I just felt like runnin...

It's been a while...

2006-10-05T15:09:00.000-07:00

since I've POSTED about running. Honestly, I've been running.

Today I ran Otter Trail with my 6 month old puppy, Valena. This was the second time I took her out. She did MUCH better this time.

She wanted to take off and chase the birds, but I tightened up on her leash and yelled "heel!" she did. I could tell that it bothered her when cars were coming up behind us, because she couldn't seem to make up her mind just how close she wanted to run along side me. As soon as the car would pass she relaxed and jogged happily at my side.

It is a nice day for running. Chilly fall weather with a hint of rain misting in the air. I loved it. Tonight I report for work, but I'll be back by tomorrow morning and perhaps I'll run again.

I just finished eating my lunch. Leftover beef stew. Yum! I ate it as I read my runners magazine. Can you believe Lance Armstrong is going to run in the ING New York Marathon this Nov. 5th? Yep, he is. He actually thinks he's gonna win even though he's NEVER run more than 11 miles at one time. HA! Even I've done more than that. Not that'd win, hell no!
I actually hope he doesn't. He doesn't need to ego boost. His head is already big enough to park a 747 in it.

It hurts without you by my side

2006-07-01T10:45:00.000-07:00

I've had the last 3 days off and today is the 4th. I finally got my lazy butt outside to run. I'm such a wimp in the summer. I'm not a morning person by nature and if I wait to long, it's too hot to run. Actually Megan has early morning swim team practice, so I've been going to that instead of running. However, today is Saturday...no practice. BTW- I have done some running and not writing posts about it.

Did I mention that I'm home?

I'm also torn between two VERY DIFFERENT worlds. My job as a mother and my new career as a flight attendant. I love them both.

Of course my family comes first, but does that mean I can't do both? How am I going to do both without moving my family to Fresno? What is best for everyone? Cool is...well, COOL! and I don't want to leave here.

I set out this morning with all these things weighting heavily on my mind.

I ran Otter Trail and the route felt like an old friend. Nah, more like an old drill sergeant. However, it was easier than last year. I've dropped some weight since last year, so I guess that helps.

My mind wondered.

WHAT DO YOU WANT ME TO DO?

I waited for an answer.

He said softly... You wanted to fly. I let you fly.

BUT LORD, I DON'T WANT TO STOP...NOT YET!

He replied...loosen your grip, kathy. Would you let it go for me? I'm not telling you to quit, but would you for me?

I almost stopped in my tracks. I wasn't sure. I thought this is where God had brought me. I believed this is where He put me...and He has, it's true.

With a pain in my heart, I reluctantly whispered...yes Lord.

Teach me to keep you first. You've never let me down and your way is always right, especially when I don't understand it. I know you'll work this all out. I trust in your light. Show me the open doors and give me the desire to walk through them.

Still going

2006-06-20T01:11:00.000-07:00

You probably think that because I haven't been posting my runs, I must NOT be running?

Wrong. I'm still running. Maybe not as much as before...well, definately not as much as before..., but I get out there from time to time. The other day I did 5 miles on the treadmill in LA. I hope to run again tomorrow. Right now it's after 1am and I'm beat.
I did 5 flights today and I need my rest.

See ya folks.

BTW- I did a great job today. See the smile on my face? Oh yeah baby...it's there alright!

May 28th

2006-06-01T11:17:00.000-07:00

I woke up in my room in Fresno and decided to run.

I wanted to run a long way. The weather outside was perfect.

I don't know the area very well yet, so I made up my mind to go run around some nearby houses.

The area I live in is very upscale. David's house (flight attendant I'm renting from) is located in a new subdivision right across the street from a very nice golf course. MB will like that. Next to that is another subdivision in which a manmade lake was formed to give residents waterfront property and a reason to own a boat.

I'm guessing it's about 2 miles around it. I ran around it twice.

Total mileage for this day was about 6 miles. Took me 1 hour.

Boy, I tell ya....It sure felt GOOD to run.

When I got back, I packed my stuff and left for work...a 3 day trip.

I'm still finding it difficult to run while I'm in a hotel. Work makes me very tired. Most days are 12 hours duty times.

Strange thing to report...I'm still losing weight. Don't really know why. I am eating!
Stress? Perhaps...

Obstacles

2006-05-27T11:21:00.000-07:00

I haven't been able to run all week! So many reasons...good ones, but still- I hate this.

Here are my reasons...

1. working.
2. visit with parents
3. sick (had the flu)
4. on reserve

Today I feel better, but I'm on reserve...which means I need to stay by the phone until 4pm. If they don't call, I'll go running tonight. This is the first week all year that I haven't run even one mile. I need to figure out a way to keep up my training. Work is exhausting, but fun.

Perhaps I'll do some writing on Annie. Yeah, that sounds good :-)
I've got a few ideas I should jot down...

Nebraska

2006-05-20T06:39:00.000-07:00

Hello happy runners!

I'm in Lincoln, Nebraska. My hotel room overlooks the University and the big football stadium.

I went for a nice run this morning all around the campus and downtown. I saw a bird with a broken leg, another runner with a shirt on that said NEBRASKA on the front. It rained a bit. Perfect weather. Not to hot...a bit chilly in fact. The university is out right now, so this place is pretty much a ghost town.

I ran past a Catholic Church and a BIG Mormon temple that was right across the street. Man, those Mormons just go way overboard, I think. And what's with that man as a hood ornament at the top of the temple? Where's the cross?

Anyway...It was a fun little run. I ran for about 45 minutes, so that was probably about 5 miles.

On the way back, I noticed a farmers market going on. So I went down there and checked it out. I found a couple things I liked. Now all I need is a shower and I'll go back down there to purchase it.

Hmmm.....I think like Nebraska.

BTW- I did run a 3 mile treadmill at the hotel in Freso the other day. Nothing exciting to report about that, except that I did it.
:-)

2 more home

2006-05-14T13:29:00.000-07:00

Did I write about the run to Hidden Gold the other day? No?

Well I did. I ran the 5 miles to Hidden Gold on Friday morning. It was harder than usual. I need to up the incline when I do treadmill runs. My body is relaxing from the decrease in hills. Can't have that!

Today I ran Westville and Pointed Rocks. Pretty easy and felt good in the early hours. My left shin did start hurting in the second mile, but soon faded and all was well again.

I thought about how badly I wanted to fly. So many times I've wished I could run so fast that my feet would leave the ground. Fear stops me sometimes. No, I should say it slows me down. It's nothing but drag. Shake it Kathy...and let your imagination take you to the places you've created in the small narrow cracks of your dreams.
They are there...waiting for you to visit. Yes, I talk to myself. Call me crazy if you wish, but crazy lives on the brink of genius.

You know what I want right now? Peech pie. Doesn't that sound good? It does to me.

Eugene, Oregon

2006-05-10T23:07:00.000-07:00

Sunday I did a 4 mile hike with my dad and Megan...does that count? Sure, why not!

Now back to our regularly scheduled post.

Eugene.

Monday night I found myself walking with my crew down a long musty smelling hallway. The wheels on my rollarboard left 2 long tracks on the freshly vacuumed bright green carpet.

The room was much nicer than I expected. I can't tell you where we stayed. It's a secret. But it was nice. Our layover was 14 hours. That meant I got to sleep in...but I didn't. I was up at 7am. I was out running by 7:30.

The air was crisp with just enough chill to warrant a sweatshirt. After a mile I was wishing I had not worn the sweatshirt. I ran 3.5 miles along a wide, beautiful river. I wish I knew the area better so I could have run longer. It felt sooooo good to stretch my legs and fill my lungs with fresh clean air. I learned something new about myself. I get airsick. Great time to find that out! Luckily the hotel had some dramamine and I was fine for the next few flights. I just gotta get used to this flying deal.

It's been 1 month since I left for initial training. I've lost about 5 pounds. I don't get much chance to eat. I need to learn how to pack food for several days at a time. I think I've lost muscle from not running as much. Bummer. I'd rather keep the muscle and lose the baby fat.

I'm home now for just a little while. This up coming week should be interesting. I have to find a place to live in Fresno and figure out how I'm going to come home on days off. Also I need to make sure all is well at home. My dad has been here the whole time and I appreciate him so much! I'll always be my daddy's little girl.

Friday run at home

2006-05-06T00:06:00.000-07:00

Wow.

What a difference. In Utah I didn't run any hills. I either ran through the downtown area or on the treadmill.

This evening I was able to get out and run to SECOND GATE.

It was like running it for the first time. My stomach got all achy and I sweat a ton! The sun was shining, which made it pretty toasty, but I didn't mind at all. The sun felt good.

The hills were a little challenging.

I found myself reciting announcements as I bounced along with praise music pouring out my headphones. I waved at James, who looked surprised that I was home.

I can tell it's going to take me some time before I am back to half marathon ability. I certainly hope I can keep it up. Running is NOT something I am willing to give up on right now...or ever. I truly love it. I am hoping to run events on layovers. Here's hoping!

treadmill

2006-05-01T22:20:00.000-07:00

I ran on the treadmill today and practiced my announcements at the same time. For some odd reason, that helps. It must be the extra oxygen pumping to my brain.

Who knows...I'm just glad it works.

For the record, 5 miles today. Oh, and Saturday I ran 4 miles, did sit ups and arm weights. Ah...feels great!

Not enough time!!!

2006-04-28T22:08:00.000-07:00

I'm so upset about my running log.

Since my accident last week, I have only run once and that was on the treadmill for 3 miles. No big deal. I feel fine to run, but I just haven't had the chance.

I know that sounds like an excuse. However, between training and homework and practicing announcements...I simply fall down dead tired every night. I've lost 3 pounds since I've been here. I think I've lost muscle from a severe cut in mileage. My appetite seems to be increasing, but I'm NOT overeating.

I make sure to get a good breakfast (eggs & sausage) because that's when I seem to be able to perform the best in class. Lunch is light...usually a half a sandwich and tomato soup, if I have it.

For dinner, I like cereal. No dessert....except for the night when I had 4 cookies. That might have something to do with my passing out the next morning, but the silly doctor didn't get a sugar reading on my blood. That reminds me...my blood test only revealed that my iron level was pretty low. Here's a bit of trivia I heard on the radio one morning as I was getting ready...'Desserts' is 'Stressed' spelled backwards. Hmmm...

Tomorrow we don't start class until 3:30pm. I can actually sleep in!!! Yippee! I hope to get up and go for a run! Then I can finish my 8 pages of homework.

18th & 19th

2006-04-21T22:02:00.000-07:00

I ran these two days.

On Tuesday the 18th, I ran 5 miles on the treadmill before dinner. Can you believe it...I multi-tasked! I ran, listened to music AND recited my announcements.

On Wednesday the 19th, I ran outside through a much prettier part of downtown Salt Lake to the high school track. I ran only 1 mile around the track, because the sun was going down. It was a 3 mile round trip. Easy, but I did do it fast. I ran back to the hotel and stayed up late doing my homework. I keep underestimating how long the work takes.

I was planning on running today (Friday) but if you read my main blog 'Wavelength' then you know why I didn't.

Time to go ice my head.

Ladies and Gentlemen, at this time...

2006-04-16T23:35:00.000-07:00

I got in 3 miles on the treadmill.

To bad I didn't have more time. I was strong today. I even recited my announcements outloud while I was running. I guess that means I wasn't running at a very challenging pace...but it was set to 5.5. I just never got winded.

Nice.

Dang, I'm tired. Good-night.

3 posts in one

2006-04-14T22:20:00.000-07:00

For the sake of time, I am going to condense my last 3 running days in one concise post.

Salt Lake City, Utah

Tuesday- 6.5 miles
I am staying at a nice hotel in the downtown area. The workout room is 3 steps from my door. But on Tuesday the sun was shining so I decided to go outside for an adventure. At first I thought I would run around the nice grassy park outside my window. Just as I was leaving the hotel, I asked the desk clerk if he thought that was a good idea. He shook his head NO. This city is pretty decent and clean, but there are homeless people everywhere!
I was advised to go down a mile or so to the high school track. I took his advice and did just that. I ran past some tall buildings (Delta Center?) and of course some Mormon churches
At the track I ran 3.5 miles and then back to the hotel. I saw some other interesting things...a big temple in the distance that is under construction...and a bunch of buses. When I got back to the hotel, I was still curious about the workout room so I stepped inside to check it out. In a word...small. I guess they don't have to many guests that want to work out. They have 2 treadmills, one bike and one stairmaster. No free weights at all. That's it.
I hoped on the BIG treadmill and ran for another mile...just for the heck of it.

Thursday- 5 miles
Again it was sunny. No point in running on a treadmill when the sun is shining outside. Now you have to keep in mind...I'm dead tired when I go out to run. I haven't been sleeping well (or at all) and most of my classmates are taking this time to sleep. Yet, I want to run. I like to run. It feels good and wakes me up.
BTW- ALL my classmates are AWESOME people. I am blessed to have such a great group of ladies to train with.
Okay- so I ran to the same place as before because I'm in a city I've never been before...don't want to get lost! However this time I saw a few things that I didn't before. I saw two big eyes painted on the road at both ends of each sidewalk. In front of left eye was the letter 'L'. After the right eye was the letter 'K'. It spelled the word 'LOOK'. It made me smile...I've never seen that in a crosswalk before, but it does make sense.
On the way back, I was stopped at a crosswalk waiting for the light to change when I saw a truck drive by with 2 big black and white dalmations hanging their heads out the passenger window. Not unusual....but then I saw a car turn the corner right in front of me that had a bird for a driver. On the steering wheel sat a big white parakeet bird which appeared to be attempting to steer the vehicle. It was very entertaining.
Once again I noticed the buses. One, two, three, four, five...all lined up. They come and go all the time. Maybe that explains the lack of traffic. The streets here are wide. It makes the city feel spacious and not really like a city.

Friday (today)- 3 miles
After a long day (which turned out good) I ate some cereal, did my homework and headed up to the third floor to study with my class. After that (and talking with MB) a few of us went to the workout room. Andrea, Savanna & I wanted a little exercise. Me and Andrea took the treadmills. Savanna took the bike. Savanna got bored after 5 minutes and left. I stopped after 3 miles...that hot tub outside was calling me. I could see it from my treadmill and knew it would only be available for another hour. I got off and went to my room to get my suit on. When I came back, Andrea was still going.
"Way to go!" I said. "You're past 4 miles!" She smiled. Andrea has the prettiest smile. She will be a wonderful flight attendant. I spent the next 30 minutes relaxing in the outdoor tub while the rain lightly fell on my already wet head. I practiced an announcement. Then Andrea came out and we talked, because that is just what girls do.

Chorizo make me sicko

2006-04-09T18:11:00.000-07:00

A bazillion thoughts are going through my mind. I have a ton of things still left to do and that awful chorizo wants to come up.

Tomorrow I leave for Salt Lake City. Gonna be a flight attendant.

We went to Church and I nearly cried at the thought that next week is Easter and I won't be here. Me in the land of Mormans...on Easter Sunday! Uhhh

Not that I got anything against mormans...except that they're wrong. Poor souls. I know what you're thinking...but Kathy, What if YOU'RE wrong? That is a much longer post for another time. Time is precious. Let's get back to running.

After church I made chorizo and eggs wrapped in a tortilla. Yuck! I hated the chorizo. I'll never eat it again!

What is Chorizo?

Well. it's sausage meat mixed with all sorts of Spanish seasonings. Although, I think there was more than just sausage meat in that mix. It made my stomach queasy.

An hour later I went running. I ran to Hidden Gold. The first mile was horrible! My legs felt like lead weights and my stomach threatened to upchuck that sorry excuse for a meal.

Then I saw something that made me forget about my rock solid legs. It made my heart skip a few beats and nearly sent me jumping into oncoming traffic. It was a snake. A BIG snake! Lucky for me it was dead. I bet it was at least 2.5 feet long. I know, big fish (snake) story, but honestly- it scared the daylights out of me.

After I had a chance to mentally calm down, I thought to myself...At least I'm having a better day than he is.

He just came out of hibernation wanting a little sun to warm his cold blooded body and look what happens! Actually, I don't know what happened to him. He didn't look cut up or squished or anything. Perhaps a car hit him and tossed him to the side of the road. Who knows. I don't like snakes.

I got back from the 5 mile route and nearly threw up. Never, ever, ever again will I eat spicy food and then go running.

Water? Anyone got water? Gum? Ginger ale?

Shine on Me

2006-04-06T13:56:00.000-07:00

Today the sun came out and danced gracefully between the clouds. Everyone seemed to have smile on their face.

I took advantage of the great weather and ran a few different routes. What a day of praise! Last night Katie put her new cd on my itunes. I took a few minutes this morning and added the album to my ipod. I am loving this music! It's a band that Katie saw last weekend at a youth group conference called 'Planet Wisdom.' The band is "By The Tree." I guess they've been around a while, but I had never heard of them.

I had actually planned on running the quarry trail in the canyon, but I could see that the canyon was filled with fog. I decided I'd rather run the road and stay in the sun. I need the vitamin D. Lately I've been feeling depressed. I know that is a symptom when you haven't gotten enough sunlight. I am one of those people whose environment great effects their mood.

Wind makes me mad.

Rain makes me sad.

Sun makes me happy. :-) which is why I'm a hot weather person!

Happiness is a choice you make daily. That choice is just easier on sunny days.

Many clouds filled the sky and once in a while the sun rays would be gone. I felt like I was chasing them. I would see them ahead of me, hitting the ground between the shadows of the clouds. I wanted to be in those sunny places, but it seemed like once I got there, it moved. More than anything, I wanted to be in the Light.
I was going to stop after 4 miles, but first I asked God if He would let the sun come out and shine on me...I'd keep going. From that moment on, the clouds moved and the sun touched my bare shoulders.
I continued on, just as I promised.

I ran Otter Trail, Second Gate and Westville...a total of about 6 miles or so.

I can feel myself healing. I am mending by the touch of your beauty.
How Glorious How Beautiful You are!

Beautiful One I love
Beautiful One I adore
Beautiful One my soul must sing
Because Nothing on Earth is as Beautiful as YOU.

Powerful, Your Glory fills the sky!

Yesterday...Walk and Talk, then run.

2006-04-04T19:16:00.000-07:00

The rain doesn't stop. It mixes with the dirt below my feet, following my steps to the workout room.

Two minutes after I walked through the old dingy door, an older man came in behind me. I recognized him immediately.

"You're the Apple Man." I said with a smile.

"What?"

"The Apple Man...the guy who gets all the newest Apples." I replied.

He looked confused.

It took a few seconds, but then I saw it. I saw that familiar look everyone gets on their face when it finally clicks.

"Oh, computers!"

I remembered talking with this man a couple months ago about Apple Computers. His daughter works for Apple and sends him all the latest technology. Lucky guy...I think I've written about him before.

Anyway- he hopped on the treadmill next to me and the conversation never missed a beat. I could see that he was happy to have someone to talk to (the gym is painfully boring and generally depressing given all the rain we've had). So, I let my earphones dangle against my shirt and walked at 4mph so we could continue our visit.

I told him about my new job and he told me about how women and men used to need a good medical reason for not wanting anymore children. Yep, you had to have a medical review board approve the procedure of getting your tubes tied or a vasectomy.

Confused?
Yes, I know those two subjects don't really go together...and I'm sure you're wondering how we could have gotten onto that subject...but I've noticed with older people, any subject is possible.

After a while he was done with his dose of exercise (which I praised his efforts for doing) and he left. I had walked 2.5 miles. I put in my headphones and upped the speed.

I ran 4 more miles.

Running when the sand runs out.

2006-04-01T11:43:00.000-08:00

Realizing that this might be the last Saturday of freedom for a while, I got up and ate my cereal.

I fretted over which running clothes to wear because it's raining outside...again. Normally I would just go to gym, but not today. I'm so sick of that place and when I go to training, I will be lucky to see the inside of a gym (meaning if I can get my tired butt into one).

This job is one more thing in my life that I'm starting. I know. I'm moderately concerned that I am taking on too much. However, I know myself. I am determined to accomplish all that I have dreamed of. It just might take me a while. How much time do I have?

The rest of my life.

How long is that?

Could be 50 years, 5 years or 1 day. Who knows.

Taking this joyous opportunity, I ran to third gate and back. It doesn't matter that I have been sick the last 2 days. It doesn't matter that I haven't been reaching my weekly mileage goals and it doesn't matter that it's raining...I want to run.

The rain felt good. Lucky for me, it didn't rain very hard. I was glad to have my water bottle with me cause my throat hurt several times and being able to take a sip calmed the fire within it.

Many times I wanted to stop. Does it ever get easy?

Just as I was running by my friend, Jen's house, I passed another runner. We waved and smiled at each other, both of us understanding the other's pain. He was reaching the top of his hill and I was just about to go down it.

After I made the turn at third gate and was about 3.5 miles from home, I passed the same runner again. He had a big smile on his face. I got the feeling he was also running for endurance today. Again we knoded and said "hey". He had just finished running down the biggest hill on this route and I was just about to go up it.

I understood why he was smiling. I smile too when I reach that part of the route. The view coming down from that hill is amazing. At that point you're ready to take on the world. In that moment, nothing can stop you.

Even if I die tomorrow...running is worth it. The title of this post is one of my favorite songs by my boys, Rascal Flatts. Check it out. However I'm not sure if that's the actual name of the song...but that's not the point.

The point is...you never know when the end is coming. You will have work left undone. But at least you overcame your fear to start it. Perhaps God will give me eternity to finish it.

Slacker

2006-04-01T11:39:00.000-08:00

Yes, I'm slacking off a little bit...GET UP ON YOUR FEET NOW!

I forgot to post my little 3 miles on the treadmill for Wednesday March 29th.
For some reason, blogger won't let me change the dates on these post anymore. Darn.

So there...I did it, now let's get onto todays run.

Rain, rain, go away!

Thunderstorm

2006-03-28T12:30:00.000-08:00

Rainy morning and I have a ton of studying to do. No matter- I'm still going to run.

I put in 4 miles on the treadmill in the workout room.

There's always time for exercise.

No excuses!!!

Nutrition Fuels Fitness

2006-03-28T12:27:00.000-08:00

Race Day was Sunday March 26th.

I will have to come back and write about this more when I have time. Point is I did it! I hung back during the first 2 miles, which was probably a good thing...

My time for this 10k (6 miles) was 52:12.

Blue Sky Holiday

2006-03-22T13:10:00.000-08:00

The weather has been great the last few days. Sunny, not much rain...even the temps seem a little warmer. But I've been sitting on the couch. I've been sleeping there as well.

All I can say is that I'm so glad I got in my 30 miles last week, cause this week it aint happenin. Just as well though since I have a 10k race this Sunday. If anybody happens to be in Elk Grove you're welcome to come cheer me on.

Today I ran Otter Trail and Hidden Gold. 5.5 miles. I felt like hell the first mile. My head was pounding and my leg muscles were so tight that every step made me think I was gonna break the pavement. Out of sync again! I hate this! My head is so full.

Full of worries, full of pain, full of anger.

Where's the zen? Where's the switch that shuts down anxiety? I've misplaced it. Oh Lord, help me find it! Please! You owe me one!

Did I just say that? God owes me one?

Sure, I'm kinda ticked off at God at the moment (life really sucks right now)...but heck, hey doesn't owe me anything. I am the one who's in debt, not him! I can't get through this without help. I have faith. God is good.

New song to ipod- Bad Day by Daniel Powter

Here's part of the song:

You stand in the line just to hit a new low
You're faking a smile with the coffee to go
You tell me your life's been way off line
You're falling to pieces everytime
And I don't need no carryin' on

Cause you had a bad day
You're taking one down
You sing a sad song just to turn it around
You say you don't know
You tell me don't lie
You work at a smile and you go for a ride (replace with RUN!)
You had a bad day
The camera don't lie
You're coming back down and you really don't mind
You had a bad day
You had a bad day

Well you need a blue sky holiday
The point is they laugh at what you say
And I don't need no carryin' on

Sunshine

2006-03-18T11:52:00.000-08:00

What a beautiful Saturday! Couldn't ask for a better one. The sun is out and so was I. Even MB got his grove on and took advantage of this break in the rain.

He ran Paymaster. Good for him.

I knew I needed 4 miles to make it to my 30 miles a week goal. I decided Second gate and Otter trail would get me there.

It was okay as far as runs go...but I was more tired and sluggish today. My legs felt heavy and several times my left shoe brushed up against the inside of my right leg.

Most of all I was happy to be warm. Our heater has been having issues this season. Sometimes the thing only blows cold air while other times it just doesn't come on at all. This morning it was 60 degrees in the house. I didn't like that! To cold for me. My fingers and toes turn into popsicles in two minutes. It felt warmer standing outside in the sun. I love the sun. The sun and I are friends.

On the way back around Otter Trail, I saw 2 boys standing on the corner. I recognized them right away. Tyler and Alex. Tyler lives just up the street and has a huge crush on Katie. Alex is one of Katie's best friends. Tyler held a football in his hand. They were obviously going to the field to play. Katie ignores Tyler. It's sad really. I feel terrible for Tyler, but he is very pushy and I can see why she does it.

As I passed I said, "hi boys." They said hi back and Alex, being the funny guy that he is, decided to run along side me.
"You gonna run with me?" I asked. "Well, c'mon then."

They made sure to keep a few steps ahead of me so they could say, "we can run faster than you." I had a perfectly good come back with, "Yeah, let's see if you could keep that up for another 12 miles."

"Your running 12 miles today?" asked Alex. "No, I did that the other day...today is a four."

They were impressed. I felt proud.

"Dang, that's a long way." replied Tyler. We hadn't even gotten to the field parking lot when they decided to stop and turn around. I waved and said good-bye.

Before I cranked back up my ipod, I heard Tyler's voice yell out..."Say hi to Katie for me!"

30 minutes later both of them showed up at my door wanting to know if Katie could come down to the field and play. Katie wasn't interested. Which is fine, cause we have a rule in our house that she can only to the park or field if she has at least one other girl with her. Sometimes she is very happy with our rules. This was one of those times.

Workout Company

2006-03-17T10:15:00.000-08:00

More dark clouds filled the morning skies. You know what that means. Yep, the treadmill. I can't risk getting caught in a hail storm. I think if the temps were a little warmer, I'd try running outside...but that nip in the air feels like trouble.

After dropping off the kids at school, I headed back to first gate and parked in front of the workout room. Even before I started walking up the stairs to the door, I noticed it. There is half of a white frame mounted around the door. What is that? I wondered. Holy Crap! It's a screen door! The heavens are shining down on me!! I'll be able to keep the door open now on those warmer spring days when it's pouring to hard outside for running. Yippee!! That was thoughtful. I would have kept it open today, except I wasn't alone in the room today.

When I got there, a man was using the arm weights. I said my "hellos" and jumped on the treadmill. Right away I got back off to retie my shoes. I can never get my shoelaces at just the right tightness. The man (who appeared to be just a little older than me) told me a couple stories of his more embarrassing mishaps with shoelaces and treadmills.

I didn't want to be rude- so I kept my ipod earbuds out for a little while. Just as I was reaching my second mile, he left and I was alone. I cranked up the tunes.

Then it hit me. I'm not wearing green! That butt ugly painting in front of me was the thing that triggered my memory. It's St. Patricks Day. Not that it matters much to me. I'm not Irish...and I don't drink beer.

Today's Workout- 5 miles. 4 intervals of speedwork. My mph bounced around like crazy so I won't go into the grueling details. My first interval was 800meters. The other 3 were 400 meters. All were done at about a 75% effort.
My time was 52 minutes. I went pretty slow inbetween intervals.

Also, I started getting a strange pain in my right calf in the last mile. Kinda like my blood vein was gonna pop. Hmmm....it feels fine now.

Wavelength down

2006-03-17T08:19:00.000-08:00

To all my Wavelength readers...sorry. Blogger is having troubles. If they get it fixed today you can read a new poem I wrote last night.

Hang in there...I'm sure you'll catch my wave soon.

THIS JUST IN...WAVELENGTH IS BACK. GO CHECK OUT MY POEM NOW. Wait!!! I take that back. First read today's running post, THEN- go read the poem.

hehe.

Hitting the wall at 11 and then climbing over it to 12

2006-03-15T11:58:00.000-08:00

The weather here lately is unpredictable. Yesterday my kids stayed home because the school called a snow day. I wasn't able to run, so instead I took Megan out shopping for her mission project.

This morning the sun was shining. My smile stretched so wide! School is in and I am free to run as far and as long as I want!

Yippee!!!

I put on my new running shirt that I bought yesterday (gotta love Target). I also decided to keep the water bottle I bought at the running store even though some of it is red (lions like red).

I set out with the goal of third gate. Ironically, I ended up going a longer distance, but never fully reached the third gate. On Sweetwater I came to Secret Lake Trail. Usually I just go right on by, but today I felt like I should turn left here and run it the crazy way. Uphill. So I did.
All the rain we've gotten lately caused this one little stream to gush like a river...with a big waterfall and everything. It was beautiful. In fact, I saw a several places like that. I also saw an old valentine marlar balloon snagged in an old tree. Hmm. I guess that's what happens to old balloons that get away from you.

I was running slow (it sure seemed), but I made it up that crazy kill kathy hill without stopping. Having the water bottle made the run seem harder. It put weight in my hand and I didn't like that one bit. However, by the time I got home I was very happy to have taken it. Tim (the guy at the running store) told me to take a sip every 10 minutes. He said it will really help with recovery and when I "hit the wall".

I ran past Denise's house and Marley barked at me (her dog). Denise- if you are reading this...I'm sorry I didn't stop to say howdy. I have no excuse except that I felt pressed to keep going and not stop yet.

Back on Sweetwater, I didn't see the point in turning left just to run a few more steps to reach third gate...so I turned right and ran up a small hill to the stop sign at Gulch ?? Oh, I forgot the name...anyway- I felt another compelling urge to turn left and do this loop too. I know this street turns into Cascade and goes by Thea's house. When I got to Thea's house I really debated as to whether or not I should stop. I even ran a little ways past before turning around and going back. I haven't seen Thea in a long time and I just knew in my heart that I should check in with her.

As I was making my way up her very steep driveway, I hoped that I would see her van. I did! Great, she's home. I also saw their new big truck with all four doors open. Hmmm. I saw some legs and assumed it was Ron. He shut the door just as I was standing behind it. I scared him half to death!

I apologized, but really I thought it was very funny. We talked a little bit and I asked if Thea was home. He said yes, but that she's having a terrible migraine today and is resting in bed. I've seen Thea with one of those headaches before...and I've had them myself. I feel awful for her.

I left, wishing I had remembered to tighten the laces on my shoes. O'well...I've already started running again. I'm not stopping for laces unless they come undone completely.

I only stopped for maybe 5 minutes, but it that was enough to throw my rhythm off. Just before making the turn back onto American River Trail, Ron drove by and honked. I think he was trying to pay me back for scaring him. I waved and sort of laughed. Serves me right.

In the last mile before my house, I felt my body wanting to stop. Everything hurt and I was running out of steam. I sucked down my water like it was a baby bottle, hoping it would get me over this wall. It did. I didn't stop, but overdrive didn't seem to exist today. I ran normal pace and almost fell down after crossing my finish line. I would guess I ran about 12 miles??

Ah hell...what a great day it was for a run!!!!

Double Dose

2006-03-11T19:04:00.000-08:00

It was supposed to snow all day. Not the case. Instead of snow, we had sun. Ohhhh, I was so happy to be running outside. If only my stride could have reflected the inside. However, harmony was not in the cards...at least not on today's first run. That's right, today I ran twice.

I had a hard time getting my body in sync. My legs and arms felt off. My breathing was labored and my eyes kept falling to the ground. I really had to concentrate on lifting my head UP. UP, Kathy! LOOK UP!!

I attribute this poor form to the treadmill. I think that workout room is a bad influence on me. But, to my credit, if you had nothing to look at but that atrocious painting, you'd be hanging your head too!

I ran Otter Trail and Second gate for a first route distance of 4 miles. It was awkward. I seemed to fumble through the whole thing. This made me mad. Finally- I get outside only to mess it up.
The sun may have been out, but the temperature was cold. I wore my long sleeved running shirt and gloves. I finally started to thaw out as I was coming up the big hill on Otter trail. All of a sudden the gloves had changed from being a blessing to being a hindrance. So I took them off and carried them rest of the way, dangling in my left hand.

When I neared my finish line, I considered going further, but decided that probably wouldn't help. That's when I had a great idea.

I'll just try again later. Why not?

So I did. At 5:00 o'clock in the evening, I left my house for another run. The second time was much better as far as body and mind synchronization. I only ran another 2-3 miles, but it was a nice run. I did the Pointed Rocks and Westville loop. The sun was setting. The clouds were big and round. Some were white as snow while the rest were smaller with varying shades of grey.

It was a lovely sight. I've seen it brighter on other nights...nights that fill the sky with orange, pink and purple. This evening streaked with a blaze of blue, grey and white. It was different, but beauty has many forms.

My second run was smooth. It was satisfying and I'm glad I took another bash at it.

If the weather is nice tomorrow...I'll try third gate.

Thursday March 9th Treadmill

2006-03-10T13:35:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I ran 5 miles on the treadmill. I also worked on my arms and did 100 situps. 50 upper abs and 50 lower abs.

Today my schedule got a bit messed up because I went to a friends candle party during workout time.

I plan on doing a light jog tomorrow and then a nice 10miles on Sunday. At least...that's the plan. We'll see. Life Happens.

What do I say? Nothing, just don't stop.

2006-03-07T19:24:00.000-08:00

I stepped outside and lifted my head to the sky. Another big, dark, shadowy cloud hang above me. I considered the risk. Run in the rain...or go to the gym. Maybe it won't rain. Yeah, right!

I remained optimistic. I left my ipod and water bottle at home, thinking I might actually get to run outside. By the time me and the girls got to first gate, it was pouring.
I dropped off the girls at school and headed back home. Okay- so I accepted defeat. With ipod in hand, I drove back down to first gate where the gym is. Hey- at least I have access to a nearby workout room! I am grateful for that.

I started out on the treadmill I usually favor, but after just a half a mile I sensed it wasn't going as fast as it should be. So I stopped the machine and got on the one next to it...much better. I finished up my run with 3.5 more miles, which included 3 intervals. On each interval I increased speed to 7mph for one lap (400 meters).

A friend of mine came in while I was running. Tanya doesn't like to talk during workouts, so we got along perfect. I sailed on through listening to my ipod and she waved good bye when she was done.

Self disciple is hard to do.

2006-03-06T19:00:00.000-08:00

I can be proud of myself today. I got much done.

It started with helping Katie carry her closet sized wardrobe box up to her classroom in the rain. Some of the gold paint got on my running gloves and jacket...I hope it comes out.

After that I went straight to the workout room. 6 miles and a little over an hour later, I stretched and worked my legs. I passed up working on my arms due to a pain I've been feeling in my left shoulder. I set the pace a little slower today. I had a couple reasons for this.
1. I have a tendency to start off to fast which makes me loss steam later. Naturally I wanted to practice taking it down a notch.
2. Something inside just told me to.

So, what else did I get done today?

Some book writing, some barn painting....the really fun stuff like dishes and laundry (NOT).

Despite the rain, it was a good day.

Ah yippie yi yu, Ah yippie yi yeah

2006-03-04T16:44:00.000-08:00

I know this is a very cheesy song and by all accounts it should make me sick....but I like it. Sue me.

It's called Dr. Jones by AQUA and it really picked up at the final quarter mile of today's run.

I ran out to the Third Gate. I have a few good reasons for wanting a 10 mile day.

1. NO RAIN TODAY- the weather was chilly but nice.
2. To beat the heck out of my cold virus and send it packing!
3. No time constraints.
4. New shoes.

Now #4 isn't really a plus. I love my new shoes, but taking them out on their second day for 10 miles is not exactly a smart thing to do. They might organize a revolt.

So, how did the run go?

Well, I felt like throwing up twice. My left ankle started hurting in the 6th mile. Then the left knee. Soon I could feel the blister on my right toe puffing up. On my last mile the skin just below my armpit on both arms began stinging. Okay- I'm done complaining. Here are the good things...I didn't stop, I completed the course in 1 hour 45 minutes, I had my music (very grateful for tunes), I didn't get hungry or need a bathroom and I got to take in deep breaths of fresh (real) pine scent.

This is training...and training is hard!

Mostly I thought about the upcoming race. It's just 3 weeks away.

Family running

2006-03-03T18:08:00.000-08:00

Yep, I'm getting the whole family hooked on this running thing.

I signed us up (me, MB & Megan) for a race in late March. The money raised will go to help fight childhood obesity. I am just liking the fact that Megan is thrilled about running in her first race. She will run 800 meters (a half a mile). MB will run a 5k (3 miles) and I will do a 10k (6 miles).

Yesterday I was sick and just laid in bed sleeping all day. Made me feel so incredibly lazy. Today I was tempted to do the same boring thing, but managed to get out in the blustery wind and drive down to the workout room. Since it was another snow day and school was closed, Megan came along.

Megan ran 1/2 mile on the treadmill and walked some. She became very bored once the novelty wore off. Surprise, surprise. I couldn't blame her. I tried to encourage her to explore the other machines, but I didn't want to stop my own workout to help her move the pins and adjust the seats.
Also I had in my headphones and had to keep pulling them out to hear her talking to me. It was a frustrating 5 miles for me. Finally I was done and she was more than ready to go.

I did a little bit of stretching and showed a couple guys that came in how to use the quick speed feature on the treadmill.

Welcome to Resistance

2006-02-28T10:57:00.000-08:00

I gazed outside...tut tut, looks like rain!

conundrum...do I go to the boring workout room or take a chance and head for the hills?

The sky is dark. Even the lamp posts have not shut off yet. The wind is blowing...the heavy dark rain cloud the looms above my head is moving, rather quickly in fact. Perhaps it will blow away and not rain at all?

I want to run at least 5 miles today. The thought of 5 miles on the tedious treadmill forces my face to contort.

My spirit longs for the wild. I need hills! I need fresh air! I need...RESISTANCE!

What the hell...I'm a brave girl.

I left the house and headed down the hill with my sights set on Hidden Gold. I ran past 4 Hispanics doing some yard work. I think one of them said something to me, but I didn't hear it. My ipod was turned up to loud. Given past experience, it's a good thing I didn't catch it.

Going up the hill to Sweetwater, in the same spot I observed a banana peel take months to degrade, I discovered yet ANOTHER banana peel. Only this time, the contents with said banana peel remained. One discarded yellow ripe banana replaced the old one. I wonder how long this one will take? Perhaps an animal will want it. Or maybe it might be enough to catch a security guards attention. I doubt it.
Most likely some kid will pick it up and throw it at someone on his way home from the bus. I'm sure that's how it landed in that particular spot to begin with.
I've seen all kinds of things along the road while running...besides fruit I've run past veggies, beer cans, music cds and busted tapes, wrappers, perfume bottles and coins. I would pick it up if I were walking...but I'm running. I hate to carry anything while I'm running.

So I continued with the question of mother natures breakdown in my head. Last night we had some pretty whippy wind rush through.
Around the corner on Sweetwater, I glanced to my right so I could see up a known dirt driveway. This wild vacant lot will be the home of Katie's current teacher by next year. I was looking to see if his house was under construction yet. Nope. In fact, you couldn't even get up the driveway right now if you wanted to. The largest branch of the biggest tree had snapped. It was blocking the road.
I wonder if Mr. Wood knows? Hey, that's kinda funny- a tree breaks on his property and his name is Mr. Wood. I guess it's not that funny.

I ran on. The wind is providing some good resistance today. My legs are feeling very heavy and the uphills are difficult. I don't want to stop. My right knee is hurting. I can feel the blister on my right big toe beginning to puff up again, like it has the last 3 times I've run.

A rain drop lands on my face. Another one hits my thigh. Soon I'm lifting my chin to sky in hopes of catching one in my mouth.

I ran past the Hispanics again, not looking at them. I don't like to be gauked at. Call me prejudice...but I swear it happens everytime.

I did the run today in 46 minutes. Good run...Good day.

Forgot to write about Monday...oops.

2006-02-27T11:37:00.000-08:00

MB & I went to the workout room yesterday. He ran 3 miles nonstop. Good for you! He hasn't done that in a long time. Feels good, huh?!?

I ran 4 miles at 6mph. A ten minute mile pace for me. Not bad. I did sweat like a swine in the south though.
I think that's because the people who were using the room before us, had the heater turned up. I don't normally sweat like that.

Then we went home and I made meatloaf for dinner. The smell made me hungry, so I had some for lunch as well.

Workout Room

2006-02-25T20:35:00.000-08:00

This painting is horrible! Can you blame me for wanting to keep the door open? I didn't think so.

Not to shabby, I think.

It's a Passion

2006-02-25T10:27:00.000-08:00

The workout room called me. I woke up this morning a little sluggish, but that's only because I'm not a morning person. In my heart...I wanted to run.

I ate my cereal and started reading my book of training secrets. I flipped to the pages that talk about speed training. I know that interval speed workouts are important...I just needed more info. I had a ton of questions.

Why is it good?
When should I start interval training?
How long should each interval be?
How fast should I go?
How many should I do?
Which is better, treadmill or track?
How long do I rest inbetween intervals?

Luckily, all of my questions had answers.

I decided I would shoot for 3 intervals.

I went to the workout room where I could get an accurate reading of my distance. I warmed up at 5.5 mph for the first mile. Then I jumped to 7.5 for the 2 laps (800 meters or half mile). I slowed to 4.5 the next lap. Then back up to 7.0 the next 2 laps.
I rested for about 1.5 laps going a speed of 5.0mph. Then kicked it into high gear of 8.0 for one lap (400 mph). I tried to watch the clock as I forgot my watch at home, hoping I could do this in 90 seconds. That's what the book said most runners do for a typical speed interval...400 meters in 90 seconds.
I did.
However, in order to keep up- I found myself taking shorter steps...fast little steps with my knees high. It worked.
I turned down the speed to 4.5 and jogged. After a while I turned it up to 7.0 and did 2 laps. Back down to 5.0 and another round of jogging, I decided that was good. I had run almost 4 miles and done 4 intervals...that was fine.

But then a song came on that rocked me. I didn't want to stop...instead I wanted to run again!

So up went the speed...5.5, 6.0, 6.5...

Dance, Dance
We're falling apart to half time
Dance, Dance
And these are the lives you'd love to lead
Dance, this is the way they'd love
If they knew how misery loved me

When that song was over...I figured so was my fun...but then the next one rocked me even more!!!

7.0, 7.5, 8.0....8.5!

rhythm is a dancer,
it's a soul's companion,
you can feel it everywhere

Lift your hands and voices
free your mind and join us
you can feel it in the air

Ooh, it's a passion
Ooh, you can feel it in the air
Ooh, it's a passion
Ooh, ooh, ooh, oh

A far away light in the futuristic place we might be,
It's a tiny world just big enough to support the kingdom of one
knowledgeable,
throw away the loneliness and head back down,
I'm going too fast, I'm going too fast

I plunge right on through the office door,
and into the arms of the bottomless negro of love,
suddenly I can't remember,
how to stop, or turn around,

Do I have to get behind myself,
Do I have to turn around before I can point,
I flip 'til I can breathe

Finally I stopped after 5 intervals and 5 miles.

I came home and used my new yoga mat for nearly an hour.

Muddy Funny

2006-02-23T18:32:00.000-08:00

Muddy Leg

Muddy Feet

Quarry Road Trail, 13 miles

2006-02-23T17:15:00.000-08:00

Trail Head, I know the sign reads 1.2 miles, but trust me...it goes on farther.

My lunch

Distance: 5.6 miles each way

Difficulty: Easy

Description: Wide level trail (yeah, right!) offering some of the best scenery in the American River Canyons. Trail is 11.2 miles round trip with several side trails that can be used to create even more challenging loops. Trail intersects twice with the Western States Trail (WST). At 3.5 miles the trail intersects with Brown's Bar Trail. The Quarry Road Trail ends at Maine Bar.

I edited much of the description.

Now you see how easy it is to take wrong turns. Today was no different. I first planned on running just to Brown's Bar, but when I got there, I felt so good that I decided to keep going. This trail was beautiful! Again, I left my camera in the car. I need to get a pack that I can use to carry my camera. One that I don't hate. It drives me crazy to have to carry anything...even water.

Starting time: 11:38am

Today I ran through lots of muddy puddles and hurdled several fallen trees. A couple other trees were to big to hurdle. Those I had to figure out a way around. The trail pretty much followed the river. I can't believe how lovely it is back there. I worried a bit about the animals...but not enough to stop me.

At one point the trail took me right down to the river where I navigated over hundreds of smooth white river rock mixed with dark grey beach sand. A little ways up from there, the trail had been totally wiped out...I mean it was gone. You could see where the large chunk of earth had fallen away. Luckily a small narrow sliver still remained. Just enough to reach the other side.

I passed a few other runners. That made me feel a lot less slow. Perhaps I do have what it takes to run races? We'll see.

When I reached Maine's Bar...I sang along with my music and did a little victory dance. Who cares? Nobody was out there.

A couple minutes later, I started the track back. I crossed back over several small streams that ran across the trail. Twice the stream was kinda large and I had to first step on a rock and then take a nice big leap to clear it. Much of the trail was wet and by the time I got back to the car, I was caked in mud.

Everything was going great and for a first...I thought I might actually NOT go the wrong way. Nope.

With only a little over a mile left to go, I saw a sign that pointed up a small trail and said "Quarry Road Trail". I wasn't sure, but for fear of taking a wrong turn, I got off the nice wide trail and started up the detour. What a mistake! It was VERY rocky, VERY steep and VERY narrow. After a while, I realized this was not right, but I kept going thinking that it would spit me out onto Hwy 49. From there I could just run back down to my car on the paved road.

So I kept going up and up. It got so bad that I couldn't run it. I was hiking and trying very hard not to slip and fall. This wasn't a trail...it was more like a huge rut, sliced up the side of the canyon wall. Then I stopped and took out my headphones. I could hear trucks. At first I thought they were going through the canyon...like I always do, but then I realized they were Quarry trucks. I was on the OTHER side of the quarry and heading back towards ALT. That is NOWHERE near my car!

I got very upset at myself. Mad for taking the wrong trail, mad for not turning back sooner but mostly mad at that stupid trail sign for messing me up and making me stop!

I went back down, running where I could. I slipped and fell, but I caught myself before my butt hit the ground.

It was a 2 mile detour. Back on the right trail, I ran the last mile hard. I always seem to run faster when I get ticked off!

On the bright side, there was a very pretty waterfall on the detour. Plus I got to drink some water and rinse off the salt from my face. Refreshing.

I finished the route at 2:02pm. Total time: 2 hours, 20 minutes. 13 miles. That's a half marathon. I can SOOO do this!

February 21st 4 mile run

2006-02-22T20:52:00.000-08:00

For some unknown reason, my laptop no longer lets me change the date for posting. It's driving me crazy! It happens, because I forget, I wait a day or two before writing a post. I used to just change the date, but now I can't do that unless I use my desktop. O'well. I'll change it later.

Again...Yesterday (Tuesday) I ran Otter trail and Second gate. My best educated guess is 4.? miles. It took 38 minutes. Yeah, I'm getting better folks.

I am really enjoying my running very much. I can't explain how much.

I'm going to register for a 10k next month. Then another 10k in April. However, what I'm really looking forward to is the half marathon I'm going to do in early May.

I have plans. I want to run races. Someday I'd like to be competitive.

Even if my steps are small...they're still moving me forward.

February 20th 5 mile

2006-02-21T08:00:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I wanted to run my 10 miler. Unfortunately my body wanted sleep. I slept in late and didn't get out to run until almost 11:30am. By then I didn't have 2 full hours before MB needed to leave for work. Darn it. It was a nice day too.

I ran to Hidden Gold. There were some patchy spots where the sun doesn't shine on, leaving the road icy and dangerous. I had to really slow down on those parts and watch my step. I crossed the street in front of the big rich house...the one with the funky brick chimney. It was a little sunnier over there.

Just before I got to Hidden Gold, someone honked at me. I looked up and waved. It was Mimi. She is also a runner. She is much more advanced than me, but I'm working on it.

Overall, the run felt good and I was pretty strong. No worries, not much pain.

Snow Covered Land

2006-02-18T10:08:00.000-08:00

As much as I wanted to run in this...I chickened out. Me and my thin California skin. It was just TO COLD for me. Granted, everyone on the east coast would scoff at me. You think THAT'S COLD? Kathy, you have NO IDEA. I'm sure you're right. I'm a wimp and I don't like to be cold. I'm more of a hot weather person. I get cold easily.
But I wasn't going to let this beautiful scene stop me.

I went to the workout room and ran 3 miles on the treadmill. I might have run longer, but MB needed to go into work. That's okay anyway cause I hope to still do my 10 miler tomorrow. It is supposed to snow again...but given how much I enjoy running in the rain, I would like to experience a good snow run as well.

However, I am going to be out late tonight, so who knows?

Shocked for Six

2006-02-16T19:50:00.000-08:00

Hey that sounds like it would make a great name for a band, huh?

Actually I have a very good reason for titling this post that way. Here's why...

It starts with the weather. What the heck happened? We went from high 70's to low 50's! I'm such a wimp! It's freakin cold! Don't let that sun shiny day fool you...

I knew if I ran outside, my fingers would stay frozen for more than half the run and my nose would run longer than that! Phewy!
Besides, my self imposed training schedule says "Work Out Room"

So I hoped on the treadmill and left the door open so I at least can look outside.

After half a mile at 5mph (12 min. mile pace)...I felt like kicking it up a notch. With my nano in my left hand, I touched the up arrow button on the machine. All of a sudden something sparked and the treadmill died! Zip, zero...nada!
I looked down at my ipod to make sure it wasn't fried. Dang! Wouldn't that just suck! I've already killed one ipod...I didn't need to go killing another one.

Thankfully the nano was fine.
So was the treadmill.
I hit the big red START button and all was well again. However it did wipe out what I had already done...and it made me stop for a few seconds. How rude!
I set it on 6mph (10 minute mile) and just left it alone. After 3 miles, I didn't feel very at all tired. I was careful not to drag my feet because everytime I touched the metal bars, I got shocked. Hmm...must be a lot of electricity in the air today.

I ended up doing a nice 6 mile (1 hour) run.

At one point, while I was gazing out the window, a security truck pulled up and pointed to my open door. I wondered if he was going to come up and tell me that I can't leave the door open like that, but he didn't. Good. You'd think they can at least point one of the treadmills toward the big glass window...but the tv is a much better idea. Right. Hear my sarcasm?
I need something real to look at. Right now it's just the tv or that horrible old olive green 70's painting. Wretched!

Real Trails!

2006-02-14T19:30:00.000-08:00

Finally I got up the ovaries to run some real trails. I live 5 minutes away from some of the most challenging trails in the country. This is the place where people come from all over to run 100 mile endurance races.

Last month I bought a book that describes all the canyon hikes. I decided on Stagecoach Trail. However, I read the book wrong. I thought it said 2 miles ONE WAY. It said the first 1/4 mile is uphill, but levels out after that.

I wasn't worried about a quarter of a mile.
But after a while, I started thinking..."hasn't it been a quarter of a mile yet? Dang this trail is kickin my ass!" I tried to remember what the book said about this trail. I didn't see a bench or any blackberry bushes. I saw rocks mixed with red dirt and green patches of grass. But I kept running, up and up and up. Twice I had to walk for a bit, cause it was tiring. My trail ended at a green guard gate on Foresthill road. Hmm. I looked at my watch. It had only been just over 15 minutes since I started. Is that right? Can't be.
I got back down to my car and looked at my book. It was just as I thought. Somehow I missed the turn for Stagecoach Trail. I guess when I got to the quarter mile point, I kept going up instead of making the sharp left turn. Oops. O'well. It made me sweat anyway. Still, I felt like I needed more.
I flipped through the book again and decided on a trail to Lake Clementine.

Just as I was starting out, I met a man named Norm. He looked to be in his mid 60s. He asked me if I was going to hike to the dam. I didn't remember reading about a dam, so I asked how far it was. He said it was only about a mile up the trail. I immediately said "oh, sure...I can do that."
He had a tear in his eye as he described how beautiful the waterfall was. He said it was so wonderful that he'd already hiked to it 4 times this week. That was it...I was hooked.
I thanked him and set off.
I ran for what seemed like more than a mile, over big rocks, down a narrow trail that would land me right in the river if I fell and up a gradual wider trail. I kept going thinking...Where is this paved road he was talking about? And damn, that guy must be in great shape to do this!
I finally got to the paved road. Typical of how this day was going...I accidentally took the wrong paved road. I didn't see the smaller one. I ran uphill for a while until I heard the roaring sound of A LOT of rushing water. It was so loud, I heard it over the music of my ipod. Then I saw the dam on my left side. It was beautiful...but I knew I wasn't as close to it as I should be. I looked for the dirt trail he talked about, but I couldn't find one. I decided I had gone the wrong way and ran back down to where I had originally found the paved road. There I saw the right one, just beyond a large green gate. It took me straight there.
Next time I'll bring a camera. It was absolutely gorgeous and I understood the illustriously luring effect it had on Norm. I stayed for only a couple minutes to enjoy the cascading white water and brilliant rainbow.
It was Valentines Day and there was a couple sitting on one of the huge rock formations eating a picnic lunch and kissing. I didn't want to ruin it for them.
I ran back through the familiar woods, under the fallen tree and down the narrow trail.
BTW- the dam was 2 miles up the trail, not 1 like Norm thought.

Total mileage for this day was approx. 6 miles.

I was so happy to get back to my car and eat the turkey sandwich I had packed. Yum.

4 miles or so

2006-02-13T18:38:00.000-08:00

I got up and out earlier than usual. The kids didn't have school today and I needed to drive down to Sac to pick up Megan. She had spent the night with grandma.

I really wanted to get in a good run.

I ran Otter Trail and Second Gate.

It was typical. I am getting bored running around here. I can hardly describe the dullness going through my mind.

uhhh

A Tough Day

2006-02-10T21:11:00.000-08:00

I can't begin to tell you what a sucky day this was. But here goes anyway...

First, I ran 5 miles. I love to run, but this was not one I will want to remember. It was hard. I don't know why...it just was. So many times I wanted to stop. I got tired easily and my stomach kept hurting. My breathing was difficult to control and the sun made me sweat a lot.

I did see one of my friends (Tiffany) as I was running. She was walking with 2 other ladies, one pushing a stroller.

I ran to Hidden Gold. I did it in a fair amount of time...49 minutes, but it wasn't very pleasurable.

As for the rest of my day...I had a talk with MB and it didn't go well. I rounded off the lovely evening with a middle school dance that I chaperoned. Katie told me it was formal and wanted me to wear something pretty. I choose a black skirt and pink silky shirt.
NONE of the other moms were dressed up like me and 2 of Katie's friends kept asking me to dance and saying I looked "hot". Oh brother, how embarrassing!

I'll be glad to put this day away.

Good Little Girl

2006-02-09T21:01:00.000-08:00

The sun was shining so bright! I was tempted to blow off the workout room in exchange for some pavement. However, I was a good little girl and stuck to my training program.

I did 3 miles on the treadmill, taking intervals of high and low speeds. Then I did some stretching while talking to an older man about everything from Apple computers to the harmful effects of deodorant. His daughter works for Apple. He has 4 Macs (including the newest one with Intel) at his house that he will never use to their fullest potential. To bad. I didn't offer to take them off his hands...that would be rude!

He was a nice man. He left after I did my leg weights and just before my sit up routine.

Then I went home and spent the rest of the day doing some MUCH needed spring cleaning.

Spring in early Feb?

Well, yeah...the temps have been in the mid 70's all week.

Come Alive! Baby are you sleeping?

2006-02-07T10:05:00.000-08:00

Hey runner lovers,

Yes, I know- I've been off schedule. I knew it was coming. I left Friday morning to spend the weekend by myself. Lots of reasons...but the main one being I wanted to write. And write I did. I devoted the whole 4 days to it. I even went to the movies to watch Harry Potter again for inspiration. I just love the way J.K. Rowling writes. Genius really.

Anywho...I got home early yesterday morning, but I couldn't run on account of my enormous headache. Knocked me right out.
So today is Tuesday and my training schedule says it's a 3 mile day. I mulled over the idea of running more than that to make up for the last 5 days off. But then I remembered reading an article that pointed out my idea is a rookie mistake. Not wanting to get injured, I decided to stick to the game plan. But hey- it didn't say anything about running my regular route HARDER than usual.

I guess it was three mile?? I ran Paymaster, Pointed Rocks and Westville. I felt my legs stretch way out and my feet lifting high into the air. I pushed myself. Half the time I wanted to throw up. My breathing was labored and my eyes focused. I had good form. My arms, my legs, my posture, my head and my ankles, heels...they all did what they were supposed to do.
It was nice. I enjoyed this run very much.

BTW- my time was 24 minutes. (give me a break! I did have some hills in there ya know). That's an average 8 minute mile.

New song to rock the ipod...FRIDAY NIGHT by The Click Five.

5..7...9!

2006-02-01T16:44:00.000-08:00

No, I am NOT talking about the clothing store.

I'm talkin miles, of course. I started out today with my sights set on 5 by going to just a little past Hidden Gold. But on the way back I kept on going past my turn off to American River Trail and headed to the 2nd gate. When I got back to A.R. Trail, I decided to tack on a little more by running around Otter Trail.
When I got back to my street, I did another Forest Gump..."Well, I figured since I gone this far..." So I kept going. I had Westville on my mind. I remembered how difficult that hill used to be.

Man, I thought...I haven't done that hill in a long time. I wonder how I would do now? Especially since I've already run about 7 miles?? Hmm.

For the record...I did GREAT. I was strong. I ran up that hill with absolutely NO fear of stopping. When I got to the top, I couldn't believe how easy it seemed. Wasn't it just last year (or longer?) that I couldn't even get up this hill without walking? And that was without all the extra mileage before hand.

Wow. What a difference a year makes. I wonder what next year will see me doing?

Mt. Whitney? Sure, why not!

BTW- Keeping a running log (actual book) next to my bed is a great way to keep a mileage count nice and handy. It's hard to believe that I've already run 87.5 miles this year! This month!

At this rate, I should hit my 1000 mile goal by the end of 2006.
Oh, here's hoping!

I need to get some cool pictures on here.

Man!

2006-01-30T21:20:00.000-08:00

I had this post written out yesterday, but I couldn't post it cause my server went down. I did copy it, but then forgot about the darn thing. Ah jeez.

Let me see...

Uh, weight room...2 and a half miles on the treadmill...a few leg reps...

I guess it wasn't much of a loss after all.

I'm freakin out about what's ahead...maybe I'll just stay in bed.

2006-01-29T21:26:00.000-08:00

I got up early this Sunday morning to make potato salad.

I've got my in laws coming over to celebrate Don & Katie's January birthdays. I really wanted to get in my 10 miles today. I was a bit nervous cause I haven't run a good 10 miles without stopping for a while. Last time I did the 10, I stopped at my friend's house for water and chit chat.
This time, I had no time for stopping. We expected company to show up in 2 hours.

I finished up the salad (with bacon, yum!) and off I went. Since it was Sunday, I saw many people. Beth was on her way to Church (yes, I felt a little guilty for choosing running over God). I also 2 saw ladies walking a dog and 3 men on skinny bikes wearing tight spandex black bodysuits.

I felt very good. Very strong. I waved to several people I knew.

Even though I felt strong, I ran pretty slow. My goal today was simply to not stop. I wasn't out to break any personal speed records.
Everything was going pretty good until about the 8th or so mile. My left knee felt like it was being twisted the wrong way. I ignored it. Then my feet started burning. I ignored that too. At the home stretch...I was hitting a wall. I was so hungry! That was a bit tougher to ignore. I could feel the energy draining from my body.
Luckily, I used my brain to overcome it. I reminded myself that I was close. What a shame to stop now. Keep going Kathy! You can do it, you've done it before. Just go.

I sprinted the end and stopped just in time to catch the image of my in laws white car coming towards me.
They offered me a ride up the hill to our house. I politely declined. A few minutes of stretching and I'm running up that hill!

New song to ipod..."Good Day" by The Click 5

Finding the 5 in blind daylight.

2006-01-27T21:03:00.000-08:00

Oh, back tracking on this log blog is so fun! Do you hear the sarcasm in my words? Trust me- it's there.

Anyway...This day was Friday. The training program says I need to run 5 miles.

Okay. Uhmm...so where is that exactly?

I figured Second gate is a good place to start. I can always add to it. I just had one big problem. My eyes.

I went to the eye doctor that day just for a regular check up exam. The good news is that I have 20/20 + vision. The bad news is that I had to go through getting a horrible headache and blurred vision to find out.

During the exam the doc used some drops to dilate my eyes. Those drops stung!
Instantly I started getting a headache. In a few minutes, I was unable to focus on anything close to me. I felt drunk. It was even difficult to listen to what the doctor was telling me since I couldn't see his face very well. I suppose I am accustom to looking at someone when they are talking to me.

Perhaps I wouldn't make a good soap opera star.

Anyway. I left the eye doc feeling very tired. My eyes stung and felt dry, but everytime I blinked (which I had strong urges to do) it felt so good that it took all my strength to open them again. Not good when you are driving.

I got home and crashed in bed for a while. I really wanted to run...but couldn't imagine doing it.

After a while, I got up and dressed in my running clothes. My will was strong. I wasn't going to let my body talk me out of it.

However, one step outside and I seriously doubted if I could do it. The sun was bright and flashed in my eyes light strobe lights. It was a strange feeling. I tried to focus on the pavement, but I couldn't even make out the shape of the rocks around my feet.
This forced me to look up and out into the distance. Distance was easier to see.

I ran the Otter Trail loop, 2nd gate and then back around the Otter Trail loop again. That's gotta be close to 5 miles.

Overall- it was a strange run. One that left me feeling venerable and woosie. Kinda like the feeling you have when you've just been to the dentist who shot your mouth with novicane. The whole world must see it, right?

Weight room with MB

2006-01-26T11:08:00.000-08:00

Today I was scheduled for the weight room. That is good because MB has today and tomorrow off. He likes to walk the treadmill (his knees disagree with running). This is why we never exercise together. Besides, I'm more of a loner when it comes to running.
Today provided an opportunity to do our own thing, side by side.

He did his usual 20 minute speed walk with a heavy incline, while I ran 3 miles in 30 minutes with no incline.
After I was done with cardio I did some leg work (not much). I started feeling dizzy and sick to my stomach. After a few stretches, MB showed me how he likes to do his ab work. He uses that big blue exercise ball. I tried, but it's a little big for me and hurts my neck. So I used the ab bender thingy.
We cut the rest of the workout short cause I didn't feel well.

MB just left for Oregon. He has an interview in Medford tomorrow. More on that subject later...

Laugh & Cry; Sing & Sweat

2006-01-24T10:14:00.000-08:00

It is nice to have a set training program. No question if I will run today...It's Tuesday...it's a 3 mile day. The only question I was faced with was...which 3 miles? My old routes are not quite 3 miles.

I decided on Pointed Rocks and Westville. It might not be a full 3 miles, but it has got to be close, cause I ran it hard and finished it in 25 minutes. Told you I was slow. But to my credit...there are couple of nice hills going that way. I lost time going up Pointed Rocks.
However, I never felt like stopping. Nope, not once. I'm inching my way toward progress and trying to keep my body at the same level as my desire...and vice versa.

I felt so strong at the end of the run, that I even considered going around Otter Trail, but decided against it. Let's stick to the plan, Kath.

So instead, I danced my fool heart out in the house. I laughed, cried, sang and sweat.
What song rocked my world?

"Memory" by Sugarcult...

First day of the rest of my life

2006-01-23T09:06:00.000-08:00

It's Monday and as scheduled, I worked out in the gym.

20 minutes on the treadmill got me 2 miles closer to my goals. I moved on to the machines for legs & arms. Next up- abs. 40 minutes total.

Hmm, that was easy.

I got it!

2006-01-22T16:14:00.000-08:00

My training schedule is coming together.

I've been reading some books and websites on how to train for a marathon. But it occurred to me that I wasn't going to find the perfect formula this way.

Why?
Because it's not personal enough. My life is well...unique. Everyone's is. If I'm going to follow a training path...I gotta blaze the trail myself and then run through it half a million times!

I'm not ashamed to say that I've been struggling with this. I am an organized whanna be. Meaning, I take shots at managing my time and stuff, but wind up with a big mess sooner or later. Take my kitchen for example...The pots and pans are neatly stacked below the counter, the appliances are stored in the island and the dishes stand at attention in plate rack. Everything is neat and tidy except for a few nagging groups that mock my good intentions. Namely- the tupperware, glasses & paperwork.
The daily mail and all important school newsletters clutter the table while I swear the leftover containers are a bunch of bullies playing "hide the lid" as soon as I shut the door. As for the glasses...they multiply. It never fails...as soon as I throw out the ones I don't like, it isn't long before new ones take their place, leaving me to wonder, "how the hell does this happen?"

Where was I going with this? Oh yeah, organization. Despite my greatest attempts, clutter is bound and determined to stick with me. The thing is...having good organizational skills is the secret to success. My dad always told me that I can do whatever I want to do, as long as I can see it. Keep it in your sights Kathy.
I want to run a marathon. At least a half marathon this year. I need training and I need a plan.

Okay- today I got one. It came to me as I was running back from Hidden Gold and Otter Trail (5.5 mile day).

Here's what it looks like in my head...

Monday- Workout room-light cardio, weights for arms and legs. Sit-ups. Stretching.
Tuesday- 3 mile run
Wednesday- off
Thursday-workout room-heavier cardio, light weights, Yoga
Friday-5-6 mile run
Saturday off
Sunday- 10 mile run, HOT bubble bath

Now doesn't that look good? I hope I can stick with it, but I know that life happens and often interferes with our best laid plans. I will allow this knock me off course once in a while. The most important thing is that I have a plan. I'm calling it my 3,5,10 plan.
I'll give it a whirl and see how it goes.

The Endurance Capital of the World

2006-01-17T18:07:00.000-08:00

I took Megan to her friend's (and my friend's) house. While I was out there, I decided to park at the tennis courts and do a hilly 3 mile route.
Secret Lake Trail to Sweetwater and back to the courts. More than half the time, I'm going downhill...but I tell you, the hills around here are enough to kill a person.
I guess that's why they call this place "The endurance capital of the world". Seriously, right here in my own backyard is home to a popular 100 mile endurance trail run.

Don't believe me? Here see for yourself. http://www.auburnendurancecapital.com/

Sorry, but I am not ever going to do that. I'm not that crazy. Now watch...in 5 years I'll be training for it! Maybe I AM that crazy??

Anyway. The run was fine, except I got nauseated. I can run through so much, but feeling like I'm going to hurl any second makes it very difficult to NOT STOP!

Just keep runnin...just keep runnin...

what do we do? we run.

Cross training kicked my butt

2006-01-15T13:54:00.000-08:00

I thought skiing would be no big deal. Not like it's a real workout, huh?

So why the heck did I wake up with incredibly stiff sore muscles in my calves and arms? Apparently it was more than I bargained for.

And the boots rubbed my ankles raw, but hey- it was fun!

Forgot to post this

2006-01-12T13:43:00.000-08:00

Good thing I'm keeping a journal log book as well as this blog. I keep forgetting to write on this site. Anyway, I ran 10 miles on this day.
It was to third gate, stopped at my friend's house and then ran home. On the way home I remember hitting the sharp pointy edge of a rock right on the ball of my right foot, which has been bruised and hurting already. I got so mad because it hurt so much that I yelled SHIT, and ran even harder for the next half a mile or so.

But at least it didn't rain.

Dancing with Myself

2006-01-09T20:55:00.000-08:00

I took the girls to school, went to the post office, bank and the gym.

I spent the next hour using the machines and dancing to the beat of my own drum. I had my nano on. I bet I must have looked funny. I don't care. I love to dance. Of course I was alone in the gym. I am brave and don't care to much if other people think I'm a little strange. I am little strange. But happy to be myself. It's a good thing Katie didn't know about my dancing around. She would have DIED of embarrassment. O'well. Ever since I saw the movie "The Truman Show" I tend to look a little closer for hidden cameras. However, I think I'd make a good show. Then again, I think most people would make a good show. People are naturally funny and gross all at the same time.
Somewhere in this country I think there is a rather large building devoted to national security. A place where your tax dollar is being spent on gathering vital information. You know...things like- what you wore last Tuesday and if there is method to your madness. That sort of thing. (IT'S JUST A THEORY...I HAVE NO EVIDENCE WHATSOEVER. DON'T COME AFTER ME BIG BROTHER!!!). Just your average American girl, who loves her country, using her imagination. REALLY. But if you must check me out, go for it. I promise to be quite entertaining. Hehehe. I have a good lawyer.

What a job that would be, huh?! After two weeks, nothing would shock you.

I wonder what the suicide rate for that job is? Not that I really believe there is a job like that...uh, no...I don't think there is.
Honest.

I just want to JUMP

2006-01-08T15:43:00.000-08:00

Music has come back to me!

Yes folks, I got a nano. I know what you're thinking...that I don't deserve it. And you're right. It was all my fault, my stubbornness that caused the untimely death of "cool runner" (my blue ipod mini). If I would have just relinquished the unit to MB when I had the chance...but no. I had to keep it on my arm, brutally exposed to those cold bundles of ice...she just couldn't take the abuse!!

Okay...I'm alright now.

There is still some hope for cool runner. I have not given up on her yet. This Friday I am going to Macworld (an Apple conference) held in San Francisco. I will ask around and perhaps bring her along and see if I can get any help for the little mini me.

Back to the Nano. It is black (2g) holds 500 songs. MB is a dear. He worked all day yesterday (overtime) just so he could buy it for me. It is my early birthday present. My birthday is not until late February. I felt terrible getting it, knowing that I'm the only one in the family who has ever had an ipod, only to break it and get another one so soon. He bought it at Best Buy so he could also buy a warranty which covers everything, including moisture damage (the problem with cool runner). Hmmm, good idea knowing me. It's not that I don't take good care of my stuff, cause I do! But I am very strong willed. And often times, it over rules my better judgment.

I ran to Hidden Gold (5 miles). Being the first sunny Sunday in quite a while, there were lots of people out walking, riding horses & shooting hoops.
I saw my friend, Thea, but she didn't see me. I really need to call her. Her husband, Ron, was driving. He saw me and waved. My knees did not hurt at all today. Perhaps my training plan is working. Cutting back on distance and concentrating on quanity, strength training & stretching is having an effect.
However, I've noticed that getting out to run EVERYDAY is a little daunting to me. It's not that I can't do it. I know I can, and really love it. The problem is time. It takes most of my morning to exercise, shower, write this post...blah, blah, blah. Running is not the only goal of my life right now. I want to write my book and perhaps get a part time job to save money for a trip to Portugal.
I am not gifted in the art of multi-tasking. Which is why I waited until this point of my life to tackle life time goals. When the girls were little my whole world revolved around them. They needed me constantly, and I was a good, tentitive mommy.

Life is a balancing act. The things that mean the most, get the most of your time. FEAR, or just plain LAZINESS, can over ride your good intentions and kick your priorities to the bottom of the list, replacing that precious time slot with nothing. You know what I'm talking about. Haven't you ever had PLENTY to do, but instead you just sat around and watched tv? I know I have. I did loads of nothing last year. I wonder how many hours I wasted doing nothing, when I could have been writing or reading or catching up my scrapbooks or....you fill in the blanks.

Okay, that's enough of that. My mind rambles sometimes...

I'm going to be very careful with what songs I choose to go on my ipod. However, 4 movie themes have already made the cut. Star Wars, The Raiders of the Lost Ark, The Unending Stories (Neverending Story) & E.T.

I have lots of movie theme songs... call me crazy, but I just love them!

No more running nakey for me! Hehe

Light Day

2006-01-06T22:12:00.000-08:00

In my attempts to run more and less (more often, less miles) at least until my knees get a little stronger, I ran Westville and down Pointed Rocks. When I reached American River Trail, I turned right and headed straight for the gym. It's not that far to first gate...I would guess a mile, perhaps more going the Westville route.

Anyway- As I was running up the hill to the barnloft (gym room) I noticed several cars parked near the stairs. My first thought was that I was not going to need my key (there must be other people using the gym right now). However that was not the case. The gym room upstairs was cold, dark and deserted. Since I was already hot from running, I decided to keep the lights off and the door open.
While I was using the ab bender and watching "blind date" on tv, I heard another car pull up. I heard the car engine roar suddenly and then a loud crunching sound. This caused me to glanced out the window, but all I saw was an old lady getting out of her car. She was parked awfully close to a metal horse enclosure. I figured she must have hit it. Crazy old lady drivers.

I continued on with my workout. Abs, legs & arms. I felt strong. After some much needed stretching, I turned off the tube and wrote down my name in the log book. I heard the unmistakeable sounds of a bunch of old women having a meeting coming from a room below me. I locked up and skipped down the stairs. Then I remembered the old lady and the fence. I walked over to see what damage she had caused to her Buick.
Nothing. Not a scratch. However, underneath her front passenger tire lay bits and pieces of splintered wood. I laughed. She had run over a palette. Don't suppose security will be to happy when they find it. I don't think the lady had any clue what she had done...and probably never will.

I ran back home and found out I only had 30 minutes to get ready. A movie and lunch with my friends sounds good.

Nothin in me Noggin

2006-01-05T11:32:00.000-08:00

I wasn't really thinking about anything. I listened to my breathing. I heard each foot hit the pavement. Birds chirped and fluttered through the leafless tree limbs.

Today the sun is shining bright. A familiar, but distant scent of springtime hangs in the air, fresh and clean. It feels as though the earth is waking up from a deep dark sleep. The sky is baby boy blue with streams of thin white clouds holding perfectly still. The hills look like God poured green food coloring all over them, except for the dirt that washed across the roads, that part He painted red.

What a masterful artist.

I ran Otter trail and second gate. I kept my back straight and my head up. I ran slow. I always do. Once in a while I would begin to feel sweat dripping down my face. I wiped it away and ran into the stream of water that flowed along side me. My shoes delighted in throwing water up the back of my legs. I rather enjoyed it too.

There is ONE thing I wondered...How long does it take for a banana peel to break down? For at least 2 months I have ran past the SAME banana peel on the side of the road. I have witnessed it go through many different stages of color and size. It hasn't really changed it's position much. You would think that after all the rain and wind we have had, it would been carried away by now. But no. It sits in the same spot, day after day. Hmmm?
I wonder...
How can mother nature move mountains...but not a simple black, old, shriveled up banana peel?

On the road again

2006-01-03T08:36:00.000-08:00

Ran to Hidden Gold and back. Weather was great. Didn't have any music...again. Instead I listened to the babbling sounds of newly created and more intense roadside streams, flowing downward toward the nearest drain. Either my knees ached or I am just paronoid about them.
I noticed more people out doing things in their yards. Some were using chain saws while others watched me go by. I'm a jogger, not a freak show.

Here's the thing...I love running, but I miss having my music. I will run no matter what. I guess I can get used to this...and it's probably a good thing since many marathons don't even allow headphones...

Give me a second please.

I'm grieving the loss of my ipod.

Thank you.

More Machines

2006-01-01T18:04:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I went to Border's Bookstore. I like that place. I can always find an interesting book and a consistent cup of coffee. This time I picked out a book that has great training tips from elite runners. I don't usually buy the books I pick up, but this time I did. Mostly because nobody bought me a training book for Christmas and I really wanted one...I guess it would have helped to have told someone.
Anyway- The book will be interesting. I read the first 2 chapters this morning. The first chapter focused on what makes a good runner. I can sum it up in one word. Desire. You have to WANT to run, want to improve and want to finish the race. No problem, I got it!
A book like this is nearly impossible for me to read from beginning to end, so of course, I skipped around. In doing so, I noticed that most elite runners run everyday. I also noticed this in other books. Runners who run marathons, run nearly every single day. I haven't been doing that. I've been giving myself a day or days inbetween to repair my muscles. This is how I've been going for the last 2 years. Now that I'm getting more serious, I think it's time to step it up a notch. Instead of adding more miles...I'm going to try running (or cross training) everyday, if I can.
Even if it is just one mile.

There are no excuses for me. I don't have a job. I do have access to a workout room any time I wish to go. Rain or shine...I can exercise.

Today the wind caused the rain to pour down sideways. Back to the gym I went. Same as yesterday...except I added that big blue exercise ball to my routine. I've never bothered to use one of those before and found it to be quite beneficial with push ups and stretching.

Along with my running book I also bought a book on Yoga. There are four major categories of exercise that I wish to master. They are endurance, strength, flexibility and balance.

Workout Room

2005-12-31T17:11:00.000-08:00

The weather is just to bad to be out running in it. I went to the workout center here inside ALT.

I spent 20 minutes on the elptical (if that's what you call it) machine. Then I spent 10 minutes going the opposite way with my legs. I like this machine because it's kind of like running, but without the harsh impact. Lately my knees have started giving me trouble. Just a little bit of trouble, but I'm taking it as a huge warning sign.
The last thing I want to be is a runner with bad knees.

I hate to say it, but I need to cut back on my trips to third gate. Maybe my lungs are ready for 10+ miles, but my legs certainly are not! I will need to strengthen them up first.
After my little bit of cardio, I worked on my arms. Then I focused on my legs and abs. Not to much weight, but plenty of reps. I rounded out the hour with stretching.
If I'm going to achieve my goal of running a marathon someday, I need to be smart. I need to know what I'm doing. I need to learn how to train properly. That means I have to incorporate strength training and cross training for overall success.

Running Naked

2005-12-29T19:22:00.000-08:00

My ipod is dead. The downpour on Monday really screwed it up.

After hours of trying to revive it, I decided to run without it. That's right. NO MUSIC of any kind. Except for the song in my head.
You know what? It wasn't really that bad. In fact, not having music blasting in my ears heightened some other senses. I was more aware of my surroundings, but most of all (and a good thing for a runner) is that I seemed more in touch with my body parts. Everything I felt was sharper...clearer. I think I even ran a little faster without the music and that is NOT what I expected to happen.
However, I'm not making it a permanent deal. Sure I could get used to running naked (without music, I mean) but I don't really want to.
I like my music. But how am I gonna get my hands on another ipod?? Hmmm.

BTW- I ran a short, easy 2.5 miles. Westville & Pointed Rocks.

10 mile-Hail and Farewell

2005-12-26T16:41:00.000-08:00

We've been having a lot of rain lately. This morning it looked like there would be a break in the storm. That was all I needed. I was out there one hour after I woke up. The problem was that I slept in. I didn't get out until almost 10 and I had my sights set on a third gate.
I wondered if the weather would hold out until I got back. It almost did. Not one drop until I was well into the 8th mile. Then the sky darkened and the temperature dropped. I could actually see my breath. All of a sudden I was being pounded by small clumps of ice. The ice turned into large fat puddles of H2O. I looked straight ahead knowing that it was only a matter of time before my ride shows up.
Sure enough, it wasn't long before my white trooper came into view. MB had told me before I left that if it started raining hard, he would come looking for me. By this time, I only had a mile left to go! I didn't want to stop. If fact I was rather enjoying the rain. Blue skies were ahead. I ran on and MB turned the car around. He pulled up along side me and rolled down the window.
Now it is important for me to say that I really appreciated MB's intentions of taking care of me. He's always worrying about me. However, I am a very stubborn girl.
This is what I said, "I'm okay, I'm good. I only got a mile left...I can do it!"
He offered to take the ipod.
Damn, I hate when he's right. I should have handed it to him. Instead, I replied, "No, it'll be fine."
Now my beloved ipod mini is not working.
Just before the rain quit, the volume began going up and down on it's own. Soon the click wheel wouldn't allow any volume control at all. I can't go back to the menu and my attempts to reset failed.
It didn't rain for very long. Just long to screw up my ipod. I'm upset- but it's not the end of the world. I'll call the number and hopefully it won't cost to much to have it fixed.
Well, there goes the fifty bucks I got for Christmas!

Glad to be home

2005-12-25T19:33:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I ran to second gate and Otter trail. Man, it felt soooo goooood to be home. I miss running when I am out of town. I saw a few other people getting in some Christmas Eve exercise. The 4 mile route didn't seem long at all. I ran strong and hardly got tired.
Today is Christmas day and I really wanted to get out there again, but the weather stopped me. I love to run in the rain, but this is not just a little rain. It is POURING. I would be soaked before I even left me street. However, if it's still like this tomorrow morning...I'm going anyway, even if I have to leave my ipod at home.

Disneyland Fitness Center

2005-12-19T22:27:00.000-08:00

On Dec. 19th, I got up at 6am. It was dark in our hotel room and my eyes were droopy. I am NOT a morning person. But like a kid on Christmas, I jumped out of bed, excited for what the day would bring.
I clumsily pulled on my running clothes and left the room as quietly as I could. I wasn't sure where the fitness center was, so I asked a resort worker.
It was located toward the back, hidden behind trees and a small swimming pool shop building. I was immediately disappointed. I suppose most Disney visitors don't bother to use facilities such as these. Later that day in the park, I found plenty of evidence to support my theory.
It was a small room with 4 nice treadmills lined up along the back wall. I grabbed a towel and headed for the closest one. I was quickly informed that the treadmill I was standing on was not working properly, so I moved to the only machine that wasn't being used.
I ran 2 miles and sweat more than I ever have doing just 2 miles. It was hot in the room. I'm used to being outside and honestly, I prefer the wind in my face.
In front of me stood 4 epilite running machines. The treadmills and epilites took up half of the space in the room. The other half contained a couple bikes and weight lifting machines.

While Disney Fitness Center was disappointing, but at least they had one. I was happy for that!

Easy 3 mile groin pull

2005-12-14T18:26:00.000-08:00

Someday I will learn to do my stretches. I will do my stretches and decrease my chances of injury.

Until then, I will suffer from such pains as groin pulls.

I knew the muscle in my right leg was not doing well before I ran the 12 miles on Monday...but like the stubborn girl that I am, I ran it anyway. Today I was better to myself. I ran an easy 3 miles and took it slow.

30 minutes of running feels like nothing now. Yipee...I'm improving. Now just imagine how much better I'll get when I do my stretches! And YES, I'm going to do them. Why?

Because if I don't, I will NEVER run that marathon. This I understand and acknowledge. From now on...I'm doing at least 15 minutes of stretches right after I run. No excuses!!

For the record- I ran Westville, Pointed Rocks & Paymaster.

I saw one other runner and 3 bicyclists. Tomorrow is a day off. Then another light run on Friday to round out the week. Next week I will get plenty of exercise, but not from running. Unless you would consider running all over Disneyland, a vigorous activity.

Everyday is a Transformation...Metamorphosis

2005-12-12T19:46:00.000-08:00

I've been wanting a good, long, hard 10-12 mile run all week. I can't explain why, it hurts like hell....but I wanted it anyway.

Today I was determined to get it. Never mind that pain in my groin, at least my stomach is doing well.

I am going to third gate (hopefully more) and that's that!

Everyone who knows me best could describe me in three words. Stubborn, brave and bold. In other words, I know what I want and am willing to go throw the fear of fire to get it.

What do I want? Right now, I want to run a marathon. Someday I will, but in order for that "someday" to happen, I have to work my butt off NOW! I also want to write a book. Obviously the book is not as important to me, or I'd be spending hours writing instead of running. Why is that? I am dedicated to the book just as much as running. I think the answer rests in what my emotional needs are at this phase of my life. Running is meeting my needs right now. Writing will come soon. I know it will. I can see it on the horizon. I am running towards it, getting closer with each step.

accomplishment. We all want it. We all want to feel like our lives have meaning and a purpose. We gotta know that what we do each day is more than mere survival. It is part of being human. A good part- I think.

Today I waved at so many people. People walking, driving and bicycling. One guy was in the road with a hose, washing away the dirt from his driveway. I moved to the other side of the street, but still flung muddy water onto my back as I ran through a puddle.
I did it. I ran out to third gate. Just after making the turn, I decided to run up Secret Lake trail and stop in at my friend, Denise's house. She had called me last night with some computer problems. I tried to help over the phone, but you know how hard that is to do. Luckily she was home and I begged her for a glass of water. We spent a little while resolving the computer issue and I took off once again for home. Though it was difficult to stop half way through the run, it was nice to talk to Denise and help her a little. I do love my friends and it feels good when I can help one of them.

On the way home I saw two horses playing. One had an orange contruction cone in his mouth while the other horse was trying to take it away from him. Funny.

Today I noticed that my legs are really changing shape. The muscle on my calves keeps getting higher and my knee caps are more prominate. Yes, I've been losing weight as well. It feels so good to put on a skirt that was tight on me last year and now hangs along my waist all loosy goosy. Nice. This picture was taken at least a month ago...

The Other Side of Fear

2005-12-10T19:42:00.000-08:00

I wanted to run 10 miles, but I did not.

I ran 6. Here's how it went down.

I have been feeling a bit ill all week. My stomach has not agreed with much food. It may be the over indulgence of last weekends party- or my sensitive insides- or a touch of the flu. Perhaps a combination of the first two, but does it matter why? The point is I woke up feeling sick...again.

Besides, the sun is out and shining...again. I long for the cool damp mist to drag along the asphalt surface. It is in the mist I can really run and not grow weary...at least not until the eighth mile! ;-)

I got my sorry butt out of bed and got dressed. I will run today, no matter what! I just won't get out to third gate. That would take 2 hours and I don't want to leave my girls alone in the house for that long.

Here we go. The Plan? Second gate and perhaps Otter to boot.

So I did that. Done and done. I was tired early on and wondered how in the hell I ever managed to run 12 miles (10 without stopping)!!
Before I even reached Sweetwater trail, I passed a lady jogging with her dog. Of course with it being a Saturday, there were many people out walking, biking and running.
On the way back from Second gate, I ran down Otter trail and passed the big log house. On their mailbox was a balloon. I wondered if the couple who lived there were announcing the birth of a baby...but the balloon didn't say anything. Not even Happy Birthday. It was mostly green with a little red in the middle. Could have been a red flower, but I couldn't tell. Hmmm??
O'well- I went on and forgot about it.

As I was coming up to my "finish line" I looked down at my watch. It's been 45 minutes. I knew I ran about 4 miles. Without stopping, I continued. Instead of turning left onto my street- my feet turned right. I ran up Westville trail and smiled. Another 2 miles!! Yeah!! I'm feeling good!
On Westville I saw another balloon exactly like the other one, attached to the mailbox of yet another nice home. Then it hit me...the Christmas home tour. Our gated community hosts a holiday home tour each year. I guess it's an open house sort of thing. You drive around to different homes to ooouuu and ahhhh at other people's stuff.

In 22 minutes I was back at my finish line and ready to stop.
6 miles. That's it...6.
Not bad for today, I told myself.

This is just as much a mental challenge as it is a physical one.
Why is it that some days my brain says..."run more, more, more, more!!! You can do it!"
While other days my brain says..."Kathy, what makes you think you have what it takes to run that far? Look at you...your butt is kicked after mile 6, or even 3 sometimes!"

We talk ourselves in or out of what we can or can't do.

Why? One word...FEAR

Fear of what?

PAIN

So how can I get past this fear?

By doing the pain...giving my body permission to feel the pain. You would be surprised what is past the pain.
Today I was going up a hill and I thought I couldn't go any faster. The resistance and pressure on my legs was horrible. I asked myself...Why am I tired? Haven't I run harder than this before? Move it legs!!
But it will hurt!
Yes, it will. So what? It already does. Lift your legs up higher. You CAN do it. You're just afraid to feel the pain.

I managed to do it. I raised them up higher and went just a little faster. My heart was racing. My blood was pumping. My sweat was dripping. And when I got to the top, the pain left me. My heart rate came down. I felt a rush of adrenaline and man, I was on cloud 107...until the next hill and the next wave of fear.

It's one hill and one fear at a time. The challenge is always there. No matter if I'm running 4 miles or 12.

Still, I like the easy times, when running feels like flying and the pain turns to ice. I skate along it's slippery edge with the wind blowing through my hair. Above the pain, I am safe. Soon I will be in the melted water...and that is where I will learn to swim...on the other side of fear.

Catch My Drift?

2005-12-08T21:20:00.000-08:00

Somedays you just see everyone you know. Today was one of those days.
Before I ran, I waved "hi" to my dear sweet friend, Kathi W. who helped pull my head out of the toilet last Saturday night...and believe me- I was sure to thank her for that one!

On my run I waved "hi" to Robyn, who is having a pampered chef party tonight, of which I will NOT be attending. Got enough of that stuff. She lives off of Otter Trail, so that's why I saw her.

Now bad me- I haven't told you where I went today. I wanted to run a long route, but the sun was shining so bright that I decided against it. I hate to run very far in the heat. Yes folks...I said heat. This is Ca. Yesterday it was cold, wet and foggy. Today it's bright warm and sunny. Darn, yesterday would have been more fun.

I ran Otter Trail and out to Second Gate. 4? miles. After I had made the turn at the gate, I saw another friend. Ron. Ron is the hubby of Thea. You know Thea! I had a dream about her last night because I felt guilty for not going to therapy when she called me last minute yesterday morning. In the dream she was walking. I think she was trying to kick my butt. Anyway- I waved to Ron and remembered I owe Thea 20 bucks.

This run today was kinda different. I was sluggish nearly the entire time. It wasn't until coming back around to the park that I felt good. I actually thought about running Westville too, but my bladder won the fight. It was screaming...GET ME HOME, RIGHT NOW OR YOU'LL BE SORRY!

Okay, okay...have it your way then.

Whatcha gonna do with your life?

2005-12-06T17:59:00.000-08:00

You don't know this yet...but I had my first martini last Saturday night. It was something special my friend made with pineapple juice and coconut rum. It was very tasty.
It was a great party given by my friend Dana. I had so much fun. To much fun. I loved that martini so much that I had another one (not the same flavor). Then I had another and another.

Whoa!

Today I felt well enough to run.

My head finally stopped throbbing, but for some reason the thought of a martini right now still makes me nauseous. Go figure.

After spending a couple hours cleaning the house, I was very happy to click on my ipod to a sweet running mix.
The weather today was great. Sunny and cool. Perfect day for running.

I wanted to take it easy today, so I ran up Pointed Rocks, around Westville and decided to go ahead and do the Otter Loop as well. I would guess that's about 4-5 miles.

I'm rubbing off on my oldest daughter. Today is the second time she took to the roads and did 2 miles. Good for her. She says she likes running too. Cool. Also Megan wants me to go running with her someday soon. Okay, that would be nice. I'm hoping that someday I'll get to run in a marathon with them, or half marathon...even a 10k would be fun.

The route today was pretty uneventful. I ran past 3 new houses being built. A bicycler passed me and waved. Not much else. I was gone less than an hour. 45 minutes actually.

I hate being sick. I am discovering that hangover sick is the worst. I didn't run on Saturday because I wanted as much water in my system as possible. I planned on getting liquored up...but not that bad...and oh, was it bad!!

3rd gate greeting

2005-11-30T20:19:00.000-08:00

I'm posting this late...but the date is right. Wednesday there was a break in the storm. I took full advantage of it despite my fleamy cold. I ran in the misty fog to the third gate and back. Which is almost 10 miles.

This is the problem I have with waiting to long to write about the run...I have forgotten the details. I don't recall exactly what my muscles felt like in the 2nd mile, the 5th mile or even the 9th mile.

I just know that I did it without stopping.

I also discovered the reason why I don't like going up hills.

It makes my heart beat faster. It occurred to me that if my heart beats faster, I get tired quicker.

"Now, Kathy"- you say..."Don't be stupid! Everybody knows that."

Yes, I understand my ability to state the obvious here. However, the entire situation can be explained by a little thing called supply and demand.

My muscles are suddenly demanding a greater supply of oxygen and my lungs are doing their best to deliver. The more I run, the more efficient my lungs get at producing the supply.
It's like your kids...your bug them and bug them to do something...eventually they get tired of fighting you and just do what they are told. Except training my body to do what I ask is easier than training my kids! Ha!

I do have a small tidbit of interest for you. Something that doesn't usually happen while I'm out running...in fact, has NEVER happened before.
An old lady decided to run with me.
Just as I was crossing the intersection at the 2nd stop sign (on the way to the gate) I passed this woman coming from the other way. I gave my usual greeting "good morning" and continued on.
But just under the sound of my music (Sarah McLachlin) I heard the lady's soft voice.
I turned around and clicked off my ipod. She had almost caught up to me by the top of the hill.
We ran together for a few minutes talking about where we were in our running worlds. She has already run marathons and is now running about 7 mile routes just "to keep out there".
She warned me not to push myself to hard, because knee injuries are what I'll end up with. I thanked her and we parted at the bottom on Secret Lake Trail.

I finished the route feeling good about another day of running.

Oregon

2005-11-24T19:14:00.000-08:00

I ran this day in Oregon while visiting my dad. It is Thanksgiving and I have a cold. Luckily, I am running. The weather is foggy and wet.
Nice change from the 70 degree sunshine we were having back home.

Boy, I can complain about anything!

BTW- 3 miles.

Trampled, but still breathing

2005-11-21T19:48:00.000-08:00

Well folks, I found it. My wall.

I ran American River to Sweetwater, turned at Secret Lake and took that all the way back to Sweetwater, which is almost to the third gate. Then ran the next 5 miles back. Round trip I would guess is somewhere around 12-13 miles.

The sun was shining hot and I knew right away that this had potential to be a tough run. My self destructive tendency told me to push it. Today I listened and bit off more than I could chew.

It wasn't God telling me to go farther...I don't even think it was the devil. I would say it was just me, and what I wanted to do.

I paid for it.

Let's start on Sweetwater just before I spotted the turn to Secret Lake.

I was already tired and going slow, but something in me desperately wanted to stay out here longer. Once I thought of Secret Lake Trail, I knew I wanted to go for it. I remember the hills were challenging. VERY STEEP, and not short. When you run downhill, it's for a long way and when you go uphill it's feels even longer.
I spotted the post that marked the turn for this tempting offer. I took it feeling scared, but challenged.
I was happy to see a small waterfall tucked away on the righthand side. I didn't see it the other day because I couldn't have seen it coming from that direction. I also saw a dead black and yellow bumble bee and a small snake, which made me jump cause I thought it was alive.

Halfway up the steepest hill, I stopped.
I was so mad that I threw my water bottle (yes, for the first time-I carried a water bottle) to the ground and kicked the pine needles. I yelled SHIT!! Then I checked to see if anyone heard me.
I tell you- I've had such a bad mouth on me lately.
I know that once you stop, you are more likely to stop again.

I stood there for a minute to catch my breath and poured water on my head.
I don't want to walk.
I took off again, hoping I could make it the rest of the way without another stop.
I didn't.

First I came to a crossroads. A place where I could cut through and shorten my route. But if I went straight, I could go down a more famous hill that splits all the way down to Sweetwater. Twice I've gone up this hill, but never down it. I told myself that I deserved to go down it. However, I knew I'd have to pay for that luxury.
I did. Dearly.

Oh, I managed to run for quite a while until I just couldn't take another step.
The inside of my left leg, near the groin, was screaming in pain. My feet felt like they were on fire and for the first time, I actually noticed that they had gotten swollen.
It was just after I turned back onto American River trail that I stopped again.
I cried. I cried for the pain in my leg, but mostly I cried because I simply needed to.

The last mile of my route was a mixture of walking, hobbling and jogging.

If security had stopped right there and offered me a ride, I would have taken it.

I was hurting.
I didn't want to run anymore.
I felt defeated and I just wanted to go home and sleep.
Sweat poured off my face like I had just walked through a shower.

I walked across my finish line in a daze and barely made it up my street.

I left the house at 10:10am
I walked back in at 12:25pm

2 hours and 15 minutes.

I guess that's not bad for tacking on extra mileage and stopping/walking.
I'll get better.
I can only improve, if I don't wind up on the injured list.

Felt so good to take off those shoes and spray down my feet with the garden hose.

Ahhhhh, just like sticking my feet in Lake Tahoe last month, except that was colder.

How the hell am I ever gonna run 26 miles?!?!
I guess that will come. Look, I didn't know I could 12.
Yes, it will come.

A New Place

2005-11-17T19:32:00.000-08:00

MB told me about a new route near the third gate that I might want to try.
It's about 4 miles and very steep.

Okay. Sounds good. (except for the very steep part).

I decided this morning to do it after a couple errands and spending an hour of torture in the hygenist chair.
I ate a snack on the way there. 2 slices of yummy deli turkey and half of a peanut butter Cliff bar. Swished down with lemon lime gatorade.

By the time I finally got to the rec lake (where the route begins) time had gotten away from me. I set off at 1:45. Instead of cutting through to Secret Lake Trail by going past Sherri's house...I decided I could tack on another mile by going up to Sweetwater first and going around. This way I'd be running the entire length of Secret Lake Trail before it comes back up to Sweetwater and tackling one very large hill right from the getgo. Little did I know (I sort of knew) that it would not be the most challenging one I'd face today.

interruption:
I know you have no idea what I'm talking about...but deal with it. This is my post. My journal. My log history. Thank you for understanding.
Now back to our regularly scheduled blog post.

You'd think I would have used my brain. The smart thing to do would have been to drive this route first, just so I knew what to expect. I didn't even consult my map! Somehow I believe my ignorance was intentional.
I love the thrill of seeing a new street. Especially when the houses start to spread out and I come upon a turn where if I fell I could potentionally land a good 30 feet below in a thick forest of thorny berry bushes.

Well they don't call this place "the divide" for nothing.

The one thing I did NOT like about today's adventure were the bugs! Getting that close to nature has it's downside. Thanks to the nice sunny weather, my face and neck had built up a respectable layer of sweat. I was constantly swatting at them until I got back onto the main drag.

It was fun. I will surely run this route again.
There were several things I saw on Secret Lake Trail.
The first thing I noticed is a house that we had considered buying 2 years ago on one of our many house hunting trips. It was a 3 story monster with 2 rock columns for an entry that stretched the length of all three floors. Impressive, but definitely screams...70's!!!!
This was one of those homes we only considered on paper. I just couldn't get past those columns. I hated them! Besides, our realtor said it had structural damage...let's move on.
I ran on by it thinking...hmm, well now I know where that house is.

I continued on, trying to stay to the left so I didn't get lost. Wouldn't be much fun ending up somewhere near the rock quarry. Especially since I'm so late on time. The kids will wonder why mom wasn't at the bus stop to pick them up.
At one point the road started to narrow, which made me think I had veered off into someone's driveway! But no, I hadn't. It was about this same time that my stomach started feeling like it was being used as a knife sharpener.

WHAT THE??

Yeah, it was as if I'd just gulped down a thick chocolate shake. Was it the Cliff bar? I made sure there wasn't any dairy in it. Everything is soy for me.
DAMN! It almost made me stop...but I pressed on. I was running downhill for what seemed like forever and couldn't wait to go uphill. Maybe then my stomach muscles won't be so stretched out and the pain will go away.
It worked, the pain subsided and I was happy again.

I guess that's about it. I ran back to my car and said hello to Allen, a security officer.

As I drove back down the same road I had just run on, my thoughts drifted to what it will feel like to someday run a marathon. I know I will do it. There are few people who do it. There are few people who WANT to do it. Why do I want to? I can't really explain that. Most burning desires are difficult to put into words.

Tonight I sat on the coach with a bag of frozen peas perfectly positioned to hit both knees. My badly bruised toenail looks horrible still. But even while I nurse these injuries, I am wondering where tomorrow will take me.

A Little Run

2005-11-15T20:54:00.000-08:00

What used to be a big run for me...3 or so miles...has now become a little run.

Funny how quickly it changes.

Today I ran Otter Trail and Second Gate.

The weather was warm and sunny. Not like the Midwest, getting pounded with record tornados. The trees are gorgeous!!! Bright yellow and red. It's truly magnificent.

I started out feeling great. No leg pain, no knee pain, no pain to speak of at all.
It stayed that way until just before reaching the gate. My chest started to hurt. It felt tight and I knew that if it got any worse, I'd have to stop and walk for a bit.

Luckily, it subsided before I got back to American River Trail.

I know I have crossed some imaginary line that puts me half way there. Am I already half gone?

What did I see on today's run?

I saw the same black old shriveled banana peel that has sat for at least a week on the big hill leading up to sweetwater...honestly, I thought some hungry animal would have gobbled it up by now. I guess they don't like banana peels. Go figure.

A man (I think a contractor) waved at me. I tried to see if I knew him...but the truck went by to fast for me to get a glimpse of his face. I did notice a name on the side of the truck and I know I didn't recognize it. I just got the feeling he was a contractor...can't really explain why.

Not much else happened. What a boring run, really.

What was I thinking about? I'll just keep that to myself.

Man, I need to find some new places to run. I need a change!!!!

1 hour 50 minutes

2005-11-12T13:20:00.000-08:00

1 Hour and 50 Minutes.

Thats what it took me to run 10 miles today.
I ran out to the third gate. This time I did not stop at a friends house for water even though I ran right past 2 of them. I dropped 20 minutes off of the first time I did this run. That's pretty good.

I was surprised that I ran the whole thing without stopping. Now of course me legs hurt.

Actually I can say a little more about the way I felt.
My right knee had started hurting well before I had gotten to the third gate. That's somewhere around mile 4. Not good.
On the way back I started lifting that knee a little higher than the other one. I hoped the extra movement would work out the pain. It did.
There is a hill on the way back that really bites. You get to where you think is the top only to turn a corner and find you still have more hill to go...then you get to that top and CRAP! you have ANOTHER big hill to run up.

But like Gary says...Pain is weakness leaving the body.

Question Gary:
If I intensify the pain does it make it leave faster?
Like when you are trying to deflate a water floatie? Because I'll do it. That was my thinking in moving my knee around. Working it out faster...pinching the intake valve makes the air go out faster, so why not apply that principle to my knee. Sure- sounds good.

Nothing is going to stop me. I am enduring more pain now then I thought was possible. Not the kind of pain that is going to leave me injured. I will take care of those. Ice and rice. glucosemine too.

The pain of enemy is sitting in my rear. It lags in my lungs. It tries to turn my brain against me. BUT FEAR NOT! I have learned it's evil plan. I have intelligent sources that have leaked vital information. I am a few steps ahead of him.

The victory is mine.

whaahhhaaaahha *evil grin* *crazy lady laugh*

The day before yesterday...was Wednesday

2005-11-11T16:22:00.000-08:00

I ran on Wednesday, but forgot to post it.

It was not far...only 2 or so miles. Around 20 minutes.

Westville, pointed rocks and back.

The point is I did something. I was planning on running a 10 miler on Thursday, but major cramps stopped me. Today a major headache stopped me.
Sometimes it really sucks being a girl. Bleeding hurts.
Small price to pay, though. I'd rather be a girl. I'm glad God made me female.

just not enough

2005-11-07T20:00:00.000-08:00

Not enough rain and not enough road.

I ran paymaster, pointed rocks, westville...and that used to be enough. But today I got back to my street and it simply wasn't enough.

I had only for 1/2 hour. So I kept going. At first I told myself that I would run the otter loop. But instead I ran clear down to the second gate.

My butt didn't even start hurting until I got to the big hill just before sweetwater. Then it was like....ahhrrgggg.

I didn't stop. Somtimes that is my biggest challenge. Just to NOT stop. There are about 4 little bumps in the pavement just before you reach the top on that hill. I know when I see them that I am almost there and I make sure to use those bumps as a catapult.

On the way back, I ran by a big yellow diamond shaped street sign. I hit it with my right hand, like I always do and made the turn onto American River Trail.
For some odd reason this little hill doesn't bother me. I take it with ease and delight in the downhill that follows. However, today my knees bothered me more than usual. This is beginning to concern me. I don't want a long term knee problem. Any help here would be appreciated. What do I do? Heat then ice? Stretches? Glucosemine?

Thank you.

So I made it back to my street, sprinting past a security truck. I think it was Karen. She's a friend who started working for the trails about a year ago. Nice lady...kicks butt if you get on her bad side. She is from Boston and has a strong accent to prove it.

The price of progress

2005-11-03T20:54:00.000-08:00

My legs hurt. My throat is horse. My toes are purple. And my insides cramped up something awful.

Why?

I ran 10 miles (at least) and didn't get water. Heck, food didn't even enter my body until 3:00 in the afternoon. I am going to try and run a 10 miler once a week. However, it has become painfully obvious that I'm going to have to start carrying water with me. That sucks.
I don't like to carry things.

Well, how about one of those kind that you wear on your back?
Besides the fact that I think they look stupid...same problem...it's a pain.
Water, food...it's all a pain.

Here's where I went...

Down American River to Sweetwater. Followed that along and almost stopped on the second major hill. I was sweating so bad that it was dripping into my eyes. The sweat is salty and stings. Then I realized something. I am not just running. I am TRAINING. What a huge difference that made to my attitude. I began pretending that there was a trainer running next to me, giving me pointers. I started using my hands as a visual way to lift my legs. With the palms facing the sky I raised and lowered them in perfect sync with my legs. Lift! Stand up straight. Don't fumble up the mountain...control yourself. Use your strength.

It worked. Suddenly I didn't feel so defeated. I made it up every hill that I tried today. And let me tell you...there were some major f-in hills. Sorry for that. But sometimes you gotta get your point across!
I ran all the way to third gate. I even sprinted to the gate so as to make it there within the hour. 58 minutes. I ran right past a CDF crew. I didn't stop, but slowed down a bit on the way back. This time one of the guys from the crew said hi. All of them stopped what they were doing to look at me. I returned the greeting and ran off back up the hill toward the next stop sign. That would be Cascade Trail. I've never been on this road before from this direction, but I knew that it goes by Thea's house.

WATER. Or so I hoped.

Nice road. Beautiful homes. I saw a friend (Lisa) and waved. She was doing a burn pile with her husband.
I ran past a sign that read "Black Oak Campground". Once I got to Thea's I was so thirsty. I was planning on yelling at her for living on such a crazy steep hill with an even crazier steep driveway, but she wasn't home. I searched all around her house for a hose, but when I found it lying in a steel bucket for the dogs...I changed my mind.

I figured it was only about 3 more miles to my house. I could make it. And I did, but literally wiped out.

On the bright side, I've lost some weight, my butt is tight and I'm proud of my progress. No matter how painful it gets.

This is the way it goes, I guess.

Dusty Shortcut

2005-11-01T21:15:00.000-08:00

It was a sunny day and I wasn't looking forward to how much more I was going to sweat because of it. I told myself...this is NOT a 10 miler day. Not even close.
But it's been 3 days since I ran. Despite the weather and a pounding headache...I laced up my new shoes and fired up my ipod.

I ran to second gate, then down Otter trail. I only noticed a small dirt trail last week that connects Otter to American River Trail. It would be a shortcut if I took it, cutting out at least a quarter of a mile...maybe more. I certainly didn't feel like I needed a shortcut. I could have kept going and ran around the field like I always do...but there was something very appealing about that short little trail.
It had loose rocks and patches of rough grass. It sloped downhill then flattened out into a heavily pounded dirt surface just as you passed by Beth's house. She's a friend of mine. From there you end up running down Beth's rock gravel driveway before reaching American River Trail.
It was a small taste of trail running. I will venture into that world. I know I will. I can feel it starting to stir inside my soul. We have hundreds of dirt trails around here.
But for now- I will stick to pavement. I have dreams that are calling from blackened asphalt streets. Wings to take me higher down the broken road of life.

Today's running time: 42.08

Rainy Burn Day

2005-10-28T19:15:00.000-07:00

It was a perfect day to run. The sky hung in a continuous plume of white smoke and cloudy mist. Even before I could see it, I realized that today must be a burn day.
Here and there small puffs of smoke billowed from piles of carefully placed broken tree limbs and scattered brush. My neighbors are taking advantage of the low winds and semi-chilly weather. Yes, this would be a perfect day for a burn, but I am seeking another golden opportunity. A scenic point of view. A chance to try out my new shoes!

That's right folks. I have new shoes and surprise, surprise...I LOVE THEM!!

Same brand as before...Brooks. This time I'm wearing a 7 1/2. I have more room now for my poor little toesies. What a difference! I can bounce higher, sail farther, stride longer.

For the record, I ran Westville, Pointed Rocks, American River, Paymaster and Otter Trail.
I think that's about 5 miles...not really sure. Although, I did use my new watch to time myself. Except I forgot to stop the clock when I crossed my finish line. It was very near 52 minutes (give or take 30 seconds). I just have to get used to using the watch.

So what great and interesting things happened on today's run, Kathy?

Glad you asked. Heck, I'm glad you even care.
Besides the wood burning stoves and cloud of burning brush that threaten to irritate my already sensitive lungs...this is what I saw:
A large field of black birds taking flight once I reached to close to them.
Roughly 5 deer standing in the road.
A friend of mine going to work. I waved.
Several horses.
Several security officers.
2 houses decorated to the hilt for Halloween.

And what about the pain? How was the pain?
Thank you. It was there. The burn in my butt and a tingle in my knee. However, what made today semi-difficult was the unusual tightness in my calves. More specifically- the front of my calves. Not sure the name of those muscles. Anyway, I kept trying to relax them, but it wasn't until I was on Otter Trail that they finally began to give way. That was a long time to run with stiff muscles. Dang, I hope that won't be a recurring issue.

Well, what fun did you have? You seem to have a lot to complain about. Why do you like to do this again?
Simply put- It makes me happy.
The places where the rain collects on the pavement...I like to hit those hard and splash water all up my legs. The exhilarating rush of accomplishment when I reach a hill that I thought I couldn't do is gratifying.
Just the knowledge of knowing I am DOING something that many people would not even attempt to do brings a sense of pride and honor to my meager existence.

We all must set goals or life lacks purpose. This goal is selfish. Currently it is does not help anyone other than myself. I sometimes feel much guilt in that. Thankfully there are benefit runs. I will someday run for cancer. Run for aids. Run for folks who can't run anymore.
Pushing your physical body past a point at which your brain said "enough" teaches you something about your will. The testing of your strength opens many doors to the knowledge of who you are and what you're made of. You may not like the results, but that too can change.

I am running into a metamorphosis where change is inevitable.

The smoke in the air smells like pot- which may explain my deep thoughts. I seem to be getting dizzy.
Hmmm

Sweet Surrender

2005-10-26T21:52:00.000-07:00

I knew I would be running a long way today. The weather was perfect. Cool and overcast with a high possibility of rain. Very promising.
These are the days I love. Nothing to do, but run and run. Anything else I might of had to do today can wait...and it did.

I started out thinking...I'll run to the 4 way stop at Hidden Gold. Nice challenging hills out that way. Last time I had to stop on that hill. It just seems to go on forever.
MB measured the distance of that route (Hidden Gold and back) as 4.5 miles. Not a bad run, and with hills- even harder.

Now I had to give you that reference point so you can fully appreciate what I did today.

Today I did something that last year I could only dream of doing.
I RAN TO THE THIRD GATE!!

Yes, I did. That is 9.5 miles. I know because MB measured it tonight with his truck.

But Kathy- I bet you had to stop. I bet you had to walk.

Well, what if I told you that I didn't stop? I didn't walk? Then would you be impressed?

Here's how it went.
My leg started hurting right away. Dang, I really need new shoes. By the time I got to Sweetwater Trail, it was no longer an issue, because my butt was on fire. The weather I thanked God for. Dreamy, misty, lovely weather. Finally a beautiful fall day. I ran past the big house with the crooked brick chimney and felt pretty good. I got up the next hill (which was very steep and long) without stopping. I struggled- but didn't stop. Several times I noticed little dead snakes. When I turned the corner and saw Hidden Gold in view- I decided right then to keep going. I know there is another 4 way stop...maybe I can make it to that one this time.
I didn't realize just how much further it was. By the time I reached it, I knew I was pretty close to the third gate. I became greedy. I've always wanted to run to third gate.
But the lazy voices in my head screamed, IF YOU GO THAT FAR...YOUR GOING TO HAVE TO RUN THAT FAR BACK!!
I know...but it's the third gate! I answered them. I can do this!!
So I just kept going.

It was like Forest Gump. Well, I figured, since I've gone this far...

I don't know how many hills I ran up and over. I lost count. There was something interesting that happened too. I forgot I was listening to music. It became like elevator music and faded completely into the background. By the time I realized it, I couldn't remember what the last 2 songs were that I had just played.
Focused, I guess.
Just before I dropped down to reach third gate, I looked out across the landscape. The view was awesome. Breathtaking really. All you can see are the tops of thousands of trees for miles. I very much enjoyed that.
Once at third gate and turned around I was very thirsty. I decided I would climb one more crazy, insanely crazy steep hill so that I can stop by my friends house for water.
She wasn't home, so I used her garden hose to quench my dying thirst. It was the ONLY stop I made. Give me a break- girl's gotta stay hydrated!
I continued on looping around (I can't remember the name of the streets I was on) until I came back to Sweetwater Trail. I told myself that if I had to walk, it would be alright. I knew I had already ran at least 5 miles. But I didn't really want to walk. I wanted to run until I could run no more! I want to know what my bodies max is. How much can I really handle?
Obviously I can handle more than I thought because I ran all the way back home without stopping.
In fact, and I realize that you may think me crazy for thinking this, but I kind of like the hills.
Yeah, I know...that's CRAZY talk.

Kath- how can you prefer the uphill over the downhill. Isn't going downhill easier?
Yes, it is. Let me explain.
On the way back my knee started hurting. That's a new pain. Brand New! The pain in my butt is familiar. I've learned to live with it. Me and my butt pain have called a truce and life has become better for both of us.
Now the knee is a different story. Going downhill made my knee ache. It also made my toes crunch. 2 of my toes are bruised and painful.
Going downhill made me appreciate my old friend, "Mr. Pain in the Butt".

There is one more thing that happened on the way home that kind of scared me. There was a deer next to the road. That usually doesn't scare me- but this one was BIG. It had tall antlers. It was a Buck and it wasn't moving. It watched me. I ran steadily as I wondered if bucks were ever known to charge people. Thinking on it now- I should have moved to the other side of the road. Instead, I was brave (or stupid) and ran right past him. Only his head moved, never taking his eyes off me.

Whew- I was glad to be past him.
As usual, security waved as they drove by. A couple of them seemed surprised to see me. I guess they are not used to seeing me out that far.

Just as I was coming back around the soccer field it started to rain. I smiled and held out my hands. I was hoping it would rain on me.
Sarah McLachlin sang Sweet Surrender on my ipod for the 6th time. I love that song because I know God gives me the strength to do things I think are impossible. I surrender my impossibilities to Him.

The body is not that strong. The mind is only strong when it prays.
Today I prayed in spades.

Last one at Lotus

2005-10-24T20:50:00.000-07:00

I ran 5 miles...12 laps at Lotus Field. This will be the last time I run here for a while. Katie's team will not practice here anymore for the remainder of the season.
Bummer.
I really like this field. I know exactly the distance and the track is nice and flat. I sappose I get more ofa workout at home, though. Killer hills at home.

So here's how it went.

Lap 1, my leg is hurting. I tell myself it will subside.
Lap 2, I'm running nice and strong.
Lap 3 & 4 are the same, but leg eases up a on the pain a bit. However I notice that my big toe seems to be asleep. Very annoying.
Lap 5 a boy that has been behind me since lap 3 passes me. That made me kinda mad.
Lap 6, the boy stops. Hahaha
Lap 7, I feel sweat dripping down my face
Lap 8, I start slowing down...my leg is hurting again.
Lap 9, I feel renewed strength to push myself so I can make it to lap 12.
Lap 10, Hell, I just wanted to stop and rub my leg right then
Lap 11, One more! One more! Pick up the pace Kathy!!!!!! That is what I am screaming to myself.
Lap 12, Run, run, run....faster, pick up the legs, swing the arms, move as one strong whole unit, DAMN IT, SPRINT!!!
Done.

Then I walked.
It always feels weird to walk after that. As if I am learning how to do it all over again. Step, step, one foot in front....
I fell on the grass in front of a friend who has been watching me. James is a nice guy and one of my neighbors. His encouraging nature is a welcome greeting, "Good Job, you ran a long time!"

We talked a little while about stride and shoes. He liked my ipod. I liked his watch. It is actually exactly what I need so I can time myself. He is a police officer and bought it because of it's size and the fact that it is lightweight. He was embarrassed to admit that he bought a ladies watch.
I understand...the men's watches are huge!

By this time the night sky had fallen and cooler air had settled in all around me. Time to go. As I got up and began walking back to the car, I wondered where my jacket was. I know I left it sitting on the grass next to my water bottle. Everything was gone. I don't care about the water bottle, but my jacket had my car keys inside!
So I ran again. This time in desperate need to catch up with the coach before he takes off with someone's forgotten sweatshirt.
Luckily Dave was standing in the parking lot holding it up, stil trying to find the owner.
Whew!!!
I can't walk home from Lotus!

Sunday Afternoon

2005-10-23T19:41:00.000-07:00

It was a horrible tradgedy for such a lovely day. I killed what might have been a perfect Sunday afternoon by painfully paying bills and balancing finances.
Life is to short for this.
It's truly amazing how fast money flies in and flies out. Just like that a thousand dollars is gone.
Kind of like food. Takes forever to make it, but only minutes to use it.

By 4:00 I had finished. Thank goodness...that should do it for at least another 2 weeks.

I ran Otter Trail. Pretty easy, though I sweat like crazy.
After the run, and taking the girls to AWANA- MB & I went for a walk. We walked Westville Trail and stopped to talk with a friend who was busy putting up Halloween decorations.

It was a nice evening after a not so great afternoon.

Round and Round

2005-10-20T20:27:00.000-07:00

The air is growing colder and the sky is dimming down. The leaves are turning orange while the smells are all around. The smell of autumn.
Another soccer practice. Another chance to breath in the fresh crisp mountain air. I love this.

Tonight I ran 20 laps. That's about 4.5 miles. I ran all the way into dark and just as practice was ending. I think I could have done more. My toes are really starting to hurt. Yes, I said toes...as in more than one. I have to break down and buy some new shoes. The problem is that I made them too small when I stuck those large cushions inside. But I'd rather have bruised toes than shin splints in my legs. It's really the lesser of two evils.
I see the moms all stand around and talking. Hopefully not about me. But in all honesty- they are nice moms. I'm sure that if they were talking about me, it would be nice. They are nice ladies. Jen, even joked and asked me to run a couple for her.

Tomorrow is a big fundraiser for our school. In my opinion it is the best kind of fundraiser. Parents don't have to do much and it brings in a lot of money. It's the Jog-A-Thon.
Could there be a more perfect way for a school to make money??
It's a win-win situation.
Kids get some much needed exercise and the school gets big $$$$

Megan has been practicing all week- dare I say, she's been TRAINING!! The little go getter.
Also she has raised almost 100.00 in pledges.
This is the one fundraiser that this family really takes seriously. Last year I was the DJ. I hooked up my ipod to the school speakers and rocked the field. You may remember...I did write a post about it.

This year, I'd like to run with the kids, but I fear the ones in charge are going to make me mark cards. Oh, joy.
Also I get to spend a little time in Katie's science room checking out globs of goop under a microscope.
Sounds like fun! (really, I LOVE science)

Take care runner fans

Overcast

2005-10-19T13:35:00.000-07:00

What a nice day for a run. Absolutely perfect. Doesn't get much better than this folks!

I ran American River to Pointed Rocks (yes, that's uphill) Westville back to American River and then ran around the Otter Trail loop. I'm guessing that's about 4 or so miles. I don't know really. I just judge my distance by songs on my ipod. I ran through at least 15 of them.
Whatever- I didn't stop, even though I think I'm as slow as a tortoise. Really. I think a guy with a cane can hobble his way alongside me.
Well...maybe not THAT slow.

Plan of Attack

2005-10-17T19:52:00.000-07:00

Okay everyone...I have a plan. This morning I ran 4 miles. I did Otter Trail and then ran to Second Gate. It was challenging because it was so hot outside. Then tonight at Katie's soccer practice I ran another 5 miles. Do the math...c'mon you can do it. 9!! yes, I ran a total of 9 miles today. I figure that I need to be able to at least get to where I can run 13 miles (a half marathon) in one day- even if they are not all at once. Then slowly I'll start putting them together. Then I'll work on my time, once I'm doing the full 13. Sounds like a good plan, huh?

Back to this morning. The minute I reached the bottom of our street, I realized that I needed to go to the bathroom. Sorry- that will have to wait. I'm to far now to turn back. Fortuantely the feeling subsided.
However there was one feeling that I wish would have subsided that didn't. My headache. It pounded the entire time. Even my music seemed to be to loud.
I saw 2 dead birds on the side of the road. Both little finches.

By this evening, I wasn't sure how much I was going to do because my butt muscles were very sore. Luckily, once I got started the pain seemed to vanish and I mentally tried to convince myself that I hadn't done any running this morning and that I need to run the full 12 laps (5 miles).
On about the 10th lap I started thinking about that quote. Use your mind. Let your mind run for you. Have the mindset of an endurance runner. If the mind is not tired, than the body is not tired. Make your mind tell your body what to do.
That seemed to work. I ran the 11th lap okay and on the last half of the 12th lap I picked up speed and sprinted the rest. Dang it felt good and not one single muscle hurt. I'm a sweaty stinky mess- but all in all, it was worth every step.

On the way home Katie and I did something fun.

running in circles

2005-10-13T19:40:00.000-07:00

Another soccer practice. Another round of laps.

Since tonight's practice is held at the school, the laps are not as long is distance. I ran a total of 19 laps. That's about 4 miles. I stopped after 15 because I thought I was done. After a couple of minutes talking with the other moms, I decided I'd rather be running. So off I went for another 4 laps. I would have done more (20 was looking good), but practice was over and it was getting so dark that I could no longer find the ruts in the dirt track. Also the temperature was dropping. That felt good.

On the way out to the car, Megan said she would run next to me. I was jogging. She said she could walk as fast as me. So I said "well, what if I run?" and took off. She took it as a challenge. Surprise, surprise. We raced each other to the car. It was fun. We were laughing as we both touched the car at the same time. She took a short cut!

Man- I love my kids.

Hidden Gold

2005-10-12T11:48:00.000-07:00

I knew before I left the house that my usual routes were not going to be enough...not today. I want to push myself. I want that rush of pain- like in Tahoe.

I ran down and up American River Trail (almost stepped on a dead snake) to Sweetwater. Now usually I would turn right and continue on until I reached second gate. However today, with the fear of a thousand snails, I turned left. Left goes way, way out, eventually to third gate.
It was a beautiful run. After I passed a huge house, the one with the curvey shaped brick wall and chimney, the road flattened, laying out a spectaular view of the canyon. Gorgeous.
Luckily the trees were so tall and congested that I didn't have to melt in the sun. The pines shaded my steps and breathed cool mist on my determined face, as if to greet me in the most friendliest fashion.

I was going uphill now. Getting steeper and definitely longer uphill distances than I am used to. Finally, as I turned a corner and noticed the hill wasn't about to let up. I stopped. Yes, I know- I stopped. I just needed to catch my breath. I gave myself a good long 5 seconds and took off again feeling a bit more perk in my step. However it wasn't long before my butt was once again on fire, my legs begging for mercy and my head throbbing from the pressure. I'M NOT STOPPING AGAIN! That next breath caught me power walking. I pretended I was using a rope to pull myself up the mountain. 1,2,3,4,5....9,10,11...that's enough! I narrowed my sights on what I hoped was the top and ran for it.

All that was rushing through my brain was a single question. What is "Hill of Hell" like? That's the hill you must first go up when you run the half marathon at Tahoe. Is that hill harder than this one? Probably. No matter. I'll master this hill one day, just like I mastered the crazy steep hill of Otter Trail.

Downhill was glorious. One more little uphill and I made it to "Hidden Gold". I hit my hand on the stop sign and stomped my feet on all four corners of the intersection as my official way of marking the half way point before turning back to do it all over again.

I am happy to report that I didn't stop on the way back, though I sweat like crazy! I won't sugar coat this. It was HARD!!
But I did it. I found a way to push aside my fear and take the plunge. I suspect I have many more mountains to climb, more tortures to endure, but that's life...filled with sweat and tears.

7.5!!!!

2005-10-03T21:06:00.000-07:00

This is the day I've been waiting for. The day I ran more than I thought I could.
I was out at the soccer field with Katie and started running at 5:30. I didn't stop until practice was over at 7:00.
I wanted to run at least 12 laps, like I've been doing (5.5) miles. It didn't seem long before I'd done 5, 8, 10 laps. I started to think...why stop at 12? I'm feeling pretty good, maybe I can do more?
So the magic #12, came and I didn't stop.
13, 14, 15...
I just kept telling myself, Ah-one more lap Kath. You can do it. Practice will be over soon.
And then it was. Practice was over. Katie was standing in the middle of the field as I came around she was waving her hand at me, signaling it was time to leave. I shouted, asking her to pick up my sweater and water bottle. I kept running. I had to at least finish the lap. Lap #17. I sprinted the last half and charged her when she wasn't looking.
She called me crazy, but laughed anyway. She loves that I'm different than all the other moms. I kinda like that too.

S0- I figured out that 17 laps translates into 7 1/2 miles. Not bad. I'm well on my way to my marathon goals. But for now- let's just focus on that 10k this Saturday!
Cheers!

running double

2005-10-02T10:08:00.000-07:00

This morning I decided that without a doubt, I am going to sign up for that 10k race in Lake Tahoe this Saturday.

There. The decision is made.

So I'd better get serious. I've only got a week!!

I'm concerned about my shoes. My right leg has been starting to hurt. I need to run a lot this week. I need my shoes to hold up. I think I'll go into the running store (where I bought them) and see if I need new insoles. Hopefully not.

I ran Westville to Pointed Rocks to American River. Usually I stop there at the bottom of my street, but today I kept going. I continued on around Otter Trail and then back home.

That was a pretty long route, but if I'm going to have any stamina up there at 6500 hundred feet- I have to push myself here at only 1500 hundred feet. Dang- I must be crazy. I don't know if I'm ready for the mental and physical a** whooping I'm probably going to endure, but what doesn't kill us only makes us stronger. I believe that. At least while I'm getting my butt kicked I'll have a nice view of the Tahoe Valley.
Yeah- that's thinking positive!

Loser

2005-09-30T21:20:00.000-07:00

I called myself a wusie, loser and pathetic. But I know I did fairly well. This afternoon I was informed by my daughter that tonight's soccer practice was going to be held at the high school. Now how am I going to get in my 5 miles there? That soccer field is tiny and rough. I'd have to run around it at least 30 times!! I would not like that.
So I decided to run up to the main track and see if it was being used. Luckily for me it was deserted. I ran the first 10 laps, lap 8 had me dancing, and thought to myself...

another 10, DO ANOTHER 10 LAPS! Heck, I don't want to do that. But you've only gone half way. Go another 10!!

So I did. But on the 15th lap, I was feeling sick. I wondered if I would throw up when I finally stopped. My next step had me wondering if I would soon fall down...so I stopped. That was it...at least for today. I walked the next half lap until I got to the water fountains. I drank a ton. I splashed it all over my face and shirt. I took a deep breath and started running again. The last lap...the 20th lap, I ran faster than I had on the first one. I pushed myself. I yelled at myself. I didn't care who saw me. I didn't care what anyone would think. This is what I needed to do.
WUSIE!! LOSER!! C'MON KATHY, MOVE YOUR ASS!!!

I had run through my entire playlist and started on another, by the time I got back to the lower field where the girls were playing a practice scrimmage against the boys. Looks like the girls were kicking some butt! Katie was in the goal box- of course. Man, she's good.

Better late then never

2005-09-28T16:17:00.000-07:00

I ran Otter trail today. It was already past 11am and getting hot, but I got out there anyway.
I was glad I did. Nice run. Not to hard. I almost stepped on a lizard and waved to the same lady twice.
I put a couple OLD songs on my ipod and had fun hearing...love is a battlefield and Jesse's girl.

Not much else to say- catch ya later.

Lotus Field

2005-09-26T20:18:00.000-07:00

I ran 2.5 miles (6 laps) on Friday night. That was Sept. 23rd. I ran without music that day because my ipod battery was dead. It went okay until my right hamstring began hurting.

Tonight I ran 12 laps. Walked 2 for a warm up and cool down. This time I didn't stop at all. I did the whole 5.5 miles all at once, even though last time it was not much of a break (30 seconds at most).
The sky tonight was beautiful. So many shades of blue mixed with white clouds on one side and dark purple/pink clouds on the other.
The last 2 laps killed me. I could feel my dinner sitting right in my throat. I could have thrown up so easily. But, hey, gross and it would have really embarrassed Katie- so none of that thank you very much. I would have stopped, but I really wanted to reach that 5 mile mark again.
I listened to my praise music and that was nice. Unfortunately I still feel very bad. I have strong stomach pains. It feel this way when I accidentally get a dose of dairy.
O'well. Another night to tough it out.
Just as I was finishing my run- a thunderstorm rolled in. Lightening filled the sky. Katie's team practiced for another 20 minutes until practice was over.
It's still going on outside. Lightning, thunder and I'm lying in bed, trying to write this post without hurling. Soon I will hear the rain, but it hasn't started falling yet.

3 flat miles

2005-09-22T21:55:00.000-07:00

I was tired and my stomach was hurting again. Even though it was time to leave for soccer practice, I suddenly had the urge to change out of my capri jeans and into my spandex shorts. Maybe I should run instead of taking a nap in the car??

It didn't take long to finish the transformation and in 2 minutes we were out the door. Only a few minutes late...not much. Megan's team, the Hotshots, practice at our elementary school. I usually talk with other parents, but today I started running before they could catch me.
I waved to Jen, said hello to Mark and even kicked the soccer ball back into the game as I went running by. This loop is a bit shorter than running at Lotus Field (where Katie practices) so I ran around it 15 times. It must be a lot shorter, cause Katie said that 5 laps makes a little over 1 mile. So I ran about 3.5 miles today. Not bad. I think that's what I usually run at home.
It felt good to run instead of sleep.
But now it's after 10pm and I'm very sleepy. MB made a terrific dinner while I was out.
Night-night.

drop over dead, runner

2005-09-20T14:10:00.000-07:00

Not today!

I ran to second gate. On the way there, a little yappy dog decided to chase me. At first I laughed. But as he kept coming and then ran out into the road where he almost got hit by a truck, I got mad. The man in the truck looked at me as if to say, "Get your dog out of the road." Not my dog.
I tried waving him off with my hand. Finally the clinking sound of his collar faded away.

On the way back I got a sudden tightening in my chest. It felt like someone had just whacked me a blow to the back between the shoulder blades. I even looked behind me to make sure that didn't really happen. Nothing.
I wondered back and forth in my mind if this would be a good reason to stop. Meanwhile- I kept running.
After a while, the pain shifted lower into my left side. I sighed with relief. Must have just been a pocket of gas. I have heard of runners, in very good shape, killing over right there on the road.
Well, not me baby. Not today.