Tag: Team JDRF

Medina Half Training: Week Two

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This was certainly an interesting week. It went nothing like I had expected, but I did learn a lot from it. It all started Monday evening as I was leaving for Body Fusion. I had originally planned on going early to get a few miles in before class. Time got away from me, and I ended up leaving about 10 minutes before class started, and about 5 minutes later than I should have. As I was leaving the development, I came across a car parked funny in a driveway. After taking a second look, I realized there was an accident and quickly turned around. I was the first one there and wasn’t sure what to do, but luckily a neighbor, who was an off duty officer came out to help. Within the next half hour paramedics came, got the man out of the car and started to take note of the accident. There wasn’t much I could do, so I headed to the rec to get half of my class in. Turns out it was a drunk driver who admitted he had a problem, but doesn’t remember much of what happened. Makes you think that even on the sidewalk there can be dangers when running. Drive safe and run safe, no matter where you are.

Clearly Monday I wasn’t too focused in class and I definitely didn’t get my full hour in, but I figured I’d make up for it on Tuesday. I headed to the rec for an easy run, but ended up with an off feeling in my stomach and couldn’t keep going. I was disappointed, but hoped I’d feel better for my speed work the following day.

Wednesday I attempted my first speed workout of the cycle and my first speed workout on an indoor track. Because 10 laps equals one mile on our track, I was a little nervous on how it would go, but I just tried to imagine myself on an outdoor track. I started my warm up a little quicker than I had hoped, but was still able to kick it up for the first mile. I recovered with an 800m jog and attempted another mile, this time 10 seconds quicker. I finished up with a very slow mile but was pleasantly surprised when I saw that I had done my complete workout in 39 minutes. I felt great and knew that there would be many more amazing speed workouts ahead for me.

4.5 miles on the track, I'll take it!

4.5 miles on the track, I’ll take it!

But as quickly as I finished, my stomach started to disagree. I headed home, but luckily felt back to normal by the time I got there. I usually prefer evening runs because my body almost always works with me. But unfortunately this week it didn’t. I’ve been keeping up with my hydration (during the week), and trying to eat healthier. The problem? Eating dinner at 9:30 every night. I’d like to say this doesn’t happen much, but because of my and D’s work schedule, 9:00-9:30 is typical dinner time. Now that I’m on a regular running schedule I need to figure something out so this doesn’t happen every week. Lesson two of the week, eat earlier so my body can run better the next day.

Monday: Body Fusion Class – 5 minutes of lifting/abs/squats & 30 minutes of yoga

Tuesday: 2.5 Miles

Wednesday: 4.5 Miles, 1 mile w/u, 1 mile 8:12, 800m recovery 4:38, 1 mile 8:02, 1 mile c/d

Thursday: Off

Friday: Off

Saturday: 1 mile

Sunday: 3.5 miles

Total Miles: 11.5 miles

The week didn’t get better from there. I pretty much failed as a runner this weekend. I only got 1 mile in on Saturday, but I ran with Darren and it was his choice of how far we’d run since it was an optional day for me. The wind was pretty strong, so I’m not sure I would have felt any better after a couple more miles, but it was nice to get outside and not be bundled up in 48 layers.

I knew Sunday would be weird because we spent the night in Wooster celebrating our anniversary. I was in a funk all day and chose Target and wine tastings over my run when we got back home that morning. I never had the motivation to go running, until around 5:00, post nap and a cup of coffee. The only thing to motivate me? The sunset. I had a glimpse of the sun setting over the houses and decided to head out. And I’m so glad I did! I ventured on the back roads, keeping my eye on traffic and decided to venture off road a bit. I climbed around a fence (possibly trespassing) and up a hill to see the most beautiful view.

I live for runs with this view

I live for runs with this view

I headed back down and headed toward home, knowing I had limited minutes left, I stayed on the sidewalks and ended up with 3.5 beautiful sunset runs. It wasn’t a lot, but I felt great and it was exactly what I needed. It wasn’t a good week, but I did have a few good runs. I’m hoping this week will be better and hopefully no surprises! Lesson three, get my runs done early, because putting them off all day won’t help in the end. Although the views can be pretty magical.

Do you prefer runs at night or in the morning? What are your best tips for indoor speed workouts?

 

Weekly Fact about Type 1 Diabetes: What are the symptoms of Type 1 Diabetes? Because Type 1 Diabetes is often diagnosed in young children, the symptoms may be difficult to notice or can be mixed up with another diagnosis. Be on the look out for these symptoms if you think someone may have Type 1 Diabetes.

  • Extreme thirst
  • Frequent urination
  • Sudden vision changes
  • Sugar in urine
  • Fruity, sweet, or wine-like odor on breath
  • Increased appetite
  • Sudden weight loss
  • Drowsiness, lethargy
  • Heavy, labored breathing
  • Stupor, unconsciousness

If you notice these symptoms, then contact your doctor immediately. It’s important to test for Diabetes as quickly as you can before it can cause more damage.

Please help me find a cure for Type 1 Diabetes by donating here!

Medina Half Training: Week One

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First week of training is in the books and I’m happy to say it was my final week of traveling! I couldn’t be more excited to get back to a regular schedule because this week threw me for a loop! The hardest part about running and traveling is time management. Even though we had a quick 25 hour trip in St. Louis, time was tight and there was no room for exercise. I knew this week I wouldn’t be able to follow my plan as well as I hoped, but I wanted to try. Instead I took each day as it’s own and focused on that workout alone.

Body Fusion was great this week, there were only two of us in class, but I felt that we were able to do more than we usually could. I also went up in my weights, it’s nice to see that the class is paying off and I can finally lift more without feeling too exhausted. I can’t wait to see how well this class helps me out this year.

Tuesday and Wednesday I was in St. Louis with no time to exercise. By the time I got home from the airport on Wednesday night I knew I wouldn’t make it to the gym, so I ran in the basement, getting a measly two miles in. Not much, but it was better than waiting until another day to run.

Luckily Thursday I was able to get to the gym. I decided that instead of trying to make up for lost miles on the week, I would just stick to whatever the schedule had planned. I had 4 on the schedule and wanted to keep them at a similar pace if I could, as a way to prepare for Sunday’s 5k. I kept the pace just under 9:00 and made sure to check my 1.5 mile time and 2.5 mile time for reference. It seemed easy enough then, so hopefully I could do the same on Sunday.

Monday: Body Fusion Class – 30 minutes of lifting/abs/squats & 30 minutes of yoga

Tuesday: Off

Wednesday: 2 Miles

Thursday: 4 Miles

Friday: Off

Saturday: 3 Miles

Sunday: Frosty 5k + 4 Miles

Total Miles: 16 Miles

Saturday was supposed to be my long run of 7 miles, but I woke up with tight calves that just wouldn’t relax. I ran three and even then I struggled to keep my legs going. With all the snow and cold we’ve been getting it’s been hard for neighbors to keep up with shoveling their sidewalks, so only half of them seem to be clear. I attempted to run sidewalks when I could, but ended up on the street after almost twisting my ankle on some ice. After 3 miles and almost a dozen falls, I decided to head in and run my long run Sunday. With the 5k, I’d only have to do an extra 4 miles, which seemed like an easy plan.

Sunday I woke up early, tried to get rid of my nerves and headed to the rec center. They were hosting the Frosty 5k, which I’ll recap on Wednesday. After my three miles were completed, I opted to head home instead of run on the track. I like to take advantage of running outdoors when I can, even when it’s cold and snowy. The snow started to pick up, so I headed through developments where traffic wouldn’t be as busy. My pace was pretty much on spot at 9:30 except for about a half mile where I ended up in the 8:30 range somehow. I was able to explore parts of a new development, but was stuck on the street due to the foot of snow that was on the sidewalks. Most cars were being stand up citizens and driving on the other side of the road to avoid me. All except for a lovely lady in a white mini van, who decided to yell and swerve towards me to show her anger of runners on the road. I pulled into a driveway to collect myself, feeling glad I was ok, but pretty angry. While I understand that winter isn’t the best time for runners and drivers to share the road, there’s no reason to display anger like that. When sidewalks aren’t clear or aren’t available, sometimes the road is the only place to run. I saw a few other runners running the road, in the same development, so I’m sure she was having a wonderful day scaring runners.

After this I headed back towards home, my legs starting to loose traction on the road from the snow. They were also pretty tight from the slight uphill and the random spots of ice that I found. I finished up with 7 for the day, just as my plan showed. Even though I didn’t get all the miles I was supposed to run this week, I still had some good runs. I’m so excited to have a normal week again, so I can ramp up the mileage and work on my speed!

How are battling the elements this winter? Do you prefer sidewalks or road to run on?

 

Weekly Fact about Type 1 Diabetes:

What is Type 1 Diabetes? Sure you’ve heard of it, but do you really know what it means? Type 1 Diabetes happens when the pancreas doesn’t produce insulin. Insulin helps to convert sugar, starches and other foods into energy that is needed every day. Without natural insulin, you have to find another way to get insulin into your body, such as using daily injections or an insulin pump. Type 1 Diabetes is diagnosed in children and young adults and is a lifelong challenge.

Want to help cure Type 1 Diabetes? You can donate here!

Medina Half Marathon Training

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The time has finally come. In just 16 short weeks I’ll be running the Medina Half Marathon and working towards my mission of sub 2:00! I’m finally out of my non running funk and couldn’t be more excited to get some major mileage back on my shoes. Last year was the trial run of the race, and it went so well that I couldn’t wait to sign up for the race again this year. I’m more than confident that I can run sub 2:00, and without any injuries I should be able to ramp up training to push me to my limits. 2013 was a rough year of running for me, so this year, I’m determined not to let anything get in my way. So with out any more delay, let’s take a look at the facts for the race and see what the next 16 weeks will bring!

Medina Half Facts:

  • The half marathon is capped at 1000 runners for the first year, and it just sold out last night. Amazing how many people will be running the streets of Medina on May 31st!
  • There is a 5k option available with no limit of runners. It’s only $20 until April 1st, and you can sign up here.
  • The medal is one of a kind and created by the same company that does Boston’s medal.
Love, love this medal.

Love, love this medal.

  • If you can’t run the race, or happen to be in the area on race day, you can sign up to volunteer here!
  • Medina Half has a race specific training plan you can follow if you’re looking for some help. There are also group runs and course runs available as well.
  • All other info can be found here or on the Facebook Page.

As you can tell, I’m excited for this race. I know the course and I know what to expect as far as hills and when I need to push it and when I can take it easy. As far as my own goals and training, I went back to Runner’s World Smart Coach to set the basics. From there I added my cross training ( Body Fusion & Yoga) and moved a few things around to where I’m comfortable. I’ve included speed work and hills again and this time I don’t completely hate them. I also included optional running days that help to keep me from running too much, but can help if a workout earlier in the week didn’t go as planned.

Capture

As for my goals, I’ve got quite a few. I’ll need to keep all of these in mind if I want to have the best race of my life come May 31st.

  • Run Sub 2:00. The giant milestone that I am currently 5 minutes and 56 seconds away from.
  • PR. As long as I run 2:05:54 I’ll have a PR, but I’d love to have a pretty big gap between my next PR and my current one. Even better if it starts with a 1.
  • Gain weight. Yes, such a troublesome topic that most people hate to talk about. I’m not happy with my current weight and know that I need to fill out a little. Let’s say add 10lbs, because we all know that 5lbs comes and goes easily.
  • Cross train at least twice a week. Whether it be Body Fusion, Yoga or getting on the bike, I need to keep on this. I know that cross training helps to keep me injury free, so that should be motivation enough.
  • Eat healthier. This goes alone with gaining weight. If you eat poorly, you run poorly. I also need to find the perfect foods for race day eve and race day morning. Tummy troubles no more.
  • Raise $1000 for Team JDRF. As you may or may not know, Darren was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes when he was 3 years old. Diabetes is now a part of my life as I watch him live with it every day. Team JDRF is fighting to find a cure for Type 1 Diabetes so that future generations won’t have this horrible disease. Each week I’ll be posting a fact as way to educate readers on Diabetes. If you want to help find a cure, you can donate here. I truly appreciate it!

So there we have it, the facts about Medina Half, my training plan and my goals for the next 16 weeks. It’s going to take a lot of work and dedication to reach this milestone, but I’m so excited and can’t wait for May 31st!

 

Running for a Cause

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With less than 6 months to go until the Medina Half Marathon, I know I have to get my butt in gear. I haven’t started training yet, but I’ve put a lot of pressure on myself for this race. I’ve got some major goals and I plan on meeting all of them. However, one goal I have is pretty important. This year I’ll be running to spread awareness of Type 1 Diabetes, and running for Team JDRF. I ran for the team in 2012 at the Cleveland Half Marathon, but this time I’m doing it on my own.

You may or may not know, but Darren was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes when he was just three years old. He’s had to deal with the ups and downs, but he has everything pretty much under control now. Over the past four years I’ve learned a lot about Diabetes and I want to help find a cure. Darren has been a wonderful support system with my running, traveling to races and getting up at the crack of dawn to stand outside for hours, just to see me pass by for a few seconds. There seems like no better way to thank him than to help find a cure for Diabetes.

Braving the wind & cold for me

Braving the wind & cold for me

So now until May 31st, I’ll be running my tail end off, not just for myself, not just for a course record or a sub 2:00 time. I’ll be running to help find a cure for Diabetes and spread awareness. If you’d like to help as well, you most definitely can. Spread the word about Type 1 Diabetes, read up on it, or donate to help find a cure. Any way to help is always appreciated!

And don’t forget, you can still sign up for the Medina Half Marathon & 5k! Registration for the half is only $40 until 12/31 so sign up and BEE there!

 

Cleveland Take Two

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Before I start on my race recap, let’s back up to Friday and the expo. Outside of the whole parking ordeal, I was pretty excited to get my race shirt and see what other items I could live without needed. I got there around 6, so I only had an hour, which was probably better on my wallet anyway. I saw a few familiar faces, but I was on a mission to get to the pacers booth. One of my coaches from high school just happened to be in town for the race. In fact, the same coach that encouraged us to run with Second Sole back in high school. We spent a good half hour catching up and discussing a number of topics. She gave me great tips, and told me I could definitely go sub 2 soon. Encouraging, but it didn’t cross my mind for Sunday, or even this summer. More importantly, she agreed to help me pace my marathon in October. Seriously, I couldn’t ask for anything better. It was a great start to the weekend.

An inspiration

So fast forward to Sunday. I was feeling pretty good when I woke up at 4:30. I was nervous though, after running the 5k on Saturday, I was concerned on how I would handle 13 miles in the heat. I still had the words “it’s ok if you don’t finish” stuck in my head from my dad. He told me not to go all out, and just take it easy. I continued to get ready and was headed down town early enough that traffic wouldn’t be an issue. I had a parking pass, so I easily found a spot next to Brown’s Stadium and I was ready to go.

I spent the next hour trying to calm my nerves and prepare myself for the heat. I made a quick decision at bag check to run with my fuel belt. It would be my first time using it, and after a quick few steps of warming up, it was already bouncing around. Should I use it, should I go put it back, should I wear it as long as I can handle and then just toss it somewhere on the course? This became my new stress for the next half hour.

Finally the race was ready to start, I decided to use the belt for as long as I could handle it. When that moment came where it was too annoying, I would figure out what to do then. I started out behind the 9:30 pace group. If I could start faster while the weather was cooler I knew I had a better chance of finishing. The first mile was slow and congested, and the heat set in as soon as we turned the corner. I  immediately thought of last year in Columbus where I was mentally done in the first mile. But I didn’t let that thought last long, I had to stick it out, I couldn’t give up yet. Until mile two, I felt off. My fuel belt was slipping and one of the bottles was leaking. My left knee was already stressing from the few smaller hills and I started to think I’d feel this way the entire race. Soon enough I got my belt into the perfect position, just seconds before the first water stop. I grabbed a cup and noticed a familiar form running past me.

Lucky for me, my aunt was just feet from me, so I sped up and tapped her on the shoulder. My intention was to say hi, run a mile together and fall behind her quicker pace. Things didn’t go quite like that and we ended up running together until mile 10 or so. The miles in between were probably the toughest and most rewarding.

Miles 3-5 were quick. We kept up about a 9:00 minute pace and even had a chance to talk. At this point though, my left arch and knee where letting me know they were already getting tired. I could also feel a blister start on my right foot. I told her I may not finish the race, but I would hold on and see how I felt. Mile 6 came and went, and we were under an hour. The temperature was rising and shade was minimal. I had taken advantage of some Gu, all of the water stops, and my water/nuun combo I had in my fuel belt. By the time mile 8 rolled around, I was in shock with how quick the race was flying by. We were a little slower, but still bounced around a 9:30 pace. Not bad, considering everything that wasn’t on our side that day.

Mile 9 has always been my check point. If I’m over 1:30 I know I’m in poor shape, if I’m under 1:30, I better hold onto what ever I have and just run with it. We came in under and started counting down the miles. Running was getting harder, our pace was slowing at points, but we still kept going. Until the hill. This was new and I was a little hesitant on the down hill part, because when you go down, you have to get back up. I looked up and everything was in slow motion. No one was running, everyone was moving at a snail’s pace to get up there. So I shuffled as slow as I could, only to hear two phrases that sent chills up  my back. The man left to me yelled out “I think I tore my Achilles” Ouch, I could feel his pain. Then the lady next to me yelled out, “Call 911” I turned around and saw a gentleman pass out. Everyone was pretty much in a panic and just wanted to get to stable ground again.

Mile 10, just a 5k to go. I checked my watch and I was at 1:35, still at a good pace but I knew that one last bridge was ahead of me before I was home free. Half way on the bridge, my aunt told me to go on without her. She wasn’t feeling her best and didn’t want to hold me back. I felt bad, I was in her same shoes last year at the same exact point on the bridge. So here I was, alone for the last 2.5 miles, it was either fade into the crowd and coast in or see if I could keep this pace for the rest of the race.

A lot of thoughts went through my mind in these last miles. I quickly did the math and knew that I would be finishing in under 2:10. I wanted to keep my pace, I wanted to finish strong. This was the first race that I didn’t rely on my watch or iPod, I just ran. I spent a majority of the race not stressing about time or where I should be with my pace. I was like everyone else, making my way through, hoping to cross the finish line. A mile to go, and I was under the 2:00 mark. I wanted to quicken my steps, but I knew I could easily ruin everything I worked for if I went in too strong. Following everyone ahead of me, I knew we were getting close, I recognized some of the streets and that final turn would be any second. And it was there. The sun was shining, the crowds were cheering and I could taste the finish line. With less than a quarter mile to go I saw my uncle. I sprinted up to give him a high five and told him my aunt was on her way.  This was exactly the encouragement I needed. The winding finish felt like it would never end. I kept checking my watch thinking that seconds were flying by. In those moments, I wanted a number, I needed that number. I was suddenly on the heels of a PR.

PR Party

Crossing the line was surreal, emotional and unbelievable. A year ago I was finishing my first half. In the same place that it started, I ran a new PR. Looking back, I honestly don’t know how it happened. I am not a heat runner at all, I struggled the day before in a 5k. All I can think of is that I had the motivation of running for Team JDRF on my mind and the support of my aunt along the way. We both had low points, but we needed each other. Neither one of us would have made it if we ran it alone.

Race partners

So here I am, my second shot at Cleveland, and a completely different experience. Not only did I experience my first half here, but I ran my best half under crazy conditions. I find it bittersweet. As much as I’ve loved my Cleveland Experience, I knew it would be my last CLE half for a while. I love everything about Cleveland Marathon weekend, but my love for Green Bay wins this next round. Instead of lining of outside Brown’s Stadium next year, I’ll be outside the greatest place on Earth, Lambeau. Thanks Cleveland, for giving me my first and best.

Results:

Official Time: 2:05:55-PR!

Overall: 2593 / 14635

Gender: 1045 / 8262

AG: 139 / 898

Half number seven, The Cleveland Half Marathon

Lucky Number Seven

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A year ago today, I ran my first half marathon. On Sunday I’ll be running my 7th, right back where it started, in Cleveland. This time around is a lot different. I’m not terrified or concerned I won’t make it to the finish. I’m relaxed, in control of my running, and most importantly, running it for a reason.

A lot has changed in the past year. I find that running 13.1 miles is comforting, almost the perfect distance. I’ve learned how to better pace myself throughout a race and how to control my breathing. I’ve tried new things, like Gu and Nuun, wearing a race belt, and using compression gear. I’ve gotten the hang of running a half marathon, and now I’m on my way to getting better and faster. So what do I expect come Sunday?

No goals. This race isn’t for me, I’m not trying to get a PR or take revenge on last year’s race. I’m running it for Team JDRF and everyone affected by Type 1 Diabetes. I just want to go out there and run. I ran about 3 days in the past two weeks to let my body recover and get over the nagging pain in my knee. I’m not expecting to wow myself out there. I want to enjoy it, I want to take it all in. I want to have fun.

But… I can’t help but have a competitive side, so of course I want to beat last year’s time of 2:15:47. And it would be even better if I got down to my current PR or better. However, the weather isn’t looking ideal for Sunday and I’m not ready for heat just yet. But overall, I’m ready to run Cleveland again. I love this city and everything about it.

Platte River Training: Week 10

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Running is such a mental sport, and this week my mind was put to the test. I was lucky enough to get three runs in outside, something I’ve been craving now that its not completely dark outside when I get home from work. I used to semi enjoy the treadmill and could manage running on it every night, but I’ve mentally checked out of it. I can barely run 3 miles without getting bored, I feel like I’m not even moving.

Regardless of my endless fight with the treadmill, when my legs hit the pavement I’m running at a pace that creeps towards 9 minute mile pace. This is such  an amazing feeling. I’ve been stuck in my pace of 10 minute miles forever. Now I know my training is really paying off. I especially noticed this on Tuesday when I somehow found myself at 8:45 pace! I forgot I could even run this quick, and it gave me a glimmer of hope that one day I may find my old college friend, 7:30 pace.

For the most part, this week went well. I was under 10 minute pace for two full runs and half of my long run. I didn’t have any pain in my arch until Sunday, and I didn’t need to use tape. Thursday was my treadmill downer day, but I’m determined to get through the rest of the few treadmill runs I’ll have to do. Sunday was my biggest challenge. I knew I had to do 11, and after last week’s long run, I wanted to make this one better. The first half was great, I had a 9:10 pace (probably too fast for the distance) and the snow wasn’t too bad. About half way in, I started feeling dehydrated and thirsty, Gu helped, but I was pretty sure I was going to get sick a few times. I kept telling myself that this is probably what Colorado will feel like, but worse. If I can mentally push through these few rough workouts I can definitely enjoy those easy long runs….someday.

Monday: Rest

Tuesday: 3.86 Miles

Wednesday: Rest

Thursday: 2 Miles

Friday: Rest

Saturday: 3.56 Miles

Sunday: 10.84 Miles

This week is race week! Saturday is St.Malachi, my first race of the year. I’m a little nervous, because I haven’t raced a 5 miler in years, and I’ve heard it’s a tough course. Hope it’s fun!

And don’t forget I’m running for Team JDRF  for the Cleveland half marathon this year. My race is dedicated to those who are affected by Type 1 Diabetes.

Training times four

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After six weeks of preparation for the Platte River Half, I’m finally to the point in my schedule where I’m training for four half marathons at once. My main focus has been on my Colorado trip, only because this is the first half of the year. But, I’ve been keeping the rest of the races in the back of my mind. Besides, none of them would be possible without any of this preparation. So here are my training schedules for the next three half marathons after Colorado, all of which are a continuation of Platte River training.

Earth Day Half Marathon-April 22nd

Week Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
(April 16) 4 Miles Easy Rest 3 Miles Easy 4 Miles Easy Rest 2 Miles Easy 13.1

I’m really excited for this race for two reasons. It’s one week post Colorado, so after running in crazy altitude I should be in excellent shape 🙂 And it also happens to be on my birthday, my favorite day of the year! I’ve been looking forward to racing on my birthday since summer. To me the perfect way to celebrate my birthday is running 13.1 miles!

Cleveland Half Marathon-May 20th

Week Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
(April 23) 5 Miles Easy Rest 5 Miles Speed 4 Miles Easy Rest 10 M Rest
(April 30) 5 Miles Easy Rest 5 Miles Tempo 4 Miles Easy Rest 9 Miles Long Rest
(May 7) 5 Miles Easy Rest 6 Miles Tempo 4 Miles Easy Rest 9 Miles Long Rest
(May 14) Rest 3 Miles Easy 3 Miles Easy 4 Miles Easy Rest 2 Miles Easy 13.1

Just like many local runners I’ll be participating in the Cleveland Half again this year. I’m looking forward to enjoying the race instead of being a giant ball of nerves. Plus I’m running for Team JDRF, supporting the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. I’m not running this race for me, I’m running it for those affected by Diabetes.

Sunburst Half Marathon-June 2nd

Week Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
(May 21) 4 Miles Easy Rest 5 Miles Easy 4 Miles Easy Rest 8 Miles Long Rest
(May 28) Rest 3 Miles Easy 4 Miles Easy Rest 2 Miles Easy 13.1 Rest

My second out of state half and it will be on the beautiful grounds of the University of Notre Dame. Unfortunately the finish has been changed from ending inside the stadium. I still think this will be a good, flat race, and I’m excited to explore South Bend.

Compared to last year, it’s weird to think I’m training for four half marathons at once, all within a few weeks of each other. And even two weeks from now, I’ll be training for a fifth half. Knowing I’ll have a big race every couple of weekends can be a little overwhelming, and possibly tiring, but I know it will just make things go well in October for the full!

Just a few things

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While I’m in Canada, I wanted to fill you in a few fun things.

This past weekend we hit the slopes to enjoy the most recent snow storm. Last year I tried snowboarding and after remembering my large amount of falls, I wanted to try something easier and safer. So I decided that I’d spend a few hours skiing. I’ve never done downhill, but I grew up doing cross-country skiing, so I felt I kind of had an idea of what I was doing (not really). I took the beginners lesson so I wouldn’t completely embarrass myself. I definitely learned the basics and felt comfortable going down the easy hills. However, an 8-year-old in the group showed me up and was better than me the first time down, he also didn’t believe that I was in my mid-20’s so I had lost all faith from him. I spent a couple of hours on the easy slopes until Darren tricked me to try a harder one. Sorry buddy, it wasn’t easy and I pretty much had a panic attack on the top of the mountain.

Notice the harder hill I was tricked into

Somehow I made it down, secretly proud of myself that I could do it after just a few hours of learning, but didn’t want to try it again that day. I plan on going a few more times this year, and eventually investing in making it my winter sport. Of course nothing compares to running.

Skiing 101= Survival

Next up, I’m running Cleveland Half for a reason. I’ve decided that the Cleveland Half marathon will be dedicated to running for Team JDRF, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. My goal is to raise $500 by Cleveland to help support those who are looking to cure this disease. No surprise, the reason I’m doing this is for Darren, who was diagnosed with Diabetes when he was just 3 years old. I appreciate any donations and encourage you to learn more about Diabetes.

The final and maybe most exciting thing is….there are 3 more days until Columbus registration opens up! I haven’t even started training or planning for this, but I’m already getting excited, I can’t help but get goose bumps every time I think about it. 2012 is the year of races!