tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73002292585080595102024-03-14T00:30:44.218-07:00Musings of a Runner GirlTiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03085044548210730897noreply@blogger.comBlogger187125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7300229258508059510.post-55352379990482832862013-05-31T18:29:00.000-07:002013-05-31T18:29:42.884-07:00Tacoma City Marathon<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1Wz56K2rKDw/UalDX1mLaJI/AAAAAAAACNg/xsm1oIpQsX0/s1600/spring+2013+165.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1Wz56K2rKDw/UalDX1mLaJI/AAAAAAAACNg/xsm1oIpQsX0/s400/spring+2013+165.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love the shirt and LOVE the personalized bib!!</td></tr>
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As the days leading up to the marathon on May 5th kept getting warmer and nicer I was starting to get a little worried- and irritated. Seems each time I run a marathon we have unseasonably warm weather! Not much I could do about it though so I just hydrated all week long and made a few tweaks to my race day outfit and was thankful that the race started at 7am (last time it was 9!). <br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i9leo1XPpJ0/UalDaFJsaKI/AAAAAAAACNo/K01kekqMvQs/s1600/spring+2013+167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i9leo1XPpJ0/UalDaFJsaKI/AAAAAAAACNo/K01kekqMvQs/s400/spring+2013+167.JPG" width="373" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our race course. I live less than a mile from several points on this course!</td></tr>
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I decided less was best and really wanted to just wear my shorts under my sparkle skirt but there were not enough pockets to hold all 6 gels so I had to go with my skirtsports skirt with its wonderfully large side pockets. Dear companies that create clothing for runners- give us pockets!!! Please and thank you. Big pockets. And pockets that ZIP (ahem, Nike that is for you- seriously a running jacket with pockets that don't close?!?). Anyways...back to the marathon story. Clothing choices- tank top, skort, sparkle skirt, short socks, hat and shoes. I carried 6 gels and wore my garmin. The end- no music, no water and no phone. I hate fiddling with things lately and wanted to simply run and be as cool as possible. I had a few moments where I regretted not carrying water, but overall I survived and was glad to not carry a handheld or have something strapped around my waist all morning.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rcozjlzWQlo/UalDm3rmSPI/AAAAAAAACN4/t_pbEzrjurQ/s1600/spring+2013+172.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rcozjlzWQlo/UalDm3rmSPI/AAAAAAAACN4/t_pbEzrjurQ/s400/spring+2013+172.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready for 26.2!</td></tr>
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I woke up around 4:30am which is not far off of my normal 4:45am wake up time for Sunday mornings to get to work so not a huge deal. I laid in bed and ate a cliff bar and a banana while waking up and then hopped out of bed to get ready. The plan was to be out the door by 6 at the latest and Will dropped me off at the starting area and took off. That was weird for me- I had no phone and nobody with me so I headed over to check out the potty line situation and decided I better just get in line- it was sooooo long!!! Christy got in line right behind me so we chatted the entire time and saw Zach and Steve also. We finally used the bathroom literally 5 minutes before the race started so we went right over to get ready to run and before we knew it we were off and running! I barely had time to get nervous I was so distracted waiting in line and talking so that was nice.<br />
<br />
I knew I wanted to keep my pace average as close to 10:30 as possible, and I also knew that I was going to struggle as the temperature went up. I ended up running with Christy for the first 2 miles and then at the water stop just before the bridge I took a bit longer than she did and I let her fade away- she was wanting a much faster time than me and I did not want to hold her back! Over the bridge I felt strong- I smiled and waved at the photographer and really just tried to absorb the runner energy around me and enjoy my familiar surroundings. If you have ever run over the Narrows Bridge you know what comes next- nearly 2 miles of uphill running! <br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-evaU1Carv3w/UalKL56k3RI/AAAAAAAACPs/IK4af2N_KGQ/s1600/Screenshot_2013-05-12-20-07-10-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-evaU1Carv3w/UalKL56k3RI/AAAAAAAACPs/IK4af2N_KGQ/s400/Screenshot_2013-05-12-20-07-10-1.png" width="261" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: On the Run Events<br />
Smiling on the Narrows Bridge! Love this photo and <br />
if I had an extra $70 I would buy it.</td></tr>
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<em>Mile 1- 10:27</em><br />
<em>Mile 2- 9:50</em><br />
<em>Mile 3- 10:16</em><br />
<em>Mile 4- 10:31</em><br />
<em>Mile 5- 11:53 (took a gel, water stop plus HILL)</em><br />
<em>Mile 6- 10:12</em><br />
<em></em><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zgF_-_3gsIE/UalDrkDIFKI/AAAAAAAACOA/qRqkL9U5458/s1600/spring+2013+174.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zgF_-_3gsIE/UalDrkDIFKI/AAAAAAAACOA/qRqkL9U5458/s400/spring+2013+174.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christy and I running through Proctor by Fleet Feet! <br />
Look at my form- I have been working on that!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rXdg6-YrKc4/UalDuRRym3I/AAAAAAAACOI/N8tfEGWpiqg/s1600/spring+2013+175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rXdg6-YrKc4/UalDuRRym3I/AAAAAAAACOI/N8tfEGWpiqg/s400/spring+2013+175.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Running to Subway!</td></tr>
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I tried to keep a nice easy pace since I knew exactly how far I had to go before leveling off again -one of the good things about knowing the course so well I suppose. I caught back up to Christy just in front of the University of Puget Sound and we ran together again for many miles. I told her to go on without me if she felt like it but she was ok with my pace and I welcomed the distraction. We saw and passed Endorphin Dude just before entering the Proctor district and I waved to a few friends and saw my hubby as well. He took some photos and asked if I needed anything but I was feeling good- this was mile 10 or so. A few other friends were waiting down the road a bit and I gave them high fives and then we passed one of the local police officers that I know as a customer so I said hi to him as well. Fun to see people you know while running! At the halfway point I stopped at the water station and somebody yelled "Hi Tiffany!" and it was another customer of mine volunteering.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OeFhqWdgOYM/UalDyUxXqDI/AAAAAAAACOQ/9DnQH21FadI/s1600/spring+2013+176.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OeFhqWdgOYM/UalDyUxXqDI/AAAAAAAACOQ/9DnQH21FadI/s400/spring+2013+176.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: Brian Jennings<br />
Hello Brian, Megan, Maddie and Rydar thanks for the support!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gDyUawsrLqU/UalD3VflW_I/AAAAAAAACOY/Qp68oC4bEXE/s1600/spring+2013+177.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gDyUawsrLqU/UalD3VflW_I/AAAAAAAACOY/Qp68oC4bEXE/s400/spring+2013+177.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: Brian Jennings<br />
Oh HEY!! Happy runners still!</td></tr>
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<em>Mile 7- 10:46</em><br />
<em>Mile 8- 10:20</em><br />
<em>Mile 9- 11:27 (gel, water stop)</em><br />
<em>Mile 10- 10:38</em><br />
<em>Mile 11- 10:02</em><br />
<em>Mile 12- 11:02 (hill- walked a bit)</em><br />
<em></em><br />
At that point Christy again headed off and I walked for a minute or two drinking 2 cups of water to chase down my gel I had taken. I was fueling every 4 miles just like I did in training and my energy level felt good. My half marathon time was 2:22- I was still hoping to make my 'B' goal of 4:45 at that point but I knew that I had to keep very consistent. Soon we entered the 5 mile drive loop at Point Defiance which was great because we were shaded from the sun and heat- but terrible because it is so hilly! I literally could barely WALK up the steepest hill in the world just to get into the park! I am not even joking, it was straight uphill and everyone was walking it. At this point I was leap frogging a few other runners and we were in this run/walk/run pattern just trying to keep going. Just before leaving the park I saw a girl off in the bushes getting sick. Poor girl.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FPDK7hByRdg/UalD8QbSo_I/AAAAAAAACOg/sNmE_W180IQ/s1600/spring+2013+178.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FPDK7hByRdg/UalD8QbSo_I/AAAAAAAACOg/sNmE_W180IQ/s400/spring+2013+178.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leaving 5 mile drive- heading into the inferno aka the waterfront</td></tr>
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<em>Mile 13- 11:45 (water stop, gel)</em><br />
<em>Mile 14- 11:47 (I think this was the giant hill I walked up)</em><br />
<em>Mile 15- 11:41 (5 mile drive hills)</em><br />
<em>Mile 16- 11:03</em><br />
<em>Mile 17- 12:16 (water stop, gel)</em><br />
<em>Mile 18- 11:13</em><br />
<em></em><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a8N7XnsJdVs/UalEc6OOEVI/AAAAAAAACPY/NcidWkCDlBc/s1600/wills+iphone+photos+294.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a8N7XnsJdVs/UalEc6OOEVI/AAAAAAAACPY/NcidWkCDlBc/s400/wills+iphone+photos+294.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chapstick, glorious chapstick!</td></tr>
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Mile 18 we left the park and there was my hubby again with my bag of goodies I packed in case I needed anything. I needed chapstick like nobody's business and had been dreaming about it for a few miles so I slathered that on and headed towards the <strike>inferno </strike> waterfront. I admit at this point I was feeling a bit defeated by the weather and my performance. I was walking more than running and needed a kick in the butt to get moving. Zach's wife Anne was on the side of the road and asked if I needed water or some of her iced coffee- I must have looked like hell lol! I thanked her but said no -walking just felt way too good and then off I went. We did a small out and back and then I heard from the other side (behind me at this point) Steve yell over to me! I asked how in the heck I had passed him and apparently he had made a pit stop and I passed him. Ok, well that meant I wasn't in too horrible of shape, if everyone was still pretty close by so I got my second wind if you can even call it that and I set off with a goal of not letting the 5 hour pacer pass me.<br />
<br />
Oh the flat waterfront. The flat, flat, hot, hot, never ending waterfront. I was so thirsty I could barely stand it and up ahead I could see a water table. But nobody was handing out water cups, it was a refill station for those with handhelds! I was very tempted to just put my head under it but decided I could last until the next station. I really think I was a bit delirious here- I remember very little except taking my gel around mile 20 and scanning the road for the sight of a water stop!<br />
<br />
Finally just after mile 21 there was water so I stood and drank 2 cups like I hadn't had water in days then tried to get myself running again. My body didn't hurt anywhere really but I just was really hot and I kept getting slightly dizzy if I ran too fast. For some reason as I was plodding along I kept chanting the lyrics "anything you can do, I can do better. I can do anything better than you" over and over. The gel I took at mile 20 wore off quickly and by mile 22 I was feeling like I needed another one already. Good thing I had thought to grab an extra one from an aid station just in case I needed it. However it was a powerbar gel in vanilla and it was the nastiest thing ever. It was super thin in consistency and of course it was hot from being in my pocket so it got all over my hands and when I tasted it it was almost sour. Yuck, yuck, yuck but I took it anyways knowing I needed the energy. <br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-09aro4OVrww/UalDfHMvUlI/AAAAAAAACNw/8VQHDUTJhfQ/s1600/spring+2013+171.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-09aro4OVrww/UalDfHMvUlI/AAAAAAAACNw/8VQHDUTJhfQ/s400/spring+2013+171.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The fuel I brought with me, I ended up needing one more though</td></tr>
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<em>Mile 19- 12:27 (get chapstick from Will, need a kick in the butt)</em><br />
<em>Mile 20- 10:56 (a little mojo returns!)</em><br />
<em>Mile 21- 12:34 (water- finally water!!)</em><br />
<em>Mile 22- 13:41 (seriously contemplating a shortcut to the finish line, energy gone)</em><br />
<em>Mile 23- 12:16</em><br />
<em>Mile 24- 11:37</em><br />
<br />
I was running, walking, running along and then all of a sudden towards the end of mile 24 the 5 hour pacer caught up to me and passed me. "Oh hell no" I said to myself and kept right on her heels for about half a mile then I took my last gel, got some water to chase it down and had some lovely little kids pour some over my head. I had my last mile to run and I immediately passed the 5 hour pacer (they cheered for me- thank you!) and did my best to run a final fastish mile hoping to not see the pacer again! I saw my mom up ahead and that gave me a little bit of a kick to finish nice and strong, rounded the corner and crossed the line. Done. The first words out of my mouth were "can I stop running now?!?" and I was so happy to see my hubby, kiddos and mom! <br />
<br />
<em>Mile 25- 12:54 (5 hour pace caught up to me. Gee, wonder why?)</em><br />
<em>Mile 26- 11:08 (take that 5 hour pacer!! Felt faster than that. Must have been delirious)</em><br />
<em>Mile .24- 2:16 for a pace of 9:25 (BAM -take that finish line!)</em><br />
<em></em><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LIeZQelee_U/UalEAqIP68I/AAAAAAAACOo/ivYbyMkQ_KQ/s1600/spring+2013+179.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LIeZQelee_U/UalEAqIP68I/AAAAAAAACOo/ivYbyMkQ_KQ/s400/spring+2013+179.JPG" width="342" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Best moment EVER!!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DCNg954JlJo/UalECwWT9HI/AAAAAAAACOw/NMOdhDyHXco/s1600/spring+2013+180.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DCNg954JlJo/UalECwWT9HI/AAAAAAAACOw/NMOdhDyHXco/s400/spring+2013+180.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Can I stop running now?"</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HNrBlmP8UGw/UalEF3TzmTI/AAAAAAAACO4/QmfDIn26i30/s1600/spring+2013+181.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HNrBlmP8UGw/UalEF3TzmTI/AAAAAAAACO4/QmfDIn26i30/s400/spring+2013+181.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh wait, people are taking pictures, must be cheesy!</td></tr>
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I felt pretty good at the end- the last marathon I felt much worse that is for sure. I never reached the point where running was painful which makes me believe the weather really did slow me down and I would have had a better time if it wasn't nearly 80 degrees out. I downed a bottle of water, took one bite of pizza which did not taste good to me at all, ate a banana and an orange to get some control over my suddenly plummeting blood sugar and walked around for a few minutes chatting with some friends. Then we headed home and I showered, put on my comfy clothes and compression calf sleeves and laid down on the couch for a while. Overall I am proud of myself- I finished the race even though my mind wanted to stop many, many times and I met my "C" goal- under 5 hours. Marathon number 2- check! <br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_JUekms6i-E/UalEIQyJ9OI/AAAAAAAACPA/ZEEj7LWMXGc/s1600/spring+2013+182.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_JUekms6i-E/UalEIQyJ9OI/AAAAAAAACPA/ZEEj7LWMXGc/s400/spring+2013+182.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Post marathon glow. Ok, maybe that is <br />
dried sweat. Whatever.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IFQ3b1qgAX4/UalELcCvdqI/AAAAAAAACPI/bGSNAu03Xig/s1600/spring+2013+183.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IFQ3b1qgAX4/UalELcCvdqI/AAAAAAAACPI/bGSNAu03Xig/s400/spring+2013+183.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finally vertical</td></tr>
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Final results: <br />
Time- 4:57:07 <br />
Overall place- 583/888<br />
Female place- 254/426<br />
Age group place- 47/68<br />
Fun fact- this is exactly 44 SECONDS slower than my last marathon. At least I am consistent!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4k401YQmpN8/UalEPDGf47I/AAAAAAAACPQ/umuoO_Qtb4Q/s1600/spring+2013+185.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4k401YQmpN8/UalEPDGf47I/AAAAAAAACPQ/umuoO_Qtb4Q/s400/spring+2013+185.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The bling! I got the special edition for sporting my half fanatic gear!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<strike></strike>Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03085044548210730897noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7300229258508059510.post-68437099045223438432013-03-26T11:19:00.000-07:002013-03-26T11:19:24.263-07:00St. Paddy Run Tacoma RecapI will start this off by saying training for a marathon is time consuming. I have had to eliminate a few things from my life in the last two months and blogging and reading for fun have taken the hardest hits. Although I have plenty of time to play Candy Crush it seems. Anyways- I have been diligently training for my marathon coming up on May 5th, and last Friday I actually popped over 300 miles of running for the year. I will be trying to get a blog or two up about some of my actual training, but for now I wanted to let you know how my half marathon went!<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uFAYaUopoMQ/UVHhxoQdCYI/AAAAAAAACLQ/O5lBlmKx7Kk/s1600/iphone+March+2013+186.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uFAYaUopoMQ/UVHhxoQdCYI/AAAAAAAACLQ/O5lBlmKx7Kk/s400/iphone+March+2013+186.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our tech shirts- each year they add a character to the shirt design</td></tr>
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I did manage to fit a race into this training cycle- last weekend on March 16th I ran the <a href="http://stpaddyruntacoma.com/">St Paddy Day Half Marathon</a> in Tacoma. I registered way back on opening day using a volunteer credit I earned so basically this race was free for me. I also registered Will for it as one of his Christmas presents- (haha, Merry Christmas...now go run!) and many local friends were running it as well. This was my first race ever as a new runner in 2010 and I have run the 5K the last three years. This was the first year they added the half marathon to the line up.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hNOELy7Hwv4/UVHhnklCcYI/AAAAAAAACLE/x4NdgMRrCXI/s1600/iphone+March+2013+193.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hNOELy7Hwv4/UVHhnklCcYI/AAAAAAAACLE/x4NdgMRrCXI/s400/iphone+March+2013+193.JPG" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Devan made me this little collage. <br />
I tattoo'd myself up for the race!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Race morning Alyssa arrived at our house around 7am since her boyfriend Paul offered to watch the kids for us since we were suddenly without a babysitter Friday afternoon. Very brave (and awesome) of him. He stayed at the house and the three of us headed down to the start line about 10 minutes away. I had 3 race packets to deliver and I like to be a bit early so we can get organized. Parking was easy, I found Zoe quickly and gave her 2 of the packets and chatted for a few minutes. Then we set off to find Steve which wasn't too difficult since he is so tall. Found lots of friends, took a quick stop in the honey bucket, decided to check my stuff in at the coat check area and then stood there in the cold waiting for the race to start. Will and Alyssa went to put their stuff in the car then Will handed me the keys to hold- I really didn't have a ton of pockets so I dashed to the coat check and by the time I got back the racers were all lined up and I could not find my friends -they had disappeared into the crowd. Dang it- I was bummed I didn't get to tell Will good luck!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vGN_XuHHTMs/UVHirD9OTCI/AAAAAAAACMA/H18OhtnCec8/s1600/iphone+March+2013+217.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vGN_XuHHTMs/UVHirD9OTCI/AAAAAAAACMA/H18OhtnCec8/s400/iphone+March+2013+217.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My little good luck charm I have worn the last 3 year's to the race. <br />
It is for my missing runner buddy Cynthia who loves butterflies.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I lined up just behind the 2:10 pacer, my ultimate goal was to finish under 2:10 so I figured that would be a good place to start. The first mile is pretty fast since it is a downhill slope- after about 5 minutes I caught a glimpse of Alyssa's sparkle skirt ahead of me so I sped up to catch her. We ran together the rest of the race, so I am glad I found her so quickly! I passed the 2:10 pacer to catch Alyssa and we never saw him again the rest of the race. There was a turn around with an out-and-back after mile 1 so I did see Will also and give him a high five as we passed which made me feel better. The miles just ticked by pretty quickly after that. My foot started falling asleep so I stopped quickly at the first water stop to loosen my laces on my left foot which helped. I took a gel around mile 6, just before heading up the huge hill towards Pearl Street at the end of Ruston Way. <br />
<br />
<span style="color: black;">Mile 1~ 9:15- downhill, found Alyssa, warming up</span><br />
Mile 2~ 9:17- uphill, found Will and gave a high five<br />
Mile 3~ 9:30- getting into the groove, my foot is falling asleep<br />
Mile 4~ 9:53- over the overpass, quick water stop and loosen my laces<br />
Mile 5~ 9:24- flat waterfront, foot comes back to life<br />
Mile 6~ 9:33- take energy gel, water stop, rain starts, dreading the big hill<br />
Mile 7~ 10:20- the big hill, rain stops<br />
<br />
It also started raining about that time- it rained for about 3 minutes and it kind of felt good since I was warm. The weather was pretty awesome overall- the temperature was mild, there was a bit of wind and the rain held off except for those couple of minutes! Back to the hill. We jogged/walked/jogged up that thing then headed off into the hilly neighborhood in Ruston. I was thinking "it must be flat now" before every turn- only to face another hill. Ugh. Finally we were heading back down the massive hill onto the waterfront. The lovely flat waterfront. I took one more gel, one last cup of water and was ready to finish this race! Over the overpass, then up Schuster Parkway, knowing the final mile is all uphill was mentally tough. I caught sight of Steve after the overpass and in my mind I was hoping to pass him- it gave me a focus and something to think about besides being tired. Finally, in the last half mile as we were running up the hill we passed him! A quick moment of walking to catch our breath near the top of the hill and then we headed into the finish line. That hill is pure evil. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1dYMYYvEu6c/UVHh5DyjR9I/AAAAAAAACLY/TptmO4YA0co/s1600/iphone+March+2013+194.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1dYMYYvEu6c/UVHh5DyjR9I/AAAAAAAACLY/TptmO4YA0co/s400/iphone+March+2013+194.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Done!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Mile 8~ 10:01- more hills with each turn, head back down big hill, water stop<br />
Mile 9~ 9:31- aaaahhhh- the flat waterfront again<br />
Mile 10~ 9:31- water stop, take a gel<br />
Mile 11~ 9:47- over the overpass again, catch sight of Steve<br />
Mile 12~ 9:51- just running to catch Steve and finish the race, tired legs<br />
Mile 13~ 10:09- the UPHILL finish, pass Steve, then cross the line. Done!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SSdt1IL5fQo/UVHkZYNSEWI/AAAAAAAACMI/e_FObXTUG2w/s1600/stpaddyrace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SSdt1IL5fQo/UVHkZYNSEWI/AAAAAAAACMI/e_FObXTUG2w/s400/stpaddyrace.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just after finishing, still a little dazed!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hgutSpUHW0g/UVHinB4YaZI/AAAAAAAACL4/6037I1M1kPE/s1600/iphone+March+2013+218.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hgutSpUHW0g/UVHinB4YaZI/AAAAAAAACL4/6037I1M1kPE/s400/iphone+March+2013+218.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I think this is my favorite medal ever. It even <br />
stands up on its own so you can display it! Genius!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We grabbed our amazing finisher medal's and some water then chatted with Steve for a few minutes. He races nearly every single weekend and recently earned his marathon maniac status. We met last year when he ran Ragnar with us and I have seen him at a couple of races since then (Defiance 30K and Seattle Half). We found Paul who had brought the kids down to the race for us so I could relieve him of his child watching duties. Then we waited for Will to finish- I figured he would be in around 2:30 and sure enough- right at 2:29 he came up the hill for his big finish. I was glad we could get a few pictures of him because literally 30 seconds before he finished a gust of wind knocked over several things including the photographer's stuff. No finish photo for him! Interestingly enough, this happened at the High Speed Pursuit race in Boise last year- the timing equipment was blown over just before he finished. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-92XSXmjZ2vQ/UVHiH93bVAI/AAAAAAAACLg/3Skdje0Z2Cs/s1600/iphone+March+2013+197.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-92XSXmjZ2vQ/UVHiH93bVAI/AAAAAAAACLg/3Skdje0Z2Cs/s400/iphone+March+2013+197.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Will coming up to the finish after that monster hill!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YRJfc_FBBjw/UVHiWQ3H_RI/AAAAAAAACLo/LY_W_PGY6So/s1600/iphone+March+2013+203.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YRJfc_FBBjw/UVHiWQ3H_RI/AAAAAAAACLo/LY_W_PGY6So/s400/iphone+March+2013+203.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So proud of this guy- he just finished his 4th half marathon!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Overall, this was a fun race and I would do it again for sure. It is hilly but hello- it is Tacoma. Can't avoid hills around here! I wasn't sure what to expect for my finish time- I have been intentionally running at a slower pace for marathon training. I am pretty happy with my 2:06:05 finish time! That is an average pace of 9:37 which is about a full minute faster per mile than I have been training at for my long runs. Thanks Tacoma City Marathon Association for another fantastic race! <br />
Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03085044548210730897noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7300229258508059510.post-33631252124867765922013-01-25T10:31:00.002-08:002013-01-25T10:31:50.473-08:00Warm Enough, But Not Too HotI have been meaning to sit and write out a blog for over a month now, and since I am procrastinating on heading out for my 13 mile training run I figure now is a great time to catch back up! I finished out 2012 with 850 miles of running which I was pretty happy with considering I never set a specific goal. I am now onto my 4th year as a runner and I am finding it harder and harder to remember a time in my life where I DIDN'T run several times each week. It is just something I do now without really thinking about it. <br />
<br />
I was out on my long run last weekend and I got to thinking about how normal it is for me to go on a long run every weekend- and then I thought about how most people think that is far from normal. How running 10 or more miles on a Saturday morning in 27 degree temperatures is actually weird to some people. But it has been part of my week for several years now and it seems perfectly normal to me as I sit and ponder how many layers I need to be 'warm enough, but not too hot' as I head out the door. <br />
<br />
So what are my grand plans moving forward into 2013? Well, currently I am signed up for the <a href="http://www.stpaddyruntacoma.com/">St. Paddy's Day </a> half marathon in Tacoma on March 16th. Last year I placed 4th in my age group in the 5K after training really hard using the Run Less, Run Faster training guide. It also was freezing cold and slightly snowing on race day- hope that doesn't happen again! I love this race because the start line is about 10 minutes from my house and it has a fun holiday theme. Will and Alyssa are signed up to run the half with me and I know there are a few other friends signed up as well for the other distances. Are you signed up? Tell me, tell me! Thinking about running your first 5K? This is a great one, in fact it was my first race EVER way back in 2010. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EzWVlf9iSok/UQLMFgFEk2I/AAAAAAAACKE/Ak4nzhec1WE/s1600/March+2010+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="352" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EzWVlf9iSok/UQLMFgFEk2I/AAAAAAAACKE/Ak4nzhec1WE/s400/March+2010+004.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jaime, me and Cynthia<br />
St Paddy Day 5K run 2010- our first race ever! <br />
And there was sunshine- hoping for that again this year!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I may have also decided to attempt the M word again. Yes, it is true I signed up for the <a href="http://www.tacomacitymarathon.com/">Tacoma City Marathon</a> on May 5th. AAAAHHHHH!!! It will be nearly 2 years between marathons for me. I think I am ready. Well, not yet- but on May 5th I had better be ready! I decided to use the Finish It plan from the book <u>Train Like a Mother</u>. You can buy your own copy <a href="http://astore.amazon.com/anotmothrunn-20">HERE</a> from Amazon or check out some information from Sarah and Dimity <a href="http://anothermotherrunner.com/">HERE</a> at Another Mother Runner. I just love these two ladies, I have met them a couple of times and they are just amazing. I listen to their podcast when I run on the treadmill and I own both of their books, I follow them on twitter and on facebook- they just make me laugh and offer tons of encouragement and advice to their fellow mother runners. Ok, enough about my complete obsession with Sarah and Dimity...moving on...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RLCCcnC7veg/UQLMuawFTHI/AAAAAAAACKU/N6sZL8qD1vA/s1600/photo+(218).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RLCCcnC7veg/UQLMuawFTHI/AAAAAAAACKU/N6sZL8qD1vA/s400/photo+(218).JPG" width="323" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The book I am using for my training plan</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The training plan I am following is 20 weeks long. I didn't realize that until I did the math but I was a couple of weeks behind so I jumped in at week 3 of the training plan and am currently finishing up week 6. It has been going really well so far, it took me a couple of weeks to really build up my training base again since I really slacked off the last couple of months. But I am going to hit a 100 mile month for January and I feel great! I am hoping to blog 2-3 times a week so that I can look back on my marathon training and see what I did and how my training was. Anyone else out there training for a marathon? Which one? I decided on a local one this time because it is so much easier (and cheaper) in many ways. I just hope that on race day I am not bored running the same roads that I trained on. I will find out soon enough!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6inU7DGhGn8/UQLMrMltgdI/AAAAAAAACKM/SEspdEMSCgI/s1600/photo+%2528217%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="315" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6inU7DGhGn8/UQLMrMltgdI/AAAAAAAACKM/SEspdEMSCgI/s400/photo+%2528217%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is what my workout plan looks like. <br />
I am about to head out the door for the 13 mile long run in week 6. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I will do a training update on Monday- I better hit the pavement before I lose my motivation. The good news is that it is 42 degrees out and not raining- but that could change any second. So I need to go figure out my layers with the ultimate goal of being warm enough, but not too hot. Happy running!Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03085044548210730897noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7300229258508059510.post-49053794437462106222012-12-15T18:58:00.000-08:002012-12-15T18:58:56.112-08:00Santa Runs Tacoma 2012 Race Recap<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o5qztLRC6HA/UM01qXFId4I/AAAAAAAACIs/1oX4F8zCgOk/s1600/December+2012+iphone+257.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o5qztLRC6HA/UM01qXFId4I/AAAAAAAACIs/1oX4F8zCgOk/s400/December+2012+iphone+257.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The family ready to run!</td></tr>
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I love local, fun races! This is my third year running the Santa Runs Tacoma 5K and this year my whole family decided to join in. Of course I had to get creative with our costumes, and luckily everyone was a good sport about it. This race doesn't give out shirts or medals- instead you get a stocking hat and gloves. I think this years gloves are the best so far, and the hat is really cute also which is awesome. Last year's hat was a bit too small (even though it was cute!) and the gloves were scratchy. You do have the option to purchase a shirt if you want one- I personally do not need another cotton shirt to wear as pajamas lol.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PdGWejhRQOE/UM01F5wfrTI/AAAAAAAACH8/y1nz7EKjYXU/s1600/photo+%2528216%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PdGWejhRQOE/UM01F5wfrTI/AAAAAAAACH8/y1nz7EKjYXU/s400/photo+%2528216%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our race packet goodies- hat and fleece gloves!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R5pnKN7O78s/UM01YdaLdOI/AAAAAAAACIU/6ryIy3JWJUU/s1600/December+2012+iphone+246.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R5pnKN7O78s/UM01YdaLdOI/AAAAAAAACIU/6ryIy3JWJUU/s400/December+2012+iphone+246.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our race bibs!</td></tr>
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So race morning we got ourselves up and organized and out the door by 8:05am or so. The plan was 7:45am but with 4 people getting ready and 2 of them being kids that was the best we could do! It was cold outside, about 37 degrees or so but the rain was holding off and I was hoping it would stay that way until the race was over (it did!). <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bM2V_ZHLphs/UM01hzXyuLI/AAAAAAAACIk/pqKO3I3-sck/s1600/December+2012+iphone+249.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bM2V_ZHLphs/UM01hzXyuLI/AAAAAAAACIk/pqKO3I3-sck/s400/December+2012+iphone+249.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One is naughty, one is nice!</td></tr>
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We parked down on Pacific Avenue and jogged our way down to the starting area to warm ourselves up, about 1/2 a mile away. I quickly spotted Mel from <a href="http://www.tallmomontherun.com/">www.tallmomontherun.com</a> and went over to give her a hug and say hi. We found some other friends and tried to stay warm waiting for the race to start. The 10K started around 8:40am and then we lined up for our 9am start time. We were soon joined by Alyssa (<a href="http://www.therandomnessofalyssa.blogspot.com/">www.therandomnessofalyssa.blogspot.com</a>), Paul, Meredith, Kallie, Brian, Rydar, Zoe (<a href="http://www.runzoerun.com/">www.runzoerun.com</a>) and her daughter, as well as Alma (<a href="http://www.averagewomanrunner.blogspot.com/">www.averagewomanrunner.blogspot.com</a>) and a couple of her friends! Quite a large group of friends, but so great to know so many people out on the course. And I know there were many more that I didn't list!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bIFEw9tjzls/UM01QX_PyrI/AAAAAAAACIM/4xU07HSM04w/s1600/tiffandmelsanta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bIFEw9tjzls/UM01QX_PyrI/AAAAAAAACIM/4xU07HSM04w/s400/tiffandmelsanta.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mel and I before the race!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jAA1Nthb9sg/UM01eHQQUEI/AAAAAAAACIc/tiS6qlT-93Q/s1600/December+2012+iphone+255.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jAA1Nthb9sg/UM01eHQQUEI/AAAAAAAACIc/tiS6qlT-93Q/s400/December+2012+iphone+255.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Devan, me and Mel waiting in the potty line!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The gun went off and we were shuffling towards the timing mats and then we were off and running! It was a bit crowded in the beginning but we were able to keep together easily enough. We made it up the initial hill without any problems and settled into a comfortable pace for the kids. I didn't wear my garmin because there really wasn't a point- I wanted to have fun not stress about what time it was! At the halfway point Niko was wanting to take lots of walking breaks which was fine with me but Devan was annoyed and wanted to keep running so I asked Will if he minded that we went ahead and he said no so off we went. Devan kept a nice steady pace and I told her if she needed to walk to let me know. We took maybe 3 walk breaks for about 15-20 seconds each and soon enough we were at the final little hill before heading down to the finish line! <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8-UYxnQpoV0/UM012GCPM7I/AAAAAAAACJE/ztO9KkSCJCw/s1600/December+2012+iphone+262.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8-UYxnQpoV0/UM012GCPM7I/AAAAAAAACJE/ztO9KkSCJCw/s400/December+2012+iphone+262.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cheesy smile for the camera</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yRneC_DkvzI/UM013rZYJCI/AAAAAAAACJM/AdA4M62z7D8/s1600/December+2012+iphone+263.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yRneC_DkvzI/UM013rZYJCI/AAAAAAAACJM/AdA4M62z7D8/s400/December+2012+iphone+263.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My elf hubby</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We stopped and had our timing chip removed and grabbed a banana, bottle of water and a chocolate milk before walking down to watch for Will and Niko to finish. We cheered on a few friends that finished right behind us and then Will and Niko came through- Niko didn't look too happy, I think he had gotten a bit too cold in the last mile. Oops, should have dressed him in one more layer I guess. But he finished and once he warmed up and had some chocolate milk he was as good as new! We stood around and chatted for a few minutes and then made the trek back to our car. It was FREEZING cold and raining for our walk back but I couldn't complain because the kids were with me and I had to pretend it was not that bad. But it was cold and my hands and face were frozen and I was really happy to be back at our car!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--m51G3ricGE/UM01yoHG3nI/AAAAAAAACI8/jNditEJCTaI/s1600/December+2012+iphone+261.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--m51G3ricGE/UM01yoHG3nI/AAAAAAAACI8/jNditEJCTaI/s400/December+2012+iphone+261.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alyssa, Meredith and I</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ejc58SfLeTw/UM01vMYuuII/AAAAAAAACI0/PvDvELLj_Ro/s1600/December+2012+iphone+260.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ejc58SfLeTw/UM01vMYuuII/AAAAAAAACI0/PvDvELLj_Ro/s400/December+2012+iphone+260.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A tall elf and a short Santa!</td></tr>
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If you are interested in running a race for the first time and want to have fun I highly recommend finding a local themed race. These are less competitive and you will find people of every size, shape, age and fitness level there. The kids had a good time- I asked Niko if he had fun and he said yes even though it didn't seem that way at the end. It was a fun way to spend a Saturday morning with the family doing something active. We finished up with a nice breakfast down at The Harmon hanging out with some friends and relaxing. Good times.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-86Ha80FbPgw/UM01L92nC_I/AAAAAAAACIE/Vhs-50hrRuE/s1600/santafinish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-86Ha80FbPgw/UM01L92nC_I/AAAAAAAACIE/Vhs-50hrRuE/s400/santafinish.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alyssa caught Devan and I finishing the race!<br />
</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y3_mYY_klB8/UM015YLDjfI/AAAAAAAACJU/-dMElOmkQSc/s1600/December+2012+iphone+265.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y3_mYY_klB8/UM015YLDjfI/AAAAAAAACJU/-dMElOmkQSc/s400/December+2012+iphone+265.JPG" width="297" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Niko and his buddy Rydar before the race. I love this photo!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03085044548210730897noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7300229258508059510.post-10282809792213955712012-12-11T23:20:00.000-08:002012-12-11T23:20:12.091-08:00Amica Seattle Half Marathon RecapI signed up to run the Seattle half marathon last spring when there was a Zozi deal floating around for $39. Too good to pass up right? Several friends signed up as well, including Cynthia who was planning to come over from Boise and spend the holiday weekend with us before the race. The Seattle half marathon is on the Sunday following Thanksgiving so typically the weather is horrible and I imagined I would have a pumpkin pie hangover but it would still be a fun race with friends no matter what happened!<br />
<br />
As the date starting creeping up, I found out that Cynthia would not be able to make it over for the race after all (insert very sad face HERE) so I arranged for another friend Kate to use her race bib. This would be Kate's very first half marathon- she had mentioned wanting to run a full marathon next year so I suggested that a half would probably be a good place to start. And if you read my last post, you know that I was not going to set any PR's on this course due to my rough November training so I offered to run the whole race with her- that sounded like more fun anyways! She was so relieved and happy that I knew I made the right decision to help her get across the finish line and just not worry about my time at all.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t_H-UGxdj28/UMgrUi0b_VI/AAAAAAAACHA/uESQYUB-xZM/s1600/photo+%2528214%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t_H-UGxdj28/UMgrUi0b_VI/AAAAAAAACHA/uESQYUB-xZM/s400/photo+%2528214%2529.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seattle Space Needle- pretty fantastic view!</td></tr>
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The day before the race my hubby, the kiddos and myself headed up to Seattle. I had reserved a hotel room right across from the Space Needle (best decision EVER) so we walked down to the race expo and then met up with a group of friends for dinner. After dinner we walked back to the hotel and tried to get some sleep. I had laid out my race day outfit and made sure I could get ready quickly in the morning. It was so nice knowing I could literally walk to the start line in about 5 minutes! <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4Z7kMTgqmqo/UMgrauSCD0I/AAAAAAAACHI/RiEfnVOUscw/s1600/seahalf1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4Z7kMTgqmqo/UMgrauSCD0I/AAAAAAAACHI/RiEfnVOUscw/s400/seahalf1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kate, me, Alyssa, Kerrie and Zoe looking all sparkly before the race!</td></tr>
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I met Alyssa down in the hotel lobby and we walked to a quick meet up with Kerrie, Zoe and Kate. We chatted for a few minutes, had a random guy snap our photo and then we headed out to the extremely packed start area. Alyssa, Kate and I were starting together and I really had wanted to be ahead of the 2:15 pace group but it was impossible to move. The only bonus was that we were staying warm since it was about 38 degrees outside. No complaints though because it was not raining or snowing!! Kate was looking pretty nervous and I assured her once we started moving she would be just fine. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tNnFdpiynMQ/UMgrO4O_aQI/AAAAAAAACGw/TZZ6prdnRSs/s1600/photo+%2528215%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tNnFdpiynMQ/UMgrO4O_aQI/AAAAAAAACGw/TZZ6prdnRSs/s400/photo+%2528215%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We were smashed in and couldn't move any more waiting for the race to start</td></tr>
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It was kind of fun to relive the "first half marathon" experience through her. Do you remember your first half marathon? Did you get to run with somebody? Mine was at the North Olympic Discovery Half Marathon in June 2010 and I started the race with Cynthia and Tiana. Even though we didn't run together the entire race it was so nice to have friends at the start and the finish! <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oHzV6N99TUw/UMgsGrNtLxI/AAAAAAAACHQ/xHXWURAPgiI/s1600/June+2010+033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oHzV6N99TUw/UMgsGrNtLxI/AAAAAAAACHQ/xHXWURAPgiI/s400/June+2010+033.JPG" width="291" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flashback! Me, Cynthia and Tiana after finishing our <br />
first half marathon in June 2010</td></tr>
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Anyways, soon the gun sounded and we were off and running! Not. We were walking in a cluster and barely able to move for a few minutes and then we were running! It was very, very crowded in the beginning of the race since we started so far back. After about a mile it thinned a bit and we could pick the pace up a bit. I was trying to keep as close to 10 minute miles as possible, but since I didn't do any training runs with Kate I didn't really know her pace- only her goal which was between 2:10 and 2:15. I didn't want her to go out too fast and then be dying later in the race. So we ran and chatted and Alyssa stayed with us for about 3 or so miles until Kate needed to take a little stretch/walk break and she went on ahead. <br />
<br />
I had kind of wanted to use the bathroom before the race started but the lines were very long so I decided to go out on the course after a few miles. Well, literally every single time we passed a honey bucket there was a line! I have never seen this before in a race. And the weird thing is that I didn't really have to go that bad, but after you think about having to go you just can't get it out of your mind! Finally we waited and spent a good 5 minutes in a line to go. We multi-tasked and drank water and had a gel while we waited- this was around mile 5 or so. This was Kate's first Gu (vanilla bean) by the way. I would recommend trying Gu before race day, but I didn't realize she didn't even know what they were until I brought it up the week of the race! Oops. She thought it was really sweet and preferred the espresso one she had later at mile 9 but she liked them overall and said they helped her energy level. I prefer espresso as well- I tend to buy them by the case. Peanut butter is pretty tasty as well, if you haven't tried it you should!<br />
<br />
One thing that is awesome about pacing somebody who is a bit slower than you is that you get to absorb the race course- the sights, the sounds, the other runners and the people cheering us on. Pretty cool. Kate was doing a great job, we were taking walk breaks about once or twice each mile but only for about 30-60 seconds and we took water at all of the water stops. We ran along Lake Washington and then through the Arboretum before heading back into the Seattle Center. I loved the Arboretum with all of the trees lining the streets- I felt like I was out in the woods it was really pretty! And the neighborhoods we passed had the most beautiful, amazing houses to look at. This course was much better than the Seattle Rock and Roll as far as scenery goes. <br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fAYUfv4S9V4/UMgpitDZw9I/AAAAAAAACGo/H-UM3FhMIyM/s1600/OctoberNovember+2012+093.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fAYUfv4S9V4/UMgpitDZw9I/AAAAAAAACGo/H-UM3FhMIyM/s400/OctoberNovember+2012+093.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The finish area</td></tr>
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The last few miles were the toughest for Kate, she had built up to an 11 mile run during training but it was only one time. I was talking her ear off, trying to keep encouraging her and make sure her mind was busy and not just focused on how badly she wanted to stop running! Finally at 12 miles she told me she was going through the stages of grief. I asked her which stage she was at and she said anger- I just laughed. She knew she was going to finish though and she found a last surge of energy- I knew it would be very close but there was a possibility of finishing under 2:30 still. When we finally saw the finish area Kate just took off for the finish line and I tried my very best to dodge people and keep up! She has really long legs! <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AdoZUDIXx4Q/UMgpLTABJQI/AAAAAAAACGM/DEgq7a9XP-Q/s1600/OctoberNovember+2012+100.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AdoZUDIXx4Q/UMgpLTABJQI/AAAAAAAACGM/DEgq7a9XP-Q/s400/OctoberNovember+2012+100.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Watch out- girl on a mission coming through!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BnhPRr2NMFQ/UMgpSmKix-I/AAAAAAAACGU/qrtdfcYdjQA/s1600/OctoberNovember+2012+103.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BnhPRr2NMFQ/UMgpSmKix-I/AAAAAAAACGU/qrtdfcYdjQA/s400/OctoberNovember+2012+103.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Done!!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aV46O_k2CKU/UMgpeWGCOJI/AAAAAAAACGg/mDAsOYYSPOo/s1600/OctoberNovember+2012+105.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aV46O_k2CKU/UMgpeWGCOJI/AAAAAAAACGg/mDAsOYYSPOo/s400/OctoberNovember+2012+105.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Half marathon #14 in 2 1/2 years</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Once we crossed the finish line she was just hugging me and so happy to be done- that was a great feeling, to be there when somebody completes a goal. A huge goal- a half marathon is a big accomplishment. Just because some people (myself included) are crazy and run half marathons like we are taking a stroll through the park does not mean that it is not something to be extremely proud about doing. And like I told Kate, no sense killing yourself on your first one- you need a goal to beat for your second one!! Our finish time was 2:31 and I think that is a pretty great first half marathon time. I would definitely consider running this race again- and who knows maybe next year I will tackle the full marathon! <br />
<br />
Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03085044548210730897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7300229258508059510.post-49980538346902497792012-11-30T14:46:00.001-08:002012-11-30T14:46:20.898-08:00November Happened<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nH0REhcSuSM/ULkx9u0UAyI/AAAAAAAACE4/7SsKHd2ssPk/s1600/photo+%2528209%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nH0REhcSuSM/ULkx9u0UAyI/AAAAAAAACE4/7SsKHd2ssPk/s320/photo+%2528209%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View on my 10 mile run -Point Defiance</td></tr>
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I almost (ALMOST!) went a whole month without a blog post. I am not exactly consistent about blogging, but I am borderline slacker at the present moment. So I am going to do a quick recap of my November happenings (hopefully you won't be bored to tears) and then maybe by Monday I will get my Seattle Half Marathon recap up.<br />
<br />
I will start back on October 26th, thirteen days after my Defiance 30K race. I decided to go for a long run that day and originally I thought about doing 15 miles. Why? No idea, it just seemed like a good number. But it was raining, like pouring buckets of rain from the sky raining. I set out with a new route in my head and my legs felt good- I wasn't pushing my pace, just nice and easy. I was soaking wet and decided to cut it to 10 miles but then at the last minute took a route that led me to a nice 13.1 finish. My own personal half marathon, in 2 hours and 14 minutes. My shoes took 3 days to dry out, but in hindsight I am so glad I went the extra few miles this day because my training was about to take a nose dive.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--dLwRMsIxNI/ULkx46GvC6I/AAAAAAAACEw/BPdyzo44ijk/s1600/photo+%2528208%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--dLwRMsIxNI/ULkx46GvC6I/AAAAAAAACEw/BPdyzo44ijk/s320/photo+%2528208%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gotta love running in the fall!</td></tr>
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The following week I did 2 training runs on my treadmill, one with some 800 meter sprints and one where I tried to hold a tempo pace thinking some speed work would be a good idea. My left hip/lower back bothered me during both runs and I cut my Weds. run short because of this and did some strength work instead. Friday I went outside for a 10 mile run, and my hip felt fine so I thought it was the treadmill irritating my hip. On Sunday (11/4) I played indoor soccer for an hour and I could barely walk afterwards- my hip hurt really bad. Not a good sign!<br />
<br />
So on Monday I called up my chiropractor and went in for a visit. My pelvis and hip bones were all jumbled up so she adjusted me and asked me for a follow up later that week. Meanwhile, no running and definitely no soccer. Ugh.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yYd-Kp83SFc/ULkyFYqG2DI/AAAAAAAACFY/PcSvpaucywY/s1600/IMAG1995.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yYd-Kp83SFc/ULkyFYqG2DI/AAAAAAAACFY/PcSvpaucywY/s400/IMAG1995.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jill, Chelsea, Zoe, me, Kerrie and Mel</td></tr>
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On Thursday the 8th I went to Southcenter and had dinner with some friends that I have met through the blogging world. I really enjoy hanging out with these ladies, it is a fun group to be a part of. We ate at BJ's and sat around chatting for a couple of hours. Good times.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wG7N70rkHm0/ULkyZ0f3jaI/AAAAAAAACFg/F_nMXKn7UPM/s1600/photo+%2528213%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wG7N70rkHm0/ULkyZ0f3jaI/AAAAAAAACFg/F_nMXKn7UPM/s320/photo+%2528213%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mel brought me my gold spike from our first place win at the <br />
Rainier to Ruston relay last June!! It is awesome!</td></tr>
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On Friday the 9th we went to see the school production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. It was very cute, and afterwards a huge group of people went to The Spaghetti Factory to celebrate since lots of Devan's friends were in the play. I was not feeling very good- a bit overheated and nauseous. I stood up thinking I should get some fresh air but also thinking maybe I shouldn't head out alone since I felt very dizzy. The last thing I remember is saying "I don't feel good" and then waking up to Will staring at me with a very concerned look on his face. I had fainted, in front of about 40 friends and I just wanted to die. How embarrassing. <br />
<br />
I have fainted many times, but it has not happened for 2 1/2 years. I could tell it was happening but it was in such a weird environment I didn't know what to do. I have been to doctors and what I do know is that I am not anemic but I do have very low blood pressure. And possibly the combination of being hungry and warm just led to me fainting. After that we went home and I went to bed. Anyone else out there have fainting spells? <br />
<br />
Ok, so just to recap- I now have a bum hip and I have fainted- not exactly the ideal body to continue training for a half marathon! I skipped soccer on Sunday -not that anybody would have let me play even if I wanted to. I went in to see the chiropractor again on Monday- she assured me that after one more visit I should be good to go, so I made it for Friday the 16th after getting home from 5th grade camp.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eZ7r3SD_RKc/ULkyDkwovGI/AAAAAAAACFQ/S7qQFW_Rb-Y/s1600/photo+%2528212%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eZ7r3SD_RKc/ULkyDkwovGI/AAAAAAAACFQ/S7qQFW_Rb-Y/s320/photo+%2528212%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We got the Eagle cabin- the only one right on the water!</td></tr>
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Yes, November 14-16th I went with my daughter to 5th grade camp at Camp Seymour. I spent 3 days and 2 nights hanging out with 10 year olds and going to science classes, dissecting squid and playing with snakes. I spent both nights as a chaperon in a cabin with 7 girls and 1 other adult- wow oh wow are those girls loud!! It was a lot of fun and I am so glad I decided to go. Fifth graders are hilarious by the way, and if you get a chance to go with your child to camp- go!<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LiU_T9C7R68/ULkyBRyWOmI/AAAAAAAACFI/fGh6BTJgCao/s1600/photo+%2528211%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LiU_T9C7R68/ULkyBRyWOmI/AAAAAAAACFI/fGh6BTJgCao/s320/photo+%2528211%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Devan and her mad archery skills</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4RigxG-fR9g/ULkx_hGG6WI/AAAAAAAACFA/6RRJyXhZh2w/s1600/photo+%2528210%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4RigxG-fR9g/ULkx_hGG6WI/AAAAAAAACFA/6RRJyXhZh2w/s320/photo+%2528210%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I loved visiting the snakes!</td></tr>
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Upon return I went to the chiropractor for the 4th time in 2 weeks- she gave me the all clear and to come back only if I needed it. Hooray! So on Saturday November 17th I went to Devan's soccer game in the morning, saw Breaking Dawn in the afternoon and then finally that evening went for a 6 mile run that didn't hurt. Except mentally- it was raining and dark so it was on the treadmill. Yuck. But I ran for the first time in 2 weeks and it didn't suck and I was hopeful that my hip would be ok.<br />
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The next day I played soccer in the evening- yes I am a glutton for punishment. But my body held up and we didn't have any subs so I played the entire game. I call that a WIN. The week leading up to the half marathon I did 6 miles on Tuesday and then on Thanksgiving my hubby and I headed out for 4 miles around the neighborhood. It is always a nice treat to run with him- my mom had the kids so we took advantage of that. <br />
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We had a nice Thanksgiving dinner at my mom's house, it was very relaxing and the food was really good. On black Friday I sat in my pajamas most of the day and watched it rain. I did a bit of online shopping and had no desire to venture out into retail hell. Next up- Amica Seattle Half Marathon recap!!!<br />
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Anybody score some amazing Black Friday deals? I went one year and it was horrible so I swore to never do it again! I had a shopping/sleep deprived hangover for about 3 days. I did manage to get the one thing I wanted but I would rather pay the extra $40 and not have to deal with crazy madness! <br />
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Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03085044548210730897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7300229258508059510.post-39351375517181343312012-10-25T23:18:00.000-07:002012-10-25T23:18:31.794-07:00Cheers!<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/ZR0v0i63PQ4?fs=1" width="480"></iframe><br />
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This was our theme song for the weekend. Play it while you read the post, then maybe you can feel like you were there with us and my ramblings won't seem so crazy! <br />
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So this blog post has very little to do with running- but if you are interested in how to have an amazing girl weekend that involves a lot of laughing, chatting, walking and consuming of delicious food than look no further!<br />
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My girlfriends and I have been planning this "girl trip" for several months now and between all of our crazy schedules we settled on October 19th-21st in Portland. So we booked a hotel right downtown and decided to have one dressy go out night and then do a lot of shopping/eating/walking the rest of the time. It was perfect. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RE0tkyZXvuc/UIolVSh222I/AAAAAAAACDg/b2MVL4UzoJ8/s1600/october+2012+064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RE0tkyZXvuc/UIolVSh222I/AAAAAAAACDg/b2MVL4UzoJ8/s400/october+2012+064.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sarah, Jaime, Kendra and me in our hotel lobby</td></tr>
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We ate sushi, frozen yogurt, pumpkin pancakes, cheese plates, burgers, halibut, duck and fancy desserts. And truffles. And doughnuts. Oh, and pineapple fried rice and fresh spring rolls from a food cart at 2:30am. I think I need to run 50 miles to burn it all off but it was totally worth every bite!! Oh, and a chocolate dipped macaroon. Better make it 55 miles. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MwWOFDdH9_k/UIokst1pQqI/AAAAAAAACCs/Uq09YUVI2NM/s1600/october+2012+054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MwWOFDdH9_k/UIokst1pQqI/AAAAAAAACCs/Uq09YUVI2NM/s400/october+2012+054.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mmmmm....beer</td></tr>
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We shopped at the mall, the Portland open market and stores like Nike, Lush, Powell's book store, Paper Source and Prana. We parked the car when we arrived on Friday and never got in it again until we left on Sunday so we walked A LOT!!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CjOAzCcQzYY/UIokqu8R1DI/AAAAAAAACCk/Abjnr8uPT3I/s1600/october+2012+055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CjOAzCcQzYY/UIokqu8R1DI/AAAAAAAACCk/Abjnr8uPT3I/s400/october+2012+055.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Right across from our hotel. By the way- don't drink that water. </td></tr>
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Here is a list of the places we went that I really enjoyed and suggest you visit if you are ever in Portland:<br />
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*Breakfast- Mother's Bistro (<a href="http://www.mothersbistro.com/">http://www.mothersbistro.com/</a>) -we waited a very long time for a table on Saturday but it was worth it. I had pumpkin pancakes and chicken sausage links and a Bloody Mary (which was really, really good). The girls all enjoyed their food as well, no complaints other than the long wait. Eat here and make your belly happy.<br />
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*Shopping- The Portland open market on Saturday was really nice. It is HUGE and has a lot of neat things to buy. I almost bought a duck tape wallet, but I did buy peacock earrings and some warm gloves that I LOVE. Also- go to Powell's book store. It is an independently owned bookstore that fills an entire city block (there are maps available!). I could have spent the day there. <a href="http://www.powells.com/">http://www.powells.com/</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i4cDra84gvo/UIok7Wi4tSI/AAAAAAAACDM/iWfhIdjbsOs/s1600/october+2012+078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i4cDra84gvo/UIok7Wi4tSI/AAAAAAAACDM/iWfhIdjbsOs/s400/october+2012+078.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My fancy friends- Kendra, Sarah, me and Jaime</td></tr>
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*Dinner- We had a really nice dinner at the Heathman Hotel. Sound familiar? We didn't see Fifty Shades there much to our dismay!! It is a classic french inspired restaurant -the presentation was really nice and the food was fantastic. After our meals we shared a cheese plate and then we each chose a different dessert so we could taste them all. It is pricey but overall I would say if you want to splurge on a meal you would not regret it here. <a href="http://portland.heathmanhotel.com/restaurants/restaurant-menus.aspx">http://portland.heathmanhotel.com/restaurants/restaurant-menus.aspx</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZYAZczpYIt0/UIokvYzfEBI/AAAAAAAACC0/QSj7426aKmo/s1600/october+2012+056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZYAZczpYIt0/UIokvYzfEBI/AAAAAAAACC0/QSj7426aKmo/s400/october+2012+056.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My dinner at the Heathman. Halibut, leeks and fingerling potatoes. </td></tr>
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*Entertainment- We decided to go see this show <a href="http://www.darcellexv.com/">http://www.darcellexv.com/</a> on Saturday night and it was hilarious! We called and reserved a spot and they said to arrive by 10pm for the 10:30pm show and after a taxi incident we arrived at 10:05pm to be informed that we needed to wait in line they only take reservations up until 10pm. So make sure to get there very early!!! We still had decent seats but I would have been mad if we didn't get in to see the show. We stayed for the male centerfold show at midnight but to be honest it wasn't really much of a "show". Mostly the guys just took off their clothes and then went into the audience to give out touchy feely lap dances. Not really my scene! I was not really paying attention and suddenly one of the guys was right on me dancing and so I tucked my dollar bill in his undies and Kendra was just sitting by me chuckling knowing how uncomfortable I was. Then he moved on to her and it was my turn to laugh at her! Ha that was probably the best part for me. We left soon after that. So watch the Darcelle show, but I would say the centerfolds are not really worth it. Good thing we didn't pay extra for that part!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MEXj2CytgJw/UIok08CC_rI/AAAAAAAACC8/W-ppIyIK9oY/s1600/october+2012+073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MEXj2CytgJw/UIok08CC_rI/AAAAAAAACC8/W-ppIyIK9oY/s400/october+2012+073.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The cast of the Darcelle show. I think the lady with the legs must be a runner!</td></tr>
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*Dessert- Kendra talked about Papa Hadyn and their desserts so much we had to stop in and get something when we walked by. I wanted one of everything but I chose a chocolate dipped macaroon and it was amazing. Holy yum. Go eat dessert here <a href="http://www.papahaydn.com/">http://www.papahaydn.com/</a> you will not be disappointed. And if you love chocolate half as much as I do, do yourself a favor and stop by one of the many Moonstruck Chocolate Co. cafe's and have a truffle. They also have drinking chocolate and many other amazing chocolate things to eat. <a href="http://www.moonstruckchocolate.com/">http://www.moonstruckchocolate.com/</a> . We also went to Voodoo Doughnut on the way out of town -I am not a huge fan of doughnuts but I admit these are pretty creative and tasty. I ate a chocolate one that was dipped in crushed butterfingers. Maybe I need to run closer 100 miles to burn all of this off...<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vJxCXfNyMqM/UIok445y7qI/AAAAAAAACDE/3UisLQU-jz4/s1600/october+2012+075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vJxCXfNyMqM/UIok445y7qI/AAAAAAAACDE/3UisLQU-jz4/s400/october+2012+075.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We may have re-enacted a little Gangnam Style in our elevator</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EXbOsrqhqrM/UIoqWrdx09I/AAAAAAAACEI/xDSlkI3k2PE/s1600/gangnam.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="383" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EXbOsrqhqrM/UIoqWrdx09I/AAAAAAAACEI/xDSlkI3k2PE/s400/gangnam.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Almost but not quite the same...</td></tr>
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*If you are hungry at 2am then I recommend walking really far in the rain to wherever the food trucks are. Totally worth it, and you get to meet fun people like Michael from Poland who made Sarah some french fries and a Gyro and watch really drunk people wander by several times in search of their hotel. The food trucks are open during the daytime too, but we learned they stay open until 4-6am for the bar folks! They literally made fried rice for me while I watched them, and rolled up my fresh tofu spring rolls. Good stuff.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OlMsU8GeDI4/UIok-NcKzII/AAAAAAAACDU/08rM5-EsEbI/s1600/october+2012+079.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OlMsU8GeDI4/UIok-NcKzII/AAAAAAAACDU/08rM5-EsEbI/s400/october+2012+079.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I was laughing so hard that I was crying here. Good times with some silly friends. <br />
I recommend bringing a friend with a long arm -thanks Jaime!! Push the button!</td></tr>
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It was nice to get away from everyday life for a few days though. No long run to do, no kids to feed, no work, no bills, no chores! It was a nice way to recharge and spend time with friends I have know most of my life. I met Kendra when we were about 7, Jaime when we were 11 and Sarah and I met when we were about 16. I am thankful for good, lifelong friends. Cheers!<br />
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Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03085044548210730897noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7300229258508059510.post-79027359483352381902012-10-17T22:50:00.000-07:002012-10-17T22:50:07.561-07:00Defiance 30K Recap<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-43Di_vMj-8c/UH-T1k0CLfI/AAAAAAAACA0/dqo3-RDT9n8/s1600/october+2012+021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-43Di_vMj-8c/UH-T1k0CLfI/AAAAAAAACA0/dqo3-RDT9n8/s400/october+2012+021.JPG" width="247" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready for my 30K!</td></tr>
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Saturday morning my alarm went off around 5am so I could get some breakfast in me before I started getting nervous. I ate a blueberry bagel with some berry preserves and drank a glass of water before getting dressed- a peek outside told me it was raining but that didn't really suprise me. At 6am I ate a cliff bar but by the last bite I was forcing it down so I threw my banana in my race bag and decided I could eat it while I waited for the race to start. I decided to leave around 6:30am to make sure I got a good parking spot and have plenty of time to get myself ready to run. I packed enough stuff so that if the world ended while I was running I could survive for about 3 weeks. Seriously, I had extra clothes, tons of fuel and water, protein bars, coats and shoes plus garbage bags and my trusty banana (which I never did eat!).<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dlgUzbA3mSc/UH-UWjwoIWI/AAAAAAAACB8/BMKSreBiYoQ/s1600/photo+%2528203%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dlgUzbA3mSc/UH-UWjwoIWI/AAAAAAAACB8/BMKSreBiYoQ/s400/photo+%2528203%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The fuel!</td></tr>
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The one thing I didn't bring that I wish I had? My snuggie. That would have been nice and cozy while I sat in my car freezing to death waiting for the race to start! So since I live 2 miles from the start line I was way too early but it was nice to slowly get myself together and not stress about anything for that last hour before the race. The rain was pretty solid off and on and I finally decided to get out of the car and use the bathroom and figure out where I would leave my drop bag. While in line for the bathroom suddenly Nicole and Lindsay walked by and said hi. Nicole was running the 15K (she was supposed to run the 50K but is coming back from an injury) and Lindsay really was running the 50K! Lindsay did an awesome job and Nicole supported her by running the final lap with her. Read their reports <a href="http://www.lindsayonthego.com/2012/10/defiance-50k-race-report.html">HERE</a> and <a href="http://www.ricoleruns.com/2012/10/pt-defiance-30k-time-i-got-dead-last.html">HERE</a> if you want to hear some other perspectives on this race and the different distance options. <br />
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I said hi to several people I knew, and then found my friend Zach. I threw my drop bag down near his on a picnic table covered in plastic, reluctantly threw my jacket inside of it and went to get in line for the start gun. Zach was running the 30K and his friend David was running the 50K so I decided to start out with them even though I figured they would be faster than me. The race starts on a straight paved sidewalk, then goes up a large wooden staircase before heading into the trails. I kept up with them for about a mile or so, but I knew if I stayed with them I would push myself too hard in the first few uphill miles and my race would suck. I know my pace and it is the opposite of fast on those trails. Slow and steady was my goal, so I just eased up and soon they were gone from sight but I didn't mind. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KV2bIF9V_lg/UH-T9Z_wHiI/AAAAAAAACA8/sDHjZ1fMWTA/s1600/october+2012+027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KV2bIF9V_lg/UH-T9Z_wHiI/AAAAAAAACA8/sDHjZ1fMWTA/s400/october+2012+027.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I just finished my first trip up Achille's Hill and then back down!</td></tr>
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Around the rhodedendron garden I was suddenly next to Steve from my Ragnar team so we chatted for a bit and then he was pulling ahead of me as well. Then all of a sudden there were runners coming straight at us and telling us to "turn around, we were going the wrong way!" and I was like "are they serious?". Yes, a group of 20-30 of us (including Steve but not Zach, Nicole or Lindsay) had indeed missed a turn and were going in the wrong direction. Turns out somebody had flipped a sign around on the course- by the time I got back on track it was probably about an extra 2 miles. I would really like to have a chat with that person. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ESnIG6bRmBc/UH-UA5ZJ-KI/AAAAAAAACBI/oYLeViKOPbQ/s1600/october+2012+029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ESnIG6bRmBc/UH-UA5ZJ-KI/AAAAAAAACBI/oYLeViKOPbQ/s400/october+2012+029.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Devan joined me for a few minutes</td></tr>
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So after that little episode I was trying to convince myself that 2 extra miles wasn't that big of a deal. Even though I knew it was actually pretty significant. And I could probably kiss my time goal goodbye. But there wasn't anything I could do but keep on running so that is what I did! I fueled with gels every 40 minutes or so and refilled my water at the aid station. I passed a couple of walkers on a very narrow trail. I saw a couple of runner's bite the dust. I speed walked as fast as possible up Achille's Hill, and tried to make up time running back down (that was fun!). Will and Devan found me down past the dog park and snapped some photos. I chatted with a lady named Heidi that runs the Bee Hive massage at the YMCA for the last few miles before we headed back down to the Start/Finish line.<br />
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Speaking of heading back down to the starting area- so Nellie's Gnarly Descent was the last part of the course I was unsure of. Basically you head off of the main road and hike down, down, down a cliff and there is a rope for you to hold onto for part of it so you don't <strike>die </strike>fall and hurt yourself. The first trip down it wasn't too bad actually and I managed to be rather graceful. Once at the bottom I hustled towards the timing matts and logged a stellar time of 2:15:56 and my garmin told me I had ran 12.6 miles (should have been 10.3) so I figure I had managed to add 2.3 miles to my first lap. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SKoLEwXCza0/UH-UEMQ6d9I/AAAAAAAACBQ/zmfwyBxzTO4/s1600/october+2012+030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SKoLEwXCza0/UH-UEMQ6d9I/AAAAAAAACBQ/zmfwyBxzTO4/s400/october+2012+030.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">See ya!</td></tr>
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I used the bathroom really quick and like an idiot skipped past the aid station and didn't refill my water bottles. I was keeping up with my fueling and I actually felt really good at that point still. And then came the stairs, and the hills- those hills in the first couple miles are just never ending! I know the exact point it finally levels off and every time I turn that corner it is like my heart stops beating out of my chest and I can breath! This time there were volunteers standing in the pathway making sure we went the right way which was awesome. No need to tack on any more miles thank you very much! About a mile before I reached the aid station at Fort Nisqually I ran out of water completely. Not a good sign, and I had been rationing my water after I realized I hadn't topped off so I was actually quite thirsty. <br />
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Once I reached the aid station I refilled both water bottles and drank quite a bit. I was feeling kind of yucky at that point- a little bit dizzy and a tad nauseated so I was grazing on a couple of chips and a piece of watermelon hoping it would magically make me feel better. I had 5 miles to go and I think my garmin said I was close to 18 miles at that point. I set off back down the hill and a few miles later I looked at my watch because it beeped at me that the battery was low and I noticed that it was on pause- and it still said 18 miles! Great. I must have bumped it at the aid station or stopped it out of habit and not realized it. <br />
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The last mile of that race was the longest mile EVER in my life. I could see the time on my watch and I knew if I hurried I could still possibly make it in under 4 hours and 15 minutes but it would be close. Once I hit the road I tried to match pace with this guy in front of me, allowing him to pull me along until the climb back down to Owen's beach. This time the descent was a little more difficult. The dirt was looser and my legs were jello- I took a long miss-step at one point and by some miracle my left quad actually held me up. There was a guy standing just below and he said "good save!" and I was like "I am just glad my legs still work!" cause that would have been a fine way to end my 30K by rolling down to the finish line!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6hMvQP2yHIM/UH-UOp0f90I/AAAAAAAACBo/5htLjQmUsbc/s1600/photo+%2528205%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6hMvQP2yHIM/UH-UOp0f90I/AAAAAAAACBo/5htLjQmUsbc/s400/photo+%2528205%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The beautiful finish line</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I finally broke free of the trail and headed out onto the pavement toward the beautiful sight of the finish line using every ounce of energy I had left. I could hear Zach and Nicole cheering me on and that was so awesome and encouraging- thanks guys! My time for lap 2 was 1:54:10 making my total time for the "30K" 4:10:07. I still beat my C goal! Zach took one look at my feet and declared me "too clean"- I guess I am a tidy runner. My shoes were muddy around the bottom and I had a ton of dirt inside my shoes but my calf sleeves were clean. Interesting. I wandered around a bit and threw my gear in the car and grabbed a sandwich. I sat with Nicole for a few minutes while she waited for Lindsay to come through on her second lap and then they both set off for one more loop. I headed home so I could go watch my daughter play soccer at 1:30pm before finally settling down in my recliner and not moving for the remainder of the day!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EfwviJCIDks/UH-UMdKxMCI/AAAAAAAACBg/G7e1FysUqUo/s1600/photo+%2528206%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EfwviJCIDks/UH-UMdKxMCI/AAAAAAAACBg/G7e1FysUqUo/s400/photo+%2528206%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My "too clean" legs and feet!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-teXZ-Ktf3MM/UH-UHy6wATI/AAAAAAAACBY/BqD98mA_Trw/s1600/photo+%2528207%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-teXZ-Ktf3MM/UH-UHy6wATI/AAAAAAAACBY/BqD98mA_Trw/s400/photo+%2528207%2529.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DONE!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I absolutely loved everything about this race. It was very different from a road race- the runners were much friendlier and easygoing. There was just a different attitude in general. I loved that we all just left our bags out on tables trusting that nobody would mess with them. I loved chatting with random people along the way and being surrounded by nature the entire time. I never felt dread during this race and I never wished it was over. Those things are important to me- I do not want to spend money and time on something that I don't enjoy. I distinctly remember reminding myself in those last 5 miles to relax and enjoy my race- the race that I spent the last 2 1/2 months training for. And that is what I did. Best race ever. If you are interested in a trail race or an ultra in the Seattle/Tacoma area- <a href="http://www.defiance50k.com/">THIS</a> is the one you should do!! I will be back next year. Thank you Tacoma City Marathon Association for making me proud to live and race in Tacoma. </div>
<br />
Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03085044548210730897noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7300229258508059510.post-9609138776591517782012-10-12T20:10:00.000-07:002012-10-12T20:10:21.621-07:00In Twelve HoursIn twelve hours...<br />
<br />
I will be at the starting line of my first ever 30K trail race! I am so ready to get the show on the road, I have taken my taper to the extreme this week and done ZERO running. None. I ran 8 miles last Friday and then life happened this week and a run just never happened. I did one random session of P90X2 Yoga and some foam rolling on Tuesday and then I worked an extra shift on Wednesday and went to see Pitch Perfect with some friends that night instead of running. So I am nice and tapered- my muscles should be ready to go in the morning!<br />
<br />
And I have been carb loading all week too. Skinny rules -what skinny rules? White rice, white pasta, potatoes, bagels...a cookie here and there. And M&M's. Oh and a cupcake- but it was my birthday so that doesn't count right? My diet has been carbolicious but I am ready to get back to my healthier eating next week. After I consume the thousands of calories I am about to burn. In twelve hours.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eQEKdLHsViM/UHjZpvqov3I/AAAAAAAACAQ/CKhs3MFT7QU/s1600/photo+(204).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eQEKdLHsViM/UHjZpvqov3I/AAAAAAAACAQ/CKhs3MFT7QU/s400/photo+(204).JPG" width="297" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blue Nike tech tee, Running Skirts skirtcamp camo athletic skirt, Zensah calf sleeves</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I have my outfit laid out- I altered it just a bit since Fall has decided to arrive in a hurry. The weather is supposed to be rather rainy- how ironic that the last time it rained was the day of my last race. It poured on the first day of Ragnar in July and I don't think it has rained since. I don't mind running in the rain- I actually prefer the rain over heat and wind. Kind of like that time I trained for a marathon in 40 and 50 degree weather and then on race day it was 70 and I wanted to die. This is the opposite so I am hoping it works in my favor! I trained in the warm weather and now I will run while it's cool and wet so it should feel easier right?<br />
<br />
I helped out at packet pickup today at the brand new Fleet Feet store that opened up in the Proctor district in Tacoma. It is so nice inside and I am really excited to have a running store so close to me- it is literally across the street from the school my kids attend. Dangerous. I was given a tour of the new Tacoma City Marathon Association office upstairs and the building is really nice. They are also selling Skirt Sports and Oiselle clothing. You should go check it out if you are in the area.<br />
<br />
I have been playing with my fueling during training and I find that I feel much better if I take a gel or half of a pack of chews every 35-40 minutes or so. I tried 45 minutes and it was too long and my energy starts to drop. I also ate a kid size cliff bar during my 16 and 18 milers and my stomach was just fine. I ate a honey stinger waffle one time and that did NOT go over well but I should probably have eaten bites of it instead of the whole thing. So I am debating bringing a cut up cliff bar so I can eat a bite here and there if I want it. <br />
<br />
I am assuming the race will take me 4 hours but I really have no time goal in mind. If I could finish in 3 hours 50 minutes I would be impressed and if it takes more than 4 hours 15 minutes I will be a bit disappointed. The total distance works out to 20.6 trail miles with each loop being 10.3 miles. The only time I have ever ran farther than this was at my marathon a year and a half ago! I will keep you all posted sometime in the next few days. Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03085044548210730897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7300229258508059510.post-6169812504289927722012-09-27T22:43:00.001-07:002012-09-27T22:43:17.594-07:00Trail Running Rambles<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u7sNgi0bVVc/UGUzSPc5pZI/AAAAAAAAB-o/0eSWDgvaDTQ/s1600/september+2012+150.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u7sNgi0bVVc/UGUzSPc5pZI/AAAAAAAAB-o/0eSWDgvaDTQ/s400/september+2012+150.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the Salmon Beach area of the Defiance 30K course. <br />
That is the Narrows Bridge in the distance.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Well the time has almost arrived- in 15 days I will be tackling my big 30K trail race (race details <a href="http://www.defiance50k.com/">HERE</a>)! I have been so focused on this race since Ragnar that I have not even entertained the idea of signing up for any other races. Seriously, friends have been racing and posting pictures at events and I am just oddly content to quietly cheer them on from work or my couch. I was a little sad to miss out on the local You Go Girl Half Marathon since I had done it for the last 2 years, but honestly I just didn't have the desire to do it. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K9eOOwwd38I/UGUy_ROxUjI/AAAAAAAAB-Y/NcC4IyEIfKQ/s1600/september+2012+142.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K9eOOwwd38I/UGUy_ROxUjI/AAAAAAAAB-Y/NcC4IyEIfKQ/s400/september+2012+142.PNG" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the course. I mapped it out and carried one with me in <br />
my pocket during my run. I still got lost.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
That, and the fact that up until last weekend I was a little bit nervous about how I would perform on race day. I mean 30K is no joke, and the fact that it is all on trails makes it that much more challenging! So I have been out on those trails every single Friday, spending hours just running and running and running to make sure that I am ready. Since I last blogged I did go out and run 16 miles. And then last Friday I attempted to follow the race course and ran 18 miles!! I got lost and off course several times but I think I get the idea- and the race director promised me that the course would be well marked. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kYRpFJCMR5s/UGUzPisHTlI/AAAAAAAAB-g/QlIlBNMpbmU/s1600/september+2012+147.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kYRpFJCMR5s/UGUzPisHTlI/AAAAAAAAB-g/QlIlBNMpbmU/s400/september+2012+147.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I started my run here at Owen's Beach </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Yes, I know the race director for the Tacoma City Marathon Association- he happens to be a customer of mine and an extremely nice guy. He is also one of the founders of the Marathon Maniacs- he is maniac number 3 Tony Phillippi. I was chatting with him a couple of weeks ago and he encouraged me to get in an 18 mile training run and now that I have I am very thankful that I took his advice. I feel very ready to run this race, and I know that I may be slow out there but I have what it takes to enjoy my run and be proud of my training. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uAZ3azQWydU/UGUzouzlY5I/AAAAAAAAB-4/SHMt1cjWXZc/s1600/september+2012+154.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uAZ3azQWydU/UGUzouzlY5I/AAAAAAAAB-4/SHMt1cjWXZc/s400/september+2012+154.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I thought these trees were really pretty. I was also pretty sure I was completely lost at this<br />
moment but- suprise! I actually wasn't lost at this point.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
When I signed up for this race it was an early birthday present to myself - my birthday is October 8th and the race is October 13th. Other women buy themselves jewelry, I buy myself hours of running alone out on dirt trails. Yep, never claimed to be normal! Anyways, it will be my first race in my new age bracket since I am turning 35 I will be grouped with the 35-39 year olds. I have no clue if that will help me, hinder me or make no difference whatsoever but I will find out soon enough! HA!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iP0s2nLzctA/UGUzr23erVI/AAAAAAAAB_A/dtleLekx-BI/s1600/september+2012+156.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iP0s2nLzctA/UGUzr23erVI/AAAAAAAAB_A/dtleLekx-BI/s400/september+2012+156.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I loved running through here, although it was really secluded and I had no <br />
idea where I was or if I was going the right way!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My 18 mile run went really well. It took me 3.5 hours to finish, which sounds like a really long time but remember that running on trails with rocks/loose dirt and HILLS galore (steep up and steep down) your pace is typically a couple of minutes slower. Factor in that I have only done a handful of runs ever (and on pavement) over the 14 mile mark and my pace is just pretty slow out there. I have learned to just turn that function off on my garmin because I don't care about pace when I am running 18 miles on trails- what matters more to me is that I am staying hydrated and fueled and enjoying myself. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-82NTVK7bIRg/UGUz_HGgJPI/AAAAAAAAB_U/-FQJAm2VQSk/s1600/september+2012+158.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-82NTVK7bIRg/UGUz_HGgJPI/AAAAAAAAB_U/-FQJAm2VQSk/s400/september+2012+158.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I popped out here not once, but TWICE! <br />
Definitely not in the right spot. Oops.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I have learned that I love running the trails. I love that there aren't any cars. I love that there are trees and deer and nature sounds and chipmunks. It is peaceful and my mind stays busy the entire time because the second I stop paying attention I get lost. Oh, who am I fooling- that happens whether I am paying attention or not but I just don't care if I get lost anymore because when you are running 18 miles you have time to get lost and find your way again. I love that I can run for hours without music and I don't miss it. I love that when I get home and take off my shoes and socks it looks like I was actually running barefoot because my feet are caked in dirt. Ok, I don't really love that part but it makes me feel like a bad ass.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LaMp8KlWZIs/UGUzhV1Hx4I/AAAAAAAAB-w/XrWl8yLfhWU/s1600/september+2012+151.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LaMp8KlWZIs/UGUzhV1Hx4I/AAAAAAAAB-w/XrWl8yLfhWU/s400/september+2012+151.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Had to add one nice cheesy photo of me in for good measure!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MqbzO9EWkbA/UGU1vFGPGnI/AAAAAAAAB_c/-G6WfijI8j0/s1600/photo+%2528195%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="301" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MqbzO9EWkbA/UGU1vFGPGnI/AAAAAAAAB_c/-G6WfijI8j0/s400/photo+%2528195%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is how my run went- you can see I kind of went in the right direction. <br />
And you can see the lovely elevation chart as well!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I did go for a run down on the nice, flat, paved waterfront yesterday just to be sure there was some speed left in these legs of mine. I managed to do 5.5 miles at an average pace of 8:53 so it is still in there somewhere!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M5eBcVtfbCA/UGUzvuqvjxI/AAAAAAAAB_I/R6cfcVjHbpo/s1600/september+2012+157.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M5eBcVtfbCA/UGUzvuqvjxI/AAAAAAAAB_I/R6cfcVjHbpo/s400/september+2012+157.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crunchy leaves- I think Fall has arrived! <br />
Don't tell anyone but it is my FAVORITE season.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03085044548210730897noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7300229258508059510.post-42182074327882726032012-09-11T23:51:00.001-07:002012-09-11T23:51:26.128-07:0030K Training UpdateRight now I am 3 long runs and a taper week away from my big 30K trail run on October 13th. So what has my training looked like over the last month? I created a "training plan" of sorts for myself and this is how it went- I sure hope what I am doing is enough!<br />
<br />
Aug 12th-19th: 6 mile run, 8 mile run, 9 mile run (trails) = 23 miles<br />
Aug 20th-26th: 6 mile run, 4 mile run (on sand), 10 mile run = 20 miles<br />
Aug 27th-Sept 2nd: 10 mile run (treadmill), 5 mile run, 12 mile run (trails) = 27 miles<br />
Sept 3rd-9th: 5 mile run, 8 mile run, 14 mile run (trails) = 27 miles<br />
Sept 10th-16th: 5 mile run, 6 mile run (tomorrow), 14 mile run (plan for Friday- trails) = 25 miles<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DglwvPJMQus/UFAuSgXNqhI/AAAAAAAAB9Q/Ady4sJPd6H0/s1600/photo+%2528190%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DglwvPJMQus/UFAuSgXNqhI/AAAAAAAAB9Q/Ady4sJPd6H0/s400/photo+%2528190%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is where I parked last week- main trail head for all 3 trails</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I am absolutely in love with running on trails, especially the trail system at Point Defiance. It is so nice to have miles and miles of beautiful nature where you can still feel safe, have access to restrooms and your car if necessary and an added bonus for me is that it is literally only 2 miles from my house. How have I taken 2 1/2 years to discover this amazing place to run when it is in my backyard?? <br />
<br />
I went on one of my usual routes the other day down to Wright Park and found that I was rather irritated waiting at stoplights and dodging cars/bikes/strollers/dogs. Plus one reason I enjoy running is to be alone with my thoughts and just have some inner quiet time. Between my kids, my husband and my job I am usually talking ALL DAY LONG and it is nice to just have quiet surrounding me for a change. In fact I rarely take music with me on my runs anymore. Crazy I know, but I am actually quite content with my own brain to entertain myself! <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FsiEHT8hOZ4/UFAuV-9nSaI/AAAAAAAAB9Y/VJu_VEP7vRI/s1600/photo+%2528191%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FsiEHT8hOZ4/UFAuV-9nSaI/AAAAAAAAB9Y/VJu_VEP7vRI/s400/photo+%2528191%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">They make it look so simple...and check out those elevation charts!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So last Friday I ran 14 miles down at Point Defiance, all of it on the trails. Once again I had a grand plan: do the triangle trail twice, the circle once, and the square once- that added up nicely to about 14 miles and it would allow me to loop past my car every 4 or so miles so I didn't have to carry my fuel or water with me. I headed out on the triangle trail and after a while I realized I had taken a wrong turn and was unsure which way to go. Eventually I hopped onto the circle trail and followed it back out to my car but by then I was almost to 5 miles and I was thirsty and annoyed. Why do I get lost on that trail every time? I should have been back to my car at 3.5 miles! I finally have the other 2 trails memorized and I know my way around pretty well- or so I thought! <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aDvaljc6Xvw/UFAuZEgmwgI/AAAAAAAAB9o/9tybTjFMDPA/s1600/photo+%2528193%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aDvaljc6Xvw/UFAuZEgmwgI/AAAAAAAAB9o/9tybTjFMDPA/s400/photo+%2528193%2529.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready for the trails!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Change of plans, I didn't want to risk getting lost again when it was so hot out and I was determined to keep my hands free and not carry water. So I went around the outer square trail twice, then finished with a mile or so down the circle trail and back to make 14 miles. I don't think I fueled properly during this run- it was warmer than I realized and even though I was shaded from the sun the air was still very hot and there wasn't much of a breeze. I ate 3 shot blocks after 5 miles and drank about 4 ounces of water. Then around mile 9 I was really hungry- like my belly was actually growling- so I sat in my car for a few minutes and ate a kid's cliff bar (honey oat), ate one shot block and drank some orange nuun. I was hoping that would all sit ok as I started running again, and to my surprise it was just fine. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rjr-W5ZGaSg/UFAuX8YcixI/AAAAAAAAB9g/sjICGsEh4Ww/s1600/photo+%2528192%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rjr-W5ZGaSg/UFAuX8YcixI/AAAAAAAAB9g/sjICGsEh4Ww/s400/photo+%2528192%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Don't look down!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I probably should have carried water for those last 5 miles, plus brought those last 2 pieces of shot block but I was intending to stop by the car one last time. However, when I got close to my car I thought I might lose my desire to finish the 14 miles if I stopped for a minute so I just headed down the trail to finish the last 1.5 miles. I finished around 1:30 in the afternoon and I was hot, thirsty and completely worn out. I ate a protein bar, downed my nuun and headed home to get cleaned up. It took me 2 hours and 33 minutes to run 14 miles of trails- not bad, and my pace is slowly improving out there. The last time I ran a half marathon was in June. And the last time I ran farther than that was almost a year ago!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tDW4a1CS07U/UFAv2KP1TQI/AAAAAAAAB90/7Hnq_t5IN10/s1600/photo+(194).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tDW4a1CS07U/UFAv2KP1TQI/AAAAAAAAB90/7Hnq_t5IN10/s400/photo+(194).JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My feet were SO dirty! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
That night I ended up with an awful headache that would not go away and I fell fast asleep on the couch at 8:30pm. I would say that my run was a success but my fueling/recovery were not! So I am going to repeat the 14 mile run this week and make it my goal to fuel better and recover better- and I have recruited a running buddy to meet up with me for part of the run. However- part of me wants to aim for 16 miles instead of 14. That part of me that doesn't like to fail and wants to always be prepared thinks I should run farther than I did last week. <br />
<br />
I have until Friday to figure it out. What do you think I should do? Run 14 again or aim for 16 instead? <br />
<br />
Anyone out there training for something amazing? How is it going? <br />
<br />
Who is running You Go Girl this weekend? I am a little sad to miss it this year but the timing just didn't work out for me. Good luck to those of you running- Alyssa, Mel, Meredith- and others I am probably forgetting! Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03085044548210730897noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7300229258508059510.post-50679346066036923572012-09-01T17:16:00.000-07:002012-09-01T17:16:02.608-07:00A NominationSo while I was on vacation the lovely Allyson at <a href="http://superrunnermom.blogspot.com/">(so not) Super Runner Mom</a> nominated my blog for an award -actually 2, the Versatile Blogger Award and the Liebster Award but I am just going to follow the rules for the Liebster. Thanks for thinking of me Allyson!<br />
<br />
The Liebster Blog award asks the blogger to do the following:<br />1. Answer 11
questions posted by the person who nominated you.<br />2. List 11 random facts
about yourself.<br />3. Nominate 11 blogs.<br />4. Write 11 questions for the blogs
you nominate.<br />
So here goes nothing- the answers to Allyson's questions!<br />
<br />
<strong>1. What is the oldest piece of clothing in your wardrobe (that you
actually wear)?</strong><br />
<span style="color: blue;">Probably a khaki skirt that I wear to work from Old Navy. It is cargo style and I bought it about 8 or 9 years ago but I love it. Sadly it is starting to wear on the back pockets so this is probably my last summer with it.</span><br />
<span style="color: purple;"></span><br /><strong>2. What is your favorite
drink?</strong><br />
<span style="color: blue;">Well, lately my favorite is really cold, pure tasting water since I am not supposed to be drinking my calories. But I really love iced coffee without sweetener and a splash of milk.</span><br /><strong></strong><br />
<strong>3. What's your favorite race
distance?</strong><br />
<span style="color: blue;">I love half marathons! It is the perfect distance for me</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br /><strong>4. If you could give your teenage self just
one piece of advice, what would it be?</strong><br />
<span style="color: blue;">Start running!!! I wish that I had started running in my younger years, but I guess starting at age 32 is better than nothing :)</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br /><strong>5. What did you
study/major in college? </strong><br />
<span style="color: blue;">I double majored at Central Washington University in 4 years, graduating in 2000. I have BA's in Psychology and Family and Consumer Studies intending to get my master's and become a family therapist. Halfway through my 4th year I changed my mind but finished my degree's anyways. Some day I will go back and get a degree I will actually use!</span><br />
<br /><strong>6. Cilantro - love or hate?
(I've determined that there is no in between on this
issue)</strong><br />
<span style="color: blue;">LOVE it, especially in homemade guacamole. </span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br /><strong>7. Brandon or Dylan? (Inspired by the Old Navy
commercials)</strong><br />
<span style="color: blue;">OMG, Dylan all the way! I had the biggest crush on him forever. Hmmm...maybe I still do!</span><br /><strong></strong><br />
<strong>8. Have you ever run a relay? If yes,
which one? If no, why not?</strong><br />
<span style="color: blue;">I have ran the Ragnar Northwest Passage for the last two years as well as the Rainier to Ruston relay last June. I have been invited to do the Spokane to Sandpoint relay on an all girl ultra team next year- not sure I am quite ready for that but I am tempted!!!</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br /><strong>9. How did you celebrate
your 21st birthday?</strong><br />
<span style="color: blue;">Oh dear. My roommate and I turned 21 about a week apart in college so we went out together in Ellensburg and our friends fed us drinks all night. After my friend bought me a prairie fire (tequila and tobasco) I couldn't drink tequila for years. I got a C on my statistics test the next day, I don't think my professor was too impressed.</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br /><strong>10. What movie(s) could you watch
over and over again?</strong><br />
<span style="color: blue;">I don't watch movies too often. Lame I know, but I love oldies like Goonies, Dirty Dancing, the Breakfast Club or romantic comedies like How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days or The Notebook. I have watched the Twilight movies a lot. Oh, and Elf. I could watch that one over and over again for sure! </span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br /><strong>11. How often do you update your
blog?</strong><br /><br />
<span style="color: blue;">Sometimes frequently. Sometimes not very often at all. Pretty much when I have time and something to talk about! </span><br />
<br />
<strong><span style="color: black;">And my 11 random things:</span></strong><br />
<br />
1. I worked at a daycare while I was in High School and the kids all called me TT because apparently Tiffany is a mouthful for little kids!<br />
<br />
2. When I was a kid I didn't like peanut butter and now I could pretty much eat it with every meal. My mom must have been really annoyed that I didn't like it. I should ask her.<br />
<br />
3. I hate shopping for clothes- like actual day to day clothes. I am terrible at fashion and tend to just buy boring shirts and simple pants and skirts because I am not creative that way. And I do not know how to accessorize, nor do I like to wear jewelry. If I could live in workout/running gear all day I would be happy!<br />
<br />
4. My first car was a 1983 Honda Accord that my dad taught me how to drive since it was a stick shift. I am always amazed when adults don't know how to drive a 5 speed.<br />
<br />
5. I was in 5th year French when I was a senior in High School. I can still understand it a bit and would love to visit France. Or move there.<br />
<br />
6. I love dark beer- porters and stouts especially. But I can usually only drink one since they are so rich.<br />
<br />
7. When I am an old lady I will eat ice cream every single day.<br />
<br />
8. I wanted to have 4 kids so I could have a big family. Then I had my first and she was such a <strike>pill </strike>delight that I had to reassess. So 2 is much more reasonable! My grandmother is one of 10- my great grandparents were saints!!<br />
<br />
9. I have sold Mary Kay, Partylite and Pampered Chef. I am not very good at running my own business, but I love to host parties!!<br />
<br />
10. I have 5 tattoos. I really want to cover one of them so I have been trying to come up with a design I like. <br />
<br />
11. I have been wearing glasses/contacts since I was in 7th grade and would love to have Lasik Eye surgery. I can't even imagine what it would be like to wake up in the morning and be able to see clearly!!<br />
<br />
I am not going to nominate 11 blogs- simply because I think most that I follow have already done this or been nominated. And I am feeling kind of lazy. So if you want to answer some of Allyson's questions too, leave them in a comment for me!! Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03085044548210730897noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7300229258508059510.post-38157762573293325052012-08-31T23:54:00.000-07:002012-08-31T23:54:05.748-07:00Running at the Beach!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O4jYIRNssEY/UEGraaW5pjI/AAAAAAAAB7U/MXxKxyR9HUw/s1600/august+2012+phone+021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O4jYIRNssEY/UEGraaW5pjI/AAAAAAAAB7U/MXxKxyR9HUw/s400/august+2012+phone+021.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My running shoes are introduced to the beach!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Last weekend my family took a vacation to Longbeach, WA for 6 days- so of course I had to get some running in while I was there! We rented a small 2 bedroom cabin with a kitchen and back deck about 1/3 of a mile from the beach. I will post some vacation pictures in a day or two, but for now here is how my 2 runs went! </div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2m8YIRMyo3M/UEGrhMArFAI/AAAAAAAAB7c/5YQRqVal4yY/s1600/august+2012+phone+022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2m8YIRMyo3M/UEGrhMArFAI/AAAAAAAAB7c/5YQRqVal4yY/s400/august+2012+phone+022.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the direction I was heading- the kites are in the distance. And apparently my thumb is in <br />
the top corner and I am too lazy to fix it.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
On Friday I had convinced my daughter to go run with me on the beach, but the second she found out that the boys were hitting the pool while we were out she ditched me! Can you believe it? Haha, I couldn't blame her- she is like a little fish in the water- so I ended up running alone. I set out for the beach, and headed out through the dunes into the soft sand. Which is really hard to run in by the way. I actually think my walking pace and running pace were about the same until I got down onto the harder packed sand! <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vpm9VORpnv0/UEGrohgtwQI/AAAAAAAAB7k/CT-2cOJeg5M/s1600/august+2012+phone+029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vpm9VORpnv0/UEGrohgtwQI/AAAAAAAAB7k/CT-2cOJeg5M/s400/august+2012+phone+029.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The beautiful ocean</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
But the sun was out and the waves were crashing and there were kites from the kite festival in the distance so I just went to my happy running place and set off down the beach. I saw tons of birds, lots of dead crabs, some jelly fish, kites and a couple of other runners on my adventure. After 2 miles I turned around and headed back, and by mile 3 my legs were pretty tired and I was realizing that running 10 miles on the beach was not going to happen the next day! But my 4 mile run out there was really satisfying and I enjoyed every second of it- even dumping out 2 cups of sand from my shoes at the end! <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mqzxW7TFZf0/UEGr5Wdox1I/AAAAAAAAB70/IUDtRDHUYWo/s1600/august+2012+phone+026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mqzxW7TFZf0/UEGr5Wdox1I/AAAAAAAAB70/IUDtRDHUYWo/s400/august+2012+phone+026.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I really enjoyed running out there on the beach!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Not that I wouldn't have LOVED to do a long run out there, but the way the sand was slightly sloped was irritating my hamstring and honestly I didn't think my legs could handle running on sand for that long! So I needed a new plan, and while we were out and about that afternoon I saw a pathway called the <a href="http://funbeach.com/local-attractions/discovery-trail/">Discovery Trail</a> along the boardwalk downtown. I googled it (of course) and found out that it is an 8.5 mile paved trail that goes from Ilwaco to North Long Beach -perfect! There is even a <a href="http://beachtochowder.com/">half marathon</a> there on September 15th- I may need to add that to my calendar for next year because that path was amazing!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Da4E-WQmzj8/UEGtdcvuaCI/AAAAAAAAB8I/QdblozRIyrE/s1600/august+2012+phone+069.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Da4E-WQmzj8/UEGtdcvuaCI/AAAAAAAAB8I/QdblozRIyrE/s400/august+2012+phone+069.JPG" width="298" /></a></div>
So on Saturday morning I got up and headed out to the highway- I ran 1.5 miles along the side of the road into town to the trail head, then followed the Discovery Trail for 3.5 miles all the was to Seaview, then turned around and headed back. I stopped about 15 times to take photos and enjoy the views of the kite festival. I should also mention that I forgot to bring my handheld water bottle and any sort of energy gel with me so I was carrying a plastic water bottle and had brought a pack of Skittles along. Whatever, I was "roughing" it on this long run lol! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AtjXIlgqn5M/UEGtS7a49rI/AAAAAAAAB78/ERSiLmyH0Nw/s1600/august+2012+phone+066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AtjXIlgqn5M/UEGtS7a49rI/AAAAAAAAB78/ERSiLmyH0Nw/s400/august+2012+phone+066.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JOqhGlCMTXs/UEGuU2WTt7I/AAAAAAAAB8Y/J2HodTj52m0/s1600/august+2012+phone+070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JOqhGlCMTXs/UEGuU2WTt7I/AAAAAAAAB8Y/J2HodTj52m0/s400/august+2012+phone+070.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I saw lots of bikers on the path, and several runners as well</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I did stop in the bathroom around mile 4 really quick, and there was a lady in there washing out a shirt in the sink. She looked at me and said "don't ask. I dropped my shirt in the honeybucket outside and it's my marathon shirt so I had to save it". The water was REALLY really blue and I looked at the shirt and it was a half fanatic shirt! So I asked her if that was what it was and she said yes and we chatted for a little while -turns out she is from Bremerton and we had done a few of the same races. I don't know if I could have fished a shirt out of a honeybucket, no matter how "clean" it was, rinsed it out and then finished running 2 more miles carrying it though. What would you have done?<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hOvvBMN37Bk/UEGt7GZEpYI/AAAAAAAAB8Q/N8VVQEE86F0/s1600/august+2012+phone+077.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="296" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hOvvBMN37Bk/UEGt7GZEpYI/AAAAAAAAB8Q/N8VVQEE86F0/s400/august+2012+phone+077.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A bronze sculpture of Captain William Clark and a 10 foot long sturgeon</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ls4Hv1yRHfs/UEGu1H49IoI/AAAAAAAAB8o/CeO1SDxdIno/s1600/august+2012+phone+076.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ls4Hv1yRHfs/UEGu1H49IoI/AAAAAAAAB8o/CeO1SDxdIno/s400/august+2012+phone+076.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A gray whale skeleton</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Overall, that 10 mile run was probably one of my favorite of all time. The scenery, the sounds, the smells, the weather and I got to eat skittles and not feel guilty about it. It was awesome. The only part I didn't like too much was how much my skirt slid down for the first mile, until I got sweaty enough for it to stick to me I guess. Maybe it is time for some new (smaller?) running skirts! Hint, hint...my birthday isn't too far away!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mlmMVVUmisc/UEGugvyaMNI/AAAAAAAAB8g/xgn4PGoUHB0/s1600/august+2012+phone+080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mlmMVVUmisc/UEGugvyaMNI/AAAAAAAAB8g/xgn4PGoUHB0/s400/august+2012+phone+080.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Those kites were so cool!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03085044548210730897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7300229258508059510.post-53504654283981903102012-08-21T14:23:00.000-07:002012-08-21T14:23:17.320-07:00I Spent $27 on Apples<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sm2PC8KW-l4/UDP7Z4Mz80I/AAAAAAAAB6g/j91oeuESMcs/s1600/apple.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sm2PC8KW-l4/UDP7Z4Mz80I/AAAAAAAAB6g/j91oeuESMcs/s320/apple.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Seriously, when did apples become so expensive? I went to Costco the other day for the necessary items I like to purchase there (peanut butter, chicken, cheese, salad, cucumbers, yogurt etc) and I grabbed a pack of 12 pink lady apples ($8.99!) and two of the containers of pre-packaged sliced fuji apples ($8.99 each, 8 packs in a container). I know it is probably not cost effective to buy the sliced ones but let's face it- it is easy and convenient, the kids love them and they pack nicely for work and it is way easier to dip a slice of apple into peanut butter than a whole apple. So there you have it, that is how you spend $27 on apples that will last only about a week (if I am lucky) in my house. Clearly I need an apple orchard in my backyard!<br />
<br />
One of the "skinny rules" is to eat apples and berries every single day, so I add these into my morning and afternoon snacks. I usually eat berries with my morning snack, in the form of Bob's "skinny shake" which is 8 oz nonfat Greek yogurt, 1 1/2 cups of berries and 12 oz of either water or almond milk. I have been using almond/coconut milk combined and it is soooo good. You should try it. And I like to use frozen berries so that my smoothie is nice and cold. This makes a HUGE smoothie and is really filling- since I run in the morning most often after breakfast this usually is my "recovery" drink. I tend to see apples and peanut butter as my indulgent treat in the afternoon. It cures my sweet tooth and I feel satisfied afterwards so that is what I am sticking with. Sometimes I sub cheese in instead of peanut butter, and that is a great combo as well- plus who doesn't love cheese??<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qwFHNYPvCvs/UDP7rmnHTuI/AAAAAAAAB6o/J44ledagBNU/s1600/august+2012+073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qwFHNYPvCvs/UDP7rmnHTuI/AAAAAAAAB6o/J44ledagBNU/s400/august+2012+073.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Buy this and enjoy! Sooo good</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I thought the hardest rule to follow would be "no carbs after lunch" and it actually was the one rule holding me back from starting it earlier. How can I live without carbs for half of the day?? Will I die and run out of energy when I go for a run? Well, the fact that I can have an apple in the early afternoon is helpful- it is not a complex carb so I think that is why it is allowed. And then I just started eating a nice serving of protein like chicken or steak with some veggies for dinner and I was completely satisfied. I am not someone who can eat salad every night so sometimes I cut up half a cucumber or a red pepper and just eat that with some protein. Or maybe some steamed green beans. But the fact that I have eaten GOOD HEALTHY carbs at breakfast and lunch tides me over and I go to bed a little bit hungry but not starving.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-diQUdBNUUUE/UDP8Bn0_t6I/AAAAAAAAB60/dSuOgC5Fork/s1600/august+2012+166.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-diQUdBNUUUE/UDP8Bn0_t6I/AAAAAAAAB60/dSuOgC5Fork/s400/august+2012+166.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dinner one night- deprived? I think not!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Here is the tricky part of that rule- I like to run in the morning. So when I wake up I am really hungry and basically have zero stored carbs to work with so I HAVE to eat some breakfast before working out, and then I have to let it digest for an hour or so. I am still trying to get used to this so my runs have been pushed back a little later in the morning than I prefer. But I am adjusting and now the "no carbs after lunch" rule seems like a no brainer and I do not even crave rice or pasta for dinner. Crazy right? Maybe, but I feel great and I weighed in on Saturday and I was down SEVEN POUNDS in just under 3 weeks! Say what? Guess the skinny rules are working, and I still haven't been counting calories!<br />
<br />
So, does anyone know where I can get a good deal on apples?!? Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03085044548210730897noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7300229258508059510.post-39599923384420962622012-08-19T15:44:00.002-07:002012-08-19T15:44:36.415-07:00Volunteering, Camping and Training for a 30K!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ksdeDhvgwlc/UDFpOzIiNgI/AAAAAAAAB48/sJp29G3kBuc/s1600/august+2012+052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ksdeDhvgwlc/UDFpOzIiNgI/AAAAAAAAB48/sJp29G3kBuc/s400/august+2012+052.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Gels! Apple! Vanilla!" pretty much what I shouted for an hour straight!</td></tr>
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I have definitely been keeping busy this summer and every weekend seems jam packed with activities from the time I wake up until the time I lay down again. Which is fine, I really do prefer to be busy rather than bored and I do save a day here and there where doing NOTHING is what I have planned. It balances out! I have been really wanting to volunteer for a race since last October when I tried volunteering for the Race for a Soldier and they actually had too many so I ended up running it instead (of course I did right?). So finally the timing worked out and I signed up to volunteer at a water station for the <a href="http://www.tacomanarrowshalf.com/">Tacoma Narrows Half</a> on August 4th. I tried to recruit a group of friends so we could just do the whole water station ourselves but it didn't work out this time. <a href="http://running2sanity.blogspot.com/">Jill</a> and one of her friends joined me though and we had a lot of fun!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L_Xu1Hwz3_4/UDFpQ7_rkAI/AAAAAAAAB5E/MRG0Zh9gNpQ/s1600/august+2012+053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L_Xu1Hwz3_4/UDFpQ7_rkAI/AAAAAAAAB5E/MRG0Zh9gNpQ/s400/august+2012+053.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jill, Rachel and me being cheesy!</td></tr>
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It was interesting to see the other side of a race- luckily us girls had lots of racing experience because we knew how to set up our station properly. It turns out that we were at a gel station so not only were we passing out water and electrolytes, but also energy gels for those that needed one. The three of us decided to pass out the gels -there were 4 flavors to choose from and I decided to pass out green apple and vanilla, Jill had kona punch and Rachel handed out chocolate. It was tricky actually. Shouting out the flavors, making sure the runner actually had hold of it before letting go, actually letting go. A couple of runners asked me to open it for them and then I felt pressured to open it quickly and efficiently. I take my volunteer duties seriously people! Overall it was a lot of fun, it was cool to see the lead runners as they went zooming by and I saw a few friends pass through as well. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k36eErGDRn8/UDFpIoGOsgI/AAAAAAAAB40/0ub1Os3N1c0/s1600/volunteer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k36eErGDRn8/UDFpIoGOsgI/AAAAAAAAB40/0ub1Os3N1c0/s400/volunteer.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready to pass out energy gels!</td></tr>
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I did learn that it is very important to be very clear about what you need as a runner- believe it or not I couldn't read peoples minds and really appreciated those that specifically said "apple" or "vanilla" or "anything with caffeine!" and I was seriously wondering about those people who had never even heard of an energy gel- say what?!? And 2 1/2 hours later, after the last runner came through we cleaned up our station and headed home around 9:45am. I will definitely be volunteering more often, and if you volunteer for a Tacoma City Marathon race they even have a reward program- I chose to take $30 off of my next race entry! Check it out <a href="http://www.tacomacitymarathonassociation.com/volunteer.html">HERE</a> if you would like to volunteer at an upcoming race!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7CgNaaM_1ic/UDFpXqimg_I/AAAAAAAAB5M/i3Bl6f4glTM/s1600/august+2012+088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7CgNaaM_1ic/UDFpXqimg_I/AAAAAAAAB5M/i3Bl6f4glTM/s400/august+2012+088.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fun around the campfire, a little college reunion 14 years later!</td></tr>
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Last weekend my family went camping over in Cle Elum with a group of friends from Central Washington University (where Will and I went to college). We spent two nights there and it was great to catch up with old friends and meet some of their spouses and children. We went to the lake one day and it was beautiful there but the wind was so strong the sand was stinging our skin and I was too cold to get in the water! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yALWuRJmBng/UDFpj3FcP4I/AAAAAAAAB5k/G1qBrO7mAnE/s1600/august+2012+117.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yALWuRJmBng/UDFpj3FcP4I/AAAAAAAAB5k/G1qBrO7mAnE/s400/august+2012+117.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Windy Lake Cle Elum. Jared, Scott, John, Mike, Will and me! <br />
Apperently we lined up tallest to shortest?</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K4aEFWF6PcE/UDFprjSyLwI/AAAAAAAAB5w/_r_IFmQATWQ/s1600/august+2012+132.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K4aEFWF6PcE/UDFprjSyLwI/AAAAAAAAB5w/_r_IFmQATWQ/s400/august+2012+132.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Roslyn Cafe. Claire, John, Jeremy, me, Mike, Scott, Jared and Will</td></tr>
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Will and I were able to go for a 5 mile trail run one morning- it was hilly but awesome. The sad part was that 2 days after we left a bunch of wildfires have started in the area and are destroying so much land and homes all the way to Ellensburg. I really hope the weather cooperates soon so that they can be contained.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nHyNDmEjDGw/UDFpZGtzU5I/AAAAAAAAB5U/iVep06ullQw/s1600/august+2012+102.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nHyNDmEjDGw/UDFpZGtzU5I/AAAAAAAAB5U/iVep06ullQw/s400/august+2012+102.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Out for a trail run in Cle Elum</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CIlSVLzMt6M/UDFpe1c_8sI/AAAAAAAAB5c/11Q56X0LBFE/s1600/august+2012+098.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CIlSVLzMt6M/UDFpe1c_8sI/AAAAAAAAB5c/11Q56X0LBFE/s400/august+2012+098.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful scenery!</td></tr>
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I am also realizing that I have a 30K trail run to train for 10 weeks from now! Yikes! Apparently it is closer to 21 miles than an actual 30K so I have been trying to figure out my training plan. I took a basic "finish it" marathon training plan and altered it a bit so that I am still running 3 days a week but eliminated all speed work because pace really isn't going to be an issue out on the trails. I am assuming it will take me about 4 hours to finish the race, but I will have a better idea once I get some longer trail runs in. Also, when I do the trail runs I am running with a time goal rather than a mile goal which seems to make more sense to me. I am trying to decide how long to make my "peak" training run. Usually for a marathon it is a 20 miler, so I am thinking for me I will do a 3 hour run in trails and maybe try to do that twice. Anybody have some helpful tips for trail race training? This will be the longest distance I have trained for besides my one marathon last year. And it is my first official trail race except for the mud runs. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bgj_VPCGqmk/UDFp9i3-W5I/AAAAAAAAB54/EPuIYSye6uo/s1600/august+2012+123.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bgj_VPCGqmk/UDFp9i3-W5I/AAAAAAAAB54/EPuIYSye6uo/s400/august+2012+123.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Niko having fun in the sand!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-39UNqTnBmUA/UDFqGCDBf1I/AAAAAAAAB6A/3oIyh2jCKqE/s1600/august+2012+142.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-39UNqTnBmUA/UDFqGCDBf1I/AAAAAAAAB6A/3oIyh2jCKqE/s400/august+2012+142.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Who kisses frogs when there are so many crayfish around??</td></tr>
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I am really excited to be running trails more often- it is such a different experience than hitting the pavement! In fact- I am heading out in about an hour to run down at the Point Defiance trails with a friend of mine. I have our route all mapped out, not that it matters because I will indefinitely get lost and end up taking a different route anyways! One of these days I will know those trails like the back of my hand. Meanwhile, I will just wander around until I end up back at my car!!Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03085044548210730897noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7300229258508059510.post-59207583107984992712012-08-14T12:12:00.000-07:002012-08-14T12:12:05.654-07:00The Skinny RulesI know, I know, I am a total sucker for trying out new "diets" or eating plans -just ask my hubby. He is a good sport about it though and just keeps his mouth closed every time I buy a new book and make a shopping list. Some that I have tried include the South Beach diet, the Flat Belly diet, the Jillian Michaels Body Revolution, simple calorie counting and probably several others I am forgetting. I do try to make sure I select sensible diets that are healthy but usually they end up being too complicated to maintain and eventually I get completely off track and start eating my old stand by diet (and too many treats). <br />
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It's not that I don't understand what is good for me- I realize that when I choose to eat french fries or some frozen yogurt that I am not making a "healthy" choice. So I am not really sure what my problem is but if I don't pay attention to my diet on a very regular basis (daily) I get off track and my weight very slowly goes up even though I run and workout constantly. I must have the slowest metabolism on the planet because I seriously don't think my diet is that bad- but it is what it is and the scale doesn't lie. <br />
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When I saw that Bob Harper (from The Biggest Loser) had a new book out called <u>The Skinny Rules- The simple, nonnegotiable principles for getting to THIN</u> I had to have it! You can take a look and buy a copy of it <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Skinny-Rules-Nonnegotiable-Principles/dp/0345533127/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1344968344&sr=8-1&keywords=the+skinny+rules">HERE</a>. I read through the book and really liked the whole concept but was too busy to actually put a lot of thought into it and implement the rules until after Ragnar was complete. Plus there were a couple of rules I was a bit worried about. Basically the idea is that there is a set of 20 rules that need to be followed rather than an actual "diet" so it actually allows quite a bit of flexibility in food choices rather than just specific recipes to follow. Much easier, once you get the hang of it!<br />
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So how do you get started on a new eating plan? Here are a few tricks that I have learned along the way to make your life easier:<br />
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1. Read the entire book, make notes and pick a "start date"- just make sure you give yourself time to go grocery shopping and clean out your kitchen and cupboards ahead of time<br />
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2. Go through the section of meal ideas and core recipes. Decide which foods/meals sound the best to you and pick 3 breakfasts, 3 morning snacks, 3 lunches, 3 afternoon snacks and 3 dinners that you want to eat on a rotating basis for the next 2-3 weeks and ideally have many of the same ingredients.<br />
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3. Write the meals down (including page number for reference) and hang it in your kitchen so that when you are hungry all you need to do is pick from your "menu".<br />
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4. Make a shopping list that includes all of the foods you need to make your core meals- and buy enough so that it lasts for at least a week. Organize your food, prep your fruits and veggies and prepare anything you can ahead of time. <br />
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5. Have a "water cup" of the day that you carry with you everywhere. I use my acrylic Starbucks to go cup and fill it with each meal so that I meet my water quota of the day.<br />
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6. Don't worry too much about calories for the first week or two. Bob would probably shoot me if I said that but if you are following the recipes and eating sensibly without overeating you will still lose weight (I have lost 4 pounds in 2 weeks and am not counting calories yet!). After you get used to eating this way you can focus on calories- I just don't see that it is that important in the very beginning.<br />
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So far I am really enjoying the skinny rules- they are simple and make a lot of sense. Plus one of the breakfast options is toast with peanut butter and a banana- hello runner-friendly foods! I could seriously eat that every morning and be happy. One rule I was pretty worried about is "no carbs after lunch" but it actually hasn't bothered me too much. I can still have an apple in the early afternoon and have been mostly eating a salad with chicken for dinner. So far it doesn't seem to be causing any problems with my energy during runs- but I haven't really done a "long" run so I will find that out soon enough.<br />
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Speaking of long runs- I am also not sure what to do with the rule that states "no more added sweeteners" and the one about "not drinking my calories". Hmmm- so between the no carbs after lunch and having to eliminate energy gels to fuel my running I think I may die once I really delve into my 30K training. Anyone else out there following this diet and an endurance athlete? Do you think it is ok to carb load and use energy gels when I do my weekend long runs which will be upwards of 2-3 hours long in the next couple of months? I have never officially "bonked" on a run and the idea of it scares me!! <br />
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Hope you are all enjoying our amazing weather this week- it is supposed to hit the 90's here which rarely happens so I think a trip to the lake might be necessary! <br />
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Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03085044548210730897noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7300229258508059510.post-27179035386693011942012-08-07T23:51:00.000-07:002012-08-07T23:51:49.712-07:00Ragnar Relay Northwest Passage- Part 3<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e3vL1zMtH90/UCIFwdJm1rI/AAAAAAAAB3o/s2qrd4qp_a8/s1600/Ragnar+2012+045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e3vL1zMtH90/UCIFwdJm1rI/AAAAAAAAB3o/s2qrd4qp_a8/s400/Ragnar+2012+045.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There goes Matt starting off van 2's last set of legs! </td></tr>
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If you are just tuning in to my long and drawn out story of our Ragnar adventure, you can catch up by reading part one <a href="http://www.musingsofarunnergirl.blogspot.com/2012/07/ragnar-relay-northwest-passage-part-1.html">HERE</a> and part two <a href="http://www.musingsofarunnergirl.blogspot.com/2012/08/ragnar-relay-northwest-passage-part-2.html">HERE</a>. When I left off we were waiting for Van 1 to arrive so we could begin our final set of legs. The sun was out but the air was still cool due to a light wind so it was really pleasant outside. Just after 11am on Saturday morning our runner arrived and Matt was off like a rocket- Amy and I tried to give him a "good game" swat as he passed but we only caught air and just looked at each other and laughed. Oh, did I mention that this is about the time delirium sets in? EVERYTHING is funny at this point in a relay -you are sleep deprived, sore, hungry and have been living on gummy bears and gatorade for over 24 hours!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9vcYbYULSZs/UCIB7t-wsjI/AAAAAAAAB1A/JFkO4XfrvkU/s1600/Ragnar+2012+047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9vcYbYULSZs/UCIB7t-wsjI/AAAAAAAAB1A/JFkO4XfrvkU/s400/Ragnar+2012+047.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wating to give Matt some water</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c0of9EXTOP8/UCIChwkM6wI/AAAAAAAAB1U/LSZH1-fgS6A/s1600/Ragnar+2012+051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c0of9EXTOP8/UCIChwkM6wI/AAAAAAAAB1U/LSZH1-fgS6A/s400/Ragnar+2012+051.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The water handoff</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a58WB-5qKK4/UCIEDU1ZoQI/AAAAAAAAB2k/_UKDtbfH_80/s1600/Ragnar+2012-+phone+186.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a58WB-5qKK4/UCIEDU1ZoQI/AAAAAAAAB2k/_UKDtbfH_80/s400/Ragnar+2012-+phone+186.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our "tunnel" friends</td></tr>
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We headed back to the van, piled in and went to chase down Matt and hand him some water down the road. At this point the scenery was amazingly beautiful- we drove along a winding road with views of the beach and the water. Stunning really. We stopped and I decided to offer gummy bears to passing runners while we waited. We did the tunnel so they could run under our stretched out arms. Matt finished in record time and then Paul was off on his final stretch which was a 'no van support' leg due to heavy traffic on a busy and narrow road. We honked and cheered (and maybe illegally stopped to fetch his shirt) when we passed him and headed to the next exchange.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8wBhKBldwh0/UCIERV9X_jI/AAAAAAAAB2w/5-5aa9FSbZY/s1600/Ragnar+2012-+phone+187.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="260" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8wBhKBldwh0/UCIERV9X_jI/AAAAAAAAB2w/5-5aa9FSbZY/s400/Ragnar+2012-+phone+187.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Exchange 31, Paul ready and waiting for Matt to arrive</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fyQxKtbyzPg/UCICoxwcEjI/AAAAAAAAB1c/DGPh3lvYqwE/s1600/Ragnar+2012+054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fyQxKtbyzPg/UCICoxwcEjI/AAAAAAAAB1c/DGPh3lvYqwE/s400/Ragnar+2012+054.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A water station on Paul's 'no van support' leg </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3ryFEQG6ADk/UCIEcqQkk7I/AAAAAAAAB24/18DAthuB4YM/s1600/Ragnar+2012-+phone+191.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3ryFEQG6ADk/UCIEcqQkk7I/AAAAAAAAB24/18DAthuB4YM/s400/Ragnar+2012-+phone+191.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paul and Steve exchanging the bracelet</td></tr>
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Paul came flying in and Steve was ready to take on his last run. I was kind of jealous of all of the team members that were finished already- and I still had such a long time to wait! We cheered Steve on and made sure he didn't need anything and then headed to the next exchange area to wait. He had a pretty significant hill to climb up and down but did such a great job! We were right on a beach at that point so we took some photos and stretched our legs. This section of the race really has some great views, we missed this last year being in van 1!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j1yB6NXhUMc/UCIEl90BOPI/AAAAAAAAB3A/5SqU_P0sFqE/s1600/Ragnar+2012-+phone+197.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="287" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j1yB6NXhUMc/UCIEl90BOPI/AAAAAAAAB3A/5SqU_P0sFqE/s400/Ragnar+2012-+phone+197.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Matt taking a stroll onto the beach- it was really windy!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cehpfCp165M/UCIEyunPFPI/AAAAAAAAB3I/b1JZ7K7fgow/s1600/Ragnar+2012-+phone+202.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cehpfCp165M/UCIEyunPFPI/AAAAAAAAB3I/b1JZ7K7fgow/s400/Ragnar+2012-+phone+202.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And there goes Amy!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r77FKzWpQHk/UCIE8Uuh4GI/AAAAAAAAB3Q/ddKE-CG_1o8/s1600/Ragnar+2012-+phone+207.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r77FKzWpQHk/UCIE8Uuh4GI/AAAAAAAAB3Q/ddKE-CG_1o8/s400/Ragnar+2012-+phone+207.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She made it to the top!!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3Xb1wqwhNYI/UCIFCZJ-IcI/AAAAAAAAB3Y/9IGxui1YP6w/s1600/Ragnar+2012-+phone+209.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3Xb1wqwhNYI/UCIFCZJ-IcI/AAAAAAAAB3Y/9IGxui1YP6w/s400/Ragnar+2012-+phone+209.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hydration is key</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Amy was ready to tackle her final 5.8 miles and had several big hills to climb as well. We waited for her at the top of the biggest one to cheer her on and get her some water- she was just cruising right along and looked great! We headed to the next exchange where it would be Will's last run- he only had 3.8 miles to run- and then it would be my turn! I was starting to get nervous and anxious- luckily my body felt pretty good even though I already had 20 miles in my legs. <br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Hvq0-Qm0cpc/UCICwNiNCpI/AAAAAAAAB1k/CqrsVEeBPK0/s1600/Ragnar+2012+055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Hvq0-Qm0cpc/UCICwNiNCpI/AAAAAAAAB1k/CqrsVEeBPK0/s400/Ragnar+2012+055.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Parking lot full of crazy vans and runners!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hsHq0TxqngA/UCIC0Uhb20I/AAAAAAAAB1s/VhQvrbWIO0c/s1600/Ragnar+2012+057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hsHq0TxqngA/UCIC0Uhb20I/AAAAAAAAB1s/VhQvrbWIO0c/s400/Ragnar+2012+057.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Will is ready and Amy is DONE!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5V7LytynWhI/UCIDISyO58I/AAAAAAAAB14/i3mu1HQTmBA/s1600/Ragnar+2012+062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5V7LytynWhI/UCIDISyO58I/AAAAAAAAB14/i3mu1HQTmBA/s400/Ragnar+2012+062.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Will is focused and ready to pass me the bracelet one last time!</td></tr>
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Will was carrying water so we didn't stop for him- just honked and cheered when we passed and headed to the last exchange so I could be ready when he arrived. I was going to carry my water as well -I wanted them to have plenty of time to park, meet up with van 1 and be ready when I arrived so we could cross the finish line together. It was pretty warm at that point and I believe it was around 4:20pm when Will slapped the bracelet on me for the last time and I was off! <br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-spmvEjy237U/UCII4X7bBsI/AAAAAAAAB4M/jJUDICzvbS4/s1600/Ragnar+2012+059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-spmvEjy237U/UCII4X7bBsI/AAAAAAAAB4M/jJUDICzvbS4/s400/Ragnar+2012+059.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I am ready!!!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w04gItsPZLs/UCIDUlB5T1I/AAAAAAAAB2A/lx-dKNnLuiA/s1600/Ragnar+2012+064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w04gItsPZLs/UCIDUlB5T1I/AAAAAAAAB2A/lx-dKNnLuiA/s400/Ragnar+2012+064.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Off I go for 4.7 miles of fun!</td></tr>
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I really wanted to finish strong- my first mile ticked off at 8:55 and I was pretty pleased! Then there it was- the one mile long hill of death! In one mile we climbed 350 feet- not sure if that is a lot or not, but it felt significant to me! Seriously, I tried my very best to run the whole way up that dang thing and I only walked twice to catch my breath but then my Garmin beeped an 11:00 mile. Ugh. I did pass a couple of people on it though- and one guy passed me, but even he took one walk break! Once I reached the top I could not find any speed though, and there were plenty more rolling hills to keep it fun! I held a 10 minute pace the last couple of miles and just tried to focus on the beautiful scenery and the fact that my entire team was waiting for me to arrive so we could celebrate.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PlSRv_GbxM0/UCIJ1if5OcI/AAAAAAAAB4U/UsmDs5VlfDg/s1600/photo+%2528189%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="268" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PlSRv_GbxM0/UCIJ1if5OcI/AAAAAAAAB4U/UsmDs5VlfDg/s400/photo+%2528189%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love this photo- I think I need to buy it!!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HGea0UNhLzc/UCIDdev1JHI/AAAAAAAAB2M/2Kbfda3bgGY/s1600/Ragnar+2012+067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HGea0UNhLzc/UCIDdev1JHI/AAAAAAAAB2M/2Kbfda3bgGY/s400/Ragnar+2012+067.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DONE!</td></tr>
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It was so cool to approach the finish line and see my team there- I threw up my arms as I passed them and they followed me in across the finish line and we were DONE!! I ran 4.7 'moderate' (my ass!) miles in 47 minutes. Maybe it was the lack of sleep and the previous 20 miles that made that leg so hard -but to me it was a bit challenging! We got our medals and had a group photo taken then headed straight to the beer garden with our free cold cheese pizza! I think that was the best, most coldest beer ever. I was so exhausted I didn't even take a group photo in the beer garden, but we sat and told funny stories and relaxed for a while.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FeMSAnVQiro/UCIFKyz8r6I/AAAAAAAAB3g/O-BVss63bgA/s1600/Ragnar+2012-+phone+211.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FeMSAnVQiro/UCIFKyz8r6I/AAAAAAAAB3g/O-BVss63bgA/s400/Ragnar+2012-+phone+211.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our group shot upside down- for the life of me I cannot get it to flip around. It seems fitting though LOL!! I think we all felt a bit upside down.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After a bit we said our good bye to Steve- he headed home so he could run the Warrior Dash the next day (crazy eh? that is a half fanatic for you!). Then we said good bye to the ladies of van 1 and headed to get in line for the ferry. Which took about an hour, not great but it could have been worse. Matt had never been on a ferry so it was fun to enjoy it with him. <br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ASa-e-1WpCE/UCIDhQC_-jI/AAAAAAAAB2U/BT6PdoMUnhA/s1600/Ragnar+2012+068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ASa-e-1WpCE/UCIDhQC_-jI/AAAAAAAAB2U/BT6PdoMUnhA/s400/Ragnar+2012+068.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In case you were wondering what tired looked like!! Waiting in line for the ferry</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bjfY5qKSeq8/UCIDstlf4EI/AAAAAAAAB2c/qLQyTqHzDRg/s1600/Ragnar+2012+073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bjfY5qKSeq8/UCIDstlf4EI/AAAAAAAAB2c/qLQyTqHzDRg/s400/Ragnar+2012+073.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our awesome ferry ride- the view was great!</td></tr>
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We were all ready for a nice hot meal, a shower and a bed!! We headed straight to the nearest pub and had some food and more beer, then checked into our hotel- we must have been quite a sight around Muckilteo!! I found a hotel suite that would sleep all 5 of us and had a kitchen, 2 bathrooms and a free breakfast and it was perfect! It was fun being able to stay together as a group after the race and chat. We had a really great group in our van this year- after all the stress of being a captain and finding runners it all worked out! And it was fun!<br />
<br />
Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03085044548210730897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7300229258508059510.post-26586616808909600422012-08-01T00:30:00.000-07:002012-08-01T00:30:02.085-07:00Ragnar Relay Northwest Passage- Part 2<br />
You can catch up on part 1 of our Ragnar adventure <a href="http://www.musingsofarunnergirl.blogspot.com/2012/07/ragnar-relay-northwest-passage-part-1.html">HERE</a> <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tRguKsiFyYM/UBjUZynvzxI/AAAAAAAAByU/TEXPvpYkKqo/s1600/Ragnar+2012-+phone+171.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tRguKsiFyYM/UBjUZynvzxI/AAAAAAAAByU/TEXPvpYkKqo/s400/Ragnar+2012-+phone+171.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What Ragnar looks like at night!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eSMa4U8FkhQ/UBjU-548wII/AAAAAAAABzQ/ZMehTfTOiBU/s1600/Ragnar+2012+028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eSMa4U8FkhQ/UBjU-548wII/AAAAAAAABzQ/ZMehTfTOiBU/s400/Ragnar+2012+028.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It also looks a little like this!</td></tr>
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So our van was getting ready to start running again and it was 12:30am. We were wandering around in the crowded parking lot at the high school and pretty soon Matt was handed the bracelet and off he went. At this point I needed to get a few team shirts swapped around- long story short 5 of our shirts were not finished before we left Tacoma so 2 of my AMAZING friends volunteered to drive to Bremerton and get them, then drive them to Burlington Friday night and drop them off for our team. Thank you thank you thank you Tiana and Bill, you are THE BEST. Seriously. You guys rock. So we got the last 5 shirts to the correct team members and headed off to catch up to Matt and give him some water. <br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4xMW4YOwcvU/UBjUdWC_J8I/AAAAAAAAByc/PtYTAL35lcI/s1600/Ragnar+2012-+phone+172.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4xMW4YOwcvU/UBjUdWC_J8I/AAAAAAAAByc/PtYTAL35lcI/s400/Ragnar+2012-+phone+172.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Matt I think?</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WeZSPIa_y2c/UBjVFud8GoI/AAAAAAAABzY/r-TofYWA2JM/s1600/Ragnar+2012+030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WeZSPIa_y2c/UBjVFud8GoI/AAAAAAAABzY/r-TofYWA2JM/s400/Ragnar+2012+030.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jill found me while we were chatting with van 1!</td></tr>
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I must have been resting for the next couple of exchanges- I really don't remember too much and there aren't many pictures. I do remember that when we passed Paul his tail light was not blinking so we pulled over right away and jogged to meet him and fix it so we didn't get penalized and he didn't get run over. Apparently it had fallen on the ground and broke apart and stopped working so we gave him a new one and then he was all blinky and safe so we hopped back in the van. Paul finished his 7.7 mile run in the middle of the night and passed off to Amy.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VVN1Z8Jh3J4/UBjVKcwsDdI/AAAAAAAABzg/RiAUsaaP6PU/s1600/Ragnar+2012+031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VVN1Z8Jh3J4/UBjVKcwsDdI/AAAAAAAABzg/RiAUsaaP6PU/s400/Ragnar+2012+031.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paul ready for his run</td></tr>
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<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CQT3d8v0LTc/UBjUg_B8ELI/AAAAAAAAByk/9dm1RtpfL6w/s1600/Ragnar+2012-+phone+174.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CQT3d8v0LTc/UBjUg_B8ELI/AAAAAAAAByk/9dm1RtpfL6w/s400/Ragnar+2012-+phone+174.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I believe this is Steve!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ogvwLZo2mc0/UBjU7HFQc9I/AAAAAAAABzI/LaFV0P0jSXE/s1600/Ragnar+2012+027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ogvwLZo2mc0/UBjU7HFQc9I/AAAAAAAABzI/LaFV0P0jSXE/s400/Ragnar+2012+027.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Staying hydrated!</td></tr>
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Amy had a short leg and was done quickly then it was Steve's turn. Then Steve passed off to Will who was lucky enough to run over Deception Pass! It was very early morning (around 4 or 4:30am) so it was getting a bit lighter and there was some fog but it was beautiful. We stopped to take some photos, and as we drove over the bridge I was actually a bit relieved it wasn't me- I am a little afraid of heights and that pathway was narrow!! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q1jKIwxP1qY/UBjUkZr1t-I/AAAAAAAABys/4rVjs9mo9QU/s1600/Ragnar+2012-+phone+177.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q1jKIwxP1qY/UBjUkZr1t-I/AAAAAAAABys/4rVjs9mo9QU/s400/Ragnar+2012-+phone+177.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deception Pass- so beautiful!!</td></tr>
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I had slowly been getting myself geared up for my run- I think I even changed my entire outfit in the front seat of the van. It was still kind of dark out so probably nobody saw me but I didn't want to go change in a honey bucket in the dark!! So my second run was 8.9 miles of rolling hills, with the first 5 being non support -meaning the van cannot stop and offer me water or anything. I was wearing all of my fancy reflective gear and had been up for nearly 24 hours straight at that point. Good thing adrenaline exists- that is what kept me going for sure! <br />
<br />
I was carrying my handheld water bottle and I adjusted the headlamp so that it felt pretty tight on my head when I jumped up and down. It would have been helpful to do a test run with one before the race- last year I had a horrible headache so I carried a flashlight on my night run because putting something around my head sounded terrible. I was pretty content snuggling with Amy in her leopard print snuggie when they announced our team was heading into the exchange but I reluctantly stepped into the chute and then I was off and running when Will slapped the bracelet onto my wrist.<br />
<br />
Approximately 2 minutes later the headlamp started slipping down my face and nothing I did made it stick. Jill and her team drove past me and she yelled out the window at me which was cool! This is how it went- step, step, step, push up on headlamp, step, step, step, push up on headlamp. I was losing my mind. I stopped 3 times to tighten the headlamp, and since I was carrying my water it was literally a complete stop so I could use both hands. The second time, as an added bonus, the tail light also popped off and fell on the ground in a bunch of pieces. Swell. <br />
<br />
At 6:04am I finally grabbed my phone out of my pocket and decided to send an SOS text. Except I can't text and run apparently so I just phoned Will and asked him to please give me my purple headband at the very first possible chance- I was at mile 2.25 at that point and they could not stop until 5 miles but that was better than nothing. I thought about little else while I was running other than that stupid headlamp and how I really wanted to throw it into the trees. Then all of a sudden I saw our van up ahead and I knew relief was near! As I approached it was like my pit crew was there- I threw the headband on and put the headlamp over the top while Amy added glide to my underarm area (I had some chaffing from my previous run) and then I was off again. <br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GT5jgQ1KDUI/UBjVPN8AAnI/AAAAAAAABzo/uIImrgeoHAM/s1600/Ragnar+2012+034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GT5jgQ1KDUI/UBjVPN8AAnI/AAAAAAAABzo/uIImrgeoHAM/s400/Ragnar+2012+034.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amy gliding my arm while I fix my headlamp!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uXbyt7oMSK0/UBjVWdFWrXI/AAAAAAAABz0/u990wo_sWpk/s1600/Ragnar+2012+035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uXbyt7oMSK0/UBjVWdFWrXI/AAAAAAAABz0/u990wo_sWpk/s400/Ragnar+2012+035.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"this better work"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZyXJ9zQMJyU/UBjVbsKO4YI/AAAAAAAABz8/vxa3VG8SrH4/s1600/Ragnar+2012+036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZyXJ9zQMJyU/UBjVbsKO4YI/AAAAAAAABz8/vxa3VG8SrH4/s400/Ragnar+2012+036.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Now that is team mate love!! Thanks guys!</td></tr>
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It worked though, and that headlamp did not budge for my final 4 miles! The van stopped for me a couple of miles later and I tossed them my water bottle and told them to meet me at the exchange. I think we were all so so tired that I just wanted to be done so we could all go rest. I did my best to pick up my pace and finish strong but those hills were never ending and my legs were spent. After I came into the exchange Will just laughed at me and said he needed a picture -gee thanks babe! I was quite the sight- but it was just after 7am and we were officially on break again for a few hours. I ran 8.9 "very hard" miles in an hour and thirty minutes- not my goal pace but considering I probably lost several minutes on the headlamp issue I will take it. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5ctWCF8BfNk/UBjVkN5RBaI/AAAAAAAAB0I/9TBKpQr90cM/s1600/Ragnar+2012+038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5ctWCF8BfNk/UBjVkN5RBaI/AAAAAAAAB0I/9TBKpQr90cM/s400/Ragnar+2012+038.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Done!!!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0EtqQjG54Hs/UBjVmuow2NI/AAAAAAAAB0Q/qTvKFF0pPVc/s1600/Ragnar+2012+039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0EtqQjG54Hs/UBjVmuow2NI/AAAAAAAAB0Q/qTvKFF0pPVc/s400/Ragnar+2012+039.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh yes, I earned all of that hottness lol!! What a mess I was!</td></tr>
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We drove to the next exchange, parked the van in the first spot we came to and then we all proceeded to pass out for the next 2 hours. Will went to use the bathroom and clean up a bit and he asked if anyone wanted to go with him. Apparently Steve said he would like to -but it just sounded "so far away" LOL. I remember nothing- I fell asleep in about 2 seconds in the front seat of the van and woke up an hour and a half later because I needed to use the bathroom. I got out and started wandering around the parking lot and suddenly Jill was there again! I told her I was so tired I felt drunk. I seriously felt like I was sooo drunk it was strange. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WPSSbLGAMnk/UBjUq0X49eI/AAAAAAAABy0/gPB__kRtjdI/s1600/Ragnar+2012-+phone+178.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WPSSbLGAMnk/UBjUq0X49eI/AAAAAAAABy0/gPB__kRtjdI/s400/Ragnar+2012-+phone+178.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The exchange area</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ln25s9Ikt-g/UBjUuUTVBaI/AAAAAAAABy8/uX55ANn3I-k/s1600/Ragnar+2012-+phone+179.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ln25s9Ikt-g/UBjUuUTVBaI/AAAAAAAABy8/uX55ANn3I-k/s400/Ragnar+2012-+phone+179.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mr. Speedy chilling out in the grass</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LjB4cfnuJpE/UBjV3JH4ViI/AAAAAAAAB0k/U_FKldeFVZk/s1600/Ragnar+2012+044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LjB4cfnuJpE/UBjV3JH4ViI/AAAAAAAAB0k/U_FKldeFVZk/s400/Ragnar+2012+044.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steve and Paul relaxing a bit</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Eventually the whole van was up and about, eating some breakfast and cleaning up. There were real bathrooms and a hot breakfast available at the High School so I went in and did the Shower Pill thing again, this time just putting my next running outfit on- I wasn't sure I would have the energy to change again later! The sun was out finally so it felt good to be outside, and we just waited around for van 1 to arrive so we could finish the race off!</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5QZW6_Oz7oc/UBjVvDH7qXI/AAAAAAAAB0Y/RjbAm5aNNuA/s1600/Ragnar+2012+043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5QZW6_Oz7oc/UBjVvDH7qXI/AAAAAAAAB0Y/RjbAm5aNNuA/s400/Ragnar+2012+043.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Do you want to run a relay race? It will be fun!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03085044548210730897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7300229258508059510.post-45542886595020773612012-07-29T21:59:00.001-07:002012-07-29T21:59:55.955-07:00Ragnar Relay Northwest Passage -Part 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tX1XMHxl9H8/UBYJQiKoYJI/AAAAAAAABvE/BVhKo4T-TPc/s1600/Ragnar+2012-+phone+164.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tX1XMHxl9H8/UBYJQiKoYJI/AAAAAAAABvE/BVhKo4T-TPc/s400/Ragnar+2012-+phone+164.JPG" width="298" /></a></div>
After a little slumber party on Thursday night, complete with thunder and lightning and pouring rain of course, van 2 was ready to head up to Bellingham to begin our Ragnar adventure! Amy had come up from the Portland area and Matt had flown in from Utah so they stayed the night at our house and Paul headed over from Gig Harbor and by 8am we were ready to hit the road. I had done a bit of decorating the night before but luckily not too much- most of it washed off in the rain. <br />
<br />We soon discovered one of the unique things about our van- the window wipers didn't work!! So we drove for 3 hours on the freeway in the pouring rain without them- no big deal! Just a quick note about the van- I spent countless hours trying to find one to rent without success so I ended up "renting" one from a friend of a friend who owns a daycare. The passenger window doesn't roll down, there was about 1.5 boxes worth of cheerios inside when we got it (yes, we cleaned it first), the battery died once (while I was running!)- but otherwise it was perfect! And it was WAY better than not having a van.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tMlgcmXVo2E/UBYJVSwKS7I/AAAAAAAABvM/nOAkVT0D720/s1600/Ragnar+2012-+phone+142.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tMlgcmXVo2E/UBYJVSwKS7I/AAAAAAAABvM/nOAkVT0D720/s400/Ragnar+2012-+phone+142.PNG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Van 1 at the starting line! Jody, Cory, Sarah, Pauline, Dawn and Mary Beth. </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZIrwA-bsacA/UBYJZsy7odI/AAAAAAAABvU/4QJdnrX1Xv0/s1600/Ragnar+2012-+phone+148.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZIrwA-bsacA/UBYJZsy7odI/AAAAAAAABvU/4QJdnrX1Xv0/s400/Ragnar+2012-+phone+148.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Van 2 in Bellingham! Steve, Will, Matt, Paul, Amy, me.</td></tr>
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We made it to Bellingham in record time and met up with our final runner Steve who lived about 20 minutes away. Our team was complete so we attended our safety meeting and headed back to our van for a bit. The rain had finally quit and I was hopeful that it was done so we (I) decorated the van again- there were several other teams doing the same thing. Including NuuNKOTB- they were parked right by us and they gave us samples and tattoos from <a href="http://www.nuun.com/">Nuun</a> in exchange for some of our chalk markers! Sweet deal!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P4N5fY99oqE/UBYJeQsX7cI/AAAAAAAABvc/bHmeNep-rE8/s1600/Ragnar+2012-+phone+147.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P4N5fY99oqE/UBYJeQsX7cI/AAAAAAAABvc/bHmeNep-rE8/s400/Ragnar+2012-+phone+147.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our super groovy van</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VrgTKvEEioA/UBYLGbiHHDI/AAAAAAAABwY/lAf41KD3UFw/s1600/Ragnar+2012-+phone+145.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VrgTKvEEioA/UBYLGbiHHDI/AAAAAAAABwY/lAf41KD3UFw/s400/Ragnar+2012-+phone+145.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy Days! Get it? It will be fun.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Finally we got word that runner 6 was out and it would soon be time for van 2 to get our feet moving. Van 1 had started at 8am in Blaine and they arrived into Bellingham around 2pm or so, and just like that Matt was off and running! He was super speedy too- "there is just so much AIR here" and finished his 6.5 miles in no time. Next up was Paul, then Steve, then Amy, then Will and finally ME!! Runner 12 was a position for a very patient person that can run pretty far. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QUvo900kyG8/UBYKD6og75I/AAAAAAAABvk/s5ytCl5XOR0/s1600/Ragnar+2012-+phone+154.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QUvo900kyG8/UBYKD6og75I/AAAAAAAABvk/s5ytCl5XOR0/s400/Ragnar+2012-+phone+154.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's official- van 2 is running!!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S4OIsrYMfwI/UBYOtlQP0iI/AAAAAAAABxA/XJeCI--r5YY/s1600/Ragnar+2012+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S4OIsrYMfwI/UBYOtlQP0iI/AAAAAAAABxA/XJeCI--r5YY/s400/Ragnar+2012+002.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steve rocking his leg!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R8MEQa_O7IQ/UBYKhiX8NFI/AAAAAAAABv4/1-6PZn8x5a4/s1600/Ragnar+2012-+phone+161.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R8MEQa_O7IQ/UBYKhiX8NFI/AAAAAAAABv4/1-6PZn8x5a4/s400/Ragnar+2012-+phone+161.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amy's turn! </td></tr>
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It was tricky to make sure I kept my body fueled to run at 6pm- especially since I would be running 10.8 miles!! I ate a cliff bar around 4:30 and also a banana at some point. I was planning to carry my own water and just get a refill if needed from the van but Matt convinced me that they would stop and support me since I was running so far and I finally agreed. Not carrying something for 11 miles sounded pretty good. Will came into the exchange and off I went- even listening to some music which I never did last year. And just as promised our van stopped every 2 miles and handed me water and took my empty Gu packets and cheered me on. They were THE BEST! It made those miles fly by knowing that in just 2 more miles they would be there, and then just 2 more miles- it was awesome!!!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4pjdLG1FTPE/UBYPaGDEJyI/AAAAAAAABxI/_0muUWsZOvw/s1600/Ragnar+2012+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4pjdLG1FTPE/UBYPaGDEJyI/AAAAAAAABxI/_0muUWsZOvw/s400/Ragnar+2012+007.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There I go!</td></tr>
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At the 8 mile mark I told them I was fine until the finish -they didn't need to stop again. I caught up to this guy wearing Luna sandals and chatted with him a bit. Then all of a sudden there it was- the sign "one mile to go" and I was on a mission to finish, knowing that my van was eager to take a break once I arrived. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KAJNFr_sl60/UBYPntizEUI/AAAAAAAABxQ/UOHc1FUj7E8/s1600/Ragnar+2012+018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KAJNFr_sl60/UBYPntizEUI/AAAAAAAABxQ/UOHc1FUj7E8/s400/Ragnar+2012+018.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sarah looks really excited for my arrival! Her expression cracks me up.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DX9Q6a06vIo/UBYPsofy9-I/AAAAAAAABxY/sx7BB1OgLjU/s1600/Ragnar+2012+020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DX9Q6a06vIo/UBYPsofy9-I/AAAAAAAABxY/sx7BB1OgLjU/s400/Ragnar+2012+020.JPG" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That was pure joy -ready to pass off that sweaty bracelet!</td></tr>
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Sarah was waiting for me at the exchange and I passed her the bracelet and I was done! 10.8 miles in just under an hour and forty minutes- my average pace was 9:13 which was pretty good considering I stopped to drink water 4 times and got held up at a few lights. I also found out that the battery on the van had been dead after I started running and they quickly got a jump from another van and I never even knew the difference! <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rLMOE5Cskpg/UBYP2dLalDI/AAAAAAAABxk/TXLJU-T96Iw/s1600/Ragnar+2012+021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rLMOE5Cskpg/UBYP2dLalDI/AAAAAAAABxk/TXLJU-T96Iw/s400/Ragnar+2012+021.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I survived!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After I collected myself our van headed to get some form of real food which ended up being a sandwich from Quizno's since most of the van was tired. I was not one of them since I had just run so far- I was amped up still! But food didn't sound good to me so I was perfectly fine with that choice! Then we drove straight to La Conner High School which was the next major exchange and had the chance to clean up and get some rest. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I98Hny4BmZQ/UBYQGISjknI/AAAAAAAABxs/P2jTu7giKbo/s1600/Ragnar+2012+025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I98Hny4BmZQ/UBYQGISjknI/AAAAAAAABxs/P2jTu7giKbo/s400/Ragnar+2012+025.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
My priority was taking a "shower" with the <a href="http://showerpill.com/">shower pill</a> since I was feeling really gross and sweaty. Those wipes are amazing- I felt 100% better afterwards so I ate my sandwich and then Will and I decided to take a nap in the gym. Worst nap ever by the way, I did not sleep a wink. There were people talking, slamming doors every 10 seconds and blowing up/deflating air beds the entire 2 1/2 hours we laid there. But we laid there and rested anyways until we got word that van 1 would be finishing up around 12:30am. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mLcjuigRHXE/UBYKzgTx-_I/AAAAAAAABwQ/4niNODeJP8I/s1600/Ragnar+2012-+phone+170.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mLcjuigRHXE/UBYKzgTx-_I/AAAAAAAABwQ/4niNODeJP8I/s400/Ragnar+2012-+phone+170.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Faking it. There was no real sleep.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K9LHCBf01W0/UBYQR1NQRlI/AAAAAAAABx0/N2-sjKhO-VM/s1600/Ragnar+2012+026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K9LHCBf01W0/UBYQR1NQRlI/AAAAAAAABx0/N2-sjKhO-VM/s400/Ragnar+2012+026.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What the heck? We parked next to this "toilet"- oh Honey Bucket where are you???</td></tr>
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I texted Matt who was sleeping out in the van and gave him a heads up so he could be prepared to start his second run. We packed up our beds and headed out into the night to get ready for the next part of our adventure!!<br />
<br />
Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03085044548210730897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7300229258508059510.post-1269829819209177242012-07-25T12:35:00.001-07:002012-07-25T12:35:02.729-07:00Do you want to run a relay race? It will be fun.I am working on my Ragnar Relay recap- it is definitely hard to find the words to describe such an awesome adventure. Meanwhile, enjoy this video that made us laugh every time we watched it!!<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/EL1hLU_LBvs?fs=1" width="480"></iframe>Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03085044548210730897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7300229258508059510.post-14344409407097455562012-07-18T00:19:00.002-07:002012-07-18T00:26:46.678-07:00Did Somebody Say More Cowbell?<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sgbpTY1rYOQ/UAZhB0cj2DI/AAAAAAAABt8/aCPOqwbP2yU/s1600/photo+(181).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="310" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sgbpTY1rYOQ/UAZhB0cj2DI/AAAAAAAABt8/aCPOqwbP2yU/s400/photo+(181).JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I think our team needs more cowbell!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Oh boy, I have been a terrible blogger lately. So much to do and so little time to type about it! I will catch up really quick while I have a moment though! <br />
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On June 30th my whole family and a group of friends ran the Down and Dirty mud run out on Fort Lewis. This was the third year for us and we had a great time just like always. It is a family friendly event and this time it was only 3.3 miles rather than 5 which was nice for the kids. We dressed up in the theme of the day as superhero's and all just stuck together and had a great time. I highly recommend this for a first time mud run -it is pretty tame compared to some out there these days. Niko ran the whole way and talked almost the entire time. At one point I was actually chasing him down -he found a burst of energy and was just tearing off down the trail! Fun times.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fruw2n37Aio/UAZhKZbUHjI/AAAAAAAABuM/WJC6ihwGesY/s1600/photo+%2528183%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="297" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fruw2n37Aio/UAZhKZbUHjI/AAAAAAAABuM/WJC6ihwGesY/s400/photo+%2528183%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The clan after the mud run! Such a fun time!!</td></tr>
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Then on July 7th we went to my cousin's wedding in Olympia. The ceremony was in the State Capital building and it was beautiful inside and the wedding was really nice. I am happy for my cousin, he seems very much in love with his new wife. I was able to see some family I had lost touch with over the years which was interesting. Yeah, I will leave it at that. Interesting. Ha!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just after saying "I do"</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xacvFJ1zKJc/UAZhIEl9MvI/AAAAAAAABuE/R9_1RGZtpSk/s1600/photo+%2528182%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xacvFJ1zKJc/UAZhIEl9MvI/AAAAAAAABuE/R9_1RGZtpSk/s400/photo+%2528182%2529.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Of course I had to get dressed up! Niko said I looked like a cave woman. <br />
How does he even know what that looks like??</td></tr>
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I have of course been keeping up on my running, doing my usual three days a week and averaging right around 20 miles each week. I have also been doing Jillian Michael's Body Revolution a bit more regularly. I am almost half way done with it and plan on finishing it up once Ragnar is complete. <br />
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Last week I was scheduled for an 8 mile run on Wednesday and since the kids were with me and I was scheduled to work in the afternoon I mentally prepared to hit the treadmill. I made it about 2 miles before I decided that I was going to just finish my run outside later after work so I got to 4 miles and called it quits. It was just so hot and sweaty and BORING. Usually I can handle the treadmill but lately I have been having a hard time with it.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wvPyfW2Ezco/UAZhWLZE0WI/AAAAAAAABuw/BilWLYTUyRA/s1600/photo+%2528187%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wvPyfW2Ezco/UAZhWLZE0WI/AAAAAAAABuw/BilWLYTUyRA/s400/photo+%2528187%2529.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ugh, even in just a sports bra and compression shorts it was just too <br />
hot, sweaty and boring on the treadmill.</td></tr>
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I texted my friend Seth and asked if he was up for a run around 9:30pm over the Narrows Bridge- and he actually said yes! I was pretty happy so after work I changed and ran to his house which is a little over a mile away and we set off over the bridge and back. We chatted and the weather was great. We actually passed a group of 5 or 6 runners wearing headlamps on the bridge and I figured they were training for Ragnar too, or maybe Hood to Coast. I dropped him off at home and then finished my run home. That was 7.5 miles so I did 11.5 miles in one day last week! That outside run was 1000 times better than my treadmill one though! Don't you just love friends who will run with you any time of the day?? Awesome. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-khY1qtyDbDI/UAZhao2YMyI/AAAAAAAABu4/T9oM9echHQQ/s1600/photo+%2528188%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-khY1qtyDbDI/UAZhao2YMyI/AAAAAAAABu4/T9oM9echHQQ/s400/photo+%2528188%2529.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seth and I on top of the bridge. So thankful for friends that will run with me at night!</td></tr>
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So, other than that stuff I have been busy preparing for the Ragnar Relay that is happening Friday. Actually I am the captain of our team this year and I do not know what I was thinking way back in MARCH when that sounded like an ok plan but it has been causing me an insane amount of stress the last couple of months. I have lost count of the runners who have said "I'm IN!" and then said "oh, sorry I am OUT" in practically the same breath. <br />
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How hard is it to get 12 runners to commit, pay, train and stay healthy several months in advance? REALLY HARD. But I finally got my 12 (just last week in fact) and I think we are ready to run. Oh, and about that. I have the farthest distance on our entire team at 24.4 miles. My first leg is 10.8 miles- that is a pretty significant run! Then I have 8.9 roller coaster miles at night for leg 2. Then I get to bring the team to the finish line with a final 4.7 miles. I am pretty excited about being the one that crosses the finish line, even though I was runner 6 last year and I swore I didn't want to be the last runner in our van this year because I hated waiting around all day to run! And here I am literally the last runner on our whole team- runner 12!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bring it on Ragnar!!! We are ready</td></tr>
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Our team is taking on a 60's retro theme this year and it has been fun creating shirts and finding outfits and decorations. I decorated some cowbells today and picked up some of the basics like glow sticks, window markers and nutter butters. Oh come on, you know you love those cookies! If you are on facebook and want to follow our team's progress and fun pictures you can go <a href="http://www.facebook.com/#!/MyVanOrYours">HERE</a> and "like" us. I am also tweeting away on twitter these days and you can follow me @runnergirltiff if you would like.<br />
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I will try and get one more "pre ragnar" post up about our team, but if I don't you will find all kinds of info on facebook and twitter. Anyone else out there running Ragnar? Any tips I need to know? Last year we were in Van 1, so I am excited to see the course from Van 2 this time. I can't wait!! I am especially looking forward to the beer at the finish line! <br />
<br />Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03085044548210730897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7300229258508059510.post-60681620839599522542012-07-10T13:26:00.001-07:002012-07-10T13:26:54.098-07:00Seattle RnR- The Events Edition<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Oh, you thought Seattle Rock and Roll was just a race? No, no, no- at least not if you do it right! This race is actually an excuse to get together with other runner friends as many times as possible over the course of 3 days to eat, drink, shop and talk about all things running! <br />
<br />My 'weekend' started when I picked <a href="http://rundreamlaugh.blogspot.com/">my long lost BRF Cynthia</a> (that's best runner friend fyi) up from the airport on Thursday evening around 5:15pm. We drove up to U Village to grab a bite to eat and check out the Lululemon store and do a bit of shopping. Our next stop was a local runner's house to attend the <a href="http://anothermotherrunner.com/">Another Mother Runner</a> House Party hosted by Dimity McDowell and Sarah Bowen Shea. They are the authors of the book <u>Run Like a Mother</u> which I purchased almost 2 years ago at the Iron Girl race in Seattle, and a brand new book- <u>Train Like a Mother</u> that they were promoting. I loved the first book- if you haven't read it I highly recommend it. These ladies are hilarious, honest, helpful, and it is just a perfect book to read as a mom that runs. You can buy your own copy <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1449409865/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=anotmothrunn-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1449409865">HERE</a>!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VpHDancfukM/T_yGMHvsc3I/AAAAAAAABs8/uhOUPEyTl78/s1600/photo+%2528172%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VpHDancfukM/T_yGMHvsc3I/AAAAAAAABs8/uhOUPEyTl78/s400/photo+%2528172%2529.JPG" width="331" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love all these things!</td></tr>
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Once we arrived at the house we quickly grabbed a glass of sangria and wandered around saying hi to everyone. There were many local bloggers and runners we knew and it was fun to get to know some of them in person. There were snacks and then we went outside to sit and listen while the authors read from their new book and did a TON of giveaways. They gave away a baby jogger stroller (no need for that in my house!!), moving comfort bra's, water bottles, nuun, insoles, socks, yurbuds, giftcards and tons of other stuff I am surely forgetting. I didn't win anything but one of the ladies gave me her water bottle when she had won two. One of the giveaways was to who had been to the track most recently- I had been Monday and she had been Tuesday so she got the bottle initially (super nice of her to share!).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uSRPHIaL3KI/T_yGOWZgJ4I/AAAAAAAABtE/qaakDsnBMWw/s1600/photo+%2528171%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uSRPHIaL3KI/T_yGOWZgJ4I/AAAAAAAABtE/qaakDsnBMWw/s400/photo+%2528171%2529.JPG" width="273" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I had never tried these socks, but now I need more because they are amazing! </td></tr>
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I bought a copy of the book and a cute purple tshirt that says "i run things" on it. You can get your very own right <a href="http://anothermotherrunner.com/store/tees/">HERE</a>. The authors both signed the book for me and we took a few photos. Actually, I didn't take any photos at the party (what is wrong with me??) but somebody was taking fancy photos with a nice camera so there are photos somewhere! We also got treat bags with sofsole socks, nuun, gu, coupons, samples and other fun stuff inside! Soon after that we called it a night and made the hour drive back to Tacoma to get some rest before the next busy day!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Expo time!</td></tr>
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Friday morning after I dropped the kids off Cynthia and I got ourselves completely packed with everything we may need in the next 36 hours. Which was tricky since the weather was all over the place and I still was not sure what all I would need for the race! So I packed everything I may possibly want to wear and we set off for the race expo at Century Link field in Seattle. I love race expos and the Rock and Roll series never disappoints! We arrived early so it wasn't too busy and within minutes we had our race bibs and goodie bags and were ready to shop!<br />
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At the Brooks "run happy cavalcade" there are a lot of fun activities and games to play. I actually won a free pair of Brooks shoes! I never win anything, and honestly was just hoping for a shirt since I thought that was the big prize lol. The girl scanned my card and then rang a cowbell and presented me with a card good for one free pair of Brooks shoes of my choice. I was sooo excited!! <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Winner!! </td></tr>
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After that we wandered around and shopped, collected samples and checked out all things running. Heaven. We bought some nuun (lemon tea and kona kola-yum!) from Zoe at the Nuun booth and got an awesome water bottle. I was a little sad to miss out on meeting up with some of the other bloggers at 3pm when Mel was doing a little chat on the stage, but we had to go to Bellevue to check into our hotel before the dinner that night. I tried (twice!) to register for next year's race since the discount is really good, but the computers were down both times and then I forgot to check one last time before we left. Dang it!<br />
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So we left the expo, headed to Bellevue Square for lunch at The Cheesecake Factory and a little shopping at Lululemon and Lucy, then checked into our hotel. We had about 15 minutes to get freshened up and changed, then head straight back to downtown Seattle for our Girls Night Out dinner hosted by Online Shoes and Brooks Running. It was pouring rain, and we had to be inside the parking garage by 6pm. We left our hotel right about 5pm thinking we would be fine, it was only about 15 minutes away (in theory, it was pouring rain on a Friday evening). We pulled into the garage at 6:02pm- whew! I was ready for a drink or two at that point though!! Not a fan of Seattle traffic.<br />
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I was lucky enough to be one of 15 bloggers to be invited to the Online Shoes Girls Night Out event on Friday night before the race. When we arrived there were place cards layed out and a wonderful goodie bag filled with fun things like a notebook, water bladder, reusable bags, samples, gu and the best thing EVER- the VIP potty pass so we could potty like rock stars at the race! We also had a special shirt they designed and a collapsable cooler from Online shoes. So generous and amazing!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rP0FHZx9jwQ/T_yF9JQoARI/AAAAAAAABsA/ztLYX2L1gqo/s1600/photo+%2528178%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rP0FHZx9jwQ/T_yF9JQoARI/AAAAAAAABsA/ztLYX2L1gqo/s400/photo+%2528178%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My friend Heather works for online shoes- she left me a little note at my place setting!</td></tr>
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We were fed dinner from Buca di Beppo with pasta, salad, bread and lasagna- it was perfect for carb loading! We got to meet Dyana from Brooks and she gave us some great information about Brooks and we watched a slideshow about the company. I really liked seeing the ad campaign and being able to see how Brooks really is all about running and running HAPPY! After the presentation Kira showed us all of the shoes and talked about them one by one. I am obsessed with running shoes and could have talked to her about them all day long- she was very knowledgable! We even got to pass around a shoe that isn't even on the market yet -the Pure Drift which will release in January!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brooks shoes- aren't they so pretty?</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-51bzpa72DMw/T_yMI91RV0I/AAAAAAAABtw/DDBqFhPvpJM/s1600/puredrift.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-51bzpa72DMw/T_yMI91RV0I/AAAAAAAABtw/DDBqFhPvpJM/s400/puredrift.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sneak peek of the Pure Drift to be released in January. It can alternate from zero to 4mm heel drop by adding/removing an insert. Very light, very flexible and very innovative! </td></tr>
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After the shoe demonstration we were told we could pick out not 1, but 2 free pairs of running shoes to take home! One from the traditional line, and one from the pure project line. Wow, I could not believe it! They had stacks of 5 different shoe styles in all of our sizes and I made a beeline straight for the Pure Flow in beautiful purple! I had been wanting to try that particular shoe for a while now but couldn't justify buying it. I instantly loved how it felt on my feet and didn't even try on the Pure Cadence, and I already own the Pure Connects. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_qRUjQBHbzo/T_yHK6ewBLI/AAAAAAAABtU/qbH49v7-uh8/s1600/onlineshoes2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_qRUjQBHbzo/T_yHK6ewBLI/AAAAAAAABtU/qbH49v7-uh8/s400/onlineshoes2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A wall of shoes! </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zmt3AYUOuD8/T_yLB2508uI/AAAAAAAABtg/Cm9aaUBDNaA/s1600/onlineshoes3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zmt3AYUOuD8/T_yLB2508uI/AAAAAAAABtg/Cm9aaUBDNaA/s400/onlineshoes3.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I like them! My own personal Pure Connects in white/blue and my new Pure Flows in purple!</td></tr>
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The difficult task for me was deciding on a more traditional style of shoe to pick. I have been wearing minimal shoes now (zero to 4mm drop) for almost 2 years and regular shoes kind of scare me. When I was wearing traditional shoes I also needed a knee brace- since I switched I have not had any problems whatsoever with my knee! I asked Kira several questions and tried all three pairs on- the Glycerin 10, Adrenaline 12 and the Ghost. I was not a fan of the Adrenaline's, they felt strange on my feet. I did like the Ghost but since more likely than not I will be just wearing them for walking or working out I went with the Glycerin 10. It was seriously the most comfortable shoe ever, like walking on marshmallows. But I am scared to run in a shoe that is just so much SHOE. For now I have been living in them for walking around and they are great!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o8WkAfVMl4o/T_yHHyuCevI/AAAAAAAABtM/ke8c7PZ8JpI/s1600/onlineshoes1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o8WkAfVMl4o/T_yHHyuCevI/AAAAAAAABtM/ke8c7PZ8JpI/s400/onlineshoes1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shoe twins!</td></tr>
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Soon our evening ended and we made the drive back to our hotel with all of our new loot, to settle in and try to sleep before the race in the morning (race recap <a href="http://www.musingsofarunnergirl.blogspot.com/2012/06/seattle-rock-and-roll-half-marathon.html">here</a>). And remember that pair of shoes I won at the expo?!? I think I will let my hubby pick out a pair of new shoes- I mean really, how many shoes can a girl own? Wait, don't answer that! It will be his reward for letting me have 3 days of fun without even griping about it. He rocks.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-le-QJZa3dbQ/T_yF4DI4C7I/AAAAAAAABrw/H-2gDX19gGc/s1600/photo+%2528180%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="305" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-le-QJZa3dbQ/T_yF4DI4C7I/AAAAAAAABrw/H-2gDX19gGc/s400/photo+%2528180%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Treats! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Thank you sooo much to <a href="http://www.onlineshoes.com/">Online Shoes</a> for hosting this event in your beautiful office and spoiling us so perfectly before our race. And a huge thank you to Brooks for sharing your business ideas, history and your amazing product with us. And thank you to <a href="http://www.tallmomontherun.com/">Mel</a> for organizing and getting the ball rolling so we could be spoiled the night before our race. If you would like to check out the awesome Brooks shoes we tried on and purchase a pair for yourself (which I highly recommend) here is the best way to do so:<br />
<br />
Brooks Shoes- <a href="http://www.onlineshoes.com/brooks-b_id2">here</a><br />
Brooks Pure Flow- <a href="http://www.onlineshoes.com/womens-brooks-pureflow-neon-purple-deep-blue-blk-p_id268118">here</a><br />
Brooks Pure Cadence- <a href="http://www.onlineshoes.com/womens-brooks-purecadence-scuba-blue-anthracite-grn-p_id243967">here</a><br />
Brooks Adrenaline 12- <a href="http://www.onlineshoes.com/womens-brooks-adrenaline-gts-12-acai-black-white-p_id268135">here</a><br />
Brooks Glycerin 10- <a href="http://www.onlineshoes.com/womens-brooks-glycerin-10-diva-pink-anthracite-slvr-p_id268125">here</a><br />
Brooks Ghost- <a href="http://www.onlineshoes.com/womens-brooks-ghost-4-dark-denim-blue-tint-slv-p_id224500">here</a> <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GNj4KU_JA8o/T_yGCylHFlI/AAAAAAAABsY/JOaNADngo2c/s1600/photo+%25287%2529.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GNj4KU_JA8o/T_yGCylHFlI/AAAAAAAABsY/JOaNADngo2c/s400/photo+%25287%2529.PNG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy bloggers and their new shoes!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Anyone else out there running happy in Brooks shoes? What do you wear and why do you love them? I have ran 3 times in my new Pure Flows (a hill run, an easy run and a 10 miler) and so far- LOVE them!!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0KNhBKm1tSM/T_yF7iLuNyI/AAAAAAAABr4/FW30yUjNr4c/s1600/photo+%2528179%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0KNhBKm1tSM/T_yF7iLuNyI/AAAAAAAABr4/FW30yUjNr4c/s400/photo+%2528179%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh, and I put that cooler to good use a couple of days ago!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03085044548210730897noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7300229258508059510.post-34240701472736065952012-06-29T23:58:00.000-07:002012-06-29T23:58:21.889-07:00Seattle Rock and Roll Half Marathon 2012 Recap<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ilf7cTKoRxk/T-6Z3SQUGaI/AAAAAAAABpE/DDI10R3lBr4/s1600/June+2012+iphone+095.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ilf7cTKoRxk/T-6Z3SQUGaI/AAAAAAAABpE/DDI10R3lBr4/s400/June+2012+iphone+095.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The gear</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Friday night Cynthia, Alyssa and myself finally settled down in our hotel room in Bellevue (yes Bellevue, don't ask) to try and get some rest before the big race early Saturday morning- 7am to be exact. We probably turned the lights off around 10:30 and none of us could get to sleep! A car alarm was blaring around 12:30am and it still felt like I hadn't really slept much at that point. Needless to say, 3:45am came rather quickly and I just kind of laid there seriously contemplating a trip to Bellevue Square to go shopping later instead of running the race! <br />
<br />Of course we all soon stumbled out of our beds and into our race gear. I looked out the window and FREAKED out because it was absolutely pouring buckets of rain. I told Cynthia not to look- she was running the full marathon and I didn't want her to stress. I decided to hop in the shower to warm up and soon it was 4:45am and we were packed up and heading down to the car. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YEgj_nqfkzU/T-6Z7wQJxdI/AAAAAAAABpM/zjo5gNvLGgA/s1600/June+2012+iphone+097.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YEgj_nqfkzU/T-6Z7wQJxdI/AAAAAAAABpM/zjo5gNvLGgA/s400/June+2012+iphone+097.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes, the nice front desk man took this photo for us at 5am!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I ate my cliff bar while I drove and we made it to downtown Seattle really fast. Then we sat. And sat. And sat through about 5 million lights and it was starting to be clear that we were potentially not going to make it into the Mercer street garage by 6am. I don't know Seattle very well, and with all of the road closures on top of that, I didn't dare try to find an alternate route and they sent us on a wild goose chase with the directions they gave us. But luckily we were suddenly pulling into the garage at 6:02am and able to use my prepaid parking pass. <br />
<br />While we were sitting in traffic it had also occurred to us that the rain had magically stopped! I had also managed to get all of my stuff together and in my pockets so that once we parked we just hopped out of the car and headed to the race area. Which was about 50 feet away, literally a fantastic parking spot for the race I highly recommend it. Cynthia headed to her Run to Remember corrall and Alyssa and I wandered around trying to find the VIP potty area hosted by Brooks. Cynthia and I were given passes from Brooks at our Online Shoes Girls Night Out (more on that in another post) and Alma was nice enough to give me hers so Alyssa could have one as well. Thanks Alma! <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3goHYjMvufg/T-6aLVMsvYI/AAAAAAAABpk/jMF-kBYp7Vw/s1600/June+2012+iphone+101.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3goHYjMvufg/T-6aLVMsvYI/AAAAAAAABpk/jMF-kBYp7Vw/s400/June+2012+iphone+101.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The race started just below the Space Needle!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There was no waiting in line at these bathrooms and there was a real toilet and running water inside! There were attendants wearing tuxedo shirts outside with trays of Gu, mints, gum and other things you might have forgotten. So spoiled, thank you Brooks Shoes!!! <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HIFq8cXNqw8/T-6aAyVN_jI/AAAAAAAABpU/U98Q-awV8_Q/s1600/June+2012+iphone+100.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HIFq8cXNqw8/T-6aAyVN_jI/AAAAAAAABpU/U98Q-awV8_Q/s400/June+2012+iphone+100.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We pottied like rock stars!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_N8Vq4ZHAQ8/T-6asAQlS4I/AAAAAAAABqc/7NqSFiZhdZg/s1600/rnr+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_N8Vq4ZHAQ8/T-6asAQlS4I/AAAAAAAABqc/7NqSFiZhdZg/s400/rnr+4.jpg" width="262" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pre race with Alyssa</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After that I left Alyssa with Cynthia and headed up to my corral where there was going to be some blogger photos at 6:30am. I chatted with some of the other ladies and we took several group photos. One of the official photographers took our picture too but I haven't seen it yet. For some reason I was thinking the race started at 7:30 and I was suddenly thirsty and realized that I had left my handheld water bottle in the car. Darn it, I am terrible at drinking at water stations and it slows me down. How are you supposed to get better at that anyways, set up some dixie cups around the track while you are running? Anyways, I grabbed some water and suddenly I hear the announcer and I asked this girl next to me what time the race started. She must have thought I was an idiot. It was 6:55am and I had 5 minutes to get back to my corral, find Mel and get my ipod/headphones in order!! <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jVJc_lV8q3s/T-6aRRCQrxI/AAAAAAAABp0/JO0y-JjszWY/s1600/June+2012+iphone+110.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jVJc_lV8q3s/T-6aRRCQrxI/AAAAAAAABp0/JO0y-JjszWY/s400/June+2012+iphone+110.PNG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Group shot! Love this.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I ran into corral 7 and scanned the horizon- thank goodness Mel is tall, I found her in about 30 seconds and jumped in next to her. I got my headphones squared away and I could hear them sending off the first couple of waves as we shuffled along. I took a quick photo or two and soon it was our turn. I told Mel we would stick together but that if she was feeling good she could leave me anytime- I didn't want to be holding her back! We did not coordinate our outfits but we were pretty matchy matchy in all of our pink anyways!! <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Zfr6655W3Rc/T-6aOER2AcI/AAAAAAAABps/I3grWy_1Zg8/s1600/June+2012+iphone+102.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Zfr6655W3Rc/T-6aOER2AcI/AAAAAAAABps/I3grWy_1Zg8/s400/June+2012+iphone+102.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Found Mel without a moment to spare! Probably should have read <br />
the race details...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We chatted for the first mile, getting into a good stride and warming up. It always takes me about a mile for my lungs to settle down and my body to relax into a good pace. I was really just hoping for each mile to be right around a 9 minute pace. I figured if they could all be under 9:10 I would be golden for a sub-2, although I really haven't had much time to actually TRAIN for this race since I have been racing so often! Mel's garmin was freaking out and beeping a lot, saying we were running a 3:40 pace or something like that. Mine seemed to be doing just fine, our pace for mile 2 was a bit fast but I think we really were running that fast and it seemed a bit downhill.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--VRIcWGY9dE/T-6a6V8BEcI/AAAAAAAABq8/irCr0JgFHrg/s1600/rnr+8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--VRIcWGY9dE/T-6a6V8BEcI/AAAAAAAABq8/irCr0JgFHrg/s400/rnr+8.jpg" width="250" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mel's garmin was freaking out. Clearly she was concerned! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Mile 3 I started getting really warm and wondering what to do with my sweaty arm sleeves. I started pulling them down and that felt better. But it was really humid! I was talking less because, to be honest, an 8:50 pace isn't really a conversational pace for me! But I was trying to at least do a little chatting when I could because it was making the miles go by fast and I was enjoying the company!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WnJVOylSsDw/T-6a3iILQPI/AAAAAAAABq0/Sbcjby1yZkA/s1600/rnr+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WnJVOylSsDw/T-6a3iILQPI/AAAAAAAABq0/Sbcjby1yZkA/s400/rnr+7.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My signature race pose- the smile and wave!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<strong><em><span style="color: blue;">Mile 1- 9:05</span></em></strong><br />
<strong><em><span style="color: blue;">Mile 2- 8:25</span></em></strong><br />
<strong><em><span style="color: blue;">Mile 3- 9:11</span></em></strong><br />
<strong><em><span style="color: blue;">Mile 4- 8:57</span></em></strong><br />I remember during mile 4 that our pace was great and I was feeling good- I did have to stop to drink some water and then catch back up to Mel, but we were still at a pretty decent pace. And then we turned the corner and saw IT. The hill. As we approached it there were about 5 timing matts -I guess so nobody could cheat or something like that. We started to run up the hill but it was clear to me that I was going to waste a ton of energy running up it so I just started power walking as fast as I could. Once we got to the top it wasn't any better- we then had to go back down the hill which was just as steep on the other side! <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-koIJtNQUb0s/T-6a0-3XSPI/AAAAAAAABqs/IH3Hu4Ep9E4/s1600/rnr+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-koIJtNQUb0s/T-6a0-3XSPI/AAAAAAAABqs/IH3Hu4Ep9E4/s400/rnr+6.jpg" width="308" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh ya, we are amazing!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />I knew that we had wasted a lot of time getting over that hill so I tried to pick the pace back up as soon as possible. Soon we were running along Lake Washington and I knew the Mile of Rememberance was coming- this section makes me so emotional and get tears in my eyes so I tried to keep my mind on other things so I didn't start sobbing. I have done the running/sobbing thing once before so I know I can do it, but it isn't pretty. Just before that section we found Chelsea waiting on the sidelines and I was so happy to see her and pass off my sweaty arm sleeves! Thank you Chelsea! Ahhhh- that felt so much better! <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hLdbQ6H0QB0/T-6av2HjfwI/AAAAAAAABqk/HozS3ue3gzY/s1600/rnr+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hLdbQ6H0QB0/T-6av2HjfwI/AAAAAAAABqk/HozS3ue3gzY/s400/rnr+5.jpg" width="280" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Still feeling pretty good here</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As we went through the <a href="http://www.wearblueruntoremember.org/">Run to Remember</a> section I tried to look at all of the photos and the family members holding flags and think about the families that no longer have their loved ones. I pushed aside my thoughts of pain and tiredness and ran because I COULD , while their are so many that have lost their lives and can't. Cynthia ran the full marathon with this group and I also thought of her, running twice as far as I was and hoping she was having a good race.<br />
<strong><em><span style="color: blue;">Mile 5- 8:58</span></em></strong><br />
<strong><em><span style="color: blue;">Mile 6- 10:23</span></em></strong><br />
<strong><em><span style="color: blue;">Mile 7- 9:31</span></em></strong><br />
<strong><em><span style="color: blue;">Mile 8- 9:19</span></em></strong><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HF6MG46tib8/T-6bBae4ViI/AAAAAAAABrQ/Far3iHonAu4/s1600/rnr+10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HF6MG46tib8/T-6bBae4ViI/AAAAAAAABrQ/Far3iHonAu4/s400/rnr+10.jpg" width="288" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Running out of poses- lots of camera's!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I think after this we left the pretty section of the race and went into a dark, stinky, hot tunnel that lasted for close to a mile. A WHOLE MILE! I could not wait to get out of that thing, and once we popped out onto the other side it felt so refreshing. We cruised along and I could feel myself slowing down and suddenly I didn't care about a sub-2 any longer. Maybe it was because I hadn't really put much training and effort into it, maybe it was my lack of sleep causing my body to overpower my brain- but whatever it was, suddenly my time didn't matter. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f5NFRdBxUTI/T-6bEekxs7I/AAAAAAAABrY/7D1oAlUODoQ/s1600/rnr+11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f5NFRdBxUTI/T-6bEekxs7I/AAAAAAAABrY/7D1oAlUODoQ/s400/rnr+11.jpg" width="302" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hello up there!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I fought it for a little while, just wanting to keep running with Mel for longer but eventually I stopped at a water station to get a cup of water and I just didn't have the speed to catch back up to her and let her fade away. I wanted her to have the chance at a sub-2 if she had the energy and will power, plus it was time for me to enjoy the scenery for a bit. I turned my music on and settled into a nice pace of my own. I believe we went through a second hot, stinky tunnel and it was not any more enjoyable than the first. I recommend avoiding tunnels when you run. <br />
<br />I remember looking at my Garmin at the 10 mile mark thinking "oh, just a 5K left, that is easy!" and then we started up this enourmous, never ending hill. I did run up most of it, passing lots of people. I wasn't sprinting or anything, but I definitely kept a steady run up almost to the top, but then it curved around and I could see it just kept going, going and going. Ugh. I made a mental note to do more hill work. <br />
<br />After if flattened out I remember thinking that this 5K was taking an absolute eternity and would never, ever end. I was really wishing for a distraction, even thought the view was fantastic. We were below the Pike Market and the waterfront was to the left. There was an amazing ferris wheel set up out by the water. But still, my brain needed something. And suddenly there it was, just ahead and on the right- MEL!!! So I picked up my pace and caught up to her. She was having a rough time too so we stopped and grabbed some water and I told her it was just a little over a mile left as we started running. We stayed together for just a couple of minutes and then I ended up going on ahead of her. <br />
<strong><em><span style="color: blue;">Mile 9- 10:32</span></em></strong><br />
<strong><em><span style="color: blue;">Mile 10- 9:23</span></em></strong><br />
<strong><em><span style="color: blue;">Mile 11- 9:57</span></em></strong><br />
<strong><em><span style="color: blue;">Mile 12- 10:13</span></em></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DAzJhTcN46Q/T-6a99J9lAI/AAAAAAAABrI/U_5JuZ-64Ek/s1600/rnr+9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DAzJhTcN46Q/T-6a99J9lAI/AAAAAAAABrI/U_5JuZ-64Ek/s400/rnr+9.jpg" width="285" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My focus face. The end is near. Right?? </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I felt a little bad leaving her but I had to go with the surge of energy my body suddenly had and finish this beast of a race! I remember my Garmin showing that I had ran 13.1 miles already and still the race went on. What the? I knew the finish line was near, I could hear it and smell it and taste it, but where the heck was it? Oh right, at the top of a hill. Yes, they put the finish line at the top of a very steep hill "oh, it's just after the next hill" the people were calling. Lucky for them I was determined to cross the finish line or I would have let them know how I really felt about running up that last hill, while a million people stared at me so I didn't dare walk even though I felt like I was going to throw up! And then BOOM I was at the top and there was the finish line and I was done! <br />
<strong><em><span style="color: blue;">Mile 13- 9:20</span></em></strong><br />
<strong><em><span style="color: blue;">Mile .27- 2:32 (pace 9:27)</span></em></strong><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tzTHUSQQXlI/T-6aoB8gaMI/AAAAAAAABqU/m0YjkykG4bA/s1600/rnr+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tzTHUSQQXlI/T-6aoB8gaMI/AAAAAAAABqU/m0YjkykG4bA/s400/rnr+3.jpg" width="278" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sybil and I just after crossing the line</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-g4hy0UhuGHc/T-6ahhOpEeI/AAAAAAAABqE/lw1RB8KmbH4/s1600/rnr+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-g4hy0UhuGHc/T-6ahhOpEeI/AAAAAAAABqE/lw1RB8KmbH4/s400/rnr+1.jpg" width="275" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First time I actually had this picture done!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V2CGuzW1EXg/T-6akwqfONI/AAAAAAAABqM/FVfbNHrWUL4/s1600/rnr+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V2CGuzW1EXg/T-6akwqfONI/AAAAAAAABqM/FVfbNHrWUL4/s400/rnr+2.jpg" width="287" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me, Mel and Kerrie</td></tr>
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I met up with Sybil right away and then Kerrie and Mel were suddenly there as well. We gathered all of our goodies and posed for a photo with the chocolate milk folks -best thing ever right after a race by the way, took our official race photos and headed out to search for our meeting area. I had not checked a bag so I just went and sat down at the B area and relaxed. Sitting felt pretty darn good. Soon others wandered over and we hung out in the sunshine (yay!) eating and chatting for a while. Chelsea brought snacks like oranges, trail mix, peanut butter m&m's and mimosa's- she is amazing. She also brought us "4 of the grossest pairs of arm sleeves ever tossed at me during a race" LOL. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QRnqAQkk7pk/T-6evKShYoI/AAAAAAAABrk/g5AeLQCKGJc/s1600/choc+milk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QRnqAQkk7pk/T-6evKShYoI/AAAAAAAABrk/g5AeLQCKGJc/s400/choc+milk.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chocolate Milk Rules!</td></tr>
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Alyssa and I went for a coffee run and then it was time to say good bye to all of our friends and go find Cynthia. She had been texting me to let me know her times and distance so I had a pretty good idea when she would be finishing. She crossed the line just before we got there but we were able to meet her as soon as she came out of the chute. She looked so relaxed- like she just went for a stroll in the park! Crazy girl, I was really glad she had a good race though! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RIsaGsYxydE/T-6aYOIjJBI/AAAAAAAABp8/XWEH79FyFS0/s1600/June+2012+iphone+108.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RIsaGsYxydE/T-6aYOIjJBI/AAAAAAAABp8/XWEH79FyFS0/s400/June+2012+iphone+108.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cynthia after running a marathon- doesn't she look so happy and peaceful?</td></tr>
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We walked around for a bit, then it started to rain so we decided to head for the car. Then it really started pouring rain and when we got to the parking garage I knew we were in the B section- I had looked when I parked. But for the love, we walked all over the B section and could not find the car! I was pushing the button on my remote trying to hear it beep but still no luck. It probably took us 10 minutes to find it so definitely not a PR in that department!<br />
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So overall, this race is on my list of "not to be missed" due to all of the fun and friends involved. For being a huge race (22,000 runners) it is extremely well organized. I did enjoy the course, except for the tunnels and hills and the fact that it seemed longer than 13.1 miles. But the sprinkle of friends everywhere more than makes up for all of that!<br />
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<strong><u>Stats- unless of course you have fallen asleep reading my novel!</u></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: purple;">Total time- 2:05:42</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: purple;">Pace- 9:36</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: purple;">5K- 28:04</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: purple;">10K- 57:25</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: purple;">10Mile- 1:34:45</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: purple;">Overall place: 3841/14249</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: purple;">Gender place: 1748/9578</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: purple;">Division place: 401/1793</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: red;">**photo credit goes to Marathon Foto for many of these pictures**</span></strong>Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03085044548210730897noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7300229258508059510.post-79816575971762627272012-06-26T23:32:00.000-07:002012-06-26T23:32:44.696-07:00Rainier to Ruston Rail-Trail Relay: The Grand Finale (Finally!)<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2wwhLGZIREY/T-qoCfGKdtI/AAAAAAAABo0/xFbNUafmuQQ/s1600/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+089.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="335" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2wwhLGZIREY/T-qoCfGKdtI/AAAAAAAABo0/xFbNUafmuQQ/s400/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+089.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Team Honey Buckettes after completing the Rainier to Ruston 50 mile relay!<br />
Me, Kerrie, Mel and Zoe!</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><em>**I am so far behind on my blog posts! Aaaaah- I guess that is what happens when you have a bazillion things to do everyday. So while I should be writing about all the amazing events surrounding the Rock and Roll half marathon from last weekend, I really need to finish my relay recap from 3 weeks ago!!!**</em></span> <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gkDkQIZfLsQ/T-otxW8KC9I/AAAAAAAABm8/YO4ywhfbt3U/s1600/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gkDkQIZfLsQ/T-otxW8KC9I/AAAAAAAABm8/YO4ywhfbt3U/s400/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+071.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mel off for her 3rd and final leg!</td></tr>
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Mel set out on her final leg of the relay- she had taken her directions and was a little worried she would get lost but she found her way and gave it all she had to finish in a great time. The next interchange was at Tiffany's Skating Rink downtown Puyallup- which was cool because I grew up in Puyallup and basically lived at that skating rink for several years so I knew right where we were going. <br />
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Zoe hung out in the car resting her knee and Kerrie, Will and I went to wait for Mel to zoom in. Kerrie was looking at the directions for her next leg and it said there was going to be sand on the trail. She was asking around about how far the sand went, and some guy let her know that it was for 3 miles. THREE MILES OF SAND? Oh dear, she did not look too happy about that news- especially after she had already done that tough trail for her first leg! At least she could mentally prepare for a few minutes, then Mel arrived and Kerrie headed off to the trail by the river.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-czNHt-8pnzE/T-ouGnfohfI/AAAAAAAABnE/BwCzwQh0i4g/s1600/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-czNHt-8pnzE/T-ouGnfohfI/AAAAAAAABnE/BwCzwQh0i4g/s400/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+073.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Go Kerrie! She looks ready for anything!</td></tr>
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We decided to stop along the trail to cheer Kerrie on (and make sure she was ok, it was kind of a creepy trail) -she seemed happy to see us as she ran by and we headed up the road to the exchange. I realized it was going to be my turn next and I was horribly unprepared! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KI9gFzTgb5o/T-qjHokV9ZI/AAAAAAAABnc/3pWdvPx0Pso/s1600/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+074.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KI9gFzTgb5o/T-qjHokV9ZI/AAAAAAAABnc/3pWdvPx0Pso/s400/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+074.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kerrie running through the <strike>bushes</strike> beautiful, well manicured trail! </td></tr>
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For one thing, this Honey Buckette definitely needed to use a honey bucket before tackling my 5.2 mile final leg! The parking was really full at the exchange so I asked them to let me out while they parked- I knew I probably had less than 10 minutes to get myself squared away. I used the potty first then realized I still had my compression calf sleeves on- I really didn't want to wear them because it was really warm out. So I had to take off my shoes, one by one, and remove my calf sleeves. I also was bringing my handheld water bottle- I had stuffed the directions for this leg inside because they seemed confusing and I really didn't want to get lost.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rriIOcdryA4/T-qjpb2jEFI/AAAAAAAABnk/eOAhGmUMQ5w/s1600/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+076.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rriIOcdryA4/T-qjpb2jEFI/AAAAAAAABnk/eOAhGmUMQ5w/s400/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+076.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hooray! I got ready before she arrived! Note the lovely sand.</td></tr>
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When Mel, Zoe and Will arrived I handed them my calf sleeves and headed over to the exchange point. About a minute later Kerrie arrived and I was off! The first mile was along the river -in SAND! Talk about a leg killer- I was going as fast as I possibly could to get off that trail. Soon I was able to climb the bank and get up onto the main road and take a right, heading into Fife. As I got up onto the road the "F my 3rd leg" vehicle drove by and asked if I was doing ok (very nice of them) and I gave them the thumbs up. Then the honey buckette mobile passed me and they cheered me on too! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7grFvpQEjwA/T-qkBd6wbSI/AAAAAAAABnw/LIw7tnMU8Kk/s1600/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7grFvpQEjwA/T-qkBd6wbSI/AAAAAAAABnw/LIw7tnMU8Kk/s400/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+078.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not sure what is up with my skirt- must have been my lightning fast pace! </td></tr>
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Pretty soon there was a gigantic hill in front of me- I ran up it as best as I could, and once I reached the top I knew there was a turn coming up so I consulted my directions. There were orange painted arrows to help us out and I saw the road to make a left down. I also saw our car parked on the right up ahead, but I had to make a left turn before I reached them! I waved and headed down the road- and there was the "F my 3rd leg" car. They yelled out "hey slow down so we can catch up to you!" I just laughed and said "no way!". There was a girl up ahead of me but she was pretty far and I didnt' know if I would be able to pass her but at least there was another runner in sight!<br />
<br />Suddenly I reached the end of the road and that runner girl was just standing there looking very confused about where to go. I pulled out the directions and read them to her- she hadn't brought her phone or the directions! I was pretty sure we should take a left, but the wording of the directions was very confusing! It said to "turn left on 20th street, run on the left shoulder and continue under I-5". Except that as we turned onto 20th we were running parallel with I-5 so it felt wrong and we questioned it for a very long time. She tagged along with me (I think she was afraid to be alone without a phone, can't blame her) and we stopped several times to reread the directions. At one point I was almost convinced we had missed our turn and had gone about a mile in the wrong direction and I just kept wishing for an orange arrow or ribbon that would let me know we were heading the right way!<br />
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Finally the road curved to the right and we were running under I-5 and there was a single posted sign on the side of the road that said "runners on road" and I knew we were going the right way. I pointed to the sign, gave my buddy the thumbs up and cruised on ahead picking up my pace. The next turn was a left over the Puyallup River Bridge, and suddenly I knew where I was and how to get there, such a relief! We ran up Puyallup Avenue, past some very sketchy bars and gas stations- I must have been quite the site for some of those people in my sparkle skirt. I passed 2 more runners on this road- I was on a mission to finish! One girl called out to me as I passed her and asked if I knew which road to turn on- "D!" I hollered back, hoping she heard me clearly. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-13KlyrgYYuA/T-qlQOjxR1I/AAAAAAAABn4/M9AjJNTtX4s/s1600/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-13KlyrgYYuA/T-qlQOjxR1I/AAAAAAAABn4/M9AjJNTtX4s/s400/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+080.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Almost done!</td></tr>
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I crossed the light at D street, headed up the hill and turned onto Dock street where I could see/hear the finish area. I summoned every ounce of energy I had in my body and cruised into the finish, rang the bell and there was Zoe- with her knee all taped up and ready to finish the race for our team. There was a wedding going on too and I felt a little sorry for them- they will definitely have some interesting wedding photos! I was done, and glad I didn't get too lost even though I felt like I was for a little while. There needs to be better road markings on leg 11, the poor guy from "F my third leg" was lost for 30 minutes! I was a little dissappointed with my time, but I guess it isn't too bad considering it was a mile of sand and I was dead stopped reading those directions several times! Total distance 5.33 miles in 52 minutes for a pace of 9:43. Oh, and 12.7 miles for the day!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OFVeSEOUfM4/T-qlc9u48LI/AAAAAAAABoA/WpbdeAukxzw/s1600/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+081.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OFVeSEOUfM4/T-qlc9u48LI/AAAAAAAABoA/WpbdeAukxzw/s400/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+081.JPG" width="351" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Always consulting my Garmin!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f1y3gseBrxw/T-qmEOmlz4I/AAAAAAAABoI/Ik0hvnAYGAk/s1600/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f1y3gseBrxw/T-qmEOmlz4I/AAAAAAAABoI/Ik0hvnAYGAk/s400/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+082.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love this one of Zoe- right at the top of the hill leaving Dock Street!</td></tr>
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Zoe was such a great team member- she was clearly in pain but wanted to finish out her part of the relay and did an amazing job! We caught her running up the big hill off of Dock Street and she was all smiles. We parked down at The Ram on the waterfront- I thought the finish line was much closer but as we walked down it became obvious we were a good mile away! We didn't want Zoe to have to walk that far after she ran so Kerrie and I ran (yes, she was in her furry crocs and I just finished my last leg but we ran) back to get the car and move it closer. It was going to be close and Zoe passed us right as we got to the car! I drove as quickly and safely as possible down to the finish line, parked and we got to the finish line literally as Zoe was about to come through. Whew!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rc_CXkq_aIs/T-qmWabDhZI/AAAAAAAABoQ/fj4UexUh3pc/s1600/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rc_CXkq_aIs/T-qmWabDhZI/AAAAAAAABoQ/fj4UexUh3pc/s400/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+084.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Go Zoe! Love the clouds in this one!</td></tr>
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We decided to cross the line together as a team -there was a guy in front of Zoe who was finishing the 50 mile ultra race so we held back and let him finish ahead of us. Those ultra runners are so inspirational! After we crossed the line we recieved medals (bonus!) and joked about going to get our prize at the booth. Guess we should have checked because we found out that our team took first place in our division- 4 person all female team! We won gold railroad spikes and because we won our division wearing sparkle skirts we each got a free skirt! Thank you <a href="http://www.team-sparkle.com/">Team Sparkle</a> for my pretty new pink sparkle skirt!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BKx87ApjuU8/T-qmmfQxEZI/AAAAAAAABoc/bVzKjcVAfyY/s1600/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BKx87ApjuU8/T-qmmfQxEZI/AAAAAAAABoc/bVzKjcVAfyY/s400/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+086.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We held back and let the ultra runner finish his race first</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k47ce9ubm7I/T-qnFyDHwNI/AAAAAAAABok/yyZE-ByET3U/s1600/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+091.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k47ce9ubm7I/T-qnFyDHwNI/AAAAAAAABok/yyZE-ByET3U/s400/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+091.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Done! The Honey Buckettes finished in 7:57:06!!</td></tr>
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We celebrated with dinner and some beers at The Ram- what a fun day. Absolutely exhausting, but so much fun at the same time. Relays are the best! This race is on our calendar for next year for sure!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q7m4cAi6ak0/T-qnlhVwUjI/AAAAAAAABos/OP7raLHQrpE/s1600/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+093.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q7m4cAi6ak0/T-qnlhVwUjI/AAAAAAAABos/OP7raLHQrpE/s400/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+093.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The only way to celebrate an amazing relay!!</td></tr>
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Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03085044548210730897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7300229258508059510.post-21836812495101691932012-06-12T19:55:00.000-07:002012-06-12T19:55:27.449-07:00Rainier to Ruston Rail-Trail Relay- Part 2<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NZI-I32fd50/T9f75Mp_vII/AAAAAAAABkg/J_IW6If4nkQ/s1600/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NZI-I32fd50/T9f75Mp_vII/AAAAAAAABkg/J_IW6If4nkQ/s400/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+053.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waiting for Zoe</td></tr>
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Mel's hubby and their kiddos met her at the start of her second leg so they could run with her for a mile or so -isn't that cool? After Zoe tagged Mel in South Prairie her family headed off down the foothills trail (a paved path) heading for Crocker. We piled back into the Honey Buckette mobile and drove down to the next exchange area. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ge1gI3Bpc4s/T9f5szrZipI/AAAAAAAABjM/dKPPNbtNQwI/s1600/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ge1gI3Bpc4s/T9f5szrZipI/AAAAAAAABjM/dKPPNbtNQwI/s400/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+054.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mel and her family- they ran part of her second leg with her!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uty3c6dc5cM/T9f5g8wAk-I/AAAAAAAABjE/9K1JsaIh10I/s1600/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uty3c6dc5cM/T9f5g8wAk-I/AAAAAAAABjE/9K1JsaIh10I/s400/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+059.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mel is an amazing teammate- she gives 110%, leaving not an ounce of energy to spare! </td></tr>
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Once Mel arrived and tagged Kerrie both Zoe and I could tell that Mel was not feeling very good. She had been sick for the last two weeks and she was pushing herself so hard on these runs her body was not having a good time. She is definitely an inspiration- she knows how to give every single ounce of energy she has into a race, that is for sure! We ran and got her some water and a cliff bar and soon she was feeling better. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rJRiQhEJWSQ/T9f5ZwMywDI/AAAAAAAABi8/_BvCi9zlHpE/s1600/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rJRiQhEJWSQ/T9f5ZwMywDI/AAAAAAAABi8/_BvCi9zlHpE/s400/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+058.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Halfway!</td></tr>
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The crazy thing about this relay was that every 1 to 1.5 hours it was your turn to run again, so staying properly fueled and hydrated was a bit tricky! I had brought bananas, cliff bars, pretzels, mini bagels, individual peanut butter cups and some string cheese to munch on while waiting to run again (I like to be prepared). As soon as I was done running I would drink an entire bottle of water -with <a href="http://www.nuun.com/">NUUN</a> inside of course, and have something to munch on so it had a chance to settle.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-20MfDA0OnsA/T9f58ON6DlI/AAAAAAAABjY/t_4bk47ObDc/s1600/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-20MfDA0OnsA/T9f58ON6DlI/AAAAAAAABjY/t_4bk47ObDc/s400/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+060.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There goes speedy Kerrie- apparently there was an Emu along this stretch!</td></tr>
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Anyways, we didn't have too much time to dilly dally- speedy Kerrie was out on a short 2.7 mile leg and we didn't want her to beat us to Orting! She was on a serious mission to pass the "f my third leg" team (orange shirts) so I knew that in no time at all she would be ringing the bell and it would be my turn again! We parked the car and I hurried to use the bathroom really quick. The sun was peeking out off and on so it was a bit warmer but I figured for 3.4 miles I would be ok without my handheld water. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TIvWte5b3r8/T9f6FcI3p1I/AAAAAAAABjg/YSRdUyKKaps/s1600/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TIvWte5b3r8/T9f6FcI3p1I/AAAAAAAABjg/YSRdUyKKaps/s400/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+062.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I forgot my second pair of shoes- thanks Will for cleaning all of the mud off of these ones!</td></tr>
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Kerrie was at the exchange before I knew it and off I sped- about 60 seconds away and then I was stopped at the light to cross the road with one of the other relay teams. And then before the light changed guess who else joined us? Mr. Orange shirt from "F my third leg" of course! So the pressure was on, and I was ready to kick it into high gear once the light changed- which took an eternity by the way! But as soon as the walk sign lit up I bolted across the street and never looked back- I kept my lead for about 1.71 miles- I know this because the orange shirt guy was suddenly matching my pace and he asked how far we were so I told him. And then suddenly he just stopped running started walking- I was thinking "what the heck!" he was making me push my pace faster! I found out later that he had exhausted himself trying to catch up to me and thought we were closer to the end I guess! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-euDdIp9RmYw/T9f6MfINzRI/AAAAAAAABjo/qjMa_NPbT5Y/s1600/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-euDdIp9RmYw/T9f6MfINzRI/AAAAAAAABjo/qjMa_NPbT5Y/s400/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+064.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The girls- Mel, Kerrie and Zoe while I was probably sitting at that light haha. Could have had my picture taken!!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q1kit_OwgxE/T9f6gDau2CI/AAAAAAAABj0/D4l8zZx3Rko/s1600/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q1kit_OwgxE/T9f6gDau2CI/AAAAAAAABj0/D4l8zZx3Rko/s400/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+065.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On a mission. And heel striking- darn it! I try so hard to focus on my stride.</td></tr>
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I passed quite a few people along here- plenty of 50 mile ultra runners and I made sure to give them a "good job" as I passed. Believe me- it really isn't that impressive to pass somebody who has been running for about 30 miles at this point! Those runners were amazing and I was trying to be as respectful and encouraging as possible. I also passed at least one relay team and the other two relayers never caught up to me. I was pretty thirsty and getting hot- the sun poked out during most of my run and I found myself wishing for my water bottle and a tank top!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NZW6gI4Gmwc/T9f6mojqGbI/AAAAAAAABj8/VIaJbSDG0tk/s1600/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NZW6gI4Gmwc/T9f6mojqGbI/AAAAAAAABj8/VIaJbSDG0tk/s400/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+067.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I can see the finish line! And the 'F my 3rd leg' team, probably wondering where their buddy is!</td></tr>
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Soon I was heading into the exchange shoot and everyone was cheering me on and I zoomed into the shoot, rang the bell and tagged Zoe for her second run! My leg ended at the Scholz farm in McMillin off of the Orting Highway- it was 3.4 flat miles on a paved path with a couple of spots where I had to wait for a light to cross the road, but nothing too complicated. I finished with an average pace of 8:41- would have been faster without that darn light in the beginning!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gW1WNooeYEY/T9f6zmF5SSI/AAAAAAAABkE/mvHh2ehn3PI/s1600/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gW1WNooeYEY/T9f6zmF5SSI/AAAAAAAABkE/mvHh2ehn3PI/s400/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+068.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I pulled the string and the bell didn't ring- tagged Zoe and she was off! We were all smiles!</td></tr>
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As we were heading to the next exchange we realized that the directions were wrong or we had missed a turn, but we were definitely not in the right spot! Luckily Mel was familiar with the area and we quickly turned around and made it to the exchange before Zoe did! I changed my outfit (in a honey bucket- that is a first!) while we waited and Mel was chatting with some of the other runners- she was a little worried about getting lost on this leg. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vj-Gg2shbDU/T9f6_RpmFLI/AAAAAAAABkQ/odXcgGYwqTM/s1600/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vj-Gg2shbDU/T9f6_RpmFLI/AAAAAAAABkQ/odXcgGYwqTM/s400/Mothers+day+and+R2R+relay+069.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zoe is in the bright orange top, heading down the trail</td></tr>
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When Zoe arrived she tagged Mel and she began our last set of legs- but it was apparent that Zoe's knee was really bothering her. We got her some ice but she wasn't sure if she would be able to run her last leg at that point. <br />
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To be continued...<br />
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SPOILER ALERT! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DsNr6wL2QHE/T9f_-Gz-HYI/AAAAAAAABks/HwJZRAxC_QA/s1600/Honey+Buckettes+1st+Place.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DsNr6wL2QHE/T9f_-Gz-HYI/AAAAAAAABks/HwJZRAxC_QA/s400/Honey+Buckettes+1st+Place.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That's right- we won our division! <br />
Photo credit goes to Mel!<br />
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<br />Tiffanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03085044548210730897noreply@blogger.com1