Last day of the year. Last run of the year. Last race of the year. Last post of the year.
I chose to finish my first year of serious running with the Resolution Run, a 5K race and the only one that wasn't officially chip-timed. This would cap off a year where I participated in a 10K race, a half marathon, and the Chicago Marathon.
There was a nice buzz in the air, everyone was there to have fun and share the last run of the year amongst some beautiful historic Toronto buildings. Yumke and R raced today too. We started together. By start, I mean we took our first three steps together and then Yumke was off like The Flash. The route (approximate map link) was nice enough and gave me the opportunity to wave to each Yumke and R twice along the way. The second time I saw Yumke was after he had made the turn at the halfway mark and I had yet to get there. I had started to count the number of people on the other side of the pylons. He was in 15th place at that point.
I stopped twice this race, once to tie my left shoelace, the second time to tie my right shoelace. But despite these slight annoyances, I felt strong the entire way. The finish felt best (doesn't it always?), and I think I always find a little bit of energy to be able to sprint through the finish line. I hadn't actually looked at my watch once throughout the run. I could see CMan at the finish line, always a boost. And dear Yumke, who was waiting a couple hundred meters from the finish line and, always my personal cheering squad, yelled: "You're going to break 30 minutes!"
What?!
I didn't have a race plan and I think I started a bit fast because I felt slower in the middle Ks. But by virtue of this being my first 5K race, I was automatically going to PR anyway so I was just running to run. Little did I know I was going to even exceed even my own expectations. My 5K training runs have usually taken me about 36-47minutes to complete depending on the route, my mood, the weather, what I ate.
Today: 27:19.
Happy New Year!
Sunday, December 31
Friday, December 29
Envelope please.....
I handed my sister, M, two Christmas envelopes yesterday. The first one had a card. It said:
I handed her a second envelope. It contained printouts to Hal Higdon's 10K program and also his beginner 30/30 program (30 minutes of exercise for 30 days). Then I told her the dates in the first card were for her choice of a 10K race. Whichever one she chose, I would pay her entry fee and run the race with her. Every step. I also asked her to pick a day of the week -- except Tuesday because of my Afterwork RunClub commitment -- and I would accompany her on that day's scheduled mileage. That day is still up for discussion. Her next question: do I have to give up drinking?
M has been complaining about her weight (she's not fat, not even close, but don't ever try to rationalize weight with any woman), and how she doesn't want to spend (waste?) money on a gym membership. So she's been bugging me about taking her running because she's seen me gradually morph into a "skinny minny". And she was really proud of me, cheering me on in Chicago, and I think deep down, she probably wants to experience that kind of runner's high of her own, her own seemingly impossible achievement to call a victory. And hence me pushing her, via Christmas gift the season of giving, to run by investing in her. Quality sister time coming up next year. We'll start with a trip to the local shoe store in the new year to get her proper running shoes.
So, the choice of races I threw at her were partly selfish on my part, I admit. It's a sneak peek into my 2007 Race Calendar because I'm thinking I'll do all three, or at least Choices 1 and 2. I'm 95-percent ready to commit to a Big Race but not quite ready to admit it yet. Maybe in a couple of days when I'm really comfortable about declaring something.
Originally, I was going to just sign her up for the October race, figuring nearly 300 days to train for a 10K would be more than enough for her. But maybe she would step up to the challenge of a spring race?
So, I offered up my favorite spring 10K, Sporting Life,because it's the fastest, possibly the easiest course -- all downhill! I've done this two years in a row. And then there's the Zoo Run in October. Partly because I think it'd be fun to run around the zoo. And also because she loves animals. Free admission to the zoo after the run. That's awesome! (We'll smell like the animals anyway, won't we?)
And I chose the May 27 race because it coincides with a possible spring half-mary I'm considering in our nation's capital, Ottawa. Road trip! Apart from a marathon and half-marathon option, there's also 5K, 10K races too, and even a 2K. (I suggested she could register for the 2K to see what racing is like in a very achievable distance for her to aim for, boost the confidence, that kind of thing. Then we could graduate to a 5 or 10K race. Because although I had run all of 3 races -- an 8K, and two 10Ks, sprinkled among very inconsistent efforts in building mileage -- before I flippantly decided to go the distance and run a full marathon-- my sister is not me: ie: crazy.) She has time to learn how to run, ease her way through a training program, maybe starting in March after her birthday. Or start in the summer when the weather's good. She'll be more than ready to tackle a 10K by October. I know it.
M sent me a short email today, saying: "I just wanted to thank you again for the present... it's a great motivator and I'm definitely going to do it! It'll be a really great experience and finally force me to stop complaining and get me off my butt. You rock! Thanks, dude. And see you out on the street!"
Next step: get her into the blogosphere too.
Choices:She read it three or four times. Maybe she thought we were going on a trip. In some ways we are.
1. May 6, 2007
2. May 27, 2007
3. Oct. 13, 2007
You can do it. I'll be there every step of the way!
I handed her a second envelope. It contained printouts to Hal Higdon's 10K program and also his beginner 30/30 program (30 minutes of exercise for 30 days). Then I told her the dates in the first card were for her choice of a 10K race. Whichever one she chose, I would pay her entry fee and run the race with her. Every step. I also asked her to pick a day of the week -- except Tuesday because of my Afterwork RunClub commitment -- and I would accompany her on that day's scheduled mileage. That day is still up for discussion. Her next question: do I have to give up drinking?
M has been complaining about her weight (she's not fat, not even close, but don't ever try to rationalize weight with any woman), and how she doesn't want to spend (waste?) money on a gym membership. So she's been bugging me about taking her running because she's seen me gradually morph into a "skinny minny". And she was really proud of me, cheering me on in Chicago, and I think deep down, she probably wants to experience that kind of runner's high of her own, her own seemingly impossible achievement to call a victory. And hence me pushing her, via Christmas gift the season of giving, to run by investing in her. Quality sister time coming up next year. We'll start with a trip to the local shoe store in the new year to get her proper running shoes.
So, the choice of races I threw at her were partly selfish on my part, I admit. It's a sneak peek into my 2007 Race Calendar because I'm thinking I'll do all three, or at least Choices 1 and 2. I'm 95-percent ready to commit to a Big Race but not quite ready to admit it yet. Maybe in a couple of days when I'm really comfortable about declaring something.
Originally, I was going to just sign her up for the October race, figuring nearly 300 days to train for a 10K would be more than enough for her. But maybe she would step up to the challenge of a spring race?
So, I offered up my favorite spring 10K, Sporting Life,because it's the fastest, possibly the easiest course -- all downhill! I've done this two years in a row. And then there's the Zoo Run in October. Partly because I think it'd be fun to run around the zoo. And also because she loves animals. Free admission to the zoo after the run. That's awesome! (We'll smell like the animals anyway, won't we?)
And I chose the May 27 race because it coincides with a possible spring half-mary I'm considering in our nation's capital, Ottawa. Road trip! Apart from a marathon and half-marathon option, there's also 5K, 10K races too, and even a 2K. (I suggested she could register for the 2K to see what racing is like in a very achievable distance for her to aim for, boost the confidence, that kind of thing. Then we could graduate to a 5 or 10K race. Because although I had run all of 3 races -- an 8K, and two 10Ks, sprinkled among very inconsistent efforts in building mileage -- before I flippantly decided to go the distance and run a full marathon-- my sister is not me: ie: crazy.) She has time to learn how to run, ease her way through a training program, maybe starting in March after her birthday. Or start in the summer when the weather's good. She'll be more than ready to tackle a 10K by October. I know it.
M sent me a short email today, saying: "I just wanted to thank you again for the present... it's a great motivator and I'm definitely going to do it! It'll be a really great experience and finally force me to stop complaining and get me off my butt. You rock! Thanks, dude. And see you out on the street!"
Next step: get her into the blogosphere too.
Thursday, December 28
Quick 5K
I went for a run after work today, as planned. L, the only other member of this Afterwork RunClub, and I went out for the second day in a row. We were going to do the same route as yestereday, but a last-minute schedule change forced us to cut the distance to 5K. Just as well because my legs felt like lead today. Maybe those epsom salts, which are supposed to ease muscle tension, don't work. Then I picked up my race packet for this Sunday's 5K Resolution Run, which included this sleek running vest and a running cap.
Wednesday, December 27
ARC is back in session
Afterwork RunClub resumed today after a brief hiatus last week due to laziness on my part, and sickness on my Running Partner's part. A 5-mi run through the largely deserted streets of downtown Toronto. Guess we were among the few that had to work today while everyone else was still spending their gift cards. I can't complain though, I was off the last seven days, burning through a chunk of vacation time with nowhere to go.
We struggled a bit at the start, then L found some kind of holiday guilt-induced speed because she was hopping along swiftly and I was having trouble keeping up with her. I hadn't stretched enough following the Christmas Day Run I think so I was feeling it a bit too. Plus I was up late last night and hadn't gotten enough sleep. All that equals sluggishness. Still.. we finished earlier than we thought we would, which makes us think maybe we should have done our usual 10K goal distance.
We're going to go again tomorrow.
And I had a good long Epsom salt bath. I'm ready to go again.
We struggled a bit at the start, then L found some kind of holiday guilt-induced speed because she was hopping along swiftly and I was having trouble keeping up with her. I hadn't stretched enough following the Christmas Day Run I think so I was feeling it a bit too. Plus I was up late last night and hadn't gotten enough sleep. All that equals sluggishness. Still.. we finished earlier than we thought we would, which makes us think maybe we should have done our usual 10K goal distance.
We're going to go again tomorrow.
And I had a good long Epsom salt bath. I'm ready to go again.
Redesign
Welcome to Jelly's redesigned blog. It was time. This whole project began as a motivational tool -- to make myself accountable to me (everything looks more "official" if it's on paper, even virtually) during my quest to complete the 2006 Chicago Marathon.
And now that I've accomplished that, I am still asking myself what's next. I have a few ideas but not willing to put them out here yet (because then it'll be "official", savvy?) I have said that I would consider repeating Chicago next year but now I am also toying with the idea of another city for various reasons.
But in case I do not chase that "26.2-mile Goal" again, I thought it would more honest to rename this space. And change the aesthestics while I was doing a rethink. Plus move over to this beta business (fingers crossed I don't become one of those betavictims I've been reading about elsewhere). And frankly, the pink was getting to be a bit much, even for me. So now there's less pink. But still the same content. It's about my running life. (And in some stretches... the lack of one! ... there's that honesty again.)
But.I.Will.Still.Run. It's part of my life.
There's it's official.
And now that I've accomplished that, I am still asking myself what's next. I have a few ideas but not willing to put them out here yet (because then it'll be "official", savvy?) I have said that I would consider repeating Chicago next year but now I am also toying with the idea of another city for various reasons.
But in case I do not chase that "26.2-mile Goal" again, I thought it would more honest to rename this space. And change the aesthestics while I was doing a rethink. Plus move over to this beta business (fingers crossed I don't become one of those betavictims I've been reading about elsewhere). And frankly, the pink was getting to be a bit much, even for me. So now there's less pink. But still the same content. It's about my running life. (And in some stretches... the lack of one! ... there's that honesty again.)
But.I.Will.Still.Run. It's part of my life.
There's it's official.
Tuesday, December 26
It's here! But.....
The good: My marathon plaque arrived just in time for Christmas as I hoped. Notice I got myself another medal!The bad: It's in Kentucky (Since it's free shipping only to US addresses my sister and brother-in-law said they'd be happy to pick it up for me when they were there for Christmas with his folks.)
The ugly: It's imperfect!It's definitely going back to the manufacturer. Maybe they'll ship it to me here in Canada for free... you know, for the inconvenience of waiting even longer now.
Monday, December 25
A Jolly Jelly Christmas
Before I stuffed myself with all the good (read: high caloric) food on this day, I convinced myself to go for a run. Not because of my mad lib of a holiday poem the other day. Okay, maybe a little. But I had to today of all days, because really, I went to the trouble of packing my running gear... because the only activities planned for the estimated next 12 hours I'd likely be spending at the family homestead were playing Trivial Pursuit (Millenium Edition or Pop Culture 2 were the choices) and gorging. And since I'd mapped out a shorty 5K course for myself this morning... well... that's just premeditation.
I'd passed up too many "good" running days this past week despite my best intentions. The Tuesday Afterwork RunClub was canceled too, and I never made up that mileage. It's not on tomorrow either -- it's still a public holiday in Canada -- but the plan is to go on Wednesday instead when my regular work schedule resumes (boooooo!). So anyways, when I announced to my parents I was going for a run before our guests were arriving in the late afternoon, my dad was all to eager to go too. He dragged out his bike and introduced me to usual neighborhood route. It's a route that winds its ways through the newish park behind the house, past my old primary school, past the houses of friends from Grade 3 whose names I barely remember, around the newer development where there were once hydro fields. My dad usually does this route about 8 times on his bike. Today we would do four variations of this route. I wished I had brought my Garmin with me for an accurate reading. We were out for about an hour so I figure we covered about 10K. I felt strong the entire time. And then we opened presents when we got back.
Merry Christmas, Festivus, Kwanzaa, Hanukkah, and Monday to all!
I'd passed up too many "good" running days this past week despite my best intentions. The Tuesday Afterwork RunClub was canceled too, and I never made up that mileage. It's not on tomorrow either -- it's still a public holiday in Canada -- but the plan is to go on Wednesday instead when my regular work schedule resumes (boooooo!). So anyways, when I announced to my parents I was going for a run before our guests were arriving in the late afternoon, my dad was all to eager to go too. He dragged out his bike and introduced me to usual neighborhood route. It's a route that winds its ways through the newish park behind the house, past my old primary school, past the houses of friends from Grade 3 whose names I barely remember, around the newer development where there were once hydro fields. My dad usually does this route about 8 times on his bike. Today we would do four variations of this route. I wished I had brought my Garmin with me for an accurate reading. We were out for about an hour so I figure we covered about 10K. I felt strong the entire time. And then we opened presents when we got back.
Merry Christmas, Festivus, Kwanzaa, Hanukkah, and Monday to all!
Saturday, December 23
A Holiday Poem
Oh the weather outside is frightful
And it's making running quite a handful
Even if it's windy, rainy, or there is snow
Jelly go! Jelly go! Jelly go!
Christmas mania is fully hopping
But that doesnt mean the mileage should be a-stopping
After presents are wrapped and topped with bows
Jelly go! Jelly go! Jelly go!
All we can do is try again next week
A smart and structured plan is all I seek
And the Resolution Run is apropos,
Jelly go! Jelly go! Jelly go!
And it's making running quite a handful
Even if it's windy, rainy, or there is snow
Jelly go! Jelly go! Jelly go!
Christmas mania is fully hopping
But that doesnt mean the mileage should be a-stopping
After presents are wrapped and topped with bows
Jelly go! Jelly go! Jelly go!
All we can do is try again next week
A smart and structured plan is all I seek
And the Resolution Run is apropos,
Jelly go! Jelly go! Jelly go!
Sunday, December 17
Banner week
It's been a good week for running. Not once, but twice, I put together back-to-back outings. The weather was simply too good to pass up and I'm sure we'll get hit hard eventually, but as I've said all week -- taking advantage! I got out for an easy 5K yesterday afternoon. Just a steady trip around the neighborhood with the intention of doubling that distance with the Sunday running group.
So this morning I rolled out of bed and saw grey sky. But it was a balmy 10C and within half an hour I was ready to go. I arrived at the meeting spot and found out there was a 10K race this morning. I wasn't about to register -- mostly because I had no cash or credit with me. And I didn't want to race today. Or did I?
Luckily there were still a couple of groups going out today. The half-marathon group was doing 13K today, but I didn't like the route they were doing. So I went with the 5K group that was doing a 5-1/2K route. Good enough, I thought. Five of us ventured out. They were a beginner group, having just graduated from the "learn to run" program. They were nice and chatty the entire way. About halfway, one of them noticed my longsleeve shirt -- my Chicago marathon souvenir.
Today's Running Partner: Did you run that?
Me: Yes. It was awesome. I highly recommend it if or when you choose to run one.
Today's Running Partner, in awe: What are you doing running with us then?!
Me: I'm not training for anything. This is maintenance, and frankly, I'm not even sure I can call it that since I run so sporadically these days.
Today's Running Partner: We just started running like six weeks ago.
Me: Well, you're doing quite well. I started a year ago.
Today's Running Partner: What do you mean you ran a marathon after just one year? Are we holding you back?
Me: Trust me... you guys are more my pace. And yes, I'm a little off my tree for jumping straight for the marathon -- though I did my first half-mary leading up to the big race. I picked an online plan and stuck as honestly as I could to it. It seemed to work, but it was hard. No doubt. But so worth it.
Okay.. so they were slightly slower than my slowest comfortable pace, but I remember back in the day when I struggled with the faster kids. I still do. But they were a fun group. We reached home base and stretched out a little bit.
And then I was feeling a little bit unfulfilled. Because I guess I had come into today with the intention of running at least 10K. So after the group left, I jogged back down to the boardwalk and did another 6K by myself. I thought about doing the same course we had just finished, but in reverse. Then I crossed paths with some of the 10K racers who were making the last turn to the finish line. I cheered a few of them on, and then maybe I somehow fell into race mode, because I zeroed in on couple of runners down the road from me and I desperately wanted to catch them.
I caught one, and by the time I reached the next runner, we were within sight of the finish line. So I just ran beside him, encouraging him to push it just a little bit more. Someone yelled "three minutes!" ... and I realized that as we made the sprint through the finish line, that had meant 3 minutes before the clock hit the 1-hr mark. It was kind of neat to hear people cheering at the end of your run, even if it wasn't really for you since you weren't part of the race but one can still pretend. I love this community spirit of runners.
So this morning I rolled out of bed and saw grey sky. But it was a balmy 10C and within half an hour I was ready to go. I arrived at the meeting spot and found out there was a 10K race this morning. I wasn't about to register -- mostly because I had no cash or credit with me. And I didn't want to race today. Or did I?
Luckily there were still a couple of groups going out today. The half-marathon group was doing 13K today, but I didn't like the route they were doing. So I went with the 5K group that was doing a 5-1/2K route. Good enough, I thought. Five of us ventured out. They were a beginner group, having just graduated from the "learn to run" program. They were nice and chatty the entire way. About halfway, one of them noticed my longsleeve shirt -- my Chicago marathon souvenir.
Today's Running Partner: Did you run that?
Me: Yes. It was awesome. I highly recommend it if or when you choose to run one.
Today's Running Partner, in awe: What are you doing running with us then?!
Me: I'm not training for anything. This is maintenance, and frankly, I'm not even sure I can call it that since I run so sporadically these days.
Today's Running Partner: We just started running like six weeks ago.
Me: Well, you're doing quite well. I started a year ago.
Today's Running Partner: What do you mean you ran a marathon after just one year? Are we holding you back?
Me: Trust me... you guys are more my pace. And yes, I'm a little off my tree for jumping straight for the marathon -- though I did my first half-mary leading up to the big race. I picked an online plan and stuck as honestly as I could to it. It seemed to work, but it was hard. No doubt. But so worth it.
Okay.. so they were slightly slower than my slowest comfortable pace, but I remember back in the day when I struggled with the faster kids. I still do. But they were a fun group. We reached home base and stretched out a little bit.
And then I was feeling a little bit unfulfilled. Because I guess I had come into today with the intention of running at least 10K. So after the group left, I jogged back down to the boardwalk and did another 6K by myself. I thought about doing the same course we had just finished, but in reverse. Then I crossed paths with some of the 10K racers who were making the last turn to the finish line. I cheered a few of them on, and then maybe I somehow fell into race mode, because I zeroed in on couple of runners down the road from me and I desperately wanted to catch them.
I caught one, and by the time I reached the next runner, we were within sight of the finish line. So I just ran beside him, encouraging him to push it just a little bit more. Someone yelled "three minutes!" ... and I realized that as we made the sprint through the finish line, that had meant 3 minutes before the clock hit the 1-hr mark. It was kind of neat to hear people cheering at the end of your run, even if it wasn't really for you since you weren't part of the race but one can still pretend. I love this community spirit of runners.
Wednesday, December 13
Taking advantage
I haven't actually closely looked to confirm, but I think this is the first back-to-back run I've put together since training for Chicago. Because L and I fell short of our goal distance of 10K yesterday, we decided we'd lug our gear into work and try to go out again, particularly since the weather seemed to be going in our favor -- we couldn't pass up these opportunities. It turned out to be a gorgeous afternoon, as the sun peeked out after a morning drizzle. But by the time we started, the sun was going to bed and it was a little bit cooler than expected. Still, we set out with a newly-designed, and fingers-crossed safer, 5-mile route through some residential areas. It turned out to be very safe, not highly lit, but without too many pedestrians or cars to dodge. We very much enjoyed today's run and I also felt much more swift-footed than usual.
And of course, this made the party I went to after the run much more guilt-free! Oh rewards.
And of course, this made the party I went to after the run much more guilt-free! Oh rewards.
Danger Tuesday
I haven't quit running but I'm certainly not keeping up with my plan. (I haven't even been keeping up with the happenings of the blogosphere. Apparently I have some 346 posts to read....) Best laid plans just became an afterthought sometimes, especially during the holiday season. I've hosted two parties on consecutive weekends, and attended three others in the past two weeks. At least three more to go. So I now confess I feel a little bit of that normal holiday guilt as I've ingested far more cheese puffs, crab cakes, and glasses of festive cheer than made efforts to get in some miles.
But I'm happy to report that Afterwork RunClub is still going strong. At least I'm sticking to that. And even though I took a vacation day on a Tuesday last week, I went downtown and met up with L and we did our 10K. And I managed another 4mi that same week, the first time I'd stepped on a treadmill in a long while.
L and I were a bit short on our goal distance yesterday, completing 8.4K (5.2mi) because we started later than we wanted. We ran a pretty good clip even though we were going against the wind. And not once, but twice, my running partner nearly got clipped by idiotic rush hour drivers. Impatient drivers who are making turns but don't check both ways before surging into their turns. Admittedly, L isn't wearing the most reflective clothing -- and we were talking about that moments before the first incident -- but that doesn't excuse the driver from not looking both ways. I think she was a little shaken up by it but we didn't slow down -- we were about 1K from home base.
And then it nearly happened again. Another jerkass driver was making a left and tried to squeeze through the throng of pedestrians. Ridiculous.
We've been blessed by good weather (ie: no snow, no ice, warm by winter standards -- go global warming!) so "winter" running has been surprisingly enjoyable. Can't wait til the weather turns and we still have silly drivers. We might have to reconsider some of our routes.
But I'm happy to report that Afterwork RunClub is still going strong. At least I'm sticking to that. And even though I took a vacation day on a Tuesday last week, I went downtown and met up with L and we did our 10K. And I managed another 4mi that same week, the first time I'd stepped on a treadmill in a long while.
L and I were a bit short on our goal distance yesterday, completing 8.4K (5.2mi) because we started later than we wanted. We ran a pretty good clip even though we were going against the wind. And not once, but twice, my running partner nearly got clipped by idiotic rush hour drivers. Impatient drivers who are making turns but don't check both ways before surging into their turns. Admittedly, L isn't wearing the most reflective clothing -- and we were talking about that moments before the first incident -- but that doesn't excuse the driver from not looking both ways. I think she was a little shaken up by it but we didn't slow down -- we were about 1K from home base.
And then it nearly happened again. Another jerkass driver was making a left and tried to squeeze through the throng of pedestrians. Ridiculous.
We've been blessed by good weather (ie: no snow, no ice, warm by winter standards -- go global warming!) so "winter" running has been surprisingly enjoyable. Can't wait til the weather turns and we still have silly drivers. We might have to reconsider some of our routes.
Tuesday, November 28
Speed demon she is
I had trouble keeping up with Afterwork RunClub Member No. 1 today. She was on another level of running existence and I trailed for pretty much the entire 10K that took us 1:07 through the same city route as last week. It seemed that we were running into the wind at every turn and we barely stopped with the traffic light fairy on our side today. I ran hard, and now I'm exhausted. I'm having trouble keeping my eyes open to watch House. Good thing for PVR technology.
Sunday, November 26
Rationalization
The week, in terms of running, started off well. I ran 11K a week ago, and followed up that effort with a 10K afterwork run on Tuesday. There was a trip to the gym to strengthen my core and some free weights on Wednesday.
Then nothing.
And not that life got in the way. I just lost the desire to go for the balance of the week. Maybe since I'd done 22K in two days I thought it was enough for the week? I can rationalize anything.
So feeling slightly guilty, I was going to run to the gym yesterday, about 7K away, and was going to time it so that I'd get there in time for core strength class. Guess where this is going
?.... no run! because I was easily convinced to not go, all because of this early morning weird fog that was so thick I couldn't see 2 feet in front of me. Yes, a poor excuse. There was zero desire to go once the fog cleared and it turned out to be a wonderful sunny and warm by almost winter standards. Wasted opportunity, again.
Though, mind you, baking three loaves of banana bread, and preparations for dinner guests are not a waste of an afternoon... again, I can rationalize anything.
Well. Seeing that the group meets in 15 minutes and I'm no where near ready to meet up, looks like I may skip today again. It's moving day for my sister and brother-in-law, and the last time I tried to run and then move, it sucked. Say it with me: I can rationalize anything.
Sigh. Let's start over again tomorrow.
****Update: After my sister phoned to say she was ready to start moving soon, I said I'd be there soon as I could and decided to run to her. It is just short of 2mi and since my mode of transportation today was going to be public transit, I figured it wouldn't be that much slower to take 20 minutes and go for a jog. I can rationalize anything. And then we went to work -- making a half dozen trips in a minivan. A few of those times the vehicle was packed to the hilt, so I'd run ... and my sister joined me once on one leg (!) ... to their new apartment and help them unload there. They didn't move very far, pretty much a half-mile around the corner. Estimated total mileage for the day (with long "breaks" of walking up and down stairs with heavy boxes, though sometimes I got to guard the illegally parked car): 3.75mi. Considering it didn't look like I was going to bother running today, that's good enough.
Mileage since marathon completion: 26.15mi/42.08K
Year-to-date mileage: 461.68mi/743.00K
Then nothing.
And not that life got in the way. I just lost the desire to go for the balance of the week. Maybe since I'd done 22K in two days I thought it was enough for the week? I can rationalize anything.
So feeling slightly guilty, I was going to run to the gym yesterday, about 7K away, and was going to time it so that I'd get there in time for core strength class. Guess where this is going
?.... no run! because I was easily convinced to not go, all because of this early morning weird fog that was so thick I couldn't see 2 feet in front of me. Yes, a poor excuse. There was zero desire to go once the fog cleared and it turned out to be a wonderful sunny and warm by almost winter standards. Wasted opportunity, again.
Though, mind you, baking three loaves of banana bread, and preparations for dinner guests are not a waste of an afternoon... again, I can rationalize anything.
Well. Seeing that the group meets in 15 minutes and I'm no where near ready to meet up, looks like I may skip today again. It's moving day for my sister and brother-in-law, and the last time I tried to run and then move, it sucked. Say it with me: I can rationalize anything.
Sigh. Let's start over again tomorrow.
****Update: After my sister phoned to say she was ready to start moving soon, I said I'd be there soon as I could and decided to run to her. It is just short of 2mi and since my mode of transportation today was going to be public transit, I figured it wouldn't be that much slower to take 20 minutes and go for a jog. I can rationalize anything. And then we went to work -- making a half dozen trips in a minivan. A few of those times the vehicle was packed to the hilt, so I'd run ... and my sister joined me once on one leg (!) ... to their new apartment and help them unload there. They didn't move very far, pretty much a half-mile around the corner. Estimated total mileage for the day (with long "breaks" of walking up and down stairs with heavy boxes, though sometimes I got to guard the illegally parked car): 3.75mi. Considering it didn't look like I was going to bother running today, that's good enough.
Mileage since marathon completion: 26.15mi/42.08K
Year-to-date mileage: 461.68mi/743.00K
Sunday, November 19
Saying hello to a new decade
It's over. My 20s are now behind me.
I found myself chuckling to myself this morning as I was standing in line at Starbucks. I had just finished an 11K run with the Sunday running group. I was on 4hours of sleep, I hadn't eaten a crumb, but I felt like a million dollars.
And I thought this was a really funny image of myself. Me in fullout semi-stylish running gear, hair tied back in a bouncy ponytail, in this Beaches neighborhood -- just back from a longish run chatting with running partner du jour Nicholas, a familiar face from the summer group and friend of one of my neighbors, about wedding planning and marathon running -- while waiting for my grande caramel macchiato. All that was missing was a baby stroller and, maybe, a golden retriever.
It was just too hilarious for me. I was laughing quietly to myself on the drive all the way home. When I returned, I said to CMan: Have I turned into a yuppie?
He didn't really have an answer. And maybe yuppie has a derogatory ring to it. But no matter. Our lives are constantly evolving. I guess I've already been at that "next" stage for some time. Most people I know have gotten married, some have kids. We're no longer staying out late and drinking week after week, but instead hold dinner parties and talk about investments, and accumlating assets or erasing crippling debt. One day that baby stroller may come, and maybe the dog too, though I'm semi-allergic to dogs (and cats), but while many people make a big deal out of turning 30, I'm not freaking out about it as much as I might have been if you asked me a couple of years ago.
And running, as a lifestyle, has probably eased this transition into this next phase. Because running wasn't just a boring activity anymore. It was necessary since I was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes before I turned 30 (the onset of this type is usually for people 40+ with myriad of other factors). So....
It is like running for my life.
Okay, maybe that's a little bit overdramatic because my blood/glucose levels aren't out of control, but they're not under control either. So running gives me time to just think, or not think at all, and it is a means of keeping my blood/glucose in check. Running is a weight management tool. And running also makes me think smarter about what I eat. The risks increase for blindness, heart disease, kidney problems, nerve damage, to name a few fun things if I ignore good management of diabetes. My doctor constantly tells me I'm too young for this disease so this fear is one of the main reasons to run. There's a purpose in doing it, and I don't need to think about what's my next race all the time.
I got nothing really special planned for this day. This morning's run was more or less my only thing to do. I just wanted to start the day, the decade, right. So far so good.
I want to be able to start my 40s even healthier than I feel now.
I found myself chuckling to myself this morning as I was standing in line at Starbucks. I had just finished an 11K run with the Sunday running group. I was on 4hours of sleep, I hadn't eaten a crumb, but I felt like a million dollars.
And I thought this was a really funny image of myself. Me in fullout semi-stylish running gear, hair tied back in a bouncy ponytail, in this Beaches neighborhood -- just back from a longish run chatting with running partner du jour Nicholas, a familiar face from the summer group and friend of one of my neighbors, about wedding planning and marathon running -- while waiting for my grande caramel macchiato. All that was missing was a baby stroller and, maybe, a golden retriever.
It was just too hilarious for me. I was laughing quietly to myself on the drive all the way home. When I returned, I said to CMan: Have I turned into a yuppie?
He didn't really have an answer. And maybe yuppie has a derogatory ring to it. But no matter. Our lives are constantly evolving. I guess I've already been at that "next" stage for some time. Most people I know have gotten married, some have kids. We're no longer staying out late and drinking week after week, but instead hold dinner parties and talk about investments, and accumlating assets or erasing crippling debt. One day that baby stroller may come, and maybe the dog too, though I'm semi-allergic to dogs (and cats), but while many people make a big deal out of turning 30, I'm not freaking out about it as much as I might have been if you asked me a couple of years ago.
And running, as a lifestyle, has probably eased this transition into this next phase. Because running wasn't just a boring activity anymore. It was necessary since I was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes before I turned 30 (the onset of this type is usually for people 40+ with myriad of other factors). So....
It is like running for my life.
Okay, maybe that's a little bit overdramatic because my blood/glucose levels aren't out of control, but they're not under control either. So running gives me time to just think, or not think at all, and it is a means of keeping my blood/glucose in check. Running is a weight management tool. And running also makes me think smarter about what I eat. The risks increase for blindness, heart disease, kidney problems, nerve damage, to name a few fun things if I ignore good management of diabetes. My doctor constantly tells me I'm too young for this disease so this fear is one of the main reasons to run. There's a purpose in doing it, and I don't need to think about what's my next race all the time.
I got nothing really special planned for this day. This morning's run was more or less my only thing to do. I just wanted to start the day, the decade, right. So far so good.
I want to be able to start my 40s even healthier than I feel now.
Friday, November 17
Knead to run
Q: What's better than the smell of fresh-baked bread?
A: The smell of homemade fresh-baked bread after a day that featured vacation time and a 25-minute run (about 2.5 mi).
This was my very first solo attempt at making bread that wasn't the banana variety. Years ago, Yumke walked me through a lesson in foccacia. But I didn't have the patience, the counter space, nor a KitchenAid mixer with a dough hook (Note to self: register for one). Anyways, all of that has changed... well, except for the dough hook... as I came across a recipe on the interweb and became intrigued. So, I started it yesterday afternoon, minutes before I started making chocolate chip cookies to satiate a craving. It literally took 90 seconds for me to combine the ingredients and leave it alone for the next 18 hours.
There was no need to knead this baby. But I needed to go for a run.
In the final two hours of rising, I dashed over to my parents to pick up a 5qt-Pyrex pot because I don't own one big enough for this particular recipe
(Note to self: register for a pot this big). In the first stage of baking, I went for a short run while there was still some daylight. The air was crisp, and it was overcast, but I thought it was perfect running weather today.
Anyways, this is how the bread turned out. I'm so happy with the way it looks on the outside. Pretty professional looking, eh? I have no idea what it tastes like yet. I'll wait til CMan comes home and we'll share it with some good butter.
For the rest of the weekend, hope to get out for a longish run. And maybe make another boule.
A: The smell of homemade fresh-baked bread after a day that featured vacation time and a 25-minute run (about 2.5 mi).
This was my very first solo attempt at making bread that wasn't the banana variety. Years ago, Yumke walked me through a lesson in foccacia. But I didn't have the patience, the counter space, nor a KitchenAid mixer with a dough hook (Note to self: register for one). Anyways, all of that has changed... well, except for the dough hook... as I came across a recipe on the interweb and became intrigued. So, I started it yesterday afternoon, minutes before I started making chocolate chip cookies to satiate a craving. It literally took 90 seconds for me to combine the ingredients and leave it alone for the next 18 hours.
There was no need to knead this baby. But I needed to go for a run.
In the final two hours of rising, I dashed over to my parents to pick up a 5qt-Pyrex pot because I don't own one big enough for this particular recipe
(Note to self: register for a pot this big). In the first stage of baking, I went for a short run while there was still some daylight. The air was crisp, and it was overcast, but I thought it was perfect running weather today.Anyways, this is how the bread turned out. I'm so happy with the way it looks on the outside. Pretty professional looking, eh? I have no idea what it tastes like yet. I'll wait til CMan comes home and we'll share it with some good butter.
For the rest of the weekend, hope to get out for a longish run. And maybe make another boule.
Tuesday, November 14
Sniffles
I was fine until I got to work this morning. I think I'm allergic to work because that's when the sniffles hit and didn't stop. Eight hours of this nonsense. Great, I'm coming down with something the day before I go on vacation. But by the time work was done, and Afterwork Run Club (ARC) was underway, the sniffles disappeared. I didn't sneeze once during the easy 6K. Now to start thinking about safe and well-lit routes for the upcoming Tuesday runs... ARC Member No.1 and I agreed that we'd like to build to a 10K weekly run but neither of us are so used to running in the dark. Somehow it was okay in the summer when it was hot and sticky, but my head doesn't like the idea of dark+cold.
Hopefully for the balance of this week I'll be able to get some mileage accomplished in some daylight.
Hopefully for the balance of this week I'll be able to get some mileage accomplished in some daylight.
Reliving the moment again and again and again
Not content to have relived the marathon through yesterday's ubertense calves, I decided I'd be much happier reliving it by looking at a picture of myself crossing the finish line. So I ordered it from the folks at marathonfoto. I went (almost) all out -- bought Option B plaque -- the one where you get a photo, a finisher's medal, and your name/time engraved. Time is optional feature but I have nothing to hide with my 5:20:26 finish. It should arrive around Christmas.
Monday, November 13
Ouch
I woke up this morning feeling exactly as I had post-marathon. Not in a good way. No, as in legs were screaming. Both calves were supertender and when I rolled out of bed, I couldn't put either foot down without some serious wincing.
I hadn't run over the weekend, but I did go to high impact cardio class, followed by core strength. I'm guessing I may have overexerted myself there?
Well, took a bath with epsom salts and that seems to have relieved the pain somewhat. I'll do some stretches and take out the ole ice pack later on.
I hadn't run over the weekend, but I did go to high impact cardio class, followed by core strength. I'm guessing I may have overexerted myself there?
Well, took a bath with epsom salts and that seems to have relieved the pain somewhat. I'll do some stretches and take out the ole ice pack later on.
Friday, November 10
Jelly's 18-week plan
It seems that my performance this week suggests that I will need some structure if I am to go through with this winter training idea. Not that I have a spring marathon in mind, but if Yumke or Frankie push hard enough -- not that they've decided themselves -- they might get me to do the oldest road race in North America in March. A 30K race.
I haven't been very motivated lately, but I haven't been an absolute couch potato either. I just haven't been out there running, despite some pretty mild weather this past week, and except for that one outing earlier this week after work. But I've gone back to the gym a few times this week and I think I've come up with a fairly decent schedule to keep myself in shape.
Since I pretty much stuck to Hal for 18 weeks, I know I can adhere to a schedule if it is stuck to my fridge. So here's Jelly's 18-week plan:
Monday: cardio/tone class
Tuesday: Afterwork RunClub (min 5K), followed by ab class
Wednesday: Yoga
Thursday: Run
Friday: Rest
Saturday: cardio, core strength classes
Sunday: Longer run
Coincidentally, the aforementioned road race is 19 weeks away. And I'm on vacation next week (though not going anywhere exotic. In fact, not going anywhere at all. Just not going to work, and that is just delicious).
So, if I start and take this regimen seriously starting Nov. 20, then maybe I'll be ready for that road race. Though I really won't decide to register til much later. At least I may have something bigger than a 5K to work towards this winter.
I haven't been very motivated lately, but I haven't been an absolute couch potato either. I just haven't been out there running, despite some pretty mild weather this past week, and except for that one outing earlier this week after work. But I've gone back to the gym a few times this week and I think I've come up with a fairly decent schedule to keep myself in shape.
Since I pretty much stuck to Hal for 18 weeks, I know I can adhere to a schedule if it is stuck to my fridge. So here's Jelly's 18-week plan:
Monday: cardio/tone class
Tuesday: Afterwork RunClub (min 5K), followed by ab class
Wednesday: Yoga
Thursday: Run
Friday: Rest
Saturday: cardio, core strength classes
Sunday: Longer run
Coincidentally, the aforementioned road race is 19 weeks away. And I'm on vacation next week (though not going anywhere exotic. In fact, not going anywhere at all. Just not going to work, and that is just delicious).
So, if I start and take this regimen seriously starting Nov. 20, then maybe I'll be ready for that road race. Though I really won't decide to register til much later. At least I may have something bigger than a 5K to work towards this winter.
Wednesday, November 8
Resolution Run
I'm not big into New Year's resolutions because I don't see the point in waiting til a new year to begin to set goals. It should be a constant and fluid thing, always under evaluation. So while I'm still mulling my 2007 race plans, I am holding onto 2006 by a thread. I signed up for the last race of the year -- The Resolution Run, which carries a tagline of "Start the New Year off on the right foot by establishing or maintaining an active lifestyle." Well, I guess I'm in it for the maintaining part.
So, this gives me something to aim for this winter. And I asked Afterwork RunClub Member No. 1 to register too. It'll give us something to work towards, other than general fitness, and she's pumped about it.
The bonus of signing up is the free run vest and running cap. That's got to be worth the price of entry (C$40).
Cheers to goals.
So, this gives me something to aim for this winter. And I asked Afterwork RunClub Member No. 1 to register too. It'll give us something to work towards, other than general fitness, and she's pumped about it.
The bonus of signing up is the free run vest and running cap. That's got to be worth the price of entry (C$40).
Cheers to goals.
Tuesday, November 7
First post-marathon run
The past 10 days have been busy -- quarterly stuff at work, two weddings, people to see, and the resumption of trying to get the house together and that means unpacking a few more boxes (will this never end?) -- so running was put aside for a little while longer. And I didn't feel too badly about it. And didn't somebody say the body needs a day of rest for every mile of a marathon completed? That would mean I could wait til middle of next week!
But who can wait that long?
So put it in the books -- the first post-marathon run is complete, coinciding with a very excellent inaugral outing of the Afterwork Run Club. I admit that without anything specific to train for, I have been reluctant to run. I need a bit of prodding to go back out there. I have thoroughly enjoyed the sleeping in, and non-pasta meals (although, funny I say that because I did have spaghetti tonight! First time in weeks).
And so the RunClub is a perfect reason to motivate me. Although membership is apparently 4 people, just two actually made it today. It was raining -- and I guess that would stop any novice runner. I say that like I'm such an expert, but L -- my newest running partner -- says that if we can run in rain, we're in the right mindset for training through the winter. That's the spirit, I say. Let the weather not stop us. Let it snow, let it be windy, let it shine. Bring it all on. Anyways, it wasn't sheets of rain, just a steady drizzle today.
We headed out at 4:24pm. I drafted an almost-5K route, one that featured extra wide sidewalks (since anywhere we went we'd have to navigate the afterwork downtown crowds) that basically took us from The Office, up and around the provincial government building, and back. We had to dodge quite a few people, at times it felt like we were salmon swimming against the stream. We stepped in many a puddle. We were able to hold a conversation the entire way, catching up on things that have happened in our lives in the four or five years since we've worked alongside each other. And I thought about how running brings people together.
I was surprised at how easily I found my stride, partly because it has been a couple of weeks since the marathon, and I was a little worried that I wouldn't be able to run well because I was a little stiff from making a grand return to the gym last night. I dusted off my gym membership card and did my pre-marathon days favorite Monday class. A cardio/toning class with the incomparable G. A class I have not been to in about five months. You know your disappearing act -- aka training for a marathon -- has done more to trim some pounds than your 3-times-a-week gym habit has ever done when people at the gym you haven't seen in five months, and only occassionally speak to casually in a hi-nice-to-see-you manner also notice you're lighter.
Overall, I'd say L and I run well together. At least we run the same pace and we have the same goal of maintaining our running fitness. She worked hard over the summer to get herself to comfortably run 10K. She doesn't want to lose it over winter and start from square one. And I would like to keep some kind of base, maybe 12-15 miles per week, building to 20 later on maybe. So we're going to do this again next Tuesday. It's on our Outlook calendars, every Tuesday til the end of time. I'm looking forward to it. I think I should get another run or two in before we go again next week even though I am trying to incorporate the gym back into my life. More on that another time.
By 5:02pm we were back at The Office. L had mentioned she wanted to run a marathon next year. With me. I said, "Great, you're coming to Chicago?"
.... now that's not a promise that I'll redo Chicago next year, but I'd be lying if I didn't say I didn't think about it everyday.
But who can wait that long?
So put it in the books -- the first post-marathon run is complete, coinciding with a very excellent inaugral outing of the Afterwork Run Club. I admit that without anything specific to train for, I have been reluctant to run. I need a bit of prodding to go back out there. I have thoroughly enjoyed the sleeping in, and non-pasta meals (although, funny I say that because I did have spaghetti tonight! First time in weeks).
And so the RunClub is a perfect reason to motivate me. Although membership is apparently 4 people, just two actually made it today. It was raining -- and I guess that would stop any novice runner. I say that like I'm such an expert, but L -- my newest running partner -- says that if we can run in rain, we're in the right mindset for training through the winter. That's the spirit, I say. Let the weather not stop us. Let it snow, let it be windy, let it shine. Bring it all on. Anyways, it wasn't sheets of rain, just a steady drizzle today.
We headed out at 4:24pm. I drafted an almost-5K route, one that featured extra wide sidewalks (since anywhere we went we'd have to navigate the afterwork downtown crowds) that basically took us from The Office, up and around the provincial government building, and back. We had to dodge quite a few people, at times it felt like we were salmon swimming against the stream. We stepped in many a puddle. We were able to hold a conversation the entire way, catching up on things that have happened in our lives in the four or five years since we've worked alongside each other. And I thought about how running brings people together.
I was surprised at how easily I found my stride, partly because it has been a couple of weeks since the marathon, and I was a little worried that I wouldn't be able to run well because I was a little stiff from making a grand return to the gym last night. I dusted off my gym membership card and did my pre-marathon days favorite Monday class. A cardio/toning class with the incomparable G. A class I have not been to in about five months. You know your disappearing act -- aka training for a marathon -- has done more to trim some pounds than your 3-times-a-week gym habit has ever done when people at the gym you haven't seen in five months, and only occassionally speak to casually in a hi-nice-to-see-you manner also notice you're lighter.
Overall, I'd say L and I run well together. At least we run the same pace and we have the same goal of maintaining our running fitness. She worked hard over the summer to get herself to comfortably run 10K. She doesn't want to lose it over winter and start from square one. And I would like to keep some kind of base, maybe 12-15 miles per week, building to 20 later on maybe. So we're going to do this again next Tuesday. It's on our Outlook calendars, every Tuesday til the end of time. I'm looking forward to it. I think I should get another run or two in before we go again next week even though I am trying to incorporate the gym back into my life. More on that another time.
By 5:02pm we were back at The Office. L had mentioned she wanted to run a marathon next year. With me. I said, "Great, you're coming to Chicago?"
.... now that's not a promise that I'll redo Chicago next year, but I'd be lying if I didn't say I didn't think about it everyday.
Friday, November 3
Marathon lore
Think weather helps your marathon? Think dehydration causes cramping? Think again.
See this article in the NYTimes.
See this article in the NYTimes.
Thursday, November 2
Afterwork Run Club
Led by ME. Yeah, that's right. ME.
So, word got around work that I did this marathon. And so my former supervisor, who now works in a different department, found that really inspiring. So inspiring that she asked if she could train with me, though it's unclear if she's aiming to do one herself. But I'm not training for anything, I said. Then let's just run together, she said.
I'm flattered. I really am. And so we decided we'd choose a day and stick to it, and probably limit ourselves to 5K -- since it's going to get dark quicker and the temp isn't going to be so friendly as we approach the "real" start of winter.
Then she told someone else. And now that person is into it. And then there were three. I wonder if more will join.
I don't know what they're expecting. Part of me is a bit terrified -- especially after my Group Running experience early on. But I think we're all about the same level, which is a relief. I guess I'm going to be the pace bunny, and I volunteered to be the one to map out the routes. And I'll bring a stopwatch..though I guess we don't really need that. This is just for the pure joy of running.
Joy of running. Hee hee.....words I thought I'd never put together in the same sentence.
It starts Tuesday.
So, word got around work that I did this marathon. And so my former supervisor, who now works in a different department, found that really inspiring. So inspiring that she asked if she could train with me, though it's unclear if she's aiming to do one herself. But I'm not training for anything, I said. Then let's just run together, she said.
I'm flattered. I really am. And so we decided we'd choose a day and stick to it, and probably limit ourselves to 5K -- since it's going to get dark quicker and the temp isn't going to be so friendly as we approach the "real" start of winter.
Then she told someone else. And now that person is into it. And then there were three. I wonder if more will join.
I don't know what they're expecting. Part of me is a bit terrified -- especially after my Group Running experience early on. But I think we're all about the same level, which is a relief. I guess I'm going to be the pace bunny, and I volunteered to be the one to map out the routes. And I'll bring a stopwatch..though I guess we don't really need that. This is just for the pure joy of running.
Joy of running. Hee hee.....words I thought I'd never put together in the same sentence.
It starts Tuesday.
Tuesday, October 31
The (overdue) Thank You
No tricks, just treats in the way of long overdue gratitude....
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dear Chicago,
Thank you for hosting a great marathon. I now know why so many attempt their first marathons in your fair city. Not only is it a spectacular city with beautiful architecture, but the public art is something else -- The Bean was by far, handsdown, my favorite. I marveled at it every day, and raved about it to my friends. And the food! Don't even get me started.
The spectators, especially, deserve a giant gold star for their support. I had heard these spectators were world-class and they didn't let me down. The weather was not the friendliest, yet there they were spectators in spades, hooting and hollering for everyone at just about every point on the course. I cannot stress how much they helped distract me from negative thoughts, and their cheers helped carry me to the big finish.
Thanks for the golden memories. Maybe we'll meet again someday.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dear Chicago Marathon finishers, and my fans,
Thank you for following my progress. I hit some good lows during the program, but your advice always picked me up. I hit some good highs too, and thankfully, those were more often the case.
I tracked the blogs of my fellow Chicago Hopefuls-now-Finishers that became an important and integrated aspect of my training. My undying gratitude to Bob who had the foresight to chair Chicago-bound 2006 in blogland, and welcome me into the family. I have not met most of these souls (soles?), but I feel like I've known you for years. You educated me, allowed me to peek into your training programs, showed me how you fit life into your running life until the two were indistinguishable and just co-existed. It became my life too.
But not just the Chicago-bound were the only ones that propeled me to my successful finish at the 2006 Chicago Marathon. A shout out to my family, my friends, and other runners who blog or don't, though an acknowledgment must be made to Arcaner and Sonia for being frequent commentators. I salute those that had the courage to begin the training, wanted to run it, but due to unforeseen circumstances, were not able to triumph with us. But I share this achievement with them because they were still awesome supporters throughout the journey. And a special thank you to Emily who put this now-unridiculous idea to run a marathon in my head in the first place.
In the end, I can't say it better than Runnergirl did in a recent post when she said "You have more of an impact than you could possibly realize." It applies to everyone who helped me get to the finish line on Oct. 22.
Forever grateful.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dear Yumke and Frankie,
Was it only a year ago that I flippantly said I was going to run a marathon? Was it only that long ago that I convinced you to come aboard the crazy train to run for hours? I think I might have said "It's nice to have goals" as a reason to run a marathon. Because I never considered myself a runner when I set that goal. But I am now fully convinced that I've morphed, joined the club.
The three of us, as far as I can remember, never ran once together over the course of this past year. There were intentions declared early on once we made a pact to do this, but I think it's funny we had our first run together, a simple two-miler, the day before the marathon.
We each had our own training style. Frankie was totally into the group running. Yumke was totally solo. I was somewhere in the middle, like a jelly sandwich I guess.
I don't possess the natural ability to run like either of you, but the possibility that I was going to let either of you down scared me a lot. "Fear is a great motivator", is a saying that used to be taped to the side of Yumke's computer during our time at the school paper. The fear of failure was indeed a motivator to get up at 6AM on the hottest days of the summer to get that long run in; the fear of failure would convince me to skip the beer after work and get another 5 miles logged; the fear of failure kept me honest in this space -- and I thank Yumke for making me accountable through a blog.
We didn't have to run this together to be great friends, we already are. But there's no doubt we've grown even closer.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dear CMan,
Thank you for putting up with my insanity for, not just the last 12 years, but especially for the 18-weeks I put myself into training mode.
Thank you for not complaining about feeling neglected on Sunday mornings when I'd go out for a couple of hours for a long run. Thank you for not complaining the other six days of the week when I'd invariably be either complaining there aren't enough hours in a day to fit in a somewhat shorter run, or whining about sore calves.
Thank you for having spaghetti with me.
Thank you for picking me up from the park when I ran too far from home and overestimated my ability.
Thank you for buying epsom salts, then drawing a bath.
Thank you for the stylin watch that I'll use for many runs to come.
Thank you for following me around Chicago as best you could. I can't explain how your efforts to find me at several points on Marathon Day was so key to the success.
Thank you for all these points, and others during our lifetime, that are too numerous to list.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dear Jelly,
Thank you for never giving up even when that seemed like the easiest route out. Your mind is stronger for this, and you've learned that you are capable of setting goals and reaching them if you work hard enough. Hopefully this applies to other aspects of your life.
Your body is proud of you for losing nearly all the weight you had gained since university. You look great, and your mother thinks so too. But, your body especially thanks you, if only because this weight loss is crucial to your diabetes management.
For all the stress I've put on the body this training period, I'm sorry. You logged 409.33 training miles before you took your position at the starting line. That's some 83 hours of running. You would take 5:20:26 more to go the distance on Oct. 22. That's quite an accomplisment, don't let anyone tell you otherwise. The sore quads and hips, achy toes, and tense calves, week in and week out. Worth it? Hell ya. Consider this a warning..... there is more to come as long as you let me.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dear Chicago,
Thank you for hosting a great marathon. I now know why so many attempt their first marathons in your fair city. Not only is it a spectacular city with beautiful architecture, but the public art is something else -- The Bean was by far, handsdown, my favorite. I marveled at it every day, and raved about it to my friends. And the food! Don't even get me started.
The spectators, especially, deserve a giant gold star for their support. I had heard these spectators were world-class and they didn't let me down. The weather was not the friendliest, yet there they were spectators in spades, hooting and hollering for everyone at just about every point on the course. I cannot stress how much they helped distract me from negative thoughts, and their cheers helped carry me to the big finish.
Thanks for the golden memories. Maybe we'll meet again someday.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dear Chicago Marathon finishers, and my fans,
Thank you for following my progress. I hit some good lows during the program, but your advice always picked me up. I hit some good highs too, and thankfully, those were more often the case.
I tracked the blogs of my fellow Chicago Hopefuls-now-Finishers that became an important and integrated aspect of my training. My undying gratitude to Bob who had the foresight to chair Chicago-bound 2006 in blogland, and welcome me into the family. I have not met most of these souls (soles?), but I feel like I've known you for years. You educated me, allowed me to peek into your training programs, showed me how you fit life into your running life until the two were indistinguishable and just co-existed. It became my life too.
But not just the Chicago-bound were the only ones that propeled me to my successful finish at the 2006 Chicago Marathon. A shout out to my family, my friends, and other runners who blog or don't, though an acknowledgment must be made to Arcaner and Sonia for being frequent commentators. I salute those that had the courage to begin the training, wanted to run it, but due to unforeseen circumstances, were not able to triumph with us. But I share this achievement with them because they were still awesome supporters throughout the journey. And a special thank you to Emily who put this now-unridiculous idea to run a marathon in my head in the first place.
In the end, I can't say it better than Runnergirl did in a recent post when she said "You have more of an impact than you could possibly realize." It applies to everyone who helped me get to the finish line on Oct. 22.
Forever grateful.
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Dear Yumke and Frankie,
Was it only a year ago that I flippantly said I was going to run a marathon? Was it only that long ago that I convinced you to come aboard the crazy train to run for hours? I think I might have said "It's nice to have goals" as a reason to run a marathon. Because I never considered myself a runner when I set that goal. But I am now fully convinced that I've morphed, joined the club.
The three of us, as far as I can remember, never ran once together over the course of this past year. There were intentions declared early on once we made a pact to do this, but I think it's funny we had our first run together, a simple two-miler, the day before the marathon.
We each had our own training style. Frankie was totally into the group running. Yumke was totally solo. I was somewhere in the middle, like a jelly sandwich I guess.
I don't possess the natural ability to run like either of you, but the possibility that I was going to let either of you down scared me a lot. "Fear is a great motivator", is a saying that used to be taped to the side of Yumke's computer during our time at the school paper. The fear of failure was indeed a motivator to get up at 6AM on the hottest days of the summer to get that long run in; the fear of failure would convince me to skip the beer after work and get another 5 miles logged; the fear of failure kept me honest in this space -- and I thank Yumke for making me accountable through a blog.
We didn't have to run this together to be great friends, we already are. But there's no doubt we've grown even closer.
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Dear CMan,
Thank you for putting up with my insanity for, not just the last 12 years, but especially for the 18-weeks I put myself into training mode.
Thank you for not complaining about feeling neglected on Sunday mornings when I'd go out for a couple of hours for a long run. Thank you for not complaining the other six days of the week when I'd invariably be either complaining there aren't enough hours in a day to fit in a somewhat shorter run, or whining about sore calves.
Thank you for having spaghetti with me.
Thank you for picking me up from the park when I ran too far from home and overestimated my ability.
Thank you for buying epsom salts, then drawing a bath.
Thank you for the stylin watch that I'll use for many runs to come.
Thank you for following me around Chicago as best you could. I can't explain how your efforts to find me at several points on Marathon Day was so key to the success.
Thank you for all these points, and others during our lifetime, that are too numerous to list.
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Dear Jelly,
Thank you for never giving up even when that seemed like the easiest route out. Your mind is stronger for this, and you've learned that you are capable of setting goals and reaching them if you work hard enough. Hopefully this applies to other aspects of your life.
Your body is proud of you for losing nearly all the weight you had gained since university. You look great, and your mother thinks so too. But, your body especially thanks you, if only because this weight loss is crucial to your diabetes management.
For all the stress I've put on the body this training period, I'm sorry. You logged 409.33 training miles before you took your position at the starting line. That's some 83 hours of running. You would take 5:20:26 more to go the distance on Oct. 22. That's quite an accomplisment, don't let anyone tell you otherwise. The sore quads and hips, achy toes, and tense calves, week in and week out. Worth it? Hell ya. Consider this a warning..... there is more to come as long as you let me.
Sunday, October 29
The week after
CMan had to fireman carry me up two flights of stairs on our first night home. Stairs were my enemies for days. I walked backwards down the subway stairs when no escalator was available to the great amusement of fellow commuters. I walked like a penguin til Wednesday. I finally got a massage on Thursday afternoon. I enjoyed telling anyone who would listen that I did what I set out to do, finish the marathon. I emailed the marathonfoto link around. I wore my new favorite shirt, the Chicago Marathon half-zippy, every other day because not only does it physcially keep me warm in The Office, but reminds me of how much fun I had doing what I thought was impossible nearly a year ago.
I have eagarly read and enjoyed the race reports, the aftermaths, of all my Chicago training partners.
I have taken the entire week to enjoy not running. I haven't thought about when my next run will be -- I haven't even taken my shoes out of my carry-on luggage. I've also spent the entire week indulging in everything I have eliminated or greatly reduced during training. After work on Wednesday I had my first beer since my sister's Kentucky wedding reception on the July holiday weekend (I don't know why I waited so long after the marathon!) I had more white wine than my poor confused body could handle at my cousin's wedding last night. I have had french fries at nearly every meal, McDonald's twice in consecutive days, and more dessert than I care to admit (especially to my doctor).
And that brings us to the question that's been asked over and over again this week.
"What's next?"
Still thinking about it....
I have eagarly read and enjoyed the race reports, the aftermaths, of all my Chicago training partners.
I have taken the entire week to enjoy not running. I haven't thought about when my next run will be -- I haven't even taken my shoes out of my carry-on luggage. I've also spent the entire week indulging in everything I have eliminated or greatly reduced during training. After work on Wednesday I had my first beer since my sister's Kentucky wedding reception on the July holiday weekend (I don't know why I waited so long after the marathon!) I had more white wine than my poor confused body could handle at my cousin's wedding last night. I have had french fries at nearly every meal, McDonald's twice in consecutive days, and more dessert than I care to admit (especially to my doctor).
And that brings us to the question that's been asked over and over again this week.
"What's next?"
Still thinking about it....
Friday, October 27
Why rain on my parade?
Frankie and I work together. We have for years, and being at the same workplace has only strengthened our friendship that started back in university more than a decade ago. And our connection was further deepened by this marathoning fun.
And so is it any wonder that we're still yammering about this awesome achievement to each other constantly? We're loving this reliving of the moments created this past weekend. We are so proud of ourselves, of each other.
So, as is customary each morning, we say hello, how are you. That's what co-workers do, and friends may take that a step further and ask how the previous evening was. And we've been making sure to ask about each other's legs after the pounding these took on the weekend. We're both walking pretty normally now. Sunday and Monday was hard.
Anyways, the point of this rant is that BossLady saw us talking to each other on the phone this morning. And then she thought we were talking too long because sent us both an email saying "Isn't a half-hour chat with each other rather an unproductive way to start the day? Or is this a major business discussion that has major relevance for the news file?"
Why is she raining on my parade? (And she's exaggerating the time. It was more like 14minutes of casual conversation after 2 minutes of business.)
Frankie and I both wrote responses. But after careful consideration, and consultation with a couple of others, we decided not to send them because it would basically set up career suicide. Nor talk to BossLady about it. We get it. We'll not talk to each other so openly. We'll stick to instant messaging just like everyone else from now on.
And so is it any wonder that we're still yammering about this awesome achievement to each other constantly? We're loving this reliving of the moments created this past weekend. We are so proud of ourselves, of each other.
So, as is customary each morning, we say hello, how are you. That's what co-workers do, and friends may take that a step further and ask how the previous evening was. And we've been making sure to ask about each other's legs after the pounding these took on the weekend. We're both walking pretty normally now. Sunday and Monday was hard.
Anyways, the point of this rant is that BossLady saw us talking to each other on the phone this morning. And then she thought we were talking too long because sent us both an email saying "Isn't a half-hour chat with each other rather an unproductive way to start the day? Or is this a major business discussion that has major relevance for the news file?"
Why is she raining on my parade? (And she's exaggerating the time. It was more like 14minutes of casual conversation after 2 minutes of business.)
Frankie and I both wrote responses. But after careful consideration, and consultation with a couple of others, we decided not to send them because it would basically set up career suicide. Nor talk to BossLady about it. We get it. We'll not talk to each other so openly. We'll stick to instant messaging just like everyone else from now on.
Thursday, October 26
Race Report -- Chapter 2A (the picture-worth-more-than-1000-words edition)
Placement:
Overall: 28956/33629
Gender: 11790/14720
Division: 2829/3442
Race Report -- Chapter Two (the long, drawn out, no-detail-too-small edition)
Alarm buzzed at 4:37 a.m. I wanted to get out of bed to eat my breakfast of Vector cereal and continue with the hydration, but the bed won for another 20 minutes. Groggily pushed the cereal into my mouth. Stretched a little bit. Decided to wear a long sleeve technical shirt over a technical singlet. I could toss the long sleeve if I needed to, I wasn't that attached to it. Capris. And gloves. And my yellow hat. I got my fuel belt to sit well on my hips and decided this would be okay to run with provided I skipped the water bottle.
I got my gear, kissed CMan goodbye and told him I'd look for him on the Randolph St. Bridge at the start. I didn't know when I'd see him after that since we didn't plan which mile markers he'd station himself. Oh well, lessons learned here.
Started the pilgrimage to the Start Line. The walk along Michigan Ave was one of the most amazing sights I'd ever seen. Just the mass of runners and supporters, some bundled up really well, others doing their warm-up jogs, and lots of people taking pictures. There was definitely an electric feeling in the air.
I stopped at the Trophy Tent -- a privilege for which I paid $25 back in the summer so that I could get accelerated gear check, pre/post race food, dedicated portapotties, and massage therapy after the race. I saw Frankie who was making his final stretches before leaving for his preferred start corral. No Yumke, but I was glad I was able to give him a good luck hug the night before after the carboload. I took my time. I wasn't going to jockey for a better position in the open corral. And the tent was beautifully warm, even if it had that muddy grass smell. I was in no hurry to go back out into the almost too-crisp air.
I emptied my bladder one last time. Saw Esther, a girl from the Running Room group I quit earlier in the summer. It was nice to see a familiar face, and while she was trying to find another RR member, we agreed to at least start together and look for the lost friend. I was pretty sure I wouldn't see Esther five seconds after we crossed the start.
The Start Line was buzzing. I chose a spot in between the 5:00 and 5:15 pace groups. I had signed up for the 5:00 group at the Expo though I really had no intention of running with them. I just wanted a pace band, though not the bib -- I was gonna have enough things stuck and flapping on my shirt as it was.
Springsteen's Born to Run blared on the speakers, and I imagined Frankie was going nuts. He'd later say that he hadn't heard it on the starting line. Maybe that's because it took him less than two minutes to get through the starting line. It took me nearly 20 minutes, that's how far back I was in the pack.
First 5K
All I could think was "I can't believe I'm here. I can't believe I'm here. I can't believe I'm here." I waved to CMan at the bridge as planned and kept going. He would later tell me he ran to the other side of the tunnel to take a picture of the back of my yellow-hatted head. I marvelled at all the spectators. I'd never seen so many out at a race. Then again, I've never run with 40,000 people either. And then I started getting misty-eyed. Already? Yeah, that's right.
Then I saw CMan again at the 3-mi mark. He didn't see me. I jumped him. Gave him a big kiss. Kept running.
10K
Still running a very comfortable clip at under 12 min/mi. I felt strong. I wondered if I could maintain the pace. Cough had decided to disappear. At least for now. Loved the park part of this leg of the course -- and it was a funny sight to see so many people run off course and find a tree.
Recognized Lisa because I saw her awesome running skirt. Said, "Hi, I'm Jellypepper." I think I may have said "You're looking strong. Keep it up" or something to that effect. Sorry Lisa I didn't run more than 30 seconds with you. Took my first walking break at the 6-mile mark. Figured I should take a gel now. Did I really just run all that without stopping? What was I thinking? Is this going to haunt me later on? Didn't I have a race plan?
Well, the short answer to that is no. I didn't have a real strategy. I didn't even really study the map. I know there are some who have each mile planned out, down to the second, knew when turns were coming up, and knew exactly when the gels were going to be consumed. I hadn't ever really got that whole walk/run thing down to a T. I mostly just keep going until I feel like I need a break.
CMan says he thinks he just missed me at the turn at Addison when the course turned south. He wouldn't catch up with me for a while.
I also made a critical decision here. I was hearing spectators cheering on Mikes, Jennys, Julies, and Loris all around me. I was jealous. I had taped my name to my back thinking this would be less intrusive, since my bib was on my stomach. But in what turned out to be the best thing I did, I unstuck it from my back and moved it to my chest. Now I wouldn't get 16 steps without hearing my name for practically the rest of the course. Is this what it feels like to be a rock star? Close enough.
15K-Halfway point/13.1 miles
The crowds along this stretch were awesome. So was the entertainment. I think this is where I saw two of the best signs on course: "Run like you stole something" and "Run Faster Stupid". Every mile so far, except for No. 6 and 11, were under 12 minutes. By the halfway mark, I glanced at my watch, and I hadn't PB'ed here, but I hadn't expected to either. I was supposed to run the first half slow, after all, though I don't think I really was following my own advice. I did feel I was going too fast, but not so fast beyond my capability. Then again, I guess I was right about on pace because the 5:00 pace bunny was never far out of my sight til this point. Had another gel around Mile 11.
20 miles
The section between the halfway mark and uncharted territory is a bit of a haze. I just remember wondering what I was in for once I took my first steps past the 20mile marker. I'd never run this far and while I believed in myself, I had trouble visualizing what 6 more miles meant. I must've gotten confused in this leg too because my fancy watch says I did mile 19 in 7:17. Then it said I did Mile 20 in 4:39. Hello?
My legs was holding up reasonably well, though I started to feel some pain on the sides of my feet -- much like I'd felt during the 20miler a few weeks ago. I'd taken a pretty long walk break at Mile 16 after I started to wheeze real hard. That turned into quite the coughing fit. It calmed down as I sucked on another cough candy.
Mile 21/22 (Chinatown)
I was starting to feel a twinge of sadness that I hadn't seen CMan since the Mile 3. It'd been more than 3 hours since I'd seen him. I started to curse our unpreparedness in establishing cheering points; maybe I just didn't see him in the crowds.
But again, I have to give kudos to the crowd. It was clearly not a warm day, yet they came out in spades. They saved me, shielded me from my own negative thoughts. This is where I patted myself on the back for switching my name to the front. Because I kept hearing "Go Jelly!" Best feeling ever.
Then magically, at the turn into Chinatown, there he was. I spotted the familiar green ballcap on the outside corner. I accelerated towards him and flung my arms around him. And then I started to cry again.
CMan was immediately concerned, thinking I was crying from injury, but really I was just so elated to see him there. It'd been a tough middle course -- my mental game was breaking down just a little -- and the sides of my feet were really starting to want more of my attention. I whispered to him that I was okay, that I was just really happy to be where I was, that he was there, and that I didn't have that much more to go. He kissed away some tears and pushed me to continue.
And because I was blubbering on as I ran away, my silly tears shifted my left contact lens and curled into a corner of my eye. I couldn't blink it back into place and had to move off course to fix it. And I had trouble doing so, partly because it was windy and the window I was trying to use as a mirror was pretty dusty. But I got back on track.
But, during the time it took for me to finally get my eye trouble sorted out, the exhaustion seemed to have caught up in my legs which had completely stopped moving for the first time in more than 4 hours now. I had about one more hour to go at my current pace.
I didn't think I had stopped that long to fix my eyes, but my watch says it took me half an hour to finish one mile. Maybe I had trouble restarting and I took more walking breaks that mile. I stopped to stretch out some of the tightening calves. And hacked some more.
Mile 23-25
Tough, tough, tough. My feet were definitely bothering me now, but I soldiered on. I didn't like seeing runners going in the opposite direction just one street over. And because I didn't study that map, I didn't know how much further I was going that way before coming back this way. And the spectators were few in some of these parts too.
I saw a Canadian hat just ahead of me. I caught up beside it, and realized I knew the woman wearing it. Small world. She hangs out at the same gym as I. We encouraged each other on. I wanted to stay with her, but my energy was depleting quickly. I let her go ahead. I had another cough to get out.
Then I heard a whistle, and there CMan was again! He came onto the course, just before Mile 25, and jogged a little bit beside me, trying to capture a few more photos for posterity. I wanted to slow to a walk with him but he said I had to finish strong, and that he knew I could do it.
The Final Mile and 385 yards
I got myself together and trucked on. As I approached the 800m sign I could hear the crowd going wild, not just for me but for everyone who was less than a kilometer from the finish. I fed off that energy, and accelerated. I remembered how I finished the Scotiabank half marathon a month earlier, picking off people one by one at the end. I saw the "hill" and pretty much told it to go to hell, it was not going to slow me down. I flew up that hill, and turned the corner. This was it. I could see the finish line. I was going to finish this. I sprinted that last stretch like I was stealing something.
Raised my arms in victory, yelling all the way across the FINISH LINE.
Yelled some more, fist pumping, beaming as I accepted my medal, a cup of Gatorade, returned my chip, got a shiny space blanket. It was a super long walk through the chute. I hobbled my way back to the Trophy Tent. I was disappointed they had no more soup left and the thought of beer actually made my stomach turn. I collected my gear, and gobbled half a sandwich, skipped the massage and without Yumke or Frankie in the tent to celebrate, I left to find CMan.
I reunited with him and found that my ability to walk was rapidly waning. My sister and her husband found us near Buckingham Fountain and we made our way towards our hotel...which was so close yet so far. My body now just wanted to shut down.
I fought against it and limped best I could for two more blocks. It was odd walking along the same street where, some SIX hours ago, I was jumping up and down ready to rock this marathon.
Then my feet just stopped cooperating. I couldn't plant my foot without wincing. We hailed a cab to take us 2-1/2 blocks. Worth every penny.
Next: Race Report-Chapter 3 (The Aftermath)
I got my gear, kissed CMan goodbye and told him I'd look for him on the Randolph St. Bridge at the start. I didn't know when I'd see him after that since we didn't plan which mile markers he'd station himself. Oh well, lessons learned here.
Started the pilgrimage to the Start Line. The walk along Michigan Ave was one of the most amazing sights I'd ever seen. Just the mass of runners and supporters, some bundled up really well, others doing their warm-up jogs, and lots of people taking pictures. There was definitely an electric feeling in the air.
I stopped at the Trophy Tent -- a privilege for which I paid $25 back in the summer so that I could get accelerated gear check, pre/post race food, dedicated portapotties, and massage therapy after the race. I saw Frankie who was making his final stretches before leaving for his preferred start corral. No Yumke, but I was glad I was able to give him a good luck hug the night before after the carboload. I took my time. I wasn't going to jockey for a better position in the open corral. And the tent was beautifully warm, even if it had that muddy grass smell. I was in no hurry to go back out into the almost too-crisp air.
I emptied my bladder one last time. Saw Esther, a girl from the Running Room group I quit earlier in the summer. It was nice to see a familiar face, and while she was trying to find another RR member, we agreed to at least start together and look for the lost friend. I was pretty sure I wouldn't see Esther five seconds after we crossed the start.
The Start Line was buzzing. I chose a spot in between the 5:00 and 5:15 pace groups. I had signed up for the 5:00 group at the Expo though I really had no intention of running with them. I just wanted a pace band, though not the bib -- I was gonna have enough things stuck and flapping on my shirt as it was.
Springsteen's Born to Run blared on the speakers, and I imagined Frankie was going nuts. He'd later say that he hadn't heard it on the starting line. Maybe that's because it took him less than two minutes to get through the starting line. It took me nearly 20 minutes, that's how far back I was in the pack.
First 5K
All I could think was "I can't believe I'm here. I can't believe I'm here. I can't believe I'm here." I waved to CMan at the bridge as planned and kept going. He would later tell me he ran to the other side of the tunnel to take a picture of the back of my yellow-hatted head. I marvelled at all the spectators. I'd never seen so many out at a race. Then again, I've never run with 40,000 people either. And then I started getting misty-eyed. Already? Yeah, that's right.
Then I saw CMan again at the 3-mi mark. He didn't see me. I jumped him. Gave him a big kiss. Kept running.
10K
Still running a very comfortable clip at under 12 min/mi. I felt strong. I wondered if I could maintain the pace. Cough had decided to disappear. At least for now. Loved the park part of this leg of the course -- and it was a funny sight to see so many people run off course and find a tree.
Recognized Lisa because I saw her awesome running skirt. Said, "Hi, I'm Jellypepper." I think I may have said "You're looking strong. Keep it up" or something to that effect. Sorry Lisa I didn't run more than 30 seconds with you. Took my first walking break at the 6-mile mark. Figured I should take a gel now. Did I really just run all that without stopping? What was I thinking? Is this going to haunt me later on? Didn't I have a race plan?
Well, the short answer to that is no. I didn't have a real strategy. I didn't even really study the map. I know there are some who have each mile planned out, down to the second, knew when turns were coming up, and knew exactly when the gels were going to be consumed. I hadn't ever really got that whole walk/run thing down to a T. I mostly just keep going until I feel like I need a break.
CMan says he thinks he just missed me at the turn at Addison when the course turned south. He wouldn't catch up with me for a while.
I also made a critical decision here. I was hearing spectators cheering on Mikes, Jennys, Julies, and Loris all around me. I was jealous. I had taped my name to my back thinking this would be less intrusive, since my bib was on my stomach. But in what turned out to be the best thing I did, I unstuck it from my back and moved it to my chest. Now I wouldn't get 16 steps without hearing my name for practically the rest of the course. Is this what it feels like to be a rock star? Close enough.
15K-Halfway point/13.1 miles
The crowds along this stretch were awesome. So was the entertainment. I think this is where I saw two of the best signs on course: "Run like you stole something" and "Run Faster Stupid". Every mile so far, except for No. 6 and 11, were under 12 minutes. By the halfway mark, I glanced at my watch, and I hadn't PB'ed here, but I hadn't expected to either. I was supposed to run the first half slow, after all, though I don't think I really was following my own advice. I did feel I was going too fast, but not so fast beyond my capability. Then again, I guess I was right about on pace because the 5:00 pace bunny was never far out of my sight til this point. Had another gel around Mile 11.
20 miles
The section between the halfway mark and uncharted territory is a bit of a haze. I just remember wondering what I was in for once I took my first steps past the 20mile marker. I'd never run this far and while I believed in myself, I had trouble visualizing what 6 more miles meant. I must've gotten confused in this leg too because my fancy watch says I did mile 19 in 7:17. Then it said I did Mile 20 in 4:39. Hello?
My legs was holding up reasonably well, though I started to feel some pain on the sides of my feet -- much like I'd felt during the 20miler a few weeks ago. I'd taken a pretty long walk break at Mile 16 after I started to wheeze real hard. That turned into quite the coughing fit. It calmed down as I sucked on another cough candy.
Mile 21/22 (Chinatown)
I was starting to feel a twinge of sadness that I hadn't seen CMan since the Mile 3. It'd been more than 3 hours since I'd seen him. I started to curse our unpreparedness in establishing cheering points; maybe I just didn't see him in the crowds.
But again, I have to give kudos to the crowd. It was clearly not a warm day, yet they came out in spades. They saved me, shielded me from my own negative thoughts. This is where I patted myself on the back for switching my name to the front. Because I kept hearing "Go Jelly!" Best feeling ever.
Then magically, at the turn into Chinatown, there he was. I spotted the familiar green ballcap on the outside corner. I accelerated towards him and flung my arms around him. And then I started to cry again.
CMan was immediately concerned, thinking I was crying from injury, but really I was just so elated to see him there. It'd been a tough middle course -- my mental game was breaking down just a little -- and the sides of my feet were really starting to want more of my attention. I whispered to him that I was okay, that I was just really happy to be where I was, that he was there, and that I didn't have that much more to go. He kissed away some tears and pushed me to continue.
And because I was blubbering on as I ran away, my silly tears shifted my left contact lens and curled into a corner of my eye. I couldn't blink it back into place and had to move off course to fix it. And I had trouble doing so, partly because it was windy and the window I was trying to use as a mirror was pretty dusty. But I got back on track.
But, during the time it took for me to finally get my eye trouble sorted out, the exhaustion seemed to have caught up in my legs which had completely stopped moving for the first time in more than 4 hours now. I had about one more hour to go at my current pace.
I didn't think I had stopped that long to fix my eyes, but my watch says it took me half an hour to finish one mile. Maybe I had trouble restarting and I took more walking breaks that mile. I stopped to stretch out some of the tightening calves. And hacked some more.
Mile 23-25
Tough, tough, tough. My feet were definitely bothering me now, but I soldiered on. I didn't like seeing runners going in the opposite direction just one street over. And because I didn't study that map, I didn't know how much further I was going that way before coming back this way. And the spectators were few in some of these parts too.
I saw a Canadian hat just ahead of me. I caught up beside it, and realized I knew the woman wearing it. Small world. She hangs out at the same gym as I. We encouraged each other on. I wanted to stay with her, but my energy was depleting quickly. I let her go ahead. I had another cough to get out.
Then I heard a whistle, and there CMan was again! He came onto the course, just before Mile 25, and jogged a little bit beside me, trying to capture a few more photos for posterity. I wanted to slow to a walk with him but he said I had to finish strong, and that he knew I could do it.
The Final Mile and 385 yards
I got myself together and trucked on. As I approached the 800m sign I could hear the crowd going wild, not just for me but for everyone who was less than a kilometer from the finish. I fed off that energy, and accelerated. I remembered how I finished the Scotiabank half marathon a month earlier, picking off people one by one at the end. I saw the "hill" and pretty much told it to go to hell, it was not going to slow me down. I flew up that hill, and turned the corner. This was it. I could see the finish line. I was going to finish this. I sprinted that last stretch like I was stealing something.
Raised my arms in victory, yelling all the way across the FINISH LINE.
Yelled some more, fist pumping, beaming as I accepted my medal, a cup of Gatorade, returned my chip, got a shiny space blanket. It was a super long walk through the chute. I hobbled my way back to the Trophy Tent. I was disappointed they had no more soup left and the thought of beer actually made my stomach turn. I collected my gear, and gobbled half a sandwich, skipped the massage and without Yumke or Frankie in the tent to celebrate, I left to find CMan.
I reunited with him and found that my ability to walk was rapidly waning. My sister and her husband found us near Buckingham Fountain and we made our way towards our hotel...which was so close yet so far. My body now just wanted to shut down.
I fought against it and limped best I could for two more blocks. It was odd walking along the same street where, some SIX hours ago, I was jumping up and down ready to rock this marathon.
Then my feet just stopped cooperating. I couldn't plant my foot without wincing. We hailed a cab to take us 2-1/2 blocks. Worth every penny.
Next: Race Report-Chapter 3 (The Aftermath)
Wednesday, October 25
Race Report -- Chapter One (just the hard numbers)
via chip:
START: 8:19:18 AM CST
5K: 0:35:45
10K: 1:11:53
15K: 1:47:13
20K: 2:24:23
HALF: 2:31:58
25K: 3:01:58
30K: 3:39:11
35K: 4:23:29
40K: 5:04:14
FINISH: 5:20:26
Pace: 12:13
Mile Splits
... according to my new watch. And I messed up with the button pushing near the end. Some of the signs confused me.
First 5 miles -- 11:19/11:45/11:33/11:08/10:49
Second 5 miles -- 12:49/11:22/11:17/11:17/11:28
Third 5-miles -- 12:24/11:46/11:51/11:13/11:22
Fourth 5-miles -- 14:30/11:28/12:27/7:17/4:39
Fifth 5-miles -- 11:57/30:34/12:11/13:54/14:51
The final mile -- 13:14
START: 8:19:18 AM CST
5K: 0:35:45
10K: 1:11:53
15K: 1:47:13
20K: 2:24:23
HALF: 2:31:58
25K: 3:01:58
30K: 3:39:11
35K: 4:23:29
40K: 5:04:14
FINISH: 5:20:26
Pace: 12:13
Mile Splits
... according to my new watch. And I messed up with the button pushing near the end. Some of the signs confused me.
First 5 miles -- 11:19/11:45/11:33/11:08/10:49
Second 5 miles -- 12:49/11:22/11:17/11:17/11:28
Third 5-miles -- 12:24/11:46/11:51/11:13/11:22
Fourth 5-miles -- 14:30/11:28/12:27/7:17/4:39
Fifth 5-miles -- 11:57/30:34/12:11/13:54/14:51
The final mile -- 13:14
Tuesday, October 24
Pre-race days
(major problems logging onto blogger in the past 24 hours .. apologies for the delay in posting)
THURSDAY
I got into Chicago in the afternoon after an annoying half-day of work. The limo driver asked me if I was aiming to qualify for Boston. Barely missing a beat, I said with the time that I expected to finish the race, I would need to age really quickly in a few days and be between 70-79 years old on Sunday. That produced a good chuckle. I went to Chicago a day earlier with CMan before Yumke and Frankie because we wanted to enjoy the city a little before I had to hunker down and meditate about the race. The flight was pretty uneventful, except for the hacking noises I was making the whole 1-1/2 hours there. When that settled down, I decided to keep things interesting and get a nosebleed that didn't seem to want to stop. If it's not one thing, it's another.
Decided to get to the hotel via the inexpensive and not quite direct route on the train. Before hopping on the train, noticed a group of whom I assume where the Kenyans (I'm not sure why I'm saying they were The Kenyans, but they just looked the part, okay? Sue me.) and while I wanted to ask if in fact they were the Kenyans, I decided it'd be best -- just as I would 24 hours later with Mr. Higdon -- to not breathe anywhere near their airspace, infect them, and cause them to race poorly. I still don't think I was contagious at this point, but I'm a stereotypically polite Canuck and thought it the most courteous course of action.
Checked into the Fairmont after a long train ride. Put up my feet. Called Yumke and Frankie and proclaimed how cold it was in the Windy City. Rested. Then CMan and I walked up to the MagMile, and headed to ESPN Zone where we thought we'd be able to get a table and watch some baseball. No luck. The wait was 90 minutes. We walked to a few more places, each with waits of more then 30 minutes. This appeared to be a precursor to what foraging for food may be like in a city hosting 40,000 runners, staff, and fans. Good thing Frankie planned ahead and got us reservations for the pre-race carboload, and the post-race gorgefest. Anyways, got a table at microbrewery Rock Bottom, which in hindsight kind of sucked since I wasn't going to be sampling the beer that night. Back at the hotel, watched "The Break Up" with Chicago starring alongside Jennifer and Vince. Slept fitfully because of stupid cough. Go away cough. Do you realize the marathon is on Sunday?
FRIDAY
Woke up early because cough made me. Just as well since Frankie and Yumke were both due in by 10am. Got their text messages, met them for breakfast. Told Frankie that CMan and I were opting to stay at the Fairmont, out of Frankie's airspace, because my cough was keeping me up at night. Why ruin Frankie's race with my hacking? Best to quarantine myself, a prospect I brought up before leaving for Chicago. Besides, he'd been avoiding me at work all week, communicating only through phone and instant messaging, even though we practically sit next to each other. And when we did talk, we couldn't face each other. I think it was little overdramatic on his part, but I know he worked too hard this far to be felled now. He was protecting himself. And the whole office was just a sick entity and picking a new victim every few days.
Then we went to the Expo. Saw the big countdown clock showing we were 43 hours from The Start. Collected our goodies and we each bought official New Balance merchandise. We all vowed to not wear our purchases until we earned the right -- after finishing. I bought this zippy pullover in a light and dark turquoise. And CMan bought me shoes.
We took a walk to Navy Pier, and had some surprisingly decent pasta. What to wear dominated dinner conversation. We were in good spirits. The antsiness about the weather was mounting. We just wanted to run. The weather had been perfect all day and we lamented how it probably wasn't going to come back for an encore performace on Sunday.
SATURDAY
The three of us met in the morning for a test run. Met at Buckingham Fountain. We ran a couple of miles together, though Yumke went and did his own thing when we neared the Hancock Tower. Meanwhile Frankie and I dodged pedestrians on the MagMile. We ducked into Niketown, only because I'd read about their customized pace bands. These were nifty things, though on race day I was less excited about them. More about that in the race report.
Had a nap immediately upon return from this short run. Exhausted. I didn't know if that was a bad sign of my fitness level or if it was just because I hadn't had a decent night's sleep in 10 days. I coughed only a little bit during the run. But it was nice to get the legs moving. I had worn my racing clothes, as well as a windbreaker. Too warm with the windbreaker. Good that I figured that out. I would definitely be leaving that in the hotel room for race day. Spent the afternoon with CMan and walked way too much. But he bought me a sleek watch, a Nike Imara Run.
Big delicious pre-race dinner with Frankie and his brother and father, Yumke and R, and me and CMan at Rosebud in the theater district. Frankie's family, who also told great stories, generously picked up the tab. They shouldn't have but we all very much appreciate the gesture.
Returned to hotel. Pinned my bib to my shirt. Attached the chip. Drank some water. Then time for sleep. But that stubborn cough wouldn't let me. I didn't fall asleep til around midnight. Way too late. Would this hurt me?
(more to come....)
THURSDAY
I got into Chicago in the afternoon after an annoying half-day of work. The limo driver asked me if I was aiming to qualify for Boston. Barely missing a beat, I said with the time that I expected to finish the race, I would need to age really quickly in a few days and be between 70-79 years old on Sunday. That produced a good chuckle. I went to Chicago a day earlier with CMan before Yumke and Frankie because we wanted to enjoy the city a little before I had to hunker down and meditate about the race. The flight was pretty uneventful, except for the hacking noises I was making the whole 1-1/2 hours there. When that settled down, I decided to keep things interesting and get a nosebleed that didn't seem to want to stop. If it's not one thing, it's another.
Decided to get to the hotel via the inexpensive and not quite direct route on the train. Before hopping on the train, noticed a group of whom I assume where the Kenyans (I'm not sure why I'm saying they were The Kenyans, but they just looked the part, okay? Sue me.) and while I wanted to ask if in fact they were the Kenyans, I decided it'd be best -- just as I would 24 hours later with Mr. Higdon -- to not breathe anywhere near their airspace, infect them, and cause them to race poorly. I still don't think I was contagious at this point, but I'm a stereotypically polite Canuck and thought it the most courteous course of action.
Checked into the Fairmont after a long train ride. Put up my feet. Called Yumke and Frankie and proclaimed how cold it was in the Windy City. Rested. Then CMan and I walked up to the MagMile, and headed to ESPN Zone where we thought we'd be able to get a table and watch some baseball. No luck. The wait was 90 minutes. We walked to a few more places, each with waits of more then 30 minutes. This appeared to be a precursor to what foraging for food may be like in a city hosting 40,000 runners, staff, and fans. Good thing Frankie planned ahead and got us reservations for the pre-race carboload, and the post-race gorgefest. Anyways, got a table at microbrewery Rock Bottom, which in hindsight kind of sucked since I wasn't going to be sampling the beer that night. Back at the hotel, watched "The Break Up" with Chicago starring alongside Jennifer and Vince. Slept fitfully because of stupid cough. Go away cough. Do you realize the marathon is on Sunday?
FRIDAY
Woke up early because cough made me. Just as well since Frankie and Yumke were both due in by 10am. Got their text messages, met them for breakfast. Told Frankie that CMan and I were opting to stay at the Fairmont, out of Frankie's airspace, because my cough was keeping me up at night. Why ruin Frankie's race with my hacking? Best to quarantine myself, a prospect I brought up before leaving for Chicago. Besides, he'd been avoiding me at work all week, communicating only through phone and instant messaging, even though we practically sit next to each other. And when we did talk, we couldn't face each other. I think it was little overdramatic on his part, but I know he worked too hard this far to be felled now. He was protecting himself. And the whole office was just a sick entity and picking a new victim every few days.
Then we went to the Expo. Saw the big countdown clock showing we were 43 hours from The Start. Collected our goodies and we each bought official New Balance merchandise. We all vowed to not wear our purchases until we earned the right -- after finishing. I bought this zippy pullover in a light and dark turquoise. And CMan bought me shoes.
We took a walk to Navy Pier, and had some surprisingly decent pasta. What to wear dominated dinner conversation. We were in good spirits. The antsiness about the weather was mounting. We just wanted to run. The weather had been perfect all day and we lamented how it probably wasn't going to come back for an encore performace on Sunday.
SATURDAY
The three of us met in the morning for a test run. Met at Buckingham Fountain. We ran a couple of miles together, though Yumke went and did his own thing when we neared the Hancock Tower. Meanwhile Frankie and I dodged pedestrians on the MagMile. We ducked into Niketown, only because I'd read about their customized pace bands. These were nifty things, though on race day I was less excited about them. More about that in the race report.
Had a nap immediately upon return from this short run. Exhausted. I didn't know if that was a bad sign of my fitness level or if it was just because I hadn't had a decent night's sleep in 10 days. I coughed only a little bit during the run. But it was nice to get the legs moving. I had worn my racing clothes, as well as a windbreaker. Too warm with the windbreaker. Good that I figured that out. I would definitely be leaving that in the hotel room for race day. Spent the afternoon with CMan and walked way too much. But he bought me a sleek watch, a Nike Imara Run.
Big delicious pre-race dinner with Frankie and his brother and father, Yumke and R, and me and CMan at Rosebud in the theater district. Frankie's family, who also told great stories, generously picked up the tab. They shouldn't have but we all very much appreciate the gesture.
Returned to hotel. Pinned my bib to my shirt. Attached the chip. Drank some water. Then time for sleep. But that stubborn cough wouldn't let me. I didn't fall asleep til around midnight. Way too late. Would this hurt me?
(more to come....)
Face to face with the man
The man with the plan is Hal Higdon. I read his book cover-to-cover countless times from the day Yumke gave it to me for my birthday to this past weekend. It was a good read everytime, and so much so that I bought a copy for Frankie for his birthday too almost one year ago. It was filled with all sorts of tips for a first-time marathoner like myself. I wrote my own notes in some of the margins, and dog-eared a few favorite pages. I reread many passages, especially those about injury, nutrition, and pyschology, and thoroughly enjoyed, just as he promised, every time the word "REST" came up in the book and on the training schedule.
On Friday, I came face-to-face with the man. I did my research ahead of time, and knew Higdon had a booth at the expo. I packed my book in my knapsack, hoping that if he was at his booth when I was wandering the expo, I'd ask him to sign it. I've only ever lined up once for someone to autograph my book before this, and that was for Anthony Bourdain, my culinary chef hero, when he released Les Halles Cookbook: Strategies, Recipes, and Techniques of Classic Bistro Cooking.
I had several thoughts running through my head while in line waiting with my cohorts. I'm not easily starstruck, but I was still getting a little lightheaded at the prospect of meeting the man. I'd been following his words like it was the gospel for nearly a year.
What would I say to him?
Frankie managed to ask about what to wear, and we were advised of a singlet underneath a throw-away longsleeve. I can't remember if he said shorts or pants, if he said anything about bottoms at all, but if he did, he probably said don't wear anything that you hadn't trained in before.
I was still battling a terrible cough. I was concerned about finishing. I wanted to ask him if I'd be okay despite taking the taper to new heights (depths?) because of being sick, and condense into 5 sentences or less everything that I've blogged about for the last 150+ posts. I wanted to say something eloquent.
Instead, when it was my turn I was able to muster a polite hello, say something nice about his book and his training plan, and asked very nicely, if not somewhat shyly, to sign the book. I opted not to shake his hand, thinking about my health and not wanting to infect anyone else. Not that I thought I was contagious anymore, but it was more just out of courtesy because I'm sure I'd been coughing all day into my hands.
I asked him to inscribe it to Jelly, even spelled it out, but somehow he heard it as "Gelly" -- there's a pic on Yumke's blog -- because he started to talk about how he knew someone named Angelica and he called her Gelly.
Oh well. My name isn't Angelica, as those who are adept at online investigative research may have already figured out by now. One day I may explain how I became Jellypepper.
Mission Accomplished: I am a marathoner
Chip Time: 5:20:26
I know you were wondering. Wish I could've posted that earlier, but I've obviously been (woefully) out of technology's touch since leaving for Chicago last Thursday. So much to say... here's are the chapters I'm working on, in no particular order:
Face to Face with the man
Pre-race days
Race report
The aftermath
Looking ahead
The Thank You Note
An Open Letter
And a shout out to all the Chicago Marathoners. I haven't been able to get to all of your race reports yet, but based on some very early readings, what else can I say, but YOU ROCK!
You did it!
Be proud.
I know you were wondering. Wish I could've posted that earlier, but I've obviously been (woefully) out of technology's touch since leaving for Chicago last Thursday. So much to say... here's are the chapters I'm working on, in no particular order:
Face to Face with the man
Pre-race days
Race report
The aftermath
Looking ahead
The Thank You Note
An Open Letter
And a shout out to all the Chicago Marathoners. I haven't been able to get to all of your race reports yet, but based on some very early readings, what else can I say, but YOU ROCK!
You did it!
Be proud.
Thursday, October 19
Mission Possible
I've been thinking hard about my race strategy for the last few days,
just as everyone else has. It's difficult to judge how I'll hold up --
the cough hasn't disappeared and a 3-mi test run yesterday indoors
probably wasn't the greatest barometer of what I will do come Sunday.
But I do know that I have trained hard for 15 of the 18 weeks. I took a
week off in September, and basically these last two of the taper. I hit
that proverbial wall during my one-and-only 20-miler, but now that I've seen it, I know what I have to do to
get past it. I am hoping spectators, the Chicago blogging family, my
other fans (you know who you are), and my sheer will, will all combine
as a force to see me to the end of this very long road. But that's only
part of it. I also trust in my training.
Along the way, I set some mini, and very attainable
, goals. All designed to make me think about how I run and how to
improve, and to keep me focused on a series of sm
aller projects toward to the big show. Each one accomplished.
But the very first goal I had, the most important one, is one that pops
up everyday on this page -- right there in the title. A 26.2-mile
Goal: A journal of one Toronto girl's goal to complete
the 2006 Chicago marathon.
This is all I want. To complete. Get A Finishing Medal.
Over the course of this training for my first marathon, I've done very
little of the fancy things like V02max, fartleks, hill training, keeping
track of my heart rate, etc. etc. But I don't feel any less prepared.
Time matters very little to me, but enough to for me to say I want no
part in being moved to the sidewalk. Based on my half-marathon result,
the McMillan Running Calculator says I should be able to do it in
4:52:27. I don't want to make excuses ahead of the race, but I can't
ignore this cough. It's there and I now do not believe it will go away
in time. It should be factored in. I don't intend to take unnecessary
walking breaks, but I must respect what my body tells me. There is
no shame in going for a long walk here. It's not what I want to
do, but I will if I must. But I will finish and I'll
still PR. :)
So I expect to finish, and finish somewhere with a 5-hour-and-change
time stamp.
But as my sister M so beautifully reminded me:
Best of luck to all my Chicago training partners. It's been quite the
journey and we only have a little bit more to go. It is an honor to
share this experience with each and every one of you. Run hard, run
smart, run like you know you can.
just as everyone else has. It's difficult to judge how I'll hold up --
the cough hasn't disappeared and a 3-mi test run yesterday indoors
probably wasn't the greatest barometer of what I will do come Sunday.
But I do know that I have trained hard for 15 of the 18 weeks. I took a
week off in September, and basically these last two of the taper. I hit
that proverbial wall during my one-and-only 20-miler, but now that I've seen it, I know what I have to do to
get past it. I am hoping spectators, the Chicago blogging family, my
other fans (you know who you are), and my sheer will, will all combine
as a force to see me to the end of this very long road. But that's only
part of it. I also trust in my training.
Along the way, I set some mini, and very attainable
, goals. All designed to make me think about how I run and how to
improve, and to keep me focused on a series of sm
aller projects toward to the big show. Each one accomplished.
But the very first goal I had, the most important one, is one that pops
up everyday on this page -- right there in the title. A 26.2-mile
Goal: A journal of one Toronto girl's goal to complete
the 2006 Chicago marathon.
This is all I want. To complete. Get A Finishing Medal.
Over the course of this training for my first marathon, I've done very
little of the fancy things like V02max, fartleks, hill training, keeping
track of my heart rate, etc. etc. But I don't feel any less prepared.
Time matters very little to me, but enough to for me to say I want no
part in being moved to the sidewalk. Based on my half-marathon result,
the McMillan Running Calculator says I should be able to do it in
4:52:27. I don't want to make excuses ahead of the race, but I can't
ignore this cough. It's there and I now do not believe it will go away
in time. It should be factored in. I don't intend to take unnecessary
walking breaks, but I must respect what my body tells me. There is
no shame in going for a long walk here. It's not what I want to
do, but I will if I must. But I will finish and I'll
still PR. :)
So I expect to finish, and finish somewhere with a 5-hour-and-change
time stamp.
But as my sister M so beautifully reminded me:
not just anyone can run and walk 26.2 miles. you've been
training for it and you can. Dont' you think in a way the 20 miles that
you ran was quite a feat in itself? i know the whole goal was to the
marathon, but really, the goal was for you to train and get fit. and
look how fit you are...skinny minnie! by all accounts, i'd say you've
already succeeded.
Best of luck to all my Chicago training partners. It's been quite the
journey and we only have a little bit more to go. It is an honor to
share this experience with each and every one of you. Run hard, run
smart, run like you know you can.
Packed
My bags are packed. Race gear -- ready for rain, cold, sunshine -- in the carry-on. New iPod currently charging but so far devoid of any songs. Everything else, including gels, cereal, and extra safety pins, in the suitcase I'm sharing with CMan. Who has yet to pack. But he's got all morning. I, on the other hand, still have to put in a half day of labor because BossLady sucks. At this point, it's going to be sleepy labor.
Wednesday, October 18
Reunion
My running shoes and I got reacquainted today for the first time since I fell sick what seems like an eternity ago. It was a fabulous reunion. I remember why we've become such good friends.
I started off walking at a slow, perhaps too-comfortable pace, and after 10 minutes I was bored. I knew I could do better. So I stepped up the pace to 15min/mi, a light jog, for another 10 minutes. I was breathing just fine. I didn't feel any violent cough attacks pending. So, I pushed it further to my regular "training pace" of around 12min/mi. And this just wasn't enough... I pushed it to what I figure is my "healthy race pace" of just above 11min/mi and guess what? I felt great. Who knows if I'll be able to sustain that or better pace come race day. Still working out a race strategy.
This one tiny run put a lot of my crazy headgames of doubt to rest. Worries built up over the past 10 days about my fitness level went *poof* in just 43 minutes today. I am so elated.
I started off walking at a slow, perhaps too-comfortable pace, and after 10 minutes I was bored. I knew I could do better. So I stepped up the pace to 15min/mi, a light jog, for another 10 minutes. I was breathing just fine. I didn't feel any violent cough attacks pending. So, I pushed it further to my regular "training pace" of around 12min/mi. And this just wasn't enough... I pushed it to what I figure is my "healthy race pace" of just above 11min/mi and guess what? I felt great. Who knows if I'll be able to sustain that or better pace come race day. Still working out a race strategy.
This one tiny run put a lot of my crazy headgames of doubt to rest. Worries built up over the past 10 days about my fitness level went *poof* in just 43 minutes today. I am so elated.
25339
Finally, I'm really official now. The email came through. I am No. 25339. One less thing to worry about.
I think my body is finally getting the message. After my rant post yesterday, I slept through the night for the first time in days. Which means I feel good enough to try to go to the gym today and get my legs moving again in a meaningful way. I'm aiming for a 30 minute walk on the treadmill, nothing strenuous. Not brave enough to go outside just yet, though today's balmy 12C weather and very slight breeze is tempting.
I think my body is finally getting the message. After my rant post yesterday, I slept through the night for the first time in days. Which means I feel good enough to try to go to the gym today and get my legs moving again in a meaningful way. I'm aiming for a 30 minute walk on the treadmill, nothing strenuous. Not brave enough to go outside just yet, though today's balmy 12C weather and very slight breeze is tempting.
Tuesday, October 17
Numberless, and other numbers to think about
1) Two days before departure, five days before race day, I still have no sign of a bib number. Not in snail mail or email. (I checked online again to see that I had actually signed up for this Chicago marathon, not dreamed it.)
2) I'm not healthy. Still sick. It's been more than a week now.
3) Nine days without putting on a pair of running shoes.
It's like somebody, something, somewhere really doesn't want me to do this. Well, it's not funny.
Of course, I say that in (semi)jest. But items 2 and 3 above have made me reconsider my race strategy. More on this tomorrow. I need to sleep on it.
2) I'm not healthy. Still sick. It's been more than a week now.
3) Nine days without putting on a pair of running shoes.
It's like somebody, something, somewhere really doesn't want me to do this. Well, it's not funny.
Of course, I say that in (semi)jest. But items 2 and 3 above have made me reconsider my race strategy. More on this tomorrow. I need to sleep on it.
Monday, October 16
Zero
Week 17 Tally: Zero miles. Nada. Zilch. Zip. Nothing. A big goose egg for every scheduled run in last week's training diary.
I don't even feel that bad about this anymore. After all, I was sick the entire week. And better last week than this. Scores of you have told me not to worry because I have done all the hard work already, really. But I can't help it, I do worry. I still may yet get one or two lights jogs in before race day, and I think that will help calm me down. I leave for Chicago on Thursday afternoon. I'm unsure if I've already done my last training run on Canadian ground.
I've spent the last week resting and thinking about the race, and I was able to muster up a little bit of optimism while backreading a lot of my own blog. I think I have formed habits for life -- eating well, cutting back on alcohol, and sticking to a plan. No long run has defeated me. There is no reason that this Sunday will be any different. I am really looking forward to this Chicago experience. All of it. From possibly meeting some of the others from the blogosphere, the race expo, the crowds, the architecture, pizza, the electricity of the city. Chicago, I'm ready for ya.
And because I forgot to tally it up last week:
Week 16 Tally: 29 miles. (How's that for a taper?)
Training to date: 404.33mi/650.71K
I don't even feel that bad about this anymore. After all, I was sick the entire week. And better last week than this. Scores of you have told me not to worry because I have done all the hard work already, really. But I can't help it, I do worry. I still may yet get one or two lights jogs in before race day, and I think that will help calm me down. I leave for Chicago on Thursday afternoon. I'm unsure if I've already done my last training run on Canadian ground.
I've spent the last week resting and thinking about the race, and I was able to muster up a little bit of optimism while backreading a lot of my own blog. I think I have formed habits for life -- eating well, cutting back on alcohol, and sticking to a plan. No long run has defeated me. There is no reason that this Sunday will be any different. I am really looking forward to this Chicago experience. All of it. From possibly meeting some of the others from the blogosphere, the race expo, the crowds, the architecture, pizza, the electricity of the city. Chicago, I'm ready for ya.
And because I forgot to tally it up last week:
Week 16 Tally: 29 miles. (How's that for a taper?)
Training to date: 404.33mi/650.71K
Sunday, October 15
Skinny Minny
I know I've shed some pounds since I started seriously training for this marathon. Something was bound to happen with all those hours of training and eating better. But I didn't really know, until today, how much I've benefited. I have noticed some of my pants have been fitting better, or not at all in some cases. Friends and family have commented on how fit I look, probably the fittest in 10 years.
Anyways, besides the comments from my sister everytime she sees me -- "you're such a skinny minny" -- I now have actual proof.
Back in July when I was in Kentucky for sister's wedding, we also purchased bridesmaids dresses for my cousin's wedding, which is one week after the race. This gorgeous fire-red number. When I tried it on in the store, I could get the dress on so that it fit but it didn't look so right, but not so wrong that an alteration wouldn't fix it. I had trouble taking the dress off, which really means it wasn't the right size to begin with but this store doesn't exist in Canada and there were no other sizes in the store and maybe my pride was talking a little bit too. So I really had to bank on this alteration to work in my favor otherwise I was going to be pretty screwed. But the more pressing problem at that moment was that I couldn't get the dress off by myself. I had to secretly ask CMan to slip into the dressing room with me and help me maneuver out of it. No, no dressing room shenanigans. This is a PG story.
Fast forward about three months to today. The wedding is fast approaching and perhaps I should see if those alterations need to be made because I hadn't thought about it for about 2-1/2 months. So I took it out of its wrapping, pulled the dress over my head, and I didn't even have to wriggle into it!! I am so pleased.
Health update: My cough is winding down and there's no more pleghm. I've been drinking a lot of water, tea, hot water with lemon and honey. Which basically means I need to pee every hour. At least I'm hydrated, right?
... and if you haven't seen Running Jayhawk's ode. GO. Pure inspiration.
Anyways, besides the comments from my sister everytime she sees me -- "you're such a skinny minny" -- I now have actual proof.
Back in July when I was in Kentucky for sister's wedding, we also purchased bridesmaids dresses for my cousin's wedding, which is one week after the race. This gorgeous fire-red number. When I tried it on in the store, I could get the dress on so that it fit but it didn't look so right, but not so wrong that an alteration wouldn't fix it. I had trouble taking the dress off, which really means it wasn't the right size to begin with but this store doesn't exist in Canada and there were no other sizes in the store and maybe my pride was talking a little bit too. So I really had to bank on this alteration to work in my favor otherwise I was going to be pretty screwed. But the more pressing problem at that moment was that I couldn't get the dress off by myself. I had to secretly ask CMan to slip into the dressing room with me and help me maneuver out of it. No, no dressing room shenanigans. This is a PG story.
Fast forward about three months to today. The wedding is fast approaching and perhaps I should see if those alterations need to be made because I hadn't thought about it for about 2-1/2 months. So I took it out of its wrapping, pulled the dress over my head, and I didn't even have to wriggle into it!! I am so pleased.
Health update: My cough is winding down and there's no more pleghm. I've been drinking a lot of water, tea, hot water with lemon and honey. Which basically means I need to pee every hour. At least I'm hydrated, right?
... and if you haven't seen Running Jayhawk's ode. GO. Pure inspiration.
Saturday, October 14
Curbside Crew
Time for some positive news. My sister, brother-in-law, and CMan are my curbside crew for the marathon. By happy coincidence, my sister and her husband will be flying through Chicago on marathon weekend to visit some family in Milwaukee. They plan to see me sometime on Sunday, though probably not til after the marathon to celebrate. But they'll be getting the race updates, as can you, via the Runner Update Network. CMan, of course, will fireman carry me home.
Now I better get better so I can give them something to cheer about! (Thanks to the masses for the well wishes. I still don't feel I've turned the corner, but I'm keeping positive.)
Now I better get better so I can give them something to cheer about! (Thanks to the masses for the well wishes. I still don't feel I've turned the corner, but I'm keeping positive.)
Friday, October 13
"Doubtful"
That word, not unlike "toast", is ringing in my ears as I left the doctor's office. I am mindful that this is not my regular doctor, that I resorted to the walk-in clinic across the street from work, but this doctor told me that a marathon was "doubtful" at this point. She did not specify whether that meant to start, or to finish. Neither of which is really acceptable to me anyway. I told her normally I wouldn't go to the doctor with the symptons I had, that I'd usually let them run their natural course, but with the marathon so close I needed something to help speed the recovery.
First bit of advice ClinicDoc gave me was to ditch the over-the-counter drugs. Those weren't doing a thing to help me, only to prolong the sickness. Then she said it'd probably take five days to clear up... which would still leave me a few days before actual race day. But then I go back to doubting my fitness level, my strength.
What I need are lots of fluids and rest. So that's what I'm doing this weekend? Drinking and sleeping it off. I mean sipping water and napping lots. Whatever. I was also prescribed a nasal spray, but ClinicDoc said I didn't have to use it(!) Great. Like what does that mean? It means that if my condition doesn't clear up in two days to start spraying. Okay .....
Bottom Line: I have worked too long, too hard, for Oct. 22. I am going to be at the starting line, rain or shine, or even at this point, snow. I am going to cross the finish line, even if I have to crawl there. I WILL.
First bit of advice ClinicDoc gave me was to ditch the over-the-counter drugs. Those weren't doing a thing to help me, only to prolong the sickness. Then she said it'd probably take five days to clear up... which would still leave me a few days before actual race day. But then I go back to doubting my fitness level, my strength.
What I need are lots of fluids and rest. So that's what I'm doing this weekend? Drinking and sleeping it off. I mean sipping water and napping lots. Whatever. I was also prescribed a nasal spray, but ClinicDoc said I didn't have to use it(!) Great. Like what does that mean? It means that if my condition doesn't clear up in two days to start spraying. Okay .....
Bottom Line: I have worked too long, too hard, for Oct. 22. I am going to be at the starting line, rain or shine, or even at this point, snow. I am going to cross the finish line, even if I have to crawl there. I WILL.
Thursday, October 12
Starting to worry
I missed a week of training earlier this year due to a personal choice to watch movies. Here I am again watching movies, but wanting to run. Weird.
This has been a tough couple of days. The only exercise I've done since Sunday's long run is dragging my sorry sick self from my 3rd floor bedroom to the basement to watch tv and back to the first floor to make tea and eat leftover Thanksgiving mashed potatoes. I had not left the house for two days. I went to work today, probably a mistake, and partly out of boredom. I might lobby to leave early.
The 10-minute walk to the subway this morning was about the most I could handle. I will not be running tonight because I'm still coughing, although intermittently. I may not run tomorrow to give myself another day to recover. Hopefully by Saturday or Sunday, I'll be ready to do the final week of taper activities.
Yes, I am starting to get antsy about what this means come race day. I know a few days off isn't going to completely unravel all the training to date, because what counts is what I've done throughout the whole program. The totality. And I've pretty much done my best. I know I can get to the finish line if all is in order.
But what happens if I can't shake this cold?
This has been a tough couple of days. The only exercise I've done since Sunday's long run is dragging my sorry sick self from my 3rd floor bedroom to the basement to watch tv and back to the first floor to make tea and eat leftover Thanksgiving mashed potatoes. I had not left the house for two days. I went to work today, probably a mistake, and partly out of boredom. I might lobby to leave early.
The 10-minute walk to the subway this morning was about the most I could handle. I will not be running tonight because I'm still coughing, although intermittently. I may not run tomorrow to give myself another day to recover. Hopefully by Saturday or Sunday, I'll be ready to do the final week of taper activities.
Yes, I am starting to get antsy about what this means come race day. I know a few days off isn't going to completely unravel all the training to date, because what counts is what I've done throughout the whole program. The totality. And I've pretty much done my best. I know I can get to the finish line if all is in order.
But what happens if I can't shake this cold?
Tuesday, October 10
Pajama Day
No 4mi for me today. Stayed home to recuperate from this nasty cold/headache/sore throat thing I've caught. While I feel much better after a day of catching up on TV, napping, and eating congee, I'm contemplating taking another sick day. I need to be strong and healthy for race day. And as a number of people have said to me today -- better sick now than next week.
Monday, October 9
Giving thanks
Gobble Gobble! It's Thanksgiving here in Canada, and it coincides with a rest day. Yippee! The last of the 17 guests -- whom we fed a feast of turkey, homemade stuffing, mashed spuds, roasted root vegs, nut loaf, with some other tasty contributions from the other girls in the family -- have just left and finally I can attend to my splitting headache and sore throat! Yes, I'm sick. And I do blame yesterday's cold bath.
But before I change back into my flannel pjs and have a spoonful of Nyquil, this holiday is about giving thanks. So here is a small list, and in no particular order.
I am thankful for:
-- a dishwasher, especially today
-- my friends and family
-- my health plan
-- CMan, of course
And you. The one reading my blog right now. Because for some reason you care how I'm doing on this whole marathon business. Thank you. The goal is within reach.
Now go away cold.
But before I change back into my flannel pjs and have a spoonful of Nyquil, this holiday is about giving thanks. So here is a small list, and in no particular order.
I am thankful for:
-- a dishwasher, especially today
-- my friends and family
-- my health plan
-- CMan, of course
And you. The one reading my blog right now. Because for some reason you care how I'm doing on this whole marathon business. Thank you. The goal is within reach.
Now go away cold.
Sunday, October 8
Last double digit training run
The last double-digit long run, 12 miles, is done. The most I'll do in one day is 8mi for the remainder of this training program. I'd like to say today's run was easy, but everything seemed kind of against me doing well today, at first. Even though it was a gorgeous day for running -- 18C, all sun, light breeze -- I had trouble leaving the house. I was kind of tired, despite having slept a good 8 hours. My Garmin wasn't charged up. Neither was my iPod (even though I've been leaving it at home lately, today I really wanted it). Even my shoes didn't feel right. More on this in a minute.
I eventually got my act together and left for a midday run. I picked a route that was long on the the trails, rather than on the city streets. I didn't really start to feel good about the run until I hit the trails, about 2-1/2 miles in ... and that's when my senses took over. The air smelled like autumn. The only sounds I heard were bicycles whizzing past me, or the rustle of leaves. I felt the leaves crunching underfoot. The colors -- reds, oranges, yellows -- were stunning. I wish the camera on my cellphone could do justice to what I saw. Even the chocolate power gel tasted different (ok, maybe that's because it was one of those fancy new ones with the added sodium).
I slipped my headphones off...the SundayMorningTaper mix I made this morning would get its due attention later on when I returned to the neighborhood streets. The natural beauty of this trail didn't make me run any faster. In fact, I think I ran slower to enjoy it more. I returned home in just over 2-1/2 hours.
Partway through the run, I felt a little bit of pain on the sides of my feet, mostly in the two outer toes. I had this problem earlier in the week. It hasn't bothered me too much, but enough to get me to start questioning whether my body will hold up for and during the race. I think it will, I have to believe it will. But it's been suggested that perhaps it's my socks and I should try thinner ones that may make the difference. I don't think it's my shoes, because I've had quite a good time with them for the last month. But then again, I only noticed this slight pain after last week's 20miler. Are the shoes just good enough for 16 miles at a time?
To combat this pain, I made myself sit in cold water for 10minutes. Not quite an ice bath and maybe it won't have quite the same total effect either. So far it doesn't hurt when I walk, though I am moving a bit awkwardly -- but really no different than after any other long run. Maybe it's just my head again. Thirteen days to go.
I eventually got my act together and left for a midday run. I picked a route that was long on the the trails, rather than on the city streets. I didn't really start to feel good about the run until I hit the trails, about 2-1/2 miles in ... and that's when my senses took over. The air smelled like autumn. The only sounds I heard were bicycles whizzing past me, or the rustle of leaves. I felt the leaves crunching underfoot. The colors -- reds, oranges, yellows -- were stunning. I wish the camera on my cellphone could do justice to what I saw. Even the chocolate power gel tasted different (ok, maybe that's because it was one of those fancy new ones with the added sodium). I slipped my headphones off...the SundayMorningTaper mix I made this morning would get its due attention later on when I returned to the neighborhood streets. The natural beauty of this trail didn't make me run any faster. In fact, I think I ran slower to enjoy it more. I returned home in just over 2-1/2 hours.
Partway through the run, I felt a little bit of pain on the sides of my feet, mostly in the two outer toes. I had this problem earlier in the week. It hasn't bothered me too much, but enough to get me to start questioning whether my body will hold up for and during the race. I think it will, I have to believe it will. But it's been suggested that perhaps it's my socks and I should try thinner ones that may make the difference. I don't think it's my shoes, because I've had quite a good time with them for the last month. But then again, I only noticed this slight pain after last week's 20miler. Are the shoes just good enough for 16 miles at a time?
To combat this pain, I made myself sit in cold water for 10minutes. Not quite an ice bath and maybe it won't have quite the same total effect either. So far it doesn't hurt when I walk, though I am moving a bit awkwardly -- but really no different than after any other long run. Maybe it's just my head again. Thirteen days to go.
Thursday, October 5
Pizza Thursday
CMan and I have somehow started having pizza almost every Thursday since we moved. And so as to not break from this newfound tradition, I planned my 8-mile route to end at the pizza shop. I memorized my route and off I went, decked out in my new pink half-zip long sleeve shirt and gloves (it's chilly out there!).
I started off at a very quick clip, finishing the first mile in under 10 minutes. At the end of that mile, my friend Rob, his wife and new baby drove by; we all paused to talk for a minute before cars approached. Turns out Rob and family were driving to one of the nearby trails to run. None of this city route for them ... it's not so safe while running with a baby stroller. I briefly thought about jumping in their car, since trails are much nicer, as is the company -- I dare not go trailrunning by myself once the sun starts rapidly retiring. But then I thought it'd be a real blow to my confidence if I couldn't keep up with both of them while they pushed a stroller. Parted ways.
Second mile was also under 10 minutes. I thought I should slow down; this pace wasn't sustainable. Halfway through the run, I decided to change the route and keep it fairly flat. The original route would've taken me downhill towards the water. I picked a pretty noisy route, all main streets and mostly because the light was disappearing quickly. The cars often overpowered my tunes today -- though not that it mattered since the iPod conked out shortly before Mile 5. So I took my mocha gel and trucked on. Pizza signs along the way kept reminding me of the prize at the end of this run. And the pizza dreams turned into the deep dish pie I imagine I'll have shortly after the last step of the marathon.
My improvised 8-miler route worked out to the final step.
One pepperoni, thick crust, please.
I started off at a very quick clip, finishing the first mile in under 10 minutes. At the end of that mile, my friend Rob, his wife and new baby drove by; we all paused to talk for a minute before cars approached. Turns out Rob and family were driving to one of the nearby trails to run. None of this city route for them ... it's not so safe while running with a baby stroller. I briefly thought about jumping in their car, since trails are much nicer, as is the company -- I dare not go trailrunning by myself once the sun starts rapidly retiring. But then I thought it'd be a real blow to my confidence if I couldn't keep up with both of them while they pushed a stroller. Parted ways.
Second mile was also under 10 minutes. I thought I should slow down; this pace wasn't sustainable. Halfway through the run, I decided to change the route and keep it fairly flat. The original route would've taken me downhill towards the water. I picked a pretty noisy route, all main streets and mostly because the light was disappearing quickly. The cars often overpowered my tunes today -- though not that it mattered since the iPod conked out shortly before Mile 5. So I took my mocha gel and trucked on. Pizza signs along the way kept reminding me of the prize at the end of this run. And the pizza dreams turned into the deep dish pie I imagine I'll have shortly after the last step of the marathon.
My improvised 8-miler route worked out to the final step.
One pepperoni, thick crust, please.
Wednesday, October 4
Windy City
Forget Chicago. They should rename Toronto the Windy City.
Each direction I ran today, no matter north, south, east or west, seemed to be against the wind. My mood completely matched the sky, all grey. Although I did perk up a little bit at Mile 3 when I could see a touch of blue sky emerging. But the cloud cover quickly came back. And the wind never let up.
It wasn't an easy 4-mile outing... and that was just half of what I was scheduled for. I basically did Thursday's workout today.
I cut the effort short, having decided that before I even laced up, partly because the NHL opened its season tonight -- and so I wanted to be done and riding the couch by the time the puck dropped at 7:30pm.
Oh, I was done alright. I dozed off not long after the first period. Not that the Leafs gave me anything to really stay up for.
I'll make up the miles tomorrow.
((Couch update: CMan had some sort of epiphany. We moved some stuff around, including the TV. I think I might actually be able to live with the new arrangement. Let me marinate on that. No angry calls to the store yet.))
Each direction I ran today, no matter north, south, east or west, seemed to be against the wind. My mood completely matched the sky, all grey. Although I did perk up a little bit at Mile 3 when I could see a touch of blue sky emerging. But the cloud cover quickly came back. And the wind never let up.
It wasn't an easy 4-mile outing... and that was just half of what I was scheduled for. I basically did Thursday's workout today.
I cut the effort short, having decided that before I even laced up, partly because the NHL opened its season tonight -- and so I wanted to be done and riding the couch by the time the puck dropped at 7:30pm.
Oh, I was done alright. I dozed off not long after the first period. Not that the Leafs gave me anything to really stay up for.
I'll make up the miles tomorrow.
((Couch update: CMan had some sort of epiphany. We moved some stuff around, including the TV. I think I might actually be able to live with the new arrangement. Let me marinate on that. No angry calls to the store yet.))
Tuesday, October 3
Grouchy about couches
Hal said to do 5 miles today. Oh boy was it ever hard to get out there though. And this is because my new black leather couches for the basement arrived today...designed to make a winter of couch potatoland all the more enjoyable. Except there was one problem.
These don't fit with the room. They don't look right because they're too big -- not overstuffed, just too large for the room of our size. And before you say why didn't you measure, etc etc, I blame the interior designer. Yah, that's right. How could a professional get it so wrong? He came over, measured, went back to the store and played with some computer program. It spit out this black leather couch and companion loveseat. We loved them instantly.
But one of them has to go back. CMan and I tried to position the couches differently than was suggested. Nothing worked. So I'm tasked with phoning the salesman tomorrow and bitch until I get what I want. Which is a full refund and no 30-percent restocking fee.
Well, the moral of this story is that I turned a lot of negative energy into a pretty quick 5-miler. It was dark by the time I'd started, more than an hour since Frankie had phoned to ask if I'd gone and run yet. He too was putting today's run off. But he said "taper doesn't mean don't run".
How true.
These don't fit with the room. They don't look right because they're too big -- not overstuffed, just too large for the room of our size. And before you say why didn't you measure, etc etc, I blame the interior designer. Yah, that's right. How could a professional get it so wrong? He came over, measured, went back to the store and played with some computer program. It spit out this black leather couch and companion loveseat. We loved them instantly.
But one of them has to go back. CMan and I tried to position the couches differently than was suggested. Nothing worked. So I'm tasked with phoning the salesman tomorrow and bitch until I get what I want. Which is a full refund and no 30-percent restocking fee.
Well, the moral of this story is that I turned a lot of negative energy into a pretty quick 5-miler. It was dark by the time I'd started, more than an hour since Frankie had phoned to ask if I'd gone and run yet. He too was putting today's run off. But he said "taper doesn't mean don't run".
How true.
Sunday, October 1
The next phase: Taper
The day-after aches and pain report:
* Legs: A little sore. Some trouble climbing stairs.
* Feet: No blisters. Both pinkies feel bruised though.
* Arms and upper torso: Right shoulder feels tight, but it almost always does.
In other words, everything, physically, feels normal after a long run.
And just as important, mentally, I'm still riding high from yesterday's Big 20. Here's hoping that feeling sticks for the next 21 days. I realize I hit the proverbial wall at yesterday's Mile 18, but I have seen it and can now deal with it.
Because in this next cycle of the training plan, there is no more time for reservations, hesitations, questions. I have put faith into a running plan, executed it to the best of my ability for 15 straight weeks now. I have hit some serious lows, to the point where quitting crossed my mind. But for each low, there have been twice as many, if not more, highs. One big reason is the Chicago-bound blogosphere of marathoners. Some of you support me through comments, some of you just read in from time to time, but the effect is all the same. And I think it's more or less the same in reverse -- reading, but not always commenting, about your great achievements and struggles help me understand my own quest. So a hearty thank you, and I know I don't say so enough. (Where are my manners?)
Here's just one more reason to believe:
Week 15 tally: 35.8mi/57.6K (The Big 20 is history)
Training-to-date: 375.33mi/604.04K
I greet this last phase of training with growing excitement for Oct. 22. The taper has begun. We're almost there. It's within reach. Three weeks to go and the finish line is mine. No, ours.
* Legs: A little sore. Some trouble climbing stairs.
* Feet: No blisters. Both pinkies feel bruised though.
* Arms and upper torso: Right shoulder feels tight, but it almost always does.
In other words, everything, physically, feels normal after a long run.
And just as important, mentally, I'm still riding high from yesterday's Big 20. Here's hoping that feeling sticks for the next 21 days. I realize I hit the proverbial wall at yesterday's Mile 18, but I have seen it and can now deal with it.
Because in this next cycle of the training plan, there is no more time for reservations, hesitations, questions. I have put faith into a running plan, executed it to the best of my ability for 15 straight weeks now. I have hit some serious lows, to the point where quitting crossed my mind. But for each low, there have been twice as many, if not more, highs. One big reason is the Chicago-bound blogosphere of marathoners. Some of you support me through comments, some of you just read in from time to time, but the effect is all the same. And I think it's more or less the same in reverse -- reading, but not always commenting, about your great achievements and struggles help me understand my own quest. So a hearty thank you, and I know I don't say so enough. (Where are my manners?)
Here's just one more reason to believe:
Week 15 tally: 35.8mi/57.6K (The Big 20 is history)
Training-to-date: 375.33mi/604.04K
I greet this last phase of training with growing excitement for Oct. 22. The taper has begun. We're almost there. It's within reach. Three weeks to go and the finish line is mine. No, ours.
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