Last week I ran my fourth half marathon. I cannot believe those words can even come out of my mouth (or onto this blog) and be true! This year's race day was actually one of my favorites. I was sad to not have some of the usual suspects around, but my cousin Maria Elena was there at the start right next to me and that was all I needed. As soon as we were able to cross the start line and she made her pace that she was trying to keep known to me, I told her to run ahead, ha...there was no way I was keeping up, but just having her there for the anticipation of the start was a huge help. Thankfully, the race angels were with us for another year and the weather held out. Although I'm sure it was just Mom-Mom looking out for us. It was high 30's/low 40's and sunny for most of the race. Perfect running weather. While I knew I wouldn't be running quite as fast as last year, I felt better...especially considering last year I felt as if I was going to puke on the car ride downtown before the race. I was ready this time around. My training had not been the best, but I was determined.
One of the first things I saw the morning of the race, after hitting up the long bathroom lines, was the NYC Corral. After Hurricane Sandy good ol' Mayor Nutter opened up 3000 spots in the race for NYC Marathon runners. What I didn't know is that they had created NYC specific Corrals...there were two of them. I nearly lost it just looking at that group, such determination, it was amazing. Not only had they trained for months, but then their marathon was canceled last minute in response to the Hurricane. Who knows how many of those runners may have been directly affected by the devastation left by Sandy, but there they were on the Parkway ready to run in the Philly Marathon. Throughout the race I saw people running in their NYC Marathon shirts, and some had written "Thank You Philly" on the back. The appreciation that the NY runners showed towards Philadelphia was truly overwhelming. It made me so proud to be from Philadelphia and to call NY home.
One of my main goals each year is to run as far as I can in the race before even thinking of taking a walking break. Last year I only made it to Mile 3 as I was severely cramping and had to tell my cousin to run ahead. I walked almost all of Mile 4 last year and finally picked up pace again at the end of Mile 5. I was able to run faster last year however. This year I was actually able to run all the way through to about Mile 7.5! It was a huge accomplishment for me. Two things that truly kept me going were the exceptional sideline signs this year. I really think people stepped up their game in their witty remarks. And I don't know what it says about Philly with the amount of "Run like you just stole something" signs I saw, hahaha. My favorite that I can remember was around Mile 4 with a sign that read "If you were Paul Ryan you would have been here an hour ago". They made me laugh and kept my spirits up. I also saw a guy running who had taped "FU Sandy" to the back of his shirt. That one made me laugh, then cry a little, but mainly laugh.
The other amazing surprise was the random people on the sideline that I knew! At Mile 4 I was slightly struggling and then I saw my friends PJ and Bridget from Fordham. As I was running down Chestnut I saw my friend Bridget that I grew up with. Mile 10 I was really struggling, I knew the end was near, I had gotten past the big hill...and as I was running towards the Please Touch Museum I started thinking about AJ & Gina and their wedding that will be there in June. Then in the last mile along the river I saw my friend Bridget's dad on the sideline. It turns out he had already finished the half and was back waiting for his wife (who I saw afterwards). These little surprises gave me such energy boosts.
I crossed the finish line strong, knowing I didn't beat my time from last year, but still didn't put on a bad showing. I was proud of myself and actually felt good (little did I know that I'd be shivering the entire car ride home and wouldn't be able to walk for two days after, hahaha). One of the best surprises was Jeannine waiting for me at the finish line. She had, of course, finished hours before, ha...and found my parents and Trey. It was so great to see her.
I have to say...the entire race the one thought that kept running through my mind was how I would never run a full marathon, haha...but I truly can't wait to run my next half.
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Thursday, November 15, 2012
Two Milestones, One Week
Never in a million years would I think I'd be able to say that in three days I'd be running my fourth half marathon, and yet here I am three days from running my fourth Philadelphia Half Marathon. It's truly amazing, and while I am a horrible trainer and only run four months out of the year, it is still a major life moment for me. Doing it year after year has become fun, and while I don't get too nervous, I do get a nervous excited feeling on race morning. There isn't much like that adrenaline that fills your entire body and somehow makes your legs start moving as the crowd shuffles forward lurching ever so slowly toward the starting line. I have already decided that next year, to mark my fifth time running the race, I am going to not focus as much on my time and bring my camera along to document the race. These years of running and fundraising are some that I will never forget.
The second, and more important milestone comes one week from today. Next Thursday, November 22nd, is Trey's 17th birthday. Yup, 17! This is another milestone that we weren't sure would ever come. Well, to rephrase that, we as a family knew (or at least had faith) it would come, there were a lot of people around us that tried to prepare us for the worst. Trey was never expected to make it past a year, let alone all the way to seventeen. He was also never supposed to be able to go to school, let alone integrated public school. He was never supposed to be able to learn much of anything, let alone know how to make choices, which he can do...we just have to adapt to his style of doing things. The list is endless of things we weren't supposed to be able to do with him, but thankfully my parents listened to their hearts and not to the doctors on this one and we have never left Trey out of any family function...our family is not whole without him sitting at the table.
His strength and will to fight is what fuels us every single day in finding a way to help fund the research at CHOP. He has enough courage in his little toe than I could ever hope to have. I scoff at those doctors that expected the worst, as they didn't know what this little guy was made of. They didn't know where his family came from, that he comes from a long line of fighters and strong Italians, French, English...people who all had to fight for what they believed in. They didn't know the family that Trey had surrounding him, not only my parents, my older brother and myself, but that we have a vast web of grandparents, cousins, aunts and uncles that are never ready to take "no" for an answer. We are a stubborn folk, and in this instance it did us well, knowing that there was always more that could be done. While I try to steer clear of getting too ahead of myself, knowing that Trey still has a very long road ahead of him, I still think those doctors that weren't willing to give him a second chance should have his picture on their walls to prove to themselves and their patients that anything is possible.
So next week while we are eating turkey with our entire family, we will also be getting ready to cut into some birthday cake and wish the little guy a very happy 17th birthday...and many more to come.
www.tristanmullenfund.org
The second, and more important milestone comes one week from today. Next Thursday, November 22nd, is Trey's 17th birthday. Yup, 17! This is another milestone that we weren't sure would ever come. Well, to rephrase that, we as a family knew (or at least had faith) it would come, there were a lot of people around us that tried to prepare us for the worst. Trey was never expected to make it past a year, let alone all the way to seventeen. He was also never supposed to be able to go to school, let alone integrated public school. He was never supposed to be able to learn much of anything, let alone know how to make choices, which he can do...we just have to adapt to his style of doing things. The list is endless of things we weren't supposed to be able to do with him, but thankfully my parents listened to their hearts and not to the doctors on this one and we have never left Trey out of any family function...our family is not whole without him sitting at the table.
His strength and will to fight is what fuels us every single day in finding a way to help fund the research at CHOP. He has enough courage in his little toe than I could ever hope to have. I scoff at those doctors that expected the worst, as they didn't know what this little guy was made of. They didn't know where his family came from, that he comes from a long line of fighters and strong Italians, French, English...people who all had to fight for what they believed in. They didn't know the family that Trey had surrounding him, not only my parents, my older brother and myself, but that we have a vast web of grandparents, cousins, aunts and uncles that are never ready to take "no" for an answer. We are a stubborn folk, and in this instance it did us well, knowing that there was always more that could be done. While I try to steer clear of getting too ahead of myself, knowing that Trey still has a very long road ahead of him, I still think those doctors that weren't willing to give him a second chance should have his picture on their walls to prove to themselves and their patients that anything is possible.
So next week while we are eating turkey with our entire family, we will also be getting ready to cut into some birthday cake and wish the little guy a very happy 17th birthday...and many more to come.
www.tristanmullenfund.org
Saturday, October 27, 2012
It's All A Mind Game
Every year I have to remind myself that this whole running thing is truly mind over matter. This morning was a testament to that. My goal was 7 miles and I was going to get it done. I automatically felt better running, and once I went into the Park I knew I had this. Next weekend is the NYC Marathon, so Central Park is gearing up, as the last few miles are around the Park. It's always fun to run during this time, because there are a bunch of teams out and the closer we get the more international runners are out. I stopped at 96th for my water break and to take off my long sleeved shirt...seriously, I was in shorts and a t-shirt at this point. I really hope this weather holds up for another few weeks and just doesn't suddenly dive out of nowhere. I continued running and made it two whole miles without stopping at all, which is huge for me. As you go down the west side of the Park around 67th you see the full set up for the end of the marathon. It's so much fun to run through the bleachers and banners and just imagine yourself finishing the marathon.
I was doing so well at this point that there really was no reason for me to stop and walk at all, but I still did every so often. This is when I realized I definitely could have pushed myself a little harder. Never throughout my training do I ever push myself to my full potential, I'm not sure why...possibly I think that I'm holding it all for race day, who knows. I know I can do better, but if I'm going to hold it, that's fine. Race day always brings extra energy from the other runners, the people along the streets cheering and just the event itself that I always end up running a little faster than usual.
I got myself back around to E. 90th St. and took my second water break and walked a bit before heading back out. I agreed with myself that I was only going to walk one more time if needed since I was only 30 blocks away. Of course it was at this point that I started cramping in my chest, so I had to slow down a bit and focus on my breathing. I was finally able to get that under control and finished up my 7 miles. It felt great. I was running in my shoes from last year since my other sneakers are currently under my desk at work. And well...I may actually continue running in my old shoes, I felt a lot better than I had on Thursday when I ran in my newer shoes that I swear have been giving me problems. So who knows. I'm feeling good though.
Next week, depending on what the storm allows, I'm planning on doing another 5 and another 7, then the week after I'm aiming for 10. Last year I only got up to 7 in my training, but I'd love to get up to 10 this year and really feel comfortable, since I haven't been doing that much running. I also like to make myself feel better by saying that Central Park is a lot hillier than the half marathon course, except for that one hill around mile 9, ha...so if I continue on my pace in the Park I should be golden on race day. I'm gaining my confidence back and just can't wait now.
So yes...I think I should be fine, as long as that mind of mine doesn't get the better of me. It has had a habit of doing that lately, but I will soon win that battle and run a great race.
www.tristanmullenfund.org
I was doing so well at this point that there really was no reason for me to stop and walk at all, but I still did every so often. This is when I realized I definitely could have pushed myself a little harder. Never throughout my training do I ever push myself to my full potential, I'm not sure why...possibly I think that I'm holding it all for race day, who knows. I know I can do better, but if I'm going to hold it, that's fine. Race day always brings extra energy from the other runners, the people along the streets cheering and just the event itself that I always end up running a little faster than usual.
I got myself back around to E. 90th St. and took my second water break and walked a bit before heading back out. I agreed with myself that I was only going to walk one more time if needed since I was only 30 blocks away. Of course it was at this point that I started cramping in my chest, so I had to slow down a bit and focus on my breathing. I was finally able to get that under control and finished up my 7 miles. It felt great. I was running in my shoes from last year since my other sneakers are currently under my desk at work. And well...I may actually continue running in my old shoes, I felt a lot better than I had on Thursday when I ran in my newer shoes that I swear have been giving me problems. So who knows. I'm feeling good though.
Next week, depending on what the storm allows, I'm planning on doing another 5 and another 7, then the week after I'm aiming for 10. Last year I only got up to 7 in my training, but I'd love to get up to 10 this year and really feel comfortable, since I haven't been doing that much running. I also like to make myself feel better by saying that Central Park is a lot hillier than the half marathon course, except for that one hill around mile 9, ha...so if I continue on my pace in the Park I should be golden on race day. I'm gaining my confidence back and just can't wait now.
So yes...I think I should be fine, as long as that mind of mine doesn't get the better of me. It has had a habit of doing that lately, but I will soon win that battle and run a great race.
www.tristanmullenfund.org
Thursday, October 25, 2012
5 Miles Down...What's 8 More?
This morning I slept through my alarm. I don't know how or why I missed my alarm, but I did. I woke up at 8:00a.m. and really contemplated not going out for my run this morning. It is just about 3 weeks until the half marathon and my training has been pretty non-existent. I'm obviously having a hard time motivating myself to get up and out, this morning being no exception. Knowing Robin was going to call into the show this morning to talk to the anchors (and Oprah!) I wanted to be around to watch it live, so that meant I couldn't go anywhere until 9a.m. I promised myself I'd get dressed and go running after the show.
Now...I have spoken to Robin over the past months that she's been out. I even had the pleasure of visiting with her just this week. For some reason listening to her call into the show, hearing her voice on air talking to the other anchors really gave me that kick in the ass that I've needed. It was so amazing seeing everyone's reactions and just hearing how full of life she was. There was no excuse for me to go out and run a few miles, it just seemed silly. I looked down at my left wrist where I wear both my Team Robin bracelet and my St. John Neumann bracelet for Mom-Mom and out I went.
Right away I knew this run would be different. My shoes were still bothering me, therefore my legs/knees were hurting, but the endurance was there. Someone finally decided to tell my lungs that I'm running! It made such a difference. I, admittedly, usually have to walk some of the distance. As I said in one of my last posts "there is no shame in walking," but I was able to run most of this! I made it to 96th in Central Park where I cut over to the reservoir and I only walked two very short distances all the way around the reservoir! My way home was the same. It was so uplifting, I am still feeling the endorphins. I even ran a quicker pace by a whole minute than the last time I ran, which makes me feel so much better.
So while I'm still contemplating whether or not I need to buy new shoes, I am completely motivated to get back out there and run on Saturday. The goal? 7 miles! My confidence is building and it feels great.
Thank you to Robin and Mom-Mom for always motivating me and I can't wait to carry both of you with me throughout Philadelphia in three weeks. It's going to be a great day, I just know it.
Don't forget to donate or leave an encouraging message!
www.tristanmullenfund.org
Now...I have spoken to Robin over the past months that she's been out. I even had the pleasure of visiting with her just this week. For some reason listening to her call into the show, hearing her voice on air talking to the other anchors really gave me that kick in the ass that I've needed. It was so amazing seeing everyone's reactions and just hearing how full of life she was. There was no excuse for me to go out and run a few miles, it just seemed silly. I looked down at my left wrist where I wear both my Team Robin bracelet and my St. John Neumann bracelet for Mom-Mom and out I went.
Right away I knew this run would be different. My shoes were still bothering me, therefore my legs/knees were hurting, but the endurance was there. Someone finally decided to tell my lungs that I'm running! It made such a difference. I, admittedly, usually have to walk some of the distance. As I said in one of my last posts "there is no shame in walking," but I was able to run most of this! I made it to 96th in Central Park where I cut over to the reservoir and I only walked two very short distances all the way around the reservoir! My way home was the same. It was so uplifting, I am still feeling the endorphins. I even ran a quicker pace by a whole minute than the last time I ran, which makes me feel so much better.
So while I'm still contemplating whether or not I need to buy new shoes, I am completely motivated to get back out there and run on Saturday. The goal? 7 miles! My confidence is building and it feels great.
Thank you to Robin and Mom-Mom for always motivating me and I can't wait to carry both of you with me throughout Philadelphia in three weeks. It's going to be a great day, I just know it.
Don't forget to donate or leave an encouraging message!
www.tristanmullenfund.org
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
Send Your Money, Prayers, Encouragement, Hugs, Cheers, and Money
Every year this is the most awkward part of running this race...when I remember that it's actually a fundraiser and I have to reach out and ask people for money. Everyone has been absolutely amazing throughout the years and it is that support that keeps me going. So...read the letter below, donate, send prayers, give your favorite runner a hug, come cheer us on on race day! Thank you for everything! Love you all!
Hello Friends and Family!!!---You guessed it, it's that time of year again. The time has come for me to claim I'm training for a half marathon and then three weeks before start actually running, ha. Yup...that's basically where I am with things. Our 5th Annual Tristan's Run, as part of The Philadelphia Half/Full Marathon is in less than four weeks on November 18th! We are continuing to raise money for The Tristan Mullen Fund at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, directly supporting the Mitochondrial Research Center. I cannot thank you enough for all of your support through the years. With your amazing donations, we raised $25,000 just last year, bringing us to over $65,000 total for the past four years!!! Our goal is to raise another $25,000 and then just keep on going. With these donations we have already had one study published, and I cannot even imagine the amount of kids out there just like Trey, and those still to come, that we will continue to be able to help. This is Tristan's legacy, as the research may not help him directly, but I have faith that there is a cure out there for this so called "Tristan Disease" and I know he would want the doctors at CHOP to be able to do all that they can to find it.
Hello Friends and Family!!!---You guessed it, it's that time of year again. The time has come for me to claim I'm training for a half marathon and then three weeks before start actually running, ha. Yup...that's basically where I am with things. Our 5th Annual Tristan's Run, as part of The Philadelphia Half/Full Marathon is in less than four weeks on November 18th! We are continuing to raise money for The Tristan Mullen Fund at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, directly supporting the Mitochondrial Research Center. I cannot thank you enough for all of your support through the years. With your amazing donations, we raised $25,000 just last year, bringing us to over $65,000 total for the past four years!!! Our goal is to raise another $25,000 and then just keep on going. With these donations we have already had one study published, and I cannot even imagine the amount of kids out there just like Trey, and those still to come, that we will continue to be able to help. This is Tristan's legacy, as the research may not help him directly, but I have faith that there is a cure out there for this so called "Tristan Disease" and I know he would want the doctors at CHOP to be able to do all that they can to find it.
As for Trey...he's pretty rad, as usual. He is currently in his Junior year at Great Valley High School. He and my mom are going to become a part of the Drama Guild in the winter helping with costumes and just generally bringing good cheer, which is very exciting for both of them. They used to do this when Ian and I did the plays at Carroll, and between my mom's expert sewing skills and Trey's ability to keep anyone company, they're a great team. This past August we were able to make a trip down to Disney, which he loved. He even took a trip on the Amtrak auto train on their way to Orlando!. In November we will all take a trip down to Cape May, NJ to spend Thanksgiving with the entire Pippett clan, and I'm sure Trey can't wait to spend some time with his cousins.
While we are asking for your donations, we know that times are hard, so we will take anything you can give us...your money, your kind words of encouragement, you cheering us on along the Parkway on race day, a hug...any of the above, ha. As I said, the race is on Sunday, November 18th starting and finishing at the Ben Franklin Parkway (think steps from Rocky for all you non-Philadelphians, ha) and we run throughout South Philadelphia, so I would love to see some of you out there cheering us on. You have no idea how far your encouragement can take us runners.
Year after year Tristan and the rest of my family are completely overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support by this community that we have found loves Trey just as much as we do, that I want to thank you in advance. It has truly been a blessing to be a part of this these past four years. There aren't many people that could get me to run 13.1 miles every November, but...anything for the little guy.
So...please go to our team website, www.tristanmullenfund.org and donate. No amount is too little (or too big, ha!)
Thank you so much.
Love and peace,
Sonny
Saturday, August 25, 2012
There Is No Shame In Walking
This is something I have to remind myself every year as I begin training, and I've found once I've come to peace with the fact that there is no shame in walking my training goes to a whole new level.
This morning I actually got myself out of bed and set off to run my scheduled 4 miles. Ironically, there apparently had been a Harlem 5K this morning, so for about the first five blocks of my run I kept seeing people with bibs carefully pinned on their shirts, which pushed me to keep my feet moving. I also tried a different route today, saying goodbye to the boring, flat sidewalk, and heading straight into Central Park facing the Great Hill feet first. It was at this point that I knew I wouldn't be able to keep up my pace, but the rule I have made with myself over the years is that I'm not allowed to walk downhill, it's actually harder to walk downhill anyway. So, I ran as far as I could up the hill and then took breathers, setting my sights on a lamppost or street sign, saying that once I reached that landmark the feet better start picking up the pace again. Needless to say, my pace this morning was crap, but...I did it. I ran down to and around the reservoir and when I came to where I had entered the reservoir's path I thought I still had another mile and a half to make up. As I took one more look at my RunKeeper app on my phone and realized my math was way off and I really only had about .7 miles left I was reenergized and started running north. As soon as I hit that 4 mile marker I walked the rest of the way home. The one consolation was that even though I walked probably about a third of my run, I had it in me to go even further. So yes, my pace was crap, but really...it's only my second day back running. I feel a little bit more hopeful and just pray this can continue.
I did buy new blue shoes on Thursday, so it's always fun running in new pretty shoes. One technical difficulty is that the tongue of my sneaker keeps sliding to the outside of my foot, leaving my instep exposed to the tightened laces. I'm sure I'll figure this out sooner or later. The good thing is that they are comfortable, and did I mention that they're blue and pretty? hehe.
One thing I'm constantly reminded of, especially as I get frustrated because I need to walk at times, is that sooner or later this whole thing becomes bigger than me...no matter how hard the training and no matter how hard I may be on myself, this whole running thing truly is bigger than me, or any of us for that matter. I remember in high school when Dipi, Coach Bhaya, or Coach (we were only really allowed to call her Coach or Coach Bhaya, ha...Dipi was for us to call her behind closed doors), would run us ragged in field hockey practice during our preseason two-a-days. She'd use the entire morning for conditioning, running us into the ground with her various drills she previously tested out on college level athletes. While I was never very good at running, and truly dreaded most of what she threw at us, there was one in particular that really wore me out. Dipi would simply tell us to run around the field for 20 minutes. We could go in any direction we wanted, zig zag, whatever...just keep moving. I'd be worn out after 5 minutes, but as morose as it may sound I just kept thinking about those that had gone before us...we said goodbye to someone almost once a year at that point, and I would think of Trey...if all of these people could go through what they had I could certainly run around the field for 20 minutes. Seems silly to compare the two at all, right? This method has always gotten me through though. And now when I'm training for a half marathon, which is still mind boggling, I continue to think of those that have passed through the years, because unfortunately the goodbyes haven't stopped. This year in particular we've said goodbye to some great ones, and when I'm running I know they'll lift me through those hard times. So for now I may walk a bit, but when it's race time, those angels will all be right on my shoulders ready to bring me to the finish line. It's like my own personal version of Angels In the Outfield...only let's say it's Angels In The Half Marathon...hmm...I'm sure I can come up with something better for that title, but you get the drift, ha.
This morning I actually got myself out of bed and set off to run my scheduled 4 miles. Ironically, there apparently had been a Harlem 5K this morning, so for about the first five blocks of my run I kept seeing people with bibs carefully pinned on their shirts, which pushed me to keep my feet moving. I also tried a different route today, saying goodbye to the boring, flat sidewalk, and heading straight into Central Park facing the Great Hill feet first. It was at this point that I knew I wouldn't be able to keep up my pace, but the rule I have made with myself over the years is that I'm not allowed to walk downhill, it's actually harder to walk downhill anyway. So, I ran as far as I could up the hill and then took breathers, setting my sights on a lamppost or street sign, saying that once I reached that landmark the feet better start picking up the pace again. Needless to say, my pace this morning was crap, but...I did it. I ran down to and around the reservoir and when I came to where I had entered the reservoir's path I thought I still had another mile and a half to make up. As I took one more look at my RunKeeper app on my phone and realized my math was way off and I really only had about .7 miles left I was reenergized and started running north. As soon as I hit that 4 mile marker I walked the rest of the way home. The one consolation was that even though I walked probably about a third of my run, I had it in me to go even further. So yes, my pace was crap, but really...it's only my second day back running. I feel a little bit more hopeful and just pray this can continue.
I did buy new blue shoes on Thursday, so it's always fun running in new pretty shoes. One technical difficulty is that the tongue of my sneaker keeps sliding to the outside of my foot, leaving my instep exposed to the tightened laces. I'm sure I'll figure this out sooner or later. The good thing is that they are comfortable, and did I mention that they're blue and pretty? hehe.
One thing I'm constantly reminded of, especially as I get frustrated because I need to walk at times, is that sooner or later this whole thing becomes bigger than me...no matter how hard the training and no matter how hard I may be on myself, this whole running thing truly is bigger than me, or any of us for that matter. I remember in high school when Dipi, Coach Bhaya, or Coach (we were only really allowed to call her Coach or Coach Bhaya, ha...Dipi was for us to call her behind closed doors), would run us ragged in field hockey practice during our preseason two-a-days. She'd use the entire morning for conditioning, running us into the ground with her various drills she previously tested out on college level athletes. While I was never very good at running, and truly dreaded most of what she threw at us, there was one in particular that really wore me out. Dipi would simply tell us to run around the field for 20 minutes. We could go in any direction we wanted, zig zag, whatever...just keep moving. I'd be worn out after 5 minutes, but as morose as it may sound I just kept thinking about those that had gone before us...we said goodbye to someone almost once a year at that point, and I would think of Trey...if all of these people could go through what they had I could certainly run around the field for 20 minutes. Seems silly to compare the two at all, right? This method has always gotten me through though. And now when I'm training for a half marathon, which is still mind boggling, I continue to think of those that have passed through the years, because unfortunately the goodbyes haven't stopped. This year in particular we've said goodbye to some great ones, and when I'm running I know they'll lift me through those hard times. So for now I may walk a bit, but when it's race time, those angels will all be right on my shoulders ready to bring me to the finish line. It's like my own personal version of Angels In the Outfield...only let's say it's Angels In The Half Marathon...hmm...I'm sure I can come up with something better for that title, but you get the drift, ha.
Thursday, August 23, 2012
Race Training Day 2--Epic Fail
So it's true, I couldn't pull myself out of bed this morning to go running. I hit that ever present snooze button time after time until I had to go to work. I slightly feel like I failed today, but at the same time I'm trying to not be too hard on myself. I have tomorrow afternoon I could go running, and no matter what I'll go running Saturday and do the steps on Sunday. I just don't want to start getting too far behind too quickly. I am still pretty sore from that first pitiful run and going down steps is nearly torture, I'd almost rather fall down the steps, ha.
There are so many excuses I could make, but really...I just need to wake up and get my butt out the door. It'll happen, one day at a time.
Today however...I think I'm going to try on some new sneakers. Very exciting indeed.
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Eating Is Half The Battle
Yes, I have started training for my fourth half marathon, but the real battle for me is what almost everyone, especially women, face on a daily basis...the yo-yo effect of my weight. As I mentioned yesterday, I haven't worked out with my trainer in a while and I just went on vacation, so I'm feeling extra blah lately. The past month and a half has been pretty screwy, resulting in there being no food in my refrigerator, so I'm buying almost every meal. I know, this is awful and a waste of money, I just haven't had time to go grocery shopping and I wasn't in my apartment long enough to eat the food. So, now that things have settled down and I have no big plans for the next few months I need to get back to eating right. I keep giving excuses, like yesterday when I had pizza for dinner and justified that I can get away with eating crap for the next few days, since I don't have time to go grocery shopping until Friday. This morning as I walked past the bakery with my favorite blueberry muffins (it should be a crime to put bakeries that close to my morning walk to the subway!) I kept on walking, knowing that I could get some Honey Nut Cheerios at work.
Eating right has always been a struggle, and it's not the actual act of eating right that is the struggle as much as making the decision to start eating right. Once I'm a few days into it, like any other habit, I'm ok. I've honestly never had any problem giving up certain foods, it's just a matter of keeping up the eating schedule. I think that as my marathon training continues, and once I start back with my trainer after Labor Day, everything else will fall into place. I have learned through the years to not be too hard on myself and we all slip here and there. I will go grocery shopping this weekend, and finally have food in the fridge...I will stop buying every meal and get back to a routine that I can depend on.
It's easy to think that just exercise will do the trick...I mean, I will be running an average of 10 miles/week for the next three months, I should be in great shape after that, yes? Well, as I said...that's only half the battle.
p.s.---on a much different note, I have "day after first run" super sore legs, to the point where I'm practically goose-stepping my way down the street because it's too hard to walk normally. and going down steps is practically torture. oh, the things we do to get our bodies in shape, haha.
p.s.---on a much different note, I have "day after first run" super sore legs, to the point where I'm practically goose-stepping my way down the street because it's too hard to walk normally. and going down steps is practically torture. oh, the things we do to get our bodies in shape, haha.
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
Back to running...back to blogging
It's true...the time has come for me to start training again for the Philly Half Marathon. I never in a million years thought I'd be able to say that I was training for my FOURTH half marathon, but here I am. I will say...this morning was rough. All first mornings are rough though, and that is what I keep telling myself. I started off with what should have been an easy three mile run, and well...by about 1.15 miles in, my stomach was a mess. I ended up only going about 2.18, with a horrible pace, etc. But...it's the first time I've ran in months, give or take a few random times here and there. I'm ok with this start. I know I'm a horrible trainer, and I know that I've run this race three times already and my time has gotten considerably better each year. I also haven't worked out with my trainer in about a month and I'm just getting off of vacation, which means I'm definitely not in the best shape. All of this put aside...I know that as long as I stick with it, I'll make it through. For the first time in my racing history, which obviously is a long and storied history, I made a running schedule for myself. It's a bit ambitious, but completely doable. I have never ran more than 10 miles before I run the official race, and I am determined to break that streak this year. I don't have any big plans in the next two and a half months that would disrupt my training, and with a few new angels watching down from above, I have even more motivation.
Now...back to this first run of mine...while it was a hard run, it still came with some observations, such as the woman who had her shirt on inside out. No, I wasn't the Good Samaritan...I didn't stop and tell her to jump into Starbucks to switch it around, I kept on running. I have a race to train for, come on now. And of course there was a TV or movie shoot in Central Park this morning, so there was Kraft Services lined up along the sidewalk. That never makes running easy...couldn't they be so kind as to spare a danish? And then on the way back, running through the cigarette smoke of those nice gentleman stationed on their bench really helped my already tired lungs.
Now we just have to wonder what Thursday will bring.
Now...back to this first run of mine...while it was a hard run, it still came with some observations, such as the woman who had her shirt on inside out. No, I wasn't the Good Samaritan...I didn't stop and tell her to jump into Starbucks to switch it around, I kept on running. I have a race to train for, come on now. And of course there was a TV or movie shoot in Central Park this morning, so there was Kraft Services lined up along the sidewalk. That never makes running easy...couldn't they be so kind as to spare a danish? And then on the way back, running through the cigarette smoke of those nice gentleman stationed on their bench really helped my already tired lungs.
Now we just have to wonder what Thursday will bring.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
4 Miles Or Bust!
I am in a rut...a 3 mile rut, that is. My schedule has kind of been all over the place the past few weeks between jury duty and Fordham Homecoming, that I haven't been able to get myself past a 3 mile run. Yes, this is frustrating. No, I'm not letting it get me down...or at least I'm trying not to.
Last week I bought some new sneakers, and well...they're pretty schnazzy (aka blue sparkly sections on the heels!). I went back to my tennis roots, with some Mizuno running sneakers (who knew they existed?). I was excited to get in my first run with these sneakers, with dreams that they'd make me run faster and less sore. Alas, PF Flyers they are not. I went for my run this morning, and well...I was not jumping higher or running faster. I ran like I normally do. The first mile and a half were kind of hard on me, since I hadn't run in a week and the stop and go nature of city running isn't always easy. I then got my sh*& together and decided to run full force back. I was able to pick up my speed on the second half and felt better knowing I was still on my normal pace, even after a horrible first half of my run.
I have been getting slightly discouraged with how hard it still is to get out of bed, and how I am not at the mileage I'd like to be. I realized this morning while running (because what else can you do while running but think) that I have put some large expectations on myself since this is the second time I'm doing this. While yes, I'd love to better my time and truly run in a more efficient and comfortable manner, I need to realize that I am still me and I can only do my best. Running is not something that comes natural to me (as I always say, I always played defense in all of my sports...I hit people, I never ran after them), and the fact that I am doing this at all if a major feat for me. I need to remember to have fun and just keep that picture of the little guy in my head. So, on Thursday I will run 4 miles...that is a promise to myself. I will get out of this 3 mile slump and continue having fun in the process.
peace and new shoes!
Last week I bought some new sneakers, and well...they're pretty schnazzy (aka blue sparkly sections on the heels!). I went back to my tennis roots, with some Mizuno running sneakers (who knew they existed?). I was excited to get in my first run with these sneakers, with dreams that they'd make me run faster and less sore. Alas, PF Flyers they are not. I went for my run this morning, and well...I was not jumping higher or running faster. I ran like I normally do. The first mile and a half were kind of hard on me, since I hadn't run in a week and the stop and go nature of city running isn't always easy. I then got my sh*& together and decided to run full force back. I was able to pick up my speed on the second half and felt better knowing I was still on my normal pace, even after a horrible first half of my run.
I have been getting slightly discouraged with how hard it still is to get out of bed, and how I am not at the mileage I'd like to be. I realized this morning while running (because what else can you do while running but think) that I have put some large expectations on myself since this is the second time I'm doing this. While yes, I'd love to better my time and truly run in a more efficient and comfortable manner, I need to realize that I am still me and I can only do my best. Running is not something that comes natural to me (as I always say, I always played defense in all of my sports...I hit people, I never ran after them), and the fact that I am doing this at all if a major feat for me. I need to remember to have fun and just keep that picture of the little guy in my head. So, on Thursday I will run 4 miles...that is a promise to myself. I will get out of this 3 mile slump and continue having fun in the process.
peace and new shoes!
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Am I Crazy Or What?
This is the question I have been constantly asking myself in the past two weeks since I finished the sprint triathlon. Why may I be asking this? Because the Tuesday after the tri marked 10 weeks until the half marathon! Yup, that's right...that Tuesday morning I dragged myself out of bed and ran 3 miles. Painful? Yes, but I'm excited. I have so far ran 12 miles in my training (I'll admit, I skipped what was supposed to be a 4 mile run this past Sunday). I feel pretty good, and yesterday I kept my best 3 mile pace yet.
So yes, the running/training for the Philly Half Marathon has started. I think having the tri to lead into this helped a bit, since I was already in the mindset of running, etc. The weather has turned fall-like (although today not so much), so it's been gorgeous running in 65 degree weather in the mornings. It's sad, but I almost can't wait to be able to put my running pants on, but I will hold out as long as I can.
One exciting thing coming up is new sneakers! Payday is tomorrow and new sneakers are on the horizon. I'm hoping they'll help my ankles, knees, hips, haha...sometimes I feel as if I have the body of a 70 year old. I'm also going to look into orthotics, as I've heard they may help as well.
One morning last week while I was out I decided that running in New York City can sometimes be cruel. Why is that Sonny?...you may ask. For anyone that has lived in or visited New York, you know that the city is one big TV/movie set. There are production trucks parked everywhere anyday of the week. What comes along with productions trucks? Craft Services trucks. See where I'm going with this? Last week I was running down Central Park West one morning and had to run by a Craft Services truck with all of their food set out. Not very nice to do to a hungry runner who still has 1 1/2 miles left in their run, haha.
Yesterday I did my 3 mile run in the morning and actually got yelled at by a woman on the sidewalk! I kind of laughed, because in my head I made up a story that she was jealous that she couldn't run as well as I could, hahaha. She yelled at me because I ran in between her and a light pole, granted the space I ran in was at least three feet wide, so she was not in jeopardy of being hit in the slightest. I found it funny beyond anything else, and I've decided that people yell unnecessarily way too much in New York. I wish they could get fined for unnecessary yelling, instead of honking, because really...who ever gets fined for honking?
We have a great group running with us this year and the fundraising efforts have doubled with an event in Philly and NYC! We are getting off to a great start and I am beyond excited to do all of this for the little guy yet again, and also hopefully better my time from last year.
So...thank you all again for you support! Keep on keeping on...
peace and happy first day of fall!!!
So yes, the running/training for the Philly Half Marathon has started. I think having the tri to lead into this helped a bit, since I was already in the mindset of running, etc. The weather has turned fall-like (although today not so much), so it's been gorgeous running in 65 degree weather in the mornings. It's sad, but I almost can't wait to be able to put my running pants on, but I will hold out as long as I can.
One exciting thing coming up is new sneakers! Payday is tomorrow and new sneakers are on the horizon. I'm hoping they'll help my ankles, knees, hips, haha...sometimes I feel as if I have the body of a 70 year old. I'm also going to look into orthotics, as I've heard they may help as well.
One morning last week while I was out I decided that running in New York City can sometimes be cruel. Why is that Sonny?...you may ask. For anyone that has lived in or visited New York, you know that the city is one big TV/movie set. There are production trucks parked everywhere anyday of the week. What comes along with productions trucks? Craft Services trucks. See where I'm going with this? Last week I was running down Central Park West one morning and had to run by a Craft Services truck with all of their food set out. Not very nice to do to a hungry runner who still has 1 1/2 miles left in their run, haha.
Yesterday I did my 3 mile run in the morning and actually got yelled at by a woman on the sidewalk! I kind of laughed, because in my head I made up a story that she was jealous that she couldn't run as well as I could, hahaha. She yelled at me because I ran in between her and a light pole, granted the space I ran in was at least three feet wide, so she was not in jeopardy of being hit in the slightest. I found it funny beyond anything else, and I've decided that people yell unnecessarily way too much in New York. I wish they could get fined for unnecessary yelling, instead of honking, because really...who ever gets fined for honking?
We have a great group running with us this year and the fundraising efforts have doubled with an event in Philly and NYC! We are getting off to a great start and I am beyond excited to do all of this for the little guy yet again, and also hopefully better my time from last year.
So...thank you all again for you support! Keep on keeping on...
peace and happy first day of fall!!!
I'm A Triathlete!!!!
That's right...two weeks ago I completed the HV Sprint Triathlon in Danbury, CT. I am still amazed at how quickly that day came and went. My mom drove me to the lake that morning around 6:00a.m. and the nerves came with me. I had to check in my bike, get my swim cap and have my number written on my arm (291). We were doing a lot with Team Juju production stuff early on, getting pep talks from our trainers, etc. I went and felt the water - it was warm thankfully.
As the start time was getting closer I really wasn't sure what I had gotten myself into. I knew that I could do it, but I had no idea what I had in store.
The gun goes off and the swim starts. They didn't stagger the waves very well, so we were all pretty much on top of each other. This was very scary and in the first 50 yards I was starting to gulp down water and gasp for air. Turning at the first buoy was quite a nightmare as well, seeing that I made the silly choice of being on the inside of the corner and everyone came in on me as they made their turn. Note to self for next time, definitely go to the outside lane. I decided to then take my time and do whatever I could to get through the swim without having to grab onto the boat used for safety or one of the kayaks. I wanted to do this on my own, no matter how long that took. I finally got out of the water and headed to the transition area to get ready for the bike.
The bike...I definitely didn't take training as serious as I should have and that became very apparent early on in the bike leg. I started out strong and then wham! There was the biggest hill right in my way that absolutely killed my legs. I eventually got up the hill and continued on my way. For the first time I was actually thankful for my 12 year old mountain bike. The roads in this neighborhood were full of potholes and I can't imagine being on a road bike. At one point I was going pretty fast down a bumpy road and I was jostling so much that the cage holding my water bottle broke off, my water bottle fell to the ground and I ran over it! That was it...only about 1 1/2-2 miles in and I was lacking my water supply. Eventually I made it through the first loop, dreading facing that hill again and just kept going. I was finally done the bike!
When I went back into the transition area to put my bike back and get ready for the run, people were already finished the race. A little disheartening, yes, but I kept going. As soon as I got off the bike my legs were jelly. I knew I could keep going, I had to finish, and I knew I had those three miles of the run left in me. I continued on through the neighborhood pretty much alone, as I had been for most of the race, and could hear the music from the finish line. I reached the turn around point, went down a straigtaway and saw the water of the lake in the distance. This is when I almost lost it. I started to tear up and the emotions were taking over. I couldn't believe that I was finishing a sprint triathlon and I was so close to that finish line.
Even though I finished pretty close to last, it was still an amazing experience. My parents and Trey were there waiting for me at the finish line and that made it all worth it. Now that I know I can actually do this, my competitive instincts have kicked in and I want to do another sprint triathlon in April, take the training seriously and get better times.
It was a great time, but as I said...I cannot believe how quickly it came and went.
Peace and happy swim/bike/running!
As the start time was getting closer I really wasn't sure what I had gotten myself into. I knew that I could do it, but I had no idea what I had in store.
The gun goes off and the swim starts. They didn't stagger the waves very well, so we were all pretty much on top of each other. This was very scary and in the first 50 yards I was starting to gulp down water and gasp for air. Turning at the first buoy was quite a nightmare as well, seeing that I made the silly choice of being on the inside of the corner and everyone came in on me as they made their turn. Note to self for next time, definitely go to the outside lane. I decided to then take my time and do whatever I could to get through the swim without having to grab onto the boat used for safety or one of the kayaks. I wanted to do this on my own, no matter how long that took. I finally got out of the water and headed to the transition area to get ready for the bike.
The bike...I definitely didn't take training as serious as I should have and that became very apparent early on in the bike leg. I started out strong and then wham! There was the biggest hill right in my way that absolutely killed my legs. I eventually got up the hill and continued on my way. For the first time I was actually thankful for my 12 year old mountain bike. The roads in this neighborhood were full of potholes and I can't imagine being on a road bike. At one point I was going pretty fast down a bumpy road and I was jostling so much that the cage holding my water bottle broke off, my water bottle fell to the ground and I ran over it! That was it...only about 1 1/2-2 miles in and I was lacking my water supply. Eventually I made it through the first loop, dreading facing that hill again and just kept going. I was finally done the bike!
When I went back into the transition area to put my bike back and get ready for the run, people were already finished the race. A little disheartening, yes, but I kept going. As soon as I got off the bike my legs were jelly. I knew I could keep going, I had to finish, and I knew I had those three miles of the run left in me. I continued on through the neighborhood pretty much alone, as I had been for most of the race, and could hear the music from the finish line. I reached the turn around point, went down a straigtaway and saw the water of the lake in the distance. This is when I almost lost it. I started to tear up and the emotions were taking over. I couldn't believe that I was finishing a sprint triathlon and I was so close to that finish line.
Even though I finished pretty close to last, it was still an amazing experience. My parents and Trey were there waiting for me at the finish line and that made it all worth it. Now that I know I can actually do this, my competitive instincts have kicked in and I want to do another sprint triathlon in April, take the training seriously and get better times.
It was a great time, but as I said...I cannot believe how quickly it came and went.
Peace and happy swim/bike/running!
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
A Little Runner Is Hiding Inside Of Me
It's true...Thursday I was completely dedicated to the fact that I'd go home and run after work. By mid-afternoon I was seriously questioning my sanity, but when I got home, I got changed right away and headed out. The night before I had just run in my neighborhood and decided I liked that ten times more than my usual route of simply running straight down Frederick Douglass (my street) until I came along Central Park and then turned around. That route has been getting boring. So Thursday I set out among my neighborhood, South Harlem/Morningside. I ran down along Morningside Park and through the streets of South Harlem. One of the major motivators was the fact that it was an absolutely gorgeous night. I honestly wore a long sleeved running shirt, it felt like fall was right around the corner.
Luckily, for these runs, my phone (Droid) has an app that will map where you run and keep your pace and how far you're going, etc. This helps me so much, because while we all think 20 blocks is a mile, really...how are we supposed to know?
So as I ran I felt good. I was keeping a steady pace and was just letting the blocks go by me. The only thing that kept nagging at me was the fact that the Mr. Softee truck was honestly following me, ha. Every block I turned down I could hear the familiar jingle coming through its' P.A. system, just urging me to keep running away from it. It wasn't until the end of my second mile that my hip started hurting, which was pretty good for me for now. My goal for the night was two miles, so I was set. As I checked my phone to relay back to me the details of my run I saw that I had averaged a 10:40 mile, which is honestly unheard of for me, so that was incredibly encouraging. Now, I understand I only did two miles and it may be easy to keep that pace for 2-3 miles, but still...I was excited. For the sprint I'm figuring that three miles isn't that far and you can keep a fast pace and just push through. It's not like for the half or a full where you really do have to pace yourself. But, in the end I'm also thinking that if I can start my training with a 10:40 mile, I am well on my way to bettering my time! So, all positive things.
And now the sprint is in a week and a half and I'm still probably not as ready as I should/could be, but...I've never been one to back down from a challenge. We got our team uniforms last week and I now look like a real triathlete. What a summer this has been.
Peace, love and happy running!
Luckily, for these runs, my phone (Droid) has an app that will map where you run and keep your pace and how far you're going, etc. This helps me so much, because while we all think 20 blocks is a mile, really...how are we supposed to know?
So as I ran I felt good. I was keeping a steady pace and was just letting the blocks go by me. The only thing that kept nagging at me was the fact that the Mr. Softee truck was honestly following me, ha. Every block I turned down I could hear the familiar jingle coming through its' P.A. system, just urging me to keep running away from it. It wasn't until the end of my second mile that my hip started hurting, which was pretty good for me for now. My goal for the night was two miles, so I was set. As I checked my phone to relay back to me the details of my run I saw that I had averaged a 10:40 mile, which is honestly unheard of for me, so that was incredibly encouraging. Now, I understand I only did two miles and it may be easy to keep that pace for 2-3 miles, but still...I was excited. For the sprint I'm figuring that three miles isn't that far and you can keep a fast pace and just push through. It's not like for the half or a full where you really do have to pace yourself. But, in the end I'm also thinking that if I can start my training with a 10:40 mile, I am well on my way to bettering my time! So, all positive things.
And now the sprint is in a week and a half and I'm still probably not as ready as I should/could be, but...I've never been one to back down from a challenge. We got our team uniforms last week and I now look like a real triathlete. What a summer this has been.
Peace, love and happy running!
Is My Bike A Death Trap?
This was the question of the evening last Tuesday when my friend Sean, who is an avid bike rider, came to give my bike a once over to make sure it won't kill me on race day. Well, he was able to do a few things to it, such as make the brakes tighter and give me a few more gears that I had lost throughout the years. Let me preface this by saying that my bike is at least twelve years old and is a mountain bike. Definitely nothing one should really be riding in a road race, but oh well. The new bike will have to wait until Christmas.
So...I was very grateful for Sean's expertise to come and help keep me safe, and I promised him I'd stop riding this bike after the race to limit my chances of getting killed, haha.
Wednesday I was excited to try out my improved bike. Having brakes that actually work right away is pretty thrilling stuff. The entire day at work I tried to keep up the momentum, knowing that I'd have to go home first before heading out to ride. Knowing myself, heading home before doing anything is pretty dangerous. The couch is just so comfy, and really...there is always some mindnumbing television just calling my name. Not today though. I was able to pull through, go get changed and get my bike out there for the world to see.
Unfortunately two blocks into my ride I think I lost one of the gears Sean had just given me the previous night. Major blow to the motivation. I also have a major problem with my route. I enter Central Park at the top right before the Great Hill, and pretty much use every last bit of energy getting up that hill. I didn't hit a good stride until the E. 70's and by that point I was almost done. The next time I do this, I am going to enter the park at 96th St. so that I am not faced with the hill right off the bat. We'll see if that makes the difference that I'm expecting it to.
So yes...I continued around the park at an okay pace. I'm definitely not going as fast as I'd like, but that's okay. I'm not dying, and I'm not falling off my bike. Those two things alone equal success. I used my gears to the best of my abilities and tried to make it easier on myself when I could. From what I have heard of the bike portion of the sprint, the course is the hardest leg of the swim, bike, run. Go figure. While I was riding around Central Park, I had it in my head to do two laps, but by the time I reached the top of the park it was starting to get dark and "mind over matter" was nowhere to be found. So I exited the park and headed home. In all I bike 7 miles (or so) and was happy with it. Again, not the time I'd like, but that's alright.
When I was done I took a walk and called my mom. After the phone conversation I had just walked a half mile, so I decided to run the second half back to the grocery store to pick up some dinner. It felt good, and I felt somewhat accomplished. Definitely more biking to be done this week though. My goal is to do two laps, it's a must.
Happy biking!
So...I was very grateful for Sean's expertise to come and help keep me safe, and I promised him I'd stop riding this bike after the race to limit my chances of getting killed, haha.
Wednesday I was excited to try out my improved bike. Having brakes that actually work right away is pretty thrilling stuff. The entire day at work I tried to keep up the momentum, knowing that I'd have to go home first before heading out to ride. Knowing myself, heading home before doing anything is pretty dangerous. The couch is just so comfy, and really...there is always some mindnumbing television just calling my name. Not today though. I was able to pull through, go get changed and get my bike out there for the world to see.
Unfortunately two blocks into my ride I think I lost one of the gears Sean had just given me the previous night. Major blow to the motivation. I also have a major problem with my route. I enter Central Park at the top right before the Great Hill, and pretty much use every last bit of energy getting up that hill. I didn't hit a good stride until the E. 70's and by that point I was almost done. The next time I do this, I am going to enter the park at 96th St. so that I am not faced with the hill right off the bat. We'll see if that makes the difference that I'm expecting it to.
So yes...I continued around the park at an okay pace. I'm definitely not going as fast as I'd like, but that's okay. I'm not dying, and I'm not falling off my bike. Those two things alone equal success. I used my gears to the best of my abilities and tried to make it easier on myself when I could. From what I have heard of the bike portion of the sprint, the course is the hardest leg of the swim, bike, run. Go figure. While I was riding around Central Park, I had it in my head to do two laps, but by the time I reached the top of the park it was starting to get dark and "mind over matter" was nowhere to be found. So I exited the park and headed home. In all I bike 7 miles (or so) and was happy with it. Again, not the time I'd like, but that's alright.
When I was done I took a walk and called my mom. After the phone conversation I had just walked a half mile, so I decided to run the second half back to the grocery store to pick up some dinner. It felt good, and I felt somewhat accomplished. Definitely more biking to be done this week though. My goal is to do two laps, it's a must.
Happy biking!
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Don't Run Up An Escalator
Yes...that is exactly what I did on July 5th in Boston that caused me to go to the ER and get a stitch in my knee. I have not run in the past month and a half because of this injury and this morning I thought it was time. I wasn't sure what to expect, so I opted just to do 1.5miles. Nice and easy, right? I'll admit that since I knew this wouldn't take very long, I still slept a bit later than the usual workout wakeup time. I got dressed and felt ready. My new cell phone has an app on it that can track your run...super handy. So I took my phone and my water bottle and headed out to my concrete track. And...two blocks later my hair started to fall out of the ponytail, ha. So I then had to immediately stop, fix the hair (so important to have a tight ponytail while running, ha) and continue.
As I was running the pain in my knee was front and center. I knew it'd be there, just wasn't sure how bad. I definitely was able to run through it and just knew it'd be sore the rest of the day. I could feel myself correcting my gait to protect my knee, something I'm not too fond of doing. I also noticed that my endurance isn't exactly where it was a month and a half ago. While I have been swimming and biking every so often, endurance is different for every exercise. I was a little disappointed, because I was only doing 30 blocks, 1.5 miles (or 1.63 according to my phone, ha), and I was winded...ready to just stop and walk. I continued on at my pace, my average minute per mile being around 12, which is pretty good for me (I know, I'm a crap runner, you'll have to get used to it, ha), and I pulled through.
One thing I can say about me and exercise is this...my face reddens extremely fast and stays that way for quite a while. When I got home and upstairs I could feel the fire that was my face. I used to get pulled out of sports games when I was little because my coaches thought I was about to pass out, I cannot control the fact that blood loves to rush to my face, ha. Today, however, I knew it was different. I have to accept the fact that I'm just starting out running again and it'll take me a few tries to get up to where I was. My knee is sore today, but not nearly as sore as I thought it would be. I can run through the pain and keel over afterwards, at least that's what I think I can do, ha.
My training for this sprint triathlon definitely hasn't been what it could have been, and I blame some of that on Boston's South Station escalator, but I know most of the responsibility lays on me. We'll see how I do on that day, but for now I'm glad I got out and ran and still have it in me. Every little bit at a time.
And to end this post, a fun fact for the day: The Camp Rock 2 premiere is across the street from my office at the moment and the red carpet hoopla is happening right now. Let me tell you, there is nothing like hundreds of teenage girls screaming every five seconds. It really warms the heart.
As I was running the pain in my knee was front and center. I knew it'd be there, just wasn't sure how bad. I definitely was able to run through it and just knew it'd be sore the rest of the day. I could feel myself correcting my gait to protect my knee, something I'm not too fond of doing. I also noticed that my endurance isn't exactly where it was a month and a half ago. While I have been swimming and biking every so often, endurance is different for every exercise. I was a little disappointed, because I was only doing 30 blocks, 1.5 miles (or 1.63 according to my phone, ha), and I was winded...ready to just stop and walk. I continued on at my pace, my average minute per mile being around 12, which is pretty good for me (I know, I'm a crap runner, you'll have to get used to it, ha), and I pulled through.
One thing I can say about me and exercise is this...my face reddens extremely fast and stays that way for quite a while. When I got home and upstairs I could feel the fire that was my face. I used to get pulled out of sports games when I was little because my coaches thought I was about to pass out, I cannot control the fact that blood loves to rush to my face, ha. Today, however, I knew it was different. I have to accept the fact that I'm just starting out running again and it'll take me a few tries to get up to where I was. My knee is sore today, but not nearly as sore as I thought it would be. I can run through the pain and keel over afterwards, at least that's what I think I can do, ha.
My training for this sprint triathlon definitely hasn't been what it could have been, and I blame some of that on Boston's South Station escalator, but I know most of the responsibility lays on me. We'll see how I do on that day, but for now I'm glad I got out and ran and still have it in me. Every little bit at a time.
And to end this post, a fun fact for the day: The Camp Rock 2 premiere is across the street from my office at the moment and the red carpet hoopla is happening right now. Let me tell you, there is nothing like hundreds of teenage girls screaming every five seconds. It really warms the heart.
Monday, August 16, 2010
Rainy Days Are Not Good Motivation
Going to bed last Wednesday night I had it in my mind that I'd wake up early the next morning, go to the Y and do both some swimming and biking. This sounded like an amazing idea and I was ready to be so proud of myself as I envisioned my morning taking place.
Thursday morning I woke up at 7, I was ready to go...and then somehow I hit the snooze button (again, and again, and again). All of a sudden it was 9a.m. and I had no motivation to go anywhere. The pretty picture of me feeling refreshed and energized leaving the Y had gone, making way for the even better picture of laying in bed on a wonderful rainy day. Needless to say, mind over matter did not take over on this fateful morning and there I was, laying in bed, not moving...at all.
So yes...Thursday was disappointing. I realize I haven't pushed myself nearly as much as I should have been for this sprint triathlon and who knows how I shall fare. This week I'm not feeling the best, but hoping to get some biking in, and possibly...just possibly, start running! Scary, I know. First, a trip to CVS/Duane Reade/Rite Aid (whichever of the big three is closest at the time) to get a knee brace that isn't from 7th grade. Not that I've really grown, but I figure I should update the darn thing, ha.
Hopefully the motivation will return tomorrow and I shall have more inspiring words...definitely something better than "I stayed in bed."
Until then...peace and happy swimming/biking/running!
Thursday morning I woke up at 7, I was ready to go...and then somehow I hit the snooze button (again, and again, and again). All of a sudden it was 9a.m. and I had no motivation to go anywhere. The pretty picture of me feeling refreshed and energized leaving the Y had gone, making way for the even better picture of laying in bed on a wonderful rainy day. Needless to say, mind over matter did not take over on this fateful morning and there I was, laying in bed, not moving...at all.
So yes...Thursday was disappointing. I realize I haven't pushed myself nearly as much as I should have been for this sprint triathlon and who knows how I shall fare. This week I'm not feeling the best, but hoping to get some biking in, and possibly...just possibly, start running! Scary, I know. First, a trip to CVS/Duane Reade/Rite Aid (whichever of the big three is closest at the time) to get a knee brace that isn't from 7th grade. Not that I've really grown, but I figure I should update the darn thing, ha.
Hopefully the motivation will return tomorrow and I shall have more inspiring words...definitely something better than "I stayed in bed."
Until then...peace and happy swimming/biking/running!
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
What's the Best Way to Start Training for a Half Marathon???
Do a sprint triathlon of course! Seriously, what was I thinking? In one month exactly I will be in Danbury, CT participating in the Housatanic Valley Sprint Triathlon. That equals a quarter mile swim in a lake, a 12 mile bike ride over some rolling hills, and a 3 mile run ending on a beach. Wow.
Yes, I've been training...if you can call it that, ha. I did start swimming again and realized that I actually like it more than I remember. I can do the quarter mile in about 12 minutes, which I don't think is too bad. I mean, at least I'm not sinking and I do take small breather breaks (or else I would be sinking).
I have not been doing nearly as much biking as I should be. I've gone around Central Park once, thankfully didn't have to get off the bike and I didn't fall over going up the Great Hill. And for those of you that don't know or are non-believers, Central Park is one large hill, both ways. There are some nice down hill moments, but not many flat areas, so I figure that's good training. I've done some biking on the stationary at the Y, but no matter how much television I watch, that is incredibly boring.
Running...the running hasn't really been there this summer. I successfully managed to hurt my knee while I was in Boston over Fourth of July (one tip: never run up an escalator. trust me, it won't turn out well). So...two hours in the ER and one stitch in the knee later I realized I wouldn't be running much this summer. Thankfully this was the one leg of the race I was the least worried about. I figure I'll try to get at least one good run in before the race and I should be fine.
I've done a few transitions (swim to bike, bike to run) and the bike to run is an interesting one. Your legs feel as if there are no bones in them, complete jelly. Kind of like the scene in Harry Potter when Harry is playing Quidditch and hurts his arm and the daft teacher (who in real life is a famous British Shakespearean actor) does a spell and takes the bones out of his harm so it's just left to flop around! Thankfully in the transition from bike to run, while that may be how my legs feel, I do not have to drink that unsavory potion to regrow my bones...poor Harry.
So yes...this is what I am doing in a month. And then Half Marathon training starts! I am doing this Sprint Triathlon with a group from work, which makes it a lot easier with training. It's always nice when you have a group, so you can commiserate about training and joke about how bad we all feel we're going to do. Thankfully I'm still alive and I'm pretty confident. I just have to make sure my bike is up to snuff (it'd probably be a good thing if the tire held air longer than a few rounds of pedaling). But I think I'll be alright. In all reality, ask me September 12th and I'll let you know if I'm walking yet.
Yes, I've been training...if you can call it that, ha. I did start swimming again and realized that I actually like it more than I remember. I can do the quarter mile in about 12 minutes, which I don't think is too bad. I mean, at least I'm not sinking and I do take small breather breaks (or else I would be sinking).
I have not been doing nearly as much biking as I should be. I've gone around Central Park once, thankfully didn't have to get off the bike and I didn't fall over going up the Great Hill. And for those of you that don't know or are non-believers, Central Park is one large hill, both ways. There are some nice down hill moments, but not many flat areas, so I figure that's good training. I've done some biking on the stationary at the Y, but no matter how much television I watch, that is incredibly boring.
Running...the running hasn't really been there this summer. I successfully managed to hurt my knee while I was in Boston over Fourth of July (one tip: never run up an escalator. trust me, it won't turn out well). So...two hours in the ER and one stitch in the knee later I realized I wouldn't be running much this summer. Thankfully this was the one leg of the race I was the least worried about. I figure I'll try to get at least one good run in before the race and I should be fine.
I've done a few transitions (swim to bike, bike to run) and the bike to run is an interesting one. Your legs feel as if there are no bones in them, complete jelly. Kind of like the scene in Harry Potter when Harry is playing Quidditch and hurts his arm and the daft teacher (who in real life is a famous British Shakespearean actor) does a spell and takes the bones out of his harm so it's just left to flop around! Thankfully in the transition from bike to run, while that may be how my legs feel, I do not have to drink that unsavory potion to regrow my bones...poor Harry.
So yes...this is what I am doing in a month. And then Half Marathon training starts! I am doing this Sprint Triathlon with a group from work, which makes it a lot easier with training. It's always nice when you have a group, so you can commiserate about training and joke about how bad we all feel we're going to do. Thankfully I'm still alive and I'm pretty confident. I just have to make sure my bike is up to snuff (it'd probably be a good thing if the tire held air longer than a few rounds of pedaling). But I think I'll be alright. In all reality, ask me September 12th and I'll let you know if I'm walking yet.
Monday, April 12, 2010
New Style for a New Year
Yes...I changed things up a bit, a little brighter for the new year. This style of page immediately jumped out at me...it's called Harbor, immediately making me think of Stone Harbor...reminding me of family...bringing me back to why we're doing this whole run in the first place.
And now it's late and I tend to get a bit wordy late at night, so I will stop.
Peace to all.
And now it's late and I tend to get a bit wordy late at night, so I will stop.
Peace to all.
And it begins!!!
Last week I received an email that made me check my calendar. Pre-registration for the Philly Half/Full Marathons has arrived! I couldn't believe it, it's only April! I really didn't think this would come until June, but it's here! It's amazing the difference of this year to last year...there is no hesitation whatsoever in wanting to sign up for the race this time around. Last year I was beyond nervous. Now I know there is nothing holding me back, especially a bum hip, and I know that I can do better.
I've been a bit sick for the past few weeks, but once this is over with I actually can't wait to get out and start running. The weather is getting nicer and the park (or preferably the river) is calling my name.
I figured I'd give a few days until I started hounding everyone to register and see who wanted to run. Well...I loved it! Dani beat me to it this morning! She had emailed out to the team that had run last year. Hopefully we'll get some of them back this year, it was a great team. We already have some new runners, which I am very excited about. After being on my support team on race day, Coll and Chris have taken up the mission as well as their friend Signe...three new runners!
My goal for this time out is to take training slowly...really slowly, stretch A LOT and run for more than two months before the race, haha. Even if I start training May 21st, that's six months...if I double my three month schedule, that would be amazingly slow and hopefully get me in great shape for the race.
Remembering the hype from last year, I am so excited for all of this to start. I'm slowly starting to think of new ways to fundraise and get the word out. It was such an exciting time last year watching the donations come in and supporting the rest of the team as our mileage increased.
So...in a few weeks running will commence for me and I will be that many steps closer to another finish line. I can barely hold the excitement in.
peace.
I've been a bit sick for the past few weeks, but once this is over with I actually can't wait to get out and start running. The weather is getting nicer and the park (or preferably the river) is calling my name.
I figured I'd give a few days until I started hounding everyone to register and see who wanted to run. Well...I loved it! Dani beat me to it this morning! She had emailed out to the team that had run last year. Hopefully we'll get some of them back this year, it was a great team. We already have some new runners, which I am very excited about. After being on my support team on race day, Coll and Chris have taken up the mission as well as their friend Signe...three new runners!
My goal for this time out is to take training slowly...really slowly, stretch A LOT and run for more than two months before the race, haha. Even if I start training May 21st, that's six months...if I double my three month schedule, that would be amazingly slow and hopefully get me in great shape for the race.
Remembering the hype from last year, I am so excited for all of this to start. I'm slowly starting to think of new ways to fundraise and get the word out. It was such an exciting time last year watching the donations come in and supporting the rest of the team as our mileage increased.
So...in a few weeks running will commence for me and I will be that many steps closer to another finish line. I can barely hold the excitement in.
peace.
I'm Back!!! Race Day Recap
It has been forever, I know. And somehow I never even got on here to recap the actual race day! Let me try to do that in so many words...
The night before the race we had all of the runners and some family over to our house for the pre-race carb load. Our cousin, John, came all the way up from South Carolina to surprise everyone and to support us in the race (or so he thought). If you've ever been around more than one Pippett at a time, you know the persuasive powers of the family. Needless to say, by the end of the night we had John convinced he was running the race with us! You can sneak into the race without being registered, and that is exactly what John did. Some may say it was easier for him to do it since he was an athletic 16 year old, but I still was incredibly impressed that he was at the door ready to be picked up at 5:45a.m. that next morning.
That morning...there are no words for the equals parts calm/chaos that were running through my stomach as we drove downtown. Jeannine got dropped off, we picked John up, and Trey was all dressed up for his birthday in his chair in front of us. As soon as we got off 476 the energy was in the air. The nerves started to wilt away as I saw more and more runners walking towards Ben Franklin Parkway, where the race was waiting to begin.
As we reached Eakins Circle (sp?) we said our goodbyes to Mom, Pops and the little guy...waited in line for one last potty break and made our way to our assigned corrals. Jeannine, the more experienced runner, was in a corral much farther ahead than John and myself. We were in the far back...basically the end of the pack, ha. But...we did find the rest of our runners! By chance I saw Aunt Becky and Aunt Beth on the sideline, looking as if they just said goodbye to their nervous runners. I tracked them down and found the pack!
The music was going and it was time...our corral began and we were off. I was able to keep up with the rest of our runners for about the first two miles and then had to continue on my own. I will say that at one point around Mile 6 I started allowing myself to think about the reason behind my running and started thinking about Trey and got a bit worked up. Well, let me know tell you...crying and running do not go together, ha...so I had to collect myself before I had an asthma attack and keep on going, ha. I was in quite a groove until we reached Fairmount Park and I said hello to a huge, unexpected hill. I tried to keep running/jogging up the hill a bit and then reality set in and I decided to walk "with purpose" up the hill. I knew if I saved my energy getting up the hill I'd be able to run some more for the last 3-4 miles.
At last...the end was in sight! I saw the Art Museum and I was running towards it! Running along the Schuykill with Manayunk on the other side of the river was such a beautiful sight. We honestly lucked out completely with the weather that morning (low-mid 40's and sunny), and the beauty certainly helped me keep going. Just as I started to round the corner for my last 200 yards or so of the race I look to the sideline and see none other than Jen DePetris (a friend from high school). I automatically screamed to her and totally took her offguard. We hugged, she said I didn't look tired at all and told me I was almost to the end. That little bit of unexpected encouragement pulled me through to the end. And I have to say, there is not much like running through those last 100 yards with screaming people on either side rooting you on. There is no way you couldn't feel like a rockstar. And I did it...I crossed the finish line. As I crossed, collected my medal and got a water I turned to my right and broke down. The entire day enveloped me as I had turned to my right and saw my own personal cheering section (Mom, Pops, Trey, Coll, Chris, Uncle Dennis, Michelle and Jeannine). That feeling is something I will never forget and I cannot wait for it all over again in November!
The night before the race we had all of the runners and some family over to our house for the pre-race carb load. Our cousin, John, came all the way up from South Carolina to surprise everyone and to support us in the race (or so he thought). If you've ever been around more than one Pippett at a time, you know the persuasive powers of the family. Needless to say, by the end of the night we had John convinced he was running the race with us! You can sneak into the race without being registered, and that is exactly what John did. Some may say it was easier for him to do it since he was an athletic 16 year old, but I still was incredibly impressed that he was at the door ready to be picked up at 5:45a.m. that next morning.
That morning...there are no words for the equals parts calm/chaos that were running through my stomach as we drove downtown. Jeannine got dropped off, we picked John up, and Trey was all dressed up for his birthday in his chair in front of us. As soon as we got off 476 the energy was in the air. The nerves started to wilt away as I saw more and more runners walking towards Ben Franklin Parkway, where the race was waiting to begin.
As we reached Eakins Circle (sp?) we said our goodbyes to Mom, Pops and the little guy...waited in line for one last potty break and made our way to our assigned corrals. Jeannine, the more experienced runner, was in a corral much farther ahead than John and myself. We were in the far back...basically the end of the pack, ha. But...we did find the rest of our runners! By chance I saw Aunt Becky and Aunt Beth on the sideline, looking as if they just said goodbye to their nervous runners. I tracked them down and found the pack!
The music was going and it was time...our corral began and we were off. I was able to keep up with the rest of our runners for about the first two miles and then had to continue on my own. I will say that at one point around Mile 6 I started allowing myself to think about the reason behind my running and started thinking about Trey and got a bit worked up. Well, let me know tell you...crying and running do not go together, ha...so I had to collect myself before I had an asthma attack and keep on going, ha. I was in quite a groove until we reached Fairmount Park and I said hello to a huge, unexpected hill. I tried to keep running/jogging up the hill a bit and then reality set in and I decided to walk "with purpose" up the hill. I knew if I saved my energy getting up the hill I'd be able to run some more for the last 3-4 miles.
At last...the end was in sight! I saw the Art Museum and I was running towards it! Running along the Schuykill with Manayunk on the other side of the river was such a beautiful sight. We honestly lucked out completely with the weather that morning (low-mid 40's and sunny), and the beauty certainly helped me keep going. Just as I started to round the corner for my last 200 yards or so of the race I look to the sideline and see none other than Jen DePetris (a friend from high school). I automatically screamed to her and totally took her offguard. We hugged, she said I didn't look tired at all and told me I was almost to the end. That little bit of unexpected encouragement pulled me through to the end. And I have to say, there is not much like running through those last 100 yards with screaming people on either side rooting you on. There is no way you couldn't feel like a rockstar. And I did it...I crossed the finish line. As I crossed, collected my medal and got a water I turned to my right and broke down. The entire day enveloped me as I had turned to my right and saw my own personal cheering section (Mom, Pops, Trey, Coll, Chris, Uncle Dennis, Michelle and Jeannine). That feeling is something I will never forget and I cannot wait for it all over again in November!
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