Never Underestimate Adrenaline-- or Your Husband

So we did it!! YaHOO! Mark and I ran the Bear Lake Marathon yesterday. So... here's how it went- I wish you could all hear Mark tell it live- he's the best story teller and everything is so funny when he tells it... anyway..

We got up way early and headed to Garden City (about 20 minutes away from my parent's summer home in St. Charles) and boarded a bus full of a bunch of buff people- old and young- but all of them looked like they were in great shape. As Mark and I started talking to them we got more and more nervous... "Ah, you've done how many??? Working toward one in each state??Sheeesh!!" We were beginning to feel a little out of our league. I honestly thought I was going to throw up right before we started... which would've been too bad considering there were no potties at the starting line... what's up with that? A bunch of guys AND girls- mind you- just went for it in the sage brush and no one seemed to mind, either. What a world these runners live in!

So here's the difference between me and my hubby. I've trained pretty faithfully for six months-I never missed a long run, I've done a little research, bought some gear, got advice from as many marathoners as possible, etc.. Mark has gone running MAYBE ten times over six months, hasn't really done any research or honing down on his favorite techniques, etc... The most he'd run before yesterday in one day was 8 miles.... So needless to say, I was a bit concerned for him. I was worried he was going to really hurt himself or have to quit because of the pain or something- um, NO!!! After a little potty break I took, who do I see in front of me?, going a pretty decent pace I might add? My hubby... just trekking along with his mp3 player. Yeah, I had to work to catch up.. and he would've beat me had it been a half marathon. Anyway, long story short... I was able to run the entire time- except for through the aide stations (running and drinking isn't a skill I possess I just end up choking) and when I called my mom at 5 miles from the finish. Can I just tell you how excited I was to see the signs "2 more miles" "1 more mile" AH!!! I pretty much picked up the pace that last half mile... I felt like I was sprinting, but when you've been running about a 12 minute mile it probably wasn't really sprinting. Regardless, I was like yelling, "26.2 miles baby!" and "yay!!" and I jumped over the finish line all excited and elated- I was!!! I was so happy to have done it, to have accomplished my goal of running a marathon! Yeah! So my daddy was there... I love him so much! He was so proud of me and was telling me to get food and water and stretch for a minute.. There were so many nice people there. The guy that's trying to run a marathon in every state told my dad how I was a "tough cookie" going up this four mile incline and not stopping once- I don't really remember what he's talking about, but I go pretty brain dead after running for so long... anyway, that was really nice. So my dad and I decided to go try and find Mark to cheer him on the rest of the way, well, unfortunately, the path looped around for the last 2 miles, and he was closer to being done than expected, so we totally missed him and he just went home. I was so bummed! I missed his finish at our 10 k too. That's what I get for underestimating him. Oh well, he did it! And he came in a mere 30 minutes behind me... that bum! Could you imagine if he actually trained? He is pretty achy today and he had cramps in his legs the last 10 or so but he did it! What a natural athlete. He does hike a lot and play ball so I think that helped him. He also was probably blessed for all the early hours of watching Sawyer while I went running or to the gym... I really don't know how I would've been able to train without him and his flexible schedule.

I am so proud of him. After telling a guy on the bus that this was our first one he warned us that it's addicting... we were so happy afterward and elated to have accomplished our goal that I can see how it might be.
I did have a pretty bad tummy ache afterward- I think from all the gu and it's sugar and caffeine that my body's not used to- yeah, I probably should've gone easy on that, but all in all, we had a great experience. The race had such a different feel than all the other long runs I've done. It went by so much faster(even though we ran from about 6:45 to noon).. that adrenaline is something, isn't it? It was s uch a fun thing to do together. We're still so pumped and happy that we can just relax up here in Idaho for a few more days... thanks to my parents letting us stay at their house. They really took care of us and little Sawyer. I was so glad they were able to actually come up and watch. My whole life they've always made it to my special events... and there were so many games, track meets, concerts... wow! and they've been so supportive. I have the best parents ever!!

a final summary

Even though Brent pretty much summed things up, I wanted to do it again, complete with photos taken from more detailed posts that you can see here, here, here, and here. So why yet another post, you ask?? Because we ran a marathon, that's why! And the marathon blog, of all places, should have it documented. Plus, I wanted to pass along some tips to April, who will be running the Bear Lake Marathon in only a few weeks.

Tip #1: Run with Dana. If she's not available, then latch on to some other person keeping your same approximate pace and tell yourself that you won't walk if they won't. A running partner rules!

Tip #2: Keep 5 Gu packets handy. This really helped me stay energized during the race (another tip I gleaned from Dana).

Tip #3: Bodyglide. Enough said.

Tip #4: At around mile 20, you may start to have an out-of-body experience (aka: "I'm not sure how my legs are still moving, but they are"). Keep going!

Tip #5: After it's all over, you may feel sort of blah ("yeah, yeah, I ran a marathon. Now let's find some lunch asap!") But rest assured, your mood will pick up the following day ("Boo-Ya! I ran a marathon, baby!")

Anyway, congrats again guys! And good luck April!!!

Brent approaches the finish

Dana & Lacy cross the line

Way to go, Jamie!

I almost forgot Tip #6: eat a Creamcicle immediately afterward

I'm thinking this is the new Paula Radcliffe shot... (see Marathon Mom pic to the right)!!!

I was thinking back to Chicago (Oct 2007) when Dave and I watched hoards of people pick up their marathon packets for the race the following day. I remember thinking that they looked just like regular people--not particularly buff and/or skinny--and that if they could run a marathon, so could I!

So to all of you who are wanting to someday run one--trust me: if we can do it, so can you!

help!

So, I haven't run a single mile since the marathon. At first it was for the sake of recovering. Now I just can't find the motivation. Am I the only one with this problem???

Goodbye Puffy Blue Jacket... Goodbye

So yesterday when I ran with Jann (hee hee.. I love an accidental rhyme..) anyway, I ditched my puffy blue life-preserver jacket that I've worn on all my long runs. It was perfect for the winter training but is now a little much for the weather. The zipper pockets on this baby are perfect for all my gear and it never chaffed me up of course. I got it at the Gold Mine-- a thrift store in Hailey, Idaho-- and never really used it that much until I started running. It was a jem.. Anyway, I ditched it at some stop sign figuring I would go back and get it later... well, since I didn't really want to move for the rest of the night it just didn't happen. Today I drove around looking for it and she was no where to be seen. I'm sure she's still out there, but we were on roads I don't know and my brain is oatmeal while I'm running.
Oh... after checking my voicemail at 2 am.. after a long session of catching up on everyone's blogs, I got this message from Jann saying that her "garmin" or something (it's a GPS watch that tells you how far you've ran) was accidentally turned off so we went 21 miles by the time we got home instead of 18 like we thought. I actually planned on going another 2 miles so she was calling to tell me it wasn't necessary.. but of course I got it a little too late. I was so excited I did a cheerleader kick. Too bad I was so stiff it was barely past 90 degrees and my back was all hunched over (flashback from cheerleading tryout days... huh Lace..) Yay! I'm really relieved because I hit a major wall at around mile 16... which was actually mile 19 so that makes so much more sense. Anyway, I'm really pleased it turned out that way so there's less of a jump on the big day.
Also, Jann thinks she might know where puffy blue is... so maybe there's still hope!!

Last Long Run Before the BIG day!!

So thanks so much for your encouragement and advice everybody--especially to Brent for the last comment- I realized that there are quite a few things I was neglecting to do-- hydrate myself-electrolytes--all that. Oops!
So for my last 20 miler I went with a girl from my ward who ran the Salt Lake City Marathon and she booked it!!! She's one of tiny speedy runner girls...whoa! It really helped push me. I had to walk some of it and she was so patient. It really helped to have a running partner for the first time. I also got some actual running shoes...Mizimos or something and I LOVE them!! I brought gu and those shot blocks... I perfer the gu- and wore non-cotton clothes... yeah, that helped a lot!!
Jann, who I ran with brought a camelback which helped a lot too!! So many things were better about this run. We talked the whole time, got started earlier in the day, and the pace was quick so it really did go by faster. I was glad to hear the advice to walk if you need to. I always feel so guilty for doing it but my body has to sometimes.
I'm wondering that if after awhile my tailbone, hips, knees, and ankles will stop aching if I keep running? I think I'm not stretching enough or something. My muscles are fine- I rarely have sore muscles, but my joints get so achy. I've already noticed it getting a lot better with my arch supports and with taking glucosomine sulfate. I'm so relieved today is over!!! Any advice for the last bit of training or the Big day is really appreciated. Thanks!

19 miles and the meltdown...

So two Saturdays ago I ran 19 miles.. my farthest to date. I actually really enjoyed the first 16. I ran up from the mouth of the canyon to the end of south fork (9 miles uphill- gulp) and then on the way back I was doing fine until just the very end when I started thinking maybe this whole marathon idea wasn't such a great one. Anyway, I finished up not at 20 miles like I'd hoped, but I finished nonetheless- hooray! So I'm really excited to hear about you all and the marathon.. I just need to stay inspired for 4 more weeks, but man! I'm struggling. Saturday will be my 20-22 miler... yikes!! It's okay... it's going to be awesome...it's going to be okay... I have to keep reassuring myself.

It was so good to see you Lacey and to meet Dave and little Peeps. She is SOOO cute with her super blonde hair and blue eyes. What a little darling! I'm so proud of you! Way to stick to a goal until it's accomplished. Hopefully in a month I'll be giving you all the details of my Bear Lake Marathon. Keep you posted.

By the by, I want to hear everyone's advice for me and Mark... Let us know all your secrets to success! I also want to hear what everyone will be tackling after this big adventure- so keep a postin' if you can!!

Success!

Lacy, Dana, Jamie Lee (and me)...we made it! I'm forced to rely on others for photographic evidence, so hopefully that will be forthcoming soon.

Meanwhile, lemme just say the course was beautiful, the atmosphere was great, the weather was warm, and we had a great time.

I don't know if you want a play-by-play, because I could sum it up thusly: We ran, and ran, then we ran some more. And then when we weren't at the finish line, we ran. We crossed the finish line, and then we were done.

After finishing, though, I proceeded to gorge myself on creamies...the best popsicle on earth.

the time has come

I subscribe to this marathon e-mail/newsletter and thought I'd pass along this motivational gem sent to my inbox shortly after running the 20:

"Anyone can run 20 miles. It's the next six that count." Barry Magee, marathon bronze in Rome, 1960

Well, if that isn't a comfort, I don't know what is!

Good luck to us all! We will come out conquerers (for me, that means just finishing--no matter the pace)!

Let the great carbo load of 2008 begin!

So, the time has come, kids. A little over 72 hours until the marathon. Now comes the time when I fuel up with lots of good carbs like oatmeal and whole wheat tortillas and so on and so forth. I plan on eating a banana wrapped in a tortilla smothered in oatmeal this very evening. Just kidding.

But on a serious note, chillins, electrolytes electrolytes electrolytes. I can't emphasize that enough. *cough* *electrolytes* Drink the gatorade, hydrate yaselves, stretch dem muscles, and get ready for an amazing day on Saturday!

P.S. I'd stay away from dairy as it has a lot of lactose, which leads to lactic acid buildup, which causes the muscles to be sore.

just in case you forgot....

we're running a marathon in 5 days! I really can't believe it. On Saturday, as I was running my five miles, I was thinking: next week I'll be running 21.2 more of these... and then I'm going to have a Coke because two months ago, Dave and I swore off soda until after the race. I can't wait. Yesterday at church, our Sunday School teacher was asking us about hard things we'd accomplished and what helped us get through them. As I shared with the class, here are my motivating factors for finishing the marathon:

1. The shame of not finishing

2. The aforementioned tall glass of ice-cold Coke awaiting me afterward

3. The six months of training behind me

4. Being able to check "run a marathon" off my life's To Do list

Written at the top of the training schedule: At first glance, the task may seem insurmountable but experience and research shows the body, given proper rest, has the capacity to adapt quickly.

Isn't it amazing what a combo of the human body and spirit is capable of?? A marathon = a miracle, in my opinion.

See ya'll Saturday!

Next Adventure

So, I am thinking about running the Sedona Marathon on Feb. 7, 2009. I checked out the website and it looks like it will be a very scenic run. I know I just finished the 1/2 marathon, but I feel like I need to be training for something else. Greg thinks I am crazy, but for some reason I have been on a high ever since I finished the race. It has been great to see all my hard work payoff.

I will be thinking of you marathoners next week. Good luck with the race!

down in flames

I don't want to admit this to Lacy but I don't think I can run the marathon with her next week. You see last weekend I was doing sprints as part of a physical training session with my Reserves unit and if I didn't pull me freakin' hamstring. The bad boy went "pop!" and I went "oh crap!" I've been limping around for five days now and there is no relief in sight. So, Lacy my love, I will be there in spirit but this guy probably won't be able to run. I hate for you to find out this way, but I didn't have the guts to tell you over dinner.

Whiskey Row Marathon

Well, we did it! Lacy and I successfully finished the WR 1/2 marathon. We did not find out until the night before that the first 6 and 1/2 miles were uphill. This first half of the race was brutal, but as you can imagine, the second half was great since it was mostly downhill. The scenery was absolutely beautiful and the weather was perfect, sunny and cool once we actually started running. The town of Prescott is so quaint and friendly, I am definitely returning next year (maybe for the full marathon). The food after the race was delicious and we were both starving. It was a great experience and Lacy and I had tons of fun catching up.

Good luck to all of you on the upcoming SLC marathon! I cannot wait to hear about it.

The Half

Lacy reminded me that I totally missed reporting the events of the SLC half marathon. I may be banished from this blog though, seeing how I have only ran 2 miles since the race.

When my and my sister reached the 3 mile mark of our race, we just looked at each other and laughed since most of our family and friends were participating in the 5K. I have to be honest in saying that I hestitated to even post anything, since most of you run 13 miles on a regular basis. I guess you can laugh thinking of me the next time you run this distance.

Besides the gospel choir at the beginning and the cobblestone path through gateway at the end, I give a pretty good rating to the SLC race. The first 8 miles were a gradual downhill through residential neighborhoods. Thankfully, I didn't have to use the port-a-potty during the race and besides walking through the water stations, we didn't stop! That was my main goal. Our time was 2 hours and 20 minutes, which actually surprised our family. My joints were sore the next 2 days since the farthest I had ran before the race was 9 miles. I didn't train as I probably should have.

After doing the race, I am really glad because I pushed myself farther than I ever thought I would. However, I don't know if I am addicted to the long races. Do any of you think that you will do another half or full afterwards? My sister (on the left) is convinced that she will, but I'm not so sure.

more foot trouble

So last Saturday I taped a blister area I'd recently picked at (this is such a dumb thing to do, I know (the picking, not the taping), but I literally can't help myself). I think I taped it too tight because after the 20 miles I had a blister the size of a peanut there, which I could feel toward the end of the run, which I think then made me run weird and now my foot really hurts. Along the top arc from my big toe to all across my foot, it feels like I've fractured my bone. I hope I haven't, though. Because if after all this training I can't run the big one, I'll really be T.O.ed.

I'm treating myself to an early mother's day gift and getting a new pair of running shoes before I pick up Erin on our way out to Prescott for the Whiskey Row! Is it wise to run a half-marathon in brand-spanking-new shoes?? I'll be sure to let you know.

From one nasty-foot sport to the next...

That's what my sister Liberty said after seeing my lovely blisters... I know you've all got 'em. Even though they kill I'm slightly proud and impressed by their massive size and puffiness. Thought I'd share a pic or two of those buggers...



So sorry for my absence on the blog... way to go you running animals! Wow! I'm kind of sad to not be marathon-ing with you guys in Ogden. Can you believe how quickly it's coming up? I'm actually considering trying to run it with y'all but the max I've run is 16 miles last Saturday. It was awesome. It actually wasn't that bad and I didn't even listen to my ipod even though I brought it... I was on FOCUS... so I didn't want to mess with it. I'm really falling in love with running- maybe it has a lot to do with the Provo River Trail.. oh my word GOR-GEOUS! I love being on it. (Except at the very end by the lake... you can't see out and no one ever seems to be out there so it's kinda creepy in my opinion). Anyway, I love it! I'm realizing what a mental sport it is. I don't know if you guys do this but I get SO anxious about my long runs... can i do it? will I finish? how bad will it hurt? do I even want to do it?... all goes through my head. Usually by the time I actually run it, it's a relief from all the psyching out... It's honestly like I'm in 8th grade again on the day of my track meets. I would get so nervous. Why is that? I was never like that in dance (the other "sport" my sister was referring to.. pointe shoes completely deform your feet and toes.. pretty dance.. UGLY FEET!).
DECISION TIME.. so I'm wondering if it would be possible to run in OGDEN skipping the 18 mile run.. I just found out my family is having a reunion the day of my Teton Dam marathon and so my parents couldn't come and help us with Sawyer... there's also one in Bear Lake on the same day that is more flat than downhill (and we have a summer home there) so I'm wondering if I should switch... I've not registered and I need to decide. My gut feeling says to stick to the plan... I don't want to completely kill my hips, knees and ankles by not getting all the training in.. tell me what you all think, now that you've done 18 and 20 miles. I'm so proud of you all. I know you will all finish your marathons and achieve your goals! You can do it!!

Is this supposed to be good for my health?

'Cause in my opinion, the human body - at least this one - was not meant to be running these insane distances.

HOWEVER, I can now say "Oh yeah like that one time I ran 20 miles..." or "I don't know about you, but when I ran 20 miles..." There is definitely a sense of satisfaction bringing that up completely out of context.

26 miles is now starting to seem possible. I'll be honest I was a little bit scared there for awhile, but as hard as it was I am no more sore today (being the next day) than I was on any of the other long distances. I think I'm actually going to be able to do this, which is good because I've already invested some major $$ into my training and I told 100 or so people in my New Years card that I was going to do it. I can't back down now! Rylan & Jaylee have already accomplished there New Years Resolutions.

ps. I'm glad to see that I was not the only one to feel completely dead after that massive run!

pss. I picked up some Wright Socks and although I do believe they helped in the size and delaying of my blister formation, I still got two blisters. I'm definitely sticking with them because there was a major size difference but I didn't get that 100% Blister Free Guarantee that was promised on the package. I think I've just been babying these feet for the past 25 years, they don't know what hit them!

hey dave, remember that one time we ran 20 miles?

Oh wait, that was today!!! Now if you'll excuse us, we'll be napping for the next four hours.

Hooray for Trisha!

Because she ran her half marathon!!!! I hope she'll post all the gritty details here soon, but for now, you can check out some highlights and leave her a congrats here. Good job, lady!!!

progress

Earlier this week I ran at 8 am in 80 degree weather. Yuck! So this morning, I went at 6 am. I ran three miles in under thirty minutes! Well, okay: 29:18, but still. That's my 10 minute/mile goal. So I was happy. Keeping that pace up for 26.2 miles will be another story...but I'm hoping it helps.

In other progress-news, Dave and I are going up to Tucson tomorrow for a pants shopping spree! This is the first time in my life I'm buying new pants because I've lost weight (usually, I gain weight or my pants have been worn for consecutive years and are falling apart at the seams). So this is very exciting!

I have welts on my back...

from a combination of a generic-brand camelback and my sports bra. Ouch! This condition is further aggravated by the dime-sized mole in the upper-middle of my back (gross, I know. But it's there nonetheless) that is rubbed raw during indecently-long runs. So there's your TMI for the day. I'll obviously be purchasing a new bra before the marathon (but probably not before my run tomorrow, because I'm too lazy to go shopping today).

Anyway, I'm curious to see how everyone's runs went! Dana: did you run 20 miles, you extra-miler, you?? Dave and I only knocked out 17 and it was a pitiful showing. But we DID it! So that must count for something, right? All I can say is thank goodness for Wright Socks! And thank you all for that little foot-saving tip.

I ate? drank? ingested?? the Gu. It was gross, but effective. So. There you have it.

The Pat Tillman Run (an annual Mayberry family tradition) is this Saturday. It's 4.2 miles and I debated within myself whether it could count for my long run if I ran my very hardest. But, just in case it doesn't, I'm running 8 miles on Friday.

Can you believe we're up to 18 miles?

Good Luck to everyone on their big 1-8! Armed with my ipod, water & power bar filled fuel belt, & sunscreen I'm heading out now! Yipee!

Gu

So, tomorrow is 18!!! I just got back from a late-night Big 5 run to purchase mini Camelbacks (ones that hopefully won't jounce) and some power bars for Dave and I. I also picked up some Gu. I know some of you use it. To be honest, the thought of squirting that thing in my mouth like some sort of Go-gurt sounds disgusting. But out of pure curiosity, I thought I'd give it a try. I'll let you know how it goes tomorrow!

Good luck on all your runs!

confession

I too must confess I didn't make the 16 miler last week. However Lacy gave me a little pep talk at the zoo on Friday. Basically telling me she skipped it too. I got to 11 miles, stopped off for a quick drink & bathroom break and couldn't motivate myself any longer. Jay was freaking out at home & Rylan had gotten home from work @ 2:00am. So I was feeling really guilty going another hour. But I ran 11 miles again yesterday and am totally committed to the 18 this week. I'm planning on training 7 miles for my weekly runs (about an hour & a half) instead of the normal 60 minutes. Hopefully that will kick me into gear.

9 miles!

I ran 9 miles today and to my surprise, it was not much harder than my 7 miler last week. When I got within 1 mile of the finish I had a burst of adrenaline that pushed me through. I am ready for 11!

a self-pep talk for saturday

I can feel a head cold coming on...but I'm determined to run through it! Especially considering how I ditched out on my 16 miler last Saturday. But before you utterly shun me, let me explain! I kept vacillating between going and not going, as I had a day-long conference to attend, plus, Dave wasn't going to be able to accompany me, etc. I finally decided on ditching part of the conference and going running. But it just was not happening! I decided to wear Dave's camelback and it kept jouncing all over. Plus, I had totally psyched myself out. I ended up coming back to the house, ditching the camelback, and then going back out to run only 4 miles. But somehow I felt okay about it all. I can't explain why. But there it is: my confession.

Anyway, so tomorrow I'll be running the 10 with just me & the Peeps. Next week: 18 (Dave has cleared his schedule for that one), then 10 again, then 20!!! I've promised myself no more psych-outs. Myself is testing me by getting sick and achy. But to mine own self be true! I'm going out tomorrow come what may!

crisis averted!

What with Erin's running partner down, I've decided to become her "second," and run with her in the Whiskey Row half marathon! It comes two weeks before The Big Day and more or less fits right in with that training schedule. So it really is a fated circumstance.

When I looked at the website for details and found that it's "one of the toughest Marathons in the United States" because of terrain, altitude and weather, I became a bit worried. But what doesn't kill me will make me stronger, right? Plus, I'm looking forward to 13 miles of bonding time, cuz I haven't actually seen Erin in years! I'm so excited!

P.S. A note to all you Ogdeneers: April is our crunch-time running month! I've decided to step things up by actually cross training. Go, runners, go!

Time Limit??

Hi everyone. I'm Jamie. I was invited to contribute awhile ago but I have a really hard time keeping my own blog up to date so I've had an impossible time getting a post up here...but here I am now. I thought I would include my pic so you have a visual of who is blogging (my daugher Jaylee is also pictured...I would be the one old enough to run...or walk for that matter - just so there is no confusion).

I am hoping to run the Ogden Marathon in May. I mentioned my interest in running a 1/2 marathon to Lacy at Book Club in November. Lace gave me a quick pep talk consisting of 1)"Jamie, if you're going to be running half, why not run a whole marathon?" and 2) "If Katie Holmes can do it, why can't we?". I guess I'm pretty much a push over because that is all it took for Lacy to convence me that running this darn race was a good idea. Now that I'm up to 16 miles I'm not so sure.

I got the email about the 17 mile/11:30am cut off today and totally freaked myself out. I did the math wrong and thought we had to keep a 12 minute pace. I was about ready to bow out - I run at a snail slow pace & can only keep the 12 minute pace for about 6 miles and I'm probably being a little generous at that. But then I double checked myself and realized we have 15.88 minutes to work with. That made me feel a lot better. I'm expecting 6.5 hours for the whole thing (Averaging 15 minutes per mile). That way if I finish in a shorter time I'll feel even better about myself (as if finishing 26 miles isn't enough).

Thank you for all of your posts. It is so nice to hear the battle stories of others. I will do my best share some of my own.

Running partner down

So, my running partner (the one who convinced me to run the half marathon) has dropped out due to a foot injury. She may end up running the 10K if it heals in time. I am really disappointed. I know we would not have run the whole race side by side, but it was a comforting thought that she would be in the same race. I know it sounds silly, but now I am nervous to run the race. I am totally unfamiliar with Prescott. I guess if I get there early enough the night before, I can find out where the race begins.

Now I am on my own to train and get ready for the race. I am really glad that I am a part of this blog. You all keep me motivated. Thank you.

16-18 Miles

Who's excited? I'm headed out in 45 minutes.

A Humbling 6 Miles and A Long Run in the Canyon

So two weeks ago was my "easy" 6 miler, right? I'm thinking, "Wow, this will be easy since I ran 12 last week" WRONG!! I thought it would totally be okay that I got trashed at the gym weightlifting with my friend Zoraya- (she is an animal!- no joke- that girl is so tough!) Anyway, I was so fatigued. I stayed up way to late the night before and I was just miserable on my run. I called Mark to come pick me up even though I was probably about a mile and a half from home. I was achey and sore and wretched... anyway, I put that behind me and stuck to my workout even though I started REALLY not wanting to.. this is why I NEED you all. My motivation zaps out sometimes when I get discouraged. Anyway, I did my workouts and I did the 14 miler on Saturday although it was a bit messed up because the Bridal Veil trail is closed until the 31st so I just ended up running the other way down to Will's Pit Stop. It was good. I had an audio book going- I discovered on my 6-miler that I can't run to music. It affects me too much. I try to run to the beat, or if the song is kind of sad or something... anyway I'm sure if I made just the right playlist it would be awesome but I haven't got around to it yet. The audio book is the way to go- at least for part of the time. Mostly I just run in silence, but it was good to take my mind off the fact that I was running for almost three hours! I also stopped at my chiropractor's office on the way home. I was hurting pretty bad and he adjusted me and analyzed my feet and adjusted my insoles. It was great- I'm just realizing that my knees, hips and feet DO feel a lot better since I saw him. Blah, blah blah... I can't believe people run entire marathons in under 3 hours- that is incredible! You guys are awesome. Keep up your good work.

7 miles

I ran 7 miles today--the longest distance I have run yet. Now I am even more in awe of all of you running 14 miles. My legs felt a little wobbly afterwards and I know they will be aching tonight. My shoulders hurt the most when I run. The chiropractor says it is from carrying babies and diaper bags for several years. I try to shake out my arms and swing my arms when they tighten up. Does anyone have any suggestions how I can avoid or lessen the pain?

fast food

So, lately, I've gotten remarks such as: "You probably don't eat sweets very much now that you are running." Or, "I bet you have to eat really healthy now." Um, not so much. In fact, I'd say my life reflects the very opposite. Is it just me, or do you feel that with all the extra miles trekked, you can pretty much eat whatever the heck you want--Cadburrys, cookies, whole avocados--as long as you don't eat it thirty minutes before go time?

In fact, to keep our morale up toward the end of Saturday's run, Dave and I kept fantasizing about a tall glass of ice-cold Coke.

red leggings

Don't be fooled: these are not red leggings, just some seriously sore and sad legs (although you'll notice that I did stand on tiptoes for the picture to show off what, if any, calf muscle I may be developing). I usually run in pants but I found these great running shorts and broke them out for Saturday's 14-miler. I put sunscreen everywhere but my legs, reasoning that the poor little guys never get any color no matter what I do. I sorely underestimated them. It seems I am never learning my severely taught sunburn lessons. For example, see below: me at 16, having gone skiing in the spring without any sunscreen. My poor little face puffed up and sprouted blisters and I hid my face (literally) in shame by staying home from school until I became a bit more recognizable. Ouchhhhh, right?

On another ouch note, that 14 miles was a killer! But not as killer as the 13 a few weeks ago. So that's good. Dave and I took Penelope and Deacon half way (to his parents' house) and then ran the rest of the way home by ourselves. I have to say that running without a pulling dog or pushing a weighted stroller makes such a difference!

So, let's hear about all your long runs yesterday!

Poor me, age 16

Can I get a lift?

To all of you who are running in the double-digits: "You rock!" I am working my way up to a double digit run, 10 miles, before the 1/2 marathon. The first half of the race is apparently run on a steep trail, so once a week I run up a canyon with my kids in the double jogger. The two miles up are brutal, but well worth it because the views are beautiful. On the way back down it is obviously much easier except for the killer hill at the 3 mile mark. I have dubbed it "big bertha" due to the fact that my legs are aching and my chest is burning when I finally reach the top. My oldest daughter chants, "I think I can, I think I can" the whole way up. She is a great cheerleader. The only annoying thing about my run in the canyon are the comments from other people. I don't mind hearing "You go girl!" or "I am impressed!", because it actually gives me a little "lift" and helps me feel better about my run. The comments I find annoying are: "You're getting your workout" (you think so?), "They have the best seats" (referring to my daughters), and my all time favorite, "Can I get a lift?" I usually respond with a complimentary smile and nod, because it is the best I can give while I am huffing and puffing away. I should not really be annoyed by these comments, but I can only hear them so many times. Those of you with kids know what I am talking about. It is the same as when you take your kid(s) to the store and someone asks, "What aisle did you find him/her on?" How do you respond to that? I don't want to be rude, but I would like to have a response that makes people wonder if it was rude or not. Any suggestions?
Keep up the good work!

A Big Thanks

Thanks Brent for the good advice about the side aches. I ran a 6 mile route today (in the rain no less) and stretching my arms out seemed to do the trick. I have also tried to stay well hydrated and I haven't got a headache today!

I am amazed at how much you can push yourself if you really want to accomplish something!

12 Miles, Baby!

I had so much anxiety about running 12 whole miles that I did it on Friday so I could get it over with. It was actually so great to be outside running past the Temple, where I saw some brides out getting their pictures taken- I couldn't help but think of my wedding day. I ran past Lone Peak High School where of course I thought of my high school days. I ran to this corner home in Highland and back. I actually really enjoyed it and when I got home I really couldn't believe I'd run in the double digits!! Before this I'd never even attempt that.
So I have a few questions for you guys- After my long runs the outsides of my hips, knees and ankles kind of ache- it hurts to kneel on my knees and they feel swollen. It helps when I ice them but I'm just wondering if you all have experienced this too. Does anyone have any tips on how to prevent this? I'm wondering if it's because my hips keep going out since I had Sawyer, or if it just because it's a long distance. Anyway, any input would be great. I haven't done my workout for today yet-- just trying to get motivated by visiting the blog. You guys are all awesome! Thanks for all the comments and advice. Happy running!

Hello

I am a new contributor to the marathon blog as well. Thank you Lacy for inviting me. I really enjoy reading everyone's comments. My name is Erin Gorby. I live in Arizona and Lacy and I were college roommates.

I am running a 1/2 marathon on May 3rd in Prescott, Arizona. It is called the "Whiskey Row Marathon". This will be my very first race. I have never even run a 5K, but I have been running for exercise for at least 7 years. Due to the fact that this is my first race, I do not have any tips, but I will keep you all posted on my progress and new revelations as they occur. Good luck to everyone!

Friction

Minor repetitive motions can have major consequences if you're not careful. That's why I wear spandex and synthetic material on my long runs. Your thighs, armpits and nipples can all end up as casualties of friction without some foresight.

I'll be using Body Glide on race day, just to make sure all my bases are covered.

A New Face

Hello to everyone! Thank you to Lacy for inviting me to join the marathon blog. While we made great efforts to run as missionaries in SD, we usually only made a few laps around the tiny field behind our apartment. It was probably only 1/2 mile or something.

But now that my sister somehow convinced me to do the SLC half marathon (and I have never even ran a 5K) I have a lot of questions.

Side aches: Is it really breathing that causes these and if so, what can I do to train myself to breath in my nose and out my mouth when I am ready to die?

Headaches: Did any of you get headaches when you first started running? I seem to get one every time.

Music: Any suggestions for music I can add to an ipod play list. I need some motivating stuff to get me through tomorrow on my long run.

Thanks!

2 gyms 1 workout and the 9 miler

so you'll have to excuse my lack of capitals- sawyer is on my lap so i'm typing with one finger- anyway, two saturdays ago i had my 9-10 mile challenge. mark had mapped out a route on google earth for me- but as i was running it became to complicated to remember. i don;t know if you guys are like this but i kinda turn into my inner animal and thinking becomes extremely laborious- so i simplified the route honestly thinking it would make my run longer than the mapped out 10 miles- but when i got home- we google earthed it and found out it was only 9. i must say i was a bit disappointed- i had it in my head that i was running 10 miles that day- anyway, i'm still pleased with myself. i was gone for two hours and only walked about 15 minutes of it so it was good- i never would've pushed myself this far without the end goal of a marathon and all of you runners keeping me motivated so thanks.
my last saturday run i had to go to two different gold's gyms to complete. my sleeping is pretty messed up so i actually went to bed with sawyer around 6 pm but woke up around 8 and realized i needed to get going. i've missed quite a few week-day workouts but never a long run so i had to go. i got there with about 40 minutes till closing, so i really started to book it so i could get it all in. with my short legs i usually jog at a 5, so i picked it up to a 6 or 7- quite a feat- okay, Mark just got home and so yeah! Punctuation and capitals! Yeah! Anyway, it was quite the challenge and I ended up having to go to another 24 hour gym to complete it, but it was really good for me. It is getting easier, Lacy! Hooray! This morning's 55 minute workout I did all at a 5 on the treadmill, and realized that that didn't really push me- so I think 6 is my new 5... I'm getting stronger and stronger. I have a question for all of you.. do you have a hard time stretching afterward? Being a dancer, I've always stretched out a lot, but with this running, I really don't feel like it. What's up with that? Any tips? I can't wait to read what everyone else has been up to! Happy running this week!

I carbed up

30 minutes after eating Italian Sausage Spaghetti (recipe courtesy of Devry) I went running and ended up much like Michael Scott mid-5K in this season's premier of The Office. It was pathetic! And painful.

Anyway, only a little over two months until the big day! I just started a campaign to raise money for the race in honor of my aunt who died of pancreatic cancer. Those who read my blog already know this. But if you want to support a cause of your own, a great help tool is firstgiving.com. They help you set up a donation website and provide a place for you to leave a personal message, along with widgets and other e-tools to help you spread the word. You'll have to check first to see if they are partnered with the organization you have in mind.

I'm looking forward to a seven-mile Saturday!

Death warmed over

is how I feel after running my 14 miles today and frankly this has me a little worried. Usually after my long runs I feel okay, like I could run longer if I needed to. But not today, by mile eight my legs were hurting and by mile 12 I just wanted the whole thing to be over. If today had been the real deal I would have still had 12.2 miles to go and I wouldn't have made it. I've never even considered the possibility that I wouldn't finish the race, now I have a tiny bit of doubt. On the positive side, I managed to run all 14 miles outside with no bodily injury. Of course it didn't hurt that there was not even a spec of snow or ice on the trail.

dear running, be my valentine

I just wanted to write and say: I love running! It's an amazing life discovery, really--one I never thought I'd be capable of (or interested in) making. But here I am, looking forward to running for hour. It's been nice to see my little town in slow motion, to notice just how many dogs are lurking behind people's fences, to find out where the paved trails lead. What's been really nice is that Dave's been off of work for these two weeks, which means that I don't have to wake up at the crack of dawn to go running. I'm going to miss that next week. Immensely. Hurry up, super-early sunrise! I need you!

bad for the bowels

A word of advice: Don't eat a bag of Cadbury Mini Eggs the day before you run (even if it is only six miles!) Bleck!

I'll admit, I ran on the treadmill today (I'd say it was because of the cold, but most of my compadres are in Utah, where it's really cold) and realized that my love affair with that machine is OVER! I can now honestly claim to be one of those people who prefer running in the great outdoors! Who'da thought??

On V-day, Dave and I went to Performance Footwear in Tucson and had our feet evaluated for the running shoe most suitable for us. It was very interesting. The sales guy crusting at us for not making the over-priced purchase was also interesting...sorry guy! But, hey, thanks for your help!

It's booked!

Hey, just so you know, we're staying at the Marriott in downtown Ogden. It's a block from the finish line, so we won't have to walk so far to our cars!

I'm pretty excited! Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to go run for 70 minutes.

a few thoughts

1) running eleven miles on Saturday was hard. My Relief Society president pulled up alongside of me at one point, reminding me of the meeting I was in the process of missing...oopsie!

2) running at night through dimly-lit parts of town is scary. So I won't be doing that again any time soon.

3) for those of you who missed the marathon movie, they are playing a rerun on Feb 21! So prepare to be inspired!

4) The Nike Plus website is fantastic for mapping out distances (go to My Runs, then Map It).

5) Thanks Brent and April for posting. You guys rule!

Luminous beings are we... not this crude matter!

I did it! I ran eight miles on Saturday. Ok, so I walked probably 3.5 miles of it, and I'm doing my workouts on the treadmill until the snow melts, but, hey.. I'm still ecstatic. Every Saturday I get a big confidence boost because I've never ran this much before in my life. I'm coming to know my limits and potential.

So I do my long workouts in the Cardio Cinema at Gold's- I know it's going to be a completely different story once I move my workouts outside- but in the meanwhile, I'm really banking on the distraction factor. If I can get into the movie than I can kind of forget that I'm doing a really challenging workout. The movie on Saturday was Star Wars.. The Empire Strikes Back. I was hitting my first wall, when that scene with Yoda and Luke in the swamp came on. I'm so nerdy, but I love that part. When he said, "Luminous beings are we... not this crude matter!" it helped me push through- Go Yoda!! I love that little green guy. Anyway, I need those little reminders and mantras to help me- I am SO out of shape since my pregnancy, and this is a great challenge- so I'm so excited to be apart of this little marathon gang- we'll keep each other going, won't we? Mark and Amber and I are planning on running the Teton Dam Marathon in June (Amber got started a little later, so she might find a later one) but we're all doing the training because of you wonderful runners!! Thanks for the inspiration.

I got this phrase in my fortune cookie the other night, "The time is right to achieve your dreams." When I got that I really felt like it was true... so I'm going to give that fortune to all of you tonight; the time is right- you luminous beings!!! Happy running-April

First outside run!

Friday was the first day warm enough (for me...the wimp) to actually run outside, and it was great. Up until now, I've been running on the treadmill at the gym or at BYU's indoor track. Let me express my gratitude now for portable music (and the occasional episode of This American Life) because otherwise I think I would have broken down on the treadmill out of boredom. But I digress.

I went out in the late afternoon, and the sun was casting shadows from the sparse clouds on the mountains. Mt. Timp looked as beautiful as I've ever seen it. It was a good omen for my run.

I headed down to the Provo River trail (it's less than a mile away from my house), and unlike Dana, was able to avoid falling, but granted, I didn't have to go through underpasses (which also creep me out). I don't know why I'm blogging about this, I guess I just want to share the joy of being able to run outside! I've been cramped in the gym, so it's nice to get out, you know?

This time I went down to Utah Lake State Park, and took part of the trail I'd never taken before. It runs north/south on the eastern shore of the lake and dead ends at a little creek that feeds in the lake. So, there's the lake on one side and nothing but pasture on the other. Acres and acres of snow-covered pasture with cows. No houses, no buildings, and you can see across the valley, see the Provo temple up by Rock Canyon, and the mountains, which were gorgeous. It was one of those moments where you take a deep breath, sigh, and tell God you're grateful to be alive, running, and soaking up all the beauty around you. You know what I mean?

The run got interesting because I decided not to retrace my path. Instead I cut across the pastures, which turned out to be tougher than I thought. Running in snow a foot deep is quite the challenge. I thought my feet would freeze, but they were fine. I saw all kinds of animal tracks, a recently deceased cow, I had to jump a creek and a couple of fences, and my thighs felt they were about to combust. But I made it!

"So what?" one might ask. I'm just spreading the joy of running, that's all.

I did it, sorta!?

I just completed my online registration for the marathon. I also started my 12 mile run outside. I say started not completed because at around 5.5 miles on the scenic Provo River Parkway I slipped and fell on a huge patch of ice. It was a stupid move on my part really and probably could have been avoided. The trail was on and off snowy/icy some parts were dry as can be and others had ice but with a decent covering of powder so there was some traction. The scary parts are when I would head under a bridge. These bridge underpass things are actually scary on many levels because they built the underpasses with these really high cement walls on either side of you so you can't see what you are running into and it's really dark, so needless to say I was also clutching my pepper spray as I approached each one. As I approached this one I could see there was not even a tiny patch of asphalt it was completely iced over so I slowed down. I should have stopped but I didn't and my feet slipped out from under me and I fell backwards flat onto my back. I picked myself and my shattered self dignity up and tried to keep going but it was very painful so I surrendered to my wimpier side and called Ryan to come and get me. I've showered, rested, taken a prescription Aleve and am feeling much better so now I want to finish my miles (in the safety of the gym). So this is my question should I just go run the 6.5 I have left to make it 12 or should I run the full 12 in the gym making my total mileage for today 17.5 miles or should I just call it good for today and run the 12 miles next week , in essence just switching up the weeks as next week we only have to run 6 miles according to the schedule? Well if anyone reads this in the next few hours let me know what you would do. If not I'll have to make the call on my own, I just don't want to surrender to my wimpier side twice in the same day.

Greetings!

Hey, kids. I'm honored to contribute to the marathon blog. 'Tis a great thing.

Not that I'm a veteran, but I've run the Ogden marathon twice, and I have to say it's one of the funnest (most fun?) races out there. (Disclaimer: The Ogden is the only marathon I've run, so I really have no basis for comparison.) It's a gorgeous course...all pretty flat with one "serious" hill , the volunteers are all great, there's plenty of aid stations, and it's good times.

One marathon a year is about all I can handle, though.

My advice for today is to never neglect your training. Race day may seem pretty distant, but seriously, if you want this to be a pleasant experience, you need to get ready for it NOW.

an invitation

So, my friend April has hopped on the marathon bandwagon! She's training for the Teton Dam Marathon in June. She's a first-timer and I thought it would be fun to hear about her training. Consorting/commiserating helps to keep us inspired, right?? So, we invite her to be a contributer on our blog!

We'd also like to invite Brent, a two-(or perhaps three?) time Ogden Marathon runner who can enlighten us with his experience.

More of my in-laws (Kev & Kate) were seriously contemplating joining in. They're invited, too!

Am I missing anyone? Even if--no--especially if you're a blog stalker and we don't know you: leave a comment with your email and you're invited too!

It's a marathon party!

fun for the whole family

We all went out this morning for a five-mile run through town. Good times! I ran the entire way and not only didn't feel like dying (my normal sentiments) at some point, but I felt great the whole way! I think this is a good sign...

not too late...

I found this alternative training schedule at the Runner's World website. It's a 16 week plan, meaning, that anyone out there who wants to run but hasn't started yet (aka Dave)--this is your week to begin!

it's official!

A little FYI: I just registered for the race!

hot date

Dave and I got a sitter for the big show last night and we loved it! I love that they focused on the Chicago Marathon because that's where we got the idea to go for this thing in the first place. We were in the Expo building, watching all the marathoners come in and pick up their numbers and as I saw the hoards of people, I thought to myself: Hey, these people look like me! If they can do a marathon, so can I!

Highlight lessons from the film were:

1. Paula Radcliffe (right) really is my hero.
2. I need to read more on marathon training.
3. Where do I get one of those water bottle fanny packs?

Spirit of the Marathon

This film will be playing at select theaters (and I suspect even not so select theaters, as it's playing in my town) this Thursday (1.24.08) only. I saw a preview for it this past weekend and it looked ever-so inspiring! Just the sort of emotional boost I'll need to pound out those ten miles this Saturday! I just bought our tickets on Fandango ($10 per person). So all ya'll looking for a bit of motivation--don't miss out!

a poo attack and other concerns

So, I ran my eight miles yesterday because we're out of town today. Half way through, I was seized by a poo attack. It was of such a nature that I had to start walking. I gave it a minute, jogged again, and found that I'd better slow to a walk or be sorry. Finally made it to a friend's house. Used their bathroom, couldn't "go." (If this is all a bit graphic, I'm sorry. But I'm getting to a point). By then I had two miles more on my route but my legs literally wouldn't let me run. I'm very surprised they allowed me to get back home at all.

Luckily, they've got port-a-pottys along a marathon route (S.V. streets should invest in these as well). But for the first time I realized just how difficult this run is going to be. I've been running in the middle of what the schedule suggests (aka if it says run from 30 to 45 mins, I'll usually run 35 and call it good). But I decided that if I really am going to be able to pull this off, I'll need to start training at maximum capacity.

Good luck running today, girls!

i just ran a quarter-marathon!

and you did too, if your on schedule... A big shout-out goes to my dog Deacon, who acted as the treadmill factor--pulling me along when I wanted to quit.

a call for kathleen

I hereby nominate Auntie Kathleen to join the upcoming marathon. All in favor, please comment.

She's already busted out several consecutive miles. Why not bust out a few more and call it a marathon?? Besides that, she'll receive a custom-designed (by ry@n) shirt for the race and her cool-status will skyrocket among her nieces. What more can I say? Go Kathy!