Although I haven't been running like mad, I sure have been active. Between biking, hiking, and running, I have had one active and full-of-fun summer!

On Sunday, I did a little 5k race down in Freemont. It was the Oktoberfest Brew-Ha-Ha 5k. Very fun little race! I haven't seen my official time, (approx 30 min.) but it wasn't great. There were hoards of people and tough to get around them. I wasn't after time though.. just fun. :)

Today I went to the climbing gym. Climbing really fun! I liked the high ropes, but what I really had a blast doing was bouldering. I just couldn't get enough! My arms were like jello by the time I finished, and you know me, that means I've had A LOT of fun! lol The problem solving required in the bouldering is really what sucks me in.. I think my stubborness actually came in handy! I couldn't believe how sweaty I got! Man.. I can't wait to go again! This doesn't mean I wont run anymore lol, I'm just always happy when I find another form of exercise/entertainment. :)

Oh, I forgot to mention.. I went on a night run the other day. I really like running at night. It is so freeing! I ran with my hair down, and enjoyed the way it felt as it whipped around in the wind. I'm never going short again.. long hair is just way too much fun! :)

I have been in a running slump. For the past 2 weeks, I have been trying to get out of it. I think I am feeling more positive... Last week I put in 23 miles, which isn't what I was putting in at the end of spring/early summer, but it is a decent improvement. My shot at the half this Sunday is pretty much shot though. Not only am I not really ready, but I'm broke lol. I can't justify paying a reg fee when I am worried about bills and food. lol Oh well.

On Friday night, I had a great 5 mile run on the treadmill. On Saturday morning, I ran Bridal Trails with Jon. It was pouring, but it was still fun. I did struggle, and I had to walk some on the hills. Monday morning I ran 5miles plus change with Jon, and that went fairly well. He is so encouraging to run with. I'm glad we have started to run together again. :)

Goal #4: Climb Mt St Helens

Where do I begin?? I suppose I can start by crossing "Climb Mt St Helens" off my goal list!

You know what the worst part of a break-up is?... It is the loss of the future.. the loss of plans made. It's not really a secret that I went through a very painful break-up earlier this year. Jon and I had made many plans together... plans that had meaning to me. I can't tell you how painful it was for me to go through my calendar and delete our future.

Not only was Climbing Mt St Helens on my Year of Thirty-One goal list, but it was one of our plans. In the beginning, I had thought, "Fuck it! He isn't going to hold me back! I'm going to go alone!" but my friends and especially the boys didn't want me to. Eventually, a friend of mine offered to go with me. Unfortunately, he couldn't commit to any firm plans, and it was a no-go. I started to think that maybe it just wasn't meant to be, and soon all of the permits for the summer were sold out. About two weeks(?) ago, I had spoken to Jon about the Helens trip. I had wanted to know which trail he had used before and so on. He had mentioned a web site where people would sell permits they weren't going to be able to use. All of last week while I was sick, I thought about how Mt St Helens was the last thing to do on my goal list. How could I not do it?? So I called him on Thursday, asked for a link to the web site he had mentioned before. During the course of the conversation I realized that what I really wanted, was do the climb with him.. so I asked, and he said yes. I'm not sure I understand completely why it was so important that he was the one to go with me... I think it may have had a lot to do with my need for closure... Things fell magically in place from there. He got a sitter for his kids, I traded a day with Eric, and I found a guy with permits for sale.

The climb up the mountain was truly amazing. The view from the top was breathtaking. Finishing off the last goal on my Year of 31 list on the top of a mountain, on a beautiful sunny day,.. it was positively spiritual! Something else happened up there though... I let go of all my "Jon shit." We ran like maniacs all the way down the mountain. The details I am going to keep private, but I will say that the trip brought us healing, understanding, and forgiveness. It was interesting.. we both needed to climb that mountain together.

Closure FTW!

The Year of Thirty-one

Definition: The year in which Alyssa embraces Alyssa, gets to know Alyssa, strives to improve Alyssa, and pays some attention to Alyssa.

It's about G-damn time, isn't it??

As my 32nd birthday rapidly approaches (in about a month and a half) I think that it is important for me to reflect on some things; the goals that I made for myself this year, in particular.

1. Go on an actual vacation.
Done! I went to Hawaii without kids in March of this year. I had a ridiculous amount of fun hiking, running, snorkeling, kayaking, and camping.

2. Start running and do a 5k.
Done! I did my first 5k in Hawaii on March 22, 2009 in Hilo, Hawaii. I did another 5k in May in Kirkland, an 8k in May in Seattle, and a 10k in August in Woodinville.

2a. Amendment to 2. Run a half marathon.
Done! I ran my first half marathon on June 20, 2009 in Burlington. It was one of the greatest moments of my life. I am planning to run another half in September.

3. Clean the attic.
Done! I did it back in.. shoot.. the spring, I think. My house is a freaking mess right now though.. not even sure if I should credit on this one. LOL

4. Hike up Mt. St. Helens.
TBA... I'm working on this one.

5. Take a personal inventory (ie. deal with my shit).
This was certain to be quite the undertaking! lol. I started the process back in December and January... It was a lot more work that I had bargained for! I needed a slight break from such rigorous self examination, but am pleased to report that I have been actively working on it diligently since late May. It sucks ass. Pardon my French in #5, but it goes with the territory. Fuck off if you don't like it. Er.. uh.. moving along...

6. Get a puppy for the kids (and me hehe.)
Done! I love you Legolas!

7. Step out of my "box."
I don't know if I have done this one or not. I think I have.. I feel like I have taken some risks.. I allowed myself to finally fall deeply in love with someone. Unfortunately, he ripped out my heart and it is most likely irreparably broken. Good times. No worries folks, I'm doing ok on that one. See goal #5. That should help, eh? I also volunteered at Camp Orkila for a week and took the kids with me. I have a hard time taking risks when it comes to Matt. I was so scared that him going to camp would be a disaster for him, that the kids would just tease him and he would feel even more isolated from the world. I prayed my little heart out and listened for my answer. Funny how a little listening can go a long way. He did beautifully. What Camp Orkila did for my baby that week was truly of divine proportion. I also bought two pink shirts. (Trust me, that's huge.)

8. Look into going back to school.
Ugh! Ok, so I looked into it! I went to see a person at the community college. She was a moron. (I'm projecting) Now shut up about it, because I'm not ready!

So there you have it. I think I have come far in many ways. I feel behind in others... I'm thinking of having a "Year of 32." I can continue working on the ongoing goals of my current list, and of course add some new ones.

Comments and suggestions welcome.

Focus Focus Focus!!!

Alright, so I think we all know I have lost some focus in the past several weeks. First, I had a 4 day migraine, then my family was in town, followed by 2 weeks of 90-100+ degree weather, and then, CAMP! I've put on 13 frickin' pounds! Can I just say.. WTF??

So now that I am back from vacation, it is time to regain some focus. Today I went to the gym and ran 5.67 miles in an hour. It went well, other than the right shin muscle pain. What is that shin muscle pain all about anyway?? It bothered me so much on a run on Orcas Island during my vacation, that I couldn't even walk and was forced to sit down for 15 minutes on the side of the road! Hmmm...

I did manage to find a running partner. I found her on Craigslist. She and I have only run once together, but I enjoyed it. She is out of town this weekend, but next week I am hoping to get together a few times and run.

Tomorrow is the Covey Run for Children's Hospital. I feel unprepared, but I think I am going to show up and run the race anyway. It is a good cause and I need a good prod in the rear. I plan to run it nice and easy, as I have a yucky cold, and I am a little out of shape since I have been slacking in the training dept.. (and eating like a pig!) There is a 5k or 10k... we will see...

Weekend warrior!

I ran a lot over the weekend! My goal for Saturday was to run 9 miles. I did 3.5 miles, but then had to stop. It was way too hot to run. I waited for the day to cool and ran an additional 6 miles. Great run, actually. Even threw in some hills! My goal for Sunday was 14 miles. I ran from Seward Park to Broadmoore along the lake on the boulevard, and then ran up Madison. What a freaking ridiculous hill. I was feeling kind of whiny by the time I reached the top lol. Then I hopped back on the Blvd, passed The Bush School, and ran back the rest of the way along the lake. My friend Jim accompanied me on his bike. Poor guy. It was raining like mad, but he was a good sport. It's nice to have company on the long runs... and someone to carry all my shit! lol The run left good, though. Knees were good. My left ankle did some popping at about mile 12-ish. I had trouble at mile 10 again. I felt like crying... but I pulled myself together, remembered the 'why' in it all. I ended up running 13.58 miles in 2 hrs 18 mins. I took 6 minutes off of my half, even (2:20 to 2:14!)

My left knee doesn't really hurt, persay... but it is huge and fluid-filled. That makes me somewhat concerned... What to do? What to do?

Total mileage last week: 36.35 miles.

"The soul would have no rainbow had the eyes no tears."
~No idea.

July 9, 2009

I worked on my training schedule last night. Wow. This is going to be hard! LOL I ran home from work yesterday. I ran hard, felt great, and my knees held up splendidly. I ran home the day before yesterday as well, and that run was also great. There were a lot of people on the trail yesterday. Very odd. A cop seemed to follow me for several sections of trail... He passed me at 44th, then again on the road that is between the first and second sections of the trail that come after the Park & Ride, and then again when I crossed 208th! I raised my eyebrow at him. I couldn't decide if he was being a weirdo or monitoring my safety. I may have seen him again on 212th, but I can't be sure. I'd like to think that he was just being proactive in his police protection...

Today I ran to work and then back home again after work. Both runs were great! Had a little incident on the trail this morning, though... So there is this park of the trail behind the P&R where as I have mentioned before, there is a homeless man who lives in the bushes. I have encountered him many times now over the past several months and it has always been without incident. I always keep my peper spray at the ready though. You can never be to safe. So this morning as I was approaching his little area, I see over the little fenced area his head moving, so I knew he was there. As I passed the fence, he comes strolling out onto the trail... wearing nothing but his tightie-whities! I immediately looked away and hauled ass outta there!

After much debate, I decided to call the police this evening. I spoke with a lovely officer who after some questions, knew exactly who I was talking about. He said he is a known transient and they have never had problems with him. He said he is harmless (with a disclaimer, of course) and that he is a bit "slow." He told me that he will have a chat with him, not bring me or the undies thing into it, (to protect my identity) and ask him to move camp. He also mentioned that there has never been an attack on the trail. That's good, but I am no dummy.. I will continue to be cautious. I feel very relieved. I do feel sorry for him though... It makes me think about how blessed my life is. It makes me anxious to start volunteering at the mission again... and soon.

"If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion."
~ The Dalai Lama

Announcement!

I have made a decision. I have decided to train for a FULL marathon. I have thought about this endlessly, and then finally I realized that this is something that I think I would really like to experience at least once in my life. Now seems as good a time as any, eh? I mean, I'm already trained to at least half it's distance already, and 'tis the season, is it not?! There are two marathons that I am interested in:

http://www.skagitflatsmarathon.com
This one is in Burlington on Sunday, September 13th. It is totally flat, and the course is expected to be beautiful, (not the same course though as my recent half though.) Last year there were 189 participants. Finishers will receive a "medallion." Not that I care, but it is a Boston Qualifier. Runners are given 6 hours to finish.
Cost: $70
Pros: Flat, not too far from home, cheaper, can pick up packet on day of race.
Cons: Same weekend as the Fairhaven Waterfront 15k... and I had really wanted to do this race...

http://www.bellinghambaymarathon.org/
This one is in Bellingham on Sunday, September 27th. It isn't terribly hilly as far as I can tell, but it isn't flat, either. This course is also expected to be beautiful. Some of it is on a gravel road... which can be good or bad. There were 269 finishers last year. Finishers will receive a "finisher's medal." This race is also a Boston Qualifier. Runners are given 6.5 hours to finish.
Cost: $95
Pros: More participants, more time to finish, more time to train for race.
Cons: Farther from home, pricier, must pick up packet the day before, not as flat lol.

I do not need to decide on anything yet. Training for a full marathon is going to be fairly difficult for me time-wise. Finding the time to run all those miles may be, in fact, impossible. I am going to give it my best shot, nonetheless. If kids, work, and life prevent me from being able to be ready for a full in time, then I will commit to running the half at both of these events instead. Sound fair? :)

"As every runner knows, running is about more than just putting one foot in front of the other; it is about our lifestyle and who we are."

~Joan Benoit Samuelson

Running Journal 7/5/09

Went for a phenomenal trail run today out by Dave's place. I'm not positive on the exact distance, because my Garmin decided to die within 30 seconds of leaving the house. LOL Ah well. I ran for exactly 2 hours. My pace felt like it was between a 9 and 10 minute mile on average. So.. 12 miles...? Shrug. More or less, eh. It was absolutely gorgeous out. The trail I was on goes right by the hatchery, and is called "Whitehorse Trail." The trail is flat, unpaved, but well groomed. (Lot's of horse crap, though.) It is surrounded by forest, but pops out near the Stilliguamish River here and there, and does run along the property line of a few scattered houses (some nice, and some... well.. the word "hillbillie" and the phrase "OMFG!" come to mind! LOL) Dave warned me the night earlier about some "junk yard pitbulls" that live about a mile and a half out... Lovely! That was rather.. concerning! I decided to have Duke (Dave's Lab/Collie/Pit mix) and his neighbor's Rotweiler accompany me! The 2 dogs and my pepper spray made me feel much more at ease! LOL It truely was a great run. I felt great and I simply floated down the trail in pure running bliss.

Running Journal 6/27/09

Well, I have some of the mystery solved. My left knee doesn't like my new runners. I am not sure if it would like them more with a different kind of insert, but I don't think I like them either. I'm going to take them back and try something else.. I think I liked the 8w better than the 8.5 reg anyway. I ran/walked 3.12 miles last night in my new shoe combo, and it was stupid painful. I ran the same 3.12 miles this morning in my old runners with the blue inserts, and felt improvement immediately. (The downhill still hurt though.) Later today, I ran/hiked another approx. 6 miles in my hiking shoes with the blue inserts. I'm not sure if it was the shoes, inserts, or the fact that I was running on a nice soft hiking trail, but I felt awesome! Initially I was a little sore, but it melted away. The hills; both up and down felt great. It was a very fun run! Trail running... hmmm... I can get behind that! LOL I'm thinking about pounding out another 4 miles this evening.. to make up for bailing on the RnR. Running it's equivalent in mileage today seems like a fair deal. :)

My first half marathon! 6/20/09

"Tears streamed down my face as I crossed the finish line. I was a new person, a runner."

~Thomas King, Novelist and Broadcaster

I should start by saying.. I DID IT!!! 13.1 miles: 2 hrs, 20 mins.

On Friday night, I laid out all of my gear and made a morning check list. I was all nerves! I had a terrible time getting to sleep. It was like Christmas Eve when I was a kid... except with more anxiety! LOL I got up yesterday morning at 5am, showered, dressed and got the boys up and ready. I dropped the kids off at their dad's at 6am and I was off.

I arrived in Burlington right on schedule at 7am. I got an excellent parking spot, which I think is always a good sign. :) I readied my things and then walked over to pick up my bib. I was the first runner to arrive, but shortly after, another woman showed up.. She was running the 2 mile. She, like me, was new to running. She was very proud of what she had accomplished so far. Boy, could I relate. She told me that she had made it her goal to run in a race every month. I enjoyed speaking with her and we wished each other well.

I spoke with other runners as they started to arrive. I find that other runners are so supportive of each other. As I stretched and loosened up my muscles the excitement grew. The negative worries about the race were gone, leaving only the excited butterflies and delighted anticipation. Many people wished me well and I did the same. I knew I was ready. The air was chilly, so I had decided to wear my running coat. I hated bringing it as I knew it would only be needed for the first few miles. We all stood anxiously at the starting line. The start was a few minutes late, but at the toll of a huge bell, we were off!

The first mile or 2 were not hard physically, but had more of a mental aspect. I thought about the fact that I had so many miles to go! I anxiously tried to quiet my mind, enjoy the scenery around me, and take it all in. I looked at my Garmin from time to time and was surprised at my pace. I was going faster than I had planned, yet I felt extraordinary. I couldn't help but wonder if I should slow down to conserve energy for later. I ultimately decided not to. I thought, "Why should I? I'm not racing against anyone else. If I'm tired later, I'll slow down later." There was also an element of fearing coming in last.. Ok, so I guess I was racing against someone.. the someone at the back!! LOL

Eventually, I slipped into that place.. the place where my mind drifts away and and there is no pain or number of miles to go, there is only peace. This place is why I run. This place is quiet and beautiful and calm. This place reminds me of this one summer when I was in high school. I was out on Lake Washington in a rowboat. The weather was perfect; warm and sunny. There wasn't a cloud in the sky. I laid down in the bottom of the boat and closed my eyes. I felt the sun's warmth on my skin, and the only sound was that of the water gently lapping against the bottom of the metal boat. I laid there like that for hours. All of my problems, fears, sadness, and anger were released. For those moments I wasn't the kid from a screwed up home... I was just.. Alyssa. Out there on the course, there she was again... Me.

Shortly after the 8 mile marker, my brain was forced to engage. We had been running on pavement up until this point, but now we had turned onto a gravel road. It was rather unpleasant! The gravel was not packed or even.. it was lumpy and was a mixture of golf ball-sized rocks, potholes, and random patches of grass! I felt like I was on an obstacle course! I couldn't help but think to myself, "yeah.. this is great for my knees!" LOL At least my mind was preoccupied with trying not to trip and kill myself. :-)

At about mile nine, I decided to have a puff on my inhaler... it wasn't there! Oh shit.. I had dropped it! I eagerly glanced behind me, hoping I would be able to still see it laying on the ground.. It wasn't. Where had I dropped it?? My heart sank a little bit; after all.. the dreaded mile marker 10 was approaching... my wall.. but I pushed forward, still at a pace that surprised me. At 9.5 miles, the course split again, sending me onto a soft dirt path surrounded by trees. As I ran the next 1/2 mile I started to worry that I was going the wrong way. There were no course markers in sight, but then I realized that I could make out the tracks of running shoes. Even though logically I knew I was where I was supposed to be, I was still nervous. Wouldn't it just be fabulous if I got lost and never finished the dumb race?? To my relief, a couple out walking their dog came around the corner. I asked them if they had seen runners and they graciously confirmed that I was on the right path and told me I was doing great. My spirit soared.

Shortly after this reaffirmation, the course looped back around, had a short stint on the highway and then returned me back to my gravel road. "Hi gravel road," I thought.. "Now I know how far you are!" I was starting to feel the distance I had covered, though. I was no longer able to shut out the world. My feet were sore, my abs were tired, my lungs ached.. and then.. there it was, laying on the trail, wrapped in my running gloves.. MY INHALER!!! I scooped it up and puffed on it a couple times. I love air! The happiness my inhaler brought my was short lived, however. Although my lungs were doing better, and I was once again on my beloved pavement, my body was just plain exhausted! I told myself, "Two more miles, Alyssa. Easy! Cake!" I touched my necklace and remembered it's meaning.

At one mile out I called my friend Jennifer. Her voice was encouraging. As I hung up the phone I thought, "Next time I talk to you.. I will be DONE!" At a half mile out I was really dying. Although I knew I was so close, it felt like I was running in place!

The last stretch of the course was straight through town. Directly following the race, there was to be a parade on the very road I was now running on. As I got closer, the street became lined with people waiting for the parade. For the first block, no one seemed to noticed the half dead, covered in sweat, crazy woman running down the street.. and then, like an angel from heaven, I heard a voice.. "Great job runner! You're almost there! You can do it!! You can do it!!" It was the woman I had spoken to before the race! She was jumping up and down on the side of the street, waving her arms like mad, and screaming these beautiful words. I became overwhelmed with pride and joy as her actions became contagious and everyone started cheering for me. It was at that moment that I realized.. I had done it!

Tears filled my eyes as I approached the finish line. I was sprinting at this point. My body was like a machine and all I felt was euphoria. There was Ky! Alannah! Jonah! There was John!.. and his children! Jennifer was there (holding my banana!) and her fiance, Sean! And then the most beautiful sight of all.. I saw my children. They were beautiful. Then something extraordinary happened.. It was Matt, grinning from ear to ear.. he had started to run! He was finishing my race with me! I swear I will never forget that moment. Crossing the finish line was everything I had dreamed of and more. I hugged my friends and cried as I held my children. It was a wonderful and unforgettable moment.

I have to thank a few people.. (I feel like an Oscar winner lol) Thank you Ky, Alannah, Jonah, Matt, Spencer, Jennifer, Sean, John, Mason, and Robbie for driving all the way to Burlington to cheer me on. Thank you Dave, Chris, and Steve for being there for me in spirit. You guys are awesome. I'm one lucky gal!

So what's next...? Oh, it's already in the works. ;-)

http://www.bellinghambaymarathon.org/
http://www.skagitflatsmarathon.com/
http://www.seattlemarathon.org/Home.htm

Hrmm...

Two days until RACE DAY!! 6/18/09

This week has been for rest and restoration...

I didn't run on Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday... I'm not sure that is healthy for me...
1. I ate too much ice cream...
2. I need to run to stay sane!

I was going to run yesterday, but it was not in the cards. Too busy with work, play dates, and life. Moving on... I decided to run to the gym today. I believe it is roughly one mile. My lungs seemed rather shocked they were being used again and were unhappy on my way to the gym.

Mental note: No more going over 2 days without some form of cardiovascular exercise. Amen.

Once at the gym, I chose my hamster wheel and flipped the telly to Emeril Live. I'd never seen that before.. Hmm.. I feel hungry again... As I was saying, I hit the ol' treadmill and set off to have a nice and easy sanity/systems wake up run.

1st mile: 12 minute mile
2nd mile: 11 1/2 minute mile
3rd mile: 11 minute mile
4th mile: (only .67 mi.) ~8 3/4 minute mile

At this point I accidentally hit the emergency stop button, but it seemed like as good a time as any to call it.

Time for my big news!!! On my way out of the gym I had my body fat % calculated... 19.1% Not bad for an 31 year old mom of two! I think the last time I had it checked (a few months ago) it was 22%, so this was great news (although I can't say that dropping my body fat % was a conscious goal for me.) It must have been the extra ice cream this week. Hehehe. :-) Then I ran home. Total mileage today: ~5.67 miles. I plan to do an easy 3-5 miles tomorrow, and then race day baby!

Speaking of race day.. Let's discuss it! I am nervous. Will my asthma flair up and hold me back? Will I hurt myself? Will I enjoy myself? Will I hit The Wall either mentally, physically, or both? Will the finish line be filled with the elation that I have dreamed of for 6 long months?? Will anyone be there to cheer me on, and will it hurt if there isn't? Will I need to pee for miles on end? Will there be a photographer there? (I better get a good f'ing picture... lol.) What should I carry with me? Will I come in last?! (Oh please God, I don't want to be last!) Will I need a medic?... Shoot... Will I need to be the medic?? LOL

Someone special wrote this in an email to me this morning:
"Saturday, and these days leading up to it, is/are your moment to take in all that you've worked so hard for....savor it, all of it....even the vomiting part at the end :). Like we talked about last night, even these early jitters are part of the grand experience.....you'll do great!!!"

Thank you for these words. You are absolutely right.

This just seems relevant...

Ain't nothing going to break my stride
Nobody´s going to slow me down
Oh no, I have got to keep on moving
Ain't nothing going to break my stride
I am running & I would not touch ground
Oh no, I have got to keep on moving

Running Journal 6/14/09

Yesterday I ran around Greenlake twice. It felt good.
Total mileage for the day: 5.6mi.
Total week's mileage: 29.65 mi.

Today I went down to the BGT. I ran 12 f'ing miles! I'll tell ya'... there seems to be a "wall" for be at mile 10. It's like, I'm going along, sure I'm tired, but I'm hanging in there.. Then I pass the 10 mile mark and it seems like I can barely move forward! My abdominal muscles were so tired I struggled to remain upright! My lungs held up like champs. I did seem to have some mild left sided chest pain, but it seemed muscular in nature. I threw up a little in my mouth ans swallowed it! LOL My gait was sloppy. I couldn't help but let the thoughts of self doubt creep in.. Can I really run this far? Will I be able to finish my race? I hate these thought, but I know they are normal. The other thing that was troublesome was that I was having weird nerve pain in my hands and arms, that would send shocks of stinging electricity from my fingers and thumb radiating upwards into my forearms. I ended up having to run with my arms tucked close to me with my hands closed and resting on my collar bones. WTF is that?? Anyway, at least I made it. This week is going to be light. I am going to rest up, let my muscles repair themselves, and take care of myself. Race days in 6 days!!!!!

Running Journal 6/10/09

Ran home from work today. It was really ridiculous hot out, but I held up. I kept a good pace and pushed myself. I wanted to go further, but I was out of time and out of water. Today's run said "F-U yesterday's run!" I feel like I'm on track again.

Running Journal 6/9/09

Today's run was one of those runs that make me think.. WTF? Why am I doing this? Why am I pushing myself so hard? Today I let my fears and self doubt creep in. Why am I doing this?? The answer; I have to! For some inexplicable reason, my very soul needs this upcoming race. I don't want to sound fanatical or anything, but it is true. I do not know what lies beyond this month in running, but right now, it is so important to me, and I want it so bad, I can taste it. I feel like I need to run because I'm 31. LOL Is that weird? Of course it is! Even I do not understand it. I guess I have decided that this is the year of my awakening. This is my year of triumph. 30 was good, but 31 should be better. It is better.

Running Journal 6/8/09

I got out today and ran about 3 1/4 miles today. I started at the Huskey Stadium, headed over The Cut, and ran one of the trails in Arboretum. It was a beautiful day today. I have to say that I will always love the Arboretum... I have so many memories there; sledding with my dad, smoking.. er.. I mean reading the Bible with my friends.., first kisses.. *Alyssa waxes nostalgic for a moment*

My only complaints today were that I am still pretty sore from the miles yesterday, and I had to pee really bad! I considered the bushes, but there were too many people around.. and after the incident in Sultan a few years back.. I thought better of peeing where I'd most likely be caught! LOL I hit The Hop In on my way back. That place was always good for a bathroom, and selling alcohol to miners.. not that I know anything about that...

My knees actually held up pretty well today. I ran slow and easy as this is usually a rest day for me. Tomorrow I think running home will be sufficient, but Wednesday I'll need to turn it up.

Woot.

Running Journal 6/7/09

I've such a slacker. I didn't run on Thursday, Friday, or Saturday! The heat, combined with lack of sleep did not exactly keep me feeling motivated. I caught up on sleeping yesterday, so I was ready to go this morning. I went down to the B.G.T. and ran a nice 10 miles. I felt pretty good, but I took it slow. Part of me wanted to squeeze out 1-2 more miles, but I didn't have the time. I really have to focus this coming week. 13 days to race day, and I need to be sure I am not missing anymore runs. I need to get the mileage in, and the following week I can taper off and give my muscles a chance to repair.

Running Journal 6/3/09

I'm going to lose another damn toenail I think... The first one was cool.. but I'm not sure I want them all like that!

I ran 5 miles yesterday on the treadmill. Luckily I was able to kind of get into a T.V. show, so I did not die of boredom. Those silly Duggers! LOL The treadmill makes your stride different.. I think that is why my nail hurts. I noticed after my run the other day at the gym that the toe was sore, and then last night, it became worse. The thing is, I can't feel anything going on in my shoe while I'm running. It isn't until after my run that it notice anything. Weird. I want to do 5 miles today too. It is going to be a scorcher... I want to run outside, but I'm not sure I'll enjoy it in the heat expected this evening. We will see.

Running Journal 5/30/09

Well I'm pretty pleased with myself today! I went down to the Burke Gilman this morning and ran 11.22 miles. It took me exactly 2 hours. I felt great. My lungs and knees held up. the last 2-2.5 miles were hard! I was tired, but I did it. I gulped down water and then a vitamin water when I got back to the car. Once I stop running, and start walking, my knees hurt lol. I honestly can't remember which knee it was but it hurt on the back side of my leg at the knee. I stretched and iced on the lawn next to the trail, which really helped. I felt so good! Tired and salty! What a beautiful stretch of the trail too! /sigh, I love the Pacific Northwest!

Total Mileage this week:
29.14 miles

Running Journal 5/29/09

This week has been fairly discouraging. I did not get the mileage in that I had hoped for and the miles that I did do, were far from satisfying.

Sun: 3.88 mi.
Mon: Don't usually run.
Tues: 3.68 mi.
Wed: "Kid aggro."
Thurs: 3.69 mi. Was brutally hot out, I was dehydrated, my lungs hurt, and I had shin splints. Ugh!
Fri: 5.67 mi. See below:

Today's run was weird... I ended up going to the gym because it was so hot out that I really didn't want to brave it outside. I got on the treadmill, which for starters is very boring. 2.5 miles in, I started having heart burn, and then all of a sudden, I was having trouble breathing! My asthma just hit, and I was gasping. I'd estimate I was at about 30% of the lung capacity I would have expected to have at that moment. I don't know. That's just what it felt like, at least. I slowed down to a fast walk to catch my breath. I eventually felt good enough to pick up the pace again, but couldn't go as fast as I had been going. At mile 4, my feet went completely numb! WTF? Then, oddly enough, I felt pretty good at the finish. I think I may have just been glad it was over lol. Tomorrow I am planning 10 miles... I really hope I can do it! My goal this week was 35 miles.. As of today, I am at 16.91. I guess I'm just going to have to fall short...

I just feel discouraged in general. My race is coming so soon...

Running Journal 5/26/09

I didn't run yesterday because I usually take Mondays off. Today, I ran home from work. I ran at a decent pace, but I sure had some yucky shin splints; mostly on the left side. My left knee continues to bother me. It doesn't hurt for the whole run usually, though. Using the brace seems to only make matters worse, so I am not bothering with that. I only ran 3.68(ish) miles today. I didn't really have time for anymore. Hopefully I can get in more miles tomorrow... I'd like to go 5 miles per day this week, and then more on the weekend, of course. My left heel seems to be improving with the ultrasound and icing, and the stretching I do at home.

Running Journal 5/24/09 Toenail News!

5/24/09
I can't believe I didn't mention this before! On Mother's Day, when I did that little 5k in Kirkland, I ran down a pretty steep hill and ended up getting a lovely blister under my toenail. It was ridiculously tender, so I ended up burning a little hole in the nail so I could drain the dang thing and relieve the pressure. Wow, that felt good! Anyway, this brings me to my big news!!! My toenail is totally falling off!!! This may sound strange, but this flappy little toenail is like my itty-bitty running badge of honor! No one can stop me now! ULTRA-MARATHON here I come!!

Yesterday's run was awesome. 9 miles, and I ran them hard. I felt great; knees, tummy, butt muscle (lol), and all the other parts of me that are over 30. Wait.. that sounds weird. All of me is over 30. It isn't like I have "newer artificial improvements" or anything! (Clearly.) Alright, I'm rather tired! Back to the subject; running! I was so in the zone last night. The boys and I hit the Interurban, and my neighbor, Chris, tagged along as well. They were all on bikes. It was great having Chris along because he helped me keep our little caravan moving along. I didn't have as many delays, which made for more effective mileage. Woot! When I got home, I was all shaky and wobbly as my muscles cooled down. I felt like a real marathon runner! It was awesome! I did see my homeless friend and his Target shopping cart again. This time he grinned at me... I think I liked our first encounter more.I am not sure if I will run today. I'm a little stiff this morning, so I'll see how it goes. I may just X-train.. and when I say "X-train," what I really mean is goof off with the kids at the public swimming pool. :D ( I may have to hit the hot tub sauna too!)

Total mileage this week: 33.81 miles!

Running Journal 5/19/09 - 5/22/09

5/22/09
I got up early and had the bright idea to run to work. So I packed up my super cool fanny pack and I was off. It was rather heavy, so the going was slower, (or perhaps it was the same pace as usual, but it sucked more...) A homeless gentleman scared the living you-know-what out of me as I neared the Lynnwood P&R. He was arranging his shopping cart behind some bushes and I'm not sure which one of us jumped higher! LOL I kicked into high gear and probably gave him a chuckle. It was a reminder though that I need to get my head out of the clouds and be more aware of my surroundings. To change the subject, showering at work is weird. I'll get over it. I doubt my co-workers would appreciate it if I didn't.As you probably guessed, I had to run home from work as well. It was beautiful out! What a warm and gorgeous day! Sadly, I was slightly dehydrated. I usually pound the water, but I was just "off" all day today. When I have a lot on my mind, my tummy doesn't feel good, so lugging the fanny was rather unpleasant. For the first mile I ran like hell, but then my stomach wasn't having it anymore, and I had to slow down. I tried pulling the fanny around to the front. No. I don't like that. I tried slinging it over my shoulder, but eventually settled on tucking it under my arm. I don't know if I'm ready to hang up the fanny though. I think I should just give it another chance when I am feeling a bit better.My left knee hurt while running today. Front, bottom of patella. Oh... I almost forgot. I think I pulled my right glute yesterday. /cry Total mileage today: 7.25mi.

5/21/09
Although I lacked any motivation at all this afternoon, I walked to the grocery store, bought two heavy bags of groceries, and then walked home. On the way back I used the bags as weights and got a good arm workout in. I was "feelin' the burn" by the time I got home! LOL After putting the groceries away, (with spent and trembling upper limbs) I informed the boys it was time to grab their bikes. Surprisingly, nobody started whining! It was interesting how fast my lack of motivation and listlessness disappeared. As soon as we left the driveway, I felt so much better. Stronger.My left knee, however... I had decided to put my brace on the left side today. Nope. Not a good idea! LOL About a mile and a half in, I told the boys to stop and I peeled the dumb thing off. I wrapped it onto Spencer's bike, and we were off again. I felt relief immediately. This gave me a new burst of energy. I ran over 2 miles more at a sub 9 pace. My lungs kicked ass! I wanted to go much much further, but the boys were getting tired. I don't want to push them too hard too fast. Better to have short successful rides with a gradual increase, rather than freak them out right off the bat. These family "ride-runs" are a great way to help get the mileage in that I need.

5/20/09
I pushed myself hard today. I ran 5.38 miles. I was focused. When I run like this, everything fades away behind me. The only thing on my mind is my breathing and the sound of my feet hitting the pavement. I like it in that place.

5/19/09
Ran home from work... I was carrying my fanny pack full of my crap. It was heavy. My legs, especially my calves felt like lead. Although it was a miserable 3.6 miles on the Interurban, (in the rain, I might add) it still took my mind where only running seems to take it. Away.

5/17/09 Beat the Bridge 8k

5/17/09
Today was Beat the Bridge. It was tough for me to go today. My mind and heart are elsewhere today, but I told myself that I had to run, and run hard. So I did. As I pushed my lungs and my legs to their limit, I was somehow free from all of my troubles. I wish I could run forever... but I know you can run, but you can't hide. I do not know what my official finish time was, but my Garmin says 47:40. Average pace per mile: 9:40. I am very pleased with me time! My official time might be rather wonky.. I started with the wave that was ahead of mine. I wanted to start with the rest of my team. I don't know what I was thinking when I signed up with such a slow estimated finish time. Dork. The photographer took a few shots of me. I wonder if they will turn out well... I'm sure I looked sweaty and nearly dead! LOL I never buy the race T-shirt... I'd much rather have a nice photo.

As it turns out, the timing chips used for the race malfunctioned, so no official net time was given. I will have to rely on my Garmin for this one.

Running Journal 5/11/09 - 5/16/09

5/16/09
I ran the Burke Gilman today. I had decided on 8 miles. My lungs were hurting and I struggled. I walked the entire 6th mile, but ran the rest after that. When I finished I felt rather guilty about "cheating" (walking) so I tacked on another mile at the end. Total mileage for the day: 9 miles. :-)

5/14/09
Side aches suck.

5/13/09
Ran home from work today. I took the bus in, so I had to carry everything home with me in my sweet fanny pack! Yeah, that's right! I wear a fanny pack! Actually, it isn't that bad.. it isn't like the dumb one your dad would wear, it is Northface and rugged. *growl* I got it on clearance at the Joe's going out of business sale. It was really comfortable! The extra weight was certainly noticeable, though lol. I did fine though... 5.82miles in just under an hour. I still can't find my inhaler... I did better today than I expected I would without it.

5/12/09
I went running in Woodway today. I got lost. What a goober! The run sucked, btw.. I'm still sore from Sunday and my asthma and allergies are really pissing me off. I can't find my inhaler...

5/11/07
Note to self: Get arm warmers. I forgot to mention that yesterday towards the end of my run, I experienced some paresthesia in my thumbs, hands, and into my forearms. There are some super cute ones at Everyday Athlete, but I'm wondering if I should get something with compression...

5/10/09 Mother's Day Kirkland 5k

5/10/09
Jon and I ran the Kirkland Mother's day 5k this morning. Holy HILL Batman!! OMG that hill sucked. Before the hill, we were doing a sub 8 min. mile, but then the hill hit, not to mention the freakin' cottonwood crap in the air!!! I tried to make up some time on the downhill, but my knees don't like downhill much lol. We finished with a 29:50. Not record shattering or anything, but if you consider that my last 5k, (which was incidentally my first race ever) I finished with a 29:55, but it was totally flat, and perfect conditions for my stupid-ass asthma. I think the fact that I even improved my time a little on a way harder course, goes to show how far I have come. I'm proud of me!!We then rushed to pick up the boys. I really felt like being outside for Mother's Day, and because it was MY day, Jon and I ran, while the boys rode their bikes. We went 8.77 miles! I was so proud of those kids! I am completely beat at the moment lol. Time to sleep. I doubt I'll run tomorrow. Oh, I forgot to mention.. I ran 28.5 miles this week!

Running Journal 5/4/09

5/4/09
I ran my farthest I have ever gone on Saturday; 9.5 miles!!! It felt good. The first 6 miles were with Jon's running group. It was "out of my box" to go running with a bunch of people who were certainly better runners that me, but I did it. I was proud of myself. I didn't come in last either! LOL After the 6 miles (of hills from hell I might add) I ran 3.5 more with Jon, Carolyn, and Ally. The first mile seemed slow, but after that I have to say that Carolyn kicked ass. It was a good workout after all.Yesterday, Jon and I ran 6.2 miles on the Burke Gilman. God I love the Burke Gilman! SOOO FLAT!!! I ran with Lego, and I am so so impressed with my dog! He has never run farther than 2 miles. He was awesome, though. Ran like a champ! Not bad for a 6 lb dog!Today I have an appointment with my physical therapist. I am going to ask her to ultrasound both of my knees this time. The thing is, they do hurt when I run, but it seems like they hurt less as the run goes on, and they don't hurt much after I stop running. That's improvement, eh? I want her to look at my right calf too.

Running Journal 4/22/09 - 4/27/09

4/27/09
Ok, perhaps I was being overly dramatic the other day. My calf actually feels fine now. It felt fine yesterday too. Thank God for Vitamin I and ice! I ran an easy 5k at the gym today. Felt good. I wanted to go further, but my friend had to leave so it seemed like it was as good of a time as any for me to go too. I made PT appt for next Monday to check on my left heel and both of my knees. I need to stop being so lazy about doing my stretches and strengthening exercises...

4/25/09
Had a great run today, despite feeling slightly under the weather. Did 6.12 miles... pulled my right calf. I want to die...

4/24/09
My body aches everywhere. I don't really feel sick, but there is definitely a general sense of malaise. No run today... I feel discouraged.

4/23/09
After work, I drove to the park and ride and ran home from there. (That way it is only one bus I have to take to go back to get my car.) It is only 3 miles, but it nearly killed me! The glands in my neck are swollen. I think I may have caught a bug! *cry* I think a lot about my upcoming races while I run. I am excited... and scared. I know I can do it, but the hills are on my mind. I just want to fast forward time. I don't want to be sick.

4/22/09
I went to the gym, only to get a phone call from the kids 2 minutes into my run. They were fighting. Ugh. I went home. No run for me.

Running Blog "Foreword" 4/21/09

4/21/09
My Running Blog Foreword (so to speak.)

I took up running as a New Year's resolution. Running is not something I that I have ever enjoyed in the past, yet for some reason, it fits me like a glove now. My first running goal was to run a 5k. Done. I ran a 5k in Hilo, Hawaii on March 22nd, 2009 (See photo to the left). My sights are bigger now... Currently, I am signed up for the 2009 Beat the Bridge 8k race on May 17th and the Seattle Rock and Roll half marathon on June 27th. I am training every day. In September there is a full marathon that I have my eye on, but first I'd like to see if I survive my current challenges! I have decided to blog my progress, although I don't expect anyone to read it besides me. I suppose I'll go back a bit first, however. When I first started running, the cold air outside was killing my lungs. As it so happens, Asthma and cold air do not mix. This did not make things easy. It also didn't help that I caught a horrific chest cold. My ankles hurt like hell in the beginning too. I got braces for them from the podiatrist at my work and that seemed to help... However, my right knee started to act up. I diagnosed myself with IT Band Syndrome. I went to physical therapy, wear a brace when I run, and things are going better. I have stretches and strengthening exercises that I did very diligently in the beginning, but I have been slacking lately. My left knee is acting up now. I think it is Runner's Knee. I should really go back to my PT... I also got inserts for my running shoes. I like them. Wow... I sound SO over 30! This blog may not be interesting to anyone but me, and that’s fine. This is a good way for me to track my physical progress, and perhaps other progressions as well.