When 58 seconds is more than 13 minutes

It's been a full week since I ran Maui Oceanfront. The toilet doesn't seem so low, the stairs don't seem so steep, and I'm an entire toenail lighter. 

I'm done receiving 'likes' and 'favorites', and my friends have stopped texting about how awesome running a marathon is. To which I always reply, you don't have to be smart to run. 

So here I sit, me and my Post Race Depression (PRD). It's the craziest thing, I didn't even train very long for this marathon, two and a half months to be exact. And I hired a coach so it was really easy, and besides running, took little effort on my end. So why am I so bummed? I pushed a human out of my body and within the year, made that same body run 26.2 miles. In 4 hours. Without an epidural. That shit's badass. 

But I'm not happy. I really, REALLY wanted my time to have a three in the front. 3:59:59 would have made me so proud! 

I ran a 4:00:57. My fastest previous time was a 4:13:47 which means I cut 13 minutes off my time. Baller! Except I don't feel like that. I'm so hung up on 58 seconds that I can't see how awesome 13 minutes is. Heck, my first marathon was a 4:50! Which should make me feel awesome except I always feel the need to qualify that time by interjecting that, 'it was the year they cancelled Chicago so yeah, it was hot'. Like anyone cares and like 90% of the population even knows the difference.  

So every day for the past week I stare at my time, hoping that magically, it'll change. I read and reread my splits. Willing them to be faster. Remembering the course and different spots I could have picked up 20 seconds. Or 5. Going over the race and wondering how it could have been different. 

But it doesn't change. No matter how long or hard I stare, 4:00:57 stares back. And this is why 58 seconds is longer than 13 minutes. It's lasted a week longer than if I had run a 3:59:59. 

And maybe that's why I run? I run because it's fun and (though I need to keep reminding myself) 58 seconds isn't that big of a deal, it's closer to my goal than I've ever been and a hell of a lot closer than when I started. Running isn't based on one singular race, nor should it be. Running is the culmination of the heart and soul you put into your training, the sacrifices you make to prove you have what it takes. It's the couch to 5k program you sign up for or the Disney Dopey Challenge you complete, it's the friends you make and the swag you earn. It's not one race or one time, it's a lifestyle. 

And, as we all know, the best way to kick PRD is to sign up for another race. Any thoughts?!! 

           Got some cross training in! 

    Girl after my own heart😍

Maui Oceanfront Marathon or MOM

I'm not sure if it was the 13 min PR or running in paradise but, Maui Oceanfront Marathon (MOM) is one of my favorite races. The whales at mile 14 pretty much solidified that. 

The cool thing about MOM are all the different running options and the fluidity of your registration and ease of changing events. Big thumbs up to the race director. He provides;

Point to point:

Early start marathon (4:30am)

Marathon (5:30)

15k

Out and back:

Half, 10k, 5k (some time, not 5:30, but I didn't look because I didn't really care)

Two days of packet pick up, one in each of the populated areas in Maui so that made it super easy to get. Nothing fancy but, you're on Maui, why do you want to waste time indoors at an Expo? I was in and out in 10 minutes AND I got to meet the race director, Les Wright (@runtahoerunmaui). If, for no other reason, sign up for this race for his emails, he's hilarious. I'm sure it's because it's a smaller race but, as far as race emails go, A+. 

 Festivities started at about 5:15 with a Hawaiian blessing which was dang cool. And I'm even pretty certain he wasn't just speaking jibberish. They played the conch, I got goosebumps and then we were off. They do have headlamps for sale, I didn't need one. The street is pretty well lit and enough people around you have them so you probably don't. AND! I got to meet some runner tweeps. @ericasara and @runrjr, they came to get married and decided to run too, too cute!

I've read comments (on active.com) from ppl who were complaining they didn't feel safe on the course, couldn't have been further from the truth, felt safe and comfortable the entire time (kind of a lie, I got pretty uncomfortable at mile 18 but can't blame the course for that). The road isn't closed and you run on the shoulder but traffic is courteous, plenty of cops and just tuck in behind someone bigger if you're really scared. Was super cool to see the moon reflecting off the ocean and to hear waves crash before the sun came up and ride started going back out. 

The aid stations were great, I knew it was a small marathon so brought a fuel belt for peace of mind but really, besides carrying my gu and Energy bits, wouldn't have needed it. I can't believe how spunky our volunteers were at 6am! They do not offer any energy gel but do have clif(?) bars and other assorted goodies. Water and Ultima to drink. 

It's pretty flat until about mile 11 then you hit some pretty aggressive hills through 16. That being said, I was more worried about them then I needed to be. Plus it's prime whale watching area so you're distracted. After 16 it's pretty flat until mile 25 where there's a slight uphill for maybe .5 miles then downhill and flat to the finish. The toughest part for me were the last 8, flat and direct sun. Plus there was no breeze. Make sure you wear sunscreen! Or run really fast so you don't have to bake like I did, lol!

I finally got to see whales at about mile 14, an awesome breech. Which is good because, unlike Pacific Whale Foundation, I don't think MOM offers refunds if I don't see a whale. 

The medals are solid, the art is way cool and they're heavy duty. Can't wait to get my race poster framed. I got my race pics THE NEXT DAY! That's amazing. I attached one, don't have a manatee (sea cow, get it?) I'm buying them. 

I think people who complain about this race are people who probably aren't happy about much. You're running. In paradise. What could you possibly be unhappy about?

This race came at the end of a two week trip in HI so yeah, maybe I shouldn't have eaten the Costco size bag of chocolate coconut covered macadamia nuts or snorkeled the day before the race, who knows. It's a great excuse to get to maui and run. Highly recommended. 

Was shootings for 3:59:59 and ran a 4:00:57. A 13 min pr so for sure bummed there's not a three in the front but still happy! 

Ran hard and safe for #megsmiles

You get a license plate holder!!!

Hawaiian Blessing at start

Me and my training buddy at the finish.

 

 Post race photo op, I'm about as salty as the Ocean here.

   

My professional race pic, don't worry, I'm buying it. 

Front

                            

Back. Isn't it cute? The Island with our race route on it! 

                                  My splits, I forgot to stop my garmin. Stupid last four miles. 

Virtual Insanity

I've found the most amazing thing, virtual races. It's virtual insanity!

I first read about them spring 2012 when I ran a world running day 5k but just recently found them again in December. It was a charity race I found on NYC Running Mommas blog, I thought, what the heck! I'm 9 mos, 3 weeks pg and I get to say I ran a 5k!

Since peanut is only 3 mos I'm still trying to figure out a schedule so weekend AM races aren't really in the cards yet. But you know what is? Virtual races!!!! I love the Internet, I love running, and I love medals! Virtual races are my favorite because I can do them while the baby is napping or playing with me in the gym, I can do them while daddy is holding her upstairs or I can do them pushing the stroller. I can do them at 5am or 10pm, the virtual running world is my oyster!

The latest virtual race I've signed up for is actually a series called 'Get out and Run' put on by US Road Running. For $13.99 ($19.99 if you want a tech shirt) you sign up for a 5/10k or a half and then complete it within the month you sign up. After you complete it you post your results on a message board. Since runners are notoriously moral, honest, good people, your results are by runners honor. Why lie? You're not competing with anyone so the only person you're lying to is yourself and that feels ishy. Did I mention you get a medal? I love swag and this monthly series comes with a personalized medal! I ran a 49 minute 10k for March and I can't wait to get my first medal. Maybe a half for April?!

I also just completed a 5k called The Virtual Bacon Challenge, an awesome group of online running friends who love bacon and running!

And last, but not least, I signed up for the Digital Running 'interstate challenge'. I need to run either a half or a full in two states to earn a medal. Swag!

So, there it is, with a three month old baby (who just rolled over for the first time today!) I'm already out racing again and it feels amazing! I love running.

US Road Running Virtual 10k

Virtual Bacon 5k

NYC Running Mama virtual 5k fundraiser (3 days before baby!)

I'm just about to roll over for mommy!http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4JkIs37a2JE

The Art of Gu

GU. There is nothing like it. Well there is something like it but in case anyone reads this and judges me for the content, I can't mention it. That being said, Gu tastes better. That, that, being said, the consistency of GU is like nothing else you've ever put in your mouth. I promise.

 Let's back the GU train up, GU is something used while running long distances, be it training runs or a race. In a marathon I take one about every 45 minutes. It is a tiny little 100 calorie pack that is full of carbs and sugar to try and replenish your body on the go. They make so much sense to me now, I don't know how I raced before them. GU is my favorite energy gel out there, I just like their flavors the best and have had the best luck with how my body reacts to it. 

When started training for my first marathon, I'd never heard of having to replenish my body with carbs and electrolytes through gu. That is what gatorade and water are for. My how times have changed! My training buddy at the time (and still is, I'll get to that) is my running bff, Beth. No seriously, her name is also Beth (she blogs HERE). I love running with her because people are like, Go Beth, wait, Go Beth and Beth! Beth squared. And ever since then, we've been Beth squared. Back to the point. She brought along a hammer gel one day for me to try. Brownie. It was definitely brownie, I still have a brownie stain on my favorite purple running shorts.... We were just heading into mile 5 and she handed me a packet, told me to rip off the top and eat what was inside. Ever the trusting friend, I did as I was told. And then I threw up. The closest thing I can compare gu to is, well, you know when you go to the dentist and they have to make a mold of your mouth and they put that putty in there and your eyes water because your gag reflexes are going and you think you're suffocating but then remember you can also breathe through your nose? Yeah, that's gu. Except it tastes better. The first couple GU's were tough. I thought I'd try the chocolaty flavors because that is what I like to eat but I find the fruity ones easier to swallow. Literally. Now I just rip it open, squirt it all in my mouth and swallow it in a big gu lump with a swig of water. Problem solved. 

The other half of Beth Squared is running Fargo Marathon in May but since I didn't sign up with her, said I'd still train with her. What can I say? I love to run. Next weekend there is an MDRA 10 mile race that we plan on doing together, then tacking on another 4 so she can get her 14 in. I needed some GU so ran (not literally but sometimes it is literally) to my favorite running store TC Running Company. OK, the reason I like this store the best is that, the people who operate the store are actual runners. More than being runners, they're just nice people. Plus it's close to my house. The GU's are right by the front counter and it was like a tractor beam, I saw PEANUT BUTTER! MY FAVORITE OF ALL TIME, of anything. Guy behind the counter said no go, do not try it. So, I didn't.  He did point me towards the Apple Cinnamon Hammer Gel though and I can't wait to try it. Well, can't wait in a, I NEED to take a gu so I may as well try this new flavor, sort of way.

My favorite flavors are Lemon Sublime, Mandarin Orange, and Espresso Love. And I have a feeling I'm going to like Island Nectar.  

What kind of refueling tools do you guys use? I'd love to hear your tips or tricks! 

March Run Stats aka I'm Doing Awesome

I kinda thought I'd be logging more miles with my 2012 goal but... I still think I'm doing ok. I ran 20/31 days in March (technically 24 if you count the days I mapped a run with furbaby on top of regular run). Plus I worked out 25/31 days. Totals for the year are; 57/91 days running and 72/91 days exercising. Plus I was super sick for four days in February so... I fell pretty good about myself. My clothes still fit. I haven't weighed myself in a month, which actually feels really good! And I've been trying new things to keep me going. I need to get back to Yoga, it really does center me and I feel like it takes away my stress. I just love to run and this goal keeps me lacing up my shoes even when I don't always feel like it.

Here's a link to a cute YouTube video by Nike.


March







February




January



She's back & pics

Do you ever feel so bored you don't feel like doing anything? That's kind of how I've felt the last month. I don't know why. The weather here in MN is FABULOUS, got to spend a week in FL with the LOML, I've been running REAL fast, pretty much a whiz at WWF (Words with friends, but like I needed to tell you), my tiny tower has 72 floors, my house is pretty clean. Everyone is pretty healthy... I've just been so bored! So much has happened that I should want to blog about but every once in a GREAT while I feel like social media is running my life and I need a break. I don't tweet, facebook, pin, check-in, blog, instragram... You name it, I don't do it. Now I have a TON of pics I can't wait to show you.

I probably should have blogged about a new recipe husb and I came up with or the fun brunch we had with my family last weekend. The face that we've owned KY stores for a year. Speaking of KY, UK Wildcats pride! Baseball is starting. The babies are getting teeth and eating baby cereal. Our baby sitch, or lack thereof. My March Run stats... I mean, kind of a big month. I'll just post pics instead. They're way more entertaining.

PS, we'll be in NYC end of June and I want to do a race, preferably around Manhattan so if you know of anything, let me know.



Saw David Copperfield, NBD





Cayden eating cereal,
they don't like the flash.



 



Elyse, give me your food.



FLASH!

My Lil Sweet Potato Face!

Auntie and Niece Elyse

I know, cutest nephew ever.

Looks like a cabbage patch doll,
should be a model.

My Boys!



MY YARD! I can't believe it. Sitting drinking coffee.



OH yeah! Someone is making
husby use facetime!



Fern doesn't want the kids to
pet him but he can't
be out of the action.



Momma helping in the yard. I think she
took over when I started pulling
flowers I thought were weeds...

Elyse watching us garden.
And by us, I mean mom.

The babies playing with most annoying toy ever. Oh yeah, it's from Auntie and Uncle. LOL!

Fern and I running. I'm huge.

Try these, they are to die for.

My Twin! We even bruise in the same spot!

Lunch: Salsa w/hot sauce

I tried to color myself tan, I just look like Snooki.

Niece Elyse and her teeth!

UK ALL DAY.

Grandma doesn't like this app as much
as I do! LOL

Add caption

They grow up so fast!

Ate a whole jar in one day, NBD, I'm awesome.

Busted Napping w/FurBaby on couches
he's not supposed to be on.

College roomie baby shower!

Fern Didn't care if UK beat L'Ville.

Watching, I Just Don't Know how she Does it.
After that movie we were wondering, I just don't know
how that got made.

I star in DQ training videos. NBD.