Three Things Thursday

1.  We have had a relaxing vacation week.  Ben had a basketball tournament, Siri has been to the barn and the little kids have played with their toys.  We have spent time with our friends and are now about to take down the tree and speed into 2012.  While I have enjoyed the week, I will be glad when they are all back in school and I am back on my schedule.

2.  I spent the morning on the computer writing down races in my calendar.  Some I am signed up for and some are just on my radar.  I have quite a few Half's on the list and a couple of 10k's and 5 K's.  My first race is the 1st Run 10K on January 1 in Lowell, MA.  I am excited to open the year with a 10K.  It is just what I need to get my running juices flowing.  I am going with 5 running besties.  Last year we did a 10K in Salsbury, MA which I am not going to name because it stunk.  This one is very well run and we are all excited.

3.  I also have spent a lot of the morning thinking about my goals for 2012.  I would love to run a sub 1:50 half marathon this year.  I know that in order to do that I need to drop a couple of pounds.  The last couple of months have not been great eating months for me.  I am hoping to start the year off right by keeping a food journal.  I have tried this before and it doesn't always work.  Maybe this will be the year that it does.

The Day Before Christmas Eve

I know, I have been a really bad blogger.  For some reason this holiday has made it impossible to get out of my own way.  I had one home sick for the week and a list a mile long so my computer took a back seat.

Last night we set out to wrap all of the kids presents.  We have an entire system.  Everyone gets a certain wrapping paper.  We wrap, listen to music and then make sure everything seems even.  I am sure that someone is going to complain.  We really tried to stay on a budget this year.  With 4 kids it can be hard, but I think that we managed and everyone got some nice things.  (Even the dog, the cats and the horse).

My running suffered a bit this week, but that is okay.  I am letting it be okay.  (Can you tell it really isn't okay).  Between a sick child, Christmas and my own fun foolishness on Monday night.  (Beer and wine don't mix).  I just let the running go.  I know I am running today and tomorrow and sometimes I meet my friend on Christmas.  Vacation week will have me on my treadmill and out for early mornings, but that is okay.  Back on the February training plan.

I will leave you with a picture of Nelly, our crazy Corgi.  Last night while we were wrapping presents we found a Santa suit that we had bought for her.  (I know, don't judge).  Well we put it on her and she kept it on long enough for us to take a picture.

I know, we have totally lost it.  Merry, Merry everyone!!

Running, Running, Running

We are up and running here.  Running to Christmas, running on the roads and running to various sporting and school events that 4 kids pile up.  My goal this week is to just keep up and make it to Sunday.  (I thought that it was make it until Saturday and then I realized we have a flag football double header and a cookie swap.)  I know that I am going to be up before 5 most mornings if I want to get my run in.  That is okay.  Sometimes I feel better if I am done and feel like I can conquer the day.

I also went out on a limb this week and sent an email to the owner of our local running store.  I let him know that I was interested in working at his store if he had any openings.  I never heard back from him which has me kind of bummed out.  My husband said he was proud of me for even putting myself out like that.  Believe me that is not my usual MO.  Now of course I am in that weird thought process that he would never hire me, I will never be able to go into his store again and why would I do something so crazy?

I guess what it comes down to is that I am ready to have a job, but I want to do something that I like.  I love running gear/stuff.  I love helping people shop for gear/stuff and I really like my local running store.  Fingers crossed that maybe I hear something from him even if it is a kind no thank you.

The Tree is Up

We (the 4 kids) decorated the Christmas Tree last night.  As you can see the ornaments all seem to be in one area.  That would be from the kids fighting over the step stool in front of the tree.  Usually by now I have rearranged and fixed the tree to my specifications, but I have one home sick again today and he seems to be in my hip pocket.
Decorating the Christmas tree with four kids, a dog and 2 cats can be a little bit of a trick.  T puts on the lights.  I sat on the couch and facilitated the job.  I know he really appreciated it.  I like the lights tucked in the tree so they look like they are illuminating from the inside.  T doesn't quite feel that way and just wants to get them up.  While he was putting the lights on everyone was pulling ornaments out of the box, trying to hang them and then of course one broke.  The one that broke....Ben's from Disney.  Who broke it?  Siri. Let's just say Wrestlemania broke out in the living room.
Every year I have a vision on eating cookies, decorating the tree, talking about how the home made ornaments.  Every year it turns into how fast can we get the tree up and then put everyone to bed.  Then I start questioning Trav about why we didn't get the tree on Saturday?  Maybe we should get a fake tree and we could put it up whenever we wanted?  You know the second guessing that occurs about everything around Christmas.
Oh yeah and one more thing.  Seriously Taylor Swift?  Why would you charge $60 for perfume that is probably being worn by a bunch of 6th graders?  And why is that the first thing on Siri's Christmas list?

Three Things Thursday

1.  My training plan for Half at the Hamptons started this week.  We are just going to follow the Hal Higdon intermediate plan for this race.  It is a simple, doable plan and we always seem to do well with it.

2.  Both boys are home sick today.  Their cough(s) kept me up the entire night.  I have one that is asthmatic so I think that he bough himself a trip to the doctor this morning.  It seems like all of the kids in our area are sick.  One class had nine kids out the other day.  Selfishly I need them to go to school so that I can get my Christmas stuff done.

3.  I am going to a running group on Saturday morning at our local running store.  Every Saturday morning they do a run through Mine's Falls in Nashua.  It is supposed to be beautiful and it is something different.  I have never been to a running group before so I am excited to check it out.

Reassessing Your Goals

I had a realization last night as I was falling asleep.  I was not going to hit 1000 miles this year.  I immediately became kind of sad.  I started trying to figure out how many miles I would have to run every day to hit 1000.  I talked to my H-- about it and then I just decided that I had to let it go. (not as easy as it sounds....I am still thinking about it.)   I am just coming back from an injury, there is not way that I can run 8-10 miles everyday through the month of December.  (I could, but that was my downfall last January when my body had finally had enough).  Instead I am going to focus on 2012.  I am going to focus on my races that I have scheduled.  I am going to focus on healthy training.  I am going to focus on cross training.  I have a feeling that I will surpass 1000 miles in 2012.

So here's to a good half marathon training plan and a good 2012!  Now if I can just make it through December.

21 Random Facts

My good friend G, from Neurosis of a Stay at Home Marathoner tagged me for this fun game, so I think that I will partake.  Here goes....

1.  I have 4 kids,  2 boys and 2 girls, which many find funny.  When I was younger I didn't even like to babysit.

2.  I was an Adolescent Health Nurse at Children's Hospital Boston.  I loved my job and was considered kind of cool by the teenage population.  My 11 year old tween doesn't think that I am so cool.

3.  I have run 2 marathons, 6 half marathons and many 5K's and 10K's.  My favorite distance is the half.  The training is manageable and I always feel great after.

4.  My fastest half is 1:51 and I would like to get a sub 1:50 this year.

5.  I live in the town that my husband grew up in.  We have lived here for 12 years.  That is the longest I have ever lived in one place or house.  There are many times over the past couple of years that I have begged to pick up and move.  Obviously, it is not working.

6.  I am lucky to have 3 "running besties" that run most of my runs with me.  We are close friends, talk about everything and adhere to the rule that nothing we talk about leaves our run.  We have solved many problems on those long runs.

7.  My parents were both runners and I have always considered myself a runner.  I would jump in and out of it in my 20's, but have considered running my favorite physical activity.

8.  I hate flying.  Really, I find it quite terrifying and spend the entire plane ride ready for it to crash.  My husband just shakes his head.

9.  I am a neat freak.  I don't like messes they make me anxious.  I am constantly wiping things down and cleaning up.  It drives my husband crazy and he constantly is reminding me that we have 4 kids, a dog and 2 cats.  I am trying to get better, but it is hard.

10.  I own A LOT of running skirts.  Most are from runningskirts.com and some from Lululemon.  I love running clothes and I like to look cute.  There is no need to look messy and/or frumpy while taking part in my favorite activity.

11.  My mother was from Louisiana and I was born there.  I also lived there for 2 years after college.  It was one of my favorite times in my life.  I sometimes think of returning there.  I have a lot of southern in me.

12.  I do not like to be cold.

13.  I think about what I want to do with my life now that my kids are all in school.  I was a nurse in my previous life, but don't know if that is the road I want to travel now.  I am hoping to figure it all out in the next year.

14.  I love vegetables, but don't like fruit very much.

15.  My husband and I laugh all of the time that we don't have much in common, but we are really two peas in a pod.  We seem to do well at doing our own thing while being near each other.  ex...I run on the treadmill in our room and he will work on his computer in our room too.

16.  I love music.  I used to play the piano and still enjoy sitting down and trying to figure out how to play songs.  My 10 year old seems to have a gift for music and I have fun listening to him play.

17.  I love football.  My boys play Pop Warner.  I love the LSU Tigers and watch the Patriots every weekend.  My husband says that I know more about football than most men.

18.  I love watching tv.  I can't help it.  Thank goodness I like to run so much or else I would be a really big couch potato.  If it is cheesy and silly I will be watching it.  (think Lifetime movies).

19.  I have a plan for everything and I like writing it out.  I have a Mom's Plan It Calendar and use different colors for different kids.  My runs are mapped out for the month and that is where I keep my grocery list.  I would be lost without it.

20.  I love going to bed at night.  In fact when I wake up in the morning I am already thinking of going to bed that night.  My mother claims that I have always been like that even in elementary school.

21.  I am not great at arts and crafts or cooking.  I feel like I am always trying, but it doesn't seem to go my way.  I guess that I will just keep on working.

There is my list.  I probably am supposed to tag people, but I think that a lot of people have already been tagged.  If you are interested in doing it, please do.  I would love to read more.

Blog, Blog Where Have You Gone

I have not been writing.  The month of November seems to have blown away.  Between our week long power outage, my getting pneumonia and a trip to Florida I seem to finally be getting back into the swing of things.

I was given the go ahead to run 2 weeks ago, but was sick enough that the though of putting on my running clothes made me sicker.  Pneumonia really sucks.  I had never wheezed before, never coughed up both of my lungs before or even run a fever for longer than one or two days.  I was definitely down and out.  I am finally feeling better and am going to attempt to run Feaster Five on Thursday.  I have not run in 5 weeks.  (Since the Chicago Marathon).  I am nervous.  I am worried about my hip, worried what kind of shape that my lungs are in and just hoping to make it through.....Fingers Crossed.

On another note Florida and Disney were great.  Seeing the castle through my 5 year olds eyes was truly amazing.  The big kids went on the "big rides" and Izzie saw a lot of shows.  We were blessed to be able to spend the week with my Mom and Dad and my two nieces.  My only negative....the kids' food.  Honestly, if they were to eat one more chicken finger I think that I was going to lose it.

Can you believe that Christmas is 5 weeks away?  Anything special that people want out there?
Happy Tuesday!!

Yikes....I'm Sick!

I seem to have caught the bug that is going around.  When I say it stinks it really stinks.  My H has been in California all week and with the time change we really have not heard from him.  Although, I don't know what hearing from his was going to do.  I have a fever.  I have a cough and I feel like I have been beaten up.

Last night I had chicken and rice soup with a toasted cheese sandwich.  Do you know what I did?  I used white bread.  Yes, I know it is so bad for me, but that is all that I wanted.  White bread and American Cheese.  If it is any consolation I hit it in the pantry and I did not give it to the kids.  (Don't know why I felt I needed to add that.  I think that I am becoming delusional with my fever.)

Advil and DayQuil were my friend today.  I also stopped at my MIL's and got a Mucinex before my ART therapy because I thought that it would help.  No luck.
The worst part of the day is that I got the go ahead to try 3 miles on my treadmill.  My new Fuchsia Mizuno's arrived and just the thought of getting on the treadmill is stressing me out.  My mother told me to NOT do it,  hadn't I read the Runner's World article about running while sick?   and that I better cool and wait until the weekend.  (former runner mom:)
So today I am getting the kids off to school and I am supposed to get my haircut.  I feel crappy, but I need my haircut.  I had let it grow out for Chicago and now I need a change.  Please say a prayer that I make it out the door.
Happy Thursday:)

Marathon Stalking

I have spent the last 3-4 hours stalking marathon runners.  I had friends doing halves today and friends doing fills.  There is nothing like stalking races.  I love watching paces etc...I am really into the technical aspect of it.  I have to tell you it makes me want to plan a new race, get a training plan and get going.  Unfortunately,  I don't think that is in the cards right now, but hopefully by the first of the year.  I have an ART appointment tomorrow and I am hoping that I can start a little running.  I have a brand spankin' new pair of Saucony Triumphs that I am dying to try out.
Tonight is Trick or Treating in our town.  Not thrilled.  I am a total bahumbug when it comes to this stuff.  I don't like Halloween as it is and the fact that we have dragged it out a week is enough to send me over the edge.  If I was to tell the truth Travis and I have been trying to talk the kids' out of it all week.  It's not working;)  Now, for a little nap before 6 pm and the madness that will ensue.

Dear Warren Kids

Dear Siri, Ben, Andy and Izzie,

After spending 4 blissful (wink wink wink) "snow days" with you I wanted to let you all know a couple of things that  have been thinking about since you are ALL back at school today.

1.  You can and ARE allowed to flush the toilet.  I swear you will not be flushed down with the pee/poop. I am only telling you this because the aquarium like smell that I found in your bathroom this morning really grossed me out.

2.  All of the Halloween candy has been THROWN AWAY!!!  Siri, seriously the candy wrappers that I just found in your bedside table make me want to scream.  If you don't have cavities at your dentist appointment next week I will be surprised.  And when you do have cavities I will NOT feel bad for you.

3.  Please do not ask me one more time "Can we eat out?"  We had to basically eat out for 4 days in a row. We will be incorporating a lot of green into our diet this weekend.

4.  Just because I don't want to watch another episode of "Good Luck Charlie" does not mean that I am a mean Mom.

5.  Yes, I am glad that you are all at school today.  I am having lunch with one of my Besties  and going to the running store to look at the new Saucony Triumphs.

6.  I do LOVE you guys SO MUCH!  The 4 of you bring so much to my everyday life but, absense makes this heart grow fonder.  Remember how excited I will be to see you at 3 pm and how excited you will be to see me.  (Right Siri?)

XOXOXO,
Mum!

13 Inches of Snow....in October

We are hunkered down in a hotel in beautiful downtown Manchester right now.  We were the lucky ones who got over a foot of snow on Halloween weekend.  No school for the next two days and no Trick or Treating tonight.  I have some sad kiddos.  Nothing worse than no Halloween if you are under the age of 12.  It has been postponed until next Sunday.
Needless to say my eating has not been great and there was a line with a sign up to use the fitness center.  I am getting a little stressed.  I had all but given up on Diet Coke and have had three today.  I am trying to roll with it, but I am definitely not good at that.
I am hoping that we are back home by tomorrow and all will be well.

And it Looks Like....

Another week of swimming.  I saw my "witch doctor" today.  My quad is still hurting and now he thinks he is working through the layers.  He mentioned a lot of other hip things (TFL) and thinks that I just need to stick with the plan.  I know he is right.  I should have listened to him in March when he was trying to tell me all of this.  So.....I will keep doing what he tells me, keep swimming and try not to be jealous of all of the races that people are doing.  I will also try to stop having evil thoughts when I see people out running or my husband on my treadmill.  I am hoping that by December I will be back.  I have a half marathon that I want to run at the end of February.
As per usual....Fingers Crossed!

3 TT ....the Swimming Edition

1.  After Chicago I was having quad pain, hip pain and butt pain.  I saw my ART therapist on Monday.  Seems like it is my sciatic nerve getting caught in my hip and into my quad.  Oh bother....no running:(  But I get to SWIM.  I know my running friends.  Don't be jealous.  There is nothing like hopping in the pool and swimming.  Okay I am being sarcastic.  I really don't like swimming, but I need to do it and I am just going to do it with a smile on my face.  Say a prayer that the next 4 weeks don't do me or my family in.

2.  I am already starting to look at races for next year.  (Isn't that what runners do when they are hurt.)  I see a lot of halfs that I am interested in and I am thinking of finally conquering a sprint tri.  (Nothing crazy.)  I am afraid of my bike so this will be a great test for me.  Ebony and I need to hit the streets of Amherst.

3.  In food news we are really focusing on healthy eating around here.  Travis is down 10 pounds and his blood pressure has dropped already.  We have cut most of the meat out of our diets.  I am definitely not ready to go vegan, but I am not feeling like I need meat on a daily basis.  We are trying out new foods, new cook books and actually having a good time.  Now if I could just get him on the treadmill....

Happy Thursday!

3 TT

1.  Travis seems to be on the road to recovery.  He got up and showered and went to work with his Dad today.  We took his blood pressure and it was still quite high.  He doesn't seem to understand why.  It is hard for me to just say, "dude, it has probably been high for a while!"  I am trying to be supportive.  I get his food organized, keep track of his meds and write down his BP's.  Funny it feels like I am working again:)  (I was an adolescent health nurse in my former life).  I am hoping for him to make a huge life change at this point.
2.  On making changes I am going to try to cook 2-3 vegetarian meals a week.  We don't eat a lot of meat anyway, but I am hoping to incorporate more vegetables and grains into our diet.  Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.  I am feeling kind of stuck.
3.  I was hoping to run today but woke up with hip pain and quad pain.  I went to spin yesterday and felt great.  Tomorrow is rowing machine and swim.  I am also hoping to start lifting again.  The witch doctor can't see me until next week so I am just going to keep on keepin' on.  Instead I cleaned my entire house which was super cathartic.  Nothing like scrubbing a bathroom to get your stress out!
Happy Thursday!!

A Funny Story

We have had a little bit of stress this week.  On Monday evening my husband called to let me know that his coworker was taking him to the hospital.  He was short of breath, sweaty and having chest pain.  But...I was not to worry as "my dad will be there at 6 so that you can go to your meeting."  Really....I think that I will go to the hospital my friend.
Off I went at 6 to find Travis in a hospital bed getting a dose of Nitro (chest pain, dilates your blood vessels) and telling me he thinks it is nothing.  Then a second dose and a dose of Morphine.  After the morphine he kept saying, "should my lips be numb or am I really having a heart attack?"  The nurse just laughed and then I laughed.  I then threw in a quick, "hey do you think that I could order those new running shoes I have been eyeing?"  He laughed, the nurse laughed and he replied, "always a runner first, huh?"
Long story short.  He has high blood pressure and high cholesterol.  He is 39 years old and a bit heavy and is now on blood pressure medicine.  I am sad for him, but also know that he can change his ways.  He is not happy with me or the doctors, but I would like to have a husband for a while.  The idea of taking care of these 4 crazies by myself would be a little bit overwhelming.  Send some positive thoughts my way please.  I have a feeling this is going to be a loooonnnggg haul.
P.S.  I ran 3 miles the other day and felt really good.  Going to spin this morning and seeing the "witch doctor" tomorrow.

Here's The Skinny...Chicago 2011

I am going to try to keep this post to the highlights of my day.  Believe me you could write about A LOT of stuff that happens over a 5 hour race and I don't want to bore you.  I will tell you the day started out with a lot of promise.  We were up right at 5:30.  We had breakfast, had some coffee got dropped off pretty close to the start and even watched the sunrise.  There were many people.  ( I think close to 40,000).  We hopped into our coral at 7 am and the race went off at 7:30.

The first 5 K was uneventful.  We were not going very fast but it was really crowded.  We were (I have 2 other friends that I run with.) close together at this point when out of the corner of my eye I saw my friend go down.  Her foot caught on the grate of a bridge and she fell landing right on her knee, shoulder, head etc...She kept going though and at that point we started separating a bit.  I had my head set on and was determined to do my own thing.

At mile 5 I had planned to eat my chews.  I took a couple and shoved them in my belt.  About 2 minutes later I went to grab a few more and I realized they had fallen out.  I stressed for a minute, but I had brought some granola bars so knew that I had something if I needed it.  I also watched people peeing all over the trees and started laughing to myself.  Totally gross, but for a minute realized how lucky men were that they could just pee that way.  Oh well on I went.

Mile 9 was my downfall.  I don't know what happened.  All I remember was feeling a ping in my hip and a pull and then a tightness in my quad.  I stopped for a minute and stretched and then started running again.  It hurt.  It was not hurt like someone stabbing me, it was a weird, intense pressure from my hip to my quad.  I knew at that point I was in a little bit of trouble, but there was no way I was quitting.  I had already bought a Chicago Nike sweatshirt that I needed to wear....on I went.

The next 3 hours dragged on forever.  I will not lie at mile 18 and until 19 I was definitely a little teary eyed.  I wanted to call my husband at one point, but honestly what was I going to say.  I received a text from him saying "Your crazy....but I love you:)"  It was at that point that I realized that my running buddy had to stop at mile 13 and was on the medical van.  She could not put weight on her leg at that point and the MD made her stop.  We are still waiting to see what is going on with it.

Finally at mile 20 something clicked.  I could not run fast, I was still running/walking but it was like I was on a cloud.  (my mother said I was either dehydrated and delirious or on a serious runners high).  I knew that I was going to finish and I was going to enjoy these last 6 miles if it killed me.  I smiled, I high fived people and I chatted with some other skirt girls who were running by.  It was seriously hot at this point, close to 80.  I took ice and stuck it down my shirt and realized I might be a bit chafed in the front, but I kept going.  Finally I saw the finish and it was wait for it.....up a hill.  WTF... there are no hills in all of Chicago, but they have one for the finish.  I ran up it and crossed the line.  I have never been so glad to put a medal around my neck in my entire life.

There were water stops every 1.5 miles up until mile 20.  Where there weren't "marathon" water stops, fitness clubs, churches etc... were giving out full bottles of water.  I am telling you this town LOVES this marathon.  It was like a big party.  I have spectated Boston many times, but Chicago takes the cake!  Every "town" that you went into was so well supported.  At one point when I was in Boys Town and they had Lady Gaga playing and people cheering and hugging etc...I couldn't stop smiling.  Just so fun.  And maybe that is the take away here.  Did my race go as I had planned?  NO WAY!  but in the end I did it.  And that is a lot more than a lot of people can say that they did on Sunday.  Oh and my dad told me not to feel bad.  That 15,000 people finished after me.....gotta love Big Mike.

Happy Wednesday!

Chicago Marathon 2011

If I was not still so tired I would write a long post about the Chicago Marathon.  It took me over 5 1/2 hours.  My hip died at mile 9 and I did the walk/run for the next 17 miles.  It was long, it was hot, but I have to tell you Chicago is one cool city.  They totally get behind their marathon and I loved that.  So, more to come in the next couple of days and maybe even a new plan.
Happy Tuesday!

Important Information

Last night we received important information from the Chicago Marathon peepes about the temps on Sunday.  Looks like it is going to be in the 70's (I saw 80's) so they wanted to give us some advice....This was my favorite:

Plan to adjust your pace for the weather. The increasing temperature will require more of your body’s energy and resources to maintain normal function, so a slower pace than originally planned is recommended in order to get you to the finish line without overheating. Oh crap....there goes my BQ;) Have a super weekend everyone.  I will see you on the flip side.

Kids, Grades and Making Your Mom Crazy

I would write some great running post, but I am tapering for Chicago this weekend and I ran a wonderful 3 uneventful miles today.  My right quad was a bit tight, but I think it is going to be okay:)

What else is going on around here?  Well school is in full swing and the kids have definitely hit that "it is October let's be lazy" that happens here every year.  My 6th grader seems to be cruising through which is making me a bit uneasy.  I keep arguing with my 5th grader, who reminded me that he has nothing less than a 93 on every test this year so "back off!"  (Really...did he just say that?)  My 2nd grader keeps telling me how hard 2nd grade is....(okay then why are you finishing your homework on Monday nights for the entire week?) and my 5 year old still loves school and has no homework.  School is hard, I get it. I also know that I put pressure on my kids to do well.  There are times when my husband (definitely more laid back) tells me to back off and let them figure it out.  My biggest problem I feel like if they don't do well it is a reflection on me.  I know not a great way to be but that is how I am.  I tend to be a bit of a perfectionist and there are times when I am looking for that from them.  I am going to practice taking a step back and hope that all goes well.

Chicago is 4 days away...I am having hard time believing it, but am super excited!  Chitown here we come!

The Final Countdown

Yes the final week is here.  While I feel like I have been tapering for Chicago for close to 3 weeks it is hard to believe that it is right around the corner.  I have a few short runs planned for this week and then we hop on the plane Saturday morning.  I am not going to lie I am nervous.  My training was hampered by random injuries, summer training was tough and I have not always felt great about my direction but I know I have it in me to do well.  I have set no huge goal for myself (maybe a little PR goal, but that is okay).  I do know that I am going to have fun, run my heart out and give it my all.

Fingers crossed.....

3TT....I CAN RUN!

1.  This morning I was allowed to hit my treadmill for 5 glorious. flat, slow miles.  It felt so good to get my running sweat on.  Don't get me wrong.  The eliptical is fine and all, but it definitely leaves a lot to be desired.

2.  I wore my new clover RunningSkirt this morning.  I definitely screwed up and ordered it a size to big.  I remember in past they had something on the website about ordering the athletic skirt a size down, but I thought the sizing had changed and there was no sizing info on the site.  I ended up just rolling it down, but now I am freaking out because I ordered the Paisley one in the same size and that is what we are wearing for Chicago.  Trying to figure out if I just need to spend the money on the smaller size or just roll the waste down.  Thoughts??

3.  I lost 2 pounds this week.  No idea how, but I am definitely psyched.  Nutrition is what I am missing right now with my running and I am hoping to get that taken care of after Chicago.  I am hoping to enlist the help of a nutritionist in the Portsmouth area.  I would love for someone just to spell it out for me.  I am definitely better with a plan.

5 Miles to Nowhere

Tomorrow I am allowed to get on my treadmill and run 5 miles.  Slow miles with no incline.  I left my ART therapists office with the biggest smile on my face.  His secretary told me that I looked like I won a million dollars.  I felt like I won a million dollars.  We also talked about my future running, whether I would run another marathon and my plans for 2012.  I don't know what direction I will be taking in the next 12 months, but I know I have big plans.  Stay tuned.....

It's Official....I Am Hurt

I'm hurt.  There it is.  I said it.  I met with my ART therapist yesterday morning and he said it too.  He also said that he is "band-aiding" me in order to get through Chicago.  That if I wasn't 15 days away that he might pull the plug.  That he thinks my calf and shin issues are a result of my hip issues.  That after Chicago I am shut down.  There is no running.  That I need to learn to love my bike and the pool for a while and then we will start from scratch.  My response ranged from silent tears running down my face to a full fledged "cry out" in my friends office.

Right now the eliptical is going to be my best friend so that I don't lose any fitness.  I will see B.  2 times a week until the marathon and then we will go from there.  My spirits are down.  I am definitely anxious and of course now can't stop looking up races for next year.

So, I am off to the gym right now.  I'm going to hang on the eliptical before I pick up the kiddos and then go from there.  Only thing is I don't know where "there" really is.

OH CRAP!!!

At 6 am the alarm went off and I hopped out of bed.  I am trying to figure out if the hop out of bed did me in or if honestly I was already done in.  My hip, my calf and my achilles were screaming.  Seriously? (as my 5 year old would say.)  Yes, seriously.  I immediately started thinking about my long run today.  "Okay, let's walk downstairs and see if I feel better in a few minutes." and my favorite,   "It must be my 38 year old body rebelling against me."  (that seemed a bit far fetched and if you are wondering yes I was talking to myself.)  I proceeded with my morning, making lunches, getting people ready for school and then at 8 am I made the call.  I was not running today.  My body is telling me to SLOW it down.  That is has to make the next 18 days until Chicago and I have to reel it in.

Now I am not going to lie.  I started to cry.  (My running bestie noticed the salt stain on my face.)  I think I needed that few minutes of frustration and anger.  Honestly, my marathon training last year was 100% flawless.  I was knocking off long runs left and right, sometimes 2 runs a day with no problems.  I ran my 1000 miles in 8 months with no problems.  This year I have been hurt and run about 750 miles total.  If I had to answer truthfully this is not the year I expected on January 1.

So now my plan is to run every other day until the marathon.  6 miles tomorrow 8 on Saturday morning and then a couple of 10's thrown in next week.  I know it will be fine.  I know what I have to do.  I just have to allow myself to get there.

The Last Long Run

Tomorrow morning is my last long run of this marathon training gig.  It will be my second 20.  Our plan was to do 3 20's but with injuries etc...I think that 2 is my limit.  I am nervous for some reason.  It seems silly.  I had a great 20 miler last week.  I was definitely slow in the end, but heck it was a Wednesday morning.  I have definitely put a lot of miles on this body training.  I have spent part of the year injured and even a little unmotivated at points.  The summer was tough for me.  Training with the kiddos at home was hard.  The heat was well...HOT this summer and there were times where I didn't want to be held to a training plan.  The flip side....I love running.  I love running with my friends and without and I am so EXCITED to run Chicago.
We have our tickets.  We are staying with my friend Gail's brother.  He has a 4 bedroom condo 6 miles from the start.  I have been thinking about my outfit.  (lulu skirt or running skirt).  I am running in my Saucony's and well...I guess that is it.
So for now I am going to take in the taper....because you know what is coming after Chicago?  I will give you a hint.....The Friendliest Marathon....

3 Things Thursday

1.  My laptop is back from the shop.  Trav keeps trying to show me all of these great things the touch pad can do now and I just keep complaining.  It seems to have a mind of it's own and I am now having to teach myself how to use my computer again.  I have tried to do a couple of things with it today and keep getting frustrated.  Believe me I am pretty computer savy and it takes a lot to throw me over the edge, but today is the day it is going to happen.  Who knew the first 5 day week of school would be the end of me?

2.  I just ordered 2 new RunningSkirts and a top for my birthday.  My birthday is 3 weeks away, but Travis said to order them.  I showed them to him just so he could see what he was getting me.  I'm good like that:) When he says this is my birthday present do you think I will get any other treats?  hmmmm....something to ponder.

3.  My running besties and I ran our 20 miler yesterday.  3:22 was our time.  I will definitely take it.  The best part of the run was when we passed the golf course in town for the second time and a kid playing golf looked at us and said, "You girls have been running for a long time....like 3 hours.  Aren't you tired?"  We just shook our heads and laughed.  We knew we were close to being finished and I think that we were delirious.  I treated myself to a Coke after.  Boy, did that taste good.  I definitely needed some sugar at that point.  One more big run and then the taper is on for Chicago.

Well....When She's Not Hurt

"Well, when she's not hurt."  That is how my husband described my life as a runner last night to a couple we were out to dinner with.  Believe me....I think the ice cold smile that I gave him let him know that I was not happy.  Have I been hurt this year?  Sure....I put a lot of miles on this body.  Do I get better and keep on going?  Yep!  What else can you do?  Yet, it made me think of what I look like in the eyes of my non runner husband.

He has no qualms about telling me he doesn't want to run...he has no interest.  He was a football player and lacrosse player in high school and college and now coaches both sports.  He did not like to run.  The rumor that is still talked about is that he had a buddy that picked him up everyday with the lacrosse team had to do their 2 mile running route before practice.  I have tried many times to get him interested in running.  "let's do a 5K together!"  "doesn't that couple look so happy together?"  as they are out for their run.  ( I actually stopped saying that though because I like that he stays home with everyone on the weekends:)  "Doesn't seeing the treadmill in our room make you want to jump on it."  My mother finally told me to cut it out.  "Rene', you can't always make somebody passionate about what you are passionate about."

It's funny my parents were a running relationship.  They got up every morning at 4 to run their 6 mile route.  They went to races together on the weekends.  They planned trips around certain races.  I think that I always thought that I would marry someone like that, but it just wasn't meant to be.

Long story short.  I asked him why he said that.  His reply, "Why did I say what?"  Exactly, he had moved on from the conversation and so should I.  I just have to remember that my non runner husband doesn't get it anymore than I get football coaching.  And maybe that's what makes it work.

Happy Saturday!

Do I still Have a Blog?

Oh boy....I have not been very good on keeping up with my blog.  With the kids heading back to school, my mom was visiting and a sick dog.  (I know, I know, but she was in the doggy hospital for 3 days...)  Writing took a back seat.  I did start and stop a couple of posts, but couldn't really get it out.  Oh well....the kids are back in school, I am back to running and the dog is home so maybe I can get back on track.

I am slowly ramping my mileage back up.  I ran 3 outside on Sunday and a little over 7 outside yesterday.  I felt good, a little bit of tightness in my calf. I came home and used my Tiger Stick on it, then put the boys to work on massaging my calf.  Those little buggers have great hands.  Can I just quickly mention the humidity up here.  It is bad or rather was bad.  It is now raining and a little chilly outside.

I meet up with Dr. Looney today and am hoping to finish up my plan for Chicago.  It is definitely going to be a different race for me.  I am going in to enjoy it and probably not race it.  Let's say a long training run.  My 2 besties get it and I have already told them to go along without me.  My first marathon was 4:32 and I am hoping to beat that, but I truly will be fine with whatever happens.

Fingers crossed.....

Just a quick post ....3 TT

1. I am allowed to run 5 miles this weekend. ART has been my friend. My calf is healing and I am feeling more positive everyday.
2. I bought my plane tickets to Chicago today. I guess it's go big or go home.
3. The kiddies went back to school yesterday. The mom's in town had a little spring in their step. Here's to getting back on a routine.

A Little Update

Good Morning!  After a good cry at my witch doctor's office, a little ice and a good night's sleep I am feeling better this morning  My calf still hurts and I am not able to run today I am trying to take it all in stride.

I saw Dr. Looney (my ART therapist) at 2 pm yesterday and started to cry the minute I walked in the door. He obviously get a lot of crying athletes because he smiled and took it in stride.  When I told him I thought that I wasn't a marathoner he started laughing and reassured me that he thought that I was a marathoner,  that I need a couple of days off and then he went to work.  His diagnosis.... a few little tears in my calf.  The plan...some ice and rest and then if I feel up to it 4 FLAT miles on the treadmill this weekend.  Fingers crossed that it will be better soon.  Chicago is 7 weeks away.

It looks like my area of NH might be getting a big hit from Hurricane Irene this weekend.  I will be spending the day trying to get the pool stuff in the pool house.  Hopefully my bum leg doesn't hold me back to much.  I told Trav that he was in charge fo the Lax goal and backboard.  I think that he is wondering where it is all going to go.  Siri was supposed to return home on Sunday with my mother, but it looks like they will be back on Tuesday.  There first day of school is on Wednesday.  This should be a great transition.

Happy Friday!  If you are on the East Coast stay safe!

Three Things Thursday....feeling sorry for Myself edition

1.  The day started with such promise.  A good nights sleep, a good fueling breakfast and my friends arriving for our 16 mile run.  It turned out to be not so great.  At mile 8 something went in my right calf, a small popping sound I would say.  We ran to my friends house, tried to massage it and use biofreeze and by mile 10 I was on the phone with Travis to come and get me.  He found me on the side of the road waiting.  I will admit a little teary eyed.
2.  I got home and immediately called my ART therapist, Dr. Looney.  A few more tears and his secretary said that he would see me at 2.  I think the tears are what got me in.  It is usually a couple days wait....(or maybe somebody cancelled.)
3.  The doubt is creeping in.  Is Chicago even an option anymore?  Do I keep training skip Chicago and just head for Richmond?  Do I give in and say maybe marathon training is not for me and I will stick to half marathons?  I just don't know.  What I do know is that my calf hurts and I am frustrated.

So anyway, I am letting it all out.  I am feeling sorry for myself now and hoping by tomorrow I will have happy news to report.

Falmouth Road Race

This weekend I ran the Falmouth Road Race with 11,000 of my closest friends.  What a race!  It was incredible.  The volunteers, the people lining the sides of the road, the music, I can't even begin to tell you. If there is one race that you do in New England this is the one.
The race is a point to point race.  You are bussed or ferried to Woods Hole and then run to Falmouth.  The scenery is incredible.  The first 2 miles are somewhat uphill.  You then come around a corner and you are on the beach.  The beach was the most serene part.  The sound of the ocean was so soothing.  After about 2 miles on the beach you come into town.  What an amazing feeling.  There were people everywhere.  Bands playing, people handing out water (and beer:) and a couple of Grateful Dead bands.  I was definitely energized by the crowd support.  My legs just started moving faster and for miles 5 and 6 I was right on target.  The last 1/2 mile is uphill.  I felt like I was on Cloud 9 and finished strong.  1:00 Garmin time, 1:00:59 chip time.  Not complaining....
Now....this was New Balance's first year sponsoring the race.  There were no shirts this year, you had to buy it.  I will say that this seemed kind of silly.  I still wear my original Falmouth Road Race shirt and was bummed that you had to shell out $20 for a cotton t shirt.  (I did, it was a pretty raspberry color.)  There also were problems with the busses I guess.  I had no problem.  I got on the bus at 7:30, made it to Woods Hole and even had time to go to Mass.  If you have 11,000 runners and you show up to get on the last bus at 8:45 you might have to wait a while for a bus.  Just my opinion.
All in all I had a great day!  A great lunch in Falmouth after and a quick visit to my friends cupcake store.  Yay Summer races!!!

Three Things Thursday...Falmouth Road Race

1.  I am running in my 2nd Falmouth Road Race this weekend.  My first one was in 2005.  I ran it in between Andy and Izzie.  It was hot and humid, but the race was beautiful.  The people were awesome and it all in all was a great race.  I am definitely excited.  Outfit picked out, I am picking up my number tomorrow and am going to check out the expo.  I don't know how long that I will be there due to having the 4 kids with me and my MIL is coming, but it is going to be fun none the less.  We are getting cupcakes after at my friends cupcake store.  The kids are over the moon.
2.  I am hoping to run it in a little over an hour.  My 10K last weekend was 55 minutes and I would love to be at an hour, but I don't know if that is happening.  On my long run this morning my hip started bothering me at about mile 6.  I pushed through to mile 11, but I am hoping it is just tight.  I will call my ART therapist tomorrow am to try to get in next week.
3.  They are saying it is supposed to rain.  Rain on the Cape in August usually = humidity.  Fingers crossed it is not going to be to bad.  I am NOT good in humidity.
Have a great weekend everyone....

Wordless Wednesday

It's raining and I overslept....this is where I will be for the next hour.  Happy Wednesday!

Beach to Beacon

Saturday morning found my friend Gail and me up at 6 am for the ride to Cape Elizabeth, ME to take part in the Beach to Beacon 10K.  The race was started by Joan Benoit Samuelson, you might know her, she won the gold in LA in the 84 Olympics and she is from Cape Elizabeth.  We arrived and jumped on the shuttle to the start.  I was feeling good.  I had absolutely no expectations.  I am running the Falmouth Road Race next weekend so I was not going to do anything crazy.
The gun went off at 8:15 and it took us 3 minutes to get to the start.  We took off, the first mile was spent dodging people who started to close to the start and now couldn't keep the pace, we were surprised when we looked at our garmins and were at about an 8:50 pace.  Mile 2 is UPHILL.  It was nothing crazy, but it lasted a long time, then mile 3 was downhill.  I think it is about mile 3 that you go through the little center of town.  It was so moving.  2 firetrucks had the American Flag hanging over the road and everyone was cheering.  It definitely picked us up and we kept going.  After mile 3 we grabbed water at 4 and 5.  (there were water stops every mile which was nice.)  My water stop at mile 5 stunk a bit as water went up my nose that caused me to have an upset stomach at about 5.5.  I could not stop gagging and had to pull off and dry heave for a few seconds.  I sent Gail ahead and then kicked it into high gear for the finish.  My finish time was 55:10 garmin, 55:19 race time.  I was thrilled.  I secretly wanted to finish under 55, but honestly who is complaining.
This race is so well run, the refreshments after are great!  The towns people are great.  There was not a mile where there were not people cheering.  They really pushed us to keep going.  I will definitely do this race again and we hope to make it a girls weekend next year.
Now, I do have one complaint.  When we went to get our numbers on Friday at 2 pm they were out of medium shirts.  I can't stand when you don't get the shirt you ordered.  Really frustrating and poor planning on their part....but honestly that was our only complaint!
Now...on to Falmouth!!!

3 Things Thursday......

1.  I am officially get anxious about Chicago.  While I have been running it has been a little bit of a struggle.  My shin hurts, the kids are home 24/7 now and quite honestly my nerves are shot.  I will say I am a little OCD and am getting nervous that it is not going to be the race that I want it to be, but I don't even know what I am looking for.  My friend M told me to take a big breath and stop over thinking it.  Hmmm....good advice for me.
2.  I am running Beach to Beacon this weekend and am so excited.  I have never run the race before and don't have any big expectations.  I am just going to go out there and do my best.  I also want to try to get my picture with Deena Kastor and Joan Benoit Samuelson.  That would be exciting for me:)
3.  Finally, I think that I am officially ready for my kiddos to go back to school.  Please don't tell me I am wishing the summer away.  I really am not, but I think that we need our routine back.  I need my house back and my schedule back.  Maybe 10 weeks off is to long.

and we're off to go uniform shopping for school.  Nothing like 4 kids at Educational Outfitters.  Always makes for a good time.

3 Things Thursday.......Childless Edition

1.  I have been childless since Tuesday.  What does a runner mama do when she has no kids....hmmmm...she goes and runs 13 miles at 9 am on a Wednesday morning.  She also might go to Pinkberry, Whole Foods and Lululemon.  Nothing like being footloose and fancy free.  ( and yes I bought 2 new running skirts at Lulu  shhhh.....please do not tell my H or crazy ladies who right crazy comments in Runner's World magazine.)

2.  What does a mama do after her long run when she has no kiddos at home?  She walks in the door, gets a shower, puts her pj's on and hunkers down on the couch.  I watched about 6 hours of bad tv.  I don't think that I have done that in years.  My house was clean, I was not worried about lunches/meals.  It was the absolute perfect afternoon.

3.  I ran 5 miles this morning after my 13 yesterday.  Am I crazy thinking that I might get another run on this afternoon?  Maybe on the TM while I watch more bad tv.  It definitely might happen.

Happy Thursday!!

Look what Came in the Mail

On Monday a package arrived from OnlineShoes and boy was I excited because I knew what was inside....a saucy new pair of Mizuno's which I wore today on my 13 mile jaunt.  What is it about a new pair of shoes to give you that bounce as you take off? Yay!

16 Mile Friday

Well....this was not the most conventional 16 miler, but I can chalk it up in the books.  I started at 5 am and met my friends.  Our plan was to run for 2 hours and then finish whatever we had left on our home treadmills.  We made it an hour.  By the time we finished at 6 am, it was 87 degrees and 100% humidity.  I have honestly never felt air like this.  It was hot, thick, hazy and then there was this strong hot wind blowing.  Really unbelievable.  We were wheezing, sweating and limping.  We were done.  Take II....after having to run some errands I decided that I was going to finish those last 10 miles.  I had an hour and hopped on my treadmill.  I knew that I could get 6 miles in before I picked the kiddos up.  1 hour later I was in the car picking up the kids from camp.  Take III....threw some lunch in front of the kids and then hopped by on my treadmill for 4 miles.  Let's just say that took a lot of mental toughness.  Even though I had a show on I just wanted off.  That had to be the longest 4 miles I have ever run.  Long story short I finished...WOO-HOO!  I immediately went and hopped in the pool with the 4 kids following behind me.  It felt so good.  Now off to clean up the house and then out tonight with friends.  (Oh, and hopefully some rest before tonight.)  Happy Friday!!

Three Things Thursday

1.  I could write about the heat, but I think that we all know about it.  Whether it is the heat dome over the center of the country, the high heat and humidity in the Northeast, it is definitely out there.  If you are out there working out, running, walking your dog please take precautions.  It is really hot.  Take it easy, rehydrate and even consider moving it inside for the next couple of days.
2.  With that being said I have a 16 mile run on tap for tomorrow am.  Start time 5 am.  Our goal is to run for 2 hours and then whatever is left we will hit our Mills to finish.  I already have my clothes laid out, have planned out my am meal and I have my snacks ready.  We are feeling a little bit behind in our training, but I am confident that once October 9th comes we will be ready to hit the streets of Chicago.  Special thoughts out to a member of our running group, Ms. G, who is really suffering with PF.  She is off to my "witch doctor" (Dr. Looney) this am to help with the pain and to get back on track.
3.  Summer laundry YIKES!!!!!  We have a pool in the backyard which is awesome except for the amount of towels and bathing suits and clothes I am washing every day.  I am having a hard time keeping up.  What they don't tell you is that even though it is "summer vacation" it is still a lot of work:)  Do I have a little count in the back of my mind as to when school starts?  I have to admit, YES!  Please don't hate me....I am not wishing away summer, but selfishly I miss my routine.
Happy Thursday....Remember stay cool!

The Races are Coming....The Races are Coming

I am officially back from the 03257.  (Blue Ridge Summit, PA) and hit the pavement at 5 am for an eight mile run.  We made it 5 miles before falling to the humidity.  The air was so thick I felt like you could taste it.  I then popped on the treadmill for 3 miles and officially got my 8 miles in for the day.  We are officially in the dog days of summer.  Heat and humidity and then afternoon thunderstorms.  That is another reason to get my runs done early.  I hate when thunder throws you off.
Starting August 2nd and through the 21st I have 4 races.  The Yankee Homecoming 10 miler, Beach to Beacon, Falmouth Road Race and finally the Gloucester Road Race.  I love races because they give me a goal and they all fit pretty well into my training schedule.  The only one that I am doing by myself is the Falmouth Road Race, but I am okay with it.  I love that course, it is so, so, so beautiful and it is a nice morning run.  The only thing that gets you usually is the humidity.  (Humidity seems to be the buzz word this summer.)
So Race Season here I come.  My favorite time of year....now if I could only get a bit faster.

TTT.....It's Izzie's Birthday Edition

1. Today is my last born's birthday. Isabelle Cate Warren came into the world 5 years ago today with her cord knotted twice and sunny side up. After having a girl and then two boys we were thrilled to have another girl. Izzie, as we all know her now, sees the bright side of everything. She's happy go lucky, slow to get mad and loves to "play jokes" on her brothers and sister.

2. All Izzie wanted for her birthday was a camera. We ended up getting her a little Kodak digital camera that she can use in the water too. As of right now I have had my picture taken about 1000 times and now she is outside chasing the neighborhood cat because she has been meaning to get a picture of him. She is leading the kids' around on her own picture treasure hunt. She is lucky that Siri and Ben are so good to her. They seem to be following her around.

3. The best line of the morning was when she woke up, stood on the bed and screamed, "I grew, I know I grew. Look at me Mama!" She then went to weigh herself and she was up a pound from yesterday. I didn't have the heart to tell her is was probably because she didn't go to the bathroom yet:) It makes me appreciate my last little one. Everything is still an adventure to her, exciting, new and cool. It makes me want to bottle her up and keep her 5 forever.

Happy Birthday Izzie!

What.....We Have an Eleven Year Old

She will start by telling you that she would prefer no pictures on my blog, but since it is her birthday she will let it slide. 11 years ago today we had our first child. Siri was 2 weeks early, was serious early on and even though we have 4 now still acts like an only child. (we find this funny since she was an "only" for only 13 months). She said "yellow" at 9 months and "please" and "thank you" by a year. She has been riding horses since she was three and doesn't have a passion for anything else. (including school:) She loves her friends, but has no time for girl funny business. She is very MESSY....(which kills anal me) and will definitely give us a run for our money. She has taught us to laugh things off and roll our eyes but, also taught us to be parents. Happy Birthday Sis! We love you!!!!

Hazy, Hot, Humid and Hilly

I have made it to my vacation and am enjoying hanging out with my mom, dad and sister. We spent all day yesterday eating my mom's home cooking and then today spent the day at the pool. It is very, very hot here. 96 today. Needless to say we are a little toasted from our day at the pool.

After enjoying coffee with my mom until about 10 am I decided that I better head out on my run. I had no plan, threw on my Newtons and off I went. At first the 90 degree temp really didn't bother me to much until I realized that a/I didn't bring my water bottle and b/ I had not had breakfast, but A LOT of coffee. I went one way, another way and finally hit mile 3. At mile 3 I decided that I would run 6 and took a turn that I was sure was totally downhill.....guess what it was not downhill at all....not only was it not downhill, it was uphill for a mile. Oh and it was in the sun. At one point I swear I was hallucinating and saw a lemonade stand to my left.....No such luck....but, I kept going. Finally, I turned up my mom's street (another hill) and made it home in under an hour. I was soaking wet and so hot and so thirsty! How I just wanted to hit my mom's basement and watch tv for the afternoon. But, 4 kids were waiting and off to the pool we went.

How are you all beating the heat? Swimming, movies....??

Three Things Thursday

1. Well....after my early morning proclamations I overslept this morning and missed my 5:15 run. I am guessing that my body is tired and running that early was not meant to be. I am now beating myself up about it, but know that I will get a run in at some point today. arrrggghhh.....okay time to get over it.

2. I have to pack and get ready for an early morning wake up tomorrow. We are driving to PA tomorrow am. The little kids' have been with my mom for 2 weeks and now we are going to spend the week and come home next Friday. I am looking forward to sitting on my mom's patio and relaxing. I will get to spend time with my sister and her kids' as well. It will definitely be a nice break.

3. Is it me or is the summer flying by? We got out of school very late (June 24th) and now July 4th has already passed. We are trying to fit in as much fun in July before football starts August 1. At the same time, I forget how much I appreciate my "self time." I am enjoying the kids', but man cleaning up behind them is driving me crazy. And honestly this is just the two big kids, Yikes when all 4 of them are together again. Oh well, maybe that is supposed to be the fun of summer. Learning to let go and enjoying the moment.

Now...off to pack and get my run on!! Happy Thursday!!

It Got Hot Here

It is hot here in good ole' NH. Hot enough that after laying by the pool for an hour the kiddos were ready to come inside. I have been getting my runs done at 5:15 and am loving it. There is nothing like finishing your run by 6:15, stopping to get a coffee and being ready to watch the Today Show by 7 am. Definitely kind of nice.
We spent the weekend in Maine and had a blast. I am down two little kids right now so it was just me, T and the two big kids. We beached, kayaked, shopped and ate our way through Southern Maine. I also ran the LL Bean 4th of July 10K. Very fun race. Good crowd support and the race was put on really well. What I loved was the post race food. There was watermelon, lemonade, bagels, muffins, coffee etc...you name it they had it. My time was not my fastest by any means (56:46 Garmin time), but I had a great time. The humidity was 100% when the race started and miles 4 and 5 were straight up hill. What made this race special was that my parents used to run this race every year when they still lived in Maine. My Dad's fastest time....47:00. Yikes, that is fast.
I am in the middle of week 6 for Chicago training. I have a 14 on the schedule for tomorrow morning. Can I tell you I am tired already and I haven't even run yet. I am definitely feeling that running spark once again. I had a couple of weeks where I just didn't have it, but thankfully it is back. I think that my 3 rest days last week were good for me.
Happy Wednesday! Hopefully you are staying C-O-O-L!

3TT......Here's to You Edition

1...To the rather large woman in your big, black, Chevy pick up truck who we encountered this morning.....I don't know what could have made you in such an ugly mood at 5:20 this morning, but I hope that your day got better. I don't know why you felt that you needed to speed by us and raise your arms at us, but it was kind of uncalled for. I am hoping that you were just feeling jealous because you were obviously running a bit late for work (or Dunkin' Donuts) and we were outside running and enjoying the beautiful morning.

2.....To my stomach. Why? Why? Why? are you forsaking me? I got up at 4:30 and had a little something to eat. I drank water and had a Hammer Gel at mile 5, so why by mile 11 did I have to make a dash for my MIL's house and a bathroom. This summer is my first experience with a bad stomach so I am trying out many different things to make it through these long runs. Next try is gummy bears.

3.....To my sweet puppy Nelly. Do you really need to attempt to chase every car on the road? I know that you are a Corgi, a working dog but, NEWSFLASH, you are on a leash and today when you got caught on my leg and leash burned me , I was definitely a bit frustrated. Please work with me. The last thing I need is for you to get run over.

Finally, (I have a fourth today) if you haven't gone to Back Pocket Sports yet, you need to. I won a shirt from them recently and I have to say I am in love. I am not always sure about tops. I like to try them on first, but I love this shirt. In fact it is in the washer now so I can take it with me this weekend. Happy Fourth of July Weekend everyone. Take time to relax and have fun!

Struggling with the Early AM

My runs are becoming early due to the change in schedule i.e. kids home from school. I have to say I am struggling. I have no problem getting up at 4:45, but once I get there every step is killing me. Today I was so tired I felt like telling my 2 friends to go on, like I was going to curl up on the side of the road and go back to bed. I will be the first to admit that I have not been eating before my run. I don't know what to eat. I am not a breakfast person as it is, so the idea of eating and chewing that early in the morning makes me want to puke. (maybe a bit dramatic) I have thought about putting a PB&J next to my bed in the hopes that I would scarf it down when the alarm goes off. Thoughts?? What do others eat for breakfast or do you eat breakfast? Definitely need some help with this and would appreciate any ideas.

What's That, my 200th Post...

Tonight is my 200th post. I wish that I had some awesome running post planned for you, but unfortunately I don't. I had a busy weekend of driving 2 peanuts to meet my parents and today a day of trying to do end of the year school organizing, peppered in with some resting and gearing up for the next 10 weeks. Summer vacation is officially here. It is time for early morning runs and sitting by the pool. A fun week in PA is planned as well as a week at the Cape. 4th of July will be spent in Maine. I am running the LL Bean 4th of July 10K. I am excited because this is a race that my parents used to run every year. Oh, and did I mention I was running Beach to Beacon and the Falmouth Road Race. Throw in some camps and a little bit of Pop Warner football and I think that we will be plenty busy. Happy Summer!!!

Three Things Thursday

1. In 25 hours it will officially be summer vacation for my kiddos. While Iz was done last week and Siri was done on Wednesday, the boys' are officially done tomorrow. For Ben it is his last day at the elementary school in our town as 5th grade goes to the middle school. Ben will be attending private school in Nashua next year. I am just not comfortable with my 5th grader at the Middle School with 8th graders. We made the same decision for Siri and she loves her school so we are excited for Ben too. (P.S....Ben is not happy for the record.)
2. Last year the kids and I made a huge list of all of the things that we wanted to do in the summer. It was fun to make the list and we did accomplish some things, but not all. I think that we will do that tomorrow night.
3. Week 3 of Marathon training is going pretty well. The humidity has been some what brutal here. I feel it is hard to catch my breath sometimes, but I have always been that girl who it takes about 2 miles to get into a run. I think that it will just take time to settle in. Plus, I need the heat and humidity training. Word on the street is that Chicago can be brutal in October. Thank goodness it is FLAT!
Happy Thursday everyone!! Are all of your kids out of school yet??

What has Happened to Me?

Something has happened to my run. She is fighting me and I think that I know what is going on. She doesn't like to be with just me, she has become a group runner. At first I couldn't figure it out. Why have I become slower? Why do I want to quit at 3.5 miles? Why is my mind wondering off to other things? (that could be a bit of ADD) Then at the end of my run I figured it out. I really don't run by myself very often. My run likes to have her friends, her running besties with her. There is M and G who are my marathon buddies, sometimes K joins us and then 2 mornings a week there is L. I need them to push us. I need them to push the pace, to make me a stronger runner. Is this good for us? Ummm.....sometimes running friends are not around, sometimes you need to rely on yourself to get through a run, but on those days we can keep truckin', but for right now I am going to stick to my besties. I mean really, what are friends for? So tomorrow instead of 8 lonely miles, we are going to meet our friends at 5 and knock out those 8.
Happy Tuesday everyone...tomorrow is Siri's last day of school...the boys' on Friday. Let the fun begin.

Celebrating Dad

Happy Father's Day to my wonderful Dad and to my wonderful Husband. I am a very lucky girl to have 2 incredible men in my life.

My Dad is a great support system, taught my sister and I how to get out there and work and how to run races. He laughed at our jokes, was calming during a storm and always knew the right things to say. One of my greatest memories is in 6th grade when he took me to see "Rocky 3" and told me that even though he and my mom were hard on me they were doing the best they could. Since I was the oldest sometimes I bore the brunt of their mistakes, but in the end I would be a better person for it. (If I remember right I got my ears pierced that year and my mom let my sister who was 3 years younger than me, got hers done too....big deal in the life of a 10 year old).

My husband is my best friend. Our house is crazy and he just roles with it. He is an incredible listener, knows when to tell me to back off and supports all of my crazy endeavors. He is not a runner and has no desire to be, but has no problem with me getting out there everyday if I need to. He is a football and lacrosse coach, a giant teddy bear and most of all is a hands on Dad. We are all very lucky to have him!

Happy Father's Day to all of the great dad's out there. Hopefully your day has been as fun as ours.

3TT....It's Summer Edition

1. One more week and school is out here in NH. You would think that we would know how to manage snow but obviously we don't as we had to make up 5 snow days. While part of me is not totally looking forward to the summer juggle, the other part of me is so done with packing lunches, checking homework and signing books.
2. My first warm long run on Wednesday took a bit of a tole. I am definitely not used to the increase temps yet. We ran 11, but did not plan our water right or fuel right. Better to figure that out on an 11 mile run vs a 20 mile run. It is also important for heat training as Chicago has been know to be quite hot in the beginning of October. I am sure this year I will jinx myself and it will be 20 degrees and a snow storm.
3. Vacations...what do you have planned? We will hit the Cape for a week, my mom's for a week and a few Maine side trips. I have quite a few races planned and a lot of time by the pool. N
****Finally, Congratulations to the Boston Bruins. What excitement in New England over this big win. It was the first time Ben (age 9) stayed up for an entire championship game. He was so wired last night he could hardly fall asleep. Yay Bruins and Yay Ben!!!******

We Have the Fever

Bruins fever has hit the Warren House. My kids are crazy, my husband is crazy, even the dog is crazy. Tonight is game 7 of the Stanley Cup Finals. First let me say we would be considered Pink Hats by most accounts. ( a pink hat is someone who jumps on the bandwagon and really does not know much about the sport they are cheering for.) My husband is begging to differ because he says he watches hockey all season. (Maybe?) My last hockey experience was watching the Bruins play in the playoffs 13 years ago. (I think it was 13 years ago). Anyway....everyone is excited, the game has started and I am watching DC Cupcakes with Izzie. I am to nervous to watch the game. Go B's!!

11 Mile run in the books today. I ran with Gail, one of my running besties who is suffering from Plantar Fasciitis. Can you say painful? As someone that has suffered with PF twice, I know the feeling. When we were trying to figure out how it happened she realized that she had run 130 miles the month of May and probably needed new shoes:( Fingers crossed for quick healing as we are training for Chicago together.

Okay quick update Ben (age 9) has just been kicked out of the Bruins room for talking to much. Obviously they need me downstairs to keep the peace. Happy Wednesday!!!

Is it Outside or Inside

My plan calls for 3 miles today, but typically I do 4 or 5. I am not good at only running 3 miles. I don't seem to get the Runner's High from 3 miles. I guess it is kind of like drugs, once you start you need more and more. My dilemma is should I wait for my husband to get home from Colorado? or just hop on my treadmill? Now typically Trav will get off of the plane and stop and check his email and do some work and then get home at his "normal" time which is 6 pm. I am hoping today he will miss us so much (hahaha) that he will rush right home to see the kids. Right? Isn't that what most Dad's do? I called him out on FB so I am hoping that will work to my running advantage. If not I will hop on the old Mill and get my workout done.

We are officially done with Lacrosse. We do have a tournament this weekend, but practices this week are optional. Homework seems to be wrapping up too. My 4th grader has a book project due Thursday and then he is done. The last 2 weeks of school are so painful. I am so curious what they really do?? Thoughts?? My 5th grader is working on a volcano in Science she told me. She then said we should do one at home. Hmmmm.....can that be done outside??

Well of to ponder my inside vs. outside. What is your workout today??

Get it in Gear

Phew....It is the end of the year alright. Wow! Between end of the year board meetings, lacrosse tournaments, horse shows, and preschool graduations I am beat. I spent this morning at a local dairy farm with Izzie's 4 year old preschool class, my last dairy farm trip. (I have been on 4 of them) It is definitely bitter sweet. While I am so ready to move on, for Izzie to go to kindergarden and for me to figure out what I am going to do with my life I am sad at the same time. I am not great at transitions, so I am definitely a little anxious to what the future holds.

I skipped my run today. I don't know what is going on, but I just was not feeling it and I didn't know how to fit it in. At one point I was going to put on my running clothes, but I didn't even have the energy....hmmm....I have a 6 am run planned for tomorrow. As much as I don't want to get up, I know if I don't do it, I won't. It's weird 6 months ago I would have run at 9 pm if I had too and right now I am just like "Nope!" I am hoping that my body will "Get in gear" after the kids are out of school and I have my summer routine. Fingers crossed or else Chicago and Richmond aren't going to go very well!

Anything inspiring for me to get back on track?? Is anyone else feeling a little crazy with the end of school???

Sometimes It Just Doesn't Work Out

Today was not my day. I started out at 5 am with what supposed to be a 10 mile run. Well, I made it to mile 8 and hung up my sneakers. I thought that I could talk myself into it, but I just couldn't today. It was my 3rd 5 am run in a row and my legs were just tired....I also made a mistake and did not eat breakfast. I didn't want to wake anyone (i.e. puppy) and I didn't want to have to go to the bathroom (I know, I know!) so I threw my clothes on and headed out. I think that I learned my lesson....

Next I was supposed to have my girls outlet shopping trip....well Izzie was not cooperating. It was not her fault. She developed a raging ear infection yesterday and after going to the MD and not putting her on meds, we were back there this morning.

Dear MD,

If a mother bring in her 4 year old with chronic ear infections and argues with you for 15 minutes about an antibiotic then please give it to her. That way her child will sleep through the night and won't be crying hysterically that her ear is "exploding!"

Thanks,

MOm

So, now I am on the couch, in the AC. (yes it is 95 here in NH and supposed to be 100 tomorrow) with Izzie laying on my lap and thinking about my yoga crosstrain tomorrow. I can't wait. Happy Wednesday!

Let the Fun Begin

This morning was my first run of my marathon training plan. A 5 mile tempo run, that I finished in 44 minutes. It is so hard to get going at 5 am, but I always feel good after it is done. Our plan for the Chicago Marathon consists of tempo runs, long runs, shorter "fun" runs and finally some cross training. I have said in the past that I am not a great cross trainer, but this time I am forcing myself to cross train 1 day a week! (Thanks, G!!) I also am doing Ab Ripper X 4 times a week, which I started yesterday and was reminded how much my abs/core stink....this will be great for me. I am happy to be back on the sauce (my running plan). I am a happier person when training. Believe me, my family is thanking me!!!

I have been craving yummy salads on a daily basis. I mean big salads, with all sorts of stuff in them. (think beats and sunflower seeds) Yesterday, my stomach had had enough fiber though and told me to take a step back from the spinach please. I do love this time of year. Finally in NH we have fresh veggies, our Farmer's Market is open and I am back to some "clean living!"

Happy Monday everyone....I am off to coach Pre-K and Kindergarden lacrosse. Wish me luck, these kids are tough:)

3 Things Thursday.......

1. I don't have an edition today. Holiday weeks make my life totally random which for me is okay sometimes. I think that I get so wrapped up in the structure of my week that I forget it is okay to get off track a bit. That is hard for a girl like me....can you say OCD, but I am learning that it is okay. The laundry will get folded, my bed made and food on the table. My husband is a good sport and just kind of rolls with it.

2. Could the schools work on providing a somewhat decent lunch the last 3 weeks of school so that maybe my kids will buy? I am definitely to the end of the packing lunches gig for the year. The kiddos are sick of sandwiches. They are bringing their fruit home uneaten (is that even a word?) and I am tired of trying to think of something new to pack. Lunch ladies I get it, you are trying to clean out the fridges/freezers but could we drop the french toast sticks and ham slices for a little something yummy.

3. My Chicago/Richmond Marathon training plan starts on Sunday. Thanks to T, I have a plan from a previous marathon training. I am soooooooooo excited. I love training for something. I love the calendar, I love crossing out the days and I love the feeling of accomplishing something on a weekly basis. Woo-hoo!!!!! Let the fun begin.

It's National Running Day

I wish I could tell you that I ran today, but I didn't. Instead I hit the trails for the 4th grade hike with B and his class. It actually was a tough climb. A lot of tree routes, rocks and heat and humidity. I planned on running after the climb on the Mill, but a tornado warning in our area put a stop to that when the 4 kids thought we should spend the rest of the evening in the basement. ummmmm.....no, we are not spending the rest of the evening in the basement. My basement is not a fun basement, it is mud room and laundry room, not a hang out room. So, instead of a run I ordered a new skirt from RunningSkirts while Iz sat on my lap with her fingers in her ears waiting for thunder and a tornado.

The month of May was a good running month for me. I completed 2 half marathons and ran over 1oo miles (110 to be exact). My hip has not been bothering me as much, but I do feel twinges every now and then. June will find me starting my Chicago Marathon training. I have no races this month and I am okay with that.

Happy National Running Day friends! Hopefully you got your runs in and enjoyed the day:)

Run to Remember 2011

This race was not my best. I didn't say "wow! that was fun" or "I can't wait to do that again." I love half marathon's but woke this am with a feeling of weird dread. I needed a sub 1:50 for a coral placement at Chicago, but could tell this was not going to be my day....in the end it didn't even matter because of what I encountered at mile 12.

At mile 12 I had my stride back and I was bringing it in...when coming through the Theater District I had to stop. Runner down and when I say down, I mean down. I stopped immediately, this kid did not look good. I was a nurse before I was a SAHM and besides someone being dead I have never seen someone so white. "James" was white, shaking, salty and was throwing up. He also was somewhat unresponsive....not even somewhat he was communicating by hand gripping that really had stopped by the time the bike EMS guy hot there. I can honestly say I was scared for this kid. It also made me think about race preparation. I don't know this kid from a fly in the wall, but he was running in football shorts and sneakers. Had he trained? Had he properly hydrated? Was he there with his friends and they thought they could just throw down a half marathon?

I am a prepared runner....I start hydrating days before, eat certain foods, try to increase my sleep and do try to put in the miles. A half marathon is a big deal, it is not easy. Especially not in heat and humidity and not something that you should just jump into. We so many times hear the phrase RESPECT THE DISTANCE. 13.1 should be respected, it is not easy....

I have been thinking about James all night. I am hoping that they helped him and he is surrounded with his family right now. So...a prayer for James.

Happy Memorial Day everyone. We are so blessed to have so many Armed Forces that protect us and take care of us on a daily basis. If you see one today, old or young why don't you give them a thank you.

And it's the Last One....

I have 4 kiddos ranging in age from 10-4. They all advance this summer (3 in July....no funny Halloween jokes) and one in August. They are all very different....each one of them with extremely different personalities, but they all seem to follow their birth order personalities. S and B are 13 months apart and tend to fight over who is the oldest although S thinks she is an only sometimes. A is a typical middle and I is the baby. Today she is totally the baby and may single handedly send me over the edge.

I has cried about something since she returned home from her friend's this afternoon about everything. From not getting her clam chowder (helloooooo...it is 90 degrees outside) or making her nachos to not carrying her in to school to pick up the boys, (it's hot and she is heavy). I am drained and frustrated as evidenced by my quote of the day...."I if you can't walk yourself then I will have to call St. C's and you will not be able to go to Kindergarden next year." Really, really did that really just come out of my mouth? She looked at me like I was crazy and I am. I mean seriously she is signed up to go to all day kindergarden next year and I am threatening that she won't go. The heat is obviously getting to me because I am actually making silly parenting comments which I will never follow through on. So...I is now set up in front of the tv with crackers while I read blogs for a minute and when T gets home she is all his. Happy Memorial Day everyone!

TTT...it's Spring/Summer Edition

1. The weather here is DELIGHTFUL!!! 80 degrees, sunny and light breeeze. After 2 weeks of rain finally we are having summer. While I am feeling happy for myself, I am still very sad for the people in Missouri. I can't imagine losing everything in my life, my home, my car, my family...it is just the saddest story ever. I don't know if anyone saw this story, but the Boomtown Half was supposed to be run this weekend. They are encouraging runners to come out still, but to help with the clean up and if you can't go out, then how about signing up for the race. The proceeds will go toward helping the people of Joplin.

2. I am going to use the next couple of weeks to get used to training/running in the warmer weather and humidity. My fuel belts are out. I got a new supply of Nuun and I have been running around 9 am at times. I will be completing some of my summer runs early...(4:30ish) so that I will have my days to myself and the kiddos. Unfortunately our long runs are scheduled for Friday's at 10 am. Let's just say that I will be ready for Chicago.

3. I got my sunscreen out today. I am bad about sunscreen, I have a pretty dark complexion and many times just go with it, but I am starting to get some wrinkles around my eyes and it is probably time to start taking care of my skin. 40 is beating down my door....also the idea of skin cancer is very scary to me. My friend's mother had skin cancer last year and it was pretty traumatic, not what I need on my plate right now.

What is the weather like where you are? Do you use sunscreen? What time do you like to run?

And Today....a Snake

Today was just a fun 6 mile jaunt with the besties...we decided to do 6 since I am running a half on Sunday and didn't want to go to far. I will run tomorrow and then take Friday and Saturday off. Anyhoo....coming down our dirt road we noticed something...and that something was a SNAKE. Let the screaming commence. The three of us have run half marathons, a marathon, (GJ has run 3 marathons), have 10 children between us, but see a snake and forget it. M almost ran it over with the stroller and then her 2 year old wanted to see it...I took him over and even he screamed. Poor M--I made her take the picture. IT was not a rattlesnake by any means, just a Garter snake. Needless to say there is always a little excitement on the dirt roads of NH. Happy Wednesday.....

It's Tuesday....

Well Tuesday has arrived in good ole NH...and wait for it...wait for it....it is not raining. Woo-hoo. To bad my washing machine has been broken since Thursday and instead of enjoying the great outdoors (i.e ....weeding my garden) I will be doing 10, 000 million loads of laundry. Between everyday clothes, running clothes and lacrosse clothes well...I will let your imagination wander. The boys are officially out of socks though so I am sure you are feeling me right now.

I went on a longish run yesterday with my 2 running besties...8 miles. It was rainy, drizzly and a touch humid out when we ran yesterday. I also did not have my car. (H took it to get new tires) So in not having my car, I did not have my Body Glide....I am paying for it today. My thighs (okay they rub together it doesn't matter how much I run or how skinny I am) look like I rubbed them on the pavement for about 2 hours. If you can imagine the shower after my run and putting on pants after my shower. It was not pretty. Today I have shorts on and they catch each other every once in a while. YOWSERS!!

I am doing the Run to Remember Half Marathon on Sunday so I wanted to get one more longer run in before Sunday. Can you believe this will be my 4th half this year? It will also probably be my last one this year. My Chicago Marathon training officially begins June 6th so that is where my heart will be for the next 4 months. I have to admit though I do love a half marathon. I like the training time, the fact that the race is over in about two hours and that you feel a great accomplishment after. Chicago will be my second marathon with Richmond following a month later. If you remember I didn't have a great 1st marathon, so I will be hoping to redeem myself at Chicago.

Any big racing plans for other people out there? Do you race in the summer or take it easy?