While filling in the calendar for April and May a number of weeks ago, I realized I'm running four races in the next eight weeks:
Saturday, April 28th - CARA Lakefront 10 miler
Saturday, May 12th - Chicago Spring Half Marathon
Saturday May 26th - Soldier Field 10 miler
Friday June 8th and Saturday June 9th - Ragnar Relay: Madison to Chicago
In past year's I've done a race in the spring. Not two. Or four.
I guess this is one way to mix things up!
Monday, April 30, 2012
Sunday, April 29, 2012
Yoga Studio; Take 2
Last summer I found a yoga studio just a few blocks from my house. They had classes that worked with my schedule. The commute was non-existent. Life was great.
Then the studio announced they were closing their Rogers Park location. They encouraged everyone practicing at Rogers Park to check out their River North location.
Sounded fancy.
In truth, I put off going to the River North location for months, mainly because it's not convenient. When I finally went, it was January and I was wearing Uggs, riding a bus way out west (well, in relation to work) to this studio.
The building was locked down like Fort Knox. On top of that, there's a trick to using the Fort Knox security system - Apparently it's learned over time. So I stood outside cold and frustrated until another woman was able to open the door. Not a good start.
By the time the elevator comes down there's a small pack of us with our yoga mats. We crowd in the elevator. When the elevator doors open up, we're inside the lobby of the studio. The lobby space was quite small, so we shuffle around each other to tuck our belongings away in cubbies before practice. We all have similar jackets and boots. This is going to be a nightmare when we leave.
As we enter the studio, I see that this is going to be a full class. Mats are getting moved closer and closer together. Then I notice a noise - yep, that's the brown line. Just what I wanted to hear while doing yoga.
I debate leaving. Then I decide that my 2' x 6' space in this room is valuable River North real estate I should use over the next 90 minutes. Then the teacher walks in. He's a happy, very chatty fellow. I'm happy to get to know him in the first few minutes of class, but not throughout the entire class where I'm trying to breathe and let go. He seemed to be popular with many in the class, but overall, not for me.
That's ok though. I'm sure there's another instructor there.
So I go again. The bus, the buzzer, the stupid brown line, the cubby, another not-for-me teacher, then the two train ride home.
And once more, since three seems like a better number. By the end the third class, I'm asking why anyone uses public transportation in Chicago as I wait forever for a train at the brown line stop.
This yoga solution seemed like too much work.
And so, like so many, I stopped going out of inconvenience (though I still have a few classes left there).
Until tonight. Tonight is class one at Yoga Studio two. Studio two is also located west, but has parking. Parking eliminates the bus and the train nightmare, so I'm game.
I'm cautiously optimistic that studio 2 is the yoga I've been dreaming of.
Then the studio announced they were closing their Rogers Park location. They encouraged everyone practicing at Rogers Park to check out their River North location.
Sounded fancy.
In truth, I put off going to the River North location for months, mainly because it's not convenient. When I finally went, it was January and I was wearing Uggs, riding a bus way out west (well, in relation to work) to this studio.
The building was locked down like Fort Knox. On top of that, there's a trick to using the Fort Knox security system - Apparently it's learned over time. So I stood outside cold and frustrated until another woman was able to open the door. Not a good start.
By the time the elevator comes down there's a small pack of us with our yoga mats. We crowd in the elevator. When the elevator doors open up, we're inside the lobby of the studio. The lobby space was quite small, so we shuffle around each other to tuck our belongings away in cubbies before practice. We all have similar jackets and boots. This is going to be a nightmare when we leave.
As we enter the studio, I see that this is going to be a full class. Mats are getting moved closer and closer together. Then I notice a noise - yep, that's the brown line. Just what I wanted to hear while doing yoga.
I debate leaving. Then I decide that my 2' x 6' space in this room is valuable River North real estate I should use over the next 90 minutes. Then the teacher walks in. He's a happy, very chatty fellow. I'm happy to get to know him in the first few minutes of class, but not throughout the entire class where I'm trying to breathe and let go. He seemed to be popular with many in the class, but overall, not for me.
That's ok though. I'm sure there's another instructor there.
So I go again. The bus, the buzzer, the stupid brown line, the cubby, another not-for-me teacher, then the two train ride home.
And once more, since three seems like a better number. By the end the third class, I'm asking why anyone uses public transportation in Chicago as I wait forever for a train at the brown line stop.
This yoga solution seemed like too much work.
And so, like so many, I stopped going out of inconvenience (though I still have a few classes left there).
Until tonight. Tonight is class one at Yoga Studio two. Studio two is also located west, but has parking. Parking eliminates the bus and the train nightmare, so I'm game.
I'm cautiously optimistic that studio 2 is the yoga I've been dreaming of.
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
Damn You, piriformis!
On Good Friday, I woke up early and got my 9 mile long run out of the way.
It was my first run testing out Motorola's Motoactiv. My first test product. Thanks Motorola! I'm not going to blog too much about the device yet as I think it's only fitting I use it many times before writing a fair review. But I will say this - Out of the box, it had music loaded and was ready to go - literally. For some reason, that made me really happy.
Not the best 9 miler of my life. I dressed too warm. I was in a rush.
I got home, showered, threw my bag in the car and started driving south. Far south. Hundreds and hundreds of miles.
Around mile 100 I was feeling a bit stiff. Then it dawned on me. I didn't stretch after my run. I too often forget to do this.
I'd had a stiffness in my hip earlier in the week which I hadn't given enough thought to.
Over the weekend, it throbbed more.
Now the drive back from my southern destination was really the killer. My hip hurt when I drove. Because driving requires use of your hips? Who knew? Either way, not a good sign.
Again, not thinking, I rest on Monday and Tuesday. I reintroduce myself to the foam roller. Do some basic yoga. Then out of boredom, do back to back runs later that next week.
The hip's still not liking me. Now I'm listening.
Advil, ice, rest, try to compress, and yes, foam roller, we're hanging out during the 10 o'clock news.
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Shamrock Shuffle 2012
Sunday comes and it's Shuffle time.
Traffic's a bear, though it's what you'd expect 30,000 plus people converging on a few city blocks.
Margo, Chris and I start in corral G. I'd been assigned D based on my Fort2Base race time last summer. The Shuffle allows runners to go down in the alphabet, but not up. I let my friends know I'm attempting to break my previous time. We agree that if we are to get separated, we'll all meet at the end. My strategy is to go out hard and get past the leisurely shufflers. Hopefully I can find a pocket that moves closer to my pace.
The first mile is constant bobbing and weaving. I was prepared for that, but thought I'd been more efficient than a 9:45 mile. I decide I need to step it up to break my time. At the 5K, I'm averaging at 9:24.
Ever since the Fort2Base run, something's changed in the way I mentally approach a race. I used to concern myself with pace. In turn, I think I shortchanged my abilities and overall fitness. A race should be a challenge. So now, instead of letting the voice in my head say 'You better slow down,' I'm encouraging myself to think 'You can keep this pace. You can keep going to the finish.' It seems to work, though maybe it's the drink three ____ strategy that's trimming down my times.
The race route turns onto Michigan Avenue as we run south to Roosevelt. I try hard not to look at each numbered street sign reminding of the inevitable. That damn bridge. But as I work my way south, I remind myself this isn't the marathon. In fact, I'm only on mile 4. Time to show the Roosevelt street bridge once again it can be conquered.
As I reach the crest of the bridge, I set my sights on the finish line on Columbus. I measure the distance to determine when I should start sprinting. I decide now is as good a time as ever.
I hit the finish line at 46:22. A two minute improvement.
This calls for a Revolution Brewing Hombre Burger and a beer!
Traffic's a bear, though it's what you'd expect 30,000 plus people converging on a few city blocks.
Margo, Chris and I start in corral G. I'd been assigned D based on my Fort2Base race time last summer. The Shuffle allows runners to go down in the alphabet, but not up. I let my friends know I'm attempting to break my previous time. We agree that if we are to get separated, we'll all meet at the end. My strategy is to go out hard and get past the leisurely shufflers. Hopefully I can find a pocket that moves closer to my pace.
The first mile is constant bobbing and weaving. I was prepared for that, but thought I'd been more efficient than a 9:45 mile. I decide I need to step it up to break my time. At the 5K, I'm averaging at 9:24.
Ever since the Fort2Base run, something's changed in the way I mentally approach a race. I used to concern myself with pace. In turn, I think I shortchanged my abilities and overall fitness. A race should be a challenge. So now, instead of letting the voice in my head say 'You better slow down,' I'm encouraging myself to think 'You can keep this pace. You can keep going to the finish.' It seems to work, though maybe it's the drink three ____ strategy that's trimming down my times.
The race route turns onto Michigan Avenue as we run south to Roosevelt. I try hard not to look at each numbered street sign reminding of the inevitable. That damn bridge. But as I work my way south, I remind myself this isn't the marathon. In fact, I'm only on mile 4. Time to show the Roosevelt street bridge once again it can be conquered.
As I reach the crest of the bridge, I set my sights on the finish line on Columbus. I measure the distance to determine when I should start sprinting. I decide now is as good a time as ever.
I hit the finish line at 46:22. A two minute improvement.
This calls for a Revolution Brewing Hombre Burger and a beer!
Winning* the Shamrock Shuffle
Last week I mentioned to my boss I'd be visiting the Shamrock Shuffle Expo Friday around lunch. I told him I was running it for the first time in 5 years.
He was busy responding to an email on his iphone, so I dropped the subject. A few minutes later, he followed by asking, "Are you going to place?" As in, am I going to get in the top three. For a moment, I'm shocked and somewhat honored. There's no way I'll ever be a contender, but he isn't aware of that.
I told him my goal was to beat my former best Shuffle time of 48:22 (around 9:45/pace). Which is still about four and a half minutes too slow (per mile) to win the Shamrock Shuffle. I read off last year's times, which leads in to a conversation about who holds the world record in the mile.
More googling, followed by what I can only assume is boredom on his end.
Overall, he's a good sport about all the aspects of training - lunchtime runs, showing up to work like I just rolled out of the shower (since it was more important to run before work than look presentable), eating like a horse, icing aliments on top of my desk, and talking about any and all things running.
He was busy responding to an email on his iphone, so I dropped the subject. A few minutes later, he followed by asking, "Are you going to place?" As in, am I going to get in the top three. For a moment, I'm shocked and somewhat honored. There's no way I'll ever be a contender, but he isn't aware of that.
I told him my goal was to beat my former best Shuffle time of 48:22 (around 9:45/pace). Which is still about four and a half minutes too slow (per mile) to win the Shamrock Shuffle. I read off last year's times, which leads in to a conversation about who holds the world record in the mile.
More googling, followed by what I can only assume is boredom on his end.
Overall, he's a good sport about all the aspects of training - lunchtime runs, showing up to work like I just rolled out of the shower (since it was more important to run before work than look presentable), eating like a horse, icing aliments on top of my desk, and talking about any and all things running.
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Marathon First Timer
Back in February, registration opened for the Chicago Marathon. A few days later, it closed. The fastest sell out in the event's 36 year history.
On opening day, a co-worker came by my office asking if I had signed up. I said I hadn't yet, but I planned to. I could sense he was interested, so I asked if he was going to sign up. He said he was thinking about it.
As I heard the race was filling up at a record pace the next day, I asked him if he was going to sign up. He said he might over the weekend. I let him know that I had signed up.
Though he was still sorting it out in his head, I started getting really excited for him. He was thinking about training for his first marathon. This is awesome! Very quickly, I got to the point where I couldn't contain my excitement and started emailing him. My first email was something like:
"I heard 13,000 people registered the first day. That's a record. It may sell out in the next few days. You should sign up"
This started an email chain, which resulted in him coming in my office the next day and throwing a piece of paper on my desk. It was his registration confirmation. Later, I walked down in to his office and saw a look of distress. He asked me "What have I done?"
I told him he was going to be accomplishing an amazing feat and a life experience before the end of the year. I talked him in to something good - not like going on a spur of the moment trip to Vegas.
He said that he may rather go to Vegas.
On opening day, a co-worker came by my office asking if I had signed up. I said I hadn't yet, but I planned to. I could sense he was interested, so I asked if he was going to sign up. He said he was thinking about it.
As I heard the race was filling up at a record pace the next day, I asked him if he was going to sign up. He said he might over the weekend. I let him know that I had signed up.
Though he was still sorting it out in his head, I started getting really excited for him. He was thinking about training for his first marathon. This is awesome! Very quickly, I got to the point where I couldn't contain my excitement and started emailing him. My first email was something like:
"I heard 13,000 people registered the first day. That's a record. It may sell out in the next few days. You should sign up"
This started an email chain, which resulted in him coming in my office the next day and throwing a piece of paper on my desk. It was his registration confirmation. Later, I walked down in to his office and saw a look of distress. He asked me "What have I done?"
I told him he was going to be accomplishing an amazing feat and a life experience before the end of the year. I talked him in to something good - not like going on a spur of the moment trip to Vegas.
He said that he may rather go to Vegas.
Friday, March 16, 2012
Rudi
A number of months ago, possibly during a post-marathon haze, Brian mentioned a great race.
The Napa to Sonoma Half Marathon.
13.1 miles through wine country. Who wouldn't want to do that?
He sent an email out to a group of our running friends regarding registration. No one acted on it.
The race sold out in a day.
In early February, I started thinking of racing season. I had lined up a few Chicago races in the spring, Ragnar in the early summer, followed by the marathon in the fall.
But I didn't have a Nashville, or an Indy, or a duathlon to speak of.
And I started thinking about Napa. And Sonoma. And running. So I went to the race's website. To my surprise, the race allows registration transfers. Which got me thinking, maybe I could get into this race afterall.
I went on the race's facebook fan page and pleaded my case - If anyone had signed up and couldn't run, well, I was their girl.
Within two weeks, I had a message from Rudi.
Rudi had signed up for the race but wasn't going to be able to make it out to California in July. She was currently training for the Publix Marathon and taking care of her grandson.
We exchanged a few emails and discovered we had a central Illinois connection.
We transfered information and I sent her a check.
Today she emailed me to say she had received my letter. She was surprised to see I was from Chicago. She mentioned her daughter lives in Evanston. We exchanged a few emails about the area, to which she followed the last one with, "I'll be in town in a few weeks, want to meet for a run?"
Why, yes, I would.
I love runners.
The Napa to Sonoma Half Marathon.
13.1 miles through wine country. Who wouldn't want to do that?
He sent an email out to a group of our running friends regarding registration. No one acted on it.
The race sold out in a day.
In early February, I started thinking of racing season. I had lined up a few Chicago races in the spring, Ragnar in the early summer, followed by the marathon in the fall.
But I didn't have a Nashville, or an Indy, or a duathlon to speak of.
And I started thinking about Napa. And Sonoma. And running. So I went to the race's website. To my surprise, the race allows registration transfers. Which got me thinking, maybe I could get into this race afterall.
I went on the race's facebook fan page and pleaded my case - If anyone had signed up and couldn't run, well, I was their girl.
Within two weeks, I had a message from Rudi.
Rudi had signed up for the race but wasn't going to be able to make it out to California in July. She was currently training for the Publix Marathon and taking care of her grandson.
We exchanged a few emails and discovered we had a central Illinois connection.
We transfered information and I sent her a check.
Today she emailed me to say she had received my letter. She was surprised to see I was from Chicago. She mentioned her daughter lives in Evanston. We exchanged a few emails about the area, to which she followed the last one with, "I'll be in town in a few weeks, want to meet for a run?"
Why, yes, I would.
I love runners.
Where Are the Barefoot Runners?
Yesterday I read another article on barefoot running.
It got me thinking. Then wondering.
Have I ever run across a barefoot runner?
No, I haven't.
I like the idea of barefoot running. The theory that a human 'has everything they already need to run' seems right on. I recently heard that children posses better running form than adults because they run naturally as opposed to adults who fall into habits (be good or bad) over time.
I have run in to a few people wearing Vibram Five Fingers or other minimalist shoes. But I always wonder how far they're running or how often they run.
I've thought about barefoot or minimalist shoe running. I'm just not sure how I'd incorporate it in to training. I think I'd have to ditch my Saucony's for, well, nothing. Or close to nothing.
If Nike and other big athletic retailers have, (to quote the idea in the book Born To Run) 'created the need for running shoes', I'm ok with giving money to the man and buying in to the idea.
I recently compared barefoot running to sleeping on the floor. Sure, it's available, but why would you when there's a posturepedic mattress right next to it?
It got me thinking. Then wondering.
Have I ever run across a barefoot runner?
No, I haven't.
I like the idea of barefoot running. The theory that a human 'has everything they already need to run' seems right on. I recently heard that children posses better running form than adults because they run naturally as opposed to adults who fall into habits (be good or bad) over time.
I have run in to a few people wearing Vibram Five Fingers or other minimalist shoes. But I always wonder how far they're running or how often they run.
I've thought about barefoot or minimalist shoe running. I'm just not sure how I'd incorporate it in to training. I think I'd have to ditch my Saucony's for, well, nothing. Or close to nothing.
If Nike and other big athletic retailers have, (to quote the idea in the book Born To Run) 'created the need for running shoes', I'm ok with giving money to the man and buying in to the idea.
I recently compared barefoot running to sleeping on the floor. Sure, it's available, but why would you when there's a posturepedic mattress right next to it?
Thursday, February 16, 2012
February, You're Pretty Awesome Too
January's weather was amazing.
February's turning out to be pretty awesome as well.
Last night, I listened to Tom Skilling speak with excitement as he talked about our unseasonably warm winter. I get a kick out of Skilling. His voice rises and hands move as he talks about isobars, reflectivity in the jet stream, and cumulus clouds. If someone was ever excited about the weather, it's him.
To date, 2012 has brought 8x more 40 degree days than 2011 for a total of 40 days - incredible to think when we're just halfway through February.
Winter Training isn't so bad after all, eh?
February's turning out to be pretty awesome as well.
Last night, I listened to Tom Skilling speak with excitement as he talked about our unseasonably warm winter. I get a kick out of Skilling. His voice rises and hands move as he talks about isobars, reflectivity in the jet stream, and cumulus clouds. If someone was ever excited about the weather, it's him.
To date, 2012 has brought 8x more 40 degree days than 2011 for a total of 40 days - incredible to think when we're just halfway through February.
Winter Training isn't so bad after all, eh?
Wednesday, February 08, 2012
Marathon 2011 Memory
I remember the exact moment this photo was taken. After completing the race, I hobbled through the chute and grabbed a bag of nutrition, water, the finishers medal, gatorade, and most importantly, that post race beer. It's true, it's the best tasting beer you'll ever have.
I cautiously walked over to gear check to grab my bag. A short walk later I came upon an open bench where I traded my shoes for flip flops. When I stood up my body felt tight and sore. I took a moment to look out at my surroundings.
And there it was, Buckingham Fountain. A spot I run by quite often but rarely find the time to admire.
Cheers to 2011 and doing it all again in 2012.
Monday, February 06, 2012
Registration for Chicago Marathon 2012
Wednesday, February 1st. I headed to work with a thought in the back of my mind - Marathon registration opens today. Marathon registration for runners is comparable to opening day to baseball fans. Excitement is in the air. The possibilities are endless. It will be a long season.
I didn't sign up first thing in the morning. Or at lunch. Or when I got home that evening. I still wasn't sure. Would I do Chicago again?
That evening, I had an email from the Marathon. A record 13,000 people had signed up on the first day. A first day registration record.
I thought long and hard about what I was going to do. I had looked in to running an international race or of running a few destination U.S. half marathons. A final decision had yet to be made.
So I approached it from another angle. If I had any desire to do Chicago again, I was going to need to make a decision and fast. Was I OK with not running Chicago in 2012? What if that meant no marathon in 2012? Or if I meant a marathon in another city, where? Would another city's marathon compare to Chicago?
Thursday, February 2nd, I received another email from the Marathon. Registration had reached 30,000. I decided I didn't want to take a chance of missing the opportunity, and I signed up. As I signed up, I texted Brian. He said he'd been thinking of the same thing. If I was going to sign up, then he would sign up too.
Brian and I, now accomplices in registration, focused our attention on to stage 2: Talking others in to registering for the marathon. Brian worked over a friend on facebook. I worked on a co-worker. By the end of the day Friday, we were both successful. Training is more fun when you're sharing the experience with someone. Especially a first timer.
I can't wait.
This morning a third email came from the marathon. The race is expected to sell out today.
Just five days after opening. Unbelievable and somehow, quite exciting.
I didn't sign up first thing in the morning. Or at lunch. Or when I got home that evening. I still wasn't sure. Would I do Chicago again?
That evening, I had an email from the Marathon. A record 13,000 people had signed up on the first day. A first day registration record.
I thought long and hard about what I was going to do. I had looked in to running an international race or of running a few destination U.S. half marathons. A final decision had yet to be made.
So I approached it from another angle. If I had any desire to do Chicago again, I was going to need to make a decision and fast. Was I OK with not running Chicago in 2012? What if that meant no marathon in 2012? Or if I meant a marathon in another city, where? Would another city's marathon compare to Chicago?
Thursday, February 2nd, I received another email from the Marathon. Registration had reached 30,000. I decided I didn't want to take a chance of missing the opportunity, and I signed up. As I signed up, I texted Brian. He said he'd been thinking of the same thing. If I was going to sign up, then he would sign up too.
Brian and I, now accomplices in registration, focused our attention on to stage 2: Talking others in to registering for the marathon. Brian worked over a friend on facebook. I worked on a co-worker. By the end of the day Friday, we were both successful. Training is more fun when you're sharing the experience with someone. Especially a first timer.
I can't wait.
This morning a third email came from the marathon. The race is expected to sell out today.
Just five days after opening. Unbelievable and somehow, quite exciting.
Elite Race Shirts
When I first started running races, I remember the excitement of packet pick-up.
In a race packet, you'll find your bib, a timing chip, flyers or special discounts, race information and, most importantly, the t-shirt.
Though a recent 'Dear Miles' column in Runner's World says differently, I've always believed that you can't wear the race t-shirt until after you've finished the race. But more power to anyone that chooses to wear it during.
I remember my first few shirts. Long sleeved cotton t-shirts. I was so proud I'd run the Reindeer Run 5K, the Run to the Zoo, and the Wrigley Run. Those shirts saw a lot of use.
As I ran more races, I got more shirts. Including unisex dry-fit tech shirts. Now I'd reached the next level of race-shirting. I separated the cotton t-shirts from the tech t-shirts.
Then came gender-specific tech t-shirts. And v-neck. And long sleeve. A long sleeve zip up. And tank tops.
As the collection grew, many of the cotton shirts were scarified. I kept a few in memory of the first races and others were donated to Goodwill.
There's now a full drawer of race shirts. I weed out the shirts that are too big, too short, or create chafing. I like a mix of sleeveless and short sleeves. I prefer Nike, Asics and Green Layer brands. I guess you could say I keep only the elite of race shirts.
At this rate, I'm likely to be set on running/workout shirts for a number of years.
One less piece of gear I need to buy. I like that.
In a race packet, you'll find your bib, a timing chip, flyers or special discounts, race information and, most importantly, the t-shirt.
Though a recent 'Dear Miles' column in Runner's World says differently, I've always believed that you can't wear the race t-shirt until after you've finished the race. But more power to anyone that chooses to wear it during.
I remember my first few shirts. Long sleeved cotton t-shirts. I was so proud I'd run the Reindeer Run 5K, the Run to the Zoo, and the Wrigley Run. Those shirts saw a lot of use.
As I ran more races, I got more shirts. Including unisex dry-fit tech shirts. Now I'd reached the next level of race-shirting. I separated the cotton t-shirts from the tech t-shirts.
Then came gender-specific tech t-shirts. And v-neck. And long sleeve. A long sleeve zip up. And tank tops.
As the collection grew, many of the cotton shirts were scarified. I kept a few in memory of the first races and others were donated to Goodwill.
There's now a full drawer of race shirts. I weed out the shirts that are too big, too short, or create chafing. I like a mix of sleeveless and short sleeves. I prefer Nike, Asics and Green Layer brands. I guess you could say I keep only the elite of race shirts.
At this rate, I'm likely to be set on running/workout shirts for a number of years.
One less piece of gear I need to buy. I like that.
Thursday, February 02, 2012
An Uncomfortable Love of Peanut Butter
One night at Lifetime, I packed my bag in the locker room after working out. A woman came in and sat on the bench near me. She was eating peanut butter with a spoon. I remember thinking the choice was quite odd. Just peanut butter? Not an apple with peanut butter? Or peanut butter and crackers?
I didn't ask about her choice, nor did I think about it until recently.
Over the last few years while training, I've made an effort to keep a stock of healthy snacks at work. Once you leave the office here, you wander in to the tourist's candy land. Candy land isn't a bad place to be as a tourist - you're likely not staying there long. But if you work in candy land, well, there in lies a problem.
I started bringing an apple and peanut butter for an afternoon snack. I'd keep the apples in the fridge down the hall and the jar of peanut butter in my desk drawer.
At first, I was bringing an apple every once and awhile. Maybe one a week if that. Sometimes I wouldn't remember about the peanut butter.
Then it developed in to an apple a few times a week, always with peanut butter. It was a delicious snack. Consumption went up and extra crunchy peanut butter became a common item on the grocery list.
The process of cutting up and apple and putting peanut butter on the slices became too time-consuming, so I've moved to streamlined version; Eat an apple with one hand, spoon in peanut butter with the other.
Over time, the apple to peanut butter ratio has become unbalanced. Usually the apple is still present, but maybe it's too small in comparison to the peanut butter craving. Which leads to a higher peanut butter intake, and thus, we now buy peanut butter at Costco.
On a few occasions, a co-worker has walked by my office to see me eating peanut butter right out of the jar. I know they find this odd. I used to find this odd. Now I'm the lady at Lifetime Fitness and I love peanut butter.
I didn't ask about her choice, nor did I think about it until recently.
Over the last few years while training, I've made an effort to keep a stock of healthy snacks at work. Once you leave the office here, you wander in to the tourist's candy land. Candy land isn't a bad place to be as a tourist - you're likely not staying there long. But if you work in candy land, well, there in lies a problem.
I started bringing an apple and peanut butter for an afternoon snack. I'd keep the apples in the fridge down the hall and the jar of peanut butter in my desk drawer.
At first, I was bringing an apple every once and awhile. Maybe one a week if that. Sometimes I wouldn't remember about the peanut butter.
Then it developed in to an apple a few times a week, always with peanut butter. It was a delicious snack. Consumption went up and extra crunchy peanut butter became a common item on the grocery list.
The process of cutting up and apple and putting peanut butter on the slices became too time-consuming, so I've moved to streamlined version; Eat an apple with one hand, spoon in peanut butter with the other.
Over time, the apple to peanut butter ratio has become unbalanced. Usually the apple is still present, but maybe it's too small in comparison to the peanut butter craving. Which leads to a higher peanut butter intake, and thus, we now buy peanut butter at Costco.
On a few occasions, a co-worker has walked by my office to see me eating peanut butter right out of the jar. I know they find this odd. I used to find this odd. Now I'm the lady at Lifetime Fitness and I love peanut butter.
Monday, January 23, 2012
Beer Run! article in Runner's World
I've subscribed to Runner's World for about six years now.
I don't recall ever reading an article that so deeply described the relationship of running and drinking, yet there it was a four page color spread in Runner's World.
Maybe there is something scientific to be said for drinking 3 beers and getting a PR after all.
http://www.runnersworld.com/article/0,7120,s6-242-302--14186-0,00.html
I don't recall ever reading an article that so deeply described the relationship of running and drinking, yet there it was a four page color spread in Runner's World.
Maybe there is something scientific to be said for drinking 3 beers and getting a PR after all.
http://www.runnersworld.com/article/0,7120,s6-242-302--14186-0,00.html
Spring Races: Signing up 'Early'
I'm turning over a new leaf in 2012. I'm not going to wait until the last minute to sign up for races.
Though I may be motivated to train, I lose it when it comes to committing to races.
There's really no excuse for it. I'm training year round.
In the spirit of this, I've signed up for the CARA Lakefront 10 and the Shamrock Shuffle.
This will be my first Lakefront 10, but I figured it's well-placed on the calendar and it won't hurt to do another ten mile race before the Solider Field 10.
I've had a few year hiatus from the Shamrock Shuffle. The last time I ran the race was 2008 I think. Vacations and training for other races have gotten in the way the last few years. A few friends are back in this year, so why not, right?
Though I may be motivated to train, I lose it when it comes to committing to races.
There's really no excuse for it. I'm training year round.
In the spirit of this, I've signed up for the CARA Lakefront 10 and the Shamrock Shuffle.
This will be my first Lakefront 10, but I figured it's well-placed on the calendar and it won't hurt to do another ten mile race before the Solider Field 10.
I've had a few year hiatus from the Shamrock Shuffle. The last time I ran the race was 2008 I think. Vacations and training for other races have gotten in the way the last few years. A few friends are back in this year, so why not, right?
Thursday, January 05, 2012
Dear Unseasonably Warm January:
I Love You.
You're the best thing that's happened to January. Ever.
Instead of walking briskly from building to building, I'm at more of a leisurely stroll.
It is in the 40's in early January, after all.
Instead of forcing myself to do treadmill workouts, I'm happily running outside.
Forget the 40's! 54 degrees and sunny on Friday's run. You keep getting better!
I've never been so happy to say we didn't have a white christmas, or new year's.
So far January, you rule.
Keep it up.
You're the best thing that's happened to January. Ever.
Instead of walking briskly from building to building, I'm at more of a leisurely stroll.
It is in the 40's in early January, after all.
Instead of forcing myself to do treadmill workouts, I'm happily running outside.
Forget the 40's! 54 degrees and sunny on Friday's run. You keep getting better!
I've never been so happy to say we didn't have a white christmas, or new year's.
So far January, you rule.
Keep it up.
Thursday, December 29, 2011
The Runner to Runner Wave or Nod
This afternoon I went on a run. It was 44 degrees.
I saw a dozen or so runners along the path. About half of them gave a wave or nodded. I returned the greeting.
Are runners more friendly during the holidays? Or does the seasonably-mild weather bring it out? Hardly anyone waves along the lakefront path in the summer. Maybe that's because we're too busy trying to contend with all the runner and bike traffic, or we're too focused on training or something else.
I started paying attention to the wave last year as I committed to winter training.
If I have it right, I think the logic goes something like this:
As the weather progressively gets colder, fewer runners venture outside. Now that there's less people, we're more likely to greet the ones we see.
Therefore, at a certain degree Fahrenheit you're left with two types of runners - the hard cores and the crazies.
How do you tell the difference between the hard core and a crazy? Two ways - Gear and speed.
The hard core people wave on the premise that we're all out there to get our training in, regardless of the weather. They are thinking motivational thoughts like 'Live Strong' or 'Dig Deep.'
The crazy people wave to acknowledge the basis of their craziness. They occasionally ask themselves, 'Why the hell am I doing this?' and consider visiting their gym's treadmill for their next run.
The wave or nod can be used interchangeably. However, if you are nodded at, you should nod back (and vice versa). If you throw a wave after you've been handed a nod, it's like missing on a high five.
Waving and nodding seems to be more common in the City.
Along the North Shore, the wave is sometimes followed with a 'Good Morning' which can be quite pleasant. Though I usually don't get a reply in. Then I feel bad I didn't verbally greet the friendly runner. Also on the North Shore, drivers will back up if they are in the right of way of the sidewalk to let a runner through. Amazing! But that's another blog post.
On the rare occasion that I come in contact with another runner in the southwest burbs, I think they must be in shock or don't know of the wave. Maybe we should start the trend?
I saw a dozen or so runners along the path. About half of them gave a wave or nodded. I returned the greeting.
Are runners more friendly during the holidays? Or does the seasonably-mild weather bring it out? Hardly anyone waves along the lakefront path in the summer. Maybe that's because we're too busy trying to contend with all the runner and bike traffic, or we're too focused on training or something else.
I started paying attention to the wave last year as I committed to winter training.
If I have it right, I think the logic goes something like this:
As the weather progressively gets colder, fewer runners venture outside. Now that there's less people, we're more likely to greet the ones we see.
Therefore, at a certain degree Fahrenheit you're left with two types of runners - the hard cores and the crazies.
How do you tell the difference between the hard core and a crazy? Two ways - Gear and speed.
The hard core people wave on the premise that we're all out there to get our training in, regardless of the weather. They are thinking motivational thoughts like 'Live Strong' or 'Dig Deep.'
The crazy people wave to acknowledge the basis of their craziness. They occasionally ask themselves, 'Why the hell am I doing this?' and consider visiting their gym's treadmill for their next run.
The wave or nod can be used interchangeably. However, if you are nodded at, you should nod back (and vice versa). If you throw a wave after you've been handed a nod, it's like missing on a high five.
Waving and nodding seems to be more common in the City.
Along the North Shore, the wave is sometimes followed with a 'Good Morning' which can be quite pleasant. Though I usually don't get a reply in. Then I feel bad I didn't verbally greet the friendly runner. Also on the North Shore, drivers will back up if they are in the right of way of the sidewalk to let a runner through. Amazing! But that's another blog post.
On the rare occasion that I come in contact with another runner in the southwest burbs, I think they must be in shock or don't know of the wave. Maybe we should start the trend?
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Soldier Field 10
Dear Soldier Field 10,
We need to have a talk.
As you know, we have a sorted history.
In 2007, I'd signed up and trained with your official training program. I made it to 8 of 12 weeks before coming down with my first running injury. I was not able to run that year. It was the only time I missed a race.
The next two years, I was out of town Memorial Day weekend.
In 2010, after working through an injury all winter, I decided, due to our history of course, that you couldn't be my comeback race.
Tricia and I volunteered with Salute and handed out finisher's medals. Though I wasn't running, you still got the upper hand when you possessed my brand new cell phone to land in to a toilet at the stadium.
Now we're nearing the end of 2011. Nearly five years.
So I made a decision. I signed up again. This time, I will run you.
And so will some of my friends. The stars have aligned.
And there's nothing you can do about it.
We need to have a talk.
As you know, we have a sorted history.
In 2007, I'd signed up and trained with your official training program. I made it to 8 of 12 weeks before coming down with my first running injury. I was not able to run that year. It was the only time I missed a race.
The next two years, I was out of town Memorial Day weekend.
In 2010, after working through an injury all winter, I decided, due to our history of course, that you couldn't be my comeback race.
Tricia and I volunteered with Salute and handed out finisher's medals. Though I wasn't running, you still got the upper hand when you possessed my brand new cell phone to land in to a toilet at the stadium.
Now we're nearing the end of 2011. Nearly five years.
So I made a decision. I signed up again. This time, I will run you.
And so will some of my friends. The stars have aligned.
And there's nothing you can do about it.
Red Bull Trail Daze
Thanksgiving has come and gone. Now it's December.
Racing season has officially ended. Well, maybe.
Red Bull Trail Daze was held on December 10th at 10am in Pulaski Woods in Palos.
After learning a few friends had signed up, I decided to as well.
Race morning was chilly. The alley was slippery. I scrapped a light layer of ice off the windshield.
Then I headed to Palos, where it wasn't getting any warmer.
On the drive down, I thought about the race format. All runners would start as one group and run the first quarter or so mile together. Then each runner would have to choose a trail - easy, medium or hard. The easy trail would be a longer distance. The hard trail, the shortest. The goal was that you'd finish around the same time regardless of what path you chose.
Since this was my first attempt at a trail run, and, because I am so prone to falling on flat pavement, I'd choose the easy trail, of course. Then again, if I wanted easy, I could have just done a quick run from my place and I'd be home and out of the cold already. So maybe I'll do medium.
I went back and forth between the two until arriving at the start line with Kim, Jen and Sara. After some discussion, Sara and Jen planned on doing the medium. Kim, who ran Trail Daze last year, was going to go for the gold.
We were all bundled up in layers of running gear. I was never happier than I bought a pair of fleece lined running tights at Universal Sole a few weeks ago! As the race started, it quickly became hard to recognize runners, and I lost Jen and Sara. Kim was right in front of me. As we approached the split in the path, I decided to go with Kim.
After a short stretch of what I thought was somewhat challenging terrain, we met the real trail. The trail was narrow, pitched, slick, full of tree roots, down branches and trees. If that wasn't enough, some loose rocks and hills were added in to the mix.
The question now wasn't if I was going to fall, it was when. And after I fell the first time, which I was bound to do, would I fall again?
Kim was a good lead as we trekked through with a small steady group. Then we hit oncoming traffic. Our path was a partial out and back. We gave way to the faster runners and tried our best to keep our footing.
Just as we were wondering where the turn around was, we saw a very steep hill. We were to climb the hill and then come straight down it. On the way up, we looked for steady footing. At the top, we feared falling down before we had a chance to brace ourselves. On the way down, we grabbed for branches and tree trunks to slow down. Somehow we made it. It was one of a few truly challenging areas of the path.
Not to discount the trail's overall rating of hard. By the end of the 4 mile trail, I felt as if I'd gone twice as far due to the terrain. I was also mentally worn out from all the decision making that went with the run to keep the best forward momentum.
First Trail Daze = success
Number of falls = 2
Injuries = One bruised shin
Post run breakfast = french toast
Racing season has officially ended. Well, maybe.
Red Bull Trail Daze was held on December 10th at 10am in Pulaski Woods in Palos.
After learning a few friends had signed up, I decided to as well.
Race morning was chilly. The alley was slippery. I scrapped a light layer of ice off the windshield.
Then I headed to Palos, where it wasn't getting any warmer.
On the drive down, I thought about the race format. All runners would start as one group and run the first quarter or so mile together. Then each runner would have to choose a trail - easy, medium or hard. The easy trail would be a longer distance. The hard trail, the shortest. The goal was that you'd finish around the same time regardless of what path you chose.
Since this was my first attempt at a trail run, and, because I am so prone to falling on flat pavement, I'd choose the easy trail, of course. Then again, if I wanted easy, I could have just done a quick run from my place and I'd be home and out of the cold already. So maybe I'll do medium.
I went back and forth between the two until arriving at the start line with Kim, Jen and Sara. After some discussion, Sara and Jen planned on doing the medium. Kim, who ran Trail Daze last year, was going to go for the gold.
We were all bundled up in layers of running gear. I was never happier than I bought a pair of fleece lined running tights at Universal Sole a few weeks ago! As the race started, it quickly became hard to recognize runners, and I lost Jen and Sara. Kim was right in front of me. As we approached the split in the path, I decided to go with Kim.
After a short stretch of what I thought was somewhat challenging terrain, we met the real trail. The trail was narrow, pitched, slick, full of tree roots, down branches and trees. If that wasn't enough, some loose rocks and hills were added in to the mix.
The question now wasn't if I was going to fall, it was when. And after I fell the first time, which I was bound to do, would I fall again?
Kim was a good lead as we trekked through with a small steady group. Then we hit oncoming traffic. Our path was a partial out and back. We gave way to the faster runners and tried our best to keep our footing.
Just as we were wondering where the turn around was, we saw a very steep hill. We were to climb the hill and then come straight down it. On the way up, we looked for steady footing. At the top, we feared falling down before we had a chance to brace ourselves. On the way down, we grabbed for branches and tree trunks to slow down. Somehow we made it. It was one of a few truly challenging areas of the path.
Not to discount the trail's overall rating of hard. By the end of the 4 mile trail, I felt as if I'd gone twice as far due to the terrain. I was also mentally worn out from all the decision making that went with the run to keep the best forward momentum.
First Trail Daze = success
Number of falls = 2
Injuries = One bruised shin
Post run breakfast = french toast
Tuesday, December 06, 2011
Drink 3 _____, Get a PR
There's a strange phenomenon in the air.
It goes something like this:
Drink three alcoholic drinks.
Get less sleep than you normally would.
Run a PR the next morning.
It all started by accident. It was the day before the Fort 2 Base Run. I had babysat my godson during the day. Afterwards, his parents and I went out to lunch at their favorite Mexican restaurant. As with any great Mexican restaurant, there were margaritas.
That evening, I went to bed later than planned. I'd be up at 4am to pick up friends and then head to Great Lakes Naval Station for the race.
I remember thinking on the car ride there - What am I thinking running this race? I'm on five hours of sleep and had drinks yesterday. The outcome of the race, as I'd blogged about back in September, was great.
In that 12.5 mile race, I had beat my PR for an 8K and 10K distances and set a PR for a 12.5 mile. Then again, that's an unusual distance as it was in Nautical Miles. I had held a 9:39 pace.
Without much thought, I found myself in the same situation, the night before the Hot Chocolate 15K. I babysat my godson and had a few drinks with his parents when they got home, then went to bed later than planned.
Hot Chocolate 2011 was a PR. 9:41 pace.
Now I'm noticing a pattern. At brunch, I mention this to Brian and Sara. Brian, who'd also set a PR that day, had a few drinks the night before as well. Sara agreed we may be on to something.
Brian and I were now part of the test group of the experiment. We'd need to run another race to gather more data, of course.
The next weekend was The Chicago Perfect 10 Miler. Again using the tried and true three drinks. Another PR. 9:40 pace.
The following weekend was the beginning of turkey trot season. Brian and I checked in with each other the night before - not to figure out race logistics, but to make sure we were both having drinks.
The next day we completed the lincolnwood turkey trot 10k. A PR for us both. 9:13 pace.
Now two and a half weeks later, Brian and Sara have continued with the study. Last weekend, Sara set a half marathon PR in New Mexico and Brian in Vegas. Congrats guys!
Fluke? I think not.
It goes something like this:
Drink three alcoholic drinks.
Get less sleep than you normally would.
Run a PR the next morning.
It all started by accident. It was the day before the Fort 2 Base Run. I had babysat my godson during the day. Afterwards, his parents and I went out to lunch at their favorite Mexican restaurant. As with any great Mexican restaurant, there were margaritas.
That evening, I went to bed later than planned. I'd be up at 4am to pick up friends and then head to Great Lakes Naval Station for the race.
I remember thinking on the car ride there - What am I thinking running this race? I'm on five hours of sleep and had drinks yesterday. The outcome of the race, as I'd blogged about back in September, was great.
In that 12.5 mile race, I had beat my PR for an 8K and 10K distances and set a PR for a 12.5 mile. Then again, that's an unusual distance as it was in Nautical Miles. I had held a 9:39 pace.
Without much thought, I found myself in the same situation, the night before the Hot Chocolate 15K. I babysat my godson and had a few drinks with his parents when they got home, then went to bed later than planned.
Hot Chocolate 2011 was a PR. 9:41 pace.
Now I'm noticing a pattern. At brunch, I mention this to Brian and Sara. Brian, who'd also set a PR that day, had a few drinks the night before as well. Sara agreed we may be on to something.
Brian and I were now part of the test group of the experiment. We'd need to run another race to gather more data, of course.
The next weekend was The Chicago Perfect 10 Miler. Again using the tried and true three drinks. Another PR. 9:40 pace.
The following weekend was the beginning of turkey trot season. Brian and I checked in with each other the night before - not to figure out race logistics, but to make sure we were both having drinks.
The next day we completed the lincolnwood turkey trot 10k. A PR for us both. 9:13 pace.
Now two and a half weeks later, Brian and Sara have continued with the study. Last weekend, Sara set a half marathon PR in New Mexico and Brian in Vegas. Congrats guys!
Fluke? I think not.
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