Tales from the Road

March 9 - 3 miles

2010-03-09T20:29:00.000-05:00

Walked 2 miles at the office with co-workers, and then ran/walked 3 miles after work. Just not feeling it lately. Will be glad when the Gate River Run is over so I can focus on weights and other cardio. I think I'm burnt out!

March 7 - 5 miles

2010-03-07T14:28:00.000-05:00

Ugh! Thank goodness for Lisa. We did 5 miles (short sleeves, shorts, visor, no compression socks, Etonics), and stopped to walk every mile for a minute. I was struggling and my shins felt weird. I was so glad to be done after.

March 5 - 4 miles

2010-03-05T19:24:00.001-05:00

51 degrees, 52% humidy. Fabulous running weather. Long-sleeve cotton shirt (dri-fits are all in the wash!), shorts, Etonics. Ran 2 miles out and back, and ran the first mile in 9:30. Felt good overall, with a little pain below outer right knee.

March 3 - 4 miles (treadmill)

2010-03-03T07:35:00.000-05:00

First run since my 2nd half marathon within 7 days. Did 4 miles on the treadmill with Lisa, who did 5. I felt good, and realized I enjoy running outside much more than on the treadmill.

February 28 - 13.1 miles (Gasparilla 1/2 Marathon, Tampa)

2010-02-28T21:59:00.002-05:00

At the Gasparilla Distance Classic Expo

Sprinting to the finish line!

Finished with my 6th 1/2 marathon - 2:08:47!

Downtown Tampa

After not enough sleep (maybe 5 hours, max), the 6 a.m. start time for Tampa's Gasparilla 1/2 marathon loomed - eeek! That's early. Breakfast (oatmeal, banana, peanut butter, water) at 3:50 a.m.? Yawn. I was attempting my second half marathon within a week, since I ran the Breast Cancer Marathon 1/2 last weekend in Jacksonville. The weather was fantastic; cold but not too cold. Long sleeve technical shirt, visor, shorts, compression calf sleeves, Etonic Prayas, mittens and kids' sweatshirt before the race. The first few miles were dark, which was pleasantly nice, and went by fast. Miles 4-6 were on Davis Island, which reminded me of certain areas in Jacksonville. I ran the first 5 mile straight, then stopped to walk when I needed. My left calf was nagging me the entire time. I took the lemon-lime Gatorade provided on the course often, and a GU at miles 6.5 and 10. I ran w/ my 8 oz bottle of water. Mittens came off at mile 7. Miles 8-11 were down and back along the bay, which was beautiful, but at the same time boring. Around mile 10.5 I was walking and heard noise behind me. The 2:10 pace group was approaching, and filled with energy! I ran the last part of the race with them (all running) and then pushed past them with a mile left to go. My Garmin read 13.3 miles when I finished, and my official chip time was 2:08:47 - 9 seconds faster than last week's time of 2:08:56! Another PR! The medal is the best part - emblazoned with a pirate, and the ribbon has colorful tropical designs, and black Nike swooshes. Overall I felt great and didn't even feel sick when I came across the finish line. Dinner the night before was vegetable soup, salad, creole shrimp and rice, and bread pudding at Dutch Valley in Sarasota. And I shared cupcakes that afternoon and had cupcakes for breakfast, in addition to soup and vegetarian chili for lunch.

February 26 - 3 miles

2010-02-26T15:23:00.000-05:00

My second, and final, run between my two back-to-back half marathons went well. Great weather in the mid-50s, a little wind, and sunny skies. I did 3 miles and my left upper glute was bothering me at the end, so I stretched well and hoped for the best.

February 21 - 13.1 miles (26.2 With Donna 1/2 Marathon)

2010-02-21T14:10:00.001-05:00

(mile 7 - 1st Street, Jacksonville Beach)
Great weather - cold, in the mid-40s for the start, and it warmed up to the mid-60s by the finish. I ran the first 5.5 miles tagging along with Kelly and Rachel, and we did 4:1 run/walk ratio. I split from them on the beach, and ran/walked the rest of the way. I enjoyed the 1/2 marathon but got a little choked up at the turnaround point, watching the others head off in the direction of 26.2 miles, which I did last February. The intracoastal bridge was tough at mile 11, but Lisa came and ran the final 1/2 mile of the race with me, which helped immensely.

February 18 - 3 miles

2010-02-20T08:26:00.001-05:00

Last run before the 1/2 marathon Sunday and I did three miles in 50-degree weather. (Adidas dri-fit zip-up, shorts, bondi band, Etonic Prayas) Wind was much less than it's been lately, which was nice. I felt good, despite having been sick for the past few days and without a voice. I ran most of the 3 miles, stopping 3 times for walk breaks, and still finishing in 38:30. Got up to 8:20 pace at one point! My left outer ankle area was bothering me again, even in the new shoes.

February 15 - 4 miles

2010-02-15T18:47:00.000-05:00

Despite the grey skies, it was 55 degrees, 67% humidity, SW winds gusting 15 to 23 mph (ugh!), when I set out on my 3-4 mile run. I have no voice and still don't feel 100% but wanted to get in at least a few miles. It was my first outdoor run in my new shoes, and they felt good - I felt much lighter and faster than in my New Balances. I ran very fast, much quicker than the past few weeks, and even with a few walk breaks managed to complete the down and back 4 miles in 38:17. The wind was brutal too.

February 13 - 7 miles (treadmill)

2010-02-13T09:44:00.000-05:00

Started feeling sick Thursday afternoon and by no means am completely better, but the "7 miles" on the schedule still loomed. It was chilly and grey outside and I woke up early, so I decided to do the 7 on the treadmill. So sweaty! It went fairly well as I tested out my new shoes from Jacksonville Running Company, a new pair of Etonic Prayas (I wore Prayas this summer, before injuring my IT band, and loved them). The first two miles my knees hurt a little, and then I eased into things and they felt better. The top of my right foot started hurting at mile 6 and I think that's because the laces may be too tight. Overall I felt good and was glad to knock the 7 miles out, even if I was under the weather.

February 11 - 3 miles

2010-02-11T07:30:00.002-05:00

Warmed up for a few minutes on the treadmill which seemed to make a difference (typically I step on then go right into a 6.0 mph run), then ran 3 miles with Lisa. Could have gone 4 but know I should taper. I've been running at least 4-6 miles on my short mile days lately, so 3 was good. I did 10 min. on the elliptical with arms after.

February 10 - Cardio + Weights

2010-02-10T07:00:00.000-05:00

After an amazing Black Eyed Peas concert last night (in bed at midnight), I still managed to get up for the gym this morning! And it was freezing outside. I did the bike for a few minutes with Lisa, then 20 minutes of the elliptical. (HR in 130s) Then arms and chest/back — note to self: do more triceps dips! — and off to a meeting.

February 9 - 4 miles

2010-02-09T07:12:00.001-05:00

Hard to believe it's taper time for the 1/2 marathon — already! Time flies. Unfortunately there weren't two treadmills together so Lisa and I had to separate. I managed to do 4 without too much trouble, though I stopped to stretch my nagging left ankle about midway through. I took some walk breaks but ran most of it at 9:30 pace. HR up to the 160s. Very humid in the gym again.

February 8 - 30 min cardio + weights + 2 mi walk

2010-02-08T19:03:00.002-05:00

Got up and went to the gym! It was pretty dead due to Super Bowl Sunday. I did 15 min. on the big elliptical with arms — that thing is tough, then lifted arms and back. Then I did 15 min. on the regular elliptical with arms. Today I walked 2 miles and climbed stairs.

February 7 - 10 miles

2010-02-07T12:23:00.003-05:00

10 a.m. run: 44 degrees, feels like 38, and 8 mph winds (I think weather.com lied). Long-sleeve cotton t-shirt, Nike running shorts, compression calf sleeves, visor, Garmin, mittens (took them off after mile 2). Ran with Lisa, and completed 10 miles in 1:42. Was so nice to have someone to chat with outside. I haven't run with a friend outdoors in months. It flew by. The first mile or two were tough, but after mile 6 I felt like I could go all day.

February 5 - 5 miles (dreadmill)

2010-02-05T07:52:00.002-05:00

Oh my goodness! SO humid in the gym. (and 65 outside!) Thank goodness for Lisa. I got my end treadmill and did 5 miles (54:30?) and she did 6 miles. It was brutal. My left outer ankle/achilles hurt early on so I tightened my shoe laces and it was better. It's still stiff post-run but not painful or anything. My lungs and legs felt fine during the run/walk but it was so humid and hot in the gym.

February 3 - 30 min cardo + weights + 2.5 mi walk

2010-02-03T19:33:00.000-05:00

Made it to the gym in the morning and did 20 min. on elliptical w/ arms with Lisa then 10 min. on the big elliptical with arms. Then arms/back workout. At work I walked 2 miles with my co-workers and did an extra .5, in addition to stairs.

February 2 - 3 mile run + 2 mile walk

2010-02-02T18:20:00.003-05:00

Slept in this morning (nice to get 10+ hrs of sleep though). After a long lunch meeting at work (catered: tomato tortilla soup, arroz con pollo, kidney beans, caesar salad, marinated avocado, and warm rice pudding — okay, okay I had seconds!) I was happy for the 2-mile walk around the lake with my 2 co-workers. Throughout the day I managed to climb the 6-story building I work in (10 flights of stairs x 12 steps each = 120) 5 times. After work I ran 3 miles in 29:18, stopping a few times for walk breaks. It was 58 degrees, 81% humidity and NW winds 14 mph. Overall I felt okay, my left outer achilles felt a bit better but still stiff. Long sleeve oversized (bad idea) cotton t-shirt, shorts, New Balances, and Bondi Band.

February 1 - 40 min cardio + arms/back workout + 2 mi walk

2010-02-01T11:13:00.003-05:00

Had the morning off so slept in then headed to the gym. Did 20 minutes on the big elliptical with arms (HR to 163) then a good arms and back workout, then 20 minutes on the regular ellipitcal with arms (HR to 145), where I chatted with Amy, who I haven't seen at the gym in ages. At 3 pm my two co-workers and I did a 2-mile walk around the lake (6 laps).

January 31 - Double Digits! 10 miles

2010-01-31T18:14:00.002-05:00

It was 44 "feels like 37" degrees, 71% humidity, with NNE 17 mph (insert groan here!) winds, but grey and cloudy, and if you ask me - perfect running weather (minus the winds). Visor, long sleeve cotton shirt, shorts, compression calf sleeves, New Balances, mittens. The first 2 miles weren't too fun, but around mile 6 I felt great, and by 8, felt I could go all day. I made myself stop at 10 (1 hr 42 min), as the 1/2 marathon is three weeks away. Stopped for water a few times and downed a GU with caffeine almost to mile 6. My left outer ankle/side achilles is still and bothered me a bit early on in the run. Not sure what the deal is.

January 28 - 4 miles (dreadmill!) + 2 mile walk

2010-01-28T07:45:00.004-05:00

Finally got up this morning and met Lisa at the gym - she ran 6, and I did 4 relatively easy (43:30) miles. My HR got up to 164, and I was running around 9:40 to 10-min. mile pace. Thank goodness for each other or we would have both called it a day after about a mile. I haven't done a treadmill run in more than a month. I've enjoyed running outside, even when it's boring, just for the fresh air and change of scenery. After the 4 I did some arm weights and stretches. My right knee hurt a tiny bit during the run/walk. At work I did two miles (6 laps) with my two co-workers and then throughout the day climbed 6 flights of stairs 3x.

January 27 - 2 mile walk

2010-01-27T20:22:00.000-05:00

6 laps around the lake (in sneakes!) at work yielded about 2 miles (33 minutes) with two co-workers. I'm wearing my Garmin next time so we know for sure.

January 26 - 6 miles

2010-01-26T18:50:00.002-05:00

63 degrees, sunny, windy - 18 mph - 4:15 p.m. Took two days off due to work travel. Felt good, even ran some in the 8:30-9 minute pace range. Finished 6 miles in 1:02, with walk breaks.

January 23 - 5 miles

2010-01-23T11:53:00.000-05:00

Mid-morning 5 miles. Lots of walk breaks (maybe 2 days back to back wasn't a great idea after being sick), and lots of wind. Short sleeve shirt again, shorts, visor, and my new compression calf sleeves.

January 22 - 4 miles

2010-01-22T18:22:00.001-05:00

Finally feeling better after being sick for a week+. I did 4 easy miles in 41 minutes, impressed that I was able to bounce back so quickly. Short sleeves, hat, shorts!

January 18 - 3 miles

2010-01-18T15:15:00.002-05:00

Ugh, have been sick since Wednesday night so no running for me lately. Having the day off from work today, and breezy 65-degree temperatures, I set out in shorts, dri-fit short sleeve shirt, and visor. I aimed for three, and made it three but the lungs weren't having it. (had to walk a lot) The legs, on the other hand, felt fabulous. I wore my new ZXU calf compression sleeves from Jacksonville Running Company and they were awesome.

January 13 - 6 mile bike ride

2010-01-13T19:17:00.000-05:00

So I haven't ridden in a bike in forever, but a friend let me borrow his Schwinn, so I set off for a ride. It was SO windy and cold with the wind flapping in my face. I wore shorts, a long sleeve cotton shirt and a lululemon headband with mittens. My hands and lower back were hurting a bit by the time I finished. I played around with the gears to make it hard at certain parts and easier on others. It was an interesting experience. I think I actually prefer running, which is odd, because I saw everything faster on the bike ride, which was neat. I did about 6 miles and was happy to be done.

January 12 - 5 miles

2010-01-12T19:12:00.000-05:00

5 mile run after work in under 52 minutes with walk breaks - my legs felt heavy the first mile or so, then I got moving. It was in the 40s and not too windy.

January 10 - 10 miles

2010-01-10T13:08:00.002-05:00

Burrr...29 degrees at 10 a.m., but the sun was shining and skies were blue. I was going to run yesterday but it was cold and grey, otherwise known as miserable. The 10 miler was a decent run in tights, shorts, long-sleeve shirt, mittens, and visor. Everything was good until about mile 9, running home in the wind. Ugh! Ran with the 8 oz water bottle and refilled it once. It was neat to see icicles on shrubs (I knocked some off with my mittens, which was fun) and frozen water on sidewalks. Did not enjoy running through Reedy Branch, as I ran all of its streets and cul-de-sacs. I typically like running through neighborhoods because the houses are different, and there's always something to distract me. This one was just boring.

January 4 - 4 miles

2010-01-04T18:43:00.003-05:00

4 miles with walk breaks in 41 minutes at lunch. Long sleeve cotton shirt (bad idea), shorts, visor, mittens. Despite being blue skies, sunny and windy and cold - 44 - I was still warm and sweaty. The wind was brutal.

January 3 - Gym

2010-01-03T16:42:00.000-05:00

20 minutes on the big elliptical with arms (HR up to 160), then 20 minutes on the bike (HR to almost 140) then did arms/chest/back weights at the gym.

January 2, 2010 - 6 miles in the new year!

2010-01-02T12:09:00.002-05:00

10 a.m.: 41, feels like 35, wind 10 mph, and sunny. I did capri Nike tights, dri-fit long sleeve shirt, visor and mittens and probably would have been good in shorts. I made it about a mile and a half before wanting to turn around and go home but I kept going. Lots of walk breaks and just felt overall tired and legs felt heavy, despite not doing anything the last two days. I stopped to refill my small water bottle twice and had a GU with caffeine around mile 1. Did 6 miles.

December 30 - Bike + Elliptical + Vball

2009-12-30T19:45:00.000-05:00

15 minutes on the upright bike and then 30 minutes on the large elliptical that only goes forward (HR was around 152), then played 1 game of volleyball.

December 29 - 10 miles

2009-12-29T18:42:00.000-05:00

Great weather for a late afternoon run - in the 50s and some wind, I set out in long sleeve technical shirt, shorts, and no mittens, and carried my small water bottle. Ran 1.5 miles to the nice neighborhood with the water fountain, running 3 miles throughout the neighborhood, and then continued on, the normal loop, finishing 10 miles in 1:39, even with walk breaks. Stopped to refill the water bottle twice and by the last mile my hand was freezing from being gloveless and holding cold water. I felt great, like I could have easily continued on to 13.1+.

December 27 - 3.5 miles + tennis

2009-12-27T20:19:00.002-05:00

Ran 3.5 miles with Kostas without stopping around the UNF campus, then played about an hour of tennis (lost, 3-6, despite winning the first two). It was 55 or so and I was comfortable in long sleeve shirt, shorts, mittens. After the run my knees were stiff and had pain on the knee caps. I stretched before we played then felt okay. Overall feel very worn out, again.

December 26 - 5 miles

2009-12-26T18:46:00.000-05:00

Drove 4 hours from Sarasota back to Jacksonville, stopped to see some friends, then unpacked the car and quickly set off in the 55 degree weather in long-sleeve shirt, shorts, mittens and visor. (water in hand) It was windy, again, and I managed to run a slow 5 miles. After mile 2 I was ready to stop and come home but I made myself keep going. I felt completely wiped out after.

December 24 - 7 miles (in Sarasota)

2009-12-24T16:34:00.001-05:00

Oh, Sarasota! 77 degrees, 57% humidity and winds ESE 16 mph made for an okay run. The first mile was surprisingly quick (9:15). Carried a bottle of water with me, thankfully, and by the end I was ready for more. Ran by a 6-ft. gator near a golf course, a kid dressed as Buzz Lightyear and three of my friends (from middle school) houses. Picked two kumquats off a tree and ate one, feeling oddly nostalgic as my grandpa and I used to pick them when I was a kid. Overall I felt okay, but stopped often to walk for a minute or less, then get back into the running. Mostly my pace was 9:20. Not bad for 4 days after the half marathon and a few hours after a big lunch (curried chicken salad wrap, kale soup, coffee).

December 20 - Jax Bank 1/2 MARATHON!

2009-12-20T16:30:00.004-05:00

Hannah!

Lisa, me, Audra post-race

Today I ran my....4th half marathon!

Burrr, after about 5 hours of sleep I woke up, and checked weather: 43 degrees, feels like 39 - winds NW at 6 mph, 72% humidity. Tights, shorts, dri-fit New Balance shirt, 26.2 with Donna longsleeve technical shirt, Nike hat, kid's gloves, socks, shoes. Wore a light fleece for the first three miles. (got way too warm with it on) Breakfast was the usual: banana, peanut butter, bread, and water, though around mile 2 and 3 I was hungry. Audra, Sarah, Lisa and I started out together and Lisa and Audra went ahead, then I left Sarah and ran with Summer, Hannah, and some other friends on and off. I jogged most of the first 6 to 8 miles. Around mile 4 I felt I needed to go to the bathroom (1) and that persisted throughout most of the race. I stopped for Gatorade (orange, my fav.) twice and took a tri-berry GU w/ caffeine around mile 8. At that point I was just ready to be done. I felt okay overall but was just bored and wanting to be finished. I kept going. Around mile 9.5, some of my favorite Galloway buddies - Dawn, Jennifer, and Hannah - came up behind me and Hannah stayed and ran the rest of the race with me. She wanted 4 to 1 run/walk ratios so we stopped for the minute breaks. This slowed my overall time down a bit but I still finished strong in 2:16:39, four seconds slower than my first half marathon last October. On the way home my stomach hurt - possibly from the Cantina Laredo for dinner last night (chips and guacamole, spinach salad, fajitas w/ shrimp, steak and chicken, 1 Dos Equis Amber - and - I skipped the dessert selection!).

December 16 - 7 miles

2009-12-16T20:27:00.002-05:00

Great running weather: 59 degrees, 62% humidity, winds NNE 16 mph - hat, mittens, long sleeve cotton shirt (need to do laundry!), shorts, new New Balances. Did 2.6 down and back and added another loop for 7 miles. The first mile my legs and shins and calves seemed tight but after that it was smooth sailing. I stopped about 5 or 6 times for a minute walk break, finishing the 7 miles in 71 minutes.

December 14 - 8 miles

2009-12-14T07:36:00.001-05:00

So humid in the gym. Got up early and was at the gym, on my favorite treadmill, and somehow/someway made it 8 miles. Lisa only joined me for 2 miles, which helped a little, and then an older man ran about 3 next to me. When he exited the treadmill I was at mile 6 and he said "you win!" and I replied, "I don't want to win, I just want to be done!"

December 10 - 11 miles

2009-12-10T19:22:00.002-05:00

Another chilly run (my favorite!) in tights, long sleeve shirt, shorts, visor, and mittens. Not as windy as Sunday's 8-miler, and not nearly as tough. I ran a different route (out to the right, instead of left) to mix it up, and stopped for water a few times to fill the 8 oz bottle I was carrying. Overall I felt good, and the first mile was sub-9. Around mile 4 my inner knee bothered me a little but it went away. Finished the 11 miles in 1:52. This was my longest run since the Marine Corp Half Marathon in early October!

December 9 - 3 miles

2009-12-09T08:32:00.000-05:00

72 degrees, 84% humidity. In December! Ugh. I tried to run at least 3 outside but my inner left knee was bothering me a bit and my outer left ankle. I jogged/walked 3 miles. and felt blah. Not sure why I am so out of it this season.

December 6 - 8 miles

2009-12-06T19:01:00.001-05:00

Burrr, it was chilly and windy - high 40s. I started out and it was light, finished when it was getting dark, and ran a 2.5-mile down-and-back and then added parts on. The first mile was fast - under 9 minutes. I walked every mile in the beginning, for a minute, then started taking minute walk breaks as needed. At the end of 8 (1 hr, 24 minutes) my right foot hurt a little and I was wiped out and thirsty. My first run in tights, mittens, shorts, and long sleeve shirt in almost a year!

December 3 - 4 miles

2009-12-03T08:01:00.001-05:00

Wow. An extremely challenging morning treadmill run for Lisa and me. It was beyond humid in the gym, despite being in the upper 60s outside. We both really struggled and I'm surprised I made it to 4 miles, and she made it to 5. One of our toughest runs yet.

November 29 - 9 miles

2009-11-29T17:21:00.002-05:00

After not running the Thanksgiving Day half marathon (I've decided on the Gasparilla 1/2 in Tampa instead), and consuming lots of Thanksgiving goodies, I thought it'd be a good idea to hit the asphalt. My goal was six miles, but I set out on the 7-mile course (3.5 down, 3.5 back) and felt good in my new shoes. I stopped for ice water at the halfway point. I added a loop before I completed the 7 to make it closer to 8, then I added on more at the end. A bit stiff and slow but kept it to about 9:30- to 10-minute miles (with walk breaks). Good weather: 70 degrees, 41% humidity.

November 23 - 3 miles + 2 by bike

2009-11-23T19:27:00.003-05:00

Ugh. Got up and ran (barely) 3 miles at the gym with Lisa this morning. Neither of us could run. My HR was around 155 and I couldn't get to 6.0 without struggling. My legs felt okay and even my breathing was okay, but my upper chest was hurting. After 3 miles I biked 2, stretched, and happily left the gym.

November 22 - 4 miles

2009-11-22T18:30:00.002-05:00

After taking Saturday off from running (I did walk around Gainesville, to and from the car to the stadium) I decided to do a few miles outside for the first time in weeks, around 4:30 p.m. (73 degrees, 74% humidity). Four miles was tough (43:30) and I even took it easy, adding quite a few walk breaks. I hadn't had any water since last night except for maybe 8 oz., so I was definitely thirsty on the run, and glad to be done.

November 20 - 9 (treadmill) miles!

2009-11-20T21:12:00.000-05:00

After not a lot of running and a lot of working I knew what I had to do after work: hit the treadmill. I went four miles, then ran to five, and kept going one by one until I hit 9. I even watched a funny rerun of "The Office" (Women's Appreciation Day episode) which kept me laughing, and my legs moving. I felt good, but my knees were stiff. After lots of stretching and water I felt just fine. A good end to a very busy week.

November 18 - 3.3 miles

2009-11-18T08:03:00.000-05:00

Another tough run on the treadmill at the gym with Lisa. I was aiming for 4 or 5 miles but only managed 3.3. I hate ending in uneven numbers but I couldn't make it to 4. I hope this is just a phase?

November 15 - 3 miles + tennis

2009-11-15T12:23:00.000-05:00

Kostas and I ran 3 miles at UNF and talked the entire way, finishing in 32:30. It was fairly humid and the sidewalk was being torn up so we had to constantly run around broken pieces of cement. We then played tennis for an hour and I lost 6 to 4.

November 14 - 5 miles

2009-11-14T16:39:00.002-05:00

Finally! Back to running after a lot of time off due to having a cold and working late. Ran 5 miles in 53:30 on the treadmill mid-day at the gym. Nothing fancy.

November 13 - 2 miles

2009-11-13T19:52:00.000-05:00

After a horrible week at work I thought it'd be a good idea to attempt the treadmill (too late/dark to run outside). I managed 2 miles and was so tired and ready for bed I knew I needed to go home. I can always run in the morning...

November 3 - Sick.

2009-11-03T20:40:00.000-05:00

Boo. The flu has been going around the office and thank goodness for my flu shot, but I somehow managed to land a cold. Sneezy, stuffy nose, congestion....ugh. Not exactly great running conditions.

November 1 - 6 miles

2009-11-01T13:45:00.002-05:00

70 degrees, 54% humidity at 1 p.m. The sun was out but for the most part it was overcast. My goal was 3-4 miles, but I managed 6, though the last one was tough due to tired legs and a little wind. Ran the first mile in 9:20. Overall my legs felt fine and there were no aches or pains. I stopped to walk a few times, but completed 6 miles in 60 minutes!

October 30 - 6 (treadmill) miles

2009-10-30T20:50:00.001-04:00

My treadmill decided to stop after 5.86 miles, so I had to start over to complete the final .14.

Tomorrow's scheduled group run is a 6-miler downtown at 6 a.m. Yawn. I decided to knock it out today instead and sleep in, in the morning. Everything went according to plan and I completed 6 miles on the treadmill in under an hour, including a few walk breaks. I felt good, and felt that I could have fun more. It was very hot and humid in the gym though.

October 28 - 3 miles

2009-10-28T19:56:00.002-04:00

10 minutes on the elliptical with arms (first time in awhile for this one) - HR to 145. Then jogged 3 miles with Lisa. We both really needed each other this morning to get by! It was exceptionally humid in the gym and we both had trouble running. My left outer ankle is bothering me, which I blame my shoes, and my lungs felt heavy. My legs felt fine otherwise. My HR was up to 170 during the run.

October 27 - Bike + arms

2009-10-27T07:10:00.000-04:00

Rode the bike for 20 minutes with Lisa at the gym before work and then completed a biceps/triceps workout.

October 26 - 3.1 miles in 29:15

2009-10-26T20:37:00.002-04:00

Ran 3.1 miles outside after work in 74 degree weather with 80% humidity, keeping around 9:15 pace and speeding up to 8:50 at times. It was windy but overcast. Everything felt good and I stopped two times to walk for 1 minute.

October 25 - 10 mile Evergreen Pumpkin Run

2009-10-25T21:12:00.001-04:00

Sarah and I before the race, and Hannah and I after the 10-mile Evergreen Cemetary Pumpkin Run.

60 degrees, 67 percent humidity. Great weather! Did 3 to 1 run/walk ratios with Sarah and Hannah, as she pushed Jeffrey in his stroller. My left IT band began to ache around mile 5.

October 19 - 3 miles

2009-10-19T08:00:00.000-04:00

Ran 1 mile on the treadmill then did some upper body weights then came home and ran two miles outside. Great weather again, wore long sleeves for the first time in forever.

October 17 - 4 miles outside

2009-10-17T10:49:00.002-04:00

Great weather in the 60s, and felt good for four miles before heading off to Gainesville for the UF vs. Arkansas football game. Ran 4 miles (abour 3 1-minute walk breaks).

October 15 - 4 miles

2009-10-15T07:52:00.002-04:00

Treadmill run with Lisa before work — 4 miles.

October 13 - 4 miles

2009-10-13T19:15:00.003-04:00

So it appeared to be slightly cooler outside after work, and weather.com told me it was 77 and 78% humidity. I laced up my shoes and set out for 3 miles. I finished two in under 20 minutes and rounded out the run with 4 miles in 39:06, including four walk breaks. Right knee hurt a little in the beginning but not too bad.

October 12 - Treadmill Birthday Run - 9 miles!

2009-10-12T23:45:00.000-04:00

After a few days off (I woke up Saturday morning, ate breakfast, then checked the weather - 87 degrees and 87% humidity — no thank you — and went back to bed), I knew I needed a long run. I took the day off work for my birthday, so an afternoon treadmill session was in store. I told myself to do at least 4, and that 5 or 6 would be good. I got up to 6, and knew I could keep pushing. The gym was so humid but I kept going. Got to 8, and knew I had one more, but thought at that point I should do 10. I was happy with 9, stretched well, showered in super cold water, and wasn't too stiff later in the evening.

October 8 - 5.5 miles (treadmill)

2009-10-09T20:29:00.002-04:00

After skipping the gym Wednesday altogether, after work I decided to do a treadmill run (ridiculously hot outside this week) before going out to dinner. I did 5.5 miles in under an hour, stopping to walk maybe 5 or 6 times for 1 minute. I felt pretty good, except for my right inner shin was bothering me. HR was high, up to 176. I ran mostly 5.8 mph to 6.5 mph.

October 5 - 3 miles

2009-10-05T11:54:00.001-04:00

Up early and on the gym treadmill for 3 miles in 30:30. Felt fine, but didn't want to push it. Did an arm workout afterward.

October 3 - Marine Corp 1/2 Marathon - PR 2:12:22!

2009-10-03T17:40:00.006-04:00

Me, Crystal, Jennifer - pre-race, and Crystal and me afterward with our medals!

I flew back into town yesterday afternoon. I had been going back and forth on whether or not to sign up for the Marine Corp 1/2 Marathon. Well, as of 4:22 p.m., I found myself at 1st Place Sports, signing up and getting my race number and shirt. I figured I could do it seeing as how I managed 10 miles last weekend, including the bridges. I just thought I'd take it slow, run 2:30 to 1 run/walk ratios, and be happy to finish. I got up this morning at 4:55, ate my standard peanut butter and banana toast (2 pieces) and bottle of water, checked the weather (75 degrees, 74% humidity) and got ready to go. After the gun went off I steadily ran the first few miles at a moderately slow pace (10:30) including over the Main Street bridge at mile 1 and over the larger Acosta bridge at mile 2. I ended up running until I hit mile 6, in 60 minutes. I was pleasantly surprised. I walked a little here and there, but kept going. The weather was decent, not too hot, not too cool, but mostly overcast. By miles 8 and 9 I felt good and jogged through most of the course. At mile 6.5 and 11 I took chocolate GUs. Around mile 9 I realized that if I kept up a 10 or 11 minute pace I was set to gain a new personal record. I kept thinking, "I can do this." There was a steel drum band at mile 10 which was great and I ran past a guy in a shirt that said "Pain is weakness leaving the body" to which I assured myself (again) that I could do it. Miles 11 and 12 are on the Riverwalk — staring directly into the bright sun. Must keep going, just deal with it, I told myself. As I sprinted around the corner to the finish, I tripped over the finishing mat as I looked down to stop my watch. I fell, and slid, and above all, felt foolish. I quickly got up, got my photo taken, and frantically searched for water. After that I felt fine. My time was 2:12:22, a new personal record, and vast improvement over my Marine Corp 1/2 marathon time last year (2:16:35). I beat my Outback Distance 1/2 time from last year by a mere 17 seconds. I could have done a little better but I didn't want to push it. Overall I was stoked with my finish and so happy I decided to sign up!

October 1 - 4.25 miles in Miami

2009-10-01T20:07:00.001-04:00

Audra and I traveled this week for work (to Orlando and Miami) so Thursday morning we hit our Westin hotel gym and found two neighboring treadmills. It was very humid in the gym but I cranked out 4.25 miles, and Audra did 5. My legs felt fine, and I stopped to walk every 9 minutes or so. Afterward we treated ourselves to breakfast at Einstein Bro. Bagels & coffee and a walk around Coral Gables' Miracle Mile.

September 29 - 2 miles + 3 games full court

2009-09-29T08:13:00.002-04:00

I did not sleep well — at best I got 5 hours of sleep, but met the guys for morning basketball. Ran two miles first on the treadmill without stopping, slowly (5.8 mph), in 21:30. Felt good and back to normal. Then was a captain (picked John, Chris, Jordan and Curry) and played 5-on-4 full-court basketball. I made a few 3-pointers and two 2s but no one was playing exceptionally well today, or hitting a lot of outside shots. Even had a steal!

September 28 - 2 miles + weights

2009-09-28T07:28:00.003-04:00

Was amazed that I actually got up and went to the gym after standing for 6.5 hours straight last night, photographing a wedding at Epping Forest Yacht Club. (and yes, I had cake — hazelnut wedding cake with buttercream frosting, and some of the decadent groom's cake, which was chocolate ganache!) I warmed up with 10 minutes on the bike, then ran 2 miles with Lisa on the treadmill (took it slow — 21:30) and felt okay, surprisingly. Then did arms and back. Debating whether or not I'm "ready" (I know I am mentally) to run the Marine Corp Half Marathon Saturday. It was my first 1/2 marathon last year and I enjoyed it but wondering if I can push past all these injuries and go for it in '09?

September 26 - 10 miles

2009-09-26T09:14:00.004-04:00

Last night had dinner at Blue Bamboo — calamari, salad, and awesome dessert. I was in bed at midnight with my alarm set for 4:55 a.m. Got up, ate peanut butter toast for the first time in ages (seeing as how I've been injured and not running with the Saturday groups) and headed downtown to do 9 miles. I bumped into Cheryl and decided to join a slower group that did a different ratio - 2:30 to 1 instead of 3:30 to 1 that I am used to. The combination of slower pace + this ratio helped me get through, and I knew the group leader, Nancy, from training last year. I was concerned going into it that I may not make it because of all my leg issues lately. But I was determined to try! We started off up and over the Acosta Bridge then ran into San Marco and back over the Acosta. I felt good. It was extremely humid and I was completely soaked at the end (was 81 "feels like 86" with 61% humidity when we started), but managed to pull off an extra mile for 10 instead of the 9. (in 2:03) It was awesome to see the group members who raised their hands today when asked if this was the furthest they've ever run. Then, I thought back to my first 9 mile run — 8 1/2 years ago! Time flies.

September 24 - Basketball + Volleyball

2009-09-26T09:09:00.001-04:00

Got up and did the bike for 15 minutes then played an hour of full court basketball. Made the first 3-pointer so I got to be team captain. I picked up Salem, Byoung and Jordan. I played okay (not as good as Tues.) and made a few shots. After work I had an intramural volleyball game against a good team. We went into it undefeated (5-0) but were missing three of our main players. We played well but lost at the very end of the third game.

August 22 - full court basketball

2009-09-22T17:42:00.002-04:00

Warmed up 15 minutes on the bike then played two games of morning full-court basketball (almost an hour). My legs felt decent, and I was wearing the New Balances. I made the first two shots of the game — both 3-pointers! I hit two more.

August 21 - Gym 1 + 2 miles = 3

2009-09-21T20:40:00.001-04:00

Went to the gym in the morning, did 1 slow mile on the treadmill then rode the bike for 30 minutes and did arms and back weights. After work decided to go for a jog. (in New Balances) Got about 3/4 of a mile out and my shins and calves were on fire. None of this occurred before I went to see the PT/massage therapist a week ago. I stopped, stretched several times, and tried to keep going. No luck. Finished a lackluster 2.20 miles.

August 20 - 3 miles

2009-09-20T20:00:00.001-04:00

After a hot day outside at the Jacksonville Jaguars game (of course we lost), and food in the Touchdown Club, I headed out for a walk. Ended up doing 3 miles and they weren't very fast. It was nice just to be outside as the sun was going down and finally starting to cool off a little!

August 19 - 3.25 miles + 2 miles

2009-09-19T19:59:00.000-04:00

I woke up, and then walked 3.25 miles. Started to get hungry so finished early. Later in the evening I did a 2 mile jog, with walk breaks. Legs still feel heavy and my knees are still bothering me. Very, very frustrating. Overall 5.25 miles.

August 18 - 2 miles

2009-09-18T21:01:00.002-04:00

Slept in this morning, and had a going-away gathering after work. (chocolate cupcake, chips and salsa, and water — no beer!) Waited for the humidity to drop but it was very hot and humid today. Ran 2 miles and after 1 mile my legs felt extremely heavy and my lower calves to the back of my heels were tight. I stopped several times to stretch. Just wasn't feeling it, at all. Surprised how nice the weather was and how easy 9.11 miles were a week ago but couldn't even push myself to 3 miles today.

September 16 - Volleyball + 5 miles

2009-09-17T21:20:00.003-04:00

Played and won our intramural sand volleyball game after work, then Audra and I ran 5 miles with 4 to 1 ratios outside in the hot, humid Florida air. Both of my knees hurt a bit, both legs felt heavy and the outer parts of my shins were tight.

September 15 - Basketball

2009-09-15T07:29:00.002-04:00

Warmed up on the bike for 15 minutes with Lisa, then full court basketball with the guys. Legs felt okay. Wasn't making my shots — an off morning.

August 14 - Visit with the Physical Therapist/Massage Therapist

2009-09-14T21:46:00.002-04:00

So today was the big day. I was hoping to find out what is wrong with my knee/IT band. Went to a massage/physicial therapist. She asked a lot of questions, then had me lay down, stand up, sit up — all to see if one leg or one hip was higher than the other. Everything was okay. She then did different massage assessments and, as usual, the same areas were exceptionally tight and/or knotty...upper back, hamstrings (near IT band), calves, etc. There are so many things that could be causing the pains I've been having, she said. Switching shoes, a change in diet, etc. The biggest things to watch for changes are: stress, sleep, salt, sugar and caffeine. Well, I've been stressed, had varying amounts of sleep, and have increased my caffeine consumption lately (lots of Tazo hot tea at work!). I also have tight muscles. So, unfortunate for me, I left with no clear answers and $85 less in my bank account.

September 11 - 9.11 miles in memory of 9/11

2009-09-11T21:00:00.004-04:00

Slept in this morning after eating like a crazy person at the Sulzbacher 11th Annual "Transformations" event last night downtown, and wasn't sure if I should run tonight on my own or wake up early and run 7.5 miles with the group tomorrow. I set out tonight and finished the first mile in 9:30 as I ran past Summer, who was coming back from a run. I ran a 3.5-mile down-and-back course, stopping for ice water at the turnaround point. Ran back, adding some other parts on after the initial 7. Was very thirsty again. Told myself I'd ask the next person for water. Found a lady and her young daughter getting out of their SUV in a neighborhood. She brought me a 8 oz bottle of cold Zepherhills and I was stoked. Kept going. Ran around a school in search of a water fountain at mile 7.5 and there was not one to be found, even by the playground. Kept going. Knew I wanted to do 9.11 miles in honor of 9/11. Finished the 9.11 miles in a respectable 1:32, stretched, drank an orange Gatorade, showered, and iced both knees. Felt fairly good throughout the run. Temperature was 84, humidity at 60% and a steady breeze the entire run. I look back a week ago when I set out to run and before reaching a mile, I had to stop and walk home, thinking I was done. I think about today and being able to do all 9 miles — 1/3 of a marathon — without too much effort.

September 10 - Basketball

2009-09-10T12:14:00.003-04:00

After last night's run I wasn't sure I'd make it to the gym this morning. Didn't sleep well but was up early. Played a quick game of freethrow line knockout with Chris and Curry to find my right knee really hurting. There weren't enough players for full court at first, thank goodness, so we played 3-on-3 half court and then four-on-four full court. My knee was fine for the hour we played. I scored a few 3s including a game opening NBA 3-pointer (waaay outside the 3-point arc).

September 9 - 7 miles

2009-09-09T22:11:00.002-04:00

Volleyball game tonight was forfeit so wasn't much of a game. Decided to go for a run afterwards since it was relatively nice outside. First mile or so was okay, mile two was a bit tougher and my legs felt heavy, and by the end of three I was starting to find my rhythm. The little bit of knee pain I had in the first few miles went away for the most part. IT band wasn't hurting but felt a little stiff. Miles 4, 5, 6, 7 were good, and at the end I felt as if I could do more. The weather was awesome...fall seems to be making an appearance, finally! I stopped to walk occasionally. Towards the end I was running around a 9:40 pace.

September 7 - 5 miles + 4 hours of sand volleyball

2009-09-07T14:16:00.004-04:00

After 4 1/2 HOURS of sand volleyball yesterday (exhausting, but fun), and no attempts to run for two days, I saw an overcast sky and decided to lace up the sneakers - at 11:30 a.m. I ran the first mile in under 10 minutes, then walked 1 minute, then ran to 2 miles, and the sun began to beat down. Despite a reading of 82 "feels like 86" and 67% humidity, it was unreasonably hot, and I didn't have much water yesterday. I got to mile 3.5 and needed water badly. I stopped in an ice cream shop, got a cup of ice water, and continued on. The mistake came just before mile 4, when I decided to add on a .8 loop. I did part of it, and was dying, so I stopped to walk for a few. Legs felt fine — no pain — but exceptionally heavy. I then jogged the rest of the way, completing 5 miles in 54 minutes. I stretched, had the best tasting 20 oz. of orange Gatorade ever, and took a warm shower. Tough and tiring today but no knee pain at least. Showered, napped, then took off for four hours of sand volleyball. Exhausted.

September 6 - 4.5 hours of sand volleyball

2009-09-06T18:30:00.000-04:00

Not as hard as running but still a good workout and a fun time — I played four and a half hours of sand volleyball. Played four on four, three on three, and two on two...the most tiring of all. Sometimes I miss team sports. I also miss the chance to run to my full potential due to these injuries. Running is more like free therapy, allowing me to run down a bad day or a crazy situation, whereas team sports make me more carefree. I love that I've been able to play basketball and volleyball so much lately.

September 4 - A very sad 3 walked miles

2009-09-04T19:22:00.002-04:00

I made the mistake of looking at an online intermediate half marathon training schedule today. It's a month out from the Marine Corp 1/2 in Jacksonville and the schedule I found said to do 9 miles. Despite the 10 I did a few weeks ago I have been in the 4-6 range. I thought, I can do 9, sure no problem. I set out this afternoon (overcast skies) and made it about 7 minutes in before the nagging right knee pain began. I walked for a few, thinking it'd work itself out. I started to jog again and there it was - immediately. I turned around. I tried one more time and couldn't do it. There were a few tears, mostly out of being so hopeless, but I headed back and walked until I reached 3 miles, and came in, stretched, showered and iced. Sometimes I think I should just give up and find a new sport. I somehow haven't had any IT problems on my left leg lately, where this all began but now I have new pain in a new spot. It somehow doesn't seem fair.

September 3 - 4 miles (elliptical) + 4 miles (bike)

2009-09-03T20:19:00.002-04:00

Rode the bike this morning with Lisa for a bit then got roped into full court basketball. Having guys tell you they "need" you to play is a good feeling but I thought I was getting out of it today. Not quite. Sometimes being the only girl can be intimidating but most of these guys are cool. They even pass me the ball, and today I was hitting almost all my shots, including a bankshot three-pointer. (not too shabby) My team won 3 close games. Great workout for an hour of running up and down court - HR was up in the 180s. Wore my new shoes, and my right knee was killing me the first few times up and back, making me think there was no way I'd last. It went away and I was able to sprint. Legs still felt funny though. After work I did a few minutes on the treadmill then decided elliptical was a better idea so I did 4 miles (41 min.) there and then 4 miles on the bike.

September 2 - 3 miles

2009-09-02T21:02:00.003-04:00

New kicks, round two.

Volleyball game got rained out after work so went and exchanged my Brooks Glycerin 7's for a pair of New Balance 758s. My friend Owen, part owner at Jacksonville Running Company, let me try a few pairs of shoes on and decided these would be good to try. I got home, went for a 3 mile jog in the mist (almost rain) and they were okay. Definitely need to give them another try. Ran about 9:45 pace and felt okay, legs just feel heavy. What is the deal?

August 31 - 5 + 3 = 8 miles

2009-08-31T19:09:00.002-04:00

Got to the gym early this morning, and started on the treadmill about 10 minutes before Lisa, who was joining me. Wore the Etonic Prayas instead of the new Brooks. The first mile was tough and very humid. Left side of upper chest was hurting, and felt heavy. Continued on. Ran to two miles, then walked about 1 minute every 5 minutes. Three miles. Chest still having pains. Four miles. Katrine then hopped on a nearby treadmill and it was great to see her at this point. Lisa was doing 6. I aimed for 5, and survived. Very tough run overall - probably one of my worst. Legs felt okay. HR was high throughout, about 160, upwards to 166. Ran slightly slower than usual, 5.8 to 6.0. Stretched well after and played two games of 3-point knockout with Chris and Curry. After work it seemed less humid out (45%, 87 degrees "feels like" 90) so I laced up the Brooks this time and set out with the IT band strap on my right leg instead of left, as just above my knee cap was hurting a bit. It slid off by the half-mile mark. I continued on, running 3 miles (stopping twice to walk) in 29 minutes. I felt good, chest didn't hurt and legs felt heavy but decent.

August 29 - 5 miles (walked)

2009-08-29T11:40:00.000-04:00

Alarm was set for 4:55 a.m., just in case I felt like getting up to run 6 miles with the group. Technically I had already completed the 6 yesterday so I could sleep in. I went to bed at 12:45, which wouldn't give me too many hours of sleep. Somehow, someway, I woke up on my own at 4:50 a.m. - 5 minutes pre-alarm. I made the executive decision to go back to sleep. I got up around 9 then went for a 5-mile walk in 1:17. I'm not certain I like the new shoes (Brooks Glycerin 7) - my right leg on the front, near the shin, is bothering me.

August 28 - 6 miles

2009-08-28T20:05:00.002-04:00

I felt good and decided to aim for 6 on the treadmill. My favorite treadmill has finally been fixed and was open. The first mile was tough. By mile 3 I felt better. My HR was low overall but both knees were bothering me a little. I was staying around 6 mph. I stopped to walk after mile 1 and 2. I stretched, and rubbed my right leg, to the right of my shin. By mile 4 I felt better. Mile 5 came around and I felt a little hungry but figured I could make it to 6. I did, and then stretched well afterwards. My HR wasn't too high but my legs felt a little heavy overall.

August 27 - 5 (humid) miles

2009-08-27T20:25:00.003-04:00

I couldn't get up this morning. Snooze x 8. I finally dragged myself to the gym (late) and managed 1 mile on the treadmill and then got off and attempted the elliptical which bored me after 3 minutes. Did the bike successfully for 10 minutes. Chatted with Lisa, who has also had a tough time this week (it must be in the air?). Then talked to Katrine, who is competing in a huge triathalon this weekend. Came home, feeling highly unsatisfied with my brief and uneventful gym session and attempted a jog in the uber-humid Florida morning. Made it 1.5 miles and quit. Showered and went to work. After work I had a sand volleyball game (we won 2-0, remaining undefeated at 4-0) and then came home and under the overcast, humid skies, jogged 3.5 miles to total 5 miles for the day in 51:30. Ran into neighbor Nathalie, who is training with the Galloway program this year, and she suggested I try pilates to help strengthen my IT band. Perhaps that's something new to add to my list!

August 24 - 5 mile (walk)

2009-08-24T21:26:00.000-04:00

My legs felt exceptionally heavy for a Monday morning, so at the gym I did 15 minutes on the elliptical (brutal! boring!) and then walked uphill on the treadmill for 10 minutes, then finished with 10 minutes on the bike. (just as boring) I stretched well and headed on my way. After work I walked five miles in 76 minutes.

August 23 - 5 miles (3 run/2 walk)

2009-08-23T16:28:00.001-04:00

I know, I know...I probably should rest after a 10-miler but the weather was great Sunday morning so I set out in my new Brooks Glycerin 7's for a test run. It was cloudy and somewhat cool (relatively speaking, of course). I ran 3 miles, and at times was at 8:30 pace. I stopped to walk four times. I was happy to finish 3.1 miles in 29 minutes. Then walked two miles since the sun came out towards the end of my run.

August 22 - 10 MILES - DOUBLE DIGITS AGAIN!

2009-08-22T11:23:00.005-04:00

Crystal, Kristie, Caron, Sonya

Finally, I believe running "success" is back in the air. Looking back through my blog postings, I realized I hadn't done a double digit run since May 31! The last time I ran 9 I was hurting at mile 7.5. Today I didn't "hurt" at all. After toast with peanut butter, I met about 11 people for a 5:30 a.m. 6-mile run through downtown over both bridges (it had been awhile) and it went surprisingly well. We did 3:1 run/walk ratios and about a 9:40 pace. I ran up and over the first with ease. The pace of the group picked up by the time we crossed the larger bridge but I was still okay. We then did three miles with the Galloway group, and then I ran one more with Crystal, to round it out at ten. I wore my IT strap the entire way, adding a layer of prewrap underneath to attempt to keep it from slipping. It wasn't as hot or humid as last Saturday, thankfully. I am crossing my fingers for continued success and recovery...

August 19 - 3.1 miles

2009-08-19T21:20:00.003-04:00

I had a breakfast to attend this morning, meaning not enough time for the gym. After work, my team won its second intramural sand volleyball match. I was already sweaty and decided to head out for a 2 to 3 mile run. I walked about 4 minutes total, finishing 3.1 miles in 29:46. I was up to 8:30 pace at some points and I'm not sure how, as I wasn't trying to run fast. Most of the run was around 9 to 9:15 pace. I felt good, and it was very humid - 77% and 87 degrees.

August 18 - 5 + 3 = 8 miles

2009-08-18T19:33:00.000-04:00

Had a late dinner last night with dad (in town from CA) at Carabba's - mussels, bread w/ olive oil, and a big salad with shrimp and scallops. Ran five miles on the treadmill and the first one didn't feel great but by mile 2 I felt fine. My new IT strap kept sliding down since I was sweating, which was annoying, but hopefully I can figure out how to make it stay in place. I ran a mile walked a minute, completing 5 miles in 50:40. I got up to 6.5 mph at the end, and my HR hovered around 155-165 for most of the run. I did arms and back afterwards, and made sure to stretch throroughly.

After work I needed some fresh air so I walked to the dumpster (quarter mile) and then decided to jog back home. I felt good, and kept going - completing 3 miles in 31 minutes. Not bad considering I walked the first quarter mile. I was surprised I got up to 9:20 pace, but ran most of it at 9:40. It actually felt considerably nice outside, with a slight breeze - 86, 67% humidity.

Augus 16 - 4 miles (walked)

2009-08-16T16:45:00.002-04:00

Today is technically considered a "rest" day but the outdoors was calling my name, so I walked four miles in about an hour.

August 15 - 5 miles

2009-08-15T09:28:00.004-04:00

First time running back-to-back days (6 yesterday, 5 today) but I felt pretty good, despite the heat and humidity of a 7 a.m. group run. It was good to see everyone from last year and meet the new people training with the Galloway program. I ran with Kristie in group four, and we kept about a 10 minute pace, with 3:1 walk breaks. My IT band strap kept falling down due to sweat, so I took it off around mile 3 and ran without it. I iced afterwards, and on the ride home.

This was a "small" bag of ice. It was great to see Hannah - hadn't seen her since the marathon in February when we finished hand-in-hand!

August 14 - 6 miles

2009-08-14T19:55:00.002-04:00

After not a lot of sleep last night and a teambuilding activity for work today (read: 2 white chocolate macadamia nut cookies, brownies, salad, ribs, pasta salad, salad, kettle cooked chips), I took an hour nap and then headed to the gym. I opted for a treadmill on the opposite side of the fitness floor. My new running shoes aren't in yet so I wore a new pair of Etonic Prayas I had with my old inserts, and my IT band strap. I felt okay for the most part but it was ridiculously humid in the gym and my HR was up to 165. I ran mostly at 10-minute mile pace. I walked a minute here and there, and completed 6 miles in about 64 minutes. My right IT band was even tight. I made sure to stretch both afterwards.