The New Me

After reviewing the past year and half, I realized that I was totally too hard on myself.  To some point...I don't want that to change as I think it helps push me along in my "lazy" times.  And, yes, we all have them.  But it seemed I was living in the "negative"...LIVING!  Okay, this is not a good thing.  My thoughts constantly berated me telling myself that I wasn't good enough any more and how much I could NOT do things, especially things I use to do just a year ago and that I had "reached the age" of heading downward.  With this wonderful thought process happening 24/7, I rarely pushed myself any more...because...what's the use?  I'm just going to fail or have a pain here or there. 

Last year was a difficult year indeed in many ways, mostly physical.  See my recap for 2014 for an explanation.  Everyone is different and everyone would handle the same situation in their own way considering their abilities, lifestyles, backgrounds, etc.  But the only thing that counts is what YOU do.  Am I right?  Starting with the way you look at things when you are bombarded with the negative. 

Here is a link that I found was good to help do those things you don't really want to do.  Hope you find it helpful to you, too.  http://greatist.com/connect/key-to-happiness-trying-what-you-dont-like .  Yes, I want to overcome the fear of some things and try some new things this year.

So for me to be somewhat accountable [to online friends], here are a few things I want to shoot for in 2015.

1. Try a new fruit monthly.  I'm sure there are 12 fruits that I haven't tried yet that I can find in my grocer.
2. Do some kind of workout on days I don't feel like it.  Yes, this is hard for me.
3. Leave the past where it is...in the past.  I am "me" at this moment and not at any other time.  I can't undo the past nor see the future.  All I have is "now". 
4. Try a new workout a month.  Though there might not be 12, I'm sure I can find variations of an exercise I'm already doing.
5. Do something around the house that I shun doing on a weekly basis.
6. Prepare a new food/meal bi-weekly. 
7. Give someone one of my smiles daily.
8. Encourage others as often as I can.
9. Race the best I can NOW...not as I did in the past or as I want to in the future, but NOW.
10. Find something to be positive about every day.

This will be a start.  No, I don't expect to start looking like a 30 year old, but I do know I can be a better 50+ woman.

I hope this post will help you, too.  What are the things you want to see differently this year?  Got to go, so I can

Run 4 It 

2014 Review

2014 was not good to me in many ways.  As hard as it was, I continued to push through all the things life threw at me.  Here is a synopsis of the year.

January:  Had to go to the doctor Christmas Eve [2013] for sinus infection and bad cough; got a steroid shot and cough medicine.  The following many days I suffered through calf cramps.  After looking up the side affects it was discovered that tendon tears were a side affect.  Stopped running for a while until I finished the meds.  53.3 miles run this month. 

February:  Rained a lot and didn't run outside due to the cough that continued to hang on.  Began running again and was feeling better.  Ran the Double Bridge 15k and Sweetheart 5k.  On the 17th, I received a call that my stepmother, Betty, was very sick and in the hospital.  Left Gulf Shores and headed home to repack and go to Natchez.  On the 19th, CT scan reported MANY spots on her lungs and liver.  Final result of scan revealed BOTH lungs were filled with cancerous tumors.  She could hardly breathe.  Was told she had days to live.  Went home on Friday then to Gulf Shores to get the camper on Saturday and was headed back to Natchez on Sunday.  Received a call that she had passed away early Sunday morning!  Weather was severe and we weren't able to leave as planned.  No running since Tuesday.  Betty wanted my Dad to go live with my sister in Arkansas.  After her passing, much was done at their house and packed Dad to relocate.  Bad first day there.  Headed to Connie's within two days.  32.1 miles run/6.5 miles walked. 

March:  Severe winter warning while in AR.  No running there.  Came home the second week.  Actually was able to get in my first run since February 17th the 2nd week of March.  Things are beginning to settle down some.  Not much running for this month.  45.4 miles run/14 miles walked. 

April:  Went to my first Croppin on the Coast.  Won my next crop for 2015!!  Headed back to Natchez on the 11th to start cleaning out Dad's home.  My stepmother was a huge hoarder.  I loved her dearly but this was a terrible fault that my sister and I had to deal with and being out of town for both of us it was a very hard task.  Dad not doing well and in hospital's step down unit while she was in Natchez at this time.  Met with someone who we decided we'd get to sell the things in the house and the house itself.  My right hip began hurting in the third week which I am thinking is due to all the riding we did.  Having so much to do this month regarding Natchez cut my running back again...as well as my hip pain.  35.5 miles run/10 miles walked. 

May:  Hip pain better and began to run more...finally!  Then I stumped 3 toes on my left foot and started having to walk instead of run a few days.  Yikes!  Went to shoulder doctor as left shoulder is still so limited.  Began PT three times a week.  Started new hormone treatment...no running for a week +/-.  60.7 miles run/17.8 miles walked. 

June:  Summer heat kicks in which makes it very difficult for me to breathe.  Right hip pain returns mid-month.  Sore throat started the 21st and continued to get more painful.  Went to MEA with a diagnosis of sinus infection with lots of coughing...again!!!  NO running all last week.  49.3 miles run. 

July:  All outside workouts or treadmill at home.  No gym this year.  Coughing most of the month.    49.6 miles run/8.5 miles walked. 

August:  Returned to shoulder doctor with continued limited motion.  Got cortisone shot in shoulder and felt better immediately!!  BUT...BAD side affects with tendons...again!  No running for a while.  Began running after first week but legs painful from shot.  Very easy running.  Did a virtual 10k on 15th and virtual 5k on 16th.  Calf pain continued the rest of month!  73.2 miles run/7 miles walked.

September:  Did my first spin class on the 2nd.  Coughed a lot but did pretty good.  Fell on slippery carport the 28th and broke 2nd toe, hurt from left knee all the way up to the hip...I need a break here!!  102.3 miles run.  Did well...considering! 

October:  Mileage begins to increase for St. Jude's Marathon training.  Went to doctor for mass in left breast.  Had surgery the following week.  Two masses found with one LARGE mass but all benign.  Thank God!  NO running or any exercise for a while...again.  Began walking  slow on the 28th.  34.8 miles run/7.7 miles walked.  Marathon will not happen.  Working toward the half now. 

November:  Began walk/run on the 3rd with quarter mile increments.  Put house up for sale and sold within 48 hours!  Much, much work to do including finding another home in Alabama.  73.1 miles run/4 miles walked. 

December: Glad to be at St. Jude's for the half.  Had to walk some but am glad that I was able to finish it.  Had no idea a month ago that I would be able to run any.  Overall pace was 13:28 with an overall time of 2:43:02; 105/231 in my age group.  One of my worst half's but success was counted differently this time.  I deem this race a success.  God is good!!  On the downside, I left my bag with my Garmin, iPod and Oakley's in the window at the hotel, as well as my St. Jude's gear bag!!!!!  Many calls were made to the hotel but they denied seeing it.  I KNOW it was in the window and told them that.  VERY, VERY sick about this!!!!!  Having such good running friends that could "feel" my pain, they donated to the situation which will help me recup some of my loss.  49.3 miles run/4 miles walked.  Moved to Foley, AL, at Christmas.  So much packing after getting back from race.  Been at that home for 31.6 years!  Wow at the stuff we have accumulated!  Spent first night in our home on Sunday the 28th. 

Goals were not made and disappointment was my closest friend [and she was not a good buddy] but I have great running friends that have held my hand and pulled me through the year.  I am so thankful for my husband who continues to encourage me.  So, here you go 2014, I am glad to say "toodaloo"...

Overall [counted walk/runs as runs]:
658.5 miles run [goal was 700]
77.4 miles walked
80.1 miles ridden
3250 yards swam

I am looking forward to a great 2015 year.  Starting over always seem fresh and plans are to keep my goals reasonable and reachable.  I felt defeated all year last year with so many issues that came up one right after the other.  All is good and I plan to keep it that way.  Regardless of past times or races, I plan to get back on the horse again. 

So until then...

Run 4 It

Good Week

I was going to write a post yesterday and I wish I had before today's run.  But, regardless, I wanted to write about last week's training.  First off, I am still working through my calf pain that I've gotten as a result of a cortisone shot I got two weeks ago for my shoulder.  TWO WEEKS!!  My shoulder is doing well but my running has been hard.  It is obvious that I have several side affects [see last post] but one in particular is still hanging on...tendon pain in my calves!  It is much better but I'm still not "normal".  So when I'm running and begin to feel tightness or pain I stop right then and stretch my calves.  And, yes...it has been often and until the calf is stretched enough, there will be pain. 

With that in mind, here is the breakdown of my training last week. 

Mon:  4 miles
Tues:  2 miles on TM followed by good overall workout
Wed:  4 miles followed by different overall workout
Thur:  XT
Fri:  7 miles...7 hilly, beautiful miles. 
Sat:  3.1 miles
Sun:  Rest
Total miles for week:  20.1

On Friday, 6.2 miles of the 7 were counted as the Howl At The Moon Virtual 10k.  I felt it was a good run especially with hills.  Beside that, it was the first time in a long time I had run 7 miles and I ran it all...whoop-whoop!!  Here's my cool medal.  The picture part swings around and says US Road Running.  It is really nice and heavy.  I plan to do more of their virtuals. 

On Saturday, these 3.1 miles was another virtual race I'd done.  It was the Pinky 5k Virtual.  I had one of the best overall paces I've had in a long time.  AND, I had stomach issues and almost didn't do it.  So glad I took a stab at it!  I haven't received my swag bag with my goodies in it, like the medal and shirt, and will post that when it comes in.  Until then, here is our running bibs.  So pretty.

Now for today.  Well, it was pitiful.  The heat and humidity was awful!  I was drenched with sweat within the first mile.  Then, my right calf was painful again and plagued me for a while, even having to walk some.  After stretching several times, it finally let up and I was able to finish the last 1.5 miles of my 5 miles running.  I'm glad I didn't stop at 3 miles because I was not doing well at that point and really just wanted to get back into the car and leave.  I'm going to do everything I can do get through this time and stay on my marathon training schedule.  I even have a Marathon Program B selected I can switch to in case this one is too aggressive [it runs 5 days a week where "B" only runs 4 days] but I will keep at the one I'm on now as long as I can.  I want to do this for those precious children no matter how much it takes out of me...because I CAN do it. 

With that in mind, I hope you stick to whatever program you may be doing and if you're not doing one, stick to your guns when you run.  This heat and humidity will eventually subside and we WILL be stronger.  Now, get out there and

Run 4 It

It Is What It Is

This year continues to be a challenge.  It seems when one thing lets up another takes its place...just like in the previous post.  First off...I WILL not give up!!  I know you've heard me say this a lot in the last year and half, but it is the truth.  Unless I have a legitimate reason to hang it up, I will not stop trying to overcome the obstacles placed before me even if my goals or aims are not done precisely as I had planned.  Thankfully, my mental game is stronger than I ever thought...well, at least most of the time.  Sometimes it really beats me up; but I regain control and give it another shot...thanks to some of the best running friends, too!!   

About a month ago, while I was exercising with weights at a Fitness Center, I did a great workout!  I was so proud of myself and was beginning to feel on top again.  Later my right elbow was in so much pain.  Since I had done heavier weight than I'm use to, I figured that was it...and it possibly was.  It was getting about normal when about two weeks later, my workout included weights...and [guess I'm not that smart], I injured that elbow AGAIN.  What gives??  Can I get over anything before something else happens?  It wasn't much of a move nor was it many repetitions but it was back to doing a little more than I'd been doing.  Okay...now, I've injured my elbow...that is, RE-injured that thing!  It hurts sooooo bad now.  Thankfully, I don't run on it, ha!  Okay, that's not "really" that funny. 

After finishing PT for my shoulder about a month and half ago, my therapist told me that I am as good as I will get unless other things are pursued, like maybe surgery.  Well, this is NOT going to work for me.  My left shoulder is still pretty limited and is NOT acceptable to me...for life, that is!  Hence, another visit to the doctor.  He persuaded me to get an MRI...which I had turned down again and again.  I've not had good success getting those as I am so chlosterphobic!!  But he gave me the meds I needed which really helped.  It also wasn't as confining as those I'd had before due to it being an open air.  Both helped me get through this.  A follow-up visit showed that no surgery was needed.  There wasn't a tear in my rotator cuff, which I never thought there was, and the bones healed closer in place than the previous x-rays showed.  So, the next step was an injection into the shoulder.  After saying "let's do it", he whipped out a needle, the nurse brought in the necessary items for him, and before I knew it I was "shot".   There was NO pain whatsoever and immediately he was able to move my arm in positions I haven't been able to since summer 2013 [over a year ago]!  Well, I can tell you this was wonderful.  I was really encouraged that this was going to be my ticket.  Because it had healed some time ago, it was explained to me that I may need another couple of shots to break down the scar tissue that had formed.  Since this seemed to be a breeze, I was elated and have been more mobile, even a week later, than I had been in so long. 

The down side:  Weeeeellll, nothing was told me about the side affects of the injection juice.  After being told that I could run the following day with no problems, I headed out the door.  It was not long before my calves were on fire.  I couldn't understand that.  I stopped and stretched two or three times.  I had planned 4 miles that day but struggled a lot through 3 of them.  All in all, I got in four but had one mile walking.  I just couldn't figure out what was going on.  THEN...I looked up the side affects of the medication in the syringe and there it was......possible tendon tears.  Oh, no!!!  I am reacting again!  This happened the first of the year when I got a cortisone shot for severe allergy attack and bronchitis.  It took me down for about a week...of NO running!!  Here it is again!  Why do pharmaceutical companies insist on changing products that WORK??  Though my shoulder was much better, I am not able to run. 

Today is a week since the injection and I am gradually getting over this.  Four miles were on my program and decided to give it a try.  I walk/ran 5.5 miles on Saturday and had no intentions of running any but doing .25 mile increments felt good two days ago.  The first couple of miles today were a little tough.  Tightness and pain made it harder than usual.  I slowed down [not that I was going that fast to begin with], and tried an extra half mile running after the two I had just done and did much better.  I think I ran "through" this thing.  It turned out that I did all four miles running and had no pain or issues to deal with afterward.  I think I'm about to whip it...dang juice. 

Training for the St. Jude's marathon has proved to be more of a challenge than I ever expected.  While I was pushing through the tough part of my run this morning, the thought came to me that this race was NOT about me...it was the children.  After refocusing my thoughts on doing this for them, I became stronger mentally.  Even felt ashamed that I was more in cue with my ability than the fact that these children cannot run and play like their little selves would do if it wasn't for the cancer that they are plagued with.  Thank you, Lord, for reminding me of this.  Remember that you can make your donation to St. Jude's here to help defray the cost of these children's treatment and family stay. 

I have planned ahead in the fact that I have two programs I can work with.  They follow one another pretty good except that one has you running five days a week and the other four...and the aggressive one has you running two 20-milers where the less aggressive one has one 20-miler.  I'm hoping to stay with the first one, which is the St. Jude's plan, unless I just have to make a change to Hal Higdon's...which I'm alright with that, too. 

For now, my aim is to work on getting this elbow back to normal and continue to do my PT exercises for my shoulder.  I'm not sure that I will get another injection until after the marathon in December because of the side affects, which I had two or three MORE that I didn't tell you about; but I felt the "no running" is the major one...well, duh!!  I AM a runner!   

Summer has always proven to be tough for me as well.  I'm hoping my persistence in running as much as I can outside will prove to be to my advantage when the cooler temps arrive.  It has in years past and I'm going on that. 

With all of this said, I've had to change some racing hopes again.  But on the flip side of that coin, I've signed up for a couple of virtual races.  Though it won't push me like a race would, I'm hoping to use it for speed training.  It, also, won't be as embarrassing to be in front of others because of my slowed pace either...hee-hee. 

I will say this again...I will NOT give up.  Things may not go quite as expected but I won't quit for those kids!!  It is for "them" that I push onward.  I will run because they can't.  Until the next post, go

Run 4 It 

Updates

Well,  I had to change and update my 2014 Goals.  By the appearance of how this year has gone so far, I won't be able to make some of the goals as planned.  Since it is almost a half year down, I thought I would put them in perspective by adjusting them according to reality. 

Since the first of the year, I've several setbacks in my daily running with bronchitis, family death, allergies, etc., fighting for my attention with running being put on the back burner.  Hence, not a good first half [or almost half] so far.  It will improve but there's no way I could reach my goal of 1,000 miles for the year. 

Second, I wanted to update my 2014 races from the half marathon at St. Jude's to a full!  Yes, I said FULL!!!  I can't believe I'm going to do another one of those monsters.  I'm excited and scared to death all at the same time.  But after touring St. Jude's last year and seeing what an amazing job they do for so many children with cancer, I felt it was the least I could do for "them".  This time I will be doing a different plan than previously.  I heard over and over last year from those that had done this race before just how great it was.  So, my friend, Deleica, and I began thinking about getting a team together this year and going back.  She has done an excellent job coordinating the Team which is called Run 4 The Kids.  We now have 17 members!!!  Yay...

I'm still trying to maintain the fruit-a-day goal and am doing pretty good with that.  I've missed a day here and there but otherwise, I'm doing well.  The clean-eating is still in progress.  Eating out is more than a challenge and all bets are off when we eat those blooming buffets...and we've eaten those a lot so far.  But I'm thinking that will change to occasionally instead of regular.  The hardest thing ever is eliminating sugar from my diet.  I think it's worse...but I'll keep trying.  My name is Robbie and I am a Sugar Addict...yes, I am!!!  Not proud but confessing...

I am beginning to attend Weight Watchers meetings again.  I need the eating accountability part of their program baaaad.  This worked for me last time and I'm hoping I will be shamed enough to get back on track.  I never thought my weight would creep back up on me like it has; and don't think it would have except for the lack of running I've done over the past few months. 

Well, that's about it for now...I will continue to work on strengthening my shoulders with PT/weightts and recuperating, recovering and renewing my soul, body and spirit!  It's been tough and now I'm fighting the mental aspect of it all...but I will get back.  Remember, never give up.  And, to make that a little easier, go

Run 4 It

Sweetheart 5k

What a gorgeous day to race!!  Of course, any day with sun was more than welcoming with all the dreary, rainy, windy weather we've had for months.  The LA Fleet Feet Running Club does a great job doing this race.  This year, a half marathon was added to the 5k and 1 mile races.  And, I really liked the way they incorporated all of them.  They started the half at 7:00, the 1 mile race [I think at 8:30] and finally the 5k at 9:00.  The 1 mile race was over before the 5k began.  By the time the 5k runners were coming in a large part of the half marathoners were finished.  To me, it was a great time saver. 

The morning of the race it was about 44 degrees.  A little cool but the sun was out and was warming up the cool air.  My goal this time was to run as best I could knowing I am still far away from my "norm" and to be in under a 10 minute pace.  I know, I know...that's pitiful "for me".  I'm dealing with this and slowly but surely I know it will get better.  Kent was not up to his par either but again...we did the best we could with what we had.  We ran into a couple of friends of ours from Laurel.  Phillip is a great runner and his wife, Peggy, is a great racewalker.  It was good to visit with them a little. 

I felt pretty good after we got started.  My breathing was like it use to be: a little labored but not breathless.  It felt like a good push.  Keeping my focus and running "my" race helped me to do my best.  This is such a MENTAL sport for me right now.  As I ran under the Finish Line clock, I saw the time of 30:07/08.  I was so excited that I had maintained a good pace for 3.1 miles and I had made my goal of under a 10 minute pace. 

Here's a shot of Kent coming in strong.  Great form!

Got a few shots of the best Alabama friends ever. 

As you can see they were hard at work...enjoying every minute they can.  Great job, guys! 

Got a photo of Phillip and Peggy with their awards.  He got Sr. Grand Masters and she got Grand Masters.  Congrats!! 

Got a quick photo of my friend Tim who always has his camera strapped to his hip.  Congrats, Tim and Michelle!

Then he yelled out and got my pic...woo-hoo!  I hardly get a pic that is not a selfie! 

It was a great day.  Kent placed in his age group.  I came in 7th in my age group.  Not good for me but I'm glad I wasn't last, ha!  I had NO idea how close I was to placing in my age group.  Get this...the lady that was directly ahead of me was in my age group [#6].  On top of that 3 out of the 4 people right ahead of me were in my age group.  That means had I run 17 seconds faster, I'd have placed!!  I couldn't believe that.  All I can say is that I ran as well as I could and it is what it is. 

I am thankful for a beautiful day, good food and great friends.  Thoroughly enjoyed visiting with several after the race.  My friend, Moe, who is fighting cancer looked well.  Met a new friend and are now FB friends.  My sweet hubby got an award.  Yep, it was a great day indeed. 

I'll continue to work hard on my running.  I will NOT give up.  Until next time...I hope you will go out, do your best and

Run 4 It

Double Bridge 15k

What a week it was!  An ice storm came through Wednesday and Thursday.  We were home and it detained us from getting to South Alabama.  Check out the picture the Double Bridge folks in Pensacola took.  There was still sand in the outside lane of the bridges when we ran across them.   As a matter of fact, the bridges had just opened up to be traveled on Thursday afternoon!  What a difference! 

Friday we went to pick up our race packets for the Double Bridge Race on Saturday.  I stayed with friends, Deleica C. and Serina W.   Our race began at 7:00 a.m. and Kent's began at 8:30.  He came back the following day for the race and to pick me up.  The race was a sell out and when we arrived [ahead of the girls] there were already a lot of people milling around.  The Expo was small but nice.  I picked up a new Asics shirt ($11), a Moving Comfort racing bra (half off) and some new Asics Gel shoes (huge discount of $50).  All of this was less than what I would have paid for just the shoes alone had I got them elsewhere!!  Cha-ching!!  I am a happy camper.  Mostly because I was about to purchase new shoes anyway.  These same shoes are normally $120 at the discount store where I always get mine.  And, sports bras are like gold...they are ALWAYS expensive.  The shirt was just a "happy" for me.  I need a shirt to wear that isn't a race shirt. 

Here are our race bibs and the long sleeve shirt we received for the race.  Love the shirt!  Also, love the bibs that have our names printed on them.  I feel so important, ha! 

Here are my goodies I purchased.  They look kinda drab but it's the poor photographer's shot! 

While at the Expo I ran up with my friend, Moe.  I was so excited to see her.  This is the first time I'd seen her since last spring when she told me she had been diagnosed with breast cancer.  She continues to fight it but is still running!!  I don't know how she does it.  She's my hero!!  She signed up to do the 15k, too.  I wish I had gotten a picture with her but the opportunity just wasn't there.  Unfortunately, I never touched base with her after the race.  I thought she looked great...tired, but great.  I'm thankful for the hugs I got when I saw her. 

Not long after getting there, I ran up with my friend, Marsha C. and Tim A.  Tim and I are FB friends but had not actually met until then.  He takes some of the most beautiful pics of Mobile Bay.  Deleica, Serina, Gary and Anna T. showed up at the same time.  It was a busy moment.  Tim took mine and Marsha's pic while the others laughed and cut up.  You don't have to believe me...just look, ha!  Thanks, Tim!!

When we arrived in our 11th floor room, we got the most beautiful views.  The pool is gorgeous.   

 After unpacking, we took a quick pic before going out for our pre-race pasta dinner provided for us. 

I think we enjoyed the company more than the meal.  The temps were dropping.  What???  It was suppose to be in the mid 60's...and here I am needing a jacket.  Thanks, Serina, for loaning me one of yours!!!  I would have frozen with the misty rain falling, too. 

The next morning I got up around 4:00 to get ready for the race.  I brought warm and cool running gear and I am so glad I did or I would have just brought my shorts.  As it turned out, we needed warmer clothing.  Whew!!  We met up with Gary in the lobby and caught the shuttle to the Starting Line.  Kent told me that morning it was 44!!!  All I know is that it was nippy.  Here are a couple of pre-race pics. 

Look at that gorgeous bridge just waiting for us to cross it.  And, off we go.  Before the 2nd mile, I was shoving my arm sleeves to my wrist.  No matter how slow you go, when your body heats up you're ready to cool off. 

This course is tough; but I love it all.  It makes me work hard.  Here is a pic of approaching the second bridge.  I call it "Big Daddy".  It is the toughest part of the race.  Then there's one looking back over it.  Thanks, Tim, for the shots; they captured it great.

I always look forward to this sign!!

I love the crowd support at the end.  It always give you such a boost when the crowd line is long.  When we crossed the line, we got this finishing medal.  I LOVE the flip-flop!! 

I had hopes of running this for a PR but after tough physical situations over several months, I changed my goal to run it entirely.  I know, I know...that doesn't seem like much; but when life throws obstacles at you, you make the best out of them and if you're smart, you'll change the goals to something to reach for...not an inevitable fail or injury.  There were a couple of times that I thought I would have to stop and walk some...even had it in my mind to do so on those bridges if I needed to so as not to get injured.  The only running I had done that week was 7 miles on Monday.  That's not much.  And, that was the longest I had maintained that distance in quite some time...without walking some.  As it turned out, I was able to run it all.  Slower on the bridges but I'm okay with that.  I achieved what I set out to do.  This gave me such a confidence boost.  Not only to run it all but to run those tough hilly bridges.  This is one of my favorite races and I hope to do it many more times. 

After such a wild week of weather, only one day of running, lots of traveling and a 15k, I was tired.  Fortunately, I never got sore afterward; but we went to bed very early on Saturday. 

On Sunday, my stepson, Kyle, ran his first half marathon in New Orleans at the Rock 'n Roll.  The weather changed a lot on Saturday.  The fog rolled in with the wind and the temps dropped.  Come Sunday, it was forecast to even rain.  Definitely not what a runner wants to hear.  Regardless, it was terribly humid!  As it turned out, he did great and the rain held off until the marathon was over.  We are so proud of him!!  I asked if he would do another and he said, "Yes!!"  It was then that I told him that he was hooked, ha! 

This weekend was a great weekend with friends, family and races.  It was good to see so many running friends and cheer others on in another state.  I hope you were able to get in a run or race.  If not, I urge you to put on your shoes and clothes and get out right now and

Run 4 It

Out with 2013 and in with 2014

It's been quite a year.  Seems there were more obstacles than there were making forward strides.  A few things come to mind.  But I learned a lot about myself this year. 

January:  My marathon training "seemed" to be going well.  It was during training this time that I continued to race, using those times as part of my speedwork and/or long distance runs.  The Lulu's Half Marathon proved to me that I could keep focused on distance training.  I was able to beat my competitive friend by ONE second...and...get First Place for the first time in my running career in a half marathon.  The down side that day was that I had 5 more miles to train for to equal 18.  After resting too long, the "18" miles didn't turn out to be a good run overall. 

February:  The Double Bridge 15k turned out to be one of the best races I've done in a long time.  I cut TWO minutes off my PR from the year before!!  It was beautiful that day and I felt great.  Next came my 20-miler training run for the upcoming full.  It was the worst run I think I've ever done!!  I now understand what it means to "hit the wall".  I've never felt so spent!  When I looked up, I saw Kent who had come to check on me and I fell into his arms crying...and couldn't even tell him why...just many tears.  BUT...I refused to quit until I had finished the 20 miles.  Marathon day came and I felt pretty good.  I was exactly where I wanted to be in my time up until the 16-17th miles, I began experiencing pain from a blister on TOP of my foot.  It crippled me the rest of the way.  Not only was the course changed due to flooding to include at least three tough hills over AND back, I literally was spent.  I am very thankful for a friend who showed up to help me run in the last few.  Nestor A. was such a blessing!

March:  My shoulders progressively got worse eventually not being able to raise them over my head.  I pushed through the Warrior Dash and decided to get it checked.  The right one had Calcific Rotator Cuff Tendonitis in it and it was extremely painful!!  Running stopped for a while to prevent further injury to it.  After much PT, I was better. 

July:  I obtained another State Record for the 2-mile race and am pleased with that.  Not a good time...but in the books.  After being released from the doctor for the tendonitis, the following week as I was running, I fell at the Sportsplex and broke my left shoulder!  What else!!  Tore the shoulder cap off with possibly torn muscles.  I refused an MRI so there was no verification as to what all was actually going on.  Rejected surgery, just more PT!!!  This time, it was much...more...painful!! 

September:  All running had stopped for a while now.  Began walking incorporating some intervals of running as I got better.  I continued to train for the upcoming half.  Not being released from the doctor, I insisted on doing the Talladega Half...anyway I could do it.  It was for Kent...NOT me, this time!  My time was better than I thought it would be on training and am pleased with that. 

November:  Obtained another State Record, this time for a 5k.  My time was terrible at best but I'll take it! 

December:  Ready to run as much of the St. Jude's Half as I could...only to find out the night before the race that it had to be cancelled due to the terrible ice storm that had come in!!  The first time ever cancelled!!!   Christmas Eve I've had the "pleasure" of contracting a stomach bug AND bronchitis!!  Of course, the later is keeping me from running...again!!! 

Now, on to the goals I set for this year that didn't quite make it. 

Eat fruit daily...I did really well with this though I did not do it every day.  Maybe every day was a little aggressive.  I hope next year I will be better but I'm satisfied with the improvement I made.  I'm going to keep this one again in 2014. 

1,000 running miles...well, that didn't happen and rightly so with all the injuries I incurred.  BUT, I think I did well considering the downtime I've had.  Will pursue this goal again next year. 

Maintain weight in the 130s...that did NOT happen at all!!  I should have done better but didn't.  I will keep at it and hope I will do a better job next year as I plan to be more active in Weight Watchers again.  This was the best thing I did in '08-'10.  Running the marathon knocked me back into the 140's and I have pretty much stayed there with a few times getting back into the 130's. 

1 Marathon...DONE.  Yay!!  Super Yay!!  I did my second marathon and am pleased with this goal immensely.  My training was totally by myself and hard; and my race was by myself except when my friend joined me at the end.  Got a PR!!  It's all good.

3 Half Marathons...DONE.  But better than that, I exceeded that by doing 4 this year!!!  I never would have thought I'd have done this many.  It should have been five but St. Jude's was cancelled due to ice storm.  I was there and ready to run. 

With all the super races I've done this year, I can honestly say that I have probably run my body down.  I love half marathons and before I knew it I had signed up for this one, then that one, then another one.  Therefore, I pretty much stayed in a training mode throughout the year considering 5 half's and a full marathon.  I found that I have a lot of persistence/discipline/stamina/strong will or "whatever" in me as I NEVER gave up.  It was quite frustrating at times and I did get down a lot but eventually pulled through usually with Kent's help.  I had to alter my running a lot this year to get it all done but the races may have been what kept me going. 

Note:  With all the negatives this year, I ended up with TWO State Records and TWO PR's!!  Not a bad year after all. 

The year 2014 will be approached differently.  I am planning on returning to a stronger, healthier person thereby making me a stronger runner as I was before.  Also, to incorporate more cross training by stepping out of my comfort zone and trying different things such as spin, weights, biking, swimming and yoga. 

One of the things I want to learn more about and begin incorporating is "clean eating".  I want to take better care of my liver and that can only be done by the things I feed my body.  I hope I will be able to drop my sugar usage way down this year.  I don't want to consume it differently, I want to do what I can to eliminate it!!!  I am such a SUGARHOLIC and I really don't need to "tease" my body with what bad stuff I put into it.  This new outlook on eating will take some time to do but I hope I can get a good start on it this year making for a better, healthier me. 

Recover, recuperate and renew.  Yes, 2014 will be the year for renewal.  Examination of my overall health, fitness and age is in order.  I am looking forward to a stronger, healthier year.  I hope you will take an hour or so and evaluate what you would like to see in yourself this new year and give yourself a big pat on the back for the good job you did in '13.  It may not have gone like you thought it should but if you hung in there, you did a great job!  We have so much to be thankful.  Until I see you next time,

Run 4 It

Stennis 5k & New State Record

We thought we'd stop by and do this race since we were heading home for the St. Jude's Half Marathon next weekend.  It had been quite a while since we'd run this one and it just fit right into our travel plans.  This is the second 5k race I've run totally since my injury this summer.  I'm gradually getting my running/racing legs back.  Though I've run long runs in the last month or so, I've not been able to sustain it.  For the next week, I could hardly run 3 miles without stopping.  So, my goal for this race was to run it entirely...no thought of time or pace.  I've GOT to get my confidence back.  Having a fear of falling again is quite strong. 

We met up with several friends before the race.  It got more and more exciting.  We were quite chilly and a lot of people were staying in their vehicles to keep warm.  We found our friend Tommy P. and his son and DIL.  Though we are Facebook friends, it was our first time to meet Tommy's family.  It is exciting to see families run together.  I think it makes a different kind of bind between them.  Here are a couple of pre-race pics.  And, Kent was in the car keeping warm! No pre-race pic of him obviously.  Melissa, Tommy, Jr. and me.

 Tommy and me.

As usual, I was a little nervous starting but for different reasons this time.  I really wanted to run this race entirely.  No other goals at this time.  The race got off to a good start.  I ran as good as I could.  Then all of a sudden I see Tommy pass me!  Yay, for him but I thought I was running faster than him.  Well...guess not, ha!  He is a stronger runner than me...for now, ha!  He and his son ran together the entire race.  I think TJ was his "rabbit"!!  It worked...cause Tommy kept up with him.  The only part I did NOT like "seeing" was that TJ would turn around sometimes and run backwards...backwards!!  Boy, did THAT make me feel slow!!  Thanks, TJ...lol.  Sometimes he would even run a little ahead, turn around and jog back to run alongside his Dad again.  I am watching this escapade and wondering just how slow am I???  I kept saying to myself...this is MY race, this is MY race...and it kept me focused.  Thank you, Tommy and TJ, for continually pushing me.  I needed that!!  You are part of my success in that race.  Oh, btw...is TJ for hire??  He ran back to run with Melissa through the Finish Line.  How sweet and supportive is that!  AND...he let her cross the line one second ahead of him.  Awwww...such a gentleman!  This is a great family. 

Kent did very well in his race.  The course was an out-and-back and I could see everyone ahead of him.  There was NO ONE in front of him racewalking or even walking!!  NO ONE!!!  Here he is coming in very strong.  I knew he was First Place! 

I'm so proud of him.  He does it right!!  Check out that form...it's perfect! 

We enjoyed pasta after the race and good company.  Then the awards began.  We found out that Melissa placed in her age group [I think I understand that it was her first award]...yay!!  TJ also placed and Tommy placed 2nd.  Then I was shocked when I heard my name called!!!  I had NO idea I would place since my time was so slow.  BUT...I got 1st place in my age group.  I was ecstatic!  Then they started on the RWs.  Oddly enough, they called someone else's name out for first place...which he was SEEN running with his daughter, who also won in the women's RW division!!  Kent was named 2nd.  But as the final figures came out, they showed someone else in front of him actually making Kent third!  Funny thing here???  He "supposedly" came in just seconds ahead of Kent.  That was NOT TRUE.  I was right there with my camera and there was no one crossing the line that was not running!!  The audacity of some people...we practically hate this division!!!  It is FULL of cheaters!!!  The strange thing is that nearly every time a cheater "wins", they do not show up to receive their award...funny, isn't it?  Sorry about the ranting...but it is such an unfair race and there's nothing you can do about it.  For now...I will consider Kent 1st Place...because he WAS.  I ran the race and I KNOW he was the FIRST male racewalker.  Everyone I saw was running.  I wish there could be judges along the course because in all fairness to the race officials they only have the individual's word for it and that makes for a tough call.  I'd hate to be in their shoes...just unfair all the way around.  It's just a shame people have no problem lying now.  Okay...I'm stepping off my soap box now.  GCRC do a great job...this is NOT against them! 

As it turned out, all five of us placed in our age groups.  Only got one pic where we all were smiling but I am proud of all of us, especially Melissa.  Also, to several other friends that placed:  Phillip W. [5k], Leonard V., Ginny D., Bob C. and Gary T. [half marathon].  Oh, yes...and a VERY BIG "Congrats" to little Dallas S.  He is an amazing little 7 year old from our neck of the woods who ran and placed in the half marathon...AND is a world record holder!!!  I'm so very proud of him!!  We've been watching this little guy since he was 3 years old racing!!!  He's great.  Congrats to all of you! 

 Here is the medal I'm so proud of!!  It is patterned after the shirt.  So colorful. 

All in all, I am very pleased with my race.  I ran it all, placed in my age group AND...the best part...got a State Record!!  I just wish my time had been more like it normally would have been...four minutes faster.  But...I'll take it, ha!  This race added to my confidence level for running/racing again.

Thank you, Leonard V., for a great job done!  You have good folks that assist you and they are to be commended as well. 

Now, off I go to pack for the St. Jude's Half Marathon next Saturday.  We're leaving Friday to have fun in this nice, icy, very cold race!  The highs are showing 30 degrees...brrrrr!  I'm so glad to be a part of this particular race though...we are SO blessed.  Until the SJ post, go out and

Run 4 It

Turkey Trot 5k

We participated in the Turkey Trot 5k in Pensacola on Saturday for the third year.  We always enjoy this race.  It is flat and we love running along the water.  But this year they changed the course and there was no running by the beach with a view of the first beautiful bridge crossing to Pensacola Beach!  It's a gorgeous scene.  A little disappointed in that, but we still like the race.  Due to the course change, we ran through more of the neighborhood where there are many turns...not so thrilled about that.  It makes it harder to gain speed with having to slow down for the next turn.  The good thing this year is that the weather was much nicer.  One year it was so cold and one year it was cold AND raining pretty hard.  This time the temp and weather were on our side. 

There were over 600 participants in the race this year!  The one thing we really like about this one is that all the proceeds go to providing a nice Thanksgiving meal to those that will otherwise get a meal from a soup kitchen.  A meal that will give them dignity and unity with their families in their own home.  They raised enough to provide 130 meals this year!!  And most of the top winners donated their turkeys making it more than that. 

There were different goals for this race...as was the last couple of races.  Participating in races again since my fall is giving me the confidence I need to be stronger.  As a matter of fact, right now I'm fighting discouraging thinking...stinking thinking, I'm going to call it.  All in all, I'm gradually getting my racing ability back...I said, gradually.  Negative thoughts tried to disillusion me to walk some in the race but I focused on my music and sang louder (to myself) than those thoughts.  It worked!!  When I felt like I needed to walk, I slowed down some and kept going.  That was my first goal...to run it entirely with a little pushing.  Not running fast in a long time, my body wanted to fight the "push". 

As I got close to the Finish Line/Clock I still had more push in me.  I knew what I time "wanted" to come in but had little hopes of actually reaching it.  When I saw that I was close to reaching it, I ran harder to reach the FL.  Looking again, I knew I was going to have to kick it up a little bit more.  Stretched out a little more...all the while passing several folks.  Last look and I didn't think I was going to make it.  My last deep reach, I ran as hard as I could trying to beat that clock...looking up as I got under it...I saw I made it!!!  By one second!!  I am soooo excited to have run it all, feeling good and even accomplishing my time goal under 30 minutes.  I finished with a 9:38 pace for the race!!!  I am so excited about that because I've not run that fast for that long in so long.  I was hoping for a 10 minute pace...yay!!  This is the first 5k I've raced running solid in months!!  It was a great day. 

There were 55 racewalkers, who had a one minute delay after the runners started.  Here's a picture of Kent coming in strong.  He felt good and reached his time goal, too.

He was 3rd overall male racewalker and received 1st Place in his age group.  He got a beautiful autumn colored, leaf shaped dish.  It is so pretty. 

A good friend from Ontario, Canada, is in the area for the winter.  It was good to see her, too.  Got a quick pic of her coming in.  Great job, Irene D!! 

Then there's a couple that we have fallen in love with over the last couple of years...the Ambrosi's.  They are huge role models for us!!  They will never know how much we look up to them.  They are in their 80's and we hope to be moving like they are when we arrive at this wonderful age...you'd NEVER guess they were over 80!  They are amazing!  Oh, yeah, he nearly always lets her cross the line a step in front of him though he happens to be just in front of her here.  Such a gentleman!  We watch them and they are so loving to each other.  He was hugging her while waiting for the awards for their age group...so sweet!  He, also, served this country as a Marine...many things to love about these people.  Anyway, when they came through, I had to get a pic.  They run a race every weekend in the Pensacola/Gulf Shores areas.  Love you two!!

Something I learned in this race.  I CAN overcome negative thinking if I refocus my thoughts.  I now have two sayings I repeat throughout a race:  "This is MY race and no one else's" and "Finish Strong".  So, I leave you with congratulating you on your race or run this weekend and hope for you new PR's before the end of the year.  Now, go

Run 4 It 

My First Virtual Half Marathon & Other Things

I went to my physical therapist yesterday for a check-up.  Being out of town, PT has had to come to a halt with him.  In one sense, my shoulder is much better.  I can raise my arm straight out in front of me over my head almost to a normal range.  It won't be long now.  But the outward raise of my arm's range of motion is poor.  He suggested I go back to the doctor for a shot to release the scar tissue he feels has built up and that he thought he would do manipulation of the shoulder; then for more physical therapy.  Said that my limitation is very indicative of a torn tendon!!  I was sad about that because this is impossible for me right now.  I am going to try harder to move that shoulder out and maybe between Kent and I it will release some and give me a better range of motion.  I have decided that if this doesn't work that I will go back to the doctor when I can.  Maybe I should have had the surgery...sad about this news!!  Please pray with me to keep working on this. 

My friend, Diane F., posted a challenge to run a 5k, 10k or half marathon for Put Kids First Virtual Race for St. Jude's.  Though I am going to participate in the half marathon at St. Jude's in Memphis in December, I just couldn't resist signing up for this.  This is my first virtual race.  They are done on your own time wherever you are whenever you can do it.  Since my training long runs are up there now, I decided to go ahead and shoot for the half today. 

This morning was beautiful!!  A perfect day to run.  The temp was 46 degrees and sunny.  With the exception of the WIND, you couldn't ask for anything better to be in place for a long run.  My run was a slow one because I wanted to try to run as much of it as I could.  I finished 10 miles running and my feet were getting tired.  So, I stopped my watch at 10 miles and reset it so I could tell how I did on the run without stopping.  The last 3.1 miles were ran/walked and recorded separately.  I ran more than I thought I could...again, I'm pleased with that regardless of the pace.  Throughout the entire run, my mind was continually on those sick children.  We are so blessed!  Never take a day for granted. 

Also, my friend, Barbara H., didn't get as good a report from her chemotherapy treatments yesterday as she had hoped.  My heart cries for her.  She is one of the nicest people you will ever meet and is so giving.  I wish I could take this away from her but undoubtedly God has more plans for her.  People she hasn't met yet so God can touch their lives through her.  Her future is bright though it may not seem like it now.  Barbara, I prayed for you throughout the morning today in my run...I love you, my friend!!  You are NOT alone in this trial! 

Another thing that was on my mind today was the woman that died right after the ING NY Marathon last weekend.  A quote from the following link: "The 86-year-old athlete, who had said she wanted to die running, was found on her hotel bed Monday afternoon."  Another quote: "Johnson, of San Jose, Calif., completed her 25th run in the marathon on Sunday. She stumbled and hit her head near the 20th mile, but still managed to complete the race and carry out her annual interview with the 'Today' show's Al Roker the next day."  And, finally, "Joy Johnson, the oldest woman to compete in the ING New York City Marathon on Sunday, died in her sleep the next day, her sneakers still laced on her feet."  God undoubtedly let her leave this world doing what she wanted to do.  Below is a link to the full article.  It is inspirational!  This is the third thing that I thought about a lot while running this morning.  I named my run today "Run with Joy".  For one, joy in God and second to run for her.  I think I will remember her for a long time.  RIP, Joy Johnson.  You are/were an inspiration to many, including myself.

Read more: http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/oldest-woman-new-york-city-marathon-dies-86-article-1.1507052#ixzz2k5RsFbgh

Until next time, I hope you will put your shoes on and go

Run 4 It

Shrimp Festival 5k

It seems that it's been two years since I've run the Shrimp Festival race.  The last time I remember doing this one was when it was held on the beach road...which I vowed not to do it again because of the lack of barriers from the traffic.  Cars were moving in and out of the runners and was so dangerous....I couldn't believe traffic was mixing in with the runners!!  The course was moved to a much safer area on the BackCountry Trail System, which I love all those trails.  Some are flat and some have grades that are challenging though short lasting.  All in all, I was pleased that the course was changed. 

We signed up for the 5k.  I've only done the 10k in the past but knew I was not ready for that yet.  Yes, I know I just did a half marathon, but really didn't feel that I could tackle a 10k yet.  Seems like the shorter races challenge me more than the longer ones and push me harder.  Guess I just want to run it all or run faster than I am ready to do.  Here's a pic of the cool banner at the Lines. 

After running 3 miles straight for the first time since the accident, I felt I was ready to run a 5k again.  We started out and I felt great.  Looking down at my watch off and on I KNEW I was going way too fast.  Even at 2 miles, I was still running better than I have for months, under a 10 minute mile.  As we made our turn onto a newer trail [the last mile heading back to the finish], the sun came out from behind the clouds and beat down on us.  Challenge #1:  it got really tough.  There was no shade until the very end.  My pace slowed down a lot.  I mean...a lot!  Even to incorporating some walking.  Here I am in the last stretch and I'm fading fast.  Keeping my head on straight, I focused on the fact that I had started out too fast and that I had run longer in a race than I had in a long time.  I'm okay...now, to just finish strong, another main goal for any race.  As we got to some shade and back on to a familiar stretch of the trail I tried to get back to running harder.  Challenge #2:  constant grade!!  Yikes.  I pushed and pushed and did the best I could but still had to do a little bit of walking.  As we made our last turn up to the Finish Line, I pushed as hard as I could but the grade got tougher.  Yes, I did pretty good and was able to run through the finish.  I felt great though a little tired.  I finished much better than I thought I would. 

Now, get this............I finished TWO seconds from placing TWICE!!  Twice you might say??  Two ladies a step in front of me tied for second and third place!  Man, I wasn't looking to place but I hate I was so close.  Regardless, I'm pleased with my time.  I finished 31:22 with a 10:06 pace; my fastest so far.  They finished 31:20!!  Here the results for my age group. Oh, I entered with my middle name, Ann, since my first name tends to put me into the male category regardless of how strong I mark "female".  Fourth place is not bad...I'll take it. 

FEMALE AGE GROUP: 55 - 59
Place Name                Age City/state             5kgun    5kpace     
===== ======================= === ==========
1 Kathy Terrell            56 Wetumpka AL      29:45      9:35 
2 Jean Keith                 58 Foley AL              31:20    10:06 
3 Susan Fechner          59 Foley AL               31:20    10:06 
4 Ann Headrick           57 Laurel MS             31:22    10:06 
5 Donna Higgins         59 Griffin GA             31:52    10:16 
6 Janet Kassabian        57 Arlington TX         35:31   11:26
7 Judy York                 55 Dacula GU            36:03    11:36 
8 Celeste Cancienne    58 Napoleonville LA 39:38    12:46  
9 Kim Headrick           57 Maryville TN        42:22    13:38  
10 Susan Doucet         57 Lafayette LA          50:23   16:13 
11 Kay Jett                  56 Gulf Shores AL     55:13    17:47 
12 Gina Patrick          56 Sugarhill GA       1:08:05    21:55  

Kent did really good, too. He finished 1st Place in his age group.  So proud of him!

After the race, I met up with my friend Diane G. and she took a pic of some of her friends.  It is always good to meet new running friends...yay!



There were lots of people and lots of good food.  Water was plentiful as were the hot cheese and pepperoni pizzas!  They also had mini blueberry, orange and poppy seed muffins.   The meal consisted of a pasta dish and fruit cocktail.  It was all so refreshing.  Here's a crowd shot but there were many still out on the course at this time. 

I look forward to next year when I can run the 10k.  Now that the course is away from traffic, I can see putting this race on the schedule every year. 

Never give up!  You may have difficult times...we all do.  But keep thinking positively and do what you can and

Run 4 It

Talladega Half Marathon

This race was completely different from any I've done before.  My goals were not about me.  It was one of the best races I've done. 

The goals for this race were:
First and foremost to do the race for my husband and in awareness of prostate cancer.
To actually do it since my broken shoulder hindered me from hardly doing any running with late training.
To run as much as I could in keeping up with the run/walk program I had trained for.
Time is NOT an issue in this race.
And, to be satisfied with my results...period...as long as I finished uninjured and not in pain!

My friend, Deleica, and I went together.  She had not had a good night's sleep the night before our 4 hour travel and I made it my job to keep her awake on our long drive there.  Of course, she would say I talked too much...BUT...I didn't want to take a chance in veering off the road; I was really tired of talking but we made it fine.  I had not had much rest either but I had a job to do, too. 

We picked up our race packets before checking into the motel.  The shirts are really cool looking AND V-neck...my favorite style.  I love the bright lime green color with the black and white checkered flags on it.  My number was 333 and thought this had to be a good sign.  They also had these great buttons and I got one to wear in the race.  Just perfect!  There was a cool looking decal that I set on the upper left side of the shirt in order to get a pic of it.  There were also lots of goodies in the bag. 

 

From the very beginning [last December], I made up my mind to do this race for Kent's sake.  Little did I know "I" would have my own issues to deal with. 

I was now getting excited for about the race.  I can't believe that I am actually going to be able to do this half marathon!!  I asked my doctor a month and half ago about doing it [I had to sign up for it quite a while back] and he said, without blinking an eye or stuttering...a resounding "NO!"  Weeeelll...after improvement with physical therapy, I thought I would ask my PT if it would be okay to run/walk it.  He cautioned me by trying to run a little and see if I hurt any and that if I did to stop.  Well little does he realize just what a runner is made of!!!  I started out and did fine.  Before I knew it, my intervals included .25 mile walk with .25 mile slow run.  A couple of weeks before the race, I had increased my running interval to .50+ mile and my distance to 11 miles with no problems. 

As we came up to the track we took a few pics.  Excitement was building more and more.  Here is the entrance...woo-hoo!

For those that haven't been here, this is the tunnel vehicles take to get to the center of the race track.  It is a steep drop and as steep an incline going back up the other side...it actually goes underneath the track itself. 

And, there it was...this huge track with amazing stands surrounding you.  You felt like "somebody" on the "inside", ha! 

After a night's rest, we got dressed for the race.  I was so touched by my friend's headband.  She wrote "This 13.1 for Kent".  I was choked up and couldn't speak.  Thanks, D, you're special to both of us!  It was pretty cool that morning so I wore my arm sleeves.  Sure wish there were fuel belts that didn't make you look so big...it wouldn't be all the stuff you put in there now would it???  Well, I look a little lumpy but I had a lot of stuff with me in the race.  Here are my contents:  3 GU's, phone, an iPod, container of ACV, lipstick [a girl HAS to have some lipstick, right??], a little TP...and seems like it was something else...but that is enough as it is!!  And, yes, with all the extra weight, I was ready!! 

Before the race they had a breakfast for cancer survivors as well as a devotion.  They also had a special parking area for the survivors, too.  The devotion was really good done by a local pastor.  It was held at one of the car bays on Pit Row.  So exciting!! 

Here are a couple of pre-race photos.  We could hardly stand up on the second lane from the bottom.  The people you see had to crawl to get up to the upper position!! 

My adrenaline really starts pumping just before a race.  And this one was a very special one.  Normally, I start out with a .25 mile walk, then run; but I couldn't contain myself and started out running.  It was so much fun running around the very track that NASCAR cars race around.  Music screamed from the loud speakers and you could hear it from most everywhere except when you were running out on the road.  The photos below are taken when I went around the track the first time...at the beginning. 

Yes, there's always a nut doing something no one else does.  Check out this man "trying" to run on the 3rd lane!!  He was actually walking it very slowly.  Even on the lowest lane, there was still a little turn in it making your hips move differently.  Thankfully, I wasn't in my "race form" this time.  The ones taken below are on the course.  There's one of me coming up from the tunnel...that was THE hardest part of the race though there were several tough hills in this one! 

Then we came back around the race track for a final lap.  My legs were S.C.R.E.A.M.I.N.G. by then. The hills were tough!!  The last couple of miles my little legs paid for it...I started cramping in my calves!!  I've never cramped like this before.  First one, then the other, back and forth throughout the finish.  Soooo....as a good athlete that is always prepared....I whipped out my trusty ACV that has always worked!  Took a swig...nothing!!!  Swig #2...nothing!!!  These things would NOT go away.  After the Swig #3, I decided it was nto going to quit and I couldn't take the vinegar any more, especially with water to chase it...yuk!  So, I had to start walking more.  I felt good otherwise and was really wanting to run the last part of the race and now this was going to be my culprit.  Even the very last half mile, I couldn't keep a trot.  I pushed through as hard as it was and was thankful it was over.  But...there's always NEXT YEAR, right??   

Then there's the Finish Line photo.  As I've said before...if at ALL possible...I will NOT walk through a Finish Line.  I was able to run in from a short distance out. 

There were so many photographers, mostly around the track.  They were able to get us going around the first time and around it again at the finish.  It wasn't long after the race began that the temps rose...notice most all the photos taken my arm sleeves were shoved down.  When we crossed the line we got our medals, which I was elated to get!!!...and a sponge in the shape of a NASCAR car soaked in water.  The cool water was so welcoming. 

And, here are our medals.  Aren't they cool??  I love that it says "Dega Baby"!

We had oranges and bananas and a sandwich plate from Jim 'n Nick's BBQ.  It was sooo good.  Red Diamond was one of the sponsors so we had cold, sweet tea, too.  Then we walked on around to where the NASCAR finish pictures are taken and we got our pics taken in the same place.  It made you feel so important, ha! 

Here are the results for the race:  http://www.besttimescct.com/results/Talladega13.txt .  I finished 10th out of 19 in my age group.  Success...again!! 

I didn't know that there were so many aspects of racing or running.  I found out that you can race with different motives and goals.  I've always raced doing the best I can do...and that's not bad; just sometimes there are other reasons to pursue a good race.  I worked hard to get to the point to actually be able to do a half marathon.  I really didn't want to drop down to the 5k, if possible.  Pushing through the training runs without causing more injury to my shoulder showed me that I can actually control and discipline myself to stay with a program that is better than just getting in fast miles.  Next, I stuck with a commitment I had made months ago.  And first and foremost, when you want to do something in honor or memory of someone else, you will find that you have something deep within you that you never knew you had to get you through what's important to you.  I'm so thankful that I could HONOR my husband, Kent, and also, actually had a part in promoting awareness for prostate cancer.  The Talladega Half Marathon and 5k was sponsored by the Urology Centers of Alabama, the very clinic that Kent went for treatment and surgery.  They are amazing and excellent in their knowledge and care.  Men, please take advantage of preventive testing...it saved his life and can save yours! 

This race was probably the hardest race I've done with all the hills; but I can hardly wait until next year to do it again.  It was not one of those discouraging ones but one that challenged me.  I'm looking forward to actually racing the next one...of course, after lots of hill work and calf work preparing for it.  Oh, by the way...MANY were having problems by the end of the race due to the hills we had encountered the last 5-6 miles.  Even D said that she had to walk more than she expected at the end and she contracted cramps at about the same place I began to have mine. 

I am trying to run a little farther in my runs since the race.  It is slow but I'm going to get there.  When you want to do something really bad, you will find that you will get out and

Run 4 It