Let's Do This

2020 was definitely trying in many ways...for all of us. COVID hit which changed the way we lived most all of the year. But for me personally, I've had many trials for a while. It lent itself to much pain due to Morton's neuromas in both feet which were crippling at times. I've fought those things as long as I'm going to. Nope, I'm not giving in; on the other hand, I'm going to schedule treatment on a regular basis so I can have as little downtime as possible. I won't go into detail about the other things but I'm moving forward now. 

At the end of 2020, I began Planet Fitness and was beginning to make strides but got sidetracked with issues that caused me almost three months from going. So...I'm here to say, "chin up", and "you got this". I've been back to PF for a couple weeks now and am feeling better and better. My energy levels are improving. On days I don't go to PF, I use my trusty treadmill or head outside. Also, I'm using the exercise equipment I own to provide a good workout at home. Yes, I have enough to warrant a nice workout. 

I'm working on weight loss and have lost 15 pounds since the first of the year. I still have 10+ pounds that I want to get off. My diet has been horrible consisting mostly of fried foods, sweets [my biggest downfall] and just all out overeating. Not a good, healthy lifestyle for sure!! I know better and have generally lived better but when you get on the train "speeding" in the wrong direction, it's hard to get turned around and STAY corrected without getting derailed! I have got started in the right direction in the last couple of years but couldn't maintain it...usually due to one physical issue after another stopping my exercise completely; hence, getting me going into the wrong direction again. 

I am anxious to get back to running and am making good strides in that direction. Races are now beginning to be available. Though it will take me a while to get back to racing condition, as soon as I'm able to run a 5k, I'll be heading out. And, yes, I'm eyeing distance racing by the end of the year. I just love it so! 

I've joined a few challenges to help keep me motivated and move every day at least a mile and so far, so good. I hope you find something that keeps you motivated to keep you healthy. So, as you head in the right direction I leave you with 

Heads up and go
Run 4 It

Being positive in 2020

The last couple of years have presented me with lots of challenges putting my running on the back burner. I'm up and going again...with more of "me" than ever before and starting ALL over. I'm good with that because I wouldn't have changed a thing during this time. My family is the most important thing to me and I'd do it again and again.

I've begun Weight Watchers again...yes, again! And, I hope I can stay with it until this weight comes off...OR...I begin distance running again and that should take and keep it off. Because I DO want to do my half's again. Boy, have I missed those!

For now, my main plain is to stay positive regardless what comes my way. I will admit that I'm not totally strong in this area.

We got an RV at the end of 2019 so we'll be on the road a little more than before; hence, another challenge to stay moving and eat better. We're hoping this will afford us the opportunity to do races on the MS. Gulf Coast again with that running club; which we rejoined last week. I wish I could say that this will be as easy as before but I'm going at this from the opposite direction. Before, I lost the weight, felt great, started walking, then running, then running distance.....and, now, I'm run/walking with planned races in the near future [to keep me going], feel horrible and trying to lose more weight than before. Oh, well...it is what it is! LOL.

My health has got to take priority with my running/walking second. Trying to eat correctly is going to be my biggest challenge because I'm not fully "in" yet like I was before. But, I'm trying. My reflux is bad and I've been told that weight plays an important part in this. I didn't have reflux until I gained this nasty weight.

One of my goals this year is to join monthly challenges. If the one presented isn't one that I feel I can stick with, I'll pull out one I've done in the past and do it. These are challenges and I always feel good about my accomplishment when the month is over...and stronger: mentally and physically.

I've signed up for two races a while back thinking I would be in better condition when they got here...but I'm not. One is this weekend at the Casino Bridge 5k and whether I run much or not, I'll be out there doing the best I can whatever it is. And, I'm going to put a smile on my face and take whatever I end up with. The following weekend is the Double Bridge 15k. I know, I know...how in the world am I going to do that?? Well, again, I signed up early and just "knew" I would be ready to run most of it. Now, that's not going to happen either. This is the first year on the new bridge and I'm going to do it if I have to crawl to the Finish Line. I can hardly wait. I missed it the past two years and it's one of my favorite races. I got in 6 miles last week and plan to get in at least 8 this week. Normally, I wouldn't do this because you're setting yourself up for injury but since I'll be walking more than I want to, I believe it will be alright. Yep, I'll be the tortoise. A tortoise with a big ole smile on my face...because I'll be out there. I do hope that I'll be able to do a half or two by year end with these races under my belt; that is, if I don't encounter any injuries along the way.

If and when I fail, I will not put myself down like I have so many times. I'm a beginner again and I will overcome. I will NEVER give up...no, not ever!! For those out there that may be struggling like I am, let's hold hands and know that we're not alone. So, let's get out there and

Run 4 It

2018 Recap

Seems like all of a sudden the 2018 year is ending. Though it didn't go like I had hoped it would, I'm thankful to end the year better than it could have been. Looking back over this year and the last, I am amazed that I did so much. Really thought it was awful...but I kept on going...and before I knew it things were accomplished even if it was later than the deadline. Most things were done with pain or injury.

This year has definitely been a trial...the entire year. Below are some of the things that I accomplished along with the injuries and pains I experienced.

Challenges Completed:
Jesus Virtual, /Spring 150, Summer 175, Fall 200, Winter 175........Monthly: Hula Hoop, Arm Circles [more than once], Planks [more than once] and Squats.

Rocking Boot Camp.

600.25 miles Run
49.92 miles Biked

Injuries/Pains:
Hip and elbow [first of the year], both knees after riding bike with seat too low [12 miles] [spring], Morton's Neuroma in left foot [fall/winter].

Races:
Casino Bridge 5k
Bloody Mary 5k
Don McCloskey 5k
Shrimp Festival 5k
Run for Hope 5k
Battleship 12k [lots of pain]
Seville Quarter Turkey Trot 5k
MS Gulf Coast Half [lots of pain]

I wanted so much more; for one thing not to be hurt nearly the whole year. On the other hand, I am thankful for all that was accomplished. As I get ready to close the book on 2018, I will actually remember it fondly. Yes, fondly. After all, it added another square to my quilt and made me more of who I am [stronger].

There are several things I would like to achieve in 2019. After getting my foot well, I hope to do more good things. I'll add these Goals and Achievements to my blog once things get better cause I don't know how long that will be. I want to encourage each and every one of you to never give up...keep on going...because...

Battleship 12k and "Another" Issue

Let me start by saying I've been building my miles each week and doing well. It was a run/walk but I was determined to do the plan I had been using for half marathon training. Then last Monday........my left foot became so painful I could hardly stand it. For over a year, the toes on my left foot would go to sleep, tingle, go numb followed by pain. Monday was the end of the rope. Very shortly after I began, the numbness and pain began, skipping the sleep and tingle stage. I had 9 miles to do. This process leading up to pain usually starts after about 5 miles. I finished my mileage; and the first thing I did when I got home was call a Sports Medicine doctor for an appointment. Luckily, they were able to get me in on Thursday; I was afraid it would take a couple of weeks. X-rays didn't show a fracture but it wasn't ruled out since they are hard to detect on x-rays. Upon examination, he pressed on the bottom of my left foot underneath the 3rd toe and I thought I was going to go through the roof; it hurt SO bad. He touched the exact spot and hardly pressed at all. There was also pain between the 3rd and 4th toes. The diagnosis I was given was Morton's Neuroma. I had been looking on the Internet and thought it might be that. I have hardly been able to walk during the week. I was given some pads to put in my shoes. I tried to use them and either I can't get it "right" or they don't work. I don't know. I posted on Facebook about it and got some good comments including which shoes that are good for MN.

As the week went along, we found that there are things you can do to help: to include new shoes or special inserts. But one thing we saw is that you can cut a hole at the spot where the neuroma is to relieve the pressure. We took one pair of shoes I hardly wore [though new] and Kent did that...and you know...it worked!! So I put them on and did a trial run on Saturday morning to see if I should do the Battleship 12k the following day. Up until then, I thought it was just donated money and a new shirt.

The Race
The day before I headed straight for Running Wild to check out some Altra running shoes. The first pair felt good. Tried on the Torin Knit 3.5 and I thought I had died and gone to heaven! They felt amazing! I went outside and jogged down the block and back and was sold. These will be the next pair I own. I wore them out and the rest of the time to give them a good "try" and see if I still liked them. All I could think of was why didn't I go check these out before now. I never wear or try anything new the day of a race. With the zero foot drop, I was a tiny bit sore from wearing them that afternoon. But at least I had the shoes Kent "fixed" that I could wear at the race.

The main thing was...I was going to race and I was hardly able to get out of my recliner until two days before. Several things made that day special. One was that I was actually going to try to finish the race [with lots of walking, of course], see a lot of friends from my hometown in Mississippi and see my local friends. And, today, I was actually at the Starting Line getting ready to do the race.

I was able to connect with Deleica and Krista and chat some before the race. It was SO good to see them. Temp was in the low 40's but clear, no rain and very little wind. Perfect!

Deleica, Kathy, Me and Krista

I got to thinking that my "local" friends were there, too, and started looking around for them. Well, there they were about 20' from us. So, I got to visit with them a few minutes. Then, all of a sudden, the dang cannon went of to start us; it caught me by total surprise. Without thinking, I started my watch and nowhere near the timing mat. So crazy, ha!

I was hoping for and shooting for being able to run the first mile. It was mostly downhill and thought that would help. I had to try real hard not to run hard as I normally would have as I didn't know if I could even finish the race with my foot problem. The first mile was a breeze; so I kept going...and going...and going. Before I knew it I had RUN a 5k [3.1 miles] without stopping. I took it real slow and it was easy. Toward the end of the 4th mile, my foot started wanting attention; my toes started feeling like they were going numb. So, I slowed down but kept running. By the 6th mile...yes, I said SIX miles!!!!]...it was getting worse. I told myself if I could to a 10k [6.2 miles] I would be happy, VERY happy. Well, it eased up; then I thought slow down more and maybe I could make it entirely. No way, right?? It wasn't long after reaching the 10k mark that my foot started getting painful. Surely, I can make it...surely, I can ignore this, focus on others around me and the Finish Line and listen to my music more intently...surely, this would just "go away". Unfortunately, that didn't happen. After we turned off the road into the Battleship Park, they directed us onto the grass in front of the park. Grass??? NOOOOOO!! The third step I took just about took me down!! Extreme pain! I began walking but really wanted to run; it was run a few steps and walk a few. My ankles have never been strong and I am very tenderfooted; with those things weighing against me I just didn't stand a chance in running it all with already flared up foot pain. I was SO close! Every step my foot made hit that very tender neuroma!! I actually yelled out once and a lady came up behind me asking if I needed help...even to get aid for me; but as a strong-willed runner, I told her no, but thanks and that "I was going to finish this". We high-fived and she went on. Several people were complaining big time about the grass; how it was hard for your footing, slippery and muddy. I felt like I wasn't the only one suffering. Just very hard to run it. MANY were walking. I admire those that aren't affected by things like this, I really do. I can't say how far this part was but I'd guess it was almost a half mile. A lady I came up next to just before getting on the concrete was so discouraged. She was struggling so hard trying to get through the grass. I encouraged her as much as I could and challenged her to run hard when we hit the pavement. When we got to the concrete, I stepped out on it and felt good again. I tore out running as fast as I could trying to make up as much as I could even though I had lost so much time in that section. We ran together the rest of the way. My encouraging her to run harder and harder pushed me to do the same. It felt great!

Well, the race was totally different that I had foreseen. Running was not an objective to achieve but a method to get from start to finish whenever I could do it. I had a negative split....IN REVERSE...ha! My speed got longer and longer due to the pain but I see this race as a huge success.

#1: I actually made it TO the race.
#2: Met up with friends I had hope to see from my home town.
#3: Caught up with local friends.
#4: Best and foremost: I ran it ALL except for a very little bit [maybe a .25 mile total].

I am super excited. It was worth the pain I endured. There's nothing like finishing strong...which is my motto. That and "Never Give Up". Here are some photos taken. Enjoy...

I love the long sleeve shirt...and my name on the bib.

This is the back. 

Then I found out these are the runners' names. I hope you can see mine; it's the best pic I could get.

I love the medal. It had glittery parts to it.

I hope you can read this. It's beautifully written.

Deleica looking good and strong.

I'm nearing the Finish Line...not much further to go.

We were given this just before entering the Park. 

Real touching when you run so close to these flags! 

Finishing strong...AND am "off the ground". Wow! Always love this! 

Finishing friends: Krista, Kathy, JoAnn, Nestor, Me and Deleica

I've missed this crazy guy. 

Marsha and Me. Love this girl!!

We looked through the park some. It's really a nice memorial park for local military. Next time we'll go through the ship and other things.

Flags from different countries our military fought in the Korean War.

It was a great day. Thanks for hanging in there with me in this long post. I had more pictures but chose these to not bore everyone with all I had. I love running and am glad that I'm gradually getting back to it. I really hope these new shoes will do me good. Until next time, go

Run 4 It

Shrimp Festival 5k & Hope Haven Run for Hope 5k

I'm still slow...ugh! But I'm pushing through. I'll lose weight one week then gain it all back the next. Seems I can't stay with anything any more. Many nights are restless and sometimes carrying over into the following morning making me sluggish that day. At least, I'm not giving up. NO, I won't give up!

I love the race environment and that's what is keeping me going now. I'm so glad that my husband supports me wholeheartedly and encourages me to go out there and do what I can...whatever that may be. Seeing those at races that you don't see at any other time is always so nice. People of all ages and abilities. Some stronger than they were and some struggling. You know, runners ARE family and everyone encourages everyone! We're all happy people!

We all wait patiently for the gun to go off and set us on our way to begin the race. These race reports will be short and sweet.

Shrimp Festival 5k
A couple of things I like about this race is that there are a lot of people there and you don't feel like everyone's watching you, and I love the Back Country Trail System. I met up with Susan and Moe before the race. Moe was doing the 10k and Susan was doing the 5k, like me. We got off to a good start. I really felt good...even when we had 2 treacherous bridges to cross. The BCT staff are repairing the two bridges that we had to cross. They just laid the new boards on top of the existing ones raising it 1"-2" higher and they were all scattered around. It wasn't smoothed out and was up and down the entire bridge[s]. I'm so glad I didn't fall!! That kind of thing usually takes me down no matter how much I try to watch my footing. After-race food was pretty good. I was glad that I did as well as I did. As it turned out Susan got 1st place, I got 3rd place and Kent got 2nd place in the 5k. Moe placed 1st in the 10k. I was pleasantly surprised ... but I'll take it! A win is a win, right?!

Hope Haven Run for Hope 5k
This is a nice race, fast and flat. I hope one day to smoke it. I shoot for my best on race day, whatever that may be. There were only a few people that did it. Jean, Moe and Kent all received awards. Most of the people that ran in it was in my age group...you'd figure! But that's okay. It's such a good charity but wasn't advertised. I think those that showed up had done it previously and knew to look for it.They are making changes and hopefully more people will know about it next year and those that had run it previously will receive reminders that it's coming up. They have nice after-race food, too.

One positive thing about these races, I'm improving. This is exciting to me. I've cut my time every race since September. My goal is to run a race totally. I miss that SO much!! I never thought that would be a goal since I've run from the beginning, this kinda hurts my pride. But I WILL DO IT!! Yes, I will.

For those that are starting out, keep moving. And, for those that have had setbacks [like me], keep moving. It's always better than doing nothing. We got it, folks. So, go out there and

Run 4 It

Don McCloskey 5k

We watched the weather a few days before signing up for the Don McCloskey 5k in Pensacola. It's been unseasonally warm this year. The deadline to sign up was getting closer and closer and there was only online registration available. The forecast was in the 60's on raceday; I was so excited. So...we signed up at the last minute. The week of the race, the forecast completely changed - upper 70's, lower 80's!! I was just sick. Summer races are totally out due to the heat and humidity and now we've signed up for a race that's going to be just that. Okay...I decided to go and enjoy it. I knew it was a large race and there would be a ton of people so I wouldn't be last coming in regardless of how hard it would be to run.

The morning of the race came and there was a little overcast to start the race but it quickly dissipated. I did my best and tried not to worry about anyone or anything else. I was hoping to do better in this race than the one I did earlier in the month but not sure now. The course is a good one with one section of a grade that's a little tough but it's short lived and the rest is totally flat.

I knew my friend, Moe, was going to be there but hadn't seen her yet and she didn't know I was going to be there. I started a little further back in the pack since there were so many people. After the first mile was over; I had run the entire mile and was still running. It wasn't long before Moe snuck up behind me. I had no idea she would be behind. We ran together a little while but I stopped for water and she eased on. She ended up having a good race but was one out from placing. Hated that for her. I finished "okay"; not what I had hoped for. Kent did pretty good placing 2nd in his age group. Go, Honey!

When we got home, I downloaded my watch and was pleasantly surprised. My first mile was great! I hadn't done that well in a long time. The other splits weren't as strong. I walked more but much not as long as I did in the last race. When it was all said and done, I had beat my time by 2:06! I was shocked. And, needless to say, very happy. TWO minutes faster!! Not a wash out at all. 

I hope I can keep strong. I do believe my trekking class is really helping me get strong. I look forward to it twice a week. I wish I loved biking like I love running and swimming as much as biking. Guess everyone has their "first love". Don't get me wrong, I still love my Trek bike and am so glad I chose to get a good road bike. It makes it more fun to ride than ever before.

My plan is to work on solid running and, second, to increase my miles to improve endurance for the half coming up at the end of the year. I got in 8 miles last week. Whatever your running goals are, never give up and keep going forward and last of all go

Run 4 It

Never give up!

Well, this seems to be the most appropriate title for this reading, "Never Give Up!". It's been a very hard year with unexpected illness several months, running/walking, no running/no walking, injury, discouragement...well, you name it if it means taking a few steps backward, it happened.

I am trying to regain some sort of easy running again, which at the time WILL include periodic walking. But...I miss running soooo much!! Weight gained hasn't helped anything at all. I'll say that in regard to these two things, I've been running a little more than walking and I've started back to trekking which helps me tremendously with confidence. I'd lost about all I had. Last week, I started back to Weight Watchers, which I KNOW works...and hope I can make myself weigh in every week until I get to my goal weight again. In one week's time, I've lost 4.4 pounds and am happy...very much...about this. During this week, there were a couple of disruptions which included pretty bad eating and I honestly do not know how I lost it. Instead of picking this thing to pieces, I've decided to take it for what it's worth and go forward.

Refocusing my efforts and missing the race scene so much, Kent and I decided to sign up for the Bloody Mary 5k this Saturday. Weather reports as of right now is absolutely terrible...70% rain! Of course, this is announced AFTER we signed up. Yikes!! I've never started a race IN the rain before. But I really want to do this. With that said, I'm planning on doing it if I have to walk it all. I miss the race atmosphere and the excitement all around.

My fast running may be on hold for a while but I'll keep trying. Getting motivated again!

UPDATE: 09/01/18  This morning we did the Bloody Mary 5k. While making pre-race announcements, the rain came pouring down. Yes, I was ready. Had my car key in a plastic bag as well as my iPod Shuffle. I was afraid I might have to run without my music. When I started running, I used music and I can hardly bear to think that I might have to do a race without it. My plan worked great. Through the downpour, nothing got wet but us - from head to toe. The race got started and it wasn't long before it stopped. Beside the humidity, it was all good. I wanted to run the first mile and do what I could after that. The first mile went great; no push, just slow and steady. Decided that I would try to run as far as I could. The first mile and quarter, I was so happy. I've not run outside in a long time. Seeing the 1.5 mile mark on my watch was so nice. 1.75 came and went. My goal then was to run solid for two miles. I made it!! Shocked and tired, I started walking some but only just a very little, less than .10 of a mile. I ran/walked until the finished. I can't express how happy I was to be "out" again. Seeing many running friends was so nice. I have really missed the whole experience. Kent did exceptionally well. One great step ahead...now, on to bigger and better things. Let's get this life together again and make it worthwhile!!

Now, go on...get out there...and

Run 4 It

Casino Bridge 5k

This race was a hard decision to make. No, I wanted to do it and signed up ahead of time, as did Kent. But the night before it looked like it was going to come a downpour. The forecast was definitely not favorable. With the flu taking over the country and Kent showing signs of pneumonia, we weren't sure we were going to follow through and do it. We picked up our packets and got to visit with friends from Alabama. Loved seeing them and chatting. Ran into a couple more at dinner that night. The next morning I decided to go ahead and do the 5k since it was short and the rain seemed to be holding off. Kent had decided not to do it.

I really like the shirts. They even have a thumb slit, which I love that feature! I hate to wear gloves any more than I have to. I've worn this shirt a couple of times since and really like it.

Front 

Back

I headed out the hotel and it was at the door that I bumped into my new friend from Boot Camp, Jo Anna. She's the sweetest thing! So I hung with her and some others all the way to the race start. She got a good pic of the group but I can't get it from my phone to my PC without posting it on FB and I didn't want to do that; just wanted it in the race post of the blog. I'm not good with phone pics yet. I didn't have my camera so this race has only a few pictures. 

It was cold and I really felt good; lots of good butterflies flying around inside. I did make a goal for this race: to run it all no matter how slow it may be...and I KNEW it would be hard. That bridge can be a killer. I ran up with friends from Laurel and visited with them briefly as the race began. It wasn't long into the race that we saw Tim's wife taking pictures. Thanks, JoAnn, for being quick on the draw.

Tim and me

Today it wasn't so much the bridge as it was the wind! Man, was it blowing h.a.r.d.!!! Once we got over the water, the east wind was so strong I had to hold my cap the entire time until the turnaround. A few caps went flying in the air; one guy even climbed over the barrier to the traffic and retrieved his. Guess it was one that he really liked, ha!

Coming up to the peak of the bridge

The race didn't go completely over the bridge and I was excited about that. For some reason, I didn't check out the course beforehand; I usually do. The climb up from Ocean Springs is pretty tough. Since it didn't go over the peak very far, it made the race much nicer to run and the return back to the finish was mostly on a downhill grade. After the race got started, all I could think about was how much I wished Kent would have done it. He'd been borderline pneumonia for a couple of weeks and just didn't want to take any chances of being exposed to the flu or getting wet from the rain [which it held off for the race; there was very bad weather headed this way]. As I came back over the bridge, I looked up and there he was!! Kent was in the race and I was so happy! He had turned his cap around to keep from it blowing off and I almost didn't recognize him. He never wears it that way.

This race gave out finisher's medals for the 5k and 10k. I personally think finisher medals should be done for 15k's and further. BUT...I do like the medal.

Next year, I plan to do the 10k. Oh, yeah...the goal?? I did it!! I haven't run 3 miles solid in SO long and I was so happy that I did it and on a challenging course. I've really got to work on the mental part of my running. I'm not real sure but that that's my biggest enemy right now. Of course, blisters, too...but I hope I have that under control. Time will tell. So until next post, continue to

Run 4 It

What's New?

Many people start out the new year with making resolutions only to have broken most of them by the end of February...at the latest. I've toyed with that word for years even changing it to "goals" each year. Looking up the definitions of both, here's what I found. A resolution is a firm decision to do or not do something while a goal is the object of a person's ambition or effort [an aim or desired result]. So it takes goals to achieve resolutions. They go hand-in-hand. I always thought resolutions were impossible to keep but come to find out they failed because they didn't have goals attached to them for achieving. Now, I also think that resolutions are things that should/need to be "changed" as opposed to hitting the bull's eye on a target board. For example, losing so many pounds; not that that's a bad thing. So, let's start the year with resolutions that have goals attached to them so we can hit the bull's eye by a specified date, even if that date has to be revised.

If you'll notice on the right side, I've set goals for 2018. As most of you know, I have a new GOOD bike. So, this year, I want to ride more when it warms up. Along with that, I want to improve my gear shifting. This hasn't come natural for me at all. I struggle with it a lot. This year, I'm hoping to actually get hold of how and when to shift my gears and not be afraid to push through this training period. My goal here is to ride more miles this year and in doing so learn more about shifting. The mileage is accountable and shooting for shifting improvement by the end of the year.

The third one, strength training, is accountable as it can be checked off. Now, to DO it cause it CAN be done. It is necessary, especially as we age, to maintain good core strength. This can be done at Rocking Boot Camp where I attend most days or at home using my body weight. The fourth one, running 600 miles, is like the first, a goal that can be marked off. I WILL accomplish this and hopefully at the same time checking off the fifth goal of running without walking. This will depend on whether I stay injury/sick free. Time will tell on this one; but I will not give up on this.

The next two will be difficult to measure and not sure how it can be done outside of mentally taking strides to improve. I hope I can stop eating processed sugar [cakes, cookies, etc.] completely but know that I won't be able to live up to that one completely; hence, the 75% of the time. My name is Robbie Headrick and I am a sugar-holic. Yes, even something like this takes more mental strength than anything else. Also, I realized that negative thinking seem to surround me. I didn't realize it so much until I was speaking with my trainer about my goals and she "caught" me several times tossing out negative words so easily. I will work on this daily...both of these things.

And, finally, Never, Never Give Up!! As hard as 2017 was for me and as many things as I had to change, it was in looking over the year that I realized that I pushed through some tough times and achieved more than I would have ever guessed I could. Injury after injury attacked me. And, though I never "counted" walking as exercising, my mindset changed. I mean, after all, I AM a runner! Not walker! But in order to "not give up", I pushed through and walked when I couldn't run, even in races. Last year proved that I am strong willed, determined and don't give up easily. I intend to continue this mindset in order to stop the negative thinking that has plagued me for TWO years. Yes, I will do it!

I may not be as young as most but I will do what I can to compete with those my age. Yes, this will be the year of improvement and going forward. Just yesterday, I ran 2.17 miles without stopping. I couldn't believe it! Yes, it can be done and this will be a great year with many new challenges ahead. I will enjoy life more and stop being so critical.

As far as you go, reach and stretch forward and let's both go

Run 4 It

2017 Recap

ADDENDUM: Miles Run/Walked - 616.35
                              Miles Biked - 334.92

This year has really been different than what it was intended to be. At first thought, I want to be quite negative about it but as I look at the year as a whole, I see a lot of positive. I am VERY hard on myself and this is hard for me to work through when issues present themselves or I don't live up to what I expect of myself.

I had such high hopes to jump back on the "lose weight" wagon and hit the races like I did 25 pounds lighter leaving smoke in my path. High ideals just didn't translate like I thought they should.

Signing up for a series was to motivate me, making me stronger and get my running back on track. January and February were the first two of the three half marathons in the series.

As late spring came, I began riding my bike a little more. My like for riding increased. Getting my friends onboard was nice, too. We all rode together many times. We did the Good Life Ride in May. Boy, did I realize that the bike I had was not going to work any more if I wanted to go further than 5 miles. I decided that maybe biking wasn't my thing. I was so much slower than my friends and it became more like work than fun...very frustrating. They all kept asking me to ride with them after this but I really didn't want to. Something inside me wanted to get back on my bike but I couldn't take the embarrassment my rides were giving me. Come July, Kent talked me into purchasing a "good" bike. Now, it's hard for me to want to spend more than my Walmart bike but I knew if I was going to enjoy riding, I needed to take the plunge. After a test ride at Infinity Bicycles and a bit of a push from Kent, I ordered a bike. It was a Trek in beautiful sparkly blue with red/orange accents. When it came in a week later, I rode it on the Backcountry Trails. I was immediately "in love". There's no comparison with a good bike against a big box store's bike.

Ain't she the purtiest thing?? I never knew there would be so much difference in a ride on a good bike. It was smooth as butter. I'm in love!! Before I knew it, I was adding better pedals, lights, riding gloves, a better tire pump and getting new biking shorts and shirt. It's addictive. And, yes, I want a few more things.

Then for eight months, I struggled finding some balance. It was fall that I decided to join a Boot Camp and was scared to death. My body began to change and my running faltered off and on. For the first time in FOUR years, the range of motion of my left shoulder I broke years ago improved drastically. Who would have thought that!

As the end of the year approached, several of my friends were doing the MS. Gulf Coast Marathon Double Down races. I've wanted [for some time] to run back-to-back races...not two long ones but to say that I did two. You know, one of those check-off-the-list things. Knowing I had the last of the three half marathons to do to finish the series, I knew that I would be trained to do this half just two weeks later. So, I signed on. It was so much fun, too, and I'm glad that I did them. I do plan to do this again.

I want to say that the only thing mentioned to accomplish for 2017 was the Run The Beach Half Marathon Series. I felt "DOWN" so much this year but as I look it all over, I find that I accomplished way more than I realized. Here are a few things that was unplanned:

1. Back-to-Back running races
2. Two official bike rides
3. Joined a boot camp [and LOVE it]
4. Ended the year with FOUR half marathons! 2016-1;2015-0; 2014-1; 2013-4. Way excited about this!

I'll end the 2017 year with this:

1. One of my goals was to NEVER give up. I must say I exceeded at this, fighting negativity and depression all through the year. VERY, very proud of keeping on!
2. I didn't quit after a terrible fall in my third half marathon with more than half to go. [See #1]
3. Quitting processed sugars for almost four weeks was huge. Then came Thanksgiving! I will start over again next year in hopes that I can control/stop this 90% of the time.
4. I did not lose the weight.
5. The 1,000 miles goal was not achieved.
6. I joined a boot camp, scared to death, and found I loved the workout, ha!

All in all, it was more successful than it was not. Therefore, I will keep on keeping on and continue to

Run 4 It

Double Down

I've been interested in doing a back-to-back race for a while. Several of my friends have done them but I thought they just weren't "right". I mean, who wants to put their bodies through this, right? It still drew me to want to put it on my bucket list...I know...I'm not "right" either...probably wouldn't call these friends if I WAS right. Anyway, some have done back-to-back long races and I applaud them even though I have no interest in doing that. But I did want to try a short race with a long race. When I saw several friends signing up for the Double Down at the MS. Coast Marathon, I just couldn't resist giving it a try. There was a 5k on Saturday and a Half or Full Marathon on Sunday. Here was my chance. I mentioned it to Kent and he was okay with it and told me to go for it. After all, I would have done a half marathon a couple of weeks before so I should be trained already. Almost immediately after that, I signed up. I was so excited to do this and with friends.

Let me start by saying I didn't think this one was going to happen. Read my last post and you'll definitely know why I said this.  After my fall, it took me a while to get to where I could walk again. The entire week after, I was so sore and beat up. My chest hurt every time I breathed and couldn't lay down to sleep, my knees were painful and my face still looked awful as well as pain over my brow. The second week [and the week of the Double Down] I was feeling better...except that my knees still hurt. I guess I fell flat on my stomach on that bridge because everything hit it and everything was so sore. I've never gotten hurt like this.

I decided that I would go ahead and walk the 5k with Kent, as planned anyway, and see how the ole knees would do. I had basically done NO running with only a very little walking before this weekend. This would determine if I would go ahead with the half on Sunday. Friday a cold front came in with rain and wind. The temperature dropped so much that it actually snowed! Yep, on the coast at the beach...SNOW! It was so pretty even if it didn't stick.

Saturday we headed out to do the 5k. It was an absolutely gorgeous day!! Clear blue skies and temps at 32 with a wind chill of 28...yikes!! Yes, it was cold! We hooked up with several friends and took some quick pics. Here are a few of them:

Nestor, Kent, me and Pete. Photobombed, by who?? LOL 

The Professor, me and Kent after the race.

Me and Diane. Brrrrrr..... 

Alabama running friends. Love these guys! 

Kimberly, Marsha and me. 

Justin, Jojo and Michelle

Heading back to the truck we saw a great photo op. 

5k Finisher's Medal

Sunday was another gorgeous day. I am so happy the rainy weather came in on Friday. The half proved to be another dang cold day but clear, blue skies. I think I was the only one without earmuffs of some sort. Yes, I was cold but I didn't want to worry about carrying it around when I got warmed up so I decided to wear a hoodie and I could pull it up over my head when I got cold or slip it off. I was SO glad to find my hometown friends. I knew they were there but hadn't seen them yet. And, we just "happened up" on each other lining up before the race began.

Deleica, Krista, Frank and me.

Here are some end and after race pics. I was "lucky" enough to get blisters all over the bottom of my feet...again!!! I am really struggling with this. It makes me walk when I don't want to and my gait is completely off. The last mile of the race was going up Interstate 10 curving around and over Highway 90. The grade was tough at such an angle causing me to put all my normal weight on the areas of the blisters!!! I was totally in pain!! All I wanted at this point was just to finish and an Alleve. Needless to say, it was mostly walking at the end for me.

I had on so many clothes but layered just perfectly. 

Here's the Finisher's Medal for the Half.

Several of us connected again afterwards but I didn't have a camera of any kind with me. It was still pretty cold. I found the booth where I picked up my Double Down Finisher's Tray. I am so excited that I could do these races considering the injuries from just a couple of weeks ago.

This was really a nice weekend of running and friends. I LOVED the races! When I get back to running good again...and I WILL...I'd like to return and do this series again. Next time, I hope to see more buddies. Until then,

Run 4 It

1st Series Done

Let me start out with a little catch-up. We love racing in the fall/winter months, and we neither one are in good racing ability this year. With the excitement of all the races popping up every weekend, it was hard not to do some even if it was poor for us. I had been working on my run/walk method. On October 14th, we signed up for the Shrimp Festival. Kent the 5k and me the 10k. On November 11th, we did the Foley Rotary Oyster 5k. Then on November 18th, we headed to Pensacola for the Turkey Trot 5k which we love doing. Kent got 1st place there and nearly all my friends placed as well. It was a fun day.

Present: What better series to do for me than a half marathon one. I love that distance! The Kaiser Half on November 25th will finish it. I was excited about completing my first series, getting an extra medal and a jacket. The temp was perfect...in the low 40's, sunny and NO wind.

The race started well. I felt good and was going well. As we turned off the beach onto Rosemary Dunes Trail [a little over 6 miles], I was excited to get back on the system. I just love running and biking the Back Country Trail System. For about a half mile or so, I began feeling some tingling/numbness in my little toes on my left foot. Trying to figure out how to make it quit I tried to alter my weight to relieve some pressure. As I was thinking about what to do, all of a sudden, I tripped and fell...on one of those wooden bridges. Oh, Lordy!! I fell so hard, I heard my entire body body-slam that bridge with my head hitting it, too. This was NOT good; I was hurting so bad. I felt blood from my head to my knees. I felt my sunglasses slam into my head. Several sweet, kind runners stopped to offer assistance. Not only was I dazed, I couldn't get up easy. Several wanted me to go at the start of Rosemary to get some aid but all I could think about is, "No, I'm gonna finish." One sweet lady had some wipes with her. She gave me one to wipe off the blood on my forehead and sunglasses. My knees hurt so bad. It was then just how thankful I was to be wearing long, thicker pants. I still don't know how they kept from tearing. It was clear that my race had just changed. I looked at my watch and it was still on my wrist but definitely scratched up like my pants.

Pic taken when I got home.

Checking my distance so far, I realized I had over half the distance left!! Oh, no! How in the world am I going to finish this without complete walking?? This was NOT in the plan!! It took me a while to shake it off and get my thinking back going straight. After walking for a good bit, I tried running again slowly. My knees were not cooperating. The pain kept me at bay. The last 5+ miles I began getting blisters on the bottom of both feet. What else, right? Further toward the end of the race, I recalled how Kent and I had done sprints when we walked together. I tried that and found I could do it. So I finished the race doing these sprints.

I was exhausted. I'm glad that I could finish. I really wanted a big hug from Kent...guess for support and pure exhaustion. Cosmos provided the post race food and normally it would be delicious; but it was a little spicy [and I LOVE spice] after a long race so I didn't eat much at all. Actually, I really wasn't hungry. I just wanted to go to bed...anywhere!

I picked up my race result ticket. Though my run was so far away from being good, I still wondered just how I came out. When he gave it to me I saw where I was in First Place...FIRST PLACE!!! You've got to be kidding. Guess it's always good to show up...and getting older helps eliminate the field, too. Soooooo, I received goodies for that award. There were essential oil mixture, Stuffits, really nice running socks and a cup. I've never seen a cup like this. It will keep things hot or cold and can be placed in a microwave. It was a flexible plastic of sort. Kinda cool.

One of the main things that kept me going in the race was the perks for crossing this last Finisher's Line. Yep, it was the last of the Run The Beach Series and in order to get my special medal for completing the series I needed to finish this race. Another thing I totally wasn't expecting is that I place 2nd in the Sea Turtle Half and 1st in the Kaiser Half. Woo-hoo! Here are the two medals: one for finishing the Kaiser and one for finishing the series. I'm so proud of this! Also, the jacket.

And, then there's the completed Run the Beach Series plaque. LOVE this!

The day after the race, I took a pic of my face again. Boy, did it blacken!! I am still so sore. It can only get better from here on out. I can't even hold anything in my hands or put pressure on them like getting out of a chair or holding a plate. My palms are still pretty bruised. I guess if I have to have a black eye, I'd rather it be this way than fighting.

I have to say that when I woke up this morning and after all the moaning and groaning, it came to me that God was so good to protect me from worse injuries. I don't know how my glasses didn't break and I'm thankful they didn't. The shatter could have damaged my eyes. I also am glad they didn't break because my eyes are so sensitive to sunlight and I would have struggled just to be out without them with so much of the race left to do. He watched over me during this time and helped me through it all. How can I not be thankful to Him.

It was good to see friends. Some making new PR's, running this half when they just did a full last weekend and helping others to finish one of their first races. It was a beautiful day to experience so many blessings. Until next time...

Run 4 It

Did I Say Biking??

Since my running has not been up to par the last year, I thought I would start biking. The Hugh Banyan Backcountry Trail System has gone through a ton of improvements. Meaning many trails were being added to the already existing ones. I loved the ones they already had but these news ones are just amazing. Getting out my bike again after a few months in the garage, I began riding the trail system with my running friends. Yep...we've all gotten the bug. Two of the four of us had really good road bikes and two of us [including me] had Walmart bikes. For those that don't know, there IS a difference. But we all enjoyed riding and when we rode there wasn't a time nor speed to achieve. After a few rides, we all decided to sign up for the Good Life Ride 20 miler on May 13. As time got closer, the distance changed two more times further. Not very happy about that because riding a simple bike gets pretty hard the longer you get. About a month before the ride I got the flu...the flu!! I don't remember having the flu before. This cut into my practice riding and the others continued to get out. With not as much riding under my belt just before the big day, needless to say the ride itself was pretty hard for me after about 8 miles...and I had so much more to go. Well, all I can say is that I had the BEST friends by my side that day. They never left me and helped pull me through. On top of this, I got SEVERELY sunburned that day!! Lordy, I was glad this was over.

I decided that if I was going to ride with them I needed to "do" something to be able to ride with them. I had tried spin about a year ago and, though I didn't love it, I hung in there and was doing better...until...some of the ladies began talking about me IN FRONT OF ME as if I wasn't even there and...well, let's just say I haven't been back and probably won't go back. Just not my "thang". The next best thing was to improve my ride. Kent knew my frustration of lagging behind all the time and he told me to go get a "good" bike. A couple of things with that: the money [I mean, there's a huge difference between $150 bike and a low end good bike at $900. That's quite a jump. So we went to a bike store and began asking questions; they even let me try one out riding it down the road a piece. Can I say "Wow"!! What a difference this good one made! I had no idea there was such a difference. This convinced me that if I wanted to continue to ride more than 5 miles I'd have to move up to a better ride. All of my friends rode such good ones, most being quite expensive; I knew I couldn't compete with that but I could enjoy riding more with a good one. Before I left Infinity, I had purchased a new bike. My new Trek Lexa would be in in about a week. When I left, I had such a pit in my stomach wondering just what in the world did I do. I had never spent money like this. All week long, I wondered if I had made a big, costly mistake. A few days later, they called and said my bike was in. I could hardly wait to see my new "baby". Let's finish this part by saying that I have never loved biking like I do now. Though I'm still not fast...yet...this bike rides like butter. I love every time I get on her. Since then, I've gotten biking gloves [which are great], a good bike pump, tri-shorts, biking shirt and cage pedals. I already had a helmet. I'm using my Garmin running watch since it tracks biking, too. I know.......everyone has a bike computer...but why buy something when you have something else that works fine. So, I'm keeping this for now. Let's say I'm "looking" the part, ha!

On October 1st, I rode the Southern Magnolia 25 mile bike ride. There were 6 distances you could choose from. About a month ago, they had a practice ride and I elected to do it to see what I was in for. It was on small country roads. Having some trouble with my new bike shorts, I turned around before it was time and finished with 22 miles. Very glad that I did. I was whipped! I know I'm still new at this but biking is tough until you build up your ability. Let's say...I'm still not there! My local friends didn't want to travel that far but friends from my last home area were going and I wanted to see them. They are much more advanced than me...MUCH more. But they love the longer distances. Like runners, there are different kinds. Some love 5k's while others love half marathons and yet others love marathons and further distances. I think "my" distance is going to be 25 with little to no hills, ha!

I was nervous at least two days before the official ride itself. I just feel such a rookie in this area; and I knew that I would probably be alone for most, if not all, of the ride. The thing that kept me going was to remember it was a RIDE, not a race, and that I was going to be with friends I hadn't seen in quite a while. We got there a little early and since I was doing a shorter ride, mine started an hour after the century/ultra bikers left out. We stopped where they would round the corner hoping to see someone I knew. It wasn't long before I heard my name yelled out and it was Marsha [from Orange Beach]. It was so good to see her.

After they all passed by, we headed to the parking lot to start unloading. As we drove up, we saw our good friend, Frank [from Jones County]. Kent took a pic of us and Frank took one of us.

And, off we go...

Frank and I started out together. He had signed up for the 40 miler but started having back trouble and had to step back to a shorter distance. He's such a super biker, he ended up going on. One day I'll be like him!

For someone who basically rides on flat ground, this was tough for me. Once I was alone, I noticed someone else struggling with the hills. It wasn't long before we were talking and sharing that we both are fairly new at this. We are both learning our gears...I hope I can pick up on this because I don't know anyone else that has this issue but me. But I won't quit now. After riding a while, we decided to ride the rest of the way together. At least, we wouldn't be alone. His name was Peter [from Moss Point] and is a recent widower of three months. It's been tough and I'm glad I had an ear for him. This 25 miler ended up at 25.85! All I can say is I love the calories burned...yay!

Kent was waiting for me in the last turn with his handy camera and took some after race photos.

At the Finish Line with my long sleeve finisher's shirt.

My swag included several things. My shirt is on the bottom of this stuff. There was a commemorative towel, Southern Magnolia bike water bottle, Chamois Butt'r, sleeves and a Yowie [never heard of this before]; as well as a couple of Koozies and plastic cup. Thought it was a cool bag for a newbie. 

Here's my bib and the bag that held my goodies. 

A pic of Peter and me.

Got one of Marsha coming in and a few other photos I wanted to share.

My friend, Nancy [from Gulfport]. She came away with a lot of unexpected goodies for recent accomplishments.

Krista, Melody & Deleica [all from Jones County]. This was Krista's first metric century!

Pete [from Mobile]. Surprised to see him.

Also, good to see Ed [from Gulfport]. I rarely see him any more.

And, finally a pic with Marsha.

This event was filled with so many good memories! I loved every minute of getting with friends and visiting. I will never forget this great time. Until next time,

Run 4 It