JANES ON THE RUN!
Goal: Run 1000 miles in 2010!
January's Total: 119.14 miles
February's Total: 152.13 miles
March's Total: 105.7 miles
"Running" total: 376.97
Friday, April 9, 2010
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
...The Finish!
Back to the race...
As I ran the course, up, down, up, up, down, turn by turn...the course was heading us back towards downtown...my feet were hot and I was 90% sure of blisters. I hopped on the nice wide sidewalk for a while to get a break from the black top. While coasting down a hill, I was on my way to mile 22, and a nice breeze came about as I raised arms out for a brief moment – so as not to look too crazy! 22 miles was my longest training run and that was 2 weeks ago. As I expressed in the running journal entry that I knew in my mind, though I continuously questioned the 2 taper weeks, it suddenly became apparent that my legs needed the rest to make this dream in motion run towards fruition! Wow! There’s B-man again – CHEEZ! I pass mile 22 and ran into territory unknown! My heart was truly soaring now with 4.2 miles to go. I lapped my Garmin on mile 22 to mark the mileage at 4:07...the same time I had completed the 22 mile training run and I was reassured in knowing the sag wagon could KISS IT! Around this time I started reminiscing about the people throughout my life who have supported me in following dreams & reaching goals...then about how excited all the Janes half marathoners must have been after finishing their race (so wish I could have that on DVR!)...and as I watched my biggest fan, B-man ride off and fade in the distance, the tears (joyful tears) came out of nowhere and I said aloud “Whew Lord” I quickly thought - Suck it up cupcake! No time for tears - must breathe & count miles! I proceeded to put one foot in front of the other making tracks into town. I knew this part of the course = turn left here – run a block or so – turn left- down this street – up a hill – pass the university...etc.
Although running is work, and at this point I was near or a little beyond mile 23, I was 100% ecstatic on the inside. THERE’S B-MAN on the corner – CHEEZ! He yells across the intersection “Your mom is at the finish line!” (instantaneous nose tingle) OH MY – I CAN’T SEE – as salty fluid filled my eye sockets! I managed to muster up & yell back – OK! Then I hear “I’ll see you at the finish line baby!” Overwhelming wave of emotion number 23 (geez, I am such a wuss!)! Then, I said out loud “Whew Lord, help me.” Here again...no time for hyperventilating, pitching a fit & falling back in it...there are more miles to conquer! A large hill, the university, a nice downhill with old, wise, sturdy, mammoth trees shading the path, turn the corner and...(pause for drama...)
....OMG EEEEEKKK! WHAT IS THAT?! DO MY EYES DECEIVE ME? OH “UHC Marathon Powers At Be” YOU want me to run THAT!? After ALL of THOSE?! There was no nose tingle in any galaxy to be had on that hill, no fluffy thoughts, no positive spin...just pure GRIT & SPIT...tried so hard with every cell membrane within this body to make it up that hill without stopping and when my brain texted my legs and said STOP NOW or I’LL FLY THE COO COO’S NEST – I quickly realized that even with the best of intentions crafted with iron clad steel, it just wasn’t going to happen at that time. So, I picked a spot (a green sign). Come on green! Once I ran to that spot - I power walked the remainder of that steep incline. Coasted along to miles 24and 25 and took walk breaks as needed.
Then all of a sudden, another turn and downtown was in my sights! Oh, but I could not see it clearly because of the paved Mt. St. Helen’s in front of me! (You know where the heck are “Go Go Gadget Skates” when you need them? HA!) I alternated running and walking up the last big hill! At this point, I was less than one mile from the finish line – and I thought WOW it is just a few more turns (overwhelming emotional moment number 25) – spectators were clapping and hollering downtown as if they knew each and every runner & that was really cool! John Mayer’s acoustical version of “Free Falling” popped on the i-pod and it was as if I floated along the downtown streets of High Point. “She’s a good girl, loves her mama, loves Jesus and America too...”
{Sure, my body was heated as sweat dripped from every pore. Feet were tired and had blisters. It was as if I felt individual muscle fibers in my legs contract with each forward and backward movement from mile 22 on. Glutes were on basically on fire & would have appreciated gurney rescue. Hamstrings would have liked to pack it up and call it a day – as in - roll up in child’s pose and stay. Underarms were lightly chafed from the swinging motion back and forth – although I rolled body glide from coast to coast leaving no land untouched with the best of intentions. Lungs knew no other way to breathe than in rhythmic verse with the percussion of pounding pavement. Yet, I am amazed what one’s body will do with proper training, fueling & tapering – and I surely wasn’t in pain or heaven forbid dead! Thus, yes...I “floated” in knowing that this running dream engine was quickly chugging into reality station! Choo choo! (My nephew loves Thomas the Train – that lil scenario is for Nate!) Folks, the entire 18 week experience was one that I would do all over again.}
I turned the corner and I saw the tall, hovering white and blue sign that read FINISH LINE – my brain screams THIS IS IT! I AM HERE! THERE IT IS! “...and I’m FREEEEEE....FREE FALLING!” overwhelming emotional moment number 26.2! I felt within me the need to scream & I channeled that energy in order to finish strong. I thought can my legs go any faster? And, I gave it ALL I had left. As I sprinted to the FINISH – I saw family & friends! As my foot planted on the finish line, fist pump and a faint woo hoo! There are no words to express how many thoughts and emotions took place during that finish line foot plant. Hugs, thanks, more thanks to everyone and more hugs! Metal = yeah!! I “free fell” onto cloud nine and it took my breath away...you want to talk about an “amazing race”...honeychild that 26.2 was mine! AND GUESS WHAT?! AN AMAZING RACE CAN BE YOURS TOO! Janes on the Run will get you running!!So, people have asked...how did you feel (physically) afterwards?
Immediately after the race I felt overall good, as in no pain. I was physically tired (duh I just completed a marathon)...legs as a whole were tight...I squatted in a chair position from time to time while walking about to try and stretch my legs out. I walked around chatted with family & friends, hung out, drank coffee, ate some snacks, went home, got ready & went out to dinner. Then, watched a movie and went to bed around 11 pm or so.
Sunday, the day after the race, although I was still on cloud nine, my legs were sore! It felt as if I had participated in a heavy leg weight training day. I got out and about – moving around - went for a walk, light house work, stretching, sat with heating pad on legs, took a few Aleve, & pretty much chilled out that Sunday.
Monday, I got up as usual & went to the gym, ran 2 miles, rode the bike, abs and lifted weights.
I ran 2 more low mileage days that week and ran the Cooper River Bridge Run one week after the marathon and now have a new 10K PR!
The rest...well, it’s in running progress...stay tuned...
VA BEACH ½ MARATHON SCHOOL starts soon! Interested? Be sure & check out Janes on the Run!
...continued
(…part two)
As I continued pacing along toward the route to the right…something happened…and I realized wow, this happening...as in...TODAY….as in…NOW…this is it…this is what all the hard work has been about…these steps are what I envisioned all those wee hours of the morning on the treadmill while black ice & snow scattered the sidewalks and greenways. I continued along Johnson Street up and down hills meandering through High Point as I made my way towards the outskirts of the city limits. I noticed the signs along the route read “marathon”…and a peaceful contentment resonated within as if my body, mind and soul took a deep breath in knowing it was a journey to be savored – for it is precious, and the miles were counting down, step-by-step, to the ultimate goal…the finish line.
I distinctively remember running over an overpass, looking up at quite a large a hill and reading a girl’s shirt that said “I am running for my dad”! Talk about inspiration! (Nose tingle – geez – I was in the midst of running a marathon and reading a shirt was about to make me well up?! AS IF!) Although, I am not sure what the gal’s story was, nor did I know her dad… yet there is no doubt in my mind her dad was a proud father that day.
As I continue running along Johnson Street (OMG! Johnson was a loooong street!) I saw some firemen – wooooo woooo – many encouraging volunteers and neighborhood gatherings with signs and positive expressions & sentiments! There was a girl at a water stop that gave me water and she said “You go girl, way to represent the women!” I thanked her as I headed UP what seemed to be hill number 150! Ok - North Carolina Department of Transportation…we need to talk! (Seriously, how about blasting just a few of those mountains before you just pave right over them – ok ?)
I pushed over and through the hills and headed out to Skeet Club...yep, that’s the one, there’s only one in these parts...and it is all the way across freakin High Point - HA!
All of a sudden I found myself in the country…on a two lane shaded road…as an endearing couple, who were running side-by-side...we kept playing cat and mouse – they would pass me – then I would pass them – and this continued for miles until one of them needed a break. I spyed a bald man sitting on his back deck soaking in the sun on a deck swing, overlooking a body of water and I wondered to myself…what he was thinking about for it was a perfect place for a person to ponder! I was thinking wow, no B-man paparazzi was out here in these sticks and how the shade felt good out in the country! A few turns later I was on my way back towards the city limits and crossed over the 13.1 mile marker of the marathon course! YAY! I gave the man sitting there a “woo hoo!” and a smile as I stomped my foot on the line! He was quite expressionless. (AS IF!) Of course, maybe he had fallen asleep? I quickly whipped out my crackberry and texted B-man = half way done!
I paced along when all of a sudden between miles 15 and 16 (I think it was)…I was running along and a hill out of nowhere appeared and I watched the runners ahead of me run with the strongest of wills & best of intentions to climb that hill. It was like watching reality t.v. shows...you don't want to...but you just can't help yourself...so, I watched as one by one they dropped and stopped like flies hitting one of those backyard zappers during a summer time BBQ at dusk. I continued ‘flying’ along and made it halfway up the hill when ZAP! My legs wouldn’t bounce any more and I started to hike that dang hill. Then, out of nowhere the aroma of cows or horses or both infiltrated my nostrils and I said out loud – "OH NO!" (Hello mother nature! I didn’t pack a portable GAS MASK in my fuel belt!) (AS IF running 26.2 miles isn’t enough…someone wants us marathoners to run through polluted air as well – do I get an obstacle sticker for that? HA?! Will my lungs survive this polluted trauma? I just don’t know – where am I – did I run to Kansas?!) Luckily, by the next water stop the surrounding plants had worked overtime and re-oxygenated the polluted air! The volunteers at this particular water stop handed out jelly bellies! Happy Happy Joy Joy! Let me tell you I’ve never been so flippin excited to see a jelly bean in my entire existence! HA! GET THIS...what is crazier than that is I had jelly belly sports beans in the expandable runner’s belt that was around my waist. Yet having some generous, smiling, volunteered soul HAND ME (key words) jelly beans & a water cup as I ran by was...well...effortlessly priceless! I ate a few of those jelly bellies when I realized that I was running on that black top tar road and thought to myself…oh heck no...this road will not get me…no sir…not today...today, is NOT the day to be messing with this chic! I figuratively sucked it up, picked my guts & glory up by the bootstraps and two-stepped a fastie pace out of there!
You see, I had been thinking of that particular black tar road ever since B-man and I had driven the course the weekend before the race – knowing the weather was calling for 70+ degree temps – knowing approximately what time I would be treading in "that there tar pit" in relation to where the sun would be shining bright in that Carolina blue, un-cloudy sky – knowing I had trained profusely during the coldest part of the year (ice, snow & beyond!) – so, let me just say that this particular tar pitched road did not give me the "cool" heart fluttering fuzzies! AS IF! That dang road concerned me for I imagined my cute running shoes melting on that road as I ran across it leaving sticky tar foot prints behind, while the heat sucked the happy running life force from my body and thus, imagined myself running out of that black, bubbly tar pit looking a hot mess with a dinosaur bone stuck on my back! WOW, that was a bit dramatic – ya think!? Honey, it’s a running soap opera – there should be a Janes on the Run reality show!
Ok, so I ran and focused BEYOND the tar pit & before I knew it - it was over! (Cue the angelic sounds of Handel’s “Messiah!”) On through a few neighborhoods, over the river and through the woods....(oops that’s a song!)...ok, so around a round-a-bout, up & down hills & back on to Johnson Street (now endearingly nicknamed “Route 66 - where i got my marathon kicks”) up & down, up & down and then...what did I see shimmering off in the distance as I coasted down a hill? Why it was my paparazzi knight on shinning bicycle who glistened in the distance that appeared out of nowhere (OMG - was it a MIRAGE? I just didn't know!)...CHEEZ (just in case)! (HA)
As I rounded another bend on the course he rode along side and we briefly chatted...he witnessed a girl about to FALL OUT because she needed water....hubby cycled ahead to the next water stop and brought her back water...as in HYDRATION! The water stops did seem a bit too far away from each other in that particular area – however, it could have been the “global warming” that was taking place between the sun, pavement, feet, and head that caused her to need water as in - at that exact moment!
I interrupt this race story to take this time to preach on preparation for proper fueling, especially during a race! During my time on the marathon course I saw a very low percentage of people fueling during the run...HELLO! Don’t be a hero! Anything is far better than nothing at all! If it is eat a bean or “die” – choose bean! I’m just saying! My goodness, furthermore be prepared just in case! Honey, I basically had a four-course, caffeinated, well-rounded sugar infused “MEAL” ready to eat at any time in a fuel belt attached to my body during that 5 hour biped tour de High Point! Hello! Some races may run out of stuff to hand out before this turtle trots by their tables and the peeps that sparked this inspired rant were running close proximity to me so...i’m just sayin... (Just keeping it real folks – my name ain’t Trixie & I am not team speed racer but I do plan ahead!). In my humble opinion, it is ultimately the racer’s responsibility to be prepared. I saw runners fizzle out along the marathon course and I could not help but to think that proper hydration and fueling may have had a little something to do with it – especially since some of these people seemed like experienced athletes? After all, Liz didn’t raise a running dummy Jane (AS IF)! Eat something every hour is my motto now. (Thanks Liz!) It doesn’t have to be a lot – just a little “sumthin sumthin” to keep the carbs circulating. With all that said, High Point hosted a great marathon, the fuel tables and water stops were fully stocked and well organized – Bravo!
As I continued pacing along toward the route to the right…something happened…and I realized wow, this happening...as in...TODAY….as in…NOW…this is it…this is what all the hard work has been about…these steps are what I envisioned all those wee hours of the morning on the treadmill while black ice & snow scattered the sidewalks and greenways. I continued along Johnson Street up and down hills meandering through High Point as I made my way towards the outskirts of the city limits. I noticed the signs along the route read “marathon”…and a peaceful contentment resonated within as if my body, mind and soul took a deep breath in knowing it was a journey to be savored – for it is precious, and the miles were counting down, step-by-step, to the ultimate goal…the finish line.
I distinctively remember running over an overpass, looking up at quite a large a hill and reading a girl’s shirt that said “I am running for my dad”! Talk about inspiration! (Nose tingle – geez – I was in the midst of running a marathon and reading a shirt was about to make me well up?! AS IF!) Although, I am not sure what the gal’s story was, nor did I know her dad… yet there is no doubt in my mind her dad was a proud father that day.
As I continue running along Johnson Street (OMG! Johnson was a loooong street!) I saw some firemen – wooooo woooo – many encouraging volunteers and neighborhood gatherings with signs and positive expressions & sentiments! There was a girl at a water stop that gave me water and she said “You go girl, way to represent the women!” I thanked her as I headed UP what seemed to be hill number 150! Ok - North Carolina Department of Transportation…we need to talk! (Seriously, how about blasting just a few of those mountains before you just pave right over them – ok ?)
I pushed over and through the hills and headed out to Skeet Club...yep, that’s the one, there’s only one in these parts...and it is all the way across freakin High Point - HA!
All of a sudden I found myself in the country…on a two lane shaded road…as an endearing couple, who were running side-by-side...we kept playing cat and mouse – they would pass me – then I would pass them – and this continued for miles until one of them needed a break. I spyed a bald man sitting on his back deck soaking in the sun on a deck swing, overlooking a body of water and I wondered to myself…what he was thinking about for it was a perfect place for a person to ponder! I was thinking wow, no B-man paparazzi was out here in these sticks and how the shade felt good out in the country! A few turns later I was on my way back towards the city limits and crossed over the 13.1 mile marker of the marathon course! YAY! I gave the man sitting there a “woo hoo!” and a smile as I stomped my foot on the line! He was quite expressionless. (AS IF!) Of course, maybe he had fallen asleep? I quickly whipped out my crackberry and texted B-man = half way done!
I paced along when all of a sudden between miles 15 and 16 (I think it was)…I was running along and a hill out of nowhere appeared and I watched the runners ahead of me run with the strongest of wills & best of intentions to climb that hill. It was like watching reality t.v. shows...you don't want to...but you just can't help yourself...so, I watched as one by one they dropped and stopped like flies hitting one of those backyard zappers during a summer time BBQ at dusk. I continued ‘flying’ along and made it halfway up the hill when ZAP! My legs wouldn’t bounce any more and I started to hike that dang hill. Then, out of nowhere the aroma of cows or horses or both infiltrated my nostrils and I said out loud – "OH NO!" (Hello mother nature! I didn’t pack a portable GAS MASK in my fuel belt!) (AS IF running 26.2 miles isn’t enough…someone wants us marathoners to run through polluted air as well – do I get an obstacle sticker for that? HA?! Will my lungs survive this polluted trauma? I just don’t know – where am I – did I run to Kansas?!) Luckily, by the next water stop the surrounding plants had worked overtime and re-oxygenated the polluted air! The volunteers at this particular water stop handed out jelly bellies! Happy Happy Joy Joy! Let me tell you I’ve never been so flippin excited to see a jelly bean in my entire existence! HA! GET THIS...what is crazier than that is I had jelly belly sports beans in the expandable runner’s belt that was around my waist. Yet having some generous, smiling, volunteered soul HAND ME (key words) jelly beans & a water cup as I ran by was...well...effortlessly priceless! I ate a few of those jelly bellies when I realized that I was running on that black top tar road and thought to myself…oh heck no...this road will not get me…no sir…not today...today, is NOT the day to be messing with this chic! I figuratively sucked it up, picked my guts & glory up by the bootstraps and two-stepped a fastie pace out of there!
You see, I had been thinking of that particular black tar road ever since B-man and I had driven the course the weekend before the race – knowing the weather was calling for 70+ degree temps – knowing approximately what time I would be treading in "that there tar pit" in relation to where the sun would be shining bright in that Carolina blue, un-cloudy sky – knowing I had trained profusely during the coldest part of the year (ice, snow & beyond!) – so, let me just say that this particular tar pitched road did not give me the "cool" heart fluttering fuzzies! AS IF! That dang road concerned me for I imagined my cute running shoes melting on that road as I ran across it leaving sticky tar foot prints behind, while the heat sucked the happy running life force from my body and thus, imagined myself running out of that black, bubbly tar pit looking a hot mess with a dinosaur bone stuck on my back! WOW, that was a bit dramatic – ya think!? Honey, it’s a running soap opera – there should be a Janes on the Run reality show!
Ok, so I ran and focused BEYOND the tar pit & before I knew it - it was over! (Cue the angelic sounds of Handel’s “Messiah!”) On through a few neighborhoods, over the river and through the woods....(oops that’s a song!)...ok, so around a round-a-bout, up & down hills & back on to Johnson Street (now endearingly nicknamed “Route 66 - where i got my marathon kicks”) up & down, up & down and then...what did I see shimmering off in the distance as I coasted down a hill? Why it was my paparazzi knight on shinning bicycle who glistened in the distance that appeared out of nowhere (OMG - was it a MIRAGE? I just didn't know!)...CHEEZ (just in case)! (HA)
As I rounded another bend on the course he rode along side and we briefly chatted...he witnessed a girl about to FALL OUT because she needed water....hubby cycled ahead to the next water stop and brought her back water...as in HYDRATION! The water stops did seem a bit too far away from each other in that particular area – however, it could have been the “global warming” that was taking place between the sun, pavement, feet, and head that caused her to need water as in - at that exact moment!
I interrupt this race story to take this time to preach on preparation for proper fueling, especially during a race! During my time on the marathon course I saw a very low percentage of people fueling during the run...HELLO! Don’t be a hero! Anything is far better than nothing at all! If it is eat a bean or “die” – choose bean! I’m just saying! My goodness, furthermore be prepared just in case! Honey, I basically had a four-course, caffeinated, well-rounded sugar infused “MEAL” ready to eat at any time in a fuel belt attached to my body during that 5 hour biped tour de High Point! Hello! Some races may run out of stuff to hand out before this turtle trots by their tables and the peeps that sparked this inspired rant were running close proximity to me so...i’m just sayin... (Just keeping it real folks – my name ain’t Trixie & I am not team speed racer but I do plan ahead!). In my humble opinion, it is ultimately the racer’s responsibility to be prepared. I saw runners fizzle out along the marathon course and I could not help but to think that proper hydration and fueling may have had a little something to do with it – especially since some of these people seemed like experienced athletes? After all, Liz didn’t raise a running dummy Jane (AS IF)! Eat something every hour is my motto now. (Thanks Liz!) It doesn’t have to be a lot – just a little “sumthin sumthin” to keep the carbs circulating. With all that said, High Point hosted a great marathon, the fuel tables and water stops were fully stocked and well organized – Bravo!
Monday, April 5, 2010
This Chic's Ultimate 26.2 Kicking Adventure
Beeep...Beeep...Beeep! (alarm clock) Believe it or not, I was able to sleep the night before the race, although it was a very light sleep – it was SLEEP! Yay! So, the alarm clock sounded & the date was March 20, 2010! (I thought it would NEVER get here!) The long anticipated & dreamed of day had finally arrived (pinch, pinch) & the overwhelming feeling was nothing short of surreal - for real! There was an indescribable calmness about me on the inside (I know what you are thinking....AS IF! Look, I cannot believe it either!). I kept thinking...WOW...i will start to flip out any second now...yep - just any momentito! Yet, as time ticked and I sipped coffee, post race bag packed & waited on BFF to pick me up...only race day excitement and a more determined focus surged through my veins. I guess the self-talk & dramatic gamut of thoughts & emotions during not one...but two weeks of tapering finally paid off!?
As an example, below is an entry from my running journal during the taper weeks:
“Ok, so the mind has wigged out a few times thinking about all this lower mileage. How do i know tapering & resting to be true blue tried and true, yet at times I second guess it, like all the training will magically disappear by not running high mileage right before the race? I desperately reassure self & cling to the proof of what the Janes training plans have continuously delivered throughout the 5K, 10K, Half Marathon & Pace schools; and I figuratively tie a huge knot & hold on for dear life remaining steadfast! Liz, girl, you knew what you were doing when you gave us this quote...“Be faithful to the end; be full of faith with every step & persist in knowing in your heart the end is secure.” Yet, I am crazy & only mere human – and doing the best with the equipment within – which seems to be Arnold Swartzenwhatever strong sometimes and other times not remotely sooo dang much, as in similar to an al dente angel hair noodle- ha! With all that said, it trips me out how random people may be reassuring at just the right moments... eye doctor – turns out doc competed in triathlons for years...he said you should be taking it really easy now (um...can I get that on looped Memorex pls!?) Then, two gals that work in the tower and run - surprised me with a goodie bag for the marathon...and heavens sakes the nose tingled as if tears were on their way!? What is that all about?! How come I want to jump for joy one moment, bite nails at another moment, pinch myself another, laugh at one moment, and apparently cry at another? Has this training put me in menopause!?! (ha!!) Still, a part of me is certain that this is all part of the journey and I am very grateful for this journey and the lessons it affords. As I embrace the joy, the nervousness, the laughter, the wonderment, the tears, etc., I continue to evolve within and...well, simply, I am truly blessed beyond measure!”
So, during that 2 week taper roller coaster, I decided that I would try & view this 26.2 miles as “just” another training run -only this training run was in High Point, on a much larger scale, and with men...(HA – I know, right!? CRAZINESS!) Now, there was less pressure this race since the ultimate goal was to FINISH! I was not pushing for a time (Thank goodness – OMG - time watching can be so stressful! There are some runs I don’t even look at that Garmin!) I did have a secondary goal, which was not to get snagged by the SAG WAGON (Heaven forbid! AS IF! If you ask me, that sag wagon might as well be driven by the grim reaper! Who would volunteer for THAT job? I’m just sayin... what do they say to people if the sag wagon has to pick runners up? "Hey you get on the wagon?" Have you ever thought about what they would say? I mean what is there to say...hmmmm...you see what i'm saying? The sag wagon is just a wagon of doom OR i guess it could be considered a calvary for someone who WANTS to get picked up? AS IF! Personally, my initial thought stands firm on wagon of doom.)
Ok, so BFF picked me up and we headed out towards downtown GSO to another great racing adventure...in the dark of course (HA!)! As BFF drove down Freeman Mill Road which turned into 220 and we exited onto I-85, then subsequently merged right onto Business I-85 – guess what happened? (WARNING!!! BEWARE of Business I-85 Folks!) Yep, we entered yet another time warp or blacked out because we somehow missed the exit! (I recall thinking....Um, where are we?!) The 26.2 miles didn’t stress me out but being lost on race day surely did for a brief time! Geez! Ok, so I called B-man with lightening speed and B talked me street by street where we needed to go...and I relayed his directions to BFF. (If I have blessed BFF 100 times...she has 100s more coming!) Sounds simple, right?! Ok, well, try explaining to someone where you are when you have no clue where you are in the first place...and the sun hasn’t fully peeked its glorious head over the horizon yet...you have new contacts in your eyes which are a new script...there is start line to get to...for a race that you’ve trained 16 & 18 weeks for...you’ve downed half a pot of coffee...and your bladder that started out whispering to you 3 miles ago – is now singing opera...and as you drive around it quickly becomes apparent that...yes...car jacking may be possible, hmmm or perhaps witnessing a drive by...yep...chew on that gem of a thought for a while! Anywho – B-man, with his stealth sense of direction and area furniture market knowledge, quickly led us out of STRANGER DANGER & directly to the cool Natuzzi building, where BFF parked in the parking deck. BFF and I got our rears in gear & headed toward Showplace to meet the Janes!
Warm up exercises, shiny rocks to remind us = Yes, we rock! Hugs, good lucks, Liz’s positive reinforcements & a pump up talk later...we spotted Julie (Yay!), a future Jane who works w/BFF...and off to the restroom we go as the announcer’s voice can be heard in the background. Time was ticking... On our way towards the restroom...Charlotte, Laura, Susan Davis, Maria, Ashley...Janes over here, Janes over there, Janes are everywhere!
Time was ticking... As we walked out of Showplace and lined up at the start line...I checked my fuel belt again! (...I mean my Lord, I had only checked it 50 times in 15 mins. surely it needed to be checked again, right? (HA)?!) Julie (blue jacket), Wendy (black jacket beside Julie), and I (pink jacket) listened to the national anthem and WOO HOO!
As an example, below is an entry from my running journal during the taper weeks:
“Ok, so the mind has wigged out a few times thinking about all this lower mileage. How do i know tapering & resting to be true blue tried and true, yet at times I second guess it, like all the training will magically disappear by not running high mileage right before the race? I desperately reassure self & cling to the proof of what the Janes training plans have continuously delivered throughout the 5K, 10K, Half Marathon & Pace schools; and I figuratively tie a huge knot & hold on for dear life remaining steadfast! Liz, girl, you knew what you were doing when you gave us this quote...“Be faithful to the end; be full of faith with every step & persist in knowing in your heart the end is secure.” Yet, I am crazy & only mere human – and doing the best with the equipment within – which seems to be Arnold Swartzenwhatever strong sometimes and other times not remotely sooo dang much, as in similar to an al dente angel hair noodle- ha! With all that said, it trips me out how random people may be reassuring at just the right moments... eye doctor – turns out doc competed in triathlons for years...he said you should be taking it really easy now (um...can I get that on looped Memorex pls!?) Then, two gals that work in the tower and run - surprised me with a goodie bag for the marathon...and heavens sakes the nose tingled as if tears were on their way!? What is that all about?! How come I want to jump for joy one moment, bite nails at another moment, pinch myself another, laugh at one moment, and apparently cry at another? Has this training put me in menopause!?! (ha!!) Still, a part of me is certain that this is all part of the journey and I am very grateful for this journey and the lessons it affords. As I embrace the joy, the nervousness, the laughter, the wonderment, the tears, etc., I continue to evolve within and...well, simply, I am truly blessed beyond measure!”
So, during that 2 week taper roller coaster, I decided that I would try & view this 26.2 miles as “just” another training run -only this training run was in High Point, on a much larger scale, and with men...(HA – I know, right!? CRAZINESS!) Now, there was less pressure this race since the ultimate goal was to FINISH! I was not pushing for a time (Thank goodness – OMG - time watching can be so stressful! There are some runs I don’t even look at that Garmin!) I did have a secondary goal, which was not to get snagged by the SAG WAGON (Heaven forbid! AS IF! If you ask me, that sag wagon might as well be driven by the grim reaper! Who would volunteer for THAT job? I’m just sayin... what do they say to people if the sag wagon has to pick runners up? "Hey you get on the wagon?" Have you ever thought about what they would say? I mean what is there to say...hmmmm...you see what i'm saying? The sag wagon is just a wagon of doom OR i guess it could be considered a calvary for someone who WANTS to get picked up? AS IF! Personally, my initial thought stands firm on wagon of doom.)
Ok, so BFF picked me up and we headed out towards downtown GSO to another great racing adventure...in the dark of course (HA!)! As BFF drove down Freeman Mill Road which turned into 220 and we exited onto I-85, then subsequently merged right onto Business I-85 – guess what happened? (WARNING!!! BEWARE of Business I-85 Folks!) Yep, we entered yet another time warp or blacked out because we somehow missed the exit! (I recall thinking....Um, where are we?!) The 26.2 miles didn’t stress me out but being lost on race day surely did for a brief time! Geez! Ok, so I called B-man with lightening speed and B talked me street by street where we needed to go...and I relayed his directions to BFF. (If I have blessed BFF 100 times...she has 100s more coming!) Sounds simple, right?! Ok, well, try explaining to someone where you are when you have no clue where you are in the first place...and the sun hasn’t fully peeked its glorious head over the horizon yet...you have new contacts in your eyes which are a new script...there is start line to get to...for a race that you’ve trained 16 & 18 weeks for...you’ve downed half a pot of coffee...and your bladder that started out whispering to you 3 miles ago – is now singing opera...and as you drive around it quickly becomes apparent that...yes...car jacking may be possible, hmmm or perhaps witnessing a drive by...yep...chew on that gem of a thought for a while! Anywho – B-man, with his stealth sense of direction and area furniture market knowledge, quickly led us out of STRANGER DANGER & directly to the cool Natuzzi building, where BFF parked in the parking deck. BFF and I got our rears in gear & headed toward Showplace to meet the Janes!
Warm up exercises, shiny rocks to remind us = Yes, we rock! Hugs, good lucks, Liz’s positive reinforcements & a pump up talk later...we spotted Julie (Yay!), a future Jane who works w/BFF...and off to the restroom we go as the announcer’s voice can be heard in the background. Time was ticking... On our way towards the restroom...Charlotte, Laura, Susan Davis, Maria, Ashley...Janes over here, Janes over there, Janes are everywhere!
Time was ticking... As we walked out of Showplace and lined up at the start line...I checked my fuel belt again! (...I mean my Lord, I had only checked it 50 times in 15 mins. surely it needed to be checked again, right? (HA)?!) Julie (blue jacket), Wendy (black jacket beside Julie), and I (pink jacket) listened to the national anthem and WOO HOO!
The gun popped shortly thereafter and we were off running...and SMILING!As we passed the start line...look there! Why, there’s B-man...our personal race photog! (Determined to have at least 1 good race photo...all Janes smiled the entire race day as if pics were for a cover girl shoot!) CHEEZ! Oh my...a few blocks later...there was B-man on his bike & Nikon...CHEEZ! Wow, I realized I was going waaay to fast to last 26.2 miles...I slowed it down! Looked up and oops...CHEEZ! Oh, who was that in the creek near that bridge? Oh my...that was B! Delayed...cheez! Told Serena & Trish...that the guy with the camera was my hubby - smile – he’s taking pictures of all the Janes! Here it comes girls...CHEEZ! Oh my, someone hollered my name from a porch...what the... (??) oops...CHEEZ – WAVE...it was B-man! Gosh that B-man picture taking business was like looking for Waldo for 26.2 miles - HA! You never knew when he was going to pop up and snap-flash!
On to miles 6 and 7 – while headed up a hill prior to entering High Point University – I settled into a good pace, my body opened up, shoulders relaxed, found my running zone, and enjoyed the ride. After I turned on College Street, I ran into an old friend who was volunteering! Neal Leeper! Wow, now that is an inspiring runner – participant of the Goofy Challenge 2010 – Woo Hoo! Anywho, I yelled - Neal, it’s Christi! He started hollering too – then he realized I was running my first full and he started running with me - HA! He’s a brother from another mother! Look! There’s B – hovered over a sea of water cups! Cheez!
Wow, did I just pass the mall!? Noticed a tap on the shoulder and it was Wendy!! Hey girl!! We ran together and out of nowhere there was the split everyone had talked about– halfers to the left – fullers to the right...OMG! It came so fast! Thank goodness there was a guy there to tell us where to go...and directed us to the correct paths...for I did not see a sign!
Wendy continued & rocked it out (w/leg cramps!!) & finished the race with a new banging half marathon PR, and her hubby & 3 year old son, Nate, was there to see her finish! Yay! Along with...you guessed it - B-man – CHEEZ! (B rocks - i know he cycled at least 35 miles!)
(to be continued)
On to miles 6 and 7 – while headed up a hill prior to entering High Point University – I settled into a good pace, my body opened up, shoulders relaxed, found my running zone, and enjoyed the ride. After I turned on College Street, I ran into an old friend who was volunteering! Neal Leeper! Wow, now that is an inspiring runner – participant of the Goofy Challenge 2010 – Woo Hoo! Anywho, I yelled - Neal, it’s Christi! He started hollering too – then he realized I was running my first full and he started running with me - HA! He’s a brother from another mother! Look! There’s B – hovered over a sea of water cups! Cheez!
Wow, did I just pass the mall!? Noticed a tap on the shoulder and it was Wendy!! Hey girl!! We ran together and out of nowhere there was the split everyone had talked about– halfers to the left – fullers to the right...OMG! It came so fast! Thank goodness there was a guy there to tell us where to go...and directed us to the correct paths...for I did not see a sign!
Wendy continued & rocked it out (w/leg cramps!!) & finished the race with a new banging half marathon PR, and her hubby & 3 year old son, Nate, was there to see her finish! Yay! Along with...you guessed it - B-man – CHEEZ! (B rocks - i know he cycled at least 35 miles!)
(to be continued)
A Heart of Thanks!
WOW! Where to begin now that the much anticipated 26.2 mile jaunt across High Point, North Carolina has commenced, mileage counted, goal reached, and I have taken in all sorts of thoughts and emotions??!!
Ok, before all the marathon thoughts & details...
...I will begin with gratitude! One cannot imagine how thankful my heart is. For, I am utterly convinced it just is not possible for others to fathom; and well, I am not sure yet if I have fully grasped the extent to which it reaches. First and foremost, I prayerfully thank the big man above for blessing me with an able body and mind (although crazy – but in a good way). Praises to you and the blessings you bestow upon us all!
Years ago, I had dreamed of embarking upon completing a 5K race. (Umm...26.2 was not on any ‘realistic’ radar remotely near me...like, that dream was floating out in infinity or something.) I googled and downloaded a 5K training plan and it sat there...collecting dust on the coffee table for a few days until...well...until it eventually landed in the recycle bin...listing a plethora of excuses in my head while tossing it. Until, that fateful day when BFF mentioned Janes on the Run! And, that is all it took - up & running a few weeks later. You know there are those people you meet in life that are exceptional. Wendy, you are without a doubt a beautiful person inside and out! Thanks girl, for I am blessed to call you BFF! Have mercy, girl you know there could be a sitcom with all the running adventures!!
Ok, before all the marathon thoughts & details...
...I will begin with gratitude! One cannot imagine how thankful my heart is. For, I am utterly convinced it just is not possible for others to fathom; and well, I am not sure yet if I have fully grasped the extent to which it reaches. First and foremost, I prayerfully thank the big man above for blessing me with an able body and mind (although crazy – but in a good way). Praises to you and the blessings you bestow upon us all!
Years ago, I had dreamed of embarking upon completing a 5K race. (Umm...26.2 was not on any ‘realistic’ radar remotely near me...like, that dream was floating out in infinity or something.) I googled and downloaded a 5K training plan and it sat there...collecting dust on the coffee table for a few days until...well...until it eventually landed in the recycle bin...listing a plethora of excuses in my head while tossing it. Until, that fateful day when BFF mentioned Janes on the Run! And, that is all it took - up & running a few weeks later. You know there are those people you meet in life that are exceptional. Wendy, you are without a doubt a beautiful person inside and out! Thanks girl, for I am blessed to call you BFF! Have mercy, girl you know there could be a sitcom with all the running adventures!!
Liz! Girl, your vision, heart & passion for women’s fitness, your experience, knowledge, patience, up-beat personality, positive attitude, bountiful energy, committed support, listening ear, willingness to go the extra mile, determination, and inner driven focus are infectious! I thank you for your hard work and dedication to the Janes. Although I call you coach...girl, I consider you a friend. You are an inspiration to many. Liz, you touch lives not only through teaching others but also by leading and living a positive example –tru dat! Blessings & continued success to you & Janes on the Run. I look forward to many more running adventures!
Fellow Janes! Sparkle – Twinkle!! May we all run until the cows come home, as far as the eye can see, as long as there’s solid ground underneath, as swift as a caffeinated jack rabbit, and as smooth as chocolate! Thanks to all of you!
Beth – Ummmm, well...girl, if I could ever catch up to you I would tell you how amazingly fast you are! You rock girlfriend - like heavy metal rock! If you ever wanted a job @ NorthFace, I am sure they would enjoy a quality control tester for their jackets. (HA!)
Pam – Hey speedy! I look forward to many more running adventures with you – although I am always looking at the back of your head...you have beautiful hair by the way!
Joy – I want your running wardrobe and one of those blueberry muffins you were eating while running the visitors’ center during that long run! You are just so cute & fun to be around!
Sara – Girl, I am excited you will be going to VA Beach! Let’s get this party started...right! If you ever get rid of that flat screen give me a call...i’ll trade you an adult sized Tex & Shirley’s water for it. (Gosh those initial water cups consisted of 4 or 5 gulps! AS IF! We are athletes - give us water!)
Brenda – Your dedication is admirable – the day we passed each other on the greenway real early that Saturday morning – you were beaming! You have a sparkle in your eye when you laugh that makes people feel right at home and your energy is contagious!
Serena – Ok, look – the jury is in & put simply you deserve a gold medal for the groundhog gallop 2010! Your inspiring no fear attitude & trail running determination are like chicken soup for my nervous trail running soul (Roots and Trees and Dirt – Oh My!)! You completely rocked the half marathon & I look forward to many more running memories!
Trish – Hello! Girl, when I realized @ the beginning of school that you and Serena had not run a half marathon yet...I thought to myself...what are these gals waiting for because they are such strong runners!? I hope you celebrated your half marathon finish like the rock star that you are girlfriend!
Melanie –Girl, I knew in my bones you would rock the half marathon! You are a strong runner - own it & work it girl! I hope you will join the running party in VA Beach!?
Jennie – Hello...ummm...go read Beth’s & Pam’s = ditto for you speed racer! Now, why aren’t you running a marathon yet!? Your running seems fluid & fun – Go girl, Go!
Laura – Kindred knitting-sista extraordinaire – so happy to have met you – you are a happy runner girl & a cool chic! Come join the running party in VA Beach?!!
Fellow Janes! Sparkle – Twinkle!! May we all run until the cows come home, as far as the eye can see, as long as there’s solid ground underneath, as swift as a caffeinated jack rabbit, and as smooth as chocolate! Thanks to all of you!
Beth – Ummmm, well...girl, if I could ever catch up to you I would tell you how amazingly fast you are! You rock girlfriend - like heavy metal rock! If you ever wanted a job @ NorthFace, I am sure they would enjoy a quality control tester for their jackets. (HA!)
Pam – Hey speedy! I look forward to many more running adventures with you – although I am always looking at the back of your head...you have beautiful hair by the way!
Joy – I want your running wardrobe and one of those blueberry muffins you were eating while running the visitors’ center during that long run! You are just so cute & fun to be around!
Sara – Girl, I am excited you will be going to VA Beach! Let’s get this party started...right! If you ever get rid of that flat screen give me a call...i’ll trade you an adult sized Tex & Shirley’s water for it. (Gosh those initial water cups consisted of 4 or 5 gulps! AS IF! We are athletes - give us water!)
Brenda – Your dedication is admirable – the day we passed each other on the greenway real early that Saturday morning – you were beaming! You have a sparkle in your eye when you laugh that makes people feel right at home and your energy is contagious!
Serena – Ok, look – the jury is in & put simply you deserve a gold medal for the groundhog gallop 2010! Your inspiring no fear attitude & trail running determination are like chicken soup for my nervous trail running soul (Roots and Trees and Dirt – Oh My!)! You completely rocked the half marathon & I look forward to many more running memories!
Trish – Hello! Girl, when I realized @ the beginning of school that you and Serena had not run a half marathon yet...I thought to myself...what are these gals waiting for because they are such strong runners!? I hope you celebrated your half marathon finish like the rock star that you are girlfriend!
Melanie –Girl, I knew in my bones you would rock the half marathon! You are a strong runner - own it & work it girl! I hope you will join the running party in VA Beach!?
Jennie – Hello...ummm...go read Beth’s & Pam’s = ditto for you speed racer! Now, why aren’t you running a marathon yet!? Your running seems fluid & fun – Go girl, Go!
Laura – Kindred knitting-sista extraordinaire – so happy to have met you – you are a happy runner girl & a cool chic! Come join the running party in VA Beach?!!
Ann - You go girl! You inspire others more than you will ever know! Rock On & Rock Out!
Margaret – Running Scared!? Girl, you are drenched w/talent and utterly hilarious! Thank you for sharing your journey!
Kathy – Ladybug! It has been a pleasure getting to know you! I look forward to hearing of your upcoming running adventures – Chicago, et al.! I knew you would get your “running mojo” back!
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Monday, March 1, 2010
SARCASM - just another service I offer...
Ok, have you ever complimented someone on an outfit, a snazzy accessory, or maybe even a cool slogan on a t-shirt? If yes, or if no...honey, have I got a story for you!
Imagine if you will, two gals minding their own business (yeah right!) ...ok, so pretending to mind their own "busyness" running & working out at the gym in the weeeee early morning. Now, I am talking about before that “sleepy stuff” even thinks about accumulating in the corners of one’s eyelids...
Ok, so two chics working out and lifting weights and zoning out daydreaming of coffee, breakfast, sleep...or all of the above...when all of a sudden a cool pawpaw looking gentleman (70s +) crosses the path and his t-shirt reads “SARCASM...just another service I offer”. After reading what it said 3 times...I thought to myself
wow, I have one of those tees! NOW, HOW CUTE IS THAT– ROCK ON POPS!? (I do adore elderly people! They melt my heart!). So, I said to a grinning gramps...hey, I like your shirt! He smiled really big and said something. Well, my ears heard what he said...it was my BRAIN that was not registering the words!
So, while my brain was running at lightening speed & in a frenzied TIZZY...my eyes were rolling around taking it all in...the bright gym lights...the sounds of weights clanking about...(whew do I feel faint?)...his shirt was like an army green color. Then, I regained consciousness and noticed gramps had some good looking guns on his arms and wow, he was still smiling from ear to ear... Well, I might have said “WHAT?!” but I cannot remember, either that or it looked like I didn’t hear what he said. Because all of a sudden, he repeated for a second time! “DO YOU LIKE WHAT'S IN IT?!”
WHAAAAAAT?!! OH MY, NO HE DIDN’T! (Are my ear drums playing tricks on me?!) Oh, this time his words rang CRYSTAL CLEAR. As my ears stung with SHOCK & DISBELIEF! I laughed it off (cause that is what I do when nervous)! While laughing, well my mouth went and said something, but my brain cannot remember what it said! Next thing I know BFF and I are walking to the next muscle building machine IN A DAZED & CONFUSED STATE OF BEING.
As I turned to BFF, her facial expression confirmed that HECK YES, gramps wanted to know if we, in fact, liked what was in his shirt! Pretty sure I asked her if she heard what he said...and YES, she did. (OMG, my brain is working hard to block this memory out! It's all so fuzzy now! HA) Meanwhile, BFF’s facial expression looked like I felt on the inside! OMG! I wanted to run to the bathroom and scrub my ears with comet & swirl my brain in tidy bowl & puke somewhere in between! Gramps must have eaten his WHEATIES laced with RED BULL before coming to the gym! OH MERCY, bless ALL our hearts! My prayer is that Mr. Ironman Circa 1930 will reserve his “FRESH” comments for a more mature & experienced audience. Truth be known - yes I liked what was in his shirt...he's a cute lil man with a great smile, and he is a regular gym rat...and well homie has a KILLER sense of humor (HA!)...this chic just was not PREPARED for his frisky fervor at dawn!
Rock on Gramps! With lines like that...your leaving the ladies stunned...and they will never forget you! :)
Imagine if you will, two gals minding their own business (yeah right!) ...ok, so pretending to mind their own "busyness" running & working out at the gym in the weeeee early morning. Now, I am talking about before that “sleepy stuff” even thinks about accumulating in the corners of one’s eyelids...
Ok, so two chics working out and lifting weights and zoning out daydreaming of coffee, breakfast, sleep...or all of the above...when all of a sudden a cool pawpaw looking gentleman (70s +) crosses the path and his t-shirt reads “SARCASM...just another service I offer”. After reading what it said 3 times...I thought to myself
wow, I have one of those tees! NOW, HOW CUTE IS THAT– ROCK ON POPS!? (I do adore elderly people! They melt my heart!). So, I said to a grinning gramps...hey, I like your shirt! He smiled really big and said something. Well, my ears heard what he said...it was my BRAIN that was not registering the words!So, while my brain was running at lightening speed & in a frenzied TIZZY...my eyes were rolling around taking it all in...the bright gym lights...the sounds of weights clanking about...(whew do I feel faint?)...his shirt was like an army green color. Then, I regained consciousness and noticed gramps had some good looking guns on his arms and wow, he was still smiling from ear to ear... Well, I might have said “WHAT?!” but I cannot remember, either that or it looked like I didn’t hear what he said. Because all of a sudden, he repeated for a second time! “DO YOU LIKE WHAT'S IN IT?!”
WHAAAAAAT?!! OH MY, NO HE DIDN’T! (Are my ear drums playing tricks on me?!) Oh, this time his words rang CRYSTAL CLEAR. As my ears stung with SHOCK & DISBELIEF! I laughed it off (cause that is what I do when nervous)! While laughing, well my mouth went and said something, but my brain cannot remember what it said! Next thing I know BFF and I are walking to the next muscle building machine IN A DAZED & CONFUSED STATE OF BEING.
As I turned to BFF, her facial expression confirmed that HECK YES, gramps wanted to know if we, in fact, liked what was in his shirt! Pretty sure I asked her if she heard what he said...and YES, she did. (OMG, my brain is working hard to block this memory out! It's all so fuzzy now! HA) Meanwhile, BFF’s facial expression looked like I felt on the inside! OMG! I wanted to run to the bathroom and scrub my ears with comet & swirl my brain in tidy bowl & puke somewhere in between! Gramps must have eaten his WHEATIES laced with RED BULL before coming to the gym! OH MERCY, bless ALL our hearts! My prayer is that Mr. Ironman Circa 1930 will reserve his “FRESH” comments for a more mature & experienced audience. Truth be known - yes I liked what was in his shirt...he's a cute lil man with a great smile, and he is a regular gym rat...and well homie has a KILLER sense of humor (HA!)...this chic just was not PREPARED for his frisky fervor at dawn!
Rock on Gramps! With lines like that...your leaving the ladies stunned...and they will never forget you! :)
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