(Mostly) Wordless Wednesday

Goal - 10 miles @ MP (10:24)

Actual - 10.03 miles @ 10:22

BAM!

Why I Love the RLRF Program...

Not that long ago I was suffering in the depths of a major running funk. I've been running for quite a few years, but stepped it up when I quit smoking about 4 years ago. As most of you know, 99% of my training is done on the treadmill. So it is usually SUPER boring and repetitive. I was in a rut where even running just a few miles was a struggle and felt way too hard. RLRF has changed that. No. Seriously!!

After a sorta craptastic tempo run last Wednesday, I'm happy to report that my scheduled 20 miler on Friday was a complete success. I even beat my goal pace by :12 per mile AND ran an extra .5ish. Sweet!

I had the weekend off from running since it was A's birthday, and had my speed work planned for Monday. However. I caught some sort of stomach bug and was up with the chills and puking most of the night. Needless to say, my Monday run didn't happen. This morning, I squeezed in a trip to the gym, and had a pretty complicated run on schedule:

Goal: 10-20 min warm up easy @ 10:53, 3x(2x1200 @ 6:28, 2 min RI), 4 min between sets, 10 min cool down easy @ 10:53. 

Which translated into me doing this:

Actual: 1.87 @ 10:43, 1200 @ 6:32, .12 @ 2:00, 1200 @ 6:26, .16 @ 2:00, .25 @ 4:00, 1200 @ 6:26, .15 @ 2:00, 1200 @ 6:26, .15 @ 2:00, .25 @ 4:00, 1200 @ 6:26, .15 @ 2:00, 1200 @ 6:26, .15 @ 2:00, .25 @ 4:00, 1.00 @ 10:34.

Total: 9.00 in 1:33:19

What? 9 miles? Really? Certainly didn't FEEL like 9 miles. And I like that. I never ever thought I would say 9 miles was "pretty easy" or "went by fast." That's awesome.

Where am I going with this? Well, I've never used a training program. I wasn't sure I would like the structure of it all. But you know what? I really like it. There are times where I think I stop sooner than I need to, or don't push myself harder.

***

As an aside. I'm really on the fence about my crazy idea of running a 100 miler at the end of March. If I'm going to attempt this, I probably should step up my mileage a bit. Anyone ever run 100 miles? Any tips? Thoughts? Suggestions? Deterrents?

Miss A Turns 6!

How time flies... A and I had a super busy weekend doing activities for her birthday.

Pancakes at IHOP

Puss In Boots

McDonald's (Blech)

Denver Zoo

Sweet Tomatoes

Candy Cane Hershey Kisses!

Chipotle

Birthday Dinner

Nintendo DSi

A Justin Bieber Barbie?!

Anticipation of...

...Pierced ears

We did a pool party at the local rec center with friends and family. No pics at this time since I was in the water. It's been a whirlwind weekend!

Not all great... I was up sick last night. Chills, achy body, and way too much vomit :-/  I feel a bit better today, but skipped my speed work. Tomorrow, friends.

We Have a Winner!

The winner is... Anais from "Legally Goofy." Send me an email at squirrelgirl44(at)hotmail(dot)com. I can either mail you the physical card or just email the code off the back, let me know your preference.

Been a crazy few days over here... so that's all for today!

Congrats to Anais!

Confessions of a Failed Run

I have done every single RLRF I've planned, with the exception of one a few weeks ago, when I stopped after a few miles because my calves were aching, and a second time. Today. Pretty disappointed in myself. I really pride myself on not giving up in a workout, no matter how rough, but today... well, I was done.


Monday was EPIC. I had been "challenged" to run 20x400s, which is outside the RLRF program, but I felt I was up for them. Here's what I did:

Goal - 1 mile easy @ 10:54, 20x400 @ 2:05, 2 min RI (walk), 1 mile easy @ 10:54 

Actual - 1 mile easy @ 10:45, 20x400 @ 2:04, 2:03, 2:01, 2:00, 1:59, 1:57, 1:56, 1:55, 1:54, 1:53, 1:51, 1:50, 1:49, 1:48, 1:47, 1:50, 1:50, 1:56, 1:56, 1:55, 1 mile easy @ 10:26

Total run - 9.35 miles

Took only one quick break off treadmill to re-fill my water bottle. This was so insanely crazy hard. The first 12-13 weren't so bad, but then I really felt weak and light-headed. I was kinda thinking I was going to faint or fly off the treadmill. The last ones were DEFINITELY work. Since I have to start at 0.00 mph and work my way up, those "fast" 400s are actually at an 8.9mph pace (CRAZY FAST FOR ME!!), which is 6:44. I think I did at least 6-7 of them sub 7:00. That's insane, no wonder I was ready to die.

So there was that. Then. There was today.

Goal - 1 mile easy @ 10:53, 4 miles @ 9:33, 1 mile easy @ 10:53
Actual - 1 mile easy @ 10:45, 2.55 miles @ 9:29, 1.83 miles @ 10:57

Total run - 5.38 miles in just under 55 minutes

I really have no excuse other than my legs were tight and tired. I paused the treadmill to stretch and when I jumped back on and it wasn't any easier... well, I stopped. I had hoped to at least complete the 6 miles scheduled, but A had a special day at school where I was able to meet with her for lunch and go with her to the book fair, so that took priority. Next time.

I have a 20 miler scheduled for Friday. I'd really like to be at 100% for that.

Run This City!

OK, I know I'm always going on and on about how much I love my Razzy Roo headbands. She has added some new SUPER CUTE holiday bands, and then these... she calls them "Run This City" bands.

Are those awesome or WHAT?? I love them!! If you are planning on running Texas, you should pick one of these up. Use the link at the top of my blog and save yourself 10% on your entire order!

200th Follower Giveaway

This is just a simple thank you to my followers. I did not get this donated from Apple or iTunes. Thanksgiving is coming up, and one of the things I am thankful for is my dedicated blog followers. Thanks to all of you I have received advice, support, and most importantly - made friends. To show my appreciation, I'm giving away a $25 iTunes gift card.

I won't "force" anyone to be a follower just to get this, although obviously that would be nice. Only requirements for an entry? Tell me something that you are thankful for.

BONUS ENTRIES:

If you are a follower, you know I recently had a biopsy (that thankfully turned out to be negative for cancer). I think that cancer research is VERY important, but I don't have any specific ties with a charity. However, one of my very good friends (most of you probably know her), Heather, has a daughter with leukemia. Heather is raising money for PCRF to run the Cinco de Mayo half marathon in May. Anyone who is kind enough to donate through Heather's fundraising page will earn a bonus entry for every dollar donated. Information about the PCRF charity and their goals can be found here. Please leave a separate comment stating amount of donation.

I'll close the giveaway next Friday at 5:00 pm MST and announce a winner shortly after.

CELEBRATE!!

Lucy is turning 12! They are having an AMAZING sale - 25% off!

Click here to find a location near you. OR... you can also buy online, and get FREE SHIPPING!! I've got my eye on tons of their products. Especially the cute little purple skirt :)

I got my test results back today, and YAY, it is benign. However, I will still have to have surgery to have the mass removed, but it is still a HUGE relief. Thanks everyone!

First long run of the newest RLRF training cycle. 18 miles at MP+30... which for the new paces I'm running was a 10:54 pace. The first hour was cake. No problem. Second hour, a bit more tough. The last? Awful. I barely forced myself through it. But... 18.19 miles in 3:15? I'll take it :)

I am over 1200 miles already for the year. Which means I've surpassed last year's mileage, and it's only October... I don't think 1500 miles is in reach though.

And... in celebration of my 200th blog follower, I'll be announcing a little giveaway tomorrow.

Three Things Thursday

1. I am so so so so so jealous of everyone that gets to run/experience the NYC marathon. I'll be watching Silly Girl and T from Racing With Babes. Who else can I stalk??? As for me? Next year, people. Next year.

2. Now that I am back to reality (fall racing is done, I only have a few races left this year), I can really dig back into the RLRF program. I adjusted my goal paces based on my faster half marathons I ran a few weeks ago. I managed a decent (faster) tempo run on Wednesday and have BIG plans to run 18 miles at MP+30 on the treadmill tomorrow. Don't be jealous...

3. Spring catalog for school is out, and I'm SUPER DUPER excited. If I register fast enough, I can get back to back classes and only have to go TWO days a week. Woot!!

(and BONUS... I got my 200th follower today. Thank you!!)

October Rewind

Miles Run - 139.23. So obviously most of this was racing. I didn't do a whole lot with the RLRF program because of how much I raced. I only did one day of speedwork and I think only 2 tempo runs.
Races Run - 8 (1 marathon, 6 half marathons, 1 5K)
PR's Set - Zero. But. I finally ran TWO sub 2:10 races, which I haven't done since March! That felt GOOD. And a third race was in the 2:11 race. Cooler temps and RLRF?? Maybe.
Minutes of Plank - 104. I missed five days of planks this month. I think this was the first month I've skipped since maybe June. I was just TIRED after some of these races, and I also tend to forget if I'm traveling.


November is actually a tame month for races. I have two half marathons scheduled (in one weekend), and that's all. I had contemplated a local half marathon this weekend, but I'm skipping because I'm tired and because it might snow (and I'm a total wimp with snow). Maybe will do a turkey trot with A if the weather is decent.


Outside of running...


I wasn't entirely sure if I was wanting to bring this up or not. But it is sorta bugging me, so I will. I was recently directed to an OBNOXIOUS website (getoffmyinternets - abbreviated to GOMI) that basically attacks bloggers. On one hand I suppose I should be flattered that out of the dozen or so "runner blogs" mentioned, mine is one of them. But seriously, someone actually says: "Her 'quest' makes me want to punch her in the face." Really? You don't even know me. And you are THAT worked up over a BLOG? You are under NO obligation to read it. Further comments referring to essentially abusing A for "forcing" her to race and "forcing" her to pose for pictures and "logging" all her miles. More complaints include my "obnoxious, expensive, color coordinated racing outfits" and being "nitpicky" in my race reports. Also "who the **** is she and why is she so impressed with herself."


My initial reaction? Wow. Welcome to the Junior High of the internet. Who are THESE people that think it's perfectly ok to bash someone behind their back? And if they are so offended by me and my blog, why not post directly TO my blog instead of using a fake name on a bitchy forum? But what really got me is this: "Becka is constantly complaing (sic) on FB her unemployment, how she can't find a job, how her ex doesn't give her money, etc." Which essentially means that one of my FRIENDS is contributing to this junk website. I have no patience for immaturity of this level. So if you are one of those people, either have the balls to comment to my blog, or in an email, or to my FB. I can't stand people who can't stand behind their judgements. And seriously, unfriend yourself. With friends like that, who needs enemies??


Part two of all this... I won't go into too much detail about anything right now, but I had a biopsy on my breast today, and the doctor was "concerned" about the lump. I won't find out until Friday (or Monday) the results, so for all I know it could be nothing. But to all you people that THINK you know me and want to judge me, just STFU. I have problems, just like everyone else. You are no better than me, and I certainly don't claim to be better than anyone else.


Why do I run? Because most of the time I enjoy it. I know I'm not the fastest, but that doesn't mean that I don't try my best and try to improve myself. Who cares if I wear bright colored outfits and match with my sister. How on earth does that affect anyone else? I like bright colors. I don't like to wear boring black. There is nothing wrong with that. I have met a lot of really cool people through running. I have made friends across the United States because of running.


Why else do I run? Because in 2004 I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Because in 2007 I quit smoking after being a pack a day smoker. I run because I am healthy enough to do it. I run because one day I might NOT be healthy enough to do it.


So if you want to hide behind a generic handle and talk shit about people who are getting out there and DOING something, then I really feel sorry for you. That's just pathetic. I will be living my life, as healthy as I can, and I'll be having fun while doing it.


(Anyway, please think good thoughts for me, I'm really freaking out about my biopsy results. I honestly thought it was just a precaution and now I'm panicky and scared)

Big Hit Half Marathon (Race Recap)

Louisville, KY

Sunday, October 30

Half Marathon #49
State #41
Weather - Really chilly, hovering around freezing. Overcast.

The drive was LONG. It was L’s turn to drive, and I kept dozing off. Even though I tried not to, since I know it is annoying and lonely to be driving with no one to talk to.

We stopped a few times to get drinks and gas, but we pretty much drove all the way through, and managed to get to an Applebee’s within 20 miles of the hotel (on the way) around 7:30. Dinner wasn’t quite as good as last night, but judging by the complaints of THREE tables around us, we were pretty lucky that our food was “ok.”

Got to our motel around 8:30, L was in bed within about 15 minutes. I stayed up reading, and then had a mild panic attack when I spent about 20 minutes on the race’s website and could not find ANYWHERE where they allowed race day pick up. Finally found it, and went to bed.

Tossed and turned ALL night. I woke up probably 5 times in the middle of the night, constantly checking the clock. Still one of my nightmares is that I will oversleep and miss a race. L didn’t sleep well either, she thinks it was too hot in the room. I had turned the heat up pretty high, that was a possibility.

Get ready, head out. It feels even COLDER than yesterday. My phone says it is 33 degrees. That’s about what it was like in Colorado. BRRRR. We have no trouble finding where we need to go, we are able to drive right up to the gates of Louisville Slugger Field. We parked literally about 20 feet from the start line. Awesome. There was no signage indicating where we needed to pick up our bibs, so we ended up walking about halfway around the field before we found it. Got our bib, and then had… about an hour to kill until the start. 

Louisville Slugger Field

Remember how we parked RIGHT BY THE START? We pretty much dozed off waiting for the start. Went to the bathroom at the potties RIGHT BY THE START twice, and with 3 minutes to go, walked to the start.

Start Line

Cycled through the bathroom line one more time, and about 10 minutes late, the race started. This time there were timing mats, and we had lined up with the 10 minute per mile pace sign, and of we went. The first mile of the course was in the city by the river and a lot of it was running under the highway. Slight turn right before the first mile and we head up a hill. Mile 1. Then a right turn and the course flattens out. Only. That pain in my calves? Back. And seemed to include my thighs too. I wanted to walk. Curse L for being so fast. I didn’t want to give up and walk – I haven’t the last three races, so I figured I’d hold out the best I could until the first aid station. Got passed by the 2:10 pace group. That sucked. It was still SO early. My legs were just super tight/cold.

First aid station right before mile 2. I stretch a bit off to the side, and luckily the pain went away. The next few miles went pretty well, flat and we ran by a “haunted house” and a cemetery, then we ran downtown a bit, where the ¼ marathoners split off from us. We headed to the right for an out and back, and the course here was NICE. Really flat and again, the changing leaves. I’m such a sucker for fall! I just wish it wasn’t so COLD. My hands were FREEZING. So yeah, I was still wearing my awesome free gloves from yesterday.

Speakers played the theme to "Halloween" in front of this spooky house! About mile 3.

The aid stations were spaced pretty well apart, but around mile 6, I felt I had to use the bathroom again. Damn! But at least no wait, in and out pretty fast. Then we head under a few bridges, up a HUGE overpass and out by the University of Louisville Cardinal Stadium. There was GU at the turnaround, and I had to mess with my socks because I could feel them bunching up under the ball of my foot. Annoying!! Back up the ginormous overpass, and then heading back down the same residential road. Flat!

Somewhere around mile 5 (and 10ish)

U of Louisville Cardinal Stadium - turnaround

The rest of the race actually went really well. I felt we were running a good pace and I wasn’t super tired, and we were actually passing people. And I really like that. Right after the marker at mile 12, I feel something, and turn around, my headband had come off. WTH? That has never happened before. I’m pretty sure it was because I kept flipping my sunglasses up and they probably pushed my band back too far. Either way, L kept going, and I never managed to catch her again. That last mile was ridiculously hard. Even though there was a slight downhill, I had NOTHING left. All I could think was… when this is done, I don’t have to race again for weeks. This race also ended on the field, running across home plate! L smoked me even more than yesterday. WHERE DOES SHE GET ALL THAT ENERGY??? Oh yeah. She is faster… lol.

Yep, the "free" gloves again!

Cross the line, and they are giving out instant results. Get our medal, water, bagel, so a few quick pictures, then head out.

Loved the cool chairs!

Bib #1440

Official Time – 2:11:54

Official Pace – 10:05

Overall Place – 572

Gender Place – 202/443

Division Place – 39/81

Garmin Time - 2:11:55

Garmin Distance - 13.09 miles

Garmin Pace - 10:05

Mile 1 - 9:24

Mile 2 - 11:28 (most horrible mile ever)

Mile 3 - 9:57

Mile 4 - 9:48

Mile 5 - 9:53

Mile 6 - 9:43

Mile 7 - 10:57 (bathroom)

Mile 8 - 10:53

Mile 9 - 9:31

Mile 10 - 9:59

Mile 11 - 10:02

Mile 12 - 10:00

Mile 13 - 9:26

Mile 13.1 - 10:01

Nice medal!

For an inaugural race (ok, any race), this was REALLY good. Plenty of aid stations and course support was excellent. They had speakers set up in various places playing music. They marked every mile AND had timing clocks. Course well marked and went through the city AND a nice residential neighborhood. Good medal and efficient with timing/results. And again, can’t really go wrong with finishing on a field. Wish I would have placed, THOSE lucky folks got Louisville slugger baseball bats!

Getting back to the hotel? Again, easy. We had an extended check out, so we didn’t have to rush to get out of there. We finally headed out around 11:45, and then started the drive to Nashville, even though we had hours and hours to kill before our flight.

We stopped around 12:30 and had lunch at Ruby Tuesdays. Sliders and French fries and a salad. Wow, I’m eating fabulously on this trip! Get back on the road, stop again a few miles down and get Dunkin Express at a gas station. Not quite the same thing as a free-standing location, but I think I made L a pretty decent caramel latte. I just had regular coffee.

Then we found an activity! Ever been to Dinosaur World? It was pretty awesome. Featured “true to size” replicas of maybe three dozen dinosaurs, located on a nice walking path. It took us about an hour to walk through, and it was nice to be out of the car.

Bone from an Ultrasaurus

T Rex looks hungry...

THESE were cool.

Woolly Mammoth Garden

Trail we walked around Dinosaur World... looks nice to run on!

Drive in to Nashville, and by the time we filled up the car and dropped it off, it was about 4:00, with our flight scheduled for 6:45. You might be thinking… this sounds like a pretty smooth trip so far. Well, security was a breeze, we get to the gate, and our flight is delayed. Only 10 minutes. But L has to leave straight from the airport in order to get to work by 10:30… and those 10 minutes are pretty important since it is nearly IMPOSSIBLE to get out of DIA in less than 30 minutes. Not to mention taking the shuttle to get your car? That can easily take another 20 minutes… We postpone dinner until 5:25, and have the chicken, bacon, swiss sandwich. TASTY. And more fries. I’m going to have to diet after this weekend.

Get to the gate just after 6… the flight is delayed ANOTHER. TEN. MINUTES. I think L might lose it. Then, no kidding, the flight is delayed an HOUR. Just when I think L's head is going to explode, a miracle occurs, they manage to get a new flight crew. We are out about 25 minutes late, but the flight is uneventful. I have a beer thanks to my free drink coupon, we land, and L manages to get to work 10 minutes early. How's THAT for cutting it close??