Friday, April 29, 2016

Five Runfessions (April)



I'm linking up with the lovely Marcia today from Marcia's Healthy Slice
Please stop by and join in with your own Runfessions!





I Runfess...

On Wednesday I signed up for one last Spring  another half marathon.  Umm...the race is tomorrow {I know, it's a sickness!}.  I couldn't pass it up after seeing the elevation chart.  I loved the other downhill half I ran in the Colorado Rockies.   The name of this race is Tear Drop.  Oh, my.   If I survive that drop, this will be my 41st half marathon.



I Runfess...

I bought another skirt from Sparkle Athletics.  It was on sale half price.  Seriously, what's a girl supposed to do?  I like these lightweight skirts to wear over my capris in colder weather -- just for a little pop of color.  Unfortunately, it will be a while before I use it.



I Runfess...

I have sinned...  This tastes like the cookies Delta Airlines once gave out in flight (maybe they still do?).  YUM!  Slap it on a slice of Pepperidge Farms Chocolate Chip Swirl Bread and you've got a DOUBLE YUM!



I Runfess... 

This has nothing to do with anything.  But, I couldn't resist including a cute picture of Mini sleeping.  I recently posted a picture of Mojo's photobomb.  I feel I must give equal time to the pets.



I Runfess...

I couldn't pass on the opportunity to be an ambassador for Level Up Virtual Runs.  BB8 is adorable in the latest Star Wars film.  In keeping with that theme, here is their latest medal design for finishers of May The 4th Be With You.  If you'd like to participate, use CODE10 for a discount on registration at Level Up Virtual Runs.  Trust me when I say they give out the most unique and impressive medals.  The window of participation is from May 4th to 28th and you choose your distance.  Registration will remain open until May 15th.
 


Got anything you need to runfess?


 

I'm also linking up with the Friday Five where it's Free Friday.
Please hop over and check out what everyone has to say!
Thank you to our gracious hosts:

Courtney from Eat Pray Run DC,
Mar from Mar on the Run!.







Tuesday, April 26, 2016

The Extras

For today's Tuesday On The Run we are talking about race swag:  what we liked best and what our dream swag would be.  I've run my share of races (over 150), but have run few where we received anything noteworthy other than the usual T-shirt.   Although, I must admit to having a tiara, boa and a few tropical leis!   You won't see me at the grocery store in any of those.

The most common extra I get in my swag bag is a reflector or a blinking light.  I'm very touched that so many organizations are concerned about my safety!  {Hey, I could use them as Christmas ornaments, don't you think?}  But seriously, it's definitely not what I consider dream swag.




It is nice (and different) to get the extra swag of a toboggan or throwaway gloves when it's cold.  But, it's still not something I'm wishing for.  Yes, the dark green fleece hat has come in very handy for winter runs.  Dream worthy?  No. 




If we are talking "extra" -- how about the EXTRA large medals we are now receiving!  Are races now trying to outdo one another?  I thought the Nashville boots and Denver mountain were gigantic,  but they pale in comparison to the recent Destin sunset.  





And speaking of Destin, the flip flops we received at the finish line of this half marathon were a nice touch.  We even got to choose the design we wanted.  I went with patriotic.  Am I dreaming of shower shoes?  Nah.





If I had to pick my favorite swag item, it would be the colorful full sized beach towel from the Mercedes Half.  I can never have enough beach towels around in the summer.  Naturally, I won't let anyone use this one!  Ha!



The one item I'd like to be given, is a piece of commemorative jewelry.  A silver bracelet.  Earrings.  A necklace with charm is OK too.  Is that too much to ask?  {Probably!}


Tell me about your favorite extra!


Thanks to our wonderful hosts:

 Ericka @ MCM Mama Runs









Sunday, April 24, 2016

Back Home (WW # 38)

Welcome to the Weekly Wrap!


This linkup is hosted by yours truly and my good friend Tricia at MissSippiPiddlin.    The purpose of this link is to connect with and support other active women. You can summarize your whole week or just a small portion of it.  It's up to you!  Race recaps are also encouraged!  {See rules}   

We are thrilled that we continue to have a record number of linkers each week.  Thank You!  The support and camaraderie are truly priceless.  Please return later in the week and interact with more women.   It's an excellent way to make new friends and gain invaluable support, all while holding yourself accountable!  Don't forget to comment on each blog that you read and remember to support your hosts.  


*******************************************************


I didn't recap the Destin Half last week and I'll try to keep it short.  As you know, Tricia was by my side for half #40.  I wanted a 2:05 or less, a slight improvement over my last one.  My plan was to average a 9:30 and speed up in the last few miles.  The course was out and back, directly west and then east -- not a loop, a straight line.  The bridge over the bay was stunning, although I did a lot of weaving on the first pass.  Most miles (4 out plus 4 back) were through the Gulf Islands National Seashore with the bay on one side and the ocean on the other.   My plan was working OK and I could feel the wind at my back.  It was warm and I thought "that's going to feel good when I turn around".  {Bahahaha.} 

At the turn around, I knew I was in deep trouble.  Hello, wind!  I saw Tricia coming my way and we high-fived for luck.  My plan quickly changed from 9:30 to "don't go over 10".  I did this for 2 miles...and was utterly exhausted.   I was now back at the section with the bay on the left and the ocean on the right.   For 4 miles, there was absolutely nothing to break the wind.  Watching the kite surfers was very entertaining, however!   I ran so closely behind a pair of ladies, I know they wanted to smack me.   I was tired of the roar in my ears as my Yurbuds amplify wind noise.  {Anybody else?}  My plan changed to "just hang on".   My feet cramped in mile 10 but after two quick stops to stretch, they were OK.  



When I reached the bridge again, this time I walked across the peak.  The view was spectacular as fishing boats were coming out from underneath to head into the ocean.  The sky and water were a stunning blue.  I took a few seconds to reflect on the scene, the ability and opportunity to have run 40 of these things, and just take in and appreciate the moment.  My time didn't matter.  I picked it back up going down the bridge and smoked my two wind buffers in the final mile.  {Sorry ladies, but thank you!}.  I finished with a hard fought 2:14 -- a far cry from the original plan.  I was 13 out of 54 in my age group

Was I upset?  Heck, no.  Part of why I love doing this is because every race is different.  You never know what you will get.  I conquered the wind on this day!  The race direction was excellent.  The expo exceeded expectations as well as the after party at beautiful Harbor Walk.  We even got to pick out a pair of flipflops at the finish line.  I would definitely do it again, sans wind of course.  The medal?  HUGE!  It also can be mounted as a bottle opener.  {Hands off honey, it's going on my medal rack!}



The weekend with Tricia and her husband was a blast.


To see our pictures and read about our shenanigans >>GO HERE<< !




Weekly Wrap



M -- 4 miles beach recovery run
T  -- strength (a plank PR!)
W -- 5 miles progressive
        (10:02 / 9:52 / 9:27 / 9:15 / 8:49)
T  -- strength
F  -- REST
S  -- 3 miles (5k race) 
S  -- 6 miles

Total -- 18 miles




I received exciting news on Thursday.  I was selected to run the Chicago Marathon again.  If you are new to my blog, this is the race I had to DNS after developing a stress fracture in my left foot just two weeks before the race.  That's right...after all the training was done.  It was a hard pill to swallow.  I'd like to finish what I started. 

In continuing with my "run more 5ks to get faster" plan, Saturday I participated in the CCAD 5k benefiting autism.  It was sunny and 65 degrees (warm in my book).  I went out too fast (8:39) hung on during mile 2 (8:54) tanked during the last mile (9:18) and sprinted to the finish (7:56).  My overall official pace was 8:55.  Although I'm happy with anything that starts with "8", I was disappointed I allowed myself to walk in the last mile.  Why.did.I.do.that?  I placed 2nd in my 10-year bracket.  A huge shout out to Debra from HappyRunningSole who placed 2nd overall female!  The awards were cute bobble head trophies. 


Sunday's scheduled long run was not great.  I had no energy whatsoever but I chugged along until mile 6 and called it a day.   Afterward I felt sick to my stomach for a while.  It was just one of those runs you sometimes have.  It's possible the heat and humidity are already a factor.  Please say it ain't so...

And that's a wrap!

There was a lot of racing going on this weekend!  Did you race?

What was the most exciting thing about your week?

A Beach Weekend


It started with a little toast
To half number 40 on the coast
Off to Boondocks later to eat
Out by the bay, it was a treat


Back in town at the piano bar
They’d duel with money put into their jar
A stop at Tootsie’s that’s what we need
To hear country music then we can leave



Bright and early we walked for donuts
Up to Thomas’s world famous seaside hut
We went to Destin for the race expo
And lunched at AJ's watching boats come and go
 


Back at the house the guys took a nap
But HoHo & Tricia did nothing but yap
Shades for dinner just down the way
The sunset was beautiful and in it we played


A Zombie experience later we found
Then on to Putt-Putt for a competitive round
Let’s call it a night the runners said
There’s a race in the morning and we need a bed


In the early morning dark back to Destin we went
Parking, porta-potties and off we were sent
It's beautiful!  But the wind -- what will we do?
Just keep pushing forward, take an extra GU



We conquered, we beat that finish line clock
We nibbled, we drank, we walked on the docks
The biggest medal ever, we had to take pics
Let's stop at Starbucks, Auntie Anne’s for kicks


After showers we rested, but could not sit still
Hey, let's chill on the deck of Margaritaville
So long Sippis!  Safe travels to you
Next time please stay an extra day or two


Sunday, April 17, 2016

Coastal (WW # 37)

Welcome to the Weekly Wrap!


This linkup is hosted by yours truly and my good friend Tricia at MissSippiPiddlin.    The purpose of this link is to connect with and support other active women. You can summarize your whole week or just a small portion of it.  It's up to you!  Race recaps are also encouraged!  {See rules}   

We are thrilled that we continue to have a record number of linkers each week.  Thank You!  The support and camaraderie are truly priceless.  Please return later in the week and interact with more women.   It's an excellent way to make new friends and gain invaluable support, all while holding yourself accountable!  Don't forget to comment on each blog that you read and remember to support your hosts.  


*******************************************************



I didn't do much running this week leading up to half marathon # 40.  I'll blame the rainy weather and a sore throat for Tuesday's unplanned rest day.  On Wednesday, I ran 5 miles progressive:  10:23 / 10:13 / 9:48 / 9:39 / 9:21. Thursday I awoke to violent thunder storms...PASS.   We headed to the coast Friday morning.

I did my usual physical therapy exercises (aka strength training) every other day.   Stretching, foam rolling, and planking were all thrown in for good measure.  Sadly, there was no planking PR this week! 
 
I I W I I

I did stalk the weather as I knew humidity would play a big factor in my performance at Sunday's Destin Half Marathon.  But, by Thursday I was tired of spending my energy on that and adopted the IIWII attitude. Same thing on deciding what to wear.  {Just pick it already!}  Regardless of my performance, this is a milestone and I plan to celebrate!  Tricia and Mr. Sippi will be joining us.  No doubt something fun will happen.

It's called the Emerald Coast for good reason!

Because there is no Wi-Fi connection, I didn't travel with my laptop.  It's difficult to edit my blog post on my phone -- so I'm not even going to try.   (See above ^^^^^ recently adopted attitude.)  As this goes live, I hope I'm still sitting on the beautiful sugar sands, not being blown away by the forecasted high winds, pleased with my race performance and tired from our shenanigans.  I'll just have to recap the Destin Half Marathon and weekend celebration later.  IIWII



I hope everyone had a wonderful week. 

What's next on your calendar?  I need a half marathon!

How did your training go this week?


And that's a wrap!


Wednesday, April 13, 2016

Dear Body:



Dear Body:

Are you finished with your acting out now?  Within a few months you've thrown at me: a metatarsal stress fracture, a foot neuroma, ongoing hip pain, ITB pain, tennis elbow...and the list goes on.  The last time I wrote to Your Left Foot, I asked what lesson y'all were trying to teach me.  I also tried to bargain with you, if you remember.

Can I ask what's with the age spots additional freckles, sagging skin, and spider veins?  I now see the elderly version of my Mother when I look in the mirror.  In case you didn't hear, someone shouted "YOU GO GRANDMA!" at us during our last half marathon.  Ugh!  Some days, you make me feel so old! 

I have to admit though, you are still getting me across that finish line time and again.  I'm starting to get a glimpse of paces I haven't seen in over a year.  I do realize we are celebrating half #40 this weekend and I think I see another marathon in our future too. 

Perhaps I'm being too judgmental

Instead of criticizing your obvious and unstoppable aging process, maybe it's time to embrace it. We've had some wonder experiences and I'm sure they are many more to come.  I apologize for my judgmental attitude.  Yes, it's time for me to stop.  But, I respectfully request that you don't throw anything else at me for a while.  And give it a rest on the age spots extra freckles, OK?

Sincerely,
HoHo 



Do you need to say anything to your body?
 
 

I'm linking up with Deb @ Deb Runs for the Wednesday Word.

Please visit Deb and the other participating bloggers.  It's fun!



Sunday, April 10, 2016

Tombstones & Ducks (WW # 36)



Welcome to the Weekly Wrap!


This linkup is hosted by yours truly and my good friend Tricia at MissSippiPiddlin.    The purpose of this link is to connect with and support other active women. You can summarize your whole week or just a small portion of it.  It's up to you!  Race recaps are also encouraged!  {See rules}   

We are excited that we continue to have new linkers each week.  Please return later in the week and interact with more women.   It's a truly wonderful way to make new friends, gain invaluable support, and all while holding yourself accountable!  Don't forget to comment on each blog that you read and remember to support your hosts.  


*********************************************************************


M -- Rest
T -- 4 Miles
W -- Rest (A Plank PR!)
T -- 5 Miles + Physical Therapy
F -- Rest
S -- 3 Miles (5k Race)
S -- 8 Miles

Total -- 20 Miles



My weekday runs were slow and easy.  It's all I could (and should) do after last weekend's half.  In keeping with my "run more 5ks to work on speed" plan, I ran the Resurrection Run on Saturday.  It was a beautiful and chilly morning, but warmed quickly.  My goal was to beat my previous 5k average pace.  I was pleased to run steady and clock all miles under 9.  My splits were 8:57 / 8:45 / 8:55.  My average pace squeaked in several seconds better than my last attempt.  It definitely wasn't a big improvement, but it's still in the right direction so I'll not complain.

A slight Cat in the Hat look...

I've noticed my new Garmin 225 is consistently recording race distances shorter than my old Garmin 110 -- same race, same start, same finish.  This drives my overall pace up so it's hard to make comparisons to the same race in previous years.  Anyway, my official time was 26:46 and it earned me a dual win: 1st in AG and Masters.  In full disclosure, this was a very small race!  Personally, I think they shouldn't give you two awards.  I should've been pulled out for winning Masters and the next in line should've won 1st in AG.   But, I'm not the race director.



I was awarded with a tombstone made of real granite weighing in at 5 pounds.  {What does one do with a tombstone?  Wait...no no...don't answer that!}  We watched our grandson play baseball and later PoPo worked his grilling magic on delicious bacon wrapped filets.  Our movie selection for the evening  was The Visit.  Do not bother!  It's a movie about crazy, disturbed elderly people.  Just, no.

Around bedtime -- in fact I'd already dozed off -- our middle son arrived home with ducks.  {Huh?  Peep, peep, peep.  Am I dreaming?}  Two baby ducks.  You know, the kid who is going off to college in a few months!   Which means I'm going to be a ... wait for it ... crazy mother ducker.  Bahaha -- I'm sorry I just couldn't leave than one alone!

I have to admit, they are very cute.

Sunday was another gorgeous day.  I opted for a medium distanced 8 mile run as I have another half this weekend.  Many of you asked if I have anything special planned for half # 40.  Well, I get to run across this beautiful bridge at the Kill Cliff Destin Half Marathon.  That looks pretty special to me.  MissSippiPiddlin with be there too.  Even more special!





Don't forget about the Incredible Virtual Run by Level Up.   {See that Incredible 4" medal featured at the top of my side bar?}  You can sign up until April 15th and then run the race distance of your choice from that day through April 30th.   Use code SAVE10 for 10% off the registration fee.  In addition, all participants will receive a SLS3 $25.00 gift certificate!   If you do the math, I think you'll see you come out ahead.  Please let me know if you run and I'll feature you in my post race report!

And that's a wrap!


What special pets have you mothered?

Did anyone race this weekend?  Tell me all about it!

Wednesday, April 6, 2016

Happy Birthday Wednesday Word



Happy First Birthday to you Wednesday Word! 
Try to use all of them, that's what I heard.
I'll try, Deb, with couragefortitude and heart
Motivation would help, but I'll be brave and start.

We talked commitment, friendship, accountability...
of perseverance, initiative, and being carefree.
Some weeks were challengingWe were faithful, we tried
to focus on perspective, with deprivation we sighed.

Graciousspontaneous, modest...why yes,
passionateconfident, accountable, ageless.
We were tenacious, triumphant, annoyingcautious too,
independent, complacent, and ambitious.  Who knew?

We dug deep on qualitysolitude and dreams.
Stressful, I'll be humble and admit some words seemed.
The holidays were bountiful with tradition, and joy.
Resolutions and renewal with the New Year...Oh, Boy!

We celebrate our running.  On Wednesdays we play.
With anticipation, appreciation, we cherish this day.
It's rewarding to read the shenanigans some do,
the stability some have, serendipitous fate too.

Deb, you realize your words do not rhyme?
I have optimism this will be easier next time.
Thanks to our adventurousinspirational host.
Whew!  I'll take a break now to adjust my next post.




I've channeled Dr. Suess a shameful many times!
But, I'll thank Deb again before I run out of rhymes.



I'm linking up with Deb @ Deb Runs for the Wednesday Word.

Please visit Deb and the other participating bloggers.  It's fun!





April 8, 2015 – Solitude (WW favorite)
April 15, 2015 – Spontaneous
April 22, 2015 – Rewarding
April 29, 2015 – Courage
May 6, 2015 – Dreams
May 13, 2015 – Challenging
May 20, 2015 – Appreciation
May 27, 2015 – Anticipation
June 3, 2015 – Perseverance
June 10, 2015 – Motivation
June 17, 2015 – Fortitude
June 24, 2015 – Annoying
July 1, 2015 – Independent
July 8, 2015 – Humble
July 15, 2015 – Modest
July 22, 2015 – Inspirational
July 29, 2015 – Friendship
August 5, 2015 – Commitment
August 12, 2015 – Initiative
August 19, 2015 – Focus
August 26, 2015 – Ambitious
September 2, 2015 – Accountability
September 9, 2015 – Carefree
September 16, 2015 – Cautious
September 30, 2015 – Passionate
October 7, 2015 – Tenacious
October 14, 2015 – Adjust
October 21, 2015 – Deprivation
October 28, 2015 – Perspective
November 4, 2015 – Complacent (WW favorite)
November 11, 2015 – Ageless
November 18, 2015 – Cherish
November 25, 2015 – Bountiful
December 2, 2015 – Tradition
December 9, 2015 – Celebrate
December 16, 2015 – Stressful
December 23, 2015 – Joy
December 30, 2015 – Resolutions
January 6, 2016 – Renewal
January 13, 2016 – Accountable
January 20, 2016 – Quality
January 27, 2016 – Optimism
February 3, 2016 – Heart
February 10, 2016 – Triumphant
February 17, 2016 – Stability
February 24, 2016 – Confident
March 2, 2016 – Serendipitous (WW favorite)
March 9, 2016 – Gracious
March 16, 2016 – Shenanigans
March 23, 2016 – Faithful
March 30, 2016 – Adventurous

Tuesday, April 5, 2016

It's Appreciated!




I appreciate the ability to take every stride
 
I appreciate I'll never run again without pride
  
I appreciate the simple ability to move
 
I appreciate the challenge to get back my groove
 
I appreciate my return from injury at length
 
I appreciate my health, my body, it's strength
 
I appreciate the motivation, encouragement, the tears
 
I appreciate the friendships I hope last for years
 
I appreciate the endorphins, the balance, well-being
 
I appreciate each run...and it's powerful feeling



Thanks to our wonderful hosts:

 Ericka @ MCM Mama Runs






Sunday, April 3, 2016

Centerpoint Half (WW # 35)

Welcome to the Weekly Wrap!


This linkup is hosted by yours truly and my good friend Tricia at MissSippiPiddlin.    The purpose of this link is to connect with and support other active women. You can summarize your whole week or just a small portion of it.  It's up to you!  Race recaps are also encouraged!  {See rules}   

We are excited that we continue to have new linkers each week.  Please return later in the week and interact with more women.   It's a truly wonderful way to make new friends, gain invaluable support, and all while holding yourself accountable!  Don't forget to comment on each blog that you read and remember to support your hosts.  


*********************************************************************


Monday  --  Rest
Tuesday --  Ran 4 Miles
Wednesday -- Physical Therapy
Thursday -- Rest
Friday -- Rest
Saturday -- 13 Miles
Sunday -- Cycled 20 Miles

Total -- Ran 17, Cycled 20

After feeling tired on Tuesday's run, I decided to just rest leading up to the Centerpoint Half Marathon (my 39th half).  Last week's training was pretty productive and I felt resting would be the smartest thing.  I had several inches cut off my hair this week and had to go to my double pony-tail system.  This is the only way I can get my hair up when it's too short.  



After two days of heavy rain, race day dawned clear and bright.  I decided to wear arm sleeves after seeing the temp drop to 50.  It was windy and predicted to get worse.  I also wore gloves intending to throw them out when I warmed up.  I never did, mainly because of their Kleenex-ability

I've run this race several times.  It is not totally flat having a gain of 234 feet, but the hills are manageable.  My PR is on the course, but I knew I was not in PR shape after my lengthy injury last fall.  I hoped to run strong, pace well and perhaps have a better time than my half three weeks ago.





Debra from Happy Running Sole was there.  I saw my fellow half fanatic buddy Valerie and other running friends too as this race is held in a neighboring town.   Debra and I started together while Valerie took off like a rocket (and had a great finish time with a 3rd AG placement)!   We chatted during the first mile as we were both trying hard not to go out too fast.  I dropped behind her for a while as I was determined not to overdo the beginning.  Debra had a stomach bug earlier in the week so I was very impressed with her performance.



It was great catching up and discussing upcoming races with Debra and Valerie.

The course passes through different residential neighborhoods.  There are over 60 turns so you never see a long stretch of road.  It's a continual up, down, left and right.  I think it keeps things interesting and helps break up the race.  I caught back up to Debra after my warmup and we paced together for a while.  She really helped me find my groove:  9:53 / 9:53 / 9:33 / 9:30 / 9:36 / 9:21.

Sadly, I slowed during the next few miles.  I walked too many steps at the water stops and was fretting over my left knee which had begun to feel tight.  I shortened my stride and slowed occasionally to do some high marching steps to stretch it out.  These miles reflects that: 9:50 / 9:42 / 10:00 / 10:10. 

The race provided free pictures.  I have no idea what mile this is.

The knee pain held but didn't get worse.  I pulled my pace down for the final stage:  9:37 / 9:46 / 9:18.  I continually train for a fast finish and am so proud when the last mile is the fastest!  My official time was 2:06:00 with an average pace of 9:38, although my Garmin tells a slightly different story.  In fact, my watch didn't record a full 13.1 although others did.  I came away pleased with my best half time so far this year and with the satisfaction I'm moving in the right direction.



Side Rant:  The volunteer manning one of the final turns -- which was a  male teenager or perhaps young adult -- yelled to me "YOU GO, GRANDMA!".  {Blink...Blink...Me?}  [Why yes, I am a grandmother and proud of it.  But sonny boy, do you see me running with any grandchildren here? Apparently I look rather old to you, but I am definitely not old enough to be YOUR grandma.  I suggest you never make that gem of a comment to anyone ever again!]   It is simply not what I needed to hear at mile 12.5 trying to hold pace.  Ugh...so deflating to my old ego.    Mmm-k, I feel better now.

I placed 4th in my age group, a common occurrence.  The finisher's medal is very lovely.  The tech shirt is nice, but big.   This is a well-done smaller race with a hometown feel.  They had themed water stops and people were in their yards cheering you along.  One group was dressed in Star Wars costumes and having a light saber battle.  I appreciated the effort!


We celebrated at our neighborhood Mexican restaurant Saturday night.  I love their fish tacos!  Our movie selection for the evening was Blackwood.  It's a thriller with a slightly different plot twist.  Yes, it passed my "Can you stay awake for the entire movie?" test.



Sunday I felt like I had been run over...and backed up and run over again.  It must be the "grandma" factor.  But, I took my bike off it's trainer and went on a 20 mile ride anyway.  I came away with 94 minutes of cardio with an average HR of 147.  A nice workout, I think.  Who could stay inside on a day like this?  I love the combo of blue and green and you can only see this green in early spring.

And that's a wrap!


Was the weather nice for you this weekend?

What's your favorite way to celebrate after a race?