Ran through Queenstown, New Zealand, with my Sweetie! We took the bus down the big hill from the hotel and then ran through town along the lakefront, through the public gardens, and along the Frankton trail. When we hit 35 minutes we turned and headed back.
The run was supposed to be an hour at a slow-ish pace. That's what we did. A lot of the run was on trails and not pavement, so that made for a nice change. At the end I wanted to sprint the last few hundred feet. We hit speeds of 6:24! Woo hoo!!
Here's the breakdown:
Lap pace
1 10:25
2 11:10
3 10:57
5 10:55
6 10:07 (0.72mi for 7:14)
Totals were 5.72 miles in 1:01:47 at an average 10:49 pace. Nice! I like the negative splits!
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Hill work again
Thought this was such a fun run, I had to do it again with my favorite running partner! He pushed me to run faster than usual though. I guess all his high altitude training makes it impossible for him to run slow!
Lap 1 to Baldwin Street, 1.63mi, 16:51, 10:21 pace
Lap 2 up Baldwin Street, 0.12mi, 3:27, 28:13 pace
Lap 3 down Baldwin Street, 0.18mi, 4:29, 25:36 pace
Lap 4 back to the Inn, 1.57, 15:43, 10:02 pace
We didn't start the laps at the same location. We sprinted the last three blocks, clocking an 8:00 pace! Actually, the best pace was 7:16! Great run, AWESOME to run it with Bill!
Lap 1 to Baldwin Street, 1.63mi, 16:51, 10:21 pace
Lap 2 up Baldwin Street, 0.12mi, 3:27, 28:13 pace
Lap 3 down Baldwin Street, 0.18mi, 4:29, 25:36 pace
Lap 4 back to the Inn, 1.57, 15:43, 10:02 pace
We didn't start the laps at the same location. We sprinted the last three blocks, clocking an 8:00 pace! Actually, the best pace was 7:16! Great run, AWESOME to run it with Bill!
Wildlife
Bill got here! Yay! After months of waiting, the day finally arrived! I met him at the airport. We came back to the Inn.
The next morning we got up and had a yummy breakfast. Then we walked around the Octagon area and found him some good running shoes. We had a great lunch at the Irish pub, The Bog. The food was good and the beer cold (and tasty). From there we headed back to the Inn to get ready for our big wildlife tour.
The van picked us up (and then got another dozen or so people) and we headed out to Otago Peninsula. Our first stop was the Royal Albatross Center. We took a tour of the facility and spent some time in the observatory watching a few Albatross fly around. We also got to see a few chicks and a parent feeding a chick. That was pretty neat.
From there we drove to a private preserve and went to see the fur seals.
From there we went to see the sea lions, but first we passed a blue penguin nest with two chicks in it.
The sea lions were playing, but it was at times a bit frightening, as I thought they were going to come after us!
We wrapped up our adventure with a chance to see the yellow eyed penguin.
It was a fantastic trip and we got to see a lot. The photos don't do it justice, but the scenery was stunning!
The next morning we got up and had a yummy breakfast. Then we walked around the Octagon area and found him some good running shoes. We had a great lunch at the Irish pub, The Bog. The food was good and the beer cold (and tasty). From there we headed back to the Inn to get ready for our big wildlife tour.
The van picked us up (and then got another dozen or so people) and we headed out to Otago Peninsula. Our first stop was the Royal Albatross Center. We took a tour of the facility and spent some time in the observatory watching a few Albatross fly around. We also got to see a few chicks and a parent feeding a chick. That was pretty neat.
From there we drove to a private preserve and went to see the fur seals.
From there we went to see the sea lions, but first we passed a blue penguin nest with two chicks in it.
The sea lions were playing, but it was at times a bit frightening, as I thought they were going to come after us!
We wrapped up our adventure with a chance to see the yellow eyed penguin.
It was a fantastic trip and we got to see a lot. The photos don't do it justice, but the scenery was stunning!
Friday, March 18, 2011
Chocolate ...
Good thing I ran this morning. Instead of watching the minutes until I go to the airport to get Bill tick by, I decided that I needed to do something today. On my list were the Speight's Brewery and the Cadbury Chocolate Factory. I figured of the two Bill would want a beer, so I went to Cadbury's. Mmmmmm, chocolate! At the start of the tour we were given a little bag with a few samples in it. Along the tour our guide gave us samples for answering questions correctly and really just for being there. At the end was the retail store. I was pretty good and didn't eat too much. I bought a few things at the store, but I felt I was better than most.
Following that I headed to the veg restaurant to have another of those fabulous mushroom burgers. Nope. They were out. Bummer. So I proceeded back to the Inn, but stopped at the Good Oil. It got a mention in more than one of the guidebooks, and it was packed, so I figured it would be good. I ordered the spinach, mushroom, and brie on ciabbata bread and a beer. The sandwich was $13, so I figured a $20 should cover it. Nope. $25 was the total. Sheesh! A $12 beer? It had better be good! It was an Emerson's Pilsner. Not bad, but I'm afraid I don't consider it worth $12. Oh well. I'm on holiday. It's OK to splurge. The sandwich was excellent.
In three hours I will be on the road to the airport to meet my soulmate. He should be landing in Christchurch soon. I am so looking forward to it!!
Following that I headed to the veg restaurant to have another of those fabulous mushroom burgers. Nope. They were out. Bummer. So I proceeded back to the Inn, but stopped at the Good Oil. It got a mention in more than one of the guidebooks, and it was packed, so I figured it would be good. I ordered the spinach, mushroom, and brie on ciabbata bread and a beer. The sandwich was $13, so I figured a $20 should cover it. Nope. $25 was the total. Sheesh! A $12 beer? It had better be good! It was an Emerson's Pilsner. Not bad, but I'm afraid I don't consider it worth $12. Oh well. I'm on holiday. It's OK to splurge. The sandwich was excellent.
In three hours I will be on the road to the airport to meet my soulmate. He should be landing in Christchurch soon. I am so looking forward to it!!
Some serious hill work
What a beautiful day for a run! I thought it might not be with all the rain we had last night, but it was wonderful. A little on the chilly side, but I brought gloves and earwarmers. Yet I went out in my skirt.
The first part of today's workout I ran 1.65 miles in 17:17 for an average pace of 10:27. I was going to the gardens but changed my mind. I ran to Baldwin Street instead.
For the second part of the workout I walked up Baldwin Street. That sounds off until you find out that Baldwin street is the "steepest street" in the world. It has a gradient of 1:2.86. That is 35%! The sidewalks were STAIRS! When I got to the top I thought I was looking down a roller coaster! It took 9:06 to go 0.23 miles. What is interesting is that the horizontal distance covered was a little over 600 feet and the vertical distance was just shy of 200 feet. WOW!
Then I ran back to the hotel, 1.65 miles in 18:00 for an average pace of 10:53. What a fun workout!
The first part of today's workout I ran 1.65 miles in 17:17 for an average pace of 10:27. I was going to the gardens but changed my mind. I ran to Baldwin Street instead.
For the second part of the workout I walked up Baldwin Street. That sounds off until you find out that Baldwin street is the "steepest street" in the world. It has a gradient of 1:2.86. That is 35%! The sidewalks were STAIRS! When I got to the top I thought I was looking down a roller coaster! It took 9:06 to go 0.23 miles. What is interesting is that the horizontal distance covered was a little over 600 feet and the vertical distance was just shy of 200 feet. WOW!
Then I ran back to the hotel, 1.65 miles in 18:00 for an average pace of 10:53. What a fun workout!
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Day Two
Things are falling into place. I had a great breakfast this morning. Homemade yogurt with granola, fresh homemade bread with cheese and a slice with vegemite, a cranberry muffin, some STRONG coffee, and some juice. It was a great way to start the day. Well, the run was a great way to start the day. breakfast kept a good thing going.
Then I got the message from Bill. He's on the way, which is AWESOME! He's staying longer than I am. Hmm. Time to make some changes! I spent several hours online trying to adjust the tickets. Everything has been changed, so we are good to go! Yes, there were change fees, but I believe the extra time with him is worth it. I need to check the travel insurance policy, but there is a provision in there on making changes to a trip due to a servicemember's deployment. I don't know if this will fall under that, but since I am making a claim anyway (for the delay in luggage), it is worth trying.
While I was working on that I Skyped with Regina and then with Mom and Dad. I am concerned because I am now returning after Regina leaves. I am bummed I won't see her again. I found a little something on my walk today that I thought she would like. I guess I'll have to mail it to her. I think we're going to have to board the dogs for a few days. It is a bummer, but if that is what we have to do, so be it. And now that I think of it, I don't think I bought the level of insurance that covers that, assuming that Regina would be there, so I guess we'll be out of pocket on that.
So after all this, I went out. I hit a knit shop Glynis told me about, the veg restaurant, the shop I found this morning, and the iSite place - a service of the government that can book you on tours. While there I found a brochure for yet another knit shop, so I went there. Then I hit the grocery store and came back. My luggage was waiting for me!
The lunch was fabulous! I ran into the two sisters who are staying here and they invited me to join them, which was really nice. I got the mushroom burger, but without the side salads it came with, as there were peppers in both. The burger was AWESOME! On top of the portobello were beets! and lettuce, and hummus! What a fantastic combo! YUMMY!
The knit shops were HORRIBLE!! No service, I wasn't greeted, and they didn't have much in the way of yarn. Can you believe that?! I wanted worsted weight NZ merino wool. Nope. They had regular wool, but no merino. The only merino they had (and this is all three shops) was in fingering weight. Come on! There are 10 sheep to every person in this country and there's no worsted weight merino? Patons brand was big in all three shops. It's Canadian, and it is dominant at Michael's and Joann, so I think of it as cheap stuff. I am quite disappointed. What I think I will do, if Bill is amenable, is when we are in Queenstown and doing our wine tour, I want to stop in Alexandra (I think), which is the home of Touch Yarns, NZ's main brand. Maybe I can find what I want there. I was quite surprised by the shops, and not in a good way.
Well, I'm off to drink some wine.
Then I got the message from Bill. He's on the way, which is AWESOME! He's staying longer than I am. Hmm. Time to make some changes! I spent several hours online trying to adjust the tickets. Everything has been changed, so we are good to go! Yes, there were change fees, but I believe the extra time with him is worth it. I need to check the travel insurance policy, but there is a provision in there on making changes to a trip due to a servicemember's deployment. I don't know if this will fall under that, but since I am making a claim anyway (for the delay in luggage), it is worth trying.
While I was working on that I Skyped with Regina and then with Mom and Dad. I am concerned because I am now returning after Regina leaves. I am bummed I won't see her again. I found a little something on my walk today that I thought she would like. I guess I'll have to mail it to her. I think we're going to have to board the dogs for a few days. It is a bummer, but if that is what we have to do, so be it. And now that I think of it, I don't think I bought the level of insurance that covers that, assuming that Regina would be there, so I guess we'll be out of pocket on that.
So after all this, I went out. I hit a knit shop Glynis told me about, the veg restaurant, the shop I found this morning, and the iSite place - a service of the government that can book you on tours. While there I found a brochure for yet another knit shop, so I went there. Then I hit the grocery store and came back. My luggage was waiting for me!
The lunch was fabulous! I ran into the two sisters who are staying here and they invited me to join them, which was really nice. I got the mushroom burger, but without the side salads it came with, as there were peppers in both. The burger was AWESOME! On top of the portobello were beets! and lettuce, and hummus! What a fantastic combo! YUMMY!
The knit shops were HORRIBLE!! No service, I wasn't greeted, and they didn't have much in the way of yarn. Can you believe that?! I wanted worsted weight NZ merino wool. Nope. They had regular wool, but no merino. The only merino they had (and this is all three shops) was in fingering weight. Come on! There are 10 sheep to every person in this country and there's no worsted weight merino? Patons brand was big in all three shops. It's Canadian, and it is dominant at Michael's and Joann, so I think of it as cheap stuff. I am quite disappointed. What I think I will do, if Bill is amenable, is when we are in Queenstown and doing our wine tour, I want to stop in Alexandra (I think), which is the home of Touch Yarns, NZ's main brand. Maybe I can find what I want there. I was quite surprised by the shops, and not in a good way.
Well, I'm off to drink some wine.
Run!
I ran today for the first time in a while. The weather was beautiful. I ran down George Street, around the Octagon, found a knit shop and a veg restaurant, back up George Street, around to the Botanical Gardens, and back to the hotel.
This was supposed to be a 20 minutes easy, 20 minutes steady (between easy and hard), but I kind of shot out the door fast and it was downhill. The fast part of the run was uphill. I should have planned that better.
Anyway, I did 3.73 miles in 39:51, for an average pace of 10:41. It was AWESOME to run!
This was supposed to be a 20 minutes easy, 20 minutes steady (between easy and hard), but I kind of shot out the door fast and it was downhill. The fast part of the run was uphill. I should have planned that better.
Anyway, I did 3.73 miles in 39:51, for an average pace of 10:41. It was AWESOME to run!
First real day of vacation
So here I am! I have arrived in Dunedin after much hassle. I get to the Inn and the room is not ready (which is fine, since it is only 8am). Glynis tells me I can leave my bags there and go out if I'd like. She brings me a piping hot blueberry muffin that is delicious. I decide to just stay in the living room. After not too long my room is ready. I go up and have a debate on whether I should shower and sleep or go out. I decide to go out. I walked down to the Octagon and back, looking for a place to buy a sweater. I see several sweaters that I'd like, but I prefer the $259 instead. I finally spot a KMart, of all places, and go in there. The sizing is definitely different, but I got what I needed. That should hold me until the bags get here. I will be reimbursed for the clothes when I file a claim with the travel insurance. Then I went off in search of lunch.
I went to Crepes, which is famous for its pancakes. I got something else, though, figuring maybe Bill and I will go for pancakes one day. It was OK. Nothing remarkable. I continued back to the Inn and stopped to pick up some water and wine. I also got a yogurt for dinner. I thought about walking back out, but I wasn't sure about the area at night and being alone. I also thought about ordering pizza in, but it was Pizza Hut (although the spinach and feta pizza sounded really good) and I didn't want to spend a lot to get a little.
I spent some time in the living room this afternoon after a wonderful shower and some time lyin gin bed (no sleep though). Glynis offered to do a load of laundry for me so I would have something clean to wear. I greatly appreciate that. I spent the afternoon in my PJs, lounging around and chatting with the other guests. The laundry finished and I put on the sweater I bought. It is quite chilly here. I really want to get my bags and put on my jacket. It was neat to talk to the other guests. I like the B&B atmosphere.
I went to Crepes, which is famous for its pancakes. I got something else, though, figuring maybe Bill and I will go for pancakes one day. It was OK. Nothing remarkable. I continued back to the Inn and stopped to pick up some water and wine. I also got a yogurt for dinner. I thought about walking back out, but I wasn't sure about the area at night and being alone. I also thought about ordering pizza in, but it was Pizza Hut (although the spinach and feta pizza sounded really good) and I didn't want to spend a lot to get a little.
I spent some time in the living room this afternoon after a wonderful shower and some time lyin gin bed (no sleep though). Glynis offered to do a load of laundry for me so I would have something clean to wear. I greatly appreciate that. I spent the afternoon in my PJs, lounging around and chatting with the other guests. The laundry finished and I put on the sweater I bought. It is quite chilly here. I really want to get my bags and put on my jacket. It was neat to talk to the other guests. I like the B&B atmosphere.
Let the journey begin
I've been writing the blog as I travel, but I now have internet access so I can post. I'm not sure how much of the snafu with the plane ticket got posted here, but to summarize, I spent a total of 8.5 hours on hold with Orbitz (which only plays Pachelbel's Canon) for hold music) because my trip had suddenly gone from PNS to CHC via Memphis, LA, and Brisbane to PNS to LAX by way of Memphis, LA, and Brisbane. Huh? yeah, that's what I said. Anyway, It was all straightened out by Supervisor Danny.
So I finally got things straightened out with Orbitz and went to the Pensacola airport Monday afternoon. I was in line foe a while waiting to check in. When I got to the counter, the agent informed me that I needed a visa to enter Australia. What? My original flight's layover in Brisbane was only two and a half hours, so no visa was required. When the new flight gave me a 12 hour layover, that triggered the requirement (more than 8 hours).
He had me call V Australia and the very helpful agent talked me through the process of applying online. I had my laptop with me and thankfully PNS had free wi-fi. Once I had the confirmation number, the agent at the counter finished checking me and my bags in. I had just enough time to make my flight.
I made it to Memphis and LA without any issues. I got on the flight to Brisbane with no issues. The flight was great, and I think V Australia is a great airline. Their inflight entertainment had around 35 movies in it as well as many TV shows, CDs, and games. I watched The Social Network and Unstoppable. I also knit. I think my gauge is off on the gloves, so I've set them aside for now.
When we landed in Brisbane I proceeded to immigration. I asked about whether I'd be able to get out of the airport for the day and was told that I could. I didn't have to pull my bags off the carousel as they were checked all the way to Christchurch. I just had to go through with my carryons. No problem.
After customs I headed out into the day. I purchased a train ticket to get downtown and also rented a locker for my bag. I got on the train and went to South Brisbane. I walked along the riverwalk and stopped and had lunch at a cafe. There were several sections still closed off due to flood damage, but it was a beautiful walk. Then I went to the museum to see the dinosaur exhibit that was advertised in the train brochure. That didn't happen because the exhibit was in the museum basement and suffered damage in the floods. I did walk around for a while and looked at some of the other exhibits.
Then I got back on the train and went back to the City Center. I walked to the Queen Street mall and found a Starbucks. The wi-fi wasn't free, but it was reasonably priced ($3/hr). Unfortunately my battery was low, so I only got about 15 minutes. Supposedly I have a credit and if we find ourselves somewhere with that kind of hotspot I'll try it again. I had a nice conversation with two gentlemen that were in there. Then I left and headed to the Botanical Gardens. What a beautiful place! The smells were great, it was green, and it was neat to see tall city buildings poking up behind the trees. After I walked around it, I found a place to sit for a while and just watch. I saw dozens of joggers and cyclists. I wanted to grab my stuff and run. The weather was gorgeous.
Following that I meandered back to the train and back to the airport. I retrieved my baggage and headed to the terminal. Security and customs were smooth. Our flight was delayed an hour, but that wasn't bad. It was an uneventful flight, though a little bumpy at the end. We landed and went through immigration. Then I went to retrieve my bags and go through customs. Great idea, only ... my bags weren't there! Great. Everything was in those bags. Everything for me and for Bill. I have toiletries, a change of clothes, and some running gear, but no jacket, no additional clothing, no nothing. I am going to think positively. They will be found and they will be delivered to me in Dunedin. The B&B has laundry, so if I need to, I can wash these clothes. They need a wash anyway. I can buy anything else I need I'm sure.
The airport here has 30 free minutes of wi-fi. Unfortunately the system kicked me off after about 10 minutes. Now I can't login again for another hour or so. At that point I want to be in my gate getting ready to board my last outbound flight.
So now I'm in debate whether I should get some coffee and stay awake or sleep on the plane. I got hardly any sleep last night. I'm afraid that I'll want to sleep when I get there and that will throw off my system. I have no idea when Bill is showing up. I haven't gotten an email with his itinerary. I'm sure it is coming, I just hope I have internet access to get it.
So I finally got things straightened out with Orbitz and went to the Pensacola airport Monday afternoon. I was in line foe a while waiting to check in. When I got to the counter, the agent informed me that I needed a visa to enter Australia. What? My original flight's layover in Brisbane was only two and a half hours, so no visa was required. When the new flight gave me a 12 hour layover, that triggered the requirement (more than 8 hours).
He had me call V Australia and the very helpful agent talked me through the process of applying online. I had my laptop with me and thankfully PNS had free wi-fi. Once I had the confirmation number, the agent at the counter finished checking me and my bags in. I had just enough time to make my flight.
I made it to Memphis and LA without any issues. I got on the flight to Brisbane with no issues. The flight was great, and I think V Australia is a great airline. Their inflight entertainment had around 35 movies in it as well as many TV shows, CDs, and games. I watched The Social Network and Unstoppable. I also knit. I think my gauge is off on the gloves, so I've set them aside for now.
When we landed in Brisbane I proceeded to immigration. I asked about whether I'd be able to get out of the airport for the day and was told that I could. I didn't have to pull my bags off the carousel as they were checked all the way to Christchurch. I just had to go through with my carryons. No problem.
After customs I headed out into the day. I purchased a train ticket to get downtown and also rented a locker for my bag. I got on the train and went to South Brisbane. I walked along the riverwalk and stopped and had lunch at a cafe. There were several sections still closed off due to flood damage, but it was a beautiful walk. Then I went to the museum to see the dinosaur exhibit that was advertised in the train brochure. That didn't happen because the exhibit was in the museum basement and suffered damage in the floods. I did walk around for a while and looked at some of the other exhibits.
Then I got back on the train and went back to the City Center. I walked to the Queen Street mall and found a Starbucks. The wi-fi wasn't free, but it was reasonably priced ($3/hr). Unfortunately my battery was low, so I only got about 15 minutes. Supposedly I have a credit and if we find ourselves somewhere with that kind of hotspot I'll try it again. I had a nice conversation with two gentlemen that were in there. Then I left and headed to the Botanical Gardens. What a beautiful place! The smells were great, it was green, and it was neat to see tall city buildings poking up behind the trees. After I walked around it, I found a place to sit for a while and just watch. I saw dozens of joggers and cyclists. I wanted to grab my stuff and run. The weather was gorgeous.
Following that I meandered back to the train and back to the airport. I retrieved my baggage and headed to the terminal. Security and customs were smooth. Our flight was delayed an hour, but that wasn't bad. It was an uneventful flight, though a little bumpy at the end. We landed and went through immigration. Then I went to retrieve my bags and go through customs. Great idea, only ... my bags weren't there! Great. Everything was in those bags. Everything for me and for Bill. I have toiletries, a change of clothes, and some running gear, but no jacket, no additional clothing, no nothing. I am going to think positively. They will be found and they will be delivered to me in Dunedin. The B&B has laundry, so if I need to, I can wash these clothes. They need a wash anyway. I can buy anything else I need I'm sure.
The airport here has 30 free minutes of wi-fi. Unfortunately the system kicked me off after about 10 minutes. Now I can't login again for another hour or so. At that point I want to be in my gate getting ready to board my last outbound flight.
So now I'm in debate whether I should get some coffee and stay awake or sleep on the plane. I got hardly any sleep last night. I'm afraid that I'll want to sleep when I get there and that will throw off my system. I have no idea when Bill is showing up. I haven't gotten an email with his itinerary. I'm sure it is coming, I just hope I have internet access to get it.
Sunday, March 13, 2011
McGuire's is in the bag!
I did it! I had a really fun time and enjoyed all the craziness! There were 11,000+ runners and walkers, many in costume and almost all in green. It was an incredible scene!
How did I do? In a word ... AWESOME! I took 26 seconds off my previous best of 29:14 and posted a 28:47.84 time. It was off my predicted time of 30:03, but definitely in the right direction!
I ran with Chris G, one of my Daily Mile buddies. I knew he would push me. I told him to go ahead and leave me behind if I was slowing him down. He did, but only right at the end. He did it so he could finish and then take pictures of me. How cool is that?
Here I am with Chris
Here I am with Jackie, Chris's wife, who just completed the Couch to 5k program and finished in 42:06
And here are Chris and Jackie
This was also Cookie Amy's first 5k! Carol, the woman who inspired me to start running ran with her to motivate her along. She said she did mostly walks, and that is OK. It was good for Carol too, as she is getting ready for a race next weekend and didn't really want to push herself. Amy finished in 59:18.
I got a shot of Regina nearing the finish line. Her time was 1:05:39. I thought she would do better, but she was walking with Michelle and Kaitlan and having a great time. They ran the last few yards to the finish line.
The after party was fun, but way too crowded. We stuck around for a while and enjoyed the atmosphere. It was a good time.
Chris really started fast out the gate. Once we were able to cross the timing mats he took off like a rocket. We were dodging people and jumping curbs. I swear he was throwing people down and hurdling them! I felt like we were going too fast. That I couldn't maintain that pace for the whole run. I had a hard time trying to keep up with him. I expected that, as he is a sub-8 5k runner. He didn't care about his time and was more interested in helping me, which is really cool.
I was really breathing hard and he would slow down and catch up and then speed up and I tried hard. I can't say how many times I just wanted to slow down and walk. But I didn't. There wasn't any juice in the tank when I got to the finish line. I couldn't speed up. I did maintain pace and cross with a big smile. I knew I had done well. My time averages to a 9:17 pace, which while it isn't speedy by race standards, it is quite speedy for me. I'm super happy with it!
How did I do? In a word ... AWESOME! I took 26 seconds off my previous best of 29:14 and posted a 28:47.84 time. It was off my predicted time of 30:03, but definitely in the right direction!
I ran with Chris G, one of my Daily Mile buddies. I knew he would push me. I told him to go ahead and leave me behind if I was slowing him down. He did, but only right at the end. He did it so he could finish and then take pictures of me. How cool is that?
Here I am with Chris
Here I am with Jackie, Chris's wife, who just completed the Couch to 5k program and finished in 42:06
And here are Chris and Jackie
This was also Cookie Amy's first 5k! Carol, the woman who inspired me to start running ran with her to motivate her along. She said she did mostly walks, and that is OK. It was good for Carol too, as she is getting ready for a race next weekend and didn't really want to push herself. Amy finished in 59:18.
I got a shot of Regina nearing the finish line. Her time was 1:05:39. I thought she would do better, but she was walking with Michelle and Kaitlan and having a great time. They ran the last few yards to the finish line.
The after party was fun, but way too crowded. We stuck around for a while and enjoyed the atmosphere. It was a good time.
Chris really started fast out the gate. Once we were able to cross the timing mats he took off like a rocket. We were dodging people and jumping curbs. I swear he was throwing people down and hurdling them! I felt like we were going too fast. That I couldn't maintain that pace for the whole run. I had a hard time trying to keep up with him. I expected that, as he is a sub-8 5k runner. He didn't care about his time and was more interested in helping me, which is really cool.
I was really breathing hard and he would slow down and catch up and then speed up and I tried hard. I can't say how many times I just wanted to slow down and walk. But I didn't. There wasn't any juice in the tank when I got to the finish line. I couldn't speed up. I did maintain pace and cross with a big smile. I knew I had done well. My time averages to a 9:17 pace, which while it isn't speedy by race standards, it is quite speedy for me. I'm super happy with it!
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Catching up
There's a lot to catch up on! The other day the weather was very odd. I was expecting the weird lightning bolts to come out of the sky just like in War of the Worlds.
The lady who owns The Yarn Cottage in Fairhope purchased some of my display furnishings and her husband came to pick them up. The clouds darkened as they loaded and we had quite a rain storm.
Regina and I have been able to get most of the items loaded into the new Artfire shop and I feel good about that. After today, all that is left will be the patterns. I can do those fairly easily from here once I'm out of the building.
I've had some hits on craigslist for some of the furniture, but I don't think I'll sell most of it. I don't know if I should keep listing it there or go ahead and consign it for a pittance.
Last last week I got a message from our friend Ty that he was in town and could we meet for dinner. We met Wednesday night and I really enjoyed our visit. We went to Horizen and had sushi.
I really enjoy talking to him. He has a lot of common sense and he thinks similarly to Bill. It was funny to hear him tell me the story of trying to convince his wife that it would be OK to do a cross country move with only two weeks' notice and that it was OK if she didn't want to work as a pharmacist or if she didn't want to work at all. Bill has had those conversations with me. I offered for her to call me if she needs advice, as I've been there done that and would be happy to tell my story. I hope we are stationed together in the future as they are really nice people.
Last night Regina and I went to pick up our race packets for today's McGuire's Prediction Run. We went with Cookie Amy. This will be her first 5k. I am so excited for her!! Afterwards, she and her mom and Archaeologist Jen and we went to Horizen for sushi. (Yup, twice in three days.) I'm looking forward to the run and I think it will be a blast! I predicted 30:03, but I plan to crush that time. Gotta go get ready for that!
The lady who owns The Yarn Cottage in Fairhope purchased some of my display furnishings and her husband came to pick them up. The clouds darkened as they loaded and we had quite a rain storm.
Regina and I have been able to get most of the items loaded into the new Artfire shop and I feel good about that. After today, all that is left will be the patterns. I can do those fairly easily from here once I'm out of the building.
I've had some hits on craigslist for some of the furniture, but I don't think I'll sell most of it. I don't know if I should keep listing it there or go ahead and consign it for a pittance.
Last last week I got a message from our friend Ty that he was in town and could we meet for dinner. We met Wednesday night and I really enjoyed our visit. We went to Horizen and had sushi.
I really enjoy talking to him. He has a lot of common sense and he thinks similarly to Bill. It was funny to hear him tell me the story of trying to convince his wife that it would be OK to do a cross country move with only two weeks' notice and that it was OK if she didn't want to work as a pharmacist or if she didn't want to work at all. Bill has had those conversations with me. I offered for her to call me if she needs advice, as I've been there done that and would be happy to tell my story. I hope we are stationed together in the future as they are really nice people.
Last night Regina and I went to pick up our race packets for today's McGuire's Prediction Run. We went with Cookie Amy. This will be her first 5k. I am so excited for her!! Afterwards, she and her mom and Archaeologist Jen and we went to Horizen for sushi. (Yup, twice in three days.) I'm looking forward to the run and I think it will be a blast! I predicted 30:03, but I plan to crush that time. Gotta go get ready for that!
Wednesday, March 09, 2011
Recovery run
First run since the half. The weather conditions were similar: overcast and really windy. The temperature was about 20 degrees warmer and that made for a pleasant run. I took it nice and easy like I was supposed to. The headwinds were tough, but overall it was a good run.
I ran 4.00 miles in 45:14 for an average pace of 11:18. Splits: 11:07, 11:16, 11:36, 11:13. I did not bring the HRM, as I think it is having issues.
I ran 4.00 miles in 45:14 for an average pace of 11:18. Splits: 11:07, 11:16, 11:36, 11:13. I did not bring the HRM, as I think it is having issues.
Tuesday, March 08, 2011
Nice and easy ride
I took the comfort bike out today for an easy ride. Just a half hour to flush the legs and continue the recovery process. It was cool out and windy, but not bad. I enjoyed the ride. I took Bellview out to Cookie Amy's house and back, rode a little through the Zachary neighborhood and then went home.
I rode 5.12 miles in 30:10 for an average speed of 10.2 mph. No land speed records were set on this ride.
I rode 5.12 miles in 30:10 for an average speed of 10.2 mph. No land speed records were set on this ride.
Monday, March 07, 2011
No problems there or back
We got back safe and sound! We got up this morning and started the long process of getting ready to leave. There's a lot that goes into this RVing thing that I think most people don't get. I was able to get hte sewer hose hooked up and we did each item we were supposed to.
I thanked the owners of the place for a wonderful stay and I think I'll be back. It was a nice place to stay. Unfortunately we had to run the furnace yesterday and last night. That meant I had to take the tape off the exhaust hole. Now I need to buy a cover. Yes, I've been saying that for six months or more. I have to do it!
It took me a while to get the coach lined up and backed in the space. I'm not sure why it was more difficult today. The extra time we took loading the truck paid off in that we were on our way pretty quickly after unhooking. The lawn guy was supposed to show up and give me a price to get everything up to snuff, but he didn't show. I'm a little disappointed.
When we got home there was a box on the porch. UPS delivered our wine shipment from Harmony. It's nice that they didn't take a signature, but it had been on the porch in plain view since Friday. I'm a little bummed about that.
Leah came over and worked on my lower legs. My thighs were tight too. She said she was amazed at how much pressure I was taking on my legs and feet. I am getting closer to that "deep tissue" place. I can say that my legs feel great!
Tomorrow is going to be a difficult day. My friend Cherryl lost her twins a few days ago, a week before they were to be delivered. Tomorrow is the graveside service and I intend to be there. I told Regina that she didn't have to go, but I need to. I will offer them my condolences and let them know that I am here for them, whenever they are ready. I don't know what to say, other than I will support them and offer them a shoulder to cry on or whatever support they need. I think they are fantastic people and to suffer this loss on top of a miscarriage a month before the pregnancy is just awful.
Following that I'm going to the shop to try to finish putting the yarns online. Rhonda should be coming on Wednesday to pick up the furniture and what she got to plus up her inventory and the furniture consigner is coming on Thursday. I don't anticipate being in the shop after Friday, so I want to get a lot done now. I feel like there is so much that I will never be done!
I thanked the owners of the place for a wonderful stay and I think I'll be back. It was a nice place to stay. Unfortunately we had to run the furnace yesterday and last night. That meant I had to take the tape off the exhaust hole. Now I need to buy a cover. Yes, I've been saying that for six months or more. I have to do it!
It took me a while to get the coach lined up and backed in the space. I'm not sure why it was more difficult today. The extra time we took loading the truck paid off in that we were on our way pretty quickly after unhooking. The lawn guy was supposed to show up and give me a price to get everything up to snuff, but he didn't show. I'm a little disappointed.
When we got home there was a box on the porch. UPS delivered our wine shipment from Harmony. It's nice that they didn't take a signature, but it had been on the porch in plain view since Friday. I'm a little bummed about that.
Leah came over and worked on my lower legs. My thighs were tight too. She said she was amazed at how much pressure I was taking on my legs and feet. I am getting closer to that "deep tissue" place. I can say that my legs feel great!
Tomorrow is going to be a difficult day. My friend Cherryl lost her twins a few days ago, a week before they were to be delivered. Tomorrow is the graveside service and I intend to be there. I told Regina that she didn't have to go, but I need to. I will offer them my condolences and let them know that I am here for them, whenever they are ready. I don't know what to say, other than I will support them and offer them a shoulder to cry on or whatever support they need. I think they are fantastic people and to suffer this loss on top of a miscarriage a month before the pregnancy is just awful.
Following that I'm going to the shop to try to finish putting the yarns online. Rhonda should be coming on Wednesday to pick up the furniture and what she got to plus up her inventory and the furniture consigner is coming on Thursday. I don't anticipate being in the shop after Friday, so I want to get a lot done now. I feel like there is so much that I will never be done!
Sunday, March 06, 2011
PR at Seaside
WHAT A DAY!! I wanted this race and I wanted it bad! I was so enthused by my time and success at the Double Bridge Run that I thought if I can do that pace for 9.3, maybe I can do it for the Half (or at least the first 9.3 of the half). I did that at a 10:01 pace.
The weather SUCKED! It rained all night and just stopped as we got to Publix to get on the shuttle. It was 50 degrees and freezing. The winds were around 20mph. I dressed in capris, a long sleeve under my Run Molly Run shirt, arm warmers, and I had a jacket and hat on. I knew I would discard those with Regina at the first mile. It was so hard to keep warm at the beginning. Finally I made my way to the start area. I couldn't find the pace markers. I thought I might have been too far back so I moved up. Then I saw that I was in the 9 min pace area. Oops. Too late to change.
Someone sang the National Anthem and then they fired the gun. We were off! I had gone about a minute or so when I heard my phone ringing. I looked and it was a number I didn't know but recognized. Bill! He was calling to wish me well but didn't realize we had started. I wouldn't have answered the phone for anyone else.
So I pressed on and surprised Regina. She was overwhelmed by all the runners that she didn't really see me until I had passed. I thought I was at a good pace and tried not to go too fast. I kept it up and made it to the 6 mile point at 1:01. I'm still wondering if I'll get that sub-60 10k. The headwinds were really strong on the way out and I was looking forward to a boost on the way back. We got to Gulf Place and did the turn around. All of a sudden the winds were variable and felt like a headwind most of the way back! Grr.
I slowed a little around mile 8. I'm not sure why, as I don't remember anything specific there. I picked the pace back up again as I realized that I was on DBR pace (the Garmin had me at 9.45 miles at 1:36). From that point it was one foot in front of the other as I pressed on to the end.
I saw Regina and waved. I made sure to get all the way over the edge of the road so she'd see me. She was on the phone. As I got near her she held the phone out. I knew Bill was on the other end but unfortunately with the wind noise and the crowd I didn't hear him. It was super awesome to know he was on the phone and that gave me some more oomph to make it. The guys behind me asked if she was giving me the phone and I said that it was my husband calling from AFG to cheer me on. They were impressed. I was smiling!
Then I saw the familiar sites: the wine bar (I wanted to stop there) and the cuteness of Watercolor and Seaside. Then I heard the music and saw the finish line banner. I put everything else I had into that final two tenths. It paid off!
As I came under the banner I looked at the clock and it said 2:13:56! My Garmin read 2:13:12! I can't believe I did it! My pace averaged 10:08 and I came in under my stretch goal of 2:15. I was realistically going for 2:20 to 2:22. But you have to have a stretch goal and 2:15 it was. For anyone keeping track, today's time is 15:04 faster than my Disney Half!
After I got through the chute and got my medal I went in and got a banana and had my official finisher picture taken. Then I wandered and asked the first person I saw with a beer where I could get one. I went to the beer truck and started replenishing the carbs. Bill called me and we talked for a few minutes. He is so proud of me and is amazed by my performance today! I loved that he was there at the start, near the end, and at the end. That was just great!
When I hung up with him I called Coach Mark. I got his voicemail and figured it was because he was on some crazy Ironman workout. Turns out he was, a 120 mile bike ride. I left the details in the message and he called me this afternoon to get a recap. He was also so proud of me and excited for me. He told me that he doesn't care how many bottles of wine I have today as long as I take care of my legs. It's a deal! Then he said he was going to call Coach John to share the news. Sure enough, a few minutes later Coach John posted on FB about my accomplishments:
Here I am after the race. Regina took the picture when she got back from calling the times. I wasn't able to smile as much as I wanted to because my face was frozen!
Here's my Garmin with the official unofficial results:
And my bling
and my Vera Bradley tote (she was the presenting sponsor and all HM finishers got a tote)
and my reward for later
The weather SUCKED! It rained all night and just stopped as we got to Publix to get on the shuttle. It was 50 degrees and freezing. The winds were around 20mph. I dressed in capris, a long sleeve under my Run Molly Run shirt, arm warmers, and I had a jacket and hat on. I knew I would discard those with Regina at the first mile. It was so hard to keep warm at the beginning. Finally I made my way to the start area. I couldn't find the pace markers. I thought I might have been too far back so I moved up. Then I saw that I was in the 9 min pace area. Oops. Too late to change.
Someone sang the National Anthem and then they fired the gun. We were off! I had gone about a minute or so when I heard my phone ringing. I looked and it was a number I didn't know but recognized. Bill! He was calling to wish me well but didn't realize we had started. I wouldn't have answered the phone for anyone else.
So I pressed on and surprised Regina. She was overwhelmed by all the runners that she didn't really see me until I had passed. I thought I was at a good pace and tried not to go too fast. I kept it up and made it to the 6 mile point at 1:01. I'm still wondering if I'll get that sub-60 10k. The headwinds were really strong on the way out and I was looking forward to a boost on the way back. We got to Gulf Place and did the turn around. All of a sudden the winds were variable and felt like a headwind most of the way back! Grr.
I slowed a little around mile 8. I'm not sure why, as I don't remember anything specific there. I picked the pace back up again as I realized that I was on DBR pace (the Garmin had me at 9.45 miles at 1:36). From that point it was one foot in front of the other as I pressed on to the end.
I saw Regina and waved. I made sure to get all the way over the edge of the road so she'd see me. She was on the phone. As I got near her she held the phone out. I knew Bill was on the other end but unfortunately with the wind noise and the crowd I didn't hear him. It was super awesome to know he was on the phone and that gave me some more oomph to make it. The guys behind me asked if she was giving me the phone and I said that it was my husband calling from AFG to cheer me on. They were impressed. I was smiling!
Then I saw the familiar sites: the wine bar (I wanted to stop there) and the cuteness of Watercolor and Seaside. Then I heard the music and saw the finish line banner. I put everything else I had into that final two tenths. It paid off!
As I came under the banner I looked at the clock and it said 2:13:56! My Garmin read 2:13:12! I can't believe I did it! My pace averaged 10:08 and I came in under my stretch goal of 2:15. I was realistically going for 2:20 to 2:22. But you have to have a stretch goal and 2:15 it was. For anyone keeping track, today's time is 15:04 faster than my Disney Half!
After I got through the chute and got my medal I went in and got a banana and had my official finisher picture taken. Then I wandered and asked the first person I saw with a beer where I could get one. I went to the beer truck and started replenishing the carbs. Bill called me and we talked for a few minutes. He is so proud of me and is amazed by my performance today! I loved that he was there at the start, near the end, and at the end. That was just great!
When I hung up with him I called Coach Mark. I got his voicemail and figured it was because he was on some crazy Ironman workout. Turns out he was, a 120 mile bike ride. I left the details in the message and he called me this afternoon to get a recap. He was also so proud of me and excited for me. He told me that he doesn't care how many bottles of wine I have today as long as I take care of my legs. It's a deal! Then he said he was going to call Coach John to share the news. Sure enough, a few minutes later Coach John posted on FB about my accomplishments:
Here I am after the race. Regina took the picture when she got back from calling the times. I wasn't able to smile as much as I wanted to because my face was frozen!
Here's my Garmin with the official unofficial results:
And my bling
and my Vera Bradley tote (she was the presenting sponsor and all HM finishers got a tote)
and my reward for later
Saturday, March 05, 2011
Getting ready
I went to bed early last night. I was pooped. The two glasses of wine I had may have had something to do with that too. I slept like a rock for most of the night. Then I tossed and turned for a few hours and then drifted off again. I finally surrendered and got up around 9. Yup. Twelve hours. Nice!
It rained overnight and I was feeling less optimistic about the weather for the run. The sun came out for a little while this morning, but the winds have picked up. I think it will be a chilly, windy, and humid run Sunday. It's going to be fun, though, regardless of the weather.
We went to packet pickup at the expo. The place was packed. The band that was performing appeared to be made of school kids. The school that this race benefits is a charter middle school. It wouldn't surprise me if the kids were students there. They were pretty decent.
Regina checked in at the volunteer tent. They claim to have emailed her all the information she needed, but she didn't get it. They didn't have any extra handouts and decided not to make her a copy. The lady said she'd email them again tonight. I think we have the gist of what she is supposed to be doing and where she needs to be and when. It is going to be an early day. Especially since I've got to feed the dogs and make sure they've gone out and done something before we leave.
I am trying to decide what to wear. It is tough because I don't want to be too hot, as there is no place to shed extra clothes, but I don't want to be too cold either. Part of me wants to wear a hat to keep my hair from blowing all over. The other part doesn't want to because I don't want it blowing off my head in the middle of the run. Grr. What to do?
I didn't do my pre-race run this morning. I didn't want to go out in the rain. I know that sounds like a cop-out, and it is, but I don't feel too badly about it. I think I am ready for this race. The extra two miles isn't going to make or break this race, I don't think.
It rained overnight and I was feeling less optimistic about the weather for the run. The sun came out for a little while this morning, but the winds have picked up. I think it will be a chilly, windy, and humid run Sunday. It's going to be fun, though, regardless of the weather.
We went to packet pickup at the expo. The place was packed. The band that was performing appeared to be made of school kids. The school that this race benefits is a charter middle school. It wouldn't surprise me if the kids were students there. They were pretty decent.
Regina checked in at the volunteer tent. They claim to have emailed her all the information she needed, but she didn't get it. They didn't have any extra handouts and decided not to make her a copy. The lady said she'd email them again tonight. I think we have the gist of what she is supposed to be doing and where she needs to be and when. It is going to be an early day. Especially since I've got to feed the dogs and make sure they've gone out and done something before we leave.
I am trying to decide what to wear. It is tough because I don't want to be too hot, as there is no place to shed extra clothes, but I don't want to be too cold either. Part of me wants to wear a hat to keep my hair from blowing all over. The other part doesn't want to because I don't want it blowing off my head in the middle of the run. Grr. What to do?
I didn't do my pre-race run this morning. I didn't want to go out in the rain. I know that sounds like a cop-out, and it is, but I don't feel too badly about it. I think I am ready for this race. The extra two miles isn't going to make or break this race, I don't think.
Successful trip!
Well, I got the RV here to Santa Rosa Beach, FL, safe and sound. It was a bit of a struggle with 30 mph winds, crosswise on the bridge and headwinds the rest of the way. I hooked up the coach, attached the leveler bars and sway mechanism and got underway. It was an ordeal, just because of everything that had to be done, but Regina lent a hand and it wasn't bad.
The only thing that needs to be solved is the sewer. The inlet has a ring in it that is the same size as my hose. I will talk to the owners and see what we can do. It just may be that I have to stop at the dump on the way out. I'd much rather dump at the site.
Yesterday afternoon Regina and I went down to check out Seaside and drive the course. It is going to be absolutely beautiful! Regina's work location is right on a lake, so she'll have a great view as well. She may not have any shade or shelter, though.
It rained last night. Not heavy and it was on and off, but it kind of bums me out. The wind has also picked up here. I hope it will all blow through before tomorrow.
I'm supposed to do a short run today, but I'm thinking I won't. We'll see what the weather looks like later today, but I'm thinking another day off won't kill me.
Well, it is time to go down to packet pick up!
The only thing that needs to be solved is the sewer. The inlet has a ring in it that is the same size as my hose. I will talk to the owners and see what we can do. It just may be that I have to stop at the dump on the way out. I'd much rather dump at the site.
Yesterday afternoon Regina and I went down to check out Seaside and drive the course. It is going to be absolutely beautiful! Regina's work location is right on a lake, so she'll have a great view as well. She may not have any shade or shelter, though.
It rained last night. Not heavy and it was on and off, but it kind of bums me out. The wind has also picked up here. I hope it will all blow through before tomorrow.
I'm supposed to do a short run today, but I'm thinking I won't. We'll see what the weather looks like later today, but I'm thinking another day off won't kill me.
Well, it is time to go down to packet pick up!
Thursday, March 03, 2011
Last easy run before Seaside
Today was the last easy run before Seaside. I was supposed to do 45 minutes at an easy pace. I went out this morning fairly early. It was windy, but not nearly as windy as it got a few hours later. I ran 4.07 miles in 45:00 for an average pace of 11:03.
Splits: 10:42, 11:02, 11:12, 11:15, 0:50 (for 0.07 mi, 11:10 pace). Avg HR = 230. I think there is something wrong with the HRM. The past few runs have registered over 200. I am sure that is not correct. Sunday's run was nice and easy (and wonderfully consistent) and that's when I first thought there might be a problem with the HRM. I don't' know what to do about it.
I have a short run on the schedule for Saturday and then the big run Sunday morning. I hope the weather will hold out!!
Splits: 10:42, 11:02, 11:12, 11:15, 0:50 (for 0.07 mi, 11:10 pace). Avg HR = 230. I think there is something wrong with the HRM. The past few runs have registered over 200. I am sure that is not correct. Sunday's run was nice and easy (and wonderfully consistent) and that's when I first thought there might be a problem with the HRM. I don't' know what to do about it.
I have a short run on the schedule for Saturday and then the big run Sunday morning. I hope the weather will hold out!!
Ego inflation and deflation
I went to the Exchange yesterday. The ad said that they had Asics Gel Kayanos on sale for $84. That is a great price! Unfortunately they didn't have my size. They took my information and will call me when a pair comes in and give me a raincheck for the price.
Regina and I meandered through the clothing section to see if there was anything that we couldn't live without. I saw a cute tee on the Life is Good rack that had a pair of running shoes on the front and said "Gotta Run". They only had small and large. I figured I'd get the small and use it for a sleep shirt. Regina suggested I try it on. It fits! I couldn't believe it!
So then I got inspired to find jeans. I found two pairs of size 4 (!) that I tried on. The first was a little tight in the rump. The second one fit perfectly! I ran to the shelf, but that was the only one they had. I even asked them to check in the back. Oh well, but I figured now that I know what fits I can get more elsewhere.
I took them up to the register and the lady saw there was no price tag. She held up the jeans and asked, "Ladies or Childrens?" I said, "Ladies" with the biggest grin on my face! She called for a price check. When the price check never called, she went to find out herself.
That was such a lift! I've broken down through another number on the scale and I feel great about that. I know you aren't supposed to lose weight while training, but I think all the slower runs to build my endurance are also helping to burn fat. Yippee!!
Tonight I started a load of laundry. I took the tags off my new jeans. I checked the label to see which number Levis they were (512) and what did I see? The size on the tag inside the jeans said 6M! What?! The sticker outside the leg said 4M. One of these things is not like the other. I don't know which to believe unless I go back to try on another pair and check the actual size.
Now don't get me wrong, I am THRILLED to be wearing a size 6! I was really excited by the thought of wearing a size 4, so my ego was a little crushed when I saw the mixup. It's OK. I am still happy with how I look and how my clothes fit (or don't fit, as the case may be).
Regina and I meandered through the clothing section to see if there was anything that we couldn't live without. I saw a cute tee on the Life is Good rack that had a pair of running shoes on the front and said "Gotta Run". They only had small and large. I figured I'd get the small and use it for a sleep shirt. Regina suggested I try it on. It fits! I couldn't believe it!
So then I got inspired to find jeans. I found two pairs of size 4 (!) that I tried on. The first was a little tight in the rump. The second one fit perfectly! I ran to the shelf, but that was the only one they had. I even asked them to check in the back. Oh well, but I figured now that I know what fits I can get more elsewhere.
I took them up to the register and the lady saw there was no price tag. She held up the jeans and asked, "Ladies or Childrens?" I said, "Ladies" with the biggest grin on my face! She called for a price check. When the price check never called, she went to find out herself.
That was such a lift! I've broken down through another number on the scale and I feel great about that. I know you aren't supposed to lose weight while training, but I think all the slower runs to build my endurance are also helping to burn fat. Yippee!!
Tonight I started a load of laundry. I took the tags off my new jeans. I checked the label to see which number Levis they were (512) and what did I see? The size on the tag inside the jeans said 6M! What?! The sticker outside the leg said 4M. One of these things is not like the other. I don't know which to believe unless I go back to try on another pair and check the actual size.
Now don't get me wrong, I am THRILLED to be wearing a size 6! I was really excited by the thought of wearing a size 4, so my ego was a little crushed when I saw the mixup. It's OK. I am still happy with how I look and how my clothes fit (or don't fit, as the case may be).
Wednesday, March 02, 2011
Very productive day
Regina and I got to the shop early yesterday after stopping for coffee and a short visit with Teresa. We packed up a ton of stuff. I am really pleased with the progress we made. We are currently in debate on whether we want to leave for Seaside on Friday instead of Thursday and spend an extra day packing up or whether we will be OK with just today and four days next week. I think we'll see how we do today and go from there. We'll make that decision this afternoon.
I joined the McGuire's running group last night for the first time. It was a lot of fun! Regina decided to stay home. My friend Chris met me there. His wife started early and did her C25k workout. A woman who looked to be late 20s came up to me before Chris got there and asked if I was a lonely runner. She was in town visiting her dad and decided to run with the group and wanted someone to run with - someone who didn't have headphones on. I told her I needed to take it slow, and she seemed OK with that. When we started running I got the distinct impression that an 8 minute pace would be slow for her.
We flew down the road and I knew we were in the nines. I was having a great time being a part of a group and having people to talk to while running (although carrying on a conversation was a little tough for me) I didn't care how fast. She ended up going at her pace after the first mile and Chris and I stayed at the original pace. It was a little slow for him, too, but he was in it for the company.
We got to the end and found Marisa. We chatted for a few minutes and tried to get her to get on Daily Mile. There was a guy there in Vibrams and she asked him how he liked running in them. Of course he said they were great (I'm sure he wouldn't be running in them if he didn't like them). She asked if he had "meaty feet"? He looked at her a little quizzically and I said, "She's asking if your feet are as buff as the rest of you." That of course got a laugh from Chris and a smack on the arm from Marisa. But he took off his shoe and showed her his feet. Then his buddy called him over and Marisa gave me her email. Then she asked me what his name was and I said I didn't know. She said, "That's OK. I'll find out." and went over to talk to him. Chris and I left and as we were walking away I said that I hope I get an invitation to the wedding.
Chris and his wife go to Hopjack's after the run every week and he invited me to join them. The waitress only brought one menu, as apparently they get the same thing week after week. It wasn't until she brought the check that I realized that my purse was in the car back at McGuire's! I had my ID in my shoe wallet but no money. Chris said not to worry about it. I had a Pensacola Bay Brewery IPA with dinner and it was delicious! Then they drove me back to my car and went on their way. I headed home and told Regina the story and went to bed.
One other neat thing that happened yesterday is that I bought my first Groupon. Yesterday's deal was $15 for $30 at Bella Luna Pizzeria. That was the place with the EXCELLENT pizza! Yay! The deal is good until September, and it took all I had to not blow off McGuire's last night and go there instead! I'm glad I didn't. There will be other days to use it, I'm sure.
I joined the McGuire's running group last night for the first time. It was a lot of fun! Regina decided to stay home. My friend Chris met me there. His wife started early and did her C25k workout. A woman who looked to be late 20s came up to me before Chris got there and asked if I was a lonely runner. She was in town visiting her dad and decided to run with the group and wanted someone to run with - someone who didn't have headphones on. I told her I needed to take it slow, and she seemed OK with that. When we started running I got the distinct impression that an 8 minute pace would be slow for her.
We flew down the road and I knew we were in the nines. I was having a great time being a part of a group and having people to talk to while running (although carrying on a conversation was a little tough for me) I didn't care how fast. She ended up going at her pace after the first mile and Chris and I stayed at the original pace. It was a little slow for him, too, but he was in it for the company.
We got to the end and found Marisa. We chatted for a few minutes and tried to get her to get on Daily Mile. There was a guy there in Vibrams and she asked him how he liked running in them. Of course he said they were great (I'm sure he wouldn't be running in them if he didn't like them). She asked if he had "meaty feet"? He looked at her a little quizzically and I said, "She's asking if your feet are as buff as the rest of you." That of course got a laugh from Chris and a smack on the arm from Marisa. But he took off his shoe and showed her his feet. Then his buddy called him over and Marisa gave me her email. Then she asked me what his name was and I said I didn't know. She said, "That's OK. I'll find out." and went over to talk to him. Chris and I left and as we were walking away I said that I hope I get an invitation to the wedding.
Chris and his wife go to Hopjack's after the run every week and he invited me to join them. The waitress only brought one menu, as apparently they get the same thing week after week. It wasn't until she brought the check that I realized that my purse was in the car back at McGuire's! I had my ID in my shoe wallet but no money. Chris said not to worry about it. I had a Pensacola Bay Brewery IPA with dinner and it was delicious! Then they drove me back to my car and went on their way. I headed home and told Regina the story and went to bed.
One other neat thing that happened yesterday is that I bought my first Groupon. Yesterday's deal was $15 for $30 at Bella Luna Pizzeria. That was the place with the EXCELLENT pizza! Yay! The deal is good until September, and it took all I had to not blow off McGuire's last night and go there instead! I'm glad I didn't. There will be other days to use it, I'm sure.
First McGuire's run
I went and joined the Tuesday night running club at McGuire's last night. It was SO MUCH FUN!! I was supposed to do an easy run (>11:30) but ended up doing a fast run. I told Chris I needed to take it easy but we started off fast and stayed that way. I did 3.11 in 31:15, for an average pace of 10:03. Splits: 9:52, 9:57, 10:23, 1:02 (9:40 pace). Avg HR = 202.
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