This was a rough time for me to try to fit in a 5k. Sick husband, sick toddler, ugh. We didn't want the baby to catch the bug, so I haven't been able to pass him off to D and run outside. The first time I wanted to run a 5k at the gym, there were no treadmills available where I had room to park baby J's stroller next to me. So, I just pushed him in the stroller while walking around the track.
Do you like my litany of excuses? Wait, I've got more!... =)
So, my last chance was last Wednesday, and both boys had gotten up multiple times during the night. I was on zombie mode - excuses, excuses I know, but it was rough! I can't say that I really "raced" it, but I did it at least. I covered the 5k distance in about 34 minutes. Slower than I would have liked, but hopefully we are all on the up and up and I can get more running in outside! Hopefully our house is done with this bug!
How was your 5 by the 5th?
Showing posts with label Running. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Running. Show all posts
Monday, March 9, 2015
Wednesday, February 4, 2015
5k By the 5th
Good morning!
I ran my first 5k for Laura's 5 by the 5th this weekend. Whew, am I out of shape! It took me 28:33, so that's the time I'm going to work hard to improve upon over the next few months, using the workouts in the link above as my guide.
I also did a short, two mile stroller run this weekend, and that was even harder! Got to get used to running, and running and pushing the stroller again. Even though it was tough and I was panting like crazy, it was great to be out there.
How is your running going? Tell me about it!
I ran my first 5k for Laura's 5 by the 5th this weekend. Whew, am I out of shape! It took me 28:33, so that's the time I'm going to work hard to improve upon over the next few months, using the workouts in the link above as my guide.
I also did a short, two mile stroller run this weekend, and that was even harder! Got to get used to running, and running and pushing the stroller again. Even though it was tough and I was panting like crazy, it was great to be out there.
How is your running going? Tell me about it!
Sunday, February 1, 2015
Fitness & Newborn Adoption
I made it back to our gym a couple of weeks ago for my first return to "exercise"! Before we brought J home, I thought I might be able to just bring J to the gym and park him next to my treadmill while I ran, as soon as we got home. Without missing a beat! It's not like I needed any physical recovery time like a biological mom! But haha -- we were pretty exhausted that first week from no sleep the night before we met him, no sleep in the hospital and still trying to figure out our new schedule. Add to that M's recent fever/cold bug, followed up by (successful!) potty training, and we've been stuck at home and inside longer than I thought.
In any case, all I did my first time back at the gym was walk a mile on the track while wearing baby J in my wrap, but I figured that was a start and better than nothing.
When D's parents were here, I went out for a few very short stroller runs with M to get him outside for a bit in the fresh (cold) air while they watched baby J. I'm thinking that for the next month, I'll try to get to our gym 2-3 days/week and either walk on the track or try out the variety of machines there.
As I was walking today, I noticed all of the different machines that I never use - the rowing machine, cycling, stair climber, etc. I think this season of life will be a good chance for me to try out a variety of machines and maybe also do some more lifting too?
I also signed up to participate in Laura's "5 by the 5th" virtual challenge. I'm planning to do 5Ks, and hopefully work on developing a faster pace. I'll probably be doing these runs as a mix of treadmill runs and outdoor runs if I can get them in on the weekends while baby is napping and my husband is playing with M. Or I'll just bring him with me in the stroller! I also have a barre DVD that I have yet to try, so one of these days I will choose to do that rather than nap while the boys are napping, haha! So hopefully this season of fitness will be one of enjoying my precious boys and mixing up my fitness.
Are you trying anything new, fitness-wise, this year?
In any case, all I did my first time back at the gym was walk a mile on the track while wearing baby J in my wrap, but I figured that was a start and better than nothing.
When D's parents were here, I went out for a few very short stroller runs with M to get him outside for a bit in the fresh (cold) air while they watched baby J. I'm thinking that for the next month, I'll try to get to our gym 2-3 days/week and either walk on the track or try out the variety of machines there.
 |
| Big Brother pushing Little Brother out of the gym! |
I also signed up to participate in Laura's "5 by the 5th" virtual challenge. I'm planning to do 5Ks, and hopefully work on developing a faster pace. I'll probably be doing these runs as a mix of treadmill runs and outdoor runs if I can get them in on the weekends while baby is napping and my husband is playing with M. Or I'll just bring him with me in the stroller! I also have a barre DVD that I have yet to try, so one of these days I will choose to do that rather than nap while the boys are napping, haha! So hopefully this season of fitness will be one of enjoying my precious boys and mixing up my fitness.
Are you trying anything new, fitness-wise, this year?
Saturday, December 27, 2014
My Year of Running 2014
Here is a quick recap of my year of running, with thanks to Miss Zippy for the inspiration!
Best Race Experience
I didn't run very many races this year, but I had a lot of fun at the Sandpoint Scenic 5k, because my sister was there and ran the race too. I enjoyed pushing myself by running as hard as I could at a shorter distance. I am thinking about making 2015 the year of the 5k. =) Or some other shorter distance maybe.
Best Run
I love my stroller runs with M. It makes me so happy when he asks to go running. I would be so happy if he developed a love for running too! Now, I'm just going to need a double stroller for next summer, hopefully!
Best New Piece of Gear
My mom got me a running skirt for my birthday. I love it. It is really cute but completely functional too! I lover wearing it on on all of our summer bike rides and other adventures too.
Best Piece of Running Advice Received
My husband is always telling me to run harder for shorter periods of time and to do fartlek-type workouts. He's right. When I do these types of runs, I can feel my easy run paces and long run paces getting faster. It especially fun and challenging to do these types of runs while pushing the stroller too!
Most Inspirational Runner
I'm thinking Louis Zamperini. I read Unbroken a couple of years ago and loved it. America lost a good man when he died this summer.
If you could sum up your year in a couple of words, what would they be?
Fun and flexible. I didn't hit all of my running goals for the year, so I re-calibrated my expectations. As a result, I enjoyed the races that I did do, and relished all of my runs and time spent outside this year. I'm lucky to be able to run and to have the time to exercise. It is a gift, I don't take it for granted and I hope I can be an example to my sons of a positive lifestyle.
I'll be spending the next few days thinking about my fitness (and other) goals for 2015, and hope to share them with you soon!
Best Race Experience
I didn't run very many races this year, but I had a lot of fun at the Sandpoint Scenic 5k, because my sister was there and ran the race too. I enjoyed pushing myself by running as hard as I could at a shorter distance. I am thinking about making 2015 the year of the 5k. =) Or some other shorter distance maybe.
Best Run
I love my stroller runs with M. It makes me so happy when he asks to go running. I would be so happy if he developed a love for running too! Now, I'm just going to need a double stroller for next summer, hopefully!
Best New Piece of Gear
My mom got me a running skirt for my birthday. I love it. It is really cute but completely functional too! I lover wearing it on on all of our summer bike rides and other adventures too.
Best Piece of Running Advice Received
My husband is always telling me to run harder for shorter periods of time and to do fartlek-type workouts. He's right. When I do these types of runs, I can feel my easy run paces and long run paces getting faster. It especially fun and challenging to do these types of runs while pushing the stroller too!
Most Inspirational Runner
I'm thinking Louis Zamperini. I read Unbroken a couple of years ago and loved it. America lost a good man when he died this summer.
If you could sum up your year in a couple of words, what would they be?
Fun and flexible. I didn't hit all of my running goals for the year, so I re-calibrated my expectations. As a result, I enjoyed the races that I did do, and relished all of my runs and time spent outside this year. I'm lucky to be able to run and to have the time to exercise. It is a gift, I don't take it for granted and I hope I can be an example to my sons of a positive lifestyle.
I'll be spending the next few days thinking about my fitness (and other) goals for 2015, and hope to share them with you soon!
Happy running in 2015!
Tuesday, November 11, 2014
A Run "Through Munich"
It's 27 degrees outside today and so windy that I think our house is starting to lean. ;) Not the best day for a stroller run!
So we went to the Kroc Center instead. I tried out a new-to-me treadmill that took me on a run through Munich! And Auckland, NZ - where else can you say that you did THAT in the same day?!
This was the first time that I've tried out one of the treadmills where you can select a course and run through the streets. It was a Life Fitness treadmill (I think) and little facts about the city popped up as I ran along. The only downside is that it will occasionally just switch you from one scene to another, so you aren't really getting the full experience of pretending to run along the course.
I tried to take a picture of my view in Munich, but it came out like this:
I guess it's a little blurry? =) Anyway, this new feature made my run so enjoyable! I typically dislike the treadmill, but this may help me keep running more on these cold (breezy!) winter days.
Stay warm!
 |
| Enjoying our first snow of the season! |
So we went to the Kroc Center instead. I tried out a new-to-me treadmill that took me on a run through Munich! And Auckland, NZ - where else can you say that you did THAT in the same day?!
This was the first time that I've tried out one of the treadmills where you can select a course and run through the streets. It was a Life Fitness treadmill (I think) and little facts about the city popped up as I ran along. The only downside is that it will occasionally just switch you from one scene to another, so you aren't really getting the full experience of pretending to run along the course.
I tried to take a picture of my view in Munich, but it came out like this:
Stay warm!
Monday, September 29, 2014
Scenic Sandpoint - 5k Fabulous
A few days before my planned half marathon (Scenic Sandpoint), I was stressing about the race and feeling under-trained and over-tired. My cool-headed husband says, "why don't you just run the 5K?" I fretted - won't you think I'm giving up? But I signed up for the half and I have to follow through!? He tells me it's no big deal (true) and that he'd rather see me push myself hard in a shorter distance since we both know that I can plod along through a half marathon and cover that distance (also true, and I laughed, envisioning myself plodding along!)
So, that is what I did, and I am SO GLAD!
It was really fun to race the 5k, and it was also comedic. My sister was also running the 5k, and we thought it was scheduled to start at 9 am. So, after watching the halfers start, and then seeing the 10k folks line up around 8:40, I casually walked over to use the bathroom. On my walk back (around 8:45am) I hear the announcer saying that the 5k will be starting in 1 minute (?!). So I see my husband, and quickly try to hand him my vest and long-sleeve shirt and explain to him that the race is starting, and my mom runs over asking if I've seen my sister (and I hadn't!). Thankfully, my sister runs up as the announcer says "20 seconds to start" and we frantically try to pin her race number on her shirt. As the race starts, I am facing the wrong direction, finishing pinning on her number and we both start running, nearly trip each other, and thankfully manage to run the rest of the race smoothly.
I just kind of took off at a pace that felt hard but manageable for the distance. There were no mile markers, but I had my Garmin so I could track my pace. It was a small race and out and back, so I counted the number of women ahead of me as they turned around. Less than 10! I think my miles got progressively slower, and my chest was feeling tight as I came through the final turn to the finish. I got totally humbled though when this 12 year old girl sprinted past me to finish just under 25 minutes, I finished in 25:04. I had to laugh because she reminded me of my 12 year old self, since that's when I started running 5k road races and loving it!
I still hope to run the half marathon another day, this just wasn't my day. It was a beautiful morning for running, and the process of switching races was very smooth. We had a delicious (peppery - as in, the bacon was covered in pepper) breakfast at Trinity, right next to the finish line, so we got to see my friend finish her first ever half marathon!
All in all, it was a fun day. We originally intended to participate in this race with my mom and my other sister too, but my sister couldn't make the trip out to Idaho. =( Hopefully, we will get her out here for another race soon!
Who ran the Scenic Sandpoint Half Marathon? What did you think? Tell me about it!
So, that is what I did, and I am SO GLAD!
 |
| Half Marathon start |
It was really fun to race the 5k, and it was also comedic. My sister was also running the 5k, and we thought it was scheduled to start at 9 am. So, after watching the halfers start, and then seeing the 10k folks line up around 8:40, I casually walked over to use the bathroom. On my walk back (around 8:45am) I hear the announcer saying that the 5k will be starting in 1 minute (?!). So I see my husband, and quickly try to hand him my vest and long-sleeve shirt and explain to him that the race is starting, and my mom runs over asking if I've seen my sister (and I hadn't!). Thankfully, my sister runs up as the announcer says "20 seconds to start" and we frantically try to pin her race number on her shirt. As the race starts, I am facing the wrong direction, finishing pinning on her number and we both start running, nearly trip each other, and thankfully manage to run the rest of the race smoothly.
 |
| See me in pink and my sister next to me in the sunglasses? |
I just kind of took off at a pace that felt hard but manageable for the distance. There were no mile markers, but I had my Garmin so I could track my pace. It was a small race and out and back, so I counted the number of women ahead of me as they turned around. Less than 10! I think my miles got progressively slower, and my chest was feeling tight as I came through the final turn to the finish. I got totally humbled though when this 12 year old girl sprinted past me to finish just under 25 minutes, I finished in 25:04. I had to laugh because she reminded me of my 12 year old self, since that's when I started running 5k road races and loving it!
I still hope to run the half marathon another day, this just wasn't my day. It was a beautiful morning for running, and the process of switching races was very smooth. We had a delicious (peppery - as in, the bacon was covered in pepper) breakfast at Trinity, right next to the finish line, so we got to see my friend finish her first ever half marathon!
All in all, it was a fun day. We originally intended to participate in this race with my mom and my other sister too, but my sister couldn't make the trip out to Idaho. =( Hopefully, we will get her out here for another race soon!
 |
| He was cheering "Go Ms. L" for my friend, finishing her 5k race! He was such an enthusiastic fan! |
Saturday, September 13, 2014
Running Lately
The Scenic Half Marathon is one week away, and I think I am a little bit burned out, running-wise.
My longest long run this training cycle was 10 miles, about two weeks ago. That run felt so hard! I was just exhausted afterwards, and usually I feel really rejuvenated by having a nice, long run on a weekend morning. Then last weekend, I didn't run long at all. I ran Monday for a 30 minute stroller run. It went fine, but was nothing special. Wednesday I did a tempo run, which felt good, but was still only about 30 minutes total. D thinks (and I now agree) that my long runs have been disproportionate to my total weekly mileage. I haven't been getting enough mileage in during the rest of the week (cutting too many runs too short!), so my fitness hasn't really been improving as my long runs have been getting longer.
Today I did a little over five miles. It felt fine, but over all I know this race is not going to be an easy one!
I am looking forward to getting through the race, and then maybe focusing on running more days, and working more on strength training too to try to build up some strength. So those are my thoughts on running, lately! Wish me luck next weekend!
My longest long run this training cycle was 10 miles, about two weeks ago. That run felt so hard! I was just exhausted afterwards, and usually I feel really rejuvenated by having a nice, long run on a weekend morning. Then last weekend, I didn't run long at all. I ran Monday for a 30 minute stroller run. It went fine, but was nothing special. Wednesday I did a tempo run, which felt good, but was still only about 30 minutes total. D thinks (and I now agree) that my long runs have been disproportionate to my total weekly mileage. I haven't been getting enough mileage in during the rest of the week (cutting too many runs too short!), so my fitness hasn't really been improving as my long runs have been getting longer.
Today I did a little over five miles. It felt fine, but over all I know this race is not going to be an easy one!
I am looking forward to getting through the race, and then maybe focusing on running more days, and working more on strength training too to try to build up some strength. So those are my thoughts on running, lately! Wish me luck next weekend!
 |
| The pic doesn't capture it, but the leaves are starting to change! |
Monday, August 4, 2014
Our Weekend
Hi Friends!
How was your weekend? Ours was really nice. We had all *intentions* to go camping again. Friday evening rolled around, and since we still hadn't packed, we just couldn't get it all together and out the door.
It turned into a lazy weekend instead - and sometimes you just need those too! We definitely did!
I got a 6 mile run in early in the morning. My training plan for Sandpoint's Scenic Half Marathon has had me running increasingly longer long runs each weekend. But this weekend the schedule instructed me to dial it back distance wise and try to run at "race pace."
I used the Mcmillan calculator to try to estimate mile "race pace" for a 1:57 - 1:58 half marathon. In 2013 and 2011, I ran 1:58 in two different half marathons (in 2011, the Shamrock in Virginia Beach, and in 2013, the CDA Half Marathon). Ten years ago, I ran 1:54 in a half marathon in Florida, so that is technically my PR, but since I really didn't run consistently between 2007 and 2011, I count the 1:58 races as my "modern PR." Of course, I'd love to get back down to that 1:54!
My course for my 6 miles this weekend was downhill for the first 3 miles, and then uphill for the last 3. I was right on pace for the first 2 miles, then I had to take a quick pit stop. I lost some momentum doing this, and then I definitely slowed down even more on the way back (uphill). Oh well! I am overall pleased with the workout, and looking forward to trying it again after a few more long runs and tempo workouts (during the week) to work on speed.
In other news, we cooked Pioneer Woman's "Eggs-in-a-Hole" which were delicious, did some painting at Art on the Green, and enjoyed some beach time.
We also had our second ever "family movie night" to watch the second half of "Cars." Our truck-obsessed toddler was, literally, on the edge of his seat. It was adorable! And the movie is pretty cute too.
How was your weekend? Are there any good movies out now? Do I sound like I live under a rock?
I hope you have a fantastic week!
How was your weekend? Ours was really nice. We had all *intentions* to go camping again. Friday evening rolled around, and since we still hadn't packed, we just couldn't get it all together and out the door.
It turned into a lazy weekend instead - and sometimes you just need those too! We definitely did!
I got a 6 mile run in early in the morning. My training plan for Sandpoint's Scenic Half Marathon has had me running increasingly longer long runs each weekend. But this weekend the schedule instructed me to dial it back distance wise and try to run at "race pace."
I used the Mcmillan calculator to try to estimate mile "race pace" for a 1:57 - 1:58 half marathon. In 2013 and 2011, I ran 1:58 in two different half marathons (in 2011, the Shamrock in Virginia Beach, and in 2013, the CDA Half Marathon). Ten years ago, I ran 1:54 in a half marathon in Florida, so that is technically my PR, but since I really didn't run consistently between 2007 and 2011, I count the 1:58 races as my "modern PR." Of course, I'd love to get back down to that 1:54!
My course for my 6 miles this weekend was downhill for the first 3 miles, and then uphill for the last 3. I was right on pace for the first 2 miles, then I had to take a quick pit stop. I lost some momentum doing this, and then I definitely slowed down even more on the way back (uphill). Oh well! I am overall pleased with the workout, and looking forward to trying it again after a few more long runs and tempo workouts (during the week) to work on speed.
Mile Splits:
1:9:01
2: 8:50
3:9:16
4:9:45
5: 10:00
6: 9:31
In other news, we cooked Pioneer Woman's "Eggs-in-a-Hole" which were delicious, did some painting at Art on the Green, and enjoyed some beach time.
 |
| My little Picasso. That is, until he turned to me and said "I paint on you now." Um, no thank you, dear. |
How was your weekend? Are there any good movies out now? Do I sound like I live under a rock?
I hope you have a fantastic week!
Tuesday, July 8, 2014
Work It Out #2
Last week's training for Sandpoint's Scenic Half Marathon:
Monday: Easy 4 mile stroller walk/jog - 5 min walk warmup, then ran around the neighborhood, then 3 min walk cooldown. Followed up with some playground time for my stroller companion!
Tuesday: 1 hour strength class. I love this class! It wears me out!
Wednesday: Easy 40 minute walk/jog in the late afternoon when D came home. It was warm, and then a biker rode by me and said, "you think it's hot enough out?" which then made me panic that maybe I should have brought my phone, it was too hot to be running hard, I was going to bonk at the furthest point away from my house, etc. So I just kept it at a slow, easy pace. Isn't it crazy that I just let some little offhand comment affect my run like that? In any case, this run went a lot better than last Wednesday's run.
Thursday: no time to workout - unplanned rest day
Friday: About 3 miles of hiking in the mountains
Saturday: 1.23 miles of hiking along Priest Lake
Sunday: Rest day
My training plan called for 9 miles on Saturday. There was no way that I was going to run by myself up on that mountain, so I am not going to worry about missing that run! =) It happens. I'm planning to do it for my long run this weekend instead. But I know that if I am going to PR in Sandpoint, I really need to pick up the pace on my weekday runs and make them more effective!
Happy running!
Monday: Easy 4 mile stroller walk/jog - 5 min walk warmup, then ran around the neighborhood, then 3 min walk cooldown. Followed up with some playground time for my stroller companion!
 |
| Stop the paparazzi! |
Wednesday: Easy 40 minute walk/jog in the late afternoon when D came home. It was warm, and then a biker rode by me and said, "you think it's hot enough out?" which then made me panic that maybe I should have brought my phone, it was too hot to be running hard, I was going to bonk at the furthest point away from my house, etc. So I just kept it at a slow, easy pace. Isn't it crazy that I just let some little offhand comment affect my run like that? In any case, this run went a lot better than last Wednesday's run.
 |
| One of our gorgeous running/biking paths! |
Friday: About 3 miles of hiking in the mountains
Saturday: 1.23 miles of hiking along Priest Lake
Sunday: Rest day
My training plan called for 9 miles on Saturday. There was no way that I was going to run by myself up on that mountain, so I am not going to worry about missing that run! =) It happens. I'm planning to do it for my long run this weekend instead. But I know that if I am going to PR in Sandpoint, I really need to pick up the pace on my weekday runs and make them more effective!
Happy running!
Sunday, June 29, 2014
Work It Out
Since I'm going to do the Scenic Half Marathon in September, I thought I'd start sharing my workouts for the past week. Hopefully this will help me to stick to the training plan!
Here's what went down last week:
M) 20 min stroller run + 15 min walk. I was feeling exhausted, so this run turned into a walk!
T) 1 hour strength class
W) 25 min easy run + 25 min walking. Exhausted again, that strength class really took it out of me, plus we were all sleeping poorly.
Th) 45 min bike ride with the trailer
F) Rest day!
Sat) 10 mile family bike ride
Sun) 6 mile run (Training plan called for 8, but I ran out of time.) Followed up with a 2 mile hike later in the morning.
Here's what went down last week:
M) 20 min stroller run + 15 min walk. I was feeling exhausted, so this run turned into a walk!
T) 1 hour strength class
W) 25 min easy run + 25 min walking. Exhausted again, that strength class really took it out of me, plus we were all sleeping poorly.
Th) 45 min bike ride with the trailer
F) Rest day!
Sat) 10 mile family bike ride
Sun) 6 mile run (Training plan called for 8, but I ran out of time.) Followed up with a 2 mile hike later in the morning.
Friday, May 30, 2014
CDA Half Marathon: I Survived! (Race Recap)
I ran/walked the CDA Half Marathon Sunday morning.
This was my second year running this race. The course was entirely different this year: still some hills but very shady and beautiful. I thought it was a great course.
The race benefits the Centennial Trail Foundation, so it makes sense to have the course feature some of the most beautiful stretches of the Centennial Trail.
I woke up at 5 for the 7:30 start. Last weekend before my trail run, I felt like I didn't have enough to eat and had too much water before the race. This time I got it right: I had 1/2 a bagel, banana and half a cup of coffee. I also sipped some water occasionally up until about 15 minutes before the race started. I drove downtown around 6 because I wasn't sure how tough it would be to park. Needless to say, I got a spot 1 block away from the start, whoop whoop! #winning I walked down to try to exchange my shirt at late packet pick up in the resort, but they were only doing exchanges after the race. I tried to use the bathroom in the resort across the hall from packet pick up and they had locked the doors!! Boo on you, CDA Resort! #notrunnerfriendly.
Marathoners started at 7 am and Halfers started at 7:30. It was nice and cool, in the low 50s for the start. There was an adorable kid playing his guitar and singing just around the corner from the start - he was rocking out!
I planned to take walk breaks every 5 minutes so I wouldn't completely bonk. I ran the first 2 miles and then started my 30 sec walk breaks. I didn't end up doing this exactly every 5 minutes because I walked thru a few of the water stations and didn't walk any downhills. I didn't take my gel until 1 hour in, which might have been a little too late because I started to feel pretty pooped around miles 7-8, and I think those may have been my slowest miles.
I chatted with a really nice woman around mile 10 - she was from Naples, FL! She had the prettiest southern accent and we traded stories about the Sunshine State. We parted ways at a water stop, but she totally zoomed by me shortly before the finish line.
My time was 15 minutes slower than last year. Yikes! That's a lot, but that is what I get for not getting the long runs and workouts in. I have been running a couple of days a week, but just jogging along for 2-4 miles is not the path to improvement. I am still glad that I did it and glad to have finished healthy. Here's to a great start to summer.
In Brief:
Expo: small, packet pick up is a breeze, shirts are good
Half Mary: About 900 runners/walkers, out & back course (marathoners do 2 laps, so you get to see them run by), some teeny hills, 1 moderate hill, shady with good crowd support, except for coming up out of Sanders beach - where was everyone??!!
Post-race: line for water (wish they had bottles, or some prepped!) was kind of long, bananas, bagels, oranges, cookies, beer garden (but we didn't stick around for it), cool medals (much better than last year)
This was my second year running this race. The course was entirely different this year: still some hills but very shady and beautiful. I thought it was a great course.
The race benefits the Centennial Trail Foundation, so it makes sense to have the course feature some of the most beautiful stretches of the Centennial Trail.
I woke up at 5 for the 7:30 start. Last weekend before my trail run, I felt like I didn't have enough to eat and had too much water before the race. This time I got it right: I had 1/2 a bagel, banana and half a cup of coffee. I also sipped some water occasionally up until about 15 minutes before the race started. I drove downtown around 6 because I wasn't sure how tough it would be to park. Needless to say, I got a spot 1 block away from the start, whoop whoop! #winning I walked down to try to exchange my shirt at late packet pick up in the resort, but they were only doing exchanges after the race. I tried to use the bathroom in the resort across the hall from packet pick up and they had locked the doors!! Boo on you, CDA Resort! #notrunnerfriendly.
Marathoners started at 7 am and Halfers started at 7:30. It was nice and cool, in the low 50s for the start. There was an adorable kid playing his guitar and singing just around the corner from the start - he was rocking out!
I planned to take walk breaks every 5 minutes so I wouldn't completely bonk. I ran the first 2 miles and then started my 30 sec walk breaks. I didn't end up doing this exactly every 5 minutes because I walked thru a few of the water stations and didn't walk any downhills. I didn't take my gel until 1 hour in, which might have been a little too late because I started to feel pretty pooped around miles 7-8, and I think those may have been my slowest miles.
I chatted with a really nice woman around mile 10 - she was from Naples, FL! She had the prettiest southern accent and we traded stories about the Sunshine State. We parted ways at a water stop, but she totally zoomed by me shortly before the finish line.
My time was 15 minutes slower than last year. Yikes! That's a lot, but that is what I get for not getting the long runs and workouts in. I have been running a couple of days a week, but just jogging along for 2-4 miles is not the path to improvement. I am still glad that I did it and glad to have finished healthy. Here's to a great start to summer.
In Brief:
Expo: small, packet pick up is a breeze, shirts are good
Half Mary: About 900 runners/walkers, out & back course (marathoners do 2 laps, so you get to see them run by), some teeny hills, 1 moderate hill, shady with good crowd support, except for coming up out of Sanders beach - where was everyone??!!
Post-race: line for water (wish they had bottles, or some prepped!) was kind of long, bananas, bagels, oranges, cookies, beer garden (but we didn't stick around for it), cool medals (much better than last year)
Friday, May 9, 2014
Half Marathon "Training"
"Training" is in quotes because I'm not sure you can really call it that!
I'll be running the CDA Half Marathon on May 25. My longest training run to date has been 7.75 miles, so not really where I should be to hope to PR. I have been running roughly three times a week, and also trying to take a weight class and swim one day a week. But neither my distance nor intensity has really been up to par. I am going to be reasonable and aim to just finish and enjoy myself. But my husband says I have to beat his old boss, gulp!
I am also planning to run a 5 mile trail race on May 17, part of the State Park Series organized by Trail Maniacs. I'm really excited for this! My last trail race was a lot of fun, and Farragut State Park is gorgeous. Hopefully we'll do some extra exploring as a family afterwards.
Then I think I probably won't do a race again until September/October. We will be traveling off and on so I am just hoping to build consistency and speed and to enjoy our beautiful summer by spending as much time outdoors as possible.
What are your summer plans, running and otherwise?
I'll be running the CDA Half Marathon on May 25. My longest training run to date has been 7.75 miles, so not really where I should be to hope to PR. I have been running roughly three times a week, and also trying to take a weight class and swim one day a week. But neither my distance nor intensity has really been up to par. I am going to be reasonable and aim to just finish and enjoy myself. But my husband says I have to beat his old boss, gulp!
 |
| Part of the course for this year's CDA Half Marathon (and the Marathon) |
I am also planning to run a 5 mile trail race on May 17, part of the State Park Series organized by Trail Maniacs. I'm really excited for this! My last trail race was a lot of fun, and Farragut State Park is gorgeous. Hopefully we'll do some extra exploring as a family afterwards.
Then I think I probably won't do a race again until September/October. We will be traveling off and on so I am just hoping to build consistency and speed and to enjoy our beautiful summer by spending as much time outdoors as possible.
What are your summer plans, running and otherwise?
Wednesday, April 23, 2014
Ordinary Days
We watched some of the Boston Marathon on the live stream on Monday -- wasn't it inspiring? I love watching road races and track races -- wish there were more of them on TV/live streaming! M and I were both yelling "Go Meb!" as we watched, think I need to run out and buy myself some Sketchers now!
At lunch today, M was looking thoughtful and chatting away in his toddler jabber. It took me a minute to figure out what he was saying, but he was saying "miss Daddy" as in, "I miss Daddy." I said, "oh, do you miss Daddy?" and he said yes. But then he smiled and said "Daddy working" and I said "yep, you're right, Daddy is working, but he'll be home later and he definitely misses you!" M sure is such a little sweetheart. =)
 |
| Captivated by Meb's awesome run! |
At lunch today, M was looking thoughtful and chatting away in his toddler jabber. It took me a minute to figure out what he was saying, but he was saying "miss Daddy" as in, "I miss Daddy." I said, "oh, do you miss Daddy?" and he said yes. But then he smiled and said "Daddy working" and I said "yep, you're right, Daddy is working, but he'll be home later and he definitely misses you!" M sure is such a little sweetheart. =)
Tuesday, February 11, 2014
Back to the Track
We have had super cold and snowy weather over the last two weeks - too cold and snowy for stroller runs and it is too dark to run outside in the snow before my husband leaves for work and after he comes home.
Luckily for me though, our gym has an awesome little track for running, so that's where I head to get it done. I prefer the track over the treadmill, for some reason, I always feel overheated on the treadmill. Also, there is always something to look at while I'm making my laps because the track is on the second floor and overlooks the rest of the gym area: people swimming in the competition pool, playing basketball on the gym side, the old folks walking their laps (yes, that is going to be me one day!), etc.
It takes 11 laps to make a mile (the track is pretty small) so I am the crazy jogger trying to keep track of my laps as I go round and round. The most I have done on the track is 4 miles, but it is a great way to mix up my running indoors!
Luckily for me though, our gym has an awesome little track for running, so that's where I head to get it done. I prefer the track over the treadmill, for some reason, I always feel overheated on the treadmill. Also, there is always something to look at while I'm making my laps because the track is on the second floor and overlooks the rest of the gym area: people swimming in the competition pool, playing basketball on the gym side, the old folks walking their laps (yes, that is going to be me one day!), etc.
It takes 11 laps to make a mile (the track is pretty small) so I am the crazy jogger trying to keep track of my laps as I go round and round. The most I have done on the track is 4 miles, but it is a great way to mix up my running indoors!
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
Trail of Terror 5k Race Report
Saturday I did the Trail of Terror 5k with M in the stroller -- our first stroller race!
There was a 1/2 marathon option too. Considering he was yelling "All done" when we still had a quarter mile left to go in the 5k, I think we made the right choice by not running the longer distance. =)
This was a fun race. The weather was perfect - cool and crisp and the race is out on country roads that back up to the mountains so it can't be beat. People dress up in costumes, so M wore his Leopard costume. He was a fan favorite of course, and it kept him warm too!
We finished under 30 minutes (barely) which I was glad to see, but my mile #2 was pretty slow. There was another lady pushing a jogging stroller too and she and I kept passing each other on the long uphill during the second mile. I'm sure we were quite a sight, and she had a dog with her too! I was impressed. I was dragging on the uphill and even walked for a minute or two so I tried to let it loose on the downhill. Happy with my 8:35 mile #3!
We got a fun key chain and a growler at the finish line, along with a bunch of Halloween candy. You can tell I don't drink beer much because I didn't even know what a growler was. 1/2 marathon finishers also got a medal.
A fun race with a nice and chill post race party. M and I shared some pizza, watched the awards and listened to the music at the after party. He also enjoyed running around after the race, hopefully he'll want to do his own 5k some day! I really liked this race - we'll be back next year!
There was a 1/2 marathon option too. Considering he was yelling "All done" when we still had a quarter mile left to go in the 5k, I think we made the right choice by not running the longer distance. =)
This was a fun race. The weather was perfect - cool and crisp and the race is out on country roads that back up to the mountains so it can't be beat. People dress up in costumes, so M wore his Leopard costume. He was a fan favorite of course, and it kept him warm too!
 |
| Staying warm in the car before the race |
We finished under 30 minutes (barely) which I was glad to see, but my mile #2 was pretty slow. There was another lady pushing a jogging stroller too and she and I kept passing each other on the long uphill during the second mile. I'm sure we were quite a sight, and she had a dog with her too! I was impressed. I was dragging on the uphill and even walked for a minute or two so I tried to let it loose on the downhill. Happy with my 8:35 mile #3!
 |
| Pre-race snuggles! |
 |
| Post-race, trying to catch my breath! |
 |
| Gorgeous North Idaho! |
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
Hayden Lake Marathon, Half Marathon and 10K
Last weekend I ran the first annual Hayden Lake 10k with my runner girlfriends! What fun!
This was the first year for the Marathon, Half Marathon and 10k. The full marathon goes all the way around the lake! I'd like to do it one day, but for this year we settled for the 10k distance.
It was a ton of fun - a gorgeous course that climbs up gently in the first half, has a steep downhill around the halfway point and then rolls gently along the lake shore back to the start line. The 10k started at 9 (the longer distances at 7 am) so it was still a little chilly at the start, but we warmed up pretty quickly as we climbed the hills. We started out slowly, chatting along the way and admiring the views. There wasn't much traffic along the roads and there were plenty of volunteers holding traffic at a few spots. I know some folks had written in to the local paper to complain about the race, but at least for the 10k, we didn't see much car traffic, so I don't think we impeded the folks driving along the road all that much.
About halfway through the race, we turned down a sharp downhill and at this point I lost my friends because I just let the hill take me down. This probably wasn't the most responsible way to run, but all I could say was "whee!" and be glad that I didn't trip and fall and roll right into the lake! Then it was flat to gently rolling back to the starting line down at Honeysuckle Beach. I finished in a hour, so I was pleased considering that I hadn't done any specific training and didn't study the course beforehand. I set out to have a fun experience, and that is what it was.
The 10k was super scenic, so I know the other distances were too. The half marathon runs through some very pretty neighborhoods on the northwestern side of the lake, and we all agreed that we wanted to train for that distance next year.
The finisher shirts were awesome, and the half and full marathon finishers got some cool medals. They had plenty of food at the finish, including three different kinds of delicious soup and free Qdoba! (Yeah, I kind of stuffed myself after the race!) And yes, we waited an hour after we finished for our free food, haha! But we got to watch the half marathoners and full marathoners finishing and that was super inspiring!
I also have to mention that this race is a bargain - we paid $25 as the late registration for the 10k. I think the longer distances were good prices too. I only heard one half marathon finisher mention that the first aid station was at mile 6 and she wished it had been earlier.
This was a wonderful way to spend a beautiful Saturday morning! I hope to make this an annual event!
This was the first year for the Marathon, Half Marathon and 10k. The full marathon goes all the way around the lake! I'd like to do it one day, but for this year we settled for the 10k distance.
It was a ton of fun - a gorgeous course that climbs up gently in the first half, has a steep downhill around the halfway point and then rolls gently along the lake shore back to the start line. The 10k started at 9 (the longer distances at 7 am) so it was still a little chilly at the start, but we warmed up pretty quickly as we climbed the hills. We started out slowly, chatting along the way and admiring the views. There wasn't much traffic along the roads and there were plenty of volunteers holding traffic at a few spots. I know some folks had written in to the local paper to complain about the race, but at least for the 10k, we didn't see much car traffic, so I don't think we impeded the folks driving along the road all that much.
About halfway through the race, we turned down a sharp downhill and at this point I lost my friends because I just let the hill take me down. This probably wasn't the most responsible way to run, but all I could say was "whee!" and be glad that I didn't trip and fall and roll right into the lake! Then it was flat to gently rolling back to the starting line down at Honeysuckle Beach. I finished in a hour, so I was pleased considering that I hadn't done any specific training and didn't study the course beforehand. I set out to have a fun experience, and that is what it was.
The 10k was super scenic, so I know the other distances were too. The half marathon runs through some very pretty neighborhoods on the northwestern side of the lake, and we all agreed that we wanted to train for that distance next year.
The finisher shirts were awesome, and the half and full marathon finishers got some cool medals. They had plenty of food at the finish, including three different kinds of delicious soup and free Qdoba! (Yeah, I kind of stuffed myself after the race!) And yes, we waited an hour after we finished for our free food, haha! But we got to watch the half marathoners and full marathoners finishing and that was super inspiring!
 |
| Modeling my finisher t-shirt! Half marathoners and full marathoners got long sleeve shirts. |
I also have to mention that this race is a bargain - we paid $25 as the late registration for the 10k. I think the longer distances were good prices too. I only heard one half marathon finisher mention that the first aid station was at mile 6 and she wished it had been earlier.
This was a wonderful way to spend a beautiful Saturday morning! I hope to make this an annual event!
Sunday, June 23, 2013
Coeur d'Alene Half Marathon Race Review
It's been almost a month since I ran the Coeur d'Alene Half Marathon, so this recap is way overdue!!
I haven't seen any other CDA recaps online, so maybe this will prove helpful to someone thinking about running the race next year.
This race was a lot of fun. I think I'll try to run it every year (but maybe not race it!), because it's on a beautiful course, the perfect size and just plain fun.
It starts out in the Riverstone development (a kind of outdoor shopping area close to, but not in, downtown and just off of the interstate). Packet pickup is super easy and there is not really an expo, but you can browse the stores in Riverstone and Fleet Feet set up a both too. I liked the race shirt (tech long-sleeve, white) and I've already worn it a bunch. Plus, it only says "Marathon" and not "Half Marathon" so you get to look like a full marathoner. Ha!
The full marathon starts 30 minutes before the half, and then they kind of loop around so that the half start folds in to them so both groups are running together for approximately half of the half marathon distance. (Does that make sense? We ran together until the turn-around point for the half) There were a lot more runners doing the half as opposed to the full.
The weather was gorgeous and cool at the start. I rode my bike down to the starting line, and that was probably the coldest bike ride of my life, ha! I found my training buddy at the start (we had done nearly all of our long runs together) but since she was aiming for 10 min miles and I was aiming for 9 min miles, we split up pretty quickly.
There are no pacers or waves, the race is small enough that its easy enough to just start at once.
The first mile was super crowded since we were all crammed in one lane on Northwest Boulevard, the main drag into downtown. This police car was actually cruising down the lane next to us with an officer on the loudspeaker repeating "you are off the course!" to anyone who was running on the outside of the cones.
The route is gorgeous because it has a lot of shade, runs through some lovely neighborhoods and along the lakeshore and on our great paved trail. The full marathoners continue out to Higgins Point and then retrace their steps back along the same route as the halfers. There were plenty of water/gatorade stops and the volunteers were super positive and helpful.
The only downside was the finish was very disorganized and there were only 2 people pouring water into small cups for finishers. There were tons of people waiting for water and this was just taking too long. Individual bottles of water would have been much more efficient. They have a live band at the finish so it was quite a festive atmosphere. The full marathon was not a Boston Qualifier this year because of construction going on downtown, but the construction doesn't block the course, I think they just had to change it around some. I would describe it as a rolling course, and hill training definitely helps.
Other than the lack of drinks at the finish, I would definitely recommend this race to start off your summer!
I haven't seen any other CDA recaps online, so maybe this will prove helpful to someone thinking about running the race next year.
This race was a lot of fun. I think I'll try to run it every year (but maybe not race it!), because it's on a beautiful course, the perfect size and just plain fun.
It starts out in the Riverstone development (a kind of outdoor shopping area close to, but not in, downtown and just off of the interstate). Packet pickup is super easy and there is not really an expo, but you can browse the stores in Riverstone and Fleet Feet set up a both too. I liked the race shirt (tech long-sleeve, white) and I've already worn it a bunch. Plus, it only says "Marathon" and not "Half Marathon" so you get to look like a full marathoner. Ha!
The full marathon starts 30 minutes before the half, and then they kind of loop around so that the half start folds in to them so both groups are running together for approximately half of the half marathon distance. (Does that make sense? We ran together until the turn-around point for the half) There were a lot more runners doing the half as opposed to the full.
The weather was gorgeous and cool at the start. I rode my bike down to the starting line, and that was probably the coldest bike ride of my life, ha! I found my training buddy at the start (we had done nearly all of our long runs together) but since she was aiming for 10 min miles and I was aiming for 9 min miles, we split up pretty quickly.
There are no pacers or waves, the race is small enough that its easy enough to just start at once.
The first mile was super crowded since we were all crammed in one lane on Northwest Boulevard, the main drag into downtown. This police car was actually cruising down the lane next to us with an officer on the loudspeaker repeating "you are off the course!" to anyone who was running on the outside of the cones.
The route is gorgeous because it has a lot of shade, runs through some lovely neighborhoods and along the lakeshore and on our great paved trail. The full marathoners continue out to Higgins Point and then retrace their steps back along the same route as the halfers. There were plenty of water/gatorade stops and the volunteers were super positive and helpful.
The only downside was the finish was very disorganized and there were only 2 people pouring water into small cups for finishers. There were tons of people waiting for water and this was just taking too long. Individual bottles of water would have been much more efficient. They have a live band at the finish so it was quite a festive atmosphere. The full marathon was not a Boston Qualifier this year because of construction going on downtown, but the construction doesn't block the course, I think they just had to change it around some. I would describe it as a rolling course, and hill training definitely helps.
Other than the lack of drinks at the finish, I would definitely recommend this race to start off your summer!
 |
| The final 400m, up the hill and then they turn right to the finish line. |
 |
| My little guy enjoyed the spectacle! |
 |
| Post race breakfast at Le Peep - a MUST! It is delicious! |
Friday, June 21, 2013
5 Things From This Week
1. We had non-stop rain for two days this week. We had to turn the heat back on! M and I were going a little stir-crazy with all of the time in the house, but some play time at an indoor play area and a trip to walk around Kohl's sure helped get the wiggles (and screams!) out.
2. Speaking of M, he now says "yum" and "yay" occasionally. It is adorable.
3. I am trying out the Whole 30 program. So far (day 5) it feels like it takes all of the fun out of eating. But I guess that is kind of the point! I know I eat way too much artificial sweetener/processed foods, and a friend is one week ahead of me on the program, so I thought I'd see if this has any positive effects. I'm also curious to see what (if any) effect this may have on my unexplained infertility and running training.
4. Speaking of running training - my next planned race is the Scenic Half Marathon in Sandpoint. I'm going to try to follow a program that I found on Jenny Hadfield's site. It is a 14 week program so I'm already a few weeks behind, but I like that it includes a lot of strength training, cross training and speedwork.
5. It's Ironman weekend! And our 6th wedding anniversary! I'm hoping to get to watch some of both the Ironman start and finish this year. Last year we didn't get to watch any of it, but I am a running/fitness groupie and I am kind of fascinated by the level of commitment that it takes to train for, complete and complete in Ironmans, so I am really hoping to check it out. I did a few sprint triathlons as a law student and I still have my tri-bike, I just don't get out there on it nearly enough! Oh, and for our anniversary, we're just going out for dinner. =) We typically don't make a big deal out of our anniversary. I think we'll do something fun though for our 10th, so I'm glad I've got some time to plan!
Have a great weekend!
2. Speaking of M, he now says "yum" and "yay" occasionally. It is adorable.
3. I am trying out the Whole 30 program. So far (day 5) it feels like it takes all of the fun out of eating. But I guess that is kind of the point! I know I eat way too much artificial sweetener/processed foods, and a friend is one week ahead of me on the program, so I thought I'd see if this has any positive effects. I'm also curious to see what (if any) effect this may have on my unexplained infertility and running training.
4. Speaking of running training - my next planned race is the Scenic Half Marathon in Sandpoint. I'm going to try to follow a program that I found on Jenny Hadfield's site. It is a 14 week program so I'm already a few weeks behind, but I like that it includes a lot of strength training, cross training and speedwork.
5. It's Ironman weekend! And our 6th wedding anniversary! I'm hoping to get to watch some of both the Ironman start and finish this year. Last year we didn't get to watch any of it, but I am a running/fitness groupie and I am kind of fascinated by the level of commitment that it takes to train for, complete and complete in Ironmans, so I am really hoping to check it out. I did a few sprint triathlons as a law student and I still have my tri-bike, I just don't get out there on it nearly enough! Oh, and for our anniversary, we're just going out for dinner. =) We typically don't make a big deal out of our anniversary. I think we'll do something fun though for our 10th, so I'm glad I've got some time to plan!
Have a great weekend!
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
Bloomsday Re-cap!
Spokane's Bloomsday run is definitely something that should
be experienced at least once by every Northwestern runner. It is a HUGE race,
with almost fifty thousand runners and it is pretty amazing that the city pulls
it off so well and with such fanfare.
Here's how Bloomsday weekend went down for me:
On Friday, Michael and I went to the expo in downtown Spokane to pick up my race packet. I was surprised at how many other people were also there getting their packets because I thought most of the crowds would be there Saturday. We had to park a couple of blocks away and walk back to the convention center, which was kind of a hassle with the stroller and digging around to find small change to pay for parking. Once inside, they had a TON of tables set up for registration and so many volunteers working registration that most tables had no wait line. My camera battery was dead and I forgot my phone in the car so I wasn't able to get a picture.
We had a good time walking around the expo and checking out the vendors, and Michael particularly loved the free cookies. Btw I was surprised to see cookies and donut holes at the very first booth! There was also chocolate fondue at the booth for the Seattle Hot Chocolate Run! Not your typical runner food, haha!
I was seeded in the green group because I had never done the race before, but after talking with some of the other women from running group, they said I should try to move up into the yellow group because the green would be too slow. So I took proof of my Shamrock half finish and the nice volunteer lady bumped me up to yellow, but she made a funny comment like "well, under two hours for a half marathon, that's not too bad." I was thinking, hey that's my pr, what do you mean, not too bad!
Saturday morning I took Michael to running group with me and we just did two miles with him in the BOB. Everyone else there was running ten miles since all of the other Bloomies didn't show up to group. Michael had a good time getting to see other runners while riding in the stroller. Normally it’s just the two of us so he loves to have stuff/people to look at and to say "bah bah bah" to!
Sunday morning was RACE DAY!! The race didn't start until 9 so I actually didn't even have to get up early to go. My friends Andrea and Kyle picked me up at 7:30, but you know my little guy woke us up long before then! We drove over to the Spokane Valley Mall parking area and arrived shortly after 8 where there were several thousand people there waiting to board the buses.
 |
| Waiting to board the bus to Spok-angeles. |
All shapes and sizes were heading down to Spokane for Bloomsday. Tons of families with strollers, old men in
jeans, and I even saw one lady with a huge hiking baby carrier, wearing street
clothes and ballet flats. Surely she
wasn’t going to be walking! It was going
to be such a warm day! Yikes.
 |
| Bloomies! |
Thankfully we only had to wait about 20 minutes to board a
bus because they had a lot of buses there and since we were willing to stand on the
bus, got to skip a few of the folks in line ahead of us. It was
about a 15 minute ride to downtown, which was swarming with runners and
walkers! I have never been in a race this big, but I was continually
impressed by how organized everything was. You had to enter your color
group through a chain link fence, and they closed the gate to our color group
about 10 minutes to 9.
Andrea and I ended up at the back of the yellow area so next time I think we will try to move up a little further. We heard the gun go off for the elites at 9 and started to move up shortly thereafter. Around 9:10, we crossed the start line and we were off!
The first couple of miles were slightly downhill through downtown Spokane. The streets were so crowded that some folks were running on the sidewalks - dodging spectators and sometimes running into them too, yikes! It was so crowded that we were running slower than I would have liked, but I quickly realized that was just how it was probably going to be, so I should just relax and enjoy the show.
As we got further away from downtown, we had some up and downhills. The first half of the course was much hillier than I expected and lots of people were walking only a couple of miles in! There were 28 bands along the course and lots of people cheering so it felt like a party the whole way.
 |
| The starting line is up there...somewhere... |
Andrea and I ended up at the back of the yellow area so next time I think we will try to move up a little further. We heard the gun go off for the elites at 9 and started to move up shortly thereafter. Around 9:10, we crossed the start line and we were off!
The first couple of miles were slightly downhill through downtown Spokane. The streets were so crowded that some folks were running on the sidewalks - dodging spectators and sometimes running into them too, yikes! It was so crowded that we were running slower than I would have liked, but I quickly realized that was just how it was probably going to be, so I should just relax and enjoy the show.
 |
| First musical act: the Cathedral Choir! |
As we got further away from downtown, we had some up and downhills. The first half of the course was much hillier than I expected and lots of people were walking only a couple of miles in! There were 28 bands along the course and lots of people cheering so it felt like a party the whole way.
Shortly after mile 4/5, we had a nice down hill to cross a bridge and then we had to tackle the infamous “Doomsday Hill.” The hill looks more intimidating than it actually is because you can see it coming and you see all of the thousands of folks tackling it before you.
 |
| You can just barely see "Doomsday Hill" off in the distance - we are going downhill here, approaching the bridge that crosses the Spokane River. |
Doomsday is actually not terribly steep but it is about a half mile-ish long. There were folks really struggling to get up it, particularly because it was getting warmer and warmer and you really had to dodge the walkers if you wanted to keep running. At the top there was a guy in a vulture costume "circling his prey." Clever, but probably not appreciated by the folks who barely made it up the hill, haha!
 |
| Well, you know he was feeling the heat too! |
After this we had about 2 miles of flat/downhill running. We got to run through a beautiful neighborhood lining the Spokane river before turning back towards downtown. We ran down Broadway and then turned right to the finish line! I was giving my super cheesy smile and giant wave for the photographers, so my pics should look pretty ridiculous.
 |
| The finish is within sight! |
Pros:
- Lots of great entertainment on the course – you honestly don’t even feel like you’re doing a workout!
- Incredibly well-organized, from transportation to the start line, to the plentiful water stops, to picking up your shirt at the finish
- If you’re not used to running more than 4-6 miles, this is a great race to try a longer distance because with so many other folks, there’s so much to see to keep your mind occupied
- You can't beat the price! Registration was around $17 I think, and that included the cotton finisher shirt. And it's fun to wear your shirt around town with your other 49,999 new friends!
Cons:
- It was hot! (I know, it’s ridiculous for a Floridian to be complaining about the heat in May in WA state!) But maybe it just seemed hot because there were so many other sweaty runners all around? I don’t know.
- This is a fairly hilly course, so hill training really helps, especially if this is your first time running this distance.
- With so many runners, it is difficult to try to stay on your own pace. We were constantly dodging around people the whole time, and the color groups are still so big that there is a wide variety of paces lumped into one color. If you want to PR at the 12K distance, I’m not sure I’d recommend this as the race to do that. There are just too many people if you start anywhere other than the front of the yellow group (or further up!).
Wednesday, May 1, 2013
Spring: Northwest Style
I love Spring but Spring in the Northwest is bizarre! Last week temps were in the 70s, this week it will snow one minute and be clear the next. We've even had a thunderstorm - I know this isn't anything new for East Coasters but this was the first thunderstorm I've experienced here since moving in 2011.
Last night was another perfect example of crazy Spring weather: I joined my Fleet Feet running group for an easy 4 miles on the Flaming Turd Trail. (Not the formal name of course, but the most accurate!) My running buddy Andrea and I were moving along, chatting as we usually do on easy days and halfway through the run it began to "graupel." This is like Dippin' Dots falling from the sky, minus the strangely addictive deliciousness of the ice cream of the future and simply leaving you soaked. I didn't have my phone on me, so no pic, but we were drenched from running in it for only 5 minutes. During my 4 years in the Northeast, I don't think we ever had this kind of snow (snow pellets, to be more accurate?), and wouldn't you know, less than 5 minutes later, the sun was back out!
Today, on the other hand, it was a 54 degree bluebird day, and Michael and I got in an easy 3 miles in the sunshine:
I'm excited because I'm getting a little bit faster pushing the stroller while running. Notice that I did not say that I'm getting better coordinated! =) My husband always wants to barf every time I am driving the car and he is riding, so I am quite proud that my son has not once barfed in the stroller due to my crazy steering while running. LOL!
All this awesome time outside is making me look forward to summer hikes and bikes, camping and lake days. We didn't go camping at all last summer (new baby in the house!) so we have got to take advantage of our beautiful surroundings this time around and get OUT there! I want to get some new hiking/beach sandals and I'm considering both Chacos and the Keen Whisper sandals. My friend loves her Chacos but I might want a little more toe protection. We've also got trips to FL and MN coming up this summer, and I want to be able to use the shoes both on the beach and on the MN lakeshore. Do you love one or the other? Let me know - I'd love to hear your feedback!
Looking forward to some great conversation with my mom's group tomorrow morning, it's always fun to see these great gals and eat some delicious breakfast! Have a great Thursday, the weekend is almost here!
--Annie
Last night was another perfect example of crazy Spring weather: I joined my Fleet Feet running group for an easy 4 miles on the Flaming Turd Trail. (Not the formal name of course, but the most accurate!) My running buddy Andrea and I were moving along, chatting as we usually do on easy days and halfway through the run it began to "graupel." This is like Dippin' Dots falling from the sky, minus the strangely addictive deliciousness of the ice cream of the future and simply leaving you soaked. I didn't have my phone on me, so no pic, but we were drenched from running in it for only 5 minutes. During my 4 years in the Northeast, I don't think we ever had this kind of snow (snow pellets, to be more accurate?), and wouldn't you know, less than 5 minutes later, the sun was back out!
Today, on the other hand, it was a 54 degree bluebird day, and Michael and I got in an easy 3 miles in the sunshine:
 |
| Tall trees on our running/bike path. |
I'm excited because I'm getting a little bit faster pushing the stroller while running. Notice that I did not say that I'm getting better coordinated! =) My husband always wants to barf every time I am driving the car and he is riding, so I am quite proud that my son has not once barfed in the stroller due to my crazy steering while running. LOL!
 |
| Enjoying a little walk with Dad after dinner - we usually run during the morning. |
All this awesome time outside is making me look forward to summer hikes and bikes, camping and lake days. We didn't go camping at all last summer (new baby in the house!) so we have got to take advantage of our beautiful surroundings this time around and get OUT there! I want to get some new hiking/beach sandals and I'm considering both Chacos and the Keen Whisper sandals. My friend loves her Chacos but I might want a little more toe protection. We've also got trips to FL and MN coming up this summer, and I want to be able to use the shoes both on the beach and on the MN lakeshore. Do you love one or the other? Let me know - I'd love to hear your feedback!
Looking forward to some great conversation with my mom's group tomorrow morning, it's always fun to see these great gals and eat some delicious breakfast! Have a great Thursday, the weekend is almost here!
--Annie
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)