This week I had a horrible nightmare about my upcoming Half Marathon in Portland on May 19th. Essentially everything went wrong in the most bazaar ways. I woke up with my heart pounding and feeling as though I had not slept a wink. Maybe my brain knew training way coming?
This morning I received an email the the course route had been revealed. Not a huge deal since I live out of state, it's not like I can train on the course but it is nice to know. It looks like it will be beautiful! Then I got to thinking, I threw out my old training plan but had written a good guideline in my planner at work, How many weeks do I have before I need to get on it? None, well this week. Training officially, and gradually, starts next week. Holy Moly! Reality set in big time! My boss is doing several races so we chatted about how nervous we are, it's nice to have her to bounce ideas off of.
The moral of the story; I'm not too worried. I can go out today and do 5 miles with relative ease (my current pace is: 11:36-11:00). I'm about 40% of the way there, not too shabby. Don't get me wrong I will have to work for the other 8.1 miles but I feel like I can do this. I've been cross-training , Hello Bodycombat, which I believe is helping immensely. And having done my first race under a year ago I feel like I have a good grasp on my body (what it needs, what helps etc).
Who else is doing a race soon? How are you feeling?
-Jen
Showing posts with label training. Show all posts
Showing posts with label training. Show all posts
February 8, 2013
December 29, 2012
Running in the Cold
If you knew me in real life you would know I'm not a big fan of winter. I don't snowboard, ski etc because I don't like to be cold and don't warm up quickly. Too bad I've spent almost my entire life in the pacific northwest eh?
Anyway I wanted to toot my own horn today. I've been working out at the gym for a few months since the cold weather hit our area, even running a few miles a couple times a week on the treadmill (which is similar to Chinese water torture if you ask me!). This morning Liam slept in and I couldn't pry myself out of bed in time to make it to my bodycombat class that I've been loving so much. The three of us just enjoyed a lovely lazy Saturday morning and before we knew it Liam needed a nap, aka workout time for Momma.
After Liam went down I went back and forth on what to do for my workout, I'd missed all the classes and really only wanted cardio since I can still get strength workouts in later this weekend. I kept checking the weather channel, ugh below 30*. Finally I just got dressed and even posted a facebook status "too bad I'm not hardcore enough to run outside in the cold, off to the gym I go". I went outside to get my car out of the garage...hmmm it's not too bad out here. I got the car our and went back inside to change. V had gotten me a base layer for Christmas and I already had warm pants, gloves and a hat...I'll just go a little ways and see how it feels. I got out there and it was awesome. So awesome! I did my 'ol 4.5 mile loop that I love so much and even made really great time!!
I don't have to start training for a few more weeks, but I'm excited to know that I can still get in a good outside run every now and then!! Yay me!!
And just for fun, here is a pic I found on the web, this was an actual sign along the half marathon route last year!! Too funny!!!
Anyway I wanted to toot my own horn today. I've been working out at the gym for a few months since the cold weather hit our area, even running a few miles a couple times a week on the treadmill (which is similar to Chinese water torture if you ask me!). This morning Liam slept in and I couldn't pry myself out of bed in time to make it to my bodycombat class that I've been loving so much. The three of us just enjoyed a lovely lazy Saturday morning and before we knew it Liam needed a nap, aka workout time for Momma.
After Liam went down I went back and forth on what to do for my workout, I'd missed all the classes and really only wanted cardio since I can still get strength workouts in later this weekend. I kept checking the weather channel, ugh below 30*. Finally I just got dressed and even posted a facebook status "too bad I'm not hardcore enough to run outside in the cold, off to the gym I go". I went outside to get my car out of the garage...hmmm it's not too bad out here. I got the car our and went back inside to change. V had gotten me a base layer for Christmas and I already had warm pants, gloves and a hat...I'll just go a little ways and see how it feels. I got out there and it was awesome. So awesome! I did my 'ol 4.5 mile loop that I love so much and even made really great time!!
I don't have to start training for a few more weeks, but I'm excited to know that I can still get in a good outside run every now and then!! Yay me!!
And just for fun, here is a pic I found on the web, this was an actual sign along the half marathon route last year!! Too funny!!!
December 12, 2012
Rock & Roll {Half} Marathon Series 2013
Today (on 12/12/12) you can save yourself $20 off the registration cost of Rock & Roll Series Races. Today I bit the bullet and registered for my 2nd Half Marathon...Portland Rock and Roll Half Marathon. Yikes! Looks like I'm actually doing this!
I actually told V that I wanted my registration fee for the race to be at least part of my Christmas present since I thought it would be over $80 (I paid $66.50 with today's discount). I'm blessed to have his total support and the support of my amazing friends.
I have at most 6 weeks before I start training and cleaning up my eating! I'll post my training plan soon! This will also be part of my 2013 Goal List I'm working on (and also promise to post soon).
Yikes, lots happening soon quickly! I also need to post about the flooring I picked out (I pick out other finishes tomorrow! Lots of posts coming soon, promise!
Much Love,
Jen
I actually told V that I wanted my registration fee for the race to be at least part of my Christmas present since I thought it would be over $80 (I paid $66.50 with today's discount). I'm blessed to have his total support and the support of my amazing friends.
I have at most 6 weeks before I start training and cleaning up my eating! I'll post my training plan soon! This will also be part of my 2013 Goal List I'm working on (and also promise to post soon).
Yikes, lots happening soon quickly! I also need to post about the flooring I picked out (I pick out other finishes tomorrow! Lots of posts coming soon, promise!
Much Love,
Jen
July 9, 2012
The Day After {My First Half Marathon}
Today has been slightly surreal. It's hard to believe that yesterday really did happen. When my alarm went off at 6am I was completely confused and really wanted another hour of sleep! Putting my feet to the floor was slightly painful and I was a bit stiff but I didn't have time to be stiff-life was calling! I showered and got ready for work before Liam was awake (typical day), not gonna lie I was hobbling around! I specifically chose to wear a dress to work and dressy sandals so I didn't have to deal with pants and heals. After Liam was up we all ate breakfast and before we knew it the time had come to head out.
The work day was long and short all at once. My boss and co-worker also did the half marathon (my boss did her first half marathon last year and my co-worker did her first full last year). For every one minute of work we did we talked about the race for eight minutes, it was really funny! My boss commented several times that we were all still on a runner's high! I could tell my body wasn't handling sitting at a desk all day well; it craved a walk, some stretching, salad and sunshine. No dice. Thankfully we all did go to lunch and enjoyed some Mexican food which also meant a short walk in the sun.
Finally quitting time rolled around, I thought for sure I could at least get Liam out for a quick walk right when I got us home. No dice again, it starting to thunder before we even got around the block. After feeding all of us, Liam needed a bath and suddenly it was 7pm and Liam was exhausted so we put him to bed. Freedom! V totally understood and set me free! I went to Target and just wondered around. I emerged to cooler temps (it had been upper 90's earlier in the day). I returned home and walked around our neighborhood, it felt so good to just walk! After a while I was missing my hubby so I went home and snuggled until bed time (well, I blogged just before heading to bed, wink-wink).
The funny thing is I sorta feel like I did last summer, right after having Liam. My priority (second to taking care of my family) is listening to my body, I'm eating what I feel called to eat and, when possible, just doing what will help it heal. I feel great now, I'm super happy and proud of this accomplishment....and just might be already planning my next (much shorter) run/race. Hehe!!
Nighty-Night!
Jen
July 8, 2012
My First Half Marathon
Bucket List Item Accomplished!
I slept surprisingly well the night before, I had gone to bed around 8:30p and would say I was out by 9:15p. I woke up a few times during the night but nothing that I couldn't go right back to sleep, I got up right before my alarm would have gone off at 4am sharp. I had everything I needed in the living room as to let V rest. I must admit I enjoyed the silence and my own wondering thoughts. It was the first time I really started to think about crossing the finish line. After I as all dressed I stood in the bathroom and just looked at my reflection for a moment; WOW, I really did it, I'm really here and I'm about to do this! There was no fear just a general "wow" feeling. I ate some scrambled eggs and a tiny cup of coffee and before I knew it I had to head out.
I drove under the cover of night through our city to downtown (just blocks from our home), parked my car and scurried over to the bus line. Luckily I ran into a friend! We both shared nervous chatter in line and on the bus ride. Our city was still in slumber when we arrived at the stating area. We still had a good 40 mins so we stretched, warmed up a little and took potty breaks. They lit off fireworks every 15 minutes as a countdown to start time, the sun wasn't up yet and it was a fitting celebration. My friend and I parted ways as we both had different race styles.
Then at 6am sharp BOOM! With a cannon shot the race began! I was near the front but slower so I made sure to move to the side so others could pass. I jogged for a few miles then decided to conseve energy and start my walk/jog pattern (not timed just according to my body's direction). We started in a less populated area, the river was so pretty! Even at that early hour people had come out of their homes to cheer us on! My mother-in-law surprised me throughout the race three times! I knew she planned the first one, the second time had me super teary (I had to pull it together quickly as to not trigger my asthma), the third time she had V and Liam! I felt so very loved!
The first 8 or so miles of the race didn't seem that difficult, other than the fact that the race organizers didn't have as many gels as I assumed from the race material. Until 9 I was running on mostly Gatorade! Yikes! Finally around mile 10 I was able to get a gel pack and an orange! It was exactly what I needed to finish the race! Also around this time my co-worker found me! She had some difficultly getting her training runs in so I was happy to see that she had indeed decided to do the race!
Along the race I texted V, my bestie E and another friend where I was and when I expected to be done. The last three miles were hard and I had to walk a lot. In the back of my mind I really hoped to finish in less than 3 hours (I knew I could do this if I kept my average of a 12 min/mile). I promised myself I'd be happy as long as I finished the race! The people cheering us at the end were extra nice and supportive You are doing great! Keep going! You are ALMOST there!! They called out! Many of them throughout the race had sprinklers out in the street for us to run through, this was especially helpful now! I couldn't have cared less if I ruined my ipod and phone as long as I got to cool off for a minute!
Around mile 12 the first full marathoner lapped me! He would be the winner doing 26.2 miles in 2:32! Dang! I rounded the last corner determined to run/jog to the finish line! Then out of the corner of my eye was my bestie! She had a prime spot and would take the pics I've posted below! She kept cheering me as I slowly inched toward the finish line (I really needed her support right then!!)
I remember hearing a stranger say Smile they are taking pictures! But I was spent, my exhausted look was all I could give....until....the finish line, in all it's glory there it was!!! We all had these chips on our shoes to give us official times, they also provided the announcer our names so as we crossed they would call them out, not gonna lie it was one of the most awesome moments of my life! A metal was placed around my neck by a stranger that I really wanted to hug! But...I hadn't seem my mother-in-law, V or Liam....had I missed them? I wondered. I had just seen them 4 miles ago. Then to my left there they were! I started to ball because, well, that is who I am...it's a knee jerk reaction. Liam was completely confused. I was still in the "runners only" area so I told them I'd see them shortly. I should also mention this is where I started to go into my own little world. It was like my body was on auto pilot and high at the same time! Thankfully you are forced to go through a area where you can get beverages and food if you choose. I choose water and some fruit. My co-worker found me again and we kinda half spacey chatted (I have no idea what we talked about!)
Then I passed back into the real world and out of the "runners only" area. V, Liam, mother-in-law and bestie were all waiting to congratulate me! I also have no recollection of what we spoke about. I remember some pictures being taken and holding Liam though my body didn't feel strong enough to. We went down to the runners after gig and my body was quickly coming back to reality, time to get home!
At home I quickly showered, I've never felt so gross in my lifetime! While Liam napped I ran out and got the food my heart desired, came home and ate with V. It's almost 8pm now and I still haven't napped. I'm begining to feel the wear of the day and after this I plan on hitting the hay. It's back to the real world tomorrow, it seems so unfair to have such a life changing day today and have to work tomorrow!
This will surely be just the first of many half marathons for me! Currently I don't plan to do a full marathon but I guess you never know!
Much Love
-Jen
I slept surprisingly well the night before, I had gone to bed around 8:30p and would say I was out by 9:15p. I woke up a few times during the night but nothing that I couldn't go right back to sleep, I got up right before my alarm would have gone off at 4am sharp. I had everything I needed in the living room as to let V rest. I must admit I enjoyed the silence and my own wondering thoughts. It was the first time I really started to think about crossing the finish line. After I as all dressed I stood in the bathroom and just looked at my reflection for a moment; WOW, I really did it, I'm really here and I'm about to do this! There was no fear just a general "wow" feeling. I ate some scrambled eggs and a tiny cup of coffee and before I knew it I had to head out.
I drove under the cover of night through our city to downtown (just blocks from our home), parked my car and scurried over to the bus line. Luckily I ran into a friend! We both shared nervous chatter in line and on the bus ride. Our city was still in slumber when we arrived at the stating area. We still had a good 40 mins so we stretched, warmed up a little and took potty breaks. They lit off fireworks every 15 minutes as a countdown to start time, the sun wasn't up yet and it was a fitting celebration. My friend and I parted ways as we both had different race styles.
Then at 6am sharp BOOM! With a cannon shot the race began! I was near the front but slower so I made sure to move to the side so others could pass. I jogged for a few miles then decided to conseve energy and start my walk/jog pattern (not timed just according to my body's direction). We started in a less populated area, the river was so pretty! Even at that early hour people had come out of their homes to cheer us on! My mother-in-law surprised me throughout the race three times! I knew she planned the first one, the second time had me super teary (I had to pull it together quickly as to not trigger my asthma), the third time she had V and Liam! I felt so very loved!
The first 8 or so miles of the race didn't seem that difficult, other than the fact that the race organizers didn't have as many gels as I assumed from the race material. Until 9 I was running on mostly Gatorade! Yikes! Finally around mile 10 I was able to get a gel pack and an orange! It was exactly what I needed to finish the race! Also around this time my co-worker found me! She had some difficultly getting her training runs in so I was happy to see that she had indeed decided to do the race!
Along the race I texted V, my bestie E and another friend where I was and when I expected to be done. The last three miles were hard and I had to walk a lot. In the back of my mind I really hoped to finish in less than 3 hours (I knew I could do this if I kept my average of a 12 min/mile). I promised myself I'd be happy as long as I finished the race! The people cheering us at the end were extra nice and supportive You are doing great! Keep going! You are ALMOST there!! They called out! Many of them throughout the race had sprinklers out in the street for us to run through, this was especially helpful now! I couldn't have cared less if I ruined my ipod and phone as long as I got to cool off for a minute!
Around mile 12 the first full marathoner lapped me! He would be the winner doing 26.2 miles in 2:32! Dang! I rounded the last corner determined to run/jog to the finish line! Then out of the corner of my eye was my bestie! She had a prime spot and would take the pics I've posted below! She kept cheering me as I slowly inched toward the finish line (I really needed her support right then!!)
I remember hearing a stranger say Smile they are taking pictures! But I was spent, my exhausted look was all I could give....until....the finish line, in all it's glory there it was!!! We all had these chips on our shoes to give us official times, they also provided the announcer our names so as we crossed they would call them out, not gonna lie it was one of the most awesome moments of my life! A metal was placed around my neck by a stranger that I really wanted to hug! But...I hadn't seem my mother-in-law, V or Liam....had I missed them? I wondered. I had just seen them 4 miles ago. Then to my left there they were! I started to ball because, well, that is who I am...it's a knee jerk reaction. Liam was completely confused. I was still in the "runners only" area so I told them I'd see them shortly. I should also mention this is where I started to go into my own little world. It was like my body was on auto pilot and high at the same time! Thankfully you are forced to go through a area where you can get beverages and food if you choose. I choose water and some fruit. My co-worker found me again and we kinda half spacey chatted (I have no idea what we talked about!)
At home I quickly showered, I've never felt so gross in my lifetime! While Liam napped I ran out and got the food my heart desired, came home and ate with V. It's almost 8pm now and I still haven't napped. I'm begining to feel the wear of the day and after this I plan on hitting the hay. It's back to the real world tomorrow, it seems so unfair to have such a life changing day today and have to work tomorrow!
This will surely be just the first of many half marathons for me! Currently I don't plan to do a full marathon but I guess you never know!
Much Love
-Jen
July 6, 2012
32ish Hours Until My FIRST Half Marathon
If I said I felt completely ready I'd be lying. My little family unit of 3 spent the last week at the family cabin which means I've done almost no running. The final week before a half or full marathon you aren't supposed to train hard but I would feel better if I'd gotten at least one or two runs in, but it just wasn't in the cards.
With that said, I'm as ready as I can be. Tomorrow I'll pick up my registration info, maybe go on a sort hike for some last minute cross training (or maybe a walk), I'll have a big pasta dinner along with the powerade I've been chugging. I have comfortable and work-out appropriate clothing and shoes...all the equipment I need. I've worked hard for months, it's not about my time, it's just about finishing.
V is being supportive as he has been this whole time. He, Liam, my in-laws, and bestie are planning to meet me at the end of my race. It's funny because I imagine most people spend a lot of energy thinking about the moment they cross the finish line....I haven't. I'm certain I'll cry because that is just who I am but other than that I haven't really thought much about, I sorta just look at this as another run (reality will surely set in when I see the thousands of people waiting to start the race too). I am blessed to live in a beautiful city, I can't wait to do this run and as I've mentioned before I'm pretty excited to have it done too. :)
I'll surely post a few pics and the results after I have recovered!
Much Love,
Jen
With that said, I'm as ready as I can be. Tomorrow I'll pick up my registration info, maybe go on a sort hike for some last minute cross training (or maybe a walk), I'll have a big pasta dinner along with the powerade I've been chugging. I have comfortable and work-out appropriate clothing and shoes...all the equipment I need. I've worked hard for months, it's not about my time, it's just about finishing.
V is being supportive as he has been this whole time. He, Liam, my in-laws, and bestie are planning to meet me at the end of my race. It's funny because I imagine most people spend a lot of energy thinking about the moment they cross the finish line....I haven't. I'm certain I'll cry because that is just who I am but other than that I haven't really thought much about, I sorta just look at this as another run (reality will surely set in when I see the thousands of people waiting to start the race too). I am blessed to live in a beautiful city, I can't wait to do this run and as I've mentioned before I'm pretty excited to have it done too. :)
I'll surely post a few pics and the results after I have recovered!
Much Love,
Jen
June 25, 2012
Final Week of Marathon Training
I'm so thankful that my marathon (half marathon to be specific) is coming to a close, at least for this race. I am still absolutely in love with running however I'm becoming exhausted. Here is an overview of reasons I'm ready to be done training.
Much Love,
Jen
- Liam is going to bed later and later which means I'm running later and later.
- It's getting difficult to find enough time to run 8+ miles (this takes me around 2 hours).
- When I run late I can't fall asleep, typically I'm out at 9:30p...when I run after 8pm I don't get to bed/fall asleep until around 11p (and I have to be up at 6a to get ready for work).
- It's getting HOT here, last night I ran at about 8pm and it was still in the eighties....too hot for this girl! Last night I only did two miles and was dripping sweat!
- I'm yearning to hike, hiking and training is killing me (although I love how tone my legs are). It's just too much to mix.
- My body is just tired, luckily the rest of my runs before the actual marathon are 4 miles are less.
- Lastly, I'm just ready to go out and run with no mileage requirement, no nothing other than the desire to run.
Much Love,
Jen
June 1, 2012
My {Running} Addiction
Finding the time to run is a challenge but it's always worth it once I'm out there doing it. Last night was the perfect example of this. V made dinner after he got home around 5:45p, we all ate and before we knew it Liam's bedtime had arrived. I changed into my running clothes, got Liam ready for bed, V gave him the last bottle of the evening and I read to him. Soon V was placing our little blessing in his bed and I was headed out the door. I always stop to tell V exactly where I am going and how long it should take, it's just something I have to do.
7:30ish I was out the door and on the pavement. One earphone playing my favorite songs and the rhythm of my pace carried me away. There are a few things I must be worried about because they kept bouncing through my mind, each time I'd push them away and just enjoy the moment. Not to mention I had to pay attention to traffic on my way to the trail. It was a comfortable 65 degrees, I was working hard enough that I needed to take off my top layer shirt, the cooler air felt so good as I went along the winding river path. There is what some call a "running community" here, and now that I consider myself a runner I understand why! It is beautiful place to run, running here has given me a new understanding and love of this city. I wish I could eloquently describe how running clears my mind but my words are too simple, the peace and silence is such a blessing! I almost always feel like I have a fresh perspective and the energy to take on the world after a run.
I logged four miles last night, had you told me six months ago that I would be doing this I would have laughed at you. Doing a marathon has always been on my bucket list but I guess I never really thought it was achievable considering I've had asthma for 20 years. I don't even recall why exactly I took up running this spring but I did and the more I did it the more I thought I really could do the half marathon this summer! Now it's a true joy and passion in my life. I'm deeply concerned about running in the fall and winter, running on a treadmill just isn't the same...in fact it's mind numbing comparatively. Before I knew it 50 minutes had passed, I was back at my front door dripping sweat, feeling so relaxed and ready for a snack and shower. I always get the best rest the night after a good run!
Two of my co-workers run with their children, age 17 and 11, I genuinely hope that one day running is a hobby that Liam and I can enjoy together. Perhaps that should be on my bucket list (although if running isn't his thing that is ok).
Much Love
-Jen
(*written 5/31, I didn't have time to post it)
7:30ish I was out the door and on the pavement. One earphone playing my favorite songs and the rhythm of my pace carried me away. There are a few things I must be worried about because they kept bouncing through my mind, each time I'd push them away and just enjoy the moment. Not to mention I had to pay attention to traffic on my way to the trail. It was a comfortable 65 degrees, I was working hard enough that I needed to take off my top layer shirt, the cooler air felt so good as I went along the winding river path. There is what some call a "running community" here, and now that I consider myself a runner I understand why! It is beautiful place to run, running here has given me a new understanding and love of this city. I wish I could eloquently describe how running clears my mind but my words are too simple, the peace and silence is such a blessing! I almost always feel like I have a fresh perspective and the energy to take on the world after a run.
I logged four miles last night, had you told me six months ago that I would be doing this I would have laughed at you. Doing a marathon has always been on my bucket list but I guess I never really thought it was achievable considering I've had asthma for 20 years. I don't even recall why exactly I took up running this spring but I did and the more I did it the more I thought I really could do the half marathon this summer! Now it's a true joy and passion in my life. I'm deeply concerned about running in the fall and winter, running on a treadmill just isn't the same...in fact it's mind numbing comparatively. Before I knew it 50 minutes had passed, I was back at my front door dripping sweat, feeling so relaxed and ready for a snack and shower. I always get the best rest the night after a good run!
Two of my co-workers run with their children, age 17 and 11, I genuinely hope that one day running is a hobby that Liam and I can enjoy together. Perhaps that should be on my bucket list (although if running isn't his thing that is ok).
Much Love
-Jen
(*written 5/31, I didn't have time to post it)
March 30, 2012
My Fitness Blog
Hey Peeps,
I posted anther tid-bit on my Health/Fitness Blog: Wildflower Fitness....hop on over there to check it out, please.
Much Love,
Jen
I posted anther tid-bit on my Health/Fitness Blog: Wildflower Fitness....hop on over there to check it out, please.
Much Love,
Jen
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