running – Page 24 – The Celiathlete

October 20, 2013

Bank of America Chicago Marathon – Chicago, IL (October 13, 2013)

Me at Mile 3 of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon - Chicago, Illinois — Me at Mile 3 of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon – Chicago, Illinois

Race: Bank of America Chicago Marathon

Place: Chicago, Illinois

Date: October 13, 2013

Time: 3:28:28

I just ran my first marathon! My first 26.2 miles. I ran it through 29 neighborhoods in Chicago. I ran it strong. I never hit a wall. I had a plan. I stuck with it. And I had some of the best support on the ground I could have ever asked for at a race. The weather was perfect. And I, honestly, had the time of my life.

How many people can say that when they’re running 26.2 miles, eh?

But this post doesn’t start at the race. This post started 18 weeks ago when I not only began a challenging training program, but also took it upon myself to find a sports nutritionist because I wanted to be sure that I got to this race and was able to run this race in the best shape possible…and ready. There are so many times before where I did so many things wrong…especially when it came to fueling and hydrating during races. I didn’t want that to happen here. You only get your first marathon once. I wanted it to be a good and happy memory. So, Donna, if you are reading this, all your advice and help really, really paid off. I listened to you about how to fuel properly for a marathon, how to hydrate properly for a marathon, what to eat, what to avoid, and how to figure out what worked best for me. Some weeks were better than others…but that’s why we have those 18 weeks of training. You figure it all out.

So, as the taper kicked in and my mood shifted from runner’s high to evil step-runner mode (I do NOT handle taper well. Let this be my PSA to all of you), I had to really trust my body and try not to let the mental game of…running less = poor performance get to me. Mind games. They happen. I was very respectful of my taper, doing exactly as my plan called for. That meant the week leading into my marathon, I didn’t run much. For three days, I ran 4 miles each morning. Two of them were at marathon pace. One was more speed work and pacing related. Then…two full days off. No running. No morning walks. Zero. Zilch. Nada. Rest the legs. Get them ready. I wanted to run so bad during those days…but I didn’t. I made myself rest. It was two of the hardest days of my life.

Friday night, my friend Jenn from Ohio rolled into town. She has been to quite a few of my races and is such a huge support. She wasn’t going to miss the opportunity to come to Chicago to see me run. Nope. So, she headed this way and got in as I was still trying to make myself pack for the race. I was distracting myself. With everything. Including organizing my BondiBand’s by color. Packing…yeah…focus. She and Cathy got me on task, and once my running bag and my regular duffel bag were packed with what I could pack that night…the three of us headed out to grab some dinner.

Since it had been way too long since Jenn had come into the area, I had her pick a place where we could eat dinner. I sent her places that had options for everyone, including me. And she surprised me when she chose Dakshin, a local and amazing Indian restaurant. I threw it on the list because I knew it had good food. Never did I expect Jenn to pick it. But she did. And I was proud of her for branching out. So, we made the drive over to Dakshin and settled in for some crazy-good Indian food. If you live in Louisville and haven’t tried this place…DO IT! Since it was only two days to my marathon, I was being extra cautious about my food. Being a Celiac means being so careful when it comes to eating out. I wanted carbs and protein…so I ordered the Dal Tadke Wali…which is home style yellow lentils which are tempered with Indian spices. YUMMY! It was served with this delicious basmati rice that has coriander seeds and various Indian spices cooked in with it. Keep that in mind as you scoop it onto your plate…FYI! Needless to say…the food was delicious and Indian food is one of my favorite cuisines anyway. I don’t get the authentic stuff often…so this really made me happy. Cathy, in case you were wondering, chose the Goat Korma…which was apparently spicy. Jenn went with the safe, but still off the beaten path for her, Tandoori Chicken. It was spicy for her too. So, with me being the one who loves spice…I got the mildest meal of all three of us. Go figure. Anyway…after our amazing food, we went to celebrate the upcoming race with some ice cream from The Comfy Cow. I was a Pumpkin Spice and Everything Nice scooper. Hey…marathon training means ice cream. This was Jenn’s first taste of Comfy Cow ice cream, so she went with the Bonjour Toast offering. Cathy went with Vermont Maple Walnut. With full bellies…we headed back to the apartment to settle in for the evening and watch Spirit of the Marathon to get keyed up for Sunday…and followed it up with Marathon Thoughts…which if you haven’t pulled that up on YouTube…shame on you. Do so now!

We crashed out that evening at a decent time. The people downstairs were having a party, so sleep wasn’t easy and I didn’t get much of it. My alarm went off early…because my training plan called for me to do 3 miles or 30 minutes of running that day. Since we had a drive to Chicago ahead of us, I got out of bed, put on my running clothes, my reflective gear, and headed out to run. The rest days were good for me…and my legs felt good as I pushed through three very early miles. I came back and snuck inside so as not to wake anyone yet. Went to shower and finish packing. Then, Jenn was up. And soon Cathy was as well. We ate a quick breakfast (cereal and some gluten-free French toast sticks…which…eh…) before packing up the car with all of our stuff, a cooler of drinks and snacks, and hit the road to Chicago. We had to detour around Indianapolis due to Highway 65 being shut down going through downtown, so this tacked on some time. My friend Heather, like one of my best friends who I have known since third grade!, was in Chicago to see me run. She flew in from Minnesota for the occasion and texted to let me know she was there and grabbing some breakfast. We had hoped to get in around 10 a.m. We got there around 11 a.m. We met up with Heather at the Hilton Chicago, the host hotel, and the hotel we were staying in for the weekend. We valeted the car, put our luggage on a cart to be delivered, and I got us checked into the hotel. We were up on the 8th Floor…which just happened to be the floor where many of the elites were staying. The luggage would be up shortly, but the four of us headed up to the room. The first set of keys I was given, didn’t work…so I headed back down to the lobby to get that fixed. There was a much longer line now and more of a wait. But, I just let it roll off my back. These things happen. No sense getting worked up over it, right? The key situation was fixed and we got some commemorative keys to boot. LOVE them. Back up to the room and my friends were already inside. I closed myself out just to make sure the keys worked this time. They did. And soon after…luggage was delivered.

This is how I know my friends are totally amazing. The guy bringing in our luggage carried in the famous Donkey sign first, saying the most important thing had to come in first. He immediately put it up in the window facing the lake. It made me smile…a lot. As he was bringing in our bags and cooler, he was asking questions about the race…and I mentioned it was my first marathon. He said to my friends that they had a long day ahead of them tomorrow…at least a 4 hour or 4-1/2 hour wait for me to come in. To which, Heather chimes…”Nope. She’ll run it in 3:30.” Cathy and Jenn totally ran with that as well and I just nervously laughed. He asked what my number was because he’d have his eye on me. So, we told him, tipped him, and he was gone. With that bit of business taken care of…and bathroom breaks made, we hurried downstairs to 8th Street entrance of the Hilton and got in line for the shuttle buses to take us over to McCormick Place, where the expo was awaiting us. The first bus that arrived filled up fast…but we got on the next one and soon were on our way to the expo.

Me at the Nike booth at the expo for the Chicago Marathon

Lately, my race expos have been tiny and rather…disappointing. Utica…was probably the best one I had been to all year…and I’m not counting Disney races in this. Disney is a monster all its own. But this expo…was HUGE!! We walked into McCormick Place and just followed the sea of runners…which guided us to the monstrous exhibit hall where all things running related were happening. First things first, however…and that was getting my packet. I headed over to where this BIG sign declared PACKET PICK-UP, and stepped up to this little table where they scanned my participant guide and sent me over to Booth 5 to retrieve my bib number and packet. I headed that way, and my information was already pulled up and waiting on me. I was handed my bib, an envelope of information, and told where to go in order to get my race t-shirt. I grabbed some Chicago Runs For Boston bracelets for me and my friends and went to head to get my t-shirt. But…got waylaid by this awesome wall where people were able to remove a magnet and sign their name. We all did it…writing messages and the like…and keeping our magnets as mementos. Then, we got to battle the crowds. I was ready…and as we made our way up the first row of exhibitors…I just casually glanced at the booths. I was hoping to make it out of the expo without spending too much money, so the less time I looked at things, the more likely that was going to happen. I managed to get up to the tables in the back that had the t-shirts and bags for the participants. I retrieved mine…and, as I learned my lesson from Disneyland, immediately pulled out the t-shirt to make sure it was a proper fit. It was. So now…we were loose to check out the exhibitors and try to make it out with as much of my wallet in tact as possible.

It was a valiant effort…but an ultimate fail in the end. I found CEP’s booth and picked up some compression sleeves for my friend Natalie. She wanted the blue ones I wore once to the fun run…and I promised if I spotted them at the expo in Chicago in her size, I would buy them. Well…it happened. And they were now hers. Not far from there was the BondiBand booth. And my friends and I set out on a mission to find a 26.2 BondiBand. We found SO many good ones, just not 26.2. Then…we started finding them…in hideous colors. With some luck…I found two that were okay. One in blue with pink numbers, and a red and black one. I asked my friends which I should get, and since my uniform for the race was red and black…that was what we went with. I purchased two other BondiBands as well…

Oh…I also got to meet Hal Higdon. Like…THE Hal Higdon. How amazing is that? I bought his new book, 4:09:43 – The Boston Marathon Bombings, and was able to have it autographed. This happened because I get a call from Cathy saying…”I’m standing next to Hal Higdon. You better get over here!” And with some direction…yep…it happened. And I was this little fangirling runner trying not to squee and make a fool of myself. Because…DUDE…it’s Hal Higdon. AND while Hal was signing my book, right behind me on the main programming stage…Deena Kastor. DEENA KASTOR!! One of my running idles. I was…in runner heaven, I think.

But…there was much to do that day so lingering too long was not going to be an option. We were just scraping the surface of the expo. So…we made our way past booths…in which I ignored the Newton booth…because I couldn’t afford more shoes at the moment as much as I wanted another pair. We sampled different NUUN flavors. We tried some protein bars (gluten-free, of course), we walked past Scott Jurek, the vegan ultramarathoner…and I once again had to attempt not to squee!! I was doing good…not spending any more money…and we were making lots of progress through the expo.

Then, lo and behold, I hear someone calling my name. It’s Matthew and Dawn, who I run with on Saturday mornings with my group. They were up in Chicago as spectators, not runners, in this marathon and saw me walk by. In that mass of people…they spotted me. We hugged…we talked…they asked how I was feeling. I said the nerves were gone, now I was just excited. So…I was already feeling better. Lots of people I knew were here…they were going to be cheering…it was going to be a good time. They told me to have my bib scanned at the Nike booth…so I took that advice and headed that way. Bib scanned and the screen read, “Karen Owns Chicago.” SWEET! I was about to leave, after getting a free poster, when I spotted the official merchandise. No shirts though…but we were directed over to the Nike booth. UH OH!! Yeah…might as well have just drained my wallet when I walked in there. Needless to say…a jacket and a shirt later…I was now leaving the expo…because I was running out of money.

We returned to the Hilton and took things up to the room. We had a small amount of downtime to sit and chat. Heather did some foam rolling and I started to get my race outfit out and laid on the table so it was ready for the morning. We called down to valet after that to have the car brought around because now…it was time to feed our faces. I had discovered what sounded like an amazing place to get a gluten-free pizza. The place: Da Luciano Pizza, Pasta and Catering. It was located in River Grove, so it was about a 20 minute drive. We got there…went inside…and was asked if anyone needed a gluten-free menu. I was feeling good about this already. We were seated and left to look at the menus. While all the pastas sounded awesome, my pre-race tradition is gluten-free pizza. I wasn’t changing that up. Nope. So, we all placed our orders…and I got my gluten-free pizza with mushrooms, onion, and roasted red peppers. YUMMY! Food came out and I devoured my entire pizza and even ordered a gluten-free cannoli for dessert. That, BTW…was super-duper delish. The pizza was really good too. It hit the spot. And I was now properly fed (carbs!). We dropped Heather off at a train stop so she could head back to her hotel…and then we were headed back to the Hilton. We all changed, brushed our teeth, and…climbed into bed around 8:30 p.m.

Da Luciano's Gluten-Free Pizza and Gluten-Free Cannoli — Da Luciano’s Gluten-Free Pizza and Gluten-Free Cannoli

This was early for me. This never happens. I always try to get to bed early on race night, but it never seems to work out. So, I immediately figured that I’d have trouble falling asleep. WRONG. I was out. And I only woke up, briefly, twice during the night with the, “What if I didn’t set my alarm?” panic I always have. I rested…and rested well.

My alarm went off at 4 a.m. and I snuck out of bed, hoping not to disturb Cathy and Jenn as I fumbled around in the dark, grabbing my outfit for the race and heading into the bathroom. I dressed. I did my hair. I came out as Jenn was heading into the other bathroom. Cathy finally dragged herself out of bed too. We all had a quick bite to eat and I was texted by Heather to say she was on her way. I wasn’t sure cereal would be enough on a marathon race morning, but was told to stick with what I knew. So that morning, I ate a serving of Chocolate Chex cereal…no milk…slowly and leisurely, as I checked my e-mail and Facebook on my phone. I had so many people wishing me luck. Text messages were coming. And just as I finished eating and went to brush my teeth, Heather texted to say she was at the hotel and heading up.

I got my fuel belt ready with my hydration needs, tucked my GU packets into my skirt pockets…and when Heather arrived…we were all set to head down to the lobby. And…with perfect timing my friend Cheryl texted to ask if I was at the Hilton. I said I was and she said her gear check was right there and she wanted to come over and see me. We made plans to meet in the lobby…which was bustling with runners. But…she found me. And we hugged and talked about the race…and took pictures…because that’s what we do. Time was nearing for me to head to the gate that would take me to my corral. So…with us each wishing each other luck and telling each other to have a good run…we parted ways. She was in the 2nd wave of runners to go out…and I was in the 1st. In fact, my corral, Corral C, was only accessible through Gate #1. Heather lead the way there…and we just talked a lot about anything but racing. We even took selfies on her phone while walking. HA! We paused at the corner and took photos with each other…rotating through and then crossed the street to Gate #1. This was as far as they were allowed to go. The security checkpoint was right there…so…they wished me luck…Jenn sent me off with her usual sayings, which are magic, I swear…and I went to get in line for the no-bag security check. One more wave…and they were off to find a spot near the start…and I was off to get to my corral.

My friends are awesome - Me and Cheryl; Jenn, Me, and Cathy; Me and Heather — My friends are awesome – Me and Cheryl; Jenn, Me, and Cathy; Me and Heather

It was still dark out, but I just sort of followed the signs to get me to Corral C. It was a bit of a hike, but not bad. Not really. I was clinging to my banana for all it was worth and trying to get the butterflies in my stomach to settle. Not nervous butterflies. The excitement was starting to build. And I was just…wanting to settle in and zen. So, I found the entrance to my corral, but didn’t go right in. I stood on the side and did some stretching…some walking…some pacing. I wanted to be loose. I wanted to clear my mind. And the moment I stepped into that corral…I wanted to be focused. So…I just paced the sidewalk for about 30 minutes, stopping to stretch out my legs every now and again. At 6:55 a.m., I peeled my banana and sent to get into Corral C. Security checked my bib number, I entered and moved up to a spot where I remained for the rest of the time. I ate my banana quicker than I intended to…but I think that was just me needing something to do. I just hoped it would stick with me long enough to get me to the point I chose to be my first fuel point. I packed an extra GU pack though, just in case I needed it. I was taking no chances. But…I was fine. The corral filled up quickly. I had to help the guy behind me start his iPod. His daughter loaded up a playlist for him, but he had no idea how to work the player. I helped him out and he thanked me. I talked to some people around me, making friends, and hearing from others about their experiences with the Chicago Marathon. Exciting! The announcer had everyone remove their hats and the National Anthem played. Runners shed clothes they wore to keep warm, and we all shivered in crisp 45 degree air. At 7:20 a.m., the wheelchair start headed out. Then, at 7:21 a.m., the handcycle racers got underway. It was 7:30 a.m. when the start officially happened…with the elites up front…and the corrals behind them. We were slowly moved up as each corral was sent off. It was so comical when those holding the rope to the corral tried to clear out as those of us in Corral C were turned loose to head to the Start. I stuck to the left of the course, because Cathy said she’d be aiming for the left side of the road…I trotted to the start…crossed the line…and was off.

Chicago Marathon!!

This marathon runs through 29 neighborhoods of Chicago. It kicks off in Grant Park, which is beautiful, by the way. I took off from that start line, heading for the underpass we go through. The crowd was already prominent and loud. It was awesome. I started off smiling and I don’t think that grin ever left my face for one moment. Soon, I found myself in the Streeterville neighborhood, home of the Magnificent Mile, lots of luxury hotels, great shopping district, and Navy Pier. People were lined up 5 deep on the side of the road, making as much noise as possible…and just being loud. I wasn’t sure where I was going to see my friends…but I was through the first mile and didn’t see them at all. Onward.

The Loop was up next…with all the gorgeous architecture it brings to Chicago. I was heading up LaSalle Street…and just before Mile 3…I see the Donkey sign. There are Heather, Cathy, and Jenn and they are making some noise!! I think my smile grew even more. I waved as I ran by. Jenn yelled, “RUN DONKEY! RUN LIKE A PRETTY PONY!” Um…this is becoming a new mantra I think. I LOVE that. It was awesome seeing my friends as I neared the 5K mark. Pressing on, I entered Near North Side, where the streets were lined with trees, offering some shade from the sun, and residential areas as well. Then it was into Lincoln Park…then Wrigleyville (yes…Wrigley Field!)…then Lakeview East. And in Lakeview East…Boystown! Boystown is the first officially recognized gay village in the United States, and is also the cultural center of one of the largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender communities in the nation. This is immediately evident in the race because, aside from the rainbow flags, runners are greeted by a stage full of drag queens. It was really awesome and definitely a change in the usual mix. It made me smile! It was a party right on the course. This was one of my favorite neighborhoods to run through. The vibe was awesome.

The different neighborhoods continued…Park West, Old Town…and then…around Mile 12…River North. What made Mile 12 so damn special was that this was where Cathy and Jenn found me again on the course. Somehow I missed them. I didn’t know they were going to be there…but my eyes were always searching that crowd for my friends and my sign. How I missed it…I don’t know…but they were there and have pictures to prove it. Regardless…I must have felt them in spirit because I was still going strong! My friends are awesome. From there it was through some more of the city’s amazing neighborhoods…West Loop Gate, Greektown, and the West Loop.

I bet you’re wondering where Heather went then. Well, she already had a place in mind for where she could see me again on the course. After Mile 3…she hopped a train and found me again right around Mile 14…in front of Soul City Church. And…WOW…was she loud and cheering as I came through. I heard her above the roar of everyone else in the crowd. She wanted to be at Mile 14 because it marked the furthest I had ever gone in an official race. With 10 half marathons under my belt…13.1 miles has been the standard. She wanted to see me into that next step. And she did it with perfect Heather style!! And even got the pastor of the church to scream right along with her. What a way to take on the second half!

Near West Side was next…then Little Italy (aka: University Village). The smell of Italian food was prominent. And it smelled really good. From there it was into the Illinois Medical District. And then, as we come around toward Mile 20…the Pilsen neighborhood. Mile 20…is usually where The Wall hits. But I never even hit it. The Wall was not even a force to be reckoned with. It was dead to me. And I powered through this difficult part of the race without even slowing down. I was feeling good. My race plan for fuel and hydration was working…and fatigue wasn’t even hitting me. There was no stopping me…not here.

East Pilsen was next…followed by Chinatown. I loved Chinatown. I rounded the corner into this neighborhood and was greeted by a big, silver Chinese Dragon. The atmosphere was uplifting and awesome. And the area smelled ethnic and awesome. And it really made me want Chinese food. I haven’t had Chinese food in forever due to my food allergies. I miss it. A lot. Chinatown was SO awesome. The crowd here was massive and loud. Uplifting for sure!

Which was good because heading into Mile 23 was the hardest to contend with…because the crowds faded as we hit the industrial area. There was very little crowd support. It was only for a little over a mile though…the crowds did come back.

Bridgeport was next…then came the turn to “head home” and through the Park Boulevard neighborhood. It was straight up Michigan Avenue from that point on. The final 3 miles were upon me. And this was where I started to slow down. I felt strong, but the sun was up and the temperature was nearing 70 degrees. I was hot. But with only a 5K remaining, I was ready to give it all I had. Bronzeville…The Gap…South Commons…Prairie District…

At around Mile 26…South Loop and Central Station…where the crowd gave runners a much needed lift as all of us tackled the one hill on the course. And it was NOT nice having us run up a hill at the very end. Let me tell you though…they did their job. I slowed down just slightly as my legs really didn’t want to run up that hill, but the crowd got me there. And so did my friends, who I heard screaming for me. This was the last point they could see me at before the finish line. I was going to reunite with them in the runner reunion area afterwards. So, they were loud and awesome and I was on my way to the finish.

Me...the marathoner...after the Bank of America Chicago Marathon - Chicago, Illinois — Me…the marathoner…after the Bank of America Chicago Marathon – Chicago, Illinois

The Finish Line came into view and I kept smiling. I think I was smiling the entire time I was running, but that Finish line just went to show how tough I was…how far I’d come. It was beautiful. I gave my final push to cross the line and threw my arms up in victory. I finished strong. I finished feeling good. I got past the photographers and paused my Garmin. Then…immediately started crying. I didn’t hurt. I wasn’t tired. It was just I had so many doubts coming into this marathon, and then I went and did something extraordinary. I finished it far faster than I anticipated or even dreamed. Everything felt like a blur. I took a few deep breaths and kept moving…getting some water…and then receiving my finisher’s medal. Bananas…snack boxes…more water…and finisher’s photos…that all followed. I downed some Gatorade as I moved…then had some water. I made my way through the finish area toward the runner’s reunion, where I was to meet Cathy, Jenn and Heather under the letter V…because it would be less crowded than the beginning of the alphabet. I saw the sign…and my friends…and went running toward them. Cathy came up and gave me a tight hug, immediately telling me my official time. I cried some more. I cried more as Heather gave me a hug and then some more when Jenn gave me a hug. We were just…so happy! I was so FREAKIN’ happy. I made sure I drank some more water and I laid down to put my feet up while I called my parents in Birmingham, Alabama to tell them about my race and my finish. They were so thrilled and proud of me. I only wish they could have been there to share the moment as well.

After I hung up the phone, I stood up and went to get in line for a stretch and massage. The line was long, but I knew this would help in the end. While I was waiting, Cathy went off to see if she could find any official finisher’s gear. She returned about 10 minutes later (the line hadn’t moved) and handed me a gorgeous red rose and a bear wearing a Chicago 2013 26.2 t-shirt. Ironically, the bear’s name was Dean, which was a sign…had to be…since the captain of the charity (Action for Healthy Kids) that I was running for is none other than Dean Karnazes. Eventually, it was my turn for a stretch and massage. That was the best thing ever. It helped get those muscles loose. The therapist working on me mentioned how flexible I was…and I told her it was from years of yoga. After a good stretching…we decided to make our way back to The Hilton so I could get showered and changed. My intention, even though I wasn’t sore, was to take a cold shower. I turned the water on, stuck my hand in…and totally nixed that plan. I’ve never taken an ice bath or ice shower after a run, why start now? Especially when I didn’t feel I needed one. I bounce back really well from long distances on my own. Never change up the routine. Anyway…I was clean. I foam rolled. It was time to go see some sites around Chicago.

Our plan for the day was to hit up Garrett’s Popcorn for amazing popcorn of awesomesauce. Cathy promised me a gallon tin of the Cashew Caramel Crisp. We also got a small bag of the Chicago Mix…because we needed something to snack on. All of us bought our share of popcorn to enjoy…and we went walking the Miracle Mile. With Nike being one of the sponsors, they had all the official Finisher’s merchandise. So after a stop by The Bean…and The Chicago Tribune building…Nike was next. As we neared the building, employees were out cheering on everyone who was wearing one of the finisher’s medals. It really made it SO special. We ducked inside…and Cathy purchased two shirts for me…and Heather put money toward a nice pull-over (in Heather gray). After that…a walk back to the hotel. Heather needed to meet up with our friend Janet to go to church and Jenn, Cathy and I were going to grab some dinner. Instead of the Mexican place we had reservations for that night, we ended up sticking to the hotel and eating at the pub that was connected. I had a salad. They had fish and chips. From there…back up to the room to relax a little while and wait for Heather and Janet. Because gelato was on the menu for dessert. Well earned…and dessert is best when done with friends. I didn’t want the evening to end…but, much like my little cup of gelato…it did.

Sadly, it was time to say goodbye. Janet was going to get Heather to the airport, as she had to fly back to Minnesota that night. So, lots of hugs and promises to get together again soon…we parted ways. I walked Janet and Heather to the elevators and gave hugs and said goodbye…for the time being. I returned to the room and got changed into pajamas. Foam rolling was next. And then…we were all ready to settle in, watch some television, and then get some sleep.

The problem was…I couldn’t fall asleep. I was tired, but sleep just wasn’t going to come. So, all night I tossed and turned and watched the clock. I finally got out of bed…and went to change. Soon, Jenn woke up and then Cathy. Cathy and I went to walk a bit around the track at the fitness center before we finished packing everything up and getting ready to check out. Chicago was a blast…but we had a long drive ahead of us. So…after a quick jaunt to Caribou Coffee…we had our luggage loaded up, my car brought around…and we hit the road.

I am very, very proud of my accomplishment…and I know a lot of this was made possible by the people who have helped me along the way. First of all…major huge props, hugs, love, and appreciation go out to my sports nutritionist. Donna…without your advice, guidance, and all-over support and enthusiasm…I don’t think I would have made it through that distance without hitting The Wall. As The Wall and I are still perfect strangers…I hope to continue this trend. You are awesome and I’m so glad we are working together. Your advice and your help have, definitely, made me a better, stronger, and faster runner. You helped me develop a plan to go the distance and feel good at the end of said mileage. Guess what? It worked! Tons of praise, love, hugs, and cowbell jingles go out to my family (who couldn’t be in Chicago), my friends, my co-workers, my runners, and the strangers who got me to that finish line. This has been a long journey…and you’ve seen me through all of the insanity.

To Cathy…who saw me try and fail, try and succeed, rode 18 miles on a bike one Sunday with me to keep me company on a miserably hot day, who has seen me through injuries, seen me struggle, seen me overcome, and just continued to be the best damn crew a runner could ever have. To Jenn…who coined my new favorite phrase when it comes to running, who always tells me not to pants my poop…and who compels me with the power of Dean…who shares my love of all things chocolate, ice cream, and delicious…and who never judges me when I get up early when I visit and go for crazy long runs. Even if it’s in the kitchen during a snowstorm. Next time, I promise not to slam into the island. And to Heather…who I have known since 3rd grade…and despite your move to Minnesota as we were heading to middle school, kept in touch and still, to this day, is the best damn friend this girl could have asked for. Your amazing belief in me and my abilities is unstoppable. You teach me to reach for the stars and go beyond even what I think I am capable of achieving. Your drive is contagious. It always has been.

So…my official results of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon are that I finished in a time of 3:28:28. I am still shocked with my time and blown away by what that time means. I was 3,897/39,122 finishers overall. I was the 592/17,527 female to cross the finish line. And I was 154/3,274 in my division. You cannot believe how thrilled I am with these results. I felt so good about this run. I conserved energy…even though I took that first mile fast. I knew to ease up and let my body find it’s rhythm and its pace. I ran strong. And with that…achieved more than I ever thought possible. This past week has been dedicated to recovery…although my body hasn’t really felt like it needed it. Like I said…I bounce back. This was such an amazing experience. I never stopped smiling during the race…and it’s been hard to get me to stop smiling since then as well.

I ran this town...and owned it! — I ran this town…and owned it!

October 12, 2013

Marathon Training Week #18 – In which I head to Chicago for my first 26.2 miles!

Deep breath.

In.

Out.

In.

Out.

Don’t pass out. Don’t freak out. Keep calm. Keep calm and run a freakin’ marathon!

I can’t believe 18 weeks have already passed. I began this journey on a rainy morning, June 10, 2013…and it all culminates at the finish line of the Chicago Marathon. God willing, I’ll get there.

Marathon week has arrived. Technically. And I’m going through the motions of the taper. I’m retaining water, which is messing with my head. I’m running fewer miles…which is messing with my body. And I’m a basket case of emotions, which is messing with my friends, family, and co-workers.

But it’s here. At last.

On June 10th…I woke up at 3:30 a.m. to eat something small, drink water, get dressed, and head out to run. It was raining. Pouring, in fact. But no one guarantees perfect weather on race day. So, without even blinking, I grabbed a hat, got my reflective gear flashing, and went to head out the door. Except I was greeted with a message from my roommate, which, to this day, still hangs on the back of the front door. She was in her room, still asleep, but this was how she was showing her support…and every morning from that day when I struck out for 5 miles easy (which I did with hills, mind you!), I took everything on this little sign in…and used it as a mantra:

Roomie shows her support...with a sign on the back of the front door! — Roomie shows her support…with a sign on the back of the front door!

Inspirational, yes?

And with early morning runs every week, early morning runs every weekend, some fun runs, some races, some mile sprints, speed work, pacing work, and just finding out more about what I can and can’t do…pushing through it all…I arrive…at race week.

Sunday, October 13, 2013 marks the date for the Chicago Marathon. My first 26.2 miles. My first full marathon. A part of me feels so ready. But a bigger part of me is doubting my abilities, not wanting to believe all the hard work I put in through training for 4 months was good enough. Or, that I’m just not ready. This is normal. And I know…deep in my heart…I’m ready.

I. AM. READY.

So…let’s see how this final week of training leading up to race day went, shall we?

Sunday was a rainy, rainy, rainy morning. Sunday is a rest day, but I often go for another run, keeping pace easy and distance minimal. I don’t want to over train, but I go stir crazy at times. I had told the roomie that since I was in taper, I would simply do 5 short miles…at the gym if the weather was bad. Well, it was raining…I’ve run in the pouring rain before. I could have gone to the gym…sure…but the very thought of hopping on a treadmill was unappetizing. For real. So, I laced up my old Nike running shoes, put on my reflective gear, slapped on a hat, and went out for a run. What I didn’t know (because I don’t have cable nor do I watch television) was that we had flooding in our area. This should have been apparent in the first mile when I was warming up and kept splashing in pretty deep puddles. But as I hit the roads, nothing prepared me for the ankle deep water I ended up trudging through. I turned around and went the other way, only to be greeted with the same situation that way too. Flooding…does not make for good running. But, I laughed. I was having a good time. The puddles were everywhere…some ankle deep without me being able to tell…and every time I hit one…it just made me smile. I mean…what can you do? I logged my miles, went home, stuffed my shoes with newspaper, and went to take a shower and get dried off. The rain stopped later in the morning. Go figure. It was a good way to start the week though…which I needed as I continued to struggle with my taper demons.

Monday morning greeted me with 4 miles. I was supposed to do 4 miles at marathon pace…but I decided to move my speed work up a day. It was my last day of speed work, and my schedule was going to be pretty insane this week. Doing it on Monday was the best way to do it. I did an easy warm up of 1/2 mile at my long slow distance pace. Then it was 1 x 4800 meters (3 miles) at marathon pace. Followed that up with 1/2 mile at my long slow distance pace for a cool down. My body is playing tricks on me…with the water retention and all. The run felt good. And I still think I need to push myself a bit more on my speed work, but this was a good run. I actually enjoyed my speed work for once. And, naturally, being Monday…the Daily Double struck. I headed to my running store for the running group that evening. They decided to do the Pumpkin Run…so we went on a run past the house in the Highlands with all the pumpkins…then continued on to Cherokee Park. We were to run the loop backwards…but Patrick (it’s always Patrick said we would run the loop regular, make a full loop and then head back. Meaning…Dog Hill…TWICE! The man is insane…and yet I somehow I always get suckered into doing it. It was challenging…and I like challenging. After the morning speed work, I didn’t think my legs would do well on the hills on the loop, or the speed that Patrick was pushing. I was behind the two others who actually did run the loop, but I was feeling good. I kept pushing…and I caught up on Eastern Parkway. It was a good feeling. And I really needed that. Granted, it was a bit disrespectful of the taper…and ended up being 5.4 additional miles that day…but I was elated with how I managed to take those hills and maintain a great pace. I had a feeling my legs would feel it in the morning, however.

Tuesday morning greeted me with an early wake-up call and 45 degree weather. It was brisk and amazing outside. I was in my shorts and short sleeves and ready to take on the cooler weather. The training program called for 4 miles at marathon pace today. So, I went and rocked it out. In fact, I took these 4 miles faster than my estimated marathon pace. The legs weren’t even feeling the two hard runs from the day before. They were ready and raring and just enjoying hitting the pavement that morning. I managed beautiful negative splits. And then…my last day at the gym this week. Since it is Tuesday, I hit up the Arc Trainer – Program 1 – Level 5 for 45 minutes and churned out a fantastic 2.8 miles. I was having a great work out day!! Seriously. After the Arc Trainer…I went over to the rowing machine to get that full-body cross-training effect. I have a love/hate relationship with this machine, but I managed 1.18 miles in 10 minutes, which is pretty good for me. After that, downstairs I went for some strength training before calling it a day and heading to work.

Wednesday was my last run before the taper really hit with some down time. The plan called for another 4 miles at marathon pace. Which…I did get out and do, once again, in the dark and cool morning. I even managed some negative splits. I honestly didn’t feel like I was pushing too hard or struggling for that next mile, which is only a good thing. My pace was good, my breathing was good, and my legs were starting to feel the effects of less mileage. They weren’t as tired or as heavy. And it just felt good out there running. I finished in amazing time and feeling strong and good. But really dreading the days ahead. Me going without running is like…being without air. I don’t cope well. So, watch out world…I’m tapering…big time.

Thursday morning was rough. I got up later, because the body needs rest on rest days and as tempting as it was to get up at normal time and go for one of my brisk walks…I need to respect these important days of rest and recovery. Because that’s what my body needs to do in preparation for Sunday. This doesn’t mean that I just sat around all day. I made a healthy breakfast that morning. I took a package down to the car. I walked around Harvest Homecoming in New Albany twice that day. Just to not be sitting at my desk the entire time. I stretched. I foam rolled. I made sure I was taking in good carbs, good protein, and healthy fats…topping off my tanks. I was taking care of me and getting my body ready. And, it was hard…and I might have whined a couple of times…but I soldiered through. A day of rest…it was tough. But I got there.

Friday was the second day of complete rest. I, once again, let my body rest in the morning, sleeping in and setting my alarm for much later than I would normally wake up. I had a few things I needed to go get at the grocery store that morning, and although it is just a mile and a half up the street…I didn’t walk. I drove. I didn’t skim the aisles, but went immediately to what it was that I needed. I went home. I baked some treats for Chicago. I made breakfast at the same time. I enjoyed a protein-filled breakfast with fruit on the side and a fantastic caramelized apple parfait with some Greek yogurt. Yummy! I went to work. I enjoyed easy strolls through Harvest Homecoming once again. I moved around from my desk as much as I could manage with my work load. I left work and came home to pack. I didn’t pack…because when I’m nervous I find things to distract me…like hand washing clothes. I know…I’m weird. Jenn arrived from Ohio…and she and Cathy put me on task to pack…so I did. Eventually. Then we headed out to dinner. Jenn chose Dakshin, an amazing Indian restaurant in Louisville. I had the Dal Tadke Wali, which is home style yellow lentils tempered with Indian spices. It was SO good. And vegan. And that meant…good and safe. I had it over delicious rice. Carbs. Protein. Topping off those tanks properly. We treated ourselves to Comfy Cow afterwards. Then it was home to watch Spirit of the Marathon and Marathon Thoughts…then getting some much needed sleep.

Saturday…it’s here. The day before my first marathon. And I’m a mixed bag of emotions. I got up at 4 a.m. to do my shakeout run. And the rest days paid off. My legs feel good and strong and amazing. I didn’t push my pace. Didn’t push anything. Now was not the time to try to hit a best time. Now was the time to just let my legs do what they wanted to. And every moment of this run felt good. I enjoyed it…taking in the still, dark morning. It was in the low 50s too, which helped make it feel even more effortless. Temperatures on race morning in Chicago will be around 48 degrees. I can’t wait. I’m feeling amazing…which is making me feel better about a lot of things. So, out for a 3 mile easy run…and now I’m going to make up breakfast so we can pile in the car and make the trek to Chicago. Going to hit up the expo and meet up with Heather and have a good time.

So…this has been a physically and mentally challenging week. But I have made it through the taper and on Sunday, I will get to see if taper madness really does translate into taper magic. Because…I have not been a happy person this week. Running shorter mileage…not running…it’s been driving me insane.

Not to mention, I’m an emotional wreck as it is. I’ve been having moments of complete panic and what I call…race panic. I have these freak-out moments and I just have to remind myself to breathe. Just breathe. And I know I can do this. I’ve put in a lot of long hours on the road. I’ve put in so much time, so much effort, and I know I have a lot of people cheering for me…all over the country and the world. And that’s pretty awesome, yes?

So…there it is. 18 weeks of long, hard training…18 weeks…and I finally arrive at the place I’ve been training for. When I started this journey it felt so far away. The race is now…tomorrow.

I hope I’m ready.

Chicago…here we go…

Chicago Marathon - Sunday, October 13, 2013 — Chicago Marathon – Sunday, October 13, 2013

October 11, 2013

One final push for an amazing cause!

Action For Healthy Kids - Chicago Marathon — Action For Healthy Kids – Chicago Marathon

Hello fellow friends and readers.

As you know, for the past 18 weeks I have been training hard to run in the Chicago Marathon. And while I registered independently, I decided to go ahead and sign up to help a charity. I chose Action For Healthy Kids.

You can read more about this cause in my blog I did a couple months ago…here.

As a refresher…

Action for Healthy Kids dedicates itself to developing, in children, lifelong habits necessary to promote health and learning. Their primary focus is the epidemic of childhood obesity, undernourishment and physical inactivity found in today’s children here in the United States. This organization partners with dedicated volunteers – teachers, students, moms, dads, school wellness experts and more – to create healthful school changes. Action for Healthy Kids is giving kids the keys to health and academic success by meeting them in the classroom, the cafeteria and on the playground, dishing out fun physical activity and nutrition lessons and changes that will help foster in nutritious eating habits and active play every day.

It’s a fantastic cause…as most children today spend so much time parked in front of a television, a game console, a tablet, a computer, etc. Exercise and activity fall to the wayside.

In TWO days I will be running the Chicago Marathon…so this is one final push for donations. No amount is too small. And every little bit helps.

You can go to my donation page…here:

http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/KarenBrady/2013-bank-of-america-chicago-marathon

Thank you so much for all your support as I’ve been working toward these 26.2 miles. You will all be with me on that course on Sunday.

October 5, 2013

Marathon Training Week #17 – The heart of the matter

Taper madness continues. Along with a lot of outside stress…inner doubt…and really learning to rest this body. It’s not easy. I love my runs, especially my long runs. And having my mileage cut back hasn’t been easy for me. Neither has this entire week for that matter. Never before have I felt like the weight of the world was pushing on my shoulders. And, honestly, my week had gotten off to a good start. I was feeling good. I was making good decisions. I was training right.

But all it takes is one thing to throw everything out of whack. That’s what happened this week and it lead to stress…stress…stress eating…difficult runs…lots of crying…and more stress.

You see, on Monday morning, my roommate, Cathy, woke up and came out of her room looking panicked. She said she had a bad dream and now her heart was racing. Sort of like a panic attack. She went to the doctor that morning and was tentatively diagnosed with Atrial fibrillation (A Fib), which is an irregular and often rapid heart rate that causes poor blood flow to the body. During A fib, the heart’s upper two chambers beat chaotically and irregularly, out of coordination with the two lower chambers. She was admitted to Floyd Memorial Hospital…and that was her home until Thursday afternoon. And I was bouncing back and forth between being at the hospital with her, work, training, and working at home. There wasn’t any downtime this week. The good news is…her heart eased back into its natural rhythm on its own. She had been taken to have a procedure done on Wednesday morning that would involve giving her heart a shock to put it back into its natural rhythm, but her heart had already managed to do that. So, she’s on a blood thinner and a medication to slow down the beating of her heart. Yeah…it’s pretty scary stuff. But, I’m happy to report that she is recovering well, taking her medications, and getting back to normal.

All that being said…training seemed impossible…and impossibly hard this week. Somehow…somehow I managed to get it all in, visit the hospital twice a day, work at the office my normal hours, and work at home after leaving the hospital at the end of visiting hours (8:30 p.m.). This meant there were a lot of very late nights and early mornings. It was a hard week and I would be lying if I said that I didn’t sit down at the office and cry a few times at my desk…or cry in the car…or call my mom and cry…or just have a hard cry while out on my run. It didn’t always make me feel better…sometimes it made me feel worse…but…things happen for a reason. And I know if I can make it through this…I can make it through 26.2 miles in Chicago.

While the week started off great…it took a steep downturn starting Monday after my first run. Let’s take a look at how stress and restlessness turned me into one exhausted runner. I have never felt so physically and mentally wiped in my life. This week…felt harder than any other before it.

Sunday is my other day of rest, which I often use to take a second long run. This run is always shorter than the previous day’s run. And, I also had to meet with Donna, my sports nutritionist, that morning. So, I was out early and getting that run in. I had decided I would go either 8 or 9 miles, whatever I was feeling, really. I wasn’t feeling too good about things. Water retention was becoming an issue and each morning I was waking up feeling bloated and just…fat. Honestly. Turns out, after meeting with Donna, water retention happens during the taper. I should not panic over it or fuss over it. It’s natural. Whew. Because, honestly…I was starting to wonder what was happening. Apparently being very tired and sluggish is another side effect of the taper. Good to know these things. I am so blessed to have Donna seeing me through my training and giving me advice and information I wouldn’t have thought of before. Anyway, I ended up rocking out 9 miles Sunday morning before the sun came up. I kept the pace easy and slower, wanting to keep it challenging, but not push too much. And that’s what I did. I felt really good at the end of it. The run felt good. And in the end…that’s the important thing.

Monday started off great. I was scheduled to do 6 miles easy that morning. And when I set out in the dark, I did just that. I just pressed on. No need to stop for anything. Even on the hills I randomly chose to throw in there, my legs felt good and strong and I was having a very, very good start to the day. Came home to make breakfast and that was when the shit hit the fan. Cathy woke up with the heart arrhythmia, which stressed her out…which stressed me out…which just spiraled into one of the worst mornings ever. The gorgeous and nutritious breakfast I made (veggie egg white scramble with homemade breakfast potatoes and a caramelized apple and Greek yogurt parfait) was thrown away. A doctors appointment was scheduled…then a trip to the hospital…which lead to a hospital stay. I briefly ducked back into the office when Cathy’s mom came to relieve me at the hospital and grabbed some work to do from home that night. I came home and had to go run some of this pressure off. So, I laced up my Newtons and went for a soul cleansing 3 mile run. I didn’t want to be gone too long…just needed to do something to take the some stress off my shoulders and try to ease my own heart. The run was cleansing…but it was soon back to reality. I headed back to the hospital and stayed with Cathy, meeting her doctor, hearing what he was recommending (lots of tests in the morning!), and staying until the last possible moment I could. Cathy had never stayed overnight in the hospital…and as much as I didn’t want to leave her there because of how stressed out she was…I had to go home. Came home, ate a dinner consisting of Greek yogurt and red grapes, then worked until the wee hours of the night before calling it quits.

Tuesday is normally my cross-training day. But I changed it up. Tuesday, I decided I needed to do my speed work. It was the day I was dreading most…and that morning I just needed to feel my heart beat fast and hard and have my legs and body pushed beyond limits. I hadn’t slept well the night before, having only managed about 3 hours of sleep if that. But speed work was happening. I did a 1 mile warm up, then hit the paces with 8 x 800 meters with a 2 minute recovery, then a 1 mile cool down. 8 miles total. I needed that run to battle exhausting, battle my inner demons, battle my emotions. I needed it that morning. Not Wednesday…but Tuesday. Afterwards, I returned to the apartment and showered, then packed up some fruit to have for breakfast (banana, apple with almond butter, grapes), grabbed my lunch for work and headed out the door to the hospital to visit with Cathy. She had her EKG early in the morning. But that morning they were going to take her down for her Echocardiogram. I was there and talking to her (she hadn’t slept much either) until they arrived to take her down for her test. I told her I’d be back after work, and headed into the office. Back to the hospital I went, as promised, immediately following work. We were going to get test results that evening, but her doctor didn’t show up until very late, again. The news was that her tests were fine. There was no serious cause to her A fib. It was brought on by outside factors…stress, anxiety, etc. So, he gave her two treatment options…medicine…or the shock. To my surprise…she chose the shock to the heart. So…they went ahead and had that scheduled for Wednesday morning. It was after visiting hours when I left…got home…had another dinner of Greek yogurt and red grapes, and worked from home until late again.

Wednesday was another early morning. It was also cross-training day. I went to the gym right when it opened at 5 a.m. And I decided to change things up. I did my strength training first. Which felt good. Then, I hit up the Cardio Wave machine. I rocked that one out, despite an exhausted body and tired legs from speed work and late nights…and a not so good dinner the past two nights. After that, I got on the Arc Trainer for 45 minutes and rocked out an amazing 2.75 miles with challenging resistances, inclines, and intervals. I felt good at the end of the morning. I came home, quickly showered, packed up an apple and some grapes to eat at the office and headed back to the hospital. I met up with Cathy’s mom and sister in the elevator and the three of us went to Cathy’s room. She was asleep, but her mom woke her up. We chatted until they came to get her for her procedure. Lots of hugs and well wishes happened outside the cardio unit. I left after they took her back, having a good cry on the way to work. Good news came though when her mom texted and said Cathy was doing fine and that nothing had to be done…she naturally went back to her normal rhythm. It was a relief to be sure. I stopped by after work and stayed with her until her doctor came in. He told her she had to stay overnight, which bummed her out beyond belief, and he was putting her on a blood thinner and a medicine for her heart…but that she could go home on Thursday. I asked if it would be in the morning, and he said it would. So…I left and went to get some work done, once again making a late dinner out of Greek yogurt and grapes, and managed to do as much as I could before fatigue hit me hard. I called it a night and tried to get some sleep.

Thursday morning greeted me and I had an easy 3 mile run to do. I managed that, cursing the taper the entire time. But I did rock the run, and that was the important thing. I felt solid and strong logging those short miles. Then, I hit up the gym. I did just the elliptical machine, keeping the setting at Level 7, but dialing back on intensity. Too close to the marathon to do something stupid, and my body was fighting me. It was just done with everything. Tired doesn’t even begin to describe how I was feeling at that point. I was just…dead on my feet. So, listening to my body, I skipped the other cardio machine and did some easy strength training downstairs before hitting up the apartment again, showering, and getting to the hospital at 7 a.m. Cathy was supposed to be released that morning. She was starving, mind you, when I was there and after she woke up…so I gave her the grapes I had brought with me. Which is good because the breakfast they brought her was not what she ordered the night before. She picked at it. Around 10:00, her mom showed up and I left to do some work from home, assuming that despite the promise that she would be released in the morning, it might be an all day thing. I was wrong. 45 minutes later, I was texted saying they were doing Cathy’s release papers. So, I booked it over to the hospital to retrieve her. Hurry up and wait. Trust me. It took another 2 hours to get her out of there. And from there…a trip to the pharmacy for her prescriptions. She finally settled in at home just before 1:30 p.m. It made for a long morning. I was working from home to keep an eye on her, and made her some lunch. Then later…at her request…I made a baked mushroom and Parmesan risotto for dinner. All while doing my work and trying to keep up with things at the office from home.

Friday is my day of rest. And I am doing my best to keep it holy and respect it. I admit…I did go out on a 5 mile walk. I KNOW!! BAD!! But I just needed to be moving. I knew I was working from home and that would mean little movement that day because I had work that needed to get done. So, I did this thing where I would walk/jog for a mile…then walk a mile…then repeat. For 5 miles…because it felt so good to just be moving. I didn’t push for speed or anything…I just needed to be active. I needed to be doing something that didn’t involve sitting at home in front of my computer. I ducked over to the office to drop off work, pick up new work, then headed home. I made breakfast for Cathy and I and then spent the rest of the day working while she watched movies and Star Trek. I ducked back to the office to sort and open mail and pick up more work. All the hours I had put in at home added up…and I was actually right at my 40 hour week. So, I was sent home for the rest of the day. And I vegged. Dinner was leftover risotto, so that was easy. And Cathy said she was feeling 70% normal that day. Getting there.

Saturday is my long run day. And, sadly, these long runs as of late have had to be done solo for the pacing requirements of my training program. Today…only 8 miles…but these were paced. My first 2 miles were to be at my long slow distance pace. Miles 3-7 were to be at my marathon pace. Mile 8…back into long slow distance. I wasn’t really feeling this. I miss running with my Saturday group something fierce. Honestly. But, I got out at 5 a.m. and turned out my 8 miles. All 8 miles were actually at my marathon pace, which is good because I didn’t always feel like I was pushing or running hard. This means my legs are stronger than my body and mind think they are. I pressed on all 8 miles and felt really good when the run came to an end. I had only wished it had been a longer run. Aside from that…Chicago is 8 days away and I’m getting really nervous and trying hard not to put too much pressure on myself. I want to enjoy my first marathon and I’m feeling as ready as I can be. The taper edges into almost nothing this week…and my body will take time to repair itself and get strong. Because next Sunday…I go the distance.

It’s been a very trying, very difficult, very stressful week. But I feel if I could maintain my training and battle through this load of stress, doubt, fear, and anxiety and come out strong on the other end (which I feel is what happened)…then I can do battle with the streets of Chicago and prove to myself I have it in me to be a marathoner!! I am really giving myself a pep talk. I did a lot…and I mean…a lot of stress eating this past week. Being this close to my marathon, I don’t want anything to derail the hard work I have put into training for this. This means controlling all stress, anxiety, and every other emotion not through stress eating but through healthier outlets. I think that’s doable.

With Cathy on the mend, the taper coming to an end, and my marathon looming RIGHT THERE on the horizon…I have a feeling I’ll be a basket case this entire week. But, as my friend Dawn told me, now is the time to trust my training and know that when I get to that starting line in Chicago…all this hard work I’ve put into these past few months will have paid off. I can only hope.

That being said…I have my bib number for Chicago…and the participant’s guide…and things are seeming very, very real to me now. Almost there…so close…just trying not to cave under pressure or wear myself out getting there. Yeah…the nerves have kicked in. It’s very real now.

September 28, 2013May 11, 2015

Marathon Training Week #16 – Easing into the taper

Taper Madness.

It’s very real. And I am trying very, very, very hard not to let it affect me. In fact, Runner’s World couldn’t have been more timely when they published an article on Taper Madness and how to go into the taper and feel good as you go through it. Some runners, honestly, look forward to the taper. I am not one of those runners. Cutting back on mileage is not easy for me. I love my long distance runs. I do them with people and I do them alone. Either way, I enjoy them. But cutting down has proven to be a bit of a challenge for me.

Thankfully, there wasn’t too much of a difference in this first week of the taper. It was sort of like going into a cut-back week during normal training. Maybe these marathon training planners do know what they are doing. I promise…I am respecting my taper. I swore I would and I intend to do so.

So, as my miles get shorter…let’s take a look at how I’m dealing this week.

Sunday was a busy day for me. I was having my birthday get-together with some peeps. Many of my friends made it out. A couple ended up not being able to make it. My roomie and I had our friend Greg in town…so…that being said…I knew I needed to get up and moving that morning if I was going to get my long run in. Having run 24 miles the day before I had no plans for speed. In fact, I wore my heavier shoes to keep my pace slow and steady. I was aiming for 10 miles that morning, and I managed an easy (although at times it felt hard) 10 miles before heading back to the apartment and getting showered and making some gluten-free madeleines for breakfast. The rest of the day we were out and about before my favorite local food truck, Sweet ‘N’ Savory catered my birthday party at The Beer Store in Louisville, Kentucky. My roomie got me a gluten-free beer to try…blech…still not into beer. Just not my thing. I stuck mostly to the water and was served up one of the most amazing three course meals of my life. FROM A FOOD TRUCK!! Richard and Ashley do fantastic work, but they really did some amazing things. I was the only gluten-free person at the get-together, but everyone enjoyed the appetizer gluten-free savory crepes, the gluten-free ravioli for the entree, and the gluten-free crepe suzette with their homemade gelato for dessert. We were all very full at the end but everyone enjoyed the food. I think it was one of my favorite get-togethers yet. So many different personalities and people and yet…we all came together for good food and a good time. It was a good Sunday.

And Monday definitely came around way too soon. My training plan called for 6 easy miles, so I was up and at it early. The darkness no longer slows me down…but what does slow me down is super tight hamstrings. The morning air felt great, but my legs weren’t wanting to move as they normally would. I foam rolled after I hit my mileage, slower than normal, but I was okay with that. I was going the distance, not going for speed and I do not push when something is twinging. After work and a quick dinner, I was back out for my Monday Daily Double…with my running group. That night we were going to go a different route because a tree had gone down somewhere up the way and they were sculpting it into…something. Laura had heard about it and was going to lead us that way. She said that she was going to block me from running out ahead because I was in taper mode. It actually worked and I loved her for this! I have good friends in the running community. As it turns out, they had finished the sculpture and the tree now was a castle with a dragon wrapped around it. It was AWESOME. We completed the run after stopping to marvel at the tree art. Ellen and I stuck together, talked while we ran. She said I pushed her at the end, and we finished up a full 3 miles together. She said my easy pace was pushing it for her, but it felt great. And we hit wicked negative splits. Despite my tight hamstrings…we had a great run. After a shower, foam rolling commenced once more.

Tuesday was my cross-training day. So, no running. These no running days are the most difficult part of training. I just want to hop out of bed and put in some miles. But…I behaved. I hit up the gym and hopped on the Arc Trainer for 45 minutes, using Program 1 – Level 5 and managing 2.79 miles. Not bad. I love and hate that machine. But it’s great for cross training. After that, it was the rowing machine for 10 minutes. The rowing machine is tedious…and boring. But…it works so much of your body. I always feel it after the workout. After that, I went downstairs for some strength training before heading into the office. But my day didn’t stop there. After work, it was right into my circuit training. This new routine kicks my butt every time. Seriously. But that’s good. Honestly.

Wednesday morning I woke to the task of hitting 7 miles with Negative Splits in my marathon training. Pacing and speed work days are my least favorite of the week. But, they are necessary. So, I started off slow and steady and picked it up with each mile. I didn’t feel like I was actually doing the whole negative split thing, but when I hit 7 miles, I surprised myself. I actually had managed those negative splits. It felt good out there that morning. I didn’t push too hard, because my legs were still feeling my runs from earlier in the week, but the hamstrings were feeling loose again and much better. So, I kept it challenging…just didn’t push my luck. Quite happy with it.

Thursday morning was another 7 mile run…this time at an easy pace. I decided that I would take my Newtons out for a spin. It would be the longest distance that I had run in them since I purchased them, usually keeping them on for my fun run Mondays or some light jogging on Friday. But, I’m doing this whole shoe rotation thing and I figured…why not? I love these shoes. You either love or hate these shoes, but I love them. My 7 easy miles were done, once again, with negative splits and I shaved a full minute off my time from the day before. If I had gotten these shoes sooner, I would probably wear them in my marathon…but…that might have to wait for another time.

Friday is the dreaded day of rest…that I respect and keep holy. Kind of. I went out for a walk, because if I don’t, I sit at my desk all day on Friday working my ass off in front of the computer. So, this was necessary. I had on my walking shoes, so I kept a great pace, and did some light jogging on the straightaways. I ended up doing this walk/jog thing for 4 miles that morning, which didn’t take me too long. Still had plenty of time to make some coffee and get some breakfast ready before resting my legs for the remainder of the day. I had a lot going on at the office, but at the back of my mind I kept thinking about my long run…

Saturday…the long run day. Not as long a run for me this week. Like I said…tapering. BLECH. Anyway, my training plan called for a paced…yes…a paced 12 mile long run. What does this mean? As laid out by the plan, I was to run certain miles at certain paces. I wasn’t feeling too confident about it. And…I was going this one alone. Lots of things were now going on during the day Saturday, so meeting up with my peeps wasn’t going to happen. BUMMER. I was lacking motivation this morning. I hit the snooze button on my alarm, goofed around online, but finally decided the miles and paces weren’t going to run themselves. I made myself a deal…focus on the distance…I knew I could run the paces…so if I didn’t hit it…whatever. The distance is what matters. The training plan called for Miles 1-2 to be done at my Long Slow Distance pace; Miles 3-11 at Marathon Pace; Mile 12 at Long Slow Distance Pace. I nailed it. In fact, I once again ran most of the miles faster than necessary. I am working on that because I don’t want to be burned out when I am in my marathon. I want to feel strong and good at the end. Anyway…I was pleased with the way this run turned out. It wasn’t easy…but I pushed through and showed that I didn’t have to doubt myself. I am quite capable of these paced long runs. I just never feel like I’m strong enough or good enough. And that’s something i need to get over.

Next week the taper gets very real. I keep eying the training schedule and shaking my head. It will be so hard to work around the cutback on the miles, but I will do it…and I will continue to respect the lower mileage because I know what it is doing is getting my body ready for the big day. My muscles are healing, getting stronger, and getting prepared. And because of that…I will work through the miles as laid out by my plan. It’s not easy…but I’ll manage.

Taper Madness…I can get through this, right?

September 22, 2013

Marathon Training Week #15 – Climbing one last mountain before the taper

Oy! What a week this has been. I’ve certainly been keeping myself busy, not just with a new position at work (and getting settled into that…which hasn’t been too difficult, but I had to move my desk and get comfortable in a new area with different people around and new stresses), turning 33, and maintaining my training schedule through a very tiring, very trying week.

When I say tiring…I do mean that I am physically tired. Perhaps it is a good thing that after my run on Saturday morning the official taper begins. I said perhaps…because while a lot of runners I know love and truly enjoy their tapers…I get taper madness. I do not taper well. At all. Cutting back on mileage will be a relief to some, but I love being out on those roads. I know that the taper is an important step to arriving to my race recharged and ready…so I will abide by it. But I might not be the most pleasant person to be around.

Fair warning.

That being said…with the taper on the horizon this week ushered in my last 20 mile run in my program (which I technically did last week…but I have a pace one in my schedule that I didn’t abide by…meaning I ran the mileage but not at the paces suggested…) so I figured I would at least attempt it. I might fail. I might fail hard. But I’m going to at least make the effort. If I fail, I dust myself off and try again another time. Pacing is not my strong point. I tend to run hard most of the time and have to remind myself to take an easier effort. This is why running with groups is good for me. But with the pace requirements on Saturday…I chose to go solo.

But…before I get into that…let’s take a look at this past week’s training…

Sunday morning meant another very early morning for me. I was meeting with the running group my friend Kelsie runs with on weekends for their long run. They were doing 18 today. And after doing 20 on Saturday, I wasn’t sure I’d be able to keep up. I also had gotten to bed a lot later than planned because I was watching Star Trek: Into Darkness, which was important, you see. So, the original plan had been to watch the movie and get to bed on time…but…yeah…not so much. I got up at 3:30 a.m. to lather on the sunscreen (for another dark run!) and eat before hopping in my car and meeting up with the Indiana contingent of the running group at the designated meeting spot. We all car pooled over to the Kroger near Papa John’s Stadium in Louisville where we met up with the rest of the group. One runner was only doing half the mileage, so we started out in Iroquois Park. We ran from the Kroger through the darkness, giving fair warning to the other runners in the group when poles in the running/bike lane cropped up. No need to have someone collide with that. YIKES! We entered the park and started on our way. Let me tell you…Iroquois Park isn’t really in the best part of Louisville…and it is really creepy in the darkness. We heard strange noises in the woods, which urged quite a few of us to pick up our pace in the end. Not being able to see the looming hills of Iroquois, for me, definitely made navigating them easier. I ran for most of these 18 miles with Lori, who is really great and pushing the pace in the difficult parts. We left the park and the hills behind and went on to the flatter roads of the city. Here, we simply ran 4.5 miles straight down a road, then turned around and headed back. The problem was, we had to change up the route due to one of the roads being one way, so when we got back to Kroger, we still had just under a mile to go. So, Lori and I decided we would run up the street until we hit 17.5 and then turn around and run back, and when we hit 18…we’d cool down with a walk back to the cars in the parking lot at Kroger. Alicia, one of the other ladies in the group, is nursing a foot injury of some sort. She was not looking good at the end of the race, but it seems like taking time off to heal isn’t part of her plan. YIKES! I hope she can at least let it heal up so that it won’t be as painful or that she puts herself out of commission. We runners do some really stupid and silly things in the name of our training…but with me being so close to my race…I err on the side of caution. Anyway…it was a cool and crisp morning that led into a really great run. I had a great time.

Monday…always comes too soon. Another later than usual bed time for me. This time because I was watching Dr. Who (the Ninth Doctor…in case you were wondering) when my phone rang. It was my mom…and sometimes we just get to talking and talking and talking…and before I knew it, an entire hour had passed. And it was beyond my bed time. SO…my roomie and I shut off the television and I went and crashed out. Because Monday morning had a 6 mile easy run on the schedule. I woke up feeling less than refreshed. On top of that…the 70° weather in the morning returned. I really had to push myself on this run. Not only was I tired…but my legs were tired too. Somehow…and I still don’t know how…I managed some negative splits. Not bad for running through exhaustion. And…as we all know by now…Monday is also my Daily Double. My fun run group meets on Monday…so after having a really easy dinner of grilled cheese…I was out the door and heading to Louisville. My roomie was driving, thank goodness, because I was falling asleep on the way over. This is so out of character for me, but I just couldn’t keep my eyes open. We got to the running store and my friend, Natalie, was talking about how tired she was too. I told her we could run easy and be the tail end of the group today…which sounded like a plan. But then, as we ran into Cherokee Park, our Ironman, Patrick, called out…”Hey…let’s do hill repeats!” Mind you, I have been pushing for hill repeat sessions with the fun run group for awhile and kept getting vetoed. He said we’d run each hill three times…which meant the hill going up to Hogan’s Fountain and Dog Hill were going to be our hill repeaters. At first I thought he was kidding, but he said we should do it. So…about 6 of us started off doing it…while the rest of the group ran on to just do the Scenic Loop. These are not easy hills to run, and I was wearing my Newtons, wanting to break them in on an easy run. HA! Well, no time like the present. The six of us regrouped at the top, just past Hogan’s Fountain when our first three hill repeats were done. From there, we took an easy pace through the park on the Scenic Loop, making jokes about running every incline, even the small ones, three times. We didn’t…but I imagine that would make one really amusing YouTube video. We grabbed some water at the water fountain and we were already 3 miles in. I’d be finishing up if I was just doing the loop, but I was only halfway there. And Dog Hill was, literally, right around the corner. There were times I felt like bailing, but I never quit on a challenge. So three times up and down Dog Hill…and I was suddenly feeling very bad ass. Honestly, these were hard…but I pushed myself through them. With tired legs and a tired body…I gave it all I had and in the end…I felt like I conquered the world. It was a light run back to the store, except we only needed .25 more of a mile to hit 6 miles, and I like round numbers. So…the four of us that remained (the other two bailed on Dog Hill) rounded the corner and ran down an alley until we could turn around and head back to the store. Another 6 miles on Monday for me. 12 in one day. Whew.

Tuesday is the Cross Training Day. And with my marathon coming up, I have been taking it a little easier on the machines. After all, I refuse to do something stupid that will cost me valuable training time or knock me out of commission for my race. It is not happening. So, my early morning at the gym meant that I hit up the Arc Trainer. Because it’s Arc Trainer Tuesday. For me, anyway. This time I set it for Program 8, which is the Cardio program, and kept it at Level 5, which gave me a bunch of different inclines and resistances to work with. I ended up managing 2.18 miles with the various hills and resistances in 45 minutes. Not bad. From there…my least favorite machine…the stationary bike…was next. I don’t know what it is about the stationary bike, but I hate it. It bores me. I think it’s that I’m putting in so much effort and not actually getting anywhere. The same reason I hate the treadmill (dreadmill). But I powered through 10 minutes on that bike, which is really all I could stand to be honest, and got in 3.84 miles. Not bad considering how dead-to-the-world my legs felt. Went downstairs to do some strength training and then went into work.

Wednesday is my pacing/speed work day. This one called for an 8 mile tempo run. I am awful at pacing. And doing it in the dark when I really can’t make sure I am on pace makes it even more difficult. I had this inner voice in my head for much of the way telling me that I can’t do it. I can’t maintain the pace I was holding. But…I shut them up and pushed through those doubts and proved that I could. In fact, I ended up doing more negative splits than tempo pace. Whoops. But that last mile…I pushed out a sub-7 minute mile and that felt amazing. It was something I really needed. So, pacing needs some work…but damn…that felt good. Later that night, after work, I started a new circuit training routine. Holy crap…this one had me sweating from the start. Not easy. Nice to change it up, but damn. I knew I’d be feeling that one in the morning.

Thursday was more than just my second easy run of the week. September 19 also marked my birthday. This year…I was turning 33. Ironically, my training plan had a second cross training day in…which I would be doing. No run was actually scheduled, probably in preparation for the upcoming long run (20 miler) on Saturday. But…I had to run on my birthday. Ever since I started running, I’ve run on my birthday. Since I turned 33, and there was no way I would be running 33 miles and running 33 kilometers would be 20 miles…I didn’t have time for that either. So…I figured another 6 miles would be perfect…since 3+3=6. It seemed perfect. It was 70° that morning, but I didn’t let that get to me. I refused. I pushed through and turned out the most beautiful and perfect negative splits. A great birthday gift to myself, for sure. After that, I headed to the gym for the cross training. I ended up on the broken elliptical that day…which doesn’t configure the stride right. So, while I was probably using more effort trying to match my normal mileage, it wasn’t happening. In 49 minutes, I managed 8.57 miles. Ugh. After that, I moved on to 10 minutes on the Cardio Wave machine…and rocked out 4.14 miles. I alternated between two of the higher levels. Then it was downstairs to hit the weights for a bit of strength training before heading to the office for a long day at work. Trust me though…my Wonder Woman cake that my local allergen-free bakery made for me was consumed greedily that evening after a dinner of gluten-free and vegan grilled cheese (stuffed with kale and tomato, YUM!).

Friday is the rest day. Ah…the rest day. The rest day that I said I would respect and keep holy. I normally go for a walk…but I have these great Newtons I’m working on breaking in and getting used to how they feel…I decided I would, for the second week in a row, take them out for an easy jog. Nothing hard. No pushing. Easy does it. Just as what happened last year when I wore the Newtons…I actually turned out fantastic mileage. In fact, I ran a rather quick 2 miles in them, without feeling like I was running. I decided to cool down then with really easy running…and that actually turned out a faster 2 miles (total of 4 that morning), and it felt like a walk in the park. In fact, my last mile was, for the second time this week…a sub-7. I was shocked. It just didn’t even feel like I was working hard. But…I ended that session there, despite feeling like I could go on. I’m easing into the mileage in these because it is working my legs differently and my muscles feel it. Besides…my last (and third) 20 mile run of my training program.

Saturday morning. This was it. The last 20 mile run of my training plan. After this…the taper would start. I had skipped the 20 mile intervals in my previous 20 mile run, opting instead to run it with people. But I know how important pacing and intervals are and I really, really didn’t want to ignore that run. So…as I was going on my own for my run today…I figured this last 20 miler would be the perfect opportunity to work through it. I also decided that I needed to simulate race day as much as possible…and that meant running a relatively flat course. Chicago, after all, is flat. As much as I didn’t want to do it…I chose to do my run in the flattest area I could think of in Louisville. Seneca Park. I also knew that this was going to test me mentally as well as physically. Why? First of all, the morning greeted me with rain. I figured what better way to wrap up my last long run than in the rain. This meant that I wore my old, heavy, to-big-for-me shoes instead of the ones I am wearing for the marathon. That sucked…but I figured I wouldn’t let it get me down. I’d attempt to do the training intervals, but the important thing, mainly, was to get the mileage done. But…there was more. You see, the “track” at Seneca Park is basically a 1.2 mile loop. Yes…I looped the park until I hit my mileage. My intervals as laid out by my training plan was specific. I was to run miles 1-8 at my long slow distance pace. So, I got to the park, walked a little while my Garmin found its satellites, and then was high-fived by Cathy and wished luck. My long slow distance pace when I am on my own is much quicker than my long slow distance pace when I run with a group. It’s faster. And I kept needing to remind myself to ease up and slow down. The most challenging part was to come. Before I hit mile 3, Cathy was off to run some errands and head home to get the house prepped for our friend Greg, who was visiting this weekend. I was on my own in the light rain, in the still-dark morning. There were large puddles that would cross the track, so I’d have to duck off the pavement and into the muddy grass. But, hey…I needed to do this. For the sake of my training. At mile 8, I turned around and ran the other way on the track. Miles 9-17 were to be run at marathon pace. So I picked up my pace for these 9 miles, pushing it more and keeping it as steady as I dared. My legs were tired from the first 8 miles, which should have been done slower than I ran them. But I pressed on, and I pushed. The rain stopped, but I now had some wind to deal with. And at some points it was me running right into it. I did my best not to let it phase me, but I was so happy when mile 17 hit. I once again turned around to run the other way, now in a mind to start the cool down. Miles 18-20 were to be done again at my long slow distance pace. What I ended up running was miles 8-24 at my long slow distance pace. I got so much encouragement from the runners at the park. They kept saying I was strong. That I looked good. I love the running community around here. You might not even know someone, but you still just give them a thumbs up, a smile, a compliment. It’s awesome. I polished up my run, having completed a full 24 miles. And my time…was fantastic. I couldn’t believe it when I paused my Garmin at the end of the run. And I still felt great. Which was good, because Greg was on his way. I went home to shower after grabbing some coffee and a snack (I was run-gry) and prepare for his arrival. And then…after he arrived, we were off for a day in Louisville, starting with gluten-free vegan pizza at Annie May’s Sweet Café, and then shopping. I ended up buying some DVDs at Half Price Books, but passed on the dress I was going to purchase for my birthday get-together tomorrow. Priorities…right? Right. Anyway…it was a good day. Here I am over 12 hours later…no ice bath necessary…still feeling amazing. And badass.

So…there it is. Now…three weeks until my first marathon…the taper begins. And I do intend to abide closely to my schedule for the taper because I want my legs to feel strong and rested when I get to Chicago. I don’t want any doubts in my head on marathon morning. I want all my hard work and effort to pay off in the end, which is why, while I’m sure I will become a raving maniac due to the cut-back on the mileage, I will follow my program as it is laid out. Because…I feel ready for this. I am ready for this. I can’t believe I am saying that.

So…here’s to not giving in too much to taper madness. This is recovery time. And I can’t wait to see what I can do in three weeks. Until then…hang with me…because I’m sure I’ll have some fun taper stories.

Three weeks.

*FLAIL*

September 14, 2013

Marathon Training Week #14 – Breathing easy again and finally cooling down!

I admit it. I struggled last week with running. Not so much with the race at Disney…but all the running at altitude really sapped my energy level. In fact, I ended up with a mild case of altitude sickness due to jumping into 12.5 miles in Boulder the day after I arrived. Not the smartest thing I ever did, and unfortunately, the runs I did after that one all sucked…mightily. It was a struggle to push through them. I found myself stopping often, downing water, continuing, and stopping again…to catch my breath…to just rest…my body was not enjoying a moment of any of those runs.

And it really messed with my head.

But…I continued on my training plan and rounded out another week, only to have to start this one still at altitude. And, I think I did okay with it…but it was still a struggle to get through the miles before getting on a plane and heading home. The difference I felt though…made me confident once again that I hadn’t lost anything while in Colorado, save for lung capacity or something.

Let’s take a look at how this week unfolded!

Sunday was the day I was going to be leaving Colorado and heading back to Louisville. However, I wasn’t due back until very late due to the flight schedule. So, I got up early (I never sleep in…ever!) and went to do one final run in Denver, Colorado. I kept an easy, slow, steady pace, but continued to struggle. My energy level just never got back to normal after that run in Boulder on Thursday morning, so the proceeding runs all just felt…awful. This one was a little better, but I was still fighting for air, for strength, for anything to validate that I could still, indeed, run. I ended up managing 11 very tough miles, earning one last merit badge in the trials of running at altitude. I was proud of myself for that and headed back up to the hotel room to shower, change, devour a good breakfast, and then get ready to fly back to Louisville, Kentucky in a couple of hours. The important thing was…I got all my necessary runs in…even if they were slow, and hard, and made me feel like a failure when it came to running.

Monday…was…in a word…interesting. No…seriously. Here’s why. The flight in from Atlanta ended up arriving later in Louisville due to waiting on a couple of passengers whose flight was running late. So, our ride picked us up later than anticipated and we got home later than planned. I still needed to get a few necessary items for lunch and snacks at the office from the grocery store. My roomie went to bed and I went shopping. By the time I got home, it was after midnight. And all the travel on Sunday and the long run in Denver hadn’t worn me out enough because I was wide awake. Being that it was now officially Monday, I slipped into my shorts, a tank top, and laced up my shoes. With all my reflective gear on, this weary traveler went out and did her 6 easy miles for marathon training. Instead of waking up at 4 a.m. to do so, I just got it done a little past midnight. What a difference the (albeit humid) river valley made. I felt like a rockstar out there running. My breathing was easy. My strength felt like it was there. And I churned out a great run in the end. I headed back upstairs and took a shower. This put me climbing into bed around 2 a.m. I got up to get ready for work around 4 a.m. to bake cookies for my first friend I made in the running community as he was moving to Dayton, Ohio for a girl…and a new job. I also had to get breakfast ready and finish putting together lunch and snack items. So, running on fumes all day, I, naturally, have to do my Daily Double as is tradition on Monday nights. My fun run group was meeting and it was Keith’s last night. And I made amazing gluten-free chocolate chip cookies in his honor. I also chose this run to be my first time running in my new Newton’s I bought while in Boulder, Colorado. I LOVE THESE SHOES! They do take some getting used to and my calf muscles were feeling them for the next few days. Apparently, I shouldn’t be rocking out 3 miles yet in these shoes. Instructions I later read in the box said to start with a mile until they feel comfortable and then gradually add on. Whoops. Needless to say, I felt, for the first time in a long time, that I rocked the fun run. And I was taking it easy due to fatigue and everything. But another 3.3 miles felt amazing that day. After enjoying a cookie and wishing Keith well with his future endeavors…I went home to shower (again) and get some rest.

Tuesday morning didn’t mean sleeping in. Nope. It was cross-training day. And I hit up the gym as always…except as I am now a month away from my marathon, I ease up on the cross-training intensity because I don’t want to get injured pushing it at the gym. How embarrassing. So, while I finally took my first day off from running in a week, I wasn’t taking a day off yet. Since it was Tuesday, this meant it was the day of the Arc Trainer. I love this machine and hate it at the same time. For some reason, the gym was stupid hot that day, so Cathy turned on the fan behind the machines and it was a great boost with some cool air. I did 2.3 miles on the Arc Trainer on Program 7 – Strength – at Level 5 in 45 minutes. Not bad considering how difficult the resistance gets at that level setting. Yikes. Then, it was over to the rowing machine for 10 minutes. I managed 1.17 miles rowing, which isn’t bad given how tired I was. Then it was downstairs for some strength training before heading into the office for work. After work I would normally do my circuit training, but my body was telling me that wouldn’t be a good idea. And I listened and gave this exhausted body a break that night. Actually, I made a deal that I would not circuit train at all this week and get back to it this coming week. So, game on. The plan was to go to bed early…but that didn’t happen.

Wednesday morning, as always, brings about the speed work/pacing portion of my weekly training schedule. This week I was to do a 5 mile tempo run. Doesn’t seem too bad, right? Nope. Except with how humid and hot it was in the morning, my legs felt like they had no energy at all. I knew by body was tired, my legs were really pushing it, and while I ran faster than I thought, I didn’t quite nail that tempo pace. I wasn’t all over the place, but I wouldn’t call the paces for each mile close enough in speed to be at tempo pace. Ah well…you win some, you lose some. Given the circumstances, I was happy with what I managed. I, once again, intended to go to bed early…and once again…that didn’t happen. Hey! The Master Chef finale was on and I wasn’t going to miss that!! Priorities. Anything with Gordon Ramsay is a priority!

Thursday morning came with another early rising. I had another 6 easy miles to put in and I got up and out the door in good time. Once again I was greeted with stifling heat and humidity. It was just nasty out there. My legs, once again, felt heavy and just completely wiped of any energy. I started off slow and just tried to maintain that, fueling (because I really needed it) halfway through. I hydrated every mile, alternating water and my electrolyte drink. When all was said and done and I pushed through to my full six miles, I discovered I actually ran it faster than I did on Monday. And I hit negative splits. Sometimes the body just surprises you. I felt on top of the world after that run. After that…it was the second day of gym time. Thursdays always means the ellpitical, so I set it for Level 7 as always and just did my best to get through the 49 minutes (I do a 4 minute cool down) I do every week on that machine. I managed 9.06 miles on Level 7 this week…which isn’t my best by any means, but I’m taking it easier and keeping things at a decent intensity to stay healthy and on my feet. After that, it was over to the Cardio Wave machine, where I did an impressive 4.04 miles in 10 minutes. I guess my legs liked the change of movement, not going forward and back for once. After that…downstairs for strength and then into work. Once more, I intended to get to bed early…but, of course, it didn’t happen.

Friday is the rest day that I am to keep holy. And…I did. Sorta. Kinda. Not really. I KNOW!! BAD!! BAD ME!! Normally I take a walk in the morning, just to take the edge off of not being able to run. But this morning, I wanted to break in my Newton’s a little more. So, I justified that by taking an easy jog in them. I did 2 miles at a comfortable pace, then slowed it down for one more mile. It felt good and I wanted to be out there longer. Maybe it was the gorgeous 66° weather that morning. Maybe it was the way I was easily finding my stride. Either way…it was the perfect morning, but I stayed to the 3 miles I intended and then went upstairs to get ready for a busy day at the office. I knew I was getting up early for my long run on Sunday, so I thought to go to bed early…but I got wrapped up in watching Dr. Who…and once again, that didn’t happen.

Saturday is the morning of my long run. This week, it was supposed to be 13 miles. But…no one in my running group was really doing that mileage. But, there was a group doing 20 miles…so I joined three fabulous ladies at North End Café on Frankfort Avenue at 6 a.m. to rock out my second 20 miler. It was 51° this morning and I was loving the brisk, cool air. It just made the run feel so much easier. I kept it slower than I normally would, which is what I should be doing on these long runs anyway. And I had some great conversations and enjoyed getting to know Nikki, Lindsay, and Abbey in the process. We ran a route I had never done before, starting and ending in the same place and having one of the most incredible 20 mile runs. We ran the last 4 miles of it with better speed, getting faster with each one. None of us felt like we were about to die at any point during this run. It was fantastic. I enjoyed the company, the distance, and the way I felt while running and after running. It was just the 20 miler I needed. After walking it off a little afterwards, I headed out to grab some breakfast at Annie May’s Sweet Café, order my birthday cake, get groceries for the week, and treat myself to some ice cream before heading home and collapsing for a little bit. It’s been a busy week…but my adventure continues tomorrow with another early start.

No rest for the trainee…

Maybe a nap tomorrow. But…unlikely. I am not good at napping.

Anyway…my return to the Ohio River Valley made me feel confident again in my fitness level, my running, and all the miles I’ve been logging for training. This coming week I have some challenging runs ahead of me, but I’m feeling good about what I’m doing and accomplishing. Some days are easier than others, and not having adequate rest this past week has definitely drained me in some ways. But I feel so good after coming back to this area. I just got a boost from getting out of the high altitude. So…it all just seems to be falling back into place.

And that’s good. Because after next week…I start to taper. And that might not be pretty…

September 13, 2013

Disneyland Half Marathon – Anaheim, CA (September 1, 2013)

Me leaving the start of the Disneyland Half Marathon - Anaheim, California — Me leaving the start of the Disneyland Half Marathon – Anaheim, California

Race: Disneyland Half Marathon

Place: Disneyland, Anaheim, California

Date: September 1, 2013

Time: 1:42:39

If you recall…back in February, I participated in the Disney Princess Half Marathon, which is held at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. That being said, I also know that Disney does this fantastic thing where if you run a half marathon at one of their parks and then, within the same calendar year, run another half marathon in the other park, you get a reward for going “Coast To Coast.” In this case…an additional piece of bling.

A dear friend of mine who also ran the Disney Princess Half Marathon was running the Disneyland Half Marathon as well. In fact…we both signed up within minutes of each other. And the planning stages were on for a reunion. But this time…with all four of “THE GIRLS!” It was going to be a trip to remember. Aside from being the first visit to Disneyland for Cathy and I, it would mark the first time the four of us had gotten together since…2011. Needless to say…I was nervous…and excited all at once.

Here’s the deal though…I’m in full-fledged marathon training mode currently. And with that being said, it meant that I had to mess around with the training schedule a little bit to fit into the travel plans. For one thing…rest days were moved…and, keeping in mind where I was going after the California portion of the trip was over (Cathy and I went to Colorado for the last part of the trip), I also wanted a more convenient spot than a city to do my long run. So…the schedule was shifted around a bit and made to fit. It wasn’t perfect…but it was doable.

On Friday, August 30, I was up at 3 a.m. to get in a 7 mile training run, which normally I would have done on…say…Sunday or something. Friday is a usual rest day, but the rest day was coming on Saturday instead. I guess. Because I knew that there would be lots of sightseeing at Disneyland…so a lot of walking…not so much resting. But…at least no running. So, up super early, out the door getting work done. I showered…finished packing (and took a risk by packing my running shoes in my luggage instead of taking them carry-on like I did for Florida…I kept my running outfit in my carry-on, but the shoes went into the suitcase because I figured I could replace the shoes at the expo…but not my costume)…ate breakfast…and headed into work a little early to get that kind of work done. Haha! A co-worker drove us to the airport and dropped us off, negating the need to park our car in the extended stay lot and pay an ungodly amount of money for the pleasure. We arranged with a different co-worker to pick us up late Sunday night when our flight came in. We had it handled. That being said, we checked our bags (LOVE flying Southwest) and headed to our gate. We actually had some time before our plane was due to depart, so we settled in to read…snack on some dark chocolate covered acai berries…and wait.

Before we knew it, the plane was boarding. I was at the tail-end of the A group so when I got on the plane, I found the closest two seats with a window to the front of the plane that I could find. We were making a hop over to Chicago, but not getting off the plane. When the passengers disembarking in Chicago moved off the plane though, Cathy and I moved forward. Then…the never-ending 4 hour flight into Sacramento happened. It was such a long time to be sitting…and my body was not happy with it. I did a lot of reading (at the time, polishing off Restaurant Man by Joe Bastianich) and a lot of whining about being uncomfortable. So landing in Sacramento was a relief. I could move and I could find something to eat. Which…for me ended up being this little salad of spinach, tomato, and feta cheese. It was…eh…as it came from one of those stands inside the shops and not a restaurant. It was something though, and that’s what mattered. I made a comment about what was for dessert but I think Cathy thought I was kidding and just laughed it off. Hmm…you’d think she’d know better. Anyway, we were soon on our last flight from Sacramento into Burbank and soon we were meeting up with Jenn (also known as Indy) at the airport, piling luggage into the car, and heading to her house to drop it off. Once that happened, we were back in the car heading out to the train station to pick up Tanya (also known as Tawn), who was coming in from Fresno for the weekend. SO thrilled. The four of us were back together again.

And, despite having been awake at this point for over 24 hours, I didn’t feel the least bit tired. We gathered at Indy’s house, watched The Mighty Boosh, ate a gluten-free chocolate chip cookie (Evan and Indy went out to Whole Foods for gluten-free snacks…because they are that awesome!), and eventually decided that we’d have to be up by 5:30 a.m. in order for all of us to cycle through the shower before heading to Disneyland. And Disneyland was important. So we said goodnight and all went to sleep.

Pirate Mickey Ears on...LET'S DO THIS! — Pirate Mickey Ears on…LET’S DO THIS!

My alarm went off super-early the next morning and I staggered off the air mattress and into the kitchen. Tawn was going to hit up the shower first…and Indy was up and asked if I wanted coffee. OF COURSE!! She made some of the best coffee ever, for the record. I caffeinated myself while Tawn showered…and eventually Cathy staggered out and headed right for the fridge for a Diet Mt. Dew. That’s her caffeine of choice. Soon, I was showering, and we were figuring out breakfast afterwards. We finally just had bananas, I think. It worked. It was something in the stomach to start. And then…we were “Tetris-ing the shit out of the trunk” trying to fit all our luggage in for the journey and two night stay (hey, in our defense, Cathy and I had to pack for 9 days, plus one fancy dinner!). Indy is a rockstar and managed to make it work. And then…the drive to Disneyland!

My first Disneyland experience started in…the parking structure. But soon we were taking the escalator down to the shuttle that would take us to the park entrance. We were starting with California Adventure. Indy and Cathy went to go stand in line for Fast Passes for the Radiator Springs Racers (which I’m glad they did…because they ran out quickly) while Tawn and I went to go start off the Disneyland trip right with some Tower of Terror fun. We met up after that…went and did Soarin’ Over California…walked around Radiator Springs…rode Luigi’s Flying Tires and Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree…and then hit up Ariel’s Undersea Adventure. We paused at this point to eat lunch…where we all sort of did our own thing. I was pretty much limited to a salad with a gluten-free roll. But this salad was the size of Godzilla. Seriously. I ate what I could and called it quits. From there…Radiator Springs Racers…then Tawn and I went on California Screamin’…and then we took in a water show that was conducted by Goofy. At that point…we decided it was time to hit up the Fitness Expo. After all, I had a packet to pick up. We wound our way through the resort, heading down to the packet pick-up area, where I headed to the first booth, as my bib number was for Corral A. Lead corral once again! I flashed my ID and turned in my waiver and I was handed my bib and tagged with my Coast To Coast bracelet. Sweet. Then…over to the expo where I would get my swag bag and t-shirt. I really wish I had held up my t-shirt before leaving because this thing is a small…but it is a TENT!! Holy crap! Oh well. It still works and I will still wear it (sometimes…as it is orange and that’s not one of my best colors). Then…shopping!! I ended up buying two additional bottles to hook onto my fuel belt (per my sports nutritionist) for extra hydration and then I bought the Castle To Castle t-shirt from one of the vendors. There was so much more I wanted…but I was just starting vacation and didn’t want to spend all my money in one place. The ONE item that I wanted most though was the official Disneyland Half Marathon pin (I collect pins), but they were sold out and you can’t order them online. I was seriously bummed out and sad for the rest of the day. After listening to Sean Astin talk and finishing up some more shopping, we all departed the expo to head back to the hotel to unwind a bit before dinner. We crashed…munching on some gluten-free crackers with hummus and just…laying about. We all were wiped. A lot of it being from how hot it was outside…and little sleep. For me…VERY little sleep.

After some downtime, we were back at it, heading out to Disneyland. Indy had to head back to the expo to meet up with an old friend of hers, leaving us with Tawn as our guide. We hit some highlights, like the room where Walt Disney stayed when he was in the park…the statue of Walt Disney with Mickey Mouse…Sleeping Beauty’s Castle…and finally the carousel, where Indy found us and was able to join us for the ride. I was having the time of my life. We had been discussing an early return to the hotel so we could get some rest before the race on Sunday morning…but Indy saw the Fast Passes for World of Color and we (meaning she and I) decided we had to do that. And that started at 9 p.m. So, the original plans were scrapped and we were locked in with fast passes for the show. We hit up Buzz Lightyear’s Astro Blasters (I sucked!) before heading over to Redd Rocket’s Pizza Port for dinner. Why there? Gluten-free pizza of course. It is my night-before-the-race required meal. It had to happen. Cathy got a slice of regular pizza and some breadsticks. Tawn and Indy each got pasta and split some breadsticks. I waited for about 10 minutes to place my order with the chef…then had to wait another 10 minutes for it to be made. And it took an additional 5 minutes to actually get it. So, by the time I joined my friends at the table, only Tawn was still eating. The other two had finished. The pizza was very much like the one I got on the fly at Disney World…so…not horrible…not fantastic. Just…gluten-free pizza. And that was enough. We then booked it over to World of Color and watched the colorful water show before calling it a night. That took a little while too because I was trying to lay out everything I would need in the morning…costume…hair accessories…shoes…race bib…fuel belt…fuel…etc. Finally climbed into bed to snag a few restless hours of sleep.

The alarm sounded loud and clear way, way, way too early. It was 3 a.m. and I was now getting on my outfit to be Belle from Beauty and the Beast. Why Belle? Because my niece, Kaytlynn, loves Belle. She is her favorite Disney princess…and I promised her I would run as her. I am an auntie of my word. So into the gold sports bra and sparkle skirt I got…did my hair up with little red rose accessories and red hair extensions. Slipped into my black compression sleeves and got my fuel belt loaded with Sports Beans, GU, and one bottle of water and one of NUUN (for electrolytes). Indy was in the process of getting dolled up as Lilo from Lilo and Stitch and we both opted to step outside to see what the weather was like. The first words out of my mouth where, “It’s gross out here! UGH!” It was gross out there. High humidity and temperatures already in the 70s. BLECH! Cathy quickly made up some signs as Tawn got dressed up as a makeshift Snow White. And…we of course had breakfast. I had brought some of my gluten-free cereal with me from Louisville…so I ate that while I got ready, snagging a banana for 30 minutes before the race. When we were fed, dressed, and prepped…we headed out the door of the hotel for the long trek to the staging area for the race. We wandered through the empty park, making our way to where we needed to be. We even passed the finish line. The race jitters were starting to hit.

Me as Belle and Indy as Lilo at the staging area before the Disneyland Half Marathon

We took some pictures at the staging area…then were bombarded by MarathonPhoto people wanting our pictures. I swear we were asked at least 20 times for pictures. And not just of Indy and I…but also of Cathy and Tawn. How epic!! Now they are part of the race memories. But, really, Indy and I were trying to shake off fatigue, stretch, and mentally prepare for the race. I did some walking lunges, some butt kickers and a lot of active stretching to get the muscles loose while I could. I ducked over to the port-o-potties to use the bathroom one more time. Washed my hands. Ate my banana…and had to go get into my corral. I was in Corral A…Indy was in Corral F. So we told each other to have a good race and went our separate ways.

Not as much was happening at the start line as there was at the Disney Princess Half Marathon. The Disneyland Half Marathon, however, is not focused mostly on women, so the corral definitely had more testosterone in it this time. Cathy came over to tell me that she and Tawn found a great spot about 20 feet from the start on the left side, so I moved to the left so they could see me when I left the gate. A marriage proposal happened on stage at one point. They brought up some guests to the stage including The Biggest Loser’s Allison Sweeney (LOVE HER!), Sean Astin, and NSYNC’s Joey Fatone. Now, Tawn had been dying to meet Joey so when he was on stage, I was totally thinking about her. Then the small amount of downtime occured and this is where I found myself literally dozing. I was falling asleep on my feet. I think, combined, I might have gotten 5 hours of sleep in 2 nights. Fatigue had moved to complete exhaustion. Not good when the race hasn’t even started yet. I tried to shake it off…but just couldn’t seem to keep my eyes open. The National Anthem played…and then they sent off the wheelchair racers. My corral was next…so we all moved up. And when the horn sounded, I started my Garmin as I crossed the start line, saw Cathy and Tawn, giving each of them a wave, and hit the roads of Anaheim.

For the first mile I was with a guy dressed up as Woody from Toy Story. He was even carrying a Woody doll with him. People kept saying, “Hey! It’s Buzz!” And he would, in a perfect Tom Hanks voice, reply, “I’m not Buzz! I’m Woody!” It was awesome. But he soon dropped behind and I was now entering California Adventure. It is still dark at this point, and as we run by the Paradise Bay, where World of Color was done, the lights and fountains are on, greeting runners as they go by. The music was even playing. It was very uplifting, actually. Just what I needed. From there, it was out of California Adventure and into Disneyland. Sleeping Beauty’s Castle was lit up and the runners made their way up the street and through the castle. This all happened within the first three and a half miles…so, after that, it was back out onto the roads for the rest of the journey for the most part. It was “blink and you miss it” through the parks, really. But I always get such a rush when I run through the castles at Disney. I was starting to wake up now.

Miles 4-8 were all done on the road. So, not much to look at…until you hit Mile 7. Here you get treated to the most amazing car show. People brought out all their beautiful vintage cars and are displaying them for the runners, taking away the monotony that the highway roads would normally offer. Some honked their horns, all of them were cheering and clapping. I loved that part of the race. If I wasn’t already feeling uplifted, that helped.

Mile 8 led me past The Honda Center, which is where the Anaheim Ducks play hockey. Very cool little stretch of the run there. This lead into the unpaved mile of the run, along the Santa Ana River Trail. Loose gravel. Wasn’t expecting that in Anaheim. But, there it was. In fact, one of the wheelchair racers was struggling with her racing chair in the grooves of the gravel. She managed to regain momentum afterwards though, because she passed quite a few of us up on our way to Angel’s Stadium.

Yep…Angel’s Stadium. Home to the Los Angeles Angels baseball team. I was looking forward to this part of the run. I am not much into sports, but I grew up on baseball. I played softball. I went to baseball games. I love the sport. So, the opportunity to run through the stadium…across home plate even…was thrilling. And the stands were packed with people…and the roar of the cheers was incredible. They even had an announcer there listing off names as you passed over the sensor. I couldn’t stop smiling. This was epic! Just ahead of me, I noticed the wheelchair racer had taken a tumble out of her chair on the corner leading out of the park. She had some volunteers helping her out. She was a little scraped up…but seemed fine and eager to get back into her chair and on the move. Trust me…it didn’t slow her down any.

Three more miles to go after I left the stadium. I kept telling myself…just a 5K left. I knew I wasn’t going to PR…and I hadn’t set out to do that on this race. I made a promise to my sports nutritionist to treat this as a training run, and that was how I ran it. It was horribly humid and hot out…but I was still having a great time. I still felt good. I felt as though I could run more…which is always a good sign. So, I ticked off Mile 11, giggling at the sign that said “$175 for a half marathon…Smile only $37.40 to go!” So clever. So awesome. At around Mile 12, I got passed by a guy running and juggling. RUNNING AND JUGGLING!! AND PASSING PEOPLE! He had to be super human or something. Geeze. I knew I was getting close though. I didn’t once glance at my watch…I just ran…and as the finish line came into view, I couldn’t keep from smiling. My name was called as I slapped hands with Mickey Mouse and crossed over the finish line. Yes…I had to high-five Mickey. I had to!! I was all smiles. And I saw Tawn and Cathy flagging me from the crowd. And the smile got even bigger.

They were going to meet me in the staging area, so I made my way over to receive my Finisher’s medal…then some water…and then to get my Coast To Coast medal as well. From there, I made my way over to where they were handing out goody boxes full of mostly gluten-free options. And soon, I was heading out of the recovery area. And there they were…right at the gate…Tawn and Cathy. Both gave me hugs, not minding that I was slick with sweat. My official time beeped over my phone and Cathy told me. We high fived and I went to get a bag of ice and settle in to eat my banana. Hydrating and keeping to the shade, we decided that we had some time before Indy came in, so we made our way back to the hotel, where I showered, changed, and got ready to head back out to the park to cheer for Indy as she crossed.

It was hot…especially with the sun up now…but we were eagerly anticipating her arrival at the finish line. I had a vague notion of when she would be in thanks to the live updates I was receiving to my cell phone. Two minutes after the last update said she’d make it to the finish…there she was. Apparently she was a mess at the finish line…crying…hurting…and just happy to have it done. Poor thing. We went to go meet her at the designated area (Lilo 14), but I decided to go to the gate she’d have to come out of while Tawn and Cathy waited where we arranged before the start of the race. She finally made it out. I got a sweaty hug. She looked completely out of it. I got to meet her dad. We got the other girls over to where she was and we moved toward a shady spot where she could sit down. She needed to rest.

She slipped into her Disneyland Half Marathon shirt, rearranged her medals, and just let everything roll off. She looked completely spent. Her dad asked if she was ready to do it again and she shook her head and said “NO.” Yeah…I think this one wiped her. But she bounces. She does.

We started back to the hotel, but she said we should just go and enjoy the park. She needed to rest. So, we walked as far as we could with her, and she left to go recover, sleep, and do what she needed to do. The three of us hit up the parks hard…up until we needed to head back to shower and get ready for the most amazing dining experience ever. Seriously.

Anyway, Disney…as always…put on a spectacular race. My official results are that I ran the course in 1:42:39, making this my second fastest half marathon to date. WOOT! I was 288/15,868 finishers overall. I was the 59/10,017 female to cross the finish line. And I was 9/1923 in my division. You cannot believe how thrilled I am with these results. The best part was…I wasn’t even trying. I was just running. And, after hitting that finish line…I still felt good. I still felt like I could keep moving. That’s a good sign that my training and my fueling efforts have been paying off. Disney magic was back again on this one.

It’s hard not to find your happy pace and place at the Disney runs. They are super expensive when you factor in the cost of the race itself, travel, lodging, food, souvenirs, passes for the park, etc…but I keep wanting to go back. And it keeps drawing me back for more. I need to come back to Disneyland again…and soon. Because I already miss it.

Celebrating a strong finish, another half marathon under my (fuel) belt, and going Coast To Coast!

August 30, 2013

Marathon Training Week #12 – Taking someone along for the ride…

Last Saturday, when I was supposed to be out running 18 miles at my long slow distance with my training group…I was instead at Iroquois Park, gearing up for a small 5K race that I run every year. It was important to me, and it did mean shifting the schedule around. Normally this would have meant I’d just meet up with someone on Sunday instead, but much of my group was volunteering at one of the water stops at the Louisville Ironman…so it meant my 18 mile run would be done solo…and I’d keep it on the Indiana side of the river instead of taking it over to Louisville.

No problem. I mapped it out so I had a route, and actually memorized it without a problem. That’s quite unusual for me. I’m such a scatterbrain at times. But this stuck. Maybe because the long runs are the foundation of my training plan and the runs I look forward to the most. I’ll be honest though…I wasn’t looking forward to this one. 18 miles would take me around 2 hours and change to complete…and that was if the elements were ideal. And on Sunday morning, it was a humid morning in the high 60s…and once that sun came up…it was hot.

I had jokingly suggested that my roommate, Cathy, ride her bike and shadow me on my 18 mile run. Since this run was done on a route that wouldn’t take me back near my apartment, nor really around to any water fountains (they aren’t readily available around here like they are in Louisville), I figured she could be my roving water stop. She actually seemed game for it, despite being worried about taking on the hills. I figured she had plenty of time all week to back out of it…but she never made any indication that she intended to do that. On Saturday night, I asked if she was really going to come along. She said she was…and seemed adamant about it.

So…for the first time ever, she got to see me through an entire run. And at the end…I was glad she was there to push me to finish strong.

This week would normally be a taper week…as I have a half marathon next Sunday…but my main focus is on the marathon. It just so happened that this week required a 13 mile run, so the training schedule fell right into place. I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect alignment. But…no taper was happening. And I promised my sports nutritionist not to all-out race this half marathon and keep it at my training pace. So…I hope I can manage to keep myself from getting carried away. Guess time will tell.

That being said…let’s take a look at how this week shook out leading up to the Disneyland Half Marathon.

Cathy and I after our 18 mile adventure!

Sunday, while normally was the “Do What Feels Good” distance or rest day…it wasn’t happening this week. As I mentioned, my usual long run day on Saturday was replaced with a short 5K race. I rocked the race, but it meant the long run had to be pushed to Sunday. I was a bit unhappy with the dramatic drop in my mileage for the week because of the 5K…but…I’m not overly concerned now. I’m doing the work…and that’s the important factor here. Anyway, I got up early to get ready and slap on some sunscreen before the sun even came up. I ate my usual breakfast of cereal…no banana today because I didn’t have one and forgot to pick one up. No worries. I packed three GU packs in my skirt and started to fill up my water bottles with NUUN. My roommate was up and moving, making it even more likely that she was at least going to start this adventure with me. I was fairly certain she’d ditch it after the first couple of miles. I got her suited up in my reflective vest and she ate a quick breakfast and went to pump up the wheels of her bike. We were waiting on the sky to lighten up just enough to feel safe out on the roads. She put on her bike helmet and hauled her bike down. I went to get warmed up, as usual, with a slow mile through the apartment complex parking lots. And soon…after she added more air to her tires…we were hitting the road. At first, she had some trouble actually shadowing me…but she got the hang of it. And she did a fantastic job seeing me around New Albany, biking the entire time and either being just slightly ahead of me, or just behind. And, let me tell you, one of the best things in the world is hitting your final mile on a hot day where you just want to STOP…and hearing this slightly off-pitch voice start singing the Rocky Theme at you…followed by other inspirational songs. She even botched Queen lyrics, making me laugh. It was fantastic and when my watch hit 18 miles, we high fived and called it a day. I was so proud of her for making the entire 18 mile journey with me. She never complained once and she was always asking at stop lights if I needed the Sports Beans I had her take just in case…more NUUN…or more water. She now has a good idea of what I do on my long runs and I quite enjoyed having a roving water stop…and my own personal radio of inspiration at the very end. I got through that run because of her.

Monday…ah…Monday. My training schedule called for 7 miles…but with my upcoming week of craziness…I bumped it up to 8 miles. This also meant that I needed to get up a wee bit earlier to get the run done. So, at 3:30 a.m., I’m up and getting dressed, eating a light bite and downing 16 ounces of water. I had hoped to hit the ground running early, but I spent about 15 minutes searching for my reflective vest that I had let my roommate wear the day before. I couldn’t find it anywhere. So, finally, I grabbed my winter reflective vest and headed out to run. The winter reflective vest was super, super hot and the morning was warm (74 degrees) and humid. And it was just after 4 a.m. I started out, and immediately found that the vest was just too much. But, I needed to be seen, so I kept it on. My roommate later showed me she hung it up on my drying rack…on the back part that I couldn’t see. At least I know it’s there for tomorrow. Anyway…it was a miserable and slower 8 miles this morning. My legs were feeling the 18 mile hot run on Sunday…and the dehydration I think the vest was causing me. I hydrated (with Gatorade and water) every mile…but it was a struggle to get through this one. I managed. Needless to say, Monday is, of course…the weekly Daily Double. Most of the group wanted to run trails…but Natalie said she ran trails last week. She recommended hills due to all my bitching about not running them, but I ran hills at the race on Saturday and then everywhere I turned on Sunday. So, we opted to run one of our fun run routes backwards…not even going inside Cherokee Park. What came of this was a nice, relaxing, easy 3.6 mile run that felt awesome. And the company of Natalie and Harry was perfect. Once again…we talked about lots of things, but I got to talk to Natalie about Celiac and gluten intolerance and how we just like to eat…all…the…food. For the second run of the day, it sure did feel good.

Tuesday is cross-training day. But I was a very, very bad girl this morning. I went for a run. I did. I admit it right now…I got up and got into my running clothes, slipped into my running shoes, got that reflective gear on and went out for a slow…slow…easy run in the morning. I didn’t want to press it too much because it was actually a cross-training day and I was still hitting up my gym to accomplish that part of the training plan. It was a gross 78 degrees out at 4 a.m. and I took the humidity and heat in stride, maintaining an easier pace than I normally would sustain on an easy run day. It was a good call because I was dripping at the end of the 4 miles I decided to run. I even took it out to the street to hit a few more light hills…just because. I don’t know why. Neither my upcoming half marathon nor my marathon are particularly hilly. I guess I’m just working on building up some strength. Speaking of which…cross-training commenced at the gym. Tuesday means it is Arc Trainer morning. Today I set it for Program 6 – Intervals 1:2 – Level 5. This meant that I was at a moderate step for about 1 minute, then for 30 seconds, the resistance got harder and the incline got steeper. My legs were feeling strong and I pushed out 2.56 miles in 45 minutes on this machine. Then it was time to hit that stationary bike. I hate the stationary bike more than I hate the dreaded treadmill (dreadmill). Seriously. It is SO boring. I kept it as interesting as I possibly could by changing up the resistance very mile. And, despite it all…in 10 minutes, I pushed out 3.9 miles, which isn’t too shabby. Then it was downstairs to hit up a few strength machines. Want to get rid of these noodley arms, you see…

Wednesday is the speed work/pacing day. And this Wednesday meant…speed work. Since school is back in session, I can’t get over to the track to bust out my work…so this meant hitting up the gym and getting it done…on the treadmill. This might have been a blessing this morning as the humidity was just…stifling and the air was hot, hot, hot. I still dislike doing treadmill work, but got up early, grabbed a bite, then went to the gym to get my speed work done. I always keep in mind never to push faster than I would normally run if I were running these sprints on the track. Keeping that in mind, I had 8 miles total to do…2 mile warm up, then 3 x 1600 meters with 2 x 800 recovery, then a 2 mile cool down. I made sure I was stretched and warm before I even started because the worst thing to do when working on speed work…is to do it with cold muscles. That is a recipe for injury. I hit the 1600s hard and fast and made sure I had an easy recovery in between. My 8 miles was done in 1:03:36, which isn’t bad considering the 4 miles of warm up and cool down I did at a much slower pace than I would normally run on my own. I was pleased with it. But, I am so out of practice on the treadmill (not a bad thing!)…that I kept hitting my pinky against the bar and now it’s rather bruised and a bit swollen. Sort of hurts to bend too. MEH! Yuck. Went home and did the last day of Level 2 of the circuit training required for the week before the trip. When I get back…boosting it up to the next level. Sort of fearing that and looking forward to it.

Thursday ushered in another easy run day. This was, once again, supposed to be 7 miles, but I bumped it up to 8, just like I did on Monday and yesterday with the speed work. I’m heading out of town on Friday afternoon, so going a few extra miles before taking Saturday completely off was part of the plan early in the week. That’s why I ran on Tuesday, which is normally just cross-training. Let me tell you…the humidity and heat this morning was horrible. At 3:30 a.m…when I headed out the door to run, it was 78 degrees with 86% humidity and a 70 degree dew point. Already my legs were exhausted from my 8 mile speed work and circuit training from the day before, but I told myself just to run easy. I didn’t want to push too hard in this kind of weather, nor did I want to risk injury by pushing too much on tired legs. So…I just ran an easy-peasy 8 miler, remembering to hydrate often (with both Gatorade and water) along the way. It took just over an hour and was close, but just slightly slower than my Monday and Wednesday runs. So, I don’t feel too bad about that. I tend to take my Thursday runs easy anyway because it also is another morning at the gym. The morning was all about hustling to get to the gym a little earlier than usual. Like I said…I’m heading out of town this weekend, so I’m working a bit more at the office to make sure I have everything in order and done. The gym schedule had me on the Octane Fitness 4700 Elliptical Machine…which is really more of a cross trainer than anything. Which might be why I love it so much. It is really a full-body workout on this machine. Upper and lower body get worked and it has various programs to choose from. I usually just do the Loop program, Level 7, and just go with it. But, I think after Chicago, I might try some of the other options on there. Anyway, I managed 8.97 miles in 49 minutes, which isn’t too shabby on these tired legs. From there it was over to the Cardio Wave machine to work these legs a little more, but get them moving in a different direction. Managed 3.97 miles on that in 10 minutes, which is a new record for me. I had it set for Level 13 instead of varying the resistance throughout. Figured I’d keep a steady rhythm for a little more of a challenge. It was definitely a challenge. After that, it was downstairs to hit up a few strength machines before heading in for a long, long day at the office.

Friday is normally my rest day…which I always try to respect and keep holy. However, Saturday is going to be my “rest” day…if you can call it that. In a couple of hours, I’ll be heading to the airport to fly out to Los Angeles, CA. The best part of this trip…hanging with my GIRLS!! Indy and Tawn are both going to be there and it has been quite a few years since our last encounter. Well. the four of us (Indy, Tawn, Cathy and myself). I got to see Indy at the Disney World Princess Half Marathon back in February. But…no Tawn. So…it’s happening. Both Indy and I are participating in the Disneyland Half Marathon on Sunday. So, with Saturday being a day of rest…I figured I could venture out and do a bit of a shake-out run before the long day of travel ahead. And that’s exactly what I did. Once again, the morning greeted me with temperatures in the high 70s. It was 75 degrees at 3 a.m. The humidity was at 81% as well, making it…oh, just so enjoyable. Everyone loves running in a sauna, right? Right? Yeah…not so much. For the first 4 miles, I was pulling a good pace though. The only problem was…my usual running clothes were packed for my trip to California and Colorado…so I was wearing shorter running shorts than usual…and the mace I carry with me was smacking against my thigh. I didn’t notice. HOW I didn’t notice, I still don’t know. But…when it finally hit me that my leg was hurting, I realized my mace had now given me a nice welt and bruise on my right thigh. Lovely. I stopped and moved the mace further back on fuel belt and that fixed the problem. Finished out the run and even did it with negative splits. It was also my fastest run this week. Not too shabby for a blech kind of morning. I showered. I foam rolled. I finished up packing and headed into work. Getting ready to head out to the airport. California bound. Doing Disneyland with my GIRLS!!

Saturday is normally my long run day, but as I am racing in the Disneyland Half Marathon on Sunday, Saturday is my day of rest. This actually works out since my training plan called for 13 miles this week (it’s a step-back week on mileage). So, instead of running, I’ll be hitting up the race expo, and seeing some of what Disneyland has to offer with Tawn, Indy, and Cathy. And let me tell you…I totally can’t wait. Running the Disney Princess Half Marathon back in February at Disney World was so much fun, I can’t wait to see what sights, sounds, and adventures Disneyland holds!

August 26, 2013

Marathon Training Week #11 – Getting back into the racing game…

I’m going to say it right here and now…so listen up! 5K races are my least favorite distance. I never feel like I’m pushing myself fast enough, despite pushing these short little legs harder and harder with each mile. And at the end of a 5K…I never have the drive or the energy for that final kick that so many of my running friends have. And it makes me dislike that distance even more.

Let’s face it…these short little legs were made to go long. I actually would rather run a longer race any day than a 5K race. Winning an award at the shorter races is all fine and good…but I love the challenge of the longer run. I love to push my legs past the distance they think they can go…and prove to myself that my passion for the longer distances truly is what drives me when I run.

With that all being said…this past weekend, I had to shift my long run to Sunday because…well…Saturday I had a 5K race. Normally I wouldn’t have signed up for one. I’ve been avoiding races to focus more on my marathon training…but this is one race I would never dream of missing. My Aunt Debbie died 3 years ago from colon cancer, and here in Louisville, for the past three years, I have ran in the Walk Away from Colon Cancer & 5K Run. The only difference between the past two years and this year…is that this year I wasn’t returning from an injury that kept me out of running. This year, the Walk Away From Colon Cancer & 5K Run was not a comeback run. This year…I was free to run it as I chose…and I chose to run a smart, safe, and fun race. And that’s how it should be.

Having the race on Saturday also decreased my usual weekly mileage…but…you know…it was worth it. I’ve racked up some crazy mileage over the past couple of weeks, I think giving these legs a shorter, but harder (as in speed and the fact that I tested them out on the hills of Iroquois Park), run was just what they needed. Speed work. Hill work. All in just over 22 minutes…done.

I admit, however, that the morning of the race I was not in a racing mindset. I hadn’t actually raced since The Boilermaker 15K in Utica, NY back in early July…and I was having a hard time finding that run hard, run fast mindset. Regardless, I took to the course and had a fun, beautiful, and very hot run yesterday morning. And it was for a good cause and in memory of my aunt. I couldn’t have asked for anything more.

But…that was the end of the week…I still had the entire week before I got to my race…so…

Sunday is the normal “Whatever My Legs Feel Like” training run…or rest day. It just depends on how I feel that morning. Except, keep in mind, I busted out 20 miles the previous day. So, as I was getting ready for bed, I asked my roommate what I should run in the morning. She shrugged and said, “I don’t know…13 miles?” Then paused. “No…do 13.1.” Ah…a half marathon challenge. I was game. I figured I could run it at the LSD pace and have a good morning run. I guess I was feeling super that morning, despite the heavy mileage on Saturday…because I took to the streets and my legs felt strong and good…not tired…not sore. I was having a great run. The first half of the run was rather flat, but then I decided to challenge myself and run a very hilly second half. I just wanted to see how I would do on tired legs with a bit of a challenge, I guess. I wasn’t slowed in the slightest and somehow ended up rocking out 13.1 miles in a time faster than my half marathon PR. If only this had been in a race. I was super-stoked. Super surprised. And super proud of myself. That was on legs that had gone 20 miles the day before? Had I not been the one running, I wouldn’t have believed it myself. I was feeling amazing and hit negative splits to boot!! Yeah…I was feeling sort of invincible that morning, I guess. I was all smiles after that and feeling like Beast Mode was activated. If only every run felt that awesome. That evening was the Bruno Mars concert that my roomie and I had tickets for. I didn’t get home until well after midnight…and my legs were tired and sore, not just from the previous two runs, but from standing the entire show. LOVED that concert though. Had such a great time.

But…Monday morning rolled around and that meant it was back to the training schedule. That morning I was not feeling as awesome. In fact, I felt a bit defeated. The schedule called for 7 miles. And I did get 7 miles out that morning. But, I was running on very tired and somewhat sore legs. In fact, I actually went to bed in my running clothes…because I wanted to get more than 4 hours of sleep. And to knock out 7 miles…I needed all the time I could manage if I wasn’t getting up until 5 a.m. The later start sort of threw me off, but sleeping in my running clothes was sheer genius, because it meant I just needed to slip into my compression sleeves and my shoes before hitting the road that morning. It definitely got me out the door quicker. There was also a definite change from the weather I had the previous Monday morning. So, with the return of the humidity, the run just felt hard. I managed to press on and rocked the run with negative splits, but it was a hard-fought battle. And then…even with the tired legs, I wouldn’t dream of missing my Monday night fun run. So after a long, long day at work, I went home to eat and change and headed off to Louisville to do a run with my group. We were supposed to do hill work, which is something I really need to focus on. However…they vetoed it before I got there and half of the group was going to run trails, and the rest were going to hit up the Scenic Loop in Cherokee Park. I am not currently running trails because I don’t want to get injured, so I stuck to the road. And for the first mile was running with the group. My legs were still sore from all the hard efforts I put on them…as well as sitting for a long period of time at the office…but none of that seemed to matter. I got to the hill after Hogan’s Fountain and I was off. I had intended to stick with everyone, but I got ahead and there was no stopping me. I didn’t push…not for speed or anything because my Achilles was acting up a little…and the last thing I wanted to do was hurt myself on a fun run. Foam rolling commenced the moment I got home. Monday’s Daily Double was in the books.

Tuesday, of course, meant it was my cross-training day. And, as is the norm for Tuesdays, I resist the urge to run, even though I have the time and the ability to do so…and instead head to the gym before work. Tuesdays means it’s Arc Trainer day. The Arc Trainer, by the way, is basically the high calorie burning solution to the modern elliptical, built to be safe for high intensity workouts. In other words…it works like an elliptical, but is scientifically tested to be gentler on your joints, burn 16% more calories than a standard elliptical, and it can help the user train for strength, power, endurance, cardio and weight loss. It has this range of incline and resistance levels which makes this seem like 3 machines in one. Honestly. At lower incline levels, it’s has a glide like a cross country skier. In the mid-range levels, the motion is a stride, like on an elliptical but with proper positioning. And at the higher levels, it has the climb of a stepper or climber. I use the preset programs on the machines which automatically changes up resistance, incline, and the intervals. It makes this machine challenging, yet still puts you through a total body workout. It’s an elliptical on crack and I love to hate it. This time, I was on Program 5 – Intervals 1:1, meaning I had 1 minute at a lower incline, then it shot me up to hard resistance and the “climber” mode for 1 minute and it would rotate this out. I did this for 45 minutes on Level 7 and managed to dig out 2.08 miles. After that, it was on to the Cardio Wave. If you’re not familiar with this machine either, it is also like an elliptical machine, except that this one focuses more on strengthening the gluteus and lower limbs while still focusing on the core stabilizer muscles…so you get a full body workout that is safe and non-impact. And…your legs move from side-to-side and not the usual forward and back motion that I get with other ellpiptical machines and my running. It’s a nice change of pace and it works three different planes of movement simultaneously: extension, abduction and external rotation. My roommate hates this machine, but I love it. And I rocked 3.89 miles on it set to a steady Level 13 that morning. Then it was downstairs to hit up a few strength machines to help build up some muscle. After work, it was time to circuit train and that took some convincing. I knew it needed to be done, my body was just tired. But…my roomie and I knocked it out of the park and it actually helped loosen up the muscles and tendons that were giving me issues on my runs on Monday. So…bonus!

Wednesday marathon training is always speed work/pacing day. And today…it was all about pacing. The schedule called for 8 miles…yes…8 miles. But this was to be a Tempo Run…meaning I was to build up to about my 10K race pace, hold that for a couple of miles, then ease back down. I ended up steadily building up my pace, making this tempo run more of 8 miles with negative splits. Whoops. So, I guess I ddi one better than what training called for. And that was a miserable morning. Because it was 8 miles and would take about an hour to do, I got up half an hour earlier and headed out. It was 70 degrees at 3:30 a.m. and we had 92% humidity. Needless to say, I was dripping by the end of it and was more than happy to hop into the shower before getting dressed for work and making a healthy breakfast. After work, it was the second session of the circuit training and this one really felt hard. My legs were screaming for some rest. I promised if they got through “the shred” than they could have some downtime. They saw me through the circuits and weights…and so…I rested them that evening.

Thursday was a lot easier this week. Training simply called for 4 easy miles. Four miles…and I’d be done. It was another humid morning and my legs were tired…but my four miles ended up as 5 miles. I wasn’t at all happy with that run, honestly. Maybe that is why I pushed the extra mile. Or…that I just am not used to lower mileage under 5 miles at times…regardless…I got through the run, but it was not a happy 5 miles at all. After that, it was the second day at the gym. With my legs angry at me for that run this morning, I knew better than to really push it on the cardio portion of this workout. So, when I climbed on the elliptical, I set it for my usual Level 7, but didn’t push on the speed too much. I managed under 9 miles in 49 minutes…which is under what I normally can do. But, I was listening to my body. The second machine of the day was 10 minutes on the rowing machine. Ah…the rowing machine of doom. I put on my gloves and settled in for a L-O-N-G 10 minutes. But the rowing machine is such a great machine in that it works so much of your body. Not only are you working biceps, back, and shoulders, but you also work your quads, glutes, and core muscles as well. So…while I hate it…I love the workout I get from this machine. After that…it was downstairs for some more strength machines before heading to work.

Friday is the dreaded, but necessary, rest day. And, since I was going to be racing on Saturday, I definitely wanted to keep it holy. I admit though…I did take myself out for another brisk morning walk. This has become the Friday norm. I walked 3.26 miles that morning in 36:42…which is good. Very good. It also took the edge off the rest day so I wouldn’t be cranky, crabby and miserable. It worked. And the rest of the day felt okay because I had at least gotten some form of movement in for the day.

Saturday…it’s usually my long slow distance run. And this week I was to run 18 miles. Except, I had another commitment on Saturday morning. *GASP* I know. But this was important. As I mentioned, my Aunt Debbie died from colon cancer a few years ago. Every year since, I have been a part of this race. It’s the Walk Away From Colon Cancer & 5K Run. I would never dream of missing this. Even if it meant I didn’t get to meet up with my running group and do my usual long run. The long run was pushed back to Sunday…which I’ll tell you all about next week. But Saturday was all about honoring my aunt’s memory, running for a great cause, and putting some speed work and hill work into play simultaneously. I won’t lie…a part of me was hoping to rock out a sub-22 5K, which is something I am still chasing…but Iroquois Park is not the place for that. And I knew that going into this race…but it was a dream. It will happen…one day. Until then…I just sort of ran this race with how I felt. My legs were rested. My mind was clear. And I was focused on just getting to that finish line. Like I said…5Ks are my least favorite distance. I place a lot when I run them, I just don’t like running them. That being said…this race was hot and hilly…but I just went out there to have some fun and “do some work.” And I did. In fact, I ended up finishing 27/799 finishers overall, 4/496 female finishers, and I was 1/67 in my age division. WOOHOO!! The speed and hill endurance will come with practice. This was my 2nd fastest 5K to date…and that is saying something! I thought about running more later that day, but I had so much going on…shopping for items for my upcoming trip, grocery shopping, cleaning…and since Sunday was now going to be my 18 miler…without a group…I thought my legs needed the rest of the day off.

So, this was a much lower mileage week than my previous ones, but I think it was good that I listened to my body…and my heart…and ran what I needed to run, the speed I needed or felt like I needed to run. I still managed to nail my training, and that’s saying something. This week was a tough one, despite having fewer miles…but I got through it and knocked it out. Proving once again, even if my body is tired…my determination always makes me feel stronger and better. Lack of sleep and harder runs made the lower mileage this week a welcome change of pace…but it never once slowed me down.

Time to see what I can manage this coming week…