Tuesday, July 20, 2010
My First 10k
While sitting through the awards ceremony for a 5k and 10k race in Owensboro last summer, I made the decision that this year I would run the 10k. After running the 5k last year (my second 5k), I felt that I was making necessary improvements, and that just maybe I could run 6.2 miles at some point in time. It didn't hurt that in my age group (40-44) in the 10k, there were only 2 runners, so even if I had crawled across the finish line, I would have placed!
I now run 6+ miles at least once a week, so as July approached I felt ready to take on this challenge. I attempted to get some friends to sign up for the 10k; they also run at least 6 miles once a week, so I knew that it wasn't a matter of whether or not they could complete the mileage. Jennifer said that she just didn't like that distance. I must admit, this scared me because Jennifer runs half marathons, and if she didn't feel comfortable running a 10k, what made me think I could do it? My other running buddy, Jackie, just isn't really interested in racing. So, Gary and I were on our own. My goal was to finish in under an hour, and secretly, I really wanted to place.
I didn't get nervous...until the 45 minute drive to Owensboro. Then my stomach started to question my sanity. In its rumblings I heard what the hell were you thinking? It was hot outside, there were going to be fast runners, and I am no expert at running! My husband never gets nervous about a race. He just goes out, does the best he can, and is satisfied with completing the run. Hmm...
As we lined up for the race donning our numbers and our timing chips, I attempted positive self-talk: I always run 6 miles - this is no different. Just get out there and run. It doesn't matter what your time is; not many people can run 6 miles. Your stomach feels great. You get the point. The gun went off, and I took off. Gary and I don't start together, we just give each other a good-luck kiss and run our own races. I knew no one else, so I was on my own for those 6.2 miles. As usual in a race, I stayed up with the pack for the first half mile. I kept looking at my Garmin thinking you don't run this fast - you can't run this fast - you will be done by mile 2! I slowed down to a steady pace and tried to take in my surroundings. The race was flat (thank you, God!), and through a residential neighborhood. As I admired the huge old homes, my mind began to relax. I was running at about a 9 minute pace, but I didn't think I could keep it up the whole way. I just decided that I would keep that pace as long as possible, and that I was going to really push myself. Who cared if I vomited at the finish line or my muscles retaliated for the next several days? I wanted to see what my 43-year-old body could do.
Hydrate...we all know how important that is in the summer heat, but I still don't like grabbing water in a race. Until this race, I only had once, in my very first race, and that was more trouble than it was worth. So, in my crazy race thinking, as we passed by the water stations, my thoughts were here is my chance to pass some people! I know - it's stupid! I passed up water and was happy when others stopped to hydrate so that I could pass them! Nevermind that I might be passed out up the road a bit, and they could then trample my mean dehydrated butt! And for the record, I did take a sip at the last station (there was no one around who could pass me at that time!).
I did manage to pass a few runners throughout the race. In the last mile, I passed a lady, who I thought could be in my age group, and then she passed me! Ooohh...the race was really on! The finish line was on the track of a college football field, and once we hit that track I used that final burst of energy to pass her - again! At last, the finish line. I had done it! My time: 56:39! My pace: 9:09! I had never run that fast for that long. I was thrilled. I know that to those of you who are really runners, that speed is by no means competitive, but for me, it was flying!
Gary, as most of you know, has an artificial knee, and most orthopedics would say he shouldn't be running. He gets out there, though, and he works so hard. He was determined to run this race, and his goal was to run it in under 1:30:00. He ran it in 1:24:00! He said that he had such a great feeling of accomplishment when crossing that finish line, and that where he placed didn't matter in the least. He had met his goal!
For our area, Owensboro has some really great runners. Because there were cash prizes for this race, they were all there! As I wrote earlier, last year there were only 2 runners in my division; this year there were 7 (just as my luck would have it!). When I went to look at the results, my feeling of elation was quickly deflated. I was 5th out of 7! The overall female winner was from my age group and her time was 39:31! She ran at a 6:23 pace, which in my wildest competitive dreams, I could never do. That's about my sprint pace at the track, and I can only do that for about 100 meters! The runner who placed 3rd in my division ran it in 45:36, so I was 11 minutes from even placing! Eleven minutes! After my initial disappointment and whining, I was still proud of my time and effort. In the female category, I was 26/41, so I did beat some runners. And really, aren't we all winners just for getting out there in front of everyone and running 6.2 miles? How many people do you know who can do that? I know a few, but when we consider percentages of the overall population, we rock! I will go back next year, but with much different expectations.
Will I do a 10k again? Probably. It did take all week to recover, which surprised me. After a 5k I can just jump back into my normal running routine, but I didn't run well last week at all. My legs were just tired and didn't want to cooperate with my brain! My stomach was not quite right for a few days. It started hurting immediately after the race and hurt on and off all night.
Our next race is the Schweizer Fest 6 mile (the 2 mile has been sounding rather appealing in this heat!). It is a hometown race that drew over 500 runners last year. I really prefer to run out of town where no one knows me, but we have been training for this race all summer. I just have to figure out how to train my stomach to stay under control when I get nervous!
On a side note...I am really thrilled that I received the following email last night:
HI Joyce!
Just wanted to let you know that we’ll be announcing your blog name on our Traxee sites this week as a winner of the Traxee “Best Blogs By Women Runners” poll.
Thanks so much to Traxee.com and expecially to Beth Moore, who has been inspiring female runners everywhere!
Keep on Running, Friends! It does a body good! Thanks for reading!
Friday, July 16, 2010
Vacation Running
Heading off for a summer vacation? Don't let that stop you from exercising or running! I have heard people say that they are going out of town and won't be able to run for a few days or a week. Why not? I have only been running for about a year and a half, but have had the opportunity to run in some great places - which has made my trips even more memorable!
Last summer my husband and I took our daughter and granddaughter for a weekend at a bed and breakfast and to visit some caves. Although it was a short trip, I managed to work in a much-needed run. I got up early on Sunday morning and ran before the girls even thought about crawling out of bed. Not only did it give me some time to myself, it also gave me a different view of the countryside where the B&B is located. I prefer to do out-and-back runs in unfamiliar territory; I would hate to get lost out there!
Over Labor Day weekend, my husband and I, along with my sister and her husband, met our cousins in Las Vegas for some family time (okay, and a little fun too!). I was running six days a week at that time, and didn't want to miss fours days. I was a bit leary of running in Vegas by myself, so I got online and looked for a race to run. As luck would have it (appropriate for Vegas), there was a 5k that Saturday about 15 minutes outside of the city. I signed us up! You should have seen the look on my husband's face when I told him I had found a race to run - not a look of appreciation, but rather one of I can't believe you are looking for races when we are going to Vegas for the first time! We did run the race, and it was incredible! I can still picture running along with the mountains ahead of me~breathtaking. I couldn't tell you my time in that race; that wasn't the purpose. I can tell you that it is one of my fondest memories from that trip.
I love Chicago! I spent my first eleven years about a half an hour outside of the Windy City, and I still enjoy going back for a visit. My good running friend, Kim, and I had the awesome opportunity to attend the International Reading Conference in Chicago in April. I was excited about the conference, but I was really excited about the possibility of running along Lake Michigan! That's exactly what we did our first day in the city. Our hotel was a straight shot from Navy Pier, so we ran there together, and then, since Kim is much faster than I, we separated and ran on our own. It was incredible! As I ran along, to my left was the lake, to the right was the gorgeous Chicago skyline, and straight ahead was the Field Museum of History. I was in awe. Even the brisk wind off of the lake didn't deter me from enjoying every step of my run. We were able to run twice while in Chicago (and once on the hotel treadmill, but that doesn't count!). My husband was concerned about our safety when we were out running (okay, he was concerned the whole trip), but I felt completely safe the entire time. I wouldn't go out after dark and run alone, but there were a lot of runners along the lake, and I never felt uncomfortable. One just has to be smart!
This summer my husband, daughter, and I went to Virginia Beach to visit my step-daughter and her family. The trip came up at the last minute, so our budget was tight. We stayed with our family rather than paying $200/night for an Oceanfront room on the Boardwalk, but one of my goals was to run the Boardwalk. Our first morning there we ran in our daughter's neighborhood, which was a great way to see the homes and to learn how to get around. There were runners and bikers everywhere! It was very motivating to see so many people out exercising. On Saturday morning my husband and I drove to the Boardwalk area for our run. Wow! Was it ever worth the $15 we paid just to park! There were runners everywhere. It wasn't long ago that I would have just walked along in envy as I watched the runners pass me by; now I am one of them! The ocean waves were crashing in, children were playing in the sand (or whining to their parents), a couple was getting ready to get married, another older couple was walking along with a huge parrot (that kind of freaked me out when I ran by them - couldn't you just see the headline: FEMALE RUNNER ATTACKED BY PARROT ON BOARDWALK!), and I was absorbing it all. There was so much to see that the run was almost secondary.
From now on I will make running part of my vacation experience. If that means waking before everyone else, I know that it will be worth it. I can see so much more when I run rather than just driving by in the car. I can experience the sights, sounds, and smells, greet the other runners, and get to know my surroundings. I know that being somewhere unfamiliar means that I also have to be more cognizant of my safety. I live in a small town, so when I run I don't take my phone. If something happened, someone would know who I am and whom to contact. I take my phone when I run out of town, run in busy areas and when it is light, and pay attention to who is around me. I also try to look confident and in control. Looking like a potential victim could easily make me one. I am only 5 feet tall, so I definitely don't look very intimidating!
So next time you are going out of town, whether it be for business or pleasure, try to plan some time to run. You might just be surprised at what you see and what you learn!
Last summer my husband and I took our daughter and granddaughter for a weekend at a bed and breakfast and to visit some caves. Although it was a short trip, I managed to work in a much-needed run. I got up early on Sunday morning and ran before the girls even thought about crawling out of bed. Not only did it give me some time to myself, it also gave me a different view of the countryside where the B&B is located. I prefer to do out-and-back runs in unfamiliar territory; I would hate to get lost out there!
Over Labor Day weekend, my husband and I, along with my sister and her husband, met our cousins in Las Vegas for some family time (okay, and a little fun too!). I was running six days a week at that time, and didn't want to miss fours days. I was a bit leary of running in Vegas by myself, so I got online and looked for a race to run. As luck would have it (appropriate for Vegas), there was a 5k that Saturday about 15 minutes outside of the city. I signed us up! You should have seen the look on my husband's face when I told him I had found a race to run - not a look of appreciation, but rather one of I can't believe you are looking for races when we are going to Vegas for the first time! We did run the race, and it was incredible! I can still picture running along with the mountains ahead of me~breathtaking. I couldn't tell you my time in that race; that wasn't the purpose. I can tell you that it is one of my fondest memories from that trip.
I love Chicago! I spent my first eleven years about a half an hour outside of the Windy City, and I still enjoy going back for a visit. My good running friend, Kim, and I had the awesome opportunity to attend the International Reading Conference in Chicago in April. I was excited about the conference, but I was really excited about the possibility of running along Lake Michigan! That's exactly what we did our first day in the city. Our hotel was a straight shot from Navy Pier, so we ran there together, and then, since Kim is much faster than I, we separated and ran on our own. It was incredible! As I ran along, to my left was the lake, to the right was the gorgeous Chicago skyline, and straight ahead was the Field Museum of History. I was in awe. Even the brisk wind off of the lake didn't deter me from enjoying every step of my run. We were able to run twice while in Chicago (and once on the hotel treadmill, but that doesn't count!). My husband was concerned about our safety when we were out running (okay, he was concerned the whole trip), but I felt completely safe the entire time. I wouldn't go out after dark and run alone, but there were a lot of runners along the lake, and I never felt uncomfortable. One just has to be smart!
This summer my husband, daughter, and I went to Virginia Beach to visit my step-daughter and her family. The trip came up at the last minute, so our budget was tight. We stayed with our family rather than paying $200/night for an Oceanfront room on the Boardwalk, but one of my goals was to run the Boardwalk. Our first morning there we ran in our daughter's neighborhood, which was a great way to see the homes and to learn how to get around. There were runners and bikers everywhere! It was very motivating to see so many people out exercising. On Saturday morning my husband and I drove to the Boardwalk area for our run. Wow! Was it ever worth the $15 we paid just to park! There were runners everywhere. It wasn't long ago that I would have just walked along in envy as I watched the runners pass me by; now I am one of them! The ocean waves were crashing in, children were playing in the sand (or whining to their parents), a couple was getting ready to get married, another older couple was walking along with a huge parrot (that kind of freaked me out when I ran by them - couldn't you just see the headline: FEMALE RUNNER ATTACKED BY PARROT ON BOARDWALK!), and I was absorbing it all. There was so much to see that the run was almost secondary.
From now on I will make running part of my vacation experience. If that means waking before everyone else, I know that it will be worth it. I can see so much more when I run rather than just driving by in the car. I can experience the sights, sounds, and smells, greet the other runners, and get to know my surroundings. I know that being somewhere unfamiliar means that I also have to be more cognizant of my safety. I live in a small town, so when I run I don't take my phone. If something happened, someone would know who I am and whom to contact. I take my phone when I run out of town, run in busy areas and when it is light, and pay attention to who is around me. I also try to look confident and in control. Looking like a potential victim could easily make me one. I am only 5 feet tall, so I definitely don't look very intimidating!
So next time you are going out of town, whether it be for business or pleasure, try to plan some time to run. You might just be surprised at what you see and what you learn!
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Running Friends
As women, we rely upon our friends for support, encouragement, a listening ear, and laughter. My husband also provides these, but the relationships we have with other women are just different - and necessary! Although my husband will listen to my complaints about PMS, he can't truly empathize. Can a man truly understand why gaining 3 pounds of water is so devastating, or how our hormones can suddenly cause us to want to rip off the head of someone who unintentionally angers us? We are emotional, and sometimes it's just calming to spend time with someone who has felt the same way.
When I am thinking about the many ways that running has been beneficial in my life, I often think about the friends and fellow runners I have been in contact with. Running seems to help create a special bond among people. We all understand how difficult running can be, particularly when one is just beginning. We remember (or still endure) the stiff legs, the pain felt when ascending a flight of stairs, and the feeling of accomplishment when we finally ran that first mile! The first time that I experienced the full impact of the camaradarie of running was at a race in Owensboro, Kentucky. My husband and I had run the 5k, and were watching the finish of the 10k (after having gone to Cold Stone Creamery for our post-race indulgence). We were impressed by the fast finishers, but what most impressed me was when the final runner was coming toward the finish, and the crowd all started clapping and cheering for her. There was more cheering for her than for the young man who had won. She had finished, and we all knew what an accomplishment that was. I was hooked.
Shortly after I began running last year, my childhood friend Jackie started to run. We grew up on the same block, and I spent a lot of time with her family. Her sister is my age and has been one of my best friends for years. Last year, I met goals earlier than Jackie simply because I had begun a couple months before her. It was helpful because when I knew that I could run 2 miles, I pushed her to meet that mark. We ran together about 3 times a week, and I ran on my own a couple of days. Together we complained about our achy legs and feet, the heat, the absurdity of running, and anything else we could come up with. But we kept running. We still run several times a week together. I love that time with my friend; we talk about everything as we run the streets of our small town. What great therapy! Back when I started running I would see runners talking as they ran along, and I wondered how they could possibly talk when I could hardly breathe! Now people ask us the same question. This summer another friend, Jennifer, has started running with us. She is younger than the two of us, and much more athletic, but it has been great to get to know her better.
Running has strengthened my relationship with my niece Erin. She is getting ready to head off to grad school in August, but over the past year we have spent many hours together running. We have run some races together, which is something I will always cherish. Erin has such a positive attitude, and being 20 years my junior, she also has more energy! Many times she runs just a few feet in front of us, but that seems to pull us along and motivate us to run a little faster. Erin's mother - my older sister - has begun to run too. She has been walking (extremely fast) for a few years, so the transition to running is going well for her. She has had some other commitments this summer, but I hope that she gets back into running this fall.
If you haven't noticed, runners like to talk about running! Don't ask me for advice on how to get started or why I run unless you have plenty of time for my answer! There is so much to say about running. I think that most of us feel so blessed to be running that we want to share the joy with anyone who will listen. I want my friends to reap the benefits. I believe that in this sport we should pay it forward. My principal (Laura) and my good friend from school (Kim) have helped me and encouraged me for the past year. I really owe the fact that I can call myself a runner to them. They always made me feel like I could do it, and when I would get discouraged, they were right there pushing. I will always be grateful to them, and I want to do my part to do the same for others.
My husband, who is my best friend, also runs. I find this incredibly impressive because not only is he 16 years older than I, but the man also has an artificial knee! He actually started running before I did, which made it a little difficult to find a valid excuse not to run. He is not fast; he jokes about getting passed by walkers in races. He is out there - and I am very proud. We don't run together because our paces are different, but we do go to races together, and we drive to town together for our runs. We each take off on our own and meet up later. I am glad that this is something we can enjoy and work on together. Fortunately, our youngest child is 13, so if we want to go for a run, we can just go.
About running with friends...the fact is, we all have bad days. Your bad days won't likely fall on the same days as your friend's bad days. Talk ahead of time about how you want to handle that. When I have bad days where I feel like my legs are stuck in quick sand, I don't want to ruin Jackie's or Jennifer's workout - they might just feel awesome that day. Likewise, if I am having a great day, I want to push to see how far or how fast I can go. Having an understanding that it is okay to run ahead is necessary. There will be days when you both might not feel so great; then you can stop and walk together. This past Sunday was a scorcher in our area. We ran at 8:00 a.m., but it was already miserable and humid. Jackie and I took off with the intention of running at least 6 miles, but the hope of going further. By the time we had run 4 miles, I was done. I told Jackie that I was going to walk, but that she should go on. She didn't feel great either, so she also walked. We ended up walking 4 miles, and it was actually enjoyable to just walk and chat, knowing that although we weren't burning as many calories, we were still exercising. Last night Jackie, Jennifer, and I ran a 6-mile course that we will be running in a race in August. It is a tough course with a mile incline in the middle (I complain every single time I run it). We ran together until we got to the killer hill, then we each ran our own pace. We also ran our own pace for the last mile and a half. I like to try to speed up at that point, and I wanted to break an hour. We each finished at a different time, but we met at the finish line.
I have many friends who are now attempting to get started running (esp. Kelli, Annette, Lori, Kassi, and Emily), and I am so happy for them. The benefits are endless. I am in the best shape of my life, I have great new and old friends, I have more confidence, and I can call myself a runner. Share the joy with a friend!
When I am thinking about the many ways that running has been beneficial in my life, I often think about the friends and fellow runners I have been in contact with. Running seems to help create a special bond among people. We all understand how difficult running can be, particularly when one is just beginning. We remember (or still endure) the stiff legs, the pain felt when ascending a flight of stairs, and the feeling of accomplishment when we finally ran that first mile! The first time that I experienced the full impact of the camaradarie of running was at a race in Owensboro, Kentucky. My husband and I had run the 5k, and were watching the finish of the 10k (after having gone to Cold Stone Creamery for our post-race indulgence). We were impressed by the fast finishers, but what most impressed me was when the final runner was coming toward the finish, and the crowd all started clapping and cheering for her. There was more cheering for her than for the young man who had won. She had finished, and we all knew what an accomplishment that was. I was hooked.
Shortly after I began running last year, my childhood friend Jackie started to run. We grew up on the same block, and I spent a lot of time with her family. Her sister is my age and has been one of my best friends for years. Last year, I met goals earlier than Jackie simply because I had begun a couple months before her. It was helpful because when I knew that I could run 2 miles, I pushed her to meet that mark. We ran together about 3 times a week, and I ran on my own a couple of days. Together we complained about our achy legs and feet, the heat, the absurdity of running, and anything else we could come up with. But we kept running. We still run several times a week together. I love that time with my friend; we talk about everything as we run the streets of our small town. What great therapy! Back when I started running I would see runners talking as they ran along, and I wondered how they could possibly talk when I could hardly breathe! Now people ask us the same question. This summer another friend, Jennifer, has started running with us. She is younger than the two of us, and much more athletic, but it has been great to get to know her better.
Running has strengthened my relationship with my niece Erin. She is getting ready to head off to grad school in August, but over the past year we have spent many hours together running. We have run some races together, which is something I will always cherish. Erin has such a positive attitude, and being 20 years my junior, she also has more energy! Many times she runs just a few feet in front of us, but that seems to pull us along and motivate us to run a little faster. Erin's mother - my older sister - has begun to run too. She has been walking (extremely fast) for a few years, so the transition to running is going well for her. She has had some other commitments this summer, but I hope that she gets back into running this fall.
If you haven't noticed, runners like to talk about running! Don't ask me for advice on how to get started or why I run unless you have plenty of time for my answer! There is so much to say about running. I think that most of us feel so blessed to be running that we want to share the joy with anyone who will listen. I want my friends to reap the benefits. I believe that in this sport we should pay it forward. My principal (Laura) and my good friend from school (Kim) have helped me and encouraged me for the past year. I really owe the fact that I can call myself a runner to them. They always made me feel like I could do it, and when I would get discouraged, they were right there pushing. I will always be grateful to them, and I want to do my part to do the same for others.
My husband, who is my best friend, also runs. I find this incredibly impressive because not only is he 16 years older than I, but the man also has an artificial knee! He actually started running before I did, which made it a little difficult to find a valid excuse not to run. He is not fast; he jokes about getting passed by walkers in races. He is out there - and I am very proud. We don't run together because our paces are different, but we do go to races together, and we drive to town together for our runs. We each take off on our own and meet up later. I am glad that this is something we can enjoy and work on together. Fortunately, our youngest child is 13, so if we want to go for a run, we can just go.
About running with friends...the fact is, we all have bad days. Your bad days won't likely fall on the same days as your friend's bad days. Talk ahead of time about how you want to handle that. When I have bad days where I feel like my legs are stuck in quick sand, I don't want to ruin Jackie's or Jennifer's workout - they might just feel awesome that day. Likewise, if I am having a great day, I want to push to see how far or how fast I can go. Having an understanding that it is okay to run ahead is necessary. There will be days when you both might not feel so great; then you can stop and walk together. This past Sunday was a scorcher in our area. We ran at 8:00 a.m., but it was already miserable and humid. Jackie and I took off with the intention of running at least 6 miles, but the hope of going further. By the time we had run 4 miles, I was done. I told Jackie that I was going to walk, but that she should go on. She didn't feel great either, so she also walked. We ended up walking 4 miles, and it was actually enjoyable to just walk and chat, knowing that although we weren't burning as many calories, we were still exercising. Last night Jackie, Jennifer, and I ran a 6-mile course that we will be running in a race in August. It is a tough course with a mile incline in the middle (I complain every single time I run it). We ran together until we got to the killer hill, then we each ran our own pace. We also ran our own pace for the last mile and a half. I like to try to speed up at that point, and I wanted to break an hour. We each finished at a different time, but we met at the finish line.
I have many friends who are now attempting to get started running (esp. Kelli, Annette, Lori, Kassi, and Emily), and I am so happy for them. The benefits are endless. I am in the best shape of my life, I have great new and old friends, I have more confidence, and I can call myself a runner. Share the joy with a friend!
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Observations and Confessions
Heat and humidity: the two go hand in hand in Southern Indiana. It just seems that this miserable weather hit earlier than usual this year. According to my over-40 memory, June is typically warm, but not so hot that simply walking outside causes one to sweat profusely and, therefore, need an extra shower each day. I expect that kind of heat in July and August, but resent its early appearance this year. I continue to run, but have had to make some adjustments to my schedule, like rising before 6:00 (I don't do that very often), or running later in the evening. Jackie and I ran 7 miles Sunday, which is the farthest I have run since the temperatures have been in the 90s.
For those of you who are attempting running for the first time, as well as those who are seasoned runners, I want to recommend a book I recently finished: Run Like a Mother. It is written by Dimity McDowell and Sarah Bowen Shea, two moms who write it like it is! There is a chapter devoted to peeing, pooping, and passing gas. That's something that we women don't like to discuss (unlike the men in our lives!), but when running, all three can present problems. I ran by myself this past Saturday, and (though I peed several times before heading to town for my run) I had to pee most of the run. I tend to obsess, and all I could think about is peeing and how uncomfortable I was. As I ran the Greenway, I briefly considered going off into the woods, but I am really not coordinated enough to pull that off. I won't go into the other two P's, but suffice it to say that running really works on the digestive tract! Anyway, read the book. It's down to earth and easy to relate to. I love to read about running because it motivates me to continue on this journey.
I am 90% certain that the Nashville Women's Half Marathon is not going to be on my September schedule. I think it will be entirely too hot in Nashville. Since my daughter lives there, I might go visit her and try to go watch some of the race - which will probably make we wish I had given it a try! There is a smaller half in Evansville in October; that looks more promising. I have a running friend, Jennifer, who plans to run it, so we could train together (which really means she will be dragging me along!).
Now for the confessions portion...my personal road to better health has been pretty amazing (no, that's not a confession; I will get to that further down). I am able to run! It wasn't long ago that I would drive down the street, see people out running, and think about how I wished that I could do that. Do people now see me running and wish that they could be like me? That would be pretty incredible, but I would want them to know that they can run! I would want to share with them that although they can't expect to go out and run 5 miles, or even a mile, they can run a few steps, and then add a few each day. They can get out and move forward, which is much more beneficial that sitting on the couch. So, what's the confession? I am still struggling with a healthy diet. I am doing much better; fruit and yogurt are a staple in our home, and our snacks are low-cal or low fat. I just can't get into the veggies, even with the farmers' markets and roadside stands beckoning me. I still love pizza and burgers and fries and desserts and steaks and...you get the idea. My favorite post-run splurge is a large Diet Pepsi and a Little Debbie Nutty Bar. Nutrition at its best! I am gradually trying to cut back on those. After watching Oprah today about her Debt Diet series and the little things we spend money on, I started thinking about how much I spend on soft drinks and snacks in a month. I am not yet brave enough to come up with a total, but I do know that cutting out my post-run snack would help my debt diet and my regular diet. And I guess that grabbing candy bars at the check-outs probably adds up too. If you see me at the grocery store and my hand is reaching for a 3 Muskateers or a Twix, feel free to mention that you read my blog - I will get the message!
As you run, think about what words inspire you to go on - your mantra. Running is such a mental game; it helps to have positive self-talk (another confession: sometimes on a really bad run I just keep telling myself that running sucks - those runs never get any better!). When breathing is labored, my eyes are burning from sweat, and my legs feel as if they will crumble at any moment, my favorite mantra is 'If it were easy, everyone would be doing it!' Run on, Friends!
For those of you who are attempting running for the first time, as well as those who are seasoned runners, I want to recommend a book I recently finished: Run Like a Mother. It is written by Dimity McDowell and Sarah Bowen Shea, two moms who write it like it is! There is a chapter devoted to peeing, pooping, and passing gas. That's something that we women don't like to discuss (unlike the men in our lives!), but when running, all three can present problems. I ran by myself this past Saturday, and (though I peed several times before heading to town for my run) I had to pee most of the run. I tend to obsess, and all I could think about is peeing and how uncomfortable I was. As I ran the Greenway, I briefly considered going off into the woods, but I am really not coordinated enough to pull that off. I won't go into the other two P's, but suffice it to say that running really works on the digestive tract! Anyway, read the book. It's down to earth and easy to relate to. I love to read about running because it motivates me to continue on this journey.
I am 90% certain that the Nashville Women's Half Marathon is not going to be on my September schedule. I think it will be entirely too hot in Nashville. Since my daughter lives there, I might go visit her and try to go watch some of the race - which will probably make we wish I had given it a try! There is a smaller half in Evansville in October; that looks more promising. I have a running friend, Jennifer, who plans to run it, so we could train together (which really means she will be dragging me along!).
Now for the confessions portion...my personal road to better health has been pretty amazing (no, that's not a confession; I will get to that further down). I am able to run! It wasn't long ago that I would drive down the street, see people out running, and think about how I wished that I could do that. Do people now see me running and wish that they could be like me? That would be pretty incredible, but I would want them to know that they can run! I would want to share with them that although they can't expect to go out and run 5 miles, or even a mile, they can run a few steps, and then add a few each day. They can get out and move forward, which is much more beneficial that sitting on the couch. So, what's the confession? I am still struggling with a healthy diet. I am doing much better; fruit and yogurt are a staple in our home, and our snacks are low-cal or low fat. I just can't get into the veggies, even with the farmers' markets and roadside stands beckoning me. I still love pizza and burgers and fries and desserts and steaks and...you get the idea. My favorite post-run splurge is a large Diet Pepsi and a Little Debbie Nutty Bar. Nutrition at its best! I am gradually trying to cut back on those. After watching Oprah today about her Debt Diet series and the little things we spend money on, I started thinking about how much I spend on soft drinks and snacks in a month. I am not yet brave enough to come up with a total, but I do know that cutting out my post-run snack would help my debt diet and my regular diet. And I guess that grabbing candy bars at the check-outs probably adds up too. If you see me at the grocery store and my hand is reaching for a 3 Muskateers or a Twix, feel free to mention that you read my blog - I will get the message!
As you run, think about what words inspire you to go on - your mantra. Running is such a mental game; it helps to have positive self-talk (another confession: sometimes on a really bad run I just keep telling myself that running sucks - those runs never get any better!). When breathing is labored, my eyes are burning from sweat, and my legs feel as if they will crumble at any moment, my favorite mantra is 'If it were easy, everyone would be doing it!' Run on, Friends!
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Me and My Big Mouth!
How is it that one month ago I felt completely confident that I could run a half marathon by September, and today I am even more confident that I can't? One major factor is the Southern Indiana humidity that hit early this year. I just can't seem to adjust to the heat. I was running 9-11 miles, and now it is an accomplishment to run 6. It's very frustrating. After announcing on my blog that I would run the Women's Half in Nashville, I have to say that I am pretty certain that's not going to happen. On top of the issues with heat and humidity, my hip has decided to act up again. It doesn't hurt much when I run, but afterwards it is quite painful.
I hope to be able to work through the discomfort because my next goal is to complete a 10k (6.2 miles) on July 10. As long as the body holds out, I am not worried about the distance. The race is the Owensboro Classic, and there is a 5k and 10k both in the evening. Last year Gary and I ran the 5k, and it was the first fun race that we ran. The atmosphere was great, and there were a lot of runners. The course is flat, which was great for us newbies. It didn't hurt that if one ran in any race, he or she was signed up to win $1500 in a drawing!
Gary and I ran a race in Owensboro this past weekend. It was the OMHS 5k, and held in conjunction with the groundbreaking of the new hospital. One of the reasons we chose this race was that there was no entry fee, and with both of us running, fees add up quickly! Since it was free, and we got t-shirts, I know I shouldn't complain, but I am going to anyway. First, and this ISN'T a complaint, my teacher-friend, Emily, was also there to run, so she and I ran together. It is great having someone to talk with. She hasn't been running long, and told me that she would try to keep up with me for as long as she could (kinda makes me sound fast!). We took off, and we were running a an 8-minute pace, which is awesome for me! My first race I ran a 12-minute pace, and have gradually improved over the past several months). Emily stayed with me the whole time, and we were able to maintain an 8-minute average. I was excited because I knew I would PR this race - and maybe even place in my age group. Until we got to the finish line. First, the course was only 2.6 miles, which is a half mile short of a 5k. And, they didn't even keep time - at all. So, we ran 2.6 miles in 21 minutes, which is about 8.06 min/mile, and the only ones who knew were us - and my husband. I was really disappointed. There was a race in Evansville the same day, and I really wish I had run that instead.
Jackie and I are now working (along with Erin) on the Schweizer Fest 6-mile course. We are running the course every week so that we are prepared come August. I am also spending time praying for an unusually cool Schweizer Fest weekend! The course isn't bad, except for the Mozart Street hill. I have been running that hill about every week for a year, and it is still difficult. My go-to man for advice (Tom) says that I need to run it 3 times in a row, walking back down in between attempts, but once I reach the top, I am so thankful I have made it yet again that there is no way I am walking down and doing it all over!
Addison and I are also working some tennis into our summer. I love to play; I just wish more people in this area played. It used to be a pretty popular sport in Tell City, with the Schweizer Fest tourney drawing many players, but now it is difficult to get enough players just to keep it going. Gary, Addison, and I went out to hit golf balls for the first time this season. Just like last year, I suck royally. I just don't know that I have the patience to learn - or to listen to advice. I want to be able to play because it is something that we can all do together, but it is sooo hard! Addison is really a good player, so I hope that she keeps it up. In another year, she might have to choose between golf and band, and presently she is leaning toward band. Although I hope that ultimately she doesn't have to choose, I would want her to choose what makes her happy. Her dad, on the other hand, desperately hopes for golf!
Thanks for reading - now get out and move!
I hope to be able to work through the discomfort because my next goal is to complete a 10k (6.2 miles) on July 10. As long as the body holds out, I am not worried about the distance. The race is the Owensboro Classic, and there is a 5k and 10k both in the evening. Last year Gary and I ran the 5k, and it was the first fun race that we ran. The atmosphere was great, and there were a lot of runners. The course is flat, which was great for us newbies. It didn't hurt that if one ran in any race, he or she was signed up to win $1500 in a drawing!
Gary and I ran a race in Owensboro this past weekend. It was the OMHS 5k, and held in conjunction with the groundbreaking of the new hospital. One of the reasons we chose this race was that there was no entry fee, and with both of us running, fees add up quickly! Since it was free, and we got t-shirts, I know I shouldn't complain, but I am going to anyway. First, and this ISN'T a complaint, my teacher-friend, Emily, was also there to run, so she and I ran together. It is great having someone to talk with. She hasn't been running long, and told me that she would try to keep up with me for as long as she could (kinda makes me sound fast!). We took off, and we were running a an 8-minute pace, which is awesome for me! My first race I ran a 12-minute pace, and have gradually improved over the past several months). Emily stayed with me the whole time, and we were able to maintain an 8-minute average. I was excited because I knew I would PR this race - and maybe even place in my age group. Until we got to the finish line. First, the course was only 2.6 miles, which is a half mile short of a 5k. And, they didn't even keep time - at all. So, we ran 2.6 miles in 21 minutes, which is about 8.06 min/mile, and the only ones who knew were us - and my husband. I was really disappointed. There was a race in Evansville the same day, and I really wish I had run that instead.
Jackie and I are now working (along with Erin) on the Schweizer Fest 6-mile course. We are running the course every week so that we are prepared come August. I am also spending time praying for an unusually cool Schweizer Fest weekend! The course isn't bad, except for the Mozart Street hill. I have been running that hill about every week for a year, and it is still difficult. My go-to man for advice (Tom) says that I need to run it 3 times in a row, walking back down in between attempts, but once I reach the top, I am so thankful I have made it yet again that there is no way I am walking down and doing it all over!
Addison and I are also working some tennis into our summer. I love to play; I just wish more people in this area played. It used to be a pretty popular sport in Tell City, with the Schweizer Fest tourney drawing many players, but now it is difficult to get enough players just to keep it going. Gary, Addison, and I went out to hit golf balls for the first time this season. Just like last year, I suck royally. I just don't know that I have the patience to learn - or to listen to advice. I want to be able to play because it is something that we can all do together, but it is sooo hard! Addison is really a good player, so I hope that she keeps it up. In another year, she might have to choose between golf and band, and presently she is leaning toward band. Although I hope that ultimately she doesn't have to choose, I would want her to choose what makes her happy. Her dad, on the other hand, desperately hopes for golf!
Thanks for reading - now get out and move!
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Setting Goals
I talked with my students about setting goals today. I explained that setting goals can motivate us in all aspects of our lives. Our lesson was actually about saving money, and setting goals in order to establish a plan to save money, but we took the idea of goal-setting into other areas. The kids have AR goals for reading, goals for DIBELS testing, goals for their grades, and so on. Just as they have goals, I, too, have some life goals. I need them so that I stay active, motivated, and so that I continue to evolve into a better, healthier person.
When I started on this journey of training my over-40 body to run, my goals were minimal. I wanted to be able to run without passing out or vomiting, and I eventually wanted to be able to run the 2-mile race at the Schweizer Fest. As my loving husband will eagerly profess, I am a bit (well...very) neurotic. I might set a goal, but then I want to achieve that goal in record time. The 2-mile race was in August, but I reached my goal in May. So I set the next goal. I wanted to be able to run 3 miles so that I could run a 5K. By June of last year, I could check that goal off of my list. After that, I worked on my speed and adding miles. Knowing that I would never be fast, I was still determined to improve my speed in races, which I have done. I might never be competitive, but I will beat someone!
Over the past several months, Gary and some of my running friends have told me that I could complete a half marathon. I just wasn't feeling it. Running for two hours did not sound at all appealing, and taking time to train for that wasn't a priority. Then one Sunday I ran 9 miles, and the next I ran 10. Is it possible? I felt great on those two runs. After those two runs, I was able to see a dream come true, which has made me even more motivated to train.
While for most of you this might seem a rather strange dream, it was my dream, and I was thrilled to have the chance to reach it. I ran along Lake Michigan in Chicago! Having lived my early childhood years about 1/2 hour from Chicago, I spent time there as a child, and have gone back several times as an adult - but never as a runner. Kim Strobel and I went to Chicago for an International Reading Association conference, and we had time to get out and enjoy the city, so we ran. The wind off the lake was wicked, but I looked to my left and the lake was about 10 feet from me; I looked to my right and saw the amazing skyline; and up ahead was the Field Museum of History. I was in awe, and I was willing to run in that wind in order to experience a beautiful run.
So, now I am back running in Tell City, and I am planning to run the Women's Half Marathon in September in Nashville. I feel that running a women's race will be less intimidating, and it will be a fun 'girly' weekend. I am desperately trying to convince my niece Erin to run it with me. Running for 13.1 miles can get pretty lonely, and if she were with me, I have no doubt we could both finish. This past Sunday I ran 11.17 miles! That is my furthest run yet, and I lived to write about it! I am so excited to continue to add mileage and improve my running. Last year at this time I still hated running! It is amazing what our bodies can do if we are willing to challenge them.
I must tell you another amazing story: My sister, who is 11 years older than I, and has never been an athlete (she is the smart one who spent her time studying), started running a couple months ago. She has walked for exercise for a long time, and she walks fast. I think that made the transition to running a little easier for her because she has already run 5 miles! It took me months to get to that point. I am so proud of her! This Saturday she will run her first 5K, and her baby sister will be right at the finish line cheering her on!
If my sister and I can call ourselves runners, anyone can! We all started out by combining running and walking, and gradually adding a bit more running. We all know how hard it is to get started, and we appreciate the effort that everyone must put in. If you choose to run, you will find more support than you ever thought possible. There is a camaraderie like no other among runners.
Get outside...it's almost summer!
When I started on this journey of training my over-40 body to run, my goals were minimal. I wanted to be able to run without passing out or vomiting, and I eventually wanted to be able to run the 2-mile race at the Schweizer Fest. As my loving husband will eagerly profess, I am a bit (well...very) neurotic. I might set a goal, but then I want to achieve that goal in record time. The 2-mile race was in August, but I reached my goal in May. So I set the next goal. I wanted to be able to run 3 miles so that I could run a 5K. By June of last year, I could check that goal off of my list. After that, I worked on my speed and adding miles. Knowing that I would never be fast, I was still determined to improve my speed in races, which I have done. I might never be competitive, but I will beat someone!
Over the past several months, Gary and some of my running friends have told me that I could complete a half marathon. I just wasn't feeling it. Running for two hours did not sound at all appealing, and taking time to train for that wasn't a priority. Then one Sunday I ran 9 miles, and the next I ran 10. Is it possible? I felt great on those two runs. After those two runs, I was able to see a dream come true, which has made me even more motivated to train.
While for most of you this might seem a rather strange dream, it was my dream, and I was thrilled to have the chance to reach it. I ran along Lake Michigan in Chicago! Having lived my early childhood years about 1/2 hour from Chicago, I spent time there as a child, and have gone back several times as an adult - but never as a runner. Kim Strobel and I went to Chicago for an International Reading Association conference, and we had time to get out and enjoy the city, so we ran. The wind off the lake was wicked, but I looked to my left and the lake was about 10 feet from me; I looked to my right and saw the amazing skyline; and up ahead was the Field Museum of History. I was in awe, and I was willing to run in that wind in order to experience a beautiful run.
So, now I am back running in Tell City, and I am planning to run the Women's Half Marathon in September in Nashville. I feel that running a women's race will be less intimidating, and it will be a fun 'girly' weekend. I am desperately trying to convince my niece Erin to run it with me. Running for 13.1 miles can get pretty lonely, and if she were with me, I have no doubt we could both finish. This past Sunday I ran 11.17 miles! That is my furthest run yet, and I lived to write about it! I am so excited to continue to add mileage and improve my running. Last year at this time I still hated running! It is amazing what our bodies can do if we are willing to challenge them.
I must tell you another amazing story: My sister, who is 11 years older than I, and has never been an athlete (she is the smart one who spent her time studying), started running a couple months ago. She has walked for exercise for a long time, and she walks fast. I think that made the transition to running a little easier for her because she has already run 5 miles! It took me months to get to that point. I am so proud of her! This Saturday she will run her first 5K, and her baby sister will be right at the finish line cheering her on!
If my sister and I can call ourselves runners, anyone can! We all started out by combining running and walking, and gradually adding a bit more running. We all know how hard it is to get started, and we appreciate the effort that everyone must put in. If you choose to run, you will find more support than you ever thought possible. There is a camaraderie like no other among runners.
Get outside...it's almost summer!
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Just Maybe Spring is Here...
Wow...I haven't blogged since February! Either life is very dull and not really worth writing about, or I have been pretty busy, and just haven't taken the time. Since life is never dull in a house full of teenage girls, I'll go with the latter.
Before I get to how my running is progressing, there have been some other events in our lives that are worth mentioning. Foremost on that list is that my oldest daughter, Morgan, has spread her wings and moved to Nashville. No, she doesn't sing, nor does she play an instrument (she said that is what everyone down there asks when she tells them she is new in town). She just loves the city. This is my child who has always hated large cities, and swore she would never leave good ole Perry County! She began a job at Ruby Tuesdays this week, and hopefully all will go well there. With Bethany going to Indianapolis for college in August, it is very odd to imagine my girls living six hours apart, and just having Addison here with us. As I look back over their lives, their childhoods seemed to have gone by in a flash. I pray that I taught them everything they need to know, and that they are happy, and they make a difference in the lives of others.
My in-laws also relocated last month. They had been living in South Texas in the winter, and traveling the rest of the year. They sold their Texas home and bought a place in Lawrenceburg, KY, just outside of Lexington. My sister-in-law and her husband live in Lawrenceburg. It is going to be great to have them within two hours. This past weekend we were able to go down to help them do some painting.
Running! I am still keeping up with it. I am so proud that I made it through the winter, and was able to maintain my distance and actually increased my speed a little. We ran our first race of the year on March 13 in Evansville. There were over 930 runners, and a couple hundred walkers. It was a fun race, although it was cold and dreary, even misting the last mile or two. The race was 7K, which is 4.34 miles. My time was 38:17, which is an 8:59 pace. I placed 11/47 in my age group, which was really exciting! Last year at this time, I was hardly running a mile! The next race that we plan to run is in French Lick in April. It is a 5K, and a flat course that winds through the French Lick Hotel and West Baden Hotel. Running in races helps to keep me motivated, and helps me to want to improve. I know that I will never be a competitive runner, but improving is enough for me (well, I do pour over times and try to figure out what I need to do to place if possible, and I am sort of competitive, but I am still realistic).
My sister, Bobbi, is trying to add running to her exercise program. Let me just say that this lady walks about as fast as I run! She is in great shape, so I am excited to see what she can do running. She has been working on the treadmill, and ran 1 1/2 miles without stopping, so she is well on her way. We are going to meet this evening to see what she can do outside.
I have worked really hard to improve my running, get into better shape, and just be healthier, but I still struggle with eating. I do not like many veggies, and I love pizza, burgers, sweets, and candy. I just can't give them up. I have tried to cut back, and I know that I need to have better habits so that Addison will develop better habits, but gosh, it is so hard. Last night was $6 pizza night; I can't cook for that! We are buying healthier snacks (which are way more expensive), and we don't eat much fast food at all, but a person can only eat so much grilled chicken! I think that it will always be a battle for me. Thus far I have managed to stay healthy, yet have never eaten many veggies or much fruit. I am trying to eat more applesauce and drink apple juice, and we always have bananas, but I still need to add more.
We are on spring break this week. While many of my friends are on beaches in Florida, I am home. I am enjoying time at home, and just doing what I want. Addison has to have a test done on Friday to see if her gall bladder is functioning. I am anxious to get that done so that she can begin to get some relief from her constant stomach pains.
Have a terrific week, and try something new! You will be glad you did!
Before I get to how my running is progressing, there have been some other events in our lives that are worth mentioning. Foremost on that list is that my oldest daughter, Morgan, has spread her wings and moved to Nashville. No, she doesn't sing, nor does she play an instrument (she said that is what everyone down there asks when she tells them she is new in town). She just loves the city. This is my child who has always hated large cities, and swore she would never leave good ole Perry County! She began a job at Ruby Tuesdays this week, and hopefully all will go well there. With Bethany going to Indianapolis for college in August, it is very odd to imagine my girls living six hours apart, and just having Addison here with us. As I look back over their lives, their childhoods seemed to have gone by in a flash. I pray that I taught them everything they need to know, and that they are happy, and they make a difference in the lives of others.
My in-laws also relocated last month. They had been living in South Texas in the winter, and traveling the rest of the year. They sold their Texas home and bought a place in Lawrenceburg, KY, just outside of Lexington. My sister-in-law and her husband live in Lawrenceburg. It is going to be great to have them within two hours. This past weekend we were able to go down to help them do some painting.
Running! I am still keeping up with it. I am so proud that I made it through the winter, and was able to maintain my distance and actually increased my speed a little. We ran our first race of the year on March 13 in Evansville. There were over 930 runners, and a couple hundred walkers. It was a fun race, although it was cold and dreary, even misting the last mile or two. The race was 7K, which is 4.34 miles. My time was 38:17, which is an 8:59 pace. I placed 11/47 in my age group, which was really exciting! Last year at this time, I was hardly running a mile! The next race that we plan to run is in French Lick in April. It is a 5K, and a flat course that winds through the French Lick Hotel and West Baden Hotel. Running in races helps to keep me motivated, and helps me to want to improve. I know that I will never be a competitive runner, but improving is enough for me (well, I do pour over times and try to figure out what I need to do to place if possible, and I am sort of competitive, but I am still realistic).
My sister, Bobbi, is trying to add running to her exercise program. Let me just say that this lady walks about as fast as I run! She is in great shape, so I am excited to see what she can do running. She has been working on the treadmill, and ran 1 1/2 miles without stopping, so she is well on her way. We are going to meet this evening to see what she can do outside.
I have worked really hard to improve my running, get into better shape, and just be healthier, but I still struggle with eating. I do not like many veggies, and I love pizza, burgers, sweets, and candy. I just can't give them up. I have tried to cut back, and I know that I need to have better habits so that Addison will develop better habits, but gosh, it is so hard. Last night was $6 pizza night; I can't cook for that! We are buying healthier snacks (which are way more expensive), and we don't eat much fast food at all, but a person can only eat so much grilled chicken! I think that it will always be a battle for me. Thus far I have managed to stay healthy, yet have never eaten many veggies or much fruit. I am trying to eat more applesauce and drink apple juice, and we always have bananas, but I still need to add more.
We are on spring break this week. While many of my friends are on beaches in Florida, I am home. I am enjoying time at home, and just doing what I want. Addison has to have a test done on Friday to see if her gall bladder is functioning. I am anxious to get that done so that she can begin to get some relief from her constant stomach pains.
Have a terrific week, and try something new! You will be glad you did!
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