Tuesday, December 25, 2012
11/26/12 Turkey Trot
Turkey race number 2! Bradley won 1st place in his age division and made me so proud. I also made a new PR 30.30-fastest 5k to date.
Monday, November 12, 2012
Pensacola Half Marathon 11/11/12
This was by far my favorite race ever. It was perfect. From the pick up packet at Crown Plaza to the post race party, it was fabulous. This was so much better than the last half I ran. The weather was chilly and windy, but was better than Louisiana humidity!! It was in the 50s when we started, but warmed up to upper 60s and low 70s for end of half. I woke up at 4:30 that morning. I'm not really even sure if I slept! I took a Claritin D by mistake the night before! I meant just to unwrap it but was talking to Rae and Dan and swallowed it!!! I was preparing my clothes and running gear and just forgot what I was doing!! I was in the Courtyard Marriott lobby by 530 after stretching. I ate a banana from the goodie race bag the hotel gave me! I loved that and it was helpful bot to worry about what i would eat pre-race. They even had peanut butter for me when I asked! I drank three sips of delicious coffee. I'm always careful how much I drink, but wanted a few sips of my mojo! I met up with my rockstar friend Mandy Bradley who ran the FULL course, and we headed to the start line! It was there that I ran into my old boss Udo who was also running the half. He is from Germany and we always had that in common-I lived there for years and loved it there. It was so good seeing him!
The pink sunrise was surreal and the pre-race devotional inspiring. Mile 1 is always my worst mile and I loathe it. I almost want to sprint it just to get it over with. I am not sure if that will ever change. My body was like-are you really doing this? We ran towards Bayfront Parkway, over a pink sunrise,
and I could see the beach and bridge to my right. We turned left onto Scenic Highway-which is a slight incline all the way! I knew this, but I was feeling it! I was so glad I had a breathtaking view on Scenic because the hill was sucking the life out of me. I really was feeling good all the way to mile 8! I passed up a beer table, a Santa Claus, and a dancing man with a bell and sombrero. On Summitt Blvd. if you do not know, Pensacola is HILLY and although I loved going down the hills, the beast hill on mile 8 was my biggest challenge to date. It was really a big hill for a runner who has only experienced flat Louisiana! You couldn't see the end of it. That was the only time I had to slow down to a jog and walk for a minute, then jog, walk. I believe this lasted for 2-3 minutes but felt like eternity. The high school band there was awesome though and they were having so much fun! Great placing for
them. All the aid stations were amazing! I passed up the beer stop but did partake in some GU and a nice guy gave me a flag and I gladly accepted it. After the beast of a mountain, I continued and turned on Palafox where the race ended in downtown Pensacola. My family met me and I loved all the hugs and kisses they bestowed upon me. This race was amazing. I think I want to run it every year! It was highly organized and just awesome! I made a new PR of 2.37. I'm not the fastest, but I'm okay with it! I also did not post too much about it but I had been sick for two weeks with a chronic sinus infection and was still feeling it. This race was special in every way. I ran with a special friend. I had my family with me. I was in my hometown. Most importantly, I ran for my dad-a Veteran who 6 years ago reminded me Veteran's Day was right around the corner. He passed away after it-close to Thanksgiving. I also ran it for all the people who couldn't run. And the crazy part is- 24 hours later I am thinking already about my next one...
The pink sunrise was surreal and the pre-race devotional inspiring. Mile 1 is always my worst mile and I loathe it. I almost want to sprint it just to get it over with. I am not sure if that will ever change. My body was like-are you really doing this? We ran towards Bayfront Parkway, over a pink sunrise,
and I could see the beach and bridge to my right. We turned left onto Scenic Highway-which is a slight incline all the way! I knew this, but I was feeling it! I was so glad I had a breathtaking view on Scenic because the hill was sucking the life out of me. I really was feeling good all the way to mile 8! I passed up a beer table, a Santa Claus, and a dancing man with a bell and sombrero. On Summitt Blvd. if you do not know, Pensacola is HILLY and although I loved going down the hills, the beast hill on mile 8 was my biggest challenge to date. It was really a big hill for a runner who has only experienced flat Louisiana! You couldn't see the end of it. That was the only time I had to slow down to a jog and walk for a minute, then jog, walk. I believe this lasted for 2-3 minutes but felt like eternity. The high school band there was awesome though and they were having so much fun! Great placing for
them. All the aid stations were amazing! I passed up the beer stop but did partake in some GU and a nice guy gave me a flag and I gladly accepted it. After the beast of a mountain, I continued and turned on Palafox where the race ended in downtown Pensacola. My family met me and I loved all the hugs and kisses they bestowed upon me. This race was amazing. I think I want to run it every year! It was highly organized and just awesome! I made a new PR of 2.37. I'm not the fastest, but I'm okay with it! I also did not post too much about it but I had been sick for two weeks with a chronic sinus infection and was still feeling it. This race was special in every way. I ran with a special friend. I had my family with me. I was in my hometown. Most importantly, I ran for my dad-a Veteran who 6 years ago reminded me Veteran's Day was right around the corner. He passed away after it-close to Thanksgiving. I also ran it for all the people who couldn't run. And the crazy part is- 24 hours later I am thinking already about my next one...
My first half! 10/14/12. Gulf Coast Half
First half marathon! It was a humid one!! I met my friend Mandy there and was so excited to just RUN. Flat flat flat and hot hot hot! The route started in Fontainebleau Park, then 190, then towards the lakefront. We went down streets on the lakefront i had never been down...I loved all the fans and cheerleaders yelling my name! I was really doing well until mile 7. I think I was overheated and had to slow down. I finished in 2.43. I was fine with that because honestly it was so humid and I wasn't sure if I'd make it.
A great sense of accomplishment! I have to say I almost teared up at end. I was surprised to see my friend Laura with my family jumping up and down with a poster in hand. I'd never ask anyone to come watch and wait for me running....I think especially with the heat how hard it would be! I even asked my husband not to come so early with the kids. But they were all there. That meant the world to me. I'll never forget that.
A great sense of accomplishment! I have to say I almost teared up at end. I was surprised to see my friend Laura with my family jumping up and down with a poster in hand. I'd never ask anyone to come watch and wait for me running....I think especially with the heat how hard it would be! I even asked my husband not to come so early with the kids. But they were all there. That meant the world to me. I'll never forget that.
Sunday, September 16, 2012
Running has changed me
About 4 weeks until my first half marathon. I am super excited. I have kept up my three weekly runs and somehow have managed to meet all of my goals. It is hard fitting it all in and I could have never done it without
my husband. I feel stronger and feel invincible when I run. I always feel good when I finish and even found a way to sneak it in during Hurricane Isaac. It is unbelievable how mental running is. I have run on rainy days, hot days, long teaching days, and just feeling bad days. I have a great running buddy who I've been blessed to do my long runs with. She has been a sidekick and together we have grown and enjoyed some challenges
Gulf Coast Half Marathon October 14th.
Pensacola Marathon Half November 11th.
Wish my dad was here to see me run. I know he would be proud of me. I think of him often when I'm running on a beautiful full moon, since we had a discussion under one before he passed. I like to pretend be is beside me running sometimes:-). Back in his military days, I can see him doing those runs.
I never thought I'd run two half marathons this year. Honestly, you won't see me running a full. I have other goals though and am excited about it!
my husband. I feel stronger and feel invincible when I run. I always feel good when I finish and even found a way to sneak it in during Hurricane Isaac. It is unbelievable how mental running is. I have run on rainy days, hot days, long teaching days, and just feeling bad days. I have a great running buddy who I've been blessed to do my long runs with. She has been a sidekick and together we have grown and enjoyed some challenges
Gulf Coast Half Marathon October 14th.
Pensacola Marathon Half November 11th.
Wish my dad was here to see me run. I know he would be proud of me. I think of him often when I'm running on a beautiful full moon, since we had a discussion under one before he passed. I like to pretend be is beside me running sometimes:-). Back in his military days, I can see him doing those runs.
I never thought I'd run two half marathons this year. Honestly, you won't see me running a full. I have other goals though and am excited about it!
Sunday, June 10, 2012
Shorts Run June 2012
Out of all the the races (since 11/11), this one was my favorite. It also seemed my most challenging even thought it was shorter than some of my other races This was my B plan race-the Abita Hill Race was postponed-refund check in mail. I really wanted the challenge of hills but
was worried about the humidity so was relieved actually to hear it would be held later in the year! I hear Abita Hill course is beautiful and look forward to running it. Meanwhile, I signed my family up for the Shorts Race with my running buddy Mandy, a 1/2 mile race followed by a 4 mile race, supporting our local firemen.
Bradley, about to turn 7, was so excited as we had been talking race talk for a while. We even did a practice run the night before and I gave him three tips for his first race:
*Jog it steady-don't sprint this one!
*if you get tired and want to walk some, DO IT!
* if you leave your dad (who was running his FIRST race too)-just follow the other runners!!!!! ---worried
Mama here.
Bradley ran the 1/2 mile in 4.30 coming in maybe 3 seconds behind #2 runner boy. He was not "Chick'd" so is happy about that (slang for when a girl
Passes you up-we just learned this one) I was so proud of him!!! He said it was not hard and wants to do it again-my runner boy!
Rae was incidentally in the stroller being pushed by my runner hubby telling him to "Go faster Daddy!"
-she said next year she wanted to run one!
The 4 mile course was a square that started in front of Varsity Sports, went down Marigny, the Trace, lakefront, and up a couple of side streets to return to Varsity Sports, where the firemen awaited with the big spray hose. I started off with a fast mile under 10 minutes, better than usual. However, the sun came out mile 2 and 3 full force while I was running the lakefront and I felt the humidity----and felt dehydrated. Those miles were slower for me-about 11 1/2 to 12 minute miles. What kept me going was seeing my husband at the end of mile 1 and mile 3.75. He was snapping pics and the kids were cheering me on. Mile 4 came and went quickly and I ran directly under the spray and it felt great! I didn't want to keep going, even though the finish line was a minute away.
My time-about 46.58.
Weather-started off overcast and then sun came out and humidity soared
Favorite moments-when I saw the rainbow in the picture my husband snapped and when my boy found out he came in 3rd place in his age division.
Regret-never wear black! What was I thinking?
Bottom line-it was a family fun race and it was nice to have them there! Can't wait for the next one.
was worried about the humidity so was relieved actually to hear it would be held later in the year! I hear Abita Hill course is beautiful and look forward to running it. Meanwhile, I signed my family up for the Shorts Race with my running buddy Mandy, a 1/2 mile race followed by a 4 mile race, supporting our local firemen.
Bradley, about to turn 7, was so excited as we had been talking race talk for a while. We even did a practice run the night before and I gave him three tips for his first race:
*Jog it steady-don't sprint this one!
*if you get tired and want to walk some, DO IT!
* if you leave your dad (who was running his FIRST race too)-just follow the other runners!!!!! ---worried
Mama here.
Bradley ran the 1/2 mile in 4.30 coming in maybe 3 seconds behind #2 runner boy. He was not "Chick'd" so is happy about that (slang for when a girl
Passes you up-we just learned this one) I was so proud of him!!! He said it was not hard and wants to do it again-my runner boy!
Rae was incidentally in the stroller being pushed by my runner hubby telling him to "Go faster Daddy!"
-she said next year she wanted to run one!
The 4 mile course was a square that started in front of Varsity Sports, went down Marigny, the Trace, lakefront, and up a couple of side streets to return to Varsity Sports, where the firemen awaited with the big spray hose. I started off with a fast mile under 10 minutes, better than usual. However, the sun came out mile 2 and 3 full force while I was running the lakefront and I felt the humidity----and felt dehydrated. Those miles were slower for me-about 11 1/2 to 12 minute miles. What kept me going was seeing my husband at the end of mile 1 and mile 3.75. He was snapping pics and the kids were cheering me on. Mile 4 came and went quickly and I ran directly under the spray and it felt great! I didn't want to keep going, even though the finish line was a minute away.
My time-about 46.58.
Weather-started off overcast and then sun came out and humidity soared
Favorite moments-when I saw the rainbow in the picture my husband snapped and when my boy found out he came in 3rd place in his age division.
Regret-never wear black! What was I thinking?
Bottom line-it was a family fun race and it was nice to have them there! Can't wait for the next one.
Thursday, May 17, 2012
Raffle Race. 5/13/12 Mother's Day Weekend. A HOT ONE!
When I signed up for this 5k, I never
Thought to check
To see if it was a shaded route! It wasn't! Hottest race to date and although I made a new PR, it was so very humid and challenging! It was all concrete and I have done
mostly trail except for the CCC. My first mile was awesome! It was a little over 9 minutes and I felt great! The 2nd mile started off a
Little slower as the full sun was in my face and I was feeling overheated. The 3rd mile I reunited with my friend Mandy and we both agreed there was no shade lol. I did finish in about 32 minutes, which is my fastest 5k to date. My goal is just to run one in 30 minutes. Louisiana humidity at it's best!
Thought to check
To see if it was a shaded route! It wasn't! Hottest race to date and although I made a new PR, it was so very humid and challenging! It was all concrete and I have done
mostly trail except for the CCC. My first mile was awesome! It was a little over 9 minutes and I felt great! The 2nd mile started off a
Little slower as the full sun was in my face and I was feeling overheated. The 3rd mile I reunited with my friend Mandy and we both agreed there was no shade lol. I did finish in about 32 minutes, which is my fastest 5k to date. My goal is just to run one in 30 minutes. Louisiana humidity at it's best!
Victory for Vicki 4/28/12
This was a short run but a personal and somber run Vicki passed away 4/13 after a battle with cancer
Leaving behind four children from ages 2 to 11 and her devoted husband. When my friend Mandy told me about this race in her neighborhood, Vicki was still fighting and the race was to raise money to help her family with medical bills and cancer research Although I didn't personally know her, I felt her spirit and saw her family on race day I ran this race reflecting on how many people i know who have battled cancer. I look forward to running this race next year. All of
the proceeds went to cancer research. I can't imagine how that family must have felt losing their mother, wife, and more. I was proud to be a part of this. Having lost my uncle and dad to
Cancer and suffering my own scare after Rae was born, it hits close to home. If I could have just one wish, I would wish for a cure for cancer.
Leaving behind four children from ages 2 to 11 and her devoted husband. When my friend Mandy told me about this race in her neighborhood, Vicki was still fighting and the race was to raise money to help her family with medical bills and cancer research Although I didn't personally know her, I felt her spirit and saw her family on race day I ran this race reflecting on how many people i know who have battled cancer. I look forward to running this race next year. All of
the proceeds went to cancer research. I can't imagine how that family must have felt losing their mother, wife, and more. I was proud to be a part of this. Having lost my uncle and dad to
Cancer and suffering my own scare after Rae was born, it hits close to home. If I could have just one wish, I would wish for a cure for cancer.
Sunday, April 22, 2012
Crescent City Classic 4/7/12
On April 7th, 2012, I ran the CCC! My time was not as great as my last
10k, but I had such a great time! I finished in 1.13 opposed to my last one that was 1.07 but it was so crowded and congested I am okay with that. I loved the run through the French Quarter. I enjoyed the orange slices, sprinkler teases, and beads given to me by the locals. The cool morning ended up quite humid, but I enjoyed the rush and the run! Can't wait for the next one!
10k, but I had such a great time! I finished in 1.13 opposed to my last one that was 1.07 but it was so crowded and congested I am okay with that. I loved the run through the French Quarter. I enjoyed the orange slices, sprinkler teases, and beads given to me by the locals. The cool morning ended up quite humid, but I enjoyed the rush and the run! Can't wait for the next one!
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Danielle Charity Race-5k 3/17/12
This race benefited Danielle's Inn, a home for unwed mothers that teaches life skills and more to young mothers with little or no support or help. The race began at 9:30 am at Fontainebleau State Park. The sun was beating down on me and I felt myself get overheated half way through-The water break saved me and I finished in 34 minutes. It felt great being a part of a good cause. Over $5000.00 was raised for Danielle's Inn. 
My first 10k-Ozone Run 3/10/12
On March 10th, I ran my first 10k race. It was the qualifier for the CCC, and my goal was to run the entire race-AND I DID! It was so hot and I pictured myself passed out about mile 5. I finished it however in about 1.07 and was okay with that! And being the crazy girl that I am, I registered for another one-Crescent City Classic, 4/7. I am dreading the heat, but am wanting to challenge myself. Running for me is my sanity right now. I do it for myself. It is such a love hate relationship, and I definitely am having to work hard to work it in. 
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Monk Run-2/11/12
On Feb 11th, I ran
A beautiful trail race at the Monk Abbey in Covington. We had just had some rain the day before, but it wasn't too bad. In fact, it was quite surprising how dry it was. I set a new PR -33.05 for my 3.1 miles and was so happy to see a friend of mine there-runningu it as well.
A beautiful trail race at the Monk Abbey in Covington. We had just had some rain the day before, but it wasn't too bad. In fact, it was quite surprising how dry it was. I set a new PR -33.05 for my 3.1 miles and was so happy to see a friend of mine there-runningu it as well.
Monday, January 16, 2012
Biggest Loser! Revolution Race 5k 1/7/12
On January 7th, I, along with my friend Mandy, ran my 2nd race! I beat my time by a minute
It was around 36:51. But it was a more challenging trail! Same location as last one, but the route took us up hills, down hills, through the woods, around the levee, and we even had to jump a log and avoid mud holes! It was challenging but I can't wait for the next one! I love the time to think when I run and reflect since I am such a deep thinker. I actually ran almost 4 miles with Mandy on the lakefront yesterday and am training now for a 10k. Am I crazy? I had a little setback and had to buy inserts but think I am on the right track now! We will see if that makes a difference.
It was around 36:51. But it was a more challenging trail! Same location as last one, but the route took us up hills, down hills, through the woods, around the levee, and we even had to jump a log and avoid mud holes! It was challenging but I can't wait for the next one! I love the time to think when I run and reflect since I am such a deep thinker. I actually ran almost 4 miles with Mandy on the lakefront yesterday and am training now for a 10k. Am I crazy? I had a little setback and had to buy inserts but think I am on the right track now! We will see if that makes a difference.
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Running my first 5K! The Turkey Trot! 11/26/11
I dedicate this first race to my dad. This one is for you.
I am so happy to finally sit down and take the time to "journal" about my running goals. I honestly can't believe I am writing about running! I am surprised at myself and am so excited to finally do something I have talked about doing for so long. I owe a big thank you to my ole' friend Mandy E. Bradley for motivating me and giving me words of wisdom. I wouldn't be where I am without her encouragement and help! I also am appreciative of my running friends and can't believe how much it can make a difference to have a group of girls to discuss races with and discuss goals.
I never thought of myself as a runner. I talked about running for a year and downloaded the C25K app and used it maybe twice. I had so many excuses to NOT run. I am a good speed walker! I am a good wogger! I can walk/run fairly well!
This last year (2011) I have really started getting back to the gym and feeding my passion: yoga and pilates occasionally but mostly BODY COMBAT! However, sometimes I find it so difficult to get to the gym. It isn't exactly five minutes away and I usually have done about 2-5 trips/errands before coming home and who wants to turn around and go to the gym? However, I manage to get it in about 2-3 times a week if I'm lucky!
I needed a plan. I am a self motivating time and can dedicate myself to something once I see the plan of attack. I started running again at night using the C25K app that my friend Mandy (another Mandy!) told me she was using. After talking about it for so long, I ran my first 5K Thanksgiving Day 2011. It was a unusually warmer November day and I finished the 3.1 miles in about 37 1/2 minutes (something like that). I didn't think that was too bad since it was my first 5K and I ran the entire time The trail run was actually pretty easy compared to the last one I ran. I enjoyed the run along a little river and through some beautiful scenery at Terra Bella in Covington. The race was a Run For Hope (cancer charity) race and I actually saw a few friends there. It was hard, but I did it! I immediately began searching for races in the area and signed up for my next one.
So why do I run? (especially since I do not really see myself as a runner! I played soccer and tennis in high school and always enjoyed going to the gym but NEVER really ran!) There are a plethora of reasons: (in random order)
I never thought of myself as a runner. I talked about running for a year and downloaded the C25K app and used it maybe twice. I had so many excuses to NOT run. I am a good speed walker! I am a good wogger! I can walk/run fairly well!
This last year (2011) I have really started getting back to the gym and feeding my passion: yoga and pilates occasionally but mostly BODY COMBAT! However, sometimes I find it so difficult to get to the gym. It isn't exactly five minutes away and I usually have done about 2-5 trips/errands before coming home and who wants to turn around and go to the gym? However, I manage to get it in about 2-3 times a week if I'm lucky!
I needed a plan. I am a self motivating time and can dedicate myself to something once I see the plan of attack. I started running again at night using the C25K app that my friend Mandy (another Mandy!) told me she was using. After talking about it for so long, I ran my first 5K Thanksgiving Day 2011. It was a unusually warmer November day and I finished the 3.1 miles in about 37 1/2 minutes (something like that). I didn't think that was too bad since it was my first 5K and I ran the entire time The trail run was actually pretty easy compared to the last one I ran. I enjoyed the run along a little river and through some beautiful scenery at Terra Bella in Covington. The race was a Run For Hope (cancer charity) race and I actually saw a few friends there. It was hard, but I did it! I immediately began searching for races in the area and signed up for my next one.
So why do I run? (especially since I do not really see myself as a runner! I played soccer and tennis in high school and always enjoyed going to the gym but NEVER really ran!) There are a plethora of reasons: (in random order)
- it is free! there is no cost involved! no hidden fees! no annual-nothing!
- simply because I CAN. God gave me two legs. They work. Thank goodness they work!
- because I want to give back to charities-specifically cancer charaties. I have lost my father and uncle to cancer. My mother and aunt survived breast cancer. I had my own scare of pre-cancer cells in 2010 and ended up having a hysterectomy to "rid it." I thank God for my health and pray for a cure to cancer.
- I can set new goals. Once I complete a goal, I immediately set another one.
- because I am a winner no matter what! As long as I finish, I am okay!
- it is great exercise! I am getting older and desire to stay in shape!
- I want to be here for my children many years to come. They need me around for many years to come.
- It is theraputic! Yes, after a long day of teaching way too many to count hormonal 8th graders, I feel the need occasionally to destress! And it is FREE! Did I say that?
- It is for ME. I am a busy working mom! I do so much for my children like many of my friends who are working moms. It is about time I really do something for me! I deserve it.
- No one can take it away from me! (it is MINE! I own it!)---
Where am I headed? I'm not sure! I'm not too excited about the talk of running a marathon or half-marathon. That sounds crazy! I simply just want to run about 3-4 times a week and do other moderate activites in between! But I do know this! I have already completed a 2nd 5k and have another one set up for Februrary! Goals are great!
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