Lists

I am not quite ready to commit to a list of New Year's Resolutions yet...I know I only have a couple of days left to decide, but procrastinating will never be something I will get rid of, so I will leave my *goals* for 2011 for the big day on Saturday...

But for now, I am going to get into the list-writing spirit by adding a couple of top tens.  Just for fun.

Top Ten Reasons I love Being Pregnant:

10: A chance for a new wardrobe?!  Yah, that new wardrobe has to be maternity clothing, but it still is a good excuse to wear some new digs?!

9: Chocolate.  I am not a fan of chocolate usually, but let it flow while I am pregnant!  Especially the dark stuff. mmmm.

8. If I am feeling unaccomplished in a day, I can always remember that I am growing a baby...at least that has to account for something?!

7. Looking at my two boys, knowing that I am going to have another little one to get to know and love just as much as I love them.

6. Daydreaming.  Allowing myself to day dream about this baby.

5. People telling me that I look "glowing".  How cute is that?!  (probably not true, but cute anyway)

4. Nesting.  I love that cleaning and preparing that comes along with babies! (really, I do!)

3. My sister and I have a 'tradition' of watching movies that have a great deal of baby footage while pregnant.  It started when she was pregnant more than a decade ago with my nephew.  She has three children, and this is my third pregnancy, so together we have watched "Baby Boom," and "Jack and Sarah" lots of times.  There have been many many other movies, but those are the best for baby footage.

2. Hearing my boys talk about the baby.  My oldest, Elliott rubs my tummy from time to time when he is hugging me or even just walking past.  I think he is excited to be a big brother again.  I can't wait to see them hold the new baby.

1. Feeling lucky and blessed.  How can you top that?!

on the other hand...

Top Ten things I don't love about being Pregnant...

10.  People commenting on how "huge" I look.  Really?

9. Heartburn.  Ugh.  The thing about heartburn that sucks more than the pain itself?  Knowing the best way to beat it is to drink a teaspoon of vinegar, straight up.  It totally works but it sucks.

8. Heavy Baby + Bladder = lots of pitstops throughout runs and life in general.  In this two weeks off of school I am getting accustomed to taking pee breaks whenever I feel the need.  I am not looking forward to being stuck in a classroom for more than an hour at a time :(

7. Maternity Clothes.  Although elastic waist bands are very comfortable, it is not comfortable to constantly pull them up :(  Pants wriggle their way down, and shirts wriggle their way up.  I feel like I am always adjusting something!

6. Naps.  Don't get me wrong, I LOVE naps.  I just don't have time to take them, and some days, I need them.

5. Random people thinking it is ok to rub my tummy.  Why does that seem like a good idea?  I would recommend getting rid of this habit, if you are one of these people that feels the urge to rub pregnant bellies!

4. Knowing that it is only a matter of time before I can't see my feet, let alone tie my shoes.  I am lucky to have a husband that is always willing to help me to get my shoes on or off!  It is actually kind of hilarious sometimes, feeling stranded with my shoes on!

3. Feeling a bit overwhelmed by all of the things left to do before my due date.  Renovations, potty training my two-year-old, and the list continues...

2. Knowing that it will take months and months to get back to a place where 10 milers are easy runs. sigh.

1. Feeling like I will be pregnant forever...

I know that my due date will be here before I know it, so I am going to focus on the first top ten list (which was actually way easier to compile) to get through the next 10 weeks!

Happy Running!

Christmas Recap

What an amazing Christmas!  It was nice to celebrate a low-key Christmas at our house, now that it is all said and done.  I have to admit, I hate it when my husband's schedule dictates how and when we see our families, and this year I was sad not to see our families on the 'big day'.  I did comment that we saved ourselves a lot of energy (and calories!) by staying home for Christmas day.  Our boys enjoyed opening their stockings with just me Christmas morning, and managed quite well throughout the day leaving their Christmas gifts alone under the tree until Papa arrived home from work.  The gift mayhem was unbelievable when he did finally arrive, but it was so cute and awesome to have Papa home to enjoy the magic of Santa gifts!

The boys early Christmas morning, eager to dig into their stockings!

We enjoyed a fantastic Christmas dinner...a roasted chicken (mmmm, the house smelled turkey-ish?) sweet potatoes, green beans, gravy, etc.  It was just festive enough for me :)  It was nice to let the boys stay in their snowman jammies all day long (they pulled up to the table, still in them!).  They asked about Grandma and Grandpa many, many times all day, but they will have a chance to celebrate the season with them next week, so we are 'spreading the love'!

It doesn't look fancy, but we did use the good china AND a table cloth!!

I am excited to have another week of holiday time...

Don't get me wrong, I LOVE my job.  I just happen to love spending time with my kids, not having to get out of yoga pants for days at a time :)  The inevitable will happen...I will have to go in to school and teach some more in January, but I am hoping to go back all refreshed and relaxed!

On Christmas day, Milo came out of the living room with some interesting ornaments...
For some reason, he grabbed a bunch of my running medals from their hiding spot in a basket, and wore them around the house for a while.  The novelty faded when more toys were opened, but still, it was kind of cute :)  Way to make Mama feel proud, kid!

I hope to get out for some running this week...I have a neighbour that is home from college, (he is on a running scholarship in the States) that is really starting to make me feel guilty.  He runs by my house every day, all fit and not-pregnant, running like he is barely breaking a sweat!!  I know he is a totally different class of crazy-runner, but it still hurts the ego a little to be gazing out the window (in the least stalker-ish way, I assure you) with a sugar cookie in one hand, and tea in the other, when he runs by in perfect form ;)

Happy Boxing day!

My belly looks like Santa's!

It's been a crazy couple of weeks around here...hence the lack of updated blog posts on my part.  Oops!  It has been a mix of that nasty cold (super-nasty when you can't take anything for it!) and spending time with my boys throughout this fun week off.  What feels nice about this week off is that there is still another week to come before heading back into work to enjoy the January blahs...

So I haven't run in terms of lacing up my running shoes, but I feel like I have been running trying to prepare for this holiday season!  I know that things will taper off over the next couple of days, and I will enjoy getting out there in this lovely weather for some quicker steps than walking!  I do hope my running clothes still fit after the holiday food, and the growing baby thing!!

This holiday is going to be a bit different around our house, as my husband will be working through most of it.  I am gearing up to convince my kids that Santa prefers it when we wait until Papa returns from work to open those oh-so-tempting presents.  I have promised my husband that I will try my best to wait until he gets home, but if he comes home to a big mess of wrapping paper and very happy children, well, at least I tried!

We are going to extend our holiday celebrating into New Year's this year, as we will be visiting Grandma and Grandpa at that time.  It will be nice to have a bit of time to relax next week before getting back into Christmas mode again :)

So, Merry Running Christmas, everyone!!
I doubt I will get out for a Christmas day run this year, but if you are thinking about going out for one, I highly recommend it.  Running down the streets on holidays is one of my favourite things.  It seems more calm, and even a little bit heroic.  I mean, most of the rest of the Western world is sitting in their living rooms eating the Christmas-day diet of chocolate and egg-nog before sitting down to a big turkey dinner!  Going out for a run makes it all that much better :)

I want to build a snow fort...

How did it become Monday again...and I haven't written anything all week?!  I guess it is that time of year...the time of year when we all seem to hurry up and start panicking over shopping lists, holiday parties, and signing Christmas cards.  It doesn't help that a lot of the province is starting to feel the cover of snow--so all of that hurrying we we are doing can be dangerous!

I just love peaceful, beautiful snowfalls, don't get me wrong.  A lovely evening snowfall while out for a run is one of my favourite things (read about other winter running-related items I love and not-so-love here).  The white covering of snow on the house and yard really makes it feel like the holidays.  Our boys are starting to get into this whole "snow" thing...

First snowman of the season...so proud

My little snow bunny

And now that Milo has started to keep his mittens on his hands, (quite a parenting feat, let me tell you!) I am quite happy to see their little noses get red while having the time of their lives running around outside in their snowsuits.

Do you ever remember running around all bundled in your snowsuit and big boots, so fast in the drifts until finally you just fell into the big piles of snow?  I just loved laying there, breathless after running around the yard, staring up at the big, blue sky.  I never remember feeling cold.  I just remember playing and digging and loving it.  My personal favourite part of that fun outdoor play, was when we finally came inside.  We would take our mittens and scarves and hats down to the basement to the wood stove, where we were to let them lay out to dry.  Before leaving them there, we would take the bits of icy snow off of the wool of our mitts, and throw it toward the stove (yes, real safe) where it would sizzle.  So awesome.

I wish I could zen myself back into that "snow play" frame of mind for every cold run that I have ahead of me this winter.  Frankly, I have to admit I get a wee bit scared of the cold as I bundle up to face the wind and elements.  Perhaps if I programmed my ipod to play some mini-pops or other music from my childhood it would be easier?!

Happy (snowy) running!

Ah, Monday

It has been a while since I wrote in this blog...but it has been a bad week for me and my friend Running.  I feel so much guilt when I haven't laced up my shoes in a few days.  It is like I have been meaning to call or get together with a good friend, and we just haven't connected.  Ugh.  I made a promise to Running that I would try to keep up with my end of the lovely relationship we have.  I owe it to Running, but more importantly, I owe it to myself.

It is just so cold outside.  I think I may have to start doing some running indoors in these approaching winter months, if I am going to hang on to regular runs until February.  I have never been a fan (and that is putting it mildly) of running on the treadmill, but I think I am going to have to force myself to do it, even if it is just during the school week, when I have access to the treadmill.  I will venture out on weekends, but that darkness that accompanies the cold during the week is a deadly combination for me and my growing belly!!

so excited--a card that plays music!

I am excited, as today is my baby's birthday.  He isn't a baby anymore...he is actually the older of my two fantastic sons, but, (here comes the cliche) he will always be my baby.  I cannot believe that exactly four years ago I was paining through labour with him (I am trying not to remember that part with the labour pain that is imminent in my near future).  I cannot believe that there was a time when I didn't know him.  From his first moments in our arms, he has been our little Elliott--cute, wise, and cheeky.  He has spent countless hours out running with me in the BOB, and now holds "races" in the yard or the house, complete with the "ready, set--GO" and imaginary medals at the "finish line".  He dances like his Papa, and loves cuddles with books.  I couldn't ask for a better big brother for Milo.  I know, I am proud :)

Elliott and Papa--one day old in 2006

He ran out of his room this morning, and said, "Mama, is it really today?  Am I really 4 years old?!"  How can you not LOVE that?!  He was so happy and proud, and I almost cried when I had to leave for work.  Ah, well.  He will still be happy and excited when I get home from work later today.  I love you, Elliott!

I am hoping to squeeze in a run before dinner (we have already been eating cupcakes for days!) so here's hoping the wind isn't crazy this afternoon!

Happy (birthday) Running!

Rain, Rain, Go Away!

Today was a mild day for November, but with the mild temperatures came rain.  I was really hoping for a nice after-school run today, but I am choosing to be a fair weather runner these days, so I skipped the run and played with the boys inside where it was nice and dry :)

So, it is official.  I have accepted the fact that having a growing family means having enough space in a car to drive around with all of my children (including the soon-to-be-born).  I took the plunge last week and purchased a new, bigger car.  I love love love my VW Passat wagon.  It is cute, comfortable, great on gas, and (most importantly) it is easy to park. Unfortunately, it only seats 2 adults and 2 car seats.  This makes me sad :( We decided to keep the Passat (my husband will drive it) and buy a larger car to tote the boys around in.

This is just a web-photo--I will add a real one soon

The Ford Flex became our new car as of Saturday when I picked it up.  It is big.  Not scary big, but bigger than I have driven in a lot of years!  I drove my dad's truck when I was in my late teens, and this car has a slightly different feel.  The pick-up truck was not quite as accommodating to my small frame--I had to sit on a pillow to reach the pedals--but I did enjoy rolling through town in it.
This new car doesn't feel huge when I am behind the wheel, and I have successfully parked it several times (including parallel parking) with success! phew!  I also am excited that I can fit the boys, their stuff, and the double BOB! (even though we'll soon need a triple?! ha ha)

I am hoping I am not too excited to drive around in my new wheels, and that I do get out on the pavement on foot for runs (ha ha) throughout the next few months!  I have an inspiration race in mind for this spring.  The Oakville Mercedes 10k on May 8th.  It will be something to strive for (or struggle for?) after the baby is born in March.  Here's hoping this baby isn't too overdue, so I can gear up for an extra week or two of training in April?

Happy Running...it is supposed to cool off this week, so bundle up!

I know I have said this before...

But some things are just worth repeating.  I am the luckiest person I know.  No, I don't win things often, (or ever!) or swim in piles of cash and jewels.  I have a life so full of wonderful people that I love, that luck must have something to do with it.

I feel lucky to have the best, most supportive parents anyone could imagine.  I have siblings (and sibling-in-laws) that are so great to be around.  Family events (and with the way my family is growing, they are events these days) are so full of laughter, stories, and fun.  My parent's house is so welcoming and full of life and I hope that one day I will have a home that my children want to come home to with their families so willingly!

I am a teacher, and I teach students that sometimes feel incredible amounts of pressure to be someone that they are not, ("My son is going to be a doctor" is something that I do hear often) and I am truly grateful to my parents for getting to know who I was as a kid, to know me well enough to encourage my strengths.  I know they were frustrated with me and my teenage antics at times, but I feel like I am the person I am today because of all of their support and love through those years.  I wasn't that good at playing baseball as a kid, but my parents didn't miss my games.  I was never afraid to show them my report cards.  They fought with me to finish dinners that I didn't want to eat (character building?!) and showed up at graduation ceremonies, big races, and snapped photos with pride.  How can I not feel lucky?!

I know, sappy stuff.  I feel that because I have this blog, I can say whatever I want, no matter how sappy it is.  So that is all I have to say for today...nothing to do with running, I know, but sometimes you have to write about just what it is that you're thinking about while out in the fresh air, running along.

It's in the air...

When my brother and I headed out this morning for a run, it was out there, all around us.  The smell of winter.  It was cool and the wind was a bit more than I wanted.  As we ran along, I remembered all of the things about winter running that I had forgotten over the heat of the summer.  I will list a few...

1.  It is harder to hear one's running companion's conversation with strong winds and hats covering the ears.

2.  It is next to impossible to obtain the perfect combination of layers.

3.  The dead of winter always guarantees at least a few long runs with frozen gatorade.  Mmmm.  Nothing is more pleasant on a -18C run than a gatorade slushie drink!

4. Dark.  It is sooo dark so early in the evening, and so late into the morning.  It really makes us all wish we could 'dream' our runs from the warmth of our beds!

5.  Cold cheeks (and I mean all cheeks!).  For some reason, no matter how many layers, a morning run out in the cold is a sure-fire way to have a frozen butt for the rest of the day :)

6.  Nothing is more perfect than a calm evening run when the snow is falling gently.  So peaceful and full of beauty.

7.  Coming home from an early morning run in the cold give one quite an accomplished feeling.  Knowing that you had the courage to face the cold before starting the day is something to brag about, really.

8.  Winter is all about comfort foods.  Comfort foods are all about calories.  Enter the winter runner.  The runner that is brave enough to head out and burn those calories!

9.  Breathing in all of that cold, fresh air makes for some good sleep at night.

10.  Winter road races always seem to have the most humorous and created 'costumes', such as Santa Suits, kilts, etc.

Thank goodness the bad comes with the good in winter running.  I did mention to my brother this morning, that I predict I will use this pregnancy as an excuse not to go out on those super cold days...

Happy running!

TGI (almost) F

November is a long month.  We are almost half-way through it, and it feels as though a long time has passed since we strolled the neighbourhood with our little trick or treat bags.  Thank goodness the weather has been so beautiful.  Going out for a run in short pants and few layers is such a treat at this time of year!

I feel silly thinking about pulling out my snow tires, but I know that old man winter is just around the corner somewhere.  Speaking of snow tires, last year I strongly considered buying snow tires for my running shoes (yaktrax).  I didn't get around to it (did I really think winter would not come again--duh?!) and I suffered out on group tempo runs on streets with packed-down snow, and the Egg Nog Jog was challenging due to the same conditions.  I think that this year is the year I should invest in those little spikes to avoid slipping.  My balance will be a bit off due to the belly as well, so anything to help keep me upright on those snowy roads will be a benefit!

snow tires for my feet?!

Ok, time to stop talking about depressing things like snow.  For now I should focus on the good things...tomorrow is Friday, and I am excited to take the boys to Grandma and Grandpa's house this weekend for a little visit.  They both just love spending time with "G & G" and I feel so lucky to be able to see them often.

Happy Weekend (almost)!

Sunny Running

I feel so lucky that we have been enjoying such beautiful weather in the last few days.  That, combined with an extra hour of sleep (in theory) makes for a lovely Sunday morning long run!  I got geared up, and filled up my water bottle.  Just before heading out the door, I grabbed my running buddy, Garmie.  When I hit the start/stop button to search for satellites, nothing happened.  I tried again.  Then again, and a again.  Then the panic set in.  Nothing was happening.  This little gadget that I have grown to love over the last couple of months is letting me down?  How could this be?!

We fiddled around with it to no avail.  I didn't want to let it hold me back from the beautiful morning waiting for me, so I headed out the door.  I was bummed, but I know I can run without it, so why depend on it?  I really do love being able to look down and track my pace from time to time throughout my run, but   at this time of year, when I am not gearing up for a race, it isn't totally necessary.  As I passed the one-mile mark on the country road I usually take, I heard a car pull up slowly.  It was my hero, along with his little mini-heros.  My husband had fixed the problem with my beloved watch (the screen froze and he just reset it) and decided to pack up the boys (still in their jammies) in the car, to deliver it to me.  How sweet :)

I headed back on my way, and was reminded of his sweet gesture every time my watch beeped to tell me another mile had passed.  I proudly kept a steady 9 min/mile pace throughout the 10k (6 mile) run.  I think 10km is about my maximum these days.  I am feeling great as I run along, but my bladder has had about as much as it can handle by that point.  Unless I make a loop that runs past my house, I may just settle in for the next couple of months at this comfortable distance.  I wish I had the time to run 10k for daily runs, but for now I will have to be happy doing 6/7km for daily runs, keeping the 10ks for the weekend :)

In other (more) exciting weekend news, my husband and I become Godparents of my nephew Ralph.  He was quite cute through the baptism, and the family time afterwards was wonderful.  I love visiting with my family.  It was great to see everyone (and eat yummy refreshments!).

Happy Monday!

25 Things about Me

Due to the fact that I don't have a lot to say about my recent runs, (which is not intended to slight my most recent running buddies--my husband and the boys this morning) I thought I would shake things up a bit and write down some (quite random, really) facts about me.  Just for fun.

25.  I grew up on a farm, but almost failed my "soil science" course in University (much to my dad's disappointment).

24.  I was the shortest kid in my class almost every year of elementary school.

23.  I backed into a parked car on the first day I had my license.

22.  I always back into parking spots, thanks to the incident mentioned in number 23.

21.  The first time my husband met my family was at my Grandmother's funeral.

20.  I was always in trouble for talking too much in class when I was a kid.  Now I am a teacher that talks too much.

19.  I hate crumpled paper.  Or crumpled napkins.  Or...the worst. thing. ever: crumpled tissue. ick.

18.  I secretly hope my kids will sleep in every morning.  This rarely ever actually happens, and I have to make a real effort to be cheery for them at 5:45 or 6am

17.  I hate the taste of mint.  I use fennel flavoured toothpaste exclusively.

16.  I love apple juice.  I could drink a litre of it in one sitting easily.

15.  I dislike the sound of whistling.

14.  I will watch reruns of Friends at every opportunity.  I laugh out loud (literally) at most of the lines from the show, even though I have seen it countless times.

13.  I wish I could travel back in time to the 1940s and 1950s.  Just to experience my parent's childhoods.  They tell me stories, but I really wish I could live it.  Even just for a day.

12.  Regardless  of how many races I have been in, I still get butterflies every time I register for a race.

11.  Often while I am driving in my car, I imagine myself running that same route.

10.  My younger son looks much like I did as a baby.  He also acts the same way (the good and the not-so-good).

9.  I love baking, but really dislike cooking (although watching the food network is fascinating to me).

8.  My older brother and sister would "tickle torture" me as a kid.  I hated it.

7.  I really love nice landscaping, but really don't have the energy for gardening.

6.  I never took swimming lessons, but I have put it on my imaginary "to-do" list.

5.   I feel very lucky to have amazing family and friends in my life.  I am thankful every day for this!

4.  I have always enjoyed daydreaming, and I wish I had more time to do it these days (thankfully I have car rides)!

3.  I love the way morning runs feel, but I also really love the way my bed feels in the morning.  The bed almost always wins.

2.  I knew I would marry my husband within a month of knowing him.  Three years later, it came true.

1.  Some days I am afraid I will smother my children because I hug and kiss them so much.  I am trying to get as much in now as I can before they embarrass more easily.

That's it.  That's 25 things.  I am so happy to have yet another weekend day tomorrow, to enjoy a nice long run and some extra family time.

Halloween Fun

Halloween was one chilly day!  M and I started the day with a long run, which was really smart considering all of the candy we would consume later in the evening!  I am so proud of the two of us, out there in the cold with our growing bellies.  We braved some fierce wind, and some hills that seem to be growing in size as we grow in size :)  Our boys love trick-or-treating together, (well, they love doing anything together) so we agreed to meet up after dinner for the big trick-or-treat fest of this year.  They have been going out together on Halloween since our oldest boys were just one year olds.  So exciting!

Because my husband had to work (I feel so bad that he missed out on such a great evening) I had the always amusing task of getting the boys all costumed up and ready to go.  Milo was not looking forward to his costume, so I had to force him into it in the end.  He did get over his sadness when the candy and treats started flowing!  All of the boys ran from house to house, Milo yelling, "Come on, Mama, Party Party!".  So cute for such a little guy.

My little mummies had a great night, and we were all exhausted by the time we reached home again.  I am so happy to have our little Halloween tradition with the kids!

Two batmans, Two mummies, ready to head out and get some loot!

I should be heading out to start to burn off all of the candy I have 'looted' from the treat bags the boys brought home!!

Somedays I really wish our house wasn't such a busy place.  It seems as though we are always coming or going.  There is always so much going on, especially throughout the school year when I have to be at work, and my husband's schedule demands weekend work every two out of three weekends.  We still manage to think we can do it all, and I just can't imagine it any other way.  Last night my husband told me that I fell asleep as soon as my head hit the pillow, and my legs were still moving, as if I was running still.  Hm. "It would be great if I could get a run in while catching up on some sleep," I thought.

So, this morning after icing some halloween cupcakes and doing general breakfast and morning things, we headed into Guelph for the 'Devil's Run'.  It is a 5km Cross-Country race that has an open category as well as University runners.  My husband was all set to run the race, and the boys and I were ready to cheer!

The boys love cheering from the BOB

It was a cold, but sunny morning, and we were quite a bundled little cheering section.  The course was sort of a figure-eight loop, so after the starting gun went off, we settled in at the intersection of the loop, so we could cheer him on three times throughout the 5k course.  The boys were so proud to yell, "Go Papa Go!"  Just after he finished (a PB for him--yay!) we had to head back to the car so he could rush home and get ready to go to work.  yeesh!

note the kid in the yellow shirt--too cute :)

In the race there was a little boy, running his heart out.  He did very well, and finished looking strong.  It made us hope that our boys have some interest in running when they are (a bit) older.  I just hope I am making them tired of all things running-related by taking them to races, and running around the neighbourhood with them all the time ;)

almost to the finish--just one more huge hill!

We are proud of you, Papa!  Way to go on a fun race day!

Happy running, and trick-or-treating!  Stay warm, it's gonna be a cool one :)

Busy Weekend (again)

This weekend was a busy one, (but fun) with lots of catching up with friends.  Saturday afternoon, we celebrated at a party for my friend Vanessa, who's husband had a surprise party for her, in honour of her first marathon (aw! How sweet)!  By the time I returned home from the party, I was inspired all over again to hit the road in another marathon.  How does that happen?!  It is crazy to think that I am eager to get out there and pound another 42.2 kilometers into my shoes, but I just can't wait to take another stab at it.  Of course, there will be a baby, recovery from said baby, painful miles and miles of preparation, etc. between me and my next attempt.  I can't wait though.  I think hearing someone else's race experience is so inspiring (perhaps that is why I read so many blogs?). 

Sunday morning was a fun run with my family (the boys were so cute tucked in under a blanket, still in their jammies)!  It was foggy, but perfect.  We ran around the neighbourhood and enjoyed the calmness that fog brings.  My husband is running a 5km cross-country race this weekend, so it was nice to catch up with him about his race goals and plans.  My boys counted pumpkins as we ran along, and it was so cute to see them so excited about Halloween.  Their costumes are still 'works in progess' so I must get on that tonight!

Last night I was fortunate enough to experience some athletes of a different kind, at a live taping of the show, "Battle of the Blades".  The show, if you haven't watched it, (you should, it is quite entertaining!) is a CBC-produced skating show where they take accomplished figure skaters, and pair them with accomplished NHL hockey players to perform fancy pairs figure skating acts.  Sort of a "Dancing with the stars"-with-ice-sports-involved idea. How Canadian is that?!  I am not really a hockey-watcher, but I have always watched figure skating, so it was awesome to watch.  I had to keep reminding myself that these hockey players had zero experience in figure skates before coming on the show.  It was truly amazing!  And we saw a few other Canadian celebrities while we were there, which was fun.  Thanks to my friend Vanessa (she is a star of my blog these days!) for inviting me :)

Running is one of the only athletic endeavors I have ever stuck to.  I try to imagine getting out of my comfort zone to try something completely different, like those hockey players.  It is hard for me to think about trying, let alone showing a TV audience!  I think my most-challenging opposite sport would be swimming.  It is crazy, as so many runners are swimmers also, but I just never have been, and I haven't really had the desire to be.  I keep thinking somewhere in my mind that swimming might be something I will learn to be good at when I am 40.  I don't know why, but that seems far enough away that I don't have to worry about it, but close enough that I can still make it a goal.  We'll see.

After that busy weekend, I am exhausted!  I am looking forward to a run after school with my friend M.  Hopefully it is not raining and we can enjoy an energy-boost together!

Happy (foggy) running!

Race Shopping

It is an odd feeling not to have a race coming up to look forward to, and to train toward.  I did have the Angus Glen Half Marathon slotted in for November, but it looks like it just isn't going to happen due to a very exciting family even that is happening the same day (races are great, yes, but becoming the God-parent of my beautiful nephew is something that takes priority)!

As the weather gets cooler, and the races start to 'dry-up' in these parts, and my belly gets more huge, I am feeling the need to find that one more race I had promised myself.  I would love a 10k or 10 mile before Christmas.  There is always the Egg Nog Jog in Georgetown in December, but I do have a fear of all of those hills :)
We'll see.  Any suggestions?

My husband will be running a couple of 5k races within the next month, and I am excited to be a spectator again (Sunday's marathon spectating was fun)!  I would run along with him, but I think my job is to cheer and encourage our boys to cheer :)

So as I run along without a race in mind, I still am enjoying the time I spend out on the road.  I am still enjoying the nice autumn weather, and the fact that I am not yet super-slow.  I am starting to notice other people in my neighbourhood noticing my belly, (I have even seen a couple of double-takes when M and I are out running together with our pregnant bellies) but I will keep running along, taking it one step at a time!

Happy running!

Toronto Goodlife Marathon Spectator Report

What a beautiful day for a run!  Or a beautiful day to watch a run?  Spectator day was just fantastic.  I picked up my friend Lori at 8:30am, and (after a quick trip to Tim Horton's) we were on the road to the race.  Traffic was smooth sailing as we got a great spot on a side street and walked toward Yonge St.  We weren't there long before the leaders were headed our way.  Wow, they run fast!  We held up our signs in one hand, and our hot beverages in the other.  I can't count how many races I have been in, jealous of those people out enjoying the sunny day with their coffee in hand, clapping and cheering.  It felt so nice to be one of them :)

Although we didn't seem to get any photos at that first stop (too much excitement trying to scope out our friend Vanessa) we certainly got into the groove of cheering.  Before long, we decided to get back in the car and head to our next stop at the 11km mark.  We weaved along through some very nice Toronto neighbourhoods and made it to stop number two.  We met up with my husband, who looked more "official" than Lori and myself, as he was working at the time.  He stood with us as we waited for Vanessa to round the bend.  She looked FANTASTIC!!

Vanessa looking great at the 11km mark!

Our next stop was going to be on the Lakeshore at the 29km mark, so we had a bit of time to get there.  We had an easy time navigating through traffic, so we thought we would get to the Lakeshore a bit early and watch more of the runners going by.  It also gave me extra time to get my costume and props ready!

Getting geared up

We set up camp on the path, and watched and cheered.  Lots of runners got a kick out of my costume, which was exactly why I chose to wear it!!  I gave out orange slices (I should have brought LOTS more, as many more people were willing to take orange slices from a complete stranger than I expected!!).  Lori ran the camera, and she did a great job taking photos.  I could not have done both!  Unfortunately I didn't get a photo of Lori :(  She was there, I promise!!

As a bunch of grapes, giving out orange slices!

Vanessa had a great run.  She looked very strong when I last saw her at the 32km mark.  I had to run after her for about 400m, and let me tell ya, running along the Lakeshore in a big grape costume is even more entertaining to runners than just standing there!!  I don't recommend wearing maternity jeans while running.  The waist band will shimmy down very quickly!

By the time I returned home from all of the excitement, I was tired.  Just watching all of those people running was exhausting!!  I wanted to crash for the rest of the day!  Of course, that just isn't an option in my world, and how could I crash, when M and I were planning a run this afternoon?  We had a great (but very windy) 7 mile run this afternoon, again, without any potty breaks!!  I know these pit-stop-free run days are numbered, with my belly growing like it is, but I am just so happy not to have to find an extra-deep ditch!

Have a great recovery, those that ran today.  I know I need some recovery just from the excitement of the day!!

Can't wait to Spectate!!

It is the night before the Toronto Goodlife Marathon, and although I am not running, I am barely able to sleep because I am so excited!  I am going to go as a spectator, to cheer and make a fool of myself (costume may be included--but more on that post-race) while enjoying the race atmosphere.  My friend Lori is joining me, so it should be a great morning!  I love that this race starts at 9am (an hour and a half later than the marathon I ran last month!) so I don't have to drag myself out of bed super early to get there in time.  I also love that my mom is taking care of the boys, so I don't have to drag them all over Toronto!

This race will always hold a dear place in my heart, as I ran the half-marathon in this race last year, and although it was a super-cold day, it was one of my best races to date.  I ran well, felt really strong, and really felt like I was performing well throughout the entire thing.  I am sad to see this race fall off the "fall race" map (it is moving to the spring as of 2011) because it means I won't be running it next year (running even a half-marathon just over a month post-labour is a wee bit too ambitious, even for a crazy person like me)!

As I listen to the radio in these days leading up to the race, I hear the animosity people feel toward their dear roads being closed for races such as this one.  "Stay tuned for tips on how to deal with the traffic turmoil in the city's second marathon in just 3 weeks, or, "The city will be a mess for drivers this Sunday due to the marathon," etc.  Common, people.  It is a Sunday morning.  How many of us really need to be driving downtown so early on a Sunday?  How about taking a moment to honour all of the early Sunday mornings us runners have dedicated to this race?

My husband's job occasionally takes him to the front line of people fed up with traffic headaches.  He witnessed first-hand, some very angry drivers last year during one of the fall marathons in Toronto.  When he came home from work, he was talking about just how upset some people get, and how it was very hard to deal with their complaints and rage.  Of course, these angry people don't get much sympathy from people in my husband's line of work, but that isn't the point.  I know that I am biased because I am a runner, but it angers me that as runners we work soooo hard for sooo many months leading up to these races.  We pay good money to take part in these races.  It all boils down to the morning of the race.  As I run along the streets with other runners, with my head up toward that finish line, I like that it is all about us taking over the street, working toward our goals.  Cars have no place in that.  In training, as runners, we deal with all sorts of auto-centric problems.  Cars driving past through puddles, splashing us at the side of the road.  Cars blindly backing out of driveways without seeing us (how many times have I had a close call with a bumper?!).  Drivers neglecting to check their blind spot at intersections making a right-turn on a red.  The list goes on.  Marathon Road Closure Day is our day to win back those streets!!  Marathon road closures should be called, "Auto-Centric Apology Day".  I am a driver.  I live in a two-car family.  I am not claiming that I don't hate traffic hold-ups.  I just refuse to take out my frustration on pedestrians that are already at a disadvantage.

That's all I am going to say about that.  I should really go to bed so I am fresh for all of the cheering and hoopla of the morning.  I can't wait!!!

*I should add that I have enjoyed the lovely weather this week has turned out.  This morning's sunshine was sooo wonderful to run in!!


Stay tuned for some post-spectating pics!!

Thanksgiving Hangover

Wow...it is amazing how many times one can think, "it's ok, I am eating for two!" over the food eating holiday we like to call Thanksgiving.  The important thing I have to keep in mind, is that I am eating for two, not like two.  We had such a great time visiting my parent's house, where the boys just love to get out and run around on the farm, and enjoy all of the spoiling that comes along with hanging with Grandma and Grandpa.  It is also a great time to get a good run in with my brother.  We headed out Sunday morning (gorgeous weather!!) for a ten mile run that turned into just over 11 miles.  We ran through the tiny town (ok, village) near my parent's farm called Brigden.  This town has a population of about 500 people, and every thanksgiving weekend, the town bursts at the seams for a fall fair that attracts over 50,000 people.  When we ran past the fairgrounds on Sunday morning, there were people getting ready to start the day, but it was still calm.  The rides on the midway hadn't started moving yet, and the cotton candy wasn't yet ready.



Scott and myself (and belly), ready to head out on a beautiful day!

 We didn't stop in at the fair, as we were busy enjoying the run and chatting away.  And, how could I go and enjoy the fair without the company of my boys?!  They just love all that fairs entail...who wouldn't?!  Candy apples, farm animals, and giant pumpkins on display!

Scott and I finished our run at an average pace of 9:20/mile--which is slower than Scott would normally run, but he didn't complain once.  I guess he knows better than to complain about the pace to the pregnant lady :)

The best post-run food happens to be coma-inducing turkey dinner, I must say.  We ate very well, thanks to my wonderful parent's cooking.  Squash from the garden, my sister-in-law's quinoa dish, my aunt's layered jello, and, of course, the turkey!  Top it off with my dad's homemade cinnamon buns, and you are sure to feel like you can't move, let alone run, for days to come!  As luck would have it, we do get hungry again, and the leftovers are there to remind us of that full feeling :)

When we finally returned home, we took advantage of the lovely weather and did some Halloween decorating to our front porch.  My oldest, Elliott is sooo into Halloween this year.  He was thrilled to assist hanging ghost lights, placing pumpkins in the garden and insisting that we "need more" scary stuff before Halloween arrives.  Don't even get me started on the battle of his costume.  I refuse to believe that I will lose and he will end up as spiderman, or a ghost (his only two options at the moment).  I am a huge fan of making my boys match, and having two little matching turtles was what this mama had in mind.  I have been trying to compromise, but I would just hate to see him go out as spiderman like all of the other kids in his class :)  I know, turtles are cute for toddlers, and perhaps dorky for big boys that are almost 4 years old, but I was hoping to hold on to this matching thing for at least one more year?!

Happy Back-to-work day.  I am stuck with an awful cold that has left me with very little in the voice department.  I hope my voice returns before the marathon on Sunday, when I am gearing up to cheer on my friend Vanessa!!

Track Tuesday

Tonight was track night, as Tuesdays from April to November usually are.  I haven't been out to the track in over a month, due to attempting to keep a moderate pace through regular tempo runs, and a tiny bit of hurt pride in not being able to run as fast around that track now that I am toting this belly with me.

The last time I ran at the track was the August 3km time trial, which went fairly well, all things considered.  I will consider that run my last attempt at such a thing while pregnant, so tonight I decided to go out to the track to cheer on my husband, and the others as they rounded the track and gave it their best.

My boys just love that track.  Milo couldn't get out of his car seat fast enough after we pulled into the parking lot.  "Running, Running!" he said, as he set foot on the rubber track.  The two boys ran down the lanes like they were racing each other.  It was cute, but I knew it was going to be hard to wrangle them in to the double BOB when the time trial started (thank goodness for food items to bribe them into the buggy!).  For the duration of the run, the boys and I ran through the field in the middle from one side of the track to the other, cheering from each side.  Elliott cutely said, "Go Orange team!" to the man in the orange shirt, "Go blue team!" to the woman in the blue shirt, and so on.  So funny!

It was nice to catch up with some running buddies after a bit of a break from the track, but it did make me miss it.  I was complaining about 'missing running' on the car ride home, and I was reminded that I am not really 'missing running' lately.  I did just finish the marathon a week ago, I know, but it just seems different.  There are things I do miss, such as running in clothes that fit properly, (not tight and riding up in the belly) finishing a run feeling like I really pushed myself to the limits, (that just isn't in the plan these days, obviously!) and making ambitious (sometimes lofty) goals for upcoming races.  It is silly, really, as I know I should be taking advantage of this time to relax a bit!  I know I will be happy that I am not running super long runs as the weather gets really cold and snowy (soo nice to imagine skipping a 20-40km run on those cold and windy days of winter!).

I have bounced back from Maternity running twice before, so I know I will survive it.  I am excited to have a new little one this spring/summer to cheer me on at races!

The weather is supposed to be warmer as the week moves forward, so I can't wait to get out in shorts a few last times before they are packed away for the cold weather :)

Happy Running!

Short Long Run day!

Today was long run day.  It was quite strange, this morning, knowing that my long run would be so short in comparison to the long runs of the last few months was a strange, but good feeling.  My friend M joined me, and we hit the road/gravel by 8am.  I completed the entire run with a toque on, as it was a chilly one this morning!  It was such a great run.  We laughed and chatted through our 10 miles, and although the wind picked up and worked against us in the last half, it was brightening up and turned into a nice day.

We talked about running with bellies, and other's perceptions of what we should or shouldn't be doing while pregnant.  I know I have talked about this before, but it is a topic that seems to be coming up lots in my life lately, and I just can't get over the opinions people feel they are entitled to share sometimes.  I am not racing for PBs (enter the PPB!) or the gold medal.  I am running in races, sure.  But I am running within the limits my body is capable of.  My goal within each run that I do, whether it's a 5k run around the neighbourhood with the boys, or half-marathon with a chip on my shoe, is to finish feeling strong and not too overworked. I actually enjoy taking this time to relax a bit.  Skipping speed work at the track over the last month has been kind of a nice break.  Taking an extra recovery day here and there is a nice break.  That's what it's about for me.  I like to think that I don't look crazy out there running while pregnant, but I would like it if people would just keep that opinion to themselves sometimes.  I certainly feel like pregnant women give up a lot for those nine months, (most of it necessary, of course) but staying healthy through running does not fit into those "forbidden" items!

At the end of the run, my good friend M did a 'wive's tale'-type test with my hands to determine the gender of our unborn baby.  Someone had just taught her this highly scientific and very accurate test, so she thought she would share.  So, now I know the gender of our baby! phew!  I am all about trusting any test that can be done on a cold morning at the end of my driveway :)

The bonus about our run being so much shorter this morning, was all of the extra time I had afterwards.  We took the boys to the Butterfly Conservatory in Breslau, ON.  It was such a great outing on a fairly cold day.  The boys just loved it, and so did we.  We will definitely go back, but next time, we will try to remember to keep the camera in the house before going instead of the car (duh) as it was so cold, that the lenses fogged up when we got into the tropical atmosphere of the indoors, so we did not get any photos. Boo!

Here's to a good Monday, tomorrow!

Rearview Milo

Two Runs Thursday

This morning was my school Terry Fox Run!  It was fantastic to see everyone out for a 2k walk, or 4k run.  I have only done one easy run since the marathon on Sunday, so I was eager to get out and continue to loosen my leg muscles.  It was a perfect morning for a run (seems to be a trend lately--yay!) so we headed out on our way, running quite quickly.  High school students seem to take off in a hurry at the starting line :)  Some were ready for the run, and some obviously chose to run at the last minute, as they were decked out in jeans (one kid even had a leather jacket, and held a basketball the whole time!).  I am proud of my run, as I was the first female finisher in the 4k!

I am proud of my homeroom class as well.  They were asked to bring in a toonie each, but my class outdid themselves, and brought more than $3.00 each!  And, extra bonus proudness...the student that brought in a $40.00 donation!!  What a fantastic day of fundraising in the name of Terry Fox!

I rushed home in time to squeeze in a run with my friend M, as the two of us haven't run together in a while.  It was great to get out and run the neighbourhood with someone else that has a growing belly :)  It has been nice to enjoy a few short runs...I seem to have more spare time on my hands, which is a welcome change.  I will try to keep runs of more than 10 miles to weekends only for the next few months as a way of conserving energy throughout the week.

TGIF (tomorrow)!!

Onwards and Upwards

It is now 48 hours post-marathon, and I am starting to feel like my legs are normal(ish).  I will probably attempt an easy run tomorrow, so in the mean time, I will enjoy this couple of days with no runs to squeeze in :)

I am still just as hungry as I was when I crossed the finish line.  I just can't seem to feel full.  I forgot about that feeling, post-marathon.  This race was the first time I have ever actually heard my stomach growwllinng in the last couple of kilometers.  I was fuelling efficiently enough, but my stomach (and perhaps the baby?) wanted real food by the end of the race!  Bananas, cookies and dry bagels were certainly a disappointment at the finish line, but next to the gourmet meal I was dreaming of, nothing was going to stack up!  So here I sit at 10am, snacking on hummus and crackers, counting down until lunch time.

I think I am going to plan one more race before I settle for regular runs for the remainder of this pregnancy.  It is quite convenient that there aren't a lot of races in my area throughout the winter, so I won't jealous of people out at the starting line in February.  I am going to sign up for the Angus Glen Half Marathon in November.  One of my close friends (who is also pregnant) will be running in that race, so I am going to join her. 

I do have plans to go to the Goodlife Toronto Marathon to cheer all of the hard working runners on in October.  It was so amazing to have friends, family and complete strangers cheering for me on Sunday, the least I can do is join the sidelines and cheer for everyone that is doing it in a couple of weeks!  I have a friend who is running the marathon, so I hope to see her and offer her my (loud) support!

Happy (rainy) running, if you're out there today.  Before I go, I will share my favourite quote from the race on Sunday.  My husband told my eldest, Elliott that they had to quickly head to the next location to see Mama.  "But we've already cheered for her like, three times today!" 

Glad to see they've inherited my enthusiasm :)

The baby made me PB! yay! (It's long, but there are pictures)

After all of the pain and the Glory, me and my medal!

I kind of forgot about the pain.  Having had two children, I can say that the marathon is a wee bit like childbirth, in that during the hard work and pain of it all, you wonder things like, "how did I get myself into this?" or "When will it ever end?!" or "Why does my husband look so chipper, when I hurt sooo much?!"  I have thought these things during both child birth and the marathon.  Then it happens.  The baby is born, and all of that pain is forgotten.  Or...the finish line comes, the glory of that medal is around your neck, and all of that pain is forgotten.  I know there was pain out there today, but I can't describe it now.

So.  A lot happens in 26.2 miles.  I will try not to bore everyone with too much babbling on, but I can say that I am still in excited mode, so I may go on and on a tiny bit :)

The race started with a small Garmin-related catastrophe.  I had it all set up when the starting gun went off, but it took me about 4 minutes to reach the start mat, so my watch went into power-save mode by that point, and I hadn't noticed.  It took me almost an entire minute to fix things, (I was completely panic-stricken!) but I just mentally made note of that and kept running (of course).  The first mile or so was very crowded, and when I glanced down at my watch, it told me I was at a 4:40 pace.  "Huh?!"  I then realized that my beloved Garmin was now calculating my pace/KM?  How on earth did I do that?  Did I somehow press a wrong button in my panic?  I have no idea what my pace should be based on km.  I made a mental note to figure that out for future races, but considered myself screwed in the meantime.
Then, as if by magic, it went back to normal.  I can only assume someone else's Garmin in the crowd interfered with mine, as it did happen a couple of other times when I was in a crowd throughout the race.

By mile 2, things were looking good.  I had settled into a nice pace, the weather was just beautiful, and I was looking forward to seeing my boys at the 10k mark (I was wearing a long-sleeved shirt that I knew I would have to pass off).  They were stationed with bright posters and smiling faces.  It was so nice to see!  My husband was snapping photos just as I had put a GU chomp in my mouth, so some of the photos are rather unfortunate, but it's all part of the race experience, I suppose :)
I then heading out sans long-sleeved shirt toward the turn-around point.  I knew it would be all the way until the 30km mark that I would wait to see my boys, but that was ok.  BUT...to my complete surprise, as I approached the 14 (or 15?)km mark, I spotted a different familiar face!  It was my brother and his little one, Lyla!!  Of course I got a bit teary, knowing they had driven about 3 and a half hours just to get there!!  He ran along beside me with Lyla in the BOB for about half a kilometer, while I blabbed on about the race so far.  I still can't believe he went to all of that effort to come and cheer.  It really boosted me through the next 16kms until I saw everyone again.

Oh, so fresh looking at the 11k mark!

When it came to the 'dividing point', when the half-marathon/marathon split, I felt like it was a, "ok, this is it!" moment.  As we made the turn, I could feel it in the air around me.  Many of us were thinking the same thing.  "What have I done?!"  Then I looked up to see the 18km marker.  Wow.  That went by quickly.  Here's hoping the next 18km goes by just as fast!

It didn't.

But that is ok.  It was actually not bad at all.  Lots to look at, and I was feeling so great.  Sure, my legs have felt better, but what does one expect, running that far?!

As I passed by port-o-lets on occasion, (NOT at every water station, like they promised on their website, I might add) I was so impressed with myself.  I didn't have to stop at any of them!!  Perhaps it was my motivation to stay out of them, (yes, like the rest of the world, I find them quite disgusting) or maybe I was getting just that dehydrated?  Either way, it has been impossible for me to do a run of any real length lately without visiting a Tim Horton's, a corn field, or a secluded ditch, so I thought I would make note of that as one of the highlights of this particular race :)

Before I knew it, I approached the anticipated 30km mark.  My brother had met up with my husband and the boys, but they had more special spectators with them!!  Seriously, it was a party at the side of the road that included my favourite people!  But I couldn't stay :(  I had this darn race to run!!  My dear friend Lori, her cute son Keith and her husband Austin were there to cheer!  What a great surprise.  Thanks guys.  You really make me want to do this all again, just to feel so special.

Kind of scary look on my face, waving to my 'fans'

I thought all of that excitement was going to push me through the next 5km, no problems.  Unfortunately, I really started to feel it on the next little out-and-back the course had to offer.  I don't know if it was the fact that I could see so many people coming back from the 5km that I still had to run, but mentally it was tough.  I just had to break it down mile by mile, and focus on making it back to the 36km mark when I would see my family again.  It worked.  I slowed down a bit in this last stretch, but I still felt good, and I knew I had lots left to make it to the finish.

When I saw everyone again, I assured them that I was feeling great, and they were so positive and happy.  This meant so much to me.

Check out my brother on the right (jeans holding Lyla)!

The people that cheer at the side of the road in this last part of the race are amazing.  They know just what to say.  It is like they have all been through it and they know how it feels to be 5km from 'home free'.  Those 5km went by a lot slower for me than the first 5km, but that is expected.  With every km that passed, I was more and more excited.  I am going to do this thing.  Well under my B goal.  Woot Woot!!

Running through St. Lawrence Market was quite special.  All of the balloon banners, the people, the music!  What a great push to the end.

I could not believe how many people were lining Bay street as I rounded the corner.  In hindsight, I know I really wasn't running that fast, and that it was really just a lot of 'arm-pumping' on my part to feel like I was pushing it, but did it ever feel great.  Lots of "You go girl" shouts from the crowds.  I am quite sure that there will be lots of people with cracking voices tomorrow from all of the yelling they did today :)

The finish line came, and I almost cried when I saw the time displayed.  I did it!  The baby did it!!  I don't have to do it again for a long time!! yay!

Lori checking out my 'wares' in the finish area

The numbers...

time: 3:53:44 (gun time 3:57:23)
place: 997 (out of 2713)
category place: 48/175
gender place: 228/1031

All in all, super YAY!!  It was a fantastic day, and I would do it all again in a heartbeat, even with the pregnant belly.  Not ideal, sure, but it makes for a great story to share with the little one when they arrive!  If this baby doesn't become a runner, you can't say I didn't try!!

The Marathon is (gulp) tomorrow!

A quick post to talk goals, and to freak out one last time...

I just returned from picking up my race kit.  I am impressed with the way everything was so organized, and even more impressed that I got a shirt in the right size (this rarely seems to happen for me!).  As we drove along the Lakeshore on the way, I started to visualize myself running along there tomorrow.  No problem, right?!  I should still be nice and fresh at that point.  My husband is starting to visualize himself making it to all of the cheering points we have decided on, and frankly, I think my job will be easier, just running along!  He is the one that has to organize the boys into the BOB.  Hopefully they will cheer on all of the runners they see, and avoid any melt-downs!

I still haven't decided on an exact pace for tomorrow.  I would LOVE to run under 9 minute miles, but we'll see.

Ok, time for goals.  I will add that my time goals for this race have evolved over the last couple of months.  Before finding out about my growing belly, I would have been ambitious enough to post goals around the 3:20-3:30 mark.  No such luck anymore :)  I will revisit those goals someday again, but not at this point in my life!!  With that said, my goals are...

goal C--to finish upright and moving!

goal B--under 4 hours

goal A--under 3:45

I know that my A goal is ambitious, but that is why it is in the "A" spot.  I will be very proud to finish the race at any time.  I have been feeling my speed slow with each passing week of my training, but I do still feel strong.  I think that is the important thing.  Slow. Strong. Steady.  Yay!

I can't wait to write my next post, as it means I will be typing about the race in past tense!!

A Run Down Memory Lane

Lining up at the starting line more than 10 years ago

When I ran my very first marathon (in May of 2000) my goal was to finish the race.  My brother and I ran the race together.  Later in the race, when I was really feeling the pain, I told him to go ahead and I would see him at the finish line.  He insisted that we run together, and he stuck with me until we completed the race in 4:18.  I know Scott could have left me in the dust much sooner, but he didn't.  Our parents were so proud (and relieved, frankly) when we crossed the line.  It was mother's day, and our mom selflessly let us take big naps at the hotel while she and my dad saw the local sights after the race.  It was such a proud day.   I even remember calling the *guy* I had just started dating, to tell him about my big accomplishment.  Perhaps that is why he ended up marrying me?!

8 years ago, before heading to the start

That marathon was one of my first road races.  I guess Scott and I decided to go big for our first race!  After that race we ran a few other road races, but geared up for another marathon.  Our second marathon was 2 years later (Ottawa again).  We trained separately, and planned to run on our own.  We didn't really see each other after the starting line, and I knew he was well on his way to a great race.  This time I had a time goal of under 4 hours.  I made my goal (just--3:58:50) and Scott came in well under 3:30.  Of course our parents were there to cheer us on, and my dad was even sweet enough to bring warm clothing to the finish area so we wouldn't get a chill after the race.  Although I loved the feeling of finishing that race, I decided when it was all over that I would like to tone it back to half marathons (or shorter) for a while.  I thought I may do more marathons, but I was in no rush to get back out and train for another one anytime soon.
Well.  Eight years, a teaching degree, a husband, two children and one-on-the way later, the time has come, it seems!

A lot can happen in 10 years.  Some things don't change, though.  I am still wearing the Asics Nimbus, I still hate gels, and I still enjoy running with my brother Scott.  Although Scott can't make it to the race on Sunday, I have enjoyed running with him over the last few months, and I can't wait to run more races together after this baby comes along :)

On a side note...my tempo run was great the other night, and I am looking forward to an easy run tomorrow.  Then it will be off to the races, literally!

Stay tuned for race goals...

Is it too early in the week to freak out about the marathon?

This morning I realized that the week before the marathon should be one of little stress.  Unfortunately, I am feeling the opposite this week.  My oldest has started junior kindergarten officially, and today was his first bus ride.  Wow.  I know I have had my eyes open to him growing up, but I feel like a bundle of emotions when it comes to him taking this big leap.  WHEN did this happen?  HOW did my baby become a kid?  I can't look at a school bus without feeling tears well up in my eyes.  And trust me, as a teacher, I see a lot of busses these days!

My baby, in the brown hat.  FIRST bus ride!!

So.  Marathon.  Emotional Roller-coaster.  Laundry to do.  Hydration to think about.  Sleep patterns to maintain.  Lesson plans.  Fire drills.  Lunches to pack.  Noses to wipe.  The list could continue...

I have decided to focus on one or two things each day until the race.  Tonight, I would like to sit down and make a "game plan" for my favourite spectators on race day.  I know I will want to see my boys during the race (hopefully around the 37km mark, when I always seem to need a pick-me-up) so we must get organized!  My husband knows Toronto waaaay better than me, so I am hoping he can navigate the best route possible to spectate (is that a word?). 

I went out last night and bought some last-minute electrolytes (GU chomps, etc) for race day, and I think I have my race day hydration plan under control.  I am still deciding whether to wear my new running shoes for the race (they served me very well for my long run on Sunday).  Is a week worth of "taper-running" enough to 'break' them in?  We are talking about 26 miles here. 

My goal of being in bed by 10pm has been successful for the one night I have tried it, so here's hoping I can continue that trend through the week (heck, it would be nice to continue that forever...but I need to be realistic). 

I am hoping to head out for a tempo run tonight to remind my legs that running fast(ish) is ok for race day.  The weather is supposed to be nice on this final day of summer!  Enjoy it!!

The Belly that went for a Run

In a little over a week, I will be lining up at the start of the marathon.  I am already starting to feel nervous.  I am really excited to do this race, as I have been training for months and with the "baby on board" aspect of things, I think sooner is better than later to tuck this race under my (growing) belt.  Of course I wish I was even more prepared, (I haven't been doing track work in the last few weeks) but this is a time for me to roll with the punches and run this race to finish feeling my best, not neccessarilly striving for a personal best!  I guess it could be a PPB (pregnant personal best)?

I am hoping that this nice cool weather hangs around until next week, as I really feel I run best without too much heat (I know I am not alone)!  That said, I feel unprepared in the "outfit" department, as I haven't planned what to wear (sooo not like me).  I am desperate to find some nice maternity running wear, and I just can't seem to find any selection.  This being my third running pregnancy, one would assume I have aquired some items, but my selection consists of oversized race shirts and shorts that ride a little low.  Legend has it that Nike used to make maternity running wear, but I am yet to see it! 

I am not super-big in the belly at this point, but it is definitely too hard to hide anymore.  I suppose I will look like the woman who hydrated with beer during my marathon training ;)

Have a great weekend of running!  I am planning a nice taper-friendly long run with my brother Scott on Sunday, hopefully in a new pair of running shoes.  Finger's crossed I can find my beloved Nimbus in a size 6 this time!!

Friendship that lasts for miles and miles

Both yesterday and today I was able to run with a good running friend.  The two of us have been running together for more than three years now.  It is really amazing how time flies when you are having fun, putting in the miles!
When I moved to the little town I now call home, I had a seven-month-old baby, and lots of ambition to get back into consistent running shape.  I had been running with Elliott for months, but always seemed to have a reason not to get out on a regular basis (go figure, with the wee-one to distract me!).  I decided I needed a running group to motivate me.  So, one evening before heading out for a little family walk, I scribbled up some flyers that said something to this effect, "Mommy looking for other mommies to run with kiddies in buggies"  and I left the usual tabs with my email address.  I posted them on the mail boxes around my neighbourhood, and hoped for the best.
The next day, I received an email from M.  She told me a bit about herself, and her one-year-old boy, and after a couple of back-and-forths, we had a running date planned.  Our first run (it seems so crazy now to think back on the two of us with just one baby each!) was very chatty, and we seemed to connect as if we had been running together for years.  Although she was faster than me, I tried my best to keep up and not look too winded!
Within a week or two, we were running together almost every day.  We would run when the boys woke up from their naps, and sometimes the runs would end in a trip to the park, or a play date.  It is amazing how much I looked forward to that time in the day when I could chat with another mom, and get some exercise while doing it!
One baby turned into two for M, then for me, and soon we were out running with double BOBs (hers orange, mine blue) and a total of four boys.  Our oldest boys love playing together, and we have to be mindful to seat them so they can be *beside* each other on the run (this makes for easy 'passes' of toys). We have heard such encouraging words from passers by as we run down the streets, like, "wow, run some miles for me" or, "some day they'll push you!"
M and I have enjoyed relaxing yoga sessions and runner's bootcamps in the winter, and crazy long runs out in wind so cold and brutal that we had to run backwards.  We have used each other's houses for emergency pit-stops, (for ourselves and our kids) shared snacks when the kids are just sooo hungry or impatient out on some runs.  We have shared life experiences, advice, funny stories, and relentless rain storms.  Over the last month or so, with vacations and baby bumps (yep, she is having another baby too) our schedules haven't aligned as often as usual, and I have definitely felt it!  I am hoping we can fall into a routine of running together more often again, as it is just so much more fun to chat with such a great friend as we run along.
I should be adding a photo of M and myself out on a run, but I just can't seem to find one.  I guess we are just so busy grabbing toys and snacks for the boys, that we never seem to snap a pic!

So, here's to great running friends.  I know that I am a better runner because of M.  I am a better mom because of M.  This running thing we do is about so much more than pounding the miles into the ground.  Running with people we care about makes us so willing to come back for more :)