12 down 0 to go (Reindeer Run!)

Getting this last one in before the year is over! What a racing year! (Look for a highlights post coming soon!)

My 12th and final race this year was the Reindeer Run on Fort Meade on December 15. The weather was nice and chilly, but I remembering all my past races I didn't wear extra layers! Just my blue t-shirt and running tights. And I was still a bit warm by the end!

Not only was this my last race this year, but insert drummer roll here............. I broke 30 minutes in a 5K! Just by a touch at 29:52, but I am so glad I was able to reach that goal this year!

I ran this race with my BRF (best running friend) and we agreed this 5K was very well done. The packet pick up was inside the field house which was great since it was so cold outside. They had antlers (and bells, but they ran out of those) for all the racers and crayons and coloring books for the kids. It was a very family friendly race. I loved seeing the parent/child running teams all along the course. The course was pretty easy and quite flat which makes for fast times even in the cold. 16:56 was the winning time by a 27 year-old gent. That is quite speedy for 3.1 miles!

Post race food was delicious Panera bagels and cream cheese, along with cookies and candy canes. They those big orange gatorade tanks for water, but tiny little cups. I'm sure it was to avoid spills, but I felt like I stayed next to them for way to long rehydrating after the race. They seemed to be quick putting up the stats which was really great.

Speaking of stats: My time was 29:52.6 for an average pace of about 9:57 per mile. I was 22 out of 43 in my age group and 159 out of 334 overall!

Things I learned from my 12th race:

1. Layers that are easily remover while running are key. Arm warmers may be my new best friends.
2. Being right next to someone at the finish helps my push just a little harder. Thank you to the guy just in front of me in that last 100 feet. I'm not sorry I passed you though. 
3. Races in colder months should have warm drinks at the finish. Tea or hot chocolate would have been AMAZING after cooling down. Next time I should keep a thermos in the car, just in case. 
4. Always carry extra safety pins in case you need to MacGyver your timing chip to your shoe. (ones that tie on your laces are hard to use on shoes with NO LACES)
5. People running near my with their shoes untied makes me terribly nervous. I don't know how it took so long for me to realize this, but twice in this race I tapped people to alert them of their untied shoes and when they didn't seem to mind and kept on trucking I became very nervous for them!

Well that's it! All 12. Next year I am taking on a different 12 X 12 challenge. Look for more about that early next year!

Happy New Year to All!!

Will Run For Flesh! (Zombie Transformations and Turning Humans)

In February of last year, the Dad and I signed up to be Zombies on October 27th at the Saturday RUN FOR YOUR LIVES race in Darlington, MD just north of Baltimore. The Dad was SUPER excited, which is why we signed up so early. I'm glad we did too because the zombie shifts are what sell out first from the race. They had so many people signing up and on the "wait list" they opened a second race day on Sunday. Which unfortunately was canceled by Howard County due to Hurricane Sandy.

One of the perks of being a zombie this year was a free race which we ran with a friend of the Dad in the 11 am wave. (All about my race recap here.) So we all started our zombie transformation with a freezing cold PVC pipe shower to rid ourselves off the thickest layer of mud and gross from the race. Refreshing.

Undead Only

Then it was back over to the Zombie Transformation Center, the ZTC, to change into our zombie costumes and get in line for make up. The Dad and I just pulled old clothes from our closets but our friends came prepared with scrubs. There were zombies dressed as doctors and nurses, prom queens and brides, a farmer, a few nuns, some in fatigues, and even Princess Leia.

We heard about one of the zones before us all dressed as a wedding: bride, groom, bridal party, officiant, and even a baker with a brain cake. So creative! Not only the zombies dress up, we saw some very creative racers as well. A banana, a panda, super heros, guys in tutus, but the best by far was the group of guys dressed as King Arthur and his sidekicks from Monty Python, complete with coconuts and galloping. I'm told they didn't break character through the whole race! I wish I had a camera while zombing.

Stumbler

Standing in line for make up, you can have parts of your zombie outfit shredded and even pick from their zombie wardrobe if you don't have your own zombie attire. After adding holes and shredding shirts and the bottoms of pants, we waited to move on to make-up. They brought in a team of professional make-up artists to help apply all the zombie faces. Some people had plastic wounds attached to their faces and neck, but none of our little group did. There were two separate make-up tracks, the stumblers and the chasers. Chasers, like the Dad, had a base coat and red accents and then blood splatter. Stumblers (this was me) received an airbrush base coat to dull and flatten out the face and then airbrushed contours around the eyes, cheeks, and mouth. Then it was on to spot splatter where they used a thick bristled brush and flicked the bristles towards my face so the make-up would splatter. And like the chasers, the stumblers had blood flecks and wounds added.

Chaser

After our faces were all made up, they hoisted a blue tarp between two trees and zombies lined up to be sprayed with light and dark mud and have handfuls of blood tossed on us. The guy tossing the blood seemed to be having a pretty good time pelting all of us with handfuls of goopy, red syrup. The blood looked really great against those zombies in white, especially the zombie brides.

Bloody and Gross!

I like how it looks like my hand is going to reach out and get you.

Even Zombies need love, right?

Since we were they last group of zombies for the day, and they had a bit of blood left over, before we headed out to our zones they had us stand in a big huddle and flung the remaining blood on the group as you would toss a bucket of water after washing your car. A poor lady in front of us got an eye full and finding a clean sleeve to wipe some away was harder then you might think.

Each zombie received two bottles of water and a bag of snacks for during our 3-3.5 hour shift. We were scheduled from 2:40 to 6, but being the last group we were out there until the last person finished through our section and I have no idea what time that was!

While in our zone, zone 12, our goal was to take as many final flags as we could. There were a few people who had more then one flag (I saw one guy with all 3 still,) but most people had one or none by the time the reached us. Those people in groups would try and protect their friends who still had flags and it was always great when you could grab one of those. Some people didn't want to play by the rules and would roll their flag around the flag belt, a few tied the flag to the belt and there were many who had shirts long enough that they hid all but the tiniest tip of the flag. Add on all the water and mud and those flags were hard to get! There was a lot of karate chopping while people tried to smack zombie hands away from their flags. One guy I tried to take a flag from swung his arms so violently he hit me in the face. I think he made my nose bleed, but with all the fake blood it was hard to tell. (He did apologize though, he didn't mean to hit me.)

By the end of the shift, I had pulled about 20 flags and felt quite accomplished as a zombie.

Cleaning the make-up off without running water wasn't happening. We were able to get the top layer or blood off, but all the flecks and most of the black around my eyes needed more scrubbing then I could do in the fading light and with a wet paper towel and baby wipes. (We looked great heading in to WaWa to grab a drink on our way out of town, haha. The cashier told us he had been busier then usual that evening and he didn't look at us that strangely so I'm sure he had seen a few other zombies before us.)

After stopping to get our free beer (well the guys got beers, not my thing so much,) our plan was to head out to a restaurant for dinner, looking all zombie-fab, but the bus line back to the parking lot was LONG. So the guys got a spot in line and we ladies went to the food vendors to get some hot food. They had a lot of choices and the prices were pretty reasonable. I was so hungry (lunch was a bag of goldfish crackers, I could have planned that better) and the cheeseburger and fries were delicious. I'm sure they weren't as wonderful as I remember, but it was just what I needed!

The bus line moved relatively quickly, they had a great system in place and plenty of buses to keep the line moving. It wasn't long after we finished eating that we got on the bus. Let me tell you sitting down on that bus was amazing. I didn't realize my legs were so tired!

In the days and week after we were all a bit sore, but we had such a great time and we are already thinking up some costumes for next year!

10 down 2 to go (AKA The Obstacle and Zombie Race)

**First, thanks to Kate Reckner for taking photos and then letting me use them!!**

Nice and chilly October morning, the Dad and I drove up to just north of Baltimore to Darlington for a Zombie Infested 5K Obstacle Course run called RUN FOR YOUR LIVES! This was a race unlike any other I have run this year. The obstacles were challenging, but not so tough that I didn't feel I could conquer them. Each racer gets a flag football belt with three red flags, your health, and the zombies aim to take those flags. When you lose all of your flags you are "dead" and can run through the zombie sections without worry. At the finish, there are separate chutes for the living and the dead, though I think it's just to tally hoe many people make it through "alive."

Because we were scheduled to be transformed into zombies in the afternoon we had a few perks like a separate parking lot (can't be infesting those humans to early,) separate gear check and port-a-potties, and we were able to run the course for FREE. Zombie transformation can be found here!

Human Cages!!

So the race starts with everyone one of three long tunnels with a cage like gate at the start: Appetizers, Entree and Dessert. Since we were able to choose which part of the meal we wanted to be and we went with Desserts hoping for tired slow moving zombies (they were all still pretty quick.)

Scary Zombie!

Right out of the gate, you step into a cloud of fog and turn the corner onto a field full of zombies. The first zombie we saw was a woman in a white robe, pajamas, slippers and almost white pupils. Most definitely a frightening way to start a race. I made it through the first section of zombies with all 3 flags. Woohoo! Full life!

Run fast, they want your brains!

The course is run at Camp Ramblewood in Darlington and the entire course is on grass and trails. One thing we didn't realize is how hard it would be to sprint through the zombie areas. I was always catching my breath right before the obstacle after the zombies because I am not a fast runner. Sprinting is not my thing.

Besides the zombies, the other obstacles included jumping over walls (I'd say they were about 4-4.5 feet high, so it was like trying to get out of the swimming pool, without the water,) crawling under and through tunnels of various kinds, shimming under barbed wire, a maze, mud pits (so, so, so gross running after being covered in muddy water,) crossing a river (unexpected and very, very cold,) a smoke filled house with some kind of shocking action that I missed whoops, and the last two obstacles were a huge water slide and a muddy slide under and electric fence. Definitely a lot of things I have never done before, but it was so much fun. After the first mud pit, you stop realizing how dirty you are. I didn't realize how gross we got until I was able to shower back at home.

One of the various tunnel obstacles.

Of all the obstacles, I enjoyed the river crossing the most actually. I like cold swims and minus the gross leaves, mud, and sticks you could feel passing in the current, it wasn't a bad swim. And if helped get a little of the mud off of me. They had a rope tied to each bank to help with crossing and there were two guys in full rescue gear in case anyone needed help. One of them kept running and jumping into the water trying to get others to do the same. I wasn't that daring maybe next time, haha.

The Dad and I ran the race together and I am so glad that we did. Since we weren't being timed (as zombies later our free race didn't include a timing device,) we were able to enjoy the course together and had a really great time. Definitely more fun to do with someone or a group! On the 2nd to last obstacle, the big water slide, the Dad lost his glasses at the bottom in the big pool of water. After we asked the people at the top to wait so we could search for them, he found them in less then 2 minutes. Quite a feat, considering you couldn't see in anything in the water because it was so full of mud. Being able to see, made being a zombie much easier later.

The Dad's friend on the huge water slide.

Just after he slide through. 

No shocks for us!

Neither of us made it through alive, but the Dad made it close! He lost his last flag in one of the last zombie zones. This was just what I wanted since we really were becoming zombies after the race.

I couldn't figure out why the Dad was so clean, but he slide on his back under the fence. 

After finishing, we went to the "showers" to clean off some mud before heading over to the Zombie Transformation Area. The showers were a long piece of PVC pipe with holes ever foot or so with water pumped through. Freezing cold water. The tennis courts and the grass outside of them were really wet, muddy and not a place to really get clean. But, we were able to get the thickest layer of mud off.

Definitely something we will do again! Such a fun race and a GREAT workout!

Since we weren't timed, I don't have any stats for this race, but here are five things I learned:

1. Mud isn't that bad. And playing in it really reminds one of being a kid. I highly suggest it!
2. Running a race without a timed goal makes the race very enjoyable. There is nothing to worry about, nothing to beat. The only goal is to have a great time and enjoy the course and the people around you. Truly awesome.
3. I am not good at jumping over walls. By far the hardest part for me and made much harder when both me and the wall are covered in slippery mud. I made it over all the walls though!! After every wall, I felt a sense of accomplishment in overcoming each one. 
4. Racers of all shapes, sizes and ages run the zombie race. And LOTS of people dress in costume. (Check the zombie post for my favorite costumed group!)
5. I was more nervous about losing a flag at every obstacle, then I was in the zombie areas. I was always checking to make sure I didn't accidentally lose a flag. It would be terrible to lose one outside the zombie area! 

I think we are ready for the zombie apocalypse now! At least we know we will be covered in mud, tired and hungry after less then an hour of being chased by the zombie horde. I hope they don't know how to climb and we can build a tree house to escape. Now I just need to learn how to build a tree house. 

Check the Zombie Transformation Post to see how it is to be part of the undead!

9 down 3 to go (AKA the Underwear Race)

Early last Saturday morning, the 29th, a few hundred of us gathered in Rock Creek Park in DC to run in our undies. It was a bit chill, but there were lots of us sporting our undies over tights, leggings, or other shorts. There were racers in capes, with an underwear covered wagon, and many signs of love and support for those who have battled and are battling with colorectal cancer.

I was hard to miss in those orange tights.

For me, this race felt different then a lot of other races. Maybe it was the location, maybe it was that I didn't have a timed goal going into the race, or maybe it was the purpose of the UNDY 5000 race series. The team that puts the UNDY 5000 together at the Colon Cancer Alliance did an absolutely wonderful job making the race a celebration of a community coming together to conquer something, seemingly, small while working through the trying, testing fight of battling cancer. The energy was one of celebration for those who have battled and won, support and cheers for those who continue to fight, and a joining of community and understanding for those who lost loved ones because of the disease. It really seemed like a small community race, even though there were almost 300 racers. Other racers cheered on those they passed and on the way back up the rather large, daunting hill, that was the last leg of the race someone was stationed at every turn applauding and giving us all a helping hand up the hill. 

Our Race Team!

I ran the race with my youngest sister, the Tumbler (she volunteered at the ZOOMA Annapolis back in June,) and I came to a realization while we were on the second half of the course. While we were running, I realized I really do enjoy racing along side other people I know. Racing with a friend. Pushing each other and having a great time all at once. Now, I think I realized this a while ago (when I started a Saturday morning women's running group last month maybe) that I run better, more efficiently, and enjoy my solo runs more, when I run along side someone else every so often. In a race, I realized on Saturday, I find it more enjoyable to race together with someone at little slower then what I think my pace is and enjoy the journey of the race together instead of blazing off (and probably going a bit to fast at first) and racing solo. As I told my sister, I would rather run with her at her pace then run the whole thing a little faster on my own. So if you have a race and don't want to race alone, I would love to race along side you. And if you are too fast, then I will try and keep up! 

UNDY 5000 Course Map

The Politician and PT raced too!

The UNDY 5000 really was a wonderful race. The weather was great; a bit chill while we were standing around, but it was perfect racing weather for me. I really don't like it when it's too hot. Or hot at all. Running through beautiful Rock Creek Park, the course took us down past a little stream and through a mostly wooded area all on pavement. As I mentioned before, the course went downhill at the beginning, but uphill at the end. Most of the course was seemingly flat with little changes in elevation, but that last hill was a BIG one. It just seemed to keep going and going. Getting to the top of the hill and then turning to see the finish line was a really great accomplishment. Then I saw the clock. I PRed! (Got a personal record.) By about half a minute. That was quite exciting. Running with a buddy really does help!

Both the Politician and PT raced on foot. Though, PT did get carried a bit from time to time. The Tumbler and I walked back to meet the group and joined them back to the finish line and as we grew closer to the finish, the Politician broke into a run, he was wearing his fast shoes after all, and crossed the finish at a sprint. PT crossed with the Dad and that was quite a cute sight!

She loves to hold hands when she runs.

So my stats for this race: I ran in 32:27 for a 10:27 min per mile average. I was 97th out of 293 overall and 25th of 70 in my age group. I was definitely excited about bringing down my 5K time. I'll break 30 minutes one of these days!

PT held this sign for about 3 minutes...

They had a great spread for post race food. Waters were readily available (and were handed out as we crossed the finish,) PopChips (who doesn't like those,) Rice Crispy Treats, Fruit Snacks, bananas and oranges. I think there were some granola bars too and I feel like I'm forgetting something...

Things I learned from race #9:

1. Cheap tights from Target are incredibly comfortable to run in. I had no idea. This was actually one of my most comfortable running outfits. Who knew!
2. Bike riders, who are usually at the park on Saturday's I'm sure, can be quite rude to those racers taking up their bike space. There were times they made me feel like I was going to be run over!
3. Racing with the family and friends always makes for a more enjoyable race for me. I truly enjoy the community aspect of races. 
4. The stories from the survivors and their smiling face of accomplishment at the end of the race were absolutely inspiring. You truly never know what someone has really been though. 
5. Fall weather has always been my favorite, but I didn't realize how wonderful it is to run in!

*Quick note: coming up with 5 things is really getting tough! I didn't think it would get this hard. What did you learn from your last race?*

If you still want to donate, you can do so at the Colon Cancer Alliance by going my participant page and clicking the"Donate to Sarah" button on the right side. I understand this will be open till the end of the year!

We are really looking forward to the next race, Run for Your Lives Zombie 5K obstacle course at the end of October. This is going to be a great time! I'm trying to figure out how to get pictures of this one...

Join me in Support of the Colon Cancer Alliance

This weekend people will be running through Rock Creek Park in DC this weekend in their boxers and underwear in the Colon Cancer Alliance's UNDY 5000.


This weekend's race, the Undy 5000, is a great way to get the word out about colon cancer. In a way that the whole family can be involoved!

If you want to register, or join our team, you need to do so by Thursday at 7 pm by visiting our team page here. Donations are also welcome if you want to support the Colon Cancer Alliance by going my participant page and clicking the"Donate to Sarah" button on the right side.


If you donate by Thursday and post (in the comments here) the costume idea you would like to see (remember this is a family undy race) I will do my best to put that together for me to wear for the race Saturday morning. (Do a quick image search to see what others have donned for the Undy 5000!)

Also, we are going to be running with our two jogging strollers and I will any "Survivor...," "In Honor of," "In Memory of" signs on the strollers for those loved ones who have battled with colon cancer. Just let me know if you have someone to add.

Thanks! And I can't wait to share the photos from this race!


Thank you for your help and support spreading the facts about colon cancer!

For more information about colon cancer and the work of the Colon Cancer Alliance visit www.ccalliance.org

AMR 10 Running Related Questions

The wonderful ladies at Another Mother Runner, Dimity and Sarah, started this 10 question game and I felt urged to join in. They are hoping this goes very viral so I thought I would help them out! You should too! 

1. Best run ever: This is by far the hardest question for me. I don't think I have had that run that is head and shoulders above all my other runs. My best race would have to be the Valentine's 5k in Lewes, DE, also known as the Frostbite 5K. It was the first time I ran the whole distance without stoping. (Maybe because it was so cold and if I slowed down I would freeze.) I felt really great after that run. Like I could accomplish anything because I was crazy and ran in the freezing cold. I think part of it was rounding the corner to the finish and hearing the Politician and the Dad cheering me on. The Politician was so excited! That is something I won't ever forget. 

2. Three words that describe my running: Release. Therapeutic. Empowering.

3. My go-to running outfit is: Vibram Five Fingers, Skirt Sports Gym Girl Ultra in Black Vinyl, and if it's a race day a Ut Prosim/ Montani Semper Liberi Shirt

I still have some if you want one!

4. Quirky habit while running: There are times, I'm sure, that I look like I'm having problems running. For example, when a fantastic song starts up and I begin "boogieing down" or fist pumping the air. I'm sure that looks really great. 

5. Morning, midday, evening: Morning, morning, morning. My day seems to flow so much better when I am up and out before the kids get up. Just a bit of time for me to get the day started. 

6. I won’t run outside when it’s: I haven't found weather yet I won't run in, but I have been lucky. Though thunderstorms with intense wind and rain do not appeal to me, I would be hitting up the bike at the gym on those days.

7. Worst injury—and how I got over it: I'm still working on my left knee/hip strain from before the Pittsburgh Half. I just started some physical therapy for it which is loads of fun let me tell you. I'm sure it hasn't been helped by carrying the Enforcer on my left hip. He's a big guy!

8. I felt most like a badass mother runner when: I finished my first run in the rain. There is something about getting out and doing something that goes against smart logic (sure let's go out in the rain at 6 am, good times,) that just gives me an I can accomplish anything attitude for the day. 

9. Next race is: Undy 5000 in DC to Support the Colon Cancer Alliance. Check out my race schedule here.

10. Potential running goal for 2013: I haven't even thought about 2013 yet! I would like to do another half marathon, maybe the ZOOMA Annapolis. I have been thinking about one of the Disney Half Marathon's too. I would love to dress up for a race like that!


Now it's your turn! Answer the questions yourself on your blog and post a link in the comment's below (and on Dimity's or Sarah's questions, links are above.) Don't have a blog? Feel free to link to your Facebook note, send me an email or even leave your answers in the comments! 

Impossible => I'm Possible

Wow, nothing like a good quote to get you thinking, right? I came across this gem while wasting time on Pinterest (one of the great time sucks of the modern age.) Since reading it, I can't seem to get the phrase out of my mind. I don't think I have used the word "impossible" unless I was telling myself "it's not impossible."

How often do we feel that even the simplest task are impossible? What about the phrase "I can't?" I feel like all too often I hear myself saying "I just.... can't" usually in response to an everyday hiccup when I'm at the end of my rope. Where did this attitude of defeat come from? "It's impossible, I just can't, I will never be able to." It carries over from those daily road bumps into my long term goals, or lack of those goals. I can become defeated before I even begin.

True, there are things I will not do because I know there are limitations because of my skill set and on my time due to responsibilities and previous choices that dictate most of my day to day life. I won't sing on Broadway in my twenties (playing Annie is out,) being an Olympian isn't in my life path, and having a spin 'n span house for more then twenty minutes won't be happening this year. But, I can belt out "Tomorrow" and "It's a Hard Knock Life" to my kids and they might clap, I can push myself to finish a race a few seconds faster and raise my arms high across the line, and I can enjoy a clean home for a few minutes. With a shift in perspective on location/stage/arena, I can feel like I accomplished things I thought to be "impossible."

"Can't" is a bad word in our house. Whenever I hear my kids using it, we try to change the phrase around to "I can ____, but I need some help." Asking for help is a difficult thing, even for kids who may require a lot! But as adults, us moms in particular, there is a barrier where we feel we didn't accomplish the task if we receive assistance. Sometimes it seems easier just to not start in the first place. It can feel so overwhelming and daunting. When you don't start, you can't fail right? But you won't grow, you won't learn, you won't succeed. And the personal joy of succeeding, even after setbacks and course alterations, is a priceless feeling.

There are so many stories about people overcoming situations that seem impossible. So You Think You Can Dance? often has guest dancers with disabilities. AXIS Dance Company, a company comprised of dancers with and without physical disabilities, has been featured on multiple seasons. There was a contestant on The Glee Project this year who is blind with a powerful singing voice and he was able to pick up choreography faster then some of the other contestants. Then there is always the inspirational story of Helen Keller. These people have overcome what others would think of as impossible and achieved.

Recently, I keep coming back to how this pertains to running specifically. In the beginning, it's easy to say I can't run a marathon, 5 miles is impossible for me, or running a mile yeah, no. The hard part is getting up early or heading to the gym when you would rather relax at home. Pushing yourself to be better. Urging your body forward. (Forward is a pace!) Finding motivation when you feel down. My sister-in-law, who recently started running, mentioned in passing that she "can't run more then three miles." And right now, that is probably partially true. Going out and running many miles straight, at a pace that feels faster then walking, isn't the smartest idea when just starting out. Start small, increasing your distance in a smart way (following a training plan is a great idea,) and overtime (ah, patience) you will find yourself in mile 4 and ready to go more. If that's what you want. You have to want it and you have to choose to put in the time or it won't happen, but just because you haven't, doesn't mean you can't. 

If you feel yourself starting the phrase "I can't," finish it with the word "yet." You're right, at this moment you may not be able to complete the task in the manner you hope to eventually. But with time, training, help, patience and sometimes a little bit of imagination it's not impossible.

Not Ready to Race it? Volunteer!

I have thought a lot about where to go from here after this year of races once a month. Maybe another half marathon, but not a full, not yet anyway. Perhaps a triathlon. A swim, bike, run. That's would be a change. And with the pool at the gym could be a great way to stay on top of my exercise over the winter. (I really, really don't like running on the treadmill.)

With this idea of a triathlon in mind I searched the area, like I do for any running race, and discovered the Iron Girl Triathlon in Columbia, MD on August 19th. A women only race definitely appeals to me especially for a first triathlon. Since I wasn't going to race this year, but I was interested in the idea of a triathlon, I signed up to volunteer.

Because I had no idea what to expect and I have never volunteered for a race before I asked the coordinator for a suggestion on where to sign up. She suggested the swim finish/run start water station staffed by Team in Training volunteers. (If you have ever seen groups of people in purple at races it was probably Team in Training. Check them out here.)

They asked we arrive at the venue around 6 as they were starting road closures at 6:30. The drive was easy and the park simple to find. I was not prepared for the vast number of people pulling into the parking lot/field. After venturing of the road, volunteers directed us through patches of trees to the end of lines and lines of vehicles. (I loved seeing all the bike racks. It made me smile so early in the morning.) Families, racers and volunteers were all arriving bright and early on this Sunday morning.

It didn't take long for me to find the water station, have some introductions, and get my first Team in Training purple race crew shirt. The directions were pretty simple, hand out water and gatorade while yelling out to the racers what you had to hand them an/or fill more cups and place them on the table. I had a chance to do it all! It is hard to hand off those little cups. No matter how I held it I always felt like I was ramming the cup into her hand.

The spot we were in had a lot of action as racers passed by on both sides at different times during the race. I was able to see the ladies come out of the water and into the transition area, where the bikes are, and also after they finished the bike ride seem them off on the last leg of the competition, the run. The weather was really great for a race a little cool, but not cold if you were moving around. A few of the spectators had jackets and blankets though. A speaker in the transition area kept us up to the minute on the starting and finishing lines. The winner finished in just under an hour and a half. That's a 0.62 mile swim, 17.5 mile bike and 3.3 mile run. Wow. She was one of three professional triathletes in the race.

Over the speaker, we heard about a gentleman in a suit waiting at the finish line to propose. She said yes! Though we were wondering if she could hear what we were hearing of the speakers because if she could she knew something was coming before she reached the finish.

One thing I noticed was due to the wave start of the race (you can only have so many ladies swimming in that narrow strip at once) the water station doesn't get over run and backed up the way it does in a run only race. With 3-4 people handing out cups we had more then enough hydration for the racers that wanted it.

Me at the nicely filled water/gatorade station, lots of little cups...

I had a great time working with Team in Training. I can see why so many people work with their organization. They were all welcoming, cheerful, supportive of the racers (loud trumpting followed by a chorus of "GO TEAM" every time a Team in Training member passed was quite nice,) enthusiastic and excited to be there. It was  a wonderful atmosphere.

Being a part of the race this year as a volunteer, excites me to sign up for a triathlon next year. The energy of the participants, the supporters and the other volunteers was fantastic. I loved the atmosphere of the race and community feeling and the sense that everyone was invited and if you wanted to take part you could. This is definitely a race I would enjoy participating in.

So if you are on the fence about signing up for a race, any race, try volunteering for one or even just coming out as a spectator and cheering the racers on. It's a great way to give back, even if just a little, and it allows you to test the waters of a race before getting your feet wet. And then maybe you'll be ready to jump in.

7 down 5 to go (AKA The Run of the Scorching Sun)

I was hoping the weekend storms would provide a break in the heat, but instead there were massive power outages and rising temperatures. The sun did not take the day of for the July 4th holiday and Let Freedom Run 5K in Fairfax, VA. Despite the scorching sun, over 1200 racers started their Independence Day celebrations with 3.1 intense calorie burning miles. (Just getting ready for all that cook-out food later!)

This race had me more pumped then any of the others because of the team we had racing together. We all ran/walked/rode at our own pace, but everyone finished! (Well, one of my brothers took a wrong turn before the finish line, but he made it over before we left!) Our team was my parents, my two brothers, my youngest sister, my sister-in-law, my aunt (dad's sister) and uncle, two friends, my husband, my kids and me. Quite the team, Montani Semper Liberi (Mountaineers are Always Free.) We came in 6th out of 13 teams with an average time (of the first four finishers) of 28:44. So thanks to the team I have a sub 30-minute 5K time! Way to go team!

The Team minus the Politician and the Enforcer

For this race, I decided not to take my phone with me on the road which, sadly, means no racing photos. There was only once at the beginning as we charged down a slight hill that I wish I had it to take a snap of the crowd ahead of me. A sea of mostly blue, red, and white flowing a long and taking the first bend in the course. 

The course was a loop around the Fairfax Corner Shopping Center and surrounding areas. The start and finish were on one of the many drags in the center right past all those shops we know and love. (I really do enjoy REI, I should have stopped in for some AC, haha.) 

Before the start we all slathered on the sunscreen and grabbed a last sip of water as we headed to the starting line. My mom and my aunt helped us out by pushing a stroller. The Enforcer was in a newest jogger and PT was in our double jogger/bike trailer. At the start, the Politician had his hand painted (he painted it) American flag shirt on and was ready to race. All three of the kids helped hand/finger paint their American themed shirts for the race. The Enforcer had two firecrackers and PT tried to paint some fireworks. Sadly, I didn't get a good picture of the boys! PT was quite adorable in her halter top tee and red/white/blue tutu. I was also sporting a tutu, though truth be told PT's looked heaps better.

PT and my mom

Somehow I missed the signage for the one-mile mark and even though I wore my hydration belt (so, so, so glad I did too) I was trying to run all the way to the water station, grab a water and walk a bit before hustling off to the finish. The water station was situation just past the half way point and it was such a nice site to see. Even though it was hot outside the water was cooler then my skin and provided a little bit of relief. The heat effects my more then cold weather does and every time I would take a sip I would splash both wrists and my neck with water. Towards the end I was pouring it on my forehead as well, anything for a bit of respite from the heat. 

I got a "go tutu lady" as I pushed it to the finish line. The crowd at the finish was great! People were linking the street on both sides after the last turn. Great energy to feed off of for a strong finish. 

After we finished, the Dad (about eight minutes before me) and I went back to grab a stroller. The Dad nabbed the Enforcer and I swung back around for PT. As I was running back one of the volunteers shouted "Hey, Cinderella, that's the wrong way!"  When I caught up to them before passing mile two again, the Politician was riding along next to PT and both of them looked HOT. PT had a bottle of water and I gave one to the Politician and my aunt and uncle sped off to the finish. 

My stats for this race: I finished the 5K in 33:41 for a pace of 10:51/mile. I was 789th out of 1224 finishers and 69th out of 135 in my age group. 

At the finish they were handing out waters and in the courtyard off to the side Muscle Milk, LaraBars and popsicles were provided for hungry, thirsty, hot racers. The Enforcer chowed down on graham crackers the whole race and was quite content while the older two dripped red, white and blue (mostly blue) stickiness all over their hands, faces and clothes. They were a patriotic image of summer. 

Things I learned from Race Number 7:

1. Bring extra sunscreen because most people will forget. Glad I had some to share! And with a 9 AM start the sun was staring down fiercely by the finish.
2. With only one lane of the four lane road blocked off for racers, there are a lot more opportunity for random spectators to honk and cheer wildly as they drive by. I enjoyed that quite a bit. 
3. Even though I don't really care for bananas after a race, I get upset if they aren't present.
4. I should stop before trying to high five someone going the other way. I completely missed while trying this simple gesture passing my dad as he headed to the last turn before the finish. Failed miserably. 
5. My older two have become very difficult to push in one stroller. Especially up hills.

Before the race I was toying with the idea, but my finish here cemented it. I am committing to a training plan to break 30 minutes for the Undy5000 in September. Lots of speed work and hoping for to cooler weather. Let's go!

"I choose it for me."

I told myself to wait until we went to the beach at the end of the month, but I couldn't wait and started reading Train Like a Mother: How to Get Across Any Finish Line -and Not Lose Your Family, Job, or Sanity by Dimity McDowell and Sarah Bowen Shea(SBS) a few days ago. I love it because the chapters are short enough to finish one before someone needs me and long enough that I feel like I really gained a bit of something. All the added snippets mean I can pick up anywhere after someone (read - PT) takes out my bookmark and find a quick gem of knowledge.

Today I was into the second chapter and I read something that made me put down the book and write this post. I was immediately inspired and reaffirmed about my whole goal. Warmth spread through me as I read Dimity's words and I was amazed how her declaration spoke so clearly to me. "I choose it for me." 


I did it. For me. I made the choice to put me first. That seeming small action has produced such a hugely wonderful change in me and my life. Something so simple. A choice. Not an easy choice, it has taken more work then I thought I had time for. Not a one time choice, every day the same choice presents itself albeit a touch differently sometimes. But a good choice, a smart choice, a healthy choice? Yes. And you would be hard pressed to find a moving mom who speaks to the contrary.

Running has done more for me in these past eight and a half months then I would had thought possible.  In one of my earliest MOPS (Mothers of PreSchoolers) meetings,a mom mentioned that when the kids nap, she only does things for her. Selfish? A little. Greedy? Maybe. Necessary? Most definitely. Of course I tried it, and I still do, but the time that I got the most out of nap-time/me-time was when I started working out on the Wii after PT was born. Somewhere I lost that, but I've found it again in running. Me-time. 

If you are on the fence about me-time, Dimity says it better then I can:

"If it sounds like training is self-centered and narcissistic, it completely is. But if you're like 95 percent of the mothers out there, you deserve-and are in definite need of-some me time. And in case it feels too greedy, consider this argument: If you are the linchpin of your family, you need to be healthy enough to fulfill your duties. You must take care of yourself, because, the sad truth is, nobody else is going to take care of you. Plus, if you're dragging and sad and bitter-which you might be if you're always last on your list-your emotional state will negatively affect your house and family."

For along time, I felt, and often told my husband, I was the bottom of the totem pole all the time. I was of the opinion that my needs and wants didn't mean much and I would find myself stuck in a downhill sprint of feeling down on me while tending to everyone else's needs. Putting in some miles, sweat, pain, and, most valuably, time has made me feel healthier. Not only physically, because I can run MILES (yup, plural) without intense effort, but mentally I am stronger. The relief of only focusing on me has increase my patience though out the day. Which as a mom, is vital and invaluable.

As moms it is easy to feel responsible for everyone and everything all the time. When a chip falls out of place and the tower comes crashing down we can feel completely responsible, regardless of if it is in anyway our fault or of our control. I know I do, often. The feeling that we should always be in control of the situation with our kids, our spouse, the state of the house, the dog, the weather (sometimes we can be a bit unreasonable, no?) can be overwhelming. Getting a good sweat on during some me-time helps me to let go of all of it, if just for a little while. A chance to allow myself to surrender to the idea that I am worth my time. And my time is valuable. But I am worth it. In my surrender, I have found a peace I didn't think possible and is still a struggle to find some days. It is coming easier though. And it's easiest to find after a long, uninterrupted morning run. 

Wanna be a Runner?

When I first considered this whole running idea, I did what, I think, most other people do. I googled it. I googled barefoot running, running clothes (because that is an easily attainable aspect of running; I might not be fast, but I look good doing it, well at least my clothes look good,) an easy running diet (an easy diet...right,) running moms, and I tried to find a running group in the area. In one of my many nap-time searches, I happened upon Another Mother Runner. This is a site produced by two moms, Dimity McDowell and Sarah Bowen Shea(SBS), who have created an amazing virtual environment for moms who hit the pavement. Along with the website, they have penned two books (more on one of them later,) raise their voices on a podcast, and you can follow them both on twitter.

At first, I was intimidated by this group of running women. Sure, none of them knew anything about me and I knew nothing about them. But they were runners and I wasn't. In my mind, I wasn't even close. Dimity and SBS seemed so far ahead of me on the race track that it was overwhelming and I honestly, didn't think I would ever be able to relate. I even downloaded the sample of Run Like a Mother: How to Get Moving -and Not Lose Your Family, Job, or Sanity, but I just felt that I was so different from them. They're fast, I'm slow; they're fit, I'm flabby; they're (insert desired adjective here), I'm the opposite. I wasn't ready to accept that "I can do this, I can be a runner." So I kept the website in the back of my mind to check later if this running thing was something I actually enjoyed doing. 

Fast forward to the ZOOMA Half and 10K a month ago. This 10K was to be my sixth race of the year. Half way through my race a month all year and I finally felt ready. I had finished my first half the month before and I was really beginning to feel like a runner. The Another Mother Runner ladies were giving a talk at packet pick-up that I was ready to hear. I found myself entranced by these to women who, just the idea of them, had intimidated me just months before. As I listened, I felt myself understanding and relating to so many of their stories. I remembering thinking "I can be like them, I am like them." 

Before I left the mini-expo, I picked up a copy of their new book, Train Like a Mother: How to Get Across Any Finish Line -and Not Lose Your Family, Job, or Sanity and they were both so gracious to sign it for me. As I said my name "with an H" like I always do, Dimity added "that's the only way, right?" as she glanced at SBS and we all chuckled. 

The next morning at the race I fell in beside Dimity and Cynthia. (Read all about Cynthia's amazing story here.) They were both running the half, but I ran with them until the 10K turn around. My only goal for the 10K was to run the whole thing. And thanks to Dimity and Cynthia in the beginning I did.

The group of "runners" seemed to be such an elite group before getting out there and setting my feet on the pavement. I know I'm not fast by any stretch, but I can see improvements. When I look back at where I was when I started, I am amazed and proud of my progress. Running has become something I enjoy, I look forward too, and I crave terribly when I miss more then one.

I recently heard a quote: "The difference between a runner and a jogger is a runner has a race number." I may not win any races, I might be towards the back of the pack, and I might even stop to walk (once, twice, ok fine, a handful of times,) but I am a runner. I have joined the group. And when I pin on my next racing bib, I hope to remember to run my own race at my own pace and that will be a big win.

National Running Day Fun!

Last Wednesday was National Running Day and the kiddos and I went out in the morning to do a lap or two at our local park.

The Politician has really started enjoying he "big kid bike" now that he's about an inch taller and he had a blast racing on the flat trails. Any time there was an hill he would get off and push it up or raise his feet in the air over the pedals and run smack into a tree. He really enjoyed himself.

On the paved trail and loving it!

She's ready to go!

PT is a whole different biking story. She is learning how to use the tricycle and amidst the "I can't" and "will you push me?" she has figured out how to go backwards pretty well. She ended up running along side me and the Enforcer instead. She either wanted to hold my hand or hold onto her brother's which did not help me steer the stroller very well.

Beautiful day!

Here's a lovely like poem for you about our NRD adventure:

As a celebration,

(And to kick off summer fun)

my little ones and I,

We all went out for a run.

The oldest he prefers,

Riding fast by on his bike,

And it’s some wheels as well,

For the youngest little tyke.

My little lady, well,

Like mom, enjoys a good run,

We all had quite the day

Lots of racing in the sun!

I was entering for a chance to win a neat pair of compression shorts (with ice pack pockets for post run) and wrote the poem as my entry. I let you know if I win! (Today is the last day to enter. Click here for a chance!)

I love the baby swinging pictures.

Of course since we were at the park, we had to hit up the playground before we left! The Enforcer LOVES the swings. Just like his brother and sister!

He was pushing both of them!

6 down 6 to go (aka ZOOMA Women's Race)

Thanks to the huge storm on Friday, the weather for Saturday's ZOOMA Half Marathon and 10K (I ran the 10K) was amazing! Bright skies, low humidity, temperature between 60 - 70, and even a nice light breeze sometimes. Wonderful racing weather.

I have been looking forward to this race for months and I was not disappointed! The atmosphere at the start was amazing. All the ladies (and a gent here and there) were pumped to be there and the energy in and around the crowd was fantastic. Music was pumping and we all whooped and hollered as the race started right on time! Go ladies!

The top of my head and the crowd behind me at the start!

As good as they were, the picturesque course, the crowd camaraderie and the close-to-perfect weather were not the most amazing part of the race. When the crowd began to thin out a bit, I fell in beside, Dimity of Another Mother Runner fame. (I had met her the day before the packet pickup/ ZOOMA Marketplace (mini expo) where I was able to pick up their book Train Like a Mother: How to Get Across Any Finish Line - and Not Lose Your Family, Job, or Sanity.) She was running the half with a new found friend, Cynthia, who has an amazing story. I was privileged and honored to learn more about her, her family (Marine husband and 3 young boys) and her fight with cancer, thyroid (which has just come back) and cervical. She is an amazingly strong, inspirational woman and I found myself captivated by her words as we ran along the streets of Annapolis. Her infectous attitude was one of determination, refusal to give in and acceptance. Running along and hearing her story, it was impossible to worry about being tired or sore. Her strength and power to fight was in every step and I am proud to say I shared a few steps next to her on the road. Thank you. (She noted that she has a blog and I'll be doing a little searching to find it. Here it is!)

Great Tree Lined Street. Check out that crowd!

Main Street Annapolis.
(You can see Cynthia in the teal
and Dimity in the blue with the white hat.)

View from on top of the Naval Academy Bridge

The course was well laid out and full of views of beautiful Annapolis. Running down the brick main street, up and over the Naval Academy Bridge, with a start/finish at Navy Stadium meant for a few arm-swinging uphill pushes followed by gentle downhill relief. As we continued along, I realized we had run parts of the course during some of our training runs. It was nice to recognize a spot here and there. The race founder and director, Brae Blackley, had told a group of us a day before at the expo that it is difficult to get the Naval Academy bridge closed to traffic. The view is worth it! I'm glad I slowed down a little bit to take it in.

My only critique of the course is that the 10K turn around wasn't marked clearly enough. If you missed the volunteers pointing at the spot between the cones or didn't see other 10kers making the turn, it would be easy to miss. My sister was at the finish and heard a woman who was planning to run the 10K, but finished the 13.1 miles of the half marathon because she missed the turn around. Way to keep pushing sister! You must have been in the zone!

Navy Stadium

My youngest sister, we'll call her the Tumbler, came with me to the race, bright and early on her Saturday, to volunteer. She worked at the Gear Check before the race and she handed out our finishers necklaces at the finish line. (AH, I forgot to get a picture of us...nuts) Speaking of the necklace, I really like it! It's simple, easy, and so lightweight I forget it's on until the Enforcer tries to stick it in his mouth. The back simply says "ZOOMA 2012."I really love the idea of a necklace over a medal for race finishers. Sure a medal is great and it reminds me of my accomplishment when I catch a glimpse of it hanging of my diploma frame, this necklace is something I can proudly wear! (Water and bananas were available after the finish also. The Tumbler helped set that up too!)

The after race party wasn't quite what I expected. I was hoping for some really pumping, grooving music, but I think I came though while the band was on a little break. I also couldn't find the wine stand my first time through. The Muscle Milk area was a nice surprise. They had mats laid out on the ground with cylinder rollers to massage your muscles. On every mat was your very own Muscle Milk work out towel, I might be a little to excited to take mine with me to the gym this week. I went to get my boxed lunch which included a container of chicken salad (or hummus if you so chose,) pita slices, an apple, a pack of carrots and a bottle of water. Quite a nice race perk! My only addition would be a little piece of chocolate, that would have made it perfect. (Luckily, I brought a Dark Chocolate Almond Milk along with me for after the race so I got my chocolate fix!) My lunch and I walked over to there finish line so I could watch while I refueled. I was able to see and cheer on the first half marathon finisher. This made me more excited then I thought it would! I'm glad I finished the 10K before half marathoners crossed the line. That gave me a little extra boost!

Right before the finish line is a bit of a hill, so I stationed myself right at the top to cheer the racers on to the finish. This was almost more fun then the race itself. That little extra push and kick they had when they saw that finish line made me so excited!
 I got a few smiles and a few waves and even a fist pump from a fellow Hokie. (I was able to see Cynthia and Dimity cross the finish around 2:30!) As more racers finished, the crowd around the finish line dwindled to just a few of us. I took this as an opportunity to cheer louder and more enthusiastically. I know when I passed cheerers on the course it always gives me a little extra boost. I hope I gave a little boost to someone too.

When the time got closer to 3:30 (the course closing time,) I decided to check out the rest of the after race expo. Sadly, a few of the booths were closing up and they were all out of wine. One of the aspects I was looking forward to and I missed out! No wine for me. I was planning on getting a massage too, but some how I missed that area.

Ok, some stats:
I ran the 10K in 1:09:23 for a 11:10 minute mile pace. Out of 1,433 10Kers, I came in 806th and out of 219 in my age group, 25-29, I was 145th. After the race, the Tumbler said she wants to run the race next year. I think I can convince her to do the half with me!

I like the little hair wisp I have here.

Things I learned from my first 10K and women's race:

1. I really need to leave a bottle of sunscreen in my car. The second I smelled someone else putting it on I realized I forgot it. Blast. 
2. There is something about a women's race atmosphere that is so much more relaxed. The race felt almost easy, though I pushed myself harder then I did in training runs, but it was like running with a big group of new friends. I'm definitely signing up for next year.
3. Get there early if you want wine. We ladies do love some good wine.
4. LOVED stretching mats being available. Especially, since I missed the massage area. I got a great stretch in while my muscles were still warm. 
5. Cheering on other racers has become a new favorite. After the race this weekend, I've been thinking I should find out if there is a race who wants help organizing cheering groups along the course. (If you are a with race and are interested I would love to talk to you about possibilities!!) Though, I need to come up with a few new lines. "You've got this" and "push it to the finish" seem over used after an hour or so of cheering. 

All in all a really fun, beautiful (the course and the crowd,) and inspirational (thanks Cynthia!) race. I can't wait until next year!

PS. After hitting up the Annapolis Greek Festival for lunch and many desserts (I earned them after a race right??) we decided to go to Six Flags for a few hours. When we got there we heard the new coaster, Apocalypse, is open to season pass holders. At first I was impressed, from how the site was laid out (nice job McCrone!), to the sleek lines of the track and the adjustable heights on the ride seats. But as we started out on the ride, I was quickly reminded why I am not a big fan of standing coasters. My head just seems to bounce around to much for me to enjoy the ride. I'll probably be skipping that one next time.

A mist sprayer at the park
I'm keeping this picture for when I need a pick me up.
You are welcome to use it too! :)