Tonight was my first lactate threshold workout and I really hope I did it right because it kicked my butt! I did 8 total miles with 2 miles as a warmup, 4 miles at half marathon pace, and 2 miles as a cool down.
My first two warm up miles were 8:39 min./mi. and 8:33 min./mi. In retrospect, these were probably a bit too fast for a warm-up. I should probably aim around 8:45 or 9:00 min./mi. My next four miles I tried to do at half marathon pace. The two half marathons I ran were an 8:22 and 8:30 pace so I was aiming for somewhere around there. Instead I ran an 8:12, 8:04, 8:02 and 7:45. I was really happy to see myself pick up speed with each mile. My last two cool down miles were 9:17 (whoa!) and 9:00. Time really flew by tonight. I had no idea I was out there for 1:07:39. It seemed like half an hour!
I think a lot of the time flying by has to do with the fact that I am running without my iPod. I have no music to listen too and therefore am forced to listen to my body and concentrate on my form. I think my leg turnover has really improved because I haven't had the music to distract me. I'm really working on improving my leg turnover, not running up and down (sometimes I sink down too much into my knees), and keeping my wrists loose.
I also did my upper body workout tonight. It consisted of chest press, prone arm lifts, triceps, chest fly, bicep curls, tricep extensions and push-ups. Whoa! I am definitely going to be sore tomorrow. I haven't lifted with my upper body in sooo long!
Tomorrow I'm scheduled for 4 miles of recovery. I work from home tomorrow and am hoping that the rain/thunderstorms that we're supposed to get aren't around at lunchtime so I can get my run in then. I also hope to get to Healing Tree Yoga for my Pilates class tomorrow night too. I love that class!
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Saturday, June 16, 2007
Battle with the Tool Belt & Other Notes about Warm Weather Running
I am book smart. That does not mean I have common sense. It was supposed to be a beautiful day today - sunshine, warm weather - and I was going to take advantage of it by doing a general aerobic run. I prepared my tool belt (a.k.a. fuel belt, but termed tool belt by Sarah because one looks like a tool wearing it), put on sunscreen, shorts and tank and headed out at noon. Yup, you heard me. Noon! See no common sense. From 10am-2pm is the hottest part of the day and I decided to go out. Needlesss to say I learned a few things today.
1. I do look like a tool in my fuel belt.
2. I have to battle with my fuel belt to keep it from sliding up my waist.
3. I get really thirsty at noon-time runs on a hot day.
4. I sweat a lot and I like it.
5. I need to plan my fluid intake.
6. Next time I will bring a rag to wipe off all my sweat.
7. I will wear deep woods off even in the day time. A little explanation of that... I had about 50 of those little dead flies stuck to my arms, chest and legs after my run. They must have drowned in my sweat.
The most important thing I learned is that I need to either wake up early and run or run later in the day so I can avoid the hottest part of the day.
I did have a lot of fun out there. I only saw one other person running. It made me feel like I was getting one step up on everyone else who was training. Maybe it's just that they were smart enough to get up early and do it.
1. I do look like a tool in my fuel belt.
2. I have to battle with my fuel belt to keep it from sliding up my waist.
3. I get really thirsty at noon-time runs on a hot day.
4. I sweat a lot and I like it.
5. I need to plan my fluid intake.
6. Next time I will bring a rag to wipe off all my sweat.
7. I will wear deep woods off even in the day time. A little explanation of that... I had about 50 of those little dead flies stuck to my arms, chest and legs after my run. They must have drowned in my sweat.
The most important thing I learned is that I need to either wake up early and run or run later in the day so I can avoid the hottest part of the day.
I did have a lot of fun out there. I only saw one other person running. It made me feel like I was getting one step up on everyone else who was training. Maybe it's just that they were smart enough to get up early and do it.
Thursday, June 14, 2007
Book Review: Marathon Woman, by Kathrine Switzer
I finished Kathrine Switzer's book, Marathon Woman, tonight. Before reading this book, I really took for granted the fact that I, as a woman, can put on shorts, t-shirt and running sneakers and go out for a run without anyone, including myself, thinking twice about it.
Kathrine takes us through her running career starting out when her father encouraged her to run around the perimeter of their yard because he and her mother did not want her to go into cheer leading. Her parents taught her that life was about participating, not spectating. I agree with them. I've never liked cheerleaders, but that's a different story. I've always played some kind of sport since I was very young. Sports have made me feel strong and powerful. I never wanted to be a dainty girl; I wanted to be strong enough to take care of myself. I think running has helped me with that.
Another interesting point that Kathrine makes throughout her book is that any push back she had when it came to being a woman runner came more from other woman than from men. At first, this really surprised me. Then I thought back to the conversations I've had with a few people in my life about how women tend to act towards one another. In my experience, I've found that some - not all - women tend to only want to help themselves out. For instance, a woman at the top of the ladder in a company, may try to hold back those women who are below her because she wants to remain at the top. From what I've seen women tend to do this more than men. Maybe women fought so hard for equality that now we still have some fight left in us and just aren't sure how to use it. Maybe I'm totally wrong. I do have to say thought that I agree with Kathrine; when one woman is successful or powerful or beautiful, she is not looked at well by other women. (And yes, I will admit I am at fault for this too.)
This book is about a lot more than just Kathrine's battle with Jock Semple. She talks about her personal life, her training, her full time job, how she organized the dream race and her fight to help make the woman's marathon a part of the Olympic Games.
I definitely recommend this book to anyone who is interested in empowering women, the evolution of women's running or just needs a little reminder of why people run.
Sunday, June 10, 2007
Jimmy Kennedy Squirrel Run for ALS - 5 mile
On Saturday, Sarah came down to Quincy and we ran the Jimmy Kennedy Squirrel Run for ALS together. It was a non-certified 5 mile route through Quincy and along Wollaston Beach. It was a very nice route and one that I often run on my own.
It was misting all morning long and pretty chilly, until of course we started running. I had my hat, shorts and t-shirt on, but once we hit the beach around mile 3, I was really starting to heat up a bit too much.
This was my first 5 mile race and I have to say that I think I prefer the 5K to the 5 mile. It was hard to judge how fast to go out, but I'm happy with the way it turned out.
It was nice to run with Sarah again. We chatted a little bit, but we were both going a little bit faster than our old long run pace from Boston training so we couldn't really say too much. Our lunch afterwards allowed for the talking.
Sarah taught me how to do splits on my Garmin so I actually have them now! It's so fun to see them! It really gives me a better idea of my pace and how I ran the race.
In training for my fall marathon today was supposed to be a recovery run, but I just didn't feel like doing that. I can't pay for a race and use it as a recovery run. Mentally, that doesn't work for me.
My overall finishing time was 37:27 (7:29 pace), which was good enough for 16th woman and 7th in my age group. My splits were
It was misting all morning long and pretty chilly, until of course we started running. I had my hat, shorts and t-shirt on, but once we hit the beach around mile 3, I was really starting to heat up a bit too much.
This was my first 5 mile race and I have to say that I think I prefer the 5K to the 5 mile. It was hard to judge how fast to go out, but I'm happy with the way it turned out.
It was nice to run with Sarah again. We chatted a little bit, but we were both going a little bit faster than our old long run pace from Boston training so we couldn't really say too much. Our lunch afterwards allowed for the talking.
Sarah taught me how to do splits on my Garmin so I actually have them now! It's so fun to see them! It really gives me a better idea of my pace and how I ran the race.
In training for my fall marathon today was supposed to be a recovery run, but I just didn't feel like doing that. I can't pay for a race and use it as a recovery run. Mentally, that doesn't work for me.
My overall finishing time was 37:27 (7:29 pace), which was good enough for 16th woman and 7th in my age group. My splits were
Mile 1: 8:00 min./mi.
Mile 2: 7:25 min./mi.
Mile 3: 7:33 min./mi.
Mile 4: 7:35 min./mi.
Mile 5: 7:27 min./mi.
I don't know when I'll race again. It seems like I've been doing a lot of it lately and I'm really starting my fall marathon training now so I need to focus on that. Hopefully, I'll be able to squeeze in some more good race though.
Oh, looks like the fall marathon will be Mohawk Hudson River Marathon in Albany, NY. For now that's what I'm training for, but I'm not registered yet and I don't know why. I think I'm just delaying the inevitable.
Vision 5K - PR!!
I did it! I got my PR in the Vision 5K on June 2nd, 2007. I could not have been happier with my race. OK, that's not true. I could always be happier, but I was very happy with the way I ran.
This was the race that I organized a team from my company for. We ended up having 19 total participants, which I was psyched about. We had 5 walkers and 14 runners. Four of the runners placed in their age group. Our Men's and Women's teams each took first place and as a Co-Ed team we came in second place. I had no idea that we were such a fast company!
I ended up running the 5K in 22:17 (7:11 pace). I came in 42nd overall, 2nd in my age group and the 7th woman overall. My strategy was basically just to lay it all on the line. I went out as fast as I could while holding back enough to be able to finish. I did the first mile wicked fast, eased in for the second while trying to maintain a good push, held on for the first half of the third and then kicked it in for the second half of the 3rd. I was trying to catch one of the girls from my team, but I just couldn't catch her. She was too fast for me that day!
I crossed the finish and really thought I was going to vomit. It was such a hot and humid morning and I really wasn't hydrated enough. My manager was sitting at the finish and when I walked over to him I thought, "Oh my goodness, I am going to throw up on my manager." Luckily, I didn't and the feeling passed.
I really hope that the company decides to do something like this again and that they let me organize it. It really sounded like everyone had a great time and we definitely got the opportunity to get up and get some exercise!
Results from coolrunning.com
This was the race that I organized a team from my company for. We ended up having 19 total participants, which I was psyched about. We had 5 walkers and 14 runners. Four of the runners placed in their age group. Our Men's and Women's teams each took first place and as a Co-Ed team we came in second place. I had no idea that we were such a fast company!
I ended up running the 5K in 22:17 (7:11 pace). I came in 42nd overall, 2nd in my age group and the 7th woman overall. My strategy was basically just to lay it all on the line. I went out as fast as I could while holding back enough to be able to finish. I did the first mile wicked fast, eased in for the second while trying to maintain a good push, held on for the first half of the third and then kicked it in for the second half of the 3rd. I was trying to catch one of the girls from my team, but I just couldn't catch her. She was too fast for me that day!
I crossed the finish and really thought I was going to vomit. It was such a hot and humid morning and I really wasn't hydrated enough. My manager was sitting at the finish and when I walked over to him I thought, "Oh my goodness, I am going to throw up on my manager." Luckily, I didn't and the feeling passed.
I really hope that the company decides to do something like this again and that they let me organize it. It really sounded like everyone had a great time and we definitely got the opportunity to get up and get some exercise!
Results from coolrunning.com
Sunday, June 03, 2007
I've Been MIA, but Now I'm Back in Action
Post-marathon depression. Those three words describe my past month since the Boston Marathon. It wasn't easy and it still isn't. I didn't want to run. Nothing felt as good as that day and I didn't know how to get that feeling back. That love for running, that love for training.
I ran Boston's Run to Remember on May 27th. My boss was there to join me in the race. We had a little duel going. I left him a note that morning on his race packet letting him know I'd be winning our race. Little did I know what was to come. I had so very little training in - it's not an excuse, just the truth and my own fault - and it was a very hot morning. I ended up finishing in 1:51:15 and averaging an 8:30 min/mi pace. This was 8 seconds off my previous half marathon pace. My boss however, came in 10 minutes before me and was nice enough to meet my exhausted self at the finish and walk me to the water area.
I was hoping for a PR that day, but it didn't happen. In hindsight, it shouldn't have happened and it was far reaching for me to expect it. I had no training in for it except for some casual whenever I felt like it general aerobic runs and a few track workouts. I was not ready for that race and my legs told me so. They were incredibly sore afterward and even into the next day. I was upset with my performance and doubted why I was even running.
Tuesday morning before work, my boss gave me a short therapy session. We went over the race - both mine and his - and talked about the ups and downs. He helped me rationalize what had been happening to me the past month and explained that it really wasn't that uncommon. After out talk, I felt much better.
Tuesday night I headed out for a training run on the Vision 5K course. I had been organizing a team from my company (Team Take C.H.A.R.G.E.) for the Vision 5K on June 2nd. We had 5 walkers and 15 runners signed up. All my coworkers new that I had run Boston and I did not want to dissapoint any of them in this race.
The training run went well because I took it very easy and ran with the Director of my department. He was ready to stop at about mile 1.8, but I assured him we didn't have much left and told him to keep going. I can be a real slave driver. I had a great time on this run. Seeing him complete the 3.1 miles running the whole way really inspired me and reminded me just how good running can feel.
The Vision 5K was just a few days away and was about to become the turning point of my post-marathon depression. You'll have to read more about this in my next blog post.
I ran Boston's Run to Remember on May 27th. My boss was there to join me in the race. We had a little duel going. I left him a note that morning on his race packet letting him know I'd be winning our race. Little did I know what was to come. I had so very little training in - it's not an excuse, just the truth and my own fault - and it was a very hot morning. I ended up finishing in 1:51:15 and averaging an 8:30 min/mi pace. This was 8 seconds off my previous half marathon pace. My boss however, came in 10 minutes before me and was nice enough to meet my exhausted self at the finish and walk me to the water area.
I was hoping for a PR that day, but it didn't happen. In hindsight, it shouldn't have happened and it was far reaching for me to expect it. I had no training in for it except for some casual whenever I felt like it general aerobic runs and a few track workouts. I was not ready for that race and my legs told me so. They were incredibly sore afterward and even into the next day. I was upset with my performance and doubted why I was even running.
Tuesday morning before work, my boss gave me a short therapy session. We went over the race - both mine and his - and talked about the ups and downs. He helped me rationalize what had been happening to me the past month and explained that it really wasn't that uncommon. After out talk, I felt much better.
Tuesday night I headed out for a training run on the Vision 5K course. I had been organizing a team from my company (Team Take C.H.A.R.G.E.) for the Vision 5K on June 2nd. We had 5 walkers and 15 runners signed up. All my coworkers new that I had run Boston and I did not want to dissapoint any of them in this race.
The training run went well because I took it very easy and ran with the Director of my department. He was ready to stop at about mile 1.8, but I assured him we didn't have much left and told him to keep going. I can be a real slave driver. I had a great time on this run. Seeing him complete the 3.1 miles running the whole way really inspired me and reminded me just how good running can feel.
The Vision 5K was just a few days away and was about to become the turning point of my post-marathon depression. You'll have to read more about this in my next blog post.
Monday, April 30, 2007
Today's Quote
Only those who risk going too far can possibly find out how far they can go.
-- T.S. Eliot, American-British Poet and Critic
Because I've already ran a marathon, does this mean I need to try an ultra...? : )
-- T.S. Eliot, American-British Poet and Critic
Because I've already ran a marathon, does this mean I need to try an ultra...? : )
Reunion Party
Friday night, Jeff and his wife, Sara, hosted a Team BMC reunion party for all of us who went to the Saturday morning runs. It was great to see everyone again - yeah, I know it had only beem a week, but still.
We all sat around in the kitchen and discussed our battle stories and talked of our future plans while we ate lasagna and dessert. We all had different stories to tell - some good, some bad - but in the end we all crossed the finish line and that's what really matters. No one seems 100% sure on what the future will bring for running. Some are signed up for Chicago 2007, others will wait for Chicago 2008, while the rest of us try to find a fall marathon to BQ. I still haven't decided on one, but it's good to know that when I do, I'll have a group of people to train with.
And I'm finally done being sick! Yes! So tonight I start running again and seriously getting ready for the Run to Remember Half Marathon on May 27th. I think my training schedule has me doing 4 miles tonight, which I'm sure will feel great, considering that since April 16th, I've only run 3.5 miles. Ah! I hate saying that.
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
Popsicle Fun!
So I went to the doctor today and she said I don't have strep throat, but I do have laryngitis because of some kind of viral infection. I have to say this diagnosis was pretty obvious considering that I can only speak in small whispers. (I'm sure Dave is loving this!)
The good news is that I told the doctor popsicles make my throat feel better and she said I can eat as many as I want! Wahoo!! So I went to Stop & Shop and bought a container of Sherbet. I know that's not a popsicle, but it's cold and it will feel good and I already have huge box of popsicles in the freezer.
The bad news is that this puts my half marathon training on hold a bit. My doctor said I need lots of rest so that means no running. I will take her advice until I can't stand it any longer and sneak out for a run anyway. Shh... don't tell Dave!
The good news is that I told the doctor popsicles make my throat feel better and she said I can eat as many as I want! Wahoo!! So I went to Stop & Shop and bought a container of Sherbet. I know that's not a popsicle, but it's cold and it will feel good and I already have huge box of popsicles in the freezer.
The bad news is that this puts my half marathon training on hold a bit. My doctor said I need lots of rest so that means no running. I will take her advice until I can't stand it any longer and sneak out for a run anyway. Shh... don't tell Dave!
Monday, April 23, 2007
I'm Sick
I'm sick. I guess my immune system was down just enough after the marathon to pick up a cold. Last night I was running a temperature of 101, my body ached, I couldn't eat and my throat hurt really bad. I felt ... well ... I felt like I just ran a marathon!
I went to the store to get some medicine and started taking it last night. It's some kind of Tylenol cold daytime/nighttime stuff. I hope it works.
Today I'm down to a temperature of 99.5, but I still have the body aches and sore throat and this morning I decided to throw in some nausea on top of it. Hey, why not?! So I was forced to call in sick to work. I hate doing that. I've had a bad run of luck lately with missing work. When it rains it pours.
Dave called to check on me a little while ago, but I couldn't talk. I literally had no voice. He had me push buttons on the phone when I understood him. Ha! He's a real sweetheart.
Oh to top it all off... it's 80 degrees outside and all I want to do is run!!!
Saturday, April 21, 2007
Thank You...
As in any good book, I need to thank people that made my 2007 Boston Marathon possible...
Mom & Lou. Thank you for supporting this crazy endeavor and for your long trip out here. I really enjoyed the visit and I'm so happy you both could come out!
Amy. Thank you for taking an unpaid day off to watch me run the marathon. I really appreciate it. And thank you for everything else you've done for me over the past 6 months. I could never thank you enough.
Heather. Thanks for being my virtual training partner in the beginning. It was great getting those messages that you had ran and it motivated me to get out there and do the same or more than you. And thanks for joining me on that 10 mile run! It seemed so far...
Michael. Thanks for coming out to Boston to watch me run the marathon. I really appreciated you coming out and I hope you had fun. Massachusetts has a lot of good colleges so keep it in mind!
Dave. Thank you for always pushing me and never letting me give up even if it meant being a jerk. I need that sometimes. You motivated me to go the extra distance and for that I thank you. And I can't forget to thank you for all those Saturday's that I came home after the morning run and talked your ear off for hours on end. Even if you weren't listening - thank you!
Steve. I don't know that I ever would have run a marathon if you hadn't gotten me started with that first 5K last May. I can't believe I went from 5K to marathon in 11 months. Thanks for being my coach for this first marathon experience of many.
Sarah. I am so thankful that we have the same pace! Thank you for running with me all those Saturday mornings. I had so much fun chatting with you and I don't think I would have finished a lot of those runs without your support next to me. I hope we have many more runs and races in front of us!
Steph. Thanks for joining Sarah and I on the long runs! It was a pleasure to run with you and a great motivation to here about how you were running in your mom's memory. She was definitely out there watching you Monday and I'm sure she helped you through all those miles. Maybe that's why you could finish with a fracture in your foot!
The Boys: John, Jeff & Kevin. Thanks for being such a great group of guys to run with on Saturday! I had so much fun meeting you all and I hope that we will all get together in the future!
Tricia & Kathleen. Thank you for decorating my desk! I was so surprised when I got to work on Wednesday! It brought a huge smile to my face!
Boston Medical Center. I'd like to thank BMC because without them I never would have run a marathon. Thank you for accepting my application. Also, thank you for all the wonderful programs you have and all the great things you do for the community. Your motto, "exceptional care, without exception" should be adopted my everyone.
Boston Athletic Association. Thank you to the BAA for allowing charity runners to run in the Boston Marathon. I understand it is a highly debated topic amongst Boston Marathon runners - especially on the Runner's World message boards, but to allow us to run means millions of dollars for Boston charities.
All donors. Thank you to everyone who donated. This was an amazing experience for me and you all made it possible. You helped raise over $200,000 for Boston Medical Center!
My Legs, Brain & Heart. Thanks for getting me across the finish line.
If I didn't mention your name, I apologize and thank you!
Mom & Lou. Thank you for supporting this crazy endeavor and for your long trip out here. I really enjoyed the visit and I'm so happy you both could come out!
Amy. Thank you for taking an unpaid day off to watch me run the marathon. I really appreciate it. And thank you for everything else you've done for me over the past 6 months. I could never thank you enough.
Heather. Thanks for being my virtual training partner in the beginning. It was great getting those messages that you had ran and it motivated me to get out there and do the same or more than you. And thanks for joining me on that 10 mile run! It seemed so far...
Michael. Thanks for coming out to Boston to watch me run the marathon. I really appreciated you coming out and I hope you had fun. Massachusetts has a lot of good colleges so keep it in mind!
Dave. Thank you for always pushing me and never letting me give up even if it meant being a jerk. I need that sometimes. You motivated me to go the extra distance and for that I thank you. And I can't forget to thank you for all those Saturday's that I came home after the morning run and talked your ear off for hours on end. Even if you weren't listening - thank you!
Steve. I don't know that I ever would have run a marathon if you hadn't gotten me started with that first 5K last May. I can't believe I went from 5K to marathon in 11 months. Thanks for being my coach for this first marathon experience of many.
Sarah. I am so thankful that we have the same pace! Thank you for running with me all those Saturday mornings. I had so much fun chatting with you and I don't think I would have finished a lot of those runs without your support next to me. I hope we have many more runs and races in front of us!
Steph. Thanks for joining Sarah and I on the long runs! It was a pleasure to run with you and a great motivation to here about how you were running in your mom's memory. She was definitely out there watching you Monday and I'm sure she helped you through all those miles. Maybe that's why you could finish with a fracture in your foot!
The Boys: John, Jeff & Kevin. Thanks for being such a great group of guys to run with on Saturday! I had so much fun meeting you all and I hope that we will all get together in the future!
Tricia & Kathleen. Thank you for decorating my desk! I was so surprised when I got to work on Wednesday! It brought a huge smile to my face!
Boston Medical Center. I'd like to thank BMC because without them I never would have run a marathon. Thank you for accepting my application. Also, thank you for all the wonderful programs you have and all the great things you do for the community. Your motto, "exceptional care, without exception" should be adopted my everyone.
Boston Athletic Association. Thank you to the BAA for allowing charity runners to run in the Boston Marathon. I understand it is a highly debated topic amongst Boston Marathon runners - especially on the Runner's World message boards, but to allow us to run means millions of dollars for Boston charities.
All donors. Thank you to everyone who donated. This was an amazing experience for me and you all made it possible. You helped raise over $200,000 for Boston Medical Center!
My Legs, Brain & Heart. Thanks for getting me across the finish line.
If I didn't mention your name, I apologize and thank you!
I Finished!
It's been five days since I finished the 2007 Boston Marathon and I still can't believe it! I've looked up my results about a billion times, seen them printed in the Boston Globe and the Boston Herald, but I just still feel like I'm dreaming.
The weather predictions were not good, but by the end of the week most meteorologists were predicting a "break" in the Nor'easter. I think that break came just in time for my second wave start because it sure wasn't there as Team BMC was loading the buses! As we waited for the buses it was pouring rain. We were all dressed in many layers with our waterproof gear on the outside. I managed to stay fairly warm waiting for the bus, but the downside to dressing so warm was that the bus ride became very hot. I had to take off my bottom Under Armour layer on the bus so everyone got a little skin show! Hey, a girl has got to do what a girl has got to do.
We got to Hopkinton with just enough time to pee - thanks to the BAA for having a million plus port-a-johns, there was very little wait - head up to the tent, realize it was way too muddy and find the gym. It was great of Hopkinton to open the gymnasium for us. I honestly don't know how I would have kept my feet dry if they hadn't done that. We all changed quickly into our race shoes and clothes and headed out to drop off bags and get to the start. Because we arrived so late - we were the last people on the bus - we had little time to change and thus ended up not having to wait in the corrals. We basically just walked right up to the start line and started running.
For the first mile or so I just kept thinking, "I can't believe I am running the Boston Marathon!" It almost didn't seem real. Time and miles went by so fast. Before I knew it we were in Framingham running by the train station. The three of us girls (Sarah, Steph and myself) kept getting a little extra push from the crowd, but between the three of us we were able to keep each other paced very well.
I couldn't wait to see my family on Heartbreak Hill, but as it turns out I missed them! I was crushed! It definitely dampened my spirits not seeing them, but Sarah and Steph had lots of support that I fed off of and the crowd was always encouraging.
At the mile 23 water stop, Sarah and I lost Steph. We had no idea what to do because we didn't want to leave her, but as soon as I stopped my legs thought they were done and started cramping so I had to get going so Sarah and I had to push on without her. It was sad to be split up.
We hit the downhill going under the Mass Ave. overpass and my quads were screaming at me. At that point, I just kept saying outloud to myself, "mind over matter." I had read so much that "the wall" is a mental thing before it's physical so I had to push myself past that pain mentally. It worked and as Sarah and I turned onto Hereford I started to get choked up. I realized I couldn't do that because if I did I wouldn't be able to breathe! As we turned onto Boylston all the pain I felt in my legs disappeared! My legs felt fresh and new as if I had just started! Sarah and I sprinted - a.k.a. gave it our all - for the finish line. I could not believe what we were about to accomplish.
We crossed the mat together in 4:11:00. I had met two out of three of my goals. Goal #1: Finish. Goal #2: Finish in 4:15:00. Goal #3: Finish in 4:00:00. I was so happy! We hugged and congratulated one another as we headed off to get our medals, blankets and food.
I met my family at the family meeting area provided by the BAA. As soon as I saw my older sister, Amy, I just lost it and started crying! I don't even know why I was crying. I was not sad. I just had so much emotion and that's how it happened to come out. I hugged each of my family members as they held me and congrulated me. It felt so good to see them and they were all so happy.
Michael, my nephew, had to take off my shoes for me because I couldn't bend over. Dave had to put dry pants on me while I took off my wet shirts and put on a dry shirt and my Boston Marathon Jacket.
My family had to leave after the race so we had dinner and said our goodbyes. I was so happy they could come out for the weekend! There support really helped me get through those 26.2 miles.
Dave took me out for Dairy Freeze ice cream. I had a flurry with chocolate ice cream, cookie dough and heath bar. So good!
I went to bed that night at about 10:00pm. I woke up Tuesday at 7:00am, called my manager to tell him I couldn't walk and went back to sleep until noon.
Tuesday was the worst day for soreness. I couldn't walk. My knees, hips, quads and hamstrings all hurt really bad. I made out with only one blister on my right foot on the toe that the nail fell off of. By Wednesday I was back to work with only sore quads and hamstrings and by Thursday the soreness was virtually gone. I think it was the combination of meds/supplements I was taking: ibuprofen, glucosamine-chondroitin, protein, muscle cream and vitamin C.
I went out for my first run today of 3.5 miles. It felt good to be running again, but I am definitely not back to 100% yet. My inner thing/hip feels like it needs some WD-40. Do they make that for body parts?
I'm thinking of which fall marathon to sign up for, but I've got quite a few in mind. Hopefully I can take the 31 minutes off my time to qualify for the 2008 Boston Marathon.
The weather predictions were not good, but by the end of the week most meteorologists were predicting a "break" in the Nor'easter. I think that break came just in time for my second wave start because it sure wasn't there as Team BMC was loading the buses! As we waited for the buses it was pouring rain. We were all dressed in many layers with our waterproof gear on the outside. I managed to stay fairly warm waiting for the bus, but the downside to dressing so warm was that the bus ride became very hot. I had to take off my bottom Under Armour layer on the bus so everyone got a little skin show! Hey, a girl has got to do what a girl has got to do.
We got to Hopkinton with just enough time to pee - thanks to the BAA for having a million plus port-a-johns, there was very little wait - head up to the tent, realize it was way too muddy and find the gym. It was great of Hopkinton to open the gymnasium for us. I honestly don't know how I would have kept my feet dry if they hadn't done that. We all changed quickly into our race shoes and clothes and headed out to drop off bags and get to the start. Because we arrived so late - we were the last people on the bus - we had little time to change and thus ended up not having to wait in the corrals. We basically just walked right up to the start line and started running.
For the first mile or so I just kept thinking, "I can't believe I am running the Boston Marathon!" It almost didn't seem real. Time and miles went by so fast. Before I knew it we were in Framingham running by the train station. The three of us girls (Sarah, Steph and myself) kept getting a little extra push from the crowd, but between the three of us we were able to keep each other paced very well.
I couldn't wait to see my family on Heartbreak Hill, but as it turns out I missed them! I was crushed! It definitely dampened my spirits not seeing them, but Sarah and Steph had lots of support that I fed off of and the crowd was always encouraging.
At the mile 23 water stop, Sarah and I lost Steph. We had no idea what to do because we didn't want to leave her, but as soon as I stopped my legs thought they were done and started cramping so I had to get going so Sarah and I had to push on without her. It was sad to be split up.
We hit the downhill going under the Mass Ave. overpass and my quads were screaming at me. At that point, I just kept saying outloud to myself, "mind over matter." I had read so much that "the wall" is a mental thing before it's physical so I had to push myself past that pain mentally. It worked and as Sarah and I turned onto Hereford I started to get choked up. I realized I couldn't do that because if I did I wouldn't be able to breathe! As we turned onto Boylston all the pain I felt in my legs disappeared! My legs felt fresh and new as if I had just started! Sarah and I sprinted - a.k.a. gave it our all - for the finish line. I could not believe what we were about to accomplish.
We crossed the mat together in 4:11:00. I had met two out of three of my goals. Goal #1: Finish. Goal #2: Finish in 4:15:00. Goal #3: Finish in 4:00:00. I was so happy! We hugged and congratulated one another as we headed off to get our medals, blankets and food.
I met my family at the family meeting area provided by the BAA. As soon as I saw my older sister, Amy, I just lost it and started crying! I don't even know why I was crying. I was not sad. I just had so much emotion and that's how it happened to come out. I hugged each of my family members as they held me and congrulated me. It felt so good to see them and they were all so happy.
Michael, my nephew, had to take off my shoes for me because I couldn't bend over. Dave had to put dry pants on me while I took off my wet shirts and put on a dry shirt and my Boston Marathon Jacket.
My family had to leave after the race so we had dinner and said our goodbyes. I was so happy they could come out for the weekend! There support really helped me get through those 26.2 miles.
Dave took me out for Dairy Freeze ice cream. I had a flurry with chocolate ice cream, cookie dough and heath bar. So good!
I went to bed that night at about 10:00pm. I woke up Tuesday at 7:00am, called my manager to tell him I couldn't walk and went back to sleep until noon.
Tuesday was the worst day for soreness. I couldn't walk. My knees, hips, quads and hamstrings all hurt really bad. I made out with only one blister on my right foot on the toe that the nail fell off of. By Wednesday I was back to work with only sore quads and hamstrings and by Thursday the soreness was virtually gone. I think it was the combination of meds/supplements I was taking: ibuprofen, glucosamine-chondroitin, protein, muscle cream and vitamin C.
I went out for my first run today of 3.5 miles. It felt good to be running again, but I am definitely not back to 100% yet. My inner thing/hip feels like it needs some WD-40. Do they make that for body parts?
I'm thinking of which fall marathon to sign up for, but I've got quite a few in mind. Hopefully I can take the 31 minutes off my time to qualify for the 2008 Boston Marathon.
Monday, April 16, 2007
It's Here... Race Day!
It's here! Race day!! OH MY GOODNESS!! I never really thought today would come. I dreamt last night that I didn't get my finishers medal. What a dream for the night before!! Ah! I'm a mess this morning. So many nerves... so many thoughts going through my head. I should not be watching the news that's for sure! All they say is bad day for runners... couldn't be a worse day for this event... flood warnings... wind gusts up to 60 mph... AAAAHHH!!!!
All I can say is... the hard work is done, right? Today I'm just going for a little jog. Time for me to go get body-glide'd, vaseline'd and sport waxed up! Here I go...
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
I Need to Freak Out Right Now
OH MY GOODNESS!! THE WEATHER IS GETTING CRAZY!! COMPLETE CRAZINESS & MADNESS AND WHAT IS GOING ON?!
Check out what WBZ TV reported today. Honestly. What... How... I mean... Can't... Ugh!
They won't cancel it. They just won't. I worked way to hard and trained way to long and stayed in on way to many Friday and Saturday nights to not do this! I will run. I will run this thing and I will run it well. I don't care if I get sick from the cold and wind and whatever else. I just don't care. Mother Nature is not going to ruin this for me!
5 days for the weather to completely change...
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
My Letter to Mother Nature
I should really be used to the weather in the Northeast by now. I grew up in Central New York and moved to Boston. The weather is crazy and unpredictable in both places! With that having said, I do have to make a complaint/wish/prayer... whatever you want to call it.
Dear Mother Nature,
I have checked weather.com and accuweather.com approximately 1,000 times in the past two days and I can't help but notice how very different these two forecasts are. Weather.com tells me a 30% chance of rain, east wind at 12 mph, cloudy and 50. Accuweather.com says 52, mainly cloudy and breezy. Just tell me, who am I supposed to believe?
If I may ask for any kind of weather for the rest of the year, I ask that April 16th be 50 and partly cloudy. Is there anything you can do?
Hoping for a little help,
Janette
Saturday, April 07, 2007
Why do you run Boston?
WBZ TV has put a great blog on their site with some motivational stories in it. Check it out!
Last Long Run
Today was my last long run before the marathon. The training plan was to go to Boston & run 8 miles on an out and back from Fitcorp. Many people on the team weren't going in because it was only 8 miles and no one really wanted to wake up early to do just 8 miles. Sarah and I were still planning to head in. That is until last night when I decided it would be a good idea to stay up until 2:30am. I watched The Prestige with Dave and then I just couldn't fall asleep. So at 6:30am today I sent Sarah a text letter her know I wasn't going to Boston today. She didn't seem to mind - hopefully she got some extra sleep too!
So today I went out solo after the weather warmed up a bit. It was around 45 and very sunny, but with a cold breeze that came up every so often. I probably could have worn shorts, but I went for pants and a light long sleeve shirt. The run was pretty good all in all. It was weird to do a long run without someone to chat with, but it was nice because it gave me a chance to think about the marathon, my form and just mentally prepare a little bit. I am going to give this a shot on each of my upcoming runs.
The fun part of today's run was that I passed this couple and then ended up with them following me for the next 3 or so miles. All I could think about was fending them off! I swear I kept telling myself it was a training run not a race, but I just couldn't help it. I ended up doing 9.63 miles according to the Garmin.
So that's it. Now it's time to just mentally prepare. All the physical work is done. The next 9 days are going to be all about mental preparation, cleaning up my place for my family, working out last minute plans for marathon weekend and last, but certainly not least relaxing!
Just 9 days left! And 6 days until my family gets here! Yay!
Weather Forecast (Boston) As Of Today
weather.com: Partly Cloudy, High 49, Low 40
accuweather.com: Windy & Rainy w/Snow in PM, High 45, Low 37
So today I went out solo after the weather warmed up a bit. It was around 45 and very sunny, but with a cold breeze that came up every so often. I probably could have worn shorts, but I went for pants and a light long sleeve shirt. The run was pretty good all in all. It was weird to do a long run without someone to chat with, but it was nice because it gave me a chance to think about the marathon, my form and just mentally prepare a little bit. I am going to give this a shot on each of my upcoming runs.
The fun part of today's run was that I passed this couple and then ended up with them following me for the next 3 or so miles. All I could think about was fending them off! I swear I kept telling myself it was a training run not a race, but I just couldn't help it. I ended up doing 9.63 miles according to the Garmin.
So that's it. Now it's time to just mentally prepare. All the physical work is done. The next 9 days are going to be all about mental preparation, cleaning up my place for my family, working out last minute plans for marathon weekend and last, but certainly not least relaxing!
Just 9 days left! And 6 days until my family gets here! Yay!
Weather Forecast (Boston) As Of Today
weather.com: Partly Cloudy, High 49, Low 40
accuweather.com: Windy & Rainy w/Snow in PM, High 45, Low 37
Sunday, April 01, 2007
Beginning of the Taper
It's that time of the training season. It's time to taper. Over the next two weeks mileage will significantly decrease. I've been told this will drive me into a time of craziness and irritability. It should be fun.
Saturday morning we took off for 12 miles. Just 12 miles. I must say, coming off 20 miles, 12 just seemed boring. It was a beautiful morning though. For the first time the birds were chirping and the sun was shining when I woke up. For some reason I sprung out of bed excited to run. On the way in though, I couldn't help thinking. This is just 12 miles. Do I really need to run this early in the morning? Yes, I do. Becuase I love training and I love running with my teammates.
You could tell Team BMC was quite relaxed this morning. Everyone was talking about how they really could have just rather stayed in bed this morning. Kevin even admitted to "going out for one drink" on Friday night and having that "one drink" turn into a few more than that. Around mile 5 he said, "I think I just smell like booze!" So I kidded with him telling him that that's all I could smell. Honestly, there was no smell, but he's such a good guy to joke with that I couldn't resist!
Sarah, Stephanie and I stayed pretty spread out with Stephanie setting the pace for us. She seemed to have the extra kick in her step that Sarah and I needed to follow. We were definitely quieter than our 20 mile run, but I think we were all still half asleep.
This run just felt really weird. I can't really describe it. It seemed almost unncessary, but long, but boring, but awakening. I know this doesn't make any sense. I can't imagine how I'll explain next week's 8 mile "long run." Some people said that won't be going to Fitcorp for it, but I really like waking up on Saturday's and going in to meet the team. Honestly, I'm really going to miss it and it makes me sad to know we just have two runs left together: 8 miles on Saturday and 26.2 miles on Marathon Monday.
Just 15 days to go... (and Sarah informed me that accuweather.com has a 15 day forecast so at least I'll have something to keep me busy during the taper.)
Saturday morning we took off for 12 miles. Just 12 miles. I must say, coming off 20 miles, 12 just seemed boring. It was a beautiful morning though. For the first time the birds were chirping and the sun was shining when I woke up. For some reason I sprung out of bed excited to run. On the way in though, I couldn't help thinking. This is just 12 miles. Do I really need to run this early in the morning? Yes, I do. Becuase I love training and I love running with my teammates.
You could tell Team BMC was quite relaxed this morning. Everyone was talking about how they really could have just rather stayed in bed this morning. Kevin even admitted to "going out for one drink" on Friday night and having that "one drink" turn into a few more than that. Around mile 5 he said, "I think I just smell like booze!" So I kidded with him telling him that that's all I could smell. Honestly, there was no smell, but he's such a good guy to joke with that I couldn't resist!
Sarah, Stephanie and I stayed pretty spread out with Stephanie setting the pace for us. She seemed to have the extra kick in her step that Sarah and I needed to follow. We were definitely quieter than our 20 mile run, but I think we were all still half asleep.
This run just felt really weird. I can't really describe it. It seemed almost unncessary, but long, but boring, but awakening. I know this doesn't make any sense. I can't imagine how I'll explain next week's 8 mile "long run." Some people said that won't be going to Fitcorp for it, but I really like waking up on Saturday's and going in to meet the team. Honestly, I'm really going to miss it and it makes me sad to know we just have two runs left together: 8 miles on Saturday and 26.2 miles on Marathon Monday.
Just 15 days to go... (and Sarah informed me that accuweather.com has a 15 day forecast so at least I'll have something to keep me busy during the taper.)
Friday, March 30, 2007
Latest News from the Training Front
Entrants Update. There are 23,737 runners registered for the 111th Boston marathon. Unfortunately, none of those entries are for Dick & Rick Hoyt of Team Hoyt. Rick had to have surgery on his hip and will not be recovered in time for the marathon (Boston Herald Article 3.28.07). They are such an inspiration. It will be sad to not be able to pass (or be passed by) them. I hope Rick gets well soon! You can see a great video of them on Sarah's blog.
My Feet. I bought new shoes and they fit great! I hadn't had any problems and all was well with my feet. Until the other day... . First, I took off my right sock - the foot with the already missing toe nail. I had a big blister on that same toe. How is that possible? Oh well... just a blister. I can barely feel pain in that toe anyway. Next I took off the left sock. My middle toe nail looked a funny pale yellowish color - not good. I thought maybe I had just left my polish on too long and maybe it was stained. Unfortunately, this was not the case. I looked a little closer at the nail and gave it a little wiggle. That's when I realized; my toe nail is ready to fall off. Goodbye toe nail number two. It's been fun. I promise my feet they'll be getting pedicured after this is all over. Until then, I ask that my toe nails please try to stay attached.
My Injuries. I'm still having a lot of hip pain on my shorter runs. This is really annoying because I get discouraged early and don't think I can finish. The massage guy told me to ice and foam roller it. I hope it works itself out with these methods. If it's not better by Monday, I'll be calling the massage guy back to see what we should do next.
12 miles tomorrow and only 16 days left! 6 more days until I can see the 10 day forecast on weather.com!
My Feet. I bought new shoes and they fit great! I hadn't had any problems and all was well with my feet. Until the other day... . First, I took off my right sock - the foot with the already missing toe nail. I had a big blister on that same toe. How is that possible? Oh well... just a blister. I can barely feel pain in that toe anyway. Next I took off the left sock. My middle toe nail looked a funny pale yellowish color - not good. I thought maybe I had just left my polish on too long and maybe it was stained. Unfortunately, this was not the case. I looked a little closer at the nail and gave it a little wiggle. That's when I realized; my toe nail is ready to fall off. Goodbye toe nail number two. It's been fun. I promise my feet they'll be getting pedicured after this is all over. Until then, I ask that my toe nails please try to stay attached.
My Injuries. I'm still having a lot of hip pain on my shorter runs. This is really annoying because I get discouraged early and don't think I can finish. The massage guy told me to ice and foam roller it. I hope it works itself out with these methods. If it's not better by Monday, I'll be calling the massage guy back to see what we should do next.
12 miles tomorrow and only 16 days left! 6 more days until I can see the 10 day forecast on weather.com!
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