Well... I thought I remembered looking at my training plan and seeing an easy 40-50 minute run for day 1. Ha! Just before I was heading out I checked. Workout!
Matt and I were in Richmond so we went to his high school track. Ended up being a solid workout. 12x 20 seconds progressing from 5k to mile pace. Quick and fairly painless...until today! Legs are nice and stiff for the 12 hour trip. :)
Looking forward to running with an old running buddy later this week. Hopefully week 1 will be great!
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Monday, December 26, 2011
Friday, December 23, 2011
8 Merry Marathons Day 4
Bayshore Marathon-- May 24, 2008
Traverse City, Michigan
"The marathon is a charismatic event. It has everything. It has drama. It has competition. It has camaraderie. It has heroism. Every jogger can't dream of being an Olympic champion, but he can dream of finishing a marathon." -Fred Lebow
After the poor showings and bad weather of '07 it was time to take another stab at the marathon. This time I was flying solo. My training companion was preparing to have baby #1. Meanwhile, I was a ball of nerves driving up the night before. I was in my head. Overthinking. Doubting the training and sure that I couldn't pull off the 3:20 I wanted.
Fortunately, somehow I shook it come morning. I fell into my usual pre-race routine and rocked out on the way to the start. It was a brisk, almost 40 degree, morning when the race started. Things started off well--after passing the walkers who started at the front--and I fell into rhythm.
6 miles in the unimaginable happened. My watch died. Just decided that it had a good run and was done. At that point there were two choices: freak out or run. I chose the latter and made friends along the way, checking in on my progress.
Lesson learned: not knowing how fast or slow you are going... But following your body's lead is liberating and less mentally exhausting.
I remember feeling awesome at mile 20 and smiling when I saw Matt along the way. Finishing was almost surreal. I can't really say anything 'negative' about this race. If I could replicate how I felt that day every race...or every run..I would!
It definitely felt great to see the solo miles payoff.
Time: 3:18:01
Place: 12th woman
Take away: I need a new goal...
Traverse City, Michigan
"The marathon is a charismatic event. It has everything. It has drama. It has competition. It has camaraderie. It has heroism. Every jogger can't dream of being an Olympic champion, but he can dream of finishing a marathon." -Fred Lebow
After the poor showings and bad weather of '07 it was time to take another stab at the marathon. This time I was flying solo. My training companion was preparing to have baby #1. Meanwhile, I was a ball of nerves driving up the night before. I was in my head. Overthinking. Doubting the training and sure that I couldn't pull off the 3:20 I wanted.
Fortunately, somehow I shook it come morning. I fell into my usual pre-race routine and rocked out on the way to the start. It was a brisk, almost 40 degree, morning when the race started. Things started off well--after passing the walkers who started at the front--and I fell into rhythm.
6 miles in the unimaginable happened. My watch died. Just decided that it had a good run and was done. At that point there were two choices: freak out or run. I chose the latter and made friends along the way, checking in on my progress.
Lesson learned: not knowing how fast or slow you are going... But following your body's lead is liberating and less mentally exhausting.
I remember feeling awesome at mile 20 and smiling when I saw Matt along the way. Finishing was almost surreal. I can't really say anything 'negative' about this race. If I could replicate how I felt that day every race...or every run..I would!
It definitely felt great to see the solo miles payoff.
Time: 3:18:01
Place: 12th woman
Take away: I need a new goal...
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
8 Merry Marathons: Day 2
2nd Marathon:
Boston Marathon, April 16th, 2007
"The marathon can humble you." --Bill Rogers, winner of 4 Boston and 4 NYC marathons
Everything about the Boston experience was emotional in some capacity. Kelly and I decided after qualifying to take the adventure together, but maybe it was just a little too soon. We soon discovered that racing even a month earlier (April), posed some awesome challenges in the midwest. Namely, large quantities of snow and ice that aren't cleared and freezing temperatures throughout all of training. NOT FUN for someone who is perpetually cold. As time passed it became clear that this was not going to be a 'go run it as hard as you can marathon,' but 'an experience marathon.' The long runs weren't quite there, etc... but at least we both kind of stunk on training so we could run together.
The night before the race, we're in Wardo's apartment and the nor'easter is taking effect outside, with winds whipping around, raining and just overall awful. We were going to go run in like 7 hours. Awesome.
Capture the moment: Kelly and I basically jumping on Katie's bed, grasping each other and shrieking like fools, what are we doing!? This is crazy, this is crazy!! (Emotion: Crazy)
Morning of the race we get bused out to the start. In order to get everyone out on time, they ship you out hours in advance. There were tents set up, but they were full of people sitting, stretching and getting off their feet. Guess who didn't fit under a tent? Us. So, we stood there for the couple of hours pre-race, just letting the legs get tired. (Emotion: Frustration/Fatigue and a lot of what the heck?!)
To be honest, I don't remember much of the race itself. I wasn't prepared and definitely felt it early on. We wound through the historic course, through Wellesley and thousands of cheering mobs. The next thing I remember is heart break. Now, yes, heartbreak is not relatively steep, but it is strategically located in the race when you want to die. So, being not as trained as desired.... it sucked. I don't think I've ever had so many negative thoughts running through my head as there were then. Gone were the fun miles of cheering fans and wonderment. Here was the reality. Marathons are brutal.
With four miles to go, Kelly and I were taking turns needing moral support to continue. She'd feel good and pull me along and then I'd catch a good feeling and make sure she came with me. It was the longest four miles of my life (still pretty sure that's accurate). People were passing out jelly beans, and even as a gummy fiend, they looked repulsive. All I wanted was that finish line. The Citgo sign looms in the sky, taunting you, trying to make you believe you are closer than you really are to the finish. (Feeling: Despair, Exhaustion)
As we made our way down the final stretch, almost in tears, I said to Kelly, 'we started together and we need to finish together,' so we finished hand in hand. Crossing the line was like making it through war---war with yourself. There were so many times I wanted to concede defeat and throw in the towel. However, I made it through, with the help of my best friend, and I'm so thankful for that accomplishment.
Fast forward six months: and the moment of pure emotion would become shared across the running world. Adidas selected Kelly and my finishing photo for the 2008 Boston outdoor campaign, meaning that big and small Kelly and Jackie's would be all over Beantown and larger cities before the 2008 Marathon---so exciting!
Biggest Lesson: Do not run a marathon without the proper training. Do not go back to Boston until you are ready for the all the madness that it entails.
Time: 3:51:12
Place: 3052nd woman
Boston Marathon, April 16th, 2007
"The marathon can humble you." --Bill Rogers, winner of 4 Boston and 4 NYC marathons
Everything about the Boston experience was emotional in some capacity. Kelly and I decided after qualifying to take the adventure together, but maybe it was just a little too soon. We soon discovered that racing even a month earlier (April), posed some awesome challenges in the midwest. Namely, large quantities of snow and ice that aren't cleared and freezing temperatures throughout all of training. NOT FUN for someone who is perpetually cold. As time passed it became clear that this was not going to be a 'go run it as hard as you can marathon,' but 'an experience marathon.' The long runs weren't quite there, etc... but at least we both kind of stunk on training so we could run together.
The night before the race, we're in Wardo's apartment and the nor'easter is taking effect outside, with winds whipping around, raining and just overall awful. We were going to go run in like 7 hours. Awesome.
Capture the moment: Kelly and I basically jumping on Katie's bed, grasping each other and shrieking like fools, what are we doing!? This is crazy, this is crazy!! (Emotion: Crazy)
Morning of the race we get bused out to the start. In order to get everyone out on time, they ship you out hours in advance. There were tents set up, but they were full of people sitting, stretching and getting off their feet. Guess who didn't fit under a tent? Us. So, we stood there for the couple of hours pre-race, just letting the legs get tired. (Emotion: Frustration/Fatigue and a lot of what the heck?!)
To be honest, I don't remember much of the race itself. I wasn't prepared and definitely felt it early on. We wound through the historic course, through Wellesley and thousands of cheering mobs. The next thing I remember is heart break. Now, yes, heartbreak is not relatively steep, but it is strategically located in the race when you want to die. So, being not as trained as desired.... it sucked. I don't think I've ever had so many negative thoughts running through my head as there were then. Gone were the fun miles of cheering fans and wonderment. Here was the reality. Marathons are brutal.
With four miles to go, Kelly and I were taking turns needing moral support to continue. She'd feel good and pull me along and then I'd catch a good feeling and make sure she came with me. It was the longest four miles of my life (still pretty sure that's accurate). People were passing out jelly beans, and even as a gummy fiend, they looked repulsive. All I wanted was that finish line. The Citgo sign looms in the sky, taunting you, trying to make you believe you are closer than you really are to the finish. (Feeling: Despair, Exhaustion)
As we made our way down the final stretch, almost in tears, I said to Kelly, 'we started together and we need to finish together,' so we finished hand in hand. Crossing the line was like making it through war---war with yourself. There were so many times I wanted to concede defeat and throw in the towel. However, I made it through, with the help of my best friend, and I'm so thankful for that accomplishment.
Fast forward six months: and the moment of pure emotion would become shared across the running world. Adidas selected Kelly and my finishing photo for the 2008 Boston outdoor campaign, meaning that big and small Kelly and Jackie's would be all over Beantown and larger cities before the 2008 Marathon---so exciting!
Biggest Lesson: Do not run a marathon without the proper training. Do not go back to Boston until you are ready for the all the madness that it entails.
Time: 3:51:12
Place: 3052nd woman
Monday, December 19, 2011
8 Merry Marathons: Day 3
"The difference between the mile and the marathon is the difference between burning your fingers with a match and being slowly roasted over hot coals."-- Hal Higdon, running writer and coach
Ahhh..nothing could be truer of the my third attempt at the marathon. If we are starting to see one trend, it's training and the challenges that temperature, work load, sleep etc.. can impose on it.
3rd marathon: Chicago Marathon, October 7, 2007
It was a hot summer in South Bend for training. Despite not being a morning person, I made efforts to go early. Kelly and I were training together again and we got together for a few long runs... only for most of them to be unbearably warm and end sooner than intended. However, in general, training went pretty well. Nothing (besides elite status or training in the desert) could really prepare you for what was to come though.
Seeded in a coral, I was fortunate enough not be in the back of the 45,000 runners, but was probably more like 15,000 deep. The air was already warm at gun time, but I was determined to get after the 3:20 goal that had been looming before me. Three miles in... the sweat was starting to bead on my face... NOT GOOD.
This was supposed to be a race to make me proud. Four of my athletes came in to Chicago, donning home made shirts with sayings like, "This lady is crazy, and I do what she says!" and buns, while riding the L around Chicago cheering me on. It made my heart so happy that these young women took the time to come support me, as their coach. Matt, my parents and brother also came for the race and made their way through the city to different sections to support me. It was amazing. And then the race happened and I felt like such a disappointment. I saw my girls at the half way mark, coming over the bridge, and I tried my best to look upbeat, but things were starting to get rough. At mile 16, I was nearly alone on a out of reach stretch. I remember seeing my dad and I just wanted to cry and have him tell me I could stop. It was so painful. I couldn't drink enough fluids or pour enough on my body to stay cool. Puddles formed in my shoes from the water and sweat running down me. Now was a time for survival. Those last 10 miles was a combination of running as much as I could and walking through pain. Probably the scariest thing at this time was that I was passing people. The field had slowed and people were going down left and right.
Finally, goals long dead, I made my way to the final turn before the last 1/2-3/4 mile straight away into the finish. As I approached the turn, a woman was waiving her arms and telling me to stop. STOP?!? NOW?! HELL NO. I just put my body through hell for almost 4 hours and I am going through that finish line. I earned it! No ma'am I will not stop. So I pressed ahead---to see my four girls along the straight away, cheering and smiling. Finishing, I just about crashed. I felt sick, like I wanted to assume the fetal position and just exist. Coming through, I was perplexed by droves of runners running around the finish area. The marathon had been shut down and runners were being diverted off the back half of the course. Thousands of people who started that day were never allowed to finish. Posed with a challenging situation, race directors had to make a tough call, and unfortunately it resulted in many DNF's.
Ahhh..nothing could be truer of the my third attempt at the marathon. If we are starting to see one trend, it's training and the challenges that temperature, work load, sleep etc.. can impose on it.
3rd marathon: Chicago Marathon, October 7, 2007
It was a hot summer in South Bend for training. Despite not being a morning person, I made efforts to go early. Kelly and I were training together again and we got together for a few long runs... only for most of them to be unbearably warm and end sooner than intended. However, in general, training went pretty well. Nothing (besides elite status or training in the desert) could really prepare you for what was to come though.
Seeded in a coral, I was fortunate enough not be in the back of the 45,000 runners, but was probably more like 15,000 deep. The air was already warm at gun time, but I was determined to get after the 3:20 goal that had been looming before me. Three miles in... the sweat was starting to bead on my face... NOT GOOD.
This was supposed to be a race to make me proud. Four of my athletes came in to Chicago, donning home made shirts with sayings like, "This lady is crazy, and I do what she says!" and buns, while riding the L around Chicago cheering me on. It made my heart so happy that these young women took the time to come support me, as their coach. Matt, my parents and brother also came for the race and made their way through the city to different sections to support me. It was amazing. And then the race happened and I felt like such a disappointment. I saw my girls at the half way mark, coming over the bridge, and I tried my best to look upbeat, but things were starting to get rough. At mile 16, I was nearly alone on a out of reach stretch. I remember seeing my dad and I just wanted to cry and have him tell me I could stop. It was so painful. I couldn't drink enough fluids or pour enough on my body to stay cool. Puddles formed in my shoes from the water and sweat running down me. Now was a time for survival. Those last 10 miles was a combination of running as much as I could and walking through pain. Probably the scariest thing at this time was that I was passing people. The field had slowed and people were going down left and right.
Finally, goals long dead, I made my way to the final turn before the last 1/2-3/4 mile straight away into the finish. As I approached the turn, a woman was waiving her arms and telling me to stop. STOP?!? NOW?! HELL NO. I just put my body through hell for almost 4 hours and I am going through that finish line. I earned it! No ma'am I will not stop. So I pressed ahead---to see my four girls along the straight away, cheering and smiling. Finishing, I just about crashed. I felt sick, like I wanted to assume the fetal position and just exist. Coming through, I was perplexed by droves of runners running around the finish area. The marathon had been shut down and runners were being diverted off the back half of the course. Thousands of people who started that day were never allowed to finish. Posed with a challenging situation, race directors had to make a tough call, and unfortunately it resulted in many DNF's.
8 Merry Marathons-- Day 1
So in the spirit of the season, I thought I would do my own rendition of the 'Days of Christmas' with a countdown to Day 1 of training by reflecting on the marathons of years past..
Olympic Gold Medalist, Frank Shorter, once said, "You have to forget your last marathon before you try another. Your mind can't know what's coming."
To date I have run 7 marathons and each has provided its own unique experience that has enabled me to grow and improve as a runner. While I agree that you do need to forget your last race before starting another, I also believe it is important to use past experiences to build confidence. In the next week I will outline the good, the bad, the exciting, and possibly the ugly from my previous marathons.
Marathon 1: Cleveland Marathon, May 2006
I'm not exactly sure how we first decided it was time to run a marathon, but my running compadre and life long friend, Kelly and I decided it was time. We picked Cleveland because it was a spring marathon, that was relatively flat and we could stay at my parents house, so travel was limited.
We had a two prong goal. One, we wanted to qualify for Boston by running better than 3:40. Second, we were both targeting a 3:20 finish. I'm pretty sure I just randomly picked 3:20 because it was a nice round number... who knows.
What I learned: Do not attempt (and successfully complete) the Army challenge 90 (or was it 60?) second hold just to win a t-shirt the day before the marathon. My arms were SORE.
Favorie memory: Meeting Bill Rogers at the expo. He is such an enthusiastic supporter of runners and such an advocate of the sport.
Least favorite part: Mile 17. Coming up Martin Luther King Drive...and having to walk because of seering pain in my side. Seeing the men in uniform cheering for me and knowing that it was going to be a long 9 miles to the finish.
On finishing: It was cold, painful, and I needed assistance getting to the car but it was 100% worth it. I'm pretty sure I was frustrated just enough that I knew another one was coming sooner than later... Oh ya, and Kelly kicked my butt!
Time: 3:30:55
Place: 33rd woman
Olympic Gold Medalist, Frank Shorter, once said, "You have to forget your last marathon before you try another. Your mind can't know what's coming."
To date I have run 7 marathons and each has provided its own unique experience that has enabled me to grow and improve as a runner. While I agree that you do need to forget your last race before starting another, I also believe it is important to use past experiences to build confidence. In the next week I will outline the good, the bad, the exciting, and possibly the ugly from my previous marathons.
Marathon 1: Cleveland Marathon, May 2006
I'm not exactly sure how we first decided it was time to run a marathon, but my running compadre and life long friend, Kelly and I decided it was time. We picked Cleveland because it was a spring marathon, that was relatively flat and we could stay at my parents house, so travel was limited.
We had a two prong goal. One, we wanted to qualify for Boston by running better than 3:40. Second, we were both targeting a 3:20 finish. I'm pretty sure I just randomly picked 3:20 because it was a nice round number... who knows.
What I learned: Do not attempt (and successfully complete) the Army challenge 90 (or was it 60?) second hold just to win a t-shirt the day before the marathon. My arms were SORE.
Favorie memory: Meeting Bill Rogers at the expo. He is such an enthusiastic supporter of runners and such an advocate of the sport.
Least favorite part: Mile 17. Coming up Martin Luther King Drive...and having to walk because of seering pain in my side. Seeing the men in uniform cheering for me and knowing that it was going to be a long 9 miles to the finish.
On finishing: It was cold, painful, and I needed assistance getting to the car but it was 100% worth it. I'm pretty sure I was frustrated just enough that I knew another one was coming sooner than later... Oh ya, and Kelly kicked my butt!
Time: 3:30:55
Place: 33rd woman
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Half the sky topics in the news
Ok... Last one today. Just reading top news and this came across. It reads like an excerpt of Half the Sky. It will undoubtably infuriate you, read with caution. If you find your blood boiling or your jaw dropping---my guess is you believe in the GOTR mission too.
http://on.msnbc.com/u0MsVY
Ok, no more tonight. Although I'm convinced I'm writing for my own benefit.
http://on.msnbc.com/u0MsVY
Ok, no more tonight. Although I'm convinced I'm writing for my own benefit.
Motivation
Presented at a motivation seminar on campus tonight. So exciting to see students interested and engaged. Love to see them walk away with something. What helps keep me motivated?
Staring at this on the wall above my computer every day....
Staring at this on the wall above my computer every day....
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Pre-pre marathon training...
might actually be the hardest part of training.
Yep, that's right. No, not the 20 miler or the threshold run that lasts forever, it's the lack of training that is probably the most brutal. Once training starts, there is no eh, it's ok if I don't run today. It's more like I have an hour run scheduled for 2:00 and I need to eat by 'x' and get to work by 'x' to make it work, etc.. Right now it's the stress of creating too much of a schedule before needing a schedule... blah blah blah...so then things appear haphazard and I get frustrated. Let the training begin already!! T-20 days until I'm on the regimen. Until then... I'll hope the IT band cooperates and try to deal with this frustrating stretch...
...and prepare for the cold.
Yep, that's right. No, not the 20 miler or the threshold run that lasts forever, it's the lack of training that is probably the most brutal. Once training starts, there is no eh, it's ok if I don't run today. It's more like I have an hour run scheduled for 2:00 and I need to eat by 'x' and get to work by 'x' to make it work, etc.. Right now it's the stress of creating too much of a schedule before needing a schedule... blah blah blah...so then things appear haphazard and I get frustrated. Let the training begin already!! T-20 days until I'm on the regimen. Until then... I'll hope the IT band cooperates and try to deal with this frustrating stretch...
...and prepare for the cold.
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Ruby slippers
There's no place like Boston...train me to Boston...train me to Boston...
New shoes are like Christmas. This means the real training is coming soon.
Broke them in yesterday.... 9.5 miles. Solid.
New shoes are like Christmas. This means the real training is coming soon.
Broke them in yesterday.... 9.5 miles. Solid.
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Half the Sky
Education. Education. Education.
It's funny how themes pop up in our lives. Education seems to be one of mine....
As a college coach, I talk to a lot of high school parents and students, as well as college students and their parents. This is one of the reasons I love my job. I love interacting with these groups--getting to know them, sharing with them and hopefully coaching their daughters. Inevitably, one of the questions that arises with perspective parents is cost. Understandable. I'm not going to sit here and sell my school specifically (although I could), but I am going to say this is one of the most interesting questions for me. My answer is, your investment is worth every dime. The payout of a solid education is priceless, really. Again, not product specific, but if a kid is going to benefit from going to a school that has a top engineering program because that's their passion... it's worth it. If the family values a university with a religious affiliation, it's worth it.
Currently, I'm reading Nicholas Kristof's novel, Half the Sky. The book is about women in the world (or half the sky/population) and how much better a place the world would be if women were treated equally and able to share themselves with the world. If you haven't heard of it or read it, pick it up. Today. I was fortunate enough to see him speak at Saint Mary's last year about his experiences and travel around the globe meeting women. It was just heartbreaking and inspiring, all at the same time, much like his book. What's the connection? Right now he's describing some of the conditions in Arab nations and the brutality that women experience---and how the tolerate and come to believe they should receive it---because they are uneducated. And I mean UNEDUCATED. No elementary school. Nothing. Crushing. Here are women who are brutally raped and maimed because they are women and have no voice and no one to protect them. The book is not all heartbreak though as Nicholas brilliantly shows how some women have risen above against all odds---those who have been educated.
It is a hard book to read, but an even harder book to put down. It makes you feel helpless but inspired. I know that the work we are doing at Girls on the Run is such a smaller scale with very different circumstances... but it is still educating young girls on what is acceptable and what is not. I love to see the areas of my life interweave... and I feel like this is all happening as I prepare to begin leadership training with my seniors. Education at a much higher, intricate level, but an education that will hopefully serve them well as they embark on their careers, start families and become social entrepreneurs.
This blog is for Kris. Thank you for lending me your book. I finally got to it...and I'm sure I'll need to buy my own copy. :)
It's funny how themes pop up in our lives. Education seems to be one of mine....
As a college coach, I talk to a lot of high school parents and students, as well as college students and their parents. This is one of the reasons I love my job. I love interacting with these groups--getting to know them, sharing with them and hopefully coaching their daughters. Inevitably, one of the questions that arises with perspective parents is cost. Understandable. I'm not going to sit here and sell my school specifically (although I could), but I am going to say this is one of the most interesting questions for me. My answer is, your investment is worth every dime. The payout of a solid education is priceless, really. Again, not product specific, but if a kid is going to benefit from going to a school that has a top engineering program because that's their passion... it's worth it. If the family values a university with a religious affiliation, it's worth it.
Currently, I'm reading Nicholas Kristof's novel, Half the Sky. The book is about women in the world (or half the sky/population) and how much better a place the world would be if women were treated equally and able to share themselves with the world. If you haven't heard of it or read it, pick it up. Today. I was fortunate enough to see him speak at Saint Mary's last year about his experiences and travel around the globe meeting women. It was just heartbreaking and inspiring, all at the same time, much like his book. What's the connection? Right now he's describing some of the conditions in Arab nations and the brutality that women experience---and how the tolerate and come to believe they should receive it---because they are uneducated. And I mean UNEDUCATED. No elementary school. Nothing. Crushing. Here are women who are brutally raped and maimed because they are women and have no voice and no one to protect them. The book is not all heartbreak though as Nicholas brilliantly shows how some women have risen above against all odds---those who have been educated.
It is a hard book to read, but an even harder book to put down. It makes you feel helpless but inspired. I know that the work we are doing at Girls on the Run is such a smaller scale with very different circumstances... but it is still educating young girls on what is acceptable and what is not. I love to see the areas of my life interweave... and I feel like this is all happening as I prepare to begin leadership training with my seniors. Education at a much higher, intricate level, but an education that will hopefully serve them well as they embark on their careers, start families and become social entrepreneurs.
This blog is for Kris. Thank you for lending me your book. I finally got to it...and I'm sure I'll need to buy my own copy. :)
December 1
So I actually had a lot of things to say today after an inspiration draught, but then I headed out on my run. Those thoughts will have to be put on hold. It was a gorgeous day as far as South Bend December weather goes... .sunny...almost 40 and none of the white stuff on the ground. I ran down Angela and along the river until I made my way into downtown South Bend. I was loving the run...feeling free. The lungs were stinging just a little bit with the chill and then I was reminded of why I'm training... what I'm running for.
On one of the corners downtown a mother (assuming) and two young children were walking along the sidewalk. The little boy looked to be 2 or 3 years old. The little girl appeared to be 5 or 6. In my 20 odd seconds of bypassing, the mother yelled at the little girl---loud enough so you could hear her all too easily. She made some wise remark to the little girl, who probably asked what seemed like a very reasonable question to a 5 year old. Then the mother bent down to her level and (still) in a loud voice asked her if she was deaf and repeated what she had said before... that should could not do X because...
This momentary scene stung. I wish I could have done something for the girl. Defended her against her mother. Let her know that she's not worthless or a bother or... deaf. This instance reminded me why I am running this marathon for Girls on the Run though. For girls like this 5 year old, who have been taught at an early age that they are in the way... that their voice doesn't count... and they should not stand up for themselves. These are the girls that we hope to give scholarships so that they can discover that what is on the inside does count---even if 'the most important' people in their lives to that point might not believe it. These are the girls that Girls on the Run will help find their voices so they can stand up for what they believe.
I'm pretty sure at this point I picked up the pace. 6.6 miles. Check.
On one of the corners downtown a mother (assuming) and two young children were walking along the sidewalk. The little boy looked to be 2 or 3 years old. The little girl appeared to be 5 or 6. In my 20 odd seconds of bypassing, the mother yelled at the little girl---loud enough so you could hear her all too easily. She made some wise remark to the little girl, who probably asked what seemed like a very reasonable question to a 5 year old. Then the mother bent down to her level and (still) in a loud voice asked her if she was deaf and repeated what she had said before... that should could not do X because...
This momentary scene stung. I wish I could have done something for the girl. Defended her against her mother. Let her know that she's not worthless or a bother or... deaf. This instance reminded me why I am running this marathon for Girls on the Run though. For girls like this 5 year old, who have been taught at an early age that they are in the way... that their voice doesn't count... and they should not stand up for themselves. These are the girls that we hope to give scholarships so that they can discover that what is on the inside does count---even if 'the most important' people in their lives to that point might not believe it. These are the girls that Girls on the Run will help find their voices so they can stand up for what they believe.
I'm pretty sure at this point I picked up the pace. 6.6 miles. Check.
Friday, November 18, 2011
Dream-- Panic
Last night I dreamed that I was running my marathon (but it wasn't Boston's course) and I ran off the course. I was on pace to run a sub 3:10 with 2 miles to go. Then in my dream I saw the other runners on the course but the race staff was not letting me get back into the race to finish! because they thought I cut the course (which I didn't). I watched the other runners finish. Devastated. And then I woke up. In a panic.
I still have 37 days until my actual "training" starts. If this is a preview of what's to come... I'm in trouble.
I still have 37 days until my actual "training" starts. If this is a preview of what's to come... I'm in trouble.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Transitions... Part Two
This past weekend probably makes the books as one of the top five best trips with a team since I've been coaching. On our packing list along with extra socks and gloves was: enthusiasm, a positive attitude and the fun(k). (Either is acceptable). And the team delivered! The ride there was fun--the energy was high and the mood was right. Come race day, I couldn't have asked for a better showing at the end of the season. We hit some awesome lifetime PR's---and some very close to them. Not everyday can be a PR day---but it was spectacular!
Before we began, I shared a prayer with the team that was written by a colleague at Saint Mary's. Her words were so fitting for our team, and I want to share those words here...
Before we began, I shared a prayer with the team that was written by a colleague at Saint Mary's. Her words were so fitting for our team, and I want to share those words here...
Lord, help us to remember that nothing is going to happen today that we cannot handle together.
May there be a peace and grace within us, and may we trust that we are exactly where we are meant to be.
You have blessed us, God, with the gift of friendships, true friendships, and we thank you for that blessing.
May your love continue to be above us, for strength... beneath us, for support...
before us, for guidance...and behind us, for protection.
As we go out today, remind us that we do not go alone.
As we go out, remind us that we go with a mission.
As we go out, fill us with love, hope, and peace to share with the world.
Amen
Upon returning from our trip, I felt many things. Excited, happy, sad, nostalgic, and thankful for the chance to share such wonderful memories with this team. I look at the women I coach and am constantly smiling. I love to see what this team has brought to each of them---and what each of them has brough to the team.
So my transition period continued on Sunday as I attended the Girls on the Run Michiana 5k for our two current sites: Christ the King and North Point. I loved that these two events took place in the same weekend, because it was such a visualization of the direction of where these little girls are headed because of an organization like Girls on the Run. It will provide them with the opportunity to become the strong, bold, loving college women that I have the honor to work with on a daily basis--and make a positive impact in our world.
The 5k was a blast! I was able to 'borrow' a buddy for the race. Here is this young spirit, full of enthusiasm and pushing the boundaries of her little body. She was spectacular with her cheeks flushed from working hard---and so polite along the way, thanking me everything I affirmed her actions. It was spectacular to see the 25 girls, finishing at their own pace, and in their own fashion. As I cheered them in to the finish, I loved the look on their faces---some happy, some straining, some looking like one more step might be too many. Once they crossed the line though--they all shared the expression that makes running so pure--Elation! The sense of accomplishment that comes from crossing that finish line---whether it is their first 5k or someone's 20th marathon---it's always the same. You see it in their eyes:
Pride. Joy. Awe....Relief!
This is why we run.
This is why Girls on the Run is a great gift to give to someone.
It enables young girls to work hard and see their efforts come to fruition through that finish line
(and oh ya...they learn a bunch of amazing things about themselves along the way...)
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Transitions
Today is a weird mix of emotions. When I woke up the 'feel like' temperature was 23 degrees. Not exactly the 60 degree sun from merely a day ago. Today was also the first official day of snow---a mix of large fluffy flakes, pellets and wet snow has been coming down on and off this afternoon. I almost thought we would make it through the entire cross country season without seeing the white stuff. No dice.
We embark on our journey to Oberlin tomorrow for the NCAA Great Lake Regional. It is always inspiring to see the girls compete, and I know that this Saturday will be as exciting as ever. Today also marks the last day of practice for the team for the 2011 cross country season (unless we have an individual qualify for the national meet but it will be the last team practice for the team). The week that lies ahead is definitely one of my least favorite weeks of the year. It's transitioning to the post-season, aka the 'off season.' I hope I can take their energy and use it towards the beginning of my own training.
I will keep the words of Dr. Seuss in mind as the transition begins...
I'm so thankful for this season. I am so thankful for being able to work with hard-working, determined, hilarious, and overall just amazing group of women. All the tears that will inevitably flow are all a reflection of a thousand things going 'right' this year.
We embark on our journey to Oberlin tomorrow for the NCAA Great Lake Regional. It is always inspiring to see the girls compete, and I know that this Saturday will be as exciting as ever. Today also marks the last day of practice for the team for the 2011 cross country season (unless we have an individual qualify for the national meet but it will be the last team practice for the team). The week that lies ahead is definitely one of my least favorite weeks of the year. It's transitioning to the post-season, aka the 'off season.' I hope I can take their energy and use it towards the beginning of my own training.
I will keep the words of Dr. Seuss in mind as the transition begins...
"Don't cry because it's over. Smile because it happened."
I'm so thankful for this season. I am so thankful for being able to work with hard-working, determined, hilarious, and overall just amazing group of women. All the tears that will inevitably flow are all a reflection of a thousand things going 'right' this year.
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Monday, November 7, 2011
Fabulous Fall
One would never had imagined that it was November 7th. The air feels more like an early September morning run--fresh yet cool on your skin. It was our last regular season Monday morning practice today. I am so impressed by how well the girls handle the demanding season and early mornings. They nailed a 5x1000 workout this morning, which was the motivation to get out there myself today.
I ran the riverside loop and saw the newly paved roundabout on Angela. There was no agenda for the run, just get a solid run in. It's amazing what the legs will do when you let them do anything. My legs had their own agenda, and they decided to roll. Before I knew it, I was clicking off 7:20's and wondering how long it would last. I reflected back to my last training schedule when doing this pace would have been a mental headache--here's to being (hopefully not too) optimistic that I'm in better shape this year than for last spring.
Despite the lack of sleep, today's going to be a good day.
I ran the riverside loop and saw the newly paved roundabout on Angela. There was no agenda for the run, just get a solid run in. It's amazing what the legs will do when you let them do anything. My legs had their own agenda, and they decided to roll. Before I knew it, I was clicking off 7:20's and wondering how long it would last. I reflected back to my last training schedule when doing this pace would have been a mental headache--here's to being (hopefully not too) optimistic that I'm in better shape this year than for last spring.
Despite the lack of sleep, today's going to be a good day.
"Decide that you want it more than you are afraid of it." -Bill Cosby
Happy Monday!
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Going back...
This past May I made the trip back to Traverse City for the Bayshore Marathon. It was a great day and I was fortunate enough to re-qualify for the Boston Marathon. Not feeling satisfied with my 2007 run at Boston, I decided it was time to go back and seek redemption on Heartbreak...
with two missions!
First: To run as a SoleMate for Girls on the Run Michiana. By being a SoleMate, I am raising funds for my local Girls on the Run council, which will provide local girls the opportunity to get involved in the program. I am sure along the way I will share more about GOTR, but to get an idea about what GOTR is all about, feel free to check out: http://girlsontherunmichiana.org/
If you feel like helping my cause, please check out my fundraising link:
http://www.active.com/donate/michianasolemates/jbauters
Second: To run a PR and hopefully achieve my larger goal running a 3:0...something marathon in my 30th birthday year.
Can I do it? If you think I can--I can use your support!
with two missions!
First: To run as a SoleMate for Girls on the Run Michiana. By being a SoleMate, I am raising funds for my local Girls on the Run council, which will provide local girls the opportunity to get involved in the program. I am sure along the way I will share more about GOTR, but to get an idea about what GOTR is all about, feel free to check out: http://girlsontherunmichiana.org/
If you feel like helping my cause, please check out my fundraising link:
http://www.active.com/donate/michianasolemates/jbauters
Second: To run a PR and hopefully achieve my larger goal running a 3:0...something marathon in my 30th birthday year.
Can I do it? If you think I can--I can use your support!
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