YOU GO GIRL 10K in REVIEW

Excellent race! We had so much fun.  The morning started off at 6am.  I met my sister at the car in our driveway.  The rain was pouring.  I was excited about that.  I am a big fan of running in the rain.  Keeps you cool :).  On our way we decided to stop off in Auburn to try and hunt down a "Rain Poncho".  Instead we ended up with a latte and pumpkin bread from Starbucks.  Later on, that was a mistake.  We were worried about being cold while waiting for the race to start.  But we would rather get there to avoid the stress of finding parking.  We drove in Tacoma, no traffic which was not usual so that was a nice surprise.  We found a parking garage.  At this point, I am not ashamed to admit it, is where the mistake of the latte and pumpkin bread kicked in.  My sister enjoyed playing a trick on me in the midst of my mistake.  I asked her before we left the driveway, "do you have your chip?" and she said yes.  She slyly slipped in that she left that envelope at home (envelope contained the chip).  Of course I freaked out.  She sit there in the car seat like one of the cartoon hyenas laughing.  It reminded me of the scene from Roger Rabbit when the evil guy yells at the cartoon hyenas that if they keep they'll explode.

 

After our playful banter, part of dealing with our nerves for the race, we headed over to pay for our parking spot.  There was a line and it was moving slow.  I left my sister in that line to go to try to find a solution to my pumpkin latte and pumpkin bread problem that was making my tummy cramp.  Nothing nearby.  Ok  slightly panicked at this point because I wasn't going to be running if I didn't find a potty.   The minutes were ticking away when the pay meter malfunctioned.  Woot woot!  Free parking!  We quickly headed to the start line to find the porta potties.  My big fear was that we wouldn't make it in time.  The lines were long as they always are at races.  Our only chance was to get in line and pray.  It surprisingly moved quickly.  We made it.  I was ready to run now!  The rain poured but I didn't mind.  We were way back from the start line.  The crowd was thick.  I wanted to start kind of in the front this time.  I always end up in the back.  I haven't decided it if that was a good thing or a bad thing.  I like getting around people.  It makes me feel faster.  But sometimes you hit road blocks.  Runners running together in a line.  Next race I am lining up early so I can get a spot with my pace group.

The streets of Tacoma are a little rough.  Dump some rain of that and you reallly have to careful.  On a few spots in the course there were large metal squares that were smooth as ice.  Everyone tried to avoid them.  I went right over a  few fully expecting the possibility of having my rear end crash to the ground.  But I tip toe'd quickly over them.  No problem.

HILLS
What goes up must come down.  The You Go Girl race came complete with up and down.  We had some pretty good climbs.  I try not to be afraid of hills but the first couple miles there were some that were one right after the other.  But as soon as we came around the park up by Tacoma General we start winding back down to the water front.  Ahhhhh.  I mean it wasn't easy on those hills but the reward was great.  I was able to make up time by picking up my feet and letting gravity help out.

ARE WE DONE YET
So I looked at my inaccurately calibrated nike ipod sensor and it said I was a mile out.  I started getting nervous because I didn't see the 10K turn off anywhere.  I did see a large hill coming up.  I had developed a side ache flying down the hills so I was thinking, "geez are we suppose to done?".  Oh no.  Did I miss it.  Am I running the half marathon?  Shooot.   Then I spotted Mom and Dad.  There it was, the turn off to finish.  Wooooo!   I turned it up and turned it on.  Sprinted in.  Never finish a race just pacen' in!  Turn it up.  Beat the clock.  Make it triumphant.  As I crossed the clock said 54.06 (and ticking).

They put a plastic rainbow lay around my neck, cut my sensor off, and I was done!  Awesomeness all the way.

Nothing but flames! My sister rocken it out at the You Go Girl Race.

I met up with my Mom and Dad.  We started to be on the look out for my sissy.  So I haven't told her this but it didn't take long and there she was!  The part I didn't tell her was I didn't expect her that fast!  She was running in so awesome and so strong.  Rocketing in.  She recovered quickly and looked sensational.  I am so proud of her.  I passed her in the opposite direction during the race.  I had to fight my emotions back because it was starting to take my breath.  What a great day.  I was a little bummed the hubby and kids didn't make it down in time but they showed up.  They ended up have to park 1/2 mile away.  Gary (my three year old) did his own little marathon.  As we walked back to the car, he kept wanting to sit down on the side walk.  Poor buddy boy.  We snapped pictures but they somehow didn't make it on to my camera ; ( .   Oh well there will be other races.  The best part is the fact that I insist on wearing make up.  Why?  Why do I do it.  I need to lose the make up.  I look like a drowned RAT!  Doesn't my sister look haught?!!! Drop by her facebook and let her know click HERE.  She is so ready for a half.

Always running for CURE JM

RESULTS

Our stats were good.  I had put a goal in of getting the 10k done in 60 minutes.  I had ran on Thursday and timed myself.  I didn't make it.  But the raced proved otherwise.  My official time was 53.08 giving me a 8:34 mile.  Not too bad.  The average finishing time for the 10k was 1:17.26.  My sister finished with an above average time of 1:09.21.  YOU GO GIRL!  I placed 8th in our age bracket.  I was tiny bummed to see 5th place was awarded a bracelet.  I want a bracelet.  Oh well.  Just goes to show I have some work to do.  I love the fact that when I first started running, I didn't give a crap about the stats.  Starting to care now : ).  It's a fun numbers game.  

bib number:	2107
age:	35
gender:	F
location:	Black Diamond, WA
overall place:	43 out of 791
division place:	8 out of 168
gender place:	42
time:	53:08
pace:	8:34

TOE NAILS






I am pleased to announce that I will soon be losing my third toe nail.  My middle toe nail I have lost twice now.  My left toe is now working on lifting off.  It stung a little but I lose it proudly!  Badges of honor.  Yep. I got me some ugly ugly feet now but just above those feet are some tightening calf muscles.  All yeah baby!  My sister also got her first real cool running blood blister.  She didn't find it until afterwards.  I am so proud.  She showed it to me.  I told her it was AWESOME. True Runners!

NEW FRIENDS
The night before we went to the Spaghetti Factory in Tacoma to meet some ladies that were running in the You Go Girl race as well.  We had fun getting to know a few of them.  Tall Mom was there.  We chatted for a bit.  I really enjoyed it!  It is fun to see what running brings to your life.  Nice meeting all you girls.  You are all an inspiration.  New friends, new blogs to follow!:   Becka over at 50 Half Marathons in 50 States.  Yes, I am jealous, very much.  Check out her blog,  its great.

Check out Tall Mom's Give A Way!

http://www.tallmomontherun.com/2010/09/putsidepr-party-bucket-giveaway.html

PRODUCT REVIEW

I think this is my first.  This wasn't sent to me free to try.  I purchased this on my own from REI.  I wanted to give it chance and really break it in before I reviewed.  It's what all the cool blog kids are doing : )
My product review is a running belt.

• The Speed 2 waist pack from Nathan® keeps you hydrated so you can enjoy your surrounding without any worries.
• Sometimes your waist gets wet because the bottles leak.  *will turn pink if you use red Gatorade* *stains shirts as well.*
• Features molded holsters for quick flask access.
• Agreed, does have easy access
• Comes with two 10 oz. nutrition flasks.
• They are very hard to clean.  Mine have black stuff in the bottom that I can't get out! I put them in the dishwasher, used a bottle scrubber, still there.
• Large stash pocket for small essentials.
• Very nice pocket.  
• Airmesh moisture-wicking backing.
• Very nice, it doesn't bother me when sweating or getting to warm.
• Limited-stretch elasticized waistbelt with soft perimeter binding.
• Here is where I believe I may have the different one than the one picture here.  Mine clips in the front like a belt.  The clip as already cracked slightly where you snap them together.  I don't see if holding out much longer or at least as long as I would have liked it to for $60.00.
• Available in three sizes: SM, MD and LG.
• Carries up to 20 ounces of carbo-gel or replacement fluids.
• Perfect for long road or trail trips with water availability.
• Dimensions:
  12"(W) x 2"(D) x 4.5"(H)
• 8.00 oz.
• Product measurements were taken using size LG (36"-42"). Please note that measurements may vary by size.

When I intially purchased the belt back in July, I had the amphibious belt in my hand.  (Its the fluorescent yellow/green bottles).  It Velcro'd in the front so I was worried it wouldn't stay put.   So I purchased the Nathan Belt.  There are good things and bad things, as indicated in red.   If I wear spandex, it slides all the way around to the front no matter how tight I make it. It does feel heavy before you drink : )  But you have to pay a price for hydration on the run.   So I give this product a thumb to the side.

EXCITED

We just signed up for the You Go Girl 10k.  We, being me and my sister.  I am so excited!  Sunday, September 26th, 8:45am sharp.  The night before we are meeting up with other blog runners.  I am also looking forward to that.

Running
Running has been going well.  I feel like I am gradually getting stronger.  My normal pace I feel more and more comfortable.  I thought, "oh geeez, this can't be good.  I need to turn it up."   My body is starting to get use to it. Work work work it.  I always thought my ipod sensor is off.  Like way off.  It always felt like I was running way faster then the speed indicated.  I thought this was confirmed with the races I enter.  I always have a much better minute per mile for races.  Must be the excitement of the race that pushes me. Maybe my ipod isn't that far off.  After my run last night I felt a little run down and cold.  I had a hard time getting warm and was a little achy.  I may just do a small run and take it easy until Sunday.  This was confirmed when I tried to do Yoga this morning.  No go!  My body felt good stretching but something just feels off.  It's one of my rules.  Listen to your body.

BIGGEST LOSER
I loved loved watching Biggest Loser.  It was a huge inspiration.  I got a lot good giggles from the lady that thought she may just die.  "OH LORDY".  She tried her best!  I commend her for it.  That woman lost her three year old to cancer.  She has every right to be has dramatic as she wants.  Yes, losing your baby gives you that.  It also takes away everyones words of what they think about it.

These people are so brave.  They are so inspirational!  Every single person makes me cry.  Not because they are "big" but because they are so brave and amazing.  Not to mention I am a BIG FAN of Jillian Michaels.   I want to be her.  Well I want to be me but she is pretty great!  I love her game on stare.  It rocks!

Calling you out

*Heather Invie-Notch*

Why?  Because I know you can.

JUNE 25, 2011 LOCAL

I have a added a  new page to my blog.  It's called the TEAM CURE JM ^^^^ C it?   up there  ?  : )

So far we have Beth and Heather who have committed to running in June 2011.  Unfortunately, no local commitments has of yet.  So I decided to write about all the PRO's of committing to this awesome accomplishment.

Whether you commit and start training for the full or half, each race will be amazing.  So here are a few pf your PRO's in not particular order:

 Tight Buns-who doesn't want to look good in jeans.

Bragging Rights-enjoy the looks on people's faces when you say, "yeah, I ran 13 miles" or "yeah, I ran 26."

Muscle Tone-A lot of people don't realize that running doesn't just involve your legs.  It does do wonders but your arms, abs, even across the top of your shoulders will start to tone.  It's called a runners body and it's *hot*. 

A Shiny Medal-The medal alone is worth it!  So purdy, and its all yours.You earned it, nobody else did. 

Endorphins-Whether you have began to train or not, you can enjoy endorphins not just after your marathon.  Training bring these happy little suckers to the surface.  It leaves you feeling amazing!  There is no healthier way to achieve this feeling.  Forget alcohol, put down your drugs, all the cool kids go for this high!    Endorphins: endogenous opioid peptides that function as neurotransmitters. Endorphins boost the immune system, slow down the aging process, and reduce pain, and anxiety. Endorphins have been shown to reduce symptoms associated with eating disorders. Endorphins also regulate the production of sex hormones. Scientists have discovered that beta-endorphins can trigger human NK (Natural Killer) cells and support the immune system against diseases and kill cancer cells. 

Heart and Soul Conditioning-think its about the act of moving your muscles and breathing hard.  I am not going to lie.  It is not easy.  When running long distance, especially 26.2, it takes a whole lot more than muscles and being in shape.  You have dig deep and find it in your heart.  Too many times I find myself so emotional in the middle of run realizing why I am running.  Tapping into, "I have come this far, there is no going back."  Despite the ache and the pains, your heart will take over.  Your soul will fly to the finish if you let it.

So do it.

Do it now. 

Commit to TEAM CURE JM for Seattle Rock n Roll Marathon.

You won't be sorry.

I need some Seattle Runners.  

Even if you have told me in person or on facebook that you are running, until you leave me a note on my blog saying that you are doing it, it's not official.  

New Questions!

Wooo hooo!   New questions and reasons to answer.  Thank you Heather D. and Alyssa!

Here goes!

1.How many bugs will I have to swallow each time I am out running?


Bugs can be challenging.  Wings in the throat can certainly mess with your pace and breathing.  I say just swallow, whish down some water and enjoy the protein.  Some runs I am just not really hungry.  So I practice the bob and weave.  It's great for your abs.   






2. When will my legs start to feel like feathers instead of lead weights?
  


I have yet to achieve the feather like feel in my legs.  I will challenge you though on something I have been trying out.  During your run, put your shoulders back, look straight ahead.  Keep your arms strong.  Squeeze your abs up and hold.  Do this as long as you can.  Try starting your stride from your hips as well.  Carefully incorporating that movement into your run.  Notice how your legs and feet feel.  You won't be able to do this for  very long, well, at least I am not able to.  But I have been practicing each night I run.  I have been able to get further and further with this posture.  This has helped me feel faster, and my legs like they are not doing all the work.   


REASONS AND/OR EXCUSES


I FEEL A COLD COMING....I CAN'T RUN.


I too have felt "colds" coming on.  This can be tricky.  You obviously have to be very careful.  If you truly are coming down with something your best option is to rest.  You could aggravate your body and fall hard into your pending sickness.  On the other hand, its funny what our minds will create as a last minute ditch attempt to not have to complete a physical task.  Learn yourself.  Learn your body.  More than once I have felt not so great.  The moment my feet hit the pavement and the first mile as come and gone, that pending cold disappears.  I joke with my sister,  "I have a sore throat",   I reply with, "go run it out!"     I can't stress enough though to use extreme caution.  You will know for sure once you get out there if you truly are sick, or your head is playing tricks on you.

Introducing Heather.....committed to the half marathon June 2011

This is my friend Heather.  She is the Aunt of Mason Smedley.  Heather has been rock it with training.  She committed to running the 1/2 marathon.  I can't wait for June Heather.  Heather is from Hillsboro, OR.  Go Team Cure JM

Introducing Beth.....Committed to the 2011 Seattle Marathon: FULL

This is my friend Beth.  Her daughter is Taylor.  Taylor was diagnosed with same disease that my son has Dec.  09.  Beth has committed to the full marathon.  I am CRAZY out of my mind excited.  Here is to some virtual training BETH.  I can't wait!   Go Team CURE JM!

Weakness of Attitude becomes Weakness of Character

JUNE 25, 2011

The Seattle Rock n Roll Marathon, June 25th, 2011 is my next full marathon.  This particular event is important to me because the foundation, Cure JM, will be there.   I have been apart of this foundation since my son was diagnosed with JDM in May of 2009.  This is where I draw my inspiration from.  Recently, on my runs, I have been going over in my head how I would like to start a running group geared toward training for this event.  My friend Michelle and I have talked about started this awhile ago.  June will roll back around before we know.  I want to go by a schedule.  I want to start slow, in efforts of attracting beginners.  Gradually increasing mileage and pace.  I am registered for a class in October down in Portland, OR to get my running coach certificate.  So I am not experienced as far as coaching.   But I know exactly what its like to begin.  If anyone finds my blog and is interested in participating, leave me a comment : ).   If not, leave me excuses.  I have been collecting those as well.  I am not keeping that list of excuses to criticize anyone or make myself seem better then them.  I am keeping them so I can learn how to break you out of that reason or excuse.  The number one reason I hear for the most part is:

I CAN'T RUN THAT FAR.

Answer:  How do you know?  Have you tried?  Besides, no one is asking you to run that FAR............................yet : ).  

This particular reason is one that is loaded.  I have so much to say on it.

Some reason's are truly legitimate.  People with certain medical conditions who cannot run.  I truly would not attempt running with them because if it is truly going to harm you, you need to find another calling. 

So bring them on.  One recently I heard is: 

I CAN'T BREATH RIGHT WHEN I RUN.

Yeah, me neither.  It's not comfortable.  It's even a little traumatic.  So go ahead and sit down on the bench since your uncomfortable. *NOT*  You need to give your body that chance to get use to moving oxygen, and blood.  Your body is like a wild stallion.  It 's needs to be broken in.  Hang in there.  Keep going.  It will except it.  If you stop, your are only training your mind and body that you will stop each time.  Just keep going.

I want more.  Give me more.  I want to hear every excuse and/or reason you can give me for not starting this amazing journey.  If you want to train with me,  let me know.  I am willing to go step for step with you.

JUNE  2011 is waiting for you.

Start training now.  Slowly ramping up, avoid waiting.  If you wait to train, you risk injury by fitting in too much too soon.

FREE at Earndit.com

So I almost forgot to share my free stuff I got!!!   I have been so excited about this.  I signed up for a site called Earndit.com.  You have to be able to track your miles with a garmin or Nike ipod like I have.  You earn points for your running.  It is a great tool for motivation.  It is like a numbers game.  If that puts your running shoes on the road well then, use it!

The first free item I earned was some anti aging cream in a fancy purse from the DermStore.

It's called Life Without Wrinkles and acts as a sunscreen.
COOL!  YAY!

My next free gift I earned was jewelry!  What girl doesn't love that.

Aren't they pretty!  They are from Amandasterret.com .  If I would have paid for these, they would have cost me 65.00 clams!  So I am very excited.  Mommies like me don't get treated to jewelry very often.  We have babies to buy for first.

Next free thing I learned from Shut Up and Run's blog.  Free running socks! I am not sure if they have any left but all's I did was sign up and put my address in and they are on there way.  Here is the link if you are interested.   www.powersox.com/coolmax.  

Ahh long runs

Off in the distance is one big
hill.  No I didn't stop.

I had quit the week last week so I was looking forward to a nice long run during our Labor Day weekend camping trip.  I got one in!  It felt amazing.  Ok.  It hurts, but the reward is more than you can wrap your mind around unless you do it.  I have found with the more I run, the greater or the more I feel those endorphines release.  I did  thirteen miles with a lot of kick butt hill work.  At least 2 miles of up hill.  My thighs were popping after I was done.  I took Sunday off and started back in again on Monday.  My goal this week is to run everyday.  Not miss any days.  That in itself is challenge with the schedule.  Monday I had my first fall run.  Ran in the down pour rain.  It was very very difficult to get myself out there. I just wanted to curl up on the couch with a glass of wine and watch a movie.  Once I got on the road, I felt better and was able to forget the images of the couch.  My husband kept saying, "it's raining now".  I told him if you let the rain stop you, you will let anything stop you.

My Next Race
So I am toying with the idea of doing a half marathon here in my home town Black Diamond.  It's coming up quick, on the 26th.  It's a small race so it will be humbling as I am sure I will be last.  But it will give me a chance not to hide in the crowds.  The run is at Nolte Park.  I have run there before.  The cost is 40 dollars so we shall see.