I Run For My Life

Snow Day

2010-01-07T17:00:00.002-06:00

It snowed! And I was due to run this AM. So I stayed safe on the treadmill and watched it come down. Yes, this amount of snow (as shown in the photo) is enough to cancel school around here.

I ran for 3.5 miles and was so very happy. The early morning is where it's at! I plan to keep up with the early morning sessions. It's so good for me... I get "me time" plus some, as I am usually done by 7 AM and Isaac gets up closer to 9 AM. Whoo hoo!

A Stand Up Guy

2010-01-05T12:49:00.004-06:00

This is how I feel regarding the holiday season:

Enough is enough! Let's get back to normal.

On Monday 12/28 I had a dental surgery. Ouch! Just prior to it I took a 4.25 mile walk. The surgery netted me another week off (from running). That makes my total "rest time" post-marathon three weeks. Hopefully that did my legs and body some good.

We all need our rest.

Now I am back at it! As part of my ongoing list of goals, I have been determined to run in the early morning. I didn't make it yesterday due to Chasen having to be at work at about 6 AM, but I sure did it today! I was out there at 6 AM in 20 degree weather. I wore double layers of everything, and the only cold thing was my face. I can deal!!! It felt good to be out there and again feel like I was "cheating time." I can't even remember the last time I ran and showered all before 8 AM. Hooray!

My FREE finish line photo from the Rocket City Marathon arrived! Chip time 5:59:55.

The great thing about that photo is that Chasen and Isaac are in it, too! See them to my left?

Now I have some BIG NEWS. My little Isaac, who'll be one year old in less than six weeks. stood up on his own for a second today! Whoa baby! Or, should I say, whoa toddler!?!

Put A Bow On It!

2009-12-31T11:57:00.002-06:00

Let's wrap up 2009, shall we? Obviously the BIGGEST and BEST thing for me in 2009 was the birth of Isaac Roy on February 15th. Oh how life has changed! We've had an amazing 10.5 months with him so far.

In 2009 I lost 49 pounds! OK, OK... I lost 24 pounds of baby and "stuff" when Isaac was born, but I was left with 25 more to go. I am happy to report that I was able to shed that 25 before Isaac was 9 months old by following The Diet Solution Program.

Another KEY factor in shedding that weight was the glorious news that I was chosen for Team Point Two. The marathon training guidance I received, plus the new friendships that I formed, truly got me back in marathon shape faster than I ever dreamed possible. As you all know, I ran marathon #3 within 10 months of Isaac's birth. I am so proud and grateful!

This year I ran and walked 749.3 miles. Whoa baby! (pardon the pun) I am actually shocked to see that number... but the miles don't lie. Looking back, though, I really only took six weeks off all year (pregnancy weeks 36-39 and then the past three weeks post-marathon, to get me all rested up for marathon training for race #4, plus a dental surgery I am recovering from right now). In 2008 I ran and walked only 287.9 miles thanks to taking many, many months off due to a torn tendon. How did I ever make it without running?

In 2010 I intend to run marathon #4 (possibly #5, also - but we shall see) and I'd like to improve my cycling skills (which wouldn't take much, as I don't even know how to properly switch gears). I'll probably be in the best shape of my life because Isaac is on the cusp of walking... and I don't see a moment's rest in my future!

Happy New Year, everyone. Thanks for all of your support over this very big, challenging year I've had.

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T17:33:00.010-06:00

Whoever said Christmas is more fun when you have a child... well, they sure know what they're talking about!

Our new stockings were hung on the mantle with care.

Wowee! Look what Santa left for Isaac!

Yay! I'll be able to use this 4-in-1 Sit n' Ride until I am about 3 years old! Thanks, Santa!

Ripping into boxes is fun.

Biting gifts is fun!

I love the taste of gift bags!

Mmmm... bows!

Shaking wrapping paper is my new favorite hobby.

What an excellent day. It sooooo is not about me, but just so you know... my stocking was filled with a whole bunch of new Gu!!!!! Yay! Merry Christmas, everyone. Mine couldn't have been much better.

Post-Marathon Life

2009-12-19T21:05:00.007-06:00

So, what have I been up to? You know, I thought I'd sooooo enjoy some down time after the marathon. The reality is, I have hardly noticed that I've not been running. Life is constantly busy thanks to this little guy:

Constantly pulling up, cutting four teeth at once - life is interesting!

First visit with Santa! It went great. Isaac was a little doll, thankfully.

"Helping" Mommy with his laundry.

Checking out our couch (which is pushed back to make more room for him).

Enjoying his reflection, not the booze. New Christmas shoes from Coach Terry!

Seriously, I have been so busy that I haven't even noticed that I have not been running this week. On Monday I was rather "down and out." On Tuesday it hit me like a ton of bricks that I'd had the marathon blues. Duh! They only stayed around for a day, I think. No time for that!

I have targeted another marathon 16 weeks from now. I'd like to do one sooner, but I consider myself extremely fortunate to be injury-free at this time, and I'd like to stay that way. I thought I'd go for a run just a few days after feeling un-sore, but I am truly trying to enjoy this time. Today I gave blood, so maybe tomorrow I can go for a little spin. We shall see!

More Ricket City

2009-12-14T15:44:00.007-06:00

I have more to say about Rocket City! It was such a small, well organized event that I can't stop giving it compliments.

Here is a quick video that Chasen took on one of the early visits on the course.

After the race I took a moderate ice bath. You see, the hotel was completely filled, and since I was literally one of the last to finish the race, there was very little ice to be found. And our tub's stopper did not work. And there really wasn't any cold water, strangely enough. So, we did the best we could.

That evening we went for pizza and gelato!

This is not spaghetti. It's gelato!

We gave Isaac the tiniest bite possible. He didn't like the coldness.

Here is the front of my colorful medal.

And here is the back.

I have already hung it on my medal rack. I hate to say it, but Little Rock dwarfs everything.

This race was such a value! I registered early for $50. And I received a tech shirt and a tech cap!

You get a lot of bang for the buck at Rocket City.

I am doing well today. Nearly all of the soreness is gone already, I swear. If I would have gotten a proper ice bath, I might be good as gold today!

Rocket City Marathon

2009-12-12T17:06:00.024-06:00

I am a three-time marathoner now! I am so incredibly proud since less than ten months ago I had a baby. Oh what a journey it has been! I have so, so many people that I am grateful to, namely my spouse (Chasen) and my marathon advisor (John). But let's get right to the report.

We arrived in Huntsville early yesterday afternoon. After dinner I laid out all of my gear. Here is my shirt.

I am now, and will always be, running for Elijah.

Everything was ready to go in the closet. It takes a lot of stuff to run 26.2 miles!

I slept really well last night, thank goodness. I woke about once an hour from 3 AM on, but that's fine by me. I got up. had my breakfast, "did my business" and got ready to head out. Since it was sooooo cold (less than 40 degrees, we decided that Chasen and Isaac would stay in the room. The race literally started and ended in front of our hotel. What luck! And we got to stay here for FREE thanks to Chasen's travel points. Score!

Yesterday at the expo I got to meet THE Disney Runner, Gordon from Alabama! We hit it off like old pals (since we technically are). So I found him at the start line, where I was literally THE LAST RUNNER. Gordon and I took off together. That was fantastic! However, that didn't even last five miles because I had to make an emergency visit to the port-o-potty which cost me nearly 3 minutes, I think. Not good! I'll let you use your imagination as to what I was doing in there.

After that I was never to see Gordon again. In fact, I ran about the next 17 miles ALONE, in the wind and cold, with no ipod (as this is a no-headphones race and apparently everyone stuck to it). I was, of course, very lonely out there. Granted, I do every single training run alone. But, marathons are different. I always find a buddy to make it much, much easier! No such luck today, at least not yet.

My port-o-potty stop put me dead last on the course. Literally. The police car was following me. This made water stops and cheering stations very exciting as I got rock star treatment! The people were probably thinking "Hallelujah, this is the last person. Now we can get out of this cold!"

I wasn't last for long. I really got my act together and started passing people. Mind you, I was under STRICT orders from John to not exceed 12:52 per mile for the first 10 miles. So I tried to do just that!

Here I am when Chasen and Isaac first got to me, around mile 9. Lookin' good!

And here I am again, flying solo.

I really focused on the fact that I was running "just ten miles - for John." They clicked off like nothing.

Miles 1-10: Under 12:52 Or John Will Kill Me

1 - 13:09 (with Gordon)

2 - 12:43 (with Gordon)

3 - 12:26 (with Gordon - sorry John!)

4 - 12:33 (ditto)

5 - 15:01 (port-o-potty debacle, eeeeew!)

6 - 14:13 (I think this must have been where I had to stop AGAIN. Eeeew!)

7 - 12:15

8 - 13:03

9 - 12:37

10 - 13:09

After this I planned to speed up a bit. I was still alone, but I was seeing Chasen and Isaac more frequently. It was freezing cold, and oh so windy, so Chasen only got Isaac out every few stops. But when he did, I got a kiss! Now that put some spring into my stride! And might I point out that I ran the first 17 or so miles SOLID, i.e. no walking!?! That is a huge accomplishment for me.

Miles 11-20: Diligent But Conservative

11 - 12:15

12 - 12:43

13 - 12:26

14 - 12:14

15 - 12:08

16 - 12:38

17 - 13:40

18 - 14:43

19 - 14:15

20 - 15:05

After this, when the wheels were starting to fall off, I called John. I figured it would do me some good. He did not disappoint! He commended me and told me to go to the 3:1 method. That worked! Shortly after this I finally met a running buddy who agreed to 3:1 it with me. He is Eric the first time marathoner and first time dad (albeit triathlete) who only trained up to ten miles for this race. Crazy!

Here are first-time-dad Eric and I getting down to business.

The next time Chasen passed by I yelled "I finally found a friend!" Ha. We stayed together until mile 24 or so, but I'll get to that...

Here we are again. He was an amazing help to me.

At about mile 24 we started to see the rest of the pack (less than ten other people) and the "course sweepers," the two people designated to run a perfect 6:00:00 race. We knew we had to hustle, so Eric suggested that we started running solid. This is when I started "haulin' a$#!!!!!"

This is about the last time we'd be together. Eric had a much longer stride, so he got ahead.

As I said, this is when I turned on the heat! It was necessary to meet the official course deadline of 6:00:00. I could not walk, not in the last bit. I started running hard (for an exhausted 26.2 mama). I wasn't saying anything to any of the volunteers any more. Honestly, all of my under-my-breath words for ones with four letters! I had to finish this dang thing.

The finish line just wouldn't show its face. Run, run, run. It was finally in sight - hallelujah. The cheering was immense and intense! And I had left Eric in the dust.

Here I come, at long last! I was giving it all I had.

Elated to be steps away from the finish line!

Miles 21-26.2: Finish This Insanity ASAP

21 - 16:25

22 - 15:20

23 - 15:44

24 - 15:35

25 - 14:34

26 - 12:28

.2 - an 8:43 pace!

Total: 5:59:58 Thank God!

So, it wasn't my best race, but I could not be more proud. It was tough out there! But as Chasen put it, "I was tougher." Now that's a good man!

I parked it in the lobby and Chasen went to get me some food. Isaac sports my medal!

I am the proudest Marathoner Mommy there is! Isaac sports my Rocket City finisher's hat.

That's all, folks. It was a long, hard journey (both today and the past almost ten months). But now I'VE DONE IT!

Reflection Run

2009-12-09T20:38:00.003-06:00

Well, I've done it. I have completed training for my first post-baby marathon! I honestly can not believe it.

"All I want for Christmas is for Mommy to cross the finish line at Rocket City!"

I mean really... it has been a long, hard road. It's a darn good thing I proclaimed while pregnant that I'd run another marathon before Isaac turns one year old. Otherwise, upon learning how hard it would be for me to "come back" from pregnancy, I may have just thrown my hands up in the air and pleaded "mom blob forever!"

Thankfully, as you all know, I didn't get that choice. Instead, I was chosen for Team Point Two! Thank God, Toni, Steve and John for that! I was put on a plan the second I got my doc's OK six weeks after Isaac was born... and those folks, plus all of my wonderful teammates, never let me quit! It was sooooo hard in the beginning, and oh so very hot for the vast majority of this journey, but that is now water under the bridge because I am less than three days away from marathon #3. Whoo hoo!

And Isaac is about three seconds away from destroying everything I own, at all times. LOL

I just can't thank everyone enough for all of the support I have received. It truly means the world to me. I thought of it as I ran a final 3-miler tonight. Next stop: Huntsville, Alabama!

1 Week To Go!

2009-12-06T20:18:00.005-06:00

Holy moly... I can not believe that this time next week I will be basking in the glow of completing my third marathon. Wow - I truly have come a long way in the past 42 weeks (since birthing Isaac). Thank you, thank you, thank you Team Point Two.

Isaac says "I've come a long way, too. I have moved to the big boy tub!"

This week was a mixed bag. I finally went to the doc about my hurting ears. As it turns out, I had a bit of fluid (and now have antibiotics) and A LOT of build-up in there. Eeeew! So I had the grand experience of an ear wash? If you've ever had one, you know that it is an experience indeed. But now my ears are clean as a whistle! No more q-tip usage...

By Tuesday I already felt better, which was good because I had to run 4 miles. No sweat! Wednesday was 6 and Friday was 5 (which I actually got to do outdoors, a rarity for a non-longrun).

Isaac is interested in Keira's ankle bracelet. Konrad's shirt says "iPoo." Ha!

Here, he tries to escape Keira. Fickle man!

First time in his heirloom rocker. Of course, all his friends had to move to the floor.

On Saturday I had my FINAL pre-marathon longrun. Yikes! I was fit to be tied by the time I got to get out the door to do it. Running is SUCH a stress reliever for me these days. I swear, I don't know how I'd manage without it. Alas, I was to do 8 easy miles. Something odd I have discovered is that it is a bit easier for me to go a bit faster these days. Can you believe I just typed that? I pulled 12:07, 11:46, 11:29, 11:26, 11:07, 11:01, 11:07 and 11:07. Holy smokes! That's an 11:24 average.

This week will consist of two easy runs and, hopefully, a lot of rest. We shall see! I will update later in the week as to my status on all fronts. Rocket City, here I come.

A Deer In Headlights

2009-11-30T07:46:00.009-06:00

Goodness... where to begin? First and foremost, my family has been sick for 3+ weeks, at least. We just can't all get well at the same time. Isaac is probably immune to Mucinex and humidified air by this point. We have been trying to get as much rest as possible.

Like mother, like son. Naptime!

On Wednesday of last week I turned 35 years young. Wow. The good news is that I got some new running sunglasses and a huge assortment of Gu!!!

Thanksgiving feast at church. Notice Isaac's turkey!

Chasen again cooked us our own Thanksgiving feast this year (well, 4 dishes... but that is a feast!)

"Mommy, I do NOT like pureed turkey and cranberries."

Isaac has gone from zero to sixty this past week! I am a bit in shock. Previously he was sitting up a bit here and there, but preferred to lie down and play.

Not anymore! He is now a sitting champion. That is quite enough for me, but...

The next thing I knew, he was starting to pull up on his crib! And teeth on it! STOP!

Heart attack for Mommy... he's all the way up. And so proud of himself!

Proof! I was in shock. Wasn't he just born yesterday?

Not even two minutes later, he did it again.

My head is just spinning. My life is in the process of a dramatic change here, folks! I feel like a deer in headlights.

On the running front, I had a "light" week. I ran 3 times. I did well! But then I had to skip my longrun because my head was about to explode from some sinus nastyness. John wants me to focus on being as close to 100% healthy as possible for Rocket City, which is 12 days away. 12 days! Oh my. Wish me luck!

One For The Books

2009-11-21T11:58:00.009-06:00

Upon returning from Chicago last Sunday, I set right into a whirlwind week. Isaac still had a bit of a cold, so I bumped up his 9-month checkup by one day to Monday.

"Levi J has nothing on me!"

He's fine, no need to worry. This was, however, the first time that I took him to the pediatrician alone. So I had to hold him while he got shots. No fun! But a mommy's got to do what a mommy's got to do. Speaking of which... right when I got home and Isaac was napping I hopped right onto the treadmill for a 4-miler at 3:1. I just don't know what I would have done for the past 9+ months without a treadmill!

On Monday night I had to attend a dinner on behalf of my women's philanthropy group and distribute some gift cards to some needy children. While there I accepted a plaque of appreciation... which meant that there was no way I could skip my group's monthly meeting the next night. Aaaack!

There I am in purple, thinking "I am sooooo glad I got my run done this afternoon."

Tuesdays are meant for challenging track workouts. With no childcare, I had to use the treadmill. And since I had to go to that pesky meeting (which I thought Isaac may also have to attend) I had to somehow accomplish 6 miles whilst keeping Isaac somehow happy next to me. On a wing and a prayer, it happened. He fell asleep!

By Wednesday I was just pooped. But life goes on! Other than running, a priority was grocery shopping. This presents a challenge because I can no longer plop Isaac's infant carrier on top of the buggy (which is what Southern folks call the grocery cart). Moving him to the big boy car seat has thrown a wrench into a lot of things! I had no idea if he'd stay upright, or for how long, in the kiddie part of the buggy... but we needed groceries! Chasen was to work late (story of my life these days), so I had no option of going alone later. So off we went, Clorox wipes in hand. Once I scoured the buggy I put on Isaac's cart cover/activity center.

I wedged him in with my coat and other stuff. He did great! Here he looks very stoic in produce.

After that we came home and I did another 4-miler on the treadmill before getting another shower and heading to church - just the two of us. *sigh*

Thursday and Friday presented the biggest challenges of the week... but in a good way! You see, through the women's group I applied for and was selected to be part of the Leadership DeSoto Class of 2010. I was stoked! From the website: "Leadership DeSoto is a program sponsored by the DeSoto Council and directed toward individuals in DeSoto County who demonstrate leadership potential. Leadership DeSoto provides participants an opportunity to learn more about the community in which they live and work and to better understand the opportunities and challenges facing DeSoto County." Cool, huh?!?

The orientation was all day Thursday. My dear friend Sharon drove 145 miles one-way to stay with Isaac that day. She is such a blessing! When I got home and still had her here for a while, I headed to the treadmill for another challenging 6-miler... which turned into a 2.91 miler. You see, my trick ankle started to hurt. Not discomfort, but pain. I stopped immediately. With Rocket City three weeks away, I was not about to push it. I called it a night.

On Friday Chasen had to be to work super early, so I had a hectic morning getting Isaac all ready and packed up to go to our favorite in-town sitter's house. Once I got him dropped off, I headed to the "ropes course" for Leadership DeSoto at a hospital. From the website: "Parkwood’s Challenge Ropes Course offers organizations the opportunity to provide a unique training field in such areas as problem solving, communication skills, understanding diversity, trust, conflict resolution, and resource management by offering challenging events that relate to day to day living." Oh what a day! We had to do some things blindfolded with a trusted partner, and we even swang from suspended tires (as in from one to the other). That was tough! I am still sore, but proud to have mad it, since some people did not complete the tires! The best part, though, was that we really got to know each other. There are 30 of us in this year's group.

I was supposed to do a 4-miler on Friday, but I opted out in light of my ankle and the fact that I was just exhausted, and had felt so pretty much all week. Rest is a beautiful thing. Little did I know, though, just how much I'd be getting. Chasen announced that he'd have to be at work at 7 AM on Saturday and be there until night. Whaaaaa? What about my 18 miler? Given the circumstances, we decided to skip church on Sunday and just do it then. He can rest (much needed!) with Isaac and I can run. God will have to understand.

So today Isaac and I are making up for some lost time that we missed on Thursday and Friday.

Isaac has one tooth and one on the way! Both are his upper front teeth.

He even kinda-sorta pulled up this week. Oh my!

I just don't know what I'd do without my little man! He keeps me hoppin' all the time. My quote for today is [insert frustrated voice] "Poop goes on your BOOTY." Generally after one says that, much laundry washing and bathing occurs. I'll let you use your imagination! Ha.

Stay sane, people. I know sometimes it is a chore around here!

Sorority Girl Runs 13.1 Miles!

2009-11-16T07:41:00.008-06:00

You may find this hard to believe, considering all of the stereotypes in the world, but I was in a sorority. I went to college at the Illinois Institute of Technology, where there are about 4 guys for every girl. That sounds great in theory, but in reality it makes for very few girls to be friends with by comparison! So when I arrived at college and met some great gals from Kappa Phi Delta Sorority and was asked to join, I jumped in head first. Oh the good times!

Back in 2004 I went back to Chicago to attend the 100th Anniversary celebration. It was quite the soiree! One of my closest friends and I decided that we'd go back to the annual reunion every five years. This was that year! So Chasen, Isaac and I headed up there (by car) on Thursday night. We drove half way (4 hours) and stayed the night in Mt. Vernon, IL. On the way we stopped for dinner at Lambert's Cafe -- home of the 'throwed' rolls. They literally throw delicious rolls to/at you.

"Where is MY roll, Mommy?" asks the big boy in his new, snazzy booster seat.

On Friday we made the rest of the drive. Isaac did really well, I must say. Thank the Lord!

This empty water bottle kept him occupied for quite a while!

Aaaah - in the hotel at last.

We stayed in the south suburbs because that is where the reunion was to be held on Saturday morning. Upon arriving I met up with my fave girl Martina, as she was staying there, too. She snapped this photo of the very happy Isaac.

You can see his first tooth (a little bit)! It's his right, front top tooth.

On Friday night more old friends who would not be able to come to the reunion were able to stop by our hotel. We had Giordano's pizza (the best pizza ever!) and I even drank half a martini. Look out, world! We all stayed up gabbing until 11:30 PM, which is NOT the way I usually approach the night before a long run.

By 6:58 AM on Saturday morning I hit the start button on my Garmin. I was running in Tinley Park, IL -- although I would ultimately pass through several 'burbs. John wanted me to run 13.1 miles continuously. Wha???? AND he wanted me to maintain a 12:20 pace. Double wha???? I set off saying "Let's do this thing."

For the first three miles I felt so heavy... like my legs just wouldn't move. I thought to myself "Well, even if you go slower than prescribed, maybe you can still just run the whole thing continuously." After three miles I took a gel, and the next thing I knew I was speeding up. It was just easier on me to try to run a little faster. I was to my halfway point before I knew it. I beat Martina (my pit crew) there! In fact I turned around and met her at about 7.12 miles or so, where she gave me a new G2, more gel and she showed me some awesome motivational signs that she had printed off for me. What a gal, that Martina!

When traveling, I like to do an out-and-back course so I do not get lost. Well, I have no idea how, but I managed to get off course -- and my cel phone had died. I asked a local runner that I spotted for the best way to get back where I was going, and we determined a public running trail would be the best way. That trail was hilly as all get-out. My heart rate was soaring, so I actually took a break. I finally exited the trail, and was still off-course. This time another runner pointed me in the right direction. Oh the kindness of runners!

I knew I was behind schedule for the morning, so I really had to hustle to finish up so I'd be able to get both Isaac and myself ready to go to the reunion. Martina had planned to meet me a ways away from the hotel and run me in... but as it turned out, I was too far away thanks to my missteps, so she just picked me up where I finished and we zoomed on back!

Here I am after finishing 13.1 miles.

John wanted me to run 12:20 miles, as I said before, which would have made the finish somewhere around 2:40 - 2:42. Here are my splits: 12:28, 12:41, 12:30, 12:07, 11:49, 11:52, 12:11, 11:43, 12:06, 11:46, 11:50, 12:04, 12:46, 1:00. That makes for a grand total of 2:39:01!!! Wow! The average was 12:09. Yay! Who knew?!?

I had to run the majority of it on concrete. OUCH. My hip flexors hurt for the rest of the day. Our hotel room only had a shower, so I had to take a "poor man's ice bath" by letting cold water pelt my sore legs. After that, I was off to the reunion!

Here we are, so of the ladies of the 90's!

Isaac is still under the weather, so I really dreaded the 8-hour drive home. All things considered, he did really well. The trick was always having one of us always sitting in the back seat with him. There's no better entertainment than Mommy and Daddy! Considering our stops, we made it home in 9 1/2 hours. That is such a long drive for a little one... so needless to say Isaac has been ecstatic to be able to lay down, crawl around, etc. Now I have a mountain of laundry to tackle. I feel like Kate Gosselin. *smirk*

This week will be extremely challenging, both running-wise and life-wise. Wish me luck!

My Strawberry Banana 18-Miler

2009-11-07T12:47:00.008-06:00

Oh what a run I had this morning! Whoo hoo! It was awesome. I woke at 5:05 AM, ate a good breakfast, then hit the start button at 6:02. And we're off!

I stashed a supply of Gatorade and banana halves behind the entrance sign to my subdivision. This was to be a "dress rehearsal" in terms of nutrition, so I finally got off my duff and got some gels. I really want to be a gel person. I mean, you can't get much more convenient than gels: easy to pack/carry, easy to discard/store on the run, no preparation time. So I hoped for the best. I purchased PowerBar Strawberry Banana Gel, which was all that was available at my local grocery store. YUM.

Today I was to use the 7:3 method (run 7 minutes, walk 3 minutes) for the first time. I ran west for 3 miles, then turned back towards the stash/neighborhood entrance. I took a gel at 3.65 miles. When I got to the stash I ate a banana half and replaced my Gatorade bottle. Then I headed east. When I got to 9 miles I took another gel. I got back to the stash at 12 miles and again had a banana half and replaced the Gatorade. Easy as pie! The miles just clicked away. I headed west once again and easily made it to 15 miles, which was gel time. I also stopped to use the restroom at a convenience store. I didn't have to go, but I figured it wouldn't be a bad idea. The stopping stiffened up my legs a bit, but I got home eventually. When I sent Chasen a text at mile 15 he responded "Almost home. Keep going or I'll get my spatula!" That is a reference to the movie "Run Fat Boy Run," which I find to be hilarious (and about running).

While I ran 18 miles in very good form, the half mile or so walk from the stash to my house nearly killed me. My poor legs!

Mile 1: 13:22
Mile 2: 12:59
Mile 3: 13:10
Mile 4: 13:02
Mile 5: 12:36
Mile 6: 12:39
Mile 7: 13:12
Mile 8: 12:46
Mile 9: 12:26
Mile 10: 13:50
Mile 11: 12:19
Mile 12: 12:22
Mile 13: 12:41
Mile 14: 13:27
Mile 15: 12:46
Mile 16: 12:59
Mile 17: 13:46
Mile 18: 12:28
Total: 3:52:58
Average: 12:57 per mile (plenty good to meet the 6-hr limit at Rocket City!!!)

Even though I felt like was eating every 2 seconds, I got hungry out there. I munched on gummy bears along the way, also. Hmm! Any thoughts?

We went to the Memphis Zoo yesterday. Here, Isaac shares Meagan's blanket.

What a crew! We could have a stroller fashion show.

How you doin'???

"I am wearing my Razorbacks jersey in honor of my Daddy."

Now I have some very, very big news to report. Brace yourselves... I have lost ALL of the baby weight! Now I have to attack the torn tendon chub...

Here is my nifty weight graph. I hope you can read it!

Have a great week everyone. I'm on cloud nine!

Broken Skin!

2009-11-05T21:18:00.004-06:00

BIG news around here! Isaac has some broken skin! Why is this good? Because it's in his mouth. At just before nine months old, my lil man is officially getting a tooth! I don't know how long the tooth-coming-in process will take, but we have some definite progress going on. Yay!

Family photo in front of our home.

Lil Punkin' sits on a pumpkin, helped by Daddy.

He can stand up really well now now (with a little help, of course).

Bright red flowers - yum! (yuck! not!)

I again was unable to do crack of dawn running today... but thanks to Chasen coming home a little early, I actually got to run outdoors. Hallelujah! Even though the sun was officially going down when I started, I stayed out there for 5 of my 7 miles before retreating to the treadmill.

I ran the first mile easy at 3:3 in 13:22. Fine and dandy! The next three were to be run solid (no walking) at 11:34. I put the pedal to the metal and brought home 11:31, 11:25 and 11:18. Go me! Then I had to walk for 4 minutes, during which I tended to a friend's dog. I am nothing if not a multi-tasker! After that I did one more mile at 3:3 before having to retreat to the treadmill for the final 2 miles. Done!

This weekend I have to run 18 miles. I have a plan!

Failure To Launch

2009-11-03T21:41:00.003-06:00

Not all transitions are easy, come to find out. In this case, it's not exactly my fault. Apparently babies do not automatically switch their internal clocks when daylight savings time comes around. Who knew?!?

I certainly intended to switch to early morning running this week. However, it has yet to happen. The reason for that is because Isaac is going to bed too darn early! Then he wakes up a few hours later, which he did not do previously. And poor ole mommy can't get back to sleep! So I shut off my alarm when it seems that I'd be operating on only 4 or 5 hours of sleep. Plus, Isaac is also waking up way too early. Aye aye aye!

[FYI even if Chasen is the one to go tend to Isaac, I still wake up and can't get back to sleep. It's a curse.]

Here we are enjoying a bonfire at our church's Fall Fest on Sunday evening.

On Monday I had 3 easy miles at 3:3 on the docket. Even though I didn't do it at the crack of dawn, I had it done before 10 AM. Good enough.

Mr. Autumn 2009 enjoys a few minutes in the front of our house.

Isaac developed the sniffles on Monday evening, and Chasen has a head cold. Now I have a boy who is fussy AND off his sleep schedule, plus a puny husband who should be resting (key word 'should') and helping with Isaac less. Calgon take me away! How am I going to complete these runs?

Today's 6-miler had to be done on the treadmill. Teddy Tready and I have become the best of friends. I know I should hit the road, but hey -- life happens. So, tonight I did 6 miles at 6:6, followed by five 20-second striders. Mission accomplished.

Let's hope Isaac and Chasen feel better soon! And thank goodness tomorrow is a rest day.

Transition Time

2009-10-31T21:12:00.006-05:00

Change is inevitable. Lots of change is happening in my life. First and foremost, my little Isaac is not so little anymore. He had to move up to his big boy car seat this week. [sigh] Next thing I know he'll be asking for the keys to the car!

(L) coming home from the hospital, (R) riding in style!

Last week I talked about feeling like I was on the edge of running burnout. I am now 6 weeks away from my marathon and have been training for 31 weeks. As such, the very understanding Marathon Advisor John gave me a light week. I had so much going on this week in my non-running life that I hardly noticed the downtime.

Secondary Mommy Group Halloween party - lil Elvis was a hit!

Primary Mommy Group Halloween party. Here we are with all our friends!

Hanging at a friend's house with yet more mommies. It was a busy week for babies.

With Daylight Savings Time happening in just a few hours, I have made a huge decision. It is time for me to return to my pre-Isaac ways and become a full-time early morning runner. I just have to do it. With putting it off until Chasen gets home, it just pushes our nighttime routine way back. By the time I get done running, if Chasen has not yet cooked dinner, we don't eat until like 8 PM. By the time that is done, plus cleanup, there's hardly any night left. We're putting Isaac to bed and the night is done. So I have to get my rear in bed early now and get up and get it done since the sun will be up earlier! I just KNOW that my days will be better this way. Plus, my marathon (plus all races) will be in the early morning. And I run better in the morning. So let's make this happen!

Another transition, since the big day is 6 weeks away, is working on my mental readiness. I have been reading "From Last to First" by Charlie Spedding. He is quite humorous! Well, he has a dry humor, which I really like. I am less than halfway through it, but I am now a believer in running "perfect" and carefully choosing my descriptives concerning my running. Must train my mind to perform!!!

Today was a 16-miler for me. I ran from my home to Hernando, Mississippi with my ultimate destination being The Velvet Cream, better known as The Dip. It is the best dairy bar in the history of Mississippi! I was to do the run at 6:6. When I was walking, I was quite speedy, I noticed. The runs were decent, also (at least until the very end). It was a hilly course; I climbed a total of 729 feet. The miles went like this: 13:39, 13:43, 14:06, 13:35, 13:16, 13:55, 13:37, 14:31, 14:15, 14:27, 14:00, 14:00, 14:46, 15:11, 14:27, 14:39. The total was 3:46:14 and the average was 14:09. I need 13:45 to make the 6-hr time limit at Rocket City.

Elvis is ready to trick-or-treat.

So long, October. Even though I had a head cold for about a week, I managed to run 137.2 miles in October. That may be a record for me. WOW!

Elliptical, Then and Now

2009-10-26T21:38:00.002-05:00

Because Marathon Advisor John was extremely busy at work over the weekend, all of Team Point Two got the blanket assignment today to do 60 minutes of cross training. We have since gotten this week's schedules (at least I have!)

I have to admit... I dreaded this. The bike hurts, we know that. The last time I used the elliptical, (in April, when Isaac was less than 2 months old) I thought I'd DIE. It hurt. Badly. I could only do about 10 minutes at a time. I decided to try it tonight. No matter how badly it would hurt, my "bicycle seat region" would be spared!

Get this: it was a piece of cake! 60 minutes, no problem. Yay me! No, yay Team Point Two training! I really, really have to thank John. I feel like he has brought me back to life! 47 days until Rocket City...

7 Weeks To Go

2009-10-25T20:23:00.009-05:00

I started the "Couch to 5K" program the day I got the go-ahead from my doctor 6 weeks after Isaac was born. That was THIRTY weeks ago. I have effectively been in training for 30 weeks. That is a long time. This week I began to feel the effects, I do believe. I just didn't want to run the latter half of this week. But I did.

Early Saturday morning we loaded up and drove to Oxford, Mississippi. Yay - family time! We were going to see Chasen's Arkansas Razorbacks play the Ole Miss Rebels.

Here are my two very cool guys. Isaac is wearing his new shoes!

Self photo taken while we waited on Chasen to go get concessions, pre-game.

Family photo. Isaac and I (tisk, tisk, Chasen!) are lathered in sunscreen.

The Rebels stomped the Razorbacks. Not good. After sitting in the blazing sun for several hours (Isaac was covered) we sleepily drove home. I was supposed to do a 3-miler. It didn't happen. Just 3 miles!!!! But I just didn't have it in me.

Isaac's new favorite toy: a box.

I composed an e-mail to John as I watched Isaac enjoy some crawling time this morning before church. I stated the whole 30 weeks of training bit, and how I felt that I was teetering on burnout. I have come a long way in 30 weeks! But I have more to go, of course, and the marathon is only 7 weeks away. Yikes! John always knows just what to say. He said "It's not burnout, just some easily fixed cumulative fatigue." Well, I don't know exactly how we'll fix it just yet, but I trust that we will. Onward and upward!

Post-church naptime: like mother, like son.

I finally got around to doing my 8-miler for the day. Just 8 - whoo hoo! Because of the whole "blazing sun" issue from yesterday, I opted to do this rather short longrun on my treadmill. Mile 1 was done at 2:1. Miles 2-7 were run sold at 12:30 (supposed to be 12:35, but Teddy Tready does 12:30 quite easily). Mile 8 was done at 2:1. My average was 12:37. Good enough!

Daddy, Mommy, Isaac. Awww!

Tomorrow I have to do 60 minutes of cross training. Oh Lordy... the bike will kill me, as will the elliptical. Stay tuned!

On Track

2009-10-20T22:48:00.002-05:00

I called in a favor with a neighbor/friend of mine for a little babysitting and was actually able to slip away to my local track during the light of day! I must say it was awesome.

"I didn't miss Mommy one bit. I was being loved on!"

First I did a one mile warmup at 2:1. Next I did 5 x 20 second striders. Fast times! Next came the crux of the workout: 8x 600 meters (0.375) in 4:30 (12:00/mile pace) with 600 meters recovery running in 5:15 (14:00/mile pace). As John said, "It's a continuous run with alternating paces. This run will help flush out your legs, as well as help you to pick up the pace in the race following a bad stretch." He was right! Even yesterday I had a minimal bit of soreness in my legs left over from Sunday's 20-miler (go figure). Not anymore!

I do love a good track workout. And it was nice to be able to run such a distance uninterrupted. Life is good!

Tough 20 Miler

2009-10-18T21:46:00.002-05:00

But, are there any EASY 20 milers? Not in my world. Not as of yet!

I wasn't able to do this run until this afternoon. It was sunny and cool. I aimed to run 20 miles east and have Chasen pick me up, as well as support me along the way.

I started out with a bang! I was using the 6:4 method, and I was having no trouble at all. Just past mile 8 the road ran out of wide shoulder, so I had to change my plan and run toward home. No biggie, I'd just finish the last 4 in my neighborhood.

At about mile 14 is where the wheels started to fall off. For the record, I ran the first 13.1 faster than last week's 13.1. But then I just started to fade. I was eating and hydrating well (but if I EVER see another Clif Bar, it'll be too soon). As Chasen put it, I'd been sick this whole past week PLUS had been taking care of sick Isaac, so cut myself some slack. Whatever - I rarely cut myself any slack. I needed to run strong, not peter out. But 20 miles is a long way!

I went into "survival mode" at about mile 16 or 17, regressing to the 1:1 method. But then I just had to walk. Covering the distance any way possible is better than quitting. Period.

By mile 18.5 it was completely dark and very cold, so I did the last 1.5 on the treadmill. Here's how it all went down.

Mile 1 - 12:41
Mile 2 - 12:54
Mile 3 - 13:27
Mile 4 -12:56
Mile 5 - 13:00
Mile 6 - 13:32
Mile 7 - 13:28
Mile 8 - 12:35
Mile 9 - 13:56
Mile 10 - 13:33
Mile 11 - 12:49
Mile 12 - 13:48
Mile 13 - 13:44
Mile 14 - 14:35
Mile 15 - 14:41
Mile 16 - 15:29
Mile 17 - 17:36
Mile 18 - 17:20
Mile 18.5 - 9:07
Total - 4:21:19
Average - 14:08 (NOT good enough for Rocket City, which has a 6-hr limit)

Treadmill - 1.5 miles in 33:28 (all walked)

John said this would be a test of my endurance, and he certainly was not kidding. This is my longest distance yet this season, so I guess I should not expect it to be easy. But a girl can dream!

Less "Sick and Tired"

2009-10-15T14:42:00.002-05:00

What a week! I had a sore throat before running 14 miles last Saturday. After doing so in too few layers, I became full-blown sick. Isaac was already sick with a cold, mind you. So it has been like a sick bay around here. Chasen, who thought he was coming down with it, narrowly escaped.

We took Isaac to the doc on Monday. His ears and chest were clear, so that put my mind at ease a bit. The poor little guy was horribly congested. I would take all of his sickness and then some to spare him of his misery... but I can not. So I just concentrate on taking meds of my own and trying to get better.

John decided to go easy on me this week. YAY! However, what seems easy it not always that way. I had to do a 65 minute bicycle workout (on my bike trainer) on Tuesday. Let me say OUCH. Loudly. OUCH! I have not been on the bike in about 6 months now (thanks to running 6 days per week) and I thought my "bicycle seat area" would be in awful shape afterward. Well, not directly afterward. But the next day I had some very sore muscles!

Isaac is making strides at being able to sit up. Not quite there yet...

Wednesday was a rest day - hallelujah. I have been trying to get as much rest as possible, as in napping every chance I get. Must get well!

Today I was to do a track workout. Here's the deal. The sun does not rise until just before 7 AM, and that is the time I need to be back here at home. Scratch early mornings. During the day I do not have childcare. Scratch daytime. The sun sets at about 6:30 PM. Chasen generally gets home just a little bit before that. Scratch nighttime. It's a pickle alright! Now, yes, I used to go out in the pitch black quite a lot back in the day. But I am a MUCH more cautious person now. MUCH. I have Isaac to think about. So I have to be safe. So I did the workout on the treadmill in the warm garage as Isaac watched, sleeping through most of it (Isaac, not me, LOL).

I am happy to report that after 3.5 days of meds Isaac seems to be doing better. I do try to get him to take more naps, but that is easier said than done.

I am just hilarious, it seems.

This weekend I am supposed to run *gulp* 20 miles. I know I can do it. (Did you hear that, John?) And I will be implementing a new on-the-run fuel system. Report to follow!

Worldwide Festival of Races

2009-10-10T16:02:00.010-05:00

Today I ran the half marathon for the Worldwide Festival of Races. But I'll get to that...

Isaac says "Hold your horses! Mommy has to post a zillion photos of me first."

Mid-week we visited Cedar Hill Farm in nearby Hernando, Mississippi with some friends. It is a full service kid haven complete with a pumpkin patch.

Must stay hydrated when strolling through the petting zoo.

Isaac slept through his first ever hayride. It's a tough life...

And his first ever pumpkin patch...

Look! A headless baby! LOL

My tired boy was not up to posing. Good thing I wore my running shoes. We went all over creation.

Tired little pumpkin.

This was a tough week because Isaac has been suffering from his first illness - a cold. It came on Thursday (post-farm). As a result I suffered from my first episode of projectile baby vomit. NOT FUN. Not sure if it was 'cold' related (I suspect the nasal medicine), but it wasn't pretty, regardless. Oh the joys of motherhood!

Looks really sick, doesn't he?

So I have been drained, both physically and emotionally. It's tough having your little one suffer. I struggled through some runs this week, just thankful to check them off the list.

I wasn't sure how today's 14-miler would go (13.1 plus an extra .9 afterward). I again faced pre-longrun insomnia, but I did get about 5 hours, which is better than nothing. I headed out just after 6 AM and it was FREEZING. Mind you, I have run through a sauna for months now. I had forgotten how to dress for this. I should have added a jacket and gloves. Lesson learned.

I selected an out-and-back course. I was frozen solid for about the first 2 miles. I did the whole run using the 1:1 method that I ADORE. Before I knew it I was near my "turn off the main drag" point. Then I was at 6.55 miles. I stopped to record that time on my cel phone in the hopes that I could make a negative split happen. Then I proceeded to mile 7. Just as I turned around Chasen called. He and Isaac were on their way.

Chasen took ONE photo, so I had to post it. Beggars can't be choosers.

I hoped to maintain my energy level on the way home. It was awfully windy and did not warm up a single bit. I only saw Chasen once or twice more. I knew by my mile splits that I was gaining speed. Must get home to warmth!

First half - 1:29:34. Second half - 1:25:27. Whoo hoo! I kicked that race in the rear! A 4 minute negative split!

Mile 1 - 13:49

Mile 2 - 13:49

Mile 3 - 13:35

Mile 4 - 13:28

Mile 5 - 13:45

Mile 6 - 13:37

Mile 7 - 13:27

Mile 8 - 13:01

Mile 9 - 13:13

Mile 10 - 12:55

Mile 11 - 12:52

Mile 13 - 13:01

Mile 13.1 - 00:56

Total - 2:55:01

Average - 13:22

I am so surprised and so very pleased. I was aiming for 3 hours! Yay me! Yay Team Point Two! Nine weeks until Rocket City. I just might make it!

Semi-Sweet Sixteen

2009-10-03T20:44:00.002-05:00

This video is for Donna from Team Point Two. Her marathon (Portland) is tomorrow!

Today was to be my 16-miler. Wouldn't you know I woke up at 12:30 AM and couldn't get back to sleep until past 4 AM? Grrrr! I hate that. So I turned off my alarm and resolved to do the run mid-day. I have just about decided to have a glass of wine on the evenings before long runs to knock me out!

My options were either the 11 AM - 3 PM time slot or 3 PM - 7 PM time slot. I opted for the latter because today we wanted to go to a Greek food festival in nearby Bartlett, Tennessee. I was definitely "well fueled" for my afternoon run.

I am here to tell you that it was hot (80 degrees) and very windy - always at my front. Ugh. I ran about 5 miles away from home and then headed back. I somehow got back to my neighborhood with about 9 miles on the Garmin. I went back home momentarily for a pit stop and some Ibuprofen. A girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do!

FYI, I always write my Marathon Advisor an e-mail after my long run. At this point in today's run it would have gone something like this:

Dear John,

Are you trying to kill me? This is just not working. I am so slow. This is my longest distance in 22 months. I am never going to make it.

Sorry,
Susan

I decided at this point to do the remaining 7 miles in my neighborhood. They would have been bad anywhere; might as well be close to home. Amazingly, the temperature dropped at least 10 degrees. Now we're talking! I seemed to actually be getting faster (still doing the 1:1 method) although my splits do not really show any improvement.

I dreaded the fact that the last 3 miles were to be run solid, and at a 12:48 pace. Yikes! But, as I said, I seemed to be gaining speed as the temp dropped. It had to be approaching 60 degrees by now. Hallelujah.

At about mile 12 my fabulous neighbor (and friend) Nelms drove by. I demanded that she go and fill my G2 bottle with ice water. HA! That's what friends are for. After that refill it was just nearly time to do the 3 solid miles. Here's how the first 13 went down at a 1:1 ratio:

Mile 1 - 13:53
Mile 2 - 13:57
Mile 3 - 13:57
Mile 4 - 14:05
Mile 5 - 14:15
Mile 6 - 14:45
Mile 7 - 14:33
Mile 8 - 14:03
Mile 9 - 14:23
Mile 10 - 14:55
Mile 11 - 14:29
Mile 12 - 14:15
Mile 13 - 14:03
Average +/- 14:14

Then I started hoofing it around the 'hood and it felt GREAT. The last three were just awesome (and faster than 12:48!)

Mile 14 - 12:29
Mile 15 - 12:35
Mile 16 - 12:41
Average +/- 12:35

Total - 3:43:28
Average - 13:58

On the all, I am really glad I stuck it out (not that I really had any other choice, mind you). This could be my amended e-mail:

Dear John,

You know what, you just might know what you're talking about after all! Bring on Rocket City!

Your Adoring Student,
Susan

Tomorrow I have a lovely 2-miler on the docket. Yesssss!

One-Armed Running

2009-10-01T18:52:00.005-05:00

Today was actually a dream come true: the weather was COOL and I got to run with Isaac! We headed out after he and I ate breakfast. I had to bundle him up, as these close-ups show.

This is nearly his only warm outfit. Time for warm big boy clothes!

The racing stroller is in the right side of this photo. I opted for the "travel system" stroller because it has storage compartments and cup holders.

We're all ready to go! The camera was set on top of the trash can. Not good!

I was to do 3 miles at 1:1. What a joy! And the weather - wow - 60ish degrees and windy. Heaven! Isaac and I stayed in the neighborhood, of course. I found that I was going quite fast while I was doing the running part. So fast, in fact, that my hamstrings are sore now that it is said and done. Go me! I averaged 12:58 per mile, which is about as fast as I can go doing solid running (how is that?)

Isaac started to fuss at 2.21 miles. Grrr! It came and went after a little soothing from Mommy. I had to finish, by golly!

It really was a dream come true. All summer I wanted to be able to get out there with him, but it was just disgustingly hot. Hopefully autumn will hold great things for us!

Speedwork

2009-09-29T21:41:00.002-05:00

I skipped my easy 3-miler yesterday. It was the first time I have skipped a run in about 6 weeks. I did it because my "bum foot" was giving me fits. That darn peroneal tendon just plagues me sometimes, point blank. After Saturday's 8-miler it started, and it continued through Sunday and Monday. So no running. As of today it was great! So once Chasen got home, I hit the pavement. I was supposed to be doing a track workout today, but with it getting so dark so much sooner now, I just feel better by staying in my 'hood. Plus, the weather was actually gorgeous and dry; 70 degrees or less!

What's up, home slice?

I first did a 1.5 mile warm-up non-stop. After that I was supposed to do three miles at 11:28 each. Yikes! I had to hustle. The first mile was done in 11:25. Whoo hoo! The second, which I thought would be slower, was 11:06. Um, did I just do that? The third was 11:11. Look out, world! Thank you, Mother Nature.

Then... the ole foot started to hurt. So I walked the last bit, which was meant to be a 1.5 mile cooldown. We can't have it all, I don't guess.

This weekend I have to do 16 miles. Holy moly! My mind and heart are ready; I just hope the foot follows suit.