For some reason on this morning's run, the bugs were out in full force. Before I reached mile one I'd already taken one in the eye, and they were sticking to my neck and arms, tickling my elbows as they slid down in my sweat. I brushed them off as often as I could and upon returning home dug two out of my eyes and washed the rest down the drain. Gross, huh.
Well, this morning's buggie run made me think of a recent post I read on Run the Edge. Tim and Adam are the writers and they have two recent posts where they have asked each other "would you rather" questions about different (crazy) running scenarios. These guys and their questions are hilarious, which is one of the reasons I enjoy reading their blog. I've been trying to come up with some questions of my own to post here, but I have discovered I am not nearly as creative as Tim and Adam. So, I'm going to borrow and modify. I'm also going to answer and I think you should too.
1. Would you rather run for two hours around a putrid smelling landfill or run for two hours in a mosquito infested swamp wearing nothing but a sports bra, split shorts, and shoes?
This question was asked of Tim (minus the sports bra) and he replied that he'd choose the mosquitos. I disagreed, and my reasons were for exactly what took place this morning. I figure you can get used to the smell, so that it is not so strong (although I may be wrong about this - skunk smell sure does last), but mosquitos will go in your eyes and nose and mouth, stick to you, etc.
2. On a hot summer day would you rather run a marathon barefoot or in snow shoes?
I'm gonna say barefoot, even though it will not be pretty. I'm also going to confess that I do not really know what snow shoes are, but they sound big, bulky and hot! I don't think I want to run a marathon on a hot summer day period, but given these choices I'd revert back to my childhood days of constant shoelessness, and try it barefoot.
3. Would you rather run 3 miles naked at 5am or 5 miles in a string bikini at 5pm? Location: your daily running route (neighborhood).
This question is modified from the original question, but my answer remains the same for both. Its the birthday suit for me. You've got fewer miles and shorter time, plus if you've seen my running route at 5am versus 5pm, you know there is a good chance no one will spot me in the morning, whereas the entire town will view the string bikini at closing time.
4. Would you rather finish last in a race, but run your best time or win a race with a very slow time?
This one is tough. It is fun to win a race, but it is also very satisfying to PR. My reasons may be different from what Tim and Adam had to say (being that I am rarely if ever in the spotlight while running). I'm going to choose the personal record. I rarely remember if I place in a race, but I know my best times in all events I do, and I am constantly chasing those. I think I'm more fulfilled by beating myself than beating anyone else.
5. Would you rather get caught by race spectators squatting behind a bush to pee mid-marathon or finish on camera with it running down your leg?
The first part actually happened to my mom during a marathon. She squatted behind a bush thinking no one could see her, but she was in full view of a balcony full of spectators. They cheered for her and she waved. She has no shame. I think I'd go with that one, although whose to say a camera would really notice it running down your leg, unless the announcer called it out. "Now finishing is Jane Reneau from Alabama and, oh my, it looks like she couldn't wait!"
So what do you think? Are your answers the same? Let me know in the comments and check out the full set of questions asked by both Tim and Adam on Run the Edge.
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Running to Bootcamp
Once my sister and I started our bootcamp class and I knew what to expect from it, I decided I wanted to try running to class and then running home afterward. The gym is not very far from my house and there is sidewalk the entire way. Getting out of bed in time, however, has proven to be challenging. The class is scheduled to start at 5:30 am, but Colin, our instructor, usually starts with the warm-up a few minutes early. That meant I needed to be dressed and walking out the door by 5:00 am at the latest.
This morning, for some reason, the alarm was really loud and it startled me. I was wide awake after that and decided today was the day to try running to bootcamp. My clothes were already laid out, along with my watch and ipod just in case I did manage to get out of bed in time. I filled up a water bottle to take with me and set out.
The morning seemed darker than usual and felt as thick as soup, but it was peaceful and I was excited about this new little challenge. Running to bootcamp would not be so bad, but running home afterward would be harder. I figured if I was too tired Julie could drive me home.
I arrived a few minutes before the warm-up. We had thirteen 3-minute stations, each with a cardio exercise and a dumb bell exercise. And of course, the burpees were back. I'm getting better at them, but when Colin walks by and tells me to get more air under my feet when I jump up, I laugh inside. Maybe hysterically. It takes all I've got to simply get up!
The workout was great as usual, and my entire body felt like jello when we were finished. I re-filled my water bottle and headed back outside. I had no choice but to run home since Julie hadn't made it to class. I forgot Caleb had a fever and she might need to stay with him. As I started to run on legs that had just done squats of all sorts, lunges in every direction, a million jumps and BURPEES, I comforted myself with the knowledge that I only had 2.2 miles. Surely I could last 2.2 miles...
The sky seemed to have grown even darker and as I started out, I realized there were some menacing looking clouds to the north that appeared to be coming my direction. I'd like to say here that I ran as hard as I could but it would be more accurate to say I trudged as hard as I could. After about a mile, my legs seemed to find a rhythm and I picked up the pace a little. There was no lightning and I got home just fine, missing the downpour by about 20 minutes.
I was completely worn out, but in the good way that shows me I worked. I think it is good training to force tired legs to run, especially with some triathlons coming up. It was tough, but worth it. I will definitely be trying that again.
This morning, for some reason, the alarm was really loud and it startled me. I was wide awake after that and decided today was the day to try running to bootcamp. My clothes were already laid out, along with my watch and ipod just in case I did manage to get out of bed in time. I filled up a water bottle to take with me and set out.
The morning seemed darker than usual and felt as thick as soup, but it was peaceful and I was excited about this new little challenge. Running to bootcamp would not be so bad, but running home afterward would be harder. I figured if I was too tired Julie could drive me home.
I arrived a few minutes before the warm-up. We had thirteen 3-minute stations, each with a cardio exercise and a dumb bell exercise. And of course, the burpees were back. I'm getting better at them, but when Colin walks by and tells me to get more air under my feet when I jump up, I laugh inside. Maybe hysterically. It takes all I've got to simply get up!
The workout was great as usual, and my entire body felt like jello when we were finished. I re-filled my water bottle and headed back outside. I had no choice but to run home since Julie hadn't made it to class. I forgot Caleb had a fever and she might need to stay with him. As I started to run on legs that had just done squats of all sorts, lunges in every direction, a million jumps and BURPEES, I comforted myself with the knowledge that I only had 2.2 miles. Surely I could last 2.2 miles...
The sky seemed to have grown even darker and as I started out, I realized there were some menacing looking clouds to the north that appeared to be coming my direction. I'd like to say here that I ran as hard as I could but it would be more accurate to say I trudged as hard as I could. After about a mile, my legs seemed to find a rhythm and I picked up the pace a little. There was no lightning and I got home just fine, missing the downpour by about 20 minutes.
I was completely worn out, but in the good way that shows me I worked. I think it is good training to force tired legs to run, especially with some triathlons coming up. It was tough, but worth it. I will definitely be trying that again.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Weekly Activity Report
Such as it is, this is my weekly activity report. A huge case of the wearies hit me last week. I'm not sure what it was exactly - if it was the combination of all the new workouts, being low on iron (I slacked off on my multi-vitamin), or not getting enough sleep. Whatever it was, it was bad. All I wanted to do was put my head down on my desk because driving home to get in bed would take too much energy.
And I am not a fan of feeling like that. I like to feel energetic and ready to tackle the day. I like being productive, alert and awake, and I like looking forward to my next workout - not wondering if I have the energy to put on my cycling shorts.
What am I doing about this? Well, I got back on my multi-vitamin and pronto. I'm also taking a closer look at what I'm eating and I'm trying to pack in some nutrients that give energy and help with recovery. I'm trying to go to bed a little earlier and sleep in a little later, while still making time for my morning run.
Sunday, June 19 - Ran 4 morning miles
Monday, June 20 - Ran 7 morning miles, swam at gym after work
Tuesday, June 21 - Bootcamp at 5:30, bike ride got rained out
Wednesday, June 22 - Swam at lunch
Thursday, June 23 - Bootcamp at 5:30, bike 20 miles after work
Friday, June 24 - Ran 6 morning miles, swim canceled due to "contamination event" (yikes!)
Saturday, June 25 - Ran 8 miles, dipped in hotel pool, NAPPED
The mileage is certainly not very high and a few workouts got canceled due to weather and other circumstances, but that may have been a good thing based on how I was feeling. This weekend, Jason attended a swimming clinic in Nashville so I tagged along to get some much desired R&R. I got to sleep in both Saturday and Sunday until around 7:30 (heavenly), and then I was still able to get in a good run because both mornings were rainy and cool.
I napped both afternoons, Saturday in our hotel room and Sunday in the car since I had checked out of our hotel while Jason was still in class. It was a stormy afternoon so I crawled in the backseat with my book and drifted off...for 2 hours! I never would have thought it would be so peaceful to nap in a car but it was.
I think the afternoon nap and a Sundrop on the way home yesterday may have interfered with getting to sleep last night, so I did not run this morning. I have packed running clothes and my swimsuit, however, so I can do one at lunch and one after work. I'd like to rev it up a bit more from last week because the Chattanooga Waterfront Triathlon approaches!
And I am not a fan of feeling like that. I like to feel energetic and ready to tackle the day. I like being productive, alert and awake, and I like looking forward to my next workout - not wondering if I have the energy to put on my cycling shorts.
What am I doing about this? Well, I got back on my multi-vitamin and pronto. I'm also taking a closer look at what I'm eating and I'm trying to pack in some nutrients that give energy and help with recovery. I'm trying to go to bed a little earlier and sleep in a little later, while still making time for my morning run.
Sunday, June 19 - Ran 4 morning miles
Monday, June 20 - Ran 7 morning miles, swam at gym after work
Tuesday, June 21 - Bootcamp at 5:30, bike ride got rained out
Wednesday, June 22 - Swam at lunch
Thursday, June 23 - Bootcamp at 5:30, bike 20 miles after work
Friday, June 24 - Ran 6 morning miles, swim canceled due to "contamination event" (yikes!)
Saturday, June 25 - Ran 8 miles, dipped in hotel pool, NAPPED
The mileage is certainly not very high and a few workouts got canceled due to weather and other circumstances, but that may have been a good thing based on how I was feeling. This weekend, Jason attended a swimming clinic in Nashville so I tagged along to get some much desired R&R. I got to sleep in both Saturday and Sunday until around 7:30 (heavenly), and then I was still able to get in a good run because both mornings were rainy and cool.
I napped both afternoons, Saturday in our hotel room and Sunday in the car since I had checked out of our hotel while Jason was still in class. It was a stormy afternoon so I crawled in the backseat with my book and drifted off...for 2 hours! I never would have thought it would be so peaceful to nap in a car but it was.
I think the afternoon nap and a Sundrop on the way home yesterday may have interfered with getting to sleep last night, so I did not run this morning. I have packed running clothes and my swimsuit, however, so I can do one at lunch and one after work. I'd like to rev it up a bit more from last week because the Chattanooga Waterfront Triathlon approaches!
Friday, June 24, 2011
On Running With Dogs
Upon reading my sad little tale of being in a dry spell, my good friend Julia stepped in and saved the day (or the blog). I met Julia through the wonderful sport of running and she has become a dear friend and running pal over the last few years. She is one of the most consistent runners I know and usually game for anything I or our other running pals come up with to try. We often refer to her as our "GPS" because she knows every possible route for every type of distance or run we want to do.
Julia has made cameo appearances in my blog and is currently contemplating starting one of her own (and I wish she would). I think after you read her post on running with dogs, you will agree with me on that.
There is another man in my life. But donʼt worry; my husband knows about him. He has jet black hair and soulful eyes. Heʼs lean and lanky and handsome. He also drools sometimes and has no regard for personal space. His name is Jordan.
Jordan is my sisterʼs dog. She and her husband adopted him almost three years ago, after he had been hit by a car and had recovered from surgery. His back right leg healed straight, so it sticks out when he sits. But like me, my sister is a runner, and she worked patiently with Jordan until he was able to run up to 8 miles.
Jordan is one of my favorite running partners. He seems to know the difference between running clothes and regular clothes. He waits to start running until he hears the beep of your watch. Sometimes heʼs a little frustrating, like when he has “many sniffs to sniff,” as Jane would say. But heʼs also well-behaved enough to run off the leash, and when he does, he runs with a joy thatʼs contagious. On a recent run with Jane, he happily ignored the early-morning gardeners and passers-by when I simply told him to “stay with us.”
My sister and her husband moved to Ohio recently. My brother-in-law is working towards his Masterʼs degree at Ohio State. My sister is a wonderful running partner as well, so itʼs difficult to face the reality that Iʼll only get to run with her and Jordan so sparingly in the next few years. But hopefully my husband and I will move out of our apartment in the near future, and then we can get our own Jordan (I have a not-so-secret desire to adopt a weimaraner and name it Goucher). Until then, I look forward to my next running date with the Gimp Champion!
Julia has made cameo appearances in my blog and is currently contemplating starting one of her own (and I wish she would). I think after you read her post on running with dogs, you will agree with me on that.
On Running With Dogs
 |
| My brother-in-law has many nicknames for Jordan, including “Jordan Dumpus”, “The Gimp Champion”, “Bereft of Knowledge”, “Oblivious to Mockery”, “An Economic Leech”, and “The King of Fools”. |
Jordan is my sisterʼs dog. She and her husband adopted him almost three years ago, after he had been hit by a car and had recovered from surgery. His back right leg healed straight, so it sticks out when he sits. But like me, my sister is a runner, and she worked patiently with Jordan until he was able to run up to 8 miles.
Jordan is one of my favorite running partners. He seems to know the difference between running clothes and regular clothes. He waits to start running until he hears the beep of your watch. Sometimes heʼs a little frustrating, like when he has “many sniffs to sniff,” as Jane would say. But heʼs also well-behaved enough to run off the leash, and when he does, he runs with a joy thatʼs contagious. On a recent run with Jane, he happily ignored the early-morning gardeners and passers-by when I simply told him to “stay with us.”
My sister and her husband moved to Ohio recently. My brother-in-law is working towards his Masterʼs degree at Ohio State. My sister is a wonderful running partner as well, so itʼs difficult to face the reality that Iʼll only get to run with her and Jordan so sparingly in the next few years. But hopefully my husband and I will move out of our apartment in the near future, and then we can get our own Jordan (I have a not-so-secret desire to adopt a weimaraner and name it Goucher). Until then, I look forward to my next running date with the Gimp Champion!
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
The Dry Spell
I feel like I've hit a dry spell with my blog writing. It isn't that I don't want to write - I long to write every day! I just don't know what I have to say that is worth reading. So I've been thinking about the point of this blog. Why am I writing? What do I hope to accomplish here? Who is my audience and what do I want to say to them?
Well...
I love to write stories. I love to live them and then I love to write them. I like to make up stories too, but I am not as good at that as I'd like to be. Most of the stories that I live are about running, health and fitness, and I am really passionate about these things. I'm passionate about them because I believe they are important. I believe they are important because they have made my own life great. And by great I mean happy, fulfilling, fun, adventuresome, and I think they have made me a better person.
But I haven't really done anything great. I love to run, but I don't run fast when compared to others who write stories. I don't run far when compared to others who write stories. And while I have traveled to some interesting places, most are all on my wonderful home continent. I haven't lost a limb, or fought and beaten cancer, or been chased by wild boars while out running. I'm just regular. At both running and writing stories.
To put it simply, I am your regular, average Jane.
So what does the average Jane have to say? Am I just going to say things because I like saying them, or do I really have something to say? Something interesting, compelling, moving or life changing? That leads me to the purpose of this blog.
The purpose is to show that an average Jane can do things she never thought possible. That she can reach a little higher, stand on her tip toes, stretch tall and grab something new. She can try new things for fun and challenge herself in new ways. And if the average Jane can do this, that means the average Joe or Jill or John can too. And if Joe, Jill and John don't know they can do it, maybe I should tell them.
So that is what I'm trying to do. But then I think they probably already know this stuff. Or what if they don't want to know? Or what if my telling is not interesting? What if I don't really know? I suppose I have to let that stuff take care of itself.
I'd like to think God could use these stories in some small way to reach out to others, to encourage, inspire and uplift. I'd like to think that He could use me and my small, simple life to draw others closer to Him. It may seem like a stretch to believe that stories about running, health and fitness are connected to God, but they have connected me to Him in many ways and they are what I have to work with.
Lately I've been writing about training, the day-to-day stuff. Weekly activity and the challenges of adding new workouts to a busy week. And it just seems dry. Then I think I've got some adventures coming up, some races, some triathlons, some rides but I told these stories last summer. So they feel dry too.
My fingers stand poised above the keyboard and my mind desires to produce great stories in print but there is nothing but dry dessert to be found. Cobwebs in the dusty corners of my mind. While I feel interested in my day-to-day activities, my thoughts, my hopes, my imagination at work - I also recognize all of it for what it is. The regular, average thoughts of the regular, average Jane.
I'm not really sure where to go from here, if there is another direction to go or if I should stay on my current path. I'm looking for inspiration and ideas but for now, dear reader, I have hit a dry spell.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Another Week of Workin' It
And I am already yawning my face off. But that's okay I suppose. My week is off to an okay start, even if I did need some Hershey kisses, a Sundrop and another cup of coffee to get me through today.
First, a recap. I ended up getting those 40 miles I wanted last week out of my 5 running days. Friday afternoon I decided I would go for a run after work and just do a few since I'd been sitting at my desk all day. I felt really good, and that resulted in doing the 7 miles I was supposed to do that morning, at around 8:17 average pace. I came inside to Jason working on one of his bikes and told him I thought the next day's race might be shot. Not that I had designs on doing anything impressive, but in case I did...I probably needed to let that go. I think it was worth it, though.
Saturday morning the alarm clock went off at 4:00 am, but I didn't bother budging until the coffee pot beeped that my coffee was ready. We were in the car and headed to Bell Buckle by 4:30 and running by 7:00. I felt pretty good, and I think the rain had cooled things off a bit. The heat was not overly oppressive, but I did think the hills had grown since the previous year. I did not have a lot of push so I just coasted along, finishing in 1:27, which is an 8:43 average pace. I was 11th out of 61 in my age group.
Sunday morning I attempted a run but my feet and legs and everything else said no. I got in 4 miles with the girls and that was it for the day. Since Tuesdays and Thursdays are devoted to Bootcamp and cycling, I like to run on Sundays to increase the weekly mileage. Nothing major, just something to kick start the week.
This morning I got up a little later than usual and got in 7 miles solo. It felt like running through soup and my knee yelled at me for the first half mile, but it ended up being a good run once things stretched out and let go. This afternoon I will swim and so starts another week of workin' it. I'm not sure I'll reach 40 running miles again, but it is a good number to aim for with 5 days of running instead of 7.
Upcoming events consist of the Firecracker 5k on July 4 (where I'm hoping for a 5k PR) and then begins a little series of triathlons with the Chattanooga Waterfront Triathlon - intermediate distance, July 10th. Until then, run, bike, bootcamp and swim.
First, a recap. I ended up getting those 40 miles I wanted last week out of my 5 running days. Friday afternoon I decided I would go for a run after work and just do a few since I'd been sitting at my desk all day. I felt really good, and that resulted in doing the 7 miles I was supposed to do that morning, at around 8:17 average pace. I came inside to Jason working on one of his bikes and told him I thought the next day's race might be shot. Not that I had designs on doing anything impressive, but in case I did...I probably needed to let that go. I think it was worth it, though.
Saturday morning the alarm clock went off at 4:00 am, but I didn't bother budging until the coffee pot beeped that my coffee was ready. We were in the car and headed to Bell Buckle by 4:30 and running by 7:00. I felt pretty good, and I think the rain had cooled things off a bit. The heat was not overly oppressive, but I did think the hills had grown since the previous year. I did not have a lot of push so I just coasted along, finishing in 1:27, which is an 8:43 average pace. I was 11th out of 61 in my age group.
Sunday morning I attempted a run but my feet and legs and everything else said no. I got in 4 miles with the girls and that was it for the day. Since Tuesdays and Thursdays are devoted to Bootcamp and cycling, I like to run on Sundays to increase the weekly mileage. Nothing major, just something to kick start the week.
This morning I got up a little later than usual and got in 7 miles solo. It felt like running through soup and my knee yelled at me for the first half mile, but it ended up being a good run once things stretched out and let go. This afternoon I will swim and so starts another week of workin' it. I'm not sure I'll reach 40 running miles again, but it is a good number to aim for with 5 days of running instead of 7.
Upcoming events consist of the Firecracker 5k on July 4 (where I'm hoping for a 5k PR) and then begins a little series of triathlons with the Chattanooga Waterfront Triathlon - intermediate distance, July 10th. Until then, run, bike, bootcamp and swim.
Friday, June 17, 2011
Weekly Activity Report
This week turned out to be a bit better than last week as far as workouts go, but I am still in the process of getting used to all the new activity! Whew! Here is what I've got so far:
Sunday, June 12 - Run 7 miles in the morning, bike 10 that afternoon
Monday, June 13 - Run 8 miles in the morning
Tuesday, June 14 - Bootcamp in the morning, bike 12.6 miles in the afternoon
Wednesday, June 15 - Run 8 miles in the morning, swim 30 minutes in the afternoon
Thursday, June 16 - Bootcamp in the morning, bike 15.1 miles in the afternoon
Friday, June 17 (today) ... well, I did not make it out of bed in time. I'm still hoping to get in a swim this afternoon, but I'm a little disappointed by today because if I ran 7 miles this morning, that would have put me at 40 for the week when added to tomorrow's running plans. That's pretty good mileage when 2 days are spent at bootcamp instead of running.
Saturday, June 18 (tomorrow) - Jason and I will run the RC Cola Moonpie 10 Mile in Bellbuckle, TN. We ran this race for the first time in 2007 while we were dating and we have run it every year since. It has become our family tradition. Every year (around mile 7) I ask myself why we made a 10 mile run in June a family tradition and every year I look forward to signing up again. I do not show up to this race with the intention of "racing" but with the hope of surviving and eating a Moonpie afterward (a good bit afterward).
I still find myself completely worn out by the time Friday gets here. I think the addition of swimming and cycling, along with the new Bootcamp class will take some getting used to, but I can also feel myself slowly getting there. I hope to swim at least twice a week (adding to that eventually), and ride my bike on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturday and/or Sunday.
I have organized a tiny but very fun group of novice-like cyclists to ride with me on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. Our first two rides were this week and they were GREAT! I am thrilled to have friends to ride with instead of facing all of my rides alone! Buddies make it better, end of story.
As June comes to a close, my little triathlon season will begin, and I am looking forward to it. I'm hoping that this time around there will be improvement due to experience and I am making an effort to actually train for some of these things. Instead of sprints, I am signing up for intermediate distances. I have my eyes set on something a little bigger in the fall if nothing shows up in the mean time to change my plans.
But for now I take one day at a time and train, trying to build up my strength and fitness for all the summer fun ahead.
Sunday, June 12 - Run 7 miles in the morning, bike 10 that afternoon
Monday, June 13 - Run 8 miles in the morning
Tuesday, June 14 - Bootcamp in the morning, bike 12.6 miles in the afternoon
Wednesday, June 15 - Run 8 miles in the morning, swim 30 minutes in the afternoon
Thursday, June 16 - Bootcamp in the morning, bike 15.1 miles in the afternoon
Friday, June 17 (today) ... well, I did not make it out of bed in time. I'm still hoping to get in a swim this afternoon, but I'm a little disappointed by today because if I ran 7 miles this morning, that would have put me at 40 for the week when added to tomorrow's running plans. That's pretty good mileage when 2 days are spent at bootcamp instead of running.
Saturday, June 18 (tomorrow) - Jason and I will run the RC Cola Moonpie 10 Mile in Bellbuckle, TN. We ran this race for the first time in 2007 while we were dating and we have run it every year since. It has become our family tradition. Every year (around mile 7) I ask myself why we made a 10 mile run in June a family tradition and every year I look forward to signing up again. I do not show up to this race with the intention of "racing" but with the hope of surviving and eating a Moonpie afterward (a good bit afterward).
I still find myself completely worn out by the time Friday gets here. I think the addition of swimming and cycling, along with the new Bootcamp class will take some getting used to, but I can also feel myself slowly getting there. I hope to swim at least twice a week (adding to that eventually), and ride my bike on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturday and/or Sunday.
I have organized a tiny but very fun group of novice-like cyclists to ride with me on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. Our first two rides were this week and they were GREAT! I am thrilled to have friends to ride with instead of facing all of my rides alone! Buddies make it better, end of story.
As June comes to a close, my little triathlon season will begin, and I am looking forward to it. I'm hoping that this time around there will be improvement due to experience and I am making an effort to actually train for some of these things. Instead of sprints, I am signing up for intermediate distances. I have my eyes set on something a little bigger in the fall if nothing shows up in the mean time to change my plans.
But for now I take one day at a time and train, trying to build up my strength and fitness for all the summer fun ahead.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Automatic Impatience
The other day I heard a story on the news about a cyclist who had been hit by a car and killed in our town. I really hate stories like that since I am starting to ride more and more. I brought it up to Jason, asking if he had heard. He rides much more than me and I wanted to remind him to be super extra extremely cautiously careful. He had read the article and he had also read the ugly comments posted about it online. There were so many derogatory comments about the cyclist who was hit, in fact, that the newspaper took it all down.
That disturbed me almost as much as the accident itself. I did not read the comments that were posted, but I have read other articles about runners and cyclists alike and the comment section can get quite heated. Cyclists don't have a right to be out there on those roads. Cyclists shouldn't ride where there is a lot of traffic. It is dangerous to ride your bike on country roads. It is dangerous to ride your bike in town. Cyclists who get hit by cars probably deserve it because they are in the way.
These are not my opinions, but these are the opinions shared in these comment sections (usually with more color and flourish than I have added here), and they do not only apply to cyclists but runners as well. And they unnerve me. If someone can be that angry when they are sitting behind a desk writing a comment, what happens when you get one of these people in the car behind a cyclist?
I think the root of the problem is the attitude of most Americans. Myself (unfortunately) included. I am important. I am more important than you. Where I am going and what I am doing is important and I am in a hurry and you are in my way. Get out of my way. I am important and I am going somewhere.
I have experienced this attitude from motorists when I am running or riding. Even when I have the right of way, I do not always get it, and I know to be on the lookout for this. When I am the motorist, I try to always give runners, pedestrians, and cyclists the right of way. I go around them slowly and carefully when they are on the road I am driving, and I do not mind. But that is because I am a runner and a cyclist.
It is (unfortunately) an entirely different story when I am dealing with other drivers on the road or other patrons in the grocery store. People walk so SLOWLY. And they see you coming and they don't move their cart! And they stand contemplating the ice cream choices forever and they can see me behind them waiting with a kindly (fake) smile on my face because I already know what I want and they are blocking my way. And what is up with driving below the speed limit? How annoying!
And so when I think about it, I may not want to send cyclists and runners home who are in my way, but I do want everyone else to get out of my way and pronto. And the fact is, I rarely have cause for hurry or rush. I am not running late. I am not behind schedule. My impatience is automatic. Why can't I go 35 in a 40? What is my rush? And what is one more minute waiting for the skinny cow ice cream sandwiches when I will be home in plenty of time to do all I want to do before dinner? Who am I, anyway, to deserve that spot in front of that particular aisle the very moment I want it?
It is as if I am programmed to be impatient even without cause. And is there ever really cause? If I am running late for work, whose fault is that? Not the car in front of me going 35 in the 40. Not the cyclist who causes me to slow down.
I have no remedy for this except to be aware of this attitude in myself and to fight against it as often as I see it surface. It is my hope that readers will also take note and possibly find it within themselves to deal more kindly and patiently with anyone on the roads. To be aware. To be safe. To have patience and kindness when dealing with their fellow man. Until they put bike lines on all the roads, I think that is the best we can do.
That disturbed me almost as much as the accident itself. I did not read the comments that were posted, but I have read other articles about runners and cyclists alike and the comment section can get quite heated. Cyclists don't have a right to be out there on those roads. Cyclists shouldn't ride where there is a lot of traffic. It is dangerous to ride your bike on country roads. It is dangerous to ride your bike in town. Cyclists who get hit by cars probably deserve it because they are in the way.
These are not my opinions, but these are the opinions shared in these comment sections (usually with more color and flourish than I have added here), and they do not only apply to cyclists but runners as well. And they unnerve me. If someone can be that angry when they are sitting behind a desk writing a comment, what happens when you get one of these people in the car behind a cyclist?
I think the root of the problem is the attitude of most Americans. Myself (unfortunately) included. I am important. I am more important than you. Where I am going and what I am doing is important and I am in a hurry and you are in my way. Get out of my way. I am important and I am going somewhere.
I have experienced this attitude from motorists when I am running or riding. Even when I have the right of way, I do not always get it, and I know to be on the lookout for this. When I am the motorist, I try to always give runners, pedestrians, and cyclists the right of way. I go around them slowly and carefully when they are on the road I am driving, and I do not mind. But that is because I am a runner and a cyclist.
It is (unfortunately) an entirely different story when I am dealing with other drivers on the road or other patrons in the grocery store. People walk so SLOWLY. And they see you coming and they don't move their cart! And they stand contemplating the ice cream choices forever and they can see me behind them waiting with a kindly (fake) smile on my face because I already know what I want and they are blocking my way. And what is up with driving below the speed limit? How annoying!
And so when I think about it, I may not want to send cyclists and runners home who are in my way, but I do want everyone else to get out of my way and pronto. And the fact is, I rarely have cause for hurry or rush. I am not running late. I am not behind schedule. My impatience is automatic. Why can't I go 35 in a 40? What is my rush? And what is one more minute waiting for the skinny cow ice cream sandwiches when I will be home in plenty of time to do all I want to do before dinner? Who am I, anyway, to deserve that spot in front of that particular aisle the very moment I want it?
It is as if I am programmed to be impatient even without cause. And is there ever really cause? If I am running late for work, whose fault is that? Not the car in front of me going 35 in the 40. Not the cyclist who causes me to slow down.
I have no remedy for this except to be aware of this attitude in myself and to fight against it as often as I see it surface. It is my hope that readers will also take note and possibly find it within themselves to deal more kindly and patiently with anyone on the roads. To be aware. To be safe. To have patience and kindness when dealing with their fellow man. Until they put bike lines on all the roads, I think that is the best we can do.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Tuesday's Treat
Today's Tuesday Treat is a recipe I got from my Mom-in-law. She makes these cookies for my Dad-in-law, hence their given name "Fred's Special Cookies." I am not really sure about the calorie content of these cookies, but since there is butter and sugar involved, I imagine it may be high. However, I think these cookies are perfect for the extremely active individual (distance runner, perhaps) who needs to refuel and seeks to do so in a healthy way. This recipe is also easily modified to your own specific tastes, so take a look and see what you think!
Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Ingredients:
2 eggs
2 sticks of butter
1/2 cup of sugar
1 splash of vanilla
1 cup of whole wheat flour
3 cups of oatmeal (old fashioned)
1 cup of coconut
1 cup of raisins or crasins
1 cup of nuts (pick your favorite)
Mix all the ingredients thoroughly. The batter will be a bit dry. Place tablespoon sized cookies onto a cookie sheet. Smash the batter down to flatten. Bake for approximately 15-20 minutes. Check oven often and remove the cookies at your desired level of crispiness. (Fred prefers them dark and crisp.) Makes about 3 dozen cookies.
If you want to cut the calorie content, try using light butter or you could lessen the amount although that may make the batter too dry so attempt at your own peril. You could always use brown sugar or add cinnamon or nutmeg for a different flavor and possibly play with your dried fruit and nut combination. Just make sure to read the labels on any ingredients you decide to include. I'm not super knowledgeable when it comes to baking, so let me know if you discover some new and delicious combinations!
These cookies work great as a mid-afternoon snack with a cup of coffee and can also make a convenient breakfast on the go when needed. Give this recipe a try and enjoy!
Monday, June 13, 2011
Don't Judge the Run by the Wake-up
This morning, for whatever reason, I felt so heavy and tired. I trudged into the bathroom where my running clothes were waiting on me and slowly started to get dressed. I glanced into the mirror at my sleepy face and droopy eyes and considered going back to bed (if for no other reason than to save my running pals from that sight!). I knew I wanted the miles, though, so I put my hair in a ponytail and went to get a visor.
It could have been the previous afternoon spent outside cycling, and then on the Tennessee River riding in the boat and on the wave runner at some friends' lake house (or would that be a river house?). It could have been the delicious, huge meal I ate that night. It could have been due to little sleep, although I was in bed by 9:30. Sometimes it can be due to nothing at all. Those first few early morning minutes can be hard simply because it is, after all, early morning.
As I poured myself a tall cup of ice water to enjoy after my run, I wondered just what kind of run it would be. We were planning to run 8 miles, but I wasn't sure I felt up for that. I just wanted to close my eyes and crawl back under the covers! Still, I grabbed my keys and headed out the door. No matter how I felt, I was going to get out there and do what I could.
The first mile was challenging, but once I got moving, it felt just fine. Having the girls to chat with along the way helped, and the miles seemed to go by quickly. We held a good pace and I enjoyed that despite my earlier tiredness. There were several small hills along this particular route and we held our pace as we climbed them. We finished strong, with our last mile being one of our fastest.
As we said our good-byes and headed back to our homes, I was pleased and a little surprised that it had gone so well. I was so glad I had come despite how I felt when I first woke up. Sure, sometimes I wake up tired and feel that way throughout my run, but many times I do not. Many times if I can just get myself moving, the hardest part is over and I end up having a great run and starting off my day exactly how I wanted. The same idea goes for running or working out in the afternoon after a busy day of work or school. It is hard to believe that it will feel good, but once I get moving I find it is just what I needed!
So the moral of this story is exactly what the title says. Don't judge the run by the wake-up. Get out there and get moving anyway, and you just might be surprised!
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Weekly Activity Report
Now that my focus has shifted somewhat from training for specific races to working on overall fitness and strength, I am getting to see just how unfit parts of me are! What I mean is OUCH! But in a good way. I told Jason last night that while I do feel sore and creaky, I'm also left with a sense of accomplishment because that soreness means I've worked something not used to being worked.
Still, this week of new things has left me worn out! I discovered that Bootcamp is way harder than running. Instead of putting my legs on autopilot for a jaunt around the neighborhood, I'm asking my entire body to work and in different ways every few minutes. I've also added swimming to the weekly activities in preparation for any upcoming triathlons I may want to enter (particularly Rocketman coming up in August), and since it has been so long, it doesn't take much to wear me out.
So, here is the weekly report. My mileage has taken a big, fat dip in numbers, but that is okay. The workouts have been good and fulfilling despite the fact that they do not all consist of making my weekly mileage numbers pretty.
Sunday - nada (drove home from Kentucky the day after 45 mile Tour de Cave)
Monday - Ran 10 miles
Tuesday - Bootcamp in the morning, yard mowing in the afternoon
Wednesday - Ran 7 miles in the morning, swam 30 minutes that afternoon
Thursday - Bootcamp
Friday - Ran 7 miles in the morning, swam 30 minutes that afternoon
Saturday - TBD
It doesn't look like much when I write it all down, but it sure felt like it! When my head hit the pillow each night, I was OUT until that alarm went off the next morning signaling that it was time to get up and work it again.
This week I will be adding some bike rides on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons and hopefully keeping the swims on Mondays and Wednesdays. I may add a lunch time swim if I want my afternoons free for something else. That usually wakes me up and refreshes me in the middle of my day.
As for today, Saturday, so far I'm resting. I opted for coffee and quiet time instead of a morning run, and so that cancels out any hope of a run until much later in the afternoon due to these nice summer temps. I may ride my bike instead. Either way, I think a day of rest will rejuvenate me to hit it hard again next week. Maybe even a little harder.
Still, this week of new things has left me worn out! I discovered that Bootcamp is way harder than running. Instead of putting my legs on autopilot for a jaunt around the neighborhood, I'm asking my entire body to work and in different ways every few minutes. I've also added swimming to the weekly activities in preparation for any upcoming triathlons I may want to enter (particularly Rocketman coming up in August), and since it has been so long, it doesn't take much to wear me out.
So, here is the weekly report. My mileage has taken a big, fat dip in numbers, but that is okay. The workouts have been good and fulfilling despite the fact that they do not all consist of making my weekly mileage numbers pretty.
Sunday - nada (drove home from Kentucky the day after 45 mile Tour de Cave)
Monday - Ran 10 miles
Tuesday - Bootcamp in the morning, yard mowing in the afternoon
Wednesday - Ran 7 miles in the morning, swam 30 minutes that afternoon
Thursday - Bootcamp
Friday - Ran 7 miles in the morning, swam 30 minutes that afternoon
Saturday - TBD
It doesn't look like much when I write it all down, but it sure felt like it! When my head hit the pillow each night, I was OUT until that alarm went off the next morning signaling that it was time to get up and work it again.
This week I will be adding some bike rides on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons and hopefully keeping the swims on Mondays and Wednesdays. I may add a lunch time swim if I want my afternoons free for something else. That usually wakes me up and refreshes me in the middle of my day.
As for today, Saturday, so far I'm resting. I opted for coffee and quiet time instead of a morning run, and so that cancels out any hope of a run until much later in the afternoon due to these nice summer temps. I may ride my bike instead. Either way, I think a day of rest will rejuvenate me to hit it hard again next week. Maybe even a little harder.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Do Not Underestimate the Minute!
So my sister and I had our very first Bootcamp class at the local Y this morning. We will be attending this class every Tuesday and Thursday morning for the next 6 weeks. I will admit, I was a little apprehensive about this bootcamp thing. It sounded hardcore. It sounded like push ups, sit ups, rolling around in the grass and face paint. Maybe even a tat that said, "G.I. Jane" somewhere on my person. What if the instructor yelled at me and I laughed? Would I have to get down and give him 20? I just wasn't sure about all of this.
Well, it turned out to be nothing more than a good but challenging class inside the YMCA gymnasium. There was a bit of laughing at one point when my sister and I hit the "mountain climber" exercise, but I'm not sure our instructor noticed. It was very tame, although he has promised to bring music next week and I'm hoping for some good pump-you-up songs. The class basically consisted of some running for a warm-up, some squats and leg kick things, and then a circuit of 10 one-minute stations with different exercises that made my entire body feel like jello. After completing these 10 stations twice, we got to pick our favorite one and do that for three minutes. I chose one that worked my arms since that is one of my weakest areas. I hope to be able to move them tomorrow. After the three minute station, we ran to loosen up, and then did a few suicides before stretching it out at the end of the hour.
A great class to be sure, and I learned two valuable things.
#1. Do not underestimate the minute. It is not a mere 60 seconds, it is 60 eternities.
#2. A Burpee is not a cute baby toy or a fizzy slush from Sonic. It is an exercise that leaves you wanting to lie down on the floor with an oxygen mask. Especially when you have to do it for 60 eternities.
As Julie and I walked out to our cars and discussed our levels of jello-ness, we decided we liked this new class and were looking forward to Thursday. I am looking forward to these new physical challenges and hoping to see some positive changes not only in my upper body strength, but in my overall fitness level as well. Whatever the result, I think it is going to be a hoot getting there.
And I bet some face paint probably wouldn't hurt either.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Tour de Cave Ride Report
My 45 mile bike ride through the Kentucky countryside was a success. I had a wonderful time and saw some of the most breathtaking scenery. From gorgeous fields of golden wheat, to charming old houses with bright splashes of color in their gardens, to the lush greenery of the Mammoth Cave National Park, it was an amazing ride. I felt pretty good most of the way, although my bum, back and shoulders got tired a few times.
I ended up riding near a couple and an older man, and while we did not speak much, we rode together companionably. They kept a better pace than I did until we hit a hill and then I was usually the first to the top. My average speed for the ride was 13.3 mph, and that was pleasing to this novice rider. I have a lot of work to do, and I am in the process of planning out weekly rides and actually working on improvement this year. I'd like to get to where I can hold a 15 mph minimum speed for my entire ride (maybe faster for the shorter ones). I have my eyes set on a half-ironman one day, but I need to get considerably more efficient on my bike before I attempt that.
On this ride I loved my surroundings. For most of the morning there was a cool breeze and plenty of shade, so the heat did not bother me much. I passed a dear munching on a bush and she just looked at me as I rode by. There were plenty of hills, but they were gradual and rolling. There was one horrific hill and I did not realize just how steep it was until I was in the midst of climbing. I should have known by the frowny face in front of the words "big hill" spray painted on the road that this was not your average hill, but I powered up as hard as I could. I was standing on my bike, legs pumping, lungs heaving, determined to get to the top without getting off my bike. I made it most of the way before a car drove up behind me. I wasn't super steady on my bike and so I couldn't really stay to the right and let them by. Eventually, I conceded and hopped off. I walked it up the remainder of the hill thinking, "I will be back for you next year...."
Shortly after the hill, there was another warning spray painted on the road that read "Dogs Ahead." I did not see any, but I stayed alert. Sure enough, I heard two hound dogs begin to bark off to my left, and as I turned to look at them, I saw them begin their pursuit. I peddled as hard as I could go, and started laughing, which did not help matters. It just seemed so comical to be peddling like that with two dogs chasing me. I could hear them in the tall grass beside my bike when a car drove passed and they stopped their chase. I was kind of relieved because my legs were still burning from that hill.
The rest of the ride was pretty uneventful. At mile 21.5, I stopped at the aid station and ate a piece of watermelon and half of a banana. I noticed the bowls of M&Ms, but decided against them - a decision I regretted soon after. I was running low on steam, and watermelon and banana did not cut it. I had some honeystinger gummies in my back pocket and so I very expertly (in my opinion) dug them out, opened them and ate four, all while riding. I felt like I was some sort of accomplished rider for the next few miles, and then when the gummies reached my system, I felt great!
I hit another low around mile 40 and I started day dreaming about those M&Ms again. The last 5 miles felt long, and by that time, my back and shoulders were extremely tired. When I reached mile 45 on my speedometer, I looked around at the corn fields surrounding me and said to no one, "I am at mile 45 and I am supposed to be done now..." It was only 2 more miles to the school where we started, but they too seemed like an eternity. When I got off my bike, I gingerly stretched out my aching back and slowly put my bike on the back of the 4Runner before heading over to the tables with snacks and water. AND M&Ms! I refilled my water bottle with cool, fresh water and got a handful of M&Ms. I sat and chatted with the other riders until Jason rode up, completing his 70 mile ride.
On the way home we compared stories and I was amazed at how normal I felt. Once I moved around a little and loosened up my muscles, I felt totally fine. It had taken me 3 and a half hours to complete the 47 miles, and it felt nothing like running for that long. I had a great day and thought to myself that I just might get the hang of this cycling thing before too long. And I welcome the experience of getting there.
Friday, June 3, 2011
Tour de Cave and Training
This time last year Jason headed to Kentucky for the Tour de Cave Metric Century bike ride and I headed with Mom to the middle of nowhere to do the Cahaba River Ramble 10 Mile Trail (and river) Run. Both of us had a great time on our little adventures, especially Jason who enjoyed his first foray into cycling events of this sort.
This year we will both be heading to Kentucky for the Tour de Cave. Jason will be doing the full metric century (70 miles) and I will be attempting the 45 mile distance. I'm pretty sure I can make it, but it has been a while (year-ish) since I have attempted this kind of distance on my bike. I've been riding about 10 miles twice a week and I have really enjoyed it. If such a thing is possible, I feel more settled into it this second time around and I am enjoying it more than I did when I first started riding last year. So we shall see what is in store for me tomorrow.
It would be really nice to have a buddy, but even without one the scenery is usually beautiful on these country rides providing plenty to see and admire. The solitude is peaceful and I usually take advantage of that time alone to think and pray while I'm riding. So despite my novice-hood, I'm looking forward to it.
Jason has recently begun training for his second Ironman coming up in September, and so this 70 mile ride will be just what he needs to get him ready for the long Ironman distances. As usual, he will run beforehand. While I understand what kind of training is required to prepare for an Ironman, I still find myself amazed and impressed by what Jason does each day, and I'm often encouraged to push myself a little more in my own endeavors.
Speaking of which, now that Cotton Row is over, I'm allowing myself to focus on fitness for a while instead of any sort of particular training. I may consider another ultra in the fall, but for now I think I'd like to repeat last summer and participate in a few triathlons, attend century rides with Jason, and steer myself toward yoga and bootcamp as a means of strengthening the muscles that rarely get any attention. The bootcamp class I am taking at the YMCA with my sister starts next week. I am excited and a little nervous. I've been impatient to get started ever since I signed up and I am ready to see some positive changes in my upper body and core muscles. But it is going to be hard, no doubt about that!
But for now, the Tour de Cave in the gorgeous Kentucky countryside. And, if you visit the website linked above, you may notice that the handsome rider featured on the homepage is non other than my very own husband, Jason Reneau.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
The Morning My Legs Showed Up
Following Cotton Row on Monday, this week has been a tough one as far as running goes. My legs (and the rest of me too, for that matter) have been plum worn out. Tuesday I managed 6 miles with the girls, and I don't think I would have made it without Madelyn chatting with me the entire way. Wednesday, which also happened to be National Running Day, I slept in. That left me with a 97 degree 3 mile run for my celebration of the day. I tried to take it slow so I could go further, but by mile 3 the heat was insane so I called it there. I had planned to get on my bike after that but chose dinner (and air conditioning) instead.
This morning, however, I felt ready for a run. I was planning to run the Run Through the Roses 10k course with the girls, and had suggested meeting half a mile away from the actual start so we could get in an extra mile. No one seemed game for this plan, but I decided to do it anyway. I started at 5:00 am, and caught up to them a little over a mile into the run. I ran the course with them, and then decided to add a bit more before I got back to my car. Despite the 75 degree humidity, I felt really good so I decided to take advantage of that. If my legs were actually going to show up ready to run, I was going to run them!
There is also that feeling when I am running solo that I have written about before - the feeling of wanting to hold onto that morning magic. The peacefulness, the beauty of the sunrise, the sweat, the hills, the animals out and about. On this morning run I saw 7 bunnies and 1 hawk, along with countless birds and squirrels as well. I ran my legs for a good 10 miles before returning to my car. I was soaked, but it was great. I had a cool cup of water waiting on me, and I drank most of it before I got home.
I don't know what it is about a good morning run... I think it is the time of day when nothing and no one can claim my time and attention. It is just for me. And it is the time when I feel the most like myself. I'm left alone with my thoughts and the road ahead. While I am out there, the things that might bother me during the day dissipate and don't seem so important. The words and thoughts and noise of the day have not yet crowded in, and my mind is fresh and open and free.
I was grateful that my legs showed up this morning, allowing me to enjoy all of that a bit longer than usual. For a little over an hour and a half it was just me and the open road ahead, letting me travel wherever my legs would carry me. I love that.
This morning, however, I felt ready for a run. I was planning to run the Run Through the Roses 10k course with the girls, and had suggested meeting half a mile away from the actual start so we could get in an extra mile. No one seemed game for this plan, but I decided to do it anyway. I started at 5:00 am, and caught up to them a little over a mile into the run. I ran the course with them, and then decided to add a bit more before I got back to my car. Despite the 75 degree humidity, I felt really good so I decided to take advantage of that. If my legs were actually going to show up ready to run, I was going to run them!
There is also that feeling when I am running solo that I have written about before - the feeling of wanting to hold onto that morning magic. The peacefulness, the beauty of the sunrise, the sweat, the hills, the animals out and about. On this morning run I saw 7 bunnies and 1 hawk, along with countless birds and squirrels as well. I ran my legs for a good 10 miles before returning to my car. I was soaked, but it was great. I had a cool cup of water waiting on me, and I drank most of it before I got home.
I don't know what it is about a good morning run... I think it is the time of day when nothing and no one can claim my time and attention. It is just for me. And it is the time when I feel the most like myself. I'm left alone with my thoughts and the road ahead. While I am out there, the things that might bother me during the day dissipate and don't seem so important. The words and thoughts and noise of the day have not yet crowded in, and my mind is fresh and open and free.
I was grateful that my legs showed up this morning, allowing me to enjoy all of that a bit longer than usual. For a little over an hour and a half it was just me and the open road ahead, letting me travel wherever my legs would carry me. I love that.
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