A Mere Mortal Can Still Have Goals! :)

In my last post I admitted that it has been 3 weeks since my last run. This was a major set back to the progress I was making in increasing my ability to run 10 miles straight. Paired with this discouragement I missed out on the half marathon I had been planning for months. I find the best medicine to help get over running set backs and disappointments is to make new goals. Rip off that band aid, followed by picking a new race. Ignore your body's whining pain and come up with a new schedule to and an area that needs improvement. As I wallowed in my depressed funk last night after realizing I was not going to participate in the Rock Canyon Half Marathon, I browsed the Running in the USA website in search for my next race. As I realized that there were not many half marathon options in the winter time, I decided it would be best for me to focus on my 5K and 10K time. Then, POW! I have a plan!

This is really all happening with timing that couldn't be better since next week is my last week of Fall Term. That means I can start my training program this week! Research! This means that Jessi gets to research some strength training circuits and some plans to incorporate more speed work intervals!

Right now, my mile averages at about 10-11 or sometimes even higher depending on where I am running. I would like my mile to average 9 -10 minutes. When I race a 5K I tend to finish  the race in around 32-34 minutes. Not horrible, but not great. My 5K races need to be 30 min or less to be where I want them. To do this I know I need to strengthen my legs, arms, and core to help prevent my body from giving up. I also need to focus on speed work to get my lungs and heart used to some extra pumping. Focus, focus, focus!

Here is the crazy part to all my planning: I am considering participating in the Winter Series in Colorado Springs! There are 4 races through out January and February. It might be a fun way to keep my workouts interesting during the cold winter months. One concern I have is about the weather. I am nervous if snow prevents me from making one of the races. I am still considering it, I am giving myself until I return from Oregon for Christmas to commit to it. If I don't commit to these 4 races I will do other races or will commit to a couple of them. I am going to do the St Patrick's Day 5K again, that is for sure! I want to beat last year's time of 32:39!

The Part-time Runner's Disappointments

I was supposed to run in the Rock Canyon Half Marathon here in Pueblo, Colorado this morning. Unfortunately, when I was looking for my bib number online last night my name was not on the list! I remember submitting the form online with the plan to give it a couple days for my app and payment to process. Apparently I got busy and never went back to double check until the night before the race.  When I pulled up the registration list I found that my name was missing! I was beyond devastated. I sent Michael a teary text and angrily searched through my bank account and all my credit cards looking for the charge. Michael responded in his unwaveringly, cool headed way and reminded me that I could still go run in the morning. Registration for the race was closed, so that was out but I could go out for my own race.

This morning I got up and laced up my shoes for the first time in 3 weeks! My run today was not my best run ever. My legs, lungs, and endurance were all a little weak from my time off causing me to struggle through 9 of the 12 miles I ran today. To be exact by distance was 11.65 miles and it took me 2:52:04. Before I started this 11:65 mile run/walk I took my dog Frank for a mile walk. Today was a beautiful day for a run. The weather was a clear 60-65 degrees with a breeze at the beginning. My nose did run the entire time leaving my Kleenex soaked by the end of the run. Gross, but true.

When I go for my long runs I always do an out and back run to ensure that I don't quite early. This time on my way back to the house I decided to cross the 4th Street bridge and walk up to Court Street instead of going down to Union Avenue from the Arkansas River Trail. Let me tell you, I am once again reminded of why I cut 4th street from my route! It is a horrible, noisy, smelly road with too many cars! I prefer going down to Main Street or Union Avenue which leads me through some pretty streets with shop owners that care about their store front. The 4th street bridge is nice but any variation to get from the 4th Street  Bridge and Court is ugly and not worth it.

While my decrease in speed and ability is a discouraging set back, it is what comes with being a being a part-time runner. What matters to me most is that I got out there and went the distance. My muscles scream at me that I have done something active today. Something that remained in my thoughts as I walked sorely back to the house was that I was sedentary for only 3 seeks because of my sickness and then some major school assignments that took over my free time. Only 3 weeks! 3 weeks was all it took for my body to resort back to disliking a nice long run. This encourages me to keep my legs moving to matter what it takes. Even if I can only make it out the door for a walk around the block or the park with Frank, I need to keep my legs moving!

Wherever your fitness level is, keep going. Keep pushing yourself. It is just you and the road. Anyone can do it you just have to get up off the couch and start.

Sick = No Running

I have been sick for the last week which means I haven't been able to go running I over a week! I am itching for a run but am not sure when I will make it out for one. My next half marathon is right around the corner and I don't feel as ready as I would like to be. I wish that my time would allow for more runs, but school, work and a social life keep me busy. The fact that he says are shorter doesn't help either...

There have been several matters buzzing round my brain lately. It would be nice to get out there to run through the foggy thoughts clouding my mind. We will see if the congestion clears up some more by this weekend.

1st Half Marathon

On September 3, 2012 I ran in the American Discovery Trail Half Marathon in Colorado Springs, Colorado. My chip time was 2:42:52, which averages out to be a 12 minute mile. I am ecstatic with my time.  Heck, I am ecstatic that I finished! The whole day was a remarkable experience. I cannot wait for my next one! 

The day started with a 5am wake up call. I was excited and antsy so I had no trouble hopping out of bed at such an ungodly hour! Michael, the excellent boyfriend that he is, agreed to drive me up to the race. While I ran he relaxed at a nearby cafe waiting for his crazy girlfriend to cross the finish line. 

As I crossed the Colorado Avenue bridge to get to America The Beautiful Park, I met a gal named Christina who was also running her first half marathon. Her fiance was running the Marathon and she decided to run the half to be supportive. We shared our anxious, butterfly in the tummy feelings as we crossed the bridge together. Having someone to talk to in those moments before the race helped ease the anxiety.

6:30am - The gun shot. 501 crazy humans began their 13.1 mile trek. About a mile after the gunshot there was a group of people clapping and yelling encouraging words to the runners. I couldn't help but chuckle to myself since this was only mile 1 leaving 12.1 more miles in front of us, it seemed a little soon to be telling us good job... Around mile 3 I encountered my second race "friend." As I passed this guy yelled, "I F@%$-ing love Colorado, I F-ing love this state!..." along with more expressions of endearment for how wonderful Colorado is. I kind of smiled to myself thinking yes, Colorado is beautiful I'm glad I live here but didn't really acknowledge him other than that. Then, as I fell back in line in front of them he yelled, "this is the best place ever, except maybe Portland, Oregon. I f-ing love Portland, Oregon..." This was too good to pass up. While running I turned to him, did a fist pump, and agreed "YES! I love Portland! I am from Portland! It is a fantastic city!!!" And with that, we had bonded.

During this run, this looong run, I didn't have my headphones...I know...big mistake. The organizers had discouraged them and I decided to comply. Bad idea. Music provides a boost in energy when your legs want to quit. A song can kick me into gear, pushing me faster and farther. Music would have been especially helpful after mile 7 when my muscles felt tight and the idea of running another 6 miles seemed unbearable. 

Finally, I re-entered the America the Beautiful Park! Thank God! Michael was at the finish line taking photos, and I almost started crying! I made it! I finished a half marathon! I RAN 13.1 MILES!!!
Christina finished a few minutes behind me and was in disbelief that she made it! She was also extremely happy to be done and could now cross this off her bucket list. Colorado Lover saw me and called out "Hey Portland, good job!" we high-fived and congratulated each other. Meeting a few people while on the trail made not listening to music worth it.

To finish off my amazing morning, as we were walking up to my car this gal saw my Oregon sticker in my back window and asked, "who's car is this!?" Finally, after 3 years of having this sticker in my window someone had noticed and remarked on it! "It's my car!!!" She was from Oregon City, Oregon. Yep, we bonded briefly. It was satisfying.

I am proud of my accomplishment and I look forward to my next Half Marathon on December 1st!

Sore, sore, sore!

This morning I am feeling more sore than I have ever felt before. Yesterday I ran 2 miles, no problem, did an hour of yoga and to top it off I went rock climbing holy moly do my arms HURT. I woke up in the middle of the night and had to stretch and take a pain killer because my body hurt so bad. It was most likely a combo of being sore and falling asleep in a bad position because I was so tired!

Today I have a 10 mile run planned! Will I make it? Lol. Lifting my coffee cut hurts!

Quote to consider

If one can stick to the training throughout the many long years, then will power is no longer a problem. It's raining? That doesn't matter. I am tired? That's besides the point. It's simply that I just have to.

Emil Zatopek, Olympic runner

Frankie's Couch to 5K ... or floor to 5K

 Last Saturday marks the first day Frankie has joined me as my running partner. We did a one mile lap around the Mineral Palace Park. After the mile I dropped him off at home and did my second mile alone. This morning I took Frankie with me for a 2 mile run. He did pretty well considering his activity level has consisted of chasing squirrels for the past couple years. During mile 1 he was almost pulling me along as we ran through a grassy stretch. Towards the end of mile 2 Frankie started to lag behind me. I think 2 miles is his max right now. As he gets more comfortable with the idea of running with me and his body acclimates to the constant activity I will increase our mileage. Not only is this going to be a test to his endurance but it will also test and strengthen his manners on the leash...I hope.

Frankie is my 6 year old English Cocker Spaniel. This goof ball has been my companion since he was a baby puppy just old enough to be away from his mom. Back when he was a puppy I lived in Reno, Nevada. On a regular basis I would take him to the dog park to let him run around the huge field and socialize with other dogs. His favorite friends were a huge, black Newfoundland and a puppy mastiff who didn't realize how long and lanky he was. The way these dogs would play with Frankie was hilarious! The Mastiff would swing his hips around and knock Frankie on the ground and sit on him. The Newfoundland would bound around as Frankie tried jumping for his ears. Frankie would run around the grassy field, bounding here and there, playing with all the dogs.

Then, I moved back to Oregon and my ex went back to Reno. After this, my free time went out the door as I worked from 8:30am to10pm or sometimes until midnight. I had two jobs, American Family and Starbucks. I still took Frankie for walks around the block, runs at parks and to even to the dog park whenever possible. We would go on hikes around the Gorge and around Silverton Park. Unfortunately, he didn't get as much exercise and attention as he needed. What was worse was that I lived in an Apartment so he would spend those long days alone. He managed all right but many of his social skills and training died.

Now I live in Pueblo, Colorado in a house with a big yard. Frankie spends his days running back and forth along the fence line chasing squirrels and napping under the small sunflowers by the front fence. I take Frank for walks every so often but I have honestly earned an F in that department. Since I am planning to add more short runs spreadout through my week I think it is a great time to break him into running with me.



Frankie before his last trip to the groomers. What a shaggy dirty dog! :)

 If I can run 2 miles at least 3 or 4 mornings a week that will knock out 6-8 miles.
Then, if I can run Saturday and Sunday making Sunday my long run. I should be able to get 20 miles in each week. I know some will get more than others but if I am in this mind set and have a plan for when my options to run are...perhaps I will have more motivation to get out there.

2 miles is quick! Frankie will appreciate it and my body will also love it. I feel so much better after a run! The only part I still need to work out in my mind is my eating schedule... that is more complicated. Perhaps it is time to plan some crockpot meals! This term will be a test to how planned and organized I can be! Bare with me as I struggle through the weeks and months to come!


This is Frankie and I on a hike in Oregon back in 2008



Frankie and his old friend Tyson. They were best friends when I lived in Reno. Look how small by pup is! :)

Mornings Peace & Yoga's Affirmation

This morning my Simple Abundance reading encouraged me to let Mother Nature nurture me. Explaining how humans are naturally inclined to find peace while outside in natural surroundings. Looking up at the sky through the trees. Listening to water flow down stream. Smelling a flower. I feel connected to mother nature as I sit on the front porch with my coffee in the morning. The sun peaks through the trees. Our tomato bushes with their green glow, sunflowers attracting little finches and their twittering noises.... I love spending time in our garden, at a park or anywhere that drips of beauty and tranquility. I have even been known to find a peace while wondering neighborhoods in Portland, Oregon.

On Friday mornings I have been going to yoga at the Nature Center here in Pueblo, Colorado. I love flowing through the moves, listening to the wind in the trees and the sound of the river. Even at 6:30 am when I am tired this experience is terrific. I love the feeling I have after I'm done and I'm on my way back to the real world. I feel ready for the day. More at peace.

Today I had my morning coffee on the front porch. I found my morning peace, read my daily Simple Abundance and started my day. After work I rushed over to Open Studio Yoga. I was right on time and it was a packed room. The only spot left for my mat was right in front of the big, green money tree. A few of my "flat backs" between my 'forward folds" put my head into the bush. I had to laugh inside as I flowed through the Vinyasa moves. Even while inside doing yoga, Mother Nature was asking me to join her today.

9 miles and feeling good

9 miles. Wow. I did it and I did it in decent time. It was about 80-86 and sunny while I was running. Luckily there was a nice breeze. I started at the footbridge by the river in Hyde Park and ran 4.5 miles toward the dam. My turn around point was a beautiful spot just before the dam. There were fishermen down the river, it was a little piece of paradice. There was a picnic table which makes me desire to go back for a picnic! That would be a good date for Mike and I. I took a photo while I was taking a quick break. The run back to my car was where I felt the burn. I did a good job at coaxing myself to pick up the pace and keep running. I ran during each mile, only allowing myself to walk briefly to catch my breath before pushing myself faster again.

Yesterday I ran 2 miles and went to 2 Yoga classes at Open Studio Yoga. Frankie came with me for one of my miles. During the next several weeks I am planning to bring Frankie on more runs. I'd like for him to be with me when I run on the trail sometimes, especially when I run in the evening. Maybe taking him on two miles each morning would be a good start. 2 miles is just enough to wake me up but not enough to create a huge time commitment. He needs to get out more, to work out that English Cocker Spaniel energy and potential for rage. He plays with the squirrels every day running back and forth along the fence line but he needs more exercise. I will need to work more short runs into my schedule anyway to help me keep my weekly miles up while also getting everything else done. If I am going to maintain 20 miles a week and still reach for my half marathon goal I will need to be creative with my time.

My goal during this term is to run 20 miles a week until I run my half marathon. I can train myself to wake up at 6 am everyday but any earlier is not going to happen. My Sunday Long Runs absolutely have to be outside. Since my race will be outside I will need to make sure I am used to the various climates. My plan of the moment is to run a Half Marathon in December here in Pueblo. This means I need to develop tolerance for running in the cold weather.
This will be a time of upping my game and pushing myself I do things I don't immediately want to do. Time to wake up earlier than I wish. Windy? Get your butt out there! Snowing? Get that butt moving! 6am and cold? Too bad! Lol, we'll see how it goes but I think I can manage to keep my miles up for the most part.

*Fingers Crossed*

4.5 miles in at my turn around point

Focus - Driven with purpose

August is about to begin. What will this new month bring to me? Tomatoes from the garden, squash, more lazy summer nights... Wait, forget about the lazy nights because my life is about to turn become crazy busy requiring me to focus and practice flawless time management. On August 13th fall term will begin and I will be drowning in college assignments once again.
August through December my time will be split between:
1. Michael
2. Running
3. College courses (math and composition 2)
4. Homework
5. Yoga

Focus and Balance will be my mantras to help me through coming months. Attempting to balance quality time with Michael while still getting my miles in and passing my classes? This will be a challenge but one I must succeed at if I am ever to accomplish all my goals while still connecting properly with my sweetheart.

"We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence therefore is not an act but is a habit." - Aristotle

Time to practice excellence! For me excellence will consist of: waking up early, using my time wisely, expanding the hours in a day by using every second in the day with purpose. "Do what you don't want to do now, so you can do what you want to do later." This was a quote from a sermon I listened to a while ago. (that's right, I am a closet spiritual seeker. I read teachings from various religions and listen to the teachings of Christian pastors). What I like about the quote above is that with discipline goals are accomplished and the outcome is freedom later. This is the perfect reminder for me right now. If I focus on working towards all my goals now I will not only accomplish them but I will be free from their burdens later. When I say burdens I am referring to the college courses and homework... Finishing my degree has been a dark, looming cloud above my head, a goal that was set but never finished. If I can focus and finish, I will have my degree and will be free to focus my attention on something new, a new aspiration.

As I move forward my mantra words are: Focus, Balance and Discipline.
"Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishments." Jim Rohn

I can do this. :)

Run to the Shrine

On the morning of Saturday, May 19, 2012 I ran in the Run to the Shrine 10K race. The race started down by the Broadmoor Hotel at about 6,800 feet then, went up, up, up to the Shrine above the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo then came back down to the zoo to finish. The race course has a challenging 8.5% gradient increase from the base of the Zoo up to the Shrine. Once you make it to the Shrine you are at 8,100 feet.

I ran what I could. My first mile was within my average mile pace at about 10:20 then I slowed down after that. I ran as much as I could but once I was through the lower portion and was going up the mountain I slowed down to a power walk pace. Those 4 miles middle mikes that took me up, up, up were grueling! I wonder if I could have pushed myself faster, running more frequently up the mountain. This was a fantastic challenge that has pushed me further towards my goal.

I love the feeling of accomplishment a race provides. Sure, I didn't win but I did it! I pushed myself to not only complete my first 10K but to also complete it on a challenging course!

My race time was 1:18:30. Not bad! This is a 12:39 mile pace. I know my first mile was an average time. I ran it in just over 10 minutes and my last mile was done in 8-9 minutes. The middle 4 were all 12-13 minute miles. Next year I will do this race again and will try to do it in 1 hour no more than 1:10. I know I can do it if I keep running and keep challenging my body with inclines between now and then.

Today my legs are SORE! I can barely walk my thighs hurt so badly! Is it weird that I love the feeling? It means I did something out of my comfort zone. I pushed myself out of the normal and accomplished something difficult and rewarding.

Spank Blasing 5K, 10K and Walk

Michael and I after our races.

On April 21, 2012 Michael and I both raced in the Spank Blasing Race. Michael decided to go for the 10K and I did the 5K. We weren't ablt to register prior to race day so in the morning we rushed down to the registration office, weaved through all of the people and paid to participate. Michael was in awe of how many healthy people were there! Participating in a race with a big group of people reminds you that you aren't alone, it is like a big running club event.  

When the race started I was feeling good. The sun was out and warm, I was ready to go. The gun goes off, I stepped on the blue pad and was off. My first kilometer was great! According to Endomondo my first mile was ran in 9:18. Not bad! This was before the course became completely uphill! I did my best to run up, up, up for a while then I had to walk. My second mile's time was 11:17 and the third was 11:14. I did my best! Endomondo's time was slightly different than my chip time. According to my chip time I ran the 5K in 33:18. Not bad in my opinion.

What I love about races is that it reminds me of how much work I have to do before I reach my goals. At the same time it shows that I can do it! A year ago I wasn't running 5K races. I was barely able to run a mile! Now, I am a runner!

When I crossed the finish line I was shocked! Michael was already there! I knew he would have a better time than me, no question but since he was running the 10K I figured I would have at least 5 minutes to get water and relax for a second before cheering him accross the finishline. Apparently there was a slight mix up on the course. He has already planned his next 10K race so he can finish and see what his time is. I believe he is running in a Cinco De Mayo run.

It was a great experience!
 

Here we are post race enjoying our "free' beer. I need new shorts...

This is the race map.

Mothers Running

Runners World has helped provide insight into the ins and outs of running. I receive the magazine monthly and devour the information within a few days. In Runner's World's special Spring/Summer issue of "The Trail" There is an article called The Mother Load. Basically the article talks about amazing women runners who also happen to be mothers. As a childless woman this article does two things, first it makes me feel like a complete slacker because I have a hard time working running into my day just being a single girl with no kids. These women run marathons or ultra trail not only do they run intense elite trail races, they also have kids and husbands to think about and plan around. I have a boyfriend and a dog...is that close? Haha, no. The second thing the article topic udid was almost prevent me from reading the complete article. My life is great, but I do feel behind in some aspects like having kids and a husband. After a couple days of avoiding the article I finally dove in, and I am glad I did.

Before going into detail these amazing women that should inspire every mother to slip on those running shoes to go run. I will just list off what made me feel a bit better about my status in life. The women were all in their 30's with young children! Kasie Enman, she went to Albania for the World Mountain Running Championships, she was 32and had a 13 month old. Another mom Darcy Africa, a 37 year old from Boulder, she has a 3-year-old. She placed third in a recent 103-mile Ultra-Trail Du Mont Blanc.

Basically, these women for whatever reason started having children later in life, later being in their 30s. Me being 27 with no kids doesn't seem as bad (I just can't compare myself to my cousins who have it all). I still want children, I think I will be an amazing, supportive mommy, but I am encouraged that I can do a few great things in life still before having kids whenever they happen to join me...

Life is unpredictable. You go with the punches and make the most of the hand given to you. Sometimes you also have to make a random change to get the current flowing again...

Tomorrow is another day and I need to fit 5 400 meter repeats into it somehow.

Time to get my butt in gear

A year ago I started running because I felt like my life was a little stagnant. Life was great, I was working full time, meeting up for beers with my boyfriend after work, other friends would usually join us. Even though my life was so good and full, I felt stagnant. I was having a great time but I was leaving several goals on the table. There was no progression with my desires to finish my degree or start a family. I still had debt I wanted to pay off. My work life felt almost boring! I love my job but I needed more in my life. It was time for a change. So, I started running!

Over the last year I have found that running is something I can do for me. I run because after a fun I feel accomplished. Maybe I'm not the fastest one out there but I'm still out there. A year later I still love running. Allergies might try to defeat me but I press on!

Is my life where I want it to be? That is a debate in my brain. Life is good right now. Yet I'm turning another year older and it is time to re-evaluate and readjust my goals.

In the last year I have:
1. Started going back to school.
2. I ran a 5K race
3. My car is now in my name and other debts are lower-- this is all great progress!

There are other little accomplishments but these are the top 3 I can think of. What will my 27th year look like? I have some major plans! One plan is I am going to run at least one half marathon before May 2013. I am going to take summer term off and build up my running time. By the end of the summer--maybe September-- I will run a half marathon. Maybe by next spring or summer I can reach the marathon level!

This is the plan I will use to guide my progress: http://www.halhigdon.com/training/51132/Half-Marathon-Intermediate-Training-Program

I will start with a mutated version of Hal Higdon's Novice 2 and his Intermediate plan until I am done with spring term. Once spring term is complete the hard core training begins!

Higdon's training plan will challenge me to increase my strength level. I'm already at the point where I can run 20 miles a week as long as I have time, now I need to increase my strength, speed and endurance.

My spring and summer will be focused on my favorite hobbies, running and gardening!

Time to pick few more 5K races and a 10K race I think!

My 5K Race Cherry is Popped ;)

Pre-Race! My friend Victoria and I were excited!

St. Patricks Day 2012 marks the day my race virginity was officially tarnished! This was the first time I have ever ran with so many people! The St. Patricks Day Race enticed over 3,000 green runners to join the fun. Tejon st. and Acacia Park was turned into a sea of green hair, shirts, tutus and other extravagant green outfits! One guy even had on a large leprechaun head, another was wearing a Santa Claus outfit (I think he missed the memo on the green).

The St. Patrick's Day 5K was a fundraiser for a fountain in the park. The fountain is Uncle Wilber. Uncle Wilber apparently draws young and old to play in the fountain during the summer time. The fountain was originally donated to the Pikes Peak region but the maintenance required is expensive, so Colorado Springs hosts this run to help pay for it.

St. Patricks Day 5K Link

Overall the St. Patty's Day 5k fed my need for a good run, gave me a stress free first race experience and encouraged me to train for my next goal!

Race-eve:
The excitement for the race began the night before when Victoria and I drove up to Colorado Springs to pick up our bibs and t-shirts. We were extremely disappointed to discover they didn't have any t-shirts in our size! The t-shirt symbolizes the experience! We were bummed. At least they will mail it to us in the next few weeks.

After getting our bibs we enjoyed a nice dinner with Michael at The Ritz Grill on Tejon. Since it was Friday night Victoria and I allowed ourselves to indulged in just ONE beer. As novice runners the threat of beer slowing our already slow times was heavy. One beer and a 45 minute drive home.

As I was trying to fall asleep that night my brain was running with excitement. My mind buzzed with the though that 'TOMORROW IS RACE DAY!!!' It was like Christmas Eve for a kid or the first day at a new school. Anxiety and excitement overwhelmed me. What was I to wear!? How would it go!? Who would be there? Would I make a fool of myself!?

Race Day:
The next morning I woke up with thoughts about the race still monopolizing my brain. I made myself stay in bed until 7am but was awake by 6am....

By 8am I had my duffel bag full of different outfits (just in case we did something inactive after the race like having several beers), my climbing shoes and other things I thought I might want while in Colorado Springs. You never know what you'll need, it is best to over prepare especially when you are 45 minutes away from home!

Victoria and I arrived in Colorado Springs by 9:30 am, 30 minutes before the gun went off. The parking lot we found cost just $4 but only took cash. I scrounged up $3.50 from my purse but the attendant insisted on $4... so, I wrote a check...for $4!

Once we arrived at Acacia Park I was immediately overwhelmed by the number of people! Tejon was a sea of green. Our pre-race time was spent in the long port-a-potty lines, watching all the random people and looking for pins for our bibs...despite our over prepared duffle bags, we forgot the little pins needed to hold our race number on place! I also bought this cool fabric belt that you can out your keys, credit cards and phone in while you run. I will post more about this later.

The Race!!
Standing in the crowd waiting for the race to start, we assessed our green competitors and their crazy outfits. This lady next to us was stressing about just making it to the finish line. (it is only 3 miles... Even if you walk, anyone could make this distance!)

Bang! Everyone starts running... Errch! Stop. Each runner had to step on the long box at the start line so the computer would recognize the chip on our shoe. The chip held our bib number and is how the officials come up with our finish times.

Finally, I was off! I weaved through all the people. Trying to find a good pace away from the slower runners. It welt good to be zooming along! According to my Endomondo Iphone App I ran my first mile in about 9 min and 40 seconds. I was doing good. I loved cruising around people, even going up on the side walk to avoid people. Unfortunately, I slowed down after that. The sun was beating down in me, I didnt have water, and I kept letting myself slow to a walk! My Endomondo said the 5K finished before the race actually finished. I kept going straight for the finishline. Victoria passed me during the last mile. I saw her pass then was able to wave at her during one of the switchbacks in the race.

"What is chip timing? 
Chip timing is computer timing.  You are given a D-tag timing chip to wear on your shoe. Start mats and finish mats are used at each race. When your shoe crosses over the mats, your time starts and ends automatically.  Generally, chip timing is much quicker and more efficient than manual timing." For more about Chip Timing: Chip Timing Link

My chip finish time was 32:39.
Out of women in my age bracket I was 156/326.
Overall women I was 758/1821

I wanted my time to be closer to 30 minutes but I will accept 32 minutes. Now I have a personal record to beat at my next race. Of course I will have to consider whether the next race is flat like this one was or if it has a more complex terrain.
After I finished we headed straight for her car. I needed water and there were so many people in the park we couldn't see what they had set up as far as food and water. Once at her car my sinuses went nuts. I sneezed and blew my nose for 10 minutes. Apparently I have allergies in Colorado at this time of year, especially in Colorado Springs! For the first time in my life I understand how horrible my Brother feels during most of spring and summer in Oregon!

After Race:

Victoria and I weaved through all the people waiting for the St. Patrick's Day Parade to start down Tajon to Jack Quinn's Pub for a pint of beer. While we were there a man collapsed. Never a dull moment! He just, boom, fell like a tree. He got up again said he was ok, then fainted again. The paramedics came soon after that. Poor guy! I hope he is ok! We left before we saw the conclusion. Lunch and Rock Climbing was still on our agenda for the day.

Now it is time to pick out a new race!

Tons of People!  Pre-race.

After the race and after I freshened up from my sinus attack. We are ready to go find some beer!

Lots of feet ready to run!

Beers at Jack Quinn's Pub

Traverse Climbing - Time Maintenance

On Saturday my friend Victoria and I went rock climbing for a second time. I am amazed at how this activity truly works all my muscles. I love how climbing not only challenges my body but it also challenges my mind. Every type of climb forces me to solve a puzzle. How will I get up this route? Where will my hand go next? Slowly as my body and mind allow I proceed towards my goal. This trip Victoria and I tried traverse climbing for the last hour and a half.

Traverse climbing is a type of climbing where you move horizontally along the rock wall. In a climbing gym it usually remains close to the ground. I fall frequently so I appreciate the low height. I have witnesses several people who move across the wall in a fluid manner; I long for that perfection in my climbing.

Traverse climbing was a fantastic activity because it helped with my technique without the worry of the harness and falling. I can practice different hand and foot placements worry free.

As I am laying here trying to fall asleep I am thinking about one of the vertical routes I tried that stumped me and am trying to think of another technique that we found while traverse climbing.

The route up the wall is easy at the beginning but just over half way up it becomes tricky. At the top the surface becomes like an upside down stairway. I can get right below the first ceiling. To advance further the only options are a pinch hold for your hand and some small foot holds. If I could get myself just a foot higher there is a good rock on the first ceiling that I could grip to help pull myself up to the next level. I know I will achieve victory someday! I think maybe one of the new techniques this guy showed us might help me nail the challenge.

I know I can do it. There was another spot where I almost fell but I managed to get up and over the triangle build out in my way. I love the feeling of achievement this sport brings! I wish I didn't have to wait two weeks to go again! :)

A brief statement about my time management. I am disappointed I only rain 5 miles last week. I aimed to run more but due to school and my social life I failed. Perhaps this week I will do better. I need to rework my schedule to fit everything in. This will take time so I need to allow myself time for the adjustment.
Here are my tasks:
A. Be a good girl friend
B. school
C. Running
D. Work 40 hours

These all of these require a chunk of my time.

I'm a woman, hear me roar. I will figure this out!!! I will! :)

Cheers to my arm muscles being sore. Doesn't it feel great when your muscles come alive!?

I just ran 5 miles bitches!

Yay! Although, what really shows my improvement is if I can run at least 10 or 11 miles this week. My plan is to also run on Friday and Sunday this week. I will run a little on Saturday depending on how rock climbing goes.

Oh man now I just want to go home to stretch and eat!!

English Composition 121- Day 1 - The divorcee's Lot

Before class started I went up to let the instructor know that my last name would be updated to Jeffery in the next day or two. His immediate response was "congratulations." Dear lord! To correct him or not to correct him!? Just because a person changes their last name doesn't mean they just got married!
He meant well though so instead of correcting him I just replied with my thanks and moved on.

Changing my name back to Jeffery was a fabulous event. I took back my childhood name...my identity. Anyway, hopefully this is the last time I will have to actually discuss my name change and divorce. I am a Jeffery and that is all there is to it!

The class went well. We read through the syllabus and experienced normal class introduction conversation.

Attending English Composition and reviewing my College Algebra class today has made me wonder how I am going to fit running into my schedule when I will also need to commit time to class and homework?

My current idea to help sneak running in is to add a couple morning runs into my week. I need to be 10K capable by May 6th!! The problem is the cold weather and my aversion to waking up early will prevent me from running out the door.

To help with the cold, I am thinking about getting a jacket for my runs. Right now I don't have anything to wear when the weather is extremely cold. I need a jacket, gloves, a hat to cover my head and ears as well as whatever else I find! The question is how to afford it?? I guess that is something I will need to figure out as I look for the needed items.

As for my aversion to waking up early... Wish me luck because that is not easily remedied.

Time to sleep! Today was a long day and tomorrow will be a running day.

Cheers to pursuing a challenge! :) LIFE should always be a challenge in some way.

*Side note- I am excited to see how my writing ability improves over the next several months! Yay for self improvement!

Work + College + Running Goals

I am starting this post while standing in line at the Pueblo Community College Bookstore. As I wait, I am only able to think about how eager and anxious I am to find out how my life as a full time employee, student and runner will work! Good bye free evenings, hello homework! Bring it on, I'm going to survive this addition to my schedule!

Tomorrow is my first day in my English class. Hopefully I will be able to start my math class tonight. I suppose we will see!!!

To be continued it is finally my turn! YES!

The line at the bookstore went back for what seemed to be ages but in the end it went remarkably quick! I was impressed!

How do I feel post bookstore? I feel like my two classes better teach me a hell of a lot despite the little books! The online College Algebra course just gave me a virtual log in code and my English Composition 121 course only had me purchase two small books that I can fit into my purse! On one side I appreciate these little items but on the other side I am extremely disappointed!! I always felt like I was getting way more for the $100 purchases when the books were huge! As it is I only feel like I spent about $200 on nothing. I am positive I will feel better once class starts.. Teachers always have a way of adding value to their book selections.

Now that I vented my disappointment I will also add that the english books are rather dense with information despite their light weight and small size.

Boy did I feel the stair workout I did last night as I went back and forth to my car! Before my bookstore experience, I had arrived on campus tonight by about 4:30. I talked to admissions about changing my last name from Swanson to Jeffery, just a minor technicality...anyway...I love when I feel my workouts in my muscles! The feeling means that I have accomplished something!

Next on the list tonight? My financial aid entrance seminar. I have to go learn about what loans mean to me. I want to tell them, "darlings, I have more experience with student loans than most. Just give me the damn money!" However, I understand that this is just a requirement they have for all students. So here goes an hour of my time!

Peace!

A Rock Climbing Adventure

I have decided that this year is the year to take my goals to the next level. I am going to run a 5K Race on St. Patty's day, I'm going to run a 10K this year and I wanted to try a new way to cross train. Rock Climbing!

Lucky for me my friend Victoria also wants to try new activities. She agreed to come rock climbing with me! I figure if I want to make the most of my trips to a rock wall, I need a partner so we can belay for each other.

Yesterday we started our rock climbing adventure! We drove to Sport Climbing Center in Colorado Springs to our first rock climbing lesson. We had a lesson from 9-11am. The cost if this lesson came with the shoe rental, harness and belay clip as well as a day pass.

The lesson went well. There was one other student named Eric. Eric's goal was to use rock climbing to get back into shape. Eric was nice enough...except he almost backed into my car as Victoria were pulling out of the parking lot to go get lunch. This number worked out perfectly because this allowed Victoria and I to practice together while the trainer worked with Eric. Having a smaller class also allowed for a one-on-one lesson. I can't recall the teacher's name but he did a great job showing us around and teaching us the beginning techniques.

The lesson was straight forward. Once you understand the concept of how to belay for the person climbing the rest is mostly about having the strength to carry your body around from high heights and being able to finish the puzzle. Once you trust the equipment the height is less of a worry.

To help Victoria and I overcome our immediate fear if climbing he had us both go up a wall not paying attention to the colored tape that creates a path. The goal was to make it all the way to the top. We did it! After that our main obstacle was our strength.

Here is the link to where we went: http://sportclimbcs.com/index.html

We would take turns struggling to the top. As it turns out rock climbing is not only an amazing arm work out, but is also a puzzle. 'How am I going to choose the right hand and foot holds to get me to the top while staying within the correct trail I started with?' After an attempt at a hard trail Victoria and I would stand back after and discuss other options that would help us get further on our next attempt. This is mainly what we did with the bouldering paths.

There is one trail there, that was considered a 5.7 with orange tape marking which rocks we were allowed to use to get to the top; this trail challenged us due to fear when we first started then challenged us again at the end due to our tapped out arm strength.

By the end of the day my arms felt shaky like jello. What a perfect work out though! Rock climbing works on your core strength. Today my arms hurt badly. This pain is a good sort of pain. This pain was caused by me doing something good for my body.

To become a better runner I need to cross train to develop muscles that running doesn't reach.

We decided to split a 10 day pass giving us 5 trips each. Neither of us plan to come without the other so we decided this was the best deal to give us chances to go back without a restricting time frame. Since we have to drive 50 minutes up to the center we don't know how many times we will make it back in the next 3 months.

I am excited about this year. This will be an active year for me; a year to develop myself in many ways. What makes me happy? What do I want for my life? How can I be happy with anyone else if I am not happy by myself? I cannot allow myself to be defined by who I am with or the people around me, instead I need to find who I am and to develop that person as I discover her.

Joy comes from within not from anywhere else. If you put your possibility of joy in anyone else sadness will find you every time. The time is now. I don't have children and I don't have a husband. (I do have a life partner who is great). 2012 is the year I make things happen; to bring what I want for my life into view.

In addition to the list I started above other item that will sneak back into my life are going back to school. It is time to give a little of my time to working on my degree. I will be taking a math class and an English this term.

Here is the list:
1. A 5K Race
2. A 10K Race
3. Rock Climbing/strengthening my arms
4. College

I think this is a manageable list! 2012, Bring it on! :)

Now to go stretch out my arms! Ouch they sure do hurt!