T-3 Days

Well. It's coming.... whether I like it or not. I feel like I'm strapped into a roller coaster that's just taking off and there is nothing I can do but just endure it. Except... that I'm beyond thrilled to be on this ride.

Source

At this point in marathon training, everything in my life is on autopilot and my brain is constantly stuck on the race. My heart starts pounding and my palms start sweating every time I think about Saturday. Just a little nervous over here.
Despite the miles upon miles (upon miles) of training, the confidence I had last weekend after finishing 20, and the determination I have in my heart to finish, I'll admit, I am freaking out a little (lot).

As far as that 20 miler- it went pretty great! Yes. It was hard. Probably more mentally hard than anything but I did it. And I know if I can do that, without the support of spectators and my personal fan base (yeah, I'm talking to you Cory and Mom- you better bring obnoxious signs and choreographed cheers), I can run a marathon.

The one thing that I learned from that run was that every mile (after about 14) I had to anticipate ups and downs. One minute I was be soaring, feeling on top of the world, and the very next it would be a struggle to pick up my feet. This happened on and off, again and again and again. I just had to keep in mind that the struggle would end and that it would come again; which seemed to help.
I felt great after the run and was on my feet most of the day. Sunday I felt awesome and Monday I was bouncing with energy. I had a great 5 mile run Monday night and a perfect 8 miler Tuesday. I couldn't understand how I felt so great... then came Wednesday.

I woke up early for strength training and headed to the gym before work. After doing a few arm exercises, I stood up from the cable pull-down machine... and there it was. My lower back felt like it had 1,000 knives in it. I was all too familiar with this pain and immediately knew it wasn't good. I gently tried to stretch it out, which only made the pain worse. Being dramatic, I immediately jumped to conclusions thinking I wouldn't be able to race and my life would be over.

I made an appointment with the chiropractor for that night. He looked at my x-rays and said I had some strained muscles on the lower left side (From what, I have no idea. Thanks for rebelling against me body.) He did some work on my back and then hooked me up with some shock therapy, told me to ice regularly and come back Friday. He did give me the "okay" to run Thursday, as long as there was no pain.

Well Thursday's run went alright. I was wayyy too in tune with my back that it made the run drag on and I just felt exhausted. My usual easy pace was killing me. I think I went to bed at 8pm that night. My entire body ached and all I wanted to do was sleep (the 20 miles decided to catch up to me I guess) Same thing with Friday, I was just worn down. I went back to the chiro Friday and he did some more shock therapy, which helped loosen my back a lot.

I ran 8 Saturday (last long run!) and felt okay, except that the "easy" pace was exhausting me. I think my body was just tired from the back pain, the long runs and life in general. I took it easy Sunday and went back to the doc yesterday for more treatment. My back's starting to feel better, but it's taking it's sweet time and a tole on my confidence. I know that regardless of the condition I'm in, I'm running. No questions there.

Besides the back issues, I'm starting to get (really) excited. I just want to be out there running! This week's mileage is very light, which is nice after all the weeks of training.

Tomorrow starts the process of carb loading. I've done a lot of research on the proper way to do this, which, btw is supposed to prevent you from hitting the wall in the higher miles of the race. The key to this is not eating more than normal, but just replacing your normal calories with 80% from complex carbs. I'm trying to eat as close to normal as possible, to prevent any unwanted stomach issues... so we'll see how this goes.

The countdown is on!!! Have a great week!

PS-

Do it. I did.

I don't go looking for hills, but when I come to one, I run it.

Happy Monday!! Hope your week has started off great!

Remember when I said last week that I was just going to run this weekend's Rocktoberfest Half for fun and not for time? I should know myself better than that.

When the gun went off at a blustery (read, freezing) 7:40am start time, I took off hoping to bring home a new PR. The first few miles were scary, which is normal for me. At that point, I can't quite get a "feel" for the race and there are a lot of uncertainties, insecurities and questions.

What if I can't keep up with my friends?
What if I get hurt along the way?
How will I feel?
What if something unexpected happens?
What if I can't do this????

Those brain demons tried to work their magic on my confidence, but by mile 4, we parted ways and I told them to kiss it. I think I had a smile on my face from that point until I crossed the finish line. I waved to spectators, high-fived little kids, thanked all the officers and volunteers and really tried to take in the beautiful Charlotte scenery.

When the race started, it was around 40 degrees. I wore my Nike Tempos, a short sleeve DriFit tee, and a long sleeve tee over top with cheap gloves that I threw away around mile 3. I also wore my Nathan hydration belt, which I wish I could propose marriage to...once you go Nathan, you don't go back. (...sorry for that lame attempt to be funny, it's Monday). Having the availability of water at all times is not only a confidence booster but also gave me the freedom to take water when I needed it, and not waiting for a water stop. I took a Vanilla Gu at mile 6, one Chomp at mile 10 and one Chomp at mile 12... Did I mention the last 4 miles of this race were UPhill?? It was gruesome. I was banking on those being my fastest, which was not the case.

In fact, the entire race was massively hilly. I think I ran less than one combined total mile of flat road... which may be the reason I cannot walk today. I took another ice bath last night and have been stretching/rolling my legs but they are still in pain.

The race ended up being a little long (13.22 instead of 13.1) and that extra .12 added about a minute to my time (bummer...) but overall I am very happy with how I did! According to my Garmin, I finished in 2:05:21, which is a PR of 38 seconds. I'll take it, given I have done no speed training and was planning on an easy day!


Just finished! :) Everyone did GREAT! Pat (beside me on the end) even got 2nd place in her age group!!


Plus I got a sweet new medal to add to my collection and a third Half under my belt. 3 Halfs ( or it is halves??) so far this year! woo hoooo! Can't wait to bring home the big medal in 3 weeks!!!! (ho-ly shit.)

 

Getting back in the Fast Lane

TGIF!!! I can't believe we've made it to Friday, once again!
Ya know how I said I thought this week would fly by? Yeah, definitely jinxed myself. I never thought this day would come.

I don't think I've mentioned this on here before, but ever since I started Half Marathon training back in February, I feel like I have lost all my speed! I've been struggling with it some, and it gets me a little down (yes, competitive nature is in full force here) but then I remember that distance running is about how far not how fast. The last 5k I ran (in December) is currently my PR- I ran it in 24:01, a 7:50/mile pace. Sadly, that pace is only in my dreams right now! (The song "Back to December" plays in my mind ha!!)

Overall, I think I actually enjoy running at a slower pace, not only for social reasons- meaning I can actually run, breath and talk, as opposed to obnoxiously gasping for air like I do when I run fast- but also because I can take in the run and the scenery, and appreciate it (not to mention, it's easier!) But I am in serious need of some fast running! I have my eye on several short races this summer and I refuse to run slow. Short races are all about "going all out!"

To amp up my speed, I threw in a few speed runs this week. Monday after work, I jumped on the treadmill and ran 1 mile at 8:15 pace and then for mile 2, I increased the speed every .15/mile and finished the two right around 16 mins. The third mile I scaled it back to 9min/mile, increasing the incline every so often.

Tuesday morning, I woke up early and got in a fast 2 miles outside- not sure on speed because I ran it naked.. (without my Garmin) but I think it was under 8:30/mile. Then took it inside at lunch for 3 additional miles ranging from a 9:15-8:15 pace.

Hopefully these few runs will help me a little... since I've finally decided to run the Lake Wylie Splash Dash 10k in the morning! Woo hooo! I've heard this is a tough course and very hilly. If it's anything like last weekend, I'm in for it! :)

Changing topics, I know I've mentioned just a little about the Junior Welfare League I've joined, but haven't said much. My wonderful sister-in-law, Page, nominated me and my sister, Jennifer, to join for the 2011-2012 year. This is considered our "provisional year" where we must meet certain expectations to become a full blown member. The League is all about contributing to the welfare of the Rock Hill community, through various fund raisers as well as voluntarily working at our consignment shop, Twice Is Nice. Each year, the Provisional Class chooses an agency for the yearly project. The project typically consists of facility improvements like landscaping, painting, etc.

Currently, we are taking numerous agency tours to see just what each agency is all about and to also see what they need help with. Yesterday, I had the pleasure of visiting The Haven, a shelter for homeless men in the area. The Haven provides it's residents with shelter, meals and resources to aid them as they get back on their feet.

While this place defiantly helps these men, it was quite an eye opener for me. These guys live daily with no air conditioner in a dorm-like style room that they share- far from the luxurious apartment I often complain about! It really makes me thank God for what He has provided me with! I'm sure you'll be hearing more as I continue my agency tours.



Look for a Race Recap this weekend! :) Wish me luck!

13.1 x 2 in 30

Well...I made it! I survived two Half Marathons in one month! wooo hoo!!

Boy, is my body feelin' it too! The race was awesome, and HARD, and awesome! The hills were tough but the crowd support was outstanding and seeing all the Marine Corps out there handing out water, serving me was a humbling experience. These guys were awesome! I got to run through so many historical landmarks and really got to take in Fredericksburg.

The start

I'm not gonna lie, this was the toughest run I've endured, to date. My body just wasn't with it and I was feeling pretty weak only a few miles in, but I just tried my best to keep a steady pace and finish strong. I know being sick really took a toll on my body and only being able to run twice last week ate at me mentally. I took water at every stop after mile 6 and Gatorade before mile 10, "Hospital Hill." I took one GU around mile 8 and ran most of the race with a cough drop in my mouth to help me breath (smart, I know). But, I finished!!! This race pushed me mentally farther than I've ever been and really let me see how far my body can go when my mind (really) wanted to quit. SO glad I did it! :)



8,000 runners!



Did I mention Drew Carey ran?!





Sorry these are Proofs!





After the race, Cory and I went back to the hotel, showered and were on our way! We arrived home around 5:30 and crashed for the rest of the night. It felt so good to be home with our babies, even though we were only gone a few days!

Monday was a BUSY day! Since I took a half day from work on Friday, I had a lot to catch up on. I broke for lunch around 1 and tried to get a jump start on my To-Do list. I have a dinner tonight for the Junior Welfare League that I've recently joined and wanted to get a new dress for it. I had no luck during lunch, but luckily was able to find something after work! Decisions, decisions!

 (I went with the one of the left, thanks to Cory's input! :D )

I took Monday off from working out, mainly because I couldn't even walk (and significantly needed a rest day!) but also because I just had so much to do! I picked up a baby shower gift for my Sister-In-Law, found a dress, searched for shoes, picked up some make up and grocery shopped all before 8pm. Then I got home and cooked this deliciousness:



This was heavenly and only 250 calories!!! No, that's not a joke! :)


Ingredients:
1 Flatout Flat bread- Light Tomato flavored
1/4 c Prego Marinara Sauce
1/4 c Italian cheese
Dried basil, salt, pepper
Baby spinach, chopped
Tomato, chopped

I assembled all the ingredients and baked in our Toaster Oven at 300 for about 5-7 mins. It was delicious!! I will definitely be making this again! Actually, I already did! :) I'm having a "calzone" version of this today for lunch and I can't wait!

Have a great Tuesday! :)

Half Marathoner!

I did it! I'm officially a Half Marathoner!

This past weekend was the epitomy of jam packed! But, I loved every second of it! I got to do all of my favorite things- run (duh), spend time with my sisters, enjoy a beautiful wedding of one of my best childhood friends, shop in Charleston, and lay out in the sun. What more could a girl want?!

Charlotte Racefest Half Marathon Recap

This was my first Half Marathon and technically my 6th race ever! Who knew last August when I was preparing for my first 5k that 8 months later I'd be competing for 13.1?! I get kind of emotional just thinking about how far I've come.

The day before the big race I started prepping. I decided to skip my AM workout and use Friday as a complete "rest day". I ate my regular breakfast of 2 egg whites, a whole wheat english muffin and a cup of coffee and chugged water like it was goin outta style. I ate a pretty large lunch in efforts to carbo load, since I wanted to eat a lighter dinner.  I had spaghetti with ground turkey, fresh tomatoes and a little grated parm cheese. When I got off work, I went home to start getting things ready for the weekend.

I had wanted to eat an early-for-me dinner... but after picking up my race packet and running around I ended up eating around 8:30. I had a quick tuna sandwhich on whole wheat at Mom's- delish!

Once I got home, I laid out all my gear for the morning. Who knew runner's need SO.MUCH.STUFF. to...well, run??! Before I started seriously running, I thought all you needed was a "good pair" of tennis shoes (meaning the cheap ones on sale at Dick's) and you were off to hit the pavement! Oh, how young and niave I was (ahem, 8 months ago).

My packing list:
-Running Shorts
-Granny panties
-Extra clothes for after race
-Sports bra
-Racing bib/safety pins
-Running Team tee
-Water
-Garmin 305
-Prewrap (to go under my Garmin)
-Camera
-Spi Belt
-Gu, Gu Chomps
-Chapstick
-Body Glide (Chafe prevention!)
-Deoderant
-Running shoes (Ascics GT-2160)
-Nike Visor (to keep the rain off my face)
-Wicking socks

Quite the list!

After getting everything together, I was snuggled in bed, praying for a sunny morning by 9:45pm. Suprisingly, I slept pretty darn good and when the alarm went off at 4:50am I felt well rested. I got up, checked my email and was RELIEVED to find this:

Yesss!!! I got PUMPED after that, dressed quickly, checked and re-checked my bag, made a quick whole wheat english muffin w/ peanut butter + banana and threw it in the bag for later (planned to eat around 6:15am). Mom picked me up to drive me to a local Starbucks to meet my running team so we could caravan to the race.

After arriving, we did a quick warm-up and stretched. Thank goodness we used the bathroom at Starbucks! It was a good 30 min wait for the port-a-potties! It started raining promptly at 7:15; just enough time to soak us down before the race even started.

Miles 1-3 were kind of a blur. There were 3,300 runners and the 10k and Half started together; so naturally it was insanely crowded and hard to run without fear of falling and being trampled over by a gazillion crazy adrenaline-induced runners. I chased after one of my teammates, weaving in an out of the crowd until we finally got some breathing room.

Splits:
Mi 1 9:56
Mi 2 9:33
Mi 3 9:41

I passed up the water stations, mentally deciding to take water around mi 6 or 7 when I'd take my Gu. I was feelin pretty good, despite the constant rain, and decided to try and keep my pace around 9:30.

Miles 4-7 were nice; stayed mainly on one road with flat to rolling hills. The crowds of runners started to space out and I was trying to soak in every second. By this point 2 of my teammates and I were running together, although not making a point to stick side by side. By the end of mile 5, I decided to speed up and ran alone for the remainder of the race.

Splits
Mi 4 9:20
Mi 5 9:20
Mi 6 9:17
Mi 7 9:15

Look at that sexy hair!

Mile 8 was killer. There was about a half mile hill and my legs caught up to me. I took water at the aid station and my Gu and started feeling better- it was all mental from here. During all my long runs, my teammates and I would talk so I'd never bring music. Without thinking, I assumed it'd be the same on race day and didnt' bring along my iPod- MISTAKE!  I was so bored with myself and was letting my mind get the best of me.

"What's my pace? Where's the next hill? Why's my ankle hurting? Is that a side stitch coming? Where's that girl I was running behind, did she get way ahead of me? Am I going too fast? Can I do this??!"

Bad news. I wish more than anything I'd had music to take that damn voice out of my head! I'll know for next time. I recovered and got back to speed by mile 9 and took it easy on mile 10; I was starting to feel it!

Splits
Mi 8 9:54
Mi 9 9:17
Mi 10 9:35

Mile 11 was brutal. There was a steep but short hill that I had anticipated the whole way. I threw in 2 Gu chomps to prepare and took it like a man. I was SO suprised at how many people were walking; but I refused.  I just repeated in my head "JUST. KEEP. GOING" over and over. I had promised myself at the start that I wouldn't walk at all. Not even through the water stops. In my mind, I wanted to know I "ran" the whole way... and while I know it's still an awesome accomplishment for those that did take walk breaks, it was just my personal preference to run the entire way.

After that hill, I felt like my legs never quite recovered like I had expected. I was breathing heavy, I was soaking wet and I was bored. I remember thinking "this is not fun, I'm so over this right now" but then my optimistic side took over and persuaded my demon side that running faster meant ending faster, so I kept chugging along.

Splits:
Mi 11 9.56
Mi 12 9.40

Once I got to Mi 12 and knew I had just one more to go, I got excited. The rain let up a little and I was feeling good. I knew at that point I was going to be a Half Marathoner. I could feel the energy from the runners around me. I started seeing the crowds and I got butterflies through the pain in my legs. I just kept saying "hold it right here, you're almost there." I wanted to finish strong, I wanted to see my family's proud faces, and damnit, I wanted that metal! I crossed the finish line at 2:05 with a smile on my face! I did it!

Mi 13 9.40
Mi 0.17 1.30

"The miracle isn't that I finished. The miracle is that I had the courage to start."

-John Bingham

After that, it was straight home to shower then straight to Charleston, SC for a wedding and accompanying shenanigans with my two faves (including, of course, indulging on wedding food and BEER!)

I just love these two!

Oh, and of course, sweet pea got some pampering, too!

Lookin' fiiiine, got my huur did!