Amy's "BUT I'M NOT A RUNNER" Journal

[ScoJo15]

Hi Amy!

Wow...75 min yoga classes...consultations with people who contribute to Runner's World....pulling all nighters, getting minimal sleep (what are you doing all night, anyway? )...torturing yourself.....dealing with voices in your head and you still put together an amazing 6 mile run?? WAY TO GO AMY!!!

You continue to amaze me every single day!! I've said it before but your determination and drive are so awe inspiring. Let's face it, I would not be where I am today without feeding off of your success and willpower...you've challenged and supported me from the get go and I thank you for it

I'm glad to see the foot is finally getting better for you and it's nice to see that the yoga class is coming along so well. I know it's not a perfect substitute for that grueling KBX class, but to find something that you enjoy and is challenging on its own level must make you feel pretty good.

Keep in mind though, that you aren't out of the woods yet....so take it easy on your body. You've got a lot of training to do between now and WDW, both running and various XT activities, so make sure you are physically capable to handle it .

Anway, I'm so proud of you!! And so happy to see you back into the training!! Welcome back, "buddy"!!

Have a great day!

 

[ScoJo15]

Good Morning Amy

Just wanted to wish you luck on your run this morning and tell you that I hope everything goes well this afternoon with your ortho appointment. I'll be thinking about you

Have a great day!

 

[kimwim8]

Hey lady. Hope everything is going well. I'm just following Mr. I around the boards this morning.

Take care! Hugs for your day.

 

[eeyore25]

Hi Amy,

You are doing a great job!!! Keep up the good work. 75 minutes of yoga...that is awesome!

You did a great job on your run as well!!! Keep it up!

Have a great day

 

[toystoryduo]

Hi Amy,

You are doing a great job! Keep up the good work!

I'm glad that the Yoga is helping you. When I was in high school, I was a gymnast and the best part of practice was all of the stretching and warm-up prior to tumbling... It really helped to loosen up the muscles. The worst part of practice? Falling off of the balance beam several times a practice!

Amy, you have been such an inspiration to me! You have done an amazing job the past few months... You have worked hard and persevered (sp?) through an injury. I know that you are going to do a great job in January! I will definitely be cheering you on from Ohio!

Have a great weekend!

 

[eeyore25]

Hi Amy,

Just wanted to pop in and say hi
Hope you are doing well.

Have a great weekend

 

[AmyBeth68]

Hi guys. Thank you all so very much for all the kind words and encouragement. It really means so much to me and I appreciate it more than I can say.

I am not a quitter. I refuse to give up. But I am battling a new injury. Since my 10 mile run yesterday (actually the discomfort started earlier in the week)...but basically I am limping around and dealing with pain in my right knee . It is so frustrating. I have entertained ideas of giving up and admitting defeat. But that is really against my character and goes against every cell of being. So I will address this in the coming week. I have a follow-up appointment with the orthopedist this week...it was supposed to be to assess my post-tib tendonitis. I think that now we'll need to see what is happening with my posterior knee, ligament, tendon area . I knew this journey would be tough...but not in my wildest dreams did I think it would be this painful. It has truly tested my will week in and week out. I still have so many miles to run before Jan. 7th. I have to be honest and say that the road ahead looks to be very daunting.

As for my training last week...here's how it shaped up:

Monday: Ran a little over 5 miles (50 minute run)
Tuesday: 75 minutes of Yoga
Wednesday: Ran 3 miles in 25:51, 8:37 mpm avg, 173 avg. HR
Thursday: Scheduled Rest Day
Friday: Yoga was cancelled...another rest day
Saturday: 10 miles 1:40:13, 10:01 mpm avg, 173 avg. HR

Saturday's Splits:
9:38/9:28/9:55/10:14/10:13/10:37/10:03/9:55/10:34/9:33

It was a hard run. I hit a wall around mile 8 - 9 in which I truly thought I might collapse. There was just something hearbreaking about this run. It wasn't one of those experiences where you lose yourself in the run...or enjoy it...nope...it was truly grueling. I'm staring down a tough week of training...and I'm not even sure I'll be able to run my 50 minutes tomorrow let alone my 12 mile long run next weekend. I think running for 2 hours straight is going to be a bit lonely lol?! I just want to get there...and at least see if I can make it enjoyable.

Can somebody PLEASE explain to me why I am running 26.2 miles in January? Seriously???? The reality hit hard at mile 8. This is no joke. And there are times when I am so completely alone out there....questioning my sanity...my commitment....and my ability. I'm not sure I really want to spend this much time alone with myself!! OK...enough whining. Thanks for listening to my ramblings!!!

Suffering is the sole origin of consciousness.
-Dostoyevsky

 

[kimwim8]

BIG hugs to you, Amy.

To me, the reason you want to run this marathon in January was to push yourself and prove to yourself that you CAN do anything you put your mind to. You have already done more than you've ever done and more than most people ever do in their lifetime. Just committing to that marathon - signing up and making your WDW ressies.....you blew so many of us away! Yes, I talk smack and say I want to do a 1/2 marathon....but will I...I don't know.

Keep that chin held high, Amy. You are truly an inspiration. Marathon or not - in my eyes. I know that you'll still be there in January - lined up with the rest of them (right next to Scott, probably ). And whether you run the 26.2 miles, or you walk them, or do a little of both.....you will be a marathoner. And that is something that NO one, and NOTHING can take away from you!!

I'm sorry you're in pain and have a new injury. Please work with your doctors and do what they say as far as your training goes. Even with your injuries, you are pulling out some amazing runs on paper. I know it's frustrating when you don't feel well and aren't having those awesome runs....but like I said - chin up...you're still trying!!!

We love ya. Please keep us posted!

 

[toystoryduo]

Oh Amy,

I am so sorry to hear about your knee sweetie. I pray that the appointment with your doctor goes well and that the two of you can map out a strategy to get that knee healed as quickly as possible.

You have done such a wonderful job these past few months, Amy. I am so proud of you for all that you have accomplished! I know how hard it is for you right now, but stay the course my friend. Look at this as a hurdle..... You can go over it, around it, or under it, but Amy, I know that no matter what, you will get through this. You are a strong and amazing woman, Amy!

What Kim said is so true ....."Whether you run the 26.2 miles, or you walk them, or do a little of both.....you will be a marathoner. And that is something that NO one, and NOTHING can take away from you!!" You are a runner, Amy! You are a marathoner, Amy! Hold that close to your heart and keep your head held up high! You are a wonderful friend and an inspiration to many and we are here cheering you on each and every step of the way!

Love ya!

~Tracy

 

[ScoJo15]

Hi Amy!

Wow...so Kim really knocked it out of the park up there with that quote...guess I'll just have to put some random thoughts together

Amy, for you the marathon is so much more than sneakers, matching tech shirts & shorts, Garmins, Ipods and courses to run on. You know deep down the true reason why you are doing this and I bet it has something to do with the fact that you need a personal victory. No one (at least at our level) is running 26.2 miles for the hell of it. We are all here for personal reasons, we want accomplishments that we can call our own. We want to be tested, we want to be pushed to the limit..we want to find out what we are really made of inside. If the road to the starting line was easy, we would not have chose to run the race. The setbacks and injuries that will happen along the way are all just a part of testing who you are.

Amy, your very first post states that your journey is about changing perception...your family's perception of you, your own perception of yourself and maybe even our perception of ourselves. I know that quitting/giving up is not part of that vision. It's not who you are and it's not how we see you. I see you as the type of person who would need to be dragged off of that course, or any training run for that matter. I see your dedication, determination and unwillingness to quit in nearly every post and I'm sure everyone else sees the same thing. My perception of you? You ARE a runner, you ARE a marathon capable person. You've only got 83 days left...don't give up on this dream..this journey...this life changing event. You CAN do it. You CAN push through. Change that perception that you have of yourself...you are so close...don't question why you are doing it, just get out there and do your best.

We're with you every step of the way. You are not alone.

I'll see you at the starting line.

 

[kimwim8]

WOW, Scott. That one made me cry!

 

[kimwim8]

Hey, Amy. Just wanted you to know I'm here and think about you all the time. Please take care, and rest/heal. We're all pullin for ya!!

 

[AmyBeth68]

Thanks so much to you guys....Kim, Scott, Tracy! Thank you for all your words of encouragement and really...thanks for believing in me. Even on those days when I'm self-doubting! Which lately seems to be more often than not . BUT the good news is that I haven't quit...I'm still training and trying to get those steps in despite some minor set-backs.

So Sunday was a rest day. This past weekend was very hectic....after my run on Saturday we had to go to my husband's 20th HS Reunion LOL! Boy he's getting old . Yeah yeah....ahem...mine's coming up too. Weird to look around and think....wow....these people are SO OLD. OMG....I'M SO OLD!!!! OH NO...I'M REALLY OLD And since I knew very few people there...it was kind of interesting to watch the dynamics...me without a nametag...just eating and enjoying all the excitement and relieved to not feel the need to impress anyone with the stories of what it is I have or have not been doing in the past 20 years since I had big hair and even bigger aspirations lol.

OK...so that brings us to this weeks training thus far. (drum roll...)

Yes the knee has been stiff and sore. BUT the good news is that I got two days of PT in and they feel it isn't serious. So once again I've been overly dramatic for no reason . I decided to take Monday as an XT day...and did the non-impact ski machine for 30 minutes AND that brutal ab/arm routine (who made that thing up anyway...someone needs to kick her butt!!! ). Yesterday I did my first fun of the week . Overall I'm very pleased as I did 5.4 miles in 51:00 minutes . So that is a 9:27 pace...the knee was stiff but not painful....and one run down! Hurray!

Today I'll do another XT...probably ski machine and abs/arms. Tomorrow I'll run again. And Friday is questionable? I was supposed to do 3 weekday runs...but I don't think that is wise. I really really REALLY want to have a successful 12 mile run on Saturday morning!!! So here's hoping the weather is decent, my knee holds up and that 8 mile wall doesn't jump out of the woods and into my path again this week. A successful long run....that is what I really really need this week! So send some of that PD my way guys .

And really, truly...from the bottom of my heart....THANK YOU SO MUCH guys for all the support and encouragement! I know I get dramatic LOL...(who me ). But this training is definitely pushing me and testing me....having friends and family to give me that much needed help is really special!

 

[ScoJo15]

Hi Amy!

Wow...glad to see that the knee is nothing serious. How's the ankle issue coming along? Since you aren't mentioning it, I'm assuming that everything is ok . Great great job getting out there and running! Not only did you get out there, but you were fast too! Be careful and don't push it too much...you're supposed to be recovering you know.

About Friday...I would NOT run. No way....run Thurs, Fri and then 12 on Sat? That's crazy. Can't you do some yoga or stretching routine on Fri instead? Seems like that would help prepare you for the weekend run. Oh and about that run...what are you eating during the long runs? Gels, beans or what? I've tried a gel and the sport beans but am still searching for something that really pleases the appetite....any suggestions?

Overall though, great job!! I'm really happy to see you getting back on track and just know that it's a huge boost for your personal confidence. WAY TO GO!!

Have a great day!

 

[kimwim8]

Yesterday I did my first fun of the week .

Not sure if that was a typo, or play on words, or your subconscious kicking in....but you put fun instead of run! THAT'S MY AMY!!!

I definitely do not find you dramatic. You are going through this major life-altering event and you've had GREAT times, and not-so-great times....but we're loving every minute of following along this journey with you (at least I am). Take care of yourself. I agree that a run Friday is probably not the best idea. To have runs 3 days in a row, with the 3rd being 12 miles is hard on ANYONE (even Mr. I. ). I'm glad you're pacing yourself now, looking ahead to the BIG goal!

 

[AmyBeth68]

Thanks guys!

Yesterday was a completely uninspired and possibly useless 30 minute ski machine XT. Changing the schedule up this week has caused me to miss yoga, so I'm trying to fill in with the nordic track thing. I'm not feelin' the love...way too boring! I did manage to run through the ab/arm deal again...did both circuits and might now try to add one more circuit in. I know I won't be able to fully complete 3 but it's worth a try now. I think I can push it a bit more.

Today was another run day. I did 5 miles in 47:58. Not a super pace, but I'm slowing down with all the injuries I guess. My HR was 168 (high of 185) so pretty much on par with the other runs. Unfortunately, my legs didn't feel great during the run at all. I'm trying to figure out why there was so much stiffness and an overall heavy feeling. Occasionally that happens but I haven't pinpointed the reason . Could be caused by food, water...who knows?? Anyway, by the time I finished my knee was pretty much screamin' at me and now I'm dealing with soreness in my left achilles. My physical therapist told me I'm really killing myself out there. I know she thinks I should stop running...but of course as of right now that isn't going to happen. I see the doc tomorrow and hopefully the orthotics will help me a bunch. Sending myself some good vibes lol.

That's it for now. Tomorrow is XT. Saturday....let's just hope I can manage those 12 freakin' miles. I've sure learned that I can't obsess over my pace anymore. A good run is now simply one that I can complete lol. Here's to completing that one!

 

[kimwim8]

I've sure learned that I can't obsess over my pace anymore. A good run is now simply one that I can complete lol. Here's to completing that one!

Hugs to you, Amy! I know this is hard for you. But you are hanging in there, lady. (um, let me just add another circuit) You blow me away. And even with the injuries, heavy legs, stiffness...you are still amazing me with your speed. I know you used to be faster....but seriously - you're under 10mpm! That is impressive no matter HOW you look at it!

Please take care!

 

[goldcupmom]

I'm just catching up, Amy. Glad the knee and ankle are getting better and aren't serious, just a pain to deal with.

Your training continues to inspire! WTG!!!

Loved the Carrot, Egg, Coffee, but I think Scott did it best - GO RICE!!!!

 

[toystoryduo]

Hi Amy,

I'm glad to hear that your knee and ankle are feeling better. I hope that you continue to see improvement in those areas.

I know you have your 12 miler coming up this Saturday.... You will do a great job! Please be careful and listen to your body if you start feeling any pain.

You continue to be such an inspiration to me, Amy! Hope you have a great weekend and an awesome run on Saturday!

 

[eeyore25]

Hi Amy,

You're doing a great job on your runs...even if there is a little pain. Don't worry/stress over the times...you are getting out there and that is all that matters.

Keep up the good work, you are doing a wonderful job!

Have a good weekend