Jessica, a Houston Runner

2008-03-01T23:57:00.001-06:00

I MOVED...

I couldn't possibly move to Austin and remain 'A Houston Runner,' so behold my new blog home:
http://austintriathlete.blogspot.com

(Tried to get 'Austin Runner,' but that one was already snagged...)

Come visit me at my new home sometime!!!
-JA

2008-03-01T10:08:00.000-06:00

Week of 2/25-3/2 Workouts!

2/27/08: One Last 3 Mile Neighborhood run?

total running: 30 minutes or so

Heart-rate: n/a

Weather: cool

Notes: This may be the last time I run in Houston. I took this short run for what it was worth...a short run to give my mind a break from the mentally and emotionally draining task of moving. Not to mention I needed to shake out my legs a little after Saturday's race.

2/28/08: Last 3 Miles in Houston...
total running: 30 minutes or so
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cool
Notes: I got a little sentimental as I ran my neighborhood streets one last time. I don't know that I will really miss them...I have had to dodge dogs, cars, people, kids, flying sports balls...come to think of it, probably not the safest place to run. But somehow I made it work all these years...

Will miss you Houston...my next post will be from my new blog...and my new home. Keep in touch!

2008-02-23T11:45:00.000-06:00

Park to Park 5 Mile Race!

Although I didn't run very much this week (eekk, I know, but moving stresses and packing have kind of taken over...), I felt like I ran a great 5 miler. This is the first time I have ever raced this distance, so it was a distance PR for me:)

This was a fabulous course, flat, not too many turns...my right knee was a little sore at about 3 miles in...I think I might be due for a new pair of shoes?! Overall, I felt great except the last 100 yards (started sprinting too early) and came in 7th in my age group! I enjoyed this last race here in Houston (for a while) and the company of my friends as we all enjoyed cold beers and delicious breakfast tacos until we finally had to go home...

I'm gonna miss you guys and gals!!!!!!!!!!

The STATS:
5 miles
40:04
ave. 8:00/mile
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: nice and overcast!

2008-02-23T11:33:00.001-06:00

Week of 2/18-2/24 Workouts!

2/20/08: My last 5 Miles with the Striders! :(
total running: 44:35
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cool
Tonight was my 'last run' with my dear Striders. I will certainly miss everybody. I wasn't sad, per se, but I felt sentimental knowing I might not run on these streets again for a long while...thanks to all that came out, you guys are my second family....

2/23/08: Park to Park 5 Miler (see race report in seperate entry!)

2008-02-17T21:11:00.008-06:00

2/17/08: Suprise Last-Minute Austin
Half-Marathon-- 1:56:23!

Call me crazy, but this morning, with only about 24 hours notice and a pair of old (and I stress-OLD, running shoes), I ran the Austin Half Marathon! And if that's not crazy enough, (the cat is out of the bag now)...

I'm moving to Austin in two weeks!

more soon...

------

So this whole entire week I have mentioned to my running buddies 'oh I wish that I was running Austin this weekend!' Add in the fact that I WAS in Austin on Friday securing housing for my upcoming move to Austin (in two weeks due to a new and exciting job opportunity!). My mind was set:

I HAD TO RUN!

The problem is the race sold out two weeks ago. I just needed a bib. And sure enough, *watch what you ask for,* a bib landed in my lap due to Strider Terry's quick hawkeye and a generous Houstonian, Tim Allen. Tim cut me a deal for a FREE Austin Marathon bib-simply donate to his TnT page if I felt inclined and get to run for his son Andy.

So today, I actually ran for a cause.

It was one of the most humbling things I have ever done. Granted, I was not in shape to run the entire marathon. Or really even the half marathon to be honest with you. (The lack of posting on here should have made that apparent). But I ran the Half anyways. How could I possibly turn down the opportunity to run for someone other then myself?!

Thanks to the help of Coach Steeeeeeeve for logistical planning, Strider Marianne for picking up my packet and Jon Walk for motivation, I took this challange of running and had a great time. Sure the course was tough (but--DOABLE!). The hills were everywhere. On the plus side, the last mile is a downhill to the finish line. On the negative side, I strongly dislike powerade, the water stations were chaotic and personally, I like Houston better:)

But-that's OKAY! Today was about celebrating life. Celebrating Andy's life and his fight to beat Leukemia. Celebrating the fact I am in the best shape of my life and I am physically able to just 'jump out of bed' and run 13.1 miles. And almost PR. Celebrate the fact I am moving to a cool city like Austin where *everyone* runs and I truly already feel at home.

Today was one of the best days of my running career and for so many reasons other then 'just running.' Thanks to all that were able to share in it.

The Stats:

Watch time: 1:55:30 (did not get official finishing time due to not crossing Marathon finish line)
Pace: 8:49/mile

Splits:1-2) 18:52. Did not see Mile 1 marker.

3) 8:51. Passed right in front of my new place I will be living in:)

4-5) 18:01. Missed Mile 4 marker.

6) 7:38

7) 8:42 I started hurting here.

8) 9:12 Ohhh and I haven't even hit the last hills yet!

9) 8:55

10) 9:06

11) 9:23 The Enfield hill!!!!! I didn't walk it though!

12) 8:09

13-13.1) 9:29 almost all downhill! Nice way to finish!

PS: Thanks to Jon Walk for pointing out I did get an official time...although this was my first 'DNF' ever in a race due to the fact I didn't complete the entire marathon Type in the name Tim Allen to see :)

VISUAL PROOF!!!!!

2008-02-17T11:27:00.000-06:00

Week of 2/11-2/17 Workouts!

2/13/08: 6 Miles Around Neighborhood!

total running: 53:16

ave 8:52/mile

Heart-rate: n/a

Weather: cool

Notes: This will probably be my only run this week...going out of town for work the nest few days...we shall see if I get in any runs there...

2/17/08: AT&T Austin Half Marathon! See race report in seperate entry!

2008-02-10T21:15:00.001-06:00

30 Miles of Cycling-the West U Warmup Ride Report!

Kind of on a whim, and kind of 'to get me on my bike more,' I challanged myself to get prepared for for a 30 mile bike ride. Unfortunetly, I never really got 'prepared enough,' and only ended up riding a few times before this ride. Oops. I knew my tush would be feeling it after this ride.

So Strider Wil and I drove out to the South Houston area (near 288 and the Beltway) to get in a nice 30 mile ride. We saw a few of our Houston Racing friends there, and then got underway after I had my pedal tension adjusted and then fell off my bike (lol). Luckily, there were no damages other then a slighty bruised ego!

Overall, the ride went fine and the roads were pretty smooth. We only stopped once around mile 20 to get a snack and continued on. Wil was feeling better then me so I let him take off and I suffered through the last 5 miles or so alone. I do need to get on my bike more, no way around that. We passed on breakfast and headed home after a great morning of cycling.

The STATS:
30 miles
a little over 2 hours
ave. 16.5 mph
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: breezy and overcast. great weather!

2008-02-10T17:13:00.000-06:00

Week of 2/4-2/10 Workouts!

2/4/08: 6 Miles Around Neighborhood!
total running: 52:55
ave 8:49/mile
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cool
Notes: I felt really good tonight so I pushed this 'casual run' into a tempo run and enjoyed the entire thing:)

2/6/08: 6 Miles Around with the Striders!!
total running: 53:32
ave 8:55/mile
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cool
Notes: I didn't quite have the same spring in my legs that I had on Monday, so I took this run a little easier. It was a great chance to have a chat with Coach Stevvvvvvve and we ran the middle two miles as a tempo run. Then the last mile, we put the hammer down. I am sure I was somewhere in the 7:30 range...that was fun AND hard:)

2/8/08: 3 Easy Miles Around the 'Hood.
total running: 30 mins
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cool
Notes: Ran easy tonight, but felt totally recoved from my run on Wednesday with the guys.

2/9/08: 1o Miles on the BIKE!
total time: 37 minutes
ave 16.4 mph, max 20 mph
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cool
Notes: On a beautiful day like today, I HAD to get on the bike!!! Plus, I promised Strider Will that I would do a 30 mile bike ride with him tomorrow!!! EKKKK!! It was a great ride today though, at an 'easy pace' mainly to get use to the new saddle I just put on my bike (good call!)

2/10/08: 30 Miles of Cycling-the West U Warmup!!
See race report in seperate entry!

2008-02-03T17:48:00.000-06:00

Week of 1/28-2/3 Workouts!

1/29/08: Speed workout-2x800! 4 total Miles.
total running: 20 min. wp, 1/2 mile cd
3:36, 3:41 (goal was 3:50-so yeah!)
Heart-rate: 160 av/211 max
Weather: cool
Notes: Not a whole lot of workouts this week, which kind of is a drag since I feel like I am recovering from the marathon nicely...Workout tonight was two simple 800m at 5k pace, so I was aiming for 3:50. I beat that, and I should have done at least 2 more repeats. Ah well, just getting back to speedwork, I need to take it easy...

1/30/08: 7 Miles at/around Memorial park/Jackson Hill/Rose Garden!
total running: 1:07
ave 9:34/mile
Heart-rate: 138 ave 183 max
Weather: cool
Notes: Strider Terry and I ran the first half of this run together, yapping our mouths off about cycling and triathlons and didn't even pay attention to WHERE we were going! We ended up running a bit extra and after he and I parted and Memorial and Shepard, I ran a little extra. It feel great to run 7 miles tonight...longest distance since Marathon.

2008-01-28T17:21:00.000-06:00

Week of 1/21-1/27 Workouts!

1/21/08 3 Mile Recovery Run-first since mari!
total running: 30 minutes
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: a/c
Notes: The weather is soo dreadful this week so I don't plan to be running outside much (plus, being sick doesn't help!) 3 miles on the treadmill tonight was boring, but actually felt really good.
My IT band (right) is still tight but I am making a concious effort to work on it every day this week. I also did 10 mins. of upper body free-weights as a cooldown after the run.

1/22/08: 3 Slow Miles in the Neighborhood!
total running: 30 minutes
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cold and wet.
Notes: The cold weather always messes with my right knee and IT band so I ran easy tonight. Followed up the run with 10 minutes of ABs workout as a cool-down.

1/24/08: 6 Miles-My long run for the week!
total running: 56:07
ave: 9:21/mile
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cold!! maybe 40 degrees!
Notes: I didn't want to run on this cold night but after about 20 minutes, I warmed up pretty good and enjoyed the stillness of the cold. After about 40 minutes, I wanted to run another hour or so:)

1/26/08: My first brick workout this year! (AKA, multi-athlete whoas!)
total cycling: 58:03
ave 15.6/mile
total running: 27:53
ave: 9:17/mile
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cool. 53 degrees at 1pm!
Notes: My first brick workout of the year:) I was so excited to finally get on my new bike:) I certainly didn't break any speed-records, but considering I haven't rode a bike (in a training sense) since September, I am pretty happy to average mid 15's. I do need to put my old saddle on the bike though...ouch to my new one! The run was slow and almost painful. It's gonna be a few weeks/months of 'getting back to it.' On the 'top end' I was going about 19 mph. Yeah!

This is a sign...no more 'breaks' from the bike during marathon season. I am buying a bike trainer pronto:)

Oh....and just wait. Swimming is coming up in another month or so...I am so scared I am gonna drown! That's another demon though, lol....

2008-01-27T13:04:00.000-06:00

LOOK: More Marathon Leftover Goodies :)

Ahh, so all the soreness drifted/got massaged away in about 3 days, which is a pretty good and quick recovery for me. THEN! I came down with a really nasty cold on Tuesday, the 15th, that I am STILL shaking off (as of 1/27!) So, not a whole lot of working out has been going.

I did decide though that, YES, i am happy with my 4:02 and I shall let that remain as my marathon time UNTIL next year:) I am actually, after the fact, VERY proud of how well my training went this year. I avoided painful injury, stuck to my 4-5 days a week of running and managed to do a little cross-training for all but 2 months of training! Plus, my Yasso workout was DEAD-ON for predicting my time:)

Ahhh...never deny good ole' fashion hard work and the wonderful coaching staff of the Houston Striders! :) THANK YOU ALL!

More goal-planning coming up, including losing 10 pounds by June (have already lost 4 pounds in January) and perhaps relocating my blog for...good reasons (SHOCK!) but in the meantime, enjoy these leftover goodies:) And yes, I will be racing in Feb! :)

Video of me finishing (my poor right leg is pulling sooo hard!):
http://www.finishcam.com/Events/2008-Chevron-Houston-Marathon/WatchFinish.asp?FinisherId=34025&Camera=2

How I placed in relation to everyone else...top 20% of my age-group is nothing to feel bad about!
http://www.runpix.info/hou08/42/finord.php?LastName=1685&lan=&aset=0

2008-01-20T17:12:00.000-06:00

Week of 1/14-1/20 Workouts!

My recovery week/being sick! No running this week...

(well-deserved, may I add!)

2008-01-13T14:11:00.000-06:00

1/13/08: Houston Marathon Race Report: 04:02:13 (official!)

So I missed my goal of 4 hours...barely!

But this was a nearly 14 minute PR for me, so who am I to complain!!!!!!!!

I'm going to eat a greasy and well-deserved quarter pounder with cheese and then shower and take a 5 hour nap.

Congrats to all the PR'ers out there today!
more soon!

------

Wow, what to say.
I came sooooooo close to 4 hours.
Now almost 12 hours after the fact, I am trying to dissect 'what went wrong,' or at least 'what I can improve on.'

In terms of 'what went wrong,' two major things: damn cramps in my feet again at mile 8 (almost like clockwork!) and being hungry almost the entire race. The cramps? I drank plenty of fluids so it's not that. The being hungry thing? I had half a bagel with peanut butter, a banana and half a large gatorade before the race and then half a banana and an ENTIRE clif bar during the race. Geez....no wonder I only lost 2 pounds during the race:)

In terms of 'what to improve on,' the damn last 4 miles KILLED me. At Mile 23 and on I was walking way more then I wish I had. At mile 24, I knew I wouldn't make 4:00 so I kind of backed off the pace and relaxed a little. One thing is for sure is that this marathon wasn't as 'fun' as last year. In fact, I don't really remember a whole lot about it. Overhearing cyclists that were watching us run say 'They should be more efficient and run pace lines' was pretty funny though but I don't remember much else, I guess I was 'zoned' that much. Oh yeah, the belly dancers! haha :)

Mentally, I was in a great place the entire race though. The sharp-focus that has paramont to my training this year came into play early in the race and although I went out faster then I had planned, I was able to keep it together mentally and stay calm and collected. I almost broke down at mile 17 when I saw my BFF Wes though. Hurting for nearing 18 miles will do that to you though.

Post-marathon my body feels decent. The dumb right knee held itself together and actually didn't give me any problems during the race! Of course I wore a dumb knee brace and probably looked crippled during the Mile 23-25 stretch. Ughh...that part of the course=no good to me STILL.

So..........I am faced with a small personal dillema that I am beginning to think will haunt me if I don't go for it: to beat 4:00 this year. This means running another marathon though. Soon. I don't know about Austin though...maybe Big D in March?! Or should I let it go til next year???! I think I can eekkk out another marathon though...

All I know is I am putting it on the table now for next year: 3:50.
or is 3:55 more reasonable for me????????????????

Ouch...all I know is I am going to have to train my ASS off AT LEAST 4 days a week from now til then and stay injury free during tri season to do this. Plus lose some weight (!). 5 pounds would be nice, but even with eating right=nearly impossible to drop weight...sigh.

i'm ready to go to that next level though, as I told Coach Steeeeeeeeeeeve, that's for sure. I can't accept 'close enough' when I know I can do more....and better.

The Stats:
Start: 7:00:40 AM
10k: 00:55:15
Half: 01:56:22
30K: 02:47:46 <--about a 6 minute 30k PR for me:)
Finish: 04:02:13
Gun time: 4:03:40
Pace: 9:14
Placement:Overall-1851
Gender-485
Age Group-89

Splits:
1) 9:33 (crowded start, but it quickly opened up. I like the two seperate wave start. I hope they keep it!!!)
2) 8:56
3) 8:59
4) 8:52
5) 8:54
6) 8:05 (damn GU!!! Plus I was running with Lawrence, a recent new Ironman...nice guy! His plan was to run 4 marathons in 4 months! wow!)
7) 8:44
8) 8:40
9) 8:50 (started to slow down here, just like I wanted to though, but my feet were bugging me too)
10) 8:52
11) 8:55
12) 8:59
13) 9:04 (still feeling okay)
14) 8:59
15) 9:07
16) 9:23 (hit the invisble physical wall...ouch)
17) 9:17
18) 9:27
19) 9:30 (I knew I still had a 'cushion' so I started walking here)
20) 9:34
21) 9:32 (still doing ok)
22) 9:30
23) 9:50 (starting really falling apart here...even walking hurt)
24) 10:13 :( byebye 4 hours)
25) 10:15
26) 10:00 (didn't walk at all this mile...almost there!)
26.2) 2:01 (yes, I cried at the finish!)

When's the next one...any takers to pace me to a 4 hour finish this year:) i'll pay you:)

2008-01-11T10:10:00.000-06:00

Week of 1/7-1/13 Workouts!
(last taper week.....wooht!)

1/8/08: SMART-About 3 Short Speedy Miles
total running: 30:56
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cool
Notes: THIS IS THE WEEK! We did the MP loop with 45 seconds sprints all the way around...I felt fast although I know the intent of the workout was just to 'run the jitters out.' haha.

1/9/08: 4.5 Miles-Jackson Hill and Backtotal
running: About 45 minutes
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cool
Notes: I bought some nifty little arm warmers and gave them a test run tonight and they work great! No need to bring a long sleeve shirt on sunday to the race!

1/10/08: SMART-3 Miles and no more Running Until!!!!!!!
total running: 3 miles
ave running: 8:45/mile
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cool
Notes: My last run...ohhh so exciting! I meant to hold back...but oh well! The unofficial Candelari's gathering afterwards was devine. Eat all you can pizza?! Did I ever go wrong with wanting to run!!!! :)

Well, good luck to EVERYONE running on Sunday (I know the RockandRoll, Mobile and Disney marathons are the same day too). Have fun, take in the crowds and don't forget to smile! If this is your first one...don't be nervous and don't forget what it feels like in that last quarter of the mile to the finish! You will never get that 'firsttime' feeling again!

1/13/08: THE HOUSTON MARATHON!
(stay tuned for the full race report after the race!)

2008-01-09T18:00:00.001-06:00

Gearing up for the Marathon!

Look what I saw online @ http://blogs.chron.com/runhouston/

HARRA Fall Runner of the Season Top Ten Listings
Heading into Sunday's Chevron Houston Marathon, here are the Top Ten leaders in each category of the Houston Area Road Runners Association's Fall 2007 Runner of the Season standings:

Women under 40
1. Lindsey Harkema

2. Jennifer Brown (TOR)

3. Alexandra Gajewski (TOR)

4. Stacy Holden (ALRC)

5. Sara Collazos (HMSA)

6. Heather Thompson (HS)

7. Michelle Meyer (BARC)

8. Veronica Hoge (BARC)

9. Kelly Allen (BCRR)

10. Jessica Alexander (HS) 8:38:16

(only one in 25-29 age group)

Yeah, I snuck in there somehow:) Too bad I won't stay in there after the marathon:)

2008-01-05T10:04:00.000-06:00

Week of 12/31-1/6 Workouts!
(taper week, part 2)

12/31/07: 6 Miles in the Neighborhood!
total running: 58:35
ave running: 9:45/mile
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cool
Notes: Nothing excited about this run, however, I ran at a more relaxed pace then normal to take in the last of the holiday lights. My neighbors must have some expensive electricity bills:)

1/2/08: SMART-5.6 Miles around Jackson Hill!
total running: 49:16
ave running: 8:47/mile
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cold.
Notes: Happy New Year:) Tonight was a tempo run...felt nice to really push this workout since this will probably be the last 'tough' wourkout I will do until the marathon!

1/3/08: 6 Mile Group Workout @ Memorial Park!
total running: 6 miles
ave running: 9:50/mile
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cold.
Notes: After last night's banner efforts (haven't really pushed my legs that much in a while) I took it easy tonight and ran with Strider Barry, my former PIM coach. A great run and good conversations!

1/5/08: Last Long Run: 11.5 Miles Through River Oaks!
total running: 1:49
ave running: 9:29/mile
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cool.
Notes: What a great last run! Although I felt a little tired and sluggish, this was an exciting 'last run.' No more waking up at 6am...for a little while:) MS150 season is here before you know it (I'm not doing the actual race though, just the training). The dedication for Ralph Collins' bench afterwards was very nice and a great way to remember a great runner.

R.I.P. Ralph...a Great Runner, Coach and Friend I never got to know...

2007-12-29T17:49:00.000-06:00

Week of 12/24-12/30 Workouts!
(let the taper begin!)

12/27/07: 3 Mile Recovery Run on the Treadmill!
total running: 30 minutes
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cool
Notes: Tonight I felt achy and my knee was bothering me a little, so I opted for a short (and warm) 3 mile run inside on the treadmill. Not fun...but it was a needed!

12/28/07: 3 Slow Miles in the Neighborhood!
total running: 33 minutes
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cold.
Notes: My legs still felt heavy tonight so I just took it easy. Hopefully my legs feel better tomorrow!

12/29/07: 7 Miles of Yasso 800's!!!!!!!!
total running: about 1:40
ave Yasso (800m): 4:03 or so
4:18. 4:10, 4:07, 3:56, 4:07
4:17, 3:57, 3:55, 3:54, 3:54
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cold.
Notes: Well...this is the 'benchmark' workout that is suppose to predict how you will run your upcoming marathon. Guess what I did? Yup, 4:03. Not quite a 4:00, but close enough. The weather couldn't have been more perfect today and i was thankful to have my fellow Striders by and with for support. Not a fun workout (the worst track workout we do, I think. And I love track!) but I did really well overall. The coffee afterwards made it worth it!

Happy holidays all!

2007-12-22T18:06:00.000-06:00

Week of 12/17-12/23 Workouts!

12/17/07: 6 Mile Tempo Run in the Neighborhood!
total running: 53:59
ave. 8:59/mile
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cool
Notes: Tonight I felt like running for speed, so I did. I felt really good for some reason. Maybe it's the christmas cheer in the air:)

12/18/07: 7 Mile MP Smartie Lights Run!
1:17 or so total running
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cold.
Notes: Ran this run as a tempo for about half the course. I felt pretty thirsty the last 3 miles though so I slowed things down to keep from feeling too parched:). Striders Bessie and Coach Matt brought delicious treats for afterwards!

12/20/07: 5.5 miles MP Smartie hills!
total running: 50:11
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cool
Notes: We did our last hill workout for the marathon season tonight. The goal was to do 10 lonnnng repeats. I did 9 and was quite happy with my efforts. I did tire down but it felt great to finish the workout!

12/21/07: 3 Neightborhood Miles!
32:57 total running
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cold
Notes: After yesterday's workout, I felt like I was dragging today! However, I pushed through and it felt nice just to run 3 easy miles.

12/22/07: 23.6 miles--The Longest Long Run!!!

total running (including stops): 4:29
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cold at start-maybe 43. warmed up about a degree at the end.
Notes: I did it, I did it!!!! I wanted to run all 23 miles, and wasn't really sure. However, after setting a nice and easy pace with Strider Hillary and then meeting up with Strider Mark at mile 9, things just fell into place. Our pace was nice and relaxed, and when we needed a drink, we stopped. Mark ran well throughout and wouldn't run with me anymore after mile 21, so I did the last two miles by myself. That was probably the hardest thing I did...my mind was all out of it and I guess you can say i 'hit the wall.' Finishing was great though-what a confidence booster!

NOW I'm ready for that marathon! :)

2007-12-15T17:35:00.000-06:00

Week of 12/10-12/16 Workouts!

12/11/07: MP Smarties--5.6mile Jackson Hill Route!
total running: (last half) 36.49
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cool
Notes: This isn't one of my favorite runs (it gets pretty dark on that Hill loop) but it was nice to know the route so well and push myself. The first two miles were pretty slow but I began to warmup quickly, speed up, and finished the last mile in a sprint at probably 95% effort. Nice finish!

12/12/07: 3.5mile Uptown Christmas Tree Lights Run!
34:11 or so of total running
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cold. 40 degrees or so
Notes: The weather, albiet COLD!, held up this year and we had a great and relaxed run. I actually pushed myself alittle bit in efforts to keep up with the faster group of runners, but overall, it was a fun time, even if we got lost. :) And the best part? The Shiner beer and the food at the end!

12/13/07: MP Smarties--5.5mile Rose Garden run!
total running: ??
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cool
Notes: This was another typical Rose Garden run...I don't remember much about it but we did make it a tempo run and I did put in good effort towards the end of the run.

12/15/07: The Final "Sealy Dealy"-14 or so miles of hilly fun!
2:18 total running
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cold and WINDY!
Notes: Well, this run was destined to not happen, I think. I barely made it to Katy to meet everyone there since there was an accident or something on I-10, then a bad cold front came through, and it rained like crazy alllll the way to Sealy/Columbus, and then the second we got out to run, it was like "Sunshine!" The run was nice overall. Strider Randy and I ran together for half of it, then the last half I pushed myself to run the hills aggressively. I was really proud of my efforts in this run, although my time doesn't reflect it. The breakfast after at Tony's--still the best:) I am getting soo ready for this marathon!!!

2007-12-09T13:17:00.000-06:00

12/9/07: 30k Race Report!
...and all that's left is the Marathon!

Well...it wasn't pretty but I ran much better then I thought I would. Only walked twice (or was it 3 times?) and finished really strong. Only missed a PR by less then a minute. 2:53 and some change.

Oh yeah, I literally passed out at the finish line. Luckily Strider Santos was there to catch me! I'm fine though...just got overwhelmed by all the people at the finish talking to me.

4th in my age group on a less-then-ideal race day with a bum (runner's) knee.

I'll take it!

(more later...)

---

It was definetely a 'less then ideal' race day sue to the damn weather. There is no doubt about it-ask anyone who raced this past weekend or even supported us. I heard numerous times during the race 'If it's this hot during the marathon, we are all in trouble!' I actually lost count of how many times I heard this...

And I couldn't agree more. It was 76 degrees with 97 percent humidty at the 7am start time, with the sun starting to pop out from behind the clouds around 9am. We ALL knew it was going to be tough.

Mentally, the first 6 miles of the race I was a mess. I kept mentioning the stupid weather out loud to anyone that was in earshot. I am sure I really pissed/annoyed some people off, so I apologize now after the fact. No one needed a reminder as to how bad it felt. However, a good Samaritan who heard me told me to relax around mile 2..."It's all in your head," he said, "You are above this...you can control you..." and he trailed off as he ran off in front of me.

Words to the wise...but it made the biggest difference...believe me...

Nothing worth mentioning really happened during this race...lots of running, lol. Lots of people walking after about Mile 10 and people with cramps too. I mean WALKING, like a death march. It was really sad, the heat really was getting to people, especially the crowd that went out too fast and didn't adjust their pace due to the weather. Runners were grabbing 3 or 4 cups at the water stations just to cool off with. I would usually grab 2-one to drink (Gatorade) and one to splash on my neck and back to cool off. It helped a little.

Around mile 14 my right knee started hurting in that dull, aching 'marathon-sorta pain.' Anyone that was has done a marathon knows what I am talking about. This is the pain that hurts while you are running, but the second you stop, you feel fine. It's the worst! Anyhow, I pushed through it, and kept reminding myself to relax and keep my shoulders down (Thanks, Lisa, you helped remind me to relax too!)

Around mile 16 I was remembering how bad I felt in this race last year...and I actually felt much better this year! So...I started pushing it. I wasn't sure if I could still PR so I tore off my pace band, but I mean, it felt like I was pushing it and that was okay for now. Reality was that I was probably just draggin my feet a little quicker:) Anyhow, the Striders gave me plenty of encouragement and I was passing people left and right. It was a good time to praise God for keeping me moving, seriously. At this point, hardly ANYone was running (at least at where I was).

I got real dehyrdated as I dumped my bag of Sports Beans in my mouth, but luckily at mile 18 I saw my dad and he gave me some water which really really helped. Plus, knowing my daddy and mommy were there gave me the biggest boost of self-confidence! And maybe I could still PR! I crossed the finish line with a huge dumb grin on my face (again!), but knowing I missed my PR by less then a minute, I started feeling real light-headed. All of a sudden I felt surrounded by people and really confused. Everyone was talking to me and all I wanted to do was keep walking.

Right then, I turned around towards a place to sit down and blacked out! Santos caught me in record time and I don't think I was out long but I did hit the ground pretty fast. Then I opened my eyes and more people were around me! I motioned (I think I did) for people to give me air and I stood up after a minute or so and started having an excerise-induced asthma attack! It was horrible, but Santos helped me calm down. I felt fine after a few minutes and my parents were right there to watch me until I felt okay to walk around again. Sorry for the scare, folks!

Yes, a dramatic finish! Hopefully, the Marathon will have a finish that is more memorable, but for the right reasons:)

Things I learned today: Don't forget my iPOD. Drink more water-even if means grabbing two waters at each station. Thirlos socks are too thick for me (even the thin ones). Having family and friends support means absolutely the world, no matter how tired I am. and most importantly:

I am mentally ready for the marathon.

I can't wait...I can't wait! Slightly over a month to go!!!

THE STATS:
18.6 miles @ave 9:18/mile
2:53.10 official chip time

1:25:33 first 15k
1:27:30 second 15k

9:47, 9:21, 9:27, 8:53
9:13, 9:09, 9:00, 8:46
9:01, 9:14, 9:13, 9:15
8:06 (short), 10:55 (long), 10:17, 9:21
9:10, 9:15, 5:37 (.6 mile)

and a little post tid-bit 'o fun!...thanks to Karen @ Your Sporting Image!

http://www.yoursportingimage.com/Image.asp?catalogID=1838249
http://www.yoursportingimage.com/Image.asp?catalogID=1838241
http://www.yoursportingimage.com/Image.asp?catalogID=1838244

2007-12-09T05:00:00.000-06:00

Week of 12/2-12/9 Workouts!

12/3/07: MP Smarties with the Boys...all 7 Miles!
total running: 1:01 or so
ave 8:57/mile
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cool
Notes: It felt really really good to run tonight. Even if it was just me and Coaches Matt and Chip, we still had a great workout. Did three long hill repeats and a run to the Rose Garden and back. It was really dark out and a lot of neighbors have already paid to get their christmas lights put up. It was fun though and good conversations...and thanks for the Boys for not letting me hold them back too much!

12/5/07: 4 Miles by Myself at Home!
38:25 total running
ave 9:36/mile
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cool
Notes: Not the most exciting run in the neighborhood, but after the stress of the day, it felt so good to just RUN!

12/6/07: 6 Smartie Miles-with a slight accident!
total running ?
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: warm-ish and humid
Notes: This was a typical Rose Garden run except Strider Michelle had an accident and ended up banging her leg up:(. Luckily, after the fact, she is okay and we didn't leave her stranded and fending for yourself. Major props to Bessie and Coach Matt for staying with her until 2am at the hospital! Hopefully nothing is broke! (Thankfully, no).

12/8/07: 3 Miles-the Calm before the Storm
27:07 total running
ave 9:02/mile
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: 80 degrees, and pretty humid
Notes: Well...we all know it isn't always a GREAT idea to do any amount of running before a big race the next day. However, as warm as it was, and the fact I didn't feel 'weather-acclimated' (come on...it's been 50 degrees all week and now it's almost 80!), I had to go out and run 3 miles during the hottest part of the day at my ideal race-pace. Yes, it wasn't fun, yes, it was hot, and yes, I was glad it was over. However, it felt GOOD. It felt really good. Tomorrow...here I COME!

12/9/07: 18.6 Miles aka THE 30k!
(Read about this in a seperate race report!)

2007-12-01T18:09:00.000-06:00

Week of 11/26-12/1 Workouts!

11/27/07: 4.5 painful miles around Memorial Park!
total running: 48:57
ave 10:52/mile
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cool
Notes: So...that nagging knee thing from Saturday ever went away and is back in even more force today...argh! I ran slowly with Strider Abby (my old PIM partner!) and she tried to help me diagnose what was going on. After I got home though, I figured out I got an acute case of Runner's Knee! Argh again! Time to bust the ice out!

11/28/07: 3 Miles on the Treadmill!
31:30 total running
ave 10:30/mile
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: a/c coolness
Notes: Not running is not an option for me, so I took it easy with three really easy miles on the treadmill tonight. Yes, it was slow, and yes, it hurt the last mile, but at least I did it. I know with the 18 miler a little over a week away, I need to get myself to run through this nagging knee pain. I plan to buy a knee brace too and see if that helps.

12/1/07: 9 Miles around the Park!
total running: 1:23.58
ave 9:19/mile
9:32, 9:11, 9:30, 9:19, 9:46,
8:47, 9:51, 9:30, 8:35
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: humid and warm (70 degrees or so)
Notes: This was orginally suppose to be a 12 mile run, but I had to cut it short after 3 loops around the Park because my right knee was hurting pretty good. However, I was running much faster and with more intensity than I had planned to, so I blame the knee pain partially on that. The knee brace I bought from Wal-Greens (of all places) is working wonders (other then the side of it rubbing my other leg 'wrong' every once in a while). Hopefully I don't have to wear it the rest of the Marathon season, but the best news is that all the stretching and icing I am doing is paying off and yes, the knee is finally feeling better, even while I am running. I am praying for some colder weather next week though-sheesh!

2007-11-25T11:51:00.000-06:00

Week of 11/18-11/25 Workouts!

11/20/07: 6 Miles-2 Loops at the good ole Park!
total running: 57:40
ave 9:36/mile
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: humid!!
Notes: After a week of not running at all (I know! I know!) coming back to Houston was the best thing for me! I decided to run 6 miles by myself and two loops around the Park would have to be the fix for tonight. It felt great to run, I'm not even joking. Of course, I wasn't going fast, but the objective for the night was just to RUN! Overall, a great and enjoyable run!

11/23/07: 6 Miles at and around the Park!
56:54 total running
ave 9:29/mile
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cold! 50 degrees at 11am!
Notes: What a difference the cold weather makes! It scares away all the walkers/joggers/families who sometimes are 3-5 people across and cause me to dodge them and nearly twist my ankles! Plus I feel like I can run forever in this stuff:) This morning, I just got up late, ran a comfortable speed to workoff that thanksgiving pie I ate and kill time until my car's oil change was done. Ran into local running star Lance (literally--those damn train tracks really cause you to watch your steps though) and saw one of the Schroeders (Steve, to be exact). Steve, thanks for the inspiration this morning. I should have ran with you:) Overall, a nice morning and I am ready to tackle that 19 miler this morning as long as the weather behaves!

11/25/07: 18 Wet, Slow and Cold Miles aka 'Poor Mans Tour'!
total running: 3:18 or so
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cold! wet! what else is there to say!
Notes: I know I just said it before, but the weather does make a difference! After having the TdM canceled yesterday due to horrible raining and cold weather (first time in 13 years!!!) and me being more then 'just' bummed out ( I woke up at 5:30 am for NOTHING! argh!), I was sincerely thankful that other runners would be joining me this morning for another shot at it:) Honestly, there was nothing memorable about this run other then my right knee hurting the entire time (boo!), running comfortably with Striders Hillary and Debbie and the relentless and annoying rain the last 9 miles of the run. Oh! And the breakfast afterwards-devine:) Overall, glad it is done. One more 'tough but doable' training run on December 22nd and my training is pretty much complete!

2007-11-17T11:48:00.000-06:00

Week of 11/12-11/17 Workouts!

For the first time since I have started keeping a workout journal, I have nothing to report this week. :(

I had a business trip to Indy with no opportunities to run or workout. However, I did walk EVERYWHERE since I didn't have a car. I probably walked 5 plus miles a day. That probably counts as a workout, I guess.

Overall, I am glad this week is over!

2007-11-12T09:48:00.000-06:00

LOOK: I BOUGHT A NEW BIKE!

Peep at it here...and the full 25K is below this!

Thanks to my good friends at Tri on the Run for a wonderful experience...I can't to start riding more!!!

2007-11-11T12:51:00.000-06:00

11/11/07: 25K and another big PR!

I must have ate some Wheaties today not knowing it because I pulled out another PR!

2:20:19. (actually, that's my gun time).

CHIP TIME: 2:19:47.

On.possibly.the.hottest.and.most.humid.November.day.i.ever.remember.

This can only be a true testament to the will of my soul, my hard training, and not being injured this time around.

More later...but bike shopping comes now:)

--

(and yes, I bought a bike! see the post above...)

Anyhow, I did it. I set a goal for myself (9:00/min for 15.5 miles=2:20 25K) and stuck it out. And oh yes, it was tough. very tough.

but you know what? I can do this...I can push myself. I have done the marathon before. what is there to be scared of? And why am I going to hold back? I can do this...I train hard and deserve every PR I get!

So I went and got my PR!

I knew the second I got up at 4am that the weather was going to be less then desireable. it fact, i didn't do my normal pre-race 1/2 mile jog from the parking lot to the chip pickup. I could feel the sweat already dripping down my back just walking briskly. ouch. i did get to the race fairly early though, which allowed me to get 'slightly' acclaimated to the 70 degree weather and eat half a Carbboom. Yummy Vanilla. I could eat it every day since it tastes so much like cake frosting! :)

So I started the race with Strider Cari and we ran about 5 miles together (one loop). Our pace was pretty much dead on 9:00/miles, but for some reason I could tell we were still running faster then that. I could also tell she was running stronger then me at this point, but I knew I needed to conserve as much energy as i could for the next loop...

that is pretty much the extent of 'the good race' for me. the last 10 miles were brutal and survival of the fittest.

what's funny about viewing the race that way is that the 2nd loop was actually my fastest one...where I averaged 8:45/mile. I guess my desire to be done with the race got the best of me...and got to me earlier then it should have.

the last loop was where I went on autopilot. don't ask how. nothing hurt, i suddenly wasn't sweating at all and all I heard were my feet hitting the ground...i don't know quite how to explain what was happening to me, but i felt honestly like i could run forever. even in the pain i was in (and i was feeling it in my right hamstring and left ankle for some reason!!!) I kept going. I hung on to my 2:20 pace band and just told myself "Okay, I am on target, just keep steady. Relax. Trust your training."

I had some fast miles (mile 11) and slow miles (mile 10) but overall I ran pretty consistant. Once I got to mile 12 I knew that all i had to do was LIVE that pace band. That meant no walking (I had already walked twice for a couple seconds) and only slow down for water and Gatorade at every aid station. Wow, and I'll never forget how thirsty I was. I couldn't drink enough fluids today.

Thank you's to Strider Frank and the older (and faster!) gentleman in the yellow singlet that raced me the whole race for helping me finish strong, all the Striders and friends who were cheering at the loop turnaround in downtown, and "HI" to Lisa Foronda, Jon Walk, Strider Jen and everyone else who was awesome in this race. Brett, Sam and Edwin were looking good as always-love you guys and always great to see you!

I'm not quite ready yet, but give me a month and bring on that 30K!!!!!!!!!!!

THE STATS:

15.5 miles @ave 9:01/mile
2:19:47 official chip time
19th out of 119 in 25-29 age group!

9:01/first loop ave
8:45/second loop ave
9:01/third loop ave

9:02, 8:44, 8:55, 8:23, 9:36
8:33, 8:59, 9:03, 9:10, 9:32
8:39, 9:16, 9:12, 8:49, 9:23, 4:20 (.5 mile)

2007-11-11T11:45:00.000-06:00

Week of 11/5-11/11 Workouts!

11/6/07: 6 Miles of TH Hills!
total running: 1:27
(20 min wu, 20 min cd)
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cool and breezy
Notes: Not feeling too sore, I had a great workout tonight. I didn't feel like I could finish this one (4 long hill repeats x2-but then repeated for a total of 4 times!) but I did. It was a completly empowering feeling! Overall, a 8+ (out of 10) on effort!

11/8/07: 6 Miles-Speedwork 60/60x8!
1:09 total running
19:50 wu, 16 min sw, 13:58 cd
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cool
Notes: This workout at TH didn't seem tough at all after pushing through that hill workout on Tuesday! Although I didn't feel like I pushed as much as I could (maybe only 7 on effort), I was happy to finish the workout feeling tired and slightly labored. Onward to that 25k on Sunday!!!! I'm ready!

11/11/07: Houston Classical 25k race!
(Please read about it in a seperate race report!)

2007-11-04T16:20:00.000-06:00

Week of 10/29-11/4 Workouts!

10/30/07: 6.5 Miles @ Terry Hershey
total running: 1:11
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cool and not overally humid
Notes: After Sunday's efforts, although not overally sore, I certainly didn't feel like doing any type of speedworkout. So, I ran 4 miles with Striders John DiMarco and Patti Sears (who is in town for a few months coaching at Kinkaid). After that, I still wanted to run more so I met up with the rest of the SMARTies and did a mile of Kenyan Relays (my favorites!) and then a 1.5 mile cool down. I give myself an 'A+' for pushing myself to run 6.5 miles on a day I didn't really want to run at all.

11/4/07: 14 Miles (okay, 13.5) Sealy Dealy-aka-Tough but Doable!
2:07 total running
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: 65 degrees at start. 75 degrees at finish.
Notes: I admit I am not happy with the lack of running this week (can I blame halloween--a little?!) Anyhow, I will give myself credit for doing yoga yesterday! :) So I got up at 5am to make it and meet up with the Striders at TH at 6am (almost didn't make it...thank goodness for that ''2 minute leeway" rule the Coach has). I initally was very excited about running 13.5 miles in the middle of nowhere...and 'rolling' hills on top of that. After I saw the hills, my excitement quickly left. However, this workout was absolutely fantastic for me. It was completely tough-but doable. I pushed through a sore lower back for the first 5 miles and then even harder on the hills during the last 4 miles. I only walked three times (under a minute each time) and never stopped for water (brought my own). This will be my 2007 'benchmark' workout in which all other workouts are based on. I will never forget how it felt to have to push so hard through so much dumb crap and still finish with a smile on my face! (And breakfast at Tony's afterwards was the icing on the morning!) Thanks to Coach Steeeve and Barb for the ride, Allison for encouarging me and I can't wait for our next trip out here!!!

2007-10-28T20:36:00.000-05:00

10/28/07: Houston Half Marathon Race Report!

1:54:47.0.

A MAJOR PR for me today.....wow.

Is a 4:00 marathon really out of my reach this year?!

More shortly...

---

I definetely felt more prepared about this race then I did about the 10 Miler just two weeks ago, both physically and mentally. Two consistant and strong weeks of 30 miles/week helped put me in that frame of mind I think:)

Anyhow, I went into this race well-rested (okay-5 hours, but I napped a lot on Saturday!) and wearing new shoes. I know some of you probably think that new shoes are a bad omen right before a race, but I haven't bought into that way of thinking. (I do believe, however, that new CLOTHES are usually not a good thing before a race!!!) I actually bought the new shoes (well, same as my old shoes, but the newer, unforunetely more expensive model) on a whim that my sore knees and my old shoes (about 330 miles now that I look back on it) were related. Sure enough after this race, I couldn't have been happier on my decision to go with a new race-day shoe:)

I lined up as close to the front as I could comfortably get and stretched and drank a little gatorade I brought with me to settle my stomach (I always have an uneasy stomach on race day!) I didn't feel nervous but I certainly felt determined. 13.1 miles is nothing to joke about. Just think, two years ago, my 'goal distance.' Now, just a stepping stone to longer journies...

Although I forgot my split-pace band, (again!) I knew my main goal was to run consistant 9:00/miles the entire race. However, I knew I always got a slow start at this, so I would settle for negative splits in the second half of the race. I quickly ran into Strider Cari and we setlleed into a very comfortable 9:00/mile pace. Soon we saw Strider Pony and Cari ran to catch up with her. I was happy with my pace, so I stayed behind and took a Carbboom. This was around Mile 3.

That sucker kicked in pretty quick though, and before I knew it, I was arm-in-arm with the two ladies:) We ran a very comfortable pace for about 3 miles together, all speeding up about 10 seconds/mile until we finally got seperated at a the mile 6 water station. I told them that I would slow down and they would catch up with me. However, this never happened. I mean, I am sure they tried to catch back up to me and were running their 9:00/mile, but something WEIRD was happening-I was speeding up!!!

And I continued to speed up! Although I accidently deleted my splits right after the race (URGHHH!) I believe I ran negative splits the entire race! Is that possible?! I am still amazed by it, after the fact...I just ran and ran and ran. What do I say? Attribute it to great weather? A great feeling pair of new running shoes? I don't know. I just ran and ran and ran.

I did start to 'finally' feel bad at mile 10. Almost like clockwork, I think, with the 5k left to go. I wanted to slow bad so much, and I would tell my legs to put the brakes on, and nothing happened. I hammered the 'downhills' and trotted the 'uphills.' People that saw me running said I looked very good and strong. All of the Striders cheering for me had to have helped too:) (thank you, thank you to you all!) I felt like a million dollars.

Around mile 11 or 12 Strider Ruben saw me and started running with me. I just wanted to be done with the race at this point because I have an eye infection and the sun rising from Downtown was stinging my eye soo bad! So yes, if you saw a crazy-looking girl with an orange hat and a towel over her eye, that was probably me! (I don't know how I ran like that, by the way, with one eye covered I mean...haha. I must have been swerving all over the road...)

Anyhow, Ruben just kept my mind occupied and we talked a lot, mostly about trusting your training. I told him I didn't know why I was running so fast! I must have sounded crazy at that point: don't most of us want to run fast?! Why should I question that?! We kept speeding up, and ran mile 13 in 8:20. Wow, lightning fast (to me) although I didn't feel *that* fast. He, Bless his soul, kept me going though. I wanted to walk, I wanted to stop and felt whiny all of a sudden. I even started to hypervenilate because I felt emotional and ready to be done with the damn race. But he said it best--'You've done the Marathon, you can do this!'

I finished strongly, sprinting, and probably with a crazy look of determination and a dumb bit-of-a-smile on my face. And you know what? I don't care HOW dumb I looked. This was absoulutely MY race to run strongly and have such a huge personal best: 4 minutes and 12 seconds:) I still can't believe it! As the famous 'first Boston Marathon' woman K. Switzer once said about her best race (the 1975 Boston Marathon):

"It felt as though the road just meet me."

Next on the bill...nursing my soreness away, getting rid of this eye infection and the 25k in only two weeks! Woohoo! Another PR in store? Hmmm, only hard work and time will tell...

THE STATS:

13.1 miles @ave 8:49/mile

1:54:47 official chip time

8:56/first half average

8:35/second half average

9:02, 9:02, 9:00, 8:44,
8:40, 8:40, ?, ?,
?, ?, 8:40, 8:35, 8:20, .48
(splits I remember)

2007-10-28T13:05:00.000-05:00

Week of 10/22-10/28 Workouts!

10/23/07: 6 Miles by my House
total running: 58:32
ave 9:45/mile

Heart-rate: n/a

Weather: warm
Notes: For some reason my left knee started bothering me and I am not sure why. It could either be from today or it can be from my efforts on Saturday. My legs and head just felt really heavy too. Today was not a good day...

10/25/07: 6 Miles of Smartie Hop!
17:32 wu
18:30 2 miles
18:16 cd

Heart-rate: n/a

Weather: cool
Notes: Today was a better day. Still felt a wierd tinge of pain in my left knee and this was not the workout for me to do, especially with the Half Marathon coming up this weekend. I think it maybe shoe related, as in I am running in an old pair of shoes and I need to get new ones. Yikes, I don't think I have the money for them :( I plan on running easy the rest of the week.

10/27/07: 2 easy Miles in Upper River Oaks

about 20 minutes running
Heart-rate: n/a

Weather: nice but really sunny
Notes: I decided to get new shoes although I know this is not the wisest thing to do right before a (big) race. Running a tiny bit in the new shoes is certainly Heaven...and guess what? My knee isn't bothering me, eureka!

10/28/07: Houston Half Marathon!
(Please read about the race in a seperate race report!)

2007-10-21T15:44:00.000-05:00

Week of 10/15-10/21 Workouts!

10/16/07: 3 Slow Miles-30 Minutes in my Neighborhood
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: warm
Notes: I didn't have a lot of energy to run after Sunday's efforts so I decided to do an easy-peasy three miles in the neighborhood. My legs felt really slow but about 20 minutes into the run they finally loosened up. Then I stopped running:)

10/19/07: 6 Miles @ Memorial Park
57:12 total running
ave 9:32/mile
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cool breeze
Notes: I did two loops of Memorial Park tonight. Not the most exciting of runs, and certainly not the quickest either, but I felt 'good' overall on this run.

10/20/07: 15 Miles at Bear Creek Park!
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: nice
Notes: Wow. 15 miles. I am freakin' beat but I did it. Thanks to Strider Debbie and my feet for not giving up on me. Now it's time to really kick it into marathon overdrive and really get ready for this thing...

2007-10-14T14:34:00.000-05:00

10/14/07: Clear Lake USA 10 Mile Race Report!

To be honest with you, I didn't know HOW I would do in this race. First of all, I can't remember the last time I did a 'proper' long run this Marathon season. Plus I am fighting a mean little cold right now. Plus I only got three hours of sleep before the race. Urgh. Okay, okay, okay--I realize those of all things sound like excuses. The reality of the matter is that I ran pretty decent considering my self-induced situation, and missed a PR by only 25 seconds.

That's right, 25 measily seconds. :

Considering I couldn't even remember what my 10 mile PR was going into this race, I guess I am not too annoyed. It's just...I was sooo sooo close! Anyhow, I managed to get to the race site with about 20 minutes to spare and a little on the drowsy side. This allowed me enough time to get my packet and chip, stretch for a few minutes, warmup for about 5 minutes and then line up for the race. Good thing I didn't have to use the portolets. The lines were pretty long even 5 minutes before the race :(.

I, of course, found myself too far back before the start (AGAIN!!!). About 37 seconds before I crossed the start line...and ALREADY behind walkers and people just out to run 'for fun and health,' I guess. ha...no. urggh. I was on a mission to run hard...and after I finished my Carbboom and drank some Gatorade I brought with me I was ready to run...too bad my legs didn't want to do the same and cooperate. The first two miles felt 'okay' but miles 3-5 felt horrible. At the halfway point when I saw Strider Stacie and Claude, I wanted to quit. Seriously. 5 miles in and my legs felt done.

But...I took another Carbboom and tried to keep up with Strider Mark who had passed me a mile earlier. I knew he would run about a 9:05/mile pace and that's about what I wanted to do. In fact, other then actually finishing the race, my other immediate goal was to finish with a 9:00/mile pace or so (you know, 4:00 marathon....). Soo....I went to work. I started to pick off people to pass. I wanted to pass every 'young' looking girl I saw, and was doing it.

I passed Mark before mile 7. I was starting to feel good and I was starting to pick up the pace...A LOT. I always knew I am a stronger 'second-half' runner, but now I was even feeling suprised. I began passing people left and right and continued to speed up. I felt a little nervous that I was going 'that' fast with over 3 miles to go, but I knew I had to do it.
Mile 8 was at 8:58 and I told myself 'this is it, lay the hammer down and run as hard as possible for under 20 more minutes!'

I kept telling myself '14 more minutes, 9 more minutes...3 more minutes...' It really helped. I was really flying the last half a mile. Well, at least I would like to think I was. I probably was shuffling along pretty bad but with momentum and Carbboom and the thought of finishing fresh in my mind, I went for it.

The clock read 1:31 and I was immediately annoyed although releaved by my hard efforts. I knew I probably came very close to PRing...but how close? I saw Coach Steeeeeeeeve and found out it was 25 seconds close, but 25 seconds TOO slow. Ah well. I just have to go get that PR in two weeks at the Houston Half. What will help me do it? Running smart and hard the next two weeks. And having a game plan on race day...not just showing up and hoping for the best.

Til then-lots of hard work to do-and no more skipping long runs!!!

THE STATS:
10 miles @
ave 9:04/mile

1:30:37 official chip time
9:19/first half average
8:48/second half average

9:23, 9:29, 9:19. 9:16, 9:11
8:48, 9:05, 8:58, 8:43, 8:25

2007-10-14T14:28:00.000-05:00

Week of 10/8-10/14 Workouts!

10/11/07: 6 mile SMARTie HOP
17:12 wu
30:50 cd
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: humid
Notes: This ended up being my only 'regular' run this week due to scheduling conflicts and still being sick :( I mustered through this tough workout though and finished it feeling a sense of accomplishment. Onwards to the 10 mile race on Sunday!

10/14/07: Clear Lake USA 10 Miler!
(Please read about this race in a seperate entry)

2007-10-07T14:01:00.000-05:00

Week of 10/1-10/7 Workouts!

10/2/07: 6 Miles SMARTie run with Lee!
total running: 1:18 or so (with stops)
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cool (upper 70s)
Notes: Since this is the first week of the cross-country Tuesday runs (which, I unfortunately can't do anymore due to my ankles), Strider Lee and I ran together from Memorial to Dairy Ashford and then "around the keyhole" and back to Memorial. The weather was cooling off and nice, and although the rest of the group only did 4 miles, Lee and I did an extra two. A great run and overall a great time, my legs felt okay and only slightly tired after Sunday's efforts!

10/4/07: One Mile Trial with the SMARTies!
Heart-rate: n/a2 mile wu
1 mile cd
6:58 mile trial!!!
Notes: I felt great going into this workout. When I mean I feel great, I mean my legs felt ready to run fast and burn some track up. But, my poor lungs and my poor head were saying otherwise. I just absolutely dread these short distance fast runs-I have simply never been a short-distance running. Even back in elementary school I would opt to do field events or the mile relay (running a 400m leg). Coach Sttttttteeeeeve asked what we thought our times would be beforehand. Surely I could 'easily' run a 7:00/mile, ehhh? But I had to choose a group run with, and I chose the 'Under 7:00/mile' group, knowing full-well I would be last.

I didn't care really--and I just ran my little heart out. My lungs burned the entire time and my legs couldn't go any faster, but knowing I would finish under 7:00 minutes was the greatest feeling in the world. You would have thought I won the lottery:) This was a 1:15 or so improvement over my mile a year ago...woohoo and a big deal! Overall, all the SMARTies did well on their trials and mad props to Vic for finishing under 10:00! Love ya Vic!

10/6/07: 6 SMART miles as part of 15 x 60/60s!
about 1:16 total running
2 mile wu
15 x 60/60's (tough, and BARELY doable!)
1 mile cd
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: super humid!
Notes: This was one of the toughest workouts I have done in a while, primarily because of the horrible humidity we had today AND the fact I am coming down with a cold!!!! It surely scortched me, but somehow I completed those evil 60/60's without walking. Everytime I thought of walking, I would bite my lip, dig a little deeper, and keep on running. Overall, I was happy to finish the ***$ing workout and then we all had a treat of Starbucks afterwards, compliments of the club! :)

2007-09-30T13:58:00.000-05:00

Week of 9/24-9/30 Workouts!

9/25/07: 6 Miles SMART-5x 180/180s
20:00 wu
30:00 of 5x 180/180 (tough, but doable!)
10:00 cd
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: warm
Notes: Ran with the lovely Ms. Hillary. I took a Carbboom before my workout and it kicked in right before the 4th repeat. I felt great on the cool down too.

9/26/07: 20 minute AM Pool Swim!
Heartrate: n/a
400m swim: 13:13
Weather: nice
Notes: This was a short workout but worth it. I swam like a champ wearing my new Speedo tri suit. Not sure if I want to race in it yet because it doesn't have a zipper. However, it's pretty comfty and I only paid $15 for it:). My last swim before the tri!

9/27/07: SMART Hills...all 8.5 Miles of them:)
18:51 wu
4 hill repeats:
9:05, 8:58, 9:11, 8:51
(1 long, 3 short, 1 long and recovery)
23:22 cd
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: humid!
Notes: Wow, a tough workout and I pushed through the entire thing, especially since I didn't think I would be able to do the whole workout to begin with! Yeah to pushing through a hard workout!

9/30/07: Cinco Ranch Tri!
Please read more about this race in a seperate race report entry.

2007-09-30T10:12:00.000-05:00

9/30/07: Cinco Ranch Tri Report!

The quick low-down and my thoughts immediately afterwards:

*This was the first tri (out of 4 that I have done) that I really truly had fun doing!!! I actually smiled on the bike and was grinning ear-to-ear as I finished the run! What a great feeling!

*Adjusting my aerobars perpendicular to the ground was the right thing to do, albeit not the smart thing to do the day before the race. Very comfortable and made me feel fast, even in that sucky headwind.

*Speaking of bike whoas, my pedal fell off while I was putting my bike in the transitition area. Thanks to the kind folks at Bicycle World for fixing it for me! Also, my aerobar tape slipped off while I was riding (very slippery and dangerous, may I add!) and, the biggest thing of all--this race made me realize--

IT'S TIME FOR A NEW BIKE!

I defineitly plan on buying a NEW bike in the next 6 months or so. I can't WAIT! I just need to see how much I can spend... and hopefully I will know this in the next 3 months...

*It was great having so many friends cheering for me during the race. Thanks to all that came out and supported me...and a very special thanks to my Strider babe Hillary who cheered me through the entire race!

*The swim wasn't as bad as I thought it was going to be, even as muddy as it was. I was painfully slow though. As in, wayyyyy last in my weight class. And close to last in my age group too. I've gotta continue to swim in the off season if I want to become stronger for next season, which I want to, may I add.

*I absolutely KILLED the run, even though my right leg had tightened up in my hamstring and I was in some severe (but short-lived) pain. Although Kelly and I agree the run was short, I finished the 3 miles in 24:22, or 8:07/mile!!!! No one passed me at all...and it was the greatest feeling ever finishing sooo strong!

Can't wait for the next season...with the improvements I had in this race (overall in ALL aspects of the race), I am totally excited about next yr!

NOW BRING ON THE MARATHON :)

-
Yes, overall I had a great race and I am happy with the results. Was I the the fastest in the swim and in the bike? No. Was I fastest on the run? No, but I was fast enough to be happy with my performance! :)

I did really enjoy this race though, although i had to wait around forever for my wave (I was in the last wave-with GUYS!!!). Yes, the swim was muddy but not as bad as as the old Cinco swim from what i heard. The bike was 'long' but i really enjoyed the niceness of the course. I felt like I picked up a really good rythmn on the last half of the 19 mile bike. I think I averaged about 18 or so on the last 8-9 miles. The run...well the run overall was good for me other then my damn leg...arghh. mas stretching to do...

plenty of food, friends and fellowship at the finish. As long as they don't change this race around too much next year, I def. plan to do it again. This was a great race for me to end the tri season on. Now go check out the pictures for proof:) http://www.karenthibodeaux.com/Thumbs.asp?BibNbr=856&event=1442

THE STATS:
14th out of 18 women, in the Annie Oakleys
400m swim: 13:24.3
T1-2:33
19m bike: 1:08:01 (ave 16.8/mph)
T2-1:30
3m run-24:22 (ave 8:07/mile)

TOTAL DAMAGE-1:49:51 total

2007-09-23T11:37:00.000-05:00

Week of 9/17-9/23 Workouts!

9/18/07: 3.5 Mile SMART Run + Boot Camp C!
19:04 wu
6:10 for 1200m
4:10 for 800m
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: warm and breezy
Notes: I had to cut the workout short but I was still able to run with Strider Babe Hillary and enjoy the shortened workout I did. Good times!

9/19/07: 25 minute AM Pool Swim!
Heartrate: n/a
400m swim: 13:50
Weather: cool
Notes: I didn't have enough time this morning to swim my whole 30 minutes which I wasn't too happy about. However, the stroke feels better and I swam faster today then normal.

9/21/07: 30 minute AM Pool swim
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: warm
400m swim: 13:30
Notes: I felt awsome today and it's a done deal: I just need to continue to improve and streamline my stroke!

9/22/07: 2 Mile HARRA X-Country Relay!
Please read more about this race in a seperate race report entry.

9/22/07: 6 Mile "Long Run"
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: warm!
Notes: In order to get my mileage in for the day, I tacked another 6 miles at Memorial Park after the X-Country relay. Nothing overally exciting about the run but I actually felt great and my feet were just a 'little sore.'

9/23/07: 1 Hour Bike Ride at MP Picnic Loop
Heart-rate: n/a
15.6 Miles total riding
Weather: hot!
Notes: Wow, I was pretty slow on this ride, I think mainly due to my running the day before.

2007-09-22T11:57:00.000-05:00

9/22/07: HARRA X-Country Relay Race Report!

I went into this race feeling 'so-so.' Okay, so I fully admit it was my fault for feeling that way (and that's NOT okay when I am running a team event!) Anyhow, I ran my leg (leg D-or the last leg) in exactly 17:00. Maybe not my best time on this course, but I felt strong and put forth a great effort. Plus, it wasn't as warm (or should I say HOT) as it was last year or the last time I did this race.

I almost had to run twice since my dear bloggin' Cassie didn't show up (but we are all glad that she is okay!!!) and honestly, i don't think I had it in me to run twice as worn-down as I felt. But, I still put in a great effort overall. And I won a door prize again, thanks to the wonderful Tornadoes...but the scale doesn't work though! :(

THE STATS:

2 miles cross-country
17:00 minutes total
average 8:30/mile

2007-09-16T17:41:00.000-05:00

Week of 9/9-9/16 Workouts!

9/11/07: 4 Mile SMART workout-Kenyan Relays!
11:55 wu
20:00 minutes KR
8:22 cd
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: warm and breezy
Notes: Because of a cool front brought on by a storm serge in the area, tonight's workout was actually pretty pleasent. However, the workout was cut short during the cooldown due to the lightning flashing overhead. The only thing that bugged me about this workout was that this was my only run this week. ARGH!

9/12/07: 5 minute Am Pool Swim!
Heartrate: n/a
Weather: rainy
Notes: i was so excited to get into the pool after Bass Ackwards day but after only being the pool for 5 minutes, I had to get out because it was raining too hard. Oh well, at least I got in the water and was actually on time to work today:)

9/14/07: 2 Hour Lake Sharks Workout!
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: warm
Notes: I teamed up with Houston Racing today and did a 2 hour lake swim. Kenny, our swim coach, worked with me a little to help streamline my technique, and WOW! I ended up swimming much more efficiently very shortly afterwards. However, I still feel 'a little' anxious in the water. Hopefully all of these lake swims will pay off for my tri though. I have one more lake swim left before the big race on September 30th!

9/16/07: 1 Hour Bike Ride!
total riding: about 16 miles
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: really hot!
Notes: Unfortunetly, this was my only bike ride this week. I felt pretty slow and sluggish. And it really didn't help that I rode at 4pm too, when it was 92 degrees! I think it was a great thing for me to get out and do, though. I am really starting to stress over this 19 mile bike ride we will be doing in a few weeks...

2007-09-07T09:36:00.000-05:00

Week of 9/2-9/8 Workouts!

9/4/07: 6 Mike SMART workout-Hill Repeats!
19:44 warmup
27:51 total (3 reps)
18:12 cooldown
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: VERY humid!
Notes: I didn't really feel up to this workout tonight. It was super humid. However, I manned through it. 3 short hills followed by one long hill and then a recovery. I did three of these. Woof.

9/5/07: 30 minute Am Pool Swim!
Heartrate: n/a
Weather: warm
Notes: My technique still feels horrible. I swam about 400m in 14:30. Not too bad though.

9/6/07: 9 Mile Long Run at the Park!
1:27.35 total running
ave 9:40/mile
10:16, 9:50, 10:03, 9:37, 9:40, 9:18, 9:22, 9:14, 9:27
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: humid!
Notes: 9 lonely and HUMID miles on a Friday night by myself...but I did it!

9/7/07: Houston Racing Bass Akwards Tri Day!
3 mile run: 28:28
16 mile bike: 1 hour
525 meter swim: 20:23
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: humid!
Notes: So my first Houston Racing event, and I had a GREAT time! Basically, the event was a reverse tri, with a small amount of rest in between each event. My run was slow since I had ran 9 miles the day before (ah well, I still felt good on it!) The bike was rough since I put a new saddle on my bike and I didn't like it. Yes, I will be taking it back:). The swim was good but LOOOOONNG and I was pretty tired by then so I didn't push myself more. The BBQ and commoderie was fantastic and I even won a 30-scoop Mountain Blast Accelerade, my new best training partner:) Overall, a great training day and I am glad I was able to partake in the good times!

2007-09-01T12:12:00.000-05:00

Week of 8/26-9/1 Workouts!

8/28/07: 6 Mile SMART workout-30/30 Repeats (x15!)!
16:56 wu
15:02, 14:30 repeats ( stopped to get water)
14:36 cd
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: VERY humid!
Notes: My Favorite Strider Hillary and I tackled this one together. The workout only called for 12 30/30's (run hard for 30 seconds, recover for 30 seconds) but I ended up doing 15 for extra measure. It was a great workout overall.

8/29/07: 30 minute Am Pool Swim!
Heartrate: n/a
Weather: warm
Notes: I'm still struggling in the pool...but this is a 'recovery' week for me so I am not going to push myself too much in the pool this week.

8/30/07: 6 Mile SMART workout-Smartie Hop!
19:03 wu
35:29 cd
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: humid!
Notes: This was a tough workout as there were a lot of 'non-running' related exserices we do but then we still did quite a bit of running. Coach Steeeeeeeeve and I ran about 3 miles back together, and needless to say we were cooking it 'a little' for a cool down. :)

2007-08-25T11:24:00.000-05:00

Week of 8/19-8/25 Workouts!

8/19/07: Ironbabe Sprint Tri!

(Please read about it in seperate entry below!)

8/21/07: 6 Mile SMART workout #2-Kenyan Relays!!

22:22 wu,
400m Repeats:
1:57, 1:55, 2:01, 1:47. 1:58. 1:53
16:22 cd
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: nice
Notes: This was the first speed workout that I have done...since last fall I think? But it was a great workout and I pushed myself throughout! Special thanks to Strider Barry for being my awesome workout partner!

8/22/07: 30 Minute AM Pool Swim!
Heartrate: n/a
Weather: warm
Notes: There was nothing memorable about this swim other then I got out and did it!

8/24/07: 30 Minute AM Pool Swim!
Heartrate: n/a
Weather: warm
Notes: I am starting to push myself to swim longer distances in the pool now. I think that my technique is still suffering but I am doing okay with my limited resources (read-no swim coach).

8/24/07: PM Bike and Run Brick Workout!
Total running: Don't know, but about 3 miles..
Total cycling: Don't know, but about 10 miles..
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: humid!
Notes: I decided to not wear my watch today for the entire workout and it was quite enjoyable. All that matters is that I got out here and did it, no matter how fast or slow!

8/25/07: 8.5 Mile Long Run with the Striders!
Total Running: about 8.5 miles
Ave running: 9:28/mile
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: humid! hot! pretty bad...
Notes: This was my first Marathon long run with the Striders. I found a nice group of gals to run with and we averaged a pretty good pace, and only stopping for water a few times. Overall, I really enjoyed this run and the reward afterwards was the HARRA Party in the Park, complete with ice cold beer and plenty of food. Good times for all, and I helped collect some of the awards that the Striders won as a club this past spring! Go Striders:)

2007-08-19T11:17:00.000-05:00

8/19/07: Ironbabe Sprint Tri Race Report!

Quick details:

Wow, another tri...my second of this season. I have to admit, although not having my best swim ever, I didn't give up and I went on to have a decent bike and an awesome run (sub 9:00). I feel like I am finally figuring this tri thing out...30th out of 50 in the 25-29 ain't too shabby...

Things I have learned that I need to make note of for next time:
*Warm-up swim before the actual race
*Wear a tri-suit (already ordered one...will have it this week)
*Take out all jewelry...during racing AND training

Oh and another side-note, I am officially signed up for Cinco Ranch Tri next month and I am also (finally) an official member of Houston Racing Club:) WOOHOO! :)

--

So despite the fact that this race was LITERALLY out in the middle of nowhere (a good one hour drive from where I live in Houston), I was JAZZED beyond belief to finally get to do my first all-women's tri! I got plenty of sleep, hydration, and felt ready to kick some butt...

After stressing over where I was going, I finally got there and checked out the lake...beautiful! I was actually in the first wave which meant that the water wasn't going to be too crazy-murky by the time I got in it. I made sure and lined up in the back of my wave though...but I still felt a little pacnicked when I got in the water. Was it the color of the water (a neon greenish color?) or the fact I didn't get to warm-up in the water first?! Or maybe a little of both...anyhow, I was one of the last out of wave to finish. And I did get passed by several stronger swimmers in the next wave...ughh.

On to the bike...I finally put aerobars on my bike and was able to shave ONE mile-per-hour on my overall bike time. The bike course itself was beautiful and quiet. Only a few turns and it was a double loop course, which meant I felt confident enough on the second loop to pick up the pace alittle. I didn't pass many people here other then the few that were on mountain and hybrid bikes. Overall, I felt okay on the bike, but I'm still not use to the aerobars so I was uncomfortable most of the ride in the saddle. I need to probably readjust them a little...

Going into T2 I dropped my bike (again) in a similar manner to how I did at Jeff and Bredes, read about it here if you want: http://houstonrunner.blogspot.com/2007_07_01_archive.html. Urhh...that slowed down my T2 time a little. But the run is where I knew I would shine. I ate a GU, drank some water, and shook my legs out on the first mile. About half of the run was actually on trails and that felt great on my legs. At the half way point, I began to throwdown the hammer and pick people off to pass. Since I never pass people on the swim or bike, I was really excited to gain momentum on all those that passed me earlier.

I probably got too excited and about a quarter of a mile to go, I was fading quick. Plus, we were running into the sun and the heat was killing me. I had even walked through the two water stops (I NEVER WALK) so I knew I was beat and almost done. As I approached the 'mat' I passed a girl in my age group and slowed down, assuming the race was done!!! I heard myself say outloud "I just want to be done!" and felt tears in my eyes. I felt so bad. BUT I DIDN'T CROSS THE FINISH YET! That was just the announcement mat, lol. I surged ahead after realizing my stupid mistake and sprinted to the finish.

Immediately after I finish, I collapsed. It was really scary because when I fell I thought I was going to pass out or black out. A volunteer helped me to the ground and got me a cold towel. That final kick to the finish wore me out in a way I don't think I have ever felt at the end of a race before. Luckily, after catching my breath again, I was fine. It was a bad moment or two though...

I waited to watch a couple of friends finish and then ate at the post-party celebration. There was plenty of yummy food and drinks. I don't even think they ever ran out, which is what always happens for the later finishers (me included!) I even got a nice massage from the nice folks at Koala! Overall, a great race, although I did learn some more important tips on how to TRI better. And yes, I will be 'tri-ing' again in another month. I couldn't resist:)

One more note: Major kudos to the staff at Ironbabe sports for a greatly-ran (and pun intended too!) triathlon! These ladies (and gentlemen) ran this event so well that you would have never known that this was their first year doing it! Yes, it was a little expensive, and yes, it was far away, but they did everything right. I love my t-shirt and backpack and I will make good use of them to support future Ironbabe events!

Congrats to all the Ironbabes today!!! :)

THE STATS:
30th out of 50 women, in 20 to 29 age group
300y swim: 11:46
T1-2:1811m
bike: 40:27 (ave 16.3/mph)
T2-1:37
3m run-26:49 (ave 8:56/mile)

TOTAL DAMAGE-1:22:58 total

2007-08-18T14:30:00.000-05:00

Week of 8/12-8/18 Workouts!

8/14/07: 17miles (or so) bike at the Park!
Total Cycling: 1 hour
Ave cycling: 17.3 mph
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: humid
Notes: This was a nice fast bike and a good workout to kickstart the week. getting excited about my Tri on Sunday. I have quite a few workouts to pack into this week to get myself ready.

8/15/07: AM 35 Minute Swim!
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: nice
Notes: I really enjoyed my swim this morning. I felt a little 'rusty' not getting in any good quality swims last week, but this workout made up for it.

8/15/07: PM 6 Mile Run by Myself!
Total running: 58:53
Ave. Running: 9:48/Mile
Weather: warm!
Notes: Tonight I got in 6 miles in the neighborhood. It was pretty warm. I walked. A lot. But I guess I can't expect myself to bust out 8:00/mile after not running for almost a week!

8/16/07: First SMART workout...6 Miles to the Rose Garden!
Total running: 58 something
Ave. Running: 9:40something/mile
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: overcast/rainy looking
Notes: Due to mostly incliment-LOOKING weather and a soggy ground, we past up the normal SMART workout at the Park and ran 6 miles to the Rose Garden instead. It was a beautiful and safe run. Not a lot of traffic and I certainly plan to incorporate this route into my normal 'get outta the park' routine.

8/18/07: 10 Hot Miles at the Park on the Bike!
Total Cycling: 36:18
Ave cycling: 16.3 mph
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: humid! hot! pretty bad...
Notes: Since I waited until 10am to bike, it was pretty warm. I was only able to do 10 miles and then call it quits. Overall, I was happy I could cycle even 10 miles, but I have to keep in mind that tomorrow I will cycling almost this "early" also...

8/18/07: 30 Minute Swim (in the Pool)
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: thunderous and stormy.
Not the best weather to be in the pool in...
Notes: My last swim before the tri. I had every intention to go to the lake, but due to stormy weather, I just swam in the damn pool at the complex. Better then nothing. The tri is tomorrow...I can't wait!!!

2007-08-11T16:49:00.000-05:00

Week of 8/5-8/11 Workouts!

8/7/07: 6 Mile Run in Los Angeles!
Total Running: 58:35
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: 70 degrees. low humidity!
Notes: This was my only run this week. But, being on assignment for work means traveling and little free time to relax and workout. However, I must confess that this was probably the single-best run I have ever had on in my life. I don't know how to really explain it...other then you had to be there! :) All I can say is all the elements of a great run were there: strange surroundings, cool and comfortable weather, and legs that didn't want to stop running. Maybe one day I will put into words the feelings I had on this particular early morning run. But all I have to say now is that I hope it doesn't take me another trip out to LA to experience Runner's High like this!

8/8/07: 30 Minutes in the Hotel Pool!
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cool pool...it wasn't heated well!
Notes: This was my only other workout this week, in a small hotel pool that was supposedly heated. Well, it wasn't! I did get in a nice 30 minute workout where I worked on my technique a little (in particular-making sure I cup my hands-pull through the water and lift from the elbow. I think I am getting it...I need more guidance though to make sure I am doing the right thing...I may get a swim coach in the future if I can afford one.

2007-08-04T16:24:00.000-05:00

Week of 7/29-8/4 Workouts!

7/30/07: 6 Mile Run by the house!
Total Running: 56:24
Ave Running: 9:24/Mile
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: humid
Notes: This was my only run this week. Kind of a bummer...but it was a good run.

7/31/07: 20 Mile Bike at the Park!
Total cycling: about an hour
Ave cycling: about 17.5
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: HUMID!
Notes: Finally got on the bike! It felt great and I surely cycled well too. Just need to do it more...

8/1/07: 30 Min Pool Swim at the Pool!
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: nice
Notes: A good swim today...still not fast though. I sure am impatient, lol...

8/3/07: 2 Hour Lake Swim with Houston Racing!
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: warm.
Notes: Although I have psuedo-successfully completed a lake swim in a tri before, I still lack all the confidence in the world to do it again. This organized lake swim was the best thing I could have done for myself. Although I felt really nervous at first, the wonderful members of Houston Racing that showed up made me feel completely at ease. I ended up swimming 3 seperate 300m swims by myself and it felt great. I am not swimming 100% yet in the lake, but at least I know I can do it.

2007-07-28T15:48:00.000-05:00

Week of 7/22-7/28 Workouts!

7/24/07: 5 Mile Run by the house!
Total Running: Today it didn't matter
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: humid
Notes: This was one of 2 runs for me this week. Not the greatest track record, but it's all I have time for since I am going out of town.

7/25/07: AM 30 minute swim at the Pool!
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: warm water..yum...
Notes: A good solid swim this morning.

7/25/07: PM 5.something mile run with the Strider crew!
Running Ave: ?
Total Running: 52 minutes or so...
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: hot AND humid...
Notes: Since there was some construction on Blossom today, we slightly modified our weekly Strider run and with that, made some new memories of our favorite running neighborhood:)

7/26/07: Good 40 minutes Swim at the Pool!
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: warm.
Notes: Because I will be going out of town with work this weekend (with no opportunity to workout), this will be my last workout this week. Again, another week of no cycling :( Hopefully that changes soon! I'm particularily jazzed about this workout because it gave me an opportunity to swim 550 meters without stopping. I CAN DO THIS! Woohoo, a great swim overall.

2007-07-21T17:31:00.000-05:00

Week of 7/15-7/21 Workouts!

7/15/07: JEFF AND BREDE'S TRI!

(Please read about it in seperate race report entry..)

7/18/07: AM swim at the Pool!

Goal: 300meters in 10:03 minutes

Heart-rate: n/a

Weather: overcast

Notes: I had a good swim this morning. However, I am not sure how I swim 'faster.' I am considering hiring a swimming coach. I don't really have the money though...

7/18/07: PM 5.6 mile run with the Strider crew!

Running Ave: 9:19/Mile

Total Running: 52:14

Heart-rate: n/a

Weather: nice (not too humid)

Notes: This was this week's only other run. It was a nice Strider Fun Run that took us out to my beloved Polo Grounds. A great run with Coach Steeeevvvve, great conversations and stories, and a little bit of trash talk afterwards...good times!

7/19/07: 38 Minutes at the Pool!

Heart-rate: n/a

Weather: warm.

Notes: Because I will be going out of town with work this weekend (with no opportunity to workout), this will be my last workout this week (no bike! :(. ) A good swim though...I am getting stronger for sure...but not faster.

2007-07-15T16:45:00.000-05:00

7/15/07: Jeff and Bredes Tri Race Report!

Just the quick and dirty details:

Woohoo...survived my second tri! I suppose NOW i can call myself a real triathlete! :) Finished up in about 1:26 and a little change. About 9 minutes on the swim (better then I thought I would do), 47 minutes on the bike (about the same as what I thought I would do) and 26 minutes on the run (better then I thought I would do).

Overall, pleased, tired and ready to train even HARDER for the next one in a month!

but today and tomorrow are a well-deserved break-MacDonalds (yummy) and some drinks as tomorrow is my birthday and I turn 27!!!!!

--

Now on to the long awaited details :)

Overall, now that I have had time to think/disect about how Sunday went, I am pretty pleased with how I did. Compared to Try Andy's Tri last year (October-9 months ago, read about it here if you would like: http://houstonrunner.blogspot.com/2006_10_01_archive.html), I am in way better shape now.

Just look at these numbers: I had a two minute improvement in my swim this year (although it was pool vs. a lake swim last year...), a 1 mph improvement on bike (damn head wind this year, but I also had a road bike this go around), and a 30 second improvement in the run this year...woohoo (that's really exciting considering that I haven't been running as much as I would like this summer!!!) Those numbers are very encouarging to me. That means not only do I have room for improvement, but at the same time, I AM IMPROVING. And I still have another month until my next tri:)

I didn't have the nerves that faced me at my first tri, which was really nice. I am wondering if it had something to do with the fact Strider Stacie and I had to wait about 2 hours for our time to swim! That was a little irratating. Then, we knew the weather was going to misbehave. It rained on and off HARD while we were in the pool house (indoors). We both groaned...we knew our transition items were totally soaked. Everyone knows how NOT fun it is to run in wet shoes! (oh, and it gets better...)

My swim went okay, I only was passed twice (something I was nervous about for some reason) but I was still panicky-feeling in the water. I had a hard time swimming more then 10meters without stopping or feeling nervous. The whole pool segment to me was just nerve-racking and I wanted to get it over. I need to really get over 'that' feeling though. But it did help me get out of the pool faster.

My T1 time consisted of me draining me shoes. The first part of my bike was in the downpour. Not too bad though, it was nice and cool and I had a nice tailwind that pushed me to 18-19mph during those early miles. THEN the turnaround, lol. I slowed down to anywhere from 14-16 mph. Ughh. It was not fun. Note to self: get aerobars and see if this helps in these times of need, for a comfort AND wind resistant reason...

My T2 was okay, except I dropped my bike. Then onwards to my favorite event-the RUN! mind you, the rain, ohhh the rain had destroyed about a quarter of the run path. It was actually very dangerous (in my opinion) due to the amount of mud/water on certain parts of the course. Maybe next time the course will make 3 loops of the granite loop instead of the muddy park?!

I finished strong with a good 100yard sprint to the finish and ate a few well-deserved slices of pizza. No beer this go around...but I'll get some next time! :) I remember feeling woozy though...and that I never quite felt like I got in a good pace during the race (at any point, except maybe the last mile of the run!) It was a good effort though, and I can't fault that!

Can't wait for my next one...now I have to tackle that extremely scary lake swim though....yikes. Wish me luck!

THE STATS:
15th out of 27 women, in 25 to 29 age group
265 overall out of 380 finishers
swim-9:05
T1-2:33
bike-46.25 (ave 15.1 mph)
T2-1:28
run-26:58 (9:00/M)

TOTAL DAMAGE-1:26.28

2007-07-14T16:59:00.000-05:00

Week of 7/8-7/14 Workouts!

7/9/07: 6 Mile Long Run at the Park!
Running Ave: 9:45/mile
Total Running: 58:30
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: hot and humid
Notes: It's been a while since I have actually ran around the park. I did two loops tonight and that left me plenty of happy.

7/11/07: AM swim at the Pool!
Goal: 300meters in 10minutes (or so).
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: nice and warm
Notes: A great swim overall!

7/11/07: PM 5.6 mile run with the Strider crew!
Running Ave: 9:32/Mile
Total Running: 47:43
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cool breeze (weird, but nice)
Notes: Tonight's Strider Fun Run had excellent (and fast company) and memorable conversations, after which we all ate at JAX's and began to get into Marathon training frame-of-mind! Can't wait, woohoo!

7/12/07: AM 41 Minutes at the Pool!
Swimming Goal: 300 meters in 10:05
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: sunny.
Notes: This is my last swim before my tri. I can't lie and say I am not a 'little' nervous, but I think more then anything I am happy i am 100 times better a swimmer then i was last year and right before my first tri...no complaints here!

7/12/07: PM Brick Workout-10 Mile Bike and 3 Mile Run!
Running Ave: 9:20/mile
Total Running: 28:00
Total Cycling: 42:00
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: hot, humid and no airflow
Notes: After a good and tough swim workout this morning, I really felt I had to get in a brick workout this PM. Hmmm, I was a little bit more tired then I thought. My legs felt 'okay' on the bike but pretty sluggish on the run. The run, in fact, felt like it went on forever...ohhh. Well, a good workout overall, my last one before the Tri!

2007-07-07T13:22:00.000-05:00

Week of 7/1-7/7 Workouts!

7/3/07: 40 Minutes in the Pool!
Goal: 300meters in 10minutes (or so).
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: nice and warm
Notes: A nice swim and a good workout. Everytime I swim...I feel stronger. That's very good, i think!

7/3/07: 7 Mile Long Run in the Neighborhood!
Running Ave: 9:29/mile
Total Running: 1:06:24
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: hot but breezy
Notes: A great run with a lot of energy. although I haven't been running must lately, keeping up my workouts on the bike and swimming have been keeping me in good shape from an endurance standpoint!

7/5/07: 45 Minutes at the Pool!
Swimming Goal: 300 meters in 10:15
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: overcast and rainy :(
Notes: Despite 'less then ideal' looking weather, the pool was open and the weather held out and actually cleared up! Had a great swim overall and looking forward to the next workout!

7/5/07: Short 3 Mile "Neighborhood" run
Running Ave: 9:10/mile
Total Running: 27:30
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: hot but breezy
Notes: Nothing really exciting about this run other then some crotchity-old security guard yelling at me...whatever. Streets are public areas, people!!!

7/7/07: 20 Miles on the bike at the Park!
Cycling Ave: 15 mph or so
Total cycling: 1:19
Weather: hot and 95 degrees!
Heart-rate: n/a
Notes: This was a great ride, despite it being 95 degrees outside. I felt slow also, but I will blame the heat and not getting on my bike as much as I need to. Overall, a graet workout...good hydration and a good amount of energy at the end of the ride!

2007-06-30T13:26:00.000-05:00

Week of 6/24-6/30 Workouts!

6/27/07: Boring 3 Mile Treadmill Run!
Running Ave: about 10:00/mile
Total Running: 30 minutes
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: a/c coolness
Notes: This, unfortuntely, was the ony running workout I was able to do this week. Blame it on auditioning for a rock band or something, lol. A boring run, but it still felt great to run.

6/28/07: AM 40 Minute Swim at the Park!
Swimming Goal: 300 meters in 10:30
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: nice
Notes: Due to staying out the night before, I really struggled with this workout. I was tired, lethargic, and just overall 'not feeling it.' It still felt good to get out and do this workout though.

6/28/07: PM Overcast Minute ride at the Park!
Cycling Ave: averaged 17.5 mph with Wil. but 15 mph overall.
Total Cycling: One hour
Heart-rate: n/a (need to start wearing this!!)
Weather: overcast with nice breeze
Notes: Although I was running a little late, I was able to meet Houston Strider and Houston Racing club member Wil Neff for a nice 10 miles or so around the picnic loop. Not exactly the almost scenic ride...but we certainly had good conversation and this rider built my confidence in cycling a little more. Plus, we were riding at a good pace (I thought) and it was certainly faster then I ride by myself, which was great. Two workouts in one day...good times.

6/29/07: 47 Minutes in the Pool!
Swimming Goal: 300 meters in 10:36
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: nice
Notes: Although I was a little tired from the past two days of workouts, I still had a great workout this morning. The only noticeable difference in this from my workout the day before is that my endurance wasn't as good. I'll write it off as being a little wore-down at the end of the week. Looking forward to a hard week of workouts next week, as I used this week as a 'recovery week.'

2007-06-23T14:27:00.000-05:00

Week of 6/17-6/23 Workouts!

6/17/07: 7 Mile Evening Neighborhood Run!
Running Ave: 9:25/Mile
Total Running: 1:05
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: humid, humid, humid!
Notes: I drank about 10oz of Gatorade in about 45 minutes which left me high and dry for the last part of my run. I felt good overall though-good pace and good spirits. (no, not the drinky-drinky spirits, unfortuntely!)

6/19/07: 45 Minute Swim at the Park!
Swimming Goal: 1:55 for 66 meters
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cool!
Notes: With the help of my swimming devices (I use a kick board and pull buoy religiously) I finally feel like i am getting a decent and efficient crawl. I am still not a fast swimmer...but 'slow and steady wins the race' right? :) I am going to incorporate hand paddles and fins into my next workout and see how that helps also. I think they will help a lot.

6/20/07: Wednesday Night Fun Run!
Running Ave: 9:00/Mile
Total Running: 50:26
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: warm but not unbearable.
Notes: This was a great run that allowed me to catch up with all my Strider buddies yet again. We ran out to Jackson Hill and 'the loop' and then back...it was a good run with great company, Loren, Lee, Abby and I talked triathlons almost the entire time! I am so excited about my Tris coming up (maybe not quite ready yet...but certainly excited!)

6/22/07: 45 Minute Swim at the Park!
Swimming Goal: 300m in about 10minutes!
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cool!
Notes: Because I have to submit an accurate 300 meter swim time next week for my tri coming up, I tested myself today and swam the distance (with minimal stopping) in 10:36 or so. Not the fastest...not the slowest, but I did it! I am going to start to swim and time myself on this distance at least twice in every workout from here on out. I would also like to swim 'further' then this, so I am going to try to swim 500 meters too (again, with minimal stopping). I "feel" like I am getting in shape for the Tri...but we will see as it gets closer!

6/23/07: 20 Miles on the Bike at the Park!
Cycling Ave: 15.4/mph (blah, sloowww...)
Total Cycling: 1:18
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cool and overcast.
Notes: It's been a while since I have rode my bike and it reflected in this ride. I even had comfort issues at the end of the ride with being in the saddle 'that long.' It was a good ride though, and I worked to be efficient on my up-pedaling and fine-tune my gear-shifting a little (still struggle with this for some reason...) Next week I plan to get on the bike twice in one week, hopefully Thursday and Saturday.

2007-06-19T17:46:00.000-05:00

Week of 6/10-6/16 Workouts!

6/11/07: 7 Humid Miles at the Park!
Running ave. 10:19/Mile
total running: 1:12:.14
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: VERY HUMID and HOT! (again)
Notes: I felt better on this run that my last run (6/8), although I ran much slower. I think it’s time to put some new shoes on my feet! Saw my fellow rockstar runner, Sam. :)
Hi Sam....looking good on those 200's!!!

6/13/07: 45 Minutes in the Memorial Park Pool!
swim goal: swam 66 meters in 2:09
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cool.
Notes: This was my first ‘proper’ pool experience this year and it was great. Although I only swam about 10 total minutes of freestyle, I was able to focus on kicking (my weakness) and pulling (my other weakness, lol) and start to get my muscles to work. It was a great workout overall, and not sore after the fact.

6/13/07: 6 Miles Running at Memorial Park!
Running ave. 10:30/mile (we stopped a lot)
total running: 1:03
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: VERY HUMID and HOT! (again!)
Notes: This was my second workout today, and the Wednesday “Strider Happy Hour Fun Run” or "Chips, Chip and the Striders Run" or whatever you want to call it. :) I always look forward to these workouts that occur once a week. There is always a small, casual group of runners, all-paces represented, trash-talking, no pre-determined runs, and my personal favorite, SALTY snacks and ADULT beverages afterwards! Alwaysssssssss the best. Anyhow, we ran to the Polo Grounds and back today. Despite my workout this morning, I had great energy on this run (ask Loren, who listened to me talk his ear off for an hour…) Hopefully I get a bike in sometime this week, maybe with him...

6/15/07: 36 Minutes in the Memorial Park Pool!
swim goal: swam 66 meters in 1:59
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cool.
Notes: Another early morning workout…I actually enjoy swimming first thing in the morning. Not sure why, other then the water wakes me up:). Anyhow, focused on the same things today, and can feel some strength coming to my swimming muscles. Did a few flip turns (mine are horrible!) and decided I am not going to waste any time working on those if I don’t need them for a tri. Overall, a great workout, even if I had to cut it short.

2007-06-09T12:41:00.000-05:00

Week of 6/3-6/9 Workouts!

6/4/07: 45 Minutes in a OverChlorinated pool!
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: overcast, 90 degrees.
Notes: Due to sore calves (I would NOT mention why they were sore...), I wasn't able to run today, and what a bummer. The weather was perfect. Oh well, hopefully the pool rehab (I didn't swim many laps at all) will help loosen them up.

6/5/07: 30 Minutes in a Slight Less Chlorinated pool!
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cool. 80 degrees.
Notes: I still don't feel like I can run without pain so I just worked on my freestyle kick and loosened my calvs up the best I could. It bites that people don't know how to care for their pool properly.

6/8/07: Only Run This Week! 6 #(%Q(Q*# HOT Miles!
Running ave. 9:43/Mile
total running: 58:18
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: VERY HUMID and HOT!
Notes: There is no doubt about it: Summer is officially 'here' in Texas. It is hot. As I attempted to run 6 miles tonight (at 7:30pm, mind you), it was soo hot that I could only run 3 miles without stopping, then run/walk the last three miles. It was worst feeling in the world. I was glad to finally finish this run. (Note to self: bring water bottle on next run over 3 miles.) Hopefully, i 'get use' to the heat soon...or it will be a lonnnnng summer.

2007-06-02T10:56:00.000-05:00

Week of 5/27-6/2 Workouts!

5/28/07: Only Workout this week-3 Miles Running
ave. 10:05/mile
total running: 30:16
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: overcast and rainy.
Notes: 3 miles on Memorial Day...I wish I was going to be able to workout more this week. I did signup for the two triathlons I am going to do this summer...can't wait!!!

2007-05-26T10:37:00.000-05:00

Week of 5/20-5/26 Workouts!

5/21/07: 6 Miles in the neighborhood!
Ave 9:22/mile
total running: 56:16
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: warm.
Notes: Just another run...it's starting to get warm outside!

5/24/07: 5 Miles in the neighborhood!
ave 10:15/mile
total running: 51:17
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: ave 174. max 185.
Notes: Was dehyrated today and that affected my run.

5/25/07: YMCA Masters Swim Practice!
2 hours of swimming!
total swimming: about 2000 yards or so?
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: warm.
Notes: A great workout! I worked on my freestyle and breaststrokes, as well as worked with a kickboard, pull buoy (my new favorite) and breathing. I really need to aim for a consistant roll-over to be more efficient in my breathing. I have a long way to go, but I can swim about 25 yards and feel 'okay.'

5/26/07: 20 miles or so at the Park on the bike!
ave 18/19 mph?
total cycling: about 20 miles?
total time: 1:00.25
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: warm and looming rain.
Notes: Since I know I won't be able to work out much next week (due to an insane work schedule!!) I 'snuck in' one more workout for the week. 20 or so miles on the bike at the Park...it was nice cycling weather and not too crowded (I don't think Friday's ever are though). The only bad thing about the ride is that my cyclo-computer thing wasn't working...so I really don't know how hard I was riding. But it was nice to enjoy the ride.

2007-05-19T13:44:00.000-05:00

5/19/07: I did it! (45) Miles of Pedaling the Prarie!

All I can say is I need a nap very badly now.

And HolyCow...I just cycled over 100 miles this week...nice!

Wow...wow, wow. I believe after today's ride, I am officially addicted to cycling! After practicing with my clipless pedals and shoes last night (and falling over twice pretty hard-while not moving!!!) I finally figured it out:). I got to the ride nice and early and met my riding buddy and co-worker, Marvin, and we got all set to go. I wasn't nervous at all, which was a Godsend, I think.

The ride went off without a hitch (this means it went even better then the bike rides I use to do as a kid!) and I actually was having fun, enjoying the scenery and we were holding a great pace until Marvin got a flat tire about 15 miles in. Okay, we fixed it and went on our way. Then, we got to a major crossroad, and Marvin (unknowing to me at the time-didn't have a map!!) and we turned the wrong way. OOPPSS! So we cycled an extra 5 miles, haha. I guess if I was to get 'lost' it was better to get lost this way with him anyhow.

Up to this point we were making good pace, about 17-19 mph (with a headwind that was slowing us down to about 14 mph at times...). Marvin kind of hit a wall though...and we slowed down a lot. I told him I wouldn't leave him though (what would I do if I got lost or got a flat tire?!) and although we got seperated a few times, we did finish close to each other. It might have taken almost 5 hours (I waited for him for a little while so I didn't cycle that long), but we did it!

When's the next one?! What a great time...

Ave 14 mph

total cycling: 3:30

Heart-rate: 159 ave. 230 max (wow)

Weather: breezy and nice.

Notes: Check out the picture below...enjoy!

2007-05-18T11:04:00.000-05:00

Week of 5/13-5/19 Workouts!

5/14/07: 30 Miles on the Bike Today!
Ave 16 mph
total cycling: 1:44
Heart-rate: 159 ave. 179 max.
Weather: warm.
Notes: This is the bike ride I am doing this Saturday: http://www.pedalingtheprairie.org/
....God, please grant me serenity and the strength to do this...I am so nervous about finishing it that I would almost rather run a Half Marathon in the 90 degree Houston heat...almost.
WISH ME LUCK!

5/16/07: 35 Miles on the Bike Today!
Ave 17 mph
total cycling: 1:55
Heart-rate: ave 162. max 185
Weather: warm.
Notes: I am feeling pretty good about the cycling thing. But, my feet are killing me. I need to get cycling shoes and clipless pedals, no doubt about it. Can I do this before Saturday...hmmm.

5/17/07: 5 Miles by my House!
Ave 10:17/mile
total running: 51:27
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: humid.
Notes: This was a slow run...but after two hard cycling workouts this week...it felt really good. I am eager to get back on the bike though, I got new clipless pedals and cycling shoes I can't wait to use on Saturday! Plus I got a cute new jersey to wear...can't wait for the ride!

5/18/07: 3 More Miles of Running Before The BIG RIDE!
Ave 10:00/mile
total running: 30:20
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: warm.
Notes: Def. excited about tomorrow...!

2007-05-12T16:30:00.000-05:00

Week of 5/6-5/12 Workouts!

5/9/07: 5-and-some-Change Striders Fun Run!
Ave 9:55/Mile
total running: 49:38
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: warm.
Notes: Still hurting today, but the few days off as a recovery helped a lot. Had a nice dinner at Jax afterwards. Remember, we run so we can eat and socialize:)

5/10/07: 20 Miles on the Bike!
Ave 15 mph (slow!)
total cycling: 1:19:27
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: nice.
Notes: Since I decided I am going to do a bike ride next week (5/19), I decided I have better hop on my bike and start getting ready. Hope I will be ready. I am doing a 45 mile ride and I have never ridden more then 15!

5/11/07: 3 Easy Miles by the House!
Ave 10:00/Mile
total running: 30 min.
Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: warm.
Notes: Felt fine running today after yesterday's bike. Just a little sore in the hamstrings though (weird...)

2007-05-05T16:24:00.000-05:00

Week of 4/29-5/5 Workouts!

Please note: Since I simply CAN NOT make time to do individual journal entries for each workout anymore, I will be combining a week-at-a-time entries into one entry. Of course, race reports will still be seperate.

5/2/07: 6 Miles at Home
Ave 9:36/mile
total running: 57:41
Heart-rate: 161 ave, 180 max
Weather: warm.

Notes: I have shin splits from my race effort the other day...so I took it easy today. This will be the only run I do this week. :(

2007-04-29T16:15:00.000-05:00

4/28/07: Bayou Bash Relay-Spring 2007 Edition!

After stupid traffic issues, I arrived in plenty of time to participate in the race:) I didn't think I was going to make it, but I did. I found my team members (I only knew Strider Whitney but I had talked to Rodney a few times so I knew who he was).

I ended up running third, which was fine, other then it being pretty warm. I thought I was well but as it turns out, I only averaged about 8:25/per mile for the 2 miles. That was kind of a disapointment, but I haven't been running much lately so i guess I can't ask for more.

I did lose my key though and get shin splits after this race...ughh, and oh well, I still had fun, got to see my Strider buddies and Hillary is the best friend a girl can have...thank you, thank you, thank you a million times over, girl!

The Stats:
2 miles

Ave 8:25/mile
total running: 16:50

Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: humid but cool

2007-04-27T16:11:00.000-05:00

4/26/07: 5 and half miles by the House!

Got my tush out the door for 5.5 miles today. Felt good to run...felt even better to be done:)

The Stats:
5.5 miles

Ave 9:29/mile
total running: 52:10

Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: nice.

2007-04-26T15:35:00.000-05:00

4/25/07: "It's Been Awhile..."

After going out of town for a business trip and not having an opportunity to run AT ALL (I mean, seriosuly!) I finally made it out on a run, and this one was with the Striders on our usually Wed. night stride.

It was great fun although I felt slow and sluggish. I guess not running for almost 10 days will do that to you...back to the grind.

The Stats:
5 miles

Ave 9:54/Mile
total running: 49:34

Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: nice.

2007-04-17T15:29:00.000-05:00

4/16/07: Park and Polo Grounds Run

This is probably the last time I will run more then 8 miles until after summer, so I made the most of it. I didn't run very fast, but I sure enjoyed nature and the run and everything this run meant to me.

The Stats:
9 miles

Ave 9:47/mile
total running: 1:33.02

Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: warm. humid.

2007-04-15T15:25:00.000-05:00

4/14/07: A Saturday "Long" Run

I ran 6 miles this evening on what was an usually warm day. Well, at least I got out and did it!

The Stats:
6 miles

Ave 9:26/mile
total running: 56:41

Heart-rate: ave 168 max 181
Weather: warm

2007-04-12T11:33:00.000-05:00

4/11/07: An Abnormal Wednesday Night Run?

Today was the next-to-last race in the HARRA spring series-the LP Run. Rather then meet up with the normal Strider crowd, a few of us met up at our spot and ran to St. Thomas to go watch the LP Run in action. If you aren't familar with this race, it's 33:20 of running around a track. That doesn't sound that exciting, but it really is fun to watch!

Santos and I enjoyed watching Bessie, Helen, fellow blogger Sarah and even Lisa Foronda (hey girl!) make their rounds around the 400 meter track. I had a lot of fun cheering for them, and even more fun chasing Santos back to the Park! Overall, a nice night and mark my words-I AM running the LP run next year!

The Stats:
4 miles

Ave 8:34/mile
total running: 34:16

Heart-rate: 161 ave, 190 max
Weather: cool, humid with breeze

2007-04-10T00:36:00.000-05:00

4/9/07: Memorial Park/Polo Grounds Long Run!

I enjoyed 8 nice and QUIET miles on my favorite run today. It was pretty humid and my body was still a little tired after my efforts on Saturday. This wasn't my fastest long run in a while, but it sure felt good to jsut 'run.'

The Stats:
8 miles
Ave 9:28/mile

48.07 to PG, Mile 6: 9:09,
Mile 7: 9:13, Mile 8: 9:17

Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: humid.

2007-04-07T10:32:00.001-05:00

4/7/07: Do-Da-Du, My First Duathlon!

More later (I'm more exhausted from this then a tri...) but I finished strong, AND won my age group with 1:22:39 or so! Yeah to my first one-YOU NEVER FORGET YOUR FIRST!!!

--

Although I was pretty nervous about this (and why should I have been?) This was a very low-key race (only about 60 participants!) and an opportunity for me to get my ‘du-feet’ wet without getting in the water, lol.

I had a hard time getting to the start line/race start and so did everyone else, it seems. After finding a parking spot and carrying my bike across Memorial Drive at 7am, I was ready to go. Lucky for me, (in my infinite nervousness, I had forgotten to bring any gloves) and Strider Barry saved the day. It was pretty chilly and I was going to need them. I decided on tri shorts, tech tee and my long sleeve zip pullover to wear. I knew I would warmup on the first run and get rid of the pullover at Transition 1.

Barry and I checked out the transition area and the start line. This was going to be a little bit of a cross-country run it seemed. No biggie, just don’t roll my ankles, I told myself! After about 10 minutes of stretching and waiting, it was time to start. The race was so extremely low-key, everyone was relaxed and laughing/joking around and this put my nerves at rest. As the race started, I was actually having fun!

The run wasn’t as cross-country as I thought it would be…it was actually 'easy,' sans the downhill at the beginning and the uphill at the end! It was a bummer to see the leaders pass me on the way back though. I ran slower then I had planned to…just really warming up and saving ‘something’ for the bike and second run. The transition was quick since I didn’t change shoes and I just drank water.

The bike…ah the bike. How to put it nicely? SUCKED. Not because I didn’t spend enough time on it, but because it was windy as all get-up! Half of the 10 mile bike was into a headwind that even the leaders seemed to struggle with. You could see the pain on people’s faces as they biked toward me on the 2-loop course. Ouch, ouch, ouch. The headwind was most certainly evil, and in comparison, made running and finishing the Bayou City Classic 10k a piece of cake. The tailwind was sure nice though. The six 180 degree turns weren’t fun either. Eepp. Two things to work on for my next Du: quicker turns and shifting gears.

The second run started kind of crazy. My second transition was quick, but because my legs took a big beating on the bike course, they felt horrible. It took about 3 minutes of running to ‘shake out’ that bad feeling. Those of you that have tri’ed or du’ed before know exactly what I mean. But after the feeling went away, I took off the cycling gloves and went for the Gold. I told myself ‘I can run 2 miles in my sleep…let’s GO!!!’

I made it a goal to pass 5 people on the run…and I did! I kept speeding up as I passed each person. People that had completely wiped me out on the bike (And I mean I got passed by EVERYONE it seems on the bike!) were struggling with the run…so I just kept pushing faster to pass them. It felt great. Although the last uphill climb didn’t feel great…the finish line (that I almost missed!) and the water waiting for me made the finish very sweet. Plus I passed a girl in my age group by mere seconds right before that uphill climb. Cool!

We enjoyed delicious lettuce wraps afterwards and June and Steve sweetly waited to see Barry and I get our awards for placing in our agegroups. Neither of us had much competition, but it was still nice to be recognized for our efforts in the brutal weather! I am so totally hooked now…the Du was the funnest race I think I have ever done (okay, not a word! But that’s okay!) and I definitely plan to do another, maybe as soon as next month in Webster. (3 Mile Run, 17 Mile Bike, 3 Mile Run).

This means I need to train even more (especially on the bike!) but it’s very ‘duable.’ Plus, all the cycling is making me really excited about getting back in the pool again…it’s almost that time again--I am contemplating all the fun Tri’s that are coming up in July/August! YEAH!

The Stats:
2 Mile Run, 10 Mile Bike, 2 Mile Run
Total time: 1:22.36

18:29 Run1/.45 T1/44:41 Bike/.50 T2/17:49 Run2
Ave pace: 8:48/mile—13.6/mph—8:29/Mile

Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: wooo! windy and about 50 degrees or so. Cold.

2007-04-05T14:29:00.000-05:00

4/4/07: Strider Run and Chip Power Hour!

At least that's what I think Coach Steeeeve was calling it...Tonight's run was the perfect opportunity to run (okay, the BIG reason why we were all there-but not the ONLY reason!), catch up with old friends, and eat and drink to our hearts content!

The run itself was nice...saw my Strider girl Hillary and ran with her for a while. We hadn't seen each other since the Marathon so we had an awesome time catching up (talking more then we were running, I think!) Santos, Carlos, Ryan and Stacy, June and Marianne (although they didn't run with us since they ran earlier) , Loren and Lee, Will and Chip and probably a million others I forgot were also there. It was the largest Wednesday night fun run in a while no doubt!

Then we all hung around for adult beverages, tons of chips and more trash talking! I was able to meet some new Striders as well and have a beverage, although my stomach was still bothering me from earlier in the day. All in all, a great time and PERFECT weather! go out there and enjoy it...12 miles on the bike and 3 miles running tomorrow for me...weee!

The Stats:
5.6 miles

Ave 9:13/mile
51:38 total

Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: upper 60's, 40% humidity

2007-04-03T14:25:00.000-05:00

4/2/07: A Humid 7 Miles in the Park!

I can’t honestly remember the last time it was this humid…okay, I am being overally dramatic. I think it was last October or so when it last felt this humid. I sweated, and sweated, and sweated. And those of you that know me, know I don’t really sweet thhhhhhat much. But I didn’t drink much water either and that probably didn’t help the situation.

I think after about 30 minutes in the weather, I felt toasted. It had rained about 4 hours prior so there were huge puddles everywhere on my way out to the Polo Grounds. I did notice more runners on this route then usual though…My shoes got slightly soaked and muddy, but nothing too terrible.

I decided to hammer the last 2 miles as fast as I could (once I got back to the park) without feeling like I was going to pass out. IT felt nice. I finally feel like I am back to my pre-marathon fitness levels. I’m ready to start doing weekly speed workouts again and racing with some level of confidence/competiveness. Next up? Do-Da-Du on Saturday!

The Stats:

7 miles
Ave 9:20/mile

1:05.25 total

46:45 PG
Mile 5: 9:11, Mile 6: 9:28

Heart-rate: n/a

Weather: humid, maybe 100% humidity.

2007-04-02T13:44:00.001-05:00

4/1/07: 3 Quick Miles on the Treadmill!

After enjoying my rather lazy Sunday and passing up on an opportunity to bike again, I only had time to run 3 miles on the treadmill. Was it fun?? Ehh, but due to carbo-loading at my favorite Asian cusiene, PF Changs, I defientely had some spunk in my step and ran fast.

Looking forward to 7 miles on Monday, 5 on Wednesday, and 3 on Thursday. Still plan to bike 12 also, probably on Thursday as a brick workout (bike then run).

The Stats:

Total running: About 30 mins
3 miles

Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: nice a/c :)

2007-04-01T13:39:00.000-05:00

3/31/07: 15 Miles on the Bike in the Rain!

So I finally got in ‘the long ride’ I have been wanting to do for a while. In anticipation of the ‘Do-Da-Du’ that I have signed up for that is next Saturday, I rode 15 miles on a rather lonely Saturday evening. I was the only one out at the Picnic Loop, and it was awesome, even when it started raining. It was pretty dark though, and the cops actually checked on me one time to make sure I was okay. Yup, no worries here!

Anyhow, I tried to ride ‘as hard’ as possible, while being efficient in my pedaling, which averaged about 15-16 mph…slow! But, I am already faster then I was riding on the old bike! It felt good…and I gained a lot of confidence that night. I am really looking forward to my race now, although I am still nervous…I plan to get in at least one more bike before the race, hopefully 12 miles.

The STATS:
15 miles on the bike

Total riding: 58:34
Ave: about 15mph

Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cool but rainy.

2007-03-29T12:45:00.000-05:00

3/28/07: Striders Wednesday Night Fun Run!

It was too nice of a night to pass up a fun-filled Strider Wednesday night run at the Park. We did the same route as last week-Park to Jackson Hill-Around the Loop-and Back for about a total of 5.6 miles. (I am guessing it is this much-anyone care to confirm/deny?) Strider Chip was there as well as Will (who is letting me use his road bike right now). It was a good time of fellowship, racing (Loren and I tied-I think?) and getting eaten by mosquitos. Looking forward to seeing Coach Steeeeeeeeeve next week-he is sorely missed!

The STATS:

5.6 miles total running
Ave 8:45/mile

Heart-rate: 165 ave/196 max
Weather: 70 degrees, humid but breezy

2007-03-27T17:13:00.000-05:00

3/26/07: Long Run on a Monday Night!

I did my same Park-Polo Grounds run as last week as it gives me a little elevation change, cross-country terrain, and difference in running surfaces (grass to trail to asphalt). Plus, hardly ANYONE runs this route, which makes it probably the most serene part of my week, and a welcome change of quietness.

Anyhow, I ran harder tonight then last week’s long run effort, although I forgot my gu and resorted to chewing on two pieces of sugary gum instead (and I did notice a difference—especially since I was lacking the electrolytes!) I am looking forward to the rest of the week’s workout schedule: Wednesday run with my Strider friends and then Fri bike/run brick, Sat bike and Sunday bike. Hopefully I am racing next weekend (and no Bellaire 5k this weekend due to work schedule conflict :( )

The STATS:

9 miles total running (maybe more)

Ave 10:04/mile

Heart-rate: n/a

Weather: 100% humidity, small showers.

2007-03-25T16:55:00.000-05:00

3/24/07: Short Brick Workout!

My first brick workout of the new year…and a testament of my (lack) overall fitness and shape I am in right now. I am not saying that I am in ‘bad shape,’ but I don’t think I will be ready to do a duathalon anytime soon. I still have a few days to decide so I will just see how my biking goes later this week…

I biked about 10 miles I am guessing, if not more. My stupid bike computer ceased to work again…I am tempted to buy another one, although I don’t plan to spend much money. If anyone has any suggestions for one to try, let me know. I did a sort of interval workout by my house since I was avoiding the Park…1 mile hard and 1/10th of a mile recovery, I think I did about 10 of those. I didn’t keep track, I just went for time.

After a short 5 minute break/stretch/get water, I went for my run. My only goal was to run for 40 minutes, or about 4 miles. This is pretty close to what I will be going for the Do-Da-Du (only it will be 2 mile x-country run, 10 mile bike, 2 mile x-country run in that order). Right away my legs had that ‘jelly/still on a bike’ feel. It took about 10 minutes to get over that…not good! I need to do more bricks, for sure…

9 Miles on Monday and I hope I can get in two bike workouts next week…and maybe two the following week. Will I be ready?!

The STATS:
10 miles cycling
4 miles running

43:53 on bike
40:06 on feet

Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: cool and breezy

2007-03-22T16:44:00.000-05:00

3/21/07: 5.6 Miles with the Striders!

Tonight was the Wednesday evening ‘Fun Run’ as I like to call it, where we decide on the route and the pace based upon whomever shows up to run. Usually it’s just two different routes: The polo grounds (4.5 miles) or Jackson Hill (5.6 miles). Since I haven’t ran to Jackson Hill in a long time, I pushed for the group to go there. And off there we went!

The small group of us (Striders Chip, Loren, Carol and a new Strider-Steve I think) and a few others made the grand voyage out. Once we got to the Hill, we decided to run some more, and ran the Hill loop and then called it a night. It was nice other then the fact I stopped for water at every water fountain (3 total). I guess I was a little dehydrated, and I did feel a little sluggish with my breathing (due to allergies, I think).

The weather was a little warm and humid, but the cool breeze came over us, and that was nice. Overall, it was a nice, relaxed run and great to see some friends I haven’t seen since the Houston Marathon! Up next? 3-4 miles on Friday followed immediately by 15 or so miles on the bike (my first brick of the season!)

The STATS:
ave 8:43/mile

5.6 miles total
48:54 total running

Heart-rate: n/a
Weather: warm, 60% humidity, breezy though.

2007-03-20T17:46:00.000-05:00

3/19/07: 9 Long Miles at the Park!

As I normally don't like to do long runs during the week, but my schedule has kind of worked it out to where these runs will have to be on Mondays, at least until Marathon season begins again...

anyhow, 9 miles tonight at the Park. as much as I would like to have let my legs take me and run fast...that wasn't the case. I felt slow, sluggish, and maybe even a little tired. I really hope it wasn't due to Saturday's race efforts! (I don't feel any soreness or ill effects from racing at all...) I'll just blame the humid weather!

It was a relatively nice run though, as I ran to the Polo grounds and back and around the Park a little. There weren't many people out tonight so I felt like I kind of owned the Park, and that was a good feeling. Not looking forward to this weekend when the Art Crowd takes all of our parking and I have to stay as far away from the Park as possible! :(

Hope to get in a few miles with the Striders on Wednesday and then some biking on Friday and Saturday. I am contemplating doing 'Do-Da-Du' on April 7 and it's a 10 mile bike...yikes! I have better get going. I can't remember the last time I biked 10! (maybe my last tri!) Anyone else looking to do it? Sounds like it will be fun!

The Stats:
9 miles or so
1:36.33 total running

Ave 10:43/mile (slowwwww!)
57.07 for first 5.5 miles, 9:29, 10:19, 10:04, 9:32.

Weather: humid. breezy, lower 70s
Heartrate: n/a

2007-03-19T11:44:00.000-05:00

3/17/07: Lookin’ Good 10k Race Report!

I really felt good about the effort I put into this race. I ran confidently throughout, and hardly felt tired or ‘slow.’ And I was able to finish in my sub-9:00 goal per mile that I set for myself! What a great feeling!

The race field itself was on the low side-think Bellaire Trolley numbers. I think there were maybe 300 runners in both the 5k and 10k. The 10k course was just two loops of the 5k. At first, I really wasn’t looking forward to the two loops, but as I ran the first loop, I memorized where the mile markers were for the second loop. This really helped me on the second loop and gave me confidence to pass people as part of my running ‘game plan.’

I ran really strong throughout and there were about 4-5 separate times in the race where I felt like my ‘old self’ again, and my running felt fast, effortless, and strong. It was such a good feeling. I think as I continue to get back in pre-marathon shape, this feeling is likely to come back more. Plus, not being injured is a really really good feeling.

Post-race, I enjoyed a green beer (nothing says hard-core St. Patty’s partying like green beer at 8:30 in the morning!) and hung out with the Strider clan of Pony and John Yoder, Peter Prescott, Andrew and I think I saw Fred Miller too. We all enjoyed the wonderful early Saturday morning and another great day of racing in Houston!

The Stats:
6.2 miles

53:55 watch time (no chip timing)
Ave 8:40/mile :)

8:44, 8:51, 8:41,
8:51, 8:35, 8:26, 1:43

Weather: mid 60’s. low humidity.
Heartrate: 180 ave. 212 max.

2007-03-16T15:33:00.000-05:00

3/15/07: 3 Miles of SPEEDWORK at Memorial Park!

Yup. You are reading correctly. I am actually updating my blog in a timely basis (or at least attempting to!) I am also back to doing speedwork! Two bits of good news in one day-does it get better then this?!

Anyhow, I had a wonderful run at the Park yesterday...a 1/2 mile warmup, 3 miles at 5k speed (well, as close to it as I am going to come right now) and a 1/2 mile cooldown. It was so fun to run-run-run as fast as I could go. And not hurt, other then maybe my poor lungs that are out of shape still. It was a major plus though that my body is feeling great, pre-marathon great I would say.

On the downside, it was hot. (80 degrees doesn't make for good speedworkout weather). But I felt like a million dollars after my workout. Then I got home and promptly passed out. :)

I think I will be in good shape for this weekend's Lookin' Good 10k. Although the course is a double 3.1 loop, it is extremely flat and a 7:30am start time should be another plus. It probably won't be a PR, but if I can go Sub 9:00, I won't complain!

One other thing, I just found out via Jon's blog that I was the 4th overall open women to complete the HARRA Fall Series this past season. Bragging rights? Nah...but something to be very proud of! I hope to do it again next year (and maybe...someday break into that top 3!)

Happy running all!

The Stats:

3 miles speedwork
1 mile warmup/cooldown

26:41 for 3 miles
ave 8:53/mile

8:56, 8:59, 8:45

Weather: 80 degrees (warm!!!)
Heartrate: 185 ave. 199 max

2007-03-13T11:19:00.000-05:00

3/12/07: Memorial Park Long 8 Mile Run!

After pedaling about 10 miles (I'm guessing-more on that in a second) yesterday here at the Park, I figured now I would get in a nice 8 mile run too. I wasn't too sore from the bike so I figured I needed my run! (actually, my lower back was a little tight, but that was it). My only goal for this run was to enjoy it and run relaxed, yet not SLOW.

I think I was a little 'slower' then I would have liked, but it doesn't matter really because I thought my form was good and I didn't feel any aches or pains, even towards the end of the run. I did need to drink more water though. Overall, I am pleased with my efforts.

The bike ride (Sunday) went well also. Although it was just a 'casual thing' with Ash, I figure we got in about 10 miles. (My bike computer wasn't working...although it started working right before I finished riding!) I got up to about 18.5/mph without trying, which was pretty much the top speed I could get on the old hybrid bike. Good deal! I hope to start riding much more and try to do a DUA next month...I'll keep you updated...

THE STATS:
8 miles total

1:17.29 total running
ave 9:41/mile

9:24, 9:53, 9:30, 9:33,
9:36, 9:32, 9:39, 9:57

Weather: close to 100% humidity, mid 60's
Heartrate: n/a

2007-03-11T11:15:00.000-05:00

3/10/07: A Short 3 Mile Recovery Run!

It was early in the morning and before I went to go teach, I fit in a short 3 minute run. It sure was humid and warm, with a small threat of rain with all the dark clouds looming in the sky.

In other workout-related news, I finally have a road bike on loan from my kind friend, Will of the Houston Racing Club. I plan to take it for a spin in a few days...and I'll update on my venture into the world of road bikes!

THE STATS:
3 miles total
About 30 minutes

Weather: humid, upper 60's.
Heartrate: n/a

2007-03-05T11:08:00.000-06:00

3/4/07: My 5 Mile Long Run for the Week!

Since I didn't have the luxury of time on my hands, I squeezed in a 'quick' 5 miles at the park. But guess what, I forgot my watch! And you know what? It was the most relaxing run ever.

Since I didn't want to do the hamster loop (haha) I ran along the granite path starting at Mile 0, towards the West Loop, and onwards to the Polo grounds! It was so very devine. Running to my most sacred running spot, on the weekend--noless, with absolutely no running companions or company to distract me along the way, absoluelty beautiful weather and no watch to be a nusiance.

This run should go down in running history:)

I love this time of year....

THE STATS:
5 miles total
About 50 minutes???

Weather: breezy. mid 60's.
Heartrate: n/a

2007-02-27T10:56:00.000-06:00

2/26/07: 9 Miles at Memorial Park!

Since this was the only run I would be able to do this week (again, other crazy week like this--ahhh!) I got in 9 at the Park tonight. For some reason, I felt very relaxed and ready to tackle this long run, but my pace was slow and I didn't feel like I had a lot of kick.

Well, at least I got it done and I think I see an improvement in my running life soon. I def. feel motivation coming back slowly and surely. Afterall, I took the first step again of venturing out to the Park:) It's been awhile...and it's great to see all of my old friends!

THE STATS:
9 miles total

1:33.35 total running

ave 10:23/mile (yikes!)

Weather: humid. 60's.
Heartrate: n/a

2007-02-24T13:07:00.000-06:00

2/24/07: My First Race since the Marathon-The Rodeo Run 10k!

Considering that I am sick with a cold, haven't been training as well as I like, and didn't sign up for this one until yesterday, I thought a time of 57:35 wasn't too shabby at all....

--

It was actually raining at the starting line and I figured that this year's race would be a repeat of last years. (Scattered showers throughout! Cold rain too!) but that wouldn't be the case this time, thank Goodness. Oh, parking was a breeze and that was a big plus for this race. Plus the fact the race had a 9:40am start time!

Even though I lined up near the 8:30 minute pace marker, of course there were HORDES of walkers in front of me and I hated weaving around them. It totally was going to waste all my energy. I felt bad most of the race...not tired or sick like I was worried about, but more weak and congested (partly due to the humidity). Mile 2 was long I think...my split was 10:00!

The dumb Eleysian aqaduct killed me at mile 4-5 and I was so thankful for the finish line I could have kissed it. I didn't walk at all the entire race and actually picked up speed at the end of the race. My watch misbehaved so I don't have actual mile splits, but I did get my two 3.1 mile splits. Okay, I was actually slower by 11 seconds the second half of the race, but at least I found that energy to finish strong. I was about 3 minutes slower then last year's race though!!!

Saw Steve Bezner and his awesome costume afterwards and ran into JuneBug and Strider Barry. On the bus ride back to the start line (the course is point-to-point), I met some other Houston Marathoners which was refreshing and got me excited about running again. It looks like I am in some post-marathon funk, and I can't wait to get out of it!

THE STATS:
6.2 miles total

57: 35 official chip tme
ave 9:16/mile

first 3.1: 28:42
second 3.1: 28:53

Weather: humid, wet, upper 60's?
Heartrate: n/a

2007-02-24T10:39:00.000-06:00

2/23/07: Lost Run #13…

SIDENOTE: Please note that I shall refer to the next month or so of running as the ‘lost runs;’ the runs that were short, boring, and had no influence or baring on the quality (if any) of my training…

The weather is a little more humid then I would like, which means tomorrow Race isn't going to be that much fun. I hope I see a bunch of old friends. This will be the first 'social' event I have done since the Marathon.

THE STATS:
3 miles total
About 30 minutes

Weather: humid
Heartrate: n/a

2007-02-22T10:35:00.000-06:00

2/21/07: Lost Run #12…

SIDENOTE: Please note that I shall refer to the next month or so of running as the ‘lost runs;’ the runs that were short, boring, and had no influence or baring on the quality (if any) of my training…

I decided I am going to run the Rodeo Run on Saturday. Despite the fact I haven't ran more then 6 miles since (the marathon?) I am going to continue the tradition of the 'hangover run' and hopefully not pass up or throwup at any point. I just hope I finish in under an hour.

THE STATS:
3 miles total
About 30 minutes

Weather: nicer
Heartrate: n/a

2007-02-17T10:33:00.000-06:00

2/16/07: Lost Run #11…

SIDENOTE: Please note that I shall refer to the next month or so of running as the ‘lost runs;’ the runs that were short, boring, and had no influence or baring on the quality (if any) of my training…

Since I was traveling a lot with work this week (and yes, I know, a lame excuse) I didn't run but this one day this week. Hopefully as my hectice life settles down a little, I can make a schedule of some sort.

THE STATS:
6 miles total
About 1 hour

Weather:another nice but humid day

Heartrate: n/a

2007-02-11T10:30:00.000-06:00

2/10/07: Lost Run #10…

SIDENOTE: Please note that I shall refer to the next month or so of running as the ‘lost runs;’ the runs that were short, boring, and had no influence or baring on the quality (if any) of my training…

This 6 mile run finished out my mileage for the week-a whooping 12 miles. Not impressive and I look forward to getting back up to 20 miles/week, and maybe starting to actually train for something.

THE STATS:

6 miles total
About 1 hour

Weather: nice
Heartrate: n/a

2007-02-09T10:28:00.000-06:00

2/8/07: Lost Run #9…

SIDENOTE: Please note that I shall refer to the next month or so of running as the ‘lost runs;’ the runs that were short, boring, and had no influence or baring on the quality (if any) of my training…

Since it was wet outside and late, I ran on the treadmill. Yuck.

THE STATS:
3 miles total
About 30 minutes

Weather: a/c
Heartrate: n/a

2007-02-07T10:26:00.000-06:00

2/6/07: Lost Run #8…

SIDENOTE: Please note that I shall refer to the next month or so of running as the ‘lost runs;’ the runs that were short, boring, and had no influence or baring on the quality (if any) of my training…

I managed another run outside since it was nice outside. Woo!

THE STATS:

3 miles total
About 30 minutes

Weather: mid 50's
Heartrate:n/a

2007-02-05T15:44:00.000-06:00

2/4/07: Lost Run #7…

SIDENOTE: Please note that I shall refer to the next month or so of running as the ‘lost runs;’ the runs that were short, boring, and had no influence or baring on the quality (if any) of my training…

It was too nice outside to pass up a run so out the door I went. Good overall run. Slow though.

THE STATS:
6 miles total
About 57 minutes

Weather: lower 60’s?
Heartrate:n/a

2007-02-04T15:43:00.000-06:00

2/3/07: Lost Run #6…

SIDENOTE: Please note that I shall refer to the next month or so of running as the ‘lost runs;’ the runs that were short, boring, and had no influence or baring on the quality (if any) of my training…

50 minutes on the treadmill is no fun…luckily I needed to blow off some steam so the time went by quickly.

THE STATS:
5 miles total
About 50 minutes

Weather: a/c
Heartrate:n/a

2007-02-01T15:11:00.000-06:00

1/31/07: Lost Run #5...

SIDENOTE: Please note that I shall refer to the next month or so of running as the ‘lost runs;’ the runs that were short, boring, and had no influence or baring on the quality (if any) of my training…

On the treadmill. It's rainy outside.

THE STATS:
5 miles total
About 50 minutes

Weather: a/c
Heartrate:n/a

2007-01-28T15:17:00.000-06:00

1/27/07: Lost Run #4…

SIDENOTE: Please note that I shall refer to the next month or so of running as the ‘lost runs;’ the runs that were short, boring, and had no influence or baring on the quality (if any) of my training…

This is my long run for the week…I didn’t really have motivation to anything other then this today anyhow. I guess you can say I have the post-marathon running blues…little to no motivation;(

THE STATS:
6 miles total
About 57 minutes

Weather: mid to upper 50’s?
Heartrate:n/a

2007-01-25T15:04:00.000-06:00

1/24/07: Lost Run #3

SIDENOTE: Please note that I shall refer to the next month or so of running as the ‘lost runs;’ the runs that were short, boring, and had no influence or baring on the quality (if any) of my training…

30 minutes inside on the treadmill. Ugh. It’s still cold outside.

THE STATS:
3 miles total
About 30 minutes

Weather: a/c
Heartrate:n/a

2007-01-23T15:01:00.000-06:00

1/23/07: Lost Run #2…

SIDENOTE: Please note that I shall refer to the next month or so of running as the ‘lost runs;’ the runs that were short, boring, and had no influence or baring on the quality (if any) of my training…

30 minutes inside on the treadmill. Ugh. It’s cold outside.

THE STATS:

3 miles total
About 30 minutes

Weather: a/c
Heartrate:n/a

2007-01-21T15:01:00.000-06:00

1/21/07: Lost Run #1…

SIDENOTE: Please note that I shall refer to the next month or so of running as the ‘lost runs;’ the runs that were short, boring, and had no influence or baring on the quality (if any) of my training…

30 minutes inside on the treadmill. Ugh.

THE STATS:
3 miles total
About 30 minutes

Weather: a/c
Heartrate:n/a

2007-01-20T14:55:00.000-06:00

1/20/07: My First Run Since the Marathon!

I honestly KNEW I wasn’t going to be able to NOT run for longer then a week after the marathon, and I was sooo right. And this run meant the WORLD to me although it was ‘just’ on the treadmill. It meant…I am alive, I am a runner, a MARATHONER, and life goes on after running 26.2. It feels good to be moving again, and I am not THAT sore after the fact…

THE STATS:

3 miles total
About 30 minutes

Weather: a/c
Heartrate:n/a

2007-01-18T13:20:00.000-06:00

LOOK-LOOK: 2007 HOUSTON MARATHON OLDIES BUT GOODIES!

I have taken the last few days of not running to do several things: RELAX! Most importantly and recover. I feel almost 100% and back to my old self four days after the big race, and almost good enough to start slowly running again. I will probably run an easy-slow 3 miles tomorrow to see how everything feels, but I think I will be okay. I got a massage yesterday and I think that really helped. Other then extreme pain in my IT bands and tight hamstrings, everything felt really good to get worked on.

I made a list of things I learned before, during AND after the marathon, and while they are fresh on my mind, I would like to share them. I learned beforehand from Mr. Sean Wade that you should never try to make up a miss split in the next mile. If you still feel good after mile 18 or so, start to bump up the pace then. I also learned to stay relaxed and have fun. Easier said then done, but it was a good reminder, because in the ‘heat of the race,’ I needed to be reminded of both of these things.

I learned during the marathon that I can’t waste energy early in the race, especially in the beginning with the hype of the cannon and the crowds around the GRB. I also learned how important it was to have support on the course. My men Ash and Wes saved my *@# by refueling me with food and drink both early and late during the race. Plus having my friends watching and cheering for me was such an emotional boost when I really needed it. And it never hurts having your name on your shirt!

I learned after the marathon that I should listen to my body better when it comes to pain. The tightness I had in my legs during my last run on Wednesday should have been a ‘red flag’ that something was wrong. I am not sure what it meant, but I am quite positive this affected me on race day. Possible causes: lack of hydration, lack of stretching before and after running, ??? I will have to stay on top of this before my next Marathon. This killed the 4:00 hour marathon finish I was going for. I also learned that I sweat A LOT during a marathon. I may change shirts during the marathon next year or at least wear my number on a racebelt so I can change shorts or shirts easily while on the run.

On to more positive things, memories of the race. I have to admit I don’t remember many minute details of the race anymore. I have a bad long-term memory that I need to work on improving. I do remember silly things though, that I figure I wouldn’t remember, like the lady with the HUGEEEEE pink flamingo and the really hairy dude with no shirt on. I also remember how supportive the crowds were through West U (my favorite crowds, by far) and the line of dudes peeing in public during the first few miles of the race.

I also remember that I hardly talked to any ‘strangers’ during the race and how delicious the beer was at mile 24. I drank almost the whole thing like it was water, yummy and tasty. I remember how silly I thought the belly dancers looked and how awesome the Bubbles truck was (it really made bubbles). I also remember high-fiving a few kids and eating an orange slice towards the end of the race since I needed the distraction, although citrus and I don’t mix well at all (it makes me sick to my stomach).

Lastly, I remember passing by some TNT runners that had their patients pictures on their backs and how it made me want to cry and want to thank them for what they were doing. I also loved the people that had a sense of humor, such as the guy that had the ‘Single girls, catch me if you can’ written on the back of this shirt and all the TV news crews everywhere and feeling light as a feather as I crossed the finish line. It still makes me cry thinking about it that single-most important moment right now…

Now for the tid-bits:) Here are my splits from the Marathon folks:

Start: 7:01:42am
10k: 58:52
Half: 2:04:49
30k: 2:59:20
Finish: 4:19.37

Clock time: 4:22:05
Pace: 9:54

Placement:
Overall-2395
Gender-613
Divison-104

And here are my BestBuy updates:

00:58:52 @ 10k, pace 9:28. predicted 4:08:11
2:04:48 @ Half, pace 9:31. predicted 4:09:30
2:59:20 @ 30k, pace 9:37. predicted 4:12:07
4:19:37 @ Finish, pace 9:54.

Here are some cool graphical info sheets on me:
http://www.runpix4.com/hou07/ge.php (bib#6135)

Here is my finish line video:
http://www.marathonvideo.com/houston2007/
(I almost take the photographer out on camera2 angle!)

Here are my race photos:
http://www.brightroom.com/find.asp?CAT=SPORTS&EV=RECENT
Click on ‘Houston Marathon’

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WOooo…tired and yet ready to get back to running! A nice 5k and 10k PR are yearning to be earned this spring and TRI season is right around the corner! Let's go!