Well, they're gonna happen sooner or later. I'm talking about having a bad long run. I had to do 15 miles this morning and was hoping it would be good. I went with our local running club, but we usually don't stay together too long. The first problem today? I couldn't get my legs to warm up to save my life! Usually, I'm fine with just tights on, but today, it was like running with popsicles for legs! I'd say they were numb for most of the run...which made me feel like they weighed 100 pounds each. It should be noted that I could not keep my backside warm either!
By the time I got to the Y (5 miles), my motivation was waning. I decided to trudge onward and get another 2.5 miles in before turning back. Let's just say these might have been the LONGEST 2.5 miles ever! Sometimes the time just doesn't fly by the way you want it to. I had to walk a few times (which I hate) and was just not into it. To be honest, I considered calling my friend Tina to pick me up. There were a few problems with that though: 1) I had no cell phone with me; 2) I don't have Tina's number memorized. So, I scrapped that plan and kept running.
I decided my chocolate GU would be my big reward when I hit 8 miles. Woohoo! I finally made it back to the Y for my 2nd water stop. Now I only had 5 miles left in this journey. Those of you with IPODS will understand this. IPODS do not like cold weather, at all. They turn off at the very hint of a cool breeze. So, I packed my IPOD inside my jacket pocket today, which seemed to help. I had good tunes for 10 miles. When I left the Y to go the last 5 miles, my IPOD said, "Sorry Mariah, no can do, we're done. You have fun for the last few miles, though." Honestly, at that point, I wasn't too upset about it. I was focused on finishing this run! I had time to think and reflect, which is good.
I wanted to blog about this bad run to encourage all of you. Honestly, I could get all worked up about this. I could get mad that I didn't hit the pace, that I stopped to walk several times, or that it just didn't go well. OR, I could take a more positive approach and focus on the fact that no one is forcing me to run 15 miles today or train for a marathon, for that matter. I could have just as easily stayed in bed when my alarm went off at 6:15 am. But, I chose to go do the work, regardless of how it turned out. At the end of the day, I still covered 15 miles (no matter how I did it). And, as I always say, I'm blessed to have a body that CAN run, regardless of the pace.
I have really enjoyed my training so far for this next marathon and I knew there would be a few bad runs in there. At least I know that there are ALWAYS more good runs than bad. I know there will be plenty of good long runs in the coming weeks. I hope all of YOU have good long runs or good ANYTHING in the coming weeks as well!
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
A new day...
I know, I know...everyone is talking about this monumental day. I won't belabor the point, but felt I should write something. This entry is not meant to offend Republicans or Democrats...it's just my thoughts. I don't want to get into a debate over this!
I myself am excited that we have a new president (yes, I'm a Democrat)! I'm not putting President Bush down, anyone who has this job will make mistakes and have incredibly tough decisions to make.
But, I think President Obama will lead our nation out of this mess and into something better. As I went to sleep last night, I said my prayers. I prayed for & about the normal stuff I usually pray about. Then I prayed for Barack Obama. I prayed that God would guide his heart in every decision he makes. I prayed that God would give him courage and strength for this huge undertaking before him. I prayed that this country would unite behind him so we can work together to move forward.
I know a lot of Republicans who like to tell me what a mess Barack is going to make. I've been shocked at the hatred people have expressed. While I disagree with Bush and some of the things he did, I don't think I've ever said I hated him. I respect him and know that he probably made those decisions with the best of intentions.
I think it's time for everyone to realize - Barack IS OUR PRESIDENT! So, we have the choice to stand behind him and move forward or keep wishing what might have been. This country can do better and we SHOULD do better. My prayer is that we will, but we have to be willing to do the work.
I myself am excited that we have a new president (yes, I'm a Democrat)! I'm not putting President Bush down, anyone who has this job will make mistakes and have incredibly tough decisions to make.
But, I think President Obama will lead our nation out of this mess and into something better. As I went to sleep last night, I said my prayers. I prayed for & about the normal stuff I usually pray about. Then I prayed for Barack Obama. I prayed that God would guide his heart in every decision he makes. I prayed that God would give him courage and strength for this huge undertaking before him. I prayed that this country would unite behind him so we can work together to move forward.
I know a lot of Republicans who like to tell me what a mess Barack is going to make. I've been shocked at the hatred people have expressed. While I disagree with Bush and some of the things he did, I don't think I've ever said I hated him. I respect him and know that he probably made those decisions with the best of intentions.
I think it's time for everyone to realize - Barack IS OUR PRESIDENT! So, we have the choice to stand behind him and move forward or keep wishing what might have been. This country can do better and we SHOULD do better. My prayer is that we will, but we have to be willing to do the work.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Headphones it is!
It's official, I've committed to run the Illinois Marathon in April. I guess I should probably register at some point. This will be marathon #5 for me, and hopefully, my best marathon yet. I was holding out, waiting to see if they would allow headphones. I checked their website last night and lo and behold, under rules & regulations, what should I see?
Headphones, Etc.: Since the USATF has amended its rule on the wearing of earphones, headphones, I-Pods, MP3 Players and similar electronic devices at sanctioned events, these items will be allowed in all of our events. See our Headphone Policy for more information.
I know, it's a little silly to be excited about this, but come on. If I'm going to be running for a little less than 4 hours...I better have some listening enjoyment!
For some reason, I was super pumped after reading this. Now I'm SO excited for this marathon! Several people from our local running club are going as well, so it should be a fun race.
While I want to meet my goal time, I'll be thrilled just to complete my 5th marathon.
Happy running!
Headphones, Etc.: Since the USATF has amended its rule on the wearing of earphones, headphones, I-Pods, MP3 Players and similar electronic devices at sanctioned events, these items will be allowed in all of our events. See our Headphone Policy for more information.
I know, it's a little silly to be excited about this, but come on. If I'm going to be running for a little less than 4 hours...I better have some listening enjoyment!
For some reason, I was super pumped after reading this. Now I'm SO excited for this marathon! Several people from our local running club are going as well, so it should be a fun race.
While I want to meet my goal time, I'll be thrilled just to complete my 5th marathon.
Happy running!
Monday, January 5, 2009
New Year's WORKOUT Resolutions
OK, as I walked into my gym tonight, after driving around for what felt like 20 minutes - searching for a parking spot, I was annoyed. I don't know why I'm surprised every January by the massive crowds that inundate my gym. Yes, I know it's not MY gym, but I feel it's more my gym than theirs. It happens every year...things are going along great, I have no trouble getting a treadmill or finding a space in the cardio class. And then, January and the New Year's resolutions hit!
I've talked with my friends about this before. People, I beg you, please DON'T join the gym! You and I both know what will happen. You'll all come maybe 4-5 days a week for 8 weeks, then you'll quit. Those 8 weeks are pure torture for the rest of us all year-round gym goers. We have to wait in line for the treadmill or any other equipment. I'm not exaggerating either - when I walked into the gym tonight, EVERY single piece of cardio equipment was taken.
We all know I'm not really serious about this, because I believe everyone should take the steps to be healthy and active. I just had to rant because this happens every year and it drives me absolutely crazy!
I've talked with my friends about this before. People, I beg you, please DON'T join the gym! You and I both know what will happen. You'll all come maybe 4-5 days a week for 8 weeks, then you'll quit. Those 8 weeks are pure torture for the rest of us all year-round gym goers. We have to wait in line for the treadmill or any other equipment. I'm not exaggerating either - when I walked into the gym tonight, EVERY single piece of cardio equipment was taken.
We all know I'm not really serious about this, because I believe everyone should take the steps to be healthy and active. I just had to rant because this happens every year and it drives me absolutely crazy!
Friday, January 2, 2009
To wear headphones, to not wear headphones...
This one is for all my fellow runners. Many of you are aware that in the last year, the USATF created and strictly enforced a no headphones rule at most races. I ran the 2007 Twin Cities Marathon with a few friends and that race also strictly enforced this ruling. We later found out that they went through all race photos and anyone wearing headphones was not only disqualified, but also disqualified from entering the 2008 Twin Cities Marathon. Can you imagine if you FINALLY qualified for Boston, but were disqualified for not abiding by the no headphone rule? (By the way, that's me in the blue shirt, Jen in the middle, & Carrie on the right, in the home stretch!)
My friends and I did abide by the rule and went without. Many of you might know that the 2007 TCM was the one of the hottest marathons that year - and I mean hot, as in the temperature. We were sweating after our 1 mile warm-up. I tried to keep a positive attitude at the start, but was feeling sluggish by mile 8. By mile 13, I just wanted it to be over. I was soaking wet and watching people puke, faint, or be shocked back to life every other mile.
My point is this - I believe that headphones should be allowed. I'm a disciplined runner and I happen to enjoy listening to music when I run. Yes, I sometimes leave the house without my IPOD and just go. Or, I run with friends and we talk the whole time. But, in general, I like to put on my playlist and just GO. I don't feel that the music is holding me back or taking focus away. In fact, I tend to run better/faster by myself, with music pumping in my ears!
I don't feel I've ever endangered other runners, bikers, or drivers by wearing headphones. I listen at a reasonable decibel and usually hear anyone/anything around me. Furthermore, most races are cordoned off and have an official course, where traffic must yield. I don't feel my headphones would pose a problem.
During the Twin Cities Marathon, I think I would have given anything to just have some good music going in my ears. I was well past my goal time and just trying to finish (alive). So, to hear a favorite song would have been such a boost! I could have gotten out of my head and some of my negative thoughts and just thought, "Wow, I love this song!" Instead my friends, Jen & Carrie (we all run different paces) and I, all caught up with each other and finished the race together.
I'm not going to win any marathon/race anytime soon, so I see no issue with me wearing headphones, or anyone else for that matter (as long as the volume isn't cranked up). I recently learned that the USATF amended this ruling. Time will tell whether race directors will continue to enforce the no headphones rule.
http://www.usatf.org/news/view.aspx?duid=USATF_2008_12_22_10_22_16
The long and short of it is this: If I'm disciplined enough to train for and run 26.2 miles, shouldn't I be allowed to have whatever motivation I want (as long as it doesn't endanger others)?
I know the opinions on this issue are incredibly divided...just some food for thought!
Happy running!
My friends and I did abide by the rule and went without. Many of you might know that the 2007 TCM was the one of the hottest marathons that year - and I mean hot, as in the temperature. We were sweating after our 1 mile warm-up. I tried to keep a positive attitude at the start, but was feeling sluggish by mile 8. By mile 13, I just wanted it to be over. I was soaking wet and watching people puke, faint, or be shocked back to life every other mile.
My point is this - I believe that headphones should be allowed. I'm a disciplined runner and I happen to enjoy listening to music when I run. Yes, I sometimes leave the house without my IPOD and just go. Or, I run with friends and we talk the whole time. But, in general, I like to put on my playlist and just GO. I don't feel that the music is holding me back or taking focus away. In fact, I tend to run better/faster by myself, with music pumping in my ears!
I don't feel I've ever endangered other runners, bikers, or drivers by wearing headphones. I listen at a reasonable decibel and usually hear anyone/anything around me. Furthermore, most races are cordoned off and have an official course, where traffic must yield. I don't feel my headphones would pose a problem.
During the Twin Cities Marathon, I think I would have given anything to just have some good music going in my ears. I was well past my goal time and just trying to finish (alive). So, to hear a favorite song would have been such a boost! I could have gotten out of my head and some of my negative thoughts and just thought, "Wow, I love this song!" Instead my friends, Jen & Carrie (we all run different paces) and I, all caught up with each other and finished the race together.
I'm not going to win any marathon/race anytime soon, so I see no issue with me wearing headphones, or anyone else for that matter (as long as the volume isn't cranked up). I recently learned that the USATF amended this ruling. Time will tell whether race directors will continue to enforce the no headphones rule.
http://www.usatf.org/news/view.aspx?duid=USATF_2008_12_22_10_22_16
The long and short of it is this: If I'm disciplined enough to train for and run 26.2 miles, shouldn't I be allowed to have whatever motivation I want (as long as it doesn't endanger others)?
I know the opinions on this issue are incredibly divided...just some food for thought!
Happy running!
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Blessings
Happy New Year everyone! Well, 2009 is here and I've decided to ring it in right. I'm counting my many blessings!
It actually occurred to me at Christmas how truly blessed I am. I'm not saying I didn't know this before, but you know how sometimes, things just HIT you? That's how I felt at Christmas Eve church services.
I'm sitting in the pew with my mom, brother, sister-in-law, and their 3 kids. I absolutely LOVE and ADORE my nieces and nephew. Just ask any of my friends, I can't get enough of them. Kayla and Rylan were sitting with me and I was loving every bit of it. I read them the books in their activity bags and we learned all about Adam & Eve - and why they should NOT have eaten those pesky apples.
As I sat there, listening to the sermon, I was overwhelmed with how blessed I am to have these 3 precious kids in my life. I'm so fortunate to be their aunt and to spend time with them. I love my relationships with these kids. We have so much fun together!
Sometimes I can dwell on what I don't have in my life (most of you know what I'm referring to...), but at that moment, all I could do was just smile and thank God that He put these kids in my life. They are exactly the kids I would have chosen to be my nieces and nephew, if I'd had my pick from all the kids in the world.
This was further solidified when, at the end of the night, my niece Madison said, "When will I see you again?" I told her it would probably be on Kayla's birthday (in a month). She said, "No, I want to see you tomorrow!" How lucky am I?
So, as I thought about the blessing of these 3 amazing kids, it made me look at all the other blessings in my life. I have a wonderful group of friends. Seriously, it's like God said, "Here Mariah, I'm going to give you all the best people to be friends with...there ya go. Have fun!" It's true! I have friends from all walks of life and all parts of my life experiences. They all bring something different to the table and I love them all dearly.
I have the friends I can call twice a day, 6 days a week - you know who you are. I have the friends I run 100s of miles with, I mean that literally. I have friends that I can have deep and meaningful conversations with. I have friends that make me pee my pants laughing every time we talk!
I am blessed with a healthy body that can run and actually LOVES to do it! I just went for an impromptu run outside tonight. Can I just say I was grinning from ear to ear the whole time? Running gives me such joy (most of the time)!
God also blessed me with the ability to sing. I'm not saying I'm good, I'm saying I can carry a tune. I love to sing and it also brings me joy. I feel so at home when I'm singing, whether it's in the car, shower, at church, or while I'm running (yes, I've done it).
I'm not one for New Year's Resolutions, but I think I will at least try to focus more on these wonderful blessings in 2009, rather than focus on what I do NOT have in my life.
May you all have a wonderful 2009 and count the many blessings in your lives!
It actually occurred to me at Christmas how truly blessed I am. I'm not saying I didn't know this before, but you know how sometimes, things just HIT you? That's how I felt at Christmas Eve church services.
I'm sitting in the pew with my mom, brother, sister-in-law, and their 3 kids. I absolutely LOVE and ADORE my nieces and nephew. Just ask any of my friends, I can't get enough of them. Kayla and Rylan were sitting with me and I was loving every bit of it. I read them the books in their activity bags and we learned all about Adam & Eve - and why they should NOT have eaten those pesky apples.
As I sat there, listening to the sermon, I was overwhelmed with how blessed I am to have these 3 precious kids in my life. I'm so fortunate to be their aunt and to spend time with them. I love my relationships with these kids. We have so much fun together!
Sometimes I can dwell on what I don't have in my life (most of you know what I'm referring to...), but at that moment, all I could do was just smile and thank God that He put these kids in my life. They are exactly the kids I would have chosen to be my nieces and nephew, if I'd had my pick from all the kids in the world.
This was further solidified when, at the end of the night, my niece Madison said, "When will I see you again?" I told her it would probably be on Kayla's birthday (in a month). She said, "No, I want to see you tomorrow!" How lucky am I?
So, as I thought about the blessing of these 3 amazing kids, it made me look at all the other blessings in my life. I have a wonderful group of friends. Seriously, it's like God said, "Here Mariah, I'm going to give you all the best people to be friends with...there ya go. Have fun!" It's true! I have friends from all walks of life and all parts of my life experiences. They all bring something different to the table and I love them all dearly.
I have the friends I can call twice a day, 6 days a week - you know who you are. I have the friends I run 100s of miles with, I mean that literally. I have friends that I can have deep and meaningful conversations with. I have friends that make me pee my pants laughing every time we talk!
I am blessed with a healthy body that can run and actually LOVES to do it! I just went for an impromptu run outside tonight. Can I just say I was grinning from ear to ear the whole time? Running gives me such joy (most of the time)!
God also blessed me with the ability to sing. I'm not saying I'm good, I'm saying I can carry a tune. I love to sing and it also brings me joy. I feel so at home when I'm singing, whether it's in the car, shower, at church, or while I'm running (yes, I've done it).
I'm not one for New Year's Resolutions, but I think I will at least try to focus more on these wonderful blessings in 2009, rather than focus on what I do NOT have in my life.
May you all have a wonderful 2009 and count the many blessings in your lives!
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