Day 400: What Running Taught Me in 2013
I just past the one year mark in my running journey. I can't believe it was only last fall that my journey started. Over the last 12 months, I have run four races, recorded running 187 kilometers (on dailymile.com), and learned some really cool life lessons while on the road.
Lesson One: Running is an individual sport, but an individual doesn't run alone.
The first (and best) thing I did when I started running was to ask if anyone in the group wanted to run with me outside of the group runs. You see, I knew this running thing would be tough for me. I was (and still am) over weight and injury prone. I knew that my chances for failure were high. I needed someone to hold me accountable for the mid-week runs. I needed someone to talk to while running. I needed a running buddy to kept me from feeling alone.
The same thing holds true in life. We are all living our own individual lives, but none of us are living our lives alone. Each of us need friends to hold us accountable, to talk with us and encourage us. Life is tough and the chance for failure is high. Meeting together every now and then in a group isn't enough. Daily interaction with a buddy is where growth happens.
Lesson Two: Set a goal and celebrate it! No matter how small.
This wasn't my first rodeo. I have taken up jogging before, and exercising, and eating healthy, and every other New Year's resolution that has ever been made. And I have failed spectacularly! So what made this time different? I set a goal with a reward and then celebrated it. It wasn't a big goal. I only had to stay in the running program for four weeks. That's it! Run three times a week for four weeks. And because it was the beginning of the Couch to 5K program, most of that "running" was really walking. Simple right? By the end of week two, I was ready to quit, but I had a reward waiting for me if I stuck with it for two more weeks; my first pair of running shoes. Not cross-trainers, not tennis shoes, running shoes.
I did it! I ran/walked for four weeks and got my shoes. (I love those shoes.) Then I set another goal for four more weeks. This time I got clothes. (Winter running gear.) The next goal was a race (with an injury thrown in there for good measure). None of these were big, but they were motivating.
Now, my big motivation is a glass of chocolate milk after every run. Chocolate milk is a luxury that I have not afforded myself since the days of school lunches. Every run is a celebration of simply being able to run.
Lesson Three: Be inspiring.
Okay, so this one happened late in the year and actually will probably end up being a goal for the next year. After my third race, I started running into other people, some of them runners, who wanted to know why I run. So, like any good storyteller, I told them about my journey. Each time it was a little different depending on who I was talking to and how much time we had to talk. But each talk ended the same way, "You are an inspiration." Wow, me? An inspiration? Well, I guess that is part of my motivation for writing this blog. I wanted other beginning runners to know that although running is hard it is do-able. But an inspiration?
In hindsight, that's what motivates me to run. During the race I missed due to injury, I saw runners encouraging other runners. Runners going back out to run with a slower runner. People cheering for everyone including the last place finishers. That's what I wanted to be. I wanted to be a runner who encouraged other runners, who would run with a slower runner and help them get to the finish line. I wanted to be there cheering for the last place finisher simple because they finished the race.
So, as 2013 ends and 2014 begins, I vow to run with a friend, celebrate every run, and be inspiring. My year of struggling to learn to run is over. My year of encouraging other runners has begun.
Looking forward to being inspiring,
Lisa
Tuesday, December 31, 2013
Sunday, November 10, 2013
Day 349: Words
Day 349: Words
Tonight I sit here at my computer, after running 8 km, and marvel at the fact that it has been almost one full year since my injury and the beginning of this journey. I have run a total of four races this year; my last one was on November 2nd. I ran a 3 mile trail at Starved Rock for my birthday (a bucket list item checked off). My next season of running is planned and the details will be finalized after the first of the year.
So, what do I write about? My joints are no longer plaguing me. My run times have improved from dismal to respectable. My distances are slowly getting longer.
So, what is left to talk about in a Runner's Journal?
The Runner.
This weekend I attended a women's retreat through my church. It was excited and exhilarating. And it left me with a lot to think about.
Words. Messages. Spoken and unspoken language. This was the topic.
What does this have to do with running?
Everything!
I discovered this weekend that running is one of my messages. The things I say about running influence others; runners and non-runners alike. The things I write here in this blog influence others. Words, both spoken and unspoken, are powerful!
Listen:
Two doctors, both with the same level of education, same field of study, same injury, same diagnoses, 25 years apart. One doctor says, "Quit! Give up! You'll never be able to do it." The other doctor says, "We can fix that! You'll be up and going soon." One doctor spoke death. One doctor spoke life. Twenty five years were lost because one person said, "You Can't."
Words. Are. Powerful.
My question to both you and me is: Which doctor am I? Do I shout, "Quit!", "You can't!", "Give up!" or do I shout, "Let's go!" "You can do this!"
Tonight I choose to keep journaling. To keep writing about running. To keep telling my story as it unfolds both on the road and at home.
I don't know what this next year of running will bring, but I do know it will be worth sharing.
Learning to speak life while running down life's road,
Lisa
Tonight I sit here at my computer, after running 8 km, and marvel at the fact that it has been almost one full year since my injury and the beginning of this journey. I have run a total of four races this year; my last one was on November 2nd. I ran a 3 mile trail at Starved Rock for my birthday (a bucket list item checked off). My next season of running is planned and the details will be finalized after the first of the year.
So, what do I write about? My joints are no longer plaguing me. My run times have improved from dismal to respectable. My distances are slowly getting longer.
So, what is left to talk about in a Runner's Journal?
The Runner.
This weekend I attended a women's retreat through my church. It was excited and exhilarating. And it left me with a lot to think about.
Words. Messages. Spoken and unspoken language. This was the topic.
What does this have to do with running?
Everything!
I discovered this weekend that running is one of my messages. The things I say about running influence others; runners and non-runners alike. The things I write here in this blog influence others. Words, both spoken and unspoken, are powerful!
Words kill, words give life; they’re either poison or fruit—you choose
Listen:
Two doctors, both with the same level of education, same field of study, same injury, same diagnoses, 25 years apart. One doctor says, "Quit! Give up! You'll never be able to do it." The other doctor says, "We can fix that! You'll be up and going soon." One doctor spoke death. One doctor spoke life. Twenty five years were lost because one person said, "You Can't."
Words. Are. Powerful.
My question to both you and me is: Which doctor am I? Do I shout, "Quit!", "You can't!", "Give up!" or do I shout, "Let's go!" "You can do this!"
Tonight I choose to keep journaling. To keep writing about running. To keep telling my story as it unfolds both on the road and at home.
I don't know what this next year of running will bring, but I do know it will be worth sharing.
Learning to speak life while running down life's road,
Lisa
Saturday, September 28, 2013
Day 306: The Journey Continues
Day 306: The Journey Continues
In September 2012, I started my running journey with the Southfield Running Group. With Bob Coyne leading, a group of us completed the Couch to 5K program. It was toward the end of this program that I injured my ankle and thus started this blog.
Today I completed my third race and set a new PR for the third time. Now, I do realize that at some point I will plateau with my times and make smaller and less frequent speed gains. So, today I officially switch my focus from speed gains to distance gains.
Just a week ago, I ran 8k with my running partner Daisy. That was exciting and for the first time ever, I have started to consider running a half marathon and maybe someday a full marathon.
Wow, I can't believe I just put that in writing.
So, the journey continues as I move into training for longer distances. I plan on completing the Joliet Run 3 in 2014 before moving onto longer distances. Be sure to stay tuned for the next chapter in this journey.
Here's to meeting goals. Setting new ones. And never giving up.
Lisa
In September 2012, I started my running journey with the Southfield Running Group. With Bob Coyne leading, a group of us completed the Couch to 5K program. It was toward the end of this program that I injured my ankle and thus started this blog.
Today I completed my third race and set a new PR for the third time. Now, I do realize that at some point I will plateau with my times and make smaller and less frequent speed gains. So, today I officially switch my focus from speed gains to distance gains.
Just a week ago, I ran 8k with my running partner Daisy. That was exciting and for the first time ever, I have started to consider running a half marathon and maybe someday a full marathon.
Wow, I can't believe I just put that in writing.
So, the journey continues as I move into training for longer distances. I plan on completing the Joliet Run 3 in 2014 before moving onto longer distances. Be sure to stay tuned for the next chapter in this journey.
Here's to meeting goals. Setting new ones. And never giving up.
Lisa
Wednesday, August 28, 2013
Day 275: Running Blues
Day 275:
Two weeks ago I ran my fastest run and felt great! Since then my runs have gone down hill. I have had a cold, cramping calves, and tonight an unhappy digestive tract. Running is hard! And sometimes down right depressing.
It seems that no matter how much personal growth I make, I am still so far behind my fellow runners their dust has already settled by the time I catch up. Every setback, no matter how small, seems devastating.
It's times like these that I am glad I spent so much time memorizing Bible verses as a teen. 2 Corinthians 4:18 comes to mind. "So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." I have to remember that I run not just to meet some arbitrary goal or to keep up with all the "cool" running kids. I run because I can. I run because I enjoy the feeling moving fast. The wind in my face, the sun shinning down, the fresh air of the trails, and even the solitude of running alone.
It is the unseen pleasures of running that matter the most. These are things that can't be measured by clocks or distance.
I think I just needed to remind myself of why I run. Maybe if I start my next run with these things in mind, it will go better.
Remembering why I run,
Lisa
Two weeks ago I ran my fastest run and felt great! Since then my runs have gone down hill. I have had a cold, cramping calves, and tonight an unhappy digestive tract. Running is hard! And sometimes down right depressing.
It seems that no matter how much personal growth I make, I am still so far behind my fellow runners their dust has already settled by the time I catch up. Every setback, no matter how small, seems devastating.
It's times like these that I am glad I spent so much time memorizing Bible verses as a teen. 2 Corinthians 4:18 comes to mind. "So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." I have to remember that I run not just to meet some arbitrary goal or to keep up with all the "cool" running kids. I run because I can. I run because I enjoy the feeling moving fast. The wind in my face, the sun shinning down, the fresh air of the trails, and even the solitude of running alone.
It is the unseen pleasures of running that matter the most. These are things that can't be measured by clocks or distance.
I think I just needed to remind myself of why I run. Maybe if I start my next run with these things in mind, it will go better.
Remembering why I run,
Lisa
Thursday, August 8, 2013
Day 255: Running for a Building
Day 255:
I need your help! I have set a few tough goals for myself to meet before the end of the year in preparation for running a 10k in the spring. One is to be able to run a 5k in 40 minutes or less and two is running 17 plus km a week. So, to make this a little more fun, I added a new challenge: run 250km by December 31, 2013.
Here's where you come in. I am asking everyone I know to donate 10 cents for every km I run between now and December 31st to the Southfield Church building fund. Yes, you heard that right! Southfield is finally ready to build a home base! I am so excited!
I have spent a lot of time over that last two weeks trying to come up with a fun and creative way to contribute to the building fund. My family and I don't have a lot of money for fluff so, we really don't have anything to give up.
So, what do I have? Baby blankets, funny stories, and running.
My first idea was to sell baby blankets, but I felt guilty asking for money for something I have always given away to celebrate a new life. And well, my comedy relief is really not ready to be taken on the road. So, that leaves running.
Then Pastor Dennis threw down the gauntlet by offering to donate 40 pounds. What a great idea! I can't guarantee I will ever lose weight, but I can run 250km! I will run one kilometer for every $1,000 we need to raise. If 40 people donate 10 cents a km, that's a total of $1,000 raised. That's my goal!
Getting ready run for a building,
Lisa
If you want to check out Dennis' challenge, go over to FieldNotesToday.com: http://www.fieldnotestoday.com/2013/08/im-donating-40-pounds-toward-our-new-building.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogs%2Fqjon+%28Field+Notes+Today%29&utm_content=FaceBook
I need your help! I have set a few tough goals for myself to meet before the end of the year in preparation for running a 10k in the spring. One is to be able to run a 5k in 40 minutes or less and two is running 17 plus km a week. So, to make this a little more fun, I added a new challenge: run 250km by December 31, 2013.
Here's where you come in. I am asking everyone I know to donate 10 cents for every km I run between now and December 31st to the Southfield Church building fund. Yes, you heard that right! Southfield is finally ready to build a home base! I am so excited!
To Donate click on the link below:
I have spent a lot of time over that last two weeks trying to come up with a fun and creative way to contribute to the building fund. My family and I don't have a lot of money for fluff so, we really don't have anything to give up.
So, what do I have? Baby blankets, funny stories, and running.
My first idea was to sell baby blankets, but I felt guilty asking for money for something I have always given away to celebrate a new life. And well, my comedy relief is really not ready to be taken on the road. So, that leaves running.
Then Pastor Dennis threw down the gauntlet by offering to donate 40 pounds. What a great idea! I can't guarantee I will ever lose weight, but I can run 250km! I will run one kilometer for every $1,000 we need to raise. If 40 people donate 10 cents a km, that's a total of $1,000 raised. That's my goal!
Getting ready run for a building,
Lisa
If you want to check out Dennis' challenge, go over to FieldNotesToday.com: http://www.fieldnotestoday.com/2013/08/im-donating-40-pounds-toward-our-new-building.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogs%2Fqjon+%28Field+Notes+Today%29&utm_content=FaceBook
Monday, July 22, 2013
Day 238: Reflections
Day 238: Reflections
It's Monday night. My race was Thursday night. I think I have finally recovered from the race and am ready to start training for the next one. But before I do, I want to look back at that race one more time.
The Joliet Sundowner 5k fell during yet another heat wave. The temperatures had been in the upper 90's with humidity almost as high all week. The sky actually threatened to storm for awhile, but by race time the sun was back out and the humidity had returned.
The race went off without a hitch and thanks to some great planning by the Joliet Park District, the water stations were fully stocked even for us slow ones. I finished the race with a time of 46:32! My best time so far! I met my goal of running a 15 min mile and fell short of my overall time goal by half a minute. I'm pretty happy!
As I think back on this race, a few things stand out to me. First, the heat. Yes, it was hot, but I was in the shade during the race. So, for me, it wasn't bad.
Daisy said the heat got to her around mile two. It probably would have gotten me too if it wasn't for a few other runners on the course. One gentleman stopped to walk with me a few paces then as he started running again shouted back to me, "If I don't make it, tell them I died happy!" This made me chuckle.
There was a mom and daughter in pink shirts that had been close by since around the first mile marker. They had remained just in sight in front of my for most of mile two. As the second mile marker approached, the little girl started to lose it. She was ready to quit! Frankly, so was I. As I ran passed, I shouted to her, "You're two thirds of the way there. Not far to go now! You can do it!" In my head, I was saying the same thing to myself. The pair stayed nearby the rest of the race and even passed me when I suggested we race to the finish. Encouraging her was like encouraging myself.
The last and greatest part of the race was the end. (Of course!) Not for the reasons you would think though. As I came into that final stretch and the mom and daughter pair took off, one final song came on my ipod shuffle. Right before my cheering squad could be seen and heard I hear in my ear, "It's the end of the world as we know it. It's the end of the world as we know it, and I feel fine!" Yep, good ole R.E.M. is there to sing me to the finish line. So, while my friends are cheering, I'm singing in my head, "It's the end of the race as we know it, and I feel fine!"
So, here I am at the end of the race, feeling fine. Where are you at the end of your race? Do you feel fine? Are you like the guy who said during the race I died happy? Are you the little girl needing someone to tell you to keep going, the finish is just around the corner?
I know runners are always comparing running to life, especially our spiritual lives. So if this season of life right now was a race, where are you? Are you running happy? Are you chasing someone/something that is just out of reach? Are you ready to quit and need a little encouragement? Are you the one shouting encouragement to others? Where is your cheering team?
Thursday night, I was feeling fine. Monday night, I'm back at the second mile marker needing some encouragement as I go about the task of setting new goals for the next race.
Thinking about goals,
Lisa
It's Monday night. My race was Thursday night. I think I have finally recovered from the race and am ready to start training for the next one. But before I do, I want to look back at that race one more time.
The Joliet Sundowner 5k fell during yet another heat wave. The temperatures had been in the upper 90's with humidity almost as high all week. The sky actually threatened to storm for awhile, but by race time the sun was back out and the humidity had returned.
The race went off without a hitch and thanks to some great planning by the Joliet Park District, the water stations were fully stocked even for us slow ones. I finished the race with a time of 46:32! My best time so far! I met my goal of running a 15 min mile and fell short of my overall time goal by half a minute. I'm pretty happy!
Daisy said the heat got to her around mile two. It probably would have gotten me too if it wasn't for a few other runners on the course. One gentleman stopped to walk with me a few paces then as he started running again shouted back to me, "If I don't make it, tell them I died happy!" This made me chuckle.
There was a mom and daughter in pink shirts that had been close by since around the first mile marker. They had remained just in sight in front of my for most of mile two. As the second mile marker approached, the little girl started to lose it. She was ready to quit! Frankly, so was I. As I ran passed, I shouted to her, "You're two thirds of the way there. Not far to go now! You can do it!" In my head, I was saying the same thing to myself. The pair stayed nearby the rest of the race and even passed me when I suggested we race to the finish. Encouraging her was like encouraging myself.
The last and greatest part of the race was the end. (Of course!) Not for the reasons you would think though. As I came into that final stretch and the mom and daughter pair took off, one final song came on my ipod shuffle. Right before my cheering squad could be seen and heard I hear in my ear, "It's the end of the world as we know it. It's the end of the world as we know it, and I feel fine!" Yep, good ole R.E.M. is there to sing me to the finish line. So, while my friends are cheering, I'm singing in my head, "It's the end of the race as we know it, and I feel fine!"
So, here I am at the end of the race, feeling fine. Where are you at the end of your race? Do you feel fine? Are you like the guy who said during the race I died happy? Are you the little girl needing someone to tell you to keep going, the finish is just around the corner?
I know runners are always comparing running to life, especially our spiritual lives. So if this season of life right now was a race, where are you? Are you running happy? Are you chasing someone/something that is just out of reach? Are you ready to quit and need a little encouragement? Are you the one shouting encouragement to others? Where is your cheering team?
Thursday night, I was feeling fine. Monday night, I'm back at the second mile marker needing some encouragement as I go about the task of setting new goals for the next race.
Thinking about goals,
Lisa
Sunday, July 14, 2013
Day 230: Ready for Race 2?
Day 230 - 38.29 total km
Ready for Race number 2? After tonight's run, I do believe I am!
Ready for Race number 2? After tonight's run, I do believe I am!
Daisy and I did a little prerace run along the race course tonight and ended the night with a glass of chocolate milk. It was a great night to run. Hot, but not too much humidity and the hint of a breeze coming through the trees. We finished in just over 46 minutes and my goal for Thursdays race is to finish in 45 minutes. I think I am actually going to make it!
The other great thing about tonight was I finally found my rhythm. For about the 1/2 mile to 3/4 mile, I so wanted to quite. My body was refusing to work and my brain was not convinced running was a good idea. Then, all of a sudden, everything fell into place. My body stopped protesting and my brain decided this was a great idea. That is until around the 2 1/2 mile marker. Around that point all I can think about where on earth is the finish line! (I swear it moves just to mess with me.)
Anyway, now to rest up for Thursday's race! Good luck to all those racing this week!
Lisa
Saturday, June 22, 2013
Day 208: It's Muggy Out There!
Day 208:
It has been two hundred eight days since I started my running journey. So far, it has been great! I wish now that I had kept better track of how many miles/km I have run since starting. A friend did introduce me a website called DailyMile.com. I started using the site to track my runs about a month ago and have logged about 23km since then. So, I think I will start putting my total km/miles on here too.
OK, so it's muggy out there! Yes it is June. Late June to be precise. The summer solstice to boot. So yeah, it was hot and muggy on today's run. This is notable since I have never run in the summer time. Running in the heat is new to me.
I have done my homework though.
All the articles say to run in the morning. Did that Wednesday and it was great!
The articles say to drink lots of water before, during, and after your run. Still working on that one. (I don't like to have to go to the bathroom and if you drink, water especially, then you end up going to the bathroom a lot.)
The article say to pace yourself. If it is hot, adjust your run by going slower or running a shorter distance. Not sure I could run slower or go a shorter distance without just walking around the block and calling that a run.
So, what have we learned? It is hot, muggy, and I have some work to do on following directions/advice from long-time runners.
Well, I guess I had better learn these lessons fast since my next race is on July 18th.
See you on the road!
Lisa
It has been two hundred eight days since I started my running journey. So far, it has been great! I wish now that I had kept better track of how many miles/km I have run since starting. A friend did introduce me a website called DailyMile.com. I started using the site to track my runs about a month ago and have logged about 23km since then. So, I think I will start putting my total km/miles on here too.
OK, so it's muggy out there! Yes it is June. Late June to be precise. The summer solstice to boot. So yeah, it was hot and muggy on today's run. This is notable since I have never run in the summer time. Running in the heat is new to me.
I have done my homework though.
All the articles say to run in the morning. Did that Wednesday and it was great!
The articles say to drink lots of water before, during, and after your run. Still working on that one. (I don't like to have to go to the bathroom and if you drink, water especially, then you end up going to the bathroom a lot.)
The article say to pace yourself. If it is hot, adjust your run by going slower or running a shorter distance. Not sure I could run slower or go a shorter distance without just walking around the block and calling that a run.
So, what have we learned? It is hot, muggy, and I have some work to do on following directions/advice from long-time runners.
Well, I guess I had better learn these lessons fast since my next race is on July 18th.
See you on the road!
Lisa
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
Day 170: Glorious Chocolate Milk
Day 170:
Yes, you read the title correctly. I haven't had chocolate milk for a long time because I thought it wouldn't be "as healthy" as regular milk. But, a trainer told me that chocolate milk is great to drink after a workout. So, after running 4.5 km tonight, I drank a large glass of chocolate milk.
Let me tell you, that was the best drink I have ever had after a run! I felt energized instead of drained. My taste buds did a little dance and my tummy didn't scream for a snack. It was great! I think I will drink chocolate milk after a run more often.
Oh, and did you notice that I logged my run in kilometers instead of miles? Yeah, I got a new runners watch with a better GPS signal than my phone. Only problem is that I have yet to figure out how to change the setting from km to mi or how to read my pace accurately. Guess I'll have to run some more so I have a reason to play with my watch more.
Drinking chocolate milk again,
Lisa
Yes, you read the title correctly. I haven't had chocolate milk for a long time because I thought it wouldn't be "as healthy" as regular milk. But, a trainer told me that chocolate milk is great to drink after a workout. So, after running 4.5 km tonight, I drank a large glass of chocolate milk.
Let me tell you, that was the best drink I have ever had after a run! I felt energized instead of drained. My taste buds did a little dance and my tummy didn't scream for a snack. It was great! I think I will drink chocolate milk after a run more often.
Oh, and did you notice that I logged my run in kilometers instead of miles? Yeah, I got a new runners watch with a better GPS signal than my phone. Only problem is that I have yet to figure out how to change the setting from km to mi or how to read my pace accurately. Guess I'll have to run some more so I have a reason to play with my watch more.
Drinking chocolate milk again,
Lisa
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
Day 169: Running in the Dark
Day 169:
Running in the quickly fading light is what I ended up doing tonight. I don't know about you, but I enjoy running in the evening more than running in the morning. In the evening, I don't have to worry about being done in time to shower and get to work or being done in time to drive someone to school.
In the morning, I have to drag myself out of bed. Running in the morning feels like a chore that I "have to do." I don't want running to ever be a chore. I want to always enjoy running.
The only problem with running in the evening is that I sometimes run out of light. So, as long as I remember to get out before the light fades, I will continue to enjoy my evening runs. Sure wish more races were in the evening.
Running at sunset,
Lisa
Running in the quickly fading light is what I ended up doing tonight. I don't know about you, but I enjoy running in the evening more than running in the morning. In the evening, I don't have to worry about being done in time to shower and get to work or being done in time to drive someone to school.
In the morning, I have to drag myself out of bed. Running in the morning feels like a chore that I "have to do." I don't want running to ever be a chore. I want to always enjoy running.
The only problem with running in the evening is that I sometimes run out of light. So, as long as I remember to get out before the light fades, I will continue to enjoy my evening runs. Sure wish more races were in the evening.
Running at sunset,
Lisa
Saturday, May 11, 2013
Day 166: Goals?
Day 166: Goals?
I spent last weekend basking in the glorious triumph of having my butt kicked by two hills and a suspension bridge in my first 5k race. The original plan was to take two days off and then start running again. My sinuses had different ideas.
So, today was my first run in a week. Wow, a whole week has gone by without me running at all and I don't think it was just because of my sinuses. I realized this week that I met my initial goal of running a 5k without ever setting any new goals.
I spent last weekend basking in the glorious triumph of having my butt kicked by two hills and a suspension bridge in my first 5k race. The original plan was to take two days off and then start running again. My sinuses had different ideas.
So, today was my first run in a week. Wow, a whole week has gone by without me running at all and I don't think it was just because of my sinuses. I realized this week that I met my initial goal of running a 5k without ever setting any new goals.
What kind of goal should I set? Do I focus on distance? Speed? Weight loss? Running consistently and pain free? What kind of a time limit should I set for meeting my goal?
With all these questions running through my head, I did the only sensible thing - perused Facebook. Since starting my journey started last fall, I have found and joined some pretty fabulous Facebook pages about running, but it was a fitness page that gave me the answers I was searching for.
The Facebook page Get Fit With Blake issued a plank challenge for the month of May that I took on along with my running. I printed the calendar and have it hanging on the fridge. Every day, I hold the plank for the specified amount of time and then cross off that day on the calendar.
I thought, if this works for core strengthening exercises, why wouldn't it work for running? Not wanting to wait for June to start a running plan, I issued myself a 30-Day Running Challenge.
But again, what is the goal other than running?
Long term: I want to lose about 60 pounds and drop two dress sizes, plus run a 10k by this time next year. Now, losing weight is very difficult and the only time I was successful, I had to workout six times a week for 45-60 mins. a day.
Applying this formula to running, I set some short term goals. For the next 30 days, I will run six times a week. Some of the runs are short, some are long, and once a week I focus on speed. Finally, I will schedule my next 5k race before the 30 day challenge ends.
This morning, I ran two and a half miles of the hardest part of last weeks 5k. I was not going to let those hills get the best of me!
Day one down 29 more to go!
Lisa
Saturday, May 4, 2013
Day 159: Race Day!
Day 159:
Race Day dawned beautiful and cool this morning. I woke up with a stuffy nose for the third day in a row. Butterflies floated in my stomach and fought each other even more after arriving at registration. It looked like there would be 75-100 runners. Less than 50 of us made it to the starting line. My bib number was 92 and the highest number I saw was 150.
The race started and by the end of the first mile, I was in last place. By the time I got to the water station, I could no longer see the rest of the runners. Two steep hills and a bridge later, I finally reached the turn around point. It was nice watching the others runners go past and give hi-fives.
The way back was hard and I needed to walk three times for a short distance. But just as I was running out of steam, I see a bright yellow poster up ahead that says. "Go Lisa!" Standing there are both my boys and two of their friends cheering me on. That was great! Just what I needed at just the right moment.
The four of them ran with me until the finish line was in sight. That's when I saw my Daisy, my running buddy and another friend with a sign. Daisy took a few pictures of me running with my cheerleaders, then ran the rest of the way in cheering me on. It was awesome!
I knew through the entire race that I would be last by quite a bit. There just weren't enough runners and the walkers went an entirely different direction for me to have any hope of keeping up with someone. But the point of the race wasn't for me to place or win any medals, it was for me to finish.
I have worked hard over the last several months to be able to run this race. Thank you to all those who stood by me and cheered me on to the finish line.
Oh, by the way, my time was 48:17. Now, I have a record to break and a new race to plan for. Hmmm, I wonder what it will be?
Running to finish,
Lisa
PS. I have tried all afternoon to post the race pictures here with no luck so visit my facebook page to see them. https://www.facebook.com/lisa.s.butler.9?ref=tn_tnmn
Race Day dawned beautiful and cool this morning. I woke up with a stuffy nose for the third day in a row. Butterflies floated in my stomach and fought each other even more after arriving at registration. It looked like there would be 75-100 runners. Less than 50 of us made it to the starting line. My bib number was 92 and the highest number I saw was 150.
The race started and by the end of the first mile, I was in last place. By the time I got to the water station, I could no longer see the rest of the runners. Two steep hills and a bridge later, I finally reached the turn around point. It was nice watching the others runners go past and give hi-fives.
The way back was hard and I needed to walk three times for a short distance. But just as I was running out of steam, I see a bright yellow poster up ahead that says. "Go Lisa!" Standing there are both my boys and two of their friends cheering me on. That was great! Just what I needed at just the right moment.
The four of them ran with me until the finish line was in sight. That's when I saw my Daisy, my running buddy and another friend with a sign. Daisy took a few pictures of me running with my cheerleaders, then ran the rest of the way in cheering me on. It was awesome!
I knew through the entire race that I would be last by quite a bit. There just weren't enough runners and the walkers went an entirely different direction for me to have any hope of keeping up with someone. But the point of the race wasn't for me to place or win any medals, it was for me to finish.
I have worked hard over the last several months to be able to run this race. Thank you to all those who stood by me and cheered me on to the finish line.
Oh, by the way, my time was 48:17. Now, I have a record to break and a new race to plan for. Hmmm, I wonder what it will be?
Running to finish,
Lisa
PS. I have tried all afternoon to post the race pictures here with no luck so visit my facebook page to see them. https://www.facebook.com/lisa.s.butler.9?ref=tn_tnmn
Wednesday, May 1, 2013
Day 156: Buddies
Day 156:
Tonight I walked/ran with Daisy, my running buddy. We went a total of 3.49 miles. Granted we walked about half of it, but when we ran, we really ran. Daisy thought she would be able to walk fast while I jogged. That didn't happen.
I decided tonight that I would try to lengthen my stride. Daisy mentioned an article she read this afternoon that talked about how lengthening your stride was better and helped prevent injuries. (I didn't know that.) So, I thought I would try it out and therefore Daisy had to run with me.
Now the fun didn't stop there. Since she had to run, she pushed me to run harder and I was left gasping like a fish. And I did it! She clocked me at around a 12 minute mile! Granted I couldn't breathe, but wow! That's the fastest I've ever run!
Thanks Daisy!
I am finding out that it really pays to run with a buddy. Lately, this seems to be a topic God has been trying to pound into my head. Life is better with a friend.
Ecclesiastes 4:10
Tonight I walked/ran with Daisy, my running buddy. We went a total of 3.49 miles. Granted we walked about half of it, but when we ran, we really ran. Daisy thought she would be able to walk fast while I jogged. That didn't happen.
I decided tonight that I would try to lengthen my stride. Daisy mentioned an article she read this afternoon that talked about how lengthening your stride was better and helped prevent injuries. (I didn't know that.) So, I thought I would try it out and therefore Daisy had to run with me.
Now the fun didn't stop there. Since she had to run, she pushed me to run harder and I was left gasping like a fish. And I did it! She clocked me at around a 12 minute mile! Granted I couldn't breathe, but wow! That's the fastest I've ever run!
Thanks Daisy!
I am finding out that it really pays to run with a buddy. Lately, this seems to be a topic God has been trying to pound into my head. Life is better with a friend.
Ecclesiastes 4:10
"If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble."
I know that I have a lot of friends. According to Facebook, I have 414 friends, but how many of them would be there to pick me up if I fell? Yes, they may "Like" my posts and a few of them might leave a comment, but how many would pick up the phone to learn what's going on beyond the post? How many of these "friends" would come over and talk?
My Ecclesiastes 4:10 friends is a much smaller number. So, during the rough times I need to learn to leave a post on Facebook, then call an Ecclesiastes 4:10 friend to share what is really going on.
The real question is: Do you have an Ecclesiastes 4:10 friend?
I do. They're the ones pushing me during my runs, telling me to breathe when I panic, handing me Kleenex while I grieve, and laughing at my lame jokes.
Thanks Friends!
Lisa
Sunday, April 28, 2013
Day 153: Pressing On
Day 153:
Well, I ran 2 miles on Wednesday night and then about a mile and a half tonight. My race is next Saturday and thanks to all the encouragement from friends, I think I'm ready. Sort of.
As I have mentioned, this journey in running has not been easy. Lately, the emotional struggles have been the most difficult. This week though, my two boys have provided the lessons I needed to move past my fears.
Both boys run track and after several cancelled meets due to rain, they were more than ready for race day. My oldest runs the 400 and the 4 by 4. He has never been fast, but was setting personal records (PR) during every meet. My youngest runs the 400, 4 by 4, and the mile and was also setting PR's at every meet.
That is until Thursday. On Thursday, my oldest (a high schooler) was competing in his third track meet of the week and so while still running a decent time didn't set any new records. He wasn't upset. He knew he ran well and he knew that after three meets, he was tired.
Same day, my youngest (a junior higher) was competing in his second meet of the week and ran the mile 30 seconds slower than his PR. He came home upset. He declared, once again, that he was NEVER running the mile again. He wanted to run the 800 instead. He didn't understand why his coach kept insisting that he run the mile since he obviously is not any good at it. (His PR in the mile is 6:22. My PR is 14:34. I know why his coach wants him to run the mile. He's good.)
Like a good mom, I spent several hours trying to talk to him. I reminded him that he has only done three races AND shaved a whole minute off his time between the first two. What I wasn't expecting after this meltdown was our run today.
Today, he wanted to run with me. He wanted to practice his sprints and get an extra run in before track practice starts again this week. Yes, he is still upset about having to run the mile, but he is excited about running with his mom. He is excited about watching his mom run her first race. And if you push the subject, he is excited about having to run.
So, what's the lesson you ask? Simple my dear Grasshopper. Setbacks happen. Disappointments happen. What matters is what you do about those setbacks and disappointments. I can shrug them off as a bad day like my oldest and just bask in the satisfaction of completing a race. I can get upset and stomp my feet and declare that I am never ever running again. (Mine and my youngest's default setting.) Or I can do what my youngest and I did today and get up and just run.
Tonight, I am working on letting those bad days, those bad runs, roll off my back so I can get up tomorrow and run again.
Running again and always,
Lisa
Well, I ran 2 miles on Wednesday night and then about a mile and a half tonight. My race is next Saturday and thanks to all the encouragement from friends, I think I'm ready. Sort of.
As I have mentioned, this journey in running has not been easy. Lately, the emotional struggles have been the most difficult. This week though, my two boys have provided the lessons I needed to move past my fears.
Both boys run track and after several cancelled meets due to rain, they were more than ready for race day. My oldest runs the 400 and the 4 by 4. He has never been fast, but was setting personal records (PR) during every meet. My youngest runs the 400, 4 by 4, and the mile and was also setting PR's at every meet.
That is until Thursday. On Thursday, my oldest (a high schooler) was competing in his third track meet of the week and so while still running a decent time didn't set any new records. He wasn't upset. He knew he ran well and he knew that after three meets, he was tired.
Same day, my youngest (a junior higher) was competing in his second meet of the week and ran the mile 30 seconds slower than his PR. He came home upset. He declared, once again, that he was NEVER running the mile again. He wanted to run the 800 instead. He didn't understand why his coach kept insisting that he run the mile since he obviously is not any good at it. (His PR in the mile is 6:22. My PR is 14:34. I know why his coach wants him to run the mile. He's good.)
Like a good mom, I spent several hours trying to talk to him. I reminded him that he has only done three races AND shaved a whole minute off his time between the first two. What I wasn't expecting after this meltdown was our run today.
Today, he wanted to run with me. He wanted to practice his sprints and get an extra run in before track practice starts again this week. Yes, he is still upset about having to run the mile, but he is excited about running with his mom. He is excited about watching his mom run her first race. And if you push the subject, he is excited about having to run.
So, what's the lesson you ask? Simple my dear Grasshopper. Setbacks happen. Disappointments happen. What matters is what you do about those setbacks and disappointments. I can shrug them off as a bad day like my oldest and just bask in the satisfaction of completing a race. I can get upset and stomp my feet and declare that I am never ever running again. (Mine and my youngest's default setting.) Or I can do what my youngest and I did today and get up and just run.
Tonight, I am working on letting those bad days, those bad runs, roll off my back so I can get up tomorrow and run again.
Running again and always,
Lisa
Sunday, April 21, 2013
Day 146: Fear
Day 146:
I ran about 2 miles today and one second faster than Tuesday (still hanging out in the 15 minute mile range though). Running was easier today. I think that I could have pushed a little harder though. Maybe run farther or run faster.
Maybe.
So, what is holding me back?
Fear.
I am afraid of re-injuring my joints. I am afraid of not being able to run my first race in May. I am afraid of not being able to run the full 3.2 miles on race day. I am afraid of running 3.2 miles before race day (reference the first fear and Journal entry Day 1). I am afraid of coming in last at the race. I am afraid no one will cheer me on. I am afraid everyone will go home before I finish the race. I am afraid...
This is something I was not prepared for when I took up running. Years ago, I vowed that I would not be afraid; no one or nothing will ever have that kind of power over me again. Now, I am afraid. Not scared enough to stop running, but scared enough to not put forth my best foot.
So, how does one move past this fear? In the past, I used knowledge. I learned everything I could about the things I was afraid of. This time knowledge is not going to work. This time, I need people. I need a team of people running with me, cheering me on, and pushing me forward.
I need a team and I am afraid to ask for one. Afraid of hearing the word, "no." Afraid of not being good enough of a runner to keep up with the group. Afraid of being left behind when everyone excels and I don't.
Wow, there's that fear again!
Maybe tomorrow I will start to assemble my team. I need them. I need to face my fears. As you run today, say a prayer for me. "God help me to face my fears and run the race before me."
Hoping to run without fear,
Lisa
I ran about 2 miles today and one second faster than Tuesday (still hanging out in the 15 minute mile range though). Running was easier today. I think that I could have pushed a little harder though. Maybe run farther or run faster.
Maybe.
So, what is holding me back?
Fear.
I am afraid of re-injuring my joints. I am afraid of not being able to run my first race in May. I am afraid of not being able to run the full 3.2 miles on race day. I am afraid of running 3.2 miles before race day (reference the first fear and Journal entry Day 1). I am afraid of coming in last at the race. I am afraid no one will cheer me on. I am afraid everyone will go home before I finish the race. I am afraid...
This is something I was not prepared for when I took up running. Years ago, I vowed that I would not be afraid; no one or nothing will ever have that kind of power over me again. Now, I am afraid. Not scared enough to stop running, but scared enough to not put forth my best foot.
So, how does one move past this fear? In the past, I used knowledge. I learned everything I could about the things I was afraid of. This time knowledge is not going to work. This time, I need people. I need a team of people running with me, cheering me on, and pushing me forward.
I need a team and I am afraid to ask for one. Afraid of hearing the word, "no." Afraid of not being good enough of a runner to keep up with the group. Afraid of being left behind when everyone excels and I don't.
Wow, there's that fear again!
Maybe tomorrow I will start to assemble my team. I need them. I need to face my fears. As you run today, say a prayer for me. "God help me to face my fears and run the race before me."
Hoping to run without fear,
Lisa
Tuesday, April 16, 2013
Day 141: I'm Back!
Day 141:
Wow! I can't believe that it has been over three months since I have written anything. A lot has happened during that time; some good, some bad. Let's start with some of the good.
In my last post, I mentioned needing an MRI on my ankle. Everything came back swollen, but good. No surgery. I then returned to physical therapy and continued to work my butt off. However, I was still pretty upset by my lack of progress. So, my therapist and I started looking for other ways to improve my ankle strength and support my high arch. It turns out that a different insole and a little Kinesio taping was all I needed. My last physical therapy session was on March 21st. Hooray!
Now, for the tough stuff that has made writing difficult. After writing my last blog post, I cried. I was scared and depressed about the possibility of surgery. Then I was upset by my lack of progress. Just as a solution was found and I began to feel hopeful about running again, a true tragedy struck my family. Both my sons lost friends and classmates in a tragic car accident that killed four teens about a month ago. Just as I was beginning to feel confident in my running and ready to write again, I found my family and myself consumed by grief.
Yesterday, the grief was renewed with the tragic events at the Boston Marathon just days after the one month anniversary of so much loss in my family. My heart breaks for those who lost loved ones yesterday and it breaks again for those who were injured. I know there will be stories of triumph over tragedy and I hope that many of those injured take on the challenge of learning to run despite missing limbs.
With all that said, I did run today in honor of those injured. It was cold and rain threatened during the entire run. I started out tired from lack of sleep and sore from my run on Sunday. So, it was a short run of only a mile and a half as well as a slow run averaging almost 16 mins. a mile. But that's OK because today I ran.
That's really what this is all about: running. Learning to run the race God has set before you (me), running it well and finishing it well.
My race has only just begun!
Lisa
Wow! I can't believe that it has been over three months since I have written anything. A lot has happened during that time; some good, some bad. Let's start with some of the good.
In my last post, I mentioned needing an MRI on my ankle. Everything came back swollen, but good. No surgery. I then returned to physical therapy and continued to work my butt off. However, I was still pretty upset by my lack of progress. So, my therapist and I started looking for other ways to improve my ankle strength and support my high arch. It turns out that a different insole and a little Kinesio taping was all I needed. My last physical therapy session was on March 21st. Hooray!
Now, for the tough stuff that has made writing difficult. After writing my last blog post, I cried. I was scared and depressed about the possibility of surgery. Then I was upset by my lack of progress. Just as a solution was found and I began to feel hopeful about running again, a true tragedy struck my family. Both my sons lost friends and classmates in a tragic car accident that killed four teens about a month ago. Just as I was beginning to feel confident in my running and ready to write again, I found my family and myself consumed by grief.
Yesterday, the grief was renewed with the tragic events at the Boston Marathon just days after the one month anniversary of so much loss in my family. My heart breaks for those who lost loved ones yesterday and it breaks again for those who were injured. I know there will be stories of triumph over tragedy and I hope that many of those injured take on the challenge of learning to run despite missing limbs.
With all that said, I did run today in honor of those injured. It was cold and rain threatened during the entire run. I started out tired from lack of sleep and sore from my run on Sunday. So, it was a short run of only a mile and a half as well as a slow run averaging almost 16 mins. a mile. But that's OK because today I ran.
That's really what this is all about: running. Learning to run the race God has set before you (me), running it well and finishing it well.
My race has only just begun!
Lisa
Monday, January 7, 2013
Day 42: Possible Set-back
Day 42:
Well, here we are in the middle of winter, just after the holidays, and I am still only running 60 seconds at a time. At my doctors appointment today, my doc expressed concerns about the slow progress. If I am not able to run without pain in the next two weeks, then we might be looking at surgery. Gotta tell ya, I'm a little nervous.
When I first injured my ankle, I had a feeling that I had torn something. Then my doctor said he didn't think that was the case and wanted to try PT first. Here I am after weeks of PT and still not running well. I can't help but wonder if maybe I really did tear something.
Maybe...
Between getting the flu and the holidays, maybe my body just needs more time. Or maybe I just need to work harder and do more. Maybe I haven't pushed myself hard enough to run.
Maybe...
At least my PT finally agreed to get me running on the treadmill during therapy. Now I feel better about trying to run on my own. Maybe this is really a turning point and not a setback. I did say that this time we were going to fix my ankle permanently.
Maybe...
Life is certainly full of maybes. So, instead of wondering and worrying, I will continue to work hard, follow the instructions of my PT and doctor, and get running.
Running later...maybe
Lisa
Well, here we are in the middle of winter, just after the holidays, and I am still only running 60 seconds at a time. At my doctors appointment today, my doc expressed concerns about the slow progress. If I am not able to run without pain in the next two weeks, then we might be looking at surgery. Gotta tell ya, I'm a little nervous.
When I first injured my ankle, I had a feeling that I had torn something. Then my doctor said he didn't think that was the case and wanted to try PT first. Here I am after weeks of PT and still not running well. I can't help but wonder if maybe I really did tear something.
Maybe...
Between getting the flu and the holidays, maybe my body just needs more time. Or maybe I just need to work harder and do more. Maybe I haven't pushed myself hard enough to run.
Maybe...
At least my PT finally agreed to get me running on the treadmill during therapy. Now I feel better about trying to run on my own. Maybe this is really a turning point and not a setback. I did say that this time we were going to fix my ankle permanently.
Maybe...
Life is certainly full of maybes. So, instead of wondering and worrying, I will continue to work hard, follow the instructions of my PT and doctor, and get running.
Running later...maybe
Lisa
Tuesday, January 1, 2013
Day 36: Resolutions
Day 36:
Resolutions: Have you made yours? Was it to quit some bad habit? To start a good habit? Lose weight?
Resolutions: How long do you think it will last? One week? Two? A month maybe?
I decided a long time ago to quit making resolutions because I couldn't keep them. Then last year I got bullied (by my kids) to make one. So, I did. I resolved to be healthier in 2012. This resolution was kept because I made smaller goals to go with it. Goal: Join an exercise class. Skip the fries a couple of times. Drink more water.
For 2013, I resolve to be disciplined. My goals include running regularly starting at three times a week (PT counts as a run for now), reading the Bible regularly, and making time for two hobbies that often get left out of my schedule.
In 364 days, I hope to be able to say I kept my resolution for 2013 and even met some of my goals. Stayed tuned and I will keep you posted as to how I'm doing.
New year, new start, new run.
Lisa
Resolutions: Have you made yours? Was it to quit some bad habit? To start a good habit? Lose weight?
Resolutions: How long do you think it will last? One week? Two? A month maybe?
I decided a long time ago to quit making resolutions because I couldn't keep them. Then last year I got bullied (by my kids) to make one. So, I did. I resolved to be healthier in 2012. This resolution was kept because I made smaller goals to go with it. Goal: Join an exercise class. Skip the fries a couple of times. Drink more water.
For 2013, I resolve to be disciplined. My goals include running regularly starting at three times a week (PT counts as a run for now), reading the Bible regularly, and making time for two hobbies that often get left out of my schedule.
In 364 days, I hope to be able to say I kept my resolution for 2013 and even met some of my goals. Stayed tuned and I will keep you posted as to how I'm doing.
New year, new start, new run.
Lisa
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