Trail Factor Half Marathon

Oh my gosh. 

Hey, hey!

The worst blogger award goes to yours truly…

Me.

What’s up, guys?

I owe you a recap of my half marathon. Let me say that I haven’t done hills like that in so long and my ass hurts badly.

Well, on May 28th I did the Trail Factor Half Marathon. If you haven’t figured it out by the name already, it was a trail race, which are my favorite.

The elevation was crazy amazing. I’m a sucker for hills and climbing up dirt trails. 

Those squiggly lines mean steep incline.

Anyway, the race started at 8 AM and I was there at 7 AM because my mom is a spaz like that. We showed up, I sat around, and listened to Miley Cyrus Rob Zombie.

I am almost positive that I was the youngest person there. It’s no surprise. I don’t know many 19 year old’s who love running fifteen miles on their free time instead of going to the movies. It’s okay. I have accepted the fact that I’m a weirdo.

Example A:

I have a fake tattoo of bullet holes on my leg. So cool.

Moving on. I obviously peed a few times before everyone starts moving to the starting point. (There is a 50k going on at the same time too.)

And boom! The race started with a, “Go!”

The incredible thing about trail races is that you get to be by yourself on the trail for the majority of the time. I made sure I made my way to the front and I stayed there the remainder of the time. That gives me time to think about whatever, sing out loud, and cuss every time I hit another switch back. 

So, for the next 13.1 miles (probably more), I ran and ran and ran…

Is that Bigfoot?

I think my running stance for my hands is just a permanent thumbs up. Seriously.

After the half way point, I passed one dude. He was pissed too. I caught up with him and then his shoe kept coming untied so he stopped to tie. I was like… really? I have ran two cross-country races with untied shoes. I told him, “Just let it be, man. Keep going.” Such a hippie thing to say.

I passed him and then with, like, a half of a mile to go, I passed another guy.

I crossed the finish line in 1:37. I was 8th place, 1st female, and 1st in my age group. 

It’s funny because the so-called master female runner didn’t finish until twenty minutes after me.

All and all, it was a good race. I love racing. I’m a very competitive person so racing for me is almost natural. I guess that’s the word I’m looking for.

I did win a jacket for being the first female at the half way point. Hurray.

Also, I found out I was adopted that day…

Just kidding. I’m just the only photogenic person in my family.

My family loves me.

Well, that’s my race recap.

Race on, fellas, race on.

Gettin’ Wild

Thank you so much for all your supportive comments on my thoughts about college and the Air Force. All and all, I am really leaning towards the Air Force. As soon as I have a day off from work, I am scheduling an appointment with a recruiter. Just like I think the Air Force isn’t for everyone, I don’t think college is for everyone either.

Let’s get down to business.

Yesterday was my second half marathon, but my first half marathon for a trail race. It was the Wildwood Trail Run. It was actually the same course as the Forest Park 20k I did so I was familiar with the path.

Since I knew it was the same course, I gave myself a goal of beating my previous time. My previous time was 1:36:41. In this case, the seconds matter because I PR by 18 seconds. I was rather disappointed that I didn’t at least do a minute better, but I realized that I started off way too fast. I was so wrapped up in the competition aspect that I didn’t even enjoy my surroundings. I was also so focused on pushing through my soreness from lifting weights the other day that I was afraid to slow down. I just kept pushing it. I felt super fast, but I don’t think I was going that quickly as I felt. It’s funny how that works.

Whatever, whatever.

My final time was 1:36:23.

I came in second place out of 167 people.

I was first in my age group and first woman.

Of course, I’m pleased with my results. Second place isn’t terrible even if it was out of 167 people. It was just one of those races that I wasn’t entirely pumped up for. I listened to some music before hand to get my fired up, but I was just so focused on picking people out from the crowd and telling myself I would beat them.

In actuality, I was a mixed bag of emotions Saturday morning. I was panicky, thrilled, and apprehensive all at once.

               

In the end though, I got my medal and I did set a new record for women on the course for the half marathon. Holla at your girl.

Just adding it to my collection.

That wasn’t a boast or anything.

———————————————————————————————–

 

My appetite is slowly coming back. I somewhat did an experiment that Racing Weight recommended, which I will have a review of soon. In the past two days, I have been starving constantly hence eating sweet onion rings from Burgerville at ten at night. 

Have I stepped on the scale? Yeah…

I’m just telling myself it’s muscle. I mean, it really should be. My pants fit the same.

Who cares? I shouldn’t.

Whatever. Moving on to my new obsession:
So good and it says it helps skin, nails, and hair. I need that. Desperately.

In other news, here’s my week in review first starting with eats:

 Tamales w/ eggplant (good mix I know)
Dinner @ work. Tofu + snap peas + swiss chard + tuna casserole

Dinner @ work again. Tuna + asparagus + rice + potato ball of cheese

Workout review of 25th – 31st:

Monday: 10.01 miles @ 6:42 average pace (hills)
Tuesday: 9.06 miles @ 6:53 average pace
Wednesday: 7.46 miles @ 7:03 average pace (easy run)
Thursday: 10.21 miles @ 6:49 average pace (longer than expected. I got lost.)
Friday: Easy day of upper body weights
Saturday: Race! 13.1 miles @ 6:59 average pace
Sunday: Weights and spin class

Total Mileage: 49.93

I failed at upping my mileage once again. I just want to be in the 50‘s. I’m almost there. I either need to get speedier or go longer. I’ll aim for both.

Enjoy August!

By the way, just out of curiosity, how many of you would enjoy book reviews on normal books? By normal books I mean books not associated with running.

“Second place is not a defeat. It is a stimulation to get better. It makes you even more determined.” - Carlos Lopes

Rethinking

Holla amigos! 

I left you guys with a cliff hanger yesterday, didn’t I? I watch too many soap operas so I must say I am a pro.

Well, let’s begin with Tuesday. I had a bit of breakdown before work and I started yelling anything and everything. What came out was, “I don’t want to go to Portland State. I hate Portland. Blah blah blah. College… yada yada…” You get my point. I came home that night and my mom and I had a talk.

I have always been fascinated by military life. In high school, I seriously considered joining the army. However, I went to college preparatory school where the army seemed to look down upon. College was the focus and women need an education, not the army. I have a great amount of respect for anyone in the military though. I want to be respected like that. Many times people have told me how I am not good enough, not strong enough, and not fast enough. Due to that, I have zero self-confidence.

I am now seriously thinking of joining the Air Force. I want to show others that college isn’t everything. You don’t have to go to college to gain independence. The Air Force will offer me confidence, discipline, and the skills I need to succeed that I feel like college will not give me. After orientation at Portland State the other week, I felt like I was going to loathe it. I didn’t like the people nor did I like the classes that I had to take. I didn’t think I would fit in. With the Air Force, I just might fit in. I just might show others how tough I am. I’m not just a tiny woman who is shy and quiet.

I was thinking of the Marines too, but I like the lifestyle of the Air Force a lot more. I watched the videos online and the Air Force really appealed to me.  Besides, I get run in the Air Force. I can still run cross-country, which is majorly important to me. Whatever I do, wherever I go, I do want to run.

Of course I’m nervous. What if they don’t take me? What if I’m too small? What if I’m not strong enough? Can I still be a vegetarian? Silly questions, I know.

However, I am seriously considering the Air Force. As soon as I have a day off from work (HA, fat chance), I am going to speak to a recruiter.

All I know is that college is not appealing to me currently. Oregon itself is not appealing to me. It never was. I moved to Oregon about six years ago because my brother wanted to. Yes, my brother told me parents he wanted to move so we did.

With all of this, my mom is supporting me… somewhat. She understands how badly I want to run at a professional level. She also would be so proud of me for going into the military. She told me she would be more proud if I went into the military than college because everyone goes to college now. She is just nervous if they don’t take me, then what? Will I end up like my brother who works nonstop because he didn’t go to college? Nonetheless, my mom said she would allow me six months to re-think what I want to do with my life if I decide to not go to college.

Let’s just hope they take me because I think I would actually fit in.

I just have a lot to think about. 

I feel like I still need to talk it over with someone. Someone who too is considering the military or someone who has been in the Air Force. I have watched the videos on the Air Force’s website, but all the videos just have men in them. How can I relate?

In other news, tomorrow is the Wildwood Trail Run. It’s another half marathon. I am thinking of it as another normal run and not a race because I won’t get home until 9:30 tonight due to work then I bet I won’t go to bed until 11 since I’ll just be awake. Ahhh!

Better get my ass in gear now though. I’ll be back to regular posting soon. Until then, have a good weekend!

Wish me luck!

“Anybody can do just about anything with himself that he really wants to and makes his mind to do. We are capable of greater than we realize.”

- Norman Vincent Peale

Q&A:

• What are your views on the military?
• Ever had to really re-think your life? 

Seven Links and a Review

I have been tagged by the badass Alexandra who could probably kick my ass any day of the week with her huge muscles.

Let’s get it started in here!

My Seven Links!

1. Most Beautiful: Tears of Joy. The race in itself was quite beautiful since it was a trail race. I don’t know. None of my posts are really that beautiful. Well, I guess I could count Smile!
2. Most Popular: The Comparison Trap
3. Most Controversial: Tomboy. Okay, so it wasn’t my most controversial post, but it was up there. Note to self: people don’t like it when you post photos of celebrities in bikinis and ask who looks best
4. Most Helpful: So, You Want to Train for a Race? Hey, I thought it was helpful despite the fact that I called bitchy because of it.
5. Surprise Success: Weather Envy.
6. Not Enough Attention: Vegetarianism. Come on, people! Embrace it.
7. Most Proud: Obsession? I definitely think I finally got my point across as in, I don’t run to burn calories, but I run because I truly love it.

And I nominate… drum roll please…

• Allie 
• Emily
• Hollie
• Tara

 Bada bing! That’s a load off my back now.

Sorry for my absence once again. I have been working all the week to either 9 PM or 9:30 PM. I guess my work doesn’t know I have to be in bed my 10 for my bed time. I actually haven’t had a full seven hours of sleep in over a week. After I get home from work I am a) too hungry…

My normal dinner at work is half the size of my dinner I would eat at home.
Example:

Another example:

Third example:

So, like I said, after I get home from work I am a) too hungry and b) too energized to sleep so I watch Seinfeld while eating more food.

Exhibit A, B, and C

Despite my lack of sleep, my workouts haven’t been lacking just yet. 

Here’s my stats from last week:

Monday: Hills 9.45 miles (6.57 average pace)
Tuesday: 7.88 miles (recovery run – average pace 7:06)
Wednesday: Hills 8.73 miles (6:53 average pace)
Thursday: 8.87 miles (7:05 average pace)
Friday: Elliptical + RIPPED class
Saturday: 14.73 miles (6:53 average pace. Half of the run was done at the beach)
Sunday: Weights + spin class

Total mileage: 49.33

Honestly, I wanted my mileage to be more, but I do have a half marathon this Saturday so I should be backing down on the mileage. I’m not much of a taper person. I find when I do taper, I get cranky and my legs just feel stiff from not running what I’m use to.

Anyway, I finished Kara Goucher’s book!

I have to admit, I really did love her book and I’m glad I finally bought it.

Kara Goucher’s Running for Women: From First Steps to Marathons was a simple read that I believe is useful for any runner. Whether you are just starting to run or have been running for years, this book will benefit your running in one way or another. 

The book wasn’t all running tips though. Kara included bits of her life in the book like why she runs, how she started, and why she continues. Kara herself is so inspirational. She has made it so far because she is dedicated. I can only dream of running as fast as her.

Kara Goucher also talks about her injuries in the book and shares her doubts. It was extremely heart warming for her to share that not every race she has done was perfect and that bothers her. You can truly see how competitive she is, which I adore. Normally you view athletes as hubris type people who believe they are golden, but Kara seems to struggle with not winning every single race. She’s only human after all.

Some sections in the book were repetitive and really meant for newbie runners who, I guess, can’t naturally figure out how to get rid of side stitches. A lot of things are common sense, but Kara just simply reminds the reader that you need to eat well to perform well. No duh. Really new runners should skip this book since it does not elaborate on some running issues that you may need to know. Some of her tips were silly and she also added “Dear Kara” letters that were ridiculous. “Dear Kara, why do guys run yada yada yada?” Who cares? However, if you been running for a while, Kara’s tips on running are valuable.

I would give Kara Goucher’s Running for Women: From First Steps to Marathons a 7/10 and that’s being friendly since I love Kara. (Holla, I see her a lot at my track I run at. ) I really hope Kara writes a book that is more of a biography. I would be interested in that.

So, you want to train for a race?

Waddup!

I hope everyone is enjoying their week. It’s Wednesday, but do not expect a WIAW here. Sorry to disappoint you all.

I can’t believe my blog has over 1,000 comments now… all from me. No. But seriously. I never thought my blog would come along. Thanks you guys. I owe you a vlog soon. Maybe a Q&A vlog. I think I’ll do that so if you any questions, ask away.

By the way, I got a new phone! It may not be an iPhone because AT&T directly told me I could not get one. I’m not joking so I bought the Samsung Infuse. Two-hundred dollars out the door now… of my own money. I’m broke again. I guess that’s why I work like 24/7.

It is awesome though. It’s the closest thing to an iPhone, but without the whole Apple buying my soul deal. Check this motha out.

So, I was thinking that if anyone you bloggie boos want to be my texting buddy, hit me up. Just send me your number at lifttorun@gmail.com and we can exchange numbers. I promise I’m really not a fifty year old guy pretending to be an 18-year-old crazy runner.

Also, let me know what your favorite apps are! I’m totally on the lookout for some really good ones. Dailymile anyone?

————————————————————————————————-

So, you want to train for a race?

I have run several races including 5k’s, 15k’s, 20k’s, 3k’s, 800 m, 1500 m, and one half marathon. I personally love training for races. As of now, I am training for another half marathon that is trail race. While I may have not done an abundance of races since I have only been running for about two years, I have learned from past mistakes. I thought I would share some tips for training for any race.

 How to train for a race Christy’s way:

1. Buying perfect running socks is just as important as buying running shoes. I am so meticulous about the socks I run in.  My favorite pair is a pair of wool socks that are semi thin. They are perfect year round despite the fabric being wool. In the winter, they keep my feet warm and in the summer, they keep my feet dry from sweat. I also get blisters so they are awesome for that. Lululemon has amazing running socks except I think they are too thin. Invest a good pair of socks. While Adidas and Nike socks work very well, sometimes socks from your local running store do wonders. Also, buy compression socks. I sleep in my mine and wake up with healed legs.

2. Before investing in a pair of shoes, get your feet tested. By tested, I don’t mean take a quiz or something like that. I mean get your gait/stride/running style analyzed. Many running stores offer an analysis of how you run free. You may think you are a neutral runner, but find out you need stability shoes. Ahem, like me. Running in the wrong shoes that do not fit your feet correctly is awful. You may not feel it right away (like me), but eventually you will be injured (like me) and it sucks. Period.

3. Aches and pains happen, but it should not sideline you. Don’t be a baby. Your calf hurts and you think you should skip a day of running? No. Don’t do it. Get out and run. Aches, soreness, and some pain happens when you run. It is a part of the territory. Suck it up and get out there. Running may help (Source). I may have a sore knee, but I ran anyway. If you are saying “ow” with every step then maybe you can pass up  a run. Just know your body. Sometimes I think runners are such cry babies about every ache and they think they should take a day off. How will you ever get stronger?

“Learn to run when feeling the pain: then push harder.”

4. Don’t be afraid of taking pain relievers. I know they say don’t take any pain relievers before a run, but if just you have a little knee ache, take one. If it still hurts on your run then maybe you should just slow down your pace or just cross-train instead.

5. On that note, cross-train! Cross-training is vital to being an all around athlete that will make you stronger in the long run. Spin class is great for getting faster and the elliptical is great for any recovery days.

6. Strength train; especially the back of your legs. Runners typically forget or just ignore the back of their legs when strength training, but strengthening your glutes, calves, and hamstrings will help you run better. In addition to strengthen your legs (do not be afraid to go heavy), lift weights with your arms. You do use your arms while running anyway so work them, girl, as well as your back muscles. Don’t forget your core! I do abs every night before bed. No six-pack yet though.

I need to catch up with Kara still.

7. Don’t be afraid of running seven days a week. As long as you include three easy days, you’ll be fine. Your body will adapt. We were born to run.

8. Include tempo, hills, and easy runs in your training schedule. Simple as that. Even if you don’t have any hills in your race, do them. They will make you stronger that when you run on a flat course, you will speed right along.

9. Do one training run that is the length of your race. This will prepare you for the actual race day. Wake up the time you would on race day, eat what you need to, stretch, run the distance, and yada yada yada. Then change what you need to change accordingly.

10. Do at least one run longer than your race distance. Say you are running a half marathon that we all know is 13.1 miles. Before your race comes up, it would be a great idea to run maybe 14-16 miles with the last few miles being fast pace. This will test your legs and make you beast. On race day when you have that .1 mile to go, it will feel like piece of carrot cake. I love cake.

11. Foam roll!

Make time for it. I know how difficult it is to ‘fit’ in foam rolling, but the best time to do it is before you hop into bed or immediately after you run. Don’t forget to roll out your feet too with a tennis ball or rolling-pin.

12. Ice aches when needed and take a hot bath at least once every week. I know every runner says take an ice bath, but hot baths with epsom salt help a lot and they are relaxing.

13. While taking that hot bath or when you are icing your knees for 10-15 minutes, read a running book. I recommend finding an inspirational running book or even an educational one because it will motivate you.

14. Use IcyHot. I love Icyhot.

I have the roll on stick and if my knee is bugging me, I just rub it on there and viola!

15. Just run.

If you don’t feel like doing  tempo run or strides, just run for the fun of it.

16. Don’t forget your competitive drive. Be fierce during a race! It’s a race after all. I don’t want to hear that bullshit of, “Oh, I just race for fun and everything is just fun and dandy. This is just a training run. Fun times, everyone!” No. Race hard. Let your animal out. 

How not to train for a race:

1. Stay up until eleven watching Seinfeld while sitting on your foam roller. Hi, I did this last night. I had good intentions though.

2. Make every run speedy. It’s okay to run 7 mile paces. That’s what I tell myself. Yours may be different.

3. Have fun. Running is not about fun. No fun allowed in running.

Do I look happy? No, because running doesn’t involve having a good time.

Things to not worry about while training for a race:

1. Eating too many sweets. You will burn them off.

Who cares? Froyo the night before a big race? I did it and I ran fine.

2. Not doing track workouts. I hate the track with a passion. If you want to do a speed workout, do it on a regular run by adding sprints that last 30 seconds to a minute.

3. Wearing underwear as your racing outfit. Save it for the big league.

I hope you enjoyed my racing/training tips. I guarantee you will win your next race.

I guarantee it or your money back. Send me the money first though. I need it.

Questions:
Do you have any tips to add?
What was your best race? 

‘Somewhere in the world someone is training when you are not. When you race him, he will win.” – Tom Fleming 

* FYI, take this with a grain of salt. There is added sarcasm in here, obviously. And every runner is different. What works for you may not work for me and vice versa.

Let’s Catch Up

What’s crackin’?

Thank you for all the amazing compliments and words on my half marathon. You guys really know how to make a girl feel all warm and fuzzy inside.

I’m glad today I have a day off from work today. I missed the blogging world. I’m finally caught up on reading and commenting my favorite blogs so that’s a load off my back. If only I would put the same amount of effort into doing college tests before my orientation next week. College… pshhh. Who needs it?

I’ll be honest, you guys didn’t miss much of my exciting life of running and work.

Monday: Race

Tuesday: I should have just done the elliptical this day because I felt awful as in sick. I’ll save you the details. On my run, I had side aches so I stopped to breathe. Breathing… you know, you need it. Then at the end of my run, my stomach was like, “Find a bathroom.” Yeah, I know that is TMI. It’s true. It happens.

I was also running in new shoes. I returned my Green Silence shoes since they effed up my knee and I tried on these:

They felt fine on and then when I ran in them, they just felt chunky. I told myself not to go back to Nike shoes and I did. I returned them anyway. Might as well stick with my Adidas. They seem to work. My foot issue has been dwindling.

Wednesday: I made this a hill day. I love hills. Bring them on.

Thursday: I wasn’t sure what I was up for. I just know I wanted to add sprints to my run. It’s easier to add sprints to a run than do a track workout. I loathe the track. The track makes me feel like a hamster just running around in circles.

I guess my sprints weren’t that quick though. I was rather tired. My legs were dead. Don’t even say it because I know I should have given my legs a rest this week, but I was such in a running high. Despite my sprints being more like ‘run faster so you can get home quicker‘ type sprint, I was breathing hard and I was super sweaty. That just means I need to do more sprints and quick runs! Dur.

Friday: Today I was like, “Legs, I’ll give you a break.” I went on the elliptical for a while and watched

Nothing like becoming inspired to ride a bike. Can woman race in the tour?

I also went to this class called RIPPED. Today we went outside to the track (I just can’t avoid the track, can I?) and the workout looked like this:

- Warm up lap
- 15 reps of leg back lunge, military press with one leg balanced, squats with lifting weight in front, abs, and single arm row with one leg balanced.
- Run another lap then repeat 5x

I got sweaty even though I was only lifting a 15-pound barbell. Since the weight was lighter than what I normally would do, I just went deeper in my squats and lunges. My chest is actually hurting from the military press. Cray cray.

—————————————————————————————————

Well, I finally gave in and ordered The New Rules of Lifting for Women.

It’s just taking forever to get here! I don’t know about you, but when I am expecting a magazine (ahem Oxygen) or books in the mail, I want them pronto. Every day when the mail carrier comes, I run out to the mailbox in my compression socks (holla I just bought some) and sandals and rip through the mail. My brother gets more mail than I do and he doesn’t even live at our house.

I was thinking of ordering this book:

I was also thinking of this book:

When I was talking to a woman ultra runner, she recommended his book.

Any reviews/thoughts? Should I go for it?

It’s nice having money in my pocket except I’m frugal and don’t want to buy anything like dinner. Since I work until 9 PM, I have to get dinner out.

Last night I had the best burrito. Well, it was hot and I loved it. It was from Laughing Planet Cafe and on it was: organic brown rice, black beans, sweet potato, fresh spinach, jicama, jerk sauce, and pico de gallo.

It hit the spot.

On Wednesday, I went to a crepe food cart by my work to order roasted sweet yam crepe with (clearly) sweet yam, apple, zucchini, squash, red onion, and agave nectar.

It was just alright.

More honorable eats:

Dinner before the race was a veggie calzone

Tofu + chickpeas + green peas +kale

I got to hit the hay early tonight. Work calls at 6 AM. Booo.

Enjoy your work free weekend!

Questions for you:
- Did I miss anything exciting when I was busy doing my thang?
- Is it difficult for you to spend money?
Oh, random fact of the day. What do Emma Watson and I have in common? We both are gorgeous and know how to dress. We have the same sports bra. Shout to Emma! Holla girl. Getting sport bras at Victoria’s Secret is where it is at.

“To a runner, a side stich is like a car alarm. It signifies something is wrong, but you ignore it until it goes away.”

Push It

Howdy! Should I just skip the chit-chat and get right into details?

Before I talk about the Foot Traffic Flat Half Marathon, guess who I saw today? I was running back to the gym and right by my gym is Duniway Track where Kara Goucher was running laps… like hella fast. She was wearing a sports bra and spandex and she has abs of steel. Oh my god. You could see the outline of her abs.

Anyway, the race! 

Before the race: I woke up at five, got dressed, rolled out my foot, and stood in my room debating on whether or not I should make my bed. I didn’t. I had some water with my vitamins before I left along with a banana and peanut butter. I’m one of those people who can eat before a run, but I cannot eat before a race. There’s a difference. My nerves take over.

We (my parents and I) had to leave the house early since it takes about 30 minutes to get to Sauvie Island. It’s just right outside of the city center of Portland. In the car I listened to pumpin’ music and read Runner’s World. Nothing like Pink and running magazines to get you motivated just to run.

Half way there, the traffic got bad. There’s only one way to the island so of course everyone and their brother is there. The race itself started at 6:45 and we had like thirty minutes to get there once we were on the bridge to the island. Yeah… that took forever. By the time we got across the bridge and a bit further, we had like fifteen minutes until the start of the half marathon. Needless to say, I was starting to freak out. I had to pee so badly too and you know at races… the porter potty line is as long as the line for the food.

We actually got to the start of the race area in time with like fifteen minuets to spare. While I was standing in line at the bathroom, guess who just comes up to me? The girl from the my cross-country team. I know, right? She’s like, “Hey! I’m just going to cut in front of everyone to go to the bathroom too, but I’ll pretend like we’re best friends so no one cares.” Obviously she didn’t say that, but that’s what happened. I didn’t even want to talk to her. Whatever. I wished her well afterwards and walked to the start. 

The race:

The race course was great! By the name of the race, it was obviously flat, but there was a lot of wind. The sun was out and it was just cool out. I loved it. The scenery was beautiful. I passed cows, horses, cornfields, cute firefighters, etc.

My first minute mile was 7:07. I am never one to get out fast. I don’t do it naturally. I just go at my own pace and eventually build up. I’d rather pass people (which I did) than have people pass me. People wouldn’t want to pass me anyway. I’m insane and I sing out loud. I also said, “Awwww” every time I passed an animal. Good thing there weren’t any cats. I stop when I see cats and pet them. Seriously. I’m a crazy cat lady.

Anyway, my average pace was 6:33. 

I really just tried to push it the whole time. I wasn’t hurting besides like once or twice. My foot was just annoying. It wasn’t painful. Besides, I have been waking up with less foot pain everyday. I can actually get out of bed without falling to the floor.

But I am getting off topic. I really need to work on speed during my regular runs.

During the race, I just pushed it nonstop.

So attractive. I have one leg. You guys didn’t know that?

I didn’t want to slow down, especially after I heard I was in sixth place for the women and that’s when I was literally running side by side with another woman. I had to pass her, so I did.

The rest of the race was just me and myself, running pass men. I would tell them good job or keep it up, man.

I knew I was getting closer to the finish since there were more people and then I saw the end. I just started sprinting, passing men as I went. I wanted it so badly. When I sprint hardcore, I start yelling. I just let out grunts. i didn’t give a shit. I’m strange. I know it.

I suck at recaps so I’m just going to get to the dirty…

My final time was 1:24. 

I was first in my age group.

I was fifth woman overall. 

I came in 45th place out of 1641. 

Sometimes I think to myself that I want to one day be an elite runner and run races hardcore all out with my little spandex on.

I want to train for the Olympics. I love running both for the recreation aspect and the competition. I love racing. I love that after I cross the finish line, I feel like death in a good way. I love that after a race, people come up to me and tell me how great I raced. Then they find out my age and walk away because they realized they just got owned by an 18 year old.

The only time I feel confident in myself is after I cross that finish line. I feel good about myself. I know I tried my best.

This was an amazing race. I don’t even want to know how I would handle myself with an awful race. I know that day will come though.

Until then, enjoy sweaty photos of me.

These were my dad’s photography skills. I was looking at the photos he took since he said he got some of me crossing the finish line and there was an actual photo of a pole. Then there photos of random people sitting. Thanks, Pop.

An actual photographer’s skills:

“Everyone in life is looking for a certain rush. Racing is where I get mine.” – John Trautmann 

Nobody said it would be easy, they just said it would be worth it.

I know it was only a half marathon. It’s not like I ran an ultra or even a marathon, but this race was just the little UMPFFF I needed to fall in love with running again.

Run like you stole something

Doing an 3-4 mile easy run this morning didn’t happen.

I was up at 5:30 for work, out the door by 6:30, and finally at the gym by 11:45. I was fried mentally and physically. Well, I’m sure if I did run, I would have felt better in the first five minutes. I was still super tired though. I normally don’t take naps, but when I got the gym, I just kept thinking if there was a bed here I would sleep. With that thought, I knew I needed more rest than what I was going to give myself for tomorrow’s half marathon.

I did take a Zumba class and I am never taking it again. I am a white girl who can’t dance. For the first 15 minutes no one else was there. I was the only one with the teacher and she was doing all these Latin moves. Don’t worry. The class was easy on my legs since I had no idea what I was doing. I looked like the biggest dork. I looked like a 6th grade boy at his first middle school dance trying to be cool.

Look at all that sweat from Zumba except not really. I bet I was the only person who left the gym today who looked like they didn’t work out whatsoever.

When the Zumba class was over, the teacher was like trying to convince me to come back. Lady, I will come back to Zumba when the Kardashian’s let me apart of their family. 

I haven’t had a rest day in a while. I can’t remember the last time I have sat for this long. I even took a nap! I woke up to no one home. It is my mom’s birthday so I guess she went to see a movie and is going to pick me up for dinner at seven. I can’t wait that long. I’m already hungry.

Does anyone find that they are more hungry on rest days? Oh wee. What up with that? No really. I want to know.

Apparently, exercise is an appetite suppressant. I know on days that I do workout, I get hungry, but never extremely hungry after working out. On days that I may take it easy, I am twice as hungry. Is my body making up for the days that I worked out and perhaps didn’t eat enough? 

On that note, here is my week in review:

Monday: Approximately 11.08 miles
Tuesday: Elliptical and a strength & conditioning class
Wednesday: 11.41 miles
Thursday: 8.46 miles 
Friday: Approximately 8 miles (I forgot to press start again after stopping at a stoplight at 6 miles)
Saturday: Spin class and elliptical
Sunday: Zumba/Rest

Total running mileage: Approximately 45 miles. 
I really want that to increase so maybe next week I’ll be adding a few extra miles. It was the same mileage as last week, which somewhat disappoints me.

Damn you, foot. I hate you. I’m starting to think it will never go back to normal.

I did buy a pair of Adidas Recovery Sandals.

I don’t know much about them, but I saw the word ‘recovery‘ so I bought them. Does anyone else wear them or know if they actually are good for your feet?

Well, that about sums it up. I’m going to spend the rest of my of rest day watching Baby Mama, carbo loading, reading Runner’s World (half marathon edition. What’s the luck of that?), and making cornbread. Sleep will happen since my race starts at 6:45. That seems so early! I’ll just go in my PJ’s.

Let’s get racin’!

Happy 4th of July to everyone!

Questions:
What are you doing for the 4th?
Like my new sticker on my car?

Random story of the day:
My coworker asked me what I was doing tomorrow and I said I was racing. Then she asked how much I run daily and I hate when I get that question because, you know, it varies. Gosh, non-runners know nothing. Anyway, I said I could run 8-9 miles in an hour and she was like,

Then everyone she saw, she told them how much I ran. It made me feel all fuzzy inside. Weird. I know. Then I was embarrassed. At least someone takes an interest in my interest. And yes, my coworker is Snooki. We like to eat pickles together.

“Running is a big question mark that’s there each and every day. It asks you, ‘Are you going to be a wimp or are you going to be strong today?’”
- Peter Maher, Irish-Canadian Olympian and sub-2:12 marathoner

Pump It Up

My Saturday has so far looked like this:

• Wake up at seven and lay in bed while the alarm goes off for a few minutes
• Eat breakfast/ice foot
• Clean the downstairs of my house
• Go to the gym for spin class and elliptical (my foot was feeling not so peachy keen)
• Come home, eat lunch
• Leave to get nails done – painted blue for my 4th of July race
• Get eyebrows waxed
• Tan
• Shower at 2:30 ish
• Eat some more

I haven’t had my nails done in months. It felt so nice. I got my feet done too and I was ready to fall asleep. I couldn’t forget my eyebrows though. It’s like tradition for me to get my eyebrows done before a race. That extra hair will slow me down, folks.

That reminds me…

My half marathon is in two days! Oh my goodness. It’s going to be my first half marathon that I’m racing.

I already picked up my bib number

and t-shirt.

I got skills. 

While I was at Fit Right NW getting my racing gear, I got a half marathon tee.

I’m not that pale. It’s called my camera likes to make me look like a vamp.

I feel prepared for my half marathon. Mentally, I am pumped. I feel like kicking some ass. Just hopefully my foot is on board also.

Physically, I know I can run 13.1 miles. I know I could win a bread pudding contest too, but I’m getting off topic. Physically, I’m ready if my foot is too. I’m just pumped up! I got some new Nike tempo shorts and a matching neon shirt. I’ll be sure to take photos.

In addition, there is this girl from my cross-country team that pisses me off to no end and she too is running the half marathon. I’ll be the first to admit that I am one for hardcore competition. Little does she know, it’s a race for me to beat her… and the 2,000 other runners. 

Tomorrow I am still unsure on how much I should run; if I should at all. I know on half marathon training programs they say do not run at all, but if I don’t do some sort of movement, the next day my legs feel heavy. Should I do like four easy miles or less than that?

Overall, tomorrow will be a rather restful day after I get home from work. It’s my mom’s birthday! She’s turning, like, 30. My dad is going to be home too (he’ll be here for my race. Yes!) and we are – I think – going to one of my favorite Italian restaurant. It’s called Jopa and they have a veggie calzone the size of my head. Not kidding. Cheese just melting out and sauce oozing. Get in my belly.

If anyone else has a race this 4th of July weekend, I wish you the best.

Run hard. Run fast.

Trip some people up if you have to. Who said runners can’t be violent?

Also, if any runner has a race this weekend or coming up, here are tips to make sure you run your best race:

The Day Before the Race:
• Rest your legs. If you go to the expo, try to go early and not spend hours walking around.
• Drink plenty of water all day.
• Lay out your race-day clothing

Race Day:
• Keep to your eating routine. If you usually eat before a long run, do it. If not, remember that the time between getting up and starting the race is at least two hours, not the half-hour or 45 minutes it is for a training run.
• Arrive with enough time.
• Get in line for the portable toilets right away.

 Any more tips for running a race – half marathon or not?

 

 

“If one could run without getting tired I don’t think one would often want to do anything else.” 
- C.S. Lewis

No Hatin’

Hiya! Before I even start this post, I want to be a Negative Nancy opposed to my Positive Polly self. Well, I just want to voice my opinion for a moment so call me Voicing Victor. (??) Alrighty. Too many names.

The reason I don’t do WIAW is because I don’t want your comments on what I eat even if it is enough for everything that I do. I don’t want to read “you eat too much of that” or “no wonder why you’re hungry all the time” type of comments.

I should have known by posting my review of workouts this week that I would get shit. “Oh, you do so much. You are wasting your life. Take a rest. You need rest.”  First of all, who said I was working out all hardcore on the elliptical after my runs? It’s how I cool down. Who said I am even pushing myself to oblivion on my runs? Blogs are one dimensional. What I do and what I post can be two very different things.

As for rest, I take rest days when I know I need them. I understand athletes take rest days, but not all of them take them every week. They take them when they feel they need it or they take active rest days. 

If my workouts, what I eat, or how I post celebrity workouts bothers you, then whatever.

Yes, I said it. The end. 

——————————————————————————————–

So, on Monday I successfully did a long run with my friend on the trails. We did approximately 11 miles.  I think my Garmin lost a signal at one point so it may be 12. Let’s just say 11. It was slow though. I’m not saying this to beep my own horn, but I was faster than my friend and she told me to go ahead. So I did then I would wait for her. I felt bad. I hate when you run with someone and you really have to slow down your pace.

But it was nice to run with someone. Besides, I love the trails. I could be on them all day. Holla for 11 miles!

That’s obviously how I run.

I had to refuel somehow and I wasn’t going to pay six dollars at Whole Food’s juice bar for a smoothie.

 Veggie pizza

Baskin Robin’s baseball nut and Reese’s ice cream

Seeing that I did 11 miles on Monday, Tuesday I just stuck to the elliptical and a strength & conditioning class.  My foot was feeling iffy. It doesn’t hurt, but it just doesn’t feel like my left foot. Perhaps it’s still getting used to running. I don’t know. As long as I don’t feel pain, I’m fine. No pain.

———————————————————————————————-

I had work today at 7 AM, which meant I had a 5:30 wake up call. I don’t know how I took a shower and got dressed in under 20 minutes, but I did. Oh wait. I don’t shave my legs nor do I layer on makeup so that explains it.

Work has been going very well lately. I talked to the boss about working in the afternoons and it seems like they are looking into it. Also, I get to work immediately after my half marathon on Monday. Work it, girl. 

It may have not been the best idea to run 11.41 miles today. I didn’t plan it. I just kept going and I wasn’t thinking about anything. You ever have those runs when your mind is clear and you just listen to the sound of your breathing? That’s what happened so I kept going.

I did stop at New Seasons Market to pee and eat their free samples. Duh.

I don’t know why, but my half marathon that’s in like three days keeps slipping my mind. It’s not real to me yet. Not that running a half marathon is the big deal, but racing one… that’s getting to me. I’m such a perfectionist that it is making me nervous. What if I do not do that well? What if my foot gives out finally? Ahhh.

Remember when I said I see a marathon in the future? Well, I filled out form because I am interested in this one:

I love Tosh.0. I even saw Daniel Tosh live.

If you don’t know, I am a huge comedy fan. There was a time when I wanted to be a comedian. I would still like to be a comedian, but… I’m not  funny.

I could be a model though. I mean, look at me. I have so much in common with Jillian Michaels and Audrina Patridge.

Time for honorable eats: 

Questions:
- Do you run the day before a race?
- Who is your favorite comedian?