Boston Marathon Race Report!

(photos below were taken from my cell phone while running)

If you've ever dreamed of running the Boston Marathon you've most likely read plenty of course descriptions and commentary about the race. I know I personally read a lot about the race during the months leading up to the race. But nothing quite captured the essence of the race that I experienced yesterday.

I woke up at 5:50am. Sounds late, right?!? Most races in a large city you have to wake up at 4:30 or 5am to make it to the start with plenty of time to stand in line at the port-o-johns. Nope, not Boston. Buses for the 2nd wave started loading at 6:45am. I met up with an awesome mommy runner Dorothy who I met online and her posse (including her mom who was also running Boston) and we loaded the bus. I believe Dorothy and I were the only runners of the 8-runner group from Northern Virginia who had never run Boston.

It was a 1-hour drive to the race start in Hopkinton. The winds were between 10-20mph and cold. Upon arrival it was quite a sight to see the tens of thousands of runners with their mini "campsites" set up. You could tell who was experienced and who was novice by how much equipment they had. After all, we had 2 and a half hours before we lined up at the start. Evidently, you were supposed to be prepared for anything -- terrential downpours, freezing cold temps, heatwave...anything could happen. There were sleeping bags, plastic tarps, crazy looking warm hooded jumpsuits, food and more food. All that was missing was a bonfire and some marshmallows. I was unprepared in the food department so I bummed some pretzels. As with all races, everyone lined up for the bathrooms several times and before you knew it -- time to head to the start.

We dropped our bags at the buses and began a 1/4 mile walk to the start. I took my phone and listened to all the "good luck" messages from the night before and race morning. An incredibly sweet message from my big bro brought me to tears. He is not a runner - but somehow he knew that this was pretty big and he was completely proud. Suddenly we heard "3 minutes until start...1 minute"...Dorothy and I still hadn't made it up to the first corral...we jumped a fence and started running just after the gun went off.

From the absolute beginning of the race there were thousands of spectators. I thought for sure the crowds would die down quickly. Nope! To my surprise the crowds continued through every town. Each town bigger and better. Around mile 3 I bid Dorothy farewell and we ran our own separate races.

I started the morning full of self-doubt. I had not logged many long runs prior to the race and did not stick to my training plan for the most part. So I was worried this would be a really painful day. I had also pulled my hamstring 2 weeks prior - it was super tight the first few miles.

First landmark was the biker bar with harleys lined up and bikers cheering. Wellesley College and the famous "Wellesley Girls" were just as loud and incredible as they say. Coeds offering kisses with bright red lipstick. It sounded as if The Beatles must have been running among us.

Every step along the way people were high five-ing us, handing out orange wedges, twizzlers, drinks, wet clothes, kleenex...you name it. I could not believe the numbers of people who looked me straight in the eye, offered a smile and yelled my name as loudly as they could. It was as if they somehow knew me.

For about 10 miles I ran next to legend Bill Rodgers. He is a Boston winner from the 70's and a famous runner, coach, author. Very cool to run alongside him and his entourage.

Boston College was also a real trip. This is where my father-in-law attended college and was an athlete. Soon my brother-in-law would enroll there as well. What a beautiful campus - it looked more like an old cathedral. I swear the entire college population came out to cheer. Nothing like cute college boys cheering for you!!

We even passed a nursing home who had wheeled many residents out to the curb to cheer. They offered high fives and encouragement as best they could. Later I found out this was where my awesome husband and kids were watching for me. I MISSED THEM!

Each town was electric. Each runner looked strong and determined. To my surprise no one really wanted to chat along the way. So it was a little hard for people like me who can't keep quiet.

I was thrilled to realize that my legs were holding strong. I was feeling no pain. if my quads started burning I shifted my efforts to my hams. If my hams were too tight I shifted my efforts to my knees/quads. I concentrated on form to get me through. I concentrated on form and keeping my shoulders relaxed. I thought about all the things I teach my running students. The miles passed so quickly that I even "lost" a few miles in the process - always a pleasant surprise to jump from mile 16 to 20 without realizing it! I felt so good I was taking pictures with my camera phone as I ran!!!

The entire route was a series of ups and downs. It was a really tough course - toughest I've ever run. But the real test came mid-race when you hit the REAL series of hills. 2 grueling steady climbs then the steep and dreaded "heartbreak hill" then another steady climb. People had written messages in chalk on the streets to help you dig deep and make it up the hills. Spectators picked you out of the crowd and coached you just when you needed it most.

Luckily, one of the most incredible running buddies in the world text messaged me positive affirmations every mile!!! She rocks! Heather virtually coached me all the way from VA!

At this point in the race your legs are definitely feeling it. But amazingly my legs still felt strong!! I never hit "the wall." I never wanted to quit (which had been my experience in before). I never doubted my abilities. I don't have a ton of experience with marathons - this being my third. But I was amazed that the wall never came. I simply thought about all of the amazing runners running alongside me and all the runners throughout the 113 years before me and tried to imagine their stories and their strength. I thought about all the amazing women I now call friends who I've met through seeMOMMYrun.

The final 4 miles of Boston were amazing. Crowds and crowds and more crowds. Energy like you've never felt. The wind picked up and was cold - but no one cared! I pulled out my cell phone and called my husband to tell him I had only a couple of miles to go. Tears welled up in my eyes when I heard his comforting voice. I was feeling no pain. I felt like a champion and so did everyone finishing around me.

Things I think I did RIGHT (for those training for marathons):

1. I did TONS of core and leg strengthening drills during my training (thanks to coaching my fabulous EZ8 runners and Coach Al!)

2. I continued my strength training for upper AND lower body with heavy weights (previous marathons I lightened my lower body weights thinking I would feel heavy).

3. I ate a ton during the race. Luna sports chews, GU, oranges, candy offered along the course.

4. I hydrated well - mostly gatorade at every water stop - even if it was just a tiny sip to wet my mouth.

5. I wore Oiselle running shorts and bra - no chafing and felt as if I was running in nothing!

6. I trained smart but did not overtrain (very important) and I ran only 1 race in the 3 months leading up to Boston.

7. I stuck to a high protein diet with enough carbs to power my workouts but not weigh me down.

8. I asked my friends to encourage me throughout training. When life was busy and I fell off my training plan - I asked friends to kick me back into it. I didn't wait for people to offer to run with me. I asked and asked and never felt bad about asking again for help.

That is my Boston story. I won't even get into dragging my poor 2 and 4 year olds in the car to Boston (9 hours) with me and them falling apart the day before the race. You're a mom. You know how that can go and the most inconvenient times. We all survived.

Train hard. Run Boston if you ever get the chance. Enjoy it.

~Andrea Vincent, founder of seeMOMMYrun

Mommy only fitness

Today I joined a women's only fitness club. Mostly because it was a great price and my 2 year old likes the child care. I got a 30 day pass first and tried it out. I've been going to a gym of some sort for over 20 years and thoroughly enjoy working out with my husband. I think I've always liked the challenge of competing with men too. Goes back to 6th grade when the boy I had a crush on was chasing me for a football and I realized I was faster than him. I wonderered for a second if I should let him catch me and decided against it. My husband is much faster than me, but does not choose to run more than 6 miles (he says he likes his knees). He thoroughly supports any working out regimen I choose to include 20 mile runs on Saturdays while he takes care of 4 children. He's a gem. I'm not sure how long this gym will work for me because my husband is not welcome. I may have to pay more and go back to a gym that takes men.

The Next Big Thing

Arm warmers! I'm convinced that the next fashion fad in running is arm warmers (after the summer, that is). Leg warmers made a comeback, right? So, you heard it here first!

I [also] ran the Cherry Blossom 10-miler this past weekend. I missed having my stroller along - just an itty-bitty bit - because if I wanted to wear any extra clothes to start out, I wouldn't have anywhere to put them! It was a beautiful day, but a little chilly (50 deg F, +/-) when you weren't actually running. I had to wear shorts and short sleeves to run as fast as I could, so arm warmers were the answer! They are standard wear for bicyclists - which I am also trying to become - so it was great! When I got hot, I just tore them off and stuck them in my waistband. I didn't even need to slow down.

I chuckle a little since there are so many problems with trying to transition from jogging with a stroller to racing without one. But if I can figure out the wardrobe, at least that is a start. I used to subtract 1 min per mile from my stroller pace to approximate my non-stroller pace, but I think that the stroller must be getting heavier because I pulled 7:22 min/mi, on average, in the race and I am definitely not running 8:30s or better with the stroller these days.

"Settle": The Cherry Blossom 10-Miler

"Settle" was my mantra, my reminder. Right off, I must write that I had a good time and enjoyed the race. It is a favorite of mine (and thousands of others).

But...

I started out too fast (at sub 7:45s) and drank too much water in the 30 minutes before the start (but I wanted it!). As a result, by mile 3, I developed a side stitch. I tried to breathe easy -- belly breaths through my nose as in yoga -- and slow to 8-minute miles. I thought, "Settle," and let my shoulder's relax and ran a little straighter. But then a fast song came on my iPod (yes, I run with music, always) -- Green Day's "Minority" -- and I picked up the pace again. "Just for this song," I thought.

I swear, I didn't really care about being faster than ever before. I just wanted to enjoy the cherry blossoms and the 10 miles.

When the song ended, I reminded myself, "Settle." I was past mile 5 (and made a port-o-loo stop -- people sure make a mess in those on-course -- icky).

I had the brutal Hains Point bit of the course remaining. Sure, it is flat and has a ton of lush cherry blossom trees. But it is a straight shot south for almost 2 miles. This part is mentally, not physically, brutal. But maybe it has that effect only on me.

"Settle." But then someone passed me. I felt myself speed up, a reaction controlled by some baser instinct. "Settle." What am I, a skittish colt? There are 14,000 people all around me. Some are going to pass me; I am going to pass some. Who cares?

The side stitch was still there, but bearable, though it did now seem to be on both sides of my abdomen. Fabulous. "Settle, settle, settle." The unintended mantra actually seemed to help. Who knew?

Once I made the turn at the point, where The Awakening statue should be but isn't anymore, I felt (almost) fine. The side stitch was a ghost. I passed mile 8 and finished the last two miles in 7:45s. Done and done in 1:18:34.

Free Stuff!

Recently I wrote about a great high-impact nursing bra. If you would like to try this bra for FREE, email me (jen_cortesi@yahoo.com). I'll randomly choose a winner on 4/14/09 and contact you if you are the winner. At that time, you can send me your address, etc. Expressiva Nursingwear will send you one for FREE!

That's a good customer service rep!

Registration is Open for the Army Ten-Miler

Yesterday I signed up for the Army Ten-Miler being held in Washington, D.C. on October 4th. Are there any fellow SeeMommyRun members running it?

Need some Advice

Hello!  I need some help from all the running moms!

I'm am 11 weeks pregnant and have celebrated my "First 2 Days Without Being Sick in a Public Place" by signing up for a 10k fun run this weekend.  (I'm Crazy!)

I'll be pushing my 4 year old in the stroller so my goal is to finish!  Thankfully, there is a costume contest, so if I turn green I could win a prize!

Anyhow - My question is this: what, if anything, do you consume on your runs?  Is there anything that I can not have?  I love to drink NUUN, but it has sorbitol which I'm pretty sure is off-limits.

I also love Gookinaid, but am not sure if it's okay.  What about Gu?  

Cliff Blocks seem like there okay because, well, they say organic and I'm a sucker for advertising (love their new shot block packaging BTW!). 

I never really drink Gatorade well, I don't know why. Ironically, it always seemed like just corn syrup-water to me...although, I kind of know sugar-water is kind of what ALL of the things are.

I know "Ask Your Doctor" is the best advice, but I go to midwifes who aren't necessarily athletic.  I really trust moms who've been there first.  So, any advice?

UPDATE:

Vitalyte (a.k.a Gookinaid) answered my question as to whether or not it was safe during pregnancy (very promptly, I might add!) with the following:

Dear Crumbs,

Thank you for contacting Vitalyte.

Yes, Gookinaid Hydralyte and Vitalyte are safe products for you and your baby.

In fact, Vitalyte has many benefits for mother and baby. Many women find that Vitalyte helps prevent and manage morning sickness. The balance of electrolytes in Vitalyte can help prevent some of the potential complications of pregnancy.

So, yes, please enjoy Hydralyte and Vitalyte as your baby develops.

For more information about Vitalyte during pregnancy, you may wish to consult one of the science articles on our website. From the home page, go to Hydration 101, then Science Articles, then Dehydration in Pregnancy and Morning Sickness.

Best Wishes to you and Baby.

Dr. Bloch

UPDATE #2

Gu Energy is NOT suitable for pregnant women according to THIS WEBSITE

Shamrock Marathon Race Report!

So I need to write an official race report....I don't even know where to begin! What a day! (photo: me at mile 19.)

Thank you for your kind words, good luck emails and post-marathon cheers...I appreciate you guys so much! Someone suggested that I go for a Boston qualifying time next time and since he mentioned it, I'll go ahead and tell you guys what my original pre-marathon plan was. I'll turn 40 a few weeks before Boston 2010 which would mean I'd need a 3:50 to qualify. My original plan (that I totally got talked into because I never would have thought of it on my own) was to run with the 3:50 pacer and see if I could get it. That was the plan until Friday before the race. I started to think real hard about it and I was really concerned that the pace would be too fast for me to sustain for that long so at the last minute, I chose to run with the 4 hour pacer. The morning of the race, my friends were telling me that I should stick with the 4 hour guy until about mile 6 then take off and I could make up the time and still get a 3:50. That sounded like way too early to leave the comforts of a pacer so I decided against that as well. I really wanted this to be a good experience and I didn't want to have any regrets and if I had run with a 3:50 pacer and thus hit a wall, I would have really been upset with myself.

The 4:00 pacer was fantastic. He was really fun and hilarious and kept us dead on a 9:09 every single mile. There were a few times that I felt strong enough that I could go but I kept thinking it was too soon. He said several times that if we felt strong enough, that we should go but to wait until mile 20 or, if we were first timers, even wait until mile 22. I took his advice and at mile 22, left him behind.

At that point, I still felt really, really great. Too good almost. I had a ton left in the tank so I just ran. When I realized that I could make a 3:55, I really turned on the gas. I got water at the 24.5 mark and I think that's where I lost that 30 seconds. I was a little bummed that I missed it by that little but then again, I was just so happy at how great I felt and how strong I finished.

Things that I did that I think really helped:

Pacer. I would recommend a pacer to anyone. It was so helpful. Like I said before, there were times I felt I could have taken off but I stuck with him and he made me glad I did. Having said that, there were times I was thinking about letting up a bit but I was terrified of losing him so I just kept listening to his voice - his corny jokes and crazy songs and before you know it, I felt great again. Pacers are the best people in the world.

Sport Beans: I ate a package of sport beans about 20 minutes before the race then every hour, regardless of if I felt like I needed them or not, ate another package. I really think they helped. I had so much energy, it was incredible.

Water: I made a point to get something at almost every stop. Even if it was just a splash of water to rinse out my mouth.

Pre-race Fuel: I learned my lesson after my first half (Historic Marine Corps in Fredericksburg last year) where the night before, I only had a tiny piece of plain chicken and a small amount of potatoes. I ate a pretty good sized dinner the night before then the morning of, I had two eggs, two plain pancakes, a couple of bites of a bagel and a banana. Oh, and lots of water. Food, food, food.

I'd like to say there was something I did wrong, but I really wouldn't change a thing. I'm happy that I stayed with the pacer for as long as I did because I think it helped me stay so calm - not to mention filled with so much energy. Could I have left him earlier? Yeah, probably, but there is no way I could have known that. I had so many people telling me that the 20-mile mark was "the worst" and that "everyone hits the wall at mile 20!" that I had this huge fear of that point of the race. Note to self: don't listen to other people's horror stories (kinda like child birth)! But I'm glad I stuck with him. I had a really good time, finished strong, finished happy and most important, with no regrets.

On Monday, I had some pain in my left knee. My left IT Band started hurting early on...around mile 6 which had me a bit nervous...and I think it's just left over from that. I also have a very strange pain in the bottom of my left foot that I've never, ever felt before. That pain has me a little nervous but I'm hoping it will be much better by the end of the week. I'm thinking that it was caused by my orthotic because there have been a few times since getting them that the left one felt a bit funky in that arch area. Other than that, I'm good to go! Oh, and a funny thing - my shirt collar must have been rubbing on my neck because I have all these awful chafing marks on my neck right smack dab in the front. Pretty.

So I guess that's about it. Nothing too crazy to report - didn't seen any crazy outfits or anything. It was just a really, really fantastic day and just about the best feeling of my life. And a pretty good after party too! (photo: my husband and I at the after-party!)

I have to give a huge shout out to my husband who drove my friend Amy and I down to the race and drove all over the race course taking photos like my own little paparazzi and my friend Nancy who planted the seed in my brain and even drove down to VA Beach to cheer Amy and I on. You guys are the best!!

Great Nursing Jog Bra

I am now in my 39th nonconsecutive month of breastfeeding a baby and only now have I finally found a nursing bra for high-impact activities, such as running!

Any "sports" bra I've tried from Motherhood (maternity store) has been woefully nonathletic with one exception that appears to have been discontinued and I think that one only really works because it is a size too small.

I've tried the regular sports bras with a zipper on the front for "easy access", but it also leads to easy chafing.

I've even tried the one nursing bra offered by Title 9 Sports, but its stated use is for low-impact activities and they are right.

But it turns out that La Leche makes bras and they are great. I don't know whether it had been there all along and I just found it or if it is a relatively new item, but I highly recommend it. I wore it for the second time today on an 11 mile run with a break at the playground in the middle which included nursing the baby before heading home. It was very comfortable and there wasn't any chafing. It is available elsewhere, but was least expensive at Expressiva Nursingwear.

I considered including a picture - of the model, not me - but thought that might be a little weird.

Marathon Brain

A week from Sunday, I will be running my first full marathon. The Shamrock Marathon in Virginia Beach. Gulp. One week. I'm breaking out in a cold sweat just thinking about it. Remember right after having kids, you would forget stuff and felt like you were in a cloud 99.9% of the time and people would refer to it as "mommy brain"? Well, I have what I can only assume is "marathon brain". I'm seriously floating around in a different world. Every other day, I have to slap my forehead and remind myself of all the day to day things that still need attending to.

My youngest son is turning 6 next Friday. I'm having his party Friday evening, the day before I leave for VA Beach for the marathon. And oh yeah, might want to send out invitations, order a cake and get goodie bags put together. My marathon mush brain is in full effect. I had totally forgotten all the stuff I needed to do! So yesterday, I got all the invitations together, addressed, stamped and mailed. After I mailed them, I realized I didn't put the return address on any of them...whatever, no biggie right? Yeah. No biggie until I realized that I put .39 stamps on them. When the hell was the last time I mailed something?? Marathon brain. So my husband says, "Don't worry about it, they'll get returned by tomorrow or Friday and you can just resend them." Um, yeah honey, that would be true and great and all if I had put the freaking return address on them!!! So. This morning, I am redoing birthday invitations.

Speaking of the birthday boy, he got off the bus with a low grade fever yesterday. He konked out on the couch for 2 hours and woke up with a temp of 101. Obviously no one likes to see their kid sick but right now, I have to admit, this has me way more freaked out than normal because I'm terrified that I'm going to get his bug. He is coughing up a storm, laying on the couch and generally looks miserable. I am a week away from a marathon! Ack! Aside from putting him in a bubble, or me for that matter, I just don't know how I can prevent getting it. Especially since I'm a wee bit stressed out right now which I know opens me up to the bug.

Anyway, last evening, I wrote a quick email to the school letting them know he'd be home today. In my address book, 'absentee' comes right after 'Andrea' so guess where marathon brain clicked? Yup. Andrea. As in Andrea Vincent the fantastic woman behind SeeMommyRun and who I most want to be when I grow up. I'm sure she feels bad for me that my kid is sick, but I'm also sure I didn't need to send her an email letting her know that he'd be out of school today. Helllooo marathon brain.

And here is one more example that marathon brain should be in all medical dictionaries. Wednesday was supposed to be a rest day but since it was so nice out, I decided to run the 6 that, according to the schedule I am following, is on tap for today. I got out there on the path and was a little over a mile out when I realized that I didn't lock the truck. My gym bag with wallet, phone and house keys were in there. Marathon brain. So at 1.5, I turned and literally sprinted back to the car 100% sure that my stuff would be gone. Thankfully it was still there. So much for my 6 miles.

I only hope that my family can survive one more week of MWMB - Mommy With Marathon Brain. It's a wonder they have been fed.

The Psychosomatic Response to Poorly Mixed Energy Drinks

There are some energy drinks (gels, bars, etc.) that are only really palatable when you really need it in the midst of a workout. And then there is that same energy drink mixed with the incorrect powder to water ratio. I'm sure you've encountered it at random water stops along a race course. You might grimace a little, but it is that or nothing, so you gag it down. But now let's say that you were really hurting at that point in the race - totally overexerting yourself - maybe you even yack it up at the finish (sorry), but my point is, every time you drink it in the future, that is the moment you remember, right? And it just never tastes good again.

So, flash ahead to the day my third child was born. My loving and supportive husband (who, by the way, hates anything and everything to do with food preparation) was tasked with bringing stuff to drink because I was busy BEING IN LABOR. Anyway, he mixed it wrong. You know that overly dilute bitter taste. Yeah.

So now that I'm back on my B game, we came home from a ride and mixed up some Accelerade but, as it turns out, he still doesn't measure anything. Wow. Total recall of being in labor. Still tastes bad, but at least the baby is really cute.

I am not Edward R. Murrow

I didn't actually get tagged with this meme on Facebook, but I liked it so much, I had to interview my daughter:

1. What is something mom always says to you? I love you.

2. What makes mom happy? When you kiss her.

3. What makes mom sad? This one’s hard...when you call her a bad name.

4. How does your mom make you laugh? When she tells me a joke or smiles or something.

5. What did your mom like to do as a child? Live in her house and go in her backyard.

6. How old is your mom? 23 (I love this child.)

7. How tall is your mom? 1 foot tall (OK, not THAT short)

8. What is her favorite thing to watch on TV? Baseball games and other games with daddy. (I thought she was going to say The Amazing Race.)

9. What does your mom do when you're not around? I’ve never seen you do anything when I’m not around. (Good point!)

10. If your mom becomes famous, what will it be for? Love.

11. What is your mom really good at? Coloring.

12. What is your mom not very good at? Work. (I beg to differ.)

13. What does your mom do for her job? Make websites.

14. What is your mom's favorite food? The meatballs she just made. (And they were gooooood!)

15. What makes you proud of your mom? When she wins a contest or something. (Which is...well, never.)

16. If your mom were a cartoon character, who would she be? Kim Possible. (Woo hoo! Super spy!)

17. What do you and your mom do together? Play with my connect thing. (She means this marble Rube Goldberg set we have.)

18. How are you and your mom the same? We’re both girls. (Observant!)

19. How are you and your mom different? We both have different eyes. (She's blue, I'm brown.)

20. How do you know mom loves you? Because she tells me so.

21. What does your mom like most about your dad? He’s very sweet and great. (Yes, he is.)

22. Where is your mom's favorite place to go? Los Angeles (I would say St. John, but a trip back home isn't bad every once in a while.)

No wonder I'm so tired...

I'm a the Human Cybertron*.  When I run, I LOVE gadgets.  I love knowing my heart rate and pace and speed and calories burned, etc, etc.

So, now that I'm nearly 9 weeks pregnant (and surprise, surprise: exhausted), I couldn't help but notice that my heart has been beating harder and faster, even when at rest.   I went from a resting heart rate of 42 beats per minute to nearly 60. 

Just for kicks, I strapped on my Polar Heart Rate Monitor yesterday and watched my rate as I went through my normal day.  Man, this whole pregnancy thing is great exercise! ;)  

Here is a sample of how hard my heart was working:

• Transferring wet clothes from the washer to the dryer: 75 beats per minute
  
• Making my son's peanut butter and jelly sandwich while he painstakingly described in detail his dream robot car: 85
  
• Walking our OLD dog around the block: 100
• Getting up to go to the bathroom...again: 70
• Taking dishes from the dining room table to the sink: 95
• Folding laundry: 95

Granted, none of these reached into Aerobic workouts, but dang, just doing everyday things at a slow pace is getting my blood pumping.  I'm glad docs have discounted the whole "pregnant women should stay below 140 beats per minute" otherwise, I'd never be able to shower!

*What are you?

New Feet

Greetings on this fine Tuesday in early March. Today I went to pick up the running shoes I called the local running store to have shipped in for me. I usually buy online after I love my shoes. Last year I got caught in Memphis with no shoes and went into a store and bought per their recommendations and the shoes were ok, but not great. Today I learned new things. Despite my very flat feet-- I do not overpronate. I always thought I did and made a big deal about buying running shoes for motion control and stability. These tend to be stiff. I do need cushion because of all the pavement running. It was great. The gal at the store was a runner and knew what she was talking about. Since I have a neuroma, flat big feet -I'm kind of sensitive about running shoes. I have not been evaluated since 1997-- did not realize feet could change. Of course 3 kids later and yes, my feet got bigger with each pregnancy and despite the fallen arches I can use neutral shoes. Lots of rambling, but bottom line is it is good to go in and get on the treadmill with maybe more than one pro and really spend some time there. Blue skies!

40 push-ups

Okay, I'll throw in the towel, too. Channelmarker, you're off the hook ;-) I'm quite pleased with 40 consecutive push-ups. That's a heck of a lot more than the measly 10 I started out with. I'm looking forward to doing the sit-up challenge next and a modified tricep challenge. The backs of my arms drive me insane!

Mommy needs new shoes

Hello Running Mommies!
It is Monday in Houston and temps in the 40s- low for this time of year. I'm headed out to buy two new pair of running shoes to hopefully get in gear for a late April half-marathon I've yet to start training for. I'm thinking maybe a few marathons, losts of 10 milers under my belt will get me through. My winter funk is my first time ever feeling so out of it. My longest runs are 5 miles. I'm hoping for mercy.

repeating week four

I finished week four, column three very weakly and will repeat it this week. This program is very tedious but it does produce results. Andrea, I expect for you to get back on the wagon!!

http://hundredpushups.com

Understanding Food Labels

If the label says... It means each serving of the product has...

• Calorie free Fewer than 5 calories
• Fat free Less than 0.5 gram of fat
• Low-fat 3 grams of fat or less
• Reduced fat

or less fat At least 25 percent less fat than the

higher fat version

• Low in sat. fat 1 gram of saturated fat or less, with not

more than 15 percent of the calories

coming from the saturated fat

• Lean Fewer than 10 grams of fat, 4 grams of

saturated fat, and 95 milligrams of

of cholesterol

• Extra lean Fewer than 5 grams of fat, 2 grams of saturated fat,

and 95 milligrams of cholesterol

• Light (lite) At least one-third fewer calories or no more than

half the fat of the high-calorie,

higher fat version or no more than half the sodium

of the higher-sodium version

• CholesterolfreeFewer than 2 milligrams of cholesterol

2 grams (or fewer) of saturated fat

• Low cholesterol20 or fewer milligrams of cholesterol

and 2 grams (or fewer) of saturated fat

• reduced cholesterolAt least 25percent less cholesterol than the

higher cholesterol version and 2 grams or fewer

of saturated fat

• Sodium free Fewer than 5 milligrams of sodium and no

or no sodium sodium chloride in ingredients

• Very low

sodium 35 milligrams or fewer of sodium

• Low sodium 140 milligrams or less of sodium

CHOOSE WISELY!

Source: Living Well, Staying Well from the American Heart Association and American Cancer Society

Note: I clicked on the wrong blog. This was intended for the blog I keep for my mother. But it is information we can all put to good use.

Oh, Mama!

(deep inhale through the nose...slow exhale through the mouth)

(deep inhale through the nose...slow exhale through the mouth)

Ahem.  

Remember those nights in college when you'd begin by forcing down cheap beer in your dorm room, then soon it went down much quicker...and before you know it you're tossing back whatever fruity jungle juice concoction your friends handed you in the big red keg cup?

More importantly, remember that feeling the next morning when your head spun, your stomach took it's revenge and you thought you should vomit (but couldn't)? Remember thinking pancakes would soak up your sins but instead made you gag?

Ahh.  Yes.  

That's how I feel this morning.  Only, instead of binge drinking, I've begun growing an itty-bitty sesame seed.  (Between the bloating and the gas, though, I'd swear I was up to an heirloom tomato by now.) 

Exciting - Yes!  Two years in waiting!  But, oh my, I don't remember feeling this terrible last time around (nearly 5 years ago).  Blech.   All the hangover, with none of the humiliating photos.

I've come to the point of my post: how do you do it?  HOW do you get to the gym when you want to just hug the toilet? HOW do you get out the door for a run when you have to pull out Lamaze breathing while bending to tie your shoes?  I want to keep exercising, but man, I'd rather just curl up in bed and read people's status updates on Facebook.  Not that that's a possibility with a 4 year old and a job, but a girl can dream.

How did you survive this trimester?  

Week 4, column 3

Starting week 4, column 3. I think this challenge really helped me hold my own while arm wrestling Thursday as a part of a high-spirited girls' night out!!!

Next time, Lee...next time. Relish your victory now, but next time I'm slamming your arm onto the table!!!

http://hundredpushups.com

A Good Point

Runningfor3, you make a very good point below. I wonder if children of running mommies are better able to sit still later as a result of Sitting Still training from such an early age. What do the rest of you think? I for one can vouch for a supernaturally calm 2 year old. Is this the result of spending so much time a. in the jogger and b. with mommy?

Another point covered by runningfor3, patient walks. We made a very rare trip to the mall yesterday. My little guy walked, albeit slowly, and LISTENED to me. I think this behavior can be attributed to, not to beleaguer the point, but the 90 minute mile. Other kids twice his size where strapped into strollers as their mothers rushed through the mall.

What's your take?

9 months in, 9 months out

After a particularly exhausting week, I realized that I'm carrying (or pushing) around a bunch of extra weight, diverting enough calories to grow a person, and suffering through sleep disturbances. Sounds like pregnancy, right? Except the baby is 6 months old. So, despite being the third child I've nursed, I think, perhaps, I've underestimated at times that I am still growing a child, so maybe don't be so hard on myself. This is tough since my standard for "recovered from pregnancy" has gotten higher with each one.

So, I won't be training for another marathon until Francesca turns one this summer, but my husband and I are signed up for an on-road and off-road duathlon in April. He mountain bikes, I trail run, I ride the road and he runs the roads. Shorter distances (relative to the marathon) but consistent training as a part of one's routine and keeping the foundation strong is key. Helpful for my physical and mental well-being and key for keeping the kids "on board".

Trying to put a 2-year-old in the jogger for the first time because you waited to get back into shape and then convincing him that sitting there for an hour or more is OK, let alone fun, is unlikely. Train them from birth, and they'll be climbing in the jogger every time you turn around. Plus they'll appreciate the good times - you know - when the temp is over 30 F and the run is under 90 minutes.

Push-up check in

Starting week three, column three today. I have to say, I am loving what this challenge is doing for my shoulders!!!

http://hundredpushups.com

This Mama-to-be ROCKS

Not exactly running related - by my goodness, if you didn't get a chance to see it, you should google MIA and Grammy.  

Despite tonight being her due date, she got up on stage and rocked hard.  

Now THAT's endurance!

Careful what you wish for...

I'm always complaining because I can't find any running partners in my new town (that fit my schedule, that is). Monday, however, it didn't just metaphorically rain, it poured.

The other day, I tried to convinced my co-workers at the bakeshop that even absolute novices could enjoy running, if done right. So we set a running date for 6:30 am. Turns out, everyone had wonderful excuses why they didn't make it and I ran a hard, hilly 4 miles all on my own. Despite being stood up, it was refreshing to put in a few miles before mixing a few batters.

When I checked my e-mail upon returning home, I was startled to see a note from another girl from my meetup.com running group confirming that we'd still be doing 4 miles at 5pm that same night: "A slow 11:30 min/mile pace."

Oh, man. I forgot!

Not one to stand up a running partner, even when tired, I strapped my sleepy 4 year old into his stroller. Unfortunately, we blew our goal pace to bits. I dug deep-- I mean, Lamaze-breathing deep; self-hypnosis deep; holding-back-tears deep; I-should-have-eaten-more-cherry-pie-bars-at-work-today deep -- just to keep up with my new 12-years-my-junior buddy*.

"Whew!" she said upon finishing , "That's a minute and a half per mile faster than I've ever gone! You really pushed me! I never could have done that on my own. I hope we can run together again!"

What? What? What? I pushed her?

Funny, we both almost passed out because we were trying to please the other.

I guess I'm not the only one who would do anything for a running partner!

*okay, I'll try to give the hyphens a rest.

Share the Love

I wanted to share a simple/fun way that you can create a little extra happiness on Valentines Day. BTW, I normally don't give into the marketing hype of V-Day, but this year decided to view it more as a good time to volunteer (without being asked to volunteer).

Taking Valentines Day Cards to the Elderly:

1. I called one of the smaller, tucked-away Assisted Living communities to find out the # of residents and if they were doing anything for Valentines Day. This is a community that doesn't have a ton of help, volunteers, or events for their residents. They have 20 residents only.
2. Then I called a larger Nursing Home to find out how many residents they have. They have 200. This is the nursing home where most of the state assisted residents are sent who cannot afford a private nursing home.
3. I have asked 2 different seeMOMMYrun groups for volunteers to have their children make Valentines Cards or gifts for the residents. For the larger Nursing Home we're each making 10 to 20 cards .
4. Myself and a couple other moms will be delivering the cards on Valentines Day with our kids.

This will help foster a sense of compassion in our kids, while cheering up the residents! Residents at Assisted Living and Nursing Homes don't receive nearly enough visitors and smiles and hugs. Bless the staff who work hard to make their lives easier and happier. Bless those who can stop by now and then just to say hello and share a little human touch!

CONSIDER DOING THIS IN YOUR LOCAL AREA. You could even take cards to people in the hospital. The crafts can make great daily activities for the kids! And your heart will smile.

Push-up Challenge- goof up

OK~ I know I hit 40 and all last month but you think I could follow simple directions. I copied the directions for what I thought was week two last week. I seemed so much harder BECAUSE IT WAS.............somehow I managed to copy down Week # 3 Level #3 instead. When I went back to the site today to copy down week #3, realized, I already did it so now do I go back to week #2 , do week #3 again or push on to week #4 (the very least appealing right now as my pec's are moaning. I sure the rest of you follow directions more clearly than I do!

I've lost my mind

It's official. I've lost my mind. Let me explain.

I was a stay-at-home mom for 3 1/2 years for my one little boy and frankly, began to run to keep my sanity. As the story goes, I became obsessed and instead of talking about my boy all the time, I talked about running.

One neighbor of mine (in my last town) was far more sympathetic than others. He was a handsome, slender man in his late 50's who ran farther, longer, faster, and more gracefully than I could ever dream of. His advice was only offered if asked but his eyes always soften in delight when anyone expounded on the joys and pains of running. After seeing him at a few races, I indulged my curiosity and looked up his finishing times. Basically, he finished a 10K faster than my 5K.

My respect morphed into a wee idol-crush when he offered me up a pseudo-scientific nugget explaining the runner's high. I was telling him that I went on a long bike ride and just felt cruddy afterward, rather than joyful like I do after running. He said, rather convincingly, that only running and jumping on a trampoline offer the effects of the Runner's High.  Something about the bouncing and metronome effect.  I think he elaborated more eloquently or perhaps I misunderstood because I was distracted after learning who his brother was, but I've been convinced ever since then that only running and bouncing on a trampoline can kick down a hit of the endorphins I've been craving like a junkie since I sacrificed my running life for a paycheck. 

So, I went from a Half-marathon every other month to calling 5 miles my "long run."  From running 30 miles a week to eking out 8.  Changing climates hasn't helped, either.  Normally, if I didn't have time, I'd wake up super early (I've been known to run at 3:45 am).  But Sisters, I've just gotten accustomed to these hills, I can't deal with 30 degrees, too! (TREMENDOUS respect to those of you who do!!!!)  

This brings me to my original point when I began this post:  I've lost my mind.  I've been "bloated"* and tired and G-R-U-M-P-Y.  I'm totally jonzin' for cardio.

Only, I can't get out for a run, don't have a treadmill, can't figure out how to rig up a makeshift bike trainer, and somehow lost my jumprope in the move.

So I started to jog in place. And jump. And kick.  And bust out "dance" moves from the 80's.  I pumped my arms and pretended I was Footloose.  I exercised my demons** for 30 minutes. It was neither running nor jumping on a trampoline, but dang, I needed that.

*No, I will not call it weight gain until I'm 10 lbs heavier...just 4 lbs to go.

*Get it?

TOTALLY CREEPED OUT!

I just got back from the tennis court in my neighborhood with my kids. The two little ones where in the double jogger which I haven't used in a while. I take advantage of the time the 4 year old is in preschool to avoid pushing two. Anyways, on the way back home the 4 year old started yelling SPIDER.....sure enough, in the canopy was a spider....not only a spider but a genuine black widow. Luckily I got the guys out quickly then got the spider out too. No I didn't kill it. Maybe I should have but I left it about a block from home. I double checked on line that it really was a black widow. I really DIDN'T want it to be. My skin STILL feels the heebie geebies............... I read on the internet that they usually stay outside but in cold weather come into buildings. This has been an unusually cold winter in Eastern North Carolina.
Lesson learned : check ALL the crevices esp after not being used in a while.

Feet Pain

I've been experiencing pain in both of my feet for a while now and, like most moms, keep pushing it to the back burner and ignoring it. I finally decided enough was enough and made an appointment with a Podiatrist. I was getting concerned that the additional miles I'm putting in while preparing for the marathon might be doing more harm. Well, my appointment was today and I have to admit, I was fully expecting my x-rays to show something major. As it turns out, I'm simply an overpronator. He ordered orthotics for me which should be in in about two weeks. Really? Could that be it? Both of my ankles are killing me! And I get occasional shooting pains along the big toe area. Surly there is something more!
Since getting home, I've spent way too much time on the computer and I have to say, most everything I've read about overpronation fits me perfectly. I'm curious, have any of you experienced this? And if so, did a simple orthotic help?

Push-up Challenge Check-In

Okie-dokie. I'm doing the level 2 challenge and my push-ups are modified ('girl' push-ups). So I'm a weakling, I've accepted it:) Today I'm resting. I've completed workouts one and two of week one, tomorrow is workout 3 for week 1. I look forward to being able to do 100 push-ups in-a-row. I'm psyched!

http://hundredpushups.com

Equipment Warning

Use caution when you are using hand-me-down or new-to-you equipment! We had a catastrophic failure of a 2001 Graco Doorway Jumper over the weekend. Luckily the baby is fine and I was right next to her so that after the nylon strap snapped and the spring part fell on her head, she did not also fall to the ground.

I mention this in the context of jogging strollers because large, expensive, possibly occasional use baby items are always tempting to use second-hand. That's fine, but be very careful to inspect these items before using them with your children. I've always heard that 7 years is the max for a car seat and no accidents, but how do you check the integrity of a stroller on Craig's list?

I don't have any authority to say this is a complete checklist, but do check the following:
1. Hand and/or foot brakes. Hand brake cable is just like a bicycle so parts are easily replaced. (I have an old post on maintenance.)
2. Tires are inflated to recommended pressure. Read the small words on the side of the tire to figure out what PSI is recommended for your tires.
3. Wheel spokes are tight and true. Loose spoke nuts can cause flats. "True" means that when you spin the wheel, you don't see a wobble.
4. Wheels are securely attached to the stroller. Either the nuts are tightened or quick-release is snug and, for the front wheel, lever to turned to "closed".
5. Harness for children is in good working order. All clips work, straps are adjusted to the correct positions, etc.
6. There are no loose parts that could injure a child. Loose screws? Stays from the canopy?
7. Runaway strap is attached to stroller and free from any moving parts.
8. No tears in the canvas seats.
9. No excessive rust.

These are also things that are worth checking periodically on your own stroller. Good luck.

A Break From Running Was Just What I Needed

In 2008, I had one very big goal: go from a 5k to not one but two half marathons. On the schedule was the Marine Corps Historic Half in Fredericksbug, VA in May and the half marathon at the Baltimore Running Festival in October. These two races consumed my 2008. I didn't finish feeling very strong in May so I ramped up my efforts, joined a running club, participated in speed workouts at the track and improved my diet. My efforts paid off and I had a great day in October. But then, I just fizzled. I figured I'd take a few weeks off then start running again and sign up for some races. I didn't do much running at all then just before Thanksgiving, participated in the annual Freeze Your Gizzard Cross Country 5k, a race I normally love. I hated it this year. I felt tired. I felt stiff. I just wanted to get out of the cold and go home. So what happened? I think since I spent an entire year thinking and talking non-stop about running, I experienced burn out.

I didn't just sit on the couch though. Instead, I joined a gym and started participating in other activities. I discovered spinning (which I love!), a really great strength training class that I never, ever miss and only ran when I felt like it and didn't put any pressure on myself if I went 2 weeks without running a single mile. Slowly, I got back into it and started running more and more and now, I feel like I'm back out of the running funk. I'm not going to stop doing the other things that I discovered and now love because I think they will help me from burning out again. Also, while I did make another big goal for 2009, a full marathon (gasp!!!), I'm hoping that I'll go a little easier on myself...ease up on the pressure I put on myself in '08 and most importantly, have fun again!

100 Pushups Challenge

Are you with me people? 100 pushups! Can you imagine? Sounds like a good challenge for 2009 to me! All it takes is 6 weeks - 3 short pushup workouts per week. And the workout is FREE, no signups...nothing

Post your name or your "handle" on this blog to make your promise to the world that YOU ARE IN!

http://hundredpushups.com/

Too Cold to Run?

The handbrake on my jogging stroller seems to be frozen until the temp reaches about 35 deg F.
Is this a sign that
a) it is too cold to run?
b) it is too cold to run hills?
c) I should stop being a wimp by using the brake to go slower downhill?

Cast your vote here :)

National Service Day - Jan 19th

Check out http://www.usaservice.org/ to find out what you can do to help out in your local area on "National Service Day" - January 19th. MLK Day has always been a day of service. So if you haven't volunteered on this day before - please get out there and help others in small ways or large. Consider doing something each day that weekend even! Bless those of you willing to lend a hand as part of your lifestyle. Reaching out is good for everyone.

New Year New Run

Happy New Year All:



I woke up New Years Day and realized it was time for another long run. I've weaned the 4th baby and am ready for a challenge, but something has been holding me back and I now know what it is.



I need new running clothes. The old stuff is really worn out. Most of it was worn during two pregnancies where I wore the stuff too long and stretched it out. It has all been washed too many times and just looks ugly and makes me feel ugly. With 4 kids I rarely spend money on stuff for me, but I really need new clothes and the requisite new running shoes. Ok budget here comes the line item for Mommy sanity.



I'm going to run the Kentucky Derby Marathon in Louisville, KY. I have a friend who is running it and it is always fun to train together even if this will be virtual.



So, if you are wondering if something is holding you back. Think about apparel and running shoes to start you off. This is a surprise to me. I'll keep you posted.



Part of my reluctance is that I HATE to shop and online fitting is tough. I even hate trying it on when I'm at the store.

Stuck in the middle with you!

There was a recent article in Runner's World Magazine about what distance race best suited you (http://www.runnersworld.com/article/0,7120,s6-238-244--13007-0,00.html).

The quiz results confirmed that I am best suited for the middle distance. I also realized, however, that training with the stroller best supports that distance (8-13 mile races). While I have strapped a child into the stroller to do 20-mile training runs, I was also just a little lucky that her temperament was suited to that sort of thing and I don't know if I have it in me to push the double jogger for 20 miles. On the other side of things, it is nearly impossible to keep the same posture and biomechanics one would need for sprinting when you are pushing a stroller. So watch out 10-milers! Here I (we) come!

Twitter Junkie or Never Twittered?

Have you twittered? Do you twitter all over the place? Love it? Hate it? Tolerate it?

You can now follow seeMOMMYrun on (http://twitter.com/seemommyrun )! If you have no clue what I'm talking about - go see for yourself.

chirp, chirp!

Washing Dishes~ A missed tradition

For the last couple weeks dishwashing has been, well....almost endearing. I know this sounds crazy but.....
Do you remember the days when everyone DIDN"T have a dishwasher or you, as the kid in the family, WERE the dishwasher?
Do you remember standing at the sink with your mom or grandma washing all the dishes after dinner? The smell of those vintage detergents....the conversations...the re-dues after you missed a spot?
I forgot alot of this in my busy grown up life where I put everything except the pots and pans in the machine that cleans them for me.
I keep liquid dishsoap for those pots and pans. Recently I bought a new bottle of Palmolive...because it was the cheapest one that week on the shelves. I didn't think much about it until the first time I used it.....flooding back came memories of my late grandmother. She was my favorite family member the whole time I was growing up and she only used Palmolive....I think it had to do with the whole "hand softening" thing... http://www.truveo.com/Palmolive-Softens-Hands-While-You-Do-the-Dishes/id/2138972249 Anyways the smell the texture it all transported me back to my childhood and I suddenly "missed" doing dishes.

A few weeks after that my oldest son came home from college for Thanksgiving. After dinner I asked him to help me wash the pots and pans from dinner.....of course we used Polmolive. This chore became a great time of the holiday. He washed, I dried, we talked, I made him "re-due" some and we ended up washing ALL the dishes rather than just the pots and pans. It was a great mom/son one on one moment. Now, I don't think he would outwardly tell anyone he enjoyed washing dishes with his mom but I can tell he did. Give it a try, you might be suprised!

Sick Days

On the Monday prior to Thanksgiving I went grocery shopping and as I entered the store I thought, "I can't do this. It's not fair. It's not right. And there is absolutely nothing I can do about it." And there was nothing I could do about it. My brain felt like sludge and my nose was filled with cement, my mouth tasted like boogers. A mere day later, as all of this nastiness settled into my chest, I began to cough and hack. Ah, but I didn't yet know this aspect of my fate.

When I got home, my son, who had had a minor cough, now had a heavy cough and a runny nose. So off to our respective doctor's we went. Luckily, all he needed was cough syrup. Mommy, on the other hand, needed a full ten days of antibiotics.

And this three days before hosting Thanksgiving. Three days before guests and cooking and, and, and...

I got through it. Don't we always? I mean, really, don't we always just put on a show and save the day.

But my muscles ache. Not from illness, but from lack of exercise and I feel guilty and am not looking forward to the sore muscles once I have resumed my crazy, whacked out, completely obsessed fitness routine. Well, maybe the sadist/masochist in me is looking forward to it just a wee little bit.

Mommies, if you are sick, REST. We make our kids and husbands do it. Pull some of that Mommy Power on yourself. I did. And come Monday, that road is all mine.

Running with my boy- a Mom's happy Day.

What a great feeling!! Yesterday at 8AM on Thanksgiving Day I ran fun 5K run with my 10 year old son, Max. He was so brave, so cute, so determined... just ate my heart up. Max is my high spirited one. He's the one I'm afraid I'm not connecting with as he matures. He's the one I really try not to get out of bed without praying for him. These past two months we've seen a big positve change in him. When I decided to find a turkey trot for me to get out of the house and enjoy my husband I signed the three of us up. The reasons were twofold. I think Max needs some extra loving from us and alone time with the two of us and I was concerned with leaving my 12 year old in charge of him and his younger siblings. I woke him up early, he did not complain at all. We got out there. Usual race environment and fun stuff going on. He looked a little nervous, but did not say anything. The gun went off and he ran a little too fast for my liking and almost a mile in he was upset and not having fun. I talked him into happy and pacing himself. Gave him some tips on form (you could hear his feet hitting the pavement). I made jokes and told him funny things that happened to me during races. I made a joke about the fine line between inspiring and annoying and asked him if he wished he brought an ipod. That sweet boy genuinely looked at me and said, "oh Mom, you're better than any ipod." I just about gushed. I just love that boy. It spilled over to the entire day and we're still basking in the closeness.

Plan B

I now understand the importance of having a Plan B.

Yesterday, I ran the Philadelphia Marathon, my third marathon, but my first in six years (first since getting married and having kids, though I have done plenty of halves and other distances). I was very well trained and my Plan A was a 3:50 finish. I even had my PaceTat (I love these). At the start, I found the 3:50 pace group. I focused on staying with them and missed the first few mile markers. At about 5 miles, I realized that they were running 8:20s-8:30s, far faster than the intended 8:45s. (Do I misunderstand what pace groups are supposed to do?)

I decided to drop off and do my own thing since the group was doing more harm than good. But some damage was probably already done. I knew I was in a little trouble before the halfway point. But I grit my teeth. I knew I was going to see my 4-year-old and my husband at the half. (My 17-month-old was with my husband’s aunt, inside, warm, and fussed over.)

Plan B was a sub-4:00 finish.

At about mile 16, I decided that I would take walk breaks at every water stop. It was so cold (maybe 30 degrees by then – it had been around 25 degrees at the start) that walking at the water stations was a good idea anyway; the road was covered in ice from the inevitable spilled water. A friend who was also running found me walking at the station near 18 miles. She was cheerful and looking great, with a blue fleece scarf waving behind her. I picked myself up and ran with her for three miles. I owe her a drink, dinner, something for perking me up.

Then I decided that I would walk for a minute every mile (in addition to very water station) and stretch my quads, which had turned to rock. My friend went on ahead.

At mile 23, the 4:00 pace group passed me. I drew on every last bit of strength and pure stubborness and joined them, determined to run the last 3.2 miles with them, without walking. And I did. As I passed Boathouse Row, I knew less than a half mile remained. I pulled away from the pace group and climbed the last little hill wrapping around to the front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. As spectators closed in (reminding me of the Tour de France crowds on the mountain stages – that I’ve seen only on TV) and yelled “Adams!” (my last name, ironed on to my shirt), I raised my arms and roared, “Yeah!” (Yes, I was losing it a bit by then.)

I finished in sub-4:00, just: 3:59:12.

I can’t believe I did it.

The Need for Speed

One often hears about endorphin-highs and people who are addicted to exercise. I definitely feel better - physically and mentally - after I've had my workout for the day, but I think it is my kids that are addicted. Let me explain. Our weekday routine generally consists of walking my eldest daughter to school, going on a jog of variable length with the stroller, and then heading home. The baby always falls asleep during this evolution, though the 3-year-old is just along for the ride. I've observed that on days when we skip this because I've run by myself on a Sat. or some similar interruption of our routine, everyone is just a little crankier than usual. The baby doesn't nap well and the 3-year-old is out of sorts.

So, now that we are revisiting cold weather, I'm finding that this dependence on the stroller has adjusted my tolerances. In an earlier blog about cold weather running, I think that I defined my minimum temperature for taking a baby in the stroller to be about 40 deg F. This year, with this baby, we are redrawing that line at 30 deg F. Poor baby #3...*

*Don't worry, this baby is well-protected by the cold with a snowsuit and blankets and wind/rain shield. She sleeps like, well, a baby :)

Rut Mommy Rut--

I have been avoiding this site as I've been in a rut since August. I think I've run a total of 6 times and maybe did Bodypump 10 times in that time. I'm afraid of the scale, but mostly I think I've lost my identity. Running is really my identity. An old boyfriend looked me up on email-- he was a sweetie and in the 20 years since we've spoken I've surely done a lot, but I mentioned running two marathons as important. How very odd. I did send back pics of the husband and kids so I'm not completely shallow.

I think there is a Mommy Running group near me. I'm going back to the web site and sign up now. My almost 2 year old would like it and weather is no excuse here. Funny thing is I'm not 200lbs. Surely I thought I'd be 200lbs plus if I were not frantically running around. I'm happier running though and do not have my fallback of living among an athletic community to inspire me. It has to come from inside me. Ok, here goes, time for me to sign up!!! I'm going to find a turkey trot too.
Best,
Trice

Season of Thanks

About 1 month ago I sprained my back, my husband left for Iraq, my oldest son was giving me alot of grief. ....... I managed to justify a full fledged pity party that was worsened by the fact I couldn't even exercise to relieve stress........... I also ended my 2 year maternity hiatus from being a nurse. That was the thing that smacked me back into reality. I have been reminded over and over again over the last couple weeks while teaching in the Emergency Room just what a great life I have as do most of us.

Yes, my back has been hurting, but I am fortunate enough to be able to feel it. Unlike a young paraplegic I recently was fortunate enough to care for.

Yes, I am sad my hubby is in a war zone ~~ but I am lucky enough to be able to be married and to a great guy who dedicates a large portion of his life for the protection of others. Many never find "the right one"

Yes, my oldest is going a bit crazy~~ But I am so grateful that he has the physical capability to do stupid college things. He could be in a wheelchair or worse.

Yes, my other 3 boys can be overwhelming some days~~ But how lucky I am to have them and watch them grow, although too quickly. So many want but can't have children.

Yes, I run slow, no matter how much I run, I just won't ever be fast~~ But at least I have legs that CAN run at all. I got back out there today for my first post sprain walk/run and now I am loving my sore muscles because I have the ability to make them sore and the ability to feel it.

I hope you all have a great Thanksgiving Holiday, we all have so much to be thankful for.

Confessions of a Baker Runner

When my child was born, I discovered that I didn't have to fight in the corporate world any longer and I could do what I enjoyed: Baking (hence the pen-name).  I've mostly been a black-market baker, baking and selling out of my home kitchen, but I've also worked in a cafe.   I have a less-than-healthy relationship with Sugar, Flour and, most of all, Butter.  As I always say: I love baking, so I've learned how to love running.

Now that I've settled into a new town, I don't have the connections I once did.  Besides, baking in my rental home with an inconsistent oven is much more difficult.  So, I've found a proper job in a proper kitchen.  

Here's where reality has turned itself on its head.  Now, it's no longer "I love baking, so I've learned to love running."  Now it's, "I love running and is baking going to get in the way of this?"

Now that I'll be working out of the home for 4 days, in the wee-running-hours-of-the-morning, will I be able to keep up with my training, have enough energy for my 3 1/2 year old,...oh, and remember what my husband looks like?  Do you see how crazy my priorities are?!?  I'm actually trying to figure out if I'll have enough time to commute to work on foot.

I'm a cookie monster!!!!  

Let's Race

When I'm not in peak shape, I often think of races as a waste of money. Why pay someone to go on a run I could just as well do by myself if I don't have a chance of winning anyway? Generally I can't bring the stroller, so I have to find a sitter or my husband and I have to take turns.

Well, a lot can be gained from running races even if you are not particularly close to the top.

5. Many races are beautiful courses that are not accessible under normal conditions.
4. Particularly for longer distances, the support is nice so you don't have to carry water, etc.
3. It is a goal to aim for that can really help motivate you to get out the door to train.
2. Improves your speed.
1. The whole family gains enthusiasm for running.

My husband and I run in a lot of races so we signed the kids up for a local Halloween Costume Fun Run. When they've done it themselves, they can start to better understand the need for Mommy to practice before her big race. Plus, we hope that they stay interested in running as they get older. It is good for their health and it is an activity that the whole family can do together, even as the kids outgrow the stroller. Now we'll see how that works out...

Addendum: The very next day, the kids were sprinting back and forth in the driveway (in the rain) while chanting, "The marathon, the marathon!"

let me tell you something

Man - What a run!  Yesterday, oh around 3pm, I decided to sign up for the Keller Williams Run For the Water 10 Miler happening 7am today (Sunday).  You see, I'm running San Antonio's Rock & Roll Half Marathon next weekend and I needed to get one last 8-10 mile run in...only I knew I was going to be HIGHLY unmotivated to run on this morning if I went out on my own.  I haven't convinced anyone to join my See Mommy Run long run group yet, so normally I'm covering milage all by myself.  I'm tired of my thoughts.  I don't find myself witty.  

Plus, extinguishing what little ambition left flickering was the Dead Milkmen.  My FAVORITE Band for all those pivotal teen years, was putting together a reunion show on Saturday night in AUSTIN of all places.  How could I not go see them?!?!?!*  SO- a late night and a boring run didn't seem to add up to 8-10 miles in the morning.  

A race would be the only thing getting me through it.  And MAN what a run it was:  a long view of the lake, rolling hills, a few challenging climbs, and Jr. High kids dishing out sarcasm with the cups of water.

Of course, I drove the people around me crazy with my incessant need to talk (sorry!  I'm backlogged!)  I took it really easy, knowing next week I want to turn on my jets.  This was, after all still supposed to be just a training run.  Turns out, all those hill and speed workouts I've been doing are really making a difference:  I was taking my sweet time (and walk breaks) yet still came in 10 minutes faster than I expected.  Here's to hoping it's a good sign for next week!

*They lived up to my imagination and I'm not afraid to say jumping jesus on a pogo stick...i like you.

Why Didn't We Think of That?!?!

I LOVE this idea.

Shirt That Races.

You Are So Inspiring!

Yes,  YOU.

You, a mother who finds time to fit in runs between diaper changes, or feedings, or driving your kids to soccer practice.  You, who was so busy looking for your family when you crossed the finish line that you forgot to stop your watch .   You, who stayed up until midnight to make tomorrow's school lunches so you'd have time in the morning for a tempo run.  You, who carries all your running partners keys and water bottles in your stroller because you've got room.

You are pretty cool...and inspiring.  And I'm sure you've got some running tips you've discovered along the way that other moms would find interesting.

Marathon Mama wants to hear from you.  She's writing the book we've all been waiting to read.

The purpose of the book is to illustrate the ways that running and motherhood transform each other. The book looks at the connections that mother-runners draw between these two aspects of their lives, in terms of their day-to-day experience, identities, and sense of community.

So, go on - check out her blog for more details and offer your story.  

So I did the marathon.

8 months prior to the 33rd Marine Corps Marathon, I had baby #2 via C-section. 2 months later, I decided it would be a good idea to sign up for my 5th marathon.
Now, how to train (and shed those extra pounds). Well, there are the seemommyrun groups...there is a FREE charity training group (and you don't have to fund a charity)...there's Hal Higdon online...So I tried to do all of that. And then the ear infections hit. And the fevers. Sick kids put a damper on the best laid plans.
I ended up getting about 3 days a week in. I took days off of work for those long runs, but still only made it up to 16 miles before getting a nasty case of strep myself...which lasted for 3 weeks, right up to the week before the marathon. Great!
2 days before race day, I mapped out a course to cheat. I really did! I went out for a run, made it about 10 minutes with my beaten up lungs, and mapped out a course to cut out a few miles.
Then race day came. I hoped for a good running day. I woke up at 4:45 and arrived at the Pentagon IN THE DARK. It was dark! And cold!!!! So we waited. I used the Brooks VIP restroom (which really wasn't all that, but it WAS warm). I moved with my sister in law to the 4:15 pace group, thinking at least I wouldn't be at the back of the pack. I'd have a head start! My sister in law WHO IS 29 and childless finished in 4:16. I won't state my time.

Now the good stuff:

1. I didn't cheat! You can't cheat on race day! You lose all bragging rights and it can't truly count as a completion. I couldn't live with myself.
2. The weather was the best weather ever.
3. I kept a fairly decent pace throughout the first 16 miles, which is as far as I had trained.
4. I finished. The bus didn't meet me at the bridge!
5. It's not even a week later and I am fully recovered.

This race is reminiscent of my first marathon, especially time-wise. I am calling it a re-building year. I needed the goal of a marathon to get my body back in shape post-baby, and now I am preparing for the next one: Philly in 2009.

I enjoyed myself, and I proved to my son that I could get out there and do it. Honestly, I think that is what got me through. This was Harry's 4th marathon he's been to in 4 years. He gets to experience that there is such a thing, and all different types of people can complete it. I bought him a book about Miles, the MCM mascot which explains the marathon, and he couldn't have been prouder about his experiences when he took it to school the next day to share it with the class.

A father and daughter team were running near me for a few miles. their shirts read "Father" and "Daughter." I thought that was so great. My own father has spina biffida. He walks with a limp, but he won't be running any marathons, so it's not something we can do together, but Harry and I are BOTH looking forward to our first marathon together. I can't wait!

Dust Dust Dust

Now that my half marathon is done and my fun trip to Austin, Texas to participate in the LIVESTRONG Challenge has past, I thought it was time to get back to thinking of my house before my miles. Oh. My. Gosh. Seriously. I had no clue just how bad it had gotten! I spent the entire day cleaning today! I had dust bunnies the size of cows up in here! I need to sign up for another race because I had totally forgotten just how much I hate cleaning!

The Yoga Face

Way back when, when I was an early 20 something, tall, thin (think really thin. no. think thinner than that. I'm telling you, go thinner than that. okay. now you're close. 5'7" 119 lbs. disgusting.) and so wonderfully young, I was pretty sure that I'd never get old--old being over 30. However, in the event that I did, I would never ever ever try to hide my age or be ashamed of it.

Well, let me tell you. Being over 30 happens. Gray hair happens. Pregnancy does a funny thing to your hips and breasts and it takes quite a bit of effort to make the whole thing look voluptuous and, well, effortless. The one thing I wasn't ready for was the face slide, the droopy lids, the stern mouth. (or, as my daughter says, Don't look at me like that! Trust me, honey, if I could wipe this look off my face, I would...)

Yesterday at the library The Yoga Face literally jumped off the shelf at me. I tried it last night and already today I looked at myself in the mirror and winked! It's amazing.

Make sure you do it where nobody can watch you though. I'd hate for your Yoga Face workout to become an Internet viral sensation!

6-wheel Circus

What has 10 arms, 10 legs and 6 wheels? My whole family out on a run!
(That is 2 adults, 3 kids and 2 strollers.)

When we had just one stroller, whoever was faster at the moment, depending on who was training for what or whether I was pregnant or not, would push it to slow him/me down. This is the conundrum that my husband and I have encountered when trying to run together.

There are four possible scenarios:
1. If the woman is pushing the stroller and the husband is struggling to keep up, he's a wimp.
2. If the woman is pushing the stroller and the husband is clearly faster, he's a jerk.
3. If the man is pushing the stroller and he is clearly slower, he's a control freak.
4. If the man is pushing the stroller and he is clearly faster, he's a show-off.

What's a guy to do? ;)

So now that we both have to push a stroller if we want to run together, I'm glad that I can keep up (i.e. save face) for the shorter distances, at least, despite the 2-month-old baby!

childbirth and marathons

I am an anxious person. I had relatively easy pregnancies. But, both times, I was so anxious about giving birth that the experiences became harder. I dreaded the actual day. How was I going to get through it, be strong enough, remember all the advice and training? I feel as if all the latter went out the window once actual labor began.

Both times, my blood pressure went way up (it is usually low), either when labor began or in the day or two before my due date. The midwives did not think “preeclampsia,” though they monitored for that. They, and I, knew it was anxiety. My mind over body powers are enhanced by anxiety. I swear that the anxiety prevented regular, productive contractions during my second labor, which was induced. The monitors did not help. When I was un-hooked from them, my contractions improved (if “improved” can possibly be the right word here). In the end, the painful pitocin was necessary (but quick!).

Unfortunately, I am feeling the same way about the Philadelphia Marathon on November 23. I have not run a marathon in six and a half years. I have started three and finished two marathons in my lifetime. The first was the best experience and time: New York City in 1999. The second, New York in 2000, I did not finish (calves turned to stone at mile 19). I ran the third, the National Marathon in DC in 2002, with a pace group; the pace leader was focused on catching us up to the clock (isn’t that what the chip is for?), that we ran each mile 20-30 seconds faster than advertised, and I had to slow way down and even walk some after mile 20.

I want to get it right this time. But my anxiety may psych me out. I know I am a strong, determined runner. And I’m even kind of fast. I followed my training schedule and am well-trained. (Though I do feel a little beaten down by the training, but that is why we taper for three or more weeks, right?) People do this all the time and even have fun – which is what I want. (And I’ve not heard anyone call childbirth “fun.”) So I need to calm the heck down, right?

My First Yasso 800's

Since I'm new in town (read: desperate to meet people) and am tired of being in the back of the pack, I made time in my schedule to meet up with a running group this evening that puts on free track workouts. (Yes - FREE COACHES! Austin is a runner's dream!)

After a mile or so warm-up run to the "track*," and a few shuffles here and there to prepare the rest of the muscles, Coach announced we'd be running Yasso 800's: Select your marathon goal time and run approximately a half mile using that number.  Say you want to run a 5 hour marathon: run your 800 in 5 minutes.  4 1/2 hour marathon goal?  4:30 minute 800.

This was my first time and I really enjoyed it...in a sadomasochistic kind of way.  We did four and I managed to pull out an average of 4:14.  Guess that means a 4 hour 14 minute marathon**, and if it can be applied to half-marathons, a 2 hour 7 minute goal time.  Since I'm aiming for a 2:11 next month at San Antonio's Rock and Roll Half, I think I'll make time for next Tuesday track practice too!

Has anyone else tried the Yasso 800?  What were your results?

*Doh!  The Junior High we planned on running at had a school football game, so we ran the roller-coaster street behind it.

**Considering my one and only marathon was WELL beyond the 6 hour mark, I should be skeptical.  Of course, I have come a long way since then...literally!

Let the Race Begin

My run today was to the local polling place to cast my early vote! Let the race officially begin!!!!

That's Amore!

My son has not taken to speech at the same lightening speed as his older sister did, but he tries. This morning from the jogger he was fascinated by the beautiful full moon! (Yesterday was my birthday...my mother tells of the tremendous full moon that sat fat and heavy in the sky on the night of my birth...wait for it...many moons ago) Anyway, he kept pointing towards it and saying, "Bah!" (Allow his mommy to translate: "Look, Mommy! Did you ever notice that the full moon looks like a ball?!") So naturally I mentally sang to myself: "When the moon hits your eye/like a big pizza pie/that's amore." Over and over and over again while he pointed and said, "Baa!"

It was a good run.

Now What?

On Saturday, I ran in the half marathon held at the Baltimore Running Festival. It was an incredible day - perfect weather, lots of happy people and a very successful time. I'd been training for this race for the past 4 1/2 months and essentially, it's all I've been thinking about. And now, well, now I think I've got a case of post-race blues. I've not felt this before because after my first half, back in May, I right away started thinking about Baltimore. This is totally different. I'm wandering around in a fog and don't quite know what to do with myself. My legs were pretty sore after Saturday's race because there were some killer hills but now I'm feeling pretty good so I suppose I could run. Or maybe take up something new like yoga. Or spinning. Hmmm.... Help! What can I do to lift my fog?

The 90-minute Mile

My daughter is in kindergarten at the neighborhood school this year so we've been walking back and forth. The younger two kids generally ride in the stroller on the way over in the morning so we can go on our run after we drop her at school, but in the afternoon, the baby rides in the infant carrier and both the 2 1/2 - year old and the 5-year-old walk. Some days are slower than others. The kids like to play with sticks as we go. Sometimes one is eating a snack as we meander home, but the other day I timed it and projecting the pace into "runner's terms," we were doing a 90-minute mile! Wow! That is slow. Painfully slow. It is hard, as a grown-up, to walk that slow.

So, "Why torture yourself?" one might ask. I think that they are learning a good lesson. Walking is good exercise. It is better for the environment than driving. It is a nice opportunity to talk about our day. We can watch as the leaves start to change colors. It is a routine that they can expect everyday. I think that it is even good for their self esteem to see that they can accomplish this - because sometimes they find it difficult...or so they say.

It is also good exercise for me since sometimes I do have pity and give piggy-back rides. My 2 1/2-year old coined it a "Mama sandwich" with the baby on the front and the toddler on the back! I continue to have the highest respect for Sherpas (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sherpa).

Grand Dad ran me in!

I ran a 10 K today out of Camp Lejeune. Around the 5 1/2 mile mark I was getting a bit fatigued and bored. Just then, another runner caught up with me and struck up a conversation....nothing big, just a bit of chit-chat. He was a bit older than me but I had no idea his age. He got me throught the final stretch. As we crossed the finish line at the exact same time the staff was shouting happy birthday to him. I turned and asked, "Wow! Is it really your birthday? How young are you?" His answer...................................SEVENTY FIVE!! What an inspiration! I was so impressed. They handed him a water which he insisted that I have first. A true gentleman. I was so happy for him.......but I really need to speed up!!

Ahem, I am a Mommy Runner

Wheww, ok move stuff done, Hurricane Ike leaving us without power for 12 days done, 3 weeks of poison ivy all over my body- prohibiting runs and any exercise done. I'm ready to get going. I'm watching the other Mommies in the morning and have asked one to run with me next week. I feel like I'm in the 10th grade looking for a new friend. Wish me luck. I need a running Mommy real close by. No Army comfortable shoe to put on and find other runners. I'm in the real world now and must step up literally and figuratively....

It's Here!

This weekend is the The Phedippidations World Wide Festival of Races!!!

Way back in June I posted the challenge.

Think Nike Human Race, only grassroots style (and free).

I'm definitely doing the 10K. ANyone else?

I'll Only Run to There

Am I the only person who runs 'Only to THERE' (that lightpole, that stop sign, that bush, to the top of the hill) while assuring myself that once I get 'THERE', I will stop, when I know good and well that there is another THERE waiting after this one and I'm not fooling anybody...if I space my THEREs then the run will be longer than if I didn't. After all, once you get THERE then THERE really isn't that far.

It's a runner thing, right?

A Run With a View

When running gear companies film commercials, they often show clear blue skies and crisp air cool enough for gloves & a hat yet perfect for shorts.  The runners are focused but have just enough curl in their lips to show inner contentment.  Film crews should have been at the Army Ten Miler on Sunday morning.

Approximately 20,000 lined the perimeter of the Pentagon and wound their way past monuments and parks for brisk 10 mile tour on foot.  There were brass bands and adoring families on the sidelines; stories of infantry reunions and demonstrations of remarkable comebacks.

There was also another moment worth recounting, though it could hardly be classified under "inspirational" or "commercial worthy."

It involved a struggling runner, who, deceived by the cool air, went out way too fast and was hurting near mile 8 (that would be me).  It also includes an old friend who eternally considers herself coach & running mentor to everyone pounding the pavement.

Well, when Coach noticed that my head was pretty close to giving up on my goal time, she directed my attention to the most perfectly round, tight-enough-to-bounce-a-coin-off-of-it, beautiful rear end on a man about 15 feet ahead of us.  She said 'chase that bottom and don't let it out of your sight.'  For a good half mile, we cracked up about stalking a random body part and I forgot I wanted to slow down....but then HE started to slow down significantly.

Coach jumped into action.  She pounced on our 'hare' and told him that this race wasn't just about him anymore.  He's got people counting on him.  "I have a friend in this race that is watching that perfect butt of yours and if you slow down, SHE slows down, and if SHE slows down, I slow down.  Now, get your head in the game and lead this team to the finish line!!!"

I'd like to think that he picked up his pace based on the flattery (rather than fear), but never-the-less in an instant: two struggling strangers became partners under Coach, indivisible, with empathy and blisters for all.  One, a handsome black man humbly striving to lead and the other, a painfully embarrassed plodder, trying not to appear as pathetic as she felt.   In that final mile, we ran side-by-side glancing at each other to make sure we'd both finish (and to silently concur that Coach's effortless trot was annoying). As we came around the closing turn, we both screamed "OH THANK GOD! and clutched hands in an enthusiastic shake.  

In a sea of remarkable finishes- runners who found strength from the memory of lost friends or who battled war wounds- depending on a Perfect Butt (or knowing someone is literally watching your backside) can seem pretty shallow, but, hey, we can't all have epic stories!

Running with Three

A reader recently inquired about how I was running with three kids. I should clarify.

First point, they do make triple joggers. I have a couple friends, God bless them, who actually run with three kids across. Wow. These strollers are expensive, however, but very useful when all three kids are too young for school. You will not fit through doorways with this stroller!

Second point, when I chose the witty name "runningfor3" I did not actually know I was pregnant with my third child yet so I was counting myself. Sort of like the time my husband and I purchased a brand new lightweight tent for all those long backpacking trips we were going to do. Then I figured out I was pregnant about ten days later. Sure, that tent has gotten a lot of use...

Third point: If I have all three kids with me, I can't actually run, but I can walk with the infant in a carrier while the other two ride in the stroller. Transporting 90+ pounds of children plus equipment is not really enjoyable though you will feel the burn AND possibly earn your honorary Sherpa status.

Solution: Divide and conquer. I run while Turkey #1 is in school. Sometimes on weekends, I take the baby or the baby and another so Daddy doesn't have to deal with all three at the same time. I have friends that have taken their kids to do track work. Park them right in the middle and then you can seem them all the time as you run in circles.

PS. There is also the stroller playdate. If you can find a friend that has an older child in school and he/she can push one of your kids while you push the other two. That could be fun for all.