This Week's Running -- 5.2, 5.3, and 6.1 of Bridge to 10K

For those of you who know me well, you know I'm afraid of goats.  You might wonder why I have goats as my picture.  I suppose you will have to read on...

5.2 re-run --As you read, I did not have a good 5.2.  It was so defeating.  Monday I was leery to run again, but I had to try.  I wondered if I had reached my limit, unable to push myself further.  As I ran, I was thrilled at how well it was going.  I was waiting to crumble, and it never came.  HOORAY!  As I ran, I was able to enjoy something pretty fun.  As you know from previous blog posts, the park I run around has a separate section devoted to a dog park.  Because of this, plenty of people bring their dogs to the not-dog park.  (And pretend it's the dog park, which I will complain about until my face turns blue.  haha) 

This day, it was like the scene from 101 Dalmations where Pongo is watching the dogs and owners walk by, the owners looking exactly like human versions of their dogs.  Today was like that!  I almost laughed at the first man, with his Pug.  Then the athletic girl and her Boxer... The portly fellow with his Chow.  And finally the white, largely poofy haired lady with her large Poodle, hair cut the same as her own.  It was awesome.  Truly. 


5.3 - The Stomach Cramp of Death  --This run started out amazingly well.  I felt like I was on an upward trend in my running.  It felt so good.  I ran and ran.  During one of my laps, I saw a little black mouse cruising around the parking lot, so I ran over toward it, only to discover it was an ENORMOUS black spider.  *willies*  I am not afraid of spiders, but this one was alarming large.  Literally the size of a small mouse.  *shiver* 

Over the course of the run, I weakened, but then a second wind kicked in.  I had a smile on my face.  I was nearing the end of my last lap.  I knew I was going to have an amazing finish.  Then suddenly a side ache kicked in.  HARD.  It was a terrible surprise!  I couldn't believe how bad it felt.  I tried the tricks I've learned to rid myself of side aches.  I lifted my arms up, stretching out my sides, I slowed to a walk, the pain increasing, and finally, stopped.  I doubled over in pain, not wanting it to show, but unable to keep the pain from showing outwardly.  I finally understand the term "side-splitting", and understand the photos of marathoners who have crumbled from a stomach cramp.  It was hideous.  (And, while lessened, lasted through the whole next day.)  I walked home, sad about the end of my run. 

6.1 - Nearly Graduated -- I woke up this morning, and set out for my run about a half an hour before the sun came up.  It was SO COLD at 51 degrees.  My brother in law, a super duper marathoner, has told me that you are only cold for the first mile.  This day I put it to the test.  My hands were chilled, and I was COLD.  But he was right.  After the first mile, I was fine.  I didn't notice.  Is that a good thing? 

I was supposed to run 60 minutes straight today, which is the length of the final run of Bridge to 10K.  It is amazing to already be here, even with the two weeks I had off from my hip injury.  I was thrilled at how well I ran.  The first lap, I noticed a man with two dogs.  We were the only ones in the park, and it made me nervous.  Slowly people started to trickle in, and I felt better.  Safety in numbers, right? 

By lap three, the sun was coming up, and I was able to see better.  I discovered that the man, with the two dogs, also had about 100 goats.  I noticed that the trailer he had hauled also had goats in it, and when I ran by, the goats would crane their heads out to watch me.  It totally made me laugh!  Why had I not noticed them before?  It was hilarious!  And I'm afraid of goats!  I was happy to make my fifth and final lap, where I asked the man (while running) what the goats were for.  I learned that it was Goat Days.  There is a farmer (or a few farmers?) who bring their goats to my town to clean out the brush in the parks once per year.  The kids love to watch the... kids (haha), and this year, they are giving out samples of goat products, which makes me happy since my wee one can't have cow dairy, but CAN have goat dairy.  Ending my lap, I was glad to be exiting the park as all of the soccer teams were arriving.  I ran home, thrilled to have successfully ran for 60 minutes without breaks.  I felt amazing.  I had increased my speed gradually throughout the run, and knew I must have ran at least 5 miles.

I was bummed to discover I "only" ran 4.6 miles, but really, it's an accomplishment.  I know it is. (I just have to increase my running 1.5 miles an hour to truly graduate.  That stinks.)  Over the next two (three) runs, I am excited to see if I can increase that distance.  Genuinely, I am really amazed that I can run for so long without wanting someone to shoot me.  I actually like it, and look forward to Monday.

In the mean time, I'm going to see a man about a goat. 

Ode to Soccer Moms -- Week 5 Day 2

Okay, it's not really an "ode", but it sounds good.

I set my alarm to get up early, knowing that our temps were supposed to be up to 100, or at least high 90's today.  I slept in instead.  I was having a gripping dream about thermally unstable hot springs.  I know. 

By the time I set out for my run, it was 58.  Jeff Galloway has said that once you run in over 60 degree temps, your core heats up faster.  I think I believe him.  Within 15 minutes it was 62.  By the end of my run it was 68.  But let me tell you about my run. 

I actually started out pretty nervous.  My last run didn't go well, and I had my self-doubts.  I really wanted to make this work.  I actually left my home feeling dehydrated, so drank a little, but didn't want to be sloshy.  I started running like normal, all was well.  Then I entered the park.

It was like hitting a brick wall. 

There were HUNDREDS of people.  I had gotten used to my quiet Saturday mornings in the park.  I would wave at my "usual" park maintenance guy.  By the third lap, The Captain's church tennis friends start playing and I wave at them.  Sometimes you get the weekend warrior doing a quick trial run through the park, and that's it.  It's so lovely, and peaceful.

There were people EVERYWHERE.  And it was still pretty early in the day!  There were 3-5 kids soccer games being played.  It was incredible.  For every child playing, there were 1-5 other people watching them.  I ran my first lap (of the projected four) dodging, literally, cars that were trying to drive up the trail.  I actually noticed people watching me.  Like really, really turn their heads and look watching me.  I pressed on.  After one lap, I was very dehydrated (note, temp check).  There was a drinking fountain just off the trail, so I tried to hydrate the best I could without losing time.  And hopped back on the path. 

Again, I dodged cars, trucks, people walking laps who possibly don't know courtesy of moving to a side of the trail (I sincerely don't mean to sound bitter - it was like the Twilight Zone.  I was invisible. -except to the staring onlookers.).  Twice I had to literally stop and wait for full sized SUV's to do a three-point turn.  Is there not a way for them to just pause and let me run by???  So strange.  This is how soccer moms get their reputation, I'm afraid.  Sigh...  Although many of my friends are soccer moms and quite lovely people...  It was a fight trying to run like a "normal person", but I was willing to give it a go.

I completed lap two, started on the third, ahead of schedule and saw stars.  I pondered whether these were dehydration stars or an anxiety attack from being around hundreds of people, stars. 

Dehydration. 

I walked home.  I was pleased that I went 2.25 miles in my time.  I believe, had I continued on pace, despite the ridiculous increase in temperature, I may have made at least 4.5 miles.  I wish it were more, but it was okay considering. 

Monday I will run 5.2 again, with a lot less people, and a lot less heat.  And I will hope beyond hope that it's a good run.  I need a good run.

And to the soccer moms reading this:  I envy you... I have one child not coordinated enough to play, and the one who is coordinated enough is not interested.  It looked like a lot of fun out there. 

After all, I've always wanted to make someone a human speed bump. *snicker*  Okay, just kidding. 

Game on.

The Dead Calm -- Week 5 Day 1 of Bridge to 10K

I don't even know where to begin.  We all have bad running days, right?  It's days like today that I wonder what business I have signing up for a half marathon.  I started out motivated enough.  It wasn't a lack of motivation. 

I started running at the running point just fine.  By the half mile point, I was tired.  I was literally wishing for a second wind, when the first hadn't even kicked in yet.  I noticed everything.  I couldn't focus.  I even noticed that the trail was warmer near the trees.  Seriously.  I did two laps before the halfway point, but it was a fight the whole way.  I did a third lap, and decided to head out to the cul-de-sacs.  I ran them all, stopping for an additional 1 minute walk when I had 10 minutes left (5.1 is 2, 22 minute runs with a 1 minute walk break in between, and a warm up and cool down. 55 minutes total.  Should be easy.).  I felt like I had been running for an eternity.  I hated every single moment of it.  Every one.  It was hard and frustrating.  Where was my power?  Where was my wind?

Toward the end I passed a jogger moving slower than I was, tears pouring down her face, sorrow emanating from her.  Perhaps my first and second wind were given to her.  I surely hope so.  I didn't need today as much as she did. 

I will try again another day.  Today I will be glad for my 3.2 miles.  Another day the wind will fill my sails.

Running Faster and Jumping Higher -- 4.3 of Bridge to 10K

Today I was presented with a lovely surprise.  It was Auntie Outings day where my sister, ES, takes my kids for the morning, and they do whatever they feel.  Usually breakfast, sometimes video games.  Sometimes shopping.  ES asked me if I would go too.  This of course would mean giving up "me" time, but I confess I've always been curious about what the heck they do while they're out.  Lambie was pretty upset to learn I was going, and told me I was grounded from being her mom.  Except I could give her hugs.  I just couldn't tell her what to do.  That was Auntie's job.  Fine by me.

After a lovely breakfast, ES took me to a surprise shop.  I thought she needed to pick up a running item for herself, since she has taken up running as well.  You can imagine my surprise when she told me to pick out some shoes.  :)  The salesperson was very helpful, and we found a pair of Nike Pegasus that were perfect for me.  They are a little too raspberry pink for my tastes, but I don't care.  I have running shoes!  Real-live running shoes!  I put them on and ran around the store.  I was so excited.  I had already run that day (the 6.06 mile day), so I would have to wait until Monday. 

When I was a kid, I would always think new shoes made you run faster and jump higher.  I would go around my home running and jumping.  My poor mother.  And siblings.  I was so excited when Monday came and I could run in them.  I ran and ran and ran.  I paid attention to my ankles, ooooh'd over how straight my feet lined up with each step, how my pinky toes didn't fall asleep any more when I ran...  wonderful wonderful wonderful.  I would like to thank my sponsor. 

I did notice my bum hurting more.  Oh well.  I could always use a little more definition there.  And then the backs of my thighs.  Again, oh well.  And then my calves....  This is all good for me.  I am going to be a better, stronger runner.  I love that my feet are nestled in the shoes.  I love that my running was not so labored.  Hard still, yes, but I wasn't fighting with my feet and legs so much.  So thankful...

4.77 miles.  I am a happy runner. 

She's a Maneater -- Week 4 Day 2 of Bridge to 10K

(Pretend I wrote this Saturday the 3rd.)

I *should* have run yesterday. It was only Peach and I, but I was having a hard day. The day prior was horrible. There is no other way to describe it, and it is not an exaggeration.

I hate days like that. I think of when I worked at a bistro, as a young adult, and a coworker, T, said, "You have to make sure that the lipstick marks come off of the mugs. We don't need men to have another reason to hate us." Oh, what care we take in make sure men don't hate us... Yet, and this is my bitter self talking, what do men do to make sure we don't hate them? I fear I do not have a good track record with men. I have been in abusive relationships. Cheating (no, I don't mean kiss another girl while we're dating. But that's happened too.) relationships. Lies, pain, etc etc. I have seen good men fall. I have thought the line from Star Wars III many times in regards to previously good men, "You were supposed to be the chosen one!" Why oh why can't men live up to themselves? Forget expectations! Be the man you said you'd be. Be the person you are.

Two days ago, I had THREE men close to me do negative things of different severity that greatly impacted my being. Friday my mom encouraged me to go running, knowing how cathartic it is for me, and how healing. I didn't. Sorry Mom. Usually I listen to my mom. I swear I do.

I ran Saturday instead. I ran and I ran. I thought and I thought. I ran and ran and ran. And at one point my thoughts turned to my running, and I realized I was booking it! I mean, really, I was hauling booty down the trail! I wasn't feeling bad, so I kept it up. And I thought. I was mad. I was hurt. I was done. I wondered why men wonder why there are "angry chicks" in the world. I will tell you sometimes it takes a conscious effort to forgive the few good for all of the wrong doings of the used-to-be-good and the always-bad men.

I don't want to be a "maneater". I really know some wonderful men in the world. As I ran I thought of those wonderful men, and wondered if they had secret problems, obsessions, selfish behaviors. I wondered if there are really any good men left. I know there are. I know there must be. At least 85...

I ran all of my frustration out. I don't even know how many laps I did around the park. But I think five??? I remember passing by the soccer goals wondering if anyone ever used them. The next loop, I saw a man out there, pulling them to the field. (!) Then the next loop I saw him talking to a buddy. Another loop the buddy was drawing chalk lines on the field. Another loop they both were measuring the chalk lines. That's five right? I'm not even sure. I went ahead and ran out of the park, and onto the street. I had to be near done. I wasn't even paying attention. I ran down a cul-de-sac, something I hadn't done in a while, then another, another, another. I got a prompt I had 10 minutes left. I ran toward home, breezing by. I ran down the street of the homes of the river, and back. And THEN it said to cool down. WOW.

My distance was 6.06 miles.

I've decided when it's time for the Half Marathon, I need someone to be really awful to me the day prior, so I can run out the nasty. haha.

P.S. Don't worry about my man-rant. My trust may have weakened, but I know that so much of the good in the world has been from the hands of good men. I just need to rebuild trust... And forgive them when they leave lipstick on coffee mugs.

Racking Up the Miles -- 4.1 of Bridge to 10K

It is HARD recovering from an injury. I have had a hard time getting my "groove" back, and finding my pace, and then maintaining it. I have felt remarkably (miraculously) well, and have enjoyed running again!

Upon entering the park, I decided I would run the other direction. It completely messed with my head. This makes me absolutely certain of two things: 1) I should probably change my route more often, and 2) I am never changing my route again. I suppose that means I will try it now and then, when I need some changes.

It was really a non-eventful run. No sprinklers to avoid, most dogs were on their leashes, etc etc. I have found that the park maintenance fellas have come to recognize me. They wave and say hello now when they didn't before. I could pick them out of a crowd. I suppose that's a good thing. It means I'm out a lot!

On my return run I started thinking of the changes of my body. This is really hard for me to talk about. I feel like I wasted my "beautiful" years (no, not searching for compliments, just expressing feelings) doing random nonsense. My eyes aren't as big and beautiful as they used to be, and bags have made permanent residence... My skin is more tired and less fresh. My hair is scraggly and has more greys than I can count (this is new). I feel... old. I want to talk to my mom about what is going on with my body because frankly, I've never gone through this sort of aging before. I seem to hold onto illness longer than I used to. My metabolism is a pathetic mess. I used to be athletic. I used to look like happiness. I am just getting old I think.

Which made me wonder if I was trying to re-find my youth through running. I'm not sure if I am, but I do want to have energy, and spunk, and look like happiness. We'll see where it takes me.

I was feeling pretty pathetic about the distance of today's run, regardless of coming out of a hip injury. So I decided to add up my approximations (I only just hooked up GPS) of my runs thus far. I will be adding my amounts to my month end reports!

I decided I would run "to Disneyland" and also "to Disneyworld". I know, I'm so flexible and great at multi-tasking. I want to see how long it would take me to get there, and who knows, maybe I'll reward myself with something grand when I reach my goals. Considering it's a great distance off, I have time to think of it.

The best thing about adding up my miles and seeing them on a map? Being amazed at how very very far I've run, already!

And many more........

P.S. My month end, tomorrow, will have the stats for how many miles per month, through August.

Back From the Dead -- 3.3 of Bridge to 10K

I blogged about what if felt like to not run. I am amazed at how forlorn I felt to not run, how lame and pathetic I felt. I think there is a definite difference between taking intentional time off, and taking unintentional time off.

I had no choice. These are the times I wish I had insurance. I can't get insurance because I had cancer recently and it's considered pre-existing, beyond the fact that I was denied anyway when I was expecting because I was assumed "infertile". There might be a problem with Obamacare, but there is definitely a problem with current care! Without insurance, I have learned it is impossible to find a general practitioner who will take you as a new patient, and mine retired.

I definitely needed medical attention. Every step I took it felt as though the top of my femur had a knife attached to it. It was right in the ball and socket, not running down my leg, or in my groin like all tendon and muscular injuries. Both hips hurt at one point, but I discovered that to be the abductor, and I did exercises to relieve the pain, and bring healing. The knife pain continued throughout these last two weeks. It was literally, crippling. I would be walking like normal, and then something would happen, shooting the pain into my being. If caught unaware, I would cry out, but often I would bite my lip, close my eyes, and keep trying to walk, tough and strong and drama-free.

It got better, and then it got worse, then better again. Three days ago I had a day of no pain. I could have cried with relief. Two days ago I had one episode of alarming pain, but it passed quickly. Yesterday I felt strong and capable.

I missed running so much, and did not feel like giving up. I went to bed last night deciding today would be the day. I would do what I can, and at any moment of alarm, I was prepared to stop.

I set off at a slower pace. The entire run was a slower pace. Apparently my feet had been dipped in cement. It felt good to be out there, but I was out there to be moving, not to break personal records. The first mile I felt some dull pain at my injury point, but I don't think I would have noticed it, had I not been looking for it. I continued to run. I ran, and ran, and ran. At the halfway point I knew I could do it. At the last lap, I knew I could do it. At the five minute warning, I knew I was doing it. I fought the entire way.

I noticed my running, and what my feet do when I run. They absolutely over-pronate. I end up doing this weird ankle rotating thing to make up for it. I could see how actual, correct running shoes would help prevent injury, and I look forward to be able to purchase some in 4 weeks! I wish it were today, but I will wait.

I ran 3.7 miles, about 1/2 mile less than I "should have", but I don't care. I am so happy to be out there again, running. It is what I do. I might be as slow as molasses, but I am happy as a clam. Peach seemed excited for me too. I'm not sure if she sensed the feeling, but she kept giving me "five" and hugging me. What an absolute thrill!

Hitting the Streets

I hate not running.

As the days have passed since I last ran, I feel BIGGER. I feel sadder. I feel irritable. I feel as out of shape as I was four months ago. I feel like my days are passing me by that I could be improving myself. It's hard!

I'm going to try to run because this is really bothering me to stay grounded. My body feels much better. I have realized I hurt most when I am wearing heels (sad!) or carrying Peach on my hip, or other activities where my hips aren't square. I've been doing hips strengthening exercises every day, and they seem to have helped quite a bit!

So what do I do for my first run back? Pick up where I left off? Go back a week? Or just run to see how far I can go?

I need my brain back, my body back, my heart back. I am a better person when I run.

I swear I'll be careful. When my hip(s) hurt, it's so intense that I can't help but be careful. I'll let you know how it goes.

Broken Strings or 3.2 of B210K

I was dragging my feet a little, getting my run started this morning. I took my car in to the shop to be worked on for a check engine light, and I fear it left me deflated. Then we learned that The Captain's boss did not want him to bother working while his truck was out of commission. Unfortunately, his time off is unpaid. Again, deflated. Wilted. It wasn't even 9am. I got on my running clothes, and headed out, certain a good run would help my psyche.

I walked my warm up, as usual, and when it was time to run, I literally jogged three steps, and crumbled, falling to the ground. My right hip had given out, and it felt as though it wasn't even there. I felt like a marionette whose string had gotten cut. I could make it move, but it was like the hip bone wasn't talking to the leg bone.

You see, a few days ago, my hip socket started hurting. BADLY. But The Captain has a severely injured knee (remember, we have no health insurance), and I feared complaining about my hip would only make it sound like I was trying to steal his thunder. Plus, I didn't want anyone telling me I couldn't/shouldn't run. Usually when I run anyway, the pain fades, and I am strong again.

I tried to run again, and stumbled. I could not, physically, run. AT ALL. Despite my best efforts. Tears welled both from the pain and from the uncertainty of my future in running. This was serious, and scary. I knew I could walk though. So I would walk my hour, when I should have been running. I walked as fast as I could, and found myself starting to run. About 3-4 minutes into the first run, I started running. And then I would walk, and then run, and then walk.... A LOT.

My second run I ran the entire length (I am doing 3, 17 minute runs now. With a 1 minute walk break between.), and was feeling..... bad. It was bad enough I didn't even feel accomplished. The pain was coursing down my leg to the top of my foot. It was time to stop. So I walked, and walked and walked... the remaining time.

My total distance was a mere 3.25 miles, which I am fine with, considering.

After reading about what could be going on, it sounds like my hip flexor is pretty angry. So, ice, yoga, warm, yoga, ice. I'm taking good care of my poor little (haha) leg. I already feel stronger since this morning, and I hope that tomorrow will be equally healing.

Sometimes I curse that I've signed up for a Half Marathon, but truly, it keeps me wanting and yearning, and pressing on when it's hard. It keeps me focused. I need to find a way to do it because running has been so much more to me than a physical strengthening.


P.S. Bonus points for whoever can place what movie those marionettes in my picture are from. I found myself singing the song they sang, even while Gwen Stefani was playing loudly in my ears.

I Swear I've Been Running 2.2, 2.3, 3.1 of B210K

Sometimes I feel like I explain my whole life on Facebook, so I feel like there's no need to share. Except that this is really a journal of something great... My journey. I can explain myself more deeply and correctly that I can in a paragraph of summarized deep thoughts.

Let me tell you about some running experiences I've had...

Last week I ran Week 2, Day 2 of Bridge to 10K. The run was relatively uneventful. However, my GPS said I ran 3.94 miles, and I was kind of bummed! I wished I had known I was SO close to 4 miles, I would have pushed myself harder. As it was, I took two walking breaks that were unscheduled. They were brief... See, had I blogged, this would be A TON more exciting than this, which appears to be a Facebook status update. haha. Sad I've lost it, since I neglected to record it.

The rest of the week was saturated with more obstacles than were realistic for me to run the third run of the week. It was VERY frustrating. I decided I would deal, and move on to 2.3 on Monday.

Monday came and my three kids seemed eager to go out. Except I couldn't get them ready. AT ALL. hmmm... Finally we were out the door, but my timing had to be perfect because of the necessarily post-run shower, and a doctor's appointment for Lambie.

We went to the school track, because it is easiest to watch my kids from the track loop. They played a while, while I ran (wow! How often can you say "while while" and have it make sense. Funny you pronounce them differently... nerd alert, sorry.) it was relatively easy.... My kids were playing on their scooter, and ran with me here and there. They tried to play with Peach, who was in the stroller, Bear tried to hold my hand and run with me, and for the warmup wanted to listen to my iPod with me. So sweet!

Throughout the run, there were two young girls who each did a lap and vanished. It was seriously bizarre. You would think I would see them heading off some direction, but no. I thought about how "unnaturally" thin they were (know that I understand there are ectomorph body types in this world. Their thinness just led me to think...), and pondered the future of my two beautiful daughters. Would they be horribly self conscious of the ample thighs and booty they may well inherit from their mother? How hard would they try to be thin? How would I know when it's a problem? I confess I was glad when they each left so that my mind would stop worrying.

With each minute that ticked by, I was amazed with myself, but was more and more tired. My legs were starting to ache, but I pressed on. The kids started wanting a countdown of minutes. I was amazed how well this propelled me. I continued a practice I would do during Couch to 5K of dropping a clover flower every loop I go. Although my GPS was on, I still liked the verification. I'm very precise and meticulous.

My run was over, and I had just dropped my 16th clover flower. 4 miles. My GPS read 3.85 miles. This is an impossible discrepancy, isn't it? It's either 3.75 or 4... ??? I know I did 4. So there it is. I had looked forward to this day, reaching 4 miles, and it was so weird, that I was a little... let down.

The day after 2.3 I walked to the park for a picnic the congregation of my church was having. On the way back, I was pushing Peach in the stroller, and we passed a youngish new mom, pushing her stroller, wearing a super cute workout outfit, sunglasses, iPod, tank top, with coordinating hoodie strategically drooping off of one shoulder. As she saw Peach, she pointed for her distracted young son, and yelled (unaware of her volume) "BABY! LOOK! BAAAAABY!" It was a terrific site, and I had a good laugh.

I feel I'm not doing what I'm doing for looks, like she was... But then, I am. I suppose so I can be gorgeous the OTHER minutes of the day. I'll get there someday.

Run 3.1 was Wednesday of this week. I loved it. The Captain was home, waiting for his carpool to work. I got to set off on my own, a rare treat. It's always weird running without a stroller, now. Without the stroller, for some reason, it takes a long time to find my rhythm, without feeling like I'm running like Will Ferrell when he thinks he's on fire in Talledega Nights (except not nekkid). I finally caught my stride, which I need to perfect, but a stride nonetheless.

I passed a mom running with her two teen boys. You could say they "needed" to run, for the visual... I was proud of them. They did the best they could for a very long time. Each time I passed them, I told them they were doing great, and to keep going! They smiled and thanked me with each passing.

At one point I passed two ladies who must have been in their 70's. They were saying how everyone was blowing by them, directed at me. At that point, I had my one minute break to walk, so I told them that I wasn't running prior to May 1st, but decided to reclaim my body. One of them said, "You are surely doing that!" And then, "We just saunter. And we are thankful for that." I loved it. I thought about it all day. When I am 70+, sauntering might be my only option, and I want to be thankful that 1) I'm 70+, and 2) I can still move, with my wits about me. But for now, I run. And I am so thankful for the ability to do so.

My distance for 3.1 was 4.11 miles. I am bummed it wasn't further, but I am really happy with how long and far I'm going. I did the run without extra walk breaks, and I'm excited to do 3.2 on Saturday.

3 Months In! - Reporting My Physical Changes Thus Far

I just want to start by saying, choosing to only weigh and measure once per month is so good for me! I am afraid I would fixate week by week, and be much more emotional, with how slow it's going. But it's going! Whatever I'm doing is working, and that's a great feeling!

This month I had a trip to Disneyland, courtesy of my lovely sister, ES. I managed to not pig out, and wasn't really even tempted to. I was thankful! I actually counted calories, and did very well with that. I didn't do well with it the entire month though, and I'm curious if I did maintain that tenacity, if I would see better results.

One of the greatest changes I've seen are my clothes are starting to either fit better, or fit BIG on me! I was telling ES that I'm used to buying clothes because my old clothes are too small, but not the other way around! I'm not to that point yet, but I'm getting there! I noticed that my running pants that, while they weren't TIGHT when I went to Disneyland in March, they nearly were. Now the same pants are LOOSE. As in, almost too big for me, loose. Not falling off me yet though. ;) Still, what a very very very cool and foreign feeling! Bring it on!

This month I lost 4.8 pounds. I was hoping to have dropped the additional .2 pounds, so I kept getting off and getting back on the scale to see if it would drop. It maintained, so 4.8 it is. To date I have lost 16 and (almost) 1/2 pounds! That's so awesome! I would love to lose another 15 in three months! Sure, I'd love to lose 15 pounds in ONE month, but working like I am, it's taking it off and getting rid of it for good, and that's a great feeling.

Measurement-wise, my hips are down 2 inches, my waist is down 1 3/4 inches, thighs 1 1/2 inches each, and arms 1 1/4 inches each. SO HAPPY! I am becoming me!

Realizing I am now the size I was when The Captain and I were reunited almost four years ago, I am really pleased. I can see where, in the past, I would see this as a happy spot to stop and enjoy the scenery from my self-imposed plateau of happy memories. However, I am going to keep it up, and just see what happens!

The coolest change (besides completing the Couch to 5K program and moving onto Bridge to 10K) was walking by the restroom mirror today and realizing that my side thigh muscle above my knee is becoming defined! As I walk I look more muscular instead of just a mass, and I love that. Also, my arms are becoming more defined. It is amazing to see my body return to where it should be. What I am doing is right for my body, and it shows!

Let the fat burning resume!

I'd Rather Be Chased By a Man Than a Dog... Scratch That -- 1.3 of B210K

There are days, where although I have learned to love running, I don't want to go out. Saturday I wanted to sleep in. I wanted to make the kids' Fun Run an excuse to not do MY run. I wasn't loathing the idea of running, I just wasn't looking forward to it.

It was a really lovely morning. The temperature was moderate (for running), but the sun was still low, and it was peaceful out.

I was a pessimist because I had had such frustrating runs lately, but I prepped the best I could, including lacing my shoes loosey goosey, and set out.

I have had three wonderful friends suggest that my numb foot issue was because of a common problem of legs being irregular lengths. Fortunately I've already had my legs and hips tested, and much to the surprise of the doctors who checked (for my back injury in 2002), my legs are the exact same length. So I know that's out. I'm going with the too small of shoes, since I haven't gotten fit for running shoes, which you're supposed to buy a little large in case of swelling. My cross trainers fit exactly right for being cute little tennies.

Running into the park, knowing I had three loops to do, was both exciting (look how far I can run!) and hideous (look how far I have to run!). It was so barren and quiet. Where my virtual running partner, KNBO'R, comes up with lovely ideas of Harry Potter come to life when she hears a coyote, I come up with terrible concoctions in my head of attack by unleashed dogs.

You see, at this lovely park, there is a dog park that is very well used. Unfortunately for those of us who do not own/adore our four-legged comrades, it brings a feeling of unease to see dogs running hither and yon without leashes, in a public place. Of course if I ever have a dog, who I would know is safe, it would not bother me one bit. I must live up to my double standard.

As I ran, I jokingly thought to myself that I would rather be chased by a man (as in hubba hubba) than a dog. At that moment, on run three, finishing loop two, in the corner of my eye, I was startled to see a dog tearing after me! My heart went straight into my throat and I jumped off the trail to avoid the dog! Fortunately it wasn't snarling, or really "chasing", but rather "following" me. BLAH!!!! I continue running, the dog still following me. My heartrate returning to normal.

THEN out of the corner of my eye, I see something much bigger approaching! A MAN! Again, heart+throat+jump out of the way. It was a jogger. I swear. Maybe I need to change my music to The Carpenters.

The man was just a man jogger. I have come to learn man joggers must be men who practice for years on a treadmill before they go outside. Men joggers are FAST. And none of them sweat. And they all look like professionals. It's so rude.

The dog was still following me. Turning completely around, I see this poor 20something girl in flip flops, short shorts, and bohemian blouse, with long, dark curly hair and sunglasses (at 8am???), running as best she could after her little escape artist. Trying to call the dog off, and send it back, it was having too much fun following me. So I turned around and ran back to his owner, knowing the dog would follow me, but not listen to reason. Poor girl. (Yet I can't help but cynically think "why'd she take the dog off the leash at the regular park if she can't chase after it?" sigh.)

I finished my third of four runs, further than my other two runs, and feeling amazing. I don't know if it was the adrenaline that brought my second wind, but I was happy for it. I saw The Captain's tennis playing friends (from church) at the park, and waved.

And I ran home. I was part-way through my cool down when I realized what I did. I completed the run I didn't think I could do! 53 minutes start to finish (including warm up and cool down)!

I can't wait for week 2! As much as I dread always having to push myself and try hard EVERY day, I love learning that I can do this.

I loved that my foot finally didn't go numb.

I am glad I learned that I would rather be chased by a dog than a man.

I am thankful The Captain thinks it would be wise for me to run with mace.

I am afraid I'll mistake it one day for my inhaler.

HAHAHA.

Wouldn't that make a fun, horrifying story?

Uncomfortably Numb - 1.2 of B210K

I'm very proud of today's picture. hee hee. There is a story to go with it, but first, I would like you to take a moment for a sweet little chuckle...



After Tuesday's challenging run, I talked with The Captain about what I should do for today's run, children-wise. It turned out the only time I could go was in the heat of the day. Now given our locale, I *know* the heat of the day is some people's lows, but it's still hot for me. Plus, I never do well with evening runs.

I made dinner, but didn't eat it. It was great for my family to do something while I ran. I ate afterward.

I made sure my laces were nice and loose today, and during the warm up, I worried that my shoe was actually too loose, and would slip around on my foot. haha. I coped.

As I ran down the street I always run down, there were people out, more than normal. They were riding bikes, gardening, washing cars, watering their lawns, etc. Each one of them waved, and it was a great feeling. Entering the park, there were the usual baseball players, and some soccer players. Oh, and some shirtless volleyball players, but frankly, I was too focused on not dying while I ran to care. The Captain is a lucky man to be married to a girl with tunnel vision. ;)

I ran the first run, and the second, without a hitch. During each of the three loops (THREE LOOPS!!) around the park, I ran by two separate ladies who were dressed to the nines in jogging gear, with their hair styled in bouffants (both of them. not kidding.) with tendrils (to exhibit potential exhaustion?) gracing their cheekbones. Both of them, individually walked very slowly, and while I could be critical, at least they were moving! Good for them! But I must confess, it was good for a smile. Real running isn't pretty. At least on me.

At the end of the third run it happened again. My foot went numb. This time, my foot only went numb, and not the rest of my leg. That was a relief. However, knowing that it wasn't my laces, I am sure bothered by this. Especially being doctorless and insurance-less. hmmm...

I continued to run, not wanting a repeat of Tuesday. It was strange not feeling my foot. Instead of the impact on the ground, it felt like *thud thud thud* with each running step. I made it the third loop around, and got a high five from a fella driving his boat out. It was fun. And motivating to keep running!

I did take two unscheduled walks, and I timed them. One in the 3rd run for one and a half minutes(when I realized my foot was numb, and was deciding what to do), and one for about 45 seconds in run 4.

Oddly, toward the end of my run, I couldn't believe two things: How long it felt and that I did it!

Over the course of the run, the numbness went up into my shin, and then back down to my foot, and finally nearly gone, by the time I went home. I confess I was proud of myself for continuing, and hope I didn't make myself worse.

I enjoyed today, primarily because it was a trip to be running so much farther than last week, but also because of the people watching. My imaginary audience was good to me today.

I can't wait to go out on Saturday. I want to see if I can do it, with no walk breaks! And preferably, no weird foot issue...

A New Goal: Bridge to 10K ... Day 1.1

I have dreaded writing this blog. In fact, I'd like to just call it good with that sentence. But I will tell you more.

Tuesday I ran the first run of Bridge to 10K (B210K is how I will abbreviate). It is back to intermittent runs, which is just fine, since it's getting your endurance to an even greater level than Couch to 5K. The goal is to run 10K in an hour. I'm excited! After this, I'm training for a Half! B210K is only 6 weeks long, and should be completed by Labor Day!

I knew I could do this. I have been running, and much more confident about running, for a while now.

I hauled my three children to the grade school track, and let them play in the grass in the middle of the track. I ran into a friend (not literally) and realized that I really had to show my worth by doing the run RIGHT. I was walking the warmup, and my feet felt like lead. It was awful. My first run came, and I just didn't feel it. I realized I would be pushing myself through the entire 53 minute run. (5 minute warm up, 10 minute run, 1 minute walk, repeat the 10/1 3 more times, and then 5 minute cool down.) I ran and ran and ran. It frankly was all going well.

I had my new earbuds, from Skull Candy, and the left one is just a hair too big, but I'll deal. It's amazing the difference fitting earbuds make! WOW!

It was rather uneventful, except for trying to get Lambie down from the tree she climbed, while I ran. And reassuring Bear that he's awesome, even though he didn't complete the two-lap run with me that he wanted to do.

Then a good way into the third run (so about 30 minutes into my 53 minutes), my left leg went completely numb. I remember exactly where I was when it happened, it was a very quick transformation. I knew I had to stop, immediately. As I was walking back to the start, it got to the point I actually had to focus on making my leg work. It was awful. It lasted a couple of hours too, slowly returning to normal.

Looking it up, it was apparently either a pinched nerve in my back (SCARY), or laces tied too tightly (PATHETIC).

While I would feel sheepish about tying my laces to tight - likely since I paid extra care that morning - I would so much rather have it be a temporary issue!

Now, today is Thursday, and it's nearing time for my run. Week 1 Day 2. I am scared. I am scared I will be a disaster. I am scared all I can do is 5K, and I am NOT the runner I thought I was.

I guess we'll see. I am running in the evening, which is never a good thing for me. I need to get the negative thoughts out of my head!

My Last Few Runs

I have fallen behind. I realize that running and planning and going on vacation at the same time does not allow much time for WRITING. It's a shame! There's a lot to say!

Briefly, week 8 day 3 went off without a hitch. I don't remember much... Maybe my running partner can refresh my mind?

Week 9 day 1 was the last week of Couch to 5K, and I had my first day of running 30 minutes straight. The goal was to run 5K in 40 minutes or less. This day my running partner, KNBO'R was running a very cool 5K in Davis, CA, and as she did for me July 4th, I ran "alongside" her. My time for 5K was around 45 minutes. This was surprising for me because it was about the same time as my 5K July 4th, and I walked much less. hmmm... I knew the next day would be better.

Week 9 day 2 and 3 were on a treadmill on Level 3 of the Hyatt Regency in Anaheim! Day 2 was awesome, and the 30 minutes of running went so well, and "easy", and I felt I could run forever! There was a hot running thing on the treadmill in front of me, and I had to remind myself to not let it bother me because she's probably been running for years, right? RIGHT? I appreciate the air conditioned room, filtered water and cold, damp towels available. And I got a thank you from other gym patrons when I was the only person who wiped down the treadmill.

The completion of Couch to 5K went without fanfare, and almost... Well, I wasn't impressed. I was still not quite at 5K within 40 minutes. Feeling graduated because I WAS RUNNING the entire allotted time, I was genuinely okay with it all. However, for me, I felt like the program was to train me to run 5K under 40 minutes. Not 4.8K.

Saturday, after returning and healing from vacation, I ran a bonus run, using my plotted 5K, and running my heart out. Honestly, it was a TERRIBLE run. I didn't run the entire time. My head was messing with me. I felt AWFUL. I felt I couldn't do it. I was frustrated and forlorn. I felt like a failure. But I really wanted to do this! I ended up running through the 5 minute cool down in order to make up time. With that, I did 5K in a hair under 41 minutes. I am a runner.

Despite the odds, I finished. I did what I set out to do. This means that I will run a 10K in an hour. It means I will run a Half Marathon in 3:30 or less and not get swept. It means I will finish college. It means I will do great things in my life because I can accomplish small goals that lead into larger goals.

Monday I begin Bridge to 10K. Who wants to join me for my journey?

Pit Stop or Workout #6 for July

I have spent my entire day not wanting to write this. However, I have maintained my accountability, and intend to continue this honest journal of events. I wish it were more glamorous.

I dropped Bear off for Cub Scout Day Camp early this morning. Today would be a track day, but Lambie insisted that she would ride Bear's bike, since he was gone. After dropping off Bear, Lambie pulled out the bike, we did a little tune up, I contemplated my lack of tools in spite of my husband's profession, and we were on our way.

I told her the good news: I would just be running, so she could continuously ride her bike. I had lovely visions of today. I was running week 8 day 2 of Couch to 5K. I would run for 28 minutes, with a five minute warm up and cool down. I had pre-mapped a 2.75 mile goal. It was all terrific.

About a mile in, a pedal came off. NOT AGAIN. This happened last time she rode the bike! What is happening??? I put the pedal back on, easily forgiving the pause (I paused the timer and music), and we returned to running. It was only the beginning.

With each subsequent stop, I jogged in place when I could, and became really fast when replacing pedals or training wheels. I kept my mood light because with each stop, I thought of Luigi from "Cars" and his "Pit Stop!" Also, it helped that I'd already done a successful 28 minute run just three days prior. I knew I could do it.

Wednesday WILL be a track day. I'll bring bubbles. 38 minutes worth of bubbles.

Lambie helped me count... We lost pedal(s) five times, training wheels twice, and stopped for the port-a-john once, but technically twice, since the first one we encountered was missing TP, so we had to run 1/4 mile to the next one... Eight stops. Sigh.

It could have been a better day. I wished I could have a do-over (without bike issues), but that's what Wednesday is for. Tomorrow, I think we'll walk to the church and library. Lambie wants to drive her Barbie motorized Jeep. Heaven forbid that breaks down 2 miles from home.... I would not handle that well...

Reflecting back to the run today, I am glad I stayed patient and forgiving. I told Lambie she was balancing well with the training wheels off, and it made her want to try harder. And home was a sweet destination.

The Lucky Penny or Workout #4 for July

This morning I woke up at a good time to go running nice and early, before temps started increasing. But my running partner, Miss Peach, was still sleeping... I called my therapist/sister ES to talk about college stuff that's stressing me out, and she brought me back to reality. It was good. After dilly dallying as long as I could, I decided to just wake the babe.

I forgot I broke my earbuds. ughhhhhhhhhh......

Today was week 7 day 3 of Couch to 5K, or the last chance to run 25 minutes without stopping. I had not yet been able to do this, whether it was a physical or a mental impasse. I wasn't sure of my ability, but I wanted to give it my all. I did my warm up, moving the location, to keep my run feeling "short".

I left thinking, "I will take a walk break after I return home." Which shortened to "I will take a break at the stop sign." And again "I will take a break at the halfway mark." Sigh...

I arrived at the park, the daunting incline before me. I decided I would run to the top and assess my feeling. I was fine, so I kept running. The halfway prompt came, and I ran right through it, not even tempted to stop. Shortly after, I wanted to stop. In my head I thought, "No! If I start now, I'll take breaks too often, and it doesn't do anything but frustrate me at the end." So I kept running. And with each desire to stop, I thought a simple "No." Or "It's not time yet."

By the time I left the park, and was heading home, I realized I wasn't going to stop at all, even though, while I didn't realize it, I probably still had seven minutes left, or more. Instead of stopping to walk, I would decrease my already snail's pace, to something probably slower than walking, but I kept "running". Naturally it returned to my set pace.

I didn't notice when I passed the stop sign. It was only when I was approaching home, I started saying "Uncle". I decided I would run to the end of the cul-de-sac and assess how I felt.

And then I saw it, a shiny penny.

Now, this might sound odd, but just Monday, my dad told me a story of a marathon runner who was trying out for the Olympics, and while he ran he always stopped to pick up coins. When the Olympic trials were happening, he saw 2 quarters off to the side. Stopping to pick them up cost him qualification to enter the Olympics.

I thought of this as I saw the penny. I could stop to pick it up, but it would require me to stop. I was so close to my goal. It's funny what the nagging voice in your head can try to convince you to do. I had to convince myself that the penny would still be there when I looped back around. And it was JUST A PENNY. It wasn't a $100 bill. haha. It was hard to run past, but I did, thinking of my dad's timely story. (Thank you, Dad!)

I got to the end of the cul-de-sac, frustrated there was not a "one minute left" prompt yet! And then it came. I was too tired to run harder that last minute, like I usually do, so I kept going at my current rate. And I finished. I ran 25 minutes. Straight. I have never run 25 minutes intentionally, before. As I once again approached the penny, I passed it by, needing to do my cooldown, in a much better mental state than I had been.

Upon completion of the workout and cooldown, I went back and picked up the penny. It wasn't as shiny as I thought it was. The year? 2007. The year I changed my life. The year I started reclaiming myself. I am where I am now because of choices I made that year. I was running today because of choices I made that year.

I think I'll keep the penny.

2 Months In! - A Summary of Results Thus Far

I have not recently read my previous month-end report, so I really have no idea what format I should write in, to maintain consistency. I suppose I'll just tell it as it is.

This has been a frustrating month, but yet, a good month. I have enjoyed becoming leaner. I have enjoyed tremendous increase in strength, stamina, confidence, and ability! I can now run almost an entire 25 minutes without walk breaks, I can do more pushups than I have done in years, and my skin is happier. Ah...clear skin... I forget how exercise helps skin!

I had the pleasant surprise of putting on my pre-pregnancy capris and finding they fit BETTER than they did two years ago. You see, last summer I was entirely postpartum, so I hadn't even tried to put them on. I confess I was nervous! Every time I was postpartum, before, and tried donning the summer clothes, they did not fit. I'm pretty pleased! Plus, it's reassuring to know I won't have to wear my jeans all summer...

So why was it frustrating? I decided I would only weigh myself once per month, but a healthy part of the way through, I decided I would weigh myself, so that I might have more incentive to continue this madness. My discovery was that after about three weeks of much more intense exercise and mindful eating, I had lost 3/10 of a pound. I was so defeated and frustrated, but, I remembered what The Captain had said which was that I'm going the right direction, and eventually it would start working for me.

I decided to weigh myself "officially" today, for my month end report. I was delightfully surprised to see a five pound weight loss! In fact, I got off of the scale, reset it, and got on again, a few times! I don't honestly know how it happened, or where it went. I anticipate those missing five pounds could be found again the next time I'm on the scale, but I surely hope not.

As far as measurements, my waist and thigh(s) are only 1/2 an inch smaller, and the rest is the same. C'est la vie. I'm feeling better about me, and that's a gift. Truly.

I have decided I'm going to monitor my diet more closely this month, to see what it will bring. Now that exercise isn't nearly as mentally hard for me, watching what I eat will not feel like I'm totally killing myself. If I'd started both at the same time, I'm certain my body would go into shock, and freak out, and I'd quit.

So, yay for 11 1/2 total pounds lost. :) Let's see what July will bring!

Chasing Toddlers or Workout #20 for June

The last two days were terrible days for exercise. I confess Tuesday I didn't try too hard. I slept through my alarm, and needed to just get going with my day. Wednesday I woke up HURTING. Nine years ago I had a major back injury where the muscles on my back, holding my spine, detached, or more unpleasantly, were ripped away from my spine. In the three months before I started physical therapy, they began to heal, going the wrong direction. It has been nine years, and I still struggle, but not nearly like I used to. While this was a muscular injury, sometimes my spinal cord is affected by the lack of muscular support. Yesterday was that day. Instead, I went to the "free" movie, attempted to go bowling, watched kids play, and really took it easy. By nightfall I felt much better. This morning I woke up and my spine was so much better, but my muscles, overworking, were aching. I have three children and a husband in Seattle. I was tired. I was en route to falling off the wagon. But I didn't want to!

Encouraged by words of friends, I gathered my young and brought them to the school. I met up with a friend, KC, who is doing her version of Couch to 5k and on week 5, and I am on week 7 day 1. Saturday will be week 7 day 2. Monday I run my first 5k. I'm more nervous about terrorizing my friends with my sweaty scent during their pancake breakfast than I am about running 3 miles. I think not knowing the route will help. I'll just run and run and run. But back to today...

It was important for me to run as much as I possibly could today, preparing for Monday. I started my run out slow, and it always makes me feel silly to start so slow because I know I can go much faster. But I don't want to suffer later for having an uneven, unrealistic pace. Running with KC was nice too. Sometimes I fear I'm a reclusive running partner. I hope that didn't bother her. Maybe I'm in "the zone". haha. Maybe I don't have fun with it yet.

After the halfway mark, I slowed to a walk. This time I timed for sure ALL of my walks. I took four mini walk breaks, totalling 1 minute 55 seconds. My longest walk was one minute, and MAN that went by fast! haha. I was noticeably stronger this run than the last run. I have to remember that with previous weeks, it would take me ALL week (or longer!) to get a particular run down pat, so I feel I have 2 more runs to perfect running 25 minutes without a break. Next time I will take less than a minute of breaks if any at all. And by 7.3 (or the 5k) I will run 25 minutes without a break. I promise! :)

At the end of my run, A mom came to the track, her 4 year old pushing the stroller, the mom carrying the toddler, trying to run. It made me think of how people say they get slimmer by chasing around a toddler. In contrast, my friend KJ arrived at the track. I know she's only been running a few years (at least as far as I understand), and I remember seeing her run a few years ago at the rate I do. Today I watched her gazelle-like poise and focus as she ran and ran and ran her long, muscular legs around the track. It was truly impressive, and inspiring to me!

I suppose my motivation today was wanting my toddler to have to chase me, or having it be easy peasy to chase after a toddler! How much fun and laughter would be in my home? I can't wait! Today was awesome. I feel AWESOME!

Running McPhee or Workout #19 for June

If apps could talk... I am sure if my app could talk...well, more than it does already, when I pondered why Friday was the last time I would run an interval run (walking break) for Couch to 5k it would say something like this: "There is something you should understand about the way I work. When you need me but do not want me, then I must stay. When you want me but no longer need me, then I have to go."

After a good 6.2 run (week 6 day 2) run last Friday, a repeat of Wednesday, I decided I would run it one more time, to build confidence. I didn't blog it because life is life. Plus all I thought about saying is, "Did you know you can SEE pollen? Did you know it falls in WAVES from some trees?" Nothing good. Oh, and I was going to say that sometimes a road looks flat, but it's all uphills... That's about it.

So today I accidentally missed my alarm, forfeiting my golden opportunity to run before The Captain left for work, while the kids were asleep. My privilege today was running with three children. Hey, it takes a village to build a runner, right? The Captain decided I could run at night. I knew though, by nightfall, I would be plum-tuckered out. I had to find a solution.

My running partner (550 miles away), KNBO'R, was texting me about running, and over the conversation, I discovered I could haul Bear and Lambie and Peach to the school track, let Bear and Lambie run around in the field in the middle of the track, while I ran laps with Peach in the stroller.

PERFECT.

I told KNBO'R that I was going to be doing 6.2 again. She encouraged me not to, but to go ahead and run 6.3, 25 minutes straight (plus 5 minute warm up and 5 minute cool down). I thought... sure. It was time to cut the cord.

Concerned that I would focus too much on how many laps I was doing, I did something I read on a blog. I gathered a handful of clover flowers, and with each lap, I dropped one in the start spot. At the end I was able to count how many laps I did, and how many miles (2.25 exactly).

During my run I enjoyed watching my older children play with the dried, mowed grass, throw boomerangs, and blow bubbles. I saw how they work together so well to make "haystacks". And I got to enjoy Bear counting my laps loudly for me, and running along side me for about 30 feet each lap. I love my children.

It was hard to run on a track. Physically it was a dream come true. Mentally, well, there's no real goals, no scenery, just repeated laps. One thing I loved was, some time ago, when I learned a lap was a mere 1/4 of a mile, and I knew they had to be lying because it's soooooo long, I discovered it's actually not long at all. It's about 1/4 mile, I'd say. ;)

I also concocted an art project I'd like to do someday about treadmill runners, track runners, street runners, and trail runners. Yay for inspiration!

So how did the run go?

Well.... I had a handful of stops and starts. All very brief. But truly, it was as though I didn't need it. I would slow to a walk, feel the burn in my calves to keep going, and I would run again. I knew if I got beyond the burn, I would stop, and walk. I must indulge the springs in my legs!

My favorite thing about the entire run I discovered later. I read a few weeks ago that your breathing becomes accustomed to long distance running before your legs do, and that your legs do shortly thereafter. All this time, my breathing has been INTENSE at best. Today, I breathed just fine the whole time, even talking with my kids on my final stretch. It was only my legs that hurt. Sweet goodness, I'm getting stronger! All of me is getting stronger!

Wednesday is 7.1, and it will be terrific. And I have a solution to my little four person running team.

My motivation for today? Well, my friend WB formulated a 5k on the 4th of July, and while I may get last place, I'd like to run the distance. Very badly. Even if I'm not 100% ready.

No more breaks.

"When you need me but do not want me, then I must stay. When you want me but no longer need me, then I have to go...."