My last post, the recap of my first half marathon, was also my 100th post. Wow! I can't believe I let that slip without acknowledging it. Seems like something I should of celebrated. Oh wait, in a way I did celebrate. I just ran a half marathon and by some crazy coincidence, the recap of it was my 100th post! Cool, right?
Ok, anyway...
Today, I met with a podiatrist. Right off the bat, I liked the doctor. Super nice and he has been a running since he was 15 years old and is now 51. Nice!
First we talked, then he watched me walk. We talked about my pronation issue with my right foot and he suggested an orthotic. I kind of expected that.
I told him how I felt like maybe I was doing something wrong when I was running and first he told me not to beat myself up and then he said he would film me running and see what was going on. This is called a gait analysis. Cool, let's do it!
I hopped on the treadmill and walked for a little then ran a little and then I was done. This is what we discovered.
From the back view, my hips fell too much. He said they should move slightly and that was not happening with me. Watching the video it made me laugh. It looked like I was doing some crazy swagger. What must people think who run behind me. LOL
From the side view, he said I went up too high, so when I am coming down, my leg is extending too far forward. Picture slamming on your brake. This is causing me to land wrong and in his opinion, causing a lot of my hip pain. Hope I explained that right and you understand.
So what does all this mean? Well, I have to change the way I run. I am not gonna lie, this has me a little freaked out. I am sure this will not be easy and honestly, I am not sure where to start. The doc had some suggestions and I will see him again when my orthotics are done. He is going to spend a little more time reviewing the video and may have a few more things to share with me.
So my friends, I know some of you have had this done and have changed how you run. How did you do it and where did you start? How long did it take you to get to where you need to be?
Do you wear an orthotic? Did it help you?
Tomorrow will be the first time I run since Sunday. My knee is still hurting a bit but I have stretches that seem to be helping.
Wish me luck!
Run Strong, Think Big!
Thursday, September 27, 2012
Monday, September 24, 2012
Ocean's Run Half Marathon Recap
I am a half marathoner!!!
It feels so good to say that. Months of training, time away from my family, early mornings and tears have all paid off.
I went to bed about an hour earlier than my normal time on Saturday and slept really well. Surprised? Yeah, me too.
I ate breakfast and was out the door right on time. Parking and the shuttle to the start was easy and I was feeling pretty good.
I stretched, drank a gatorade and used the bathroom 100 times. No, not really, but it was a lot. My nerves kicked in.
This was a small local race, only 160 runners. While in line at the start, my friend Tara, who was running the 5k, found me and gave me a big hug and said good luck. It was so nice to see someone I knew. I texted Mr. RWM to tell him I was about to go. He texted back, Run Strong, Think Big and it brought tears to my eyes. Geez, I am crying already, great!
We took off and the crowd broke up right away. There were a few people running at my pace and I stayed with them for a while. Right off the bat, mile one, we started to hit hills. I have been lax on my hill training and I didn't expect this but it was good for me.
At the end of mile two, I passed a man who appeared to be a little younger than me. Wow, that never happened before. He was wearing bright orange, parachute/carpenter pants. No, really. They were very loose and baggy with big side pockets. Hmmm....
In mile three, my left knee started to hurt. Seriously, are you kidding me! I kept on trucking and after about a mile I started to feel a little better.
This race was very well marked and the volunteers were great! Every mile had a water station and starting at mile six, they had water, Heed, gels, pretzels, oranges and animal crackers. Also, the great people of NBX, rode their bikes around us to make sure we were ok and they all had extra water and gels with them.
Mile four, Mr. Orange Pants passed me but at mile five he stopped to use the porta potty. So technically, I passed him again, right? HeeHee
This course was beautiful but crowd support was minimal. We had a long stretch that was mostly farm land and I was alone for a lot of it. I really felt great, except for my left knee.
The next several miles were uneventful. I was running, my knee hurt and the only interaction with people were at the water stops. My tunes were good though, thank you Shinedown.
In mile nine, I couldn't remember what mile I was in and had to ask the volunteer. I also thought I would walk a minute and realized my knee hurt more to walk than run. Great!
When I saw the sign for mile ten, I felt relived because I was getting so close and then I felt like, "shoot, I still have 3 miles to go!" Oh, and .1! No worries, I got this!
Mile 11, a girl ran up next to me and we chatted for a few minutes. Nothing earth shattering, but it was nice to talk a little. About a minute later, Mr. Orange Pants had caught up to me. That's right the last time I saw him was 6 miles ago. We talked for a couple minutes and he told me his knees were hurting and that he would never wear those pants again. Honestly, I had to control my laughter. But he was cool and again, I was happy to have someone to chat with, even if it was only a minute.
He passed me and I used his pants as a guide as to how far I had to go.
When I approached the mile twelve marker, I started to get teary and could barely say thank you to the women who handed me water. I was so close and I was going to make it. This was also the longest and hottest mile. The sun was beating down but there was a women on a bike that really kept me going. She was so positive and she kept telling me I was doing great. She was like my own personal cheerleader.
The last .l, I heard a cowbell and then saw it was attached to my son. Yes, my kids were there and I was thrilled. I rounded the corner and saw the finish. My kids ran along the cones and I ran through the finish!
A cute little girl handed me my medal and a man gave me some water. My friend Tara was the first to greet me and it was so nice that she had stayed to see me finish. Thank you Tara!
Mr. RWM was there and it was then, that I really lost it. I hugged him and cried and was just so happy! He said I looked better than he thought I would and I laughed. He was right though. Remember that 12.93 mile run? The one where I didn't fuel properly, yeah well, what a difference food and drink makes. I felt awesome!
We hung out for a while, I stretched, had some snacks and clam chowder and then we went out for a bite to eat. I had hit a wall as I was finishing my lunch and couldn't get home fast enough.
I spent most of the day in the lay-z-boy with my feet up and some ice. My knee is not good and it hurt to walk, hoping it is better tomorrow.
When I turned on my laptop, I got emotional again as I read every comment and message that you all had left for me. Your support cannot be measured and I thank each and every one of you for being there for me.
Based on my training runs, I expected to finish with a time of 2:40/2:45. I was pleasantly surprised that my official time was 2:37:34. I love the feeling of being in a race and running with other people. Even though this was a small race and most of it, I spent alone, I still felt the energy from the people around me. That excitement carried me through and I enjoyed every minute.
All in all, this was a beautiful race and very well run. I had fun and would do it again. Oh, yeah, I am doing it again, October 14th. I am so ready for Nike and can't wait for what is sure to be one of the most amazing weekends of my life.
I hope you all had a great weekend. I would love to hear about your training runs and races. Feel free to comment here or on my FB page.
Run Strong, Think Big my friends!
It feels so good to say that. Months of training, time away from my family, early mornings and tears have all paid off.
I went to bed about an hour earlier than my normal time on Saturday and slept really well. Surprised? Yeah, me too.
I ate breakfast and was out the door right on time. Parking and the shuttle to the start was easy and I was feeling pretty good.
I stretched, drank a gatorade and used the bathroom 100 times. No, not really, but it was a lot. My nerves kicked in.
This was a small local race, only 160 runners. While in line at the start, my friend Tara, who was running the 5k, found me and gave me a big hug and said good luck. It was so nice to see someone I knew. I texted Mr. RWM to tell him I was about to go. He texted back, Run Strong, Think Big and it brought tears to my eyes. Geez, I am crying already, great!
We took off and the crowd broke up right away. There were a few people running at my pace and I stayed with them for a while. Right off the bat, mile one, we started to hit hills. I have been lax on my hill training and I didn't expect this but it was good for me.
At the end of mile two, I passed a man who appeared to be a little younger than me. Wow, that never happened before. He was wearing bright orange, parachute/carpenter pants. No, really. They were very loose and baggy with big side pockets. Hmmm....
In mile three, my left knee started to hurt. Seriously, are you kidding me! I kept on trucking and after about a mile I started to feel a little better.
This race was very well marked and the volunteers were great! Every mile had a water station and starting at mile six, they had water, Heed, gels, pretzels, oranges and animal crackers. Also, the great people of NBX, rode their bikes around us to make sure we were ok and they all had extra water and gels with them.
Mile four, Mr. Orange Pants passed me but at mile five he stopped to use the porta potty. So technically, I passed him again, right? HeeHee
This course was beautiful but crowd support was minimal. We had a long stretch that was mostly farm land and I was alone for a lot of it. I really felt great, except for my left knee.
The next several miles were uneventful. I was running, my knee hurt and the only interaction with people were at the water stops. My tunes were good though, thank you Shinedown.
In mile nine, I couldn't remember what mile I was in and had to ask the volunteer. I also thought I would walk a minute and realized my knee hurt more to walk than run. Great!
When I saw the sign for mile ten, I felt relived because I was getting so close and then I felt like, "shoot, I still have 3 miles to go!" Oh, and .1! No worries, I got this!
Mile 11, a girl ran up next to me and we chatted for a few minutes. Nothing earth shattering, but it was nice to talk a little. About a minute later, Mr. Orange Pants had caught up to me. That's right the last time I saw him was 6 miles ago. We talked for a couple minutes and he told me his knees were hurting and that he would never wear those pants again. Honestly, I had to control my laughter. But he was cool and again, I was happy to have someone to chat with, even if it was only a minute.
He passed me and I used his pants as a guide as to how far I had to go.
When I approached the mile twelve marker, I started to get teary and could barely say thank you to the women who handed me water. I was so close and I was going to make it. This was also the longest and hottest mile. The sun was beating down but there was a women on a bike that really kept me going. She was so positive and she kept telling me I was doing great. She was like my own personal cheerleader.
The last .l, I heard a cowbell and then saw it was attached to my son. Yes, my kids were there and I was thrilled. I rounded the corner and saw the finish. My kids ran along the cones and I ran through the finish!
A cute little girl handed me my medal and a man gave me some water. My friend Tara was the first to greet me and it was so nice that she had stayed to see me finish. Thank you Tara!
Mr. RWM was there and it was then, that I really lost it. I hugged him and cried and was just so happy! He said I looked better than he thought I would and I laughed. He was right though. Remember that 12.93 mile run? The one where I didn't fuel properly, yeah well, what a difference food and drink makes. I felt awesome!
We hung out for a while, I stretched, had some snacks and clam chowder and then we went out for a bite to eat. I had hit a wall as I was finishing my lunch and couldn't get home fast enough.
I spent most of the day in the lay-z-boy with my feet up and some ice. My knee is not good and it hurt to walk, hoping it is better tomorrow.
When I turned on my laptop, I got emotional again as I read every comment and message that you all had left for me. Your support cannot be measured and I thank each and every one of you for being there for me.
Based on my training runs, I expected to finish with a time of 2:40/2:45. I was pleasantly surprised that my official time was 2:37:34. I love the feeling of being in a race and running with other people. Even though this was a small race and most of it, I spent alone, I still felt the energy from the people around me. That excitement carried me through and I enjoyed every minute.
 |
| Me running through the finish line. |
 |
| My babies met me at the finish and had a 13.1 magnet for me and my Xterra. |
 |
| A little thumbs up, still feeling good! |
 |
| Had to put the magnet on my car before I drove away! You would of too, right? LOL |
 |
| The bling! |
All in all, this was a beautiful race and very well run. I had fun and would do it again. Oh, yeah, I am doing it again, October 14th. I am so ready for Nike and can't wait for what is sure to be one of the most amazing weekends of my life.
I hope you all had a great weekend. I would love to hear about your training runs and races. Feel free to comment here or on my FB page.
Run Strong, Think Big my friends!
Monday, September 17, 2012
My 10 Questions
I was tagged by Lisa Runs For Cupcakes to do the Another Mother Runner 10 Question Game.
So here goes!
Best Run Ever: Well, I went back and forth on this one, but I have to say it was my graduation run form the C25K program. Not only was it such an accomplishment for me because at times I didn't think it would happen, but it fell on my girls weekend in Nantucket. It was such a beautiful weekend and I was there with some of the best friends I have who all ran with me. It was such a fun run that I was able to share with the people who encouraged me to run in the first place.
Three words to describe my running: peaceful, happy, challenging
My go to run outfit: I really don't have a specific outfit that I go to. I love so many different things. I love my Asics, my run like a mother tank and my Women Run tech shirts.
Quirky habit while I am running: Yeah, right like am going to tell you that. LOL I actually play air drums when I am really feeling my groove and a rocking song comes on.
Morning, midday or evening runner? I prefer midday, but do most of them in the morning because of time.
I won''t run outside when: I won't run when it is icy or in the dark.
Worst injury and how I got over it: I have degenerative disc disease and for a while I couldn't even stand up straight let alone run. PT and tons of core work is what got me back on track. I still keep up with the core work.
I felt most like a badass mother runner when? For me, it was the first time I ran 10 miles. I felt like superman when I was done and when I think about it, I still smile.
My next race is: The Ocean's Run Half Marathon, this coming Sunday, September 23. It will be my first half marathon and I am nervous and excited. I can't wait to put that sticker on my car!
Potential running goals for 2013? Well, I would really love to do a Rock and Roll half, probably Philly or Providence or both. Beyond that, not sure.
And I will tag...
Diary of an Aspiring Loser
Run for the Boys
No Limits Running
If you were already tagged sorry. And if I didn't tag you, it doesn't mean, I don't want to know your answers. Feel free to answer them here or give me the link to your post. I would love to read all of your answers.
Run Strong, Think Big!
So here goes!
Best Run Ever: Well, I went back and forth on this one, but I have to say it was my graduation run form the C25K program. Not only was it such an accomplishment for me because at times I didn't think it would happen, but it fell on my girls weekend in Nantucket. It was such a beautiful weekend and I was there with some of the best friends I have who all ran with me. It was such a fun run that I was able to share with the people who encouraged me to run in the first place.
Three words to describe my running: peaceful, happy, challenging
My go to run outfit: I really don't have a specific outfit that I go to. I love so many different things. I love my Asics, my run like a mother tank and my Women Run tech shirts.
Quirky habit while I am running: Yeah, right like am going to tell you that. LOL I actually play air drums when I am really feeling my groove and a rocking song comes on.
Morning, midday or evening runner? I prefer midday, but do most of them in the morning because of time.
I won''t run outside when: I won't run when it is icy or in the dark.
Worst injury and how I got over it: I have degenerative disc disease and for a while I couldn't even stand up straight let alone run. PT and tons of core work is what got me back on track. I still keep up with the core work.
I felt most like a badass mother runner when? For me, it was the first time I ran 10 miles. I felt like superman when I was done and when I think about it, I still smile.
My next race is: The Ocean's Run Half Marathon, this coming Sunday, September 23. It will be my first half marathon and I am nervous and excited. I can't wait to put that sticker on my car!
Potential running goals for 2013? Well, I would really love to do a Rock and Roll half, probably Philly or Providence or both. Beyond that, not sure.
And I will tag...
Diary of an Aspiring Loser
Run for the Boys
No Limits Running
If you were already tagged sorry. And if I didn't tag you, it doesn't mean, I don't want to know your answers. Feel free to answer them here or give me the link to your post. I would love to read all of your answers.
Run Strong, Think Big!
Diagnosis
Ok so here it is, I have a bunch of stuff going on.
My right leg is shorter than my left, this is causing me to go out of alignment and also contributing to the hip pain.
I have bursitis and planter fasciitis. And to finish it out, sacroiliac joint pain. Wow, can you say that three times fast.
What does this all mean? Well, for starters, on Thursday I will see a chiropractor for the first time. The following week, I will see a podiatrist for orthotics and, of course, one month of PT.
Can I run? Yes. Will I? You betcha! On Sunday, the Ocean's Run Half Marathon will be taking place and although I am not registered yet, I am planning on running it.
This has been on my mind for some time, but I have been putting if off until I knew what was causing the pain. My plan was, no matter what, I will be at Nike and I didn't want to push myself and make things worse to the point that I would not be able it run in October.
Now that I know all will be good, I wanted to experience 13.1 before I got to a strange city with 40,000 plus other runners. Do you think that is crazy? Everyone I asked so far, have all said go for it. I mean I am up to 12 miles plus .93 so why not, right?
I have heard all good things about the race and as of right now, it should be a beautiful day to run. The other motivating factor, is that Mr. RWM and the kids will be able to see me cross the finish of my first half marathon. I have been disappointed thinking that they would miss me doing something that is so important to me, and now my best cheering squad can be with me.
So now, I need to know, what do you bring with you for your half marathons? I know I will need a GU or two, so I will bring that, but do you rely on water stops on bring your own too?
If you ran 13 miles on Saturday and plan to do a half the next Sunday, how many miles would you run this week?
(haha, if a train leaves Boston going 80 miles an hour...)
I know I should take it easy, but I am guessing a couple 3-4 mile runs, maybe today, Wednesday and Thursday? Your thoughts?
Now that it is in black and white and more people know besides just Mr. RWM and a few friends, I am getting nervous. How do you handle pre race nerves?
One last question. Have you been to chiropractor? Have they helped you? A few of you have told me you love your chiropractor but I am little leery. Does it hurt, feel good or what?
And for my Rhode Island friends, do you want to run a half marathon on Sunday? No really, I am serious, who's with me?! I know a few of you are doing the 5k so I will see you there.
Ok, that about covers it. Can't wait to hear form you. Thanks everyone!
Run Strong, Think Big!
Sunday, September 16, 2012
When 12 MIles Equals 13
On Friday, I had planned to run 12 miles, my longest run yet. Life got in the way so I planned to do it Saturday.
Run Strong, Think Big!
Saturday morning, we had to get out early for soccer pictures and then two games. It was a cool and cloudy day and I knew it was going to be a nice day to run. I was looking forward to it.
By the time we got home, the sun was out and it was 70. Not what I was expecting. I couldn't do it later in the evening because we had a sitter and dinner plans and I wanted Sunday to be our day to just be together without any worries.
So, at 1pm I set out for my run.
I ran the neighborhood before I set up the dreaded hill and was hot already. It seems to always take a few miles to find my groove and Saturday, it was no different. Mile three was not great, I was hot and I had those negative voices in my head telling me to just go home and do it in the morning. Somehow, by the end of mile three, I felt good and mile four was my fastest.
Crazy how that happens right? One minute it sucks the next, you are having the best run of your life.
In mile 5, my water bottle was almost empty and I knew I needed to fill up. I was a mile and a half from my house and about 2 miles to the next store where I could of bought something. Then I realized, I was passing a friends house so I just stopped there hoping they were home. They were, I filled up and thanked them and went on my way. So nice to live in a small town.
I changed my route up a little because of the extra miles. And it was nice. It was hot but it really was a beautiful day and I was enjoying it.
When I hit mile eight, I thought I should turn around but after second thought, I thought I would be short the 12 miles and still have to run when I got to my door. I decided to go to nine and then turn, thinking it would be exact. Things went down hill from there.
I did not fuel properly and I only drank water. It wasn't clear to me at the time, but I needed something like a gatorade or NUUN. I also had a GU but didn't take it. Don't ask me why, I have no idea.
In mile eleven, the back of my legs tightened up and I found it hard to take a step. I stopped and stretched and and ran until I hit twelve. That was, unfortunately, a mile from my house. I calculated wrong, my legs hurt and I just wanted to stop.
After a moment of deep breathing and more stretching, I decided I could make it. I started to run again. Once I got to the hill and started down to my house, my legs were screaming. I called Mr. RWM and told him to get an ice bath ready.
For some reason, as I was running down the hill, I decided to stop my Pandora radio and Endomondo, I guess my thought was I was going straight into the tub and didn't want to have to stop and turn everything off and taking off my shoes was going to be challenging enough. When I hit stop it said, 12.93 miles. Shoot, I still had a little to go and I am sure it would of read 13 exactly.
When I walked into my house, my kids were cheering for me which was really cool. They both thought it was funny that daddy was putting ice in the tub for mommy. When they saw me get in with my clothes on, they really laughed. I was also given a mermaid barbie to play with. Thanks kids!
I sat in the tub and had a hard time putting my legs straight. It was Mr. RWM who started to drill me on what I ate and drank and when I told him I ate nothing and only drank water, he ran down the stairs for Gatorade and pretzels. I promised him and I promise you, I will never do that again. Lesson learned the hard way. I know better too, which makes it even worse.
My hip did well while I was running which I was happy about. I am still going to have it checked out and if it is nothing or an easy fix, there is a race I will do Sunday. I will tell you more about that after I see the doctor.
There is not doubt in my mind that I will successfully complete 13.1 miles and do it under 3 hours. Nike is less than a month away and every day, I get more excited.
Tell me what you drink on your long runs and how do you carry it? What mistakes have you made along the way of your running journey?
There is not doubt in my mind that I will successfully complete 13.1 miles and do it under 3 hours. Nike is less than a month away and every day, I get more excited.
Tell me what you drink on your long runs and how do you carry it? What mistakes have you made along the way of your running journey?
Run Strong, Think Big!
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Stressed
I woke up today feeling stressed out about my hip. I have played it off as nothing, but everyday I am in pain.
Last night I ran 3 miles on the treadmill at the gym, when I was done, I limped to the child care room to get the kids. This is not good.
I called the doc and got an appointment on Monday. I am hoping it is an easy fix. I am planning on getting a run in tomorrow and my long run this weekend. I know I will have to walk a little, but I want to get the miles in. I will stretch and I will listen to what my body is telling me and if I have to, I will call Mr. RWM to come get me. I am hoping I won't have to.
This has me so bummed. I have worked so hard since April, and Nike is so very close.
I am not sure why I always seem to have an issue. I am using a great training plan with a very knowledgeable coach. I have not increased my miles to fast and I don't think I am over training. I just don't get it and I am pissed.
I will not let this stop me and I will finish my half marathon even if I have to crawl across the finish.
It is crazy to know that I am healthier than I have ever been but have been to the doctor more this year, than I have in my entire life. I am in smaller clothes and I feel great. The results from running have been amazing and not just on the outside. I am happy. I am a better mother and wife and this is all because I run.
I know so many of us have dealt with injuries and my hip issue is not the end of the world. It is just so frustrating to think I am doing something so good for me, yet at 40 years old, I feel like I am falling apart. What am I doing wrong?
This post was supposed to tell you about my next race, but I am going to hold off and see what the doc says. I am hoping for a happier post on Monday. Please keep your fingers crossed for me.
BTW, so many of you wrote post about 9/11. I read them all and was truly touched by your stories. I rarely talk about that day but just like you, my life was changed and I will never forget.
So tell me something good. How is your training going? What are you excited for? Tell me a funny running story, please!
Run Strong, Think Big!
Last night I ran 3 miles on the treadmill at the gym, when I was done, I limped to the child care room to get the kids. This is not good.
I called the doc and got an appointment on Monday. I am hoping it is an easy fix. I am planning on getting a run in tomorrow and my long run this weekend. I know I will have to walk a little, but I want to get the miles in. I will stretch and I will listen to what my body is telling me and if I have to, I will call Mr. RWM to come get me. I am hoping I won't have to.
This has me so bummed. I have worked so hard since April, and Nike is so very close.
I am not sure why I always seem to have an issue. I am using a great training plan with a very knowledgeable coach. I have not increased my miles to fast and I don't think I am over training. I just don't get it and I am pissed.
I will not let this stop me and I will finish my half marathon even if I have to crawl across the finish.
It is crazy to know that I am healthier than I have ever been but have been to the doctor more this year, than I have in my entire life. I am in smaller clothes and I feel great. The results from running have been amazing and not just on the outside. I am happy. I am a better mother and wife and this is all because I run.
I know so many of us have dealt with injuries and my hip issue is not the end of the world. It is just so frustrating to think I am doing something so good for me, yet at 40 years old, I feel like I am falling apart. What am I doing wrong?
This post was supposed to tell you about my next race, but I am going to hold off and see what the doc says. I am hoping for a happier post on Monday. Please keep your fingers crossed for me.
BTW, so many of you wrote post about 9/11. I read them all and was truly touched by your stories. I rarely talk about that day but just like you, my life was changed and I will never forget.
So tell me something good. How is your training going? What are you excited for? Tell me a funny running story, please!
Run Strong, Think Big!
Friday, September 7, 2012
Warning, May Cause Tears
Today I ran 11 miles.
Yesterday as I was preparing mentally and hydrating and, of course, checking Facebook, I came across the status of a fellow SPA, Tough Chik, blogger and friend, Jolene.
She talks about preparing for her 16 mile run for today. She then went on to say that she had just learned of 14 year old girl who had been fighting cancer the last several years. Her family had just been told that she would not make it through the next two weeks.
Jolene is a nurse who cares for children with cancer. She did not know this girl or her family, but she dedicated her miles to her. I cried when I read this and decided that my miles would be dedicated to 14 year old Taylor and her family also.
I was up before 6 am, and out the door by 6:20. It was already hot and humid but up the dreaded hill I went. It took the first three miles to find a good groove and it was in mile 4 that I started to think and pray for Taylor and her family.
I got teary almost immediately and in my head, I was yelling at God. I will never understand why parents have to lose their children. We have all heard and probably used the expression, "it's God's plan", but it will never make sense to me.
I calmed myself down and asked God to give me the strength to get through these miles and to give Taylor her family and as much time as possible in the next two weeks.
I ran slow, but I enjoyed the morning and was happy and thankful that I was able to run. Right after mile 6, I had my first GU. It was peanut butter and it was better than I thought it would be.
I was also combining this run today, as part of the Great Cupcake Race. This was a virtual race and it was hosted by Run Find Your Happy Pace and Running In Sanity. This race was to raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. This is, of course a cause that is near an dear to me and I was happy to contribute.
When my GPS read 11 miles, I was so relieved. I walked home, showered and ate breakfast and took a little nap.
When I woke up, I checked Jolene's status to see how her 16 miles went. It was here that I read the sad news that this morning, Taylor had earned her wings.
I was shocked, I don't even know this family, yet I broke down and cried. I know two weeks is not a long time, but it was 24 hours! I was home alone with my youngest and I just grabbed her and gave her the biggest hug I could. There is nothing more special than our children and we need to be thankful for them everyday.
I was sore and sad but I wanted to do something special with my daughter. It was just the two of us and this is her last week before she goes back to preschool. So, I took her for her first pedicure.
She was so excited. She picked out a hot pink and sat like a princess. It was the best part of my day and I will never forget it.
I hope you all have a wonderful weekend. Spend it with those that you love and be sure to tell them you do. Hug them and be patient. Listen to what they have to say and thank God for your time with them.
Run Strong, Think Big!
Yesterday as I was preparing mentally and hydrating and, of course, checking Facebook, I came across the status of a fellow SPA, Tough Chik, blogger and friend, Jolene.
She talks about preparing for her 16 mile run for today. She then went on to say that she had just learned of 14 year old girl who had been fighting cancer the last several years. Her family had just been told that she would not make it through the next two weeks.
Jolene is a nurse who cares for children with cancer. She did not know this girl or her family, but she dedicated her miles to her. I cried when I read this and decided that my miles would be dedicated to 14 year old Taylor and her family also.
I was up before 6 am, and out the door by 6:20. It was already hot and humid but up the dreaded hill I went. It took the first three miles to find a good groove and it was in mile 4 that I started to think and pray for Taylor and her family.
I got teary almost immediately and in my head, I was yelling at God. I will never understand why parents have to lose their children. We have all heard and probably used the expression, "it's God's plan", but it will never make sense to me.
I calmed myself down and asked God to give me the strength to get through these miles and to give Taylor her family and as much time as possible in the next two weeks.
I ran slow, but I enjoyed the morning and was happy and thankful that I was able to run. Right after mile 6, I had my first GU. It was peanut butter and it was better than I thought it would be.
I was also combining this run today, as part of the Great Cupcake Race. This was a virtual race and it was hosted by Run Find Your Happy Pace and Running In Sanity. This race was to raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. This is, of course a cause that is near an dear to me and I was happy to contribute.
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| Smiling after 11 miles, yeah I am nuts! |
 |
| Cute Bondi Band, right! |
When my GPS read 11 miles, I was so relieved. I walked home, showered and ate breakfast and took a little nap.
When I woke up, I checked Jolene's status to see how her 16 miles went. It was here that I read the sad news that this morning, Taylor had earned her wings.
I was shocked, I don't even know this family, yet I broke down and cried. I know two weeks is not a long time, but it was 24 hours! I was home alone with my youngest and I just grabbed her and gave her the biggest hug I could. There is nothing more special than our children and we need to be thankful for them everyday.
I was sore and sad but I wanted to do something special with my daughter. It was just the two of us and this is her last week before she goes back to preschool. So, I took her for her first pedicure.
 |
| Me and my baby! |
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| Pink and Purple |
She was so excited. She picked out a hot pink and sat like a princess. It was the best part of my day and I will never forget it.
I hope you all have a wonderful weekend. Spend it with those that you love and be sure to tell them you do. Hug them and be patient. Listen to what they have to say and thank God for your time with them.
Run Strong, Think Big!
Thursday, September 6, 2012
I Sweat Pink
I am proud to announce that I am a Sweat Pink Ambassador! I am very excited about this.
I only just learned of this company this year, but as soon as I read about the two wonderful ladies who run it, I was hooked.
When I read their mission statement, I felt like they were talking to me. Well, in a way they were.
Their first line, "We believe kicking ass is best done in pretty shoes." Well, yes, of course it is! I will let you read the rest, but SPA's are strong and healthy women who want to motivate others to be fit and happy as well.
This is one of the reasons I started blogging in the first place. I wanted to help motivate others but I wanted to be motivated by all of you. I have to say, you have done a great job supporting me and I hope you feel the same in return.
My running shoes, which I love, are not pretty. But when I added sweat pink laces, well, lets just say, it was the perfect makeover.
The ladies I have "met" so far, have all been so welcoming. I hope to meet some of them in person some day. That would be a cool blogger, SPA kinda meet up.
Thank you ladies for adding me to your fine group. I look forward to many happy memories, while sweating pink!
In other news, I now have a twitter account. I have put this off for a long time and have finally given in. So if you would like to follow me, go here: https://twitter.com/Runwhilemommy I will be happy to follow you back.
I have no idea how it all works, but I am slowly learning. If you have any advice, I would greatly appreciate it.
This week running has been good. Tuesday, I ran five miles and today, 3. I am going to do my long run tomorrow because I am going away for the weekend. I am planning on 11 miles.
These 11, will be part of the Great Cupcake race. This race is sponsored by Run Find My Happy Pace and Running In Sanity. Registration is closed but they have another virtual in October that you may like. Check it out.
I am deciding on a race for September. I am pretty sure I know which one it will be, but I will get back to you on that once I am registered.
I cannot believe Nike is 39 days away! My excitement grows every day. I cannot wait to see Shawna and meet her friends and family. Shawna has her 18 miler coming up this weekend and I know she will have a great run. Go get 'em Shawna!
Run Strong, Think Big!
I only just learned of this company this year, but as soon as I read about the two wonderful ladies who run it, I was hooked.
When I read their mission statement, I felt like they were talking to me. Well, in a way they were.
Their first line, "We believe kicking ass is best done in pretty shoes." Well, yes, of course it is! I will let you read the rest, but SPA's are strong and healthy women who want to motivate others to be fit and happy as well.
This is one of the reasons I started blogging in the first place. I wanted to help motivate others but I wanted to be motivated by all of you. I have to say, you have done a great job supporting me and I hope you feel the same in return.
My running shoes, which I love, are not pretty. But when I added sweat pink laces, well, lets just say, it was the perfect makeover.
 |
| Can you see my pink laces? |
 |
| Here is a better view of what they look like. |
The ladies I have "met" so far, have all been so welcoming. I hope to meet some of them in person some day. That would be a cool blogger, SPA kinda meet up.
Thank you ladies for adding me to your fine group. I look forward to many happy memories, while sweating pink!
In other news, I now have a twitter account. I have put this off for a long time and have finally given in. So if you would like to follow me, go here: https://twitter.com/Runwhilemommy I will be happy to follow you back.
I have no idea how it all works, but I am slowly learning. If you have any advice, I would greatly appreciate it.
This week running has been good. Tuesday, I ran five miles and today, 3. I am going to do my long run tomorrow because I am going away for the weekend. I am planning on 11 miles.
These 11, will be part of the Great Cupcake race. This race is sponsored by Run Find My Happy Pace and Running In Sanity. Registration is closed but they have another virtual in October that you may like. Check it out.
I am deciding on a race for September. I am pretty sure I know which one it will be, but I will get back to you on that once I am registered.
I cannot believe Nike is 39 days away! My excitement grows every day. I cannot wait to see Shawna and meet her friends and family. Shawna has her 18 miler coming up this weekend and I know she will have a great run. Go get 'em Shawna!
Run Strong, Think Big!
Monday, September 3, 2012
Labor Day Virtual 10 Miler
Yesterday I set out to do Mommy, Run Fast's Virtual Labor Day race. I needed to get a long run in, so I decided on 10 miles. With her race you were able to do five or ten or both. Kudos to those of you who did both!
I woke up at 6, hoping to get out by 6:30. At 6:45 I was out the door but I felt like, (TMI coming up), I would need to use the restroom in the near future.
I decided to do the first mile in the neighborhood so that I was close to home. Glad I did that!
When I was about to walk out the door, again, I checked my app, Endomondo, to see how far I went. I had gone .76 miles but it was set for walking. What, who did that? LOL
I stopped it and started it again, and decided to just add 10 to that so I would have an accurate time.
On my long runs, I have been worried about running out of water, so I mapped out a new route that would take me past a few places that I could run into if I needed something. This was a good route and I think I will do it more often for my longer runs.
I have been worried about my hip, but was feeling pretty good. There were a few other runners out there, but mostly people who were on bikes and one walker. It was a beautiful morning and I wish I had taken a pic of the view I had of the Newport Bridge.
I recently purchased a Spibelt and this was my first long run using it. I had put my fuel in it and honestly, I didn't even know I had it on while running. Love it!
In mile six, I was passing a D and D and I made a pit stop. Got some H2O and back to running I went. At mile 7, I was beginning to really feel tired. I had a Uber Larabar that I picked up at an expo recently, Banana Foster. Yum so good! It helped a little but my hip and my legs were yelling at me.
Mile 8 was not good. The very top of my street, which I thought was going to be 9.5 miles was only 9. I was disappointed and considered just finishing there because technically, I had hit 10.
I knew though, that when I got back home, I would feel disappointed in myself. I also knew that I could do it. I continued on until I hit 10 miles. The last mile was my slowest to date, 15:08.
This was not my first time running 10 miles, but it was my worst time for that distance, 2:09:59.
When I got home, the smell of coffee was awesome! Thank you Mr. RWM. I iced my hip and wore my compression socks and felt great later when we had to head out to a Labor Day Bar-B-Que at Ethel's home.
All in all, it was a fabulous weekend for the RWM family and I am sorry it is over.
I would like to thank Mommy, Run Fast for hosting this race. I had fun!
Did you participate? How was it? What else did you do this holiday weekend?
Run Strong, Think Big!
I woke up at 6, hoping to get out by 6:30. At 6:45 I was out the door but I felt like, (TMI coming up), I would need to use the restroom in the near future.
I decided to do the first mile in the neighborhood so that I was close to home. Glad I did that!
When I was about to walk out the door, again, I checked my app, Endomondo, to see how far I went. I had gone .76 miles but it was set for walking. What, who did that? LOL
I stopped it and started it again, and decided to just add 10 to that so I would have an accurate time.
On my long runs, I have been worried about running out of water, so I mapped out a new route that would take me past a few places that I could run into if I needed something. This was a good route and I think I will do it more often for my longer runs.
I have been worried about my hip, but was feeling pretty good. There were a few other runners out there, but mostly people who were on bikes and one walker. It was a beautiful morning and I wish I had taken a pic of the view I had of the Newport Bridge.
I recently purchased a Spibelt and this was my first long run using it. I had put my fuel in it and honestly, I didn't even know I had it on while running. Love it!
In mile six, I was passing a D and D and I made a pit stop. Got some H2O and back to running I went. At mile 7, I was beginning to really feel tired. I had a Uber Larabar that I picked up at an expo recently, Banana Foster. Yum so good! It helped a little but my hip and my legs were yelling at me.
Mile 8 was not good. The very top of my street, which I thought was going to be 9.5 miles was only 9. I was disappointed and considered just finishing there because technically, I had hit 10.
I knew though, that when I got back home, I would feel disappointed in myself. I also knew that I could do it. I continued on until I hit 10 miles. The last mile was my slowest to date, 15:08.
This was not my first time running 10 miles, but it was my worst time for that distance, 2:09:59.
 |
| Me after 10 miles. Yeah, I can't believe I am smiling either. |
When I got home, the smell of coffee was awesome! Thank you Mr. RWM. I iced my hip and wore my compression socks and felt great later when we had to head out to a Labor Day Bar-B-Que at Ethel's home.
All in all, it was a fabulous weekend for the RWM family and I am sorry it is over.
I would like to thank Mommy, Run Fast for hosting this race. I had fun!
Did you participate? How was it? What else did you do this holiday weekend?
Run Strong, Think Big!
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