Lana is thinking about it. I see some hill training in my future!!!!

Birmingham?!? Maybe!!!

Hey, thanks for all the positive feedback about the idea of taking on another marathon so soon. And also for the heads up about Birmingham. It might not be a sub 4 course but just to run it without dying would make me feel better about it.

This morning I got up at 5:40 and run my normal 6 mile loop. My legs felt fine. I just might be able to handle another marathon before kicking it over to Iron training.

A Bug in the Ear

Yesterday I was so tired. I didn't do much of anything and even took a nap.

I went to bed early and got up at 5:40 this morning and hit the pool. I swam 1500 yards. Actually, I really hope I counted wrong because it took about 35 minutes. I felt good swimming and think my form has really improved. Looking forward to swim class in January and getting the coach's input.

Once I got to work, I got a call from JT. He ran Huntsville this weekend too. He also had a disappointing run. He put a bug in my ear. A marathon in Jackson, Mississippi January 5th. A chance to redeem myself. I KNOW I am in the best shape of my life. But another marathon in a month. Is it possible?

Training for the Gulf Coast Half Iron officially starts Dec 23rd. I am not planning on starting until January 1st. December is suppose to be my recovery. IMFL is the focus for 08. But is it possible???

Rocket City Marathon

I got up at 4:30 and was on the road by 5.
It misted a few times on the drive down and it was already 60 degrees.
The drive wasn't bad and as soon as I got there, I got a text from Lisa offering the use of her bathroom.
Tom and Wayne also went to Lisa room and the four of us hung out for a while.
David called and we set up a meeting place.
I meet up with David and we headed to the start line.
At the start line we found Joe, Darrell, and Wes.
We looked for Lana but didn't see her.
They made all the announcements and then we were off.
The plan was a negative split, just like all my long runs.
First mile was 9:13. It sprinkled on us a little.
We found Lana in the second mile. 9:07
My Garmin started beeping before the mile markers.
Lana commented on how high her heart rate was and David said his was a little high too. I told them I knew mine was high but was afraid to check. I finally gave in. This is when I knew I was in trouble. My heart rate was already 173.
Miles 3, 4, 5, and 6 were 9:08, 9:10, 9:10, 9:23.
We saw Lana's mom and dad and Holly at mile 6.
My heart rate continued to climb and I continued to run
7-9:02, 8- 9:20, 9:07, 10-9:18, 11-9:13, 12-9:20, 13-9:42, 14-9:48, 15-9:29
My heart rate got to 186 and I sent David on. I HAD to walk and try to get control.
Lana caught back up with me while I was walking. She was not feeling good. We walked and jogged the next few miles. 16-10:50, 17-11:23, 18-10:50.
Holly and Lana's parents were just after 18. Lana gave her dad her fuel belt, she couldn't drink the OS that had worked so well on all our long runs. Holly joned us.

19-13:32
I got my heart rate back down to 144. So I started jogging again. It didn't take long and it was right back up to 174. I walked to bring it down then jogged. This is how I finished the race. 20-10:15, 21-11:39, 22-11:28, 23-13:54, 24-13:50
With a mile and a half to go, I saw Lana's parents again. Lana's mom asked if I wanted something to drink. I declined but this guy next to me asks "you giving away that Coke?" He ran over to her and took the Coke she was drinking and finished it. This is him:
25-13:04
They had to stop traffic for me as I approached the one mile to go marker. I told the police to just let them run me over. I also told the one mile to go time announcer that I didn't want to know the time. He said "You don't what to know? You don't want to know that is it" Then he tells me the time. I don't remember what it was but I knew then that this was going to be slower then my first marathon.
26-12:03
my garmin reports 0.47 miles in 5:06, 10:53.
I crossed the line and the lady gave me my medal and asked "Are you alright?, Do you want to stand to have your chip removed? Do you want some water? Do you know where the medical tent is?" I just kept nodding. I didn't think she was going to let me go. I went back to cheer Lana in and found Darrell.
I took a shower and stayed for about 30 minuted of the awards. I was tired of sitting and knew I still had a hour and a half drive home. If they pulled my name for the $500, I don't even want to know about it.
Official time-4:36:47 And I am alright with it. Not want I wanted, not what I trained for, but I was so glad to just finish.

This Is It

Well, this is it...I have followed the plan, done the training. Now it is time to put my body to the test.
I don't know if I have a sub 4 hour in me but I am going to give it my all and just be happy when I cross that finish line.

I finished up this week with a 6 mile recovery run Monday morning. 58:15, 9:43 pace. It was harder then it should have been.

Tuesday morning was a "dress rehearsal". 7 miles with 2 at marathon pace. 1:03:53, 9:08 pace. The two pace miles were done in 8:38 and 8:33. Much too fast. Hope I can do a better job of pacing myself tomorrow.

Wednesday was a rest day.

Thursday was 5 miles with 6 x 100. 46:04, 9:12 pace

This morning was my last 4 mile recovery run. I ran it at 5, just doing loops of my neighborhood. 37:36, 9:25 pace.

I am leaving in the morning at about 4:30-5:00. It is about an hour and a half to two hour drive. Start time is 8am.

I have done all I can do, now it is time to go and enjoy the race.

Final Countdown

Yesterday was my final long run before the marathon. 12 miles.
Ronnie golfed so it was after 3 before I got to run.
Lana had run hers earlier in the day and set the bar high with a 9:02 overall pace.
I started slow with the first mile in 9:31. I knew then that I wouldn't be touching Lana pace.
It was warm but windy.
I listened to Steve Runner's podcast about his latest marathon. I was heart broke, along with Steve, when he just missed his sub 4 goal. I know that feeling!
I finished my 12 in 1:50:40, 9:13 pace.

Good news...The forecast for Saturday in Huntsville has improved:
I am sure it will still change several more times but so far this one is the best I have seen.

Like Trimama, I am a holiday separatist. Thanksgiving comes AFTER Halloween and Christmas Season doesn't start until Black Friday. At my house we have to make things even a little more complicated by throwing in our anniversary and 2 birthdays. I have trained my family well. Birthday gifts come in birthday paper, unless it is a REALLY big gift there are no combo deals, and there must be a separate celebration for the birthday.
So my dad (being well trained after many years) called yesterday and wanted to know if I could bring the kids and meet him at Toys R Us in M'boro today so that my son could pick out his birthday present. He did the same thing back in July for my daughter. My son had a great time picking out Lego's.


My dad had already told me he was going to get me the HED H3 wheels I want for my birthday. Then the other night Ronnie told me that instead of wheels I should just take the money and use it toward a new bike that he would get me for my birthday/Christmas (I think that is big enough to combo).
So I email my dad with the idea. Then I started to feel guilty. We really don't need to spend that kind of money for a new bike right now. So I emailed my dad back and told him forget it, I just wanted the wheels.
Well...today my dad asked me what I was going to do about the bike/wheel deal. I told him I was unsure. I want a new bike and hope to get one someday, I just never thought Ronnie would support the idea. The problem with the wheels is they would be 650s and any new bike I get would most likely have 700s. So getting wheels says I am keeping my bike. Am I ready to make that commitment?
Then we took the kids to see Santa. I know that is not a birthday stuff, but we were in the big city so killed two birds.
While the kids were telling Santa what good kids they were, my dad wrote me a check.
I am officially shopping for new bike!!!! Happy early birthday to me!!
And just maybe, I can sell my QR kilo and use that money toward a set of HED H3's for my anniversary/birthday/Christmas combo from my husband.

Flying By

Man, this week just flew by. One week left until the main event!!! And the forecast isn't looking too good.


Wednesday I went to toning class. My abs were sore for two days afterward. I really need to do more core work, but when???

Thursday I met the group for 5 at 5 followed by a swim. We even had Lana's oldest and one of Mary Beth's sons join us. It is great to see kids that age interested in running.

Today I met Lana and Mike for a very cold ride. It was great to be outside on my bike. The sun was shining and I got warm quickly. Thanks Lana for making us climb the extra hill to get the blood really flowing.


After the ride, I hit the Starbucks. It is all Lana's fault. I don't drink coffee, I don't like it. But when we went to Florida at the first of the month, she made me stop at Starbucks on the way out of town. Then she insisted on buying me a coffee of some type. I liked it ok at the time. Then days later, I started craving one. I didn't give in until last week. Then I sent Lana a pic message blaming her. So what do I get yesterday??? A message from Lana about her coffee. Peppermint Mocha. I just had to try one. OMG!!! I think they put crack in those things. It was SO good. I am going to have to find a Starbucks addicts support group.

Speaking of Florida...today was the day. I coughed up the money and am now officially in for Ironman '08. I felt sick to my stomach the whole time I was signing up.

Last VO2 Max

Whew, am I glad that is over! As soon as I saw 3 x 1600 on the schedule, I knew I was in trouble.
I met Lana this morning at 5:00. As soon as she pulled up, she jumped into my van.
"I DON'T want to do this" she said.
"Me either!!!" I replied.
We stalled.
Finally we decided to get it over with and climbed out of the van.
The plan was 8 miles with 3 x 1600.
We ran the 2 miles from the rec center to Westwood. Lana used her code to break into the track. And then we started the 1600s.
I didn't even try to hang with Lana. I knew I couldn't and I didn't want to do myself in right off the bat.
I don't have my Garmin handy. I am in bed with my toasty warm new flannel sheets and don't want to get up to get it. So I don't have the exact splits.
I do remember that my first one was seven forty something. Then the second was seven fifty something and the last one was better then the other two.
I was so glad to be done.
The 2.5 mile back to the rec center were tough but we took them slow.

Another rest/cross training day tomorrow. I am going to class, assuming I can pull myself out of these comfy sheets. I am loving this taper.

Black Friday

Lana and David,
It won't take much effort to do better then me at this weeks 16 mile run. 2:30:12, 9:23 pace.
Good Luck,
Michele

The alarm went off at 4:00 this morning and I hit snooze. It went off again 9 minutes later and this time I got up. Not for shopping, for running. Usually we are in Memphis for Black Friday and my friend Dawn and I hit all the sales. This year Ronnie had to work so we stayed home. His working also prevented me from shopping. So running it was.
It was cold and I started slow.
I thought that the 3,3,6,6, and 2 method worked so well last week maybe I would try it again. 3 at 10, 3 at 9:45, 6 at 9:20-9:30, and 4 at marathon pace.
First three 9:58, 9:29, 9:27. Oops a little faster then planned but it is cold and I want it over.
Next three 9:20, 9:28, 9:16. If I can hold this pace the rest of the run, I am going to be happy.
The six 9:14, 9:10, 9:08, 8:59, 9:19, 9:21. About mile 10 my stomach started hurting. I had to slow down.
The last four 9:12, 10:22 (port-a-potty stop)9:09, 9:22. In that 14 mile I started worrying about my stomach. I knew there used to be a port-a-potty at a house under construction. The house is almost done and I was worried they had already hauled it off. I started praying. Please let that port-a-potty still be there and let it be somewhat clean. As I rounded the turn, I saw it. Whew, relief was in sight. I made the stop and then continued on. I felt better for the next mile but then the cramping started again and I couldn't get home fast enough.
Guess my tummy doesn't like Thanksgiving dinner, or maybe it is just my cooking!!!

Thanksgiving 10k

Well, the last minute 5/10k was a success.

We met at the rec center at 8:00. It was cold, wet and windy, but that only kept a few people away. We had a great turn out and a lot of fun.

Lana gave directions to everyone for each of the courses.

Most people went with the 5k option, an out and back to Old Stone Fort Park.


Only 5 of us toughed it out with the 10k.

Lana's dad, Flash, was the official race photographer and lead car. He did a great job! Thanks for the support Flash.

With a very official "On your mark, get set, GO!", we were off. I had set my Garmin for a 52:00 10K and was "losing" right away. I was running with Lana and we made up the time by the start of the second mile. Lana continued to press the pace but I refused to run that fast. She pulled on ahead of me.


The first loop was through town and around the square and back to the start line. Then we started the 5k loop. On the way out, I saw all the 5k-ers coming in.


I was still winning my race against Garmin, but lost some of my lead on the hill leading to the park. I made the turn around and back up the hill just outside the park. Time to pick it up. Down the hill, back on the greenway, and to the finish line.

51:25, a new PR.

I hope this can become an annual event. And maybe with a little more notice, even more people will run.

Time to eat some of those calories I burned this morning.

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

Coming Clean

Lana is going to rat me out so I thought I would come clean before she had the chance.

I met Lana and Mike at 4:40 this morning for our 4 mile run and 6 x 100 strides. When we finished the run I forgot the strides again. Lana said "Where are you going? Strides!" I walked back to the starting point and Lana asked what time it was. I said 5:30. Then she asked if I wanted to just skip the stride and go on to toning class so we wouldn't be late. I jumped on it. The shock on her face was worth it.

We went to toning class and I could tell it has been a WHILE. The weight were heavy.

After class I went to the pool and swam 100 yards. I actually felt like my form was really good for once. The time was really slow but you can't have everything.

Streak tagged me so here it goes:

Rules:-- link to your tagger and post these rules on your blog-- share 5 facts about yourself on your blog, some random, some weird-- tag 2 people at the end of your post by leaving their names as well as links to their blogs-- let them know they are TAGGED by leaving a comment on their blog.

1. I can't stand for a light switch to be up when the light is off. I will walk across the room to turn the light off by the other switch just to make sure both switches are down.

2. I have one younger brother. We are very different. As a kid I swore that my parents were part of some experiment to see how different kids could turn out even when raised by the same parents in the same house.

3. My favorite color is red and my favorite number is 4.

4. I was born in Frankfurt Germany at an army base. I am a US citizen. My birth certificate has no number on it. It was a real hassle every year in school when filling out the paperwork.

5. I was one of four Michele's in my freshman Algebra class. 3 of us spelled it with one L and only one had 2 L's. So who spells their name wrong???

I tag David and Lance

Busy

My kids have caused me to busier then usual the past several days. I am worn out.

Thank goodness it is taper. It has been hard to get the runs in but I have logged the miles required, well almost.

Sunday I met Lana at 12:30 at the Rec Center for an 8 mile run with 5 x 600. We ran 3 miles to the track at Westwood. Where Lana used her code to get us in the gate. Lana's goal was 2:45 on each of the 600s. She pulled me along and I managed to make every one (just behind her). It is great to have a super fast training partner who doesn't take no for an answer. After the 600's, we ran the two+ miles back to the Rec Center.

Monday morning I met Mike at the Rec Center at 5:00 for 5. We waited until 5:15 for Lana then took off without her. I got confused about the schedule and only ran 4. There goes my sub 4 marathon!!
After the run, we went in for a quick swim. I swam 1000 yards. Does that make up for my lost mile??

Today is a rest/cross train day. I planned on riding my trainer but now I have poured myself a glass of wine. Don't see that ride happening!

Tomorrow I am meeting Lana and Mike for a 4 mile recovery run with 6 x 100 and then going to toning class.

Thursday Lana, Holly and I had planned on doing the Blvd. Bolt, but we procrastinated so long that now it would be $50 each with no guarantee that we would get a timing chip. So Lana is kicking off the First Annual Manchester Thanksgiving Day 5 and 10K. The best part...it is FREE!!!! Everyone is invited.

Happy Thanksgiving

Lana is Trying to Kill Me

Here's how it went down:

Yesterday, I met Lana, Holly and Mike (Amy and Kim were no shows) at the Rec Center for a 4 mile recovery run and a 900 yard swim.

After the swim, Lana and I discussed the 20 miler scheduled for today. We decided to run the same 20 mile route as last time. But, she thought that maybe if we started a little later (6:00) that we would have time to eat before hand and therefore have a better run. I told her that sounded good to me, 2 hours more sleep. Later I got an email that said she forgot about her hair appointment so it would have to be 4 after all. Ugg, the first step in her attempt to do me in.

So I got up at 3:30 this morning and drove to Lana's.That's right is says 3:56 and 27 degrees!!!

After a quick discussion about the amount of clothing Lana was wearing and if it would be too much we started the run.

We started nice and slow. That is when Lana told me the plan.

I have an idea for this run. Let's break it down in 6, 6, 6 and the final 2.
Ok, fine with me. It's a mental thing we have used before. But there was more...
The first 6 let's break into 2 subsets of 3 each. The first 3 at a 10:00 pace.
I am liking this plan.
The actual turned out 10:02, 9:59, and 9:43
The second 3 we will pick up the pace just a little to 9:45.
Still ok with the plan.
The actual was 9:46, 9:27, and 9:23
The second 6 we pick it up some more to about 9:20 to 9:30
I pointed out to Lana as we started the second 6 we didn't have to pick up the pace much to reach her goal. Please, Please don't make me run faster.
The actual 9:14, 9:18, 9:20, 9:19, 9:19 and 9:21
The last 6 will be run at marathon pace.
What?!?!? Are you insane? I didn't read anything about marathon pace on the plan. I fought her the whole six. I would fall behind and then remind myself I felt fine, there was no reason I couldn't keep up. I just didn't want to! Lana fought back. She would motion me to get back up there with her and continue running at her insane pace.
The actual 9:34 (it was uphill and we had some photo ops), 9:00, 8:59, 9:02, 8:51, and 8:52.
The last 2 miles we can see where we are, how we are feeling and either finish it out at marathon pace or pick it up
I can tell you where I will be, DONE!!!
As we start this final two, Lana got just ahead of me and there was no catching up this time. I pushed just to stay a few steps behind.
The actual 8:52 and 8:49.
20 miles in 3:06:14, 9:19 pace.


So there you have it. Lana tried to kill me! Good news is, I survived. And it is downhill from here. It is taper time!!

We high fived after the finish. I noticed Lana's ponytail had ice on the ends. I hope the picture turns out and Lana posts it. It was too funny.

I rushed home, made lunches for my kids and dropped them off at school.

Returned home to take an ice bath. I was still so cold from the run that I did not relish the idea of sitting in ice. I got in the tub and started the cold water. It hurt so bad. I got craps in my feet from tensing up. I dumped the ice in and couldn't stand it. I gave up on the ice bath. I used biofreeze on my lower body instead.

New Blogger

First, I want to welcome Holly to blog land. She is Lana's sister and a runner. Maybe a triathlete this summer. Go visit her and give her some love.

This morning I met Lana at the Rec Center for a 10 mile GA run.

I don't know what is going on with the weather but it was 60 degrees. It has been cold in the mornings so this morning I was WAY over dressed. Cold gear tights were overkill. I left the vest, gloves, and ear thingy in the car. Nothing I could do about the tights at this point.

Lana wasn't feeling good before we even started.

We did a loop down Interstate Drive and through town. As we ran past the Rec Center Lana said she was done.

I was once told the hardest part about being a runner is know when NOT to run. Lana made the right choice this morning.

I made the second loop on my own. I was hot but felt good. It was a almost a mile short when I got back to the Rec Center, so I had to do an out and back on the greenway. My splits tell just how much I wanted to do that out and back.

Here they are:
10:16, 9:31, 9:27, 9:33, 9:40, 9:33, 9:28, 9:30, 9:24, and 9:51
1:36:11 overall 9:37 average pace.

Cold front is coming tonight, or so they say. Wonder if I will need cold gear tomorrow?

Alone

I don't even have to tell you that I ran alone this morning, my splits will tell you that.

Lana had to bail due to a sick kid. I was on my own.

I ran a VERY slow warm up then started the 1200's. Oh the pain!! I quickly revised my goal from Lana's 5k pace to something closer to mine. I told myself as long as I kept them under an 8:00 pace I would be happy. First one 5:57 (7:57 pace). The two mintue jog went by too fast and it was time for the second 1200. 5:56 (7:56 pace). So far so good. Again the 2 minute jog passed much too quickly. The third 1200 hurt even more and failed to meet even my revised goal. 6:05 (8:07 pace). That did me in. I jogged the 2 minutes and pushed through the last 1200. 6:06 (8:08 pace). I slowed to a jog and headed home, the long way.

10 miles w/ 4 x1200 1:39:47, 9:59/mile

Club Member

Saturday was a rest cross training day. I had BIG plans to ride. Then I got bit by the lazy bug.
The kids slept until 8:00!!!
We did nothing.
I got an email from Lana about a multi sport club that was starting out of Gran Fondo bike shop in Nashville. I text her back, if she was going I wanted to try to tag long.
So about 2 Lana calls and she is going to Nashville. I called Ronnie he was still at the golf club. So I called the sitter.
First we went to MOAB and got Lana's bike fixed. I talked to Brian about the Hed 3 wheels I am drooling over. He can get them for me. I sure hope Santa is feeling generous this year.
Then we went on to Nashville. We tried on the uniform for the club. I hate it but I bought it. When we asked if we could get shorter shorts the guy told us, "all the pro are wearing longer shorts now" that is great for the pros, they aren't short and fat.
So, we will be uniform wear club members.
This morning I had to get my run in before golf. I got up at 5:15. It was cold and I ran slow.
Tomorrow Lana will try to kill me again with 10 miles and 4 x 1200 at 4:45am! Glad the end is in sight!

A New Hill

Lana convinced me to go ahead and run with her at 4:00 this morning instead of waiting until 8, after the kids went to school.

So I met Lana in the dark and cold at the Rec Center. It has been a tough week. The goal for this 17 mile long was slow and steady, log the miles and get it done. We started out with the 12 mile route Lana had mapped out last week that we never ran.

This was no flat route. You know when a hill has a name, it is going to be a tough climb. Lana has already introduced me to jail hill, thrill hill, watermelon hill...this morning it was snob hill. I don't know the story and couldn't catch my breathe to ask.

By mile 10 my legs felt like lead. Lana kept picking up the pace and I trudged on with her. We had to wing the last part of the run. We didn't want to get too far from the Rec Center and then have to walk back but then laps of the parking lot had no appeal either. Lana's Garmin got 0.08 miles ahead of mine. I know that doesn't sound far, but when her Garmin beeped 17 miles and mine only showed 16.92 it hurt to keep running. Being the wonderful training partner that she is, Lana finished it out with me.

We stretched and got in our cars to head home. As I was backing up I noticed Lana waving. I rolled down my window and she says "9:24 pace". My mouth fell open. No wonder it hurt so bad. I checked my Garmin and sure enough it reports a 9:27 pace. I like Lana's better but considering the goal and the training this week I will happily take 9:27.

Splits look like this:
10:23, 9:29, 9:28, 9:38, 9:30, 9:23, 9:30, 9:20, 9:25, 9:06, 9:17, 9:27, 9:22, 9:21, 9:31, 9:17, and 9:06

I got home and got the kids up and moving. I had heard Casey coughing all night and asked her did she need to go to school. Both my kids are all about the perfect attendance so she assured me she could make it.

In the interest of time, I skipped the ice bath this morning. I can tell already that I am going to regret it.

I dropped the kids dropped off at school and went to Wal-mart. My least favorite place on Earth!

Once I got home and got everything put a way, I decided to take a short nap. The phone rang as soon as I got horizontal. It was the school. Casey was crying, no fever but her head hurt. I drove up to the school and she was in the office still crying. When she saw me, she starting crying harder. She had left her lunch box in the lunch room. I told her we would go get it. We walk into the lunch room to find my son crying too. I got his mess sorted out and took my daughter home.

I am waiting for the school to call me back to get Bryce. This time change has really messed these kids up.

Good thing I got that run in at 4am!!!

Reality Bites

As much as I would love to just sit back and live in the glow of the past weekend, reality steps in.

There has been kids to shuffle to gymnastics, cub scouts, cheerleading and of course school.

An appointment to view pictures of the kids, which turned out great and priced through the roof.

Working an extra day this week to help pay for said pictures.

And marathon training.

On that note...
Tuesday was rest day and some much needed recovery.
Wednesday I met Lana, Mike and Amy for a 4 mile recovery run, 6 x 100 strides and a 20 minute swim.
This morning I met Lana and Mike for a 10k "race". I went ahead and programmed my Garmin also and it is a good thing I did. Lana burned it up out there and I could NOT keep up. I was losing the race to her and Gamin dude. In the end, I managed to kick it up and finish in 49:58 and beat Garmin dude by 2 seconds.

Iron Weekend

Wow! What a weekend!

It started at 4:00 Friday morning. Lana met me at my house for our scheduled 17 mile run with 14 at planned marathon pace (9:09). We ran the first 3 miles as warm up in 9:53, 9:49, and 9:49. Then we seriously rocked the 14. 9:09, 9:04, 8:59, 8:57, 8:56, 9:07, 8:55, 8:59, 9:12, 9:02, 9:02, 8:53, 8:44, 8:32
17 miles in 2:34:59, 9:07 pace. Oh yeah!! Of course, Lana's Garmin reports a much better overall pace since hers got way ahead of mine again.

I got cleaned up and finished packing (throwing stuff in a suitcase). Holly came to my house and then we went and got Lana.


It was a long drive. I am not big on car trips. But we finally made it to Panama City, just in time for the volunteer meeting.

At the meeting we got our t-shirts and arm bands and were told to be at transition at 4:30 in the morning for body marking duty.

We went to the hotel to check in and then had a blogger meet up.

The blog racers called it a night and Lana, Holly and I went to Hooter's to meet back up with TriMama, Taconite Boy, Bigun, and Mrs. Bigun

Lot's of fun was had but we knew we had early duty in the morning so we called it a night.



Cell phone alarms started ringing at 3:30 Saturday morning. And we reported for duty at 4:30. They were already out of markers so they told us to just direct the racer to keep going toward their bikes and body markers were up and down the rows. I was feeling pretty useless, so when the lady in charge of the transition area asked for someone to help move a table I jumped into action. Once all the racers left transition for the beach we headed that way too. With our volunteer status we got up front and center for the swim. We had signed up to be strippers but they had plenty and asked us to direct the racers as they left the water. It was so awesome to be able to congratulate each of them as they came out of the water. The swim times were excellent. Only one guy missed the cut off and he was SO close.

Once everyone was out of the water we changed and met up with Trimama, Tac, and Bigun for a swim. I didn't realize back in May when I did Gulf Coast just how much I floated in the salt water and wetsuit. It was actually hard to keep my legs underwater. We swam about a mile.

Lana, Holly, and I headed back to the room. We laid on the beach for about and hour and tried to catch some z's.

Then we got cleaned up. Lana and I were ready first and went out in front of our hotel and cheered the bikers in for their last five miles. It was so cool to see the smiles on their faces. I wanted to sign up right then and there.

We drove back down to the finish area just in time to see the first racer cross the finish line. After watching a few more people we decided we had to eat. We grabbed a quick lunch and came right back down to the turn around and cheered people to the finish and on to their second lap.

We saw everyone we knew and looked for others we knew were there but had not yet met. I wasn't very good with my camera and didn't catch any good finish line pics, sorry guys. We found Trifeist after her finish for a pic.


Sunday morning we got up at 6:30 for an 8 mile run with 5 x 600. We did an out and back and it seems without any turns my Garmin reports the same distances as Lana's. The 600's went great. Lana can run a MUCH faster 5k then me but I kept up with her (well right behind) and finished the 600s in 7:30, 7:24, 7:33, 7:28, and 7:19. I admit, I was about to die but I did it!! the overall pace for all 8 miles was 9:07.

We finished the run and got in line to pull slips for next years race. They had a special line for volunteers but unfortunately they didn't have enough people working that line and it was faster to jump into the regular line.

I gave the lady the required info and she gave me my slip. I don't have to come up with the $475(gulp) until November 15-December 1.

Trimama, Tac, and IronJenny were there with their slips. We talked about where to stay and Lana and I went ahead and booked a condo at the host hotel.Lana, me,IronJenny, Taconite Boy, and TriMama


We said goodbye to our new friends and went back to the hotel for a quick shower before making the long drive home.

I am sure poor Holly got sick of iron talk on the 9 hour drive home. I hope we have her convinced to start swimming (she has the other two down pat), then watch out 25-39 year olds.

This morning was right back to reality. I met Lana at 4:30 and we ran 11 miles in the cold! It was 32 degrees. Hello winter! We just kind of winged it and had a really great run in some new areas. 1:46:40, 9:42 pace. Lots of turns so my Garmin fell way behind. I am sure Lana will be reporting a much better time.

Congrats to all the finishers Saturday. I had sure a great time watching all of you!!

Number Five is Dead

Yesterday Lana mapped us out a new route for our 12 mile run this morning. We set up to meet at the Rec Center at 4:30.
I set my alarm clock for 4:00 and got in bed about 9:30.
At 1:00, I woke up and could NOT go back to sleep. I tried but by 2:00 I had given up. I got out of bed. I did 3 loads of laundry and read blogs. I wasn't in a commenting kind of mood so sorry about the lack of those. I really wanted to be asleep.
At 4:00 I got dressed (over dressed) and drove to the Rec Center.
At 4:35 I sent Lana a text message "Coming?" and by 4:41 when I hadn't heard anything, I sent another saying that I was going home to run. I hadn't studied the route very well and a don't like new routes alone in the dark.
I ran my usual 6 mile loop twice.
I must say for the lack of sleep I was feeling pretty darn good.
I had set a bottle of Gatorade at the end of my driveway for the halfway point but as I passed by I didn't feel the need to stop.
12 miles in 1:50:20. 9:12 pace
And check out these splits:
9:44, 9:27, 9:25, 9:07, 9:06, 9:02, 9:06, 9:07, 9:06, 9:06, 9:03, 9:02
Now if I can just do that Friday when I have a 17 miler with 14 at marathon pace!!

I still hadn't heard anything from Lana so I sent her one more text asking if Number five had died. She replied yes. Turns out she had alarm clock issues.

Yesterday was the pumpkin painting contest at school. My daughter's pumpkin won grand prize for K-2. It's a fish:


My son did Sponge Bob, no prize:

Single No More

Ronnie made it home about 4:00 this afternoon!!

As I was driving Casey to gymnastics I was thinking about going out to eat. Then started thinking about my running schedule for the week. Tomorrow is a rest day. Oh shit!!! I still have to do my VO2 max run tonight!!! Guess we aren't going out to eat.

I finally made it out the door about 7pm. Schedule called for 9 miles with 5 x 1000 with 2 minute jog between.

Went like this
3 mile warm up 30:56, 10:19/mile
1000's (pace)- 7:46, 7:48, 7:52, 7:59, and 7:36
1.96 miles in finish - 19:17, 9:52/mile

Still not goal pace on the 1000s but close.

Now if I could just stay away from the Halloween candy!!!

Week 13??!! Already

Man, time is flying now.
Here it is week 13, the end of October.
Ironman Florida is Saturday and Sunday I secure a spot for next year. I am nervous just thinking about it.

Anyway, marathon training...
as a single mom, today I had to ask my neighbor for a favor. Actually I called to get her daughter to babysit but she offered to just have my kids come over and play with her son. So at about 11:00 I took my kids next door and told her husband that I was running 8 miles but would just do loops of our neighborhood. If he needed me just flag me down.
I really dreaded the idea of running loops of the neighborhood but luckily there are two slightly different ways to run a mile. So I alternated. I am sure the whole neighborhood thinks I am insane, but that isn't new. At least this time I wasn't riding my trainer in my driveway with my helmet on!!!
I started slow, but really wanted to get done as fast as possible so I wouldn't have to impose on my neighbors for long.
It was fairly windy. When the sun was out and the wind was at my back, I was comfortable in my shorts and long sleeve shirt but when the clouds took over and the wind became a head wind I was cold.
I pushed a little hard for a general aerobic run and finished the 8 miles in 1:11:35 8:57 pace. My average heart rate was 159 but maxed out at 174. A lot of that last mile was at the higher end.
My husband will finally return tomorrow but not until later in the day. So my 9 mile VO2 max run will have to be done after work sometime. I have sent Lana sleepy thoughts in hopes that she sleeps in tomorrow and has to run with me in the evening. I don't want to break and enter at the track alone!!!

17 Solo

I didn't realize just how much I have come to depend on Lana to keep me on pace. For Friday's long run were were not able to do it together for many reasons.
So Thursday night I downloaded some podcasts.
Friday, I dropped the kids off at school and started my run at 7:45. It was cold and drizzling. I didn't have a route mapped out but had an idea of where I was going.
I started the run out listening to Steve Runner's Phedippidation Cheers from the World. It really helped motivate me to keep going. Then it was Results for Beyond the Couch of Doom. Cool hearing all the race reports and more motivation to keep going.

I felt ok the whole run expect for the cold drizzle which made me miserable. It became more of a rain for miles 8-12 and that pushed me to run a little faster just so I could get it done.
When the rain slowed back to a drizzle, I slowed a little too. Mile 16 was running down Maple Springs back to my neighborhood. I got run off the road three times by cars. I had to run in the grass ditch and it slowed my pace for that mile. I made it back to my subdivision for my final mile. I had to run just past my house before Garmin beeped.
17 miles in 2:44:39. 9:41 pace. Average heart rate 152 max 166.
Splits:
9:45, 9:41, 9:37, 9:44, 9:41, 9:58, 9:49, 9:48, 9:48, 9:26, 9:34, 9:29, 9:42, 9:34, 9:39, 9:51, and 9:33

I took a ice bath and a hot shower. When I looked out the window, the sun was out. Just my luck.

It is going to be tough getting in my Sunday and Monday runs, since I will still be single. I think the neighbor is going to let the kids play at her house Sunday while I run 8. Monday's run is just going to have to wait until Ronnie gets home, whatever time that may be!

Getting ready for tomorrows 17 miles

Tune Up 10K

The plan called for a tune up race this morning. 8-15k

Well, there aren't any Thursday morning races and being a single mom right now, I couldn't even go meet Mike and Lana for their "race" at 5:15am.

So I programed my virtual training partner on my Garmin with my one and only 10K race time. 52:00 at the Franklin Fall Classic September 06. I ran alone after dropping the kids off at school.

I started out too fast determined not to let that little guy get ahead of me. My heart rate was way too high but I push on just trying to stay ahead.

Garmin finally signaled the end of the race, I won!!!! It wasn't by much, 100 feet or so, but I needed the boost badly.

Final time 51:49, 8:20 pace. My heart rate averaged 170 and peaked at 184.

I Didn't Sink

Yesterday I managed to get in a few sets of weights before I got bored. Not enough to really count.

This morning I met Lana, Tracy, Amy (Happy Birthday), Mary Beth and Mike at the Rec Center at 5:15. We did our 2 mile loop twice. We talked about the strides while running then forgot to do them!! That is the second time that has happened. I HATE messing with the plan. When I don't get a sub 4, I will blame those missed strides.

Lana, Mike and I went inside to swim after the run. This is the first time I have been in the pool in over a month. I did 800 yards of pull. It wasn't pretty. I didn't time it and I wasn't even going to count but some habits are just too hard to break.

I rushed home and got the kids dropped off at school, my husband dropped off for his golf trip, and myself to work by 8:00.

Starting Over

On September 17 I started carrying around a notebook. In this notebook I wrote down everything I ate and drank during the day and all my workouts. In the beginning I wrote everything down. I ate less, some days not enough. I lost a few pounds. Then I got lax about the notebook, not carrying with me, forgetting to write stuff down. I have gained weight.
Marathon training can not mean weight gain this time around.
Time to get back to the notebook.
Eating healthy is a lot of work.

The eating has been horrible but the workouts are still happening,even if they haven't been the best.

Saturday-rest/cross train
I finally got back on my bike. It felt great to ride again. We had a good group. It is great to see all these people riding. Going to have some new triathletes come spring. My legs felt good in the beginning but after a few hills, I started to feel the fatigue and fell to the back of the pack, behind even the beginners. Man I suck. Nothing new. I need to be spending more time in the saddle. We rode about 24 miles. Then I hurried across the street to Casey's game.

Sunday- VO2 Max (8 miles with 5 x 600)
Ronnie had golf scheduled. I promised him when I got into all this that I would try to impact his golf as little as possible. He had already skipped Saturday so I could ride. So I got up at 4:15 for my run. I don't run fast early on a Sunday morning. I tried but did not hit my intervals. 7:51, 8:08; 8:30, 8:20, 7:51. No where close to the 5k pace I was suppose to hold. Lana is giving me extra credit since I didn't run them on the "flat, springy track".

Today - 11 miles middle long run
Lana met me at my house at 4:30. I had mapped out a route Sunday and once again hit it dead on. I had no big hopes for this run, just get it done. I was way over dressed and got hot quickly. Lana was kind enough to wear her fuel belt and carry Powerade for both of us. I could have made it without, but it sure was nice to have a little boost in that second half. It took us 1:48:07 to finish, 9:50 pace.

Tomorrow is a rest/cross train day. I have high hopes of doing some weights. I have tried to fit some weights in on this program but if it isn't on the schedule, it has little hope of getting done. I am just keeping my head above water to get in the scheduled workouts.

Over the Hump

After yesterdays 5 mile recovery run, all I had left for "peak week" was a 20 miler.

So last night I mapped out a route.

It stormed pretty hard during the night. As a matter of fact, I got woke up by the storm at one point and decide if it was still raining at 4:00 I wasn't running.

When my alarm went of at 3:45, there was no rain so I got ready and went to Lana's house.

It was so dark and we got blinded by headlights several times. Then somewhere in the 8-10 mile range I ran into a tree! It had fallen over onto the road in the storm. I was running along and never even saw it. Lana and I got a great laugh about that. She tried to take a picture but it was still too dark.

With about 3 mile to go, Lana was still feeling great but I was starting to fade. I told her to go on. She never got so far ahead that I couldn't see her but she differently finished much stronger then me.

The route was perfect mileage wise. I beeped 20 miles just past Lana's street. Of course, Lana's Garmin was 7 hundredths ahead of mine but she came back and then finished with me. What a great training partner. She has a sub 4 in the bag!!

No one can say we take the easy way out either. Here is the elevation chart...

And here are my splits:

All in all, it was a good run. I wish I had felt stronger the last few miles but I still held pace. Another negative split run.

Yesterday was my wonderful husband's birthday. So it is time to go out and celebrate.

Another Weekday 12

Yesterday was a rest/cross train day. I thought about going to the pool. I ended up cleaning bathrooms and going to Wal-Mart instead. Swimming would have been more fun.

Today was another mid week long run. 12 miles. I met Lana at her house at 4:20. After a scary car encounter Monday, Lana wanted to stay in some areas with more light today. So we ran toward town and then just winged it from there. Of course my Garmin was short again, so in the end we had to run a tenth of a mile past Lana's street to get to 12 on my Garmin.
Splits look like this:
9:56, 9:47, 9:45, 9:43, 9:22, 9:41, 9:29, 9:22, 9:32, 9:34, 9:58, 9:34
for an average pace of 9:39/mile
I don't know what happened on that eleventh mile. There is no reason that I can think of that we would have had our slowest mile. I am waiting to see Lana's splits and see if that is where my Garmin lost time.
Even with that slow mile, we still had a negative split and an overall good pace. I am pleased with the run.
Tomorrow is a 5 mile recovery run and then Friday is 20.

On the Ironman front...we got our assignments. Lana and I will first be doing body marking and move on to peelers.

Start of Peak Week

It is peak week. 55 miles planned!!!

Saturday - Rest/Cross Train
I went with the rest option. I was so tired all weekend. I did clean up the back yard. Put all the pool floats away for the winter. Cut the grass.

Sunday - 6 miles recovery
I ran at 5 before Ronnie left for golf. My normal 6 mile route. It was slow and easy. 1:01:32 10:15/mile. After the six, I did the required 6 x 100 strides. By the last one my form had gone to hell. Then I spent the day as a slug.

Monday- LT run 12 miles with 7 at half mary pace
I met Lana at her house at 4:30. She had mapped us out a new route. We ran a 3 mile warm up and then picked up the pace to half mary. We had a few car issues. At one point I stopped because I was blinded by the headlights. doesn't help the pace.
We made the turn off Matt's Hollow and Lana assured me she knew where we were going. It was a spooky road but I just kept up and trusted her. Then we reached the end of the road. Now what??? We made a 180. We found the turn and knew that we were going to be long. We trudged on. When we finally got back to Lana's house, Lana's Garmin said 12.88 miles while mine said 12.83 miles. Also her splits look better then mine so I am including hers. At first, I was disappointed that I had two miles at +8:40 but using Lana's numbers there is only one. I can handle that, since it was uphill and we had to dodge cars that mile.
I am concerned about my heart rate, it seems low. I think I might need to change the battery. My Garmin reports an average heart rate of 153 and a max of 172.
Here are the splits as reported by Lana's Garmin vs my Garmin. I like her numbers better so that is what I am going with.

Lana's mine
Mile 1: 9:45 9:47
Mile 2: 9:49 9:51
Mile 3: 9:23 9:23
Mile 4: 8:31 8:30
Mile 5: 8:35 8:39
Mile 6: 8:27 8:28
Mile 7: 8:42 8:45
Mile 8: 8:34 8:41
Mile 9: 8:30 8:32
Mile 10: 8:13 8:16
Mile 11: 9:50 9:55
Mile 12: 9:32 9:30
.88 extra: 8:28(9:40/mi pace) .83 extra 8:02 (9:39/mi pace)

Ten Weeks - Done!

Ok, first off, I didn't get enough of you to cross your fingers for me Wednesday. I got put on the jury. At least it was a one day case and I hope that will be it for me for the month. We will see.

Thursday, I met Lana and Mike at the Rec Center at 5 to run 8 miles. I forgot my Garmin so have to wait on Lana to get the time/pace.

This morning, Friday, Lana met me at my house at 4:25. It was cold (44) and I was waiting on Lana in my driveway wrapped in a blanket. Thankfully the picture must not have turn out because it didn't show up on her blog today. Thanks Lana!!!
The run went very good. Felt great the whole time. 14 miles in 2:11:35. 9:24 pace complete with a negative split.
9:46, 9:32, 9:39, 9:32, 9:31, 9:17, 9:11, 9:38 (drink stop), 9:26, 9:20, 9:19, 9:06, 9:07: 9:12
Funny how Lana and I were side by side the entire time but her splits are all faster then mine!!!!

Civic Duty

OK, as if training for a marathon, working, and having two kids doesn’t make me busy enough, let’s throw in jury duty.

Yesterday I had to be at the court house at 3:00 for jury pool. I picked the kids up from school when the bell rang at 2:40 and rushed to the court house. They explained how it all works. I will be “on call” from yesterday until Nov 6th. Then they told us, “oh, by the way, we have trial tomorrow. And just to show you how random and fair this all is we are going to pick the 25 people for tomorrow’s jury pool right now” And of course whose name did they pull??? You got it, me.
So, I called my boss and told him. I am a contract employee, I don’t work, I don’t get paid. Oh, except for that $10 a day jury pay. So I am really hoping that when I show up at court today, I don’t make it to the 12 on the jury and I can go to work.

Other then the hassle of jury duty life and training have been moving forward.

Saturday- 20 mile ride
I did a short flat ride Saturday when Ronnie got home from golf at about 2:00. I averaged 16.9 mph. We went to Kim’s surprise b-day party that night so I knew I wasn’t getting up early Sunday morning for my 8 miles.

Sunday-8 mile run
It was 3:30 before Ronnie got home and HOT. I ran 8 but it was slow.

Monday- 8 mile VO2 Max
Our first VO2 max run of the program. I met Lana at the Rec Center at 4:30. We ran over to the middle school, about 3 miles, and slid through the gates to get on the track. I wish I had a picture of us trying to squeeze in that fence. We then ran 5 x 600 with 90 second jog between sets. Slid back trough the gates which was harder on tired legs and ran the 3 miles back to the Rec Center.

Tuesday-5 mile recovery
I met Tracy, Amy and Mary Beth at the Rec Center at 5:00am. Lana was a no show. We ran a 3 mile loop and then a two mile loop on the greenway and town. Amy had just run her first 7 mile run a few days before so she was tired and dropped off after the 3 miles. Mary Beth thought about dropping off too but hung in there and finished all 5 miles. It is so great to run with these girls and watch as they get stronger and faster.

Wednesday- rest cross train
Last night we went out for Lana and Amy’s birthdays. So again, no getting up early think it will be a rest day.
Guess I better get to jury duty. Cross your fingers they don’t pull my name.

Week 9 - Halfway

Today marks the end of week nine and also make us halfway done with the training program. I love the halfway mark. It just always feels good to me to get to that halfway point of anything. It’s a milestone. So I was very excited to get today’s run done and reach that halfway point.

But first, yesterday...6 miles with Lana, Mike and Joe. Recovery run. We ran a slight different route and it finally worked out to be exactly 6. We finished with 6 x 100 strides. The 6 miles took 56:38, 9:26 pace. I had some slight stomach issues again.

OK, now about the long run. On tap for today, 15 miles with 12 at marathon pace. I met Lana at the Rec Center. We got started at 4:50, Lana had some sleep vs alarm clock issues ;)
The first 3 miles of warm up were tough (10:17, 9:40, 9:35) and I questioned if I could do 12 at pace. When that third mile beeped we picked it up some. I was fine for a while but in the end I just couldn’t do it. My pace was too slow and I was so mad at myself. Lana wasn’t that far ahead but I just couldn’t catch her.
9:04, 9:05, 9:12, 9:14, 9:14, 8:55, 9:16, 9:28, 9:35, 9:33, 9:33, 9:29
Goal pace was 9:09.
I am very frustrated, I was feeling really good about the training but know I am full of doubt.
I know everyone has bad runs, how many times have I left that comment, but it is so much harder to deal with when it is your bad run. And the fact that is was a goal pace run and I failed makes me really question if I have a sub 4 in me.
Either way, I am done with week 9 and have 9 weeks left. Next week is recovery and the following week with be a 55 mile week (the highest).

Fall Break

The kids are out of school for fall break this week. We aren’t going on a trip anywhere so I am trying to make it as fun as possible while just staying here. It is taking a lot of time and energy. Therefore I am way behind on my blog.

Saturday- Old Timers Day
I was suppose to run the 5K but after the 20 mile run Friday, I decided to stick with the rest day and flake on the race. The kids and I went to the parade and Casey game. Big congrats to all my training buddies who did so well at the race.

Sunday- 6 miles recovery
I got up at about 7 and ran nice and slow and alone. I did my usual 6 mile route in 59:11, 9:53 pace.

Monday-14 mile mid-long run
Got up at 4:20 and was out the door by 4:30. Once again I was alone and this run didn’t go so well. I had tummy issues right from the start. By 11.5 I HAD to stop by the house. Then the last 2.5 seemed endless. Finally my Garmin beeped 14 and I could stop. 2:21:17, 10:06 pace. I had stomach issues the rest of the day.

Tuesday-6 mile recovery
Finally, someone to run with. I met Tracy at the Rec Center at 5. Amy was a no show. We ran the interstate road route. More stomach issues. We had to lap the parking lot to get to 6. As soon as I beeped I jumped in the car and rushed home. 1:03:48, 10:38 pace.

Wednesday-Rest/recovery
I have been reading Going Long and it stresses that if you feel tired take a rest day. So this morning I slept in. I can’t say I was really tired but the idea of sleeping in really appealed to me. Then I took the kids to the zoo. I am glad I didn’t get up and workout this morning. I don’t know if I could have kept up with the kids if I had. We zipped from one exhibit to the next. As soon as they spotted the animal, off we went. After the zoo, I drug the kids to Fleet Feet. I have blisters on the ends of every toe so thought maybe I should get refitted for shoes. They were surprised that the other Fleet Feet put me in the shoes that I am running in and they put me in a more neutral shoe. I hope they help my poor toes.

Week 8 Wrap Up

Week 8 is in the books. It was a tough week with 54 miles scheduled. Coming off the Middle Half last weekend I wasn’t sure I was going to make it. But not only did I get in the required 54 miles, I rode 13+. This is the second highest mileage week and it is DONE!!!!

So how did I wrap it up?

Thursday was 5 at 5 (that’s am). I met Tracy, Mike, Amy and Mary Beth at the Rec Center. We picked up Lana on the greenway, she was already 6 miles into her 20 mile run and looked strong.
It was a recovery run for me. 5 miles in 51:12, 10:15 pace.
We said bye to Lana as she ran off into the darkness to finish her last 9 miles on her own. She finished in 3:18:44. Great job!

Last night I downloaded 4 pod casts and mixed up 24 oz of OS drink. Lana had had success drinking it on her long run with no tummy troubles so I wanted to give it a try too.

This morning I took the kids to school early, they were getting out early so I didn’t feel as bad about it. Then I came back home and headed out on my 20 miler. Just me and Steve Runner. I have never listened to a pod cast but it was GREAT. The miles ticked off and I just listened. A pod cast is different then music for me because it really makes me listen and I don’t have time to focus on how far I have been and how much further I still have to go.
It was foggy and cool (61) when I started but it didn’t take long for the fog to burn off and the sun to come out. I got hot quickly. I didn’t drink at the start but once the sun came out I took regular sips of the OS. I had three 6 oz bottles and drank every last drop. Happy to report no tummy troubles.
I made it to 20 miles in 3:18:41, 9:56 pace. I walked the quarter of a mile home and text messaged Lana (who had text me while running) that I was DONE!!
I took and ice bath and downed a 12 oz bottle of Gatorade. After showering and dressing, I ate a Weight Watchers meal and then went and got the kids from school.
They let me take about an hour nap and I am feeling great.
Lana reply was “Good job! Its over now - have you a drink.” And I think it is time to follow her advice. I hear a cold beer calling my name.

Not as Planned

When I got up yesterday, I could walk again. I had very little soreness left. I spent the morning cleaning up the playroom so when Lana’s lunch hour was approaching I needed outside. I emailed her and told her I would be there. I got stuck at the intersection while they moved a house down the road so I was late. I hate being late but I hated it even more since Mike and Lana were both on their lunch hours. Sorry guys!!
We rode a nice short loop, 13.22 miles in 44:36. 17.8 mph average. It was a beautiful day and felt great to be on my bike.
I went back home to finish picking up before I had to get the kids from school.

This morning I got up at 4:00. On tap – 11 miles with 6 at half mary pace. I worried about this run all night. I just knew that it was going to be a challenge and it was!
I ran 3 slow miles 10:20, 9:52 and 9:51. Then I picked up the pace for the next 6. 8:46, 9:02, 8:53, 8:58, 9:28 and 9:58. That last one includes stopping right before it beeped at my driveway for water. After the drink I shuffled off for my last two miles. 10:42 and 11:10. OK, so I didn’t hit pace. I am not happy about it especially since this was my first major run alone. I need to be able to push myself and not count on having someone else push me.

It is Just Painful

I have been walking like I am 100 years old for two days.

All 3 of the other people at work asked if I had wrecked my bike again.

It is actually getting better but I have been so sore from Saturday’s race/long run.

Yesterday the schedule called for a 6 mile recovery run and 6 x 100 strides. I met Tracy at the Rec Center at 6 am. We ran the greenway through town, down Hills Chapel to Oak and back to town. I was very slow getting started and even once the stiffness went away, I could not pick up the pace. I kept telling Tracy sorry that I was ruining her run. 6 miles in 1:02:36, 10:26 pace. I had to skip the strides because once I finished running I had to potty too bad that I just had to rush home.

I had a hard time with the stairs at church. Sitting and standing are both also challenging.

This morning I met Lana at her house. She had mapped us out a new route. One part of it turned out to be pretty scary but otherwise it was good. Once again, I was very stiff starting out. I never did feeling like I got my stride right, it always felt short. The downhills were very painful, for once I was glad we had to run up Cracker Barrel hill and not down. We finished about a quarter of a mile from Lana’s and I was so glad to stop running. 12 miles in 1:59:17, 9:57 pace.

Tomorrow is a rest/cross training day. I am thinking about meeting Lana on her lunch hour for an easy ride. I am waiting to see how the legs feel before I commit.

Then I am on my own the reminder of the week. 11 miles with 6 at half mary pace, 5 mile recovery, and the first 20 miler.

The Middle Half

Whew, it was a hot one out there today. Lana and I had to turn a half marathon into a 18 miler.

Lana and I left extra early and got the race way before we needed to. We picked up our race packet and the rested in the car until 6:30.

At 6:30 we started our 2 mile run. We kept it slow. 9:49 and 10:04

We grabbed a water bottle and headed to the start line.

While looking for Mike, I found Rae. I didn’t get to say much except Hi I had Mike’s race number and had to find him before the start.

The race started and Lana and I went out a little faster than I would have liked but I was feeling good. We had to do quite a bit of weaving to find room to run. We got behind Jerry from swim class and just let him pace us.

We made it to the half way mat. I could tell Lana wasn’t feeling great. We slowed a little. I started having a lot more fun. I was able to speak again. I talked to everyone. I thanked the spectators and volunteers and cheered for the runners heading the other direction.

I held my pace and made it to the finish line. My official time was 1:55:11.

I got a bottle of water, my medal and returned my chip then walked around waiting on Lana. She wasn’t far behind but she wasn’t feeling well. She told me to go ahead and do my 3. I grabbed an orange quarter, ate it really quick, and then ran back out. I cheered the runners heading into the finish as I ran. I got some strange looks and told I was going the wrong way. I was one of “those” people today. 13.1 miles wasn’t enough for me. I turned back around and continued cheering for runners. I hit 18 miles right before the 13 mile marker. I walked back into the track. I ran into Rae and Brent and we talked for a while. I finally got another bottle of water, a diet coke, and an ice cream sandwich. Turns out I cold only eat half the ice cream but I managed to drink 2 diet cokes.

I saw Lana coming back into the track after her 3 miles. She still wasn’t feeling great.

We checked out the results. Lana won a door prize which she collected before we headed out.

I am not thrilled with my race today but I am glad to have the 18 miler in the books.
Splits:


Big congrats to Holly, Mike, Lisa, Kim R. , Kim C., Tim, Heather, Pam, Rae and of course Lana.

More Changes

We are doing some shifting of the schedule again.

Wednesday was a rest/cross train day. Originally Lana and I had wanted to ride outside that morning but it was way too dark. So I got up at 5:00 and did the Spinervals “No Slackers” DVD on my trainer. It has been a while and I wasn’t able to do the super spins at 120 rpm. Going to have to work back up to that again.

Thursday morning I met Lana, Joe and Mike at the Rec Center. Lana had mapped out a new (mostly) 7 mile loop. It was dark but a lot of the route was in town where there are street lights. Good thing since I forgot to borrow a head lamp from one of the kids. BTW, my dad told me he got them at Lowe’s for 10 bucks. I will be going to pick up one for myself soon.

Today the schedule has an 18 miler on it, but we are shifting it to tomorrow and taking a rest day today.

Tomorrow is The Middle Half, a half mary in Murfreesboro. Lana and I are going to run 2 miles before the race and 3 miles after the race to make it into an 18 miler. So ANOTHER race that I am not racing.

Then today the race director for Old Timers Day called me to see if I was doing the 5K next weekend. I told her no and she pretty much bullied me into it. I have a 20 mile run the day before that race. So once again I will be taking a public spanking.

Week 7 - Feeling Better

Monday was a recovery run. I met Lana, Mary Beth, and Gina at the Rec Center at 5:00am. We ran 2 loops of the greenway. 4 miles in 45:36, 11:23 pace. I am so excited for Mary Beth and Gina. 4 miles is a longer run for them but they did GREAT. We didn’t take it easy on them and forced them to run a couple of tough hills. Great job girls!! Maybe we can get one of you up to 13.1 by May????

Yesterday my kids got a package in the mail from my dad. Head lamps!! They were both so excited and ran all over the yard in the dark last night. I asked Casey if I could borrow hers this morning for my run and she said I could. Now I was excited.

So, I met Lana and Joe at 4:30 this morning. We ran Bushy Branch Road over to Holly’s, who put out water for us (Thanks), and back on Ragsdale. It was foggy, a cool 56, and DARK!! The head lamp worked great. No close calls with cars or inlets. I felt really good the entire run. Maybe recovery week is paying off now.
splits:
10:12, 9:29, 9:24, 9:20, 9:20, 10:20 (water and Gu), 9:07, 9:05, 8:54, 9:10, 8:56

Music City Triathlon

Last tri of the season.

The schedule called for 10 miles with 5 at half marathon pace. Lana and I replaced it with the race.

My strategy going into the race was to swim and bike at a lower effort so that I could run the 10K at 8:30 pace. No racing for me.

We got to Nashville Shores and it was cold. There was a sign at check in that said “water temp 44 degrees, wetsuits legal”. Boy was I glad I threw mine into my car at the last minute.

We did the normal packet pick up, body marking and transition setup.

Transition was very crowded and I did not like the way I had to set up. Everything was backwards.

We made our way down to the beach. They explain the swim route. Boy did it look long. We were told after the race that it was in fact long.

I was in the 8th wave.

I lined up and waded out into the water when instructed.

3,2,1..go

I was off. Like I said I was going easy. I got passed by everyone in my age group, or so I thought. Then came a wave of men. Great, I had a 3 or 4 minute lead on them. But worse was when I got passed by the wave of females. I stopped twice during the swim to look around and see if there was anyone behind me. I finally made it to the beach again. 1.5 k swim time 32:17

As I was walking, yes I said walking, up the beach to transition, I wasn’t feeling so good. A little dizzy and stomach cramps. Then I heard Ashley, my swim coach, yell for me and ring a cow bell. I thought “I can’t let her see me walking”, so I jogged the rest of the way to transition. T1 time 1:50

I ate a Gu as I got on my bike. It started raining. I was cold. I pushed on but not hard. It stopped raining at about mile 4. The stomach cramps were getting worse. I thought to myself “I wonder how bad it would hurt to crash my bike and take a DNF.” I didn’t want to have to blog about another fall. At mile 14 I threw up in my mouth. At mile 16 it started to rain again. I finally made it back to transition and TriSonq yells from behind, “I almost caught you”. I don’t even want to know what wave he started in. 40K bike time 1:14:07

The bike rack was very crowded. I had to scoot bikes over just to make room to get mine back on the rack. Guess that is the price you pay for taking so long . I had left out a Gu to take on the run but with the tummy troubles on the bike I wasn’t risking it. T2 time 1:20.

The run starts on grass. Then we moved onto some rough pavement then it was up hill. There was a spectator walking down the hill and he tells me “keep pumping those arms, and your feet will follow”. I made it to the top and said to the guy next to me “man that was hell”. I made it to the first mile marker. I had forgotten to hit the lap button so I had no idea if I was on pace or not. My toes were frozen and it wasn’t until the first mile when they thawed some that I realized I had mud between my toes. At the second mile marker I saw that I was on pace. The third mile marker I was still on pace. My stomach was feeling better so I grabbed some powerade at the turn around. I started up the hill and the girl next to me starts talking to me. She was running a rely and had on a Garmin. She told me my pace up the hill was 9:00. We talked all the way up the hill and this year I didn’t walk any of it. It was great to have the push. I drank another powerade at mile 4 and was at little off pace, due to the hill and the two walking drink stops. I got to mile 5 and saw a woman in a blue tri suit. I pushed to catch her. Finally on the down hill I passed her. We ran the final mile together pushing each other. 10K run time 53:21, 8:35 pace.

Total race time 2:44:29

I was almost a full minute behind last year’s time, but last year I had a different goal. It is hard to look at the results and see 11th out of 19 but I achieved what I set out to do. And I think that I made a fair trade on my 10 mile LT run.

Huge congrats to my training buddy-Joe had an awesome half mary on Saturday. 1:44:25. Way to go!!!