Woo Hoo!
Excited. Nervous. Anxious.
Prepared. Focused.
Ready.
Let's go!
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Wednesday Winners: PINK Stories
"I don't have a specific person but when I ran the Race for the Cure in 2008 I was overwhelmed by the number of Breast Cancer survivors running.. So often people find reasons not to do things...reasons that have no real merit but are seaded in self-doubt. Then there are people who chose to keep going to "Do" instead of trying. Who live life to the fullest and say "Cancer you will not take my health." Those people inspire me."
Her words resonated with me, because there are so many people (not just women) who are breast cancer survivors, and they run. This week's Wednesday Winners post is dedicated to the cause, and to those beautiful people who have fought to overcome, or who have lost their battle, and someone else continues their legacy.
As we welcome October tomorrow, and you see a movie that tells one woman's story, wear the message that shows your commitment to the fight against breast cancer, or plan to run an event either in October or upcoming months, remember all those who've traveled their journey.....
I invite each of you to remember to "take care of your girls" and run an extra mile for a friend, whether you know that person or not, because WE ALL FINISH TOGETHER.
My Thankful Three
Today, I am thankful for:
- Strong people who aren't willing to give in, and their stories that inspire us
- A sweet friend, Fayth, who was a teenager when she learned her mom had breast cancer and had only weeks to live. I often think of this young lady and her strength during the most painful time in her life
- Good health...
Robin
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Speedwork Tuesday
We noticed it the minute we opened the front door to head out this morning: cooler temps/less humidity Woo Hoo!!
Great run this morning! Speedwork Tuesday had me pushing my limits outside:
3 x 400s:
2:11 flat
2:32 incline
2:48 flat, but running out of steam
2.8 miles total @ 31:15 = 11:09 pace Yay! I'll take that. I think the diminished humidity put some pep in my step!
And Hubby rode his bike alongside..... always nice. :)
Great run this morning! Speedwork Tuesday had me pushing my limits outside:
3 x 400s:
2:11 flat
2:32 incline
2:48 flat, but running out of steam
2.8 miles total @ 31:15 = 11:09 pace Yay! I'll take that. I think the diminished humidity put some pep in my step!
And Hubby rode his bike alongside..... always nice. :)
I am thankful for the nicer weather this morning. Thanks, Mother Nature!
Happy running, friends....
Robin
Fear Factor: What's Yours?
I recently asked you what you fear most when you run. Here were the choices:
- Angry Animals
- Creepy Strangers
- Getting Hit by a Vehicle
- Getting Lost
- The Dark
- Falling
A great regional answer worth noting: fear of alligators! Thanks, Kyle Momma Runs! As a fellow Floridian, I completely hear ya'!
Personally, I fear angry animals as much as those creepy strangers! Snakes and not-so-cute dogs, in particular, freak me out! You should see my vertical jump when a snake crosses my path..... hysterical!
But in spite of our fears, we still hit the streets, trails, tracks, and even the treadmills to do what we do best: run, and run, and run....
My Thankful Three
Today, I am thankful for:
- Not finding too many angry animals when I run
- More new friends who are taking time to keep up w/ my journey (shout-out to Atlanta!) :)
- A little less humidity this week...
Run on, fearless friends...
Robin
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Long Run Sunday: On the Countdown to 10K Race Day!
With two weeks to go to my first 10K, today was my longest Long Run Sunday to date, with 6 miles scheduled before I begin a 'taper schedule' which frankly, sounds funny, given my short distances anyway!
But 6 miles we did. Notice I said "we." Yes, I had a day of firsts today:
Morgan showed me her best 'marathon shuffle' and kindly allowed me to set the pace as we hit the streets a little after 7 this morning. The Hubby even documented for us w/ a few pics. Thanks, Honey! :) Originally scheduled for 6 miles, with an adjustment to 4 due to other commitments, we were ready to set out on our run. But at the last minute, we were able to reinstate the 6 miles.....
So with 6 in front of us and humidity pushing a gazillion %, we took off, the gazelle and the turtle. Hilarious! We had a great time, chatted it up the entire way, and found ourselves back at the beginning before we knew it. Wow, time does go faster when you run w/ someone else!
Thanks, CAUTION: Redhead Running for breaking me in today. I'm ready to push my limits a little further, and look forward to more Sunday runs with you. :)
I also thought a lot about our friends who were running races this weekend, and checked in to see how things went. Sounds like they ROCKED their races in spite of weather and illness. Way to go, gals!
We've also added a new friend to our community: Thanks, Emma! Great job with the Track Shack blog and all the social media goodies you've been working on.
But 6 miles we did. Notice I said "we." Yes, I had a day of firsts today:
- Ran my longest continued distance to date (w/ some walking thrown in for good measure): 6.7
- Ran with another runner (have never done this before!)
- Talked the entire time we ran (also one of those things I wonder HOW people do!)
Morgan showed me her best 'marathon shuffle' and kindly allowed me to set the pace as we hit the streets a little after 7 this morning. The Hubby even documented for us w/ a few pics. Thanks, Honey! :) Originally scheduled for 6 miles, with an adjustment to 4 due to other commitments, we were ready to set out on our run. But at the last minute, we were able to reinstate the 6 miles.....
So with 6 in front of us and humidity pushing a gazillion %, we took off, the gazelle and the turtle. Hilarious! We had a great time, chatted it up the entire way, and found ourselves back at the beginning before we knew it. Wow, time does go faster when you run w/ someone else!
Thanks, CAUTION: Redhead Running for breaking me in today. I'm ready to push my limits a little further, and look forward to more Sunday runs with you. :)
I also thought a lot about our friends who were running races this weekend, and checked in to see how things went. Sounds like they ROCKED their races in spite of weather and illness. Way to go, gals!
We've also added a new friend to our community: Thanks, Emma! Great job with the Track Shack blog and all the social media goodies you've been working on.
My Thankful Three
Today, I am thankful for:
- Running friends willing to share a hug and expertise :)
- My Hubby with camera in hand, always...thank you!
- A day w/ a 4 yr-old who taught me a thing or two about football: priceless
Happy running friends... see you Tuesday,
Robin
Friday, September 25, 2009
Good Luck this Weekend, Running Friends... All Around the World!
Special shout-outs to:
Fran Wants to be a Healthy Girl, who's running the Fortis Singelloop Utrech, her 10K race, at 12:30 pm local time, 6:30 am EST, Sunday, in The Netherlands,
and
No Need for Speed here in Orlando, who will be participating in the Expedition Everest Challenge Saturday evening with her husband. They have a race and several challenge events to follow. Sounds like fun!
Go Girls! We'll be cheering for you!! Have fun! :)
And remember... we ALL finish TOGETHER!
My Thankful Three
Today, I am thankful for:
A paycheck to pay for my new running sneaks
Early-morning running (wish I would've gotten out there sooner.. cooler than the afternoons!)
Friends to cheer on as they lace up their sneaks! Yay!!!
Have a great weekend everybody. Hubby and I will be riding coasters with family both Saturday and Sunday, and then I'll be doing a little running with CAUTION: Redhead Running early Sunday morning as we prepare for our upcoming races on the same day, October 11th: her 26.2 in Chicago and my 6.2 @ Disney ... 15 days away!
Happy running, friends...
Robin
New Kicks to Hit the Street
A big thanks to Andres and Jeff at Track Shack for their help yesterday!
Got new kicks..... Yay! Saucony ProGrid Echelons
to break in before the upcoming 10K.
Love the extra cushioning.
Tried them out this morning for what was scheduled to be
my quick Friday maintenance walk, and became an early morning walk/run.
Nice!
Almost made 5:30 am acceptable...
almost!
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Wednesday Winners: Nephews are AWESOME!
Today I'd like to highlight a 'future runner' - a little guy whose mom has registered him for his first kids' run next month. He's already an awesome soccer player and loves to run, so I think he'll be great.
But more importantly, he's the coolest 8 year old I know, and I just adore him. He makes me laugh and cry at the same time, (pride swells my heart...closest thing to 'mom love' that I can even imagine.. helped him arrive in this world). My nephew inspires me in all that he does. He recently introduced me to Mac 'n Cheese colored crayons, a new-fangled soccer ball, and his (new) love of reading... Oh my gosh! Can you beat that????
So today is dedicated to "B" - my favorite little 8-yr-old and all that he represents in this world. I love you!!
My Thankful Three
Today, I am thankful for:
- B, his siblings and cousin
- Finding time early this morning to catch up on reading blogs.. yay!
- Decent sleep - hard to get when hot flashes consume your nights!!
Happy running, friends...
Robin
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Weird Blog Stuff Today
Anyone else having any problems with Twitter updates on their blog or pics of those that follow?
Seems my Twitter updates went completely XXX rated today (not my tweets) and pics disappearaed.
If you happened to catch any of the nasty tweet updates on my blog, I am so sorry! I pulled them as soon as I saw them.
Issues in the blogosphere??
Robin
Seems my Twitter updates went completely XXX rated today (not my tweets) and pics disappearaed.
If you happened to catch any of the nasty tweet updates on my blog, I am so sorry! I pulled them as soon as I saw them.
Issues in the blogosphere??
Robin
Woo Hoo! New Running Friends & Running in the Dark
So, I faced my fear of the dark again and hit the streets at 5:20 am... turns out, there really are lots of other runners out that early! Today was "Speedwork Tuesday," and let me just say: running on the street, in the humidity is a heck of a lot tougher than running on that darn treadmill, even if it IS set to a 3% incline!
That said, I'm retiring the treadmill in lieu of early morning runs on the street - without my ipod & with my mace and phone. "Safety first." :)
My Thankful Three
Today, I am thankful for:
- Finding out we have a massage therapist in our office bldg every Tuesday - score! Best $$ I've spent so far this week! (Next expenditure: new kicks.. yes!)
- Lots of lights in our downtown area - Thanks, City of Orlando, for looking out for its residents
- New friends who are reading/following my crazy adventures... thank you, thank you, thank you!!!!!! (saved the best for last) :)
Happy running friends...
Robin
Sunday, September 20, 2009
A Sunday Run - Nevermind the Turtles: Watch Out for All the Other Critters!
Wow! Since I typically run around a lake, running around turtles is not that uncommon, but what happens when you set out on your morning run, and come face to face, um, make that ankle-to-ankle, foot-to-face with all sorts of other critters!
Today was one of those days! With a 5-miler to do and a lake that measures 1.1 miles on its most exterior pathway, you can see that a few laps were in order (after completing the first mile through downtown). As I set out on this early morning jaunt, I quickly found myself dodging and leaping over our Florida lizards. Fellow FL runners, you KNOW what I'm talking about! Our lizards are nothing short of dinosaur proportions and have no concerns with lazing out over the sidewalks, regardless of the occasional pedestrian, dog, or duck that might happen by. That's because these little suckers are so big, you'd dare not step on them! (And it's gross when you do! Ugh!!)
In addition to being big, our Florida lizards are also, um...shall we say... active. (No pictures here, folks.. use your imagination, and if you are a fellow Floridian, you are LYBO right now, because you KNOW what I'm talking about, you've seen them.... Anyway, as a result, we have gazillions of baby lizards: little, teeny-weeny guys that are soooo cute, but so quick, too! They trip me up all the time, as I attempt to step over them, but they've already moved. grrrr!
So as I'm getting my footing around the mini-dinosaurs and their quick-moving spawn, I find myself also needing to dodge fido. Now, fido is on a leash mind you, but this yappy little guy decides he's going to run with me and gets all tangled in my ankles.... darn! Cute as he is, I really don't need any extra help w/ staying on my feet, thank you! As I'm attempting to get away from the little yapper, I'm thinking, "Oh, no, sir and ma'am, you don't need to move over, share the sidewalk, OR reign your wayward dogs' leashes in at all... I'll just run through the grass, dodge carefully, and hope for the best." (I'm finding those little yapper dogs are unpredictable and have zero compunction about attacking your ankles! And their owners, even worse manners!) Insert *kick* here..... (and the truth is: Hubby and I LOVE animals!!.. it's their owners...well, anyway)
That little rant brings me to the best part of my doggy diatribe: After I pass the strolling couple and their playful pets, the song ends and a new one is about to begin on my ipod when I hear the Mr. say, "Oh, Joey, did you get her??" You could have knocked me over!!! In my head I vacillated between saying, "Nice! or Almost!" as I looked back and waved. But in the end, I took the high road and kept on trucking along... never letting on that I heard that snarky comment. (Hope a bird poops on your car, sir!)
The squirrels are last on my list of critter chaos, though I must say, they typically stay in the trees, and I get a good laugh watching them as they charge around the trunks of the beautiful old oak trees, all the while chirping at another squirrel buddy. But on this day, as is sometimes the case, these little guys were out of the trees, and crossing paths with me left and right, leaving me to dodge them - not unlike the lizard dinos!
Surprisingly, no ducks or swans today, during my lakeside 5-miler, but as you can see, lots of other critters. It was clear that 'all God's children' were out enjoying a lazy day at Lake Eola!
One caveat to this critter story: no alligators! Yes, they are an issue for FL runners!
In spite of my dodging and weaving, today's run was productive. Since it was Long Run Sunday, the goal was distance, though I was aiming for a certain time, too. Okay, so I reached one out of two today! I did complete my 5 miles, but instead of 65 minutes (13:00 pace), it took 71:56 minutes (a 14:37 pace, according to Daily Mile). Since I haven't run in 5 days (sick,yuck!), I'm okay with that.
Had to deal with a cranky left knee that pretty much gave out in mile 4, a problem that persists. An old Navy injury that rears its ugly little head about mile 4 these days. It used to be 2 miles (which is why I wasn't much of a runner), so I'm making progress. Um, note to left knee: we have SIX miles to run in three weeks - no time for pain, kinks, or locking up!! At one point, as I came down on my left foot, my knee completely gave out and a tree caught me from going down. I remember thinking, "Hey, great! I get to blog about my first official wipe-out!" But fortunately, the tree was kind and I didn't hit the ground.
I did, however, have to employ plenty of walking today... bummer! But no worries - three weeks of training to go, and feeling better after last week's latest round of 'sick,' so I'm good to go! Look for my weekly mileage goals this week... I'm rockin' on!
Today was one of those days! With a 5-miler to do and a lake that measures 1.1 miles on its most exterior pathway, you can see that a few laps were in order (after completing the first mile through downtown). As I set out on this early morning jaunt, I quickly found myself dodging and leaping over our Florida lizards. Fellow FL runners, you KNOW what I'm talking about! Our lizards are nothing short of dinosaur proportions and have no concerns with lazing out over the sidewalks, regardless of the occasional pedestrian, dog, or duck that might happen by. That's because these little suckers are so big, you'd dare not step on them! (And it's gross when you do! Ugh!!)
In addition to being big, our Florida lizards are also, um...shall we say... active. (No pictures here, folks.. use your imagination, and if you are a fellow Floridian, you are LYBO right now, because you KNOW what I'm talking about, you've seen them.... Anyway, as a result, we have gazillions of baby lizards: little, teeny-weeny guys that are soooo cute, but so quick, too! They trip me up all the time, as I attempt to step over them, but they've already moved. grrrr!
So as I'm getting my footing around the mini-dinosaurs and their quick-moving spawn, I find myself also needing to dodge fido. Now, fido is on a leash mind you, but this yappy little guy decides he's going to run with me and gets all tangled in my ankles.... darn! Cute as he is, I really don't need any extra help w/ staying on my feet, thank you! As I'm attempting to get away from the little yapper, I'm thinking, "Oh, no, sir and ma'am, you don't need to move over, share the sidewalk, OR reign your wayward dogs' leashes in at all... I'll just run through the grass, dodge carefully, and hope for the best." (I'm finding those little yapper dogs are unpredictable and have zero compunction about attacking your ankles! And their owners, even worse manners!) Insert *kick* here..... (and the truth is: Hubby and I LOVE animals!!.. it's their owners...well, anyway)
That little rant brings me to the best part of my doggy diatribe: After I pass the strolling couple and their playful pets, the song ends and a new one is about to begin on my ipod when I hear the Mr. say, "Oh, Joey, did you get her??" You could have knocked me over!!! In my head I vacillated between saying, "Nice! or Almost!" as I looked back and waved. But in the end, I took the high road and kept on trucking along... never letting on that I heard that snarky comment. (Hope a bird poops on your car, sir!)
The squirrels are last on my list of critter chaos, though I must say, they typically stay in the trees, and I get a good laugh watching them as they charge around the trunks of the beautiful old oak trees, all the while chirping at another squirrel buddy. But on this day, as is sometimes the case, these little guys were out of the trees, and crossing paths with me left and right, leaving me to dodge them - not unlike the lizard dinos!
Surprisingly, no ducks or swans today, during my lakeside 5-miler, but as you can see, lots of other critters. It was clear that 'all God's children' were out enjoying a lazy day at Lake Eola!
One caveat to this critter story: no alligators! Yes, they are an issue for FL runners!
In spite of my dodging and weaving, today's run was productive. Since it was Long Run Sunday, the goal was distance, though I was aiming for a certain time, too. Okay, so I reached one out of two today! I did complete my 5 miles, but instead of 65 minutes (13:00 pace), it took 71:56 minutes (a 14:37 pace, according to Daily Mile). Since I haven't run in 5 days (sick,yuck!), I'm okay with that.
Had to deal with a cranky left knee that pretty much gave out in mile 4, a problem that persists. An old Navy injury that rears its ugly little head about mile 4 these days. It used to be 2 miles (which is why I wasn't much of a runner), so I'm making progress. Um, note to left knee: we have SIX miles to run in three weeks - no time for pain, kinks, or locking up!! At one point, as I came down on my left foot, my knee completely gave out and a tree caught me from going down. I remember thinking, "Hey, great! I get to blog about my first official wipe-out!" But fortunately, the tree was kind and I didn't hit the ground.
I did, however, have to employ plenty of walking today... bummer! But no worries - three weeks of training to go, and feeling better after last week's latest round of 'sick,' so I'm good to go! Look for my weekly mileage goals this week... I'm rockin' on!
My Thankful Three
Today, I am thankful for:
- Ben Gay and Ibuprofen - lots of both!
- Hubby coming home from weekend w/ parents.. missed him so much!
- A nice breeze this morning, to break up the oppressive humidity
Happy running, friends!
Robin
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Need new socks?
Before you take off to check out the giveaway, have you shared your thoughts on my earlier post yet?
You know you're a runner when....
If you have, thank you, and if you haven't yet, I'd love to hear your thoughts on this one!
Also, look for my own upcoming reviews on 'gear for your girls' - sports bras for C/D runners who require lots of anti-gravitational support. :)
Happy running,
Robin
You Know You're a Runner When....
"You know you're a runner when you trade in your favorite body lotion for Ben Gay, and you're okay with that, wearing it as a badge of honor."
All day, I kept thinking about all the ways we are characterized by what we do, think, say, eat, etc.... as runners.
But other people's ideas are soooo much more fun than hearing my own roll around inside my head.
What would you say???
You know you're a runner when....
Come on guys...let's see how many reasons we can come up with!
Friday, September 18, 2009
Friday Funnies: Race Day Outtakes and Bloopers
It's Friday, and time for a good laugh. What's your fave race day outtake or blooper?
I shared my 5K race experiences last weekend, but what I didn't share was what happened AFTER the race.....
After reading on several bloggie friends' posts that ice baths are a regular part of their training, and then finding myself swelling quickly after the 5K followed by four more training miles, I decided to bite the proverbial bullet and give it a try. (I LOATHE cold, unless I'm having a hot flash!) Hubby, being the awesome guy he is, trekked over to our local grocery store with me for two large bags of ice, and we headed toward home.
As I was filling the tub and trying to wrap my brain around what I was about to do (It's good for you, Rob. It'll reduce swelling. It's what 'real' runners do.).....the phone rang. My mom was calling for some techie advice (Hubby's a bit of a computer geek - in a good way), so I was left to my own devices. (This is where it gets ridiculous!)
As the water began to fill the tub, I was rethinking this entire venture... What the heck am I doing?? Oh, yes, I remember... see the previous paragraph. :) Next, I dumped the large bags of ice in, stripped down, and proceeded to sit on the side of the tub... pondering, cursing, looking for the strength to do what I knew I needed to do....
One foot in...OMG! Another foot in....OMG, OMG, OMG!!!! TOO COLD, and OUT they came! This went on for a few more minutes, with me eventually adjusting the water temp to a little warmer - "melt some of the ice, warm the water slightly" was my thought process. All the while, I'm sitting safely on the side of the tub, feet on the floor.
As the water warmed slightly, I decided to try again, with my hands placed precariously on either side of the tub: one foot in (still freezing cold, but NEED to do this), and just as I began to put the other foot in... SPLASH!! I FELL into that FREEZING cold water like a giant truck splashing into a lake! Friends, there are not enough OMGs to describe what I felt at that moment. I'm not sure what numbed first - my body parts or my brain, but I remember realizing that there was a pause on the phone as Hubby was talking with Mom. I learned later that he heard the splash, and figured, "Well, she'll work it out." Aaahhh... that's my hubby - always having confidence in my resourcefulness. :)
So I suffered through what was the most excruciating 10 minutes of my post-run, running life (so far); yep, that's all I could handle. And with that, the hot water was turned on full-blast and I proceeded to soak in a lovely, WARM, bath for the next 20 minutes. Yes! Thank you, temperature gods!!!
It was a few minutes later that Hubby came in to check on me, saw the puddle of water on the bathroom floor (and a few remaining ice cubes.....damn them, mocking me!), and smiled as he asked so sweetly, "Everything okay in here?"
One step closer to no longer being a newbie, I suppose..... :)
So, what's your favorite race day outtake or blooper? Do share!
I shared my 5K race experiences last weekend, but what I didn't share was what happened AFTER the race.....
As I was filling the tub and trying to wrap my brain around what I was about to do (It's good for you, Rob. It'll reduce swelling. It's what 'real' runners do.).....the phone rang. My mom was calling for some techie advice (Hubby's a bit of a computer geek - in a good way), so I was left to my own devices. (This is where it gets ridiculous!)
As the water began to fill the tub, I was rethinking this entire venture... What the heck am I doing?? Oh, yes, I remember... see the previous paragraph. :) Next, I dumped the large bags of ice in, stripped down, and proceeded to sit on the side of the tub... pondering, cursing, looking for the strength to do what I knew I needed to do....
One foot in...OMG! Another foot in....OMG, OMG, OMG!!!! TOO COLD, and OUT they came! This went on for a few more minutes, with me eventually adjusting the water temp to a little warmer - "melt some of the ice, warm the water slightly" was my thought process. All the while, I'm sitting safely on the side of the tub, feet on the floor.
As the water warmed slightly, I decided to try again, with my hands placed precariously on either side of the tub: one foot in (still freezing cold, but NEED to do this), and just as I began to put the other foot in... SPLASH!! I FELL into that FREEZING cold water like a giant truck splashing into a lake! Friends, there are not enough OMGs to describe what I felt at that moment. I'm not sure what numbed first - my body parts or my brain, but I remember realizing that there was a pause on the phone as Hubby was talking with Mom. I learned later that he heard the splash, and figured, "Well, she'll work it out." Aaahhh... that's my hubby - always having confidence in my resourcefulness. :)
So I suffered through what was the most excruciating 10 minutes of my post-run, running life (so far); yep, that's all I could handle. And with that, the hot water was turned on full-blast and I proceeded to soak in a lovely, WARM, bath for the next 20 minutes. Yes! Thank you, temperature gods!!!
It was a few minutes later that Hubby came in to check on me, saw the puddle of water on the bathroom floor (and a few remaining ice cubes.....damn them, mocking me!), and smiled as he asked so sweetly, "Everything okay in here?"
One step closer to no longer being a newbie, I suppose..... :)
So, what's your favorite race day outtake or blooper? Do share!
My Thankful Three
Today, I am thankful for:
Warm baths
Hot showers
The willingness to laugh at all the stupid things that happen to me :)
Happy running, friends... Have a great weekend. I'm nursing another round of 'sick' and haven't run since Monday. Complete bummer. Planning a 5-miler for Sunday....
Robin
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Newbie No More?
When is a newbie no longer a newbie?
Recently, 5 Miles 2 Empty had some thoughts on newbies to share with me (a 'newbie tangent' she called it..LOL), "You are hardly a newbie anymore," she said, and continued ..... "I know I'm not a newbie anymore because I don't get nervous before a race (unless it's a new distance) and I don't have to hit the porta-potty 17 gazillion times before the race begins." She used more colorful language, in true Amanda style :), but you get the idea. Well, this got me to thinking...
When does a newbie really give up that identity,
and put on her big girl pants?
Even though I began running last November, I found myself slacking after the first three 5Ks (Jan - Feb), and a new injury. By late February, life happened, and I took the next five months off; my kicks didn't see any action until July (just two months ago), and I didn't begin 'training' until August (as some of you may remember from that post), so in spite of a few road races under my belt, I've still been feeling like a newbie runner.
So the question remains: Does 'newbiedom' expire with the # of races completed, the lengh of those races, an attitude adjustment, or just time passing??? Or, could it be all of these?? And does one "reacquire" (is this even a word?) newbiedom (for sure my own word!) when a longer distance race is the goal? Hmmm.....
Personally, as a lifelong learner (of all sorts of things), I agree with Amanda, and think that experiencing a new (longer) race does make us a newbie for that event, and then once we've tackled it, we get to adjust our identity again (I'm looking forward to being a 10K finisher!). :) In this way, we continue to learn and grow as runners, always having new goals, new nervousness, and new fun!
What do you think?
- When is a newbie no longer a newbie?
- When did you shed your newbie identity?
- If you haven't shed your newbie identity yet, what *event* will help you do so?
- If you have shed it, does anything ever make you feel like a newbie again?
I am thankful today for so many more than just three things.....Have a wonderful day, friends!Robin
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
What's Your Biggest Running Fear?
What frightens you most about running?
- Take the survey (right margin) and see how your fear stacks up with others
- Look for a follow-up post next week.....
Wednesday Winners: Inspiration Close to Home
A few weeks ago, I began dedicating Wednesdays to 'winners' in our sport, those folks who inspire us with their dedication, commitment, and perseverance. They may or may not have won their running race, but they have, in some way, won their race in life. They didn't give up, in spite of the odds. This, to me, is what it's about. Running toward your own finish line - whatever and whenever that may be.
I'm always interested in statistics: trends and patterns, and the WHY that comes with them. Interestingly I've noticed that the Wed post gets the fewest comments each week. Why is that? I have my own thoughts on this (mostly that my lack of consistency the past two weeks hasn't established the post as a weekly item yet!).
What I don't think is that we don't care about inspiration. In fact, quite the contrary. What I've noticed since I began writing this blog nearly six weeks ago, is that we seem to be inspired by each other's stories. How cool is that? We share, we support, we cajole, we push, we cry, we laugh, we entertain,
we inspire each other.
Last Sunday was a perfect example. By that afternoon, I knew that Tall Mom on the Run had rocked her (hilly) 5K, Fat Girl to Fit Girl had totally triumphed in her Tri, Fran Wants to be a Healthy Girl aced her 10K w/ a terrific PR, and 5 Miles 2 Empty had a great 'mom day' as her Little Running Buddy scored big in his 1K (rock on, Little Running Buddy!). And while not running races that weekend, I did learn that
CAUTION: Redhead Running was struggling w/ pains that were slowing down her marathon training (and she needed a little 'mom' encouragement), Busy Running Mama was trying out 3 new pairs of kicks (so envious!) in anticipation of her own upcoming 1/2 in December, and Confessions of a (not as) Fat Runner ran the 'Lead Legs Classic' as she set out for a morning run.
As I caught up on everyone's weekend, I was so inspired by all that everyone had accomplished! While our 'odds' may not be as great as Bob Marshall or Cliff Young (or maybe they are), we each have our own things we overcome to run every day, whether it's health issues, work and family commitments, our own uncertainties, etc... but we do overcome them and we run.
And like six degrees of separation, our blogs (and our lives) intersect and often overlap - some more tightly than others, some more loosely, but we are all connected - sharing stories, supporting one another, and being inspired by what we each (individually) and all (collectively) accomplish.
When you visit someone's blog, do you find yourself checking out his or her blogroll? Do you look to see who they follow and who you share followings with? I do. In this way, we find new folks to meet and follow. We find people that we connect with - physically, personally, spiritually, or all of these! No matter how we connect, though - we are inspired by one another. And I am inspired by each of you. You are the Wednesday Winners in my world. :)
My Thankful Three
Today, I am thankful for:
- The inspiration that each of you continually shares with the rest of us
- A venue to share my thoughts and struggles w/ like-minded folks
- The Hubby (just because....)
Happy running, friends....
Robin
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Another Race, More Lessons Learned.....
Yesterday, I completed my fourth 5K since I began running last November, and along the way, learned a few new lessons.....Lesson #1: The first lesson was pretty straightforward, and looking back, a no-brainer to be sure! Here it is, plain and simple:
Always know exactly where the starting line is.
How's that for simple? Now, let's break this down:
For those of you who are experienced runners, you are laughing and saying, "Well of course!"
But for newbie running friends preparing for their first race, or those friends who are reading and thinking about taking up running, here's the protocol: When you go to a race, you are asked to line up according to the pace you expect to run, so I always line up near the the back because I run with the turtles and maintain a pace over 10:00, usually 11:30 - 12:30 when I'm 'racing' (and I use that term loosely!)
But it wasn't that simple yesterday. At least not to those who weren't jockeying for position. Normally, the starting line (at least, in the races I've attended so far) is well marked with not only a strip on the ground, but also flags, an overhead archway, a race clock, etc... but yesterday, that was not the case. And I didn't know this until the race had begun and we were all shuffling toward the starting point. With only a strip on the ground, several of us who were waaayyyy back there found ourselves saying, "Hey, was that the official starting point?" as we stepped on the strip, set our watches and took off. Thankfully, our timing chip recorded what clearly many of us missed: our official starting time!
Notice the clock time and chip time... with a difference between the two, depending on your starting position in a race. Also notice the ages of these top finishers - OMG!!
Note to self: walk over and physically see, step on, check, etc.. the starting line before the race begins!
Lesson #2: This lesson, while less tangible, turned out to be my "a-ha" moment of the day:
"PR" means Personal Record in our running world, but can it also mean "Personal Relationship?"
Yesterday, it did.
Here's why....
As I prepared for the Autumn Rock 'n Run 5K, I did all the things I normally do the morning of a race, but without the usual anxiety, expectations, or nervousness. My focus is on the upcoming 10K, and this was my practice run. Was I selling this race short? Treating it like a step-child? Not caring enough to be stressing? I don't think so, but you know what? I was showing up. Turns out, this relaxed attitude paid off in a big way for me:
I learned that 'PR' can mean so much more than just 'Personal Record.'
You see, as the race began, I found myself thinking about my new bloggie running buddies and your advice, training tips, and upcoming events, as well as Mr. Young (see Wed, Sept 9, 09 post) and his unwavering commitment, and how I was feeling as I steadily moved forward (we turtles move pretty slowly). Before I knew it, I was settled in with a handful of other runners, who became my unofficial running partners for this race:
- Mr. Running Mom who pushed the running stroller as his youngster happily rode along - the pink & brown bag in the bottom told me Mrs. Running Mom was somewhere else in the race, probably up with the gazelles(!).
- Next there was Ms. Boogying Gal in all black who shifted from center to left and back to center several times... she and I stayed nearly side-by-side the entire time.
- Then there was Ms. Tall Running Gal who wore her really cool (brown!) race t-shirt this day (which indicated to me that she might be a newbie - as we newbies have to run a few races before we learn that the awesome cotton race t-shirt is usually too hot to wear in these FL races). I might have been totally wrong about this assumption.....
We all cruised along - making our way through the neighborhood streets, listening to our own music and the occasional band or dj set up on the route. But a little over 2 miles in, things started to change, folks were starting to slow down a bit, walk more than we had, and the tempo changed....
This is when my 'a-ha' moment hit me. I remembered what Tall Mom on the Run said to me recently: "We all finish together." And I thought to myself, "Yes, WE do."
And with that, I looked at my watch and saw that if I took off now, I could finish this race in sub-32:00 (I know, turtle pace, but faster than my previous races), OR I could pay it forward, honoring Tall Mom on the Run's gracious motivation to me (I wonder if the gal being tall had anything to do with my decision? Ha Ha). I chose the latter, looked over to Ms. Tall Running Gal and said, "Come on. We can do this. Let's run together." And even though she had her earbuds in and couldn't really hear me (I'm assuming again!), we did.
We ran that final mile together. We pushed each other. We walked when the other needed to walk. WE ran together. We even exchanged names while we ran. (Ms. TRG = Deanne)
A few minutes later, we crossed the finish line together - tired & sweaty, but together.... Yay us!!!!! And as you can see in the pics, Ms. Boogying Gal finished right along with us. With that, my newest lesson was learned: PR means so much more than just a Personal Record.
It was a great day... new lessons learned, and BONUS: a new friend! :) A few hours later, I received a message on my BlackBerry: Deanne has sent you a friend request on Facebook, with a message attached: Thanks for helping me finish today. OMG!!! I was so surprised and excited: My new race buddy found me online, and took the time to send a message. Wow! To be clear, We helped each other finish. BTW - our official 'chip time' was 36:07, a little less than the clock time you see here. Avg pace: 11:47 - respectable for newbies!
Yes, Tall Mom on the Run, we do all finish together. Thank you all for running with me yesterday, and helping me understand the true meaning of community and PR..... you have made me a stronger runner mentally, and more determined to be a stronger runner physically. Yesterday was OUR finish.... :)
My Thankful Three
Today, I am thankful for:
- The willingness to be open-minded and flexible
- The support and advice of friends w/ more experience
- Moments in time that become something more... (I'm glad to know you, Deanne!)
- (Bonus): My Hubby who rolls out of bed at 5 am on a Saturday w/ me to head out and be my chief cheerleader, photog, and videographer (thanx baby, I love you!)
Happy running, friends!
Robin
P.S. - Still felt good after the race and came home to run 4 more (training) miles to finish out my week. Goal: 15 miles Actual: 17 miles
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Why?
"Why do you run," the woman asked.
"Because I can. Because I want to," the other replied, without hesitation.
"Is it fun? Is it competition?" the first woman pressed on, quizzical look upon her face.
"It is not fun. But it IS competition. With myself," the other answered, thoughtfully.
And so it goes.... those who run know their reasons. Those who do not run continue to wonder why runners do what we do, and oftentimes, wish they could find that place that pushes us to go one more lap, one more mile, one more hill..... OR, to take that first step that is the toughest.....
It's been a quiet week in my bloggie world, but a very active week in my training world, a quiet time of reflection and attention to purpose..... :)
Happy running, friends,
Robin
"Because I can. Because I want to," the other replied, without hesitation.
"Is it fun? Is it competition?" the first woman pressed on, quizzical look upon her face.
"It is not fun. But it IS competition. With myself," the other answered, thoughtfully.
And so it goes.... those who run know their reasons. Those who do not run continue to wonder why runners do what we do, and oftentimes, wish they could find that place that pushes us to go one more lap, one more mile, one more hill..... OR, to take that first step that is the toughest.....
It's been a quiet week in my bloggie world, but a very active week in my training world, a quiet time of reflection and attention to purpose..... :)
My Thankful Three
Today, I am thankful for:
- Taking the first step last November
- Finding that place that pushes me further, and wanting to run
- The courage to work through running in the dark
Happy running, friends,
Robin
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
A Wednesday Winner: Inspiration - Late, but Definitely Worth a Read!
Two weeks ago, I intended for Wednesdays to be 'Wednesday Winners,' dedicated to a post highlighting inspirational stories about folks who overcame great odds to run, but somehow, I just couldn't seem to get my schedule moving along smoothly....(thankfully, my feet HAVE been moving, even if my fingers haven't!)In spite of this writing interruption, I'd like to invite you to read a really cool story about a man who not only defied the odds, but introduced a training technique now used by many. Cliff Young, a lifelong farmer, made his debut at 61 in an Australian endurance race.
Here's his story.....
So the next time you think you... just... can't... go... on..., think of Mr. Young, and his dedication to our sport and humanity...
My Thankful Three
Today, I am thankful for:
- Stories like Mr. Young's that continue to inspire
- The flexibility of blog friends and visitors, and your willingness to read on, in spite of this week's late Wed post. [ t/y! :) ]
- Really comfy, breathable running hats that keep my fair-skinned scalp sunburn-free in the FL sunshine
Robin
Saturday, September 5, 2009
On Resting, Recharging, and Recognizing Appropriate Training Practices
Does a 4-hour nap count as two days' worth of naps?? No, really. I'm just asking...
I was thinking about something I wrote in yesterday's post - that my 40-minute nonstop run that morning was a new personal best for me. I realized that wasn't a completely accurate statement, because the three 5Ks that I PR'd just under 40 minutes were all nonstop, but I was in 'competition mode' (only w/ myself mind you, but competition nonetheless!), so my goal was speed & less time, whereas yesterday's 40-minute milestone was about endurance: less emphasis on speed & more focus on time. Yesterday's accomplishment was a 40-minute personal endurance best.
I believe, especially as a new runner, it's important to clarify this difference, and to properly identify one's training goals. As Stephen Covey says, "Start with the end in mind."
Speedwork days (Tues):
I was thinking about something I wrote in yesterday's post - that my 40-minute nonstop run that morning was a new personal best for me. I realized that wasn't a completely accurate statement, because the three 5Ks that I PR'd just under 40 minutes were all nonstop, but I was in 'competition mode' (only w/ myself mind you, but competition nonetheless!), so my goal was speed & less time, whereas yesterday's 40-minute milestone was about endurance: less emphasis on speed & more focus on time. Yesterday's accomplishment was a 40-minute personal endurance best.
I believe, especially as a new runner, it's important to clarify this difference, and to properly identify one's training goals. As Stephen Covey says, "Start with the end in mind."
The end result: Complete my first 10K with a PR under 85 minutes (shooting for 75!).
To attain that result, here are my training goals for the final five weeks before the Disney 10K:
Speedwork days (Tues):
- 30-minute workouts
- Increase intervals from current 2 minutes to 4 minutes
- Increase fast intervals from 11:00 - 12:00 pace to 10:00 - 11:00 pace
Easy run days (Thurs):
- 45-minute workouts
- Nonstop to increase endurance
- Increase my pace & thereby increase my distance in allotted time, while
- Maintaining 'easy pace' (working on the technical HRZ stuff!)
- Increase distance by 10% weekly
- 9/6: 4 miles
- 9/13: 4.3 miles (5 K on Sat, 9/12; I will add 1.2 miles)
- 9/20: 4.6 miles
- 9/27: 5 miles
- 10/4: 5.5 miles
- 10/11: Race Day
- Utilize 1 min (max) walk breaks as needed (as little as possible)
- Maintain 12:30 - 14:00 pace for three weeks
- Increase pace to 11:30 - 13:00 in weeks four and five (9/27 & 10/4)
I'm not sure how technically correct this schedule is, but it feels intuitively right, and it's based on training programs, tips, and guidelines I've been reading in recent months, including those I found in an article in Competitor magazine, Southeast region, Sept 09 edition, today.
"Running Past 40" (I often forget that I'm in this category!), an article highlighting the physical changes in our bodies as we age, discusses the training changes needed to maintain lifelong, healthy running, specifically rest and adjusting workouts to maximize recovery.
Because I am a 'young' 42, and only started running 10 months ago (which qualifies me as a newbie, I'm pretty sure!), I often forget that the demands I place on my body will be different than those of 20-something and 30-something runners. And as a diabetic, I'm even more aware that I have to pay close attention to my body's reactions to running, and adjust accordingly.
These lessons are tough for me; I want to 'run and jump and play like the other kids!' I'm how old??? I know 42 (almost 43) is young in the big picture, but I also know that I'm not a competitive athlete & have no desire to be one, started a little late, and must acknowledge the limitations that come w/ health issues....
Reflection:
How tuned in to your body are you? Do you respect the rest days as much as the training days? Do you acknowledge the importance of and need for those rest days? Will your training habits allow you to be a lifelong runner - in mind, body, and spirit?
Listen to your body today. Be kind to it. Respect it. Love it.
My Thankful Three
Today I am thankful for:
- Restful Saturdays, with no commitments
- A sweet grandmother who makes me laugh
- My dear husband who insists on carrying all the grocery bags :)
Happy running, friends......
Robin
Friday, September 4, 2009
Running in the Mist... An 'Easy Run' Day Starts the Long Weekend
After an exhausting Thursday evening, I chose to push my easy run to this morning, which turned out to be an excellent strategy. Feeling rested and ready, my feet hit the floor at the first sounds of my alarm clock (o'dark thirty), more specifically: 4:55 am. (I figured out this would be 10:55 am your time, Fran Wants to be a Healthy Girl.) Whew! In my world, this still qualifies as the middle of the night, but no need to whine or waste time! Just get up and go... which is exactly what I did.
Since it was still dark and I am an urban dweller, I started out on the treadmill with a 7-minute warm-up walk. Okay, feeling good... let's pick up the pace, but just a little. It is, after all, an 'easy day' and RW says not to overdo it, even if enthusiasm gets the best of you. Trying to follow the training recommendations, I kept it slow and steady. For 40 minutes! Yay! This is a new personal best for me: 40 minutes, nonstop. Okay, experienced running buddies - quit laughing so loudly! Now you know why I'm shying away from a run with you, Morgan! It would be a walk in the park for you, literally, I'm afraid. LOL
With the incline set to the usual 1.5%, I ran an average pace of 13:40 ish, and my knees held up until the last 10 minutes. Then, they began to ache. But, hey, I've got a lot farther to run, so suck it up and keep moving! I continued and even took another 1.1 mile lap outside, around the lake, where I found the tall buildings shrouded in an early morning mist, fog, something... it was beautiful! Great run, and and I didn't even wear the fun colors today! :)
I did, however, focus on my gait, my posture, and my breathing. One advantage to using the treadmill is a mirror on one side and a tinted glass window directly in front of me that functions as a mirror. Between the two, I can monitor my run and make immediate adjustments, feeling how the changes make differences in how my body feels - from shoulders being more relaxed to feet and knees hurting less (or not at all) if I land differently. Silver lining, right?
So before most people had coffee today, I moved one workout closer to my 10K. Rock on!
Oh, one more fun fact for today: my ultra cool new pink socks and shirt arrived late this afternoon, the ones I ordered from Pearl Izumi during Tall Mom on the Run's recent run for the 200, which was lots of fun, by the way. :) fyi - Their women's tops seem to run a little big. One size smaller would have fit much better. But the colors match my turtle blog, so I'm happy, and the socks are just adorable - so girlie - so unlike me! Tomorrow is my rest day... Hubby and I are heading over to Sports Authority for fishing gear (him), and then to Track Shack (me), with lunch at my fave vegan restaurant, Ethos Vegan Kitchen. I love Saturdays! And Sunday, I'll lace up and head outside for my 'long run' day. Yes, CAUTION: Redhead Running, you might want to check the ditches... LOL! And yes, we need to plan to meet up soon. :) This morning I glanced at the gazelles passing by on my lake lap, thinking maybe one of them was you... I'm sure those chicks thought I was some sort of a weirdo stalker!!
My Thankful Three
Today, I am thankful for:
- A hubby who doesn't judge when I eat something a little off the charts :)
- Weight loss in conjunction with my training: a definite bonus!
- 3-day weekends to rest, recharge, train without time restraints, and just chill out...YES!
Robin
Thursday, September 3, 2009
To Skivvy or Not to Skivvy: (Apparently) That is THE Question....
So, fellow running/blogging friends, I had to laugh this evening as I was looking through Runner's World for a nutrition article that I was referencing in my food blog, and ran across a hilarious post on Mark Remy's "RW Daily" blog on a subject we've been ummm... exploring lately. Can you believe the timing, and his comments? It seems that I'm not the only one pondering this subject. But this time - it's in reverse! I'm wondering: should I write and try to convince him to go back, return to the sans skivvy world?? Ha! Ha! What were the odds he'd be discussing this very topic, but in reverse??
Well, in spite of his reversal (at least part of the time), I must admit - I've purchased three more pairs of real running shorts since we began this discussion - to experiment, of course - different brands and different colors. It's nice to break out of the black and navy blue syndrome for a change... the 'happy colors' seem to make running more fun! And 5 Miles 2 Empty's skivvy primer a few days ago was priceless. (Thanks for that, especially the part about... well, nevermind... you know what I mean....) All of that said, I'm loving my new-found freedom... it's boundless, or would that be bindless??? btw - no spandex for this girl, not just yet anyway. Maybe after a TON more miles and stairs. My office is on the 6th floor - I've figured out my silver lining to being back to work FT.... you got it! Avoid those elevators. Whew!
I realized late today that it's Thursday already, and I completely forgot to post a Wednesday Inspiration story (oops!), so I will catch up this weekend - in between running, shopping for more shorts (hee hee... I'm addicted!), and making black bean brownies. Yep - you read that correctly. Check out my Tuesday post over at Eating Good Stuff if you're interested. We've been talking about beans this week on that blog, and I'll be experimenting in the kitchen this weekend. I'll let you know my verdict..... (supposedly, they are fabulous!)
Headed to bed since it's a 'school night' - will catch up on all my writing this (long) weekend while the hubby (aka The Gamer) shoots bad guys, races virtual cars, and builds things...Can you say "Call of Duty".... TGIF, everybody!
Well, in spite of his reversal (at least part of the time), I must admit - I've purchased three more pairs of real running shorts since we began this discussion - to experiment, of course - different brands and different colors. It's nice to break out of the black and navy blue syndrome for a change... the 'happy colors' seem to make running more fun! And 5 Miles 2 Empty's skivvy primer a few days ago was priceless. (Thanks for that, especially the part about... well, nevermind... you know what I mean....) All of that said, I'm loving my new-found freedom... it's boundless, or would that be bindless??? btw - no spandex for this girl, not just yet anyway. Maybe after a TON more miles and stairs. My office is on the 6th floor - I've figured out my silver lining to being back to work FT.... you got it! Avoid those elevators. Whew!I realized late today that it's Thursday already, and I completely forgot to post a Wednesday Inspiration story (oops!), so I will catch up this weekend - in between running, shopping for more shorts (hee hee... I'm addicted!), and making black bean brownies. Yep - you read that correctly. Check out my Tuesday post over at Eating Good Stuff if you're interested. We've been talking about beans this week on that blog, and I'll be experimenting in the kitchen this weekend. I'll let you know my verdict..... (supposedly, they are fabulous!)
Headed to bed since it's a 'school night' - will catch up on all my writing this (long) weekend while the hubby (aka The Gamer) shoots bad guys, races virtual cars, and builds things...Can you say "Call of Duty".... TGIF, everybody!
My Thankful Three
Today, I am thankful for:
- Clearance sales :)
- Awesome students who make teaching f-u-n (and interesting)
- Coworkers who just get it (you know who you are!)
Robin
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
One Month Anniversary - Celebrating With Speedwork!
So my new little blog turns one month old today... yay! I can't believe it's only been a month - feels so much longer! (in a good way!) To celebrate, I did speedwork today. No, not really. I did speedwork because it's Tuesday, and according to my 6-week 10K training schedule, I'm supposed to do speedwork on Tuesdays. Then, easy run on Thursdays, and long run on Sundays. Walking/weight training on the alternate days, with Saturday as my 'rest' day. Definitely do-able.
I'm happy to report that I am fully engaged in my training program, mind, body, and spirit, and am really looking forward to the 10K. I feel like I've made a mental shift during the past month, and have become more committed to my running - figuring if others are willing to put blood, sweat and tears into it, then I can, too. It feels good to be committed. It feels good to challenge myself. It feels good to push myself, and follow through to reach my daily and weekly goals.
Right now, I will go on record and say I'd like to PR the 10K at 75 minutes or under. (That's about a 12:00 mile, right?) Now, for my running buddies who are fast, this sounds totally ridiculous, I know. However, have you forgotten who my pace setters are??? (Front page, top ... yes, the turtles!! That's right!) Shoot, just finishing the darn thing will be a big deal!! (I guess I really am a newbie!) Oh well....
Oh, have added the Autumn Rock 'n Run 5K to my race schedule, too - just for fun. It's Saturday, Sept 12th, so a little over a week away. Should be a blast!
I'm just happy to be running again, and 'really' training now; I hate (is that too strong?? it's how i feel about it!!!) being locked into a cubicle all....day.....long. Hate it, hate it, hate it. Don't mind the work at all, but can't stand the time clock mentality. Between the cube days and the teaching nights, my schedule is undergoing major adjustments after having the entire summer off. Would love to get up in the middle of my day on the computer and go for a run, then return to my work - just like I did all summer. Didn't need to punch a time clock to things done... ! Totally interferes with my writing schedule, too. grrr!!!! I know. I know. "Shut up, Robin. Be thankful you have a job." I know this. I just wish I could work on my own terms..... would be soooo much more productive! *Thanks for listening! :)
Nevermind all that --
Instead, please join me in celebrating my first official month as a blogger, my re-entry into running after that ridiculous sick crap, my enthusiastic and committed jump into 10K training, and, well, just because it's Tuesday. :) I feel good! I hope you do, too!
I'm happy to report that I am fully engaged in my training program, mind, body, and spirit, and am really looking forward to the 10K. I feel like I've made a mental shift during the past month, and have become more committed to my running - figuring if others are willing to put blood, sweat and tears into it, then I can, too. It feels good to be committed. It feels good to challenge myself. It feels good to push myself, and follow through to reach my daily and weekly goals.
Right now, I will go on record and say I'd like to PR the 10K at 75 minutes or under. (That's about a 12:00 mile, right?) Now, for my running buddies who are fast, this sounds totally ridiculous, I know. However, have you forgotten who my pace setters are??? (Front page, top ... yes, the turtles!! That's right!) Shoot, just finishing the darn thing will be a big deal!! (I guess I really am a newbie!) Oh well....
Oh, have added the Autumn Rock 'n Run 5K to my race schedule, too - just for fun. It's Saturday, Sept 12th, so a little over a week away. Should be a blast!
I'm just happy to be running again, and 'really' training now; I hate (is that too strong?? it's how i feel about it!!!) being locked into a cubicle all....day.....long. Hate it, hate it, hate it. Don't mind the work at all, but can't stand the time clock mentality. Between the cube days and the teaching nights, my schedule is undergoing major adjustments after having the entire summer off. Would love to get up in the middle of my day on the computer and go for a run, then return to my work - just like I did all summer. Didn't need to punch a time clock to things done... ! Totally interferes with my writing schedule, too. grrr!!!! I know. I know. "Shut up, Robin. Be thankful you have a job." I know this. I just wish I could work on my own terms..... would be soooo much more productive! *Thanks for listening! :)
Nevermind all that --
Instead, please join me in celebrating my first official month as a blogger, my re-entry into running after that ridiculous sick crap, my enthusiastic and committed jump into 10K training, and, well, just because it's Tuesday. :) I feel good! I hope you do, too!
My Thankful Three
Today, I am thankful for:
- Great new running gear that fits and performs well
- My coworker (and fellow 'humane foodie') who brought me fresh eggs from her free-range chickens... they are so beautiful and petite - like artwork! (Thanks, Jill!)
- And finally, the men and women who serve our country to keep us all safe... a BIG thank you to each and every one of you... Welcome home, "Mr. 5 Miles 2 Empty"
See you guys soon - and I owe you some return writing/comments... will get to those very soon!
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