Confessions of a reluctant runner, a DL 1/2 & PHM PTR. 7/5 race recaps and final thoughts

[eandesmom]

I was just going to suggest a hair piece to make some costume-type look!
Cute!

I am excited for the headband. I really need to wear them on every run, it's so warm lately, and forget.

Glad your feet are holding up!

Too bad all those shoes are so expensive!

The sale helped a lot, on the boys alone I saved about $70. But still, it added up!!!

The feet are ok. Not 100% but not horrible either

Woo Hoo for wedding stalking! Love it!

Yes, I thought of you immediately!

I saw those shoes at the running store. Let me know how they work for you. They look very cute and light weight. Going to try my new shoes tomorrow.

I am very intrigued by them. They are doing this whole "mix up your run" campaign at Asics, basically suggesting using a couple of different shoes to use different biomechanics but at the same time, stick with a fit, feel and support you know works for you. They, and the reviews would suggest that this shoe is best for short tempo runs and races and is the one to try for people who wear my shoe. I do know a lot of folks alternate shoes for either that reason (biomechanics/training) or as one to have for races, one for long runs, one for trail etc. Or just to extend the life.

I figure worst case I can easily exchange them for what I have now but boy, they are a LOT lighter. Definitely felt a bit different but I think part of that was size. The heel through the arch seemed good, once the right ones get here we will see. I do love the idea of lighter, especially in the heat and for a race.

And ouch to the pocket book. I can imagine buying three good pairs of shoes at once is an ouch for sure.

It was pretty brutal. I "saved" $100 total on the 3 pairs between our "VIP" discount and then the sale so hey, that's like a free pair of shoes. Not. LOL! But really, for the shoes I got, to get out of there for $275 total is not bad. It did hurt though, no bones about it.

Love the head band.

thanks! I have not tried that brand before, hopefully it will stay on.

So glad that your long run went well. It sounds like you are right on track for the 1/2. What is the plan now? Do you scale back on mileage before the race?

Not yet although honestly my mileage is not all that much. I'll have basically my normal weekday runs (2), around 45 minutes each week until the race and then on Sundays it will look like this

This week - one plan calls for 4 miles, another basically 7. I had planned to do about 6. However, I may be going for a rather 11 mile hike Saturday am and if so, that might impact what I do on Sunday. After that it will be the 45 minutes twice a week and one more long run of 14 miles next weekend.

8/17- 14 miles. I may do that one on Saturday. My 30th HS reunion is on the 16th so maybe running 14 miles the day after is a bad idea. LOL!

8/24 - 4 or 5 miles. I am likely to do that one on Saturday as well. I will actually be out of town on business and flying back on the Sunday.

Which makes Jeff a bit crabby. I needed to stay Friday night...and chose to stay Sat. The flights were a lot better on Sunday and well...

I will be in Hawaii. I wanted one day for myself. Otherwise it would have basically been just a couple free hours early Saturday morning. Torture!

Just hoping no hurricanes while I am there and they survive this week ok (though it will be good for business).

I figure the heat run will be good, though heaven knows it has been plenty warm here! I should have 3 runs, all for that week, while there which will be interesting. Need to figure out a route actually.

8/31 - Half Marathon!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I'm so glad that your run went well! That's just awesome. I'm far behind my goal of 10 miles by the end of this month, based on my setback, so I'm working on that for September.

You are fine! PHM training plans don't even start until Oct. You are going to rock this.

Oof, running shoes are such a setback. Three pairs, I can't imagine.

Yeah, it was kind of brutal to be sure. Add in the inserts from the week before... and OUCH

I've been working through the fuel component too. Because I'm a lot slower than you, I'm out for longer, so I've been trying to figure out how much to hydrate, when to eat, what to eat. We're just all different, we have to find what works for us.

Yeah, it's a tough thing to figure out and just takes a lot of experimenting. I have likely not done nearly enough experimenting. Oh well.

Just found this TR! I don't know where I have been! Sounds like your journey to the half is similar to mine with nagging injuries! I JUST decided today I am going to be out there for the DLH weekend. I am gonna try and get to the marathon to cheer you all
on!

I saw that on Ann's! We will definitely need to figure out a meet.

!!!

What beautiful scenery to hike around.

Very spoiled that is for sure

You are doing fabulous and will have a wonderful race. The headband is a great idea!!!!

I am excited for the headband, it's a silly little thing but it makes me happy. Hopefully it will stay on my head. It should get here in time to test out.

Ouch on the shoes but if you all have good fitting shoes then time and money well spent.

Very true!

 

[eandesmom]

Catching up.

Love the shoes.

Thanks! I am excited, a bit of a set back on the order but hopefully I can run in them on Friday.

Hope your foot is better. Looks painful. I'm glad that you got Corral C. Should be a fun corral, right?

The foot is ok, no major issues at the moment on either of them lol. I am happy about C, I think it will be fun!

C IS for Cynthia you know!

What a gorgeous spot to go hiking. It's absolutely beautiful and I'm so envious.

We are very spoiled to be sure!

Yay for running your first half distance!! It's an amazing accomplishment. And finishing upright & with no bodily damage! Seems like you're in fairly decent shape to say the least. Pity the fuel didn't help at all (nor hurt?) but I hope you get things worked out in a way you like before the race (so soon!)

Ultimately finishing upright is the main goal, perhaps really the only goal that matters!

I am not sure what I am going to do about fuel, a couple of interesting ideas were posed to me, that I may or may not try. LOL!

Shoes look great, at least visually! I don't see the appeal in the Run Disney shoes myself, but maybe that's just me. Ah well.

I do think the Cinderella and Goofy ones are cute but not something I plan to stand in line for!!! Regular ones are expensive enough but ones you may or may not actually run in, no thanks. I don't wear tennis shoes unless I am running or at the gym so it really would be silly unless they were "right" for running.

Sounds like a great hike, and the scenery is breathtaking.

Thanks Kathy!

Caught up. Sounds like your training is going well, and definitely some great pictures from your hike.

Thanks Glenn!

 

[afwdwfan]

I'm glad you were able to get 13.1 in successfully. And with a decent time too. That has got to be very re-assuring for the races coming up.

And I like the Tiki Tiki Tiki Run headband.

 

[franandaj]

I'm exhausted just reading about all your activities! Hopefully the boys shoes last longer than the last pairs. Didn't you buy those at the beginning of the TR in progress?

Sounds like you and Jeff had a lovely night out together. The run is coming up quickly!

 

[rentayenta]

Love the Tiki Run headband!

 

[annmarieda]

I have been so MIA it isn't even funny!!! I am sorry.

In 30 days, I will be getting on a plane!

In 32 days, I will run through a castle!

32 days.

Yup... very far behind. See we are much closer now. less than 3 weeks and we leave.

Monday we went for a 4 mile walk. I actually had to wear my keen flip flops to not irritate my feet after the 12 mile run the day before. And one of my feet “tore” while we were out. Ow.

Ow is right! I had something slightly happen on my bunion in the last couple weeks... during a run and I thought of you. I can only imagine what yours feels like when it tears. OUCH

Thursday we ran. Best training run I've had in a LONG time. 4.7 miles at a 9:06 pace. It was cooler, just under 60 degrees, though quite humid (97%). Felt great the entire run, just easy and strong.

Was that a nice day? I just was so happy to finally have a cooler day to run.

I tried something new to try and help protect my feet which were still recovering from the 12 mile run the previous Sunday. I have had these lying around for years, tried them at some point for something as the package was open but have not used them in, I have no idea when!

Looks like those can really be helpful!

Sunday we went for a hike. This was scheduled to be a run day. The plans called for 4 miles or 15 miles. My plan was for 6. The hike was supposed to be an 8 mile hike and I was not sure if I should go run afterwards to make up the miles, run the next day instead to make up the miles or just call it good between the walks and the hike.

I love seeing all the pics on facebook of your hikes. We use to do a lot of hiking when the kids were younger. I haven't not been on a good hike in I can't remember how long.

It was a gorgeous day for a little hike!

8 mile hike isn't so little.

The hike ended up being only 6.5 miles total. But given that it was 80+ degrees out, when we got back, we elected to head here instead and jump in

Ok, so 6.5... but still not so little. .

In other news I am rethinking my outfit for the race. I wore this on the 12 mile run.

I think that will work out great! With the head band it will be perfect and very unique!!!

On the subject of fuel though, I picked some up for the long run on Sunday.

used the margarita shot blocks before and like them. Kind of like a giant gummy candy. In the warmer weather I do think it’s smart for me to have one or two.

Here are the recommendations

Generally, performance athletes need to consume 200-400 calories per hour from all sources, such as gels, chews, bars and drinks. Half a packet of CLIF SHOT BLOKS can be eaten 15 minutes prior to activity to increase blood sugar levels, followed by 1-2 packets per hour during activity. For flavors with added caffeine, we recommend half a packet 15 minutes before activity, and one packet during activity.

Ok, so you know I am big on taking fuel...doesn't matter if it is a 4 mile run or 14 mile run - I bring along fuel. however i would NEVER use the product this way. 1 to 2 packets per hour? Too much. There are times one of my honey stinger chews is too much. Besides, the shot blocks are just too much for me any way. I find I have to use only half of one rather than a full one.

Honestly, I cannot imagine eating that much before, or during a run! The most I have ever had on a run is 2 I think, and usually only 1. 1 block. Not 1 packet (packets have 6).

In an hours run I would probably use 3. For an entire half I probably would use the 6.

I also picked up some waffles. These are YUMMY! I have tried the vanilla one, gingersnap will be new. But uber messy. I have tried them on a run and while delicious (like a breakfast cookie) it was too messy, fingers too sticky and they made me quite thirsty. I do think it might be a good breakfast option for me before a run so got a couple to try. Likely I will only have half a waffle with my energy gel to test out.

They are very yummy...but way too sticky. They make for a good pre race meal (with some coffee)

I've also done some interesting reading on water. Very interesting article (in Runners World I think) on planned dehydration. It is an article about teaching yourself, a week or so before a race, how to run without taking water in during a race, or less water. I found it interesting as I generally don't take water in. I have been doing it recently as it is kind of beat into your head that you should. But I wonder. It was not an issue when I was not doing it. In the heat, yes it can make sense and in a race, I think it can as well. But I wonder. If I have to stop on a training run for water, I have to really stop, possibly wait in line and drink from a fountain. Not only does that take time but I take in too much water and the whole thing slows me down. Not necessarily in a bad way but it does slow me down. I refuse to carry water (or anything) but I may relook at this on Sunday’s long run and shoot for only one stop, or none, instead of maybe 2. I never get water during anything 9 miles or less anyway so really stopping twice seems overkill.

I think everyone has to do what feels right for them. There are always theories that come out that say "this is the way" or "that definitely isn't the way" You have to do what your body likes and if that involves less water than what some carry then you have to go with it.

Last but most certainly not least we did find out our Corral Assignments!
I was way off. Ann was far more correct. Neither of us had it just right in our guessing, at least in how the redistributed it. They SLASHED the sizes of the first 6 corrals by more than half. The last 4 are quite large. It breaks down like this.

Corral/Total/>Time Required
Elite 28
A 898 >1:50
B 899 >1:55
C 898 >2:00
D 898 >2:05
E 998 >2:10
F 998 >2:15
G 2898 >2:30
H 3548 >3:13
I 2898 >3:25
J 3695

We are in C! I am VERY VERY VERY happy about this. I do not expect to finish under 2 hours. However, I do know I am capable of it if all the stars align and conditions are just right. It is the right corral. Even better is the fact that there are only 1800 people in front of us and only about 900 in our corral. For me, this should not feel much different than the 2 large races I have done, except it is better segregated and in theory my whole group is starting out running the same pace versus a huge spread.

I have not posted to my PTR about our placement. I am just so happy we are in the same corral (even if it means I may be eating some dust for breakfast that morning. ) C is a great place. If for no other reason than we will start just that much earlier and have that much more time running before the sun is up.

That said, I think Corral H is a train wreck. That is something like an 11:30-14:30 mm pace group! Which is a crazy spread, far too big, that one is going to have an ugly first few miles.

It really is! I feel bad for them. I am not sure why RD did this. The only thing I can figure is that those runners are all mid pack and wont' be running as much...maybe more picture stops?

In 24 days, I will be getting on a plane!

In 26 days, I will run through a castle!

GAH! That’s less than 4 weeks!

Yup... lots of catching up to do on dis... at least I am getting closer.

Monday we went for a 3.4 mile walk. I had picked up the new orthotics from the podiatrist and tried them out. They are better than the last round but the left one still seems not quite right. They also seemed too big for my shoe, very hard to get in.

Are they going back then?



[

As sucky as the run was, a friend captured this shot of Jeff and I after the run, at our normal "cool down" spot.



Definitely put a smile on my face

That is an amazing shot!

Thursday we went to the gym. I was NOT feeling the love here either. I wanted to walk. It was hot out and I wanted to be outside. Jeff made me go to the gym (not really, I knew I needed to, I just didn't want to. When I got home, I was on the DIS a bit and Ann mentioned three words in her update. Road Runner Sale. Sure enough I checked and the shoes I had wanted to try, were an additional $20 off. I decided to order them. I also decided to go a half size up and see if that made a difference. They will arrive tomorrow!

Yup, I am an enabler.

Friday we ran. I was supposed to do a 45 min (ish) run again. However, those 3 words were haunting me. Road. Runner. Sale. Both boys needed new shoes. Evan for tennis and Eric for Cross Country. Both really needed to get fitted. We bit the bullet, dragged the E's to the store, got them fitted and into new shoes. MAN their feet have grown. I really really hope these will last the school year but with my luck, probably not. Like me, they have a wicked high arch and need what is called a "stability" shoe.

I hate what a trip to RR does to my wallet ugh.... I cant imagine having 3 at once to take care of.

I will say this, I will NOT be getting the runDisney New Balance shoes (or attempting to) at the race expo. For 2 reasons. One, the model that is likely best for me (Mickey/Minnie), is not the design I like (Cinderella/Goofy).

Ya know...as cute as they are, this is the conclusion I always come to....that they would not be a good fit for me and there for why spend the money. I do have something on my list to get though... I will need it for October for sure so I hope I can snag one. (it is a new haunted mansion sparkle skirt)

But then we went out for a date! MMMMN yum! If it were the night before the race it would have been a perfect pre-race dinner. Grilled mahi with a yummy coconut sauce with rice and yummy peppers. So good. We sat outside, enjoyed the sunset and yes, had wine with dinner. I even did a little wedding stalking for Mary Ellen. Seriously there had to be 4 weddings there that night, which is pretty normal for the weekends according to our server.

First, LOVE that you two do date nights. I think that is so cool!

Second, LOVE that you and Mary Ellen take pictures of other people like that. I am not sure why... but I am drawn to doing so..but never can because my family gets all weird about it.

It was test fuel day. When I got up, after a whopping 5 hours of sleep, I had one of the stinger gingersnap waffles. Quite tasty but more sugar than my system is used to, especially on an empty stomach. Still, it seemed to sit ok. Right before we left the house, I had one of the double espresso gels. I have never tried a gel before. It was actually ok. I liked the flavor and did not mind the texture. I cannot imagine trying to have one mid race but as a pre run item, it was fine. Again, more sugar than I am used to be seemed to sit ok as well. I even remembered to put the bunion cushions on!

This seems like a lot of sugar for you. Normally just coffee in the morning? the waffle and the gel is a LOT.

Drop off took a solid 45 minutes but by 7:40 or so I was at my starting spot and on my way. The first half was great. I had ½ of a shot block about 30 minutes in. I did not feel like I needed it but I knew temps were rising and it was quite humid so it seemed like I should take something. At the turnaround I decided to have a whole block. Pace had been good, not too fast but not too slow, felt just right for the most part and I was pleased with my split time.

A whole block was a BAD idea.

That not used to sugar thing caught up with me. About 10 min or so later I started to feel a bit icky. Not in a I am going to get sick way but definitely in a sugar rush unhappy tummy way. One of the things that runners fear is what is called bonking. That is when you deplete your energy reserves and it’s hard to keep going. While this was not the same, it was what felt like, a sugar crash and had a little bit of the same impact.

I suspect you started out with too much. Also, maybe the blocks are just too much. What about a sport bean? They are little, not sticky, can come with caffeine and taste not too bad. I know in some ways it seems like one bean isn't much at all so why bother, but I am surprised at one what bean per mile will do for me.

I had been planning a water stop anyway, this cemented it. I decided to take a short walk break and see if that would settle things a little. It did not seem to help but it did not seem to hurt either. At mile 9.25 I hit the water stop. I also felt like I needed a bio break, tried, and NOTHING. Seriously annoying. I mean why stop if there is nothing there? Stopping is the worst. Not just because you lose time but you start to cool down too fast which means the sweat just comes ON. Bleh. Running some cool water on my hands felt really good though and I followed that up with a nice drink at the water fountain.

Yucky cool down sweats! Definitely a reason not to stop if you can help it.

I was scheduled to run 13 miles. To me, that seemed silly. If you are going to go that far, might as well make it 13.1! So I did.

Exactly!

And I finished

In the upright position

Nothing tore or bled (although at mile 10 I felt the right bunion cushion totally move up to the front of my foot lol).

I actually felt pretty ok. Still do.

The verdict?

2:15:xx.

That is awesome! All those breaks and a bio break in there? Wow!

I am very ok with that time, especially given all the stops. I was a bit surprised by it to be honest. My split time was much better (1:03:xx) but it felt like I had lost a lot of time stopping. Still, according to my watch, when I was actually running, I was never over the 10 minute mark. That made me happy. Will the actual race be faster than that? Maybe. I do not think it is likely to be slower. Race adrenaline + heat though could equal that exact result, as they may cancel out each other. Not to mention a picture or two. Maybe. We will see. I think the conditions I ran in (63 at the start, 73 at the finish, 80% humidity) were best case scenario for Anaheim at 5:30 - 8am in August. I would be thrilled with less humidity. However I expect it could be warmer and have started the daily check to see where it is landing.

I should start checking too. I think I have been in denial about it. Today though... I survived a 13.1 mile run and it was 75 out when I finished.

Best part? We went to see the Blue Angels after wards, walked quite a bit. Walked again tonight. I should be able to spend some time in the parks after we clean up and eat, and not be limping. A little stiff but that was all. I hope!

I think you and I are both pretty ready. Last week I felt pretty off after the 14 miles...but little did I know I was going to be pretty ill all week. In fact even as of last night I was pretty sick to my stomach. Today though... 13 in the heat and then i went out and put in my 8 hour day on my feet..moving heavy objects. I am not limping either.... so baring something odd... I should be up for parks too. (food first though )

I have one more long run scheduled before the trip, 14 miles. I just realized today that it will be the morning after my 30th HS reunion.
I think I may need to change my schedule that weekend! Then again, what is worse, be a bit stiff and sore at the reunion, or behave at the reunion so I can run 14 miles the next morning?

Oh, that is tough. I think I would do it the morning of. Then you can relax that night. If you planned for the next morning you would have to watch more of what you ate/drank.

Really not sure how I want to approach the fuel situation. I am not convinced any of it made a difference, however with the heat it does seem prudent to do something. The gel did not help me avoid the bio break. But maybe it did and that’s a mental thing too. I have no idea.
I have looked at the race course and if I have to take a bio break, I would like to do it in the parks. Given that we are out of the parks at mile 4 and for the entire rest of the race that will not happen.

There will be fuel around mile 8, right? I bet you will be fine with nothing until then. Maybe bring something just in case, but I think I wouldn't stress about it. Sounds like it isnt something you need. As for the bio break. Parks are better. Course that always means trailing off a bit and that costs time too. I have not done that at any of the FL races just because it made me too nervous. Now, for the phm 2013 I did use a PaP. It wasn't in a bad location though. It wasn't like I had to run off the course. It was right along side it. It seems like even some of the PaPs on course are really just off of it a bit to much for my liking.

I have also looked at the course. Miles 4-8 are running right into the sun. I think my strategy is going to be for a faster first 8, and save my breaks for the back 5 if needed. Not at all what you are supposed to do but I’d like to get out of the sun sooner rather than later. We will start before the sun rises. My guess is we will start at the latest at 5:45. It will likely be earlier as I don’t think they wait a full 5 between corrals, more like 2 minutes. If that is the case, 5:36 start. Ish.

I like this plan...and I always have a hard time avoiding positive splits.

Given that, I started thinking about my water stops. I am thinking it is really going to depend on how warm it is. Ideally I will not stop until the 3rd water stop, at about mile 4.5. I just cannot see needing any before that plus that gets me out of the park before stopping. Given that the sun will not have risen, that may be too early for the first stop. I would like to make it not more than 3 water stops total, so probably will target (mentally) the ones at 4.5, 7.5 and 10.25. It is interesting as there seems to be several stops around the stadium. I am kind of expecting the one before and right after to be more congested and so am looking at the last of the 3 as my target stop. That may not be the case but 3 water stops in basically 1.5 miles is a lot. It is also where folks probably need and want it the most I guess, right after the run straight into the sun part of the course. There is one more after that but I would prefer to skip that one if I can, too much extra fluid will definitely slow me down.

Keep in mind too that water stops can be used for cool down water too. Especially at the ToT, I try to take one to drink and one to dump. Depending on how hot it is this may be my plan for this race too. Course... white tank top. Hmm... I may need to be mindful of that.

Ok, I WANTED something.

So I made something.

More accurately I designed something. Someone else is making it.

It is a headband



It makes me smile.

And it's all mine.

It should ship in about 6 days. I cannot wait to see it.

That is too cute!!!!

Just found this TR! I don't know where I have been! Sounds like your journey to the half is similar to mine with nagging injuries! I JUST decided today I am going to be out there for the DLH weekend. I am gonna try and get to the marathon to cheer you all on!

 

[eandesmom]

I'm glad you were able to get 13.1 in successfully. And with a decent time too. That has got to be very re-assuring for the races coming up.

It was reassuring! One more long one this weekend, I confess I will be glad to have it behind me.

And I like the Tiki Tiki Tiki Run headband.

I am excited for it! I hope I get an update that it has shipped soon, I was hoping to test it this weekend on the 14 mile run.

I'm exhausted just reading about all your activities! Hopefully the boys shoes last longer than the last pairs. Didn't you buy those at the beginning of the TR in progress?

Ugh. Yes, I did. Eric is still squishing into that pair but Evan's are long gone, he probably outgrew those by May.

Sounds like you and Jeff had a lovely night out together. The run is coming up quickly!

We did and AAACK yes it is!

Love the Tiki Run headband!

I thought that was fun

I have been so MIA it isn't even funny!!! I am sorry.

No worries, I am behind everywhere!

Yup... very far behind. See we are much closer now. less than 3 weeks and we leave.

18 days!!!!

Ow is right! I had something slightly happen on my bunion in the last couple weeks... during a run and I thought of you. I can only imagine what yours feels like when it tears. OUCH

Yeah, not fun when it tears

Was that a nice day? I just was so happy to finally have a cooler day to run.

It was a funny one, it actually drizzled at the start and then cleared up. I had a light rain jacket over my tank and ended up tying it around my waist at the turn around.

Looks like those can really be helpful!

I think they helped. I've worn them twice now and am out. I have to decide if I want to get more or go without for the long run this week. The new shoes definitely seem to give me more room up there, we will see how the Weds/Friday runs go but so far, that part has been really good. However both were shorter runs (2 and 2.8 in the new shoes so far).

I love seeing all the pics on facebook of your hikes. We use to do a lot of hiking when the kids were younger. I haven't not been on a good hike in I can't remember how long.

We go through spurts that is for sure. Hiking is my first love, no doubt about it. Just fills my soul. Sounds corny but oh, it's true.

8 mile hike isn't so little.


Ok, so 6.5... but still not so little. .

It was a lovely hike! I think if we'd have added the bit around part of the lake it might have made it 8. 6.5 was about all Evan could manage, it is not his first love these days...plus he was wearing Jeff's old shoes since he had none of his own, and they were a bit too bug.

I think that will work out great! With the head band it will be perfect and very unique!!!

I was really hoping it would get here in time to use for the long run this weekend but I haven't gotten a shipping notification yet and their site doesn't show order status. I just emailed them.

Ok, so you know I am big on taking fuel...doesn't matter if it is a 4 mile run or 14 mile run - I bring along fuel. however i would NEVER use the product this way. 1 to 2 packets per hour? Too much. There are times one of my honey stinger chews is too much. Besides, the shot blocks are just too much for me any way. I find I have to use only half of one rather than a full one.

Half a block works for me. I have cut them into quarters before.

In the winter, when they are on the harder side lol. In this weather, no issues to simply bite half off. LOL!

In an hours run I would probably use 3. For an entire half I probably would use the 6.

6 is way more than I could handle. I don't think I could do 3. I will carry 3 just in case though.

They are very yummy...but way too sticky. They make for a good pre race meal (with some coffee)

They are yummy but, too sweet. I had one before the hike on Saturday and while I like it, it's just too much. As it was a hiking breakfast it was fine as I had other stuff to balance it out but I'm not going to have one before my long run this weekend, or the race. I did find a java gel that has a LOT less sugar than the clif one and tried it before the hike. Definitely going to pick up some more of those both for this weekend and the lake.

I wills say though, one of those mocha gels, half way through the 11 mile hike on Saturday, was AWESOME! LOL.

I think everyone has to do what feels right for them. There are always theories that come out that say "this is the way" or "that definitely isn't the way" You have to do what your body likes and if that involves less water than what some carry then you have to go with it.

I think I will be fine. There are certainly plenty of stops. If I want water at each stop, I will take it.

I have not posted to my PTR about our placement. I am just so happy we are in the same corral (even if it means I may be eating some dust for breakfast that morning. ) C is a great place. If for no other reason than we will start just that much earlier and have that much more time running before the sun is up.

You are so funny, we are likely to finish around exactly the same time. C is a bit fast for both of us to be honest, we probably belong in D but I am happy with it! We should do pretty well on the beat the sun aspect I think. right now is not to far from when we would be finishing (give or take 15-30 min). It's 70 there but high humidity. Sun is barely up though! If that holds, it is doable for sure. Forecast is consistent through the 20th so have to hoo\pe it continues past that!

It really is! I feel bad for them. I am not sure why RD did this. The only thing I can figure is that those runners are all mid pack and wont' be running as much...maybe more picture stops?

I think you will have a huge mix of run, run/walk and walkers in that group. I think the 2:30-2:45 folks should have been broken out as I believe they are probably running more than walking versus the 2:45-3:13 group.

Apparently D was like this last year and they broke into kind of a D1 and D2. I hope they do that for this, or really all of the larger corrals and start it in 2 waves. That would work better.

Are they going back then?

No, at least not yet. I've only waked in them once so far. I will do so again tonight. Now that I have the other shoes I will likely put the Rx ones in my "old" shoes and use them for walking and the gym. We will see how that goes for a couple of weeks before I consider taking them back. The right one felt great, left one a bit off but it may simply not have been positioned in the shoe quite right...or that they need to be trimmed down or my shoes a half size larger.

That is an amazing shot!

It was so cute! She texted it to me as we were leaving, really made me smile.

Yup, I am an enabler.

Yes, but it did save money. Or got the boys better shoes. Or both. LOL!

I hate what a trip to RR does to my wallet ugh.... I cant imagine having 3 at once to take care of.

Yeah, that was not fun at all!

Neither was waiting through 2 fittings. BLEH!

Ya know...as cute as they are, this is the conclusion I always come to....that they would not be a good fit for me and there for why spend the money. I do have something on my list to get though... I will need it for October for sure so I hope I can snag one. (it is a new haunted mansion sparkle skirt)

Fun! I don't really have anything official on my list besides maybe a tee, coffee cup or wine glass if I like what is there but I am looking forward to seeing some of the vendors items. Kind of surprised I have not seen expo pick up emails from a few of them though.

First, LOVE that you two do date nights. I think that is so cool!

EVERYONE should have date nights. It's critical!

Second, LOVE that you and Mary Ellen take pictures of other people like that. I am not sure why... but I am drawn to doing so..but never can because my family gets all weird about it.

Oh you can be subtle about it, I was taking sunset shots!

This seems like a lot of sugar for you. Normally just coffee in the morning? the waffle and the gel is a LOT.

It was a lot. Normally just coffee. Black coffee. I will have stuff later that may have some sugar for breakfast on the weekend (don't usually do breakfast on weekdays) but not before a morning run.

I suspect you started out with too much. Also, maybe the blocks are just too much. What about a sport bean? They are little, not sticky, can come with caffeine and taste not too bad. I know in some ways it seems like one bean isn't much at all so why bother, but I am surprised at one what bean per mile will do for me.

I think it was either starting with 2 much, or the whole block at once. I've been using the same blocks all along and a half is fine. Those beans are sweeter and I am not crazy about the texture. I use the margarita blocks so it's got more of the savory flavor to it, which works well for me.

Yucky cool down sweats! Definitely a reason not to stop if you can help it.

Exactly!

That is awesome! All those breaks and a bio break in there? Wow!

I wouldn't go so far as to say wow. Wow would be not taking all the breaks. LOL!

I should start checking too. I think I have been in denial about it. Today though... I survived a 13.1 mile run and it was 75 out when I finished.

YAY!

I think you and I are both pretty ready. Last week I felt pretty off after the 14 miles...but little did I know I was going to be pretty ill all week. In fact even as of last night I was pretty sick to my stomach. Today though... 13 in the heat and then i went out and put in my 8 hour day on my feet..moving heavy objects. I am not limping either.... so baring something odd... I should be up for parks too. (food first though )

I had no idea you had been sick! Don't over do it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Oh, that is tough. I think I would do it the morning of. Then you can relax that night. If you planned for the next morning you would have to watch more of what you ate/drank.

Yeah, we will see. Right now it really looks like Sunday works better. I will play it by ear but ideally that is when I do it and, bleh, early. I may change my mind though. I just do not love the idea of getting up early on Sat to do it.

There will be fuel around mile 8, right? I bet you will be fine with nothing until then. Maybe bring something just in case, but I think I wouldn't stress about it. Sounds like it isnt something you need. As for the bio break. Parks are better. Course that always means trailing off a bit and that costs time too. I have not done that at any of the FL races just because it made me too nervous. Now, for the phm 2013 I did use a PaP. It wasn't in a bad location though. It wasn't like I had to run off the course. It was right along side it. It seems like even some of the PaPs on course are really just off of it a bit to much for my liking.

I won't use course provided fuel, that would make me nervous and I think it's gel. I can't do a gel while running. Mostly as dealing with the packets and tossing the packet...ugh. Plus it would be too much. Park bathrooms are only in miles 2-4, I won't need one by then if I do. Oh well.

Right now I plan to have a java gel (the new less sugar one I found), or maybe 2 instead of coffee I think and then have 3 shot blocks with me for during. I don't expect to have more than 2 of them during the race but better to have it. I think that will be it.

I like this plan...and I always have a hard time avoiding positive splits.

I tend to do a bell curve. Fast-Slow-Fast(er). LOL.

Keep in mind too that water stops can be used for cool down water too. Especially at the ToT, I try to take one to drink and one to dump. Depending on how hot it is this may be my plan for this race too. Course... white tank top. Hmm... I may need to be mindful of that.

Yeah, maybe. I don't care for feeling wet and after the initial cool down it doesn't feel good so I don't expect to do that. Then again, you never know!

I could see dumping one on my hands though.

 

[Captain_Oblivious]

I'm glad you're pushing through the setbacks and getting close to the goal! Love the Pacific Northwest scenery in your shots. Beautiful!

The Tiki headband made me laugh!

 

[eandesmom]

I'm glad you're pushing through the setbacks and getting close to the goal! Love the Pacific Northwest scenery in your shots. Beautiful!

Ah just wait for this weeks hike!

Oh wait, you saw it on FB. LOL!

The Tiki headband made me laugh!

Me too! Which was the point.

 

[eandesmom]

In 18 days I leave on my trip

In 16 days I am going to run through a castle

16 days!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

GAH!



Last week, I was here:

• JG Finish Upright. Total time: 13.5 hours + long run miles 85.5 (+ 6 magic miles)
• JG Time Improvement. Total time: 20.25 hours + long run miles: 93.84
• My plan. 17.65 hours + long run miles: 107.45
• Total actual time to date: 15.82 hours + long run miles: 100.22

One week later I am here

• JG Finish Upright. Total time: 13.5 hours + long run miles 85.5 (+ 6 magic miles)
• JG Time Improvement. Total time: 20.25 hours + long run miles: 93.84
• My plan. 19.07 hours + long run miles: 113.45
• Total actual time to date: 16.87 hours + long run miles: 103.03

Yeah.
Not impressive numbers at all! Still within my own weird hybrid range of being somewhere but pretty far off of my personal plan.

I wasn't exactly a bum though.

Monday: Walked 3.3 miles

Tuesday: Rest day. Actually to be honest, Tuesday has been piano lesson day for Eric over the summer (pre-summer it was on Monday). Piano is near the cutest wine bar ever with outdoor seating. Jeff and I drop eric at piano, sit outside and have a lovely glass of wine personallyh selected for us, during the lesson. This week his teacher moves to a new location. SOOOOO bummed! In fact, we may have to find a different teacher; it’s just a bit too far away. Going to try it for the rest of this month but neither of us are optimistic.

Wendesay: Ran 4.7. 9:49 pace, not great. It was 80 degrees out though! My new shoes arrived that day. Check them out.



I had come home for lunch, saw they were there, and tried them on. They seemed big. I had gone a half size up so expected some of that but this seemed more.

I went back to work.

Came home, saw them next to the old ones and they looked really wide.

Looked inside the box.

My normal size is a 7.5. I had ordered a 8

These were an 8.5!

The box was right

The invoice was right

The shoes, not so much.

WAH!!!!!



I called the store who quickly expedited a new pair. I was SO bummed, I had planned on wearing them that night. I did my normal run but I spent it being sad about the shoes. I am SURE that it why it was slow. LOL. Not that it was 80 out.

Thursday:We hit the gym.

Friday: I ran 2.1 miles. In my new shoes!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! In the correct size! I would have liked to run more but I had time constraints. It was hot out but it was what I had time for. I tried to do a tempo run given that I didn’t have much time. I managed a 8:48 pace and was quite happy with that. The shoes?



I LOVE THEM!

They are SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO much lighter it isn't even funny. As promised they fit quite similar to the old ones but feel really "springy" in the forefoot. The problem area seems to have a ton more room. Is it the shoe or the extra half size? I have no idea and don’t care. I didn't bother with the cushions and had zero issues. The only issue I can see so far is that the heel is cut a bit differently than my old ones and chafed slightly on one heel. I need to really yank up the back of my sock, or wear a higher cut one.

Saturday: I hiked 11 miles. Eric was finishing a 50 mile hike with his scout troop and another parent and I hiked in to meet up with them on their last leg (and provide return transportation. This was actually a tough call. I had the opportunity for a free bib to run a 10k race on Sunday. I was REALLY tempted to do that. However, doing both was a bit much, even for me. At the end of the day Eric, and hiking, won out.

Not to mention the course did absolutely nothing for me. Still, it seemed like a nice way to test the new shoes and attempt a longer tempo run.

I made the right call.

I would not have missed this for anything!

Check out the hike













This is the other parent who hiked up with me, I did a panorama shot at the
Katwalk, it’s a 360 view all around!





















And check out my kid, at 13, who hiked 50 miles carrying everything on his back!



I am SO proud of him. They had a BLAST.

During the week ran into a young man who just broke the record for hiking/running the Pacific Crest Trail. The PCT runs from Mexico to Canada. This young man did it in 53 days, shattering the record by 6 days. He put in 55-60 miles a day. I cannot comprehend the pace to get that done. He ran all the flat and downhill parts, and walked the uphill parts.

Coolest thing ever?

He graduated from the E's high school!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Talk about an inspiration!

The boys were ahead of schedule, the other parent and I knew lunch wouldn't be there as soon as they were down and elected to finish our hike. I am SO glad I went, it was absolutely incredible.

I don't mind running some of the time.

I even like it occasionally

But hiking? Feeds my soul. In ways I cannot express.

It was a low elevation gain hike, just long in miles. I had SO much fun and the weather was absolutely perfect. I had a couple of freak out moments, I don't do well with the stretches with sheer drop offs on my right side. But conquering those things are part of the process and there wasn't much of it.
I tested some fuel on this. I found a new java gel that has less than half the sugar of the cliff product I tried. I had that in the morning along with a banana, a Greek yogurt and one of the honey stinger waffles. I liked the new one as much as the other and with half the sugar, much better. I will be buying more. On the trail I tried a squeezable applesauce and one of the mocha gels. NO to the squeezable applesauce for sure. A texture thing. I liked it just fine but mid run it would not work. At all. The mocha gel? Mid run no, too sweet and the whole what do you do with an opened sticky packet thing…. But oh, hiking???? I think it was kind of nirvana at about 6 miles in. SOOO good. LOL.

After the hike I met up with Jeff and Kendall for an outdoor alternative rock concert. They had been there since noon, once you went in you could not leave. K and her friend literally stood at the front, in the first row for 9 hours!!!! That is insane. Jeff and I sat on the lawn, ate, had a beer, enjoyed the sun. And the music. Well most of it. One bad band. The rest were pretty darn great! We have pretty eclectic music tastes and it was fun to see smaller up and coming alternative bands. It was a lot of fun. A long day for me!

Sunday: I ran 2:8 miles. The JG plan only called for 4. I had planned for 6. However, the hike had caused a bit of chafing on my left heel from the strap on my Keens. The higher cut heel on the new shoes seemed to add to it a bit and the combination equaled the blister I thought I had gotten on the hike (but never saw) actually opening up. Not bad though. Still, makes me wonder if I need a higher sock. Pace was 9:30. Which, while not remotely what I would like for such a short run, on the heels of the longer hike and a tempo run, new shoes and a bad heel...I was ok with. We had time constraints. I could have tried to squish in another mile and decided I didn’t want/need to. Viewing my heel later, I was glad I did not. That said, ZERO issues in the normal problem area and no cushions again. YAY!

Right now my plan is to stick with the new shoes, wear them Weds/Fri and try them for the 14 miles on Sunday.

Or Saturday.

I have not figured that one out.

I REALLY don't want to get up early on Saturday to run 14 miles. It will mess with the W/F/Su schedule.

However, that night is my 30th HS reunion. There is other stuff in the afternoon. I may REALLY not want to get up and run Sunday morning. Both days have morning time constraints, I'd have to run no later than 8 on Sat (which is my Sat wake up time!) or 7 on Sunday given things later in the day. While I "could"run Sat or Sun afternoon, both are supposed to be warm so the earlier the better. Right now we are actually hoping the weather is cooler and we run later on Sunday, around 10. That should be livable.

Hmmn.

That is it in training news. Are you bored out of your mind yet?

In trip planning news….3 things.

One
I bought our photopass! That always makes things seem more real.

Two
MY HEADBAND ARRIVED!
It is so stinking cute I can hardly stand it









Horrible pictures but end of day bad lighting will do that (not the subject of course lol)

I cannot wait to run this weekend just to test it out!!!! It is quite similar to the Halo one that I like so I have high hopes.

Three
Not for this trip but still Disney race related, Ann and I (and Mary Ellen too!) have figured out our ADR plans for the PHM. Crazy to think the 180 day booking window is less than 2 weeks away!

 

[Leshaface]

All caught up again!

I can't even begin to imagine a pace of 9:49 I'm doing better with my running now. I won't even tell you the pace i'm at, but I feel like my endurance is getting stronger. I'm now running every 3 minutes, walking 2 mins for 40 minutes. That first run was pretty tough but it's getting easier.

Did you say where you got your pants from?

I can't believe how quickly this trip has come up!

 

[KatMark]

LOVE the shoes and the headband, Cynthia.

Your hike looks wonderful...always such beautiful scenery.

Congrats to DS...very impressed with him!

 

[elphie101]

Hooray for new shoes! Sounds like you found yourself a winner in the shoe department.

I must say, hiking is not my thing, but those views are stunning! You really do live in a beautiful part of the country.

I can't believe how close you're getting!! Geeze louise this summer is flying by.

 

[MEK]

Glad you like you new shoes. Every time I saw kicks I get that stupid song stuck in my head. I saw them at the running store and was tempted, but was afraid I would not have the stability that my crazy feet need. Maybe next time. So far I am very happy with the Brooks and the new inserts, so I think I'm good.

Beautiful hike. I know I have said this before, but I can't imagine what it's like to live so close to such gorgeous scenery. I would have to drive hours for that. My trade off is I live so close to so much of the upper Chesapeake bay and its tributaries, but I could use a good switch.

14 miles! You go. I would pick Saturday and get it out of the way.

My map my run and map my ride are linked so when my account said I did 47 miles this week I got confused and momentary thought I had run that far in 3 days. I forgot about my bike ride this week. I can't do another long run until next Weds so I'm working on short ones right now.

Love the head band.

 

[eandesmom]

All caught up again!

I can't even begin to imagine a pace of 9:49 I'm doing better with my running now. I won't even tell you the pace i'm at, but I feel like my endurance is getting stronger. I'm now running every 3 minutes, walking 2 mins for 40 minutes. That first run was pretty tough but it's getting easier.

Pace is really not important at all. Ever, really. All that matters is you are moving and especially at the start it is about time put in, and miles. I think you are doing fabulous!!!!

Did you say where you got your pants from?

I am not sure if I did! They are from Athleta, they are part of their "breathe free" line of knickers. I absolutely love them. I have 2 pairs, these and then a purple flowered one. What I like about them is that they are long enough to help avoid any chafing issues, they are super lights and soft, mesh in key areas (behind the knees) so they breathe super well and they have the best pockets every. One on each side, one in the back (zip) and a small interior waistband one. I like that they are not compression. I wear them for running but also have found they are my favorite gym/cross training pant/short.

For shorter and warmer runs I stick to shorts or skirts (and colder/wetter ones to capri's or tights) but these are definitely the workhorse of my line up.

I can't believe how quickly this trip has come up!

You and me both!

LOVE the shoes and the headband, Cynthia.

Thanks! I am so happy with how the band turned out

Your hike looks wonderful...always such beautiful scenery.

We are very spoiled here. Much as I loved Chicago in certain ways it was really hard to be away from all of this, I am definitely a NW girl.

Congrats to DS...very impressed with him!

Me too!!! Defining moment for those boys.

Hooray for new shoes! Sounds like you found yourself a winner in the shoe department.

I am really happy with them! Need to put more miles on them to know for sure but so far, very good!

I must say, hiking is not my thing, but those views are stunning! You really do live in a beautiful part of the country.

I am definitely a PNW girl to the bone. It's not for everyone though but oh, I love it!

I can't believe how close you're getting!! Geeze louise this summer is flying by.

It is flying by, Evan's HS schedule came in the mail yesterday, I have to start turning in sports forms and paying fees on Monday. Yikes!

Glad you like you new shoes. Every time I saw kicks I get that stupid song stuck in my head. I saw them at the running store and was tempted, but was afraid I would not have the stability that my crazy feet need. Maybe next time. So far I am very happy with the Brooks and the new inserts, so I think I'm good.

LOL! I have that song in a few playlists. It's actually a really messed up song if you listen to the lyrics.

They are still a stability shoe but I think the ones you got are much more stable whereas these are closer to neutral and arguable a bit less stable than my normal ones, the GT 2000. Which asics did you have before? Jeff has the Kayano's but is considering trying the Electro's after seeing mine.

Beautiful hike. I know I have said this before, but I can't imagine what it's like to live so close to such gorgeous scenery. I would have to drive hours for that. My trade off is I live so close to so much of the upper Chesapeake bay and its tributaries, but I could use a good switch.

We are spoiled rotten, no doubt. We have ocean, sound, lakes and mountains all within an hour or less. I am glad I lived in Chicago for 10 years, it really made me appreciate what we have.

14 miles! You go. I would pick Saturday and get it out of the way.

Yeah, I don't think it will fit Saturday. There is a picnic we are supposed to go to. Jeff may decide to blow it off but won't do that until that day. Right now, given the weather has taken a cooler turn, we are planning for Sunday morning but later, closer to 10. That should be fine.

My map my run and map my ride are linked so when my account said I did 47 miles this week I got confused and momentary thought I had run that far in 3 days. I forgot about my bike ride this week. I can't do another long run until next Weds so I'm working on short ones right now.

Love the head band.

Oh how funny! My RunKeeper account used to confuse me that way when I'd have it show the totals for all activities and it would add in the hikes and walks. Now I just have it show the totals for running.

I am considering upgrading my watch to a Garmin 15 so it would import all of that directly. If my bonus is better than expected, maybe that will be my treat to myself. LOL!

 

[Chilly]

Wedding stalking is always fun.

Very cute headband. Have you though about a tutu for your run?

 

[afwdwfan]

I'm glad you got your new shoes... finally. And more importantly that they seem to be helping some of the problems. I do have one question though. You said you went for a 2.1 mile run with them, but did you walk around in them for a while to break them in first? I'd think taking them out of the box and going for a run right away wouldn't necessarily be a good thing.

Also, I completely agree with you about hiking. The story about the Pacific Crest Trail looks like a lot of fun. Mind you, I'm not ever going to dream of attempting 55 - 60 miles of hiking in a week, let alone a day, but that would be amazing to spend a couple of weeks hiking some of those areas.

 

[Woth2982]

Love the new shoes! Asics really make some of the best running shoes out there. I am using Sacony's right now (or however you spell it), and I think they will be retired after this weekend's race. I would retire them now but I can't break in a new pair in 4 days lol. The views from your hike are amazing! I am not much of a hiker, but those views would definitely be a good reason to try it some time!

 

[eandesmom]

Wedding stalking is always fun.

Very cute headband. Have you though about a tutu for your run?

I have thought about it. And decided against it, at least for this race. PHM, maybe. Probably not though.

For a couple of reasons. One, I don't want to run in anything I haven't tested out first on a longer run and I'd feel silly running around here in one. I have seen them at a few races and would consider trying it out at one first. I also don't like the idea of fighting through thru the tutu to get to my pockets (which is a drawback of the ever popular sparkle skirts for me...the whole idea of lifting up my skirt to get to my pocket mid run is not appealing. Last, it will be quite hot and I just envision a soggy limp thing around my waist which doesn't sound fun. LOL!

I am not that "girly" of a girl so that is part of it too, just not sure I am a tutu person!

I'm glad you got your new shoes... finally. And more importantly that they seem to be helping some of the problems. I do have one question though. You said you went for a 2.1 mile run with them, but did you walk around in them for a while to break them in first? I'd think taking them out of the box and going for a run right away wouldn't necessarily be a good thing.

Nope, no walking. General rule is that if it is a new shoe but the same model you are used to they probably don't need any breaking in. These are not the same model but the fit is very similar. To me, a short run is a safe enough way to test them out. I wouldn't take them out for the 14 miler on the first day. Depending on how the next 2 runs go, I hope to wear them for my 14 miles on Sunday but we will see. If it was a different brand I would still likely have done the same to start, short run. But maybe not at tempo pace.

Also, I completely agree with you about hiking. The story about the Pacific Crest Trail looks like a lot of fun. Mind you, I'm not ever going to dream of attempting 55 - 60 miles of hiking in a week, let alone a day, but that would be amazing to spend a couple of weeks hiking some of those areas.

I don't plan to attempt 55-60 in a week either! I can't wait to see the pictures of Eric's trip, it looks spectacular.

Love the new shoes! Asics really make some of the best running shoes out there. I am using Sacony's right now (or however you spell it), and I think they will be retired after this weekend's race. I would retire them now but I can't break in a new pair in 4 days lol. The views from your hike are amazing! I am not much of a hiker, but those views would definitely be a good reason to try it some time!

I tried Saucony's for about a day. My first pair was a Brooks Ghost which is a neutral. They gave me shin splints and I was moved into a stability shoe. I do not recall what Saucony they gave me but it made my calluses go nuts like 1 mile into the run. Just insane. They were "too" stable, I remember the sole just seeming huge. There may well be other models that would work but whatever I tried was a disaster. I've been quite happy with the GT 2000. Jeff uses the Kayano and has been happy with them as well but he is tempted my by Electro's as they are significantly lighter.

New brand and model, no, 4 days isn't enough.

 

[MEK]

LOL! I have that song in a few playlists. It's actually a really messed up song if you listen to the lyrics.

I know! I remember when one of the female contestants did an acoustic version of it on American Idol and the judges slammed her for not taking the lyrics into consideration. Her version was so cute musically and really sounded great but was wrong on so many levels because of the lyrics. That's why I keep getting the words stuck in my head.

They are still a stability shoe but I think the ones you got are much more stable whereas these are closer to neutral and arguable a bit less stable than my normal ones, the GT 2000. Which asics did you have before? Jeff has the Kayano's but is considering trying the Electro's after seeing mine.

I have worn the GT 2000 probably the most. I have had a few pairs of the Kayano's as well. I think theres a 3rd style I have used. My problem was I kept buying them too big because I was putting my insert OVER the shoe insert. Doh! When I tried both those on with the new insert (inserted properly) I just didn't like the feel. The Brooks felt better so I figured why not? I'm sure I will swing back to Asics in the future, but I figured now is a good time to experiment since I'm running more miles.

We are spoiled rotten, no doubt. We have ocean, sound, lakes and mountains all within an hour or less. I am glad I lived in Chicago for 10 years, it really made me appreciate what we have.

That's awesome! We have ocean and bay. That's pretty much it. I don't really consider the poconos mountains.