It's been a busy, productive day. All the better to keep my mind occupied!
Friday update: I just got back from a really fun run with my husband...
Michael... RUNNING???
Well, no. He rode his bike, and I ran. It was very pleasant, though. Nice to have some company, and a gorgeous fall evening, the sun beginning to go down over the Lake, the moon rising over the trees, a small wedding ceremony by the Bil Mar. Just a short run, but so full.
And... as Michael put it at the end of my run... "Now, just do that 5 1/2 more times. Right?"
Right. No problem.
It's all how you look at it!
Showing posts with label training. Show all posts
Showing posts with label training. Show all posts
Friday, October 10, 2008
Thursday, October 09, 2008
Three Days To Go.
Thursday update: No run today. Decided it was better to rest the ol' legs... kind of nice to do it purposefully. Lots of thinking about the Big Day. Lots of thinking.
I'm trying to wrap my brain around the course. You can click HERE to see a map of the full layout.
Why 26.2 miles? According to Greek legend, a herald named Pheidippides ran 240 km (150 miles) in two days from the town of Marathon to Sparta to request help against the invading Persians... and upon conclusion of the battle then ran 42 km (26.2 miles) from Marathon to Athens. He announced the Greek victory... and promptly DIED. Historically, it is improbable. Poetically...
Pheidippides, by Robert Browning, immortalizes his feat thus:
So, when Persia was dust, all cried, "To Acropolis!
Run, Pheidippides, one race more! the meed is thy due!
Athens is saved, thank Pan, go shout!" He flung down his shield
Ran like fire once more: and the space 'twixt the fennel-field
And Athens was stubble again, a field which a fire runs through,
Till in he broke: "Rejoice, we conquer!" Like wine through clay,
Joy in his blood bursting his heart, - the bliss!
You can learn more about the marathon's history HERE, including its evolution and inclusion in the Olympic Games, beginning in 1896.
Did anyone else watch the Olympic marathons this year? It was the first time I've been interested... for obvious reasons. I watched, riveted, as Constantina Dita-Tomescu blew away the rest of the competition in the Women's Marathon in Beijing. And I learned from one of the marathon updates, she's going to be running in Chicago! Miles ahead of me, but still...
The Chicago Marathon has been an institution in the Windy City since 1977. You can find a fascinating slide show (check out the Fun Fact on each slide) featuring 30 years of pictures celebrating its history HERE. In 1977, there were 4200 participants and the entrance fee was $5. This year, the cap for registrants was set at 45,000, and the entrance fee was... more than $5. Ha ha! How the times change.
So much to think about.
I'm trying to wrap my brain around the course. You can click HERE to see a map of the full layout.
Why 26.2 miles? According to Greek legend, a herald named Pheidippides ran 240 km (150 miles) in two days from the town of Marathon to Sparta to request help against the invading Persians... and upon conclusion of the battle then ran 42 km (26.2 miles) from Marathon to Athens. He announced the Greek victory... and promptly DIED. Historically, it is improbable. Poetically...
Pheidippides, by Robert Browning, immortalizes his feat thus:
So, when Persia was dust, all cried, "To Acropolis!
Run, Pheidippides, one race more! the meed is thy due!
Athens is saved, thank Pan, go shout!" He flung down his shield
Ran like fire once more: and the space 'twixt the fennel-field
And Athens was stubble again, a field which a fire runs through,
Till in he broke: "Rejoice, we conquer!" Like wine through clay,
Joy in his blood bursting his heart, - the bliss!
You can learn more about the marathon's history HERE, including its evolution and inclusion in the Olympic Games, beginning in 1896.
Did anyone else watch the Olympic marathons this year? It was the first time I've been interested... for obvious reasons. I watched, riveted, as Constantina Dita-Tomescu blew away the rest of the competition in the Women's Marathon in Beijing. And I learned from one of the marathon updates, she's going to be running in Chicago! Miles ahead of me, but still...
The Chicago Marathon has been an institution in the Windy City since 1977. You can find a fascinating slide show (check out the Fun Fact on each slide) featuring 30 years of pictures celebrating its history HERE. In 1977, there were 4200 participants and the entrance fee was $5. This year, the cap for registrants was set at 45,000, and the entrance fee was... more than $5. Ha ha! How the times change.
So much to think about.
Wednesday, October 08, 2008
Four Days To Go.
And I feel like I have so much to do.
That's kind of an illusion, though. I was going through my insurmountable mental checklist of tasks to complete before we leave on Saturday... but in reality, all the most important preparation is done. I haven't packed, I still need to finish cleaning the house, I've got e-mails to send and people to call.
In spite of it all, I am ready.
16 weeks ready.
$1,010 raised so far for Team World Vision (THANK YOU!).
14 long runs done.
Countless shorter runs, speed workouts and intervals logged.
Hotel booked.
Dozens of articles and newsletters read.
Marathon clothing purchased, broken in.
Shoes laced.
Mental readiness complete.
I think I'm as ready as possible! Since the River Bank Run in May, I've logged 764.10 miles with my Nike+ chip. Some of them are triumphant, others painful. I suspect that's a bit what the marathon will feel like. Again, I remind myself: Have fun!
Wednesday update: My run today was damp.
I decided to see how my iPod and gels fit into my new race belt. They fit well, and I can put my chapstick in there, too. My race bib will attach to loops on the belt as well, so that I don't have to worry about pinning it to the outermost shirt or changing it when I shed a layer of clothing. It bounces around quite a bit, but I think it'll be better once I use up the first gel or two. Since I was running with the iPod in the belt, I didn't wear the headphones. It was a nice time to think about what it will be like, running without music during the race. I'm sure the experience will be very different, running with thousands of on-lookers, but I still enjoyed the preparation.
In the damp, grey day, I almost had the pier and boardwalk to myself. It was intriguing to hear the wind and the waves over the sound of my own breathing. The wind was coming from the northwest, and the waves in the channel were gulping hungrily at the edge of the pier, while the waves on the Lake side were menacing, deadly, as they rolled silently toward the shore. The water was a dark, murky grey. It was beautiful.
Very different experiences await me in Chicago. I can't wait!
That's kind of an illusion, though. I was going through my insurmountable mental checklist of tasks to complete before we leave on Saturday... but in reality, all the most important preparation is done. I haven't packed, I still need to finish cleaning the house, I've got e-mails to send and people to call.
In spite of it all, I am ready.
16 weeks ready.
$1,010 raised so far for Team World Vision (THANK YOU!).
14 long runs done.
Countless shorter runs, speed workouts and intervals logged.
Hotel booked.
Dozens of articles and newsletters read.
Marathon clothing purchased, broken in.
Shoes laced.
Mental readiness complete.
I think I'm as ready as possible! Since the River Bank Run in May, I've logged 764.10 miles with my Nike+ chip. Some of them are triumphant, others painful. I suspect that's a bit what the marathon will feel like. Again, I remind myself: Have fun!
Wednesday update: My run today was damp.
I decided to see how my iPod and gels fit into my new race belt. They fit well, and I can put my chapstick in there, too. My race bib will attach to loops on the belt as well, so that I don't have to worry about pinning it to the outermost shirt or changing it when I shed a layer of clothing. It bounces around quite a bit, but I think it'll be better once I use up the first gel or two. Since I was running with the iPod in the belt, I didn't wear the headphones. It was a nice time to think about what it will be like, running without music during the race. I'm sure the experience will be very different, running with thousands of on-lookers, but I still enjoyed the preparation.
In the damp, grey day, I almost had the pier and boardwalk to myself. It was intriguing to hear the wind and the waves over the sound of my own breathing. The wind was coming from the northwest, and the waves in the channel were gulping hungrily at the edge of the pier, while the waves on the Lake side were menacing, deadly, as they rolled silently toward the shore. The water was a dark, murky grey. It was beautiful.
Very different experiences await me in Chicago. I can't wait!
Tuesday, October 07, 2008
Five Days To Go.
This is really going to happen.
Tuesday update: I didn't make it out for a run yesterday. I took a day of recuperation. No particular reason or strategy behind it, but I hope it all adds up to success in the end!
I ran into The Rollerblader again today. It was a sign of the times (or perhaps just the weather)... he was bundled in full pants, a jacket, a hat, gloves, in addition to his normal protective gear. We exchanged greetings and I shared with him that "my" marathon is this weekend... when we passed each other again later, each going in the opposite direction, he offered some sage advice, "Whatever you do in your marathon, HAVE FUN!"
I'll have to remember that when I reach the point that each step becomes difficult. Have fun. I hope to try!
In preparation for the chilly morning we'll have before the start, I purchased some gloves and a head band this afternoon. The gloves are cheap, and I will most likely just toss them when I start to heat up. The head band was not... I'm hoping I can pull it down around my neck and that it won't be too irritating. Otherwise, I might not wear it at all. I'll be sporting my World Vision racing shirt... so proud to have been supporting a great cause all along. My new shoes are feeling great. Stopped at Running Circles for a couple more gels. So many last minutes preparations... but it's all coming together!
Tuesday update: I didn't make it out for a run yesterday. I took a day of recuperation. No particular reason or strategy behind it, but I hope it all adds up to success in the end!
I ran into The Rollerblader again today. It was a sign of the times (or perhaps just the weather)... he was bundled in full pants, a jacket, a hat, gloves, in addition to his normal protective gear. We exchanged greetings and I shared with him that "my" marathon is this weekend... when we passed each other again later, each going in the opposite direction, he offered some sage advice, "Whatever you do in your marathon, HAVE FUN!"
I'll have to remember that when I reach the point that each step becomes difficult. Have fun. I hope to try!
In preparation for the chilly morning we'll have before the start, I purchased some gloves and a head band this afternoon. The gloves are cheap, and I will most likely just toss them when I start to heat up. The head band was not... I'm hoping I can pull it down around my neck and that it won't be too irritating. Otherwise, I might not wear it at all. I'll be sporting my World Vision racing shirt... so proud to have been supporting a great cause all along. My new shoes are feeling great. Stopped at Running Circles for a couple more gels. So many last minutes preparations... but it's all coming together!
Saturday, October 04, 2008
Time is Short.
Saturday update: Quick little run, quick little update.
Glad to see the sun today. It was a frigid 31 degrees on my drive home from work this morning. The temperature was up in the 50's when I made it out for a run this afternoon, which makes it... better.
8 Days Until Race Day!
Wow.
Glad to see the sun today. It was a frigid 31 degrees on my drive home from work this morning. The temperature was up in the 50's when I made it out for a run this afternoon, which makes it... better.
8 Days Until Race Day!
Wow.
Friday, October 03, 2008
Happy Birthday Jacob!
I've been slacking on the updates. I think the "taper" mentality has transferred to my blogging efforts as well. I have been very thoughtful with my runs, and trying to gradually decrease mileage to allow my body to be in tip-top shape for the race. The chill in the air makes it more difficult to take that first step outside anyhow...
BUT... today has BIGGER, MORE IMPORTANT happenings anyway:
At 1:31pm on October 3, 1997, weighing 7 lbs 15 oz, Jacob Michael Peoples came blasting into the world... he hasn't stopped moving since! What a bright and vibrant personality. We LOVE you so much, Jacob!
Jacob will spend most of today with his classmates, celebrating with chocolate chip cookies and fun Friday activities. His chosen birthday plans for tonight with Grandma include a trip to Crazy Bounce and the premiere of Star Wars: the Clone Wars on Cartoon Network (his choice). Happy Birthday!!!
And we can't forget Jacob's (almost) birthday buddy and great-grandmother, Nana:
On October 2, 1918, Joan Rodenhouse was born. Yesterday, Joan (Nana) Hoekstra turned an outstanding 90 years old. What a life she has lived... she was born at the end of World War I into a loving family in Grand Rapids, MI. She has lived through the Roaring Twenties, the Great Depression, World War II (during which her 1st son, my dad, was born, and she watched her husband, brother and many other loved ones go off to war), the 50's, Women's Lib, the Cultural Revolution of the 60's, the birth of her seven grandchildren, beginning in 1974, the death of her beloved daughter, Christy, and cherished husband, Rich (Bops), and now the birth of (so far) four great-grandchildren, with another on the way! Difficult to comprehend the enormity of these years and the impact she has had on all our lives. Easy to see why they call her a part of the "Greatest Generation."
Happy Birthday, Nana! We LOVE you... God bless you!
Friday update: I'm not sure I'll have time to make it out for a run today, but I've managed a few good runs so far, including my intended long run for the week.
It has been mostly cold and cloudy with lots of rain. I wished I had my camera with me a couple of times... on Tuesday, there was a strong northeast wind and I watched 8 or 9 parasurfers on the south side of the South Pier... so close I felt like I could touch them! They skim across the water at incredible speeds, and I saw one of them leap from a wave and rise at least 30 feet up into the air. What a thrill! The waves are enormous when the wind is strong like that, and there were a couple of days that I couldn't make it to the end of the pier, as the waves were washing right OVER it. I didn't have a camera with me, but it looked a lot like this picture from a year or two ago:
The countdown continues. Only 9 days until Race Day. I still welcome anyone who hasn't taken a look at my fundraising page to consider a donation toward my efforts for Team World Vision. You can find all the details HERE. Thank you to everyone who has already pledged their support... it means so much to me!
I still have lots of last minute preparations to make to ensure that we are ready and everything goes smoothly. Otherwise, since I'm not supposed to do much running, it's kind of a waiting game now. (And a little gut-churning to go along with that.) Chicago, here I come!
BUT... today has BIGGER, MORE IMPORTANT happenings anyway:
Jacob is 11!!!
At 1:31pm on October 3, 1997, weighing 7 lbs 15 oz, Jacob Michael Peoples came blasting into the world... he hasn't stopped moving since! What a bright and vibrant personality. We LOVE you so much, Jacob!
Jacob will spend most of today with his classmates, celebrating with chocolate chip cookies and fun Friday activities. His chosen birthday plans for tonight with Grandma include a trip to Crazy Bounce and the premiere of Star Wars: the Clone Wars on Cartoon Network (his choice). Happy Birthday!!!
And we can't forget Jacob's (almost) birthday buddy and great-grandmother, Nana:
On October 2, 1918, Joan Rodenhouse was born. Yesterday, Joan (Nana) Hoekstra turned an outstanding 90 years old. What a life she has lived... she was born at the end of World War I into a loving family in Grand Rapids, MI. She has lived through the Roaring Twenties, the Great Depression, World War II (during which her 1st son, my dad, was born, and she watched her husband, brother and many other loved ones go off to war), the 50's, Women's Lib, the Cultural Revolution of the 60's, the birth of her seven grandchildren, beginning in 1974, the death of her beloved daughter, Christy, and cherished husband, Rich (Bops), and now the birth of (so far) four great-grandchildren, with another on the way! Difficult to comprehend the enormity of these years and the impact she has had on all our lives. Easy to see why they call her a part of the "Greatest Generation."
Happy Birthday, Nana! We LOVE you... God bless you!
Friday update: I'm not sure I'll have time to make it out for a run today, but I've managed a few good runs so far, including my intended long run for the week.
It has been mostly cold and cloudy with lots of rain. I wished I had my camera with me a couple of times... on Tuesday, there was a strong northeast wind and I watched 8 or 9 parasurfers on the south side of the South Pier... so close I felt like I could touch them! They skim across the water at incredible speeds, and I saw one of them leap from a wave and rise at least 30 feet up into the air. What a thrill! The waves are enormous when the wind is strong like that, and there were a couple of days that I couldn't make it to the end of the pier, as the waves were washing right OVER it. I didn't have a camera with me, but it looked a lot like this picture from a year or two ago:
The countdown continues. Only 9 days until Race Day. I still welcome anyone who hasn't taken a look at my fundraising page to consider a donation toward my efforts for Team World Vision. You can find all the details HERE. Thank you to everyone who has already pledged their support... it means so much to me!
I still have lots of last minute preparations to make to ensure that we are ready and everything goes smoothly. Otherwise, since I'm not supposed to do much running, it's kind of a waiting game now. (And a little gut-churning to go along with that.) Chicago, here I come!
Monday, September 29, 2008
It had to come eventually.
It's official. Fall is here.
Monday update: I ran this morning because I saw that rain was in the forecast. It was downright chilly... the clouds and wind added to the effect. There were a total of two cars at the city beach, and very few walkers on the pier. The crunchy fallen leaves are beginning to cover the sidewalk, and the squirrels are out in a frenzy.
It was, however, a good run. I'm still enjoying the taper... only 13 days until the Marathon.
I found a fun tidbit in the brochure that came with my confirmation for the race... family and friends can "track" my progress on Race Day. If you're interested, click HERE and follow the directions to Online Runner Tracking. You can enter my name and then either your e-mail address or mobile phone number to receive periodic updates as I pass certain checkpoints along the course (10K, half, 30K and finish). It'll be almost like you're right there, cheering me on!
My very own cheering section... I love it!
Thanks for your support and thoughts everyone. I'm feeling a little better today, wondering if it was mostly the fatigue and dehydration of working and racing this weekend. Otherwise, I'm just hoping to heal and be in tip top shape by October 12!
Until tomorrow...
Monday update: I ran this morning because I saw that rain was in the forecast. It was downright chilly... the clouds and wind added to the effect. There were a total of two cars at the city beach, and very few walkers on the pier. The crunchy fallen leaves are beginning to cover the sidewalk, and the squirrels are out in a frenzy.
It was, however, a good run. I'm still enjoying the taper... only 13 days until the Marathon.
I found a fun tidbit in the brochure that came with my confirmation for the race... family and friends can "track" my progress on Race Day. If you're interested, click HERE and follow the directions to Online Runner Tracking. You can enter my name and then either your e-mail address or mobile phone number to receive periodic updates as I pass certain checkpoints along the course (10K, half, 30K and finish). It'll be almost like you're right there, cheering me on!
My very own cheering section... I love it!
Thanks for your support and thoughts everyone. I'm feeling a little better today, wondering if it was mostly the fatigue and dehydration of working and racing this weekend. Otherwise, I'm just hoping to heal and be in tip top shape by October 12!
Until tomorrow...
Friday, September 26, 2008
Time Flies.
Where did this week go?
Friday update: The days move too quickly... or my sense of time is skewed! Another week has passed me by, and it's back-to-work tonight. I'm glad to have been keeping these updates. I think it has helped me to prepare for the race and given each passing day more clarity than before. When the facts are laid out before me (whether or not anyone else has glimpsed these muddied reflections) , I can absorb the reality of the quickly approaching deadline. Soon the race will be days, not weeks, away.
I had a very nice run today. Promised myself to take it easy, considering that there will be no sleep, and virtually no rest between now and the Race for the Cure tomorrow morning. We have not quite met our team fundraising goal yet. If anyone would like to chip in, click on the link above. Your support is genuinely appreciated!
It is another gorgeous day. Hot. Lots of folks strolling the boardwalk. I saw my one-legged friend... he was at the end of the pier today. He said, "How are you today, sweetheart?" Awww... does he know what a sucker I am for terms of endearment? Thank you, God, for two strong legs, a beating heart, two good lungs, and the will to run...
Friday update: The days move too quickly... or my sense of time is skewed! Another week has passed me by, and it's back-to-work tonight. I'm glad to have been keeping these updates. I think it has helped me to prepare for the race and given each passing day more clarity than before. When the facts are laid out before me (whether or not anyone else has glimpsed these muddied reflections) , I can absorb the reality of the quickly approaching deadline. Soon the race will be days, not weeks, away.
I had a very nice run today. Promised myself to take it easy, considering that there will be no sleep, and virtually no rest between now and the Race for the Cure tomorrow morning. We have not quite met our team fundraising goal yet. If anyone would like to chip in, click on the link above. Your support is genuinely appreciated!
It is another gorgeous day. Hot. Lots of folks strolling the boardwalk. I saw my one-legged friend... he was at the end of the pier today. He said, "How are you today, sweetheart?" Awww... does he know what a sucker I am for terms of endearment? Thank you, God, for two strong legs, a beating heart, two good lungs, and the will to run...
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Big Hopes.
Today was great!
Thursday update: I spent the morning with the three munchkins... lots of running and laughing, some very earnest toddler/preschool conversations, and one big poopy pants (sigh). I had the pleasure of dropping Cayden off to preschool; how much fun did we have with him riding in my car, enjoying the novelty of someone else's car, sitting in Micah's booster... I opened the sunroof and he was thrilled! What a refreshing perspective. I was energized and enthused for my long run when I got home (besides being motivated by the fact that I only had a few hours window in which to get it done).
It was GREAT! Perfect weather... a little cloudy on the outset, although the sun (and heat) were full on by the time I finished. I decided to see what kind of "race pace" I might be able to handle. I was able to keep it at about 8'15'-8'30" per mile for most of the way, and that was VERY encouraging. I'll have to keep in mind that the marathon is MUCH longer, but at least I know where I stand.
I saw my habitual friend, The Rollerblader, again. When I was babysitting, I had a chance to look at the Grand Haven Tribune from yesterday, and there was this article about him! Apparently his conspicuous presence is enjoyed not only to me... I was delighted to read about how he has developed the habit of coming here to roll down the boardwalk on an almost daily basis, and I learned that he drives all the way from Lowell to get here! As we crossed paths, I said, "I saw your article, you're a celebrity now!" Always friendly, he responded, "Yep, next I'm on to Hollywood!" I wonder if I look a little strange, running with a private grin on my face?
Today was also the first time that Paula Radcliffe spoke to me through my iPod at the end of my run... I don't know if I've mentioned it here before, although it would seem obvious from the various images and graphs that I have posted of my goals and runs, but I use the Nike+ sport kit to aid and supplement my runs. It keeps track of pace, mileage, and calories, etc. It allows me to use certain songs and combinations of songs for an extra boost of motivation when I'm dragging. It has been a fantastic tool (and toy?) to complement my running. I've received praise and encouragement from Joan Benoit Samuelson (1984 Olympic marathon gold medalist), Lance Armstrong, and even Tiger Woods. Anyway, it was a bit of a thrill to hear from Paula, the women's world-record holder in the marathon distance with a time of 2:15:25... by way of comparison, may I humbly point out that my official time for the River Bank Run in May was 2:15:32? I ran 15.5 miles... she ran 26.2. I'm just saying... wow.
One last special happening for today: my sweet friend and training buddy, Kim, is pregnant with her sixth child. She has 5 little boys at home and is a wonderful, energetic and creative mom. Today, as I ran, I prayed for her... she was at her routine mid-pregnancy ultrasound and planning to find out the gender of this much-anticipated babe. I think this picture says it all... Congratulations, Kim and Dave!
Thursday update: I spent the morning with the three munchkins... lots of running and laughing, some very earnest toddler/preschool conversations, and one big poopy pants (sigh). I had the pleasure of dropping Cayden off to preschool; how much fun did we have with him riding in my car, enjoying the novelty of someone else's car, sitting in Micah's booster... I opened the sunroof and he was thrilled! What a refreshing perspective. I was energized and enthused for my long run when I got home (besides being motivated by the fact that I only had a few hours window in which to get it done).
It was GREAT! Perfect weather... a little cloudy on the outset, although the sun (and heat) were full on by the time I finished. I decided to see what kind of "race pace" I might be able to handle. I was able to keep it at about 8'15'-8'30" per mile for most of the way, and that was VERY encouraging. I'll have to keep in mind that the marathon is MUCH longer, but at least I know where I stand.
I saw my habitual friend, The Rollerblader, again. When I was babysitting, I had a chance to look at the Grand Haven Tribune from yesterday, and there was this article about him! Apparently his conspicuous presence is enjoyed not only to me... I was delighted to read about how he has developed the habit of coming here to roll down the boardwalk on an almost daily basis, and I learned that he drives all the way from Lowell to get here! As we crossed paths, I said, "I saw your article, you're a celebrity now!" Always friendly, he responded, "Yep, next I'm on to Hollywood!" I wonder if I look a little strange, running with a private grin on my face?
Today was also the first time that Paula Radcliffe spoke to me through my iPod at the end of my run... I don't know if I've mentioned it here before, although it would seem obvious from the various images and graphs that I have posted of my goals and runs, but I use the Nike+ sport kit to aid and supplement my runs. It keeps track of pace, mileage, and calories, etc. It allows me to use certain songs and combinations of songs for an extra boost of motivation when I'm dragging. It has been a fantastic tool (and toy?) to complement my running. I've received praise and encouragement from Joan Benoit Samuelson (1984 Olympic marathon gold medalist), Lance Armstrong, and even Tiger Woods. Anyway, it was a bit of a thrill to hear from Paula, the women's world-record holder in the marathon distance with a time of 2:15:25... by way of comparison, may I humbly point out that my official time for the River Bank Run in May was 2:15:32? I ran 15.5 miles... she ran 26.2. I'm just saying... wow.
One last special happening for today: my sweet friend and training buddy, Kim, is pregnant with her sixth child. She has 5 little boys at home and is a wonderful, energetic and creative mom. Today, as I ran, I prayed for her... she was at her routine mid-pregnancy ultrasound and planning to find out the gender of this much-anticipated babe. I think this picture says it all... Congratulations, Kim and Dave!
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Another day. Another run.
Tuesday update: Battling a little fatigue the last couple of days. Usually I'm able to readjust to my weekday schedule by today, but this week I'm still struggling. I was able to enjoy a late breakfast with my parents and my Uncle Kees and Aunt Pam, who are visiting from Toronto. They walked with me to the running store, and the owner enthusiastically fitted me with the latest model of my favorite shoe, the Mizuno Wave Elixir. (He's right... it IS lighter!) I sat down at the computer to edit a few more pictures when I got back home and could barely keep my eyes open! I made the decision to skip my run today, felt okay about it... and then I got the bug. It's difficult to explain, this feeling. But I'm glad that I can still find fulfillment in the running, despite the hard times. Glad there is still enjoyment in it.
I made it a short run, 5 miles, and tried to push my speed. I ran hard through the first 5K, and made it in about 23 minutes, despite the hills. I'm looking forward to the Race for the Cure 5K this Saturday, and it looks like the weather is going to be great!
So, I'm glad I stuck it out... it's always better that way.
Thanks for sticking it out with me.
I made it a short run, 5 miles, and tried to push my speed. I ran hard through the first 5K, and made it in about 23 minutes, despite the hills. I'm looking forward to the Race for the Cure 5K this Saturday, and it looks like the weather is going to be great!
So, I'm glad I stuck it out... it's always better that way.
Thanks for sticking it out with me.
Monday, September 22, 2008
Tired. Again.
And not much to say.
Monday update: I didn't have to work last night, but didn't get much sleep. It was nice to have some time to get things done today, but I'm exhausted.
I need to get myself to the running store and get some new shoes tomorrow. I've been putting it off for a week, but I need to give myself time enough to break them in. Tomorrow it is.
Monday update: I didn't have to work last night, but didn't get much sleep. It was nice to have some time to get things done today, but I'm exhausted.
I need to get myself to the running store and get some new shoes tomorrow. I've been putting it off for a week, but I need to give myself time enough to break them in. Tomorrow it is.
Friday, September 19, 2008
Observations.
Oh, thank God for a really good run today!
Friday update: I let the run come to me today. Basked in the sun, took in everything around me. What is it that makes one run so different from another?
There was so much to observe, and the distractions always help. It was also uplifting to feel GOOD while I ran. My breathing was easy, my stride fell into place. A few times I was surprised to find my pace increasing without consciously trying to speed up.
A few thoughts:
The waves again pounding up onto the pier... I wonder if the people standing on the end, gazing out at the Big Lake feel as exhilerated as I do when I round the corner? The same guy attempting to surf on the choppy rollers today... does he recognize me when I wave? The one-legged man spoke to me today! I think he said, "How are you today?" but my music drowned him out and I briefly regretted this. The Coast Guard boat heading out onto the Lake on my way out, and escorting a freighter loaded with sand or gravel on my return trip. The man standing on the bow of the freighter returned my wave. What a life that must be. Brown and crispy leaves skittering across the road like small animals. The sun settled resolutely in it's southern winter place in the sky... the shadows have shifted.
It was so GOOD to have a good run. Can you tell?
If I took anything away from all the rhetoric at work yesterday, it was the idea that we each place our "thumbprint" on each other from the moment we meet in passing... today, my smile and greeting were returned more often than not. Some days it's difficult to find eye contact from anyone else along the way. Today I gave and found positivity to my fellow boardwalkers, runners, bikers and boaters. It's a sunny day, in more ways than one!
One more week until the Race for the Cure 5K... this will by my sixth year in a row, competing in the 5K race after working all night. It's an incredible race, and a cause for which I am also passionate! You can visit my Race Center HERE. Thanks for your support, everyone!
Friday update: I let the run come to me today. Basked in the sun, took in everything around me. What is it that makes one run so different from another?
There was so much to observe, and the distractions always help. It was also uplifting to feel GOOD while I ran. My breathing was easy, my stride fell into place. A few times I was surprised to find my pace increasing without consciously trying to speed up.
A few thoughts:
The waves again pounding up onto the pier... I wonder if the people standing on the end, gazing out at the Big Lake feel as exhilerated as I do when I round the corner? The same guy attempting to surf on the choppy rollers today... does he recognize me when I wave? The one-legged man spoke to me today! I think he said, "How are you today?" but my music drowned him out and I briefly regretted this. The Coast Guard boat heading out onto the Lake on my way out, and escorting a freighter loaded with sand or gravel on my return trip. The man standing on the bow of the freighter returned my wave. What a life that must be. Brown and crispy leaves skittering across the road like small animals. The sun settled resolutely in it's southern winter place in the sky... the shadows have shifted.
It was so GOOD to have a good run. Can you tell?
If I took anything away from all the rhetoric at work yesterday, it was the idea that we each place our "thumbprint" on each other from the moment we meet in passing... today, my smile and greeting were returned more often than not. Some days it's difficult to find eye contact from anyone else along the way. Today I gave and found positivity to my fellow boardwalkers, runners, bikers and boaters. It's a sunny day, in more ways than one!
One more week until the Race for the Cure 5K... this will by my sixth year in a row, competing in the 5K race after working all night. It's an incredible race, and a cause for which I am also passionate! You can visit my Race Center HERE. Thanks for your support, everyone!
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
And Downs.
Well, they can't all be good ones.
Wednesday update: And sometimes I wonder if all those people who think I'm crazy for doing a marathon are right. This Sunday will mark 3 weeks until Race Day, and the beginning of my taper down, running fewer miles each week until the big day. Today, I was shooting for one last good long run of about 20 miles.
My body said 17.
As I headed for home, I was beating myself up, but I struggled to move past the disappointment and negativity (and the fear of what this means for the race distance)... and by the time I rounded the corner for home, I was almost considering pushing through the last few miles, thinking, "I feel like I CAN do it!" But I ended the run at 17 miles anyway, and made the decision to be satisfied with it.
So much of this distance running is mental. Because the long runs take a LONG time, I spend a lot of time thinking, planning, wondering, strategizing... my mental approach makes a big difference in how the run feels and how I'm able to execute it. I'm convinced that I DO have the mental strength to tough out those last few agonizing miles on Race Day, no matter how my body decides to behave on that particular morning. I'm hoping that conditions will be ideal, and I'll be feeling healthy and strong. Either way, I'll make it happen.
It was another gorgeous day on the boardwalk. Lots of sights to keep me from getting too wrapped up in my thoughts: two guys surfing off the south pier who probably thought I was crazy by the fourth or fifth time I ran past them, the gentleman with one prosthetic leg and his blind dog with whom I always try to share a wave and a smile, a few dogged fishermen braving the swells and splashes, lots of walkers, a few runners, several amateur photographers, and the elderly couples who walk hand-in-hand and make me nostalgic for an age I have not nearly reached. I am reminded how fortunate I am to live here... I love it.
I did manage to get a few pictures last night before Jacob's soccer practice, but I didn't realize how many I had taken since school started... there were almost 300 to go through! I've finally finished editing them. Here are a few that represent some of my favorite sights while running.
Wednesday update: And sometimes I wonder if all those people who think I'm crazy for doing a marathon are right. This Sunday will mark 3 weeks until Race Day, and the beginning of my taper down, running fewer miles each week until the big day. Today, I was shooting for one last good long run of about 20 miles.
My body said 17.
As I headed for home, I was beating myself up, but I struggled to move past the disappointment and negativity (and the fear of what this means for the race distance)... and by the time I rounded the corner for home, I was almost considering pushing through the last few miles, thinking, "I feel like I CAN do it!" But I ended the run at 17 miles anyway, and made the decision to be satisfied with it.
So much of this distance running is mental. Because the long runs take a LONG time, I spend a lot of time thinking, planning, wondering, strategizing... my mental approach makes a big difference in how the run feels and how I'm able to execute it. I'm convinced that I DO have the mental strength to tough out those last few agonizing miles on Race Day, no matter how my body decides to behave on that particular morning. I'm hoping that conditions will be ideal, and I'll be feeling healthy and strong. Either way, I'll make it happen.
It was another gorgeous day on the boardwalk. Lots of sights to keep me from getting too wrapped up in my thoughts: two guys surfing off the south pier who probably thought I was crazy by the fourth or fifth time I ran past them, the gentleman with one prosthetic leg and his blind dog with whom I always try to share a wave and a smile, a few dogged fishermen braving the swells and splashes, lots of walkers, a few runners, several amateur photographers, and the elderly couples who walk hand-in-hand and make me nostalgic for an age I have not nearly reached. I am reminded how fortunate I am to live here... I love it.
I did manage to get a few pictures last night before Jacob's soccer practice, but I didn't realize how many I had taken since school started... there were almost 300 to go through! I've finally finished editing them. Here are a few that represent some of my favorite sights while running.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Beautiful Day.
If a bit chilly.
Tuesday update: This is the perfect day, and so welcome after the wetness and gloom of the weekend. It was a little chilly, in the low 40's, this morning, but it was creeping up into the 50's as I left the house for a run. And the sun is out! That makes everything seem better. I hope to make it back to the boardwalk this afternoon and snap a few pictures of the sights and scenes I pass every day on my run.
Overall, it felt good. 9 miles. I tried to push my pace a bit on miles 3,5 and 7. It felt good, but I am reminded that I probably won't be able to keep up that kind of speed for 26 miles. I don't want to go out too fast for the race, but I don't want to underestimate my potential either. Hopefully I'll be able to settle into a comfortable race pace once I get going on Race Day. So much to think about...
Until later!
Tuesday update: This is the perfect day, and so welcome after the wetness and gloom of the weekend. It was a little chilly, in the low 40's, this morning, but it was creeping up into the 50's as I left the house for a run. And the sun is out! That makes everything seem better. I hope to make it back to the boardwalk this afternoon and snap a few pictures of the sights and scenes I pass every day on my run.
Overall, it felt good. 9 miles. I tried to push my pace a bit on miles 3,5 and 7. It felt good, but I am reminded that I probably won't be able to keep up that kind of speed for 26 miles. I don't want to go out too fast for the race, but I don't want to underestimate my potential either. Hopefully I'll be able to settle into a comfortable race pace once I get going on Race Day. So much to think about...
Until later!
Monday, September 15, 2008
Drying Out.
Finally, a run!
Monday update: I worked at Holland last night and was able to get a good day's sleep with the boys away at school and Michael off to run all of his errands. And tonight, when the boys headed to story time at the library with Grandma, I (finally) made it out for a run!
It was a cool 61 degrees and a bit breezy. The sidewalks were dry, no rain in the clouds today. The beach was nearly empty, save for one brave soul armed with a wetsuit and surfboard, attempting to catch the few small breakers on the Lake today. I ran into an old friend on the boardwalk. Lots of faithful fishermen on the pier. I had a few cramps and kinks to work out, but overall it felt really good to get out there again.
And tomorrow is another day!
This World Vision video was included in an e-mail newsletter I received today. I think it was made for me, mostly regarding my week last week!
Until tomorrow...
Monday update: I worked at Holland last night and was able to get a good day's sleep with the boys away at school and Michael off to run all of his errands. And tonight, when the boys headed to story time at the library with Grandma, I (finally) made it out for a run!
It was a cool 61 degrees and a bit breezy. The sidewalks were dry, no rain in the clouds today. The beach was nearly empty, save for one brave soul armed with a wetsuit and surfboard, attempting to catch the few small breakers on the Lake today. I ran into an old friend on the boardwalk. Lots of faithful fishermen on the pier. I had a few cramps and kinks to work out, but overall it felt really good to get out there again.
And tomorrow is another day!
This World Vision video was included in an e-mail newsletter I received today. I think it was made for me, mostly regarding my week last week!
Until tomorrow...
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