Assuming my legs don't fall off between now and March 17, I'm going to run a marathon. Researchers currently are calculating the probability of my legs falling off; I'll get back to you when I know. But seriously... This just hit me tonight, as I was counting miles -- miles completed during training (397) and miles to go (112). By Friday, my miles-to-go will be in the double digits. Crazy! It feels as though I've been anticipating this for so long, and now it's almost here and yet still 31 days away.
31 days is not very many, though, especially when you have a busy schedule. It has already been a bit harder to juggle schedules to get runs in this semester. I've done a bit of shuffling, woken up super early some mornings, and passed on quite a bit of sleep. That's not ideal, but I'm getting the miles in. I'm already working on a post explaining why your first year of graduate school is both the best and worst time to train for a marathon.
After my internship today I hit the streets for 6 miles at an average 8:34 pace, which was created mostly by a very fast last mile in the 7's. I was scheduled for 5, but I felt pretty good and the route I chose mid-run was going to take me over the limit. As I approached my last intersection, I saw I'd reach my normal stopping point at about 5.75. I'm a stickler for all things even, straight lines and symmetry, so I knew I could get 6. (Further evidence of this neurosis is that, when gas did not cost $1 million per gallon, I used to top off such that the total cost was rounded to a tenth, rather than one-hundredth. Yup. I'm over that now, though.)
Tomorrow I'm scheduled for 8. I don't know where it's going to fit, but it'll go somewhere.
Showing posts with label Baltimore. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Baltimore. Show all posts
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Monday, February 13, 2012
Day 91 - Yummies
Don't tell running, but there are a lot of things I enjoy more than running. One of those things happens to be eating good food. More specifically -- eating good Mexican food. Surely I've mentioned my "recovery burritos," in which I often indulge after a long run. Or a short run. Or no run at all.
The truth is plain and simple: I love Mexican food.
Today, after church, I headed over to Tortilleria Sinaloa with a friend. I went there for the first time about a month ago and spoke briefly with the owner. Today, she recognized us when we walked in (+3 points). We arrived at the same time as about 10 other people, and the place is pretty small, so I was a little unsure as to where we would sit (-1 point). However, as soon as our food came out, Melissa, the aforementioned owner, went out of her way to clear us a place to stand by moving a big basket of chips and some other things (+4 points). She then proceeded to talk with us for about 5 minutes, which was so delightful (+5 points), before a spot cleared for us to sit (+1 point). Melissa was super attentive, even though it's basically self-serve once you've gotten your food (+2), and the food was fabulous, as expected (+2 points).
There's nothing scientific about my scoring system, but Tortilleria Sinaloa is clearly in the positive for dining experience. The food is excellent, the prices are great, and everything feels special. Plus, I feel like I'm supporting the "little guy," even though the place is hardly unknown; it has about a bazillion accolades from various sources. If you're ever in Baltimore, go here. And call me, because I want to go with you.
Moving on to my other most frequently discussed topic... after getting a bit of work done this afternoon, I got in 10 miles on the trainer for my Sunday cross-training. It's been a while since my last ride, and since my last real cross-training in general, so it was nice to get the miles in. Also convenient was the fact that I strapped my iPhone to the handlebars and watched an episode of Law and Order: SVU on Netflix. I can't hear my computer over the hum of the trainer, so the iPhone was the perfect solution because I could have it close enough to use headphones. What a nerd!
The truth is plain and simple: I love Mexican food.
Today, after church, I headed over to Tortilleria Sinaloa with a friend. I went there for the first time about a month ago and spoke briefly with the owner. Today, she recognized us when we walked in (+3 points). We arrived at the same time as about 10 other people, and the place is pretty small, so I was a little unsure as to where we would sit (-1 point). However, as soon as our food came out, Melissa, the aforementioned owner, went out of her way to clear us a place to stand by moving a big basket of chips and some other things (+4 points). She then proceeded to talk with us for about 5 minutes, which was so delightful (+5 points), before a spot cleared for us to sit (+1 point). Melissa was super attentive, even though it's basically self-serve once you've gotten your food (+2), and the food was fabulous, as expected (+2 points).
There's nothing scientific about my scoring system, but Tortilleria Sinaloa is clearly in the positive for dining experience. The food is excellent, the prices are great, and everything feels special. Plus, I feel like I'm supporting the "little guy," even though the place is hardly unknown; it has about a bazillion accolades from various sources. If you're ever in Baltimore, go here. And call me, because I want to go with you.
Moving on to my other most frequently discussed topic... after getting a bit of work done this afternoon, I got in 10 miles on the trainer for my Sunday cross-training. It's been a while since my last ride, and since my last real cross-training in general, so it was nice to get the miles in. Also convenient was the fact that I strapped my iPhone to the handlebars and watched an episode of Law and Order: SVU on Netflix. I can't hear my computer over the hum of the trainer, so the iPhone was the perfect solution because I could have it close enough to use headphones. What a nerd!
Friday, February 10, 2012
Day 89 - 21
21.
Today I ran 21 miles. By myself. On the same trail (BWI Loop) that nearly killed me two weeks ago. Remember? The one where I was despondent and unable to finish 20 miles. Yeah; that one. Today, I killed it; twice.
I spent 3 hours and 8 minutes with myself. (That works out to about an 8:57 pace, in case you were wondering.) 3+ hours in my own head, all the while telling my legs they had to keep moving. And I made it out alive -- an impressive feat given the way my mind wanders. :) But seriously, I actually enjoyed this run. There were some miles in the middle where I felt so strong. I wasn't running super fast, but I was steady and sure. For parts, I ran at a very controlled pace without really focusing on my Garmin too much. I found my groove, and I stayed in it. That was so encouraging.
That's not to say this run was without trials. Miles 10 and 16, both miles in which I took a GU, were slow. They both happened to begin with an uphill, just as I was focusing on opening a GU and getting it down. This slowed me significantly for those miles. Apparently I have not perfected the art of keeping pace, opening and eating GU, and running uphill. Something to aspire to... The last three miles were touch-and-go, too. I finally started to get bored, but I knew I could make it. My legs were tired, though. I was out of GU, because my fourth packet had fallen out of my hydration belt somewhere along the way; I was also out of fluids, and I was pretty thirsty. I counted by tenths-of-a-mile and watched the seconds tick by, which only made things worse.
About two miles from the finish I got caught at one of the few intersections the trail crosses that actually has enough traffic to require obeying the crossing signal. Of course, I had the hand. I slowed and tried to bounce around at the intersection while waiting for it to change. When I started running again, I thought my legs might actually give out. I'd lost so much momentum just from that one stop. It was killer, but I pressed on, chanting to myself, "You are a powerhouse. You will do this." And I did! I even ran 21.05, because I set the goal of a particular fence post that I knew would take me through to 21. At that point, I needed a landmark, not an obscure distance.
Post-run, I hobbled to my car to take off my hydration belt and get my phone. I called my dad to tell him what I'd accomplished and that I'd worn my RoadID for the first time while doing it. (It was my Valentine's Day present. Best dad ever.) Thankfully, no one needed the information on it! I hobbled back over to a bench, laid down on the ground, and elevated my legs while watching the planes come in to land. (The loop I ran circles BWI airport, and the small park where I parked my car is basically at the end of some of the runways.) I stretched and then came home. My legs were hurting like crazy for the rest of the afternoon/evening. I think they just wanted to know what I'd put them through. Understandably so.
Still, I had plans tonight, and sore legs weren't going to stop me. A bunch of people from school got together to celebrate a friend's birthday by going duckpin bowling. That's a Maryland thing, through and through; so if you aren't familiar with it, go Google it. I had a blast, of course. Also, last week my dad bequeathed my grandmother's bowling balls to me, bag included. It was so fun to use them. She and my grandfather bowled in a league for a number of years. As it turned out, everyone seemed to think those two balls were good luck, because we all bowled significantly better while using them. Good fun!
I'm now resting and icing, reflecting on a really successful run day and reminding myself to be thankful. Before I ran, I prayed God would give me the grace to accept defeat, or the grace to give Him credit for a good run. Either way, I'd need grace. He was generous, giving me both a good run and the knowledge that He enabled every step.
Today I ran 21 miles. By myself. On the same trail (BWI Loop) that nearly killed me two weeks ago. Remember? The one where I was despondent and unable to finish 20 miles. Yeah; that one. Today, I killed it; twice.
I spent 3 hours and 8 minutes with myself. (That works out to about an 8:57 pace, in case you were wondering.) 3+ hours in my own head, all the while telling my legs they had to keep moving. And I made it out alive -- an impressive feat given the way my mind wanders. :) But seriously, I actually enjoyed this run. There were some miles in the middle where I felt so strong. I wasn't running super fast, but I was steady and sure. For parts, I ran at a very controlled pace without really focusing on my Garmin too much. I found my groove, and I stayed in it. That was so encouraging.
That's not to say this run was without trials. Miles 10 and 16, both miles in which I took a GU, were slow. They both happened to begin with an uphill, just as I was focusing on opening a GU and getting it down. This slowed me significantly for those miles. Apparently I have not perfected the art of keeping pace, opening and eating GU, and running uphill. Something to aspire to... The last three miles were touch-and-go, too. I finally started to get bored, but I knew I could make it. My legs were tired, though. I was out of GU, because my fourth packet had fallen out of my hydration belt somewhere along the way; I was also out of fluids, and I was pretty thirsty. I counted by tenths-of-a-mile and watched the seconds tick by, which only made things worse.
About two miles from the finish I got caught at one of the few intersections the trail crosses that actually has enough traffic to require obeying the crossing signal. Of course, I had the hand. I slowed and tried to bounce around at the intersection while waiting for it to change. When I started running again, I thought my legs might actually give out. I'd lost so much momentum just from that one stop. It was killer, but I pressed on, chanting to myself, "You are a powerhouse. You will do this." And I did! I even ran 21.05, because I set the goal of a particular fence post that I knew would take me through to 21. At that point, I needed a landmark, not an obscure distance.
Post-run, I hobbled to my car to take off my hydration belt and get my phone. I called my dad to tell him what I'd accomplished and that I'd worn my RoadID for the first time while doing it. (It was my Valentine's Day present. Best dad ever.) Thankfully, no one needed the information on it! I hobbled back over to a bench, laid down on the ground, and elevated my legs while watching the planes come in to land. (The loop I ran circles BWI airport, and the small park where I parked my car is basically at the end of some of the runways.) I stretched and then came home. My legs were hurting like crazy for the rest of the afternoon/evening. I think they just wanted to know what I'd put them through. Understandably so.
Still, I had plans tonight, and sore legs weren't going to stop me. A bunch of people from school got together to celebrate a friend's birthday by going duckpin bowling. That's a Maryland thing, through and through; so if you aren't familiar with it, go Google it. I had a blast, of course. Also, last week my dad bequeathed my grandmother's bowling balls to me, bag included. It was so fun to use them. She and my grandfather bowled in a league for a number of years. As it turned out, everyone seemed to think those two balls were good luck, because we all bowled significantly better while using them. Good fun!
I'm now resting and icing, reflecting on a really successful run day and reminding myself to be thankful. Before I ran, I prayed God would give me the grace to accept defeat, or the grace to give Him credit for a good run. Either way, I'd need grace. He was generous, giving me both a good run and the knowledge that He enabled every step.
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Day 87 - Dad Knows Best
Today's scheduled run: 5 miles
Today's completed run: 5 miles
Pace: 8:27 avg
Today was perhaps the most yucktastic of my training days thus far. That's pretty good, considering I've been training all winter. I suppose the weekend it snowed was the worst, but I'd already gotten my long run in, so I didn't have to do anything in it. Today I had five miles to complete and was ready to hit the treadmill. Ready, I said; not excited. As I was preparing to head out, I heard my dad's voice in my head: "You have to train in anything, because you never know what it will be doing on race day." (Or something like that.)
I groaned, audibly, even though I was alone, and traded my shorts for my fleece-lined running tights and a waterproof jacket. Weatherwise, I had wintry mix, snow, and plain old rain. The wintry mix/snow portion lasted about a mile, while the steady rain lasted for the remaining four. Ick. I don't like the cold, and I don't like being wet while cold. Does anyone?
Still, I was so glad I ran outside! I also decided not to obsess about pace and let my body decide what it could and couldn't do. I've been watching my Garmin like a hawk these last few runs, which can stress me out. It was really nice to just run for the first four miles (8:51/8:28/8:31/8:45). Hey - I never said I was a consistent pacer; that's typically what I use the Garmin for. As with several of my recent runs, I pushed hard to run the last mile at a sub-8:00. I achieved that goal with a 7:47, which explains the 8:27 average pace for the whole run.
I like ending with a fast mile; it's like I leave everything on the road. Whatever happened in the miles leading up to that last one doesn't matter, because I'm going to run my heart out for the last one and end strong. There's something to be said for ending strong. There's also something to be said for the fact that this post is starting to sound like the commercial designed by Mel Gibson and Helen Hunt's characters in What Women Want. With that in mind, I'll stop while I'm behind. :)
Today's completed run: 5 miles
Pace: 8:27 avg
Today was perhaps the most yucktastic of my training days thus far. That's pretty good, considering I've been training all winter. I suppose the weekend it snowed was the worst, but I'd already gotten my long run in, so I didn't have to do anything in it. Today I had five miles to complete and was ready to hit the treadmill. Ready, I said; not excited. As I was preparing to head out, I heard my dad's voice in my head: "You have to train in anything, because you never know what it will be doing on race day." (Or something like that.)
I groaned, audibly, even though I was alone, and traded my shorts for my fleece-lined running tights and a waterproof jacket. Weatherwise, I had wintry mix, snow, and plain old rain. The wintry mix/snow portion lasted about a mile, while the steady rain lasted for the remaining four. Ick. I don't like the cold, and I don't like being wet while cold. Does anyone?
Still, I was so glad I ran outside! I also decided not to obsess about pace and let my body decide what it could and couldn't do. I've been watching my Garmin like a hawk these last few runs, which can stress me out. It was really nice to just run for the first four miles (8:51/8:28/8:31/8:45). Hey - I never said I was a consistent pacer; that's typically what I use the Garmin for. As with several of my recent runs, I pushed hard to run the last mile at a sub-8:00. I achieved that goal with a 7:47, which explains the 8:27 average pace for the whole run.
I like ending with a fast mile; it's like I leave everything on the road. Whatever happened in the miles leading up to that last one doesn't matter, because I'm going to run my heart out for the last one and end strong. There's something to be said for ending strong. There's also something to be said for the fact that this post is starting to sound like the commercial designed by Mel Gibson and Helen Hunt's characters in What Women Want. With that in mind, I'll stop while I'm behind. :)
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Day 85 & 86 - Oops
Clearly committing to blog once a day may have been a little over the top. Once "real training" is over, I don't think a blog per day will be happening. Day 85 was yesterday -- my normally busy Monday with some other things to make it even busier. It was also a rest day, so I have nothing related to running to report.
Today's scheduled run: 5 miles
Today's completed run: 5.17 miles
Pace: 8:37 avg
I wanted to run this morning, before my first class; but going to bed close to 1:00 am rendered me useless in all efforts to get out of bed and get moving. I was a little bummed but planned to run after my second class of the day. Then, wonderful surprise of all surprises -- my 9-12 class got out early, at 11:30, so I was able take advantage of the extra time and run in some beautiful weather. I thought the wind would make it colder than it really was, so I was overdressed, but it was still a pretty good run. My legs felt a little heavy but nothing too serious. It was a lovely day to run around Baltimore and the Harbor. I think it's supposed to snow tomorrow, so I'm thankful for another day of warm weather in February. Hopefully it comes back!
It's hard to believe I have less than six weeks of training left. I have some pretty big weekend runs planned in there, which makes six weeks seem like a long time; but experience tells me those six weeks will fly. I can hardly believe how far I've come in training, particularly with regard to the mental aspect of running. All that running alone has turned me into a mental machine; I can occupy myself with the best of them.
But I'm still looking for running partners... Anyone?
Today's scheduled run: 5 miles
Today's completed run: 5.17 miles
Pace: 8:37 avg
I wanted to run this morning, before my first class; but going to bed close to 1:00 am rendered me useless in all efforts to get out of bed and get moving. I was a little bummed but planned to run after my second class of the day. Then, wonderful surprise of all surprises -- my 9-12 class got out early, at 11:30, so I was able take advantage of the extra time and run in some beautiful weather. I thought the wind would make it colder than it really was, so I was overdressed, but it was still a pretty good run. My legs felt a little heavy but nothing too serious. It was a lovely day to run around Baltimore and the Harbor. I think it's supposed to snow tomorrow, so I'm thankful for another day of warm weather in February. Hopefully it comes back!
It's hard to believe I have less than six weeks of training left. I have some pretty big weekend runs planned in there, which makes six weeks seem like a long time; but experience tells me those six weeks will fly. I can hardly believe how far I've come in training, particularly with regard to the mental aspect of running. All that running alone has turned me into a mental machine; I can occupy myself with the best of them.
But I'm still looking for running partners... Anyone?
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Day 81 - New Shoes and a Groundhog
Today's scheduled run: 5 miles
Today's completed run: 5 miles
Pace: 8:33 avg
Two great parts about today's run: shorts and new shoes. It should be obvious as to why these two things would be a favorite part. Shorts -- because it's February. This time two years ago we were getting ready for 55 inches of snow. I'll take the warm temperatures, thanks. New shoes -- because they're new shoes. Duh. I purchased a second pair of Brooks Adrenaline (11th edition); this new pair is a bit more colorful, eh? This will allow me to swap shoes, something sagely runners suggest you do. I'll wear my already worn-in but still great pair for shorter runs and the new pair for longer runs.
In other news, you probably heard that Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow today, which means 6 more weeks of winter. The buzz on Twitter this morning was basically this: if temperatures in the 50s and 60s are this year's version of winter, we'll take six more weeks. For sure! I could not have been handed a better "winter" to train for a marathon!
A few winters ago, in 2009, I had the distinct honor of waking up well before dawn to walk over to Gobbler's Knob for the Groundhog Day festivities. While other attendees had been out in the cold all night to secure their views of the rodent, my friends and I had VIP passes, courtesy of a friend who's uncle was in the Inner Circle. We were escorted right down to the front for what was one of the weirdest experiences ever. Did you know that Phil's teeth are so sharp his handler wears gloves with chainmail underneath? Me neither, until that day. It was one of those things that you do once in your life and are glad you did it, even though you don't ever plan to do it again.
Anyway, let's hope Phil's right and winter as we've known it these past few days is here to stay for six weeks.
Today's completed run: 5 miles
Pace: 8:33 avg
 |
| Old pair (L), new pair (R) |
In other news, you probably heard that Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow today, which means 6 more weeks of winter. The buzz on Twitter this morning was basically this: if temperatures in the 50s and 60s are this year's version of winter, we'll take six more weeks. For sure! I could not have been handed a better "winter" to train for a marathon!
 |
| A top-hat man, member of the Inner Circle |
Anyway, let's hope Phil's right and winter as we've known it these past few days is here to stay for six weeks.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Day 80 - Morning Run Take 2 and a Review
Today's scheduled run: 8 miles
Today's completed run: 8 miles
Pace: 8:48 avg
Knowing that I wouldn't be able to run at any other time today given my schedule, I rolled out of bed (well, more like tripped because one of my slippers was in the way on the floor) and ran this morning. The run was pretty good, overall. Unless you live under a rock, you've probably heard that the weather everywhere on the east coast has been absolutely amazing. It got up to 70 today! If this is the new face of winter, I like it. It was 54 when I ran this morning; I consider that the ideal running temperature. Running along the water to the rising sun was as beautiful as ever, even though one corner of the Harbor boasted a pretty nasty smell. That's beside the point, though.
It was a great way to welcome in February, though I can hardly believe it's already February! 44 days until the big day! I'm excited and a little anxious but looking forward to feeling a great sense of accomplishment. Now if Competitor would just release the course map...
January was a big month of running for me. It was definitely the most running I've ever done in a month, with a total of 126 miles. I also ran my fastest mile ever -- a 7:44, which was mile 7 of an 8-miler. I'm a bit of an accidental runner, i.e. I didn't do anything in particular to get that mile time other than decide I wanted to run fast. It's basically a fluke, but I'll take it. It also is evidence as to how mental running really is.
I'm scheduled for a total of 140 miles in February, and I'll begin tapering (decreasing mileage) at the end of the month. Mileage will be light in the two weeks of March leading up the marathon, and then I plan to sleep for the rest of the month.
Today's completed run: 8 miles
Pace: 8:48 avg
Knowing that I wouldn't be able to run at any other time today given my schedule, I rolled out of bed (well, more like tripped because one of my slippers was in the way on the floor) and ran this morning. The run was pretty good, overall. Unless you live under a rock, you've probably heard that the weather everywhere on the east coast has been absolutely amazing. It got up to 70 today! If this is the new face of winter, I like it. It was 54 when I ran this morning; I consider that the ideal running temperature. Running along the water to the rising sun was as beautiful as ever, even though one corner of the Harbor boasted a pretty nasty smell. That's beside the point, though.
It was a great way to welcome in February, though I can hardly believe it's already February! 44 days until the big day! I'm excited and a little anxious but looking forward to feeling a great sense of accomplishment. Now if Competitor would just release the course map...
January was a big month of running for me. It was definitely the most running I've ever done in a month, with a total of 126 miles. I also ran my fastest mile ever -- a 7:44, which was mile 7 of an 8-miler. I'm a bit of an accidental runner, i.e. I didn't do anything in particular to get that mile time other than decide I wanted to run fast. It's basically a fluke, but I'll take it. It also is evidence as to how mental running really is.
I'm scheduled for a total of 140 miles in February, and I'll begin tapering (decreasing mileage) at the end of the month. Mileage will be light in the two weeks of March leading up the marathon, and then I plan to sleep for the rest of the month.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Day 79 - A Run and Nothing Else
Today's scheduled run: 5 miles
Today's completed run: 5 miles
Pace: 8:30 avg
A good morning run. Although I don't normally run in the morning, I always love the feeling of finishing before 8 am. The day feels that much more productive, no matter what happens. It was another good time of thinking and praying and listening and finding silence even as rush hour was beginning to pick up.
It's a beautiful day in Baltimore. Thankfully, over the course of this blog and winter, I've been able to say that often. It'll be in the 60's today and tomorrow, barring a weird weather crisis. I'll take winters like this any time. It was chilly when I set out this morning, hovering at about 40 degrees, but the sunrise across the water made it well worth dragging myself out of bed, which is no small feat since I can't seem to get to bed before midnight these days.
Enough with the weather talk, though. I'm off to resume with the normal Tuesday crazy. Be well, blog readers!
Today's completed run: 5 miles
Pace: 8:30 avg
A good morning run. Although I don't normally run in the morning, I always love the feeling of finishing before 8 am. The day feels that much more productive, no matter what happens. It was another good time of thinking and praying and listening and finding silence even as rush hour was beginning to pick up.
It's a beautiful day in Baltimore. Thankfully, over the course of this blog and winter, I've been able to say that often. It'll be in the 60's today and tomorrow, barring a weird weather crisis. I'll take winters like this any time. It was chilly when I set out this morning, hovering at about 40 degrees, but the sunrise across the water made it well worth dragging myself out of bed, which is no small feat since I can't seem to get to bed before midnight these days.
Enough with the weather talk, though. I'm off to resume with the normal Tuesday crazy. Be well, blog readers!
Sunday, January 29, 2012
Day 77 - Nothing but the Sound of My Feet
Today's scheduled run: cross-training
Today's completed run: 5 miles
Pace: 8:33 avg, with a sub-8:00 for the last mile
I tacked on these miles after yesterday's run, which was a little weird because it's been years since I've run on a Sunday. Aside from a Sunday morning race, Sundays have always been rest days. Other than feeling strong, especially compared to yesterday, there was something really cool that happened.
I ran downtown, which is usually pretty busy, or at least carries with it the ambient noise of city life. Today, however, there were some points during my run that the only things I could hear were my breathing and my feet hitting the ground. Baltimore was absolutely silent, void of cars and other people. Much of this happened while I was running along the water. It was so serene and peaceful. Really, it was a gift. This run gave me the chance to think and pray and be silent. I'm so thankful for that.
Today's completed run: 5 miles
Pace: 8:33 avg, with a sub-8:00 for the last mile
I tacked on these miles after yesterday's run, which was a little weird because it's been years since I've run on a Sunday. Aside from a Sunday morning race, Sundays have always been rest days. Other than feeling strong, especially compared to yesterday, there was something really cool that happened.
I ran downtown, which is usually pretty busy, or at least carries with it the ambient noise of city life. Today, however, there were some points during my run that the only things I could hear were my breathing and my feet hitting the ground. Baltimore was absolutely silent, void of cars and other people. Much of this happened while I was running along the water. It was so serene and peaceful. Really, it was a gift. This run gave me the chance to think and pray and be silent. I'm so thankful for that.
Saturday, January 28, 2012
Day 76 - The Day Running Broke Me
Distance and pace are insignificant here, just know that I didn't meet my goal for today. But something important did happen.
Today was a beautiful day in Baltimore, and I was excited to run. I headed out toward the airport, where there is a paved trail that circles the airport grounds. It's about 12 miles around, so I planned to run the full circle and then do an out-and-back on a portion of it to get in my full miles. I was excited, too, because I'd be running with GU for the first time.
Other than a few sore muscles from yesterday's Pilates class, I started off feeling good about running. Still, I was struggling to keep target pace. In fact, I was struggling to stay in the 9:15-9:30 range, which is a good 15-30 seconds slower than where I normally run for long runs. This was disheartening and compounded by some lower GI issues and some side cramping. I pressed on. Then, everything sort of fell apart.
I felt like I didn't know where I was or that I'd taken a wrong turn. I was winded. I couldn't pick up my pace. I was lonely. I didn't want to be running anymore. Eventually, the melodramatic side of my brain convinced the rational side that I was lost (on a circular trail, mind you) and that I would never make it home, or at least that the sun would set before I could make it back to my car. And I was despondent.
But only for a moment, because I soon realized how ridiculous (and wrong) it was that I was so upset about not getting in the miles I'd planned. It would be okay to be disappointed about that, because it's kind of a bummer; but I felt like a failure. Not just a failure as a runner, but a failure. That was when I knew that somewhere in the last few weeks, especially since I'd started upping my mileage, running had become something I didn't want it to be -- a priority above the rest, a god, an idol. It began to define me, and I began to derive from it a sense of self-efficacy that should only come from an identity sure in the Lord.
I sat down on a bench, regrouped and prayed, and continued on. I was still feeling directionally challenged, but I was able to pick up my speed a bit. I thought I might be able to make it the full miles I'd intended, but then I realized that the point of my miserable run's lesson was that my greatest discipline and obedience be rightly placed, not misplaced toward running. I'm not to be mastered by running, because in the end it's just another thing that I do.
So, I stopped. And tomorrow, with my priorities better placed, I will finish the mileage.
Today was a beautiful day in Baltimore, and I was excited to run. I headed out toward the airport, where there is a paved trail that circles the airport grounds. It's about 12 miles around, so I planned to run the full circle and then do an out-and-back on a portion of it to get in my full miles. I was excited, too, because I'd be running with GU for the first time.
Other than a few sore muscles from yesterday's Pilates class, I started off feeling good about running. Still, I was struggling to keep target pace. In fact, I was struggling to stay in the 9:15-9:30 range, which is a good 15-30 seconds slower than where I normally run for long runs. This was disheartening and compounded by some lower GI issues and some side cramping. I pressed on. Then, everything sort of fell apart.
I felt like I didn't know where I was or that I'd taken a wrong turn. I was winded. I couldn't pick up my pace. I was lonely. I didn't want to be running anymore. Eventually, the melodramatic side of my brain convinced the rational side that I was lost (on a circular trail, mind you) and that I would never make it home, or at least that the sun would set before I could make it back to my car. And I was despondent.
But only for a moment, because I soon realized how ridiculous (and wrong) it was that I was so upset about not getting in the miles I'd planned. It would be okay to be disappointed about that, because it's kind of a bummer; but I felt like a failure. Not just a failure as a runner, but a failure. That was when I knew that somewhere in the last few weeks, especially since I'd started upping my mileage, running had become something I didn't want it to be -- a priority above the rest, a god, an idol. It began to define me, and I began to derive from it a sense of self-efficacy that should only come from an identity sure in the Lord.
I sat down on a bench, regrouped and prayed, and continued on. I was still feeling directionally challenged, but I was able to pick up my speed a bit. I thought I might be able to make it the full miles I'd intended, but then I realized that the point of my miserable run's lesson was that my greatest discipline and obedience be rightly placed, not misplaced toward running. I'm not to be mastered by running, because in the end it's just another thing that I do.
So, I stopped. And tomorrow, with my priorities better placed, I will finish the mileage.
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
Day 73 - Goodbye, Slump; Hello, Power
Today's scheduled run: 8 miles
Today's completed run: 8 miles
Pace: 8:25 avg
There are several important thingsyou need to know I need to remember about today's run:
1. It rocked.
2. I wore shorts. In January.
3. I hit a personal record (PR) for my mile time - 7:41 min. And I did it on mile 7.
4. I ate well all day leading up to the run.
5. I got enough sleep last night.
6. Matt Chandler's sermons on Ecclesiastes continue to rock and challenge me to think deeply. I listened to the second one today.
Numbers 2, 4, and 5 are a magical combination of wonderfulness (yup) that lead to numbers 1 and 3. First of all, running in shorts today made me realize that I may have been overdressing. Suiting up for winter runs is hard for me, because I spend most of winter being extremely cold. My internal thermostat is wonky; I wear leggings under my pants as soon as it gets to be 45 or below. This constant coldness likely has been leading me to wear too much while running for fear of being cold. Today, it was 48 degrees - the temperature where I never know what to wear. But it wasn't windy, so I went with shorts; and it was the best decision, as I kept a wonderful body temperature the whole time.
As for numbers 4 and 5, I know what you're thinking -- Duh! And you're right; these things are obvious to most people. If you eat well and sleep enough, your performance will improve. For some reason, I'm still learning this.
Number 1 is most important because, as of yesterday, I felt like I was in or heading into a slump. Apparently, I just needed some sleep and some fuel. As for number 3, well, it's just exciting. I've really enjoyed improving as a runner this year, but I don't have aspirations of being ridiculously fast. I don't have the body type (i.e., long legs) that runners who were clearly born to run possess. I'm okay with this; I run for distance, not for speed. Still, it's exciting to run a sub-8:00 mile, on mile 7 of 8, no less.
I needed today's run to propel me forward in training. We all have days where the run is miserable, but the days where the run is amazing significantly outweigh those. A run like today will carry me through several miserable runs in the future. (Please remind me of that after Saturday's 20-miler.)
Today's completed run: 8 miles
Pace: 8:25 avg
There are several important things
1. It rocked.
2. I wore shorts. In January.
3. I hit a personal record (PR) for my mile time - 7:41 min. And I did it on mile 7.
4. I ate well all day leading up to the run.
5. I got enough sleep last night.
6. Matt Chandler's sermons on Ecclesiastes continue to rock and challenge me to think deeply. I listened to the second one today.
Numbers 2, 4, and 5 are a magical combination of wonderfulness (yup) that lead to numbers 1 and 3. First of all, running in shorts today made me realize that I may have been overdressing. Suiting up for winter runs is hard for me, because I spend most of winter being extremely cold. My internal thermostat is wonky; I wear leggings under my pants as soon as it gets to be 45 or below. This constant coldness likely has been leading me to wear too much while running for fear of being cold. Today, it was 48 degrees - the temperature where I never know what to wear. But it wasn't windy, so I went with shorts; and it was the best decision, as I kept a wonderful body temperature the whole time.
As for numbers 4 and 5, I know what you're thinking -- Duh! And you're right; these things are obvious to most people. If you eat well and sleep enough, your performance will improve. For some reason, I'm still learning this.
Number 1 is most important because, as of yesterday, I felt like I was in or heading into a slump. Apparently, I just needed some sleep and some fuel. As for number 3, well, it's just exciting. I've really enjoyed improving as a runner this year, but I don't have aspirations of being ridiculously fast. I don't have the body type (i.e., long legs) that runners who were clearly born to run possess. I'm okay with this; I run for distance, not for speed. Still, it's exciting to run a sub-8:00 mile, on mile 7 of 8, no less.
I needed today's run to propel me forward in training. We all have days where the run is miserable, but the days where the run is amazing significantly outweigh those. A run like today will carry me through several miserable runs in the future. (Please remind me of that after Saturday's 20-miler.)
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Day 72 - Gotta Feed the Machine
Today's scheduled run: 5 miles
Today's completed run: 5 miles
Pace: 8:24 avg
I tried something new today: running during the two hour break between my classes. I have class from 9-12 and 2-5 on Tuesdays, and all last semester I struggled with knowing what to do with that in-between. It's just enough time and yet not enough. Because I couldn't drag myself out of bed to get my miles in before class this morning, and I knew I wouldn't have time between my second class and small group, I ran during the two hour break. This was a good idea and the weather was wonderful, but there were a few problems.
Even though campus is only a 10 minute walk from my house, the two-hour window wasn't enough time to walk home, gear up, run, cool down, stretch properly, shower, eat, and then leave for another class. I did everything in urgency mode, except for the run, which suffered because I was SO hungry. This is normally my lunch hour, after all. You know... the hour where I eat. So, push comes to shove I can use this window, but I don't plan on making a habit of it.
I did start listening to a new sermon series today on Ecclesiastes out of a church in Dallas -- The Village Church. I know that doesn't seem like a great topic to run to, seeing as the book essentially proclaims that everything under the sun is the same and meaningless; but the first sermon was great, and I expect the others will be, too. The pastor is witty but also drives his points home well and with much wisdom. I'm sure I look goofy chuckling while running, but I'm okay with that. It's nice to be stimulating my brain and heart and thinking about important things rather than just listening to bad pop music.
I'm already thinking about this weekend's 20-miler, and I'm getting nervous. People told me to find a training partner for long runs, but no one wanted to join me in running the marathon, so I've gone without. I am a total extrovert; I can only stand being with myself for about an hour before I get a little weird. I guess I'll make several of those sermons my running partners that day...
Today's completed run: 5 miles
Pace: 8:24 avg
I tried something new today: running during the two hour break between my classes. I have class from 9-12 and 2-5 on Tuesdays, and all last semester I struggled with knowing what to do with that in-between. It's just enough time and yet not enough. Because I couldn't drag myself out of bed to get my miles in before class this morning, and I knew I wouldn't have time between my second class and small group, I ran during the two hour break. This was a good idea and the weather was wonderful, but there were a few problems.
Even though campus is only a 10 minute walk from my house, the two-hour window wasn't enough time to walk home, gear up, run, cool down, stretch properly, shower, eat, and then leave for another class. I did everything in urgency mode, except for the run, which suffered because I was SO hungry. This is normally my lunch hour, after all. You know... the hour where I eat. So, push comes to shove I can use this window, but I don't plan on making a habit of it.
I did start listening to a new sermon series today on Ecclesiastes out of a church in Dallas -- The Village Church. I know that doesn't seem like a great topic to run to, seeing as the book essentially proclaims that everything under the sun is the same and meaningless; but the first sermon was great, and I expect the others will be, too. The pastor is witty but also drives his points home well and with much wisdom. I'm sure I look goofy chuckling while running, but I'm okay with that. It's nice to be stimulating my brain and heart and thinking about important things rather than just listening to bad pop music.
I'm already thinking about this weekend's 20-miler, and I'm getting nervous. People told me to find a training partner for long runs, but no one wanted to join me in running the marathon, so I've gone without. I am a total extrovert; I can only stand being with myself for about an hour before I get a little weird. I guess I'll make several of those sermons my running partners that day...
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Day 66 - Yawn
Today's scheduled run: 8 miles
Today's completed run: 8 miles
Pace: 9:03 avg.
After yesterday's fast 5.75-miler, I think my legs were a little sleepy today. Also, even though I thought I exceeded yesterday's training mileage by .75, I actually exceeded it by 1.75, because I was only supposed to run 4 miles. I don't know where I got 5 from, though that's the schedule for next week. Alas.
I really struggled with pace today. I couldn't keep it below a 9:00 for very long. Tiredness is one plausible explanation. Along with it was the whipping cold wind (25 mph down by the water) that seemed to always be blowing as a headwind. A blessed tailwind gave me 8:58 for mile 6, but that's the best I could do. Oh well; there's always tomorrow.
Today's completed run: 8 miles
Pace: 9:03 avg.
After yesterday's fast 5.75-miler, I think my legs were a little sleepy today. Also, even though I thought I exceeded yesterday's training mileage by .75, I actually exceeded it by 1.75, because I was only supposed to run 4 miles. I don't know where I got 5 from, though that's the schedule for next week. Alas.
I really struggled with pace today. I couldn't keep it below a 9:00 for very long. Tiredness is one plausible explanation. Along with it was the whipping cold wind (25 mph down by the water) that seemed to always be blowing as a headwind. A blessed tailwind gave me 8:58 for mile 6, but that's the best I could do. Oh well; there's always tomorrow.
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Day 65 - Dark and Rainy
Today's scheduled run: 5 miles
Today's completed run: 5.75 miles
Pace: 8:37 (avg)
I had to run this morning, rather than later in the day, because of a busy schedule today. I don't mind running in the morning in the summer, when the sun comes up at 6 am; but waking to run on a dark, cold, wet winter morning is not my idea of a good time. After a fervent internal debate, I got out of bed and headed out. I thought it was going to rain all day today, so I was pleased that it was just damp and cloudy, with some light rain toward the end of the run. Overall, I felt strong. I definitely came out of the gate too swiftly, running an 8:02 mile, even after slowing myself down. One day, I'm going to test myself on a mile and see if I can go sub-8:00. I think I can.
Now, I'm plum tuckered out, so I'm off to bed. One last note, though - the sun came out around noon and the afternoon was stunning. I also got out of my afternoon class early, which left me with plenty of time I could have used to run in the sun at a reasonable hour, rather than in the dark rain at an unreasonable hour. Story of my life.
Today's completed run: 5.75 miles
Pace: 8:37 (avg)
I had to run this morning, rather than later in the day, because of a busy schedule today. I don't mind running in the morning in the summer, when the sun comes up at 6 am; but waking to run on a dark, cold, wet winter morning is not my idea of a good time. After a fervent internal debate, I got out of bed and headed out. I thought it was going to rain all day today, so I was pleased that it was just damp and cloudy, with some light rain toward the end of the run. Overall, I felt strong. I definitely came out of the gate too swiftly, running an 8:02 mile, even after slowing myself down. One day, I'm going to test myself on a mile and see if I can go sub-8:00. I think I can.
Now, I'm plum tuckered out, so I'm off to bed. One last note, though - the sun came out around noon and the afternoon was stunning. I also got out of my afternoon class early, which left me with plenty of time I could have used to run in the sun at a reasonable hour, rather than in the dark rain at an unreasonable hour. Story of my life.
Monday, January 16, 2012
Day 64 - Yoga'd, Yogad, Yogaed, or Yogaded
I'm still searching for an alternative to the verb phrase "did yoga," but for lack of a sufficient substitute, I'll just tell you that I did yoga for the first time ever today. I've been so resistant to it for so long, but I know I need to work on balance to improve my running. No, not because I fall all the time, though I did fall during the first race I ever ran back in 2006. I've read that balance, along with core strength, can really help you improve in any type of athletic performance, so I'm giving it a shot.
I plan to take a Pilates class at the gym on Fridays, but I employed a Jillian Michael's DVD for my yoga workout today. I knew I could count on Jillian (yes, we're on a first-name basis) to get right to the exercises and steer clear of the meditation/"spiritual" sides of yoga. That's just what she did. At one point, she said some silly yoga term like "melt your heart into the floor," or something, and then laughed, saying, "Or, in plain English like the rest of us speak, stretch as far as you can." I appreciate that.
I have done her workouts before and always leave feeling challenged and encouraged by her. She's fun but also no non-sense. We'd definitely be friends in real life, but first I have to get some muscle so I could feel not-so-shrimpy next to her.
A few more times of doing it and I think I'll feel a bit more comfortable with the positions and transitions. Overall, I'd say it was a success, particularly because I know I worked muscles I don't typically use while running. I like this idea of using my own body weight for resistance, too. I look forward to reporting back about my first-ever Pilates class on Friday, too.
On an unrelated note, check out this drawing my step-mom sent me:
This is a portrait of our family that she drew with one of her clients. Can you guess which one is me? Haha! Love it. If I had Facebook, this would definitely be my profile picture.
I have done her workouts before and always leave feeling challenged and encouraged by her. She's fun but also no non-sense. We'd definitely be friends in real life, but first I have to get some muscle so I could feel not-so-shrimpy next to her.
A few more times of doing it and I think I'll feel a bit more comfortable with the positions and transitions. Overall, I'd say it was a success, particularly because I know I worked muscles I don't typically use while running. I like this idea of using my own body weight for resistance, too. I look forward to reporting back about my first-ever Pilates class on Friday, too.
On an unrelated note, check out this drawing my step-mom sent me:
 |
| Family portrait |
Day 63 - The Day I Loved Life
That title is a bit of a misnomer, as I love life on most days. Still, today was really a day where I was so happy to be alive, in Baltimore, knowing the people that I know.
My morning included some putzing (what a great word) around the house before church. Church was phenomenal. I'm so thankful for the community I've found there and the way the Lord is working. One time, I will tell you about it; but 12:40 am is not that time. Post-church, a handful of us headed over to Fells Point to eat at Tortilleria Sinaloa. I'd never been there before, but I will definitely be going back. It's totally legit, and I loved it.
By the time I stopped by the grocery store and then came home, I only had a short time to get some sort of cross-training in, so I got in 5 miles on the trainer. Not really a big deal, but it was something.
A friend from the DC-area arrived around 5:30 and after chatting we drove over to Fells Point to revisit Tortilleria Sinaloa. Yes, it was so good that I would eat there twice in one day. Much to my disappointment, it was closed. We didn't see anything else in Fells Point that caught our attention, so we headed over to Harbor East and stumbled upon Talara, where we feasted like kings on some amazing food. It was so good, in fact, that we ordered a second round of one of the dishes we got. So, if you live anywhere near Baltimore and you like to eat, I'd definitely recommend both of these places.
In short: awesome day, awesome people, awesome eating.
My morning included some putzing (what a great word) around the house before church. Church was phenomenal. I'm so thankful for the community I've found there and the way the Lord is working. One time, I will tell you about it; but 12:40 am is not that time. Post-church, a handful of us headed over to Fells Point to eat at Tortilleria Sinaloa. I'd never been there before, but I will definitely be going back. It's totally legit, and I loved it.
By the time I stopped by the grocery store and then came home, I only had a short time to get some sort of cross-training in, so I got in 5 miles on the trainer. Not really a big deal, but it was something.
A friend from the DC-area arrived around 5:30 and after chatting we drove over to Fells Point to revisit Tortilleria Sinaloa. Yes, it was so good that I would eat there twice in one day. Much to my disappointment, it was closed. We didn't see anything else in Fells Point that caught our attention, so we headed over to Harbor East and stumbled upon Talara, where we feasted like kings on some amazing food. It was so good, in fact, that we ordered a second round of one of the dishes we got. So, if you live anywhere near Baltimore and you like to eat, I'd definitely recommend both of these places.
In short: awesome day, awesome people, awesome eating.
Saturday, January 14, 2012
Day 62 - Don't Eat the Chocolate Lava Cake
Today's scheduled run: rest day
Today's completed run: 12.18 miles
Pace: 8:52 (avg.)
Technically, I was supposed to race a half-marathon tomorrow, according to my training plan; but I couldn't find any in the Baltimore/DC area. Plus, I wasn't really in the mood to cough up a bunch of money for another race. At least not right now. So, I planned to shift the 13.1 to a normal long-run-Saturday and make attempts to do it at a race pace.
I succeeded for the first 7 miles, but then everything fell apart. Well, that's how it felt; nothing really fell apart. However, my lower digestive system went on strike (TMI?), with no bathroom in sight. It is ill-advised in any city to knock on a random door to use a stranger's bathroom, so I wasn't about to do that. Unfortunately, my chosen route didn't really provide me with a viable option, so I stuck it out until 1 mile to go, at which point I had to stop for fear of internal combustion.
That's a bit of a disappointment, but my splits show a pretty good run, despite exploding insides. Still, I was a little bummed out when I got home. I kept wondering what I ate that affected me so poorly. I think it was the chocolate lava cake from Trader Joe's. Then I kept thinking, surely I could have just toughed it out and finished the mile. Yeah, maybe if I'd wanted to ruin my new fleece-lined running tights. (TMI again, sorry!)
Somewhere in the initial stages of my wallowing, I saw this tweet from Josh Cox, who ran in Houston today but didn't make it to the Olympic team. (Still, wicked fast and an amazing run.) The quote -- "How you think when you lose determines how long it will be until you win.” -GK Chesterton
Next weekend, I'm going to kill an 18-miler.
Today's completed run: 12.18 miles
Pace: 8:52 (avg.)
Technically, I was supposed to race a half-marathon tomorrow, according to my training plan; but I couldn't find any in the Baltimore/DC area. Plus, I wasn't really in the mood to cough up a bunch of money for another race. At least not right now. So, I planned to shift the 13.1 to a normal long-run-Saturday and make attempts to do it at a race pace.
I succeeded for the first 7 miles, but then everything fell apart. Well, that's how it felt; nothing really fell apart. However, my lower digestive system went on strike (TMI?), with no bathroom in sight. It is ill-advised in any city to knock on a random door to use a stranger's bathroom, so I wasn't about to do that. Unfortunately, my chosen route didn't really provide me with a viable option, so I stuck it out until 1 mile to go, at which point I had to stop for fear of internal combustion.
That's a bit of a disappointment, but my splits show a pretty good run, despite exploding insides. Still, I was a little bummed out when I got home. I kept wondering what I ate that affected me so poorly. I think it was the chocolate lava cake from Trader Joe's. Then I kept thinking, surely I could have just toughed it out and finished the mile. Yeah, maybe if I'd wanted to ruin my new fleece-lined running tights. (TMI again, sorry!)
Somewhere in the initial stages of my wallowing, I saw this tweet from Josh Cox, who ran in Houston today but didn't make it to the Olympic team. (Still, wicked fast and an amazing run.) The quote -- "How you think when you lose determines how long it will be until you win.” -GK Chesterton
Next weekend, I'm going to kill an 18-miler.
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Day 60 - Old Faithful
Today's scheduled run: 4 miles
Today's completed run: 4 miles (or 3.9998, if you consult Garmin's non-rounded- number)
Pace: 8:24 (avg)
I felt really strong today. Helping me along was the little guy on the left. In case you are actually technologically advanced and are unfamiliar with this small white thing, that is an original iPod Shuffle. Released January 11, 2005, this baby was all the rage when I got it, which I think was shortly after it's release date. I even have an armband made just for it. I guess if I was really cool I would have used the lanyard attachment that came with it, but I can only handle so much cool at once.
My family in NC returned the shuffle to me while I was home for Christmas, informing me that it no longer worked. I was skeptical. This is an Apple product after all; they don't break... ever. (Except for that one iPod touch I have that's only ever given me trouble, but that's not the point.) Anyway, back to the point - I occasionally enjoy running with music, and I've very much appreciated it during these last few runs, which I fear would have been sluggish and boring otherwise. However, I really hate running with my iPhone - it feels so big, and it doesn't ever seem to sit on my arm properly. Enter: Gen. 1 iPod Shuffle, which I was certain would work despite my family's statements that it is dead. Needless to say, I was right; and this little stick of an iPod has made the perfect running companion for me.
I'm all about technological advances. I love my iPhone, and I love my MacBook Pro; but I can honestly say that Old Faithful has carried the day better than the iPhone for running. I guess it's carried the day better than my MacBook, too. Could you imagine me trying to run with that?
Today's completed run: 4 miles (or 3.9998, if you consult Garmin's non-rounded- number)
Pace: 8:24 (avg)
I felt really strong today. Helping me along was the little guy on the left. In case you are actually technologically advanced and are unfamiliar with this small white thing, that is an original iPod Shuffle. Released January 11, 2005, this baby was all the rage when I got it, which I think was shortly after it's release date. I even have an armband made just for it. I guess if I was really cool I would have used the lanyard attachment that came with it, but I can only handle so much cool at once.My family in NC returned the shuffle to me while I was home for Christmas, informing me that it no longer worked. I was skeptical. This is an Apple product after all; they don't break... ever. (Except for that one iPod touch I have that's only ever given me trouble, but that's not the point.) Anyway, back to the point - I occasionally enjoy running with music, and I've very much appreciated it during these last few runs, which I fear would have been sluggish and boring otherwise. However, I really hate running with my iPhone - it feels so big, and it doesn't ever seem to sit on my arm properly. Enter: Gen. 1 iPod Shuffle, which I was certain would work despite my family's statements that it is dead. Needless to say, I was right; and this little stick of an iPod has made the perfect running companion for me.
I'm all about technological advances. I love my iPhone, and I love my MacBook Pro; but I can honestly say that Old Faithful has carried the day better than the iPhone for running. I guess it's carried the day better than my MacBook, too. Could you imagine me trying to run with that?
Friday, January 6, 2012
Day 54 - A Date with 16 Miles
Today's scheduled run: 0 miles (technically a rest day)
Today's completed run: 16.06 miles (the long run technically scheduled for tomorrow)
Pace: 8:55 (avg.)
I'm so excited about this run, for obvious reasons. I had the chance to explore new neighborhoods on this run, which is great. Baltimore isn't a gigantic city, and there are places you don't want to run, so mapping out 16 miles is no small task. Still, if your only reference for Baltimore is The Wire, I'm sorry. All of the things you see on that show do happen here, as well as in most other cities, but Baltimore has so much more to offer and enjoy than drug deals and homicides. What I love about running here is that there's always something to look at, which keeps it exciting and keeps my mind off the fact that I can no longer feel my legs. I also love that most people say hello to one another.
My run took me through downtown and out towards a fairly well-known park in the city (Patterson Park), which is just a few blocks southeast of Johns Hopkins Hospital. I'm pretty sure you've heard of that, no matter where you're from. I ran halfway around the park and headed south toward the water, ran a fairly long route along the water, and headed out to Ft. McHenry. I made the loop at the Fort and then headed home, past Ravens stadium. It was such a perfect day weatherwise, and I was glad to be out running and enjoying it. I also used my Nike hydration belt for the first time, which was great. In the past, I have run with a CamelBak, but for such a long run, it was nice to have water and Powerade available. I also felt a little more legit, which counts for something.
As I left this morning, I discovered that my Garmin 405 had been delivered, making me feel even more legit. However, I wasn't able to use it because I needed to get out the door, and it ships without a charge. I might take it for a short spin tomorrow morning, but that depends on whether I can get out of bed or not. Either way, I'm very excited to use it, whenever that happens. As an added bonus, it's green, which is a fun color. I can't really wear green, because it clashes with my complexion and makes me look ill; so I enjoy having accessories in green. I know you were wondering.
I'm already in bed, enjoying my heated mattress pad, which I've been thinking about all day. So, until tomorrow...
Today's completed run: 16.06 miles (the long run technically scheduled for tomorrow)
Pace: 8:55 (avg.)
I'm so excited about this run, for obvious reasons. I had the chance to explore new neighborhoods on this run, which is great. Baltimore isn't a gigantic city, and there are places you don't want to run, so mapping out 16 miles is no small task. Still, if your only reference for Baltimore is The Wire, I'm sorry. All of the things you see on that show do happen here, as well as in most other cities, but Baltimore has so much more to offer and enjoy than drug deals and homicides. What I love about running here is that there's always something to look at, which keeps it exciting and keeps my mind off the fact that I can no longer feel my legs. I also love that most people say hello to one another.
My run took me through downtown and out towards a fairly well-known park in the city (Patterson Park), which is just a few blocks southeast of Johns Hopkins Hospital. I'm pretty sure you've heard of that, no matter where you're from. I ran halfway around the park and headed south toward the water, ran a fairly long route along the water, and headed out to Ft. McHenry. I made the loop at the Fort and then headed home, past Ravens stadium. It was such a perfect day weatherwise, and I was glad to be out running and enjoying it. I also used my Nike hydration belt for the first time, which was great. In the past, I have run with a CamelBak, but for such a long run, it was nice to have water and Powerade available. I also felt a little more legit, which counts for something.
As I left this morning, I discovered that my Garmin 405 had been delivered, making me feel even more legit. However, I wasn't able to use it because I needed to get out the door, and it ships without a charge. I might take it for a short spin tomorrow morning, but that depends on whether I can get out of bed or not. Either way, I'm very excited to use it, whenever that happens. As an added bonus, it's green, which is a fun color. I can't really wear green, because it clashes with my complexion and makes me look ill; so I enjoy having accessories in green. I know you were wondering.
I'm already in bed, enjoying my heated mattress pad, which I've been thinking about all day. So, until tomorrow...
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Day 52 - Frozen Skin
Today's scheduled run: 7 miles
Today's completed run: 7.06 miles, because I took a wrong turn
Pace: 8:48 (avg.)
It was about 30 degrees when I set out today, which is colder than I'm normally willing to run in. Still, I couldn't bear the thought of 7 miles on the treadmill. The top of me was well covered - a skull cap, hat and hood to cover the head, a Nike cold weather shirt and sweatshirt for the core, and running gloves. The bottom of me, on the other hand, was not so well provided for. I was at a loss for what to wear, so I went with what I had - running tights. They are great tights, but I think I need a thicker pair (or maybe two at once?) for days like today. Upon arriving home, I had that obnoxious itch and redness all over my legs. I've always wondered why that happens, so I took to Google. Did you know that your skin can actually freeze? Or that you can be allergic to the cold? So interesting!
Post-run, I had the pleasure of dinner and a movie with a friend from school. Also included in there were some red velvet cupcakes. We watched True Grit, which is one of the best recently released films, in my opinion. Thank you, Coen brothers, for another incredible movie with lines: from, "I do not entertain hypotheticals. The world itself is vexing enough." -Col. Stonehill; to, "Ground's too hard. Them men wanted a decent burial, they should have got themselves killed in summer." - Rooster Cogburn
I also did some thinking today about the coming year. I'm not one for resolutions, and the idea of a bucket list doesn't quite appeal to me for some reason, but I'm beginning to entertain the idea of a 25-for-25 list. This year, on July 14, I will turn 25. I suppose a real 25-for-25 list would begin then and carry-on until July 14, 2013; but I don't like to do things conventionally. So, I'm going to make a list of 25 things I want to do this year (2012), the year I turn 25. More on this once I've completed the list. Who knows? Maybe I'll do this until I turn 85, and then I'll have to devise a list of 85 things to do... from my wheelchair.
Today's completed run: 7.06 miles, because I took a wrong turn
Pace: 8:48 (avg.)
It was about 30 degrees when I set out today, which is colder than I'm normally willing to run in. Still, I couldn't bear the thought of 7 miles on the treadmill. The top of me was well covered - a skull cap, hat and hood to cover the head, a Nike cold weather shirt and sweatshirt for the core, and running gloves. The bottom of me, on the other hand, was not so well provided for. I was at a loss for what to wear, so I went with what I had - running tights. They are great tights, but I think I need a thicker pair (or maybe two at once?) for days like today. Upon arriving home, I had that obnoxious itch and redness all over my legs. I've always wondered why that happens, so I took to Google. Did you know that your skin can actually freeze? Or that you can be allergic to the cold? So interesting!
Post-run, I had the pleasure of dinner and a movie with a friend from school. Also included in there were some red velvet cupcakes. We watched True Grit, which is one of the best recently released films, in my opinion. Thank you, Coen brothers, for another incredible movie with lines: from, "I do not entertain hypotheticals. The world itself is vexing enough." -Col. Stonehill; to, "Ground's too hard. Them men wanted a decent burial, they should have got themselves killed in summer." - Rooster Cogburn
I also did some thinking today about the coming year. I'm not one for resolutions, and the idea of a bucket list doesn't quite appeal to me for some reason, but I'm beginning to entertain the idea of a 25-for-25 list. This year, on July 14, I will turn 25. I suppose a real 25-for-25 list would begin then and carry-on until July 14, 2013; but I don't like to do things conventionally. So, I'm going to make a list of 25 things I want to do this year (2012), the year I turn 25. More on this once I've completed the list. Who knows? Maybe I'll do this until I turn 85, and then I'll have to devise a list of 85 things to do... from my wheelchair.
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