End of the Season

Today was my last race of the year and it's a good thing too.  I managed to strain or pull or do something to my calf muscle during that first mile up the hill.  In spite of that slight and rather painful hiccup, I finished the race strong and even managed to shave off a few minutes from last year.  

In 2013, I was ready to drop and just about did when I crossed the finish line.  Fast forward to today and I was able to sail across that line and then turn around and watch the others.  I didn't get to kick in my afterburners thanks to that little hiccup, but that didn't diminish my accomplishments.  It was all good even if it was cold.   

I have come to the end my second year of running.  In the past 12 months I ran 16 races for a total of approximately 73 miles.  The goal I set for 2014 was to finish a 10k, which was originally the Bay Bridge Run. Somehow I got talked into running a 10k in February, a lot sooner than the Bay run which was in November.  Not only did I meet that goal, I exceeded it when I ran the 10 miler in October. Now it looks like I'm going to have to set another goal, so I guess it is time to up my distance to a 1/2 marathon.

Although my races are done for the year, I still have to contend with Sadist.  He has kicked my butt the past couple of torture sessions and I do believe he takes a great deal of pleasure in it.  He always has that self satisfied smile as I walk, or in most cases limp, out the door.  One of these days I'm going to kick his butt right back, but until then I'll just drive him nuts. 

Thanksgiving Blessings

In the tradition of the holiday season I thought I would jot down a few of the things I am thankful for.  I know I have visited this theme in the past, but it never hurts to remind one self of all the blessings you have.  So in no particular order, here is this year's things I am thankful for, the fitness version.

1. The friends I have made over the past almost 2 years since I have started running.  I have rekindled old friendships as well as began new ones.  If it weren't for these wonderful people, I know I wouldn't be where I am. 
2. The Sadist.  I may whine and complain about him each week, but in-spite of all that he has continued to believe in me when I haven't.  He can also make me laugh when I feel as though I have nothing to laugh about and finally he has helped me to find my balance in so many ways.
3. Pop.  He has supported me (and pushed and nagged) in so many ways especially when I was ready to quit. He can be annoying that way.
4. Races.  They keep me going when I would rather stay home curled up on my corner of the couch.  They give me an ongoing goal that 
5. The finish line.  I'm surprised that anyone still wants to run with me after listening to my ongoing whine.  (Thank you everyone for putting up with me.)  I have yet to find the "joy" in running, but I have definitely found the "joy" in finishing.  Crossing the finish line gives me a feeling of accomplishment I hadn't felt in so long.   It makes running just a little more bearable.
   
6. Sore muscles. I have spent hours cursing the Sadist for each of those sore muscles, but those sore muscles remind me that I am still kicking and doing quite well  Of course, I won't be telling him that.  He may find more muscles that I didn't know I had.
7. Balance.  When I started this quest, my balance was not the best.  I found it hard to ride a stationary bike without toppling off.  Now I'm a master at that stationary bike.  Maybe in 2015 I'll try out my mountain bike and see how I do.

2014 has been a very good year so far and I am looking forward to seeing what the future brings.  I have one more race and I'll be done for the year.  I've already been signing up for 2015 and one of those races will be a 1/2 marathon (smh).   

Rocking the Army Ten Miler

Over the past few weeks I have started at least 2 blogs only to not finish them.  This time I'm getting it done and I've done good.

I am so proud of myself.  I finished the Army Ten-Miler in a great time for me.  I was pleasantly surprised to find that I finished in 2:17:28.  Actually I was shocked and my pace worked out to 13:44.8 which is only slightly more than my pace from a 10k. Although it wasn't hilly, it did have some ups and down. It had its moments, most of which I rocked.  Those last few miles it got a little harder to rock.

Miles 1 through 6 went rather well with minimal stopping, mostly just for water.  After the 6th mile, things got a little dicey, but I kept going.  My time walking increased, but not more than my running.  By the 9th mile, however, I was mostly walking, but I did manage to run the last half mile to finish with a flourish.  For the first time, my afterburners did not fire.  My left foot was killing me and I just didn't have the umph by then. 

 

The best part was that Marcus and Terri were there to cheer me on.  It was great seeing them as I came down the hill between the 8th and 9th mile.  It provided just the right motivation as I was fading, at least for a few moments anyway. They even got a rather good picture of me running.  Usually, my running pics don't look all that good.  This one does and it is nice to have something other than a selfie.

If you had told me 18 months ago, when I started running, that I would complete a 10 miler, I would have laughed and swore that was impossible.  I guess this means things can be possible.  Those last 4 miles may not have been pretty, but I did them.  Go me!  

What a fabulous day.

Good Run, Bad Time

I ran the Baltimore Women's Classic 5k today and I'm a little disappointed. I know, I know, it isn't about the time, it is that I finished it.  I am thrilled that I finished and finished strong, but I'm not happy with my time.  I had one goal (aside from finishing) and that was to do at least 1 second better than last year.  I failed miserably and I really hate that.  I was almost 3 minutes slower, which makes no sense to me. 

I felt good in this run.  I felt strong and was very consistent with running, which I did more than walking.  I am happy that I did finish strong and that it felt good.  Usually that first mile is killer, but I was feeling energetic and well, as the crew would say, grumpy. Apparently running grumpy did not help me this time.  I'm just bummed.  My next run is a 6k in a couple of weeks and I better see some improvement or else grumpy will be the nicest description of me.  

There were over 3,000 woman running today and when we were lined up, I actually jumped up to see over the heads.  It wasn't until after I did it a second time that I realized I had actually jumped.  It may not sound very exciting and to probably just about everyone but me, it isn't.  Jumping is one of those things I have had so much trouble doing.  

My ability to jump and lack there of, is one of the common exchanges between the Sadist and I. I say I can't and he says I can. I'm not sure I'm going to tell him about this.  First, I don't want the "I told you so" and second I can just see all the new exercises focusing on that new skill.   I think I'll keep it to myself for a while.  What he doesn't know won't hurt me. 

In my new quest to log my meals, I did pretty good. I missed one day and well that was because I definitely went off the reservation with my eating.  Even though I am just worried about logging right now, I really don't like seeing when the calories are more than they should be.  Aside from my missed day, I stayed on track and even stayed within my calorie range.  

Logging my meals also helped me to make some better choices.  Every time I thought about grabbing, say a donut, I'd remember I would have to log it and I really didn't want to see it on the log, so I made it fruit instead. I really like fruit, so this is not a hardship.  Well one week down and many more to go.  Thanks Maria and Terri for taking this journey with me.  It definitely helps.

Back on Board

It has been quite a while since I last posted.  This is not to say that my life has been boring, just that I haven’t had the words to express.  In a nutshell, the last two months have included three races (one that was a 10k), the MS Walk and a birthday celebration.  Being the good girl I am, I continued my bi-weekly torture sessions with the Sadist.  They continue to be source of frustration and hilarity all at the same time.  How can a guy make me feel like I’m 90 years old and yet act like a 5 year old?  It amazes me every time.

Yesterday, he was in one of his rare talkative stages.  He is generally a man of few words and for much of the first year I wasn’t even sure he liked me (I’m still not convinced). During one of his stories I had to remind him to give me the weights and tell me what to do.  Of course I immediately regretted it as it was squat day from hell.  On Friday I had done over 300 leg presses and today we were back to torturing my poor legs.  My main challenge with squats is my inability to bend my ankle past 90° (I can’t pick up my toes).  This causes my right leg to do a lot of the work, which is noticeable, as the right leg is larger than the left.  It’s like I have legs of two different people, kind of like Frankenstein.    I worked at engaging my left leg, but when I did that my entire body shifted.  I was no longer center and when I tried to center myself while both legs were engaged, I toppled right over.  Poor guy can’t leave me for long when I do squats.  You just never know when I’m going to take a tumble.  Somehow I managed to complete all the exercises and I’m sure I’ll be feeling it not only in my legs but in my arms as we couldn’t do plain old squats.  He had to make sure the arms were tortured too. 

While working out, the subject of my weight loss or lack thereof came up.  I have managed to stay between the same two numbers for more than a year.  The only time it went down was when I got back from vacation.  I am definitely getting the exercise, so it is time that I actually do something about my eating.  Although I don’t think I overeat, I’m going to try and to put it to the test.  What I really need to do is keep a food diary.  I have done this successfully in the past, but not so much in the last few years.  It’s time to dust off that diary (metaphorically speaking since it is an app on my phone) and start again.  Is anyone interested in doing this activity with me?  I’m serious, I need all the help I can get.  Maybe if I had someone going through it too, I’ll have better success.  Message me if you are interested.  I really want to get off this stupid plateau.  It is quite annoying. 

Run with the Bunnies

Race number four of the year is over and done with and I showed that bunny a thing or two.  Last year when we ran the 1st Annual Easter Bunny Run I was not a happy hopper.  Poor Maria ended up dragging me for much of the race.  After coming off the success of my 1st ever 5k, I had tanked the 2nd.  That was not the result this year.  I didn't do as well as I had hoped but I did good.  I finished in under 40 min and again didn't feel like falling over.   To me that is a success.  There were a couple of dicey moments, but I didn't whine and I persevered. All in all I think I knocked that Bunny on it's butt.

During my finish line sprint, my legs did not want to respond.  I know that part of it was due to the terrible, horrible, no good, very bad Sadist  and yes to those familiar with the book, I am channeling Alexander and his bad day.  My torture on Friday seemed rather benign until Saturday morning, when the straight leg dead lifts and other relatively innocent feeling exercises reared their ugly head.  Even now two days later, I dare not sit for too long or my hamstrings seize up in pain and my lower back isn't much better.  

Usually by the time I see that sadistic man again, I somewhat like him. I think this week, I may just skip the whole, "you aren't that bad" feeling and his cuteness isn't going to make up for it  Of course he'll claim that my hamstrings are sore from the running and I won't disagree that is part of the problem, but not all.  The hamstrings were feeling sore before and during some of the run and luckily as the run progressed they actually felt a little better.  When I started the sprint my legs, especially the left, did not want to respond. Now, as long as I don't move or stay still for too long, I'm okay.  Luckily he is off this upcoming Friday and I get a break from him.  All I have to do is survive on Tuesday and all is good until, most likely, May. Something to look forward to along with another race and the MS Walk.  Woo hoo!

I think, I know, I DID!

Today I completed the Sole of the City 10k.  Yes, I said 10k, as in twice what I normally run.  This wasn't my first one (it was my second) but it was my first big one.  For the first 3-4 miles I chanted to myself, I think I can, I think I can and then it turned into I know I can.  At then end it became I DID.  During the last mile, I did revert to I think I can, but that is okay, since it became I did.  For only being my second 10k ever, I gotta say, I nailed it.  Not only did I beat my best time, I felt good doing it.  It was probably the first time I really felt good running.  Of course now that I said that, I have probably jinxed myself, so it could be the last.

A few runs ago, I realized that no matter how much I tried, running an entire race (no walking at all) was probably out of my reach.  Thanks to some of the challenges I have, my legs tire very quickly, especially when I push way too hard.  Unfortunately, I am stuck with the legs I was given.  (I know because I have put in a request for a new ankle and it was denied.)  So instead of getting frustrated because I had to take walk breaks, I just embraced them.  I did make sure I didn't walk more than I ran and I deemed hills (not little bumps) and cobbles as walk zones.  It wasn't until I got to mile 5 that my legs started to fade, so by mile 6, I was doing a little more walking, but I didn't stop and to be honest, I didn't want to.

My favorite site was seeing the American flag flying at the finish line.  I took one last quick walk break and then broke out in to a my end of race sprint.  I can't finish a race without it.  The cool thing was that I didn't feel like falling over after the race.  Don't get me wrong, I was exhausted and with good reason, but I wasn't fighting to keep myself upright or from puking.  I always have this fear I am going to keel over as I cross the line.  That would humiliate me to no end plus I'd probably get trampled by the other finishers. 

Next week is another run, though this time it'll be a short but somewhat hilly 5k.  Last year it was one of the ones that kicked my butt.  It's time for me to kick back and after this week, I think I just might be able to do it.  Check back next week for the update, because not only do I think I can, I know I can and I will.  :)

Healthy Results to Torture

The pretty side of torture.

Tuesday the Sadist pushed me beyond the limits (again).  As I noted in an earlier blog it is always a bad sign when he hands me a lifesaver at the beginning of the torture session.   Two days later I am still cursing him and wincing in pain when I move my arms.  As I finished the torturous session on Tuesday, I collapsed to the floor and didn't think I would make it up again.  Today I am again wondering why I do this. I figured it was time to remind myself why I continue.  I've already done the why, so I figured it was time to review a few results I may have noticed.

My balance has improved tremendously, though I still look like drunken when I'm tired. When I started this journey, I tipped over more times than not when I tried to do a squat. Thanks to that I was terrified by them. Now, I can actually go at for at least 6 or 7 squats before I even wobble.  Due to my wobbling the Sadist generally stands behind me to ensure I don't over wobble.  Since I don't wobble as much, he doesn't always stay standing behind me.  It seems that when he walks away to do something else, I start wobbling.  I'm not doing it on purpose, but it is quite humorous.  I haven't actually fallen over while doing squats, but there is always a first time for everything.  I'm still iffy on the stability ball, but eh, I need some comedy at these sessions.

I've also noticed that all this core work has done wonders for my posture.  Before the Sadist started torturing me, my posture was abysmal and I could see it especially in my walking.  Now I walk down the street standing tall, at least when I'm not tripping over my own feet. Did you know you get taller when you aren't slouching?  I'm still short, but not as short. I guess all those planks really do have a purpose. 

I know there are other improvements, but I figure I'll save those for another "Why the heck do I do this?" post. I have no doubts there are many more days like that.

Well apparently this hard work and pain is paying off.  Who knew torture could be so healthy and helpful. Tomorrow is leg day and I have told him that I am racing on Saturday.  I really hope he was listening but if he hands me a lifesaver, I have a feeling it isn't going to be good.   Terri keeps telling me I run best when I am grumpy and in a little pain from torture.  Hopefully this will be the case on Saturday.  

Another Year, Another Milestone

Ready to run.

Another year and another milestone met.  In 2013, Hannah ran with me during my first 5k, the Kelly Shamrock 5k, and I met that challenge.  Not only did I meet it, I exceeded it.  This past weekend I ran with Terri, Jenn and Cynthia that same 5k and again I met and exceeded the challenge.  It amazes me every time I complete a race, that I actually completed it.  Anyone who has ever ran with me has listened to me whine for just about the entire time about how much I hate running and that I am never going to do it again.  Yet, somehow, for some reason, I show up again and again.  My running partners do too, so apparently my whining hasn't scared them away, yet.

While I did whine and bitch about the whole experience, I somehow managed to do better than I did in 2013.  This was quite surprising as I was sure that was not going to happen.  I started off strong, but that didn't last too long.  I have to give credit to Jenn, who made sure I kept going even when my legs decided they were done and for putting up with my whines. I really do try to keep the whine in my head, but as I am running, I am also telling myself "you can do it, you can do it."  That does get verbalized as well, but not as much. 

A sea of green at the post race party.

As usual, as we got closer to the finish, my little engine started to pick up speed.  As we turned the corner onto Market and I saw the finish line, my afterburners kicked in.  If only they could kick in about 3 miles earlier instead of just during that last tenth of a mile.   I'm working on it, but so far the best I've been able to do is to have the afterburners kick in more than once in a race. 

A couple of weeks ago I managed to go 8 miles relatively slowly around Loch Raven, but with vacation and travel I have lost some of the advances I made.  My next race and chance to whine about hating to run is a month away and a 10k.  During my last 10k (and first actual race at that distance) I managed to beat my previous 10k time by 16 minutes.  I think my goal will be to maintain that time instead of trying to beat it.   

No more travels and hopefully, winter will exit as spring starts this week.  This should provide me with a chance to get back into training.

The End of 2013 Racing

Today, Maria, Jenn and I ran the last race of the year and it was a doozie.  At least it was for me, who up until today had only ran about 4 to 4.5 miles.  The Celtic Solstice 5 Mile Road Race was exactly as it was billed - 5 miles.  It was a winding and hilly run that seemed to go on forever and it was balmy 39 with a good chance of snow or sleet.  It was a lovely day for a run, NOT. 

I managed to keep pace with Jennifer, who by the way is the Energizer Bunny.  She just keeps going and going.  I on the other hand seem to go in stops and starts. 

My trouble came when we came on around 3.75 to 4 miles and my left leg no longer seemed to listen.  The upper part continued as expected but the foot and ankle was another story.  At one point the girls each grabbed an arm and held me up as I attempted to "pick" up my foot.  I found it actually easier, if you can believe that, to run instead of walk.  At least while I was running I was able to keep my legs bent therefore making my foot work just a little better.   As we came to the last part of the lake section of the run I noticed we were less than a half mile from the finish line and it was all down hill.  Woo hoo!!  Of course that meant the start was all uphill, no wonder it seemed so hard. Sigh. 

As usual as I came around the corner and saw the finish line and my afterburner kicked in.  Usually that is a good thing, this time, it was very challenging.  As I got closer to the line, my leg challenged me even more.  Luckily I had sunglasses on as I had tears running down my face.  Why I'm not completely sure, except that I was so full of emotion.  As I passed the line several very kind people helped me as my leg finally revolted.  I was able to continue standing but moving was hard and the streaming tears in the bitter cold was not helping. It was several minutes before I was able to decompress and move was more control. 

On the drive home I looked at the sole of my shoe and sure enough I had managed to wear a hole into the toe.  I only bought the shoes 2 months ago and they hadn't even made it 100 miles.  I guess new shoes are going on my Christmas list this year.

It has been a long but quick year.  I have managed to complete 15 races and one walk that we ran.  I have made some fabulous friends and even though I still don't love running, they have made it more than tolerable.  At the end of today's race I declared (yet again) I wouldn't do that again.  As I'm sure you have figured out by now, I will probably do it again and again.  Thank you to everyone who has inspired and motivated me, especially those of you I have had the pleasure to run with.  I would have never made it this far.  As of now the next race isn't scheduled until March, unfortunately the next torture session is scheduled for next Tuesday.

 

Breaktime

Last night was my last torture session for a week and a half as I’ll be tied up with work commitments.  To say I was excited about the prospect of a vacation from the Sadist is an understatement.  As he put me through my paces, he repeatedly told me I was already missing him.  HA! As the session progressed I would have gladly paid just about anything for him to go away. 
 

The Sadist had me doing squats, calf raises, shoulder presses and bicep curls as fast as I could for 10 reps, 5 sets holding a 30lb weighted bar.  I have to say I am proud that I did not fall over once.  I did get a bit tipsy, but managed to catch myself, though he caught me once or twice.  It was the bicep curls that were the biggest challenge (aside from my balance).  We did this with another set of exercises but with lighter weights and the addition of push-ups.  When I was 16 I sucked at push-ups, why would I want to do them when I’m 43?  I have no idea.  We ended the session with some killer abs exercises.  Apparently I didn’t whine enough as we had a good 15-20 minutes for abs.  Ugh!
 

If I were honest I know I’ll miss him along with bi-weekly torture sessions.  After a year and a half It has become so much a part of my weekly routine that it feel strange when I am not there.  This is not to say I particularly enjoy working out, I enjoy the challenge and the end results (after the muscles recover).  I almost must admit I do enjoy looking at his pretty face, which helps with the torture.
 

Speaking of torture, I ran the Gobble Cobble with the girls.  It was billed as a 7k, but I’m not sure that was really the case.  Regardless of the distance it was still a challenge.  I lost Maria and Terri during the 1st mile and had to motivate myself to continue.  I wanted to quit so many times especially when I started to get the sharp pain in my left calf.  At one point as I ran, I was talking to another runner.  I noted I was not a fan of running, yet somehow I ended up running races and had all the gear to go with it.  She just laughed and said she could relate.  If I wasn’t so stubborn, determined to meet a challenge and hold myself to a high standard I would have at least taken a shortcut or two but I just couldn’t do it.  Overall, I was happy with my final result and even managed to finish before the rest of the gang.  The added bonus, I didn't fall once running over the cobbles, came close, but didn't actually do it.

When I get back from my trip, I’ll be running the Celtic Solstice 5 miler.  While I’m gone I’m going to have to find some motivation to train for that.  I’m not sure it will be pretty unless I do.

Giving Thanks

I can not believe it is already Thanksgiving and the end of November.  Time really has been flying and doesn't seem to be slowing down any.  It seems like it was only yesterday when it was hot, humid and miserable.  Tomorrow I'll most likely be miserable freezing as I run the Cobble Gobble Turkey Trot.  Luckily it won't take too long and I'll be home and warm in no time. 

In keeping with the day of giving thanks, I thought I would come up with top ten list of what I was thankful for this year.  To make things a little more challenging, I figured I would try to focus it on fitness.  As I have written more than once, exercising and running are not my favorite things, but there has to be a silver lining somewhere.

I am thankful for...


The Smurf and Me.

• The wonderful friends I have made through running.
• Saturday and Sunday morning runs with those friends.
• Crossing the finish line still standing and somehow still breathing.
• Support of my family and friends in helping to ensure I exercise, even when I don't want to.
• My afterburners kicking in and passing Terri and sometimes even Maria at the finish line.
• Surviving all those torturous sessions with the Sadist.
• Getting to run the Color Run twice, once with my cadre of friends and the other with my niece, the Smurf.
• Getting more exercise by just going to work each day.  I actually don't mind the 1/2 mile walk to and from work, it's kind of invigorating.
• Even with an exacerbation this year, I am still going strong.  Who needs a PT when you have a Sadist who has made it his mission to strengthen the muscles affected by the exacerbation?

All in all I have lots to be thankful for and it has been a great year. I look forward to having a whole new list of things to be thankful for next year.  It will be interesting to see how they change or not change over another year.

I wish all my friends and family a very safe and Happy Thanksgiving.  I am thankful for each and everyone of you.  You have supported me through out this year and it has been appreciated more than you will ever know.

Happy Turkey Day!

Run Grumpy!

Twenty-four hours ago I was ready to throw in the towel.  The Sadist pushed all the wrong buttons last night and as we worked out, I felt everyone one of my 43 years and then some.  I did cardio strength training and for some reason I was not happy.  I came in happy, but I left irritated and ready to quit.  I called him every name I could think of, which was hard to do as I could barely catch my breath let alone think.  He had been on vacation for the week and returned all tan and relaxed.  I'm sure that did not help my mood.  It also didn't help that I was running in the Baltimore Running Festival today, so doing all those squats and presses was irritating. 

The hardest part was doing the box jumps.  I have told him time and time again that I couldn't jump.  I know that sounds strange, but I just can't get the legs to coordinate.  It completely frustrates me.  Yet another reason to put me in a bad mood.  I did manage to do three actual box jumps which took a lot of energy and concentration.  So I give myself a woo hoo for that.  The rest of the time I did step ups. As usual I managed to complete everything but refused to step on the scale.  It hasn't changed in months, no need to remind myself of that. 

I slept like crap last night, so after dealing with the Sadist and a bad night I was one grumpy person this morning.  According to the gang (I belong to a running gang, Tinkle Toes, who would have thunk it) I run better grumpy.  I hate to admit it, but I think they are right.  I had my best time (36.24) to date on a 5k.

The rest of the gang ran the 1/2 marathon so I was feeling a little left out.  Of course they told me not to, but I do anyway.  I am so proud of Team Tinkle Toes.  They did a fabulous job.  They worked hard and kicked some 1/2 marathon butt.  Go team!!  Maybe next year I'll be ready to join them.   

I'm glad I didn't throw in the towel.  I wouldn't have gotten my personal best and I wouldn't have seen the gang rock the 1/2.  I may run Grumpy, but that is just who I am and I continue to push forward even when I am grumbling and bitchy.  It's time to start preparing for the next run, whatever that may be.  :)

Back to Football 2013

Last night was the Back to Football 5k and I actually broke through that 3rd mile wall.  Okay, maybe I didn't send it crashing down, but I definitely made a huge dent and at a minimum a small opening.  It didn't look promising since the start of the race began with a hill. The hill wasn't huge, but it was a hill none the less. Somehow I managed to keep going even when I started to tire.  Every now and again, I would pace myself with someone a little faster just to push myself along.  I also kept looking over my shoulder because in the past, Maria would sneak pass me and finish before me, even though I had been ahead of her the entire time.  I was not letting this happen again.  I actually ran the majority of the race with some intervals, but not as many as usual.  I felt good when I finished with my best time of 36.31 (11.46 per mile).  I actually enjoyed it, well as much as I can enjoy running that is.  

The surprise of the night was that the ladies got to meet the Sadist.  Although I talk about him, up until now he has been a mystery. Maria said he didn't look very happy, but I think that is his normal look. Initially I wasn't going to say anything, but they badgered me.  At least now they have a face to put to the name. I'm not sure if that is good or not. Only time will tell. Good thing he doesn't read this blog though. I would hate for him to know I may actually be enjoying myself.

I have another race in a few weeks.  I'll be interested in seeing if I can at least finish at a comparable time (or better), I would hate to think this was a fluke.  Again, time will tell.

Summer Wrap-Up

Hanging in the visitors dugout after the race.

I can hardly believe we are in the last week of August.  Time seems to be flying these days. For me it has been an eventful season with changes and successes all around. 

Since March I have run a total of 10 races. Although, we are in what is generally the hottest part of summer, I completed my last race earlier this month.  Friends and I took on the Casey Cares 5k and although I didn't do my best time, I definitely had my best race.  I managed to scale the mile 3 wall, albeit slowly.  Oh, I was ready to quit, but the finish line was near home plate in Camden Yards and I wasn't going to miss it.  There was one point where I thought I was a goner.  We ran through a tunnel into the stadium which felt more like a furnace to get to the warning track.  As we were running through I could feel my vision start narrowing.  By sheer stubbornness I persevered and not only did I manage to avoid fainting, my afterburners kicked in and I sped to the finish line.  It also didn’t hurt that my favorite Oriole was a sponsor of the race.  I’m not sure I would have done it otherwise. 
In July, I was client of the month at my training studio.  As they were trying to take a photo the Sadist did his best to make me laugh and well, the resulting picture can be seen here.  I continue to work with him and it looks like we have become, dare I say it, friends.  Though today, I was questioning that.  He was rather sweet and kept things a little low key after my bout with bronchitis.  This has come to an end apparently.  At one time squats were my nemesis, nowadays it is lunges.  Just when I think my balance is getting better we do lunges.  Ugh!  I did manage to do all the exercises, which instead of worrying about reps we did it for time.  Aside from the lunges, I had issues with the push-ups and the dips.  I just don't do dips, again this is something we do not agree on.

The fall I won’t be sitting around. I have several races scheduled, with at least one each month including December.  The first race to come around will be to welcome in the NFL season and instead of ending at home plate, I’ll be at the 50 yard line.  Not a bad way to start the next season.

Got Drenched?

Ready to get drenched?

Today was the Drenched 5k.  Although it wasn't exactly what I thought it would be, we had an amazing time.   The course was a muddy and grassy trail.  I definitely haven't been practicing on that.  Add to that it went up and down and you had to keep an eye out for rocks and tree roots.   Even with all of that, it was fun going through the foam and being pelted with water from big hoses.  The best part was the slip and slide.  At first I wasn't going to do it, but it looked like too much fun and it was.  Apparently someone got a video of us, so I am looking forward to seeing it.

Maria & me

Thankfully the Sadist didn't have me work out my legs too much yesterday but they were worked out.  I am feeling the pain in my arms though.  This time we worked out in tandem.  While one was doing an exercise the other held a pose (i.e. squat) for the duration of the exercise. Generally this is a good deal since I'm not working out while he lounges around ,however there is only one problem.  He always looks so much better working out then I do.  I have to say he has very nice biceps, legs, chest and butt.  Okay, he just looks good all over, but that isn't the problem.  It is that he much smoother than I am while doing the exercises. I feel like a bull in a china shop.  I'm so much more of a klutz and even in exercising I'm all wobbly and manage to trip over my own two feet. There are several things I am no longer allowed to touch because I've either dropped, tripped, or ran into them.  They probably should pad that place for me.  Anyway, I was pretty good at holding the poses as that required not moving.  I'm never going to be graceful, but at least I'll be a strong bull in the china shop.

I started my new job in DC and thanks to that I have been logging a lot of steps.  In my old job, I was lucky if I got 3 to 4k by end of the work day.  I'm now logging in over 10k a day and that's before I get home.  Add to that I've cut down on my soda consumption and lo' and behold I've actually managed to lose some weight, though someone put his foot on the scale so it looked like I gained 100lbs.  I told you he was sadistic.

A Year Later

Believe it or not it has been a year since I started on this journey.  It's amazing how much things can change in such a short time.  I've been chronicling my challenges and successes and honestly I'm both surprised and proud of all I have accomplished. I'm glad I've been keeping track or otherwise I may not have believed it myself. 

As I've stated before, the changes aren't just physical, though they are definitely noticeable.   I've also been able to build some much needed confidence.  Along with the changes in appearance I have also changed my direction in life.  I am extremely happy to say I am finally making the move to further my career in instructional design.  This has been a long time coming and had I not been working on me, I may never have realized it.  Like I said, a lot can change in a year. 

As I start into the next year, I will continue to push forward.  I've had someone pushing me to do a half marathon and maybe one day I will, but right now my goal is to take down that 3rd mile wall.  If I get bored with the 5ks then I'll consider going further, but for now 5ks are enough. That person, who shall remain nameless, may be interested in knowing that the Sadist was all for the half marathon.  Maybe those two can run it and I'll cheer them on.

My next challenge is just to continue.  With the new job, my time is going to be at a premium as I commute between Baltimore and DC.  Somehow, I'll make it work, besides how could I miss giving the Sadist such a hard time (or is it the other way around).  I think he would miss me, even if he didn't admit it.  I'm pretty sure I would miss him, pretty sure.

Here is to another year of progress!  Cheers! 

BWC 2012

Sunrise at Lake Montebello

It's been a while since my last race as well as my last post.  Today was the Baltimore Women's Classic and for the first time I actually trained for a race. Ok, trained may be a little strong of a word, but I did prepare.  Each weekend since the Color Run I met up with the girls at Lake Montebello to do at least 2 if not 3 laps around the lake.  One lap is 1.3 miles and therefore it is easy to actually complete 4 miles, which is what we did most weekends.  By the time we finally made it to the race today, I was able to run a full mile without stopping,and then intervals for another.  The problem is the last 2 miles and luckily a 5k is only 3.1 miles. So  my main issue is that last mile.  I can sprint the last tenth of a mile, but it is between miles 2 and 3 that I come apart.  I hit the proverbial brick wall and my body does not want to go forward.  

Although I hit that wall, I did manage to bring in my best time yet.  I completed it in 37:23 with a 12.02 pace.  Just when I thought the wall was going to win, I met a lovely lady who encouraged me and ran with me the rest of the way.  I can't thank her enough as that wall was winning the battle.  Somehow, I'm going to have to beat that wall back.  My next timed race isn't for a while, so I have plenty of time to work on it.  

I'm coming up on my 1 year anniversary with the Sadist.  If you had asked me a year ago, what I would be doing this summer, running would not have been on the list.  In fact that word wouldn't have been in my vocabulary. It's amazing how things can change in just a year.  I'm still not crazy about running, but I do enjoy the challenge.  Since I've hit my 1 year anniversary, I'm guessing it is time for an update.    I've definitely seen a difference both physically and mentally and it has definitely been for the best.  Now if only I could break that stupid wall. 

Beware of the Lifesaver!

Two weeks ago I put on a nice and clean brand new white t-shirt.  Decked out in my bright white splendor I headed down to Oriole Park and Raven's Stadium to meet up with the gang for Baltimore's first running of The Color Run - The Happiest Run on Earth. They have it well named, because it was a blast.  I actually ran most of the race with just a short walking stint between Blue and Orange and we also walked through the color zones.  In order to get a good amount of color you need to slow down and let the color come down.  Twirling is very helpful.  It was the most fun I ever had with running. In fact I almost liked running, almost. 

Now I'm back to the grind of working out and it isn't as fun as the run.  The Sadist is continuing to push me and refuses to listen to me when I say I can't do something.  I was reminded that I don't pay for him to listen to me, which is a good thing because he really sucks at it.  Every now and again it would be nice if he did listen even for a moment.  

I should remember that if the Sadist gives me a lifesaver as I walk in the door, I should just turn around and walk out.  It is not going to be a pleasant workout.  Since I finally mastered my squats he felt it was necessary to up the ante and have me squat down past parallel and then back up.  The coming up was easy, it was the squatting down I had trouble with.  This type of squatting reminds me of geometry. I've not had to use geometry and I don't see me having to squat down that far.  If I'm going to be down that far I might as well just sit on my butt. 

The rest of the workout was pretty benign with me doing arm and leg presses, rows and deadlifts until we got to planks.  As we all know, planks and I are not on good terms.  Today's challenge was to do the plank while having my arms on one half ball and my feet on the another half ball.  Any redemption that he may earned after the squats was gone.  My utter dislike for him returned full force.  Hopefully by Friday, I'll be back to tolerating him, but right now that's not happening.

Over Achiever

I had a very long but productive weekend.  Earlier in the week, Maria talked me into running the ALS Fiesta 5k on Saturday.  There were only three of us running that day and luckily I gave the Sadist a heads up.  Had there been no heads up, I'm not sure I would have completed the run.  As it is now, I'm not quite sure how I did complete it, though I know Maria and Terri were a big part of it. 

By the 3rd mile my leg was not happy.  My foot did not want to pick up and I really hate tripping.  Running with a foot drop can be rather annoying.  When I am not tired I can usually work around the issue, but when I am tired it's a whole different story.  To make a long story short, I hiked up my hip to keep me from tripping which resulted in a sore gluteus maximus.  If you have never had a muscle knot in your butt, you don't know what you are missing. It definitely makes sitting interesting. We  finished the run in our best time yet, knots and all.  I finished in 38.59.  Woo hoo!!

Now anyone with common sense would have called it a weekend when it came to races.  Apparently I am lacking some common sense because I let the ladies talk me into running the Port to Fort 6k on the next day.    

Bright and early Sunday morning I was up and out the door for my second race in as many days.  I was determined not to try and race against my time from the day before.  I ran hard the day before and I didn't need to overdo it, plus there was an extra 3/4 mile and my legs don't like it after about 2 3/4 miles. 

It a pleasant run with some hills, but not too bad.  It was nice to run around the fort though there was a head wind, so that made it a little challenging.  All in all I am pleased with my run as I came in under 50 min.  At the 3 mile mark I was around where I was the day before, so if we were done then I would have been good.  I may have been slower, but I felt better.  My first stop after my sprint to the finish line was the oranges.  For some reason when I complete a race all I want is oranges.  Yum!  

The first couple of days after the races I was beyond tired and my left calf was not a happy muscle.  I spent a lot of time massaging out the knots that don't get worked out due to normal use.  The foot drop does provide some challenges but I'm pretty stubborn myself. 

The next race is May 11 and we'll be doing the Color Run.  This one is purely for fun and I can't wait to see what I look like afterwards.