That is me. I am Cinderunner. Remember Cinderella? She was a princess for one night at the ball. She was outfitted in fine clothes, she was chaperoned by royalty, she was driven in the carriage, and she was in heaven all the while.
I want to savor every delicious moment of what is to come. I want to let go of the fear gripping my heart, robbing me of breath, wrenching my chest. I signed up to race, right? So why am I so terrified now? Is it that I cannot let go of the terrible defeat I suffered at Long Beach marathon last October? I was so well trained, so fine tuned, felt so fabulous until mile 17. That is where i began to fantasize about stepping out into traffic and having a car hit me so I could simply stop running. On a guerny sounded better than to keep racing. But how did it all go to pot so quickly? One minute, I was gliding on air, gleefully dancing by thousands of other runners, on pace to run 3:25. That dream came crshing down by the time I got to mile 23, when it was apparent I would not even make my Boston qualifying time of 3:40. I finished Long Beach in 3:49, a huge disappointment knowing the miles and hours I had logged. I staggered over to a trash can and emptied the contents of my stomach for what seemed like an eternity. That race left a bad taste in my mouth, both literally and figuratively.
Ah, but back to Cinderunner, right? So, a running geek like me gets to pretend I am an elite athlete while posing for the media, being catered to with special services (to not have to wait in line for my bib is amazing enough), and getting free running gear. It is all a really sweet deal. The special shuttle (my carriage), my uniform (the dress), and the royal treatment (the VIP tent at the start and finish). I am so grateful and appreciative...and then I remember, it is still a race. I have to actually run this thing and do my best. I will have cameras following me and I will be trying not to lose my cookies at mile 23. How can I possibly remain anonymous with the vomit problem when we are being documented? I am terrifeid of all of these things. And, that is not to even mention the pain we know we will endure by mile 20.
So, I am in a personal battle. I feel like I am in a self-inflicted bubble of wanting to disappear a little. Here we are being interviewed and treated like celebrities, and I simply want to climb into bed and go to sleep for a few days. Really, I have no expectation of winning the competition among the 4 other runners. 2 of them are seasoned, veteron marathoners. The other 2 are men and that means they are competitive by birth right. If I can run a respectable race with my head held high (read: not in the trash can) and represent well for San Diego and all the things I value in my running and life, then I will be elated. I hope to enjoy the run, not melt in the sun (we never train in the heat and there is little sun to speak of at 4 am), and hold it all together for the cameras. I hope we can maintain a comfortable pace and run a negative split. That would be ideal.
For now, I am trying to stay healthy and germ-free. This is almost impossible living with 2 petri dishes, ages 3 and 5. Think good thoughts and please send any positive mantras this way.
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
Thursday, May 25, 2006
10 more days
Can that be true? 10 days sounds like nothing...and it is. I am beginning to feel terrified, like this pit in my stomach will not be ignored anymore. I am looking for any sign of injury or illness to derail me as an excuse not to run the marathon. I keep taking inventory of the body parts and questioning if they all feel intact. The body really is a machine. The parts are designed and intended to work together, but sometimes one little something is out of alignment and all bets are off. My back truly aches today.
Tempo run. 3 mile warm up and then a 4 mile tempo run around UCSD's campus. Finished in 29:56. The first mile was 7:22, which was smooth and comfy, considering we usually run tempo pace at 6:45ish. I checked my watch the second mile, we were at 14:57. I forgot to look at mile 3 and then finished just under 30 minutes. I think we picked it up a little the last mile or so. I feel satisfied with that, knowing that last mile is the hardest with the steep hill they don't call Bishops and Chunks for no reason (because it is a 2 part hill and about 11 years ago, someone by the name of Bishop left some chunks there on hill repeats). It all felt pretty good.
I hope I don't live to regret this last tempo workout. I am not sure exactly what is advised. When one asks 10 different people, one will get 10 different answers about the proper way to taper coming into the final days. I think my body is telling me it is time to back it off and enjoy the taper. I am feeling all the little fibers in my muscles...really, everything hurts today, not just my legs. My back is aching, my arches are talking, my quads feel a little tender. Shall I go on about my butt?
Tempo run. 3 mile warm up and then a 4 mile tempo run around UCSD's campus. Finished in 29:56. The first mile was 7:22, which was smooth and comfy, considering we usually run tempo pace at 6:45ish. I checked my watch the second mile, we were at 14:57. I forgot to look at mile 3 and then finished just under 30 minutes. I think we picked it up a little the last mile or so. I feel satisfied with that, knowing that last mile is the hardest with the steep hill they don't call Bishops and Chunks for no reason (because it is a 2 part hill and about 11 years ago, someone by the name of Bishop left some chunks there on hill repeats). It all felt pretty good.
I hope I don't live to regret this last tempo workout. I am not sure exactly what is advised. When one asks 10 different people, one will get 10 different answers about the proper way to taper coming into the final days. I think my body is telling me it is time to back it off and enjoy the taper. I am feeling all the little fibers in my muscles...really, everything hurts today, not just my legs. My back is aching, my arches are talking, my quads feel a little tender. Shall I go on about my butt?
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
11 Days and counting
I am still in denial about this race rapidly approaching. Everyday brings a new mental challenge to overcome, a self defeating doubt that comes creeping in, a question of worthiness for the marathon once again. I push those thoughts down and try to replace them with reminders of great training runs and countless miles logged.
Today was 6 1/2 easy miles with T. Felt so good to cruise and chat. On to the pool.
Hammer set Wednesday, as coach Terry calls it. That just never sounds promising to a non-swimmer. In fact, it evokes serious fear in my heart and creates some nausea. I procrastinated as long as I could before I got in the water today. Sipped some coffee on the pool's edge and chatted with anyone who would have conversation. Resigned myself to the fact that the pool was not going away so I either had to get in or get in the shower. I always think of the old saying "sink or swim". For me, the more appropriate one would go something like this: "sink or shower". I got in and swam 300 warm up, long course, after all.
Warmup was 10 100s on base plus 5, every third one stroke. That was pallatable, though the pace felt a little faster than I could muster. I claimed caboose and hung on to the feet in front of me. I swam one more 300 and then the clock saved me.
Something occured to me as I was grinding out those 100s, however. I am always accutely aware of how much I dread swimming. I mean, I love all things associated with it: the smell of chlorine on my skin (even at the end of the day after showering twice), the ache in my traps after a tough set, the heaviness in my chest as I am lumbering for breath on the wall. But, really, it is still so freaking hard for me. I never get in the pool and feel like I have arrived. It is never, never easy. Even on days I feel tired, I can run forever. It may not be pretty, but I can still crank out the miles and be in a realitively happy place. In the pool, I simply agonize over every minute and just want to quit.
So, as all of these self depreciating thoughts were plaguing me, a little thought came to my mind. It was a gift, really. Even as I was hating all of my deficiencies in the water, I was thinking of my huband's remarkable talent. One of the things that really drew me to him from early on was his love for all things water. He loves the ocean. He used to surf often (before life got in the way). He can get in the ocean and command it. He is Neptune of the sea. His stroke is so beautiful and his confidence in the water is unmistakeable. I am so very much in awe of someone who can do that. I appreciate his lack of fear or defeat for the water. The man can swim forever, and that is a talent I envy and wish I could emmulate. I guess this is my podium for bragging about him and his athletic abiltities. He is extremely humble, though he knows in his heart he is great. I think that is what contributes to our relationship success. We are nowhere near being able to compete or even train together. He is so much faster than I am in all three disciplines, and I am more than okay with that.
I am embarrassed to admit it, but I would not respect a partner who was not stronger, faster, better than I am in sports. Something about it seems a little archaic, anti anything I learned in all my feministic sociology classes at UCSD and UCSC, but for me, it makes perfect sense. I need a man who can out swim, cycle and run me so I feel provided for, in a silly way, perhaps, but nonetheless, taken care of. As if I were ever out in the ocean and in need of rescue, I know he would be able to provide that lifeguard quality. He is an Ironman afterall, right? In the same way, I know he does not feel like he ever has to compete with me and I think that does his ego just fine. We just work together. We compliment each other's training without ever being together in those athletic endevours. We can inspire and encourage even when apart. I think that is why Rock N Roll will be so amazing. Even if I bomb and have a pathetic time (stay tuned, people; this is a great possibility if the heat continues on race day as it has been), it will be a great day to know he is out there, somewhere very far ahead of me in the distance. I will think that I am retracing his steps as I plod along, more than an hour behind him.
Guernsey, you are amazing in all things athletic and super adorable, too. Thanks for being a beacon all these dark days in the pool. Love you.
Today was 6 1/2 easy miles with T. Felt so good to cruise and chat. On to the pool.
Hammer set Wednesday, as coach Terry calls it. That just never sounds promising to a non-swimmer. In fact, it evokes serious fear in my heart and creates some nausea. I procrastinated as long as I could before I got in the water today. Sipped some coffee on the pool's edge and chatted with anyone who would have conversation. Resigned myself to the fact that the pool was not going away so I either had to get in or get in the shower. I always think of the old saying "sink or swim". For me, the more appropriate one would go something like this: "sink or shower". I got in and swam 300 warm up, long course, after all.
Warmup was 10 100s on base plus 5, every third one stroke. That was pallatable, though the pace felt a little faster than I could muster. I claimed caboose and hung on to the feet in front of me. I swam one more 300 and then the clock saved me.
Something occured to me as I was grinding out those 100s, however. I am always accutely aware of how much I dread swimming. I mean, I love all things associated with it: the smell of chlorine on my skin (even at the end of the day after showering twice), the ache in my traps after a tough set, the heaviness in my chest as I am lumbering for breath on the wall. But, really, it is still so freaking hard for me. I never get in the pool and feel like I have arrived. It is never, never easy. Even on days I feel tired, I can run forever. It may not be pretty, but I can still crank out the miles and be in a realitively happy place. In the pool, I simply agonize over every minute and just want to quit.
So, as all of these self depreciating thoughts were plaguing me, a little thought came to my mind. It was a gift, really. Even as I was hating all of my deficiencies in the water, I was thinking of my huband's remarkable talent. One of the things that really drew me to him from early on was his love for all things water. He loves the ocean. He used to surf often (before life got in the way). He can get in the ocean and command it. He is Neptune of the sea. His stroke is so beautiful and his confidence in the water is unmistakeable. I am so very much in awe of someone who can do that. I appreciate his lack of fear or defeat for the water. The man can swim forever, and that is a talent I envy and wish I could emmulate. I guess this is my podium for bragging about him and his athletic abiltities. He is extremely humble, though he knows in his heart he is great. I think that is what contributes to our relationship success. We are nowhere near being able to compete or even train together. He is so much faster than I am in all three disciplines, and I am more than okay with that.
I am embarrassed to admit it, but I would not respect a partner who was not stronger, faster, better than I am in sports. Something about it seems a little archaic, anti anything I learned in all my feministic sociology classes at UCSD and UCSC, but for me, it makes perfect sense. I need a man who can out swim, cycle and run me so I feel provided for, in a silly way, perhaps, but nonetheless, taken care of. As if I were ever out in the ocean and in need of rescue, I know he would be able to provide that lifeguard quality. He is an Ironman afterall, right? In the same way, I know he does not feel like he ever has to compete with me and I think that does his ego just fine. We just work together. We compliment each other's training without ever being together in those athletic endevours. We can inspire and encourage even when apart. I think that is why Rock N Roll will be so amazing. Even if I bomb and have a pathetic time (stay tuned, people; this is a great possibility if the heat continues on race day as it has been), it will be a great day to know he is out there, somewhere very far ahead of me in the distance. I will think that I am retracing his steps as I plod along, more than an hour behind him.
Guernsey, you are amazing in all things athletic and super adorable, too. Thanks for being a beacon all these dark days in the pool. Love you.
Tuesday, May 23, 2006
Tuesday Track Day
Or so it is supposed to be for me. I got to the gym at 4 am and did chest and back and cardio. Got to track by 6 am for the Elite interview, which was totally cool, though I was sad to only squeek in 4 x 800s. I was out of time. The workout was 2-3 sets of 800 cut downs. Mine looked like this:
800 @ 3:20
800@3:15
800@3:10
800@3:20
I think the team is super fun and I really enjoyed the interview people. Sometimes we cross the paths of people and we are not totally sure why they touch us in a certain way. That was the feeling I experienced with these Elite production people. There was nothing plastic or superficial about them; not like the Hollywood types I grew up with. Producers always think they are too cool for school, but these guys were super mellow. I like that.
I am in total denial that the marathon is now days away...12 days away. Yikes!
800 @ 3:20
800@3:15
800@3:10
800@3:20
I think the team is super fun and I really enjoyed the interview people. Sometimes we cross the paths of people and we are not totally sure why they touch us in a certain way. That was the feeling I experienced with these Elite production people. There was nothing plastic or superficial about them; not like the Hollywood types I grew up with. Producers always think they are too cool for school, but these guys were super mellow. I like that.
I am in total denial that the marathon is now days away...12 days away. Yikes!
Tuesday Track Day
Or so it is supposed to be for me. I got to the gym at 4 am and did chest and back and cardio. Got to track by 6 am for the Elite interview, which was totally cool, though I was sad to only squeek in 4 x 800s. I was out of time. The workout was 2-3 sets of 800 cut downs. Mine looked like this:
800 @ 3:20
800@3:15
800@3:10
800@3:20
I think the team is super fun and I really enjoyed the interview people. Sometimes we cross the paths of people and we are not totally sure why they touch us in a certain way. That was the feeling I experienced with these Elite production people. There was nothing plastic or superficial about them; not like the Hollywood types I grew up with. Producers always think they are too cool for school, but these guys were super mellow. I like that.
I am in total denial that the marathon is now days away...12 days away. Yikes!
800 @ 3:20
800@3:15
800@3:10
800@3:20
I think the team is super fun and I really enjoyed the interview people. Sometimes we cross the paths of people and we are not totally sure why they touch us in a certain way. That was the feeling I experienced with these Elite production people. There was nothing plastic or superficial about them; not like the Hollywood types I grew up with. Producers always think they are too cool for school, but these guys were super mellow. I like that.
I am in total denial that the marathon is now days away...12 days away. Yikes!
Monday, May 22, 2006
Monday in the rain
Isn't the rainy season over? I was awakened at 3 am to pouring rain, I mean, howling rain. I laid in bed before the alarm went off and weighed my options. What were the chances that the girls would want to run in this? Pretty good, I reckoned, so I dragged myself out of bed into the dark and to the gym. Did a quick lift and when I got back into the car, found 2 voice messages. both Theresa and Susan had called within 5 minutes of each other cancelling the run. It was still pouring.
So, there I sat in the car, rain pounding against my windows, debating my next move. Did I really want to run alone in the cold sleet? No. Definitely not. I considered going back home and climbing into bed. I probably would have if I were not such a germaphobe. There was no way I could shower without waking the household and I was not about to climb back into clean sheets clamy and sweaty from the germy gym. The compromise was to go back inside the gym and get on the gauntlet (the rotating staircase) for an hour. I sweat like a pig, which was well deserved, considering I ate like one this past weekend in Malibu.
Back in the car and into the pool. Long Course. I think I only swam about 1000 before I had to get out and get home for hubs to get out the door to golf. The sun had actually broken through with the promise of a nice day. That is was.
The team was supposed to meet to run tonight, but they moved the run to tomorrow night last minute. Kind of a bummer, since I cannot make it. Next time, maybe.
So, there I sat in the car, rain pounding against my windows, debating my next move. Did I really want to run alone in the cold sleet? No. Definitely not. I considered going back home and climbing into bed. I probably would have if I were not such a germaphobe. There was no way I could shower without waking the household and I was not about to climb back into clean sheets clamy and sweaty from the germy gym. The compromise was to go back inside the gym and get on the gauntlet (the rotating staircase) for an hour. I sweat like a pig, which was well deserved, considering I ate like one this past weekend in Malibu.
Back in the car and into the pool. Long Course. I think I only swam about 1000 before I had to get out and get home for hubs to get out the door to golf. The sun had actually broken through with the promise of a nice day. That is was.
The team was supposed to meet to run tonight, but they moved the run to tomorrow night last minute. Kind of a bummer, since I cannot make it. Next time, maybe.
Sunday, May 21, 2006
MaliBlue
We just got in from a weekend in Malibu, my hometown. Marc makes fun of me, but I am convinced the air is just sweeter there. I know, I know, it is still part of Smog Angeles, but the air always smells like sweet summer sage and sea salt to me. I have so many incredible memories of growing up on those shores, caked in salt water and burning to a crisp all summer long on the sand. The waves are friendlier, the water more inviting, and the shopping so much better. The friends and family I keep there make it that much sweeter, of course, but I think even the stars shine brighter up there. The kids were so fun in the pool at my family's house. They were so happy to be wild and showing off for the fam. It was a great weekend and I am blue over leaving some aspects of it. I am always anxious to return to San Diego, desperate to not prolong the inevitable car trip any longer than we have to with 2 small children. They actually did great on the ride, both ways, thanks to the DVD player. Sometimes, parenting is not totally conventional and we are forced to lean heavily on modern conveniences. Sometimes, really, it is all about survival....in the car, in a race, in a workout, in life. I think training makes me a better parent. It puts everything into perspective.
I took today off and only ran 6 miles yesterday. Dropped hubs off in the parking lot of the Michael Landon (deny it, but you know you loved Little House on the Praire) park in the Bu, where he met Ironman Mike for a ride. I then ran a little loop, nice and easy, about 45 minutes. Not sure, exactly, since I didn't wear my watch. It was freeing. There were a ton of cyclists out on PCH, soaking up the sun. The sun! What a concept! There was sun there, too! I had almost forgotten what it was like in all this May gray. The view was beautiful and drinking in the air was intoxicating. Now, it is back to the grind. Think I am a little blue over the Bu.
I took today off and only ran 6 miles yesterday. Dropped hubs off in the parking lot of the Michael Landon (deny it, but you know you loved Little House on the Praire) park in the Bu, where he met Ironman Mike for a ride. I then ran a little loop, nice and easy, about 45 minutes. Not sure, exactly, since I didn't wear my watch. It was freeing. There were a ton of cyclists out on PCH, soaking up the sun. The sun! What a concept! There was sun there, too! I had almost forgotten what it was like in all this May gray. The view was beautiful and drinking in the air was intoxicating. Now, it is back to the grind. Think I am a little blue over the Bu.
Friday, May 19, 2006
16 miles on the Coast
Met Theresa at 4:15 am and began our run from Starbucks in Carmel Valley. You realize we always start at a Starbucks for some incentive when we are on the run home. We went north 8 miles to Cardiff State Beach and back. Out in 1:01 and back in 56:30, so that was good for a negative split. Felt good, though dark (as usual) and humid this morning. Theresa is a firm believer that wearing a shirt slows one down. I am always conscious that I don't want to offend anyone by running naked, but today it was hot, so off the shirt came. I actually missed the pool this morning, but leaving for LA tonight left me little choice but to do the long run today. Glad that is in the bag and now we can enjoy the weekend.
Thursday, May 18, 2006
Aquathon Dreamy
Bis, tris and some legs in the gym. Did some tricky abs and hurt my back. Very bummed that I had to resort to even ask hubby to come home from work so I could get into the Running Doctor. He adjusted my back and it is a little better.
Supposed to have done the 8 mile tempo run out Torrey Pines and back. Because I was suffering from back pain, I cut it to only 6 miles and took it easy. We are meeting at 4:15 am to run 16 in the morning. I hope I feel better by then.
On a totally awesome note, my man did the TRi Club Aquathon tonight and cleaned up. Oh, yeah, second, and that was behind superman Jim Vance. Not bad for a guy who has done nothing all week and has not been in the pool. His swim was surprisingly slow (for him, some of us can only aspire to be in the first pack, as opposed to shark bait trailing out behind), but he kicked booty in the run to take second. You are awesome, my love. I dig you.
Supposed to have done the 8 mile tempo run out Torrey Pines and back. Because I was suffering from back pain, I cut it to only 6 miles and took it easy. We are meeting at 4:15 am to run 16 in the morning. I hope I feel better by then.
On a totally awesome note, my man did the TRi Club Aquathon tonight and cleaned up. Oh, yeah, second, and that was behind superman Jim Vance. Not bad for a guy who has done nothing all week and has not been in the pool. His swim was surprisingly slow (for him, some of us can only aspire to be in the first pack, as opposed to shark bait trailing out behind), but he kicked booty in the run to take second. You are awesome, my love. I dig you.
Wednesday, May 17, 2006
Highway to the Danger Zone
This is the gay song we had running through our minds this morning as we were running. Running with the San Diego Track Club last Saturday reminded me of these lyrics. That group is notorious for playing throwback songs and Theresa and I were laughing about it this morning. We had to break out in song. I think Susan thought we had lost it? The three of us met at 4:30 and did 8 miles from Starbucks. Quick coffee and then on to the pool. Megan leadthe lane, Allison second, and I was the caboose. This was my kind of lane today. All chicks and lots of talk while sipping coffee on the wall between sets. Somebody remind me why I am not fast in the pool?
600 warmup
250 (50 stroke, 200 free)
200 (free)
150 (50 stroke, 100 free)
100 (free)
50 (stroke)
6 x 50 stroke/swim
200 base
Out of time, so I got out. Felt good...I love short in the pool. Hopefully tonight brings a ride, 22 miles usually.
600 warmup
250 (50 stroke, 200 free)
200 (free)
150 (50 stroke, 100 free)
100 (free)
50 (stroke)
6 x 50 stroke/swim
200 base
Out of time, so I got out. Felt good...I love short in the pool. Hopefully tonight brings a ride, 22 miles usually.
Tuesday, May 16, 2006
Tuesday Track Day
Gym first thing for a circuit...mostly uppers, though some legs.
3 mile warm up
3x400 on 1:35, 1:32, 1:32
2x600 on 2:17, 2:18
1x800 on 3:23
lap recovery
1x 800 on 3:19
2x600 on 2:14, 2:13
3x400 on 1:29, 1:28, 1:29
Felt good. My calf is tight tonight. Icing right now.
3 mile warm up
3x400 on 1:35, 1:32, 1:32
2x600 on 2:17, 2:18
1x800 on 3:23
lap recovery
1x 800 on 3:19
2x600 on 2:14, 2:13
3x400 on 1:29, 1:28, 1:29
Felt good. My calf is tight tonight. Icing right now.
Monday, May 15, 2006
What is a "mother"?
I have been pondering this question in light of Mother's Day. Since I had no time to workout yesterday (Mothers Day), I had lots of time to reflect on it. I still cannot believe I am a mom. Really, sometimes I think it is scary that I am responsible for bringing up other human life. We know there is a learning curve in all things we attempt. I often hope and pray that the curve of child rearing is not so steep that I adversely affect their psychological well being. All of this to say, I know for myself, I am a better mom when I am a mom who has taken the time for herself to exercise in the morning. My fuse is not as short, my tolerance for little things is greater, and all things just seem right with the world when I have had a cardio fix. That being said, Mothers Day was nice to be spent with the fam, but lacking a huge component of what I love so much...a workout.
Today was a 6 1/2 mile run followed by 1800 in the pool. I am taking my hubby's friend's advice. Chad, a seasoned swimmer and polo player, said he keeps all things in the pool short and sweet, like 1500, so he doesn't burn out. I am going to use that one for my benefit and hope it works for me, too. Perhaps that is my new mantra in the pool, "Shorter is better, shorter is better..."
Tonight is a scheduled short run with the Elite/Foot Locker Team in Torrey Pines. I am nervous about pace and conversation, but anticipating good things. Hope I am not overly optimistic about it all. We shall see.
Tonight....
The run was an easy 40 minutes or so through Torrey Pines trails. The guys are all very nice and I am looking forward to the race, though nervous now, as usual. I think we might all be able to bring a little something to the table to ante up and contribute something positive for each other. I am so happy to be in taper mode.
Today was a 6 1/2 mile run followed by 1800 in the pool. I am taking my hubby's friend's advice. Chad, a seasoned swimmer and polo player, said he keeps all things in the pool short and sweet, like 1500, so he doesn't burn out. I am going to use that one for my benefit and hope it works for me, too. Perhaps that is my new mantra in the pool, "Shorter is better, shorter is better..."
Tonight is a scheduled short run with the Elite/Foot Locker Team in Torrey Pines. I am nervous about pace and conversation, but anticipating good things. Hope I am not overly optimistic about it all. We shall see.
Tonight....
The run was an easy 40 minutes or so through Torrey Pines trails. The guys are all very nice and I am looking forward to the race, though nervous now, as usual. I think we might all be able to bring a little something to the table to ante up and contribute something positive for each other. I am so happy to be in taper mode.
Saturday, May 13, 2006
Pearls From Training?
Today was the day. 22 miles. I really was on the fence about doing it. I was thinking maybe only 18 or 20, but the course was such that I was commited to the whole 22. Theresa and I met at Hospitality Point in Mission Beach and were running by 5 am sharp. I love that about triple A personality runners. 5 am is not really 5 am. If your watch is 10 minutes fast, you may be okay for the start. If your watch keeps current time, you are already 10 minutes late for a training run. It was dark and humid, but the air smelled of all things I remember from living down in South Mission when we were first married: damp grass, beach, stinky trash from the cans, cigarette smoke from the homeless people who were out even before we were. Smells evoke such strong memories. I was reminiscent of all the really great things hubby and I did before kids when we were locals down there: eating sushi out often, lingering, lazy days on the beach, surfing after work outside our (rental) home. It made me crave a little quality time with hubs. It was really great to remember him in that light and feel so much in love again. It also made me realize that I need to get out of the same running routine more often. Time is just at such a premium, I have a hard time justifying spending 3 plus hours running and even more for travel time. Today, it was worth it.
Like I said, Theresa and I started at Hospitality Point and ran the designated course for the San Diego Track Club. We, however, began before the group. It was sweet victory to be finishing as they were running out another 2 hours, as we passed each other along the bike path. Hard to believe that huge group would be plodding along under the 10:30 am sun. Sometimes I am so grateful to be quadruple A personality and up before the other crazies. The course was a little out and back to South Mission and then out to Crown Point and back. This kept it interesting and fun, and to be honest, the ignorance was bliss because I was not exactly sure how far we had to go at the start. It was nice to be running in the dark, both literally and figuratively, as it made for an interesting and more enjoyable run. We finished in 3:01 for the 22 miles. It felt so much better than 2 weeks ago, the same distance. Not sure if that is because there were less (read:no) hills involved today or just a better day. I got very little sleep last night, which always stresses me out a little for the long run, but it seemed to effect me little today, which was great.
The really beautiful thing about Theresa is that we can chatter away together, or we can run, stride for stide, in silence simply listening to each other's feet on the pavement or rhythm of our breathing. It is nice to be in company, but lost in one's own thoughts. The second half of the run was very much this way. I had a lot of time to think and reflect and be lost in thought. I could not stop thinking about what I read yesterday from my daughter's little book of devotionals and how I came across something that was revelant to both Theresa and to me for my training. It was a story about a pearl in an oyster.
"Oysters make beautiful, gleaming pearls. When a tiny grain of sand gets inside the oyster's shell, this grain of sand makes the oyster very uncomfortable. In response to this irritation, the oyster begins to coat the grain of sand with something called nacre, made of protein and calcium, Layer after layer of nacre coats the grain of sand until, at last, a beautiful pearl is formed. Because of its pain, the oyster creates something precious."
Why do we suffer in both this sport and life? Sometimes the pain and irritation are things out of our control. We lose people we love, we lose out on a job we desire, we lose something we really value. However, sometimes, we inflict the pain on ourselves. what are we thinking? Are we are trying to achieve something greater than ourselves? In spite of the discomfort, what are we hoping to gain? I have been so caught up in the idea of qualifying for Boston at Rock N Roll and then agonizing over the decision to run with the Foot Locker Team (knowing that I will not qualifying with them, as we all have to stick together for the first 13 miles at, most likely, a 9 minute pace). I know that I will not be able to make up the chunk of change I need to for Boston in the second half of the race. Today it occured to me that I just need to enjoy the journey. The journey that has taken me this far and the one the day of the race. All of this preparation, all of the sacrifice, all the hard work along the way, I know there will be a pearl at the end of the race. It may not be my fastest marathon, but I am hopeful it will be a journey worthwhile and one that will teach me another life lesson, or "pearl". I look forward to learning what that lesson is when I cross the finish line June 4th.
"For I know the plans I have for you", declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future." -Jeremiah 29:11
Like I said, Theresa and I started at Hospitality Point and ran the designated course for the San Diego Track Club. We, however, began before the group. It was sweet victory to be finishing as they were running out another 2 hours, as we passed each other along the bike path. Hard to believe that huge group would be plodding along under the 10:30 am sun. Sometimes I am so grateful to be quadruple A personality and up before the other crazies. The course was a little out and back to South Mission and then out to Crown Point and back. This kept it interesting and fun, and to be honest, the ignorance was bliss because I was not exactly sure how far we had to go at the start. It was nice to be running in the dark, both literally and figuratively, as it made for an interesting and more enjoyable run. We finished in 3:01 for the 22 miles. It felt so much better than 2 weeks ago, the same distance. Not sure if that is because there were less (read:no) hills involved today or just a better day. I got very little sleep last night, which always stresses me out a little for the long run, but it seemed to effect me little today, which was great.
The really beautiful thing about Theresa is that we can chatter away together, or we can run, stride for stide, in silence simply listening to each other's feet on the pavement or rhythm of our breathing. It is nice to be in company, but lost in one's own thoughts. The second half of the run was very much this way. I had a lot of time to think and reflect and be lost in thought. I could not stop thinking about what I read yesterday from my daughter's little book of devotionals and how I came across something that was revelant to both Theresa and to me for my training. It was a story about a pearl in an oyster.
"Oysters make beautiful, gleaming pearls. When a tiny grain of sand gets inside the oyster's shell, this grain of sand makes the oyster very uncomfortable. In response to this irritation, the oyster begins to coat the grain of sand with something called nacre, made of protein and calcium, Layer after layer of nacre coats the grain of sand until, at last, a beautiful pearl is formed. Because of its pain, the oyster creates something precious."
Why do we suffer in both this sport and life? Sometimes the pain and irritation are things out of our control. We lose people we love, we lose out on a job we desire, we lose something we really value. However, sometimes, we inflict the pain on ourselves. what are we thinking? Are we are trying to achieve something greater than ourselves? In spite of the discomfort, what are we hoping to gain? I have been so caught up in the idea of qualifying for Boston at Rock N Roll and then agonizing over the decision to run with the Foot Locker Team (knowing that I will not qualifying with them, as we all have to stick together for the first 13 miles at, most likely, a 9 minute pace). I know that I will not be able to make up the chunk of change I need to for Boston in the second half of the race. Today it occured to me that I just need to enjoy the journey. The journey that has taken me this far and the one the day of the race. All of this preparation, all of the sacrifice, all the hard work along the way, I know there will be a pearl at the end of the race. It may not be my fastest marathon, but I am hopeful it will be a journey worthwhile and one that will teach me another life lesson, or "pearl". I look forward to learning what that lesson is when I cross the finish line June 4th.
"For I know the plans I have for you", declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future." -Jeremiah 29:11
Thursday, May 11, 2006
Running to catch up
That is the story of my life. This has actually been a very good week, as far as workouts go. I feel good, have been consistent and have had some fun in the pool (for something new and different). This morning, I was running to hang on to my girl, Theresa. I had the ride from last night still in my legs and paid for it coming up Torrey Pines Hill.
I am so behind in blogging, but as hubby's blog states, we had a great run Saturday. Supposed to be 16 miles, but was more like 19, which was a confidence boost. Felt good and pushed hard. The most exciting thing that happened this week was that I was chosen to run on the Elite Racing/Footlocker Challenge Team for Rock N Roll. Not sure what it all invloves (other than a commitment to finish the race and hopefully not puke at the finish line), but I am excited to be recognized as a middle of the packer and hopefully represent my people well. We 3:45 ish people need a little love sometimes, too.
This morning I hit the gym for a circuit and then met Theresa at the track at 5:30 to run Torrey Pines. It was about 8 miles, maybe a little more, out and back. We ran tempo pace, very solid (finished in 1:01) and then picked it up at the end for a tough finish. T almost dropped me. The mist in the air, the smell of the ocean, it doens't get any better than this. I love running with good girlfriends and seeing the sun come up. We are so fortunate to live where we do.
Looking forward to this weekend being the last long run, 22 miles. Ouch. Marathon, here we come.
I am so behind in blogging, but as hubby's blog states, we had a great run Saturday. Supposed to be 16 miles, but was more like 19, which was a confidence boost. Felt good and pushed hard. The most exciting thing that happened this week was that I was chosen to run on the Elite Racing/Footlocker Challenge Team for Rock N Roll. Not sure what it all invloves (other than a commitment to finish the race and hopefully not puke at the finish line), but I am excited to be recognized as a middle of the packer and hopefully represent my people well. We 3:45 ish people need a little love sometimes, too.
This morning I hit the gym for a circuit and then met Theresa at the track at 5:30 to run Torrey Pines. It was about 8 miles, maybe a little more, out and back. We ran tempo pace, very solid (finished in 1:01) and then picked it up at the end for a tough finish. T almost dropped me. The mist in the air, the smell of the ocean, it doens't get any better than this. I love running with good girlfriends and seeing the sun come up. We are so fortunate to live where we do.
Looking forward to this weekend being the last long run, 22 miles. Ouch. Marathon, here we come.
Friday, May 05, 2006
Back Blog
So, I am still on the fence about continuing this blog. Or, perhaps I will continue it and not publish. Don't know. I am behind in bloggin' the workouts.
Wednesday found me in the gym lifting upper body then to the pool for some long set I cannot remember, about 2000, short course.
Thursday..my baby boy is 3 today! I am in disbelief! I was back to the gym, more upper body with a bit of legs, as well. Then a Torrey Pines run with Theresa, 8 miles. Great to hear the ocean coming down the hill and the climb back felt like nothing after racing up it. That was a good feeling, no doubt.
Today was legs in the gym and then 2100 in the pool, short course. I feel good about my swims this week, though I did nothing on the bike and that is depressing. I should have a least got on the trainer a bit. Oh well. A weekend and a new week is upon us.
Wednesday found me in the gym lifting upper body then to the pool for some long set I cannot remember, about 2000, short course.
Thursday..my baby boy is 3 today! I am in disbelief! I was back to the gym, more upper body with a bit of legs, as well. Then a Torrey Pines run with Theresa, 8 miles. Great to hear the ocean coming down the hill and the climb back felt like nothing after racing up it. That was a good feeling, no doubt.
Today was legs in the gym and then 2100 in the pool, short course. I feel good about my swims this week, though I did nothing on the bike and that is depressing. I should have a least got on the trainer a bit. Oh well. A weekend and a new week is upon us.
Tuesday, May 02, 2006
Tuesday Track
Bis/ Tris in the gym
4 mile warm up
Track workout: 6:50 pace
400/ 400 recovery
800/ 400 recovery
1200/ 400 recovery
1 mile/ 400 recovery
4 mile warm up
Track workout: 6:50 pace
400/ 400 recovery
800/ 400 recovery
1200/ 400 recovery
1 mile/ 400 recovery
Monday, May 01, 2006
Monday again?
Where did the weekend go???
4:45 am
6 1/2 mile run with Susan and Theresa. Good to have girlfriends. Run was smooth and easy.
6 am pool
short course
300 warmup
All on base of 1:40ish
2 X 50, 100, 150
50, 100, 150, 200
50, 100, 150, 200 (last 50 of each stroke)
Swim felt good, but felt much better to get out and shower. Went to chiropractor Dr. Jeffers today, aka "The Running Doctor". He said he is seeing tons of patients right now for adjustments coming into Rock N Roll. When I told him we ran 23 miles yesterday and at the pace we did, he said that it was nuts. He said he never runs more than one 20 mile run for a marathon and that is at 6 minute pace. He thinks it is nuts to run more than 2 hours at this point in training, as it is asking for injury.
I am so torn. Do I stick with the original plan and for the next few weekends run the scheduled 15, 22, 15 or do I skip that last 22? In my heart, I am thinking it might be a little much, especially with this nagging knee I have been icing. That would be the 4th 20 plus miler and I am thinking it might be too much on a three week taper. In the past I have always done it, but maybe it has hurt me? The Running Doctor has given me some food for thought. Maybe I do the 15 and then only 18 and back to 15? I need to weigh all the pros and cons.
4:45 am
6 1/2 mile run with Susan and Theresa. Good to have girlfriends. Run was smooth and easy.
6 am pool
short course
300 warmup
All on base of 1:40ish
2 X 50, 100, 150
50, 100, 150, 200
50, 100, 150, 200 (last 50 of each stroke)
Swim felt good, but felt much better to get out and shower. Went to chiropractor Dr. Jeffers today, aka "The Running Doctor". He said he is seeing tons of patients right now for adjustments coming into Rock N Roll. When I told him we ran 23 miles yesterday and at the pace we did, he said that it was nuts. He said he never runs more than one 20 mile run for a marathon and that is at 6 minute pace. He thinks it is nuts to run more than 2 hours at this point in training, as it is asking for injury.
I am so torn. Do I stick with the original plan and for the next few weekends run the scheduled 15, 22, 15 or do I skip that last 22? In my heart, I am thinking it might be a little much, especially with this nagging knee I have been icing. That would be the 4th 20 plus miler and I am thinking it might be too much on a three week taper. In the past I have always done it, but maybe it has hurt me? The Running Doctor has given me some food for thought. Maybe I do the 15 and then only 18 and back to 15? I need to weigh all the pros and cons.
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