After MRI

Well I had an MRI on Dec 18th and no call from the doctor so I am moving on.  I did read my report and it says "Anterior Talofibular ligament tear" but I really don't think there is treatment so I will rehab myself.  I went for a walk with Nolan and the Dog on Dec 27th we went 2 miles and I walked. It went well, little stiff in the right ankle but no real pain. The day after I was a little sore but again all tolerable.  Yesterday I went in treadmill for 20 mins, walking and jogging at about 4.8.  Today I woke with very little pain so I decided that it was time.......That's right..... Feet dressed clothes on and out the door I go.  I jogged slowly for 1/2 mile, I turned off my music and walked. How can I describe what I felt? In the distance I can hear a wood splitter, I can barely smell exhaust, I can hear a faint chirping from a bird, I see a small bird jumping on a branch, I feel coolness on my left cheek and the sun warmth on my right.... I can feel.... I started to cry, I'm feeling for the first time in a loonnggg time and it hurts. My heart hurts with sadnesses but yet I am feeling.  After about 2 miles I was jogging easy and slow (to not hurt my ankle) I could feel stinging in my lungs and the water running in the ditch was making a beautiful song.  I hurt in my heart but I was so happy. Happy that I found her, I found "Maureen" she has been missing but yet I found her........ 3 miles of jog/walking and heeling.

6 months post Marathon

Well, it has been 6 months since my marathon, how am I doing??  Not good.  My first Marathon was May 18th and it was the best day of my running career.  After my marathon I took 6 days off and went for a run on May 24th, 3 miles and paced 10:10m/mi.  I ran at least twice a week from that day forward, working on some sprints and really trying to get that sub 30 5k, that would be my next goal.  June 21 was my last run until July 6th which was not very good, on July 9th all I could do was walk......  What is going on?  My right ankle behind my ankle bone on the outside hurts, and to step down or even walk is difficult, do I have an injury?  It can't be an injury because I am strong and I have never had an injury.  I took a week off and then ran a 5K in Lincoln on July 20th, running was horrible and in the 5k photo I was walking with my head down.
I took a month off from running on that day and waited.  The kettle-bell and I got close and I found it nice to get my heart rate up.  In August I saw my doctor and took another month off from running, with an occasional "cheat"  of a mile or two.  I saw Dr Darcy a podiatrist on Sept 18th, he put me in a walking cast "my boot" for 4 weeks.  That weekend I had a 5k the insane inflatables race that was already paid for so I took the boot off and ran it. It was mostly a walk run with my sister and it was very fun!!!! After that weekend the boot would be on and I was ready to heal that foot!!! Dr Darcy said that is was peroneal tendonitis with a possible tear but with the price of a MRI we would treat it the same so I picked to wear the boot.  I went for a follow up after 5 weeks in the boot and the ankle was still hurting, what the heck!!! why why why.  This time we would try steriod injections, that was on Oct 21st and I was instructed to wear the boot at all times except to sleep.  I was very compliant and wore the boot.  On November 10th I went back to Dr Darcy and the ankle felt good!!  I got a brace to wear while the strength comes back in my foot after being in the cast for 8 weeks.  How does it feel now?  Well to be honest, not good.  The pain in my ankle is back.  I have not run since Sept 20th. No big deal right?  Well to be honest it is a big deal, my running has been my therapy since 2010, my time to pray and my time to feel.  In my no running period I lost my Dad and I'll tell you that the no running thing has about killed me.  My emotions are on edge at all times.  My weight is up at least 7 lbs. even with using the exercise bike (I bike 5 miles every night)
I want to run again and I want to run now.  I am happy that I ran the marathon and I would do it again if I could :) I will wait another month without running, if the pain is still there it will be time for a MRI and lets hope that surgery is not needed.
The leaves on the trees changed color without me running in the beauty, the air cooled without the coolness felt on my cheeks with the smell of woodsmoke in the air, the sunset in the fall without me running into it. Let's see if I can get out and feel the snowflakes sting my face.
A runner not able to run, is like a bird unable to fly.

I DID IT! 26.2 miles

What can I say?  I did it, I put a goal in place and I did it.  Saturday May 17th I got up and had 2 eggs on wheat toast with a slice of cheese.  I took the dog to the kennel at 1030am can home and started pushing fluids.  I had a salad and a hot pocket for lunch, some saltines with cheese and lots of water.  We left for Sugarloaf about 2 pm in Willies truck, stopped at hannaford for waters,  Gatorade and bananas.  I drank a 32 ounce Gatorade on the ride up and we got to our hotel at about 415.  I sent a text to Stephanie and we decided to meet for dinner at 1730.  The restaurant was packed! So many people!  We stood outside to wait with our boys and Stephanie and her family.  We didn't get a table until 8 pm.  I ordered a pizza :) we got back to the room by 930ish.  I drank another water and went to bed.  My alarm went off and in the shower I went, I was excited to get going!  I had my usual bagel with banana and a coffee.  We could only do the 6am start if we planned on 6 hours, so we rode the shuttle to the start at 6am and would start at 7am.  The potty lines where short so at 640 we got in line and started to stretch.  I was able to wear capris and a long sleeve.
7am the gun goes off.....  First 3 miles we chatted off and on, I felt nervous thinking ahead the whole time!  We skipped the 2 mile waterstop and ate at mile 3, our average for the first 3 miles was 10:35.  Waterstop at mile 3.8 we walked very briefly and I picked Gatorade.  Jogging was easy and comfortable, I did not feel chatty as I was concentrating way too much.  Gatorade chews x5 at mile 5ish and second Gatorade stop at mile 5.8 with a very short stop, average for miles 3-6 was 10:51.  Our time was right on track, exactly was a wanted to get under 5 hours.... We are running in a Marathon!  Mile 7 was good at 10:46.  The hill started at mile 8 and went to mile 10, our average was  around 11:30 on the hill with waterstop at 9 and 10.8, I noticed the Gatorade was watered down so 6 chews every 3 miles.  The hill was completely done at 10 mile, the downhill after that was steep and my hips started at ache.  Going down the hill we were at the Sugarloaf enterence.  Half marathon time was around 2:22ish, just perfect!  The road was slanted and the sides were choppy with tar pieces and dirt.  My hips were sore as well as my right foot.  Around mile 15 Willie drove by with the kids, our families would be waiting at mile 17 Ayottes store!  I was anxious the get to mile 17.  We paced about 11 from 11-17, with waterstop and a 12:18 mile 15.  Creeping up to mile 17 I was hurting in my left hip and right ankle but knew my family was there so I was trying not to cry!  I could hear "go Mo" way before I could see them... They were holding signs and cheering!  I was happy to see them and I jogged by getting my second bag of gummies and stopped at water.  Steph was right behind me.  After water we went to jog and she couldn't.  Her knee was hurting.... Gawd what do we do? She stood there not waiting to quit she decided to walk a mile.  I could not leave her, walking hurt because I was cramping but I could not leave her at mile 17, we only had 9 more!!! I walked with her for the entire mile sign to sign we walked.  Bummer!  I felt like we should try to jog at least 1/2 mile then walk 1/2 mile, Steph agreed and I was happy with that.  I really could not go forth without her.  We started the training together and we will finish together!!! We stopped at every water stop taking in Gatorade and chews.  Miles 19, 20, and 21 was around 12:30mm with several walk breaks when she couldn't go on.  Our families leap frogged and cheered for us.  The family support was amazing!  Mile 22 was another walking mile, my family held signs, they were awesome and this is what they said:  We ❤️ #99, 26.2 or bust, sisters strong, You believed you could so you DID.  At mile 22 Kit was holding "I run because I can" that was part of my mantra, Willie held the second part "I run for those who can't". Seriously! I got misty again and blew kisses, I also took the list from my pouch and gripped it in my hand.  My list was of people who inspired me, people who lost life too young, people who I loved.  Mile 23-26 averaged around 14mm, mostly because of the knee injury but we would finish!! I was hurting in my right foot and left hip, otherwise I felt like jogging, for one it got us to the finish quicker and I actually had a little energy.  Going up through the street towards the finish I got excited, we were actually almost there!  My Nolan and Amelia jogged with me to the chute saying "you got this! You are there!"  I crossed the finish at 5 hours 26 minutes, not under 5 but I finished a Marathon and we finished together as planned!  Willie hugged me at the finished as well as my sisters and kids.  I was given flowers and a 26.2 sticker.  I got a juice and took a few bites of bagel, but couldn't eat.  I was excited and tired!  My shoes came off and my family kept saying how proud and how amazing I did.  I was thrilled, and I did it!  Will I do it again??? Well..... I think I will :) my sister wants to do one and I will do it with her.  My legs were sore but after 2 days not really.  I'm hoping to run this weekend.

Over thinking....

So either I write a small blog or I will blow up my Facebook page with premarathon crazy posts!  I can't stop thinking about this coming Sunday.  Am I ready? Can I do it? How bad will I hurt?  I am thinking about my big day, occasional thoughts of doubt and then thoughts of "I've got this". Today I thought "oh gawd" then the mail came at work and in it was a card for me.  It was the kindest most uplifting card I have ever gotten.  It reminded me of my strength and it was amazing.  One line that stuck was "it's far more than your feet on the pavement, it proves your strong, determined and focused". Then there was some about my mom which lifted me so high.  I hope I sleep tonight.

This is it! 1 week till Marathon!!!!!!

Wow!  This was week 17 of 18!  I'll start by going over my week.  Tuesday my plan was 4 miles, run to Christies and back.  I wanted to be nice so I brought the boys and the dog... Mistake #1 was bringing the dog.  Casey my jack Russell generally does great running with me but not that night.  Not even 1 mile in I was done tugging on him and turned around towards home, he was sluggish, my run total was 1.23.  Wednesday Nolan had baseball at the Rec field basketball court so I suited up to run from there.  I walked with Ethan to route 2 then headed up Church street to Plymouth rd.  The hill up Plymouth got my right calf burning so I stopped to stretch and walked a little.  I ended up working it out and jogged to Dyer to Route 2.  The hill up route 2 burned the calf so I walked some and then jogged back to my car.  4.24 miles done, the last 2 were great and I finally felt good.  Friday night would be another 4 miles while Nolan was at practice, it felt really good 4 miles in 42.20 at average pace 10:32.  Today is May 11, Mothers Day and the weather is beautiful!  I left the house at 6am for 7 miles with Stephanie, the first 3 were tough but after that it was good.  My right calf was tight and is still a little with some right ankle pain as well so this week I will use heat/ice.  Today's run was 7.01 miles in 1:16 with average pace 10:52.  Training is officially done with 2 small runs left leading up to next Sunday! Wow is all I can say, Wow, I actually am going to run a marathon!
My marathon will be run with the thoughts "I run for those who can't, I run because I can". I figure that because I am not disabled I should use my legs.  How guilty of me to not use them if I can.  Many people I know have fought though pain, cancers, and troubles but still smile, never complain.  Some people have left me in awe with strength they have, some people I just love so much and without their love to me I wouldn't be who I am today.  I will have a list with me for my big day with my loves and my inspires.  People who inspire me and my loves will get my mind and body to the finish.  My thought will be on them when I want to quit, their strength will continue to inspire me.  I want to give it my all, show my kids to never quit.  The last mile is for Willie, my husband who says if his legs were good he would run and never stop.  Willie who never complains of the pain in his legs and pushes through even after falling he gets right back up and never quits.  I will not quit and I will run that last mile for him, through pain and exhaustion.  To feel like quitting and not, to be at my lowest and keep going is what I will feel.  My people who will be with me in heart won't feel what I'm feeling but I might feel a bit of what they have felt and I will give it my all.  Thanks for inspiring me to run a Marathon, Thanks for supporting me to run a Marathon, Thanks from learning from me as I run a Marathon.

Week 16 of 18, last 2 digit run until Marathon day!

Week 16 is done as of today!  That means no more runs over 7 miles until May 18th.  I have mixed feelings about training coming to an end.  I will definitely miss the long runs in company.  I have found running long runs while chatting is great, it burns the time and the chats are great.  I love eating freely after my long runs, and I love the feeling of accomplishment.  I am so proud that I've stuck with the plan on cold days, rain and early mornings.  I have very little doubt about the Marathon.  I feel strong and ready to run it, only nervous about the last 5 miles due to the horror stories.  My outfit is picked out and my shoes are new and broken in.
This week I did 5 on Tuesday, that was 3 days after my 20 miler.  I actually intended to walk the 5 miles but jogged at 1 mile intervals, side note I was in Jeans :).  I guess I felt ok, my legs were good but my gut was not good.  I felt nausea until Thursday night, just not right, I wonder if it was from the 20 miler???  Thursday the boys wanted to do the loop again, this time I got in running clothes :).  5 miles around the loop with Ethan on his board and Nolan on his bike, I felt yucky until mile 2 then felt great walking only with Nolan on Rt 2.  Last run for the week is 12 miles.  Plan is with Stephanie and to finish by 8.  We planned to be out on the road by 530.  First 2-3 miles were tough, I actually didn't even want to eat my chews at 2 1/2 miles, but I managed to eat 4.  We stopped for Gatorade at mile 3, and by mile 4 my running felt normal again.  We steady jogged to mile 6, I was able to eat 5 chews and ran again without difficulty, the rain started too.  The rain run was great! Felt great and I was at peace for a while.  Mile 9 I skipped the fuel and just drank, why is my guts all messed up??? The jogging was easy, energy was good and to be honest I could have run on but 12 miles ended and I went home.  I didn't get a time because I forgot to start my time.  Seriously the 12 miles felt effortless like a 5k, except the first 3 miles :).  Next two runs are 4s then 7 on the weekend. Almost there!!! I will continue to feel confident and determined!!! I hope I feel normal after a few days.

Yes I Do and maybe another?

Funny the way your mind can play with you!  Funny how running plays with your mind!  So yesterday was my 20 miler, actually did 20.29 miles.  To be completely honest yesterday I was thinking gawd....I need to do that again and add 6 more to that?  This morning my thought was 6 more miles? That is only 2, 3 mile runs no big deal... Tonight my thoughts are... I can't wait to do that again :) 3 weeks!!!! Yippy!!! Training wasn't that bad :) I'm totally doing this again!! Those are my thoughts however.... I told Willie to never let me do it again.  My quads are stiff but not that bad, ankle feels only slightly sore, the biggest complaint I have is my taste buds are messed up from the Flovent I've been taking for my asthma flare.

Week 15, 20 miles! there is no crying or yelling during running!

Wow!  The long runs are officially done, taper time!  My plans this week were to run in Levant during Tuesday night baseball and then a small run later in the week.  Baseball was Monday not Tuesday so I only had 1 day rest from my 14.  Mondays run was hard because I was tired, I got 3 road miles and 2 parking lot miles with several walk breaks.  I ended up pacing 11:39 mm for 5 miles.  Miles are miles no matter how you look at it!  Peepers were better than the music on my iPod. My next run was Wednesday with an average pace 10:51mm, it was a quick 3 miles after dinner.  Wow my stomach was not good! Tacos and then a quick run do not go together, I was not able to do more that 3 or I would have sh*t my pants or puked.  The thoughts going through my head getting ready for today was crazy!  Friday I went to Riteaid before work to buy stuff for my nurse forum on the "patient/family portal" which by the way went very well!  The comments and support was great!  I bought a large Powerade for my beverage of choice for the day.  Friday morning I got a text from Steph that she had an emergency and will not be with me on Saturday, honestly felt so worried about her I thought about canceling my run as well.  Then I heard my moto in my head "I run those those who can't, I run because I can" I would go through with it because I need to.
Last night we had subs for dinner and went for a ride to camp.  The smell at camp made me so happy, ahhhh summer smell!  There is still ice on the lake and it is April 25th, we didn't stay long just enough time to measure some stuff and drop off a tub of clean sheets.  On the way home Willie stopped at Danforths and I bought a 6 pack (of Gatorade:)). I had small snacks into the night and drank a ton of water, I didn't get to bed until 11pm but if I get out late it is just me so it's fine.  Today I woke up at 530, ate my usual and had a cup of coffee for the ride to map my run and drop of waters. I will start at my house go up Fuller, down Irish and towards Levant school and to the store.  Then I will go down Lake road to pine tree road to fuller to home, 21 miles exactly!  I left drinks every 3 miles and decided extra chews at mile 15 so that I had room for my phone.  First mile I felt good, new tunes, new clothes and it was chilly out.  I ran steady without pain.  I drank the entire drink at mile 3.  Music was nice, I played "human" twice in a row, beautiful song.  At mile 7ish I passed a couple walking, tried not to startle them but did anyways.  Song mamba no5 started....wow awesome running song, I felt like dancing it was awesome!!!! I walked briefly at mile 8 1/2 then jogged to my drink but carried it to mile 10 where I would be on Union Street and walked and drank then.  I starting jogging again towards the store and tossed the bottle in the trash, then I paused my watch and went in to pee, real quick in and out and started jogging.  Down the lake road, it was a nice road not hilly and quiet with very little traffic, actually maybe no traffic.  Around mile 11ish the song "your going to miss this" played and I cried, I almost hyperventilated and my airway felt tight, I talked myself down and took so deep breaths.  Mile 12-13 was a little hard, I was lonely.  Half marathon time was 2:21:30, my personal best! Jogging was good from mile 13-15, I met up with another runner just as mambo started again so I was smiling and tossing my hands around (she probably thought I was crazy, I wanted to yell "I'm at mile 15 out of 20") but I didn't.  Mile 15 I checked my phone and had a text from the coach "practice at 10 at the school".  I called Nolan and told him. He told me he wanted to nap and wasn't going!  I told him I would like him to go and I hung up.  Mile 16 my guts hurt, bathroom? Puke? Not sure but I felt awful!  That goodness it passed around mile 17, I walked a hill at mile 17, it was the hill at horseback road, running after that was tough, I was tired and slow, but not too crampy, I told myself that I could walk again leading up to mile 18, which is around Irish rd cross.  I jogged half up the hill and then walked to my 18 mile drink, I saw another runner and again wanted to announce my mileage.  I called Willie and let him know I had 2 miles left and he could come towards me in like 30 minutes. He also told me Nolan went to practice, I told Willie "I can't wait to see you". Jogging was slow but steady, I walked briefly at mile 19 (hill by Christies".  1 more mile! I was jogging good, I felt strong, no real pain, I was singing loud and chanting.  Almost there!!!! I was cresting the hill to start down by the sand shed, I could see Willie in the distance, I was smiling ear to ear, when he got closer both hands went in the air! And I cried! I DID IT 20.29 miles 3:48:55.  Taper time! My legs cramped but only after I got home.  The marathon is going to happen and I am ready (do I want to run a marathon 26.2 miles?? I'm tired right now so don't ask)

Week 14 of 18

Busy at work, sore ankles, busy family, tired, honestly some excuse would be helpful.  I only did 2 runs this week a total of 21 miles.  Only 21 miles this week.... Now that seems silly to say :).  Time is slowly ticking away, one day I feel so confident and ready to tackle 26.2 miles, the next day not so much.  I'm a little worried about my right ankle so my week runs are getting cut short.
Tuesday Nolan had baseball practice so I suited up and took him to Levant.  I started running at about 7pm and I was able to secure 4 road miles in daylight before circling the parking lot.  It was raining a little and the peepers were out in areas during my run.  I felt strong, ankle was only slightly sore.  The first two miles were slow and I'm not convinced the GPS was working on my watch.  I did 6 laps to equal another 3 miles to total 7 in 1:16.  I can say that I felt like the cool mom the way Nolan waved to me as I ran up to the school soaking wet in a baseball hat with my hair braided.  The other moms were staying dry under their umbrellas :).
The next run wasn't until Saturday.  I got up at 530 ate my bagel with peanut butter half  of a banana and a cup of coffee.  I was at Stephs by 630 and we were on the road by 7 ish.  A water stop every 3 miles with Gatorade chews.  By mile 9 I was tired and ready to end the run but kept going, finished 14.04 miles in 2:39.  Hoping next weekends 20 will be better.  My right ankle is sore but otherwise good.  I am still amazed that I have almost completed the training.  I talk about the marathon daily.  I am hoping to get three runs in this week, the weather is warmer and daylight is longer.

No turning back after running 18 miles!

Wow, I've completed 13 weeks of marathon training!  It seems weird that all of a sudden I was like "I'm going to do it!" Got talking with Stephanie then the next thing we know we are 13 weeks in!  I booked our room and signed up for the Marathon this week, no turning back now.  Our last long run was last Sunday so getting the runs in during the week seems tough when we are planning the next long one on Saturday.  Nolan had baseball Tuesday night so I decided I would run in Levant again.  It was a very foggy night but spring was in the air.  My senses were in full gear, the sounds of birds, water running through culverts and the smell of pine, wow!  It was 2 down and 2 back with 1 in the parking lot.  A great 5 miles for Tuesday.  I did not run again until Saturday.  Saturday I was up by 0530, I had my coffee half of bagel with peanut butter with half banana.  I was at Stephs by 630.  I almost got pulled over as I drove by the anglers restaurant, driving 65, he followed me for about 6 miles, by the time I got to Stephs I had to pee so I went in for a second then we were on the road by 640.  I wore capris with a long sleeve top and a sun visor, Steph planted the drinks before I came which saved us great time.  We chatted the whole time!  First 3 miles were great except Stephs iPod died.  We ate at 2.5 miles our Gatorade chews and drank every 3 miles.  No music but we talked and talked about everything and anything just to talk.  At about mile 10 we talked about how we were actually doing it!  But really in all honestly our personalities would never allow quiting.  My right ankle was sore but tolerable, the bases of my feet felt fine after my mini pedi the other night.  Energy was fine, breathing seemed labored but there was no music so it might have been more noticeable going unplugged.  Our last water break was at mile 15, energy was good but stiffness when we stopped and started up again, we were able to shake it off.  We decided that if we stop to walk there is a very good chance the legs would seize up like the end of our 16 so we kept moving.  The last mile was uphill and a big uphill!! I was hot, energy was there but knowing it was the end I wanted to stop. I thought of all "my people" and fought through the last mile.  18 miles done in 3 hours 29 minutes!!!!! The last 0.25 walk to the house our legs seized up, walking was a chore, and it hurt.  It is going to be so important that we do not stop and walk for any length of time after mile 15 or the seizing will happen.  I felt very sore and tired all evening, my legs ached and sitting to watch TV was not comfortable, my legs felt jumpy.  I slept so good and today the day after my 18 miles, my legs feel strong, only minimally sore in my quads and knees.  My right ankle a little sore but I'm being very careful and not sitting criss cross.

Wind Burn!

What a week!!! I started week 12 on Monday March 31st (my Dad's Birthday).  Monday would be rest days, after a 41 mile week the previous week it was nice to do nothing!  Tuesday Nolan had baseball practice in the Levant gym.  So much snow still on the ground that mostly likely practice will be in the gym for the month.  Practice is from 7-8, after much thought about time it takes to get there and back over the frost heave roads I will stay there.  Darkness is about 730 so I figured I should run in Levant while Nolan practices.  I wore my reflective gear and headed down the road, I figured 1 mile down and back.  The first .25 of the mile was tough!  My right ankle hurt Achilles area and my knees and feet hurt, man I was feeling great but wow I'm tired.  I managed to shake it off and did 3 road miles, the last 1/2 was a little jumpy in the dark, I couldn't wait to get to the school.  I ran the 4th mile in the parking lot, I felt safe.  Wednesday I took off, and ran on Thursday.  On the treadmill I did 3 miles, it was tough, I felt tired!  Tired all day Friday and I took it easy on Saturday as well drinking water and eating protein.  Sunday is today April 6th.  I got up at 530, ate my 1/2 bagel with peanut butter and 1/2 banana, and my coffee.  I dropped waters off at mile 3, 7 and 10, Capri roaring waters :).  We started running by 640 am, it was chilly and very windy, my hat flew off.   I left my hat and we were off.  Down the hill we saw at least 5 deer.  We chatted and ran at control pace, got caught up on the week behind us.  Mile 3 was first water stop, waters were empty!!! The darn birds pecked the pouches, darn it what is up with our first water break!  Next water was mile 7, it was good and we walked a short distance.  Mile 10 again short walk 3 more deer, energy was good and I had no pain.  We finished 12 miles in 2:17, the wind was so bad, blow you sideways and back.  My cheeks are red in windburn.   Overall a good week.  I was more tired this week then anyother.  18, 14, 20 and 12 left for long runs, and to be honest 12 is not really a "long run". Crazy to say that huh?

Amazed!!

Well another week completed means that the marathon is in 7 weeks from today!  Sunday completed my 10, so week 11 started on Monday.  Monday was push-ups only because I was a little nervous of knee pain after think of the previous week, I did 50 push-ups.  Tuesday I decided push-ups would be enough and I did 30 push-ups.  Wednesday was a night of very high winds and cold winds at that.  I stopped for batteries on the way home, ate dinner then went down to the treadmill.  How can I continue to do my work and worry so much about others that I pitch in and get myself behind without anyone even noticing the sacrifice I had made!!!! I managed 7 treadmill miles with 30 push-ups, it was good to really think about how I would tackle the next day, lock myself in the office and get caught up.  Thursday was scheduled for 5 but honestly I had to force myself out, I felt tired and very irritated! Work weighed heavy on my mind.  I laced up and started out and hoped my run would help me clear my mind and shake it off.  I ran the first 2 miles with bricks connected to my shoes (at least that is how it felt). I turned at mile 2 and headed home walking for about .25 mile then slow jogged to the house.  My mind cleared like I knew it would.  Friday is a rest day! Yippy Yippy, today was great day for rest and a great day to eat :) the first time in a long time I ate lunch and felt full! I honestly thought in my head, tomorrow I will have energy because the food I ate today!  Plans were leave the house at 6 am and head to Stephs house.  We had pizza Friday night, homemade on wheat dough, I ate 2 squares and 2 slices and went to bed by 2215 after drinking tons of water.  The alarm went off at 0530 and I jumped up and got dressed, brewed coffee and put a half of bagel in the toaster.  I had time for coffee and my bagel with peanut butter and I headed out, I was nervous because my stomach felt upset (I hate to eat in the am) and I knew my last long run wasn't a full week ago.  Steph and I drove the route to leave waters and we were back and heading out at about 7am.  Excited/nervous not sure which but the run started! I felt plenty warm and the air was light.  First stop mile 3 was powerade and 5 chews.  Mile 4-6 is my favorite on the run we talked the whole time and it felt great.  Mile 6 we stopped for water and again I ate 5 chews.  My energy was good, heading to mile 9 was uphill and I listened to eye of the tiger :).  5 more chews and water.  This time starting to run we both felt stiff, we decided we stop for too long to eat and drink.  We will eat leading up to the water while in motion and stop only to drink.  Mile 11-12 was uphill and I nibbled on the 5 chews.  Water break was quick and was ok, my left foot on the bottom hurt like a blister.  The next 3 miles were good! I had good energy and felt great!  I started feeling sore in my feet, calves and knees just before mile 15.  5 chews in motion and water at mile 15, I could see the last mile.  Mile 15-16 was good but uphill, I was tired but mostly sore.  We did it, 16 miles in 2:59:50 average pace 11:14mm!!!! I feel good today (Sunday) not sore and managed 6.5 bike miles on the stationary bike.  My week was 41 miles with 109 for the month!  Bring on week 12.

Week 10, my longest run to date 14 miles

Hard to believe that I only have 8 weeks until the marathon, even harder to believe I've done 10 weeks of training.  My first run of the week was Tuesday March 18.  It gets dark at 7 pm so I knew I had time to get it done after work.  I got home and the oven was preheated and dinner was going it.  Darn it what should I do?  I really want to do 5 miles.  It was 5 pm, I chopped up some veggies and threw them in to roast with the pork, I also boiled some water for rice.  How am I getting out?  Dinner was done at 550, if I sit to eat I would not have time for 5 miles, if I don't sit to eat I get the mother of the year award for not joining my family.... Well as selfish as I am I went out... I fixed plates for everyone and started out the door.  Nolan says "where are you going, you're not eating with us?" I explained that I needed to run, he said can you make cookies when you get home? I smiled said yes and out the door I went.  My run was the 5 mile rec field loop, it was awesome!  I got home preheated the oven, jumped in shower, then baked the promised cookies.  I might have thrown in a little, I can't use the treadmill tonight, I did 10 this past weekend on it and I hate it.  My second run was Thursday, another 5 in rec loop.  I wanted 8 but after Tuesday my heart wouldn't allow it.  Weekend long run is 14 miles.  Stephanie is sick with a cold but feels ready to go.  We decided to go Sunday morning.  I set alarm at 545, got up had coffee and 1/2 bagel with peanut butter and 1/2 banana.  After driving our waters out to mile 3, 6, 9, and 12 we were on the road by 730ish.  It felt great! Our pace was planned around 11 with walking water stops, we walked further than usual during the stops as Steph felt yucky.  Our water break pace kind of set us up for a slow overall, but it was good.  I felt strong all the way to the end.  No pain, breathing was fine.  I can't believe I did 14!!! I can't wait for 16 :). My biggest issue now is hunger and chills.

Week 9 done....Strong mind!

9 weeks of Marathon training complete.  The beginning of the week had me very worried.....  I finished week 8 on Saturday March8th with 12 miles.  I knew there was a storm coming this week so I decided that Sunday March 9th I would start my week with a 4 or 5 miler.  I started out at about 3pm and at mile one my knees hurt and my legs felt like bricks, I should have turned but I guess I am too stubborn.  I ran to mile 2 where I turned and headed home to make 4, at mile 2 the adrenaline kicked in and I was running good.  4 miles done and I was pleased!  It was time for bed and while stretching out my legs something in my left knee caught me.  Owww my left knee hurts.... All night my knee hurt, it was tight and the anterior part hurt.  Oh gawd what will I do?  I am allergic to NSAIDs so I decided Monday night I would heat for 20 minutes then ice for 20 minutes.  Tuesday morning still a little sore but honestly so much better, I was able to walk stairs, no deep knee bends but that's ok!  I decided that I would rest until Thursday then I would try a run.  Wednesday night the snow started, we lost power and it snowed and snowed and snowed.  Thursday morning we were buried in snow! At least 16 inches of snow! I was working from home so during my lunch break I was going down to the treadmill I had a goal of 8 miles.  8 miles done on the treadmill, slow with push-ups every 1/2 mile, I managed 120 push-ups and 8 miles and felt great! No knee pain, whoop whoop!!!! Saturday with the roads still nasty from the storm we decided to do our 10 miles and do 14 next week.  I did my 10 on Saturday on the treadmill, average speed 5.3, with water/fuel walk breaks at mile 3, 7 and 8.5.  The power flickered at mile 2.75 which almost caused me to fly off the mill.  Accomplished 10 miles on the treadmill, this week showed me my strength, I will do this, my mind and body has never felt so strong.  To top it off Willie believes in me too, he makes me stronger!  I welcome week 10!!!!!!

Week 8.... Abandement issues

Week 8....am I really training for a marathon?  I asked myself this on most of my runs this week.  I started my training week on Sunday this week, so Sunday-Saturday is my 7 day week.  I prefer to start on Mondays but I wanted to make it a 4 run week not 3 and to run in Saturdays and Sundays are my favorite.  Sunday was 3.1 miles in 32 minutes..... A little quick for me but apparently comfortable.  The second run was a 4 miler on the treadmill.  4 miles with 50 push-ups in the basement watching breaking bad.  Thursday March 5 would be my 6 miler.  I was at work at 0650 for a 7am meeting so I planned an early dismissal so I could squeeze in 6 miles before dark.  Watching the clock all week I knew that 6 miles (little over an hour) that to stay in daylight I needed to be on the road by 440 at the latest.  I had my work done so I was out by 1530 right on time to be home by 4 and on the road by 0415, plenty of time for my 6!!! Ethan sent me a text "can you pick me up at school" I said yes and told him I was in my way, that I'll text when I get there.  4pm I'm at the school a little behind schedule but still doable.  I wait and text Ethan for 15 minutes!!!!!! I'm like so angry my time is too short already!  Finally I get him and of course a friend to drive home too and we are off.  I finally get home at 435.  Change my clothes and stop at the basement where Willie was cleaning, help him for a bit and I am finally on the road at 450...I wear reflective gear just in case.  The 6 miles was so sweet! Easy, fast and awesome.  I was in the dark for the last 1/2 mile, but honestly my speed was great!  Only one run for the week left, my 12 on Saturday.  Today was my 12 miles, Steph and I ran from here to Levant store.  We first went to drop off a car then left waters at mile 8.5 and Caravel MS which is mile 5.  Mile 3 we got stopped by 2 barking, growling dogs.  It was very scary but we didn't get bit.  Couldn't wait to get to our waters...... Up to the school we go....water? Water? Water? Gone!!! No water! What? The cleaner must have picked them up off the steps, our next water was 3-4 miles away.  At mile 7 we hit a small wall, thirst was really kicking in but we managed to make it.  Water stop then awesome jog to make our 12 miles.  Our average pace 10:55, next long run we will change it to a 14 from 13 and plan to water/fuel every 3 miles.  Crazy to think we have 10 weeks left.

Seriously week 7 is done!!

The thought of these longer runs on the treadmill make me lose my get up an go.  I decided I would do what I can to avoid treadmill this week.... My running week started on Tuesday Feb 25th with a 6 miler.  I've been watching the clock all week studying the time of darkness, with my road without a running shoulder and some snow banks still leaking into the road, any night running is out.  I got home from work Willie had started a chicken in the rotisserie so I was comfortable leaving for my run.  I went up Fuller for 2 miles then down and up Damascus for 1 to make the out and back equal 6.  Wednesday was 30 push-ups.  Thursday I had time after work for 5 miles just getting home from my run at dusk.  Saturday is my 11, the plans changed last minute so I went by myself, an out and back.  I had 2 pair of pants, 3 shirts and a hoodie, the temp at 8am was 1.  I had my Gatorade chews with me so off I went.  I headed up Fuller rd at 3 miles (homestead lane) I ate some chews, then started jogging towards the middle school.  I got to 5 miles and turned around from fear of dogs on the corner, I ate more chews and started jogging again.  (I only walked while eating). I felt warm enough but with the neck up my shoulders felt tight and I was uncomfortable.  Mile 7 was my best and I headed towards Hermon up the fuller road making it possible to reach 11 miles at the bottom of Damascus rd.  Mile 8 thirst kicked in... Omg I was so thirsty!!! The snow banks were so dirty, I tried kicking the dirty snow to find white underneath.  I only found a couple tiny ice chunks, seriously I needed water, my mouth and throat was so dry, I could hear every stream as I jogged down the road.  I walked  around mile 9 and ate the last of the chews, thirsty thirsty thirsty!!!! I finished my last two miles strong.  Got home and felt great with the 11 done, the temperature was climbing and the boys were ready to go snowboarding!  March 1st, 8 days and clocks change!!!! My legs felt a little tired but not really sore until my fast 5k tonight.  Week 8 will be 4 runs so I did one tonight.

Week 6 done

Week 6 is coming to a close, only cross training for tomorrow left.  I ran 6 on Tuesday on the treadmill with 10 push-ups every 1/2 mile or so, I totaled 100 push-ups during that workout.  I swore that I was not going to use the treadmill for 6 miles again!  It is so hard to stay on that damn thing!  Thursday I left work at 4 promptly and thought I would hurry home in hopes I could be home by 430 and get a 6 in just finishing at dark!!!!!  Willie called at 4 and asked about dinner... I had nothing planned and no groceries this week so a trip to hannaford instead of getting home to run outside.  I got home about 445, because I needed at least 5-6 miles I knew if would be way too dark so down to the basement I go.  I managed 6 treadmill miles while watching breaking bad.  Nolan came down at like mile 3 so we switched to holes at that point.  I ran without push-ups and it sucked.  Honestly treadmill for 6 miles just is awful.  Today was my 10.  I drove to Newport and went to Stephs house to start our run.  It was so icy!!!! We slipped for the first 3 miles.  We had water at mile 3 and 6.5, the last mile was hard but I think working so hard the first 3 really set us up.  Next run will be 11 and I'm in hopes that our running duo will turn into a group if 3!!!!

Week 5 of 18

Well week 5 is done!!!! What a great week I have had.  With my 7 on Sunday ending week 4, I wondered how many days I would wait to do 6.  I ended up going for my 6 on Tuesday on the treadmill with 80 push-ups.  My only complaint was my hunger all day Wednesday :) I ate my lunch at like 10am then went to Walgreens with coupons and bought tons of candy.  9 candy bars, 3 bags of M&Ms and 2 easy macs!  My eyes were big as I only ate 1 candy bar and some M&Ms but I know were it all sits :). Thursday I had ACLS so I didn't have time to run and I knew snow was coming Friday so I would plan tread vs weather for Friday.  I  decided to work from home Friday  so I kept looking at the roads to decide if it would need to be a treadmill run.  Finally Willie said "stop staring out the window and just go" well he didn't have to twist my arm much because I dressed and out the door I went.  I had 5 screws on the bottom of each shoe for road traction.  At about 1/2 mile I felt a poke in my foot "ouch" a darn screw! Not enough to hurt but definitely enough to feel it.  What a messy run.....slush, snow, ice and no where to run if a car came!! I managed 2 miles in before I turned around afraid to get hit or fall.  Non the less the run felt great all 4 miles of it.  Stephanie and I decided that with another big storm coming Sunday we needed to do 8 at 8 on Saturday.  I drove and picked Steph up at 8 am then we headed to Nokomis high, the temp was about 15 degrees.  The run was great! We both felt good, water and gummies at mile 3.75 then we ran the rest with small stops for safety when we hit ice or no sidewalk to avoid traffic.  I am amazed how good the 8 felt, we paced about 11:05 which was ok due to the roads.  I finished my evening with some shoveling and 50 push-ups. Expecting 20 inches of snow tonight I will get my cross training in tomorrow outside  shoveling :)

Frozen Thighs!

Week 4 completed yesterday!  Week 4 was a schedule of 4, 5 and 7 however it did not go as planned.... My back was really hurting at the start of the week from doing squats, at least that is what I think caused it.  Tuesday I was finally able to move a little better and I did 50 push-ups and 2 planks 60 seconds each.  Wednesday I felt a little better and managed to go for a run on the treadmill 4 miles with 30 push-ups.  I felt good, I ended with a smoothy with the boys.  I decided to skip the cross training due to the slight back injury and spend time stretching.  Friday the boys went to the mountain and Willie and I went out to eat, it was nice to get out.  I felt like I should have run but knew I could go Saturday morning on the road and that was more appealing.  I went out Saturday morning and because my long run was the next day I only did 4.  When I got home I had enough time to shower and take the boys to the mountain then get my groceries.  Sunday was the long run for the week, I drove to Stephanie's house to pick her up and drive to Nokomis high where our run would start.  The drive to Stephs had me constantly watching the temperature go between -3 to 1 degree!  I honestly would usually only run if it is at least 10 degrees so I was nervous.  I wore a t shirt tucked in, a long sleeve t shirt, my purple 8 shirt, gloves and a neck up.  We got to the school and headed out... It was actually peaceful, I wore my neck up over my mouth off a bit, we talked non stop about the temperature and how "we were ok". Our pace was right around 10mm and it felt good.  At around mile 3 my thighs really were hurting with cold, I run them some but it was cold!!! We had water waiting at mile 4 and some gummies to eat. We walked briefly to drink water about .2 of a mile.  Running felt better then walking because it was chilly!  At mile 6 a big hill started and honestly if felt like I was running in place, my thighs were so cold and I couldn't feel them, my body decided I needed to walk, we walked briskly for like .2 again then ran up the hill to finish the 7 miles!!!!! Our talking stopped about mile 6 too :). I went in Stephs house and met her adorable boys and her husband Steve.  Her boys made my heart smile thinking of when mine were little like that!! She drove me to my car and I drove home.  Today the day after our run my thighs are sore to touch like a wind burn, they are not red but definitely next time I might wear biking shorts too! We finished 7 miles at 1 hour 15 1/2 minutes.

"I run for those who can't, I run because I can"

I have completed week 3. My work week was busy of course.  This week I started a pilot program at work called the patient/family portal, if will be easy after it is all set up, I had a total of 3 hours in GoTo meetings on it.  I also started monitoring core measure on Sound Connect 2.0, of course I don't trust it so I did paper and computer.  Tuesday morning I started my list of dedicated miles.... I decided that for every mile I would dedicate it to an individual who inspires me.  "I run for those who can't, I run because I can" my verse to think of at each mile.  I decided that if I actually wanted to use some people to inspire me and to remind me of the gift I have to run, I need to tell them.  I talked to a gentleman who has fought with a panus issue for as long as if remember, he walked leaning back trying to "knee" the weight forward, truely sad! He had lost weight and was to undergo surgery on Wednesday to remove almost 150 lb from his front!  Truely inspiring to think he will start a new life! I told him what I was doing and how a mile would be his as I think of him and remind myself the gift I have and to fight as he has, he cried.  I told Willie that night too that I picked  the last mile for him.  I explained through tears that he gets the last mile because I would never quit  without a mile for him.  Tuesday night I went to dinner with work people at a fancy place in Bangor, I told many about my marathon, I may have inspired a few too:). Wednesday was my 6 miles on the treadmill, I don't remember how it went to be honest.  Friday was 4 on the treadmill with 80 push-ups, happy to say that the month ended with 500 push-ups!! I love the evenness and I didn't even plan on it :)
Saturday was my 6 on the road, it was sunny for the first time in weeks! The road was clear and I ran to homestead lane, stopping just to turn around and head back.  Today I was planning on Jillian Michaels but my back hurts so so bad!! I can't bend over, barely walk.  I don't know why my back hurts but felt as long as my runs are in I will not sweat over it.  I'm using heat and I took Zyrtec to take 400 mg of ibuprofen, got a few hives but it feels like I needed ibruptofen.  Bring on week 4!! I think I have like 11 miles assigned so far. January ended with 50 miles, 500 push-ups (girl) 30 burpees and 30 squats.

Week 2 of 18 Completed

Well week 2 is in the books!  My work week was minus 1 day due to MLK Jr day however I only did 30 push-ups for training on that day.  Tuesday was 50 push-ups and 2 one minute planks I felt tired but pushed thru.  Wednesday I went down to the treadmill and watched "Breaking Bad" while doing miles on the treadmill.  I decided to push it tonight and decided I would jump off every half mile and do 15 push-ups, on the mile I'll jump off and do 10 push-ups with 5 burpees.  I find that if I jump off every half mile or so I don't get as dizzy.  What a workout I had.... I ran a total of 6 miles, did 150 push-ups (girl) and 30 burpees! I was so tired!!!!!! Thursday was a total rest day.  My back was hurting some on Friday but I still ran 4 on the treadmill after dropping the kids off at Hermon Mnt and eating at McDonald with my hubby :) I had chicken nuggets and they were awesome!  Saturday I woke up and it was spitting snow but I knew I needed 6.  I went out and ran my 6, it was great! The people on Fuller rd must think I'm nuts to run in weather every weekend, however it is weather every weekend and I need to do a long run.  When I got home it was really coming down, I did my 6 then showered and dropped the kids off at the Mnt. I only stopped once at the very top of the hill to tuck in my shirt and "act like it was a water break" it was at the half way mark.  Today my back really hurts, but I'll sit on heat tonight.  I did my cross training Jillian Michaels, I'm amazed at how easy it is for me... My arms and legs tire some but I don't really sweat much.  I guess I really only need to work some muscles so I'll call it good!  Week 2 done!!!

Week 1 of 18 completed

Well week 1 is official in the books!! I had a great first week, a full work week and a few late nights but I managed to get in 3 runs, at least 3 days of push-ups and a cross training day.  I decided that I might need to have at least one run a week in the morning before work, I will watch my calendar and work that out.  Yesterday was my cross training day.  I decided to use Jillian Michaels 30 day shred, knowing it works core, cardio and arms.  I hooked up a DVD player in the same room as my treadmill, it took at least an hour and I was irritated beyond belief trying to get the darn picture to go on the TV, finally got it going and did stage 1.  I will say that my arms definitely are the weakest, doing the workout was fine except my arms got tired!
This morning was my 3rd run of the week, 5 miles.  Of course I woke up to snowy weather as it snows/rains or freezing rain every weekend.  I'll be honest though... I love running in the snow.  I love the feeling of snowflakes on my face, the silence on the roads, peace.  Today was the best run I've had in a while!!! My average pace was just a little over 11, I felt great.  I ran a fairly hilly route to avoid the main roads due to the weather, I saw like 6 cars and 5 snow plows which I will add that none of them had the plow down or sand being thrown.  My thoughts on my run..... I am actually going to make a dream a reality!!!!!

Is it only Thursday?

Breaking Bad

It's Saturday and I woke up to freezing rain, the roads are practically not passable so running outside is not an option.  This morning I saw a plow truck go up my road in reverse so he had sand due to the crazy ice on the roads.  I spent all day listening the the police scanner on my iphone and playing candy crush, not once did I think going down to the treadmill was a good idea.  I watch a few videos on u-tube about runners collapsing at the finish of a marathon.  I also spent time researching marathon plans because I think the one we will use needs a littke tweaking.  I thought running 22 miles would be best but according to research a long run of 20 should be the furthest.
About 4pm I decided that enough of the laziness I would head down stairs to the treadmill.  I decided that starting Breaking Bad on Netflix would be good so I started season 1 episode 1 and the jog starts.   I ran the first 1 mile, did 10 push-ups, 1.5 miles; 10 more, 2 miles; 15 push-ups, 2.5 miles; 15 push-ups.  So at 3 miles I'm 50 push-ups in, I do 10 push-ups and climb back on, this time I get off every .25 mile for 12 alternating with 13 to make the end result 100 push-ups and 4 miles.  My right should was sore and my right leg/ankle due to falling through the icy snow.

Rocky

I got home from work and made a yummy dinner, white rice, green beans and brushetta chicken (recipe from pinterest) I let it settled and to the basement I go with a basket of dirty laundry and the roku.  I put in a load of laundry and go into the room to my treadmill.  I start at 3.0 where I fiddle with the remote to find hoarders buried alive and hook my music Iinto the treadmill speakers, no fan yet as the temp in my little room is 50 degrees.  5.7 and a nice jog, my mind is thinking of others, did my buddies find time to exercise for themselves tonight?  Will those having trouble finding a purpose, find one?  1/2 mile has gone by and I jump off do 10 girl pushups, back on the tread same speed.  I really only half listen to the TV and half music, I'm warming up so the treadmill fan is on now.  I decide to run 1/2 mile jump off and do 10 pushups until I reach 3 miles and 60 pushups.  At one point eye of the tiger is playing and I felt like Rocky....running, jumping off to drop and do pushups back to running, whoop whoop Go Mo!!!! I did stop myself from spitting on the floor : p
After 3 miles and 60 pushups I do 2, 1 minute planks and I'm done for the night.

26.2 ??

Today is Monday, my quads are a little sore from my 6 miler yesterday, it wasn't a straight forward run as I was slipping with every step.  Tonight I did my planks and 45 "girl" push-ups, I planked for 2 30 sec side planks, 2, 60 second regular planks.  I mentioned running 26.2 miles three times today, I hesitated twice but said it straight up the third time.  One major goal will be to convince myself that I will do this and I will succeed.  I also wonder if my family realizes how dedicated I need to be.  I bought my high protein yogurt and will eat that every breakfast, and I'll have a glass of wine only Friday nights (this is serious :)) next run Tuesday or Wednesday on the treadmill watching hoarders, I will do push-ups/plank every night this week.

2014 Let the fun begin

Well, I decided that after my 3rd half Marathon that kicked my butt November 2, 2013 that I will run 26.2 miles.  I've run 3 half marathons, first two without stopping with almost the exact same time, im talking seconds for a difference. Oct 2011 2:25:13 and April 2013 2:25:10.  I started running May 2010 using the couch to 5k.  I started doing girl pushups with planks last month to ready for core for 26.2.  I am runnning at least 3 days a week with a long run of 6 or more until January 13th when my 18 week training will start.