Philadelphia Marathon Part One

It's done!  I am a marathoner!

Thursday, I spent most of the day packing and stressing about what to pack.  I ended up bringing 5 different race outfits, but better safe then sorry, right?

Friday morning we started our drive to Philadelphia. I started to calm down as there was nothing more I could do. I just wanted to be there.

Barb and her husband Randy were also driving in from Ohio.  We got there first and checked in.  With about an hour before Barb would be there, we decided to go to the expo and get the kids' and my numbers.  George and Gracie were racing on Saturday.

As soon as we walked into the expo, I was just amazed. It was big and I wanted to see everything, but didn't have time. Plus, Saturday was going to be my expo day with Barb and my friend Diane.

I went to get my number first.  I got in line and was handed my bib and to my surprise, my name was on it!  I was shocked and cried.  This was the first time I have had my name on my bib and I loved it!

From there, I got my shirt and bag.  Really great shirt and nice bag. Not too much in it, but I was happy none the less.

The kids numbers were in a different spot. We headed in that direction and again, to my surprise, their names were on their bibs too!  Well done Philly, well done!

They got really cool shirts too and some fun stuff in their race bag. Yes, they got swag to!

Back to the hotel and we were soon reunited with Barb and Randy. It has been about two years since we saw each other. Big hugs all around.

We stopped in our room before heading to dinner and again, to my surprise, there was champagne and flowers on the table in our room. Shocked once again, I opened the card.

It was from my TNT team, Haley's Sweet 16.  Shawna and the gang got together and sent this to my room with a beautiful note. More tears.  I have the most amazing support.

From there we met my parents for dinner. When I saw my mom, she gave me a huge hug and told me it was from Shawna. They had been talking back and forth setting up the flower and champagne delivery.   Thank you Haley's Sweet 16, you were a huge part of my weekend. I love everyone of you!

We ended up in China Town and had a fabulous meal. Conversation was good and it was just so nice to be with everyone.

I was tired by the time we got back to the room, but the kids were wired. Took a while to calm them down. We laid out their race outfits for the morning and finally they were asleep.  I think we all slept well.

George and Gracie woke up excited. They got dressed, we found breakfast and then we met my parents, Barb and Randy at the start of the kids race.

George was doing the mile and Gracie, the half mile.

The start was great. They even had a real clock. The start and finish was the same that the half and full runners were going to use the next day.  They had a fun warm up and then the half mile runners were off!  Gracie was one of the last runners in but she was smiling the whole time.  I love that she had fun and wore her medal for two days.

George was up next.  He seemed more nervous for some reason.  We cheered him on and I was surprised to see him coming into the finish when he did.  The clock above his head read 8:34!  That was a fast mile for my little guy and I am so very proud of him.

That is the look of a little man who just ran his heart out!

Before heading to the expo, Barb wanted to see the Rocky statue and run up the steps.  We got some great pictures and it was fun to see the statue again. Barb ran up all 70 steps and back down.  Woohoo my friend!

Yo Barbara!

The kids, my parents, Randy and Mr. RWM headed to lunch and the Franklin Institute. And finally, Barb and I were on our way to the expo.  I was very excited to get there and I was also going to meet my friend Diane in person!

BTW, the weather was really nice.  I got warm in my jacket. I started rethinking my race outfit for the hundredth time.

Barb snapped this when we were walking to the expo. I think I look like a lion.

Once at the expo, my heart was racing.  There were so many people and the excitement was contagious.  I was in heaven!

We found Diane and hugged.  It was so nice meeting one of my virtual friends in person.  She was running the half and it was going to be her first.  We spent two hours shopping and looking around. We also listened to the speaker who talked about the course.  I think it was good for us to hear.

Believe it or not, I did not get crazy with shopping.  I got exactly what I wanted. I did want the Philadelphia Marathon Finishers jacket but they were out of my size.  It will be a nice Christmas gift though and you can order it online Mr. RWM and kids.  Hint, hint.

By the time we were finished shopping, Barb and I were starving!  Not good.  So far I had fueled poorly and walked too much.  I actually felt terrible by the time we got to the hotel.  We headed to the hotel bar and ordered some food and a beer.  As soon as I started to eat, I felt better.  Lesson learned.

Soon after that, the family got back from the museum.  My parents were taking the kids for the night and I am so very thankful for that.  We said our goodbyes and for some reason, I couldn't help but cry.  I was sad to see my kids go, but knew it was for the best. I also knew as the night went on, that this was it. When I see my kids and parents again, it will be at the finish line.  It scared me a little.

We had a little down time before our dinner reservation.  I put my feet up and just relaxed. It felt good.

Our reservations were at the Marathon Grill. They had a special menu for the runners, plus their normal menu.  Our food was fantastic and I would definitely go back.

We left stuffed and happy, but on the walk back, my hands started to shake. This was it. Once I got back to the hotel, I would lay out my race outfit and everything I needed and go to bed. I was freaked out.  Really freaked out!

We walked slow.  I think on purpose. Barb and I had the same feeling.  Even though this was her fifth marathon, she was still nervous too.

We planned our meeting time, hugged and said goodnight.

I laid every thing out, took a pic and got in bed.  I watched a little TV but felt very tired.  Believe it or not, I slept great.

Part two tomorrow.

Run Strong, Think Big! ~ Nicole

My Third Date With the Newport Bridge

When I started running in 2011, racing was not part of my plan. That is until I heard about the Citizen's Bank Newport Pell Bridge Run.

I loved the idea of this race. Run across a bridge that I drive over at least once a week, with a beautiful view.  Downside, super early morning, crazy hill.  Didn't matter, I did it and today, I ran it for the third time.

Packet pick up was easy and fast.  Shirt this year is blue, which was a nice change and it seems nicer than the first two years.  I am looking forward to wearing it.

My shirt and number.

Flat Nicole.  This shirt is wicked warm.  It was too much for today..

The plan was for Beth, Kathy, Deb and I to meet at the park and ride and drive over together.  This race has a 6:30 am start, we had a 5:15 meeting time.

Believe it or not, I was actually able to get a sitter for this race.  I was hesitant to ask the girl down the street because it was so early, but she was fine with it. Yay!

While I was waiting for her to get here, I got a message from Deb saying she was at the lot and waiting.  I told her I would be there in 5 and asked her if the she saw Beth and her red car.  No she answered. Hmm… Beth is always 15 or more minutes early.

I got there, saw Deb and then Kathy pulled in soon after.  No Beth.  I texted and called.  No answer.  We waited till 5:30 and then headed over to Newport.

We had no problem parking and were soon on a bus getting shuttled to the start.  The only thing we had time for was a stop at the porta potties.

I had been stressing about Beth this whole time.  The crazy mommy in me had all kinds of not so good things going through my head.  Finally, I got this text from her.  "My alarm didn't go off!!!  Damn it!!!"

I was bummed and happy at the same time. She was ok, but I was so looking forward to seeing her.  It has been a while.  She wished us well and, I hope, went back to bed for a bit.

At the start.

The start was crowded and in a different spot from the year before.  They had 3900 runners and walkers this year.

We lined up, they had a few announcements and then the National Anthem was played.  I have mixed feeling about this.

The version they chose was from Madison Rising. If you haven't heard it, you can find it here.  This is a rock song and it made people not pay attention to our flag.  They shook there heads like it was 1986 and laughed and joked. Sorry, but as the wife of a Veteran, not to mention what our country has gone through the last several years, I thought it was very disrespectful.  Just so you understand, it wasn't the song as much as it was the behavior.

To make matters worse, in the middle of our National Anthem, they made an announcement!!!  I have to say, it was a disgrace and my heart was crushed a little.

I watched the video when I got home and I enjoyed it.  Different place, different time.  It's all good and it didn't' ruin my race.  In fact, the song after the gun went off was Follow the Yellow Brick Road.  This made me and my friends smile and off we went.

When I hit the mat, I started my Garmin. Or so I thought. You know me and this crazy watch. Once again, it locked up on a screen and didn't move.  This time it was a new screen, a compass.  I didn't even know I had a freaking compass!

No time to restart it, so I just left it.  This is a fun race for me. I run it with friends, no time goal, and well,  now that I have been running for a couple years, I take a stroll down memory lane. This race was a big one for me, and once I crossed the line the first time, I knew I would be back over and over again.  Who needs a Garmin for that!

The start was crowded and up hill. This just slows you down.  We weaved in and out of people who were walking. Clearly they did not see the signs for pace.

Going through the tolls.

Deb and I were together for the uphill.  We lost Kathy in the crowd but the plan was to take a pic at the top of the bridge so when we got three, we waited a minute for her.

A lady running by us stopped and took the picture for us. She said she stops once a year to help out a group who is taking a picture, and we were the lucky group this year.  Thank you awesome stranger!

At the top!

Just a random shot.

The downhill of the bridge is always nice. The three of us were together for a while and then Kathy slowed up a bit.  I was feeling pretty good but was dressed way to warm.  Deb was keeping me occupied by asking questions about getting ready for Philly and that just got me excited talking about it.

Once we were at the bottom of the bridge, Deb was speeding up a bit.  At the bottom of the off ramp, I pulled over to wait for Kathy. I didn't see her right away, so I moved on to the water stop.  I waited here a minute and then she was there.  I didn't want to leave her. She seemed to be struggling a bit and I wanted to keep her company.

We saw some great costumes today.  A gingerbread man, a banana and Forest Gump.  But what was really amazing in this last half mile, was a firefighter in full gear. Oxygen Tank and everything.  I ran past him and told him what a great job he was doing and way to go! I don't know what his cause is, but I can imagine. He was cool and he looked really good. He made me proud to be able to run next to him for a bit.

The finish was in site! Kathy picked it up just a bit here.  We crossed the line within seconds of each other, smiling.

We saw Deb and congratulated each other.

From there we got some food and water.  They had a band and a beer tent where all the runners could get a free beer.  They were nice additions to the race this year.

The walk back to our car was cold.  I was so happy I had dressed in layers and put my second shirt back on.  Where we parked had a great view of the bridge so we took one more picture.

Can you see the bridge?

Back at our cars, we said goodbye to Deb and Kathy and I headed to breakfast.

It really was a nice morning. It is an early start but it is so worth it.  I will run again next year and I am hoping to get George to do it with me.  He almost said yes before he found out he would have to wake up in the dark.  He's only eight, we have plenty of time.

I missed Beth, but will see her soon, I hope. Sounds like she had a nice day too. She headed over to the RI 6 Hour Ultramarathon to cheer on our friend Mike.  He had a pretty amazing race and ran 32.6 miles!  Way to go Mike!

So not making a big deal about but it's November which means I have now been blogging for two years.  Happy Blogiversary to me!  It has been a really cool two years, thanks to so many of you.  You keep me going as much as I hope, I keep you going.  My big race is coming up, something I never dreamed possible.  Thank you for being here to share it with me.

ONE WEEK TO THE PHILADELPHIA MARATHON!!!

Run Strong, Think Big! ~ Nicole

Oh, You Still Have to Run During the Taper! Oops...

I cannot tell a lie.  I have not run since Tuesdays 20 miler.

Most of you know, I have not been feeling well and I may have run my 20 a little too soon. Also, my PF flared after that run and I thought it would be wise to not run.  I had big plans for some biking but all I banged out this week was walking.  No weights, no yoga, no spin. Oh I did play Just Dance on the Wii and did work up a pretty good sweat.  Such a fun game!

Today, would have been a good day for a run. Who am I kidding?  It still is.  But here is the thing.  Mr. RWM has been away pretty much since September.  He got home late last night and the four of us are together and I don't want to leave them.  We are all in football jersey's and eating football food and just enjoying each other.  I cannot get back the time we lost being apart so I am not going to give up today.

It's that simple.  Family first. Always, family first.  Even though I have taken ten minutes to write this up, my kids are all over me and we are cuddling.

I might of over did the taper this week.  

I have a standing Monday morning running date so tomorrow it is.  I have a race on Sunday, but a fun one which I am really looking forward to.

I will run probably Tuesday and Thursday also.  I should be able to do a couple spin classes too.  Despite the lack of miles this week, I am still feeling pretty good about Philly.  I am not worried or nervous, just really excited.  I am guessing my nerves will kick in when I start to pack.

On a fun note, my family and I watched the NYC Marathon today.  What made it special is that my great friend, virtual running buddy and running partner for Philly, Barb, was on line at the same time. We instant messaged each other during the marathon and it was nice to share the excitement with someone who felt the same way as I did watching.  Can't wait to see you Barb!

Two weeks to the Philadelphia Marathon!

Run Strong, Think Big! ~ Nicole

Let The Taper Begin!

I did it! 20 miles!

It was not easy, but I did it!

I woke up feeling a little nervous and unmotivated to do this run.  I wanted do it, but I just wanted it to be done.

I had coffee, made the kids lunches and got dressed in my running clothes. When I walked the kids to the bus, it was chillier than expected.

Rethinking my shirt, I put on one that was slightly heavier and grabbed gloves.

Stephanie was the first to arrive.  I was running with her for the first time. She was so nice and I hope we run with her again. I am going to see if she wants to join in on my Monday morning runs with Mary. I think the three of us will be good together.

Once Michael arrived and he gathered his stuff, we were off.  As you know by now, I live at the bottom of hill. I tried running up it on my Sunday run, but was soon out of breath. Since this is the beginning of the run and I was not 100% better, we walked up most of it. It was too early in the run to mess around.

Once we were on 1A, we hit a pretty good pace and the conversation was good.  Mike and Stephanie knew some of the same people, which is such a Rhode Island thing.  Just made me laugh listening to it all.

Stephanie said she was good for 4-5 miles. There is a little bridge 4 1/2 miles from my house which was a good spot for Lori to park and pick up Stephanie.  She was there right on time.

We grabbed some water, I thanked Stephanie for running with me and we said our goodbyes.  Mike and I were then on our way to meet my friend Jenn at the beach. She said she was good for 6 or so.

Soon as we started running again, I realized I forgot to get a pic with Steph. Bummed!

I wanted to run in some different places. Now, obviously I live here and know the streets but I haven't run on all of them.  I asked if everyone was good with running to the Point Judith Light House and then head back. Everyone was on board.

For the most part, the run was good.  It was nice to have such good company and Jenn and Mike were both very motivating.  Getting close to the light house though, my calves and hamstrings were tightening up.  At the light house, I stretched a bit and we snapped a pic.

Jenn, Mike and Me!  12. 43 miles give or take a few points.

We did some of the side streets and looked at the beautiful homes and ocean. It was such a nice day.

The wind on this stretch of road was not good though. It really bothered me.  When we hit 15 miles, I was thrilled and might of gotten a little teary.  I needed to walk here though. Not much, but it felt good.

When we saw Lori this next time, I couldn't say hi to her. I used my inhaler and felt better.  Had some gatorade and refilled my water. The next time we would see her would be at mile 20.

BTW, Jenn was still with us.  She felt good and kept on running.  She is a great runner and friend.  I was so happy to have her stay with us.

These last five miles were the toughest for me. I was slow and wanted to be done!  Everyone was so encouraging and they literally kept me going at this point.

When we hit 18 miles, we were at Jenn's car.  I asked if she was stopping but she said no. She wasn't leaving us this close to the end. Awesome!

I walked a little in this mile and when we hit 19, I had to send Lori a text to tell her we would be ending in a different spot then we had thought.  Then we ran.

It was the last mile, I was feeling so many different emotions. I hurt, but I was happy.  I started to tear up and then I couldn't breath.  We were at 19.5 miles.

I needed my inhaler and quick. I actually struggled to get it out of my pocket and then it took 3 tries before I got it in. It was a little scary not just for me. I may have freaked out Jenn and Mike. They were calm though.  Had to walk here once I was breathing again. but I was determined to finish running.

Once I was able to run again, we did and I ran until my Garmin hit 20.00 and I stopped!

I cried and hugged everyone.  I was so thrilled.  We walked it off a bit and stretched.  Lori picked us up and drove Mike and I back to my house.

Mike and I ran all 20, Stephanie ran with us for 4 1/2 and Jenn, who set out for 6 ran 14 miles!  I have some rockstar running friends for sure!  We finished under four hours too!

The car ride was tough.  My legs felt like they were still moving and hurt.  I wanted to rip them off. Lori helped me into my house and Mr. RWM and my mom were there. I broke down in tears.  Mr. RWM knew what to do and started an ice bath for me. Mom freaked out a bit.  She thought I was hurt and can't understand why I just did that to myself.

Ice bath was good, then I showered and ate a huge plate of Shepherd's Pie, drank chocolate milk and ate four Laffy Taffy.  They are my weakness and favorite candy.  Enjoyed every bite with no guilt!

Mom made a fabulous dinner for us and I was so thankful that I didn't have to do anything.  I was in bed early and slept like a baby.

I woke up feeling sore but what has me concerned is my PF. As soon as I stepped out of bed, I knew I was in trouble. I hobbled to the bathroom and couldn't get shoes on fast enough.  This is not good. It takes so long to feel better. I will continue to stretch, ice, and use the golf ball.  I have the night splint that I can sleep in too.

What are your thoughts on running. Take an extra day or two or just continue on as normal with the taper?

Other than that, I am thrilled. I did something that I was pretty sure was impossible.  I am ready for the marathon and I am really looking forward to it. I know it is going to be a great weekend.

Thank you to everyone who has supported me along the way.  We are so close now.

2 1/2 weeks to the Philadelphia Marathon!

Run Strong, Think Big! ~ Nicole

Just for fun, my splits...

1	11:03.6	1.00	11:04
2	10:15.9	1.00	10:16
3	10:07.7	1.00	10:08
4	9:53.2	1.00	9:53
5	10:00.4	1.00	10:00
6	10:34.7	1.00	10:35
7	10:34.7	1.00	10:35
8	10:39.5	1.00	10:39
9	10:41.9	1.00	10:42
10	12:36.5	1.00	12:37
11	11:11.5	1.00	11:12
12	11:12.1	1.00	11:12
13	11:53.6	1.00	11:54
14	11:34.1	1.00	11:34
15	11:49.2	1.00	11:49
16	13:18.7	1.00	13:19
17	12:36.1	1.00	12:36
18	12:43.4	1.00	12:43
19	12:43.4	1.00	12:43
20	12:44.9	1.00	12:45

Summary

3:48:14.9

20.00

11:25

Bummed!

Well, if you follow me on FB, then you know I have not been feeling well.  It has been a really long time since I have been sick and it is not fun.

Because breathing/asthma was such an issue I did not get my 20 miler in on Thursday. This bummed me out for a few reasons. First, because I set up a huge support team to run with me and figuring it all out was not easy. I thank each and every one of you who planned to be with me.

Second, it's not done! This was the BIG one.  The last big one.  It should of been smooth sailing from here to the marathon.  I was ready and now I am discouraged.

I thought I was ok today and planned on three miles.  Today though, was the last day of soccer and it was just me and the kids.  Gracie played for an hour and George had three games over the course of two hours.  It was cold and very windy and by the time I left the field, three hours later, my voice was gone again and my chest hurt.

I feel a little better now, but going to put it off for one more day.  My new plan is run tomorrow, no less than three miles and if all goes well, do my 20 on Tuesday.  I should be good to go by then. Keep your fingers crossed for me.

Of course, if you are available Tuesday to run with me, I would love to have you join me.

Now on to a fun giveaway.  If you plan to race in costume, post your pictures on my FB page. The photo with the most likes, will win a Shubeez and Sweat Pink Laces.  I will keep it running through November 3rd.

So looking forward to you pictures!  Good Luck.

Three weeks to the Philadelphia Marathon!

Run Strong, Think Big! ~ Nicole

Run For the Pumpkins 5k Recap

Before I get into the race, let me just recap my week for you a bit.

Tuesday and Wednesday, I ran 3 miles each day.  Both runs were pleasant, and I felt good.  I'm not gonna lie, I am short miles for the week, but I did what I could and I have no regrets.

Thursday, was my long run, 14 miles.  I put it out there that I was looking for company, which I pretty much do for every run now.  Michael of Forward Momentum chimed in and said he would run all 14 with me.  What? Really?  Wait, let me just remind him I am slow, sometimes walk and always cry.  He was still on board!

I can write a post just on this run, but here is the bottom line.  This run rocked!  My watch died in mile three, so I just relied on Michaels app.  It was kinda nice to not look at my Garmin constantly.

I am excited to tell you that we finished in 2:31:16. Just in case you are not a fan of math like me, that is  PR for 13.1. That came out to 2:18.  Not official, I know, but still exciting to me.

Four and half miles into our 14

Now, last week after I ran Newport, George said he wanted to run a race with me.  I got excited and immediately started looking for a 5k near by.  The race that popped out at me was Run For the Pumpkins in Westerly, RI.

This race was put on by the Westerly Track and Athletic Club, which Michael is part of.  I got to ask him a few questions about it when we ran the 14.  He said it was a small race with rolling hills but nice.  Great!

George turned eight on Friday and he just couldn't calm down.  He has so many nice friends, who gave him such nice gifts.

His party was on Saturday and he and his friends had a blast!  He also told me he didn't want to run anymore. He just wanted to sleep in, stay in his PJ's and play with all his new toys. I couldn't say no.  We are on the go so often, I wanted him to have his time.  I still planned on running.

I have to say, I ate so bad on Saturday, plus I drank a couple beers.  I knew I would pay for it while running.

I had told Michael that I had been chasing a sub 30 5k for a while and when I told him George was not going to run with me, he said he would pace me to a PR.  I was game, but had doubts.

My allergies have been bad the last couple days which makes my asthma worse.  That, plus the junk food, made me think I wouldn't make it.

Registration opened at 10.  I was there at 9:50.  Amazing how early I am when I don't have the family with me.

Michael was at the table helping out. He introduced me to some really nice people and I felt right at home.

I had a lot of time, so I sat in the car a little, ate my banana, stretched and ran about a mile for a warm up.

Cool shirt!

We lined up and he gave me the run down about how fast we needed to go.  He does everything in kilometers and I just said OK.  Here we go!

We went out fast. Faster than I have ever run.  My breathing was labored but I was moving forward.  I thought I was feeling better right after the first mile, but by the time we hit 1.5, I needed my inhaler.  It took three tries but once I did it, we walk just a few feet and I was running again.

Michael was awesome. He kept me on pace, and was very encouraging. I was not my usual chipper self with tons of stuff to say.  But he kept saying I was doing great and I really needed to hear that.

In the last mile, my stomach felt like I had a brick in it and I was slowing down.  Michael was telling me what was coming up and how close we were to the finish.  Once we were in the parking lot and the finish was in site, I was able to pick it up.  I saw the clock and heard the cheering and in the finish I went.  Official time, 29:56!

Running into the finish.  Love this one!

I was totally out of breath but was able to hug Michael and then walk to the water and snacks.  I was in shock that we pulled it off.  The course was tough, so many hills.  This should of not been a PR course but it was.  Now I need to find a flat race and see what I can do with that.

As I was eating a bagel and having some water, I noticed that a few people were still coming in but there were very few people at the finish line.  I headed back and was so happy to see a little guy, I am guessing 6 years old and his dad come in.  It was so nice and it made me miss George.

I stayed for the age group awards, something I don't always do.  With just about 60 people though, it really was right after the last runner came in.

I was still feeling pretty high at this point and then I heard my name.  I looked at Michael in shock, walked up to the guy holding the medal and said, "Really?"  He smiled and handed my my medal.  I was, of course, crying.  Not a lot, but I didn't know what else to do.  I looked at my medal and put it on.    I had the women next to me, snap my picture.

I watched the last of the awards but I did not hear what was going on.  I was still thinking this can't be.  It was here I went over to the printed times to make sure I wasn't the only 40 something female runner. I was not, whew!  There weren't many of us, but I don't care.  I was first!

I got a picture with Mike and then we said our goodbyes. I thanked him because I am sure it wouldn't of happened without him.  I truly have some of the best running friends out there and I love everyone of them.

Everyone I met today was so very nice. I hope to see and run with them again.  I love small local races and even though this was a tough one, I would do it again for sure!

For some reason, my chest is still tight and I am coughing a lot.  My voice sounds weird too.  Allergies are new to me and I am guessing that that is all it is. I have five miles planned for today with Mary, and hope I feel ok.  I will let you know how it goes.

Four weeks to the Philadelphia Marathon!

Run Strong, Think Big! ~ Nicole