Running in Hingham

11s….. and Life is Crazy

2012-02-10T08:35:00.001-05:00

Jessica from Pace of Me tagged me almost two weeks ago in the Elevens game that has been going around the blogworld. I kept looking at it thinking, “I need to get back to blogging". I have not been blogging at ALL lately, due to a variety of factors.

(1) I have spent all my time since January 1st reading college applications on the computer as this is my real job. I love reading applications; it is such an interesting experience.

(2) This means I hate the computer when I come home, so I used my IPhone or IPad to read blogs. Thank heavens for google reader! But, I hate typing on BOTH of those.

(3) My son is teething right now and driving me crazy with it. I feel so bad, but I feel like there is little that I can do.

(4) I have not been running all that much because…. I am not running Boston this year. I am VERY sad about this, and it was a hard decision. But, it was the right decision. More on this to come…. I will be there all race weekend though, as I live 30 minutes or so from the finish.

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So here are the Eleven things. I will not retag anyone to do it as I am so late to the game here.

11 Random Things About Me

(1) I dated my husband for six years and two deployments before we were engaged, and then we waited a year and a half to get married. Everyone thought we should have engaged and married sooner, but we have been together in periods where other friends have met someone, gotten married and then divorced.

(2) I attended an all-female high school. I loved every minute of it, and some of my best friends are still from those years.

(3) My first job out of college was as a high school religion teacher at my all female Catholic high school. I am probably a bit more spiritual and religious than most people realize. This may be due to the fact that I attended a Catholic institution from first grade through graduate school.

(4) I was on the varsity sailing team when I was in college.

(5) Figure skating was my sport of choice growing up, and I competed. I have videos to prove it. No wonder I love spandex so much!

(6) Baking may be my favorite hobby. I don’t have as much time to do it as I would like, but I religiously read Annie Eats. (You should too- she has such great recipes, and I am inspired by her. She is a doctor, mom of two and has such a great blog with all sorts of recipes, not just baking.)

(7) My home is not decorated well at all. I have no knack in that area, in fact I have no knack in style what so ever. This is a shame about my home though, as my little sister is a buyer for Home Goods.

(8) Nantucket is my absolute favorite place in the world. If I won the lotto, I would buy a house there even before I set aside money for the important things.

(9) When in Paris for work, I ran the Eiffel Tower to Versailles race. It was the experience of a lifetime.

(10) I wear eye makeup every single day. In fact, I even run marathons with it on.

(11) I almost never ever watch TV. When I run on the treadmill, I usually watch some news show.

Jessica’s Questions

1. Do you collect anything? If so, what and why?

I have an extensive collection of cookie cutters. But, I do not use them nearly enough.

2. A friend is visiting your town for the first time. Where would you take him/her and why?

If this is a running friend, we will go to World’s End. The entrance is a mile from my house, but I do not go there nearly enough.

3. Lucky number? Is there a reason behind it?

29 should be my lucky number as I was 29 when I was married and was married on the 29th. But, I only just thought of that now.

4. What is your favorite inspirational quote?

Right now it is this

5. Were you a tomboy as a kid?

Yes and no- I rode big wheels and climbed trees, but wore dresses while doing so.

6. What is your best childhood memory?

I had a rather good childhood, so I cannot think of just one!

7. What is the best advice your parents ever gave to you?

You get what you get

8. What is your dream job and why?

I would love to be able to read applications part time and then teach fitness the other time. I have not been teaching Spinning since my husband started his new job, and I miss it terribly.

9. What is your go-to joke?

I cannot even think of one! So sad!

10. I love trivia - what is your favorite random fact?

Again, brain in overtime- at a loss here!

11. Where is the farthest place you have ever traveled to? Would you go back?

It is either Istanbul or Sao Paolo. I have been back to Istanbul, and I would definitely go back to Brazil!

Oh, yes, I have a blog???? And how I have kept running not boring

2011-12-20T14:07:00.001-05:00

Now that my crazy work season has wrapped itself up until January, I can get back to the other parts of my life that allow me some creativity for a bit. The month of December is absolutely crazy for me professionally, and then with all the holiday obligations and such, I need to be in bed after all my chores are done…. no blogging, tweeting, etc. Just sleep!

I did manage to get my Christmas cards out and will shamelessly tell you that I did not even design them myself. My friend Stephanie, who also photographs baby Jack for me, did. So much for taking time to be creative! But, she is wonderful. If you are in Massachusetts and need a child photographer, I suggest that you check out her site- http://www.stephaniebeth.com/. She is amazingly talented!

The picture is off the card from my Iphone so please excuse it. To see the original picture, it is in the below post which embarrassingly is from almost a month ago.

But, this is a running blog and not an excuse blog, so let’s get to it. My running has been tame. Normally at this time of year, I am prepping to start Boston training, but I am not quite there. Most of my runs have been leisurely and fun. What have I been up to? Keeping running fresh, that is what! How have I done this?

(1) Not wearing my Garmin: truth be told, it started because it was dead and my charger was in my desk at work. And then, I kept forgetting to take it out of my desk. My dog Cisco hates the Garmin, because its beeps annoy and hurt his ears. Thus, I charge it at work. However, I grew to appreciate the break. Coincidently, Lauren of Health on the Run wrote a great post about reasons to ditch the Garmin. Check it out!

(2) Running with friends: Another Lauren who I know from running club lives near by me in Hingham. She and I have not wanted to venture to Boston, so we have been running in Hingham. She is training for the Houston Marathon right now. Is anyone else jealous that she will be there for the trials? I could swoon thinking about it. On the point though, I have always wanted Hingham running buddies, so I am excited to have some!

(3) Running with slower friends: I have also been running with my friend Elle. Elle is a bit slower than me, but her attitude about running is 20x better than mine. Every run with her is a destination. We have done a long run including six miles on the sand at low tide in Hull that the below picture gives a somewhat feel for. Running on the beach in the winter is so peaceful.

We have also ventured into our local statepark which has been awesome. Full confession- I am not a state park girl and would never run in it alone. But, with others, I am not freaked out. But, Elle runs to run and not for speed. We just chat and take it the surroundings. I love it. This experience has given me a whole new appreciation for running.

(4) Run on the treadmill while watching the Patriots: Enough said there, right! And I should include run on the treadmill while watching the Ironman World Championship on my I Pad.

(5) Running my normal loops backwards: I love this one because I don’t know exactly where the first mile is going backwards. Most of my loops are 5.7 or 4.3 miles- weird numbers. With no Garmin, I am just focused on running and not how far I have gone.

Hingham Turkey Trot 2011

2011-11-24T12:13:00.001-05:00

The Turkey Trot has become an annual tradition for me. I honestly do not remember how many I have run, but I did run it last year when almost 8 months pregnant. Needless to say, it is a race that I do not miss.

I am NOT in 5K shape right now…. or really any racing shape for that matter. I had a great great 8 miler last week. It was awesome and reaffirming. But, I was still not committed to racing this race at full speed.

I lined up at the start today after a short little warmup, but I honestly should have arrived earlier. It was SO crowded. Terribly so! I could not get anywhere near the middle, never mind the front. Full disclosure- I am fully supportive of ALL types of runners. And, I do not deserve to be on the front line of a race. I have not earned that! But please, if you plan on run/walking the first mile, do not head towards the front.

My first mile took me 8:20ish because it took me a bit to get over the line as the gun went off and then I was weaving weaving weaving. And then I realized, I needed to just race comfortably hard. I needed to not worry about my time- I even covered my Garmin with my sleeve. I just pushed hard but not so hard that I was gasping. And guess what- it worked! I finished in 23:40. This means I ran in the 7:20s BY FEEL for the final two miles. Maybe I am doubting my abilities a bit? Granted, I only had to hold it for 2 miles, but I honestly was not dying out there.

And now, a shameless “My kid is so cute” picture. Because he is =)

Remembering how I became a runner

2011-11-02T21:13:00.001-04:00

Tonight I had an easy run on my schedule. Just 25 minutes easy. For us that marathon, this run is typically harder than seeing a 20 miler on the schedule. Is 25 minutes even worth it?

Honestly, I did not want to do it. I had zero motivation except for the fact that my only physical activity had been my two short walks with my dog. So, after I put the baby to bed, I hopped on the treadmill at 7:35 PM. I was glad to be there, and honestly, I appreciated this run by the end of it. And, it was not simply because Jillian’s Yoga Meltdown was causing some delayed muscle soreness from yesterday’s tape.

When I ran my first slow mile of 9:20, I recalled when I first started running. I had joined a gym a few months prior and gained the courage to try the treadmill, which was a huge leap from the elliptical. Then, I made it a habit to run one mile after my elliptical workout at 6.0 (which is a 10 minute mile). For the first month, that one mile I ran was HARD. But, I kept at it, and running became easier as I became stronger. And the rest is history.

Moving along and putting life in perspective….

2011-10-30T21:28:00.001-04:00

Okay, I am getting over myself finally. Two weeks later, I am finally ready to put Bay State 2011 behind me. Thank you for your very nice comments. They all mean SO very much to me!

I still have no clue if I stressed myself out or had a virus, but looking back, I can highlight a few things that probably caused me some stress that day.

First, I HATE HATE being late…. so arriving to the marathon so close before the start was so very stressful to me. For me, I was not relaxed at ALL when I started running.

Because I was stressed out, I simply was not in the right frame of mind from the start. I could not put myself in the zone that day. In my best races, I just go. There is complete flow, and I just zoom as what feels right. Very little thinking is involved. Bay State 2011- I was thinking WAY too much. Was my husband getting bored while I was running? Was he able to handle the stroller and the dog? Why was I not in the zone? Why did this feel hard?

I also think that my timing with my marathon was slightly off in terms of my work schedule. The week before the race, I had just returned from a two week work trip to Europe. We left for Nantucket the next morning and spent the rest of Columbus Day weekend there. I then came home and threw myself into mothering Jack and Cisco the dog, being a nice wife (as I had left my husband with them for two weeks!) and catching up both in the office and at home. Needless to say, I wore myself into the ground the week before the marathon, mentally and physically.

This is where I started to put many things in perspective. I realized that I am placing a LOT of stress on myself right now. Although life being crazy and hectic is all about perspective, my life is a little bit much for me right now. I work full time and probably do 90% of the household work. My husband is awesome, but simply is not domestic. Also, I am crazy about what we eat, and he would order takeout every night.

Next, on average, I am commuting three hours a day. Between drop offs for child and dog daycare and getting to work, it takes about one and a half hours to go 25 miles. And then, I turn around at the end of the day and do it all over again. Realizing I managed to train for a marathon while living this life made me appreciate myself a little bit more and cut myself a little slack.

I also need to let my working mother and working wife guilt go a little bit. My perspective was that I did not want my husband and son to feel any crunch by my busy work schedule. But, I finally realized that this is not possible. My life with work is busy, and it will affect my ability to mother and be a good wife. And, because I was so crazy with this idea, I put some of the things I like to do aside. I needed to change that. This past week, I was creative with baking, making Halloween cake-pops. I love to bake and give to others. This project was a great outlet! I went to hot yoga multiple times and bought the Jillian Michaels’ YOGA MELTDOWN DVD. I took the time to not just read blogs this week, but to actually comment. I made time for me and I feel refreshed.

Okay, I am a little recentered. Not quite there yet, but aiming for it!

Bay State Marathon 2011

2011-10-20T14:53:00.001-04:00

I trained so hard for this race. And, I did not deliver the results that I know I can achieve.

Now that I have started the blog post on that ominous note, here is the bright side.

I was stressed, I was sick and I did not quit. I have never wanted to quit a race so badly at various points, but I never did!

My bad karma started the day before the race. A few months ago, I put my IPod shuffle through the washer and dryer. It may have been clean, but it was broken. As a treat to myself, I decided to splurge and buy a new shuffle. After charging it, loading it with songs, I tested it. AND IT DID NOT WORK! I normally do not run a marathon with music, but this course is small and does not provide the entertainment of the big city, so I thought I might need it.

I moved on, went to bed fully NUUN hydrated, and woke up at 4AM and puked.

What? I just got myself back to sleep thinking it was a fluke.

I woke up at 5 AM, fed myself, the dog, the baby and the husband and then we all loaded in the car headed to Lowell. We arrived exactly 22 minutes before the start. I needed to pee and get in the corral, but first we needed to move my crew to the start. I am practically in tears and on the edge as I am stressed by this. But, my husband was here to support me so I did not want to take it out on him.

I make it to the start with a few minutes to spare and the gun goes off.

Mile 1: 7:59

Perfect for what my goal is

Mile 2: 7:49

Mile 3: 7:45

Mile 4: 7:51

Mile 5: 7:50

Mile 6: 7:56

Does anyone see where this is headed?

Mile 7: 8:01

(Here, we headed across a very wobbly bridge- it reminded me of running in a bouncy house)

I saw there was a water stop coming so I took my GU.

Mile 8: 8:22

Here is when I threw up the GU because the water stop was tiny and I missed getting any liquid. In retrospect, I should have turned around for it. But, this is how I learn.

Mile 9: 8:16

Trying to get my head back in the game

Mile 10: 8:07

Mile 11: 8:23

Mile 12: 8:22

Mile 13: 8:50

My husband told me he would find me near the half, and I never found him. Mentally, I was demoralized and also demoralized that I had to run another loop. (It was a double loop course.) I totally wanted to quit here.

Mile 14: 8:47

Mile 15: 8:30

Mile 16: 9:08

Mile 17: 8:57

Mile 18: 9:37

Mile 19: 9:14

Mile 20: 9:06

Mile 21: 9:41

Mile 22: 9:44

And during this mile, I threw up again. A lot! But, I actually did not want to quit because I was running on some random state highway in Lowell. I just wanted to be done!

Mile 23: 10:19

Mile 24: 11:26

Mile 25: 10:28

Mile 26: 9:48

Mile 26.38- 3:53

Needless to day, I am still super disappointed with my race results. I went out a few seconds too fast at the beginning, but I really truly believe that I trained to run a much faster race. For heavens sake, I only ran one minute slower at Boston when I had just had the baby less than 3 months before!

However, I cannot change that I was sick. I am unsure if I had a virus, or if it was stress, or what it was. I have no idea.

This splits are definitely up there with how not to pace a marathon (or any race), but I assure you that I had trained to rock the race. I worked so hard all summer. Like my friend said, some days we have runs where it all clicks. Other runs just feel miserable. I just happened to chance upon the latter. I worked for every minute of the race and worked so hard to not quit. That I am proud of!

I have lots of other thoughts….. but I think I need to process them a little bit more. They may involve the morning I had before the race- not relaxing.

Wordless Wednesday- Falling Asleep While Eating

2011-09-21T07:24:00.001-04:00

Who Loves to Run Almost 21 miles?

2011-09-20T21:51:00.001-04:00

Me! That is who!

I ran my longest run since Boston this past year on Sunday.

20.4 miles in 2:56:26

High 8:40 miles??? (I cannot remember what the Garmin said)

It did not kill me. I felt good. I even picked up the pace a few times as part of the plan my coach had for me…. and that did not feel that hard. I ran the next day. I ran 7:55 miles tonight, two days later. And, I have a sinus infection and an ear infection. (Better me than my baby!)

I HOPE I am not jinxing myself.

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On Thursday, I begin two and a half weeks of travel. First stop, New Orleans, a city that I absolutely adore. My sister graduated from Tulane in 2007, and I grew to love the city and all its debauchery and revelry while she was there. NOLA also has a place in my running history, as I ran the Mardi Gras half marathon the February after Katrina demolished the poor city. (And, my race recap was published in Runner’s World!)

However, I am part of a panel at a national conference, so I will not be celebrating my return by planting myself at Pat O’Brien’s.

Then, onto the big Europe trip. My traveling buddy Courtney runs as well, so we will run our way through the continent while we represent our schools.

Oh, and, did I mention the big guilt I have leaving my three boys at home? BIG!

Three Things Thursday

2011-09-15T16:12:00.001-04:00

Wow! I am blogging twice in two days. And, stealing other bloggers ideas for Three Things Thursday

(1) I have been so sick all this week and am finally getting better. Who gets a cold in September?

(2) My cold apparently went to my head when writing my last post. I was doing repeats at 5K pace but not 5K repeats at that pace. I would die at that pace for multiple 5Ks!

(3) I am psyched to do my 20 miler this weekend. Pumped actually!

Over a Month Without Blogging

2011-09-14T16:50:00.001-04:00

Wow! It has been over a month since I have blogged. Needless to say, I have been busy. My husband was away for an entire month, leaving me, the baby and the dog at home alone. I did manage a weekend away with him during this time in Charleston, SC. I also did do my long run on 15 miles on a treadmill. I had never watched the Kardashians so the ladies and Bruce kept me highly entertained during this time.

The whole family (minus poor Cisco the dog) then headed to Washington, D.C. for my husband’s final two days of work. There were 11 of us down there. While all the people were not conducive to eating dinner, there were many people to watch Jack. So, I ran a lot in the three days I was down there. I love running around the monuments.

The Vietnam Wall- We saw my father’s friend’s name- =(

The Entrance to the World War II Memorial

The Lincoln Memorial

The Washington Monument in the Distance

Notice the lack of the reflecting pool!

My MIL and 4 grandchildren at the Capitol

Good Luck to us trying to get them to look!

Now, I am back into the full swing of things with work. I head to NOLA next week and pretty much leave for Europe right after…. for work, not for fun. But I am sure I will find some.

And running- well, due to pushing the jogging stroller probably, running is finally turning the corner. It is so much easier when I am not pushing it.

Case in example- today I had 5K repeats on my plan. I had to split up the run into two because Jack woke up. Half on the treadmill, half outside with the stroller.

I did not want to do the 5K repeats with a stroller, but I had no choice. At least half of them were done.

Ones on the treadmill- I put the treadmill on 8.6-8.7 which is sub 7

With the stroller- 7:22 average on the repeats

At least I know I can go somewhat fast with that stroller!

Finally, a cute picture from today

Enjoying the September day

Nantucket Vacation

2011-08-08T21:16:00.001-04:00

I am back to reality. I had a great week in Nantucket. My husband was only able to go with me from Friday through Sunday, as he began a new job and has training in Washington, D.C. He is super important like that! Seriously, so proud of him, but that is a whole other conversation.

My little sister (who is 26 and not really little) took vacation for the week and entertained us. This situation was awesome as she was able to babysit Jack when I went for my runs that Mary had written into the plan. Despite being on an island, it was so very humid and hot, even at 7 AM. But, these were my views.

Yes, it was heaven. I just love Nantucket.

We also had lots of social fun.

And beach time!

We enjoyed ourselves to say the least.

And then I came home and faced reality. First up, 14 miles with the last 6 at an 8:20 pace. And, it was rainy and humid during the run. But, I did it somehow. The only thing I attribute this is the fact that I am a good direction follower. This is why I have a coach.

Today I went back to work. I swear, it was almost as hard as going back after maternity leave. When I went back in April, I hated leaving him because he was so little. I felt awful because he needed me. Today I felt horrible leaving because he is so much fun now. I need him now!

Back on the Blog Bandwagon

2011-07-07T20:30:00.001-04:00

Well, I fell off the blog bandwagon pretty hard, as I have not posted in almost three weeks. Some of that was a busy life, some of it was not having anything positive to say and some of it was not wanting to put my stress out there. It would just make it more real!

But, before I recap the past few weeks, a BIG HUGE thank you to all the supportive comments on my last post. I have done well with cleaning up the eats. I followed the advice to try fruits among others. I really appreciated the mental boost!

Here are some pictures from the past week.

Sqauntum 5 Miler- Just over 41 minutes, and I ran it with Leann. The plan was not to go out fast as I had Hingham July 4th race just a few days later. With the heat, humidity, hills and 6:45 PM start time, we certainly did not! I honestly don’t think I will do this race again. I did not like the late start at all, and I hated the last part of the course. We basically had to run a square and then run through a true trail that was narrow to finish. But, it was fun to run with Leann as I have not since she left me in her dust at this year’s marathon!

July 1st in the Office- Mark, my colleague, and I styling for America’s birthday

Jack’s pictures with Stephanie Beth Photography- so very cute

Jack’s first fourth of July

I also ran the Hingham 4th of July race and did not have the race I intended to….. but the good thing is that my first mile was an 8:07 and my last one was a 7:13. Good for distance, but not good for short races! The best part of the race was that my husband ran it with a giant American flag…. yes, he held a flag for almost 5 miles, after never practicing with it before. He is pretty awesome!

Dreaming....

2011-06-14T09:07:00.005-04:00

I read Elizabeth Waterstraat's blog this morning and a paragraph in her post hit home:

Within weeks of giving birth, I was already dreaming. Of where I wanted to go athletically. Starting over. Where would the story end? You always write your own ending. Mine ended in Hawaii. Why? Dream big. And a very hormonal, post-partum girl can dream, right? Someone told me, the year after pregnancy go big. You’ll need something wow to motivate you, something big to make the sacrifices worth it, something out there that seems so impossible that you, as a driven athlete, will be compelled to work hard to make it possible.

While I do not have any athletic dreams of Hawaii, I had visions of that blue and yelllow finish line on Boylston Street. I had crossed that line four times already, but I really wanted it in 2011, mainly to prove to myself that I could do it.

I ran 3:54 this past April, and I am slightly ashamed to admit that I was a little dissapointed in myself. I know many would love to run a sub 4 marathon, but I ran 3:36 last year and knew that I am capable of more. But that day, I honestly gave everything that I had.

So now, I dream big. I have a fall marathon on the schedule, and I am working with Mary to lay the base to run a solid marathon this fall. I love running right now. Just love it! But, I need a few other building blocks to achieve my goals.

In order to do this, I need to be more accountable to myself. I love running, but I have been sorely slacking in other areas. Since returning to work, I have not been to hot yoga, and its absence is hurting both my flexibility and core strength. It is true that I have little time to get there, but I need to find the time. I am certain that my little butt injury that sidelined me for three weeks was an indirect result of this. Even if it is JUST once a week, it will help!

I also need to clean up my eating. I am constantly craving SUGAR lately. It is so bad! But, I know that this crazy craving is not helping me lose those last pounds. In order to be fast this fall, I need to be a bit leaner and also need to give my body more nutrients.

So there it is, my plan to get to October. Let the dreaming begin!

Commitment

2011-06-07T20:55:00.001-04:00

Since the marathon ended, I have struggled with my running goals. Finishing the marathon in one piece so soon after having Jack was the end goal. Unlike previous years, I knew I could not place time pressures on myself as my training season was so abbreviated. Post-marathon, I was excited for training, continued on with Mary, and then promptly injured myself doing nothing. Three weeks later, I ran the Harpoon race with my awesome husband, and I devoted myself back to my plan. Mary has me doing lots of small but specific speed work intervals, and it is hard! I have not done any real speed work since a year ago, and with the increased temperatures in Boston, I can feel them.

This shift in training requires a new perspective on my part, one that is a bit scary. The pressure is on, and I have committed myself to it. No longer can I blame the whole baby thing, because now it is 4 months later. I am at the point where if I want to improve, I need to commit to doing those workouts that will make me stronger and faster.

It makes me anxious. Although my next big race is not until an October marathon, I have lots of little races that I hope to feel confident at the start line. I would love to PR at the Hingham Road Race (which in reality should be easy seeing that the course has been shortened from 4.6 to 4.5!). But, at the same point, I am not quite where I need to be do that.

The real struggle comes from how I am being a total wuss at times. I am still learning to balance the working mom thing, and I let myself off easy because of this. The reality is that it was MUCH easier to train when I was on maternity leave. Then I read some other ladies’ blogs and get a little bit of envy. She has more kids than I do and is faster! That one is a mom and works full time and is an Ironwoman. I only have to train about 6 hours a week- what am I complaining about!!!!

Totally a struggle to balance- I want to improve REALLY badly, but I am uncertain whether I am placing too high of expectations on myself too soon…..

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I have had some FUN with running lately. I ran the Foxboro 5K with Liz and some other lovely bloggers. I need to do more social races like this- thanks for a great morning, ladies!

Memorial Day Reflection

2011-05-30T14:55:00.003-04:00

It is finally sunny and nice here in Boston. Though I should be outside, baby Jack is finally taking a nap. Call me crazy, but I will take being inside if it means that the child sleeps.

Sitting here on the couch gives me the opportunity to reflect on Memorial Day. When I first started dating my now husband, I knew very little about the military. A career in the armed forces was just not a common path for the New England crowd that I run in.... except for Bill. I knew when I started dating him that our relationship was going to be somewhat rocked by this whole military thing, but thought initially that the biggest challenges would be due to distance. After all, he was becoming a lawyer in a peacetime military.

Like all Americans, my world was rocked by 9.11. I will never forget the chaos of that day. Was this person okay? Thank heavens that another skipped a breakfast meeting at WTC that morning! I am sure that each and every one of us has not just one story but many. We use that day not just to recall the fallen, but it also serves as a reminder of how truly blessed we all are. No matter how tough life might seem, nothing compares to the tragedy that many families continue to experience each day.

It was after 9.11 that I finally began to understand the military. Bill, then my boyfriend, prepared for deployment to Afghanistan. I marveled at the bravery of the soldiers and also at the strength of the extended military family. Words cannot describe the bonds that develop for those left at home.

Bill and I are very blessed. He served in both Iraq and Afghanistan, and while he certainly saw danger firsthand, he arrived home safely both times. Today, when I think of those who died in the two wars that are still ongoing, I am slapped in the face by the reality that I am so lucky to have him. So very very blessed!

Others are not so fortunate, and I realize that. I will never forget when I heard that a young man named Brian McPhillips was killed in Iraq. I had not thought of Brian in many years when this sad news developed. I did not know Brian well, but he was a friend of my high school boyfriend. A Marine lietenant, Brian was killed in action during the first month of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Today when I go for my run, I will think of Brian. God Bless him.

My Favorite Fan

2011-05-24T09:31:00.003-04:00

Just a late picture from the marathon- here is my favorite fan Olivia greeting me near the 10K mark of Boston!

Harpoon 5 Miler

2011-05-23T21:37:00.001-04:00

This past Sunday, I ran in the Harpoon 5 Mile Race. For any blog readers that I might have left after being in a running funk and thus not posting, this occurrence is a bit of a surprise. All in all, it was a great day!

(Full disclosure- this will not be my most eloquent post- I am rushing to write it- I feel like I have no time these days!!!)

Race Recap

I cannot say enough good things about this race. My only only only complaint is that I did not get an exact 5 on my Garmin; the course was a little short and some of the mile markers were off. Otherwise, the logistics were great.

My husband, sister, baby and I headed to the Harpoon brewery at 9 AM for a 10AM race start. Despite the 3,500 runners and their guests at the race, we were able to park, retrieve our numbers and hit the portapotties twice before heading to the corals at 9:40.

We lined up with the 8 minute pace sign. What was so impressive was that people were actually lining up correctly! We easily walked up to the 8 minute sign and hung out until the start. I had been injured and cranky about running, but my pulled piformis had been feeling much better in the past two days. I was not sure what to expect as I had barely run in the past three weeks, and was wincing in pain when running with my Learn to Run group.

The race is a nice out and back loop. Our first mile was a 7:45, which I thought was a little fast, but it felt okay. I had decided to run by feel, and covered up my Garmin so I could not see it. Because I am still feeling the butt muscle, I did not want to give 100% effort out there and risk getting reinjured. But, it was a race and I wanted to run it just a tad uncomfortably! Not too much, but I wanted to be on that edge of knowing there was more to give.

Typically, my husband and I run every race together except for the Hingham July 4th race- that one we do on our own. He started falling behind me a little bit at the turn around, and I thought he wanted me to be cautious. So, although I kept going, I tried to keep him in sight and not lose him. He claims, the good husband he is, that I was running well, and that he was tired. The truth is that he is a faster runner than me, and I think he was nervous because I could barely walk earlier in the week!

I finished in 37:36- a 7:32 pace. The Garmin said I was a 7:35 pace, so I will take that as well!

Race Reflection

I felt like I got my groove back with this race. Being injured since the Royal Wedding (yes, that was the last day I had ran) had really dampened my spirits. I had to drop off a relay team because of it, and not running was making me very very sad. It was as if my best friend in 2nd grade became a mean girl. That is how sad I felt!

But, we reunited today. It was a little awkward at first, and I know our relationship still needs some work, but I know we can get there.

Post Race Pictures

Jack and his babysitter

Cheering us on!

Family Picture

Stretching post race

A Literal P.I.A.

2011-05-10T13:13:00.002-04:00

One word to explain my lack of blogging- INJURED! What is a running blog without running to write about?

I literally have a P.I.A. The pain is right in my piformis muscle. At first, I tried to ignore it and kept running. This strategy left me unable to walk the day after I run. Not being able to walk is difficult when one has a three month old.... just saying!

My friend is a GREAT physical therapist, and she gave me a whole routine to do. I have religiously doing them every day for a week, so I thought I might have some results. Nope! I still have a major P.I.A.

I feel very lost without my running. The whole scenario is so very frustrating. I did not get injured during marathon training but now I am for no reason! I ran ten days after having a natural birth and did not get injured. Apparently, the whole experiment is catching up with my body.

I am so torn- I can run, but it hurts. Not childbirth hurt, but it still feels pretty terrible. I cannot decipher whether or not I should try to push through the pain. I cannot figure out what it means that I cannot walk the next day, but then am okay a day later.

Deep breaths that I will get over this soon..... and apologies for a ranting rambling blog post!

Running Class

2011-04-30T17:33:00.001-04:00

For the past two springs, I have taught a little running class through our town’s recreation department. The goal of the course is to successfully train runners for the annual Fourth of July road race. It is an exciting tradition in our little town- the road even was even striped red, white and blue for the occasion last year.

I began my third installment of this class this past Wednesday evening. Thirteen students signed up for the course, and I am excited to work with them to achieve this goal. Although I do not miss teaching high school, I do miss teaching. This class helps me to get my fix.

Teaching the class this year was a difficult decision for me. Back to work full time, I feel that any moment spent away from my little baby needs to be purposeful. But, it came down to the fact that I really enjoy working with the students in this class. I was not a runner myself, and still think it is pretty amazing that I was able to transform myself into one. This class brings me back to my first Hingham road race and reminds me of why I became a runner.

My Little Jack Rabbit…. and My Final Words about Boston 2011

2011-04-26T21:37:00.001-04:00

Another shameless plug of my little Jack Rabbit- he makes me so happy!

I know I am his mama, but my goodness, his Easter picture may be the cutest thing ever.

My race recap of Boston is now over a week late. Fortunately, it now means most of the emotion about the race has died down for me, and I can concisely summarize the day.

(1) I went out a little too fast….. Boston #5 and I still am learning….

(2) The weather was a little too hot for my liking, especially after training in this winter. Next year, I plan on jacking up the heat in my house and running on my best friend the treadmill. The HEAT (I am being dramatic) caused me some distress, and I let it get to me.

(3) Although I had a great training cycle for it being so short, I don’t think I was as ready for the race as I would have liked. At mile 22, running became slow and ugly. Then again, that could be the result of going out too fast and the heat.

(4) I really, really, really want to run another marathon soon. So, as Colleen said in a comment, why don’t I? A fall marathon is on the horizon!

(5) The end was awesome. I mean really- look at me as I run onto Boylston! I love this race no matter the outcome. And that my friends is the spirit of running.

Boston Marathon Recap Prelude- How I Trained for a Marathon after Giving Birth

2011-04-23T09:57:00.007-04:00

As I sat down to write my recap of the Boston Marathon, I realized that I wanted to capture the months that led up to the date. Knock on wood- Jack hopefully will not be my only child. I want to be able to look back on these months if I am pregnant and struggling with exercise what I was able to accomplish the first time.

I found out I was pregnant with Jack within a month after the 2010 Boston Marathon. TTC was a struggle for me, so needless to say I was nervous as running was pointed to as one of the possible culprits. Initially, I thought I would stop running when I was pregnant again. However, each spring, I teach a Learn to Run class in our town that prepares participants for our annual Fourth of July Road Race. It starts the week after Boston. So, not only did I need to instruct the class, but I needed to keep my running up so that I stayed faster than the students.

So, run I did- up until the month of my due date. I did not put in serious miles or break any speed records.

I ran with Cisco.

I ran with Bill.

I ran even when I was pushing it at ten minute miles.

(Even though I am huge here, I think it may be my favorite picture of myself. I feel so hardcore!)

I stopped running in the few weeks before the marathon, but I still was walking, going to hot yoga and on the elliptical. When Boston training started in the beginning of January, I devoted every Sunday to spending as much time walking/ellipticalling for the time that I should have been running. Even though it was not running, I know this cardio helped me immensely in the next few months.

Then, Jack was born. Big, big, ouch. I remember walking to the restroom the day I had him and thinking that I could barely make it there, so how could I possibly run Boston. I tried running for the first time 10 days after I had him and did 5 painful miles on the treadmill. EVERYTHING hurt. Everything! I chalked it up to the fact that I needed to start somewhere. Then, I went to the gym about two weeks after I gave birth to Jack and only completed 8 miles on the treadmill (with walking breaks) on a day where I should have been running miles in the high teens to be adequately prepped for Boston. It was a huge struggle. I cried to my husband. I was so upset. And I emailed Mary and asked her to coach me.

And, coach me she did. It was the best money I have ever spent. Much better than any lululemon outfit. Really! I did not technically need a coach; I had run 6 marathons before then after all. But, I needed major confidence that I could pull it off. And, Mary and her program rebuilt both my physical and mental strength. And, despite having a month of from running and starting some mileage, I did not get injured.

I cannot say that I am super happy with my time at this year's Boston. It was 20 minutes slower than last year after all. But, I am so proud of myself that I had the courage to even consider trying this crazy experiment. It was awesome crossing onto Boylston that day- it really took a village to get me there. My parents watched Jack so much so I could run. Mary coached me. My blogging buddies gave me support. My running club friends pushed me to get back with my normal group. And, my husband, well, he never doubted for one second that I could do it. He was my confidence when I did not have any.

I am not anyone special for trying this. There are lots of running moms out there who come back faster after having birth. But, I never considered myself an athlete. Yet, Jack will never know me as anything but a runner. How awesome is that!

A Little Bit of a Heartbreaker- Boston Marathon 2011

2011-04-21T20:02:00.001-04:00

What an amazing day! I did not run a PR, nor did I come close to it. Yet, I finished this race with a huge smile on my face.

Marathon #7- 3:54:37

I am SO very sad that it is over. It is a little bit of a heartbreaker for me. I just will miss marathon training so very much.

Full recap to come, but here are some pictures that capture the day

Heading to the coralls with Leann and Steph

Trying to stay strong

On Beacon Street near the end with dead legs but still smiling!

Onto Hereford- the end is near!

#7 Complete

With my number one fan

Faithful from start to finish

2011-04-17T16:33:00.001-04:00

Faithful from start to finish

When I finished reading this article by Father Brian, tears came to my eyes. He writes that he runs to give praise to God for the creation of life. How beautifully stated! My little Jack illustrates this phrase for me. I simply look at him and am reminded of why I am running tomorrow.

Take the time to read Father Brian's words. Even if you are not Catholic, I promise you will find some gems.

For Patty

2011-04-13T19:20:00.001-04:00

Before I begin this blog post, many thanks to all those who posted nice words about the post on Another Mother Runner. You make me blush. I am just a lady trying to figure this whole balancing act out.

Tis the week before Boston, and of course, the taper is making me a little mad. Mary still has some runs on my schedule, including one that made me descend in speed. I did it, and I would stand on my head if she told me too, but there was something so counter-intuitive about slowing down. Especially for me…..

That run was a reminder for me. My life has been extremely busy since I returned to work. Jack and I attended a Bachelorette in NYC- he is so wild! And, there have been board meetings and just stuff to go along with the work, the family life and the training. I never imagined how hard it would be. Jack is in wonderful hands with my parents’ for the month of April, and I do enjoy being back at work. I love him more than I can express, but leaving him is not the hardest part. Living life is a logistical nightmare right now. Every day feels rushed and hectic, and I probably need to descend the pace a little bit and cut down on some of my obligations.

I have been thinking a lot this week about HOW I want to live my life. Much of this reflection was a result of the passing of my husband’s Aunt Patty this past Monday. She was 74 years young, but you would have thought she was 16 by the way she acted and lived her life. The woman was a storm of activity and dominated any room that she entered. Outspoken, Patty lived her life the way SHE wanted to. She really did not care what anyone thought of her or her opinions. I so very much admire her for that.

Patty was diagnosed with late stage cancers shortly after I had Jack. The prognosis certainly wasn’t good, and she accepted it with dignity. My husband and I brought Jack down to meet Patty not even two weeks ago on April 1st. Though she was very sick and it was hard to see her that way, I will always remember how she held Jack, rocking him and kissing him. Our last afternoon spent with Patty was so wonderful, and I will be forever grateful for her love.

This weekend, instead of being in Boston with the frenzy of the marathon, I will be in Hartford with our family celebrating the life of this remarkable woman. God Bless you Patty. I am privileged to have had you as a part of my life. This year’s Boston is for you.

Don't Be Afraid to Lose

2011-04-07T13:51:00.003-04:00

I stole this from Elizabeth's blog. It provided me with complete inspiration for Boston.

Bring it on!

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On a side note, I am featured by the lovely authors of Another Mother Runner today on their blog! Thank you, Sarah and Dimity!

Balancing Act

2011-04-06T21:41:00.001-04:00

I returned to work this week. There may have been some tears shed on Sunday (and maybe even on Saturday too), but Monday was a good day. There were no tears shed on my part, though I think my husband may have experienced a few from baby Jack during the day. My adult brain functioned, and I wore a pair of heels for the first time since December. I would call the day a success based on these two facts alone.

Even better, I managed to fit it two runs since my return. One did start at the early hour of 4:45 AM and did occur on my second husband, the treadmill. But, it was completed.

I should mention that it is Wednesday, and I am exhausted from the week already.

Life for me has evolved into one big balancing act this week. How do I care for Jack’s needs? How do my husband and I find time for each other? How do I remain a productive member of my office?

I admittedly am not good at balancing. This skill is like Mandarin to me, a foreign language that I cannot decipher, read or understand. I tend to be the type of person who commits 110% to everything she does. With Jack, I am not sure there is time to give 110% anymore.

Maybe, just maybe, I don’t need to give 110%. Maybe I need to be more balanced.

A Week in Paradise

2011-04-02T23:42:00.001-04:00

I fell off the face of the earth this week….. no email, no google reader, no twitter, etc. It was my last week of maternity leave, so we needed to get away. I love work, but am not ready to go back. Very conflicting indeed! So, to the Westin St. John we went! More on that later….

But, the day before we left I ran a 20 miler on the Boston course. For most training for the big day this year, this feat is nothing big. For a lady who gave birth nine weeks previous, it was a huge feat. I had not run this far since the marathon last year. This was a big huge deal for me. I know I need to get over myself. Running post pregnancy is all the rage lately (just kidding!) - and some ladies like Dorothy are simply inspiring to me. Please go ahead and read her recap of the National Half. You will get what I mean when you read it. I read about Dorothy and read this Kara Goucher article and realized that it was time to face the music. I have made the choice to compete in the Boston Marathon this year; no one is forcing me to Hopkinton on April 18th.

The 20 miler was AWESOME! I ran with my friend Leann, which is one of my favorite things to do in the world. I adore this girl and our friendship. And, she pulled me through this course. I only left the run with a little apprehension. What can I pull off? What if I had a few more weeks?

We headed to St. John on Monday morning. I love Boston, but I certainly could live in the warm weather year round. Although I indulged, I nailed my workouts from coach Mary. They may have all been run on a treadmill, but they were all completed and completed well. I am still jazzed up from the 20 miler!

It was a great vacation, one of the best. We enjoyed it immensely.

I think this picture is so funny! There is no crying in paradise Baby Jack!

Popping the color

I love swimming!

I cannot believe that Monday will be April 4th, the date since before I knew I had a little baby boy that I would return to work. I am so not ready…. to return to work, for the marathon, to face the new reality that my life will be. But, I have no choice. It is time to face the music.

Apprehension

2011-03-22T07:29:00.003-04:00

Is it crazy that I am running a marathon next month and this is the least of my concerns?

Lately, I have been wracked with worry and apprehension. Thank goodness I decided to resume running shortly after having Jack; I can only imagine what the state of my mind might be in if I had not. The running is good right now; not great, but good and I am okay with that. I get a little stronger each week, and following a plan is good for me.

However, within two weeks, I return to work. There is no plan unfortunately for me to follow here. I realize that I am not the first woman to face this situation, but since it is the first time I have to deal with it, it is a BIG deal for me. I truthfully like my job and enjoy the company of those I work with each day. I am grateful for this. But, thinking about returning and the logistics of it all cause me to cringe. My whole day right now is consumed by taking care of Jack and trying to keep our little home life in order, and I drive myself crazy thinking about how I will do it all once I am out of the house everyday from 7-6. And, find the time to work out and run as well!

Needless to say, I am freaking out already about how I will keep it all together once I am back to work. I know that I need to breathe and go with the flow, and realize that although it will not be easy, I will manage. I need to have a little more confidence in it. I just wish there was some type of training plan to prepare me for those first few months.

Happy Saint Patrick’s Day!

2011-03-17T22:31:00.001-04:00

Yes, I am shamelessly posting pictures of my baby…..

Love this little guy

An Irish Jig

A Big Smile

Confidence Boosters

2011-03-14T09:14:00.001-04:00

Every expectant mother is told horror stories about labor and delivery by well meaning women. However, no one really shared with me how difficult the first few weeks of recovery are on the body. I am not sure of what I expected, but I was certainly naive in thinking that I would bounce back quickly.

My fitness has been coming along slowly but surely in the six weeks since I arrived home with Jack from the hospital. Many in my life have commented to me that I am so good and so lucky to be able to do so much at this point. Like Jenn, these comments make me cringe a bit, even though I politely smile and say thank you. I have worked so hard over the past few weeks with the help of Mary. It is not luck and it is not because I am good. Rather, it is a result of working out up until the day before my water broke and then working with a coach to rebuild my base fitness. There are definitely times that I would rather sleep or snuggle my little baby, but I know that for the sake of my sanity, I need to embrace the fitness wagon.

Needless to say, it has been frustrating to see how slower miles were hard though I certainly have improved in the six weeks. Yet, I seemed to still be stuck lately in the 9 minute range, and I was hoping for a breakthrough.

Last week, I could not get Sally Meyerhoff out of my head. In her last blogpost before her sad and unexpected death, she wrote, “Things are going very well and I couldn't be happier. I can tell my fitness improves weekly, which feels nice, ha! My run fitness is not where I want it to be right now but A is giving me great workouts that test me and improve my strength.”

She also wrote, “I cannot express how HAPPY I am with where I am in my life right now though, and how grateful I feel for being able to do what I do. I just wouldn't trade it for anything and any time I am feeling not very motivated, I think about how miserable I feel when I am not training or doing something else I don't LOVE. I totally and completely love this life I'm living and the most fabulous thing is that I know it's only going to get 20 times better by the end of the year.” As I look at my little Jack sleep in my lap as I write this post, these words really hit home.

So sad. RIP Sally…. her words were resonating with me as I reflected on my own state and my goals for this year.

With Sally in mind, I tackled my workouts for the rest of the week. Luckily, we are beginning to see glimpses of spring in New England. I was able to run in my running skirt on both Saturday and Sunday. (Sally was a BIG fan of the running skirt and though I did not know her, I wanted to pay my own little tribute to her.) And no, my white legs were not what boosted my confidence. My runs were actually both great this weekend; Sally was clearly inspiring me as I traveled along the roads.

Saturday’s run was short, just 35 minutes on the schedule. I wore the Garmin but covered it up so that I could just run by feel, knowing where the 2 mile turnaround was and figuring I would be a few minutes over 35 once I returned. What a nice surprise it was to see that I was right at 35 once I returned home- 8:30s felt like a big victory.

I woke on Sunday morning and headed to L St. My best running friend Leann agree to run with me, and I told her I wanted to hit 9s, feeling bad I as know this is slow for her. We were running a bit fast, but I did not feel as if I was trashing myself. I spent the first 9 miles of the 15 mile run worried that I was going to blow up- could I hold onto this pace? Why did it feel good? Somehow, I did, and we finished 15 miles in about 2:08. This run was a huge improvement from last week. I arrived at Sunday night feeling a world better about where my running is and where my fitness is post-baby.

For the rest of marathon training, until April 18th (thanks Liz- how did I mess up the day of the marathon in my last post?), Sally will inspire me. I want to be grateful for this opportunity, to be totally in love with the life that I am living. With all the small things that happen in daily life, it is easy to lose track of this big picture. I need to place that in front of me and use it as my focal point.

I Have Not Posted in a Long Time so I Have to Write Random Things

2011-03-10T11:18:00.001-05:00

I have not posted in a very long time, but I have read all of your blogs religiously. It is very hard to write an entire post while nursing Baby Jack. However, blogs bring me countless hours of entertainment while I undergo countless hours of nursing. I think of many, many things to blog about during this time and then forget about them. I am only able to blog right now as my parents are here and ogling over him.

Jack is almost 7 weeks old. Yikes! I am going back to work on April 4th. Bigger yikes! Boston is on April 19th- biggest yikes!

My running continues to be the fourth love of my life, after the husband, the baby and the puppy. Honestly, I don’t know how people follow the postpartum directives to not workout for 6 weeks post delivery. Our bodies were meant to move, and exercise is such a relief and a break from what life has become. I realize that I am not a medical expert, and that I worked out until the day before my water broke. But, for me, breaking that rule has been the right decision.

I realize that I run way too much at the gym and on the treadmill. I have a serious, serious infatuation with the treadmill, so much so that I should probably not be called a runner. Runners like the outdoors and so forth. I like a moving belt and watching the captions on tv. I even ignored my crying baby when I had 5 more minutes to go on the treadmill- mother of the year I know. Seeing that the Boston Marathon will not be run on a treadmill, and that our New England weather is a bit more bearable, I have been making an effort to run outdoors. Shhh… don’t tell the treadmill, but I enjoyed every one of those runs.

Sunday’s long run was awesome- 16 miles outdoors and in capris and a long sleeve. I ran through Hull, Hingham and Cohasset. If anyone is local, consider doing the Cohasset by the Sea 10K. It is a tough course but the scenery is so very worth it. I loved the run, until I realized how dehydrated I was and bonked at mile 13. And there was no store to buy water…. and I was stupid for only bringing one bottle of Poland Springs with me. I just slowed down, realized my mistake and got home.

People watching at the gym is the BEST. Maybe that reason number 54 is why I love the treadmill as well. When I walked into the gym the other day, a girl walked about and IMMEDIATELY lit up a cigarette! What???? I guess she was at the gym at least. And, I love the muscle head men walking on the treadmills. And, the old ladies with their SPARKLY tops walking on the treadmills (because I tend to go at times of days when they are out). I guess I should wonder why so many people at my gym are walking…..

My mother wants to leave and thus not let me blog anymore…. Well, see you when I convince her to take care of him the next time….

Running Long

2011-02-28T11:22:00.003-05:00

Every time I have reached mile 19 or so in a marathon, I question my sanity. Why do I keep signing up for marathons? What compels me to put myself through the event one more time?

My questions to myself are answered during training. I will never ever be a speed demon. Certainly, I am not a turtle of a runner, but I do not have the desire to train to become a hare. However, when I am running long, I experience complete nirvana. Trudging along, I achieve some sort of zen.

Yesterday, I had 13 miles planned according to my coach. I was planning to get up in the morning and head to South Boston, to connect with my L St running club friends. I got my fussy little baby to bed before 11 which is a miracle; he must know that the only night I need to sleep is on Saturday so he refuses to go to bed on this night. I felt the stars were lining up to get me to Southie.

I woke up in the morning and looked out window. There was snow falling, and my excitement level for my run rose. And then I saw the car in my driveway.... that was blocking in our cars. One of my husband's friends left it there after their night of revelry. It meant that I was not driving in to the club as there were no keys to move the car.

Needless to say, I was not happy. My perfect little plan was set aside. I looked outside and saw our lack of sidewalks and plows rumbling by and realized that it was probably not so safe to head out for a run on the streets of Hingham. But, I was ready to go. Plan C came into action.

Enter my trusty little treadmill. I LOVE running on the treadmill, but 13 is a ominous number to complete on one. I had little choice though but to get on it if I wanted to run at that very moment. The treadmill started up, and I headed along my way.

It was a great run! Honestly! My music motivated me, and I was literally arm dancing on my treadmill while running at times. My shirt that I placed over the display distracted me from how much I had to go and kept me just running by feel. I ran for just over 2 hours without stopping, evenly paced. With my gus and water on the console, there was no reason to stop. And, the realization hit me as it does every training cyle. I love to run long. I think, reflect and connect with my mind and body. The sweat cleanses me, and even though I am technically dirty, the experience purifies me. I need to bottle this little moment, capturing the essence of how I feel when I run long.

Get After It

2011-02-22T22:03:00.005-05:00

On Monday, Baby Jack turned one month old. Amazing- my little guy is getting bigger and cuter by the day. He weighs in at a whopping 9 pounds now. More amazing is reflecting on how physically beat up I felt a month ago. I literally felt like I was hit by a truck and had been on a horse too long- simultaneously. I remember walking with my very numb leg in the post-recovery room, on two hours of sleep and thinking that I was absolutely crazy to have registered for the marathon... (and perhaps absolutely crazy that this thought was crossing my mind at the current moment)

I honestly felt that I was never going to be able to run again at that moment. I could barely walk to the bathroom. And, then, the nurse practioner gave me the speech where she tells you not to exercise for six weeks postpartum as she was releasing me from the hospital. I wanted to cry. For the first week home, I felt terrible, sleep deprived and also jealous of my husband when he came up from the treadmill. I was not happy with my fate.

I came to the realization that I could continue to feel lousy or I could get after it.

Get after it- what does this imply for me right now? I need to set goals and go for them. Instead of just wishing I could recover from the labor and delivery, I need to be proactive about recovery. Physical exercise is a huge part of it for me, not just running but also yoga and other things. I also need to be smart about how I try to reach them. I must use a plan to get there so I don't risk injury. Hence why I am using a coach for the first time as I plan to run my seventh marathon.

Our attitude in life largely determines our outcomes. If my attitude is that I can succeed if I put the work in, this whole crazy plan to run Boston will be okay. If I doubt that I can do it, I am setting myself up for failure at the starting line.

Right now, my house may be covered in baby gifts and dog hair, I may not have written one thank you note, but my workouts are completed each day. And, I am so happy because of it.

Adjusting to the new life

2011-02-18T19:25:00.004-05:00

There is certainly a new sheriff in town. Baby Jack is the best, but he certainly demands much of my time. I am a woman who loves a schedule and loves being on time, so a newborn with zero sense of time and little obligations is a bit baffling to me. Needless to say, I have had to mellow a bit and go with the flow. This is very hard for me, but I realize that my new boss has not set his own schedule yet.

I have not blogged in almost two weeks, as most of my computer time is done one-handed while nursing. Thus, I have read lots and lots of blogs (and articles and opinion pieces about the BAA and the change in the Boston registration. But, I have been working on writing this blog for four days now!

Although I may not be blogging and my house may be a mess of unopened presents, m workouts have not suffered. I am working with Mary to prep for Boston, and thank heavens I am! I have a bit going on, and it is so easy to simply open up my email and see what I have to do today. I like lists, so for me, this is a great way to train.

I have about 90 different blog posts in my head, and so much to comment on! But for now, I am going to be content with this little post about nothing. Baby steps, right?

8 Measly Miles

2011-02-07T12:39:00.005-05:00

Does an 8 mile run count as a long run in marathon training? For old Adrienne, definitely not. For the past two years, that was the minimum length of my Tuesday and Thursday runs during Boston training. For post baby Adrienne, apparently it counts as I finished my first week back running with the longest run that I have completed since finding out I was pregnant.

I blame it on my husband. He wanted to leave the gym, because his workout was done. Otherwise, I would have stayed on longer (or so I tell myself!). Is it depressing that he can run 6 miles and lift weights in the time that it took me to run 8? Very much so- I could not believe that it took me an hour and eighteen minutes to complete that run. Last year at this time, I had the ability to run this same distance in just over an hour.

But, these are merely comparisons, right? I know that I cannot be comparing myself at this time last year to myself at two weeks postpartum. I know that if I tried to run faster at this point, injuries would spring up. Patience has never been a virtue of mine, but I am working very hard to develop it right now.

I am so nervous running right now; it feels fine, but I was told not to run until 6 weeks postpartum. In life, I am a rule follower. I like schedules, and I follow directions very well. Going against doctor's orders is an act of rebellion for me. Unfortunately, I do not have the time to take off if I want to run Boston. I also need the mental release of running right now. It is in EVERYONE's best interest for me to run. I am absolutely in love with my baby boy, but I need a little break sometimes.

8 Measly Miles..... I will take it for what it is, another steppingstone as I journey back to a marathoner.

Newbie

2011-02-02T22:25:00.002-05:00

The last few weeks I have felt like such a newbie to everything. I am new to motherhood. I feel as if my husband and I have a new relationship; this little guy has totally strengthened my bond to him. I feel new to running, as I just work with my ten minute miles as I continue my recovery. Even staying at home full time feels new (and a bit awkward I must admit).

Tonight, I returned to yoga for the first time since I had Jack. I had run three miles on the treadmill earlier and was looking to do a little bit more. Once again, I felt new to the entire experience. Though my mind knew the postures, my body acted as if I was learning them all over again. I went to hot yoga just three days before I went into labor with Jack, and I practiced throughout my pregnancy. However, tonight, I did not have a big belly at practice. All the modifications that I had made for the past months were pushed aside. I was not worried about balance during crow so I could challenge myself to do it tonight. There were no more excuses to hold back. However, after not doing this posture for some time, it was as if I was attempting it for the first time. In half moon, I was off balance because it was strange to not have the stomach anymore. My body was retraining itself the entire practice.

Tonight's yoga was a great practice for me. It reminded me that the next few months are going to be full of new challenges. It will be frustrating at times, but I just need to remember that I have to be willing to attempt things. I must remind myself that as everything does with practice, my mind and body will embrace my new life.

Recovering from the Arrival of Baby Jack

2011-02-01T17:26:00.001-05:00

Poor little baby Jack probably thinks that world is a snow covered place. It has literally done nothing but snow since he arrived into the world on January 21st at 8AM. Right now, in Boston, we are experiencing heavy snowfall with an estimated forecast of 15 inches.

The snow covered roads are making me feel a little less guilty about the fact that I have not started training for Boston yet. Each week, I look at my running club’s homepage and become very jealous about their long runs. I LOVE long runs. They are my favorite workout. But, I am still recovering from the arrival of Baby Jack and just not ready to pound the pavement for hours yet.

No one EVER told me that recovering from birth would be this difficult. Maybe it was my own naivety, but I did not expect it to take this long. I thought that keeping myself in shape would help with the recovery. But, in the ten days since Jack was born, I only have been able to walk, and I ran a whopping two miles very slow on Sunday. And, according to my hospital discharge instructions, these activities were illegal. The doctor told me no physical activity for 6 weeks. Clearly, she is out of her mind. It was not my actual doctor, so she obviously did not read that I worked out until the day before my water broke.

But back to the recovery- it hurts! Jack was almost 20 inches and 7 pounds 13 ounces upon arrival. He also required 4 hours of pushing- it took me twenty four LESS minutes to run the marathon last year! Needless to say, he tore me open on his entry into the world, giving me almost 20 stitches in various places and a severe case of anemia due to blood loss. Last week, I was dizzy and hobbling and wondering why the stork did not deliver him to me. Jack is TOTALLY worth it, but he certainly did a number on my body.

As a runner, I have learned to push through discomfort. Recovering from giving birth makes me feel like a new runner again. I am unsure of what is good pain and what is bad pain. I am anxious, testing the waters, and uncertain.

*********

Today, we are once again stuck at home due to the snow. I intended to go to yoga, but our driveway is VERY steep and I was nervous that I would not get back up it with the snow. So, I lounged around most of the day (which really translates into nursing and changing the baby most of the day) until I finally decided to walk on the treadmill. After 1/4 mile, I realized that it was not doing much for me. I decided to run the next quarter at a ten minute pace. Since it felt good, I kept going…. until I hit five miles. It was a HUGE victory for me in this recovery. It certainly was not my best run, but I felt like me for the first time since I had Jack.

Jack is 100% worth it. I never imagined that I would have such a sweet little boy. I cannot believe my body made such a wonderful little thing. But, selfishly, I was glad today to see that now it can do more than just breastfeed!

My two boys

Baby Jack

2011-01-26T21:14:00.001-05:00

John “Jack” Gerard Ramsey arrived Friday, January 21st at 8:00 AM on the dot during the snowstorm. Nothing prepared me for the childbirth experience or for how much in love with my little man that I am.

Full recap of the most intense physical endurance event I have ever experienced to come….. but now I need to go nurse Jack for literally the tenth time today.

Things to Do When You Cannot Run…. and are waiting for a new little person to show up when he/she feels like it

2011-01-15T21:59:00.001-05:00

Wow, that may be the longest blog title that I have ever posted! I have not posted in over a week, but I have not had much to report or write about. It is strange to think of posts for a blog that is titled “Running in Hingham” when the writer is not running at all nor is she aware of when she can resume running.

Since I quit running, my workouts have three variations- walking on the treadmill or with Cisco the dog, the elliptical and hot yoga. It is interesting the looks I get when I am in public exercising. Yes, my stomach looks like it might have a life of its own, but really… there is no need to stare! I love hot yoga as always, but those twisting poses just are not happening right now….. but I am there and present, which is the most I can ask for these days.

Besides doing pregnant lady exercises, I have just been booking trips. So far, I booked my hotel for the night before the NYC half, a weekend in Vermont and a week in the Virgin Islands. My husband is not crazy about the idea of bringing an infant to New York, but if the celebrities can live there with their kids, we can visit with one. Traveling to the USVI with a two month old will be interesting, but I cannot imagine leaving the little one at home.

On a more reflective note, I cannot believe that my pregnancy journey is coming to an end. I am so anxious to get this show on the road and welcome this new little person into my life.

I Quit

2011-01-06T15:23:00.002-05:00

I am breaking up with running for a few weeks. I have determined that since I ran right until 38 weeks that enough is enough. I really really really wanted to be that woman who ran on her due date. But, based on how uncomfortable my dropped stomach feels when just walking, it is not in the cards. For the remainder, long live the elliptical, the Spin bike and the Arc trainer (and hot yoga of course!). The good thing is I was able to watch not one but two episodes of the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills while at the gym today. I have never seen this show, and for distraction value, it was highly entertaining. And, it kept me on the elliptical for that long.

The break comes right when my running club is about to start training for the Boston Marathon. It is so weird not to have a little schedule posted next to my desk and to not be thinking about miles right now. But, like any good friend, I know that running will be there for me when I am ready to meet again.

Full Circle

2010-12-30T16:06:00.001-05:00

2009 did not end well for me. I experienced my second miscarriage (eerily, a year after my first one) and was completely out of sorts. I questioned many things at that point and did not feel completely whole at that point, believing that I was just terrible at the whole baby incubating thing. Way to feel like a woman….. January was a rough month for me, and I took solace in running. Whenever I was feeling down, which was a lot, I just went down to my basement and hopped on my trusty treadmill. It cleared my head for a little bit and was great for my marathon training.

Throughout the whole winter, I trained for Boston. I am SO SO very lucky to have run this race four times now. Honestly, training for the marathon was the only thing that kept me going over those months. Looking back, I never realized how truly anguished that I was. But, the reality of this training schedule kept me focused, and I plugged away at it.

Brrr!!! But I love cold weather running!

February came along, and I continued to focus on my marathon training. My first test came at the Hyannis Half Marathon, where I ran somewhat of a frustrating race. I ended up finishing in 1:46, which was perfectly fine, but I never felt like I really pushed it. Apparently, my gut was correct as I crossed the half at the actual marathon in 1:44. Hyannis was great though, as many friends were there and we went to the British Beer Company afterwards.

Along came March, a trip to Mexico, the start of a back injury and some warmer temps- it was a good month! In retrospect, the back injury probably aided my day, as I tapered and cross-trained a little earlier than planned.

I guess that should be proud of myself that there is a big bottle of water on my table in this picture and not a big pitcher of margaritas!

April arrived and I wrote down goals for the marathon. It worked, and I had the RACE OF MY LIFE! I still cannot believe that it worked out so well.

Leann and I right before the race

Smiling in Framingham

Still smiling right before the Newton hills

With Bill after the finish!

May arrived, and I worked with my Learn to Run students and ran with Liz for the last part of her first marathon…. I thought I was a little off that morning…. because later that week

I discovered that I was pregnant.

So crazy- I really did not think that it would happen again so soon. I lived nervously for a few months and continued to run along.

My favorite running partner!

Hingham 4th of July Race with Mac and Colleen-my last race as a secret pregnant lady

End of the Summer Classic- August in Bare Cove Park

Running in Hyde Park, London, with Courtney

25 Weeks- After treadmill run in Geneva

29 Weeks at home

And now….. I have come full circle from my emotional state a year ago.

Today- 37 Weeks…. and still walk/running/yogaing/spinning…

Yes, I think I have dropped. Baby Ramsey is ready!

2010 started off terribly. Yet, it ended up being one of the best years of my life personally and professionally. It became a year of new beginnings and new hopes, which was completely unexpected. I learned a great deal about myself this year, lessons that I hope will carry me through 2011.

New Year's Playlist #2

2010-12-29T21:30:00.002-05:00

Here is tomorrow's playlist.... Very bittersweet as this is the last one that I will make for quite a few weeks as tomorrow is the last class that I will teach before I have the baby.

Let the River Run 3:42 Carly Simon

Fantasy 3:48 Earth Wind and Fire

My Vision (feat. Jakatta) 3:45 Seal

I Gotta Feeling 4:49 Black Eyed Peas The

Somethin' Special (Beijing Olympic Mix) 3:06 Colbie Caillat

One More Time 5:21 Daft Punk

Viva la Vida (Workout Mix) 4:35 Julian Marshall

Amazing (Kaskade Remix) [Bonus Track] 6:34 Seal

4 Minutes (feat. Justin Timberlake & Timbaland) 4:05 Madonna

Brand New Day 6:20 Sting Brand New Day Rock

New Year’s Playlist #1

2010-12-27T21:40:00.001-05:00

One of my favorite things about teaching Spinning is the themed playlist.... With only two Spin classes left before maternity leave for Spinning starts, I have created two playlists to close out 2010. Here is #1, which is a little more pop heavy than the one I will use on Thursday morning.

Getting Rid of the Negativity

2010-12-23T21:14:00.001-05:00

I think that my stress levels are starting to really get to me. Today, I swore in front of my parents. First, I never ever ever swear. Honest to goodness! It is just not me. Next, if I were to swear, it would not be in front of my parents over whether or not a brand new baby dresser would fit in my car.

Looking back at my last few posts, I realized that I have been very negative lately. I am certainly not a Suzie Sunshine, but I do not fall into the Debbie Downer category either. However, all I seem to do on my blog lately is complain about being pregnant although I have been SO incredibly lucky with this pregnancy. After two years of trying to conceive and two miscarriages, I was certain that I was doomed to have a rough pregnancy. However, there has been no morning sickness, no complications and so far, knock on wood, a really healthy baby.

My due date is less than one month away, and I can now start to focus on the light at the end of the tunnel. Instead of freaking out that running is really hard right now, I can focus on the fact that it should get a lot easier next month when I am not 9 months pregnant. Instead of freaking out about the marathon, I can maybe take it easy on myself, and just try to run to finish like Liz suggested. Instead of lamenting the loss of my fitness, I can start focusing on how my body has done something rather amazing over these past nine months.

New year, new attitude- I need to get rid of this negativity and start creating my own positive energy.

Total Freak Out at the Gym Yesterday

2010-12-20T08:53:00.003-05:00

Yesterday, my husband and I headed to the Planet Fitness for our Sunday tradition as of late. I had already walked/run 2 miles with Cisco during our morning jaunt(he had very important things to sniff while we were out), so my plan was to hit the treadmill and see what happened.

My groove was never present from the start. All my thoughts were consumed my the fact that my due date was exactly one month away. It is amazing and scary all at once. My emotions ranged from being thrilled to finally meet this little person to trepidation that I will be someone's mother. Because of the range of emotions, I never really felt like I zoned out on the treadmill yesterday, something that I am normally rather good at. Give me the feel of the belt, an I Pod Shuffle and a few televisions to glance at, and I am typically all set.

But, my pending due date was also on my gym partner's mind as well, and he almost demanded that I take it easy. I keep reminding him that any effort is taking it easy at this point comparative to how I used to work myself out, and that I too am not hoping to see the child fall out of me at the gym. Even though he was a few treadmills away, for the sake of not feeling his eyes on my back and my console the entire time, I decided to continue with the walk/run theme. I alternated a tenth of a mile fast walk with a half mile run at a 9:20 pace. I continued on my merry way for a little over an hour, completing about 6.5 miles.

Which led to my second total freakout- Boston is April 18, 2011. That means that Boston is less than 4 months away. I have to run 20 more miles then! Dear heavens..... I am just not sure how I can do that. Normally, one runs consistently and sees improvement. I have been running for the past 8 months and only seen decreased fitness, which is cleary not the upward trend a runner hopes for.

I had to ask myself- is trying to run a marathon three months postpartum just insane at this point? I have never been through this before, so I do not know. The only thing that I do know is the New Year hitting and Boston training kicking off. I am a girl who craves routine, savoring its familiarity. How will I fare with a huge life change if my life has no resemblance to normalcy?

I think the Arc Trainer hates me....

2010-12-13T16:00:00.003-05:00

Week 35, and I can still run. However, I have come to the realization that running two days in a row just is not worth it at all anymore. I hurt in places that are not blog friendly to write about.... But, one day off, and all seems to be fine with the world, and I am able to go back to it.

But, I do need some other forms of cardio besides running and spinning, so I have been a bit more receptive to the other crazy machines that exist at the gym. I feel as if my need for them now is penance for all those years of my snobbery towards them and their users. I admit it- I mocked them both and felt a little righteous as I hit the treadmill to run. Now, I have been put in my place.

My goal for the weekends is to get in at least one long cardio workout, meaning a workout of more than an hour. The thought is that these long workouts will keep some level of fitness until Baby Ramsey arrives into the world and I have to face the reality of Boston. Somehow, I managed to get in two long workouts this weekend. But, I had to be creative and use multiple machines to achieve it.

Saturday, I taught a one hour Spin class and then I headed to the cardio deck. I did my customary zippy elliptical routine for a half hour, just trying to ignore the numb feet that I seem to gain from the elliptical machine. (I have tried everything to get this feeling to stop, but nothing seems to work!) Then, I thought I would be bold and investigate the Arc Trainer.

I spent another half hour on the Arc Trainer, and I still do not get what I was doing.... namely, because the distance that showed up as being completed just seemed so low to me.... really, one mile in 20 minutes???? I can still run faster than that. However, the settings were for the hills and maybe it was the machine? But, the big seller was that my feet were not numb! The pins and needles that the elliptical brings on were not present.

Sunday, my husband and I returned to the gym. I hit the treadmill, getting in a solid hour run at a 9:30 pace. I do get bored with the pace, but I am honestly not sure if I can handle much more now. Then, I returned to my new nemesis for an additional half hour. It is not the machine- I tried a new one. For some reason, I am just really really slow on the Arc Trainer. Very demoralizing, but at least my feet are not ready to fall off from numbness.

Moral of the story- the Arc Trainer hates me. I deserve it though for all my years of snobbery.

Six Weeks from Now

2010-12-09T14:57:00.002-05:00

Six weeks from now, my due date will have passed. I am still in a little bit of denial that I am about to have an actual baby. It should not be such a shock as my life is filled with signs of this reality. My stomach is larger than it has ever been, and there are unopened boxes containing high chairs, pack N' plays and carseats scattered throughout my house. Yet, I still have not set up the nursery, and today, I decided to squeeze into my prepregnancy pants to see if they still fit. (Verdict- yes, I can button and zipper them under my stomach so off to work I went in them. BTW, this is nothing to be proud of, just the result of my anti-maternity clothes lunancy.)

Six weeks from now, my life will start to return to normal while at the same point be completely turned upside down. My running has been so/so lately, and I am excited to return to working at it. However, I know that I will have a little friend (and Cisco) by my side as I start to push my body back into shape. I am SO excited to be an athlete again, but so nervous to face the reality of how much fitness I have lost over these past eight months. But, I cannot wait to sweat really badly and hurt. My little bundle of joy will arrive in this world at a time when it will be a bit too cold to hit the roads with the Bob stroller. Thus, I hope Baby Ramsey likes the sound of the treadmill. I am starting to wonder how many miles I will place on my home treadmill over the winter months.

Six weeks from now, I will embark on a whole new adventure. Needless to say, I am ready.

2011 Race Calendar

2010-12-03T09:13:00.002-05:00

I am in full on nesting mode at this point.... I have just about 6 weeks until the baby arrives, and I cannot stop cleaning and throwing things away. The spray bottle and rag have been my constant companions. Next weekend, we are getting both new windows and new rugs, and I anticipate that moment at it means that we can finally set up the nursery furniture. After two plus years of trying to stay pregnant, it is hard to believe that this baby will be a reality. I am getting a tad bit excited needless to say.

I have had a great pregnancy. It has been rather uneventful, and Definitely, I am also ready to not be pregnant as I spent all of 2010 recovering from a miscarriage, training for Boston and being pregnant. 2010 has been the year that my body has not been mine, and although I plan on nursing, I hope to reclaim it a bit post-birth.

I am also angsty to start organizing my life for after the baby and have started to think about the 2011 race calendar. This upcoming year will not be competitive, but rather a return to normalcy.

Here are the races so far on my schedule. Mary will be coaching me so I do not hurt myself as I prep for the big day, so there might certainly be more.

April 19th: Boston Marathon (in other words, go big or go home! On a side note, I think I am the only runner that has not received a confirmed entry yet, and I think the lovely ladies at the registration office are tired of me calling once a week to ask about it!)

May 20-21: Reach the Beach Realy- Wachusetts to Westport (I am part of an all female team called "Eat, Pray, Run". Two notes- I have not told my husband that I signed up for this race yet. I also am wondering if my teammates will mind me bringing an infant and the Bob with us in the van if I am still nursing.)

June 26: Cohasset Triathlon (This race will be for pure fun and not competitive. I am a wannabe triathlete, but have not committed the time to training for the sport. However, I love the idea of being one, and have done this race a few times for fun.)

I only have three races so far on the schedule, but I am so excited to get back to it!

Turkey Trot recap and a Joyful Playlist

2010-11-29T18:48:00.001-05:00

This year’s annual Turkey Trot in Hingham has come and gone. Although our July4th race here is my favorite, I do love running this race. The course starts at the high school, meandering into Wompatuck State Park. Because I am a female and it is a state park, I do not receive the opportunity to run on its trails very often despite its close proximity to my house.

My husband dropped me off at 7:25 for the 7:30 start and off I went. I wanted to start out slow, which was not a problem as the crowd was thick, and I purposely started at the back knowing I would not be pushing it today. I hit the first mile in 9:40 according to the mile marker, which was perfect for where I needed to be. Mile two came at 18:50- a little speedier, but perfect for me these days. According to the time clock when I crossed the finish line, it was about 28:40. However, when checking my results later online, it said I finished in 29:23???? The former and future competitive runner in me certainly feels aggravation by this confusion, but I realize that I should just be happy with an under 30 minute 5K at 32 weeks pregnant.

I am quite joyful for the fact that I am still running right now, and I tried to reflect this spirit in my playlist for this weekend. Christmas music is bombarding the airways, and I shamelessly love every minute of that. However, I realize that Spin class to Christmas music might become a bit tedious. I tried, though, to pick songs that reflect positivity and the theme of joy present in the season…. while adding a few holiday tunes in of course!

Lucky (feat. Colbie Caillat) 3:10 Jason Mraz

Rise 4:24 Samantha James

Love Generation (Featuring Gary Pine) [Bob Sinclar Radio Edit] 3:32 Bob Sinclar & Gary Pine

All I Want for Christmas Is You 4:03 Mariah Carey

Unspeakable Joy (Razor N Guido Remix) 4:08 Kim English

Angels Eyes 6:21 Ghostland

Sean Kingston - Beautiful Mashup 4:43 DJ Earworm

Raise Your Glass 3:23 P!nk

All Around the World 3:34 Lionel Richie

Christmas / Sarajevo 12/24 (Instrumental) 3:25 Trans-Siberian Orchestra

Still Still Still 4:06 Kaskade

I Just Want to Celebrate (Mocean Worker Remix) 5:01 Rare Earth

I Feel Love (Blue Man Group Radio Edit) 4:06 Blue Man Group

Fairytale of New York 4:35 The Pogues Featuring Kirsty MacColl (This song is not that positive, but may be one of my favorite Christmas tunes)

O Come All Ye Faithful / O Holy Night (Instrumental) 4:19 Trans-Siberian Orchestra Christmas Eve and Other Stories Holiday

Is the Experiment Coming to an End?

2010-11-24T19:51:00.003-05:00

Tomorrow could be the end of my little experiment with pregnancy and running. As I have progressed through the months, my motivation to run was the annual Hingham Turkey Trot. My inner thoughts kept focusing on this race, and that reason came out of my mouth whenever anyone asked me how long I planned to run until. Well, tomorrow is that day, and I am sad that it is eminent. I wonder what I will use to motivate myself.

The secret is that as much as I have complained about being slow, crotch pain and so forth, I actually have looked forward to running throughout these past 32 weeks. It has made me feel more like myself, and sweat remains cathartic for my mind. Spending that time on the the treadmill is a purge of sorts, allowing me to melt some of the anxiety that each week of pregnancy brings to me.

As the weeks have progressed, I have come more to terms with my changing body and embraced my new running for what it is- pretty awesome. I gave myself a figurative pat on the back when I completed 7 miles this past Sunday, and I bounced out of bed at 4:30 this morning excited to run. This part of my life helps me in a way that nothing else really does. Am I willing to give it up for the remaining weeks after I finish the race tomorrow? I am not ready for this journey to end, so perhaps that is my answer.

New York, New York

2010-11-10T21:16:00.001-05:00

Right now, I am inspired by all the things I cannot really do. Like run marathons…. and drink fall beers which are just so very good…..

This past weekend, the New York City Marathon occurred. NYCM has a super special place in my heart as it was my first. Honestly, if I did not have that experience, who knows if I would have done more?

I have only completed one small marathon- Hartford. And, on that day, we randomly managed to run with Dean Karnazes as he completed 50 marathons in 50 states, and Leanne, Jen and I ended up on the marathon homepage (and we still are). Needless to say, we received a lot of excitement for a small marathon.

We look so happy there…. as it was just at the start.

But, what am I wearing around my neck!

But, back to New York. Following the race this weekend, I was brought back to my own journey to the marathon. That day in 2005, I became a marathoner. It was an achievement that I never would have thought possible. Thus, every year since, though I have yet to return to the race, I am excited for the event.

Last Sunday, I tracked Liz and Ryan who were both running their first NYC marathons. (Liz is my buddy, and Ryan is my colleague’s husband.) Both Liz and Ryan ran great races, and it was great to see their hard training be so successful. I think there may have been a fist pump in my kitchen by myself after I knew of their separate finishes. Clearly, I also loved watching Massachusetts girl Shalane Flanagan kick butt and earn second place. The women’s race was so intense, and I felt like a super geek checking the twitter and blog feed on it.

In other words, I was living vicariously and perhaps a little enviously. I realized how marathons offer us all a way to concretely chase our dreams. They give us the opportunity to honor ourselves and our human bodies. Marathons give us some confidence that we do have something remarkable inside.

Oh, I love marathons.

Coming to Terms….

2010-11-03T20:32:00.001-04:00

I have been so lucky with this little pregnancy experiment- KNOCK ON WOOD! (Seeing that I still have 2 plus months to go, I cannot be jinxing myself.) No morning sickness, no major issues except for suspected placenta previa that seems to have cured itself…. and, I am still running… and spinning….. but not doing much yoga which I thought I would end up doing a ton of. I have always admired those mystical women in articles who tout yoga as the key to their pregnancies and deliveries, but have made zero effort to become zen like as they are.

Certainly, it has been a transitional time. I ran the Boston marathon, had a great race and then BOOM- unexpected pregnancy. I went from being in the best shape of my life to having another life take over me. Initially, as I thought my running was interfering with both getting and staying pregnant, I had planned that I would not run throughout my pregnancy. However, I was teaching a “Learn to Run” class and had no choice but to keep running. So along I went.

I slowed down a lot and definitely cut down on the distance. But, in the first few months, that was easy. Yes, I was being selfish in my own little way complaining about how slow I became, and of course, now I am realizing that I should have been grateful that at least it felt easy then. My husband snapped this picture of me on the treadmill on Sunday. Do you think running with this body is easy?

Well, it is not….. and it is getting hard to stay motivated to keep going! I go through lots of thoughts regarding what I am trying to prove to both myself and others.

I know that I am totally whiny today and am actually very fortunate that my body is allowing me to actually run. But, I am also starting to realize that these challenges are just the tip of the iceberg of the challenges I will face in 2011, and that fact is perhaps making me even more on edge.

For now, I will keep running but try to come to terms with the fact that change is here. It is time to come to terms with it.

We Have the Power to Change Ourselves

2010-10-27T12:17:00.002-04:00

I admit, I stole this from Kara Goucher's blog. But, I loved this video and could not help but to repost it. We all have the power to change ourselves and be the creators of our own happiness. However, coming to this realization and then sticking with it is the hardest part of it all.

Registering for Boston Marathon 2011

2010-10-23T09:40:00.003-04:00

Monday, October 18th has been set as a reminder on my Outlook calendar for the past few months. Any time I scrolled forward to that week, I would see a little box on that date, set for 9AM, and marked "Register for Boston". I honestly was unsure of whether or not I would run Boston when I marked my calendar; afterall, it is less than three months after my due date. After an email from Mary a few weeks prior to the registration, I determined that I would register and then see how I felt postpartum. I have never had a child before, so I honestly don't know what I am in for. However, I felt like I needed something to work for, and Mary agreed to coach me through my recovery during those months.

Thus, Monday came and I opened up the BAA website right at 9AM. Of course, as we know from all the stories, the site was completely overwhelmed with people trying to register, and it was not working for me. I went back to my work, and looked at it a few hours later, using a website that my friend Jen posted on Facebook. (And, Jen is due in November with her first so she is just as zany as me!) During the process, I noticed that I checked a waiver stating that they were not allowing deferrals for this year for the first time. I hesitated at continuing, called my husband and father asking them to both promise to help me train for this thing by assisting me with childcare, and then clicked on. Nice- I was registered and thinking that I either had set myself up for a tremendous athletic feat or tremendous pressure three months postpartum.

I received texts, emails, phone calls, tweets and Facebook messages all day reminding me to register. Boston.com reported at lunchtime that the race was half filled, and in the evening, the messages turned into sad blurbs from friends and tweeters who did not make it into the race. I felt guilty for registering, knowing that on race day, I won't be 100% recovered from having the baby, and knowing that I will be 100% involved in the baby rather than marathon training. But, I realize that I cannot let my guilt get in the way. I earned that spot at Boston last year, and I have not been able to race this year as I have been pregnant since the marathon. I deserve a marathon.

Needless to say, I do think at time, "What have I gotten myself into?" Really, I don't have any idea what it is to be sleep deprived and have a screaming infant. But, in the back of my head, I know that having something that is so selfishly for me during this time will help me get through those months and help us adjust to life as a new family. And, I know I made a wise decision to have a running coach during this time. Mary has three kids and gets what I yet don't, so working with her will give me the confidence that I can make it to the finish line on Patriot's Day.

Boston 2011 will not be my best marathon- I have no illusions about that. I do feel that it will be the most challenging and rewarding though. And, it will be great to have Baby Ramsey at the finish line to greet me.

Playlist with No Name

2010-10-21T20:19:00.001-04:00

Playlist from class this morning- definite focus on hills today

✓ Thunder Road 4:48 Bruce Springsteen

✓ Ready to Go 5:01 Republica

✓ I Don't Wanna Be 3:38 Gavin DeGraw

✓ I'm Free (Moby Remix) 3:43 The Rolling Stones & Moby

✓ Unbelievable 3:31 EMF

✓ Gimme Shelter 4:34 The Rolling Stones

✓ Animal 3:32 Neon Trees

✓ Sweet Child O' Mine 5:56 Guns N' Roses

✓ How Far We've Come 3:31 Matchbox Twenty

✓ I Run for Life 4:22 Melissa Etheridge

✓ Here With Me 3:27 Dido No Angel Pop 3

There’s No Place Like Home

2010-10-19T19:44:00.001-04:00

Despite my recent world travels, there is no place like home. Courtney and I ran all over Europe, including an amazing predawn run along the Seine in Paris. But, at home, I looked forward to one thing. The first morning I was back to Hingham, I did one of my most favorite things- I ran with Cisco the dog. He is such a great running partner.

I know I am wearing a sweet outfit…. I am sure my husband appreciated my look when I showed up wearing more neon than the late 80s to the Presidential Fitness Challenge for kids that he helped to organize. (I am also sporting bright pink socks if it is not apparent in the picture.)

Cisco and I traveled almost four miles, and then I went to the gym to run over four more. Slowing down my speed has made the pain I have been experiencing really subside. Now, running is really enjoyable. I feel like I am accomplishing so much.

Though I did not wear my lovely outfit, I was in all my spandexed glory at the gym. I belong to a gym where many girls do the elliptical while talking to each other and wearing sweats with words on their rearends. It is certainly not the most fancy place, but it is inexpensive, and I don’t really know anyone there. Therefore, I get there, do my workout and get out. Efficient! Lately, I have been definitely receiving stares there, like who is the crazy pregnant lady in spandex running on the treadmill. But, since I don’t know anyone, I really just do not care.

Needless to say, I was SO pumped that I ran almost 8 miles that day. I have not been able to run that far in months…. but now I realize that I probably could have been was just holding back.

I was reading the new Runners’ World today and loved the article on Bart Yasso. It stated that he accepted his limitations as he struggled with Lyme Disease and who “when he realized he couldn’t run fast anymore, ran slow and found joy in that.” This thought really resonated with me. Running for me right now means surrendering to the limitations that my body is placing on me. Yet, instead of making me more frustrated, running has made me more forgiving of myself.

Last day in Istanbul

2010-10-15T17:33:00.004-04:00

Running in Rome

2010-10-09T13:16:00.001-04:00

I love visiting new cities, and one the of many perks of my full time employment is this opportunity. Arriving in a new city means new explorations and new experiences, and should life be measured by these, it is wise to treasure each one.

Since 2007, I have traveled to Europe each fall representing my institution. Running in each city has become somewhat of a tradition. I have run past the Prado in Madrid, along the banks of the Seine and most recently in Hyde Park among many others. For the first time,, I was able to experience running in Rome. My work travels brought me here, and I immediately seized the opportunity to add this marvel to my list.

Courtney, my travel partner, and I decided to forgo our run on Friday. We worked straight through the day (yes, I promise we do work on these trips) and could not resist the call of Italian pasta for a late lunch. Needless to say, being just a few days short of 6 1/2 months pregnant, lunch was quite necessary. After filling ourselves full of lovely Italian carbohydrates, we spent much time walking and traversing the city.

However, Saturday morning we needed to run. We headed from our hotel and into the Villa Borghese. This park is quite hilly, and I must have looked like quite the site as my pregnant belly in all its spandex glory slowly trudged up its hills. Though I did not manage another 10K, we did complete 5 miles in 48 minutes. Clearly, the hills and all our walking from the day before slowed me considerably. The mission was complete though, and we ended our time in Rome in a fitting manner.

I sit on the train to Milan right now, wondering when my next run will be. What will I encounter next?

Another 10K

2010-10-07T05:16:00.004-04:00

Just when I thought I would have to start cutting down, I have managed to run two 10KS this week.... Typically, that is nothing in a week. However, I am finding that if I go slower, I have less issues with the pelvic stretching. Go figure! Who knew it would be that simple.

I am still in London, but my colleague Courtney had her I Pod sensor to measure the mileage. We ran through Kensington and into Hyde Park, visiting Peter along the way.

Peter Pan is so magical- love him!

All in all, we completed 6 miles at a 9:15 pace. I was super impressed with myself again. And very grateful to Courtney as she was willing to run with me and the belly.

Running in Kilometers

2010-10-05T16:58:00.001-04:00

One week home, and now another two weeks back in hotels….. Although I hate leaving my husband and golden, I am terribly lucky that this trip brings me to Europe. Right now, I am in London, where the weather is misty and the hotel gym is not that bad!

I spend a lot of time in the fall visiting hotel gyms. Some are downright terrible and do not even deserve the gym moniker. Courtney, my travel partner, reminded me of the time last fall when the gym at our hotel in Paris was heated. Yes, it was about 95 degrees in there- like running in the middle of the day during the summer! Others are amazing- the Sheraton gym in New Orleans comes to mind.

A challenge is always presented when running on a treadmill in a country that is not the US; the darn thing is in kilometers. I am dreadful at math, so trying to figure out how many kilometers equals a mile is awful. But, trying to calculate how many kilometers per hour equals how many minutes per mile is a whole other disaster, and one that I cannot figure out still after all these travel seasons.

However, the kilometers per hour dilemma gave me a break from focusing on the numbers. Being pregnant, running on the treadmill means a constant reminder of how much slower I am pace-wise and how I am only hitting 3.5 miles when I typically have completed four. Without even consciously choosing to think these things, I do it as the NUMBERS are directly in front of me. Today, when I was running on the treadmill at the hotel gym, I received a much needed break from this mind game as I could not calculate the numbers. Yes, I was faced with it at the 5K mark and the 10K mark, but it only happened twice. Other times I could not figure it out and was forced to ignore it.

Numbers are a great training tool. We know how many miles we should run on a long run during training season. We use splits to help us determine a predicted race time. Numbers assist us with goal setting.

I am an athlete in a bit of a rest period right now. And, not being able to see the numbers gave me two gifts today. First, I was able to give myself a break mentally. Second, my run was just for pure exercise and enjoyment. I ran because I could. I ran because I liked it. (And, my whole issue with the stretching ligaments in the pelvic area was not as bad because I was not pushing as fast…. talk about learning to listen to your body!)

How many times have I let myself become wrapped up in the numbers game with running? How can I use the next three months as a time to focus on running by feel rather than running by the numbers? So many things to consider…..

On a less serious note, pictures from after the workout today…. the belly is getting huge….

And, a lovely sweaty shot of me after the run…..

I promise I do clean myself up at times…. Here is a picture from our friend’s wedding this weekend.

Fall Travel Season Has Arrived

2010-09-26T20:15:00.003-04:00

For the past five Septembers, my life gets completely thrown up in the air. My job requires that I spend most of the fall traveling, visiting high schools in the US and Europe. Great fun- I love my job and meeting the kids and counselors! However, both my workout schedule and Internet time are severely disrupted. Yikes!

I traveled throughout the state of New Jersey for the past few weeks. Travel season is very busy. I typically leave the hotel around 7AM and get back anywhere from 8-10 PM. It makes for a long day! This year, I was EXTRA tired, and I think that week 24might have something to do with it.

Because I was at hotels and it was very early in the morning, every one of my workouts was done at the hotel gym. Secretly, I did not care because it allows me some quality time with the object of my affection- the treadmill. I realize that most people hate the treadmill, but I LOVE IT!!!!! It keeps me honest, and more importantly, I feel like a wimp if I don't reach my goals. It is the Jillian Michaels of my world. I also ventured to the elliptical which is highly unusual for me. Maddingly, I find lately that I cannot run two days in a row anymore. I am sore in the baby area the next day after a run- I am not sure why or if it means I need a maternity support belt.... all these things to figure out. But, what most shocked me was that I had solid workouts on the elliptical. It was not running, but I did not feel that it was without purpose.

I am home for a week until I head to Europe. I have so many thoughts swirling through my head right now that I cannot wait to have a little bit more time this week for a more reflective post.

I felt like a runner today….

2010-09-13T20:06:00.001-04:00

Workout- 5 miles, 45:50, on the treadmill

This morning, when I first got to work, I stumbled upon the Run Like A Mother Book blog via google reader. Here, Dimity, one of the authors, wrote how she decided while pregnaBant to run the Nike Women’s Marathon. She “needed something for me”. Reading her entry, I just got it so completely. Baby Ramsey is only about halfway there, but right now, I am itching for something that is for me. I read Liz’s blog and get jealous about her NYC marathon training in the same way that I used to read pregnancy blogs and feel wistful about that. Yes, I completely realize the irony of that!

When reading Dimity’s reflection today, I just got it. I may not love the limitations that pregnancy brings in terms of athletic pursuits, but I smile every time I realize that I will have a baby in January. And, then I smile even more when I think of the nice Bob stroller that I will be running with that little baby over the roads. This image is inspiring me to keep running, knowing that I can share this with my new companion as well as return to being me.

I was on the phone with a colleague close to my workout time and was totally thinking of ditching my run today. But, I was inspired by the post today and decided to head over to the gym to use the treadmill. I had ONE of the BEST runs that I have had since I was pregnant. Today I was not frustrated because I am slower than I once was. I was instead thinking of this as training for me runs to come. Base mileage if you will.

Most importantly, I felt like a runner today, instead of a pregnant lady. I had a little confidence that my life is not just all about carrying this little human, although certainly that is my most important task right now. I was a runner first in my mind for 45 minutes, and it was awesome.

Three Decent Workouts

2010-09-09T20:43:00.004-04:00

I REALLY hate not having anything to train for. I am trying the race once a month philosophy, but two realities are hitting me hard. First, I cannot work on pace. I just need to run right now. Next, I am not a superhero woman who will run a marathon or even a half while she is pregnant. It was a long road to this baby. Though I am assured that the baby will not fall out of me running, I cannot imagine running at my current pace for that many miles. Thus, I am limited to 10Ks or less, which is not really a challenge.

But, I keep trudging along with it. This week, so far, I have taught Spinning on Tuesday,which was awesome. (Yes, I realize it is smug to say it was a good class! But we really kicked butt that day.)

Here is the playlist:

Sunday Morning 4:05 Maroon 5
Mr. Brightside 3:43 The Killers
Viva! (Orion Mix) 3:16 Bond
Sun Is Shining (Radio Mix) 3:02 Yanou
Just the Way You Are 3:41 Bruno Mars
Teenage Dream 3:48 Katy Perry
Stop for a Minute (Beatnick & K-Salaam Remix) [feat. K'naan] 4:26 Keane
Jump N' Move 3:19 The Brand New Heavies Featuring Jamalski Let's Never Stop Falling In Love 3:02 Pink Martini
Viva la Vida (Workout Mix) 4:35 Julian Marshall
So Lonely 4:48 The Police
Mine 3:51 Taylor Swift (Yes, using this song makes me a tween)

I know the instructor is know really supposed to get her workout in, but I have been trying to really work myself during the classes. Work at Babson has been busy, and I do not always have the chance to workout during lunch anymore.

On Wednesday, I had the opportunity to hit the gym. Unfortunately, the air was hot and heavy as our gym is not air conditioned and the treadmills are on the second floor. The temperature outside was not much better, and I figured this was my best option. So I hopped on, ran my four miles as that is all I can manage in the time and had crazy hair and flushed cheeks for the rest of the day. Even with taking a shower (no shampoo), I never quite cooled down. I hate when that happens!

This morning I woke up at 4:30, which has been an annoying habit of mine for the past few weeks. I have no clue why it is happening. Typically, I try to go back to sleep. I tried this unsuccessfully until I just got up at 5, ran 3 miles on the treadmill as it was rather dark and then took Cisco the dog outside for two more. Success- another workout snuck past a sleeping husband!

All of these workouts were okay, but not great. But, then my friend Courtney put it in perspective for me, reminding me that some pregnant people are not even allowed to exercise. Oh yes, I need to remember this and start being grateful that this baby belly can still run. It is permissible to have okay workouts. Not everday can be done at high intensity in a training cycle, so why am I thinking that this will happen in a pregnancy? I need to think of the pregnancy more as a base phase, where I am just building, trying to keep the engines going.

One picture- 21 weeks

I Know It's Not Far....

2010-09-05T21:05:00.002-04:00

But, it is something! I ran a little over 5 miles tonight. It was the perfect late summer night, cool but warm enough to still be dressed in a tank and a running skirt.... and a pregnant belly.

High School and Downtown
Find more Runs in Hingham, Massachusetts

Before I headed out, my husband asked how far I was going to go. I answered vaguely and headed along my way. He and my father spent some time together today, and both made each other more paranoid that running is going to cause the baby to fall out of me. I am not sure where these two received their medical degrees....

But, despite the feeling of having to pee the entire last half mile, I made it without this or any other calamity occuring. I am slow, but I am enjoying the fact that I am still out there.

End of Summer Classic- the Recap

2010-08-28T13:11:00.001-04:00

My little buddy Cisco and I are big fans of Bare Cove Park in Hingham. There are lots of trails, water views and many other dog friends to meet and greet. Plus, the entrance to the park is just over a mile from our house. What more can we ask for?

I love that he tucks his ears back in preparation for our run!

For the past two years, I have run in the End of Summer Classic sponsored by Marathon Sports. I am not a big fan of after work races, but this event is an exception as it is so close to my home. My husband joined me last year, and thus I picked him up at the train station this past Thursday before we headed to the race. It took all of two seconds to park as the station is directly across from the entrance of the park.

We picked up our numbers. As we had registered early (#59 and #60), we received two Mizuno technical shirts. They were short sleeve and white with this logo on the front:

I am a big fan of the technical shirt give away. It just seems so 1998 to give away cotton tee-shirts. However, I realize that most races still do, and that makes me appreciate the End of Summer Classic even more.

Because I am about to enter my 5th month of pregnancy (holy yikes!), there was no plan for the race but to enjoy it and take it easy. We lined up nearly at the end of the pack, allowing the faster runners to gain the better starting position. We definitely lost some time lining up so far back, but the point of the race was participation rather than a time goal. Plus, my husband did not seem to mind, even though I kept telling him to go ahead of me. I hated the fact that I knew I was slowing him down!

The race takes you along the river, and hits some actual trails. It was a very zenlike running experience for me. Just me, Bill, Baby Ramsey and a nice evening run- I realized I have much to be grateful for.

We finished in just over 47 minutes (and because I think it took us at least a minute to get over the starting line, probably 46 plus). The race committee had lots of barbeque foods, including pulled pork sandwiches. I am not a meat eater, but my carnivore husband enjoyed it thoroughly. Great race, great event, and one I look forward to being faster at next year!

We love this race and hope Baby Ramsey enjoyed it as well!

Hills, Hills, Hills

2010-08-24T21:46:00.001-04:00

This week’s playlist and profile is all about hills- steady hills, hill repeats, sprints on hills, you name it!

My Friend 5:00 Groove Armada

Barely Breathing 4:15 Duncan Sheik

Follow Through 4:00 Gavin DeGraw

Collide 4:09 Howie Day

I Don't Feel Like Dancin' (Radio Edit) 4:11 Scissor Sisters

Let Forever Be 3:42 The Chemical Brothers

The Mummers' Dance 6:11 Loreena McKennitt

Teenage Dream 3:48 Katy Perry

Honey (Faze Action Dub) 5:24 Tosca

Life Is Beautiful 6:15 Vega4

Worn Me Down 3:43 Rachael Yamagata

Ooh La La 2:58 Goldfrapp

I'll Melt With You 4:03 Nouvelle Vague

Dilemmas

2010-08-23T08:12:00.005-04:00

I love running. In fact, I even bought this lululemon bottle proclaiming my love for it.

Isn't she just adorable?

However, these days, our relationship is challenged as a someone intrudes on it. You may be thinking that it is Baby Ramsey..... but it is actually my husband Bill.

I preface this whole post by saying that I cannot imagine having a husband other than Bill. Isn't that the point of marriage, finding the one that we cannot live without? Plus, he pushes me to be a better and nicer person which is something that I truthfully need. He is also the reason that I started running. Before I met him, Bill had completed three Boston Marathons, and needless to say, as a nonrunner at the time, I was rather impressed.

Bill has been super supportive of all my marathoning and is truly my biggest cheerleader in all of my athletic endeavors. He is clearly the manager of Team Adrienne, toting bikes on cars and going to races. I am like his little protege who has done well.

But, my manager has been pulling back a bit. It was a long road to Baby Ramsey, and I think he is a little nervous that I am trying to stay active as I carry the little one around these months. My doctor has assured me that running is perfectly fine, and believe me, I am not running as far or as fast as I once was. But, Bill is ready for me to hang up the running sneakers for a bit. He is not convinced it is in the baby's best interest to keep running. Believe me, if the doctor told me I needed to give it up, I would it a heartbeat. But, she hasn't!

Meanwhile, I am ready to go. I am certainly frustrated by my lack of speed, but I still love the feeling that running gives me. Yesterday, even though it was raining, I was determined to get one in and ran 5 sweaty miles on my treadmill basement. It was awesome! I felt like a runner and not just a pregnant lady. But, Bill came down forty minutes into it to see how much longer I was going for. (For the record, it took me 46 minutes to run those 5 miles.... blah, but not bad for pregnancy!)

Then, when I came upstairs, it was a million questions and comments. How fast did I go? Was my stomach bouncing? Was it strenuous? Oh dear heavens, it was the inquisition. And, this is what it is like everytime I come back from a run. Therefore, I have been avoiding runs to avoid the cross examination. (P.S. Bill is an attorney so it really is one!)

Now, I am starting to think of alternate strategies so that I can run. I have decided that I will run at work so that I can conveniently forget to mention it. Most wives hide their shopping habits- me, I have to be covert in my running. Oh goodness.... I am a crazy lady!

I realize that it must be frustrating for him as I am the sole one in charge of this baby right now. Only what happens with me will affect this baby at this point. That is not a feeling that I can relate to, and I certainly cannot understand what it must be like to have no control over your child's welfare. More importantly, I understand that I need to respect the fact that this baby is Bill's child as well, and not just mine. He should have leverage in the decisions I make throughout the pregnancy.

What a headache! It is a good thing that I love him so very much.

Wardrobe Malfunctions

2010-08-15T21:14:00.001-04:00

Well, I have hit 18 weeks of pregnancy. So far, so good. Baby Ramsey has not caused too much trouble for me yet!

Being the crazy woman that I am, I am determined to get through the next few weeks of summer with wearing my normal clothes. There are a few things that are on the taboo list, and I have been making do with some of my looser fitting clothing. For example, it was actually serendipity that I bought too big pants after completing a 20 miler in preparation for Boston. My things and butt were swollen when I went shopping that afternoon. They were big for awhile, but now they are accommodating the bulging belly.

I have one little problem though- I need longer workout shirts. Between the growing chest and stomach, I feel somewhat indecent. I need to cover up both the girls and the burgeoning baby. I remembered that my friend Polly loves the shirts by lucy, as they are longer than the normal shirt. With a little persuasion and a promise that he could visit the Yard House during my shopping, my husband agreed to head to Legacy Place in Dedham so I could visit the nearest lucy location.

I was not disappointed. A super cute girl named Beth helped me find some shirts that will stretch as I grow. I also found a pair of shorts that I think will work a little later down the road.

Here is the damage….

This top is definitely for yoga and spin…. Need a little bit more support for running.

These two will definitely work for running. They are very long right now so I hoping they will fit over the growing belly down the line.

Love that these shorts have a zip pocket in the back!

The other great part of lucy is that they offer a pro discount. I brought in a copy of my Spin Certification, filled out a form and received a card that gives me 30% off. It was painless and super easy.

Mission Accomplished

2010-08-07T14:15:00.004-04:00

I think my new attitude towards running is working a little bit. I headed to the gym this morning early before teaching Spin and was able to run 4 solid miles in 36 minutes. Slow for old Adrienne, but perfect and happy for current Adrienne. For the first time, I was happy after a run as I knew it was a part of my training!

Playlist for today at Spin- it was so random

Breathe Me 4:35 Sia

Unspeakable Joy (Razor N Guido Remix) 4:08 Kim English

I Like It (feat. Pitbull) 3:52 Enrique Iglesias

Love Generation (Featuring Gary Pine) [Bob Sinclar Radio Edit] 3:32

Familiar Feeling (Timo Maas Main Mix) 4:03 Moloko

Love's Divine 4:35 Seal

Sun Is Shining (Radio Mix) 3:02 Yanou

Stop for a Minute (Beatnick & K-Salaam Remix) [feat. K'naan] 4:26

What a Feeling 4:05 Irene Cara

Dreams 4:16 The Cranberries

Runnin' Down a Dream 4:23 Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers

You Get What You Give 5:01 New Radicals

Breathless 3:29 The Corrs

Brand New Day 6:20 Sting

End of Summer Classic

2010-08-05T21:39:00.002-04:00

It has been a frustrating summer running-wise. Although I am super excited to be expecting my first child, I am a completely different athlete now from the girl who ran 3:36 in a marathon less than 5 months ago. Has that much really changed in that short a period? Well, except the fact that I am growing a person?

I came out of that marathon feeling strong and very confident in abilities with excitement building for the short summer races. I wanted to go fast! Vroom!

Looking back, I remember running the end of the Providence Marathon with Liz and feeling that morning that I did not have my usual zip. It was awesome and such an honor to run with her during her first marathon that I shrugged it off. But, thinking about how I felt after Boston last year and running speedy 5Ks, and then thinking back to post-Boston this year, I should have known something was up.

At least what was up was great news!

But, and I know this is SO selfish, but a little part of me was missing. I love training for a race, even more than I love running the actual race itself. There is something so lovely about training plans and looking back on a week and seeing what one has accomplished. I love my L St buddies and escaping my house on Sunday morning. Although I complain about my lack of speed, I think I missed training even more. Even worse, I was losing major motivation and being a big Debbie Downer. What is that point of running if I don’t have a goal to work towards? Mrs. Negative Attitude- that was me!

This week, I came to a realization. I am not going to get any faster in the next few months, but only slower. So, what if I can adjust my goals? What if my goal can be to participate in one race a month until I deliver this baby? What if I can stop being discouraged about my lack of speed and start celebrating my healthy pregnancy? That can be my training goal- bingo!

Enter the End of Summer Classic.

This race through Bare Cove Park in Hingham and sponsored by Marathon Sports has become a favorite of mine. The first year the race was run, it advertised itself as a four miler. I remember crossing the finish line and thinking that I must have been very slow. (Looking at the results later, it turned out that the course was a little longer than four.)

Last year, my husband Bill ran it with me. The organizers extended the race to 5 miles, and it was such a great way to unwind after the workday. We ran and chatted and then met up with some friends at the post race party. That is another great thing about the race- it takes place during the week. So, on a summer night, you can go run by the water!

Plus, it would be so lame of me to miss a race that I have run every one of since its existence just because I am nervous that I will not be happy with my time. For that reason alone, the End of Summer Classic is not to be missed. I am glad that I can use it to start my new goals- run, enjoy and celebrate! Now, I just have a few more weeks to train for the race, and I know that this little goal will keep me motivated.

Let's Rock Playlist

2010-08-02T20:00:00.002-04:00

Well, maybe Christopher Cross does not count as rock, but it is still a great cool down song.....

______________________________________________________________________________

Let's Spend The Night Together 3:28 The Rolling Stones

Sweet Child O' Mine 5:56 Guns N' Roses

Right Now 5:22 Van Halen

Paranoid 2:48 Black Sabbath

Jessica 7:29 The Allman Brothers Band

Take Me Home Tonight 3:31 Eddie Money

It's My Life 3:51 Bon Jovi

More Than a Feeling 4:47 Boston Boston 1

We Belong 3:42 Pat Benatar Greatest Hits Rock

Sailing 4:15 Christopher Cross

Busy Bee

2010-07-19T20:59:00.001-04:00

The past week has been so busy. I work in college admission, specifically with international students, and this past Thursday through Sunday Boston hosted the 2010 Overseas Association for College Admission Counseling (OACAC) Annual Conference. Thank heavens that Northeastern University bore 90% of the responsibility! But, we at Babson hosted the almost 900 person group on Friday evening for a lobsterbake. Despite the storm that rolled through at one point, it was a successful evening.

Lots and lots of lobsters were served! Too bad I do not eat lobsters….

One of the great things about having the conference in my home city was that I could take my fellow running counselors for a little exploring. Friday morning, a few friends asked if I would guide them on a run. These are friends who think of me as a Boston Marathon runner, and not Mrs. Pregnant Runner, so I was a little nervous even though they were forewarned that I am not speedy these days. However, Anna reminded me that my slow is her good speed and out we set. We ran from NU down Mass Ave, and then turned onto the Charles River path towards downtown.

Even though it was 6 AM, it was rather humid already, so we just ran along at the new Adrienne pace, averaging just under 9 minute miles. Reaching the Hatch Shell, we turned around, running back to Mass Ave. Then, I took them for a little treat- we ran down Boylston so that we could cross the Boston Marathon finish line!

Stefano, one of the group, is currently training for his first marathon and wants to run the big event some day. I figured it would just be a little more inspiration for him! He thought about maybe coming up this year, but I am going to see if I can get him to hold off until next year in case this one does not pan out for me.

On that note, running has been so so….. Not really exciting, slow and now honestly, it is starting to be a little harder. I think it is mainly because I let my fitness go during the first trimester, since I was so nervous about miscarriage. So tonight found me having a date with the treadmill, and then I rounded out my 5 miles with a few more on the elliptical.

It is funny. I keep looking at my stomach to see if I look pregnant yet. I feel that it is a bit fuller, but I cannot really decide. Since I am crazy, it is almost as if once I feel like I am looking pregnant, I can cut myself a little more mental slack when it comes to the workouts….

So, I leave you with belly shot #1. I promise I will not post too many….. And, I realize that I am sticking out my stomach a little bit so maybe it is not entirely accurate. But, I think I am starting to look a little bit preggers.

14 weeks of Baby Ramsey

P.S. I love working out in my Running Skirt. With the expanding waistline, it is way more comfortable than the elastic band of shorts.

Fourth of July Road Race Recap

2010-07-12T21:38:00.001-04:00

There is nothing like starting the day with a solid workout. Knowing that I’ve accomplished a few miles before most people have pressed start on the coffee machine gives me a little smugness. And, when you have accomplished these miles at a race, and then you get to go to barbeques and parade parties and eat whatever you want because of these miles, well, that makes me really smug….

For this reason, the Hingham Fourth of July Road Race goes down as one of the must do races for Adrienne each year.

I love this race. I anticipate seeing all my friends, Spinning students and running buddies, chatting it up with everyone before the gun goes off. Running down Main St never gets old, and because they striped the middle line red, white and blue instead of yellow this year, it gave me a whole new appreciation for this little town I live in. I am very easy to please like that!

Typically, I love this race because after the first congested mile, I can be speedy. I can run without abandon all the way back to my house. (My house is less than a quarter mile from the finish line!) It is freeing just to run by feel.

This year was a little different. After Boston, I typically run some great local 5 and 10Ks, turning in some decent times after the fitness I gained from marathon training. In a normal year, the Hingham race is my last good race before I relax for the summer.

Well, this year was not normal in the least….. I was running for two….

Yes, Baby Ramsey decided to run the race with me as well. So, being a nervous first time mother, I just wanted to get to the finish line. I ran slower than I ever did before. And, that was frustrating. I felt like I could run faster. But, I was nervous that Baby Ramsey was running with me as well. I was still in secrecy mode that the first trimester brings, and I just had to smile when some inquiring minds asked me if I was feeling well that day.

Truthfully, even though I wanted to run faster, I was feeling great! I loved that I had a little secret partner in crime, and I loved that I shared my all time favorite race with my new addition.

Baby Ramsey seems to like running. I think we will go for a few more together as we spend the next few months together. The baby better learn sooner or later that the mama likes her runs.

Fourth of July in Pictures

2010-07-05T08:23:00.001-04:00

Paul McCann’s 70th Birthday Celebration

Yes, Hingham striped the last mile of the race with this

instead of a yellow line

Polly and her son Tim- his first road race and he beat mom!

Allison and her dad Paul- her first race since having her son

L St Buddies- Me, Mac and Colleen

The Finish Line

Cisco the Patriotic Golden

Race recap to come!

Fourth of July Spinning Mix

2010-07-02T08:04:00.001-04:00

American Honey 3:45 Lady Antebellum

American Baby 4:35 Dave Matthews Band

American Boy (feat. Kanye West) 4:45 Estelle Shine

A Fun Little Mix to Celebrate Independence Day

American Dream 4:29 Jakatta

Living in America 4:09 James Brown
1
America 4:19 Neil Diamond

Where the Stars and Stripes and the Eagle Fly 3:48 Aaron Tippin

American Girl 3:35 Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers

American Land 4:44 Bruce Springsteen

Pink Houses 4:44 John Mellencamp Words & Music

God Bless America 3:48 Celine Dion

An Old Standby

2010-06-16T07:34:00.000-04:00

Rec to Cushing
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Start off walking

3 minute run 1 minute walk times 2

then

4 minute run 1 minute walk to the end

Summer themed Playlist for Spin class

2010-06-09T21:06:00.001-04:00

Summertime 3:27 Kenny Chesney

Pocketful of Sunshine 3:23 Natasha Bedingfield

Soak Up the Sun 4:52 Sheryl Crow

Hot Stuff 5:15 Donna Summer

Iko Iko 3:16 Captain Jack

In the Summertime 3:33 Mungo Jerry

Hope 3:48 Shaggy

The Girl from Ipanema 5:52 Astrud Gilberto

Fire Burning 4:03 Sean Kingston

Hot Hot Hot (New Club Mix) 5:50 Buster Poindexter

Lucky (feat. Colbie Caillat) 3:10 Jason Mraz

American Honey 3:45 Lady Antebellum Need You Now Country

Improvising

2010-06-09T20:16:00.002-04:00

Tonight our little group had to improvise. While I would run in a blizzard or a downpour (and I have done it in both), I am a little bit more cautious when it comes to my running ladies. As a coach, it is important that I encourage my students to push through adverse conditions. My job is to motivate and to make sure that we do not slack off. There is nothing worse than a coach that tells you NOT to work out!

However, I am like a worried mother when it comes to my charges. I don't want anyone to get sick from the rain. MORE IMPORTANTLY, I see the slime that pollen and rain creates on a sidewalk and I worry that a student will slip and fall because of it. Our race is less than a month away! I just cannot have that!

We went to plan B tonight. The small group that braved the rain and came tonight were such troopers. They agreed to head with me to the Spin room and get some quality intervals in. We may not always hit the planned path to the goal, but we can ALWAYS make it to the goal. Thank you ladies for understanding!

I have faced this problem myself before. Two weeks before Boston, I hurt my back. Like, OMG, I cannot twist to the side. I rode that Spin bike into the ground as I could not run- it hurt way too much! Moral of the story- I kept my fitness, my sanity and I ran Boston in my best time ever. I did not let a little detour keep me from achieving my goal.

_____________________________________________________________

Running students- run 2 miles either tomorrow or Friday morning. Saturday, we will meet at the Rec at 7:30 and head to the middle school and run back.

Tonight's Run

2010-06-09T15:24:00.001-04:00

And, it is not our first four miler- it is just titled that way!

Our First Four Miler- to 3A and Back
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Become a faster runner

2010-06-08T15:17:00.000-04:00

Check out this article for some tips! I think we are doing them all.

Two Options for tomorrow

2010-06-04T07:51:00.002-04:00

Ladies, we are running most of the race tomorrow. Here are your two options. Whichever one you pick is fine. Also, the mapping does not take into account the curves in the sidewalk, so the distances are actually longer than posted.

Option #1- Middle School to Rec

Middle School to Rec
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Option #2- Middle School to Garrison

Middle School to Garrison
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To Do Lists

2010-06-01T20:33:00.001-04:00

I feel like my life is dominated by to do lists lately. Things have been super busy in my personal and professional lives. Unfortunately, the only way I seem to handle it is by making a list. This trick appears to make some order out of the frantic nature of my life lately.

Last week, I was privileged to attend a professional conference in Newport, and then this girl was even luckier to attend our friend Dave and Abha’s wedding. The couple had a traditional Indian wedding, an experience that was completely new to me. Abha even allowed me to participate in the ceremony, as I was selected as the married woman to wish her well representing Dave’s side. Thank you, Abha! It is an experience that I will never forget.

Journeying down to Newport for five days involved a lot of lists…. for various things. But, it was worth it. (Even though I forgot my coat!)

Here is a picture from the wedding of Bill and I

Can you tell it was an outdoor wedding from all the sun we got on our faces? Yes, sunblock was also forgotten on the list.

The biggest problem with all my lists right now is that I am scrambling to find time for my own workouts. Sure, I get in my all my classes that I teach a week, but I need some sweat time. I am starting to realize how grumpy it is making me, and that my little Adrienne world would be a better place if I included them on my list.

I guess the TO DO list is about to become longer, but at least it will be a bit easier to tackle.

______________________________________________________

Running students- tomorrow is track night!

Warmup- Run 3 minutes- 1 minute walk- run 4 minutes- 1 minute walk- repeat

SATURDAY- meet at the Rec at 7:30AM. Drive to middle school. Run/walk back to Rec. Enjoy the scenery and take our time!

Tonight's Run

2010-05-25T09:23:00.003-04:00

Rec to Cushing
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The route is mapped a little short- it is really about 4 miles though.

3 minutes run/1 minute walk repeat

I want everyone to be on there feet to night for about 50 minutes. Thus, distance is not our priority this evening. The plan is to run/walk out 25 minutes and the turn around and head back. It does not matter where you get to, but only that you are out there for the 50 minutes.

See you tonight!

Homework for Running Students

2010-05-23T13:26:00.002-04:00

Map out 1 mile.

Run/walk the mile, running more than walking.

Take a breather! Walk around a bit.

Run/walk back the . Again, more running that walking!

See you TUESDAY at 7:00!

Saturday Morning at 7:30

2010-05-21T16:25:00.001-04:00

Rec to Church on Main- 3 miles
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Track Workout Tonight

2010-05-20T16:05:00.001-04:00

5 minute warm up
2 minute run
1 minute walk
3 minute run
1 minute walk
X seven

See you at 7!

Scatterbrained

2010-05-18T21:50:00.003-04:00

I am having one of those weeks where nothing seems to be falling into place. Nothing bad has happened- thank goodness for that. But, I feel like I am being pulled in 30,000 different directions. Note to self- no more super busy work weeks and a mother-in-law moving out of house where she raised children in during the same week. And, that is only the base of my little iceburg. MD appointments, board meetings and a few other things are making it even more hectic.

What makes it worse is that typically, I can get through these types of week with exercise. It gives me the time to reorganize my head and also a chance to decompress. Swimming has been my little goal lately, and the POOL AT WORK IS CLOSED THIS WEEK! Nights have been so busy, and the only free time for me to exercise is lunchtime. BUT THE POOL IS CLOSED! Whew, I feel better realizing that I just screamed it out in capital letters.

Funny thing- my time lately has not really been mine, so I am being a bit more unselfish this week. Yet, a realization has dawned on me. My interactions with others are actually better when I am a bit selfish. My head is calmer and I am more present.

That being said, I am looking forward to seeing my runners on Thursday evening and Friday morning.... Yes! I have to exercise and my head will not be so scattered....

Now, I need to get ready to fly to Baltimore for a day tomorrow.... yes, I told you this was a crazy week....

Sunday Route

2010-05-15T17:02:00.001-04:00

Wompatuck Run
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Class Moved to Sunday

2010-05-14T09:46:00.001-04:00

For running class, class is moved to Sunday at 8AM. I sent an email out, but just in case you are checking the blog!

Remember, homework was 5 minute warmup, 1 minute run, 1 minute walk, 2 minute run, 1 minute walk, 3 minute run, 1 minute walk, 4 minute run, 1 minute walk, 3 minute run, 1 minute walk, 2 minute run, 1 minute walk, 1 minute run, 3 minute walk to cooldown

Email me at adrienne.ramsey@gmail.com if you have any questions!

Same old route

2010-05-12T12:44:00.002-04:00

We are going to continue up Main St tonight and return to the Rec. Depending on the weather and other things, we will do one of either route.

Option 1- Rec to Cushing and Back

Rec to Cushing
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or Option 2- Rec to Church

Rec to Church
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The runs might be a bit more in mileage- I am not very good at using mapmyrun!

Tonight- 5 minutes walk, then 2 minutes on, 1 minute walk and repeat!

Fearful

2010-05-09T16:56:00.001-04:00

I really enjoy working with my swim coach Mary. In just two weeks, my knowledge about swimming has grown twenty fold. I also do not dread swimming now, as she has given me lots of drills to incorporate, which breaks up the monotony of swimming laps.

Mary asked me on Friday what are some things that I would like to work on, and I replied “Flipturn.” If I could do a flipturn, then I would feel like a real swimmer. Currently, I am a poser with a speedo bikini. However, since I was a little lady, I have had a deep fear of getting water up my nose. I have NEVER done a somersault in the water without holding my nose since I dread this feeling. Learning to dive when I was younger was particularly challenging.

Instead of telling me that it would be too hard with my fear of getting water up my nose, Mary just told me how I could do it and not get water in my nose. She then demonstrated how I could lead into learning this technique and told me to do. I immediately put up my defenses and told her that I could not do it. Mary encouraged me to just try it, and there was not choice but to. Pessimism was my friend, and I was certain that water would be up my nose in no time.

Big surprise- it worked. Really? It was that easy? And, this was something that for 31 years or so I have been avoiding?

Moral of story- my coach showed me how to conquer my fear and then gave me the push that I needed to do it. I realize that I need to place myself in more situations where I am willing to take risks. What else do I avoid simply because I think I cannot?

Today, I went to the pool in Weymouth and guess what? I did lots of somersaults and did not get any water up my nose!

_________________________________________________

Great work yesterday to my running class! You pushed it up the hill and more important, you were there despite the weather forecast!

Running class homework- 5 minute warm up of a walk, 2 minute run, 1 minute walk for 30 minutes

Hill Work

2010-05-07T20:54:00.002-04:00

Tomorrow morning we will focus on hill work to make us stronger. Here is the route

Garrison to Water
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2 minutes on, 1 minute off repeat!

"Many people shy away from hills. They make it easy on themselves, but that limits their improvement. The more you repeat something, the stronger you get."

JOE CATALANO

Running Community

2010-05-05T21:15:00.001-04:00

I absolutely loved running with Liz as she completed her first marathon. Liz, thank you again for letting me be a part of the experience!

Recapping the day for the blog caused me to reflect much on how we support each other in the running community. I never ceased to be amazed at the wonderful friends I have made through this simple sport. Words that are hard to speak come out during those long runs. The problems of my heart have been solved countless times. Sometimes I wonder if it is because I do not have to speak them face to face, but rather side by side.

Leann and I before this year’s marathon. Yes, I went spray tanning… It makes me feel more confident!

I immediately thought of my friend Leann when I read this blog entry by Kristin Armstrong. Leann and I met through running club and coincidently had a mutual friend. Fate brought us together I guess!

Kristin writes in her post,

“Just like you can never really help someone run (in the literal sense -it has to come from their own body, their own strength), you can't really help someone endure in any sense of the word. But you can run beside someone. Sometimes your words can offer insight, levity, or community. But most of the time the solidarity of your silence, the sound of the footfalls and the breathing, is the greatest comfort in the world - knowing that there are people alongside you in your journey. “

Leann has run me through my share of heartbreak (and a few bad falls over the years). There is something so sturdy and reassuring knowing that she will be there for me every Sunday morning when we have to run miles and miles in the cold while everyone else sips coffee and eats pancakes.

But, don’t get me wrong. It is not simply healing that can arise out of our running communities. We gain confidence as we progress with the help of others. Our calendars mark when we will meet a friend or a group, and there is a sense of importance to that meeting. Taking care of yourself becomes a priority and is acceptable. More importantly, the running community has taught me that the world is full of goodhearted people. Our goals may be different, but our encouragement to get to them never differs. Times don’t matter, but seeing a friend accomplish hers means more than one’s own. I have shed some tears, but I have enjoyed myself far more than I would have ever imagined. I have learned that both friends and mere acquaintances are alongside me for my journey. We cannot run for each other but we DO run with one another.

_____________________________________________________

Running students- great night tonight! I loved seeing each and every one of you push yourself. It was awesome to see everyone focusing of herself.

Here is your homework- 35 minutes of running and walking. Do it by feel. You can use the one minute on, one minute off plan if that works for you. Or, run till you need to walk and then run again!

3 Ways to Improve Your Running Form | Active.com

2010-05-05T08:43:00.000-04:00

3 Ways to Improve Your Running Form | Active.com

Providence Marathon Recap

2010-05-04T22:15:00.002-04:00

I have run a marathon the last three years, but I have not been a spectator at one since the 2005 Boston Marathon. That year, my friend Katie served a delicious brunch before we headed into Boylston, we hung out at Lir all day not really watching the marathon, and then the day ended with a trip to Ben and Jerry’s. Those were good times.

Needless to say, I have fond memories of watching a runner tackle the distance. We BC students never missed Marathon Monday, and true to form, headed out each one to cheer on the runners. It was exiting to see the elites roar by us, inspiring to see the Hoyts and amazing to watch the ordinary person be so close to their goal.

Running Boston the last few years has certainly put a kink into my love of spectating. When Courtney shared that she was going to head to Providence to watch Liz run her first marathon, I invited myself. I have been following Liz’s training on her blog and knew how awesome it would be to watch her complete her first marathon. I also am so pushy that I volunteered to run with her if she needed me to. Can you tell that I am the oldest child?

Courtney and I escaped “Don’t Drink the Water” Boston early Sunday morning and headed to Providence. We did not make the start, but the race course is open to traffic so we were able to find Liz rather easily. We saw her first at about Mile 5/6ish and headed up to mile 8 where we set up cheering section number one. Immediately, I noticed how hot it was…. and humid. Yikes, a rough day to run a marathon!

Here is Court- isn’t she so cute?

We saw a few of my L St friends pass us and then Liz came along! We were loud and crazy and very excited. I am sure that other people thought we were annoying, but who cares! It was our friend’s first marathon. Court and I then hopped in the car, and I managed to take a few pictures along the route. I was psyched to see Liz smiling at this point.

I also saw my L St Friend Rahsaan. He always look like a gazelle running.

I wish I could emulate his stride.

And yes, he is smiling as well!

Court and I then went to the park that is right past mile 10 and rejoins the main road at about mile 19. I drank coffee, and we chatted about who knows what, waiting for the runners

And they came! Here is the first overall….

And the first female

Court and I then proceeded to tell every female what place she was in for the next ten runners. We are all about Girl Power! Yes, please let us emulate the Spice Girls.

Some more of my L St friends came through….

Joe, on his way to both a PR and BQ

Rahsaan, again

Jess and Kerry

We then saw Liz come along and cheered her through. Court dropped me off at a little after mile 19, and Liz kindly let me join her on the route. I had the privilege of running with her for the rest of the race.

For Liz, the last few miles of the marathon were hard. She already had a solid 20 miles under her belt. I was there just two weeks earlier, and the memory of how it felt was very fresh. It was such a different experience to be joining the marathon at the end when I had fresh legs. Liz’s brother Mike also ran with us and her husband Dave rode a bike while we ran. All Star team! Fun for us as it was very social, but poor Liz having to deal with all our chatter.

She poured water over her head, I promise!

The Providence Marathon runs along a bike path for a chunk of the race, and I was fortunate that the leg that I ran with Liz was on it. I NEVER knew that Providence had such a beautiful bike path. I really enjoyed running along it. Secretly, I was also thinking that I did not have to run when I got home. Liz was great; she was a real trooper. She knew her goal was in sight, and she was not going to give it up. I felt such a sense of community while running her. Each one of us really wanted her to break her goal of 4:30. Based on where she was at, even with some walk breaks, she could do this. Our job was to get her to the finish line.

Guess what! And this is gun time, not chip time!

Yes, she did!

Lots of lessons learned from the day about friendship, running and persistence….. It deserves an entire other blogpost. Thank you, Liz, for allowing me to be a part of your first marathon!

Tomorrow’s Training Session

2010-05-04T18:21:00.001-04:00

I still owe the blog a recap on the Providence Marathon. For now, here is the workout for tomorrow.

We will meet behind the Rec on the little gravel track. Track workouts CAN be boring, but you will have me and each other to entertain you. And, you can bring your I Pods if you want as well!

Track workouts are like putting money in the bank. We run at an uncomfortable pace so that the casual jog seems that much easier. Yes, I want you to RUN when you are doing these. Then, you will slow walk to recover.

Here is the breakdown:

Minutes 1-5: Walk
5-6: Run
6-7: Walk
7-8: Run
8-9: Walk
9-10: Run
10-11: Walk
11-12: Run
13-14: Walk
14-15: Run
15-17: Walk/Grab water
17-19: Run
19-20: Walk
20-22: Run
22-23: Walk
23-25: Run
25-26: Walk
26-28: Run
28-29: Walk
29-31: Run

We will then rest and I am going to issue a challenge to everyone!

Love this Quote

2010-05-02T22:23:00.001-04:00

"Ability is what you're capable of doing.

Motivation determines what you do.

Attitude determines how well you do it."

Lou Holtz

Lots to post tomorrow- I ran the last miles of the Providence Marathon with my friend Liz of http://foodtorunfor.blogspot.com/. She did great! I have never run in a marathon that I was not racing, so it was a very cool experience. Liz, it was a privilege to run with you during your first marathon!

May Day

2010-05-01T18:43:00.001-04:00

Waking up this morning, I peered out the window and saw the sun shining. Perfect! Today was the second meeting of our running class, and after running last Wednesday in the rain, I welcomed the nice weather. Sure thing about New England, our weather is always changing.

I left my house and got in a few quick miles before I joined my class. There is nothing like an early morning run in a picturesque New England town. My students and I headed up Main Street towards the church. It was a glorious morning indeed. We focused on running for a minute and then walking for a minute. I am a woman of habits, and I love repetition and following a plan to get to a desired result. I adore the formulas of baking and shy away from the creativity of cooking. I am just like that.

Students, here is your homework- 30 minutes of run/walk. Run by feel

And now on to me………………….

I decided that postmarathon, I would work on some new goals. At one point in my life, I wanted to be a runner. For years, I did nothing about it. And then, I started working out, and becoming a runner became an achievable goal.

Now, I have major triathlete envy. Big time- I love reading triathlon blogs, and I love looking at the sculpted arms of these athletes. Running does not give me any sort of upper body strength, and I am jealous. Furthermore, it is time for a new goal. I adore running, and it will always be my best friend. However, I am well acquainted with it and I need to challenge myself a bit more. I need something else so that I can appreciate running more as well.

I am not going to morph into a triathlete overnight. I know I can run, but I need some serious work on the other two disciplines. Biking is definitely not my strength either, but swimming and I live on different planets. Swimming is all about technique, and that is all I know about swimming. I have no concept of what I need to do to get better.

Enter Mary. Mary has agreed to be my swim instructor. We met for the first time on Friday, and I had so much fun. I learned a great deal about swimming, and more important, I am athletically reinvigorated. I am doing something proactive about my triathlon envy. Now, my goal for the summer is to gain confidence in my swimming. Every time I have attempted the triathlon, I have been content to just get at the back of the back so that I do not get trampled on. My hope is that I can get in the water at the next one and swim with confidence. I just need to win the mind game that I play with myself.

Having a coach is going to help me tremendously. She gave me some things to work on, and I know I will work harder knowing that I am accountable to someone. I am happy with myself as well. Instead of just saying that I want to be a triathlete and doing nothing about it, I am taking steps toward this goal. It is a long term plan, but I am starting the small steps.

I leave you with some pictures from the marathon.

My Framingham Cheering Section- thanks to Olivia for the sign!

Right before the Newton Hills- pure joy- what a great day!

May 1 Run

2010-05-01T07:17:00.001-04:00

Rec to Church on Main- 3 miles
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5 minute walk to warmup.

then 1 1/2 minute walk followed by 1 minute run

It is about time on feet, and not how far we go!

First Running Class Recap

2010-04-29T18:47:00.002-04:00

Last night, we kicked off Hingham Road Race training with our first Learn to Run class. We have a big class, which is exciting! We have a big class, which is scary, as I have to learn 90% of the names!

We headed out despite the weather. We have made a commitment, ladies, and our journey to the finish line on July 4th will happen no matter what the forecast is.

Great first time out there with me! It is important to take it easy these first few weeks while we acclimate our bodies. More important, we must not be our own first critics. Running is not about being fast or keeping up; instead, it is about a commitment to our health and ourselves. Appreciate what you are doing for both your body and soul- this, my friends, is what matters most!

You have all made the decision to have a coach to get you to your goal. Coaches are great as they make one accountable and also help to set milestones along the way. Tomorrow, your coach is starting with a swim coach. Like you, I realize that I will be much better off if I get some guidance in my quest to become better at a discipline. More on this later!

As a reminder, here is your homework- 20-40 minutes of ACTIVITY! It can be walking, riding your bike,etc. Just get your body moving!

Saturday's run will be an out and back, not a loop this time. We will journey out for 15 minutes, and then no matter where you are, head back for another fifteen. This way, we all start and finish together!