I was going to do a long run today, but Tim, the kids and I attended an AKC dog show in Ferndale today, so I didn't have time for it. It was so fun! So I selected a treadmill run to bump my monthly total to an even 40 miles. That is the most miles for a month so far!! Sure, I did more than double that on the stationary bike, but that's because I'm not running 10 miles at a time like I'm covering while pedaling. But I am still very excited to say I did 40 miles in a month. :-)
Maybe I'll shoot for 50 miles next month.....
We're planning on going back to the dog show tomorrow, but I think I might try a morning run before we go. We'll see.
Today's stats:
Treadmill:
Distance: 2.5 miles
Time: don't really know. I didn't keep track, but I do know Mile 1 was around 11:50, Mile 2 was approximately 11:30 and the last 1/2 mile was 5:21.
Saturday, June 30, 2007
My sister said I'm hot
LOL!
My younger sis complemented me on my latest self-portrait. She saw it on MySpace and wrote a note to me saying I look hot. Hee hee. I like that! Especially since she has always been the "hot" one. I mean, this girl was a cheerleader throughout high school and college, and now works with dolphins in Florida (doing shows where she stunts with them, nonetheless). Oh, and she has an AWESOME set of abs!! Seriously!! I will never have abs like that unless I undergo the knife, thanks to my two c-sections. She has always been physically fit and just totally adorable, so to have her say *I* look hot gives me warm fuzzies. ;-)
So I did work out tonight (Friday), but it was a late one and therefore this post will record it as Saturday. I need to break out from this night owl routine! But it is the only time of the day I have to myself, without kids harassing me. *sigh*
Oh, and I noticed my tables on the right side are doing strange things, so I will attempt to fix it this weekend, if I have time. What a pain.
Tonight's stats:
Bike:
Distance: 11 miles
Time: 40:18
Pace: 3:39 minute/mile
My younger sis complemented me on my latest self-portrait. She saw it on MySpace and wrote a note to me saying I look hot. Hee hee. I like that! Especially since she has always been the "hot" one. I mean, this girl was a cheerleader throughout high school and college, and now works with dolphins in Florida (doing shows where she stunts with them, nonetheless). Oh, and she has an AWESOME set of abs!! Seriously!! I will never have abs like that unless I undergo the knife, thanks to my two c-sections. She has always been physically fit and just totally adorable, so to have her say *I* look hot gives me warm fuzzies. ;-)
So I did work out tonight (Friday), but it was a late one and therefore this post will record it as Saturday. I need to break out from this night owl routine! But it is the only time of the day I have to myself, without kids harassing me. *sigh*
Oh, and I noticed my tables on the right side are doing strange things, so I will attempt to fix it this weekend, if I have time. What a pain.
Tonight's stats:
Bike:
Distance: 11 miles
Time: 40:18
Pace: 3:39 minute/mile
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Another humid one
Blech.
I miss my typical Fortuna weather!!
I am tired of this humidity. Weather.com said the humidity was in the 60 percent range again today. And it said it was about 72 degrees in the afternoon. I don't know where their outdoor thermometer is located (or if there even is one here, LOL!), but we have an outdoor one and in the shade it was 77 degrees at one point. And that is quite warm for here!! Even worse, it was 78 degrees in our house!! Almost no homes have A/C here because you usually don't need it, but I would have used it today!!!
So despite the fact it was roasting indoors even with windows open and fans blowing, I decided to do a hard three-part workout. First, I did 20 minutes on the bike, followed by a two-mile treadmill run and another 10-minute bike ride. Boy, it was not easy!!! I think my legs literally turned to rubber on the last bike portion. I am sweating buckets now. I can't wait to take a shower!!! But I have to give the kids baths first because they're hot and uncomfortable, too.
I'm going to throw a vent in here about something I am beyond irritated with: our yard. We don't have a back yard, just a front yard that is now just about dead. We didn't get nearly as much rain this winter as usual and everything just withered. Well, except for weeds. It is FULL of weeds (including ones that have spines on them and hurt like hell when you touch them!!) and insects. I went out today to spray the weeds because pulling them takes way too long and isn't terribly effective, and there are tons of carpenter ants around my planter bed and fence!! Ugh!! So I loaded the kids up and went to the Ace Hardware to get some ant bait traps. I wish we had some extra money, because I would totally hire someone to completely redo our entire yard. I actually secretly wish we could be HGTV's Landscaper's Challenge. I love that show and they always have such great outcomes!
Anyway, our lawn is so unfriendly that I can't let the kids play in the yard anymore. So if they want to play outside, we have to go to the park. I almost can't stand it anymore and I don't know what to do. :-( If anyone has any ideas or has had a lawn from hell, feel free to give me some pointers.
Oh, and I took a new self-portrait last night and will try to get it on here tonight. I like to take pics of myself now and then to keep track of my progress. I think I am looking a lot better now!!
Weather update: It is now after midnight and it is 88 percent humidity, according to weather.com. And it is STILL 78 degrees in our house!!! OMG, I need to sleep outside or something, because it's cooler out there!!!
Other update: I posted the new pic of myself on the right side of the page. :-)
Today's stats:
Bike #1:
Time: 20 minutes
Distance: 5.54 miles
Run (treadmill):
Distance: two miles
Time: 23:11
Pace: 11:35 minute/mile
Bike #2:
Time: 10 minutes
Distance: 2.69 miles
I miss my typical Fortuna weather!!
I am tired of this humidity. Weather.com said the humidity was in the 60 percent range again today. And it said it was about 72 degrees in the afternoon. I don't know where their outdoor thermometer is located (or if there even is one here, LOL!), but we have an outdoor one and in the shade it was 77 degrees at one point. And that is quite warm for here!! Even worse, it was 78 degrees in our house!! Almost no homes have A/C here because you usually don't need it, but I would have used it today!!!
So despite the fact it was roasting indoors even with windows open and fans blowing, I decided to do a hard three-part workout. First, I did 20 minutes on the bike, followed by a two-mile treadmill run and another 10-minute bike ride. Boy, it was not easy!!! I think my legs literally turned to rubber on the last bike portion. I am sweating buckets now. I can't wait to take a shower!!! But I have to give the kids baths first because they're hot and uncomfortable, too.
I'm going to throw a vent in here about something I am beyond irritated with: our yard. We don't have a back yard, just a front yard that is now just about dead. We didn't get nearly as much rain this winter as usual and everything just withered. Well, except for weeds. It is FULL of weeds (including ones that have spines on them and hurt like hell when you touch them!!) and insects. I went out today to spray the weeds because pulling them takes way too long and isn't terribly effective, and there are tons of carpenter ants around my planter bed and fence!! Ugh!! So I loaded the kids up and went to the Ace Hardware to get some ant bait traps. I wish we had some extra money, because I would totally hire someone to completely redo our entire yard. I actually secretly wish we could be HGTV's Landscaper's Challenge. I love that show and they always have such great outcomes!
Anyway, our lawn is so unfriendly that I can't let the kids play in the yard anymore. So if they want to play outside, we have to go to the park. I almost can't stand it anymore and I don't know what to do. :-( If anyone has any ideas or has had a lawn from hell, feel free to give me some pointers.
Oh, and I took a new self-portrait last night and will try to get it on here tonight. I like to take pics of myself now and then to keep track of my progress. I think I am looking a lot better now!!
Weather update: It is now after midnight and it is 88 percent humidity, according to weather.com. And it is STILL 78 degrees in our house!!! OMG, I need to sleep outside or something, because it's cooler out there!!!
Other update: I posted the new pic of myself on the right side of the page. :-)
Today's stats:
Bike #1:
Time: 20 minutes
Distance: 5.54 miles
Run (treadmill):
Distance: two miles
Time: 23:11
Pace: 11:35 minute/mile
Bike #2:
Time: 10 minutes
Distance: 2.69 miles
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Humidity+sun+running=cranky Michelle
OMG, it is so humid here today!!! Sixty-three percent humidity. Ick!!
I went for my run today, thinking it would be a fun one. I decided to literally run my errands today. I had to pay some bills at the doctor's office and buy a couple things at the store. I usually like running to a predetermined place because it gives me a specific goal, kind of like the finish line at a race.
Well, I had a feeling today was going to suck royally after my warm-up walk was over. I was already sweating -- a lot! Uh oh. So I ran to the doctor's office, which was about a mile away. I felt OK at first and finished Mile 1 in under 11 minutes. But once I started my second leg of the run to the store, I started feeling like my energy was just being sucked from my body. And the sun was pounding down on my face, which made me sweat that much more. I kinda missed the clouds today. :-(
Anyway, the remainder of the run was all sorts of crappy. My body felt sluggish after a while and I had to keep stopping to rehydrate (I still haven't mastered running with the stroller and drinking yet). I couldn't wait to be done. I'm sure I got my runner's high, but it was overshadowed by my general feeling of yuckiness. When I finally finished, I was so happy. Plus, I actually finished faster than I thought I would, despite the fact my second mile was REALLY slow.
I can now understand how awful it must be for those of you in the southern states, where it gets really humid. I am thinking of Laurel, Jason and my sister-in-law Becky, specifically. I think I would die if I had to run in that all the time!! Here's hoping it's not so muggy next time I go out.
Today's stats:
Run:
Distance: 3.1 miles (5K)
Time: 35:04
Pace: 11:19 min/mile
Splits:
Mile 1: 10:41
Mile 2: 11:42
Mile 3: 11:39
.10 mile: 1:01 (10:23 minute/mile pace)
I went for my run today, thinking it would be a fun one. I decided to literally run my errands today. I had to pay some bills at the doctor's office and buy a couple things at the store. I usually like running to a predetermined place because it gives me a specific goal, kind of like the finish line at a race.
Well, I had a feeling today was going to suck royally after my warm-up walk was over. I was already sweating -- a lot! Uh oh. So I ran to the doctor's office, which was about a mile away. I felt OK at first and finished Mile 1 in under 11 minutes. But once I started my second leg of the run to the store, I started feeling like my energy was just being sucked from my body. And the sun was pounding down on my face, which made me sweat that much more. I kinda missed the clouds today. :-(
Anyway, the remainder of the run was all sorts of crappy. My body felt sluggish after a while and I had to keep stopping to rehydrate (I still haven't mastered running with the stroller and drinking yet). I couldn't wait to be done. I'm sure I got my runner's high, but it was overshadowed by my general feeling of yuckiness. When I finally finished, I was so happy. Plus, I actually finished faster than I thought I would, despite the fact my second mile was REALLY slow.
I can now understand how awful it must be for those of you in the southern states, where it gets really humid. I am thinking of Laurel, Jason and my sister-in-law Becky, specifically. I think I would die if I had to run in that all the time!! Here's hoping it's not so muggy next time I go out.
Today's stats:
Run:
Distance: 3.1 miles (5K)
Time: 35:04
Pace: 11:19 min/mile
Splits:
Mile 1: 10:41
Mile 2: 11:42
Mile 3: 11:39
.10 mile: 1:01 (10:23 minute/mile pace)
Monday, June 25, 2007
Ouch!!
So yesterday's long run left my hips quite sore today. It was kind of a bummer, especially since the run itself went so well. I think I will be doing more longer runs from here on out. My next weekend goal is seven miles. I was close to that this weekend, so I know I can do it.
I opted for a slow bike ride tonight to shake some of the soreness out. So far, so good. Let's see how I feel when my legs are cold again. LOL!!
I found some running inspiration this weekend, courtesy of the Western States 100 Endurance Run. It's a 100-mile trail race that starts in Squaw Valley and ends in my hometown of Auburn, CA. The finish line is actually on the track of Placer High School, my alma mater (Class of '93, woo hoo!!!). A few days before the race, I checked out the Web site (www.ws100.com) and found it to be very interesting. Many of the competitors were years older than myself. I mean, there was at least one 70-year-old (and he did finish). It got me to thinking about my running future. Is there ever a chance I would do an ultramarathon? I have always thought that is something out of reach for me. But maybe not? It's kind of exciting to think that in the next several years, I could be doing LONG races, too. Of course I have to get past a half mary first, but I think you guys know what I mean.
Oh, I am still thinking of joining the local running club. Do any of you belong to a running club? I am a little hesitant because I am still a novice, but I know a lot of the people in the club aren't much more experienced than I. It's a relatively small club, with around 140 members to date. The club holds runs periodically, and it sounds like it would be fun to have others to run with from time to time. Yet I am still on the fence. Maybe I'll join in August as a birthday present to myself. ;-)
Today's stats:
Bike:
Time: 30 minutes
Distance: 7.66 miles
I opted for a slow bike ride tonight to shake some of the soreness out. So far, so good. Let's see how I feel when my legs are cold again. LOL!!
I found some running inspiration this weekend, courtesy of the Western States 100 Endurance Run. It's a 100-mile trail race that starts in Squaw Valley and ends in my hometown of Auburn, CA. The finish line is actually on the track of Placer High School, my alma mater (Class of '93, woo hoo!!!). A few days before the race, I checked out the Web site (www.ws100.com) and found it to be very interesting. Many of the competitors were years older than myself. I mean, there was at least one 70-year-old (and he did finish). It got me to thinking about my running future. Is there ever a chance I would do an ultramarathon? I have always thought that is something out of reach for me. But maybe not? It's kind of exciting to think that in the next several years, I could be doing LONG races, too. Of course I have to get past a half mary first, but I think you guys know what I mean.
Oh, I am still thinking of joining the local running club. Do any of you belong to a running club? I am a little hesitant because I am still a novice, but I know a lot of the people in the club aren't much more experienced than I. It's a relatively small club, with around 140 members to date. The club holds runs periodically, and it sounds like it would be fun to have others to run with from time to time. Yet I am still on the fence. Maybe I'll join in August as a birthday present to myself. ;-)
Today's stats:
Bike:
Time: 30 minutes
Distance: 7.66 miles
Sometimes people disgust me
You know, I try to keep things unrelated to working out to a minimum on this blog, but I saw this Website this morning and just had to post about it. There are lots of sick, stupid people in this world, but I think these morons take the cake.
Here's the link:
http://www.helpmybabylive.com/
Since when is it OK to basically demand ransom for your unborn child? Just the fact these sickos are saying "give me money or I will abort my unborn baby" makes me want to puke. Tim and I certainly didn't have $50,000 in our account when we had our kids. And we don't have that kind of money today. But we do own a house and our cars, so I guess we're a step ahead of these idiots.
I am just so upset over this. I wish I knew who to contact regarding this site to get it shut down. I mean, can this even be legal? I don't know. But I don't think it should be. How utterly disgusting.
Here's the link:
http://www.helpmybabylive.com/
Since when is it OK to basically demand ransom for your unborn child? Just the fact these sickos are saying "give me money or I will abort my unborn baby" makes me want to puke. Tim and I certainly didn't have $50,000 in our account when we had our kids. And we don't have that kind of money today. But we do own a house and our cars, so I guess we're a step ahead of these idiots.
I am just so upset over this. I wish I knew who to contact regarding this site to get it shut down. I mean, can this even be legal? I don't know. But I don't think it should be. How utterly disgusting.
Sunday, June 24, 2007
Case of the Sundays
To take a line from "Office Space," one of my favorite movies, I had a case of the Mondays.
Only, today was Sunday.
I don't know why, but for some reason I felt down and sluggish this morning. Just blah. I even went back to bed for a couple hours around noon.
I decided to brave my long run later in the afternoon. I fully expected it to suck, like my buddy Lisa's bike ride did. I normally don't feel this way about a run, but I wasn't looking forward to it.
But a strange thing happened. After I forced myself out the door and actually started running, I enjoyed it. And with every step I took, I felt better about myself and my formerly crummy day. It was amazing. I enjoyed it so much I ended up going until I had run a personal best for a 10K distance. Yes!!! Oh, and I also set a PR for five miles by almost a minute, which was very cool!!
Today's stats:
Run:
Distance: 6.2 miles
Time: 1:11:30 (new PR; former PR was 1:13:28 set on May 6)
Pace: 11:32 minute/mile
Splits:
Mile 1: 11:49
Mile 2: 11:41
Mile 3: 11:15
Mile 4: 11:30
Mile 5: 11:23
Mile 6: 11:37
.20 mile: 2:12 (11-minute pace)
Only, today was Sunday.
I don't know why, but for some reason I felt down and sluggish this morning. Just blah. I even went back to bed for a couple hours around noon.
I decided to brave my long run later in the afternoon. I fully expected it to suck, like my buddy Lisa's bike ride did. I normally don't feel this way about a run, but I wasn't looking forward to it.
But a strange thing happened. After I forced myself out the door and actually started running, I enjoyed it. And with every step I took, I felt better about myself and my formerly crummy day. It was amazing. I enjoyed it so much I ended up going until I had run a personal best for a 10K distance. Yes!!! Oh, and I also set a PR for five miles by almost a minute, which was very cool!!
Today's stats:
Run:
Distance: 6.2 miles
Time: 1:11:30 (new PR; former PR was 1:13:28 set on May 6)
Pace: 11:32 minute/mile
Splits:
Mile 1: 11:49
Mile 2: 11:41
Mile 3: 11:15
Mile 4: 11:30
Mile 5: 11:23
Mile 6: 11:37
.20 mile: 2:12 (11-minute pace)
Friday, June 22, 2007
Holy sore legs, Batman!!!
OMG, the backs of my thighs are SO sore today following the rigorous weed-pulling I did yesterday. I seriously thought about scrapping my run today. But Matty took a nap later in the afternoon, giving me some free time, since Kara said she was also tired and went to lie down on my bed. So I hopped on the treadmill for three miles. But this time I did the distance in one-mile increments. After each mile I stopped to write down my time and rehydrate.
And it seems I have a much easier time doing negative splits while on the treadmill. Probably because I want to go so fast in my early miles when I'm outside and then I get tired later on. But the treadmill allows me to control how fast I go, so I can do negative splits without even thinking about it. ;-)
I am hoping to do a long(ish) run on Sunday. Tomorrow will be spent getting new tires on the van and then going to the inlaws' cabin in the hills. Kara will be spending the night with them, so Tim will only have to watch Matty. Happy weekend, everyone!
Today's stats:
Run (treadmill):
Distance: three miles
Time: 33:39
Pace: 11:13 minute/mile
Splits:
Mile 1: 11:36
Mile 2: 11:14
Mile 3: 10:49
And it seems I have a much easier time doing negative splits while on the treadmill. Probably because I want to go so fast in my early miles when I'm outside and then I get tired later on. But the treadmill allows me to control how fast I go, so I can do negative splits without even thinking about it. ;-)
I am hoping to do a long(ish) run on Sunday. Tomorrow will be spent getting new tires on the van and then going to the inlaws' cabin in the hills. Kara will be spending the night with them, so Tim will only have to watch Matty. Happy weekend, everyone!
Today's stats:
Run (treadmill):
Distance: three miles
Time: 33:39
Pace: 11:13 minute/mile
Splits:
Mile 1: 11:36
Mile 2: 11:14
Mile 3: 10:49
Thursday, June 21, 2007
Busy day!
So I actually got quite a bit of exercise today, and none of it was the running kind!! LOL!
First, the kids and I went on a 2.5 mile walk. Kara did walk some of it with me (maybe 3/4 of a mile) and she kept wanting in and out of the stroller. As we were heading home and passing near a subdivision, we saw a girl on a pony that was being led by her mother. It's not every day you see someone riding a pony in that area, so we stopped so Kara could see. The mother called across the street to us, asking if Kara would like to see Rocky (the pony) up close. I said sure, and they came over. Rocky was very cute and let me pet him. Kara got shy all of a sudden and decided she didn't want to touch him. The mom and I had a nice conversation and then went ourseparate ways. Naturally, just after we departed Kara started babbling about how she wants to grow up so she can ride a pony. Oh, and her pony will be a brown female named Brownie, she added. LOL!!!
After Tim got off work, we took the kids to the park. Kara now loves the "big kid" section, which includes some taller slides than the toddler park. About a year ago, she managed to catapult herself over the side of one of those bigger slides, landing head-first on the ground. Of course, for months after she kept bringing that incident up. But now she loves those big slides, and since I've lost quite a bit of girth in my lower half through running, I can go down the slides with her! I fit and I have a little room to spare! Back when I started this crazy running journey in November, my large butt would not have fit on the plastic slide at all. Talk about a cool milestone!
This evening, Kara and I headed outside to pull some weeds. We had some HUGE ones growing in the front yard. They were almost as tall as Kara was. As you know, I have allergies and have been trying to avoid yard work because everything outside really affects my sinuses. But this time I felt I had to get those weeds out, especially since Tim's parents came by right before and saw them. It was a little embarrassing. But it is very hard for me to do yard work when Tim is not here because Matty insists on putting EVERYTHING in his mouth and I can't turn my back for even a second (that kid is quick!). So I slaved away pulling those horrendous weeds for about 50 minutes. At least Kara had fun, digging in the flower bed dirt and collecting ladybugs (or as she calls them, "Leggybugs").
After I got Kara bathed and ready for bed, I rode the bike for 20 minutes. I wanted to do it longer, but then I realized I hadn't even had dinner yet!! Still haven't, actually! Maybe I should!
Today's stats:
Walk: 2.5 miles
Weeds: 50 minutes of pulling and digging them out
Bike:
Time: 20 minutes
Distance: 5.43 miles
First, the kids and I went on a 2.5 mile walk. Kara did walk some of it with me (maybe 3/4 of a mile) and she kept wanting in and out of the stroller. As we were heading home and passing near a subdivision, we saw a girl on a pony that was being led by her mother. It's not every day you see someone riding a pony in that area, so we stopped so Kara could see. The mother called across the street to us, asking if Kara would like to see Rocky (the pony) up close. I said sure, and they came over. Rocky was very cute and let me pet him. Kara got shy all of a sudden and decided she didn't want to touch him. The mom and I had a nice conversation and then went ourseparate ways. Naturally, just after we departed Kara started babbling about how she wants to grow up so she can ride a pony. Oh, and her pony will be a brown female named Brownie, she added. LOL!!!
After Tim got off work, we took the kids to the park. Kara now loves the "big kid" section, which includes some taller slides than the toddler park. About a year ago, she managed to catapult herself over the side of one of those bigger slides, landing head-first on the ground. Of course, for months after she kept bringing that incident up. But now she loves those big slides, and since I've lost quite a bit of girth in my lower half through running, I can go down the slides with her! I fit and I have a little room to spare! Back when I started this crazy running journey in November, my large butt would not have fit on the plastic slide at all. Talk about a cool milestone!
This evening, Kara and I headed outside to pull some weeds. We had some HUGE ones growing in the front yard. They were almost as tall as Kara was. As you know, I have allergies and have been trying to avoid yard work because everything outside really affects my sinuses. But this time I felt I had to get those weeds out, especially since Tim's parents came by right before and saw them. It was a little embarrassing. But it is very hard for me to do yard work when Tim is not here because Matty insists on putting EVERYTHING in his mouth and I can't turn my back for even a second (that kid is quick!). So I slaved away pulling those horrendous weeds for about 50 minutes. At least Kara had fun, digging in the flower bed dirt and collecting ladybugs (or as she calls them, "Leggybugs").
After I got Kara bathed and ready for bed, I rode the bike for 20 minutes. I wanted to do it longer, but then I realized I hadn't even had dinner yet!! Still haven't, actually! Maybe I should!
Today's stats:
Walk: 2.5 miles
Weeds: 50 minutes of pulling and digging them out
Bike:
Time: 20 minutes
Distance: 5.43 miles
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Scrapped the outdoor run...
...for a treadmill one.
It was fairly good. I didn't go as fast as usual, since I don't do enough "slower" runs anymore to burn fat. Shame, shame. So I kept the pace between 11- and 11:30-minute miles. It felt pretty slow, and I think doing slower runs on the treadmill is definitely worse than faster ones. The time just doesn't seem to go fast enough!!! But I did it, and I am going to have dinner now.
Today's stats:
Distance: three miles running (3.7 total, with warm-up and cool-down)
Time: No idea how fast the run was. I did not keep track.
It was fairly good. I didn't go as fast as usual, since I don't do enough "slower" runs anymore to burn fat. Shame, shame. So I kept the pace between 11- and 11:30-minute miles. It felt pretty slow, and I think doing slower runs on the treadmill is definitely worse than faster ones. The time just doesn't seem to go fast enough!!! But I did it, and I am going to have dinner now.
Today's stats:
Distance: three miles running (3.7 total, with warm-up and cool-down)
Time: No idea how fast the run was. I did not keep track.
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Feeling better...for the most part
So my allergy attack from hell turned into a nasty little illness that kept me on the couch all weekend. My throat killed, my eyes itched, my nose watered and my glands were all swollen in my neck. And my sinuses just ached! But I am feeling about 90 percent better now, so I decided to ride the bike tonight.
Tomorrow will likely be a run, although I am not sure if it will be outdoors or on the treadmill. I am wary of the outdoors with my allergies going bonkers and all. Guess I'll figure it out when the time comes.
Today's stats:
Bike:
Distance: 10 miles
Time: 35:42
Pace: 3:34 minute/mile
Tomorrow will likely be a run, although I am not sure if it will be outdoors or on the treadmill. I am wary of the outdoors with my allergies going bonkers and all. Guess I'll figure it out when the time comes.
Today's stats:
Bike:
Distance: 10 miles
Time: 35:42
Pace: 3:34 minute/mile
Friday, June 15, 2007
Allergies. Ugh.
I am having a massive allergy attack today.
It actually started yesterday after my run. I have always had a history of horrible allergies, but sometimes they just totally kick my butt. I have been sneezing and my nose has been dripping since my run. And now my eyes are itching and my throat is sore from the irritation. Blah.
But I still managed an indoor bike ride today while Matty napped (Kara was watching cartoons). I did crank up the resistance a few notches, so it was a good workout. That is all I am doing today, since I'm feeling crummy. I hope the allergies ease up soon, especially since medicine isn't helping all that much.
Today's stats:
Bike ride:
Distance: 10 miles
Time: 37:40
Pace: 3:46 minute/mile
It actually started yesterday after my run. I have always had a history of horrible allergies, but sometimes they just totally kick my butt. I have been sneezing and my nose has been dripping since my run. And now my eyes are itching and my throat is sore from the irritation. Blah.
But I still managed an indoor bike ride today while Matty napped (Kara was watching cartoons). I did crank up the resistance a few notches, so it was a good workout. That is all I am doing today, since I'm feeling crummy. I hope the allergies ease up soon, especially since medicine isn't helping all that much.
Today's stats:
Bike ride:
Distance: 10 miles
Time: 37:40
Pace: 3:46 minute/mile
Thursday, June 14, 2007
Are there performance enhancers...
... in my water or something??
I swear, it seems almost every time I go out for a run, I end up coming home with another PR.
It happened again today. And again, I was pushing the kids in the stroller. I almost can't believe how much I am improving. Not that I am complaining, or anything. ;-)
I think part of it is I now know how fast I can be (thanks to the last race), and that inspires me to run faster. Part might also be because of the weight loss. It does feel easier to carry this big body of mine around now. And a big part is that I am striving for 10-minute miles on a consistent basis. I realize that is a very achievable goal. A few months ago, I would have thought it was a pipe dream.
Anyway, today the kids accompanied me for a four-miler, and I actually kept my overall pace under 11 minutes/mile!!! That is such a huge improvement from where I was earlier this year.
Oh, and I also set a PR for the three-mile distance. I was actually only planning on three miles, but decided to throw one more on for good measure. I did three miles in 32:29. That is more than a minute faster than my previous three mile PR! Crazy!! But that is great, because my goal for the three-miler I am running in August is 30 minutes, and I am getting closer to that every time I go out!
Today's stats:
Run (with stroller):
Distance: four miles
Time: 43:33 (new PR; old one was 45:48 set way back in April)
Pace: 10:53 minute/mile (I still am shocked by this!!!)
Splits:
Mile 1: 10:30 (this is now my fastest mile time during a training run)
Mile 2: 10:54
Mile 3: 11:01
Mile 4: 11:05
I swear, it seems almost every time I go out for a run, I end up coming home with another PR.
It happened again today. And again, I was pushing the kids in the stroller. I almost can't believe how much I am improving. Not that I am complaining, or anything. ;-)
I think part of it is I now know how fast I can be (thanks to the last race), and that inspires me to run faster. Part might also be because of the weight loss. It does feel easier to carry this big body of mine around now. And a big part is that I am striving for 10-minute miles on a consistent basis. I realize that is a very achievable goal. A few months ago, I would have thought it was a pipe dream.
Anyway, today the kids accompanied me for a four-miler, and I actually kept my overall pace under 11 minutes/mile!!! That is such a huge improvement from where I was earlier this year.
Oh, and I also set a PR for the three-mile distance. I was actually only planning on three miles, but decided to throw one more on for good measure. I did three miles in 32:29. That is more than a minute faster than my previous three mile PR! Crazy!! But that is great, because my goal for the three-miler I am running in August is 30 minutes, and I am getting closer to that every time I go out!
Today's stats:
Run (with stroller):
Distance: four miles
Time: 43:33 (new PR; old one was 45:48 set way back in April)
Pace: 10:53 minute/mile (I still am shocked by this!!!)
Splits:
Mile 1: 10:30 (this is now my fastest mile time during a training run)
Mile 2: 10:54
Mile 3: 11:01
Mile 4: 11:05
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
I am officially a college student... again!
That's right, folks. I am now registered for my first college class in nearly a decade. I was able to register online today for Biology 1, pretty much a beginner biology class. Sure, I have a BA in journalism, but I didn't take many science classes to earn it and the biology I did take I don't remember well. After all, it was 12 years ago.
I start class on August 27. It is an evening class, two days a week, with a lab. I am glad I was able to get an evening class so we won't have to worry about childcare.
I figure this class will be a good way to ease back in to school and build a foundation for the other biology classes I have to take (microbiology, anatomy and physiology) before I can apply to the nursing program. I am quite excited, although I will probably be a bit scared the night class starts. I hope everyone there is old and has kids like me. And I will be a bit disappointed if I earn anything lower than an A! ;-)
Oh, and I did work out tonight. Nothing spectacular, just a peddle on the indoor bike. Now I'm off to prepare for the season premier of Top Chef on Bravo. I LOVE that show!!!!
Today's stats:
Bike:
Distance: 10.1 miles
Time: 35:58
Pace: 3:33 mile/minute
I start class on August 27. It is an evening class, two days a week, with a lab. I am glad I was able to get an evening class so we won't have to worry about childcare.
I figure this class will be a good way to ease back in to school and build a foundation for the other biology classes I have to take (microbiology, anatomy and physiology) before I can apply to the nursing program. I am quite excited, although I will probably be a bit scared the night class starts. I hope everyone there is old and has kids like me. And I will be a bit disappointed if I earn anything lower than an A! ;-)
Oh, and I did work out tonight. Nothing spectacular, just a peddle on the indoor bike. Now I'm off to prepare for the season premier of Top Chef on Bravo. I LOVE that show!!!!
Today's stats:
Bike:
Distance: 10.1 miles
Time: 35:58
Pace: 3:33 mile/minute
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
I should start...
...differentiating between my regular runs and runs done with the stroller in tow.
But then again, it made little difference today. I have been stressed out about a few things recently, and I really released some of the tension during a faster-paced run today. And I set a PR. AND I was pushing the stroller while doing it.
So while the kids were happily watching cars zip by, I was trying to work out some things in my head. Things like money issues, which Tim and I "discussed" last night (complete with tears on my end). And the fact I'm planning on returning to college in the fall after almost a decade out to pursue a career in nursing. I currently hold a BA in journalism, but for some reason going back to school, now that I'm squarely in my 30s, freaks me out. But I really, really want to be a labor and delivery nurse someday, and I know it will never happen if I don't go back to school.
In the end, some of the stress did slip away through the soles of my feet. And I got my runner's high, which I totally love. I think that is one of the reasons I dig running now: all the endorphins. And also because I am getting faster, and getting faster rocks.
Today's stats:
Run(with stroller):
Distance: Three miles
Time: 33:39 (new PR for three miles!! Previous was 34:04, set on June 6)
Pace: 11:13 minute/mile
But then again, it made little difference today. I have been stressed out about a few things recently, and I really released some of the tension during a faster-paced run today. And I set a PR. AND I was pushing the stroller while doing it.
So while the kids were happily watching cars zip by, I was trying to work out some things in my head. Things like money issues, which Tim and I "discussed" last night (complete with tears on my end). And the fact I'm planning on returning to college in the fall after almost a decade out to pursue a career in nursing. I currently hold a BA in journalism, but for some reason going back to school, now that I'm squarely in my 30s, freaks me out. But I really, really want to be a labor and delivery nurse someday, and I know it will never happen if I don't go back to school.
In the end, some of the stress did slip away through the soles of my feet. And I got my runner's high, which I totally love. I think that is one of the reasons I dig running now: all the endorphins. And also because I am getting faster, and getting faster rocks.
Today's stats:
Run(with stroller):
Distance: Three miles
Time: 33:39 (new PR for three miles!! Previous was 34:04, set on June 6)
Pace: 11:13 minute/mile
Sunday, June 10, 2007
First run outside in more than a week
I can't believe it had been more than a week since my last outdoor run. I was a bit nervous, as I have been getting used to the treadmill, but I think an outdoor run was just what I needed.
I decided to take a different route than normal. This route took me on Drake Hill Road, which went into a more rural area where the road does switchbacks down a hill. The downhill came about 1.25 miles into the run, which was good because much of the first mile was up an incline. It was great for my lungs, but kinda hard on my legs and joints.
Then I turned onto Eel River Road, where a local family has a strawberry farm. As I was running by, the wind kicked up and the stench of manure hit me full in the face. Ick. I ran a little further down the road, and the stink was replaced by the sweet smell of strawberries. Yum!!! I love strawberries, and theirs are really good (we bought some back around Mother's Day).
It had been a few weeks since I'd run farther than three miles. I could tell. It didn't feel overly difficult, but I could tell that I've been focusing more on speed than distance lately. I need to make more of an effort to do longer runs, I guess.
Despite that, I was a only a few seconds off my PR for four miles, so that made me happy. And I can tell that running faster is getting easier, at least for the first two miles or so.
Oh, and my friend Lisa has tagged me to post six weird facts about myself. I don't have time to type them out now, but I will try to come back tonight and respond to the challenge!
OK, I am sneaking back on to update with my six weird facts. :-)
1) I am very particular (or anal, as Tim says) about how the sheets are on the bed. I don't like them to be wrinkled because I don't like how it feels on my skin. And the top sheet has to be tucked in well at the bottom or I am not happy. This is something that I have always been anal about.
2) I really wanted to name our daughter Erin. I fell in love with that name after playing a video game on Tim's Sega Genesis system while in college (stop laughing). Even funnier, it was a video game called Super Baseball 2020, a baseball game in which humans play on teams with robots. One of the blonde girls was named Erin, and she was an awesome hitter!! But Tim vetoed the name, and the only name we could agree on was Kara.
3) I am really picky about eating leftovers. If I feel it's been in the fridge too long (like a couple days) I will not eat it. Also, the sight of old food makes me gag. I guess I have a weak stomach.
4) Pretty much the only way I can get a good night's sleep is if I wear earplugs. I am such a light sleeper, and any sound wakes me up.
5) I do not like spicy foods.
6) I love watching not-so-mainstream sports on TV. You know, like bowling and gymnastics. Today I watched the Prefontaine track and field competition taking place in Eugene, Ore. I just love that kind of stuff!! Plus, it got me motivated to run outdoors again. Of course, I also love watching football and basketball. The only sports I don't care to watch are golf and soccer.
That's all!!! I think I have to "tag" some other folks now. Hmmm, I think I choose Sonia, Jason, Arizona Chad and Laurel. Post your six weird facts about yourself!! :-)
Today's stats:
Run:
Distance: Four miles
Time: 45:58
Pace: 11:29 minute/mile
I decided to take a different route than normal. This route took me on Drake Hill Road, which went into a more rural area where the road does switchbacks down a hill. The downhill came about 1.25 miles into the run, which was good because much of the first mile was up an incline. It was great for my lungs, but kinda hard on my legs and joints.
Then I turned onto Eel River Road, where a local family has a strawberry farm. As I was running by, the wind kicked up and the stench of manure hit me full in the face. Ick. I ran a little further down the road, and the stink was replaced by the sweet smell of strawberries. Yum!!! I love strawberries, and theirs are really good (we bought some back around Mother's Day).
It had been a few weeks since I'd run farther than three miles. I could tell. It didn't feel overly difficult, but I could tell that I've been focusing more on speed than distance lately. I need to make more of an effort to do longer runs, I guess.
Despite that, I was a only a few seconds off my PR for four miles, so that made me happy. And I can tell that running faster is getting easier, at least for the first two miles or so.
Oh, and my friend Lisa has tagged me to post six weird facts about myself. I don't have time to type them out now, but I will try to come back tonight and respond to the challenge!
OK, I am sneaking back on to update with my six weird facts. :-)
1) I am very particular (or anal, as Tim says) about how the sheets are on the bed. I don't like them to be wrinkled because I don't like how it feels on my skin. And the top sheet has to be tucked in well at the bottom or I am not happy. This is something that I have always been anal about.
2) I really wanted to name our daughter Erin. I fell in love with that name after playing a video game on Tim's Sega Genesis system while in college (stop laughing). Even funnier, it was a video game called Super Baseball 2020, a baseball game in which humans play on teams with robots. One of the blonde girls was named Erin, and she was an awesome hitter!! But Tim vetoed the name, and the only name we could agree on was Kara.
3) I am really picky about eating leftovers. If I feel it's been in the fridge too long (like a couple days) I will not eat it. Also, the sight of old food makes me gag. I guess I have a weak stomach.
4) Pretty much the only way I can get a good night's sleep is if I wear earplugs. I am such a light sleeper, and any sound wakes me up.
5) I do not like spicy foods.
6) I love watching not-so-mainstream sports on TV. You know, like bowling and gymnastics. Today I watched the Prefontaine track and field competition taking place in Eugene, Ore. I just love that kind of stuff!! Plus, it got me motivated to run outdoors again. Of course, I also love watching football and basketball. The only sports I don't care to watch are golf and soccer.
That's all!!! I think I have to "tag" some other folks now. Hmmm, I think I choose Sonia, Jason, Arizona Chad and Laurel. Post your six weird facts about yourself!! :-)
Today's stats:
Run:
Distance: Four miles
Time: 45:58
Pace: 11:29 minute/mile
Friday, June 8, 2007
%*&#$^@ Internet!
Our Internet was down most of the morning and early afternoon. Bah! Thank goodness it just came back up a few minutes ago so I can write about my awesome workout! :-)
Both the kids went down for naps at the same time today. That almost never happens in our household, as Kara stopped napping on a regular basis around a year ago. But today she must have been tired, because a few minutes after I got Matty to sleep, Kara conked out in our bed. LOL!
I decided to put the free time to good use and do a bike/run workout. It felt great!! I think from now on I am going to do my treadmill runs at a faster pace, like 11 minutes and under per mile, because anything above 11 minutes feels slow now. I never, ever thought I'd say that, especially about a treadmill workout! But now that I know I can run faster, I am going to up my pace on the shorter runs (most of the time) and save the slower pace for longer runs (like four miles and above).
Speaking of longer runs, I am planning a longer one tomorrow. It will probably be five miles. Maybe longer if I'm feeling good. ;-)
Today's stats:
Bike:
Distance: 10 miles
Time: 37:25
Pace: 3:44 minute/mile
Run (treadmill):
Distance: two miles
Time: 22:05
Pace: 11:02:05 minute/mile
Splits:
Mile 1: 11:23
Mile 2: 10:42 (this is the fastest mile I've done in training so far. Obviously not counting last weekend's race. LOL!)
Both the kids went down for naps at the same time today. That almost never happens in our household, as Kara stopped napping on a regular basis around a year ago. But today she must have been tired, because a few minutes after I got Matty to sleep, Kara conked out in our bed. LOL!
I decided to put the free time to good use and do a bike/run workout. It felt great!! I think from now on I am going to do my treadmill runs at a faster pace, like 11 minutes and under per mile, because anything above 11 minutes feels slow now. I never, ever thought I'd say that, especially about a treadmill workout! But now that I know I can run faster, I am going to up my pace on the shorter runs (most of the time) and save the slower pace for longer runs (like four miles and above).
Speaking of longer runs, I am planning a longer one tomorrow. It will probably be five miles. Maybe longer if I'm feeling good. ;-)
Today's stats:
Bike:
Distance: 10 miles
Time: 37:25
Pace: 3:44 minute/mile
Run (treadmill):
Distance: two miles
Time: 22:05
Pace: 11:02:05 minute/mile
Splits:
Mile 1: 11:23
Mile 2: 10:42 (this is the fastest mile I've done in training so far. Obviously not counting last weekend's race. LOL!)
Thursday, June 7, 2007
Yet another race on my schedule
I am so happy to have found another race in this area!
It is the Tim Brownlow Memorial Run, and it will be held August 5 in Eureka.
Tim, who was known in local running circles, was killed in April while working for UPS. His delivery truck crashed during a sudden rain storm.
I didn't know him, but apparently his funeral was standing room only. The proceeds of the run will go to help his family and his two teenage daughters. It sounds like a worthy cause. Plus, it will satiate my desire for a summer race. Ugh, I know, selfish me. :-(
I'm taking a day of rest. I realized last night that I haven't taken a day off since last Friday, so I think it's about time. :-)
It is the Tim Brownlow Memorial Run, and it will be held August 5 in Eureka.
Tim, who was known in local running circles, was killed in April while working for UPS. His delivery truck crashed during a sudden rain storm.
I didn't know him, but apparently his funeral was standing room only. The proceeds of the run will go to help his family and his two teenage daughters. It sounds like a worthy cause. Plus, it will satiate my desire for a summer race. Ugh, I know, selfish me. :-(
I'm taking a day of rest. I realized last night that I haven't taken a day off since last Friday, so I think it's about time. :-)
Wednesday, June 6, 2007
Maybe I should have run outside, instead
Whew! I had a near-miss on the treadmill today.
The weather was nicer today, but I still felt like doing a treadmill run. Matty was sleeping and I didn't want to wake him up to get in the stroller (and he ALWAYS wakes up when I move him during naps). And a well-rested Matty is much nicer than one who is crabby because his nap was interrupted.
Anyway, I had Kara come in the den with me so I could run. I opened the window, turned on the fan and started on the treadmill. Everything was totally hunky-dory until the very last 1/10 of a mile. Here I was, almost done with my three-mile run and going at a nice 10:45 minute/mile pace when the treadmill just stopped. No notice or anything. The damn thing just turned off as if someone had unplugged it. My right knee almost buckled when my foot hit the motionless running surface. Thank goodness I was holding on to the bar when it happened (I was mopping my face with a towel) because I probably would have gone face-first fall the damn monitor.
I looked to see if the plug had come out of the socket. It hadn't, but I took it out anyway and plugged it back in. Nothing. So I got off and started looking around. Near the front there is this switch and it was sticking out. I fiddled with it and figured that the leg of my rolling desk chair, which my fan was sitting on, had hit this switch and caused it to turn off the treadmill. Arrrgh! I fixed it and finished my last little tiny itty bitty stretch of run. So my time was screwed up a little on the last mile (I'm pretty sure it was faster than the time says).
Today's stats:
Treadmill:
Distance: three miles
Time: 34:04 (a new PR for three miles; previous was 34:10 set on May 22)
Pace: 11:21 minute/mile
Splits:
Mile 1: 11:46
Mile 2: 11:16
Mile 3: 11:02 (probably faster than that, though)
The weather was nicer today, but I still felt like doing a treadmill run. Matty was sleeping and I didn't want to wake him up to get in the stroller (and he ALWAYS wakes up when I move him during naps). And a well-rested Matty is much nicer than one who is crabby because his nap was interrupted.
Anyway, I had Kara come in the den with me so I could run. I opened the window, turned on the fan and started on the treadmill. Everything was totally hunky-dory until the very last 1/10 of a mile. Here I was, almost done with my three-mile run and going at a nice 10:45 minute/mile pace when the treadmill just stopped. No notice or anything. The damn thing just turned off as if someone had unplugged it. My right knee almost buckled when my foot hit the motionless running surface. Thank goodness I was holding on to the bar when it happened (I was mopping my face with a towel) because I probably would have gone face-first fall the damn monitor.
I looked to see if the plug had come out of the socket. It hadn't, but I took it out anyway and plugged it back in. Nothing. So I got off and started looking around. Near the front there is this switch and it was sticking out. I fiddled with it and figured that the leg of my rolling desk chair, which my fan was sitting on, had hit this switch and caused it to turn off the treadmill. Arrrgh! I fixed it and finished my last little tiny itty bitty stretch of run. So my time was screwed up a little on the last mile (I'm pretty sure it was faster than the time says).
Today's stats:
Treadmill:
Distance: three miles
Time: 34:04 (a new PR for three miles; previous was 34:10 set on May 22)
Pace: 11:21 minute/mile
Splits:
Mile 1: 11:46
Mile 2: 11:16
Mile 3: 11:02 (probably faster than that, though)
Tuesday, June 5, 2007
Another 10-mile bike ride
I have been doing a lot of cycling lately. Sure, it's on a stationary bike, but I can tell it's making a difference with my running. My legs feel stronger, and they probably are. Now I need to look into incorporating some strength training in the near future to round it out.
I think I will add another chart to keep track of my cycling stats. :-)
On another note, there is a race here in early August that I am considering. It's a three-mile memorial race for a local man who was killed recently in a vehicle accident. He was big in running circles here. I will post about this later once I find out more.
Today's stats:
Bike ride:
Distance: 10 miles
Time: 36:30
Pace: 3:39 minute/mile
I think I will add another chart to keep track of my cycling stats. :-)
On another note, there is a race here in early August that I am considering. It's a three-mile memorial race for a local man who was killed recently in a vehicle accident. He was big in running circles here. I will post about this later once I find out more.
Today's stats:
Bike ride:
Distance: 10 miles
Time: 36:30
Pace: 3:39 minute/mile
Monday, June 4, 2007
Treadmill run
Today was a treadmill day. It was cloudy and sprinkling all day, and I really didn't feel like taking the kids and stroller out in it. So I opted for a quick run indoors.
It wasn't that bad, actually. The only bad thing is Tim nearly made me have a heart attack three times when he came in the room (I was in the den with the door closed). And Kara came in for a minute to watch me run. LOL!
My legs felt good during the run, which made me very happy. And I really didn't worry about my time. Instead, I ran at a pace that felt comfortable. I did work up a good sweat in the process, so that was good enough for me. :-)
Today's stats:
Treadmill:
Distance: 2.2 mile run (2.6 total with warm-up and cool-down)
It wasn't that bad, actually. The only bad thing is Tim nearly made me have a heart attack three times when he came in the room (I was in the den with the door closed). And Kara came in for a minute to watch me run. LOL!
My legs felt good during the run, which made me very happy. And I really didn't worry about my time. Instead, I ran at a pace that felt comfortable. I did work up a good sweat in the process, so that was good enough for me. :-)
Today's stats:
Treadmill:
Distance: 2.2 mile run (2.6 total with warm-up and cool-down)
Sunday, June 3, 2007
Addicted to racing!
I guess the headline says it all.
LOL!
Now that I have run in four races since January, I just want to keep doing them!!
And I definitely don't want to wait until October to do my next one. I am actively searching for at least one this summer. There is a 5K on July 4th in Arcata, but I don't know if it would fit in with our plans.
I think for the time being I will focus more on distances that are 10K and shorter. I will do a half mary some day, but for right now I want to focus on getting faster. Plus, I kinda like the "shorter" races and I feel like I am getting more competitive in my age division.
I am also considering joining the local running club. They put on a lot of small member races each year, along with some of the bigger community ones. Three of the races I've done this year have been sponsored by them. I think it would be a neat way to meet other runners, and they have a circuit series where members can compete for titles in their age division depending on how they finish in at least six races a year. It sounds like a fun outlet for my competitive tendencies. And Tim will tell you, I am about the most competitive person out there (and not always in a good way).
OK, enough for now. Thanks for the words of support, my fellow runners!! :-)
Today's stats:
Bike:
Distance: 10 miles
Time: 36:25
Pace: 3:38 minute/mile
LOL!
Now that I have run in four races since January, I just want to keep doing them!!
And I definitely don't want to wait until October to do my next one. I am actively searching for at least one this summer. There is a 5K on July 4th in Arcata, but I don't know if it would fit in with our plans.
I think for the time being I will focus more on distances that are 10K and shorter. I will do a half mary some day, but for right now I want to focus on getting faster. Plus, I kinda like the "shorter" races and I feel like I am getting more competitive in my age division.
I am also considering joining the local running club. They put on a lot of small member races each year, along with some of the bigger community ones. Three of the races I've done this year have been sponsored by them. I think it would be a neat way to meet other runners, and they have a circuit series where members can compete for titles in their age division depending on how they finish in at least six races a year. It sounds like a fun outlet for my competitive tendencies. And Tim will tell you, I am about the most competitive person out there (and not always in a good way).
OK, enough for now. Thanks for the words of support, my fellow runners!! :-)
Today's stats:
Bike:
Distance: 10 miles
Time: 36:25
Pace: 3:38 minute/mile
Saturday, June 2, 2007
Official race standing
So I indeed finished the two mile race in 20.01.
I was 27 out of 146 women. Of course, the whole race was all women. :-)
I was first out of 15 in my age division.
I am pretty stinkin' happy about that. :-)
Here's a link to the results. You have to scroll down to the 2-mile run results:
http://www.6rrc.com/Atalanta07Result.htm
I was 27 out of 146 women. Of course, the whole race was all women. :-)
I was first out of 15 in my age division.
I am pretty stinkin' happy about that. :-)
Here's a link to the results. You have to scroll down to the 2-mile run results:
http://www.6rrc.com/Atalanta07Result.htm
One helluva race!! -- official report (now with pics!)
Oh my goodness, you guys!!! I had an absolutely unbelievable race this morning!! Almost too good to be true. Seriously. I am still giddy.
I was a little stressed this morning, as I had some weird race dreams last night. One included me running two miles in the wrong direction, only to have to head back and run the correct course. And that course ended up winding through some weird store over and over again, with no real finish line. Strange.
So rather than torture myself through dreams, I woke up about 15 minutes early instead. I ate some breakfast, surfed the 'Net and waited for the alarm to go off before getting ready. I wore the same running pants that I wore in the Foggy Bottom and Avenue of the Giants races. I think they are turning into my lucky pants. But it was a good day to wear pants, since it was cold, cloudy and there was a little mist in the air.
Tim woke up and got ready, and we headed out the door around 8:40 a.m. The race wasn't slated to start until 10, but it takes about 40 minutes to get there. We arrived around 9:20 and found the starting line (and porta-potties, of course). The Arcata Farmer's Market was just two blocks away, so we walked there to kill time. Tim's grandmother Betty has a stand set up there, so we chatted with her for a few minutes. At that point I wished I had some money to buy some fresh produce with. It all looked so good!!
We meandered back to the area where everyone was gathering for the race. It was hard to tell how many people were there, but I think more than 200 women ended up running both the two- and five-mile races. The time seemed to pass quickly and before I knew it I was lining up at the starting line. There were no timing chips this time around, so I wanted to start close to the front so I could get a more accurate gun time.
They counted us down and we were off. I swear, the ladies surrounding me all took off like rockets!! I was running almost as fast as I could and I was getting passed by women pushing jogging strollers! Dang!! But I just kept running like there was no tomorrow and kept up with some of them for a while. About 1/4 mile into it, I looked at my Garmin and my pace was 7:40!!! Holy crap!!! That was crazy!! I knew I couldn't keep that up for long.
But I kept the pace up, and I knew it was probably the fastest I had run in my adult life. When mile 1 was over, I looked at Garmin and I could not believe my time: 9:28!!!!!!! OMG!!!!! Woo hoo!!!!! Well heck, all I had to do was run an 11-minute mile and I would beat my goal of 22 minutes by quite a bit!!!
At this time, the racers split into two segments: those running the two-miler, and those doing the five. The two-mile course broke off from the other and started heading back to the finish line. I noticed as I turned the corner that A LOT of the women running in front of me had gone the other way. There were not many two-milers in my vision at this point. That was exciting! I knew I had a chance to break the middle-of-the-pack barrier for a race! I kept running, eventually passing a lot of slower runners and walkers on the way back. There were some teenage girls running in front of me and I really couldn't keep up with them, although I tried.
Finally, I rounded the last turn for home. In the distance, I could see Tim standing there with the camera. As I got closer I could see the race clock. Do my eyes deceive me? It read 19:45 and I was almost to the finish line!!! That made me run a little faster (although I got passed by this lady who was running like her hair was on fire -- she had quite the kick!!). I touched the finish line when the clock read 19:56; my Garmin read 19:55. Wow. Just wow. I was tired, but something special happened to me today. And Tim was there to see it. That made it that much better.
There were people at the finish line to take the name tag off our numbers so they could determine the order of finish. Then some other volunteers handed all the finishers pink ribbons and long-stemmed flowers. I thought that was a nice touch. I met up with Tim and just felt amazing. He said he was proud. *sniff, sniff*
They started putting results up, and we made our way over to the table. I saw my name; I had finished 27th!! There were about 140 women who ran or walked the two-miler, and only 26 of them were faster than I was!!
But then the real surprise came. They had awards for the first three finishers in each age division. On the results table, you could see each person's age next to their name and place of overall finish. Tim and I looked for anyone else in my age division ahead of me, and didn't see one single person!!! That's right, I took first place in my age division!! And I know there were at least three women in that division because they awarded prizes for second and third, as well. That just capped off a wonderful race for me!!
I got a pin that said "1st" on it. :-) Is that cool or what??
Oh, the only slight bummer was that my official time read 20.01 when it was posted. There was a guy at the finish line who had some hand-held device and he pressed a button on it whenever someone crossed the line. Apparently that device was not synced with the clock and added a few seconds to my time. But still, even if I did a 10 minute/mile average, that is still a lot faster than any of my previous averages.
I am still waiting for them to post the results on the Internet. It will probably be later today.
Race stats:
Atalanta's Victory Run and Walk (women only)
Distance: two miles
Time: 20.01 (official); my goal had been 22 minutes
Pace: 10 minute/mile
Finished 27th out of 146 participants in two mile (waiting for official results to be posted)
Finished FIRST out of 15 in age division (30-34 years)
Oh, here are a few pics. :-) Click on them to make them larger.
Goofing off right before the race started (I'm in the green T-shirt, No. 209):
And we're off (I like the way I look in this pic, LOL!):
Me coming down the home stretch (it is blurry because our camera doesn't like to zoom properly for some reason):
Me crossing the finish line (and turning off my Garmin):
Me with my flower and ribbon:
Check out my new pin!! Yes, that is my hand. I never realized how long and thin it looks!
The results table. They actually took the name tag portion off the bottom of our race bibs and stuck them to tape in order of finish. You can see my name in the second column, four up from the bottom:
A wider view of the results table. There were many columns that we couldn't squeeze in the shot:
I was a little stressed this morning, as I had some weird race dreams last night. One included me running two miles in the wrong direction, only to have to head back and run the correct course. And that course ended up winding through some weird store over and over again, with no real finish line. Strange.
So rather than torture myself through dreams, I woke up about 15 minutes early instead. I ate some breakfast, surfed the 'Net and waited for the alarm to go off before getting ready. I wore the same running pants that I wore in the Foggy Bottom and Avenue of the Giants races. I think they are turning into my lucky pants. But it was a good day to wear pants, since it was cold, cloudy and there was a little mist in the air.
Tim woke up and got ready, and we headed out the door around 8:40 a.m. The race wasn't slated to start until 10, but it takes about 40 minutes to get there. We arrived around 9:20 and found the starting line (and porta-potties, of course). The Arcata Farmer's Market was just two blocks away, so we walked there to kill time. Tim's grandmother Betty has a stand set up there, so we chatted with her for a few minutes. At that point I wished I had some money to buy some fresh produce with. It all looked so good!!
We meandered back to the area where everyone was gathering for the race. It was hard to tell how many people were there, but I think more than 200 women ended up running both the two- and five-mile races. The time seemed to pass quickly and before I knew it I was lining up at the starting line. There were no timing chips this time around, so I wanted to start close to the front so I could get a more accurate gun time.
They counted us down and we were off. I swear, the ladies surrounding me all took off like rockets!! I was running almost as fast as I could and I was getting passed by women pushing jogging strollers! Dang!! But I just kept running like there was no tomorrow and kept up with some of them for a while. About 1/4 mile into it, I looked at my Garmin and my pace was 7:40!!! Holy crap!!! That was crazy!! I knew I couldn't keep that up for long.
But I kept the pace up, and I knew it was probably the fastest I had run in my adult life. When mile 1 was over, I looked at Garmin and I could not believe my time: 9:28!!!!!!! OMG!!!!! Woo hoo!!!!! Well heck, all I had to do was run an 11-minute mile and I would beat my goal of 22 minutes by quite a bit!!!
At this time, the racers split into two segments: those running the two-miler, and those doing the five. The two-mile course broke off from the other and started heading back to the finish line. I noticed as I turned the corner that A LOT of the women running in front of me had gone the other way. There were not many two-milers in my vision at this point. That was exciting! I knew I had a chance to break the middle-of-the-pack barrier for a race! I kept running, eventually passing a lot of slower runners and walkers on the way back. There were some teenage girls running in front of me and I really couldn't keep up with them, although I tried.
Finally, I rounded the last turn for home. In the distance, I could see Tim standing there with the camera. As I got closer I could see the race clock. Do my eyes deceive me? It read 19:45 and I was almost to the finish line!!! That made me run a little faster (although I got passed by this lady who was running like her hair was on fire -- she had quite the kick!!). I touched the finish line when the clock read 19:56; my Garmin read 19:55. Wow. Just wow. I was tired, but something special happened to me today. And Tim was there to see it. That made it that much better.
There were people at the finish line to take the name tag off our numbers so they could determine the order of finish. Then some other volunteers handed all the finishers pink ribbons and long-stemmed flowers. I thought that was a nice touch. I met up with Tim and just felt amazing. He said he was proud. *sniff, sniff*
They started putting results up, and we made our way over to the table. I saw my name; I had finished 27th!! There were about 140 women who ran or walked the two-miler, and only 26 of them were faster than I was!!
But then the real surprise came. They had awards for the first three finishers in each age division. On the results table, you could see each person's age next to their name and place of overall finish. Tim and I looked for anyone else in my age division ahead of me, and didn't see one single person!!! That's right, I took first place in my age division!! And I know there were at least three women in that division because they awarded prizes for second and third, as well. That just capped off a wonderful race for me!!
I got a pin that said "1st" on it. :-) Is that cool or what??
Oh, the only slight bummer was that my official time read 20.01 when it was posted. There was a guy at the finish line who had some hand-held device and he pressed a button on it whenever someone crossed the line. Apparently that device was not synced with the clock and added a few seconds to my time. But still, even if I did a 10 minute/mile average, that is still a lot faster than any of my previous averages.
I am still waiting for them to post the results on the Internet. It will probably be later today.
Race stats:
Atalanta's Victory Run and Walk (women only)
Distance: two miles
Time: 20.01 (official); my goal had been 22 minutes
Pace: 10 minute/mile
Finished 27th out of 146 participants in two mile (waiting for official results to be posted)
Finished FIRST out of 15 in age division (30-34 years)
Oh, here are a few pics. :-) Click on them to make them larger.
Goofing off right before the race started (I'm in the green T-shirt, No. 209):
And we're off (I like the way I look in this pic, LOL!):
Me coming down the home stretch (it is blurry because our camera doesn't like to zoom properly for some reason):
Me crossing the finish line (and turning off my Garmin):
Me with my flower and ribbon:
Check out my new pin!! Yes, that is my hand. I never realized how long and thin it looks!
The results table. They actually took the name tag portion off the bottom of our race bibs and stuck them to tape in order of finish. You can see my name in the second column, four up from the bottom:
A wider view of the results table. There were many columns that we couldn't squeeze in the shot:
Friday, June 1, 2007
Getting jazzed about the race!!
So it's almost midnight and I must go to bed soon, but I am just super excited about tomorrow's race and it might be hard to get any good sleep tonight. I picked up my race bib today and found out that there are no timing chips in this race. At least, they didn't give me one. Maybe they'll have some there tomorrow or something, but I doubt it. That's OK, but I really like having those silly pieces of black plastic to tie on my shoelace. LOL!
I chose not to workout yesterday or today. I felt a little sick yesterday, and it was a given I wasn't going to exercise the day before a race. I feel pretty good now, though. The kiddos are staying with their grandparents for the night (yes!) and Tim and I stopped on the way home for hot fudge sundaes and made a quick trip to the new Indian casino. It was a fun date, and not something Tim and I get to do often anymore. I love the kids to death, but it is nice every once in a while having some time without them.
OK, off to bed. I'll update tomorrow afternoon!
I chose not to workout yesterday or today. I felt a little sick yesterday, and it was a given I wasn't going to exercise the day before a race. I feel pretty good now, though. The kiddos are staying with their grandparents for the night (yes!) and Tim and I stopped on the way home for hot fudge sundaes and made a quick trip to the new Indian casino. It was a fun date, and not something Tim and I get to do often anymore. I love the kids to death, but it is nice every once in a while having some time without them.
OK, off to bed. I'll update tomorrow afternoon!
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