Julie Berg: Run On

The Daring Bakers: Basic Scones (Biscuits)

2012-01-27T16:30:00.001-06:00

Audax Artifex was our January 2012 Daring Bakers’ host. Aud worked tirelessly to master light and fluffy scones (a/k/a biscuits) to help us create delicious and perfect batches in our own kitchens!

I've been baking biscuits for years. Steve and the boys love them so I make them quite frequently. I've baked them with cream, cheese and chives, fruits, whole grain and herbed. I don't know that they have ever created much of a challenge so I was kind of disappointed with this months recipe.

I could have tried an exciting new variation of the basic biscuit but, alas, I did not. I was making meatloaf for dinner when I read of the January challenge so whipped up a batch to go with the meal.

Here is the recipe I used:

1 cup (240 ml) (140 gm/5 oz) plain (all-purpose) flour
2 teaspoons (10 ml) (10 gm) (⅓ oz) fresh baking powder
¼ teaspoon (1¼ ml) (1½ gm) salt
2 tablespoons (30 gm/1 oz) frozen grated butter (or a combination of lard and butter)
approximately ½ cup (120 ml) cold milk
optional 1 tablespoon milk, for glazing the tops of the scones

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to very hot 475°F/240°C/gas mark 9.
2. Triple sift the dry ingredients into a large bowl. (If your room temperature is very hot refrigerate the sifted ingredients until cold.)
3. Rub the frozen grated butter (or combination of fats) into the dry ingredients until it resembles very coarse bread crumbs with some pea-sized pieces if you want flaky scones or until it resembles coarse beach sand if you want tender scones.
4. Add nearly all of the liquid at once into the rubbed-in flour/fat mixture and mix until it just forms a sticky dough (add the remaining liquid if needed). The wetter the dough the lighter the scones (biscuits) will be!
5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured board, lightly flour the top of the dough. To achieve an even homogeneous crumb to your scones knead very gently about 4 or 5 times (do not press too firmly) the dough until it is smooth. To achieve a layered effect in your scones knead very gently once (do not press too firmly) then fold and turn the kneaded dough about 3 or 4 times until the dough has formed a smooth texture. (Use a floured plastic scraper to help you knead and/or fold and turn the dough if you wish.)
6. Pat or roll out the dough into a 6 inch by 4 inch rectangle by about ¾ inch thick (15¼ cm by 10 cm by 2 cm thick). Using a well-floured 2-inch (5 cm) scone cutter (biscuit cutter), stamp out without twisting six 2-inch (5 cm) rounds, gently reform the scraps into another ¾ inch (2 cm) layer and cut two more scones (these two scones will not raise as well as the others since the extra handling will slightly toughen the dough). Or use a well-floured sharp knife to form squares or wedges as you desire.
7. Place the rounds just touching on a baking dish if you wish to have soft-sided scones or place the rounds spaced widely apart on the baking dish if you wish to have crisp-sided scones. Glaze the tops with milk if you want a golden colour on your scones or lightly flour if you want a more traditional look to your scones.
8. Bake in the preheated very hot oven for about 10 minutes (check at 8 minutes since home ovens at these high temperatures are very unreliable) until the scones are well risen and are lightly coloured on the tops. The scones are ready when the sides are set.
9. Immediately place onto cooling rack to stop the cooking process, serve while still warm.

A no frills, basic dough which is very simple to turn into biscuits. Everyone loved them but again, we were puzzled by the title of Challenge.

2012 Game Plan

2012-01-20T11:35:00.000-06:00

After scouring race schedules, thinking about goal races andlooking at my calendar I have been able to put together my schedule for 2012racing.

My first choice is the Gnarly Bandit Ultra Series (races listed below). 4 100 mile ultras and 1 100K. Inlooking at the dates of the races and my family calendar, the dates align. Noconflicts! This must be a goodomen. I then had the family discussion. I stated my goal, the dates involved,the training involved and asked if they would be interested in family road tripsto a few of the races. I received the high five on the long training days, thefew weekends away and a maybe on the family road trips. I’ll work on them! I reminded them of the fun we had goingout to Leadville 100. I planted the seed, now I’ll work on getting them out tothe Black Hills again. I don’t think it will be much of a problem. If so, Iwill go solo. That’s A OK. I never do crew/pacer, it is just fun to share thefun traveling.

After receiving the OK at home I needed the OK at work. No problem, all of the vacation days have been approved.

The Gnarly Bandit Ultra Series begins with the Zumbro 100Mile Trail Race in April. There is added difficulty training for a spring 100in Minnesota. The trails arecovered in snow and snowshoe running 50 miles plain old sucks. I’ve done thattoo many times. After running McNaughton 100 for so many years, also in April,I really wanted to find a few races instead of long solo training runs of 10hours around the Minneapolis Lakes.

I found Triple D Winter Races last week. That put my longrun at marathon distance and it went so well! I’m still thrilled that I was able to go that distance witha pack and not feel disc pain. Woot. The only downside is that I ran with a horrible cold which has now turnedinto bronchitis and I have open wounds on the side of my feet where theKahtoola spike bands drove into my foot. I will survive! I’m very very please with the outcomeof this race. I did it!

The marathon distance has me ready for Psycho Wyco 50K inKansas City, KS on February 11. I’m so excited! I’ve signedup for this race two times before and never made it. I’m heading out with Maria and Doug.

Psycho Wyco 50K will have me ready for Land Between Lakes 50Mile in Grand Rivers, KY on March 10. It will be a blast! The only downside is that there is an11 hour pace cut off and I don’t know that I am in 11 hour shape. Most of my 50miles are less than 11 but it’s been a while since I’ve run one. I told Mistythat if we are cut off at 38 miles we’ll have to run around for 12 miles aroundthe area to get in our 50 for Zumbro 100 training!

After March 10it is all about recovering/tapering for Zumbro 100. I’m ready, man. I’m ready!

This is my plan:

Triple D Winter Race Marathon

Dubuque Iowa

January 15

Psycho Wyco 50K

Kansas City, KS

February 11

Land Between Lakes 50 Mile

Grand Rivers, KY

March 10

Zumbro 100 Mile

Zumbro Falls, MN

April 14

Kettle Moraine 100 Mile

LaGrange WI

June 2

Black Hills 100 Mile

Sturgis, SD

June 23

Superior 100 Mile

Lutsen, MN

September 7

Wild Duluth 100K

Duluth, MN

October 20

Included in the UMTR Ultra Gnarly Bandit Series

Triple D Winter Race Report

2012-01-16T12:04:00.001-06:00

About a week and a half ago I noticed that my back was healing at a much faster rate than it had been. What had been months of recovery and no running had morphed into pain free running. 0 mile weeks turned into 30, 35, 40, 45, 50 mile weeks. Amazing. I was feeling very very good.

I decided to enter Psycho Wyco 50K and am planning a road trip with Doug and Maria Barton mid February to KS for the event. I knew to be ready for this training run I at least needed to get in a 20 miler and hoped it wouldn't hurt.

Success! As I stated, last weeks 21.25 was sweet. That success had me thinking I could run marathon distance to be even more ready for the Psycho Wyco 50K.

I thought I'd rather run a race and use it as an aided training run for my next long run. Trail as opposed to pavement, not to far to drive. I contacted my friend Vicky to see if she was heading to Dubuque Iowa for Triple D. I knew that there was a group of friends that ran this last year. She told me that she would be there, along with Wayne and Misty. They invited me to come along. Score!

By perusing the blogspot for Triple D I learned that there was a half marathon, marathon and 50K distance for runners. The main event was a bike ride, they also welcomed skiing. The blog seemed to have information for 2010 and 2011 races and I was rather confused. I didn't worry too much because I was riding with Misty and they already had room reservations and such. I was just going along for a training run.

I came down with a terrible cold. One which I still have. I was hoping it would go away by Saturday but it did not. I packed cough drops, my inhaler that I haven't used since McNaughton 100 2007 and a ton of kleenex.

On Friday I tried to navigate the site and couldn't find information on aid stations. I contacted Wayne and learned the race was unsupported. Well, there went my aided long run theory. This worried me as I haven't trained AT ALL with a pack since I herniated my discs. Man, a headlamp hurt just a few weeks ago.

I chilled out and realized I would just take the marathon mile by mile. I promised myself that if I were to feel any tingling or numbness I would stop. Then I amended the promise to if I felt any pain prior to the last 30 minutes I would stop. I mean, come on, if I only had 3 miles to go and the pain began I might as well finish..the damage would be there what more would I do in 3 miles?

So, 26.2 miles on snow, no aid. I dug out my Superior 100 pack, numerous gels, Heed and 4 24 oz bottles. Ugh. My back hurt just looking at it.

Misty and I rode to Dubuque, having a great road trip. I have only met Misty once before so we had lots to talk about. What a great sport hu? To be welcomed to ride along, even though we've only met once and for a few minutes. Nice! The drive was about 5.5 hours. We met up with Wayne and Vicky and had a good time.

I learned that we could have finish bags at the end point. I found a bag and jammed it with my favorite warm clothing. My Ugg boots wouldn't fit. Wayne offered me space in his bag for my boots . I dropped my bag at the sign "RUN-U" and thought what is the U? I placed my bag next to Wayne's and didn't think about it anymore.

Don, Julie, Misty, Vicky, Wayne

Misty, Julie, Vicky

We had nice (unheated) busses to bring us to the start. The 4 of us had our own bus! On the way Wayne told me that the finish bags were for the 50K only. Shit! My stuff would be 6 miles away from my finish. I thought that once you made it to the marathon, you went out an additional 3 miles, came back 3 miles to the same finish for 50K/marathon. Oops. This gave me cause for concern. I think I just needed something to worry about.

Julie, Vicky, Misty

The morning was warm. We didn't begin until 10 AM so the sun was high, the wind was stiff. 20-30 MPH winds but it was 20 above already so plenty warm. I lugged my pack onto my back hoping it would be OK. We started late, like 1030 so now I was worried about it being dark when I finished and I hadn't even thought to carry a light. Did not even cross my mind. Am I a newbie or what?? How could I not have a light? Good grief. Something more to worry about.

Because Dubuque received 7" of snow on Thursday I decided to stop by REI on Saturday on the way to Misty's to pick up some Katoola Spikes. I have never used anything like this but thought of all of the slipping and sliding I did at Tuscobia 50K last year. I figured they couldn't hurt, might as well give them a try even though I normally don't try anything new on race day, but this was training run day.

The Mayor of whatever town we were in had a few words to say and then GO! We headed out along a paved path through a park or something. Oh man, don't let this whole marathon be upon a cement paved trail..PLEASE.

After a while the cement went away and we were on a crushed gravel trail with snow in most areas. It reminded me very much like the trail at Lean Horse 100-that constant downhill grade, limestone gravel. Only this was 80 degrees colder, 30 MPH wind and snow covered.

My spikes were fine, I think they kept me steady upon the snow, I'm not sure. I didn't slip and slide like I did at Tuscobia. After a few hours they did cause my little toes to become smashed. I lost both nails already.

Before I knew it I was last in the pack, just fine with myself. I was taking in the sunshine, smiling, trying to notice if my pack felt too heavy.

I became warm. I removed my neck gaiter, had and mittens. Pretty soon the wind would whip up and I'd replace it all.

My strategy was to drink .5 bottle of Heed every hour. This would give me plenty of drink to get through the race. I had sweet potato in ziploc, gels, banana. Plenty of calories.

I thought the course was picturesque. We ran along different creeks, crossed many wooden bridges, ran past a ski hill with lots of artificial snow and there were many high walls of rock. I was surprised at how pretty the course surroundings were.

My cold was horrible. I couldn't breathe. My head was so congested it gave me a head ache. Eventually the running loosened up all that was in my head and begin to drain. It felt better but was totally disgusting. It was a good thing I was running by myself. I needed to stop often to get over coughing fits. The drainage felt better than the congestion.

At one point I was running along and I could hear a dog barking. I looked to my left and saw a black lab puppy refusing to get into a man's truck. The guy could not catch him. The dog spotted me running and tore after me. I began to panic. I noticed it was a pup, so he probably wasn't going to be mean, but still...who knows. I kneeled down and removed my sweet potato from my pocket extending it out to the puppy just in case he wanted to bite me. He just wanted to lick the salt from my face! What a cute puppy. I waited there until the man finally reached us and he could grab puppies collar and get him back to the truck. So cute. So thankful it wasn't a mean dog.

A few miles later I saw three dogs together without a person. Oh boy. I slowed to a walk and kept an eye on them. They all looked my way but didn't care about me one way or another. I happily walked past and continued on.

As I came upon mile 20 I looked to my left again and noticed little statutes of people into a rock. Here someone had set up a miniature nativity scene right into the rock. It was pretty cool.

I was feeling good, euphoric that I was able to run this distance with this pack and feel no pain.

As I came into mile 22 I knew that a bar was going to be coming up where I was supposed to check in. I hadn't seen another runner since the start so was wondering if I would even see anyone at the check in. I walked into the bar and two women were sitting at a card table. I checked in with them and they told me I could order anything I wanted to eat or drink..the race had a tab set up where for the runners. What? Wow. Nice thought but I didn't want to hang out here..I just wanted to run. I learned here that they had mistakingly registered me as an ultra runner for the 50K. She said 'you are an ultrarunner' I said 'yea, I am, but I'm running the marathon today.' 'No, you are running the 50K' 'ah, no. I registered for the marathon' I wasn't going to argue with her so I just told her I was going to head back out. She was very nice and I thanked her for helping us out. I just wanted to move on. I began to realize the reason there was a U on the finish bag sign-for the ultra runners running 50K, duh. It all began to click. They had me down as running the 50K. Oh well. As I was about to go out the door I saw Misty turn around from the bar. She had reached the checkpoint before I and decided to head back out with me. I'm so glad that I noticed her.

We ran along for the next three miles going over each other's run. It was nice to run with company for the first time during the race. My cold was so bad I couldn't talk and breathe and run at the same time. I was coughing real hard by this point and my head was draining profusely. I was grossing myself out.

Before we knew it we saw Wayne running toward us, off for the 50K. Misty decided to finish at the marathon with me. We hugged Wayne and wished him well. He finished in fine form.

Misty and I climbed the final hill and saw our finish at the bar. We checked in, I ordered a diet coke and we relived our fun day!

By now I couldn't speak without coughing. I took a few puffs of my inhaler and it seemed to help a bit. We visited with Melissa, who finished her first trail run. Melissa offered us a ride back to the hotel. We stopped by the 50K finish where I retrieved my bags and off to the hotel we headed.

Misty and I hauled our things to her car and headed for home. Driving was icy in some spots and a semi pulled out in front of us. Misty is a cautious driver much like I. I felt very safe! I arrived home last night about midnight.

I feel great today! My cold is still awful but my back does not hurt AT ALL. I am so glad I decided to try this run. Even thought I anticipated aid, it worked out for the better. Now I know I can carry my pack without pain. Good stuff.

The spikes tore off two of my toenails. I think the bands put pressure on my toes, making the fit inside of my shoes too tight. I wore thick smartwool socks. During the run I tried to move the socks around, trying to alleviate the pain. I couldn't get my running shoes over my painful toes this morning so I headed off to the trail with Topaz in my big sorrel boots.

Now I'm really looking forward to Psycho Wyco 50K next month. I should be able to pull it off.

Thanks to the Triple D RD, the volunteers, runners and bikers. It really was a fun day!

Stringing Small Successes Together

2012-01-09T08:17:00.001-06:00

I am just thrilled. The little things that I have in thepast taken for granted, then lost, are returning. I no longer take them forgranted.

I have been able to wear the heavy Turkish bath towel uponmy head after shampooing. It no longer pains my neck.

I ran with a headlamp last week to see how it felt. A fewweeks ago it was too heavy; last week it was just fine. No pain.

My Hammergel order! I haven’t used my credit I receive from Hammer Nutrition is over a year.I ordered two cases of gel and heed. Woohoo. The small victories. Yes, I loveHeed.

My foam roller! I reclaimed it from Troy’s XBOX area. He has been using it for a footrest. I used it yesterday after my 21.25 mile run! Woohoo!

My left side is still weak. I have been strengthening itwith weights a few times a week but it’s still a weakling. I’ve been trying to carry a bottleduring my runs as I don’t care for hydration vests. During my 4 hour run yesterday I carried with my left arm atleast half of the time. I can feel muscle fatigue today but it will becomestronger.

My weekly mileage is increasing. 35 miles, 42 miles, 47miles, 50 miles. Nice !

Guarded Optimism

2012-01-04T17:36:00.000-06:00

What. A. Day!

As I packed my workout bag this morning I found myself trying to contain my excitement. It kept rushing out of my mouth as laughs and smiles, out of my body as I danced up the stairs to awake Troy. He didn't find it quite so amusing!

I haven't run the pavement route around Big Lake in .. well .. a real long time. It's something that I have been doing for as long as I've been running. I've taken it for granted. When I don't have time to get to the trail I run around Big Lake, after work. The route I run is the Big Lake 8K course which takes place in June.

42 degrees forecast today. No wind. Sunshine. Amazing.

I placed my run shoes, light run pants, single long sleeved top into my bag. iPod, charger-had to charge up at work-I haven't needed my iPod for quite some time.

During the day I found myself anticipating my run. Would the asphalt hurt? Would I have to stop? Would I love it as much I used to?

Would Troy and the guys have to wait very long for me? Troy and his friends were lifting after school. I drive them home, we meet at the car at 345. I told him it might take me until 4 to finish today's run. He was fine with this and wished me good luck :)

As I clocked out and carried my bag to the restroom I thought of all the prep this took. Packing my bag, charging my iPod, water bottle, hanging up work clothes, changing into run clothes, pack away winter coat, boots, work shoes, put on run shoes. Hair tie. Sunglasses. Haul bag, purse, etc. out to car, leave open for Troy and boys.

OK, lets do this Julie.

Weeeee!!! Off I go. Diggin' it.

Bluebird blue sky, sunshine, no wind. A perfect day. It's winter! This is a perfect day in Spring as well. Running along the road, feeling no pain. No crunch of the discs, no numbing of arm, hand, no tingling in fingers. Oh my gosh. I have missed this so much. This was a part of my day, my being. It just was. Today I prepared and thought about it all day. It will again just be a part of my day.

As I was running I began to think of the first race I ever ran. It was right here. The Big Lake 8K in 1998. Run Club with my dear friend Ann, God bless her soul. She passed of cancer 6 years ago next month. Running with Topaz on these roads when he was a pup, we were waiting for Tyler to take his guitar lessons. Coaching my beginning woman run classes upon this route.

Still no pain, just joy. Joy in running, breathing, seeing, feeling.

As I ran along I saw Heidi! Heidi was in one of the first classes I coached, she continued with a second class and I began to coach her privately. She has since run Ragnar Relay and even Twin Cities Marathon. Heidi is getting back to running after going through chemotherapy and is looking so strong and beautiful. We stopped and chatted. We spoke of how thankful we were to be out running. We get it. We know how the other feels. We know what running means to us. It isn't just running, it is everything than goes with it. It is everything that we almost lost, but it is coming back and we are joyful.

We separated and I just couldn't help but feel this run was just meant to be. I am so very grateful to have experienced it.

I arrived back to the parking lot, to my car. I could see Troy and the boys inside waiting. I wondered how long it took me? I purposely hadn't worn a watch. This wasn't a timed run. This was run to gauge my recovery. I opened the door and Troy said he could see my smile as I turned the corner. I asked him what time it was. 5 minutes earlier than I had anticipated. He asked me if I hurt. No, no pain. He gave me a high five and said "You are back, Mim. You are back".

We dropped off the boys, arrived home. Mexican chicken in the crockpot would hold for another 30 minutes. I took Topaz for a neighborhood spin. 3 miles, more pavement and no pain. I like to think I'm back, too.

Feeling gratitude. Gratitude and Joy.

Reflection: 2011

2011-12-29T12:49:00.000-06:00

Wow, here I am, 7 years have passed since the day I beganthis blog. I don’t know if I ever thought this blog would be alive after all ofthis time. There have been points in time when it has laid low, when it haslicked its wounds; there have been points when it has been flying high, withthe world by it’s tail.

That’s life in a nutshell, isn’t it.

2011 has been ayear like none I have had since I began posting here. I went into 2011 wondering if I hadovarian cancer. A complete,radical hysterectomy in January showed that I didn’t thank goodness. I slammedinto menopause. I began 7 weeks of recovery, began to run again, halfmarathons, marathons, 50Ks and then the dreaded herniated discs arrived and yetanother recovery.

The hysterectomy recovery turned out to be uneventful. Sevenweeks of laying low, walking, flat on my back most of the time. I later learnedthat the time on my back with my chin pointed toward my chest as I was watchingTV or iPhoning probably herniated two of my discs. My gynecologic surgeon and neurosurgeon bothcame to this conclusion. As I look back it now makes sense.

I’ve received many questions via email, FB,etc. relating to the herniated discs and the recovery process. It was horrible.I’ll go into detail here to answer many of the questions.

When I came back to work in March, after 7weeks of medical leave, I noticed that I felt pain in my left elbow whenanswering the phone. I hadn’t yet started to run or lift at this point. I rearranged my work desk so that Iwould be answering my telephone with my right arm. A few days later I commented that my left index finger feltnumb and my hand tingly. I couldn’t figure this out.

I began to run and noticed that when I did Ihad a ‘falling asleep’ feeling from my elbow down to my fingers .. thiscontinued for weeks. I didn’t knowwhy and didn’t make any medical appointments. I think I was ‘all doctoredout’.

I remember running the Minneapolis Marathonin May, so happy that I was again running, so thrilled that the hysterectomyhadn’t taken me down and hadn’t shown cancer. I also remember having to pass mywater bottle hand to hand because the left one kept falling asleep. I kepttrying to shake it out, it wouldn’t shake out.

In July I ran the Afton 50K and felt the samesymptoms of the herniated discs but didn’t know what it was. I was beginning toworry I had MS or something. Itook the race slow, but finished the crazy Afton Alps course, I was happy tohave made it but the pain in my arm worried me.

Finally by the end of July I couldn’t runanymore, it hurt too badly. The bouncing motion made my rhomboid area scream inpain. I thought maybe I strained my rhomboid. The pain at this point washorrific.

The first Dr. I saw was a GeneralPractitioner. It was he who thought I could have herniated discs. I wasstunned. I was scheduled for physical therapy in two weeks. He gave me someexercises to complete daily, a prescription for muscle relaxants and suggestedan MRI.

The MRI confirmed herniated discs and the doctorI saw this time spoke of surgery. I was resistant to this option. I decided toget an appointment at Mayo with a neurosurgeon. Why wouldn’t one go to the bestof the best, you know? I had myhysterectomy at Mayo and had as good of an experience as one could under thecircumstances.

In the meantime I woke up in the middle ofthe night and thought I heard Topaz stuck under my bed. Now I realize I wasdreaming. He can’t even fit under my bed. I have a Select Comfort and thereisn’t room for him under there.

I popped out of bed (OUCH!) began to pull onTopaz as he was sleeping on the floor next to my bed. As I pulled him I feltintense pain. I couldn’t move.

Eventually I made my way to the kitchen andjust stood there. I couldn’t cry, I would scare Troy, I couldn’t scream, whatgood would that do? I stood there wondering if I should get on the floor infetal position. It didn’t help. I hurt so badly and I didn’t know what to do. I was going to go out of my mind. Ihad all of the Oxycodone left from my hysterectomy. I hadn’t taken any. Iwondered if I should now?

I had Steve take me to the ER atPrinceton. The Dr. there told me Ihad probably suffered a muscle strain. Ah, no, I had an MRI and have herniateddiscs. Oh, well, I don’t think so, I think you have a muscle strain. I see youhave on a race shirt, you run, well, take some Percocet, some of the Oxycodonesome Aleve and you can run. Are you for real? I don’t need to run, I need to be able to get through thishour without pain. We left. Iwasn’t feeling much better but the Percocet he gave me as I walked through thedoor was taking the edge off.

I decided to try a chiropractor. Bad idea. Isaw one in Big Lake and he was a joke. I could barely walk into his office. Hetold me I had sprained my neck and asked me to take my shirt off, then to flexmy biceps as he stood there watching me. Are you kidding me? I left and didn’t go back. I shouldprobably report him to the Better Business Bureau or something. What the fuck?

My appointment at Mayo finally arrived. I sawa wonderful neurosurgeon who told me that only 10% of his patients who haveherniated discs are candidates for surgery. He showed me how to take care of myspine, how to get through my day, what exercises to complete. He told me I wouldrun again. He told me my pain would lessen. It could be 3 months, it could be 6months, it could be a year. Hetold me to keep my appointments with the physical therapist and that he wouldcontact me each week. He did. He was awesome.

The physical therapy went well. Traction wasmy new best friend and the healing began. It was slow. Here I am, 9 months since this all began, and finallyfeeling good.

That was a long report on the whole herniateddisc saga, I hope it answered some of the questions. It has had a big impact on2011 and what I want to do in 2012.

Now, when I run, I remember the pain. Iremember how I didn’t know if I would be able to run again. I remember how Itold myself I was OK with that. I just wanted the pain to be gone. If I wasable to run again, that would be icing on the cake.

I am enjoying the icing on the cake!

I am running and I have missed it so verymuch. I am humbled and I am so very grateful for every step I am now taking outin the woods.

This week Topaz and I ran our longest runsince I ran Afton 50K. We ran 20miles! I had no pain, no numbness.I was laughing, crying, yahooing the whole time. It was fabulous. It isfabulous.

As I turn 47 years old tomorrow I am thankfulthat I am looking at 2012 as a healthy person. I am not going into the New Yearas I did last year: a hysterectomy scheduled and hoping to hear I am cancerfree. I am thankful for so manythings. I am thankful for myfamily, for my health.

I won't be running my birthday years in miles as I normally do each birthday, but hey, at least I can run..right? I will reach my highest mileage this week in a long time. It will be 47 miles. Tomorrow we are celebrating my birthday at Pittsburgh Blue. I'm looking forward to it.

I have many plans to reach my goals for 2012.I’ll keep most of my goals private except for my running plans. That is wherethis blog began.

For so many years my daily calendar has been Tyler and Troy.I gave up the plush corporate office to stay at home for years and then beganto work at the public school so that I could have the same hours as my boys. Thedaily calendar is letting me lose. With Tyler out of the nest and doing so wellat college, with Troy not far behind, I find that I am craving more structurefor myself. I find that I am having difficulty filling my day. My routine forso long has been my children, my purpose has been their care, their nurturing.I’ve done well. They have wings with which to fly. They soar.

For 2012 I’m ready to go big running wise. I have had plenty of time to thinkabout what I want to accomplish while running in 2012. I have a final goal and am creating the detailedplans to get to the outcome I desire. I am pulling out my calendar and puttingtogether my plan. Once I have itset in stone, I’ll let you in.

Training began a few weeks ago. I lovetraining, and oh, how I have missed it! The only difference between running and training is a written plan. Ihave written the plan, I am putting in the miles. With training comesdiscipline, scheduling, a sense of achievement, where I find joy. I find that while I am trainingeverything else falls into place.

Cheers to 2012!

Daring Bakers: Sourdough Starter Bread

2011-12-27T11:57:00.002-06:00

Our Daring Bakers Host for December 2011 was Jessica of My Recipe Project and she showed us how fun it is to create Sour Dough bread in our own kitchens! She provided us with Sour Dough recipes from Bread Matters by AndrewWhitley as well as delicious recipes to use our Sourdough bread in from Tonia George’s Things on Toast and Canteen’s Great British Food!

I began to bake bread quite frequently after I purchased The Bread Baker's Apprentice by Peter Reinhart. It's a fabulous bread baking book. I use it every month, at least, but have never used sourdough starters. They kind of grossed me out. I mean, really, flour and water fermenting for days..or years..to get a rise out of bread? Kind of ishy, I thought.

To get a sourdough to ferment I needed a warm space, which is difficult in December in Minnesota. 86F is ideal. My house is never 86F, even in August. I mixed up 1/3 cup of rye flour and 3 T of water to begin this science project and placed the tupperware container in Troy's bathroom, near the vent. Troy's bathroom doesn't have any window, no drafts so it is about the warmest place in the house during the winter months.

Each morning I added 1/3 c of rye flour + 3T of water and mixed, watching for life. Eventually I did find a few bubbles and my mixture smelled yeasty. Tyler arrived home for the Christmas Holiday and asked what in the world was that bubbly smelly stuff in his bathroom? I knew it was finally ready!

It just seemed so strange to me that I wasn't using yeast in this bread. The sourdough starter creates it's own yeast from the bacteria floating around my house, apparently. Interesting.

I wasn't completely into this experiment until I watched my bread rise in the oven today. Yeah, the bakers are correct, sourdough does create it's own yeast. What a concept, hu? I didn't use all of the starter so now the remainder just hangs out until I decide to make another sourdough bread, which will probably be next week!

Here is my creation! Not too bad for a first time, if I do say so myself. Doesn't it look light, for a rye flour? I thought it would be a dark bread, like a pumpernickel. I was wrong. I really do love to bake breads. Thank you to Jessica to giving me the nudge I needed to try a sourdough. I no longer this of it as a gross science project :)

Be sure to visit Jessica for the complete recipe and details.

Listen. Do You Hear That?

2011-12-14T11:20:00.001-06:00

Yes, two posts in one week. Woohoo! Something must behappening with me, right?

Yes. Something is. It is improvement. Improvement that I amable to see, to feel, to celebrate!

For the first time since July I have been able to stringtogether FIVE, yes FIVE running days in a row. That is BIG in this world ofmine. I don't feel any pain!! Just a tiny bit of numbness in my index finger.

Yesterday after work Topaz and I headed off to my oldrunning grounds. I wanted to try running on gravel road, just to see how Iwould hold up. In the past I haverun miles upon miles on this gravel road as there are many dirt trails that areoffshoots and easy to access. I ran hundreds of miles here while training for Lean Horse where I ran my 100 mile PR of 21 hours.

Yesterday’s run was awesome! I was able to run fartleks for the first time in a longtime! I ran a full 90 minutes upon the gravel without any pain.

At every trail intersection where Topaz and I have turnedonto in the past he stopped and looked at me, waiting for the direction. He remembered.

As we finished up our run, walking a cool down, I said “Topaz. Do you hear that? It is mysoul. It is singing. “

Achooo!

2011-12-12T11:32:00.001-06:00

No, I don't have a cold, I am blowing the dust off of my blog. It's been far too long since I've visited you, dear blog, so sorry. I have been updating via FaceBook, the new kid in town.

I've received numerous email and messages from my dear blog readers, and I thank you for each and every one! I began this blog 8 years ago as a tool to share with others the awesome fact I had uncovered: Yes, you CAN run if you WANT to! Yes, you can run a marathon, a 100 miles, a 5K IF you want to! It was news to me, really! I wanted to spread the word.

Well, with all of the recovery going on this past year I didn't have all that much running going on in my life and didn't want to bore with the other details of my life.

I can not believe how this year took me right off of the trail. Wow. The hysterectomy wasn't so bad as I made the choice to have the surgery and would do so again in a minute. It was a good decision. I was able to plan for my recovery, knowing full well that I was going to lay low for 6 weeks and would slowly ramp my running back up over time. I entered the Team Ortho series and that kept me on track.

I'm very happy that I was able to run a few halfs, marathons, 50Ks and even tried my first few tri's. Awesome!

Then the dreaded occured. The herniated discs. Ugh. The unknown recovery, pain and turmoil that took place within me was something I have never experienced before. The numerous Dr's, quacks, chiros, PTs are too numerous to count.. but I am now on the other side. Thankfully.

As I look upon this past year it is with mixed emotions. I feel pain and sadness but I also feel gratitude and joy. Gratitude and Joy win!

On the bright side, I am not dying from an illness, I am otherwise healthy. My discs are healing! Last Sunday I caught a glimpse of my former self. I ran 10 miles with Dear Topaz, I lifted weights, working shoulders for 45 minutes AND I headed off to CorePower Yoga and was able to complete the full 90 minute heated beginner class. JOY. I drove home with tears rolling down my cheeks and a smile upon my face, telling Steve and Troy all about it. Gratitude.

I am slowly building my running miles. Today is the 4th day in a row that I have been able to run. Small victories! I'm stringing together the good days just as when I first began to run 12 years ago. I'm thankful for each day.

Of course I'm disappointed that I won't be pulling a sled for Tuscobia 75 this next weekend but I am planning out my 2012 season. I mailed off an entry for a race in January. I am taking the calendar out and making my list. I've missed the planning, the anticipation and oh how I have missed the training. Training. What a sweet word. It brings such great memories, feelings of strength, power, agony. Love Training.

Yesterday I suffered my first BONK in ages. While I've been recovering I've cut my calories so I wouldn't have weight to lose on top of everything else. Yesterday was a big huge reminder as to how important nutrition is. As if I didn't know this. My body isn't the same as it was before this past year. I can no longer run 20 miles on water. Nor can I run 20 miles (soon!). My body needs to learn to use fat again for energy. I had a cup of coffee and headed out, knowing I was going to run 11 miles. I made it 6 miles before that carb crash feeling reared its ugly head. I was stunned. Seriously? 6 miles. Yes, 6 miles, this is an untrained body, remember, give yourself a break was the talk going through my head. OK, I brought along 1 gel and was bummed that it was a Montana Huckleberry and not an Espresso. I didn't look, I just grabbed it from the glove box where a full box has resided for the past 6 months. I was lucky I had the 1. I was still bonky but at least my legs were doing their thing, even if my brain wasn't. I suppose I used most of my glucose for my brain in my legs. Oops.

Today Topaz and I headed out for another long (in this world of mine) run. Today I had berries and cream, coffee prior to running. I carried water and Vespa with a few gels. I was good to my body and it rewarded me with a great run. Nice.

I'm getting better..and I'm liking this. Training. Training!

Pumping Iron and Running Trail

2011-11-05T17:34:00.004-05:00

Each day that passes brings me closer to a full recovery of these herniated discs. I very seldom feel any pain from my spine these days. I only feel nerve pain going down my arm into my fingers a few times a day, usually while driving. I no longer have a numb hand. Thank goodness!

Two weeks ago schools were closed for MEA. Being the goal setter that I have become these past 10 years, I decided I wanted to run 4 consecutive days. I was off Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Why not try to run each day, right? Thursday and Friday went great. I ran 5 miles each day with Topaz at Lake Maria State Park and it was fabulous. Saturday came along and after about a mile I began to have quite a bit of tingling and numbness. I stopped running immediately and began walking, the nerve pain went away. Thankfully. I was fine the remainder of the day, no additional pain. Sunday came along and I was able to run another 5 miles, no problem. I'll take it! If I am able to run two days in a row without pain and need to take a day off before I run again, I am fine with that. I truly am thankful just to be out in the woods, able to run whenever I can, and will walk when I must.

I began going back to Gold's two weeks ago as well. It was a big moment for me. I recalled vividly the last time I was there. Troy warned me not to go and lift. He could see that I was in pain, but I told him "I'm only going to lift legs" ... famous last words. That was 3 months ago and I hadn't been back in the gym since. I was in so much pain.

I started by working full body-light weight, high reps. I had minimal nerve pain, it really wasn't too bad. It was there though and let me know when to stop. I found that I could use the elliptical machine without much pain but oh how boring is that? Staring at myself in the mirror while on that machine drove me insane. No thanks.

The next visit to the gym was a repeat, full body, light high reps. Minimal nerve pain. I was just happy to be back, but at the same time, I was upset at my level of fitness, it had really declined.

Last week was better. I broke my lifting into 2 body parts and began with bi/tri. My right arm is as strong as it was, but oh boy, my left arm has a case of muscle atrophy. I don't know how the muscle and nerve is all connected but it has certainly done a number on my strength. It can't ONLY be because I didn't use my left arm for a while, it's not like I had it in a sling for 12 weeks but boy, by the loss of strength, one would think it had been casted for 12 weeks.

Bi's went OK, I can DB curl 30-35 lbs with my right arm, then for left...10 pounds! 10 and it was shaking like a frickin' leaf. I was on one hand, devastated by my loss of strength, but on the other hand, happy that I was able to at least be in the gym, working toward a higher level of fitness. It felt good to be back.

Tri's were something else. Right arm, no problem, no loss of strength, I maintained it. So glad I continued to eat all of the protein and take the BCAAs :) Left arm, sad. Skull crushers: lay back on bench, right hand, 20 pounds, I grabbed a 10 for my left. Big mistake. As I began the motion toward my head, bending my elbow, the weight totally took over my strength, pulling my arm past my ear, my hand dropped the dumb bell and hit my face, crashing to the floor. Thankfully it only nicked the side of my face, along my hairline. I couldn't believe it. I sat up, looked at myself in the mirror (the whole wall is a mirror and I was facing it) and just watched the tears roll down my face. I felt SO sad, angry and weak. I felt like a failure for some time, then collected myself and walked to the rack, taking a 5 pounder. I was just glad it wasn't a pink dumbbell. I was able to complete the movement with the 5 pounder. As I was working my tricep I felt it cramp, like a charlie horse. I had to massage it out. I completed a few other tri exercises, mostly went through the motions with light weights and reminded myself about the last time I lifted and how much pain I was in. I reminded myself that I was no longer in pain, I was here at Gold's, working my muscles, I was taking the first steps to becoming strong. I checked my tears, my sadness and began to smile. It really was good to be back!

Since then I've noticed that my muscle memory is coming back. My shoulders and arms are beginning to look strong, to be strong. My pushups are better, I don't have to have all of my weight on the right side. My workout today was chest and although I struggle with the left arm strength I know it will come back. If this was easy I wouldn't want any part of it.

After a good hard chest workout I came home to pick up Topaz. We headed out to Lake Maria for a run. What a beautiful afternoon! Wind blowing around the autumn leaves, a high of 60 degrees, just fabulous! We ran 7 miles without a twinge of pain. Tomorrow I'll try it again.

So yeah, pumping iron and running trails..less than before, more than last month. I'm truly grateful to be able to lift and run again. Man, how I have missed both. I'm looking forward to beginning a Crossfit class next.

The Daring Bakers: Povitica

2011-10-27T20:50:00.001-05:00

The Daring Baker’s October 2011 challenge was Povitica, hosted by Jenni of The Gingered Whisk. Povitica is a traditional Eastern European Dessert Bread that is as lovely to look at as it is to eat!

I was excited to learn how to make Potica, which is what we have always called this bread dessert. My mom and dad have made it for a few years and my grandmother before that. We usually serve it during the holidays.

Povitica (pronounced po-va-teet-sa) is traditional Eastern European dessert bread that is traditionally served during the holiday season. It is also known as Nutroll, Potica, Kalachi, Strudia, just to name a few. Family recipes, and the secrets on how to roll the bread so thin, was passed down through generations of families.

My dough wasn't rolled thin enough. I thought it was, but in looking at others, wow, theres is really super thin looks so cool.

I completely forgot that I froze two loaves to take out tomorrow as my parents are here before they head out for South Texas tomorrow for the winter. Here I made Oreo Brownies and Spider Cupcakes, too. I guess we can never have enough dessert!

Be sure to visit Jenni athttp://thegingeredwhisk.blogspot.com/ to see the recipe and her Povitica.

We all thought this was delicious!

I Feel Good

2011-10-07T11:12:00.001-05:00

Whoa-oa-oa! I feel good, I knew that I would, now
I feel good, I knew that I would, now
So good, so good, la la la …

Yes indeed. I feel so much better than I have in the past 10weeks. I can’t believe it has been that long since I ran. Or lifted. Or swam.Or biked. Yikes. I’ve been living a sedentary lifestyle since this herniateddisc business.

I often ask myself what in the hell do people do all daylong if they aren’t being active, training for something, participating insport? Other than family, work, etc.

I have WAY too much time on my hands. Over the years I’vebecome quite a great scheduler. I’ve become very organized and have never hadthe problem of not having enough time to do all that I want to. I have the same24 hours as others do, I fit all that I want to into them. I never feelstressed out or rushed for time.

By not training 20+ hours a week recently I have had anexcess of time on my hands. I haveenjoyed attending ALL of Troy’s football games, I’ve even worked the sidelinesas part of the chain gang. He plays three games a week, it’s been a blast. He’salso playing fall baseball so I’ve been able to attend all of the Sunday doubleheaders as I haven’t traveled to any races. I’ve loved it! This Sunday is the last of fall ball.Boo!

A few weeks ago I decided I wanted to start quilting again.I have purchased all of the material and have cut it all out. I’ll begin to sewit this weekend.

Happily, I finally ran last Saturday. Yup, a full 5 miles. Ididn’t have any pain, I didn’t hurt afterwards, it was awesome. Although I had entered Twin CitiesMarathon I didn’t run it on Sunday. See, I’m being smart. I didn’t go from 5miles to 26 in a day. I am also entered in the Team Ortho Half Marathon the endof the month, I don’t know whether I’ll be attending or now. Slow but sure. I’mnot pushing anything this time around. I really pushed after my hysterectomyrecovery to run the ½ a few weeksafter my first run. Not this time.

Tomorrow I’ll head over to Gold’s. I haven’t lifted in 10weeks. I’ll lift full body and light light light. I won’t rush right into the90 lb DB shoulder shrugs or the 500 lb leg press. Slow and sure and smart,right.

I still feel a bit of tingling and numbness in my arm andhand but it is only off and on during the day, it isn’t constant and it doesn’tbring me to my knees.

During the past few weeks I’ve tested grains and myinflammation theory and it proves my theory every time. I imagine once I amfully healed I won’t notice the inflammation as much, but I do now. I’m sticking to a paleo diet, the past30 days has been a breeze and it makes me feel good, so good, like I knew thatI would now….

An Interesting Experiment

2011-09-14T15:01:00.000-05:00

During the past couple weeks I’ve become very aware as to how my diet accelerates or minimizes my pain.I’m not having nearly as much pain as I was having in the earlier weeks. I would categorize the pain level at a 4, which is a huge improvement as I had been at a pain level 8 for far too long.

Over the past few weeks I’ve found that when I eat grains-good whole grains-such as steel cut oats, brown rice or nice fresh corn on the cob, I begin to feel more pressure in my spine which in turn leads to more nerve pain descending down my arm and into my hand.

One evening we met Tyler and Amanda for dinner at Granite City . I had a slice of bread, well, maybe two, with my salad and I couldn’t believe the inflammation I suffered from the next day. At first I thought it could have been from the sodium that was probably in the grilled chicken, and in part could have been. In my notes (yes, I journal everything) I jotted down how miserable the pain was and wondered why it had accelerated.I continued to jot down how I was progressing, activity, diet, etc. In looking at my notes I finally realized that when eating grains I was indeed suffering more pain the next day.

I consume essential fats and take EFAs which reduce inflammation. I have since researched grains and the effect they have on inflammation. It’s too bad that my PT or Dr or someone had shared this information with me when I first injured my back. Maybe they didn’t know, maybe it is a farce, maybe I am making it up in my head. No.

Of course, in correct doses inflammation is a boon, necessary for healing and protection of germs and other foreign invaders. As my discs heal, I probably won’t be so sensitive to grains. Time will tell.

Because I’m not running 100 miles a week at this time whole grains aren’t at the top of my list of foods to be consuming so they aren’t that hard to limit or cut out. I’m eating meats, vegetables, fats, fruits and nuts. I know, right! Where's the raw, the vegan? Still whole, organic, healthy foods. I added meat back in a while ago. I’ve gone off the Splenda (again) and I’m feeling really well. I’ve even begun the Challenge to give me something to focus on besides healing. Lord knows I’m not focusing on running or lifting or yoga or CrossFit right now, sad but true. It will come, it will come!

Not Feeling So Superior

2011-09-10T19:45:00.001-05:00

Sadly I am not at the Superior Trail Races this weekend. I still feel quite a bit of pain in my back as well as nerve pain going down my arm. I'm not sure which is worse. Both are especially horrible when I drive. The drive to Lutsen was just too much for me.I forgot that I hadn't updated this blog in quite some time, I guess I update Facebook much more often. I have had four sessions with my Physical Therapist. Traction is my new favorite activity. Friday I had 30 minutes and it was awesome. As the device pulls my head from my neck, the spaces between my discs is lengthened, removing the pressure from my nerves. Ah, relief! After Fridays session I didn't feel pain for an hour, a great improvement!I progress every day. Last week I was still devouring Advil first thing in the morning with an ice pack to my neck. I was taking pain reliever every four hours. I haven't had any today ;)Topaz and I have been able to get back out to Lake Maria for walks. I don't know when I'll be running again. Eventually. I find myself missing my active self so very much. My day began with an easy run with Topaz, lifting at the gym, maybe a hard run in the PM, some, yoga at CorePower. I REALLY miss CorePower! More so than Gold's. I can't wait to get back to CorePowers vinyassa hot yoga. My body is craving that stretching and my mind needs the focused intent. I may try the beginning vinyassa next week. It's been difficult, that is for certain. I put away the idea of racing this weekend but I surely thought I'd go up to Lutsen, spend the weekend aiding the runners, rooming with Alicia, Bill and Matt again. Not so. Chin up, right...it could be worse!

Canelake's Candy

2011-08-29T11:31:00.000-05:00

In appreciation of homemade candy and Steve's comment I had to post a photo of Canelake Candy in Virginia MN. Cheers to homemade candies!

Daring Bakers: Candylicious Candyland!

2011-08-28T14:58:00.001-05:00

The August 2011 Daring Bakers’ Challenge was hosted by Lisa of Parsley, Sage, Desserts and Line Drive and Mandy of What the Fruitcake?!. These two sugar mavens challenged us to make sinfully delicious candies! This was a special challenge for the Daring Bakers because the good folks at http://www.chocoley.com offered an amazing prize for the winner of the most creative and delicious candy!

Be sure to check out the link for Lisa above as she shows step by step how to make Hot Air (sponge candy) and how hers turned out and mine did not. It's interesting to see the differences.

I was so excited to find out that we were going to be making candy! We needed to create two forms of candy and one had to involve the tempering of chocolate. I have experience tempering as I make chocolate peanut butter buck eyes each Christmas that this family goes crazy over.

As a rather snobbish chocolate consumer I have only found a few truffles that I care for. I always claimed Godiva was my favorite, and yes, I still like Godiva, but with shopping over the internet I can find truffles all over the world and Godiva is no longer my number one.

I have never created a truffle so I was very excited to give it a whirl. Troy likes white chocolate (gag me). Each Valentines Day or Easter I buy a few pounds of Godiva White for him. He doesn't have to worry about me snatching any pieces from his stash!

I decided to try a combination of three different truffles: a white chocolate truffle using white ganache with white chocolate tempered coating, white chocolate ganache with milk chocolate tempered coating and semi sweet chocolate ganache with a dark chocolate tempered covering. Oh yeah.

They aren't beautiful, they aren't even perfectly round..I used a melon baller to scoop the ganache when firm, then rolled into the tempered chocolate to cover. In my next batch I'll add vanilla, maybe hazelnut praline, cinnamon. I used Guittard chocolate and it worked quite well. It doesn't hold a candle to the Belgian chocolate I can order, however.

For my second candy I tried what Canelakes of Virginia, MN (where I grew up) calls Hot Air. This is a boiling mass of sugar, corn syrup and water. After boiling for 10 minutes I removed it from the burner and added vinegar and baking soda for a volcanic effect! The mass created huge air bubbles which I poured into a baking sheet. After it hardened I broke it up to serve. This wasn't so great. It wasn't 'airy' enough and it was very crunchy. We ended up crushing it and using it for an ice cream dessert topping.

I really enjoyed this challenge. I will be making truffles quite frequently now. The combination of chocolates and additional flavorings is just endless. I have some chocolate in transit and can't wait to use it! Steve thought I should try a key lime ganache with bittersweet covering. I just might do it :)

Still Sidelined

2011-08-25T20:48:00.000-05:00

Last week I felt like I was coming along pretty well. Saturday I even walked a few miles of my running trails out at Lake Maria State Park. Topaz and I didn't have to fight a deer fly or mosquito. I spent a pretty sweet couple of hours out there.

I enjoyed the sunshine upon my face, the nice breeze, the beautiful scents of summer..but I wasn't grateful .

I took a few running steps but my back hurt so I continued walking.

I broke down in tears a few times whining to Topaz "why is this taking so long, why can't I be running..the Dr. told me I could take the prednisone, Aleve and RUN..whining and crying.."

I arrived home that Saturday and just felt down, sad, depressed that I wasn't running. I wasn't in pain. I was walking quite well, some nerve irritation from elbow to finger tip but I was feeling OK. I was disappointed in myself that I probably wouldn't be able to run Superior or the Minneapolis Duathalon.

Sunday I couldn't get out of bed. During the middle of the night Topaz had somehow wedged himself under the bed. I could hear him trying to remove himself, kind of 'paddling' with his front legs but not getting anywhere. I popped out of bed, too quickly I now assume, crawled onto the floor, stretched my arms around his back end and pulled him out. Oh the pain I felt.

I crawled back into bed and realized I was really in pain. Was it the pulling of Topaz? Shit. I couldn't move. I lay there until 5 AM and finally skooched from my bed with horrible nerve pain zinging all over my left chest, elbow to hand and fingers. Ugh. This hurt. My back was throbbing.

Eventually Steve brought me to the ER. I couldn't move. I couldn't breathe without pain. The ER Dr. told me that in addition to ruptured discs I probably had a strained or tore rhomboid muscle which is what I originally thought my problem was. I think I may have ripped it while weight training. You know, the 50+ pound DB shoulder shrugs might have been a bit much...

Dr. told me I should take the Oxycodone I had from my hysterectomy every 4 hours and with Oxy, Aleve, muscle relaxant I should try running because movement is good for me. I looked at him like he had two heads. Run, really? I couldn't walk much less run. Forget running. I want to walk and feel human again. Sheesh. Forget the Oxy. I'm an alcoholic, I don't need to become addicted to something else.

He discharged me after x rays, making sure that there were no bone splinters or whatever else it was that he was looking for. I couldn't believe a torn rhomboid could hurt so much.

Monday I decided to try a chiropractor. It hurt. He told me my neck was probably sprained. Good grief. My neck was stiff because I was over compensating with my neck for my sore back. Tuesday I was too sore to even go into work. Carol, bless her heart, gave me another massage that made me feel human again. Back to chiro yesterday for another adjustment but I noticed after that adjustment and today that the chiro just irritates the muscle. The nerve pain is out of this world. I hold my arm across my stomach, this settles the nerves some. I can't stand it.

I begin PT on Tuesday. I'm hoping the PT will give me a thorough examination and find out what is really going on here. I imagine it is both ripped rhomboid and herniated discs. I guess it doesn't matter how it happened, just that I heal.

I feel foolish for not enjoying my walk through the woods that beautiful Saturday last week. I feel like my whole world had changed since then. The pain, the frustration, the lack of activity, it is something that is foreign to me.

I am trying to forgive myself for not being grateful for enjoying the little things in life. Walking, the woods, being pain free. You would have thought I would be super grateful for every painfree step I had since my hysterectomy was only 7 months ago. Funny how quickly I forgot. I guess I needed a reminder.

I remember.

Herniated Discs

2011-08-16T15:11:00.000-05:00

Today I received confirmation that I have two herniated discs. Disc 5/6 and 6/7 which are located on the upper spine, near the neck.

I've had pain since March, really. I first noticed pain when I went back to work after my hysterectomy. I noticed my elbow hurt when answering the phone. I ignored it, felt my elbow needed to get back into shape. It probably did!

While running Minneapolis Marathon in May I noticed that my hand had prickly, electric probe like feelings while holding my water bottle. I realized my fingertips had been tingling for a while.

By the time Afton 50K rolled along my arm was beginning to have these electric jolts going from elbow to fingertips. I had to hold my arm to my body at many times during the race to alleviate the pain. I realized about this time that I should be seen by a Dr.

It seemed that the pain radiated from my rhomboid area. I wasn't having any problem lifting, so continued to do so.

A few weeks ago I was in quite a bit of pain. I couldn't lift or run without pain. I noticed that the up and down motion while running was very painful in the left rhomboid/down my lats area. The zinging from my elbow to finger tips was crazy and constant, my index finger now numb.

Today I learned that I have two herniated discs, no wonder I hurt! I will begin physical therapy and a dosage of steroids. I am hopeful to be on the road to recovery soon!

Razzyroo Giveaway!

2011-08-16T15:03:00.002-05:00

My goodness, I apologize for not posting the Razzyroo winners on August 1. I did notify my winners: Carol and Michelle and they did already receive their awesome headbands. I just failed to post it here.

Congratulations to Carol and Michelle. Let us know how you enjoy those headbands!

Daring Bakers: Fresh Frasiers

2011-07-27T14:58:00.000-05:00

Another month passes and another challenge with the Daring Bakers.

Jana of Cherry Tea Cakes was our July Daring Bakers’ host and she challenges us to make Fresh Frasiers inspired by recipes written by Elisabeth M. Prueitt and Chad Robertson in the beautiful cookbook Tartine.

I had intended on using fresh strawberries but when I was ready to create this challenge the berries were not yet ready to pick. Summer in Minnesota was a month late. This put our berry season back as well so I purchased cherries instead.

On the day that I decided to make this it was 103 degrees with a dew point of 81. Although I had the air going the inside air was still heavy. This may be part of the reason that my gelatin didn't 'gel' and my cream is more of a wet whip. I'm not really sure why I had a flop. Sometimes it just happens.

Troy and Steve both enjoyed this dessert. I am not into fruit and whip. If I'm going to have a dessert it will be heavy, dense, moist and chocolate :)

Here is my photo:

I almost tried this a second time and thought I'd add cocoa to the light cake layers with the strawberries that were eventually ready. Before I knew it the strawberries were eaten and the challenge date arrived!

Be sure to head over to Jana's blog to see how beautiful some of the fraisers turned out. If you are looking for a light fruity dessert this could be the one for you!

RazzyRoo Headband Review and Giveaway!

2011-07-25T14:50:00.002-05:00

Cheryl at RazzyRoo Headbands contacted me to see if I was interested in conducting a test, review and giveaway of her Razzy Roo headbands. Well, hell yeah! I wear headbands all summer long. I wear them with my hair loose and long and wear them while I also wear a pony tail-they keep the stray sweaty wet hairs from sticking to my eyes.

I don't think a day has passed this summer that I haven't had a headband on for some part of the day. The past few years they have become so pretty: I love pink.

I tried both the Pink Diva Glitter 7/8" band (of course) and the Funky Runner Shazam headband.

Pink Diva Glitter: Awesome! Not only is it pretty and glittery but it has a velvet black inside that helps to stay put. The velvet is soft and really keeps the band in place. I wore Pink Diva all day at the Minnesota Zoo and it didn't give me a headache as some of the other band do; they are just too tight. I wore Pink Diva multiple times to lift at the gym, then to run on the treadmill and I didn't have any stray wet sweaty hairs getting it my face. Perfect!

Shazam Funky Runner is a wider band, light and stretchy material with a tapered back where it is placed at the back of the neck. I found I used it to keep sweat off of my face, it caught my bug spray and sunscreen while running. Awesome! I washed it with my swimming suits on gentle in the machine and line dried it. It is just as bright as it was when I first received it.

I get compliments on these bands every single time that I wear them. The Funky Runner is only $5! You can't go wrong. The Glitter band is $12, a great buy for a perfect strip of glittery prettiness. Oh yeah, I like.

I will have TWO winners of TWO headbands. Here is how to become a winner:

Become a follower of my blog, if not already one + 1 entry
"LIKE" RazzyRoo Headbands on facebook HERE and let them know that Julie Berg Run On sent you + 1 entry
Leave comment here + 1 entry
Leave comment on my Facebook page +1 entry

Two winners will randomly be picked on 8/1/11. You will LOVE your RazzyRoo Headband! (i hope i did this correctly...)

BETA VI

2011-07-19T15:20:00.000-05:00

Wow, another BETA post! I would have never believed that the wonderful BETA weekend would have taken such a hold. 6 years so far, awesome. Thank you Scott Wagner for starting this 6 years ago. You'll have to go back to the other BETA posts for a history of what BETA is.

We were a group of 10 this year, heading up to our BETA house in Tofte, along the North Shore.

Check in is at 4 PM, I wanted to pick up the keys and have the house opened for the first arrivals near 5 PM.

I decided to run from Caribou Highlands on Friday. Some friends of mine were spending a few nights at Caribou Highlands so I was able to visit and borrow a shower! Good planning.

I ran from Caribou Highlands, to Oberg and back, 14.8 miles per the GPS. This route is along the 50K/25K/50M/100M Superior races so I know it like the back of my hand. It didn't disappoint. Such a beautiful trail. I spotted huge mushrooms, blueberries and raspberries. While picking berries I heard a thrashing in the woods and was afraid I'd find myself sharing the bush with Mr. Bear. Nope, Mr. Bear was Mr. Chipmunk! Ha!

The day was very humid and hot, a rarity for the North Shore, even in July. I was dripping wet and was struggling while climbing Moose Mountain and Mystery Mountain. My body is not the same as pre hysterectomy. I'm hot and sweaty all of the time and my heart rate is elevated while climbing. It is what it is, nothing I can do to change it. Just enjoy the surroundings around me and WALK. That's what I did.

I covered nearly 15 miles in 4 hours, took a cold shower and headed to the house. Maria, Doug and Bill arrived after I unpacked my gear and settled in. Nancy, Tom, Alicia and Jeffrey arrived next, then Guy and Jenny later in the evening.

For our run on Saturday, Nancy, Tom, Alicia and Jeffrey were headed to one end of the trail and the rest of us were headed for another. Doug was going to venture for a run on the trail with us instead of crewing which was a first. It was so great to have Doug running with us! When Doug mentioned he was going to run 11 miles instead of the 26 Maria, Bill, Guy and Jenny were going to tackle I quickly stated that I was in for 11 as well. I was feeling the Afton 50K two weeks prior and Friday's 4 hour run in my legs. 11 was perfect, I thought.

We dropped water and cars along the route and then began our run in Silver Bay. I love this section. Well, I guess I love all of the sections! Silver Bay to Tettegouche includes the Bean and Bear Lake overlook. So awesome and so many great memories of past races and past BETA's. We spoke of Pierre and John's crash here during BETA 1. Pierre stating "I'm Bonking!" John wishing for Red Bull! Good stuff.

By the time we reached 7 miles I was totally soaked and huffing and a puffing. My breathing was heavy, my heart rate was high and I was really having a hard time. I was sweating so heavily, as was everyone. It was hot and so so humid. Our bodies couldn't evaporate and cool in this humidity.

Bill lead the group and was quickly out of sight. Maria stopped to allow us to catch up atop a huge rock outcrop. I reached the top and just laid down flat on my back to catch my breath. Ugh. I stated that if we had a car right here I would stop and head back to the house. We were all going to be running out of water, it was so warm we were drinking more than planned.

I followed at the end of our train, winding up the trail. Eventually I told Doug to just keep on, I was going to take a walk break. I had to catch my breath. I couldn't run and breath correctly. I walked through a few shady areas, just taking in all of the beauty of the trail. I wasn't pissed off at all that I couldn't run through this, I was fine with walking along. This is just such a turn around for me. I have always loved running in the heat and humidity. My PR 100 Mile Race was at Lean Horse, at near 100 degrees. I found myself thinking deeply about many many things as I walked along. Eventually I began to zone out and wonder if I was on the correct route. I had better pay attention!

With the State Parks closed due to MN Government Budget disagreement, there weren't many people out on the trails near Tettegouche Park. I knew I was nearing the finish for me as signage posted the state park. Guy's car and water supply was at mile 11. I was so thankful to have made it this far! As I was coming down the end of the trail, Jenny was climbing back up to me, with a bottle of water in hand. Ahhh, I quickly drank the water she offered and called her my trail angel. As I came into the lot Doug poured me another bottle of water. Ah, refreshing! They had been resting 15 minutes before I arrived. Guy and Jenny decided to end the day at 11 miles too so we all took off and headed back to the house for more water and cold showers!

Doug, Guy and Jenny went back to pick up Bill and Maria. I believe Bill ran 18 and Maria 26. Lots of miles on a horrific humid day.

I hung out on the deck, reading, then walked along the rocks at our backyard, Lake Superior. It really was nice to be able to enjoy the house and landscape, not running all day into night. Nancy, Tom, Jeffrey and Alicia arrived with Tom and Alicia running 23 miles. Great work!

We had an incredible dinner, lots of fun conversation and made new friendships. Another BETA weekend, more memories and fun running. Next year: BETA VII!

*More photos posted on Facebook.

Graniteman Clearlake Triathlon

2011-07-09T15:02:00.000-05:00

Well, I never imagined that this triathlon would be so much fun! It truly was. I really thought that all of the fussiness would take away from the fun in moving. It didn't.

I completed my first and only 'open swim' up at the cabin over the holiday earlier this week. My sister Laurie and I, along with a cabin neighbor who swims the bay every day, Gabbi, swam the bay together. It was quite nice. Gabbi's husband followed along in the pontoon incase we needed help. This took away any panic I might feel.

No panic was necessary. We glided across Wolf Bay on Lake Vermilion effortlessly. It was great fun.

I've felt a bit dehydrated from the Afton 50K I completed last Saturday. I felt like I was coming around just in time for this race. Good thing.

This morning I loaded up all of my gear-so much stuff: bike, helmet, gels, HEED, iPod, run shoes, flip flops, swim cap, goggles. Man alive. I decided to complete the whole tri in the same clothing: run shorts, run top. Easy peasy. I'd bike in my running shoes and run in them. Double duty.

My first impression was that I was impressed and that I was wrong with the stereotype I have of triathlon races. This was VERY laid back. The race was full so I thought it would be crowded. It wasn't.

I was directed to a perfect parking place under a tree, near the lake and then wandered up to the visitor center to check in. I learned that I was in Heat 1. This couldn't be! Heat 1 was for the Elites, I had read this online. OK, I went to get my shirt, bag, number, visor, towel, cap, all this stuff and to be marked. They marked me in Heat 1.

I went back to my car and looked at my iPhone. Yup, Heat 1 is for the Elite. Not me. Back I went explaining that I am not Elite and that I think I should be in Heat 10. OK, back to marking and please add a ZERO to the ONE you marked upon my leg thank you very much :)

I packed two bags. 1 with bike stuff, 1 with run stuff. I hauled both bags, bike and helmet to the transition area. I saw a bunch of bikes and asked someone if I could just make any place my home. Sure thing. I put my bike upon the rack, laid out a towel to place my bags. Bike bag: run shoes, socks, bottle with 3xHeed, gel, helmet. Run bag: 2xHeed, gel, iPod, sunglasses.

OK, I'm ok with this. Feeling good, not rushed, not the cluster f+ck I imagined a triathlon would be. Yay!

I see my friend Susan! She is uber triathlete. It was cool to see her here. I wander down to the lake area in my flip flops. There is a good .5 mile walk to the beach where we start. I realize I am the only one with my race number pinned to my shorts. I realize I am the only one wearing running shorts. Oh well. I am a runner.

I ask someone near me if we should have numbers on at this point. Nope, it causes drag in the water. OK. I unpin myself and tuck my number into my gel alley of my cleavage in my top. Good storage area.

Continue walking on to the beach area. I removed my flip flops and place in Bin 10, for heat 10. So glad I have the correct heat number upon my engorged calf as I lifted calves and back yesterday.

OK, here is the deal: Heat 1 goes first in the water, they start, then we wait three minutes and Heat 2 goes. AWESOME! Plenty of spacing between us. I'm liking this.

I hear two women in back of me speaking of Brook who is training for IM WI. I have to ask "Brook Wheeler" OMG, yes! So cool. We chat for a while and become friends. They are in my heat 10, too. Heat 10 is women 40-49 I believe.

OK, so the heats are taking off and 10 is up. Into the water I go. It is warm!! GO! We are off swimming. I'm doing my tri, baby! I swim along, just as happy as a damn clam. Nobody is near me, I can clearly see the big pink banner on the other side of the lake .52 miles away that I am aiming for me. Piece of cake. Really.

18 minutes.

Pretty soon I am to the shore. Out of the water, run! To the bike area. Heats 1-9 are already out of here and there are only 11 heats. It's pretty empty. I go to my bike, wipe off my muddy feet, towel off, put on socks and run shoes, chug a LOT of my 3x Heed (3 scoops-super strong), eat a gel, place the helmet upon my head and walk my bike out to the OUT BIKE sign. I'm off to bike! This is really cool. I am just one big smile.

4 minutes.

I pedal along, it's windy. Real windy. I pass a few people, know that I have 15 miles so take it easy. I don't want to tire out. IT's really hilly. It is SUPER windy! Up some hills, an overpass over 94 in St Cloud, buzzing around, me and my bike. So fun. I love it, totally love it.

I chug off my HEED and see I'm at Mile 10 already. Wow. That was fun. A few more miles and it's time to run baby.

15 miles biking.

1 hour, 2 minutes.

I walk my bike back to it's home in the transition area and don't have to do too much. Take off the helmet, chug my HEED, eat a gel, feet are great, grab iPod. I'm outa here! Run baby run!

1 minute, 17 seconds

We run up a huge hill, past a few farms and guess what I see? A TOPAZ in horse form! A pinto with black ears, brown over the eye, white face and yes, merle eyes. I couldn't believe it! I went back to get a photo but Topaz Horsey was gone. Boo. Soo cool.

We run off the pavement and hit some gravel. Water at the turnaround and do it again. So awesome.

Alright, here is the finish line: "Julie Berg from Big Lake and she is smiling" darn right, that was a blast!

29 minutes.

I see the two women I met at the swim, they congratulate me and say they saw me on the course and comment that I was smiling the whole way. Oh yeah, that was great fun.

Final finish: 1:54

Julie Berg 239th/331entrants Group: 22/30 109/147 Swim: 18:07 T1: 4:03
Bike: 1:02:30 T2: 1:17 Run: 29:00 Final Time: 1:54:00

Yup, total blast. Graniteman Big Lake is August 6, then the Olympic distance at Lake Marian Oly Triathlon.

Next up is BETA VI!! It's BETA time again up on the Superior Hiking Trail :)

Afton 50K Race Report: Reroute: BRUTAL

2011-07-03T09:50:00.001-05:00

Oh man, what a day!

Because of the State of Minnesota shutdown (government couldn't pass a budget)the non essential areas of government are closed. This includes the State Parks. Afton State Park is the location of the Afton 50K.

John Storkamp, our incredible RD, could have just canceled the race. We would have expected it. Instead he chose to go through more planning and headache and was granted permission to hold the Afton 50K at the Afton Alps, just next door to the Afton State Park. SWEET!

This meant yes, that the race would be held upon the ski hills and mountain bike trails. Would it be more difficult that Afton 50K or easier. I knew it would be more difficult. In the past I have spent many a day getting in ski hill repeats-ouch, but never along with a 50K run. Lordy.

Parking was fabulous. When Bill P guided me into a spot I had to ask "Bill, is this a Team Ortho race?" It was awesome!

Afton Alps gave the race the chalet and all of the fixings for the day. Amazing.

I looked at the beginning of the course and saw the flags going right up the frickin' first ski hill. Really?

Yeah, really.

After mingling a short while we were ready to get this party started. I walked to the back of the line-yup, dead last. I didn't care if I was DFL today (deaf effing last) it was better than a DNF (did not finish) and that was my mantra going into and while running the race.

It was hot. I was already sweating buckets. I reminded myself to take SCaps today at the aid stations, which I normally don't do. My body is different after the hysterectomy a few months back. It sweats more among other things!

I found myself with Les Martisko, a runner in his 60s who I began my ultrarunning with. I always used to run with Les in my early races, then I moved toward the front, now I was enjoying company with him upon the trail again. We had great conversations during the first half of the first loop.

Pretty soon I was running with Tom Andrews and Pat Gorman. We finished out the loop together, I really enjoyed running with them. I was quite worried about the race after finishing this first loop in 156. Climbing the ski hills at the end was crazy bad. It was hot-at 830 in the morning-I was sweating and gasping for air. Shitpie.

Into the start finish to crazy loud cheering "JULIE" it was so awesome! All of my friends, what a great experience! My bottle was filled, I grabbed Scaps and Hammergels and was out of there. I needed to keep this pace. I had heard 9 hours was the cut off so off I went.

Pretty soon Tom caught up to me. He explained we should run the flats and downhills, walk the ups of course and that way we would get in under 9. He was right on. I climbed the switchbacks, ski hills and ran the flats-which were few-as was shade-and ran the downhills. Hot hot hot. Wet wet wet. I don't know if I've ever sweat so much.

2nd loop was 200 again. OK, good deal. I can do this. I was happy to be 1/2 through. Again a chorus of "ICE BERG" "GO JULIE" it was fabulous fun. I took a bow and made everyone laugh. Or was that the 3rd loop? Who knows.

3rd loop I was on my own. I didn't really see anyone but sure was happy to get into the aid stations! Doug Barton was at AS1 and I was so happy to tell him "next time I see you I'll be on my 4th loop"! He filled my bottle and gave me ice and I was off. I was really enjoying this.

During the 3rd loop Duke Rembleski came upon me! I love Duke! I hadn't seen him in forever and was thankful that this was a 4 loop course so that I could walk and talk with him. He was on his 4th loop. It was so great to visit.

At 4.4 miles Helen Lavin and Maria Barton and crew were manning the station. It was great to come in each time and chat with happy smiling people! After a cooling off of ice water and sponges I felt revitalized! Off to get loop 3 finished.

At about 1 mile to the start/finish I heard JULIE! Oh my goodness, Eve Rembleski! Yahhoo I love Eve too! She was running strong in back of me, I waited for her to catch up and pass so I could run after her a yell out a few words! Eve took 1st woman/7th overall. So great to see you!

The 3rd loop came to an end, another loud chorus of HERE COMES JULIE and I could only laugh! I had the worse chaffing ever. My shorts and top were so soaked and rubbing on me, completely rubbed me raw. Cheri brought me over a big canister of Vaseline that really helped. Nancy washed me off with ice water oh, so wonderful. Holly filled my hat with ice, I grabbed watermelon and proceeded to drop it upon Eves toes! Nancy did the bending down for me to pick it up.

3rd lap was 2:11 OK, let's get this party moving.

The 4th lap I was just so darn grateful that I was going to finish this beast! It was truly a beast. I had chafing from hell but that was the only complaint. My legs weren't tired (why??), no blisters-Foot Potion-and I was truly happy to be out on the course.

As the 4th lap came to an end I surprised myself by tearing up. Pretty soon I was sobbing. On one hand I tend to think I should be able to run as fast and as hard as pre hysterectomy and on the other, more sane hand, I am just so grateful to be running again. I was crying because I am so thankful to be able run again. This felt like my McNaughton 100 wins. Really.

I finished the race in 830, in good form. I was able to run my fastest as I ran over the finish line.

Thank you so much to all of the volunteers, Cheri and John, all of you out there. It was an incredible day and I'm just so thankful that I was able to experience it.

Now I must pack up my food and head up to the Lake. Happy 4th of July :)

The Daring Bakers: Baklava!

2011-06-30T15:17:00.000-05:00

Erica of Erica’s Edibles was our host for the Daring Baker’s June challenge. Erica challenged us to be truly DARING by making homemade phyllo dough and then to use that homemade dough to make Baklava.

Two challenges in one! Not only creating the lovely Baklava but also creating the phyllo dough from which to make the Baklava.

I, honestly, had not even made Baklava before so I was really looking forward to this one.

It was fabulous and not so difficult, either. My phyllo dough wanted to stick to my counter top so I began to roll it out on a pie guide thing. It's a soft plastic form which really works well for pie crusts and proved to work very well for rolling out phyllo, too.

Neither Troy nor Steve had ever tasted Baklava before. I explained it to them but all they heard was 'nut pie'. I guess it was a good enough description.

They both loved the Baklava. Steve liked the spices, Troy liked the honey. What a great combination.

I didn't have any walnuts on hand so used pistachio, almonds and pecans. I don't have a food processor-really-the horror-so used my super coffee bean grinder instead. Worked like a charm.

The most shocking thing to me while putting the Baklava together was the large amount of liquid (honey,water, sugar, spices) to pour onto the already baked Baklava. Sure enough, the Baklava soaked in all of the honey. The Baklava became sweeter with better texture on the 2nd day. After that, it was all gone :)

If you'd like to create your own Baklava here is a link.

Training Time

2011-06-22T14:41:00.000-05:00

Here it is, summer vacation, wide open calendar, healed up from hysterectomy and lots of time on my hands!

With Tyler out of the nest and Troy busy with baseball, strength and speed and lifting classes I have more spare time than ever. I don't do well with spare time. I do well with structured days, with each hour appointed to a task. Running boys here and there, coaching, etc.

Luckily I am training for the Monster Series, Graniteman Series and a BQ at TCM to occupy my time. Throw in lifting and I have filled some of my hours. Volunteer work, training clients, watching Troys baseball games, getting him to his training, the day is eventually full. I still have time to sit around with Steve and Troy to watch the Twins play .

So, this triathlon thing. My first tri is on July 9; a sprint. The Graniteman Clear Lake is a .50 swim, 15 mile bike and 5K run. I took it quite easy, treated myself as I would a client, created a spreadsheet with a beginning tri plan interspersed with Hal Higdons' BQ marathon plan for the running portion.

The second tri is Graniteman Big Lake, another sprint and number three is Lake Marian, an Olympic distance.

The swim was the first hurdle to cross. I don't (didn't) like cold water. I got over that. I now think of it as refreshing. I began with a 28 minute swim the first session and over three weeks am up to 54 minutes. No problem. Of course, this is at Gold's Gym in a perfectly calm pool with lanes to keep me swimming in a straight line. My first open swim will be at the cabin when we are at Lake Vermilion where I will freeze my butt. Oh well. It is a necessary evil.

Biking is fine. I did buy a pair of diaper shorts yesterday. My butt was getting sore at 25+ miles. I did complete my first brick this week. 15 mile bike, 5 mile run. I forgot my helmet at home .. I know, right? Bad Julie. I ended up with a flat back tire at mile 13 and couldn't bear to think I'd have to walk the bike home. I rode faster and pretended it wasn't flat. Probably another Bad Julie. Oh well.
Upon returning home I put the bike in the garage and yelled for Topaz. We ran around the neighborhood for 5 miles. It felt strange at first, but eventually my calves stopped cramping and I was able to run. Not easy. I'll have to do this a few more times!

Running is coming along. I'm focusing on speed now and that is really really bad right now. Oh man, I am slow. I have totally lost my speed. The endurance came back much quicker post hysterectomy than the speed. I ran a track workout yesterday. 8x800 and totally sucked it up.

Today was a better day. Lifted arms - oh how I missed lifting! That's another story. I lifted arms for 50 minutes and still had an hour before having to pick up Troy from strength and speed so hopped on the treadmill and ran 4 miles at 745 pace. That's fast for me. It felt good. I caught a glimpse of me. I'm coming back.

Oh yes, lifting. I just really love it. I love the way I can feel the contraction, the stretch; I love the changes I can see and feel daily. You know I'll prepare for another comp, it is just in there waiting for me to try it. I figure I'll get these three triathlons done, my running season and then continue building during the winter for maybe Gopher in April. We'll see. I now know the process, what to expect, I have the suits, the music, the routine and the determination to make it happen. I won't have ovaries getting in my way this round either.

In the meantime I've entered Afton 50K for July 2. I wasn't going to as I thought we'd be at the lake. Tyler is going up the 3rd so I may wait until then. That left the 2nd open. I almost entered the 25K because I was worried about being embarrassed with my finishing time. So I had to ask myself :are you really going to let embarrassment take over and run the 25K instead when the 25K really doesn't interest you at all? Um, well, no, I really want to run the 50K. BUT people that I normally run faster will be running faster than me and I 'll be running the pace that I did when I first began running 50K's 8 years ago! Do you really care what they will think? Well, yeah, kindof. Is it worth not running 50K when you really do want to run 50K? Um....no. ... and so I entered. I'm glad I did. I'm looking to beat 8 hours.

I have also rejoined the Daring Bakers. Yay!! I've missed their difficult and creative recipes. I've just completed this months project and will post it when notified. Fun!

So that's what is happening here. A bit of training and whatnot.

Team Ortho Minneapolis Marathon Photos

2011-06-08T07:23:00.000-05:00

Minneapolis Marathon

2011-06-06T13:01:00.001-05:00

This past Sunday I ran the Minneapolis Marathon as part of the Team Ortho Monster Series that I entered. Last year I ran a few of the Ortho races and really enjoyed them. I entered the series this past January as an alternative to the Ultra Gnarly Bandit Series incase I had a hysterectomy, which I did, and the series has been a lot of fun.

Minneapolis Marathon was race III out of V.

Summer arrived in the Midwest this past weekend. Most of us from the area haven’t had any heat training yet this summer as the past five weekends have been in the 50s with rain. Friday arrived with summer! 86 Friday, 85 Saturday and Sunday, it is 94 today!

What a way to acclimate, on race day.

I normally love to run in the heat but I have to admit, the heat helped to brutalize the Minneapolis Marathon for me!

I had a few goals for the marathon. One, I wanted to run the first half faster than the Get Lucky Half Marathon in March and two, I wanted to feel good at the half. That would show me any progress I’ve made on endurance these past weeks. If you read the race report for the half you will remember that I felt like death during that half marathon. I couldn’t breathe, I was dizzy, I was a mess. Of course it was only 7 weeks or so post op.

As all Team Ortho races, parking was a treat. $3 parking in a lot less than a block away to the start/finish, hand directed to my spot. So amazing!

This was the second year for the Minneapolis Marathon and I hadn’t run it before. There were 4800 registered for either the relay, half marathon or marathon.

I liked the 7 AM start, for me earlier is better. We were able to use the facilities at The Depot Hotel, using nice clean toilets, hot water..what a treat! I walked over to the start and lined up near the 10 minute mile pacers. It was already 65F and felt nice, no sleeves necessary. I was trying a new sunscreen for racing, Skinceuticals, which my friend Alicia recommended. I am beginning to show sun spots and certainly don’t need anymore sun damage. This sunscreen is a physical block that is also water/sweat proof. I had been wearing the brand under my make up but hadn’t had the opportunity to try out on a sunny hot day.

The start was at the Depot Hotel, running through the Warehouse District, down Plymouth Avenue, to the Stone Arch Bridge. I had never walked down in that area and it was so pretty. Cobblestone roads – which weren’t so great to run on – but didn’t last very long. We ran through beautiful neighborhoods that I hadn’t seen before. It was a 6 mile loop over and back across the river and then we headed back near our starting place before heading out on the out and back marathon run. It really was a pretty loop and most of it was nicely shaded.

There was a relay taking place within the race which was a new event to me. Every 6 miles or so there would be a big RELAY sign with cones directing the participants to their hand off area. It was fun to see new fresh runners with lots of speed burning up the course for a few miles.

The stretch along West River Road was mostly shaded with a few long sunny spots. Whew, those spots warmed me up quickly. I felt like it was 90F already and really it was about 75F at this time.

I have never stood under any of the sprinklers at the summer marathons, but yesterday, I soaked myself under each one. I was that hot! After a cool soaking I felt new life in my body as I continued to run along the course.

Along West River Road was the half marathon turnaround and once the half marathoners left the course, wow, did it thin out! All of a sudden the course was wide and clear with a few runners here and there. Less than 900 finished the marathon.

I was able to reach both of my goals: at the half marathon I felt good, just hot, and I was 12 minutes faster than I was at Lucky 7 half marathon. Good enough!

I continued on and really began to get hot on this exposed section. I was carrying a 24 oz water bottle that I was filling at the aid stations and gulping down a couple little glasses of power aid or whatever the available energy drink was. I was taking a Hammergel every 35 to 40 minutes, I didn’t take any S or ECAPS. I was wondering if I should have brought some along with all of the heat.

We made a u turn and then entered the Fort Snelling State Park. Wow, I didn’t even know this existed. We ran downhill on a shaded path deep in the woods for over a mile, then hit a sandy trail through the park that was still shaded. 6 nice wooded shaded miles through the park. I liked it, although it was quite hilly. This was an out and back so it did get a little crowded in areas. I noticed that many of the runners coming back were looking pretty tough. The heat was taking it’s toll. I finally reached the turn around and headed back out of the park. As we exited the park we took a sharp left and the trail went straight up a huge hill! I could only laugh at it. I began to walk up the hill, sweat falling into my eyes when I realized the sunblock was working very well. It didn’t sting my eyes and it wasn’t wearing off. Good deal. I also noticed that it felt good to walk up this hill, using other muscles after the downhill running earlier.

I was just looking forward to hitting the 20 mile marker. I was hot and tired. I wasn’t sore at all, I wasn’t out of breath or dizzy, I was trying to be happy that I felt pretty good and that I have the endurance back. Speed is another thing.

Eventually mile 20 came and went, I just looked for the next mile. At mile 23 I filled up my water bottle and then noticed the 430 pace group coming up the way. I walked out of the aid station, waiting to run the last three miles with the group.

I came into the finish line at 4:34, I felt nauseous by now and had a bad stitch in my side. I thought about my friends running FANS and Kettle 100 and was just glad that I only had a marathon for today!

I had only a short walk to my car where I had a cooler holding a recovery shake and quinoa salad. I could stomach the shake but ate the salad later in the day when I was famished!

No pain or stiffness today, no bleeding or cramping during the race, all is good. The next race in the Monster Series is the Minneapolis Duathlon. Something new for me! I’m looking forward to it.

The Twin Cities Marathon is in 4 months. I’d like to run another Boston Qualifier. I have the endurance down, now the speed workouts begin.

Today is swimming and biking in preparation for the Graniteman Tri in 8 weeks. Another first!

Triatha what? Triathlon!

2011-06-01T09:25:00.000-05:00

The town in which I live, Big Lake, is hosting a triathlon! Finally! It is a great location as the City has built a pathway around the lake that is perfect for running and biking. Except that it is concrete but who needs to complain, right?

In looking up information for this triathlon I learned that it is a part of a series, the Graniteman Series. This will consist of the Graniteman Clearwater Triathlon and Graniteman Half Marathon, Sauk Rapids, in addition to Graniteman Big Lake. Of course I decided to enter the series, what the hell, right?

You may recall that in 2006 I was going to try the sport of triathlon, before I chose to focus on 100 mile ultramarathons. I learned that I didn’t care for the swim portion of the sport. I trained for a while during the winter and then once the trails cleared it was back to ultrarunning!

Graniteman Clearwater is held July 9, Graniteman Big Lake is August 9. Both of these are ‘sprint’ triathlons-the shortest of tri’s, including a .46 mile swim across the lake, a 15 mile bike and finishing off with a 5K run. Woohoo! No prob, right?

After entering these I became excited about trying something new and entered Lake Marian Triathlon, which offered a sprint and Olympic distance. Well, I figured I might as well go for the Olympic as I’d have two sprints under my belt. Weeee!

The Olympic distance is a bit longer including a 1.5 K swim (.93 mile), 40K bike (24.8 mile) and a 10K run (6.2 miles). The swim will intimidate me here but I’ll get her done.

If I love this I’ll progress forward to a ½ Iron and Ironman; why not, right? I am going to volunteer at Ironman Wisconsin in September so that I can secure an entry in 2012. I’m at bike aid station 2. My friend Brook is an entrant so it will be awesome to see her upon the course.

I’m thankful that I entered the Team Ortho Monster Series early this year as a back up plan to the Ultra Gnarly Bandit Series incase of hysterectomy. My surgeon has firmly suggested that I do not run Bighorn 100 Mile Trail Run. The distance between aid stations and the remoteness of the race location were important reasons for his suggestion in addition of course to the rigor of a 100 mile mountain race.

I could just ignore his suggestion but I know that for me to finish a 100 my mind has to be firmly sound in finishing the distance. One bit of indecision at finishing the distance and my mind will convince my body to stop. As much as I love the distance and state how much I enjoy it, at about mile 70-80 I do entertain thoughts of quitting. A strong mind not allowing any of these thoughts to take place it was gets me to the finish line.

The Minneapolis Marathon is part III of the Monster Series. The Marathon is this Sunday and it looks to be a perfect day! High of 83 with a low of 60, oh yeah, summer is arriving. I have no time goal for the marathon, just a morning run in the sun. It will be a good indication as to where my fitness is right now. I’m going to train to run another Boston qualifier at Twin Cities Marathon this October. I’ve created a 4 month training plan which includes the triathlon training and TCM.

So far I’ve swum up to 24 laps and biked up to 35 miles. Plenty of fun ☺

Summer vacation is approaching just in time, I’ll have many many hours to put in toward training. Oh yeah, summer is here… love it!

Farmers Market!

2011-05-24T14:52:00.000-05:00

The farmers markets are just bursting with spring numminess this time of the year. A few weeks ago two local markets opened up for the season but they are only open one day a week and there is no comparison to the Minneapolis Farmers Market on Lyndale.

I visited the Minneapolis Farmers Market last week and oh, man, spring o’ plenty veggies! I came home with leeks, ramps, numerous different lettuces, asparagus, spinach, parsnips, onions, rhubarb, herbs, ramps, and bean sprouts. Many vendors had flowers, meats and cheeses too.

I could not wait to get home to prepare a few things! One recipe I have wanted to try is from Amy Lyons; her Spring Allium Chevre Filo Rolls. I didn’t want to use the chevre or parmesan cheeses so skipped it, making it vegan, but used everything else.

THEY WERE SUPURB!

Here is the recipe as Amy directs. They are super good without the dairy as I made them:

Spring Allium Chevre Filo Rolls
Makes 10

Filling:
1 cup leeks, thinly sliced
1cup ramps, leaves and bottom part, thinly sliced
1cup shallots, thinly sliced
4 garlic cloves, chopped
1/2 tsp sea salt
1/4 tsp freshly ground pepper
1 Tbsp lemon zest
16 oz chevre (soft goat cheese)
2 oz shredded pecorino romano cheese
about 3/4 cup olive oil (for brushing
10 sheets filo dough
sea salt

In a large skillet, heat 1 Tbsp olive oil, and add leeks, ramps, and shallots. Saute until tender, about 5 minutes, then add garlic and saute about a minute more until fragrant. Let cool slightly, then add to a bowl with sea salt, pepper, lemon zest, chevre and pecorino romano. Mix until well combined. Preheat oven to 400 degrees, and line a baking sheet with foil. Lay out sheets of filo dough, and cover with plastic wrap (so it doesn't dry out, since you will be using a sheet at a time. Place olive oil in a bowl. Lay out one sheet of filo, and brush it with olive oil. fold in half like a book. Brush with olive oil and place 2 Tbsp filling about 1 inch from the bottom, in the shape of a log about 3 inches wide. Fold in each side over the filling, and brush the top with olive oil. Roll up egg roll style, and brush with olive oil. Place on baking sheet. Repeat with remaining 9 rolls. Sprinkle with sea salt, and bake for 15-20 minutes, until golden and heated through. Keep a close eye because they brown quickly! Let cool slightly before serving.

I increased the leeks, ramps, shallots by 1 cup (using 2) and added 2 whole onions. I didn’t use the chevre or romano and was so thrilled with the result.

Troy even ate one! I will definitely make these again.

Almost every day I eat some sort of salad, maybe even two. Lately I’ve been roasting veggies to add to the mix. I really like the flavor. I’ve found that tossing a bit of maple syrup in a pile of pecans and roasting adds an awesome crunch to the salad. I usually add a bean or pea for protein. Here is one from yesterday:

Roasted beets
Roasted carrots
Roasted onion
Pecans
Greens
Garbanzo beans
Olive oil/Dijon mustard blended for dressing

Amazing!

If you don’t have a garden of your own (or it isn’t growing yet, like mine) you really ought to visit your farmers market. You just can’t get better produce!

Inspired

2011-05-19T11:52:00.000-05:00

For the past seven weeks I have been coaching the Beginning Women’s Running Program for the Minnesota Distance Running Association. We have a group of 31 women participate each week. I’ve been coaching with MDRA for 4 years now and I just love it!

Last night we had Margot Albensoeder-Madsen scheduled to speak to our group before our 40 minute run. I hadn’t met Margot before; I only knew that her presentation was entitled “Running Through the Years.” At the end of her presentation I felt like I had known Margot for many years and she had a place in my heart.

Margot was born in Germany and came to America in 1962 with her husband, Gunther. They had 4 children after they arrived to America and lived in Wayzata. Gunther passed away from a sudden heart attack in 1982, leaving his wife and 4 children behind.

When Margot spoke to us about her husband Gunther she began to cry softly. It was heart wrenching. After all of these years those feelings for him came right to the surface. She apologized and took a few seconds to herself, then stated “Gunther told me that he is here and to get it together”. I wasn’t the only one in the room crying along with her.

She went on to say that her co-workers put their money together to offer her a gift of money to show their sympathy as well as a membership to The Marsh. The Marsh is a Wellness Center in Minnetonka, still owned by Ruth Strickler as it was when Margot became a member.

Margot recalled to us how she first began to run. She was walking on the treadmill at The Marsh when Diane, a trainer who is still at The Marsh, came up to her and told her that she had a ‘runners physique’ and that she should try to run. Margot was intimidated and immediately said that she didn’t know how to run. Diane took her outside and they ran one block, then two, then three and over time she was running a mile. She loved it.

Margot began to run at 50 years of age. She then began to race, winning her age group at most races. She won the MDRA Grand Prix. She qualified for the Boston Marathon while running her first marathon at Twin Cities Marathon in 1990 with a time of 3:58, at age 52! Rockin’ hu?

Margot is now 73 years of age. 73! She continues to run, having finished 8 marathons, numerous half marathons and even triathlons. She now lives in Fairmont with her second husband of 17 years. She helps out with the Fairmont Triathlon and Fairmont 5 Mile Race. I am planning on entering one or both of these, just to meet with Margot again!

At the conclusion of Margot’s presentation I felt like she was a best friend of mine. I don’t know that I have ever been so moved by another woman before at a first meeting. I could feel the warmth and compassion come from her and felt her love for running. I tell you, she really inspired me.

We were fortunate to have Margot stay with us to take part in our running after her presentation. I led the group for a 40 minute run, then finished up with stretching.

Margot had a few more stories to tell us before we called it a night. I was just thrilled to hear her stories, I stood next to her, just beaming. I suggested to her that she write her stories down. Her stories were not only about running and racing but also about her life in Germany and her move to America.

I feel very fortunate that I was able to meet Margot Albensoeder-Madsen .

Ice Age 50 Mile Ultramarathon

2011-05-16T19:56:00.000-05:00

I just spent an awesome weekend in Hustisford Wisconsin for the Ice Age Trail Races. I have run the Ice Age 50 Miler 4 different times, the last time in 2007, and decided it was time to run upon the trail again. This year the race offered a half marathon, 50K and 50 Mile option. I was in for the 50.

We were a group of four traveling to Hustisford Wisconsin. Bill offered to drive us, we had a ‘cabin’ for the weekend on Lake Sinissippi for free. Our weekend cost was going to be minimal. We were able to fit all of our gear into the back of Bill’s Toyota Prius, I had my cooler between Alicia and I.

Our drive down was fun, joking and telling stories on the way. While Matt and Bill navigated the way to our destination Alicia and I just sat back and enjoyed the ride. We almost stopped to visit an establishment called Cruisin’ Chubbies. We decided against it.

As we approached the cabin we all had our mouths wide open as we took in the view. Our ‘cabin’ was a beautiful home set upon the lake. A sweeping deck around the outside, fireplace, Jacuzzi, drive through garages, it was crazy beautiful. We felt like royalty entering the front door. Wow.

We visited and made preparations for the morning. I retired to my huge bedroom and big bed. Read for an hour and called it a day.

At 340 we woke up to ready ourselves for the day. Matt brought Peet’s coffee along as well as traveler cups so we were super spoiled. A quick breakfast of oats for me and we were off to Ice Age.

We arrived the start by 515, a good 45 minutes before the race start. Plenty of time for collecting number, chip, visiting and photos. About this time I noticed that my GPS wasn’t working. I had charged it on Friday but must have left it on. I like to use it, at minimum, to direct me as to when to take gels. Ugh. Matt had mentioned earlier that he wasn’t going to wear his watch so let me wear his instead. It wasn’t a GPS but did have a running time, I was thankful!

Before the race our RD told us that Tom Bunk was running his 26th in a row and that as a finisher Lorraine would be solo in her age group of 70+. They both finished! I ran with them for a few miles during the race and am just in awe of the two of them.

It rained and the wind was blowing like crazy all night long but amazingly the course was in pretty good shape on Saturday. I have seen it much, much worse. I enjoyed myself so much, running along the trail, saying hello and catching up to others that I haven’t seen in some time.

I drank Hammer Heed from the stations and was able to pick up Hammer gels. I just love that so many races are now sponsored by Hammer Nutrition. I haven’t had to haul along powder in baggies to mix my drink along the trail in quite some time. I always carry Hammergel along just in case, but took them back home with me. I was able to refill on gel at every aid station. I even tried a new flavor: Colorado Mulberry or Huckleberry. It was quite good but not as good as my favorite Espresso.

I was feeling good, running along the course at mile 13 when I felt a cramping of some sort. I had never felt it before so thought maybe it was due to nerves, breakfast, or who knows what. I continued to run along and these cramps were starting to come every 5 minutes or so. I stopped to stretch out my core, massaged my lower abs. I noticed that when I walked I didn’t have cramps. By mile 15 I was starting to have some spotting. I hadn’t spotted at all during my hysterectomy recovery, this was very alarming to me. I told myself I’d just run to the next aid station and drop if I was still spotting.

I walked for a while, the cramping and spotting stopped so I began to run along, feeling pretty good. At 20 miles I told Vicky and Wayne what was going on. They reassured me by letting me know they would be at the aid stations for the duration of the day. This really helped me mentally, knowing they would be there. They were crewing for Rick, who was ahead of me, as was Alicia and Matt. I figured I might as well go to the next aid station, 23.

By mile 23 the spotting was heavier and the cramping felt like contractions. What the hell? I wasn’t going to chance this and end up with a big problem. There wasn’t crew access at 23 so I decided at 26 I’d call it a day. A marathon is a good distance to call it a day I told myself. But 50K is better.

Well, eventually the spotting had turned to bleeding and contraction like cramps were causing a lot of pain. I told Vicky and Wayne I was finished because of this. It was the pits. I felt fine otherwise. They let me know that Bill had dropped a while back and was in the car. I collected my drop bag and did the same.

I didn’t feel to bummed about dropping, I was more concerned. Once I was off of my feet and sitting the cramping began to go away. The bleeding was back to spotting. Thank goodness.

We drove to the start/finish, they dropped off Bill and I. We changed into dry warm clothing and headed off to find Alicia and Matt along the course. I really enjoyed watching the runners come through the aid station. I don’t often see this side of the race. We set up at outbound mile 37/inbound mile 43. I watched many of the people that I had been running with come in and run out. Matt was coming back and looked good even though he said he was tired and felt crabby. He looked strong and fast to me. Drank a few mouthfuls of coffee and we told him we’d see him at the finish.

The clock was close to the cut off time. Rick came in only a few minutes after the cut off and Alicia a bit after that. She had been suffering a sick stomach for many miles and continued to stick it out on the trail. Amazing.

We drove back to the finish for Alicia to change and for all of us to eat. We mingled and watched the finishers come in. It was so much fun to cheer and whoop it up for them. Matt came in just after 10 hours, our single finisher in our traveling group. Way to go, Matt!

I was freezing. Even with three shirts, a sweatshirt, two jackets I was still cold. It was raining and blowing. Alicia and I went to wait in the car and just hung out, drinking the Peet’s coffee that Matt brought along 12 hours ago. It was still warm. Yum!

Eventually we headed off to our house of beauty for rest and relaxation. What a nice place. We totally enjoyed ourselves before turning in for the night.

I’m feeling just fine today. No cramping or spotting. I called my surgeon and he told me that this normally takes place when one does too much too soon. He stated that he doesn’t have any other ultra runners as patients, that normally too much is an aggressive walk at 6 weeks. He thought I would have felt these after effects of hysterectomy earlier, during my 1/2 marathon or 50K. He commended me for actually listening to my body and stopping when I did. I’m sure thankful that I did!

He advised me against running Bighorn but stated the Minneapolis Marathon June 5 should be fine.

It's a Wrap

2011-05-02T06:58:00.000-05:00

I ran the last of my long runs yesterday, as preparation for the Ice Age 50 Mile Ultra. Ice Age is in two weeks. I'll probably run 10/10 Saturday and Sunday of this week and 5's on the weekdays.

Saturday was a total rain event. We received 1.5 inches of rain. I ran only 8 miles in the deluge and then headed over to TC Running Company looking for trail shoes.

I've worn Inov-8 for as long as I've been running ultras. After my first finish at McNaughton 100 I was offered a sponsorship from Inov-8 and have been the thankful recipient of 36 pair of shoes since then. I had never been fitted for a running shoe, I don't have any glaring problems that would need a corrective shoe so have done very well running in the Inov-8. Lately, however, it seems that I want more cushion, more substance on the bottom of my foot while running trail. I figured it was time to check out the market.

Kurt at TC Running Company brought out a dozen different pair of trail running shoes. I tried Adidas, Brooks, Asics, Montrail, Solomon and more. After running in all of the models I chose the third shoe I tried on: Brooks Cascadia. As soon as I slid my foot into the shoe I said "ahhh, nice and cushy" it had a great feeling. I ran in the shoe and loved the way it allowed my foot to toe off effortlessly. It almost felt as though the toe was curved upward.

Yesterday the rain had stopped but snow was in its place. Ugh. 28F, 45 mph winds and snowflakes with a 25 mile run on tap. It seems crazy, but the brand new shoes took the edge off of running in those elements! I was just amazed at how good they felt. My feet didn't have that running on flatness feeling, my legs didn't feel dead and my ankles felt great. I don't know if new shoes really make that much of a difference but in my mind they did.

Topaz rooted out grouse, turkey and deer from their hiding places. He was having as much fun as I. I brought along gels and heed, stopping at the car at 15 miles to refuel and refill. I never removed my winter running gloves or fleece ear band! Yeah, it was that cold, here. Instead of Happy May Day it was May Day! May Day! Topaz only soaked in the lake 2x, he was comfortable during our run.

After the run Troy and I headed off to the Science Museum to see the Omni film exhibit for King Tut. It was amazing. I enjoy the Science Museum so much, the exhibits never fail to amaze me. There were more than 100 authentic artifacts illuminating the lives of great rulers buried in the Valley of the Kings, including the most famous of them all—King Tut. We learned about Tut's ancestors who defined the 18th Dynasty and the pharaohs' function in Egyptian society and religion.

This training session has allowed no time for speed training, it's been all about endurance. This week I'll run a speed session at the track - first time in two years and try a hill workout at the ski hill. I'm anxious to add the two workouts into my weekly training regularly after Ice Age.

Chippewa 50K Ultramarathon

2011-04-25T11:48:00.003-05:00

I did it! I was able to finish the Chippewa 50K in fine form. Yes, I had some doubt three weeks ago but as race day approached I told myself there wasn't any reason I couldn't run a 50K 10 weeks post hysterectomy. Right? Right!

I've only been training for a month and that month has been spent building endurance, not speed, that is for sure. I have no speed in these legs unless I train hard, diligently and run speed sessions twice a week with a weekly minimal mileage total of 75 miles. That's how this body works. Running fast(er) doesn't come easy for me.

With a few weeks to train I really wasn't certain how the endurance was going to pan out either. I did run 2 20 milers, so was hoping the next 11 during the race would be OK. It was.

I arrived to the race start with 4 minutes to spare. Yeah, thanks mapquest. Even though I have volunteered before I certainly didn't remember where in the world New Auburn WI was, somewhere out in the middle of the Chippewa National Forest. I was tossed and turned around, finally realizing hey, I have an iPhone and that has a GPS. So DUH! I have had an iPhone for 3 years and never used the GPS. I pulled it out, entered in the address and bingo! Even though there was no cell/internet service the GPS still works. It had me to the race start before the race started.

Quickly stuffed gels into my pocked, grabbed my Garmin, fixed my feet and hightailed it up to the visitor center where Jeff was calling all of the runners to the start. He helped me to find my chip and number and we were off!

The course was beautiful! Nice rolling ups and downs, deep woods, so many lakes, it was incredible. The trail was soft, nice and well..muddy. We ran through pine, oak, along ridges, through fields, a few road crossings-even some obstacles such as fence climbing and bridge crossings were involved. It was fantastic and SO GOOD TO BE RUNNING AN ULTRA AGAIN!

I saw my long lost friends! I didn't have any time to visit at the start so was able to catch up on the trail. Maria and I started out together for 5 minutes we chatted but at the first hill I had to let her go. I had to let a whole bunch of friends that I normally run with go. I was breathing heavily up that hill and knew it would mean trouble if I was gasping for air this early. I told her to go ahead and I'd visit at the finish.

I walked the hill and then found John T, ran a few hundred feet and had to stop to pee. I didn't have a chance to pee after the long ride with only 4 minutes to start. Off went the group. Scott W was out running! So happy to see him, it's been years since we've run together. It was a nice HI and BYE! He was long gone before I stepped back onto the trail.

For a few moments I was bummed that I was at the back of the pack, where I used to be when I first began ultras. I quickly changed my mindset and became grateful that I was even out running. Here I was, healthy, able to run a 50K deep in the woods. It's a great way to spend the day!

I ran along, enjoying Mother Nature. The course is an out and back, with 2 manned aid stations along the way, two self serve with water and an aid station at the turn around.

At each aid station I filled with Heed, grabbed a few gels and scampered on down the trail. I was totally enjoying the views. This course is on the Ice Age Trail, it is just beautiful

Eventually the leaders were coming back, I was going to be able to see all of the runners. John S was in third place, running strong. Helen was third woman, also looking strong. I love out and backs, so nice to see everyone!

Pretty soon I saw the group I had been racing with before my hiatus: John T, Jim, they were like 5 miles ahead of me. Wow. For a moment I thought: I suck. Then I changed that thought. No, I'm just fine. I'm having a blast, I'm getting my money worth!

At the turn around I felt famished! I was running slowly and knew I wouldn't have any trouble digesting food. I ate 3/4 of a fresh peanut butter jelly sandwich and refilled on heed and gels. The sandwich tasted wonderful!

Lynn was taking pictures, I'll post a few, and off I went, back toward the start.

Along my way back I still felt good. I had been running a very cautious pace for fear of crashing. I was probably too cautious but better to error on the side of good judgment!

I ended up passing 13 people on the way back, yeah, I counted. It made me feel good about my run. I ran a negative split of 1:24! Ha, that's one minute and 24 seconds! Pretty consistent pace!

At the end of the race is a huge grassy hill leading to the visitor center. John S and Joe were up there cheering and yelling. They finished in 424 or some crazy fast speed and this was Joe's first ultra. Yeah. Wow! Great run.

I walked up that last hill and crossed the finish line in 7:10. A good 45 minutes or so slower than my 50K time but hey, I did it and I'm good with it! My goal was 8 hours so I was golden.

A quick visit with others and I hurried to my car to change into dry clothes and gobble up a shake of berries, juice, Udos and protein powder. I had leftover lentil patties and greens for the drive home.

I'm trying to be diligent with recovery foods. Too many times I don't eat post run because I don't feel hungry. A shake is easy to get down the hatch and digests easily.

I visited with wonderful friends whom I have missed so much, for an hour or so and then it was time to move on home to color Easter eggs and bake the Bun Bun Cake.

Thanks to RD Jeff, the volunteers and all of my friends out there. You all rock. A few more weeks and I'm off to WI again, this time for Ice Age 50 Mile Ultra. Woohoo!

A Few Vegan Recipies: Lentil Patties and Vegan Curry

2011-04-21T11:34:00.000-05:00

Yesterday Troy had a baseball game away, I wasn’t able to attend so I had a few extra hours at home. Normally I am at the game, running quickly before hand, or Troy has a practice that is finished at 430, leaving no time for the drive to and back from the trail.

As I was running the State Park trails I was thinking about what I might feel like eating for dinner. With some extra time I wanted to create a few new meals. I recalled a few recipes that I hadn’t yet tried. A curry with coconut milk – I have never used canned coconut milk, either, and a lentil patty. I’m calling it a patty because I don’t think it should be confused with a burger. It tastes nothing like a standard beef burger and isn’t supposed to replace a burger.

The trails were all clear of snow, only a few areas where streams have overtaken the trail (today they are covered with snow!). Topaz and I ran 10 miles, enjoying every step.

On the way home I looked up my file (thank you iPhone!) with recipes and noted that I needed to stop for canned coconut milk to create the curry. Both recipes are from the No Meat Athlete website. A website I visit often.

Both items were very easy to make up and both were very tasty! The curry is especially good with the creaminess of the coconut milk. I ate that for dinner last night and have my lentil patty atop greens for my lunch today. Yum!

Here are the recipes if you are interested:

• 1 c dry lentils, well rinsed
• 2½ c water
• ½ t salt
• 1 T olive oil
• ½ medium onion, diced
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• ½ t pepper
• 1 t soy sauce, optional
• ¾ c rolled oats, finely ground
• ¾ c bread crumbs
Directions:
1. Place the lentils, water, and salt in saucepan, bring to a boil, lower heat, cover, and simmer for about 45 minutes, until water is nearly gone and lentils are very soft, with splitting skins.
2. Sauté the onion and carrot in oil until soft, about 5 minutes.
3. Mix the lentils, onions, carrots, pepper, and optional soy sauce in the large bowl, then mix in the ground oats and bread crumbs.
4. While still warm, form the lentil mixture into patties, which can now be frozen, refrigerated (for up to 5 days), or cooked immediately.
Cooking (2 possibilities):
1. In a frying pan, heat a bit of oil, place a burger on top, and fry until brown, 1-2 minutes. Repeat on other side and serve.
2. In a 400º oven, bake the burgers on a greased baking sheet until light brown, about 15 minutes.

Curry:
• Cooked brown rice, however you like it (we used 2 boil-in-bags this time)
• 2 Tbsp canola oil
• 1 small yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• thumb-sized piece of fresh ginger, peeled and minced
• 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced
• 1 Tbsp curry powder
• 1 large sweet potato, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 15-oz can chickpeas
• 15-oz can coconut milk, solid and liquid parts mixed (just shake the can)
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 1/2 cup canned diced tomatoes
• 1 cup water
In a heavy saucepan (Dutch oven if you have it!), heat the oil over medium-low heat. After the pan has heated up for a few minutes, add the onion, garlic, ginger, and jalapeno. Cook for about 5 minutes until everything is softened. Add the curry powder and stir for 30 seconds. Add salt and pepper (I added a lot of salt, almost a tablespoon).
Add the sweet potato, chickpeas, coconut milk, and water to the pan. Increase the heat and bring to a boil. As soon as it starts boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the sweet potato is tender. It took about 15 minutes for me. Add the peas and tomatoes; stir occasionally until they're heated through, about 4 more minutes. Serve over brown rice.

The canned coconut is amazing! Creamy and nice, sweet. A good fat, too.

I portioned out the servings for the rest of the week. Lunches are ready!

Chippewa 50K this Saturday. Long and slow, I am not going to look at my watch and if I am last I am OK with that. I am thinking of this as a paid training run for Bighorn.

I am so looking forward to Easter. I love holidays and love Easter! It is supposed to 65F, sunny and lots of fun. The Easter baskets are ready, we'll dye the eggs, egg hunt, croquet, I'll be baking the bun bun cake. Spending time with my boys. Can't wait!

Zumbro 100 Mile Endurance Run

2011-04-11T16:05:00.000-05:00

This past Friday was the Zumbro 100 Mile Endurance Run. Originally I was hoping to run this in part with the Upper Midwest Trail Runners Ultra Gnarly Bandit series. Once I was scheduled for surgery I decided I’d volunteer instead.

I had never volunteered during a 100 before so have never worked the night shift. I was sure looking forward to it!

John Storkamp, the new RD for the race, did an excellent job keeping the volunteers updated as to our assignments, our shift times, who we would be working with, etc.

My shift was 6 PM to 6 AM at the Start/Finish. I was happy to be assigned here as I could park my car here and use it as a tent. I would have all of my clothes near me, I could run 25 miles and then change before my shift.

Amazingly the course was in great condition. Just last week there was inches of snow upon the trail. With some rain during the week and temperatures up in the 50s I thought the course would be very muddy. It wasn’t! The snow was gone and the sand had soaked up all of the water. Beautiful!

Completing a long training run during a race is an awesome way to get the miles in! The course was perfectly marked and I was able to pick up Hammergel and Hammer Heed along the way. Visiting with my friends working the other aid stations was quite a treat too. I was surprised that I only ran into Daryl during my loop-he finished in fine form.

The run went very well for me. I was able to climb without gasping for air, I was able to run a few fast miles without my heart rate sky rocketing. I am encouraged for Chippewa 50K in a week and a half.

The course was beautiful. There are long climbs, runnable flats, awesome views of the river from the high bluffs. I saw deer and grouse, wild leeks and purple flowers.

I couldn’t but become excited about running the race next year.

Volunteering the station was so much fun. There were 50 volunteers to 25 runners so we had plenty of help. I filled bottles, packs, made grilled cheese sandwiches, handed out salt tablets, fetched Vaseline, scooped stew and offered encouragement to the runners.

It was interesting to watch the runners come in. The course is a 20. 5 mile loop, completed 5 times so I saw most of the runners twice during my 6 PM to 6 AM shift. Some of the runners were very self sufficient. Many of them had their vehicles parked nearby and just went there to change, mix up fuel, eat. They would run past for me to check in their number and time. Other runners like to know what is available to eat and drink. Then dictate back what they want. Some runners don’t have any idea what they want. I would then suggest at least a gel, how about a ½ sandwich to take along? It was a lot of fun.

Eventually the volunteers began to thin out for a quick nap. John told us to catch an hour or two. I went to my car and reclined the front seat back, cuddling up in a warm down nest. I tried to fall asleep but wasn’t able to . 30 minutes later I wandered back to the station and there was John all by himself. He was exhausted, having been up for days getting this party ready. He nodded off while we were sitting at the fire, then popped back up and began to set up the finish line. He wouldn’t rest for long.

We continued to feed the runners, I would check them in and wrote down their times as they came through. The night was relatively mild. The runners kept their day clothes on. The low was 48F. Not bad!

At one point John looked at me and said "This is really fucked up. These people are out there running 100 miles and we are acting like it's a normal thing for everyone to do. We do it" I responded "Yeah, and Lynn's bone is showing through her knee from her fall and we think it is a great thing that she went out to finish up the race anyway".

The things that you do and that you are around eventually become normal, not fucked up. Amazing.

At the end of the day there were 25 entered and 16 finishers. The course record that John Storkamp set last year was crushed by Adam Schwartz in 21:53.

Here are the results:

1 Adam Schwartz-Lowe 21:53:05
2 Matthew Aro 23:03:32
3 Shane Peltonen 23:27:40
4 Susan Donnelly 26:13:36
5 Ruben Anderson 28:59:01
6 Jordan Hanlon 29:34:36
7 Rob Apple 29:53:21
8 Daryl Saari 30:07:35
9 Kathleen Jambor 30:14:43
10 Bob Murphy 30:15:28
11 Vince Gerber 30:17:14
12 John Taylor 30:21:53
13 Lynn Saari 31:43:37
14 Erik Dalgaard 32:06:22
15 Matthew Schafer 32:32:09
16 Brian Van Beusekom 33:25:45

It was a fabulous day and I was honored to be a part of the race. Thank you to all of the runners, the volunteers, crew, the RDs. I have a few photos I’ll post later.

2011 Zumbro Fat Ass Run

2011-04-03T10:27:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I headed south to Zumbro Falls to run the again annual Zumbro Fat Ass. I arrived earlier than the 10:00 start time so ran around the Bottoms for a while before others arrived and while others were chopping and stacking wood for the aid stations during the Zumbro 100 next Friday.

I became warm while running early in the morning in pants so changed into shorts prior to our trail run. Ah, the first run of the season in shorts. Nice!

Daryl and Lynn arrived with their playful pup, Lexi. She smiles and wags her tail constantly, such a pretty girl. Joe had his Rottweiler/Pit mix who was also very friendly and as Chris arrived a huge lean dog bounded out from his car. Oh my gosh, this was Cooper. The Cooper that Chris has been skijoring with recently. Wow. What a dog. I didn't realize how large he was. He looked like he was part deer! Awesome.

We chatted a bit and headed out on the trail. It was a beautiful morning, 35F, sun, with a high of 50. Couldn't get any better!

The trail was covered with a lot of snow, some mud and water in the low areas. The shaded areas still held quite a bit of snow.

My climbing legs have been in hibernation, I could feel them resist climbing up the snow covered hills. I was out of breath a few times, but I didn't panic as I did a few weeks earlier. I just took it easy, bringing up the back of the pack. I was OK with that.

I chatted with Cheri and Wayne quite a bit. Cheri is running Bighorn 50K and Wayne is heading out to McNaughton next week. It was fun to catch up, I've been away for so long.

Running through the leaf covered trail was a treat. There were areas where the sun had melted off all of the snow exposing a nice soft cover. It felt good to run on a bit of dirt!

The aid station that I am assigned to next week, AS 2, is covered in an ice berg. AS2 and AS3 will now be combined at the AS3 location.

I had an awesome time, it felt so good to be out running at Zumbro Bottoms among friends again.

I don't know how much snow will be left for the race next week. It rained last night and the forecast is for 50s this week. Much of it will probably melt but I imagine some of it will be left.

I'm planning on running a loop of the course before my 6 PM shift on Friday. Good luck to all of the runners! See you out there!!

Building Endurance

2011-03-27T17:23:00.000-05:00

After last weeks Half Marathon struggle I was apprehensive about my 20 miler today. A group of friends had invited me to run 20 with them but hell, I didn't know if I could. I haven't felt that way in years.

Topaz and I went to the trails at the park yesterday and they were in dismal shape. Lots of snow and ice, it took forever for 8 miles of running on snowshoes. I didn't want to run 20 there. Sadly that meant I was taking it to the roads and Topaz would have to stay at home. The asphalt is without snow now and it is just too hard on his joints.

It probably seems ridiculous to some, but I really hated leaving him behind. I told him first thing this morning "No run for Topaz" so he wouldn't get excited as I dressed. He was dejected with sad ears and tail.

Troy had a few friends spend the night, they were still sleeping of course. I didn't want to wake them by opening up the big garage door. I was going to try to leave without Topaz seeing me run down the driveway. Well, the lock on the side garage door was froze shut. I came back in and had to go out the front door, Topaz whining and probably waking up everyone anyway.

I have run almost every trail mile in the past 9 years with Topaz. I purchased him a week after I ran trail for the first time. For him the trails came easily and naturally. For me, a struggle, but one that I have come to enjoy and honor.

As I ran out of my neighborhood and turned onto the County Road I felt exhilaration. It's been so long! I felt myself enjoying the act of running: taking in the clear air deeply, feeling the frost upon my face (8F this morning), feeling the blood pump through my legs, warming up. God how I've missed it. I felt myself come back from wherever I have been. I felt my soul open up and take it all in.

I took my first sip of Hammer Heed out of my bottle. I haven't tasted that since Tuscobia 50K. I sang to myself "It's been a long time since I drank Hammer Heed, It's been a long time since I've felt any speed. Let me get it back let me get it back let me get it back..." on and on I went to the old Led Zeppelin tune. Hilarium.

I ran down the County Road into Big Lake, stopping at Cobornes to refill my bottle and use the bathroom. A heated aid station! Off to run around the lake two times, another stop at Cobornes and back up the County Road heading for home.

I had forgotten how much I enjoyed running this route. It's been a long time.

No dizziness, no cramping, gasping and wheezing, no panic. I don't know what happened last week but I am so thankful that it isn't going to be the norm. Today was sweet.

I ran into the road leading to our home and there was Topaz sitting at the end of the driveway by the mailbox. He bolted toward me and almost knocked me down. Oh man. Steve told me he sat there for 3.5 hours.

After I changed into dry clothing I was going to drive out to the state park to take Topaz to get his run on. I asked Steve if he wanted to come along and amazingly he said yes, for the first time. I showed him the snowshoe trail I've been running each day. We hiked the 4 miles as Topaz herded us along. The sun warmed the trail even melting the snow a bit.

I feel fabulous. Next week I'll run 25. I'm hoping for trail but if the snow is still thick it will be another road run.

It feels good to be the person I've missed.

Snowmaggedon

2011-03-23T09:48:00.000-05:00

This morning began as a normal workday morning. Up at 430, treadmill 'wakeup' run of a few miles, shower, dress, coffee and FOX 9 News.

I almost spit out my coffee when I read at the bottom of the screen: BIG LAKE CLOSED. WOW! I leaped from my chair, bolted into the kitchen to pull open the patio door and look onto the dark deck. Man, a good 5" already and it was snowing hard. Awesome!

A day off! I know, I have only been back to work for 7 days, and I love it, but hey, a snow day is an awesome day no matter what!

Topaz was very confused. "Hey Topie, we're gonna go for a run" hu? He looked at me in a very exited but still a bit reserved way, thinking maybe he heard me wrong. "Yeah, a run!" Full front paws to my stomach push and full waggle of the tail. He understood now.

Quick change into winter running clothes. Bring out the gaiters and gortex Inov 8 shoes. Booties for Topaz. Write a note for Troy and off we go-neighborhood 6 mile run.

No plows out but there were a pair of tire tracks I ran in. The snow was really blowing, blizzard conditions. Topaz was leaping over the drifts, sprinting back and forth, rolling full body rolls into the snow. I couldn't help but laugh and smile during our whole run. No traffic, no loose dogs; just a winter wonderland. I felt like Topaz and I were spending our time inside of a snowglobe. It was fabulous!

I realized that this is definitely a 'get to' and not a 'have to'. As frustrated as I was running that half marathon on Saturday I am grateful that I am able to run, that I am recovered, that I am healthy.

Yesterday afternoon when Troy came home from baseball he told me that they were doing crunches and push ups-they are doing 'finger' push ups. You do a push up with your finger tips-strength training for fingers I guess as they are used during baseball. OK. "Mom, I haven't seen you doing push ups or crunches since your surgery" "Um, yeah, I guess I haven't tried them yet" "Well? Come on, lets go" "OK" Now, prior to surgery I could do 100+ push ups. Over the years I have worked up from 1 to as many as I have time for, at least 100 every day. Why? I don't know. Because there was a time I couldn't do 1. Now I can, and it is fun to have Troy count them out, then I count his out. Good times.

I could only do 45 push ups. I was really bummed out. After I stopped Troy said "Mom, you know that 45 is really good, you shouldn't be so sad. Most people can't do 45" "Yeah, but Troy, I could. I could do more and now I can't. That's the pits" As the night wore on I did a few more sets of 10, but not consecutively and not 100. My crunches were as good as ever.

A bit later I was thinking about the push ups and was upset. Silly, I know. But I was upset enough that before I knew it I was baking a Waldorf Astoria Red Cake.

Troy was playing XBOX with Tyler online, he came up to do his homework and sniffed the air. "I smell baking, what are you making?" "Don't ask. I'm not telling you" "Oh boy, your making Red Cake" "Yeah. I was sad at the push ups" "Mom, why do you make Red Cake when you are sad"?

Good Question.

"I don't know. I don't know if it is because the act of baking a Red Cake makes me happy as Red Cake is a family tradition, I make it for special events, happy events. Or if it is because I felt badly about myself and if I felt I might as well eat 1000 calories of cake because I already felt like a loser..probably the latter..."

"Oh Mom. That's silly. You are not a loser" "Troy, you are so smart and you are so right".

I just frosted the cake. The desire to eat it is gone.

I think that because my recovery went so well I thought I'd just jump right back to where I was fitness wise. I know that what is worthwhile to me does not come easy. I enjoy a challenge. The running will come as will the push ups.

I may even head over to Gold's today to try lifting..and pull ups..

Team Ortho Lucky 7 Half Marathon

2011-03-20T12:09:00.000-05:00

I may be healed but I am not trained.

Ugh.

Before I made the decision to have a hysterectomy I had planned on completing the UMTR Ultra Gnarly Bandit Series. 4 - 100 mile ultra marathons in the Midwest. Well, once the hysterectomy became a reality I realized I +may+ not be ready for Zumbro 100 in April (you think?).

I came up with another plan. The Team Ortho Monster Series. A 10K, Half Marathon, Marathon, Duathalon and another Half Marathon. I ran the 10K Polar Dash in January the second race was yesterday. Participants could either run a 7K or 21K (Half Marathon). I opted for the Lucky Half Marathon. I had a quick thought of pinning a tag to my back stating that I was only 7 weeks post op as a reason for my suckage.

My surgeon gave me his blessing to resume running two weeks ago. With 6 weeks off and a major surgery I knew running might be difficult..but I thought my body would catch on quickly. My running has been on a hiking trail under a few feet of snow. Lots of hills, lots of slow running. Well, not lots..nothing over 10 miles. I ran 10 miles last week. This run was partly on the trail with Topaz and it was so cold and slippery and tough on the trail that I ran the remaining miles on my treadmill. With an hour of driving and changing (rest) inbetween. This does not a half marathon make, I know realize..as if I didn't before.

As I have mentioned before, I really like the Team Ortho races. Except that I had to make a 4 hour round trip to packet pickup on Friday. That was the pits-rush hour and all.

Saturday morning it was 21F, a big moon hovering in the sky as I drove toward Minneapolis. As I neared Minneapolis the sky became cloudy and it was snowing. I was so glad I decided to wear long pants, gloves, ear band, light jacket and long sleeved thin top. I haven't run in shorts yet this year. It was windy too.

Race organization was excellent. Free parking at the Ford Plant. As I neared the plant volunteers were flagging cars in, directing up to parking slots. Awesome. I headed out a few minutes before race time and bumped into Monica. I first met Monica while working for Berkley, and later, at FANS 24 Hour Run. Now I see Monica regularly at races. Cool.

We chit chatted and waited for the GO. My plan was to go SLOW, a full two minutes per mile slower than usual, including 1 minute walk after each mile. I stayed true to this plan the whole race and then even added a few minutes. Egads.

I was cautious and maybe a little nervous at the beginning, wondering if I really was healed. I really didn't worry about the training. It didn't occur to me that surgery and 6 weeks off would really make that much of a difference.

I just trotted along the course, listening to conversation around me, noticing that I was running with a group of people that I haven't been running with lately. It reminded me of when I first began to run races. Many near me were running their first halfs, it was cool to listen to their excitement and future racing plans.

At 5 miles I saw the front leaders coming back, man, they were hauling ass and were running uphill. The course was hilly, mostly downhill on the way out with the wind in our face and mostly uphill on the way back with the wind at our backs. I ate a gel here, a few glasses of power ade and trudged along, making sure to walk a full minute after each mile. I was running 10 minute miles and was OK with that, although I was a bit miffed that a 10 minute mile wasn't feeling all that easy.

At 8 miles I began to get dizzy. It kind of freaked me out. I was running up a hill, stitches on both sides, and became dizzy. I slowed to a walk and heard this gasping. Is that me? I turned down my music and sure enough, I was gasping and wheezing. I was quite perturbed at myself. Why do I have side stitches, why am I dizzy and why am I gasping for air. Hello I'm running an 11 minute mile at this point. Hello you just had surgery and haven't run for 6 weeks. Bla bla bla. On and on I went. At the top of the hill I sat on a curb. Really! I've never sat down during a race on the curb. What the hell. There was an aid table near so I got up and grabbed a gel and some drink, feeling a bit better.

I began to run again, slowly, like real slow. 11 minute miles now. Up hill I ran, falling in back of the 2 hour pace team. I kept having contradictory thoughts. Oh my god, catch them, you have not had to train for a half marathon in 10 years..oh, no, wait, this isn't about catching anyone, it's about getting the distance in. How can this be so hard? It's a freaking half marathon...

I couldn't believe the difficulty I was having. I was really struggling. Its not like speed comes naturally to me anyhow. Normally I am running 60-80 miles per week and work hard for every bit of speed I can muster. My fast twitch muscles like to rest and I coerce them out of their rest weekly. Not now. They are in hibernation mode.

Finally I came up on mile 12, knowing that the end was near and just so thankful that I could at least run a half marathon at 7 weeks post op. It was difficult, I was fed up with myself for struggling so, but in the end I did reach the goal I had set upon myself. I ran the distance.. in 2:17 .. I have a starting point .. even if I feel as though I am starting over..

I tried not to think about Chippewa 50K next month, Ice Age 50 Mile in May and Bighorn 100 in June. I wasn't thinking positively enough to be thinking about future races.

After the race I was handed a bag of food and received so much schwagg for this race, it's kind of over the top.

I do love that I don't have to stand in a mob of people for my shirt, medal, food. ALL of the food is in a paper bag, handed to you. Very nifty.

Today Topaz and I headed off to the trail for a run. There is still 14" of snow and ice on the trail. Yes, I stuck a ruler into the snow and measured. I am hoping that there is at least a few inches less when I measure tomorrow! I ran 8 miles and felt tightness but no pain. If this snow doesn't melt soon I'll have to leave Topaz at home and get some road miles in. He'll be devastated but I'll be devastated if I can't finish Chippewa 50K! I'll need to run 20 next weekend and 25 before my Zumbro 100 shift. We'll see.

So the good news is that I am healed. I may not be well trained but I am well healed. The training will come.

And dear blogger, where is the spell check?

Zumbro 100 Mile Endurance Run

2011-03-11T16:30:00.004-06:00

Minnesota is offering some pretty sweet 100 mile ultra marathons. With Arrowhead 135, Superior Sawtooth and FANS 24 Hour Run we now have Zumbro 100, in its third year this April.

Zumbro 100 is held Friday, April 8 at the Zumbro Bottoms State Forest Recreation Area
in Wabasha, MN. Before the race was in existence Larry held crazy fat ass runs down here. He had us running through chest deep water on a 40 F degree day. The first few years he didn't mark any course, we were handed out maps of the area. You know how well I do with maps! The first time I just gave up, lost, waiting for someone to find me. The second year I actually figured out a way out and back and the third and fourth year Larry had orange, yellow and green ribbon corresponding with orange, yellow and green highlighting on maps that he handed out for us, color depicting different trail and mileage. What a treat! I didn't become lost!

In 2009 Zumbro 100 came to be. I haven't yet run the race, only the fat asses prior to the races existence. I normally head to IL for McNaughton 100. This year due to recovery I will be manning an aid station at Zumbro 100 and doing some running before and after my shift. I am sure looking forward to it!

Zumbro is accepting runners. Check out this link for information and why don't you LIKE us on Facebook here.

If you click Zumbro on the sidebar you will see photos/blog posts from past Zumbro fun.

It's payday today. I'm going to enter another race.

Back to Running!

2011-03-10T08:18:00.002-06:00

Almost one week past my release of restrictions! Yay! Needless to say, I've been running each day since. I realized, once again, that walking 8 miles is not the same as running even 4 miles. My muscles are sore and invigorated. A good feeling!

I didn't run on Friday when the restrictions were first lifted as I didn't have time to head out to the trail. I didn't want to spend my first run on road. Saturday morning we headed off to the state park for the first run. Ah, heaven.

The trails available for running are snowshoe trails, a whopping 3 miles out of the 28 miles of trail. The 28 miles are now reserved for skiing.

After walking these trails the last few weeks I knew what the conditions were like: bumpy lumpy deep packed snow. But the so beautiful! When I told Topaz "go for a run" he exploded down the trail,knowing we were no longer walking. It's funny how while walking he never strayed from my side, he just trudged along with me. Not Saturday, he ran way ahead, looping through the woods, having his own reunion with running.

I smiled and laughed the whole way, enjoying the hard beating of my heart, the sweat, the feel of my calves and glutes straining against the hills. Good stuff.

Sunday was another trip to the state park with new snow, breaking trail, more fun. Monday I ran the road as 4.5 more inches of snow fell and I just wanted to run, no more breaking trail. 6 miles on the road for our longest run post op. Felt good, although quite slow. That's ok. Slow and steady.

I'm following my own advice to my beginning runner clients: slow and steady with walk breaks when necessary! With the 1/2 marathon next Saturday I will run 8 tomorrow and 10 Sunday, that will have me ready for Saturday's race, the Lucky 1/2 Marathon. I'm looking forward to it!

Run On!

2011-03-04T16:12:00.004-06:00

Yes, Run Baby Run!

I had my post op appointment at Mayo Clinic today and my surgeon released me of all restrictions! Woohoo!

So happy!

He told me I healed perfectly and am 100% recovered. He asked about menopausal symptoms. I told him a few hot flashes in the evening and some night sweats. Nothing I can't handle. He offered non HRT remedies if necessary. I will call him if I need something.

Early tomorrow morning I'm driving Tyler and Amanda to the airport for their awesome week in Negril and then I'm going for a run.

Oh yeah.

Thank you for the support. I appreciate it very much.

So happy! Back to life prior to hysterectomy. Run On!

Guess I'll send in the entry for Chippewa :)

5 Weeks Post Hysterectomy

2011-03-01T11:54:00.010-06:00

Here I am at five weeks post op. Thank goodness! I'm glad to have this whole scene in my past and to move on. I was so nervous before the procedure, nervousness that was not necessary but I didn't know that of course. I'm just glad to move on.

I am doing so well. I have had an uneventful recovery which is much better than I ever imagined. I haven't had any pain, no swelling, haven't needed any narcotics since I left the hospital, quit the Tylenol/Motrin 3 weeks ago. Really. All is well. I feel 100%.

My surgical pathology report arrived last week. It was interesting to read. I learned that I had 17 tumors upon my ovaries and fallopian tubes. 13 cysts and polyps in the endometrium and fibrous adhesion to the rectum and bladder. I had moderate to severe endometriosis. The pathology report is negative for cancers. Amen!

I had to chuckle at this: General: A very pleasant thin female, she is very healthy and is an ultra-marathon runner. Her resting heart rate is 35, upon examination 43.

I had forgotten that while I was in the hospital an alarm kept sounding, coming from one of the gadgets I was hooked up to, right after surgery. Steve looked at me in alarm and went out into the hallway to let a nurse know. She came back and told us the alarm was set to ring when my heart rate went below 50. She reset the monitor. I didn't pay attention. A few minutes later the alarm began again. She came back and again reset it, asking if I was OK. She explained again that the alarm would ring when my HR dropped below 50. This time I paid attention. I told her that if it was over 50 something would be wrong with me. I told her my resting heart rate was 35 and all I was doing was laying in bed, it wasn't going to get much higher. She was stunned. She called my surgeon and told him this info. He told her that I was an ultra runner and she could safely disconnect the heart rate monitor. It was kind of funny

I can't wait to run again! Walking is becoming boring. I am walking 40-50 miles a week. Yeah, I have time on my hands that is for sure. A few weeks ago I was walking to help with the healing. Moving the gas, strengthening my limbs, stretching my body as I had been laying around so much. After feeling pretty good I was walking for Topaz's sake. He could run and get some exercise..although he never really left my side. I guess he decided he would walk too. Now I am becoming bored with walking. I mean, I am grateful that I can at least walk, but obviously I am feeling super well since I am ready to R U N!

I am no longer walking in the neighborhood, I am now hiking the trails at the State Park. After 13" of fresh snow last week I was the first to trudge through the snow. That was quite a workout! Now the snowshoe trail is pretty well packed. Today I told myself the 8 mile walk was training for Bighorn 100. It gave the walk more meaning-a mind game of mine.

I began a puzzle that has 3000 pieces. I started last week and have made some progress.

I have been doing a bit of baking and trying out new recipes. We celebrated Troy's 15th Birthday - as a leap year baby he didn't get a 29th of February this year - so we celebrated Friday, Saturday and Sunday. He decided I should try Cafe Latte's Turtle Cake. It was a hit and tasted as good as Cafe Latte.

Food Network catches my eye every once in a while. I tried the braised brisket on Sunday with potato patties and it turned out very good. I normally don't create heavy meat meals, so Steve and Troy felt this was a treat. I had a large green salad with a bit of braised beef upon it. It was very tender.

I've been planning trips, races, etc. I've entered Chippewa 50K, Ice Age 50M and Bighorn 100. One race will cover training for the next race. I'm running Lucky Half Marathon in two weeks. I can't wait. I decided it wasn't a good idea to rush into Zumbro 100 in early April. I will be a moderate person and run the Chippewa 50K instead. See, I can be moderate :) I'll see if Larry needs me at an aid station or something else for Zumbro. I'm planning on Afton 50K, BETA VI and Voyager 50 Mile in July, need something for August, Superior Sawtooth in September, October is TC Marathon and Wild Duluth.

Friday is my 6 weeks post op appointment at Mayo. I will then be released to run, to work, to do anything my little heart desires. Thank goodness!! I am SO ready. I am SO done with this hysterectomy business.

LOVE Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T13:27:00.011-06:00

I LOVE Valentine's Day. I don't care if it is a 'Hallmark' Holiday. I totally fall for this one.

I LOVE Pink and Red, I LOVE Velvet, I LOVE Lace, I LOVE Godiva, I LOVE Red Waldorf Astoria Cake, I LOVE Ribbon, I LOVE flowers, I LOVE Papyrus , I LOVE Tyler, I LOVE Troy, I LOVE Steve, I LOVE Toffee and I LOVE Topaz. I LOVE it all.

I celebrate LOVE on Valentine's Day with all of the trimmings! Happy Valentine's Day to YOU!

Leadership & Latte: Speaking Engagement

2011-02-13T12:38:00.006-06:00

Prior to my surgery my friend Alicia contacted me to see if I was at all interested in speaking at an event the Minneapolis Junior League was presenting on Saturday, February 12.

The Minneapolis Junior League was holding their Leadership and Latte Day: Your Heart, Health and Happiness. The facilitator wanted to bring to the agenda a piece that would cover diet and exercise as preventative medicine for heart disease; presented by either a nutritionist, personal trainer/therapist with fitness focus or combination expert.

I hadn't had any contact with the MJL prior to this event and was a bit apprehensive to accept, simply because this event was out of my comfort zone as I typically speak to running groups. We have the common bond; running. I didn't know what I may have in common with this group. I knew they were a professional group of women who volunteered their time to benefit women and children. I didn't know how I would I would feel 2.5 weeks post surgery, another reason for my apprehension.

I did decide, yes, I would do this. I know that it is good for me to stretch out of my comfort zone and good for me to connect with others. I do enjoy sharing my story.

I was still very apprehensive.

As the week of the presentation neared I learned that I would be part of presentation that consisted of two other speakers. Dr. Joyce Wahr, a cardiac anesthesiologist as well as adjunct professor at the University of Michigan, would be speaking before me relating to the risk factors, gender data and preventative measures of woman's heart disease. After her segment Krista Post, Psychologist, would be speaking. I would be the final speaker. Now I was real apprehensive.

I entered the Excelsior and Grand Clubhouse and introduced myself to many of the women. They were very warm and very welcoming. I learned that 61 women had reserved a seat for the event. I was directed to place my literature upon the table for the members attending. As I reached for the agenda I was shaking with nervousness.

Dr. Joyce Wahr delivered a great presentation. I learned very much from her as she spoke about women and heart disease. We had a break and Krista then spoke about the components of emotional well-being. There was no break between Krista and I. I was introduced "Julie will share with us an inspirational story of how one woman has embraced life-changing habits to lead to a more heart healthy life" and up to the front of the banquet room I went.

I looked into the eyes of the women, I began to deliver my presentation. During my presentations I don't hold any notes, I don't use the projector or power point, I don't use photos. I speak from my heart. Just myself and my audience. I spoke to these women about how I changed my life..one step at a time and how those baby steps led to lifestyle changes. Big lifestyle changes. It is a very personal history and one I enjoy sharing very much.

The women laughed with me, they even cried with me. At the end of my presentation they asked many questions and let me know that I did in fact inspire and motivate them. I was asked if I was willing to speak at upcoming events. I've received phone calls and email to see if I will schedule other speaking engagements.

I enjoyed myself so much. I love to share of myself in this way. To let others know that yes, you can change your behaviors, today, to live a healthier lifestyle. It isn't too late. You do get another chance!

I'm going to run with this, to polish my speaking, to accept these speaking engagements, to share myself with others. It's an offer I don't want to refuse.

2 Weeks Post Op

2011-02-08T08:00:00.010-06:00

Thank you for all of the cards, texts, emails and phone calls. They mean a lot to me. I have a new appreciation for get well cards! A little something that means so much. Thanks again.

My first week at home had me out of sorts. I imagine the anesthesia stayed in my system for a while, as well as the pain meds I was taking in the hospital. Steve stayed home on Wednesday, went back to work on Thursday and then went to a pool tournament for the weekend. I wasn't on meds anymore so was able to drive Troy about. Just getting dressed and running one errand wore me out. I would be back home on the couch within minutes. I was able to begin walking without pain, just a bit of dizziness. My first week home I was walking 1-2 miles outdoors each day which seemed like a huge victory.

Week two went much smoother. I wasn't so tired all of the time and spent less time in bed or on the couch. I used Netflix and watched an array of movies: The Expendables, Time Travelers Wife, Hangover, WallStreet (II), Salt, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo; I finished a few books: Let Me In (spooky freaky), Winter Garden (so sad) and decided to read again one of my absolute favorite series (as well as Tyler's and Troy's) Terry Goodkind's Sword Series. I love it. I'm reading the first one now and can't put it down. There are like 12 books in the series and each book is 1000 pages long. Fabulous. It's been a few years since I last read the series.

Last week I was able to walk up to 5 miles each day. My surgeon stated "no exercise for 6 weeks but you can walk as much as you want to" "walking isn't exercise, not even like 10 miles?" "no, not really" Interesting hu? The media has us believe that walking 30 minutes a day can reduce fat, risk of heart disease, increase cardiovascular health but really, it doesn't make much of a change in a person. It is a great stepping stone to better health but in of itself, not so much. I don't think they (government? health industry? media?) believe that the average joe or jane will try to change their lifestyle if they are told they need to elevate their heart rate to 80% of max in order to reap benefit. That might be too uncomfortable and too far out of the comfort zone to contemplate. OK, off my soap box.

So I am walking 6 miles this week. Topaz probably runs about 10 because he is running up in front of me, herding me, having a great time.

Today it is -18F in Big Lake with a -34F wind chill. I actually placed hand warmers into my mittens and wore 3 layers top and bottom. Topaz sported heavy booties. Brrr!

My routine this past week is not too exciting. I have breakfast with Troy, drive him to school, go for a walk, read..facebook.. (too much) .. movie.. nap..walk to the bus stop to meet Troy .. at least I'm fixing dinner now .. go for another walk .. Biggest Loser or American Idol .. bed time ..

Last Sunday I ventured out for the first time other than a quick drop off. It was fabulous. I had lunch with my awesome friends at CRAVE at the Galleria. We were celebrating Tom's 30 year anniversary of sobriety. It was interesting to note that the majority of us are ultra runners and sober. It felt so very good to get out to see great friends, great conversation and a great meal. I had 101 questions to ask John and Jason as they had just returned from running the Arrowhead 135.(Click on the Arrowhead Link and watch the video. It is of the bikers - this race allows bike, ski and foot - and the scenery, the people, outstanding. But why not any runners in video? Oh well..) John won it again, finishing in 40 some hours and secured an entry to the Iditarod Trail Invitational 350 awesome video here, too. Wow. I was seated near Jason so I asked him 101 questions and told him that he could tell me at any time to stop asking. He never did. So I asked away..and learned a lot.

After I left Edina I picked up Troy from church and returned home to make dinner for the Superbowl half time. Troy had requested Giada's Twice Baked Potatoes. As I was prepping dinner I realized I wasn't exhausted. I had been up and about most of the day and felt very good. What a great turn of events.

So as I enter this third week of post op I am feeling very grateful for my uneventful recovery. My strength is returning, I am healing, I am not as tired as I was in the previous days.

Next Saturday I am speaking to the Minneapolis Junior League relating to healthy lifestyle/inspiration and motivation. The next few days will have me running my presentation through my mind, making less time for movies. That is a good thing!

There is bad news, however. Yesterday Mom learned that her ovarian cancer has spread to her lungs and liver. We are devastated. Her CA 125 had been on the increase and her latest scan revealed the bad news. However, she responded greatly to the chemo 6 years and again 3 years ago. We are very hopeful that she will again respond in the same manner. Today Mom has her first chemo treatment. We are praying that the chemo will be as effective as it has been in the past.

Hysterectomy: Rest and Recovery

2011-01-27T11:23:00.003-06:00

Sheesh, Rest and Recovery is usually followed by the name of the last 100 mile race I ran. Well, this is a different type of rest and recovery. Much longer!

The prep for surgery went well. I drank 30 oz of magnesium sulfate at 6 PM, stopped solids and was able to have clear liquids until 4 AM. I didn't feel like the MS 'cleaned' me out like it was supposed to. I guess with my clean diet I don't have that much up to clean out? I had a few BM's nothing out of the ordinary.

Troy had Monday off from school, teacher workshop, so I told him he could choose how he wanted the day to play out. We could get a hotel in Rochester Sunday night, he could swim and spend the day between the hotel and hospital or he could stay home, with Dad returning home Monday evening. Or he could get up with us and leave for Rochester at 530AM. He chose to stay home. I was good with that.

Steve and I left at 530, I had my final cup of coffee at 4. I was calm, was having thoughts of returning home the next day.

Originally, when I was first speaking of hysterectomy with my local gynecologist she told me I would have to have a full abdominal surgery. Much like my incision from the two C Sections I have had. I was just really dreading that recovery. After I met with Dr. Dowdy, my gynecologic oncologist, from Mayo Clinic, he told me that wasn't so. He was going to preform the daVinci robotic procedure, with 5 small incisions. This changed my outlook. I wasn't so terrified of the recovery. Still a major surgery, but no hip to hip incision unless he found cancer.

Steve and I made it to Mayo 30 minutes early as is my nature. We checked in, they showed us to a room where I changed into hospital gown, was tagged, gave myself two fleet enemas (new experience and absolutely NO biggie), a medicated douche, had my IV inserted. Steve placed my boots, clothes, coat into patient bags with my tags attached, took my iPhone (my lifesaver!), my glasses, ID and insurance card. We just waited. I was beginning to get a bit nervous so practiced deep breathing and made Steve participate. He did whatever I told him to do. He was more nervous and afraid than I was.

About 30 minutes later a surgical nurse came to introduce herself. She told Steve to follow us and we would drop him off at the waiting lounge, he would be escorted to my room following surgery. They would call him on his cell as soon as surgery began and with an update every hour. Very nice.

We dropped Steve off and headed for the surgical wait room. I was lined up with a dozen or more other patients, with big curtains in between us. Surgical teams were coming to the patients, asking name and address, talking about procedure, etc. The woman next to me said she had lung disease. The nurse asked if she always used oxygen "except when I'm smoking" ish.

The surgical nurse came to introduce herself to me, the anaesthesiologist, Dr. Dowdy arrived and initialized my ovaries upon my abdomen. He told me that he had decided to complete a radical total vaginal hysterectomy. There would be NO incision and shorter period of time in surgery. I asked him if I would have less restrictions-can I go back to work earlier? No. Still a major surgery, still 6-8 weeks off, just no incision and less surgical time. OK then. He told me that vaginal hysterectomy causes fewer complications than the other types and is a very safe way to remove the uterus, cervix, tubes and ovaries. He told me it is not possible for woman with thick stomach fat or women who have adhesion from prior surgery. He told me the C Sections wouldn't give him a problem.

A few moments later I was wheeled to my operating room. Everyone welcomed me and introduced themselves. It was like a party. Real crazy, outgoing, warm. Dr Dowdy told them all I was an ultra runner and that is what the topic of conversation was. It calmed me. A man told me his mother has ovarian cancer and his sister just had a hysterectomy. Trisha, the surgical nurse I met earlier asked me if I had a dog. We spoke of Topaz for a long time. She asked about the type of dog food I fed him and what races I was going to run for 2011. I could feel the IV drug take over, I began to speak slurred. Kevin, the anesthesiologist told me he was going to put the mask over my face and to take deep breathes. I said OK, BYE BYE! They laughed and I was off to deep sleep.

When I began to come to I heard a flurry of activity around me. Kevin, Trisha and Dr. Dowdy were asking me if I was nauseous (no) in pain (no) cold (no), I felt fine. I was wheeled up to my room, Steve was already there.

It was 230. Surgery began at 1100 and was finished at 130. I didn't have pain, I was very dizzy. My nurse helped me to the bathroom. I was able to move around well so she removed the catheter.

Around 4 Dr. Dowdy came by to recap surgery. He told me I underwent a vaginal hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectoy under general anesthesia. Surgery was uncomplicated. He said my tissue looked healthy, one ovary was enlarged with tumors, some endometriosis that he removed. Preliminary pathology looked cancer free, full pathology report next week. He felt I could be discharged the next day. Amen!

Cindy M stopped by for a visit. So wonderful to see her. We chatted, I was out of it, but so thankful to see her. Thank you Cindy!

Steve headed for home, relieved, about 5 PM to tend to Troy and then get him off to school on Tuesday morning. Steve would return Tuesday around 12 or so.

Monday evening my bladder was so full. I was walking around quite well, pushing the IV tank around. When I went to urinate I could only pass little amounts. My bladder was still full. I was drinking water and taking in the IV. Probably too much liquid.

At 5 AM the urology tech came in to measure my bladder. Full at 800 ml. She catheterized me and drained. Ah, relief. An hour later I was full again at 900 ml.

Dr. Dowdy came in to sign my release papers at 9 AM. I was ready to leave.. I thought. I didn't have an appetite but my nurse said I had to eat something solid before release. I ate a canned peach.

For pain I was taking extra strength Tylenol or Motrin every 6 hours with Oxycontin when necessary. I took the oxy two times. Other than bladder pressure I really wasn't in too much pain. A heating pad on my pelvic area felt very good.

The urology tech came by again at 3 pm, prior to discharge. I was full again at 1100 ml. She was getting worried and I thought my release might be revoked. My nurse called Dr. Dowdy. He came to my room, said that I could do one of two things: learn how to self catheterize myself and do this at home. In a day or two my bladder would settle down and I would be fine. Or, stay in the hospital with a catheter over night. Ugh! I didn't want to stay another night. I wanted to go home. Troy had a field trip the next day, it was his first day of the new semester (Tuesday) and I already missed talking about it. I wanted to be home. I told him I'd learn to self catheterize. He told me it as a piece of cake and the right decision.

The urology tech came back to teach me how. I didn't get it the first time. Darn it! She drained me and said she'd be back in an hour to give me another try. Dr. Dowdy called me and told me she would only observe me this next time, that I had to do it myself. OK. She came back and I was successful. It was kind of painful. My poor girlie parts were becoming irritated and sore.

As soon as I passed the self-catheterization test Steve came back into the room. I told him 'we are out of here'. I quickly changed into my fuzzy fleecy comfy clothing, had Steve pack my bag and we were out of there. I was wheeled to the discharge where Steve was waiting with the car.

The drive home was 2.5 hours. We stopped at Target in Plymouth so I could try to get some pee out. Ugh. Drops. I could feel my bladder filling and was not looking forward to having to drain it at home. Back to the car, back home.

Oh, so happy to be home! Troy had a big hug and flowers for me. Topaz went crazy and just whined and layed his head into my forehead. It was so good to be home.

Tuesday evening I did a self-cath. It went well, I was glad I decided to learn the process so that I could be home. It was absolutely fabulous climbing into my king size Select Comfort bed. Ah. All of my down blanket and duvet. Ah. Hot pad, all set. I slept until 11PM and woke to pee. I walked the 4 steps to the master bath. Topaz, laying at the foot of the bed, followed me into the bathroom. He put his paws upon my knees and kissed my face like I had been gone forever. As I was petting his ears I peed..and peed..I emptied my bladder! Oh, relief. I was so happy. So happy. I hoped I wouldn't need that damn self catheter kit again. I probably just needed to relax at home and forget about it.

Wednesday morning I was able to get out of bed quite well, only a bit of pressure in the pelvic region. I came downstairs and had coffee with Steve. He was taking another day off. I woke Troy, made him a lunch for the Romeo and Juliet field trip to the Guthrie Theatre. Steve took Troy to school and I was wiped out from that little bit of moving around! I climbed back into bed.

Steve came home, tried to walk Topaz but Topaz just kept coming back to the house, looking for me. Eventually Topaz went for a while. Steve did laundry, vacuuming, bathrooms, etc. I told him I was just going to sleep so go ice fishing or something. He headed off to do just that and would be home by the time Troy came in from school at 3.

At 215 I headed out for a walk with Topaz. The sun was shining and it was 30F! A heat wave. I had to feel some sun on my face. I am lumbering on down the driveway, so slow. Topaz is flying around the culdesac wondering where the heck is Mom? I made it about half way to the bus stop when I see Troy and Steve coming down our road. Steve followed Troy's bus and picked him up. Troy hopped out of the truck and walked back with me and Topaz to the house. Troy said 'Mom, this worse than your 100 mile race moving, you are slow moving traffic' yea, it sure was. That little outing had me tired again. I'll have to leave the house quite a bit earlier to actually make it to the bus stop on time. I could feel the pressure and knew it was time for my 6 hour Motrin dose.

Last night I came down to watch American Idol-god Steven Tyler is great on that show. Love him! Slept well last night, no sweats, no emotional upheavals, no menopausal symptoms as of yet.

I drove Troy to school today. Dr. said as long as I'm off the oxy that I can do so. I'm drinking lots of water, drinking prune juice and eating prunes-no painful BMs! Everything is really going well. I ate some canned chicken, Dijon mustard and shredded cabbage today. No more performing self-catheterizing. Ugh. That is something I can do without.

After bringing Troy to school I walked Topaz down the street. Came home and slept a few hours. I finally took a shower-had to laugh to see the doc's initials on my sides.

I think it is time for another nap!

This recovery is going well. I'm physically exhausted, to be expected I know. I will take it very easy and slowly.

Thank you so much for all of the cards, emails, texts, etc. I appreciate it so very much.

Off to the Castle

2011-01-24T04:40:00.002-06:00

Yes, that is imagery at its finest. I am a princess heading off to the castle!

This past week I have prepared things at home for my castle stay. Hopefully I have over prepared and will only be at Mayo one night. If not, I have a few dozen meals ready in the freezer. Simply heat up and serve when I return from home.

The pantry is fully stocked, refrigerator is full. The laundry is cleaned, pressed and put away. Linens are changed and house is clean.

Notes for Troy's upcoming field trip, snowboard club, etc. All set.

I have estroven, estroven PM, stool softners, prune juice, gingerale, one a day menopause, many books, DVDs ready at home.

Yesterday I ran hard. It will be my last time for a while. Topaz and I enjoyed it greatly. Bittersweet; like saying goodbye to a best friend.

Last night I packed a bag: favorite down blanket, Magical Unicorn pillow pet, best fuzzy pink robe, slippers and pjs. Hair tie, brush, lotion, many magazines, book, iPhone, thank you cards, lifesavers, gum.

I hope to be back home tomorrow.

It's 445 AM. Check in is at 830. This Princess is on her way to the Castle.

Load up the Chariot, let's get this show on the road. See you on the post-op side!

The Big "H": Hysterectomy

2011-01-18T16:47:00.008-06:00

Yeah, it's official. I have eluded to medical problems lately. Now it is confirmed and scheduled. Hysterectomy. Total Radical Hysterectomy with Bilateral Salpingo Oophorectomy.

Monday, January 24.

This involves the removal of uterus, both ovaries and of both tubes.(Insert SCREAM here)

I've put it off for six years. I only hope that I don't regret putting it off as long as I have. It was just never the right time, I had too much to do, races to run, who wants to sit around for 6-8 weeks for recovery and was it really necessary?

Ever since my Mom was diagnosed with Stage III Ovarian Cancer six years ago I have had ovarian cancer screenings every six months. My local gynecologist told me every six months that she felt I should have a hysterectomy soon (but not how soon), that the cancer screenings I was having were better than nothing, (but not that good), that it was too bad I wasn't in menopause yet because sudden surgical menopause is a bitch. So I waited. I continued with a trans-vaginal ultrasound every six months, a CA 125 blood test and promised myself I'd have a hysterectomy..soon...whenever that is..

Six years later and I have begun to have pain. Now, I have a high tolerance for pain. I have had 'doubled over at the waist' kind of pain from my ovaries. Sharp, jabbing pain. It scared me. My periods became heavy nasty affairs that I had never ever had before. My ultrasound showed tumors for the first time. My CA125 has increased for the first time. This time I took hysterectomy seriously.

I made an appointment with a gynecologic oncologist at Mayo Clinic for a second opinion. He looked at my familial cancer tree. See, my Dad created this document for I and my sister after Mom was diagnosed. It goes back 4 generations and lists all of the cancers with the relations. Very awesome. My surgeon commented on how great it was to have my 'cancer tree' at his fingertips. He then examined me. He asked me what the hell had I had been waiting for. My reasons (excuses) sounded ridiculous coming from my own mouth. I told him so. He did more than suggest a hysterectomy. He insisted. I let him schedule one for me.

The hope is that this will be proactive to cancer, not a treatment for cancer. During the surgery he will send tissue to pathology. If no cancer, he'll finish, I'll be on my to recovery. If there is cancer, he will remove it and I'll treat as necessary.

I am actually very lucky. My Mom gave me a gift of knowledge that she didn't have. She didn't realize she was at risk, didn't realize she should be screened, didn't realize that she could lessen her risks with diet and exercise.

I have had CA125 tests every six months, trans vaginal ultrasounds every six months, prescription for birth control pills as they are a risk reducer, genetic counseling, genetic testing, etc. I know my risk.

I am fortunate that I have accrued enough sick time so that I will have a paid leave of 6 weeks. I will have a job to go back to. A job that I really love and am really going to miss. Students have told me they will miss me, miss talking with me 'and who is going to bring us Bath and Body lotions and soaps?' I brought in a few of each today for my desk so that they don't run out while I'm away. I told them to think of me while I'm gone.

..and then I think..oh my god, what am I going to do for 6 weeks? I will go back to work in the SPRING. SPRING. That's crazy. 6 weeks? Really?

..and sudden surgical menopause? Great. Sweet. Memory loss, hot flashes, no desire for sex, fatigue, irritability, mood swings, depression, anxiety, insomnia, weight gain, joint pain, stiffness to name a few. No wonder I put this off. I am not a candidate for HRT because of my cancer risk.

My surgeon told me that because I am lean, fit and strong that I should recovery quickly. He told me that I am at a lower risk for infection and other complications because I am in great shape.

He told me I may have to scratch Zumbro 100 for April; or not? I make a great cheerleader. I can work an aid station. If I can't run I'll be there to help out.

I've changed my way of thinking. 6-8 weeks of recovery is a whole lot better than treating for cancer. I'm now looking forward to the surgery so that I can heal, recover and move on.

So ultra girls, do tell: how long post hysterectomy until you ran your next 100? Or until you began to train for it, or until you began to RUN?

Wish me luck. I need it. 6 weeks of recovery. Good grief.

Yaktrax

2011-01-10T20:41:00.003-06:00

Last week I received a pair of Yaktrax in the mail to test. I had mentioned in my post regarding Tuscobia 50K that I have never tried Yaktrax , Kahtoola or any other spikes and what do you know-Yaktrax to the rescue!

Because it was 40 degrees and rainy all day on December 30 and then froze during the night I had a nice icy surface to try the Yaktrax out December 31. I decided to run my neighborhood route-not wanting to venture out driving on the glare ice roads to the State Park.

I began in the darkness, without a headlamp. I wanted to enjoy the quiet darkness to decompress, meditate. I felt all ‘peopled’ out and just wanted some quite time.

As I walked down the driveway I could see a glare off of the driveway from the moon as I walked to the street. Topaz bolted down the driveway and skidded into the cul-de-sac as he turned the corner. Ha, it was slippery!

I bent down to touch the surface. Real icy. I moved my feet forward and back upon the ice, no slipping. I could kind of feel the coils catch the ice, the sensation was little different that without the Yaktrax. I was ready to give these things a try.

Apprehensively, I began to jog. Initially I could sense that there was something attached to my shoes. I was wearing trail shoes with a substantial lug sole. The Yaktrax only added a few ounces. I could feel the coil inbetween the sole and the ice. As I became more comfortable with them I began to run. Before I knew it I had forgotten all about the Yaktrax. I was enjoying the run through the neighborhood, watching the sunrise, laughing at Topaz as he rolled in the snow to cool down.

I was testing the Yaktrax Pro. They attach to the shoe with a soft rubber frame which has coils that run along the bottom of the shoe. They are spikeless but give great traction in ice and snow. I was very impressed with the grip they gave.

Since December 31 I have worn the Yaktrax for 45 of the past 80 miles I have run. The miles without the Yaktrax were miles upon snowshoes. They have held up great-there is no wear that I can see. I have worn them in weather as cold as -14F, in light fluffy snow, packed snow and ice.

Thank you for sending them my way!

Onto 2011!

2011-01-04T16:51:00.009-06:00

It is hard for me to believe that 2010 is already past and here we are, into 2011. Speedy!

I think I just finished up the best holiday ever. It was so wonderful to have the whole family home again. Tyler had a few days off of work so he was able to stay home and then commuted on the days he had to work. We really had a great time. I was smiling and laughing the whole time, just feeling great.

I decided to take the whole Holiday off from work. It was so much fun! We went sliding, skiing, movies, travel; a whole lot of fun. Just fabulous!

I was also able to spend some time at Afton with my friends, I had a few runs with my sister and long runs with Topaz. Really a great Holiday.

This past year I just wanted to spend a whole lot of time at home. I'm so glad that I did! 2010 brought on a whole lot of change. Troy entered high school, Tyler graduated from high school, moved out and entered college, I took a break from ultra running and focused on bodybuilding for a few months, then ventured back to running.

I am not sure what 2011 will bring. I have some medical issues I have to take care of. I was beginning to have some problems as my planned BB show arrived in October and had to put it on the shelf.

As for races I have two plans. If all goes well I’d like to compete in the Ultra Gnarly Bandit Series as I outlined earlier. Four 100 mile races that UMTR is putting on. If all doesn’t go so well I have entered the Monster Series as a back up. Gotta have a back up plan! The Monster Series is a group of races that Team Ortho puts on. The first, Polar Dash, took place on the 1st. I enjoyed it very much. The second race is the Get Lucky in March, the Minneapolis Marathon in June, the Minneapolis Duathlon in August and the Monster Dash in October.

I’m also going to do a number of snowshoe races this winter. In the past I have only competed in the Northwoods Snowshoe – the snowshoe marathon in Duluth – last year was the last year it was held. I’m going to do the snowshoe half marathon in River Falls this Saturday and a 20 mile snowshoe at Murphy in a few weeks. I imagine I’ll run the Winter Carnival ½ marathon, too. It is suprising that there are so many races in January in Minnesota. I am having a sled put together by Ed at Ed’s Wilderness Systems. I want to practice pulling this winter, become confident with my equipment and winter camping; then go for the 75 at Tuscobia next December. Woot!!

I no longer make "New Year Resolutions". Most of the ones I have made in the past I followed through with and they became lifelong habits. For 2011 I am grateful, I am living in the moment, I am feeling joy. That's enough for me.

Happy New Year to you all! 2011 will be all that we want it to be!

Team Ortho Polar Dash 10K

2011-01-01T14:28:00.006-06:00

After running my first Team Ortho race last year, which was the Polar Dash 10K, I just had to come back for another Polar Dash. It really is a 'cool' race. Try cold-downright brittle frigid cold.

Last year I arrived an hour before the start and had to walk 2 miles to the start. With -20F windchill this morning I left earlier for a closer jog to the start. I still had to register so that meant an out and back before the race began.

Our thermometer at home showed -6, windchill of -28F. Minneapolis/St Paul 2F, -17 windchill. I decided to wear two pair of pants, two long sleeved thin tops, jacket, heavy turtlefur hat and neck gaiter, thermal gloves and wind mitts, smartwool socks, inov 8 gortex shoes.

I arrived to race start in plenty of time for close parking. I brought my heavy hooded coat to wear over my running clothes to the registration. I was toasty! Registered for the event, on a lap top, no writing on an entry form here, and entered the Monster Series. I noticed that there were shuttle buses for today's race but I didn't want to get cold waiting around for a bus. Although, the buses were prompt after the race and the organizers had gear drop. Amazing. So well organized and really, Team Ortho thinks of everything. I am very impressed with this organization.

I trotted back to my car, surfed the net, read a bit, undressed..dressed and finally went back to the start with 10 minutes to spare. The Shriners Hospital was headquarters. We were able to seek shelter in the lower level of the parking ramp-there were even heating torches to huddle under.

A fuzzy penguin announced that the race began in 4 minutes to I shivered out to the start line. I couldn't help but laugh all the way to the start line. Here are 2000 people, Minnesota hardy, ready to run a 10K when it is -17 some windchill, just for fun. What a great way to kick of 2011! I loved it.

I had no goal time really except with a hope to finish under an hour and a second faster than last year. I didn't believe this to be possible as I ran one of my highest mileage weeks this year plus skied for a day. It is only Saturday I have tomorrow to add to the weekly mileage. I'm at 72 so of course I'll run 8 to make an even 80.

I did't hear the start but pretty soon we began to shuffle-I wasn't cold but every once in a while a gust would find my eyes. The rest of me was totally covered. I crossed the start line, heard my chip buzz and started my watch. Off we went!

The course was pretty clear of ice, there was a bit of clumpy snow here and there but it was much better than what I've been running on lately. I didn't bring along my iPod, I was just going to listen to conversations around me.

We ran along the Mississippi River, up a few hills and down, a nice portion of the Twin Cities Marathon course. I had to pull down my turtlefur neck gaitor, I was getting warm. I removed my gloves as I ran up a hill, stuffed them into a pocket. I would retrieve them as I ran against the wind later.

There were course Marshall's along the course, cheering and ringing bells, taking pictures. Poor people! They were bundled up but were not running. They had to be freezing. Every one I ran past I yelled Happy New Year and they would comment on my big smile. I was having a blast. I felt great, so awesome to be running in the New Year.

At the turn around I looked at my watch and read :28. Good deal. Keep it up. Wow, made the corner and holy wind. The gusts were right at us. I pulled my gloves and mittens back on, pulled my hat down over my eyebrows and my neck gaitor up over my nose. It is quite a feeling to be running downhill but not gaining any momentum because the 35 mph wind is adding so much resistance. Crazy! I was still very comfortable, running within myself, enjoying the course.

Mile 5 and I heard a woman say "Bald Eagle" and point straight above us. There is was, gliding through the wind, effortlessly. So cool.

My eyes were watering from the wind, eyelashes freezing together. No snow today, just wind.

I crossed the finish line in 55 minutes, a few minutes faster than last year. Woohoo!

I stopped my watch and heard comments on the big smile I was wearing. It was awesome fun, everyone should be smiling! I collected another fabulous medal and was handed a Whole Foods bag-filled with banana, muscle milk, salted nut roll and other assorted goodies. Hot drinks were served, water, whatever you needed. What a class act.

I walked to my car a whole half a block away, stripped out of my wet clothes and into dry fuzzy fleece. Ahhhh...a fantastic way to start the New Year :)

46 Miles for 46 Years

2010-12-31T09:22:00.003-06:00

46! The years just go by more and more quickly. Amazing.

This year my birthday run was WET! I couldn't believe it when I woke to 38F yesterday morning with rain and a high of 42 forecast for the day. Crazy.

Topaz and I began at Lake Maria State Park for a snowshoe start to the day. There is only about 9 miles of hiking/snowshoe trail and I didn't want to repeat 5 times. I would be finishing my run on road. Wet road.

It was still dark so I couldn't see the trail conditions, but I sure felt them. Soft. Real soft. The rain hadn't yet begun, just a barely able to feel it drizzle, it might have only been wet fog. My snowshoes sunk only a bit in the beginning, I was able to run the 9 miles on top of the snow most of the time. The thick tree cover and heavy fog kept the trail in OK condition most of the time. Until the fog broke, the light came through and the rain POURED upon us. Running on snowshoe in the pouring rain, I think that is a new one.

I pulled my jacket back on and was surprised that the rain wasn't soaking me to the skin. I was warmer than I liked but I didn't want to get a cold soaking. After a few more hours my snowshoes were no longer necessary. I was sinking completely to the dirt trail. Amazing. I was so glad we went skiing the day before and not today!

Once the sun came up I noticed that Topaz was digging along the trail every once in a while. He would dig a deep narrow hole, looking for something and then when I would get back to him I'd see him eating something! This happened a few times. As he was again digging in the snow I interrupted him and dug in the hole with my finger, wondering what I was going to find and bit nervous about what was going to be at the bottom of the hole. Guess what it was? M&Ms! Someone had been out on the trail and was dropping M&Ms along the way! Topaz enjoyed them. Chocolate is not good for dogs but I had already had a major chocolate episode with our last dog and knew that Topaz had not consumed enough for me to have to worry.

I headed back to the car for a change of gloves, water, SCAPS and VESPA. I had a few gels in my pocket that I was using. I am finding that I really like this VESPA. I seem to recover more quickly since I've been using it. I find that I drink more water, using more salt when using VESPA. I wasn't using Hammer Heed yesterday so the SCAPS were a good idea.

After removing my snowshoes and changing gloves and jacket I was ready to head out again. I tried to get Topaz to drink but he refused. He ate lots of melty snow and rolled in the wet snow constantly to keep himself cool. I had 24 miles in so far and decided to run upon the state park roads for a while. It felt good to run with a longer stride and to have the snowshoes off. The road was gated in spots but I had read on the park website that the blocked off roads were only prohibited to motorized vehicles.

Topaz ran in the ditch most of the time, opting for the soft wet snow instead of the hard packed snow upon the road. Many times he chased after turkey, deer and squirrel and I wouldn't see him for a while. I stopped a few times, listening for him in the woods. He just doesn't run out of energy. I was running out of energy!

By the time 46 miles was done I was beat. I was thankful that I had run Tuscobia the week prior; it made for a great training run for my birthday run! Tomorrow's Polar Dash will be s l o w recovery run as today's 10 miler was.

A birthday celebration dinner at Pittsburgh Blue last night with my family topped off the birthday day. Fabulous!

MERRY CHRISTMAS

2010-12-25T11:27:00.002-06:00

Tuscobia Winter Ultra Marathon

2010-12-20T16:37:00.008-06:00

Well, I don't know what is up with blogger photos. I put them all in order in the text and look at them, all up above in a bunch. Boo.
There is Wayne and I on the bus to the start and Wayne, Vicky and Marcus ready to begin the run. There is one of Wayne and another runner climbing up a hill, the Christmas light display with me.

A few weeks ago I was looking for an ultra to run before the end of the year and
found the Tuscobia Winter Ultra Marathon. I hadn’t heard of the race before so
as I looked it up I learned that it takes place in Wisconsin on the Tuscobia
State Trail. This trail is a 74 mile abandoned railroad grade that is used as a
snowmobile trail during the winter months. The trail runs southwest from Park
Falls to Rice Lake, WI.

This race offers a run, bike or ski/skijour option. I would be running-although
I did think about the skijour option. Topaz and I have enjoyed it very much but
the cabin I rented didn’t allow dogs.

The race offers three distances: 50K, 75 Mile and 150 Mile. The gear
requirement for all three races includes headlamp, flashing red LED lights on
front and back, water carrier, 10” reflective material. For the 75M and 150M
64 oz water container, 3000 calories of food, -20F sleeping bag, insulated
sleeping pad, bivy sack or tent, 3.5 oz fuel, firestarter, stove to melt snow.

I reserved a cabin at Northern Pines Resort on Butternut Lake. Vicky recommended
it as she stayed here last year. It really was a great choice! Steve and Troy
were coming along for a fun weekend; they would ice fish while I was running.

I had intended on snowshoeing the race. I was surprised when I stopped at the
packet pickup Friday evening and learned that the participants were not
snowshoeing, that they would be running in the loose snow. Hmmm…

I didn’t know if I should use my snowshoes. I wouldn’t have the weight of the
snowshoes and the straps wouldn’t be irritating the top of my foot as they
sometimes do after 4-5 hours of running. If there wasn’t enough snow I surely
didn’t want to use them. We didn’t arrive to Butternut Lake until 8 PM so I
wasn’t going to go check out the trail at that time. I didn’t know what to do.

We navigated our way to the cabin rental It was placed right on the lake-two
bedrooms, bathroom and a large kitchen with living room. All appliances, linens,
dishes; I was very impressed. We unpacked and heated up the dinner I had
prepared at home. A few games of Jenga and we all went to bed.

The race didn’t begin until 10 AM (!) so I had a ton of time in the morning. I
fixed breakfast for all of us, packed up my gear and went next door to introduce
myself to Marcus from Duluth and to say hi to Wayne and Vicky. Steve and I were
going to follow them to the finish where we would take a bus to the start. Steve
would then know where to pick me up after the race. I told him I would be
finished in 7.5 hours.

I decided to leave the snowshoes behind. Marcus was running in Vibrams-I figured
if he could run in those I could run in my Inov 8 Gortex trail shoes! I didn’t
have spikes or screws, although Vicky offered my some screws. I didn’t feel like
taking the time to screw my shoes and because we wouldn’t be running on ice, I
didn’t think they would offer much traction in the snow.

The start temperature was 6F, the high for the day would be 10F. There was a
wind but it would be at my back, score! I wasn’t worried about getting cold. I
have the clothing figured out for running in this type of weather. I don’t want
to be too warm, cold sweat will freeze, wet clothes are not a good thing!

A school bus was waiting for us at the finish line. We boarded and were on our
way! It was so cold on the bus! My feet were absolutely freezing and this
worried me. I was wearing a new cozy pair of smartwool socks under my shoes. I
couldn’t believe how frozen my feet felt. I took my shoes off and began to rub
my feet with my hands, trying to get warm. Marcus looked at what I was doing and
was relieved that his feet weren’t the only ones that were cold. He didn’t have
on any socks, just the Vibrams.

We arrived at the start line in Winter, WI. I stayed in the bus until start
time. As we piled out I counted 26 starters. 25 run and 1 ski. Nobody was
wearing snowshoes.

As soon as we began my feet warmed up. I never noticed any cold during the race.
I was very comfortable, temperature wise.

The trail was very wide-maybe 6 feet across, well covered with snow, some rocks
strewn about. I began too fast and warmed up very quickly and saw that my first
mile was less than 10 minutes. I knew that was too fast and didn’t like that I
had allowed myself to do this. I knew this race would be difficult, mentally,
for me and I was already experiencing that. My finish goal was 7:00-7:30. I
told Steve to be at the finish in 7:30 so I checked myself and slowed down.

The miles were going by pretty quickly; I was very comfortable, drinking hammer
heed and taking gels. I was having a good time.

I knew there was a checkpoint at the halfway mark with water and gels. I
conserved my now slushy hammer heed so that I wouldn’t be dry.

When we came to a road crossing I saw Jim Wilson. He asked if I needed water,
my own Trail Angel! Jim topped off my bottles and off I went, smiling down the
trail.

I felt like a weight had been lifted off of my shoulders once I had full
bottles. I drank greedily, knowing I could refill in a few miles. Whew!

The trail began to get quite a bit softer. It seemed that the snow was deeper
and that it was churned up by snowmobiles. I kept trying to find a hard packed
area where I could run without slipping. It seemed that the outer edge of the
trail was best. I would stay there until it became soft and then hunt along the
trail for a better piece.

I noticed that Marcus’ Vibram footprint crossed back and forth over the trail as
I did. He must have been looking for firm snow as well. His print didn’t seem to
‘dig in’ to the snow as the tread of the trail shoes did. I wondered if that
made it easier. I pictured him floating across the snow. He did finish a half
hour earlier than I did.

The half way point came a bit early. My Garmin told me we were at 13 miles. I
was happy to know that the aid station was early otherwise I could have broken
down mentally, that 2.5 miles does made a difference. I asked the woman at the
station and she told me we were at 16 miles. I didn’t argue. I filled up my
bottles, grabbed a handful of gels (so thankful!), and carried on.

Each time I took a step my foot would slide a bit, only ¼” or so to the side.
Eventually this caused knee pain and pretty soon my pectinus /hip flexors weres
killing me. I don’t know that I have ever had such pain during a race before,
other than a 100 mile race.

When I caught up to Wayne I asked him if the course was short or if the aid
station was just early. He confirmed that the aid station was just early. OK,
now I knew that I wouldn’t expect the finish at 26 miles, it would be 50K. It
looked like I would be finishing within my goal time.

I came to an area where the snow was very deep, soft and churned up. I was
barely running, my form was so inefficient that I tried walking but that was
just too slow and depressing. I looked ahead and saw that Wayne was
walking…walking faster than I could run. Ugh. My knees and adductors were pain
filled. I looked at my watch and saw that the last mile took me 17 minutes.
Good grief.

I trudged along, trying to find a firm area on the trail where I could run
easily. It wasn’t happening. A bunch of snowmobiles flew past me.

Lisa and Lynette were at many of the road crossings. Lisa took many great photos
and I was able to get water from her as well. I told them how nice it was to
have them out there, checking in on us. Really they were there to check on
Wayne, I believe, but I wasn’t far behind Wayne so I was able to enjoy their
company too!

The surroundings were very pretty. Lots of pine covered with heavy snow, many
bridges over rivers. There was a section along the road but it wasn’t too long.
I really enjoyed the scenery. I didn’t see any deer but did see two timberwolf
on the lake earlier.

I ran solo most of the time, catching up with Wayne one in a while, then with a
skier for a bit, but mostly solo. At around mile 20 I turned on my iPod and
listened to music. I noticed that not only was this one of the few runs that I
felt pain, but it was also one that I wasn’t high on endorphins. Normally I’m
swinging my arms, laughing, smiling, yelling out Megadeth and cranking up the
trail. I think the slow pace put a limit on the endorphin rush!

I often though of Jason and Lynn who were competing the 75 mile race. This was
their first race of this type and I was very intrigued as to how it was going
for them.

I must say, this 50K has certainly sparked my interest in the 75 mile race next
year.

As I was running down a hill I caught a branch. Boom! I slid outstretched a
good 10 feet and ended up sprawled upon the ground. Thankfully it was deep here
so I didn’t skin my face up on any rocks. My foot was sore, I really banged it
up . I began to walk, checking my limbs, making sure everything was OK. I was
fine, just shook up.

Eventually the sun became weak. I ran up to two men in front of me and asked one
of them if he would take my headlamp out of my pack. He obliged and handed it to
me. I turned on my lights and was ready to grind out the last few miles to the
finish.

Ah, the water tower! I remembered at the start someone mentioned that when we
saw the water tower we would be nearing the end. He warned us to look out for a
sharp right turn to the finish. I saw the sign and was really happy to finish
this up.

Looking at my watch I was at 6:45, a few more minutes to go. I came up to two
people standing around, Tim the RD and Wayne. Gee, I was at the finish! Ah,
Amen! I was told I was third woman. I was so happy to be finished.

Wayne and I stumbled into the warming tent. I removed my pack and took off my
lights. Oh man, it felt so good to stretch out. Hot coffee was offered, a warm
heater, it really was nice. I removed my wet mittens, hat and neck gaitor and
just sat.

It was fun to talk with others about the race. RD Tim did an excellent job on
the 50K race and I’m sure the 75 and 150 were just as awesome. Putting these
three races together has to be a huge endeavor and it came off without a hitch.

Steve came along and after introductions we were off to the cabin. We made a quick stop at a beautiful Christmas light display so I could get a photo. I hobbled out of the truck for the shot. He and Troy had a fun day ice fishing, we were all exhausted and into bed by 8 PM!

Even though this race was only a 50K and I didn't have to pull anything it certainly served it's purpose for me. I wanted to really embrace winter this year. I have slowly changed mymind about winter and surprise myself by my reaction. I didn't hate my time spent running this race, didn't hate the cold, didn't wonder what
the hell I was doing. I knew exactly what I was doing. I was embracing winter, trying something new and learning so much about myself in
the process. I can run a race even if it isn't all about having fun, even when it is a lot of work and I am in pain. It's ok.

The next morning after we packed up and headed out we drove along the course, looking for John, Jason, Lynn, Daryl or John. We weren't able to locate them
along the route. It had been close to 24 hours so as it turns out some had already finished and some were out on the course, we just missed them.

I was so happy to hear that John S won the 75, Jason and Lynn finished their
firsts, John T and Daryl finished their 75. Get this: Chris Scotch ran and won
the 150 mile. 150 miles in 60 hours. Can you even fathom such a thing. It is an
amazing thing, what a body can do.

I must say, I am more intrigued than ever with the 75 mile option. I am really
thinking about it for next year. I think I could give it a try and maybe even finish it.

Thank you so much to RD Tim, to the volunteers and to the runners. You inspire me.

17th Annual Lake Harriet 50K Fat Ass CANCELLED

2010-12-11T14:01:00.004-06:00

Boo! Mother Nature has nixed the 50K fun run I had scheduled for tomorrow at Lake Harriet. It is so much fun! Approximately 7 loops around Harriet-up through the neighborhood, check my name on the list in the porch and do it again. So much fun!

I totally understand that with over a foot of fresh snow and -30F wind chills it had to be canceled. I'll be going solo instead.

Tuscobia is one week from today :)

We are in the midst of a good old fashioned snow storm.

This morning by 5 AM there was about 6" of snow in the driveway. It was a slow snowy drive to Maria State Park. As I figured, there wasn't ANY traffic other than snow plows. Slow and easy.

Of course the lot was empty when Topaz and I piled out of the car. He ran away like a banshee-racing me to the trail head. I had to get my snowshoes on in the dark, fumbling with my headlamp so I could strap them on.

The wind was whipping and the snow was flying. We headed off into the darkness. It kind of felt rather spooky, knowing there wasn't anyone else in the park. There were not any car tracks going into the park so unless someone was in one of the remote cabins there was nobody here but us.

I couldn't see Topaz in front of me, the snow was so heavy. All I could see was a white out in front of my lamp. Weird. Eerie weird. Cool. Way cool.

As we ran along I could hear the maples above me bending in the wind..and snapping branches..and pretty soon a branch fell in between Topaz and I. Oooh.

Daylight had to arrive soon. It seemed like at least an hour had passed. Sure enough, it was 7 AM but not a bit of daylight was approaching. The thick clouds and heavy snow was not letting any light in.

Not until 722 did I finally see a bit of light from the sky. I turned off my headlamp and watched the sun try to brighten the cloud cover. Still rather dark, but I could now see without lights.

Topaz was a flurry of activity. Chasing deer, squirrels, turkey and fox; the now fresh 8" of snow on the ground wasn't slowing him down. I was trudging. I was tired. I was out of my mind happy. SO beautiful, so peaceful, so thrilled to be out in the woods enjoying myself. There wasn't anything else I'd rather have been doing.

As I ventured out along a trail that I hadn't yet broke the snow was up past my knees, up to my thighs. This is along an open area where I normally see many deer feeding. They weren't feeding out in the open today. As the wind howled around me I realized that this was one hell of a storm. Pretty soon I heard thunder. Ah, thunder snow! Typically 1" plus of snow falls per hour when one hears thunder along with it. Amazing.

When thoughts of driving home surfaced I pushed them away. No sense in thinking about it now. Enjoy the run..

4 hours and 15 SLOW miles later we came back to the lot. My car was buried under the snow. What a sight. I helped Topaz to de-ice his legs and started the car. While it warmed I took off my snowshoes and uncovered my car. Wow, still snowing like crazy.

After a slow drive home I made it safe and sound. Troy was heading out to slide. I told him I'd quick change into dry clothes and meet him out there.

More trudging around, sliding down, climbing up, laughing on my back as I fell into the snow! What a blast.

Troy is now drinking hot cocoa, Topaz is sleeping next to the fireplace and I was going to head over to Gold's. I just called to make sure they were open and guess what? They are closing at 3 due to snow. Really?

Enjoy the snow! Go on out there, play in it, laugh in it, lay down and make a snow angel!

Topaz is Nine!

2010-12-11T11:33:00.005-06:00

(I wrote this on Thursday but didn't realize I didn't post it until now!)

For Topaz's 9th birthday (edited to add:) on Thursday a 9 mile snowshoe run was scheduled. The weather was perfect for a winter day. No wind, bright sunshine and a good amount of snow.

At 4:00 sharp we left the lot and as usual, nobody had been upon the trails since I broke them. I carried my headlamp and a few gels for the run. I knew it would be dark upon our finish. It becomes pretty dark in the woods just before 5:00, with a pre-dark at about 4:45 where I need to take out my lights. I have such horrible night vision, it is very difficult for me to see in the darkening woods.

It was pretty cool to begin our run in the bright beautiful sunshine, breaking more trail, feeling the warm sun upon my back. Pretty soon the sky began to turn a pink and purple color as the red ball began to set. The moon began to rise and before I knew it we were in darkness. I put on my headlamp and continued to break trail. Before I knew it we were in total darkness. I stopped to flick off my light, to look at the stars. They they were, obliterating the darkness of the sky. Beautiful.

2 hours later were were back at the car, ready to head home. A perfect birthday run for Topaz :)

Winter Running Tips

2010-12-05T10:06:00.005-06:00

I've received a lot of questions about winter running. Most of you know that I live in Minnesota; land of cold winters! Most of you also know that I normally struggle with winter. I complain about being cold, I complain about the decreased daylight, I complain about the depression that sets in and the 5-10 pound weight gain that normally comes with winter for me.

Over the past few years I have working very hard at changing my view of winter. Instead of huddling indoors and complaining I began to snowshoe run, then snowboard and now ski. I didn't really enjoy these activities at first, but with repetition and a whole mind-shift process, mentally and physically, I can say that I no longer hate winter. First time ever. Baby steps finally brought me to that goal.

Not once this winter have I complained of the cold weather, the snow, the winter, shortness of daylight; none of that. I haven't needed to. I have changed my thought process. Thank god.

When I first began running, 13 years ago, I only ran on my treadmill. My children were small and I stayed at home. My treadmill was set up in front of the TV in the living room at the time and that is where I did all of my running.

Eventually I began to run outdoors-when the temperature permitted it. I didn't run outdoors in the winter at all.

I hated winter. I hated the snow, the cold, the 'Minnesota Hunch', everything. And I thought about it and dreaded it and lived the hate every single day. Man, how sad and exhausting.

As time passed and I learned to love to run (another goal I wanted to work toward and completed with baby steps-it doesn't just happen on it's own), I decided I wanted to run during the winter and I wanted to run every day. Hmmm..what would get me out the door every day,even in the winter? You got it, Topaz!

I researched dog breeds and learned that the Border Collie must be exercised every day, an hour minimum, in order to live in a peaceful fashion. I learned that they were the smartest of dog breeds, loyal to their master, loved agility, running and were a great family dog. Sold.

I decided to try snowshoe running that winter so that I could eventually take a dog running winter trail with me. Over the years, a passion was created.

We purchased Topaz at 6 months old and I couldn't be happier with him. I purchased him in April and when the snow began to fly 8 months later I was apprehensive. I had to get this dog out each and every day. It was the promise I had made to myself.

I did it. Rain, snow, sleet or hail, hot sun, it didn't matter. Topaz needed his hour exercise. During those first few winters it rather sucked. I dreaded it quite a bit as the day went on and I would soon be home from work. I would cringe as I drove home, watching the wind bend the trees, the snow flying, the bitter cold temps. I'd walk in the door and the boys would yell "Topaz is excited for you to run!" Ugh. I'd bundle up, head to the trail head, snowshoe run for an hour and realize it wasn't so bad as I headed back home.

Fast forward a few years. Topaz will be 9 next week. I finally love, yes, love, to snowshoe run in the winter.

I've learned a few things that work for me and I will share them with you. Most importantly:

1) You will NEVER feel worse after your winter run. NEVER. You will always feel better! You may be cold and wet on your drive home (if you drive to your running location), but after a change of clothing you will feel awesome. Endorphins are a great thing. Not only that, but mentally and physically, you did something that you were going to dread, and it was OK, and you stuck with your plan. That is huge, emotionally. Good going, you!

2) Clothing: Learn to dress for the weather. This is so important. You don't have to be cold out there. Today the air temperature was 3F, windchill was -17F. I wasn't cold or wet. I felt the resistance of the wind, I heard the wind but I didn't feel the wind penetrate my clothing. I no longer become cold while running. You don't have to either. I actually became a bit warm snowshoe running. I unzipped my armpits on my outer jacket and zipped down my two tops.

3) Surfaces: Ice or snow require snowshoes if deep snow, trail shoes if ice. You can't be slipping and sliding, you may injure yourself. You need the correct shoe tread for the surface condition. Some people use screws or yak tracks. I never have.

When I first began to run outdoors I wrote the temperature and my clothing as well as how I felt every day into my MDRA log book. I still use MDRA log books, I think they are awesome, but I no longer need to monitor my clothing. I know what I need to wear.

Here is what I find works for me:

60F+ Singlet and shorts. I love the compression tanks for summer running but hate compression for winter running. For winter running compression makes me feel like a running sausage.

50-59F Short sleeve and shorts. Technical fabric all of the way. Don't wear cotton!

40-49F Longer sleeve, lightweight technical shirt, shorts.

30-39F Long sleeve, mid weight technical shirt, light tights or wind pants, I normally have to add light gloves at 30F with an ear band.

20-29F Long sleeve mid weight technical shirt, winter running jacket, heavier tights or pants, gloves, fleece hat, neck gator as the temp is closer to 20, gortex trail shoes as I am usually snowshoe running at this temp, snow shoe gator.

10-19F Long sleeve thick technical shirt, lightweight technical shirt, winter running jacket, heavier tights, winter 'over' pants (when closer to 10), gloves, wind mitten, fleece hat, neck gaiter, gortex trail shoes and shoe gaiters for snow shoe

0-9F Same as above but I add wool socks instead of microfiber which I wear otherwise and may have to add a full face mask dependent on wind.

Minus 15 to 1F Same as above and I add a vest for upper body warmth, vaseline on exposed face portions.

Minus 20 and below I'll add hand warmers to my gloves and socks and my snowboard goggles.

One of the Northwoods Snowshoe Marathons was held in the below 0 range and I was not at all cold. I stayed warm and dry because of these layering techniques. The only problem I had was that my goggles froze to the top of my fleece hat when I removed them from my face. They were iced to my hat and I had a hard time pulling them back to my face when necessary! Then I knew it was a cold day, buy hey, I won that Northwoods Snowshoe Marathon and kept my first place title alive another year.

I drive each day to the trailhead, about 25 minutes each way. On the way home my sweat gets cold, making me cold. I could change before I head home but I just don't take the time. I start the car, crank the heater, remove my neck gaiter, fleece hat, gloves and mittens. Sometimes I will call home and ask Troy to turn on the gas fireplace for me. As soon as I get home I change into warm fleece. I love Horny Toad Cashmoore fleece pants and tops. I wear them all of the time as well as Patagonia RI fleece. Yummy soft! A hot cup of tea and I'm all warmed up and comfortable.

My favorite running gear that I keep grabbing for the past few years is my Patagonia winter pants and jacket. Zipper pockets, polyester soft shell so there is no swoosh swoosh swoosh while running, soft interior fabric on collar, arm pit zippers, so warm and comfortable but real light. I wear this all of the time. As I wrote above, as it gets colder I add layers. 1/4 zipper shirts are the best! When I feel to warm I pull the zipper down, letting the cool air inside.

When the temps are cold enough for two layer of pants I like Hind Winter Ready tights. Heavy duty poly fabric with a bit of stretch. Perfect. When I first began to run in the winter I needed three bottom layers, but with these items two is fine.

I wear Inov-8 Gortex shoes from November to March, normally. The tread is good enough for trail or road without adding screws or yak-trax. I've never purchased the yak trax or any of those spikes you add to your shoe. I use the Inov-8s in my snowshoes as well.

One problem I do have is freezing water bottles. Because of this I normally run loop routes in the winter so that my car can house bottles of water out of the freezing temperatures. When very cold I wrap the bottles in warm towels from the dryer and place in a cooler into my car. This usually keeps them from freezing. It just isn't worth it to me, to carry a 24 oz water bottle at below 0 temps that is going to be an ice cube before I even need a drink.

You are all set for winter running! Really, give it a try, it doesn't have to be that horrible. If you really do hate winter, you can change that. Wouldn't it be awesome not to dread winter? It is, really! I feel so great by not hating winter. Really.

Friends are Gifts

2010-11-28T10:05:00.002-06:00

Yesterday The Pederson Benefit Run took place at Afton State Park. 'This Benefit Run was created to support our friends Colleen & Larry Pederson, who sustained a tremendous amount of damage to their home during the recent flood in Zumbro Falls, Minnesota. After the flood, many people who were able to do so, volunteered to help Colleen & Larry with cleaning up the mess & the damage left behind after the water receded. The work seemed endless, with many hours spent cleaning, tearing down walls, ceilings, pulling out the floor and the fireplace, before rebuilding could begin. Still many, especially those who were not able to be there in person, asked what more can we do? As trail runners we thought let’s do what we do best…Run! And the idea for the benefit run was born.

Over the years Larry and Colleen have become familiar faces in the Trail Running Community, dedicating countless hours of their time so that runners may enjoy the sport they love so much. Each year some of the fun that we get to experience on the trails because of them are The Fall Superior Races, Zumbro 100 & In Yan Teopa. Larry also founded the Upper Midwest Trail Runners Association'

The schedule of events slated were as follows: 1)Run either a 7 AM or 9 AM start, depending on mileage 2) Silent auction 3) Pot luck

What a great day!

I left home by 530, then stopping for gas, making my commute long enough to miss the 7 AM start. My plan was to run 6 hours, more of a time on feet than a total mileage run.

As I pulled into the lot I saw a group of 7:00 ers on their way out. A few stragglers made their way to the course start as I lubed up and added layers. My car said 6F so I put on a heavier shirt, knowing I'd be back in the lot after the first 25K I could change again if necessary.

I had consumed berries and cream at home, sucked back a VESPA enroute, grabbed Hammergel Espresso for my pockets, filled my handheld bottle with water and removed myself from the car.

Half way to Afton I wondered about the trail conditions. Were they snow covered, ice covered, should I have screws or snowshoes? It was too late. My Gortex Inov-8 winter shoes were probably fine.

As I began my run I was relieved that the trail only had about an inch of snow. Enough to make the run slower than usual but not a big deal. The tread on my shoes was enough to keep me upright. In the first mile I ran past Afton Ski Alps base hill and they were making snow. The snow was floating across the trail and here I walked as the snow was a good 4" deep. I was thankful I wasn't going to be running through that all day sans snowshoe!

I followed the trail and noticed a fat tire track from a bike and some yak track tracks amongst a few other tracks of runners somewhere in front of me. I turned to take a right up a steep hill and was surprised to see that the trail was closed due to erosion. Hmm..I trotted back onto the main trail and ran along. Pretty soon I noticed arrows pointing me to take the trail to the right. WOW, trail markings to mark the 50K course. How awesome was this! I noticed that the trail marker had a big railroad tie spike holding it upright. It had to be tough to drive that nail into the frozen ground-and the ground was rocky here. I said a thank you to the one who marked the trail.

Since I was running solo I was really paying close attention to the trail and made a point to look for these nifty arrows on the ground and each trail intersection. What a blessing.

About 4 miles into my run I came running down the hill and there was a big cooler of water at the first 50K aid station when the summer Afton Trail Race is held here. What a treat. My bottle was frozen up and the water was more ice chunk than water. I smacked my bottle on the table and filled it up with the warm water, gulping it down before it froze. Wonderful. Filled my bottle back up, said thank you to the water deliver-er and headed off.

I was so happy to be out running, to be enjoying this wonderful day. It was sunny, not much of a breeze, the day would warm to mid 20's. Perfect.

I kept marveling at the fact that here I was, running solo, and enjoying the winter run. I was comfortable in 2 pr of gloves, hat, neck gaiter, my Patagonia heavy pants and jacket. I like my pants and jacket so much for winter running. I'm always comfortable. I've had this set for 4 years and almost think I should buy another because as soon as I get a hole or tear and need another..Patagonia will have discontinued the items. I loved my Houdini jacket and lost it at a race..now I can't find another! The jacket they market as a replacement is not as light.

As I was saying, I was totally enjoying this run. I felt awesome, the sun was shining on my face, I felt as though I was in meditation.

As I came up near mile 9 I saw the bike I had been following leaning upon the bridge but couldn't tell who was near it. A water station was set up here so I cracked my bottle on the bench, emptied out the ice and refilled with water, sucked it back and refilled again. I looked up and there was Don Clark.

I should have figured it was him. He is Chief Course Marker and I did see his name as one of the entrants for Arrowhead 100 in the bike category. Here he was, out on the course, riding and marking. I thanked him and gave him a huge hug and stood there, yakking at him for a long time. Finally I pulled myself away from our conversation and continued my run, smiling all the way. So good to see and talk with Don. Pretty soon I hear something coming down the path. Don yells 'hey, you are running faster than I can ride this thing!' I ran with him biking along the trail for some time. What a treat.

A few miles prior to the finish of my first 25K I spotted a pair of runners ahead of me. I trotted on and came upon Tom and Carl. It was good to say hello. Tom and I began to run toward the Visitor Center. We had plenty to talk about as we rounded back into the parking lot. Tom was finished with his run, headed back to the Visitor Center and I headed to my car for a refill of VESPA, grabbed a few gels changed into a lighter shirt to wear under my jacket.

During my second 25K loop I didn't see a soul. I don't know if everybody ran 25K or less or if I was just missing everyone. It was warming up, I noticed my water was no longer freezing and my gels were no longer the consistency of frozen frosting! About 4 hours in I began to feel like I was urinating too often. I was paying close attention to how much I was drinking and then realized I hadn't taken any S-CAPS. I dug into my handheld pocket looking for some but they were not there. I couldn't help but think of my first 50K, also at Afton, where I bonked and blacked out, pretty much having Don carry me off the trail. That was 7 years ago!

I began to feel a bit loopy but nothing to fear. I ate two gels to see if that would put my mind at ease. It did. I only had two hours left to run and felt in good shape. Because I didn't stop to chat with anyone during this lap I ended up running it faster than the first.

Pretty soon I was back to the lot, then decided to walk through the picnic area for a cool down. I've noticed that walking before and after running seems to help recovery for me more than stretching does.

What a great run. I stopped at my car, collected a bag of warm clothes and headed to the Visitor Center. It was just full of people wanting to support and give to Larry and Colleen. Amazing. There was hot coffee, pop, tables of food. Tables of silent auction items and just a feeling of compassion in the air.

I quickly changed into dry clothes and began to visit. What a great group of people. Larry and Colleen didn't feel deserving of this treatment and that is because they are so humble and so giving of themselves. They couldn't get over the fact that we were there for them and we were all so happy to be able to help them out.

After a few hours of visiting I had to say my goodbyes to get on the road for home and evening plans.

Thanks to all who turned out yesterday. Together we can do anything!

Slip Sliding Away

2010-11-21T13:11:00.003-06:00

The roads and everything else today are absolutely trecherous! When driving home from church service last night a light mist was falling. I knew it meant trouble for driving out to the trail head today.

By 6 AM there was a thin layer of ice over everything. I drove very slowly to Lake Maria and not too suprisingly, didn't encounter many vehicles.

The gravel lot was even layered in ice. Topaz jetted across it, skidding out before he reached the dirt of the trail. I slid along the lot very slowly until I came to the trail. The clear ice sparkeled under the beam of my headlamp.

The trail wasn't in bad shape as most of it is under a heavy tree canopy. There were a few icy spots but all in all it was an excellent run although it was much 'noisier' than usual. The grass and leaves were covered in a fine thin ice, crinkling and crackling under my feet.

We spooked a flock (flock?) of turkeys in the middle of the trail. As they flew up into the trees shards of ice fell upon us. It was so cool!

After a few hours the mist turned into a heavier 'almost' rain, but was still freezing upon contact. As I navigated the open field the ice was apparent. I sort of skated through the meadow until I entered the forest where my traction was much better.

Topaz wouldn't slow down no matter what the surface; he skidded along the meadow even though I was telling him to slow down. I was afraid he'd damage a knee as he shimmied across the ice. Somehow he kept his balance.

After 4 hours of running we exited the woods to the barren lot where only my car was sitting, covered in a layer of ice. After chiseling the windows I slowly drove home..very slowly. MNDOT advised no driving for this morning and they weren't out sanding. Very slippery.

Once I arrived home and told Troy about the ice he couldn't wait to check it out. Troy and I, along with Topaz, headed out for a slide along the roads near our home. The ice didn't disappoint Troy, we played hockey and a what we named 'ice ball' as we slid up and down the street. Awesome fun!

We couldn't help but wish that this would have happened tomorrow, instead. A no school day, for sure.

The rest of the day will be spent preparing for Thanksgiving. Baking pecan pies, cornbread for my stuffing and some more Christmas cookies.

Embracing Winter

2010-11-20T11:35:00.003-06:00

After an unusually warm fall MN has finally taken the leap into winter. Don't get me wrong, I loved our fall. Temperatures in the 60's and 70's couldn't be beat. However, I am not dreading winter as I have in the past.

After years of dreading winter and complaining about the cold temperatures every day I began to change my perception of winter a few years ago. It's working!

I began to run outside during the frigid months and after I learned about wicking fabrics and laying to keep warm, I eventually enjoyed it. I began to snowshoe run which I now can't imagine not doing every day. Because I run mainly trail and have a dog who loves to run trail off leash, we snowshoe run every day during the winter months. It is awesome fun.

A few years ago I began to snowboard with the boys. I'm not very good, I spend most of the time out there on my butt, but it is fun to spend the day on the hill with the boys.

Last year I began downhill skiing. I do enjoy this more than snowboarding and I can ski along the boys as they snowboard. I'm not on my butt quite as often!

If you dread winter and just want to curl up on the couch in your PJ's you really ought to try going for a walk in the snow. You won't feel worse upon your return to the couch!

After work yesterday Topaz and I headed for the park. It was a beautiful sunny afternoon. The wind was whipping but I hardly felt it deep in the woods. As we ran the miles accrued and before I knew it darkness was falling. There was an incredible almost full moon rise, the sky was going to bright for a while longer.

Instead of stopping at the car and heading home I filled a bottle and we headed out for a few more hours. Oh, it was magnificent! The moon rose above the trees and set eerie shadows upon the trail. The landscape changed before my eyes. I had my headlamp but never switched it on. The moon was the only light we needed.

As I was bombing down a hill, laughing and smiling, I wiped out! I felt my foot catch upon a root and down I went! I let out a yelp and Topaz turned quickly, running to me so that he could cover my face with kisses. I'm fine, fine, Topaz. I stayed on my back for a moment, resting. Just a little fall! It was hilarious. I picked myself up and we trotted on, enjoying the magnificent moon under which we were running.

A few miles later I heard a ruckus to my left. I stopped and noticed that Topaz had his ears up and was listening as well. A few moments later 6 deer crossed our path, not more than 20 feet in front of me! So awesome. The moon cast enough light, even deep down in the woods, so that I could count out the deer and watch their white tails flashing through the trees and up the hill. I wished I had my camera with me!

We ran for another two hours until we came upon my car. Exhilarated, I called the run done.

I'm going to try winter camping this season..something new for me!

Get our there, enjoy the season!

Back to my Back to Backs

2010-11-07T11:34:00.005-06:00

That's a lot of Backs! I can feel it in my legs, too.

With the guys heading up north for the huge event, the Minnesota Opening Deer Hunt, I had lots of time on my hands.

First off, I entered the Tuscobia 50K, a race held on snowmobile trails in WI. The race is held December 18 so I need to get my running legs back into running shape.

This race has options of 50K, 75M and 150M. The 50K allows foot or snowshoe, dependent upon snow conditions I suppose and the 75M and 150M allow foot, ski or bike. For the 75M and 150M racers must pull a sled to carry stove, gear and food. This would be a great try out for Arrowhead 100 in February. Well, the 75M would.

As I stated, I decided to enter the 50K. What a wuss, hu? Maybe next year I'll try the 75M with Arrowhead on the brain. We'll see. Talk about walking out of my comfort zone as I don't care for the cold weather all that much. Nothing feels as good as getting out of the comfort zone and realizing it really wasn't worth all that fear and stress..

Yesterday Topaz and I headed out for a 20 mile run. Because he didn't run the 26 mile with me last Saturday I didn't want to pop him up to 30 without a 20 in. Have to think about his training, too! It was just a spectacular morning. Clear skies, 30F, really nice..except for the gun shots.

I wasn't running in Lake Maria State Park at this time last year so I wasn't sure how many hunted around the outside perimeter of the park. Quite a few, I now know, but I didn't see any hunters within the park..a smart thing. I didn't see any other humans on the trail yesterday, either, although I did see a few tents so there were some people camping out. I just didn't see them.

The run went very well. No pain, fatigue or anything else of concern. Just nature at its finest! It really is beautiful out there. Now that all of the leaves are down when I am on a higher peak I can see over across the hills and view all of the lakes, the farms out of the park, etc. Such a pretty area.

I strapped on Topaz's blaze orange hunting vest headed out. Immediately we heard shots out of the park. Topaz does not care for loud noises. He would never had made a hunting dog. It's a good thing he wasn't born a lab and was born a Border Collie or he would have been culled long ago. Upon hearing a gun shot he looks at me for reassurance that all is well and moves on slowly. At times he is practically running upon my toes. After a few 'it's ok Topaz, no worry' and a quick few pats he is OK..until the next shot.

There is only one outside boundary of the park that isn't surrounded by a road. Yesterday the deer stand that is situated right outside the boundary was empty. Today it wasn't.

We ran a 10 mile course, back to the car, drank water, ate a gel, Topaz had a biscuit and we were off for another 10. Good run!

Because Troy was not home bouncing on the tramp or playing football in the yard, Topaz rested the remainder of the day. He'll be 9 in December, I keep wondering when he will need to slow down. I think he has put on a few pounds during my hiatus from long distance racing.

Today with daylights saving time I slept an extra hour. Wow, I woke up after a 9 hour sleep. Yeah, I went to bed early last night, shortly after I arrived home from Church.

Today's run was 25 miles. We began before dark so I had my head lamp on and figured we'd put the orange on after a run of 7 miles or so, as dawn would approach. We made it back to the car as sun up arrived. Beautiful pink, purple and blue sun rise. Just spectacular! I'm so glad I didn't miss it.

As we headed back out the gunshots began to fire and Topaz began to cower. After a few more miles he wasn't quite as nervous. Poor thing. As we came up to the deer stand that was empty yesterday, was full of orange today. Even though I had on a blaze orange running top and hat and had Topaz in his running vest I still began to talk loudly so they could hear me. I don't imagine they were very happy but hey, Topaz has a white tail and I suppose it could be mistaken by some nut as a white tailed deer? Maybe I should tie an orange ribbon around it. We trotted on and I was quite pleased when I came by a few hours later and the stand was empty.

I've never seen so many deer running around in all directions. There was one instance where I crested a hill and there was a big buck, straddling the trail, with his head turned at me, looking me in the eye. I stopped immediately as did Topaz. Topaz was a good 10 feet in front of me, the deer about 25 feet in front of me. His eyes were huge they looked full of fear, crazed. He only stood staring at us for 5 seconds before he jumped off of the trail and ran full speed ahead into the woods, but I have never seen anything like it..and I come across deer during my runs every day. This was different. He didn't have a doe with him either and they usually do. As he ran off, one direction, turning to another, I said "oh, you should just lay down, then you will be safe" . He belongs in these woods. I hope he is still here after deer season.

Steve and the boys all hunt and yes, I'll be cooking up the venison they bring home and eating it, too. There is a 12 pointer that Tyler shot and it is hanging on the rec room wall. I am proud of them when they get their deer, but I just couldn't do it. I just couldn't shoot one. Well, if I was hungry and couldn't afford any food, then I would. I'll leave the hunting in this family to the guys. I'll continue to run with the deer and talk with them. Troy would say "at them" as he is certain to point out to me that they don't talk back, Mom.

As I ran along at mile 23 I was feeling a bit tired. As Topaz was laying in the ponds, lapping up the cool water, I stretched instead of jogging on.

25 miles was good today. I had a Vespa 45 minutes prior to running and a gel every 90 minutes or so. No pain, just felt tired toward the end. A good tired! A tired that I've missed.

Topaz is laying at my feet and will have a good rest today. No boys until later this evening. Me, I'm heading over to Pittsburgh Blue. I've been there half a dozen times and can see no reason not to go back a 7th!

Ultra Gnarly Bandit

2010-11-02T09:29:00.001-05:00

To finish up 2010 I’ll be running the Tuscobia 50K. I recall thinking about it last year but didn’t really want the 4 hour drive to deal with in winter driving conditions. Hopefully that isn’t a concern this year.

The race is December 18 and I am psyched. It’s been too long since I’ve run a 50K race. This race can be completed on foot or snowshoe. There is also a 75 Mile and 150 Mile option. For those distances the entrant can go on foot, ski or bike.

I’ve had a lot of fun planning out my racing schedule for the next year. I knew that I missed races, I just didn’t realize how much I missed the whole process. It has become a lifestyle over the past years and one that I now wish to continue.

A few years ago I became weary of the travel and the racing as I was doing so much of it. After a year off I am ready to get back at it. Of course I have the obsessive compulsive disorder going on so a bit of something never seems to be an option for me. It is all or nothing, fortunately or unfortunately, depending on how one looks at things. Some like to pick out one one-hundred (gasp!) miler or one fifty miler (gasp!) but I don’t have that in me.

For 2011 I’ve picked a goal that I have been thinking about for the past 2 years. I’m ready to train hard and see what I can do out there on the trail.

I’m going to run the UMTR Ultra Gnarly Bandit Series: 4 100 Mile Ultramarathons: Zumbro 100, Kettle Moraine 100, Lean Horse 100, Superior Sawtooth 100.

Two of the hundreds I haven’t yet tried. I haven’t run Zumbro 100, which is only two years old. Larry Pederson, director of the Superior Sawtooth, 50 mile and Marathon, directs this as well.

Training for a spring 100 is always a challenge. There is snow and ice on the trails in Minnesota well into March. I normally have to run the Minneapolis Lakes area for a large portion of my training just to get the miles in. Snowshoeing on trail is great for my daily mileage but the long stuff takes forever!

Kathy has scheduled 4- 20 mile training runs, as she prepares for the Honolulu Marathon,around Twin Cities that I am going to tag along for. Most of the runs will be on trails near the Edina/Eden Prairie or Minneapolis Lakes area.

I’m going to put Psyco Wyco 50K on my schedule so that I can get a 50K in February. February 12 I believe. I have entered this race twice in the past and have never been able to run it. One time Tyler had an emergency appendectomy and the other time a pool tournament got in the way.

This 50K will have me ready for a 50 Mile in March. I really don’t like 50 mile training runs, solo, and would prefer a race. The only race I see is Land Between the Lakes 50 Mile in Kentucky. I believe it falls during our spring break, that may be a problem as I and Troy like to go somewhere warm. Kentucky won’t cut it! Either the race or a solo run, we will see. Whatever I do, it will have me ready for Zumbro 100.

After Zumbro spring will be on the way. Training on trails for Superior 50K and then Kettle Moraine 100. I haven’t run Kettle in the past and am looking forward to it. I normally run FANS 24 Hour this weekend as our last day of school normally falls on this Friday and I am unable to travel. This year our last day of school is on Thursday so I will be able to travel Friday to Wisconsin and I don’t have a son graduating again!

Afton 50K and Voyageur 50 Mile in July always prepare me well for a late summer 100 mile race. No surprises. I’ve run V 8 times in the past and it truly is a small town friendly race and one of my favorites.

Lean Horse 100 in South Dakota will be another fun adventure I am sure. I love the heat and enjoy the course which allows almost constant running. My 100 mile PR was run here of 22:36 last year. I am ready to go back!

The most difficult portion of this plan is the next step. After Lean Horse I will have only 11 days of recovery before the most difficult of the 4 races, Superior Sawtooth. I’ve finished this race at 35 and 33 hours. The first finish I ran totally tapered. The second finish was coming off 100K at Leadville. This time I will be trying to recover in a very speedy fashion.

I’ll probably round out the season with Twin Cities Marathon and the Wild Duluth.

That is the race schedule I am planning for the 2011 season. I’m sure looking forward to it!

Ready. Set. Go!

Monster Dash Half Marathon (Make mine a Double)

2010-10-31T10:13:00.004-05:00

There couldn't have been more perfect weather than what was given yesterday by Mother Nature for the Monster Dash Half Marathon. Beautiful! We have had the best fall season in Minnesota ever. 80s, 70s, 60s and now 50s. It just can't be beat.

Yesterday was sunny and crisp, as it should be on October 30. Low 40s to begin the race and low 50 when I was done. Perfect. OK, so its not 80, but it is fall in MN.

It was cool to be back at Lake Nokomis. I have run FANS 24 Hour Run here for the past 8 years. It was neat to be back and 'only' running a marathon. I would be home in the same day that I began. What a concept.

I arrived to Lake Nokomis an hour before the start. I didn't realize that the 10 miles and 1/2 marathoners had different starting places so of course I picked the wrong start. It wasn't until I realized that my bib number wasn't the same color as the other people around me that it dawned on me. Oops. I needed to cross Cedar Avenue and begin over there. As I was walking toward the start I noticed the port a potties. The lines were really long. I figured I might as well hang out in a line and use the biffy until the start. Did I say the line was long? It took me until 2 minutes to start time to finally get into the biffy and the gun went off while I was peeing. No worry. Chip time. Didn't matter where I lined up.

I shuffled off to the start in the mass of people. Holy crap. Later to find out there were 9000 people on the course. That's nuts! This is a 10 miler and half marathon and that many people? Wow, this race has really caught on!

I was glad I wore shorts and a long sleeved top. I began to warm up quickly. I wore a belt around my waist so that I could carry my medal back to the start. I decided that instead of taking the shuttle bus from Harriet - the finish - back to Nokomis .. I would run, making a double Monster and getting in 26 miles. I hadn't run 26 in a while so wasn't sure how that idea would pan out..

The costumes were great! Some were very unique. I saw a man and woman running together, each with a huge single breast upon their back. The breast cancer awareness ribbon was in plain sight. Each had a big round breast complete with nipple. Amazing! It wasn't done in bad taste-they made it clear this was breast cancer awareness - not 'look, I'm a tit running down the road' . There is a difference. Really.

I saw a yellow and red person ahead of me. I truly figured they were ketchup and mustard. Then a child from the side of the road yelled out "oh, look at the crayons" guess I was wrong.

Many "Where's Waldo?" were seen, a few Tinkerbell's, Hulk's, a sexy black cat. Fun stuff!

I wore my Garmin 310XT. It was fun to check in with my pace every so often. I was running 9 or less minute miles for the most part. I always felt great, never out of breath or in any sort of pain. I was a bit surprised at how well I felt.

We ran around Nokomis, down Minnehaha Parkway, around Harriet to Calhoun and back to Harriet to finish. All the best parts of the Twin Cities Marathon. There were lots of spectators. I think we were a sort of Halloween Parade for many of the children. I heard on child yell out "What is that big green guy?" I looked around and there was Gumby! Wrong generation!

Many of the leaves were still on the trees down Minnehaha. I couldn't believe it! Beautiful yellow and red, even after the incredibly high winds earlier in the week. Just a beautiful course.

As I rounded around Calhoun I realized I could PR at half marathon distance. I could break two hours if I paid attention. I picked up the speed 845 to 830, 815 picked off the distance. Pretty soon we were back to Harriet and the finish line: 1:56:48. Whoot!

Crossed the finish line, collected my real cool Halloween medal, grabbed some water and headed off back to Nokomis. I felt like I was running slower but my Garmin told me I was keeping my previous pace.A few times I thought I may have been turned around but I had a trusty course map in my waist pack. Before I knew it I was back to my car in 1:58:45.

I was so happy! So thankful to be running again, so thankful for the beautiful day. I stretched and found a perfectly sunny grassy spot. Sat down and smiled to myself. Livin' The Dream.

I'm getting my racing legs back! Next race isn't until February 12 Psyco Wyco 50K. Edited to state: my next race is Tuscobia 50K December 19. Woot! I'd like to find a 50K before then. We'll see.

Happy Halloween!

VESPA

2010-10-26T11:24:00.002-05:00

If you are an ultrarunner you have no doubt viewed the VESPA advertisement in UltraRunning and/or witnessed other runners using VESPA at races.

I first noticed VESPA two years ago as the caption FAT IS YOUR FUEL caught my eye. I read the advertisement and then thought I’d do a bit of research at a later time.

During the past few months I’ve taken an in depth look at VESPA. I was first intrigued because I learned that VESPA works very well when following a paleo diet. I have been eating a paleo for athletes type diet for quiet some time.

Following are the two statements that caught my eye and caused me to look into the product more thoroughly.

“The key to sustaining athletic performance lies in optimizing the body’s ability to metabolize fat.‘

‘VESPA’s key ingredient is an all natural amino acid complex derived from the Asian Madarin wasp and works by shifting the muscles to metabolize a higher level of fat during physical activity thus stabilizing and conserving glycogen.’

At first glance I incorrectly thought that VESPA was a source of energy. It is not. It is not a fuel or an electrolyte. It works by optimizing your muscles’ ability to derive its energy from a readily available source: fat. One still needs to ingest energy and electrolytes when running long distance.

During the past few weeks I have had conversations with other athletes using VESPA as well as many conversations with Peter at VESPA.

There seems to be a huge synergy between VESPA and the OFM diet /training approach. OFM = Optimized Fat Metabolism. The more I read of Phil Maffetone the more I see this. As a ‘fat phobic’ it was difficult for me at first but I am seeing the light.

Peter has walked me through the beginning process and will be guiding me as I get further into my training program.

Because I don’t take part in the high carbohydrate fueling regimen that most athletes do I am not having difficulty transitioning to a solid paleo/primal nutritional program. On hard workout days I’m adding in fattier cuts of meat and a few additional egg yolks post run. I made sure to add fish oil with each meal. I begin hard days with cream and berries.

VESPA allows a jump start to the fat metabolism and since I am not in a heavy training cycle the required energy is not putting a high demand on my body. I’m in a building phase right now; a perfect time to transition to VESPA and a solid paleo program allowing optimized fat metabolism.

By eating in a paleo manner the basal blood insulin levels will go way down and insulin sensitivity way up. This has the effect of stabilizing blood sugar. For races and race training I would consume some carbs/sugars back into the diet so that glycogen stores are topped off but not so that they will cause a spike and a large insulin response such as digesting with fat/protein.

After transitioning the energy levels are much more even. By burning a higher percentage of fat recovery is quicker, with less soreness and muscle catabolism. This allows me to train harder.

My training, racing and nutrition pieces are coming together for 2011. Ready. Set. Go!

Javelina Jundred

2010-10-24T16:44:00.004-05:00

Here's a fun little You Tube clip of Javelina Jundred 2009. I ran both the 2009 and 2008 race. An absolute party on the trail.

2010 race took place this weekend. I really missed being there.

Here's a taste of what you will find at a Javelina 100. See why I love it so? Enjoy!

Pederson Benefit Run

2010-10-22T12:59:00.002-05:00

Please note the link on the sidebar for the Benefit Run for Larry and Colleen Pederson. Larry and Colleen sustained major flood damage to their home last month. Larry and Colleen give and give of themselves to the running community. They direct the Superior Fall Races, Larry began the Upper Midwest Trail Running Club, the list of what these two do just goes on and on.

Thank you for helping Larry and Colleen.

Cornfuezzelled

2010-10-22T12:47:00.002-05:00

I have been running at Lake Maria State Park for the past 5 months or so. I thought I knew the park pretty well, but ah, yeah, I guess not.

Even though there are standing wooden signs all over the park with maps there are some areas of deer trail that are harder to navigate. At least for me.

With the long weekend, MEA-gotta love working for the public school system, I slept in and then thought Topaz and I would head out for a 10 mile run through the state park.

Cold this morning! 27F at 7 AM meant the first run in long pants of the season. Boo. Although the high for today is 72, this morning was cool.

I pulled into the lot, empty as usual, and began our run. Beautiful morning! Trumpeter swan, deer, fox, all of the usual animal sightings.

Oh, get this. I purchased (another) Garmin 310 XT (will post about that later) and learned last week that my 5 mile water stop is really 3.5 miles! Egads!

So we are running about, enjoying the beautiful scenery, the sunrise, mother nature at her finest when we come to back to the lot and are only at 8 miles when I would have said pre Garmin we were at 10. Back out on a different path only to end up..confused..lost? Yeah, I guess so. Around the lake, down another path, nothing is looking familiar..another lake..a campsite..a cabin..wow, a whole new section of the park that I didn't know existed!

Another 5 miles before I found the path back to the car. Amazing how turned around I became..but now I have a perfect trail to bring Mom and Dad down when they are here next week. I can show them the swans, the camper cabins..there is even running water along the way. I grabbed the state park trail map before leaving. I might glance at it before I head out for a long one on Sunday :)

In The BLOGLIGHT: Heidi

2010-10-12T09:56:00.002-05:00

I have never had an interview or highlighed on of my clients here before. I want to tell you about Heidi. I'm so proud of her!

Heidi was a member of my first Beginning Women’s Running Class which met in 2008. Our goal was to run the Granite City 5K at the end of 8 weeks. Heidi was non runner. By the end the class Heidi ran the 5K in fine form and didn’t stop there.

I offered an Intermediate Run Class that focused on building strength and speed with hill work and track repeats. Heidi then participated in this class and became stronger and faster.

Soon Heidi was setting her sights on races of longer distance. 8Ks, 10Ks and then half – marathons became the norm. Heidi was interested in my online coaching service and soon became a client with the 2010 Twin Cities Marathon as her goal. I was so excited to train Heidi to the finish of her first marathon!

We began 5 months out. Within this 5 month period Heidi trained and ran as part of the Ragnar Relay. This was a great experience and an awesome run for Heidi. She worked hard during the 5 month period as she trained for the marathon.

Heidi states her s goals for the marathon were as follows:

“1. Finish the marathon in under 6 hours, so that I am not picked up by the bus. I did it!! I finished in 5:15. Could I have run faster? Sure, but it wasn't about the time...this was about the experience and it was such a beautiful day and it was fun to walk and talk with Katie. We felt fabulous running the final .2! I just kept saying to myself...this is real....I am really running a marathon!! I LOVED the feeling of accomplishment!

2. Finish with a smile, feeling good and wanting to run another marathon: I did it!! I felt really good at the end and will be running Grandma's in June. I never hit the wall - which I attribute to Julie and her training plan for me!”

I love that! Heidi finished Twin Cities Marathon, never hit the wall and is excited to run Grandmas Marathon!

Here is what Heidi writes about her race day:

“I was really nervous on Saturday and I made the mistake of not eating enough. This taught me a lesson. I had no reason to be nervous, because you had once again trained me well!! Twin Cities is a really well run race from packet pick-up to drop bag at the Metrodome to picking the bag back up a the finish - great volunteers and so many people cheering:-) What an exciting environment to run in! A lot of people, but it really didn't bother me....I was not worried about my time, I just wanted to enjoy:-) I loved running through downtown and how everyone would cheer underneath the bridges....I also loved running down the middle of the road and not having to worry about cars!! :-)

Beautiful morning:-) Cool with the smell of fall. Unfortunately early on I started to deal with feeling sick, which was an entirely new experience for me! :-( I just kept going and broke the race into smaller sections.....one water stop at a time. I had water and powerade at every stop and started eating the jelly beans early on, I finally started to feel better towards the end. People also handed out fruit, which I took and that helped. I didn't train 5 months to not finish!! I tried to focus on all of the volunteers and people cheering and the beautiful fall day. I love the mental game of running! I actually found the hills to be a nice diversion. About mile 22 I met Katie and we mainly walked the next 4 miles....and I really liked walking. It was a change and it gave me a chance to fully take in the race environment. I loved running down to the finish line at the state capitol with my new "best" running friend, Katie from WI.

I am so proud of Heidi. Enjoying the full race, smiling, that is what a first marathon is all about. Taking it all in, focusing on the surroundings, the smells, the feel of your first marathon. You only get one first! I say you should totally enjoy it ☺

Heidi closes with “what stands out most to me is the 5 months of training leading up to the marathon. How good it felt mentally to be out on the course and well trained! My time spent running has been such a blessing....time for myself, time with friends, time to enjoy nature, time to challenge myself physically and mentally....what a great journey!
Know that you are fabulous and I am thankful every day that I am out on the trail because of the email you sent spring of '08 to any women interested in giving running a try:-) I went outside my comfort zone and look at me now:-)”

Thank you Heidi. I’m just so thrilled that I was able to show you how wonderful running can be. It brings me tears of joy to know that you are out there, loving the run. Loving the challenge, loving the progress, loving nature. That’s it. Feeling the moment, living in the moment, feeling the joy, Heidi, feeling the joy…

Run On!

Back In the Saddle

2010-10-10T16:06:00.003-05:00

I've enjoyed my time at home, my break from running long distance. I don't know that I was 'burnt out' on running ultras, but I did want to spend a lot of time at home this summer. Maybe if I hadn't been burnt out I wouldn't have felt it necessary to stay home whenever the boys were home. Because it was Tyler's last summer at home I just didn't want to miss a weekend of it!

After being away from races for 9 months, without any specificity of workouts of the running nature and away from long distance .. well, I'm ready to get back at it.

This past month I've been thinking about what I want to do for the 2011 year. I went back and forth but now I have a rough outline. I have outcomes listed, goal races and the specific training necessary to get me to where I want to go down on paper.

The adrenaline is pumping.

I love to create an goal, a desirable outcome to that goal and then to begin creating the workouts that will allow me to attain that goal. I've been missing this lately.

I have my races, workouts and goals outlined from today to October 2011.

Measured progress, specificity of workouts, results .. and FUN! All of this because yes, it is FUN and if it wasn't fun, I wouldn't be doing it.

Ready. Set. Go!

Team Ortho Monster Dash Half Marathon

2010-10-05T09:09:00.004-05:00

I have been having race withdrawals! It is no wonder as I haven’t raced since The Securian Half Marathon in January! That’s crazy. I haven’t gone this long without racing since I began to run 12 years ago. I have been running nice mileage, however. Just running it with Topaz instead of racing and traveling.

I loved the Team Ortho Polar Dash race. The organization, the bling, the atmosphere was just awesome. As I was looking for an October race today and saw the Team Ortho Monster Dash I knew I was going to enter this one.

Half-Marathon is a nice morning run distance. The race takes place around the prettiest areas of Minneapolis to run-the lakes and parkways. I’m looking forward to it! I have to be back home for the afternoon so I'll have plenty of time to run, visit and head on home.

Saturday, October 30; the day promises to be sunny, crisp, beautiful ☺

Buon Giorno!

2010-10-02T12:23:00.002-05:00

I had my first Italian language class on Thursday evening. I have a lot to learn:)

My teacher is a professor at the Univerity of Minnesota. She hold the class at a school in Eden Prairie. There are not many students in our class but ALL of them have traveled to Italy more than once. Except me.

I am planning on go to Italy with the Umbrian Table from Broders-the marvelous Italian restaurant in South Minneapolis-in October or November of 2011. They have two tours - one in October and one in November. Many of the participants are repeats and speak very highly of the tour. There is a dinner 'meet and greet' that I will attend soon.

Troy has taken a great interest in my Italian worksheets and books. He is taking Spanish in 9th grade and the languages are similar. He is tutoring me!

On another note, this morning Topaz and I headed out to Lake Maria State Park. I couldn't imagine why there were a zillion vehicles folowing me into the park. Then I noticed the TimberRun sign. Oh no. There was a 5K race taking place.

I asked the course marshall what route they were taking - learned they were on the Bjorkland trail. Topaz and I just made sure we stayed off that trail and meandered through on our own. It was an absolutely perfect morning. Sunny, cool at 38F, brilliant foliage. A dream come true morning!

Troy and I are heading out for a hike, then I'm off to Broders and then heading to the NPC NorthStar to specate.

I'm kind of moving in the direction of competing in the April 2 Gopher State. We'll see...

Arrivederci a tutti!

A Written Apology..

2010-09-29T16:17:00.003-05:00

Whoa! Over 5 weeks since I've posted. Blogger, I am so not into you. So sorry.

When I receive my weekly email from the sitecounter website and see that I still have 100s of readers checking in each day I tell myself to make sure I update soon, and alas, another week passes without an update.

Well, the NPC NorthStar is this Saturday and due to personal situations that have occurred I will not be competing in the contest. I hope to spectate at least the finals, I will not be able to make the pre judging.

For the most part I am OK with this outcome. I learned so much about building muscle, about myself and I met so many wonderful people. This endeavor took me in a whole new direction and that was very cool. I enjoyed the whole summer at home without any weekends away spent racing. I was very laid back and totally relaxed. Running only an hour or two a day was totally for stress relief and to immerse myself in the great outdoors. A trip to the gym for an hour five times a week was nothing. It was a good break.

I thought that time off racing may equal fat gain. As a weight fighter this concerned me. As it turned out, by training for the contest, I didn't gain fat. I gained lean mass and lost fat. I ate every three hours by the clock.

All positive outcomes to this experience.

However, once my suit arrived, I realized I would have liked to compete. I realized I would have liked to take this full circle, to the completion..to the contest.

There is a contest in Rockford Illinois in 7 weeks. I originally didn't want to do this one as a first contest because I wanted to compete at home. No travel stress, less expensive, etc. I'm not sure how I feel now. If I don't go to Rockford, then what..am I willing do continue this until a local show in the spring? Ugh. That seems like forever.

I don't like not having any goals. I like to have a concrete reason for working out other than for good health. I like to have a race, a contest, a date to be working toward. That's just my personality and my habit I suppose. I've been setting goals for 10 years and I like it. For so many years I didn't set any goals, now I'm rather obsessive with the process.

Last year I was looking at this contest to wrap up the BBing goal and then progress back into ultra running. I had my mind wrapped around the Ultra Gnarly Bandit series for 2011 after I put the BB to bed, which it really is, other than the contest..decisions..decisions..

Update

2010-08-18T08:33:00.001-05:00

Hello Readers! I thought I’d post an update as it has been a few weeks. Without race reports and such I just don’t have that much to blog about.

What’s new? Well, summer vacation has come and gone! I went back to work on Monday. Every year the summer goes by more quickly. You know how that is. Time does fly by. I no longer wish for Friday as Friday is here before I know it.

I don’t mind being back at work at all. Monday was actually a fun day as many of the students came in to pay their activity fees and I was able to catch up with them. Students won’t be back until after Labor Day so I have a few weeks to get ready.

My Dear Tyler moved out at the end of July. Oh, talk about a heartbreak! As I was an emotional wreck all summer knowing the move was near but I was sure to tell Tyler that this is all working out perfectly. We want him to go to college, to be successful, to work, to be independent. That is just what he is doing; however, it is a change and I have difficulty with changes. I realized that I NEED to be NEEDED! I didn’t raise needy boys but being needed is something that fulfills me. Something I can work on. Tyler is only 38 miles away, hello! I see him every week at least once or more and it is all working out perfectly. No More Tears as Ozzy would say..

On the bodybuilding endeavor..I’m 7 weeks out to the NPC Northstar. EEK! Workouts are going great. I’m lifting roughly an hour, 5 days a week. Running 5 miles a day in the AM and about 20 minutes of hills/sprints in the PM after I lift. My building phase is over, I have built some quality muscle and now the fat removal has begun! My body looks as if it belongs to two different people. My upper body is lean and my lower body is not! I’ve always held most of my fat in my butt/thighs and that certainly isn’t changing.

I don’t know if I can get the lower body lean in 7 weeks but I will try. I am doing my best and that is all that I can ask of myself. It’s difficult to know how much cardio to complete as my body is completely accustomed to running and I don’t know how much fat that is burning. My body is also used to eating low calories and performing well. Most BBrs are able to use cardio to burn the fat away as it is a new shock to the body. Mine, not so much.

I am posing each day, working on the mandatory poses. I haven’t yet perfected which music I am going to use. Probably Metallica, music only, I don’t think I want any words. Julia was very happy with my posing last Saturday. I have finally perfected the lat poses, which were my worse poses. I’ll be adding auxiliary poses soon to create my night routine.

My suits are ordered. A plain black lycra for prejudging and a glitzy rhinestone covered one for evening. Fun!

Now that I am back to work my schedule has changed. Instead of running with Topaz on the trail each morning I’m running with him out on trail near home in the dark before work or getting on the treadmill for HIIT. After work I head home, pick up Troy, bring him back to school for football practice. Practice is 4 hours so I have plenty of time to head over to the gym to get my lift on, back home for another run session. This session either consists of hills/sprints or Topaz run. Home again for plenty of time to get dinner ready and head back into town to pick up Troy. It works! I am able to plan plenty of time to get everything in. My energy level is high.

My nutrition changes a bit every week. I make sure I am drinking 1.5-2 gallons of water each day. I eat every 3 hours, a protein and vegetable. Usually a ton of greens, cucumber, tomato, green pepper and chicken breast with olive oil and vinegar as my garden is at full peak now. Lots of fresh veggies! A few days a week I have oats, sweet potato or brown rice. I drink 1 or 2 protein shakes a day post workout and usually right before bed to get those last protein grams in for the days total.

That’s about it. Thanks for the emails/comments wondering where I am. I am here and all is going well!

Lake Maria Trail Run

2010-08-01T15:29:00.006-05:00

This morning Topaz and I headed off for Lake Maria State Park, just out of Monticello. I really enjoy running here. There aren't any people, there is an abundance of wildlife, plenty of water for Topaz to lay in and drink from. It's just a great place for a run.

The main trails are dirt, some crushed rock, no roots to speak of. It is not your Superior Hiking Trail, sad, but true. There is only one! Speaking of which, I will be heading up there next weekend for a run and I can't wait. I haven't been up on the SHT yet this summer.

Most of the grade here is rolling hills, lots of thick forests of maple and oak, some open areas. There are secondary trails that are grass-more like the deer trails at Afton State Park. I tend to become lost when I run upon those! I'll navigate them in the winter when I have on my snowshoes and can always come back the way I came :)

There are huge signs along the main trail that I can actually understand. I love that!

Today we spotted 6 deer, two of which were small fawn, three bald eagles, 1 fox and a wolf. Oh, and a huge group of turkeys..they flew up into the air as we rounded a corner, scaring the heck out of us. I screamed and Topaz cowered. It reminded me of the bird in the tree along the SHT, Beta Run, where I hit behind Pierre's leg!

Good times.

Valleyfair Fun

2010-07-25T21:43:00.006-05:00

Each year we made a trip out to Valleyfair in Shakopee. Valleyfair is a huge amusement park with an awesome water park. I'm all about the water park. Today myself, Tyler, Troy, Amanda and Ryan headed out for a day of fun. Steve opted out, he has never really enjoyed Valleyfair. He and Topaz mowed the lawn, cleaned the pool, he even text me a photo of Topaz chilling. I'll have to post it!

We began with the waterpark. Bodyslides, lazy river, crushing rapids, wave pool..nothing but fun. I love it..and to spend a full day with the boys, well, that just can't be beat.

Being 10 weeks out from the NPC Northstar meant that I would be traveling with the every present cooler. Eggs and oats, check, protein shake, check, chicken breast salad, check, green beans, check..two gallons of water. Got it!

I went back to the car for frequent feedings and never felt like I was missing out. Nope, didn't need the Dipping Dots, the Chunky Monkey, the Pronto Pups or the Cheese Curds. No thank you!

We had an awesome day. Looking forward to our next visit!

Fun with the Son (s)

2010-07-16T15:25:00.004-05:00

Troy and I were pretty excited when Tyler asked if we wanted to join him and his friends at the Quarry Park in St. Cloud today. It is 95F, we love water, YES!

I couldn't believe that he and his friends would want his mother and younger brother along for the fun. They are the nicest friends. "We like you Julie and Troy; you talk to us! You are cool". Alrighty then. We are IN!

We left this morning and I wasn't sure what to expect. The Quarry Park is out of St Cloud a few miles, park the car and get out and walk about 1/2 mile. We lugged out floaties from the pool, beach towels and cooler of water and Diet Coke.

What a blast! We had a group of 15. Jumping off of the cliffs, floating around, just having a blast. I even jumped off of the cliffs!

Next up: Troy's baseball tournament tonight. Hot nice night for a baseball game :)

She Lives!

2010-07-14T15:30:00.007-05:00

My goodness, it has been a while hasn't it Dear Blogger. Sorry for the neglect. Busy summer. Vacation, time at the lake, Tyler's graduation party this last Sunday, lots of baseball, lifting with purpose.

Not a whole lot of running! I am focusing on building muscle and can not do ultrarunning and bodybuilding at the same time. I tried that last year and both suffered.

Topaz and I continue to run 3-5 miles each morning and it seems to be working for us. We love Maria State Park. I'm out there almost every day running the wooded trails. Trails that are covered with annoying deer flies right now. I am spraying the horse spray on both of us. It works :)

Tyler's grad party was an absolute blast. It went off without a hitch. I don't think there is one thing I would change if I were to do it over. The day was sunny, about 75F, a nice breeze. Lots of family and friends. Good food! I was sad to see it end. It's funny. People tell me 'I be you are glad that is over' I'm like 'no, I'm not. I enjoyed it so much, it was so much fun, I want to do it again!'. What is this 'glad to be over business?'

Tyler will be moving off to college in a few weeks. I am SO not ready. Although this is just what we want of our children: to become independent, to go off to college, to work, to succeed; it is still so very difficult for me. I could have him home until I don't know when..

I keep forgetting that he already has one year of college under his belt as a full time PSEO student during his high school senior year and that he will be 19 in December. I still think of him as my little boy. He's a young MAN. Where does time go?

I've stayed home this summer; I've gone to the lake when they boys have, I've gone to the baseball tournaments, I haven't raced..I won't be going up to the BETA V weekend as Troy has his final baseball tournament of the season. I don't want to miss it! I won't miss it.

After my Leanness Lifestyle get away to Rockford the seed relating to bodybuilding was nurtured and then grew. I've decided to compete in the NPC NorthStar Bodybuilding Show on October 2. I began training with Julia Korfhage 6 weeks ago and really enjoy her. Every Saturday we meet for posing, nutritional (see Coach Dave..not DIET!) updates, photos. The nutrition program is Leanness Lifestyle in a nutshell: lean protein, veggies, clean carbs. Good stuff! I'm 12 weeks out now so I'll be eating less soon.

Workouts are awesome. I trained with Julia every day for a week to learn proper form and technique. Hold, squeeze, stretch..incredible!

I'm loving it!

Here's a 14 weeks out photo. I'll post an 11 week out photo after our session on Saturday.

Summer Starts Now

2010-06-15T19:06:00.002-05:00

Yes. Another school year is in the history books. My summer vacation began today. EIGHT WEEKS OFF. Amazing, isn't it? EIGHT WEEKS!

I so love summer vacation. I love the almost no scheduleness, the almost always relaxedness, the almost always laidbackedness. Swimming, running, lifting, hanging out with my family. It rocks.

Today was spent playing croquet with the Tyler and Troy-between the rain drops. While we were playing Topaz began to dig frantically at the grass. He dug up a gopher! Good pup, but gross. It was half dead by the time I noticed Topaz jumping around and pecking at it. Tyler finished it off with his croquet club. Eek.

Tonight after dinner we played with Steve. He beat us all!

Today was spent riding bike into town with Troy. We had a nice 12 mile ride! Pretty good for Troy. He figured since he didn't have baseball today he would have enough energy to bike. I smiled all of the way there and back.

I have a few goals that I will work toward this summer. I'm getting my feet wet in new and exciting challenges.

Today was spent just hanging out, having fun, spending time together. That is what this summer will be all about. I'll cherish each day.

Wistful Weekend

2010-06-08T07:54:00.004-05:00

The weekend just passed me by in a blur. This is the first weekend in eight years that I haven’t participated in the FANS 24 Hour Run. I hadn’t even looked up any entrant information and I haven’t yet looked up the results. I was consumed with something else: Tyler’s graduation from high school.

Although I have known since Tyler’s birth that the day of commencement is going to arrive, I didn’t know that it would be so difficult for me. It wasn’t the act of the commencement that was difficult; it is everything that the commencement signifies and the emotions that go along with the change. I've never done well with change.

I chose to leave my job once the boys arrived to stay at home until they were of school age, then once again return to the the fast paced, goal oriented, progressive company I worked with in the high rise luxury office building to the slow paced, stark public school district so that I could be more involved with my boys day to day lives. It’s a change I am still glad that I chose to take. I’ll never have this time back.

I have been able to ride with the boys to school each day, to work their school hours, to have their time off. It’s been fabulous.

Tyler participated in full time PSEO at Saint Cloud State University as a high school senior this year so I didn’t see him in the office day to day. I missed his lunch time visits to the office very much but was still able to catch up with all of his friends as they visited quite (maybe too much some would say) frequently.

As graduation loomed last week my emotions were riding a roller coaster. So proud of him for making the Dean’s list, so proud of his accomplishments-so proud of the way he carries himself as a person. He’s a respectful, well- mannered boy. Man. He’s almost 19 years old. He has never given me any problems.

It became clear to me on Tuesday that I needed to take a vacation day on Friday prior to the evening commencement. Friday arrived. As I was walking through the grocery store tears just began to stream down my cheeks. Tyler is graduating. Everything is changing. I lost it, over and over again.

My parents arrived and I tried to put on a brave front. Although I couldn’t eat I was able to put the tears away. I was nervous as to how I would react at commencement. I didn’t want to be ridiculed for showing my emotions.

Luckily for me Troy had a baseball tournament so I had other things to distract me. Get him to the field an hour before the game, make plans for him to meet up with us after commencement, games on Saturday and Sunday.

Commencement arrived and I was holding it together. I visited with all of his classmates. These are friends that I’ve known since Kindergarten. I have volunteered in their classes, had them overnight, to birthday parties, driven them all over the world and visited with them every day in school. To see them leave was heartbreaking. They kept asking me “Julie what are you going to do without us to visit you” I kept a brave face but said that I would indeed miss them but that I was excited for their future.

I made it through commencement with a few sobs, and afterward I mingled quite a bit, posed for many pictures with Tyler and his friends and thought it was going to be ok. I made it!

Saturday was filled with baseball games and a quick trip to the Edina Art Fair. Sunday was back to baseball. I had a few events to take my mind off of my sadness. I broke down a few times. I just can’t help it and realize this is OK to feel this way.

I kept telling myself be happy! Be proud! Yes, I am I am, but I’m sad too. I’m sad for the changes, sad for the end of my life as I have known it, sad for the little everyday things that will be changing.

Tyler tells me this experience will make it easier for me as Troy graduates. I say Pffft.

Enjoy the time you have with your children. Enjoy the time you have to spend with them. Take the time to spend with them. It all goes by too quickly. Enjoy Enjoy Enjoy!

MDRA Beginning Runners Graduates

2010-05-29T08:23:00.004-05:00

We held the final session of our MDRA Beginning Women's Running Class in Maple Grove on Wednesday. Not only did the women make phenomenal progress but they had fun while doing it! That's what it is about for me, having fun.

We completed the course with a timed mile first and a pot luck afterward. Nobby brought sushi and it was fabulous.

For the first timed mile, we had 25 people complete it, average time for these 25 people was 702.7 seconds (=10 min. 12.7 sec.); the fastest being 9:29 and the slowest being 14:30 (3 people sub-10 minutes).

For those who completed the course, we had a record of "100% improvement". We had average 10.9% improvement; the least improvement being 4.6% improvement (from 11:09 to 10:38); most improvement being 18.2% (from 12:48 to 10:28). Average improvement being 72.6 seconds!! (over a minute+!!!) We had 3 people sub-9 minutes with the fastest being 8:11, the slowest being 11:14 which would have placed her the 12th fastest person in the first timed-mile 8 weeks earlier.

Isn't that incredible? All finished the final mile test with smiles on their faces!

Last Saturday many of the women completed the Maple Grove 5K with 1 gal even running the Maple Grove half marathon! Amazing.

I've certainly enjoyed the past three years that I have been coaching with MDRA. I am looking forward to a 4th year. I may be coaching the 5K/10K class which will begin in August. We'll see!