Upcoming Oregon Fall Races

Good Morning! 

This weekend marks the official end of summer vacation and I think it comes faster and faster every year.  While we were in Michigan I was desperate for summer and getting out of the bitter cold.  I couldn't wait to get home and get summer started!  Oregon summers are beautiful and there are so many ways to get out and enjoy the nice weather.  Although like most Oregonians we love our Oregon fall and Labor Day weekend marks the start of that for a lot of people.  I love this time of year when the seasons start to change and school gets back into session.  I love the routine and coziness of it all, certain things just seem to mellow and calm during this time of year.  We have one more big trip this year, my brother's graduation into the Navy, which is going to be such a great moment for our family.  While I am really looking forward to getting to Chicago again and seeing my brother I am also looking forward to slowing down and being home.  2013 has been a whirlwind of some really awesome things but I am ready to slow things down and be home for good.  

I also have a personal (selfish) reason to want to be home and slow down during the fall. Fall Races!  Oregon has some of the best weather in the fall and it makes the race season that much better.  There are so many to chose from and my race calendar is already set and ready to go.     

My Fall Race Line-Up

Archer Race I 

October 12th 

Champoeg State Park 

I am really excited about this Race Series because it benefits local libraries with the focus being K-5th grade reading and math material.  They also want to help with a technology upgrade at the library.  This race has a 5K ($25) and 10K ($32) option and is a timed event.  This is my first time running this event and I am looking forward to the experience. For more information check it out HERE.

Uberthons Halloweenathon      

October 26th 

Reserver Golf Course (Aloha)

This is a full day family affair with a kids race, BBQ cook off contest and 4 different races to chose from.  Every level of runner and walker is welcome and the races go from morning till night so you'll have the whole day to chose a race that works for you.  I personally really enjoy the events that Uberthons put on and I love the family atmosphere of each race.  Also the fact that they offer a kids race at every event for FREE is huge.  My daughter loves to run and wants to be a runner like me (yay!) and she is able to come and participate in every Uberthons race free of charge, nice job Uberthons!  Find out more information and the races available HERE. 

Archer Race II Challenge

November 2nd 

Bald Peak Park 

This is the 2nd event in the Archer Race Series.  It takes place on the 4th most prestigious course in the Northwest and is 13.1 miles of beautiful scenery.  You can find more information HERE.

Give n' Gobble  

November 28th - Thanksgiving Morning 

Sherwood High School 

This is a tradition for me and as long as we are home I'll always participate in this race.  I have a bit of pressure for this race since my neighbor has challenged me to race it with him.  We'll be running the 5K and the poor guy doesn't know what he is in for :) all in good fun right?  There is a 5K and 10K option this year and if you are a Sherwood local or just enjoy a family friendly fun event I strongly recommend the Give n'Gobble.  More information can be found HERE.

As of now those the races I plan on doing in the fall.  There are many more races out there and I am going to be putting together a list of events that sound like fun to me.  Katie, me and our families will be waving goodbye to summer this weekend with the Sunriver Race For A Cause 10K and Half Marathon Challenge.  I am hoping I am in good enough shape for both of these races since I've been sick for over 2 weeks and logged barely 20 miles during that time.  I've already told myself if I have to walk then I am just going to walk, this weekend is about having a good time with some good friends and family.  

Enjoy The Run!       

I Use To Be A Runner...

Good Morning! 

This is so sad but I haven't ran in 8 days, 8 DAYS!  I was going to run this morning but obviously I didn't.  I honestly feel I needed the break and now I am ready to get back to it.  I miss the feeling of already having my day started by the time the girls have woken up.  I miss the shot of energy a run will give me and I miss my running routes.  Basically I miss running and like anything else in life I just needed a break from it and this awful sickness gave me just that.  I am still hacking up a lung but physically actually feel a lot better, the cough is just par for course.  I am a little nervous to go back to out cause I know it won't be pretty since I am sure I have lost some fitness but I'll get there.  

This weekend Katie and I have the Sunriver Marathon For A Cause and we are so excited!  

Katie and I registered for this back in February and we really thought we would be able to run the marathon, then life happened.  We are hoping to change to their 10K & Half Marathon challenge but haven't heard back yet, maybe we'll be running that marathon anyway! HA!  No.  I am barely going to be ready to run the half marathon let alone a full marathon so hoping to hear something sooner rather than later.  Either way the weekend will be a lot of fun and I am looking forward to spending the last weekend of summer with my family and our good friends.  

We got our picture with Bigfoot that we took at the Huckleberry Half!  That was such a fun event and I am already ready to register for next year, hills and all!  

I am working on a post for some upcoming fall races and would love your input!  

-What fall race are you most looking forward to?  

Lessons Learned from The Office

Good morning! 

Today is the start of the Portland Rock and Roll Expo and I am so excited!  A lot of the races I do are smaller hometown races (which I love!) so there isn't usually much of an expo.  This Expo should be pretty large and have some fun vendors and SAMPLES!  Katie told me she wants to run the half with me so we should try and get into the same corral.  I just think she wants to use me to make her race pics better, I am on to her!

Last night was the series finale of The Office and since I don't have a DVR I sat down and watched it LIVE last night.  Does anyone else still watch live TV or am I the only one left?  It was a 2 hour block of TV so I really only sat down to watch the final hour the first hour was flash backs.  I remember when The Office premiered and I was hooked, who doesn't love the Jim and Pam love story?!  I really like the way they did the final episode and some of the life lessons the characters shared with the audience.  

Darryl talked to the camera about how he would come to work all these years and couldn't wait to get out of there.  Now he is looking back he realizes that those were the good ol' days, he thinks why can't we realize we are in those days at the time?  Do you find yourself doing that too?  When he said that line it struck a chord with me, I know so many people who live in their past and feel that was the good ol'days.  I personally feel really grateful for the ability to recognize that THIS time right now is my good ol'days.  

I use to be a person who was always living in the past annoyed with how things were and wishing for the future. I never allowed myself to live in the present and appreciate all that was around me.  After I lost Jenny last year it was as if my entire world was turned on its axis.  Jenny was everything to me and my family and always will be, her presence is huge.  I never thought I would lose her because it never dawned on me that I could ever suffer that kind of loss.  Since she has been gone my life has been changed drastically because I now make every effort to live in the moment.  

I can honestly say that right now in this moment I am living my good ol'days.  I am going to look back at this time in my life with pure joy and happiness.  Being able to spend every day with my girls, get up and run in the morning and have my husband home every night is simple and wonderful.  I use to suffer from a lot of anxiety and worry because I was constantly fast forwarding to the future and its scary possibilities.  I couldn't fully feel grateful or fulfilled because of that constant worry about the future and I have finally just let it go.  Yes I still have to make plans and be organized and realistic but I also don't let it consume me anymore and I can step out of it.  I can't help but think Jenny has given me the gift of the present and it is the best gift I've ever been given.  

I have taken this approach with my running also.  I use to feel that if I didn't get fast (relative term) then I wasn't a "real" runner.  Why I felt that way I couldn't tell you because I don't feel that way about any of my running friends, so why was I holding myself to such a standard?  I couldn't enjoy my runs or my races because I wasn't really in them I was too consumed with the future of my running.  Well not anymore!  I am honestly just happy to get out there in the morning and have such a supportive network.  I am literally surrounded by people who love me and who I love right back twice as hard.  

At the Run for Boston last weekend one of the speakers told the crowd that we shouldn't wait for big moments to tell the people we care about how much we love them.  I hope I live in a way so that all of those who I love know how much I love them.  I've always worn my heart on my sleeve but I can get better at expressing just how important my loved ones are to me.  Take time every day to show gratitude to someone because it is those smalls acts that make a big difference in someone's life.  We are all a work in progress in so many areas but don't let it take away from the RIGHT NOW!  Enjoy this moment you are in.  

Pam's final words on The Office last night were simple but exact: 

There's a lot of beauty in ordinary things, isn't that the point?

Did you watch The Office?  

Have you ever ran a Rock and Roll race, any advice? 

What are you grateful for right now in this moment?!  

- Watching the girls build "a house" on my couch and hear them make plans for it   

    

   

  

Uberthon's Run for Boston 5k

Hi! 

Saturday was such a full day and by the time we all got home we were exhausted.  We started the day with all of us heading into Portland for the Doggie Dash and ended the day at Champoeg Park for the Run for Boston.  Yesterday I had originally planned as a rest day but Friday wasn't in the cards for my long run so it was moved to Sunday.  I have found that the more flexible I am in my life the happier and less stressed I've become, funny how that works.  I had planned on 10 miles but cut it short about 3/4 of a mile because my feet hurt and I was just done.  Jess surprised me with a stop at the Portland Running Company on Saturday for a new pair of kicks, points!  I tried on 3 different pairs of Mizunos ranging from minimum control to full on foot don't move control.  I am always in the mindset of avoid injury anyway possible and to me that means a solid pair of shoes.  I decided on the Alchemy 12's and for me they have too much stability, does that even make sense?  

I felt like I was running with blocks on my feet and afterwards my feet hurt like I had been walking for days.  Normally after a run in a new pair of shoes my feet feel great so I am going to exchange them for this pair instead.  I have about 300 miles on my current shoes so I'll start switching back and forth and using my Wave Rider 16's for shorter runs.  

*The picture is sideways because I am technically challenged, sorry*

Saturday night was the Run for Boston I had really been looking forward to and it was a really great race for me, wanna know why?  Oh I just PR'd!  YAY!  I cannot really tell you why I wanted to make this race a race against my old PR but I just felt like I should at least try.  Probably because I knew I would have Katie running with me and she could pace me.  I knew she wouldn't let me slow down and would try and distract me by talking about double sided tape and eating bugs.  

She looks so perky here and I am apparently getting my fists of fury ready for a fight!  Please don't ask what is happening with my face, it was rare moment when I ignore a race photographer.

I guess I thought I would try to double high five the photographer?  Um...I dunno...

I honestly just wanted it to be over at about mile 1.5, but that is just a guess because there was not a mile marker to be found.  Maybe I have my thumbs up because I just feel so awesome, ya that is it.

Here is the thing, I don't run hard in races.  I think I am running hard but I ALWAYS finish with way too much left over in my tank.  This has been disappointing for me and I decided I was going to just see what I could do this time.  I finished with an official time of 28:31, 9:10 average pace and beat my old 5k PR of 30:12.  I feel really good about this PR and I am so grateful to Katie for getting me there.  When we saw the finish line clock she said "OK Dani go for it get under 30" and I said "OK, ya I can do that" then she said "Under 29! Under 29!" LOL!  So I really just pushed with all I had, that girl is always pushing me to do better :)  The conditions weren't really there for a PR either, it was hot and muggy and not a breeze to be found.  Thankfully they had 2 water stations for us runners which was so appreciated by all I am sure.  I am an almost 100% morning runner and this race started at 6:00 pm, so I really had no business gunning for a PR.  Needless to say but I am saying it anyway, I feel pretty stoked!  Thank you Katie, seriously if you hadn't paced me and kept me at an extremely uncomfortable wanting to hurt someone where the hell is the finish line pace I wouldn't have came close.      

Do you have someone in your life who pushes you to be better?  

- Katie pushes me a lot both in running and in other areas she probably doesn't even realize

What is your PR you are currently most proud of?  

What is coming up that you are super excited about?!  Doesn't have to be race related!  

- I am really looking forward to the Rock and Roll Half this weekend and my first run with my favorite teenage neighbor in a couple weeks :) 

Injury Prevention Tid-Bits

Good morning!  

Today is a run rest day so it'll just be me and my personal trainer Chalean once I finish my cup of coffee.  Can I be honest?  I really want to go out for a run right now but I know how important it is to respect the run rest day...boo!  My legs are super sore which I am excited about, they haven't been sore in a while.  Tomorrow is my long run day with Katie and of course I am excited about that so I'll give in to the run rest day today, for Katie.  

This last week has been a good week in terms of getting up in the morning and feeling good about my runs and cross training.  This morning will be day 3 for cross training, score!  So I am really trying to focus on those positives because it has really been a good week on paper.  Of course I have to harp on myself so here it goes.  I shouldn't care and it shouldn't matter but to me it does, I am sick of where I am at with my pace and it is time to do something about it.  Being on the slower side is nothing to be ashamed of and is not what is frustrating me, what is frustrating is I have been putting in the work to increase and it just is not happening.  I know speed work and hill training are going to be my friend in regards to increasing speed so I will work on my relationship with them but I am also going to increase my weekly mileage.  I have wanted to start doing a longer run during the week and I have read and heard from fellow runners that increasing your mileage can also increase your pace.  Well sign me up!  I will have to be careful about increasing my weekly mileage because if I push it up too quickly then it'll be hello injury goodbye running!  

According to Runner's World runners should follow the 10% rule when increasing their weekly mileage.  On average I run anywhere from 20-25 miles a week.  Next week I'll start my 10% increase, if I use the 25 miles I'll run this week next week I can run 27.5, the following week I'll run 30 miles and so on.  10% is not a big number and only adds 2.5 miles to my week but it is getting me where I want to be and keeping me healthy.  I have some lofty goals for this fall which may include becoming a marathon maniac and staying injury free.  Since we are on the topic of injuries did you know that continuously taking your shoes off without untying the laces can cause damage to your feet?  I guess after a while it can hurt your ankle ligaments and tendons, I never knew! 

Be like me and untie your shoes!

I took this picture last night on our walk.  It has no relation to my post I just thought it was a cute picture and I would share it!  Lucy is currently in training for her Doggie Dash coming up in a few weeks.  She is really pumped up to bust our her 1.5 miles!  Our buddy Maverick being the all star he is will be doing the longer 2.5 miles.  

 2012 Doggie Dash 

OK Chalean won't wait any longer, she is such a hard ass, but I love her!  Have a great weekend!  

If you haven't already check out Uberthons Run for Boston!

What has been your favorite running event? 

Do you have any tidbits you want to share with the class about running injuries and prevention? 

It is FRIDAY!  What are you doing this weekend?

  

Runners Helping Runners - Run For Boston 5K

Good morning! 

Yesterday I hopped on my treadmill to do a ladder run from my TLAM training plan. I love ladder runs mostly because you are pushing really hard for 1-3 minutes which is something mentally I can handle.  It was an epic fail to put it nicely, what did I learn?  Two glasses of wine in the middle of the week will not help me get faster, just fall asleep faster, ha!  I woke up this morning did my cross training and headed out to redeem myself after yesterday's sad attempt.  I ran to the middle school track to warm up and did 4 fast (relative term) 100 meters.  Then I wanted to push myself up some hills, I apparently really wanted to punish myself, I kid.  I actually really like hills because not only do they push your body in a different way they are secretly speed work too, double score!  I will be putting at least one hill workout into my weekly plan from now on.  Sometimes I find myself feeling sluggish and unexcited about the gains I am making with running but I think taking a step back and just being grateful for the health to run puts everything into perspective.  So enough about my lame running abilities and onto much more pressing matters! 

Have you done a Run for Boston yet?  Katie and I ran in tribute of Boston and used a virtual run bib during our 10 mile last weekend.  

Katie and I both wanted to do something else and jumped at the chance to register for the Uberthon's Run For Boston on May 11th in Champoeg Park.  What I love about this race, besides it benefiting Boston, is that it is in the evening!  I am already registered for the Doggie Dash earlier that day and I can still come and support Run for Boston in the evening.  Score!    

100% of the proceeds of this race are going to the Boston One Fund to help those who were affected by this tragedy.  As we all know those hurt and killed by this senseless act are the very people who we know and love, our spectators.  They are the people out along the course cheering us on, calling out our names/bib numbers, they are our families, our children.  As a runner I did not hesitate for a second to register for this race, it is time for me to give back to my supporters.  

The event cost $25 and also has a kids race that is FREE, Sarah is all signed up and ready to go!  There is also an option to purchase a meal afterwards for $8, which I would spend easily anywhere else, this girl likes to eat.  This event is for both runners and walkers, the whole family!  I hope I will see you there running or walking in support of our cheering section that was so tragically hurt during the bombings.  

If you are looking for more information about the race you can go HERE.  

The Specs: 

Race Runners start @ 6:00 PM 

Race Walkers start @ 6:05 PM 

Fitness Walkers start @ 6:06

My favorite part the FOOD starts @ 6:25, dang I better run fast! 

If you don't think you can run or walk the event please consider donating your time to volunteer.  For more information on volunteering go HERE.  Your help is more valuable than you know!

       

Race Time!

Hi!  

Even though February is a short month I am still surprised how quickly it passed by this time around.  I started my half marathon training 3 weeks ago and aside from missing some cross training this week I have stayed on track.  I am learning to really enjoy the speed work sessions on the treadmill and am surprised at how quickly they make the miles pass.  I set a goal of hitting 10 miles on the treadmill by the time we were back home and I hit that goal last weekend.  It wasn't nearly as awful as I had in my head, it actually went by rather quickly and I was able to catch up on a documentary I really wanted to watch.  I talked about it in this post, it is called Hungry for Change and I really recommend it, I found it on Netflix in their instant section.  I also realized this week that it was almost March and I needed to get registered for some races before all the prices go up.

I signed up for a 10k in Plymouth on Sunday March 17th.  I am excited to do this race, it'll be my first time heading to a race solo.  I always have Katie with me, so this will be a good experience for me!  

  


Jess, as a Christmas gift, registered me for the Portland Rock'n'Roll Half Marathon.  It'll be my first big race of 2013 and I am following Another Mother Runner Training Plan.  I wasn't sure if I would share or not but I decided to just put it out there, I am going for a PR in this race.  My goal is to hit 2:15 or less and I am really liking the AMR Training Plan, I recommend it for mom and non-mom runners.   

Katie created a team with the Electric Run so I am running the 5k in July in Portland.  This race will be an easy fun run in the evening which will be different!  

In honor of the reason Katie and I started to run, Maverick, we are signed up for the OHS Doggie Dash in May.  We did this dash last year and it helps to raise funds for the Oregon Humane Society.  I haven't decided if I'll bring my Lucy but it was a lot of fun last year, 2 words: Complimentary Mimosas.  

Last but definitely NOT the least I swallowed a huge "I told you so" pill and registered for Marathon #2!  The Sunriver Marathon For A Cause takes place over Labor Day weekend  and I am pumped to have another marathon under my belt.  

I also have some half marathons and possibly marathon #3 on my list that I am going to be registering for soon.  Once I complete those shorter races in the first part of this year I want to concentrate on longer distances.  I really enjoy long runs and going the distance over shorter, run as fast you can gonna puke at the finish.  Is that totally weird?!

What is your favorite distance to race?  

Do you have a race for 2013 that you are totally stoked about?  

Tell me about your favorite PR if you have one!