Conquering Fear (and Some Hills, Too)

So, seven miles isn't particularly long, but it's the longest I've run since my injury back in July, so it was more of a mental hurdle than a physical one.

I accidentally overslept, so I missed GTS this morning, and apparently, some pretty gross weather. Tim only did half of his 13 miler this morning, so offered to join me for an afternoon run.

I mapped out a pretty tough course--through Defoors, Bohler Road, up to West Wesley, down Howell Mill to Collier and up the evil, evil hill at Woodland Hills back down to our neighborhood. Overall, it was a pretty hilly course. Miles 4-5 (West Wesley and Howell Mill down to Howell Mill and Collier) were straight uphill, and then of course, there's my nemisis--Woodland Hills. I didn't run the whole thing, but felt pretty strong, and once we hit the downhills of Chattahoochee, we were flying around 8:00-9:00 minute pace. All in all, a great day. And I enjoyed spending time with Tim, as our running schedules rarely collide.

I also got to try on his Garmin 305, which he ordered me today as my belated Christmas present. I had originally wanted the 405, but after reading reviews, I decided there was more positive feedback on the 305, AND it was over $100 cheaper. I can't wait to start using it for all of my runs!

It's a Chrismakkuh Mircale!

I am not a fast runner. And I hate tempo runs. The only explanation I have for what happened today is a Chrismakkuh miracle!

I set out for my tempo run on the lovely FLAT streets of Flo-town, anticipating a four mile run at 10:15 pace. It was warm (yay!), though quite windy (boo!), and my legs were a bit weary from yesterday's drive (double-boo!). But Tim said to push myself and to run at a challenging pace that I could mantain. As I ran past things that are rare sights during my Atlanta runs (horses, pick-up trucks and W bumper stickers) and noted the various people that have lived in neighborhood houses over the years (among them about a dozen Facebook friends), I thought I was maintaining a 10:00 minute pace. Fast forward to Wedgefield Road, when I knew I was close to three miles into my run. My stopwatch was just past 25 minutes. How was it possible?

As I hit Arundel Drive, I was around 34 minutes and was determined to finish in under 36 minutes, making the run around 9:00 pace. So, imagine my surprise when I went back to the computer to map my run, and the distance was 4.3 miles, meaning I had averaged 8:20 pace! Now, for the Mike Sklar's and Amy Fingerhut's of this world, that pace is pretty normal. But considering even my fastest 10K was run at about 10:00/min pace, this run was HUGE! Probably my best ever, in terms of short distances. Granted, the Flo is extremely flat, so that probably helped my pace, but wow--I actually feel like a sub 55 minute 10K is within my reach.

Hooray for small miracles!

Winter Blues

Is anyone else wondering what month we're in? I wore shorts and a sleeveless shirt for my run yesterday and was sweating like I did back in June. But I love it. I'll take this over the cold, though I would like things to cool off just a wee bit for Christmas.

In spite of the balmy weather, I've had a case of the winter blues. It's been a pretty tumultuous year, and I think I'm just ready to take a break, relax and enjoy some quiet time.

Thankfully, running is one of the few things I'm energized about, so yesterday, I tried my first non-track speed workout. I mapped out a 400 meter route on Defoors Avenue, which is relatively flat. It was strange to run full out on curvy sidewalks (all while dodging trash cans, low-hanging limbs and the occasional car), but it was fun, and a good way to get out all the pent-up aggression I had from my sketchy internet service yesterday.

I was supposed to run each split between 2:15 and 2:30 minutes, but it was hard to stay in that range, even when I pulled back. My splits were 2:07, 2:08, 2:12, 2:22, 2:18 and 2:08. Those times give me hope that I can achieve my goal of running a sub 55 minute 10K in the early months of 2009.

I needed a challenge, plus I'd love to have a chip for the Peachtree this year. I've always been a slow and steady runner, but I've learned over the past eighteen months that I can do many things I thought I was incapable of before. It's also easier to set time goals for 10K's than half or full marathons, simply because TNT is so team-oriented, and I don't see myself leaving my friends in the dust just to run a few minutes faster (though I do hope to finish the ING under 2:15).

I've set my sights on the Chatthoochee Challenge on February 7. Tim's planning on running it with me, and I find that as with all things in life, I'm better and faster with him by my side.

Advent

It's ironic that my training season begins in advent--the season of waiting. Because if you know anything about me, you know that I am anything but patient. Base miles can feel like drudgery, and the ten thousandth singing of "O Come, O Come Emmanuel" just doesn't ring as sweet.

So here I am, in the early days of December, laying the foundation for later rewards, of both the physical and spiritual variety. Time will tell...

Sigh...

Today was a bad running day. As in, I didn't want to run, I was sore, tired, wheezing, sluggish and generally defeated. Did I really run a great 10K six days ago?

At least the weather was beautiful, and I had great tunes.

Rain Rain Go Away

One of my responsibilities as team captain is to help coordinate our Saturday morning training sessions, aka GTS. This task involves getting up closer to my normal bed time than awake time, so I was surprised that when my alarm went off at 5:45am, I was actually awake. And kind of perky. Sans coffee, which I really don't drink.

I'm so grateful for all of my volunteers, who gave up a Saturday morning--in the rain, on a holiday weekend, no less--to provide fluids and support for all of the brave runners who came out to run this morning.

TNT relies almost entirely on volunteers, and this Saturday morning was no exception. It's amazing to me how much time people give to this program. It's not a one-event affair. People continue to give of their time, training for events, raising large sums of money, volunteering for water stops, coaching and mentoring others, week after week, season after season, year after year--all so one day, our friends and family won't experience first hand the devastation of cancer. And I'm grateful to be just one small cog in the wheel.

I was so inspired, that even after spending four hours in the rain (with shelter, thank goodness!) and slogging five gallons of water and Gatorade to and fro, I went for a short run myself, thankful that I could.

Gobble Jog

Since I wasn't able to do the Thanksgiving Half as I had planned, Jaclyn suggested that we run the Gobble Jog 10K in Marietta on Thanksgiving Day. I was really nervous about the event, because I really only got back into running at the beginning of November. But I needed a challenge, and if I couldn't do the Half, I could at least do some kind of run.

And so, Tim, my parents and I braved the cold and met up with Roger and Jaclyn in Marietta yesterday morning. The 10K started at 8am, and even though I was a bit stiff, I felt great and was able to power through all of the hills. My goal was a 1:05, a bit slower than my PR last March, but still, a bit of a stretch, considering my runs have been consistently at 10:30 pace.

But, I was feeling great, and while coasting downhill after the two mile marker, we somehow lost Roger and Jaclyn. When Tim and I crossed the halfway point at 32 minutes, I knew I had a shot at besting 1:03. We pushed hard over the last three miles--I even overcame some shortness of breath around mile five--and took the last mile really quickly and finished at 1:02:03!

I really needed this. My confidence has suffered since my injury, and I was worried about how long it would take me to get back on track with my training. My first week back was miserable. But having prepped for a 10K--a PR, no less--in less than a month makes me confident that I can run the ING Half Marathon well.

I've never enjoyed running more and am thankful for running--among many other things--this holiday weekend.

Neither Rain nor Snow...

Okay, so at least it wasn't snow, but I did run in the rain today. Sursprisingly, in spite of the pouring rain and my two white shirts (albeit it with a very thick, supportive sports bra underneath them), I got only two honks for my effort. I think rain plus white shirts should at least ellicit five honks, even if only for my sheer dedication to the sport.

It was a lonely run through West Midtown today, but I enjoyed the solitude. And I'm starting to frighten myself by my own dedication. 20 degrees? No problem. Rain? Bring it. What's next--a snowstorm? Maybe--IF someone gives carte blanche at the Big Peach.

The Big Chill

You know you're dedicated to running when you head out the door for GTS (general training session) when the thermometer reads 22 degrees. Yes, I know, spring weather to my friends above the Mason-Dixon line, but that's pretty cold around these parts. Especially for someone like me, who needs a sweater when the temp dips below 75!

For some reason--and maybe I'm discovering that fall is my season, or because I'm grateful I'm in a much better place in my life than I was last fall--I'm embracing the cold. Granted, I'd prefer it to be a bit warmer than 22 degrees, but I managed to get my lazy butt out of the cold bed and make the trek up to Big Peach.

I'm so proud of my team, since pretty much all of them did likewise. I was so impressed, I picked up $5 Starbucks gift cards (thanks, Starbucks!) for my Country Music Marathon posse. It had warmed to about 30 degrees by the time we started out--Jaclyn and I ran in our matching Nike jackets (pic to follow), and I did a quick two miles so I could get ready for Carolyn's baby shower. I can't believe Hansen bebe number four will be here in just a few weeks! It seems like yesterday I found out she was pregnant.

And Carolyn, being the resilient, dedicated woman that she is--has expressed an interest in running Nashville with us--hooray for the Alaska team!

Holy Hills!

Today, I finally found a route in my new neighborhood that I enjoyed--well, at least I did, until I hit the ginormous hill on Cross Creek Parkway! Look at the picture--this neighborhood looks completely innocuous. And it is--for about a quarter of a mile. And then an evil, evil hill--half a mile straight up--20% grade in some points (yes, I am a dork--I track the elevation at MapMyRun.com).

And it rivals some of the worst hills on the TNT courses--Londonberry, which is about 1.3 miles, but a much steadier climb, no worse than 10% grade--and the dreaded Johnson Ferry Road, which has a similar 20% grade, but is spread out over nearly a mile.

With the exception of that hill, the course was great--rolling hills, good neighborhoods, lots of sidewalks. I did about five and a half miles at 10:40 pace--my longest run in over four months!
I'm glad I'm getting into longer distances, because I get to explore the environs beyond Chattahoochee Avenue and Defoors Ferry. However, I need to remember to eat more, or at least take refreshments with, because I started to get lightheaded about 20 minutes in and was very, very tempted to stop into the Figo on Collier Road and beg for some bread!

Springing Forward!

It's hard to believe, but yesterday was the first GTS of the Spring Season! I must admit, I've enjoyed sleeping in every Saturday morning for the past few months, but Saturday, I was surprisingly awake and happy to resume the GTS ritual. Here's a picture of the spring coaches and captains. I love our new "Dig It" tees--of course, I can't seem to escape the purple. First Furman, now TNT!


I had a great run with Roger and Jaclyn, which brought back so many memories from last fall. It was a really difficult time in my life, and those Saturday morning runs brought me some much needed peace and relief. So I'm thrilled that Roger and Jaclyn are running Country Music with the team--and our old captain, Chuck, was there to document the reunion.

Even better, Jaclyn and Roger will be there to support me during my comeback race--the Marietta Gobble Jog on Thanksgiving Day. It's a 10K, which I think I can manage, even after only two weeks running again. I had a great 4.5 mile run last week and hope to tackle 5 or 5.5 tomorrow morning.

I love running and am so grateful that it's part of my life again!

Back on Track

Nothing is more humbling than running, especially after a long hiatus. Last week marked my first full-time foray into running since my injury back in July. And it was not a good week, especially given the fact that any possible route I take from my new home requires me to run almost one mile straight UPHILL. Add in cooler weather, which only aggravates my asthma, and it made for some challenging runs. As in, difficult to run three miles, which in a previous lifetime had been a mere warmup. I was starting to feel extremely nervous about the Nashville season--how could I lead my team when I was struggling to run three miles?

And then, this afternoon-a breakthrough! Buoyed by the bright, sunny day and my power breakfast of bagel with peanut butter (for fuel) and bacon (for good luck), I conquered the hills of Ellsworth Industrial, Chattahoochee Avenue and Collier Road with strength and confidence. The perfect prelude to tomorrow night's TNT Spring Season Kick Off (and the fabulous Angela Hansberger's birthday!).

Dreams

It was a bittersweet weekend for me. While a dozen or so of my friends tackled my dream--running the Chicago Marathon--I struggled to run consecutively for five minutes. It's hard to believe I lost a quarter of a year from my injury, especially when I'd trained so hard and was finally feeling confident in running long distances. It's hard to start at the beginning, to struggle with running what could easily be a warm-up.

But, I'm enjoying the time outdoors, the ability to walk normally again and the great fall weather. There's always next year, right?

Nashville Bound!

To my faithful readers, Julie and Tim (and anyone else who happens to drop in from time to time), welcome back!

After a thirteen week hiatus due to a metatarsal stress fracture and related recovery time, I am back in my running shoes! Exactly thirteen weeks to the day after my injury, I rounded up my favorite border collie and headed out for a two-mile run/walk, with two minute running intervals followed by five minute walk intervals. And I couldn't have picked a better day for running. Sunny, slightly breezy, absolutely zero humidity--made me feel even a bit happy I'd missed running during most of the brutal Atlanta summer.

The moments of running were pure bliss. After being trapped in the surgical support boot and banned from all weight-bearing activity for nearly a quarter of the year, even the walking was pure joy.

As if that joy weren't enough, I found out that very same day that I will be the captain of the Atlanta TNT Country Music Marathon and Half Marathon Team! I am so excited! Mentoring Alaska was great fun, and this time, I will get to be the social director for the group, as well as the liason for our mentors and our honored patient hero. I can't wait to meet the rest of team and help them meet their fundraising and training goals! And while I won't actually get to run the marathon, I'll be out on the course all day, cheering on TNTers from across the country and running alongside all of our team members! I'll probably run the equivalent of a full marathon during that time period, just in smaller bursts!

Training starts officially in November, which is about the time I'll be up to 3 and 4 miles. Perfect timing! And I think a lot of my Phoenix and Alaska teammates will be joining the Nashville gang, so it's going to be a great group!

Also, I'm so grateful to those of you who supported me--I've raised about $3,000, which will go on hold for a marathon next fall, since TNT will pay my way to Nashville.

I'm excited to start my marathon journey again and am glad I'm working with a great Pilates trainer (the fabulous and newly engaged Rachel Breault!) and nutrionist to help me along the way.

Go Team!

Swimming--Not Just Child's Play

So, after yesterday's fiasco, I was determined to go for a swim today. The sky looked threatening, but I took a chance and ventured over to the Garden Hills Pool around 4pm for a pool workout. I hate working out indoors (with the exception of yoga and Pilates), plus swimming is completely non-impact and has the added bonus of providing a cool environment in which to exercise.

I worried that the pool would be overrun with kids, but it has a lap lane, which was blissfully unoccupied for the majority of my workout. I did 15 minutes of laps--alternating freestroke and backstroke--followed by 15 minutes of pool running (with the help of a weighted vest, which probably looked silly, but I was so excited to be doing something resembling running, I didn't care) and another 15 minutes of laps.

I practically lived in the pool as a child, but somewhere along the way, I lost my love for the water. It probably had something to do with the fact that swimming requires a bathing suit and makes my hair turn green and the consistency of straw.

Today, I reveled in the cool water and the respite from the Atlanta heat. And what a workout it was--I could barely lift myself out of the water when I was done, and my arms and shoulders hurt as I type. I probably got in a good half mile (who knows--maybe there is a triathalon in my future?!?) and felt like I do after a two hour run.

I think it's definitely something I'll add to my cross-training repertoire even when I can start running again.

Glass Half Full

Since I've been mopey and cranky about not being able to train (especially tonight, when I wanted to get a swim in and discovered that NO ONE in my condo building knows the code to the pool, then drove all the way to the Garden Hills pool to discover that non-members are denied access after 5pm), I've decided to take note of the positive things about NOT running for two months:

1. I can sleep late on Saturday mornings for the first time in nearly a year.


2. No more Friday night bagel runs to Einstein's and no more of that gross onion/cinnamon/garlic hybrid bagel smell in my car.


3. I don't have to run the entire month of August--arguably, the hottest month of the year.


4. Significantly less laundry, which means I'm doing my part to conserve water during this neverending drought.


5. I'll have to buy one fewer pair of running shoes this year, a savings of $90.


6. Significantly fewer impulse purchases at the Big Peach.


7. I can drink as many margaritas as I want on Friday nights.


8. I get a reprieve from the smell of Body Glide as it warms.


9. I actually have time to see my non-running friends.


10. No more getting up at 6am to beat the heat for Monday morning track workouts.


11. More time in the pool. And more even tan lines!


12. Did I mention Friday night margaritas?

Broken Bone, Broken Dreams

So, it appears that my Chicago journey is over almost as soon as it began. A trip to the podiatrist last week confirmed my suspicion--I have a metatarsal stress fracture, which requires six to eight weeks to heal as well as the addition of this sassy shoe to my wardrobe. Definitely my preferred footwear for 90 degree days!

I guess three half marathons in six months was too much for my poor feet, with their sassy bunions and hammertoes, both of which put more stress on my mid-foot. It's totally ironic that as soon as I became more accepting my new marathon-strong body, it broke down on me. And I know that I can't change the past, but I can't help wishing I'd had more calcium in my diet before age 21, that I had a more balanced, healthy diet even now and that I hadn't wasted my early 20's so consumed with what I looked like that I denied myself basic fuel and did irreparable damage to my body, and quite possibly my bones.

But I'm also looking forward. I'm wearing my "Kisses for Kate" bracelet, which reminds me that this is a minor setback, a drop in the bucket compared to what little Kate is going through--over two years of leukemia treatment, robbing her of innocence and a normal childhood. And while I can't run, I can do other things to keep my body strong, and I can continue in my quest to make healthier choices that will hopefully keep me running twenty years from now.

In the meantime, you can find me hobbling around in my Storm Trooper boot!

Sidelined

Ah, injuries. Pretty much standard for any marathoner. I'm lucky, in that I've been injury-free since last November, so it was only a matter of time before my body said "Hey! Enough! I need some rest!"

Perhaps it was a bit ambitious of me to dive into speedwork the day my plane touched the ground in Atlanta post-Anchorage, but running is addictive. It's hard to stop, especially with the training schedule taunting me on my refrigerator, and the knowledge that the hard work I've put in over the past three months has made me a stronger, faster runner. But I'm a firm believer that like colds, injuries are nature's stop signs, warning us to slow down before we do some serious physical harm.

Post-Peachtree, I managed a difficult speed workout (see previous post) and a brutal seven mile tempo run (courtesy of myself--there's a reason I avoid the Deering to Northside route!), then found my right foot searing with pain. The cause? Metatarsalgia, which is loosely translated as "pain at the top of the foot." Or, "it feels like someone dropped a table on the top of my foot, and it's hard to walk!" An overuse injury, probably not helped by my less-than-aesthetically pleasing feet (bunions and hammertoes, anyone?) or my high heels and flip flops, which Penelope berates us for in every single Pilates class. So, I made like a middle-aged woman and started wearing running shoes everywhere, including around the house in my underwear and pj's. And guess what--my feet feel better!

So, it's running shoes for me, with the exception of special occasions. I'm hoping I can get in an easy run mid-week, and then catch up to my schedule with a long run on Saturday.

In the meantime, you can find me padding down my hallways in my sneakers...

All in the Timing

This afternoon, I broke down and bought a sports watch. I don't even wear a regular watch (I can usually guess the time within ten minutes, plus, a watch doesn't really go with my carefree lifestyle), but I've been mooching off Tim's Garmin for far too long (Mom and Daddy, if you're reading, you know what to get me for my birthday this year!). That, and I'm now in week two of official Chicago training, and since my paces are a bit slower than his, I'm going to need something a bit reliable and more portable than my iPod, which seems to die about an hour into my workouts. This Timex Ironman watch can store up to 30 laps (and I pray I never need that many!).

Of course, I had to get TNT purple (well, lavender, really), and it worked pretty well for my track repeats today. I did 4 x 800 meter repeats at 9:16 pace. A strenuous workout in this heat. I was feeling nauseous in the end, about how I was feeling after running up Cardiac Hill during the Peachtree and smelling Mexican food (I love my El Azteca, but it is the worst possible thing to smell while running and hot). It was 90 degrees tonight, even at 6:30pm. Of course, I still prefer the heat to the cold.

Wednesday, it's a seven mile tempo run, followed by a fourteen miler on Friday, so I can enjoy Melissa's wedding in the Flo on Saturday. I'm stockpiling cheesy 80's music on my iPod, so feel free to send me your suggestions!

Peachtree!

For the seventh year in a row, I spent my 4th of July morning with 54,999 of my closest friends in the annual sprint down Peachtree Street. My past few Peachtrees have not been pleasant--I'd always run out of steam around mile four or five and in general, felt pretty unprepared. It's hard to believe, but last year, I didn't run a single mile in June.

This year, Team Bacon (aka, me and Angela), back from a successful half marathon in Alaska, took to the course with much energy and enthusiasm, passing and being passed by some of our fave TNTers--Beth, Mike, Maria, Natasha, Drea, Joanna, among many others. My dad (6o next month!) kept up with us until the end. I finished in just over an hour, a good twenty minutes faster than I did last year. And it felt fun. Remind me again why I don't stop with 6.2?

I then enjoyed lots of sangria and yummy grilled food and plenty of queso, courtesy of my sister and Brian. A happy 4th indeed.

Can't Kick This

When Angela and Craig first mentioned the kickball league to me, I thought they were crazy. I hate group sports. I'm the girl who ducked if a ball was thrown my way in gym class or on the playground. And the one who feigned cramps to get out of softball, basketball and every possible sport in gym class back in high school. Yes, I run marathons, but I also trip walking down the street.

But I decided to give it a try, recruiting friends from all across Atlanta. Meet "Kickin' It Old School," as in, it's been a long time since third grade kickball, and we probably weren't star players back in the day, with the exception of maybe Marc, Mike and Tim, who valliantly covered the outfield (among other positions) and at least gave us a chance to kick. And props to Team Hansberger and Mike for scoring our three runs, because 16-3 sounds a lot better than 16-0.

And in spite of the fact that I caught maybe two balls and never reached base, I was more sore this morning for speedwork than I was after my half marathon. Does kickball count as crosstraining?

Runners' High

It's hard to explain what it feels like to finish a half marathon. It's simultaneously exhausting and exhilarating, and I can imagine the marathon will be even more so.

I think what was different about my Alaska run is that I actually enjoyed the race. It was a serene, meditative route, and being immersed in all that nature gave me time to contemplate not only the "how" but the "why" of running. The how? All the speedwork, the tempo runs, the long runs, the early mornings, the oppressive heat, the dirty laundry, the blisters, the aches and pains, all of which made me stronger and more prepared and no doubt had an impact on my time. And yet, over the past few months I've been unappreciative of the changes my body has undergone as it's gotten stronger and better prepared for tackling long distance running. Instead of thanking my quads and gluts for getting me through my long runs, for helping me run paces I never dreamed possible, I've cursed them for not fitting neatly into my size 0 pants. I can't say that I'll never do that again, but after last weekend, I will certainly think twice before I heap abuse on myself for being strong, fit and healthy, probably for one of the first times in my adult life.

The "why" is obvious--Sarah, Kate, countless others whose lives have been affected by leukemia and lymphoma--the fact that simply putting one foot in front of the other and asking my friends and family to support me along the way can lead to something as huge as $4.4 million raised for a single event. But the "why" is now informing the "how"--how grateful I am to have a healthy body that can carry me through 13.1--and I hope, eventually, 26.2--miles, and how petty it seems to complain about my jeans not fitting when others are too weak to get out of bed, let alone run. And I hope to honor my body better in the days going forward--not only with my training, but with healthy food and thoughts.

"Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God?"

-1 Corinthians 6:9

Alaska!

This is why we run. Why we've logged over 500 miles in the past few months, sacrificed time with friends and family, done load after load of dirty laundry and spent Saturday after Saturday in all kinds of Atlanta weather, from tornadoes to thunderstorms to 95 degree heat. For Kate. For all the Kates in our lives, past, present and future.

And so, our Georgia Chapter, along with nearly a thousand other TNTers from across the country and Canada, set out on the 13.1 and 26.2 mile courses in the chilly Alaska rain last Saturday morning. And look at all the smiles!

Once we got started, it warmed up a bit. We were treated to a not-so-scenic view of the Anchorage airport, followed by gorgeous trails through the Alaskan forest, complete with views of the Pacific Ocean. I ran most of the way with Angela (aka "bacon") and Carolyn (Kate's mom), who is SIXTEEN WEEKS PREGNANT! And she was amazing--strong and positive as always, knowing that with each step, she's making the world a little better for Kate, Ava, Jackson and little baby boy Hansen. And what a cool thing to hear from your mom one day--I ran a half marathon when you were sixteen weeks old!

I don't have any pictures of the finish (though I'm sure to get some from friends as they drift back into town), but this Southern girl got a bit chilly post-run, so much so that my lips turned bright blue. The sweet ladies at the Starbucks at the Anchorage Hilton hooked me up with some hot chocolate when we got back to the hotel, and I enjoyed a warm shower (shhh--don't tell Coach Tommy!) and checked up on all my friends and mentees through the online results. I finished in 2:22:47 (a personal record!), Nicole in 2:39, Sarah and Tommy (who took pictures the entire way!) at 2:50 and Shay around 3:15.

I can honestly say it was the first time I enjoyed a half marathon. I guess the third time is the charm. I really feel like my training has helped, and it was simply inspirational to run with Carolyn. I flew back into Atlanta at 7am yesterday and was back on the track less than 12 hours later. And I'll keep running until there's a cure. It's the least I can do.

One More Day!

I can't believe I'm finally in Alaska! It seems like only yesterday that I signed up to mentor this season, and here I am, with the whole team, here in Anchorage and ready to run! Especially after consuming an entire plate of pasta and sitting down for two and a half hours at our dinner tonight. Carolyn wants to run in under two hours. A few months ago, I would've said that would be impossible, given that it's taken me two and a half hours to finish the previous two halfs. But I have faith and confidence and in the end, it's not about me or my time, but about something so much bigger than myself.

Today I learned that there are nearly 1,000 Team in Training participants in tomorrow's marathon and half marathon. Collectively, we raised $4.4 million dollars. For just one of the dozens of TNT events this season. Every gift--no matter how small--matters, because in the end, it's about what we do as a team. And that every Saturday across the country, thousands of people get up early in the morning, run mile after mile in every condition imaginable, so that someone else--maybe a family member, maybe a friend and maybe even a complete stranger--can live and live well. Miraculous in and of itself.

Today, we donned our hot pink shirts (even the guys, because, as we all know, real men wear pink!) that say "Kisses for Kate." And I will be thinking of her and of my teammate Sarah--who just a year ago, had lost her hair and was weak from chemotherapy, and tomorrow, will be crossing the finish line--and all of those who run so they and others like them can live long and happy lives. I am truly blessed to be a part of this program, to have a chance to do something small to make the world a better place for someone else. GO TEAM!

Will Run for Food

Sometimes I think I run for the food. Or at least I did tonight. It was 95 degrees, and the last thing I wanted to do was run down to the track, especially when I pass two Mexican restaurants on the way. I pretend to feel superior to the masses downing pitchers of margaritas and shoveling down the chips and salsa, but truth is--I'm slightly jealous.

But, Powerade in hand and cute man by my side, I braved the heat and headed down to E. Rivers. It was actually a really great workout--4 x 800's (with an extra 200 thrown in because two bachelors' degrees, two masters' degrees and an almost Ph.D. do not equal the ability to count to two!) at 9:03, 8:55, 9:15 and 9:05 paces.

We walked home leisurely and feasted on an excellent dinner of "Triple Jump Pizza," courtesy of Runner's World and Chef Tim. And a big glass of 2 Buck Chuck, of course.

Countdown to Peachtree

Since this morning marked exactly three weeks prior to the Peachtree Road Race, I thought I'd take the opportunity to do a tempo run on the second half of the course. Because of the drought, the race won't end in Piedmont Park, which is kind of sad, because in the six years I've done the race, we've always ended in the park, right at Charles Allen Drive and 10th Street. This year, it will end at Juniper and Ponce.

So, I headed from my place down 25th Street and fifteen subsequent blocks on Peachtree--enduring honking, leers from countless construction workers and dangerous intersections with closed sidewalks. Not exactly the same feeling as race morning. Plus, it was hot (though significantly less so than earlier in the week), and I didn't have any water.

The new route isn't bad--a few rolling hills, but it just seemed anti-climactic. Maybe that will change come race day.

All in all, I got in a five mile tempo run at about 10:30 pace, which is pretty good considering I had to stop at about five intersections and wait for lights to change.

This week also was the start of my Alaska countdown! Six days until we leave (really five, as I'm posting after midnight!). I found out this week that two of my mentees--Sarah and Shay--were the top fundraisers on the Alaska team. All in all, my four mentees raised over $25,000--real money that supports real people in need. I love feeling a part of something bigger than myself and can't wait to cross the finish line in Anchorage next weekend!

Early One Morning

I am NOT a morning person. Most days--with the exception of Saturdays--I roll out of bed around 10 or 11am. I prefer getting my runs in during late morning or early evening, which is pretty much impossible now that the temperature has been cresting 85 long before noon. So, the choices are to deal with the heat and accompanying misery or wake up early. This morning, I chose to latter.

The alarm went off at 6am. I ate my breakfast of champions (Trader Joe's peanut butter on a plain mini-bagel) and met Tim at 6:30am for our weekly track workout. We jogged the 1.5 miles down to the track at E. Rivers, where the PRUMC bootcampers--including my old choir buddy, Matthew--were already hard at work. We did 20 x 100's, with 100 meters of walking in between each lap. It was a nice change not to have the sun blaring down on us or to deal with the scores of children wandering on and off the track. We averaged 5:45 pace for the 100 sprints and decided to break our lazy habit of walking up Cardiac Hill, which we tackled at a decent pace--in spite of lethargic legs--and finished up the stretch from Collier Road to 26th Street at a pace a bit under 9:00. These workouts give me so much confidence in my strength and endurance, reminding me a bit of my inner tomboy, who proudly bested both the 2nd and 3rd grade classes--boys included--in sprints across the schoolyard in Texas.

Dog Days

I've been both a running and a writing slacker. It's just been one of those weeks. And a little too soon for me to invoke the "pre-race taper" clause, as it's still two weeks until Alaska.

I started to feel guilty yesterday, so headed out around 11am for a short run with Zoe, my loaner puppy, and the cutest border collie in the world (picture at right in a much more relaxed state!). We did a short two miler through Brookwood, including one of my least favorite hills in Atlanta--Brighton Road--which I don't think Zoe was too fond of either. It was fun outing for both of us, and Zoe crashed for the day.

This morning was another eight miler, and yet another hot, humid day. But the time passed quickly. The team ran together for the first three miles, and then I ran with Lindsey, who is Kate's teacher. That shows you just how much Kate has touched people's lives. And given that I lost my grandmother last week, at the ripe old age of 91, I wish for Kate and all those like her long, happy and healthy lives and will keep lacing up my running shoes until we find a cure.

14 Miles...and a Party for Kate!

Days like today are why people hate Atlanta. When I woke up at 6:30am, it was already 75 degrees with 89% humidity, with temperatures expected to climb to 90 degrees. Not ideal conditions for running fourteen miles, but mentally, I was prepared. And running is as much--if not more--a mental challenge as it is physical. Hell, I was in such a good mood I participated in "dynamic stretching," even while the Chicago and Nike Womens' teams looked on in amusement.

I don't know if it was the Figo pasta or tiramisu or both, but I had a phenomenal run. Probably the best long run of my life. It was certainly easier than both of my half marathons and gives me hope that I have a marathon in my future.

Oh, and the Nike "core cooler" top I scored for 30% off last week at the Big Peach? Pure heaven. I didn't feel hot or sweaty AT ALL. The shirt comes in nine colors and don't think I'm not tempted to buy every single one. I know it kept me cool and dry when most of my teammates were having a really hard time with the conditions.

Today was also Kate's big birthday party. And no birthday is complete without Hello Kitty paraphernalia, including press-on tattoos, birthday cake, decorations, coloring books and more.

And doesn't Kate shirt just say it all? I most definitely am inspired.

Preparation!

I've taken it pretty easy this week in preparation for tomorrow's run--14 miles-- which will be the longest run I've ever done. I had a fun, social running week. A tough speed workout with Tim on Monday, the Chicago Team run out of the Big Peach on Wednesday and a nice four miler with Katie, my Phoenix mentor, yesterday around Atlanta Memorial Park, which has to be one of the flatest loops in all of Atlanta. Thank you, Katie!

Preparing for a long run means no drinking or staying out late on Friday nights (sorry, Christy and Colin--you know how much I love my margaritas at El Azteca, especially since it's within walking distance on my place), downing lots of water, going to bed early (of course, since I usually don't get in bed until after 2am, "late" is generally anything before 1am!) and carbo-loading. Which, of course, means Figo! Tim and I hit the original Collier Road location last week, and this week, I got take out from the Howell Mill restaurant. Fusilli with arrabbiatta, which is my absolute favoite sauce. And tiarmisu, just because if you're going to spend nearly three hours running the next day, it's nice to indulge in a yummy dessert.

I picked out a great present for Kate at Swoozie's, which has been kind enough to employ me on more than one occasion when I've needed the extra cash. Kate officially turned six today, but we'll be celebrating with a big party tomorrow after our run. I can't wait! And a definite reminder of why I'll be running those fourteen miles tomorrow. Nothing I go through as a runner can compare to spending your kindergarten year in and out of the hospital, getting chemo treatments, losing your hair and become all too familiar with needles and blood. And her fighting spirit is what gets me through days like tomorrow and the reason I continue to pile on the miles in the hopes of finding a cure.

Chicago Team!

Tonight, I had my first run with some of my new Chicago teammates. It was fun to meet everyone, especially since I won't be able to join them for training until after Alaska.

It was another run from the Big Peach--three miles this time, and I was lucky enough to run with Barb, our coach, who also coached Disney, so I trained with her throughout the fall. It also means she (clearly a blonde with more common sense than myself) can read the maps. In fact, she is so cool, she doesn't need maps! It was a nice, easy run, in spite of the humidity and hills and wouldn't you know that the first person I found myself talking to was Sally Corbett, a PR guru over at Arts at Emory, and someone I worked with frequently at the ASO, though we had never met. I love the small world that is Atlanta, TNT and the performing arts community.

We retired to a local pizza place (not a fan, so I won't mention it by name!) and had great conversation. What never ceases to amaze me about TNT is how all of these really great people--all with families and jobs and busy lives outside of running--devote so much time and energy to TNT. Not just to the running, but to the mission, to the patient heroes, to changing lives. It's also a reminder of one of my favorite quotes:

Never doubt that a group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever had.
-Margaret Mead

TNT started twenty years ago with one man and his friends running the New York City Marathon in honor of his daughter, a leukemia survivor. That small group raised over $300,000 for its local LLS chapter. Now, our chapter can raise that from a single event. But it all started with a small group of people who wanted to make a diffence in the lives of others, much like those I am blessed to know and train with every week.

Field Day

Ah, Memorial Day. Time for lounging by the pool, sipping daiquiris and general laziness and debauchery.

Or, if you're me--a marathoner in training--a perfect day for speed workouts at the elementary school track! Tim and I headed off around noon (which is what happens if you sleep until nearly 11am!), and the thermometer read 83 degrees. I got a bit of an arm workout lugging my 20 ounces of Powerade the 1.5 miles to the track, most of which we ran at a comfortable 10:30 pace.

We were the sole people on the field, which is probably because of the aforementioned facts that it was 1) Memorial Day, 2) 83 degrees outside and 3) noon. It was a nice change to have the track to ourselves, as we're used to running in the early evenings and dodging children, strollers and stray soccer balls.

I actually enjoy track workouts because they're over quickly. However, today we did the longest speed run I've ever done--3 x 1M. Four laps around the track equal a mile--which is a pretty long distance to run at a fast pace. But we did 8:22, 8:39 and 8:37 minute miles, respectively, with short walk breaks in between. That's about a 27 minute 5k, and considering the one and only 5k I've run was around 34 minutes, I'd say that's pretty good.

However, we did skip the post-workout run up Cardiac Hill. It was a holiday, after all.

Big Peach, Big Money, Big Breakfast

Today's training run was at the Big Peach, which I love because it's the best running store in Atlanta. However, what I do not like about running from the Big Peach is that no matter how many times I've run the same routes with the same maps, I get lost. And today was no exception.

You know how people make fun of Atlanta for all the "Peachtree"s? Peachtree Street, Peachtree Road, Peachtree Battle, Peachtree Avenue, Peachtree Walk. Well, Brookhaven is the same way. West Brookhaven, East Brookhaven, Brookhaven, Club, East Club--it's simply impossible. And apparently, it takes more than two blondes (me and Christie) and two brunettes (Hannah and Jenna) to figure out TNT maps. So, when we saw Peachtree Street, we figured seven-ish was close enough to eight to call it a day.

I was waiting for some of my teammates to finish (even redheads like Sarah had trouble reading the maps), so I headed into the Big Peach to buy new running shoes, as mine have over 160 miles on them and will be shot in the next couple of weeks. For my third pair in less than six months (who said running was a cheap hobby?), I selected a slight variation on my current Sauconys, the Progrid Triumph 5, in a sassy gold and white. I'll test them out this week and hope they work, because Alaska is in exactly four weeks!

A trip to the Big Peach is not complete unless you've spent at least $200, which I managed to do by purchasing another pair of Nike tempo shorts (my faves, and Big Peach is one of the only places you can find x-smalls), a Nike shirt from the sale rack, some socks, Cliff Shot Bloks and more Body Glide. It's sad, but these days, I spend more at the Big Peach than I do at Banana Republic!

After my mini shopping spree, I joined Sarah, Tommy, Chad (our coach), Kenny and Alison for a big breakfast at the Landmark Diner. It was beers and burgers for the boys, and typical breakfast food for the ladies--I had waffles with strawberries and a side of bacon, in honor of Angela, who was out of town and whose sole motivation for running--besides helping out our dear Kate--is the bacon that her husband makes for her when she gets back from GTS on Saturday mornings.

And now, it's time for a nap--my favorite Saturday afternoon indulgence.

Solo Act

Training for Chicago officially started on Saturday, but since I'm currently training for the Alaska half, I won't be joining up with my Chicago teammates until June 28.

One of the best things about Team in Training (TNT) is running with the group on Saturday mornings. Nothing makes the miles fly by like chatting and laughing with your closest friends.

Unfortunately, this past Friday night, I had a little too much fun at my friend Emily's house, which meant that I missed Saturday's 12 mile run. Which meant that I had to brave the heat, sun and Atlanta drivers (PLEASE stop for crosswalks! I promise to run as fast as I can!) to do a 12 miler on my own yesterday.

Another great thing about TNT is the water stops. The group maps out courses ranging anywhere from 3-20 miles every single weekend, complete with water stops every couple of miles. Nothing brings a smile to my face more than the sight of blue Powerade on a table or the back of someone's car.

Unfortunately, running solo also means planning your own waterstops. I hate running with water, so I stashed some Powerade in my car and my friend Caroline was kind enough to leave some water for me on her front porch (thanks, Caroline!).

So, I slathered on the sunscreen (75 SPF, no less), strapped on my iPod and headed out around noon. Big mistake. It was incredibly warm out (85 degrees or so), and part of my route took me through Atlantic Station, which doesn't have much shade. I also decided to tackle Habersham, which I have determined is one of the nastiest hills in all of Atlanta. And of course, as I was running doggedly up the hill, exactly 1:06:38 into the run, my iPod died. Nothing like the prospect of another hour in the heat without music, especially while running up hills. So, I started repeating this mantra: Sarah, Kate, Chicago; Sarah, Kate, Chicago. Sarah, who inspired me to join TNT, a lymphoma survivor now training for her first half. Kate, a precious almost six year-old leukemia patient who tackles her illness with more grace and strength than I ever could. And Chicago, for my first-ever full marathon, and for pushing myself further than I ever thought possible. .

And those three words kept me going for another hour and twenty minutes, through hills, sweat, leg cramps, some frustrating walk breaks and a slight sunburn on my shoulders.

It was the longest I'd ever run on my own--and next time, I'll remember to take it easy on the Friday night cocktails and get my butt out of bed on Saturday morning!

p.s. My fundraising page is up and running! Check it out at http://pages.teamintraining.org/ga/chicago08/lscholz