Still running . . . sort of

Have you been reading my blog (the 5 of you who still actually read . . .) and thought it ironic that the title is Marathon Mom, yet I NEVER talk about running anymore? Well . . . I do still run. I guess its just become a regular part of my routine, so it hardly seems noteworthy.

Until this weekend, when I got injured. Developed an injury I suppose - it really isn't something that happened all at once. My knee has been bothering me for awhile, and I've been treating it with ibuprophen and occasional rest. But, since I typically run for distance and not speed, its been kept at bay. But this past Saturday, I had 10 miles scheduled as part of my training for a half-marathon next month. It was feeling good. Too good, and I was pushing the pace up a hill much faster than I should (running for speed always seems to get me injured). And I felt good - until suddenly I didn't feel good anymore. That nagging knee pain suddenly went from non-existent to a 9.5 on the pain scale.

I tried walking. I tried running slowly. Eventually, I just went home, cutting my run short by 3 miles. My knee still hurt the next morning too. In fact, its bothered me all weekend.

I think its my IT band, which is apparently a common running injury. But not so treatable. I've been trying to stay off it - I ran 2.5 slow miles today - and to treat with stretching and NAISDs. But it still hurts, and I'm discouraged.

So, maybe Marathon Mom isn't such a good name anymore. Send me healing vibes please.

Red Rock Relay

**These pictures are out of order, and I GIVE UP trying to make them cooperate.

I have a love/hate relationship with running. Really, I mostly hate it. But, I put up with it so that I can enjoy those few wonderful runs. A couple of weeks ago, I had one of those experiences where all the running paid off. I was able to compete in the Red Rock Relay, a 186 mile, self-supported, 12-person relay in Southern Utah. My team, the Herriman Hotties, was comprised of me, and 11 other of the most amazing women I have ever gotten the chance to know.

The race started at Brian Head Ski Resort - at 11,000 feet - the top of the slope. It was freezing up there. (like in the 40s with wind) I tried to save up the coldness, because I knew by that time the next day, it would be in the 90s, and I'd be wishing I was colder.

Since the race is a relay, one runner goes at a time, and the switch off is made at designated chutes. The team was divided up into two vans: runners 1-6 in the Snow Van and runners 7-12 in the Sun van. I was runner #8, so I had a few hours to kill before our van got to run. Luckily, Cedar Breaks was close-by, as was our friend's cabin, where we got the chance to "chill" while we waited for our turn.

Finally, it was my turn - I felt like I had been sitting around all day, and it felt sooo good to finally RUN. My first leg was only about 4.5 miles, and honestly, I wasn't that worried about it. But OH how wrong I was. What had been described by the race website as "gentle rollers" really turned out to be big, fat hills at 10,000 feet. With an icy col headwind. I was freezing, and could. not. breathe. But, somehow, I found a way to finish (barely) without puking on my shoes. In fact, I didn't puke at all. :)

By the time runner #11 got a chance to go, it had already gotten dark. The last 2 runners in our van had to run down the canyon into Cedar City in the dark. A windy, steep, road, with barely any shoulder. It was none too safe - but luckily they survived.

We made our second van exchange at about 10:00 pm on the Snow College campus. We hit up Denny's for the most delicious meal I'd ever eaten (I'm not kidding) and then actually had about 3 hours to sleep in a hotel. It felt so nice to lay down, but I never fell asleep. I felt like my heart was still racing, and my calf had a cramp.

About 3:00 am, we got the call that it was time for the next van exchange. We met them in the middle of the night. My turn came quickly, and I got to run a short and easy 3.5 miles in the dark. It was amazing - the stars were so bright, and I felt alive. I didn't feel like I'd had no sleep, and I especially didn't feel the Denny's in my gut. Other than the feeling of being watched (and the strange sounds behind me that made me feel like I was being followed) it was a perfect run. Whoo hoo. 2 down, 1 to go.
I'll spare you, dear reader, of the boring stuff that led up to my last run. Let it suffice to say that, by the time I got the chance to run again, it was about 1:00 pm and 95 degrees. My last run was 6.7 miles - the first 2-ish downhill, and the last 5-ish all. up. hill. In the 95+ degree heat. (and yes, I still had not had any sleep) I actually felt fresh and really good for the first 2-3 miles. I was running fast, and my legs were strong.

I think that because I felt so good, I pushed it a bit too hard. Because, around mile 4, I hit the wall. Just in case you've never heard this term, here is how Wiki describes it:

In endurance sports, particularly cycling and running, hitting the wall or the bonk describes a condition caused by the depletion of glycogen stores in the liver and muscles, which manifests itself by precipitous fatigue and loss of energy. Milder instances can be remedied by brief rest and the ingestion of food or drinks containing carbohydrates. The condition can usually be avoided by ensuring that glycogen levels are high when the exercise begins, maintaining glycogen levels during exercise by eating or drinking carbohydrate-rich substances, or by reducing exercise intensity.

I'd never had this happen to me before - I even thought that because I run so slowly that I may be immune. But, alas, I'm not. I hit the wall and wanted to die. I actually thought that maybe I was dying. My head pounded, my legs felt like lead, and I had goosebumps (despite the heat). At the time, I attributed the was I was feeling to the head, but in retrospect, I think it had more to do with the fact that I'd eaten less than 200 calories since my Denny's meal 14 hours before.

Since the race is self-supported, our van would drive ahead a mile or two and wait for the runner to come up - offer drinks, etc - and then drive ahead again. By the time I made it to the van, I wanted to crawl in and close my eyes. Instead, I took some Gatoraid and trudged on. By this time, I was only managing a slow walk - running was out of the question. I told the van to go ahead a mile, and by the next mile I was feeling worse.

Thankfully, one of my team members Jen jumped out to walk along side me. She was amazing, and really helped. She even pushed me to try and run a bit - which I could only do for about 30 seconds. Sadly though, I didn't finish. With less than a mile to go, she finished my leg for me.

FAIL.
Within 30 minutes of eating (I'd gotten a Subway sandwich) I felt better, and I was literally kicking myself for wimping out. That was truly the only black mark on the entire race.

We finished in Springdale, just outside of Zion National Park about 5:00 pm - the happy/sad ending to one of the best weekends of my life.

Phat mom running

At our house, Monday night is Family Night. For FHE, we do not schedule any other activities unless it is family time, and we dedicate the entire night to spending time as a family. This past Monday, we decided to take advantage of the warm weather, and to work on our family goal to become more "fit" - so we headed down to the Jordan River Parkway Trail. The girls took their bikes, and I laced up my running shoes.

Now, if you live in the Valley, and you have never been down to the Parkway Trail, you are missing out. It really is an oasis. Although, considering the fact that the 123rd trail-head parking lot was packed, I'm thinking that it isn't much of a secret.

Anyway . . .

The girls got the bikes out, and daddy walked along with them while I ran on ahead. I didn't want to leave them too long, so I ran out for 15 minutes, then turned around and came back. I haven't run much outside yet this season, but I have been running on the dreadmill several times a week. And while I kick bootay on the DM, my outside running leaves something to be desired. But I didn't care, I just put one foot in front of the other and pressed on.

Although I was slow, I felt great. The breeze was blowing, the sun low in the sky, and my shadow stretched out long over the sage brush. In the distance, the snow-capped mountains stood. (I was so sad that I forgot my camera.) I actually turned off the iPod, and ran to the sounds of the birds, geese and frogs. The run back took 4 minutes longer, but I made it back in time to play at the park for a few minutes with the girls before taking them for frozen yogurt. It was the perfect night.

I came home, put the kids to bed, and put in for the St. George Marathon lottery - in a team, along with my brother and his girl friend. (they ran the SLC last weekend, and she came in 3rd in her division and 22nd overall)

What happens in Vegas . . .

Last weekend, I went down to Las Vegas to compete in the Las Vegas Marathon. Technically, I "only " ran the half, but 13.1 miles is still noteworthy. I actually didn't talk too much about the race prior to it, because I hadn't trained at all. If I did badly, then I just wouldn't have to mention it. And I really was expecting to do badly. Since my foot injury in August, the longest run I'd had was barely 4 miles. I knew I was going into Vegas under trained and unprepared, so I wasn't expecting to do well. Honestly, my time wasn't stellar, but I did manage to run most of it (albeit slowly), so I suppose it is worthy of a race report. Pictures are coming - they're on my camera at home, and will hopefully be up shortly.

The race started on the Las Vegas strip promptly at 6:07am with a fireworks show at Mandalay Bay (on the southern end of the strip). The route began northward up the strip, and the first 5 miles were fun. I was feeling good and strong - the feeling that I was born to run. I intentionally kept my iPod on slow songs to help me keep my pace slow. After 5 miles, the route continued northward, but we were now out of the traditional "strip". The scenery became seedy bars, strip clubs, and wedding chapels - the part of Vegas that most people don't see often. It really dropped my motivation level - running along flat streets with boring scenery wasn't nearly as exciting. I was still able to keep up running, but I was starting to struggle. By mile 7, my injured foot was hurting and I had to pee, so I stopped at a port-o-potty. Stopping was a mistake - I never did regain my stride. I struggled the last 5 miles, and alternated slogging with a brisk walk. The scenery was boring and ugly too - I was running along the back of the casinos, next to the freeway and railroad tracks. Even Eminem's Till I Collapse and Cake's I Will Survive did little to light my fire. I finished just under 3 hours, which is a pretty pitiful time - its a full 30 minutes slower than the SLC half that I ran in April. But I was happy to be done. My brother ran the full marathon, and finished around 4:30. His girlfriend who also ran with us took 14th place in the half - they both pretty much kicked my butt.

Highlights of the race:

1. All the "freaks". There were people running dressed as Elvis, men dressed as women, women dressed as brides (there was a run-through wedding chapel on the route) and even a drunk Native American man running in jeans with a beer in his hand (I'm not sure he was an actual participant). There were actually a lot of people running at the beginning with drinks in hand. The people watching couldn't be beat.

2. The fireworks at the beginning did a lot to get me pumped up and ready to run.

3. The volunteers were wonderful.

4. The field of racers was much less serious/athletic than the average race. I was much more "mid pack" than I normally am.

5. The wonderful high that came when the race was over. Its the reason I run.

Low lights of the race:

1. The shirts - I paid $95 for registration and got a crappy cotton tee. I was expecting a tech tee (that I may actually wear again) for that price.

2. The spectators - there were so few people cheering along the route (there were a few drunk people gawking at us). Even the finish line was pretty pitiful - so few people cheering and minimal crowds. I've been to much smaller races with 10 times the crowds. It was a bit anti climatic to come to the finish line without the cheer of the crowd. The announcer at the end of the race was really annoying too.

3. The route - was boring and flat, which gets tiring on the body after awhile. Hills are good, because they work different muscles. The flat route made me quads extremely tired. The route was ugly too - I guess I'm spoiled from having nice scenery along my runs.

4. The "goodies". Other big races I've run have great goodies at aid stations: gels, fruit, people with Icy Hot to rub on tired calves. There was none of that at Vegas - only water and Gatoraid (which is good too, but not as good).

Overall, it was a great experience, and I'm so glad to have been able to participate. I'm already planning my next big race, although I'll never do Vegas again. There are so many other races that are much more fun.

Always shave your legs: A cautionary tale

Its the middle of November in Utah - well past swimsuit and shorts weather. So, naturally, I've taken a break with the shaving of my legs. The only time my legs even get seen is when I'm in my running shorts - and I only wear the shorts in the privacy of my own basement. Except that today was almost 60 degrees. Anxious to take advantage of the "balmy" weather, I donned my running shorts and stepped outside for a nice long run.

The weather was perfect, and I was loving my run. I had the iPod on, and was totally in "my groove". My pace was perfect and I was feeling great. I'd gone about 1.5 when, out of no where, I realized that I was being chased down by a dog - a fast-moving border collie that resembled Doxie. Before I knew it, the snarling beast had latched its sharp teeth right into my left calf.

Immediately I stopped running and, luckily for me, the dog's owner had witnessed the whole incident. He called back the dog and asked me if I was alright. I actually didn't have any pain in my leg, but I looked down and the blood had already run down to my ankle. The entire family had been putting up Christmas lights, and they saw the entire incident. The 3 kids were crying, and mom was frantically trying to find a first-aid kit. They asked me to come inside the house to get cleaned up. Blood was running down my leg, and I was a freakin' mess.

I was actually pretty traumatized, and couldn't stop shaking. As I stood on the family's porch waiting for Mom and the first-aid kit, I kept thinking that I was so grateful we had gotten rid of Doxie a few weeks ago - I had feared she would do a similar thing. This dog even looked like Doxie.

Mom finally came with the first-aid kit, and insisted upon cleaning the wound for me. As I stood, she knelt on the ground and wiped up the blood. I was so embarrassed -my white leg was badly in need of a sharp razor and my dry skin needed some exfoliation and lotion. I think the lady was too mortified to notice the sad condition of my winter leg, but I couldn't focus on anything else. Having her touch my leg was more embarrassing than being attacked by the dog.

I finally got bandaged up and went on my way. I wasn't really thinking too clearly - I just wanted to get back to running. But I just couldn't. My heart was still racing, and I couldn't find my pace. I alternated slogging with walking back home, and decided to call it a day.

By the time I made it the 1.5 miles back home, I had completely bled through the bandage. In fact, 3 hours later the wound was still actively bleeding. I also couldn't remember the last time that I'd had a tetanus shot, so I decided to make a trip to InstaCare.

Thankfully there was no wait at InstaCare and they got me right in (that isn't always the case on a Saturday afternoon). The nurse and tech couldn't tell if I needed stitches or not, so the doctor had to come in and consult. All three of them were gathered around my leg (my sad, white, hairy leg), poking and prodding to determine if it needed stitches.

Ultimately, they decided that I had a deep puncture wound to one of the main blood vessels in my leg, but they didn't want to stitch. The doctor thought that the active bleeding was a good thing - that it would keep the wound from becoming infected as bite wounds have a tendency to do. They cleaned me up, gave me a tetanus shot, and sent me on my way with a 10 day course of antibiotics "just in case."

I went home and promptly shaved. I then put a healthy coat of sunless tanner on my leg. Although no one will probably see my legs for months, at least I feel better about myself.

And just in case anyone is wondering, my leg is ok. It is sore tonight, still bleeding a bit, and is terribly bruised, but I'm ok. It doesn't even hurt to run, so it shouldn't affect the Vegas 1/2 that I'm planning to run in a couple of weeks. I am feeling a bit conflicted though about calling animal control. I have the paperwork from the doctor that I'm supposed to send to animal control, but I haven't done it yet. I definitely don't want the dog to go after someone else, but I felt badly for the family. I also have to include the address on the form, and since I wasn't in my own neighborhood, I don't know the family's name or address - so I'd have to go by and get it. I know I should, and I plan to in the morning.

Confessions of a sugar addict

So, I stepped on the scale yesterday. I'd been avoiding it for weeks. Ever since the end of the last Biggest Loser contest, I've been "lax" about my eating - and by lax I mean that I've justified consuming copious amounts of sugar every single day. I still eat generally healthy because I do prefer healthy foods overall (other than my diet coke addiction), but sugar is my nemesis. On Friday, the girls and I made yummy chocolate chunk cashew butter cookies. They were decadent, and I ate almost the entire batch myself in three days. I'm not proud of it - but its done. I can only move forward . . .

But it did lead me to step on the scale, thinking that maybe knowledge of how much I've actually gained in the past few weeks would snap me back into reality. I was shocked to see that I've gained back 5 pounds. 5 pounds, that I'd fought to lose over the previous months. It definitely shocked me into reality, and I realized that something has to be done.

Something has happened to me. I've lost all discipline and self-control, and somehow I need to get it back. Because of my sore foot, I've gone from averaging 25 miles per week of running to averaging about 6 miles per week all last month. But I've also stopped caring about what I eat. It isn't a good combination.

My foot is feeling a bit better, and I've signed up for a 5k on Saturday to test it. Assuming it is feeling good, I'm going to register for the Las Vegas 1/2 marathon in December (Kari - are you still running that??) I'm also thinking that I should stop thinking of doing a triathlon, and actually sign up for one. The cross training would do wonders for helping my foot to heal.

I also need to get my diet back on track. I'm realistic enough to know that if I try to change everything all at once, I'm going to fail miserably. So, I'm going to try to change one thing at a time. I don't know if anyone remembers reading my blog a couple of years ago when I was doing the 21 day goals? Basically, it relies on the assumption that if you can do something consistently for 21 days, it will become a habit. Instead of going back to my normally restrictive way of eating, I'm going to change one bad habit at a time. Once I go 21 straight days of change, I'll add something else.

Today is day 1 of no sugar! And I'm not gonna lie: its been HELL. I'm craving something sweet. I'm on my 3rd diet coke, and its doing nothing to squelch the craving. I've got a headache. I can't see straight. I think I'm getting the shakes . . . (ok - I may be getting a bit dramatic, but not much) I know from past experience that the first week will be the hardest, but if I can make it until the weekend, I'll be ok (until my birthday next month - that will be a difficult one).

But, I'm posting it here for all of cyberspace to see to keep my honest. If any of you happen to see me around, don't hesitate to ask me how I'm doing. And if you catch me with a cookie-in-hand, tell me to put it down before anyone gets hurt.

And even though I'm not doing biggest loser this time around, I'm still going to do weekly Friday weigh-ins to keep me honest.

PS - I had so much fun hearing from some of my blurkers. I was suprised to see how many came from TLOL - it was such a great community "back in the day." I was also suprised to have some local blurkers (one even in the same city where I work.) Perhaps we should plan a blogger dinner where we could meet up or something . . . just a thought.

Famous last words (and more TMI)

Going along with the theme of things you never knew about running, the topic for today is another unmentionable: chafing. Unfortunately, the increased friction of body parts rubbing onto body parts plus a little moisture (ie. sweat) can cause an uncomfortable condition known as chafing. Thankfully (and for reasons not quite understood, since I've got an extra 20+ pounds of "body parts" rubbing together on me) I'm not much of a chaffer (is that even a word?) But, it has been known to happen . So, I picked up a wonderful item at Fleet Feet called Body Glide (see picture at left).

It comes just like a stick of deodorant, and you basically run it all over the places on your body that are likely to chafe. It lubes things up, and eliminates the friction that can lead to painful chafing (keep your minds outta the gutter people!)

But, like I said, I rarely have the need for my Body Glide, and it rarely gets used. So, when I set out for a 15-miler the other day, I had a passing thought that maybe I should put some on. But I was already out the door and didn't want to go back. I reminded myself that, "self, you rarely chafe anyway, so you'll be ok."

But, you see, I wasn't ok. I had made a crucial mistake when putting on my running clothes: I had put on an old sports bra. So old in fact, that it was from the pre-baby days, when I was about 30 pounds lighter and the sisters were several letters lower in the alphabet. Now why I put this particular bra on, I have no explanation. My laundry was actually caught up, and I had better options. It was dark while I was getting dressed, so maybe I can claim night blindness. Regardless, there was some extra "friction" going on that I normally don't experience during my run.

I actually completed my 15+ miles without realizing my mistake. In fact, it wasn't until I got into the shower, and the stinging water hit my breasts, not unlike thousands of tiny needles. Its was agony. Boob chafing is by far the most painful kind of chafing (well, that a woman can experience. I can imagine that there may be something worse, but luckily I don't have to parts to ever find out).

I don't think I'll be making this mistake again.

**Why the heck can't I fix this spacing??

More than you wanted to know

**warning – the following post contains graphic images and descriptions of bodily functions. If you are easily grossed-out, you may want to skip this post.

I’m going to let all my non-running readers in on a little secret: there are sometimes “unpleasant” effects of running. The casual runner may not experience them, but anyone who has pushed their body to its limits knows that it can cause potentially embarrassing gastric symptoms. From what I understand, when a runner (or any athlete for that matter) is really pushing their body, their heart is pumping hard carrying the blood to the extremities. This naturally causes the blood to be taken away from internal organs, such as the digestive tract. And when the body pulls blood away from the digestive tract, it stops digesting. The body’s response is elimination. Yep – that’s right. I’m talking about puking and pooping. (aren't you glad that you're still reading?)

When I first started running a couple of years ago, the puking part didn’t come as a surprise. I suppose I still had memories of running the mile in elementary school, and how sick it made me feel. I’ve actually only thrown up twice from running: once at the end of my very first 5k and once just last week after I failed to property keep my electrolytes balanced during a 14 miler.

But the whole pooping thing was a surprise to me – I had no idea that running could affect the bowels. Luckily, I’m a pretty regular person so it rarely is an issue for me. I also frequent a running board, and there are topics about the bowels often enough that I was aware of the potential before the situation presented itself. I do have to admit though, that there have been a couple of occasions where I’ve been blessed to find an appropriately placed restroom – but only one where I wasn't so lucky.

I’ve heard stories and I’ve even seen pictures though, so I know that I’m not alone. Ironically, the morning after the lovely and talented Tiburon forwarded me an email with this picture,




I set off for my early morning run. I only had 3 miles on the schedule for that day, and I planned to run before work – which meant getting up at 4:30 am. It was still pitch-black outside, and there was nary a soul to be seen. My run started out well, and I was running a fast pace (which I try to do at least once a week). About a mile into my run, I started feeling some rumblings from the depths of my bowels. But, I wasn’t too worried – I had less than 2 miles until home and I’d never had issues before.

As I kept running though, the situation became more urgent and I began to wonder what I could do. I was on a residential street, with only dark homes and sleeping occupants. There weren’t any available places to relieve myself until I reached home - and home was still about a mile away. I started running faster so that I would get home more quickly, which only made the situation worse. I kept thinking about the picture from the email only the day before, and perhaps it was psychosomatic, but I started to worry what would happen IF? Real people don't crap themselves do they? Isn't that something reserved for the ultra-tough, elite runners who don't want to risk their first-place finish?

So, I did the only thing I could think of at the moment: I ran behind a large pine tree in an open space area, dropped my pants, and took care of business. After I was finished, I stepped a few feet to my left, and drug my bum over the grass. Then, I pulled up my pants and finished my run. It’s not something that I’m proud of, and I can only hope that the sprinklers washed things away before the poor landscape guys had to mow. But I did what I had to.

So there you have it: my most embarrassing running-related moment. It actually took me almost a month to get the courage to post it, so please be kind. And if you feel so obliged to share something with me that would make me feel better, I’d much appreciate it.

I'm a girl on a mission

I ran 4.16 miles yesterday non-stop. Our whole family was home from work and daycare, sick, recovering from the stomach flu. While the girls and daddy took a nap, I went for a run outside. The weather was sunny and cool – perfect running weather. I didn’t run it fast (it took me 45 minutes), but I felt strong and alive – and I didn’t have to walk once. Not too bad either, considering I’ve got a head cold and was still recovering from stomach flu.

My running hasn’t been going well lately - I’ve felt a bit like I’ve been faltering. After running the SLC half, I was waiting to see if I won the St George lottery before deciding my summer running schedule. I really don’t run well aimlessly – I need a plan and something to train for. Something big too – 5k races, and even 1/2s aren’t much of a challenge anymore. I need a marathon to train for. Well, the lottery results were in last Friday, and I didn’t make it into St George this year. I was so sure that I’d get in again, that I hadn’t even considered what to do instead. And I really wanted to train for a fall marathon. I did have a few options to consider: Park City, Top of Utah, Marine Corps, or Vegas were all on my list. But none of them were jumping out at me.

Park City is at the end of August and just a little too early in the season to be considered a fall marathon – and the route looks a bit difficult (if I’m gonna run a marathon, I want it to be as easy as possible). From the website, the route looks like it goes up a mountain. I’m not that good of a runner yet.

Top of Utah looks like a great route (mostly downhill at a 1-2% grade), running from Hardware Ranch down into Logan City. But, since it’s the week after LOTOJA, I’d have to run it alone – which would be ok, I guess. It’s always more fun to have a friend with me at the start line.

Marine Corps (considering I could even get into that one) would be so awesome – run around the landmarks of DC – and my dad was a Marine. But, that one would be expensive since I’d have to buy plane tickets (I would have somewhere to stay though, as I have family in the DC area).

Vegas looks like a nice flat route, which actually would be kind of boring – is it strange that I actually prefer hills? I like running up and down. But, the elevation of Vegas would give me a boost – I’m sure I’d do well with the lower elevation. The race is in December, which would mean doing some long runs in the cold of November – that doesn’t sound too fun. Vegas also has one big drawback – it’s in VEGAS. And I HATE Vegas – it’s the epitome of everything that is wasteful and sinful in the world, and I don’t enjoy it there.

So, after much “humming and hawing,” I made a decision: I registered for Top of Utah. It feels good to have a plan. I’m starting out with a much higher level of fitness this year, so I have high hopes. I’m hoping to shave an entire hour off of my time from last year.

And, with views like these, how could it not be great:

A haunting and a few other things

The ghost in my office has been really active lately. I wonder why? The building I work in is about 50 years old, and its ugly. Really ugly. The floor and walls are still covered in the circa 1962 orange that I'm sure was here when the offices were created. It doesn't seem like the type of place that would be haunted. But I suppose the ghost doesn't care. He's comfortable here.

I'm sitting here at my desk trying to concentrate, but there is so much racket going on in the office upstairs - the sound of file drawers being slammed shut and stuff being slid across the floor. It sounds like someone is rearranging furniture. I suppose it would't be too strange, except for the fact that the office upstairs is vacant. The tenants moved out last summer. I even went up to check, just in case I missed that someone had moved in. But there's absolutely no furniture there.

I probably sound crazy - but I swear that I'm not. In fact, most of my coworkers have had more than one "strange" occurance in this building. And when the building flooded a few months ago, the renovation crew got so spooked one night that they high-tailed it outta here, and refused to work after dark. So, if I'm crazy then they are all too.

I know this is a totally random blog post. I've been pretty much MIA in the blog-o-sphere this week. I was really sick last weekend - fever of 104.8 and pretty much confined to my bed. I'm feeling better, but I just don't have my energy back yet. And work has been kicking my butt - all this warm weather has developers chomping at the bit to get their projects going.

The funny thing is, I've got about 3 or 4 things swimming around in my head that I'd love to post, but I don't have the time (or energy) to form a coherent thought. So I suppose y'all will have to settle for this random post until I can put together something descent to say. But before I go, I do want to brag that I ran my fastest mile ever last night - somewhere in the neighborhood of an 8 minute mile (which is completely contrary to my lack of energy). Not super speedy by any stretch, but for me its great. Smokin' fast. Think I can run my 1/2 marathon in under 2 next month?

You too can be a runner

I’ve gotten a lot of comments in my blog lately about my running. I get the feeling from some of my wonderful readers that they think running takes super-human strength. Well – I can personally attest that anyone can be a runner. If I can do it, you certainly can too. Here’s my response to some of those comments:

From Carrie:

I can't believe how much you run!! I'm jealous.... I'm a bad "jogger". ha ha I'm a champ on my treadmill though. ha ha, again. :o)

I actually do most of my running on the treadmill (or dreadmill as I affectionately refer to it). In the summer I am able to spend more time running outside, but right now I’m pretty much 100% running indoors.

From Janae:

I totally admire you for being a runner. I've always wanted to run. I'd love to do a half marathon one day, but I'm afraid I'm getting too old.

You can do it! And you’re not too old. I ran my first marathon at 32 – actually just a week before my 33rd birthday. I didn’t win any medals (in fact, I barely finished 2 minutes before the cutoff). And I spent ½ the day running with a grandmother who was running her first marathon. But let me tell you, there is no better feeling than running (or limping) across the finish line of your first marathon. (You can read my story and view my pictures here if you’re interested)

From Julia:

I think it is crazy that you can do everything you do and still have energy to run. I need to get back into actual physical activities.

Actually, running gives me more energy. I know that may sound completely crazy. I don’t run as fast/hard as I can every time. I maintain a steady and consistent “jog”. I feel healthier, more energetic, and I sleep better than I ever have. It also helps me cope with stress. There is no better way to get over a bad day than to “pound” it out with my feet.

I’m not kidding when I say that anyone can be a runner! I was one of those kids in school who brought a doctor’s note to get out of having to run the mile. I was asthmatic and had bad knees – full of excuses. But then I got knee surgery and medicine that controls my asthma, and suddenly I could do physical activity. I learned to snow ski and water ski (at the ripe old age of 18). I started backpacking, hiking, mountain biking, and doing the elliptical at the gym. But I was always afraid to run.

Then I had babies – 2 of them in 2 years. And babies were hard on my body. Despite puking every single day with both pregnancies, I managed to gain 65 pounds with the first, and 75 with the second (luckily I did lose a lot of that). Not pretty. I was so gross and disgusted with myself that something had to be done. Being that I don’t have much time every day, I needed to find an exercise that would burn the maximum amount of calories in the least amount of time, and it also needed to be something that I could fit into my schedule. Running fit both requirements. So, I googled “beginning running plan” and found the Couch to 5k in 9 weeks. I was hooked. I started the next week, and I’ve never looked back.

I’m finally, after a year, feeling like I can legitimately call myself a runner. I can run for 3 miles with little effort. I feel strong and healthy. My body has changed as well – I haven’t lost as much weight as I’d initially hoped (weight loss is mostly about diet I’ve learned), but my legs and butt are fit and toned. Most of all, I’ve found something that is for ME and no one else. Can you tell I love it?So, if anyone is interested, here’s a few pointers on how to get started:

1. Go to the running store and get fitted for running shoes. You will pay more, but its worth every penny.
2. Start out slow, and then go slower. The biggest problem with beginning runners is that they try to go out too hard too fast. Run at the same speed you walk. And don’t be afraid to take walking breaks – just don’t keep walking. Once you can breathe again, start running – slowly.
3. Wear the proper attire. While you’re at the running store, pick up a good bra (you and the sisters will thank me for it). And no cotton – cotton is rotton. If you’re running outside, dress so that you are a bit chilly at the beginning. And, if you're a bit on the larger side, wear something that adequately covers so that you're not hanging out and jiggling too much.
4. Once you feel strong enough, enter a race. It will inspire you to train, and it’s a lot of fun!
5. Keep a log. I am such a data geek, and there is nothing better than going back and seeing how many miles I logged in a week or month.

And if anyone local is looking for a running partner, I’d love to run with you! I’m starting a training program today to run the Salt Lake City ½ marathon in April.

Revised workout schedule

I've been so faithful with my workouts lately. I have such a great schedule: after the girls get to bed, I head to the basment to the treadmill. I turn the DVR on, and run. I feel like I'm multi-tasking by keeping up with all the good shows while getting my exercise. The problem is, my workouts are becoming more and more monotanous, and I'm finding them more difficult to get through. Instead of feeling like I'm getting in better shape, my legs feel like lead and I'm finding it more difficult to get run.

I'm wondering if maybe I'm not overtraining a bit. Maybe my body wasn't meant to run every day. So, I think I'm going to revise my schedule a bit. Here's what I'm going to try:

Monday - 60 minute run
Tues - weight train/cross train (swim, bike, walk)
Wed - 60 minute run
Thurs - swim
Friday - 60 minute run
Sat - long run
Sun - rest

Oh - and after Thursday, I'm back on a sugar fast. Wish me luck. I'd like to lose 20 more pounds, and be in shape to run a 1/2 marathon in April.

Chasing tail

I woke up bright and early this morning to participate in the above listed race. I met my mom and sister at a local historic farm/county park for the race, which was a benefit for an animal rescue group. It was a gorgeous fall morning, and quite chilly. I wasn't expecting it to be so cold, and I was not dressed appropriately. I am sorry too that I forgot my camera, because it truly was scenic. The race was mostly on wooded trails around the farm, and one of the rivers from a near-by canyon runs right through the course. Most of the trees were in the height of their autumn colors, and it was so beautiful.

Unfortunately I wasn't feeling very well. The cold air made it difficult to breathe, and I never felt like I caught my breath. I think I took my asthma inhaler 4 times during the race, and it never made a difference. And I had this strange stitch in my side. Needless to say, I ran the slowest 5k ever - over 5 minutes slower than my PR. It was pretty frustrating - I just freakin' ran a marathon, and this morning I stuggled to finish a 5k. I'm going to chalk it up to asthma problems and figure that everyone has a bad day.

Anyway - here's some pics of my crazy kids. Daddy is at the football game today, and they're bouncing off of the walls, which you can't tell by the pictures at all (note sarcasm).





Oh - and I found out some good news this morning: my brother and his kids are moving out here from Cincinnati the weekend of Thanksgiving! Whoo hoo.

Marathon photos - finally!

(Apology in advance for anyone with a slow connection) We made it to St George on Thursday afternoon. This is the view from our balcony - it was so beautiful down there and the weather was perfect.
We played around on the balcony and let the girls get some of their energy out, while we waited for the rest of our group to arrive.
I like this picture of G. She's so pretty.
Bryn and Grandma

I was grateful that Bryn could pull herself away from her busy baby schedule and join us. That girl had a phone to her ear all weekend. (sometimes 2) My sweet girls and me - I love this pic.
The first morning there, we headed out to Denny's for breakfast. There was a wait, and while we were sitting there, the girls became obsessed with the game full of stuffed animals. You know the one - they have them by the front door of every Denny's in America. Its a big container of stuffed animals with the mechanical arm you have to maneuver and grab an animal. My girls were so enthralled by it. There was a man playing the game, and he was really good. On his first try, he got a cute stuffed dog - and he gave it to Bryn. She was super excited. Then, he got a purple cat for G. They were in love. He was such a nice man.
My little cheerleaders with their "tats". Too cute.

Bryn loved her "tat"

The runners wanted to carb-load the night before the race, but it was also my sister's birthday - and she had her heart set on steak that night. So, we all sacrificed and went to Ruby River. (where I still ate tons of bread and a giant sweet potato, so I got my fill of carbs). We'd only had our meals for a few minutes, when the fire alarm went off. At first the servers told us to stay in our seats, but after a minute they evacuated the restaurant. It was really cold outside, and after a few minutes, the manager came back and told us we could go back inside. But the alarm was still going off, and I was worried about it damaging my kids hearing. So, a couple people went back inside to box up the food while the rest of us waited outside. As we were leaving, the fire department finally pulled up. My sister got her pic with a cute fireman. We teased her the rest of the weekend that they set off the fire alarm lighting the birthday candles on her cake.
Me before the race. I look tired - not a good way to feel before a marathon!
This is me coming up to the finish line. I look even more tired.
Me, my brother, and HL after the race with our finisher's medals on.
My battle wound - an extremely sore and swollen ankle. I'm still not quite sure what I did to it, but its feeling better after a week of RICE, so I suppose I'm ok! I actually ran 2 very slow miles yesterday. I feel like a slug not running this week, but I want to make sure I'm recovered. I feel great though!

y

Marathon Mom

I've put off blogging about my marathon, because I wanted to include some pictures - and perhaps a video of me crossing the finish line. But the pictures and video are still on the camera at home. I want to write about it before I forget all the details. So, here's the story, and the pics are coming soon.

Saturday October 2, 2007:
The day began early, at 3:30 am. I was so tired, as the girls were sick and didn't sleep well the night before. I was also sharing a room with them (and a bed with G). Needless to say, I was super tired. Matt, HL, and I were out the door by 4-ish. We made a quick stop at a c-store for their pre-run coffee ritual, and then made it to the bus pick-up a little after 4am. We got right on the bus, and after a few minutes we were on our way. It was still pitch black outside, and the ride seemed to take forever. The race began way up in the top of a canyon, and the road was steep. With each passing minute, I got more and more anxious. I couldn't believe I'd be running back. The drive alone seemed to take forever.

We finally reached the start line. It was really cold up there - I'm sure in the 30s. Luckily, there were bonfires where all the runners could huddle around to keep warm. I was grateful to be one of the fatter runners, because I think I was able to handle the cold much better than most.

I always get nervous before a race, and this one was no exception. I think I made 2 trips to the port-o-potties and one out to the bushes before people started lining up at the start line. My plan was to follow the 5:30 pace team - my goal was just to finish under 6 hours, so I went towards the back of the pack to find the group. I decided to make one more pit-stop before the race started, so I ran to the outhouses. Unfortunately, all the Advil I'd stuck in the pocket of my shorts fell onto the floor. There's no 10 second rule in an outhouse - that stuff was unfortunately gone.

I came out of the potty to find that most of the runners had already started, and I had no idea where the pace team was. So, I just started running. It was rather anti-climatic. It felt good to finally be moving my stiff, cold legs, and I was struggling to keep my pace slow. I just wanted to run, but I knew that I needed to save myself. As the sun came up, the sky was gorgeous, and it felt so good to be alive. The first few miles flew by, and I was amazed at how good I felt. At mile 6, there was a time clock - it read exactly 65 minutes. I found out later that it took me 7 minutes to cross the start line - so I had run 6 miles in less than an hour, which is really fast for me. The first 7 miles were all a gradual downhill, and they just flew by. I didn't stop running once - I even ran through all the aid stations. I also made a friend, although I never asked her name. She was from Arizona, had 4 grandchildren, and was running her 1st marathon also. I enjoyed talking to her, but she stopped at the aid station at Mile 7, and I kept going.

The Mile 7 aid station was in a valley called Veyo, and from there, the road made a steep ascent - for the next 4 miles. I finally had to walk a bit, as some of the hills were very steep. Pretty much everyone around me was walking too, so I didn't worry too much. For the next 4 miles, I alternated running with walking (although still mostly running), but I knew I needed to save my legs. Approaching mile 11, as I was going up the last of the steep hills, the 5:30 pace team passed me. I tried to keep them in my sights, but I felt myself losing steam. I even popped a couple more shot blocks, but never caught back up.

I knew I just had to keep the 6:00 pace team behind me.

I was still feeling good at mile 13, but was starting to feel some wear on my body. The prospect of running 13 more seemed very daunting. But the clock at the Mile 13 aid station read 2:45 (minus 7 minutes of course), and knowing that most people run a negative split (when the second half is faster than the 1st) I thought 5:30 was a real possibility.

The route started going down hill. At about Mile 14, my grandma friend passed me as I'd slowed to down a couple more shot blocks. But I flew by her on the steep downhill portion from Miles 15-16. I was very excited to get to 16, because there is a big spot there where spectators can view and my family had talked about being there. But they weren't there, and it lowered my spirts a bit. I was really starting to feel fatigue too. I started giving myself mini goals: next road sign, next rock formation, next aid station, etc. When I'd meet that goal, I'd press myself to meet the next goal. I was still mostly running, but I'd slowed a lot. 10 more miles seemed so far.

About Mile 17, I came up to an old man who seemed to be struggling. He was coughing a lot, and I asked him if he was ok. He told me that he just had a tickle in his throat and he'd be ok. This was his 16th time running St George, and he was going to be fine. I asked him about the huge hill I could see ahead, and asked why I thought the race was all downhill. He laughed and said that the hill wasn't as steep as it looked. (it looked quite formidable to me) Then he was off.

The hill ended up being Mile 19, and that is where I started to really struggle. My knee was giving me problems, and I could only run a few yards before the pain would force me to walk. I got passed by an ambulance taking some poor injured/sick runner, and I thought how nice it sounded to be in the back being taken care of. But I forced myself to keep going. I stopped at the next aid station for some Icy Hot on my knee, and it helped quite a bit. My grandma friend finally passed me here for the last time - I never saw her again.

I also started having some stomach problems, and had terrible cramping. I was never so happy to see anything as I was to see the port-o-potty at mile 21. I dashed inside, and spent a bit too long in there. The rest did help me though, and I felt my energy renewed a bit.

The next 3-4 miles were "gently rolling" hills, but they felt relentless to me. I was really struggling, and the only thing that kept me going was the thought of the finisher's medal - I wanted one. At one point, a lady at the aid station told me "its all downhill from here" and I thought that I'd rather do anything than run downhill. By now, I was pretty much doing a "power walk" with a bit of running. My legs were thrashed, and all I could think about was sitting down. I kept up my "mini goals" only now they were much shorter.

Mile 23 finally took us into town. There were a lot more spectators, and it helped my energy level quite a bit. At one point, a handicapped girl was clapping and cheering. She told me that she was everyone's personal cheerleader, and that she'd been in the same spot all day. She really touched me, and I struggled to keep the tears back. I knew I didn't have energy to run and cry. Another volunteer asked if I was ok - I probably looked like I was having a seizure or something.

At Mile 24 (2 more miles to go) I asked a volunteer how many more blocks to go. He told me 8 (which I later found was more like 18) but that renewed my energy. By this time, it felt like a death march, and I could only run about 10 steps before I had to walk. At Mile 25, they had icy towels, and they felt so good. I noticed that many of the runners around me had friends and family running along side them. One man was leaning on his wife so much that she was practically carrying him.

I finally saw the balloons of the finish line, and was able to work up a jog. I started looking for my family, and when I finally saw them I started bawling. I had to stop running, because I couldn't run and cry. It was too much effort. I finally managed to run across the finish line. The clock said 6:05, but I knew I'd started a few minutes late. I just hoped my final time would be under 6. But I felt so good: I had finished a MARATHON!

I got an ice cream sandwich at the finish line, and went to look for someone I knew. I found my family, and my girls wanted to be held. I cuddled them both, as we walked around looking for everyone. Matt and HL finally showed up. He had really struggled, and only beat me by 20 minutes. HL had finished at 4:13, and waited a long time for us.

I found the booth to have my chip scanned. The printout said: 5:58:07. I had beat my goal - by less than 2 minutes - but I had beat my goal!! We decided to get the girls back to the condo, as they were sick, hungry, and tired. We stopped by McD's on the way back, and I got the biggest diet coke. It tasted heavenly.

I went back, took an ice bath, a shower, and a nap. Then I ate whatever I wanted. And other than a swollen and sore ankle, my soreness has been tolerable. Today is Wednesday, and my legs feel pretty normal. I think I may try running tonight. I'm already planning my next race too. I think I may be addicted to this.

My own fat march

Ok - I'm not the biggest TV watcher there is - especially cheesy reality shows. But I do DVR some of my favorites and watch them while I'm on the dreadmill (it really helps to pass the time). A few weeks ago, I'd made it through all my cache of shows (summer break I guess) so I was channel surfing. I came across Fat March - I'm not sure why the show caught my eye, but it did. The show is about 12 overweight people who have to walk from Boston to Washington DC - a distance of over 500 miles. Every one of these people was at least 100 pounds overweight at the beginning of the march. Talk about motivation for me while I was running. I immediately set the DVR to record all new episodes.

Last night was the season finale. On one of the last days of the march, they had to walk a marathon - 26.2 miles. Every one of them finished the entire distance, and the fastest woman did it in just over 7 hours. This is a woman who was at least 100 pounds overweight, and she walked a marathon in 7 hours.

What am I worried about?

I have 6 hours to complete the marathon, but I do plan on running a good majority of it. And it really is mostly downhill - see the lovely elevation map:

I'm going to be fine. It was comforting to hear that Rachel (Operation Rosebud) hadn't run more than 14.something prior to hers. I've still yet to run more than 13 miles. This past Saturday I tried to run 15, but I still felt really sick and lethargic. At one point I had to sprint to an appropriately placed restroom, as it was becomming difficult to run with my cheeks squeezed together. I only ended up doing 7 miles - but I did those 7 miles without stopping (unless I count the pit stop and my warm-up/warm-down) and I ran them fairly fast (for me) in just under an hour and a half. I'm not entirely sure, since I've stopped worrying about my time. Right now I just focus on mileage - no matter how long it takes.

I am getting anxious, but I think I'll be just fine. I have been working hard (although I make it sound like I've been a slacker) and I know I'll be proud of myself.

My feet don't feel so fleet

I'm signed up to run a 1/2 marathon next weekend, and I'm getting a bit worried. I've been having some problems with my left foot lately. I'd doesn't bother me very much - just after I've been running outside for a few miles. It started happening after I got my new Asics - I'd been ok in my cheap Nike shoes that I buy from Famous Footwear. But all I've read on cool*runnings has led me to believe that I needed to be fitted for running shoes - so to Fleet Feet I went.

I found out that I need neutral shoes, and that I have high arches. So, I was fitted with orthodics as well. I tried running in the orthodics. I went twice outside and twice on the dreadmill for a total of about 15 miles. Those dang orthodics never felt good - my feet ached. I took them back to the store, but the problems never went away.

After about 2-3 miles, I start getting a pain in the ball of my foot by my toes. It feels like there is a large pebble or marble in my shoe. The pain then radiates into my toes, and they start to feel numb. I have noticed that if I change my gait and try to run more on the outside of my foot that the pain lessens.

Luckily, my foot feels great the rest of the time. Only when I wear one pair of shoes (that I love because they're so cute - see pic below) do I have any pain at all. And I don't wear them much, so it isn't a big deal.

a href="http://photobucket.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v365/chutch1/Picture.jpg" border="0" alt="Photo Sharing and Video Hosting at Photobucket"></a>

Oh - and isn't the carpet in my office lovely? LOL

Anyway - I've been thinking that my pain if from my shoes. I never thought that it could be anything else. But yesterday, I was surfing the forums at my favorite site, cool*runnings, and I found a thread about Morton's Neuroma.

A google search turned up this:

A neuroma is a noncancerous (benign) growth of nerve tissue that can develop in various parts of your body. Morton's neuroma occurs in a nerve in your foot, often between your third and fourth toes. The condition isn't a true tumor, but instead involves a thickening of the tissue around one of the digital nerves leading to your toes. Morton's neuroma causes a sharp, burning pain in the ball of your foot. Your toes also may sting, burn or feel numb if you have Morton's neuroma.

Also called plantar neuroma or intermetatarsal neuroma, Morton's neuroma may occur in response to irritation, injury or pressure - such as from wearing tightfitting shoes. But Morton's neuroma may also occur for unknown reasons.

Treatments for Morton's neuroma commonly involve changing footwear, resting your foot, and using arch supports or pads to help take pressure off the area. In some cases, your doctor may recommend anti-inflammatory drugs, a cortisone injection or even surgery if you have Morton's neuroma

I'm now convinced that is what I have. I don't want to go to the doctor though, because I know the first thing I'll have to do is stop running. And I don't want to stop. But I do want to run without pain. So, I suppose I don't know what to do.

If anyone has advice/experience with a neuroma, please advise. I'd love to hear stories!

My first 10k

Its been almost a full week since I ran my first 10k, and I'm only now finding time to write about it. And I really should be working, but I'm finding a real lack of motivation right now. So, here's the story:

My brother and I signed up to run the Deseret News 10k together. The race was held on Tuesday July 24, which is Pioneer Day - the day that Brigham Young walked into the Salt Lake Valley and declared "this is the place", and thus began the habitation of this great state.

The race began at 6 am, in attempt to combat the heat. But even at 6 am it wasn't very cool outside. It began in an area called Research Park, and the route started out downhill and ran downtown. The last 2 miles or so were along the parade route, and the race ended up in Liberty Park.

I was a bit nervous. I've run several 5ks, but nothing longer. A 10k is 6.2 miles, so I knew it would be a bit of a test for me. I still haven't been running that long.

We lined up about mid-pack, and waited for the start. My brother and I chatted with a veteran runner. She was so nice, and told us how she and her hubby are running a marathon in every state. She has run St George, and it was fun to hear her words of wisdom. She was interested in our iPod arm bands, and I thought how funny it was that we each were experts in something.

Finally the race started, and I was grateful the race was chip timed because it took almost a minute to cross the start line. My brother was gone in the first few seconds, and I never saw him again. Immediately the race started downhill, and I found myself struggling to hold my pace. The force of running downhill combined with the excitement of the race made me want to push it. But I knew that I needed to save something for the end.

The first 2 miles of the race went very quick. I had forgotten my heart rate monitor, which also has a timer and I regretted it. I really think I set a PR for the first 2 miles. I would love to know my time. After about 2 miles, the course leveled off a bit and even went uphill for about 1/4 a mile. I started to feel a bit thirsty and I hoped for an aid station.

I didn't pass the first aid station until after mile 3. By then I was very thirsty. I drank a water and gatorade, and walked about a block to let my stomach settle.

At this point, the course turned southward onto the parade route. Again I found myself running downhill. I probably ran this part too quickly, but it was so exciting to have the spectators along the route. Some of them were uninterested in us runners. But others had signs, were shouting words of encouragement, and some were even giving hi-fives. At the bottom of the hill, I had to walk a couple of blocks, and of course that is where I saw a friend. He shouted "hi" to me, and I wished I looked more like a runner and less like a tired walker at that point. I started running again.

While I was walking, I got passed by a man who appeared to be in his mid 70s. He was wearing a shirt that said "running behind Opa". I thought he was really cool. Unfortunately, I don't remember if or when I passed him. I'm not sure which of us finished first.

The race course turned again with about ? mile to go. I had kind of been leapfrogging with a man and a girl. We kept shouting encouragement to each other, and noting that this seemed like the longest part of the race. I hadn't taken anything to refuel, and I felt tired. Finally I saw the finish line. I really wanted to sprint to the finish, but all I could manage was a strong jog. I felt good though. There were several vomit puddles at the finish line, and I was grateful that none were mine.

I crossed at around 1:16-ish. Results weren't published until the next day, but my official chip time was 1:15:07. Not a fast time by any means, but I was very pleased with myself. It was such a fun race and I'm definitely running it again next year.

5k Race Report

I ran in a local 5k on Saturday. I work as a City Planner in an adjacent town, and it was their celebration. As you can see from the picture, my mom participated with me. We got to the race only a few minutes before it started - its nice when the race starts and finishes from the same location. I woke up that morning coughing and wheezing - there was a bad wild fire in the mountains outside my house, and I think I'm allergic to the smoke. I actually took my daughter's breathing treatments before the race so I could breathe.

The race began at 7am, and it was already hot. We lined up in the road, where someone had painted "start" onto the asphalt. It was a smallish race - less than 300 people - and not as well organzied as the other races I've run. We crossed several intersections, and only one or 2 in the entire race were there police there to help with traffic. In fact, there were times that cars actually drove right next to me. I was also suprised that the first part of the race was a steady incline, as I was expecting a flat race. I actually would have prefered more hills, as I think I would have run it better. But, I ran the first mile in just over 10 minutes, which is a fairly good pace. I was having a difficult time pacing myself because I'd forgotten my iPod, and I use that to pace myself. I still felt like I was doing fairly well.

Then, at mile 2, the course turned eastward - right into the blazing sun. It was hot, and I faded fast. And a young girl (maybe 8 or 9) who was runing with her dad right in front of me, fell and skinned her knees badly. She was so tough though, she got right up and kept running. I'm not sure how quickly I ran my other 2 splits in, because I never saw the mile 2 marker. I was so thirsty, but there were no aid stations to be found. Finally, at what I'm thinking must have been around 2 1/2 miles, they had an aid station. That water tasted so good.

I tried to pick up the pace a bit, but the heat was really taking its toll. About this time, I really thought I was going to puke on the side of the road. But, I was so close, and I willed myself not to. Finally I rounded the corner to the finish line, which was on the other side of the building where we started (we ran a loop around downtown). Seeing the finish line helped me get my second wind, and at least I finished strong. But my time was 34:30, which is really quite pathetic and discouraging.

We did have fun the rest of the day. Ben and the girls met me at the finish line, and we headed over to a breakfast in the park. The girls played at the park and had fun at the petting zoo, until we had to get Gracelin dressed and onto her float for the parade.

I think I'm back

Friday night, after we got the girls bathed and in PJs, I had DH drive me 5 miles away from home. He dropped me off, and I had to run back. I had him take me straight west from our house, to the foothills of the Oquirrh (pronounced Oak-er) Mountains.

It was a gorgeous run. The temperature was in the 60s, and the setting sun was at my back. My shadow cast out long in front of me. The first mile was uphill, but after that the run was downhill. I passed about 20 deer, and had the most amazing view of the mountains around the valley. The best part of the run was how I felt - strong and alive. It was the feeling that I was born to run. I didn't try to push myself - I just ran at a steady pace (except for the big downhills, which always cause me to run faster). I stepped on my porch at 59:58, just 2 seconds shy of a full hour. For me, that's a descent training pace.

Saturday night, DH and I had a night to ourselves. His mom took our kids, so we decided to go for a hike. It was an impromptu hike, so we were both in flip-flops. But, we chose Donut Falls. Its a perfect short hike - only 1.5 round-trip. There is a slight incline, but its a fairly flat hike that goes in and out of dense lodgepole pine and quaking aspen forests. The falls themselves are incredible. The water falls into a hole in the rock, and comes out on the other side. It is incredibly beautiful, and was a wonderful evening. And I didn't even get out of breath on the hike. I wanted to run!

I feel reconnected and rejuvenated. I think my boredom is coming from treadmill (aka dreadmill) running. I need to spend more time outside.