Virtual Running Buddies - March 17 [Archive]

SusanMac

03-17-2006, 02:12 PM

G'day, runners! Oops...I mean "top of the mornin'"! Happy St. Patty's Day, everyone. I figured I'd kick off the week since I worked out today.

OK, I dont' have a run to report. We were out walking le chien this morning, and the sidewalks were veeerrry icy. But, I did get on the bike trainer for 30 minutes. Nothing to be overly proud of, but I was proud for just doing it (since I blew off yesterday for no good reason). It actually didn't feel as bad as I expected. So, this is hopefully the start to get me back onto a regular schedule.

I'm realizing that I have a 10K in just 3 weeks. And the Flying Pig is only 7 weeks away. Eek! (or should I say "oink"!)

Natasha - How was your trip? Love the Hog-ku idea. Maybe I'll get creative this weekend?

Les - Good luck on your race tomorrow.

Badunnin - Are you healthy & running these days?

Hello to everyone else. Hope you all have fun weekends planned. I'll be making pizza tonight for St Patty's Day...it works in our house & is about the most cooking I can muster up this week!

badunnin

03-17-2006, 03:17 PM

Hi Roomie! Good to see you back. :)

I am still running these days, and quite healthy! I just haven't been posting. :o The last run was a very respectable 63 minutes, 4.7 miles. I'm taking what seems to me like quite a few off-days, but the body is responding well, so I'll stick with this. Had a bit of an issue with blisters, so bought new shoes (my first trip to the running store. *sniff* ;) ) I got blisters after my first run in them, and was a bit dismayed, but was able to rule out the shoes Tuesday when I got blisters from my boots as well. So.... I'm giving my feets some time to heal before I venture out again, probably tomorrow.

Eva - great job on the half!

I'm off to find dinner. Dessert tonight is a Shamrock Shake. ;)

scout1222

03-17-2006, 03:37 PM

Happy St. Patricks day!

I ran this morning per the schedule. Yesterday I tripped during my run and now have scabs on my knees. :rolleyes: It makes me feel like I'm back in elementary school and have skinned my knees on the playground.

Yet again we have rain in the forecast for the weekend. This time I'm healthy, so no using that sickness to skip the running in the rain tomorrow! But our run is on the roads, so at least it won't be muddy.

Be well everyone.

aggie94

03-17-2006, 03:59 PM

Hey runners!

Susan, loved reading your NZ report. Many kudos to your DH for braving those conditions and running a formidable race. I'm sure he was disappointed that it didn't turn out quite like he planned or expected, but I'm glad you both still had a great time on your trip. Welcome home!

Bethany, glad to hear you are running and healthy! Hey, we can't ask for anything more than that. Thanks for the reminder that it's time for me to pick up new scooters too. Mine have been with me since September, when I joined the Y running club and started training for January's half-marathon, and I'm sure I've put quite a few miles on them since then.

Scout, ouch on the fall! I know how you feel, though. I tripped last fall walking (that's the saddest part) up some concrete steps and skinned both my knees. Felt like a big dork. :o Stay dry tomorrow.

As for me, I did an easy 3-miler last night with my running club group leader, although it wasn't terribly easy, since I tried to keep pace with him. I figured it was a short run so I might as well make a little more challenging. :rolleyes: I have been cross-training with spinning classes, swimming, and strength training, and it's been nice to mix things up.

Natasha

03-17-2006, 04:10 PM

Hi all!

Susan, welcome back, and thanks for the trip report. Glad you had a great time! :)

Bethany, enjoy the Shamrock Shake :D

Les, hope you feel less stressed soon and that your dad continues to recover quickly. And it's wonderful that your LW is so supportive, of course! :)

Hi to Scout, Eva, and everyone else.

Today I ran about 5 1/2 miles and went for a walk. The trip went very well, BTW :)

Take care, all,
Natasha

Leslie Ferguson

03-17-2006, 09:30 PM

A QUICK DRIVE BY!!! Just had to do that! Thanks for starting Susan and for all the posts. I'd love to comment on many but time precludes. But I'll say that yes Natasha, it's great to have a supportive wife on my side. Helps keep me from becoming crazier than I already am. ;) Glad to hear you're back and had a good trip.

I rested again today and I think I'm pretty much as recovered as I can get. For now I need to wrap up and head home. It's going to be an early morning tomorrow. The race starts at 8 which isn't too bad but I'm meeting the other 8k runners from our group at 7:15 and it's about 30-40 minutes to the beach from here (not including parking). So I've got to leave at about 6:20 or so to get there on time.

I've got a couple numbers for the races tomorrow and Sunday. My 8k number is 23143 and my half number is 9966. I think they'll have information on the Shamrock Marathon (http://www.shamrockmarathon.com) website but I'm not sure if they're going to be up to the minute (like Boston was). It's probably going to be a little chilly tomorrow and Sunday - prediction is ~35 for race start on both days. Oh well - nothing like a brisk run to get the day started. :rolleyes: :D

I think that wraps it up for tonight. Happy (end of) St. Patrick's Day to all and I'll "see you" after the race tomorrow.

TTFN - Happy trails,
Les

Leslie Ferguson

03-18-2006, 10:31 AM

Well, one race down and one run to go. The temperature wasn't too bad and the wind was a little tricky this morning. I had an ok race for the first 3+ miles (of course the wind was only in my face for the first portion of the race so I didn't have to fight it). There were 3234 runners in the 8k and my official time was 35:45.10 (162 overall, 17/200 in my age group, and 122/1371 in my gender) which was only a little slower than I wanted top run so I'm happy. But the race didn't go as well as I wanted. I had a good first three miles and I was at ~20:52 then we turned onto the boardwalk and into the gusting wind from the North. After running for about 2 minutes on the Boardwalk I had to slow down because I thought my heart was going to explode. So I dropped down to ~7:25-7:30 and brought it home. I was a little concerned because of how I felt on the Boardwalk - almost like I couldn't catch my breath so I decided (rightly) to slow down. Better safe than sorry in my book.

I think I may have had the image of the guy being rolled out of the 5k that I volunteered at yesterday on a stretcher - not a pretty sight and enough to get me wigged out considering my stressed out state these days.

But in all, I'm happy with the race and I'll be ready to take it easy tomoprrow. Just one last detail, to get moved out of the next to last corral and a little closer to the front. I put down a 1:40 predicted time in the half and one of the guys who is running with us who will be looking at about 2:00-2:15 is in the 4th corral. Go figure.

Hope everyone is having a good St. Patrick's Day weekend. I'll check back later.

Happy trails,
Les

badunnin

03-18-2006, 11:05 AM

Nice job Les! My jaw drops on occassion, though, when I look at the pace people run for a "shorter" race. ;) Here I am, thinking I'm doing well with a 13 minute mile for a 10k. :D

Choosing to rest again today - it will make 3 days in a row. My blisters are *almost* healed, and no use putting myself at the beginning again, and I know that with 7 weeks, I should be comfortable for The Pig, so there you go! In lieu of a run, I've been cleaning house. :o Feels good though.

Happy Saturday!

Leslie Ferguson

03-18-2006, 12:03 PM

Yes Bethany but you must remember that I've been running for years (I think I'm up to 13 now) and working on running fast for most of the past 8 or so. I remember when 10-13 minute miles was right in my window. And another thing, some people are just naturally fast (and that's not me either) - I ran with a girl who effortlessly runs about 15 seconds per mile faster than I do. Makes my head spin.

I hope you have a good afternoon with your house cleaning. 7 weeks to Flying Pig will be plenty considering where you are right now - enjoy your day off.

And to toss another thing into the mix my seasonal allergies are kicking in right now - love to sneeze and be congested. Maybe... I'll take that as a reason for my fizzling out.

Take care and see you,
Les

Kathy B

03-18-2006, 03:05 PM

Hi everyone! Got my third 30 minute run in today. On the treadmill as the temps are still pretty cool for my liking....had a few snowflakes in the air this AM.

Les, glad you slowed your pace a little during your race. That sounds a little worrisome. Hope it was just your allergies kicking up.

Bethany, I am right there with you. I am not very fast at all, but I guess it will come. I am impressed that you are running for over an hour and planning to do a 10K!

Susan, welcome back from NZ and thanks for posting your trip report. It sounds like a great time!

Have a great weekend!

Natasha

03-18-2006, 03:28 PM

Congratulations on the 8k, Les! Waaay better to be safe rather than sorry. Good decision to drop the pace a bit and be safe.

Today I knew my only chance to work out would be first thing in the morning, so I got up early and had a moderate-to-high intensity interval workout on the bike trainer. Then we went to a consumer trade show where there were lots of outdoor exhibits and also different kinds of dog breeds being showcased. We were volunteering at the provincial Toller club booth, educating people about the breed and giving them a chance to meet a Toller. We all met hundreds of people and had a good time. On our way back, we ran a quick errand, and now are going to have some dinner before a friend comes by to spend some of the evening with us. It's one of those hectic weekends! Good so far, though :)

Oh, and Cabot? He's probably going to sleep for most of the evening :p

Hi to everyone else!

Take care, folks,
Natasha

Elizabeth B

03-18-2006, 05:31 PM

Greetings, runners!

Susan - Thanks for the NZ report - it sounds like a wonderful time. You and your DH are so fun and adventurous.

Eva and Les - Thanks for the great run reports. I loved your pictures, Eva.

It sounds like everyone is on track for the Flying Pig. I met someone today who has run several big marathons and she said that FP was her favorite and she set a PR there, so who knows what's in store for y'all!! I hope I get to see pictures of everyone.

I volunteered at a local 5K/half marathon today and once again, had a great time. It's amazing what goes into putting on a race. Among my tasks today were packet distribution, 5K water stop, banana preparation (they come in clumps that need to be separated) and directing runners at the last turn for the half marathon. Boy, was I glad to see the police car following the final walkers!

PT is going well. I learned that my left leg is longer than my right, which could have contributed to my situation. Most people have one limb that's slightly longer than the other, but in my case, the left leg is more than "slightly longer" than the right. But only a couple more sessions and I'll be running again.

Take care, all, and keep up the wonderful running and race reports!!

Leslie Ferguson

03-18-2006, 06:50 PM

Bethany - I meant to comment previously about...
"*&%% you spell check!! "colours has a �U�!!" (Alan Doyle)
Love that! :D

Thanks for the good words about slowing down. It certainly isn't about setting a world record these days (like it ever was). I really do think it is tied to my allergies and the wind. Whatever that darned tree with dumb white flowers that has decided to bloom is just killing me. Flonase and decongestant seem to make me able to breathe better.

Kathy B - Great run. A little snow? That would be the kicker around here. Luckily it's not supposed to snow tomorrow and the winds are supposed to drop. And you can come and join us in Cincinnati - they've got a 5k too. The more the merrier!
Elizabeth - I'm glad you had fun at the race. It does feel nice to help other runners (ok it feels nice to help others regardless, at least in my book). I'm glad your PT is going well and I bet the leg length issue may have had a lot to do with your injury. Dad was diagnosed (after all these years) with one leg longer than the other so he got a lift for the one shoe and gets cortisone shots every once in a while. Hope yours doesn't develop into something like that.
Natasha - Your day sounds packed and FUN! :cool: Glad Cabot enjoyed himself and is properly sleeping it off.

To bed early tonight - I think it's up at 5 am (earlier than I get up for work). The half starts at 7 and we're getting together at or about 6:15. That and it takes 30 minutes to get to the beach and who knows how long to get parked... SO I'm really going to turn in early (it's actually 8:50 :eek: right now).

Until tomorrow - hope to have a good race report again.

Happy trails,
Les

SusanMac

03-19-2006, 10:13 AM

Elizabeth - Great job at working your local race. That is always so fun. And, you're right...also a good reminder of what it takes to pull off these events.

Les - Nice job on Sat's race, esp listening to your body. Heck, you're probably done w/#2 by now.

Natasha - How fun to work a dog show!! I haven't been to one in years. Our weekend has not been as active or hectic as yours. Other than a wedding last night, we've had an intentionally slow, dull & inactive weekend. It's been wonderful!

Badunnin - Hope your blisters pass soon. Once you're running again, I definitely recommend slathering a bunch of Bodyglide on your hotspots. I do that religiously on all of my long runs.

Kathy B - I thought you were planning to come to the Pig? (or is that KTG??) Good to have the race recommendation. It doesn't sound like a course where you can easily PR, so I'm impressed.

I did another session on the bike trainer yesterday. Still not acclimated again to the cold weather. DH & I plan to run this afternoon. We realized that we need each other to actually get out the door :-)

Kathy B

03-19-2006, 12:54 PM

Kathy B - I thought you were planning to come to the Pig? (or is that KTG??) Good to have the race recommendation. It doesn't sound like a course where you can easily PR, so I'm impressed.

Susan, I think you must be thinking of someone else. Is KTG another poster? I just started running last November with the Couch to 5K program, and I am still trying to work up the nerve to register for a run. There is a Mother's Day run that includes a 5K here on 5/14 that I am thinking about. It would be good if the weather would warm up so I could get outside and get used to running that is NOT on a treadmill.

As for May 7 (Flying Pig) I am tenatively planning to be on a trip with 7 or 8 12 year old Girl Scouts that weekend (so I will be running, just not a race with all of you :p ). I will, however, be cheering you on and looking forward to your reports!

Leslie Ferguson

03-19-2006, 01:48 PM

Quick post without a blow by blow but the race this morning went well. A lot of our half-marathoners got PRs in the race and I did better than I expected after racing yesterday. I came in under goal @ 1:38:11 - probably the fastest half for me in a while. Most of our marathoners did ok but it certainly looked like their course took a toll on them.

I'm off to feed myself (go figure) but I'll be back later.

Happy trails,
Les

Natasha

03-19-2006, 02:21 PM

Susan, how was your run with DH? :) I can certainly see why you'd want a relaxing, do-nothing weekend. Hope it's been enjoyable. We were actually not at a dog show yesterday (though I've been to tons of those before, rooting on my sister who showed one of her dogs), but at a consumer trade show. Small detail, though, especially as far as Cabot was concerned - he'd probably be equally tired either way! :p

Les, awesome run, and congrats for coming in under goal!! I look forward to the more detailed race report when you've had a chance to recover some more. I'm sorry to hear that it was a tough go for your marathoning friends, but I'm glad they came out of it all right.

Kathy, I hope you do the Mother's Day 5k. Please keep us posted! Yes, ktg0930 is another Kathy who posts on the VRB thread. She had initially said she was coming to FP, but I seem to recall she was thinking of moving and such, so am not sure if she will be joining us. I hope she will be, though! :)

Today I did an approx. 85 minute run. I intentionally chose a hilly route that's basically a series of rolling hills and gradual incline on the way up. It has been so windy all week, and today was no exception. It certainly wasn't easy going up the hills (and doing some of them twice just because) with the wind blowing like crazy at me from the northwest. But it was a good character-building run, and my last longish run before the 30k (18.6) mile race I plan to do next weekend. (Mind you, as I tried to propel myself up the hills, I questioned my decision to register for a long, hilly, windy early season race ;))

I was buoyed by the fact that the adventure racing team was over for brunch, so when I got home there was an incredible array of post-run food and some good company to boot. :D They left not long ago, we took the pup for a walk, and my mom and sis are coming over any time now to celebrate my mom's birthday. (See what I mean about a hectic weekend? :p)

Hi to everyone else, and have a great rest of weekend. Who else is out there? It's been pretty quiet in VRB-land these past couple of weeks.

That reminds me: Eva, are you still in touch with Amanda (?) who started the VRBs waaaay back when? I haven't seen her posting in eons. Anyway, if you are in touch with her, please say THANKS to her for starting the VRB threads!

Natasha

badunnin

03-19-2006, 04:36 PM

Hooray to Les and Natasha for great runs!

In order to keep the balance of the universe, however, mine was subpar. I went out hoping to do at least the 4.7 I did last time, with a larger goal of hitting the 5 mile mark, but alas, it wasn't to be. I ended up doing the 4.7 mile route, but walked the last half. It just wasn't a good one. So, I'll recharge physically and mentally (the good ones can be so good for the soul, and the bad ones equally taxing on the emotions I find) tonight with dinner (the mandarin chicken from TJs over brown rice with some red bell pepper and pea pods) and back to the road tomorrow!

Leslie Ferguson

03-19-2006, 08:46 PM

Sorry to hear that you didn't have a good run today Bethany. You're quite right, the bad ones are better teachers in most cases than the good ones. Tomorrow's another day and I like you attitude about the run and the day. I hope you wake up recharged and ready for the week.

Natasha - Sounds like you are having a little of "our wind" up there. Somehow I had missed that you were racing a 30k next week. Good luck and fleet feet to you. Sometimes it doesn't matter when you sign up for some races. Take the race today - last week it was almost 70 and this week it topped out at 49-50. Where's the sense? Isn't that great to come home to all that good food and company after a good run? Happy Birthday to mom! Yes, you've had a busy, busy weekend.
Susan - How did your run with DH go? Is there still snow on the ground? I'd love to run in a little snow once in a while (missed all the snow this year - none to speak of in Norfolk). I understand the lack of motivation to go out and run too. Hopefully you find yours again soon.

I bet you'll enjoy a Mother's Day 5K Kathy B. You should treat yourself to a nice fun run.

My race report. The day started like yesterday. We ran into a 10-15 mph wind gusting into the 20s and about 35 degrees. But for some reason the wind didn't have as much impact on the way out (first 2-3 miles were more or less into the wind) but I think the trees may have provided a little wind block. The race was really two races in one for me. The first 7 miles went reasonably well and at a pace that I kind of expected - a little slower than my pace at the Norfolk 1/2 in early February - my overall pace for the first 7 was ~7:40/mile. On that leg I hooked up with a guy who was running about the same pace and we traded barbs and jokes along the way. At ~7 miles the course turned and headed down wind (a good thing) and from there we turned an average of ~7:18/mile. He was very thankful that we ran together as I was commenting that I thanked him for dragging me in he was commenting that I helped push him along - go figure. I think the marathoners had problems because they started in the opposite direction and went their first 6 miles down wind then turned up wind and ran the next ~13 miles into the wind more or less. Top that off with weird temps (there are some interesting pockets that are considerably warmer and/or more humid in Virginia Beach). In all, the course was great and the fan support was probably the best I've seen in the 6 times I've run at Shamrock. I'd do it again.
I almost forgot to give my stats for the race too:
I finished 299/3823, chip time 1:38.09.5
45/313 in my age group and 245th in my gender

Tomorrow will be a no run day (gee, I wonder why as I'm sitting with ice on my ankle and popping aspirin). That would top off getting my dental bridge installed so I'm going to take it easy. And hey, I've got a duathlon in two weeks. :rolleyes:

Happy trails all and have a fleet week,
Les

SusanMac

03-20-2006, 10:41 AM

Les - Thanks for the race report. Sounds like tough conditions. I think I hate wind more than rain for running. Nice job coming in under goal.

Badunnin - Well, someone's got to keep balance in the universe, no? Very glad you didn't bail and at least finished your target course. Some days just feel cruddy for no apparent reason.

KathyB - Thx for the clarification. I had gotten my Kathy's mixed up! That would be awesome if you signed up for your very first race! A great way to celebrate Mother's Day.

Natasha - Good luck next weekend! That's a long distance for so early in the season. Is 30K a common distance up there? I don't see many 30K's in the States.

Seathyme - Yoga and Rocky reports, please :-)

The run w/DH went well. We did an out & back course, and he decided to kick it up on the return home. I was focusing on keeping my HR low. 70 minutes total. Aerobically I felt fine, but my legs were a bit heavy. But, glad to get it done. It was perfect weather yesterday. In fact, we overdressed as it got much warmer than expected.

Planning to run again today. My first back-to-back in a while. Figure it's a good way to celebrate spring :-)

badunnin

03-20-2006, 04:15 PM

Just a quick in and out to post a "you know you're a runner if" moment. YKYARI you push back beer with a friend by a half hour so you can get a run in after work. ;) Hellish day at work - there was a gun threat at one of the other high schools (the only one I don't work at), so all 3 high schools were in partial lock-down today. But, I got in a very decent 41 minutes, 3 miles. A bit breezy tonight - my face is now on fire. :D

Off to shower then to meet Sue!

Natasha

03-20-2006, 04:36 PM

Les, thanks for the detailed race report. Sounds like a mighty fine effort. That's cool that you found a real life RB (as opposed to a VRB ;)) to run with and so you could help each other. Funny how that works, eh?

Susan, good job on the run and I hope today's was equally good :)

Bethany, ditto. Have fun with your friend after your tough day.

How's everyone else doing, including Seathyme, Eva, Rebecca, the Kathys :D, Sara, Mary, nightcourt, Meg, and all the rest?

I took today off to spend it with my mom for her birthday. Unfortunately, I woke up in the middle of the night with a *wicked* sore throat :( I've been taking care of myself today and it's good I had the day off. My mom and I have been having lots of fun, though, hanging out, tidying up, and doing quite a bit of running around town and shopping :) Dinner is in the oven and then a quiet night of watching TV, chatting, and vegging for my husband, mom, pup and me. Sounds like just the ticket.

Now I have to stave off this cold soon - don't want to be sick for the race! 30k races are not at all common here, either, but this race is a classic. I've never registered for it before because it is so early in the season for a race of that distance, but this year I'm going to try it (and, coincidentally, so are the others in my running group, so that's a cool thing). The race is a regional tradition and the oldest road race in North America - a few years older than Boston. See http://www.aroundthebayroadrace.com. It's a very challenging course and tends to be windy (yuck), partly due to geography and partly due to the time of year it's run, so I won't be running it for time - just to finish in style ;) This year you finish in an arena (with the ice surface taken out :p), which is also pretty neat.

Anyway, can't think of that too much until I get better! Take care, everyone, and have a great night.

Natasha

Kathy B

03-20-2006, 08:34 PM

Well, my registration for the Mother's Day 5k is stamped and ready to go out in the mail tomorrow. You all talked me into it! :D I promptly turned around and talked DD and my sister into doing it as walkers, so we are turning it into a family affair. I guess I am committed now!

Did my first of three 30 minute runs for the week today, and picked up the pace a little more than last time. I am on week two of three weeks doing 30 minute runs before I start lengthening the time, and getting a bit anxious to move on. Instead, though, I am picking up the pace and feeling pretty comfortable, so I guess it is a good thing. May 14 doesn't sound very far away!

Natasha, sorry to hear you are under the weather. Hope you recover quickly! I looked at the map for the 30k, and it looks like a very scenic course.

Bethany, glad you had a better run today. Hope you enjoyed your beer! :)

Susan, sounds like you are getting back into a routine after NZ. Did you take a lot of pics? Gotten them developed?

Les, your race sounds like a lot of fun. I would think cracking jokes with someone while you run would make the miles go by pretty quickly!

Elizabeth, volunteering sounds like it would be fun, too. Banana prep, eh? I could handle that! :D

Hoping to do my next run Wednesday. Until then....keep running!

Leslie Ferguson

03-20-2006, 09:29 PM

Random thoughts in no particular order because I need to hit it...
Cracking jokes does make the miles go quickly and finding a real life running buddy is really helpful to push through the tough miles. Funny thing, I seem to remember in previous years running with the guy either at the Richmond Marathon or Shamrock 8k or marathon. He's got one of those faces that you never forget but one that it's hard to place where you know him from. Does that make sense.

Getting someone to go to a race with you is the best way to make it a commitment Kathy B. Good for you and your family. :cool:

Thanks for the 30k posting Natasha.

Baking cookies is not therapy - baking bread is. Cookies are a chore but bread is good for the soul. (I'll explain later.)

No run today - needed the rest after this weekend and the 2+ hours in the dental chair getting two teeth shaved down, a temporary bridge installed, and a cavity filled (not in that order). I've had a little "funny" stomach all day. I hope it's nothing too bad.

Stressing a lot and I need to fix that. I'm worried about things (1) I really have no control over and (2) I shouldn't be worried about (my standards are killing me).

The best thing for me right now is to go to bed and sleep.

Until tomorrow - have a great week and a wonderful time.

Les

SusanMac

03-21-2006, 08:42 AM

Les - It sounds like you need some of Seathyme's yoga to relieve your stress! While running is awesome stress release, the high activity sometimes makes me even more amped up.

Natasha - Take care of yourself. Cold-Eze lozenges and a Naked/Odwalla fruit juice are my personal remedy whenever I feel a cold coming on.

Kathy - We are so proud of you!! That is so awesome about signing up for your first race. You'll do great.

Well, after all that enthusiasm...I bailed on my workout yesterday. My stomach was feeling cruddy most of the day, so I just loafed around last night. Not sure what I ate that caused it. It was minor, but still enough to make me feel yucky. Promising to get out & run today!!

Leslie Ferguson

03-21-2006, 09:59 AM

Baking cookies is not therapy - baking bread is. Cookies are a chore but bread is good for the soul. (I'll explain later.)
My caveat should be - baking 14-15 dozen cookies is a chore. I always love baking bread - regardless of how much. Something cathartic about kneading and the smell of fermenting yeast in my book.

Les - It sounds like you need some of Seathyme's yoga to relieve your stress! While running is awesome stress release, the high activity sometimes makes me even more amped up.

Well, after all that enthusiasm...I bailed on my workout yesterday. My stomach was feeling cruddy most of the day, so I just loafed around last night. Not sure what I ate that caused it. It was minor, but still enough to make me feel yucky. Promising to get out & run today!!
Yes, I know that running can get a person amped up. In my case I think my issue is with the other things in my life including: (1) the upcoming psychological evaluation next Monday (a big deal or at least high stress), (2) bridge work (pain isn't any fun), and (3) allergies kicking in (feeling dizzy isn't a good thing most of the time like when I'm stuffed up). Yoga would be good as would good, quality sleep (which I didn't get this weekend).

I hope you feel better and that the yucky feeling passes. I may join you in bailing from working out depending on whether I try to take my bike to the shop today (before the Duathlon on the 2nd) because there's an insidious, blech, rain going on right now.

Happy trails and good runs for everyone. I second the request for information from some of our "missing few."

MaryH

03-21-2006, 10:04 AM

I'm here lurking. I leave for my trip on April 3 and things have been kind of hectic. I haven't been running much because I did something to my foot. I have this pain on the inside of my right heel. Right where the muscle runs down to the arch. Everytime I think it's going away and I plan to run, it comes back. It aches with just walking. Not sure what I did but I have a doctor's appointment next week and he'll probably refer me (but I won't get that done until after I get back.)

Sounds like everyone is getting running in (go Bethany!!). Wish I could be there for Flying Pig but I'm sure the race reports will be great. Eva, thanks for yours. Les, Natasha, take care of yourselves. Kathy, Seathyme and all the others I forgot, take care.

SusanMac

03-21-2006, 01:16 PM

Mary - Remind me again where you are going. Somewhere in the middle east or Egypt or something exotic and historical, if I remember correctly.

badunnin

03-21-2006, 07:05 PM

Les - sorry you are feeling so stressed! Sending zen thoughts in your direction. Baking bread is good therapy (although I prefer cookies as it's something I can take to school! Kids don't properly appreciate a loaf of bread. ;))

Mary - good to see you back! Have a very safe trip!

Ok folks, can we talk hydration? I do well enough (most of the time) during the day, but find that my workouts themselves lack proper hydration. When I run on the treadmill I drink my 650ml water bottle and usually keep a second on hand. When I run outside, I don't/can't drink as much, and think my runs are suffering as a result. So, what is the solution? How do you keep yourself hydrated through the longer runs?

aggie94

03-21-2006, 07:21 PM

How do you keep yourself hydrated through the longer runs?

A Fuel Belt. I have exercise-induced asthma, so it's really important for me to stay well-hydrated when I run, particularly outdoors and particularly when it's dry out (which it almost always is in the desert). This thing was a lifesaver for me. The only runs I do without it are short ones, like 3 miles or less. Tonight was a planned 3-miler, but we ended up doing 4 because the weather was nice and cool, which we aren't expecting much more of this season. I could have used the Fuel Belt - my throat and lungs were feeling parched and dry by the time I got back, especially since it was really windy.

I have this 4-bottle model, but it also comes in 1, 2, 6, and 8. And maybe some others.

http://us.st11.yimg.com/store1.yimg.com/I/fb_1886_137495

Leslie Ferguson

03-21-2006, 09:32 PM

Mary - Have a safe trip to the Eastern Mediterranean. I hope you come back with great stories about life and travels in that historic area. I fondly remember my trips to Israel (Haifa, Jerusalem, Galilee, and Bethlehem), Turkey, Crete, and Greece. I bet you'll have a great time. Maybe there will be a ocuple "YKYaRW" stories from your trip.
Bethany - Thanks for the zen thoughts. I'm a little clearer this evening and working on de-stressing even more. I know what you mean about kids and their lack of appreciation for good bread (pain de vie in my book and if I remember my French). So in their case cookies will have to do. For hydration, I'm pretty low tech (as is my norm). If I've got a source of water on the route then I carry a 500ml bottle with me and refill as necessary. If not I'll put some water in my camelback (100 oz bladder but I never come close to filling it). Some of the folks in my running group carry a bottle with a carrying holder. One that they have at Road Runner Sport is a Quick Sip Bottle (http://www.roadrunnersports.com/cgi-bin/rrs/rrs/ProductPg.jsp?baseProdKey=RRRRU912&catOID=-8983&BV_SessionID=@@@@1061531509.1143000233@@@@&BV_EngineID=daddgeilgfhhbekgcgecfeedg.0). I've never used one so I can't comment one way or the other about the bottle but it seems like I'd notice something like that in my hand. One of the reasons I don't mind a 500 ml bottle is I can easily switch hands so I don't whack one side over the other.
Great run Eva, I'm glad at least one of us got a good run in today.

As for me, the continuing saga gets a little better. Thank you all for your kind support and your notes - I appreciate all of them (especially the e-mails). I had a long discussion with LW this evening (again :rolleyes:) - she's so patient with me. She helped me remember (again) that I'm a couple things: (1) an "affirmation junkie" and (2) a perfectionist. Funny thing, I don't expect anyone else to be perfect but for some reason I can't cut myself the same slack. After having her slap me around (figuratively) remind me that I'm ok with all my warts and my self-perceived shortcomings I may actually start believing it (now that she's told me at least half-a-dozen times mind you).

For my workout today I was cut a little short and ended up with 20 minutes on the bike trainer. I couldn't do more because I had a meeting this evening and took a call that a friend (the "boyfriend") of a friend (a widow) passed away very suddenly last night in his sleep. What a bizarre call to take. Anyway, I was able to squeeze a short ride in and think that was just about enough considering my state of mind recently and my trying to get over lack of sleep, allergies, and racing. Tomorrow will be my first run (and it will be in the 50s too - not 35 degree drizzle).

Thanks again for being in my corner and for supporting me in my endeavors. I can't wait to see you in real life in May. Squeal!

Happy trails all and here's to hump day and better weather tomorrow.

Les

Leslie Ferguson

03-21-2006, 09:40 PM

SusanMac

03-22-2006, 08:44 AM

Yup, me too. Use the Fuel Belt religiously (wish I'd thought of it....this guy is brilliant and a millionaire!) For 60-min runs where I don't want to bother w/the whole belt, I just carry one of the flasks. They're really small & comfortable. Like you, Bethany, I've noticed a huge difference in how I feel during a run depending on whether or not I have fluids.

Was diligent & got in a run yesterday. 40 minutes, including some fartleks b/c I've felt sluggish on my last few runs.

Today will either be spinning or an off-day (my schedule's pretty crazy)

SusanMac

03-22-2006, 08:48 AM

Leslie Ferguson

03-22-2006, 08:56 AM

Argh - is it just me, or do you guys do this, too?? I don't always notice that there is a 2nd page w/posts. So, I get to the bottom of the screen, see that it's the last post & respond to that one. This time wasn't a big deal, but I've seriously embarrassed myself on other threads.

Anyway...Les -- Sounds like LW is well-trained in 'slapping you around.' Hopefully your talks will help you keep a positive outlook. You should keep her :-)
Yep - I have the same reaction to the unexpected second page of posts.

I think I'll keep her around - after almost 23 years it would be difficult to "break in" another wife. ;) That isn't a snide remark about breaking in my wife but that I'd have difficulties finding someone who has come to love me just like I am.

Here's looking at a nicer day to run today - in the upper 40s (not too warm) and not a cloud in sight. Of course, I can't complain considering the weather in the midwest right now.

Talk to you later and happy hump day.
Les

ktg0930

03-22-2006, 12:04 PM

Hello runners!

I've been lurking and not posting lately because it's been crazy in my life. I know you all have busy lives too and I don't know how you can keep up with everything and still post too!

I have found that I matched for the residency in Knoxville, so I will have to pass on the Flying Pig...too many things to do in preparation for the move! I will miss meeting everyone who is going.

Now, I have a non-running question for Rebecca and any other pet people who may be able to help me. We have 4 cats and have fallen in love with this stray that comes to visit us daily. We are considering taking it in, but would like to take it to the vet first. It is pretty friendly....it lets me pick it up and pet it. Do I just put it in a cage? I don't want to freak the poor thing out. And, I'm pretty sure it's a fixed male...we have one male and three females, all fixed. Do you think the males would have territory issues with spraying and such? Thanks in advance for any advice!

Kathy

Kathy B

03-22-2006, 12:07 PM

HI, all! Got my second 30 minute run of the week in early today, because I had to get DD to an overlooked orthodontist appt., then rush DS over to the HS where he was leaving on a Spring Break trip with the band. Nice to get my workout out of the way early in the day!

DD and I are heading OOT, too, so my next 30 minute run will have to wait until Saturday afternoon. Hopefully I can work in some form of exercise while we are gone, although I am sure we will do quite a bit of walking on our short trip.

Natasha, I sure hope you have beaten back whatever was ailing you. Good luck on your 30K Sunday!

Les, Sounds like some yoga is definitely in order. Not only is it a good workout in itself, but the relaxation at the end is MOST beneficial. Like a really deep sleep, only you don't go to sleep.

Bethany, I am glad you asked about the hydration issue, because I have been wondering about it myself. I don't usually drink while I run on the treadmill. Not sure I COULD without stopping, but I sure would like to. How do you do it without stopping or spilling or stumbling as you do it? Do you slow down briefly? Susan and Eva, same question really. The fuel belt looks good, but do you just drink as you run or do you have to slow down a bit? I am sure I would not like to carry anything in my hands while I run, but does the extra weight around your waist bother you? Seems like it would be a little distracting, but I guess maybe I could get used to it.

Hi to everyone else, and wishing you all good runs! :)

badunnin

03-22-2006, 01:40 PM

Thanks for all the info on hydration! I have a water bottle in a waist pack, but it's not big enough and I have a hard time getting it in and out. KathyB - I do stumble and get myself a bit wet ;) but just keep going. A little water won't kill me! I'll stop at REI in the next few days to look at my options.

Ok, putting on my Logisitics Lady hat for a moment. For the FPers, we need to make a decision on a restaurant. Does anyone have budget concerns? The guideline I heard from one Piglet (if I may call us that) was under $30 for dinner. Does that sound reasonable? I'm going to start a thread on the Other Stuff board asking for recs, then compile a short list. Work for everyone?

Also, I have a rough itinerary for us. You will all receive a copy, along with a goody bag at VRB registration. Oh, no, wait. You won't. :D

Friday:
Arrival & Registration
7:30 - meet at a hotel for introductions (Trudi will bring snacks,
but bring your own beverage!)

Saturday:
5k/10k
Race Expo
12pm - Jungle Jim's and lunch
Me-time (time on your own to spend as you choose, alone or with others, etc.)
5pm - dinner

Sunday:
Marathon/half-marathon
Lunch?
Departure (sob!)

aggie94

03-22-2006, 02:35 PM

I don't usually drink while I run on the treadmill. Not sure I COULD without stopping, but I sure would like to. How do you do it without stopping or spilling or stumbling as you do it? Do you slow down briefly? Susan and Eva, same question really. The fuel belt looks good, but do you just drink as you run or do you have to slow down a bit? I am sure I would not like to carry anything in my hands while I run, but does the extra weight around your waist bother you? Seems like it would be a little distracting, but I guess maybe I could get used to it.

I am not bothered by the belt around my waist at all. In fact, I don't even notice it's there when I'm running. And it's nice to have a place to put my car keys (in the pouch in back). :)

I can take a flask out of it's elastic pouch, drink, and put it back no problem without having to adjust my stride. But then again, I'm a slow runner to start with. :o I'm not sure I could do it as easily running a 7:00 pace, but since I'll never be that fast (or even close!), I guess I'll never really know the answer to that. ;)

Sorry I'm not more helpful. Can you check your local running store and see if you can buy one, try it out, and return it if you don't like it?

badunnin

03-22-2006, 05:18 PM

I am not bothered by the belt around my waist at all. In fact, I don't even notice it's there when I'm running. And it's nice to have a place to put my car keys (in the pouch in back). :)

This is why I bought a Camelbak tonight actually. When I did the Breast Cancer 3-Day, I ended up with bruises on my hip bones (pelvis? The ones in front) from wearing a pack with 2 water bottles. We'll give it a shot and see.....

FWIW, I've named her Alice. (I name all my bags...)

SusanMac

03-22-2006, 06:25 PM

Fuel Belt -- I also don't have to change my stride when I drink. But, sometimes I do walk just for a good excuse :-) I do think it will take several runs to get used to doing that, however, just b/c you're not used to it. It took me a while to get used to taking the flasks out & putting them back into the little elastic holsters. It doesn't jiggle around at all and was designed that way. The hiking-style belts w/large bottles will bounce on your hips. The FB shouldn't. On runs over 60 min (or when it's esp hot) I try to drink about every 10 min or so. I think the Camelbacks look uncomfortable, but Les swears by his. It's tough to predict which style you'll like best. Definitely talk the store into letting you run around the block w/a sample.

Bethany - you are so organized!! I love it. Not sure I"ll be able to arrive Fri by 7:30. Might not be until late. The rest of the schedule looks great, tho. The dinner budget looks good. Great idea to post on the Other board. Who's Trudi??

KTG - We'll miss you at the Pig. But, congrats on school & your move.

No workout today. Not ideal, but that's OK. On to tomorrow.

badunnin

03-22-2006, 06:33 PM

Bethany - you are so organized!! I love it. Not sure I"ll be able to arrive Fri by 7:30. Might not be until late. The rest of the schedule looks great, tho. The dinner budget looks good. Great idea to post on the Other board. Who's Trudi??

I have my organisational moments. ;) Trudi is my nickname.

Natasha

03-22-2006, 08:01 PM

I know I've gushed about my Camelbak before, but I'll put in another plug for it just 'cause ;) My husband sewed little holders on each side for my gel flasks. I do need to adjust my Camelbak a bit at the moment, though. I've never had success with a belt, but that's probably just me. Bethany, congrats on your purchase!

Hey! I am not a piglet! Okay, maybe I am ;)

I did a gentle run today - just over 5 km - and went for a great massage. Yesterday I was too sick to train.

Kathy, I'm sorry you won't be able to join us, but congrats on the residency in Knoxville!!

Oh, and as for Trudi's grand plan, I volunteer my hotel room for the drinks get-together on Friday night (unless anyone else would prefer to "host", which is cool too!). My husband and I are at the Embassy Suites and the suites tend to be fairly spacious so good for having a few folks over.

Hope everyone's doing well. Take care,
Natasha

Leslie Ferguson

03-22-2006, 09:17 PM

Oh, and as for Trudi's grand plan, I volunteer my hotel room for the drinks get-together on Friday night (unless anyone else would prefer to "host", which is cool too!). My husband and I are at the Embassy Suites and the suites tend to be fairly spacious so good for having a few folks over.
Natasha (et al) We're there too (at ES) so maybe if fate serves we'll be close. Could you imagine a double suite for the VRB for a get together? Do you think Kentucky/Ohio would survive? ;)
I know I've gushed about my Camelbak before, but I'll put in another plug for it just 'cause ;) My husband sewed little holders on each side for my gel flasks. I do need to adjust my Camelbak a bit at the moment, though. I've never had success with a belt, but that's probably just me. Bethany, congrats on your purchase!
I'm pretty much a Camelbak fan too - especially in Norfolk in the summer when I'm trying to be dutiful about drinking 8oz of water for every 15 minutes of running - a rule of thumb that works to keep you sufficiently hydrated. I read somewhere that most runners perspire abuot 1/2 lb per 15 minutes of running (it didn't seem to matter whether you were faster or slower because it worked for most of our team) so for a 90 minute run I figured I needed about 48 oz of water to not lose or gain weight from water and for the most part I maintained. But I digress... I've never really had luck with belts (I don't really have the shape for the belt to stay up) but most of our runners that wear them swear by them and don't seem to have any difficulty getting the bottles in and out of the holders.

Bethany/Trudi - Your plan sounds fine and I liked the post on the Other things board. I hope something good comes out of that. We should be in Cincinnati before 7 as long as we get out of DC at a reasonable hour.
Congrats ktg (I'm going to have to be specific around here with you and Kathy B and "my" Kathy - OY VEY!) on your residency. I'm happy for you.
Natasha - I'm a little envious of your massage... but then again I could really use one to release my upper back a little. Oh well, maybe sometime soon.

Greetings to Susan and the rest of the gang. I had a good run tonight. It felt good to have laid off for two days - I really needed it after two races. I did my 8.25 mile loop after work. The temp was at that weird place - ~48 with a little breeze. Since the sun was going down I opted for long sleeves and tights. I think that was a good call since I'm still a little whacked from the weekend's events and fighting off the allergies and congestion (which may be caused by something else). FWIW - I got a note from my Dad, he's doing better but still a little out of it. It would have been better if two of the folks in his church hadn't died last week because he had to do two funerals this week. :rolleyes: But he figures he'll lay low until next Monday and be able to be back at it at almost full speed. Thanks for your wishes.

Feeling good and ready to turn in - still sleeping weird but now I'm sleeping. And this is a good thing.

Until tomorrow VRB and runnahs...

Les

SusanMac

03-23-2006, 11:05 AM

I need the creative minds of the VRB

Some good friends are doing the Ironman Arizona in a few weeks, and DH & I want to make them a care package. It's their very first IM and they are nervous. For DH's first IM, they sent him a package (Ben Gay, Tylenol, bandaids, Gu, sunscreen, etc). So, I'm wanting to create something different. Can you guys help? I'm stuck!

I was thinking of a quasi-kids theme (they plan on starting a family after the IM):
* Floaties for the swim
* Bike bell or reflectors for the bike
* I'm stuck on the run?? What did you need to run when you were a kid??
* Ben & Jerry's gift certificate to celebrate after the race (or maybe some jelly beans. Something sweet & fun)

I'm up for a totally different theme altogether, if you guys can think of something.

Any ideas??

Leslie Ferguson

03-23-2006, 09:55 PM

Susan - I'll have to give the gag gift for the run portion a couple thoughts but my first inclination would be a propeller hat or one of those hats that has a fan built into the bill. Maybe you might go down the body-glide/aquaphor/vaseline road too. How about a bottle of bubbles - I remember running all over the yard with my bubbles trying to make tons of bubbles. (Or was that just yesterday? I forget. :D ) One last thought would be something to do with shoes - like keepers or velcro or even a little pocket with his name on it. (remember as a kid having your mom sew your name on everything so you wouldn't lose it? I hope I get creative overnight.

I had a good workout tonight, even if it was kind of late. I rode my bike on my trainer for a little over an hour. It felt good to ride and I really didn't want to wrestle with the changing temp as the sun went down around here again. I also had a good day at work to cap last night's full night of sleep (no nighttime nature calls :rolleyes: ).

I guess I'll wrap up now. I got started late (for lots of reasons - a note from Dad that I needed to process) and I need to bring the week to a close with some energy so I'll head home now and see you all tomorrow. If not have a great running weekend.

Happy trails,
Les

aggie94

03-23-2006, 10:10 PM

Susan, I am the least creative person ever, but wanted to wish your friends good luck at Ironman AZ.

I think I am dying tonight. :eek: :o I met up with my running club at 6:00 and told them I wanted to do a short, fast run so that I could make the 6:30 spinning class. I went last night, and the instructor promised an "easy" class tonight. So we went out for a fast 2-mile run. And man, was it fast. I tried my hardest to keep up with the others and mostly succeeded. Mike thinks we were running at around a 9:30 or slightly faster pace. That's darn fast for me.

I wanted to throw up when we were done, but I couldn't, since I was going to spinning. I should have known better when the instructor promised an "easy" class that "easy" for an Ironman athlete is not what I would consider to be easy. It was a tough class, but a good workout. And now, I deserve a day off (which I haven't had since last Friday). Taking in a spring training game tomorrow afternoon (SF Giants v. CO Rockies), then NOT working out. :)