Our flight leaves in a few hours and I still have some packing to do. I also need to squeeze in some shut-eye.
Looking at that countdown makes me nervous.
November 30, 2007
Virtual Cheerleader
My sister couldnt make it out to Vegas this weekend, but she sent me pics of what she would have been wearing...had she been able to come :)
November 29, 2007
Too Busy :(
Ok, so I might not have time to post the pic of my race shirt...but I did just recheck the weather. Thats a priority :)
It keeps changing! But the rain should now clear by tomorrow (WHOOHOOOO!). Now its only supposed to be a high of 52 (vs the 59 projected just yesterday). Honestly, thats awesome. And if you look a few days later into the week, its going to hit almost 70. We almost had another meltdown marathon ;) It would be nice to be in Vegas in December when its 70, so I feel a bit bad for all those heading there just for fun this weekend to be missing that type of weather just by a day or two ... but for those of us running I think that we (fingers crossed) have been blessed by Lady Luck. (Here I come Blackjack tables!)
It keeps changing! But the rain should now clear by tomorrow (WHOOHOOOO!). Now its only supposed to be a high of 52 (vs the 59 projected just yesterday). Honestly, thats awesome. And if you look a few days later into the week, its going to hit almost 70. We almost had another meltdown marathon ;) It would be nice to be in Vegas in December when its 70, so I feel a bit bad for all those heading there just for fun this weekend to be missing that type of weather just by a day or two ... but for those of us running I think that we (fingers crossed) have been blessed by Lady Luck. (Here I come Blackjack tables!)
November 28, 2007
A Marathon-Related Post For My Sister
My sister has complained that lately I am blogging about everything BUT the marathon :) Right now my life is just crazy - everything is so hectic and all happening at once. I think the marathon has taken a bit of a back-seat due to the current life situation ... but in addition there is a different feeling this time around. Initially I spent months and months training for one thing - the Chicago Marathon. With the outcome of that event, my whole perspective on "marathoning" has changed. In addition, I have only had a few weeks to get ready for this event. It just feels totally different. Anyway, today I did a lot of marathon stuff! I went to Fleet Feet and got myself a few necessary items. I also picked up my race shirt (we had shirts made for the "Vegas Crew"). I will take a picture and post it later.
As for weather in Vegas, looks like it will be warmer than we expected. We got long-sleeve shirts made ... so it better be cool at the start! The race starts at 6:00 am, and the sun should rise about 6:30. If the weather stays similar, it looks like it will be between 35 and 40 degrees when we start. (Originally we assumed it would be much closer to 30 than 40). The projected high is now 59 degrees! There is actually rain in the forcast for Saturday, so we need some good luck to keep that system moving in and OUT by 6 am Sunday!
As for weather in Vegas, looks like it will be warmer than we expected. We got long-sleeve shirts made ... so it better be cool at the start! The race starts at 6:00 am, and the sun should rise about 6:30. If the weather stays similar, it looks like it will be between 35 and 40 degrees when we start. (Originally we assumed it would be much closer to 30 than 40). The projected high is now 59 degrees! There is actually rain in the forcast for Saturday, so we need some good luck to keep that system moving in and OUT by 6 am Sunday!
November 27, 2007
Dog Chariot
November 26, 2007
What NOT to Say to a Woman
I am on the bus and this man says to me: "Do you work out?". My reply: "Sometimes". His reply? "I can tell because you look very sturdy". STURDY????? when I get off this bus I think I might just throw myself in front of it.
November 25, 2007
My Absence :)
I apologize if I am not around a whole lot in the upcoming days. Not only is this my last two weeks of school, but I have a marathon coming up ;) I have spent the whole weekend trying to get my lecture ready for next week (um, that means tomorrow) and still am not done. Since my students actually are a priority I need to get that little ditty wrapped up.
Yesterday we did our last Saturday run (EVER) ... 60 minutes or about 5.5 miles. I think the whole crew is happy to be done with the real aspect of training but none of us really are in the correct marathon-mind. After training for so long for our "first marathon" (Chicago) we got a bit burned out. Now these past few weeks have been a blur and marathon #2 is around the corner. We all chatted a bit yesterday and it was pretty much unanimous, for marathon #2 we have: not been as dedicated to training, not been eating right and not spending every second thinking about our big upcoming event. Maybe thats good ... maybe its bad. But luckily (or unfortunately) I dont have long to wait...the LAS VEGAS MARATHON IS A WEEK FROM TODAY.Oh, I think I might throw-up.
Yesterday we did our last Saturday run (EVER) ... 60 minutes or about 5.5 miles. I think the whole crew is happy to be done with the real aspect of training but none of us really are in the correct marathon-mind. After training for so long for our "first marathon" (Chicago) we got a bit burned out. Now these past few weeks have been a blur and marathon #2 is around the corner. We all chatted a bit yesterday and it was pretty much unanimous, for marathon #2 we have: not been as dedicated to training, not been eating right and not spending every second thinking about our big upcoming event. Maybe thats good ... maybe its bad. But luckily (or unfortunately) I dont have long to wait...the LAS VEGAS MARATHON IS A WEEK FROM TODAY.Oh, I think I might throw-up.
November 23, 2007
The Vegas Crew
I mention the Vegas Crew now and again (the group I am running Vegas with!) and Kevin just emailed these pictures and I thought I would post them. This picture is of all of us, but Cara, at the Team in Training pre-Chicago Marathon pasta party.
Top row: Kevin, Allyson, Me, Beca, Patti, Amy (not "Vegas Crew", but our Team in Training Mentor)
Bottom row: Bradley (holding sign)
And since Cara is left out of the first picture, I have to post another one of all of us to make sure she is included :) This next picture is taken the morning of the Chicago Marathon ... note the smiles on our faces. We have no clue what is going to come over the next few hours!
Top row: Kevin, Allyson, Bradley, Me, Patti & Cara (far right)
Bottom row: Kate (a member of our original training group, not the Vegas Crew) & Beca
Vegas Weather
Well, we are close enough to the race to start getting an idea of the weather in Vegas! Its looking good (the Las Vegas Marathon is Sunday 12/2) :)
Top row: Kevin, Allyson, Me, Beca, Patti, Amy (not "Vegas Crew", but our Team in Training Mentor)Bottom row: Bradley (holding sign)
And since Cara is left out of the first picture, I have to post another one of all of us to make sure she is included :) This next picture is taken the morning of the Chicago Marathon ... note the smiles on our faces. We have no clue what is going to come over the next few hours!
Top row: Kevin, Allyson, Bradley, Me, Patti & Cara (far right)Bottom row: Kate (a member of our original training group, not the Vegas Crew) & Beca
Vegas Weather
Well, we are close enough to the race to start getting an idea of the weather in Vegas! Its looking good (the Las Vegas Marathon is Sunday 12/2) :)
Turkey Trot
Yesterday (Thanksgiving) I ran an 8K Turkey Trot. Figures my first 8K (and first Turkey Trot) also coincided with our seasons first snow. Waking up there was a dusting of snow on cars parked on the street ... but nothing stuck to the ground. All is good!
Since it was about 10 degrees colder than what I have ever run in before, I put on lots of layers and head out at 8:15 to meet Patti. The race started by the Lincoln Park Zoo, and you could park in the lot for $14. Since Patti and I are such smart city-dwellers we decided we would find street parking for free instead. So we drove around and around, along with about 100 other cars filled with other super-smart-city-dwellers ... until we finally sucked in up and parked in the lot. Then, with about 5 minutes until race start time, we still had to walk several blocks to go pick up our race packs (most importantly our bibs and chips). Eventually, we did start the race - about 15 minutes late. There were 100 or so others in our boat, so we werent too concerned. Thank goodness for chip races!
And this is where the snow came back into play. For the majority of the course we ran straight into whipping sleet. I couldnt decide between running with my eyes closed, or getting my eye poked out - so instead I decided to run with my head pointed to the ground and my eyes squinted tight. That was fun. In addition, the race was an 8K "run and walk" and since Patti and I started late we were running in and out of all of the walkers. It was a bit like an obstacle course ... especially when the course narrowed at points. Eventually we finished, at which point we began freezing (sweaty body + whipping freezing wind = nasty experience). So we grabbed our free bagel and banana and ran for the car.
Overall it actually was a fun experience, and it got me running on a day that most of us find challenging to try to squeeze in a run. After the race I went to Jeff's family for a turkey lunch ... and then drove to my cousins for a turkey dinner. Thanks goodness I dont have to eat turkey again for another year ... I am stuffed :)
Training Log
Time: 50:35 time Distance:5 miles Pace: 10:11 min/mi
I didnt run my watch during this race and instead just pushed it at a moderately comfortable level for the full 5 miles. I have a feeling we ran a bit faster in the beginning because we were trying to get out of the massive group of walkers ... but who knows. In the end I felt great, but definitely got a good workout in. I was a bit winded and today I am feeling a little sore. Luckily, I got to eat a bunch of food and have a couple of glasses of wine to reward myself later in the day.
Since it was about 10 degrees colder than what I have ever run in before, I put on lots of layers and head out at 8:15 to meet Patti. The race started by the Lincoln Park Zoo, and you could park in the lot for $14. Since Patti and I are such smart city-dwellers we decided we would find street parking for free instead. So we drove around and around, along with about 100 other cars filled with other super-smart-city-dwellers ... until we finally sucked in up and parked in the lot. Then, with about 5 minutes until race start time, we still had to walk several blocks to go pick up our race packs (most importantly our bibs and chips). Eventually, we did start the race - about 15 minutes late. There were 100 or so others in our boat, so we werent too concerned. Thank goodness for chip races!
And this is where the snow came back into play. For the majority of the course we ran straight into whipping sleet. I couldnt decide between running with my eyes closed, or getting my eye poked out - so instead I decided to run with my head pointed to the ground and my eyes squinted tight. That was fun. In addition, the race was an 8K "run and walk" and since Patti and I started late we were running in and out of all of the walkers. It was a bit like an obstacle course ... especially when the course narrowed at points. Eventually we finished, at which point we began freezing (sweaty body + whipping freezing wind = nasty experience). So we grabbed our free bagel and banana and ran for the car.
Overall it actually was a fun experience, and it got me running on a day that most of us find challenging to try to squeeze in a run. After the race I went to Jeff's family for a turkey lunch ... and then drove to my cousins for a turkey dinner. Thanks goodness I dont have to eat turkey again for another year ... I am stuffed :)Training Log
Time: 50:35 time Distance:5 miles Pace: 10:11 min/mi
I didnt run my watch during this race and instead just pushed it at a moderately comfortable level for the full 5 miles. I have a feeling we ran a bit faster in the beginning because we were trying to get out of the massive group of walkers ... but who knows. In the end I felt great, but definitely got a good workout in. I was a bit winded and today I am feeling a little sore. Luckily, I got to eat a bunch of food and have a couple of glasses of wine to reward myself later in the day.
November 21, 2007
Still Promoting It
Update 11/22: I double checked my old post (the last time I saw one of these ads on the L)... I was definitely on a different train. This ad is different and in a different spot. I wonder how many of these things are out there? Promoting a major failure that took place almost two months ago. Maybe since Lasalle Bank (the race sponsors) no longer exists, nobody cares about the bad press?
November 20, 2007
The word for the day is...
GLUTTONY
Today I had two lattes, a McDonalds value meal, two pieces of chocolate, some white cheddar popcorn, and a Cadburry holiday egg. And its only 6pm. SHEESH. You would think I had done something special the way I have been rewarding myself, but in fact its just the opposite - I didnt run today ... and I am not running tomorrow!
I do want to say that I didnt realize I was probably not going to get a run in tomorrow until I ate most of this stuff. I had to schedule a drs apt for tomorrow, and I have to go to the grocery store to get stuff for some Thanksgiving preparations, and then I have to do some baking and preparing tomorrow. If I feel super ambitious I might squeeze in a run - but the odds are not looking good.
I wasnt sure about doing the Turkey Trot on Thursday since it will be such a busy day (we travel to see both sides ... mine & Jeffs) but now I realize I HAVE to do it or else I will never get my butt in gear. If I think I ate a lot today, just imagine what its going to be like on Thursday :)
Let the gluttony continue...
And thank goodness for the trot!
Image courtesy of CSNA
Today I had two lattes, a McDonalds value meal, two pieces of chocolate, some white cheddar popcorn, and a Cadburry holiday egg. And its only 6pm. SHEESH. You would think I had done something special the way I have been rewarding myself, but in fact its just the opposite - I didnt run today ... and I am not running tomorrow!
I do want to say that I didnt realize I was probably not going to get a run in tomorrow until I ate most of this stuff. I had to schedule a drs apt for tomorrow, and I have to go to the grocery store to get stuff for some Thanksgiving preparations, and then I have to do some baking and preparing tomorrow. If I feel super ambitious I might squeeze in a run - but the odds are not looking good.
I wasnt sure about doing the Turkey Trot on Thursday since it will be such a busy day (we travel to see both sides ... mine & Jeffs) but now I realize I HAVE to do it or else I will never get my butt in gear. If I think I ate a lot today, just imagine what its going to be like on Thursday :)
Let the gluttony continue...
And thank goodness for the trot!
Image courtesy of CSNA
Livin On The Edge
Our local news did an "undercover report" on the CTA...finding that our busses disregard traffic laws (particularly red lights). On my way to campus my bus blew through a red light. Accurate report? It appears to be so! :)
November 19, 2007
WHAT IS WRONG WITH THESE PEOPLE?
So today I got another cruel and heartless letter from the Chicago Marathon folks (well, this one is from the official photo people).
Training Log
Time: 30:00 time Distance:2.63 miles Pace: 11:24 min/mi
Today I ran on a treadmill that was inside of a sauna. Ok, not literally - but figuratively it definitely was. My gym was so hot and humid that I thought I was either going to have to pass out or have a heart attack ... and finally end it all. I made myself do the full 30 minutes for the sole reason that I didnt run a lick outside of the 20 miler last week. So I almost died just for guilt. Ah, the power of the good-old-guilt-trip.
Order your LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon Holiday CardsI dont understand how these people can be so ignorant. Figure out who finished and send this junk to them ... stop rubbing it in the faces of those who didnt have the opportunity to finish.
The Holidays are such a great time of the year to share memories and cheer with all our friends and families. In this spirit we have decided to offer special Holiday Greeting Cards that capture your success at LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon.
Greeting Cards are personalized with your choice of greeting and a personal message. They are available in sets of 12 or 20 cards with envelopes.
Click on the link below to see all of your photos and to order the special Holiday Cards.
link omitted because there are about 2 photos and I am WALKING All cards are shipped within 3 business days of order to help you get your greetings in the hands of your friends and family.
It was a great event, and this will help you share those memories as part of your Holiday Cheer.
Your friends at MarathonFoto.
Training Log
Time: 30:00 time Distance:2.63 miles Pace: 11:24 min/mi
Today I ran on a treadmill that was inside of a sauna. Ok, not literally - but figuratively it definitely was. My gym was so hot and humid that I thought I was either going to have to pass out or have a heart attack ... and finally end it all. I made myself do the full 30 minutes for the sole reason that I didnt run a lick outside of the 20 miler last week. So I almost died just for guilt. Ah, the power of the good-old-guilt-trip.
November 17, 2007
This is why I run
Training Log
Time: 2:01:29 time Distance:10 miles Pace: 12:08 min/mi
I kept my watch running during our lengthy breaks - and thus the pace was much slower than normal. We have been taking a bit too many breaks during our long runs, but I think all of us (the "Vegas Crew") are just tired and worn from training. In addition to some injury and wear-and-tear, we are mentally tired of the training world. Hopefully this change in our training process will not effect our marathon times - but even if it does I guess I am at the point now where I dont care a whole lot. Remember, I only have one goal - Beat Katie Holmes ;)
November 16, 2007
Friday Funnies
I had a busy day today and haven't been on the computer until now. Not much going on ... again no running today ;) Tomorrow we have a 120 minute run, which will be the first time I lace up those shoes since the 20 last weekend. I have a feeling it will be a bit of a challenge, but I am quite sure I will survive.
Anyway, the Friday Funnies!
Narcoleptic Dog
This dog falls alseep when he is running. Poor dog, I know how you feel.
Energy Bar Review
The McGill Daily (a Canadian student newspaper) has a pretty funny energy bar comparison. They give it to you straight!
Someecards
And for my daily bit of biting humor:
This is the last Friday before Thanksgiving, so I thought I would post a little something to get us in the spirit of things...
Anyway, the Friday Funnies!
Narcoleptic Dog
This dog falls alseep when he is running. Poor dog, I know how you feel.
Energy Bar Review
The McGill Daily (a Canadian student newspaper) has a pretty funny energy bar comparison. They give it to you straight!
Someecards
And for my daily bit of biting humor:
This is the last Friday before Thanksgiving, so I thought I would post a little something to get us in the spirit of things...
November 15, 2007
Deja Vu
It wasnt too long ago I was tapering for the Chicago Marathon. Just like before, I seem to be quite good at the taper. This has been a strange week. First I thought I was having a heart-attack (um, I wasnt) and then I spent two days going back and forth to Indiana for a relatives wake and funeral. Today I still think I am having a heart-attack (yes, I know I am not) and on top of that I am generally not feeling well. The end result is that I havent run since the 20-miler. Its been many days. I had full intentions on running today and have been carrying my stuff around all day, but combined with the funny chest feeling, and the nausea, I also have an upset stomach today. I think I am falling apart :)
On a better note, while I did not do any running - I did think about running. I went to Fleet Feet to get some more shot blocks ... and also picked up some sweet running gloves.
Each week it hasnt been too cold, but cold enough that my hands have been cold during the majority (if not all) of my run. I have been wearing these knit gloves that get sweaty - and then make my hands even colder. A couple of weeks ago Cara bought running gloves and each week during our long runs she laughs at and mocks me when I cry and complain about my sopping wet gloves. I tried to play it tough. "I dont need gloves". Then I looked at the weather for Saturday - high of 48, expected to be 39 when we start running, possibilities of rain and/or flurries. That will be our coldest run yet. Obviously long-range weather forcasting is not trustworthy, but right now it looks like Las Vegas will be at the high end of their average range for 12/2 (60 degrees). Thats awesome weather ... but in case the tides turn I will be prepared with my new, sweet, wicking, Nike gloves :)
In addition, the Fleet Feet employee convinced me to try "Luna Moons" - the
Luna version of the Cliff shot blocks I have been using. She told me that they taste better and are easier to eat - and more importantly they have a pomegranite flavor. Since I love pomegranite martinis I figured this is pretty close, right? At least I can dream...
Well I have all the stuff I need to run and am running out of excuses. If only my body would stop rejecting me I could get back out there and get this whole marathon-thing over with!
On a better note, while I did not do any running - I did think about running. I went to Fleet Feet to get some more shot blocks ... and also picked up some sweet running gloves.
Each week it hasnt been too cold, but cold enough that my hands have been cold during the majority (if not all) of my run. I have been wearing these knit gloves that get sweaty - and then make my hands even colder. A couple of weeks ago Cara bought running gloves and each week during our long runs she laughs at and mocks me when I cry and complain about my sopping wet gloves. I tried to play it tough. "I dont need gloves". Then I looked at the weather for Saturday - high of 48, expected to be 39 when we start running, possibilities of rain and/or flurries. That will be our coldest run yet. Obviously long-range weather forcasting is not trustworthy, but right now it looks like Las Vegas will be at the high end of their average range for 12/2 (60 degrees). Thats awesome weather ... but in case the tides turn I will be prepared with my new, sweet, wicking, Nike gloves :)In addition, the Fleet Feet employee convinced me to try "Luna Moons" - the
Luna version of the Cliff shot blocks I have been using. She told me that they taste better and are easier to eat - and more importantly they have a pomegranite flavor. Since I love pomegranite martinis I figured this is pretty close, right? At least I can dream...
Well I have all the stuff I need to run and am running out of excuses. If only my body would stop rejecting me I could get back out there and get this whole marathon-thing over with!
November 14, 2007
Darn You Starbucks!
November 13, 2007
Heart of An Athlete
Thumbs up on the Dr visit. My heart is in top notch shape! Guess that means I am back to training ... But after all this stress I think I deserve today off :)
November 12, 2007
Training "Time Out"
I have an appointment with a doctor tomorrow to check out my strange symptoms. Spoke to the allergist over the phone today who basically tried to convince me that the odds of these symptoms are so small, that the Nasonex is not likely the cause. She suggested I go in and get an EKG and made me revert back to my original panic attack. But yet when I do an internet search, people left and right on forums complain of "heart palpitations" and "chest pain" while on Nasonex. I am pretty sure its the root of the problem, but as I am obviously not a doctor I am going in tomorrow to get a real opinion. Until I get the clearance I am going to lay-off the running for today and tomorrow! Finally I have a legitimate excuse to skip a run.
November 11, 2007
I Am An Idiot
For about a week I have been feeling odd. Its hard to explain, but I will try. First, I kept having chest-pains. They are minor, but they were noticable. I thought I was having a bit too much caffeine. Although I love my coffee ... when I have too much of it (or have it too late in the day) I get chest palpitations and cant sleep. So I chalked the chest pains up to my caffeine consumption. Then I have had nausea. It comes and goes, and is commonly after breakfast and before lunch ... generally before a workout. I attributed this to my training. Nausea is pretty common in runners, and often related to diet or dehydration and a bunch of other things. On Friday I got a nosebleed. It was the first time in about 20 years that I got a nosebleed. On Saturday (the 20 miler!) I mentioned it to one of the Vegas Crew and was reminded that due to the weather change it was really dry out and a nosebleed was not that strange. It was an excellent clarification and so I was satisfied.
Tonight (just a few minutes ago) I was sitting watching Cold Case and had really strong nausea and chest pain. Again, I had two lattes today (whoops) and really havent been hydrating at all (and just did 20 miles). I thought maybe I needed to eat so I grabbed a bag of popcorn sitting next to my laptop ... and for some reason I thought to myself "I wonder if the new medicine I am taking has any side effects?".
About two weeks ago I started Nasonex for my allergies. There are a list of common side effects (one of which includes nosebleeds) and also a list of less common side effects ... which include nausea and chest pain.
I am quite glad I didnt go all panic-attack on myself and go to the hospital or something thinking I was having a heart attack :) But now I am a bit worried about this medicine. These side effects I am experiencing are rare - and I am wondering if they are dangerous when it comes to the Marathon. Looks like I need to make a call to the doctor tomorrow.
Training Log
Time: 3:36:16 time Distance:20 miles Pace: 10:49 min/mi
There are some complications with the pace of this run. We took some "breaks" ... including one that was more like a picnic. I stopped my watch during these breaks (which added up to about 45 minutes!) because they were unrealistic and done simply because we felt like it. So my running time pace is only accurate in some sense. The 20 was hard, but today I feel ok. My watch tried to fall apart on me (a clear indication that I should have been done training by now!) but I superglued it and begged it to simply hold up 3 more weeks. I believe we have an understanding.
Tonight (just a few minutes ago) I was sitting watching Cold Case and had really strong nausea and chest pain. Again, I had two lattes today (whoops) and really havent been hydrating at all (and just did 20 miles). I thought maybe I needed to eat so I grabbed a bag of popcorn sitting next to my laptop ... and for some reason I thought to myself "I wonder if the new medicine I am taking has any side effects?".
About two weeks ago I started Nasonex for my allergies. There are a list of common side effects (one of which includes nosebleeds) and also a list of less common side effects ... which include nausea and chest pain.
I am quite glad I didnt go all panic-attack on myself and go to the hospital or something thinking I was having a heart attack :) But now I am a bit worried about this medicine. These side effects I am experiencing are rare - and I am wondering if they are dangerous when it comes to the Marathon. Looks like I need to make a call to the doctor tomorrow.Training Log
Time: 3:36:16 time Distance:20 miles Pace: 10:49 min/mi
There are some complications with the pace of this run. We took some "breaks" ... including one that was more like a picnic. I stopped my watch during these breaks (which added up to about 45 minutes!) because they were unrealistic and done simply because we felt like it. So my running time pace is only accurate in some sense. The 20 was hard, but today I feel ok. My watch tried to fall apart on me (a clear indication that I should have been done training by now!) but I superglued it and begged it to simply hold up 3 more weeks. I believe we have an understanding.
November 9, 2007
Friday Funnies ... And some other stuff
Today has been a relatively typical Friday. Last Friday I went for a run, and ended up feeling a bit tired during my 16-that-turned-into-14-miler last weekend. I decided to skip the run today ... but since I didnt run yesterday I still hit the gym for some quality time with an elliptical machine. After class and the gym, I went to a campus cafe and did some work while waiting for lunch. Since I didnt really want to work, I ended up doing some surfing-the-web instead. And thus some web-related info and Friday Funnies!
First, something non-running related. Supposedly this guy's website has become an "internet sensation" ... though I am just hearing about it today. On it he posted a call-out to a girl he saw on the subway in NY ... the "girl of his dreams". It appears it worked because the news reports that he found her - in only 48 hours! His site must be generating a lot of traffic because I cant really check it out ... keeps crashing. But its quite the interesting story ... and oddly one I have heard before. Anyone seen the movie On The Line???
And now back to running ...
MSNBC has an interesting article that talks about Marathons from the race organizer perspective. I don't think many of us often think about the other side ... until the recent Chicago Marathon meltdown. Then, we all were thinking about the race organizers - but mostly to attribute blame. I do think most runners are aware that organizing a marathon is no easy feat, and that the organizers are not the only ones to blame in a situation such as Chicago. But, because emotions in times like that can run pretty high, this article is a great high-level look at what some of these race organizers actually face.
The Funnies
Joggers ... Is There A Dead Boddy Issue Here?
First, here is an article from The Onion (a satirical paper) that is pretty darn funny:Nation's Joggers Sick Of Finding Dead Bodies.
Many of you are probably familiar with the Pearl Izumi ads that make a similar comment (although they clearly indicate that its runners, not joggers, that find the bodies).
This whole thing got me to thinking...is this actually true? For example, all the criminal/law shows feature this (runner goes out for a jog, finds a body) - is this because its a true reflection of reality? In addition, many "missing persons"(that later end up to be homicides) featured on the news are reports of a jogger/runner missing. So I did a quick search of news reports looked up terms liker runner and jogger and homicide etc. A lot of articles came up. So while this is a funny Onion article, and Izumi points to some humor with this situation - there actually does appear to be some truth to it!
Someecards
Havent posted one of these in a week or two. Last night we (the Vegas Crew) were talking about how the majority of us have gained weight over training. Personally, I put on quite some extra lbs in the beginning and have been playing yo-yo ever since. This struck me as the perfect someecard for today :)
And since I found that one so suitable, there are a couple of other weight-related ones that really hit the spot as well!
First, something non-running related. Supposedly this guy's website has become an "internet sensation" ... though I am just hearing about it today. On it he posted a call-out to a girl he saw on the subway in NY ... the "girl of his dreams". It appears it worked because the news reports that he found her - in only 48 hours! His site must be generating a lot of traffic because I cant really check it out ... keeps crashing. But its quite the interesting story ... and oddly one I have heard before. Anyone seen the movie On The Line???
And now back to running ...
MSNBC has an interesting article that talks about Marathons from the race organizer perspective. I don't think many of us often think about the other side ... until the recent Chicago Marathon meltdown. Then, we all were thinking about the race organizers - but mostly to attribute blame. I do think most runners are aware that organizing a marathon is no easy feat, and that the organizers are not the only ones to blame in a situation such as Chicago. But, because emotions in times like that can run pretty high, this article is a great high-level look at what some of these race organizers actually face.
The Funnies
Joggers ... Is There A Dead Boddy Issue Here?
First, here is an article from The Onion (a satirical paper) that is pretty darn funny:Nation's Joggers Sick Of Finding Dead Bodies.
Many of you are probably familiar with the Pearl Izumi ads that make a similar comment (although they clearly indicate that its runners, not joggers, that find the bodies).
This whole thing got me to thinking...is this actually true? For example, all the criminal/law shows feature this (runner goes out for a jog, finds a body) - is this because its a true reflection of reality? In addition, many "missing persons"(that later end up to be homicides) featured on the news are reports of a jogger/runner missing. So I did a quick search of news reports looked up terms liker runner and jogger and homicide etc. A lot of articles came up. So while this is a funny Onion article, and Izumi points to some humor with this situation - there actually does appear to be some truth to it!Someecards
Havent posted one of these in a week or two. Last night we (the Vegas Crew) were talking about how the majority of us have gained weight over training. Personally, I put on quite some extra lbs in the beginning and have been playing yo-yo ever since. This struck me as the perfect someecard for today :)
And since I found that one so suitable, there are a couple of other weight-related ones that really hit the spot as well!
November 8, 2007
Darn You Starbucks!
November 7, 2007
Aha! It's Not Just ME!!!!
Well, the results are in, Chicago is the most caffeinated U.S. city ! Researchers found that Chicagoans eat more chocolate and drink more cola than other US "urbanites" ... and that we are also among the top consumers of entergy drinks and coffee. Seattle (of course!) actually was found to be the highest in coffee consumption (but we will won the all-around). YAY CHICAGO! Its nice to finally win something. We dont need to win the World Series or Superbowl ... we can beat other cities in caffeine consumption! I wasn't included in this research, neither was Jeff. I am pretty sure if they talked to us, Chicago would have went up the rankings in coffee consumption :)
Training Log
Time: 30:42 time Distance:3 miles Pace: 10:14 min/mi
Back to pilates today after a two week hiatus. That felt good .. no doubt! I also ran on the treadmill (again) for 3 miles. Aberage pace was 10:14, but I ran at increasing paces for each mile - starting at 10:45 and ending at 9:30. Hopefully by doing runs like that once a week I can prevent the dreaded burnout at mile 20 :)
Training LogTime: 30:42 time Distance:3 miles Pace: 10:14 min/mi
Back to pilates today after a two week hiatus. That felt good .. no doubt! I also ran on the treadmill (again) for 3 miles. Aberage pace was 10:14, but I ran at increasing paces for each mile - starting at 10:45 and ending at 9:30. Hopefully by doing runs like that once a week I can prevent the dreaded burnout at mile 20 :)
November 6, 2007
Butternut Squash????
Ok, on the Friday before the LV Marathon (and the night before my early flight to Las Vegas), Jeff has his company holiday party. I have three menu options - beef, fish and "butternut squash ravioli". I know the beef and fish are out - but is butternut squash ravioli something that would be ok? This would be my big carbo-loading meal ... the marathon is at 6 am on Sunday. With a 7:30 pm dinner, I will be running 26.2 less than 36 hours after this meal. Any of the smart eaters have some advice for me?
Update: Wed at 10:46 I did run yesterday :) Just didnt post the info. Here it is!
Training Log
Time: 40:00 Distance:3.71 miles Pace: 10:47 min/mi
I did some easy miles on the treadmill - so nothing major to report. The shins are still bothering me (knees too!) but not as much during my runs. Its like a general soreness/tiredness all the time. I think I should have followed the Katie Holmes method of marathon training... 2-3 months of training with the help of professionals. After all these months, I think my body is just ready to run 26.2 and get it over with :) One bonus of my treadmill run - I got to watch the televisions at the campus rec center. Ellen was on. I don't actually watch very much daytime television (which is unusual, being a student and all) but found myself actually laughing out loud several times during my run. At one point she had "big foot" come out, and the two of them danced on stage. It was so dumb it was actually funny. I cant think of a better way to pass treadmill-time than to spend it laughing ;)
Update: Wed at 10:46 I did run yesterday :) Just didnt post the info. Here it is!
Training Log
Time: 40:00 Distance:3.71 miles Pace: 10:47 min/mi
I did some easy miles on the treadmill - so nothing major to report. The shins are still bothering me (knees too!) but not as much during my runs. Its like a general soreness/tiredness all the time. I think I should have followed the Katie Holmes method of marathon training... 2-3 months of training with the help of professionals. After all these months, I think my body is just ready to run 26.2 and get it over with :) One bonus of my treadmill run - I got to watch the televisions at the campus rec center. Ellen was on. I don't actually watch very much daytime television (which is unusual, being a student and all) but found myself actually laughing out loud several times during my run. At one point she had "big foot" come out, and the two of them danced on stage. It was so dumb it was actually funny. I cant think of a better way to pass treadmill-time than to spend it laughing ;)
November 5, 2007
New Marathon Goal
This past weekend, Katie Holmes ran the New York City Marathon. According to her husband (um, that would be Tom Cruise), Katie worked very hard ... training for a whole three months. Wearing a flimsy tank top and strectch pants, the celebrity star wife finished in 5 hours, 29 minutes and 58 seconds.
My new marathon goal is simply to beat her time. Why? Looking at the way she went about it, I guess I just think if I dont beat her it makes me look pretty darn silly. First, training for a whole three months is practically a joke. Second, I dont have a personal chef or personal trainer to help me along the way. Third, I dont have bodyguards (that look like pro athletes) to run with me. Finally, if she can run in all the wrong gear it speaks a lot about the type of "training" she did. Check out the video. At this time she has a jacket over the tank, but you can see her pants are so long she steps on them in the back ... and the three body guards surrounding her are quite obvious :) So all I have to do is run Las Vegas in 5 hours, 29 minutes and 57 seconds and I will be happy.
Workout? Nope, not today
I have had a stiff neck since yesterday. Today its a bit better, but my mobility is quite limited. So instead of Pilates or a run, I am going to take it easy. My shins are still bothering me too ... which reminds me that I need to spend come quality time with an ice-pack or two.
My new marathon goal is simply to beat her time. Why? Looking at the way she went about it, I guess I just think if I dont beat her it makes me look pretty darn silly. First, training for a whole three months is practically a joke. Second, I dont have a personal chef or personal trainer to help me along the way. Third, I dont have bodyguards (that look like pro athletes) to run with me. Finally, if she can run in all the wrong gear it speaks a lot about the type of "training" she did. Check out the video. At this time she has a jacket over the tank, but you can see her pants are so long she steps on them in the back ... and the three body guards surrounding her are quite obvious :) So all I have to do is run Las Vegas in 5 hours, 29 minutes and 57 seconds and I will be happy.
Workout? Nope, not today
I have had a stiff neck since yesterday. Today its a bit better, but my mobility is quite limited. So instead of Pilates or a run, I am going to take it easy. My shins are still bothering me too ... which reminds me that I need to spend come quality time with an ice-pack or two.
November 3, 2007
Whoops
Today we were scheduled to do 16 miles. The whole run I felt pretty great. I was going fast (well, fast for a turtle) and the shins didnt hurt. The last few miles I got a bit tired, and realized that I had not been hydrating enough. The weather was cool, and I took the lack of heat to mean I was not "hot" and foolishly didnt have enough water. It wasn't just me who was dumb ... all of us running today did the same. That doesnt make it any better, but misery sure does love company. So anyway, I got a bit tired during the end and struggled a tiny bit - but still maintained a strong pace.
After the run, Kevin and I were trying to calculate our pace ... and it was unreasonably fast. Putting two-and-two together we realized that we screwed up the turn-around point and actually only ran 14 today! Moments later, Bradley came in...announcing that we didn't run 16 :) Oh well.
About 8 miles into our run (which we thought was 9 miles in at the time!) one of the bridges went up to let a boat pass. This created a literal stop in traffic, both for pedestrians and vehicles. Most of the people in our group had never seen one of the bridges go up - so I decided to take some pics and blog them. This is what the bridges looks like from a bit of a distance. Its fully upright at this time and the boat is passing under it. (You cant see the boat in the pic)
Here the bridge is up. What you see right next to the "stop light" is the street on an angle. Below that street there is about a 2 - 2 1/2 foot gap.
Here we (well, everyone but me) are waiting ... not much running takes place when an open body of water lies ahead!
Its hard to tell from this pic, but the bridge is coming down here. The guy with the head-band is Bradley ... but the other people in the pics are not with us. To the left (not shown) of the picture the actual road is decending so cars can cross - but this shows the pedestrian walk coming down so we can finish up our run!
Training Log
Time: 2:29:21 time Distance:14 miles Pace: 10:40 min/mi
Started off with shin pain, but it was gone a few miles in. Rest of the run went really well despite the energy loss and stupid distance mistake. Next weekend we have the 20...so no matter what, today was nothin ;)
After the run, Kevin and I were trying to calculate our pace ... and it was unreasonably fast. Putting two-and-two together we realized that we screwed up the turn-around point and actually only ran 14 today! Moments later, Bradley came in...announcing that we didn't run 16 :) Oh well.
About 8 miles into our run (which we thought was 9 miles in at the time!) one of the bridges went up to let a boat pass. This created a literal stop in traffic, both for pedestrians and vehicles. Most of the people in our group had never seen one of the bridges go up - so I decided to take some pics and blog them. This is what the bridges looks like from a bit of a distance. Its fully upright at this time and the boat is passing under it. (You cant see the boat in the pic)
Here the bridge is up. What you see right next to the "stop light" is the street on an angle. Below that street there is about a 2 - 2 1/2 foot gap.
Here we (well, everyone but me) are waiting ... not much running takes place when an open body of water lies ahead!
Its hard to tell from this pic, but the bridge is coming down here. The guy with the head-band is Bradley ... but the other people in the pics are not with us. To the left (not shown) of the picture the actual road is decending so cars can cross - but this shows the pedestrian walk coming down so we can finish up our run!
Training Log
Time: 2:29:21 time Distance:14 miles Pace: 10:40 min/mi
Started off with shin pain, but it was gone a few miles in. Rest of the run went really well despite the energy loss and stupid distance mistake. Next weekend we have the 20...so no matter what, today was nothin ;)
Runner dies during marathon Olympic trials
I don't have much of a comment on this. It's obviously a tragic loss. I feel for the runners family and friends.
Top distance runner Ryan Shay dies during marathon Olympic trials
November 2, 2007
LV Marathon News & Friday Funnies
Yesterday I received an email from the Las Vegas Marathon people with some cool info. About the course:
One of the coolest things they mentioned is that the Las Vegas Marathon will be the first "major city race" to offer disposable timing chip technology. Looks like the chip will be attached to my race bib ... sure hope I dont loose my bib!!!!!!!!!
And Now For The Friday Funnies!
I was doing a little YouTube surfing today, so here is what I have for ya'll :)
First, a Powerbar commercial featuring Tiki Barber. I have to say, there are moments I feel like this. Its not usually Powerbar related though, I would have to attribute it to caffeine and sugar.
Lots of my RBF's talk about treadmill experiences. Almost all of us have had some sort of unfortunate experience with one of those human-haters. Looks like Citibank decided to capitalize on our pain and humiliation...
This one has nothing to do with running ... but still made me laugh out loud...thought it was blog-worthy.
- Blue Man Group will perform live at a secret location on the course
- The cast of Spamalot will have a themed water station at mile 2
- Elvis will be keeping runners posted at each mile, marked by 8-ft tall signs
- Emerald Nuts will host snack stations in the last five miles
- The Cirque du Soleil All Star Band will perform live at the Finish Line - at which point all women will receive a rose from FTD
One of the coolest things they mentioned is that the Las Vegas Marathon will be the first "major city race" to offer disposable timing chip technology. Looks like the chip will be attached to my race bib ... sure hope I dont loose my bib!!!!!!!!!
And Now For The Friday Funnies!
I was doing a little YouTube surfing today, so here is what I have for ya'll :)
First, a Powerbar commercial featuring Tiki Barber. I have to say, there are moments I feel like this. Its not usually Powerbar related though, I would have to attribute it to caffeine and sugar.
Lots of my RBF's talk about treadmill experiences. Almost all of us have had some sort of unfortunate experience with one of those human-haters. Looks like Citibank decided to capitalize on our pain and humiliation...
This one has nothing to do with running ... but still made me laugh out loud...thought it was blog-worthy.
My Run: A Pictorial
I have seen a lot of other RBF's (running blogging friends) post pictorial "stories" of their runs so thought I would do one as well. I have two areas where I do my short runs - in the neighborhood and by the lake. All of my long runs are by the lake (really long runs only get to see the lake for a portion of the run, but twice as we do out-and-backs). Today I headed down to the lake for a 4-miler and thought I would post some pics. During the high-training season, these paths are PACKED. Now there are just some random runners here and there. Bikers are back out ... they avoid these paths like the plague in the summer since there is basically no way to maintain any kind of speed on a bike with the sheer number of runners on the path. Today I only saw about 5 other runners in the whole 4 miles ... so you could say it was a quiet run :)
Here is where I started off. This area is by a driving range, just before a river we have a lot of rowers and fisherman hanging out around ... usually year round.
Mile 1 finished, beginning mile 2. The river I mentioned is on the left-hand side.
The end of the second mile.
Long runs take us to the end of the lake and beaches and down by Soldier Field. This is a view of Lake Michigan on the left, and the Hancock building (the tall building!) is on the right.
Turning around, this is my view heading back. 2 miles down, 2 to go.
View over a bridge I cross, 1/2 mile after the last picture (1.5 miles to go)
Heading back to the start ... I have 1 mile to go and encounter one of the few runners I saw today on the path. I think he was a bit confused by my photo-taking, but I tried to act real nonchalont about it ;)
This is sort of part of my run ... its the drive home. I just could not help but post. How cute is this??? This daycare takes babies out in style :)
Want to see some more runs?
Check out some other blogger's pictorials...
Amy has hers set to video and music (a bit too fancy for me to try and duplicate)
Database Diva's run comes with a real Lama!
Princess Runner frequently takes pics on her runs ... and posts great pics of various races. Dont forget to look for her Paul Conrad (a local Chicago weatherman) sighting!
Pat runs in AZ - where you can see real dessert and occasional tumbleweeds!
Training Log
Time: 38:46 time Distance:4 miles Pace: 9:41 min/mi
Theres some good news and some bad news. The bad news is that my shins really hurt during this run. They have been hurting for about 2 weeks and I attributed it to the fact I needed some new shoes. I got the new shoes and did a short treadmill run earlier this week, they still hurt. So I didnt run this week and took it easy - running again only today. Well, they still hurt. The other bad news is that all the bathrooms and water fountains along my path are out-of-comission for the winter. Its confirmed. That could be an issue for the 16 and 20 milers I have coming up. The good news? Well, I made a drs apt for Monday to check out the shins ... and to make things better in the meantime I participated in some retail therapy after my run. New sweater, wicked orange color. That helped a little. Then I went to Starbucks and got a consolatory latte and chocolate-chip cookie (always the cookies!). Feeling better already. Now I must go ice my shins.
Here is where I started off. This area is by a driving range, just before a river we have a lot of rowers and fisherman hanging out around ... usually year round.
Mile 1 finished, beginning mile 2. The river I mentioned is on the left-hand side.
The end of the second mile.
Long runs take us to the end of the lake and beaches and down by Soldier Field. This is a view of Lake Michigan on the left, and the Hancock building (the tall building!) is on the right.
Turning around, this is my view heading back. 2 miles down, 2 to go.
View over a bridge I cross, 1/2 mile after the last picture (1.5 miles to go)
Heading back to the start ... I have 1 mile to go and encounter one of the few runners I saw today on the path. I think he was a bit confused by my photo-taking, but I tried to act real nonchalont about it ;)This is sort of part of my run ... its the drive home. I just could not help but post. How cute is this??? This daycare takes babies out in style :)
Want to see some more runs?
Check out some other blogger's pictorials...
Amy has hers set to video and music (a bit too fancy for me to try and duplicate)
Database Diva's run comes with a real Lama!
Princess Runner frequently takes pics on her runs ... and posts great pics of various races. Dont forget to look for her Paul Conrad (a local Chicago weatherman) sighting!
Pat runs in AZ - where you can see real dessert and occasional tumbleweeds!
Training Log
Time: 38:46 time Distance:4 miles Pace: 9:41 min/mi
Theres some good news and some bad news. The bad news is that my shins really hurt during this run. They have been hurting for about 2 weeks and I attributed it to the fact I needed some new shoes. I got the new shoes and did a short treadmill run earlier this week, they still hurt. So I didnt run this week and took it easy - running again only today. Well, they still hurt. The other bad news is that all the bathrooms and water fountains along my path are out-of-comission for the winter. Its confirmed. That could be an issue for the 16 and 20 milers I have coming up. The good news? Well, I made a drs apt for Monday to check out the shins ... and to make things better in the meantime I participated in some retail therapy after my run. New sweater, wicked orange color. That helped a little. Then I went to Starbucks and got a consolatory latte and chocolate-chip cookie (always the cookies!). Feeling better already. Now I must go ice my shins.
November 1, 2007
Timely Advertising
Mature Audiences Only!
I have some more Halloween pics for you - of the very popular (well, on this blog ... and with their parents!) Paige and Daniel. Please note, do not look unless you can handle some very scary costumes.
Daniel, The Dragon! & Paige, The Butterfly!
The Meeting of the Minds
The Dragon and The Butterfly meet and discuss candy accumulation strategies
Celebration!
The Dragon and The Butterfly celebrate together after successfully accomplishing their goals: looking cute, getting lots of attention & collecting candy for their Daddies & Mommies (since they are too little to have it themselves!) [PS: to the proud parents of The Dragon & The Butterfly, if you have extra candy Jeff & I are accepting donations]
The Aftermath
Too bad they couldnt eat the candy ... a little sugar would have done them some good. The Dragon & The Butterfly rest after a hard day of work.
Update: 5:55pm
All the dogs in the family like to dress up for Halloween. Here is a picture of my Mom's Dog, Miller...he doesnt stay still much so I think this is the best she could get from him :)
And here is Jeff's parents dog, Annie, modeling costumes together with Wrigley. Please pardon the demon eyes...guess they got a little too much into the Halloween spirit! (Looks like pumpkin was "hot" for dogs this year!)
Daniel, The Dragon! & Paige, The Butterfly!
The Meeting of the Minds
The Dragon and The Butterfly meet and discuss candy accumulation strategies
Celebration!The Dragon and The Butterfly celebrate together after successfully accomplishing their goals: looking cute, getting lots of attention & collecting candy for their Daddies & Mommies (since they are too little to have it themselves!) [PS: to the proud parents of The Dragon & The Butterfly, if you have extra candy Jeff & I are accepting donations]
The AftermathToo bad they couldnt eat the candy ... a little sugar would have done them some good. The Dragon & The Butterfly rest after a hard day of work.
Update: 5:55pm
All the dogs in the family like to dress up for Halloween. Here is a picture of my Mom's Dog, Miller...he doesnt stay still much so I think this is the best she could get from him :)
And here is Jeff's parents dog, Annie, modeling costumes together with Wrigley. Please pardon the demon eyes...guess they got a little too much into the Halloween spirit! (Looks like pumpkin was "hot" for dogs this year!)
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