Running with High Heels On

Ankle. You Bitch.

2011-09-06T13:13:00.003-04:00

Whats up with me? Man so much. I'm sorry for the lull, but when I get bad news, sometimes I just want to keep it to myself so I don't have to face the facts.
I'm injured. Yup, once again I have hurt myself. Am I a little frustrated? Uh, yeah. BIG time frustrated.
My right ankle had been bothering me off and on for a while. I didn't think TOO much about it because I've had ankle issues before. I went on an 8 miler two weekends ago and it went ok and I was happy that I was able to accomplish 8 miles. BUT that night I was in pain. I'm talking almost to tears pain. The next day wasn't any better. I had to face the fact that I was in fact injured and needed to see someone.
I made an appointment to see the Podiatrist that night. Bad news left an right. I found out that I have beginning stages of arthritis in my ankle and that if I keep running/walking the way that I am I will eventually be walking like a penguin. Oh what every girl dreams of hearing...
He recommended new running shoes and he gave me a steroid shot to help with the pain. The best news is he told me I could still run. Yeahhh!
The next day I went for a run in my new shoes. I decided that I would only do a mile at a slow pace. The good news is that the tendon that was hurting, didn't hurt. The bad news is that everything else did. My left ankle was bothering me and my shin splints are back. I was devastated.
That Thursday was better. I went for a 3 miler after taking 4 Advil and things seemed to be fine. This past weekend I went to go on a short run but my calves were so tight that I was unable to go farther than a mile before admitting defeat.
On top of all of this, I have really wanted to run a 1/2 marathon this fall. I was looking into the Cincinnati 1/2, Oct 22. But plans got changed and I will be out of town that weekend. Then I was looking a 1/2 Sept 24th. But then I found out that my boyfriends family will be in town that weekend. End of September was cutting is close anyways. THEN I found the Columbus 1/2 on Oct 15 and thought that could work, but the NEXT DAY we got a wedding invitation for my boyfriend friend that we have to go to.
Ok, Universe, YOU WIN! I won't run a 1/2 this fall. :(
UGH

Stress

2011-08-17T13:19:00.005-04:00

I've been a little stressed out lately. I figured out that I have to run. Its the only thing that will me sane!
This weekend I finally got out for a long run. 6 miles baby! It wasn't the prettiest run I've even been on, but I got it done and finished strong. My neighborhood is too hilly. Thats just a stone cold fact. If I wanted to run through mountains, I would go to Colorado. I barreled through the 'hood from hell and crossed over a Route 4 (i'm a bad ass like that) and ran through parking lots before heading back home.
My average time equaled out to be a 10 minute mile pace. I am actually really proud of that. My miles ranged from a 8:30 minute mile to an 11:00 minute mile. As soon as my computer starts working again I will be able to plug in my Garmin and see how I am doing.
Last night I did intervals.I guess I needed something hard and painful to do.
10 minute pace warm up, then 9 minute pace to a 7:30 minute pace intervals. PAIN PAIN PAIN. But felt soooo good afterwards. 8:25 average pace.
This weekend is my sisters bachelorette party in Chicago so I know I won't be able to run then. I am hoping to get a longish run tomorrow.

Gone

2011-07-30T18:41:00.001-04:00

I saw this commercial today and I just had to share it. :)
ENJOY

Feet

2011-07-28T13:04:00.004-04:00

Why do blister suck so much?
Actually, why do my feet suck so much? I feel like no matter what I do I get blisters. My feet or ankles always bother me and don't even get me started on my achillies tendon. My conclusion is that I need new feet. Do they do a full foot transplant? If so, sign me up.
My goal for Tuesday was to do a 4 mile run. I have been able to hold my own on 3 mile runs so I felt like it was time to push for one more line. Yeah, after about .25 miles I realized that it was going to be a battle to finish. My legs felt like lead or another heavy metal. On top of that, the balls of my feet were on fire. I felt like (1) a giant blister was about to form or (2) my feet were getting punched in the balls (haha get it!?). But that OBVIOUSLY wasn't enough to convince me to stop running. What about the fact that it was increasingly humid and that mosquitoes found me delicious? Nope that didn't stop this stubborn girl either.
I ran 3.4 miles at a 9:30 pace and I walked the other .6 miles intermittently. The balls of my feet are still hurting and I feel a bit discouraged. I was planning on running today but I think it would be wise to hold off a little longer...or until I get a foot transplant.

Its Getting Hot in Herre

2011-07-18T18:16:00.006-04:00

Nelly was right. It IS getting hot in herre. But that didn't stop me from running.
2.01 miles in 18:38 - 9:16 pace.
YEAHHH!
This was a big learning run for me. I feel like it actually changed the way I view myself as a running. This was my first official run with my garmin!! Its such a nice little tool, I can't believe it took so long for me to own one. I started my run at a comfortable pace and happened to glance down at my watch. 8:15 pace! HOLY MOLY! It completely surprised me that I was able to comfortably hold this pace.
Unfortunately, its hotter than Satan's bedroom outside today so naturally started run slower. The last .75 mile was at a 9:45 minute pace and it was all I could do to hold on.
I guess I should have forced myself to run slower in this heat OR taken my run indoors, but truthfully, I needed this run. Its been one of those days that you just have to get outside and run!
Kind of nice to have that feeling again :)

Our New Addition

2011-07-15T08:40:00.002-04:00

Meet our new girl, Ellie. She is a 2 year old Spaniel mix and we just adore her! Wednesday night we went to the Humane Society to look at the dogs they had. There are a bunch of restrictions on the type of dog we are allowed to get in our apartment complex. So instead of getting lost in pages and pages of cute furballs on Pet Finder, we opted to just go look.
But alas, we feel in love. She looked at us with those big puppy eyes and then walked right over and tried to cuddle with us. We were allowed to take her for a walk outside to get a feel for her. Chris and I knew right away that we had to apply to adopt her.
All the volunteers were thrilled that we wanted her. She had been there since March - always over looked. How could you over look this face!?So far she has been one easy going pup. We are so happy to call her ours.

Doppelganger

2011-07-13T09:53:00.006-04:00

I have a doppelganger!

It's actually kind of freaky. I have never met or seen someone who looks like me. I have never been compared to a celebrity or anyone in the lime-light. I guess all I needed to do was go to the gym.
Ever since I have joined the gym I have noticed a girl with long brown hair (like mine) which is placed in a simple ponytail (like mine). She runs on the treadmill for long periods at a time (like me) and she has the Flying Pig 1/2 marathon shirt (like me). She's thinner than me and most likely taller, but over over all, she looks like me. She gets on the treadmill shortly after I finish running on the treadmill myself. I feel like she is the faster, thinner, taller version of me who works out 30+ minutes after me. Always fun to see her.
Makes me wonder if she feels the same way towards me....

This weekend, I went for a run with my boyfriend. MAN was it hot. We waited a little too long to get out and run...but sleeping in was oh so nice! We took it easy and walked a lot since it was around 90°F and humid. He had a tough time with the heat (he's a northerner, through and through) but I felt pretty good (I'm a southerner, through and through). The whole point of the outside run was to play with my new Garmin. Unfortunately, when it was finding the satellite, it asked me if I was using it indoors and I pressed yes instead of no. I couldn't figure out how to change it to relocate the satellite so I could run with it outside...FAIL. I just used it as a stop watch. Pretty disappointing but it was probably for the best. Hopefully this weekend we can get out again and it will be cooler!

Dance, Dance

2011-07-08T07:43:00.002-04:00

Oh Zumba, you successfully made me feel like a complete idiot all while having fun and moving to upbeat songs. My gym started to offer Zumba classes, something I've been wanting to try for a while, so of course I joined the class Wednesday night. Unfortunately, I was the only one who showed up to Zumba it up. The instructor walked around the gym trying to get other females (all 5 of them) to join in the class. One middle age woman agreed to join in the fun.
Although I didn't feel like I had a hard workout, it was a nice pace change from the typical run/weightlifting that I do on a day to day basis.
My new shoes arrived!! They got here in literally 1 day. Last night I tried them out at the gym. I wanted to run outside but it was so freakin hot outside that I decided to stick to the gym. To mix up the mind numbing dreadmill I decided to do a tempo run.

1 mile - 9:31 pace
1 mile - 8:34 pace
1 mile - 8:34 pace
1 mile - 9:31 pace

5 minute cool down run/walk.

Overall, it went well, despite the couple times I had to stop do to shear boredom. I can't wait until this weekend when I can actually get outside to run. I'm getting tired of the everyday run in the gym.
Happy Friday!

Life's a Beach

2011-07-06T10:23:00.006-04:00

I spent last week at the Outer Banks in North Carolina. I did nothing but lay on the beach or by the pool all week....and it was everything I'd hoped it would be. I didn't realize how badly I needed a vacation until I was there. Sometimes its good to recharge. :)
My birthday was last week (June 29th) and guess what my parents got my for my birthday. Drum roll please.

A GARMIN!

I have been running for 2.5 years and I am just not jumping on the Garmin band wagon. Better late than never? I haven't tried it out yet but I have plans to run outside this weekend. I also bought new running shoes online last night; This was grossly over due. I bought new ones 2 months ago but they were horrible so I have been running with my really old ones. My feet are mad at my decision. Now I wait by the mail box for my new shoes to come in!
The day after we drove back from the OBX (12 hours never lasted so long), Chris comes in the kitchen with paint samples for the kitchen. We had been wanting to paint the kitchen for ever but just never have gotten around to it. It did surprise that he wanted to paint the day after we got back and not just relax, but who am I to argue? So here is our kitchen:

Before

During

After

So happy with the results!

I went to the gym yesterday and MAN did I feel like a lump of lard. It had been over a week since I worked out but it felt like it had been over a year. Still, I somehow made it 3.25 miles in 30 minutes plus a 6 minute cool down followed by weight lifting and core. I am 90% sure that there is a Zumba class tonight at my gym. If there is, I will be attending. If not, another run followed by leg work outs.
I really need to lay out a plan for my 1/2 in October. I just am torn about who's plan to follow or if I should just go with my own plan. Any suggestions?

Oh I Remeber This...

2011-06-22T13:05:00.006-04:00

Well, I suck. Blog? What blog?
I don't know why but I have been totally sucking ass with the whole posting thing. Maybe its the fact that my lapple (laptop/apple) as gone to crap and I don't like to sit at a desk, where my boyfriends computer is located - especially after a good sweat.
Updates on my life - I got a big girl job again! WOOT! I quit bartending and I joined a gym. I go straight after work and work out for a good hour - an hour and a half. Boo ya.
Next week I get to go on a week long vacation to the Outerbanks, NC. AKA motivation to hit the gym. I've been working on speed. I decided that I wanted a 9 minute mile to be my norm, not a 10 minute mile. So intervals and lots of running has been done on the dreadmill to get my body use to the pace. It hasn't killed me yet which tells me that maybe I haven't given myself credit. I just have always thought that I was a slow runner and that was that.
A guy in my department really has gotten into running. He ran the flying pig full this year as his first marathon. I was suppose to run the 1/2 but decided I wasn't in enough shape to do it. Plus, I really wasn't feelin it. Anyways, he likes to ask me a lot of advice and share training and running stories. Its kind of nice having someone to talk about things with.
On top of running I have been working on lifting weights and straightening my core (boring) and legs. I feel so much better now that I am back in the swing of working out. Truth be told, I really have missed it.

Future plans? I really want to run a 1/2 marathon in the fall. I'm thinking the Cincinnati 1/2 might be a good one. Super close, l0-key and flat. We will see.

Woo!

2011-01-07T18:32:00.004-05:00

Guess who got a job? This girl! Before you get too excited and start sending me flowers and balloons, let me tell you that this is NOT a graphic designer job...far...far from it. I will be a waitress at the local Ruby Tuesdays. I worked at Ruby Tuesday back during my Junior year of college.
The point is I will be able to make some money to pay off my bills and have a little spending cash. My boyfriend won't have to fully support me and make my car payments. Ahhh it will feel wonderful to be able to support myself again.
Thanks for all of your advice and comments on my last blog. I have missed you all too! xoxo

A New Year

2011-01-06T12:38:00.004-05:00

It's been, what 2 ish months since I've posted last. Sorry. You'd think that being unemployed and being home most days would leave me plenty of time to write and read blogs. I guess I just haven't been inspired to actually write anything about what I have been up to.
I hope you all had a splendid holiday season and that you all have found 2011 to be a great new start. 2010 was pretty fantastic to me so I can't wait to see what this new year will bring to the table.
I want to run the Flying Pig marathon/half marathon here in Cincinnati this year. I just can't decided if I want to do the full or 1/2. My delima is mostly due to the fact that I haven't found any great places to run. I've been running in my neighborhood but it is extremely hilly and my partially torn cadaver of an ACL isn't really appreciating the down hill runs. I live on the northern end of Cincinnati so if anyone knows of a good park please let me know.
My main goal for this year is to lose weight (I know I know, like every other American). But this is not my resolution, this is just a goal. My sister is getting married October 1st and I'd like to be a good 10 lbs lighter by June and then just maintain until the big day. I want to try to get my boyfriend back into running. He works 13-16 hour work days so its hard to find time to run. I doubt he would be willing to wake up at 4:30 to run when he doesn't get home until 8-9pm.
A lot of people I know got engaged this holiday season. If you also got engaged, CONGRATS :D

The Marine Corps Marathon

2010-11-04T09:58:00.002-04:00

Well, I did it! I finished the Marine Corps Marathon. Not only that, but I PRed by a good 20 minutes. Who would have thunk it?
I did everything you never want to do a couple days before a marathon. I walked. I walked a TON. I walked from Chinatown to the Mall to the Lincoln memorial. Then the next day I walked all around the Pentagon (Jenna, Alex and I got a private tour from my boyfriends brother in law), then all around the expo. And the Saturday before the marathon I went to the expo again with my dad and then walked around that area then walked back to the expo for a tweet up.
By Saturday night I was tired and dehydrated. My wonderful boyfriend had to work Saturday, but he still flew in that night so he could watch me run. Poor guy wasn't even in DC for 24 hours, but he still made the trip. My boyfriends parents were also there to support me and their son-in-law who was also running. So nice to have the extra support.

Whoever made it so cold and the walk to the start so far...sucks. The morning of I couldn't get warm and I was freeeeezing. Some nice woman gave me her throw away jacket. SO so sweet of her. This was my third marathon, but I have never run such a large marathon before. It was amazing. PLUS it was Halloween so there were a lot of fun costumes.
The best part of it was that my sister and my dad were there at the Start with me. My dad wasn't going to run because of his plantar fasciitis, but he decided to go ahead and give it a go.
My sister went ahead to start earlier. She was also injured but still going to try to give it her best go.

My dad and I started together which was an amazing experience. There were marines lined up and there was a canon to start us. About 20 minutes after the official start, we crossed the start line. After we started I felt my dad pulling away so I told him to have a great race and run the best one he could.

The first 8 miles were basically "rolling hills" which in my opinion should have been called
"rolling mountains." Some how I managed to basically run the first 10 miles straight. I only stopped once and a while to text my mom and boyfriend to let them know where I was (they were going to be waiting at mile 10 for me). Along the way I gave some marines and little kids high fives. PLUS someone gave me some gummy bears.

Mile 1: 11:45
Mile 2: 11:34
Mile 3: 11:41
Mile 4: 11:25
Mile 5: 12:04
Mile 6: 11:50
Mile 7: 12:18
Mile 8: 11:03
Mile 9: 11:22
Mile 10: 11:30
Mile 11: 14:34

I was worried about my slower than 10 minute mile pace, but it felt comfortable and I was feeling good. As you can see, Mile 11 was when I stopped to chat with my family. All I wanted was some food - I was starving even though I ate breakfast. I got a banana and was on my way.
Mile 12, 13, 14 SUCKED. We were out on a little island and there wasn't a lot of people. It seemed to be lasting forever.

Mile 12: 12:37
Mile 13: 12:54
Mile 14: 13:19
Mile 15: 13:35
Mile 16: 14:39

I saw my family again at mile 16 and stopped to say hello. My left knee was bothering me so I used some tiger balm to calm it. Things were going to get better...the mall was next!

Mile 17: 12:52
Mile 18: 13:06
Mile 19: 13:41

I went around the back of the Lincoln Memorial and I was smiling. I felt awesome. And people noticed the smile on my face and yelled things to me like "look at that smile!" "keep it up smiley." Sadly, this smile quickly faded when I got past the Washington monument and was literally ON the mall. The surface was pebbles and hurt my feet.
My mom texted me "We are just after mile 20, where are you?"
My reply, "Death Row."

Mile 20: 13:55
Mile 21: 13:56
Mile 22: 14:10

Look of death

I saw my family at mile 20 and my boyfriend jumped in to run with me. I thought it was going to be a mile or so but to my surprise he said he was going to run the rest of the way with me. I was running slow by now but he keep pushing me and told me to keep moving. The bridge suuucked. It was so long and it was never ending. But I am proud to say that I beat the bridge!

Mile 23: 13:45
Mile 24: 14:33
Mile 25: 14:39
Mile 26: 14:54

As we went into Crystal City's out and back I started to look for my dad because I knew he wasn't too far ahead of me. I saw him coming the other way and it gave me a boost. Next, they were handing out beer...oh you better believe I took it. TASTY. But I drank it a little too fast so my stomach was angry.

Mile .2: 3:09
Official Time: 5:40:55

After I past mile 26 they kicked my boyfriend off and I had to run up the steepest hill. That was just mean. But, knowing I could stop running soon helped me push up the hill.

I wanted to cry when I finished. I got a space blanket (FINALLY) and my medal from the marines. As I was walking my dad saw me and we got our picture taken together. I was so happy to find him! And even more happy he finished. I got a text from my sister and I knew she finished too - slower than she wanted, but damn it she was injured and still finished!

There was craziness afterward and the line for the metro was nuts. I had such a blast though and I am so proud of myself and my family. It was a hard run and I really wish I had trained more towards the end. It really makes me wonder what I would have done if I could have trained more and run more.
Thanks for all the love and support!

Pre MCM

2010-10-25T14:24:00.003-04:00

So, Marine Corps marathon is almost here. Holy crap. I leave Wednesday to fly out to DC and get ready to run this beast.
Have I run lately? Ummmm.....not really.
Farthest I've run? 16 miles back in early September.

SOOOOO am I feeling confident? No. Not a bit. I am scared and I am trying not to think about it. A lot of people tell me that I'll be fine and that its mental. But come on. I've run MAYBE a total of 10 miles since my car accident on Sept 13th. So, its not mental. Its physical. I don't feel like I have done crap to prepare and truthfully, I don't feel like I am even running a marathon. This was suppose to be my best marathon to date, but now I am feeling like a DNF might happen. Which I am going to be ok with. I am relying on a couple people to run a few legs with me and to cheer me on. This may be the hardest marathon I will ever do, yes harder than the 8 million degree run I did for the New Jersey Marathon.
I'll let you know how it goes, but don't expect much.

Goodbye NYC

2010-10-14T22:38:00.005-04:00

Took my roommates dog out for one last Jocelyn and Mochi walk.

Whats up. Long time no blog. Its been a crazy ride since I have made the decision to move. My last day of work was Friday and it was bitter sweet. Work through me a goodbye party after work. I woke up slightly hung over Saturday and since then I have been packing like a fool and sleeping like a bear in hibernation. The BIG day is this Saturday! SO soon! yikes.
I did manage to get in two short runs this week before having to pack up my running gear. sniff sniff. I feel so out of shape. What happened to the girl who ran 16 miles back in early September? She died I guess.
I still am planning on running Marine Corps Marathon in 16 days! How? Tons of Tylenol and Tiger Balm. My dad is currently nursing his heel injury so its unsure if he will get to run. My sister is nursing her injury but I am sure she will be able to run.
My boyfriend will also be coming out to watch along with my mom and his family! :D Should be a crazy, yet fun trip. I will be there starting Wednesday to visit some friends and enjoy DC - I love the city. If anyone is around during the day, let me know.
I apologize for the lack of blogging and for the lack of commenting. My runs seem so minor I just don't know what to write. Congrats to all you Chicago Marathoners. SO proud of you guys! Wish I could have been there to cheer you on!
I'll try to be better about blogging once I get settled in. Until then, Peace out NYC, hello Cincinnati.

Decisions Made

2010-09-24T12:40:00.004-04:00

In the fall...man this is tough...in the fall I'm going to take my talents to south Ohio and join my boyfriend in Cincinnati.

Yup, I'm moving to Cincinnati to be with my man. Since I can't afford car insurance and it would take 2 hours to get to work by public transportation, I decided to take this opportunity and move. I was planning on moving there next spring so I might as well do this now. As for what I am going to do? I'm not sure yet. I've been applying to jobs like crazy and am willing to waitress while doing freelance work. I feel like this is an opportunity to really find something new. I couldn't be more excited. Oh course I will be leaving my friends, but I hope to stay in touch and be able to visit. Cincinnati will be closer to my sister who lives in Chicago :)
In the last 2 weeks:
Got in a car accident
Quit my job
Decided to move to Cincinnati

Yeah, its been a wild ride!!

I Am Still Alive

2010-09-16T09:50:00.001-04:00

Hello! I have missed you and I love you xoxo
So much has happened in the last week and a 1/2 I don't even know where to begin. I will try to keep it short because each topic could be a stand alone blog entry and I don't want to bore you all with too much details (unless a lot of you ask me questions regarding certain topics in which I will post another blog).

Hold on to your britches kids, we are in for a ride.

Saturday, September 4th:
As planned, I went on a long run. I decided to go for time instead of distance to make sure I made it home in time to shower and get on my flight. My goal - 1.5 hours out and 1.5 hours back, 3 hours total. I woke up early to go for this long run. Something really nice about leaving the house before 9 to go for a run on a Saturday.
The run went fine except for the last few miles where I was just plan tired.
Total Miles - 16.31! Woot!

CRUISE
A. MAZ. ING.
This vacation could rank as the best vacation I have ever been on. I had SO much fun.
Each day was something new and exciting.

Sunday
We got on the ship, laid by the pool and relaxed until dinner. This trip was for 2 of my boyfriends friends who were getting married so there was about 30+ of us. It was my first time meeting everyone but right away I got along with them. It was a great group mixed of people in their 20s, 30s, 40s and 50s.

Monday (Labor Day) (Wedding day)

We got off the ship in Key West around 9:15 to walk over to the wedding site which was on the beach. They said their own vows which left nearly no dry eyes in the crowd. We then went onto a reception were I felt guilty for having a beer before 11:30. That guilt went away quickly :) We then went to a bar on Duval St before getting back on the boat.

Tuesday
Fun day at sea! :) AKA Swimming and laying by the pool. Lovely. Then we had a second wedding reception for the couple around 1pm, only to return to the pool afterwards.

Wednesday
Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands.
The boy and I got off the ship early to do Snuba, which is basically scuba diving except the taken is on a raft above the water and not on your back. It was soooooo much fun. We went over a ship wreck and a coral reef. Had a blast.

Thursday
Jamaica
I was up early for whatever reason so I went up to get breakfast about the time we were pulling into port in Jamaica. Um...yeah, it was love at first site. I have never been to Jamaica and I had no idea what the terrain was like. It was amazing.

The whole group was doing the on shore excursion -A beach party. As soon as we got to the beach I made the decision that this is where I want my honeymoon to be. I can't even being to describe it and pictures just cant do it justice. While on the beach, we got free drinks and food served to us. OMG their jerk chicken is AMAZING!!! The bus driver told the guys that if a girl calls you a jerk to say "thank you" because in Jamaica, jerk means hot and spicy :)
It rained in the afternoon but it didn't stop us from having fun. After we got back I want to get some touristy shopping done so we went which our drive to the shopping center. After I got my some T-Shirts and such the story made us leave through the jewelry shop. Oh those salesmen are good. They got my to try on all these right hand rings. There was one stone that caught my eye. My my boyfriend asked if I liked it I of course said yes. Next thing I know he's buying my this really amazing 4K Caribbean Topaz ring. I've never owned a rock this big! Such a nice surprise!
I guess he had wanted to buy my a nice piece of jewelry the whole time but I had kept blowing off jewelry stores because lord knows I can't afford it. My boyfriend is the best xoxo
That night we watch the Vikings/Saints game on the upper deck. I want to watch every NFL game like that!

Friday
Fun day at sea

This was kind of a detox day. My liver was angry at me drinking so much and my body was tired of being in the sun. I did drink another tropical drink though...I just had to!

Saturday
Up early to get off the ship then spent a good 7 hours in the airport before our flight. I was so bored. That airport isn't exactly Disney.
I landed safe in NYC, everything was great except the cold weather.

Monday
Drove into work on a rainy day. Someone cut me off so I moved over, lost control of my car and got hit the guard rail 3 times did a 360 and ended up in the right lane. Somehow I was fine, just shooken up. But yeah, not the way I would have liked to start the week coming back from a week long vacation. My car is totaled and since I was on my parents amazing work insurance as long as I had the same car, I have to now look for a new car and new insurance. Seeing as my driving record sucks and I live in NYC, I know insurance is going to be ridiculous and I may not be able to afford it. If I take mass transit to work it will be roughly 2 hours each way and about 300 a month. Not bad price, but thats 4 hours of my day that would be gone. I am not sure what I am going to do.
Needless to say I have been stressing and not been able to sleep.

So that's where I have been and this is why I haven't been reading or commenting on your blogs. I hope you are all doing well and have no injuries to report! Please forgive me as I remain out of the blogging seen for a little while longer.

If any of you know a billionaire that wants to give a bunch of money away, I am more than whiling to take their money off of their hands.

A Quickie

2010-09-03T12:40:00.003-04:00

After this weeks fail runappaloosa, I am slightly worried about running 15 miles tomororw. Everyday I woke up to run but my ankle still hurt/was stiff. Since I haven't seen much improvement, I have decided to attempt to run tomorrow just to see how it goes. Instead of going for distance I am going to go for time. I am hopeful that my ankle will be thrilled with my decision to run. Fingers crossed.
Tomorrow's Plan: Waking up early, getting the run over with, ice bath, mani/pedi, then hopping on a plan to Ft Lauderdale were I will spend the night before getting on the cruise ship Sunday!!!! YES! I am super excited. What am I not excited for? PACKING. I hate packing. Especially since I have no idea what we will be doing each day/night. I don't want to over pack, but I don't want under pack.
I will miss you all during this next week and I wish you all nothing but the best running experience! If you are racing, good luck!
See you next on the 12th :)

Worth the Pain

2010-08-30T09:45:00.007-04:00

I've been super MIA for the last week! But now I am back, for now at least.
My good friend Lydia came into town Tuesday and I hadn't seen her since we completed our first marathon back in May 2009. It was great to have her back on the east coast. She was one of 3 roommates I had senior year of college so we all got to have a fabulous reunion! Its amazing that even though we haven't all been together since last October we all could pick up where we left off like no time had passed. I love these girls and I know we will always be able to make each other laugh. It just would be nice if Lydia didn't live all the way on the west coast!
I ran a quick 1.7 miles Tuesday night since I failed to run in the AM. Dumb move on my part because I couldn't fall asleep afterward. I know I am "young" and should be able to go out every night and get up at the crack of dawn for work...but can't do it. Late nights and early morning wore me out. By the time Friday got here I was ready to go into a 10 hour nap. Still, I wouldn't have changed it for anything. Extra time with Lydia is always needed!!

Saturday I got up for my 10 miler and I felt great. I was pumped and ready to go. Of course as soon as I got outside I felt sleepy again and my legs didn't want to run. I pushed through anyways. I got to mile 1.5ish and I felt super nauseous. So much so I had to stop my watch and stop the run. I stood around wondering if puking was going to happen. About 10 minutes passed and I was feeling better so I continued.
A mile or so later a group...no no a PACK of bikers were riding towards me. Since they were taking up most of the path I decided to step off the path on a dirt path. Not 5 seconds later I stepped on something and ended up rolling my ankle. It was painful to say the least and I question whether or not to continue. But after a few minutes it was feeling alright so I ventured on. I was still moving slowly but by the time I got to mile 5 I was glad I didn't cut my run short.
I got to mile 7 and had a 911 bathroom emergency so I sprinted to the bathroom I knew was up ahead. I think my stomach just hated me on that run! I finished the run in a slow 1:56 but, whatever, I did it. It was my step back week anyways so going slow is acceptable.
I worried about my ankle so Saturday night I iced it some. Unfortunately, since Lydia was in town I continued to do a bunch of walking. Today, it is KILLING me. I'm icing it but it doesn't feel like it is helping at all. I am hoping it will be ok for tomorrows early morning run but I guess I have to play it by ear.
6 days until I am on a cruise!! :D

Weekend Workouts

2010-08-24T09:14:00.006-04:00

Great news! My home lapple is back in working order. All it needed was a new battery and a new charger and she is happy to work for me again! Success! :D
Saturday I went for a 13 mile run. The goal was to go slowly and not to break any records. I just wanted to finish under 3 hours. As I set out, things were going well and I actually felt pretty fantastic. Then my fuel belt broke just before mile 3. Annoying? Oh you better believe it. It didn't completely fall apart but there is an elastic band that goes around the water bottle to help secure it in place which broke, thus causing the rest of the material to start tearing away. What to do, what to do? I MacGyvered a solution that held for a few miles before I would have to re-MacGyver it again. Better than having to carry the damn thing the whole way.
I tried a new energy thing. Powerbar Gel. Gross. Don't ever try it. Run the other way. I took the first one just after mile 4 and I almost threw up. It was liquidy and almost tasted carbonated. I gave up drinking soda a little over 7 years ago so anything carbonated now makes me slightly nauseous.
After regretting not picking up GU, I continued along the West Side Greenway. Once I got to the turn around spot I chilled out before heading up north.
Overall, my run was awesome and I felt great to get another 13 miles in the books.
Mile 1 10:01 Average HR 170
Mile 2 11:08 Average HR 183
Mile 3 11:14 Average HR 173
Mile 4 10:51 Average HR 183
Mile 5 11:22 Average HR 177
Mile 6 11:25 Average HR 180
Mile 7 11:58 Average HR 176
Mile 8 11:21 Average HR 180
Mile 9 11:20 Average HR 178
Mile 10 11:07 Average HR 176
Mile 11 10:55 Average HR 175
Mile 12 11:25 Average HR 176
Mile 13 11:38 Average HR 175
Total: 2:25:52

Sunday, I dragged my ass to the gym to get some sort of work out in. I rode the stationary bike for about 10 minutes and then lifted for 50 minutes. I haven't worked out my arms in a while so it was good to mix up my workouts. I also did some core work as well. Gotta get ready for the Cruise (Less than 2 weeks!).

I would like to officially state that I really hate having a chest sometimes. It is near impossible to find a cheap sports bra that actually supports the girls. Why do I have to spend so much more money because I am not a size A or B?
And shopping for a bathing suit is the most frustrating thing. Its past bathing suit season so I have to search through the sales rack and I can find a bottom that fits perfect but the top barely covers me. Or the top fits perfect, and the only matching bottom is huge. Ugh, men have it so easy.

5 Things Friday

2010-08-20T09:00:00.005-04:00

A couple of photos from the 1/2 last Saturday. :)

1. So both my lapple and my desktop PC have decided to die a slow an painful death. What does this mean? I am sans computer except for at work. Annoying? Slightly. Needless to say I was unable to blog this week.

2. Tuesday I got up early and went for a nice slow recovery run. I aimed to stay in zone 2 which meant clocking 13 minute miles. Just what my body needed! It felt good to get out there again and just move.
2. My sister and her fiance were in town Tuesday and Wednesday. I have missed my sister so much and it was great to have her back...even if it was for only a couple days. Wednesday was her birthday so we throw her a little surprise party. It was a lot of fun and I am so glad I got to celebrate her birthday with her. :)

3. Because I was such a "partier" this week I didn't get a second run in yesterday, but I think that I am ok with that. Sleep was needed. Tomorrow I have a 13ish mile run to conquer which I am actually really looking forward to. I plan on taking in slow and juts trying to do it under 3 hours. No need to set another PR :)
4. One of my best friends/roommate from senior year of college is coming in next week from Oregon. She is the one who got me to run my first marathon. I actually haven't seen her since my first marathon in May 2009! I can't believe it has been that long! I can't wait to see her.

Bronx 1/2

2010-08-16T11:23:00.005-04:00

I had really no intention of racing the Bronx 1/2. I was going to use it as a training run, but I guess thats what I told myself to excuse a bad performance...

The night before I was excited. A new course and my 3rd 1/2 marathon! But that excitement was quickly faded when my alarm went off at 4:30am. I made it over to the Bronx via the buses (taking buses I have never taken before was an adventure). I got to the start around 5:50 and was able to pick up my bib and shirt with no issues. It wasn't until I was pinning on my bib that I realized I completely forgot my miniPod. Ugh! I have run long runs sans music but I had specifically charged my iPod the night before in preparation for this race. Fail fail fail. Now I really didn't want to "play" 1/2 marathon.
I got to meet a twitter friend Renee (@rshill37) before the race. She was a super sweet girl and we found out we both went to high school (in Wisconsin) about 10 minutes from each other. Crazy right? She was much faster than me so I left her at her speedy corral while I did the walk of shame to the very last corral. Livin it up with the slow folks.
There is something you should know. I did 2 things that you should never do in a race:
#1. First outside run with my new shoes. I wore them the day before on the treadmill but that doesn't really count.
#2. I decided to try out a hand held water bottle instead of my fuel belt. I have been wanting to try this for a while but since I barely ran this past week I decided to do it during the race. (ended up not liking it)
Yes I knew they were both mistakes but I did them anyways. After all, this was just a training run, right?
The first 3 miles I totally kicked ass. I was sub 10 minute miles on each and I only stopped during the water station. I felt light as a gazelle frolicking through the meadows on a cool summer morning.
Mile 1 9:53 Avg HR 169
Mile 2 9:53 Avg HR 177
Mile 3 9:49 Avg HR 180

Then mile 4 hit me. My toes started to hurt and I knew blisters were taking shape. I soon felt like a heavy bear needing to hibernate for the winter. So I walked a lot and tried to figure out how the next 10 miles were going to happen. This was a crazy course with lots of out and backs and loops so I was going back the same way I had been before. At least I knew where I was going??
Mile 4 11:01. Avg HR 179
Mile 5 10:36. Avg HR 181
Mile 6 11:09. Avg HR 177
Mile 7 10:56. Avg HR 181

Now started the long out and back down Grand Concourse. The worse part was seeing the marker for mile 11 as I was trekking for mile 7. There was a man that said "Next time you see me you will have less than 2 miles to go!" Sounded great but I knew I still had another 4 miles until I saw him again. You have NO idea how tempted I was to cheat. No one was paying attention. No one would know! Damn my honesty though. By now you should know that in this part of the race my toes felt numb, my blisters sucked ass and I was ready to chuck my hand held and this guy preaching about Jesus.
Mile 8 11:22. Avg HR 179
Mile 9 11:55. Avg HR 178
Mile 10 12:04. Avg HR 175
Mile 11 12:24. Avg HR 174

Yeah, I was almost done. But, again, it was still 2 miles to go. I was moving slow and as you can see I was hitting 12 minute miles. My goal was to try to pick up speed (I really just wanted to be done with this race). But that didn't happen. I saw the guy again and he remembered me "Hey remember what I told you before!? Less than 2 miles!" Yeah yeah yeah, but I don't want to run anymore. I don't want to play!

Mile 12 12:36. Avg HR 169
Mile 13 12:19. Avg HR 174
Last .1 1:02

I can say I left it all on the course because even seeing the finish line couldn't get me to run faster. My watch said 2:27:something and I was pumped! I knew I PRed. My officially time was 2:27:00 which means I actually PRed by 8 minutes and 16 seconds. :D

Quads of Steel

2010-08-11T08:49:00.003-04:00

Maybe steel is the wrong type of metal. Quads of lead. Heavy, slow moving lead. I know, lead doesn't move, but if it did, I would image it would be slow moving. Kind of like me this morning. This whole week I have been exhausted and its not from lack of sleep. I'm blaming this on mother natures monthly gift. ....Bitch.
I couldn't get out of bed yesterday. I was heavy and tired and felt horrible. So I skipped my 3 miler. Today I forced myself out of bed. It was hard! My eyes burned and my legs didn't want to move. I felt as though this would be one craptastic run. Even though my plan called for 5, I decided to follow my body's demands and only ran 3.
Not only did my quads not agree with my decision to run, but it was so humid this morning. I walked way more than I'd like to admit and I ran slower than I would have hoped for. So frustrating because I really wanted a nice easy run but I got stuck with the Run 'o Death instead. Here's hoping tomorrow is better.

Weekend Catch Up

2010-08-09T10:52:00.006-04:00

I've been bad about blogging, but in all fairness, I've been lazy :)
Recap of the weekend:
I didn't run Thursday morning because when I woke up there was a huge thunderstorm! Booo! I will run in rain. I will not run in lightning. What annoyed me about the whole thing is that when I left for work 2 hours later the sun was shinning and there wasn't a cloud in the sky. Seriously!? I was annoyed.

Friday night I went to the gym with my roommates and took it easy since I knew I had a long run to do Saturday. So I biked for 10 minutes and then did some core workouts for 35 minutes.

Saturday was the long run. I was back and forth on what I wanted to do: There and back, run to 14th Street and subway it back, 10 miles, 11 miles. Questions that I just didn't have the answers for. So, as I was getting ready to leave I decided that I would run for time, not distance and I would do a there and back (1 hour there, 1 hour back). I haven't had a long run on the Greenway in a long time, so I really enjoyed being on the path again. Saturday was a beautiful day so there were tons of people out and about. Great to see so many people taking advantage of such a great day.

10.67 miles
2 hours
11:15 pace
Average HR 178
Max HR 193
After the run I went down town to get some shopping done. A big shout out to Ann Taylor and her Loft for thinking I am two sizes smaller than I am! I fit into a size 6!! A SIZE 6!! I wear 10! I still fit perfectly into my other pants, so I am guessing that these pants at the Loft run big. Still a big ego boost! I ended up walking from 42nd and 5th ave over to Columbus Circle which was about 1.5 miles.

Sunday I went to the gym and got on the elliptical for 10 minutes then work on my arms for about 45 minutes. I was sore but it was good to get something done.

Overall I think it was a successful weekend. I am getting excited about the Bronx 1/2 next weekend but have to keep reminding myself that I am doing it as a training run, not actually racing it.

5 Miler

2010-08-04T10:38:00.000-04:00

Yesterday sucked. After my awesome 3 miler I was ready to conquer the day. Around noon a massive headache came to visit and did not leave me alone. What's worse is by the end of the day is was all I could do to not lay down under my desk and sleep until it was 6pm. I came home and watched E! and Daily 10 only to find my eyes getting heavier and heavier...ok me, you win. By 8pm I got into bed and curled up ready for sleep to take over. Sadly, sleep didn't come as quickly as I would have liked it to. My heart raced and I spent the first hour or so trying to relax. I finally dosed off.
5:15am came and I actually felt rested! YES! 5 miles were on the schedule and damn it, 5 miles were going to be run. I decided to run the NYC Greenway on the west side, which is not flat from Dykman Street to the George Washington Bridge. Actually, its mostly one giant hill.

Good morning George! :)

But I made it through my there and back and felt fantastic the whole time...until I got to mile 3.5 and realized I needed to go to the bathroom ASAP. But when you are on a path with nothing around you, there is a lack of restrooms. I will admit that the thought of just squatting (there is no trees or bushes) on the side of the path did cross my mind. I am such a lady. I didn't though! Don't you worry. And I did make it back to my apartment with no issues...of course then I didn't have to go to the bathroom anymore. I hate that!
But hey, 5 miles done for 7am? Check and check. Tomorrow will be an easy jog. I can't decided if I should do 3 or 4 miles. Decision decisions. Oh and I randomly decided to run the Bronx 1/2 marathon on the 15th (a week from Sunday). :)

Mile 1: 11:16 HR 171 (warm up)
Mile 2: 9:32 HR 184
Mile 3: 10:30 HR 170 (whoa hills)
Mile 4: 10:22 HR 177
Mile 5: 9:19 HR 175 (cool down?)

Total: 51:04 (10:12 pace)
Max HR 190
Average HR 174

We're Gonna Need a Bigger Boat

2010-08-03T07:35:00.005-04:00

Who is excited about Shark Week on the Discovery Channel? This girl.

I have a weird obsession with sharks. I want to swim with them...un-caged!

I find them fascinating and such cool creatures. I seem to always not know that it is shark week until after the fact...but I am all over Shark Week this year. I want one! Sharks just have always been my thing. I am not impressed by dolphins and whales scare the crap out of me. But I am not scared of sharks. Don't judge me.

Thursday I did 10 minutes on the bike - 3 miles and then 25 minutes of core work
Yesterday I did 10 minutes on the bike - 3 miles and 35 minutes of core work.
This morning I woke up early for my morning run date with Ms Nicole. Its so nice to have a virtual running buddy! I hope we actually get to to run together one day! Its amazing how quickly 5:30 gets here. I reset my alarm for 5:45 to give myself some time to just relax before getting out of bed.
It was lovely outside this morning: lower 70s and overcast. I took it easy and didn't push myself. I only stopped 4 times: once to wait for a green light, twice to get a drink from a water fountain and once just because I needed to catch my breath. Overall, I felt fantastic on this run! YEAHHH
Mile 1: 9:57 HR 170
Mile 2: 9:28 HR 181
Mile 3: 9:38 HR 187
HR Max: 198
HR Min: 112
HR Average: 179
Total: 3.03 miles 29:03 minutes (9:35 pace)

OMG 89 days until MCM!!!

Morning Runner

2010-07-28T09:16:00.000-04:00

I know, "morning runner" doesn't sound like me at all! But with all my struggles to get up early for a run over the past few years, I finally did it...twice!
Monday night I was texting my friend Nicole and we figured out that we both had to get in a 4 mile run the following day. We decided to wake up at 6 and get 'er done together. She lives in Michigan and I live in NYC so it would be a virtual run together! Yeah running buddy.
I woke up Tuesday with no desire to get out of bed since the night before I struggles to fall asleep. But I had motivation! I texted Nicole as I was getting dressed and headed out the door. This run was a struggle for me. My shins started to bother me after mile 2 and I started to dream of a shower. Several times I considered cutting my run short but somehow my body refused to go back to my apartment. RUNNING SUCCESS! :) Thanks Nicole for being an awesome running partner!!
Mile 1: 9:33 HR 163
Mile 2: 9:18 HR 174
Mile 3: 9:35 HR 166
Mile 4: 9:56 HR 174
Average HR 169 Max 185
Total: 38:22 (9:30 average)
This morning I decided that I would also be getting up early for a 3 miler. This time I had no one to hold me accountable. I was convinced that I would pass out right away last night since I was exhausted, but sadly I had much on my mind so I couldn't fall asleep.
When my alarm went off at 5:45, it took me a while to realize what it was. Then I couldn't believe that it was already 5:45! I silenced that thing so fast at reset it for 6:45. F this, I ain't running. But then I laid there for about 20 minutes weighing the options and decided that I might as well get up and run. I love you bed, but sometimes I really need to leave you earlier than normal. I talked to my sister last night as she asked if I was going to run in zone 2. I have been having so much trouble running in zone 2!! The idea of running 13-14 minute miles made me dread the idea of running but I decided that I spent the last to day running hard and I needed to reward my body with an easy run. Much to my delight, zone 2 was so much easier to do in the AM as compared to the heat of the afternoon! Success yet again!!
Mile 1: 12:51 HR 148
Mile 2: 12:52 HR 153
Mile 3: 12:58 HR 155
Average HR 152 Max 166
Total 38:43 (12:54 pace)
WOO less than a 13 minute mile pace!!! I hate jogging so slowly that I feel like I am walking, but if thats what I have to do to stay in zone 2 (hey that rhymes) then I will.
2 days waking up early to run!? I am impressed with myself! This weekend I have an 8 miler to do. My boyfriend agreed to join me. I can't wait to run with him.

Cankles

2010-07-26T21:07:00.001-04:00

After a long hiatus (3 days) from running I decided to not run 9 miles this weekend and to only run 2 short easy ones, to test out how my ankles felt. Its been so odd not running that when I actually did put my shoes on I felt like my body was protesting. I guess I had gotten use to taking it easy.
My ankles are still swollen but not really hurting so I ran the 2 miles @ a 9:50 pace. I stopped in between mile 1 and 2 to stretch and walk a little before running the last mile. The good news is that I wasn't really in pain during or post run. The bad news is that my ankles will still bother be from time to time and they still are cankles.

Tonight was just lovely out. It seemed as though the humidity had peaced out so of course I had to take advantage and run. I planned a 3 mile loop that had very little hills to create minimum wear and tear on my ankles.
Mile 1: 8:48 HR 166
Mile 2: 9:02 HR 181
Mile 3: 8:38 HR 185
Total: 26:29 HR average 177, max 197
Overall, it went well. I took breaks in between each mile to stretch and walk some. My ankles are still cankles and I have to wonder if that is a sexy look. My personal opinion is no.
I wonder if I can use them to seduce my boyfriend...
"Hey baby, come here and look and my big...beautiful...cankles."

Revenge

2010-07-23T10:50:00.006-04:00

I know you all have been waiting on the edge of your seats wondering how my revenge run went. Well, I have to say I am happy to inform you all that I was able to prove to myself that I am still able to run sub 9 miles.
Mile 1 8:34 HR 166
Mile 2 8:44 HR 181
Mile 3 9:03 HR 179
Total: 26:22 (08:47 pace)
Max HR 195
Average HR 176
Woot.
However, with the good there still come the bad. When I stopped running my ankles and shins were killing me. I was in near tears. I couldn't tell you if I was in tears because it was that painful or from the pure frustration or fear that I was really hurt and would not be able to run for a while. I LOVE running! I don't want to not run. I've had shin splints forever but I don't remember them being this bad since I played soccer in high school.
I bit the bullet and took yesterday off from running and any form of a workout. I just needed to rest and relax (according to my body). I may or may not take today off too, we shall see how the day progresses.
I have a 9 miler planned for this weekend but I may not run the whole thing. I really have to listen to what my body wants and need because it is far to early in my training to be injured.
Thank you all for your advice and kind words from my last blog. Fingers crossed that I will be back to kicking running butt soon! :)

Good luck to all you Queens 1/2 Marathoners this weekend! Its going to be a hot one!
Good luck to all you SF Marathoners as well!! Kick some bootay!

Defeated

2010-07-21T09:54:00.002-04:00

I am feeling a little defeated. I think I may be pushing myself a little too hard or maybe I just have been making bad decisions. I have had 2 meh runs in the past 2 days and I long to have that "I freakin ROCK" feeling once again.
Monday was a gym day because it looked like a horrible thunderstorm (that didn't come until much later) was going to strike at any moment. I was going to take it easy but as soon as I realized how boring the treadmill was to me (I must have ADD on the 'mill) I decided to go ahead and do hills.
2 minutes @ 0.0 incline
2 minutes @ 1.0 incline
2 minutes @ 2.0 incline
2 minutes @ 3.0 incline
2 minutes @ 4.0 incline
2 minutes @ 5.0 incline
3 minutes @ 6.0 incline
2 minutes @ 5.0 incline
2 minutes @ 4.0 incline
2 minutes @ 3.0 incline
2 minutes @ 2.0 incline
3 minutes @ 1.0 incline
2 minutes @ 0.5 incline
2 minutes @ 0.0 incline
I had eaten an apple about 2 hours prior and I swear I could feel the remains of it jiggling around in my tummy. Thoughts of puking crossed my mind.
Yesterday I went out for a 4 mile run and I decided that I will try to run in zone 2. I had a new zone 2 after I figured out my max HR was higher. But of course, being the genius I am, I ran the most hilly route possible and it was humid and hot which made zone 2 near impossible to maintain. As I was whipping out 13 and 14 minute miles (blazing speeds I know), I decided to forget zone two and just run the last mile and a slow and comfortable pace. 53 minutes later, I had completed yet another slow as hell 4 miler. I should probably be smarted about when and where I run my zone 2 runs, eh?
Sadly, my ankles started to really bother me towards the end of the run. Yes I am talking about the same two ankles that were part of the nation wide "ANKLE WATCH 2010" that sidelined me for about 2 months. After I took a cold shower I got into bed and just felt defeated. Probably the last thing I would want to feel after completing a hard work out.
Tonight I have a 3 miler planned and I am going to ignore my time and my HR and just have a revenge run. I hope that this will prove to me that I still can run and a decent pace and that my ankles are fine. Please note that if they are not I will be smart about it (I promise!).

I Deem This Weekend a Success!

2010-07-18T16:51:00.000-04:00

I decided to take Friday off from working out. I was pretty exhausted and I think I just needed to relax and pass out early. I got up Saturday ready to conquer the 4m race in Central Park. One thing I love about racing in NYC is that you see all the runners who are also running the race when you get into the subway. As I road down more and more runners got on the train, and then all of us got off at 72nd. Got to love it. In Central Park, they had the finish line to the NYC tri which was held today (Congrats to all who participated!).
Even though it was a hot one I decided to try to push myself. First two mile rocked! I was running sub 10 minute miles. But then mile 3 happened and the hill o' death came and totally shot my pace. I still finished strong and am still happy with my performance.
Mile 1: 9:36 avg HR: 183
Mile 2: 9:39 avg HR: 194
Mile 3: 11:33 avg HR: 191 (death)
Mile 4: 10:48 avg HR: 190
Total 41:37 10:28 pace
HR avg: 189 max HR: 201
Afterward, Kristin and I ran 2 miles and a slow pace to make my 6 mile goal for the day. Success.
Today I went to the gym for some cross training. I road the stationary bike (snore) for 40 minutes, 10.45 miles.
HR average: 141
Next walked on the treadmill at an incline of 3 to loosen up my legs. I followed all of this up with some weight training. I focused on my arms and then I moved to my core, followed my a long and slow stretching session. I was in the gym almost 2 hours and truthfully I could have stayed even longer. Is it weird that I was having fun? I predict that I probably won't be able to left my arms tomorrow but I think it was worth it.

Hamster Wheel

2010-07-16T09:15:00.006-04:00

Yesterday I had plans to go for a run outside, but when I got a text from my roommate asking me to go to the gym, I just couldn't refuse. Hamster wheel is it!
As boring as the treadmill is, I had read something in Niki's blog yesterday that I wanted to try. It was essentially this: Run 5 minutes hard, run 2 minutes easy, run 4 minutes hard, run 2 minutes easy, run 3 minutes hard, etc etc.
I started with a 2 minute easy warm up and then was off. My hard run pace was a 9 minute mile and my easy was a 10 minute mile. Somehow, after about 5 minutes I managed to press the "STOP" button on the treadmill. This is the 3rd or 4th time I've done this (2nd in the past 2 weeks) so I can only assume it is my body rebelling on me.
I finished in just under 30 minutes and then took a nice 3 minute cool down with a walk. This run was without HR training but I did wear my monitor. My max was 187! Normally it's in the 190s so this excites me and gives me hope to thinking my HR training is starting to pay off. My dad is the one who inspired me to start using a heart rate monitor and his heart rate doesn't get nearly as high as it use to when he runs. There's hope for me after all!
Completing this workout means I have made it one full week of working out! Pretty awesome for me. I have lost weight and toned up and I am already starting to feel like a lean mean running machine. I am back and forth on whether I will workout tonight. I am pretty exhausted and I have a 4 mile race tomorrow (plus a 2 mile run afterward with Kristin). Its suppose to be in the mid to upper 90s today and tomorrow...ew. I can only hope that it is cooler in the morning. I have big plans to do laundry tonight so if I do anything I will be doing core work while I wait for my clothes to be washed.

Run Run Run

2010-07-15T08:48:00.007-04:00

This is just like what I look like, except I wear a shirt and I am female and I run on roads not trails.
I have been a busy running fool the past two days. Tuesday, I wasn't going to go for a run but then I had a bit of guilt come over me so I laced up and headed out the door. I decided to try to keep my heart rate between zones 1 & 2. I called this run "The Run that Wasn't". I spent most of the time walking since my heart rate refused to stay below 145. I finished 2.85 miles in 43 minutes, which is like a 15 minute pace. Yeah, basically walking.
Max HR - 161
Average HR - 137

Yesterday I trekked out for a 4 mile run. To make up for Tuesdays "The Run that Wasn't" I decided to not have a target HR but to just try to run as much of it as I could at a comfortable speed. Since the course I ran is full of hills, I had to really push myself not to walk as much as I wanted to. Towards the very end of the run I decided to test my max heart rate and I sprinted up a hill. Something very weird happens when you start to reach your max; All at once I could feel the blood in my limbs rush towards my heart and I got dizzy. I decided not to keep pushing until the point of collapse (not a big fan of that). My HR got all the way up to 202, so I am guessing my max is either 205 or 210. I had previously thought that my max was 200. This may be why I found it so difficult to say in zones 1 & 2 on Tuesdays run. I must recalculate my zones!
Max HR - 202
Average HR - 187

In other news, my boyfriend got a huge (and well deserved) promotion! I am so happy for him! The next few week will be chaotic for him but I know he will rock at his new job. :) Congrats babe!

Incline

2010-07-13T09:30:00.005-04:00

My favorite comment from my last blog:
"morning workouts noooooooo don't do it!" - Maureen from Mo Sho Runs.
Good point Maureen...I took your advice and flicked off waking up early yesterday and today. I was trying to figure out why I was so tired and it hit me - I'm about to start my period (sorry boys). No wonder I have been feeling more tired than usual.
Yesterday, my car got a flat tire and to make a long story short, I had to get two new back tires. This was something I didn't plan for so it made me stressed out. Shortly after finding this out, one of my roommates texted me "Want to go to the gym?" Um Yes please! I HAD to get a run in to make myself feel better. Something. Anything!
I didn't have a ton of time after work because I was meeting my friend Kristin at a bar to watch the Home Run Derby. So I went to gym with a goal in mind: Incline workout! Plus, if I will look like Jillian Michaels, why wouldn't I do an incline workout??
It went something like this:
2 minutes @ 0 incline
2 minutes @ 1 incline
2 minutes @ 3 incline
1 minute @ 4 incline
1 minute @ 5 incline
2 minutes @ 6 incline (holy crap)
1 minute @ 5 incline
1 minute @ 4 incline
2 minutes @ 3 incline
Cool down on 0 incline.

It was a tough go but a great way for me to challenge myself and really get a good sweat on quickly. My max HR got up to 197 and my average HR was 176.
I may or may not run tonight. I am thinking that my body might need a break so I don't hurt myself.

X-Training Sunday

2010-07-11T22:43:00.000-04:00

If you haven't noticed, I am slowly turning into a workout junkie. Or at least trying to. I guess since my sister is now in Chi-town and my boy was camping this weekend it left me feeling a little lonely. So what does once do when she is slightly lonely? She works out! My feet are kind of hurting from my 6 miler yesterday so I knew I should not go for a run. Instead I went to the gym for some cross training.
I decided to do the stationary bike while I read this months Runners World. I did the bike for 40 minutes - 10.15 miles - on a random setting. Biking in places maybe the one thing that is worse than running in place. Thank goodness I had a magazine or I wouldn't have lasted that long. Getting off the bike is fine, walking is a little awkward and walking down stair is near impossible after a 40 minute bike tour. I felt like something was seriously wrong with my as I went down two flights to the weight room. I probably looked like an idiot; thankfully Sunday is a slow day!
I did some core work (see I am still keeping up with it...kind of) for about 20 minutes. I really hope I feel something tomorrow. Lately, when I work out my stomach and midsection I feel nothing which is all fine and dandy but it makes me feel like I didn't work as hard as I could have. I like to know I gave it my all. Maybe I am asking too much?
Tomorrow is suppose to be a rest day but I think I am going to go out for a short 2 mile run. Nothing crazy just once around my park in the morning...I know I know, my history of actually waking up early to run is not that good, but hey, at least I am thinking about it!

Gotta Have Heart

2010-07-10T20:25:00.003-04:00

Today I used my heart rate monitor for the first time as it should be used, to monitor my heart. Haha, ok no seriously, I used the heart rate monitor to keep my heart rate under 180. Don't freak, my max is like over 200 and it was super gross outside; Humidity say whaaaaaat. I set the watch so it would beep at me as soon as my heart went above the allowed rate. Man that happened quickly.
I spent the entire run running and walking then running then walking etc etc. It was the slowest 6 miles I have ever run. 1:22:46. Thats almost a 14 minute mile pace. But it was nice to concentrate on heart rate instead of time; it actually made the running go my easier. I forgot my miniPod but I didn't even realize I forgot it until mile 5, and the funny thing is that I didn't even miss it!
The break down:
Mile 1: 14.40 HR: 175
Mile 2: 12:40 HR: 176
Mile 3: 13.14 HR: 175
Mile 4: 14:48 HR: 176
Mile 5: 13:03 HR: 177
Mile 6: 14:19 HR: 178

Average heart rate - 175
Max heart rate- 189

Running Helped

2010-07-09T22:55:00.005-04:00

My sister has officially left for Chicago :( It didn't truly hit me until I was driving home from work. I didn't want to believe she was leaving so I told myself she wasn't, but I got a text from her saying she landed. I started to cry I was so depressed. Jenna and I are super close and we got even closer the last few years we both lived in NYC. I really have no idea what I am going to do with out her here. Love you sister!!
I had planned to go to the gym tonight with my roommates but now all I wanted to do was sit in my room alone and watch a sad movie and mop. I knew that running would help but I also knew that going would not be an easy task for me to do. Once I came home one of my roommates immediately asked if I was still going to the gym. Dang it. I sucked it up and got dress. Besides, I would regret not going.

Thank you to all of you who gave me suggestions on my hamstring. I feel pretty confident I pulled it. I continue to ice it and hope that it heals quickly...at least it didn't bother me while running.

I wanted to push myself today on the treadmill so I started with a 9 minute mile. Once I got to 2 miles I bumped it to 8:30 minute mile and then a minute last mile I bumped it to an 8 minute mile. My plan was to go 4 minutes or 1/2 a mile at this pace. Somehow my hand slipped and ended up knocking off the emergency stop magnet that immediately stops the treadmill. UGH. I was in the ZONE!!! I swear my body was just telling me to stop the best way it knew how - arm spasms! I had to restart every which in turn made the last .78 miles so hard to finish. My focus was shifted and my body was mad that I kept going.
After finished the 3 miles I did some core and stretched. I am glad I went. It helped lift my spirits - for the time being - and keeps me feeling good about my body. The boy and I will be going on a cruise in September for his best friends wedding so I am using that as a second motivation. Train for the MCM, stay in shape, and tone up/lose weight for the cruise :D

Surrendering to the Treadmill

2010-07-07T21:59:00.000-04:00

I'm sure you are all tired of reading about the heat wave all of us north easterners are having to deal with right now. Yes, it is ridiculous and just plan gross. I didn't run this weekend because 98˚ sounds good only if its a 90s boy band. 104˚ and 102˚ never, ever sounds good. Yuke yuke yuke.
I had been avoiding running on the treadmill becuase back in February I injured my ankles while on the treadmill and was out for almost 2 months. Ever since then I have been scared sh*tless. But I am in week 3 of training and these miles aren't going to run themselves...
I walked down to the gym, got on the treadmill, tried to figure out my heart rate monitor and then pressed start. As soon as I started to run "ow." My right hamstring has a sharp pain. Sharp. :( WTF! Oh jocelyn was mad!! I decided to be dumb and go ahead and finish the run. 3 miles later I stretched some and came home. Its still hurting...sigh. I am going to be SO annoyed if I am hurt. I mean come on, week 3? Give me a break. The thing that annoys me most is that I have no idea how I could have hurt my leg. :(

Oh Pain

2010-07-02T10:10:00.004-04:00

Why do I do these things to myself? I am in pain today. So sore. You may ask, "Why are you so gosh darn sore, Jocelyn?" Because I decided that doing speed works was a great idea yesterday.
I went for another lunch time run but decided to not just go out and run 3 miles but to put my body to the test at a soccer field next to my work.
My speed work consisted of running, sprinting, jogging, walking, frolicking, crawling, whining and dying up and down the field. I started with a nice job the length of the field two times. Then I started into the sprints with a jog to recover. I would either to do the length of the field or 1/2 of the field. I mixed it up and tried to continue to push myself (to tears). I managed to squeeze out 25 minutes (including a warm up and cool down) before surrendering to the fact that I am still not in the best of shape.
I stretched and then went back to work. This morning I am feeling it though. My hamstrings and tight, my ankles hate life, my quads are complaining and my back hurts. But as much as I am sore right now, I am happy that I was able to do something different like this, it broke up the regular training. :D Oh AND I remembered a change of underwear. It was a great day all the way around!

18 More Weeks

2010-06-30T17:09:00.006-04:00

Zomg 18 more weeks until MCM! Crap on toast! Yesterday was my 25th birthday and I had big plans to wake up early and run with my sister (whos staying with me for 3 weeks) for a birthday run! Sadly, when our alarms went off we looked at each other and decided that a better present would be sleeping. We both had a HORRIBLE nights of sleep so I know we were exhausted. After a fabulous day of work (yes that was sarcastic) I met up with a bunch of friends to eat Mexican food and have margaritas (and a tequila shot complements of the restaurant)! It was delightful.
My boyfriend got me a new camera to replace the one I lost! How amazing is he! I was not expecting anything like that. Yeahhh I will be back to taking pictures!
Thank you to all of you who wished me a happy birthday and those of you where spent it with me. I definitely felt the love!
Today I went for a run during lunch time. I knew I couldn't run tonight and waking up early after drinking was just a joke so I wanted to try and get a nice 3 miler in at lunch. There is nothing I love more than walking outside to feel that the humidity had left and the temperature had dropped. It was like a delayed birthday present! I managed to squeeze out 3.2 miles at a 9:10 (ish) pace. I guess tequila makes me run faster? HIGH FIVE! Sadly when packing everything I failed to pack a change of underwear. Ew. I guess tequila makes me forget things. So I had to go ahead and go commando in jeans. Needless to say I feel rather dirty. Note to self: Bringing 3 pairs of sock does not make up for the lack of underwear.
One of my birthday present from my dad was a heart rate monitor. I wanted to use it today but I didn't have time to read all the instructions or figure it out so I will wait. Its a Timex Ironman Road Trainer. It looks so nice, I am gitty! I can't wait to play with my new toy.

Speaking on Ironman, I would like to give a HUGE shout out to Ron from Punk Rock Tri Guy / Punk Rock Racin g who just completed his very first Ironman! Boston AND an Ironman in one year? So very impressive and amazing!! We are all so proud of you!!

Guess Who's Back, Back Again

2010-06-24T10:02:00.000-04:00

The past few days have been a little crazy. I went to WI for my boyfriends sister's wedding. It was a lot of fun but kind of hectic. Somewhere during the trip I managed to lose my camera hence why I will not be showing any pictures from said wedding besides the one I stole off of facebook.

View of the lake I ran around

I still managed to get a good 28 minute run in the morning of the wedding and then hit up the pool for a couple "laps." Then I danced the night away at the reception (cross training). Unfortunately, I got sick Sunday and still have the remains of a cough/sore throat, thus limiting me from working out.
Tuesday was my official marathon training start date. Did I run Tuesday? No. But I will use the rain and my sickness as my excuse. Yesterday I finally got my act together and went out for a run in the 90 degree weather at night. I went down to the NYC greenway on the Hudson. I forgot how uphill that run is! By the time I got to the 1 mile mark/turn around I thought my thighs were going to start crying. Oh yeah, before I went on this run I did some core work which included squats (oops!). Running back wasn't any better. It was still hot and my thighs were still not happy about the downhills and the final up hill. I completed the 2 miles in a little less that 20 minutes. Nice and slow :)
I really hate to admit to this but I think its time I should seriously consider running in the wee hours of the morning. I am not sure how I will make it through these months of training if I don't do something. I have also considered moving my runs to the treadmill in my gym, but that is where I got hurt last time and I am scared. My sister brought up a good point that I could have gotten hurt anywhere. I know I will have to get over my superstition about the hamster wheel eventually.

Its Starts...

2010-06-17T08:50:00.001-04:00

So I realized something this morning: Marine Corps Marathon training starts next week! OMG, NEXT WEEK!!!??? When did that happen because I didn't see it coming! Its always been looming in the back of my mind. Don't get me wrong, I am beyond excited to run the MCM with my sister AND father, but with my last two marathon trainings have ended up coming to a big holt due to injury; I won't deny that I am terrified. I don't think there is anything I can do to guarantee I won't get hurt expect pray to the Gods of Marathon Training that things will go smoothly and I will make great strides (ha ha get it? strides?) as the weeks pass.

I plan to start off slowly. I am taking Hal Higdon's novices marathon training plan and modifying it slightly to ensure I don't over do it. Its an 18 week plan, but I will be repeating the first week and not following it strictly. I have been running between 1-2 miles and the first week calls for 3 days of 3 miles. So I don't want to jump into the mix too fast.
Of course I will listen to my body and respect my legs. If they need a rest, I will rest. If they need to only run X distance instead of what the plan calls, I will listen. I have been looking forward to running the MCM since when I first heard about it back when I was training for my first marathon. I don't want it to me a struggle; I want to enjoy it. Hopefully I won't remain nervous for very long and will just enjoy the ride to the finish!

I was able to do 25 minutes of core work last night between laundry runs (and while watching E! News). Since I have to go to a laundry mat, I consider lugging my clothes to and from the mat part of an upper body work out. Add 4 flights of stairs each time and you have a total body workout for the day!

Work it Out

2010-06-16T09:27:00.009-04:00

Well, mark this in your calendar folks, I have actually done core work more than once in a single month! After last weeks workout I was sore. I mean damn. So I laid off doing anything with my abs and tried to stick with my booty and my upper legs/hips. Monday night I wanted to go for a run but it was raining and I just didn't feel like battling the down pour. So I decided that round 2 of core work would commence.

To make the time go by faster I decided I would work out while watching E! News; Its just the kind of mindless entertainment to keep my mind off the fact that I hate working on my core. Plus, sometimes they give you info on how certain celebs get in shape.

Mondays celebrity body: Bradly Cooper from A-Team. Specifically, his abs. So, even though I had already held the plank, I was inspired to revisit this position. Thanks E! After 30 minutes of none stop workouts I was sweating. Thumbs up!
Yesterday, I planned on running but I developed a horrible sinus headache. I mean, it was bad. Not one to let my allergies to win, I decided I would work on my booty, upper legs and hips. After a few minutes of watching E! News, they conveniently started to talk about how to get a nice butt like JLo or Kim Kardashian - how nice of them! Not that I necessarily strive to have the same things as celebrities, but it at least gives me new ideas for work out routines :)

After 10 minutes of working out, I noticed my headache was not as bad so I strapped on my tennis shoes and headed out for an easy 10 minute run. Well, when I say easy, I mean I pushed myself. My upper legs were so sore from the workouts I had been doing but I ignored their whining and pushed myself to run for 10 minutes straight. I went a total of 1.17 miles which equaled out to an 8:32 pace. High five! Its not always easy for me to hit that speed and I can't go very long, but training for Marine Core should start at the end of this month so for now I am trying to still have fun with my speed :)

My sisters Engagement party was a huge success! We had a lot of fun and we had a good crowd! Thanks to everyone who could make it.

15 Minutes of Fame

2010-06-12T10:56:00.002-04:00

This week was a little crazy. I seemed to be busy busy busy. Work was nuts with the Stanley Cup coming to a close. I had to be into work 3 hours early which throw off everything. I think I am still exhausted. So when I got home yesterday my body had no desire to go back outside and go for a run. Totally understandable if you ask me.
After playing a tug a war with myself, I decided that I would really beat myself up about it if I didn't make the effort to go outside. After all, the thought of a run had been exciting me all day. So I suited up and headed up.
My game plan was to go for 15 minutes. But goodness it was hard. I wondered why but then in dawn on my that I am still sore from my ab workout on Tuesday and the leg work out I did Thursday. Thanks for all your comments on that. I'm glad I am not completely alone with hating doing core workouts. And to clarify - I am not trying to get a six pack or anything, I just want to strengthen my core which I know will assist in running.
New game plan - 11 minutes. Once I got to the 9 minute mark I said, screw it, lets just go for 14 minutes. Looking back I wonder what made me do 14 minutes. Seems kind of random. But I was in the mist of running and obviously I don't always think logical when I run. I finally hit the 14 minute mark and becuase I was already feeling pretty decent I decided to go ahead and go back to the originally plan and go for 15 minutes.
I am glad that I was able to hit my original goal of 15 minutes! I came home and mapped it out and bam! 1.75 miles which equals an 8:34 min/mile pace! YEAH! It was so nice yesterday that I thoroughly enjoyed every second of the run. No humidity. 70˚F. Just delightful.

Tonight I am throwing my sister and her fiance an engagement party. I am so excited. :D

ABnormal

2010-06-09T11:05:00.002-04:00

The one thing I absolutely hate working out is my core. I hate doing it. I hate crunches. I hate the plank. I hate everything. I try to get creative and try to inspire myself to want to work out my stomach, but it just never happens. On the rare occasion that I do work out my core, I only do it for one work out session and then I don't care to do it more. I guess its no wonder why I feel like my stomach/midsection is my less flattering part on my body. Does anyone else feel the same frustration with core exercises? Can't I just wish for a smaller stomach?
I bring this up because last night I spend about 25-30 minutes targeting my midsection. I planned to run but thanks to the cold air vent that randomly got turn on at work right over my desk, I arrived home with a horrible headache. No run, but I did feel like I had to do something. I went crazy and worked on my core. Calm down, this doesn't necessary mean I will be continuing on this unknown path to Ab-landia, but I am blogging about it to try to force myself to. I did a wide range of things in order to not more myself with one or two different exercises.

Crunches - I did 20 3x
Stiff leg pull-over crunch - I did 20 3x

Front Plank - Held for 30 seconds 2x
Side Plank - Held for 30 seconds each side
Bicycles - Did 50
Side Bends with Weight - 25 on each size 2x

So there you have it. Day one of my attempt to be good about working out my core. I can't see this lasting very long...

Speedy McSpeederson

2010-06-06T22:45:00.002-04:00

Yeah that is just gross right??? But it was ok, it was humid as hell. I went out for a nice jog around my park to just run. I made up my route as I went - depending on how I felt. I would stop every now and again to catch my breath. Total 1.94 miles in 17 minutes. 8:40 pace. SWEET! I stop and stop my watch because I really wanted more of a feel for what my pace actually is. No garmin so I'd never know if I always include my walks. Today I was warned by fellow tweeters that it was hot outside. Greeeeaaat. I really needed to get a run in so I decided to suit up and go out for 10 minutes and however far I got that was it. I didn't want to hurt myself or die of heat stroke. I stepped outside and was slapped. Damn weather. Luckily, when I turned the corner there was a breeze. I headed out and decided I would run all 10 minutes without stopping. Tougher than it sounds because it felt so hot outside, but I actually was feeling really really good so I just went with it. The last 30 seconds were up a hill which was so hard to make it up with out walking. I hit the 10 minute mark and walked back home.
I plotted everything out and I went 1.16ish miles. Allow me to do that math for you. That's a 8:39 pace. That's the farthest I have gone at a sub 9 minute mile pace. WOW. Just wow. I am so proud of myself! I am starting to wonder where all my speed has come from...I think its the heat. I am trying to run faster so I can get out of the sun/heat/humidity.

The best part about not being in training yet is that I can truly enjoy running. I love going out and I love just having fun. I don't have to plot out distance before I leave my house. I am enjoying not having to pace myself to run 3 miles or 6 miles etc etc. I can just run! <3 I love it!!!!

Shake, Shake, Shake, Shake, uh Shake it

2010-06-02T20:52:00.005-04:00

This weekend was pretty much as fantastic as it could be. I loved my boys family! Yeah! They were very welcoming and I was able to relax right away with them :) We went to a baseball game, fishing out on a boat, and grilled out. It was a nice relaxing trip. OH and I successfully avoided getting a sun burn! On the boat I put sunscreen on every 30 minutes. Obsessive much?
I see them all in 3 weeks for his sister wedding, which I am really looking forward to. I have to find a dress soon, which sounds easier than it really is. I've been looking and it seems most stores are going with the "summer" dress that is made for the casual dress wearing gal. A wedding is not a time to bring out a plaid dress.

I think I will have to go downtown to a department store this weekend. The problem is I don't know what I want to wear and I am worried I will get the exact same blue that the bridesmaids are wearing. I don't want to look like the understudy for the wedding party!

Also, I have some very very exciting news. My sister is ENGAGED!! WOOO
I am so happy for her :D Her fiance told me he was going to propose to her way back in mid April. Do you know how hard it was not to tell her or give away any hints for a month and a half! OMG! SO HARD! Last night I got to celebrate with her and she asked me to be her Maid of Honor! I am so excited and happy for her! I hope I can be the greatest MOH there is...got to do some reading up on my rolls, I mean besides being awesome.
Today is Nationally Run Day. Last year I could not celebrate it because it was right after my first marathon and I was...how do you say...broken. Which reminds me, Monday was my one year anniversary for my first marathon! Hard to believe a year ago I was in San Diego running along a course, going blindly thinking that this was a good idea. What was I thinking?
Tonight I set off to run again. Cruising along in the 84˚F and humid weather...yuky. I ended up doing 1.78 miles in roughly 14:37 which equals to a 8:13 pace. Yeah I know, holy crap! I will be honest though, I can't go very long at that pace without having to stop to catch my breath but I still was able to do it. Can't complain!

Whoa whoa whoa!

2010-05-27T19:52:00.004-04:00

I have been so stressed out lately. So many different things have been on my mind and I have been worrying about everthing. Seriously, at this rate I'm going to get gray hair and have a stroke. I need to calm down. It really didn't help that I have not be able to run due to ankle hurting, weather, plans, etc etc etc. I decided tonight I would go out even though the forecast called for thunderstorms. I actually was hoping for a down pour. Something about running while its raining made me giddy.
I set off and right away I knew I was pushing the pace, taking good strong strides and gliding along the pavement. I had no route or distance planned so I was just winging it. I went up over the hill in my park (and almost died) and then along the river. I stopped about 4 times to take a quick breather and then would carry on.When it finally started to rain I was almost done with my loop - bummer - but I welcomed it with open arms and smiled as I pressed on, adding another little leg to my run.

I mapped it when I got home and.. what...that can't be right...8:10 pace!? Holy cow! 1.5 miles in 12:15. This is a record speed for me for something over a mile. I guess having pent up energy and tons of stress results in faster running?!
I feel so good and I am so happy that I was able to get out there and just run! This weekend I am going to WI to meet the boys family for the first time. I am excited, but obviously nervous too. The boy and I have planned to go for a nice little run, although he is in much better shape than I am right now...although after this run, maybe I can keep up! :D

Hope you all have a FANTASTIC Memorial Day weekend!! Goal for the weekend - don't get burned!

I Can Run Again & My Dad is Awesome

2010-05-25T11:05:00.005-04:00

I went for a nice jog last Thursday. It was so nice to finally have feet healed enough to go for a run without limping. I did an easy loop around my park making a solid 1.6 mile run. Unfortunately my ankle started to bother me and continued to bother me the rest of the weekend. Since I am not training for anything at the moment, I decided not to risk it and just rested all weekend. Its starting to feel better so I will try to jog tomorrow, even though its going to be in the 90s during the day. boo.
Still, its nice to know that I can run again. Oh running, how I have missed you! xoxo

On another note, my dad is pretty awesome. Shortly after I was born, my dad started competitively competing in Triathlons. He stopped in '93 but last year he started to get back into running thanks to my sister and me. He started to get the itch again and competed in a 1/2 marathon with us in April and then did his first tri since the early 90s a few weeks back.
This past Saturday he competed in a larger tri. I wish I could be in NC to cheer him on! He was suffering from a calf injury so he didn't feel too confident about the run part. Yet he finished and as you can see by these pictures, you really can't tell he wasn't 100%.

1000M Swim, 17 mile bike ride and a 5K run. All finished in 1:39:12! :)

My Sisters a Rock Star

2010-05-20T19:20:00.003-04:00

This past week was a little crazy. I have been traveling more than I would like to in one week, but it was with my sister and her man so I can't really complain :)

Wednesday morning we flew down to DC to put my grandfather in his final resting place in Arlington. He passed away at the beginning of March so it was hard to revisit the emotions. My grandfather had full naval honors (he was a chief) so the ceremony was so respectful and down right amazing. It felt they they knew him personally. I can't even put into worlds how moving the ceremony was and how thankful I was to be able to be there for it.

The next day Jenna, Alex and I flew up to Toronto where we stayed with Alex's mom. I have been to Canada before but never have I been to Toronto, so we did a lot of site seeing. I really really liked the city. There is a lot to see and so many cool things to do there. If my knee wasn't hurting and Jenna wasn't about to run a marathon, I would have suggested just walking around all day.

Friday night we say the Blue Jays game. Wow, that stadium is pretty awesome, but so empty. I guess thats the big difference when you see a game a Yankee Stadium or Citi Field where they are pretty close to full. We were sitting in the front row! AMAZING! It was something I will never forget and I can't believe I got to experience it.
Saturday we drove to Mississauga to go to the expo and to check into the hotel. They had a pretty decent size expo with a lot more stands then New Jersey. It was fun to go to an expo that I wasn't running the marathon in. Its always fun to watch my sister get excited about running the next day. After an Italian dinner we went to bed to have a good day of race watching/running the next day.

My sister has been dealing with piriformis syndrom that had really caused her tons of pain. I know she had been nervous all week about her ability to complete the full marathon. The day of the race her spirits seemed to be lifted and I felt her confidence reaching a new high.

My butt hurt so much after this day!

After the start, Alex and I hopped on the bikes and road like the wind to the 9K/10K mark. I love you Canada, but why do you have to play mind games with us Americans who do everything in miles? I spent the majority of the time counting in my head and trying to figure out what mile this kilometer was. 10K is about 6 miles, but it is such a brain trip when you have been biking and then try to do math!
While we were waiting, Alex got a text that simply read "bad." Now as a sister all I can think is my sister is hurt on the side of the road with the stupid piriformis acting up, helpless and hoping for someone to save her. When we did see her she was in tears but I couldn't tell whether they were tears out of frustration or tears from pain. If you know my sister then you know she is not a crier. She get angry when shes upset. I rarely see her cry, so when she does I know something is up. She decided to keep going and it was all I could do not to pull her off the course and make her quit.
Alex and I road to the next meeting spot which was the 20K (come on Canada! ahh). We got there early enough to see the elites go by which is always cool in itself.

When Jenna came she stopped and had Alex try to stretch out the muscle. I was glad she stopped worrying about the time, but at this point I really was questioning her ability to finish. Alex walked and jogged with her some then we were off to the 32K mark, which after much math we figured was close to mile 20 (math is hard). We got the best text we could have ever gotten from Jenna. She told us her smile had returned to her face! This was such a sigh of relief! I knew she was going to finish! Wasn't going to PR, but for this race, who cared!! Running injured is a feat in itself and I couldn't be prouder of her for pushing through. We she came around the corner I asked if she wanted some company for a little bit and I took off with her. I was trying to think positively and be upbeat as I can. It actually felt really good to jog with her again.
I let her go before the 33K (idk) mark and walked back to Alex and the bikes. We headed to the finish to cheer her on! As we waiting I started to get nervous for her. I really just wanted to see her and know that she was ok.

We finally saw her and we screamed as loud as we could for her! As soon as she passed us I took off to get to the finish line to see her. I knew she would be in pain, but I mostly wanted to hug her and tell her how awesome I thought she was.

I really can't believe how mentally strong my sister is! She totally rocked that marathon. True, it wasn't what she wanted the day to be like, nor was it the easiest jog she has ever been on, but damn it, she finished with a smile on her face...or a fake smile for the camera. Either way, YOU ROCK JENNA!!!!!! Congrats on completing your 3rd marathon in less than a year! This time last year you were just running to join me in San Diego. You had no seriousness about running, but you hit a stride and are now a running machine! Can't wait to rock Marine Corps Marathon with you! :)

To read my sisters report go here: http://awkwardrunner.blogspot.com/2010/05/three-timess-charm.html

This Past Week...

2010-05-10T13:26:00.000-04:00

Pictures from the Marathon via Brightroom

And my favorite:
Pretty much describes the whole NJ marathon for me.
Thank you all for your nice words about my NJ marathon. I still am unsure how I finished it...but I am proud that I was able to cross the finish line.
Since my blisters were pretty bad I couldn't run most of last week. Both Wednesday and Friday I was able to get back to the gym to get some biking going. I didn't go very long but I was happy to be active again.

On Saturday I did Bacharach Yoga.
I know I know its actually Bikram Yoga, but whenever I see the word I just say Backarach in my mind and I have yet to change it.
This was the first time I have done Bacharach Yoga and MAN OH MAN it was hot as hell. Obviously. It was 104 degrees and I think I sweated out a good 30lbs of just water. Not really, but I sure felt like I did. I think I over stretched because my hamstrings KILLED afterward, and I am pretty sure I messed up my knee and elbow (surprise surprise).

Sunday was mothers day. I have a pretty awesome mother myself so was a good daughter and called her to let her know how much I appreciate everything she has ever done for me. We go through times were we talk every day on the phone. I look to her for a lot of advice and as a way to vent or share exciting news. If I can't tell my sister something for whatever reason, my mom is the first person I will call.
Also for mothers day, Jenna and I signed up to run the 4 mile race in Central Park, thanks to Bacharach and losing 2/3 toe nails (that need to fall off) I was pretty much planning on walking/jogging the whole thing. Since Jenna is also having some major issues with her hip, we got the chance (first time in our running careers) to start and finish a race together. It was nice to chat about our lifes (it had been a WHOLE WEEK since we had seen each other - in sister time that is equal to a year in normal friend time). We were able to cross the finish line together which was the best feeling ever. I was so glad we were running together :) Even though we bother were falling apart.

We head to DC on Wednesday for my Grandfathers burial in Arlington Cemetery, then we fly to Canada to play in Toronto and for my sister's marathon! Lots of traveling but it will be good to see my family and to go on a mini vacation to the great north.

Oh yeah, this is my 200th post. I thought it was suppose to be the last one, but I was incorrect. So yeah! 200th post! Woot Woot!

This race was bananas. B-A-N-A-N-A-S

2010-05-04T11:01:00.010-04:00

"I'm going to die. Its too hot. I am not going to finish." - Mile 16

Lets do a little Quentin Tarantino action and now go back to the beginning to see what made me text my sister this.

The New Jersey marathon would be my second marathon (3rd one I have train for). After being out for 4 weeks do to some sexy f'ankles, I was back into running and even PRed in my 1/2 marathon. But now this was a whole new chapter. A chance to show that I could come back from a crazy injury; a chance to run 26.2 miles once again...and I was terrified.

Almost the same sign as last years. I LOVE IT!

Headed to Jersey. :D

At the expo

Team Banana!

My sister Jenna and her boyfriend Alex were going to join me in Jersey to cheer me on so we all headed to Long Branch, NJ Saturday afternoon for the tiny expo (compared to San Diego RnR and Boston's expos). I got my number then it was off to check into the sketchiest motel ever (sorry I booked that creepy place). We went to The Olive Garden for some carb loading. That has to be one of the greatest restaurants ever. I could drink that salad dressing.
I was still nervous about the next day I tried my best not to even think about the day to come.

I had decided to "dress up" and wear all yellow. I did this to remind myself that this was going to be just for fun, I hadn't fully trained and I really was probably not going to have an amazing PR day so I might as well laugh and enjoy the day. We renamed ourselves Team Banana! After all, I looked like a running banana!

See there was even a giant inflatable monkey! TEAM BANANA!

The we got to the start area at 7:30 and with a race not starting until 9, we had a lot of time to kill. But after lining up in a non coral start (wtf Jersey!?), saying goodbye to Jenna and Alex, I was off.
Everything was going well. I was running 3 minutes and walking 1. I was in my head running my own race. The race started on the ocean where it was chilly but as SOON as we took the first turn away from the water front, BAM. I got slapped by humidity like I called its mother a name. It felt about 30 degrees warmed inland.
Right before mile 1 I got passed by a squirrel (I passed him later - he took the head off and was walking).
The race was residential so many people were around with hoses and sprinklers offering the chance for the runners to get temporary relief. It was wonderful. Of course it was only great for that one second then it was hot water all over.

Peeling the banana skin back

I saw Jenna and Alex with their awesome sign (I didn't know they made it); It made my day! It was great to see them. They gave me some Gatorade and I was off again. When I crossed the bridge to hit mile 4 we passed by runners going to mile 8 and RunningLam saw me and yelled out. It was so nice to see him!
The next 5 miles were all the same to me. Hot. Humid. Sprinklers. Long lines for portapoties (did I mention I had to pee since mile 2?) and an occasional hot gross breeze. I was already feeling the heat.

The only thing that really kept me going was knowing I would soon seen Jenna and Alex again right before mile 9! You can tell how happy I was to see them...but if you look at how I was running you can see I was already in pain. I am a toe runner...I had started to get blisters at mile 4 so I think I started to try to run more heel-toe. They hooked me up with some Gatorade and I was off again.

Mile 12ish. RELIEF! Back on the board walk were a cool breeze saved my life.
"GIVE ME WATER!" I made Alex and Jenna buy my some water because that is all I really wanted. This was right after the 1/2 way point and I was so thirsty for cool water. I was envious of all the 1/2 marathoner. I had seen so many people pass out already, I was worried I could be next. The whole first 1/2 of the marathon was full of sirens.
After I recharged I was back on my way to do loop #2.

Getting sprayed with water

Trying to dry out my ear

DEATH on a stick. I was dying at this point. It was so hot. I had texted Jenna around 16 saying "I'm going to die. Its too hot. I am not going to finish." I really felt horrible. I didn't see how finishing was possible. I really thought I was going to pass out and be carried away in a stretcher. But knowing I was about to see Jenna and Alex again kept me going. I was so happy to see them right before mile 17. They have no idea!
Since I could look over and see the people at mile 21 I seriously considered how I could cheat without anyone noticing. I actually spend several minutes fantasizing about it as I continued to run.

If that look doesn't say how I was feeling at mile 21.5, nothing well. I asked Jenna to run/walk with me for a while. It was no longer a run 3 walk 1. I had changed it to a walk 1 run walk 1 back at mile 18 but at this point that was all forgotten too. It was now a run to X point and then walk until I can muster up enough energy and inner strength to go some more. Jenna was running with me and it felt like she was going at an 8 minute mile speed. I know it was probably only an 11 minute mile pace or something. I was so gone but I realized that there was a small chance I could sub 6.
I said goodbye to Jenna around mile 23.5 and was back on my own. I was miserable. I felt like I could cry...but I was too tired to produce tears. Jenna told me that it was hotter than Satan's bedroom and I agreed! I just wanted to make it back to the ocean so I could feel the breeze. I passed mile 24 and I knew I could finish but that sub 6 was going to be cutting it close.
I can say that it took every ounce of energy I had to push through and run when I did. I wanted to run the whole last mile, but that wasn't going to happen. I wanted to run the past .2 miles...but that didn't even happen.

I sprinted to the end (probably a 10.5 minute mile pace) and pushed through every ache and blister I had on my body. I crossed the finished and Jenna screamed my name. I looked at her with exhaustion and in my mind told her one minute but I probably just turned around and asked for water. I got some water and went to the med tent with Jenna and Alex. I needed ice. I needed to sit. I needed to drink water. I needed something.
They gave me ice and checked my vitals (no need for that, just wanted ice for my legs).

Team banana eating a banana. I don't even like bananas.

Not sure why but this is one of my favorite pictures of the day. I was on the phone with my mom.

I PRed by about 7 minutes. Official time: 6:00:40.22 (damn those 40 seconds and 22 milliseconds!). I couldn't be happier with my performance though. I had barely trained and it was 94 with high humidity. Lets be honest, I totally rocked that.
And what is to follow a marathon?
Margaritas. YUM YUM YUM.
Thank you for all of your support. I really felt so touched to get everyone's messages. Thank you SO SO SO much to my wonderful sister and Alex. You guys really saved me out there. No way I could have finished with out you guys!
That race was the hardest race I have ever had to do in my entire life. I hope I never have to do that again! Next race is Marine Corps in October! I can't wait. I have a feeling this will be my race! :D
Now I just have to deal with my 45 blisters and sore legs and arms :(

Nervousness is Not Just a River in Egypt

2010-04-28T15:55:00.002-04:00

Thank for all your encouragement on my marathon Sunday. I'm still nervous, but it helps to know so many of you believe in me :)

I wanted to get a long run in Saturday or Sunday but MN had a rainy weekend, so "NO RUN FOR YOU!" I've been keeping a low profile when it comes to running, mostly because of my nervousness. 13 months ago I ran my first marathon and rocked it. I finished it a little over 6 hours. Looking back, I was so confident that I would finish I had no worries, just anxiousness. Now I have tons of self doubts and "what if's" running in my head. I need to knock it off and just remember why I am running this marathon: To have FUN. Running has never been a competitive thing for me. It's never been about time or getting faster. Its about running one run and then running another.

Oh, and beer. Beer is another reason why I run.
When I started training, I was focus and dedicated. After my ankle shattered those dreams and gave me a huge set back, my focus changed to just run when I can and get the most out of them. Honestly I haven't run nearly enough. So, to try to push my nervousness back I went for a lunch run today. Nice and easy 33 minute ish/3 miler. It was windy today! Why is crappy weather following me!! :( Running this run definitely helped me refocus my energy and get excited about Sunday. Still nervous, but now add in some excitement.
I found my all yellow outfit. I have plans to paint my nails yellow and get some yellow ribbon for my hair. Hey, if I couldn't train the way I wanted to train might as well have a little fun with my marathon race outfit. :) I'll post pictures later.

Goals:
1. Finish
2. Smile
3. Make someone on the course laugh
4. Give high fives to little kids
5. No vomiting
6. Don't Die (its suppose to get up to 88˚!)

Time Goals:
#1 Finish!
(Secret goal) #2 - PR
(Secret goal) #3 - Sub 6 hours
(Secret goal) #4 - I'll never tell

I've mentioned it before, but if you can please donate to my friend Lydia is doing Team in Training. She is so close to her goal! Her marathon is also Sunday out in Eugene. Even $1 can help! http://pages.teamintraining.org/or/eugene10/lchambekwm

In other news this is my 199th post. I feel like I should do something "big" for my next post. Any ideas? Answer questions? do a top list? blog like nothing is different? make a rap video? Guest Post? Give away?

I'm Back Like I Forgot Something

2010-04-23T09:10:00.004-04:00

Yeah, I've been totally MIA recently. I haven't blogged in 57239972 days and I haven't read anyone's blog. Bad Jocelyn! But in my defense, the last week has been a whirl wind. I have been go-go-go when all I really wanted to do was sleep-sleep-sleep. Last night was the first night in 3 weeks that I got a good night of sleep and slept through the whole night! *Fist Bump*

Danny, the winner of last seasons Biggest Loser was at the expo! Ahh I was soo excited !!

Last weekend I went to Boston with my sister to go to the Boston Marathon expo and to see a Red Sox game with our friend from Cali, Punk Rock Runner. Check out his blog, He's funny as hell. He was running the marathon and had invited us up to meet him and have some fun in bean town. I have to say he is just as witty and funny in person as he is on twitter and his blog. I had an awesome time with him and his son, who indecently looks just like Tim Lincecum.

The game was a lot of fun and I love Fenway. It was my first time at the stadium and it was definitely a cool place to be. Of course the weather was PMSing that day and went from freezing and windy to nice and sunny, to cold rand rainy, to cloudy, to rainy, to sunny...etc etc. I had a hat, ear muffs, gloves and mittens, a scarf and my winter jacket. Ron was laughing at me for looking like i was about to go skiing. However, at the end of the way I was the one who was dressed most appropriately. :)
I was suppose to run 16 miles that weekend but exhaustion got the best of me so I decided that running when I was dead tired would not be the smartest thing I've ever done. After talking to my sister I decided to follow her advice and split up my the 16 miler. So on Tuesday I woke up early and ran 8 miles. It was soooo cold! In my apartment it seemed to be 30 degrees! This is why I don't like spring. I have to layer in the morning but by the time it gets to be 7 I'm stuck with a jacket that I no longer want and pants that I want to take off. Grr. I ran the 8 miles in about 1:35 which was awesome for me since my body was so cold.
Lunch time came around and I changed and went out for a run. I decided to go a little further than I normally would have gone, just because I was enjoying the lovely weather. 3.5 miles later (40 minutes) I was sore and my hamstring was mad at me. Now I was starting to wonder if my last run after work would happen. My feet hurt, my legs hurt and I was tired!
I changed at work so I wouldn't have any excuses when I got home. All I had to do what 4.5 miles. Thats it. OH. EM. GEE. It was hard...so hard. I walked so much and when I was running I'm sure I was running at snail speed. BUT I did finish the crazy run and I am glad I finished!
Sadly...I am not feeling any better about my marathon that is coming up. I feel so under prepared. NJ Marathon is in a little over 1 week. 1 WEEK! Ahhh This weekend I will be in Minnesota but am still planning on doing 6-8 miles. :) Hopefully my "I'm not going to do well at this marathon" feeling will fade. Otherwise I plan on doing shots every mile to calm my nerves!

I Put Some New Shoes On

2010-04-14T17:02:00.007-04:00

I got new kicks yesterday! :) Same kind I always get but still...they are new and exciting! :D
I am really digging these lunch time runs. Today I decided to mix up where I was running and went to a park near the hospital. But the park failed me. No trails...so I decided to go to local roads. Since I don't work in the city I get a nice change in scenery when I run during lunch. What, no honky horns? No random garbage? No high building?
It's always nice to run though a neighborhood once and a while. I decided to take my run down a nice residential street that frankly needed to be repaved...whad up potholes! My new shoes got dirty so fast thanks to the random sand and dirt that was on this "paved" road.
The first 2 miles went pretty well. The street was mostly covered with nice trees and there was a lovely breeze. I ran over two different streams and by a pond...pretty!
But the second half....oh no no no. Hill after hill after hill! Every time I saw a hill I said "ew! f*ck" or "sh*t" or "f*ck f*ckity f*ck f*ck" (that is edited so no one gets offended!). These hills so hard and this part of the run was not covered! True it was a nice 68 degrees out but my goodness!
I tackled the 4 miles in 40ish minutes. Pretty happy that I was able to get this run in. After Sunday's 7 miles my left quad had been killing me. It wasn't like it was just sore it was like I strained it; It even hurt to press on. Seriously, can I not be injured for like 5 minutes!?

Exhausted

2010-04-12T11:01:00.009-04:00

Wow, I am exhausted. Actually, exhausted doesn't even begin to describe what I feel right now. Please excuse any typos/spelling/grammar errors...I'm so out of it (not like I don't make tons of typos when I am feeling good...). I worked all weekend. Weekend? What weekend?
Saturday I was at work from 9-6:45ish and Sunday I was here 9-4:30. Phew. I wanted to get a good run in Saturday night but I got home so much later than I thought I would and I was way too tired to physically get up and move. Although I felt slightly guilty for not getting out, I think it was a smart move to stay inside.
Sunday, I was lucky enough to get out of work by 4:30 so I was home by 5:15 and out the door by 5:20. My original plan was to run for an hour and a half, not going for speed or distance, but when I started running I felt like poop. My body was saying "no no no no" even though my mind was saying "yes yes yes yes." I went with a run 3 minutes walk 1 minute routine; I figured I could tell myself that I only had to run for 3 minutes straight, which seemed so much better than having to run for X about of miles. Since I was feeling craptatic I thought about changing my 90 minute run into a 30 minute run; Hey, at least I would get some sort of a work out in! As I rounded my park I decided to keep on going and my new goal was 45 minutes. I decided to head down Broadway, which was a different route for me, to keep things interesting. When I got closer to the 45 minute mark I decided to go ahead and stay out for about an hour. Then I started to think, why not run down to 181st street, then cut over to the Hudson Greenway on the west side and head home - making a nice circle. So, my plan changed again, screw the time and pace - go for the route.
OH MAN was it hilly! I felt like I hit every road that had an uphill! Once I looped around and finally headed DOWNHILL on the greenway I ran into Brandon (@Ironbrandon on twitter) and we stopped and chatted. It was really nice to talk with him and once I started to run again my spirits were up and I was feeling good. This was about the hour mark so I decided to do a run through my park again once I got closer to home.
Overall the run was a success and actually helped clear my mind and put my back in a happier place. I guess working for 7 days straight will do that to you! I am so happy that I have running as an outlet and a stress reliever! I did 7.17 miles in 1:26 which is about a 12 minute mile pace...but that is fine by me! Slow and uphill...hell yeah I finished!
Once I was home and watching some crappy TV I realized that I hadn't seen my cat all night...in fact, I don't think I saw him the night before. He is like a dog in the fact that he follows me around and will greet me at the door when I come home. I asked my roommates and they hadn't seen him either so it was time to to a search. Now my cat is NOT a hider, nor is he one to not come when he is called. He had been acting so weird lately (frisky and always trying to get out our screen-less windows) I was wondering if he maybe way sick and was hiding...or worse, he slipped from the window and fell down from our 4th floor apartment. We decided to move the search party to the hallway and the lady on the second floor said that her son was playing with him the afternoon before - then got out when someone opened the front door. My heart sank. My indoor cat was outside in NYC for over 24 hours.
We went outside and I started to call and whistle for him but I slowly started to tell myself that I no longer have a cat. All I wanted to know is that he was ok, but I had a big fear that he was hit by a car or attacked by another animal. We then looked through a gated alley way to see if he was there. We saw black cat in the middle and then somehow my roommate spotted Rigby right next to the gate!! I was SO SO SO relieved that he was ok, but there was no way to actually get to him! We got the super from the apartment next door and he opened the gate for us. He's a gray cat, but I could tell he was fitly. He was so hungry and so tired. Even this morning he was still so sleepy. Poor kitty was probably so stressed out. :( I can't believe how lucky I was to find him! I have no idea how he escaped but I am putting a leash on him and tying him in my room!!

Its Gettin Hot in Herre

2010-04-08T09:07:00.007-04:00

Just some pictures from the NYC 13.1 Marathon. I really wish that first one was in focus! Damn professional photographer!

Holy heat wave batman! Phew its a hot one. Yesterday NYC beat all types of records for April. It was 91 in Central Park. YUKE! I love summer and I love the heat. However, it is April and I am not mentally or physically ready to be slapped around by 80+ degree weather.
After the 1/2 marathon I couldn't walk let alone run thanks to all my blisters. Yesterday was the first day that things seemed to be better so I decided to go for a run at lunch. Figures it would be a day that was so hot in the afternoon. I ran 3 miles and nearly died! Not because of running but because I ran sans water and by mile 2 I considered drinking out of a stream. Note to self, even though its only 3 miles, if its hot I need to bring water with me. I walked most of the last mile and somehow made it back to my office.
If you were wondering, no I do not shower after I run at lunch. Gross? Maybe, but I bring a whole slew of stuff to freshen up and hide any odors. And I figure if I DO still smell that maybe people will finally leave me alone at work! hahaha.
Speaking of work, I am working all this weekend :( For those of you who don't know, I am a graphic designer and this weekend we are learning a new software to make images look 3D. Kind of cool and cutting edge. I don't think another sports photography place is doing anything like it. I am excited to learn, but I am NOT excited to be here 9-5 both Saturday and Sunday. Who doesn't just looovee 14 day weeks. I had plans for a 10-12 miler this weekend and now I am not sure when I will squeeze that in. I might just do 8 miles Saturday and 8 Sunday.
I am getting really excited to run NJ Marathon. I have decided that Team Jocelyn's color will be bright yellow. I just need to find an outfit to sport the color! My sister and her boyfriend will wear yellow as well to support me! :D
Like most of the people I know, I did not get into the NYC Marathon. But that's ok because I signed up for the Marine Corps Marathon. oooOOOOoo I'm so excited. I have wanted to run this marathon for a really long time (well since I started to run back in the fall of 08) and now I finally get to! My sister AND my dad will be joining me. This will be my dads first marathon so i am excited he decided to go ahead and take the plunge.

How to PR at a 1/2 Marathon

2010-04-04T20:56:00.010-04:00

We all want to get a PR. We love the feeling of knowing that we beat our previous record. Love the knowledge that we are improving in our speed and our racing skills. So how do you do it? How do you get that big PR? I'll tell you.
Step 1. Injure yourself.
I'm not talking an injury that puts you out of the game for 6 months, but like a little strain. Something that could take you out for oh about roughly 4 weeks. Once this is done, make sure not to really do TOO much during your hiatus from running. Once you are able to run again, only do 2 short runs.
Step 2: Blisters.
Make sure to get a blisters during the 1/2 marathon. This is key! Around mile 6 would be preferable because at least you can get a few miles in but still have more than 1/2 of the race left! If they can be on your toes and balls of your feet...BONUS!
Step 3: Consider quitting.
After all, if you don't finish the race what does it matter? By mile 9 you should be seriously thinking about walking of the course and having a beer. Or just plan sitting down in the grass.
If you do all of these thing you will PR by roughly 9 minutes.

Pre race

If you haven't guessed it, I PR in the New York 13.1 Marathon this weekend. My parents were visiting my sister and me for Easter; My dad was going to run the 1/2 with Jenna and me. After I got hurt there were a lot of questions as to whether I would even be able to run this race. My dad and Jenna are in shape and have been running fools. I was just excited to dress up and have some fun. I had no intention of running super fast or putting forth a lot of effort. I had decided to do the Jeff Galloway run/walk method to make this race happen. I ran 4 miles and walked 45 seconds. This actually really helped me a lot! It MADE me rest and walk.
I saw my mom at mile 4 which really helped. Next I saw her at mile 6. I was already starting to feel pretty worn out and I told her so. She asked if I was going to continue on and I said "yup." Not really sure why, but I felt like this race was not over. When I got to mile 6.5ish, I discovered all my blisters on both feet! I decided to slow it down and run 3ish minutes and walk 1.
Once I got to mile 9 I thought about quitting...and I tweeted it. I mean, I wasn't trying to do anything special, I was just trying run. And I didn't HAVE to run. And I would forgive myself for stopping. I FELT LIKE DYING! But I also made the mistake of realizing that I COULD actually have a good time. Like a PR time. WTF!
So then I got to mile 10 and I question why I was still running. I really think it was because I saw some finishers with the medals...so pretty! I want one. 3 miles was all I had left. THEN mile 11 came and my feet were hurting so badly; Maybe I should crawl the last two miles? I felt like death on toast! I text my mom and let her know I was dying - she promised she was at mile 12. She was not at mile 12! But I did get a call from Penny who left me the most amazing message of my phone. I love you girl! And I got a Blackberry message from my college friend Lydia who reminded me of the time I almost puked after 2 miles. She told me to go to my happy place: Sitting on a beach with a margarita. Oh she knows me so well!
My mom was near mile 12.5 but I saw my dad and Jenna before I saw her. They were so awesome that they ran a little bit with me - even though they were so sore and tired. By the time I saw my mom I knew I was so close to the finish and a PR I couldn't give up. Although I was going to be sooo MAD if I PRed. I mean, NOT training and NOT really being in the best shape wasn't the way I thought I would get a great race time.
The end of the race was really messed up and hard to follow. I had no idea where I was going! But I finished. AND I PRed by 9 minutes! Thank you to everyone who left me a message on twitter encouraging me to keep running. You guys are so amazing! And thanks for your congratulations. Sorry I couldn't respond to each of your individually - hard to do from a phone - but I read each one and I smiled! Meant a lot to me. THANK YOU!
Time: 2:35:16

My dad got a sub 2 hour and my sister got a 5 minute PR! Both totally rocked it! So proud of them both!

On the Road Again

2010-03-29T09:58:00.000-04:00

Thank you all for your kind words in my last post. I'm glad you guys are excited as I am! I'm still trying to figure out how I can run my full marathon on May 2nd without killing myself. I guess I'll take it one day at a time!
So, I've been on two runs since the good news arrived. I went for one very very easy run during my lunch break on Thursday (no I couldn't wait until after work). I think Marlene from Mission to a(nother) marathon would be proud! I really liked running during lunch. It was a great break from the day and I didn't have to worry about running once I got home. I didn't bring a watch, nor did I plot out the distance; I just ran. I was feeling so good, so pumped, so ampt up on adrenaline that I had to force myself to walk so I wouldn't get too carried away. Last thing I want to do is injured myself yet again. I kept what felt like a slow pace and would try to walk off and on. After mapping it out when I got back to the office I ran 2.4 miles. This is slightly farther than I wanted to go, but I still felt so great and was on a runners high the rest of the day!
I took Friday off to see how the ankles reacted to the run and to make sure I didn't over do it! My body was sore which confused me but I had to remember that I haven't ran in 4 weeks. So weird to be sore from such a short run.
Saturday, I ran with out the watch again and without enough layers. I guess a random cold front moved in while I wasn't looking. BURR. This made my run just over a mile mostly because my ears hurt and I was freezing. Damn you weather! Yet, I also think it was good that it wasn't this absolutely gorgeous day that made me want to stay outside for ever. I walked a lot during this run too.
I am going to the gym tonight to get another easy run in. I would prefer to run outside so I don't know what pace I am trotting along at and don't find myself obsessing over it, but its tsunami season here (for the next 3 days) so I also don't want to risk get sick or drowning.
I have a 1/2 marathon this Saturday that my sister and my dad are both running in. I'm excited to run/walk it. I use to have a goal to PR but this had now changed to "don't get kicked off the course." I just have to maintain a 16 minute mile pace which is do able if I run/walk it.
On another note...Look how awesome my dad is running in the duatholon 2 weekends ago! He's super fast but he's claiming he will run with us for this 1/2 marathon...pssh.

Good News! :D

2010-03-24T17:33:00.003-04:00

My new bff is the podiatrist I went to see today for the second opinion. After yesterdays heart breaking visit to my orthopedic, I really was hoping for any sort of second opinion. I was told that I couldn't run for yet another 3 weeks. WHAAAT. I found this to be a load of crap. If the swelling had yet to come down, what made him think another 3 weeks off it with PT would do anything? Pssh.
I biked angerly yesterday for 25 minutes before flicking off the stationary bike at the gym and bidding the place ado. Why couldn't I run!?
So today was my last hope. My last final chance to get a different diagnostic and hopefully see a light at the end of this very long and stationary tunnel. He checked my feet drew some lines on my ankles and calves and had me walk down the hallway and back twice.
Verdict: A normal person walks from the outside of their heel to their big toe. I spend just a little bit too long on the outside of my foot which in turn causes my knees to overcompensate and move inwards ending the stride at an unbanned place. He guessed that I had a short big toe bone and took xrays to confirm it. Yup, small bone. I can write a Thank You letter to my parents for that one. Having a small bone in my toe is probably a big reason why I walk and run the way I do. This in turn could cause me to have sexy bunions later on in life. He gave me a shot in both ankles to make the swelling go down; A second shot will be given next week. I need to get some orthotics as well and am not allowed to go barefoot - even at home.
What does this all mean? I CAN RUN AGAIN! He didn't see a reason why I am not still running (besides the pain I was getting before) and told me to wait a day or so to run. He has run the NYC marathon 8 times, so I know he understands the whole "I NEED TO RUN" thing. I am free to do anything as long as I don't have pain!
::cue little tween girl who just saw Taylor Lautner::

OMG OMG OMG!!!

WOOOO! I am so excited. I really feel like the possibilities are endless now. I MAY still be able to run the half in a week; Maybe if I jog/walk it! AND I MAY still be able to run the marathon in May! I feel like running 30 miles right now from adrenaline and excitement alone!
Thanks for all your support! These three weeks have been so rough for me. I really hate it - plus I think I've gained about 10lbs.
I promise myself this:
Never will I take running for granted again. If I feel too tired to run, or just plan lazy, I need to remember this moment and these past three weeks. Run because you can! :)

Falling Apart

2010-03-22T11:26:00.008-04:00

I'm falling apart. Slowly, but surely by body is protesting me doing anything fun in life.
ANKLE WATCH 2010:
Still swollen and both were hurting this weekend. Lots of icing and such but of course, nothing really helps the situation. PT tonight and ortho tomorrow...someone help me! :(
I am also having major allergy issues. I always have had allergies; I use to get allergy shots even! But alas, mold and dust will always be my nemeses. A couple of times I will wake up in the morning (feelin like P Diddy) and one of my eyes would be swollen. I am not talking about "kind of sort of" swollen nor "wow my eye is irritated" swollen, I'm talking about "whoa, who punched me in my face last night while I was sleeping" swollen. My eye lids now have stretch marks (no, I'm not joking). Also when I blow my nose dry blood come out - ew. I've also had a sinus pressure headache for a couple of weeks.

I told you I was falling apart! To counter my body's rebellion I am going to see as many doctors/therapist/specialist/voodooist that I can this week.
Today
Regular doctor's appointment at 2
PT @ 6:30
Tuesday
Orthopedic @ 11
Wednesday
Podiatrist @ 2 (finally decided to get a second opinion)

I'll have to fill Thursday and Friday up too...may go see an allergies? Acupuncturist? Witch Doctor? So many choices!

I didn't work out this weekend and I have to say that I feel like I didn't work out this weekend, but ate like I worked out this weekend. FAIL on so many account. However, it was a good weekend and all worth it. Penny from Planet Ynnep Running (@southbaygirl) was in town to run the NYC 1/2 marathon. We all went out Friday night to meet up with her. She's awesome and a lot of fun to hang out with.

Then on Sunday I went to the finish line to watch her and my friend Kristin run/finish the race. I somehow missed Kristin but she did call me right after finishing. How the hell did I miss her! And I ALMOST missed Penny. But luckily Jenna pointed her out. It was a great race to watch and a great day for us NYCer. I know Penny was hoping for colder overcast weather, but we had that last weekend so we all loved the sun.

After the race a large group of us headed over to Heartland Brewery @ south seaport to have brunch. I met some awesome people and I had a great afternoon. It was great to finally met Penny though and I really hope I can get out to LA to run a race or she gets into the NYC marathon to run a race out here again!

Run because you can!

ANKLE WATCH 2010: Its Not Looking Good

2010-03-18T09:42:00.006-04:00

No this is not a short chubby kids foot/ankle

Time to give you all an update on my ankle. I'm going to go ahead and steal this from Claire at Will Run for Beer..."Fankle". Yup, as you see in the picture above, my fankle is swollen still (if not more so than before).
I finally got my self to PT last night. I liked the place - waaaaay better than where I have gone in the past to do Physical Therapy. However, the physical therapist seemed so focused on the fact that my foot naturally points when resting. My calves are super tight, but they have been my entire life; My foot hasn't changed. I don't know if she thinks that this has anything to do with my fankle explosion (not really explosion, but swolleness), but I would think it would have bothered me long before this. She had me do a bunch of calf stretches and gave me a few to do at home. I'm going to do them because at this point...I have nothing to lose!
Runamyrun on twitter said that it didn't sound like tendinitis...but I have no idea what else it could be! To say I am frustrated is a gross understatement. I would adore to see some kind of improvement - anything really. I see the orthopedic next Tuesday but I doubt he is going to clear me to run. At this point I am thinking about changing my full marathon in May to a 1/2 - which would suck but at least I could still get a run in since I paid for my hotel and the race already.
Tonight I am planning on hitting up the gym to do some biking and upper body. At least I can still work out, right?

Total Elliptical of the Heart

2010-03-14T20:54:00.009-04:00

Day two of the "Jocelyn can't run but she can still exercise" tour. Thankfully the wind was next to gone and the rain was only a dusting making it much easier to walk. We had gust up to 58mph yesterday!!! Category 1 hurricanes start at 75mph! CRAZZY...Needless to say my umbrella is broken and I had to hide behind some building so I wouldn't get blown away.
I headed to the gym later in the afternoon because of daylight savings...and being lazy. My roommates still didn't accompany me, although they were watching the food network so I really can't blame them.
After my hour bike ride yesterday my booty was sore. As were my hamstrings and other various leg muscles. Still I was determined to get back on the bike for another hour. Silly rabbit. There are 8 bikes in my gym. 4 are the seated with a back rest and 4 are the uprights. 3/4 of the uprights were out of order (FAIL). The rest of the bikes were taken. Nooooooo!!!!
So I did what any normal person would. I pouted and thought about waiting for someone to get up and leave. But there was already a line for the bikes so I sulked over to an elliptical/cross country skiing type machine. I set it to fat loss since last night's dinner and this mornings breakfast was probably basted in butter.

And I read. I will admit that reading on an elliptical is far more difficult than on a bike. For one thing when you are on a bike you are not moving vertically up and down. Another thing is that this work out made me sweat like whoa and I had to move the book and turn the fan on every now and then. Oooohh a fan ON the machine...so fancy! After a tough 30 minutes I trotted over to the bikes.

Tha's how a read and rode yesterday. So easy when I would lean forward and place my arm on the rest. Sadly I was only on the bike for roughly 4 minutes before I decided my tushy and my legs deserved a break. So I went downstairs and concentrated on working on my core and then I did a couple arm things that I didn't get to hit yesterday. Yeah! A good work out indeed. When I saw that it was 4 pm I was convinced that it was wrong. I even restarted my phone to make sure. Hour and a 1/2? Hot damn. Go me.
On another note, I have decided to try to brush AND floss twice a day. I know that seems pretty normal, but lets face the facts; Sometimes I don't brush at night. And I only really floss when I know I'm about to see the dentist. I want to make it to my 25th birthday - end of June - flossing and brushing in the morning and at night. I started Thursday and my mouth already feels better. :D High five for dental hygiene.
And I started to date him (pictured above). As soon as I started reading this months runners world I opened up the cover...our eyes met...it was love a first sight. We are planning a summer wedding.

Finally

2010-03-13T15:21:00.006-05:00

WOOOO HOOOO!!!
Guess what I did...I haven't done it in oh...17 days...I worked out! Holy moley guacamole stromboli! I've had two rather rough weeks, so I decided to pull myself together, face the rain and wind, and walk to the gym. NYC is having crazy winds and rain today. I was happy that I didn't get stuck with beautiful weather on the first day of spring... no wait, let me explain. It would have made me bitter to be inside!! I don't own a bike so the option to ride outdoors wouldn't have been there...and the temptation to knock over a Chinese food delivery boy and steal his bike would have been elevated to red alert.
Before I left I asked my favorite roommates if they wanted to join me. She declined saying she "had to um...get ready to go to my mom's house later tonight." hahaha and I don't know what his excuse was. I reminded him that his new years resolution was to go to the gym. He promised to join me tomorrow, but after I said "I'll hold you to that," I realized that he was thinking I wouldn't be going. Silly roommates. I also think they were just chicken to walk in the nasty weather.
My gym is not fancy so there are only 6 TVs - 2 of which are Spanish channels. I decided not to rely on Telemundo to entertain me and brought a book. I chose the "Around the World" hill setting and pedaled away while I dove into my girlie book. Only once in a while did I realize "damn the resistance just got super tough" - so my book did a good job in distracting me.
I made it 15 miles in an hour and worked up a good sweat. Stairs are not easy to walk down after being on a bike for an hour. My legs sort of gave way a couple times. Still didn't fall! HOLLA. I did a 15 minute upper body work out and then stretched.
I am so glad I made it to the gym today. It has been so long and I was starting to feel very unfit and well, just gross! Now I feel refreshed and ready for tomorrows work out :D
FIST BUMP!

Distractions

2010-03-09T16:49:00.002-05:00

Sometimes you wish for something, and you get it. Sometimes you wish for something and you don't get it. And sometimes you wish for something and you get it, but its not at all what you had in mind.
I wished for distractions. Something to keep my mind off of the fact that I can't run for 3 weeks. I was lucky enough to have a vacation planned to Wisconsin this past weekend to visit my high school friends (I lived there for 5 years). As I looked forward to Friday I was also still sad and feeling sorry for my non running self.
Then I got the call that no one ever wants to get. My grandfather had passed away Wednesday morning. The distraction that I didn't have in mind happened and my world was turned upside down. I still went to WI but cut my trip short so I could make it to the funeral. I got to see all of my old friends and we had a lot of fun catching up and chatting. I still can't believe how cheap drinks are out there!
Sunday I caught a 6am flight to Jacksonville to be with my family. I love my loud crazy family (we did a shot of fireball whiskey to honor him) and I wish we didn't live so far away from each other sometimes. It was good to catch up with them. There is something about being with everyone that helps you mourn the loss yet celebrate the life of your loved one so much easier. I will miss my grandfather immensely, but I know he is finally resting in peace.
Since he and my grandmother served in WWII (he was in the Navy), he will be laid to rest next to her this coming May in Arlington Cemetery. I didn't get to see my grandmothers burial so I look forward to being there for his. It will be nice to be with the whole family again and get a final farewell.
I still don't feel completely here right now. I came to work today just to get back to something normal, but its been hard. I am beyond exhausted - mentally and physically. In 4 days I was in 5 cities (including layovers), on 3 airlines and experienced every emotion possible. Yet I still want to run, but I still can't. But when I am able, you better believe I will dedicate some miles to my grandfather. Love you Dziadek (thats Polish for grandfather)!

RIP
1/27/25 - 3/3/10

The Diagnostic

2010-03-02T12:54:00.005-05:00

ANKLE WATCH 2010
And the verdict is....
I have tendinitis. BOOOOOOOO. What does this mean for me? No running for three weeks! My doctor then asks "Is this ok with you?" Um no! I have marathons to train for, waterfront runs to do, treadmill training. Waahhhh.
Once he learned that I was in the midst of training he decided to send me to PT to accelerate my healing rate on top of giving me an anti inflammatory to take twice a day for 3 weeks. He is also known to give runners a cortisone shot before their marathon...go on....

Is this good news? Of course not. I don't want to not run. Running is my life. Its the one thing that really holds everything together. Its the peanut butter on my sandwich, its the marshmallows in my rice crispy treats, its the frosting on my 7 layer chocolate cake, its the glass to my beer...
I am allowed to bike and do none impacting kind of things. Yawwwnn, ok excuse me, just hearing that made me fall asleep out of shear boredom. I don't own a bike so it will be in the gym...lord help me. I hope I don't go insane. I'm going to look at some other none impact cross training things. I want to keep my fitness up but not effect any of my heal time.
Could it have been worse? Well yeah, duh. I know I will see the silver lining soon enough (I'm already coming around after crying when I left the doctors office). Everyone keeps telling me that 3 weeks will fly by, I hope you are right.
Now I am doing a lot of research to find a good Physical Therapist. I am tired of the crappy ones I've been to. Lots of research. If you know of one in the Westchester/NYC area, let me know! I'll check it out.
Thanks for the love on twitter when the news broke. I really felt all of the love!

Ankle Crankle

2010-03-01T17:48:00.001-05:00

Not to be Debbie Downer or anything, but not running is really starting to get to me. I still haven't attempted to lace up my running shoes and frolic out the door. I'm playing it safe...stupid ankle. I look at my Asics every morning and evening and sigh.
Thank you all for your kind messages to me on this blog, twitter and Daily Mile. It really is nice to get comfort from all of you guys, plus it helps re-ensure that I am doing the right thing. :)

ANKLE WATCH 2010
So far the swelling as yet to subside.

"Hey Jocelyn, for the swelling have you tried..."
...Icing - doesn't help.
...Ibuprofen - Didn't do anything
...Elevating - just made me realize how uncomfortable that is.
...Drinking heavily - just made me drunk

Actually everything I have tried as only helped dull the pain that I have while lounging around the apartment. I really didn't go out on the town too much this weekend and when I did, it was to sit at a bar and watch hockey or another less important sporting event. Even with the minimal walking I did, by the time I got home I would be doing a full on limp saying "ow" under my breathe.

Looking at my feet so much made me think that they needed some polish!

Having a Miller Lite for Ryan Miller

I met up with some people to watch the USA vs Canada hockey game (such a good game!) and Dr LAM looked at my foot for me. He's assessment is that its a ligament or tendon issue and that I will probably have to do some PT. I have an appointment with my orthopedic (same guy who did the surgery on my ACL 2+ years ago) tomorrow at 9:45, so I guess the final verdict will be given. I'm not really sure what I am hoping him to tell me. Is there any "good" news that can come of this? Obviously I am hurt...but I just can't say "I hope its my tendons..." or whatever. I can't hope for an injury, but hoping that nothing is wrong is not realistic.

All I can do is try to remain optimistic. Its hard to do, but I almost always have a positive outlook on life. And while I am waiting for the optimism to kick in, I will be posting a ad on craigslist: "Wanted. New or Like New Legs. Must be able to run long distances and enjoy it. The faster the better. Must be "light on the feet." Ideally no history of injuries. Ideally female legs. All 10 toes is a BIG plus. Bad knees need not apply. "
I was super behind on reading everyone's blogs and then I found them very hard to read. Nothing to do with you guys - you are fabulous writers - its just hard to full engulf myself in everyone's running adventure when I know I can't have my own. :( I'll try to be better.

Ok, thats the last of the "poor me" you will hear from me. Just had to get out my "waaahhh." :D I'll keep you all posted on what develops in Ankle Watch 2010.

Sweet Nothings

2010-02-27T00:12:00.006-05:00

I have started and restarted this blog several times and I have to wonder why I am not inspired to write. The truth is that I haven't worked out since my fail run on Wednesday. No work out? What the hell do I talk about? So I will whisper short, sweet nothings into all of your ears on this snowy Friday.

Please light some candles and play soft music before continuing on.

On my way to work Thursday a car almost Tboned me when he did a Uturn into on coming traffic. I really can't believe he didn't hit me and that I didn't hit the lady who stepped into the road when I swerved. Almost had a heart attack.

For the first time in over 12 years my office officially closed today due to the snow storm. I live in city and all the public schools were closed, so you know it bad down here. I drive to work so hell no I wasn't going to drive up to Westchester. I am just happy I didn't have to use a personal day. It was like Christmas morning!

Picture courtesy of The Washington Post

USA WON IN HOCKEY! On to the Gold and Silver medal game vs Canada. OHHH its going to be a great game!!

My ankle has only gotten worse. Pain is now on the outside of my ankle. This morning, I would occasionally get shooting pains up my leg. Not running tomorrow. Its elevated. Been icing on and off. Took Advil. Now bring me some wine! :D

Not upset about not being able to run - it really sucks a lot though! I am more upset that I keep getting hurt. I don't get it! So annoying. :(

I ate like crap today - therefore I feel like crap. Tomorrow I will get back on track.

I've been thinking about doing a giveaway, although I have no idea what i would give away (Beer? Wine? KTtape? Foam Roller? Mayor Bloomberg? My ankle?)

My roommate was convince he could get into the same position as the curlers do when the throw the rock. He tried it. He fell. It was amazing.

Here's hoping my ankles get better soon!

Facing the Truth

2010-02-24T21:59:00.000-05:00

Its true, I am pretty hard-headed when it come to certain things. I will ignore the facts if I don't want them be true. Sometimes it goes my way. But as all of us runners know, sometimes its doesn't.
Injuries are things that we'd like to avoid. I try to do everything I am suppose to; Stretch, don't increase miles too quickly, ice, listen to your body, etc etc. For the most part, I am injury free. Sometimes my hamstring will be tight or my IT band will bother me but nothing that actually stopped me from running.
I never wrote about this because I never really thought too much off it. For the past couple of run on the treadmill have caused me some ankle pains. I would run and be fine and dandy but when I would stop - ow. Ow ow ow. Awkwardly I would start to run again and it would slowly go away.
I've had a lot of good runs lately so I guess today I was finally due for a bad one. Once I was running I started to feel my stomach tell me that it would appreciate it if I would stop. That changed into feeling like I swallowed a large pill and it was stuck in my throat. Was I going to throw up? Was I going to burp? Then the ankle pain started and over came me. I couldn't go on. I wanted to so badly...I had barley started to run. But I swallowed my pride and desire to have an awesome run, and slowed down to a walk. My 7 miler turned into 2 ish miles - most of which were walking. Sigh. Oh well. To make up for a craptastic run I did some weight machines - gimping from machine to machine. More than anything I was close to tears because of the pain, not because I couldn't run. I know I will be fine, it just hurt so freaking bad!!
The GOOD news is that after icing both ankles they aren't hurting all that much any more. Yeah! But that doesn't mean too much since every other time it wouldn't hurt after my run.
Once again...I LOTHE the treadmill!

Rainy Days

2010-02-23T21:16:00.002-05:00

Whats. With. The. Rain.
Seriously. Do I like rain? Sure why not. Would I run in rain? Absolutely - but only in late spring/summer/early fall. As much as it pains me to say, we are still in winter. Rain in the winter is cold and sleety and cold and yuke. If it was just one day, I would suck it up and be a big girl. I mean, its just rain. But when you add the fact that its 38 and windy with a mix of sleet and snow for the rest of the week.... No, you will find me in the gym.

ewwwww!!!!!

I started my 3 mile run at a 9:45ish pace and was not really having problems. But of course, I got bored - as I usually do on the treadmill - so after 1.5 miles I bumped up the speed and ran at an 8 minute mile pace for .75 miles. Crazy? Probably. After that I brought it back down to a 9 minute pace and found that 9 minute pace felt slow after running an 8 minute mile. I love when that happens :D I finished up my run and did an easy cool down.
Pretty uneventful run but it was nice to get back to the basics. Tomorrow I have a 7 miler and I would really really really prefer to do this outside but there are a few things that will prevent this from happening. 1. Rain 2. Robbing and a sexual assault have happen in my neighborhood at night/dark in the last couple weeks. Waking up early it is still dark. I get home at 7, its dark. I want to get some mace or hire the secert service to run with me...like the president has!
But I don't have either...7 on the treadmill...ugh.

Run to Run for Haiti

2010-02-20T16:07:00.007-05:00

I did it! 9 miles to the race and then raced the 4 mile race. 13 miles total baby! AND I PRed in the race for Haiti so go me! I took a bunch of video so the 9 miler will be illustrated via video! Enjoy.
First video - majorly early, trying to get warmed up. Sorry everything was so dark, but it was, well, dark outside!

This fun video was heading down a slippery slope!

I said I was near 90th, I was lying. It was closer to 110th. I couldn't think. It was cold. So sue me :D now you can see how shinny my face was. Vaseline to protect me from the wind!

I was so very happy to be at 79th street. Getting close to being done with run.

In the park! I made it!

I headed to the race start and tried to stay warm my walking around. Race took forever to start because there was 5623898467256 billion people running it. Seriously. And then we had to hear every person who ever lived in Haiti, had family in Haiti, vacationed in Haiti, named their daughter Haiti, could locate Haiti on a map speak. then we had to hear we are the world, Haitian national anthem, the slowest rendition of the Star Spangles Banner and we are the world one more time. By the time we actually began to move I couldn't feel my toes!
I kept a good pace and felt good running with everyone. So many people. When I got to mile 1 I saw I was running at a 10 minute mile. SWEEEET! Mile 2, still at a 10 minute mile. Mile 3, 10 minute mile. Holy crap! Could I PR?? What's weird is that I felt better running then I had earlier in the morning - which was at a slower pace. I only walked during the 3 water station, so once the thought of running the whole thing came into my head I kind of freaked out about it. I started to tell myself to walk and that I couldn't do it...but I pushed those thoughts aside and did it! I ran the whole thing :D A few feet from the finish line everything came to a dead stop. My official time was 40:47 but I think it was a little less that that, and I actually clocked 40 minutes so whatever. STILL amazing!!! So happy. Maybe I should run 9 miles before all my runs?
After the run I met up with my sister and we went to the twit up to see all my twitter peeps - and meet some new ones. I love it! You guys are awesome.

After a long day, what is the one thing a girl wants to do? ICE BATH!

It was heaven! I am feeling good about myself. What a great day to run!

Reflecting

2010-02-18T22:10:00.001-05:00

After yesterdays hella hard run, I planned for today's 3 miler to be nice and easy. I remembered underwear and running shoes today. Score one for Team Jocelyn!
I scored a treadmill that faced the window so I could see my reflection. I know its kind of weird but I can zone out better when I see myself. I study the way I run and my breathing which makes me run with less effort and more relaxed. It also reminded me to smile. Smiling really helps when running. I know sometimes I can looks super mad when I am in the Zone. Smile! Maybe I should always run with someone carrying a mirror in front of me? hmmm could help me relax more. I ran at a 10 minute pace and pretty much ran the entire time :D
Run went well although my right ankle seems to be a little weaker today and I really have no idea why. I have it wrapped right now with plans on icing later. Tomorrow is a rest day which is much needed! I have to do some laundry and then I have plans to go to sleep eaaarrrllly! My bed misses me! And I miss it.

Intervals

2010-02-17T22:25:00.005-05:00

I've felt like such a sluggy blob because I haven't run since Sunday. I know I know, it was 12 miles and it was cold, but still. I missed yesterdays 3 miler so I had to make a decision today: run 3 miles or today's planned 6 miles. I chose 6 mile intervals. :D
I changed at work and I realized I forgot 2 things. 1. A change in underwear...ok I'll wear my thong to run this 6 miler, not the most comfortable, but it will do (Hi mom and dad). And 2. My running shoes...Can I run in my FUggs? FAIL

I drove back to the city, swung by home, got my shoes, changed my underwear, tried to get my roommates to come to the gym with me and headed out to the gym.
But I made a big improvement since last week...I PLANNED my intervals:
Yes I am extremely anal when it come to writing this stuff out. Ha ha ha. I won't go through how many times I rewrote this.
It went ok. I really pushed myself, when I got to the 8:34 pace I just had to keep telling myself that I only had to do that for 2 minutes and 14 seconds. I did stop for a total of 2 minutes...not that bad - it was hella hard! I stretched for a long time after this, trying to keep my lower back loose. Not sure why its been bothering me so much after/during runs. Ideas?

I have decided to do the NYRR 4m Run for Haiti this Saturday. I wasn't sure if I was going to do it becuase I have a 13 miler to do that day. I know myself well enough to know that if I run a race I will not want to continue to run to make my miles for the day. So I thought to myself, self, why not run TO the race? My plan is to leave my house at 6am, run down the west side greenway and cut over to the start - a total of 9 miles, then I will run the 4 miles in the park. I think it will help to have a race to finish this long run. It should make me try a lot harder...or I will end up walking,...or weeping, hahaha. I hope not. I want to finish strong.

Oh yeah, and I now have 100 followers!? Wow....that really is amazing. I am sure only about 25 of you actually read/comment on my blog but THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU! for encouraging me and pushing me to keep going harder and father than I ever thought I could :D You guys are sexy!

Bitter

2010-02-14T20:57:00.009-05:00

No this is not a blog about hating Valentines day or a blog about my love with running - that's just a given. Instead it will be about the hot date I had with 12 miles and how much I am over winter.
My decision to run the NYC Greenway came about by a twitter twitup at 181th street to run down to City Bakery - a 14 miler. I am not as fast as everyone, nor did I have to go that far, so I mapped out a route down to City Bakery that would be 12 miles. I was delighted when my sister wanted to join me for the run! Yeaahhh! And my friend Michelle was going to meet us at 59th street to run the rest...yeahhh!!Question: Why do all you runners find it necessary to wake up so early in the winter to run. Fact: its warmer later in the day. Ugh, I don't get it! So the plan was to start at 8am so we could meet around 10:30. 8? 8am? on a SUNDAY!? Boooo. Jenna and I woke up and were texting about how we didn't want to be awake when I got an email from Michelle saying that she wouldn't be able to make it because her hamstring was still giving her a lot of problems :(. So Jenna and I pushed our run back to catch some extra Z's then she came over and we left my apartment around 9:30 for our run.
When I say it was cold, I mean it was cold and bitter and windy and freezing and WINDY! It was so hard to move, hard to run, hard not to stop and hard to enjoy.

1st 3 miles...hard. So cold and Jenna and I questioned our decision to run outside. Plus my lower calf/Achilles was killing me, yet again. By mile 3 I was hitting my strive, although I was freezing and not looking forward to continuing to run.

Mile 4 ducked away from the river for a little bit! YEAAAHHH! I think this was the warmest part of the whole run. No wind? Holla. Once we cut back over, the wind picked back up and was harsher than before. Its like it was mad at us for leaving the river. Biotch.
Not sure how many times Jenna and I said "f*ck mother nature!"
Cold Cold Cold Cold. Mile 7 cut away from the river again *yeah!* so we got a little relief. Although at this point my poor sisters hands were starting to get frost bite. I had 2 pairs of cheap 99¢ gloves on so I gave my sister one of the pairs. I wasn't even worried about my fingers, I just didn't want her to be miserable! :( It helped and we enjoyed running through the upper west side. "F*ck mother nature"
After mile 7 we opted to stay in the park away from the river a little longer then the greenway had us doing so we could stay away from the river a little more. Finally we ran through the boat basin - very cool - and back onto the Greenway. Since we walked most of mile 7 we decided to run a full mile with no stopping. It was harder than I thought it would be but thanks to Jenna I pushed through and I got done. It was pretty cool being this far down on the greenway. Uncharted territory!
By 34th street we found out that everyone had left City Bakery so we regrouped and decided to go to this other place near Union Square. As we were running I was so happy Jenna would set goals like "Lets run the rest of this mile. Come on we can do it." I would subconsciously pick up the pace...oops...and Jenna would slow me down. This was so good for me. I was in pain, if I was alone I would have walked - slloooowwwllly. But I worked hard and pushed myself more than I thought I could. I am so happy with my run :D I am in pain...but I am happy.

Jenna and I ate at Grey Dogs. So good and just what we needed. The bathroom had a hand drier so I leaned under it to try to warm up my body. Heaven. Thank you power heater! I love you. Next we walked up to Lululemon - I wanted to buy everything. But I wanted to try on some things before buying and I was gross - next time. Did you know they offer custom tailoring for FREE!! Amazing for short people like us. Next, we went to Paragon Sports where I picked up a running top and some energy things for my next long run (I had none for this run!!) and a headband and Jenna finally got a good pair of running gloves! Yeaaah.
After shopping we saw the movie Valentines Day. It was ok....very very predictable. Some parts were really funny.
My groin hurts, my butt hurts, my IT Band hurts, my ankles hurts, my shins hurt, my lower back hurts, my hips hurt and when I walk I feel about 30 years older than I am. Other than that I am floating on runners high.
If you have tomorrow off, enjoy it and use it with a nice easy reward run. Why not? Its a great day to run! I, on the other hand, will be a work. Why? Because I don't get the day off. Why? Because my work hates America. hahaha. Kidding. Happy Valentines Day.

What Was I Thinking?

2010-02-11T22:20:00.001-05:00

This was my car this morning. Not as bad as some people because I avoided having the plow bury it in a couple feet of snow, but still. I got a major upper body work out clearing off my car. That snow was heavy!

Since I missed my run yesterday I made up for it tonight - 6 miles on the treadmill. Ew. It was actually really nice out today, but with the 40 degree temperature came slush and dirty snow everywhere. No thank you, I will be running in the gym. To make thing interesting I decided to do intervals. See I think I blacked out right before deciding this. Or maybe I was suffering from a concussion? Something must have happened becuase I was convinced that intervals would be a good idea and a lot of fun.
They were not fun.
They were hard as hell and I really had to dig deep. I am still not really sure how I did this, but here is the break down:
1 mile 10 minute pace
1/2 mile 9:14
1 mile 10:00
1/2 mile 9:14
1 mile 10:00
1/2 mile 9:14
1/2 mile 10:00
1/2 mile 9:14
1/2 mile 10:00

I never walked but I did stop the treadmill a couple times - no time was more than 45 seconds. the first mile I did straight...then it just got harder to keep going. By mile 4.5 I wanted to quit, throw in the towel. By mile 5.5 I wanted to quit even more and never run again...ever. Some how I kept going and made it through the 6 mile interval training from hell. I will say this, it did get easier towards the end...although I think that was only becuase my legs went numb and I started to get a bit of a runners high.So how does one reward herself after a tough work out? Beer and ice cream of course :D

Its a Snowy One

2010-02-10T18:39:00.000-05:00

Yeah for snow days!! Well not officially for me...I had to call out. Damn work place. No way I was going to drive in this!
No run today...gym is closed and things keep getting worse outside so I opted to just nap. I guess I was still tired because I slept for 3 hours. :D
It started snowing around 5am and really wasn't that bad. It started as wet snow but then changed to the big fluffy kind. I made a snow angel which was going to be video taped but my roommate didn't press the button on my camera. Oh well..it was cute. :D
Some pictures of the day:

From my window 9:00am

Getting ready to go outside

Not that bad in the AM

Playing in the snow

Inwood Park

It was the cold and wet. Very windy

Outside my window at 4:00pm. More snow

And here is a video of Mochi playing in the snow :D

Back in the Game

2010-02-09T21:12:00.002-05:00

As predicted this week has been rough thus far. Yesterday morning I got yelled and snapped at for no real reason...people were crabby! I some how made it though and have completed several Super Bowl products.
With being on the DL most of last week and having a crazy Sunday night/Monday morning, I was relieved when Tuesday morning rolled around. Tuesday Morning = Run with Anna. Something I can almost always count on. It was suppose to be 23 this morning so Anna and I both dressed up like Ninjas! I left the house with only my eyes showing. I met Anna and she had her eyes showing too. Oh yeah, two ninjas here for the fight. It actually was warmer than we thought so layers were removed. Less stealthy, but still. I think we are going to go around protecting the neighborhood with our katanas and throwing stars. hehehe.
We ran for 3 miles and a nice and easy pace. It was so nice being out in the fresh morning air! I'm so glad I am off the DL! Really sucks to be side lined. After the we went our separate ways I actually tacked on a little more to run. Why? I was feeling really good! 5 miler tomorrow :D

Monday I received my prize that I would from Texas Couture...PIRATES BOOTY! I didn't know it was going to come in this amazing case! I was so excited! Yarrrh
Sundays party was a success! I had a lot of fun, ate way to much AND won 25 bucks in a pool! Wooo. Here are some pictures:

One of the tables with food. We also had Pizza and wings!

1 of the 2 trays of Jello shots

Living room flowed into the hall.

Me with my 25 bucks!

Also, tomorrow we are suppose to have tons of snow! Like a lot. I don't know if I believe it though...when I have be lied to before. All NY schools have been closed...works have been closed, things have been canceled. And what does MY work tell us via email? This:
"Unless it’s much worse than predicted we will likely be open tomorrow"
Whaaat. This is what the warning is on weather.com:

SNOW DEVELOPS LATE THIS EVENING... WITH ACCUMULATIONS OF 2 TO 4 INCHES POSSIBLE BY DAYBREAK. THE SNOW MAY MIX WITH SLEET WEDNESDAY MORNING... BUT WILL OTHERWISE BE HEAVY AT TIMES DURING THE DAY ON WEDNESDAY... WITH SNOWFALL RATES OF 1 TO 2 INCHES PER HOUR POSSIBLE. BY THE TIME SNOW ENDS WEDNESDAY NIGHT... TOTAL ACCUMULATIONS OF 10 TO 16 INCHES ARE EXPECTED.

AS THE STORM INTENSIFIES... NORTHEAST WINDS WILL BECOME STRONG AND GUSTY DURING THE DAY ON WEDNESDAY... THEN TURN NORTH WEDNESDAY NIGHT. GUSTS OF 35 TO 40 MPH WILL CAUSE BLOWING AND DRIFTING OF SNOW... WITH NEAR BLIZZARD CONDITIONS AT TIMES ALONG WITH POSSIBLE POWER OUTAGES.

How much worse could it get? So if I wake up tomorrow and it looks bad, I will be calling out. No way am I going to drive from NYC up to Westchester in this crap. It would be fun to run in though...hehehe.

Snow? What Snow?

2010-02-06T20:50:00.003-05:00

It's ok, you can be honest with me. I look like I am falling apart. Knee brace and KTtape for both shin splints...I look like I really shouldn't be running...ever. I always get looks at my gym when I have one of my three knee braces on, but now I added a new element that people aren't so familiar with. oh yeah, I got some stares.
NYC was suppose to get hit hard with the storm of the century or whatever. Tons of snow. Even though I had plans to run inside, the idea of running in snow made me kind of giddy. So you can imagine my disappointment when I looked out my window and saw NO snow. yup, we got a whopping zero inches of snow. So I bundled up and headed to the gym.

Do you remember Power Rangers the tv show in the 90s? I had forgotten all about this classic until it was on one of the gym TVs. Wow those graphics were so bad. Who choreographed those fight scenes? I guess is was a kids show and it was in the 90s so I need to cut it some slack. But I could tell that one of the girls stunt double in the power ranger suit was totally a guy. poor yellow power ranger. Here's a gem for you all to enjoy! GO GO POWER RANGERS!

Anyways, I started off at a 10 minute pace, feeling good. I haven't really run this week due to my Achilles/calf pain so it was a little tough finding my rhythm. But I did finally hit my stride around mile 3. Then I was just cruising. I timed my run on my watch so I could include every time I stopped to drink water - I can't drink and run - and all of my walking breaks. I wanted to get a feel for what my actual time was when I was done. I tried to talk myself out of walking. I would make myself run a mile before I was allowed to stop and drink water or walk. HARD.
The last mile I focused and told myself I would kick ass on the last 10 minutes. The last .20 miles I kicked it up to a 9 minute mile pace and even though I thought I was going to die, I finished strong and completed my 7 miles in roughly 1:17 - 11:00 minute pace. Woot.

Wings marinating

My veggie platter

Tonight I prepped for our Super Bowl party. I made a veggie platter and pigs in a blanket - just need to be popped in the oven. Tomorrow I will make my 7 layer dip! yummy. I made the pigs in a blanket with turkey hot dogs and my roommate went "TURKEY hotdogs? Really Jocelyn, does everything have to be so healthy!?" Hahahah. No, of course not but I know it would be nice for people like me who want some sort of healthiness to balance out the wings, pizza and beer. We have so much food! My roommate is also making 2 other types of dips, cookies something else and of course, jello shots. Hope you all enjoy the game and good food. No counting calories or worrying. Just having fun and enjoying the night! :D

The Calm Before the Storm

2010-02-05T11:25:00.008-05:00

I'm going a little stir crazy. Cabin feverish even. I didn't run yesterday because a. no way I was waking up to go running after Wednesday nights work out and b. There was no hot water yesterday (due to emergency boiler repair) so I would have been sweaty all day. ew. I went out last night so no workout there and I didn't even attempt to wake up and run this morning. I guess its good to have these extra rest days for my leg...but I am missing the feeling of the pavement as I glide across the streets.
This weekend I have a 7 miler planned and of course its suppose to snow 1-12 inches (it changes every hour what they are predicting so I'm going with that) starting sometime tonight. Thus meaning I will most likely be taking my run to the treadmill. UGH! Why can't it be spring!? I would run outside but I have about 2 weeks of laundry to do which includes all my outdoor winter running gear. I could always just buy more...
I am also almost done reading Born to Run. I am at the part where they are talking about how we are actually physically made to run long distances for long periods of time at a steady pace. So interesting. All these comparisons to animals. Did you know we take longer strides then horse? Me neither! One of my favorite quotes in the book is "If you don't have the answers to your problem after a four-hour run, you ain't getting them." So true!

Next week is going to be crazy! The Super Bowl is Sunday which means Monday will be a mad house at my work. People will be running around like chickens with their heads cut off. I work in sports (mostly photographic work) and most everyone who works here has been working here for several years. You'd think we'd have this down by now...we don't. But I loooovvvveee football so I can't wait! My roommates and I are throwing a super bowl party this year! I am so excited. I'm making some "healthy" things to serve...don't tell them that though :) If you are in the NYC area, feel free to drop by and say hello. (shouldn't they have has LMAO do the 1/2 time show? I'm in Miami Bitch).

Another thing I wanted to write about today is my friend Lydia. She was the one who had the crazy idea of running a marathon back in October 08. The one who suggested it to Shannon and myself. The one who got me running and in the end, the reason I was able to fall in love with it. I have never really thanked her for suggesting we run one (I think I told her she was crazy and probably laughed in her face), but THANK YOU Lydia!! You have no idea what running has done for me!
Sadly, Lydia moved back home to San Fran after college in '07 and now lives in Oregon where she is in grad school for Architecture and Sustainable Design. We lived together senior year of college and I miss having her a few feet away! Boo come back to the east coast!
She has aspirations of one day doing an Ironman (I'll still call you crazy for this one :D) and has done a few sprint tris before. We ran our first marathon together last year in San Diego and it was so much fun! Now we are sort of kind of running our second one together. I am running New Jersey on May 2nd and she will be running Eugene on May 2nd. Marathon running together in spirit! hehehe.
Lydia has decided to run the Eugene Marathon with Team in Training, which I think is amazing. I have thought about doing Team in Training as well, but she went ahead and did it. She blogged last year about her journey and I THINK she will start blogging again here. Anyways, if you can donate any amount that would be awesome of you!

http://pages.teamintraining.org/or/eugene10/lchambekwm

In the Raw

2010-02-03T21:40:00.002-05:00

Well, I went 100% raw today. Not planned. After yesterdays fiasco with with all the crap I ate, I decided to stop at the grocery store on the way to the work. I picked up a lot fruit and was ready to rock breakfast. After some mixed fruit I had an orange for a snack. Then I started to crave an apple, then carrots. Before I knew it, noon rolled around and all I wanted was some avocado. Could I do this? Could I go raw for the day? I planned my lunch around avocados and added some raw cashews, flaxseeds and cucumbers. Actually very satisfying. Now dinner was the hard part. I had these ideas of cooking green beans and broccoli...but the problem was I wanted them COOKED. Hmmm. what could I eat!? I decided I would have salad with celery, mandarin oranges, carrots and cucumbers. Yummy. I can't believe I did it! It really would have been easier if I planned this out. My friend Michelle had done the raw food thing before so I asked her for some recipes. She hooked me up :D. Maybe next week I'll go all week raw? Or at the very least, I would love to have one meal a day be raw.
Today was also the day I wanted to test out my Achilles/calf. I went to the gym and started out at an 11 minute mile speed. It was a little awkward but no pain. I played around with the speed. I went up to 10 minute mile down to a walking 17 minute mile. It's weird, calf is fine, but when I slowed down my SHIN SPLINTS, ankles, back and my hip hurt. Whaat. Maybe the raw food? I ran/walked for 42 minutes then did 1:30 minute plank, a 1:00 minute plank and finally a :30 second plank. Before you know it I will have a "situation" going on....hahaha. Jersey shore? anyone?I didn't run as fast or as long as I wanted to, but it was good not to over work it, so I am ok with my workout tonight :D

No Running

2010-02-02T21:56:00.003-05:00

Oh that was hard. I went to the gym and didn't even touch a treadmill. WEIRD! This has to be one of the first times that has happen! My Achilles/calf started to feel so much better by the end of the day, so naturally I started thinking that maybe, just maybe I could do a little joggy-poo tonight...
But...I am smarter than my myself sometimes. This morning when I packed my gym bag I put in my crappy sports bra that really does nothing support wise, making it impossible for me to run. Touche Jocelyn, touche! I know myself better than I think sometimes.
So no running...yet. I did 30 minutes on the elliptical in hill mode; Around the World (ooOOOoo). I went with my roommate, Chris. We were next to each other on the elliptical so it was was fun! This was also the first time I've been to my gym with someone. Crazy right? But I enjoyed it! After we rocked the elliptical, I got him to do some upper body workouts with me. We did a couple reps in the weight machines while we chatted. My other roommate had class so I hope that another time all three of us will get to go to the gym together soon. Oh and my roommates asked me if I wanted to renew our lease for another year instead of ending it in April because they really like living with me. YEAH!!! I get to be here another year! :D I love my awesome roommates! Tomorrow I am gong to try to get a run tomorrow. Pretty much planning to run slowly and if there is no pain I will kick it up a little bit. If there is pain I will walk some. Yuk this plan sucks in my mind, but hey I KNOW that this is the best plan for me. Sigh.Also, all of your food blog have inspired me. I really want to try to go processed food-less for a week (maybe starting Monday?). After today, I really need this change. I was so hungry and I had no good food at work. So I turned to the crap I did have; pretzels and protein bars. I normally have fruit in my office but of course, I am out. My FAVORITE fruit is apples. It is not apple season so my grocery store has been sucking with there selection. I need to get over the apples and go to the other fruits I love. So thank you to all of you who have written about food lately. I need to kick my butt into gear!

Happy groundhogs day. Punxsutawney Phil, the groundhog in PA, saw his shadow. Chuck, the Staten Island groundhog did not see his shadow. There for; I'm with Chuck.

Waaahhh

2010-02-01T21:30:00.000-05:00

Jocelyn is mad.
So my right calf has been so tight for the past week. I just assumed it was muscle tightness. BUT after serveral days of pain, trouble running, a long deep tissue massage (so nice btw) and trouble walking this morning, I finally started to face the facts: Something could be wrong with me.
I did some online research and it could either be Achilles tendinitis or a strain. Either way I need to take an extra rest day. So I will not be running tomorrow. Icing? yes. Running? no. Not until I start to feel better, then I will try to go for a slow jog and go from there. sigh
I must say that this is killing me. All through my soccer career I played through shin splints, blisters and a pulled groin. If I could play through it, I would. I FEEL like I could run though this. I know it could lead to bad things if I do. Ahhh! I am beyond frustrated. This just better heal quickly.
I want to keep my fitness up so I will be going to the gym tomorrow to run..wow, that was just came out. Habit. I will NOT running. I am going to the gym tomorrow to bike ride and weight life. I can't just sit still! I'd go crazy!
Fingers cross I get better soon!