My sister's bachelorette party was this past Saturday. It was held at an upscale restaurant in the town that she lives. The backroom of the restaurant was reserved for the party. The theme of her party was "Sex and the City." Sex and the City, the movie, was shown during the party on a huge pull down screen.
The party started off well. Everyone was talking, drinking and having fun. The room which the party was held, was lined with windows. At one point, a truck full of guys walked up to the restaurant. My sister's friends were joking that those were the strippers hired for the party. A couple of minutes later, the manager of the restaurant came back to tell my sister that she told the truck full of guys that a party was going on in the back. As soon as she told my sister that, these guys are in the backroom with us. They came back and asked what the party was for. My sister's friends said it was her bachelorette party. That made the hoot and holler. One of the guys grabbed a chair and had my sister sit on his lap. I could tell she was a little embarrassed by it, but she played along. The group of guys stayed for a while, then went back into the restaurant.
During the course of the party, note cards were passed around. On the note cards were things that the group wanted my sister to do. It was a little like Truth or Dare, but with dares only. A little while later, the guys were back. This time my sister's friends pulled out the card that read " slap an ass" and told my sister to do it. The guy who's lap she sat on earlier was more then happy to cooperate. He bent over a chair and waited for the slap. My sister played along and did it. Then the guy offered to give her a lap dance. Which he did. After a few laughs the guys left again to go back up front.
Things calmed down a bit while we ate dinner. The food was wonderful. The steak was cooked perfectly and the green beans were delicious. After dinner, the guys came back again. The guy who had his ass slapped and gave my sister a lap dance, was asking my sister some questions. He was asking about her fiance and what she did for a living. She then asked the guy what he did. He said he was a spotter for a NASCAR driver. He pointed to one of his buddies and said that was the crew chief. All of the guys he came to the restaurant with worked on a NASCAR pit crew. They were in town because the NASCAR guys were racing at Michigan International Speedway. After their conversation, he congratulated my sister on her upcoming wedding and left the backroom.
Once again my sister's friends decided to pull another dare card for my sister. This time the card read, "get a guy to give you his underwear." All of the girls thought that the younger guy in the group would do it. They all ran out of the backroom hoping to catch him before they left. They did. I didn't want any part of that, so I stayed in my chair. I did hear a lot of yelling and cheering from the restaurant. A couple of minutes later my sister comes back. She said he did take off his underwear and give it to her. She gave them back to him. I couldn't believe that this guy willingly gave away his underwear. Awkward.
When I got married ten years ago, I also had a bachelorette party. My party was very tame compared to my sister's. I went to a local bar with my friends and my sister and had a couple of drinks. I hope my sister enjoyed her party. It was wild and her friends took pictures to prove it.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Mud Dollop Wallop
I really didn't even want to run this race. I was asked and I didn't want to let anyone down. I said yes knowing I would be running through mud and water. If you know me, you know I hate running with wet shoes and socks. It is just a nasty feeling.
Before the race started, I knew I would be running through water. I just didn't know how many times. I was talking to the race director and he said that for one of the water crossings it was best to use the rope. I wondered why. I thought the water that we had to run through only come up to mid-calf level. He told me that the water came up to waist level or higher. I asked him if he was serious. And he was. The though of running through water that high really didn't make my day.
I ran the first leg of the relay. All legs had to run about 4 miles. When the race started, we had to negotiate around some tractor tires. Most of the people were going through them, I ran around the side with a couple of other runners. Yes, I'm a cheater. The first part of the run was really nice. Just trails and open fields. I caught and passed a couple of runners. The path then lead us from a nice open field into some swampy areas of the trails. It was there we had to run through our first puddle. As soon as I ran through it, the muddy water filled up in my ankle braces. That feeling was really gross. I had wet shoes, socks and ankle braces. I kept going and eventually the water seeped out of my shoes and ankle braces.
The trees and foliage pretty much blocked everything in sight. When I heard people yelling, I knew that the first water crossing was around the bend. I run up to it and see black, muddy water. Everyone crossing was caked with black mud. I jumped into the pit near the rope. It was so gross. The muddy water was thick and it smelled. I was using the rope to wade across and the mud on the bottom almost ripped off one of my shoes. I was so glad it didn't come off. Climbing out of the pit, mud went flying every where. Our next immediate challenge was to climb up a steep hill. My shoes were covered in mud and I couldn't get any traction. I decided to crawl up the hill. It worked and helped me get up the hill faster.
I caught three to four people ahead of me. They were exhausted by the hill and were walking. During the course, we had plenty of tree trunks, and branches to climb over, jump over or crawl under. I just kept looking at the trail about 10 feet in front of me to make sure I didn't trip. We had a couple of more hills, that I crawled up those too.
Nearing the end of the course, I thought we were all done with water crossings. I was wrong. I said to myself, "Is this necessary?" We had to jump down into a stream. The water came up to mid-calf. It was so slippery. There were six of us together and we all walked the long stream. A couple of times, I slipped. I tried to catch myself on the high banks of the stream. It worked. I was grabbing for anything and grabbed a thorny branch, twice. Ouch. I got a sliver in my figure. I belief it is still embedded in my finger. Neat. After the stream, two girls passed me. I was trying my hardest to catch them. I was so close.
I made it out of the trail in one piece. I was muddy, soaking wet and almost near the relay exchange. The course had one more giant hill to climb. I crawled up the hill again, ran through a mud pit and slapped hands with my team's next runner. I finished the trail run in 40:13. That is pretty good for running through mud, climbing huge hills and walking through streams and mud pits. My team finished 18th overall in 1:50:14. There were 41 teams that participated.
This race was OK. I definitely wasn't a fan of the water and mud. I like to run races where I don't get dirty. I have only one more race this year where I will get soaked and dirty and that is Dances with Dirt 50K. After DWD, I don't think I will be running anymore of these races. I will gladly volunteer next year at the Mud Dollop Wallop, but mud and water during a race isn't for me.
Before the race started, I knew I would be running through water. I just didn't know how many times. I was talking to the race director and he said that for one of the water crossings it was best to use the rope. I wondered why. I thought the water that we had to run through only come up to mid-calf level. He told me that the water came up to waist level or higher. I asked him if he was serious. And he was. The though of running through water that high really didn't make my day.
I ran the first leg of the relay. All legs had to run about 4 miles. When the race started, we had to negotiate around some tractor tires. Most of the people were going through them, I ran around the side with a couple of other runners. Yes, I'm a cheater. The first part of the run was really nice. Just trails and open fields. I caught and passed a couple of runners. The path then lead us from a nice open field into some swampy areas of the trails. It was there we had to run through our first puddle. As soon as I ran through it, the muddy water filled up in my ankle braces. That feeling was really gross. I had wet shoes, socks and ankle braces. I kept going and eventually the water seeped out of my shoes and ankle braces.
The trees and foliage pretty much blocked everything in sight. When I heard people yelling, I knew that the first water crossing was around the bend. I run up to it and see black, muddy water. Everyone crossing was caked with black mud. I jumped into the pit near the rope. It was so gross. The muddy water was thick and it smelled. I was using the rope to wade across and the mud on the bottom almost ripped off one of my shoes. I was so glad it didn't come off. Climbing out of the pit, mud went flying every where. Our next immediate challenge was to climb up a steep hill. My shoes were covered in mud and I couldn't get any traction. I decided to crawl up the hill. It worked and helped me get up the hill faster.
I caught three to four people ahead of me. They were exhausted by the hill and were walking. During the course, we had plenty of tree trunks, and branches to climb over, jump over or crawl under. I just kept looking at the trail about 10 feet in front of me to make sure I didn't trip. We had a couple of more hills, that I crawled up those too.
Nearing the end of the course, I thought we were all done with water crossings. I was wrong. I said to myself, "Is this necessary?" We had to jump down into a stream. The water came up to mid-calf. It was so slippery. There were six of us together and we all walked the long stream. A couple of times, I slipped. I tried to catch myself on the high banks of the stream. It worked. I was grabbing for anything and grabbed a thorny branch, twice. Ouch. I got a sliver in my figure. I belief it is still embedded in my finger. Neat. After the stream, two girls passed me. I was trying my hardest to catch them. I was so close.
I made it out of the trail in one piece. I was muddy, soaking wet and almost near the relay exchange. The course had one more giant hill to climb. I crawled up the hill again, ran through a mud pit and slapped hands with my team's next runner. I finished the trail run in 40:13. That is pretty good for running through mud, climbing huge hills and walking through streams and mud pits. My team finished 18th overall in 1:50:14. There were 41 teams that participated.
This race was OK. I definitely wasn't a fan of the water and mud. I like to run races where I don't get dirty. I have only one more race this year where I will get soaked and dirty and that is Dances with Dirt 50K. After DWD, I don't think I will be running anymore of these races. I will gladly volunteer next year at the Mud Dollop Wallop, but mud and water during a race isn't for me.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Penciled in
I was so excited Friday morning because I had plans with my husband to play Putt-Putt. Both those plans were changed due to my husband's work schedule.
Starting on Thursday, my husband was really busy with work. He had to work overtime Thursday, work his normal shift Friday plus more overtime and worked another normal shift Saturday. When he came home, I was already gone to my sister's bachelorette party. When I came home, we saw each other for about an hour and went to bed. Finally on Sunday, my husband worked his normal shift, then worked more overtime until 1 a.m. Monday morning. That is a lot of work.
My husband felt bad that we had to break our date for putt-putt Friday. We have penciled in some new plans and I hope it works out. We have made plans to play putt-putt Tuesday. I really hope we can make these plans work. The month of June has been one of the busiest that I can remember. Every weekend I have been busy and my husband has been working a bunch of hours. We need some time together. We try to spend as much time with each other as possible, but I need more then one to two hours. With these plans on Tuesday, it should be an entire afternoon spent with my husband. Yay!
Starting on Thursday, my husband was really busy with work. He had to work overtime Thursday, work his normal shift Friday plus more overtime and worked another normal shift Saturday. When he came home, I was already gone to my sister's bachelorette party. When I came home, we saw each other for about an hour and went to bed. Finally on Sunday, my husband worked his normal shift, then worked more overtime until 1 a.m. Monday morning. That is a lot of work.
My husband felt bad that we had to break our date for putt-putt Friday. We have penciled in some new plans and I hope it works out. We have made plans to play putt-putt Tuesday. I really hope we can make these plans work. The month of June has been one of the busiest that I can remember. Every weekend I have been busy and my husband has been working a bunch of hours. We need some time together. We try to spend as much time with each other as possible, but I need more then one to two hours. With these plans on Tuesday, it should be an entire afternoon spent with my husband. Yay!
Friday, June 17, 2011
Weekend plans
I will be running another relay race this weekend. It is much shorter then the Ragnar Relay I participated in last week. Ragnar was almost 200 miles from Madison, Wisconsin to Chicago, Illinois. This relay race is on a trail and is only 12 miles. There are three people on each team and we run about four miles each on the trail. The part of the trail race I'm not too fond of is running through water and mud. This relay race is called the Mud Wallop Dallop. It promises that we will be covered with mud and water when we finish. I will be bringing extra clothes to change into after my leg is done. I don't think I could walk around in wet shoes and socks for too long. It just feels so gross.
Besides the trail relay race Saturday, later in the evening I will be attending my sister's bachelorette party. This bachelorette party will not be wild or out of control. We are meeting at a fancy restaurant to eat, drink (everyone but me) and enjoy my sister's company. I hope my sister will enjoy this get together and the last few days of being single. I can't believe she gets married next week. I hope she has a long and wonderful marriage.
Besides the trail relay race Saturday, later in the evening I will be attending my sister's bachelorette party. This bachelorette party will not be wild or out of control. We are meeting at a fancy restaurant to eat, drink (everyone but me) and enjoy my sister's company. I hope my sister will enjoy this get together and the last few days of being single. I can't believe she gets married next week. I hope she has a long and wonderful marriage.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Looking forward to the weekend
I will be heading to Battle Creek Friday to photograph a softball state semifinal game. The game is about an 1.5 hours away from my home, so I will have to adjust my running schedule. Everything revolves around my running. I ran 22 miles on Wednesday and I plan to run 22-23 miles again today. Since I will have only a short time before getting in my car and driving to the game, I plan to run a short 3.1 miles Friday.
What I'm really looking forward to is the plans I have with my husband after the game. After I finish work, we will be driving down to Toledo, Ohio to play Putt-Putt golf and eat dinner. It is something we do every summer. My husband usually wins. Most of the time the score is not even close. My putting skills are not good. But I love it. We get to spend time together, enjoy each others company and laugh.
What I'm really looking forward to is the plans I have with my husband after the game. After I finish work, we will be driving down to Toledo, Ohio to play Putt-Putt golf and eat dinner. It is something we do every summer. My husband usually wins. Most of the time the score is not even close. My putting skills are not good. But I love it. We get to spend time together, enjoy each others company and laugh.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Books read in 2011
The Laughing Corpse, Laurell K. Hamilton
Circus of the Damned, Laurell K. Hamilton
The Vampire Diaries: The Awakening and The Struggle, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: The Fury and Dark Reunion, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: The Return: Nightfall, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: Stefan's Diaries: Origins, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: Stefan's Diaries: Bloodlust, L.J. Smith
Ultramarathon Man: Confessions of an All-Night Runner, Dean Karnazes
The Kennedy Detail, Gerald Blaine with Lisa McCubbin
The Kennedy Assassination: 24 Hours After, Steven M Gillon
50/50: Secrets I Learned Running 50 Marathon in 50 Days, Dean Karnazes
The Brotherhood: A Precinct 11 Novel, Jerry B. Jenkins
127 Hours, Aron Ralston
JFK and the Unspeakable: Why He Died and Why It Matters, James W. Douglass
My Life on the Run, Bart Yasso
On the Trail of the JFK Assassins, Dick Russell
Run!: 26.2 Stories of Blisters and Bliss, Dean Karnazes
The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest, Steig Larsson
Second Wind: One Woman's Midlife Quest to Run Seven Marathons on Seven Continents, Cami Ostman
The Scarpetta Factor, Patricia Cornwell
Dual in the Sun: Alberto Salazar, Dick Beardsley and America's Greatest Marathon, John Brant
Born to Run, Christopher McDougall
Iron Heart, Brian Boyle
Running With Joy: My Daily Journey to the Marathon, Ryan Hall
Scarpetta, Patricia Cornwell
Predator, Patricia Cornwell
Port Mortuary, Patricia Cornwell
Relentless Forward Progress: A Guide to Running Ultramarathons, Ryan Powell & Eric Grossman
Running on Empty: An Ultramarathoner's Story of Love, Loss and a Record-Setting Run, Marshall Ulrich
I'm Here to Win, Chris McCormack
Currently Reading: Book of the Dead, Patricia Cornwell
Up Next: The Vampire Diaries: The Return: Shadow Souls, L.J. Smith
Circus of the Damned, Laurell K. Hamilton
The Vampire Diaries: The Awakening and The Struggle, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: The Fury and Dark Reunion, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: The Return: Nightfall, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: Stefan's Diaries: Origins, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: Stefan's Diaries: Bloodlust, L.J. Smith
Ultramarathon Man: Confessions of an All-Night Runner, Dean Karnazes
The Kennedy Detail, Gerald Blaine with Lisa McCubbin
The Kennedy Assassination: 24 Hours After, Steven M Gillon
50/50: Secrets I Learned Running 50 Marathon in 50 Days, Dean Karnazes
The Brotherhood: A Precinct 11 Novel, Jerry B. Jenkins
127 Hours, Aron Ralston
JFK and the Unspeakable: Why He Died and Why It Matters, James W. Douglass
My Life on the Run, Bart Yasso
On the Trail of the JFK Assassins, Dick Russell
Run!: 26.2 Stories of Blisters and Bliss, Dean Karnazes
The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest, Steig Larsson
Second Wind: One Woman's Midlife Quest to Run Seven Marathons on Seven Continents, Cami Ostman
The Scarpetta Factor, Patricia Cornwell
Dual in the Sun: Alberto Salazar, Dick Beardsley and America's Greatest Marathon, John Brant
Born to Run, Christopher McDougall
Iron Heart, Brian Boyle
Running With Joy: My Daily Journey to the Marathon, Ryan Hall
Scarpetta, Patricia Cornwell
Predator, Patricia Cornwell
Port Mortuary, Patricia Cornwell
Relentless Forward Progress: A Guide to Running Ultramarathons, Ryan Powell & Eric Grossman
Running on Empty: An Ultramarathoner's Story of Love, Loss and a Record-Setting Run, Marshall Ulrich
I'm Here to Win, Chris McCormack
Currently Reading: Book of the Dead, Patricia Cornwell
Up Next: The Vampire Diaries: The Return: Shadow Souls, L.J. Smith
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
The drive home
After returning back to Madison, Wisconsin after the Ragnar Relay Saturday, I packed up my car, said goodbye and thank you to my teammates and started the long drive home. Home was only seven hours away.
I started my drive around 4:15 p.m. I was hoping to be back at home around midnight. I knew I would make up some time on the interstate. The drive went well. Spent most of the time changing the radio stations. I guess I was too lazy to press the button to start the CD I had in the player. I heard Adele and Katy Perry a lot on the drive. It seemed like every time I turned to another radio station "Rolling In The Deep" was playing. Overkill.
I did get a chuckle seeing the Belvidere Tolloway Oasis. On the drive to Madison, I called my husband to let him know I stopped for gas. It just happened to be at the Belvidere Tolloway Oasis. The message I left for my husband was cute. I said that I stopped at Belvidere to get gas and I didn't see "any streaks on the china." Growing up my husband and I both watched Mr. Belvedere. The first line of the theme song is "Streaks on the china, never mattered before,
who cares." Yes. I'm a dork.
The drive was going smoothly until I hit Chicago. So many cars, not enough space equals backups. I was in Chicago traffic for a half hour or so. That put me a little behind schedule. Once I was out of it, I hammered down. Just going 7-8 mph over the posted speed limit.
The day started to turn into night. I stopped for gas somewhere in Indiana. I filled up my car, made a pit stop and I was back on the road. When the sky finally went dark, that is when I started yawning. I was singing, screaming, biting the inside of my mouth and tongue to stay awake. I wanted to get home. It finally came to the point where I knew I couldn't keep my eyes open. If I continued to drive, I knew it wouldn't end well. I pulled into the last rest area in Indiana. I called my husband to tell him that I stopped and needed to take a nap. I didn't want to take a long nap, but I needed to sleep. He said he would call me in an hour. I got in the backseat, with my cell phone in hand, and went to sleep quickly. That hour flew by. I was back on the road at 11:30 pm. I was really thankful I stopped in Indiana. I was debating on whether to stop in Ohio. Ohio didn't have any rest stops available before I got off on the exit I needed. I don't think I would have felt comfortable sleeping on the side of the road with vehicles going 70-80 mph. I made the smart choice.
Once I was back on the road, I encountered toll booths. I thought people would be working in them. They weren't. We had to put money into a vending machine and the gate would lift up for us to drive through. Of course I got in the line that went slow. A person two cars ahead of me was having a hard time with the vending machine. I spent 15 minutes in line. I wasn't happy.
The rest of the drive home was smooth. Not too much traffic or police officers to worry about. When I passed into the Michigan border, I knew I would be home soon. I arrived home shortly before 1 am. Instead of going to bed, I stayed up and unpacked. After unpacking, I went and lied down on the couch waiting for my husband to come home from work. He came home around 2:30 am. We stayed up talking until 3:30 am. I had a great time running the Ragnar Relay, but it was nice just to be back home.
I started my drive around 4:15 p.m. I was hoping to be back at home around midnight. I knew I would make up some time on the interstate. The drive went well. Spent most of the time changing the radio stations. I guess I was too lazy to press the button to start the CD I had in the player. I heard Adele and Katy Perry a lot on the drive. It seemed like every time I turned to another radio station "Rolling In The Deep" was playing. Overkill.
I did get a chuckle seeing the Belvidere Tolloway Oasis. On the drive to Madison, I called my husband to let him know I stopped for gas. It just happened to be at the Belvidere Tolloway Oasis. The message I left for my husband was cute. I said that I stopped at Belvidere to get gas and I didn't see "any streaks on the china." Growing up my husband and I both watched Mr. Belvedere. The first line of the theme song is "Streaks on the china, never mattered before,
who cares." Yes. I'm a dork.
The drive was going smoothly until I hit Chicago. So many cars, not enough space equals backups. I was in Chicago traffic for a half hour or so. That put me a little behind schedule. Once I was out of it, I hammered down. Just going 7-8 mph over the posted speed limit.
The day started to turn into night. I stopped for gas somewhere in Indiana. I filled up my car, made a pit stop and I was back on the road. When the sky finally went dark, that is when I started yawning. I was singing, screaming, biting the inside of my mouth and tongue to stay awake. I wanted to get home. It finally came to the point where I knew I couldn't keep my eyes open. If I continued to drive, I knew it wouldn't end well. I pulled into the last rest area in Indiana. I called my husband to tell him that I stopped and needed to take a nap. I didn't want to take a long nap, but I needed to sleep. He said he would call me in an hour. I got in the backseat, with my cell phone in hand, and went to sleep quickly. That hour flew by. I was back on the road at 11:30 pm. I was really thankful I stopped in Indiana. I was debating on whether to stop in Ohio. Ohio didn't have any rest stops available before I got off on the exit I needed. I don't think I would have felt comfortable sleeping on the side of the road with vehicles going 70-80 mph. I made the smart choice.
Once I was back on the road, I encountered toll booths. I thought people would be working in them. They weren't. We had to put money into a vending machine and the gate would lift up for us to drive through. Of course I got in the line that went slow. A person two cars ahead of me was having a hard time with the vending machine. I spent 15 minutes in line. I wasn't happy.
The rest of the drive home was smooth. Not too much traffic or police officers to worry about. When I passed into the Michigan border, I knew I would be home soon. I arrived home shortly before 1 am. Instead of going to bed, I stayed up and unpacked. After unpacking, I went and lied down on the couch waiting for my husband to come home from work. He came home around 2:30 am. We stayed up talking until 3:30 am. I had a great time running the Ragnar Relay, but it was nice just to be back home.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Ragnar Relay Series
I packed up running clothes, food and water for the Ragnar Relay Series and drove to Madison, Wisconsin on Thursday. The trip to Wisconsin went smoothly. I only had to stop once during the seven hour drive to get gas. I filled up my car in Rockford, Illinois. At the start of the drive, I was a little nervous because that was the longest drive I have ever done by myself.I met up with my team, Mom & Dad, Thursday night. We met at one of our captain's apartment for a spaghetti dinner. We ate and talked about what the plan was for the relay. After dinner was over, Everyone parted and went home to get ready for the relay. I slept over and ended up going to bed around 9:30 p.m. CST, which was 10:30 p.m. in EST to me.
Woke up at 3 and 4 a.m., I went back to sleep until 5 a.m. I figured that was long enough, so I finally got up. Before getting dressed, I looked out the window. It was pouring rain. Not a good way to start out a 200 mile long relay. I got dressed and was thankful that I brought two pairs of running shoes with me.
The team members riding in van one assembled and then it was time to head to the start line. When we arrived at the park, it was a sea of white panel vans. The parking lot was filled with them. Over 300 teams were participating in the Madison to Chicago relay. Our first stop as a group was to the check in tent, then over to the safety meeting. After that was completed it was time to start the relay. At the start of the relay, the rain finally stopped, but it was a very chilly morning. Kimmy started off the relay and did a very good job. In no time, she was slapping the relay bracelet onto Justin's wrist.
I had butterflies while waiting for Justin. I knew once I ran my first leg, I would be OK. My first leg was 4.9 miles. This leg had many long inclines and hills. I kept a positive attitude and just kept running. I just told myself to keep my legs moving because my teammates were waiting for me. I finished my leg in 45 minutes and around 10 or 10:30 a.m. Once I was done, I freshened up as best as I could, changed my shirt and then our van headed to the next exchange.
My second leg started around 5 p.m. The leg was entirely on a trail. I was run straight for the whole run. The only turn I made was to run into the exchange zone to hand off the bracelet. I was very pleased with this leg. It was flat and I was able to go fast. It was my fastest of the entire relay. My pace was 8:40 for 5.9 miles. I passed a guy and two ladies during this leg. That made me feel really good. I finished the run in 51:11.
At the start of the third leg, it was misting and starting to get dark. This would be my first time really running in the dark, I started running around 8 p.m. I had on my reflective vest with LED lights and my headlamp. This leg was run on sidewalks and the road. I ran on the shoulder and it was scary. Cars were driving by me doing 55-60 mph. Most of them didn't even move over in the next lane to give me room. They just zoomed by me by less then two feet. Besides running next to fast traffic, this leg had more hills and inclines. I finished the 5.4 mile run in 50:38.
After my third leg for the day, our van was able to stop at one of the exchange points to take a shower. We were all happy to get clean. After showering, we stopped at McDonald's around midnight to get something to eat. For the entire day, I ate bananas and protein bars. It was nice to eat something different and warm. When we finished eating, some of us went to another exchange at a church to get a couple hours of sleep. I ended up sleeping on the floor with one of my coat's as a pillow for a nap of two hours. It wasn't enough, but it did help.
The start of my last leg was around 4 am. It was cold, foggy and misting. My leg was run on a trail. I was asked by my team if I wanted a bike pacer. I said yes. I just wanted someone there in case something happened on the trail. The trail was so dark. It was hard to see anything, even with my headlamp. After leaving the trail, my leg took me right next to Lake Michigan. You could hear the water moving in the wind. It sounded really nice. I finished the 6.1 mile in 57:44.
My part of the relay was complete. I had fun with my team members Kimmy, Justin, Adam, Susan and our van driver Nick. Running the Ragnar Relay Series was an experience I'll never forget.
Thursday, June 09, 2011
Ragnar Relay Series
Today is the day. I will be packing up my car and driving to Wisconsin. I will be traveling to Madison to meet up with my team, Mom & Dad, to participate in the Ragnar Relay Series. Today is mostly a driving day for me. It will take about seven hours to reach Madison from Michigan. I have driven all over the state of Michigan for work. I have never driven that far alone. I'm hoping for smooth traveling. When I get to Madison, I'll be meeting my team for dinner.
The relay race starts Friday morning in Madison and we will be running 200 miles to Chicago, Illinois. I will be running a total of four legs for 22.2 miles.
I'm ready to get this race started. My training has been going well. I have run two half marathons in two weeks and my weekly mileage has been in the low 90s. This experience will be fun and exciting.
Wednesday, June 08, 2011
Tuesday, June 07, 2011
Books read in 2011
The Laughing Corpse, Laurell K. Hamilton
Circus of the Damned, Laurell K. Hamilton
The Vampire Diaries: The Awakening and The Struggle, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: The Fury and Dark Reunion, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: The Return: Nightfall, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: Stefan's Diaries: Origins, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: Stefan's Diaries: Bloodlust, L.J. Smith
Ultramarathon Man: Confessions of an All-Night Runner, Dean Karnazes
The Kennedy Detail, Gerald Blaine with Lisa McCubbin
The Kennedy Assassination: 24 Hours After, Steven M Gillon
50/50: Secrets I Learned Running 50 Marathon in 50 Days, Dean Karnazes
The Brotherhood: A Precinct 11 Novel, Jerry B. Jenkins
127 Hours, Aron Ralston
JFK and the Unspeakable: Why He Died and Why It Matters, James W. Douglass
My Life on the Run, Bart Yasso
On the Trail of the JFK Assassins, Dick Russell
Run!: 26.2 Stories of Blisters and Bliss, Dean Karnazes
The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest, Steig Larsson
Second Wind: One Woman's Midlife Quest to Run Seven Marathons on Seven Continents, Cami Ostman
The Scarpetta Factor, Patricia Cornwell
Dual in the Sun: Alberto Salazar, Dick Beardsley and America's Greatest Marathon, John Brant
Born to Run, Christopher McDougall
Iron Heart, Brian Boyle
Running With Joy: My Daily Journey to the Marathon, Ryan Hall
Scarpetta, Patricia Cornwell
Predator, Patricia Cornwell
Port Mortuary, Patricia Cornwell
Relentless Forward Progress: A Guide to Running Ultramarathons, Ryan Powell & Eric Grossman
Running on Empty: An Ultramarathoner's Story of Love, Loss and a Record-Setting Run, Marshall Ulrich
Currently Reading: I'm Here to Win, Chris McCormack
Up Next: Book of the Dead, Patricia Cornwell
Circus of the Damned, Laurell K. Hamilton
The Vampire Diaries: The Awakening and The Struggle, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: The Fury and Dark Reunion, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: The Return: Nightfall, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: Stefan's Diaries: Origins, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: Stefan's Diaries: Bloodlust, L.J. Smith
Ultramarathon Man: Confessions of an All-Night Runner, Dean Karnazes
The Kennedy Detail, Gerald Blaine with Lisa McCubbin
The Kennedy Assassination: 24 Hours After, Steven M Gillon
50/50: Secrets I Learned Running 50 Marathon in 50 Days, Dean Karnazes
The Brotherhood: A Precinct 11 Novel, Jerry B. Jenkins
127 Hours, Aron Ralston
JFK and the Unspeakable: Why He Died and Why It Matters, James W. Douglass
My Life on the Run, Bart Yasso
On the Trail of the JFK Assassins, Dick Russell
Run!: 26.2 Stories of Blisters and Bliss, Dean Karnazes
The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest, Steig Larsson
Second Wind: One Woman's Midlife Quest to Run Seven Marathons on Seven Continents, Cami Ostman
The Scarpetta Factor, Patricia Cornwell
Dual in the Sun: Alberto Salazar, Dick Beardsley and America's Greatest Marathon, John Brant
Born to Run, Christopher McDougall
Iron Heart, Brian Boyle
Running With Joy: My Daily Journey to the Marathon, Ryan Hall
Scarpetta, Patricia Cornwell
Predator, Patricia Cornwell
Port Mortuary, Patricia Cornwell
Relentless Forward Progress: A Guide to Running Ultramarathons, Ryan Powell & Eric Grossman
Running on Empty: An Ultramarathoner's Story of Love, Loss and a Record-Setting Run, Marshall Ulrich
Currently Reading: I'm Here to Win, Chris McCormack
Up Next: Book of the Dead, Patricia Cornwell
Monday, June 06, 2011
Dexter-Ann Arbor Half Marathon
Another week, another half marathon.
I felt pretty good going into it. I waited until race time to decide what I was going to do. I didn't think the humidity was too high and it was very warm. I decided to try to give it my best.
The race started out well. I was running 9 minute and change miles, which is pretty good for me for longer races. After the experience of last week's water stops in Boston, I thought I would hit the last tables of the water stops. I was surprised when I saw that there was a total of two tables. It was another race of stopping and fighting others for cups of water or Gatorade. With it being really warm, I did get a drink at all of the water stops. During the middle of the race, it did cause some minor cramping. I slowed down my breathing and the cramps eventually went away.
After passing the 12 mile mark, I knew what was coming. I was told that the race ended on two hills. As we were going up the first hill, a woman next to me said "And so it begins." Yes, the hills. Someone ahead of me said, "Why couldn't we have had these hills at mile 2?" I tried not to slow down, but I did. I did my best running up the long hills. I'm still very thankful to have added hill workouts and trails into my running. It always comes in handy.
I finished in 2:02:36. That time was 1:23 better then the half marathon I ran in Boston on May 29. I was happy with my effort out on the very warm course today.
Chip time: 2:02:36
Overall Place: 1487/3133
Gender Place: 470/1457
Division Place: 92/275
Pace: 9:22
I felt pretty good going into it. I waited until race time to decide what I was going to do. I didn't think the humidity was too high and it was very warm. I decided to try to give it my best.
The race started out well. I was running 9 minute and change miles, which is pretty good for me for longer races. After the experience of last week's water stops in Boston, I thought I would hit the last tables of the water stops. I was surprised when I saw that there was a total of two tables. It was another race of stopping and fighting others for cups of water or Gatorade. With it being really warm, I did get a drink at all of the water stops. During the middle of the race, it did cause some minor cramping. I slowed down my breathing and the cramps eventually went away.
After passing the 12 mile mark, I knew what was coming. I was told that the race ended on two hills. As we were going up the first hill, a woman next to me said "And so it begins." Yes, the hills. Someone ahead of me said, "Why couldn't we have had these hills at mile 2?" I tried not to slow down, but I did. I did my best running up the long hills. I'm still very thankful to have added hill workouts and trails into my running. It always comes in handy.
I finished in 2:02:36. That time was 1:23 better then the half marathon I ran in Boston on May 29. I was happy with my effort out on the very warm course today.
Chip time: 2:02:36
Overall Place: 1487/3133
Gender Place: 470/1457
Division Place: 92/275
Pace: 9:22
Friday, June 03, 2011
Thursday, June 02, 2011
The Old Belfry lock - Lexington, MA
Lock on a fence around The Old Belfry in Lexington, MA. The belfry was rung on April 19, 1775 to warn the people of Lexington that the British were coming.
Wednesday, June 01, 2011
Trails
I joined my friends Eric, Pam, Josephine, Julie and Kendra early Monday morning to run trails. We started running at 6:30 a.m. We ran early so that everyone could celebrate Memorial Day with their families. With everyone covered from head-to-toe with mosquito repellent, we were off.I bought a CamelBak Octane 18X hydration pack while in Boston. I bought it to use when I run my ultras later this year. I wore it Monday while running the trails because I want to train with it. I will be carrying it with me for 5-7 hours, I need to prepare for that. Everyone was asking me about it. They asked if it was heavy: not really. They asked if it was hurting my back: it didn't. I really like the pack. It is easy to reach items in the pockets and I really love the water tube. I love how I can grab it, suck on the end of the PureFlow tube and get a drink. No bottles to open or lose trying to put it back on a belt.
The trails were really fun. Even though my legs were a little tired from Sunday's half marathon, I did as best as I could. During the run, I incorporated the run/walk method for the first time. Usually I try to run the entire time, but I decided to save my legs and walk up the bigger hills. Walking is something I know I will be doing during my ultras, might as well start practicing now. Walking up the hills really did help my legs. If I ran up all of those hills, I doubt that I would have ran 11 miles.
At the end of the run, Eric told me I did a great job on the trails. Especially with just running a half marathon the day before. He said it was good to run on tired legs to train for the ultras. I hope to hit the trails with the group again soon. It was fun to run with other people that are also training for upcoming ultras.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Boston's Run to Remember Half Marathon
Going into Boston's Run to Remember Half Marathon, my goal was just to have fun. Running in Boston would be a one-time deal for me. I love Boston, but traveling is pricey. Once you add up the hotel, travel expenses, food and any shopping done is quite a bit of money. My husband traveled with me and we had a fun weekend getaway.
Before the star of the half marathon Sunday, the race announcer said it was 60 something degrees with 89% humidity. He was reminding everyone to drink fluids and often. When the starting horn went off, I shuffled along the course with everyone else. For the first few miles, no mile markers where to be found. If they did have them out, I missed them. I was unsure as to how we I ran. I knew the first water station had to be somewhere nearby. I totally missed it. I was running on the left side of the course and the water stop was on the right side only. There was no way to cleanly make it over to the water stop without running into people. I missed it. I told myself another water stop would be two miles away.
I was ready for the second water stop. So was everyone else. I arrived at the first table and it was chaos. The glasses of water were not ready for the runners. The volunteers were pouring them as we arrived. It was like all of us were fighting each other just to get a drink. All of the water stops were like that. After the second water stop, I finally waited to grab a cup near the end. More cups of water were available because most of the runners were stopping at the first table.
I mentioned above that this half marathon was just for fun. But it is also nice to run well. At the half way point, I was at 64 minutes. I knew that my finishing time would be over two hours. I wanted to get it as close to two hours as I could. I increased my speed just a little. It was probably at when I finally knocked off some time. The rest of the race, I was just holding onto that.
Coming in towards the finish, we had to run over a bridge. It had an incline of course. The best thing about it was it was all downhill to the finish line. Nearing the finish line, completely drenched in sweat from head-to-toe, I gave it my all. I finished in 2:03:59. I was pleased with my performance. I ran a half marathon on a very humid and warm day in Boston. Until Monday, Michigan hasn't had that type of weather. I enjoyed running the streets of Boston. It is something I'll never forget.
Place: 2225/5236
Division: 353/1068
Net time: 2:03:59
Pace: 9:28
Before the star of the half marathon Sunday, the race announcer said it was 60 something degrees with 89% humidity. He was reminding everyone to drink fluids and often. When the starting horn went off, I shuffled along the course with everyone else. For the first few miles, no mile markers where to be found. If they did have them out, I missed them. I was unsure as to how we I ran. I knew the first water station had to be somewhere nearby. I totally missed it. I was running on the left side of the course and the water stop was on the right side only. There was no way to cleanly make it over to the water stop without running into people. I missed it. I told myself another water stop would be two miles away.
I was ready for the second water stop. So was everyone else. I arrived at the first table and it was chaos. The glasses of water were not ready for the runners. The volunteers were pouring them as we arrived. It was like all of us were fighting each other just to get a drink. All of the water stops were like that. After the second water stop, I finally waited to grab a cup near the end. More cups of water were available because most of the runners were stopping at the first table.
I mentioned above that this half marathon was just for fun. But it is also nice to run well. At the half way point, I was at 64 minutes. I knew that my finishing time would be over two hours. I wanted to get it as close to two hours as I could. I increased my speed just a little. It was probably at when I finally knocked off some time. The rest of the race, I was just holding onto that.
Coming in towards the finish, we had to run over a bridge. It had an incline of course. The best thing about it was it was all downhill to the finish line. Nearing the finish line, completely drenched in sweat from head-to-toe, I gave it my all. I finished in 2:03:59. I was pleased with my performance. I ran a half marathon on a very humid and warm day in Boston. Until Monday, Michigan hasn't had that type of weather. I enjoyed running the streets of Boston. It is something I'll never forget.
Place: 2225/5236
Division: 353/1068
Net time: 2:03:59
Pace: 9:28
Monday, May 30, 2011
Books read in 2011
Usually when I'm on vacation, I buy books. This trip was no different. Made a stop at a couple of book stores and I found a few books to read. I bought Relentless Forward Progress: A Guide to Running Ultramarathons by Bryon Powell and Eric Grossman and Running on Empty: An Ultramarathoner's Story of Love, Loss and a Record-Setting Run by Marshall Ulrich. I read Bryon Powell's book in a day. I really enjoyed it. So many tips how to train for an ultra, training plans and a couple of essays written by ultramarathon runners. Today I will be starting Marshall Ulrich's book. I've heard it is a good book. It should probably take me a day or two to read it.
The Laughing Corpse, Laurell K. Hamilton
Circus of the Damned, Laurell K. Hamilton
The Vampire Diaries: The Awakening and The Struggle, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: The Fury and Dark Reunion, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: The Return: Nightfall, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: Stefan's Diaries: Origins, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: Stefan's Diaries: Bloodlust, L.J. Smith
Ultramarathon Man: Confessions of an All-Night Runner, Dean Karnazes
The Kennedy Detail, Gerald Blaine with Lisa McCubbin
The Kennedy Assassination: 24 Hours After, Steven M Gillon
50/50: Secrets I Learned Running 50 Marathon in 50 Days, Dean Karnazes
The Brotherhood: A Precinct 11 Novel, Jerry B. Jenkins
127 Hours, Aron Ralston
JFK and the Unspeakable: Why He Died and Why It Matters, James W. Douglass
My Life on the Run, Bart Yasso
On the Trail of the JFK Assassins, Dick Russell
Run!: 26.2 Stories of Blisters and Bliss, Dean Karnazes
The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest, Steig Larsson
Second Wind: One Woman's Midlife Quest to Run Seven Marathons on Seven Continents, Cami Ostman
The Scarpetta Factor, Patricia Cornwell
Dual in the Sun: Alberto Salazar, Dick Beardsley and America's Greatest Marathon, John Brant
Born to Run, Christopher McDougall
Iron Heart, Brian Boyle
Running With Joy: My Daily Journey to the Marathon, Ryan Hall
Scarpetta, Patricia Cornwell
Predator, Patricia Cornwell
Port Mortuary, Patricia Cornwell
Relentless Forward Progress: A Guide to Running Ultramarathons, Ryan Powell & Eric Grossman
Currently Reading: Running on Empty: An Ultramarathoner's Story of Love, Loss and a Record-Setting Run, Marshall Ulrich
Up Next: Book of the Dead, Patricia Cornwell
The Laughing Corpse, Laurell K. Hamilton
Circus of the Damned, Laurell K. Hamilton
The Vampire Diaries: The Awakening and The Struggle, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: The Fury and Dark Reunion, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: The Return: Nightfall, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: Stefan's Diaries: Origins, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: Stefan's Diaries: Bloodlust, L.J. Smith
Ultramarathon Man: Confessions of an All-Night Runner, Dean Karnazes
The Kennedy Detail, Gerald Blaine with Lisa McCubbin
The Kennedy Assassination: 24 Hours After, Steven M Gillon
50/50: Secrets I Learned Running 50 Marathon in 50 Days, Dean Karnazes
The Brotherhood: A Precinct 11 Novel, Jerry B. Jenkins
127 Hours, Aron Ralston
JFK and the Unspeakable: Why He Died and Why It Matters, James W. Douglass
My Life on the Run, Bart Yasso
On the Trail of the JFK Assassins, Dick Russell
Run!: 26.2 Stories of Blisters and Bliss, Dean Karnazes
The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest, Steig Larsson
Second Wind: One Woman's Midlife Quest to Run Seven Marathons on Seven Continents, Cami Ostman
The Scarpetta Factor, Patricia Cornwell
Dual in the Sun: Alberto Salazar, Dick Beardsley and America's Greatest Marathon, John Brant
Born to Run, Christopher McDougall
Iron Heart, Brian Boyle
Running With Joy: My Daily Journey to the Marathon, Ryan Hall
Scarpetta, Patricia Cornwell
Predator, Patricia Cornwell
Port Mortuary, Patricia Cornwell
Relentless Forward Progress: A Guide to Running Ultramarathons, Ryan Powell & Eric Grossman
Currently Reading: Running on Empty: An Ultramarathoner's Story of Love, Loss and a Record-Setting Run, Marshall Ulrich
Up Next: Book of the Dead, Patricia Cornwell
Friday, May 27, 2011
Boston
My husband and I flew to Boston Thursday. We are in Boston because I'm running a half marathon Sunday.
My plan for the half marathon is just to have fun. If I run well, great. If I have a so-so day, that is fine too. I know that running a half marathon in Boston is probably just a one-time deal for me. Traveling to races, especially flying, is a bit pricey. I'm just going to soak up the sun and have a great time doing it.
My plan for the half marathon is just to have fun. If I run well, great. If I have a so-so day, that is fine too. I know that running a half marathon in Boston is probably just a one-time deal for me. Traveling to races, especially flying, is a bit pricey. I'm just going to soak up the sun and have a great time doing it.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Books read in 2011
The Laughing Corpse, Laurell K. Hamilton
Circus of the Damned, Laurell K. Hamilton
The Vampire Diaries: The Awakening and The Struggle, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: The Fury and Dark Reunion, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: The Return: Nightfall, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: Stefan's Diaries: Origins, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: Stefan's Diaries: Bloodlust, L.J. Smith
Ultramarathon Man: Confessions of an All-Night Runner, Dean Karnazes
The Kennedy Detail, Gerald Blaine with Lisa McCubbin
The Kennedy Assassination: 24 Hours After, Steven M Gillon
50/50: Secrets I Learned Running 50 Marathon in 50 Days, Dean Karnazes
The Brotherhood: A Precinct 11 Novel, Jerry B. Jenkins
127 Hours, Aron Ralston
JFK and the Unspeakable: Why He Died and Why It Matters, James W. Douglass
My Life on the Run, Bart Yasso
On the Trail of the JFK Assassins, Dick Russell
Run!: 26.2 Stories of Blisters and Bliss, Dean Karnazes
The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest, Steig Larsson
Second Wind: One Woman's Midlife Quest to Run Seven Marathons on Seven Continents, Cami Ostman
The Scarpetta Factor, Patricia Cornwell
Dual in the Sun: Alberto Salazar, Dick Beardsley and America's Greatest Marathon, John Brant
Born to Run, Christopher McDougall
Iron Heart, Brian Boyle
Running With Joy: My Daily Journey to the Marathon, Ryan Hall
Scarpetta, Patricia Cornwell
Predator, Patricia Cornwell
Port Mortuary, Patricia Cornwell
Currently Reading: Book of the Dead, Patricia Cornwell
Up Next: The Vampire Diaries: The Return: Midnight, L.J. Smith
Circus of the Damned, Laurell K. Hamilton
The Vampire Diaries: The Awakening and The Struggle, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: The Fury and Dark Reunion, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: The Return: Nightfall, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: Stefan's Diaries: Origins, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: Stefan's Diaries: Bloodlust, L.J. Smith
Ultramarathon Man: Confessions of an All-Night Runner, Dean Karnazes
The Kennedy Detail, Gerald Blaine with Lisa McCubbin
The Kennedy Assassination: 24 Hours After, Steven M Gillon
50/50: Secrets I Learned Running 50 Marathon in 50 Days, Dean Karnazes
The Brotherhood: A Precinct 11 Novel, Jerry B. Jenkins
127 Hours, Aron Ralston
JFK and the Unspeakable: Why He Died and Why It Matters, James W. Douglass
My Life on the Run, Bart Yasso
On the Trail of the JFK Assassins, Dick Russell
Run!: 26.2 Stories of Blisters and Bliss, Dean Karnazes
The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest, Steig Larsson
Second Wind: One Woman's Midlife Quest to Run Seven Marathons on Seven Continents, Cami Ostman
The Scarpetta Factor, Patricia Cornwell
Dual in the Sun: Alberto Salazar, Dick Beardsley and America's Greatest Marathon, John Brant
Born to Run, Christopher McDougall
Iron Heart, Brian Boyle
Running With Joy: My Daily Journey to the Marathon, Ryan Hall
Scarpetta, Patricia Cornwell
Predator, Patricia Cornwell
Port Mortuary, Patricia Cornwell
Currently Reading: Book of the Dead, Patricia Cornwell
Up Next: The Vampire Diaries: The Return: Midnight, L.J. Smith
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Ironman
Over the weekend, many people participated in the Memorial Hermann Ironman Texas. I enjoyed reading the tweets from people that had friends participating. The athletes had a 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike ride and 26.2 mile run.I asked someone on twitter how far they had to go in each discipline. I was given the answer, then another person that I talk to on twitter told me to "back away from the Ironman." I thought that was funny. I have never had an ambition to ever do a triathlon. I can swim, but not very fast. The only time I go swimming now since I'm adult is when my husband and I are on getaway vacation. Which is once a year. I have a bike that is at least 15 years old and I haven't rode in two years. I got my bike out over the weekend and went for a ride. The ride turned out to be really short. There was something wrong with the chain. I took it to the local bicycle store to get fixed. While I was at the bike store, I saw beautiful Trek bike that I would have loved to have. It only cost $1000. And of course, I can run.
I'm in the process of turning myself into an ultra runner. All of my free time is spent on running. I replied to the two ladies I was chatting with on twitter that I have no plans to do an Ironman. That ultra running is enough for me. One of the ladies said, "Never say never." That is so true. I said a couple of years ago that I would never run a marathon. I still haven't run a marathon, but I will be running two ultra marathons this fall. Who knows maybe when I have my fill of ultras, I can start training for an Ironman 70.3 (1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike and 13.1 mile run). But right now my one true love, besides my husband, is running and I have a feeling it will be for a long time.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Tour of California
I've always enjoyed watching sports on TV. It really doesn't matter what it is. I like to watch any type of running (road, cross country, marathon and track), triathlons and cycling.On the Versus channel last week was the Tour of California. I recorded the last few stages of the race to watch. Stage 7 was really interesting to watch. This stage involved huge climbs up to Mount Baldy, which has an elevation of 7,930 feet. The entire 75.8 mile course had the cyclists climbing more then 15,000 feet. I bet they were so happy when the stage was complete. The cyclists were trying so hard, but the huge inclines were getting to them. Two RadioShack teammates, Levi Leipheimer and Chris Horner of the USA, worked together to finish first and second.
I noticed something during the race that made me shake my head and laugh. The spectators at cycle races are crazy. If I was riding in these events, I would want to stay far away from them. Spectators run next to the cyclists. I think most of them just want to be on TV, but maybe they are cheering the riders on. Besides running beside them, some of them dress up in costumes. I got a huge laugh at the people who wore a Pope outfit, a Richard Nixon mask while wearing only a Speedo and the two guys wearing sumo wrestler outfits.
The cyclists that compete in any stage bicycle races are amazing athletes. They ride for hours everyday, make huge climbs and endure time trials. What can be said about them. I'm just in awe of them.
Monday, May 23, 2011
Future races
It is never too early to start thinking about next year's running season. Well at least the longer races. I will be running plenty of short races (5Ks, 10Ks, 5 mile trail) around the county in 2012. No need to plan for them. These are a couple of races that I would like to do. I don't know if I will run them or not. Like I said, just something to start thinking about.I would like to run the Caumsett State Park 50K in New York on March 4, 2012. This 50K is also the 2012 USA 50K Championship for the USATF. I am a member of the USATF this year. I plan to renew my membership in 2012 also. According to the Caumsett State Park website, the course is a measured 5K loop on a paved path with two small inclines. The path runs through the historic Caumsett Park with stunning views of the Long Island Sound. That sounds really pleasant.
I'm interested in running the Mad City 100K. A 100K is 62.137 miles. This past April, the Mad City 100K Road Race served as the USA 100K Championships for the USATF. The 100K race is 10 laps of a 10K loop that takes runners by the shore of Lake Wingra, some scenic neighborhoods and through the University of Wisconsin Arboretum.
I'm planning on the Glass City Marathon in Toledo, Ohio to be my first marathon. The marathon will take place on April 22, 2012. I ran the half marathon this year and set a new PR. The course was nice and flat. That is just how I like them.
This September, I'm running the Run Woodstock trail half marathon. I hope next year to step it up to the 50K or 50 mile trail run.
In October, Tussey Mt. Ski Area in Boalsburg, PA hosts the USA 50 Mile Championship. It is a 50-mile single loop on mostly unpaved roads in the Rothrock State Forest. The terrain includes uphill, level and downhill grades.
Friday, May 20, 2011
Weekend plans
I was so busy last weekend. A couple of long drives in the car, a 25K race and my sister's bridal shower. This weekend is very different from last week. I have nothing big or exciting planned for this weekend. This weekend will be nice and relaxing. My plans include running, cleaning my house, going to the grocery store and church. It is nice to have a busy and fun weekend once and a while. But I'm glad it is not every weekend. It would definitely wear me out. I'm looking forward to a nice and quiet weekend.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Boston
My husband and I will be heading back to Boston, MA next week. We will be there for a long weekend. I will be running a half marathon next Sunday.
We will arrive in Boston a few days prior to the race. Our plans so far are to visit Lexington and Concord. When we visited Boston back in 2009, we did go to these locations. But we were disappointed. We rode a bus to get there and a trolley took us to Lexington and Concord. We really didn't see much because we had to be on the trolley schedule. And we had to be on the trolley. They were are ride back to the bus stop. This time around, we are renting a car. With the car, we will be able to take our time and actually see things.
Besides visiting Lexington and Concord, we are unsure of what else to do. I suggested to my husband that we visit the Museum of Fine Arts the day we land. They have a photography exhibit by Lee Friedlander that I would like to see and we always go to museums on our trips. I guess that is the art major in me. Besides the museum, we will need to find something else to do that day. We land pretty early in the morning.
When we were in Boston before in 2009, we visited most of the tourist attractions. We would like to find something else to do or see. If you have any suggestions, please leave a comment.
We will arrive in Boston a few days prior to the race. Our plans so far are to visit Lexington and Concord. When we visited Boston back in 2009, we did go to these locations. But we were disappointed. We rode a bus to get there and a trolley took us to Lexington and Concord. We really didn't see much because we had to be on the trolley schedule. And we had to be on the trolley. They were are ride back to the bus stop. This time around, we are renting a car. With the car, we will be able to take our time and actually see things.
Besides visiting Lexington and Concord, we are unsure of what else to do. I suggested to my husband that we visit the Museum of Fine Arts the day we land. They have a photography exhibit by Lee Friedlander that I would like to see and we always go to museums on our trips. I guess that is the art major in me. Besides the museum, we will need to find something else to do that day. We land pretty early in the morning.
When we were in Boston before in 2009, we visited most of the tourist attractions. We would like to find something else to do or see. If you have any suggestions, please leave a comment.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Axed
Four out of the five new TV shows that I watched this season have been canceled. The TV shows not coming back for a second season are The Good Guys, The Chicago Code, Detroit 1-8-7 and Mr. Sunshine. My husband and I liked all of these shows and were disappointed when we heard that they were axed. The only new show that my husband and I both watch that didn't get canceled was Blue Bloods.
When the new TV season starts, I don't think I'll watch any new TV shows. It is better not to watch them, then get disappointed when the networks get rid of them after a couple of episodes.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Monday, May 16, 2011
USA 25K Open Championships
I ran in the USA 25K Open Championships Saturday. The USATF championship was part of the Fifth Third River Bank Run. The Fifth Third River Bank Run the largest 25K road race in the United States.The day of the race, it was cold and raining. Doing a warm up run to the staging area, I got all wet by the rain. The rain was coming down so much, it drenched my waterproof jacket. After the jacket was wet, it really didn't keep me warm. Before the race started, I couldn't stay warm. My teeth were chattering and it had me wondering if I could finish the race. By then, it was time to line up and start the race.
At the start of the race, I stayed with the 9 minute mile pacers. It felt good to run at that speed and I was keeping up with them. The course was packed. I heard runners around me saying that it was worse this year. So many more runners participating in the 25K. For the first 6 miles, everyone was bumping into everyone and stepping on the back of everyone's feet. I have to agree that it was crowded.
The water stops were disasters. So many people crowding in to get water, Gatorade. I got what I needed, but not without nailing someone else in the process. I hung with the pacer group until mile 7. It was a water stop that separated us. I moved over to the left of the trail to get something to drink. When I did that other runners got behind the pacers. It got so crowded behind them and I couldn't catch up and get closer. When I couldn't catch up, I could feel myself slowing down. I tried to pick myself up, but I couldn't do it. I continued at the slower pace for a couple of more miles.
When I passed the 10 mile mark, I felt better and picked up my pace. I even started passing a couple of people. Around this time, it was only sprinkling and starting to warm up. Everything I was wearing was soaked. I told myself I only had five more miles and I have run that plenty of times. It was time to go.
I crossed mile 13 right around two hours. I was OK with that. I wasn't too far behind of where I wanted to be. My goal time for the race was to finish between 2:20-2:25. I felt if I kept up my pace I was going to make my goal. The finish was on a slight incline and I surged up it. I crossed the line in 2:24:30. I finished within my goal. I was pleased with my first effort for a distance longer then a half marathon.
I will probably run this race again next year. I hope I will be able to hold my pace better and top this time.
Friday, May 13, 2011
Weekend
I can't believe how busy this weekend will be for me. I'll be driving two hours west of my house Friday afternoon to run in the Fifth Third River Bank Run. I will be running the 25K Saturday morning. As a member of the USATF, I will be running in the USA 25K Open Championships. The USATF members who win and finish near the top will be able to represent the United States in international competition. I know that won't be me. I just want to have fun and run well. This race will be my first one over the half marathon distance.After the race, I will be driving back home. Once I get home, my husband and I have to go shopping for my nephew's birthday. Later that evening is his birthday party and we need to find him a present.
I will have another busy day on Sunday. Sunday afternoon is my sister's bridal shower. I will be riding to the shower with my Mom and sisters. The shower is about 45 minutes away, so that means another car ride.
Thursday, May 12, 2011
Books read in 2011
The Laughing Corpse, Laurell K. Hamilton
Circus of the Damned, Laurell K. Hamilton
The Vampire Diaries: The Awakening and The Struggle, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: The Fury and Dark Reunion, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: The Return: Nightfall, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: Stefan's Diaries: Origins, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: Stefan's Diaries: Bloodlust, L.J. Smith
Ultramarathon Man: Confessions of an All-Night Runner, Dean Karnazes
The Kennedy Detail, Gerald Blaine with Lisa McCubbin
The Kennedy Assassination: 24 Hours After, Steven M Gillon
50/50: Secrets I Learned Running 50 Marathon in 50 Days, Dean Karnazes
The Brotherhood: A Precinct 11 Novel, Jerry B. Jenkins
127 Hours, Aron Ralston
JFK and the Unspeakable: Why He Died and Why It Matters, James W. Douglass
My Life on the Run, Bart Yasso
On the Trail of the JFK Assassins, Dick Russell
Run!: 26.2 Stories of Blisters and Bliss, Dean Karnazes
The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest, Steig Larsson
Second Wind: One Woman's Midlife Quest to Run Seven Marathons on Seven Continents, Cami Ostman
The Scarpetta Factor, Patricia Cornwell
Dual in the Sun: Alberto Salazar, Dick Beardsley and America's Greatest Marathon, John Brant
Born to Run, Christopher McDougall
Iron Heart, Brian Boyle
Running With Joy: My Daily Journey to the Marathon, Ryan Hall
Scarpetta, Patricia Cornwell
Predator, Patricia Cornwell
Currently Reading: Port Mortuary, Patricia Cornwell
Up Next: Book of the Dead, Patricia Cornwell
Circus of the Damned, Laurell K. Hamilton
The Vampire Diaries: The Awakening and The Struggle, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: The Fury and Dark Reunion, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: The Return: Nightfall, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: Stefan's Diaries: Origins, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: Stefan's Diaries: Bloodlust, L.J. Smith
Ultramarathon Man: Confessions of an All-Night Runner, Dean Karnazes
The Kennedy Detail, Gerald Blaine with Lisa McCubbin
The Kennedy Assassination: 24 Hours After, Steven M Gillon
50/50: Secrets I Learned Running 50 Marathon in 50 Days, Dean Karnazes
The Brotherhood: A Precinct 11 Novel, Jerry B. Jenkins
127 Hours, Aron Ralston
JFK and the Unspeakable: Why He Died and Why It Matters, James W. Douglass
My Life on the Run, Bart Yasso
On the Trail of the JFK Assassins, Dick Russell
Run!: 26.2 Stories of Blisters and Bliss, Dean Karnazes
The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest, Steig Larsson
Second Wind: One Woman's Midlife Quest to Run Seven Marathons on Seven Continents, Cami Ostman
The Scarpetta Factor, Patricia Cornwell
Dual in the Sun: Alberto Salazar, Dick Beardsley and America's Greatest Marathon, John Brant
Born to Run, Christopher McDougall
Iron Heart, Brian Boyle
Running With Joy: My Daily Journey to the Marathon, Ryan Hall
Scarpetta, Patricia Cornwell
Predator, Patricia Cornwell
Currently Reading: Port Mortuary, Patricia Cornwell
Up Next: Book of the Dead, Patricia Cornwell
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Half Fanatics
When I still planned on running the Run Woodstock trail marathon, I thought I would have a change to join the Marathon Maniacs. I would have met the criteria to join. I would have run a trail marathon and two ultra marathons in the span of six weeks. I could have joined at the bronze level of two marathons within a 16 day time frame and three marathons within a 90 day time frame. But it is not meant to be this year. Following the advice of the friend that is running my first ultra marathon with me, he suggested switching to the half marathon.
I looked up the Half Fanatics website because I'm running a bunch of half marathons this year. I believe I meet the criteria for the Neptune status. I don't know if my 25K that I'm running this week will count, so I'm skipping it in the count. I will be running a half marathon in Boston on May 29, a half marathon in Ann Arbor on June 5 and a half marathon in Pinckney on September 9. The criteria for Neptune is two half marathons with a 16 day time frame. I'm running two half's on back-to-back weekends. The second is three half marathons within a 90 day time frame (Boston, AA and Pinckney).
It will be exciting to join this group. Hopefully I'll be able to meet some fanatics at some local races.
I looked up the Half Fanatics website because I'm running a bunch of half marathons this year. I believe I meet the criteria for the Neptune status. I don't know if my 25K that I'm running this week will count, so I'm skipping it in the count. I will be running a half marathon in Boston on May 29, a half marathon in Ann Arbor on June 5 and a half marathon in Pinckney on September 9. The criteria for Neptune is two half marathons with a 16 day time frame. I'm running two half's on back-to-back weekends. The second is three half marathons within a 90 day time frame (Boston, AA and Pinckney).
It will be exciting to join this group. Hopefully I'll be able to meet some fanatics at some local races.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
I guess that decision wasn't final
I made my decision on Friday to run the Run Woodstock! Trail Marathon. Over the weekend, I talked to my friend that will be running Dances with Dirt 50K with me. I asked him which race would be better to run as a training run for DWD, the half marathon or the marathon? He told me that I should go with the half marathon. The reason for running the half marathon is that parts of the race are run on the DWD course and he said my legs would be fresh after the half. Since he is running DWD with me, I am going to follow his advice.I will be registering for the Run Woodstock Hippie Half Trail Marathon on September 10. I guess The Glass City Marathon in 2012 will be my first marathon after all.
Monday, May 09, 2011
Panther Road Race
I ran a 5K on Saturday morning. Going into the race, I just wanted to take it easy. I knew I wouldn't be trying to run a PR. I have never run the course before, but it was a nice one. The course was a hilly country block. We ran on pavement and dirt roads.
At the start of the 5K, I was surrounded by women that were in my age group. We mostly all ran together for the first half mile. Leading up to the mile was the first hill. That is where I dropped them. It was nice to be out front of them. They were no longer running right next to me. My first mile time was 8:15. The second mile was just like the first. We were off of the pavement running on dirt. I stayed in the middle of the road to avoid potholes that could twist my ankles. Mile two also had a hill. Still no one around me, I charged up the hill. After running up the hill, we turned a corner and had a slight downhill run onto pavement. It felt really good to be running downhill. I passed the second mile mark in 16:30.
The last mile didn't have any downhills. It was basically a steady incline leading up to the finish line. I didn't look at my watch, but I could tell I was slowing down. I told myself to get going and catch the father and daughter running ahead of me. I started to catch them within a half mile to go. I think the incline was getting to her. At this point I was really thankful that I included hill intervals into my weekly runs. It was really coming in handy during this race. When we turned the corner into the parking lot leading to the finish line, I picked up my pace. I was running hard, but I failed to catch the girl. Yes, a 10 year old girl. She beat me by 14 seconds.
I finished the 5K in 26:23 with a pace of 8:29 a mile. I was happy with my finish. I didn't catch the 10 year old girl, but I did run well on the hills and finished strong. I finished the race as the fifth overall female and first in my age group. Not bad for a run on hilly country roads.
At the start of the 5K, I was surrounded by women that were in my age group. We mostly all ran together for the first half mile. Leading up to the mile was the first hill. That is where I dropped them. It was nice to be out front of them. They were no longer running right next to me. My first mile time was 8:15. The second mile was just like the first. We were off of the pavement running on dirt. I stayed in the middle of the road to avoid potholes that could twist my ankles. Mile two also had a hill. Still no one around me, I charged up the hill. After running up the hill, we turned a corner and had a slight downhill run onto pavement. It felt really good to be running downhill. I passed the second mile mark in 16:30.
The last mile didn't have any downhills. It was basically a steady incline leading up to the finish line. I didn't look at my watch, but I could tell I was slowing down. I told myself to get going and catch the father and daughter running ahead of me. I started to catch them within a half mile to go. I think the incline was getting to her. At this point I was really thankful that I included hill intervals into my weekly runs. It was really coming in handy during this race. When we turned the corner into the parking lot leading to the finish line, I picked up my pace. I was running hard, but I failed to catch the girl. Yes, a 10 year old girl. She beat me by 14 seconds.
I finished the 5K in 26:23 with a pace of 8:29 a mile. I was happy with my finish. I didn't catch the 10 year old girl, but I did run well on the hills and finished strong. I finished the race as the fifth overall female and first in my age group. Not bad for a run on hilly country roads.
Friday, May 06, 2011
Decision
I decided I'm going to register for the Run Woodstock! trail marathon on September 10. It will be my first marathon ever. This marathon will be my training run for trail 50K that I will be running two weeks after the marathon. I don't plan on running this marathon too fast. I just want to get through it without any problems and get a feel for the trails.
I really didn't expect to be running a marathon this year. My plan was to have The Glass City Marathon in Toledo, Ohio be my first ever. Well it will be my first, my first road marathon.
I really didn't expect to be running a marathon this year. My plan was to have The Glass City Marathon in Toledo, Ohio be my first ever. Well it will be my first, my first road marathon.
Thursday, May 05, 2011
Clean
A couple of weeks ago, I was pulling out from a parking spot that was near a concrete island. I don't know the real name of it, but the island is an area for plants and a light pole. I thought I pulled out enough to get around it. How wrong I was. I hear a loud noise and then heard something fall to the ground. I parked my car and got out. I saw the damage. The concrete lip of the island ripped off trim that ran along the bottom of the passenger side of my car. I was not happy. I picked up the trim, put it in my car and drove home.
I wasn't going to fix it. That was until I opened my passenger side door. When the trim was pulled off the car by the concrete, it pulled up my right front fender. When I opened the door, the door rubbed on my fender. Not good.
I waited until I received our tax return before making an appointment at the body shop. I took my car there last week and had it looked at. The body shop guy gave me an estimate. I wasn't surprised at the price. It was what I was expecting. My tax refund paid for it. He asked me if insurance was paying for it. I told him I was. He was surprised. I said it was my fault because of my stupidity and I would pay for it. He asked if I was sure. Yes. I was. I later found out from my husband that our insurance wouldn't even covered it.
I dropped off my car earlier this week and received a loaner car. The loaner car was the same car as mine just four years newer. I loved that car. It had great pickup and different options then what I have in my car. I really liked the radio buttons that were on the steering wheel.
A day later, I dropped off the loaner and picked up my car. The body shop did a fabulous job with my car. When I sat in the drivers seat, it was all the way back. My feet didn't even touch the pedals. The seat was also really low. It took about five minutes to change all the mirrors and get my seat back to where I had it. I noticed something else was different about my car. It took a couple of seconds, but I figured out what it was. The body shop guys dusted the inside of my car. I've owned my car for six years and never dusted. It looks like a brand new car. It was awesome. They also vacuumed my car out too. I need to go to the body shop more often. (Not really). They really know how to clean. This morning on my way to work I noticed something else. They cleaned the inside of my windshield! I was blown away. I've been wanted to clean it forever. Now it is done and it is crystal clean.
As you can tell, I'm very satisfied with the job that they did on my car.
I wasn't going to fix it. That was until I opened my passenger side door. When the trim was pulled off the car by the concrete, it pulled up my right front fender. When I opened the door, the door rubbed on my fender. Not good.
I waited until I received our tax return before making an appointment at the body shop. I took my car there last week and had it looked at. The body shop guy gave me an estimate. I wasn't surprised at the price. It was what I was expecting. My tax refund paid for it. He asked me if insurance was paying for it. I told him I was. He was surprised. I said it was my fault because of my stupidity and I would pay for it. He asked if I was sure. Yes. I was. I later found out from my husband that our insurance wouldn't even covered it.
I dropped off my car earlier this week and received a loaner car. The loaner car was the same car as mine just four years newer. I loved that car. It had great pickup and different options then what I have in my car. I really liked the radio buttons that were on the steering wheel.
A day later, I dropped off the loaner and picked up my car. The body shop did a fabulous job with my car. When I sat in the drivers seat, it was all the way back. My feet didn't even touch the pedals. The seat was also really low. It took about five minutes to change all the mirrors and get my seat back to where I had it. I noticed something else was different about my car. It took a couple of seconds, but I figured out what it was. The body shop guys dusted the inside of my car. I've owned my car for six years and never dusted. It looks like a brand new car. It was awesome. They also vacuumed my car out too. I need to go to the body shop more often. (Not really). They really know how to clean. This morning on my way to work I noticed something else. They cleaned the inside of my windshield! I was blown away. I've been wanted to clean it forever. Now it is done and it is crystal clean.
As you can tell, I'm very satisfied with the job that they did on my car.
Wednesday, May 04, 2011
Training run
I just thought about this the 
other day. I think I know which way I'm going to go with it too. I will be running my first ultra (50K) at Dances With Dirt in Hell, Michigan on September 24. DWD is a trail run and I need to prepare for it.
Two weeks before DWD is a Run Woodstock! Run Woodstock! is many races held in one weekend. It also takes place in the same area as DWD. They offer a 100M/100K, 50M/50K, marathon, half marathon, 5 mile, 10K and 5K races over the course of three days. I was thinking of running the marathon or half marathon as a training run for Dances With Dirt. I am currently leaning towards the marathon. If I can finish the marathon, I know I will be able to run another five miles.
My decision about which race I'm going to run should be made by the
end of this week.
other day. I think I know which way I'm going to go with it too. I will be running my first ultra (50K) at Dances With Dirt in Hell, Michigan on September 24. DWD is a trail run and I need to prepare for it.Two weeks before DWD is a Run Woodstock! Run Woodstock! is many races held in one weekend. It also takes place in the same area as DWD. They offer a 100M/100K, 50M/50K, marathon, half marathon, 5 mile, 10K and 5K races over the course of three days. I was thinking of running the marathon or half marathon as a training run for Dances With Dirt. I am currently leaning towards the marathon. If I can finish the marathon, I know I will be able to run another five miles.
My decision about which race I'm going to run should be made by the
end of this week.
Tuesday, May 03, 2011
Books read in 2011
The Laughing Corpse, Laurell K. Hamilton
Circus of the Damned, Laurell K. Hamilton
The Vampire Diaries: The Awakening and The Struggle, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: The Fury and Dark Reunion, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: The Return: Nightfall, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: Stefan's Diaries: Origins, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: Stefan's Diaries: Bloodlust, L.J. Smith
Ultramarathon Man: Confessions of an All-Night Runner, Dean Karnazes
The Kennedy Detail, Gerald Blaine with Lisa McCubbin
The Kennedy Assassination: 24 Hours After, Steven M Gillon
50/50: Secrets I Learned Running 50 Marathon in 50 Days, Dean Karnazes
The Brotherhood: A Precinct 11 Novel, Jerry B. Jenkins
127 Hours, Aron Ralston
JFK and the Unspeakable: Why He Died and Why It Matters, James W. Douglass
My Life on the Run, Bart Yasso
On the Trail of the JFK Assassins, Dick Russell
Run!: 26.2 Stories of Blisters and Bliss, Dean Karnazes
The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest, Steig Larsson
Second Wind: One Woman's Midlife Quest to Run Seven Marathons on Seven Continents, Cami Ostman
The Scarpetta Factor, Patricia Cornwell
Dual in the Sun: Alberto Salazar, Dick Beardsley and America's Greatest Marathon, John Brant
Born to Run, Christopher McDougall
Iron Heart, Brian Boyle
Running With Joy: My Daily Journey to the Marathon, Ryan Hall
Scarpetta, Patricia Cornwell
Currently Reading: Predator, Patrica Cornwell
Up Next: Port Mortuary, Patrica Cornwell
Circus of the Damned, Laurell K. Hamilton
The Vampire Diaries: The Awakening and The Struggle, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: The Fury and Dark Reunion, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: The Return: Nightfall, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: Stefan's Diaries: Origins, L.J. Smith
The Vampire Diaries: Stefan's Diaries: Bloodlust, L.J. Smith
Ultramarathon Man: Confessions of an All-Night Runner, Dean Karnazes
The Kennedy Detail, Gerald Blaine with Lisa McCubbin
The Kennedy Assassination: 24 Hours After, Steven M Gillon
50/50: Secrets I Learned Running 50 Marathon in 50 Days, Dean Karnazes
The Brotherhood: A Precinct 11 Novel, Jerry B. Jenkins
127 Hours, Aron Ralston
JFK and the Unspeakable: Why He Died and Why It Matters, James W. Douglass
My Life on the Run, Bart Yasso
On the Trail of the JFK Assassins, Dick Russell
Run!: 26.2 Stories of Blisters and Bliss, Dean Karnazes
The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest, Steig Larsson
Second Wind: One Woman's Midlife Quest to Run Seven Marathons on Seven Continents, Cami Ostman
The Scarpetta Factor, Patricia Cornwell
Dual in the Sun: Alberto Salazar, Dick Beardsley and America's Greatest Marathon, John Brant
Born to Run, Christopher McDougall
Iron Heart, Brian Boyle
Running With Joy: My Daily Journey to the Marathon, Ryan Hall
Scarpetta, Patricia Cornwell
Currently Reading: Predator, Patrica Cornwell
Up Next: Port Mortuary, Patrica Cornwell
Monday, May 02, 2011
Road Ends 5 mile trail run
I ran the Road Ends 5 mile trail run Saturday in Pinckney. I have never run it before, so I didn't know what to expect. I signed up for it because I wanted to try something different. Trails are something different.
The course was very hilly and had tons of rocks and roots scattered all over the trail. I was always looking ahead of me to see the path ahead so I wouldn't trip or twist my ankles. At one point during the second mile, I didn't lift my foot up high enough and tripped and fell over a root. I was asked by two guys behind me if I was OK. I was. I ended up landing on my left hip. It is a little sore still this morning. Otherwise, no injuries.
Most of the first two miles included huge hills. I got up them, but they did take a lot out of me. I was really thankful that the third mile was mostly flat. I made up a minute or two by speeding up and passing a bunch of other people. There was a huge hill during mile 4. There was no point for me to try to run up it. I walked the hill like the others in front of me. It slowed my time. It basically wiped out the time I made up in mile 3.
I was pleased when I passed a volunteer and he said we had less then a quarter mile to go. I picked up my speed and headed towards the finish line. With less then 200 yards to go, I was sprinting towards the finish. I gave it all that I had. A guy that I passed during the race out sprinted me right at the finish line. He was less then a step ahead of me. I was hoping to hold him off. Besides the guy beating me right at the end and my fall, the race was really fun and challenging. I finished in 52:13:70. I improved my 5 mile trail run time by 26:05. I checked my previous 5 mile trail run time from February. I thought I improved by 19 minutes, I was wrong. I went off a different time. I improved my trail run time by 26:05. The improvement is huge. It is that big because the trail run I did earlier this year, snow was up to our knees. It is so much nicer running without snow to slow you down. I will be running this race again next year.
The course was very hilly and had tons of rocks and roots scattered all over the trail. I was always looking ahead of me to see the path ahead so I wouldn't trip or twist my ankles. At one point during the second mile, I didn't lift my foot up high enough and tripped and fell over a root. I was asked by two guys behind me if I was OK. I was. I ended up landing on my left hip. It is a little sore still this morning. Otherwise, no injuries.
Most of the first two miles included huge hills. I got up them, but they did take a lot out of me. I was really thankful that the third mile was mostly flat. I made up a minute or two by speeding up and passing a bunch of other people. There was a huge hill during mile 4. There was no point for me to try to run up it. I walked the hill like the others in front of me. It slowed my time. It basically wiped out the time I made up in mile 3.
I was pleased when I passed a volunteer and he said we had less then a quarter mile to go. I picked up my speed and headed towards the finish line. With less then 200 yards to go, I was sprinting towards the finish. I gave it all that I had. A guy that I passed during the race out sprinted me right at the finish line. He was less then a step ahead of me. I was hoping to hold him off. Besides the guy beating me right at the end and my fall, the race was really fun and challenging. I finished in 52:13:70. I improved my 5 mile trail run time by 26:05. I checked my previous 5 mile trail run time from February. I thought I improved by 19 minutes, I was wrong. I went off a different time. I improved my trail run time by 26:05. The improvement is huge. It is that big because the trail run I did earlier this year, snow was up to our knees. It is so much nicer running without snow to slow you down. I will be running this race again next year.
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