Running

Three Races One Week

R. Wallen, R.N.1 Comment

Seriously?  Is this post for real, you’re wondering.  THREE races in one week?  Um, yeah, I’m totally serious, and I totally did it.  A 10K, and two half-marathons back to back … I know, who does that?  Not “normal” people … I’m not a “normal” person, so, I did it.

Let’s start from the beginning, or the first race …

Monday, May 30, 2011 … The Inaugural Stockton Rotary Run.  I picked up the pamphlet on this run while at Fleet Feet Stockton, picking up something.  I’m always at Fleet Feet, so it’s not a surprise that I can’t remember what I was there for.  I think it was for Chris’ packet pickup for The Avenue Of The Vines Half.  I remember perusing the pamphlet, and thinking that I worked the Sunday before the race on Monday Morning so I wasn’t initially going to run it.  I ended up signing up probably while half asleep because I still wasn’t thinking that I would run a race after working all night.  It wouldn’t be the first time though.  With that I tried to recruit as many people as possible to run with me … It was for a good cause – Run to Eradicate Polio.  I know … Polio?  Yes.  Polio.  Not all third world countries have eradicated this disease, and it still afflicts many children rendering them with paralysis.  Read about polio here.

The race was to be held Memorial Day Monday morning.  This normally would not be an issue, except for the fact that I will have worked all weekend long … and this included the Sunday night before the race.  12 hours, on my feet.  Hmmmm.  I’ve done it before, just not to where I’m cutting it so close.  Start time was 0800, and I get off work at 0730 and I work about 20 minutes away … Yeah.  Lucky for me, although the night was busy,  I was able to  leave work a few minutes early and hightail it over to the race start.  The running/race Gods were with me … because there was no traffic, and parking was not an issue!

Linda and I ... =)
Panda Girl Erika, Linda, and I ... Pre race.

I met my running buddy, Linda V., at Starbucks by the movie theater.  She had a last minute race cancellation on Saturday, so she decided to run with me that morning.  My friend, Erica decided at the last minute to run also, so she met us close to the start because she needed to finish registering.

This was an inaugural race.  Usually, that word “inaugural” is synonymous with “lots of issues.”  That day, I found none.  It was cool, but not freezing cold.  We were greeted warmly by Fleet Feet owner, Tony Vice, and by the director of On Your Mark Events.  The opening speech by Kerry Kreuger was inspiring, as was the countdown to the start by a woman stricken with polio as a child.  It was nice to know that the race was put on to raise funds for a good cause.  This race had a 5 and a 10K … I had signed up to run the 10K.  Eek!

The race for me, was actually not a bad race.  The course is FLAT as can be, and it’s part of other courses of races that I had run in downtown Stockton before, so it was slightly familiar.  It started at DeCarli Square, right in front of the movie theater between El Dorado and Center Streets.  Surprisingly, I was “awake” and ready to run.  Running a 10K is different from running a 5K or a half marathon.  It’s not quite all out balls to the walls, and it still must be run somewhat conservatively.  Per Squatch’s advice, I was to warm-up with the first mile, then progressively get faster.  I was not to look at mileage, but at time.  (i.e., I can run this in an hour. Only 1o minutes left.  Etc.)

It was a double loop run … but I didn’t feel too bad.  Erika and I ran together for the first three miles.  She’s faster than I am so I was pacing with her, trying to keep up with her, but something happened after we laughed and waved at the Good Day Sacramento Camera man … She started to fall behind.  Not far behind, but she was no longer beside me, and I was still running thinking the whole time that she would eventually blow by me.  At mile 3.5 my goal was to start targeting people and catch up to them and/or eventually pass them.  I waved to Erika to get her to get her back up beside me.  She was close, but I was alone in my game of cat and mouse.  I felt good, and I felt strong, so I just kept going.  At mile 5 I  knew that I had to gun it … so with each person that I caught up to, I encouraged them to come with me.  Only one did, and he raced me to the finish where I encouraged him to GO!  Literally as soon as crossed the finish line, I had an overwhelming sensation of needing to hurl!  That’s my indicator that I know I pushed hard.  My friend Linda caught my finish on video … super cool.  I need to figure out how to upload it …

Best part of the entire race … placing third in my age group.  I got BLING, baby!  In this race, bling only goes to the top 3 finishers in each age group.  It was a nice surprise!  10K, 55 minutes!

Race number 2.  Half marathon.  Saturday 04 June, 2011.  Brazen Racing’s Nitro Trail Half Marathon.  Mac and I registered for this race in February after the New Year’s Half marathon that we ran.  We enjoyed that one so we thought we’d run another.  Little did we know that June’s weather would be similar to that of our New Year’s Half.   Wow.

Too bad this wasn't on the registration ...
Running BFFs!

Pinole, California is located close to Richmond, in the Bay Area.  It’s a beautiful area.  I was thankful that my friend, Erika Rae offered to drive as I felt bad asking Chris to take the day off for me.  So off we went in Erika’s van  – Erika, her friends that she was able to convince to run, Cindy, and Christina, and my friend Judy.  We made it to Pinole with about 30 minutes to spare … enough time to use the portapotties and to grab our race bibs.  Whew!  I caught up with my running BFF, Mac, and our friend Mel just in time.  Thank God!  It was cold, and drizzly at the start, but it was all good.

We all started together.  It was funny how we all laughed at the lady who suggested that we take a course map along with “a plastic baggie to keep it warm.”  Huh?  The map?  What about us?!  Really?  The course was literally loops – one little, two med, or two of each … Ah, I can’t remember!  We lost Judy and Mel, then Erika by mile 3.  It was

"Look! Camera! Let's start running!"

Mac and I together for the remainder of the run which was fine by us.  We were just running to run and to be together.  Plus, that course wasn’t easy with the weather conditions, multiple loops causing dizziness, and some hills.  Seriously … mile 3 was uphill into a headwind. Mile 5 was severe wind blowing from the left side.  There were multiple muddy parts that we were lucky not to slide into or slip.  The best part?  Having to do it again …

Mac and I spend a lot of time catching up.  I love my Mac, she’s an awesome running BFF.  I don’t get to see her nearly enough, but I hear from her at least once a day!

The trail run was nice.  It started POURING buckets by mile 11 until the finish!  We walked a little here and there, enjoyed the scenery, and the company.  We love Brazen Racing.  They have the best aid stations – always smiling volunteers, lots of water, Gu, gummy bears, cookies, chips … seriously, at every aid station.  Mac and I finished at about the 2:30 mark.  This was an improvement from our New Year’s half which was almost 3 hours!  Lol!

And lastly … Race #3 … See Jane Run, Alameda, CA.  Sunday 05 June 2011.

This race was a crazy idea that I had while on the spin bike next to Erika Rae.  What was I thinking?  I don’t believe that I was thinking.  I believe that I was oxygen deprived.  She was telling me how she was not going to be able to run for the next 3 months and how she was gonna miss running, etc.  So I blurted out, “Well, let’s finish it off with a BANG and run a back to back!”  I was kidding, but again, I wasn’t.  Usually my mouth thinks faster than my mind does and it usually speak the truth.  So I’m sure that this was not an error on the part of my brain that controls the part of my tongue that gets bitten when it wants to say something stupid!  I already decided I was “IN” and registered that day after talking it over with my hubby who thought it was a good idea.  What?  Erika was not in … she had another obligation that she had already comitted to do.  However at the last minute … something happened and she was able to go.  So she registered at the last minute, and we headed off to packet pick up Saturday after our trail half.

Since Pinole, CA and Alameda, CA are close together, I thought for sure we’d have more of the same weather that we had on Saturday … I was prepared with a rain jacket, hat, etc.  Thankfully though, it was gorgeous, beautiful weather.  In fact, it was even a little hot in the mid 60s!  We both took separate cars since our hubbys and youngest children came along, and we were both LATE for different reasons.  (Note:  Erika and I both run on the same schedule, and we are chronically late individuals.  Together we make a great team, but, geez, we have to get our Filipino and Mexican timing down in the future!)

We arrived at the venue with a few minutes to spare.  I had enough time to run to the bathroom, then find Erika.  Once we found each other, we had enough time to sprint to the start.  Starting at the back of the pack is not normally our deal, because we despise weaving in and out of walkers, etc., but at this point we really had no choice.  We were both slightly tired from our run the previous day, so we were happy to mill along at a somewhat slower pace.  (Her “slow” is my gasping, just so you know.)

For the entire run we were basically side by side which was nice.  We did minimal talking because, well, for me, I was trying to “conserve” my energy.  The course was basically flat, and the scenery wasn’t dismal, but it wasn’t all that exciting except when we got out by the water.  A lot of people complained about running thru the industrial part of town, but it was such a small part of the course.  I grew up in Alameda.  I love that town, and I wish that I could spend some time there just getting reacquainted and visiting old stomping grounds.  Getting back to the run itself though, I felt as if I was holding Erika back.  I felt as if she could have gone much faster, and she should have.  She should not have “waited” for me, but for some reason, I don’t believe that she was.  Her goal is never to “just finish.”  Erika Rae is super uber competitive … she kicks ass all the time.  But she stuck by me for the entire time.  We finished within seconds of each other which was awesome.  She had a mean kick, and my strides are so much shorter … lol!

Haulin' a$$ to the finish ...

I have to say that the weather was perfect.  Had we not been so tired, I am sure that we both could’ve PR’d with this race!  We had fun though.  We spent some time milling around the post-race expo collecting freebies and our champange glasses filled with chocolate.

One complaint that I have was that there was no accessible water at the finish … we had to stand in line.  Seriously?  Water should have been handed out at the finish along with our medals!!!  The line for water and food post-race was LONG and moving slowly!  Geez!  Also, some of the medals that people received were not the correct medals for the race that they had run.  Meaning that some individuals who ran the half got a 5K medal, and vice versa!

I have to give Erika Rae props!  She ran the exact three races that I ran and did a rockin’ kick ass job

RowCoon and The Panda Girl

gettin’ it done.  She is one of the very few individuals who will help me execute some crazy ideas!!!  Let me tell you, I have some really off the wall ideas and she never (well, hardly ever) tells me that I’m insane, she usually eggs me on to get me to think of more.  Oh, but don’t let think that I’m alone in this, she has some crazy ideas herself, and she is just as OCD about working out as I am!  She’s an awesome workout partner … so THANK YOU, E-Rae! (I’m throwin’ gangsta signs at this point.)

Running back to back half marathons seems like cake now that I have done it, but in the past I never would have even imagined that running 13.1 miles would be a piece of cake, let alone on two days in a row.  What I have learned is that my body is pretty amazing.  I’ve learned that I am stronger than I believe that I am.  Running 13.1 miles …. pssssh!  I can do that in my sleep!  I know that it seems ridiculous to some, and unfathomable to others, but seriously, if I can do it, anyone can.  It’s a mind game.  You body, and those that you tell that you’re going to do it, will tell you that you’re insane … but if you believe that you can, then you WILL.  My mind told my body that it really didn’t have a choice, that it was going to do this, and then it told my body that it could, that it was an amazing machine … and my body followed the instructions of my mind, believed it, then performed!  Your mind is a powerful thing … and where your mind goes, where your thoughts go, your body will follow.  Don’t ever believe that you can’t because you CAN … you just don’t want to!

Bling Bling, Baby ...

Three races … one week … DONE!

Fresno Eye-Q Half Marathon

R. Wallen, R.N.Leave a comment

It’s been a busy month for me, this month of May.  I opened my eyes and it’s just about over now as we are in its last full week!  Wow!  So much to write, so little time.

Last weekend was my second half for the month for me.  (Since I’m a very S L O W blogger, it’s now 3 weekends ago!)  I’d never really done that before.   I take that back, I have, just not “formally” as in signing up for a race.  I’ve logged as many as 150 miles/month, so running 2 13.1 mile races is a piece of cake!  I haven’t done it in the past because it can wreck havoc on a family schedule and also a schedule in which one works every other weekend.  However, one race was a “must run,” while the other one was one in which I had the opportunity to see my college boy, and spend the weekend meeting new Twitter friends, and seeing an “old” one.  Win/Win!!

Fresno … Ah, what’s good to say about Fresno?  Probably not much as I live in it’s cousin city, Stockton.  That’s another blog in itself, so we’ll save that for another day.  Fresno is located in the middle of California’s Central Valley, and I didn’t realize that it was so HUGE!  I mean HUGE!  It has a population of about half a million people for gosh sakes!  Yeah, that’s huge!  From what I know and have experienced of Fresno, it’s like any other California city … it has its good and bad points and parts.  I’m not a good one to comment as I have not really spent any real quality time there.  I know that it’s the home of the Fresno State Bulldogs (Go Dogs!), and that it’s HOT there.

I’m not sure how I even found this race.  Probably from my time spent trolling websites looking for races to run.  Wait, I remember … I was looking for biking events for my hubby to participate in as he’s new to biking and was looking for organized rides.  This particular race was made into an entire weekend … The Eye Q California Classic Weekend.  I thought it would be fun if my husband could ride on Saturday, and I could run the half on Sunday.  It ended up that I would be the only one participating as for some reason he didn’t sign up.  Oh well … that was okay with me.  I sent out the link to my friend, Linda, who spends a lot of time in Fresno and asked if she would consider running with me.  That link was consequently viewed by Penny (@southbaygirl) who convinced Kristy (@kristylpants) and a weekend was planned!

We left for Fresno on Saturday morning.  Uneventful drive, one short stop to get gas and some In and Out Burger  for some much needed fuel of a different source.  (Yeah, I know it’s not exactly the right source of nutrition, but the burgers are awesome and the french fries are to die for so bite me!)  One and half hours later we’re in Fresno looking for our hotel and getting lost in the not so finest part of town!  Good times for Chris and I  as he wants to throttle me more times than he let’s on as I am so NOT a good navigator!  In my defense, I have never claimed to be a good navigator, nor do I ever want to be.  The majority of the time on our road trips, I can be found sleeping in a reclined passenger seat, reading, or messin’ around with my iPhone.  If it’s truly a navigator that he wanted, then it’s what he got the Garmin for, right?  That’s my story and I’m stickin’ to it.

45 minutes later, we find the Holiday Inn that we’ve booked for the weekend, but it’s too early to check in.  We park in front of the Casino next door, and we head out to packet pick up at Chuckchansi Stadium … Home of the Fresno Grizzlies!  Really?  Yep, true story.

Chuckchansi Stadium - Home of the Fresno Grizzlies
Chillin' like a villian as I wait for Penny and Kristy.

Packet pick up was no expo …. just a very small event with a couple high school girls handing out bib numbers, and a few volunteers handing out the goodie bags and tech shirts.  I walk up to pick up mine, only to be informed that the only size shirt in womens that they have is a large!  What?  Are you kidding me?  When I registered, I requested a small shirt and you’re telling me that you only have a large?  Minor SNAFU … let it go.  It’s not like I wear my tech shirts anyway!  Penny and Kristy were close to arriving to Fresno, so I told them that I would wait.  No big deal.  I rummage through the goodie bag to find absolutely nothing exciting!  Lucky for me, Penny and Kristy arrived a few minutes later.  To me, it’s always such a nice feeling to meet people that I have been communicating with via Twitter and/or Facebook.  It reminds me so much of the pen pals that I had when I was a child, however, I have yet to meet them IRL (in real life).  After introductions, we head off to our Hotel – the Holiday Inn – which is within walking distance from the race start.

At the Holiday Inn Hotel Lobby - Impersonating Lonette the Clown from the Big Comfy Couch.

After we get settled, I call my son, Sam, who is a Junior at Fresno State University.  Penny, Kristy, and I had plans to meet up with our friend, Linda, later, so I suggested to Chris that we take Sam out to eat as I knew that he would be hungry.  He was.  We ended up walking around close to where we were staying and asked a Police Officer his suggestion for a good lunch spot … He suggested a sports bar up the way called     .  Good choice in terms of food, just the service was somewhat slow and, no, it was not busy at all.  We got caught up with Sam, and headed back to the hotel where I got ready to go to dinner (I know, I just ate), and Chris and Sam were to spend some time together doing what Sam enjoys … playing poker at a local casino.

Penny, Linda, Me, & Kristy
Five Restaurant, Fresno, CA
OMG! Carb loading at it's finest!

Dinner with Linda was at a restaurant called Five.  Italian fare, perfect for pre-race carb loading.  Linda was there, along with her “Harley Guy,” Bill.  Conversation was great, and the company was even better!  I ended up ordering a seafood pasta with red sauce which was absolutely delicious!  Alas, race day the next day was a bright and early 0700 so as much as we were having fun, it was time to head on back and get some rest.

No issues with me.  I got back, laid out my race outfit, and called it a night.

Race day.  Game face on!  Gah!  I had no “real” pre-race nutrition!  I did have a banana, and a coffee, but I was hoping for my usual bagel and peanut butter.  I had to make do with some of my left over pasta, and my banana and coffee, which seemed to satisfy me enough.  I get a text from Penny that they were ready to head out at 0615.  Perfect timing!  I’m ready to go!  The excitement between the three of us is evident.  We have our complimentary Punk Rock Racing gear on from our friend Ron (@PunkRockRunner).  We are happy to be representing our friend!  I’m even happier that Ron was able to make it white with purple!  Awesome!  We head to the start to be amongst the others who anxiously await the start.

The race began on time.  It started early because they feared that the weather – which is normally HOT at this time of year for Fresno, would once again creep up to some high temps.  Thankfully, it did not.  It was around the low to mid 60s the entire time which was perfect for me.  By looking at the course map, I thought for sure I’d get lost running thru the streets of Fresno, but I knew that I’d be okay because I’d be with other runners – some ahead of me, some behind me, but I knew that unlike small trail races, I’d never really be “alone.”   I “lost” Penny and Kristy at the start.  They were going to run together.   The run was surprisingly nice for me, but it got even better at around the half mark because this is where we entered the Fresno Zoo!  Wow!  It was perfect for me that the first animals that I saw were kangaroos, zebras, and giraffes.  If you’re wondering why, it’s because my father always loved Australia and always brought me back something from there that was animal themed.  I still have a koala coin purse that he brought me when I was around 8 or 9.  Running among those animals reminded me of my dad, and how he loved to watch me run!  I needed that at this point.  Not that I was struggling or anything, just sometimes I think I’m forgetting my dad when it’s only been 3 years.  It was kind of a nice to remember that his memory surrounds me.

The rest of the run was fairly “easy” for me.  I was pretty much on track hitting about 10 -1030 min/miles which I was happy with.  I still have a lot of plantar fascitis issues, and I could feel my left foot and ankle a little, but not enough to bother me.  I knew that I was a little off in my gait, but I still ran fairly well.  My friend, Linda, told me later that she was at the mile 12 marker, however I didn’t see her.  I think she got there late and I had already finished.  I would’ve loved to have seen her, she is the BEST race cheerleader!!!

I loved that race.  Not only was it a good run for me, but I so enjoyed meeting my Twitter friends!  I have met some really nice people on there and meeting them in real life is a bonus!  The *blng* (medal) was nice, as was the post race fueling!  Com’mon … Stone Cold!  Heck yeah!  There was also beer, and the usual fare of bagels, and bananas, but Stone Cold was definately my fav!  The only complaint that I have was that I did not see one porta-potty out on the course.  Seriously, not one!  Lucky for me, I was smart enough to use the one at the zoo, but really, not one out on the course.  The water stations were pretty scarce, too, but I can’t remember.  I have been trying to teach myself to run without a water belt, so I have only been carrying a very mini one from iFitness which I LOVE.  However, did you know that Nuun, the flavored water tabs, will explode under pressure?  OMG!  I didn’t, or I wasn’t paying any attention that they were effervescent so I put one in my water bottle when I refilled it at one of the stations.  At mile 10 when I wanted a sip … I got a face full!!!!  Holy cow!  Thank God I am able to laugh at myself because I’m sure it was amusing to all those around me who heard me yell out then bust out laughing!

Would I run it again?  Yes!  It was a very nice run.  I enjoyed myself!  So … Fresno … see you in 2012!

My New Friends - Penny & Kristy
It's all about the *bling*!

Run With Me, Not Away From Me …

R. Wallen, R.N.Leave a comment

I know and understand that we are not all meant to be the same. I get that we were born to be original versions of ourselves, that we all have our own paths in life, that we all have our own destinies to find, and our own plan that is already predetermined and laid out for us by our Creator. I believe that wholeheartedly. However, I when it comes to those that are closest to you, you would think that we would be somewhat closer or more similar, especially when it comes to your own children.

I have four children. Yep, that’s not a typo, I did say FOUR. 4! Three boys, and one girl, the youngest. All four similar to me, yet all different in their own right.

I would be lying if I didn’t say that I wished that they were MORE like me in some respects, yet I appreciate their individuality and their uniqueness. I can’t turn them into Mini Me’s, nor do I believe that I want them to be “just like me.” As they get older, it’s difficult to try and keep them on the the same path that I am on. Try as I might, I can only do and say so much to try and persuade them to stay on course with me.

I watch and listen to them formulate their own decisions. Some I let them make on their own, others I believe they are not quite old enough to decide for themselves yet. I can put my two cents in and gently guide them back on track, or if need be, I can assert my authority as their mother and let my upper hand rule for the time being. Sometimes they look at me as if I were crazy and didn’t know what I was talking about, but for the most part, for now, they don’t resist, they just roll their eyes or cop an attitude but do as told.

I can’t control what happens when they are not in my line of vision. I can’t control their thoughts or make them do anything. I understand peer pressure and the influences that their friends may have on them. I can, however, let them know about my experiences and my thoughts on the matter and hope and pray that they make wise choices and decisions.

I worry about their futures. I stress about the things that they are or may be exposed to. I worry about the kinds of friends they may have chosen for themselves. I harp on and constantly nag them about doing their homework and doing well in school, and about doing certain chores around the house. I wonder what kind of people they will grow up to be.

The truth is … I have no control over this. I can’t determine or see the future. I can’t wrap them up in bubble wrap to shield them from life’s unfairness and harsh realities. I can’t hold on to them so tightly that they would only recoil and land farther away from me when let go.

It makes me sad to know that time is flying past me so quickly. I find myself wondering when did it happen that had to start looking up so look into their eyes? So many times I find myself wishing that I could do more, would have done more, had been more patient, took more time off. Believe me … it breaks my heart to know that my time with them is so limited. On the outside I may appear so strong, yet on the inside it takes all that I have to hold myself together when it comes to them.

This is not exactly where I was going with this blog post. I was writing this because I was thinking, and I wanted to write that sometimes I wish that my children (or at least one) enjoyed running. Mind you, I am thankful for the times that my boys have ridden their bicycles or skateboards beside me as I ran. I just feel that I spend so much of my time on foot that if they were to actually run beside me, we could spend a few more precious moments together. Alas, NONE of my children find pleasure in running … only in running away from me as I heard my Nathan jokingly tell someone recently when asked if he ran. My children enjoy swimming, baseball, football, and jump roping. I have one that loves poker, another that enjoys skateboarding, and one that I have have dubbed my “GQ” boy. But … I am NOT complaining. I would not have them any other way. I enjoy them as they are – they are their own people. A different, better, more improved version of me and their father … I love them all dearly.

It is my desire that they find wisdom eventually in my nagging – do your homework, study hard, do your chores, be nice to people, save some money, etc. I hope that they eventually learn that what I do, what I have done, I do/have done for them. And I find comfort in knowing that if I *really* wanted them to … Really, really wanted them to … I could just ask them and they would run with me … and that one run would be enough to last me a long time.

– Posted using BlogPress from my RowPhone =]

When Your Heart’s Not In It

R. Wallen, R.N.1 Comment

I hate to admit that lately it seems as if I have been having more days than I care to admit where I don’t “feel it” during my runs. Try as I might, I run, but it’s just not there. What’s not there? My heart.

I know.  I know.  Everyone has days like this, right?   It’s called burnout and it’s normal to feel like this, right? I’m afraid though that the feeling of loving the runs won’t come back. I feel as if it’s just so hard for me to get out there and get’er done. It sucks when running feels more like a a chore than something that I love and enjoy.

I know that I most likely need to take a break from it and find something else for awhile, but the truth is that I have already committed to running several races in the next couple months.  My Coach had to remind me that I’ve been non-stop since last year!  I just don’t think about it, I just do the work.   So far, for 2011,  I am booked thru May and it’s only January! Yikes! I am not one to back down or bow out of scheduled and paid for races so I will finish what I started.

I know that the feeling will eventually pass, or at least I am hoping and praying that it will. This has happened to me before, just not as intense as it has felt lately. I am confident in my abilities – that is not the issue. I know myself and I know that I WILL finish what I start. I know that I will put forth the work that needs to get done in order for me to improve and that will get me to every finish line.

Maybe that’s what it is … That unwillingness to just let go and let things fall as they may. I’m too caught up in the things that have to be done – the speed work, the LSD runs, etc. It’s starting to feel like work and I’m not liking it very much. It just doesn’t feel “fun” lately and I’m trying to remember what it is that I love about running … and I can’t remember.

I just have to find my heart, get my mojo back. I know it’s there lurking close by. It will eventually. I don’t want running to feel like such a chore. I want it to come easily … Like it did when I was a kid, running free and without a care in the world.

So … I send a heartfelt plea out to the Running Gods, to the Goddess Nike, to anyone that will listen. Bring back the kid-like, carefree days of running to me. The days when running was not chore-like, where I could be seen running and giggling at the same time, moving gracefully, and not caring about form or how my foot strikes. The days when sprinting hard made me laugh breathlessly, versus leaving me gasping for breath with lungs on FIRE! The days when not much thought was put into running and I could run for hours because it was “just running.” Maybe then, if I can be brought back to that place, if I could just feel that carefree happiness again … it would make all this “work” seem worthwhile …

– Posted using BlogPress from my RowPhone =]

2010 Goal Attained and Expectations Exceeded

R. Wallen, R.N.Leave a comment
1/1/10 Our first run of 2010 - Resolutions Run, Auburn, CA

In all honesty, for Mac and I, it started as a goal to join Half Fanatics.  We had run a half together last August 2009, and we were virtually training together, keeping each other in check, sharing our training schedules, websites, what worked for us, etc.  We were sitting and chatting via FaceBook one night bouncing ideas off each other when I casually blurted out that we needed to join Half Fanatics, and I asked if she thought that we could do it?  Three halfs in three months … was this something possible for us?  Oh yeah, we decided that it was, and began planning and came up with our the three half marathons that we would run.  In the midst of all this planning, I’m not sure exactly who’s idea it was (I believe that it was Mac’s), we decided why just three, why not make it a half EVERY month?  And so there you have it … the seed was planted, and we went to work plotting out the logistics and calculating costs.  Here is the list of what we came up with and ran for 2010:

For January we decided to run the Auburn Resolutions Run on January 1st – to start our year off right!  It was not a half because we only ran 10 miles, but it was a great start our year.

Feb 2010 - Kaiser Half Marathon, San Francisco, CA.

February – The Kaiser Permanente Half Marathon in San Francisco, CA.

March - Shamrock n' Half, Sacramento, CA.

March – Shamrock N’ Half Marathon, Sacramento, CA.

Artichoke Half, Pescadero, CA. April 2010.

April – The Tsunami Half Artichoke Half Marathon, Pescadero, CA.

American River Parkway Half, Sacramento, CA. May 2010.

May – American River Parkway Half Marathon, Sacramento, CA.

See Jane Run, Alameda, CA. June 2010,

June – See Jane Run, Alameda, CA.

Our first tutu run - Hernia Hills, July 2010.

July – The Half From Hell Hernia Hills Half Marathon, Vallecito, CA.

Modesto Midnight, August 2010.

August – Modesto Midnight Half Marathon, Modesto, CA.

Fall Showdown, Sept. 2010.

September – Wolf Pack Events, Fall Showdown, SanPablo, CA.  This was our very first trail run and we absolutely LOVED it!!!

October – Nike Womens Marathon, San Francisco, CA.  We actually wanted this to be our FULL marathon, but for Mac, injury took it down to a half for her, while I ran the full.

Dirty Girls ...

October – Merrill Down and Dirty Mud Run, Folsom, CA.  This was not a half, rather a 10K trail run with obstacles.  It was something that we did together!

Mile 9 of Stockton's Inaugural Half.

November – Inaugural Stockton Half Marathon, Stockton, CA.

December – C.I.M. Relay Challenge, Sacramento, CA.  We were Team MiniRow and The MACHine.  Mac ran legs 1 and 2, while I ran legs 3 and 4!

We could not believe that we were actually crazy enough to set this goal, let alone achieve it.  Yet here we are … still standing … and smiling.  We both had our share of injuries, and frustrations, yet we both gutted it all out, ran thru whatever aches and pains we were experiencing, and did it.  We know that others run full marathons or half marathons EVERY week.  Our goal pales in comparison, yet it’s large for us because here we are:  Full-time Health Care workers, wives, and mothers.  We have actual lives.  Running is not our lives, it is a big part of our lives, but we don’t let it run our lives.  Taking the time out to train, then to actually run the races was big for us.

Training was done mostly on our own as we both live about a good 1.5 hours away from each other.  Although we both had people we could run with, we learned quickly that these individuals were not always reliable, so most of our running was alone.   Keeping track of each other was done by mostly by text and Facebook.  This was a must to keep each other motivated.  We could tell when one was waning and needed a fire lit underneath (mostly me, I am not ashamed to admit, as Mac is very self-motivated).  We were very good about holding each other accountable.  We shared tips.  We shared websites.  Recommended nutrition – Gu vs. Gels, etc.  We included our husbands in races when possible.  When one of us was down, the other would motivate and prod gently.  But we ALWAYS had fun.  ALWAYS!  We knew that if the time came that it was no longer fun, then we would reconsider.  We NEVER reconsidered.  We took breaks when we needed them, but jumped back on the band wagon quickly as the “need” to run was never that far away.

All in all, I have to say that it has been a very good year for MiniRow and The MACHine!  2010 was a great year for running for both of us as we hit some pretty high mileage months during training.  We learned much about resting when we need to because injuries suck.  We have both spent time in Physical Therapy.  We have spent countless dollars on race fees, race gear, shoes, outfits, food, hotels, insurance co-pays, etc.,   However, we would not trade it in for anything.  Through it all we have bonded and developed a great friendship.  Our ending to our 2010 season could not have ended any better than by the two of us being chosen and receiving Inaugural Endorphin Dudette Status!!!  (Read about that here.)

To our families – thank you for allowing us the time to train; for putting up with our antsy-ness when we really needed to get out there and run it out; for allowing us to use our hard earned money to pay for race fees, buy expensive shoes, outfits, gadgets, gear, and what-nots.  Thank you for allowing us to take the time (away from you) to run races all over Northern California.  Thank you for watching the kiddos.

To our friends:  Thank you for putting up with us.  For listening to our stories and shop talk of running.  For encouraging us, and for reminding us that there is life outside of our insane madness to run.  Thank you for running with us when possible.

If only others could be so lucky as to find their ideal running mate.  I know that I could not have asked or have been blessed with a better one!  I look forward to an even better 2011 Running Season.

Mac, thank you from the bottom of my heart for being not only my running partner, but my friend, my confidant, my cheerleader, my pace-setter, my Co-Endorphin Dudette!  I love you, Mac!  See you in 2011!

Our last run of 2010 - CIM Relay Challenge, Sacramento, CA. Also sportin' our Endorphin Dudette status headbands!!!

Endorphin Dudette Status

R. Wallen, R.N.Leave a comment

Endorphin Dude is a persona created by our FaceBook friend, Tony Nguyen.  He tells the story that in 2009 on April Fool’s Day, he believed that he was having what he thought was a heart attack, and quickly decided then to make some serious life changes, one of which included walking, which eventually led to running.  He dubbed himself Endorphin Dude because he says that when he runs, he “feels like a superhero!”

Tony is a Half-Fanatic, and a Marathon Maniac.  I cannot count the number of 5Ks, 10Ks, half-marathons, or full marathons Tony has participated and run in.  Just know that it is an outrageous amount.  It is an amount that Mac and I are envious of because we always long to run in so many more races than we do.

We became friends with Tony via FaceBook in early summer when he befriended Mac as he saw that she was also a Half-Fanatic.  We followed him, exchanged banter, motivated each other, and are slowly getting to know him as time passes.  We have been trying to find a race that we can meet Tony in real life (IRL), however we have not yet had the opportunity or pleasure to do so.

In mid-November, Mac and I were contacted by Tony via FaceBook email, in which he wrote the following:

“I created the Endorphin Dude persona because I want to show people that running a marathon or a half marathon is fun! I am very proud that I have inspired many people to get out there and make healthy changes in their lives, and now I want to conquer the world! I am expanding the Endorphin Dude Empire. I am introducing Endorphin Dudettes. Every month, I will feature a powerful endorphin-filled dudette to spread the word fitness, fun, positivity. The Endorphin Dudette will respresent the Endorphin Empire at a race in which Endorphin Dude will not be running. For the month of December, I would really like you two to be my E-Dudettes. You two will be the first! If you’re up for it, let me know. I have pink head bands for you. I would love to see you sport them at CIM while I’m in Vegas!”

Needless to say, Mac and I were bothe very thrilled and honored to have been chosen FIRST by Tony, out of all of the other runner friends that he has IRL and on FaceBook, many of which he has known for quite some time.  Longer than the two of us.  We were both “IN,” of course.  Inaugural Endorphin Dudettes?  Oh, hell yeah!  We have admired Endorphin Dude from the get go – his love and passion for our sport of running, his infectious smile, his boundless energy, and his cape and headband!  Endorphin Dude emboides the sport and encourages others to “join the revolution.”

We were to make our inaugural appearance as Endorphin Dudettes at the California International Marathon (CIM), where Mac and I would run the relay as a team of 2.  We dubbed ourselves Team MiniRow and The MACHine.  Tony sent out our headbands with instructions to keep quiet until his official announcement after our race.  On race day, Mac and I dressed and wore our Endorphin Dudette headbands with pride.  Everyone at CIM could see our pink headbands as we ran through the streets of Sacramento!

At times we wondered why we were chosen ad the very first Endorphin Dudettes.  The answer came shortly as we read the caption to our picture which was posted on the Endorphin Dude FaceBook Fan Page: 

“So many beautiful dudettes applied for December that I ended up choosing more than one incredible super woman to represent the Endorphin Empire! Please meet Row.Wallen and Machelle Crist Donahoo. These two definitely exemplify the true essence of the Endorphin Dudette. I love that they run together and finish together. Their enthusiam and love for the sport makes me want to put on my Mizunos and run a marathon! Congratulations Row and Machelle on your CIM finishes. You two ROCK!”

What an honor to have been chosen first!!!  You can imagine how proud Mac and I were for Tony to have done this for us.  Mac and I also run for the love of the sport.  True, it keeps us in great shape, but to be honest we run because we love it.  We encourage our friends to run.  We do our best to motivate others in our sport.  Most importantly, we run because it’s fun.  It keeps us happy and sane, and looking HOT! 

Thank you, Tony – Endorphin Dude, for gracing us with this honor!  We will forever embody the spirit of Endorphin Dudette and keep it alive within us! 

You can read more about Tony Nguyen and Endorphin Dude by clicking the above link.  Endorphin Dude also has a blog, which you can read here.

6th Annual Stockton’s Run Against Hunger

R. Wallen, R.N.2 Comments

PreRace - Channeling my inner Punk Rock Runner!

I love this little race.  It’s a 5 or 10K run, or walk held in downtown Stockton.  The first time I ran this race was last year, so I thought I’d run it again since 1) It’s a good training run; 2) I’d run off any excess Thanksgiving meal that I happen to eat; 3) It’s for a great cause … I, myself, don’t like being hungry, so I cannot leave others to be hungry.

Today’s race was to be treated as a training run, but, of course, you know that a PR is always at the back of my mind.  I was just going to run … throw some intervals in there as I had done in a few past running drills.  However, I had spoken to my Coach, @speedysasquatch, earlier in the week and he put me back on a plan and gave me some guidelines.  One mile warm up, pick it up progressively, then run it in.  Okay.  I could do that.

PreRace Cheezin' with my good friend, Cory!

I was thankful that I was able to convince my husband to tag along with me.  He is my biggest supporter, and I love having him there.  I felt kind of bad for him though because he had worked a half of a shift that night, and because it was 37 degrees that morning!

Ryan & Cory - PreRace

I met my friend Cory and her son, Ryan, that morning.  Mac lives in Sac, and as this was just a little race, she would not be ruuning this one with me.  Cory and I had fun cheezin’ for pre-race pictures.  I was able to meet Cory’s friend, Leah, who is actually Cory’s neighbor and running buddy.  We looked for other friends, but it was just to be us.  It was really cold, so we tried to stand in the sun and just keep movin’.

Promptly at 0830, the gun goes off and we all take off in a mass of people.  I was thankful that even though the crowd was large, I was never stuck in a pack of people.  I lost Cory and Ryan in the first mile though.  =(  I was on my own, but that was okay.

I had made a new playlist for my run the night before so I was good to go …. Appropriately named “Row’s 10K PR Playlist,” it had 17 songs, and would play for no longer than 58 minutes.

  1. Just a Dream by Nelly
  2. G.R.I.N.D. (Get Ready It’s a New Day) by Asher Roth
  3. Just The Way You Are by Bruno Mars
  4. Firework by Katy Perry
  5. The Time (Dirty Bit) by The Black Eyed Peas
  6. Raise Your Glass by Pink
  7. We R Who We R by Kesha
  8. Magic by B.o.B. (feat. Rivers Cuomo)
  9. Na Na Na (Na Na Na Na Na Na Na Na) by My Chemical Romance
  10. Please Don’t Go by Mike Posner
  11. We No Speak Americano by Yolanda Be Cool & DCup
  12. Forget You (Glee Cast Version) (feat. Gwennyth Paltrow)
  13. The Rockfeller Skank by Fatboy Slim
  14. The Middle by Jimmy Eat World
  15. (If You’re Wondering If I Want You) I Do by Wheezer
  16. Like a G6 by Far East Movement

I knew what I needed to do.  I knew that once I heardRockafeller Skank that that was my cue …

I cruised the run, and was doing well hitting sub 10 min miles … 9:30, 9:15 … whatever.  I had my Roxanne (Garmin) on, but I forgot to hit “start” right at the beginning so it was a tad off, and I wasn’t really paying any attention to it.  I was just cruisin’ along.

Halfway point - lookin' strong, feelin' strong!

I wasn’t really waiting for anything.  I just knew my cue.  So when Fatboy Slim started blarring out of my earbuds, right before mile 5, I was gone.  It was fitting that the first words are, “Right about now … ” It was also fitting that I was following someone at a “safe” distance that I did not want to beat me.  I took off and passed this individual right then and right there.  I did not worry that they would catch me because I would not allow it.  I am thankful that Rockafeller Skank is a song  just about 7 minutes long.  I promised myself that I would run hard while it played … It worked.  I ran my fastest mile at sub 9!  =)

I finished that 10K in 55 minutes!  =)  Yeeeee Haaaawww!  I was happy that I did so well.  The number in my head was 54, but I was very happy with my 6 minute PR.

Me, Ryan, Cory, and Mel. Me with the BEAUTIFUL People!
Ryan, Cory, & I - PostRace! We look awesome, 'cause we ARE awesome!

Ryan and Cory finished in respectable times as well, at about 60 minutes!  We met up at the end for more postrace cheezin’.  We were able to find our beautiful friend, Mel.  I looked for my friend, Christina, who Chris says finished in 48 minutes.  We had fun.

All in all, it was a great way to start Thanksgiving.  I am proud of myself, finishing in a very respectable time, improving!  I felt a little bad that I picked the person off at mile 5 and didn’t say a word.  Why?  Because I always encourage people.  I don’t care if I know you, or whatever, I will encourage you to come with me so that I can tag along with them.  But there was something, I don’t know what to call it, in me, that got a little peeved at this individual and I was done.  I felt no remorse about taking off.  To be honest, it felt really good.  I know that sounds callous and catty, but … I don’t care.  I did it.  In my head it was a challenge to this person to come with me … Eh, I was right, they didn’t.  And knowing the little bit that I know about this individual, I know it made them mad that I zoomed passed without warning!

Awesome.  I am thankful to have such great running friends in real life, and in my virtual circle.  I am thankful to have a supportive family, especially my husband who is my greatest supporter.  I am thankful for my Coach, Josh, who has more confidence in my potential, and helps me to expose it!

Foot Motivation written by Chris. It reads, "It's all about the mind. Run Row Run. 2010"

On a side note, I was reading a blog written by my Twitter friend, @RTDanielle09, and she had on there a small piece on how she and some friends, have others write words of inspiration on the soles of their feet. (Read that blog here.)  The words are not read until after the race is run.  I thought that that was such a great idea, so prior to putting on my shoes and socks this morning, I had asked my hubby to write something on the sole of my foot.  I actually forgot all about it until just about stepping in the shower.  I had him snap a photo of it for posterity.  I believe that this is a new tradition that I will continue.

PostRace - Happy, Thankful, Blessed to be able to run, and for so, so much MORE!!!

Happy Thanksgiving 2010, everyone.  Hope you are all as thankful and as blessed as I am …

2011 Racing Schedule

R. Wallen, R.N.1 Comment

For someone who recently stated that, “I don’t ever want to run again,”  it’s quite funny that I already have a FULL, and slightly ambitious racing schedule for 2011!!!  Running has become such a BIG part of my life, and it has evolved into a life of it’s own.  Everything is tentative, nothing is set in stone.  All I know is I am going to run!!!  Who’s coming with me?!?  I know Mac’s (@lincsmomruns) comin’ with me for most of these runs, as she is my ever faithful friend and running buddy!  Who else???  Let’s gooooo …. !!!

***  Please, if you have any suggestions, don’t hesitate to let me know.  I’d love to run with you!!! ***

January:

01 January 2011: Resolutions Run, Auburn, CA. I did this run with my friend, Mac, last year to commemorate our lofty goal of running a half a month.  It was fun even though I got lost on the trail and added an extra mile to my run!  This was a great way to start our year together!

01 January 2011: Fleet Feet Stockton 2011 Pajama Jam This will be one of the first years that I’ll be off on New Year’s Eve … I plan to attend this crazy 2011 kick off and run in my pajamas at the stroke of midnight!  It’s a quick 2 mile jaunt around Stockton’s Lincoln Center.  It’ll be fun … come with me!   ** I am  “IN” for this fun run!!! **

02 January 2011: Brazen Racing New Year Run, Lake Chabot, CA. I would rather do this one, versus the Resolutions Run.  I haven’t made up my mind yet though.  It sounds like fun, so maybe.  Yeah, and don’t say, “Why don’t you do both, Row.?”  ***Update***  I am “IN” for this race!

09 January 2011:  California 10, Stockton, CA. This race benefits Parkinson’s disease.  It’s a 10 mile run, but  I’m only going to run the 10K because I work the night before.  I’m just happy that I’ll be out there with friends.  =)

29 January 2011: Coyote Hills Half Marathon, Coyote Hills Regional Park, CA. It’s another race put on by Brazen Racing … I just know that I want to run, and it’s on my weekend off.  Gotta take advantage of that! Decided not to run this after all … I have to find some time to let my poor foot heal.

February:

06 February 2011: Kaiser Permanente Half Marathon, San Francisco, CA. Reasons to consider this run even though I *really* don’t want to:  1.  @runnrgrl will be in town and she asked me, and, 2.  because I work for KP.  I don’t really care to run this one again because of the fact that there is NO bling!!!  It seems shallow, but it’s true.  I’m all about the bling these days!

06 February 2011:  Surf City Half Marathon, Malibu, CA. This sounds like the race to run.  Plus, you get a really cool Surf Board medal.  It’s all about the bling, ‘eh?

06 February 2011:  Davis Stampede, Davis, CA.  As we did not want to do Kaiser Half because, honestly, I don’t like it, and because there’s no bling, we decided to to this half instead.  It sounds like fun, and it’s different because we have not run this one before.  I’m excited to run this one, and Chris will be running the 10K which I heard was a good one to run.

March:

13 March 2011:  Shamrock’n Half Marathon, Sacramento, CA. This race in Sac, is such a fun run!  I enjoyed it and can’t wait to run it in 2011.  This will be Chris’ first half marathon.  How exciting for him!!!  ** “IN” for this one and so is Chris!**

29 March 2011:  Big Sur Mud Run, Monterey, CA. This sounds like super fun!!!  I love mud runs!

April:

10 April 2011: U.S. Half-Marathon, San Francisco, CA. This is actually the second half of another half-marathon that was held in October 2010.  If I would have known, I would have run that one also, however, it was not to be because I didn’t know and didn’t register on time.  This run sounds like a good one.  I’m sure it’d definately be better than Pescadero despite Pescadero being very pretty!

10 April 2011: Artichoke Half Marathon, Pescadero, CA. It was a tsunami when we ran it last year, but it was a really nice course.  Plus, Big Al was a hoot!  Oh, and I can’t forget to mention that you get a medal and a large artichoke!

10 April 2011: Paso Robles Wine Country Runs, Paso Robles, CA. I want to run this one because my Twitter friends, @southbaygirl and @Ms_Torie, have been asking me to run with them and I *really* do want to run with them.  It’s not that far away, and Chris says we can make a weekend out of it.  I’m leaning towards this one despite the fact that I have no run scheduled with Mac.

15-16 April 2011:  Ragnar Relay – So. California, Hunnington Beach to Coronado Island. I think that this would be such a great event to be a part of.  I remember my friend Ali (@alitherunner) telling me all about her experience last year and she had so much fun.  If it’s possible to get a team together I’d really like to run this! I wanted to run this, but it’s not happening.  Too many things going on!

16 April 2011:  Great Spear It Run, Stockton, CA. I’ve always run the 5 mile run that they have, but there’s a 5K also.  It’s in downtown Stockton, and the Asparagus Festival is really cool. I have to work the night before and the night of, so this little race is out.

10 April 2011: Santa Cruz Half Marathon, Santa Cruz, CA. It was kinda difficult to decide for an April race, but since Mac “inherited” a bib from one of her friends who bailed out on this race, we decided to run this.  Also, it’s my chance to meet @solorunner and @banksy from Twitter.  I love Santa Cruz.  It’s so pretty and I love The Boardwalk.  I remember running here for Wharf to Wharf several times in the past – and it’s such a great atmosphere!  =)

May:

01 May 2011:  OKC Memorial Marathon/Half Marathon, Oklahoma City, OK. I know, this race is not in Cali.  The only reason why I am considering this race is because my Twitter friends, Kris (@seekrisrun), and Mel (@SeeMelTri). **Sorry, I can’t run this one because of the fact that I’ll be travelling to Indianappolis the next week.  Maybe next year?

07 May 2011:  Indy 500 Mini Marathon, Indianapolis, IN. I really have a strong desire to run this half.  My brother lives in Indy and I’m not sure how long he’ll be there.  It sounds like so much fun to take a victory lap around the actual Indy 500 track!  **Update*** I am “IN” for this race.  I registered and have my confirmation.  Indianapolis … look out … here comes Row. =)

22 May 2011: Fresno Classic Eye Q Half, Fresno, CA. I’m looking forward to running this one since my boy lives in Fresno.  I know, “It’s Fresno and it’s gonna be HOT.”  But … I don’t care.  I think it’ll be fun.  I’ve heard that this weekend is a great weekend – lots of fun!  I was able to talk @southbaygirl and @LindaV1959 and my friend, Mellie Mel, to run with me!    **I’m registered and “IN” for this one!!!**

30 May 2011:  Inaugural Stockton Rotary 5 & 10K, Stockton, CA.  It’ll be fun to run in the city that I live in.  It’s for a good cause … to eradicate Polio, which in some third world countries they don’t have the resources or the funds for the vaccination that we take for granted here in the U.S.  I plan to run the 10K, it may be a little rough though as I will be working the night before.

June:

04 June 2011:  Nitro Trail Half Marathon, Point Pinole Regional Shoreline, CA. This may have to be the Half to run as SJR changed the day of their race to Sunday.  **I’m “IN” for this one.**

05 June 2011: See Jane Run Half Marathon, Alameda, CA. I wasn’t going to run this one, but a crazy thought popped in my head and I want to see if I can handle running back to back half marathons.  I registered at the last minute with a discount code.  Stand by for race reports.

05 June 2011:  Muddy Buddy Duathalon, San Jose, CA. I have done this Duathalon for a few years now, and every year it’s just as fun, if not funner for me! Muddy Buddy moved to October … =(

11 June 2011:  Lake Tahoe Relay, Lake Tahoe, CA. I wanted to run this last year when a friend of mine asked me to be on their team, but I couldn’t get the weekend off.  Maybe this year I can get a team together and run it!

July:

Bad Bass Half Marathon, Lake Chabot, CA. Not sure what the date is for this one.  The link is to last year’s (2010) race.  Haha … I thought this event was called “Bad Ass” at first.  As soon as I find out the date I’ll know more if I can do this race or not.

16 July 2011:  Davis Moo-nlight Half Marathon.  A night run with glow in the dark medals?  Heck yeah.  I’m *IN* for this half.  Sounds like a fun run!

31 July 2011:  San Francisco Marathon/Half Marathon. @Alitherunner and @erikarae74 have talked me into running this one.  I’m looking forward to it!  =)

August:

13-14 August 2011:  Extraterrestrial Full Moon Marathon/Half, Rachel, NV. Now this sounds like FUN!!!  Running in the DARK near mysterious Area 51!  And the chance to encounter E.T.?  Yeah!!!  I know, I’m crazy, but it sounds like sooooo much fun!!! It’s the same day as Modesto Midnight.  =(

13 August 2011:  Modesto Midnight Half Marathon, Modesto, CA. I’m not sure if the date is correct, I’m hoping that it is.  The link is for Active’s 2010 sign up.  Sorry.  I like this race.  It’s fun, and it marks the Runniversary for Mac and I.  There’s a lot of things that need to be fixed/improved, but to me it’s a fun run because I like to run in the dark!  ** Note:  It’s not certain yet if this half marathon will happen again.  We are still awaiting word from Fleet Feet Stockton, and On Your Mark Events.

27 August 2011:  The Giant Race – Half Marathon, San Francisco, CA.  I love the SF Giants.  Sounds like a good race so I thought I’d sign up.  =)  I’m kind of excited to run in SF and finish up on the field.

September:

04 September 2011:  Disneyland Half Marathon, Anaheim, CA. This one sounds like fun!  Running with the characters, and just having fun.  **I’m “IN” for this one, and so is Chris!**

24 September 2011:  Fall Showdown Half Marathon, El Sobrante, CA. I really enjoyed this trail half.  I had a lot of fun, and discovered that I truly enjoy running on a trail!  I’m not sure if the date is correct, and the link is to WolfPack Events, the organizer off the marathon.  ** Note not sure about the date.  Standby.

October:

16 October 2011:  Nike Women’s Marathon, San Francisco, CA. This was the first BIG race that I ever signed up for and it holds a lot of sentimental value to me, and I have fundraised every year for the Leukemia Lymphoma Society for this race as “Team Running For Dad.”   However, I have yet to conquer this marathon and “truly” be happy about it.  I already have a guaranteed spot to this race, but I have to decide whether to run the full marathon or the half marathon.  I plan on registering to get another Group ID number, so for anyone who wants to be in my group … Let’s go!  I’m **IN** for the Half Marathon.  I decided that the full was not the run for me, but the half … I love the half! =)

22 October 2011:  Los Vaqueros Tarantula Half Marathon, Brentwood, CA. My friend, Ron (@punkrockrunner) told me about this one, however I was still recovering from the NWM so I could not run it this year.  I would love to run it in 2011 though.

23 October 2011:  Port City Half Marathon, Stockton, CA. There’s talk about another half in Stockton, CA, and this is it.  There’s no information on it yet, but it looks pretty definite.  How exciting for us.

30 October 2011:  Down and Dirty Mud Run, Folsom, CA. This was the perfect way to get my running mojo back this year and I can’t wait to run it again in 2011!!!  I had so much fun!

November:

06 November 2011:  Fresno Marathon/Half, Fresno, CA. If I do decide to run a full marathon in 2011, this may be the one I would consider running.  If not, then I may just run the half as everyone says that it’s a great race to run!

06 November 2011:  U.S. Half, San Francisco, CA. I heard about this too late this year, otherwise, I would have signed up for it.  It sounds like a great time running across the Golden Gate Bridge!

13 November 2011:  Stockton Half Marathon, Stockton, CA. Not sure if this race will happen again in 2011 yet or not as 2010 was the inagural race (at the time of this writing, I have yet to run it).  It’s a hometown race for me, so I feel obligated to run it.

24 November 2011:  Run To Feed The Hungry 10K, Stockton, CA. Fast, fun 10K to run on Thanksgiving morning after I put the turkey in the oven!  =)

December:

04 December 2011:  CIM Relay, Sacramento, CA. or California International Marathon, Sacramento, CA. I believe that if this there is one marathon that I run this year, this will be it.  I liked the course, I enjoyed the venue and the expo.  I have talked Cory into running it with me, and Mac already wants to run this as her full.  I also believe that Chris will get a team together to run the relay.  =)  I’m **IN** for the FULL!!!  Let the training begin in July.

10 December 2011:  Run Walnut Creek Half Marathon, Walnut Creek, CA. This is gonna be a rough one since I’m running a full the week before.  But this needs to be done in order to get the NorcalHalfSeries Medal!!!  I’m gonna run it even if it kills me!!!  LOL!!  I CAN do it.  I will do it.  It’ll be the last one for the year … Until 2 weeks later … Oi!

Nike Womens Marathon – Race Report

R. Wallen, R.N.Leave a comment
MiniRow ... I Run To Be MIGHTY!!!

It’s all about the goal, right? Or is it?  You work sooooo hard at something – putting in the time, the effort, the training, and in some cases, blood, sweat, and tears … You give up sleep, weekends, sweets, sleeping in … You give up time with your family and hope that they can eventually forgive you and see that there is meaning and an end to all of this madness …

Then it’s time.  Time to show what you’ve got, what you’re made of, what all the training you’ve been putting in and all the sacrifices you’ve made has got you … you’re there.  And then the unexpected happens.

In my case, it’s a week and a half out from the Nike Womens Marathon, my right foot with the really bad plantar fasicitis has healed so nicely.  I’d been babying it, and making sure that it behaves and doesn’t flare up … so much to the point that I “neglected” my left foot … I guess it got a little mad at me, and decided that it wanted the same attention that the right foot had gotten … and it decided this a week and a half before race day!  I scrambled to try and heal it quickly – rest, ice, heat, repeat … Epsom salt soaks, special socks, new inserts, visits to my chiropractor, and a massage … anything and everything.  It worked to an extent, but it wasn’t 100%.  Lefty was still pretty pissed!  That will teach me to neglect it, it seemed to tell me.  It wasn’t *really* bothering me though, so I was going to run it, too f’n bad!

The weekend for me, started on Friday afternoon.  Chris and I left for San Francisco, checked into our hotel, and got situated.  Our hotel was a mere two blocks from Union Square – the hub of the Expotique and Nike Town!  So perfect!  We walked down to the Expotique so that I could pick up my packet and see what else was going on before the “big” crowds hit on Saturday.  Although there’s a lot of energy, and it’s fun, the thing about the NWM is that the expo is soooooo small that it’s called an “expotique.”  Not a lot of vendors, more pitch about Nike+, etc.  I’m glad that I went and got that out of the way!  We were able to meet my Twitter friend, Liana (@FITtorrent), and we had planned to go to dinner that night!

Liana (@FitTorrent) and I.

Liana is such an amazing, wonderful person.  She is an inspiration to me, and it was fun getting to know her as she drove Chris and I through the streets of San Francisco, and as we had dinner at Scomas!  Oh, soooo goood!  If you have not yet had the pleasure to eat at Scoma’s, it’s wonderful seafood with a great ambiance!

Saturday would be busy as we were going to pick up another one of my Twitter friends, Ali (@alitherunner), from the airport, then meet up with Linda (@MsV1959).  Ali’s plane was delayed by about 45 minutes, so Chris and I headed to Nike Town to see if there was any Nike gear that I wanted to pick up.  I needed a hat as forecast for the race called for rain and I forgot my hat!  I ended up getting a really cool running hat, a running jacket, and an official NWM hoodie.  Then it was off to the Oakland Airport to get Ali!

Linda (@MsV1959), Ali (@AliTheRunner), and I.

The afternoon was spent at the Expotique picking up bibs and visiting vendors.  After they picked up their race bibs from the Expotique, we called Liana and our new friend, Courtney (@runcourtrun) and we searched for a location for lunch!  After much deliberation, we choose to lunch at the Daily Grill, and we called Mac who eventually met up with us with her sister-in-law, Kim.  We had a lively lunch, took a few pics, then it was back to the Expotique and to Nike Town.

By this time, I was seriously getting sick or tired, or both.  I had been on my feet for a good part of the day, and I just wanted to take a nap.  So I left Linda and Ali, I had already lost Mac and Kim … went to find my co-workers Judy and Suzanne to say a quick hello.  Afterwards, I went back to the hotel and crashed … hard.  I slept for two solid hours.  I could’ve slept until morning, but I needed to fuel up for the race.  We were able to connect with Suzanne and Judy and we had a very nice dinner at a Mexican restaurant close to our hotel.

Suzanne, Me, and Judy.

Last minute race details – pulling out the alternate race outfit due to rain, pinning the race bib to my dri fit shirt, making sure the inserts in my shoes were “comfortable,” breakfast ready to consume, electrolyte drink mixed … I was ready.

I slept uneventfully.  No tossing and turning.  I hit the pillow and I was out until the alarm went off at 0515!  Surprising as I usually don’t sleep well pre-race.

I met Ali and Linda at 0615.  San Francisco was cool and crisp – perfect running weather.  Walking to the start line I was already having some issues with Lefty.  I couldn’t get it comfortable in my shoe no matter what I did to my insert.  I could only hope for the best at this point.

Team Sasquatch - Ready To Go!

The energy at the start line was amazing!  Great music, happy runners …  I wish I could say that I added to the energy, but I wasn’t feelin’ it.  I felt blah, and I was worried.  If there was ever a time that I wish I could DNS, today would be that day!  But there was no turning back now … I know, I know, I know … cut to the race chase already!  I’m even boring my own self!  Ugh.

Immediately at 0700 the much awaited for gun goes off, and the race starts!  It took me 20 minutes to get to the official start, and that first step … that first step with Lefty, I knew it was going to be a very LONG race!  I was going to gut this out, but it was going to be hard.

The first 10K – I was holding steady.  I hit one of the dreaded hills and powered up without any difficulty.  I had lost my pacer, but I figured that I would just run and try to relax and have some kind of fun.  Lefty was irritated, but she was hanging on.  I thought about shedding a tear, but it I knew that it wouldn’t be worth it.  You see, Row. doesn’t cry.  Row. will keep on going.

Mile 9 – I had to go … and I had to go now.  I took a much needed porta potty break.  I’m not sure how much time I wasted waiting, but it didn’t seem like that long.

At mile 11, I see the turn off for the half and I contemplate turning off.  I stare at that turn off and long to steer my feet in that direction, but they wouldn’t veer off the path that they were on.  What?  Yeah, I know … my head knew that I had signed up for the FULL not the half marathon, and I wasn’t hurting bad enough yet to give up.  So, I bypassed that half turn off, grabbed a bunch of oranges from one of my favorite doctors, Dr. Gambhir, at the Kaiser Permanente station, and powered on.

Spotted by Chris at the Halfway point!

At the half, I was still having conversations with myself about why I didn’t turn and run down its path.  That would have been the easy way out.  I’dve been done already.  I’m just not a quitter.  I’m tenacious.  I’m strong.  I’m not smart enough to know when to quit.  Gah!  I stop to stretch out my tight calves and my poor Lefty!  I think again that it’s not too late to turn around and head towards the half … Yeah, it is, Row.  Yeah, it is.

At this time I’m running out of the park, heading towards my beloved nemesis … Lake Merced!  I love Lake Merced!  Hahaha … NOT!  But I had made it to Lake Merced this year without a hitch.  Never mind that I was soooooo off pace!  So off pace!  I knew that this would NOT be the race PR that I was hoping for.  I had already lost the race.  I was in my head, and try as I might, I couldn’t get out of it.  By this time, it’s raining … it feels good, and I think that if I were crying, it would sure mask the tears.  I wasn’t crying though.  I was running … just running.

Putting up a brave front - taken after my friend Jessica ran with me to mile 22!

At mile 20, I don’t know anymore.  I’m hurting … a lot.  Not just Lefty, but my pride is taking a big hit.  I can’t see how strong I am anymore.  I can’t see that I’m doing something incredible.  I’m pissed because I’m injured, and I’m not going to hit my goal of that sub 5 marathon that I trained so hard for.  I don’t care any more.  Then there’s a small miracle … a miracle in the form of a beautiful friend named Jessica Wilson!  She’s a friend of my son, Sam, and a student at SF State.  She had come out to support me.  By this time it’s pouring down rain, and I ask her, no, I BEG her to run with me for a minute.  “Please, run with me to mile 22,” I ask her.  She is a former cross country star, and I am ever so thankful that she says yes.  Jessica talks to me, she tells me that I am doing well, and that she’s amazed that I’ve come this far!  I’m sad when mile 22 come up and she leaves me … 4 more miles, Row.  Only 4 … I got this.

Yeah right … I’m hurting like you wouldn’t believe.  I’ve slowed down to an incredibly slow snail’s pace, and the letters DNF comes to mind!  But it’s only four. more. miles.  Power through.  Push.  I try to be positive.  I try to be happy that I would finish.  I don’t know what else to do.  I have nothing left in me … I’m tanked out.  Spent.  Done.  However, the only way back is to get to that finish line.  No one was going to come an pick up my sorry ass, and I am too proud to see “DNF” by my name.  I knew that I would finish come hell or high water …

And I did almost an hour later … by my Garmin I finished in 5:20ish.  I haven’t checked my official time, nor do I want to know.  I was done and I didn’t care.  I was ashamed that I couldn’t even be proud of my performance which was a PR, just not the PR that I was looking for.  I wasn’t happy.  All I could think of was, “I trained soooo hard for this!”  I felt so bad for my husband who was so proud of me, and all I could do was sulk.  I just wanted to get out of there!  It was cold, and it was raining wildly!  This time, the rain masked my tears.

I mistakenly sent a text to Linda telling her how I really felt which read, “I’m a loser.”  I couldn’t help it. I wanted to go home, crawl in a hole, and just die.  Okay, not die, but cry … I knew that I would be okay, but I really just needed to cry and get it out of my system.  My coach, Josh (@speedysasquatch), called me to talk about this “loser” business.  I let my cell go to voice mail as I just couldn’t talk to anyone.  I couldn’t … not yet.

A couple hours later, I was home, showered, unpacked, still tapped out, but fed.  My poor hubby, still trying to make me feel better, and I wasn’t having it.  I, who do not cry, let my guard down and the tears flowed.  He could not console me.  But I didn’t really want consolation, I only wanted to cry and get it out.

It wasn’t much later that I was able to talk to my coach.  The tears were no longer flowing, just a drop here and there.  He told me that I was NOT in any way, shape, or form a “loser.”  I finished that race – despite everything – injury, weather, difficult course – I finished that race.  I stared down the half chute and bypassed it.  I hit the wall, and perservered.  I hurt, and I kept going.  That, he said, tells him a lot about me.  I was reminded that most people would never even dream of showing up to the starting line.  I ran, and I finished, and I did PR despite not hitting my goal time.  So … hold my head up, he tells me, and be proud of myself.

And I cried again … because it is now that I realize that I am not a loser.  I am Row., marathon FINISHER.  When the going got tough, I got tougher, and I saw it through until the end.  That I believe is what people are talking about when they speak of the “Spirit of the Marathon.”  Thank you, Josh, for setting me straight, and for making me see me for who I am, not for what I do.

There will be other races, other marathons.  This is NOT the end for me.  This is just one of many, and I know that not every race can be a race where I PR.  For now I will take my finish and file it away.  I will be happy with the fact that I CAN run.   I will look harder to see the winner that I am because I know that she’s in there … I’ve caught glimpses of her before.  But right now, I need a well deserved break … and I am going to take it.  Not lacing my shoes up for a little while.  Gonna hang them up in a safe place and just look at them.

Quick Note:  I really have sooooo many people to thank for getting me through the finish line.  I know that I will not be able to name everyone, and if I “forget” to mention you … please don’t be offended.  First – BIG, HUGE thank you goes out to my coach, Josh (@SpeedySasquatch).  In the two (yes, you read correctly TWO) months that he worked with me, I improved greatly.  He kept my spirits up, and was a major factor in keeping my head screwed on right.  I have to thank, Mac, because she is my running buddy, and she never lets me down.  She is a solid rock, and a great inspiration and motivation.  I only wish that we could have run together.  I cannot forget ALL of my Twitter friends – I wish I could name ALL of you.  You guys ROCK!!!  You kept me motivated and held me accountable, you made the journey fun, and didn’t let me get down on myself when all I wanted to do was crawl in a hole!  For those who ran miles with me in real life – Ron (@PunkRockRunner), Linda (@MsV1959) and her running partner Kim, my friends from work – Cory and her husband, Sam, Suzanne, and Judy – who ran hills with me and came back even though I almost made her puke!  I TRULY appreciated all of your company as we put the miles in together!  And, of course, my awesome family!!!  Chris, who would bike beside me and be my SAG man and who has never missed a race of mine!  My kids who put up with my OCD and would push me out the door, and pick up a lot of the slack at home!  You guys are awesome and I love you!!!  Thank you, Thank You, THANK YOU ALL!!!  I could not have gotten to this point without your support!!!

While I Am Running …

R. Wallen, R.N.Leave a comment

 

26.2 miles long, that dead ends into a wall!!!

 

When I’m out there getting my runs in, most times I can be found running alone.  When the mileage is high, I am one of those runners that needs to talk herself through the miles … and it better be positive talk also, otherwise I’m doomed!  Lucky for me, I’m a fairly positive person who can see more good rather than impending doom.

I am a lover of quotes and great sayings.  What follows is a compilation of some of my favorite quotations and sayings that have gotten me through many miles.  Feel free to comment and add your own …

I know I am only competing with myself.
I set goals and work hard to accomplish them.
I understand the power of the human will.
I know I can face whatever road lies ahead.
I am not satisfied with the status quo.
My true self shines through.
I AM A MARATHONER.

In accordance with the prophecy, I will go the distance. XXVI.II

26.2 – I am not afraid.

Ask your Doctor if getting off your ass is right for you.

The triumph of will over reason.

There will be days when I don’t know if I can run a marathon.
There will be a lifetime of knowing that I have.

Curso, ergo sum … I run, therefore, I am.

The pain is temporary.  The pride is forever.

In my mind, I am a Kenyan.

Surgeon General Warning:  Lack of physical activity is hazzardous to your health.

The miracle is not that I finished.
The miracle is that I had the courage to start.
– John Bingham

Make friends with pain and you will never be alone.

Time is not on your side: Out run it as long as you can.

Time is always running.  Are you?

Run like hell and get the agony over with.

The greatest pleasure in life is doing the things that people say we cannot do.

Training: It’s not a matter of life or death.  It’s more important than that.

Always focus on what you CAN do, not what you can’t.

Define what victory means to you as individual, then proceed to measure your success by how close you come to it.

What’s lost by not trying and what’s lost by not succeeding are two VERY different things!

Trust the power within you and use it.  When you don’t, that’s when fear sets in …

When your legs are tired, run with your heart.

Dead Last Finish is greater than Did Not Finish, which trumps Did Not Start.

Good things come slow – especially in distance running. – Bill Dellinger

Human beings are made up of flesh and blood, and a miracle fiber called courage. – George S. Patton

I have met my hero, and (s)he is me. – George Sheehan

Running is a big question mark that’s there each and every day. It asks you, “Are you going to be a whimp or are you going to be strong today?” – Peter Maher

Runners just do it – they run for the finish line even if someone else has reached it first.

If you are going through hell … keep going … – Winston Chruchill.

All it takes is all you’ve got.

The real purpose of running isn’t to win a race, it’s to test the limits of the human heart. – Bill Bowerman

Games require skill. Running requires endurance, character, pride, physical strength, and mental toughness.   Running is a test, not a game.  A test of faith, belief, will, and trust in one’s self. So hardccore that it needs a category all to itself to define the pain.   When game players criticize, it’s because they aren’t willing to understand, not because they’re stronger.  Running is more than a sport, it’s a lifestyle. If you have to ask us why we run, you’ll never understand, so just accept.  – Jessica Propst

Brick walls are there for a reason.  They let us prove how badly we want things. – Randy Pausch

Now, if you are going to win any battle you have to do one thing.
You have to make the mind run the body.
Never let the body tell the mind what to do.
The body will always give up.
It is always tired in the morning, noon, and night.
When you were younger the mind could make you dance all night, and the body was never tired …
You’ve always got to make the mind take over and keep going.
– George S. Patton

And, last, but not least … “You Got This!”