Well, I didn't do the run this morning :( My shin splits are to the point where I need to rest for a week and get better before my real TNT training starts. On that note, I'm going to post a link to my website in case any kind hearted strangers want to donate! Thanks in advance!
http://pages.teamintraining.org/or/portland08/aabernathy
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Friday, May 9, 2008
Busy, busy!
Wow, it's been a few days since I've been on and A LOT has happened. My new job has taken off and I realize it's going to keep me pretty busy. I signed up for Team in Training last night so I'm officially committed to running Porland (and raising some money in the process)! I have my first 5 k tomorrow morning that has me a little nervous (not so much for the race but because my shin splits aren't getting any better, I'm going on a short run today just to see how they are doing). I"m so excited about getinng established here and it's all so exhausting...physically from working out, mentally from learning my new job, and emotionally from being seperated from my husband and step daughter. It's all for the best though and I know it's making me a stronger person, more capable of doing this marathon and being a well rounded person over all. My whole mentality seems a lot more positive and I'm excited each day as opposed to wondering what it's all for. I really feel like we made the right decision and I can't wait till the 17th for my first group run and I can't wait till the 21st to see my husband and get him out here so we can really start our new life! Well, I'm gonna go enjoy the beautiful sunshine and bust out a few miles. I'll post tomorrow after my run! Hope everyone has a fabulous weekend!
Sunday, May 4, 2008
Support
So, I made it to my new coast (or old, depending on which way you look at it) and had my first Oregon run today. It went well, pretty hilly but mostly on the downward so it was great. I am having some shin split issues so I'll be icing tonight.
On a personal note, I want to take a minute to write about my wonderful husband who I miss more than anything. He can't come out here for a few more weeks and it's sad without him :( I know, I sound like a total sap but I did want to express in this blog how important support is and, he is, hands down my biggest supporter. He encourages me when I don't want to run, he reminds me why I do it and he is so proud of me. I love him for who he is and how much he loves me, he really is the greatest husband a girl could ask for. I guess whenever I feel like giving up, knowing how proud I make him makes me take that next step.
On a personal note, I want to take a minute to write about my wonderful husband who I miss more than anything. He can't come out here for a few more weeks and it's sad without him :( I know, I sound like a total sap but I did want to express in this blog how important support is and, he is, hands down my biggest supporter. He encourages me when I don't want to run, he reminds me why I do it and he is so proud of me. I love him for who he is and how much he loves me, he really is the greatest husband a girl could ask for. I guess whenever I feel like giving up, knowing how proud I make him makes me take that next step.
Thursday, May 1, 2008
Why?
As I lay in bed last night, nursing my sore legs, I began to question myself and my motives...why in the world am I doing this? So, I woke up this morning after thinking about that question (and dreaming about it...I had a wonderful running dream where it was a breeze...) and thought I'd blog real quick and put down my reasons why so, whenever I get discouraged or frustrated or thinking I can't do it, I can look back and remember why I'm doing it and hopefully that will push me through the hard times ('cause we all know there will be hard times!)
1. I have wanted to run a marathon since I was in college; I really didn't have time to devote and train for it then and there is no better time than the present.
2. I want to prove to myself that I can do it...I've "started training" for half marathons more times than I can count and always give up, I want to believe in myself and prove that I can do this!
3. The new leg muscles are definitely a plus :)
4. I think this is the most important but I want to do this because I need a "thing". It is so much more than it sounds but, right now, I'm finding myself in a point in my life where I wake up, attend to my step daughter, go to work, come home, spend time w/the husband eat, watch tv and sleep (now, there is nothing wrong with that life, I LOVE my life and my husband and my step daughter and wouldn't trade that for the world). However, there is no real "April time". We all need that time to do something that we love and devote time to being our real self...and spend a little time each day focusing on ourselves. Whether that be meditating, yoga, reading, knitting, fixing your car or whatever, one needs time to really have some inner reflection, those are the times that you define yourself, that you realize what's valuable in life and that make the rest of life meaningful. To me, that time is running, when I run, I can think about the day, wonder what tomorrow is going to be like, contemplate the meaning of it all...you know! Anyway, I need that time.
5. Finally, I just need something active and somewhat competitive. As I've said, I found that post-high school, working out became a challenge because I was no longer doing organized sports. In college, it was easy because I was in Navy ROTC and also lived in San Diego...staying in shape really wasn't an option :) I guess I always considered (well, still do consider) myself an athlete but then, I moved to VA where the in shape population isn't as staggering as San Diego and I found myself busy and realizing the gym wasn't all that fun. That, plus the first year of marriage syndrome brought me to a place - physically in both a vain and health realated way- that I'm not happy with. Basically, I let myself go a little....now, it's time to get myself back!
6. I'm going to look into Team in Training for this marathon...there is an informational meeting in P-town next week that I'm going to attend. Currently, I work in the non-profit sector (today is my last day) and I'm jumping into the corporate world so I'd really like to be able to give back in some way since I won't be doing so at work....no better way than combining two things I love, right? Team in Training will be motivation in and of itself...
So, that's my why...it's more reasons than I originally thought so now, I really have no excuses!
1. I have wanted to run a marathon since I was in college; I really didn't have time to devote and train for it then and there is no better time than the present.
2. I want to prove to myself that I can do it...I've "started training" for half marathons more times than I can count and always give up, I want to believe in myself and prove that I can do this!
3. The new leg muscles are definitely a plus :)
4. I think this is the most important but I want to do this because I need a "thing". It is so much more than it sounds but, right now, I'm finding myself in a point in my life where I wake up, attend to my step daughter, go to work, come home, spend time w/the husband eat, watch tv and sleep (now, there is nothing wrong with that life, I LOVE my life and my husband and my step daughter and wouldn't trade that for the world). However, there is no real "April time". We all need that time to do something that we love and devote time to being our real self...and spend a little time each day focusing on ourselves. Whether that be meditating, yoga, reading, knitting, fixing your car or whatever, one needs time to really have some inner reflection, those are the times that you define yourself, that you realize what's valuable in life and that make the rest of life meaningful. To me, that time is running, when I run, I can think about the day, wonder what tomorrow is going to be like, contemplate the meaning of it all...you know! Anyway, I need that time.
5. Finally, I just need something active and somewhat competitive. As I've said, I found that post-high school, working out became a challenge because I was no longer doing organized sports. In college, it was easy because I was in Navy ROTC and also lived in San Diego...staying in shape really wasn't an option :) I guess I always considered (well, still do consider) myself an athlete but then, I moved to VA where the in shape population isn't as staggering as San Diego and I found myself busy and realizing the gym wasn't all that fun. That, plus the first year of marriage syndrome brought me to a place - physically in both a vain and health realated way- that I'm not happy with. Basically, I let myself go a little....now, it's time to get myself back!
6. I'm going to look into Team in Training for this marathon...there is an informational meeting in P-town next week that I'm going to attend. Currently, I work in the non-profit sector (today is my last day) and I'm jumping into the corporate world so I'd really like to be able to give back in some way since I won't be doing so at work....no better way than combining two things I love, right? Team in Training will be motivation in and of itself...
So, that's my why...it's more reasons than I originally thought so now, I really have no excuses!
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Learning
First, I'd like to say thank you to my first readers...it makes me so excited to know people are actually reading! Today, I think I'm going to talk about learning because, as POM mentioned, this whole journey to marathon is really about learning about myself. And, let me tell you...the past few weeks as I've attempted to begin the journey have already taught me a lot.
Numero uno...I'm an instant gratification kind of gal. I KNOW that building mileage takes time, I've read all of the training plans, books, websites, etc...yet, for some reason, I think that I should be able to go out and run forever and be fine. I mean, after all, two years ago I was running five miles with no problem...what the hell is wrong with me? Now, don't get me wrong, deep down, I know my thought process is ridiculous and I know it's going to take the 5 months to build up to the marathon but I DON'T WANNA WAIT. I'm like my 6 year old step daughter when it comes to patience...
Numero dos...I'm a lazy, lazy girl. Now, you'd think being the 'instant gratification' type of girl I'd be out every day trying to build up my mileage but NO. So, not only do I think I can run forever instantly, I think I can do it by only running 2-3 times a week. Who am I kidding? I know that right now, 3-4 times a week is okay. I also know the importance of rest. The problem is these two arguments win over when it's a run day and I'm tired and I just don't want to go...I claim a "rest" day. SO NOT PRODUCTIVE!!!
Numero tres...when I DO get out there and start putting one foot in front of the other, I generally LOVE it! I feel so good about myself and it's such a good stress relief and I'm just a generally happier person when I do it. Well, that is when I do it and it's a good run. That brings us to today...my first not so good run. I take that back, it was actually an awful run. I get started, bust out the first mile (a little slower than usual, about 9 minutes...but, that's fine 'cause I'm trying to keep a consistent pace throughout), everything is going fine but my legs are KILLING me. See, I have a little problem with my feet and Achilles (have torn tendons in my foot and minorly tore my Achilles in college) being SUPER tight and it was terrible. I kept going until I hit my two mile mark and though that if I stopped and stretched, I'd be okay. Well, I stretched, felt better, started going again and made it about 1/2 mile before...BHAM...instant pain (ha, there's my instant gratification...) so I had to walk the rest. I know it's not that big of a deal, I made it 2 1/2 in decent time, it just sucks this is happening now. I need to get to the doctor and get some insoles and keep my stretching going so I don't get hurt. I don't want to damage myself before I even make it to double digits! Tomorrow I'm going to avoid running and focus on stretch and some easy cardio and I'll do an easy run on Friday to see how it goes.
How do you know you're going to make it? I mean, after days like today, I wonder if my body is even capable of running a marathon...when do I gain that confidence? Probably not till after...
Numero uno...I'm an instant gratification kind of gal. I KNOW that building mileage takes time, I've read all of the training plans, books, websites, etc...yet, for some reason, I think that I should be able to go out and run forever and be fine. I mean, after all, two years ago I was running five miles with no problem...what the hell is wrong with me? Now, don't get me wrong, deep down, I know my thought process is ridiculous and I know it's going to take the 5 months to build up to the marathon but I DON'T WANNA WAIT. I'm like my 6 year old step daughter when it comes to patience...
Numero dos...I'm a lazy, lazy girl. Now, you'd think being the 'instant gratification' type of girl I'd be out every day trying to build up my mileage but NO. So, not only do I think I can run forever instantly, I think I can do it by only running 2-3 times a week. Who am I kidding? I know that right now, 3-4 times a week is okay. I also know the importance of rest. The problem is these two arguments win over when it's a run day and I'm tired and I just don't want to go...I claim a "rest" day. SO NOT PRODUCTIVE!!!
Numero tres...when I DO get out there and start putting one foot in front of the other, I generally LOVE it! I feel so good about myself and it's such a good stress relief and I'm just a generally happier person when I do it. Well, that is when I do it and it's a good run. That brings us to today...my first not so good run. I take that back, it was actually an awful run. I get started, bust out the first mile (a little slower than usual, about 9 minutes...but, that's fine 'cause I'm trying to keep a consistent pace throughout), everything is going fine but my legs are KILLING me. See, I have a little problem with my feet and Achilles (have torn tendons in my foot and minorly tore my Achilles in college) being SUPER tight and it was terrible. I kept going until I hit my two mile mark and though that if I stopped and stretched, I'd be okay. Well, I stretched, felt better, started going again and made it about 1/2 mile before...BHAM...instant pain (ha, there's my instant gratification...) so I had to walk the rest. I know it's not that big of a deal, I made it 2 1/2 in decent time, it just sucks this is happening now. I need to get to the doctor and get some insoles and keep my stretching going so I don't get hurt. I don't want to damage myself before I even make it to double digits! Tomorrow I'm going to avoid running and focus on stretch and some easy cardio and I'll do an easy run on Friday to see how it goes.
How do you know you're going to make it? I mean, after days like today, I wonder if my body is even capable of running a marathon...when do I gain that confidence? Probably not till after...
Friday, April 25, 2008
YAY!
So, I finally overcame my 3-mile slump...the slump being that I couldn't get to the 3 mile mark without stopping. But, despite my legs' desperate attempts to stop me...I made it! Not the best time (avg. 10 min. mile which sucks but it's better than walking!) That brings me to 9 miles and it's already Friday. But, that's okay, 3 today and 3 Sunday = 15 for the week! I might even try to do 4 Sunday and see how it goes...look at me pushing myself!
I am tired though and I know I probably shouldn't go today, I'm still in beginning stages and don't want to hurt myself but I know how to listen to my body. I'm not really in the blogging mood today, I need to get my butt working so I must sign off. Until later...
I am tired though and I know I probably shouldn't go today, I'm still in beginning stages and don't want to hurt myself but I know how to listen to my body. I'm not really in the blogging mood today, I need to get my butt working so I must sign off. Until later...
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Not quite 15...
SO...you all waiting in anticipation and, I've let you down :( I did not get in my 15 last week but I'm not beating myself up, I'm positively approaching this week and am well on my way. I have 6 in so far and am doing another 3 today...that means 3 Friday and 3 Saturday will be 15! Next week, I'm putting on my big girl running shorts and busting out a 5 miler (not till next Wednesday just giving you all a heads up to keep myself accountable!)
On a happy note, my big move begins next weekend. I'm so excited...sad to leave my husband and lil monkey (step-daughter) for 2 1/2 weeks but it's time we start our next big adventure! I get to my new home on the 3rd and have my first run the next Saturday. I'm going to do a lil 5 k on the 10th just to wet my feet in the whole real "runners world". Then, I'll be moving right onto a 10k the following month and a few more throughout the summer to get me ready for the big P-town Marathon in October! WOW...I have SOOOOOOOO far to go to get there and I really need to get myself motivated (especially since my super motivated running partner father thinks I can bust it out with a 7:30 pace...haha, we'll see about that one...my personal goal is an 8:30/9 pace which would make me SUPER happy). Any suggestions of what keeps you on track would be great! That and new song downloads are always appreciated.
On a happy note, my big move begins next weekend. I'm so excited...sad to leave my husband and lil monkey (step-daughter) for 2 1/2 weeks but it's time we start our next big adventure! I get to my new home on the 3rd and have my first run the next Saturday. I'm going to do a lil 5 k on the 10th just to wet my feet in the whole real "runners world". Then, I'll be moving right onto a 10k the following month and a few more throughout the summer to get me ready for the big P-town Marathon in October! WOW...I have SOOOOOOOO far to go to get there and I really need to get myself motivated (especially since my super motivated running partner father thinks I can bust it out with a 7:30 pace...haha, we'll see about that one...my personal goal is an 8:30/9 pace which would make me SUPER happy). Any suggestions of what keeps you on track would be great! That and new song downloads are always appreciated.
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