Afton Sweet Afton!

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Oh Afton, Sweet Afton!

Really, Afton 50K is pretty sweet. John and Cheri have the RDing of the Rocksteady Races down and they go on without a hitch. Afton was my first 50K, way back in 2002. It was a training run, in March of 2002, before my first 50 miler, Ice Age. I bonked big time and actually had to be carried off the trail…I blacked out..it was pretty crazy scene. I hadn’t eaten -although I was instructed too-I drank WAY too much water and the course was more than I had ever handled before. However, I learned so much and I did not die.

Afton holds a special place in my heart. I’ve run the race 10 times, have trained there numerous times with my closest of  friends and have had so many laughs and smiles.

I am thrilled that I am feeling so great this year and able to run the race two weeks out from my last. It’s not like I’m ‘racing’, I’m running, building back my endurance and having a ball.

My alarm buzzed me awake at 3AM Saturday. After spending a week at the cabin I was tired!  I eventually moved out of bed and got ready for the day, heading out before 4, arriving at the course at 530. Plenty of time to get my packet, my shirts, visit with friends. So many friends!

Maria and I hung at the start line, had the obligatory UMTR photo shoot and were ready to roll.

Mike Wheeler Photo

Photo by UMTR

The morning was warm, it was going to be a hot day. Slow and steady was the plan…with lots of fun sprinkled in!

I didn’t feel any anxiety while running Afton. I know the course, I know the peeps, I’m less than 2 hours from home, I felt great. I brought my iphone along to try music if I wanted but I never played any. I just enjoyed listening to my thoughts, my breathing, to nature.

The first few miles were congested as we all found our place. The aid stations came quickly and I was glad that I had decided to wear a pack as I never have while running Afton before. However, my time between aid stations is a bit longer than the past and it was a holy hot day.  I cruised through the first few aid stations, not needing anything. At around mile 8 the speedsters of the 25K race began to pass. At first this was fine, I just moved aside, but eventually I found myself becoming SO irritated. There were over 600 of them and most of them passed me during that first loop. I was constantly being run down – sometimes on both sides, so I just stood there, letting them pass as many shouted out that they were on my left or right, expecting me to step off of the trail. After I while I told myself to chill out, but I did find myself not stepping off of the trail as much and just letting them get around on their own one way or another.

I planned to fill my pack at AS 5 where I knew my old running pals would be. Sure enough, as I ran in I spotted Nancy, Tom and Alicia. Tom filled my pack and I was greeted with hugs by the others. It was so great!  As I was running out Jeffrey caught up with me for a big wet hug. I’ve missed these guys! 

Speed work hasn’t really come into play yet since I began to run in February so earlier in the race I decided to try it out. I was feeling so good, why not?  I ran faster minutes here and there in the open field areas, thinking I’d see if I could get 16 miles done in 3:20 or so, then thinking I’d slow down the second loop to finish in 730-800.  The 320 would be fast for me in the shape that I am in, but it would be fun to try.

Sure enough, I came into the start/finish at 317. Wow. Super. I feel fine. OK, now I’ll do loop 2 in 4:30, I figured, finishing in 745-8. I slowed down, enjoyed the fact that I was no longer being run down by 25Kers and just really enjoyed myself. I was by myself most of the 2^nd loop, feeling the heat, feeling my body move, enjoying the run.  I didn’t have any foot pain, I felt strong. I felt hydrated and had plenty of energy. I took in the course, reliving all of the memories that it brought with it. 2014 was the last year that I ran the race. The course was stunning with the river, the hills, the singletrack, the new downhill trail recently completed and of course  all of the happy faces at the aid stations.

Freshtracks media photo

At mile 22 I was ready for COKE. I came into the aid station and drank a few glasses, then again at the final aid station. I was ready to run into the finish.  Sure enough, a few miles out, I’m running downhill and catch my foot on a root. Boom, I go down, fully sprawled out and sliding down the hill. Good grief!  I pick myself up, collect myself and run on. Time to wrap up this race.

At 702 I ran into the finish line; faster  than I intended and feeling better than I believed I could.  What an amazing day.

Mike Wheeler photo

The finish line was bustling with people so I hung out for an hour or so before heading for home, fully gratified and feeling blessed.

Paulette Odenthal photo

Afton 50K Race Report: Love

I haven't run the Afton 50K races since 2011 and that year the State Parks were closed so John had the races at the Afton Alps Ski Area. It was brutal, I was 6 months post hysterectomy and I was in the midst of herniated disc pain. I was so damn happy to be running, although it took me 8:30 to compete!

Fast forward to 2014 Afton 50K races at Afton State Park. A beautiful breezy warm July morning, tons of friends, my best friends and new friends. Just a perfect place to be.

I left home at 445 AM so I would arrive with time to pick up my number and head out. I don't like hanging about waiting for the race to begin. I arrived at 610 for 630 start time. Because the parking lots were full I was directed to park right on the road, a few feet from the start line. Sweet!

Making sure that I had my watch, my iPod, 12 gels and a cooler with a RedBull, Ultragen and Protein Powder I headed out to the start, dropped my cooler and mosied over to pick up my number. Lucky 13. I was ready.

I hung with Arika and Maria while we listened to John give us the details. He asked how many were running their first ultra-many hands went up. It was so awesome to see so many beginning their ultra adventure. He asked how many were running their 5th Afton, many more hands went up..mine included.

He sent us on our way and off we went.  I figured I could finish in 7 hours. The course is a double loop. I wanted to run the first loop hard, in 3 hours or less, then let up a bit on the second loop. That was the plan. 

The morning was spectacular. Bright sunshine, real nice stiff breeze, not many bugs.  I felt great!  No ankle pain, no nervousness, just happy to be out there to do what I love.

Aid Station 1 came up quickly. I refilled with water and ate a gel. I have really been having great luck with my race nutrition since I have begun to use only gels, water and ecaps. I'm still shocked at the simplicity and how well this works. No more decision making at the tables, easy to carry and HammerNutrition sponsors most races so their gels are on most tables. The only downside is the stickiness of the product. My hands become sticky and my clothing is eventually sticky as well.  Oh well.  No stomach upset and continuous energy..well worth the stickiness.

I made sure to have a gel every 30 minutes. This would be the first test at running a faster pace, in the heat, with only gels. They were doing the job.

I ran into many friends along the course, at aid stations and running the race. So much fun!

As I came into the 25K mark I looked at the time clock: 2:53. I was right on. Wow!  I ran hard, kept hydrated, energized and in good shape.  As I went over to my cooler I saw Don holding it, handing to me. How nice!  We chatted, I saw Jim Wilson and chatted with him as I guzzled down a RedBull. Thanks to Ryan for showing me the RedBull way at Savage 100!  I grew my wings and headed out to loop 2.

I began to feel the heat, the fatigue in my legs from the hills. Afton has many climbs and many areas of open prairie, although much of the course is shaded, thankfully. I made a mental note that I did not want to DNF a training run so made sure to hold back on the next 25K. I reminded myself that 7 was my plan and it looked like 630 was going to happen regardless. I was happy with this.  

As I ran along the river I saw Steve Quick walking toward me. I haven't seen him in a long time. A quick hug and hello and off I went with a smile. 

At the final aid station I saw Jeff, Al, Nancy, Kris, Tom and John all working the aid station. Hugs all around, big smiles and it's time to finish this party up. I come around the corner and who do I see? RD John. Awesome! Another hug, a laugh, a 'look at us' and I'm off with smiles galore. Good friends, this is what it is all about.


I ran into the finish at 618. Very happy with that time, not to mention how great I felt. I sure have the heat training in now. Voyaguer 50 is a few weeks away and it is usually really warm. Hopefully not really wet this year.  

If you haven't run a RockSteady Race you really need to give it a try. John and Cheri really have the RDing down to a science. They do a fabulous job. Great organization and great fun.  Thank you!

After hanging out at the finish, cheering in others and visiting with friends it was time to move on to more fun. I was meeting Bonnie and Marie after the race. We had such a blast!  We made sushi, spring rolls, soaked in the hot tub, went for a pontoon ride-what an amazing day!

On Friday I'm going up to Lutsen to run the Superior Sawtooth 100 course. Time to get some technical running in. Superior scares me. Although I've finished it 2x I've also DNFd 2x, my first and my last. I finally entered Friday. I am in. This whole year is all about finishing Superior.

In other news: We had Troy's graduation party last Sunday. We had so much fun. Many friends and family shared the day with us. I can't believe the time has come. He was awarded a Merit Scholarship as well as other scholarships to help with his tuition at the U of M. I'm so proud of him. We'll be empty nesters by the end of August.

With all of the changes at home taking place I chose to make another. After 11 years at the Big Lake High School I am now moving to the Big Lake Middle School. I'm taking a position that contains two classification increases as well as a pay raise, more hours. I will still have July off but no longer 8 weeks. I'm so excited for this new challenge!

Next up: Voyageur 50 Mile. Woohoo!  It's been 5 years since I've run the Voyageur. Looking forward to it.



 

 

 

Savage 100 Mile Trail Run: Race Report

Savage 100 Mile Trail Run: Believing in Myself Gives me an Edge

I wear this necklace all of the time. I wore it for the race, too.

Where to begin? It’s been a long haul but I feel like I’m finally breaking through the injury, the menopause and the depression. I feel as though I am coming out on the other side.

When I learned that Les Martisko was creating The Savage 100 Mile Trail Run so that he could finish a 100 mile ultramarathon as a way to celebrate his 70^th birthday I wanted to be a part of the celebration.  Les and I have run many many miles together over the years.

When I first began Ultra I was fighting the cut offs and Les would patiently coach me during our races, letting me know that we were in fact going to finish.  He was always correct. He was always steady. I’ve learned so much from him.

Happy Birthday to Les, may we all be running 100 mile ultramarathons for our 70^th birthday! 

Going into The Savage 100 I felt very confident that I could finish. Zumbro 50 was a dream come true five weeks prior. I had been having NO ankle pain, I believed in myself. Believing in myself gives me an edge.

The race course was held at Murphy-Hanrehan Park, a Dakota County Park located in Savage MN. It was a 16+ mile loop-plenty of hills, beaver dam water crossing, woods  and open prairie areas. It was all trail but for a short-maybe .50 mile tops each lap was dirt road.   It reminded me of McNaughton 100 in more than one way.

I chose to begin the race at 300 AM. We could start at 300 AM or at 600 AM. The race was finished at 1 PM Sunday for a total of 34 hours.  I figured I could use every spare hour I could take. My ‘goal’ was to  finish each loop in 5 hours-giving me a 30 hour finish.

Because gels, water and electrolyte worked 100% at Zumbro I was going to use the same plan. I'm so grateful to Karl for getting me off of the solid food leading to  stomach aches, gas, bloat and energy crashes and making such a strong case to me to try gels, only gels!  He always says to me IT IS WHAT THE BODY NEEDS, Jule! I had multiple changes of shoes, socks and clothing. Batteries, gels, electrolytes, foot potion, etc. I loved that I could use my car as my drop bag, reaching it every 17 miles. Woohoo.

I pulled on my Nathan Vest, filled one 20 oz bottle with water, my headlamp and handheld flashlight and walked toward the start area. I didn’t recognize anyone at first out of the 60 entrants. I didn’t know who was going to begin at 300 or 600 so wasn’t sure who to look for. Eventually Misty and Victoria meandered to the start and Bob took photos of us.  Let’s get this party started. Seriously. That was my thought. Party on the trail.

Misty, Me and Victoria <3 br="">

Kim Martin, our RD, gave us a lowdown on the course, the markings, the beaver dam, etc. and told us to go. We went! 

Interesting way that we began..all looking down!

As I began to run up the trail I looked up to the full moon, the stars and just felt such deep gratitude for being able to start this 100 miler. My ankle had been feeling solid, my training leading up to the race had been spot on. I was so grateful to be right where I was. Other than my nutrition for the week prior I had been 100%. I was going to be OK. I was going to finish. Those were my thoughts.

I picked my way along the trail, looking for the first crack of dawn. Pretty soon I could see the sky becoming  a bright pink, then deep purple and light blue. So beautiful. We were going to have a great day.

At each aid station I made sure I had an adequate supply of gels and filled my water bottle. The stations were amazing. As I approached I’d be asked what I wanted: do you want a burrito, a pancake, soup, potato? Um, no, gel and water please! Simple.

I caught Anjanette along the first loop and ended up running the first 53 miles with her!  We’ve never run together before. I first met Anjanette at Superior 100 last fall and I don’t think I had seen her since.  She told me she was going to try to hang with me for the next few loops but that she would run her own race. I told her that was fine. I was going to do what felt good, no pressure. 

As I finished up loop1 I headed to my car to wash my feet, lube them up, change socks. I dropped my jacket, changed out of long sleeved shirt into short sleeves, dropped my gloves, exchanged headlamp for sunglasses. I was ready to go after 6 minutes.  I believe loop one was less that 4 hours. I thought that was probably too fast.

Loop 2 went very well. It was fun to see the surroundings in daylight.  Again, the aid stations were amazing-lots of variety-lots of welcoming smiles. All I needed was a gel and water.

Loop 2 ended up taking under 4 hours too. I needed to slow down but I didn’t feel overtaxed or anything, so maybe I’d just go with it. I again washed my feet and changed socks. The rocks were chewing up my feet along with the mud. The bottoms of my feet were becoming raw and my stupid little toes were covered in callus with blister wanting to form. Honest to god, they end up smushed up in my shoes into the shapes of little wedges with deep points. My socks had a ton of grit in them even though I was wearing gaiters. All I could do was wash them down and clean them off. I had two jugs of water at my car so I’d just pour water over them, dry them off and lube them up. Hoping for the best!

During Loop 3 I began to feel antsy. I was changing my plan. I was feeling the endorphin rush. Screw the 5 hour laps! I felt like I should try to get in as many miles as I could before the darkness of night arrived. I felt like stretching out my legs and running hard! Anjanette said that she would probably walk Loop 4 so I thought that would be when I’d put the hammer down.

We reached 50 mile in 11:40. Great pace, I was feeling good. After Loop 3 I walked up to the start/finish and finally recognized a few friends. I gave E a big hug and yacked with Jeff for so long that when I took off to run away from the aid station I realized I had forgotten to fill my water bottle!  Oops!  Oh well, the next aid station was 4 miles away and I didn’t feel like it was a do or die situation. After running a few miles I told Anjanette was going to listen to my tunes and peel out. I was going to get as many miles in as I could before night fall.  Off I peeled.

Once I was by myself I was able to think deeply about where I was and what I was doing. I was feeling my strength, my weaknesses, my emotions. I was moving along so well and was quite surprised at how great this race was going.

As I ran into Natchez Arika, Jim, Ryan, Vickie, BJ  and Bob began to clap and cheer. Every time I ran in to Natchez Arika was there yahooing me!  I heard Hey Sugar, what can I get you? Oh, water and gel will do. Well, I think you should try a Red Bull. Oh, really? Well, I never have. Oh, you need to. OK, I will. Shall I drink it with moderation or guzzle it down? Well, I don’t really do moderation…yeah, we’d make a great pair..I don’t either. I guzzled down that Red Bull and grew wings!  I couldn’t believe the quick energy it gave me.

Before I knew it I was running with a pep in my step and a goofy grin on my face. I figured I might as well get a full bump of energy  so took down an espresso hammergel and a few advil. Might as well get a big bang!  I did! I felt like I was flying and I was nothing but pure positive in my mind. I have been practicing positive thinking for a long time.

I began to think about Superior 100, where I broke my ankle in September. I really want to go back and get another finish. As I felt like I was flying down the trail I said aloud “Ok, Superior Sawtooth..I’m coming after you and I am going to make you my bitch!” I had to laugh at myself, I don’t normally speak that way!  It was hilarious. I was totally enjoying myself.

Each time I ran into Horse Camp Aid Station the captain would exclaim 'Here she comes again, smiling as always!' I was. I was truly beaming, full of euphoria.

I hadn't listened to any music yet. I decided to turn on my iPod and enjoy, running along the trail, loving the solitary moment. I needed to be by myself, to think deeply. I love the social aspect of ultrarunning-the training with others, the races with friends, but I also crave the solitary moments. I mostly train by myself. I need the time alone where I can go deeply into my mind, my soul, for hours on end.  It’s good medicine.

I hit 68 miles at 15:30 and felt on top of the world.  At my car I refilled my gels, an electrolyte caplet, a bandana for my head, headlamp. It was still relatively warm -55F-so I would wait until the next lap to change into pants if necessary.

The 5^th loop just amazed me. I couldn’t believe that I had been running so well for so long. I knew that when darkness arrived I would slow down miserable. I have horrible night vision. Even with two lights and brand new batteries my eyes fail.

The sunset was glorious. Deep magenta with purple streaks across the sky. I stood there with tears in my eyes. I was so thankful to again be able to do what I love. To  do what fills me up. 

The moon and stars popped out, lighting the way. So gorgeous. I stood still, turned my lights off and extended my arms to the moon. I cried. I was so thankful.

For the final 17 I added a pair of pants and gloves. I was getting really cold. I turned on my car along with the heat and thawed out for a few minutes. Some more gels, a bottle refill, change of batteries, wash of feet and I was on my way. I noticed that my Garmin 310 XT had died. I decided I’d consume a gel every other mile by the mile markers on the course. I was sticking with the gels for my nutrition and it was proving to work 100% again. No stomach upset and plenty of energy.

I couldn’t believe I was on my final loop. I reminded myself how a 100 mile race can be much like life. Ups, downs..many emotions. I had felt them all.

I had wished my family had an interest in coming out to check in during the race. It was only an hour from home and I thought maybe they would. I had extended the invitation to family and friends.

My perception of the enormity of running 100 miles has changed since my hysterectomy. Prior to that I ran 14 100 milers in 5 years. Since hysterectomy I’ve taken on one battle after another head on.  Recovery from hysterectomy, herniated discs, avulsion fracture, break, depression. All related to hysterectomy-of this I am certain. I may have been knocked down but never knocked out. I’ve come out on the other side and I am getting there, back to where I want to be.  To the person I will be.

As I posted earlier, May is my RECONNECT. It’s become my RESET as well. I truly felt like I pressed my reset button. I had made the recovery, I was ready to stop dwelling on the past and I was ready to move on to the future. A bright, bright future!  RESET.

As I ran into the final stretch I wasn’t sure of the time. The sky was beginning to lighten, the moon went away. I made a final pit stop and guessed it to be about 26 hours.  I began to get choked up, to speak my gratitude out loud. I had made my peace.

I ran into the finish line, there was a lone woman standing there to take my bib and hand me my finish time. 26:07. I was totally thrilled. I wasn’t injured, I wasn’t tired, I was strong, happy and healthy.

Swag

I walked over to my car, stripped out of my wet muddy stinky clothes. Mixed up a shake and began to dress. It was  a long process.  My body felt that old, yet familiar, feeling…100 mile pain and fatigue. Yes, I had missed it.

I placed First Master Woman, 13^th Overall.  Not bad for my comeback! My endurance is back-my speed and body composition will follow. I’m working on it, I’m bringing it!

I'm looking forward to a summer of training hard, reaching my goals. Up next is the Afton 50K, Voyageur 50 Mile, Superior Sawtooth 100 and TBunk. I got this.

Afton 50K Race Report: Reroute: BRUTAL

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 :)

5 Weeks Post Hysterectomy

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.

Midnight Run O' Fun

I received an email from Alicia last week asking to join her on a midnight rendezvous at Afton State Park. How could I resist?

Running through the park-in the dark-at midnight-when most sane people are sleeping. An offer that was incredibly enticing.

John, Kevin, myself, Alicia, Tom, Pierre, Helen, Maria and Amy all met at the visitor center before midnight. We applied mosquito spray, donned headlamps and headed out into the dark woods. Fabulous!

As we were running the race course I noticed two bright, round lights just past a large tree. My first thought was that it must be John spooking me, as he had been running just up ahead. Eventually I voiced my find in the woods. "Look at those two lights, is that someone else out there or what is that?" It was the first of many, many deer, peering back at us as we were interrupting their nighttime rest.

A while later I saw Pierre and Kevin stop abruptly, I heard raised voices. As I walked up to them I saw what Pierre almost ran through. A HUGE circular web with a large spider attached to the middle. Creepy! Pierre could have had that web spread across his face.

We continued to run and as predicated, within 2.5 hours the thunderstorm began. Loud cracks of lighting with booms of thunder followed. There were a few very scary bolts of lighting that were loud, that had struck something out there and lit up the sky like the fireworks on the 4th of July.

It felt warm and humid during our run so the rain was actually welcomed. The storm we could have done without.

Eventfully we reached the lot and were welcomed by Nancy. She was at the park, early this morning, to begin a wonderful breakfast of grilled grass fed beef burgers for us! We changed out of our wet clothes - except Pierre who forgot dry clothes - and reminisced about our hours on the trail as we were drinking hot coffee and eating burgers, a mixture of salads, birthday cake for Tom and brownies for a second dessert.

A wonderful way to spend the dark dark hours; running with fabulous friends. I'm grateful to be a part of such a wonderful friendship.

Afton 50K

Jason Husveth shot many many photos of the race on Saturday. He was able to get a shot of almost every runner during the day.

The photos Jason shot can be viewed here: http://picasaweb.google.com/jasonhusveth

Thank you, Jason!

Me Coming into Afton 50K Aid Station

Under The Big Top

Rock Star!

One Of The Boys Is Not Like The Other..

One of these boys is not like the the other, one of these boys is just not quite the same. Can you tell which one is not like the other, before I tell you his name?

Do you remember that song?

Nice Prize, Hu?

John asked if anyone knew Julie Berg..I did!

Fun Frolicking Through The Park

Oh yes. I did have fun. I did frolic. I had fun frolicking through the park. I had fabulous fun frolicking through the park. Say that 10 times!

The Afton 25K/50K race is absolutely top notch. 2008 brought a new race director to the race. John Storkamp. He did a wonderful job. He was (he looked and acted) calm, cool and collected. He didn't seem stressed, he seemed to have fun. Not only did he direct the race; he also created the awards. The medals around our necks (which volunteers helped to create) and the prints he created for the top finishers. Amazing. Kudos to John and Cheri, and to the volunteers that manned the start/finish and all of the aid stations.

Today promised to be Afton-esque. Hot and humid with a nice breeze which later became a stiff wind. Perfect. It reached 89F.

Hammer Nutrition again provided a zillion packets of gel for each station and HEED, as they did at the Superior 25K/50K. This just makes the race so much easier for me! I didn't have to carry anything but a bottle and I didn't need a drop bag for HEED. Awesome. I didn't eat any solids. I consumed 240 ounces of HEED and 6 gels, 24 oz of water.

I've never had so much to drink during any race before. Ever. The aid stations were 3 miles apart and I filled my bottle at every one, draining it before the next one. My clothing was very white and salty post race. My skin looked like a salt mine. I had NO swelling as I didn't take any E/SCaps. I seem to get enough salt from the HEED. Something else I have finally figured out this year.

For the race I had a few goals going through my brain. First goal: A PR. My fastest Afton 50K time is 609. I wanted to run 608 for sure. Second goal: Break 6 hours. I thought I could. Third goal: PR Superior 50K time of 557. I wasn't sure of this. It's strange, but in the past I have run Superior 50K faster than Afton 50K and Superior is a tougher course. As I was running today I realized it must be because for Superior I am post McNaughton 3 weeks and have had a few days of light recovery running, then heavy training. For Afton I am deep into training for a summer 100 so I am tired. I use both of these runs as training runs so I don't taper. Well, my finish today didn't live up to that idea. Goal 4: AWARD. I wanted one of John's prints. How wonderful it would look on my wall of fame. Ha on the fame.

I did something I haven't done before. I looked at the entrants to see how many women over 40 were running. Hey, I wanted to see if I could win a print! There were 11 of us listed in the 40-49 age group for the Masters award. I knew John was giving 1, 2 and 3. I also knew that Eve Rembleski (ROCK ON EVE!) would win the woman's and as there were no doubling of awards the first master woman was still up for grabs. I figured I'd come in 4th in the batch which was too bad because 4 didn't get an award. Oh well. Onto Goal 1-3.

My god, people near my home shot off fireworks all freaking night. I went to bed at 11 and woke up every 35 minutes to boom boom boom. Topaz was a nervous wreck, Toffee was sleeping on my head, it wasn't a good night. 400 came too early.

I made it to Afton in plenty of time to get my packet from Tom and Nancy, my awesome Marmot shirt and had some time to visit with Deb, Maria, Pierre and many others. We lined up near the back and listened to John's go.

I wanted to really blast the downhills. I'm lacking in this area and with Leadville approaching, I figured this is a great place to do it. I had great success with the hills. I wore my Garmin 50 and saw that the downhills were sometimes a sub 7 minute mile pace. Granted, they only lasted a short time, but I'll take what I can get!

First loop I ran a bit with Pierre and Doug, talking Leadville. Doug has paced out there and Pierre has run it. I love listening to other's stories. Eventually I ran off and never really ran with anyone through the rest of the race. I didn't listen to my ipod until the last half of the last loop. I was just enjoying the warm air, all of the volunteers, the beautiful scenery that the Afton State Park offers.

I came into the 25K mark at 248. E Fisher Drew gave me a gentle pat and a 'go' to get out and get running. Thanks E! I needed that. I realized I could PR and break 6 hours. I felt fine, nothing hurt, I wasn't tired at all. I thought maybe I should have gone faster.

Second loop I had to go pee for the first time which is crazy in itself. I usually pee at least once an hour. As I walked into the bushes I fell! I tripped over a stump and cut my knee. I couldn't believe it. It was only bleeding a bit, but still. Fall while walking.

I walked up some of the huge monster hills, but otherwise I ran the race the best I could. When I didn't see anyone in front or in back of me I decided to play my ipod for a while. Nobody every came up on me. I began to pass some men but never saw any women out there. I began to wonder where I was in the field of girls.

As I came into the final aid station I gave Jefferey a quick hug and asked Tom for the time. I asked him if I was going to break 6 hours. Isn't that ridiculous. Me who is running the race, asking Tom, who is working the aid station if I am going to break 6 hours. How silly of me. Nancy yelled YES you can, go!

I went. I ran as fast as I could that last section. It is the most difficult section for me. It's the snowshoe trail and rooty and rocky. I need to watch where I am placing my feet. Most of the Afton course is runnable, but this section is a slow runnable for me. I still hadn't looked at my watch. I just wanted to run hard and break 6 hours. I didn't know if I could or not but I knew if I looked at my watch and thought I could, then I would let up. I didn't want to let up.

I finally heard some female voices in back of me. They turned out to be Pam and Kami. I asked Kami if she was from Monticello, as I recalled seeing her listed as a finisher last year, and Monticello is only a few miles from where I live in Big Lake. Yes, it was Kami from Monticello. We chatted and grinded to the finish line. I crossed the line in 5:50

I reached all four goals. I PR'd my Afton time, I broke 6 hours, I PR'd my Superior 50K time and I won an award: First Master Woman. I love it!

After I ran into the finish line it was time to catch up with everyone. I sat with Eve and Wynn. Eve BROKE her woman's course record set last year again. She finished in 413! Get this. She forgot to take today off, she is working right now. Yeah. After running a 413 50K!!

I had fabulous fun frolicking through the park.