It is so hard to believe that this time next week I'll be picking up my packet and getting ready for the Disney Marathon!! This has been an amazing experience so far. I never thought I'd ever do something like this, and here I am, nine days away from the big day! I just hope and pray that God gets all the glory for this one because I know I never would have made it this far without Him. Now I just need cooperative weather, a big boost of confidence, and peace that surpasses all understanding because I'm beginning to get nervous about this thing...
I got my "Final Information" e-mail for the Marathon and I guess the realization of it being upon me overwhelmed me a bit. That, and finding out I have to be up at 3am (which will feel like 2 am CST), on a bus no later than 4 am, and in my corral by 5 am made me realize this may be harder than I imagined. I just have to trust that all of my training will come into play, a great song list will get me through it, and know that it's mostly a mental thing to get me to the finish line. I've survived 20 miles, and that was around scenery I've been looking at over the past 5 months. I know I can make it to 26.2 miles in one of my favorite places in the world (besides "The Swamp").
On a good note, I ran my last "long run" before the race today. It was only 6 miles, and I knocked it out in 1 hour 13 minutes--a personal best! I think that was just the thing to end on before I head out to FL next week. I admit it--I may be more excited about 4 days without the boys, but I want to make sure I make them proud with my accomplishment and honor Kylee's memory the best I can.
Until next time...
Friday, December 31, 2010
Monday, December 20, 2010
#15903 Getting Ready!
I have my official number (#15903) for the race! To think that in a mere three weeks I'll be on my way back on a plane with my parents, hopefully sporting some adorable Mickey bling... :) My right knee feels just like normal today, so I think I'm in the clear as far as injury goes. We'll see how it tolerates the 5 mile training run tomorrow!
Until next time...
Until next time...
Sunday, December 19, 2010
20 Miles Down & THREE WEEKS TO GO!!
The past two weeks have been a bit hectic (hence, no posts). Last week's run went fine--nothing to write home about. This week, however, more to write about...
I made a bad discovery on my five-mile run on Tuesday: Taco Soup & running don't mix. Let's just say that I won't be eating ANYTHING remotely spicy the day before my marathon. I got it done, but it wasn't fun. My "fartlek" training didn't happen due to mommy-duties interfering (baked & iced almost 5 dozen gingerbread cookies), but my hubby thinks the time on my feet should count for something... :) I ran 4 miles on Thursday the fastest I ever have: 4 miles in 50 minutes (12.5-minute mile pace). I felt fantastic! Maybe baking the night before helped somehow? Makes one wonder...
The biggest run I have ever done happened yesterday: 20 miles! I was able to jalk it in 4 hours, 55 minutes, which was a pace of 14 min. 45 sec. per mile. I was doing great until I tripped over a brick in the driveway of Ferguson Elementary School. It kinda "stubbed" my foot, which in turn hurt my right knee. I finished my run, but at a little slower pace than I had been going due to the knee pain (not sidelining--just annoying). The end of my run was at Kim's son, James, first birthday party. I think that gave me some incentive to finish--wanting to make it before it was over & seeing everyone. She was kind enough to offer me a nice hot shower & food, both of which I was extremely grateful for. Once the party broke up, we headed home to my supply of Icy Hot & a comfy napping spot on the couch. I have no idea how long I rested, but I was so glad Shawn let me sleep. When I got up this morning, my left leg felt like it always does, but my right knee was still a little sore (still no swelling). I've been taking it easy around here today to make sure it's back to normal by Tuesday (my second-to-last 5 mile "short" run).
I'm still in disbelief that my race is just three weeks away! I'm getting more excited, antsy, & nervous. Probably par for the course, but it's the biggest achievement I've ever physically made (besides having my boys). I am just praying that I stay healthy & injury-free, that the weather isn't windy, and that I cross the finish line and get that cute little Mickey medal to take home with me. And the best part will be seeing my family & friends along the way (hint, hint--if you don't have plans now, make some to come cheer me on on the 9th!).
Needing to break up World War III in the living room (never a dull moment with hyper pre-Christmas boys in the house). Until next time...
I made a bad discovery on my five-mile run on Tuesday: Taco Soup & running don't mix. Let's just say that I won't be eating ANYTHING remotely spicy the day before my marathon. I got it done, but it wasn't fun. My "fartlek" training didn't happen due to mommy-duties interfering (baked & iced almost 5 dozen gingerbread cookies), but my hubby thinks the time on my feet should count for something... :) I ran 4 miles on Thursday the fastest I ever have: 4 miles in 50 minutes (12.5-minute mile pace). I felt fantastic! Maybe baking the night before helped somehow? Makes one wonder...
The biggest run I have ever done happened yesterday: 20 miles! I was able to jalk it in 4 hours, 55 minutes, which was a pace of 14 min. 45 sec. per mile. I was doing great until I tripped over a brick in the driveway of Ferguson Elementary School. It kinda "stubbed" my foot, which in turn hurt my right knee. I finished my run, but at a little slower pace than I had been going due to the knee pain (not sidelining--just annoying). The end of my run was at Kim's son, James, first birthday party. I think that gave me some incentive to finish--wanting to make it before it was over & seeing everyone. She was kind enough to offer me a nice hot shower & food, both of which I was extremely grateful for. Once the party broke up, we headed home to my supply of Icy Hot & a comfy napping spot on the couch. I have no idea how long I rested, but I was so glad Shawn let me sleep. When I got up this morning, my left leg felt like it always does, but my right knee was still a little sore (still no swelling). I've been taking it easy around here today to make sure it's back to normal by Tuesday (my second-to-last 5 mile "short" run).
I'm still in disbelief that my race is just three weeks away! I'm getting more excited, antsy, & nervous. Probably par for the course, but it's the biggest achievement I've ever physically made (besides having my boys). I am just praying that I stay healthy & injury-free, that the weather isn't windy, and that I cross the finish line and get that cute little Mickey medal to take home with me. And the best part will be seeing my family & friends along the way (hint, hint--if you don't have plans now, make some to come cheer me on on the 9th!).
Needing to break up World War III in the living room (never a dull moment with hyper pre-Christmas boys in the house). Until next time...
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Five Weeks Left--YIKES!!
I looked at my calendar today and realized a few things:
1) Christmas will be here fast & I'm not anywhere close to done on Christmas shopping.
2) I need to figure out when I can shop without anyone tagging along (tough to play Santa with the boys in tow).
3) I'll be staying at the Wilderness Lodge 5 weeks from tonight getting ready for the race of my lifetime!
It seems like it was July, then I sneezed and now it's December. The training overall is still going well. I didn't get to do my short run on Thursday because of being on my feet all day for a practice TAKS test, but I did run on Tuesday. My long run today started later than usual because I had to take the boys to church for "This Way to Bethlehem" before I could run. I did a different route as well--I just ran around Stevenson Park. It took me 16 laps to complete 8 miles, and it would have been easier with music. I went to press "play" on the MP3 player and it said something to the extent of, "Sorry, lady, but you're an idiot and forgot to charge me. I'll be spending this training run waiting for you in the car." Needless to say, trying to remember the music on the MP3 player is way harder than just playing the music and running. I pace myself with the music usually, so my first 4 miles were slower than usual. I did make a little faster run for the second 4 miles. And even with my pacing piece in the car, I still managed to keep a 14.378 mile pace (did 8 miles in 1 hr 55 min). My knees were a little more sore this time around, and I'm guessing it's because of all that walking on Thursday for the practice test. Icy Hot with the vanishing scent is now my new friend...
Until next time...
1) Christmas will be here fast & I'm not anywhere close to done on Christmas shopping.
2) I need to figure out when I can shop without anyone tagging along (tough to play Santa with the boys in tow).
3) I'll be staying at the Wilderness Lodge 5 weeks from tonight getting ready for the race of my lifetime!
It seems like it was July, then I sneezed and now it's December. The training overall is still going well. I didn't get to do my short run on Thursday because of being on my feet all day for a practice TAKS test, but I did run on Tuesday. My long run today started later than usual because I had to take the boys to church for "This Way to Bethlehem" before I could run. I did a different route as well--I just ran around Stevenson Park. It took me 16 laps to complete 8 miles, and it would have been easier with music. I went to press "play" on the MP3 player and it said something to the extent of, "Sorry, lady, but you're an idiot and forgot to charge me. I'll be spending this training run waiting for you in the car." Needless to say, trying to remember the music on the MP3 player is way harder than just playing the music and running. I pace myself with the music usually, so my first 4 miles were slower than usual. I did make a little faster run for the second 4 miles. And even with my pacing piece in the car, I still managed to keep a 14.378 mile pace (did 8 miles in 1 hr 55 min). My knees were a little more sore this time around, and I'm guessing it's because of all that walking on Thursday for the practice test. Icy Hot with the vanishing scent is now my new friend...
Until next time...
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Longest Run DONE!!
Oh, I just have to post about my success yesterday! :) I completed my longest-ever jalk of 18 miles in four hours & twenty-two minutes (that's a pace of 14.5-minute mile). That included a 15-minute stop at Kim's house for a quick potty, snack, and chat break. So, I guess if I didn't count the chatting time, I was actually done in 4 hours & twelve minutes (which would be a pace of 14-minute mile). The best part was that I felt like I could have done more if I had needed to, so the training is paying off. The next two weeks will be easy, then the 18th is the big one--20 miles. After this weekend, I really feel like I've got it!
I've also got my plane ticket, thanks to Jeremy & Carol Napier. If someone wants to know why I go to church, there are so many reasons, but there are two biggest ones that come to mind: to show God how much I love him and to fellowship & get support from my church family. Without them, I'd be completely lost, and possibly hitchhiking to FL for the race... :)
Off to eat some dinner. Until next time....
I've also got my plane ticket, thanks to Jeremy & Carol Napier. If someone wants to know why I go to church, there are so many reasons, but there are two biggest ones that come to mind: to show God how much I love him and to fellowship & get support from my church family. Without them, I'd be completely lost, and possibly hitchhiking to FL for the race... :)
Off to eat some dinner. Until next time....
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Eek! Seven Weeks Left!
Did I mention that I stink at this? I just keep thinking, "I'll blog later..." and later turns in to weeks later. Sorry for my continued "slackerness"...
Okay, now I need to get caught up on a few weeks of training. Let's start with two weeks ago. I did my training like I was supposed to during the week, and then I had a 16-mile one on the 13th. I spent the night at Kim's house so I could get an earlier start. Unfortunately, the weather was my foe and beat the tar out of me! We had a cold front push through as I was trying desperately to get through my longest jalk yet, so it was a battle in the rain, with a massive headwind for half of the time, and intermittent warm/cold air. I remember about halfway through my jaunt yelling, "Oh, come on! Give me a break here, God!!" as I was struggling against a really hard wind. My time was terrible (15.1-minute mile--my worst yet), but I got through it before my "drop dead" time. The worst part was the injury I incurred during my training. Knowing that the weather was going to be cold, I chose to buy some pants to help me keep warm. What I didn't bargain for was the gathered waistband rubbing the hide off of my back & around my belly button. It hurt so much! It's been almost a week and half since, and my back is still a little tender. Needless to say, I'm not EVER wearing those pants during a run again!
So, after feeling almost defeated, I started training last week and trying to figure out how to do better. I did my Tuesday 4-mile run on the treadmill, but I didn't get to do my interval training on Wednesday due to Praise Team practice at church that got me home too late (9:30pm) to run. Then, when I started running on Thursday, I started getting pain in the bottom of my foot. I got through about 2 miles and had to call it quits because I didn't want to risk damaging my foot. I'm pretty sure I'm developing the beginnings of "plantar fascitis", but I know how to keep it at bay (rolling tennis, baseballs, or golf balls under my foot to get it to release). I'm just praying it will stay controlled until January 10th!
I enjoyed a "short" long run (only 10 miles--still can't believe I'm saying "only" before a two-digit number!), which was a nice break, and I had a few surprises along the way. My brother called and chatted with me (I hadn't talked to him in over a month, so I figured it'd be okay to slow down a few minutes for him), and that put a smile on my face. Then, I was a little over half-way done with my run when I saw a little girl sitting on a bench. I thought to myself, "What is that kid doing there & where are her parents? It's not exactly a scenic spot for pictures." As I got closer, I realized it was my own personal cheering section, Carol, Kaylee, Kim, & baby James! :) They had signs that said, "Go Mandy! Don't stop!" I really needed that. I wish I could pack them up and bring them with me to cheer me on race day, but I'll just have to rally the FL friends to come out. I know my mom will be there, but I'd still like to see more than one familiar face in the crowd... :)
This week, I'm off work for the Thanksgiving holiday, so I'm able to do my running during the day and not at dinner time (almost makes me wish I was a stay-at-home mommy). I did my 4 miles on the treadmill yesterday, and I felt really good afterward. My foot is still a little sore this morning, but I haven't done my "ball treatment" yet. I only have a 30 minute interval training today (yippee!), so I think I can squeeze it into my schedule between baking pumpkin pies & doing some arts & crafts with James, who's home with me today for some Mommy-son bonding time. I haven't told him I'm running at Disney World yet, and once he figures it out, I'm toast. It's his favorite place, too, and I know he won't be happy I'm going there without him. The good news is that when I come home from the race, I'm bringing Nana & Pepaw with me for his birthday on the 13th. Hopefully that will help smooth things over.
Oh, and one more thing, my parents are footing the bill for the hotel room the night before the race. I get to stay (are you ready for this?) at the Wilderness Lodge! My mom told me first that the only thing she could get me was a tent at Fort Wilderness. I said, "Ooh, really?", while I was thinking, "Are you kidding?" Then, she let me off the hook. My sister-in-law works for the Mouse, so she's hooking us up with a deal on the room. Mom said even if something happens and I can't run, we're still going there to spend the night. Way to be supportive, Nana! :)
Until next time...
Okay, now I need to get caught up on a few weeks of training. Let's start with two weeks ago. I did my training like I was supposed to during the week, and then I had a 16-mile one on the 13th. I spent the night at Kim's house so I could get an earlier start. Unfortunately, the weather was my foe and beat the tar out of me! We had a cold front push through as I was trying desperately to get through my longest jalk yet, so it was a battle in the rain, with a massive headwind for half of the time, and intermittent warm/cold air. I remember about halfway through my jaunt yelling, "Oh, come on! Give me a break here, God!!" as I was struggling against a really hard wind. My time was terrible (15.1-minute mile--my worst yet), but I got through it before my "drop dead" time. The worst part was the injury I incurred during my training. Knowing that the weather was going to be cold, I chose to buy some pants to help me keep warm. What I didn't bargain for was the gathered waistband rubbing the hide off of my back & around my belly button. It hurt so much! It's been almost a week and half since, and my back is still a little tender. Needless to say, I'm not EVER wearing those pants during a run again!
So, after feeling almost defeated, I started training last week and trying to figure out how to do better. I did my Tuesday 4-mile run on the treadmill, but I didn't get to do my interval training on Wednesday due to Praise Team practice at church that got me home too late (9:30pm) to run. Then, when I started running on Thursday, I started getting pain in the bottom of my foot. I got through about 2 miles and had to call it quits because I didn't want to risk damaging my foot. I'm pretty sure I'm developing the beginnings of "plantar fascitis", but I know how to keep it at bay (rolling tennis, baseballs, or golf balls under my foot to get it to release). I'm just praying it will stay controlled until January 10th!
I enjoyed a "short" long run (only 10 miles--still can't believe I'm saying "only" before a two-digit number!), which was a nice break, and I had a few surprises along the way. My brother called and chatted with me (I hadn't talked to him in over a month, so I figured it'd be okay to slow down a few minutes for him), and that put a smile on my face. Then, I was a little over half-way done with my run when I saw a little girl sitting on a bench. I thought to myself, "What is that kid doing there & where are her parents? It's not exactly a scenic spot for pictures." As I got closer, I realized it was my own personal cheering section, Carol, Kaylee, Kim, & baby James! :) They had signs that said, "Go Mandy! Don't stop!" I really needed that. I wish I could pack them up and bring them with me to cheer me on race day, but I'll just have to rally the FL friends to come out. I know my mom will be there, but I'd still like to see more than one familiar face in the crowd... :)
This week, I'm off work for the Thanksgiving holiday, so I'm able to do my running during the day and not at dinner time (almost makes me wish I was a stay-at-home mommy). I did my 4 miles on the treadmill yesterday, and I felt really good afterward. My foot is still a little sore this morning, but I haven't done my "ball treatment" yet. I only have a 30 minute interval training today (yippee!), so I think I can squeeze it into my schedule between baking pumpkin pies & doing some arts & crafts with James, who's home with me today for some Mommy-son bonding time. I haven't told him I'm running at Disney World yet, and once he figures it out, I'm toast. It's his favorite place, too, and I know he won't be happy I'm going there without him. The good news is that when I come home from the race, I'm bringing Nana & Pepaw with me for his birthday on the 13th. Hopefully that will help smooth things over.
Oh, and one more thing, my parents are footing the bill for the hotel room the night before the race. I get to stay (are you ready for this?) at the Wilderness Lodge! My mom told me first that the only thing she could get me was a tent at Fort Wilderness. I said, "Ooh, really?", while I was thinking, "Are you kidding?" Then, she let me off the hook. My sister-in-law works for the Mouse, so she's hooking us up with a deal on the room. Mom said even if something happens and I can't run, we're still going there to spend the night. Way to be supportive, Nana! :)
Until next time...
Saturday, November 6, 2010
"Pink & Purple" and "Pizza & Conversations"
I stink at blogging. I really need to set a specific time each week to get on here so I don't forget... :)
Last week's training was pretty good. I did my short runs & cross-trained with the Wii Fit board, then Saturday was the 12 miler jalk. However, things transpired a bit differently than I had originally planned. Shawn (the hubby) had a company picnic for Halloween up at the Memorial Park area in the morning & part of the afternoon. So, he helped set up a "haunted tent" to scare the be-jeezers out of lots of kids and some adults while I tried to keep the boys from killing each other or themselves. Let me just say, poor Nathan has his mommy's gracefulness (yeah, that would be ZERO) and banged his head after he tripped over a tree root. He recovered quickly & was all over the place. Anyway, after playing with the boys, chasing them around, and trying to keep them semi-safe, we headed home for naps. I fell asleep in the car and chose to continue my nap as soon as we got home. Fast-forward about 2 1/2 hours (it was a fantastic nap), and I still had my long run to do. We loaded up the kids in the car and headed off to the in-laws so I could run that evening. It started out nice, watching the sunset, but it got a bit on the creepy side once it was dark. Between being out by myself (because everyone was way smarter than me and were already done running), it being dark (had trouble seeing the breaks in the sidewalk & was terrified I'd hurt myself severely), and it being the night before Halloween, I was grateful to get back to the in-laws house as quick as I did (12 miles in 2 hrs, 47 min). If it is at all humanly possible, I'm not running at night outside again. Being scared of so much probably helped my time improve...
This week, I did my two short runs, but I didn't do my cross-training/interval training. I put the kids to bed after church, laid my head down on the couch to watch something on TV, and the next thing I knew, the hubby was asking me if I wanted to sleep in our comfy bed instead of the couch. The biggest news is that I got new running shoes on Wednesday. They are the exact same style (Brooks Adrenaline), but they're a girl-y pink & purple instead of my previous cool light blue. These babies are the ones that will carry me through 26.2 miles of Disney World! I'm using my old shoes for my short runs & saving the "pink & purple power" shoes for my long runs. I told my dad that new shoes make me run faster, and he just laughed! :)
On a side note, I got to talk to Matt today. His daughter Sarai turns 3 (not 4) on Monday, and she requested "pizza & conversation" for her party at my Uncle Larry & Aunt Barbara's house (Matt's still trying to figure out where she got that expression). So, while they were celebrating, I called so I could talk to the family and pretend to be there. I got to talk with Matt for a good amount of time, and it still amazes me how well he's doing. I think I'd still be a total basket case if I was on my own to raise 4 kids, and he seems like he's taking things in stride. I am so excited that I get to help his family with this run, and it really makes the healing process for me better & the miles from home (1,000 of them) not seem so long. I'm just praying that more donations come in--so far, I don't think I've even raised $300 yet! God's awesome, and He's going to provide for Matt in an incredible way. I'm just honored that He's using me to help!
Until next time...
Last week's training was pretty good. I did my short runs & cross-trained with the Wii Fit board, then Saturday was the 12 miler jalk. However, things transpired a bit differently than I had originally planned. Shawn (the hubby) had a company picnic for Halloween up at the Memorial Park area in the morning & part of the afternoon. So, he helped set up a "haunted tent" to scare the be-jeezers out of lots of kids and some adults while I tried to keep the boys from killing each other or themselves. Let me just say, poor Nathan has his mommy's gracefulness (yeah, that would be ZERO) and banged his head after he tripped over a tree root. He recovered quickly & was all over the place. Anyway, after playing with the boys, chasing them around, and trying to keep them semi-safe, we headed home for naps. I fell asleep in the car and chose to continue my nap as soon as we got home. Fast-forward about 2 1/2 hours (it was a fantastic nap), and I still had my long run to do. We loaded up the kids in the car and headed off to the in-laws so I could run that evening. It started out nice, watching the sunset, but it got a bit on the creepy side once it was dark. Between being out by myself (because everyone was way smarter than me and were already done running), it being dark (had trouble seeing the breaks in the sidewalk & was terrified I'd hurt myself severely), and it being the night before Halloween, I was grateful to get back to the in-laws house as quick as I did (12 miles in 2 hrs, 47 min). If it is at all humanly possible, I'm not running at night outside again. Being scared of so much probably helped my time improve...
This week, I did my two short runs, but I didn't do my cross-training/interval training. I put the kids to bed after church, laid my head down on the couch to watch something on TV, and the next thing I knew, the hubby was asking me if I wanted to sleep in our comfy bed instead of the couch. The biggest news is that I got new running shoes on Wednesday. They are the exact same style (Brooks Adrenaline), but they're a girl-y pink & purple instead of my previous cool light blue. These babies are the ones that will carry me through 26.2 miles of Disney World! I'm using my old shoes for my short runs & saving the "pink & purple power" shoes for my long runs. I told my dad that new shoes make me run faster, and he just laughed! :)
On a side note, I got to talk to Matt today. His daughter Sarai turns 3 (not 4) on Monday, and she requested "pizza & conversation" for her party at my Uncle Larry & Aunt Barbara's house (Matt's still trying to figure out where she got that expression). So, while they were celebrating, I called so I could talk to the family and pretend to be there. I got to talk with Matt for a good amount of time, and it still amazes me how well he's doing. I think I'd still be a total basket case if I was on my own to raise 4 kids, and he seems like he's taking things in stride. I am so excited that I get to help his family with this run, and it really makes the healing process for me better & the miles from home (1,000 of them) not seem so long. I'm just praying that more donations come in--so far, I don't think I've even raised $300 yet! God's awesome, and He's going to provide for Matt in an incredible way. I'm just honored that He's using me to help!
Until next time...
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Updates & A New View
Sorry I didn't get to blog last week. Between my mom being in town (YEAH FOR NANA TIME!!!) and most of us fighting stomach flu (yes, at the same time--YUCK!), it just didn't happen. So let me fill you in on the last two weeks...
Let's see... last week was fairly uneventful as far as my running went. I ran 3 miles on Tuesday & 4 miles on Thursday (but I skipped my Wednesday training due to praise team practice & a sick Nathan). My long run went so much better that Saturday! I had to be done with 11 miles by 10:34 and I was done by 10:21, so I did fine. The best part was that I wasn't the least bit sore on Sunday! However, that was when it was my turn to get sick. Let me just say that stomach flu, singing in front of a congregation, and high heels are a terrible combination. As a result of dashing down the stairs off the stage in heels that were way too tall to dash in, my right knee decided that it needed to start bugging me. Not badly, just a little dull ache. So, I think I may have to stick pretty much to my flats and very low heels until after the marathon. And now we get the privilege of that fantastic "Icy Hot" smell every so often, which also came in handy this week...
Another result of said tummy bug was major back pain on Monday (from throwing up so much Sunday afternoon & evening). I never knew you could hurt your back in that process, but now I know. My poor hubby was a trooper and rubbed some Icy Hot on my back to help me feel better. Bonus: Icy Hot also helps clear sinuses! :)
So, I was a bit leery to try running just a day after the back pain & two days after the stomach flu, but I just ran on the treadmill to make it easier on myself. I was able to do my 3 miles, but I did have to walk a little more than usual. On Wednesday, I did my 30 minutes of cross-training by doing Wii Free Step and some weight training with my little hand weights. On Thursday, I did 3 miles and this time I even ran for 1/2 at 5 mph, which is the longest I've held that speed. My legs didn't hurt yesterday, so I may need to push myself a little more when I use the mill.
Today, I only had to run 8 miles. That sentence alone makes me smile because there was a time not long ago where that felt like an eternity, and now it's an "easy run". I completed my jalk in 1 hr 50 minutes due to the tummy threatening a slight repeat of last week. I decided it wasn't worth fighting over, so I walked more on my last mile in order to keep things at bay. If I hadn't have needed to walk, I would have probably been done 5-10 minutes sooner. That makes me feel like I'm making progress slowly, but surely.
Oh! And I discovered this cool thing! On the Disney Marathon website, they have a Google Map of the race route & 3D views through the parks so I know what areas I'll be running in specifically. It's so cool! You can check it out by clicking on the title for this blog.
Until next time...
Let's see... last week was fairly uneventful as far as my running went. I ran 3 miles on Tuesday & 4 miles on Thursday (but I skipped my Wednesday training due to praise team practice & a sick Nathan). My long run went so much better that Saturday! I had to be done with 11 miles by 10:34 and I was done by 10:21, so I did fine. The best part was that I wasn't the least bit sore on Sunday! However, that was when it was my turn to get sick. Let me just say that stomach flu, singing in front of a congregation, and high heels are a terrible combination. As a result of dashing down the stairs off the stage in heels that were way too tall to dash in, my right knee decided that it needed to start bugging me. Not badly, just a little dull ache. So, I think I may have to stick pretty much to my flats and very low heels until after the marathon. And now we get the privilege of that fantastic "Icy Hot" smell every so often, which also came in handy this week...
Another result of said tummy bug was major back pain on Monday (from throwing up so much Sunday afternoon & evening). I never knew you could hurt your back in that process, but now I know. My poor hubby was a trooper and rubbed some Icy Hot on my back to help me feel better. Bonus: Icy Hot also helps clear sinuses! :)
So, I was a bit leery to try running just a day after the back pain & two days after the stomach flu, but I just ran on the treadmill to make it easier on myself. I was able to do my 3 miles, but I did have to walk a little more than usual. On Wednesday, I did my 30 minutes of cross-training by doing Wii Free Step and some weight training with my little hand weights. On Thursday, I did 3 miles and this time I even ran for 1/2 at 5 mph, which is the longest I've held that speed. My legs didn't hurt yesterday, so I may need to push myself a little more when I use the mill.
Today, I only had to run 8 miles. That sentence alone makes me smile because there was a time not long ago where that felt like an eternity, and now it's an "easy run". I completed my jalk in 1 hr 50 minutes due to the tummy threatening a slight repeat of last week. I decided it wasn't worth fighting over, so I walked more on my last mile in order to keep things at bay. If I hadn't have needed to walk, I would have probably been done 5-10 minutes sooner. That makes me feel like I'm making progress slowly, but surely.
Oh! And I discovered this cool thing! On the Disney Marathon website, they have a Google Map of the race route & 3D views through the parks so I know what areas I'll be running in specifically. It's so cool! You can check it out by clicking on the title for this blog.
Until next time...
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Double-Digit Dumps
Well, as well as my run went on Tuesday, I'm rather disappointed with how I did today. On Tuesday, I ran 3 miles in 32 minutes, another personal best, and had lots of neighbors watching me do laps on our streets. I couldn't figure out why so many people were outside, then I realized, "Duh, it's National Night Out." I probably ran faster because I felt like everyone was rating my running. I skipped my training on Wednesday due to a late night at church and other varied excuses. On Thursday, I was a little sore from the run on Tuesday (probably because I pushed too hard for the onlookers), but I did okay. Today, however, was a different story.
I got up and out the door before 7, and got to my in-laws' house by 7:30. I walked to warm up and stretched a little before I took off. By the time I had completed mile 4 (in about an hour), I felt like I was doing a pretty good pace. By mile 7, though, I was starting to get hungry. I used one of my energy gels, but I guess it just wasn't enough. When I get back to the road that has a church with a clock on it (mile 8 1/2 point), I got discouraged because I didn't think I'd have enough time, so I started kicking myself (in my mind, not with feet) for taking too long and walking too much. So, my pace slowed down, and then about 1,000 feet from my in-laws' house I realized I was actually okay. My "drop dead time" (per Disney Marathon standards of a 16-minute mile) was 2 hrs 40 min. I cut myself off too soon! I actually had another fifteen minutes to go when I got discouraged, not ten, so I would have been okay. So, all that to say that I finished in 2 hrs 39 min. :(
Lessons to use for next week's training:
- Don't speed up to impress the neighbors--you just end up more sore at the finish
- Don't skip your interval day, even if you want to
- Eat a big dinner Friday night so you have enough energy to do the long run on Saturday
- Make sure you KNOW your "drop dead time" so you don't quit too early.
This is also the first time I've done my jalk and I'm a little sore. I guess it's to be expected when you get to the double-digit mileage. I'm really hoping next week goes better. At least Mom will be here to help distract the kids while I'm doing my 11 miles next Saturday!
Until next time...
I got up and out the door before 7, and got to my in-laws' house by 7:30. I walked to warm up and stretched a little before I took off. By the time I had completed mile 4 (in about an hour), I felt like I was doing a pretty good pace. By mile 7, though, I was starting to get hungry. I used one of my energy gels, but I guess it just wasn't enough. When I get back to the road that has a church with a clock on it (mile 8 1/2 point), I got discouraged because I didn't think I'd have enough time, so I started kicking myself (in my mind, not with feet) for taking too long and walking too much. So, my pace slowed down, and then about 1,000 feet from my in-laws' house I realized I was actually okay. My "drop dead time" (per Disney Marathon standards of a 16-minute mile) was 2 hrs 40 min. I cut myself off too soon! I actually had another fifteen minutes to go when I got discouraged, not ten, so I would have been okay. So, all that to say that I finished in 2 hrs 39 min. :(
Lessons to use for next week's training:
- Don't speed up to impress the neighbors--you just end up more sore at the finish
- Don't skip your interval day, even if you want to
- Eat a big dinner Friday night so you have enough energy to do the long run on Saturday
- Make sure you KNOW your "drop dead time" so you don't quit too early.
This is also the first time I've done my jalk and I'm a little sore. I guess it's to be expected when you get to the double-digit mileage. I'm really hoping next week goes better. At least Mom will be here to help distract the kids while I'm doing my 11 miles next Saturday!
Until next time...
Thursday, September 30, 2010
I'm Still Jalking!
Sorry for the delay in updates. It's been a bit hectic the past few weeks. Let's see, where to start...
I ended up getting strep throat a few weeks ago, and I only missed one training day (and a day of work--but at least I had enough energy to get caught up on a ton of laundry). I ran 7 miles at the end of that week, and felt terrible because of a few reasons: 1) didn't get enough sleep the night before, 2)didn't start running until 10am, 3) it was almost 90 degrees when I started, 4) I ran out of my liquids by mile 5, and therefore 5) got dehydrated and had to just walk the last two miles. MISERABLE!! So I've learned to carry a few bucks with me so I can buy a Gatorade if I'm desperate, get to bed earlier on Friday nights, and get up earlier while it's cooler.
The next week was okay, and I was able to complete 8 miles by that Saturday. I started earlier, had backup fluids in my car, and I was able to refill halfway through my jalk. Then, my hubby met me at my in-laws' house when I finished and "whisked" me away to Galveston Island so he could get some exercise done his way--by surfing. The kids had a blast playing in the dirt, but Nathan wasn't too keen on getting water up his nose again (same thing happened on vacation in June). I learned an important lesson that week: make sure you stretch well after your run or you will suffer later...
Last week, I did my training and completed a 9-mile jalk with help. My hubby was at a Men's Retreat that Friday night, so I took the boys and invaded my friend Kim's house again. I got up early the next morning and did my jalk in 2 hours & 19 minutes--a personal best!! I learned a really important lessons that week: I CAN DO THIS!! :)
This week, I ran through the neighborhood on Tuesday, terrorizing the dogs in my route with the pounding of my feet. I even had one feisty little runt dig his way under his fence to "chase" me. He apparently thought the path behind the houses next to the drainage ditch is his turf, and he felt threatened. I'm wondering if there is some sort of pepper spray that works on dogs... Anyway, my cross-training session last night was yoga in my living room after a Praise Team practice that I forgot I had, and I was a little sore this morning. Even with a little discomfort, I was able to run my three miles today at my school. Good side--gravel track. Bad side--barely 1/6 of a mile around, so I had to do EIGHTEEN laps. James helped me out by using a marker and putting dots on my hand as I passed my starting point and holding (more like stealing sips of) my Gatorade. I currently look like I have a rare form of alien measles, but at least I got it done. I had my brain all psyched for my 10-mile jaunt on Saturday, then I took a gander at my training schedule and realized that it's only a 6-mile week. Next week is the big double-digit jalk!
I ended up getting strep throat a few weeks ago, and I only missed one training day (and a day of work--but at least I had enough energy to get caught up on a ton of laundry). I ran 7 miles at the end of that week, and felt terrible because of a few reasons: 1) didn't get enough sleep the night before, 2)didn't start running until 10am, 3) it was almost 90 degrees when I started, 4) I ran out of my liquids by mile 5, and therefore 5) got dehydrated and had to just walk the last two miles. MISERABLE!! So I've learned to carry a few bucks with me so I can buy a Gatorade if I'm desperate, get to bed earlier on Friday nights, and get up earlier while it's cooler.
The next week was okay, and I was able to complete 8 miles by that Saturday. I started earlier, had backup fluids in my car, and I was able to refill halfway through my jalk. Then, my hubby met me at my in-laws' house when I finished and "whisked" me away to Galveston Island so he could get some exercise done his way--by surfing. The kids had a blast playing in the dirt, but Nathan wasn't too keen on getting water up his nose again (same thing happened on vacation in June). I learned an important lesson that week: make sure you stretch well after your run or you will suffer later...
Last week, I did my training and completed a 9-mile jalk with help. My hubby was at a Men's Retreat that Friday night, so I took the boys and invaded my friend Kim's house again. I got up early the next morning and did my jalk in 2 hours & 19 minutes--a personal best!! I learned a really important lessons that week: I CAN DO THIS!! :)
This week, I ran through the neighborhood on Tuesday, terrorizing the dogs in my route with the pounding of my feet. I even had one feisty little runt dig his way under his fence to "chase" me. He apparently thought the path behind the houses next to the drainage ditch is his turf, and he felt threatened. I'm wondering if there is some sort of pepper spray that works on dogs... Anyway, my cross-training session last night was yoga in my living room after a Praise Team practice that I forgot I had, and I was a little sore this morning. Even with a little discomfort, I was able to run my three miles today at my school. Good side--gravel track. Bad side--barely 1/6 of a mile around, so I had to do EIGHTEEN laps. James helped me out by using a marker and putting dots on my hand as I passed my starting point and holding (more like stealing sips of) my Gatorade. I currently look like I have a rare form of alien measles, but at least I got it done. I had my brain all psyched for my 10-mile jaunt on Saturday, then I took a gander at my training schedule and realized that it's only a 6-mile week. Next week is the big double-digit jalk!
And now, the biggest news of all! I have officially gotten the OK from my church to start a fund for donations to be given to Matt when I run the Disney Marathon on January 9th. Donating is easy! Just send a check to my church, Bay Area Christian Church, and write "Boden Family Fund" or "Mandy's Marathon" in the memo line. The money will go straight to a fund that will be given to Matt. My goal is $1,000, but I'd love to beat that and be "forced" to set a new one. :) So, get your checkbooks out and help a fantastic family begin 2011 in a mighty blessed way!
Address for checks:
Bay Area Christian Church
14550 Galveston Road (Highway 3)
Webster, TX 77598-1832
I can't wait to see how God blesses Matt and the kids through this. He's already blessed me with better health, fabulous and supportive friends, and a loving family that is cheering me on to the finish line!
Address for checks:
Bay Area Christian Church
14550 Galveston Road (Highway 3)
Webster, TX 77598-1832
I can't wait to see how God blesses Matt and the kids through this. He's already blessed me with better health, fabulous and supportive friends, and a loving family that is cheering me on to the finish line!
Until next time...
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Week 6 DONE (barely)
Here are the highlights since last blog post:
Until next time....
- I was able to complete my 6-mile run with Shawn last Saturday in Seabrook. The track was nice, but a little confusing. I was glad to have company because I don't think I could have made it back on my own (too many turns, trees looked the same). I had to ration my Gatorade because he didn't bring anything with him. He did discover, however, that a PowerBar gel pack worked wonders for him, but since I gave him mine, I was about dead at mile 5. Now I know to have him carry his own stuff... ;)
- I ran my first 3 miles on the treadmill on loan from Lisa. It was so much easier than running outside (less humidity, fan blowing right on me, in air conditioning)! However, we've discovered that it interferes with the wireless internet connection to the computer in our bedroom. The hubby said, and I quote, "This is going to be the longest 4 months of my life!" Funny, real funny... :/
- Doing my "Fartlek" intervals is much easier on the treadmill because it displays my time. Plus, because it falls on Wednesdays, and we have Wed. Night Bible Study, it's dark when I get home. I'm so glad to have the mill! :)
- I completed 7 miles on my own in South Shore (where my in-laws live--nice neighborhoods with lots of sidewalks), but it was BRUTAL!! Not because of the sidewalks, but because I didn't get to start until 10am. At that point, it was almost 90 degrees out, and with the humidity, it felt like about 95 or 96. I couldn't run as much this time because I got dehydrated (even ran out of both bottles of fluid) by mile 5, so I had to walk the last 2 miles so I didn't get full-blown heat exhaustion or stroke. I knew I was in trouble when my fingers started swelling and I couldn't get one of my rings off that was starting to cut off my circulation. Lots of notes to self this time: 1) don't wait until 10am to START a 7-mile trek, 2) take a few bucks in case there's a convenient store along the way (which there was today around mile 4, but I didn't bring any money with me-DUH!), 3) only wear silver wedding band when running (it's already loose and with the swelling it was okay).
Until next time....
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Off the Wagon with Work & Allergies
So between having small group at church last night & "Meet the Teacher Night" at work tonight, I am off of my training schedule. I haven't done anything in two days, and I feel crummy. But part of that may also have to do with the ragweed around here declaring war on my sinuses. I keep thinking if I could just get this junk out of my face, I'd feel so much better. Anyway, so I'm disappointed that I'm off-track and a little concerned about my 6 miles that are due on Saturday. I have to go those in, especially since I've been a slacker the past two days. With any luck, I'll be past the worst of this allergy attack and feeling better. I can only hope.
The good news is that I've made some progress. I am now able to run 3 miles with only 5 1/10 mile breaks (which is great for me). The few reasons I can give to the improvement are increased endurance, eating better (snacking more often during the day helps), and drinking Gatorade instead of water on my runs. Who would have thought that the stuff invented in one of my favorite places would make me feel better? :)
Well, here's hoping that I can get my 6 miles in on Saturday. Wish me luck & pray for a low pollen count!
Until next time...
The good news is that I've made some progress. I am now able to run 3 miles with only 5 1/10 mile breaks (which is great for me). The few reasons I can give to the improvement are increased endurance, eating better (snacking more often during the day helps), and drinking Gatorade instead of water on my runs. Who would have thought that the stuff invented in one of my favorite places would make me feel better? :)
Well, here's hoping that I can get my 6 miles in on Saturday. Wish me luck & pray for a low pollen count!
Until next time...
Saturday, August 28, 2010
MONTH #1 DONE!
This week was a little crazy, but it worked out okay in the end. I had to do 3 miles on my birthday, cross train the same day I had praise team practice at church, 3 miles on Thursday, and 5 miles today. With the help of my hubby (Tuesday, Wednesday, & Thursday) & Kim (today), I was able to pull it off. Plus, I'm officially registered for the Disney Marathon. Now that I've plunked down $135 registration fee, I feel even more motivated to do it! :)
After a month of training, I feel great and am getting more excited & nervous about January. I just keep praying that God will protect me from injury & illness (although allergies this week have made my jalks a little difficult), provide the funds I want to raise for Matt & the kids, and that I'd see God's blessings throughout this process. I know it's going to get harder, and I just want to stay focused on what's important and work my tail off (figurative & literally--cheesy grin) to bring glory to God and to honor Kylee's memory.
Until next time...
After a month of training, I feel great and am getting more excited & nervous about January. I just keep praying that God will protect me from injury & illness (although allergies this week have made my jalks a little difficult), provide the funds I want to raise for Matt & the kids, and that I'd see God's blessings throughout this process. I know it's going to get harder, and I just want to stay focused on what's important and work my tail off (figurative & literally--cheesy grin) to bring glory to God and to honor Kylee's memory.
Until next time...
Saturday, August 21, 2010
And Now the Purpose of the Marathon...Drum Roll Please!
As of this week, my purpose for being crazy and doing a marathon has been finalized. I will be jalking to raise money for "Kylee's Kids". If you don't know the background story, here it is:
My cousin, Matt Boden, married an incredible woman named Kylee. She was a perfect fit into our family from the start, and it was like she was "always a Boden". Anyway, they had twins, Seth & Lydia, in 2004 a few months after we moved to Texas and when I was pregnant with James. She had another little gal, Sarai, a few years later, and then was pregnant with #4 at the start of this year. Unfortunately, she never had the opportunity to meet little Caleb. On March 17th, 2010, she had been having contractions and back pains, and then a massive headache hit. She took a shower and intended to take a nap, but she passed out. Matt called 911 and she was rushed to the hospital. She had had three seizures, and they decided to deliver Caleb. He was born and doing all right, but Kylee wasn't. By the end of the day, she had lost all brain function and had gone home to be with the Lord. So now, Matt is a single father of four kids, ages 6 to 5 months.
Then, an amazing minister, Arron Chambers, decided to do something amazing. Here's what he wrote:
"In my grief I decided to try to do what I could to help Matt and the kids so I talked with Matt, prayed about it, and — with Matt’s permission — Kylee’s Kids was born.
Kylee’s Kids is a fundraising effort that I’ve established to raise money for a one-time gift to Matt and his kids. On November 7, 2010 I’m fulfilling a personal goal and dream by doing an Ironman Distance race in Las Vegas called the Silverman. I’m doing the race as a fundraiser for Matt and Kylee’s Kids. Between now and race day my goal is to raise $5,000 for Matt and his four kids. I am underwriting this fundraising effort and EVERY SINGLE penny that is collected in this campaign will go directly to Matt and Kylee’s kids.*"
I told Arron that I thought it was so incredible that he was going to do that and it made me want to do something big for Matt, too (this was within a month, I think, of her death).
Okay, so fast-forward to July & Windy's "kingdom card". So, the Disney marathon is my "big" thing to raise money for Matt. I haven't gotten a website set yet, but I will soon, with lots of help from my techno-savvy hubby. I am also planning to pay for my entrance fee & expenses for doing the race so that Matt can have all the money I raise go straight to taking care of the kids.
So, as one of my students loved to say, "It's on like Donkey-Kong!" I'm at the end of my third week of training, and I have a very clear goals in mind: (1) Finish the Disney Marathon, & (2) Raise $1,000 to give to Matt when I finish the race. Praying for blessings in giving (would love to raise more if possible), blessings on his family & mine during this training time, and for an injury-free & healthy 20-some-odd weeks until the big race!
My cousin, Matt Boden, married an incredible woman named Kylee. She was a perfect fit into our family from the start, and it was like she was "always a Boden". Anyway, they had twins, Seth & Lydia, in 2004 a few months after we moved to Texas and when I was pregnant with James. She had another little gal, Sarai, a few years later, and then was pregnant with #4 at the start of this year. Unfortunately, she never had the opportunity to meet little Caleb. On March 17th, 2010, she had been having contractions and back pains, and then a massive headache hit. She took a shower and intended to take a nap, but she passed out. Matt called 911 and she was rushed to the hospital. She had had three seizures, and they decided to deliver Caleb. He was born and doing all right, but Kylee wasn't. By the end of the day, she had lost all brain function and had gone home to be with the Lord. So now, Matt is a single father of four kids, ages 6 to 5 months.
Then, an amazing minister, Arron Chambers, decided to do something amazing. Here's what he wrote:
"In my grief I decided to try to do what I could to help Matt and the kids so I talked with Matt, prayed about it, and — with Matt’s permission — Kylee’s Kids was born.
Kylee’s Kids is a fundraising effort that I’ve established to raise money for a one-time gift to Matt and his kids. On November 7, 2010 I’m fulfilling a personal goal and dream by doing an Ironman Distance race in Las Vegas called the Silverman. I’m doing the race as a fundraiser for Matt and Kylee’s Kids. Between now and race day my goal is to raise $5,000 for Matt and his four kids. I am underwriting this fundraising effort and EVERY SINGLE penny that is collected in this campaign will go directly to Matt and Kylee’s kids.*"
I told Arron that I thought it was so incredible that he was going to do that and it made me want to do something big for Matt, too (this was within a month, I think, of her death).
Okay, so fast-forward to July & Windy's "kingdom card". So, the Disney marathon is my "big" thing to raise money for Matt. I haven't gotten a website set yet, but I will soon, with lots of help from my techno-savvy hubby. I am also planning to pay for my entrance fee & expenses for doing the race so that Matt can have all the money I raise go straight to taking care of the kids.
So, as one of my students loved to say, "It's on like Donkey-Kong!" I'm at the end of my third week of training, and I have a very clear goals in mind: (1) Finish the Disney Marathon, & (2) Raise $1,000 to give to Matt when I finish the race. Praying for blessings in giving (would love to raise more if possible), blessings on his family & mine during this training time, and for an injury-free & healthy 20-some-odd weeks until the big race!
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
A Lesson in Water & Work
I'm back to work full-time as of Monday, so training will be getting a whole lot more challenging. My options are to either get up at 4 am, go before I eat dinner, or wait 30 minutes after I eat dinner to exercise. So, I'm choosing to exercise before I eat so I'm not having to work out late at night. We'll see if it works or not.
On Monday, a terrific thunderstorm rolled through our area, and I was panicked that I wouldn't be able to get my miles in. Luckily, the weather cleared out, dropped the temperature a couple of degrees, increased the humidity, and I was able to keep on schedule. I did a 3-mile "jalk" around the neighborhood while my family ate the dinner I fixed for them. The first mile was good, except for the dog that decided I was an obvious threat to his territory. He barked & carried on, and even tried to follow me for about 50 ft. I'm just glad he didn't try anything foolish. The second mile was not-so-good when I realized that I hadn't had more than about 8 oz of water all day (had coffee during training meeting & iced tea at lunch). YIKES! I had a stitch in my side and some cramping in my tummy that I just had to suffer through for the rest of my training (which, by the way, I was chastising myself for not hydrating properly during the day). I eventually made it, and was able to enjoy the dinner I had cooked once the kids were down to sleep (Nathan kept begging off of my plate, so I had to stop eating & give a little attention to him).
Lesson learned: I'm drinking more water during the day so I don't have to suffer through another one of those miserable waterless training runs if at all possible.
Now, if you'll excuse me, "Fartlek" & I have a 20-minute date followed by a nice wheat pasta dinner!
Until next time...
On Monday, a terrific thunderstorm rolled through our area, and I was panicked that I wouldn't be able to get my miles in. Luckily, the weather cleared out, dropped the temperature a couple of degrees, increased the humidity, and I was able to keep on schedule. I did a 3-mile "jalk" around the neighborhood while my family ate the dinner I fixed for them. The first mile was good, except for the dog that decided I was an obvious threat to his territory. He barked & carried on, and even tried to follow me for about 50 ft. I'm just glad he didn't try anything foolish. The second mile was not-so-good when I realized that I hadn't had more than about 8 oz of water all day (had coffee during training meeting & iced tea at lunch). YIKES! I had a stitch in my side and some cramping in my tummy that I just had to suffer through for the rest of my training (which, by the way, I was chastising myself for not hydrating properly during the day). I eventually made it, and was able to enjoy the dinner I had cooked once the kids were down to sleep (Nathan kept begging off of my plate, so I had to stop eating & give a little attention to him).
Lesson learned: I'm drinking more water during the day so I don't have to suffer through another one of those miserable waterless training runs if at all possible.
Now, if you'll excuse me, "Fartlek" & I have a 20-minute date followed by a nice wheat pasta dinner!
Until next time...
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Week 2 of Training DONE!
So far, so good. I've survived two weeks of training, and I feel pretty good, aside from the "Fartlek" day. I completed three miles of jalking in roughly 40 minutes. And I say "roughly" because my stupid pedometer (with timer, step counter, etc.) broke this morning (reset button is MIA)--that's what I get for buying a cheap one. The next one I buy will be better, and probably a watch, instead of a hip clip (harder to check time & mileage when you're looking at a little box on your waist). The food changes have been beneficial, and I even have the family eating wheat bread & wheat pasta with minimal complaints (of course, just about ANY meal will come with at least one when little guys are involved). I'll be curious to see how next week goes, since I'll be back to work, getting ready for the school year, and trying to figure out when to fit my training sessions into my schedule.
Until next time...
Until next time...
Friday, August 13, 2010
"Jalking" in the Rain
I had the opportunity to get my 2 miles in first thing in the morning yesterday, due to a sick hubby (bad) and sleeping kids (good). When I opened the garage door to make my escape, I got a surprise--it was sprinkling! I have heard that training in the rain actually feels pretty good, so I figured I'd give it a whirl. I set the MP3 player to "random", hit play, and started warming up. The first song, I kid you not, was Chris Rice's "Smellin' Coffee," which made me smile, and every other song the little machine randomly played was just perfect for my mood or my "jalking" pace! In the cool rain I was able to complete my distance easier than I ever had before. Well, that and hating the "Fartlek" training the day before made an "easy" jalk so much more enjoyable! I got back to my house, and I felt great.
I'm hoping my 3-mile session tomorrow goes this well!
Until next time...
I'm hoping my 3-mile session tomorrow goes this well!
Until next time...
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Fartlek VS. Mandessa
I actually had to look this up because I didn't know what the heck it was. On my training log it says:
"These are shorter sessions made up of jogging, walking and some fast running. They offer a nice change of pace to continuous running and they can help improve aspects of endurance such as VO2max and anaerobic threshold. You don't need to know what those terms mean, I've just added links if you're interested.
Here is the format for our Fartlek sessions...
"Fartlek, which means "speed play" in Swedish, is a form of conditioning which puts stress on the whole aerobic energy system due to the continuous nature of the exercise. The difference between this type of training and continuous training is that the intensity or speed of the exercise varies, meaning that aerobic and anaerobic systems can be put under stress. Most fartlek sessions last a minimum of 45 minutes and can vary from aerobic walking to anaerobic sprinting. Fartlek training is generally associated with running, but can include almost any kind of exercise.... Fartlek training was developed in 1937 by Swedish coach Gösta Holmér (1891–1983) and has been adopted by many physiologists since. It was designed for the downtrodden Swedish cross-country teams that had been thrashed throughout the 1920s by Paavo Nurmi and the Finns. Holmér's plan used a faster-than-race pace and concentrated on both speed and endurance training." ( so Holmer was the one who had the axe to grind...)
All I know is that it was the hardest day of training for me yet! Part of the problem was that I started off too fast and that it was already pretty hot outside by 10 am (curse you, stupid humidity & heat index!). I was trying to keep an eye on the boys, my timer, and not die all at the same time. Now, I can multitask fairly well, but holy cow, this kicked my big, old tail severely! The ONLY part I liked was that I was done in 20 minutes. The next time I do this, which is next week, I will wait until the hubby gets home and has the kids before I do it again.
On the good side, the new eating is going well. I'm down to drinking only one cup of coffee first thing in the morning, and not drinking any more caffeine for the rest of the day. I'm also really enjoying more fruit, veggies, and especially wheat pastas & breads. The boys even ate the pasta without a word of complaints, and I didn't tell them it was different... :) And while I was at school starting to get my classroom ready yesterday (and that is a HUGE job, in case you didn't know), someone said that whatever I had been up to over the summer it was making me look fantastic! I'll pay Lisa her dollar later... ;)
Well, it's off for more "cross-training" in the house, i.e. cleaning floors & bathrooms (doesn't that sound lovely--almost as bad as a Fartlek training).
Until next time...
"These are shorter sessions made up of jogging, walking and some fast running. They offer a nice change of pace to continuous running and they can help improve aspects of endurance such as VO2max and anaerobic threshold. You don't need to know what those terms mean, I've just added links if you're interested.
Here is the format for our Fartlek sessions...
- Warm Up with 5-10 minutes of light jogging
- Run for 4 minutes, jog slowly for 1 minute. This one cycle
- Repeat for the prescribed amount of time (see chart at bottom). A 20 minute session would consist of 4 cycles
- On a scale of 1 to 10 (10 is a very fast run, 1 is a leisurely stroll) aim for a level 7 to 8 on the runs
- Cool down for 5-10 minutes of light jogging"
"Fartlek, which means "speed play" in Swedish, is a form of conditioning which puts stress on the whole aerobic energy system due to the continuous nature of the exercise. The difference between this type of training and continuous training is that the intensity or speed of the exercise varies, meaning that aerobic and anaerobic systems can be put under stress. Most fartlek sessions last a minimum of 45 minutes and can vary from aerobic walking to anaerobic sprinting. Fartlek training is generally associated with running, but can include almost any kind of exercise.... Fartlek training was developed in 1937 by Swedish coach Gösta Holmér (1891–1983) and has been adopted by many physiologists since. It was designed for the downtrodden Swedish cross-country teams that had been thrashed throughout the 1920s by Paavo Nurmi and the Finns. Holmér's plan used a faster-than-race pace and concentrated on both speed and endurance training." ( so Holmer was the one who had the axe to grind...)
All I know is that it was the hardest day of training for me yet! Part of the problem was that I started off too fast and that it was already pretty hot outside by 10 am (curse you, stupid humidity & heat index!). I was trying to keep an eye on the boys, my timer, and not die all at the same time. Now, I can multitask fairly well, but holy cow, this kicked my big, old tail severely! The ONLY part I liked was that I was done in 20 minutes. The next time I do this, which is next week, I will wait until the hubby gets home and has the kids before I do it again.
On the good side, the new eating is going well. I'm down to drinking only one cup of coffee first thing in the morning, and not drinking any more caffeine for the rest of the day. I'm also really enjoying more fruit, veggies, and especially wheat pastas & breads. The boys even ate the pasta without a word of complaints, and I didn't tell them it was different... :) And while I was at school starting to get my classroom ready yesterday (and that is a HUGE job, in case you didn't know), someone said that whatever I had been up to over the summer it was making me look fantastic! I'll pay Lisa her dollar later... ;)
Well, it's off for more "cross-training" in the house, i.e. cleaning floors & bathrooms (doesn't that sound lovely--almost as bad as a Fartlek training).
Until next time...
Monday, August 9, 2010
Week 2 of Training Begins!
I'm so glad that I have a network of terrific friends out here! Jenn came over with her three sweet kids, brought breakfast, and watched my boys so I could get my 3 miles in today. She even organized & cleaned up James' room for me. I think I'm going to have to petition for "sainthood" for her! :)
Three miles were tougher than 2, but that's expected. I discovered that I really need to get one of those belly pack things for snacks & water/Gatorade. I can't wait until the end to get a drink (I know, duh). I actually met someone who had an interesting T-shirt (print was upside down and said something like "If you can read this, turn me back over in my canoe) on and we started talking & "jalking" (jogging+walking) together. He's a grandpa with grandchildren around my kids' ages and it was his first time to "jalk" after a long hiatus. It made the last mile a little easier.
Until next time...
Three miles were tougher than 2, but that's expected. I discovered that I really need to get one of those belly pack things for snacks & water/Gatorade. I can't wait until the end to get a drink (I know, duh). I actually met someone who had an interesting T-shirt (print was upside down and said something like "If you can read this, turn me back over in my canoe) on and we started talking & "jalking" (jogging+walking) together. He's a grandpa with grandchildren around my kids' ages and it was his first time to "jalk" after a long hiatus. It made the last mile a little easier.
Until next time...
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Week 1 DONE!!
So far, I have survived the first week of training, even with doing "Music In Motion" Sports Camp every night this week! Reflections from training this week:
Until next time...
- Quality shoes make such a difference! I wore my old "Easy Spirit" shoes a few times this week for Camp, and those nights my feet were pretty sore from jumping up and down & doing choreography in 2-yr-old shoes.
- Running in 100+ heat index is stupid, stupid, stupid. I'm pretty sure I've already said it, but I'm never doing it again!
- I actually need to eat MORE. Such a change from watching every little thing and counting every calorie, feeling guilty about any indulgences.
- I need to eat HEALTHIER! There is more "healthy" food in my house now than ever before in my life. I think the family may be forced to eat better during my training (maybe this trend could continue after I've done my marathon?).
- Having music to listen to while jogging/walking makes it so much easier. I put almost 100 songs on Shawn's MP3 player and just hit random. I heard everything from Newsboys to the "Footloose" soundtrack this morning during my "long run" day.
- I had a huge smile on my face when I finished my 2 miles today. It felt awesome, and in just one week I noticed a difference between how easy it was to complete in comparison to the mile I did last Saturday. It also helped that I jogged & walked in intervals, but I left my watch at home, so I don't know how long I jogged versus walking.
- I'm enjoying the time I have to be just me, the MP3, and Brooks (shoes). So nice to give my brain a break and to not be "mommy/wife/etc." for a little bit.
- I never thought I'd ever say this, but I'm really enjoying this "running" (jog/walk). I should have picked this up a long time ago!
Until next time...
Thursday, August 5, 2010
A few lessons learned...
I completed 2 miles yesterday by jogging/walking in my friend Celina's neighborhood while she let my kids play at her house (and by "play" I mean James played Wii while Nathan was into EVERYTHING!). Along my little journey, I learned a few valuable lessons:
1) Completing miles at 3:30 pm in a Texas summer is stupid. Never setting foot outside to train in that heat ever again!
2) Need to take a serious look at my diet and make changes that will give me more energy.
3) Grape G2 Gatorade is WONDERFUL!
I also need to remind myself to do more "intervals" and not try to go as far as I can. I don't want to burn-out or get injured--I have too long of a way to go!
1) Completing miles at 3:30 pm in a Texas summer is stupid. Never setting foot outside to train in that heat ever again!
2) Need to take a serious look at my diet and make changes that will give me more energy.
3) Grape G2 Gatorade is WONDERFUL!
I also need to remind myself to do more "intervals" and not try to go as far as I can. I don't want to burn-out or get injured--I have too long of a way to go!
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
My Training Schedule
Just in case you were wondering which schedule I picked (out of the bazillion online), here it is. Just click on the blog title, and it'll take you there. I liked this one best because it seems the most workable with my schedule and it encourages walking (which makes me feel better). I'm still using other websites for suggestions & ideas for training, but this one should get me there by January 10th, God willing (praying for a healthy, injury-free training)! :)
Week 1 of the Journey
Howdy! This is my first attempt ever at a blog, but I want to try to document my journey to completing the 2011 Disney marathon. Now, the first question that probably popped into your mind would be, "Why in the world would you do this?" And there's an interesting story behind it, which I shared in my Facebook page recently:
Whenever someone asked me if I ran, the response was swiftly followed by, "Yeah, sure, if there's something big, mean, and nasty chasing after me..." But, if you've been reading my wall lately, you know I've changed my mind.
I've been kicking around the idea of running a marathon since Andy Bock & I saw it back in 2002 when we happened to be "playing in the parks" on a whim. It was a rainy, nasty day, and all of these people were running among throngs of guests. But the best part was that all of those tourists took time out of their day to cheer on all of these people that didn't know them from Adam. Despite the disgusting weather, something inside of me went, "That would be so cool to do!" However, since I had an opinion of running, the little voice was quickly told to shut up. Every now and then the voice would pipe up, nostalgic memories of that rainy January day washing over me, only to be told to "stuff it" once again.
My hubby actually was a runner when James was a baby, and I thought he was nuts for spending more on a pair of shoes that I think I had ever spent on a single outfit in my life. But he always seemed happier when he came back, even if he was a sweaty mess... (love you, Honey) :)
So, seven years of marriage and two kids later, I'm getting into a "health kick" courtesy of the bathroom scale, a severe desire to lose the last pounds of baby-weight from Nathan, and our Wii Fit board. I've been working out 3-5 times a week for most of the summer (yeah, I took our week of vacation off because I'm a dope and left the Fit disc home), and even gone as far as to put the boys in various vehicles so I could jog around the neighborhood. And then came "the" wall post...
One of my roommates from FCC, Windy Cobourne, received a "kingdom card" at CIY that she bravely opened. It instructed her to run a marathon. As soon as I read it, I immediately thought of that cold, wet January eight years ago, and decided that this was it. It's not so much a big, booming voice from above commanding me, "Thou shalt run a marathon!" It's more of the voice of a best friend, who knows you inside and out, pulling you aside and saying gently, "You have dreamed about this for almost a decade. What a great opportunity to share an experience like this with a friend, even if she's 1,000 miles away. What are you waiting for? Go for it!"
So, I have bought my shoes, hijacked my hubby's MP3 player, and just finished loading it up with music for my running. I'm going to need to take my time and train carefully so I don't kill myself in the process. But, for the first time in a long time, I feel energized and excited about trying to tackle this goal. Any prayers, suggestions, and words of encouragement will always be welcome!
And that's pretty much it. I'm still finalizing my "mission" for the run, and as soon as I get one more green light, I'll share it.
Whenever someone asked me if I ran, the response was swiftly followed by, "Yeah, sure, if there's something big, mean, and nasty chasing after me..." But, if you've been reading my wall lately, you know I've changed my mind.
I've been kicking around the idea of running a marathon since Andy Bock & I saw it back in 2002 when we happened to be "playing in the parks" on a whim. It was a rainy, nasty day, and all of these people were running among throngs of guests. But the best part was that all of those tourists took time out of their day to cheer on all of these people that didn't know them from Adam. Despite the disgusting weather, something inside of me went, "That would be so cool to do!" However, since I had an opinion of running, the little voice was quickly told to shut up. Every now and then the voice would pipe up, nostalgic memories of that rainy January day washing over me, only to be told to "stuff it" once again.
My hubby actually was a runner when James was a baby, and I thought he was nuts for spending more on a pair of shoes that I think I had ever spent on a single outfit in my life. But he always seemed happier when he came back, even if he was a sweaty mess... (love you, Honey) :)
So, seven years of marriage and two kids later, I'm getting into a "health kick" courtesy of the bathroom scale, a severe desire to lose the last pounds of baby-weight from Nathan, and our Wii Fit board. I've been working out 3-5 times a week for most of the summer (yeah, I took our week of vacation off because I'm a dope and left the Fit disc home), and even gone as far as to put the boys in various vehicles so I could jog around the neighborhood. And then came "the" wall post...
One of my roommates from FCC, Windy Cobourne, received a "kingdom card" at CIY that she bravely opened. It instructed her to run a marathon. As soon as I read it, I immediately thought of that cold, wet January eight years ago, and decided that this was it. It's not so much a big, booming voice from above commanding me, "Thou shalt run a marathon!" It's more of the voice of a best friend, who knows you inside and out, pulling you aside and saying gently, "You have dreamed about this for almost a decade. What a great opportunity to share an experience like this with a friend, even if she's 1,000 miles away. What are you waiting for? Go for it!"
So, I have bought my shoes, hijacked my hubby's MP3 player, and just finished loading it up with music for my running. I'm going to need to take my time and train carefully so I don't kill myself in the process. But, for the first time in a long time, I feel energized and excited about trying to tackle this goal. Any prayers, suggestions, and words of encouragement will always be welcome!
And that's pretty much it. I'm still finalizing my "mission" for the run, and as soon as I get one more green light, I'll share it.
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