Sunday RUN 4.2 miles in 40 mins
Tuesday RUN 4.25 miles in 39 mins
Sunday -- my plan was to run 1 mile at a time, using my 'dog walk' loops around the house. That way at the end of each mile I'd be close to the house and could cut short if needed. In the first half mile, I was feeling so good that I was thinking 4 or 5 instead of 2 or 3! So I did a park loop, a CH loop, then reversed course to repeat parts of it. I could still feel pain, and oddly it would come and go. Sometimes very sharp, others a dull ache. I focused on my form, wondering if I was speeding up, getting tense, going up or down hill...couldn't find a pattern.
Monday I rested, and waited to see if I'd have a flare of pain like I did after running last Tuesday. Nope.
So Tuesday -- same plan, pretty much similar results. Less pain maybe? But still I'd have a block or so of running that really hurt, then the hurt would go away. The rest of the day was OK, some pain but very tolerable.
It's not helping that when I carry boxes I tend to rest things on my right hip!
Very busy week, lots of stress. I'm anxious to get settled into my new home, and get back to NORMAL LIFE.
Tuesday, September 29, 2015
Thursday, September 24, 2015
Biopsy, healing, MT100, and more healing
Wow, where have I been, right?! Healing!
Last Weds I had my bone biopsy. Two 5mm holes through the iliac (transiliac). I couldn't see the size of the skin cuts until yesterday (one week after surgery). They're very minor, but it's an ugly site with the mottled purple and yellow from bruising, and the swelling.
More problematic is the pain. Weds I could barely walk, Thursday to Friday was rapid improvements, some pain, and the major limiter being an inability to lift my leg up. I rode by bike to work Friday and was OK. But the quick changes were promising. I didn't run as I hoped at the MT100, just a 3 mile hike Sunday morning. By this time walking was still a little pained, I certainly hurt running, and movement was coming back. And countertops were becoming less of a problem!
In total I rested until Tuesday morning, when I tried my usual 4 mile LP route. It hurt to run, but not terribly so. But it hurt. Worse though, that that it hurt even more afterwards! The pain was now focal, not the side of my hip but just one spot. Tuesday afternoon it hurt to even walk.
Skipped the Weds run, skipped the Thursday run. And here now it's Thursday. Still hurting, and going to play the weekend once I get to it.
Vol'd at the MT100 where my friends BR and AR had awesome races! I was surprised at the number of runners I knew, and who knew me. Makes me want to get more involved somehow.
The races were inspiring to watch, but also a little killer. Here I'm waiting to sign up for OT100 but can't until a few things are worked out, and my hip is only one of them.
While watching the Hobbit movie (finally!) Weds after the surgery I got an email that the Big D is going to pretrial the Monday after OT100! OFF ALL DAYS! So my initial plan of driving myself on Friday, staying until Monday is out. Now I'm back to finding a ride on Friday. There are two others who need a ride, so this should work out with 3 of us looking.
So I'm not signed up, glad I didn't Tuesday (in my last post that was my next action!), and I'm just waiting....
Last Weds I had my bone biopsy. Two 5mm holes through the iliac (transiliac). I couldn't see the size of the skin cuts until yesterday (one week after surgery). They're very minor, but it's an ugly site with the mottled purple and yellow from bruising, and the swelling.
More problematic is the pain. Weds I could barely walk, Thursday to Friday was rapid improvements, some pain, and the major limiter being an inability to lift my leg up. I rode by bike to work Friday and was OK. But the quick changes were promising. I didn't run as I hoped at the MT100, just a 3 mile hike Sunday morning. By this time walking was still a little pained, I certainly hurt running, and movement was coming back. And countertops were becoming less of a problem!
In total I rested until Tuesday morning, when I tried my usual 4 mile LP route. It hurt to run, but not terribly so. But it hurt. Worse though, that that it hurt even more afterwards! The pain was now focal, not the side of my hip but just one spot. Tuesday afternoon it hurt to even walk.
Skipped the Weds run, skipped the Thursday run. And here now it's Thursday. Still hurting, and going to play the weekend once I get to it.
Vol'd at the MT100 where my friends BR and AR had awesome races! I was surprised at the number of runners I knew, and who knew me. Makes me want to get more involved somehow.
The races were inspiring to watch, but also a little killer. Here I'm waiting to sign up for OT100 but can't until a few things are worked out, and my hip is only one of them.
While watching the Hobbit movie (finally!) Weds after the surgery I got an email that the Big D is going to pretrial the Monday after OT100! OFF ALL DAYS! So my initial plan of driving myself on Friday, staying until Monday is out. Now I'm back to finding a ride on Friday. There are two others who need a ride, so this should work out with 3 of us looking.
So I'm not signed up, glad I didn't Tuesday (in my last post that was my next action!), and I'm just waiting....
Tuesday, September 15, 2015
10x10 is DONE! 10 things I learned along the way
RUN 10 miles in 1:32, 9:13m/m pace
BIKE COMMUTE 6.4 miles
I woke up to the house alarm chirping for a power outage. This was kinda cool, all the streetlights out and the house quiet. I fixed my pre run meal under flashlight and realized I like the softer light in the kitchen that early. I was probably the only person enjoying this power outage. I delayed my run start a bit, thinking that although running without streetlights was different, it probably wasn't altogether safe where I run.
The next TJM episode wasn't on iTunes yet, but I did find it on the webpage and figured out how to play it for today's run. Yippee!! Otherwise..what would I have done? The only one I haven't listened to yet is the Bonus episode for CF's 200 miler. I was saving that for the end :)
"..it's the first thing I want to do when I go traveling...it's that idea that you never know what's around the corner or what's next". Scott
Wonderful quote for today! With so much going on in my life in the next three weeks, I really don't know what's around the corner for me, but this is a good reminder that not knowing can be a positive thing, not something to fear.
Today I followed my favorite TGP, around MoBot, then back again route. There was only one hang-up. For some reason I stopped the Garmin at a water fountain in TGP at 1hr and 6.6 miles. Usually I let Autopause handle this, so when I started up again I didn't even think about restarting it. So it wasn't until about a mile later I realized I hadn't heard the 7 mile beep...and SH!T....now what? My mind rambled at this --- do I use MapMyRun later to fill in the distance...how would I calculate my time...do I run back to get an accurate measurement, then fill in later....do I run my route back exactly so there's no guessing....it's surprising how much this bothered me. So much in fact, that I couldn't follow the podcast conversation for the next 10 mins. I decided to re-trace my route back carefully, then add on later from MapMyRun.
But as I got close to the house, I realized I wanted the Garmin to say "10.00" not some random number like 9.1 that I'd add a guesstimate onto later. So I continued running until it beeped for 10 miles. I figured that the 100 miler I was training for wasn't going to be exactly 100 miles either. Admittedly I did later go to MapMyRun to measure my lost distance -- 0.9 miles.
And lo and behold, the OT100 race is 100.9 miles!
IT'S A SIGN! I'm ready to sign up! Gonna do it later today, I'll post when I do it.
To conclude my Ten Jun Miles series, here are 10 things I learned:
1. This wasn't as hard as I thought it would be. I was certain that I'd be hurting by day 5 or 6, instead it wasn't until today when my right knee started up a vague ache. And I'm not as tired, physically or mentally, as I expected.
2. What I did outside of running made a difference. The first few days I didn't focus on post run hydration and sleeping. Once I committed to 8 hours of sleep a night and drinking a full liter of water with my BCAA and glutamine supplements I noticed that I recovered faster. One measure was how easy my post-run bike commute to work felt. Even today felt zippy-fresh. However, my constant stomach upset did impact my running, in the first few days when the symptoms were the worst I had my slowest 10 milers.
3. My pre-run nutrition is more flexible than I thought. I started with 0.5c egg whites, banana, and teaspoon of coconut oil -- my standard pre run brekkie. On a few days I tried some potato, some ground beef, an orange, or more coconut oil -- and didn't notice a difference. This was important to me because I want to know how food I can tolerate in my stomach for upcoming races.
4. In-run nutrition does make a difference. I stuck to my schedule of 50 minutes, so roughly halfway through each run I'd eat half a powerbar or a gel. And unlike other recent 10 milers, I didn't start to slow at the end due to declining energy. And powerbars are much more satisfying than a gel.
5. What I do in mile 40 will impact what happens in subsequent miles. This is one of TV's running rules: what you do NOW will directly impact your run in 30 minutes. So if you eat or drink now, you'll feel better later. So if I feel a blister coming on in run #4, I should stop and fix it not give myself the usual "HTFU and run". I should stop and see what I can do, because this booger of a blister hurt for the next 6 runs.
6. Ten miles ain't all that far, until you need to map an in-town route. Ugh, all the little turns, stops, waits, intersections, cars, road garbage... really the only benefit sometimes is that having to hop over broken sidewalks and curbs kinda simulates an urban trail. Eh, not really. Give me a trail or a park any day.
7. I love seeing other runners! Even though I ran alone for most of these, I was usually passing by other runners, cyclists, walkers, dogs, and hikers. I almost always give a smile and a "good morning!" and perk up getting a similar response. I figure I'm having fun running, so they are too. And most are! But boooooooo to those who ignore me or avert their eyes or find something just too interesting on their smart phone as I pass by. Really people, we're outdoors in the sun and it's gorgeous and you could at least acknowledge my presence.
8. Running is a great way to meet non-runners too. Especially on days I just wore compression socks and running clothes to work. Even on normal-clothes days, people ask about my running and racing, and I love talking about it. I also like encouraging the non-runners to do what they can or enjoy, and steer them away from comparing my running goals to their running dreams. I like to think I inspire at least a few, but in reality I probably scare them.
9. I'm not all that different, and I'm missing out so much, and I need to branch out more. Listening to the TJM podcast woke me up to how my fears, trepidations, problems, and hopes for running aren't all that different from other runners. They voiced the same things I'm thinking about: nutrition, DNFs, injury and illness. And they are doing more fun runs like pacing friends, volunteering, and non-training races. I rarely do anything like that and I'd like to. And by not being on the social media I'm missing out on so much news about friends and races and events. It's got me thinking I should over come that fear and at least give it a try. Haha, in #8 I said I like to encourage other people to try new things, and here I'm the one needing the encouragement!!
10. Run Gently Out There. I've found the source of my running quotes list, and now I'm out to get this book! That list was an inspiration for the Bee's Rules For Happiness, wow wonder if someday I'll write a book and other people will have the those hanging over their desk as inspiration?
BIKE COMMUTE 6.4 miles
I woke up to the house alarm chirping for a power outage. This was kinda cool, all the streetlights out and the house quiet. I fixed my pre run meal under flashlight and realized I like the softer light in the kitchen that early. I was probably the only person enjoying this power outage. I delayed my run start a bit, thinking that although running without streetlights was different, it probably wasn't altogether safe where I run.
The next TJM episode wasn't on iTunes yet, but I did find it on the webpage and figured out how to play it for today's run. Yippee!! Otherwise..what would I have done? The only one I haven't listened to yet is the Bonus episode for CF's 200 miler. I was saving that for the end :)
"..it's the first thing I want to do when I go traveling...it's that idea that you never know what's around the corner or what's next". Scott
Wonderful quote for today! With so much going on in my life in the next three weeks, I really don't know what's around the corner for me, but this is a good reminder that not knowing can be a positive thing, not something to fear.
Today I followed my favorite TGP, around MoBot, then back again route. There was only one hang-up. For some reason I stopped the Garmin at a water fountain in TGP at 1hr and 6.6 miles. Usually I let Autopause handle this, so when I started up again I didn't even think about restarting it. So it wasn't until about a mile later I realized I hadn't heard the 7 mile beep...and SH!T....now what? My mind rambled at this --- do I use MapMyRun later to fill in the distance...how would I calculate my time...do I run back to get an accurate measurement, then fill in later....do I run my route back exactly so there's no guessing....it's surprising how much this bothered me. So much in fact, that I couldn't follow the podcast conversation for the next 10 mins. I decided to re-trace my route back carefully, then add on later from MapMyRun.
But as I got close to the house, I realized I wanted the Garmin to say "10.00" not some random number like 9.1 that I'd add a guesstimate onto later. So I continued running until it beeped for 10 miles. I figured that the 100 miler I was training for wasn't going to be exactly 100 miles either. Admittedly I did later go to MapMyRun to measure my lost distance -- 0.9 miles.
And lo and behold, the OT100 race is 100.9 miles!
IT'S A SIGN! I'm ready to sign up! Gonna do it later today, I'll post when I do it.
To conclude my Ten Jun Miles series, here are 10 things I learned:
1. This wasn't as hard as I thought it would be. I was certain that I'd be hurting by day 5 or 6, instead it wasn't until today when my right knee started up a vague ache. And I'm not as tired, physically or mentally, as I expected.
2. What I did outside of running made a difference. The first few days I didn't focus on post run hydration and sleeping. Once I committed to 8 hours of sleep a night and drinking a full liter of water with my BCAA and glutamine supplements I noticed that I recovered faster. One measure was how easy my post-run bike commute to work felt. Even today felt zippy-fresh. However, my constant stomach upset did impact my running, in the first few days when the symptoms were the worst I had my slowest 10 milers.
3. My pre-run nutrition is more flexible than I thought. I started with 0.5c egg whites, banana, and teaspoon of coconut oil -- my standard pre run brekkie. On a few days I tried some potato, some ground beef, an orange, or more coconut oil -- and didn't notice a difference. This was important to me because I want to know how food I can tolerate in my stomach for upcoming races.
4. In-run nutrition does make a difference. I stuck to my schedule of 50 minutes, so roughly halfway through each run I'd eat half a powerbar or a gel. And unlike other recent 10 milers, I didn't start to slow at the end due to declining energy. And powerbars are much more satisfying than a gel.
5. What I do in mile 40 will impact what happens in subsequent miles. This is one of TV's running rules: what you do NOW will directly impact your run in 30 minutes. So if you eat or drink now, you'll feel better later. So if I feel a blister coming on in run #4, I should stop and fix it not give myself the usual "HTFU and run". I should stop and see what I can do, because this booger of a blister hurt for the next 6 runs.
6. Ten miles ain't all that far, until you need to map an in-town route. Ugh, all the little turns, stops, waits, intersections, cars, road garbage... really the only benefit sometimes is that having to hop over broken sidewalks and curbs kinda simulates an urban trail. Eh, not really. Give me a trail or a park any day.
7. I love seeing other runners! Even though I ran alone for most of these, I was usually passing by other runners, cyclists, walkers, dogs, and hikers. I almost always give a smile and a "good morning!" and perk up getting a similar response. I figure I'm having fun running, so they are too. And most are! But boooooooo to those who ignore me or avert their eyes or find something just too interesting on their smart phone as I pass by. Really people, we're outdoors in the sun and it's gorgeous and you could at least acknowledge my presence.
8. Running is a great way to meet non-runners too. Especially on days I just wore compression socks and running clothes to work. Even on normal-clothes days, people ask about my running and racing, and I love talking about it. I also like encouraging the non-runners to do what they can or enjoy, and steer them away from comparing my running goals to their running dreams. I like to think I inspire at least a few, but in reality I probably scare them.
9. I'm not all that different, and I'm missing out so much, and I need to branch out more. Listening to the TJM podcast woke me up to how my fears, trepidations, problems, and hopes for running aren't all that different from other runners. They voiced the same things I'm thinking about: nutrition, DNFs, injury and illness. And they are doing more fun runs like pacing friends, volunteering, and non-training races. I rarely do anything like that and I'd like to. And by not being on the social media I'm missing out on so much news about friends and races and events. It's got me thinking I should over come that fear and at least give it a try. Haha, in #8 I said I like to encourage other people to try new things, and here I'm the one needing the encouragement!!
10. Run Gently Out There. I've found the source of my running quotes list, and now I'm out to get this book! That list was an inspiration for the Bee's Rules For Happiness, wow wonder if someday I'll write a book and other people will have the those hanging over their desk as inspiration?
Monday, September 14, 2015
10x10 #9 midday in the park
RUN 10 miles in 1:28
BIKE COMMUTE 8.2 miles
So far my 10 mile runs have been early morning. This one was midday from work into FoPark. So much warmer and sunnier than most of the previous. Running in the midday is sometimes harder for me, I'm not as awake and I'm digesting brekkie. But that's how my day went, and in the end was the best thing for my still unhappy gut. Really gotta get that fixed, but the stress and to-do's and all else going on have me distracted.
I forgot to bring a hat or a headband, so my ear piece kept falling out. Ugh, annoying, but worth it to hear the podcast. I ran opposite the Thursday direction for variety, out to Wydown, turn around, then pack along the opposite edge of the park. This run felt really good, the caffeinated gel helped I'm sure.
"If you look good, they'll let you keep going." Kat to Scott regarding AS volunteers and race staff pulling you from a race.
Fitting quote for me this week, I'm hoping that if I look good for Wednesday's test they'll let me go early! But I doubt it...
Only one more 10-miler to go, and the next podcast isn't in iTunes yet. The FB page says it's published....where is it!?!
BIKE COMMUTE 8.2 miles
So far my 10 mile runs have been early morning. This one was midday from work into FoPark. So much warmer and sunnier than most of the previous. Running in the midday is sometimes harder for me, I'm not as awake and I'm digesting brekkie. But that's how my day went, and in the end was the best thing for my still unhappy gut. Really gotta get that fixed, but the stress and to-do's and all else going on have me distracted.
I forgot to bring a hat or a headband, so my ear piece kept falling out. Ugh, annoying, but worth it to hear the podcast. I ran opposite the Thursday direction for variety, out to Wydown, turn around, then pack along the opposite edge of the park. This run felt really good, the caffeinated gel helped I'm sure.
"If you look good, they'll let you keep going." Kat to Scott regarding AS volunteers and race staff pulling you from a race.
Fitting quote for me this week, I'm hoping that if I look good for Wednesday's test they'll let me go early! But I doubt it...
Only one more 10-miler to go, and the next podcast isn't in iTunes yet. The FB page says it's published....where is it!?!
Sunday, September 13, 2015
10x10 #8 Fast intervals on Grants
RUN 10 miles in 1:25!
My initial plan for today was to do a 10 Churches run, after my Friday run through the city areas I wanted to go back and see more of the churches I passed. To let my stomach calm a bit (still upset!) I mapped out this winding route to Soulard, then south, then west, to pass historic churches. But it was getting contrived, like I was trying too hard to make this route and I wasn't excited about it in the end.
So I ended up picking Grant's trail. Booooring, I know, flat, straight, goes nowhere, but I could do intervals. I wasn't excited about getting back in the truck for more driving after yesterday's trip to Rockwoods, then to Innsbrook, but gotta do errands anyway today, might as well roll them together.
I haven't run GT in awhile, and since my last visit these nice half mile and mile signs have been added. At least I don't remember seeing them before. I warmed up in the first mile, warmed up enough that I regretted the long sleeve T shirt (sounded like a good idea early this morning before my tummy and mapping delays!), starting at an easy pace. Then at the next mile went for a "pushed" pace, slightly above comfortable. Then alternated comfy and pushed until mile 10. I have the numbers written down somewhere but I can't find that stupid little piece of paper...
My comfy miles were in the mid-high 8's, my pushed miles were low 8's and the last one at 7:44! Yahooooooo! That last mile was easy to speed up once I realized I could make this my faster 10-miler yet in this challenge.
While walking the dog and debating whether or not I'd do the 10 churches route, I thought that if I didn't, the TJM podcast would have some great religious or church quote that would have fit the run perfectly. Sure enough, it did! haha! But I picked another one instead, as that quote was specific for the AC100 race.
"The 100 for ultra runners, it feels like our vision quest, heading out into the dark unknown and facing the things we're most afraid of." Jimmy Dean Freeman.
My initial plan for today was to do a 10 Churches run, after my Friday run through the city areas I wanted to go back and see more of the churches I passed. To let my stomach calm a bit (still upset!) I mapped out this winding route to Soulard, then south, then west, to pass historic churches. But it was getting contrived, like I was trying too hard to make this route and I wasn't excited about it in the end.
So I ended up picking Grant's trail. Booooring, I know, flat, straight, goes nowhere, but I could do intervals. I wasn't excited about getting back in the truck for more driving after yesterday's trip to Rockwoods, then to Innsbrook, but gotta do errands anyway today, might as well roll them together.
I haven't run GT in awhile, and since my last visit these nice half mile and mile signs have been added. At least I don't remember seeing them before. I warmed up in the first mile, warmed up enough that I regretted the long sleeve T shirt (sounded like a good idea early this morning before my tummy and mapping delays!), starting at an easy pace. Then at the next mile went for a "pushed" pace, slightly above comfortable. Then alternated comfy and pushed until mile 10. I have the numbers written down somewhere but I can't find that stupid little piece of paper...
My comfy miles were in the mid-high 8's, my pushed miles were low 8's and the last one at 7:44! Yahooooooo! That last mile was easy to speed up once I realized I could make this my faster 10-miler yet in this challenge.
While walking the dog and debating whether or not I'd do the 10 churches route, I thought that if I didn't, the TJM podcast would have some great religious or church quote that would have fit the run perfectly. Sure enough, it did! haha! But I picked another one instead, as that quote was specific for the AC100 race.
"The 100 for ultra runners, it feels like our vision quest, heading out into the dark unknown and facing the things we're most afraid of." Jimmy Dean Freeman.
Saturday, September 12, 2015
10x10 #7 Rockwoods
RUN 10 miles in 2hrs, finally some trails!
My stomach was NOT doing good this morning, so this was one of those "omg when will I be done" type of runs. This will likely be the only trail run in this challenge, and also the only one I do with TV. We started out around 8am, with the plan that I'd stop at 10 miles and TV would continue on his own, getting a ride home from his wife.
It was a pretty, sunny, and CHILLY morning! Fall is just around the corner, but I didn't wear long sleeves, I knew it would warm up. We looped out on a short but technical trail, then turned around to repeat it in the other direction, then rounded out the miles on another trail.
I hated to stop at only 10 miles, but that's part of the challenge. And given my blurpy tummy, stopping wasn't all that hard to do...ugh, I hate it when my tummy does this! And it's been doing it a lot this past week.
"I think it means how you treat yourself...take what the day gives you and have serenity about it..." Scott, discussing the meaning of Run Gently Out There.
My stomach was NOT doing good this morning, so this was one of those "omg when will I be done" type of runs. This will likely be the only trail run in this challenge, and also the only one I do with TV. We started out around 8am, with the plan that I'd stop at 10 miles and TV would continue on his own, getting a ride home from his wife.
It was a pretty, sunny, and CHILLY morning! Fall is just around the corner, but I didn't wear long sleeves, I knew it would warm up. We looped out on a short but technical trail, then turned around to repeat it in the other direction, then rounded out the miles on another trail.
I hated to stop at only 10 miles, but that's part of the challenge. And given my blurpy tummy, stopping wasn't all that hard to do...ugh, I hate it when my tummy does this! And it's been doing it a lot this past week.
"I think it means how you treat yourself...take what the day gives you and have serenity about it..." Scott, discussing the meaning of Run Gently Out There.
Friday, September 11, 2015
10x10 #6 10 miles and 10 parks
RUN 10 miles in 1:38
Today was a 10 park tour of St Louis! After some simple MMR planning, this is what I came up with:
Compton Hill, Terry, Eads, Lafayette, Soulard, Pontiac Square, Lyon, Cherokee, Benton, Fremont, Fox. Wait...that's 11!
On the way I missed Soulard Park, I didn't know exactly what intersection it was at. I thought it was on my right, but that looked like church grounds. Then as I passed near the Soulard farmer's market, it occurred to me that that could be the park, but I thought it was supposed to be on my right....so I kept going. Then happily I found another park along I-55 (can't remember the name....Aboussie...something like that) and when I saw the sign I even crossed the street to run through it!
This path led me very pretty streets that I've never seen before! Brick row houses, tree lined streets, history, wonderful!!
I didn't see the horses at the brewery, enjoyed the smell at first until it went from brewing to "spewing" smell (like old spilled beer). Lyon Park was winding hilly fun. But as I wound up the hill from Lyon I passed a bed n brekkie named Clydesdale cottage, so I got see horses as little statues at the front step.
And found an awesome water fountain in Pontiac. NICE arc of water from one of the usually dribbly bubblers.
Today was originally going be the day I move! I ran by my new house, down spout still not fixed?!
Quote is from Kat's Kudos, very fitting for this run! "...we need to do more of that, where we use running as activity to enjoy our surroundings rather than just having these data driven goals..."
Today was a 10 park tour of St Louis! After some simple MMR planning, this is what I came up with:
Compton Hill, Terry, Eads, Lafayette, Soulard, Pontiac Square, Lyon, Cherokee, Benton, Fremont, Fox. Wait...that's 11!
On the way I missed Soulard Park, I didn't know exactly what intersection it was at. I thought it was on my right, but that looked like church grounds. Then as I passed near the Soulard farmer's market, it occurred to me that that could be the park, but I thought it was supposed to be on my right....so I kept going. Then happily I found another park along I-55 (can't remember the name....Aboussie...something like that) and when I saw the sign I even crossed the street to run through it!
This path led me very pretty streets that I've never seen before! Brick row houses, tree lined streets, history, wonderful!!
I didn't see the horses at the brewery, enjoyed the smell at first until it went from brewing to "spewing" smell (like old spilled beer). Lyon Park was winding hilly fun. But as I wound up the hill from Lyon I passed a bed n brekkie named Clydesdale cottage, so I got see horses as little statues at the front step.
And found an awesome water fountain in Pontiac. NICE arc of water from one of the usually dribbly bubblers.
Today was originally going be the day I move! I ran by my new house, down spout still not fixed?!
Quote is from Kat's Kudos, very fitting for this run! "...we need to do more of that, where we use running as activity to enjoy our surroundings rather than just having these data driven goals..."
Thursday, September 10, 2015
10x10 #5 WHOOP for the group!
RUN 10 miles in 1:26, last mile 8:07 m/m
BIKE COMMUTE 6.4 miles
Holy cow, go-go-go with the group! I thought for sure I'd drop off the back or slow down, but I we did the first 7 miles in 1:01, then I challenged myself to hold the roughly 8:35m/m pace for the last three on my own. And SCORE! Esp that last mile :)
It helps that my stomach is finally back to normal, first day since Saturday. No gas, pains, nutrition upsets, or worry. Or maybe it was the Kombucha I'm drinking? Yes! My 'bootch was tested last night and this morning. I was already considering have ginger beer for my post OT treat, now I'm wondering about having 'bootch in my drop bags! The non-alcoholic brew of course :)
What didn't help was yesterday's "Oh HTFU it's just a blister" mentality that left with me a small but deep blister to contend with for the following 6 runs! Today I switched back to the 14's and put 2 more pieces of thick tape over the bandage. Duh. Didn't hurt with this set up and taller socks.
Not only did I feel good during the run, but also afterwards. I bounced back to the truck, walked the dog just fine, and my bike commute was smooth. I'm slowly degrading as the day goes by -- wearing compression socks and shorts today -- but I still feel good.
I'm recovering with a scoop each of BCAA and glutamine in diluted tea, today in a liter of water. That's gotta help. Pre-run nutrition is banana, 8T egg whites, and 1/2T butter.
Scoping the OT100 logistics, Getting Serious!
Today's TJM podcast was played after the run, wasn't going to lose out on my social news and chatter :)
"...it's not fucking easy, it is difficult, it is a whole mental game, and it is 26 weeks of grueling training that really changes a person's personality..." guest Jen, talking about running a 100.
BIKE COMMUTE 6.4 miles
Holy cow, go-go-go with the group! I thought for sure I'd drop off the back or slow down, but I we did the first 7 miles in 1:01, then I challenged myself to hold the roughly 8:35m/m pace for the last three on my own. And SCORE! Esp that last mile :)
It helps that my stomach is finally back to normal, first day since Saturday. No gas, pains, nutrition upsets, or worry. Or maybe it was the Kombucha I'm drinking? Yes! My 'bootch was tested last night and this morning. I was already considering have ginger beer for my post OT treat, now I'm wondering about having 'bootch in my drop bags! The non-alcoholic brew of course :)
What didn't help was yesterday's "Oh HTFU it's just a blister" mentality that left with me a small but deep blister to contend with for the following 6 runs! Today I switched back to the 14's and put 2 more pieces of thick tape over the bandage. Duh. Didn't hurt with this set up and taller socks.
Not only did I feel good during the run, but also afterwards. I bounced back to the truck, walked the dog just fine, and my bike commute was smooth. I'm slowly degrading as the day goes by -- wearing compression socks and shorts today -- but I still feel good.
I'm recovering with a scoop each of BCAA and glutamine in diluted tea, today in a liter of water. That's gotta help. Pre-run nutrition is banana, 8T egg whites, and 1/2T butter.
Scoping the OT100 logistics, Getting Serious!
Today's TJM podcast was played after the run, wasn't going to lose out on my social news and chatter :)
"...it's not fucking easy, it is difficult, it is a whole mental game, and it is 26 weeks of grueling training that really changes a person's personality..." guest Jen, talking about running a 100.
Wednesday, September 9, 2015
10x10 #4 Light rain!
RUN 10 miles in 1:40
BIKE COMMUTE 6.4 miles
"What it is that makes someone ready to run a 100 miles?" -- Kat
"...Visa or Mastercard..." -- guest Amanda Ep 6.
This run also started in the dark, but unlike yesterday there was light rain! My legs didn't feel as trashed like yesterday either, but I did focus on an easier pace today. Loved seeing rain drops hanging from the tree leaves, the early fall of brown leaves from the trees, and the slow but steady sunrise as the morning progresses.
Debut of my new shoes! Black with lotus and salmon. Interesting colors names by Brooks. This is the model that everyone says to go up a size, but I didn't have to -- I'm still a size 8. So I was somewhat apprehensive about going out the door for 10 miles with potentially the wrong size. But they felt good in the store and they still feel good. Aside from the bloodied blister on the inside of my left ankle from the shoes rubbing. Can't blame just the shoes, they are low cut socks. And ironically, my "no blister" socks!
And for the last two days, my legs are really swollen by afternoon and evening. Too much salt? I'm terribly thirsty, so probably out of balance.
No focal pain or hints of injury, aside from a tight feeling in a connective tissue in the left foot big toe, but that's been ongoing. Keep wondering how I'm going to do the next 6 days. Still excited about it, tomorrow is half way there and I'll have company for that run :) Unfortunately, no podcast while running with friends, or maybe only in the 3-4 miles I'll run alone.
Today's quote is a nice follow up from yesterday's realization that I'm thinking about OT100 as my 2nd hundred when I haven't even signed up yet! So....DO IT! I'm sure Visa will approve!
Funny how when I'm listening to a podcast, if my mind wanders off I really don't hear what they are saying. Tune it out completely.
Great morning, focused more on comfort (camelbak for water and phone, not hands), hydration (refilled the handheld), and pace. I stretch my arms and back out every mile at least. Also, I'm eating half a powerbar at 50 mins on these days, haven't mentioned that yet.
BIKE COMMUTE 6.4 miles
"What it is that makes someone ready to run a 100 miles?" -- Kat
"...Visa or Mastercard..." -- guest Amanda Ep 6.
This run also started in the dark, but unlike yesterday there was light rain! My legs didn't feel as trashed like yesterday either, but I did focus on an easier pace today. Loved seeing rain drops hanging from the tree leaves, the early fall of brown leaves from the trees, and the slow but steady sunrise as the morning progresses.
Debut of my new shoes! Black with lotus and salmon. Interesting colors names by Brooks. This is the model that everyone says to go up a size, but I didn't have to -- I'm still a size 8. So I was somewhat apprehensive about going out the door for 10 miles with potentially the wrong size. But they felt good in the store and they still feel good. Aside from the bloodied blister on the inside of my left ankle from the shoes rubbing. Can't blame just the shoes, they are low cut socks. And ironically, my "no blister" socks!
And for the last two days, my legs are really swollen by afternoon and evening. Too much salt? I'm terribly thirsty, so probably out of balance.
No focal pain or hints of injury, aside from a tight feeling in a connective tissue in the left foot big toe, but that's been ongoing. Keep wondering how I'm going to do the next 6 days. Still excited about it, tomorrow is half way there and I'll have company for that run :) Unfortunately, no podcast while running with friends, or maybe only in the 3-4 miles I'll run alone.
Today's quote is a nice follow up from yesterday's realization that I'm thinking about OT100 as my 2nd hundred when I haven't even signed up yet! So....DO IT! I'm sure Visa will approve!
Funny how when I'm listening to a podcast, if my mind wanders off I really don't hear what they are saying. Tune it out completely.
Great morning, focused more on comfort (camelbak for water and phone, not hands), hydration (refilled the handheld), and pace. I stretch my arms and back out every mile at least. Also, I'm eating half a powerbar at 50 mins on these days, haven't mentioned that yet.
Tuesday, September 8, 2015
10x10 #3
RUN 10 miles in 1:36
BIKE COMMUTE 6.4 miles
"I like the idea that with running you can put a lot of effort and hard work into it and if you're focused on your goal you can climb the ladder...If you work really hard you can accomplish something". Aaron, talking about Boston, Episode 5.
Hot and sweaty run that started in the dark! Had to be done in time for HVAC repairs guy, even though he was 2 hours late...
Energy wasn't great and legs were slightly trashed. I really should start foam rolling and stretching more right now. I expected my legs to feel like this on day 5-7, not day 3.
Realized while running past the MoBot around mile 3-4 that I was thinking a lot about Poto 100 in 2016. The podcast talks about it a lot, keeps it on the brain. Then realized I was thinking about it as my third hundred miler!! I haven't even signed up for OT100 yet!
Stomach still upset from weekend, gassy, heavy, couple of "oh boy is that gas...?" moments. I'm re-setting with the SCD for a few days. Of all weeks for having to do that! Should only be a few days.
BIKE COMMUTE 6.4 miles
"I like the idea that with running you can put a lot of effort and hard work into it and if you're focused on your goal you can climb the ladder...If you work really hard you can accomplish something". Aaron, talking about Boston, Episode 5.
Hot and sweaty run that started in the dark! Had to be done in time for HVAC repairs guy, even though he was 2 hours late...
Energy wasn't great and legs were slightly trashed. I really should start foam rolling and stretching more right now. I expected my legs to feel like this on day 5-7, not day 3.
Realized while running past the MoBot around mile 3-4 that I was thinking a lot about Poto 100 in 2016. The podcast talks about it a lot, keeps it on the brain. Then realized I was thinking about it as my third hundred miler!! I haven't even signed up for OT100 yet!
Stomach still upset from weekend, gassy, heavy, couple of "oh boy is that gas...?" moments. I'm re-setting with the SCD for a few days. Of all weeks for having to do that! Should only be a few days.
Sabotage
So while you sit back and wonder why I got this fucking thorn in my side Oh my Good, it's a mirage I'm tellin' y'all it's a sabotage
Monday, September 7, 2015
10x10 #2
RUN 10 miles in 1:32, with the JCC 5k at the end.
"...that if you want to do something that sounds crazy to other people that [you] can do it. And not to listen to other people. Listen to what you want to do and follow that. And if it's really difficult, all the better". Chuck S after finishing the 2015 Potawatomi 200 miler, Episode 4.
This run started by following the JCC 10K course, then joining up with LC's wedding shower group :), then we did the 5K course together. TH and LC podiumed!! :)
The 5K is famously hilly. And, it's the same 5K I ran waaaaaaaay back in 2003 or 2004. The 2nd 5K I ever ran, and my legs were so trashed by the end that they didn't wait a day or two to hurt -- they hurt on the way home!
"...that if you want to do something that sounds crazy to other people that [you] can do it. And not to listen to other people. Listen to what you want to do and follow that. And if it's really difficult, all the better". Chuck S after finishing the 2015 Potawatomi 200 miler, Episode 4.
This run started by following the JCC 10K course, then joining up with LC's wedding shower group :), then we did the 5K course together. TH and LC podiumed!! :)
The 5K is famously hilly. And, it's the same 5K I ran waaaaaaaay back in 2003 or 2004. The 2nd 5K I ever ran, and my legs were so trashed by the end that they didn't wait a day or two to hurt -- they hurt on the way home!
Sunday, September 6, 2015
10x10 #1
RUN 10 miles in 1:34
"What I really like about ultra running is the process, of being scared, doing something that's really hard, being in that dark place and then overcoming all that". Scottie Episode 3
So begins my TJM inspired 10 days of 10 miles. I'll pick a quote from each podcast for each run.
This run was from home, simple up the road, out-n-back by the school, over the big hill until turn around time, then back again. My math was awful, I kept making it harder than it needed to be!
Tried Necco wafers that Mom had. They were Meh. Then I read the ingredients: gums!! DAMMIT.
My stomach was heavy, gassy, unhappy. Too much butternut squash yesterday :(
"What I really like about ultra running is the process, of being scared, doing something that's really hard, being in that dark place and then overcoming all that". Scottie Episode 3
So begins my TJM inspired 10 days of 10 miles. I'll pick a quote from each podcast for each run.
This run was from home, simple up the road, out-n-back by the school, over the big hill until turn around time, then back again. My math was awful, I kept making it harder than it needed to be!
Tried Necco wafers that Mom had. They were Meh. Then I read the ingredients: gums!! DAMMIT.
My stomach was heavy, gassy, unhappy. Too much butternut squash yesterday :(
Saturday, September 5, 2015
Friday and Saturday rest
Nothing!
Drove home after an errand-filled Friday morning -- vet, boarding, attorney, work, recycling, ... no bank...then to the house to pack and leave!
Saturday I was anxious and stressy. Ate terribly and set my stomach off on a wild ride. Not bad symptoms, but long lasting and a painful reminder of how it would be should I keep slipping.
Drove home after an errand-filled Friday morning -- vet, boarding, attorney, work, recycling, ... no bank...then to the house to pack and leave!
Saturday I was anxious and stressy. Ate terribly and set my stomach off on a wild ride. Not bad symptoms, but long lasting and a painful reminder of how it would be should I keep slipping.
Thursday, September 3, 2015
Warm Thursday run
RUN 7.1 miles in 60 mins, with a finish line fartlek with CS
BIKE COMMUTE 6.4 miles
Writing this on Tuesday of the following week, I've been busy!
This was a great run, remember being sticky and wet from sweat when finished. That finish run with CS felt amazing, didn't think I could do it but it felt wonderful.
Oh, and my upper left quads on the outside of my leg/hip hurt after the run. But not since.
BIKE COMMUTE 6.4 miles
Writing this on Tuesday of the following week, I've been busy!
This was a great run, remember being sticky and wet from sweat when finished. That finish run with CS felt amazing, didn't think I could do it but it felt wonderful.
Oh, and my upper left quads on the outside of my leg/hip hurt after the run. But not since.
Wednesday, September 2, 2015
You can do it with the right approach and mindset
RUN 10 miles in 1:37, I think about a 9:37m/m
BIKE COMMUTE 6.4 miles
This is a rest week, I'm supposed to be resting. So in that spirit I'm not run commuting to work today. It would have messed my schedule up anyway. Had to drop the doggie at the vet, and have to pick her up again later today. Running in and back, in the 94F heat, on top of everything else...not restful.
After a silly brekkie of eggs, banana, peanut butter omelette (more like a soggy roll) I walked said doggie, then took off for "only" 10 miles. Lately I've been doing 14 or 16 on Wednesdays, so this is 'resting'?
My brain was churning after some wild ass dreams so I took the phone for some podcasting. I decided on TJM Episode 1, sort of an into to my upcoming 10 days x 10 miles stretch that starts this Sunday. The guest said the title quote -- that with the right approach and mindset you can do anything. I'm taking that into my 10 x 10 stretch. I'm somewhat apprehensive about the lack of rest in a 10 day series. Gotta be sure to mix it up, plan ahead, and don't let it get mental.
Keep debating an email to TJM, tell then what I'm doing and how I plan to run it to the podcasts. But I'm too private of a person I guess. Don't want to hear about it in one of their episodes, don't want to load it to Strava, etc. Same reason I'm not doing the WashU MoveIt challenge, don't want my stuff analyzed or tracked I guess.
Well anyway. Back to the run. It was my usual out-n-back to TGP with a MoBot loop for distance. Seemed to take a long time, just didn't have the spark to go any faster. Very distracted with things maybe? Mom's surgery, doggie to the vet, upcoming trip home, on top of the house and Disney goings-ons. That and I always seem more tired in a rest week?! Like I'm mentally living out the "your're tired" part of the training plan?
And I think I've convinced myself to skip the 4 miles extra I'd need to run to hit the training plan goal of 36 miles. How crazy is that?! If I run 7 as per usual tomorrow, skip Friday and Saturday, then run the 1st 10 x 10 Sunday, I'll go into the stretch on a great rest. Running 4 miles on Saturday won't make a hoot of a difference come race day!
BIKE COMMUTE 6.4 miles
This is a rest week, I'm supposed to be resting. So in that spirit I'm not run commuting to work today. It would have messed my schedule up anyway. Had to drop the doggie at the vet, and have to pick her up again later today. Running in and back, in the 94F heat, on top of everything else...not restful.
After a silly brekkie of eggs, banana, peanut butter omelette (more like a soggy roll) I walked said doggie, then took off for "only" 10 miles. Lately I've been doing 14 or 16 on Wednesdays, so this is 'resting'?
My brain was churning after some wild ass dreams so I took the phone for some podcasting. I decided on TJM Episode 1, sort of an into to my upcoming 10 days x 10 miles stretch that starts this Sunday. The guest said the title quote -- that with the right approach and mindset you can do anything. I'm taking that into my 10 x 10 stretch. I'm somewhat apprehensive about the lack of rest in a 10 day series. Gotta be sure to mix it up, plan ahead, and don't let it get mental.
Keep debating an email to TJM, tell then what I'm doing and how I plan to run it to the podcasts. But I'm too private of a person I guess. Don't want to hear about it in one of their episodes, don't want to load it to Strava, etc. Same reason I'm not doing the WashU MoveIt challenge, don't want my stuff analyzed or tracked I guess.
Well anyway. Back to the run. It was my usual out-n-back to TGP with a MoBot loop for distance. Seemed to take a long time, just didn't have the spark to go any faster. Very distracted with things maybe? Mom's surgery, doggie to the vet, upcoming trip home, on top of the house and Disney goings-ons. That and I always seem more tired in a rest week?! Like I'm mentally living out the "your're tired" part of the training plan?
And I think I've convinced myself to skip the 4 miles extra I'd need to run to hit the training plan goal of 36 miles. How crazy is that?! If I run 7 as per usual tomorrow, skip Friday and Saturday, then run the 1st 10 x 10 Sunday, I'll go into the stretch on a great rest. Running 4 miles on Saturday won't make a hoot of a difference come race day!
Tuesday, September 1, 2015
Sun coming up later, fall around the corner
RUN 5 miles in 47:30
BIKE COMMUTE 6.4 miles
Used to be just a few weeks ago leaving the house at 6am meant some sunlight. Not so these days, now it's darker out and will only be getting darker! Boo!
Good run, flat energy and not a lot of spark. A reminder to take rest week seriously this week.
Noticing a few things lately besides the flat energy. My skin is dry and I seem to be losing more hair in the shower? So subjective, but keep an eye on it.
BIKE COMMUTE 6.4 miles
Used to be just a few weeks ago leaving the house at 6am meant some sunlight. Not so these days, now it's darker out and will only be getting darker! Boo!
Good run, flat energy and not a lot of spark. A reminder to take rest week seriously this week.
Noticing a few things lately besides the flat energy. My skin is dry and I seem to be losing more hair in the shower? So subjective, but keep an eye on it.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)