December 2-December 29, 2012

 

December 29, 2012

I took several days off to enjoy the family and the holidays, but I am happy I got to get out and run today.  My husband and I headed out after the snow stopped and our brains got stuck trying to finish a holiday puzzle.  I didn't think I would be going very far (2-3 miles max) but the air was warmer than I thought it was going to be and I logged 4.52 miles today.  My pace was a little slow, but that is ok.      Funny, it is almost easier to run when you have very little time in the day than to run when you have lots of time!  I think for me, it is because I have to schedule everything in the day when I am busy, and on days I have lots of time, I waste a lot of it!  I also try to fill my days with a lot of projects that I want to do.  I have another fleece running skirt half made already.  I helped my daughter finish an apron that she had started and working on my skirt at the same time.  I still need to post the directions and photos for making my skirt on this site.      After 6+ months of running, I am very proud of myself.  I began running and barely could run 1/4 mile at a time.  Now I can run 4, 6, and more without stopping.  And my lungs and asthma seem to benefit!  I have not caught the flu, I haven't been really sick a day yet, and I've had fewer asthma attacks. So this is definitely working for me!

December 24, 2012

Today is Christmas Eve and my daughters and I were able to head out and run.  My husband wanted to head out with us since he was stuck on the phone with hughes net about our internet.  :-(     But, as we ran, it was snowing again.  We met a couple that was also out running, which was inspiring and cool.  It snowed for the first part of the run, quite a bit.  As I ran farther and farther, it started slowing down.  It was also getting icy on the road, so I had to watch where I stepped as I ran.  I ran a total of 7.26 miles today.  My pace was a little bit slower, but that is ok.  Merry Christmas!

December 21, 2012

Today was our last day at school until January 2013!  I was able to leave a little early (a holiday gift from admin) and headed home to suit up and get ready.  It was 38 degrees when I hit the pavement!  Whew!  As I ran, there were snow flurries sticking to my eyelashes and actually landing in my eyes.  How weird and still somewhat amazing!  I love the time when the snow is falling and everything seems so still and quiet.  It is quite calming and relaxing to run in snow.  Definitely different than running in the rain.      I was able to run 4.10 miles today in the snow.  It was cold.  I worked on my form and making sure I was running on my forefoot instead of my heels.  I was having a little heel soreness from not quite running correctly.  But, I ran.

December 19, 2012

This is our last week of school before the Christmas break, so things are busy!  So many people have been out with the flu, including my assistant, so things do not always go as planned.  It is funny how one thing that might change in your daily schedule, can affect everything else in your day.  But, luckily I got home in time to fit in a run tonight.      I logged 4.06 miles and kept my average pace at a 12:00 minute mile.  Running in twilight is its own challenge.  To me, it is the hardest part of the day to see and focus my vision on anything.  Add to it the amount of cars that are driving home from work or whatever, and it is just a busy time of day.  I do my best to stay alert and try to keep myself safe.

December 15, 2012

Today is Saturday, so luckily I don't have to wait to run until the evening and worry about how dark it is going to be.  I drove the car to the church, then ran home, back to 231, then back to the church.  I felt pretty good today, and my breathing was ok.  It really wasn't too cool today, compared to how cool it can be in the evenings.  I ran a total of 7.2 miles-- averaging a 12:00 minute mile pace.  I walked 2/10s of a mile at the half way point and ran the rest of the way.  The hills here are some of the hardest parts of my route to complete.  Some days I can run down and up them ok, then other days I just feel as if I am never going to make it up or down the hill. Today wasn't too bad.

December 13, 2012

Tonight it got dark close to 5:00 pm, which really makes it hard to work all day, come home and get ready, and head out.  Luckily, the darkest day is only a week away and things should start getting lighter slowly after that.  It is also hard to work, run, then write on this blog, so some of these are written a few days / weeks later.      I ran 3.94 miles today--almost 4 miles!  My goal today was to run as much as I could without walking.  I walked the first 2-3 minutes, then ran the rest of the route.  It felt good to do that.  Every day that I run, is a day closer to finishing a half marathon.  I will do it!

December 11, 2012

It is getting dark when I run in the evenings after work, and cold!  For that reason, I was only able to get in a 3.1 mile run today.  By the time I get home and change, take my meds, and layer all my layers on, it is that much closer to getting dark for the night.  I kept a pretty good pace, but most of my thoughts were on trying to keep the air that I breathed in from being so cold.  My husband bought me a Buff headwarmer, and with a little work, I can make that cover my nose and mouth and warm the air that I breathe in.  The worst is that it can get wet as I breathe out, which can be a little annoying against my mouth while running.

December 8, 2012--Surf 'n Santa 10 miler

Thursday night and Friday were pretty rough days.  We had a sick dog in pain who kept us up until 3 am Friday morning, so getting through work was very difficult since I was so tired.  My husband stayed home to make the emergency vet visit with our dog.  Luckily, we have amazing vets, and after some observation, x-rays, and a steroid shot, she was feeling much better.  Once I finished with work, I picked up our dog and headed home.  We loaded up the car and headed out to Virginia Beach.  We finally got there around 10:30 at night, tried to unwind, pulled out our clothes, and hit the hay.      We woke up early and grabbed a little breakfast, then headed out to get our registration packets.  It was a little foggy and misty, so trying to figure out what to wear wasn't easy.  I decided to wear a running skirt and long sleeve shirt.  I changed my shoes once we got our packets and put my VFFs on.  We stored our stuff in the car so my husband could pick it up when he finished his race.      We got to start in the same corral which was great.  The crowd was so festive and full of holiday spirit.  There were runners dressed as Christmas trees, Santas, Cookies, elves, and just about anything you could imagine.  I have no clue how they were able to actually run in some of the costumes!  Most of the 5K runners wore jingle bells (we each got one when we got our packets) and more costumes.  The 5K and 10 mile runners stayed together for the first 3 miles, and then we veered off to finish our next 7 miles.  Even though the crowds were less once we split, there were still tons of people running.  I kept a steady pace the whole race, only slowing down between miles 7 and 8.  Luckily I didn't stop running for long, just about 1-2 tenths of a mile.  I drank water or gatorade at every water stop except the very last one.  I met some really nice people while running--we chatted about how much farther to go (when do we turn around...34th?  we are only at 21st!), about other races, and how perfect the weather was today for running.  One of my favorite parts was when I rounded the turn on 2nd to the Boardwalk and got a whiff of the ocean breeze.  It was amazing to run and smell the salty air.  There were also bands and A Capella groups along the course that were singing Christmas carols.  There were radio stations also broadcasting and one even handing out mardi gras type beads to runners.  Although, running the last half with beads bouncing as I ran was a little weird.      Making the final couple of turns into the Convention Center (the finish line was actually in the building) was amazing.  I became teary-eyed when I turned the second turn and realized that I had really just run 10 miles, and finished! And I beat my goal time of 2 hours!  I really was a bit worried about it and nervous, so it was pretty emotional to finish.  When I ran into the building, they were announcing the runners who entered, and I actually heard my name.  I saw my husband with the camera trying to take a photo as I funneled through the volunteers that were handing us water, Gatorade, Power bars, a commemorative glass, and other goodies.  Once I reached my husband, I gave him a huge hug.  I was relieved, proud, and exhausted.  The Convention Center was packed with runners and friends, and there were loads of decorations and a live band.  We had fun walking around, taking pictures, and enjoying the food and drinks.     We left the convention center and headed back to the hotel to shower and checkout.  Once I had a chance to check my watch, I was thrilled by my times.  My average mile time was 11:19, and I kept my pace pretty steady, with the 7th and 8th mile being the slowest ones.  I actually tackled a longer race and succeeded!   This was a great run and a lot of fun.  They hold four different runs during the year, and they are probably all as well managed as this one was.  A very good day indeed.

December 4, 2012

Today was a school day, but I came home on time so I could run.  I suited up and took my meds and headed out.  It was nice weather so I did an easy run.  I ran about 2 miles and wore my Merrells tonight.  My ankles were a little sore, it seems to happen sometimes when I change the shoes that I chose to wear.  So I'm not sure what shoes I should wear on my 10 mile race on Saturday.  Which by the way, I'm a little nervous about.  I haven't run 10 miles ever, so hopefully I can do it.  Tonight my run was easy on the legs and easy on my lungs.

December 2, 2012

    Today was Sunday, so we ate breakfast, went to church, and came home to get ready for a long run.  I have got to plan better for these longer runs than I have been. Racing a long run is actually easier because there are plenty of port-potties and water stations on a race course, and none on my neighborhood route.  I brought my hand held water bottle, plenty of kleenexes and chapstick.  I also took my Benadryl and inhaler and dresses appropriately, so I thought I would be good to go.  We drove to the Baptist church down the road and then we both ran to 231 and turned around.  Chris ran a route right by the car and I continued all the way to the Boston Store and route 522.  My total mileage was 8.5 miles today!  But, it wasn't my best run.  About 6 miles into the run, I became so hungry I was lightheaded.  I meant to grab a gel pack before leaving, and totally forgot.  So I have to remember this for my next big run.  I think I would have felt much better running if I had done that.  I basically walked almost a mile because I was totally wiped out and struggling with running.  I really haven't felt that way too often, and I really don't like how it made me feel!  I also had to go to the bathroom (again!) so I need to remember to hit the toilet one last time before leaving.  Our road is about half way down the route I ran, and I seriously thought about going the 2/10ths of a mile down to hit the restroom and grab a gel, but I didn't.  I would have felt much better today on the last part if I had done that.  Well, chalk it up to something learned.  I finished 8.5 miles in 1:46.  Next week is my first 10 mile run ever! 

November 6-November 30, 2012 posts

 

November 30, 2012

posted Dec 2, 2012 5:02 PM by Barbara Wheatley

Today was another cold day.  Luckily, I made my fleece skirt the other night....and it is wonderful!  It works to keep my bum warm, but doesn't feel too bulky over my stomach or anything.  I'll add a link on the left soon with the easy directions to make your own.  It probably took my less than an hour to measure, cut, and sew the skirt.  I'm surprised no one sells these yet!     Back to the run.  Today my training plan said to run 15 minutes easy, 15 minutes hard, then finish with 15 minutes easy.  The first 15 minutes went well, but of course the hilliest part of my run hits in the 15 minutes when I had to run hard.  So somehow I made it through that.  Then the final 15 minutes was much better!  I ran 4.24 miles in 49 minutes, definitely not bad!  I'm slowly improving.  I figure if I just continue running, then I am doing good.

November 28, 2012

posted Dec 2, 2012 4:51 PM by Barbara Wheatley

I got home from school as fast as I could and suited up and took my inhaler.  My lungs have been a little bothersome lately, so I hope I'm not getting sick.  Usually I can tell by my drippy nose and coughing, which I've done more of lately.  Although, my husband has commented that I've been sick a lot less than I was a year ago, so this running has to be helping.  Hopefully my lungs are stronger and I really won't get sick as much as I used to.      My Gillette training plan said to run today by running 3 minutes easy run then 4 minutes a fast run and so forth.  I walked for 3 minutes to warm up then did the 3/4 run.  By the time I got home, it was almost dark.  I have to figure out a way to be safer while running at night.  I already wear bright clothes with reflective strips on them, but I'll need some type of light to help me.  I've seen something cool called "knuckle lights" that might work.

November 24, 2012

posted Nov 25, 2012 3:22 PM by Barbara Wheatley

It was COLD today!  I've been battling a cold/flu type feeling for the last week.  It really makes running hard since it could make things worse.  Luckily, I followed my doctor's advice (I am notorious for waiting too long to do what I am supposed to do) and began taking meds.  He gives me an RX for antibiotics that I am supposed to take as soon as I can tell my sinuses are getting infected.  Luckily, I did begin taking it about 5 days ago, so I have been feeling much better.  I have found that if I don't take cold medicine or RX meds as soon I as I feel I am getting sick, it only gets worse and then affects my lungs.  All the mucus that I feel in my head and nose tends to drop and get in my lungs (or at least feels like it is in the lungs).      Even though I ran while the sun was shining, the air was cold!  I wore a new hat/neck warmer/face mask type garment that seemed to help some.  I haven't figured out how to wear anything over my nose and mouth that doesn't fog up my sunglasses.  If I kept running, the cold air would clear the fogged up glasses.  But, if I walked, even at a fast pace, the glasses stayed fogged up.  Very aggravating.  I do remember seeing an ad for a mask that actually looked more like a device for Armageddon, it claims to work without fogging up glasses.  Of course, it runs about $50-60.  I'll have to see how just these cloth mask pieces work before I decide on that.      I ran about 4 miles today and kept a pace of 11:32, which someone surprised me since it was so cold.  Maybe subconsciously I decided that if I ran fast, I'd get home earlier and out of the cold!  But I felt good running, no aches and pains.  Just had to deal with trying to breathe without my lungs dying from the cold.  I think I really prefer running when it is warmer.  I had on capris, socks, shoes, long sleeve T, jacket, gloves, ear warmers, and the head/face mask.  I was bundled up!  I guess that is how I will be for the next couple of months.  At least I can still run while bundled up!

November 22, 2012--Thanksgiving!

posted Nov 25, 2012 3:05 PM by Barbara Wheatley

We were supposed to run a 5K this morning, but a week or so ago, they sent us an email saying that they didn't get their permit to hold the run so it was canceled.  I was so bummed.  I really wanted to start a new tradition of running a local 5K in the morning, then eating turkey in the evening.  So instead, we watched a little of the parade and the beginning of the dog show, then my husband, one daughter, and I headed out to run.  I walked the first 2/10ths of the run and then ran almost all of the rest for a total of 3.14 miles.  The only place I didn't run was up the steep hill that we have about 1 mile from our house.  I kept an average pace of  an 11 minute mile, so it would have been tough to run the whole way up AND keep running the rest of the way.  I felt good while running, and it was not too cold today.     Happy Thanksgiving!

November 18, 2012

posted Nov 25, 2012 2:50 PM by Barbara Wheatley

Finally, the weekend...when I can run a longer distance in the middle of the day instead of worrying about the sun going down!  Today was a pretty day, so I didn't have to worry about cold weather gear as much.  I planned on running about 7 miles, but only did 6 miles.  When I reached the 3 mile point, I was startled by one of the neighbor's dogs trotting along next to me.  I tried to get him to go home (he is an older dog) but he didn't want to.  I was worried about a car coming along and hitting him, so I turned around and led him back to his home.  He ran up his driveway, but then back down and trotted along after me again!  I told him to go home and ran a little faster.  Luckily he stayed home this time.  Then when I was only about 1 mile from home, another dog barked at me and chased me in the road.  Of course a car was coming, so I worried about that poor thing too.  Luckily, he decided I wasn't worth the effort and he took himself back home without getting hit by a car.  So far, I have been very lucky to not have a dog actually try to hurt me.  Most of the dogs I meet want to bark at me, then just follow me as I run.  Some are pretty good listeners and will go home when I say "Go home!"  Most will calm down when I say something like "It's ok, buddy."  So I've had good experience while running with dogs.      But back to my run, the run was a great run, besides not being long enough.  I averaged around 12 minute miles the whole run and felt good while running.  It was a great day!

November 15, 2012

posted Nov 25, 2012 2:18 PM by Barbara Wheatley

I raced home from school again in hopes of getting in a good run before it gets so dark the cars can't see me.  The hardest thing for me when running in the twilight is being able to see!  I don't wear glasses regularly (I had Lasik in 1998), but I am still bothered with "low light vision" which is worse when it is twilight, nighttime, or the absolute worst--nighttime and raining.  The eye doc says part of the issue is the color of my eyes.  People with blue eyes have more issues with low light vision and sun sensitivity due to the lack of color in the iris (I think I have that straight).  So if a person waves to me (as my students sometimes do) I really can't tell who they are!     But I did get out there and run today.  I ran 3 miles and kept  a little slower pace than I did two days ago.  The first 1/2 mile still tends to tax my lungs more than any part of my run.  I guess I am just warming up.  Once I get past 3/4 to 1 mile, then the running doesn't affect my lungs as much.

November 13, 2012

posted Nov 25, 2012 1:40 PM by Barbara Wheatley

I raced home from work and wanted to fit in a short run before the sun set.  This is getting hard to do, the sun is setting earlier and earlier each evening.  I guess once we hit late December, we'll start going the other way and it'll start getting lighter each day.  I was able to do a 2.46 run, and did pretty well with my pace.  I kept it between 11 and 12 minutes for each mile.  Luckily, i wasn't too cold today, so running was pretty good.  I still am taking my inhaler before running, which helps me breathe as I run.  At least I got out there and got moving!

November 11, 2012

posted Nov 11, 2012 5:54 PM by Barbara Wheatley

Today was a gorgeous day. The sun was shining, the temperature was in the 60s, and there was very little wind.  A perfect day for running. My husband and I drove to a place in our county called Harris Hollow to run.   A friend had recommended using this road to run on since it is pretty flat and goes for quite a ways which means you can log a long run without too many twists and turns.  We suited up in our running clothes and packed some to change into afterwards since we decided to head to the grocery store after our run.  We parked our car in a lot and headed out.     We started out together which was nice, and stuck together for almost a mile.  I continued on and ran 4 miles and then turned around.  I was able to complete an 8 mile run in 1 hour and 38 minutes!  As usual, the first part of the run was more difficult than the second half.  I am not sure if I am just warming up and then once I am warmed up it becomes easier to run or what.  I know that the first half mile my lungs are just trying to warm up.  Once that happens, then it seems to be much easier.  I feel as if I am in a better rhythm and it isn't such a struggle to do each step.  The second 4 miles seemed to go much smoother than the first 4.  I am not sure if there is something psychological about it or not--I know I've made it half way, so my mind is happy and things seem to go better.  But, it is much nicer finishing a run on a happy note instead of a sad or painful note.

November 8, 2012

posted Nov 9, 2012 2:50 PM by Barbara Wheatley

Well, here I am at the hotel, and I decided to run over my lunch break (they give us a very generous lunch break).  I shuffled back after the first set of morning conferences and changed clothes and headed to the workout room in the hotel.  It was a pretty small, but well equipped room with three treadmills, a couple of bikes, weights, and other stuff.  I hopped on a treadmill, took a few minutes to figure out how to work it, and gradually worked up to a running speed.  I brought my Nook and watched the final episode of season 1 of Downton Abbey.  I am hooked on that series.      I am a little leery of treadmills after literally falling off the back side of one once.  When running outside, I will close my eyes at times and just feel the rhythm of the road and my feet, but that is not a good thing to do on a treadmill.  The one I used about a year ago had no safety clip, so when I closed my eyes, as was a habit, I inadvertently slowed down, which meant I kept going backwards until I completely went off the back side--WITH the treadmill still going.  That was an eye-opener (pun intended!).  Luckily, I was not hurt (besides my pride) and no one saw me, so I hopped up and hit pause, and tried again.  I made me very leery of what I do while I'm running on a machine.  Running outside, my biggest challenge is not getting hit by a car.  I don't think I've ever actually fallen while running in my neighborhood.      Back to the treadmill run.  I ran for about 30 minutes, which was all the time I had if I was going to shower before the afternoon sessions.  (I didn't think that the conference attendees would appreciate sitting next to a stinky woman who had just had a run.)  My mileage wasn't as far as I expected for the time and pace that I ran, but Jeff Galloway mentions on his site that treadmills are notorious for tracking the mileage incorrectly.  So, I'm not worried by how far I went, but the fact that I ran for 30 minutes during a very busy day!

November 6, 2012

posted Nov 9, 2012 2:36 PM by Barbara Wheatley     It has been a busy week so far.  I take my GRE one more time tomorrow and leave for a conference right after that.  I've been trying to fit in studying every night and for many hours on the weekend  I've had to basically "teach" myself many of the algebra, geometry, and other math concepts because a) I never learned them, or b) I forgot them!  So in between all of this, I've tried to continue running.  I am hoping that John F. Kennedy was right when he said, "Physical activity is not only one of the most important keys to a healthy body, it is the basis of dynamic and creative intellectual activity."  Hopefully all this running is helping my brain retain knowledge and stay active!
    I squeezed in a little running time between last minute studying, packing, and cleaning up.  I was able to get a 3.13 mile run in and pushed myself a little bit, averaging an 11 minute mile.  Of course, this was the first week after the time change for Daylight Savings, and it really is getting darker much earlier.  I am really going to have to leave work right after the buses two days a week to fit in my runs during the week.  Or I am going to have to get creative about wearing something that makes me more visible at night.  I saw an ad in a running magazine for 'knuckle lights' that you wear on your knuckles and it shines a beam of light in front of you.  I wonder if that would work?
    But, I got out there, I got moving, and I still got my things packed and did a little bit of last minute studying for my test!

October 9-November 4, 2012

 

November 4, 2012

posted Nov 9, 2012 10:15 AM by Barbara Wheatley

This has to have been the worst run I have ever had.  Ever.      It actually started out pretty well.  I had eaten breakfast, and then helped my husband clean several carpeted rooms.  By the time we were done, it was past lunchtime, but I didn't want to delay running any more.  It was still cool out today, and I knew it would be colder as the day went on.  So I drank V-8 fruit juice, some water, and took my inhaler and headed out. The first 3 miles were fabulous!  I was running, no pains, not much huffing or anything.  I decided to do a 3.6 one way and go back for 3.6 home.  But....when I hit the 3 mile mark, I began to feel very hungry.  And I had to go to the bathroom!  All the liquids that I thought would hold me during the run, were just running through me!  (pun intended)  I turned around, but of course at this point in time, I still had 3 miles to make it back home.  I continued on, trying to decide if running was worse on my bladder than walking.  No verdict.  With about 2 miles left until home, I started getting light headed (I do that when I am hungry).  So I just wanted to get home.  Now.  But I had to trudge away.  You may be thinking, why not just call your husband?  Well, we have zero cell phone service where I run, so I never take my phone.  At one point I considered knocking on a door to ask to use their restroom, but I didn't.  Somehow I made it home, and raced to the bathroom.  My husband's comment was, "I guess you really had to go!"  I also ate a scoop of peanut butter and drank more juice (!).  But I made it through this and logged a 6.23 mile run today!

November 2, 2012

posted Nov 9, 2012 10:05 AM by Barbara Wheatley

It is really hard to believe that it is already November.  I began this running adventure in late May, and time has just flown.  Three days ago I read a post on Active that there were free Gillette training plans available, and found a 12-week course for the 1/2 Marathon.  So I signed up!  The runs seem a bit shorter in time than I am already doing, so I am just adapting and making mine longer.  It did add in some cross training on alternate days that I haven't been doing up until now.  So that is giving me a little more in the work out department.     Today was a Friday, so I headed home from school and and got myself ready to run as usual.  I was able to run 3.11 miles and tried to keep a pretty good pace.  It was pretty cold today (about 50 degrees and getting colder), which has been my worst fear about running.  I know cold air can affect my lungs and make breathing difficult, so I have been leery of running in the cold.  My lungs did ok-- I actually did better than I thought.  I had several layers on my top and pants on the bottom.  The worst thing for me was my cold bum!  I couldn't believe how cold it got, in addition to my stomach.  I have noticed the stomach being very cool to the touch before, but never my bum!  So of course, I came home and decided to research this and try to figure out how to keep those two areas from getting so cold.  Lots of reputable running sites and blogs had information about why this happens.  To put it in a nutshell, the blood is all moving to your legs, where the most work is being done, and these areas are not as necessary and therefore get colder.     Next, I decided that I would need to cover my bum even more than underwear and pants cover it.  I looked for skirts that I might find to wear over the pants that would warm me up.  I found a great overseas site that sells skirts for winter activities, but each one ran about $100.  The site is: skhoop skirts  They are really, really cute, and a great idea, but I don't want to spend that much for another piece of running gear.  So, my next plan was to research quick and easy skirt patterns.  I plan on getting some fleece to create a simple skirt to run in.  When I have it done, and if it works, I will post the directions on this site.  Here is to a warm bum!

October 28, 2012--MCM 10K

posted Oct 30, 2012 7:19 PM by Barbara Wheatley

Wow.  The Marine Corp does a great job with their runs.  We came to DC on Saturday and went straight to the Expo to pick up our packets and look around.  We saw many different booths with all kinds of great running clothes, massage treatments, upcoming runs, and other stuff.  Chris ended up waiting in line to get his legs taped by a therapist with KT tape, so I walked around and looked.  I ended up buying two types of carriers to try during running, I still can't quite find one that doesn't bug me too much.  I think I am just a little bit picky!  I also got a subscription to Women's Running magazine and a lot of free things.  The Allergy and Asthma Network had a booth there and I was able to have two breathing tests taken.  One was a new test that measures the nitric oxide you exhale, a new way to measure whether your asthma medicines are working or not.  I measured 11ppb, which she said was great!  Then I took the regular spirometry lung function test (the one where you blow out as hard as you can and keep going).  This test is always hard for me...and I had to redo it here!  But, when my tests were done, they said it looks like my medicines are keeping my asthma in check!  I also believe that my running has helped tremendously too. The next morning, Chris and I got up early (5:40) and had a small breakfast of rolls.  We forgot to bring our breakfast bars, so these were from dinner last night.  We got ourselves dressed and headed out to walk the two blocks to the race starting line.  It was actually invigorating and inspirational to walk along the streets and right next to the Washington monument while it was still dark and mostly deserted.  We made it to the starting line and found our UPS truck that would hold our items and take them to the finish line, the last one of course, out of 10 total.  I thought at first that our running bib number was so high because we were really slow runners, but then later figured out that it was by last name.  (Our trucks were organized by running bib numbers)  Once we got to the truck, we realized that we didn't have our bags that we needed to put our stuff in on the truck.  We weren't the only ones who didn't realize that the bag we got the day before with our shirts was the one we needed today!  Luckily, they brought more bags and we were able to get a new one.  It was pretty chilly, so we waited by the truck as long as we could to keep our extra clothes on.  Many people were running in their jackets and then tied them on their waists, but we didn't want to do that. Once we put our things on the truck, we headed to the end of the start line.  The National Anthem was a wonderful rendition by a quartet (I couldn't hear the announcement telling us who it was).  But they were great.  Made me proud to be an American.  We heard the gun, but it took us 6 minutes to make it to the actually starting line.  It was very crowded--the most crowded race that I have run so far.  Once we got a bit past the start it thinned out a little, but not much.  I almost tripped one person because we were trying to go through the same gap in people at the same time.  I did holler out an apology. The excitement and enthusiasm of the crowd was uplifting!  The Marines were everywhere--at the mile markers cheering us on and yelling out times, at the water stations holding up water and Gatorade cups, and in between!  I noticed many people running with a fallen soldier's picture on their shirt that they were running in memory of.  At one point, I noticed one photo that was about my son-in-law's age (he is a Marine and came home a day ago from his tour in Afghanistan).  I began tearing up, happy that he wasn't one of the casualties and being "memorialized" in the run.  At that point, I decided that if he could spend months in Afghanistan, I could run the entire route.  I have never run the entire distance of 6.2 miles without some walking (1-3 minutes in length).  About midway along the run, there was a fabulous band of women playing the drums...and dancing/moving with the beat.  Put a smile right on my face! I was able to complete the whole run with running!  All 6.2 miles!  The only time I walked was when I got a water/Gatorade.  I learned in an earlier race that you cannot run while trying to drink...it doesn't work!  So, except for that 30 second time period, I ran the entire time.  We passed the Smithsonian castle, and ran along the Mall.  At one point we were on I-395 on the Rochambeau Memorial Bridge.  So very cool and amazing.  I saw an exit for I-66 to Front Royal (the way we go home from DC) and even got a picture of it!  The amount of people running was amazing.  I kept running and running, keeping my pace around 10-11 minutes.  I was afraid that would be too fast, but I was able to keep it going the entire run.  When we reached the last 1/2 mile, we had to run up an exit ramp, the first really big hill on the run.  Then we rounded a curve and I could see the Iwo Jima Memorial and the finish line right before it.  When we funneled to the finish line, I couldn't really speed up much, the number of people made it very difficult.  So I basically just finished and then funneled into a line to receive my medal from a Marine.  Next I funneled into a line for a photo at the Iwo Jima Memorial.  I kept turning around hoping to see Chris, but it was almost impossible.  I took my photo and was headed away when Chris found me!  We were able to get a photo together in front of the memorial and then we were funneled into another line to get our water, Gatorade, and bananas.  We then walked quite a ways to try to find our UPS truck and the exhibits.  The whole time during this run, there was the threat of Hurricane Sandy pouring rain and wind on us, but it held off.  When we finally found the line of 40+ trucks, ours of course was the very last one.  They put the marathon trucks first, then the 10K trucks.  Putting on the jacket and capris felt great. I had a great time at this run, and will definitely do this again.  I finished my first 10K in 1 hour 8 minutes.  Better than my goal of 1 hour 15 minutes!  And Chris was able to finish...the KT tape made it possible for him to finish the whole race, without pain!  This was a great weekend.  Now to plan to  run another race!                        We did it!

October 23, 2012

posted Oct 23, 2012 5:35 PM by Barbara Wheatley   [ updated Oct 24, 2012 4:40 PM ]

This is a tough week...we have Book Fair every day, which means I am standing all day and exhausted by the end of the day.  But I really wanted to run today, so I made sure I told my self that all day long.  Even when my legs and feet were feeling tired from standing.  I got home as soon as I could after closing up the Book Fair, and my husband was already home and getting ready to run.  So I quickly got myself dressed--almost forgetting to take my inhaler!  I recently read an article by Runner's World that said most asthmatic runners will have their attack  in the first 6 minutes of running--and the best thing to do is go ahead and have the attack, take your inhaler, and continue running.  I wonder if that is why the first mile is always hard for me...my breathing never seems to be in a good rhythm, and it just is harder to run.  But, back to the run.  I got outside and decided I would run at least 3-4 miles, not really sure how far I was going to go tonight.  Once again, it was hard for the first 1/2 to 1 mile point, then things seemed to get easier.  My breathing became more rhythmic, and my front of my ankles were doing better.  I did wear my Merrell's tonight since I plan on wearing them in my 10K race this weekend.  I decided to wear them without socks, to see how that felt.  It actually was pretty good.  I made it to the 1.5 mile point (I go out and back, so I was aiming to go half my running distance and then turn around) and decided to keep going.  I passed the 2 mile point and kept going.  When I reached 2.5 miles, I decided to push on.  I finally turned around when I reached 3.1 miles, since this would total a 6.2 mile run tonight.  I walked a few times, for 1-2 minutes between 10-12 minute run intervals.  I made it home with an average pace of 12 minutes per mile, which I was quite happy with.  I finished the 10K distance in 1 hour and 13 minutes plus a little change.  My goal on Sunday for the Marine Corp Marathon (MCM) 10K is 1 hour and 15 minutes, so I should be able to do this!  I am assuming that where I run here at home is quite a bit hillier than the roads in DC will be.  But we will see!  Progress.  I am making progress!

October 21, 2012

posted Oct 23, 2012 5:21 PM by Barbara Wheatley

Wow.  It has been a busy couple of days.  I set up our Book Fair Friday--which meant staying late at work (7 pm!).  Then my husband and I got up at 4:30 am and flew to visit our daughter in MA for Family Weekend.  We got up early Sunday and flew home, stopped at the store to pick up a few prizes for the Book Fair, then stopped at the school to decorate for the Book Fair.  We got home around 4 pm and I was really not feeling like running. But my hubby motivated me and we got out there and moved our tushies!  I ran about 3.41 miles.  My front of my ankles were giving me some problems today.  I'm not sure if it was something I was doing with my stride, or just tired muscles, so I kept my pace slow to not cause any bigger problems.  The weather was absolutely beautiful--about 65-70 degrees and tons of sunshine.  Even though I didn't want to run, I was SO glad that I did run today.  Great job honey getting me motivated.

October 17, 2012

posted Oct 23, 2012 5:08 PM by Barbara Wheatley   [ updated Oct 24, 2012 4:42 PM ]

Today I ran a tiny bit over 4 miles, 4.06 to be exact.  I took my inhaler and prepped myself like I normally do before running.  I pushed myself again on this run, and was able to go a bit faster than I went two days ago, with an average pace of 11:45.  My fastest mile tonight was 10:59--not the fastest I've ever run, but pretty fast for me!  I'm realizing that I'm going to have to figure out how to continue running when the sun sets earlier and the weather gets cooler.  I may have to run with something over my mouth to warm the air that I breathe in.  This October weather is challenging; one day it is 60 degrees, the next it is 80 degrees!  Which means that one day I am running in capris and a long sleeve shirt, then the next day I am running in a tank top and shorts!  Trying to figure out how much or how little clothes to wear is one of the hardest things before a run!

October 15, 2012

posted Oct 23, 2012 4:55 PM by Barbara Wheatley   [ updated Oct 24, 2012 4:43 PM ]

Today I got out and ran as soon as I could when I got home, but it is getting dark earlier and earlier.  What in the world will it be like when we have the time change and "fall back"?  I ran 3.1 miles today and tried to run pretty hard the first mile and the last mile.  I didn't go as fast as I could, but that is ok.  My fastest mile this time was my third mile.  I am still feeling sluggish during the first 1/2 to 1 mile point.  I guess my body is still trying to warm up, my lungs are getting into a pace, and my adrenaline hasn't kicked in yet.  But, I got out and ran!

October 13, 2012 WCDS 5K

posted Oct 13, 2012 8:41 PM by Barbara Wheatley

Today was a fun run.  I just heard about this the other day from a coworker whose husband runs a lot.  I drove to Wakefield Country Day School and dropped off our registrations on Thursday so we would be preregistered.  When we woke up, it was 34 degrees!  Chilly!  We got up early to make a good breakfast of sausage and scrambled eggs.  We leisurely ate breakfast and sipped water then suited up and headed out.  It is really hard to figure out what exactly to wear since I know I will warm up while running and actually sweat.  I wore my capris with another pair of warm ups on top and a long sleeve shirt with a jacket.  When we got to the school, we signed in, but were not given a number or chip or anything.  Well, we did receive our T-shirts for preregistering!  And they are red, my favorite color.  This was definitely a much smaller race than I have ever run (only 4 so far...), but it was fun.  All the runners were transported by school bus to the start line.  It was really cool when Chris pointed something out on the visor at the front of the bus.  It was a picture of our son-in-law with a bumper sticker that said "My son is a Marine."  This was my daughter's mother-in-law's bus!  It just made me smile. The start was in front of a house on Resettlement Road.  The athletic director gave us a few directions and pointers about the markings for the race, then said, "On your mark, get set, go!"  And we were off!  Luckily I remembered to get my watch started with the GPS, and set up in the mode I wanted to use.  I didn't realize until last night that I had many more options than I was using on my watch.  I set it to show the chronograph, distance, and pace.  I hoped it would help me run at a good pace.  I ran pretty fast at first, and ended up having to walk for about 30 seconds going up a hill because I got too winded.  Then I picked up with my running and continued until another hill.  I walked half way up then began running again.  I grabbed a cup of water from the water station, then continued on.  It was chilly, but the sun was out so it helped to keep me warmer.  I was glad I remembered my sunglasses, but I forgot Kleenexes.  Before boarding the bus, I grabbed a napkin out of the car and stuffed it in my jacket pocket.  Of course, when I wanted to use the napkin, it was gone.  So now I am a litterer!  Ack.  I tried not to watch my watch too much, but just to check on my pace or my distance.  The course was fairly flat, with a couple of hills.  The scenery was beautiful.  The final 8 tenths I was behind a young boy.  Every time I got close to passing him, he would run frantically until he couldn't run any more and then stop.  Of course, I would catch up with him again, then he would repeat his running.  This continued all the way to the finish line.  It sure made me chuckle! I made it to the finish line with a time faster than any I have done on a 3.1 mile run.  Even faster than my fastest time this week.  I was very proud of myself!  When we crossed the finish line, the athletic director called out our time, a student handed us an index card, and we went to a table to fill out our name and age. Chris came in a few minutes after me, and we talked to my coworker's husband.  I learned that he started running only 2 years ago, runs every day, and even ran 4 miles that morning before the race.  And here I was worried about tiring my muscles out two days before the race!  And he is older than I am.  He actually has won his age group a couple of times (that I know of--today being one of the times).  He was very inspiring to talk to and gives me hope!  A low-key, but fun race.

October 11, 2012

posted Oct 13, 2012 8:14 PM by Barbara Wheatley

Tonight was a cooler night, so I wore my new capris and a long sleeve shirt with a jacket.  I am still using my inhaler a half hour before running along with Benadryl.  The most annoying thing still is the drippy nose.  But, so long as I have a kleenex, I can handle it. I ran a 4 mile easy run, keeping my pace as steady as I could.  Chris ran with me, so that was nice to have a partner for a while.  We decided when we got home that we definitely needed to get a few more pieces to keep us warm.  That led me on a hunt for a couple of pair of gloves that I know I have somewhere.  I can get so stuck on looking for something that I know I have--I will spend hours trying to find it.  Of course, I never found the two pair of gloves that I know I have.  I think I may have loaned them to one of my daughters, so I emailed them both.  One would be perfect for running since they are Smartwool gloves.  I love Smartwool socks, they keep my toes warm when it is cold.

October 9, 2012

posted Oct 13, 2012 8:01 PM by Barbara Wheatley Today I decided to run while Chris was still coming home from work. He was going to be late, so I went ahead and got ready and headed out.  My goal tonight was to push myself and see how fast I could go.  I also planned on running 3.1 miles to make it the same as running a 5K race.   As I was running, the hardest thing to do was to try to figure out how to pace myself.  I still haven't figured that out.  It seems that I'm thinking about how my foot strikes the ground, how my breathing feels, or if my shoulders or arms are tight or relaxed.  Then add into that trying to pace myself....it is hard!

But, I was so proud of myself!  I ran the first mile in 10:10, then I was much slower in the 2nd mile, but my third mile I ran in 9:42!!  I don't think I have ever run that fast in my life!  Of course, I couldn't keep it up for miles on end, but now I know what I can do.  I couldn't wait for Chris to get home so I could tell him.  He is my biggest supporter in this endeavor. :-)

It was great that my lungs were able to handle this.  Probably because I have tried to slowly increase my miles to give my body a chance to get stronger, including my lungs.  This is good!

September 17-October 6, 2012 posts

 

October 6, 2012

posted Oct 7, 2012 6:39 PM by Barbara Wheatley   [ updated Oct 13, 2012 7:22 PM ]

Today was Saturday, and time for my long run.  We had a yummy breakfast and I sipped water for a few hours while doing a little work.  I suited up and took my meds, thrilled that it wasn't raining or cold.  A cooler front is supposed to be moving in tonight, so luckily it hasn't gotten here yet.  My daughter was home from college for her fall break, so she decided to go with us.  It was sunny while getting ready to run, but when we got out there, it was cloudy.  My husband and daughter were planning on walking while I ran, but we got started all together.  Once I got out on the main road I realized that there was some type of bicycle race/tour going on.  Mile after mile, I passed young men and women, and older men and women pedaling up and down the hills of Slate Mills road.  I said "Hi" to each one and waved, and was surprised how few answered  At first, I thought it was mainly the women and older men that answered, but that didn't hold true for the whole run.  I guess some where just so busy pedaling they didn't have time to answer.  Or maybe they were listening to music--but I was listening to music and I could hear them if they answered.  I guess bicyclists are just like any people, some have manners and some don't.  I just found it so interesting to observe--a great diversion as I was running.  Sometimes I would pass one or just two in a group, other times, it was 4-6 in a group.  While I was running west, I was running towards the bikers, so we were on the same side of the road.  Once I got to the end of the road and turned around, then I was on the opposite as the bikers.  With the bikers behind me, if there was a larger group, the fast spinning of their wheels sounded like a car.  One or two riders was harder to hear, but I still tried to wave and say hi as they passed me.  I was able to run 8 miles today!  Wahoo!  I tried to run slower, but that is really hard to do.  I had to force myself to sometimes slow down.  I've been doing a little more reading on what I need to do to help me train for the Disney Princess Half Marathon, and one was to run at a slower pace but for a longer distance on the weekends.  Between the bikers and my music, I had enough diversions to help pass the time.  I practiced talking as I ran, to make sure that I was running at a pace where I could hold a conversation.  It sprinkled a little bit while I ran, but not much.  It was pretty nice to be able to run without being extremely hot.  Since I have been tracking my miles that I run on active.com, I've run about 196 miles. Which seems like a lot of miles.  I know many people have run a ton more than that, but I am very proud of what I've been able to do.  So far, I haven't had any major injuries, so I am blessed.  My legs were pretty sore--probably from the hills more than anything.  Well, I guess the mileage might have had something to do with it too!  Now, to add in 5 more miles in the next four months.  I should be able to do that.  I really don't want to run the half marathon and be totally exhausted when I finish.  I would like to be still strong and only a little exhausted. I can do it.  i CAN do it.  i can DO it.  i can do IT.  That is the mantra I chant when I am struggling to get up a hill, or finish a running segment. I emphasize the capital lettered words and just repeat it over and over...actually saying it out loud so I hear it too! I can do it.  i CAN do it.  i can DO it.  i can do IT.

October 4, 2012

posted Oct 4, 2012 6:26 PM by Barbara Wheatley   [ updated Oct 13, 2012 7:37 PM ]

Today was another glorious day.  I left work on time!  Yea me!  My hubby telecommuted today, so he was here when I got home.  I wasn't really sure how much I wanted to run tonight, but knew I wanted to go at least for 30 minutes.  I took my inhaler, Benadryl, and suited up.  The sun was still shining, so I wore my sunglasses and it was warm enough that I didn't need a jacket today.  Yesterday I sat at the computer and added a few more songs to my Nano running playlist, so I had a brand new set of tunes to listen to.  I usually rely on my daughters to help me with iTunes, but none of them are home right now, so I did what I always do; got frustrated, then checked the help for directions!  I finally figured it out (yea me!) and now have 50 songs on there.  That is more than I need to have right now so I don't have repeating songs while I run.  The other day on the long run day, I had 33 songs, and it started repeating close to home. So 33 songs equals about 1.5 hours of my running.  Back to today's running.  I got out there and once running, I decided to try for 2 miles, then turn around.  We have several students from my school that live on the road I run on, and today I got to see one family. So sweet...the oldest girl asked me yesterday while we were at school, "When do you usually run?"  I explained that I run every other day, and ran the night before.  She said she missed saying hi to me the other night, and she said, "Thursday?"  I answered yes.  On Thursday, she was out in her front yard working on her homework when I passed.  When I passed the second time, her sisters had joined her and another student who is her neighbor!  Sweet, sweet.  I guess it is a little surprising to see one of your teachers running by in a tank top and shorts every other night.  But I consider them my support group.  A blast of happiness as I pass by.  Chris told me that she asked where I was when he passed them the second time, so they were waiting for me when I came by after him. I felt funny running tonight.  No, not my lungs, just how I sometimes feel.  Some runs I feel as if running isn't natural, my feet feel awkward, my shoulders are hunched and tight...just not as comfortable as other days that I run.  But it didn't keep me from running!  I ran a bit slower, but I did finish my 4.17 miles!  Yea me!

October 2, 2012

posted Oct 4, 2012 6:10 PM by Barbara Wheatley

Boy, it is hard to believe that it is actually October!  I worked today, so I knew I wasn't going to be able to do a really long run.  My goal tonight was to run 3 miles at least.  Luckily I was able to do that.  I still struggle with the first 1/2 mile that I run.  It is like I can't figure out my breathing technique, or my lungs are trying to catch up with my legs.  I seem to breathe much easier once I've made it past that point, unless I push myself too much, then I struggle to breathe from exertion.  So, my lungs are something that I'm still working on.  I am amazed at how much easier it is to breathe at all since running, how few times I've had an asthma attack, and how much better I feel over all -- except for the muscles that get tired!  But that is a good ache. I ran a total of 3.17 miles tonight and was able to keep a little over 12 minute pace per mile.  I keep hoping that one day I will look down at my time and have shaved off more than a few seconds.  My pace seems to fluctuate a lot during the week.  I told Chris the best thing to help motivate me right now would be to have a 5 mile FLAT stretch of road that I could run on and do two to three rounds on.  It would be nice to see how I would run without all the hills and challenges that I have here.  I am hoping that all the hills are helping to strengthen my lungs and legs, and it will be easier when I reach a flat course.  I guess I will see if that is true when I actually run a flat course!

September 30, 2012

posted Oct 4, 2012 5:47 PM by Barbara Wheatley   [ updated Oct 13, 2012 7:40 PM ]

Well, today was a glorious fall day.  I decided to try my hand at the "lost" run course I did one time before.  I suited up, put on my Merrell Pace Gloves, took my meds, and let my husband know my intended route.  He couldn't come, his knee was bothering him.  I started out on pavement, but then hit the long portion of gravel.  The gravel on this road was pretty large, and the Merrells were by far much better than the VFFs for gravel.  But I did find myself watching where I placed my feet every step, so I wouldn't twist my ankle on a larger rock.  I had also forgotten how extremely hilly this route was.  But I was determined to do this run.  I had to walk up a few of the hills--the strain of trying not to misstep and the incline really got to me.  I also brought a new "palm water bottle" that I carried as I ran.  I really am struggling with how to carry my kleenex, chapstick, and other small stuff.  This one has a zippered compartment on the strap that goes around my hand.  It wasn't too bad to carry and run, and the bonus was that I had water to drink as I ran!  I didn't want a repeat of the longer run where I sweated salt and probably dehydrated myself.  Well, back to the run.  I made it back to the house, which was 4.8 miles.  Chris and I had talked about what I should do next since I had several options; stop at the house, or go 1/2 mile more, or continue even farther and then head back home.  I was set on just  going 1/2 mile and turning around.  But I didn't.  I kept running.  I ran to the 1 mile mark past my home and then turned around.  I didn't go straight home, but passed my road and then turned around again.  I reached home after running 7.2 miles.  Pretty darn good!  So I know I can do my MCM 10K (6.2 miles) at the end of this month. At some point, I need to run at least 13.1 miles so I can be confident that I can run the Disney Half Marathon.

September 28, 2012

posted Sep 29, 2012 5:05 PM by Barbara Wheatley

Today the weather threatened to rain all day. As I drove home from work, it did sprinkle some, which worried me a little about running.  I got home with no rain falling at home.  Chris and I got all ready to run, then looked outside.  It was raining a steady rain.  We decided to run anyway, and I changed my long sleeve shirt for a sleeveless shirt and a running rain jacket and my hat.  It was  a different experience running in the rain.  I've run when it was so hot I was sweltering, and cooler weather trying to warm up.  But I haven't run when it has been raining steadily.  A spitting rain, but not a steady rain.  I ran a total of 3.6 miles (I was worried about the possibility of lightning, but luckily it never happened).  I didn't go as fast as the other two days this week, and since I ran yesterday, my legs were reminding me of that fact each step.  Instead I tried to run at a steady pace and was able to run for 12 minute segments and then walked for 2.5 minute lengths.  I kept my music low so I could hear the rain.  As I passed the woods that lined the road, the pitter-patter of the drops falling on the leaves was calming.  Click clack as the raindrops hit the metal barn roof in the neighbor's yard.  Spish-splash of my feet through the many puddles in the road.  By the time I got home, my VFF's were soaked, my watch and Nano were dry under my jacket, my hat was soaked, but my shirt was somewhat dry.  It was really pretty cool to run in the rain.  I didn't really get overly hot, my hat kept my face mostly dry, and the sound of the rain was incredible.  What a fun run!

September 27, 2012

posted Sep 29, 2012 4:21 PM by Barbara Wheatley

Tonight my husband was at the airport picking up our middle daughter who was going to visit for a short weekend.  So I took my inhaler, Benadryl, and suited up.  Since no one else was home, I texted my husband when I was leaving, where I was going, and how long I thought I would run.  I figured that was the best thing to do just in case something happened.  Luckily, nothing did!  I decided to try to push myself again on a faster run versus a longer run.  I ran for 3.25 miles and kept an 11:45 pace.  It wasn't as fast as I had hoped, but oh well.  Chris, my husband, recommended a new strategy since our roads can be so tricky with traffic.  If I run on the inside of a curve, the oncoming traffic can't see me, so I move to the other side of the road.  The same goes for going up a hill--oncoming traffic can't see me, but the traffic behind me can, so I switch sides.  I am very careful to check traffic both ways before switching.  If someone tracked my route, they would see a serpentine track as I wind my way back and forth.  Our neighborhood is full of curves and hills, having one or the other ever 4 to 5 tenths of a mile!  I guess that is all a good thing training wise.  Just once in a while, I would love to run somewhere there are no hills and few curves.  But, this will make me stronger.  My lungs held out again, even though they were definitely pushed outside my comfort zone.  Another good day!

September 25, 2012

posted Sep 29, 2012 4:04 PM by Barbara Wheatley

Today after work, I decided to try to run fast...or at least faster than I usually do.  My husband says I run slow and steady...and I always add, "like the tortoise, slow and steady wins the race."  Which in this case, isn't actually a race, but the feat of finishing a run.  After suiting up and getting all prepped, we headed out.  I pushed myself and after doing a 2 minute walk warmup, I ran faster, which in this case means a faster cadence for 1.5 miles.  Then I walked for 1 minute, then ran again as fast as I could back to home.  I was able to run 11:00 miles tonight, which is pretty darn good! Pushing myself to run faster did push my lungs more than normal.  I am amazed by how much my lungs have improved and gotten stronger over the past several months.  But my lungs did complain a bit on this run--but luckily not enough to stop running or having to quit.  So this type of run is probably good to work on my short term lung use and speed.  It is similar to the speed drills that Jeff Galloway recommends in his training.  So I need to continue working on this too while training.  About 150 days until the Princess Half Marathon!

September 22, 2012

posted Sep 23, 2012 5:08 PM by Barbara Wheatley

Today was a beautiful Saturday!  My husband let me sleep a little late and fixed a yummy bacon and oatmeal breakfast.  We decided to let breakfast settle before we ran, so I spent a couple of hours studying for the GRE.  I already took the GRE once, but I need a higher score in the writing and math sections to make sure I can get into a doctorate program.  It has been a long time since I have done algebra, or written critical papers, or used so many large words!   Math has never ben my forte, so I have to study a bit more to catch up what I must have missed the first time around.  I never realized that square roots are the opposite of exponents.  It makes sense, but I never actually put that all together.  After studying for a while, I suited up, put a few more songs on my new Nano (that isn't broken--yeah!), and took all my meds.  I realized that since I've been running, I have not had one asthma attack.  Not one.  That is fantastic!  My only worry is the upcoming cold weather, since breathing in the cold air is always difficult.  That will be my next challenge to overcome. Today's challenge was to fun farther than I have run before.  And I did!  My husband and I set out from home together (after my GPS watch found a signal).  My husband got the Garmin GPS watch, and his finds the signal a little faster than mine does.  I just need to be patient.  Well, we set out, and I decided to continue with my running at 12 minute intervals.  I walked for 1 or 2 minutes in between the run intervals.  I ran to the end of 231, which is 3.6 miles, then back home.  Before turning down my road, I decided to go farther down Slate Mills for a few tenths, then turn around and head down my road.  I passed the house then turned around to meet my husband at the end of our road.  I felt pretty good for the first 3 miles, then it just seemed harder.  I think part of the issue was that it was warmer than it has been all week, so I wasn't used to the heat.  Another thing might have been that I didn't drink enough water last night and this morning.  I realized this about the 4th mile when my shoulder was twinging weirdly.  Kinda weird that it was my shoulder and not my knees or ankles.  My breathing was great, but my body just felt tired.  I decided to just continue on.  I wasn't in pain, and didn't feel horrible, so I pushed on.  When I got home, I had made it 8 miles!! Woohoo!!  My farthest before that was 7.4 miles on my "lost run" night.  I beat my time for that same distance today--by 20 minutes!  So I have definitely improved my running speed.  I do think I need to hydrate more before running.  After cooling off, I could literally feel the salt that was left on my arms.  At first I thought it was dirt or sand, but my husband felt it and said it was salt.  My daughter's dogs enjoyed licking if off my legs...Weird. So now I have upped the bar.  My next long run needs to be 8 miles or farther.  To think, in 155 days, I will be running 8 + 5.1 miles = 13.1 miles.  That still seems like a much longer distance than 8 miles.  Somehow I will do it.  At least right now, it seems to be a much more plausible idea than it seemed in June.  So, if I continue running a little farther each week, I should be able to do the Disney Princess Half-Marathon!  My biggest challenge ever!

September 19, 2012

posted Sep 19, 2012 6:35 PM by Barbara Wheatley

Today is "hump day"!  I had a little headache, but came home and my new Nano had finally arrived.  Yeah!  The first one had a bad battery, so Apple replaced it for me.  I got a little frustrated trying to register it and get it ready to run.  I am not really an Apple person, but we have a Mac, so things are a little frustrating for me on it.  iTunes kept freezing, and I thought I was closing the program by clicking the little red X, but apparently it doesn't really close the program!  My husband came in and pointed to the word iTunes at the top and told me to close it from there.  But I digress, I finally got my Nano loaded with 10 songs and quickly changed to run.  I forgot to take my Benadryl, but remembered my inhaler at least.  We headed out in the cool autumn air (which is such a change from the past few weeks).  I walked for about three minutes and then ran at a good speed for 1.5 miles and turned around.  I walked once in the middle for about one minute.  So, my total mileage for tonight was 3.1, or 5K.  I didn't beat my best 5K time, but that is ok.  It was definitely cooler tonight, so I wore one of my running jackets, a very bright yellow one so all the cars could see me.  Last night my husband said to me, "My wife is a runner."  Wow.  I guess I am.  Somehow the days of barely making it down the street without stopping (it is only 2/10 of a mile) are gone.  Somehow I went from running 1 minute and walking 10 minutes to running 10 minutes and walking 1 minute.  I don't even know when it happened, but it did.  And I am glad.

September 17, 2012

posted Sep 19, 2012 6:13 PM by Barbara Wheatley My husband and I made plans to run after work today, so we suited up after getting home. I was able to fit in a 4 mile run, which felt pretty good.  I felt a little stiff while running, I'm not sure why.  Sometimes I think too much about how to run (my steps etc) or how I am breathing or other things that I think it messes me up.  But, I did run about 12 minutes at a time and then walked 1 minute.  So that was great.  I realized tonight that I am actually a runner.  Several months before I would not have thought that.  When I could barely run for one minute straight back then, and now I can run a mile or more before stopping to run.  I still find the first half mile the hardest.  I guess my body is still warming up and I haven't gotten into my rhythm.  But once I push past that, I feel a lot better.

August 27-September 15, 2012 posts

 

September 15, 2012

posted Sep 15, 2012 4:32 PM by Barbara Wheatley

I should have run yesterday, but my husband and I were both at different events in two different directions.  Today was an absolutely gorgeous day, so it was the perfect time to run.  I drove a car down to the church while my husband started out at home.  I ran from the church to home, passing my husband on the way.  He was much farther along than I thought he would be, he is really working hard!  I went a little past my road and then turned around and headed back.  My neighbor passed me several times again hauling the hay from one field to another.  Luckily, no cars ran me off the road today.  I still had no music since my replacement Nano is still not here.  I was trying to push myself a little and run for a longer time each time.  I walked 1:30 / R 13 / W 1:30...and continued that almost the whole way.  The only time I went longer was towards the end.  I carried my camera with me, trying to take some shots of the hilly roads that I run on.  I also was trying to see how hard it was to run with a camera and what is the best way to carry it and such.  I want to take a camera with me on the Disney Princess Half Marathon, so I figured I needed to try it out first.  I wore a wrist pouch and kept the camera in there with the strap around my wrist for extra security.  It wasn't too bad.  I've tried a fanny type pack, but those tend to bounce around a lot.  I'm still trying to figure out what works best. Back to the run!  When I finally got back to the church, my husband was there and I handed off the keys and camera.  You gotta love my husband, he is my biggest cheerleader out there.  When I handed him the things, I was planning on walking and cooling down.  He simply said, "If you go to the end of the road, it'll be 6.4 miles."  I nodded and continued running.  I would have stopped there because that is what I planned, but he encouraged me to continue on.  He then drove down and met me there.  6.4 miles.  Wow.  Maybe I really can do the 13.1 Princess Half Marathon!  I know I can do the 4 mile run on Saturday, and I just did a little more than the MCM 10K.  The Half Marathon would be a little more than double today's run.  Could I have repeated everything I did today?  Hmmm.  At least I have 162 more days to make sure I can do it.  I sure am glad I started training early.

September 12, 2012

posted Sep 15, 2012 4:14 PM by Barbara Wheatley   [ updated Sep 15, 2012 4:33 PM ]

After working, then a faculty meeting, I decided to run tonight.  I was able to fit a 4.46 mile run in less than an hour!  Woo hoo!  Actually, I should have been able to go faster than that, but every little run is another workout.  My iPod Nano is having issues, and I've had to send it back (I thought Apple was reliable!)  and I am still waiting on it.  So I ran without music tonight.  I was able of course to hear the cars a little better, but also the birds, bugs, and other critters.  As I was running, I tried to remember how hard it was when I first began a few months ago.  I can remember trying to run for 1 minute without stopping, and not being able to do it.  I can now run for 10, 11, or 12 minutes without stopping!  What a change a few months can make.  I've made slow steady progress by persevering and putting one foot in front of the other.  Literally.  Now I have to be careful to not push myself too fast and too soon. I've been so lucky to not have any major injuries (besides blisters), so I also want to continue this good fortune.  So logging all my runs should help.  I'm keeping a notebook that logs my times, pace, speed, and each mile time so I have a record of what I've done.  If I continue this, I can make sure I don't try to excel too fast or too soon.  We have a 4 mile race next Saturday and then the MCM 10K is the next event after that.

September 10, 2012

posted Sep 10, 2012 7:15 PM by Barbara Wheatley

After working all day, then running to Safeway (this was the last day to use the $10 off coupon I had!) I decided to hit the pavement.  I did all my pre stuff (inhaler--Benadryl--changing clothes) and my husband and I hit the road.  It was a fabulous day for running...even though I had goose bumps while warming up! The temperature was probably around 70 degrees, and of course I thought it was a little chilly! I really like warmer weather...I am such a wimp.  Since it was later, and we still hadn't had dinner, I decided to do a shorter run, trying to keep it to 30 minutes.  I also decided to really push myself and try to run fast and hard each mile.  I really had to work hard the first mile--I need to warm up better so my lungs are more prepared.  But I walked 2 minutes and ran 9 to complete the first mile in 11:02!  I walked another minute then ran the second mile in 10:20!!  I don't think I have ever done a mile that fast.  I know there are people out there who can run 6, 7, 8 minute miles, but to someone who just 3 short months ago couldn't even run one mile straight, this is fabulous!  I can remember when I thought just walking a mile was amazing and tough.  Now I am running 3, 4, and more miles at a time (with some walk breaks of course).  The thought of a 5K (3.1 miles) was daunting and scary.  Now I am registered for a 10K (6.2 miles) and a 1/2 marathon (13.1 miles)!  (now that one still worries and scares me...) But, I have run 7.4 and 7.3 miles so far...so that is farther than half the 1/2 marathon.  So I theoretically should be able to do 13.1 miles.  I have 167 days to work up to 13.1 miles...167 days until the Disney Princess Half-Marathon..167 days until my biggest physical challenge to date!

September 8, 2012

posted Sep 8, 2012 7:19 PM by Barbara Wheatley

I worked on cleaning the pool and trying to get it ready to close for the winter, but knew that I may not finish it today.  It was forecasted that we were going to have huge thunderstorms, so I debated whether to run before it rained or after it rained.  When we checked the weather again and it was delayed another hour or so, I decided to hit the pavement.  I of course, took my inhaler (I'm getting so much better at remember to do this) and my Benadryl, grabbed a kleenex, and suited up.  My nano  is still acting up, so I left hoping it would keep a charge for me.  I wanted to try to run much farther today, since I need to be able to run 13.1 miles in one run since the Disney Princess Half-Marathon is in 169 days.  Somehow I will get there.  Today I was able to go 7.29 miles--I went down Slate Mills to 231, then turned around and ran home.  It was a little sunny when I left, but as I ran the storms came closer. At about the half way point, it started raining, but luckily it didn't last long.  I remembered to bring my hat, so at least I had it when it started raining.  I was able to really push myself and run for little longer lengths--I began by walking 3 minutes / ran 13 / walked 1 / ran 11 / walked 2 / ran 11 / walked 1 / ran 11 / walked 2 / then ran the rest of the way home.  About 1/2 mile from home, my husband was sweet and drove out to make sure I was ok.  I haven't run this far since my "lost run" about a month ago.  I told him I was ok, and he turned around and headed home.  As I ran the final 2/10s down our road, the sky got very dark.  My husband held up a towel and a huge glass of ice water when I stopped, and I drug myself up the driveway as the rain started pouring down.  There is a reason we have been married for 27 years...he is the best! During the run today I had many thoughts running through my brain.  I didn't realize until halfway through that someone had finally cut some of the hay and tall weeds from the road edge--but only on the part farther down the road.  I'm not sure why they didn't do it closer to my home, but maybe they haven't reached there yet?  The grass has gotten so bad that at times I have to swerve to keep from being swatted by the tall weeds.  With no shoulder, the grass just extends into the road.  I also tried hard to work on my breathing.  One of the most frustrating things for me is that my nose runs.  About a mile into my runs, my nose will just constantly drip.  I don't mind sweating, but the nose drip is annoying.  So I attempted to breathed more through my nose, thinking that would help.  Probably not smart.  It seems the more I smell--cut hay, cut grass, manure, fallen fermenting fruit, flowers, car exhaust--the more my nose runs.  I took the Benadryl, but probably not soon enough before running.  Luckily I brought 1 kleenex, but that gets used pretty quickly.  Another reason to try nose breathing is that breathing through my mouth also makes my lips dry.  I used Vaseline before running, but by half way through the run, it is gone. But I didn't come up with a solution. As much as I hate carrying stuff with me, I guess on the longer runs I will have to bring Vaseline or chapstick and more kleenexes.  I did see a bicycler today who was a little older than me.  As he passed me, I said "Hi there" and waved.  Nice to see someone else out there who is active and moving.

September 6, 2012

posted Sep 8, 2012 6:40 PM by Barbara Wheatley

I worked all day and decided to run.  I had taken two days off, so I really needed to get out there and run.  I did my inhaler, took my Benadryl, and suited up.  It was a little muggy today of course, but it is ok.  I'll just be very sweaty and wet when I finish.  Today I was attempting to calibrate my new iPod Nano and Nike pod.  Sometimes I am not very bright when it comes to technology (while other times I am very bright!)  I didn't finish setting it up to calibrate before I ran and at the one mile point I hit "stop" and realized that I didn't set it up.  So then I had to set it up and run another mile to try to calibrate it.  I have been having issues with my nano, so I am a little frustrated.  My husband got one a few weeks before me and he can charge his, turn it off, and then use it most of the day without it dying.  I will charge mine, then try to turn it on a day later and it will be dead.  He called about it and hopes to take it in to an Apple store to have them look at it.  Hopefully it can be fixed, repaired, or whatever.  Of course, this might be why I had issues on this run.  When I finally got home after 3.4 miles, and finished the calibration, it said "calibration error", so it didn't work.  Darn it!  But at least I went out and ran, and was able to run for a longer length, partly because I to run one mile nonstop to calibrate it.  I ran 1 mile / walked 1 minute / ran 1 mile / walked 1 minute / then ran until I got home.  It felt good to get out and run and move.

September 3, 2012

posted Sep 3, 2012 6:55 PM by Barbara Wheatley

I spent today doing different things.  I worked on some things for work, which is somewhat hypocritical considering today was Labor Day.  Unfortunately I was having to fix data in a program that wasn't uploaded correctly (not by me), but of course that could be a whole other blog.  After three hours on the computer, I was ready to get out and get moving.  We decided to run again to the end of our road instead of an out and back loop.  It was threatening to rain again (we've had rain almost every evening for weeks) so it was once again humid.  I was doing pretty well running and trying to keep a good pace, but had a few issues on this run.  At one point, my neighbor was about to pass me in his truck with his trailer pulling hay, and he was doing the right thing by slowing down as he passed me, but another car was coming towards me at the same time.  Instead of slowing down, he basically sped up, and I jumped off the road into the ditch to avoid being hit by his mirror.  I wish drivers would realize that going faster than the posted speed limit is just plain dangerous.  The roads I run on are rural roads, but Slate Mills Road is an unfortunate shortcut between 231 and 522, so tons of people fly down it going 10-15 miles over the limit just trying to get somewhere fast.  We have a multitude of wildlife that crosses the road every day, squirrels, racoons, woodchucks, deer, turkeys, and of course humans.  Drivers should slow down on any country roads.  Now I have realized something, it is up to us, the runners to be aware of the drivers.  With no shoulder on any of the roads, there is no extra room, so moving over is not an option.  Most drivers slow down and move over, but there are those who either are not paying attention, or are just thoughtless and drive FASTER and DON'T move over.  So, as a runner, keep your eyes vigilant.  Keep your music low, or wear only one ear piece.  Always know where the vehicles are so you can be proactive if you need to be.  After that little scare, I continued running/walking at a pretty good pace.  The humidity was once again making my breathing hard, but I kept going, walking when I became breathless to the point of having to quit.  The only other thing that was difficult was when my neighbor went back by me headed home. They drove their truck with the trailer, but were also taking one of their tractors back home.  Around here, the farmers are expert at engines and their tractors are well used.  I was running at a pretty good clip when they passed.  I was ok, until I breathed in the exhaust from the tractor..of course they have no way of knowing this...but it affects me all the same.  Exhaust and cigarette smoke both make me struggle with my breathing while running and I basically have to just stop and walk for a bit.  After a short break, I continued on and was able to make the intersection, then back to the church, and back to the intersection!  Yea!  My husband had already asked our daughter to meet us there in her car, so they were both waiting for me.  But I now know that running two days in a row, both a longer run, can be very tiring on my legs and whole self!  So tomorrow is definitely a rest day.

September 2, 2012

posted Sep 3, 2012 6:17 PM by Barbara Wheatley

We have a nice long weekend still, even though today is Sunday. After church, my husband and I suited up for running.  I've been very good about remembering to take my inhaler and Benadryl before running.  I've also been slathering my lips with Vaseline, but the longer I run, the more it just disappears before I get to the end of the run.  I guess I need to carry some with me, or at least a chapstick.  I've also been carrying a kleenex with me, and definitely needing it while running. My nose is still running as I run (ha ha), but eh Benadryl helps and keeps it from being horrible.  I ran 4.4 miles today, with the chance of rain hovering constantly.  I wore my hat and it helped keep the "spitting" rain off my while I ran.  It of course was a little humid, and that really makes a difference when I run.  It is always so much harder to breathe and continue running for a longer pace when it is humid.  But I was proud of myself and being able to run all the way down to the intersection of 231.  My husband did a shorter out and back run, then picked up the car and picked me up.  That way I didn't have to re-run some of the harder hills that are near the beginning of the run.  He is definitely my motivator and help with this running program!

August 30, 2012

posted Aug 30, 2012 7:16 PM by Barbara Wheatley   [ updated Sep 3, 2012 5:51 PM ]

I left work almost on time...that is one of my goals this year, not to work tons of extra hours.  I was able to start a couple of loads of laundry and swept the kitchen before getting ready to run.  My husband didn't get home as soon as he had hoped, but we still went running.  Our initial idea was to do a long run by parking a car farther down the road so we could run one way towards the car, instead of an out and back type run.  But since he got home late, we decided to do our normal weekday run. I was able to run almost 4 miles.  The big new thing tonight was that I bought a new pair of shoes. After running in Vibram Five Fingers for months, and surviving my "lost" run where I ran for a long time on rocks, I decided I needed to try a pair of shoes that would work on longer runs and rocky roads.  After trying the Brooks Pure Connect that I didn't like (too much arch support and just didn't feel like what I need), I purchased a pair of barefoot Merrell Dash Gloves.  The soles are Vibrams like my VFF, but are a little thicker.  The do not have divided toes, so that is a little different in the feel.  I did purchase Injinji toes socks to wear with them to help with blisters and to give me the feel of the VFF toes.  I actually enjoyed running in these tonight...I was a little worried before I ran about whether they would work or not for me.  They did feel a little different, but not so much that I had to change my stride or style.  I will continue wearing my VFFs on runs along with these for other runs.  So this was a great run tonight!

August 28, 2012

posted Aug 28, 2012 7:04 PM by Barbara Wheatley

My husband wanted to run tonight, so I decided to go with him.  I got home first and suited up, took my meds, and sat down at the computer to get my new Nano ready.  My daughter helped me figure out how to make a running playlist and we chose some fast paced songs to put in the list.  I've read that 180  beats per minute (or as my husband said--3 beats per second)is a good pace for running, but we just sat there and tried to "run" to the beat while sitting at the computer.  I'm sure it looked a little funny as we are bouncing and listening to the songs--but we got about 22 songs on the Nano before my husband was ready to go.  We headed out and I was able to go about 4 miles.  But running two days in a row was definitely harder on my legs, I had to walk more often than I usually do while running tonight.  It was also humid tonight, so just breathing and running was difficult.  My pace wasn't horrible, and my legs weren't killing me, I just felt tired and the humid air was thick to breathe.  But, I was very glad I went out there and ran tonight.

August 27, 2012

posted Aug 28, 2012 6:47 PM by Barbara Wheatley Yesterday was my 48th birthday, so took the day off from running and relaxed and enjoyed myself.  My hubby made me breakfast and took me to dinner.  He also gave me a little iPod Nano to take running since I've been running with a larger iPod.  So nice!  My daughter and I decided to run when I got home from work, so I suited up, took my inhaler and Benadryl, and headed out.  I definitely was slower than I was on my race day, but I was trying to push myself and run harder and faster each time I ran.  I wish we had fewer hills than we do sometimes, because the race was a much flatter course than what I run around my neighborhood.  The hills can sometimes take it all out of me...I try to keep running, of course much slower, as I go up the hills.  But at least I was out there and moving--much more than if I had been on a sofa.  I was able to log 3.3 miles, of course a lot slower than I did before.  But I ran!