Marathon Mommy

Carlsbad Half Marathon

2012-01-25T19:26:00.000-08:00

I ran the Carlsbad Half Marathon (Calif.) last weekend. It was so much fun and definitely a favorite race event for me! I've run the Half twice and the Marathon once - both are incredible races. It's my hometown so I know the course like the back of my hand and having my family and friends along the course was awesome. It's an out and back along Pacific Coast Highway so I got to see my cheerleaders twice! Every other runner I know was also out there running today -- from my super speedy brother-in-law (he's a 24 year old Marine who ran the half in 1:30) to friends who were running their very first event EVER. It was an awesome day. The weather was perfect and you just can't beat Carlsbad. Not a PR for me in the Half Marathon distance, but a faster time for this event which always feels great. My race report is brief but on my blog if you're curious. I've been slacking on that site but hope to have my race report for CIM from last month on there soon, too.
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Monday Miles: 1/16 - 1/22

2012-01-23T12:39:00.000-08:00

How was your week? Would love to hear how it was and what you have planned for next week!

Monday Miles: 1/9 - 1/15

2012-01-16T08:21:00.000-08:00

How'd you do? Did the Olympic Marathon Trials yesterday encourage you to get out and run?

Olympic Marathon Trials

2012-01-13T15:00:00.000-08:00

The Marathon Trials for the 2012 Summer Olympics are tomorrow in Houston. NBC has 2 hours of coverage in the afternoon. I just set my DVR! I'm hoping these fast ladies will motivate me to run a marathon this year. It's been three years since I last ran one, and I'm feeling the urge.

Amy

running blogs

2012-01-11T20:47:00.000-08:00

I'm curious what some of your favorite running blogs are...?? I don't read any regularly but have gone to SkinnyRunner many times to read her race reviews since most are in the area and/or along the west coast. Which one(s) do you read, if any?

Monday Miles: 1/2 - 1/8

2012-01-09T21:40:00.000-08:00

First week back for most of us with kids in school. Have you gotten back into your daily routine? How about your running??

NYC Marathon: price to play keeps rising

2012-01-03T19:57:00.000-08:00

Yesterday the NYC Marathon opened registration. Of course, they have a lottery system, so one isn't automatically "in" just for registering. I was tempted but the price made me hesitate and then ultimately decide against it. The non-refundable registration fee is $11 and is required for all applicants. NYRR members will pay $216, non-members in the US will pay $255 and and non-US residents will pay $347 to toe the line at NYC. If I got in, my cost would be $266 plus any fees, plus airfare (from the west coast), plus hotel. That becomes a price tag I simply cannot justify for myself.

What do you think of the price to run NY? Have you run it before? Worth this cost? Are you entering the lottery this year?

2012 Running Goals

2012-01-03T19:49:00.000-08:00

What are your running goals for 2012? Do you have races lined up already? Let's hear what you have planned in the coming year!

Monday Miles: 12/26 to New Year's Day!

2012-01-02T14:27:00.000-08:00

Show 'em if you've got 'em...

Seriously, we're two days into 2012. Did you run something special to mark the new year? Have you run yet this year??

I'm back!

2011-12-30T20:11:00.000-08:00

It has been way too long since I last posted here at Marathon Mommies. So much has happened, and through it all I was beginning to wonder if I was still really a "runner".

We moved to Austin, Texas last summer and it took me a while to find my running groove and some ladies who could stand running with me. I miss my #1 running buddy and partner in crime in starting this blog: Kelly! ... also known as "M&M" because to me, she will always be the original "Marathon Mommy". She is the one who casually put out there, "Hey, do you want to run a marathon with me?" and not having any idea what I was getting into said, "Sure!" 6 years,6 marathons, and 3 babies later we are better friends than ever. No, we are not exactly alike. We have always joked that we are like opposites that attract, like "ying" and "yang". Our runs/therapy sessions was where the universe came into balance and the world all started to make sense.

And then I had to go and move away.

Now that we don't live near each other (we even lived next door to each other for a year and it was so fun!) I miss our runs/therapy sessions. After moving it really hit me how important the social aspect of running is for me. I simply do NOT like to run alone. When I don't have any other option, I even try to get my kids to ride their bikes with me while I run. They're not fans. :(

I have to say, it has not been easy to find the right "fit" for running buddies in my new area. There doesn't seem to be the same kind of running "culture" that there was in Portland. I blame the weather. It takes a woman with a determination of steel to get out and run on summer days like they had here a few months ago. Even early morning runs were stifling. So finding someone to run with has been hard. Long story short... I have started a beginning running group with a few ladies from my church. It is mostly slow-going, but I love to see new runners finding their legs and will to keep going when it is tough. And through some friends... of friends... of friends.... I have started running a few days a week with a small group of ladies who like to pick up the pace and run long miles on Saturdays. I do love my long Saturday runs!

I will be running two 1/2 marathons in March, and I would LOOOVE it if anyone out there who reads Marathon Mommies would like to join me! First, I will be running the Rock 'n Roll half in Washington DC on March 17 (Thanks to my brother-in-law who wanted to run it and paid for my entry so I would come run with him. I love family!) I will then run the ZOOMA 1/2 Marathon on March 31. There is also a 5K with that half, if you'd rather do that. Please come run with me! There is even talk that Kelly/M&M will be joining me for that one. I sure hope it works out and she is able to come run!

As luck would have it, I have been chosen to be a "Zooma Ambassador" for this 1/2 marathon in Austin, TX. This means I will be leading some training runs in my area the 12 weeks leading up to the race for ladies who would like to run ZOOMA on March 31. And here is one of the best parts about being an "ambassador" for this race: I get to share a discount code for the race entry!

You can register for the ZOOMA Texas Women’s Half Marathon & 5K at Hyatt Lost Pines on March 31st and receive $10 off the half or $5 off the 5K by using code TEXAMB12 when you register online!

I will also be giving away some of the sponsor's shirts and whatnot here on Marathon Mommies in the coming weeks. So fun!

And soooooo.... I'M BACK! And it feels so great to feel like a "runner" again. And it feels even better to be helping other women feel like "runners", too!

P.S. If you are in the Austin area... ZOOMA Texas Training Kick Off is at Luke’s Locker on January 7th at 8:30am. Come and join the ZOOMA team for a fun gathering to kick off our training season! Grab sweet swag from ZOOMA and their sponsors and run an easy 3 mile run!

What did you run? 12/19 - 12/25

2011-12-29T21:34:00.000-08:00

Another week, another late post... How have your runs been over the holidays?

What did you run? 12/12 - 12/18

2011-12-20T20:22:00.000-08:00

Oops! I forgot to post this yesterday. Did you get in some good runs last week?

What did you run? 12/5 - 12/11

2011-12-12T15:39:00.000-08:00

How'd you do this last week? Are you keeping track of your 2011 mileage? How's that going??

What did you run? 11/28 - 12/4

2011-12-05T06:20:00.000-08:00

Monday Miles! How was your first week during this wonderful holiday season?

What did you run? 11/21 - 11/27

2011-11-28T21:51:00.000-08:00

My holiday week was sure busy. I'm hoping to recover by mid-week so I can prepare myself mentally and physically for this weekend's marathon. How was your week of running? We had family in town staying with us so my runs were squeezed in here and there whenever I could.

What did you run? 11/14 - 11/20

2011-11-21T14:42:00.001-08:00

How'd you fare this full week before Thanksgiving? Will you be starting the holiday with a fun run??

new treadmill record: 22 miles!

2011-11-14T07:32:00.000-08:00

Treadmills get a bad rap. I personally don't mind them but have always had limits to how far I can run on one. My previous treadmill record was 10 miles and that was on the gym's treadmill where there are visual distractions. At home, my treadmill record was 6 miles. Last weekend's run was cancelled due to a storm that brought heavy rains and gusty winds so what was I to do? Run on a treadmill. It was my longest run of this marathon training -- 22 miles! Weekend plans were set in stone so I had to do my regular Saturday long run on Friday. With two young children and a spouse who was traveling, I decided to wake early and get in some miles before the kids woke. I ran 10.5 miles before my kids woke, took a 15 minute break to get them set up with some breakfast and a movie (they thought they were the luckiest kids EVER), and ran another 7.5 miles to get in 18. The kids had a birthday party to attend so I showered and wore compression socks for the 3.5 hour (standing!) party. When I got home, I ran another 4 miles to get my 22 miles done. I didn't watch t.v. but did listen to music for most of the miles. And the miles were run at a pretty slow pace because of the distance. I don't recommend running that much on a treadmill, but as moms who run we know that sometimes you just have to do whatever possible to get those runs in. I'm very much looking forward to a run outdoors later this morning!!

What did you run? 11/7 - 11/13

2011-11-14T07:14:00.000-08:00

How was your week?

As we're heading into the holidays, running is becoming more a priority for me. Every year I swear our family is going to simplify our holidays but it never happens. There is always travel, performances/shows, special outings with friends, holiday parties... I'm exhausted just thinking about it! How do the holidays change your running routine?

What did you run? 10/31 - 11/6

2011-11-07T12:19:00.000-08:00

Tell us how you did last week! Were you able to watch the NYC Marathon yesterday? What an amazing race for both the women and men! I loved every minute of the highlights show. Awesome stuff.

My Fitness Pal

2011-11-06T21:10:00.001-08:00

I was just introduced to this app and I love it so far! It is just what I need right now to motivate me. Since I am not on facebook, it is fulfilling that little hole. I thought I would check here and see if anyone else is on there? If you are, my user name is kelmarker. Check it out if you haven't seen it!

myfitnesspal.com

New York, New York

2011-11-06T12:12:00.000-08:00

Have you been watching the NYC Marathon this morning?? I'm holding off since I set the DVR to record the highlights show which is happening as I type. Tonight after my kids go to bed I'll watch it with my husband. I love this show. Everything about these highlight shows (Ironman, too) is inspiring! It's also really, really got me wanting to run this race.

Today a friend told me about a contest NYC has and for 2012 they'll be giving away 43 free entries. Can you imagine!? It gives me goosebumps just to think of it! I've put my name in and my husband's. If you want to add your name, act quickly because they'll be announcing winners on November 9th. Yes, in just a few short days YOU could be receiving notification via e-mail that your name is on the list of 43 printed in the New York Times. http://run2012.ingnycmarathon.org/

Do you live in the Austin area?

2011-11-03T17:26:00.000-07:00

I am going to run the ZOOMA half marathon on March 31.
I would like to start a training group for anyone who would like to join me! There is also a 5K (3.1 miles) that day, so if there is enough interest, I would hold separate training sessions for people who want to do a "Couch to 5K" training program. I have a lot of experience in training for races, but it is so much more fun to train with others! It would be a 2-3 days per week commitment. Come on, you know you want to! Please email me if you want to join in. suziepetunia@gmail.com And pass this along to any friends in the Austin area who may be interested. Thanks, and Happy Running!

(Thank you, Spencer at Oscarson Photography for the great pics of me with my running buddies in Oregon!)

What did you run? 10/24 - 10/30

2011-10-31T07:26:00.000-07:00

Anyone run any Halloween-inspired races or dress up to run this year? I'm such a sweaty mess I never do, but it sure looks like fun!

Running with babies.

2011-10-28T22:11:00.000-07:00

I just had my third baby 7 weeks ago. Even though I have run with babies before I have always waited until they are 6 months, like recommended. This time I am itching to get out NOW. Has anyone tried running with an infant , in a jogging stroller of course, and if so, how do you make sure that it is safe for the baby? Do you use a special type of stroller or any attachments, accessories, etc?

Thanks!
Sarai

What did you run? 10/17 - 10/23

2011-10-24T07:14:00.000-07:00

Last week's miles? Any new race registrations to look forward to??

Are you all running in the dark o'clock morning hours, too? It has suddenly become very dark at even 6am and we've had thick fog along the coast for the last week. The conditions are not great for (safe!) running. This morning I headed to the gym to run on the treadmill, just to be safe.

What did you run? 10/10 - 10/16

2011-10-17T07:17:00.001-07:00

Monday miles! How'd you do??

funny photo

2011-10-14T20:14:00.000-07:00

photo: Amanda LeDune Rouse

my morning moon

2011-10-12T20:33:00.000-07:00

It isn't always easy to wake before 5am to meet up with my running pals to run in the dark... but coming home after an early morning run to this beautiful moon over the ocean? Totally worth it!

when you need a new running group...

2011-10-10T20:31:00.000-07:00

My family is moving sometime next year. We will be leaving our small, safe, family-oriented, quiet beach town and moving to Los Angeles. It's months away, but I'm already a little nervous about it. I have all kinds of concerns but given that this is a running forum, let's address my running concerns. WHO WILL I RUN WITH?? Will I find a running group I love as much as the one I'm in now? Will I find friendly people with similar paces that can run when I can run? Will it be safe to be outside running around the streets of LA, a city I'm very unfamiliar with...?  Don't get me wrong: I'm very excited about the move. I'm just sad to be leaving the special friendships we've made behind and I'll miss my running group and our regular 3x a week runs.

When I moved to California 3-1/2 years ago, I searched high and low for someone to run with me.  A few friends were agreeable to joining me for a few runs, but it was never a group until one friend asked me to join a group she had just joined. Prior to moving I ran with a local running group in Portland and participated in a marathon training program up there.  I also ran with a few girls from my neighborhood. I don't know why I'm suddenly feeling all this doubt about finding another group to run with. I already know to check local running stores, online at sites like Meetup, maybe chat with someone also running on the treadmills at the gym...?

Do you run with a group? How did you find your group? Have you relocated to an entirely new city and had to find a new group? Are any of you in LA or know someone who is??

running while pregnant

2011-10-10T20:16:00.000-07:00

You may have heard about 27 year old Amber Miller, the woman who ran the Chicago Marathon yesterday -- nearly 39 weeks into her second pregnancy -- and then hours later delivered a healthy baby girl. Amazing. Incredible! Some say her actions were selfish and she should not have run (walk) the marathon because of the potential risks to her unborn child. I disagree. I think a pregnant woman understands her body better than anyone and only she understands what her limitations are. What do you think? Did you run during pregnancy?

I did not run at all with my first pregnancy. I ran prior to conceiving but pretty much stopped all physical activity when I learned I was pregnant. With my second, I ran until about 14 weeks -- when I began doing more walking than running. My "running" pace had slowed to a fast walk and even three miles felt like too much (and took too much time!). That's when I threw in the towel. I can't imagine running through a pregnancy myself, but I think it's awesome when another woman can -- and does!

A running pal locally ran the Chicago Marathon yesterday. She passed Amber out on the course and said she was amazed that this woman was out there running. The story is on every website, but here's a link if you need one. Chicago Marathon

What did you run? 10/3 - 10/9

2011-10-10T12:53:00.000-07:00

How was your week of running? I lucked out with a fully comped registration for the Long Beach Half Marathon yesterday. I learned this last Tuesday so I had a few days to change my running schedule around and prepare for the race. I had considered running it a few months ago, but decided against it because of location. It's about a 90 minute drive from my house which seemed a little too far. But with a free bib in hand, I was willing to bear the traffic on race day -- it took almost a full two hours to get there. I was pleasantly surprised by this race. I'll post a report but if you're looking for a southern California race next October, I'd consider this one. It was a top notch event.

St George Marathon 2011-We were there!

2011-10-08T21:48:00.000-07:00

Character shines when things don't go according to plan. This is dedicated to my sister Katie, who ran her first marathon last Saturday and fought to the finish even when it was tough :)

Pocatello Marathon

2011-10-05T12:28:00.000-07:00

Speaking of race pics...here you go.

I finally had a fantastic race this fall.

I've been through injuries, pregnancies, terrible weather conditions...you name it.

I showed up without a watch, on accident, ran without anything but the feel of my legs and the love of the freedom of the race. It worked in my favor.

St. George last weekend was not so much the same case, but alas "Glory" moments are few and far between in this strange love and addiction of running.

A few more pics here: http://stevens9history.blogspot.com/

Are you on Facebook?

2011-10-04T12:57:00.000-07:00

Joe Taricani over at The Marathon Show is giving away two free entries into the Long Beach Marathon events this weekend. One is for the full 26.2 mile marathon and the other is for the half marathon. I WANT TO RUN THE HALF MARATHON!! If you are on Facebook, please consider going to his page ("The Marathon Show") and "LIKE" my photo. It's the same one as pictured above. Thank you!!

I know, I'm completely shameless...

[Note: The contest closes today at 4:30pm PST.]

Calling Austin Runners! (and our 1001 posts)

2011-10-03T07:44:00.000-07:00

Hello Marathon Mommies!! We need to use our power of networks and help Suziepetunia find a new running buddy (or two!) If you need to know more about why she is such an awesome running partner, read this post. We ran together for 5 more years after that post and made many, many more memories! She is one of my favorite people in the whole world and Texas is lucky to have her. Please leave a comment saying why Suziepetunia is awesome and/or if you might know someone she can run with. Thanks for your help and thanks for being part of Marathon Mommies! Let's have a great fall/winter running cycle!

What did you run? 9/26 - 10/2

2011-10-03T07:25:00.000-07:00

How'd you do!? Lots of folks are preparing for Fall marathons. Are you? Was it this past weekend? Let's hear some race reports!

roll call: September mileage

2011-10-01T18:36:00.000-07:00

I love the end of the month recap. How'd you do? Are you on target for the year??

What a difference a year makes...

2011-10-01T08:09:00.000-07:00

One year ago I was in the best shape of my life! I had a fantastic training cycle, without any injuries. I felt great going into the St. George Marathon. I felt confident that if all went well, I could finally reach my dream of qualifying for Boston. Unfortunately, the weather and the altitude affected me more than I expected and I watched my dream slip through my fingers. I still had a memorable race and my husband, Jeff joined me for the last 5 miles, which was great.

During my run this morning, I reflected on where I have been since then:

I have moved twice! (in the same city)

Decided to start trying to have another baby. (still no luck yet)

Watched my best friend(and running partner) move away.

Earned my Personal Trainer Certification.

Been frustrated with my weight as I try to figure out how to exercise and burn enough calories while NOT training for a marathon.

Realized it is NOT the right time for me to be a Personal Trainer.

Gone to New York for a week with my husband and ran a 10K through Central Park.

Ran my first summer in 9 year without training for a race.

Learned that I do much better with a race to train for.

So, here I am and I am proud of myself for running 9 miles this morning!! Woo hoo! It reminded me how much I love running, and how much I connect myself with being a runner. I am grateful for running partners who have been patient with me as I figure out my place as a runner and/or nonrunner. I am recommitting to running, even if I can't commit to a race right now.

Good luck to all those St. George runners this morning. I hope you are having the time of your lives. (and I hope the weather is better than it was last year!)

What did you run? 9/19 - 9/25

2011-09-26T07:23:00.000-07:00

Tell us how you did last week! Did you meet your weekly goal? Try a new route? Or are you knee deep in the trenches of marathon training? I love this Fall running weather!

the Lemon Run ~ a 4.6 mile fundraiser

2011-09-25T20:43:00.000-07:00

This morning I had the great honor of participating in this small but really good running event -- Max's Ring of Fire & Alex's Lemonade Stand's LEMON RUN. It was a 4.6 mile run around a San Diego County lake on a paved bike path. The fundraiser benefits two organizations that raise money for pediatric cancer research. A friend of mine is involved in one of them which is how I learned of this event. The route was scenic since it followed the lake perimeter and mostly flat. The course was the most supported course I have ever seen in a running event. The 4.6 mile distance was the longest event so they only had water along the course, but they had water every mile of the course. !!! Registration included a short sleeved t-shirt, a few sponsor donations and a timed bib -- all for $30. The finish line had more water, lemonade, bagels, bananas, oranges and a couple of Larabar varities. This is better than some of the (much) larger events I've participated in. And there were no crowds because it was such a small event. I loved this event. I loved participating in this event. I loved making an additional donation for such an important cause. I loved participating with friends who aren't runners. I loved seeing all the happy, fun people out on the course today. And I loved that, no matter how small my contribution was, I was there and made a difference.

I ran this event with my friend who just signed herself up for a half marathon in January. She's not a runner and when I asked this morning what pace she would run, she wasn't sure but estimated a time she was comfortable with. We finished today almost a full minute faster per mile than she thought she could do. I chatted the whole time to keep her distracted. She was so proud of herself and finished feeling really good. I love that. I stopped steps before crossing the finish line so she could finish before me today. She loved that.

What did you run? 9/12 - 9/18

2011-09-19T12:52:00.000-07:00

How does the school year change up your running routine, if at all? My kids aren't into weekend sports just yet, but a girl I run with spends all weekend, every weekend, at soccer games with her two kids. She manages to run some of the longer Saturday morning run with us, but always cuts it short or starts extra early or moves the run to a different day. Motherhood is a constant juggling act, isn't it?

setting an example

2011-09-14T08:43:00.000-07:00

There's no question that by exercising and talking to our children about healthy living we are setting an example for them to follow. Through our activities, they are learning the importance of keeping our bodies and minds healthy on the outside as well as the inside. Did your parents exercise? Did they eat healthy? How did your parents instill the importance of a healthy mind and body with you?

My dad passed away when we were very young so it was my mother who led by example. She wasn't and still isn't athletic, but she could walk for hours. During the wee hours of the morning she and two other women from our street would meet and walk. They would walk for about an hour all over our town. I understood even then that this was an important time for her. In the home, my mom would often lay on the floor while we watched television. She would stretch and do various exercises. I didn't know that's what she was doing, but looking back it was very clear that she was doing that. She also owned one of these door knob exercisers (pictured above). I remember my brothers and I trying to figure it out but ending up all tangled instead. And, of course, there were many aerobic classes throughout the years for my mom, too...

As for healthy eating, we ate our share of junk foods and junk dinners as teenagers. But as a young child I remember balanced meals that included vegetables and fruit. It seems that those often came out of a can, but she made great attempts at giving us well-rounded diets.
Today, my mom is an active and vibrant 60 year old. This last weekend she walked a 10K in Portland. Every year she walks a few of these local races and she recently joined her company's gym again. During the summer months she walks outside during her lunch break, but with the winter months ahead she's already planning her noon time walks indoors.

Because everyone's doing it...

2011-09-13T13:37:00.000-07:00

I don't know why I'm so fascinated by celebrity runners. I mean, they are regular people with somewhat regular lives when they aren't acting. Of course they probably run and do other things we do like eat, shower, sleep, etc. Yet when I hear a celebrity has run a race I immediately check to see what their finish time was... all because I want to compare their finish time with my own. It's so silly and absolutely ridiculous but I'm intrigued. I also love that they are publicizing this awesome sport because you know out there Joe Schmoe is thinking "Wow! If xxxx can do it, then maybe I can do it too."

Recent celebrities out running in races across the country? Apolo Ohno, world champion short-track speedskater, ran a 1:40 at the Chicago Half Marathon. Sarah Palin recenly ran a 1:46 half marathon. Katie Holmes finished the NYC Marathon in under 5.5 hours.

celebrities at NYC
Famous Celebrity Marathon Runners

What did you run? 9/5 - 9/11

2011-09-12T07:41:00.000-07:00

Did you do a special run yesterday for the 9/11 anniversary? Did you get in the miles you needed to this last week?

What did you run? 8/29 - 9/4

2011-09-05T21:21:00.000-07:00

Labor Day through me for a loop. It feels like Sunday! Were you able to run today? Get in extra mileage since it's a holiday??

roll call: August mileage

2011-09-01T07:38:00.000-07:00

Oops! I forgot to post monthly mileage for June and July. Are you keeping track? How did your summer pan out? I know summer isn't quite over yet, but it feels like it with the kids back in school this week, leaves are beginning to turn colors around here and there's that nip in the air early and late in the evening. Of course, there's also all the great fall races that we all love to do! What's on your calendar for the fall??

Heel Spur??

2011-08-30T16:26:00.000-07:00

Hey Marathon Mommies,

I'm hoping someone out there has experienced a heel spur (well, not really, because it's a pain) and can tell me what to do to get it to heal! My left foot has something like plantar fasciitis, but not quite, so I've self-diagnosed it as a heel spur. It used to be just a twinge of pain and discomfort occasionally, but now I can hardly run and often have pain from walking. I am hoping I don't have to take a few months off from running because I am just getting faster and fitter after having a baby. I would like to do a few fall races. Any advice would be appreciated!

Amy

What did you run? 8/22 - 8/28

2011-08-29T19:08:00.000-07:00

Did you run!? How'd you do this past week? I turned 40. Whoo-hoo for new age division!!

Running Again

2011-08-27T05:45:00.000-07:00

My first run in almost 2 months.

I had my Garmin GPS running watch on, my iPod clipped to my running shorts, and my running shoes on. I felt like I was meeting with an old friend.

I decided to take it really easy, since I wasn't sure how I would feel. I have been teaching my weekly class at the Y, as well as trying Muscle Pump with really light weights. I would usually go home, shower, and take a long nap out of sheer exhaustion. I just haven't had the energy to try running yet. But I have been feeling much better this last week.

The 12-minute pace I kept felt very slow when I looked at my watch. But it felt really good for my body, so I stayed there.

A 60+ year old man passed me on the rail trail. He looked at me, recognized me from the Y, and yelled, "Well, this is a first for me!"

I just swallowed my pride and yelled back, "You're looking strong! Keep it up!"

Either way, those 3 miles still felt pretty amazing. It is good to be back!

Did your pace slow down significantly with pregnancy? Like 3-4 minutes per mile?

pace leaders

2011-08-26T12:25:00.000-07:00

this is the pace leader I'll be following at CIM

Curiuos: Have you been a pace leader for a race? What was your experience like? Would you do it again? How did you get involved? What did you have to carry? What group did you pace and what is your PR for that same distance?
I think I need to change up my running a little and pacing is something I've always thought would be fun. Runners are so inspiring and fun -- esp. those in the pace groups that I'd be pacing. I've inquired for a local race coming up in a few months. I haven't heard yet but would love to know what others have experienced being a pacer.

trail running and ultramarathons

2011-08-26T12:19:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I was listening to a podcast from the Marathon Show (with Joe Taricani -- I love that show!) during which Joe was interviewing someone who runs ultramarathons. The runner's enthusiasm for the sport inspired me to look into them for myself. Later in the day I was looking at the California International Marathon's website for training plans and pace leaders information. I noticed the pacers all have done many marathons, but they all were even more into ultramarathons. It's quite impressive to see so many runners having run 2 or 3 times more ultras than marathons during their career. It made me wonder if I'm missing something.

I'm not talking about a 50 or 100 miler for myself, but maybe topping out at a 50K (roughly 31 miles). That isn't a whole lot more than the standard 26.2 of a marathon, but if you're like me then you know how hard the race becomes after about 20-22 miles. Today, there's no way I could do a 50K but I'm wondering if maybe next Fall I could.

I haven't done much off-road racing so I'm looking into that first. Have you switched from road racing to trails? Have advice to share with myself and others who may be wanting to try it? Maybe you have distances or specific races you'd recommend? A couple of people in my running group have said in the past that an ultra is a completely different experience and something a few of us should look into. I'm curious!

race photos

2011-08-24T08:57:00.000-07:00

Seriously, what am I looking at? Why are my elbows so far out from my body? Do I really look like this when I run?? Ugh.

What is it about race photos?? Why can't they ever be good shots like those we see on the cover of Runner's World?? For once, I'd like a good photo of me running with great form, smiling instead of looking like I'm in pain, etc. Maybe then I'd actually purchase it. Of course, I do look like the photos when I run so maybe I should make an effort to look like I'm having fun, practice good form, etc.!

Do you have a bad race photo? Come on... share it with us!

What did you run? 8/15 - 8/21

2011-08-22T12:08:00.001-07:00

How'd you do this week? Scoops will be starting soon, if not already. How will this change your running schedule? Do you exercise while kids are in school?

half marathon: second chance!

2011-08-18T08:20:00.000-07:00

Two years ago I ran the America's Finest City Half Marathon in San Diego and ran a horrible race. I saw the finish clock as I ran towards it hit 2:00 and keep going. In 2009, I ran a 2:00:42. My time -- as painful as it was when all my friends ran much faster times -- was okay for the race but it was the way that I ran the race that was so bad.

The race starts at historic Cabrillo National Monument in Point Loma. The first mile or two are relatively flat and run through the cemetery and then through beautiful neighborhoods. Then the course drops. The next five or so miles are downhill and fast. In 2009, I started the race with friends and when we hit the downhill we were flying. I remember checking out my Garmin and seeing it read sub-7:00 pace which is way too fast for me. And, of course, I died at the bottom. The route flattens out at this point for a few miles along the harbor before ramping back up through downtown to Balboa Park. I had zero energy left for even the flat portions. The hill to Balboa Park was a nightmare.

This year, I'm running my own race. Imagine that! AFC is this weekend and I plan to run a very smart race and walking away with at least a sub 1:50 finish. The weather could be a factor. The hill at the end will definitely be a factor. But I'm prepared and I have a game plan. I'm ready to kick this race's butt the way it kicked mine two years ago.

Do you have a race like that? One where you ran horribly and have plans to run it again, only smarter?

What did you run? 8/8 - 8/14

2011-08-15T07:33:00.000-07:00

Monday miles make me motivated.

Race Calendar

2011-08-09T21:00:00.001-07:00

What do you have coming up on your race calendar? Would love to know which races you have lined up! Race name, distance, date, location...??

Event fees

2011-08-09T20:59:00.000-07:00

It wasn't that long ago that running races didn't cost all that much. I miss the days of going to my local running store in Portland (Ore.), filling out the race registration on the store's counter and walking away with my bib and shirt. It wasn't long ago -- maybe 10 or 12 years ago?? Today, we have to register online because registering via snail mail will often actually cost you more. There are always fees and the race fees themselves just keep going up.

A friend recently changed her mind about running a local San Diego race this month. She had registered late for the race and with fees, she paid $102 and some change. A mutual friend bought the bib from her during the transfer window for the full amount and then still had to pay the $20 transfer fee. In all, over $120 for a HALF MARATHON. I know the Rock-n-Roll series are expensive, but this isn't even one of their races. This just blows my mind, esp. when I learned tonight that recently the inaugural Hollywood Half Marathon (April 2012) offered a $39 special to register. What a difference in price!

The races are just getting too expensive. I'm running the same San Diego race later this month and also purchased a bib from someone who paid $102 and change. My limit was $50, which she accepted since she was injured. I feel comfortable with $50 for a half marathon (esp. since it will be in her name, not mine), or even $60. But upwards of $120?

What about you? What are you willing to pay for races? Dependent on distance? Location? Extras that come in the goodie bag? I never wear the t-shirts and my bib and medal go into a box. I personally could do without all the extras, I just want to run!

What did you run? 8/1 - 8/7

2011-08-08T08:18:00.000-07:00

Yes, we want to know!
How many miles did you run?
Share -- and inspire!

What did you run? 7/25 - 7/31

2011-08-01T05:35:00.000-07:00

Monday Miles! Tell us how you did last week.

1.11 miles

2011-07-31T21:17:00.000-07:00

1.11 miles That's about 9 minutes of running for me. Not at an all-out pace, but a comfortable tempo sort of pace. And it's exactly how far off I am from hitting 100 miles for the month. That's not even my monthly goal (125 miles a month), but a nice round number that I always figure is my absolute minimum for one month. Yet, it's the 31st day of July and it's now after 9pm. The kids are asleep and so are half of our house guests. I could run on the treadmill but it's on the second floor and that might stir the kids. I could run outdoors but it's awfully dark. The gym has been closed for over an hour. And the fact that I'm just 1.11 miles short of 100 miles is driving me nuts -- absolutely, positively, certifiably nuts.

Tomorrow morning I will join my running group for our usual Monday 6 miler. However, I will be waking 15 minutes early so I can get in an extra mile (plus some). I've got to hit August hard and early before another month goes by and I fall short again... by a silly 1.11 miles.

What did you run? 7/18 - 7/24

2011-07-25T07:34:00.000-07:00

I've been watching the forecast and super hot temperatures all across the country. What a scorcher it is out there for nearly everyone! Is it hot where you run? What changes, if any, do you make to your routine to avoid the high temps?

running with dogs

2011-07-24T21:05:00.000-07:00

Bela could fit inside my backpack as a pup! ~ Bela, 6 months ago

I miss my dog. Earlier this week we had to put my Vizsla, Bela, down. She was 12 years old and we had learned just a few days earlier that she had cancer. One of the masses found was on her heart so we knew the prognosis was very poor. We had hoped for a couple of months, but were only given a few days. It was the right thing to do, but an incredibly difficult decision for us.

I ran a little off and on before we got our dog, but she was really the one who got me running regularly. Initially it was to "wear her out" but then it became a joy to run with her. She ran in the dark, in the rain, on trails and on sidewalks, long runs and short runs, beside me with the jogger and alongside me even after we got a second dog who would also run with us. She trained with me for my first and second marathons, often running as far as 6 to 8 miles with me. She scared off a small bear while running with me in Montana. She was my trusted companion for many, many miles.

I hadn't run with her recently. She'd really slowed down and tired after just a mile. I'd been walking with her, often on a 3 mile loop that included walking my son to school. And the day before we learned she had cancer I had taken her (along with my other dog and my two kids) out on a hike. It was more of a walk in the fields than a hike, but she enjoyed it.

I really miss her. I miss those runs we used to do together. It's been two weeks since the last time I took my other dog for a run (3 miles), but losing Bela has made me want to get back into a regular routine of running with Greta. She's a 9 year old German Shorthaired Pointer and can easily run a few miles so I need to do that a couple times a week. She'd love it and so would I.

Do you run with your dog(s)? They really do make the best running partners.

What did you run? 7/11 - 7/17

2011-07-18T11:16:00.000-07:00

Spill it. How many miles did you cover this week??

What did you run? 7/4 - 7/10

2011-07-11T07:26:00.001-07:00

Inquiring minds want to know! How did you fare this past week??

What did you run? 6/27 - 7/3

2011-07-05T05:51:00.000-07:00

Share your week's miles with us! Temps are beginning to heat up across the country and summer travel is gearing up. Did you get in the miles you wanted? Run anywhere new?

Foot Traffic Flat

2011-06-29T20:40:00.000-07:00

The last time I ran the Foot Traffic Flat half marathon (outside Portland, Oregon on Sauvie Island) was in 2006. I saw both Kelly (M&M) and Sarah (Suzie Petunia) at the finish line that year. I'll be running it for the third time this Monday, July 4th, with my husband. Will you be there? Let's exchange information and look for each other!

I'm in! I'm in, I'm in, I'm in!!

2011-06-29T09:46:00.000-07:00

Have you purchased a race bib from someone else? Have you sold a race bib? Have you run bandit in an organized race...?

I've sold one bib. It was for the Carlsbad Marathon. A turn of events two months prior to the race left my training in ruins so I sold (it was actually transferred to him) my full bib and re-registered for the Carlsbad HALF Marathon event. I lost a little money on the deal, of course, but the half was definitely better for me at that time.

I purchased a bib last month for the Rock-n-Roll San Diego Half Marathon. A group of women in San Francisco had planned to run together, but their training was lacking so they sold their bibs. It was actually for the full marathon, but RnR events have a great option of allowing racers to change to the half marathon event race morning (you simply run the half event instead and your time is accurately recorded -- does not work to run the full with a half bib though). I purchased her bib for almost 1/3 what she paid. Transfers are not allowed so I ran the event as her.

Last night I received confirmation that my name has been registered for another half marathon event next week. Again, I purchased a bib from someone who is unable to run and this event allows transfers so I will be running as me. And I can't wait! I saved $25 off the registration price and will get a shirt.

As the prices of these events increase, I'm really liking the ability to purchase bibs from others -- whether or not they are transferred to my name. Really, the only race event I care about having my name attached to is the marathon when I finally get a BQ. Until then, I'll save a few bucks and have fun running some races!

I may try to get a bib for another half marathon in August, too. :)

Please Don't Die From Shock...I'm Still Here

2011-06-27T14:42:00.000-07:00

For some reason, stress fractures can take a long time to heal. And your doctor starts to get worried about how long it's taking for you to heal. Really, he's more worried that you're going to key his car because you've been out for so long. (Those were his words. Not mine.) (He's pretty hilarious when he wants to be.)

So then you're better, finally...but then, of course, there's all this nervousness and hesitation to start running again. No one wants to deal with all that again. It took me a LONG time to get my act together. But being committed to a family Ragnar team sure does get your butt in gear. Especially when one of your best friends commits to running with you and your family. YOU CAN'T BACK OUT.

I suppose a smarter, saner person would start out with a more conservative distance when getting back into the swing of things. We can debate my smartness and sanity at another time, but Wasatch Back was approaching, and I was officially training.

This would be my second time battling the Wasatch Mountains. The first time, I went to battle with some of the loveliest Marathon Mommies we have here. And as luck would have it, I would be Runner 2 once again this time around. Now, I'm not going to get into everything...but I think I wanted to post a little bit of a race recap because I'm proud of finishing. I'm proud that I did better than last time. Even coming back from a lengthy injury recovery, I improved. The altitude didn't kick my tail quite so hard this time around. I'm not saying it was pretty (or easy), but I'm proud of the improvement. I'm proud that crossing that finish line with my awesome team inspired me to continue with my running goals I've set for myself. I didn't stop, even when most people wouldn't have blamed me if I did.

I'm not fast. I'm not a natural runner...but I run. And it's really good to be back.

What did you run? 6/20 - 6/26

2011-06-27T07:36:00.000-07:00

How'd you do this last week?? Did you welcome the first day of summer with a fun run?

What did you run? 6/13 - 6/19

2011-06-20T05:29:00.000-07:00

It's Monday Miles again! Hope you all got in some great miles this past week. Did anyone run with their husband for Father's Day? Run with their kids?

Helvetia Half 2011 race report

2011-06-16T08:47:00.001-07:00

Helvetia Half 2011 race report

I need to document this race before I forget all the fun :)

So I was pretty nervous for this race because I knew that had the ability to beat my time and I really wanted to!! I trained hard but I still found myself doubting that I would be able to pull it off. Friday was busy and my hubby had to work the night shift at work so that meant that I got to do a late baseball game and then get the kiddos down. I had great intentions of having all my gear laid out early in the day so that when I got them in bed I would be able to get to bed not long after. IT of course did not help that our house is on the market and someone wanted to come and look at it while my family was going to be at the race. So after I got the house "show" ready I had my ritual prerace fuel.

Yes, I love McDonalds ice cream cones :) So I got to bed at 11pm, which is pretty good, all things considered. The race did not start until 8am and is just about 10 minutes from where I live but the race organizers had been stressing getting there early. I was trying to follow the rules and there is nothing worse than sitting in traffic and having major anxiety about getting to a race late and having to start after the majority of the runners. I really wanted to give myself the best chance at reaching my goals.

My alarm went off and I really wanted to hit snooze :) Up and at em I was in the shower just to wake me up and dressed and ready to get the show on the road. Picked up my friends Dar and Becky and made it to the parking lot by 6:50. I had brought my oatmeal to eat in the car while we chatted about all things racing. I did not look at the clock but when my bladder was full we decided that it was time to get out and hit up the bathroom and check our bags.

There were so many people! I think 5,000 between the 10k and the half. The port o potty lines were so long so we headed to the stadium hoping the lines would be shorter. No dice!! They were just as long if not longer. It was now 7:45 and after standing in a couple of lines for a few minutes we decided it was a better idea to check our bags and stand in the port o potty lines near the start. Finally got through the line ducked under the fence, got to the front just as the national anthem started. 3,2,1 and I was off!

My goals for this race were to PR for this course (previous PR on this course 1:35:23), finish feeling strong, and fuel properly.

This is the first time I have raced this race with my Garmin and I was happy to have it.

Miles 1-3 were fast. Not the best racing strategy to have Mile 1 be the fastest of the race. Someday I will run a negative split, why is this so hard to do?

A trainer named Hayley from the gym I go to was running this race and we are about the same pace. I knew she was trying to run a sub 1:30. I knew if I was close to her that I would accomplish my time goal. So with in the first mile I found myself right behind and I started to psych myself out. I looked at my watch and realized just how fast I was starting out but I really wanted to stay close to Hayley. Then I started to question whether or not I was going to be able to hang with her.

Mile 1: 6:27

Mile 2: 6:37

Mile 3: 6:41

About mile 3 the hills started and I decided to slow a little so that I would be able to finish strong. The hills on this course are numerous and pretty big. Everytime I run this course I swear that I will not run it again.

Mile 4: 7:09

Mile 5: 7:44 Big Hills here, one after another

Mile 6: 6:57 Downhill to the turn around, I was pushing pretty hard and knew that I needed to fuel soon. It was fun going down and seeing the leaders flying back up the hill. At this point I also got to see that I was the 3rd female. Incentive to keep pushing :)

Mile 7: 7:03 I really like the turn around because I got to see a lot of my friends going down as I go back up the hill. It took my mind off the fact that I was going uphill. Time to pull out my fuel out of my back pocket and throw my gloves which I had been carrying since mile 1. My new favorite fuel are Energy Blasts from PowerBar. They seriously taste like candy. Finally out of the major hills it was time to get through the rolling hills that I always forget about.

Mile 8: 6:52 Feeling good and really hoping for somebody to talk to. I usually find someone to chat with but I really was alone most of the race. I thought about turning on my ipod but decided against it.

Mile 9: 6:50 Chatted with a girl who passed me but then she slowed and we ran side by side for a while. She was running her 1st 1/2 marathon and rocking it.

Mile 10: 7:00 Not a huge fan of the gravel road and the worst part is turning back onto the pavement. Once I turned onto the pavement I pulled away from the girl that I had been running with.

Mile 11: 7:08 Ran with a guy that was running his 1st 1/2. We chatted a little bit but we were both pushing hard and it was just nice to have other people around :)

Mile 12: 7:00 This mile seemed to last forever!

Mile 13: 7:05 I was so happy to almost be done :) I could still see Hayley and I knew I was going to accomplish my goals but as I was reveling in my near completion, I got passed by a woman! I was not happy about this but she was cooking and I was not going to be able to match her. She had a guy pacing her and I was jealous! I wish that I had someone running with me! I pushed as hard as I could but knew that there was no way I was going to catch her. :(

My friend Dar met me with about 1/2 mile left and ran with me for a minute. It was so nice to see her!

I love the finish of this race! You run into the stadium and they call your name over the loud speaker as you cross the finish line. It is so fun! Running down the chute I saw so many friends and my family, it was awesome.

Finish 1:32:05 Course PR by 3 minutes 18 seconds

5th woman overall

1st in my age group

I was so happy to have finished strong and get a course PR. Let the fun begin! I had a lot of friends running this race and it was so fun to see them finish and see them so happy!

Hayley and I talking shop right after we finished. She finished 50 seconds in front of me.

Nicole, Becky, Me, and Jillyn

Orange smiles :)

Yeah, we did it!!!

My little Lily eating my Helvetia burger :)

My buddy Dar, thanks for helping me believe :)

First place ribbon :)

I think that I fueled pretty well during the race. I think that I could have fueled a little sooner and maybe had more in the end but I am learning.

I think that I need to believe in myself a little more but I am getting there. I am actually starting to believe that I can run fast.

We will see what I am able to pull off on July 4th on a flat course. Hopefully sub 1:30?

What did you run? 6/6 - 6/12

2011-06-13T07:25:00.000-07:00

How did you do last week? Inquiring minds want to know! Please post how many miles you logged. It'll motivate the rest of us to get out there and do the same.

What did you run? 5/30 - 6/5

2011-06-06T06:49:00.000-07:00

Hope you all had great runs last week! Lots of people are racing or gearing up for races. How did you do?

Advice needed!!!

2011-06-05T20:35:00.000-07:00

So I am really bad a tapering before a race and usually do not do it before a 1/2 marathon at all.

Some recent history, in April I ran a 1/2 and it was miles 39-52 for the week. It was a hilly course and I ran a 1:35:39. After the race I wondered what I could do if I had not run so many miles that week before the race. So I have 1/2 this Saturday and it will be the 4th time that I have run this race. Last year I ran a 1:35:something and won my age group. I would really like to beat my PR for this race (would love to PR but, this course is hilly and my PR was on a downhill/flat course) and feel like I have a good shot if my left hamstring cooperates. I am still going to run this week but I want to try and cut back and see what I can do on fresher legs. Do any of you have any advice? I am crazy and have a hard time Not running! I know I am not the on;y one who suffers from this disease so share your thoughts with me, things you have tried that have worked for you, or things that you have read about. All signs point to that I should be able to do it but because I did so well last year but I have a goal this time and I am putting a lot of pressure on myself. I would love any and all thoughts :)

Rock 'n' Roll San Diego

2011-06-05T20:31:00.000-07:00

This morning I ran the Rock 'n' Roll San Diego Half Marathon. Three days ago I had no desire to run this race. I'm not a fan of this race series -- that's a whole other post, but basically the "circus" environment I imagined is very, very real -- and never gave it a second thought. However, my friend called me Thursday evening to say, "I think I can get us bibs for this weekend's race. Are you in?"  The more I thought it over, the more I liked the idea.  Friday I thought it might be iffy and I actually felt disappointed -- I really did want to run this race! Saturday morning, she texted me around 11am to let me know that she had two bibs in her hands and that we were all set to run.  So this morning I woke at 3am (couldn't sleep) and we headed downtown for the 6:15am race start.

Our bibs were for the full marathon but we agreed that doing the full today wouldn't be prudent. I'd only run one 11 miler since the OC Marathon and she hadn't run much at all since Boston due to tight hamstrings.  So we decided to run the half marathon. The first four miles we weaved around slower runners and walkers.  Around this point we became separated and didn't see each other again the whole race. I continued to weave around people pretty much the whole race but it did ease up a bit after mile 6. Around mile 8 the guy in front of me came to a dead stop and I totally nailed him. Again around mile 12 a female on the side also wanted to weave around the same 4 slower runners that I was weaving around and we collided. Had I not held her arm up, she totally would have bit it. She apologized (it was her fault) but it still felt pretty good to take off at that point and leave her and her white tutu behind. The crowd support was amazing and I was able to pick it up to a 7:40 pace as I headed into the finish. It was a new PR for the half marathon distance (took off almost 3 minutes to finish in 1:49 -- woot!) but it isn't official since it wasn't my bib. I'm not the 32 year old female I pretended to be today. Nor is my friend the 26 year old female she pretended to be today.

Usually the races we enter are planned so far in advance. It was a different experience to "jump in at the last minute" and really a fun way to do it.  We were planning to run 12 miles this weekend anyway and with the gorgeous weekend weather and bibs for 1/3 of their original prices, well... how could we possibly pass that up!?

An inline double jogger? Or am I just dreaming?

2011-06-02T12:38:00.000-07:00

My second child is set to arrive in early August (although I wouldn't complain if he decided a July birth suited him better). In preparation, my husband and I recently purchased a Chariot jogging stroller/bike trailer. I love it...in theory. However, getting that thing in my small, 1950s home is a challenge! It can't leave the front room given its width. And I am not down with a jogging stroller permanently set up in my front room. (No garage and a very humid climate means no leaving this outside.)

I am guessing this is not just a problem with Chariot; rather, it's a problem with all double strollers. So my question for everyone is, have you ever seen a double jogging stroller that is more "inline" rather than side-by-side? You know, sort of like the fancy Phil & Ted strollers, but ones for running?

National Running Day!

2011-06-01T07:33:00.000-07:00

Are you running today? I ran track this morning and will take my kids out this afternoon after school to run with them. Hope you all have great runs today whether it's solo or with a group, short or long, fast or slow...

roll call: May mileage

2011-05-31T14:11:00.000-07:00

It's been so fun to see what everyone is logging every week that I think we should also share what our monthly miles are. How was May for you? Did you run the miles you wanted to? Are you on track for a yearly goal? Have a goal in mind for June?

What did you run? 5/23 - 5/29

2011-05-30T07:47:00.000-07:00

All of you gals are amazing. AMAZING! With the long holiday weekend, are you able to get in an extra run or a longer run?

What did you run? 5/16 - 5/22

2011-05-23T07:48:00.000-07:00

I'm impressed with the numbers all of you are racking up! Keep it up!!

racing bibs and medals

2011-05-18T16:12:00.000-07:00

With all the races we participate in, what do you do with your medals and bibs? Do you display them somewhere? Mine were piling up on my dresser (of all places!) until today. I finally found my box of bibs and medals from the races prior to our move to California three years ago. I've looked for this box in the past. It was just one of those things you tuck away in a special (bigger) box and can never find again. I'm sure you know how that goes. Anyway, I now have them all together and I don't know what to do with them. Ideas?

*The Napa Valley Marathon is my favorite medal. My Chicago Marathon medal has special meaning because although it was a terrible race, it was my first. I keep that one in the side pocket of my purse. It reminds me that I can achieve any goal I set for myself.

What did you run? 5/9-5/15

2011-05-16T07:43:00.000-07:00

I loved seeing what everyone was running this last week. Thank you for posting your miles and sharing them with us! Congratulations to all those who ran marathons, too. Excellent job, ladies! How was this last week for you?

What did you run? 5/2-5/8

2011-05-09T08:05:00.000-07:00

Although the calendar shows differently, I always think of the week as Monday to Sunday. To keep everyone (okay, me!) motivated, let's post our weekly mileage. We'll do this every Monday so get out there and run this week!

Beantown race report : )

2011-05-08T15:03:00.000-07:00

Hello running friends! Although I haven't contributed to this blog in forever and a day, I still keep in contact with many of you and wanted to post a link to my Boston marathon experience. Here's the link to my blog below.

Boston Marathon 2011

My apologies in advance...it is ridiculously long and full of fluff and things that will probably only be interesting to me. : )

Happy running to all of you!

Chelle

running for fun

2011-05-07T10:35:00.000-07:00

This morning's 6 miler was run with friends on the beach. And it was fun. No, make that FUN. I don't know why I don't do this more often. We jumped over rocks and shells, watched the surfers catch some waves, and kicked up wet sand while the miles flew by. Don't be mistaken, it was tough as beach running always is. But to end the run with sand up to the backside of our knees, the smell of the ocean on our skin and having felt "adventurous"...? It was a fantastic way to start this Mother's Day weekend. With all the miles I log every week, more of them should be this much fun. Happy Mother's Day to all of you!

The Marathon Show

2011-05-07T10:24:00.000-07:00

Imagine receiving this message online: "We talk about Cherl and her race in OC in this show." You know I had to go listen to the show ASAP and hear what was said about me. Joe Taricani does a fun show dedicated to this sport we all love and if you aren't a fan, you should be. His shows are always entertaining and often they are full of great information. And he's all about giving the average runner out there a little airtime. As he says: We like to make average famous because every one of you has remarkable determination. We celebrate the finish line on The Marathon Show, not the finish time. My minute of airtime can be found at 19:15. Fun!

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/themarathonshow/2011/05/06/coffee-with-the-audience-1

post-race runs

2011-05-03T13:40:00.000-07:00

Curious what you all do after the big race and while your body is recovering? When do you run again? I've always thought of the first two weeks after a race as the opposite of the taper. So the first week I wouldn't run more than what I ran the last week leading up to the race, the second post-race week's mileage wouldn't exceed what I ran two weeks before the race, etc. It seems to work for me. I totally believe in active recovery.

I was looking at my running log and after each marathon I followed it up with a long-ish run that next weekend, something in the 7-10 mile range. I'm already thinking ahead to this weekend's run and what I'll do. Given how I feel today, maybe something in the 5-8 mile range? I ran a very easy 30 minutes (3 miles) on the treadmill today and followed it up with 15 minutes on the bike and a really, really good stretch that incorporated yoga poses. I'm feeling pretty good but also don't want to push things. I always defer to listening to my body so I'll wait until later this week to decide what to run Saturday.

What about you? What is your post-marathon (race?) routine?

Meet Kara Goucher in Portland 5/9

2011-05-03T07:39:00.001-07:00

Kara Goucher is meeting folks and signing copies of her new book Running For Women at the Cedar Hills Crossing (OR) Powell's Books next Monday evening. The fun starts at 7pm but you'll want to be there earlier to get in line. I'm not in Portland but I wish I were because I would totally be there. What's not to love about Kara? She's personable, friendly, genuine, she's the all-American girl-next-door. She could be your best friend. And she's a mom who just happens to be an incredible athlete. I'd go meet her and buy her book.

Race Report: OC Marathon

2011-05-02T21:36:00.000-07:00

I ran a marathon yesterday! Race report is on my blog if you're interested...
www.runningaddiction.blogspot.com

Marathon Maniacs: are you one?

2011-05-02T21:08:00.000-07:00

You've seen these folks at races, but have you ever wondered what it takes to get into this crazy group of runners? They list their criteria on the website but the lowest level - Bronze Level - requires the runner to complete one of two things: 1) two marathons in a 16 day period or 2) three marathons in a 90 day period. I'm not interested in pursuing this for myself, but I find their group interesting. These runners always seem to be having THE BEST time at races. What do you make of them?

race bibs

2011-04-28T12:29:00.000-07:00

2411. That's my bib number for my marathon this weekend - #2411. Whenever I get a race number I always look for some meaning in the number, something to tell me that it's a lucky one and that I'll have a fantastic race. But I'm not seeing anything in this one. Do you? It'll be my 5th marathon. Race day is May 1, 2011. I'm not 24 years old. I have 2 kids and 2 dogs so collectively they are 4 kids. Maybe I'm running this for my 2 (human) kids, my 4 kids total and the year is '11...? Anyone see any special meaning in 2411? I've got nothing.

running shoes

2011-04-27T08:17:00.000-07:00

Does your closet look like mine? I keep my running shoes and clothes together for easy access. My socks, gloves, arm sleeves, hats, etc. are kept elsewhere. In the three milk crates I have cool weather long sleeve shirts and pants in one, shorts and running skirts in another, and tank tops and short sleeved running shirts in the last crate. I currently have 5 pairs of shoes in rotation and another 2 (new) pairs still in their boxes. It feels a little out of control when all my shoes are more or less the same shoe. I don't have Vibrams, racing flats, one of the new "flex" shoes to mimic natural running, etc. What about you? Are you running in a regular running shoe or one of these other alternatives? And does your closet look like mine? Or is it more clean and organized??

BEST HEADPHONES I have ever had!

2011-04-13T17:39:00.000-07:00

Have you heard of Auria? The company contacted me to give their headphones a try and review them...
They are GREAT! I hope to be having a give away on my blog next week... in the mean time.. check out the phones that wont wiggle or pop out... you can hear sounds around you at the same time you hear your music!!! :)

click here to get to my blog post about it :)

Would love to hear what you all enjoy in the way of headphones :)

blessings
Ruthie

Sidelined

2011-04-12T07:16:00.000-07:00

I have a friend who has always been a competitive runner. Then she married, had two kids and has just started running distance races two years ago. Last year's Boston was her third marathon (in one year) where she snagged a shiny new PR in the 3:35s.

For the past year, she has been living, breathing and dreaming about the 2011 Boston Marathon. She has been setting PRs in all distances this year, even placing first in several local races. Her goal for 2011 was to finish around 3 hours alongside her college running teammates who are all traveling from around the country to meetup in Boston. Her training was spot on and it looked like her dream would become a reality.

But three weeks ago she felt some pain in her pelvis after a long run. She had it checked out and the doctors told her it's a stress fracture and that Boston is out for this year. You can probably imagine the disappointment. She's been working through all the emotions -- anger, frustration, disappointment, bargaining with herself and the powers that be... She's questioned whether the risk of running it anyway is worth it. Of course, it isn't. She's 30 years old and has years of running and PRs in her future. However, the disappointment she feels right now is very real and it's been a difficult time for her.

Do you have humorous running blogs you turn to when disappointment rears its ugly head? Where do you go to find something to lighten the mood, someone to commisserate with, maybe another mama blogger who has written something that she can relate to...?

Running with Kara and Shalane, well sort of...

2011-04-11T18:38:00.000-07:00

So this past Saturday I decided to do a 12 mile tempo run. I could not think of a good route so I decided that I would run to the Nike Campus and do some 400 repeats to break it up a little. The run was going great and I was happy with my pace. As I approached the track on campus I noticed an very fit woman warming up and then I realized that it was Kara Goucher. This is the 2nd time I have seen her but the first I time I was so star struck all I could do was smile with huge eyes I am sure. This time I was more nerdy but I had to talk to her. As I went by her I said, "I am routing for you at Boston." She got a smile on her face and said thank you. As I did my repeats with some of the other male elite runners blazing past me, I looked down at my Garmin to see my pace. It said 6:09!!! Nothing like some Olympians to motivate you to speed up!!!

Then my luck continued today as I again went to the Nike Campus for a little speed work and saw Shalane Flanagan with her coach and some other elite men. I did not have the courage to talk to her but I did smile and say Hi. Yes I am a big running nerd, I know.

So wish that I was running Boston again this year! You better believe that I will watch all of coverage I can find and I will be routing for Kara!

Post-Marathon Blues

2011-04-06T05:45:00.000-07:00

I ran the DC National Marathon last month and it was AWESOME! For my race report, you can click HERE.

Okay, so we've all heard of Post-Partum Depression, but have any of you ever suffered from Post-Marathon Depression? It's not an all-out state of feeling down. I just feel a little blue and have a complete LACK of motivation. Is it from the burnout of training so hard for 4 months and now I no longer have a workout to check off every day?

I mean, I am glad to have my life back because it is a crazy/busy one: 4 boys (make that 5 with the husband), early morning seminary, and a part-time job.

But now that all of that intensity is gone, I'm trying to figure out what to do next.

Should I do a half because I'm sure I could easily PR.

I'm thinking of doing a sprint triathlon, but I would need to take adult swimming lessons first. I'm definitely a 'less effective' swimmer.

**What have you done after your marathon was over, but you weren't feeling the immediate desire to do another one?**

Carlsbad 5000

2011-04-03T21:03:00.000-07:00

I have the good fortune of having this awesome family weekend event - the Carlsbad 5000 - in my (current) hometown of Carlsbad, California. Friday is the official packet pickup day and most make an afternoon of it -- picking up their packets, listening to live music, sampling yummies and eating dinner in the Village. Saturday is the Junior Carlsbad race, a running event for children 12 and under. The Carlsbad Educational Foundation is the beneficiary of this event and there is a School Champion named for the school with the most participants. There are 11 age group races from the "2 and under" group all the way to "age 12" group and the race distances vary depending on the age. On Sunday, the adults get a turn in the Carlsbad 5000. Again, the race is divided up into age groups and by sex. Last year I ran in the "39 and under females", next year I'll run in the "40 and over females". The races are organized in such a way that families are able to participate because while one parent is racing, the other can watch their children. It's a brilliantly organized race. And once everyone has had an opportunity to race, there are two Elite Invitationals composed of 12 men and 12 women. The men start first and then the women start 2 minutes later. These elites are truly the best of the best and come from all over the world. Watching the lead male finish in 13:11 and the lead female (both from Ethiopia) finish in 15:13 today was pretty amazing. If you blinked, you totally missed them. The whole Carlsbad 5000 weekend adds up to big fun for everyone!

CEP compression socks

2011-03-28T07:46:00.000-07:00

the socks arrived wrapped like a present ~ resting w/my feet up

My new compression socks arrived mid-week and I couldn't wait to try them out. (BTW, these arrived 3 days after ordering them online... no shipping or taxes and a 10% discount!) I decided to wait until after my weekend's long run but with friends in town, the long run was postponed until Sunday morning. Immediately following my 20+ mile run yesterday I showered and slipped into these socks. Well, I didn't "slip into them" because it was more of a pushing and pulling event to get these on. However, I wore them all day and my legs felt great. I don't know if there was a difference in recovery (I haven't been sore after my long runs these last two months, just tired), but the snugness on my legs sure felt nice! Last night I was bouncing up and down the stairs and this morning I took a spin class. Maybe it was the socks? Either way, thanks for the tips. My legs were loving the gentle hug/squeeze yesterday!

Do you Rock 'n' Roll?

2011-03-23T08:42:00.000-07:00

The Rock 'n' Roll race series has taken on a life of its own. I remember when they were just starting out and now it seems they are in every part of the country, easily accessible to anyone who wants to participate. Have you participated in one? How did it compare to other race events you've done?

A friend and I were talking about the series a few weeks ago during one of our weekday runs. I was on the fence about my next marathon and getting her thoughts on which one I should do. Even though the Rock 'n' Roll San Diego marathon fits well into my schedule, we both describe this race series the same way: a circus.

Whatever happened to simply running a race for the sake of running a race? Do we really need concerts from C-list artists at the finish line? Or another race shirt that we'll never wear?? The Rock 'n' Roll San Diego race is $160 for the marathon. No thanks. You can count me out of those. I'm personally not interested in the circus atmosphere of these races. I may rock, but I don't roll that way.

DC National Marathon

2011-03-22T03:42:00.000-07:00

Are you ready for this on Saturday?

I'm running it and I could not be more excited! This will be my first marathon in 3 years. It is about time, right? No more pregnancy, nursing, or lame injuries.

I did the half last year and fell in love with it. DC is probably one of the most beautiful courses I have ever run. Running toward the capital as the sun rises over the heart of the city is amazing. Plus, the crowd is awesome.

Are there any other marathon mommies running DC this weekend? If so, good luck!