Thursday - freezing and dark!
Got out of bed and meet everyone at the bottom of the hill of Mt Cootha. Was prepared to suffer today but would still give it my best.
We headed out on a 10min warm up and then Chris told us we were going up to the top -racing. OMG. We ran hard for 3min then recovered for 3min then ran hard for 3min etc.
But get this - for the recovery we were made to walk DOWN the hill. That meant we were covering ground we had already made in the sprinting. So we were going up, down, up, down until we at last got to the Channel 10 Tower.
Following a 20sec rest I had to be at the airport so I raced all the way to the bottom. Man it seemed like a long long time to get there. I dont recall it taking me so long to get up but then again when it was split into 3min segments that makes it all seem different.
Finished the session with a hot shower at home before flying out to Newcastle.
Again - another session with no stretching afterwards so bit grumpy that I am not doing this. Will make an effort over the weekend.
Friday, May 26, 2006
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
Wednesday the new Monday - 10km
I was sure it was a case of Mondayitis this morning. Nothing was going right for me.
Turned up to a run at 5:15 but no-one else showed so I waited (freezing) until the 5:30 runners came. then they were all doing a fast session so took off and left me behind to run on my own aaarrgh. I ran for 5km then my calf ached and I felt crappy and knew today was not going to be a good day. I just took it as it came and didn't worry too much but decided to turn around then after a loop of the gardens.
Headed back to the Regatta and looked at my splits because I was sure I was getting faster and faster. I was too. Here are my splits:
5:03
5:01
4:59
4:57
ha ha ha ha. Oh rest assured it felt like I was flying along. I guess that's what a big weekend of running does to your legs.
After that I had to rush off to a meeting so I didnt get time to stretch. Instead I went to the showers at the Regatta. I was freezing and after standing in the shower realisation dawned on me - no hot water. *groan* I had a quick wash and then went to get dressed.
Skirt and jacket - but no blouse, just an empty coat hanger. I called Tesso who lives nearby but she had gone to work. I HAD to be at this meeting so I just pinned my jacket and went in my bra - looked real sexy too! *embarressment* Not the best look to be meeting a client at 7:30am in their hotel for breakfast......
After the meeting I didn't have time to go home and get dressed (find my blouse) but I did check the boot and found my new Pat Carroll racing singlet. So I threw that on under my jacket - at least I felt better. Though everyone at work is ribbing me about it.
My lunchtime massage appointment came and went with me forgetting AGAIN so I think I have to get back into the routine or I might get booted of the VIP list with Jodi. :)
So working late before heading out for a late night massage. Gotta love the runners lifestyle and priorities heh!
Turned up to a run at 5:15 but no-one else showed so I waited (freezing) until the 5:30 runners came. then they were all doing a fast session so took off and left me behind to run on my own aaarrgh. I ran for 5km then my calf ached and I felt crappy and knew today was not going to be a good day. I just took it as it came and didn't worry too much but decided to turn around then after a loop of the gardens.
Headed back to the Regatta and looked at my splits because I was sure I was getting faster and faster. I was too. Here are my splits:
5:03
5:01
4:59
4:57
ha ha ha ha. Oh rest assured it felt like I was flying along. I guess that's what a big weekend of running does to your legs.
After that I had to rush off to a meeting so I didnt get time to stretch. Instead I went to the showers at the Regatta. I was freezing and after standing in the shower realisation dawned on me - no hot water. *groan* I had a quick wash and then went to get dressed.
Skirt and jacket - but no blouse, just an empty coat hanger. I called Tesso who lives nearby but she had gone to work. I HAD to be at this meeting so I just pinned my jacket and went in my bra - looked real sexy too! *embarressment* Not the best look to be meeting a client at 7:30am in their hotel for breakfast......
After the meeting I didn't have time to go home and get dressed (find my blouse) but I did check the boot and found my new Pat Carroll racing singlet. So I threw that on under my jacket - at least I felt better. Though everyone at work is ribbing me about it.
My lunchtime massage appointment came and went with me forgetting AGAIN so I think I have to get back into the routine or I might get booted of the VIP list with Jodi. :)
So working late before heading out for a late night massage. Gotta love the runners lifestyle and priorities heh!
Monday, May 22, 2006
Wipeout at Warwick
I am just getting my head around that hectic weekend now on Monday night!!
5pm saw me fly out of work into the waiting car and hit the highway for home.
Showered, bags in car and strap in for a 90min flight along the highway to Warwick. Allan, Matt (14yo) and I had decided to do the weekend trip together so we were all running around last minute forgetting/remembering things....
90mins later we were greeted by big roadwork flashing neon sign saying 'Welcome Pentath Runners' which warmed me up to realise we had made it.
Friday night is a blur...we basically had some nibbles to fill the tummy and a few glasses of wine to help us sleep then headed to our little room at Jackie Howe.
Had the creamed rice at the ready for my breakfast and a single caffeine pill (100mg) of no-doz - I can't drink coffee before a race. Ended up taking the pill halfway through the first race so have no idea if it was effective or not. Jury still out on that one.
8am HALF MARATHON 1:39:59
Just scrapped in for a sub 1:40. I really enjoyed this run, along the way got to run with a few different people but mainly because I was doing a run of some substance - which has been lacking from my training of late. I walked through every drink station and flew down the hills. Had C1 on my tail for some time and I knew he could keep with me if he watched his form. His arms (they are longer than his legs) were flying everywhere and I tried to tell him to not swing and relax his shoulders - to conserve some energy. But he had guts and got in front of me when I had no energy to go with him. I got him towards the end but only because I flew down the big hill like a girl and he was too embarressed to copy me :)
11:30am 4.6km CROSS COUNTRY 21:25
Totally dumbfounded by this one. I had it picked as my favourite and personally thought I would do really well. Not to be. I had a stitch (but seemed to have this all weekend so no excuses there) had dust in my mouth the whole way. Walked the drink station - in a 4.6km event!!! And to be honest...I was sad there wasn't another drink station earlier on. I just did not enjoy this one at all. Loved hurdling over everything and gained a few people - but they came back to haunt me towards the finish when I had nothing left to give. Thankfully beat hubby home. Matty pulled in front of me with 20m to go - he's grounded for a month!
3pm 5km ROAD RACE 22:57
A great race to finish the day with. Could be quite a good one and I hope to give it a go next year but this year I just couldn't manage to pull out much of a finish. With 2km to go I had pressure on the bladder and iliketoast was urging me to get faster. I couldn't tell him I was about to wee myself!!!! It was the most uncomfortable sensation in the world and I just could not believe I was experiencing this. When I finished Hubby was there to wipe my tears and I just moped around for a bit. I didn't actually lose control but did have some leakage. However when Julie came over the line - an obese woman who lost 30kilos just so she could do the race - I forgot all about myself and thanked God I was not in her shoes. I admired her courage, committment and determination to get out there and change her life and do it so publicly. Good on you Julie!!!!
DRINKING AND SLEEPING
Had the Race Dinner with presentations and great company. Man for sports people we are hopeless at sports trivia aren't we?? Best thing of the night - seeing Matty get two ribbons for his age group. He was just so excited.
Seeing Tesso being called the Warwick Pentath PR chick was hilarious. That is just what she is and I am glad they have recognised her for it.
What an exciting night seeing all my running buddies get crowned in Gold Silvers and Bronzes. Not to mention winning plastic raincoats (WTF??) and boxes of lollies.
8am 10km KILLARNEY ASCENT 54:57
Got lost on the way following Boonarga!! What a scream.
At the start line I felt quite good in the legs and was mentally prepared for a tough tough run. My gut still groaned and I was severly dehydrated as I had not drank anything due to fear of incontinence LOL!!
Got to the 3km and thought...what a lovely run. Waved to the sheep and sang along to my ipod. 4km I walked the aid station and took on board two cups of water. No point being silly - had to have some fluid.
Just after 5km the hills began. It was an incline all right. Not as steep as I had pictured but steady and my legs were screaming from yesterday. Mentally I got to the 7km mark and didnt think I could do this so I walked for 100m whilst my son and hubby drove alongside screaming at me. I told myself - get to 8km and don't stop. As soon as I got to the 8km mark I felt bloody fantastic. The race started here for me and I could have climbed Everest!
Caught up to Liz whom I had been 10-50m behind the whole way (even walking pace I maintained my distance with everyone). She was tiring and I knew we could do this if we both pushed each other. She had her ipod on too so i yelled at her (not sure if she could hear me) to lasso on and come with me. She did and we ran the last two km together and had a ball taking turns pushing each other. It was the highlight of the weekend for me because I knew I could go faster but had no pressure on me and I was really just enjoying the run, the view and the company. What a feeling!!
Best finish ever was Tesso and Tara holding hands crossing the finish line - backwards!!
12Midday 1500M STROLL 6:16
How embarressingly slow for me. I had hoped to go 6min but just wasn't up to form on the day. Matty flew past me (another month of heavy duty chores for him) and I never got close to him, Allan went past also just before halfway and I decided to not push for it. However at the end he was just in front so I made a dash and when he realised it was me he also made a dash for the finish. Gentleman that he is he knocked me out of the way before stopping and letting me stagger in front across the finish line. I am sure the knocking me sideways was not intentional but I will be watching the video for evidence before I give him his chrissy present this year!
Will have to post more during the week. I am still remembering things that made me emotional - smiles, laughter, tears, anger, pain and friends....lots and lots of friends. So glad to see everyone out there running. It really was the War of the Wounded with us all on our feet again - JenRuns, Miners, Cirque, Tesso, Me, Hannah, Chelle, Matt P (not racing - still a hypochondriac with had a minor ailment *grins*), the Owl, and many other stories of great personal triumph.
Not to mention being good to just see everyone after so long of me not training with them - Tara, Robbie, Liz, Geoff, RentBoy, GPS/Chilli Pants/ILIKETOAST, Ciaran, Shultzy (did he really beat me in the 1500m?????) and all the rest. Too many to name but I challenge you to it.
5pm saw me fly out of work into the waiting car and hit the highway for home.
Showered, bags in car and strap in for a 90min flight along the highway to Warwick. Allan, Matt (14yo) and I had decided to do the weekend trip together so we were all running around last minute forgetting/remembering things....
90mins later we were greeted by big roadwork flashing neon sign saying 'Welcome Pentath Runners' which warmed me up to realise we had made it.
Friday night is a blur...we basically had some nibbles to fill the tummy and a few glasses of wine to help us sleep then headed to our little room at Jackie Howe.
Had the creamed rice at the ready for my breakfast and a single caffeine pill (100mg) of no-doz - I can't drink coffee before a race. Ended up taking the pill halfway through the first race so have no idea if it was effective or not. Jury still out on that one.
8am HALF MARATHON 1:39:59
Just scrapped in for a sub 1:40. I really enjoyed this run, along the way got to run with a few different people but mainly because I was doing a run of some substance - which has been lacking from my training of late. I walked through every drink station and flew down the hills. Had C1 on my tail for some time and I knew he could keep with me if he watched his form. His arms (they are longer than his legs) were flying everywhere and I tried to tell him to not swing and relax his shoulders - to conserve some energy. But he had guts and got in front of me when I had no energy to go with him. I got him towards the end but only because I flew down the big hill like a girl and he was too embarressed to copy me :)
11:30am 4.6km CROSS COUNTRY 21:25
Totally dumbfounded by this one. I had it picked as my favourite and personally thought I would do really well. Not to be. I had a stitch (but seemed to have this all weekend so no excuses there) had dust in my mouth the whole way. Walked the drink station - in a 4.6km event!!! And to be honest...I was sad there wasn't another drink station earlier on. I just did not enjoy this one at all. Loved hurdling over everything and gained a few people - but they came back to haunt me towards the finish when I had nothing left to give. Thankfully beat hubby home. Matty pulled in front of me with 20m to go - he's grounded for a month!
3pm 5km ROAD RACE 22:57
A great race to finish the day with. Could be quite a good one and I hope to give it a go next year but this year I just couldn't manage to pull out much of a finish. With 2km to go I had pressure on the bladder and iliketoast was urging me to get faster. I couldn't tell him I was about to wee myself!!!! It was the most uncomfortable sensation in the world and I just could not believe I was experiencing this. When I finished Hubby was there to wipe my tears and I just moped around for a bit. I didn't actually lose control but did have some leakage. However when Julie came over the line - an obese woman who lost 30kilos just so she could do the race - I forgot all about myself and thanked God I was not in her shoes. I admired her courage, committment and determination to get out there and change her life and do it so publicly. Good on you Julie!!!!
DRINKING AND SLEEPING
Had the Race Dinner with presentations and great company. Man for sports people we are hopeless at sports trivia aren't we?? Best thing of the night - seeing Matty get two ribbons for his age group. He was just so excited.
Seeing Tesso being called the Warwick Pentath PR chick was hilarious. That is just what she is and I am glad they have recognised her for it.
What an exciting night seeing all my running buddies get crowned in Gold Silvers and Bronzes. Not to mention winning plastic raincoats (WTF??) and boxes of lollies.
8am 10km KILLARNEY ASCENT 54:57
Got lost on the way following Boonarga!! What a scream.
At the start line I felt quite good in the legs and was mentally prepared for a tough tough run. My gut still groaned and I was severly dehydrated as I had not drank anything due to fear of incontinence LOL!!
Got to the 3km and thought...what a lovely run. Waved to the sheep and sang along to my ipod. 4km I walked the aid station and took on board two cups of water. No point being silly - had to have some fluid.
Just after 5km the hills began. It was an incline all right. Not as steep as I had pictured but steady and my legs were screaming from yesterday. Mentally I got to the 7km mark and didnt think I could do this so I walked for 100m whilst my son and hubby drove alongside screaming at me. I told myself - get to 8km and don't stop. As soon as I got to the 8km mark I felt bloody fantastic. The race started here for me and I could have climbed Everest!
Caught up to Liz whom I had been 10-50m behind the whole way (even walking pace I maintained my distance with everyone). She was tiring and I knew we could do this if we both pushed each other. She had her ipod on too so i yelled at her (not sure if she could hear me) to lasso on and come with me. She did and we ran the last two km together and had a ball taking turns pushing each other. It was the highlight of the weekend for me because I knew I could go faster but had no pressure on me and I was really just enjoying the run, the view and the company. What a feeling!!
Best finish ever was Tesso and Tara holding hands crossing the finish line - backwards!!
12Midday 1500M STROLL 6:16
How embarressingly slow for me. I had hoped to go 6min but just wasn't up to form on the day. Matty flew past me (another month of heavy duty chores for him) and I never got close to him, Allan went past also just before halfway and I decided to not push for it. However at the end he was just in front so I made a dash and when he realised it was me he also made a dash for the finish. Gentleman that he is he knocked me out of the way before stopping and letting me stagger in front across the finish line. I am sure the knocking me sideways was not intentional but I will be watching the video for evidence before I give him his chrissy present this year!
Will have to post more during the week. I am still remembering things that made me emotional - smiles, laughter, tears, anger, pain and friends....lots and lots of friends. So glad to see everyone out there running. It really was the War of the Wounded with us all on our feet again - JenRuns, Miners, Cirque, Tesso, Me, Hannah, Chelle, Matt P (not racing - still a hypochondriac with had a minor ailment *grins*), the Owl, and many other stories of great personal triumph.
Not to mention being good to just see everyone after so long of me not training with them - Tara, Robbie, Liz, Geoff, RentBoy, GPS/Chilli Pants/ILIKETOAST, Ciaran, Shultzy (did he really beat me in the 1500m?????) and all the rest. Too many to name but I challenge you to it.
Friday, May 19, 2006
Comprehendo!
I get it now...ha ha very funny.
The Dr's passing words to me that I would be in "extreme discomfort" was obviously referring to my inability to be able to run. And yes he is right. For the first time in months (I truly did not realise how painful my hip was I had gotten so used to it being sore) I am pain free and dying to get out on the road...and can't!!!
Not to worry it is enforced tapering for Warwick and I can let loose about 7am tomorrow morning amid the snow and ice.
I am feeling great, legs are great **I luv Cortisone**, ipod all loaded (thanks for the reminder Tesso) and I am good to go. Only thing now is that as I can't classify myself as an 'injured runner' does that mean I have to actually run hard?
Deary me...nerves and butterflies already!!!!
The Dr's passing words to me that I would be in "extreme discomfort" was obviously referring to my inability to be able to run. And yes he is right. For the first time in months (I truly did not realise how painful my hip was I had gotten so used to it being sore) I am pain free and dying to get out on the road...and can't!!!
Not to worry it is enforced tapering for Warwick and I can let loose about 7am tomorrow morning amid the snow and ice.
I am feeling great, legs are great **I luv Cortisone**, ipod all loaded (thanks for the reminder Tesso) and I am good to go. Only thing now is that as I can't classify myself as an 'injured runner' does that mean I have to actually run hard?
Deary me...nerves and butterflies already!!!!
Wednesday, May 17, 2006
LATEST UPDATE
Life is looking on the up......
Went to the Doc and NO surgery is required. Broken hip is only a sliver - barely visable and you wouldn't notice it in a non-runner/exercise person.
Gave me a funny shot of cortisone and was told to go away and be prepared for some immense pain (his words = extreme discomfort) in my hip and glutes over next 48hrs.
In turn I thanked him for his injection and promptly confirmed (after the shot) that is was ok to run on Saturday for the Warwick Pentath (=42.2km). He dropped his jaw and shook his head and muttered under his breath...but then said ok, providing I don't do ANYTHING for two days. (don't you just love enforced rest!!)
However if pain is still there on Tuesday to go straight back. Gee doctors know just what to say to ease your concerns don't they?
I am so ecstatic that all my pain will be gone and I can concentrate on running again without thinking 'WTF' everytime I get a twinge.
See you all out there on the road
BTW over the next two days please don't post your 'Run of the Year stories'...I don't think I could bare it to hear you enjoy a brilliant run whilst I was in bum agony. *grins*
Went to the Doc and NO surgery is required. Broken hip is only a sliver - barely visable and you wouldn't notice it in a non-runner/exercise person.
Gave me a funny shot of cortisone and was told to go away and be prepared for some immense pain (his words = extreme discomfort) in my hip and glutes over next 48hrs.
In turn I thanked him for his injection and promptly confirmed (after the shot) that is was ok to run on Saturday for the Warwick Pentath (=42.2km). He dropped his jaw and shook his head and muttered under his breath...but then said ok, providing I don't do ANYTHING for two days. (don't you just love enforced rest!!)
However if pain is still there on Tuesday to go straight back. Gee doctors know just what to say to ease your concerns don't they?
I am so ecstatic that all my pain will be gone and I can concentrate on running again without thinking 'WTF' everytime I get a twinge.
See you all out there on the road
BTW over the next two days please don't post your 'Run of the Year stories'...I don't think I could bare it to hear you enjoy a brilliant run whilst I was in bum agony. *grins*
Tuesday, May 16, 2006
and then it was three....
So it happened. Monday afternoon my grandma had a heart attack. Before you all start being sad...dont' worry. She is doing well and strong as an ox, demanding to be let out of hospital so the priest doesn't have to see her in her pj's - bless her soul. Anyhow she has to finish knitting my winter woolly sox!! I get a pair every year!
Distance: 10km
Time: 1hr
Pace: 15mins of speed after warm up, followed by cooldown.
Location: Botannical Gardens - Pat Carroll Session
BIg group again this morning. Was good to see everyone but missing tessos face still.
15mins of speed interspersed with jog recovery every 60sec. A tough session but I think I felt it was tougher than others. Not too keen on this speed stuff at the moment. Much preferring the longer slower runs. My shoulders are aching and no doubt this is stress as well so the runs are welcome if that makes sense?
Really looking forward to getting away to Warwick with the family well half of us anyhow.
My son Sam's birthday tomorrow. He will be twelve. I love him immensely. Here he is twirling his grand ole mum around the dancefloor in Canberra.
Distance: 10km
Time: 1hr
Pace: 15mins of speed after warm up, followed by cooldown.
Location: Botannical Gardens - Pat Carroll Session
BIg group again this morning. Was good to see everyone but missing tessos face still.
15mins of speed interspersed with jog recovery every 60sec. A tough session but I think I felt it was tougher than others. Not too keen on this speed stuff at the moment. Much preferring the longer slower runs. My shoulders are aching and no doubt this is stress as well so the runs are welcome if that makes sense?
Really looking forward to getting away to Warwick with the family well half of us anyhow.
My son Sam's birthday tomorrow. He will be twelve. I love him immensely. Here he is twirling his grand ole mum around the dancefloor in Canberra.
Monday, May 15, 2006
It happens in threes.....
My life is a typical Monday morning mess. It CAN only get better.
I started at 5:30am on a run from the gym to warm up. As I was crossing the road I saw a motorbike go down and I ran across the traffic and followed the bike (was skidding for 150m) but when I got there the rider was not on it.
He had been pushed into the concrete wall and shortly after died. It was terrible. The cops and coroners were taking care of everything so I left.
I just ran thinking of my husband on his motorbike on his way to work. Don't remember much except that whatever pain I was in - I was glad to be alive.
When I got to work my best employee advised me had filed for Bankruptcy and would be leaving us to go and live in WA (to live with family members). It is a big hole for us and he will be hard to replace. The timing is awful and he is extremely embarressed by the situation as well.
So now I am just waiting for the third thing to happen.....I think I might cancel my Dr. appt for this afternoon.
I started at 5:30am on a run from the gym to warm up. As I was crossing the road I saw a motorbike go down and I ran across the traffic and followed the bike (was skidding for 150m) but when I got there the rider was not on it.
He had been pushed into the concrete wall and shortly after died. It was terrible. The cops and coroners were taking care of everything so I left.
I just ran thinking of my husband on his motorbike on his way to work. Don't remember much except that whatever pain I was in - I was glad to be alive.
When I got to work my best employee advised me had filed for Bankruptcy and would be leaving us to go and live in WA (to live with family members). It is a big hole for us and he will be hard to replace. The timing is awful and he is extremely embarressed by the situation as well.
So now I am just waiting for the third thing to happen.....I think I might cancel my Dr. appt for this afternoon.
Saturday, May 13, 2006
Saturday Long Run
Distance: 16km
Time: 1hr 17mins
Pace: Steady with increasingly faster finish over last 4km.
Location: Regatta
Same run as Wednesday (confirmed it is only 16km...bummer) but different company. Run felt uncomfortable the whole way. Just never got into it. I didn't tire during it but we stopped for water twice which may have helped. The faster finish brought the time down otherwise I would have been way slower than Wednesdays....go figure.
Last 4km was : 4:45, 4:42, 4:37, 4:23. Mark was trying to get me to do 4min finish but there was no way I had anything like that in me.
In fact tonight I am feeling really unwell so maybe that is the key? or possibly just another excuse to cover the fact that I am a lazy bum with little training under the belt.
I have immense cramps and a headache and am putting them down to the round of pummelling and xrays I had on the hip late yesterday.
Time: 1hr 17mins
Pace: Steady with increasingly faster finish over last 4km.
Location: Regatta
Same run as Wednesday (confirmed it is only 16km...bummer) but different company. Run felt uncomfortable the whole way. Just never got into it. I didn't tire during it but we stopped for water twice which may have helped. The faster finish brought the time down otherwise I would have been way slower than Wednesdays....go figure.
Last 4km was : 4:45, 4:42, 4:37, 4:23. Mark was trying to get me to do 4min finish but there was no way I had anything like that in me.
In fact tonight I am feeling really unwell so maybe that is the key? or possibly just another excuse to cover the fact that I am a lazy bum with little training under the belt.
I have immense cramps and a headache and am putting them down to the round of pummelling and xrays I had on the hip late yesterday.
Where is Michael?
With only 7 weeks to go until Gold Coast I am eagerly awaiting an email from our friend Michael to confirm if he is running in this years Gold Coast Marathon.
Michael went back to Japan to live after being in Brissy running with us all for two years. Will be good to see him again. But of course only if he hasn't gotten faster than me!!!!! LOL
Thursday, May 11, 2006
Thursday Run
Distance: Ran for 40mins then did 1km.
Time: 44mins
Pace: Gentle, steady then really hard then gentle.
Location: Pat Carrolls
From Ship Inn ran over to floating bridge chatting the whole way to Tesso and turned around at the end of that. Got back to the gardens and stretched a bit. Then we had a no watch 1km run. I tried to go 4min/km but was pushed by all the guys around me. Finished in 3:48 was really happy I could do that but all the way I kept thinking "4min/km should not hurt like this, I have been away for too long" so I was also happy to see it was faster than that.
Time: 44mins
Pace: Gentle, steady then really hard then gentle.
Location: Pat Carrolls
From Ship Inn ran over to floating bridge chatting the whole way to Tesso and turned around at the end of that. Got back to the gardens and stretched a bit. Then we had a no watch 1km run. I tried to go 4min/km but was pushed by all the guys around me. Finished in 3:48 was really happy I could do that but all the way I kept thinking "4min/km should not hurt like this, I have been away for too long" so I was also happy to see it was faster than that.
Wednesday, May 10, 2006
Wednesday Run
Distance: 17km
Time: 1hr 20mins
Pace: Steady
Location: Regatta, over Story Bridge, along cliffs and southbank back to Regatta.
Exertion: Didn't plan on doing this today!! Was chatting to some other runners and before you knew it I was on the bridge. They laughed when I wanted them to come and pick me up in the car......so I just ran home with them.
Totally wiped out. Felt more exhausting and tiring than a marathon. One word to sum up: BUGGERED.
Time: 1hr 20mins
Pace: Steady
Location: Regatta, over Story Bridge, along cliffs and southbank back to Regatta.
Exertion: Didn't plan on doing this today!! Was chatting to some other runners and before you knew it I was on the bridge. They laughed when I wanted them to come and pick me up in the car......so I just ran home with them.
Totally wiped out. Felt more exhausting and tiring than a marathon. One word to sum up: BUGGERED.
Tuesday, May 09, 2006
Tuesdays Run
Distance: 9km
Time: 12:30 (3km time trial)
Pace: Steady
Location: Pat Carroll Speed Session.
Exertion: Okay this hurt!!
3km Time Trial after a warm up and then followed by cool down.
Was great to be back with a group but how painful to be so slow! I was suprised to run as fast as I did though. Certainly wouldn't have thought 4:10 min/km pace was achievable. Shoelace came undone with 800m to go but I wasn't going fast enough for it to worry me. It just demonstrates I have forgotten all my rules of running already (ie double knots).
I'm guessing tonight I'll be asleep before 8pm.......
Time: 12:30 (3km time trial)
Pace: Steady
Location: Pat Carroll Speed Session.
Exertion: Okay this hurt!!
3km Time Trial after a warm up and then followed by cool down.
Was great to be back with a group but how painful to be so slow! I was suprised to run as fast as I did though. Certainly wouldn't have thought 4:10 min/km pace was achievable. Shoelace came undone with 800m to go but I wasn't going fast enough for it to worry me. It just demonstrates I have forgotten all my rules of running already (ie double knots).
I'm guessing tonight I'll be asleep before 8pm.......
Monday, May 08, 2006
Mondays Run
Distance: 5km
Time: 24:30
Pace: slowish
Location: on my own from Gym to Regatta and back at 5am.
Exertion: Learning to run again after so much time off!!
Followed this up with 60mins at the gym. My body is sore and tired this afternoon but I feel good that I have made the decision to get moving again.
With Warwick only 10 days away I am fairly confident I will be walking alongside Tesso but at least I will compete and be able to catch up with everyone again :)
Time: 24:30
Pace: slowish
Location: on my own from Gym to Regatta and back at 5am.
Exertion: Learning to run again after so much time off!!
Followed this up with 60mins at the gym. My body is sore and tired this afternoon but I feel good that I have made the decision to get moving again.
With Warwick only 10 days away I am fairly confident I will be walking alongside Tesso but at least I will compete and be able to catch up with everyone again :)
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
Wednesday Run
Distance: 12km
Time: 1:01:25
Pace: slow
Location: on my own from Regatta, through gardens, then back to Regatta via Southbank.
Exertion: legs felt tired and dead - but they are still there!!
Time: 1:01:25
Pace: slow
Location: on my own from Regatta, through gardens, then back to Regatta via Southbank.
Exertion: legs felt tired and dead - but they are still there!!
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
Anzaz Day Run
Went out for a run tonight after a full day of Anzac celebrations.
Have no idea of distance, just ran for 59mins and felt great but slow.
Very emotional run as I was in full kit from the marathon and even when I turned on my ipod it was paused on the song that was playing when I got to the 42km mark in Canberra. (I paused it then so I could hear the crowd for the last 200m).
Have no idea of distance, just ran for 59mins and felt great but slow.
Very emotional run as I was in full kit from the marathon and even when I turned on my ipod it was paused on the song that was playing when I got to the 42km mark in Canberra. (I paused it then so I could hear the crowd for the last 200m).
Monday, April 24, 2006
I'm Back
Totally inspired over the weekend. Spent the day with the kids and the nights with hubby. Ate and drank all weekend but had a ball and mentally am ready for an enslaught of training.
Headed to the gym this morning and did 20min hills on the bike followed by some weights.
Will be at the Dawn Service tomorrow (4:28am) but will do a run immediately afterwards.
Officially....today marks my comeback.
Headed to the gym this morning and did 20min hills on the bike followed by some weights.
Will be at the Dawn Service tomorrow (4:28am) but will do a run immediately afterwards.
Officially....today marks my comeback.
Friday, April 21, 2006
Going Back to Canberra
Fly out next week to head back to Canberra for 4 days. Will be good to make the trip to pick up my running Mojo that I seem to have left behind. (forget the fact that my sister is actually getting married.....)
Coming home after the Marathon I had fully anticipated a lot of things - little running for the first week, immmuno suppressed body, and depression. This was all catered for as my pre-race strategy had included preparation for this.
POST MARATHON RUNNING:
I took 5 days off with no running at all. Then hubby took me out for a 4km run. It was good to get moving again. Two days later I went out for another run - 8km easy with Chris's training group. Again, the legs felt great but I just didn't get into it. I haven't run since Tuesday and am starting to feel fat, tired, grumpy and useless.
IMMUNE SYSTEM - POST RACE:
I ate healthily the week after the marathon up to Easter. No alcohol, low fat, lots of veges etc. This was good for the body and I managed to not feel tired or get any colds or flus or even much muscle soreness after day two.
DEPRESSION:
Not often talked about but certainly in all the marathon books etc to watch out for. I am just not the type to suffer from depression however my lack of motivations is a form of depression I am starting to think.
I purposely set myself some goal races for after Canberra so I would not feel this way and would be keen to get back into training. But it doesn't seem to be working. Tess isn't out there running with me and it seems everyone else is training for Brisbane Marathon so doing long long runs. I am not ready to kill myself at speed training just yet so have not been back to Pat Carrolls session with all my mates either.
I just keep thinking....I had the perfect race - what else is there?
I know I need to pull my finger out and kickstart my running but the kit kats and alcohol that I have been avoiding for three months now are my best friends.
On top of all that my hip is giving me grief - not when I run but certainly when I have been sitting for a period of time. Maybe Tess is right - all this inactivity is just not good for us!
Off to the Sports Doctor to get a professional opinion and will keep you updated.
Coming home after the Marathon I had fully anticipated a lot of things - little running for the first week, immmuno suppressed body, and depression. This was all catered for as my pre-race strategy had included preparation for this.
POST MARATHON RUNNING:
I took 5 days off with no running at all. Then hubby took me out for a 4km run. It was good to get moving again. Two days later I went out for another run - 8km easy with Chris's training group. Again, the legs felt great but I just didn't get into it. I haven't run since Tuesday and am starting to feel fat, tired, grumpy and useless.
IMMUNE SYSTEM - POST RACE:
I ate healthily the week after the marathon up to Easter. No alcohol, low fat, lots of veges etc. This was good for the body and I managed to not feel tired or get any colds or flus or even much muscle soreness after day two.
DEPRESSION:
Not often talked about but certainly in all the marathon books etc to watch out for. I am just not the type to suffer from depression however my lack of motivations is a form of depression I am starting to think.
I purposely set myself some goal races for after Canberra so I would not feel this way and would be keen to get back into training. But it doesn't seem to be working. Tess isn't out there running with me and it seems everyone else is training for Brisbane Marathon so doing long long runs. I am not ready to kill myself at speed training just yet so have not been back to Pat Carrolls session with all my mates either.
I just keep thinking....I had the perfect race - what else is there?
I know I need to pull my finger out and kickstart my running but the kit kats and alcohol that I have been avoiding for three months now are my best friends.
On top of all that my hip is giving me grief - not when I run but certainly when I have been sitting for a period of time. Maybe Tess is right - all this inactivity is just not good for us!
Off to the Sports Doctor to get a professional opinion and will keep you updated.
Tuesday, April 11, 2006
2006 CANBERRA MARATHON
Oh My goodness, I am now a marathoner!
Even on the morning of the race I was extremely nervous. Some things you just can't control. JD and Tess were absolute legends in talking me through it and calming me down. I also replayed all the great things everyone has been telling me over the past few weeks in my head and that helped as well.
I think I was more nervous about letting everyone down and making a fool of myself than anything else.
I did a 400m warmup - was going to do longer but when I ran from the start line down 200m I say the sign saying 42km and I felt like vomiting so I then turned around and went back to the start.
Found Tesso and we lined up like giggly girls all ready for the big suprise.
For the first 2km I was grinning from ear to ear. I couldn't believe I was running a marathon. It was wonderful and to have Tesso there beside me was just like in my dreams.
At around the 3km mark I saw Tara and Ciaran ditch their clothes so I took my jacket off too and threw it on the pile beside the road. My gloves I kept with me the whole race!
I got to the 5km drink table and looked at my watch - WTF it said 29mins. I then pushed on and tried to get in front of the 3:30 group that I was running behind. I felt better when I got to the 10km mark as I was in front of schedule. I couldn't work it out. Later Tess told me the 5km Drink Station was not at 5km it was closer to 6km mark. Now I understand!
So at 11km I caught up with RobertSong and we ran together for quite some time taking turns in front. At 12km I pulled back a bit after some lovely woman told me I was running too fast and would burn up and hit the wall shortly. By 16km I threw her nasty words out of my head and got back on track to my plan.
At 17km I saw my dad on the side of the road and slowed enough to tell him I loved him. I then continued up the rise and then the downhill that follows to the turnaround. I saw Dad again on the way back and he had crossed the road to slap my hand as I ran past. I felt very happy and stong here.
Soon after I went through the half marathon point and looked at my watch for the last time. It said 1:41:50. I was stocked. When I got back to Cow Bell corner and there was the CR cheer squad in full regalia I got all excited again. But it totally blew me away when I saw Pat standing waiting for me to come around. He ran up to me and slapped my hand and told me to keep it strong I was doing well. Nothing like a pep talk to make you run hard :)
The guys around me said "you have lots of support here today" and I told them it was my first one and they all nodded and smiled secretly. I then vowed to beat every one of them and not hit the wall as they expected me too.
Coach Chris was a big support out there and kept me going with good vibes and waves and cheers. It is just undescribable to say how that sort of support just lifts you up.
The 30km mark soon approached on the way out to Black Mountain and I told the guys I was with...this is where the race starts and I upped the pace a bit to break away. Silly childish girl :)
Around 32km I saw my Dad again and went up then down the rise to the turnaround for the final time. After he saw me so ill from the 10km run last year I had to be strong for him so just before the 34km when I saw him again I puffed up my chest and put on a big smile and slapped his hand and told him I would see him later. He had to be a church at 10am so I knew he wouldn't see me finish. But just having him out there for several hours was so good for me.
Coming in to the finish all the coolrunners i was passing on the other side were calling out to me and I can barely recall the final few km's as it is a blur of support and good wishes.
Sue (Pat Carroll's) Missus came up to me around 41km I think and she was screaming at me and so so happy for me that I got all emotional and started crying. I calmed myself down but it was hard - I was so emotional. I realised then I could finish the race as long as I got to the next corner in one piece.
I had also just gone past Luckylegs and Horrie and this was also emotional. Both of them are inspirational to me and I felt a swell of pride that I knew who they were and what they were doing out there. I am proud to be a coolrunner and to know all this wonderful people and see them doing amazing things. It is a feeling only other coolrunners will know. A community spirit like no other I have seen.
Near here, I saw a girl a pink hat in front of me and just focussed on reeling her in. Damn it, at the same time she pulled away and was reeling in others in front of her! We were both getting faster but even though I gained on her slightly I was never going to catch her. At the 42km mark I didn't care, I knew then I was going to finish this marathon without hitting the wall, 42.2km without walking or stopping or feeling any major pain. 42.2km of hard work that was the most rewarding of all my runs I have done.
I looked up and saw both sides full of people screaming at me. I saw Truckie (bright green suit helps distinguish him!!) and heard the blur of others. I then looked up at the clock and say 3:22 and almost burst out crying then. I crossed in an official time of 3:23:14.
I saw Mark at the finish (iliketoast) and just clung to him whilst I sobbed on his shoulder. Little did he know that he was also holding me up! My legs had turned to jelly as soon as the tears started. I calmed down and just grinned and grinned. I looked around for someone and there she was....good Ole Tesso at the finish line with a gigantic grin on her face!!! We hugged and cried together and I will remember it for the rest of my life. I got some water and had a tap on my shoulder.....it was my dad. He had given up church to see me finish and that was a big thing. I was ecstatic and hugged him and he told me how proud I had made him. He knows nothing about running but he knew I had achieved/bettered my goal of 3:30. I found out later he had texted my whole family 8 times during the race about how I was in front of the 3:30 train. No-one knew exactly what my dad meant but thought it was exciting ha ha. My beloved Allan knew and he held his breath the whole way until he got Dad's final text.
I had done it. I had run my first marathon and my mind is still boggling with the result. Thanks to absolutely everyone one of you out there for your support and your calming efforts pre-race and for the big cheers afterwards. It made my experience greater to share it with you all. xxxxxx
Lots of love,
Clairie - the Marathoner.
Even on the morning of the race I was extremely nervous. Some things you just can't control. JD and Tess were absolute legends in talking me through it and calming me down. I also replayed all the great things everyone has been telling me over the past few weeks in my head and that helped as well.
I think I was more nervous about letting everyone down and making a fool of myself than anything else.
I did a 400m warmup - was going to do longer but when I ran from the start line down 200m I say the sign saying 42km and I felt like vomiting so I then turned around and went back to the start.
Found Tesso and we lined up like giggly girls all ready for the big suprise.
For the first 2km I was grinning from ear to ear. I couldn't believe I was running a marathon. It was wonderful and to have Tesso there beside me was just like in my dreams.
At around the 3km mark I saw Tara and Ciaran ditch their clothes so I took my jacket off too and threw it on the pile beside the road. My gloves I kept with me the whole race!
I got to the 5km drink table and looked at my watch - WTF it said 29mins. I then pushed on and tried to get in front of the 3:30 group that I was running behind. I felt better when I got to the 10km mark as I was in front of schedule. I couldn't work it out. Later Tess told me the 5km Drink Station was not at 5km it was closer to 6km mark. Now I understand!
So at 11km I caught up with RobertSong and we ran together for quite some time taking turns in front. At 12km I pulled back a bit after some lovely woman told me I was running too fast and would burn up and hit the wall shortly. By 16km I threw her nasty words out of my head and got back on track to my plan.
At 17km I saw my dad on the side of the road and slowed enough to tell him I loved him. I then continued up the rise and then the downhill that follows to the turnaround. I saw Dad again on the way back and he had crossed the road to slap my hand as I ran past. I felt very happy and stong here.
Soon after I went through the half marathon point and looked at my watch for the last time. It said 1:41:50. I was stocked. When I got back to Cow Bell corner and there was the CR cheer squad in full regalia I got all excited again. But it totally blew me away when I saw Pat standing waiting for me to come around. He ran up to me and slapped my hand and told me to keep it strong I was doing well. Nothing like a pep talk to make you run hard :)
The guys around me said "you have lots of support here today" and I told them it was my first one and they all nodded and smiled secretly. I then vowed to beat every one of them and not hit the wall as they expected me too.
Coach Chris was a big support out there and kept me going with good vibes and waves and cheers. It is just undescribable to say how that sort of support just lifts you up.
The 30km mark soon approached on the way out to Black Mountain and I told the guys I was with...this is where the race starts and I upped the pace a bit to break away. Silly childish girl :)
Around 32km I saw my Dad again and went up then down the rise to the turnaround for the final time. After he saw me so ill from the 10km run last year I had to be strong for him so just before the 34km when I saw him again I puffed up my chest and put on a big smile and slapped his hand and told him I would see him later. He had to be a church at 10am so I knew he wouldn't see me finish. But just having him out there for several hours was so good for me.
Coming in to the finish all the coolrunners i was passing on the other side were calling out to me and I can barely recall the final few km's as it is a blur of support and good wishes.
Sue (Pat Carroll's) Missus came up to me around 41km I think and she was screaming at me and so so happy for me that I got all emotional and started crying. I calmed myself down but it was hard - I was so emotional. I realised then I could finish the race as long as I got to the next corner in one piece.
I had also just gone past Luckylegs and Horrie and this was also emotional. Both of them are inspirational to me and I felt a swell of pride that I knew who they were and what they were doing out there. I am proud to be a coolrunner and to know all this wonderful people and see them doing amazing things. It is a feeling only other coolrunners will know. A community spirit like no other I have seen.
Near here, I saw a girl a pink hat in front of me and just focussed on reeling her in. Damn it, at the same time she pulled away and was reeling in others in front of her! We were both getting faster but even though I gained on her slightly I was never going to catch her. At the 42km mark I didn't care, I knew then I was going to finish this marathon without hitting the wall, 42.2km without walking or stopping or feeling any major pain. 42.2km of hard work that was the most rewarding of all my runs I have done.
I looked up and saw both sides full of people screaming at me. I saw Truckie (bright green suit helps distinguish him!!) and heard the blur of others. I then looked up at the clock and say 3:22 and almost burst out crying then. I crossed in an official time of 3:23:14.
I saw Mark at the finish (iliketoast) and just clung to him whilst I sobbed on his shoulder. Little did he know that he was also holding me up! My legs had turned to jelly as soon as the tears started. I calmed down and just grinned and grinned. I looked around for someone and there she was....good Ole Tesso at the finish line with a gigantic grin on her face!!! We hugged and cried together and I will remember it for the rest of my life. I got some water and had a tap on my shoulder.....it was my dad. He had given up church to see me finish and that was a big thing. I was ecstatic and hugged him and he told me how proud I had made him. He knows nothing about running but he knew I had achieved/bettered my goal of 3:30. I found out later he had texted my whole family 8 times during the race about how I was in front of the 3:30 train. No-one knew exactly what my dad meant but thought it was exciting ha ha. My beloved Allan knew and he held his breath the whole way until he got Dad's final text.
I had done it. I had run my first marathon and my mind is still boggling with the result. Thanks to absolutely everyone one of you out there for your support and your calming efforts pre-race and for the big cheers afterwards. It made my experience greater to share it with you all. xxxxxx
Lots of love,
Clairie - the Marathoner.
Friday, April 07, 2006
It's Time
It is 5am. I am tired. Not sleeping well at all this week.
Will try to be in bed nice and early tonight if I can.
I have to leave in an hours time and I have not packed. My ipod that had all my carefully picked songs on it decided to delete them all when I reconnected after loading some mp3's last night so I was up till 11pm trying to recall the order I had them in. Gave up and whacked the library on it so now counting on a suprise to great me every 4mins out there on Sunday :)
I have not actually been NERVOUS until now. The cold weather has really put doubts into my head but I think I am using that as an excuse, surely cold weather will only make me run faster. But do I wear short skins or long......???
This week has gone so fast. A few short runs in absolute extreme humidity and heat - each of them leaving me feeling very hot, sweaty and exhausted. And none of them have been at faster than race pace or for long periods. It has just been that humid - our Tuesday run was 23 degrees and 95% humidity at 6am.
I haven't really been carboloading much. Just eating extra helpings, though I have been drinking way more than usual - with powerade mostly. Yesterday afternoon I had a big handful of chico babes (lollies) does that count? Today I will ensure I eat well and not let my nerves dictate my diet. much.
So here we are. I have 60mins to pack. Not to fear my race kit is in my rucksack already. It is just everything else. I have a list so I FEEL organised.
My race plan is imbedded in my head and I keep reminding myself to go out slow. The first 5km I plan to do in 26mins. Then build it up from there.
I have had so much support over the lead into Canberra and it has been great and until this week I was floating and gloating on all that support. It truly has been wonderful that so many people can provide me with advice, reassurance, warm hugs, positive vibes and all the rest that you all do for me. Then I came crashing down when someone phoned to say "you still have to run the race, and only you can do that".
I think somewhere along the line I got so caught up in the hub of training for a marathon I forgot I was actually going to have to run this marathon.
Again, reading Superflakes blog I was reminded - It will be hard. It is a challenge. That is why I wanted to do this in the first place. IT WILL NOT BE EASY. I have to keep telling myself so at 10km or 35km when the going gets tough I don't think 'man no one told me about this' and believe my race is over.
I have a very tough day to get through at work and I can't even think straight. Yesterday I was in a meeting and was noting my splits on a notepad and was very distracted. This marathon has been my life for so long now that I am desperate to prove myself to me and to all of you.
It is funny, I don't have doubts.....just nerves of the unknown.
Thank you for your support along the way. I know also that you will all be supporting me on the day too. That's when I need you and that's also when I can repay you for all your support by showing you that I can do this. I can run a marathon and enjoy it and work hard and achieve my goals.
I'll log on before I fly out at 3pm. See you all there Canberra or here in cyberworld next week. *waves, tears and hugs to you all*
Cirque, Hannah, Shane - wish you were coming. :(
Will try to be in bed nice and early tonight if I can.
I have to leave in an hours time and I have not packed. My ipod that had all my carefully picked songs on it decided to delete them all when I reconnected after loading some mp3's last night so I was up till 11pm trying to recall the order I had them in. Gave up and whacked the library on it so now counting on a suprise to great me every 4mins out there on Sunday :)
I have not actually been NERVOUS until now. The cold weather has really put doubts into my head but I think I am using that as an excuse, surely cold weather will only make me run faster. But do I wear short skins or long......???
This week has gone so fast. A few short runs in absolute extreme humidity and heat - each of them leaving me feeling very hot, sweaty and exhausted. And none of them have been at faster than race pace or for long periods. It has just been that humid - our Tuesday run was 23 degrees and 95% humidity at 6am.
I haven't really been carboloading much. Just eating extra helpings, though I have been drinking way more than usual - with powerade mostly. Yesterday afternoon I had a big handful of chico babes (lollies) does that count? Today I will ensure I eat well and not let my nerves dictate my diet. much.
So here we are. I have 60mins to pack. Not to fear my race kit is in my rucksack already. It is just everything else. I have a list so I FEEL organised.
My race plan is imbedded in my head and I keep reminding myself to go out slow. The first 5km I plan to do in 26mins. Then build it up from there.
I have had so much support over the lead into Canberra and it has been great and until this week I was floating and gloating on all that support. It truly has been wonderful that so many people can provide me with advice, reassurance, warm hugs, positive vibes and all the rest that you all do for me. Then I came crashing down when someone phoned to say "you still have to run the race, and only you can do that".
I think somewhere along the line I got so caught up in the hub of training for a marathon I forgot I was actually going to have to run this marathon.
Again, reading Superflakes blog I was reminded - It will be hard. It is a challenge. That is why I wanted to do this in the first place. IT WILL NOT BE EASY. I have to keep telling myself so at 10km or 35km when the going gets tough I don't think 'man no one told me about this' and believe my race is over.
I have a very tough day to get through at work and I can't even think straight. Yesterday I was in a meeting and was noting my splits on a notepad and was very distracted. This marathon has been my life for so long now that I am desperate to prove myself to me and to all of you.
It is funny, I don't have doubts.....just nerves of the unknown.
Thank you for your support along the way. I know also that you will all be supporting me on the day too. That's when I need you and that's also when I can repay you for all your support by showing you that I can do this. I can run a marathon and enjoy it and work hard and achieve my goals.
I'll log on before I fly out at 3pm. See you all there Canberra or here in cyberworld next week. *waves, tears and hugs to you all*
Cirque, Hannah, Shane - wish you were coming. :(
Saturday, April 01, 2006
Taper Time
Well and truly felt the taper this morning.
Went out and ran 10km. Tried to run at race pace but could not slow down that much. I felt great and just ran at average of 4:40 pace with some faster and some slower kms.
When it was finished I wanted to keep going and run for much longer. But I didn't.
It was hard to see all my other fellow Canberran's doing 16km this morning but I stuck to my program and just did my 10km.
Now this week I will be sorting out my music and packing my bag and cleaning the house...not much running so gotta fill the gaps somehow.
Won't blog this week as I found reading everyone's posts this weekend very exciting and it made me feel a bit nervous. That and I won't have much to blog!!!!
Have I bitten off more than I can chew? Course not, I am confident but will have to work hard to keep the nerves away now....this time next week I will be a marathoner. Wow!
Went out and ran 10km. Tried to run at race pace but could not slow down that much. I felt great and just ran at average of 4:40 pace with some faster and some slower kms.
When it was finished I wanted to keep going and run for much longer. But I didn't.
It was hard to see all my other fellow Canberran's doing 16km this morning but I stuck to my program and just did my 10km.
Now this week I will be sorting out my music and packing my bag and cleaning the house...not much running so gotta fill the gaps somehow.
Won't blog this week as I found reading everyone's posts this weekend very exciting and it made me feel a bit nervous. That and I won't have much to blog!!!!
Have I bitten off more than I can chew? Course not, I am confident but will have to work hard to keep the nerves away now....this time next week I will be a marathoner. Wow!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)