Saturday morning was "long-run" day with the Little Rock Marathon group, as usual, and this week was the Rhaling Rd. route. Last time I had run this route, we were only doing about 5 or 6 miles on the build-up. All I could think of was that massive hill... and on top of that, it was 80% chance of rain with muggy-warm temps.... As you can imagine, I was dreading that all week long. This week was 14 miles, as I told Cheryl and Kim "a half-marathon without the medal"...
I set out my stuff the night before...clothes, IT Band straps, rain jacket, etc....filled my bottles for my fuel belt...and went to bed, setting my alarm for 4:30. Cheryl wanted us to be at her house at 5:25 to give us plenty of time to get to LR and get a copy of the route. Well.....the next morning I hear this buzz and look at my phone to see that Kim had just texted me that she was on her way to Cheryl's house and that it was 5:13!!!!! I was like "Oh, sh**!" i couldn't believe that I had overslept and was actually supposed to be at her house in about 15 minutes....I texted Kim that I had just woken up and that I was scurrying around to get ready!! Kim said that she would "stall Cheryl"..I threw my clothes on, not even tying my shoes, and grabbed my stuff. Apparently, in all the rush, I forgot my Garmin, which I had wanted to use for the first time since getting it for Christmas...oh well...it was not meant to be that day! Apparently, Kim had been late too, although not as late as I...we jumped in the truck and headed to Little Rock. We got there shortly after 6, about 6:10 or 6:15 and Cheryl went to see if there were any routes left. Not near as many as usual were signed up to run.
We got all of our gear and headed out...stopping every few minutes at first...me to tie my shoe....and at mile 1, we all took off our rain jackets. When we first got to LR it poured for about 2 minutes or less, but when it started, we were like "oh, crap"...but then it quit completely. and Thank God! It never rained the whole time we ran and that was awesome! Overall, the run had its rough spots with the hills and wind. I hadn't done alot of hill work, so I was already anticipating my foot hurting. In reality, though, I had some general soreness in my hip flexors, but my foot did great! It was kind of like doing interval training with all those ups and downs, but I'm sure it was a good cardio workout. Cheryl had to stop once to use the restroom at Kroger. Kim and I wanted to, but we didn't want to take our gear off and have to put it all back on....and then it not fit right...blah, blah....we stopped for water along the way as well near the Pleasant Valley Country Club. It was almost gone because we started late...but we did have enough for each of us to fill up one water bottle or close to it...The last 2 miles was Rhaling Rd. and it was, as anticipated, TORTURE...I had to walk a few times for about 30 seconds at a time. Kim took off and Cheryl was behind me..we finally all caught up across from the meeting place. Cheryl was wishing she had her phone so she could call us and have us pick her up! Kim and I circled the parking lot to get our mileage and we headed to Tom's car to scratch off our names. He showed us the new training t-shirts and we each bought a small...They tend to run out of the smaller sizes first! We stretched and hopped in the car for our post-run tradition...STARBUCK'S!
We headed to the Starbuck's on HWY 10 to wait for the New Balance Store to open. I was planning on taking the insoles they made for me back, so they could be adjusted, but the store didn't open until 10:00. Cheryl ordered her fave drink, to which they informed her that the were out of the "Cinnamon dolche" in all of Central Arkansas....she was, of course, dismayed..I basically accosted Teena, the employee at the counter, asking her if I could have some of the Christmas decor after they take it down and she gave me the phone #, so I could check back later in the week...The New Balance Store was open by the time we left, and we were already 3rd in line to be assisted by the Podorthist on site. Kim ended up randomly buying a pair of her shoes on the spot as I waited. I told the guy that I have now been diagnosed with PF, so he took another imprint of my foot and told me that he would make the new ones out of cork or some substance that would have more "give"...During this whole saga, the associates noticed that we were all wearing Nike socks, called us "traitors"....and when we mentioned that we didn't have any New balance socks...they opened a 3-pack and gave us each a pair for free! They also gave me a pair of shoestrings for free!! My insoles should hopefully be ready in less than a week!
After leaving the New Balance Store, we went to Sports Authority, because I had a gift card to spend!! Usually Sports Authority, in general, sucks...but we actually found some cute pull-overs and I spent my gift card with $2 left to spare! I got a white and a black Alpine pullover and a Nike headband. We each took our turn at the massage chair on display...Kim and Cheryl were "ooooing" and "ahhhing" and I was like "owwww"...the neck rollers were a little lower on me than on the girls...as they pierced my shoulder blades, those two were just laughing at me!! Geez...the stuff I put up with...We made a quick stop at Barnes and Noble so that Cheryl could look for a daily planner, and somehow we were approached by this really wierd guy that was trying to tell us jokes....we spent the rest of the time there hiding from the guy once we got away...
All in all, it was a fun morning...I couldn't believe how great I felt...I know I won't always, but I was so excited my foot was doing so well and I didn't have to wear my IT Band straps the whole time!!
Background
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Merry Christmas!
To all of blog land....Merry Christmas! Cheryl, Kim and I went for a short 5.75 mile run this cold Christmas morning! My IT bands and hip flexors were bothering me a bit (they didn't take a holiday!) but I made it! I haven't been doing hills lately due to my PF, so today was a tad rough. The run was filled with funny stories and laughter and it was just great to be with the girls! Cheryl and I were the picture of Christmas...she with her Santa hat and me with my pink and red striped "legwarmers"....(the Cho-pat strap was a tad tacky with the outfit, but hey, can't help needing that...). We tried to chronicle the outfits, but Kim was having a "I can't work this camera" day and the battery died before we got a good shot....
After the run, we had some wonderful "nutty" coffee and opened presents....I got a cute journal, a serving bowl type thing from Pier 1, an ornament, an apron, some serving napkin/coasters, wonderfully warm and supportive slippers, and a baby piggy bank......I gave Kim a subscription to Ultra Running Magazine and I got Cheryl a runner planner/logbook. Neither present was actually available to give due to the shipping issues, but they were great about it and I hope they like what I got them! Fun morning with my little "running family", #2 and #3, as I affectionately call them! What a great way to start Christmas!
After the run, we had some wonderful "nutty" coffee and opened presents....I got a cute journal, a serving bowl type thing from Pier 1, an ornament, an apron, some serving napkin/coasters, wonderfully warm and supportive slippers, and a baby piggy bank......I gave Kim a subscription to Ultra Running Magazine and I got Cheryl a runner planner/logbook. Neither present was actually available to give due to the shipping issues, but they were great about it and I hope they like what I got them! Fun morning with my little "running family", #2 and #3, as I affectionately call them! What a great way to start Christmas!
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Doctor...doctor...gimmie the news...I got a bad case of...what?
Well, this past Thursday was my much awaited visit with the new Podiatrist, Dr. Bronfman at the Jacksonville Foot and Ankle Clinic. I was somewhat nervous and excited...nervous that he would tell me he couldn't do anything for me or that maybe he didn't know what I was talking about...excited and somewhat hopeful that maybe he could tell me something that might help my foot issues...and therefore, my running.
Dr. Bronfman is a short little man and somewhat intimidating and I was afraid that I wouldn't be able to communicate what I've been experiencing to him or that when I told him what I had tried so far, that he would start to tune me out as I droned on with my saga.. as I talked to him, much of that subsided, and although he was busy, I felt like we talked about most of what I wanted to during the visit. I will now summarize for you what has been his take on my issues....and much of it was contrary to what most very well-meaning people have told me over the past two months....
1. No stress fractures! Yay! Considering that the inside of my foot has hurt since the Spa 10k, I was concerned that it had not really improved since then...However, X-rays reveal the "classic problem foot"....Wide forefoot and narrow heel..which typically makes it very hard to find shoes that fit well. He also suggested that although shoes vary so much depending oon make and model, going up a half size on my next pair might be a good idea. GEEZ....I'm already wearing an 11!
2. I have been told by many that I am a mild overpronator with medium, collapsing arches...Apparently, I am a moderate overpronator with high arches...okay.....next?
3. He wants me to attempt to use my HARD custom made prosthetic insoles that were made at the new Balance store in LR, asking the podorthist that made them to meld down the arch some, because it is too high, causing pressure on the bony area where I have been having so much pain and causing my foot to slide toward the outer part of the shoe....Until then, I can wear my Lynco insoles bought in Memphis at the Expo. The big question with that was "Hard prosthetics with stability shoes?" Well....if the insoles are made well and fit your feet well...he says it shouldn't matter. Don't know about that one...but I'll try it.
4. He didn't say I have to stop running and wasn't even really saying that I have to back off on my mileage, but he did recommend that I run SLOWLY and AVOID HILLS if at all possible. The slow, I can do....hills...well, I'll try my best.
5. I apparently am taking way too much Ibuprofen and with my IBS, he was concerned, so he put me on Mobic 15mg a day. You know you are officially part of the running community when you start taking medicine for arthritis!
6. Lastly..(at least for now)...I have plantar fasciitis....Yep...the dreaded syndrome of all runners....He was examining my foot and pressed on my heel and, yep, it was tender....I am therefore not allowed to go barefoot, or wear flip-flops or slippers anymore, unless they are arch supportive (like Birkenstocks)...I also have to do a couple of foot stretches 3-4 times a day. My follow-up is in 1 month. To be honest, I was actually surprised that he told me to follow up. Usually they just throw stuff at you and tell you to come back if there's still a problem...
Soooo, we will see what all this does for my running. In some respects, the visit was a comfort. He said that I was the 5th person that is training for the LR Marathon that he saw this week! I was beginning to feel like I was crazy or that I was psyching myself out with all these foot issues. It somehow made me feel better knowing that I wasn't alone, that I'm not the only one doing this with aches and pains!!
Dr. Bronfman is a short little man and somewhat intimidating and I was afraid that I wouldn't be able to communicate what I've been experiencing to him or that when I told him what I had tried so far, that he would start to tune me out as I droned on with my saga.. as I talked to him, much of that subsided, and although he was busy, I felt like we talked about most of what I wanted to during the visit. I will now summarize for you what has been his take on my issues....and much of it was contrary to what most very well-meaning people have told me over the past two months....
1. No stress fractures! Yay! Considering that the inside of my foot has hurt since the Spa 10k, I was concerned that it had not really improved since then...However, X-rays reveal the "classic problem foot"....Wide forefoot and narrow heel..which typically makes it very hard to find shoes that fit well. He also suggested that although shoes vary so much depending oon make and model, going up a half size on my next pair might be a good idea. GEEZ....I'm already wearing an 11!
2. I have been told by many that I am a mild overpronator with medium, collapsing arches...Apparently, I am a moderate overpronator with high arches...okay.....next?
3. He wants me to attempt to use my HARD custom made prosthetic insoles that were made at the new Balance store in LR, asking the podorthist that made them to meld down the arch some, because it is too high, causing pressure on the bony area where I have been having so much pain and causing my foot to slide toward the outer part of the shoe....Until then, I can wear my Lynco insoles bought in Memphis at the Expo. The big question with that was "Hard prosthetics with stability shoes?" Well....if the insoles are made well and fit your feet well...he says it shouldn't matter. Don't know about that one...but I'll try it.
4. He didn't say I have to stop running and wasn't even really saying that I have to back off on my mileage, but he did recommend that I run SLOWLY and AVOID HILLS if at all possible. The slow, I can do....hills...well, I'll try my best.
5. I apparently am taking way too much Ibuprofen and with my IBS, he was concerned, so he put me on Mobic 15mg a day. You know you are officially part of the running community when you start taking medicine for arthritis!
6. Lastly..(at least for now)...I have plantar fasciitis....Yep...the dreaded syndrome of all runners....He was examining my foot and pressed on my heel and, yep, it was tender....I am therefore not allowed to go barefoot, or wear flip-flops or slippers anymore, unless they are arch supportive (like Birkenstocks)...I also have to do a couple of foot stretches 3-4 times a day. My follow-up is in 1 month. To be honest, I was actually surprised that he told me to follow up. Usually they just throw stuff at you and tell you to come back if there's still a problem...
Soooo, we will see what all this does for my running. In some respects, the visit was a comfort. He said that I was the 5th person that is training for the LR Marathon that he saw this week! I was beginning to feel like I was crazy or that I was psyching myself out with all these foot issues. It somehow made me feel better knowing that I wasn't alone, that I'm not the only one doing this with aches and pains!!
Friday, December 19, 2008
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
A BIG pain in the neck.............
Well, right now I am sitting inside due to the SHEET of pure ice down our street! Going nowhere today, although I can't say I'm too heartbroken, since I had to miss work. I am, however, disappointed about no outside running or going to the gym....as you can see, my priorities are in the right place!! HA!
Yesterday I woke up with some horrible neck pain and stiffness, but it had started to get better as the morning went on...Somehow in my circuit class, I was doing the Lat Pulldown and I certainly "pulled" something, because I felt my neck spasm after I did it. I don't know if I made it worse or caused some new damage, but after that, much of my workout was useless. I couldn't raise my arms, or do planks or mountain climbers due to the pain...I had to leave the class. I did get in about 15 minutes of the elliptical before class, but it definitely pissed me off....that I hurt myself and that I had to stop....again, priorities....When I got home, I took a hot shower and some Ibuprofen and that seemed to help some. I didn't get adventurous, but I was able to turn my head better side-to-side as the day went on. I had to get my CPR Re-certification, so I announced to my instructor as I entered that I had limited ROM of my neck and "blowing into the dummy" might be hard! Ha! He was really laid back and commented that we would "simulate" breaths, since he didn't know the last time "Annie" had a good cleaning! I normally dread that class every two years, because every time I have had to re-certify, shortly thereafter, I have to use it in a code situation! I don't mean to be superstitious, but I guess I sure do pay alot more attention to detail!!
After the class, I headed to the North Little Rock Athletic Club to run on the indoor track. Twelve laps is one mile, so I did 60....5 miles....I had to keep changing directions, so that the curves wouldn't be on the same side all the time. It was a little boring, but I had my ipod (which, come to think of it, I need to add some more music to) and the softer surface seemed to help my foot hurt less than usual...I was going to go to the 5:30 Sculpt class, but the weather was supposed to start getting bad and I was unsure how smart it would be to go to class and try to lift anything or do anything that might make my neck worse....so I left. It did feel good to get that run in, and I definitely was glad I didn't have to treadmill it! I was glad I left when I did, because it had started to sleet again, and the traffic was horrible!
So....here and now, my neck is worse than yesterday. I tried both ice and heat, they might have helped somewhat, but lying down was the worst position to be in. I got hardly any sleep last night and any time I am in a lying position, I have to physically lift my head with my hand...Geez...I put on SalonPas patches and they seem to help some, but I may have to break out the muscle relaxers later today. I hate to take anything stronger than Ibuprofen, cause those pain pills make me feel funny....I'm hoping I don't have to. Work may be out tomorrow...Aside from the weather, I don't know if I can do patient care, when I can barely lift anything or turn my head...we'll see. Since I'm not getting outside today, I may do my exercise bike for a while to get SOME exercise! My Podiatrist appt is on Thursday and I am praying that God will give him wisdom as to what the deal with my foot is....Normally, I'm not thrilled with going to the doctor, but this guy, Dr. Richard Bronfman at the Jacksonville Foot Clinic, is well known for his treating runners! I'll keep you posted! A look further out to the weekend reveals...weird news, in that it is supposed to be in the 60's and rainy...geez....14 miles in the rain....ugh....
Yesterday I woke up with some horrible neck pain and stiffness, but it had started to get better as the morning went on...Somehow in my circuit class, I was doing the Lat Pulldown and I certainly "pulled" something, because I felt my neck spasm after I did it. I don't know if I made it worse or caused some new damage, but after that, much of my workout was useless. I couldn't raise my arms, or do planks or mountain climbers due to the pain...I had to leave the class. I did get in about 15 minutes of the elliptical before class, but it definitely pissed me off....that I hurt myself and that I had to stop....again, priorities....When I got home, I took a hot shower and some Ibuprofen and that seemed to help some. I didn't get adventurous, but I was able to turn my head better side-to-side as the day went on. I had to get my CPR Re-certification, so I announced to my instructor as I entered that I had limited ROM of my neck and "blowing into the dummy" might be hard! Ha! He was really laid back and commented that we would "simulate" breaths, since he didn't know the last time "Annie" had a good cleaning! I normally dread that class every two years, because every time I have had to re-certify, shortly thereafter, I have to use it in a code situation! I don't mean to be superstitious, but I guess I sure do pay alot more attention to detail!!
After the class, I headed to the North Little Rock Athletic Club to run on the indoor track. Twelve laps is one mile, so I did 60....5 miles....I had to keep changing directions, so that the curves wouldn't be on the same side all the time. It was a little boring, but I had my ipod (which, come to think of it, I need to add some more music to) and the softer surface seemed to help my foot hurt less than usual...I was going to go to the 5:30 Sculpt class, but the weather was supposed to start getting bad and I was unsure how smart it would be to go to class and try to lift anything or do anything that might make my neck worse....so I left. It did feel good to get that run in, and I definitely was glad I didn't have to treadmill it! I was glad I left when I did, because it had started to sleet again, and the traffic was horrible!
So....here and now, my neck is worse than yesterday. I tried both ice and heat, they might have helped somewhat, but lying down was the worst position to be in. I got hardly any sleep last night and any time I am in a lying position, I have to physically lift my head with my hand...Geez...I put on SalonPas patches and they seem to help some, but I may have to break out the muscle relaxers later today. I hate to take anything stronger than Ibuprofen, cause those pain pills make me feel funny....I'm hoping I don't have to. Work may be out tomorrow...Aside from the weather, I don't know if I can do patient care, when I can barely lift anything or turn my head...we'll see. Since I'm not getting outside today, I may do my exercise bike for a while to get SOME exercise! My Podiatrist appt is on Thursday and I am praying that God will give him wisdom as to what the deal with my foot is....Normally, I'm not thrilled with going to the doctor, but this guy, Dr. Richard Bronfman at the Jacksonville Foot Clinic, is well known for his treating runners! I'll keep you posted! A look further out to the weekend reveals...weird news, in that it is supposed to be in the 60's and rainy...geez....14 miles in the rain....ugh....
Monday, December 8, 2008
Red footie pjs....a silver bell...oh, and the Memphis Half Marathon.....
I finally have a few minutes for an update of this past weekend...the Memphis Marathon Weekend in Memphis, TN. It was my first time doing the Memphis race, but for Cheryl and Kim, I believe it was the 3rd year. They convinced me to sign up after the Soaring Wings Half back in October and it was such fun, I gladly complied!! I was hoping just to finish because of all the foot issues I've been having lately...but I'm getting ahead of myself..more on that later...
We all met at Cheryl's house on Friday morning to set out from there. I believe Cheryl ran on her own that morning from her house, Kim went to the gym and ran , and I did a circuit class at 5:30 at the NLR Athletic Club. I didn't want to run the day before the race so my poor foot would function during the race. Of course I had the most stuff...as usual...Kim second...and then Cheryl. In my defense, Cheryl's clothes are pretty much as big as Barbie clothes, so of course, she only had one duffel bag! (ha ha..sorry Cheryl!) Once Kim arrived, we loaded up the car and headed to the Bucks for our coffee. I had to have at least one cup at Cheryl's because I had a BAD caffeine headache going on, but I still got my usual Venti coffee with Hazelnut syrup. Yum! The trip had plenty of conversation as usual, although I HATE the drive to Memphis with a passion... We discovered Kim's "hidden" Enrique Iglesias CD and the heckling began...ugh....It was hilarious! By the time we got to Memphis, we all had to pee pretty bad! It didn't take too long to find a parking spot, we saw Annette and her entourage in the parking lot. Of course, I forgot my running shoes in the trunk, so I had to run back to the car (and leave the girls freezing on the sidewalk) to get my shoes and insoles. We went inside, did the deed (aka went potty), and found our bib numbers. Kim and Cheryl had consecutive numbers in the 5000's, mine was double that 10524! Thankfully, we were able to get a size small shirt (I signed up for a medium) ! We got our "goodie" bags (as Cheryl says...minus the goodies) and started looking around. Most what I saw I had seen online at some point, so I didn't need much, but we did come across some $9.99 stuff and I got a shirt and hat. I really liked the shirt, so I got an extra large, and was glad later when Kim tried hers on and she said it was tight (hers was a medium)...FINALLY we came to the infamous insoles that were going to solve all my problems and cure all my ills...I tried them on and after walking in them a bit, decided to buy a pair. Apparently I have a "bunionette" and place almost no weight on my toes....go figure...As I talked to the reps, Kim and Cheryl talked to Arland and Annette. After that, there wasn't much else to look at, but I did buy a shoe charm for a necklace and we left.
After finding our way to the interstate, we headed another 30 minutes to Aunt Martha's house. I had never met her, but was looking forward to after Kim and Cheryl talked about how fun she is. We made a short pit stop to fuel up (our tummies) at Nook's, getting salads and soup. About halfway through eating, Kim thought she saw her lettuce move....and sure enough, there was a bug crawling in the bottom of her bowl! As you can imagine, that didn't exactly whet our appetites to finish our meal! Cheryl probably would have been okay to eat her soup, but she was so grossed out, she just ate some SEALED bread sticks, as did I. We made a quick pit stop to Kohl's to exchange Kim's hat. We all got matching hats the day after Thanksgiving at Kohl's and hers was torn in one spot....I call them the "yoddle-e-he-hoo" hats, because they have these little Braid-like things that hang down and make us all look like Scandinavian milk maids...The afternoon was finished with a trip to the local Target "just in case" there was something there that the NLR Target didn't have...hehe...and to Aunt Martha's for some dinner and rest. We had a lovely dinner of soup and sandwiches and we were just glad that we didn't have to go back out into the cold (especially Cheryl!). I modeled my long red footie pjs with the sock monkey feet and Cheryl's niece proceeded to poke fun of me...Oh well, it was just a showpiece I decided, I was going to suffocate in that thing (the bedroom was WARM)....We laid out our outfits for the next morning and hit the sack. It took a little while for me and Kim to fall asleep, so as we talked and giggled, Cheryl was wishing we would just SHUT UP...
Me and my infamous Sock Monkey pjs
The next morning we were up with our alarms around 5:45...I scared Kim by folding into "child's pose" on the bed after waking up, cause my back hurt..it was funny! It was SO cold and we were all torn about what to wear. I started out with a performance tank, 2 performance long sleeve shirts , a fleece, and of course, shorts...I ended up taking one of the long sleeves off. Cheryl was conflicted about adding another layer because of the wind, but I think she ended up with her original planned clothing, worried that she would be hot. I went against conventional advice and did something new on race day...I wore my new insoles! I know, I know....many of you are shaking your heads in feigned shame at the "rookie" , but I figured, I could either run in what I KNEW would hurt (aka my current insoles) or try something that MAY or MAY NOT hurt...more on that to come......It didn't take too long to find a place to park, in the parking garage Cheryl and Kim parked in last year. It was fairly close to the start, but we had to find our coral and go potty. We saw Annette, Gary, Michelle, Andrea, and Brenda. I was having BAD performance wear lust, seeing all those wondrous tech shirts, CRX running tights, and fleece cover ups...WE huddled together until the race started and we moved forward in timed increments. I was thinking "Where is that SUN?" It was cloudy and my fingers and toes were numb! They stayed that way until about mile 4 or so. I kept seeing all these cool hats, dropped and unopened Gu, and clothes that I wanted to snatch up....but alas....I could not....It was during these first few miles that I learned my first, of I'm sure many, running myths/lore/superstitions if you will....Apparently you are not supposed to wear the race shirt given to you IN the race....Bad luck? That's what Kim and Cheryl said..and they promptly reminded me that if I wanted to run with them, I would be in my running bra before I would be allowed to wear my race shirt!!!
I was actually pretty comfortable, as far as exertion and foot discomfort for quite a while. We had the usual stops for shoe tying and Cheryl had to hit the Porto-potty at mile 6. The water stations were a bit hairy at times, people just didn't pay attention to where they threw their cups! And speaking of not paying attention....I hate to say it, because I want to use mine, but those ipod people were CLUELESS!!! as far as what was going on around them. It was very frustrating. We also had our share of people that would just STOP right in front of you....I held up pretty well until mile 10, at such time that my foot issues returned. I had to take 2 or 3 15-30 second walking breaks from mile 10-13. We all took turns trying to offer incentives to finish because we were SO OVER IT by mile 12! Coffee.....medal....food.....these were the things that drove us...All in all, I am glad I wore the insoles. I know it's a no-no and I don't intend to start a habit of doing new things on race day, but I think I was actually better off than I would have been had I worn the other ones. I got my second wind about mile 13.001 (just kidding)...but somehow when I saw the finish around the corner....I just pushed it! Kim, Cheryl, and I crossed the finish line at the EXACT same time 2:14:19 and although I didn't PR or set any speed records.. I was just so happy #1 to be done, #2 to have run almost the entire race, and #3 to have finished at all. After all those foot issues, I seriously was questioning even finishing! There's time for a new PR later!
We were herded through the stadium area to the stairs, after getting our time chips cut off and getting our stylish Mylar blankets and medals. Some guy near us was saying how he felt "weird" and lightheaded and looked a little spacey..I offered him my Gu and got him a bottled water. I've seen that look many a time before, he looked like he was about to crash from low blood sugar! His friend assured that he would "look out for him", but he seemed more interested in telling his friend a story....geez...I was thinking to myself how dumb that guy was for not eating anything...and then I remembered that I had only one Gu at mile 7 and had only drank a small G2, much less than I usually consume. I'm usually pretty good at fueling up regularly! We finally got up the stairs into the "wind tunnel" to line up for food. I ate a banana, 1/4 cup veggie soup and 2 NutterButter cookies I was ready for some STARBUCKS!! We decided to go to the car to warm up and get some more layers so we could come back and watch Brenda and Andrea finish the marathon. On the way to the car, Cheryl had her Mylar blanket wrapped around her and all you could see was the silver blanket on top and her little legs sticking out the bottom...Kim and I cackled like crazy, as I started singing "Silver bells....." It was hilarious! Here we are (Cheryl and I, pic below) finally partaking in some coffee...as you can see, I'm not quite coherent yet...
By the time we got our layers, coffee, and a bathroom pit stop out of the way...we realized that it was about 15 minutes until Brenda and Andrea planned to be done! We hurried over to the stadium, found a place in the COLD shade close to the front and watched Brenda come in at a little over 4 hours, Andrea in around 4:28 ish?...we were excited for them! After that, we went to the car and tried to find our way out of the city. We saw Annette just as we were stopped for a second in traffic and we all yelled "Hey Annette!" She was trucking along, and I think she was fairly close to the end! It was soooo cold that day, we were all glad that we didn't have to do the full! But all those who did were awesome!
After getting to Aunt Martha's, we took a shower and headed out to shop...yes....you heard that right folks....although it didn't last long. We went to World Market and the mall, and finished up the evening with dinner at Ruby Tuesday's. My turkey burger was awesome and I actually was converted to liking guacamole after I tried some that Cheryl and Kim ordered! W
e headed back to Aunt Martha's and chilled for the evening, we were beat! The next morning we headed out for home around 8-8:30, with our Starbucks trip along the way. Cheryl had to get back to pack for Seattle and Kim had to pack for Texarkana. I was sooo glad I didn't have anywhere to be on Monday! It was a fun trip and I am so glad I could be a part of it, not only for the company, but that I could do the race. My only focus now is the LR Marathon....
We all met at Cheryl's house on Friday morning to set out from there. I believe Cheryl ran on her own that morning from her house, Kim went to the gym and ran , and I did a circuit class at 5:30 at the NLR Athletic Club. I didn't want to run the day before the race so my poor foot would function during the race. Of course I had the most stuff...as usual...Kim second...and then Cheryl. In my defense, Cheryl's clothes are pretty much as big as Barbie clothes, so of course, she only had one duffel bag! (ha ha..sorry Cheryl!) Once Kim arrived, we loaded up the car and headed to the Bucks for our coffee. I had to have at least one cup at Cheryl's because I had a BAD caffeine headache going on, but I still got my usual Venti coffee with Hazelnut syrup. Yum! The trip had plenty of conversation as usual, although I HATE the drive to Memphis with a passion... We discovered Kim's "hidden" Enrique Iglesias CD and the heckling began...ugh....It was hilarious! By the time we got to Memphis, we all had to pee pretty bad! It didn't take too long to find a parking spot, we saw Annette and her entourage in the parking lot. Of course, I forgot my running shoes in the trunk, so I had to run back to the car (and leave the girls freezing on the sidewalk) to get my shoes and insoles. We went inside, did the deed (aka went potty), and found our bib numbers. Kim and Cheryl had consecutive numbers in the 5000's, mine was double that 10524! Thankfully, we were able to get a size small shirt (I signed up for a medium) ! We got our "goodie" bags (as Cheryl says...minus the goodies) and started looking around. Most what I saw I had seen online at some point, so I didn't need much, but we did come across some $9.99 stuff and I got a shirt and hat. I really liked the shirt, so I got an extra large, and was glad later when Kim tried hers on and she said it was tight (hers was a medium)...FINALLY we came to the infamous insoles that were going to solve all my problems and cure all my ills...I tried them on and after walking in them a bit, decided to buy a pair. Apparently I have a "bunionette" and place almost no weight on my toes....go figure...As I talked to the reps, Kim and Cheryl talked to Arland and Annette. After that, there wasn't much else to look at, but I did buy a shoe charm for a necklace and we left.
After finding our way to the interstate, we headed another 30 minutes to Aunt Martha's house. I had never met her, but was looking forward to after Kim and Cheryl talked about how fun she is. We made a short pit stop to fuel up (our tummies) at Nook's, getting salads and soup. About halfway through eating, Kim thought she saw her lettuce move....and sure enough, there was a bug crawling in the bottom of her bowl! As you can imagine, that didn't exactly whet our appetites to finish our meal! Cheryl probably would have been okay to eat her soup, but she was so grossed out, she just ate some SEALED bread sticks, as did I. We made a quick pit stop to Kohl's to exchange Kim's hat. We all got matching hats the day after Thanksgiving at Kohl's and hers was torn in one spot....I call them the "yoddle-e-he-hoo" hats, because they have these little Braid-like things that hang down and make us all look like Scandinavian milk maids...The afternoon was finished with a trip to the local Target "just in case" there was something there that the NLR Target didn't have...hehe...and to Aunt Martha's for some dinner and rest. We had a lovely dinner of soup and sandwiches and we were just glad that we didn't have to go back out into the cold (especially Cheryl!). I modeled my long red footie pjs with the sock monkey feet and Cheryl's niece proceeded to poke fun of me...Oh well, it was just a showpiece I decided, I was going to suffocate in that thing (the bedroom was WARM)....We laid out our outfits for the next morning and hit the sack. It took a little while for me and Kim to fall asleep, so as we talked and giggled, Cheryl was wishing we would just SHUT UP...
Me and my infamous Sock Monkey pjs
The next morning we were up with our alarms around 5:45...I scared Kim by folding into "child's pose" on the bed after waking up, cause my back hurt..it was funny! It was SO cold and we were all torn about what to wear. I started out with a performance tank, 2 performance long sleeve shirts , a fleece, and of course, shorts...I ended up taking one of the long sleeves off. Cheryl was conflicted about adding another layer because of the wind, but I think she ended up with her original planned clothing, worried that she would be hot. I went against conventional advice and did something new on race day...I wore my new insoles! I know, I know....many of you are shaking your heads in feigned shame at the "rookie" , but I figured, I could either run in what I KNEW would hurt (aka my current insoles) or try something that MAY or MAY NOT hurt...more on that to come......It didn't take too long to find a place to park, in the parking garage Cheryl and Kim parked in last year. It was fairly close to the start, but we had to find our coral and go potty. We saw Annette, Gary, Michelle, Andrea, and Brenda. I was having BAD performance wear lust, seeing all those wondrous tech shirts, CRX running tights, and fleece cover ups...WE huddled together until the race started and we moved forward in timed increments. I was thinking "Where is that SUN?" It was cloudy and my fingers and toes were numb! They stayed that way until about mile 4 or so. I kept seeing all these cool hats, dropped and unopened Gu, and clothes that I wanted to snatch up....but alas....I could not....It was during these first few miles that I learned my first, of I'm sure many, running myths/lore/superstitions if you will....Apparently you are not supposed to wear the race shirt given to you IN the race....Bad luck? That's what Kim and Cheryl said..and they promptly reminded me that if I wanted to run with them, I would be in my running bra before I would be allowed to wear my race shirt!!!
I was actually pretty comfortable, as far as exertion and foot discomfort for quite a while. We had the usual stops for shoe tying and Cheryl had to hit the Porto-potty at mile 6. The water stations were a bit hairy at times, people just didn't pay attention to where they threw their cups! And speaking of not paying attention....I hate to say it, because I want to use mine, but those ipod people were CLUELESS!!! as far as what was going on around them. It was very frustrating. We also had our share of people that would just STOP right in front of you....I held up pretty well until mile 10, at such time that my foot issues returned. I had to take 2 or 3 15-30 second walking breaks from mile 10-13. We all took turns trying to offer incentives to finish because we were SO OVER IT by mile 12! Coffee.....medal....food.....these were the things that drove us...All in all, I am glad I wore the insoles. I know it's a no-no and I don't intend to start a habit of doing new things on race day, but I think I was actually better off than I would have been had I worn the other ones. I got my second wind about mile 13.001 (just kidding)...but somehow when I saw the finish around the corner....I just pushed it! Kim, Cheryl, and I crossed the finish line at the EXACT same time 2:14:19 and although I didn't PR or set any speed records.. I was just so happy #1 to be done, #2 to have run almost the entire race, and #3 to have finished at all. After all those foot issues, I seriously was questioning even finishing! There's time for a new PR later!
We were herded through the stadium area to the stairs, after getting our time chips cut off and getting our stylish Mylar blankets and medals. Some guy near us was saying how he felt "weird" and lightheaded and looked a little spacey..I offered him my Gu and got him a bottled water. I've seen that look many a time before, he looked like he was about to crash from low blood sugar! His friend assured that he would "look out for him", but he seemed more interested in telling his friend a story....geez...I was thinking to myself how dumb that guy was for not eating anything...and then I remembered that I had only one Gu at mile 7 and had only drank a small G2, much less than I usually consume. I'm usually pretty good at fueling up regularly! We finally got up the stairs into the "wind tunnel" to line up for food. I ate a banana, 1/4 cup veggie soup and 2 NutterButter cookies I was ready for some STARBUCKS!! We decided to go to the car to warm up and get some more layers so we could come back and watch Brenda and Andrea finish the marathon. On the way to the car, Cheryl had her Mylar blanket wrapped around her and all you could see was the silver blanket on top and her little legs sticking out the bottom...Kim and I cackled like crazy, as I started singing "Silver bells....." It was hilarious! Here we are (Cheryl and I, pic below) finally partaking in some coffee...as you can see, I'm not quite coherent yet...
By the time we got our layers, coffee, and a bathroom pit stop out of the way...we realized that it was about 15 minutes until Brenda and Andrea planned to be done! We hurried over to the stadium, found a place in the COLD shade close to the front and watched Brenda come in at a little over 4 hours, Andrea in around 4:28 ish?...we were excited for them! After that, we went to the car and tried to find our way out of the city. We saw Annette just as we were stopped for a second in traffic and we all yelled "Hey Annette!" She was trucking along, and I think she was fairly close to the end! It was soooo cold that day, we were all glad that we didn't have to do the full! But all those who did were awesome!
After getting to Aunt Martha's, we took a shower and headed out to shop...yes....you heard that right folks....although it didn't last long. We went to World Market and the mall, and finished up the evening with dinner at Ruby Tuesday's. My turkey burger was awesome and I actually was converted to liking guacamole after I tried some that Cheryl and Kim ordered! W
e headed back to Aunt Martha's and chilled for the evening, we were beat! The next morning we headed out for home around 8-8:30, with our Starbucks trip along the way. Cheryl had to get back to pack for Seattle and Kim had to pack for Texarkana. I was sooo glad I didn't have anywhere to be on Monday! It was a fun trip and I am so glad I could be a part of it, not only for the company, but that I could do the race. My only focus now is the LR Marathon....
Sunday, December 7, 2008
A short blurb, if you will....
I don't want to let too much time pass before I chronicle the events of the past few days, but right now, I don't have the energy to blog the complete saga. Just to say that this past Memphis Marathon weekend was cold, fun, and tiring! I hope to add more in the next few days, so, until then....
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Prudence wins out......and laziness too...
Well...I decided it would not be prudent to run today, despite my need to get at least 4 miles in. It was windy and cold and I was all too happy to "cop out", if you will, on today's run.... I found a podiatrist that I wanted to see today, Richard Bronfman, at the Jacksonville Foot Clinic. But, alas, he was booked until next Thursday. I asked the receptionist to notify me ASAP if there was a cancellation. I was hoping to get some feed back from him before heading to the Memphis Half, about my foot issues. He is a member of the American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine and has lots of experience dealing with runners and their foot issues. I thought about seeing someone else, but I would really rather deal with someone who knows more about running injuries, etc. I called back to get an appt. and was dismayed to discover that while I was deciding what to do, the appts. for next week had filled up and I would not be able to see him until December 18th! Oh well....I made the appt. anyway...
Cheryl and I talked some about what to do and she thought it best as well to wait for the "expert". We chatted excitedly about Saturday and even though I am apprehensive...I am much more comfortable with allowing myself to finish however I need to, walking or not.....fast or not... We are staying at Aunt Martha's and she is excited to have us! She said that there is a Panera that was just opened down the road from her, so looks like all of us, even Kim, will be able to eat....
Tonight will be filled with packing and resting my foot/ankle. I'm not sure what to wear yet...the weather will probably be in the 30's with a slight wind...but I am planning to wear shorts anyway...as long as I have enough layers on top, I'm usually ok...Well, new post to come after the Half!
Cheryl and I talked some about what to do and she thought it best as well to wait for the "expert". We chatted excitedly about Saturday and even though I am apprehensive...I am much more comfortable with allowing myself to finish however I need to, walking or not.....fast or not... We are staying at Aunt Martha's and she is excited to have us! She said that there is a Panera that was just opened down the road from her, so looks like all of us, even Kim, will be able to eat....
Tonight will be filled with packing and resting my foot/ankle. I'm not sure what to wear yet...the weather will probably be in the 30's with a slight wind...but I am planning to wear shorts anyway...as long as I have enough layers on top, I'm usually ok...Well, new post to come after the Half!
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Good day....sunshine...
What a beautiful day! Aside form the wind, the sunny and somewhat warmer day had me stepping outside this afternoon before Pilates for a short run. I need to get a few runs in this week before the Memphis Half on Saturday and I have to work tomorrow....
Kim, Cheryl, and I did the 6 mile loop yesterday and it was definitely a Monday! We were huffing and puffing as usual. It was pretty cold, but not quite as cold as I expected. I had shorts, 3 performance shirts, and a fleece on top...and of course, my gloves and headband (I WILL wear shorts as long as possible!!). I was quite comfortable. My fingers did stay pretty cold throughout the whole run though. For some reason, we got home later than usual and Kim didn't have time to stay for coffee. Cheryl and I enjoyed a couple of cups and then I headed out and she had some work to do. My foot was still sore, but not as bad as it was at the 6 mile point on Saturday's long run. I continue to do the ice packs, Ibuprofen, and SalonPas....
Back to today's run.....it was in my neighborhood...and I do mean "hood"...although in the light of day, it almost looks like a safe neighborhood..haha...Anyhoo, did my little 4 mile route, which is basically a few streets around my neighborhood and back home. My foot hurt quite a bit at first, let up, and then started to hurt again right before I finished. Luckily I was almost done, I could start to feel the pain creeping up the right inner leg. Geez...it's probably a good idea that I'm not running Friday with the girls before we leave, cause we will be walking around at the Expo and I'm going to try to rest it as much as possible before the race. My weird splits were:
1.5 miles 13:58
1.0 mile 8:44 (what?!)
1.5 miles 12:34
The pace felt pretty comfortable, as far as stamina, except for the foot issues. No knee pain or IT Band pain today...yay!!! I have been chatting with people via blogs and am hoping to check out the Breakaway Store in Memphis to see if I need a shoe and/or insole adjustment. Right now I am in a stability shoe with Powerstep insoles, because the orthotics I had made are too hard to wear. Apparently, this is a common thing for the New Balance store in Little Rock to set people up with a stability/orthotic combo...an apparent no-no in Memphis. I tried to give those orthotics a chance again yesterday, but I just couldn't wear them more than 1/2 hour. I've heard that some people need a neutral shoe with orthotics. I wasn't that sure that I am an overpronator, but I found out that I am a heel-striker and that means I, most likely, am overpronating. Anyhoo, as far as the pain goes, I think heating packs are better for me than ice, so maybe that will help me recover faster.
As a side note, I got some Sharkies and a Nike top on sale today at Academy...yay...My next run will probably be Thursday after work, hopefully another 4 miler.
Kim, Cheryl, and I did the 6 mile loop yesterday and it was definitely a Monday! We were huffing and puffing as usual. It was pretty cold, but not quite as cold as I expected. I had shorts, 3 performance shirts, and a fleece on top...and of course, my gloves and headband (I WILL wear shorts as long as possible!!). I was quite comfortable. My fingers did stay pretty cold throughout the whole run though. For some reason, we got home later than usual and Kim didn't have time to stay for coffee. Cheryl and I enjoyed a couple of cups and then I headed out and she had some work to do. My foot was still sore, but not as bad as it was at the 6 mile point on Saturday's long run. I continue to do the ice packs, Ibuprofen, and SalonPas....
Back to today's run.....it was in my neighborhood...and I do mean "hood"...although in the light of day, it almost looks like a safe neighborhood..haha...Anyhoo, did my little 4 mile route, which is basically a few streets around my neighborhood and back home. My foot hurt quite a bit at first, let up, and then started to hurt again right before I finished. Luckily I was almost done, I could start to feel the pain creeping up the right inner leg. Geez...it's probably a good idea that I'm not running Friday with the girls before we leave, cause we will be walking around at the Expo and I'm going to try to rest it as much as possible before the race. My weird splits were:
1.5 miles 13:58
1.0 mile 8:44 (what?!)
1.5 miles 12:34
The pace felt pretty comfortable, as far as stamina, except for the foot issues. No knee pain or IT Band pain today...yay!!! I have been chatting with people via blogs and am hoping to check out the Breakaway Store in Memphis to see if I need a shoe and/or insole adjustment. Right now I am in a stability shoe with Powerstep insoles, because the orthotics I had made are too hard to wear. Apparently, this is a common thing for the New Balance store in Little Rock to set people up with a stability/orthotic combo...an apparent no-no in Memphis. I tried to give those orthotics a chance again yesterday, but I just couldn't wear them more than 1/2 hour. I've heard that some people need a neutral shoe with orthotics. I wasn't that sure that I am an overpronator, but I found out that I am a heel-striker and that means I, most likely, am overpronating. Anyhoo, as far as the pain goes, I think heating packs are better for me than ice, so maybe that will help me recover faster.
As a side note, I got some Sharkies and a Nike top on sale today at Academy...yay...My next run will probably be Thursday after work, hopefully another 4 miler.
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