Today I am 6 days post-hysterectomy. I am feeling pretty awesome! It has been amazing how each day I feel so much better. I am still moving a bit slowly, but I am moving. Here is the run-down:
When I found out in December that I would need a hysterectomy, my first inclination was that I might as well go ahead and stop running since I was practically going to have to start over anyway. Then upon reading about the surgery, I found that I needed to be in tip-top shape, so I ran. I actually ran more the month before surgery than I had during the fall. My friends and I ran through snow and sleet and bitter temps. We ran morning runs, evening runs, and afternoon runs. Last Monday, my friend Kassi and I ran my final run together - a 5-mile presurgery run. I felt that I was in the best shape that I could be at the time. I had my classroom ready for a long-term substitute, my house was clean, my laundry was done; I was ready!
My husband and I headed for the Women's Hospital early Tuesday morning. I wasn't as nervous as I thought I would be. I felt confident in my doctors, and I knew that after a time of discomfort, I would be on the road to feeling much better. I had never had any type of surgery, so I didn't know exactly what to expect. One of my doctors - who happens to be a triathlete - came in to see me and answer last-minute questions before they walked me to the surgery room. I told him that my other doctor had said no running for six weeks, and I wanted to know what he thought. He agreed with the six weeks, but said that I could probably do the elliptical after two weeks! We have an elliptical, so that was good news. He said that would help me keep the running motion going.
Fast forward three hours, and I was being rolled into my room, a room that looked like a very nice hotel room! I slept pretty much all that afternoon and evening, but not much during the night. The nurses were in and out all night. My husband stayed with me, which made me feel much better. Though I wasn't really coherent, just knowing he was nearby was very comforting. I had been told that I would only be in the hospital 23 hours, and in the middle of that night, I couldn't even imagine going home that next morning. I hadn't even left my bed! Once the nurses got me up, and I was able to shower, improvements came quickly. I was not able to pee on my own, so if I wanted to go home I was going to have to self-cath. I wanted to go home. I had the same trouble after giving birth to my first daughter, so this didn't really upset me too much; it was just inconvenient. Around 11 that morning, we were in the car headed home.
As the days came and went, I began to feel somewhat normal again. I couldn't get outside because of the weather, so I was stuck pacing my house in order to get some walking in. I waited a couple of days to tackle the stairs. By Sunday (day 5 post-op), I was able to go to church! I was so excited to get out of the house and to see people! We live in the woods, so I don't even have neighbors to see while I am home. My daughter and I were also able to get outside and walk about a quarter mile. My goal is to walk a mile by Saturday, although as I write this it is once again snowing, so I don't know how much outside time I will get. I am a little fearful of walking on the treadmill because if I would lose my balance, I could do some damage. I have to keep reminding myself that I have a lot of stitches inside. I am registered to walk a 7k race with my sister on March 12. I felt that by signing up and paying an entry fee, I would have incentive to walk. I have to be able to walk 4.3 miles in 5 weeks! I am also going to have to be able to work off the calories from all of the great chocolate I have been receiving!
So, what does all of this have to do with running? I truly feel that because I am a runner and I am in good physical shape, my recovery has been much quicker and easier. Since surgery, I have not had one time when I just felt miserable. I was sore and tired, but the pain was not as intense as I had expected. Because I want desperately to run again, I will follow doctors' orders (though I can see that it is going to be difficult), and I will work hard to increase my strength and stamina. I really don't know how it will be when I try to run again. I know that it will take time to get back to where I was pre-surgery, and that will be challenging. I haven't set any running goals for the spring or summer. I will concentrate my efforts on just running, and on supporting my husband as he trains for his first marathon. I know that I have some awesome friends, and that my running friends have really been there for me. I know that when I am ready to get back to running, they will be right there ready to help me and to encourarage me when I get discouraged. There is just something special about running friends; they provide a whole different level of support and understanding.
Because I had a difficult time finding any information on runners who had this surgery, I will keep you posted on the progress. I do think that one can know too much (I wanted to read everything, but found it was making me more anxious. I finally decided that I needed to make this my own experience, and I quit reading.), but having appropriate information can also relieve a lot of anxiety.
Run on, Friends - and run some for me!
Monday, February 7, 2011
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
A Perfect Winter Run
While many runners take to their treadmills in the winter, I still prefer to bundle up and run outside. The first mile or so I am usually cold, but then I warm up and enjoy the brisk air as I log my weekly mileage. I have actually run more since winter settled in than I did during warmer fall days. This past weekend was no exception.
Kassi and Jackie, who are sisters, have been two of my best friends since junior high. We grew up three houses from one another, and had a well-worn path through our neighbors' yards that stretched between our houses. We three have a plethora of stories (most that we refuse to share with our children). Our childhood came before video games (unless you include TV tennis) so the neighborhood kids played outside until our parents flashed the outside light for us to go in (okay, my mom was the only light-flashing mom, but I like to imagine that other mothers were just as embarrassing). We had a lot of good times growing up in our small-town neighborhood. Even as teenagers we continued to play hide-and-seek throughout our block. Saturday, we added yet another story - this one we are proud to share!
Jackie and I have been running together since we both started trying to manage to run two miles in the spring of 2009. This past October she and I ran our first half marathon. Kassi began running in June. She is amazing. She can now run 13 miles, and is able to run with her sister and me (not that we have a fast pace!). Recently, the three of us have been getting out together when schedules allow. We planned to run Saturday morning, despite the ominous forecast of bitter cold and blowing snow. At 8:30 on this January Saturday, we, along with my husband, met at Kassi's house. Kassi and I were ready to run; Jackie tried to find a way to get out of it. My husband took off for his run, and we took off a few minutes later. I will try to adequately try to describe the conditions. It was 14 degrees (I prefer not to know what the windchill was - once you get below a certain temperature, it just doesn't matter); there was a harsh wind blowing directly in our faces; it was snowing, so the harsh wind was blasting snow into our eyes, mouths, up our noses, and into our stinging cheeks. There were patches of ice under the snow. There weren't even many cars out, let alone other insane runners. Those people who were in cars and drove by as we pressed through the wind - it was like swimming upstream in ice water - gave us that you-really-are-stupid look. What were we doing? Laughing! We knew it was crazy, but it was so much fun! We were doing something that few other people would ever even consider. Besides, Jackie has her own set of rules for running - running up a long, steep hill allows us to add an extra mile; running in bitter cold is good for another mile; snow - definitely good for a mile!
As Gary and I drove to town that morning, I thought that even if we just ran three miles, it would be a decent run considering the weather. So, we ran. We are all creatures of habit, so we went on our normal route, but hadn't really discussed how far we would go. We did make a pact that if one of us fell, we would all head back. It wasn't worth getting injured. Our town is right on the Ohio River, and this past year our town created a beautiful walking/running/biking path along the river. It has become a favorite part of our runs. By the time we reached the river, we had warmed up and begun to get into a groove. As we were running along the snow-covered path, we noticed a purse at the edge. We ran past it on the way up the path, but on the way back Kassi checked inside. She found a driver's license, credit cards, and checkbook. We all found this to be a bit eerie. The police station was just a few blocks away, so we took turns carrying the purse as we ran headed that direction. After we had safely delivered the purse (and we were certain helped solve some major crime), we decided that by doing a good deed, we deserved to add another mile.
We continued to run and chat, thoroughly enjoying our morning together. We were just about at the 5-mile mark (really - without 'Jackie Miles'), and decided that we all felt pretty good, so Jackie, who didn't really want to run in the first place, starts up a rather large hill. We could run six miles. Why not? Coming down on a different street, we realized that we would be at about six and a half miles by the time we reached Kassi's house, so why not just go 7? By this time the sun had appeared, so we began adding more blocks, and, yes, we actually ran seven miles on that bitter cold Saturday morning. With added mileage for challenges and good deeds, we figure we ran a half marathon!! What a morning!
I have to say that was one of the best runs I have had in a long time. We didn't time ourselves; we had to alter our form because of the snow and ice, and it was really just about the challenge of running in less-than-ideal conditions and not about running fast. It was about three 40-something lady runners spending time together laughing and exercising. It was about appreciating the beauty of the falling snow, cursing the wind and snow stinging our faces, feeling like young children playing outside without a care in the world. Although all of our children (between us we have 8) were inside warm homes thinking their mothers had finally lost it!
As I sit in my warm home today, my second snow day home from school, I look forward to this evening when we plan to try to get out and run six miles. We will layer up, put on our vibrant yellow or orange outerwear and reflective gear, and head out into the great outdoors. It certainly beats running on the treadmill staring out the window into our backyard! If you are contemplating winter running, try it! Layer up. I usually wear a moisture-wicking long-sleeve shirt, a cotton long-sleeve, and a fleece jacket, leggings (with shorts on top), cheap cotton Walmart gloves (throw them in the wash after wiping snot), and a hat or headband. It is invigorating to get out in the cold air and sweat!
Run on, Friends!
Kassi and Jackie, who are sisters, have been two of my best friends since junior high. We grew up three houses from one another, and had a well-worn path through our neighbors' yards that stretched between our houses. We three have a plethora of stories (most that we refuse to share with our children). Our childhood came before video games (unless you include TV tennis) so the neighborhood kids played outside until our parents flashed the outside light for us to go in (okay, my mom was the only light-flashing mom, but I like to imagine that other mothers were just as embarrassing). We had a lot of good times growing up in our small-town neighborhood. Even as teenagers we continued to play hide-and-seek throughout our block. Saturday, we added yet another story - this one we are proud to share!
Jackie and I have been running together since we both started trying to manage to run two miles in the spring of 2009. This past October she and I ran our first half marathon. Kassi began running in June. She is amazing. She can now run 13 miles, and is able to run with her sister and me (not that we have a fast pace!). Recently, the three of us have been getting out together when schedules allow. We planned to run Saturday morning, despite the ominous forecast of bitter cold and blowing snow. At 8:30 on this January Saturday, we, along with my husband, met at Kassi's house. Kassi and I were ready to run; Jackie tried to find a way to get out of it. My husband took off for his run, and we took off a few minutes later. I will try to adequately try to describe the conditions. It was 14 degrees (I prefer not to know what the windchill was - once you get below a certain temperature, it just doesn't matter); there was a harsh wind blowing directly in our faces; it was snowing, so the harsh wind was blasting snow into our eyes, mouths, up our noses, and into our stinging cheeks. There were patches of ice under the snow. There weren't even many cars out, let alone other insane runners. Those people who were in cars and drove by as we pressed through the wind - it was like swimming upstream in ice water - gave us that you-really-are-stupid look. What were we doing? Laughing! We knew it was crazy, but it was so much fun! We were doing something that few other people would ever even consider. Besides, Jackie has her own set of rules for running - running up a long, steep hill allows us to add an extra mile; running in bitter cold is good for another mile; snow - definitely good for a mile!
As Gary and I drove to town that morning, I thought that even if we just ran three miles, it would be a decent run considering the weather. So, we ran. We are all creatures of habit, so we went on our normal route, but hadn't really discussed how far we would go. We did make a pact that if one of us fell, we would all head back. It wasn't worth getting injured. Our town is right on the Ohio River, and this past year our town created a beautiful walking/running/biking path along the river. It has become a favorite part of our runs. By the time we reached the river, we had warmed up and begun to get into a groove. As we were running along the snow-covered path, we noticed a purse at the edge. We ran past it on the way up the path, but on the way back Kassi checked inside. She found a driver's license, credit cards, and checkbook. We all found this to be a bit eerie. The police station was just a few blocks away, so we took turns carrying the purse as we ran headed that direction. After we had safely delivered the purse (and we were certain helped solve some major crime), we decided that by doing a good deed, we deserved to add another mile.
We continued to run and chat, thoroughly enjoying our morning together. We were just about at the 5-mile mark (really - without 'Jackie Miles'), and decided that we all felt pretty good, so Jackie, who didn't really want to run in the first place, starts up a rather large hill. We could run six miles. Why not? Coming down on a different street, we realized that we would be at about six and a half miles by the time we reached Kassi's house, so why not just go 7? By this time the sun had appeared, so we began adding more blocks, and, yes, we actually ran seven miles on that bitter cold Saturday morning. With added mileage for challenges and good deeds, we figure we ran a half marathon!! What a morning!
I have to say that was one of the best runs I have had in a long time. We didn't time ourselves; we had to alter our form because of the snow and ice, and it was really just about the challenge of running in less-than-ideal conditions and not about running fast. It was about three 40-something lady runners spending time together laughing and exercising. It was about appreciating the beauty of the falling snow, cursing the wind and snow stinging our faces, feeling like young children playing outside without a care in the world. Although all of our children (between us we have 8) were inside warm homes thinking their mothers had finally lost it!
As I sit in my warm home today, my second snow day home from school, I look forward to this evening when we plan to try to get out and run six miles. We will layer up, put on our vibrant yellow or orange outerwear and reflective gear, and head out into the great outdoors. It certainly beats running on the treadmill staring out the window into our backyard! If you are contemplating winter running, try it! Layer up. I usually wear a moisture-wicking long-sleeve shirt, a cotton long-sleeve, and a fleece jacket, leggings (with shorts on top), cheap cotton Walmart gloves (throw them in the wash after wiping snot), and a hat or headband. It is invigorating to get out in the cold air and sweat!
Run on, Friends!
Monday, December 27, 2010
A New - Uninvited - Reason to Train
If you are not comfortable reading about 'girly' medical issues, click the 'back' button now!
As I had previously posted, since running my first half marathon, I have been somewhat of a slacker, but was beginning to get back into my groove. I love cold-weather running; the winter temperatures are refreshing. Yes, I get chilled when finishing a run because of the layer of sweat in combination with the cold air, but there is nothing like a nice hot shower to warm up! I have been determined to build back up my mileage as well as my speed. God had a different plan for me!
I went to see a doctor last week, and will be scheduled for a hysterectomy. It seems that giving birth to three children, and middle age, is causing my uterus to drop. A lot. My family doctor had told me that it had dropped substantially in the past year, and shortly after I began to experience some pretty uncomfortable pressure. Frankly, I felt like my insides were falling out! She referred me to a gyno. Because my mother had had a hysterectomy at the age of 41, this really came as no surprise. The first day of my Christmas break, my sister and mother accompanied me to my appointment.
After the exam, the doctor told me my options, and the one that made the most sense and would have the most permanent results was a hysterectomy. (another option was to be fitted for a 'device' that is worn inside and holds things in place - gross!!!!) Of course, one of my first questions was how long I would not be able to run. Her answer: 6 weeks. I can't even walk for exercise for 4 weeks! Immediately I had visions of being at home alone for over a month, and spending my time grazing in the kitchen. I had already gained about 5 pounds in the past couple of months, so the thought of gaining even more sickened me. It took some time for me to process everything. I have never had surgery, a broken bone, or been hospitalized except for when I had my daughters. This would not be fun!
I came home, and I began to read. I found a downloadable book - something like 'Have a Happy Hysterectomy'! Is that really possible? They are taking an organ out of me! Though the title is hokie, I did find some useful information. The most useful for me was that I needed to be in the best possible physical shape before surgery because that will enable me to have an easier recovery. That actually went against what I was thinking, which went something like this...well, why run now? I am not going to be able to run for 6 weeks, and will practically have to start all over anyway, so I might as well just sit on my butt until surgery. After reading about how to make this a 'happy' experience, I decided I needed to rethink my tactics. I want to heal fast, and I want to heal completely. I am going to do everything I can to make this happen.
I do not yet know the date for surgery. Because I run, my doctor wants me to have a test on my bladder so that if I need any repair work, it can be done at the same time. She said that it didn't appear that I would need it, but this test would give her a better look. As for the test, it sounds humiliating. I won't go into detail, but somehow they are going to try out different scenarios to see if I leak urine. Yikes! What if I do? Once this test is completed, the date for surgery will be set.
And so I begin to train - for my hysterectomy! It was about 19 degrees this morning, but I got out and ran 4 miles. Tomorrow morning will be just as cold, but I am going to meet my niece for a run. I have told my running buddies that I want them to make me run with them. No whining! My daughter got me a Tervis Tumbler for Christmas that has '13.1' on one side and 'Mom' on the other (in honor of my completing my first half marathon in October). I will take that to the hospital so that when I am feeling weak, I can drink from my cup and know that I am strong! I am a runner.
My husband is going to be training for an April 30 marathon. I would like to be able to run the half marathon that day, but it will all depend upon when my surgery takes place. Somehow training for surgery doesn't seem as fun as training for a big race, but I bet the results will be just as satisfying!
Of course, once the decision for surgery was made, I wanted it done - now! It would be much more convenient to get this taken care of in the winter. If my life is going to be put on hold for 6 weeks, I prefer that it be when the weather is crappy and staying indoors isn't such a sacrifice. I am, however, at their mercy. This gives me time to get into better shape, and to prepare my third graders for a long-term sub. I must say, leaving my students is much the same as leaving my children with a babysitter. No matter how good and how reliable, she isn't me. I know my students and their needs; I know who needs extra hugs, and who needs to be reminded to complete their work. I love them. I also want to get my house ready. I need to have a big stack of books to read, and plenty of yarn so that I can crochet. And I will have my computer nearby. All junk food will be removed before surgery and low-cal snacks will be hauled in by the truckload (I guess that low-cal serves no purpose if I devour them by the box!). Thank goodness that I have a super husband. I know that he will be there every step of the way.
As I train for this unwanted, but necessary, challenge, I will work hard. I wll train as if I am training for a half marathon. I will remain positive, in spite of the discomfort that I know I will experience. I will rely upon educating myself, my family, and proper preparation/training. I will run again! And, friends, I will never have to look at the calendar to see if I will be on my period at race time! Or if I will start in the middle of vacation. Ahhh...there's the up side!
As I had previously posted, since running my first half marathon, I have been somewhat of a slacker, but was beginning to get back into my groove. I love cold-weather running; the winter temperatures are refreshing. Yes, I get chilled when finishing a run because of the layer of sweat in combination with the cold air, but there is nothing like a nice hot shower to warm up! I have been determined to build back up my mileage as well as my speed. God had a different plan for me!
I went to see a doctor last week, and will be scheduled for a hysterectomy. It seems that giving birth to three children, and middle age, is causing my uterus to drop. A lot. My family doctor had told me that it had dropped substantially in the past year, and shortly after I began to experience some pretty uncomfortable pressure. Frankly, I felt like my insides were falling out! She referred me to a gyno. Because my mother had had a hysterectomy at the age of 41, this really came as no surprise. The first day of my Christmas break, my sister and mother accompanied me to my appointment.
After the exam, the doctor told me my options, and the one that made the most sense and would have the most permanent results was a hysterectomy. (another option was to be fitted for a 'device' that is worn inside and holds things in place - gross!!!!) Of course, one of my first questions was how long I would not be able to run. Her answer: 6 weeks. I can't even walk for exercise for 4 weeks! Immediately I had visions of being at home alone for over a month, and spending my time grazing in the kitchen. I had already gained about 5 pounds in the past couple of months, so the thought of gaining even more sickened me. It took some time for me to process everything. I have never had surgery, a broken bone, or been hospitalized except for when I had my daughters. This would not be fun!
I came home, and I began to read. I found a downloadable book - something like 'Have a Happy Hysterectomy'! Is that really possible? They are taking an organ out of me! Though the title is hokie, I did find some useful information. The most useful for me was that I needed to be in the best possible physical shape before surgery because that will enable me to have an easier recovery. That actually went against what I was thinking, which went something like this...well, why run now? I am not going to be able to run for 6 weeks, and will practically have to start all over anyway, so I might as well just sit on my butt until surgery. After reading about how to make this a 'happy' experience, I decided I needed to rethink my tactics. I want to heal fast, and I want to heal completely. I am going to do everything I can to make this happen.
I do not yet know the date for surgery. Because I run, my doctor wants me to have a test on my bladder so that if I need any repair work, it can be done at the same time. She said that it didn't appear that I would need it, but this test would give her a better look. As for the test, it sounds humiliating. I won't go into detail, but somehow they are going to try out different scenarios to see if I leak urine. Yikes! What if I do? Once this test is completed, the date for surgery will be set.
And so I begin to train - for my hysterectomy! It was about 19 degrees this morning, but I got out and ran 4 miles. Tomorrow morning will be just as cold, but I am going to meet my niece for a run. I have told my running buddies that I want them to make me run with them. No whining! My daughter got me a Tervis Tumbler for Christmas that has '13.1' on one side and 'Mom' on the other (in honor of my completing my first half marathon in October). I will take that to the hospital so that when I am feeling weak, I can drink from my cup and know that I am strong! I am a runner.
My husband is going to be training for an April 30 marathon. I would like to be able to run the half marathon that day, but it will all depend upon when my surgery takes place. Somehow training for surgery doesn't seem as fun as training for a big race, but I bet the results will be just as satisfying!
Of course, once the decision for surgery was made, I wanted it done - now! It would be much more convenient to get this taken care of in the winter. If my life is going to be put on hold for 6 weeks, I prefer that it be when the weather is crappy and staying indoors isn't such a sacrifice. I am, however, at their mercy. This gives me time to get into better shape, and to prepare my third graders for a long-term sub. I must say, leaving my students is much the same as leaving my children with a babysitter. No matter how good and how reliable, she isn't me. I know my students and their needs; I know who needs extra hugs, and who needs to be reminded to complete their work. I love them. I also want to get my house ready. I need to have a big stack of books to read, and plenty of yarn so that I can crochet. And I will have my computer nearby. All junk food will be removed before surgery and low-cal snacks will be hauled in by the truckload (I guess that low-cal serves no purpose if I devour them by the box!). Thank goodness that I have a super husband. I know that he will be there every step of the way.
As I train for this unwanted, but necessary, challenge, I will work hard. I wll train as if I am training for a half marathon. I will remain positive, in spite of the discomfort that I know I will experience. I will rely upon educating myself, my family, and proper preparation/training. I will run again! And, friends, I will never have to look at the calendar to see if I will be on my period at race time! Or if I will start in the middle of vacation. Ahhh...there's the up side!
Monday, December 13, 2010
The Christmas Gift
Christmas gifts come in all shapes, sizes, and costs. Many Americans spend a great deal of time and money to choose the perfect gifts for those we love. My husband and I don't shop with our children much throughout the year, and we don't buy them new clothes unless they need something, so at Christmas we tend to try to make up for that. We have been very fortunate to be able to buy what they want - within reason. We are practical, so we don't just buy anything that they want, but we try to honor reasonable requests. Over the years we have purchased and received a wide variety of gifts for Christmas. For me, one gift will always stand out.
Several years ago, I would guess 15, I received a surprise for Christmas. To most gift recipients, that might not be unusual, but because I have always been a 'snooper' (my brother taught me this skill at a young age - probably so that I wouldn't tell on him for snooping!), so surprises at Christmas have been rare. I have been known to sink as low as to tricking my girls into telling me what they bought or made me. I know, it's bad. When I was a teenager, my mother thought she had outsmarted me when she locked my gifts in her cedar chest. I knew where the key was. I am also skilled at unwrapping the end of a box and looking inside, and rewrapping it so that no one is the wiser. Is there a support group for this?
So, who actually surprised me? My grandmother! Both of my grandmothers were excellent cooks, a trait that I failed to inherit. My Grandma Greenland wrote few of her recipes down, and when she did, she seemed to forget to write down all of the necessary ingredients. Grandma Allen wrote them down. And she surprised eight out of her nine grandchildren with her compilation. The ninth was involved in her plan. Grandma spent a year writing out her recipes, and sending them to my cousin Mike in Chicago. He typed out all of the recipes, and then bound them into a cookbook. None of us had any idea that Grandma and Mike were working on an elaborate project for the grandkids. That Christmas I received the best present that I have ever received, and each year it becomes more valuable. This gift had no monetary value, yet it is priceless.
Grandma died eight years ago. Each holiday I pull out Grandma's cookbook. I haven't made everything in the book; I have my favorites. Using this cookbook as I am baking reminds me of the time I spent enjoying Grandma's treats. My favorite, and the favorite of most of my cousins, is eclairs. I learned to make them several years ago, and I make them for most holidays and any other important gathering. One year I tried to alter the recipe, but my daughters quickly scolded me for changing things up. My other favorite is peanut blossoms - peanut butter cookies with Hershey Kisses on top. I know that I can find the recipe for these cookies in most any cookbook, but using Grandma's cookbook makes baking those cookies special. I think of her every time I use her book. I wouldn't sell my book for any amount of money. Every so often I have a 'when I die' conversation with my kids. Picture their eyes rolling! I want to let them know what items in our home they need to keep should something happen to me. Grandma's cookbook is on that list. I hope that the book can hold up so that my girls can use it when baking with their children.
I have found that the things I value most are those that were given out of love. I have quilts and afghans from my grandmothers, furniture made by my great-grandfather, a table made by my father-in-law, and many other antiques passed down from both my family and my husband's family. None of it would bring a high price at auction, but we would sell none of it. Our hope is that our children will also find value in family heirlooms. I hope that I can give meaningful gifts to our children and grandchildren. My grandma never had much money. She made her own clothes, saved greeting cards for us to play with at her home, never owned a home, and remained very frugal throughout her life. Despite all of that, she gave us the most valueable gift that I have ever received: she took the time to pass down recipes that sustained her and her family. She put her love, knowledge, and even humor into this project. Thanks, Gram! You gave me a gift that I will always treasure - and taught me that a gift's value isn't in how much is spent, but in how much thought and love goes into it!
Merry Christmas, Friends!
Several years ago, I would guess 15, I received a surprise for Christmas. To most gift recipients, that might not be unusual, but because I have always been a 'snooper' (my brother taught me this skill at a young age - probably so that I wouldn't tell on him for snooping!), so surprises at Christmas have been rare. I have been known to sink as low as to tricking my girls into telling me what they bought or made me. I know, it's bad. When I was a teenager, my mother thought she had outsmarted me when she locked my gifts in her cedar chest. I knew where the key was. I am also skilled at unwrapping the end of a box and looking inside, and rewrapping it so that no one is the wiser. Is there a support group for this?
So, who actually surprised me? My grandmother! Both of my grandmothers were excellent cooks, a trait that I failed to inherit. My Grandma Greenland wrote few of her recipes down, and when she did, she seemed to forget to write down all of the necessary ingredients. Grandma Allen wrote them down. And she surprised eight out of her nine grandchildren with her compilation. The ninth was involved in her plan. Grandma spent a year writing out her recipes, and sending them to my cousin Mike in Chicago. He typed out all of the recipes, and then bound them into a cookbook. None of us had any idea that Grandma and Mike were working on an elaborate project for the grandkids. That Christmas I received the best present that I have ever received, and each year it becomes more valuable. This gift had no monetary value, yet it is priceless.
Grandma died eight years ago. Each holiday I pull out Grandma's cookbook. I haven't made everything in the book; I have my favorites. Using this cookbook as I am baking reminds me of the time I spent enjoying Grandma's treats. My favorite, and the favorite of most of my cousins, is eclairs. I learned to make them several years ago, and I make them for most holidays and any other important gathering. One year I tried to alter the recipe, but my daughters quickly scolded me for changing things up. My other favorite is peanut blossoms - peanut butter cookies with Hershey Kisses on top. I know that I can find the recipe for these cookies in most any cookbook, but using Grandma's cookbook makes baking those cookies special. I think of her every time I use her book. I wouldn't sell my book for any amount of money. Every so often I have a 'when I die' conversation with my kids. Picture their eyes rolling! I want to let them know what items in our home they need to keep should something happen to me. Grandma's cookbook is on that list. I hope that the book can hold up so that my girls can use it when baking with their children.
I have found that the things I value most are those that were given out of love. I have quilts and afghans from my grandmothers, furniture made by my great-grandfather, a table made by my father-in-law, and many other antiques passed down from both my family and my husband's family. None of it would bring a high price at auction, but we would sell none of it. Our hope is that our children will also find value in family heirlooms. I hope that I can give meaningful gifts to our children and grandchildren. My grandma never had much money. She made her own clothes, saved greeting cards for us to play with at her home, never owned a home, and remained very frugal throughout her life. Despite all of that, she gave us the most valueable gift that I have ever received: she took the time to pass down recipes that sustained her and her family. She put her love, knowledge, and even humor into this project. Thanks, Gram! You gave me a gift that I will always treasure - and taught me that a gift's value isn't in how much is spent, but in how much thought and love goes into it!
Merry Christmas, Friends!
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Life Lessons
My oldest daughter turned 22 this week. As my girls begin to branch out and become more independent, I can't help but wonder if I have taught them all they needed to learn in order to be successful, compassionate adults. What words will they remember? My sister, brother, and I all joke about the words we remember from our mom: It just isn't necessary! That was her token response whenever we inquired as to why we weren't allowed to do something or why she wouldn't buy us something.
I have spent a lot of time recently pondering what lessons I want my girls to remember. I have been creating this list in my head as I run, or when I couldn't sleep at night. Below you will find my list of random life lessons...some I have done well with, and some are works in progress! I still have much growing to do, as do many of us.
1. You must be able to take care of yourself! Never depend on a man to take care of you. Even if you choose to stay home and raise your children, be certain that you have skills and are employable. Get some type of education, and always do your best. You won't regret it. My father died when I was seven, and he had always taken care of the finances. My mom got a very fast lesson in finance and household management. We do not know what the future holds, so we must be prepared for any situation.
2. If you mess up, which we ALL do, OWN UP TO IT! Never place the blame on others. Admit you were wrong; apologize; accept the consequences for your actions; and move on. When my students do something wrong, and then get angry with those who told on them, I explain that they are the ones who messed up. The person reporting the incident did what I would expect - the right thing. We make choices every day. If we choose to do something wrong or unacceptable, then we are also choosing to accept whatever consequences go with that action.
3. If you hurt someone's feelings, whether it was intentional or not, apologize. I have had children say things that hurt others' feelings, and they say, "Well, I didn't mean to." Well, you did, and if it hurt someone, the right thing to do is to apologize. I know that many, many times I have made stupid comments, or what I meant to say came out wrong, and I have had to go back and apologize. It certainly isn't easy, but it's right.
4. Never jump on a bandwagon without knowing all of the facts, and triple checking those facts. It is very easy to believe bad things about others, and to get right in there with the crowd and hurt people. Think positive! There is no way to know what is in someone's heart or what his/her motivation is. When some gossip says, "They say..." - run the other way! Somehow no one ever knows who 'they' are.
5. One of my favorite quotes from a sermon is Don't say it if you wouldn't sign your name to it. I heard that years ago at Owensboro Christian, and I try to live by that (not always successfully, but I do try!). Think of the gossip that would be eliminated if everyone lived by that mantra! When you get ready to share something you heard, ask yourself if you would be willing to sign your name to that statement. Powerful stuff!
6. Sometimes doing the right thing is hard! Sometimes it means you will lose friends, people will criticize you, or your family will be angry with you. If you know in your heart that you have done what is right, it will work out. Eventually people will learn the truth, and those who don't and continue to criticize, aren't really worth having as friends anyway. You have been taught right from wrong - follow your heart, not the crowd.
7. Surround yourself with people who make you feel good about yourself and make you laugh. It took me many years to get to the point that I don't care that some people don't like me. It used to drive me crazy if someone didn't like me, even if it was someone I didn't really consider to be a friend. We all have little quirks, and can all be annoying. We don't have to like everyone, nor does everyone have to like us. We do have to respect everyone. If a friendship takes a lot of effort or is stressful, it isn't worth my time. Friendship should be recipricol and natural. I would rather have a few awesome friends, than a bunch of shallow ones. I am very blessed to have reconnected with friends from my years in Northern Indiana, and to have maintained friendships with people I went to school with. I have new friends from work and from running. There are always opportunities to make new friends. Just today, my youngest daughter was talking about her friend she has had since preschool. She said, "Mom, sometimes I wonder how different I would be if Luke weren't my friend." She went on to tell me that he is more outgoing than she, and that she thinks she would be much more shy if they weren't friends. Isn't it amazing that a 13 year old would have that insight.
8. When you are choosing your life mate, choose carefully. You should have similar values and goals in life. You should be treated like a queen, and likewise, you should treat your husband with the utmost respect. He should be your best friend. I am so fortunate to have someone with whom I enjoy spending my time. He makes me laugh, supports anything I try to accomplish, likes sharing time with me, and is great to my daughters. On the occasion that you do fight, have boundaries. No name-calling. Don't say something in the heat of the moment that you will later regret. Tell each other every single day that you love one another. Kiss each other every day!! Don't take one another for granted. Always, always take time for each other.
9. Don't believe everything you hear or read. Especially in the era of the Internet, people can write only what they want you to believe. Proceed with caution. When you are online or texting, always remember that what you write never really goes away. Be smart!
10. Be kind and make others glad that they know you. If you have the opportunity to make someone's day, do it! If you can make life better for a child - do it! You never know when something you say will have a major impact on a child. Make it a positive impact.
11. People are going to disapppoint you. Lots of people. If it was intentional, don't go back for more. If it was unintentional, and he or she apologizes, give it a chance. We all mess up. You, too, will disappoint people, and you will want another chance.
12. My mom always said, "Two wrongs don't make a right!" and "If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything". Wouldn't that make the world a happier place??
13. Don't wear dress socks with tennis shoes. Peanut butter on bologna is a great snack. Sometimes a girl has to be a little uncomfortable to look good. Use conditioner. Don't smoke. Exercise so that you can enjoy sweets on occasion (or daily). Don't try on hats in stores - lice! Don't let them put that sombrero on you at the Mexican Restaurant (same thing). The Sound of Music is the best movie ever. Green beans are gross, even when forced down with milk. Always wear a slip with see-thru dresses and skirts. There really is a Santa Claus. Well, this list could go on forever.
14. PRAY! PRAY! PRAY! God is the One who will always be there for you. Never lose faith, and know that He has a great plan for your life. We might not always understand, but we must always believe.
You can be whomever you choose to be. Never let someone tell you you can't do something that you have your heart set on. Set goals, then come up with a plan to meet them. If I can start running at the age of 42, and run a half marathon, you girls can do absolutely anything! Don't say I can't. Say I will try.
So, I am certain that there are many more lessons, but those are the ones that have been on my mind recently. Sometimes I wonder if my girls hear anything I say; other times I bubble over with pride when they make great choices. I haven't always made the right choices, but the choices that I have made have brought me to where I am today, and that's a pretty great place to be!
I have spent a lot of time recently pondering what lessons I want my girls to remember. I have been creating this list in my head as I run, or when I couldn't sleep at night. Below you will find my list of random life lessons...some I have done well with, and some are works in progress! I still have much growing to do, as do many of us.
1. You must be able to take care of yourself! Never depend on a man to take care of you. Even if you choose to stay home and raise your children, be certain that you have skills and are employable. Get some type of education, and always do your best. You won't regret it. My father died when I was seven, and he had always taken care of the finances. My mom got a very fast lesson in finance and household management. We do not know what the future holds, so we must be prepared for any situation.
2. If you mess up, which we ALL do, OWN UP TO IT! Never place the blame on others. Admit you were wrong; apologize; accept the consequences for your actions; and move on. When my students do something wrong, and then get angry with those who told on them, I explain that they are the ones who messed up. The person reporting the incident did what I would expect - the right thing. We make choices every day. If we choose to do something wrong or unacceptable, then we are also choosing to accept whatever consequences go with that action.
3. If you hurt someone's feelings, whether it was intentional or not, apologize. I have had children say things that hurt others' feelings, and they say, "Well, I didn't mean to." Well, you did, and if it hurt someone, the right thing to do is to apologize. I know that many, many times I have made stupid comments, or what I meant to say came out wrong, and I have had to go back and apologize. It certainly isn't easy, but it's right.
4. Never jump on a bandwagon without knowing all of the facts, and triple checking those facts. It is very easy to believe bad things about others, and to get right in there with the crowd and hurt people. Think positive! There is no way to know what is in someone's heart or what his/her motivation is. When some gossip says, "They say..." - run the other way! Somehow no one ever knows who 'they' are.
5. One of my favorite quotes from a sermon is Don't say it if you wouldn't sign your name to it. I heard that years ago at Owensboro Christian, and I try to live by that (not always successfully, but I do try!). Think of the gossip that would be eliminated if everyone lived by that mantra! When you get ready to share something you heard, ask yourself if you would be willing to sign your name to that statement. Powerful stuff!
6. Sometimes doing the right thing is hard! Sometimes it means you will lose friends, people will criticize you, or your family will be angry with you. If you know in your heart that you have done what is right, it will work out. Eventually people will learn the truth, and those who don't and continue to criticize, aren't really worth having as friends anyway. You have been taught right from wrong - follow your heart, not the crowd.
7. Surround yourself with people who make you feel good about yourself and make you laugh. It took me many years to get to the point that I don't care that some people don't like me. It used to drive me crazy if someone didn't like me, even if it was someone I didn't really consider to be a friend. We all have little quirks, and can all be annoying. We don't have to like everyone, nor does everyone have to like us. We do have to respect everyone. If a friendship takes a lot of effort or is stressful, it isn't worth my time. Friendship should be recipricol and natural. I would rather have a few awesome friends, than a bunch of shallow ones. I am very blessed to have reconnected with friends from my years in Northern Indiana, and to have maintained friendships with people I went to school with. I have new friends from work and from running. There are always opportunities to make new friends. Just today, my youngest daughter was talking about her friend she has had since preschool. She said, "Mom, sometimes I wonder how different I would be if Luke weren't my friend." She went on to tell me that he is more outgoing than she, and that she thinks she would be much more shy if they weren't friends. Isn't it amazing that a 13 year old would have that insight.
8. When you are choosing your life mate, choose carefully. You should have similar values and goals in life. You should be treated like a queen, and likewise, you should treat your husband with the utmost respect. He should be your best friend. I am so fortunate to have someone with whom I enjoy spending my time. He makes me laugh, supports anything I try to accomplish, likes sharing time with me, and is great to my daughters. On the occasion that you do fight, have boundaries. No name-calling. Don't say something in the heat of the moment that you will later regret. Tell each other every single day that you love one another. Kiss each other every day!! Don't take one another for granted. Always, always take time for each other.
9. Don't believe everything you hear or read. Especially in the era of the Internet, people can write only what they want you to believe. Proceed with caution. When you are online or texting, always remember that what you write never really goes away. Be smart!
10. Be kind and make others glad that they know you. If you have the opportunity to make someone's day, do it! If you can make life better for a child - do it! You never know when something you say will have a major impact on a child. Make it a positive impact.
11. People are going to disapppoint you. Lots of people. If it was intentional, don't go back for more. If it was unintentional, and he or she apologizes, give it a chance. We all mess up. You, too, will disappoint people, and you will want another chance.
12. My mom always said, "Two wrongs don't make a right!" and "If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything". Wouldn't that make the world a happier place??
13. Don't wear dress socks with tennis shoes. Peanut butter on bologna is a great snack. Sometimes a girl has to be a little uncomfortable to look good. Use conditioner. Don't smoke. Exercise so that you can enjoy sweets on occasion (or daily). Don't try on hats in stores - lice! Don't let them put that sombrero on you at the Mexican Restaurant (same thing). The Sound of Music is the best movie ever. Green beans are gross, even when forced down with milk. Always wear a slip with see-thru dresses and skirts. There really is a Santa Claus. Well, this list could go on forever.
14. PRAY! PRAY! PRAY! God is the One who will always be there for you. Never lose faith, and know that He has a great plan for your life. We might not always understand, but we must always believe.
You can be whomever you choose to be. Never let someone tell you you can't do something that you have your heart set on. Set goals, then come up with a plan to meet them. If I can start running at the age of 42, and run a half marathon, you girls can do absolutely anything! Don't say I can't. Say I will try.
So, I am certain that there are many more lessons, but those are the ones that have been on my mind recently. Sometimes I wonder if my girls hear anything I say; other times I bubble over with pride when they make great choices. I haven't always made the right choices, but the choices that I have made have brought me to where I am today, and that's a pretty great place to be!
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
I Met the Challenge
10-10-10...Not only is the date unusual and memorable because of the number sequence, but the date will remain important in my life because it was the day that I completed my first half marathon! My pace...10:10! My friend Jackie and I should receive a special award for running that particular pace on that particular date! What are the chances?
My journey toward that day began in the spring of 2009. When I first donned my running shoes (actually, they were tennis shoes that seemed to work at the time) and took off on our gravel road, I certainly did not envision ever completing a half marathon. Heck, at that time I only dreamed of being able to run a 2-mile local race. My boss had begun running half marathons, and though I envied her stamina, I did not believe that it was something I would be able to do; I wasn't even sure I wanted to run that far. As I kept adding miles to my runs, running a half started to seem slightly possible. Last spring I even considered running the Women's Half in Nashville that was to be held in September, but then the extreme heat hit the Midwest, and I quickly gave up on that idea. This summer my husband announced that he wanted to run the Evansville Half in October. I had friends who had run it, and I knew that it was a fun, and more importantly flat, course. If my husband thought that he could run it, I was up for trying. I talked with one of my running partners, Jackie, and she agreed to run with me - if I promised to stay with her the whole race. So, our training began in August after we had run our local 6-mile race.
We read books and magazines to get training information, but we didn't really stick with one plan. We just ran a long run each weekend, gradually increasing our mileage until we ran 13.1 miles, and ran 3-4 short runs (about 4-5 miles) during the week. We didn't do any speed work, and just ran hills a few times. There were runs that we were both questioning our ability to complete the distance. Another running partner, Jennifer, also ran with us a couple of times a week. She was also training for the half, but had more of a time goal, so she ran with a faster group too. The great thing about training with friends is that when one person is having an off day, usually the other can bring her up. There were, of course, times when we both spent our runs whining about aches and pains. Through all of the ups and downs of training, we stuck together. That's what running friends do.
The weekend of the race was a busy one. The race was on a Sunday morning. That Friday night we had to attend the high school football game where our daughter was performing in the band. On Saturday we had a band contest out of town. Then we had to be out of the house by 4:15 am the morning of the race. I am not a morning person - at all - but that morning I didn't feel too bad. I was nervous, but not like I thought I would be. Gary, Jackie, Jennifer, and I arrived in Evansville, found a parking spot, and boarded a school bus that would take us to the starting line. I usually hate the wait, but it was a pretty morning, and being with my husband and my friends made the wait go by rather quickly. I could feel the energy of the other runners in the air. Our other friends arrived, we had a picture taken, wished one another well, and went to our respective corrals. Jackie and I lined up between the 10 and 11 minute pace cards. The sun was coming up, a prayer was offered, and the gun went off. My first half marathon. I felt great! Because there were over 2000 runners, the start was slow. It took about a mile for the crowd to begin to thin out. We were then able to get into our groove and just run. Our plan was to maintain about a 10:30 pace, but we found ourselves going faster. As long as we felt good, and weren't really pushing too hard too fast, we just kept going.
This race was very well-managed, and the attention to detail was impressive. On a path through one of the parks, someone had written the names of all of the cities represented in sidewalk chalk. That might not seem that impressive, but you would be surprised at how much those little things take your mind off of the running. We ran through parks, a minor league baseball field, nice neighborhoods, not-so-nice neighborhoods, a neat Main Street area, a brick road, and a river walk. We talked about our kids, our jobs, our training. If we were really hard-core runners, we would have been focused only on running our best race and we would not have talked - we are obviously not hard-core! We wanted to have fun, and to complete the race in a decent time. Neither of us had dreams of placing; we were going to PR even if we walked! I did the motions to the chicken dance as we ran past a woman playing the song on her accordian (I had never heard the chicken dance played on an accordian - interesting!), I did little dancy moves as we went past someone blasting rap music, and I threatened to sing, but Jackie threatened bodily harm if I did that. We had fun!
As we reached mile 12, I knew we had it made. I was still feeling good, even as many runners started to walk. At that point, there was no way I was going to walk. We jogged slowly enough to be able to drink water (without too much of it going up my nose), but we never slowed to a walk. Approaching the finish line that was lined with hundreds of spectators was amazing. I knew my two youngest daughters were there somewhere, and Jennifer, who had already finished, was there supporting her two slower friends. Our race bibs had our names on them, which I kept forgetting, so random people would yell our names, and each time I would wonder how he or she knew me! My brain was occupied with trying to reach the finish line, it couldn't be bothered with such details! As we came within a few feet of the finish line, I grabbed Jackie's hand. I wanted us to complete this journey together, just as we had started. It was just as I had envisioned - amazing! Our time: 2:13:07! Seven minutes faster than anticipated. Not bad for two 40-something year old women who didn't begin running until mid-life. What an amazing feeling of accomplishment! I think that even my girls were pretty proud of their old mom!
Jackie couldn't enjoy the moment too long because her son had confirmation the same day, but Jennifer, my girls, and I went to watch my husband cross the finish line in his first marathon. This man has an artificial knee, hadn't run in years because of knee problems, and yet he worked diligently to be able to run 13.1 miles. This wife was terribly proud! As we watched other runners cross that line, I stood in awe of the array of runners - from a 13 year old girl to an 87 year old man. From over-weight middle-aged men and women, to young, buff college students. Runners truly come in all forms, and they are all working hard to meet personal goals. It was an inspiring day, and one that I will always remember. We all cheered as Gary came through the finish. We had all met our goals, and we all felt fantastic.
Will I do it again? Absolutely! I was exhausted by the time we got home (the Ihop pancakes didn't help), and I was sore the next day, but that feeling as we crossed the finish line was worth any discomfort I have had as a result. I ran a half marathon. I RAN A HALF MARATHON!!
My journey toward that day began in the spring of 2009. When I first donned my running shoes (actually, they were tennis shoes that seemed to work at the time) and took off on our gravel road, I certainly did not envision ever completing a half marathon. Heck, at that time I only dreamed of being able to run a 2-mile local race. My boss had begun running half marathons, and though I envied her stamina, I did not believe that it was something I would be able to do; I wasn't even sure I wanted to run that far. As I kept adding miles to my runs, running a half started to seem slightly possible. Last spring I even considered running the Women's Half in Nashville that was to be held in September, but then the extreme heat hit the Midwest, and I quickly gave up on that idea. This summer my husband announced that he wanted to run the Evansville Half in October. I had friends who had run it, and I knew that it was a fun, and more importantly flat, course. If my husband thought that he could run it, I was up for trying. I talked with one of my running partners, Jackie, and she agreed to run with me - if I promised to stay with her the whole race. So, our training began in August after we had run our local 6-mile race.
We read books and magazines to get training information, but we didn't really stick with one plan. We just ran a long run each weekend, gradually increasing our mileage until we ran 13.1 miles, and ran 3-4 short runs (about 4-5 miles) during the week. We didn't do any speed work, and just ran hills a few times. There were runs that we were both questioning our ability to complete the distance. Another running partner, Jennifer, also ran with us a couple of times a week. She was also training for the half, but had more of a time goal, so she ran with a faster group too. The great thing about training with friends is that when one person is having an off day, usually the other can bring her up. There were, of course, times when we both spent our runs whining about aches and pains. Through all of the ups and downs of training, we stuck together. That's what running friends do.
The weekend of the race was a busy one. The race was on a Sunday morning. That Friday night we had to attend the high school football game where our daughter was performing in the band. On Saturday we had a band contest out of town. Then we had to be out of the house by 4:15 am the morning of the race. I am not a morning person - at all - but that morning I didn't feel too bad. I was nervous, but not like I thought I would be. Gary, Jackie, Jennifer, and I arrived in Evansville, found a parking spot, and boarded a school bus that would take us to the starting line. I usually hate the wait, but it was a pretty morning, and being with my husband and my friends made the wait go by rather quickly. I could feel the energy of the other runners in the air. Our other friends arrived, we had a picture taken, wished one another well, and went to our respective corrals. Jackie and I lined up between the 10 and 11 minute pace cards. The sun was coming up, a prayer was offered, and the gun went off. My first half marathon. I felt great! Because there were over 2000 runners, the start was slow. It took about a mile for the crowd to begin to thin out. We were then able to get into our groove and just run. Our plan was to maintain about a 10:30 pace, but we found ourselves going faster. As long as we felt good, and weren't really pushing too hard too fast, we just kept going.
This race was very well-managed, and the attention to detail was impressive. On a path through one of the parks, someone had written the names of all of the cities represented in sidewalk chalk. That might not seem that impressive, but you would be surprised at how much those little things take your mind off of the running. We ran through parks, a minor league baseball field, nice neighborhoods, not-so-nice neighborhoods, a neat Main Street area, a brick road, and a river walk. We talked about our kids, our jobs, our training. If we were really hard-core runners, we would have been focused only on running our best race and we would not have talked - we are obviously not hard-core! We wanted to have fun, and to complete the race in a decent time. Neither of us had dreams of placing; we were going to PR even if we walked! I did the motions to the chicken dance as we ran past a woman playing the song on her accordian (I had never heard the chicken dance played on an accordian - interesting!), I did little dancy moves as we went past someone blasting rap music, and I threatened to sing, but Jackie threatened bodily harm if I did that. We had fun!
As we reached mile 12, I knew we had it made. I was still feeling good, even as many runners started to walk. At that point, there was no way I was going to walk. We jogged slowly enough to be able to drink water (without too much of it going up my nose), but we never slowed to a walk. Approaching the finish line that was lined with hundreds of spectators was amazing. I knew my two youngest daughters were there somewhere, and Jennifer, who had already finished, was there supporting her two slower friends. Our race bibs had our names on them, which I kept forgetting, so random people would yell our names, and each time I would wonder how he or she knew me! My brain was occupied with trying to reach the finish line, it couldn't be bothered with such details! As we came within a few feet of the finish line, I grabbed Jackie's hand. I wanted us to complete this journey together, just as we had started. It was just as I had envisioned - amazing! Our time: 2:13:07! Seven minutes faster than anticipated. Not bad for two 40-something year old women who didn't begin running until mid-life. What an amazing feeling of accomplishment! I think that even my girls were pretty proud of their old mom!
Jackie couldn't enjoy the moment too long because her son had confirmation the same day, but Jennifer, my girls, and I went to watch my husband cross the finish line in his first marathon. This man has an artificial knee, hadn't run in years because of knee problems, and yet he worked diligently to be able to run 13.1 miles. This wife was terribly proud! As we watched other runners cross that line, I stood in awe of the array of runners - from a 13 year old girl to an 87 year old man. From over-weight middle-aged men and women, to young, buff college students. Runners truly come in all forms, and they are all working hard to meet personal goals. It was an inspiring day, and one that I will always remember. We all cheered as Gary came through the finish. We had all met our goals, and we all felt fantastic.
Will I do it again? Absolutely! I was exhausted by the time we got home (the Ihop pancakes didn't help), and I was sore the next day, but that feeling as we crossed the finish line was worth any discomfort I have had as a result. I ran a half marathon. I RAN A HALF MARATHON!!
Sunday, October 3, 2010
One Week From Today...
It's a gorgeous day today: temps in the low 60s and sunny. The best part is that I am at home! After an incredibly busy week, I was determined to stay home, and to do what I wanted, which thus far has included staying in bed until 10:15, watching a worthless Lifetime movie, eating Grippos chips and monster cookies leftover from a band party last night, straightening up from said party, and working on laundry. I do have a rather large stack of papers that need to be graded, and I vow to get to that, but first I needed to write. Since school started I haven't had much time to update my blog. Between work, running, band obligations, and Thirty-One parties, spare time is at a minimum. Life should slow down a bit in November - oh, wait - then holiday preparations begin, so maybe it will be January before things slow down.
One week from today is the Evansville Half Marathon. I, along with Gary and several friends, am running it. A half marathon is 13.1 miles. That's a long way to run. Jackie and I have run 13.1 miles, so we know that we can complete the mileage - in Tell City, on our familiar routes, without 3000 other runners, and without the pressure of having to finish. Can we run it in a race? We are not concerned with placing (that would be crazy), we just want to finish in a respectable time, without walking, puking, or injuring ourselves. We have trained adequately according to all of the literature, but one just never knows what kind of day it will be. My stomach is my main concern (Thanks, Mom, for giving me your unpredictable stomach!). I know what to eat, but my stomach is the first to go when I am nervous, and I certainly don't want to spend time in a porta-potty! The most nerve-racking part will be the drive to Evansville - at 4:30 in the morning - and just waiting for the gun to go off. Once we are about a mile into it, I will relax and get into a groove. Jackie and I plan to stick together; we have spent countless hours pounding the pavement together, so we want to complete this journey together (and neither of us wants to spend two hours and twenty minutes running alone - we like to chat). Our other running partner, Jennifer, will be much faster than the two of us, so we are counting on her to be doing cartwheels at the finish line as we cross! I have often read that visualizing a goal does wonders for achieving that goal, so I have been visualizing Jackie and I crossing that finish line, and I have a spot reserved on my car for a 13.1 sticker. There was a time, not too long ago, that running a half marathon was not even a consideration. Now it's actually a possibility. I can't wait to join other runners as I reach this life-goal.
Last weekend, Gary, my sister Bobbi, and I ran the Susan Komen Race for the Cure. If you ever have an opportunity to participate in this event, take it. It is an awe-inspiring morning. It is not about running fast; it is about supporting an important cause. Both years that we have run, the weather has been perfect. My favorite shirts of the day: "Save 2nd Base" (get it??) and "Just for Tits and Giggles".
There were 14,000 people registered for the Race for the Cure! The majority were walkers. I decided to run with my sister, and I am so glad that I did. She hadn't been running much, but ran 3.1 miles that morning without stopping. I was so impressed! The second half of the race we were also with Gary. That was the first race that he and I crossed the finish line together. I am so proud that he continues to challenge himself. I believe that he has inspired a lot of people who have seen him out running. Most know that he has an artificial knee, and that running isn't easy for him. What a testament to the power of desire and dedication!
If you are awake at 7:00 am next Sunday, say a little prayer for me. I will be shaking in my Asics! I will most certainly be writing about my experience, and who knows, maybe next year some of you will join us! I want to wish Jackie, Jennifer, Kim, and Jennifer C good luck in the race!! Kim, we know you will kick butt - make us proud!!
One week from today is the Evansville Half Marathon. I, along with Gary and several friends, am running it. A half marathon is 13.1 miles. That's a long way to run. Jackie and I have run 13.1 miles, so we know that we can complete the mileage - in Tell City, on our familiar routes, without 3000 other runners, and without the pressure of having to finish. Can we run it in a race? We are not concerned with placing (that would be crazy), we just want to finish in a respectable time, without walking, puking, or injuring ourselves. We have trained adequately according to all of the literature, but one just never knows what kind of day it will be. My stomach is my main concern (Thanks, Mom, for giving me your unpredictable stomach!). I know what to eat, but my stomach is the first to go when I am nervous, and I certainly don't want to spend time in a porta-potty! The most nerve-racking part will be the drive to Evansville - at 4:30 in the morning - and just waiting for the gun to go off. Once we are about a mile into it, I will relax and get into a groove. Jackie and I plan to stick together; we have spent countless hours pounding the pavement together, so we want to complete this journey together (and neither of us wants to spend two hours and twenty minutes running alone - we like to chat). Our other running partner, Jennifer, will be much faster than the two of us, so we are counting on her to be doing cartwheels at the finish line as we cross! I have often read that visualizing a goal does wonders for achieving that goal, so I have been visualizing Jackie and I crossing that finish line, and I have a spot reserved on my car for a 13.1 sticker. There was a time, not too long ago, that running a half marathon was not even a consideration. Now it's actually a possibility. I can't wait to join other runners as I reach this life-goal.
Last weekend, Gary, my sister Bobbi, and I ran the Susan Komen Race for the Cure. If you ever have an opportunity to participate in this event, take it. It is an awe-inspiring morning. It is not about running fast; it is about supporting an important cause. Both years that we have run, the weather has been perfect. My favorite shirts of the day: "Save 2nd Base" (get it??) and "Just for Tits and Giggles".
There were 14,000 people registered for the Race for the Cure! The majority were walkers. I decided to run with my sister, and I am so glad that I did. She hadn't been running much, but ran 3.1 miles that morning without stopping. I was so impressed! The second half of the race we were also with Gary. That was the first race that he and I crossed the finish line together. I am so proud that he continues to challenge himself. I believe that he has inspired a lot of people who have seen him out running. Most know that he has an artificial knee, and that running isn't easy for him. What a testament to the power of desire and dedication!
If you are awake at 7:00 am next Sunday, say a little prayer for me. I will be shaking in my Asics! I will most certainly be writing about my experience, and who knows, maybe next year some of you will join us! I want to wish Jackie, Jennifer, Kim, and Jennifer C good luck in the race!! Kim, we know you will kick butt - make us proud!!
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