This week my runs were on Monday, Wednesday, and today (Friday). I brought my running clothes to work and did each run right after school ended. I'm really starting to like this routine, I get my runs in when it is still light out, I spend some more time with the family since I'm not sneaking away, and it seems easier to get it done then instead of waiting until 7:30 or 8:00pm when I have no desire to run.
I completed 5 miles on Monday on part of the marathon route. It was quite windy and cold because I forgot gloves and some sort of head covering. I didn't notice it after the first 1.5, but boy was it tough until then. I'm starting to know this part of the course quite well, which I am not sure if it will be to my benefit or not. There are a few houses I look forward to passing--one including the Wrigleyville sign on the porch. Those are hard to come by in Central Illinois, it seems as if everybody is a Cardinals fan.
Wednesday called for 9 miles. This is a pretty big mid-week run for me and this is the kind of week that has been one of the reasons it's taken me 29 years to even attempt a marathon. 9 miles had been my long runs on the weekends. Putting them midweek not only frightens me, but it also stresses me out trying to figure out when to get the run in. It is no surprise that I am not speedy, so an hour and a half run is a bit trickier now that we have 2 kids. I hit the road by 2:53, which put me back to my car at 4:23 with plenty of time to pick up the kids and not feel too guilty about it. The run took me to different parts of Champaign than one's I'm familiar with, so it made for some great scenery. I also felt fairly good after the first 4 miles even though I was a little hungry and probably less hydrated than what I should have been.
Today I did my 5 miles around school as well. This time I ran 3 miles and then met a colleague back at school who was wanting to run 2 miles. Despite the wind, I somehow was putting in closer to 9 minute miles, which is flying for me. It was nice to meet up with my friend for the last 2, even though we "ran" into a bunch of students on our loop around the school area. I'm sure it was quite the scene for them to see their teachers running. Quite shocking considering most of them think we live in the school.
Sunday will be a big one for me. I plan to hydrate as best as I can tomorrow so that I will be fresh for the 18 miles. I'll be carpooling with 3 others from the running group to run in Mahomet. Once again, I'm both anxious and excited. I hope this is a good one for me!
Friday, March 4, 2011
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Full Week Report
I came off of a runner's high leading into my short week of running. Since the long run was on Sunday, I only had to run Tuesday and Thursday this week. It was a nice break, but I think that it negatively contributed to my long run on Saturday.
Tuesday was an easy 4 miles that I did right away after school. We were scheduled for more snow...yes...more snow. I was able to sneak the run in before any snow came and enjoyed myself.
Thursday was a busy day for me since Tony was leaving right away after work to head to Vermont for a wedding that he was in this weekend. I escaped school without anyone seeing me because I left before I was supposed to. Luckily our principal doesn't give us the evil eye even if she had seen me duck out early. I was dressed oddly because I hadn't fully intended to run outside, but it was so nice I couldn't pass it up---sorry no pic. Since I didn't pack my running jacket, I put a vest that I had worn all day on over my gear. I spent 4 of my 7 miles playing through a confrontation with an acquaintance that occurred this week. I won't go into the details, but needless to say I was not happy that I devoted over half of my run to a man I don't see eye to eye with on nearly anything. I stayed fairly close to school and was able to get in at least 2 miles of the actual marathon course.
When I picked up the kids from daycare our babysitter could tell I had just come from working out and that prompted my telling her that I was training for a marathon. She asked how far that was and later asked if it was a mini thing or a full. It baffles me that many people have absolutely no concept of what a marathon actually entails.
My parents were nice enough to come visit for the weekend while Tony was away. This also allowed me to run with the group on Saturday, something I don't always get to do since Tony works most Saturdays. The group was a big one (at least 50) and we looked pretty mighty when we first started out, but spread out quite a bit as the 12 miles went on. All in all it was a decent run (2:15 with one bathroom break and 3 water stops), but I didn't feel as fresh as I had the week before for an even longer run. Fortunately the others felt similarly, so that made me feel a bit better.
Next week is going to be a tough one and to top that off, the run moves to 7am...ugh.
Tuesday was an easy 4 miles that I did right away after school. We were scheduled for more snow...yes...more snow. I was able to sneak the run in before any snow came and enjoyed myself.
Thursday was a busy day for me since Tony was leaving right away after work to head to Vermont for a wedding that he was in this weekend. I escaped school without anyone seeing me because I left before I was supposed to. Luckily our principal doesn't give us the evil eye even if she had seen me duck out early. I was dressed oddly because I hadn't fully intended to run outside, but it was so nice I couldn't pass it up---sorry no pic. Since I didn't pack my running jacket, I put a vest that I had worn all day on over my gear. I spent 4 of my 7 miles playing through a confrontation with an acquaintance that occurred this week. I won't go into the details, but needless to say I was not happy that I devoted over half of my run to a man I don't see eye to eye with on nearly anything. I stayed fairly close to school and was able to get in at least 2 miles of the actual marathon course.
When I picked up the kids from daycare our babysitter could tell I had just come from working out and that prompted my telling her that I was training for a marathon. She asked how far that was and later asked if it was a mini thing or a full. It baffles me that many people have absolutely no concept of what a marathon actually entails.
My parents were nice enough to come visit for the weekend while Tony was away. This also allowed me to run with the group on Saturday, something I don't always get to do since Tony works most Saturdays. The group was a big one (at least 50) and we looked pretty mighty when we first started out, but spread out quite a bit as the 12 miles went on. All in all it was a decent run (2:15 with one bathroom break and 3 water stops), but I didn't feel as fresh as I had the week before for an even longer run. Fortunately the others felt similarly, so that made me feel a bit better.
Next week is going to be a tough one and to top that off, the run moves to 7am...ugh.
Monday, February 21, 2011
16 miles...A New Milestone
I was a good combination between nervous and excited for Sunday's run since it would be the longest I have ever run. I got a decent night's rest, only to be woken up around 4:30 by Tyler and the horrendous rain that was pounding outside. After feeding Tyler, I went back to bed and prayed that the rain would stop in time for my run. Thankfully the running gods listened.
I met the group just before 8am and used the most disgusting port-o-potty I think I have ever seen before we left. It was significantly colder than the 50 degree temps the forecast had shown, so I was pretty chilly in my capris and lighter jacket. Fortunately I threw in a headband for my ears.
The route was an 8 mile loop that covers a good portion of part of the marathon route. We had our usual group with both pace leaders, so I knew it would be an entertaining run. I noticed the wind right away and it really didn't let up until around mile 5, so that made the run colder and tougher.
We had great conversation throughout the run, so great that I only checked my watch once before we finished and that was at mile 13. I felt phenomenal. My knees and hips did ache a bit starting at about mile 10, but I think that is to be expected. The group took a short bathroom break and quick stops at the water station, but we were still able to come in just under my goal time with my watch reading 2:59.52.
I'm probably not pushing myself as hard as I could, but everyone keeps telling me with a first marathon, you should just put the miles in and enjoy it. I'll take that.
I felt pretty good the rest of the day and was even perky enough to chase M&M around the house by dinner time. I hope I feel this way in 2 weeks when I have my 18 miler.
I met the group just before 8am and used the most disgusting port-o-potty I think I have ever seen before we left. It was significantly colder than the 50 degree temps the forecast had shown, so I was pretty chilly in my capris and lighter jacket. Fortunately I threw in a headband for my ears.
The route was an 8 mile loop that covers a good portion of part of the marathon route. We had our usual group with both pace leaders, so I knew it would be an entertaining run. I noticed the wind right away and it really didn't let up until around mile 5, so that made the run colder and tougher.
We had great conversation throughout the run, so great that I only checked my watch once before we finished and that was at mile 13. I felt phenomenal. My knees and hips did ache a bit starting at about mile 10, but I think that is to be expected. The group took a short bathroom break and quick stops at the water station, but we were still able to come in just under my goal time with my watch reading 2:59.52.
I'm probably not pushing myself as hard as I could, but everyone keeps telling me with a first marathon, you should just put the miles in and enjoy it. I'll take that.
I felt pretty good the rest of the day and was even perky enough to chase M&M around the house by dinner time. I hope I feel this way in 2 weeks when I have my 18 miler.
Just a little Obsessed
I had been super excited about starting to read Run Like a Mother because of my current situation and the fact that the two authors keep a blog that I occasionally follow. It has some interesting stories, but overall, it's not as great as I had hoped it would be. They do include tidbits from over 100 female runners that they interviewed and those make for some great stories and insights.
As for Dean Karnazes, the Ultra Marathon Man, he is outright crazy. He's run 5o marathons in 50 consecutive days. I haven't gotten to that part of the book, he's only just finished his first 50 mile race and is training for the Western States Endurance 100 mile run. His stories are incredible and he makes my 16 mile feat from this weekend seem like a warm-up.
I'm afraid I've found a new passion. We'll see how long this lasts.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Midweek Run
8+ miles ran
7 massive puddles stepped in
6 waits at stop lights
5 zig zags across the road to avoid cars, snow, ice, and uncleared paths
4 cars that nearly hit me bringing me to full out stops
3 snow bank/ice piles I had to jump into to avoid cars and other obstructions
2 new blisters from running in wet socks
1 potty break at Panera
Overall time: 1:28 (not too bad in my opinion considering the obstacle course I went through)
Felt pretty good before and after
Dear Champaign,
I know I complained about not clearing snow from our streets and not having a snow removal mandate, but I think the lack of lighting is actually worse. I do not feel safe running long stretches without any street lights on roads that do not have sidewalks. I just might have to invest in a headlamp for my runs, that would be especially dorky. Please help your people out.
Thanks,
Jill
7 massive puddles stepped in
6 waits at stop lights
5 zig zags across the road to avoid cars, snow, ice, and uncleared paths
4 cars that nearly hit me bringing me to full out stops
3 snow bank/ice piles I had to jump into to avoid cars and other obstructions
2 new blisters from running in wet socks
1 potty break at Panera
Overall time: 1:28 (not too bad in my opinion considering the obstacle course I went through)
Felt pretty good before and after
Dear Champaign,
I know I complained about not clearing snow from our streets and not having a snow removal mandate, but I think the lack of lighting is actually worse. I do not feel safe running long stretches without any street lights on roads that do not have sidewalks. I just might have to invest in a headlamp for my runs, that would be especially dorky. Please help your people out.
Thanks,
Jill
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Warmer Weather
Finally the temperatures are starting to pick up and I only wore a short sleeved shirt with a lighter running jacket. I did an out and back through Parkland for the first part of my 9 miler today. This week was a step back week and I really appreciated the lighter load.
For whatever reason, the first leg was a bit emotional for me. I think it had something to do with the fact that 30 minutes before leaving for my afternoon run, I checked the mail. We received a postcard from a dear friend, who now lives in North Carolina. Her husband has been deployed once again and it just hit me hard for some reason. I thought a lot about him and other people in my life throughout the run. This left me teary eyed and struggling for my breath. While this wasn't where I thought my mind would be today, it was great.
I spent a lot of time thinking about everyone who has been in my life at some point or another. It reminded me how important my friends and family are to me, no matter how far away they might be or how little I may see them. Throughout this marathon process alone, I've had so many loved ones checking in on me through emails, texts, phone calls. It has been so encouraging to have everyone on my side and worried about what I am eating the night before, if I've been on my feet too long, or how I'm going to find time for my long run.
It was hard stopping back home for my Gu, when I saw Tony and M&M doing this...
It took all my will power to get back on the road and finish the last 5 miles. I have this bad habit of stressing out about all the things I have to do in my life and I have a tendency to freak out a bit. Fortunately Tony has learned to live with this. Every once in awhile I get a reality check and I remember that I really need to slow down and appreciate everything I have. I did continue out, even though I really wanted to stay and help build the rest of the snowman.
Nothing too exciting to report about the rest of the run, just that I'm glad I've finally decided to try this marathon thing out. I've still got a long way to go, but I'm confident that I can do this...there are so many other people doing way more out there, the least I can do is suck it up and run.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Holy Mother of Coldness
Needless to say the 3 degree temperature that felt like -7, combined with a fairly full stomach after eating out for dinner, were both less than desirable reasons for me to run tonight. Somehow I managed to suck it up and even dragged Ellie along with for the ride.
On our way home from dinner, I himmed and haaed over whether I should go to the gym or run outside. I consulted Tony, weighing my options, one of which was the fact that I really didn't think it was a good idea to run outside in the dark all by myself and I felt like it was too cold to take Ellie with me on my run. Being the concerned husband that he is, Tony's response was, "Do you really think some madman is going to be hanging out in these temperatures to assault a girl? That would be some dedication."
The cold temperatures beat out the treadmill tonight because I knew in the long run it is actually quicker for me to just run outside than drive to the gym and back. It turns out it's not really the crazy men lurking outside I need to be concerned about. Instead I should be more worried about the horrendous 20something Parkland College drivers that have no regard for runners. In their defense, yes, the road curves around making it more difficult to see pedestrians, and there are portions of the road that are less lit, but COME ON PEOPLE! I most have dodged at least 5 cars while rescuing Ellie from an early death and had a few choice words for the young students that were either busy smoking or texting while driving.
My toes, fingers, and nose were all freezing during the first mile. I think even the tear drops in my eyes began to form icicles. I kept a quicker pace though and came back in around 40 minutes (which included multiple complete stops to make sure I was out of the way of the drivers who were going upwards of 40 mph in a 25 mph zone).
Ellie was eager to get back as her pace drastically slowed. She might have been affected by the frozen whiskers that covered her face.
All in all, a good run. Remind me to save night runs at Parkland for when it is light out.
On our way home from dinner, I himmed and haaed over whether I should go to the gym or run outside. I consulted Tony, weighing my options, one of which was the fact that I really didn't think it was a good idea to run outside in the dark all by myself and I felt like it was too cold to take Ellie with me on my run. Being the concerned husband that he is, Tony's response was, "Do you really think some madman is going to be hanging out in these temperatures to assault a girl? That would be some dedication."
Little M&M stretching with her momma. Yes, I have 2 pairs of pants on and knee high PINK socks. I think those were the reason my toes were so cold...Smart Wool from now on.
The cold temperatures beat out the treadmill tonight because I knew in the long run it is actually quicker for me to just run outside than drive to the gym and back. It turns out it's not really the crazy men lurking outside I need to be concerned about. Instead I should be more worried about the horrendous 20something Parkland College drivers that have no regard for runners. In their defense, yes, the road curves around making it more difficult to see pedestrians, and there are portions of the road that are less lit, but COME ON PEOPLE! I most have dodged at least 5 cars while rescuing Ellie from an early death and had a few choice words for the young students that were either busy smoking or texting while driving.
My toes, fingers, and nose were all freezing during the first mile. I think even the tear drops in my eyes began to form icicles. I kept a quicker pace though and came back in around 40 minutes (which included multiple complete stops to make sure I was out of the way of the drivers who were going upwards of 40 mph in a 25 mph zone).
Ellie was eager to get back as her pace drastically slowed. She might have been affected by the frozen whiskers that covered her face.
All in all, a good run. Remind me to save night runs at Parkland for when it is light out.
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