Run, Kincaid, Run!!

At North Mahaska the kids run laps for P.E.  They get shoes (paper mementos of their hard work) per so many laps.  And at the end of the year they find out how many miles they ran throughout the school year.  I'm a big fan of the program.  Running is the easiest form of exercise, requires no athletic talent (hence why I do it), and no equipment other than shoes (also a bonus).  Kincaid has enjoyed it.  Every Monday and Wednesday he gets off the bus and tells me how many laps he ran that day. 

Last weekend I ran the State Fairgrounds 5K.  Kincaid chose to do the Kid's Fun Run (really he just wanted the ribbon).  He was nervous before lining up (much like me), but found he loved it!  He loved Michael and me cheering him on, taking his picture, and praising him on a job well done.  I think he'll do more Kid's Runs in the future. 






This past Saturday he woke up wanting to go for a run with me.  He knows running is part of my daily routine.  So, after his afternoon nap we headed to town.  I was a little nervous at how far he'd make it before complaining about sore legs, being thirty, or hot.  He surprised me and didn't complain once.  I had to tell him to slow his pace!  His little legs were pounding out the pavement. 

We ran a little over a mile on our first run (it was dark).  We decided to make it our special time.  He wants to do it every Saturday.  I told him we could go on days he doesn't have P.E. too.  I loved the excitement in his voice.  I may have a new running partner yet! 

Now if only we could get Michael to join us.....

Black Dagger Brotherhood

I'm stepping away from blogging about running for one post... if you're lucky.

This summer I, like many women, found my 'inner goddess' through Fifty Shades of Grey.  I was grossly addicted to all three books for the two weeks it took me to read them.  The problem with a good book or series is it's almost a let down when I move on.  After I read the Twilight series, I had a hard time finding a book I liked as much.  Same thing after the Hunger Games Trilogy.  After Fifty Shades, I moved on to the Crossfire series.  Very good, however it isn't complete yet.  So, I preordered the next two books and moved onto my next series. 

Through a recommendation of a friend, I found myself back in the vampire world.  Only this isn't the young adult vampire world.  This is Twilight crossed with Fifty Shades.  Need I say more?

Come to find out Katie, my overly literate sister (actually Kim was too), had a jump start on me.  She's been reading them for years.  When I questioned her why she never introduced me to Wrath, Rhage, Vishous, Phury, Zsadist, Torhment, and many others, she thought they were to risque for me.  I laughed and I'm pretty sure she blushed or threw up. 

It's been two months and I'm on the seventh book.  Only three more and I'm caught up.  Running isn't the only thing that keeps me down to 6 hours of sleep a night.  Some books are better than others.  I'll refrain from explaining what makes some books better than others. 

Katie is proud.  Growing up I never was a reader.  As an adult, I can't read enough.  I even have the Nook app on my phone so I can read if I'm in road construction or unexpectedly waiting.  If I could read and run at the same time, I'd be up to marathon distance by now.  I'd never want to get off my treadmill. 

Now back to Rehvenge....  can't wait to see where his story takes me. 

Des Moines Half Marathon

 13 weeks exactly.

Almost 3 months to the day.  

Never would have guessed I'd be standing (barely) at the finish line to my first half marathon of the year. 

13 short weeks ago I was laying in a hospital bed after being ambulanced to the hospital for extreme hemorrhaging following the miscarriage of our twins two weeks earlier.  I vividly remember that day and the look on Michael's face.  I have never seen him that frightened.  I've never asked, but I think the thought of me never leaving the hospital alive may have crossed his mind.  I prefer to not know.

I knew there was only one thing that would pull me through the funk and depression that was coming.  RUNNING.  Within two days of my lets-spend-all-Sunday-in-the-ER-then-have-surgery-at-8:00 PM ordeal, I was walking.  By two weeks I started running again.

This half was my goal.  It was far enough out I had time to train, yet close enough I had to push and stay on our training schedule.  There was no time to wallow in self-pity.  It was 'get off your ass and get moving' time.  No matter how down I felt/feel, I always feel better after my endorphins kick in.  

I've found clarity when I'm at a cross-roads. 
It's my reason to get up in the morning (at 4:35 AM).  
It's passed the time required to let my body heal.
It's help define me as a person.




I have incredible partners.  We are there for the ups and downs of each others' lives.    


They are as responsible for my addiction to running as my fetish for new shoes (running gives me reasons to buy new shoes guilt-free).

We don't listen to music.  Only conversation.  When running 5 or 6 days a week, we don't have much left unsaid.  Our husbands would blush if they knew what we discussed.

Somedays they are the only other adult I talk to besides Michael.  He's thankful for the extra ears.
I look forward to many more years of running as we pound out the decades of our lives, one mile at a time. 

Last but not least.....

My parents are rock stars for coming to support.  Well, my dad was there to support.  My mom ran the 5K so she didn't have to wait the whole time.  I love they are a part of my running life.  It's great sharing experiences with my mom.  I know how much she loves it.  And, it was awesome bragging how she places at almost every race. 

Happy Anniversary!!!

This year was a big year/month for anniversaries in the Mitchell Family.  Mary and Leon celebrated 60 years of wedded bliss.  Not only is it amazing to have both spouses live long enough to see 60 years, but even more amazing to to stay together that long. 

Mary wanted family pictures taken.  The   last pictures were taken 10 years ago for their 50th.  I'd say it was about time.  I was overly impressed at how photos turned out.  Kincaid is a very photogenic kid :)  It's going to be hard to narrow down my purchase. 


That night we went out for a nice meal.  We got to hear stories and memories of their marriage and family.  Family is a top priority to Mary and Leon and the memories showed it.  

I took a few pics of my own. 

 Mike and Barb celebrated "40 freakin' years".  Barb's words, not mine.  We celebrated by spending the weekend at Honey Creek Resort.  All 4 of the kids and families, Mike & Barb, and Mary & Leon spent a wonderful weekend at the water park, around a fire, biking, eating, playing and running (ok, maybe just me). It was great spending so much time together.  That hardly ever happens unless it's a holiday.  It's fun to see the cousins play together.  They are lucky to have each other.   

Wendi and Brandon celebrated their 10th anniversary this month.  It's hard to believe because I remember when they first started dating.  I remember their wedding day very well too. 

Time really does fly.  In the word of Ferris Bueller "Life moves pretty fast.  If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it." 




Last but not least, Alison and Brandon celebrated their first year of marriage.  They are doing an incredible job of raising their 4 girls.


Family really truly is a gift.  

First fall race

Back in July Courtney asked if I'd run Park to Park with her.  We ran the half marathon race last year and loved it.  I said yes, as long as we did the 5K or the 10K.  There was no way I'd be ready for the half.  Over the next few weeks I pushed myself to be ready for the 10K, but also knowing I'd be walking part of it. 

Aaron (Courtney's husband), Emma (Courtney's 3-month old), and Michael came to cheer us on.  I love when Michael comes to watch me race.  I'd love if he were at the finish line every race, but I also know he has a life outside of my addiction. 

Courtney and I lined up at the start, not knowing we were in the wrong group.  The 10K was supposed to start 10 minutes later with the 5K.  Oops.  Michael text to let me know about a mile into it.  Oh well.  We were started and there was no stopping us.  The course is beautiful.  It's through a park so we were surrounded by trees and nature.  It's very peaceful.  Courtney and I carried on a conversation the whole time, mostly about how we felt silly starting too early.  Soon we were at the half-way point still feeling fantastic.  I knew I'd be able to finish without walking.

We finished strong.  Out of all my races, I feel like I accomplished the most with this one.  My body went through some pretty rough sh*t over the summer and I still came out of top.  I was still relishing in a runner's high two days later.  No joke. 


I've found my stride again.  And it feels euphoric. 

My dad the speed demon

August 26th I ran my first 5K in almost 5 months.  I wasn't as prepared as I usually am, but it fired up my competitive spirit.  No where to go but up from here.  I was a little nervous about running by myself so I asked my dad to run with me.  He agreed telling me that I'll be leaving him in the dust.

Not the case.

Within the first half mile he was almost out of sight.  I had to slow my pace if I wanted to run most of it.  I never did see him until the finish line when he was already cooled down and I was still huffing and puffing.

I love that both of my parents run.  My dad doesn't come by the exercise stuff as naturally as my mom does, but he's never afraid to lace up his running shoes, throw on some denim shorts, and get his heart pumping.  Yes, I said denim shorts.  He ran the 3.1 miles in 27:54 and placed 3rd in his age division... in jean shorts.  I'm sure more than one person (including me) chuckled about it.  But, that's my dad.  Farmer through and through.  I prefer the jeans shorts over the shorty shorts that some males wear that make me question how 'things' are being held in and fearing the worst. 

Thanks for running/leaving me in the dust, Dad.  Next time I will be keeping up.

**I'll add a few more pics from the race when my laptop and/or blogger aren't being dumb and uploads the pics correctly.    

Fartleks

Fartleks:
Not just a funny name... also an intense training workout. 

Courtney, Mallory, and I started a marathon training program.  Our target marathon is next May, so we have plenty of time to add mileage slowly.  Courtney found a 26-week training schedule online.  It takes the stance "Slow and steady finish the race".  Our first few weeks we don't run over 3 miles.  In comparison to the half marathon training I did last year, this is extremely relaxed.  After 4 months away from running, I need relaxed.  It's taken my body a while to find its stride.  But, I'm back and loving every minute. 

This morning's workout was fartleks.  Fartleks are intended to increase pace.  After a 5-minute warm-up, we did 4 cycles of 4 minute run/ 1 minute walk.  The 4 minute runs were tough.  We were grabbing our sides by the end.  The 1 minute recover felt closer to 15 seconds.  The fartleks were tough, so our 10 minute cool-down was easy in comparison.  Both Courtney and I had drenched our shirts and felt amazing.  I'm looking forward to next week when we repeat them!

This weekend Courtney and I are running a 10K.  We aren't up to 6.2 miles of running, but we'll do our best to run as much of it as possible.  Each race I run, I'm reminded how strong my competitive spirit is.  I get it from my mom! 

Holy Crap! A Kindergartener?!?!?

Kincaid started Kindergarten this year.  It's hard to believe he's ready for this milestone.

Wednesday morning he fell back into his routine that was established last year during 4-year-old preschool.  Alarm goes off at 6:10, gets dressed, eats breakfast, jabbers a million questions to Michael and me, brushes his teeth, combs his hair, shoes, bag, and coat on, feeds Bo, then waits for Denny (bus driver) to pick him up at 6:50.

He's excited to be riding the bus again.  I'm happy we made that transition last year.  This year brings it's own set of transitions... like no nap and no daycare.  He's still a little unsure of not going to Wendi's.  The only tears shed were for that reason.  Luckily Wendi is Michael's sister so he'll have the rest of his life to make more memories with her. 

So far school has gone well.  He loves his teacher and the kids in his class.  He gets to sit by his friend Anna, whom he has professed his love for.  He's excited to be back with his other friends too.  It's been a long summer away from them. 

His 5-yr-old signature

Kansas City vacation pictures.

The Mitchell's 2012

Sea Life Aquarium

Father and Son

Crowne Center

The weather was awesome!

My little man... pretty proud of him.

Lego Land

Beat after a day of Sea Life and Lego Land

Teaching Kincaid how to go across the monkey bars at the campground playground.

Day 2: Science City at Union Station

Freight House Bridge

Kincaid's favorite part of the day.  He loves model trains.

My awesome husband of 8 years.

Noah and Kincaid bonded quickly over Thomas the Train

Kincaid, Mila, Jack, and Sampson at snack time.

Amy and me at the balloon festival.  Spending time with her is what made the end of our vacation seem too fast. 

The boys at the balloon festival.  They were so good!! 

Our Kansas City vacation accommodations. 

S

Back from Vacation!!!

We're back from our extended weekend to Kansas City area!  It was so great!

It was the first real vacation we've taken just Michael, Kincaid, and I.  I don't know why we didn't do it sooner.  Maybe because Kincaid needed naps, had the occasional tantrums, we needed to take a bag everywhere we went, etc.  However, the kid was born to travel.  Michael always says he spent the first two years of his life in a carseat.  Sadly, he's right.  We drove a lot when he was little, which makes him a great traveler now. 

We packed up the Tundra and Dutchman and 6 1/2 hours, one major storm, and a stop at Sonic later, we were at our campground in Lawrence, KS. We didn't spend much time setting up as it was almost 10:00 and pitch black.  Good thing we did two trial runs with camping.  Michael & Kincaid have become experts.

Thursday we spent the day at Sea Life Aquarium, Lego Land, Crowne Center, and a little time at the campground.  It was fun to have our own schedule and go as we pleased.  Usually we do trips with my whole family.  10 adults plus kids means there has to be a schedule.
Friday we went to Union Station and Science City.  Also lots of fun.  Kincaid could have spent hours at the Model Train Experience.  We also took a tour of Olathe.  Michael showed us all his houses, his schools, and the basketball hoop he learned to play on.  I enjoyed it more than anyone.  I love knowing where he came from.  He couldn't believe how much everything has changed in the 15 years since he left.
Friday night we met up with our friends, the Helm's.  They have the cutest kids, EVER!  Noah (3) and Kincaid became fast friends.  Immediately they were playing with train sets and toys.  Mila (18 months) took a liking to Michael.  After more playing and eating, the kids went to bed.  Kincaid slept with Noah in the bunk beds (which he has now asked for).  The adults got to catch up and talk.  I could have stayed all night.
Saturday we went back to the Helm's for anther day of fun.  According to Michael, Amy made the best waffles he's ever had.  We took the kids to an awesome park where they played for a very long time.  After naps we went to a hot air balloon festival.  Though none of the balloons left the ground (rain was coming), it was still fun.  Kincaid's never seen a hot air balloon that close.  After the kids were in bed (the boys in the bunk bed again) the adults stayed up past 1:00 AM talking again!  That's a sign of true friends!

Sunday we packed up the camper and headed home.  Normally I look forward to getting back.  This time I wished we could have spent more time.  It was awesome getting to be just the three of us, but then also spend time with great friends.  It was the perfect balance. 

Now it's the Helm's turn to come north!  Kincaid can show Noah everything he knows about farming.  I look forward to being with them again soon!  (That's a hint for Amy). 

I'll post pics soon. 

Annual Celebration

Three years ago today my sister Kim lost her battle with colon cancer.  Every year on the first weekend in August Katie and I get together to celebrate her life.  We've done something new each year... something we know Kim would have loved.  On Kim and Courtney's 1st Anniversary we camped as a family.  So, this year we tried camping again. 

Katie, Rob, and Zeke journeyed down to Lake Red Rock.  We had a great, relaxing weekend of wiggle cars, hobo pies, s'mores, walking, wrestling in the tent, and tattoos.  The boys ran and played all weekend.  They even found girlfriends from the neighboring campsite.  Kim would have loved it, loved watching the cousins play, loved eating over the campfire. 

I miss her everyday.  We spent countless hours on the phone during the week and were together most weekends.  No matter how many miles were between us, we'd always find a way to come together.  I have a hole that cannot be filled.  Katie and I do our best to remember and celebrate her. 

She will always be my sister and our trifecta will always be minus one.  Katie and I love you, Kim. 

New Adventure

For summer vacation Kincaid wanted to go camping.  So, we are trying something new.  We borrowed a camper from some friends and will go for a test run this weekend before we head out on vacation.  I'm a little nervous. 

I camped as a kid when my parents did all the work and Kim, Katie, Kris, and I got to play and run around.  Now I'm the parent and need to plan out meals and everything that goes along with camping.  I'll let Michael do the mechanical stuff, like set up the camper. 

I'm ready for a new adventure and a change of scenery.  The best part is we're doing it as a family.  Who knows, we may love it and decide camping is for us... or we may decide once is enough. 

A few Kincaid quotes...

"When we get home I'm going to put my stinky Keens in the freezer to make them not stink any more." 

"Grandma is making onions for lunch."

Kincaid: "What did we get Dad for his birthday?"
Me: "Shoes and sandals."
Kincaid: "But no toy?" 

Switching Gears

When I started this blog, my intention was to document my journey to completing a marathon.  Since January, many things have changed.  Life has taken me (and Michael and Kincaid) is a new direction.  So, I'm taking my blog in a new direction too.  I'm going to blog about something way more interesting... my family. 

Of course I gotta put in a blip about my two favorite men...

It's no secret how much I love Michael.  He has been my support and my rock through the worst times of my life.  He was there when my sister Kim battled, then lost her battle to cancer.  He knew my focus was elsewhere and was there to pick up the slack, then pick up the pieces.  He gave selflessly.
In the 3 years since, he has been the best husband imaginable.  We have had a few trials of our own.  We have always had a common goal and pulled through them together.  I never knew how truly strong we were until this past weekend.  Michael was more of a man than I've ever seen.  He was there, calm, cool, and collected when I was falling to pieces all over again.  I will spend the rest of my lifetime showing him how much I love him.  I thank God for bringing him into my life. 

Kincaid continues to amaze and humor us.  He starts Kindergarten in August.  How did he go from a 6 lb 6 oz baby to this?  He's incredibly independent.  I love that about him.  He rarely gets in trouble because he knows his limits.  I think he's the perfect combination of Michael and me.  I'll add of few of his one-liners.  We'll see if they make you laugh as they do us. 

I may slip in a few running entries from time to time.  I'm cutting back on the races.  The only one I have on the horizon is the Color Run in October.  More time should/will be spent as a family.  I'm looking forward to it.   

Back In The Saddle

It has been a while since I blogged... no excuses.  I'll vow to do better. 

I recently took a three month break from running.  It was killer.  I was the support crew for a few races.  I would much rather be running than watching.  I also walked at least three races.  Also not a fan.  My competitive spirit came out and I couldn't believe I was letting so many people pass me.  Runners I knew I could beat. 

Today I got back on the horse.  I went for a short run/walk.  I couldn't believe how fast my body got out of shape.  It was only three short months ago I could pound out 5 miles with ease.  Why does it take so long to get in shape, but no time to get out of shape? 

I've thought about the many reasons I love to run and exercise.  The most obvious is being able to fit into one size smaller jeans.  Has that really happened?  No.  But, I'm happy when I can dry the ones I already have.  Another reason is genetics.  I look at my parents, grandparents, pretty much anyone I share genetics with.  I know what can/will happen if I don't take care of my body.  I don't come from a long line of model-thin people like Michael.  I want to keep my heart, lungs, etc in top-notch condition.  My parents are doing a great job of that.  They are both in excellent shape.  I love that they can keep up with all their grandkids.
The MOST important reason is for my mental/emotional state.  After a very tough weekend, today's walk/run (no matter how short and hard it was) was worth every breath-panting minute.  I needed the release of endorphins.  It does more for me than any pill could do.  Whenever I have a day I would rather go to bed early, or read a few more pages in a book, or clean up whatever the latest house mess is, Michael always encourages me to run instead.  He knows what even a short 30-minute run will do for me. 

I'm glad I'm back at it... and hopefully the miles will get easier.   

No marathon in May

My goal of running the Med City Marathon has been dashed... at least for this year.  With all the time I took off for my hip injury, I won't be ready to run the full 26.2 miles.  I have no doubts I could run/walk it, but that isn't my style.  If I'm going to do it, I want to train and do my very best.  However, that doesn't mean I won't run the half marathon.  I have 5 weeks to feel comfortable running 13.1 miles.  Easy peasy as long as I get my long runs in on the weekends. 

I'm extremely disappointed, but letting my hip heal was way more important.  I want to be a life-long runner.  I read so many stories of people who struggle their whole running career.  I'd rather enjoy my runs than run in agony. 

I have many more chances to run a marathon.  I haven't given up on the goal.  It just won't be this spring.  The Des Moines Marathon is only  5+ months away.  Plenty of time to ease back into training and this time without a debilitating injury. 

New PR!!!!!

April race... check!!!
Gene Van Wyk Memorial 5K Run
Pella, IA
Mallory and I had a free Saturday morning so we decided "What the heck?" I ran it last year and knew it was an easy route. Plus, I was headed to Easter right after and knew I'd consume majority of Kincaid's candy.

My goal was to break 26 minutes. I wasn't too far off last week and I did not push that hard. The weather was about the same (cold), but there were a lot less people. Starting closer to the front and having to dodge around less people makes a difference.

At mile one I was at 8:06. I wasn't sure I could hold out that pace the rest of the two miles. But, I figured it was only two more miles and if I slowed down I should still be able to break 26:00. Upon entering the Pella Christian track, the goal of not only beating 26 minutes, but also hitting a new personal record, was in sight.

24:14!!! 40 seconds better than my last record.

I had to sit down while a volunteer took off my timing chip. The feeling of yakking was looming. But, it luckily passed and I basked in the glory of running my hardest.

Thanks to Mallory for running with me!

March race... check

One of my goals was to run at least one race every month. Saturday, March 31st I checked March off my list. Nothing like waiting until the last day. Katie, Mom, and I ran the April Fool's 5K in Waterloo at George Wyth State Park.

Runners are encouraged to dress up in costumes since it's for April Fool's. Last year Jentri, Jill and I wore tutus. This year Katie, Mom, and I were going to be fairies. Somehow fairies evolved into a butterfly, bumblebee, and ladybug. It was fun and totally up my alley... I'm an entomologist after all. Katie floated like a butterfly to her PR. And, Mom stung like a bee by taking 1st place in her age division... again.

I've done many races at this park and love it. It's beautiful scenery. Trekman Racing hosts the event and does a great job. It's very organized and has great perks. The food afterwards is amazing... bagels from Panera, pizza, fruit, and cupcakes from Scratch bakery!! It doesn't get any better than that.

The race was capped at 1,000 people. I ran this race in 2006 with little over 200 people. It's amazing how large it has gotten. I'm hoping that is a trend everywhere... that people are exercising more and finding way to motivate themselves. There's definitely a sense of camaraderie when you're racing with 800+ people.

Kudos to Katie for pushing herself to near yakking. She may not have felt great for a short time, but hitting a PR is worth it.

BTW... When I packed I thought the temp was going to be closer to 60. 45 degrees was a little cold in capris and t-shirt. Luckily I had my Columbia fleece otherwise I would have froze for sure.

Now onto April......

Yet another running partner

I've talked about my many running partners in previous posts. They are all awesome and I love running with each of them. Yesterday I found yet another partner. Bo, our German Shorthair.

We've had problems in the past with Bo chewing up toys, packages, fishing rods, boots, etc. It's probably because he's bored. For the first few months we had him, he stayed in our yard. Slowly he started to venture further and further. Our neighbors would call saying he was at their house. Michael would go load him up, bring him home, then he'd run down there again. We were getting frustrated. What to do? The last straw was when he killed a neighbor's chicken. We knew he couldn't be trusted. So, we put invisible fencing in our yard. The bad part about our yard is there's nothing for him to do. He has become an excellent butterfly and bumble bee hunter. He needs more exercise... which is kind of my specialty.

Michael has asked if I'll start walking/running with Bo. Bo hasn't gone through obedience classes so I have been hesitant. I knew he'd catch a whiff of some bird and want to take off. Yesterday I finally decided to try it.

The first mile was rough. I did a lot of pulling to keep him on the road. There were a few times he wanted to drag me. But, the last three miles were better. He figured out what we were doing. My hope is that he improves each time and will be a consistent partner.

My next challenge is getting Michael to go with us.

New toy... kinda.

I have stepped out of the Blackberry world and into the realm of the iPhone. Honestly, the only reason I did was because it was the only touchscreen phone small enough to fit in my running armband and in the pocket of my jeans. Yes, that is seriously how I made my phone choice. The guys at the cell store told me I didn't have to wear tight jeans, which face it, that's why I run in the first place.

One fateful Friday my Garmin did not want to cooperate. It didn't even do as much as turn on. If you've ever run with a GPS, you know how addicting they are. Mine is a hand-me-down from my mom. I knew the day would come when it could not be revived. I figured that day had come. During the run I was thinking how/when I could get it replaced. Why spend my own money when Michael could spend his on a birthday gift for me? But, what would I do to get me by?

This is where the iPhone enters the picture. I loaded the iMapMyRun app just to see if I liked it as well as the Garmin. It is awesome! Not only does it log distance and pace, but I can log my food, water, etc. I find it very useful. The one downfall is that it's in my armband. I can't flip my wrist to see how far I've run or my pace.

Follow up on the hip.... It's still not completely healed. I feel pain when I run and a little after runs. It's better than it was, but definitely not 100%. I debate constantly if I should push through to run the marathon the end of May, or relax a little and train for a marathon later in the year. I've heard many horror stories about people destroying their bodies while training for this distance. I don't think I'm ready for that. I want to be a life-long runner. I take it one week at a time. Unfortunately I'm down to crunch time and don't have the luxury of dilly-dallying.

On The Mend

After two and a half weeks of cutting back and babying my hip, I'm finally back at it. I'll fall back into my marathon training as long as the injury doesn't flare up again.

I went to the chiropractor three times last week. I could tell a huge difference just after the first treatment. By Friday I was walking with little pain. I did the exercises he suggested, along with ones my friend Kerri told me to do. If it prevents me from having the same issue, I'll continue to do the exercises until I'm too old to get myself up off the floor. I also ice my hip at least once a day. So far it seems to be working.

Tonight Amber and I ran a killer 6 miles. Anything that includes that many intense hills should count double. This weekend I'm planning to run 10 miles with Katie at the cabin. With this nice of weather, especially in March, I see no reason to get on my treadmill.

In between runs I've been trying to rest, which is not easy. I was running 6 days a week and no less than 4 miles. Now I'm backing it down to 4 days a week. Yesterday Kincaid rode his bike while I walked 4 miles. I am thankful he pedalled his little bike. I would have ran just to get done. He was a trooper and should get lots of credit. He'll wear his training wheels off before he learns to ride at this rate. I see a future RAGBRAI-er.

Injury

I'm experiencing my first running-induced injury. Not fun. I've heard and read of people with major injuries, but I secretly thought to myself "How bad can it really be? Can't they just work through the pain?" Karma has bitten me in the ass.

Last Monday after my treadmill run I sat in my office chair, legs folded under me, and worked on my laptop. When I got up, I noticed a nagging pain on my left hip. So, naturally I thought I could run it out. Tuesday and Wednesday I did the same treadmill run followed but sitting in my chair with legs curled. I also made a trip to Des Moines each of those days. I had no idea how much my natural way of sitting was hurting me.

Thursday through Saturday I took off from running. I thought if I rested it, that may help. The pain was still there. I thought for sure the stairs on Sunday's climb would cripple me. It wasn't any worse than before. So, Monday Amber and I ran a killer 5 miles. I worked through the pain and felt okay at the end. By the time I drove 15 minutes home, I could barely walk. I was now ready to see a doctor.

Today I went to the chiropractor. He found my hip bones were way off. My right hip was rotated forward and my left was rotated backwards. When I was sitting with my legs folded under me or leaning off to one side that was stretching and straining muscles. Also, the bones in my knees were not aligned. The cause was partially due to all the treadmill running and partially because of how I strain my muscles when I sit. Even as I type this, I'm itching to fold my legs up or lean to one side.

Now I'm in the routine of icing it, sitting on an exercise ball, doing a few stretches and exercises, and visiting the chiropractor a few times a week. I can't run for a few days. If I weren't in the middle of training I probably wouldn't listen as well, but the marathon is only a few months away.

Moral of the story: Don't tempt Karma.

Fight For Air Climb

This past Sunday I tackled and conquered another challenge... The Fight For Air Climb for the American Lung Association. It was a great experience and I can't wait for next year!

Kerri Bishop, Megan Allen, and myself scaled up 66 quad-exploding, lung-burning floors divided among three buildings (The Hub Tower, The EMC building, and Downtown Marriott). Sure I can run miles and miles, but hiking up stairs is different. My legs aren't used to that type of a workout. I was pleasantly surprised that my body didn't disappoint. Next year's goal is to beat my time for all three buildings.

I love that two of my closest friends are willing to accept whatever crazy physical challenge crosses my brain. This one was actually Kerri's idea. When we had the choice of doing one building or all three, we HAD to do all three. If you want bragging rights, you gotta go all the way.

So what's next on our list of challenges? The Iowa Sport's Foundation Mud Run, Warrior Dash, RAGBRAI, and anything else that seems a little out of our comfort zone. Since we did the mud run last year, our challenge is to get as muddy as possible. We shouldn't be recognizable by the end.

It's all downhill from here.

14 MILES!!!!! This is the longest distance I have ever run. I'm feeling pretty awesome, minus the stiff legs, sore feet, and just being exhausted. I ran on my treadmill since I'm a wuss when it comes to cold and wind. Yesterday's run with Amber was enough to send me into hibernation. At one point it felt like neither of us were moving.

This run was the tipping point. I'm over the hump and on the downhill. My mileage left to add is shorter than the mileage I've already run. During training for every new distance, the 'tipping' run has been crucial. My thought process changes and the runs get easier. I'm done with the uphill climb. As Kerri, Megan, and Amber know, I LOVE hills. But, when it comes to training mileage, I prefer the descent.

Majority of the population aren't fans of the treadmill. However, I love mine. 3 years ago, after much begging, Michael finally bought me one for Christmas. I had to prove to him I'd use it because that was his excuse. "People never use them" is what I heard over and over. I'm sure he knew that would push me to use it more. I cannot even begin to guess how many miles I've put on it. Hopefully enough that when this one conks out, there won't be a battle to get a new one. He knows my sanity has a direct correlation to my treadmill and running.

However much I love to run on my treadmill, I couldn't do it without music. Last year I bought a Bose iPod dock. Best gift I've ever bought Michael (which coincidentally I use more than him). I blast my running playlist from warm-up to cool-down stretch. I don't have typical songs on that list. Most take me to a specific moment or make me think of a specific person. When my brain is so busy thinking of other things, the miles fly by.

Next weeks killer won't be the 15 miles I'm supposed to run. It'll be the 66 flights of stairs I'll be climbing for the Fight For Air Climb. My quads are already screaming.

Twinge of jealousy

This past weekend we celebrated my nephew Zeke's 2nd birthday in Maple Grove, MN. It's a northwest suburb of Minneapolis. As always, I was very excited to spend time with my family.

Saturday morning Katie and I bared the 18 degree temp and ran 6 miles. Friday (and being in southern Iowa) tricked me into thinking it was going to be warmer than it was. With a little debate about running in the dome or around the lake, we decided that distance would be easier outside.

During our run Katie was telling me about the extensive trail system Maple Grove and surrounding suburbs have. I was immediately stricken with jealousy. As much as I love living in New Sharon, running multiple loops around town has lost its luster. Up there I could do my long runs without ever seeing the same house or street twice.

When I get to the 20+ mile runs I may be making a trip to visit my favorite sister. It would be worth the 10 hours in my truck to pound out my long runs. It would definitely stave off boredom and I'd get to spend more time with my best friend.

The pic was taken right after our run. My camera was fogged over from being in my truck all night. Our hair looks so stylish from being shoved under a cap for an hour.

Mantras

As a subscriber to Runner's World, I've read several articles about mantras. I've never really been a believer in them. How much can a couple of words help? Can repeating the same phrase over and over really make a difference? A lot and Yes.

There is one thing I know for certain about my running style... I'm a terrible pacer. I run at the pace of whoever I am with. When I'm by myself I have to set my treadmill or check my Garmin to make sure I'm at a pace I can sustain for a given distance. But the same rules don't apply while racing. I have to give it my all the entire distance. I aim to experience that 10 second window of potential vomiting.

While trying to ward off hypothermia during my last race, the light bulb came on. I was repeating the same words over and over without realizing it. "Never quit pushing. Never quit passing." And my mantra was born. (It's also my mantra while driving, hence the multiple speeding tickets and horrible gas mileage.)

During races I chase the person in front of me. When I pass them I chase the next person. I never want to quit pushing or passing. That's my race pacing strategy. Last year I hit all new PR's and this year is off to a great start.

I'm now a believer in runners finding those magic words that help break through the mental and physical barriers we all experience from time to time.

Race #2

I successfully completed my second race of 2012!

As I've progressed into February, I have conjured up more running goals. One is to run at least one race every month. This goal is one of few reasons I chose to wake up at 5:00 on Saturday morning after only 4 1/2 hours of sleep to run in 5 degree temps (wind chill was below 0). When a friend called me a lunatic, I had to agree. BUT, I was not the only lunatic. 1,669 other lunatics braved the frigid Iowa weather and completed Red Flannel Run 3-mile or 5-mile race.

It wasn't my 5-mile PR, but I was still happy with my 43:22 finish time. I placed 19th in my age division and 118th overall for women.

As I was preparing at midnight on Friday, I was debating on how many layers to pile on. Were tights enough? How many shirts? In the end I wore two layers of pants and four (yes, 4!) layers of shirts. It was not intentional. I had nowhere else to store my new race t-shirt, so I layered it on. The first mile I was chilly, but when I crossed the finish line I had sweat through my tights, thermal running shirt and first race tee. My hair was completely soaked under my fleece hat. I'm hoping this is the coldest race I run this year. But in case it isn't, I know I've done it before and survived to tell the tale... and without frostbite.

Hobby or Addiction?

You know you're a runner when...

• you frequently get asked "When's your next race?"


• One of the first things people ask you when they haven't seen you in a while is "What race are you training for now?"


• you always have your next race on the calendar.

These are most of my race bibs. There are a few missing. I hope to fill up another large section of wall this year.

At what point does running cross the line from hobby to addiction?

I had this thought the other night after registering for 3 different races. Has running become an addiction? Hmmmm.... I'm still leaning towards hobby. One that is beneficial to my health. On days I wake up at 4:30 AM it's my nutty hobby. On days I'm wound tight, it's my stress-relieving hobby. And some days it's my how-hard-can-I-push-my-body hobby.

I'll admit I get antsy if I go more than a day without running. Is my body addicted to the exersion of energy? Or is it my brain telling me I need to stay on track to achieve my goals? I'd say it's both. Mind and body have to work together.

My sister Katie committed to doing a half marathon with me in April. She hadn't fallen into a good exercise routine since Ezekiel was born, but once the goal was set she fully engaged. Now two consecutive days without running drives her nuts. She knows she only has a little over 11 weeks to push her body further than she's ever ran before.

When racing plays a role in weekly runs, running becomes a competitive hobby. When running becomes a daily necessity to make it through the day, it's an addiction. I'm definitely the former.

So, you won't be seeing me on an episode of Intervention. But, you may see me at the starting line of a race. I'm always looking for my next race and someone to run it with!

Lessons Learned

Kincaid knows when I'm wearing my running tights or shorts it means one thing... "Are you going runnin', Mom?"

As a parent, I hope we are teaching Kincaid healthy lifestyle choices. I consider us extremely lucky that he has Michael's eating habits instead of mine. Dessert to Kincaid is an apple. When given the choice of carrots or a cookie, the carrots win every time. He will eat just about anything we put in front of him. Though he will utter the occasional "It's not my favorite" he knows he still has to eat it.

He's also like Michael in that he'll try anything once. The other day Michael made this *disgusting* salmon and oyster casserole thing. The smell about made me vomit. Even knowing how good salmon is for runners, I couldn't bring myself to be in the same room as it. Not Kincaid. The kid snarfed it down like I would chocolate cake.

He tells us often "You know why I eat so much food? It's 'cause I'm gonna get as big as Dad." If that's true, then he definitely needs to stick to his awesome eating.

But, not only is Kincaid a great and healthy eater, he also likes to exercise. He is constantly asking if we can go on a bike ride or go to the park. When the weather is nice, we walk/run down to Mary and Leon's instead of driving.

At home he likes to 'exercise' on my treadmill or with the small free weights. He'll join in when Michael's doing P90X or Insanity.

I'm hoping he keeps it up through adulthood.

Added note: Yes, he wears his Santa pajamas all year round.

That makes me think back to my childhood. My mom exercised my entire life. When I was a kid, she walked everyday. Now she walks, runs, bikes, lifts weights, and does the elliptical and water aerobics. She never misses a day unless she's too sick to get out of bed.

But not only is my mom the queen of exercise, she's a healthy eater. Sure she has cookies and bars in the freezer for Dad, Grandpa Jacob, and Kris, but she doesn't eat them. She'll eat an apple or banana instead. She made balanced meals for us growing up. Rarely did we eat out and it was even more rare to eat fast food.

Though Katie, Kris and I haven't been as disciplined as adults as she is, we know the importance of physical exercise and healthy eating. It's been bred into us. With heart disease, osteoporosis, diabetes and other health issue in our genetics, we have to fight to beat the odds.

Thanks, Mom, for teaching us healthy lifestyle choices. We will do our best to teach our children the same things you've taught us. Lessons learned.

I'd like to give my dad credit for my lack of willpower when it comes to sweets. I also choose the cookies and bars over an apple. Now if only I had his natural slenderness I wouldn't have to run so much :)

Seriously!?!

I was feeling pretty great about my time for Saturday's run. I was feeling even better when I came in 8th for women. A top 10 finish isn't too shabby. But, some of the excitement was depleted when I still placed 6th in my age group. Only 2 of the women to finish before me were in another division.

The last two years I've raced in the 30-34 or 30-39 division. I swear it is the most competitive. In many other divisions I could have placed top 3, but in mine I'm double digits.

I could take the time to analyze why that is, but instead I'll work on fartleks and hill training. I only have 3-8 more years until I'm in an easier division. That may be the highlight of my 40th birthday.

I'd like to welcome Katie to the major leagues. Push 'til you vomit. Even then we're not guaranteed a medal.

Partners

With the insanely nice (and unusual) January weather, I've found someone to run with almost everyday. I am extremely grateful for #1) outside scenery instead of the orange wall and #2) the time with friends. Which leads me to the post for today... Partners.

I have been lucky and found great partners since I started running in 2005. Jill Klein was my first buddy. She taught a 'Couch to 5K' class in Waverly. Who knew 7 years later I'd be running and loving it more than ever. I had just started running with another friend, Heidi Wirtz, when I got pregnant and went on running hiatus. For the next 4 years I lost my groove and partners. Having a baby, moving, working, etc. gave me plenty of excuses. I would run here and there, but nothing consistent and I didn't find the enjoyment in it I once had.

Jentri Haworth saved me from my running dulldrums. We started running 3-4 days a week. Her waiting and depending on me to show up was the motivation and consistency I needed. Once people find out you're a 'runner', they are interested in joining you for runs or races.

I have ran with more than 15 different partners. In some cases, running is what kicked off our friendship. In other cases, I've known them my whole life (Katie and Mom). Either way, I appreciate the time I've gotten to spend with all of them. I want to give a shout out to you, my fellow pavement pounders. Without you I wouldn't have the love for running I experience on a daily/weekly basis.

Here are just a few of my partners...

I'm also giving Michael credit for the one time he ran 3.5 miles down to the highway and back with me. With a little encouragement, maybe he'll do it again ;)