Trail Pigeon

24 Miles with My Best Bud

2012-02-18T12:22:00.000-08:00

Yesterday on the agenda was 24 fabulous miles, OK so maybe they weren't that fabulous but it was still 24 miles and time on my feet. I switched things up and decided to do my long run on Friday as I had taken it off from work, but maybe that wasn't such a good idea or maybe it wasn't a good idea to go out and have some beer the night before. I was probably a bit dehydrated and didn't set myself up for a successful run. But lesson learned and all I can do is move on from it.

Traildog came with me and he was super excited to get started, so excited that he was having a hard time waiting while I tied my shoes. Not only did I have to pack enough fuel for me but I also had to make sure I had enough fuel for Traildog. We started out and headed down the DAM hill and hit the single track in no time at all. As soon as we hit the single track I took Traildog off his leash and let him go. He was so happy to be out and about. He even made a huge leap over that little dip, it was pretty exciting to see.

My legs were feeling pretty good it was my mental mind frame that was a different story. For some reason I had a lot of different thoughts running through my head and I couldn't get it under control, I couldn't turn it off so all I could do was try and embrace it but that ended up being pretty hard.

The trail was nice and the ground tacky and the sun was shining it was a beautiful day, but I wasn't having too much fun on the trail. Traildog on the other hand was having a blast, he was running ahead of me and than would stop and wait and if I took too long he would come running back to me with such enthusiasm. Once he saw me and we made eye contact he would turn around and take off. I really wonder how many miles he actually put in with all that coming and going.

The miles were ticking by but not as quickly as I needed. I needed to change my thinking so that I could hopefully turn this run around. I hit Avery's Pond and that put a little smile on my face and I found that little bit of happiness that I needed. We continued on and I slowly found a good rhythm as I neared Rattlesnake bar. I was cruising and was feeling pretty good, physically and mentally. Amazing how things can turn around during a run, that is great thing about ultras the highs and lows. During those low points I know I need to find something to hold on to to keep me going and yesterday it was Traildog. I saw how much fun he was having and that brought joy to me.

Soon we hit our turnaround in 2:05 and there I spent time refueling and feeding Traildog some puppy chow. We headed back and man did the Overlook feel so far away. It felt like I was out in the middle of nowhere with a huge task in front of me. I really didn't want to head back, I was not looking forward to it and I knew it was going to be a tough run back.

I started back and Traildog took the lead, he was off and to the races and even missed a few key turns. I had to yell for him and he came flying down the trail. Slowly the miles went by and next thing I knew I was back at Avery's Pond. Only 8 miles to go. Piece of cake. Right?

I kept pushing forward knowing this was more of a mental battle than anything else. Just keep moving, just keep moving is what I kept telling myself. Just keep moving is what we did. The really runnable sections I ran, I focused on running, I was trying to push myself during the areas that I knew were runnable as there are going to be times during races that I will feel like this. But by pushing on and running even though my mind is saying stop will only make me a stronger runner.

Soon we arrived at the base of the DAM hill, only this was going to be a totally different experience from the last time I ran it. This was going to be mental challenge as I was completely defeated. I hiked and hiked and hiked, than I ran and ran and ran than I hiked. It was slow progress but slowly but surely we were making our way up. Just keep moving forward. With 1.5 to go a gear hit and I was running, I was pushing myself and I could see Traildog pushing himself. Together we were pushing each other. We pushed that little bit and finished as strong as we could. 24 miles in the book and one tough run for that is for sure.

I know this run will make me a stronger runner as I didn't give up. I kept pushing on. I am glad that Traildog was with me as he helped me get focused again and he helped me during those tough times.

Feeling Stronger and Faster!

2012-02-15T10:49:00.000-08:00

Usually on my shorter runs I don't wear a Garmin. I just run how my body feels. But I decided to change things up and I strapped on the Garmin and headed out the door. I was pleasantly surprised yesterday when I looked down during my run and saw my pace. My average pace yesterday hovered around 8:33. Here is the breakdown:

Mile 1: 8:31
Mile 2: 8:25
Mile 3: 8:18 where did that come from?
Mile 4: 8:31
Mile 5: 8:21
Mile 6: 8:25
Mile 7: 8:47
Mile 8: 9:27

I haven't seen these times in awhile, well I guess I wouldn't know since I haven't been wearing my Garmin. I would like to think that all those tough runs after work actually made me stronger physically and mentally.

I know that I have been mentally fatigued lately but this run I felt focused and on fire. It is weird how I actually was able to clear my mind. It is the strangest sensation, to not have a single thought pass through because I was so focused on the task at hand. Almost as if I am watching from the side line on what is going on. It is hard to explain, but a feeling that I want to have on the regular basis.

After my run I have started a new regiment. I have been incorporating some plyometric exercises, which is to help me build speed and power. I have been doing these for four days. I start with lunges 3 sets of 30, followed by 3 sets of 30 wall jumps. The wall jumps are quick and explosive with no rest in between the jumps. Than I do 3 sets at 1 minute of wall sits. Those hurt! After that I do 3 sets of 30 box jumps. Again this is explosive jumps.

I would like to think that I have already noticed a difference as I am feeling stronger and my leg turnover seems to be quicker. It also has helped to stretch my legs and also unloads all the junk that builds up after my runs. I am not as stiff as I once was and I plan on doing these exercises and little by little increasing the repetitions and the height of the wall jumps and box jumps.

Today I had another fantastic workout, I ran 7 miles in an hour. That is an average pace of 8:42 per mile though some miles were faster. I did start to feel yesterdays work out on the last 2 miles but I just pushed myself harder and focused on relaxing and next thing I knew I was back.

Again after the workout I did the lunges, wall jumps, and wall sits and box jumps. Tomorrow I will take it nice and easy and just have a nice relaxed run so that I can get myself ready for my long runs this weekend. Before I know it, Way Too Cool 50k will be here. Can't wait for my first race to see where I stand. Looking forward to some quick runs and getting stronger while doing it.

A Tough Run

2012-02-11T12:41:00.000-08:00

This week I have had to change things up a bit. Instead of running long on the weekend I had to go long on Thursday, due to the fact that it is my weekend to work. Only when Thursday came it took everything I had to not talk myself out of running. I really just wasn't feeling this run. Mentally I was tired, I was tired from the weeks activities at work. But I managed to pack what I needed, pack what Traildog would need and get to the Auburn Overlook by 6:45. I was ready to run if I wanted to or not.

Now this would be Traildog's first time seeing the DAM hill and also this trail and this would be the second time in 5 days I have run this portion of the trail. Off we went, happy as could be ohh wait that was Traildog. He was happy and having a great time and I was thinking of every excuse in the book to turn around and call it a day. But I kept on going, my legs felt stiff and sore and I really wasn't focused. I was busy thinking of work and all that needed to happen over the next few days.

I kept going and eventually we hit the single track. About half a mile on the single track I decided to let Traildog run free, but for a bit he was suppose to stay behind me. That didn't last long as he was running so close to me that every time I had to take a step up I would accidentally hit him with my foot. So I took a chance and let him run free in front of me. And run free he did. He wasted no time and just took off on down the trail. I took off after him and while I watched Traildog run back and forth I completely forgot everything else that was going on in my head.

Traildog would run ahead and than stop and look back. If he saw me he would make sure I saw him and than take off and run some more. When I was too slow for him he would run back to me wagging his little tail. He was having a blast just running back and forth and waiting. I thought it was pretty cute and soon we had made our way to the bridge. Pretty soon we would be turning around as I had decided to turn around at Avery's Pond, about 8 miles. My legs were not liking the trail and my hamstrings were pretty tight, plus I had some things I needed to get done back at home. At least I pushed myself this far, I mean I still had to get back up the DAM hill.

At Avery's Pond Traildog enjoyed some puppy chow while I took in a GU and a salt and than we headed back. Mt attitude had change slightly, I was still in a rough place mentally but I knew I had to pull it together. I focused on following Traildog, he was setting a nice and steady pace and I just followed. I let my mind go, I stopped thinking and just ran. I ran and I ran, slowly the miles clicked by and I was slowly nearing the DAM hill. My legs were still feeling funky.

Traildog was setting a nice pace and than out of nowhere he picked his pace up. Almost seemed like his puppy chow had kicked in. This was a nice surprise as it brought me back to my running and I ever so slowly increased my pace trying to keep up with him. I caught him just as we neared a split in the trail and he went the wrong way. I yelled for him and he eventually came. We were near the base of the DAM hill and unlike last time where I had visualized myself running up it before I arrived, this time I just left defeated

This is of course not what I needed to be thinking at this time. It was going to be a slow climb out this time. I was tired and feeling it, I probably should have eaten more as I only had 2 GU's. My stomach was growling. Traildog on the other hand would have run up the entire thing if I could have kept up with him. Slowly but surely I made my way up, running some but not much. My legs were stiff and hurting. Once I finally made it back up it was 16 miles all said and done in 3 hours. A bit slow, but it is time on my feet.

I know that every run isn't going to be fantastic and it is the tough runs that makes one stronger. But it doesn't always feel that way when one is in the moment. Lessons learned; eat more, get focused sooner, don't talk myself out a run. In short, get it done!

I am glad I managed to get the miles in, I am also happy that Traildog did so well on the trial. He kept a nice and steady pace, listened when he needed to, and I am pretty sure that if he hadn't come with I probably would have turned around sooner. A tough run indeed.

23 Awesome Miles

2012-02-05T11:16:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was a awesome day on the trails of Auburn. I had been planning on running 23 miles yesterday and that is just what I did. My longest run up to this point was 14 miles. Life has happened and I have had to alter my training program a bit.

So last week was a down week, as I was watching my nephew and helping out with the family and work has caused me some headache and I just didn't find the time to run. But with a down week, meant my body could heal and get some much needed rest as I have been building my mileage over the past few months.

It was dark when I arrived at the Overlook. My dinky little flash light wasn't much help when I started but luckily the sun was slowly coming up and I really didn't need it. I did miss having Traildog with me. I had left him at home to get some rest. I headed down the dam hill with the one thought in my head, oh crap, I have to run back up this. Now if you haven't run this hill, it is 3.3 miles of up hill running and that will really cause ones legs to burn. I cruised down it not wanting to blow up my quads and just really enjoyed being out on the trails.

I hit the single track and my legs were feeling pretty good, no aches no pains and I was cruising nicely at a 9:30 pace during some sections of this trail. The trail was fast and tacky and the footing was great. I was able to find my rhythm and all felt right. I was mentally focused, I was in tune with my body, and I was running smooth. It felt awesome to be this comfortable on the trail.

As the miles clicked by I was pleasantly surprised to see that I was already 5 miles in my run and it hadn't even been an hour. I hit 6 miles right at an hour, I did the math in my head and I was doing 10 minute miles with some 9:30 thrown in. It felt awesome. I was excited because I had planned on turning around at 2 hours and than pushing myself on the return knowing I had the DAM hill to get up. I fueled at 6 miles, took in a GU and a salt.

My body was feeling strong and I was powering up the small rollers like I have never done before. I was moving. I arrived at Avery's Pond and like always chuckled and thought of Trailmomma. "How will I know when I arrive at Avery's Pond?" It never fails, I always laugh and play out that conversation. How I miss running with her. The answer; there is a sign!

I was almost to Rattlesnake and I was still feeling strong. I wasn't having any issues. I was staying on top of my fueling and hydration. I was still mentally focused, which surprised me because a few days ago I wasn't focused at all. I hit my turn around in 2 hours, 11.5 miles. Here I took off my long sleeve, took a GU and a salt and headed back.

On the return I knew it was going to be challenge to negative split it as going back there is a bit more hills than coming down. But I was up for the challenge and having this challenge allowed my mind to focus on the small goal for the day. I took it mile by mile, power hiking when I needed too and running. Eventually I heard Anthony's voice in my head and remembered how runnable this section of trail could be and I started to push myself once again. I was occasionally having to stop and stretch as my legs were aching, which is normal.

Just like when I started, going back the miles were flying by, soon enough I would be at the base of the DAM hill and only have 3.3 miles of uphill running left to do. I knew that once I arrived at the base of the DAM hill that it was/is runnable, but I had to be in the right mind frame. I couldn't let the hill get into my head. As I neared the base I slowly visualised myself running up it and I think that helped me get focused. As once I arrived at the base I was mentally ready and I had my plan of attack.

I power hiked the first part as it was pretty steep, but slowly I gave myself goals to reach for. I would run -to that sigh-, now I would run to that rock. Small steps/goals is all it took. I broke the hill down into manageable parts this way it wouldn't feel so overwhelming and slowly but surly I was making it up to the top. Small goals, mind tricks is how I kept going.

I arrived at the top in total time 4:19, not bad only adding 19 minutes to the return knowing how slowly the return trip really is. 23 awesome miles on the beautiful trails of Auburn. Not bad.

My training this year thus far has been far different than the past two years. Now that I am living on my own I am taking Traildog out almost everyday and when I run with him I am literally running speed every day (which I do not advice) So my leg turnover is quicker. I have taken him on the trails with me a couple of times and there he also pushes the pace, forcing me to run far faster than I ever thought possible. This has given me the confidence to work harder and push myself when I run by myself like yesterday's 23.

I am looking forward to my next long and I only hope it will be just as great as this one.

Exciting News!

2012-02-02T06:40:00.000-08:00

On January 20, 2012 my baby niece was welcomed to his world. Only she was 5 weeks early and tiny weighing in at 5lbs 5ozs. She is the most precious little girl in the world. She is still in the NICU, but has graduated to a crib as she is able to hold he her own body temperature.

Baby Kaylee

When she first arrived she had a feeding tube as she was not eating as much as the doctors wanted and her weight yo yo ed back and forth. But now she is feeding on demand and the family is only waiting for the OK from the doctor that she can come home. They are thinking sometime this weekend.

Precious baby girl

But let me tell you about the twin intuition. On Wednesday of that week, I was in a lot of pain. I shouldn't have been in this much pain and my team at work even asked me if I was feeling OK. There was no reason for this pain and I just passed it off. I was sore I was stiff I was cramping, it was very uncomfortable. I just chalked it up to over doing it at work and with my training. Later I learned that my sister was having some minor issues. Thursday was just another day for me, but Friday wasn't.

Her Feet Look Big

I went out for my run that morning and came home and cleaned up and I was sitting on the couch when I had this incredible feeling that was just overwhelming. The feeling wouldn't go away. I got up put my jacket on and just drove over to my sisters house. Now typically I will call or text before just showing up on the door. Not this time, the feeling was so strong that I just needed to get over there.

But not Really, look how tiny those feet are

My sister answered the door and was surprised to see me. I said that I just wanted to stop by and she told me she was having some minor complications and has a doctors appointment. She had been having some leakage and some pain in the lower abdomen. She was thinking that maybe it was a bladder infection. I offered to watch Lil Man but they had already made plans to bring him over to grandma house as they didn't know what my schedule looked like. (I was off that day and all weekend) I didn't tell my sister until a few days later as to why I just stopped by.

Daddy's Little Girl

Around 6 that evening I was out with Anthony and I received a call from my other sister and she told me Kristina's water had broke. Wow! Sounds like the baby is coming. Exciting but scary at the same time as the baby is really early. Around 7 I received the text that my little niece had arrived. My sister was in labor for only 3 hours. Talk about a quick delivery and a totally different delivery than what she experienced with Lil Man.

Brent feeding his baby girl!

So my intuition was right. I will never second guess that feeling again.

All last week I was watching Lil Man and he even had a sleep over at my house. I picked him up from pre school each day and stayed with him until his dad came home from the hospital. I enjoyed all the time I spent with Lil Man and I was glad that I could help my family out when they needed it. My sister is doing really well and really wants to bring the little one home.

Welcome to this world baby Kaylee. I can't wait to spoil you like crazy!

A quick 14

2012-01-23T12:25:00.000-08:00

This weekend has been very full for me which is rare for me. It has been all about the family and if I had time squeezing a run in, which I did manage early Saturday morning. Saturday I was ready to run by 0 dark 30. It was 7 am when I started and I was on a time frame. I had only a few hours to get my run in as I was needed elsewhere.

Off I went starting from Cavitt. I was a Trail Pigeon on a mission. My goal I was aiming for was 14 miles. I knew I could get that kind of mileage in in about 2 hours and 20 minutes. I really needed at least an 18 miler, but I just didn't have the time and I couldn't risk not getting back in on time. Plus I had just run 14 miles from Auburn to Cool and back on Thursday and I didn't know how my legs were going to feel.

My legs during this run were feeling great. I wasn't tight and my feet were light on the trail. It felt awesome to be running the pace I was running. I was pushing it on the way out. I knew I could hit my turn around in about 1 hour and 10 minutes, but I would have to move. I was running the hills, I was bouncing off the rocks, I was having fun and running with a smile on my face. I was focused on my task and kept moving. I was feeling so good at the turnaround that I really wanted to go for more mileage, but I knew better.

At the turnaround I took in a GU and 2 salts as the day was warming up and it was getting pretty humid out. I was off, heading back to my car and I was still running most of the ups and really pushing it on the flats. The return was awesome because I ran into a few running groups and that really energized me. I was given one group high fives as they ran past.

I also ran into the Fleet Feel Ultra Training Group, who were out running a training run. I think they logged 18-19 miles that day. It was great to see them because I stopped and talked to a few of my friends I hadn't seen in awhile and I am sure you could hear me calling out "HEY!!!! HEY!!!!" as a big train of them ran past. They were looking good and I was feeling really good. My legs felt awesome, my fueling on this run seemed to be spot on and I was still having fun even though I had just run through the grinder. In fact it wasn't so much of a grind this day as just a small obstacle to overcome.

As I pushed myself on the fire road all I could think about was how fast I ran that fire road during the Sierra Nevada 50 Miler Endurance run. Looking back on that day I always tell myself anything is possible if I just believe. I believe that the mind is a powerful tool.

I arrived back at the car in total time 2:20. Not bad for a quick 14 on the muddy trails. It was a great run, one that I hope to repeat in the future. I was focused, my mind was clear, my legs were responding and I was pushing myself. I can't wait to hit the trails again!

I believe do you?

A Little Rest Goes a Long Ways

2012-01-20T10:26:00.000-08:00

It amazes me that how a little bit of rest followed by some healthy eating and proper hydration can really turn the body around. Today's run was fantastic. My head was clear, I was focused, I was motivated, my legs felt great and I was moving.

This 6 mile run was awesome, have I said that yet. Yes, it was only six miles but after yesterday's struggles on the trail and my head not being clear, not being motivated this was a nice change and for it to happen so quickly. I think all my body needed was some proper rest, no stress...which meant I was off work....some proper nutrition and some proper hydration and I am back in the game.

It was also nice to get my run in in between rain showers. It hasn't rained here in a few months so the rain was needed, but I was just glad not to be running in it just yet. Traildog came along with me this morning and he was moving nicely. He didn't pull me we were working together and enjoying the early crisp air and pretty much the entire parkway to ourselves. We did see a few running groups but they were all running in the opposite direction.

My legs felt fantastic, I didn't have any tightness except my quads were a bit sore from yesterdays trail run to Cool. But that is a good thing, at least I could still run which means I pushed myself yesterday but not to the extent that I couldn't move.

I also think that my light stretching and foam rolling has something to do with my recovery as well. The last few days I have been foam rolling more than I use too and I also have been stretching my legs after each run. This allows me to have some quiet time and to reflect on my run, what worked well, what needs improvement, how does my body feel and things like that. I actually enjoy it because it gives me a chance to refocus.

Focus is what I have been lacking, motivation has been lacking...but I believe that is all changing. My how one day of rest and relaxation can bring about a entire new attitude. Positive thinking goes a long ways.

Hoping that tomorrow's run will be just as awesome!

To Cool and Back with Traildog!

2012-01-19T14:10:00.000-08:00

Double down Wednesday yesterday did not happen. When I came home from work and put on my running shoes and headed out the door with Traildog my legs were just not responding. They were tight, achy, I had no power. I actually ended up cutting my run short and only did 5 miles.

My body was telling me to rest. When I made it back home I immediately spent some time with my foam roller and I spent a bit of time stretching my legs out. After that I put my legs up and relaxed. It has been a long week for me and I really needed my days off to come. Which they did I am off until Monday morning which also means I can get some killer runs in on some sweet trails! How awesome is that.

Today when I woke up I immediately noticed my legs were feeling better. They weren't 100% but were feeling pretty good and I wanted to hit some trails I haven't been on in a few months. I actually can't believe how long it has been since the last time I have run from Auburn to Cool and back. That is one of my favorite runs as it has everything I need to test myself. It has some awesome descent, some gnarly climbs and of course some great views.

I decided to also bring along with me Traildog. This would be his first run on this trail. he was super excited. We hit the trail head and it was a bit chilly out. I was only hoping to get my run in before the rain came. I wasn't on any sort of time limit nor was I going to push my legs to hard. I just wanted to enjoy this trail and my me time. I really needed this run.

Traildog did outstanding and he even was allowed to run off leash for a bit. He loves when I unclip him and takes off and than turns around and waits sometimes he will run back to me and jump up to me, trying to give me a kiss. We were cruising along and making our way to no hands. My legs were feeling pretty good, but I did notice they were also feeling a bit achy and tight. I took in some salt to hopefully help and the salt worked. I also took in a GU before starting the 3 mile climb up to Cool.

The trails winds itself along the road and at times I can see the road. During this stretch is when the darkness came over me and the negative thoughts for some random reason started to creep into my head. I had the toughest time pushing them out and trying to stay positive and on course. I really just wanted to turn around. My legs were more fatigued than I had originally thought. But I didn't let those thoughts get to me, I kept moving and I took in another GU to help.

We arrived at the Cool fire station and we both enjoyed a snack. Well, Traildog did that is. I gave him some puppy chow and some water and I used the bathroom and than packed everything up and started back to Auburn.

At this point I was feeling confident, relaxed and ready to rock this 3 mile descent. I took Traildog off his leash as I didn't want to get tangled up and off we went and he bolted down the trail like a dog on a mission. I kept my pace nice and relaxed and just focused on not trying to blow my quads up. Traildog was so focused on his own run that he took off on a side game trail and started bonding up the mountain. I called his name, he wouldn't come, I called again. Still nothing, than I whistled his tune and down he came like a very happy puppy coming to his owner. Only I wasn't very happy. Well I was at the fact that he finally came back down.

We continued down the trail, but this time Traildog had to stay behind me. He had lost his roaming privileges. I still kept him off leash but instructed him that he needed to keep behind me. He did just that for the remainder of the descent which I was very proud of him. He didn't once trip me up and he kept a nice and steady pace with mine.

At no hands I knew it was going to be interesting on the climb back up to the overlook. My legs once again were feeling funky and the effects of the downhill running plus having been working the last 6 days sure was taking a toll on them. I ran when I could and power hiked when needed. I was out here to enjoy myself and to get some trail miles in. I didn't need to go and push myself and end up injuring myself.

The run today was just what I needed. Even if it wasn't my best or fastest run it was just what I needed. It helped get the cob webs out. Today's run allowed me to focus on my body and to listen to my body. 14 miles is 14 miles. I enjoyed myself on the trail, I did a lot of thinking which is sometimes strange for me and I spent some great time with Traildog who by the way right now is resting comfortable on the couch as I type this not moving an inch.

Every run isn't going to be perfect and I am OK with that. Some runs well really be a struggle and it is those

I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings and neither can the resting Traildog! I am happy that I found the motivation to hit the trails this morning. I am happy that Traildog came along and I am happy that I am able to run.

Double Down Wednesday

2012-01-15T14:59:00.000-08:00

This week I wasn't sure if I would be able to complete my double down Wednesday with coach Nikon. Originally I had planned on watching Lil Man while my sister ran some errands. But come to find out those errands had been postponed until Thursday which meant double down was on again.

When I left work on Wednesday I bumped into Coach Nikon and we talked for a bit when out of nowhere I yelled out with enthusiasm "I can run with you tonight!" I was a bit excited as training by myself sometimes can be hard and I miss the company of my trail running friends. We made arrangements to meet at Cavitt as soon as he was off work for our run.

When I came home I immediately got Traildog ready and myself and out the door we went for 6. This was suppose to be a recovery run as my legs were really heavy and filled with lead. They were achy, but I was gambling that my legs would loosen up and all would be well. Traildog allowed me to dictate the pace this time as he was just happy being out and running.

We ended up doing 6 miles of recovery run and that is just what I needed. Once home I immediately ate something as I was pretty sure that I was running on fumes and than put my legs up as they were aching and everything was pretty tight.

When the time neared for Coach Nikon to text me that he was on his way I pulled out the foam roller and rolled to help loosen my legs up. My hamstrings and calves have been super tight and I was hoping that this would help my run for the second time this day.

Coach Nikon texted me and off I went to meet him at Cavitt. I left Traildog at home to rest. At Cavitt Captain Kirk and Wonder Woman were there and the four of us enjoyed a great run. My legs were feeling awesome and I was able to keep up with the those three. We enjoyed around 5.6 miles of fun. Catching each other up with our daily lives and how training is going.

It was really good for me to be running with my friends and I really enjoyed the company. All in all double down Wednesday was a big success as one I was able to run with my friends and two I got some nice miles in for the day. Roughly 12 miles for the day with the first 6 being a struggle and the last 5.6 feeling like I was running on air.

It always amazes me how much different running is when I run with friends. Thanks for the great run Coach Nikon, Captain Kirk and Wonder Woman. I really miss running with you guys. Until next time, keep on running!

Secret Weapon

2012-01-13T15:01:00.000-08:00

So, I have a secret weapon that really has helped me with my training and I am going to share it with. But I am sure some might have already guessed what the secret weapon is. Sometimes I find it hard to find the motivation to go out and run especially after a long stressful day at work. But this is who gets me out the door when I really don't want to.

My Secret Weapon after 14 trail miles

My little bundle of joy. He is full of energy and loves running. Those days when I really just don't want to run he is the one who gets me out the door and on the pavement and the trails.

This past weekend I took him out on the trails and he loved it. He was a very strong partner and really pushed me. He pushed me on the way out and also pushed me hard on the way back in. I found myself running harder and smoother on the trails. We were flying through the technical sections like it was nothing. He had me running 9 min miles. I guess all our week day "tempo" runs is really helping.

Being a little shy

We hit our turnaround in 1:11, we had gone 7 miles. Not bad for a trail run. At the turnaround we each enjoyed our snacks. I had a raspberry cream power gel and Traildog enjoyed some puppy chow and some water.

We headed back and I practiced him off leash. He did a really good job and would run ahead and than stop to make sure I was still behind him. One time I stopped so he couldn't see me and he came running back to me wondering where I was.

On the return he pushed the pace. We were running the hills and flying on the descents. He would lock onto the back of my feet and just keep running. I could feel him right behind me and I knew I couldn't slow down. He was pushing me and on the last mile we were running a 7:56 time on the return was 1:10 with a total time of 2:21. Not bad, and there are some nice hills out there by Cavitt.

Can we run again

We both really had a great time and when we were finished his little tale was wagging. He enjoyed some more puppy chow and when he was finished he wanted to hit the trails again.

He is my secret weapon because when I come home I can't sit down, I have to change and go run with Traildog. Running with Traildog he has pushed the pace and he keeps me honest with my training program. I don't miss a run and neither does he.

In fact the next day after running 14 miles on the trail we headed back to Cavitt and ran 12 miles. It wasn't as fast as the day before but none the less we were both out there running our hearts out. What a great weekend and I wouldn't have it any other way.

A Unexpected Day With Lil Man

2012-01-08T06:30:00.000-08:00

On Thursday my brother in law called me and asked me if I could watch a sick Lil man. Now, I had only been up for maybe 15 minutes. I had had enough time to make coffee, use the bathroom, let Traildog out, and sit on the couch and check my email when the phone rang. It was maybe 6:30 in the morning.

I of course said yes, I could watch Lil Man. I mean I am the best auntie as I am on the nice list as Lil Man puts it. I enjoyed my coffee, took a really quick shower and packed up my gear as I was planning on running once mom came home and I also packed up Traildog. I didn't think it would be right to leave him at home when he could enjoy his time at his old house.

Off to Lil Man's I go. Once I arrived I was told that he was thrilled to hear that I was going to be watching him. Right away I knew what was going to happen that day. Lil Man was going to take it easy and try and rest up while I was going to vacuum the house and the couches. While I was getting ready to clean Lil Man began to clean up his room. Let me tell you it was a disaster. Once his room was clean he helped me with the couches. He really is a good helper.

Is this right Meme?

I think it is clean!

Lil Man enjoyed some T.V. while I mopped and moved all the couches so I could get under them. Than it was time for him to get dressed and we actually headed out back to play for a bit. We played basketball, he showed me how he could drive his jeep without hitting anything. It was pretty cool to watch he would go forward than go back wards avoiding any obstacle in his path.

Showing me his mad driving skills

Trying to dunk it

After playing out back we decided to take Traildog for a walk around the block. I talked Lil Man into riding his buzz light year big boy bike. He was really timed on the first trip around and wanted to get off to walk his bike down the ~~really big hill~~ little hill that I could barely notice. On the second trip though he was zooming and stayed on his bike going down the hill.

Heading out for our walk, fighting for the lead.

It was a pretty active day now that I am thinking about it. But his cough was under control and his nose wasn't running all over the place. And he wanted to be active. Once home we put up his tent and he and traildog played it in than Lil Man had this bright idea to RUN traildog around the house. It worked until Traildog would see me and put the brakes on and when that happened you could see Lil Man stop in tracks.

It was a great day, I am glad I was able to help out my family as that is what family is for. I can't wait for Wednesday as I will again be watching Lil Man. It is a good feeling when he asks his parents every day if he can come over to my place.

After watching Lil Man I visited with my sister for a bit and than headed out for a really easy 3 mile run. I left Traildog at home as I thought he needed a rest day. My legs during this run were super heavy and fully loaded. It took everything I had to just go the 3 miles. Thank goodness for my massage later on that day. Lily worked some serious magic on me as everything was really tight. So tight that when she tried to move my arm it could hardly move the direction she needed it. She always fixes me and seems to always have a spot for me especially since I call so last minute. Thank you Lily for working your magic and thank you Lil Man for such a awesome day.

Such happy boys!

Double Down Wednesday

2012-01-06T16:20:00.000-08:00

This post is a bit late, but I have been super busy the past few days. But double down Wednesday did happen. In the morning Traildog and I ran with a friend. We ran on the AR course and hit the bluffs and trails along the other side of the lake that I usually run along each day. Traildog was excited to be out and running. He loves his daily run, in fact he loves it so much I decided to switch him back to puppy chow to get some more calories in him. He eats at least 3 times if not 4 times a day and he still looking good.

Traildog took off like a bat out of hell. He was on a mission and that mission was to run as fast as I could keep up and not slow down. I have tried to have a conversation with him about pace and to not go out to hard. But he didn't listen. I can't really slow him down. He is a Traildog on the mission.

On this morning run we were on the trails and about 10 feet in front of me a animal ran across the trail. Traildog didn't slow down, or even look in the direction it went. I yelled back to my friend if she saw that animal that just ran across the trial and she said no. I stopped in my tracks and started a slow walk keeping my eyes to the right where the animal went. I wasn't sure what it was and than I saw it. It was nice big coyote. The coyote was eyeballing us as we walked by. Traildog did nothing, didn't even acknowledge his presence. Traildog just wanted to get back to running and that is what we did after I pointed the coyote out to my friend.

We kept on cruising along and the day warmed up. We hit the turn around and started back. I noticed that Traildog was slowing down a bit. He would also cut in front of me and slow down which in turn caused me to slow down. Then I noticed that my walk was faster than his run. He was trying with all his might to keep going, because he really wanted to. I stopped and let him rest. After the brief stop he took off again and I did what I could to keep up. Then the entire cycle started over again. He would run in front of me and slow down. Eventually I found both of us walking as I didn't want to run him into the ground.

He has been putting in a lot of miles and I try to regulate his rest days and how many miles he does. We eventually made it back to the car. Once back at the car he was wagging his tail and was happy as could be. I think if I had let him he would have gone back out again. What a trooper and a good little runner he is. We ended up doing 9.5 miles that morning.

Traildog resting after his run in the sun!

Once home he immediately went to sleep after I feed him his puppy chow. Now usually he will rest next to me in the same room either on his bed or on the couch next to me. But not this time, he went straight to the bedroom and was out for the rest of the day. I let him sleep as he needed it.

This is where he spent the rest of the day.

The second run on the day I was meeting Coach Nikon at Karen's Bakery in Folsom. I just ran from my house and met him. We headed over the bridge and hit the parkway. We ended up doing roughly 5 miles. I always enjoy these runs because it gives us both a chance to catch up on each other trainings and how things are going not running related.

My legs still felt pretty good, but I also noticed how tight my body was. I couldn't even remember the last time I had gotten a massage. It had been that long. Overall I was please with my mileage thus far for the day as I had just gotten in 7.5 miles that evening and in three days had logged 26 miles. Not bad. I did leave Traildog at home as he was still resting.

Next Wednesday I probably wont be able to meet up with Coach Nikon as I am watching my nephew Lil Man and might just run around my old route to get my miles in.

It was a great Double Down Wednesday logging a total of 17 miles.

Lil Man Comes Over

2012-01-04T06:40:00.000-08:00

It has started to slow down a bit at work, but not much. In my position it never slows down. Freight is always coming and payroll is always getting tighter. Of course this week I did screw up, I totally miss read a trailer schedule and ended up with two trailers on my dock door. But someone was looking out for me as we managed to get a cancel and that allowed me to catch back up. Now I have never made that mistake before and I am a bit embarrassed that it happened, but I am human and stuff happens. Now the real lesson in all of this is....well it happen again? No, it better not.

With that near miss I have been looking forward to actually having two days off in a row. Now, that may not seem like much but when I go to work at 1:30am and get up at midnight one day off just doesn't seem to cut it as I don't adjust my schedule. So having two days off is going to be a slice of pumpkin pie. But get this, not only do I have two days off in a row I actually have four days off in a row. WOW!!! What to do? What to do? Now that is the question and I have the answer. I will be running of course!

But before all of that happens yesterday was a very special day. Lil Man came over to my new place and stayed the afternoon with me. He was super excited. I have been telling him he should bring some of his toys over and put them in the "playroom" so that he has some things of his when he comes and visit. Now, when he walked up I wasn't expecting to some the toys he brought over. He had the biggest smile on his face when he walked up. He brought over his new loopy loop with a zip line *say that three time fast* his fire truck, dump truck, some castle thing, his lady but tent (really??? his tent?) and a shoe box of assortment toys, plus a bat and ball. I am sure there are other things he brought. It is almost like he was moving in. My sister told me that she actually had to stop him as he kept wanting to bring more toys. I am sure he would have brought them all if he could.

The new race track!

Not only did he bring over some of his toys, but being best auntie in the entire world I picked up a new toy for all both my nephews to play with. I picked up the cars race track and surprised him by having it put together when he arrived. When he opened the door I could hear him fill with room with laughter and delight. He was super excited and really wanted to play with it. I am sure this new race track will get some great use from all the little ones and adults alike. I also picked up his own set of plates and cups and he like them.

Snack Time!

During our special day together I had all sorts of surprises line up for him. When he wanted his snack of cheese its I told him there was another surprise in the fridge. He opened it up and what did he find, but chocolate milk and I even had marshmallows to with it. After snack time and some play time on the new race track it was off to Old Folsom for get some candy from the Snook's Candy Factory. He loved this trip. We even saw the train (RT Transit) go by on the way.

Oh yeah! Candy

Time to enjoy

Yum! Yes, he didn't get any chocolate

He picked out his own candy and payed for it and then enjoyed it. He was nice to offer me some. After his treat we walked down Sutter Street and made our way into the Karma Cafe where he ordered his own hot Chocolate and I enjoyed a very tasty Americano. In fact it was the best cup of coffee I have had. While we enjoyed our drinks we played some Chess. It was Lil Man's first time and I haven't played in a very long time. He beat me, but I don't think he was playing by the rules.

Time for some chess

When it was time to head home he walked up to the counter and told the worker this "I am sorry, I couldn't finish my hot chocolate. Can I have a to go cup with a lid please?" I thought that was the most adorable thing. He really is growing up.

That is one way to drink it!

Once back home we relaxed on the couch and we played with the race track and enjoyed some cartoons. I would say we both had a fantastic time and I can't wait to do it again. Ohh and Lil Man even told me this, "Meme, you are on the good list!" How great is that. Now to enjoy my days off and hit up some great trails!

A Day Filled With Surprises!

2011-12-31T15:38:00.000-08:00

Today marks the end of 2011, and what a year it was. I can not wait to see what 2012 brings.

Today I was surprised at work. My sister and Lil Man dropped by to do some shopping and also to say hi. Lil Man is very excited about his game night. He picked up a new video game for the WI, his Christmas present from Grandpa Al.

Not only did they surprise me at work but they even surprised me by stopping by the new place and having lunch with me. Lil Man was super excited to see ~~my new place....~~Traildog. Traildog was so excited to have company. Although he was a bit upset when we left to eat lunch.

After lunch we came back to my place and played a bit. When it was time for him to go he just wanted 5 more minutes. I think next Tuesday when he comes over for a few hours he is going to have a blast. He loved "his playroom" and even thanked me for it. The funny part was I don't have any toys and that is the first thing he asked me. Hey, Meme where are the toys? My answer, You didn't bring any over.

After the great lunch and visit Traildog and I headed out for our last run for 2011. We ended up doing only 6 miles. My legs were feeling a bit off, or maybe it had something to do with the rather large lunch I had an hour before.

Out on our run I was also surprised once again by running into a Trail Turtle Shannon and Ralph. They were both out enjoying a nice bike ride. I visited with Ralph for a bit and learned that we both live near each other and we both frequent The Beer Garden. We will most definitely need to get together for a drink or two.

Today seemed like it was full of surprises. Sometimes that is just what is needed, just like yesterday Coach Nikon and Lily stopped by work and I was given the best hugs by them. Again a pleasant surprise. What a way to end 2011.

Happy New Year Everyone!!!

Guilted into Running

2011-12-29T10:17:00.000-08:00

Have you ever had one of those days when you get home and you just aren't feeling it. You really don't want to go for a run. The couch looks so inviting. Yup, that was me yesterday. Wednesday after work when I came home I really wasn't feeling my run. I was tired, my stomach was growling and I was so hungry that I felt sick. My legs were tired and I really just wanted to put my legs up and relax.

But I didn't. Lil Traildog wouldn't let me. He sat down in front of me and wagged his little tale and than would sit in front of his leash wagging his tale. He really wanted to go for his run. Talk about pressure. So I did what any good parent would do, I ate something, changed my clothes and laced up my shoes grabbed his leash and off we went. We ended up doing 6 miles.

What I really wanted to do was a recovery run. A very nice and easy run, but Traildog being the little spite fire that he is pushed the pace and I did whatever I could to keep up. This run wasn't going to be easy. Traildog pushed me and pushed me. He was having the time of his life. He loves being out and running and enjoys his daily runs with me.

Of course I was happy that Traildog pushed me to get out the door and happy that he pushed the pace. I do believe that he has the running bug and that makes me happy. I always enjoy when we get back how quickly he goes and lays down. He is usually out the rest of the day/evening. Sleeping soundly and I am sure dreaming of next big adventure with his mom.

I was guilted into running, but I am glad we went out. It has been tough on him ever since we moved out as he doesn't have someone home with him all the time and running gives him the exercise he needs and gives us some quality time together. I have to keep him happy and he keeps me happy!

Santa Came and Santa Went

2011-12-28T13:57:00.000-08:00

Christmas for me is very hectic, well I am sure that it is very busy for everyone. For me this year I was working Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Luckily our family get together wasn't until mid day on Christmas day. Since I was working both those days I asked my boss for the day after Christmas off. It only made sense and seemed fair or else I wouldn't have been able to enjoy this Holiday. He said yes, which meant I would be able to see my little nephews open their presents and see their excitement and also see the meltdowns followed by more excitement and more meltdowns. But it was totally worth it.

Christmas day I headed over to my sister house with Traildog so that we could spend a little time together plus I wanted Lil Man to open his present and enjoy it as we wouldn't be able to take it with us. He was very excited when I arrived and immediately asked me if he could open the biggest present. I of course said yes, but first I told him I had a special surprise. His excitement was building and I could feel his anxiousness. I told him that Santa Claus came to my house and dropped off a present for him. He became very excited at this point and ran around the house literally in circles because he was overjoyed. Santa not only came to his house but my house as well!

He looked at me and said "He came through the front door, right?" Yup, that is correct he came through the door as I don't have a chimney and Lil Man had remembered that conversation and my fear that Santa would skip my house. But he didn't. He showed up with presents in hand. Lil Man opened his "gift from Santa" and wanted to watch it right away. Lil Man had received The Smurfs movie. you see when I let Lil Man one time watch t.v. in my room the smurfs were on and ever since than when he asks to watch t.v. in my room he always wants to watch the smurfs. How did Santa know????

After that he opened his biggest present of all.......a little tike's basketball hoop. I immediately went to work putting it together, I only had to take it apart once as I put it together wrong. We took it outside and Lil Man showed me his Michael Jordan moves......I think he liked it!

He couldn't wait to open his present!

His shirt is right for the present!

Look he is dunking it already!

Check out that air!

The best one yet!

Next we all piled into the car and headed up to Vacaville to celebrate with my other sister and my nephew Q. When we arrived I told Q that Santa had come to my house and dropped off a present for him. When Q heard this he was so excited that he jumped up and down clapping his hands and than he ran in a circle he was so excited. Santa thought that since my sister was very neat and organized and doesn't like messes that playdo would be the best thing for Q. He was super excited while my sister may not have been. Santa Loves you! hehehe......

Q gift from Santa

I think he is happy!

Q also received some Cars toys from the movie as he is really into it now. I believe that Cars the movie was his first movie that he actually sat down for the entire show. Both nephews loved their gifts from their Meme and best of all I enjoyed being with them and my family.

just chillaxin!

ahh mom and son!

I ended being up for 22 hours before I went to bed. Would I do it again? You bet, as seeing them so excited over their Santa gifts and running around and screaming because of their excitement was worth it. Christmas was all about the nephews and being with my family and playing pass the phone around! I wouldn't have changed a thing.

I almost forgot about the music we made!

Double Down Wednesday

2011-12-22T06:07:00.000-08:00

Double down Wednesday was actually a lot of fun. The first run was a quick 6 miler with Traildog. I love Traildog so much, he keeps me honest as all I really wanted to do was come home from work and sit on the couch with my legs up as my days this week have been stressful. But he knew the right thing for me us was to hit the trails and enjoy the cool mid day sun on our faces and the light breeze on our backs.

That is what we did we headed out and I can't believe how well my legs have been responding. The legs are feeling strong, the tight hamstrings I have been having trouble with are feeling a lot better. I would like to chalk that up to the dedicated foam rolling I have been doing before and after my runs along with some light stretching. It is working as the hamstrings are feeling free once again and my form is coming back.

My legs are feeling good the leg turnover is there and you know what else I was enjoying the run. My mind was free and clear for once. All the chaos and craziness that happens at work this time of year was gone. It was peaceful and just what I needed to recharge to get through the final two days of mad crazy holiday shopping.

After our awesome 6 mile run I called up Coach Nikon and we decided to hit the trails for a nice 5 mile run before the Fleet Feet Ultra Training Group had there workout. Sadly I am not apart of that great group this year as my work schedule really wasn't able to work around it. I really wish I was still apart of that group as I have learned so much and the friendships I have made will always be.

I decided to leave Traildog home for this run, as I didn't want to push his body. But I will say, he really wanted to come and it broke my heart to leave him home in a nice warm cozy house. I ran to Karen's Bakery which was about 1.27 miles and hooked up with Coach Nikon. We caught up on our lives as we hadn't really spent anytime together in awhile. He told me about his "movie drama" at work as he put it. And as I listened to his story it totally was a scene from a gangster movie. I laughed so hard that is until I saw the Pigeons.

We were running across the bridge and I was near the outside and I looked up and literally inches away from face were 2 huge Pigeons. I immediately jumped across the narrow path and almost threw Coach Nikon into the pigeons. I think I almost jumped the barrier, but I didn't. Coach Nikon just started laughing uncontrollable and both of us thought of our good friend Trailmomma. Ohh how I miss running with her. I just had a Trailmomma moment!

We continued on our run, all the while I was on the lookout for the 2 Pigeons to come and attack me at any moment. At the start of this run my legs felt a bit heavy but they soon loosened up and we hit a nice stride and soon we were turning around. On the return we talked about upcoming races as I haven't really put my 2012 plan together. Or I should say I haven't written it down, I think I know what I want to do but I am not positive.

Back at Karen's Bakery I waited around and said to Hi to some of the runner group and of course everyone asked where Traildog was. Next time I will bring him. As they started their run I headed home as our paths were going the same way. I peeled off at my left hand turn and ended up with 13.5 miles for the day in my first of many Double Down Wednesday's.

With my work schedule I have to find a way to get the miles in when I can and doubling up on work outs one day a week is the plan. Plus I get a chance to run with someone as I don't run much with my friends. Again that darn work schedule. Thanks Coach Nikon for a great run and I hope that we can continue to Double Down on Wednesday.

Lil Man and Traildog Together Again....For a bit at Least

2011-12-21T14:16:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I was off. I enjoyed a quick 6 mile run in the chilly morning, than I started and finished my Christmas shopping and I even wrapped the presents. Next it was time for "Meme time!" with Lil Man, my best bud. Of course Traildog was invited to come along as Lil Man has really missed him. This is how the phone conversation went on Monday:

Me: You want me to bring Traildog?
Lil Man: YEAH!!!! Make sure you bring his harness, his collar and his leash!
Me: OK, I wont forget......Only I did forget something and he noticed!

Traildog, minutes before we were leaving. I don't think he was ready!

Being a good boy in the car!

I can't believe he is telling me what I need to pack for Traildog, how cute! Anyways off Toby and I went to enjoy some Lil Man time. I arrived early and let Toby play in the backyard while I unloaded the car with the presents. What a neat surprise I hope.

Ramsie enjoying her bone, Lil Man thought she managed to get into a Christmas present and told her she was suppose to wait for Christmas! He is all about the rules.

Traildog even got in on that bone action.

Lil Man found his present, I wonder what it could be?

It has been awhile since I have watched Lil Man and boy have I forgotten how slow time can go. Now don't get me wrong, I love my nephew, and I even had the entire hour planned out, I just didn't realize how quickly we would blow through the activities.

First up it was time to play with Traildog out side. We threw his ball and Lil Man wanted to play with his ball. So we bounced it back and forth until he thought it would be great idea to get as close as he could and hit me with it.

Look at Traildog go, he even ran 6 miles earlier that day! Full of energy and life.

Then it was time for some more ball with Traildog and he also needed to mow the yard. He grabbed his lawn mower and cruised around the yard. He is a good worker.

Mowing the yard!

He is a good helper

After all that work it was time for hot chocolate mile with marshmallows! He loves this special treat and it is an expectation anytime it is Meme time. I think it is our special thing, even though I don't drink milk. He even received extra marshmallows, but please don't tell mom.

He had been waiting for this all day!

Big smile, I think he got some chocolate milk on his fingers

Next, we headed back out side where he told me he had to get to work. His job he told me is he fixes things. He loaded up his jeep, with this super long PVC pipe and drove around the yard to his work. After successfully parking and avoiding damaging anything with the rather large load he was ready to fix the pipe. Together we fixed the pipe and put it in place. It was a tough job and somebody had to do it. After a tough job it was time for a break and a rest on the lawn chair.

Driving his load to "work"

Very serious when he is driving

While he rested for a bit I played with Traildog. All this activity we did within the first 15 minutes. But never fear, I had a plan. Afterwards we headed back inside to run around the house with Traildog and than we enjoyed a short show. During this time span he looked at Traildog and yelled out "Meme! Traildog doesn't have his collar! I told you to bring it." Yes, Lil Man was right, I left it at home. Sorry Lil Man, you did tell me to bring it.

Hanging with Traildog

It was great to visit with Lil Man and enjoy some special Meme time. In two weeks we have another day planned, but this time he is coming over to my new place. Guess I need to buy some chocolate milk for him. Thanks Lil Man for a great afternoon, it really made my day!

Traildog had a great visit and I can't wait for Lil Man to come visit us!

Surfin Santa

2011-12-19T20:38:00.000-08:00

This past Wednesday was Lil Man Christmas program at his pre-school. He had a very special part and front row seats were reserved for his family. This year, I wasn't going to miss out on his Christmas program like I did last year. This year I sat front row and center to enjoy his program.

He had to show me his Candy House!

The teacher's at his school have been working with the students since before Halloween. It is amazing how many songs the little kids memorized. That is dedication on the teachers part and also on the students part.

Mom (my sister) and Lil Man!

Lil Man spilled the beans and told me what his special part was.....or maybe I should say I asked
so many questions that he told me. What???? I wanted to know!

The entire School!

This year he was to be the surfin Santa. He was very excited about it. The teachers later told us he was picked because he was so animated and was the least likely to get shy in front of all the parents and family. They were right, he is very animated and talking to him is always exciting because I never know what he is going to say or how vocal he will get about it.

The program consisted of 9 songs: Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer
                                                        What a World We'd Have
                                                         Jingle Bells
                                                         The Angel Band
                                                         The Merry Hula
                                                         Must Be Santa
                                                         I'm Gettin Nuttin' For Christmas
                                                         Christmas Time's A Comin
                                                         We Wish You A Merry Christmas

Lil Man the surfin Santa!

Listening to Lil Man and his classmates really got me in the Holiday Spirit, and I thought they did awesome. I am so proud of him. I enjoyed it so much that all the stress from earlier had melted away and I was left with a open heart, a smile on my face, and a laughter throughout.

Me and Lil Man

He was serious about ringing the bells. "Are you ringing your bell?"

Thank you Lil Man for such a special evening and I can't wait to celebrate Christmas with the family!

Wildlife Sunday

2011-12-11T13:26:00.000-08:00

Within 16 minutes of my trail run this morning the four of us, Captain Kirk, Wonder Woman, and Power Girl had seen a huge buck, than a herd of Turkeys, than on the left maybe 5 feet from the trail a huge mama bear and her rather large cub and than not 10 feet later another mama bear and her 2 cubs. That was 5 bears!

The best phrase I have ever heard, "Quick, everyone grab a rock!"

This was all within 16 minutes of our run. We started our run at the Cool fire station and the plan was to do the Olmsted Loop and hook up with the secret trail than back on the Olmsted Loop. Only we hadn't planned on seeing 5 bears. I was taking up the rear, as the other three are super fast, but I did manage to somewhat keep them in my sights.

As I was running in my own little world I see two runners coming up the hill, at first I didn't know who they were as my friends didn't need to stop for me at this point as we were on a fire road. Than I realized it was Power Girl and Wonder Woman sprinting up the tiny hill. Then I heard the words "BEAR!!!" Captain Kirk was busy making loud noises as us girls were keeping our distance. Than I saw the cub and the gigantic mama bear not 20 yards off the trail. Wonder Woman told me the bears when they came upon them were maybe 5 feet from the trail.

As we approached Captain Kirk I heard him say "Quick everyone grab a rock!" Wonder Woman and I grab the biggest rocks we could find, but small enough that we could throw them if we needed too. Captain Kirk had picked up three rocks and Power Girl picked up a medium size rock. Wonder Woman and I weren't taking any chances. As we ran by we tossed our rocks thinking we were in the clear and we were nervously laughing and talking about the experience when on our right maybe 10 feet from the first bear sighting we saw another bear. Dang it and we already dropped our rocks.

As we slowed to a walk Captain Kirk yelled a bit, and than I heard him say "Ohh crap there are two cubs, lets get out of here!!!" and off we went, sprinting as fast as we could. This group of bears were not going to back down, a huge black bear and two rather large brown cubs.

As we ran away, we again started laughing and joking around, I made the comment that next time we should all throw our fuel! I have had beer encounters before, SNER 50 miler but nothing like this. This was way more intense I mean 5 bears within the first 16 minutes. Crazy!!!

I knew that this was going to be a great run. When Captain Kirk is leading the charge we always have great adventures on the trails. I am just glad I was with others.

As our run continued on I slowly started fading, as I couldn't keep up with them. They were kind enough to wait/or yell which direction they went. That is the great thing about the ultra community and running with some great friends. My legs started to ache as the hills became more intense. I thought maybe I was low on salt so I took a salt tab and that seemed to help right away. I still could run the downhills pretty well and I just knew that I needed to slow the pace down and listen to my body because it was telling me it wasn't liking what was going on.

The miles seemed to tick by pretty fast, or it might have just been me. I was really enjoying the single track and the greenness of the bushes and the stillness of being in nature. Ever so often I would here the scuffling of birds and a bird even caused me to yell. I was a bit jittery after the bear encounter.

As we neared the home stretch I was still smiling and was just enjoying being on the trails. I have missed them as I have been staying close to home. I couldn't have asked for better running conditions today and I wouldn't have changed a thing. Being able to run with good friends is price less and better yet being able to experience seeing 5 bears with my friends is extraordinary and I am sure that we will never forget today's run. I know I wont.

Thank you Captain Kirk, Wonder Woman and Power Girl for a solid 14 miles.

Catching Up

2011-12-08T14:32:00.000-08:00

I have been without Internet for the past week. It actually wasn't that bad....umm what am I kidding. I totally missed on keeping up with some of my favorite blogs not to mention facebook. But I am back and in full operation plus it is wireless now, so much better, I am a happy little trail runner now.

I have been running, Traildog has been running. In fact this brisk morning we completed 14 miles on the trails and pavement near the lake. When I started this morning I actually had no plan on what I was going to do, no fuel and no water, but there is water fountains through out the run so I wasn't too worried about it.

Traildog started us off on a mad dash and I did everything I could to keep up, I looked down at my Garmin and noticed I was running sub 8:00 minute miles. I guess all this running with Traildog has really increased my pace. The ~~crazy and fast runs~~ I mean the tempo runs Traildog makes me do have really increased my speed. It felt really comfortable and my legs felt great. So great in fact that I just kept going past the 3 mile turn around, so great that I kept going past the 5 mile turn around. But once I hit the 7 mile mark in 1:03 I knew I should head back in. Not for my case but for Traildog as I didn't want him to have a serious bonk, plus this is the furthest he has run since the 12.3 around the lake a few weeks ago.

On the return my legs were still feeling great, but I knew I needed to slow the pace down for Traildogs sake. He was locked on my heel, his gaze was telling me that he needed a little break. After his little break of a slower pace he increased his speed and we took off. We arrived at the 14 mile mark in 2:07. I was pretty excited because I felt like I could have kept going and my legs didn't feel stiff. Traildog looked tired and after I feed him again, he immediately went and layed down and he is still sleeping 4 hours later. Such a good boy. Glad I was able to get the miles which brings my weekly mileage up to 25 miles with three more days to go!!!!

Saturday is the LOTTERY for Western States. I am super excited about heading up to Placerville to be there. I have instructions from Coach Nikon to text him with names of our running friends who get in and especially to text him if he gets in or I get in.

Lots going on, work has been super busy, but I haven't let that slow me down. I am more focused than ever. I am also eating a lot more which I think is a good thing. I eat a bagel for breakfast, a few hours later I have been eating a Turkey sandwich, a few hours after that a snack like goldfish or an apple, than it is dinner time. I am glad that I have finally figured out how to get food in me while being at work. All though sometimes I am eating the sandwich that I find myself walking and eating. But at least it is fuel, to get me through my long days.

Looking forward to the Lottery this weekend and my last weekend off until January. Ohh how I will miss two days off in a row. But I will find a way to get my runs in as Traildog expects me too.

Randomness

2011-12-01T12:32:00.000-08:00

My place is close to this awesome Beer Garden/Pub. It serves some great food and has a pretty awesome beer selection. I think I go there about once a week. What can I say, I like the place and it is close. Last night I headed over there and met my cousin whom I haven't seen in a few years. Ever so often we contact each other and check in and than time goes by and than next thing I know she is calling me to see how things are going.

Wednesday night at the Beer Garden is Flip for your Dinner. Basically the waitress flips a coin heads you pay, tails it is on the house. Last night we WON!!!! Free FOOD!!!! We only had to pay for our drinks. How awesome is that. The food is fantastic and not expensive. I can drink two beers and enjoy a pulled pork sandwich with fries for under $20. Not bad I think.

It has a huge outdoor seating area, pool tables, I think Foosball and NFL all day on Sunday. It's a neat place and I know I will be back for sure.

My cousin and I caught up for a good 3 hours just talking and enjoy each other company. My cousin is really easy going and full of life and when she walks into a room you (I) can feel her awesome energy. We picked up right where we left off. I hadn't seen her in at least 2 years. The last time I saw her I was training for my first 50 miler. Seems ages ago.

It was awesome to catch up and I really can't wait for the next time we get together. It is nice to get out every now and than for me and with my hectic schedule it makes it even harder to see any of my friends or family.

Today I actually slept in and enjoyed a relaxing morning just lounging around with no particular schedule. After lounging for a few hours I treated Traildog to a quick 10 mile run along the parkway. I think I exhausted him because as soon as we came home he is sound asleep on his bed right next to me.

The run for me was awesome. My leg turnover is getting quicker and I can feel my motivation coming back. I know I haven't logged anything longer then 12 miles but it is down time for me and I am recharging my batteries. I will say this, I can't wait to hit the trails with my friends once all this crazy retail holiday season slows down.

I think it was smart of me to take a few months off and just focus on the basic and run what I wanted. I have had a few high mileage weeks which is great and I can feel that spark coming back and the twinkle in my eye is shinning. Running is great for me and I am very lucky that I found it with the help of my friends.

I am patiently waiting for December 10th to come. The LOTTERY is slowly approaching and I can't wait to find out. I am looking forward to my race schedule next year and I know that there will be a 100 miler on the docket!

Running Once Again

2011-11-30T14:18:00.000-08:00

The past two weeks I have been busy, but I also managed to get some solid miles in. I live so close to the American River Parkway that it is now so convenient and easy for me and Traildog to go for a run. He is my inspiration and he wont let me not go for a run. How can I resist those big brown puppy dog eyes. I just can't.

It has been good for both us. I was beginning to get in a bit of funk and was having a hard time pulling myself out of it. But once I started running consistently, slowly things became clearer and my haze lifted and I was once again moving with a purpose.

It has been tough for both of us during these past few weeks, finding new routines and not seeing Lil Man everyday has been even tougher. But we are growing and slowly finding our mark once again.

Traildog has gone out on every run with me and he is quickly getting trim. I mean he wasn't "big" before but I can tell a difference in him. He is so excited when we run and so relaxed when we get back. The longest run he has done is 12.3 which is around the lake. Not bad for Traildog.

Traildog is also finally adjusting to his new place. We are slowly getting things settled in and unpacked, but what ever you do please don't open the spare bedroom! I think the one thing I find the hardest is cooking for one. I find that I am eating the same thing day in and day out, or sometimes I just don't eat dinner. I am bringing my lunch to work for the most part and I am enjoying the semi quiet time. I didn't realize how sleep deprived I actually was. I remember sleeping but, wow I can't believe how great it is to sleep for a solid chunk of time. This past week though my schedule has been so hectic that it doesn't really count. It's a good thing I know how to work on minimal amount of sleep.

I am looking forward to my new adventures and getting through this Holiday Season. I am also looking forward to the LOTTERY on December 10. That is next weekend. Dec. 10 is when I find out if I get into Western States or if I am waiting another year. What ever happens it was meant to be.....but I really want to run States!

Here is to fighting the funk, to getting some sleep, and to adjustments. Keep on running, I know I will.

Thanksgiving Craziness!

2011-11-27T07:23:00.000-08:00

I made it through Black Friday and the day after. It wasn't pretty at times but I did it. I was sleep deprived in a span of 32.5 hours I only managed to get 2 hours of short nap and than right before heading in Thursday night a 20 minute power nap.

Thursday I arrived at work at 1am with a team to complete all the 2 day prep. Staging product to ensure a quick and efficient replenishment process. Once we were done with the task list it was close to 9:45am. My family was planning on a evening Thanksgiving dinner so that worked because now I could go home and get some sleep. Only there was a few minor problems. One I so wired from work that I couldn't calm down no matter what I tried. My mind was spinning out of control, with thoughts like....did I prep enough, did I over prep, what if I missed something...no I think remembered everything. It was frustrating. I finally managed to lay down and close my eyes but it wasn't a restful sleep. I was tossing and turning, the kids playing outside were screaming at the top of their lungs and it was hopeless. I finally got up around noon, with only a few hours. I than headed over to family house to have some family time and to play with both of my nephews.

I arrived at my sisters house with Traildog, he is family and I wasn't going to leave him at home. The nephews were super excited to see me. They came running down the hallway and about knocked me over to give me a hug, than they did the same thing to Traildog. It was great to hang out with the family even though I was on such little sleep. I have missed a few family get together in the past years because of work and I was tired of it. We enjoyed a great dinner and even better conversations. In fact my oldest sister wants to do a 5k with me. How great is that?

I headed home to get ready for work and ended taking a 20 minute power nap in the sitting position on my couch. I was so exhausted I didn't even set an alarm. I woke up and headed into work drinking a red bull on the way. Now typically I do not drink energy drinks but this was the exception to the rule. Survival!

The line at work was wrapped around the building. It was going to be crazy. Once the doors opened and the craziness began it was non stop. My team did an awesome job with keeping the floors full and quickly replenishing the end caps and helping out all the guests. It took an hour to get everyone who was standing in line into the building. The checkout line wrapped/snaked it's way up and down the aisles and around the store. It was utter chaos, but controlled chaos. I don't think I sat down that morning at all. I believe that my plans for my Logistics team were executed nicely, the packets I made for them on what they were doing each hour and when to take their breaks and lunches really allowed me to focus on other things. I knew they would do a great job and they completely exceeded my expectations. It was a busy day, but a day that with great plans went really smoothly.

After work I arrived home around 7am ish on Friday morning. I immediately dropped my things at the front door took care of Traildog and made my way to bed. I awoke around 2 that afternoon but was feeling rather funky still. My head was still foggy and I was exhausted. I stayed up until 4pm and went back to bed only to wake up at 11pm that night to head back to work to tackle our doubles. Those trailers brought in more freight than I have ever seen in my 11 years working there. It was literally three trailers in two. It was so much workload that I had pushed my team to their breaking point and they still completed the task. It was a crazy day, and to top it off P-Fresh arrived three hours late and it was huge. The biggest load I have seen since the opening of P-Fresh. I am lucky that I have a experienced team I am lucky that I thrive on challenges and it brings me to a whole new level. I am also lucky that I have a day off and get to rest and recovery before heading back first thing Monday morning.

I am looking forward to my afternoon today with a good friend and of course Traildog. I am looking forward to spending some time with my nephew and I am looking forward to actually making my new place feel like home.

New Routines

2011-11-22T11:47:00.000-08:00

It's been a bit since my last post. So Traildog is finally settling in nicely. We are both getting on new routines which is what I need. I was a bit off when I first moved in and I could feel my center falling, which is not good. With our new routines in place we are set for now.

Traildog and I head out for a run almost every day. I get home from work and he is very excited to see me. Once our hello's are made he stares at his leach and wags his tail. I immediately change and we both head out for our afternoon run of 6 miles. Last week we both logged 40 miles. That is the highest mileage week I have had since mid September.

At first, when I started running again it was tough. It felt like my body had forgotten how to run. My legs ached, I was stiff and it was tough. But I knew I had to stick with it and I needed to give Traildog some really good exercise. He loved it and would keep pushing the pace. Maybe that was the problem it was too fast. But as the week came to end everything started to click. My leg turnover was getting quicker it was easier to breath and the pace was getting faster. I knew it would be tough to start really running again, but I am glad I stuck with it.

Traildog just chilling at Fleet Feet after his 10 mile run!

This week is going to be tough to get any sort of strong mileage in. I already have 20 miles for week, but that is back to back 10 milers. I know work is going to be crazy busy and my schedule is even crazier. Basically on Thursday which is Thanksgiving I work from around 2 am to 9am and head home sleep some and return to work that night around 11ishpm and work until Friday morning. I am hoping I can make it over to my sisters house for Thanksgiving dinner.

I also put my name in for Western States 100. I really want to complete a 100 mile run this year.

Tough Adjustment for Traildog

2011-11-17T05:13:00.000-08:00

What have been up to this past week? Well, working so everything else like unpacking and getting my new place in order and getting couch over here has taken a back seat. I was lucky enough though to get my bed put together, I have a usable kitchen..um well just as soon as I find and clean my pots and pans. I have also been running the past three days with Traildog.

Since moving out of the other house Traildog has had some serious separation anxiety. When we lived there he was never alone for more than 4 hours. Someone was always home or running in and out and he had that constant human contact he loves so much. He even had another dog Ramsey to hang with in the back yard and play. And let's not forget about Lil Man, his favorite besides me of course. It has been a huge a change for my poor Traildog.

The love he has for Lil Man, taking a year ago

One thing though that hasn't changed is my love for him. Even when I received the call at work that he had been barking since 3:30am I didn't get mad I felt his pain. He is scared with all the new noises he has to get to use to. People walking up the front porch, people getting ready for school and work and talking outside. It isn't really that noisy but it is different for Traildog. I came home early that day and I could hear him not just barking, but he was howling and I have never heard that from him. When I opened the front door I saw him aimlessly wondering around the place howling, he was scared and confused. Of course once he saw me everything changed and he never left my side and became the good quiet boy I know.

I knew that I needed to do something about Traildogs nuisance barking, so while at work I picked up Barkoff. It is a ultrasonic training aid that can allow dog owners to take control over nuisance barking. An ultrasonic signal, inaudible to human ears, can instantly capture a dog's attention and can immediately interrupt the barking pattern. This what the website says about Barkoff. So far so good. When I went to work the next day, I waited nervously all day for the dreaded phone call. But it never came.

Traildog with his best pal Ramsey

I also decided to keep him in a smaller space. As in the bedroom, I didn't give him free range of the house as this may also be causing his stress level to increase, because he may think we are playing hide and seek and he gets very stressed when he can't find me. He is familiar with this routine and understands when I do my good bye routine. Our goodbye routine is I give him a treat for being where he is suppose to be. I also scratch his head and in a very clam voice I say "Be a good boy, I love you. Be back soon." He just sits there wagging his tail and ends up falling back asleep. The last thing I did was turn on some music for him. This way he would possible think someone was home and that might calm him even more. Well, when I came home he was supper excited to see him and he only barked once as I entered the house because I think I might have startled him. I am hoping that with some more time he will adjust even better.

I live really close to the American River Parkway and now when I go for a run I take Traildog with me and he loves it. We have been out three times this week and each time he gets better and better with running next to me and moving over when a bike approaches. He would run forever if I let him. It is great that Traildog loves to run so much because it also is helping motivate me to get back into it. Here is to Traildog adjusting!

Moving Craziness and Other Stuff

2011-11-13T14:53:00.000-08:00

The past 4 days have been freaky busy in the Pigeon household. I found a new place to live and stated moving late Thursday night as I waited for the gas man for about 4.5 hours. I couldn't leave for fear of him coming as I didn't have an appointment and the next time they could get out to me would have been November 16. That would have meant to hot water, no oven, no stove, no heat. Not good. But once the gas man came I gave Coach Nikon a call and he helped me move my bed which was awesome of him as it was rather late for both us. Thank You Coach Nikon!!!!

I managed to bring over another load, but after that I was ready for bed and Traildog was having a hard time adjusting. Traildog was stressed out, he had high anxiety and he was barking more than he usually does. He barked at any and all sounds. Luckily he calmed down by the second night and now he is settled in nicely. I think he misses Lil Man and his buddy Ramsey.

As for me, I am still moving stuff. You see everything I owned has been in storage for the past 4 years. It has been about a year since the last time I looked in my storage unit. So I am slowly getting the storage unit emptied and slowly getting things unpacked. The one thing I didn't take my time on was cable and Internet. I really have missed it even if the TV is on only for noise. I had forgotten how lonely it is living by myself as it has been maybe 6 years since I was alone. Good thing I have Traildog because he is keeping me sane.

Lil Man was very excited to have me move out as he gets to help his mom and dad paint my old room for the new addition to their family. Hence the reason I needed to find my own place. Lil Man on Thursday night helped me load up my car and he even helped get Traildog together so that I could take him. It was rather cute but also sad for me. Here is my 4 year old nephew bringing me boxes and than my dog. I know he is going to miss me but I already miss him. I miss seeing him sleep, his bright smile in the afternoon when he gets home from preschool, his special bond with Traildog. In fact I think Lil Man secretly misses Traildog because when I stopped by today he had a imaginary Traildog he was playing with. I can't wait for Lil Man to come over and eventually spend the night.

It hasn't all been about moving though, yesterday I headed out to Last Chance 50k, 50 miler and supported and cheered on my friend Batman. He was running his first ultra and I wanted to be there even if it was only for two aid stations. I actually received a text message early that day and had to run over to his house because he had forgotten his IT band. I grabbed it and rushed to Laguna aid station and waited for him. When he arrived he was looking strong and in great spirits. He ran a fantastic race and I am sure he will be posting about it here.

Once I finished up at Last Chance I headed to Target to pick up some thing I really needed, like trash cans, a shower curtain, laundry detergent, etc...I was amazed at how much I didn't have. Once I finished up with that I waited for the cable guy to show up. He ended up being about 20 minutes late which also meant I received a $20 credit. Score. After all that I headed back to the finish to cheer on the finishers and help support Power Girl where I could.

Overall I am glad that I took a break from the crazy madness of moving and unpacking. I really needed that human contact and what better way than to be at the finish line of a 50 miler. Such inspiration and determination on the faces of those ultra runners. Congratulations to Batman and everyone else who completed the Last Chance! Now to unpack some more and return to work tomorrow morning.

I almost forgot, but I also signed up for Western States 100, here is to keeping my fingers crossed and my name being drawn at the Lottery on December 10.

Catching Up

2011-11-09T18:10:00.000-08:00

It has been crazy busy since my last post. I have been running around looking for a new place to live, working, and just trying to keep things together. Work is busy, thanksgiving week planning. I think I spent a good week and half on that schedule to ensure that I had adequate coverage that week. Crazy planning, crazy visits taking place and just plan old busy.

But with all of that going on I did manage to get a few solid runs in this past weekend. Friday night I headed to Hoppy Brewery and met some fellow runners and friends for a nice easy 8. Now I have never been to Hoppies and when I am challenge to venture out of my normal comfort zone things can get a bit crazy. In this case I made it to Brewery just fine, the problem was trying to get in the parking lot as I drove by it the first time. So I decided at the next light to do a u-turn only I couldn't. No U Turn allowed. So I had to turn left and I slowly made my way back. Then on my second attempt I turned to soon and was stuck in the wrong parking lot. Once again I had to find my way back and on the third pass I finally emerged victorious and was able to park.

Yes, you might think I am directionally challenged, but that is only when I have never been somewhere and I start to second guess myself and that is when I mess things up. Luckily my friends waited for me as I arrived a few minutes past the scheduled start time. Sorry.

We started running and I learned that there were various distances in the group, 3 miles to 6 miles to 8 miles. I am not training for anything and I haven't been running too much, and I already had a few miles in my legs for the week, but soon I found myself doing the full 8. On the way out though I managed to roll my ankle and I heard the huge pop. Weird thing was I could run on it just fine, it didn't hurt, there was no swelling so I just continued on the run and didn't say a thing. Once we hit the turn around someone mentioned possible a slight tempo on the return and next thing I knew I had increased the pace and was pushing it more than I probably should have. I mean when is the last time I ran a tempo? It has been forever, but secretly it felt really good and my leg turnover was pretty solid and I was having fun.

As the miles clicked by I slowly started slowing down, but the group helped pull me. The good thing was there was only maybe a mile to go. I think I really just wanted to enjoy some beer at the Brewery. It was a solid 8 on the pavement and a nice tempo on top of it and the best part was the beer after and the great conversations. The bad part was I had to work the next morning and by the time I made it home I only managed to get 3.5 hours of sleep and I had a full day ahead of me.

The following day as I was walking around work I noticed my ankle was really sore and tender and I couldn't figure out why. Then it dawned on me a few hours later, I rolled it on the run Friday night. I wasn't concerned about it but I was a bit nervous about hitting the trails after work with some friends. I didn't need to aggravate it more. The trail run after work was awesome though I was a bit sleep deprived as I didn't get a nap in after work.

I brought Traildog with me and he really enjoyed his run. He is such a sweetheart and such a Mommy's boy. His love for me was seen by all. He wouldn't leave my side and if he did he was constantly looking back for me to make sure I was still with him. What a good boy! I love my Traildog. The run was a easy 6 just out enjoying the beauty that is all around us. What a great weekend of running with friends and enjoying some drinks after running. Here is to finding the time and remembering the beauty that is just outside.

Special Day With Lil Man

2011-11-04T12:42:00.000-07:00

I return to work tomorrow after a nice 4 day break. Yes, it wasn't long, but it was long enough to hopefully recharge my batteries and get me ready to power through 4th quarter and the busiest time of the year for us retail workers.

I have enjoyed some great runs on the pavement that have really sparked my drive and enthusiasm. Now if I miss a run I feel like something is missing and just overall not the same.

Today I enjoyed a great morning watching Lil Man. He actually woke up early which meant we could start our day of adventure together, but first I had to get both of us ready and breakfast in our tummies. It didn't take long for that and we were out the door to his favorite store. Target of all places. He enjoyed playing with the toys and helping me fill the hand basket and than he races me to the check out lanes. He always wins....he is that fast.

Today he also enjoyed a very special treat. A kids hot chocolate from Starbucks, which he ordered himself and even started spelling his name for the Barista. Of course it was too hot for him and he once again stepped up and waited in line and asked very nicely and sweetly for some ice to cool his drink down. He noticed that I was waiting for my coffee to cool down so he kindly placed in ice cube in my coffee so that we could get back to looking at the toys.

Lil Man enjoying his special treat!

After our little treat we decided to get some things for lunch. We ended leaving with some broccoli and some hamburger meat for hamburgers. Once home he was eager to help me get lunch ready, but first he needed his chip snack I promised him. After his chip snack he was all business and helped by supervisor the patty making process and the cutting up of the broccoli. He also sang at the top of his lungs.....steaming the broccoli......It was pretty cute. While I prepared the meat he went to his room with Traildog and had a concert for him.

He has been very helpful with keeping his toys picked up and he also had some very good listening skills. I am really going to miss these special moments when I move out. Tucking the covers back on him before I leave for work, his special bond with Traildog and his special bond with me, hearing him call my name as soon as he comes in the house, or even busting up in my room because he is excited to tell me about his day.

I know Lil Man is very excited to move into my room, but I am not 100% sure if he understands what is about to happen. I wont be around all the time, he wont see me every day, I wont see him every day. It is going to be a huge change in both of our lives. I know though that I we will still have special moments and when they do happen they will be that much more special. I promise!

Enjoying Running Again

2011-11-03T09:33:00.000-07:00

This week running has been easy and enjoyable. My how I have missed that part of running. Enjoyable! I took a mini vacation from work to recharge myself for 4th quarter and while I have been recharging I have been running. I haven't been on the trails since Saturday when I had that great run to Cool and back, but I have enjoyed the pavement around my neighborhood.

It has been nice not having to stress about when I was going to get a run. It is hard for me when I am working to even think about wanting to run after being on my legs for a good portion of the day about 9 hours. My legs are sore when I get home, I usually have zero energy which makes hitting the road for a even a 3 mile run a huge challenge.

I have noticed that ever since my schedule has moved to an early morning start time of 2:30 am my running has suffered along with family time. Unless that is, I come home take a nap, wake up play with Lil Man and than take another nap before heading back to work. That only works for so long before everything comes crashing down. When it crashes it crashes hard.

Needless to say not working the past few days has been great for me. I have even started looking for a new place to live. But that in itself is stressful trying to find the right location, and also keep Traildog in mind as I don't want his happiness or freedom to suffer. Very difficult to find a place that allows a 40lb dog. But it is a start, just not something I am actually enjoying, and thus far nothing has wowed me per say.

I have really enjoyed running in the mornings. It really gives my day a very positive healthy start and sets the tone for the rest of the day. I find that I have more energy, I am more focused and overall just feel better. I started running a few years ago to help balance my crazy life and it has allowed me to have some attainable goals through out the year. I have developed some great friendships while out on the trail.

Running gives me an outlet, an outlet I didn't have before. It has given me more confidence at work and in my day to day life. I know that I am capable of so much more than what my mind thinks. That is a great feeling, to know that I can do so much more. Running isn't about being first for me, it is about the journey and completing the race..task....adventure...you name it is about enjoying the simple things in life and living each moment to the fullest. My journey isn't done, it is only getting started!

It Clicked on the Trail To Cool

2011-10-30T05:00:00.000-07:00

Yesterday it finally clicked! I had a really strong run on the trails to Cool. When I woke up though that morning I almost talked myself out of running, but I am very thankful I didn't. Maybe I had such a good run because my head was finally clear and I managed to get some rest the night before, but what ever it was I was due and I really needed that run.

I headed up to the overlook to meet up with some friends from the Ultra Group. I was a bit pressed for time as I had plans in the mid afternoon so I knew I needed a good three hour run and I also knew I wanted to run at least 14 miles. I also knew that running to Cool has some challenging climbs but was doable as long as I stayed focused.

Jumping Bean and I headed out before the group. Jumping Bean was planning on running with me as this was her easy day, and her easy day is my day of work. So it worked out well. She pushed me without even knowing it. She is a joy to run with, just full of life and excitement. It was great running with her and laughing at some of our stories we told.

On the way to Cool, I pushed myself on both the descents as well as the ascents. My legs were feeling really strong and responding really well to the terrain. We arrived in Cool in a little bit over 1:25 which is a good time especially for me.

On the return we saw the group and everyone was looking really good. I knew that jumping bean was going to take off on me on the 3 mile descent but she agreed to wait for me at No Hands. I was maybe a few minutes behind when we regrouped. I had pushed myself on the descent, but not hard enough where my quads would blow up, but hard enough where it was a bit uncomfortable and a bit uncontrolled. Once at No Hands I knew the real work was going to began as there were some climbs we had to get through.

We were making really good time, in fact I wasn't worried that we wouldn't make. I ran when I wanted to and hiked the steeper sections. I even made Jumping Bean run the huge hill to Robie Point. I hiked it, but I also am not training for anything! We talked and laughed over the next few miles in and ended up finishing our run in 2:55. I had 5 minutes to spare.

It was a great day on the trail, a run that I really needed. This run allowed me to for a few hours forget my troubles and refocus myself on staying in the moment and enjoying that moment for what it is worth. Life will have it's ups and downs, but it is what we do when we are down. Will you get back up? I know I will!

Too Much To Think About

2011-10-29T05:38:00.000-07:00

The past few weeks have been very difficult for me to log any real miles. Maybe it is the fact that I do not have a race anytime soon, or maybe I am still recharging, or maybe just maybe work is breaking me down right now. I have been putting in some long hours, hours which at time are physically as well as mentally exhausting. In the retail world we are nearing our 4th quarter. I mean I already have Christmas set. Plans are being made for black Friday, plans for Christmas, where is the excess of toys going to go, what about all the bulk that will be coming in. How many new team members do I need to support the logistics process and much much more.

Then the company makes an announcement that we will be open at midnight on black Friday. You can read about it, it is all over the web.(I checked before writing this post) Really? With about four weeks to go a bomb gets dropped on our lap. This effects my process the most, as I had already planned out that week and what my team was doing and what I days I was working as well, I am off Monday and Tuesday as of now. I also am trying very hard to keep a reasonable schedule for my team members so that they can also enjoy Thanksgiving with their families. But opening at mid night, now that is a challenge for me. I am still obviously digesting this information as I just received Friday mid day right as I was getting ready to leave, and will have to go back and revisit my plans and really change things up all the while being very mindful about everyone family time as well as my own. Will, I kind of think I wont be having any family time that day, which I am not very happy about.

I am sure as I redraw up my plans all will come together, but it is going to take some time. Time though is something I don't really have, you see I took some days off next week, Tuesday through Friday and I am sure my team will have a ton of questions especially since the news is being delivered this weekend, I am off this weekend. So back to the drawing board. Umm maybe a good long run is just what I need to wrap my head around all of this. I know opening up at midnight is the good for the company as it keeps us competitive with our competitors.

So that is what I have been struggling with, schedules, new team members, plans, freight flow, how much room do I have in the back room, p-fresh, and now black Friday. So running has taking a back seat and when I did manage to head out this week, my body was really off. My legs were loaded and really heavy, my breathing was off and I just couldn't find that happy place I usually find while running. Is it too much on my mind, to many mental stressers, or I could just be over thinking everything right now? But I have been feeling off and I am hoping that one of these runs everything will click again. I am sure it will, and I shouldn't worry about it.

On a side note 14 days until the LOTTERY opens up for States! Are you putting in? I know I am.

Lil Man's 4th B-day Party

2011-10-27T13:34:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was my nephews Lil Man birthday party. He was super excited because this year his birthday party was a Halloween B-day party. All the little kids came dressed up in their Halloween costumes and enjoyed a awesome bounce house that had a slide as well as a basketball hoop.

Lil Man and C.Q., my nephews

The train engineer

Captain America made an appearance

Time sure has flown by and I really hope that this birthday party was special for him. I mean this is all he talked about ever since he and his mom came up with the theme. He even invited some special adults to join in his celebration. Captain Kirk and Wonder Woman! He was really excited when I told him that Wonder Woman was coming, in fact when they showed up he went running to them all excited. Sorry Captain Kirk about the miscommunication, I didn't know. But Lil Man was super stocked to see both of you!

My sister

Having fun in the bounce house

Showing me how to go down the slide

basketball time

Spending some quality time bouncing with the birthday boy

Also in attendance was his new friend Landon and Power Girl and Bat Man. These two had a ton of fun together running up and down, in and out, jumping off of the slide. I think Landon brought out Lil Man's daredevil. That is a good thing, as Lil Man only a few days before the party actually created mud and jumped in it. That was a huge step. Lil Man does not like to be dirty or get wet if he can help it and he doesn't pick up bugs, but we are working on that, or I should say his dad is working on that. I don't know where he got that fear from. It wasn't me....honest!!!!

Time for some cake

See the dare devil came out

Thanks for coming Trailmomma

My sister

All the kids had a great time enjoying the bounce house and the other Halloween related activities while the adults enjoyed good conversation, some good food, and of course adult beverages. Thank you to everyone who came, Lil Man had an awesome time and still can't stop talking about it. Sadly the bounce house is gone, but the memories will stay forever!

Traildog even enjoyed the bounce house!

Happy Birthday Lil Man!!!!

16 Very Hilly Miles with a Friend!

2011-10-16T16:57:00.000-07:00

Today I headed up to El Dorado Hills to run with a good friend, Trailmomma. We met about two years ago during the Fleet Feet Ultra Training Group. We trained together with the group and accomplished our first 50 milers. After the group she continued training with me. Well, I was training for Tahoe Rim 50k and she was just keeping in shape.

Western States Training Run 2010

During our runs we would talk about everything. Than my work schedule changed, she was pregnant and moved and I was running with some new friends. We never lost touch though. I ran with her right before Run On The Sly 50k. We did about 10 trail miles and picked up right where we left off.

Well, yesterday she talked me into coming up and running. I tried to talk my way out of it but she wouldn't let me. I tried to explain that I didn't think I would be able to run 16 miles after the way I felt yesterday while running 13 trail miles. She explained I could run 8ish and head back to her house as the route would take us by her house. I was sold and confirmed I would be there.

Cal Loop 2010

Just like last time we picked up where we left off and were talking up a storm. We were running with some of her friends from Buffalo Chips, who by the way are super fast. We brought up the caboose, but they were kind enough to wait for us at the water holes along the route and even ~~yelled~~ encouraged us to RUN the HUGE HILLS!

As the miles ticked by my legs were feeling pretty good, my quads were a bit stiff and sore but I continued on. I was enjoying myself so much that I didn't want to stop. Trailmomma is training for CIM in December and is looking really strong out there. Her attitude was upbeat and positive and she kept moving forward even when I wanted to walk some more of the hills, she powered up them. The downhills became a bit tricky for me. The downhills actually hurt my quads more and I had to take them rather slow as I didn't want to blow my quads up.

Trail Running 2010

Running with trailmomma the miles go by fast, before I knew it we were near her house and I had the option to either turn left or keep going straight. I decided to keep going straight and run the entire loop. My legs were good, I was mentally focused and I was having a great time and I was told there was only maybe two more hills to climb.

As we continued on we focused more and at times dug deep. Or I had to dig deep. I took a salt after passing her house as my legs were feeling a bit funky and soon enough my legs started feeling better and I was running more fluidly. The hills really slowed my pace down, but I didn't care about my pace, I was only secretly worried that I was slowing trailmomma down.

Soon we were back on the levee and had a few more miles to go. My legs started acting up again and I felt cramps coming on so I quickly took 2 salt tabs this time and ended up power hiking the last hill as Trailmomma kept on trucking. Slowly the salt helped and I was running again. I was slowly with each step catching back up to trailmomma and soon I was right behind her and then I slowly took the lead and up'd the tempo a bit. I was feeling really strong and I could also see the finish.

Western States Training 2010

I was amazed that I managed to run 16 miles today, sometimes all it takes is friend to keep me going. Thank you trailmomma for a great run today, I am glad I came out and I am even more glad I did the entire loop with you.

After running we headed back and soaked our legs in her pool, it was pretty cold and felt really good. We also enjoyed this awesome cup of coffee. It had a hint of pumpkin flavor in it. Yum!! I ended up hanging out with her and catching up for a few hours before making my way home. What a way to end my week, I couldn't have asked for anything more.

Scouting Expedition in Cool

2011-10-15T15:16:00.000-07:00

Today was my official welcome back to the trails. I haven’t been back on the trails in about three weeks. In fact this week is the first official week I have logged any sort of continuous miles. I ran Tuesday, and it was tough. My legs were not clicking and my breathing was off. Wednesday I headed back out and the first few miles I was warming up and it just felt all wrong. But then I found my stride and it was on. Thursday I headed out with Traildog and had a great run. Everything was firing on all cylinders. Friday was my rest day and today Saturday I hit the trails in Cool with some awesome friends for 13 miles of new trails for me.

Coach Nikon explaining the route

I wasn’t exactly too sure how my body was going to react, but I knew I wanted to be out there enjoying the trails with my friends. I headed up with Coach Nikon and we meet Wonder Woman, Boss and Eric, Power Girl and Batman. A great group of friends.

Our expedition leader

We headed out of the Cool fire station very excited about what this adventure would bring. I knew we were planning on running down to the river and that is just what we did. Off on the other side of the canyon we could see the road for Dam hill. It was a nice descent, but I noticed once I neared the base that my legs were not quit recovered yet. I was feeling it in my quads, which made descending a bit challenging along with any sort of climbing.

Regrouping at the intersection.

Looking good Boss

Going down!

You can see the Dam Road across the way

After hitting the bottom we had to climb back out. The trail was pretty steep but also had some sections that were very runnable. I hiked some and then would run some. By this time it was also getting rather warm out. I was sweating bullets, it was very humid out and I am sure I was a bit dehydrated from the start. Once we hit the top we were also on the pavement and then we hit some awesome single track and soon we were on the Olmstead Loop.

Wonder Woman running strong all day

This loop is super fast and it was very tacky. I managed to open up a little bit, but that didn’t last very long. My legs were shot. I was running low on energy and also low on water. I managed to push on and run when I could and I hiked when I needed to. I was just happy to be on the trails once again.

We did manage to take a few wrong turns, but that didn’t faze us we just hooked back up with the trail when we could. We also saw a snake out there and it was pretty interesting to see a certain someone squeal I mean run past it. Soon we finished our loop and we were all still smiling and laughing at the great adventure we had.

Coach Nikon

It was a great adventure, a great scouting expedition and a great day on the trails in Cool. I learned that my legs are not firing on all cylinders, even though I really want them to. It is going to take some time and time is what I have. I have no races planned for the rest of the year and I am just enjoying running whenever I can. No pressure for miles, no pressure for time on my feet, just running for the pure enjoyment of running. That is what it is all about. Running for pure enjoyment. I have found that again!

Fire Trails Volunteer

2011-10-15T05:42:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I volunteered at the 29th Annual Dick CollinsFiretrails 50 and also home to the Golden Hills Trail Marathon. It was a very exciting experience that I was able to enjoy with some great friends Dustin and Michaela and Landon, and where I also made some new friends, Stan and Jennifer and Adam.
Dustin and Michaela and I travelled down Friday afternoon and enjoyed some drinks and food with 15 other volunteers and Julie Fingar the co-race director this year. By the time we actually got to bed it was really late as in close to 10pm I think. I had a early day on Saturday as Michaela and I were volunteering at packet pick up and needed to be ready to go by 4am.

Lucky for us it wasn’t too cold at 4am. We arrived at Lake Chabot and quickly helped unload and get the packet pick up area set up. Soon the early start runners were trickling in and we were busy. There were plenty of volunteers helping us at packet pick up and soon the time flew by and we had to leave to get our aid station set up.

It took about 30 minutes for us to reach our aid station and when we arrived it was still pitch dark out. I had half of the aid station in my car while Dustin had the other half. Michaela and I quickly got to work unloading my car and setting up what we could. I pulled out my table and started cutting up the potatoes and bananas. We also set up the water jugs. Now all we had to do was wait for Dustin and the early starters.

Getting the aid station all ready

The early starters started coming in and we helped them as best we could soon Dustin arrived and we all scrambled to get the rest of the station ready for the runners. As we were finishing setting up the front runners started flowing in. Just as soon as we had our table all ready it was whipped out. It was nonstop from the moment the front runner came through. More PB&J, more water, more Gu brew, ahh crap we need more snacks. But we held it together and with the help of Daisy and the stellar crew we managed to get the runners in and out in no time. We were a smooth running aid station, well that is once we found our groove, which didn’t take too long. We are all experienced runners and we just jumped in and did what was needed. It was all very exciting and at times overwhelming.

All ready!!!!

Once the rush came through we were able to get everything ready for the next wave and we also enjoyed a few beers. Soon we were applying sunscreen and getting into the super hero costumes. As that was the theme of our aid station. It was a lot fun, but also a lot of work. I have a new appreciation for all the volunteers.

The second half of the day was actually really busy. We had waves of runners coming into the aid station. Sometimes it was one and other times it was 5-10. Our aid station was rocking the super hero theme and it seemed that all the runners appreciated it and some even managed to laugh. We were nonstop once the second wave of runners came through, but we were all rocking our super hero outfits.

I am truly grateful that I was able to be a part of this event. I enjoyed helping out my fellow ultra trail runners and most of all it helped me regain my passion for running. After my last race I had fallen into a huge funk and by volunteering it helped bring me back. Again, thank you to all that volunteered at Fire Trails and if you haven’t volunteered at an event I would encourage you to do so. For more pictures go here

It was a awesome day, but I was exhuasted afterward. Very glad I had this opportunity to give back to the ultra running community. What an experience!

What's Next?

2011-10-06T06:47:00.000-07:00

So, what’s next? Actually that is a question that is not on my mind. I really have no desire to run at this point. Is that bad? I am not sure. Is it because I just had a full season and possible need a few weeks off? Yes! I haven’t had any down time in a year. My last two week break or was it four week break from running was back in October when I was instructed by my doctor to rest up and allow my ribs to heal. I did that and I came back stronger than ever.

But the only weird thing was when I rested last year I actually still had the drive and motivation to run. I went hiking in Tahoe I stayed active, right now the only activity I do is at work during my 9-10 hour shift. Well the desire and need to run come back? I hope so. I feel mentally fried and this break I am hoping will help reset me.

I have been resting since my last race on September 24. I had a few blister on my feet that needed to heal and I allowed those blisters to heal. It was pretty neat though, I ran the 50 miler on Saturday and on Monday I was back at work. My legs were a bit sore and if I didn’t have those blisters I would have been walking normally, but the blister caused me to favor my left side. I remember my first 50 miler and how sore I was, I could barely walk. My body must be adapting to this distance which is exciting when I think about that.

I have also been spending a lot of time with Traildog and Lil Man. The three of us have been going on walks to the park where Lil Man enjoys the running around and riding his scooter. Traildog of course enjoys just being by his mommy side. Traildog even made a appearance at Fleet Feet and was really good there. He just sat and waited to be petted and explored the back room. Ok, so maybe I haven’t been as inactive as I thought, walking counts as activity.

I have no more races planned or on the agenda for the rest of 2011. I am not running the California International Marathon; I really do not want to punish my body with pavement training. What is planned for next year? Well, I really do not know. I guess I am waiting on a certain LOTTERY to figure that out next year.

In the meantime I am just enjoying being. I do have to find a new place to live, which I have been putting off now for a month or so. Looking for a new place is tough for me as I have a hard time with change and I also need to keep Traildog in mind when looking for a new place. I don’t want him to become unhappy.

This weekend though I am volunteering at Fire Trails. A race that Julie Fingar is putting on. I will be heading down with some of my friends and volunteering at an aid station all day. The race has an early start time option at 5:30 so I am sure we will be there really early in the dark setting up. Maybe while I am volunteering the spark will return and my drive to run again will come back. I am looking forward to helping out other runners achieve their goal this weekend, just as all the volunteers this year helped me achieve mine.

Sierra Nevada Endurance Run Race Report 2011

2011-09-29T09:20:00.000-07:00

I wanted this so bad, but it was a battle right from the start………

I was sitting at the table in the little gymnasium when I had this feeling that I needed to use the bathroom. I headed to the bathroom and as I was there my stomach was torn up. I dry heaved and gagged a bit trying really hard not to lose my breakfast. I came out and I felt a bit pale and clammy. I headed to the start with everyone else and told myself it was just my race nerves really taking over and that things would settle down.

I headed out and slowly and easily found my rhythm on the fire road. I knew that I had a long day ahead of me and that I didn’t need to fight for position. I hit the climb up Mooney ridge and power walked it and took the descent pretty conservatively. It seemed that things were settling in and I was nice and relaxed. I took in some GU and I was focused on my hydration. I knew that hydrating was going to be a key factor in today’s outcome. As I hit the single track and made my way to the first aid station my stomach started feeling a bit funky. It wasn’t bloated but it didn’t feel settled. I arrived at the aid station and grabbed a PB&J Square ate it and used the bathroom hoping that would help my stomach. Only it didn’t. I knew that I shouldn’t push too hard, I would need to slow things down if I wanted to finish.

My stomach pain would come and go and with it I would run and hike. Run and hike. I arrived at horseshoe and again tried to use the bathroom there hoping that that would help the situation. Nope nothing only a little bit of pee. At least I peed. I grabbed another PB&J square and slowly ate it, hoping that if I ate it slowly it would settle better. I made my way down the trail with a really upset stomach on my way to Rattlesnake and the first time I would see my crew, Dustin. I kept feeling like I “needed to reset my stomach” but nothing. My stomach was really upset and wasn’t settling down. I took in some GU knowing I needed the fuel, but that only upset my stomach further. I kept thinking that this was going to be a long day and if I was even going to finish with the way I was feeling.

I arrived at Rattlesnake, told Dustin I needed some water and ice in my pack and he switched out my sort of empty flask for a full one of GU. I also slowly sipped down 2 ginger ales hoping that would help settle my stomach. I told him my situation and he calmly told me to keep eating, during this next stretch try and snack on a waffle anything solid but to keep eating as I needed the calories. It was great to see him and he helped lift my spirits and he even managed to calm me with his words. Sometimes it is just the simple words from a friend that helped encourage me. He told me it was 3 miles to the next aid and to eat during this stretch, the next aid only had water and was self service. All very valuable information and information I retained. He would be at the top of the overlook for me. And with that I was off. I was maybe a few minutes there, but not much.

I left rattlesnake, I don’t think I ate anything but managed to get the 2 ginger ales in me. I ran and hiked when my stomach became too upset. I was focused on hydrating and took a salt every hour. It seemed that I arrived at Avery’s pond really fast and was a bit surprised to see it. Avery’s pond means much more to me. It brought a smile to my face and a brief memory of my friend Pam asking Anthony one day “so how will I know when I reach Avery’s Pond?” I chuckled a bit and ran around it. The trail wasn’t marked so I took the right because that is the way I usually go. This was the only area I noticed during the race that wasn’t marked, but whichever way you go you will get there.

During this stretch I slowly ate a honey stinger waffle because the last time I felt nausea it helped. It took a good 10 minutes for me to get it down. But I ate the entire thing, and a few minutes later I felt like I was going to get sick. Nothing was working, my usual fuel wasn’t working and I knew that I needed to keep eating. I was thinking that I would need to switch to liquid calories and that I would be picking up my hand held and drinking coke. But I had to get their intake first.

I breezed through the water aid station and made my way to Cardiac. I was hiking faster than some runners were running and I just kept my forward movement hiking when needed and running when things felt settled. It was working as I was slowly making my way to cardiac. I passed a few runners which really lifted my spirits and once at cardiac I downed some coke and started the grueling climb up cardiac.

I didn’t push too hard, I just kept it nice and steady, one foot in front of the other, remembering to breath and to just keep moving. Cardiac is called cardiac for a reason. I could feel my heart beat beating against my chest, I could feel my legs burning with each step up I went, but I never stopped I kept going until I reached the top. Once at the top I slowly transitioned to a run. I took in some GU knowing I had used precious reserve energy and that I was already behind on my calories. I was almost to the overlook and another chance to see Dustin plus my Fleet Feet friends. I just kept thinking about that and pushed out any negative thoughts and how uncomfortable my stomach was making things. I passed a few runners during this stretch and just kept on moving.

I hit the pavement and my steps became lighter and quicker. I was close. I was moving know. I was thinking of what I needed once I arrived. I rounded the corner and I waved to Dustin. He came running along with Anthony. Then out of nowhere Pam is by my side. A huge smile comes over my face and I hug her. I am so happy to have seen her as my time at this point was way off what I originally predicted. I quickly started telling everyone what I needed. I needed to use the bathroom; I need water and ice in my pack and both of my flask switched and water downed some more as it was still too thick. I also wanted coke in my hand held and my stomach was still upset. I handed everything off and made my way to the port a potty, only it was being occupied. I did the unthinkable and quickly squatted behind the horse trailer and Anthony and Pam were my look outs. After that Anthony gave me 2 Tums for my stomach and I ate them both and then I had to spit them out as it became too chalky.

Anthony soaked me and that really woke me. Dustin and Pam worked on my pack. I was ready to move. Anthony walked me down he reassured me that I had plenty of time as I was beginning to worry about the cut offs. I vaguely remember him telling me take it easy I knew how long this should take and to not push it too hard.

I was off with that. My entire crew did a fantastic job with this stop. I knew what I needed and what wasn’t working which made the transition easier. I was making my way down to no hands bridge. I was bombing the descent. I had a new found energy from the aid station. I didn’t eat anything there so I was running on everyone else’s energy. It felt really good flying down and passing other runners. It was like a new life had come upon me. I hiked the small hills and drank my coke. I knew I needed to finish my bottle so that I could refill it at the bridge. Calories in, calories in was my mantra and my calories right now was coke. I knew coke would quickly burn off but it was better than nothing.

I was now running down Robbie on my way to the single track when all of a sudden I had to stop; I had just gotten sick in my mouth. It was little bit, but just enough to completely stop me in my tracks as I feared more was to follow. Luckily nothing else did and I washed my mouth out and continued on my way. I hit the single track and found myself all alone but moving at a nice clip. I suddenly heard what sounded like a very loud drunk person crashing through the woods above me. I stopped and looked really hard, and then I remembered what Jenny told me. This is what a bear sounds like. I quickly took off running harder knowing that I didn’t want to get stopped by a bear, one I didn’t know what to do and two, I was alone. I hit the fire road and as runners passed me I forgot to warn them about the bear, why I am not sure it had actually left my mind.

I hit no hands bridge and the volunteers there filled my bottle with coke, I ate 1 square of PB&J and was ready for my return. It took me 6 hours to hit the turn around.

I headed back and as I was hitting the single track some runners told me they had just scared a bear off the trail and to be careful. I told them “ohh that was what that noise was.” I am not sure what they thought of me. But they said it held them up for about 10-15 minutes. I started to make my climb when another came around the bend and told me she just saw the bear cub. I asked her where the momma bear was because I was sure that mamma bear wasn’t too far behind. And then I heard the bear right above me. The runner heading down took off and left me. I stood there for a second and then started hiking up hoping that when I rounded the corner I wouldn’t see the bear. The bear made so much noise but I could never see it. I never saw it, but trust me it was very near.

A runner passed me looking really fresh and I tried to tag along, but her pace was just too fast. I settled back in and continued hiking knowing how grueling this climb really was. As I was nearing the top I heard my best friend Anthony. He had come down to check on me. His booming laughter and voice are not hard to notice. That really lifted my spirits. I told him about my bear encounter and was really excited to see him. He asked me how I was feeling and I told him I was feeling pretty good, just tired. I had no cramping. He was pretty excited with my answers. He said that tired was doable and he could work on that. Cramping and having no quads would have been a totally different story.

We ran together for a bit and hiked the bigger hills. I told him what I think I needed when I arrived back at the overlook. I wanted more coke, I needed my GU even more diluted than what it was as it was still way too thick and very hard to get down my sensitive stomach. I was drinking my water and I had just taken a salt not too long ago. Things were on point. He ran ahead of me to get things ready. Before he left he told me he thought I was doing the smart thing and taking it smart on the return to the overlook. Most runners that came back looked like they had cracked and I wasn’t one of them. All good things to hear especially since I had still had a long ways to go.

Back at the overlook there was again a huge abundance of energy; the Fleet Feet Team was there. Kirk and Jenny came down to walk me back up, Dustin was by my side and taking my pack. I used the bathroom, but I was having a problem. It felt like I had to pee but nothing happened. Anthony told me not to worry, it was better to have the urge than no urge at all.

I sat down and emptied the tiny pebbles out of my shoe, Jenny helped me with that, I than ran over to the canal and soaked myself and washed all the salt off of my face. That was very refreshing. It was almost like I was rinsing away everything that happened earlier and starting fresh. After my “cleansing” I needed more body glide.

My rear end was chaffing. It was a pretty quick stop everyone was helping and I was ready to go in no time. Anthony and I were ready and off we went.

Anthony’s main concern was calories. I needed calories as I was really behind since I hadn’t been able to eat much all day. He became my voice in my head, “drink coke, ok now some water, how about my spizz” Calories in was our mantra, coke, water salt, coke, water, salt and repeat. At one point on top of the canal I had to stop as my stomach really was upset and I had just gotten sick a bit and we walked for a bit until my stomach calmed down. We hit cardiac and I ran down it remembering not to blow up my quads. Running down is so much easier than coming up. We hit the aid station at the base, filled our bottles, soaked and were off to the sweet runnable single track.

The section of trail is very runnable and it will pull you if you let. Well, I did just that. It pulled me with ease and I even ran a few of the shorter hills without any extra effort. Anthony kept telling me how good I looked, keep it easy don’t push. We even were catching up to all those runners that had passed me earlier in the day. We would run on by and keep going and never see them again. What a huge lift to be running so well at this stage of the race. I stayed in front of Anthony and ever so often I would hear “ok keep drinking, are your legs ok?” and then I would drink more coke and take some more salt. He even had me taking 2 salts an hour and wow what a difference that made.

The single track pulled us all the way to the outpost where we refilled our packs with ice and enjoyed some more coke. My stomach was pretty upset and I grabbed 4 saltines and Anthony grabbed some as well. It was really tough to get the saltines down, but I did. We even gave my extra saltines to a runner who was getting sick on the side of the trail.

We hit the water pump and then not to long Avery’s Pond, which this time was marked. I had to walk a bit here because my stomach did not like the saltines and I was ready to get sick all over the trail. I was bent over and Anthony told me to keep moving, it was better to move while being sick than stand there as that surely would cause me to lose everything. I listened and kept moving.

We were quickly approaching Rattlesnake and were discussing what I needed. I wanted more coke, no ice as it was getting watered down too much and I needed more ice and water in my pack. I was drinking up my water like it was going out of style. As we neared Anthony took the lead and increased the pace as this section was completely runnable. I just focused on his feet and when his feet moved mine did as well. We ran the short little hills ran over the bridge and then hiked the big hill but we transitioned back to a run very quickly. It felt like I was doing 9 minute miles but I am not sure, I was just focused on Anthony’s feet and that was all.

Anthony pulled ahead of me to the aid station and I followed a few minutes later. He had my bottles filled and Dustin worked on filling my pack and the Ultra Runner Podcast team cooled me off. Anthony applied some Vaseline to my neck as it was chaffing from my pack and then we were ready to run. Only 10 miles to go. But first I had to get through the grinder.

My legs were still feeling really good, I would occasionally shake them out and when I did that Anthony would suggest another salt and more coke. I made really good time through the grinder, even running some of it and some of the hills. I was on auto pilot just keep moving, just keep moving, keep drinking and taking salt, keep moving. I hiked when the hill became too steep or the terrain became too rocky. But I was running just as soon as I could. I made it through the grinder in one piece and even managed to pass a couple of runners who I never saw again.

It was 5:30 now with only maybe 5ish miles to go. I told Anthony I really wanted to be in by 6:30, that would be a 6 hour second half. He said it would be close and I pushed the pace even faster. I picked the pace up knowing how close I was, but I also knew that could crack myself if I went to hard and then really struggle the few miles. I was running, pushing myself and the entire time my voice in my head keeps me on track with fuel and water and salt.

As I neared twin rocks the spot where I had to drop last year I became very chocked up as I said to Anthony “That is where I dropped last year.” I ran by it in seconds. I was running further than I have previously gone in this race. I was running from my heart I was doing whatever I could to keep the pain barrier at bay for a bit longer. In my mind I knew I only had a little over 3 miles to go. 3 miles that is all, and earlier today I thought I wasn’t going to make it. I thought it was going to be a slug fest just to finish. And then just like that excruciating pain ripped from my foot.

The pain was overwhelming the fiery burning sensation as the blister on the bottom of my pinky toe exploded. It was all that I could do just to keep moving. It was so painful, I hadn’t been in this much pain all day and then slowly the pain started to work its way up my toes to my ankles to my legs and into my groin. Ohh no the pain was slowly making its way up my body. The fire pain ripping through my toe caused me to walk. I was hobbling, with less than 3 miles to go. I hobbled into the Granit Bay aid station downed some coke and continued hobbling. I had about 2.8 miles to go.

Anthony calmly asked me to push past the pain barrier for a bit longer. I didn’t know what I was going to do. I was hobbling so slowly and then a runner came blazing past me. I tried to run and slowly I began running. Calmness had come over my entire body and I told myself I was going to push hard the last bit no matter what. The pain went away within a step, it was like nothing had happened and I was out for a 2 mile run. I had managed to block out the pain, I was going to finish strong.

I was running and I was slowly catching up to the runner who had passed me. As I was rounded the corner getting ready to climb Mooney ridge the one last big hill of the day I heard Dustin. That brought forth another gear. Anthony quickly stopped to get me some coke and I just kept on motoring. I was 1.5 miles from the finish. I ran half way up Mooney Ridge and overtook the runner who had passed me. I heard Anthony yell up to me “don’t crack” I quickly transitioned into a power hike and continued to gain ground on the runner. Anthony quickly caught back up to me and I took a few swigs of coke. We hit the top and continued running. I wasn’t going to slow down I was so close to the finish. We hit the descent and I just kept on moving.

Now we were on Cavitt road only a few more rollers to go. I was running 10 minute miles and it felt like I was only getting faster. I ran up the hills, Anthony being the calm steady voice in my head like he had been all day, “now run to that ribbon” I would do just that and keep going. He blocked the wind for me as there was pretty decent breeze coming off the lake. Anthony calmly told only two more rollers and then it is all downhill. I ran those rollers and as I crested the second roller I spotted off in the distance Dustin. He had come out; I ran faster, my legs pumping.

Then I saw Julie Fingar; no that couldn’t be her? But it was. She had come out to run me in. She knew that this race was about redemption for me. That brought another gear I didn’t know I had. I heard Anthony say I was running 6:30 pace. Julie called out to me “Great job Melisa, this is all for you!” and with that another gear was found, I quickly sprinted past her and she had to work to keep up. She pushed ahead of me and said “We can race to the finish?” and with that another gear was found. I was moving, my breathing was really labored and I was just focused on the finish. I heard Julie say “relax Melisa, relax” I rounded the corner and heard the cheers from the spectators at the finish.

Just a bit longer, keep pushing, I was running as fast I could, I hit the pavement with Julie right by my side, only a bit longer and the announcer called out “Melisa Mahon #41, redemption is complete!” I crossed the finish line and took a few steps before my legs buckled; I almost went down from the effort I had put in. I quickly zeroed in on Michaela and then Lily was by my side. I heard Anthony call out “Don’t lie down, whatever you do don’t lie down” I was pale and having trouble catching my breath but it was all worth it as Redemption was mine today!

Redemption never felt better. I did it, I overcame stomach issues that lasted all day and I ran the last 25 miles or so on coke and 3 GU’s. My last real food was at No Hands Bridge a small PB&J square, besides the 4 saltines at the outpost. No other runners passed me from the overlook until Granit bay, but I passed that runner on Mooney Ridge. I still to this day have a huge smile on my face and when I think about the race and the effort it took to get the finish I am just amazed. What a way to end this season.

Thank you to Dustin for crewing me and being there when I needed you. Seeing you on the course throughout the day was awesome. Thank you to the Fleet Feet Team at the overlook. Knowing they were there made me push on and keep going. Thank you to my pacer Anthony, the voice in my head. You kept me moving and helped me that a thank you is not enough for what you did. Thank you to all my friends at the finish who were there when I came in. Thank you Lily for taking care of me while my body shut down and for believing in me when I called you that Thursday in tears and in a panic. Thank you to race director Julie Fingar for coming out and running the last ½ mile with me to the finish. That really made my day and allowed me to find another gear that I didn’t know I had. What a day!!!

REDEMPTION IS COMPLETE!!!!

Turnaround: 6hours
Finish: 6:20:19
Total Time: 12:20:19

A Thing of Beauty

2011-09-22T06:57:00.000-07:00

Tahoe, a thing of beauty. I spend time up here because it calms me. Tahoe brings me back to my center. I usually come here with no schedule, no to do list, nothing that I have to do. I think that is what vacation is all about, just being and enjoying the surrounding beauty. What better place to "do nothing" but in Tahoe. I can sit on the beach for hours and do nothing, maybe read a book, listen to the rhythm of the lake or the wind rushing through the trees.

The other morning I was up bright and early and headed down to the beach. It was peaceful the water was glass like and the only thing on the water was this stand up paddle boarder. I watched him as he effortless made his way across the lake never missing a stroke never faulting. His movements were fluid and easy. He was just being in the moment and I was too. I took a walk on the beach and enjoyed the cool sand between my toes, I enjoyed listening to the light breeze blow through the trees the calmness of the water, but soon I knew I would have to head back down to pick up my friend from the airport who was flying in from South Carolina. With a heavy heart I made the trip, but knowing I would be returning very shortly.

Once we returned to South Lake Tahoe, I showed her the incredible sights and at each stop we took in the beauty and stillness of it all. In all of my time coming to Tahoe I have never eaten at the Beacon Bar and Grill. That all changed yesterday. We enjoyed a nice lunch on the deck overlooking the look. I enjoyed one of their famous Rum Runners which was totally different then what I was expecting. It was slushy like but tasted really good, I could smell the rum and then I could taste the rum followed by the pineapple. I would most definitely eat here again as the location couldn't be even better and being able to see the Lake while enjoying our lunch was just amazing.

Fallen Leaf Lake

Next up on our adventure was Fallen Leaf Lake. This lake is about 1 mile South of the larger Lake Tahoe. A interesting fact was it was created by two glaciers which traveled down the Glen Alpine Valley. The beauty of this lake is indescribable. Standing on the beach and looking up at Mt. Tallac is breath taking and unbelievable how much beauty is surrounding me. Fallen Leaf Lake has a nice general store and a marina along with a ton of hiking trails and a water fall up the road past the fire station on the right hand side, Lower Glen Alpine Falls.

Lower Glen Alpine Falls

We hiked around the water fall and just took in all the elements from the smell of trees to the water rushing down the rocks. Usually this time of the year the falls aren't this heavy, but with all the snow last year it was still roaring.

We continued up the windy single lane road to the parking lot on top and took in another lake and the mountain. The water was calm and I could feel the warmth of the sunshine. The calmness and warmth was recharging me and I could feel the calmness go through me.

Tahoe is a special place, a place I will always come to. It reminds me to just be and slow down. I don't always have to be going full force. It really is a thing of beauty!

Apple Hill Adventure and Taper News

2011-09-19T06:44:00.000-07:00

I have been on vacation since Thursday. I usually do not take a vacation before a race but rather after the race because usually after a 50 miler I am a bit sore. Just ask Coach Nikon. He always gets a kick when I am on the couch and struggle to get up. So I decided to change things up and actually be able to do something. What am I doing??? I will be heading to South Lake Tahoe today and return on Friday. I also have a college friend coming out from South Carolina. She came out a few years ago and I showed her Tahoe and she fell in love with the place. But who wouldn't, it is a very calming beautiful place.

I plan on relaxing on the beach which is a short walk from the condo and also checking out the local sights I haven't seen in awhile. Today I have to pack for the trip, and also get a good walk in for Traildog. He wont be coming with me, but will be in good hands with Lil Man. Lil Man loves taking care of Traildog while I am out even if it is for an hour while I run. He gets very excited and tells me "I am taking care of Traildog." He even passed up a trip to Target one day because he wanted to take care of Traildog. He is really going to miss Traildog in a few months.

This past weekend we (my sister and Lil Man) made our annual trip to Apple Hill. I remember going to Apple Hill when I was a kid and doing the exact same thing we did on Friday. That place never changes (besides the prices.)

Having some fun at Abel's Farm. We also enjoyed lunch on their back deck which had a great view. The food was pretty good, I know I enjoyed my pulled pork sandwich while the Hamburger was a bit on the dry side for my sister. But with the views we had there was no complaining.

After Ables we headed to Boa Vista. This spot we always buy fruit because they have the biggest selection and it is right in between Abel's and High Hill Ranch. Lil Man was great, he had a "job" he helped hold the plastic bag for the fruit and he also ever so gently placed some pears in the bag. At Boa Vista they also have the old fashioned apple peeler. He could have stayed there all day watching it in action. It is actually pretty cool to see. I remember watching that machine when I was a kid.

Next up was the very famous High Hill Ranch. This place is always crazy busy during peak weeks. My memories of the place was fishing at the little pond. We would catch fish, but of course I did not want to touch them. We didn't let Lil Man fish as it was really pricey, but he enjoyed watching all the fish and walking around and enjoying some fresh apples.

While at High Hill we also visited the Fudge Factory. While I enjoyed a piece of homemade chocolate Lil Man played on the train and airplane. We stayed at High Hill the longest, but next on the agenda was Rainbow Orchards. This is where we buy our fresh apple donuts. They literally make them in front of you with the old fashioned donut maker and when you get them they are steaming hot. As soon as you get out of your car you can smell the fresh apple donuts. They are the best and if you haven't tried them you need to. I am a huge fan and my little secret is I could eat them all, but I didn't I only had two over two days.

The last stop of the day was Larsen's. We always get our apple pies here and this time we bought our apples here as well. If you head up on the weekend make sure to stop by on Saturday as they are closed on Sunday. This place has the huge water wheel pictured above and Lil Man was mesmerized by it. He wanted to stay and watch it forever. But I told him we needed to get moving because if we don't they will run out of pie. Once I said that he jumped down from the bench grabbed my hand and we headed over to buy our apple pie.

We visited 5 ranches. These are the five ranches we always visit. There are a ton more one being the Jack Russel Brewery. That place makes some good brews. No matter where you go in Apple Hill you will have a great time. I know I always do and I can't wait to go back again, I might just have to stop on my way to Tahoe for some fresh Apple donuts.

In running, I have been really enjoying my taper. I did head out this past week for a few short runs to help keep my legs fresh. A few of those runs I threw in some pick ups so that I wouldn't have the dead leg feeling. Overall my body is responding well to the taper, I am feeling stronger and energized and also mentally ready for Saturday. I have a few things I have to get together Friday when I return for my crew, but overall I am ready for Redemption. I have a awesome crew (Dustin) and a awesome pacer.

Coach Nikon will be pacing me from the Overlook to the finish. He just ran Rio Del Lago

Happy Birthday Q

2011-09-16T05:04:00.000-07:00

This post is long overdue and I mean long overdue. It was my nephews 3rd birthday party a few weeks ago. I can't believe how fast time goes and how big he is getting. I was off the weekend of his birthday party and was able to make it to the swim party. There were a ton of kids there of all different ages, and there were also a lot of adults. It was swim party BBQ theme and the weather was just great. I even managed to get a run in before the party.

Here is the birthday all ready for a dip in the pool!

Lil Man showing me how to play golf

I don't think they are having fun! They could have spent the entire day in the pool

I think they are racing and Nephew Q is winning.

Time for the talent portion of the party. Canyon Ball!

Enjoying the boat and time with his dad.

Happy Birthday Q. I hope you enjoy the fire truck! He also received a book and before he would move onto the next present he had to "read" the book. Now he doesn't know how to read, but it sure did seem like he did.

He did enjoy the fire truck, it even moves on it's own and makes lots of noise!

Time for cake!! His mom made a train cake for the little ones.

Happy Birthday Q. It was a great party and you are growing up so quickly.

Rio Del Lago 100K Pacer Report

2011-09-14T12:26:00.000-07:00

I had the privilege to crew and pace my friend and team mate Anthony at Rio Del Lago 100k. He was originally signed up for the 100 miler but due to a sprained ankle which he did a few weeks before the race he opted for the 100k.

My day started early as I had to go to work for a few hours as my time off request was denied. I arrived at Lily’s house around 8:15 enjoyed some pancakes help load the car and we were off to Beal’s point so that I could check in. Once at Beal’s the volunteered told me that the Bibs were handed out to the aid stations and to just head to aid station and I could get my bib there and if there wasn’t a bib I was good to pace as I had also turned in my waiver form. I did let this volunteer know that I was pacing a 100k and she said I was good to go.

After checking in we headed to Cool to wait for Anthony and help him with whatever he needed. We saw the front 100 milers come through and then we heard that Anthony was in first place. Lily stayed at the car making sure everything was ready as we really didn’t know what he would want or need, so she was ready for anything. I headed out to meet him so that I could get an update from him on how he was doing and what he would need so when he checked in at the aid station we would have everything ready.

100 miler runner coming into Cool

Jimmy Dean Freeman coming into Cool

Fleet Feet Ultra Team

I saw him coming down the fire road and he rounded the corner. He looked good he was smiling and was focused. I got the information I needed, he wanted his spiz and water and ice in his pack. He also did a quick shoe and sock change. He told me he took his time from the overlook which was probably a really good idea as the day was getting rather warm out. He was downing salt like it was candy. His fueling was on track and he was drinking plenty of water.

Anthony coming in looking strong!

As he checked in, Lily and I went to work filling his pack, filling his bottle, and making sure he had everything before leaving. It was a quick stop and he was off and running within minutes. He told me he was going to take his time heading back as this part of the course was hot and fully exposed.

Quick Stop

After getting Anthony everything he needed we loaded the car back up and made our way to the Overlook. The plan was for me to pace him from here to finish.

Heading out

Once at the Overlook I checked in right away, which turned out to be very smart on my part. The volunteer there told me that there were no pacers allowed in the 100k and that I couldn’t run with him. Now, I had done my homework and read the entire wed page. On the pacers web page it did not specify which distance and there was also no disclaimer stated only the 100 milers were allowed a pacer. Before I told him any of this he had called the race director and she said no I could not pace him. After hearing this I told him about the web page and Lily pulled it up on her I phone, I also told him that I tried checking in at Beals like the web site said too and the volunteer down there told me I was good to go. He read it and then called the Race Director back and left a message. He was very helpful and did everything that he could; now we were just waiting.

I didn’t want to do anything that would disqualify Anthony and I had to make sure I had the green light on pacing him. The Race Director eventually called back and told us I could pace Anthony. That was really good news, but a bit stressful. I re signed the waiver and had the volunteer put a side note on there that I was given permission to pace Anthony. I wasn’t taking any chances on someone forgetting this conversation and then DQing him.

Re-signing the waiver after getting the green light to pace

I quickly got ready, went to the bathroom ate a gel and filled my pack and than just sat and waited. It was nerve wracking just waiting. So many thoughts running through my head and the knowledge that he was in first place and we had no idea where second place was.

Katy and Eric headed down the hill and would shout when they saw him. Lily had everything ready for him. Then we heard them shout. I ran down and grabbed his pack to refill it and also his bottle. He wanted coke in his bottle and he also needed a refill on his salt. He was pounding the salt like it was going out of style. While we were refilling everything he walked over to the canal and soaked himself. It was a pretty quick stop and soon enough both of us were on our way to Rattlesnake Bar.

Crewing for Anthony at the Overlook

I let him take the lead at this point. He was chit chatting up a storm. I knew that Anthony was talkative but after being alone on the trails for a good portion of the day he was super talkative. We talked about everything. He told me his hip was feeling a bit off so I gave him Tylenol after finding out if he had any, which he did at the start. As we were on the canal I told him it would be a good idea for him to get in before we hit cardiac and the long section that is exposed. He soaked himself once at a very easy access point about half way before cardiac. I think during this 3 mile stretch we were both chit chatting up a storm and you could feel our energy and my excitement. As we neared the descent I had him get in the canal one last time. He was a bit apprehensive at first but I assured him I would be able to get him out and I did just that.

We cruised down cardiac talking up a storm and as we neared the aid station we heard howling. They had heard us coming. We drank some really cold water, filled his bottle with coke he took 1 more salt pill and we were off on the 6 mile stretch to Rattlesnake.

It was very hot out. The sun just baked us and I could feel the heat coming up from the ground and the heat directly above me. I knew that any water we came across we would use to stay wet as this was the only way to battle the heat.

I gave Anthony one more salt right before we hit the single track. As we hit the single track his legs became alive. This section is very runnable and run we did. He took off and I as was sprinting to keep up with him I noticed my Garmin was telling me 8:30 miles on the single track with rollers. He slowed down and hiked a climb and I told him he looked really good and that that was a nice clip he had going there. Secretly I was wondering if he kept this up I wouldn’t be with him much longer.

As he crested the top he transitioned quickly into a run and he was off. I kept him in my sights but he just seemed to be going faster. Slowly he was out of my sight. I couldn’t his pace. I tried for as long as I could.

He arrived into Rattlesnake about 10 minutes ahead of his original time frame. I arrived about 5 minutes later I think. I did my job as a pacer even if it was short. I think he really just needed someone to talk to for a bit, someone to bring a little bit of energy, and someone to keep him on track. I was there for him and it was amazing to see the transition once we hit the single track.

I can't believe how fast I had to run and he still dropped me

Lily cooling me off

It was cold, but felt good

Anthony picked up another pacer another team mate who original runner had dropped and just by change happened to be at Rattlesnake. It is amazing how things turn out and even more amazing at how supportive the ultra community is.

First place in the 100K

Anthony battled through some very tough conditions and preserved. I was very honored to have the chance to crew him and pace him and I would do it again in a heartbeat. Congratulation Anthony on an excellent race and for you first place finish. You are truly inspiring. Thank you for letting me be a part of your day.

Body is slowly shutting down

This is what 100+% Effort Looks like

Totally exhausted

Excellent Job Anthony!

A Long Hot Day On The Trails

2011-09-06T14:00:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I did my final real long run before The Sierra Nevada Endurance Run 50 mile. I met up with some great friends and some new friends as well. We were all planning on running various distances so the group would get smaller as we went on. Wonder Woman and I had planned on running 20 miles while Power Girl was running 12 but ended up doing 14 and Coach Nikon came out and did 10 miles as he is in taper mode for his 100k this weekend.

Let me tell you that this group is fast, and when I say fast I mean so fast they are a blur. I did my thing and took my place in the rear and just kept on moving. I knew that I had a long day on the trails and I didn’t need to blow up. I did for the most part keep them in my sights and they were nice enough to wait for me at the 3.5 mile mark. I wasn’t that far behind, well at least I didn’t think so.

I was feeling pretty good my legs felt strong I was mentally focused and I just told myself to enjoy the day. It was a bit muggy and we were all sweating buckets when we regrouped at the 6 mile mark. Here I enjoyed hearing about some stories of the guys adventures at their 100 mile ultras. While I was enjoying the story I suddenly let out a loud scream and jumped for the sky. I had been stung by a bee. It was following me and I yelled “I got stung by a bee” and then I took off running with the others close behind. It felt like I was in flight mode, I was just running scared. Out of all 6 of us I was the one that the bee decided to sting.

I was running at a very fast paced, dodging bushes here and trees there, when all of a sudden a huge bug flew into my nose. Wonder Girl just laughed as I flung my arms about. It was a sight to see. Soon the guys decided to turn around and it was just the three of us. Power Girl, Wonder Woman and myself.

About a mile down Power Girl decided to head back, but before she did we let 3 horses pass us. The three girls on the horses seemed to not like this section of trail and really wanted a place to get out. The closest place for them was about 4 miles to Twin Rocks. As the horses passed us we said our goodbyes to Power Girl. We started to laugh though as we had just let the horses pass us and now Power Girl was headed in the same direction as the horses and would be moving much faster than them. Opps bad planning, but I am sure Power Girl had no problem passing the horses.

Then there were two, we started the run with 8 and slowly everyone turned back. Wonder Woman and I continued on as we had 3 miles to our turn around spot at Horseshoe bar. I let Wonder Woman take the lead as she is much faster than me. We kept in contact though; she would either stop and wait or do a quick look behind to see how far back I was. We safely arrived at the turn around spot and all I could think about was how nice the dip in the river was going to be, but also how satisfying my new treat was going to taste. You see I had made myself a honey stinger and peanut butter snack. I was really hoping it tasted good because I had been looking forward to this snack for 2 hours now. When I bite into my waffle creation it tasted soooo good. It was a sweet and savory all in one and had about 400 calories as each waffle was 160 calories and I used 2 waffles and a layer of peanut butter. I just might have to try this at my next race.

Once I enjoyed a bite of my waffle and refilled my pack as I was almost out we headed down to the river to cool off. I submerged myself and I felt 100% times better. I was thinking a little clearer, I had a smile on my face, or maybe that was because of the waffle snack or maybe both. Whatever it was I felt better and ready to tackle the last 10 miles in the brutal heat.

On our return I was running a bit slower and we stopped and talked to just about everyone we saw. There were a ton of runners on the trail as everyone was getting in their long runs or taper runs before Rio and the Sierra. Miss P. came flying by me at an incredible clip, I think if I didn’t get out of her way she would have run me over that is how fast she was going and she was looking really strong. Great Job Miss P.

Wonder Woman and I slowly made our way back, or I should say I was slowly making my way back in. The heat had really taking a toll on me and I knew going into this run that I was a little dehydrated. But I continued on and found Wonder Woman waiting for me at Granit bay horse staging area where I had to use the restroom and also refill my pack as I was completely out of water. I knew I only had 3 miles to go but those 3 miles was totally exposed on the fire road and it was only getting warmer.

Wonder Woman took the short cut back and I stuck with the fire road. I slowly made my way running and hiking. I was almost back when I saw Miss P. and I decided to join her for a soak in the river as my legs were really stiff and my feet were hurting. This time though the river wasn’t as cool as I had hoped for. But it helped none the less.

This run took a bit longer than expected, but I managed to get it done. I know that the heat will be a huge issue for me and I will need to find a way to keep myself cool. I have a few ideas come race day. I might carry a bottle to squirt on my head. Maybe pick it up at the overlook or if it is warm earlier in the day pick it up at Rattlesnake, but at this point I am still just tossing around ideas.

I am looking forward finalizing my plan as I have a stellar crew and an awesome pacer. I am ready for redemption!

A day with Lil Man

2011-09-03T06:02:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I spent the morning hanging out with Lil Man and my sister at the Fish Hatchery. Now I haven’t been to the fish hatchery since I was a little kid, so many moons ago. I actually wasn’t going to go at first because I had just come back in from a six mile run. But when Lil Man asked “You want to come with us Meme?” I just couldn’t say no.

Do you like his boots?

We spent a good hour at the hatchery. We walked the perimeter where there is a nice path and the river is right there. It was a good ¼ mile hike and of course Lil Man and I ran some of it. We made our way into the fish hatchery and spent some time feeding the fish. I cannot believe how many fish were in the holding area. There are thousands of them.

Having Fun on the hike

Time to feed some fish

The machine just kept feeding out the food! Score

It's amazing how quickly the food empties out of the cup. 5 seconds and it was time to refill it.

Check out those fish

After we feed the fish we made our way into the museum and learned about the Salmon and the life a fish. Pretty interesting. Than soon enough Lil Man had had enough of the fish hatchery and it was time to head home.

We saw some birds

Lil Man and his Mom

Now that is a big fish

Learning about the fish and the water

I had to make a trip to Target, Nephew Q birthday party is on Sunday and I needed to pick up a present. So I brought Lil Man along with to help me decide. I mean he is the expert in the 3 year old field. He played and played and played with the toys. Testing them out and of course “hinting” that he wanted something. I held strong today and explain to Lil Man that today we were picking out a birthday present for Nephew Q, and I needed his help. We finally picked out the perfect birthday present. A fire truck, which makes all sorts of sounds and even has flashing lights. I know a noisy present. I am sure payback will be in order next month Lil Mans birthday party.

The day wasn’t over yet, Lil man and I enjoyed a movie in the afternoon. We “fought” over Rio and The Fox and The Hound. Why I try to reason with a three year old I am not sure. Lil Man had some good points, I wouldn’t get scared because Traildog would be right there to protect me. Now I had no interest in watching The Fox and The Hound. So I did what any good auntie would do, I just started Rio and sure enough Lil Man settled in and watched the movie with me and Traildog. The best line that really grabbed Lil Mans attention was “pop it off like a soda can.” You will just have to watch the movie. He has been running around the house saying that all evening. Overall the movie was cute and had some great songs and nice message.

It was a busy day, but a relaxing day with Lil Man. I enjoy spending time with him and soon enough there will be some big changes that I am not quite sure Lil Man fully understands. SO it might be a shock to him. Today I have a 20 mile run planned with some awesome friends and than a BBQ in the afternoon. Another full day.

A Nice Break

2011-09-01T08:05:00.000-07:00

Things have been crazy over here at the Pigeon household orI should say work. I am still covering two stores. Once I finish up my processI head over and assist with clearing out the back room for the remodel store. Iwill say that things are moving nicely on the remodel, and it is pretty coolgoing in day in and day out and seeing the changes. Do I miss it? Yes, but I amglad I wasn’t the lead Executive on this project. It is tough. I am glad I am only helping support them.

Last week I took 4 days off to celebrate my birthday and toenjoy some time with Lil Man and Traildog. I didn’t run that much I think I loggedonly 6 miles last week. I decided that I needed to take some time off after the50k and rest and recover and come back even stronger. I have 4 weeks before mybig Target race this year. The Sierra Nevada 50 miler. If you remember lastyear, this is the race that I had my first DNF with less than 5 miles to go. Itwas a tough day out on the trail and I have Redemption in my sights this year.

What did I do on my days off? I spent a lot of time ofrelaxing. I spent most of my afternoons playing with Lil Man and Traildog and Ieven spent a evening with my family at dinner. I can’t remember the last timewe have all been together like that. It has been awhile.

Time for some stroller derby!

This way Q, this way! Corner, Corner

Lil Man shows Q how it is done.

Ohh no man down!

Ahh how cute are they. This was right before they both tumbled into the wall and loud crying followed. But I am proud to say that I got this shout.

Time to mow the yard.

Nephew Q who turns 3 this weekend.

Lil man is ready to play baseball

Batter Up!!

Nephew Q showing me how it is done.

Traildog trying to stay cool and as close to his mommy as he possible could.

Slip and Slide time

Mommy I don't want to get wet, I want to stay right here in the shade with you.

Lil Man had a blast showing me how he could slip and slide.

A little help from daddy to reach the "pool"

Of course when I did return back to work on Friday I wasimmediately overwhelmed. I was “asked” to return to the remodel store and help themsort out their back room. When I read the list of what needed to get done andhow much of it was bone breaking labor I was terrified. It takes a lot ofenergy and effort on my part to complete a 2600 piece trailer and then tohead over and continue with the physical work load is even tougher. But I did,and maybe that is why I wasn’t running that much because I have been exhaustedafter my 10 hour shifts of nonstop lifting, problem solving, ect.

I am gladthat it is my 4 day weekend. I really needed this break. I can’t wait to hitthe trails on Saturday enjoy some good BBQ with some awesome friends and then abirthday party on Sunday for my nephew Q. Busy weekend but one that willbring joy and happiness to this tired and overworked Pigeon.

Run On The Sly 50k Race Report 2011

2011-08-23T07:26:00.000-07:00

Run On The Sly 50k was my birthday present to me. It also wasn’t my target race for the year, but rather a training run to log some miles before my 50 miler in September. Race morning I was up really early, I have been having a hard time getting a normal sleep pattern since moving to the early morning shift and my internal clock was still on work mode. But being up early wasn’t that frustrating for me, I was able to enjoy my morning and the weird thing was I wasn’t nervous or anxious about this race. Probably because I didn’t put any real expectations for the race. I did have a time goal, but once I was out there I threw my time goal out the window. Here is how my race unfolded and the early low I had to battle through that lasted for 5 tough miles.

The first 3.89 miles of Sly is all climbing, with a few nice rollers, but straight up. What a way to start the race and really shock my legs and cause that dreadful dead leg feeling. I did my best and kept on trucking. I walked only a short bit, but I was secretly hoping that the next bend would bring relief and some downs or some flats, but nope I was still climbing. I hit the first aid station and quickly grabbed 2 triangles of PB&J and was off just as quickly as I came in. I was trying to stay with solid food as long as I could before I taking GU. A strategy that I am sure caused my extreme low so early in the race.

After the initial 3.89 climb there is a gradual descent where my legs were alive and I took full advantage of making up some time. But just as I was getting comfortable there was another grueling climb that took the wind out of my sail. I kept on moving knowing there would be a nice long descent coming. As the second aid station neared I had the same plan in place, 2 PB&J and I was out. I had enough water in my hydration pack and I didn’t want to start drinking Pepsi this early in the race as I was only at mile 7.

As I continued on I found myself in the company of Eric, who I know from the last ultra training group. We talked for a bit. As we neared the single track I took the lead, but soon he passed me. My legs were not feeling right. I kept a nice pace, but backed off a bit.

As we made our way around the lake my legs would come and go and I was just focused on keeping a nice comfortable pace. The views were gorgeous, but I dare not look to long as part of the trail had a nice drop off to the water. Going around the lake was very runnable and I was frustrated because I couldn’t find a rhythm. It had nice rollers that weren’t that large and the single track trail was smooth and for most fast, but for me it was just the opposite. Eric slowly left my sights as I slowed down, but not before the hornet invasion. I saw Eric fling his arms and I couldn’t figure out why, then I heard the buzzing sound and then I felt the searing pain as the hornet stung my wrist and flew into my face. I screamed and yelled out and then the guy behind me was yelling. I would say that in the line I was in more than half were stung.

After the invasion I had another runner on my heels. I mean he was really on my heels and he was doing everything I did. If I hiked he did, when I started to run he did and he stayed really close. This started to annoy me and I tried to pick up the pace, but he also picked up the pace. I was dragging this runner around the lake and I could feel my energy being drained. Usually having a runner trail me doesn’t bother me, but there is also a “zone” I need. This guy was invading my “zone “and I could do nothing about it. I finally stepped off the trail because it felt like he wanted by. As I stepped off he yells “Oh you are going to make me lead now?” and as he passes me he stops dead in the middle of the trail and doesn’t move. I am speechless, I manage to say “I thought you would run as it is a downhill” He starts walking and I am pissed off now, I tell him “move over than, let me by!” I retake the lead and just as I start running so does he. Really? Now, maybe it is just me but shouldn’t he have taken his turn pulling me for a bit, or was that asking too much? Eventually I make it into the next Aid Station with the guy right on my heels even though it is a fire road.

Here I grab some Pepsi, but the Pepsi isn’t flat it is still bubbling. I decide against any food, as my stomach doesn’t feel right. In fact it is bloated and as hard as a rock. I think I am not processing my food or water and that is why I am feeling sluggish. At this aid station I ask the volunteer “How far is the loop?” He tells me 8 miles with an aid station out there. All I really wanted to do was turn right and take the path the 20 milers were running. I really didn’t want to venture out on this loop. I am at a low point and it is far too early in this race to be hitting a low. There is still a ton of miles to go and I had no clue how long this was low going to last. I slowly make my way out of the aid station; I was walking this fire road just trying to wrap my mind around this 8 mile loop. How tough could it be?

I knew my stomach wasn’t feeling right, so I slowed down my water intake and took a salt pill. I also knew I needed some fuel so I started taking my GU, hoping it would digest quickly. I also started having severe back pain with each running step. I continued on and hit the single track to be treated to a gnarly climb once again. I swear this 8 mile loop felt like 7 of it was climbing. I was passed left and right, by at least 7 male runners. I couldn’t pull myself together. I did know that this low would and could go away but I had to start readjusting my fuel. I focused on fuel and salt and positive thinking. I kept telling myself it was a training run, time on my feet was the most important thing, just keep moving, one foot in front of the other, and you can do it. Eventually I found myself running again.

I was on a nice fire road with a runner just ahead of me. I was comfortable at this point just following, he kept going straight up a nice hill. I for some reason looked to my left and saw the orange ribbons and arrows. I yelled “Hey!!!” to him as he reached the top. He stopped and yelled back “Are you OK?” I ask him “are you in the race? Because the trail goes this way.” He comes back down, questioning me and saying he was just following the runner in front of him. Another came upon us and reassured us that yes in fact we were suppose to go the left. All three of us continue on the single track trail and those two guys slowly leave my sights. I am climbing again. I took some Tylenol a bit earlier to help with the achiness in my legs and the pain in my back. I keep telling myself that once the Tylenol kicks in everything will be alright. Stay comfortable and keep moving forward.

I finally make it to the aid station and am so relieved, only they don’t have any flat Pepsi; it is still in the can. I didn’t think that my stomach could handle the bubbles. I refilled my pack as it was running pretty low and it was also starting to warm up a bit. I was at mile 15 and I am still not feeling too hot. My legs were sluggish and not really responding, how long is this going to last? I left the aid station walking. I hit the fire road found myself run walking. Soon Robert passed me and I run with him a bit. As we neared the single track I tell him to take the lead, no really please take the lead. As he takes the lead I find myself walking again. I have a nice mile hike to the top, but a beautiful thing happened during the hike. My legs started to feel better and I found quickness with each step a new strength.

My legs were slowly coming back. As I crested the top I started running and it was the most awesome feeling of the day. It had been a long and slow 5 miles of death, but I was reborn and ready to finish this race. I took off on the descent and slowly started passing everyone who passed me. As I passed I yelled out in excitement “my legs are back!” I was gaining speed and enjoying this newly found strength. I cruised into the Aid Station, downed some Pepsi saw that there were 3 guys there and I slowly and quietly left the aid station. I was feeling good.

This descent was a bit technical, but it was very short. I hit a fire road and kept on moving. I fueled with my GU and took another salt. During mile 17 to 19 I had passed everyone who had previously passed me. That was a superb feeling and one that carried me on. The adrenaline was unbelievable.

As I neared the water crossing I saw on the other side Grahm. He was just making his way out of the water and I yell out to him “Hey!” He yells back “Hi.” But I am not sure if he knows who it is. I quickly cross the water and now I have a new target. I am now hunting and my prey is Grahm. I don’t push myself on this next section as it is a bit of a climb. Grahm is a solid climber and quickly puts some distance between us. I knew that I was a good downhiller and if I had any chance to catch him that was where it was going to be. Slowly he would come into my sights and then slowly he would leave them.

There was a road crossing with a Sherriff there to help us safely across. I asked him as I crossed “how far is the guy in front of me?” He responded “maybe 100 yards” sweet!!! I am gaining on him. I could see a runner in my sights, but it isn’t Grahm. I slowly pass this runner and then I see Grahm again. I am within striking distance. We hit the single track and I call out to Grahm “Hey, you know I have been hunting you for the past three miles right?” He says “I know, I can feel it.” He steps off the trail and as I pass I ask him if everything is ok, he is having some trouble with his quads and calves. I offer him some salt and or Tylenol. He tells me he is good. I continue on knowing that he is now hunting me and I am the prey. That fuels me and I hike with a sense of urgency more so than before.

I am climbing and I know he can climb, I have to keep moving, don’t stop keep moving. He is literally 5 paces behind me now and he could pass me at any moment. I hike faster and as I round the next corner I see it. The next to last aid station. What a sight to see. I inhale 3 Pepsi and for some reason I had in my head that it was 4 miles to finish. When I stated that nice fact they were quick to tell me “oh No you have 7 miles to go.” Umm not what I wanted to hear and boy did that slow me down a bit. It was pretty warm and the volunteers offered me a shower. A shower, what is that? Oh you mean you have a hose to cool me down. I took that offer and that cool water was so refreshing, I was probably over heating a bit. Before I left I refilled my pack and had the best thing every, ice put in my pack. That cool water tasted so good and was so refreshing. Grahm came into the aid station and we chatted a bit, he sat down and I told him “I need you to go first so that I can hunt you.” I was joking and he said he was hunting me. I left and Grahm told me he would leave 15 seconds after I did. Ok so I had a 15 second head start with 7 miles to go.

I can do this, I am feeling confident. I am also climbing the fire road that has minimal shade. I find myself hiking to the side of the road that the shade is on and I go back and forth from shade spot to shade spot. The fire road was dry and dusty and hot.

I run when I can and I see a few spectators, they tell me the next aid station is .5 miles away. I yell in excitement “Thank God” .5 I can do that. That .5 felt longer, but I made it.

The volunteers said “welcome back, and what do you need” “Um was I hear already?” “Yes this is the first aid station and you look much better now than when you first came through.” “ohh I don’t remember I choose to forget the first 3.89 miles, maybe I need some Pepsi.” I could have sworn I saw them at another aid station, but all I knew was I had 3.89 miles to the finish that was pretty much downhill. I chit chatted with them a bit. I told them I did TRT four weeks ago, and that this was a training run. I was pacing my friend at Rio in three weeks and then I had a 50 miler 2 weeks after that. Why I am not sure, it just all came out. The guy couldn’t believe I did TRT and told me that mountain races are tough but nice job getting the miles in. I saw another runner approaching and I quickly thanked them for being here and the talk. I was off, just 3.89 miles to finish.

I was hammering this downhill stretch. But it wasn’t all downhill, it had some rollers which I power hiked but as soon as I crested I was running. I was transitioning pretty well and my legs were still strong. I was almost done, I could hear the announcer but I still had 2 miles to go. Wow, only 2 miles especially after the low I hit from 12-17. It is amazing I managed to pull myself out of that low. 1 mile to go almost there and it really is all downhill from here. I hit pavement and I can see the finish line. I cross in 7:01:41.4, 63 overall. As cross I let out a huge breath of relief.

This race didn’t go exactly as I wanted it to. But what race does? I learned a lot out there during my low point. I pushed through and managed to correct my mistakes. I learned that solid food really doesn’t process fast enough for me. I need to have a combination of solid food and GU. I learned that I am a strong runner and that I will bounce back, it just might take some time.

It was time on feet that counted most, but the most memorable experience for me was when I came out of that low with legs that were alive and I slowly picked off each of those runners that had passed me. Even during my darkest moment I still have a competitive drive that will carry me to the end.

Mini Break

2011-08-20T06:16:00.000-07:00

I am officially on a mini vacation! What do I do on a mini vacation? I sign up for a 50k, Run On The Sly. The race is held on a Sunday which is different for me as I am use to ultra races being on a Saturday. The other different thing about this race is Coach Nikon isn’t racing as he is preparing for Rio Del Lago 100 mile race. Most of you know that I am routine oriented. I thrive on routine.

My previous races I have always stayed the night at Coach Nikon’s house, I sleep on the couch or we car camp like we did for Tahoe Rim trail. I am always the first to rise and I typically do that without an alarm. We car pool to the races together and we wait for each other to finish. Well, I should say he waits for me as he is much faster and a more experienced runner than me.

I am branching out of my normal routine and forging where I have never been before. But who knows maybe Coach Nikon will make his way up to Fresh Pond. I won’t be alone at this race, a huge group from the Fleet Feet Ultra Running Training Program is going to be there including Garmin who will be running his first ultra in over a year. Also there will be some of my new friends I have made while out running. So it should be a great day.

Run On The Sly has a lot of options, a 12k, a half marathon, a 20 miler, and the 50k. I am doing the 50k. I thought it would be a good training run for me in preparation for Sierra Nevada 50 miler in September. This also gives me a chance to get a long run in that is fully stocked and supported. With my hectic work schedule my long runs have been sporadic sometime falling on a Thursday or every other Saturday. I knew I needed to get a quality long run in before Rio as I will be pacingCoach Nikon for the last 35 miles of his 100 mile run.

Run On The Sly is a perfect opportunity for me to test myself. I still haven’t really figured out my goal time, but I plan on running how my body feels and if all is right pushing myself a bit more then I usually do.

Today I am meeting up with Trailmomma, for a nice and easy run to help stretch my legs out and to also catch up since it has been a long time since we have seen each other. What do I have planned for the rest of my mini vacation? Not much, some drinks planned with some friends after the race on Sunday and a BBQ the following weekend. I am really looking forward to the fact that I do not have to work at two stores and I actually get to relax in a stress free environment.

Good luck to everyone who is running Run On The Sly, and I will see you out there.

Another Remodel For Me, Sort Of

2011-08-18T03:43:00.000-07:00

The past week and half I have been pulling double duty with my job. I have been "volunteered" to help out a remodel store. If you remember last year I did the remodel at my store and was asked to do the remodel at another store and with some hesitation I said “Um, No Thank You.” But as fate would have it I am being “farmed” out as my team likes to call it for daily field trips to the remodel store.

What am I doing there, you might be wondering?

I am fixing the back room. The back room which was supposed to be completed in weeks 1-4 and they are now in week 6 of a 13 week remodel. The first day it wasn’t that bad, just helping them get caught up on the overabundance of back stock. Then I was asked to return to set up the metro racking for the P-Fresh coolers and freezers and dry room. A task that is very complex, especially when I don’t get a map, any profiles. I was just told to set up the metro racking. I spent a good solid 4 hours trying to untangle and get my brain function on remodel mode. Once I was able to get all my tools, the back room map from remodel, metro racking profiles, and my team ready it took about 4 hours to actually complete this task and move the racks into their respected rooms. Not a small or quick task to complete. It is very detailed oriented as it needs to be per the map.

Once I completed this project and printed reports and helped complete more back stock I thought I was done. Nope, I was volunteered to head over after my process is completed with “A” my team and really fix their back room. Can I just say it is very stressful having to push myself and my team to complete 160 hours of work load in just 4 hours so we can have time to really get things done over at the other store. It is challenging needless to say.

This week I really dived in and helped them problem solve some key issues. The first being they are really heavy in the back room with freight while the floor is light. I have a plan we are going to work on Friday of this week which will hopefully fill the departments that are 100% set. My list of things to do is rather large and overwhelming at times, but I only have so much time in the day to get it all completed. But with some of the suggestions hopefully going forward there won’t be any more issues on the floor and I can really just concentrate on re-organizing their back room and making it more efficient for their team. That is my ultimate goal, to give them a back room that I would want, one that is productive and easier for team members to navigate. I do have a lot of detail work to complete but I am hoping to have that completed once their back room empties out.

With me being so busy by the time I get home from my double duty I am completely wiped out. I have found myself forgetting to eat because once the creativity flows it is hard to stop for fear of losing that thought. I haven’t been running much, I guess it is a good thing it is my taper week. But I might be tapering a bit to much. I will be heading out this morning for a run around the block to shack the legs out and I have plans on Saturday to meet up with Trailmomma for a nice run at Cavitt. I haven’t run with Trailmomma in a long time. It will be good to catch up. Ironically I think the last time we really ran together was during my previous remodel, and now that we are getting together I am helping out in another remodel. Run On The Sly is on Sunday, I really don’t have a goal in mind. What am I saying I do. I have never seen the course so my goal could be totally off or right on. My past few races I have been spot on with my times give or take 15 minutes. I want to have fun out there and run a smart race as well.

Check back later for my goal time!

Busy Busy Busy

2011-08-11T09:51:00.000-07:00

This week has been pretty hectic especially at work. It has been nonstop action, high stress, go go go time. There was an unannounced visit at work on Monday, which lasted a good 2.5 hours with a walk through the various departments at the store and a recap of our wins and opportunities. It seems the Logistics opportunity is cleanliness in the back room. Yup, there are a few problem areas of the back room that clutter builds up, no matter how diligent I am in following up. It is embarrassing when that happens. But on a good note, my operational numbers are high which is great and I have been sent out to two different stores to help them “clean” up their back rooms. Not bad! But, I had a lot on my plate that day which I didn’t get to complete as I really didn’t want to spend more than 10 hours that day working.

Tuesday we had a general merchandise trailer and on top of that, our normal P-Fresh trailer (fresh produce, dairy, meat and freezer product). The bad news being it arrived around 6:00 am when normally it arrives at 5:00. The P-Fresh trailer had been delayed. I immediately got my team moving to unload the 7 pallets. When I went to get my 2 freezer pallets one of the pallets had fallen over. I asked the driver what happened? He responded “I thought I heard something when I went around the corner.” I am not a rocket scientist, but wouldn’t it have been better to place the pallets side by side to avoid this situation. He had the pallets lined up all on the left side of the trailer. I challenged him on that because it was going to take time for my team and I to restack the fallen pallet. He didn’t’ understand, he was already running later than usual and now I have to restack a pallet. He said he would restack it but at this point I just needed my product so that I could get it pushed before my team left in an hour or so. Plus I still had some general merchandise to finish up. Long story short, we finished everything though it was a bit later then when we usually finish it, but it was done 100% and the floor was full and impactful. I also had 8 interviews scheduled which took a good 2 hours to complete. Not what I really wanted to do for 2 hours.

Wednesday was just as busy and again I didn’t get everything completed as I needed too. I had to postpone a meeting with my boss as I wasn’t prepared and I explained it to him that I have been slammed the past few days. He understood and rescheduled my meeting, which I am grateful for.

I haven’t been running as much this week. I have a few aches and pains, which is normal I guess. My back has been causing me some pain. It is the middle of my back and the pain shoots straight through to the front of my chest and causes me to lose my breath sometimes. I am having trouble sleeping because my back feels like something is catching and won’t release. I am not sure if I tweaked my back when I fell on Saturday or if it is stress related. Either way I haven’t wanted to run because of it. I thought a few extra days would do my body some good. My hand, well the swelling is going down each day. Each day I am able to move and bend the fingers and each day the pain is getting more manageable. It is healing, I have been buddy taping it while I am at work so that it can heal and have a bit of protection as I use my hands a lot at work. I can almost make a fist, but when I do it still hurts. My fingers still feel weak but glad the swelling is going down.

Today though, I did head out for a run. It was 6 easy miles, running how my body felt. It took a bit for my back to become comfortable but once it did I didn’t notice it. I have race next Sunday Run On The Sly 50k. So this week I guess is suppose to be my taper, even though I haven’t been logging many miles since Tahoe Rim Trail 50k back on July 16. I could race this race if I wanted to, or I could just use it as a training run for the Sierra Nevada Endurance Run 50 mile on September 24. I haven’t entirely decided want I want to do; I still have time to decide. Right?

Eating Dirt and Leaving Blood on the Trails in Tahoe

2011-08-07T06:27:00.000-07:00

Saturday morning I packed my running gear and headed up to Coach Nikon's cabin in Tahoe. He had invited some of us runners for a nice 20 mile run in Tahoe. Earlier in the week I didn't think I was going to be able to make it. My legs were still fatigued and not responding on my runs. But when I woke up on Thursday they felt solid so I ventured up there to check out some trails I have never been on.

There were a total of six of us, I knew from the company I was in I would be bringing up the rear and I was ok with that.

Heading out

We headed out and had to cross highway 50 to hit the single track trail. Once on the single track trail it was a 2.5 mile descent. The views were beautiful. We could see highway 99, the lake and trees forever.

Just breathtaking

Maybe a mile in we had a water fall crossing we had to negotiate. On the right side are the rocks and water fall that we walked through and on the left is a shear drop off. The water felt cool on my feet. I really didn’t notice the extinct of how high we were until the climb out. The trail had a nice gradual downhill till we reached the base. We even went through a canopy like orchard of Aspens with a little bit of snow runoff. I had to duck and bob and weave to avoid the branches but also had to remember to be careful as the drop off was still pretty significant.

Canopy of Aspens

Once at the base we regrouped as the group spread out a bit. I didn’t bomb the downhill section as I didn’t want to blow up my legs and there were still plenty of miles to go. Coach Nikon explained the next few miles to us. It was a rolling upward terrain. Very run able. The terrain was very run able and the gradual incline wasn’t as steep as I have seen on other trails in the Tahoe area. I respected some of the rolling terrain and found myself power hiking while the rest of group charged on.

At the base of the descent, regrouping

Coach Nikon was very awesome and would wait for me to make sure I was doing ok. That is one of the great things about running with him; he lets you and encourages you to run your own pace. It was a welcoming sight to see him and we would run a bit together, he would tell me the rest of the group were maybe 4-5 minutes ahead. Not that bad, I wasn’t that far behind then!

I was still climbing and I needed to walk. Coach Nikon looked excellent on the climb. It looked effortless for him. I lost sight of him but I knew I would be seeing him later. My legs during this climb were feeling pretty good. I was able to run sections at a time and then I would hike for a bit. I was off in my own little world when I heard Coach Nikon yell my name. I yelled back “I am here.” Thinking he didn’t hear me I blew my whistle so he would know I was just around the corner. He told me he had lost all his water from his camel back. He had accidentally popped off the bite valve and when he set the pack down to go to the bathroom, his water dumped out. We both sort of laughed at his situation, but he had a bottle on him and would be filling up at the lake. One good thing was it made his pack lighter as he was also carrying the filter to clean the lake water.

The little bit of snow we saw

We continued on our way, still climbing. I was getting a bit tired from climbs and frustrated for some reason. But then I remembered that on the return this would all be downhill and a section to make up some ground if I wanted. That seemed to calm me down for a bit. Not long I arrived at Round Lake, the group was waiting and we all regrouped. We had maybe 1.5-2 miles before our turn around spot. The lake was beautiful, there were a quite a few people enjoying the water and the sunshine.

Round Lake

We continued on and after leaving the lake we had another good climb. This climb was also very runnable and the group quickly left my sights. I climbed and eventually came out to a meadow and a short bit later the turn around. I could see the group in the distance doing “the mosquito dance” as we were near a water source refilling our water supply. The mosquitos were out in force once I stopped. I refilled my pack with Coach Nikon and we refilled his one bottle and quickly turned around and headed back.

Coming back to Round Lake

I knew the group was going to bomb the return and sure enough they did. I never saw them again. I took my time on the return just letting the trail carry me down. I remembered the way back so I wasn’t nervous about getting lost. I was again just in my own little world. I just kept placing one foot in front of the other and enjoying the moment and beauty of where I was. I could smell the pine trees, I could smell the dirt, I could hear the wind through the trees and I heard the insects buzzing about. My senses were enjoying every minute of this run. How lucky am I to be able to run such gorgeous trails?

Soon a voice took me out of my trance. It was Coach Nikon. He had come back for me to check on me. He told me the group had started the climb back to the cabin. I had maybe another mile before reaching that climb. We chit chatted as we ran down the mountain. Coach Nikon telling me he knew he didn’t need to worry about me because he knew I was a smart runner and wouldn’t freak out or get lost. I found those words comforting.

The trail was pretty rocky with some huge rocks, larger then both my fist combined. Coach Nikon was in the lead and I was talking about something when the next thing I knew I was face first on the trail. Both of my feet had been tripped up. It is explained best as a dropped phone call. One second I was talking the next just the sound of body hitting the trail and bouncing a bit. Coach Nikon immediately turns around and sees my laying on the trail. I think I told him I was ok, but I don’t even think I responded to his questions. My left fingers were hurting and bloody, I was caked in dirt on my left arm. My left arm had somehow gotten tangled up underneath me and my fingers were slammed into the ground. I think my force landed on my left fist as that is where most of my pain was. I was still laying on the trail trying to make sense of what just happened. Coach Nikon said I was real lucky because my head landed perfectly in-between two rocks. If I had landed a few inches either way my head would have hit the rocks and a more serious injury would have occurred. I started to cry from the shock and slowly gathered myself up off of the trail trying to still asses what happened. I told him “my fingers” that is all I could get out. He asked if I could move my fingers, I could but it was painful, there wasn’t any immediate swelling. As I got to my feet I wanted to get moving but Coach Nikon was still making sure I was ok. He told me not to move too quickly to stay put, he didn’t want me to pass out. I must have been in shock from the impact. I remember him telling me to stay put. Slowly things started to register again and I quietly told him “I think that fall scared me more than anything.” My fingers were bloody and throbbing and we slowly continued on down the trail, slowly meaning we were walking and then started running a few yards later.

I don’t know what I tripped over but I hit the ground hard. Coach Nikon didn’t see it but he heard it.

My battle wounds, do I look funny in this picture? As in really short?

As we finished the descent and were picking up the fire road to take us to the climb out, Coach Nikon was telling me how he had knocked himself out on a run awhile ago. As he was reminiscing his right foot caught a root and I see him flying to the ground. His fall happened so quickly he didn’t have time to try and recover. I remember seeing his right leg take out his left leg and as he hit the ground his water bottle flies out of his hand and bounces on the trail. I am in shock at what I just saw. We are both laughing, because it just happened so quickly. His foot found the one obstacle on the trail. I am laughing so hard that I almost pee my pants. I help him up and by this point we still don’t understand what just happened. We are both laughing so hard at what just happened to both of us. As I am typing this I am laughing at the scene in my head.

Showing off his battle wounds, don't mind the water bottle.

Since we both just fell and are pretty banged up Coach Nikon suggest we walk for a bit to regroup. I was totally ok with that. My hand was burning and I cooled it down in the river. We ended up walking the fire road to the single track trail. There were a few hikers out who looked us up and down and cross eyed. We both looked like the walking wounded. We were caked in dirt, I could taste the dirt in my teeth, I could feel the dirt on my face, my left arm was dirty, the front of my shirt was covered in dirt and a little blood, my left hand had some deep cuts on it and my legs and shorts were covered in dirt. Coach Nikon looked a little better, he wasn’t as covered in dirt as he fell in the grass, but he did have a little blood on his shirt from me and he had scrapped his arms up a bit. The walking wounded. We still had at least 4 miles to go.

Water fall crossing

We started the climb out keeping a nice steady pace. By this time the trail was basking in the sunlight and it was a bit warm. Hiking up I realized how close the drop off is and one mistake could send us over the edge. We neared the water fall and cautiously crossed. Then the real steep part is upon us. Coach Nikon told me it reminded him of the climb up Devils Thumb. We could see where we needed to go which sucks because of how steep it was. Once on the top we had on last major obstacle, crossing highway 50.

In the middle of the water fall

The view going down the cliff, it really was steeper then this looks

The trail, notice how close it is to the cliff?

Traffic was much heavier and as we started to job across a car came around the bend and we both started sprinting as we still had a ways to go. We made it across and slowly made our way back to the cabin. The last mile was brutal, we were so close but we were still climbing on the pavement. We ran the small descent and arrived back at the cabin in one piece, well sort of.

Jumping Bean doing planks after the run

Doing bicep curls with a coke and a beer, much better then planks!

The run was great; it was just what I needed as my last long run before Run on The Sly 50k in two weeks. Coach Nikon gave me a confidence boost saying a 5 hour 20 mile run at elevation is really good, especially with the climbs we did today. I always enjoy running with Coach Nikon because he is very positive and encouraging and that is very contagious. Thanks to everyone who ventured out on this adventure.

Out of the 6 of us 3 of us fell. 50% ate dirt on the trail in Tahoe. I left some blood there and I took some Tahoe dirt home with me as it is embedded in the cuts on my fingers.

Feeling Good

2011-08-06T05:25:00.000-07:00

The past couple of weeks my legs have not being feeling 100%. They have been achy after a long days work, stiff when I first wake up in the morning, and all around sore and fatigued. My longest run since TRT 50k was 10 miles with a few 6 miles thrown in to try and loosen them up. Nothing was working, it was hurting to run and my body was feeling it.

I did have a new pair of shoes on order which I picked up on Wednesday of this week. You know what the most amazing thing was? The next Thursday, I woke up and my legs felt alive, no aches, no stiffness no pain. It was almost as if my legs and feet new that I had a new pair of shoes and my legs were no ready to actually run again. I headed out that day for my 10 mile run and everything clicked. Now I do believe the new shoes had something to with it but I also believe that my recovery from TRT just took a bit longer. I also had just returned back to work so my body overall was stressed out to the max with trying to adjust to my abnormal work schedule and stress of being on my feet all day long.

I am very glad that my legs have been feeling better because I almost didn’t want to head up to Tahoe today for a run with Coach Nikon and Jumping Bean. I didn’t want to get there and have my legs rebel at me, but I don’t think that will be an issue. Plus this long run will give me chance to really think about an opportunity that came my way. I can’t touch too much on it, but I will say it is a big decision not to be taken lightly. An opportunity that won’t last forever either.

I am glad my legs are feeling better and I am sure today’s run will help me clear my head. Here is too a great run, one that will help recharge me.

Lil Man and Fleet Feet

2011-08-03T18:33:00.000-07:00

Today after work was Meme time with Lil Man. I had the honor of picking him up from preschool. Once I arrived and rounded the corner he was already running to me and jumping into my arms. It was almost as if he knew it was me. He gave me the biggest hug and he couldn’t wait for our special day to begin.

Our first stop of course was Fleet Feet. We wanted to check out the new renovations that have been taking place. Let me tell you the store looks awesome. It is a totally different store visually stunning. If you haven’t checked it out you need to head over there, it looks awesome.

This is where all the cool kids put their Fleet Feet Stickers

His collection

After the tour of the new and improved Fleet Feet Fair Oaks store both Lil man and chit chatted with the staff, who have become very fond of Lil Man. When he walks in everyone says hi to him and he enjoys it. He gets a huge smile on his face and he is even getting braver in the store. This time around I didn’t have to go to Captain Kirk’s office with him he went all by himself. He even explored the back room as he was looking for the exercise balls he uses to do his arm exercises.

During today’s visit there was almost a minor situation as in my shoes that were ordered last week might have been sold. I knew that I couldn’t take 1 more week in the shoes I was in, but Captain Kirk came to the rescue and found them in the back room. Thank You Captain Kirk, I almost had to buy the shoes with pink on them. Lil Man of course was paying really close attention to the conversation and had no problem telling Captain Kirk “you messed up Meme’s shoes” and once Captain Kirk told Lil Man he fixed everything Lil Man said “You fixed everything!” In the long run I have my shoes, Lil Man challenged Captain Kirk, and Captain Kirk saved the day!

Before we left Lil Man was given a present.

Bringing the present home

Getting ready to unwrap the present

If you remember he is in charge of store operations, basically it is his job to inspect the store for any outstanding violations i.e.; the door mat needs to be outside, shoes in the back room need to be put away, ECT…you know things everyone notices. (Not really everyone) Today since there is a new door mat he was allowed to take the old door mat home. But before we could bring home he needed to vacuum it. Then it was rolled up and placed in the back of my car. What a special day, I mean it is not every day that you get an awesome Fleet Feet door mat. Do you have one?

Surprise!

Once we arrived home we had to put the mat in its place and what better place then to designate a spot in the garage as his parking space for his buzz light-year bike.

Parking his bike

Yup looks good Meme

After that it was time to get ready for swim lessons.

"Meme I am ready"

Off to swim lessons we go:

-Swim suit on-check

- sunglasses-check

-chocolate milk-check

-book for car ride-check.

He was set. He did awesome at swim lessons, his 15 minute lesson actually ended up being 25 minutes. He showed me how he could blow bubbles, hold his breath, roll over, swim arm over arm splashing in the water. He swam the entire length of the pool rolling over on his back to catch his breath. Pretty impressive for a three year old.

Keeping entertained

All in all it was a great day with Lil Man. He had exceptional listening skills today and was a little gentleman. I always enjoy my special time with him and today was really special.

This is where I am sure Traildog is spending his time while I am away

Getting Enough Calories

2011-08-02T15:10:00.000-07:00

I have been back to work now a full 7 days. The first few days my sleep cycle was totally non existent or I should say I was no where to be found. I was so tired and exhausted from returning to work all I could do was sit. Now let me remind you that I am on my feet for a good 9 hours a shift give or take a very quick sit down break like maybe 5 minutes if I am lucky. My body is tired from the day and also still trying to adjust to getting to sleeping at a weird hour.

With that I haven't run that much. The last run I did was on Friday and it was only 6 miles. My legs last week weren't feeling "right." They felt tired, loaded up, dead, heavy the list goes on. I thought it best to rest a few a days and see if that helped. I rested after work of course all weekend and again on Monday. Today Tuesday after work I decided I should get some miles in. I mean I do have a race in August and then my 50 miler in September.

I did do some thinking while I was resting, and I thought that maybe just maybe my legs were feeling this way because of lack of calories. Maybe I am not eating enough. I eat a bowl of cereal with some fruit in the morning, glass of water and my coffee. But recently I am finding myself starving just 3 hours into my shift. I do a lot of brisk walking at work, some lifting and pushing of tubs and flat beds, pulling of pallets, and the occasional climb up a ladder. But 3 hours in and I am starving. My stomach is growling at me and demanding some food.

The next time I eat is usually a handful of pretzels or goldfish and that is maybe 7 hours into my shift, I deny the initial hunger early on. If I remember I might have had a sip of water, even though my water cup is sitting on my desk in plain sight, but I don't always walk to my desk. I usually get some real food in me when I get home. That consist of a cheese stick, followed by a sandwich and then some water and then I might run and play with Lil Man and head to bed. So probably not enough calories for what I need my body to do.

Going forward I need to eat a heartier breakfast, maybe throw in a bagel with peanut butter. I could even take that to work to snack on a few hours in. I also need to do a better job at packing more food to eat. Today I managed to eat a chicken salad sandwich, and a breakfast bowl which had eggs and bacon and potatoes. When I got home after running this afternoon I enjoyed some fresh vegetables, mashed potatoes and chicken. A little bit better, but I need to find consistency with my calorie intake. I need more calories, that way I wont be craving the junk food which I try to avoid and maybe I wont feel so tired and irritable. Hmm what a concept.

Lil Man has missed the past few days as I am house sitting for some friends. I did head over there after work today, I ran 6 miles cleaned up and waited for Lil Man to come from pre-school. He told his mommy when he saw my car "Meme is home from the other house." I find it cute that he remembered where I was. I also learned that Traildog has not been very good. My brother in law just put in a new drop system and Traildog was caught chewing on it. Not a good boy.

Tomorrow is Meme day with Lil Man. I get to pick him up from pre-school and spend some quality time with him. I even get to take him to swim lessons and I am sure a trip to Fleet Feet will be made. I can't wait, he even remembered when I came over for a short visit today.

Anybody else struggle with getting enough calories?

Just not Feeling It

2011-07-28T09:06:00.000-07:00

This morning when I woke up I was in a daze. I had to really focus on what time it was, was I suppose to be at work and if so was I late? I had no clue what day it was. Then slowly but surely it all came together for me. The day was Thursday, and no I do not work on Thursday I am off free to do whatever I felt like. Whew crisis resolved.

It was 4:30 in the morning and sleeping in felt really good. Yes, I slept in. Typically I wake up at 1am and get ready for my 2:30 am start time at work. Brutal I tell you. This is not early morning to me, this is still considered graveyard, but yet it wasn’t considered that. My body was tired, it is the first week back to work and every since returning it has been nonstop action, constantly moving snacking on pantry foods “goldfish” because I didn’t have time for a hot meal. And I wonder why I am so tired after my work week or for that matter after my work day. I truly cannot explain how hard it is, you just have to believe me or try it out for yourself one week.

Needless to say I really didn’t feel like a long run would be in my best interest today. It probably would have put too much stress on my body. I almost talked myself out of running again this morning but ultimately decided that a nice early morning run around the neighborhood would be good for me and my legs.

The early morning run was great, I enjoy the crisp fresh air, seeing the neighborhood wake up and head of to work or wherever the day takes them, enjoy seeing sprinklers turning on and off and it’s just me and the road. The humidity this morning was a bit muggy, but the good news was it wasn’t hot like yesterdays run. I figure that on days I work I will attempt to run in the heat and my non working days I will either do my long run or what I did this morning (6 miles).

My legs felt a bit heavy and there was a little twitch in my hamstring which caused me to slow my pace down for fear of pulling something and risking injury. I figure this week I will keep my runs nice and short and plan on a long run next weekend. This will have given my body 3 weeks to rest/recovery from my last race. I know I have a 50k coming up on August 21, but my base has been built and I need to go into that race healthy and also leave that race healthy because the Sierra Nevada Endurance Run will be here before I know it.

Back at work and running in the heat

2011-07-27T15:45:00.000-07:00

I was dreading going back to work early Tuesday morning, but funny thing, it actually wasn't that bad. Yes, I only managed to get 4 hours of sleep and then it was time to go off to work. But amazingly I wasn’t tired all day. Probably because once I arrived at work it was nonstop action, constant go go go, no stopping lots to do not a whole lot of time to get it done. I survived my first day and once it was all over I thought I was going to crash hard, but I didn’t until later that evening.

The next day was just as jammed packed as Tuesday only this time I didn’t have a 2500 piece trailer plus p-fresh. All I had was a tiny 1600 piece trailer. That is a piece of cake.

I always have mixed emotions returning, but I could really tell that my body and my mind needed a break from work. I didn’t realize how drained and how stressed out I was becoming nor did I see the signs.

Upon returning I found myself having more energy mentally and I also noticed freshness in my step. A vacation was really what I needed to recharge my batteries. I can only imagine where I would be if I hadn’t taken a vacation.

Today after work I decided I should head out for a run, I almost talked myself out of the run but ultimately I held strong and ran in the mid day heat. The heat just about stopped me in my tracks; it was brutally hot on the pavement today. I thought I was going to melt away; maybe I should have talked myself out of this run. I managed a very slow 6 miles around my neighborhood. I had to stop periodically and walk, but I think that was due to my legs being extremely fatigued from work or maybe the fact that I should have eaten something before heading out on this voyage.

I know that I need to run in the heat and I also know that when I do run in the heat my pace is going to be a bit slower until I am adapted to the heat. Did I mention my body really doesn’t do very well in the heat, but it is a part of running and a part of the Sierra Nevada Endurance Run.

Even Traildog thought it was to hot to walk

It's Official

2011-07-24T17:27:00.000-07:00

It’s finally official, I signed up for the Sierra Nevada Endurance Run. This is the race that last year I DNF at Twin rocks with maybe 5miles to the finish. It was a brutal race last year; the heat alone was a killer, coming into the race with an injury on top of that not good.

I have been putting off signing up maybe secretly hoping it would fill, or that I would not want to run this particular 50 again. But I have been talking about this race since December and I know deep down I want Redemption from my 2010 attempt. It also scares the living day lights out of me. I dare not read my race report from last year as I really do not want to relive that day.

The fear was real when I signed up for this race. As I clicked on the registration page and it became official a wave of anxiety and panic overwhelmed me. My hands became sweaty, my heart beat increased, and my breath became very short and labored. “Oh my God what have I done” is all I kept thinking, but then a crazy thing happened…calmness….just as quickly as those symptoms came on they were gone in a heartbeat and calmness was all I felt.

I was calm for the first time thinking about this race. Calm because I am now 100% committed and I know what I need to do to achieve my objective. Committed, I am committed and when I commit to something I am all in.

My goal is to get to the start of this race one healthy, and two injury free.

My training this year has been on point. Tahoe Rim Trail 50k was awesome, tough but a great race with a nice PR, American River 50 was a great race also. I achieved my qualifying time to be put my name into Western States for 2012 and I also PR. I ran Way Too Cool 50k for the first time and had a nice time at this race. Up next Run on the Sly 50k. I am planning on using this run as a training run for the Sierra Nevada Endurance Run.

A training run because it starts later then most ultras, a 7:30 am start time, so hopefully I can judge how my body does in the heat, if it is hot that day. A nice hilly course so that I can improve my leg strength and best of all I am hoping to run this run with some of my ultra friends and training partners and team mates.

Its official the stage has been set and I have now fully accepted the fact that I will once again run the Sierra Nevada Endurance Run. I am facing my fear and moving forward instead of away from it. My fear of this race will help make me a stronger person and a stronger runner.

First Run on Tired Legs Still

2011-07-21T15:39:00.000-07:00

This morning I headed out the door for my first run since TRT on Saturday. As my run progressed I could still feel the fatigue in my legs. They were tired and not liking this run. I knew I didn't want to push my luck so I took my time on this run around my neighborhood, my loop is pretty hilly which caused me more fatigue.

Usually Thursday is my long run day, but I am very glad that I decided on a easy pace for 6 miles. I would hate to find out how things would have turned out if I went longer today. Tomorrow I have a massage scheduled with Lily from Massage by Lily. It is funny how things work out because I wasn't originally planning on getting a massage tomorrow, but as luck would have she called me and one thing lead to another and I have a appointment for tomorrow. Very glad she had called and can't wait for some needed relief tomorrow.

Lil Man returned to pre-school, but as soon as he got home he couldn't wait to play with me. We played cars in his very messy room, we played with Traildog, and then Lil Man had this great idea to go outside and catch butterflies in his net.

Catching butterflies, Do you see any?

We stayed outside for maybe 10 minutes before the heat was to much for Lil Man. I found him sitting in the shade on the steps. He almost abandoned me but I talked him into staying outside for a bit longer with me. Before we headed back inside we caught Traildog on top of the chairs outside.

I sometimes wonder if Traildog thinks he is a human and not a dog. Right now Lil Man is next door enjoying some pool time with his friend.

The rest of this week I will plan on staying focused on rest and recovery. Letting my body recharge before doing any major long runs, but I will be running that much I know for sure. Just not too long yet.

Tahoe

2011-07-20T19:07:00.000-07:00

Today was my last day in Tahoe and as I packed the car up and was getting ready to leave I was a bit sad. I had enjoyed my time in Tahoe with my nephew Lil Man and my sister. I enjoyed not being on a schedule and just hanging out and doing what ever we pleased. The other day we spent most if not all the day down at the beach bouncing back from the lake to the pool and back to the lake. Lil Man had a lot of fun when I told him I would play in the lake with him. We went into the "deep" end and would "run" out and then run back in laughing the entire time. It is amazing how entertaining this was for us both and I am sure anyone who happened to be watching us.

Spending some time on the dock with his scooter

Making sand castles, which by the way for the record I am not good at, they all collapsed.

Enjoying some time off my feet after TRT 50k

What a view

His laughter says it all, fun had by all.

Running from the top of the hill to the lake

Picking up speed, almost there

Not only did we spend some at the beach, but also at the playground. I ran around playing good guys and bad guys with Lil Man. I even went down the slide after him. It was good to be laughing and playing like a kid again. I will always remember this vacation.

All by himself

he screamed the entire way down, yes I know it is not that big, but he was having fun and so was I.

This trip wasn't without it's bumps and bruises though. For one Lil Man has a nice gash on his chin from where he hit his chin on the coffee table after tumbling off of the couch. The cushions were not on the couch all the way and when he went to get down to get his crayons he fell and knocked his chin on the table. There was blood everywhere, but like a true trooper he cried a little and then calmed down and once everything was under control he enjoyed a fruit snack. I thought for sure we were going to be making our way to the ER on that fall.

He is really working it, post accident all cleaned up and in some new clothes and enjoying his fruit snack.

On last memory before leaving

Until next time, and I can't wait to get back. Hmm Maybe in August or September or maybe October?

We all had a great time on this trip. Now it is time to get back to training, eating healthier, and focusing on my next race. I am running Run on the Sly 50k as a training run for my Redemption race in September, Sierra Nevada 50 Miler. Last year I was a DNF my first DNF and this time around I don't want that to happen. I am healthier (right now) fitter and have more experience, but I am still nervous about this race too many interesting memories. Time to Focus!

Vacation in South Lake Tahoe

2011-07-18T17:09:00.000-07:00

After TRT 50k it was some time for some R&R and what better place to take a vacation than South Lake Tahoe. My sister and Lil Man came up with me and the last few days have been fun filled. We went on the nature walk at Taylor Creek, saw the old estates and spent a lot of time on the beach and at the pool. Lil Man has enjoyed his special trip and I have been enjoying some time off away from work and all the hustle and bustle of my normal life.

What more could I ask for?

Enjoying the view and some mommy time

We never get a group photo. My twin sister and lil man and me

Time for some rock throwing

Taylor Creek Stream Profile

Just mesmerized by the fish

A bit tired but nothing is going to stop him from taking his pine cones home, not even a snack

Pool Time

Canyon Ball!!

Enjoying the pool

Playing on the beach

It has been very nice just relaxing. We spent most of today at the beach and the pool. The great thing is the beach is right outside our door about a 25yd walk which makes it very convenient for when he/I get tired and need a short break or a snack or a beer. It has been nice not having any sort of schedule and just doing what we all want to do. I will be sad when our time here is up but for now I am just enjoying every moment.

Tahoe Rim Trail 50k Race Report

2011-07-18T07:28:00.000-07:00

At the start of the Tahoe Rim Trail I was excited, I said hi to other runners I knew and lined up next to Trish and Monica. The countdown began and we were off and running up the fire road to Marlette’s single track which would take me to the peak and back down. I ran the entire fire road this year, last year I had to walk some of it. My legs at the start were feeling good, but the one thing that wasn’t feeling good were my lungs. With all those runners on the fire road the dust was unbearable. I was breathing it in and was having trouble breathing, yes some of that trouble was the elevation as we were probably at 7,000ft with the highest point on the course reaching 9,214ft.

Me, Anthony, Kuni Photo by Dasie

Once the single track came so did the conga line. This time I was able to run more of this first major climb. I did incorporate hiking breaks as now my legs were feeling dead from all of the climbing. I would run some hike some and repeat. The conga line wasn’t that bad; I just settled in and focused on myself not worrying about who was passing me as I knew I most likely would be seeing some of these runners later on in the day. Of course it wasn’t all positive thinking, I started to have those negative thoughts. “Why am I doing this race?” “I am never doing this race again, it isn’t any fun it is just a pure torture fest?” I know pretty extreme and I was only a few miles in. My legs were still feeling dead I couldn’t find any rhythm and I finally told myself that I needed to do something about it; this dead leg feeling wasn’t going to fix itself. I took in some GU and also an S-cap and soon enough my legs were feeling better. Why I didn’t do it sooner I don’t know, just glad I did. Now that my legs were feeling better I was running smoother, the rolling terrain to the top didn’t seem that tough and my attitude changed. Just before I hit the top Monica and Trish came flying by me as I was hiking. I hooked on with them and Trish led us to the top and to our first descent. The interesting fact about Trish and Monica is this is the same area they passed me last year.

The first descent isn’t that long, but it is long enough and gave my legs a break. I didn’t open up and fly down this descent because my legs were still feeling funky from all of the climbing. I just followed the pace of the others in front of me. As I neared the bottom though my legs were feeling a lot better and I was getting more comfortable on the trails.

At the bottom there is fire road, luckily this fire road was not choking me with dust. I ran when the road wasn’t too steep, but soon enough the fire road became steep. Now how I forgot about the steepness and how long this fire road really is I will never know. I must have had selective memory last year. The hill just kept going. While hiking up I fueled with my GU and just put my head down and kept charging up the hill. The hill does end, but my legs were once again dead. I hit the single tack and am trying to find my rhythm but just can’t, I take another s-cap and that seems to have helped.

I arrive at Hobart aid station and quickly down a coke, grab another to help wash down my PB&J as my mouth was very dry and my gag reflex was in full effect. I managed to wash the PB&J down and I was off.

I started climbing and had my first encounter of many through the snow. There were steps built into the snow to help us out. I was very uncomfortable on the snow. My feet kept slipping and I knew at any minute I was going to go down. I made it over this obstacle and kept on hiking making my way to Tunnel Creek where Kuni and Dasie might be. I reached the peak and paused quickly to take in the view and then continued on. During this stretch there was so much snow I had to cross over. I really had to pay attention to the markings so that I didn’t go off trail. The snow never ended and it started taking a toll on my legs. My feet kept slipping I couldn’t get any traction. I kept moving and when there was no snow I would run, but then not long there was more snow. Some stretches all I could see was snow. There was one very steep section where I had to crawl up it with my hands and legs and as I was doing this I wondered to myself, “How am I supposed to get down that?” I was so happy once my feet were back on the dirt. I moved a bit quicker knowing I had some time to make up.

As I reached the top and started my descent I opened it up knowing this descent would take me into Tunnel Creek aid station. Of course there was still snow on this descent. Switch back after switch back more snow and more snow. I was cruising and getting a bit more comfortable in crossing the snow when my feet went out from under me and I was down. I tried to scamper back up and my feet slid out from under me again. I scurried off the snow drift and hurried to my feet. My right leg felt like it was just shaved with a piece of glass. It burned, but I didn’t have any time to think about it I had to keep moving. I did tell myself that I would not be looking forward to the return trip through this section.

As I finished the descent the trail becomes relativity flat. My legs after that descent did not like the flat ground. I was having a hard time transitioning, but I kept them moving and eventually made my way into Tunnel Creek Aid Station. My time at this point was 2hrs and 45 minutes and my attitude was not positive. I was once again hating this race and wondering why I even signed up for it. Daisy and Kuni were there and I said hi to them and I am sure the expression on my face said a lot. I was not having fun, but I was hoping that Red House Loop of Hell would bring me back, just like it did last year. I grabbed a handful of pretzels as I didn’t see any PB&J and made my way down to Hell.

The Red House Loop is notoriously known as The Taste of Hell. I flew down because for some reason my legs were feeling great and my attitude was more positive, maybe from seeing Kuni and Dasie.

Down, down I go further into the depths of the Red House. I passed Monica and Trish and this loop we would be hop scotching, as they would catch and pass me on the climbs. Further down I go until eventually I make it to the bottom. The stream crossings this year were longer and deeper but the cold water felt really good on my feet and my ankles.

By now it was time to start climbing; I would run some then hike. While hiking I would fuel, knowing I needed this fuel. My throat was very dry and it was during this loop that I thought I was going to get sick. Every time I took in some GU I would gag and have to quickly wash it down. I also developed a very dry hacking cough that made fueling difficult. This cough lasted the entire race. I would just start coughing uncontrollably, but I kept moving. I surely was given a taste of Hell this time around on the Red House Loop. Monica and Trish passed and I just tagged along with them for a bit. When they ran I did, when they hiked I also hiked, I just needed to keep moving and being with them gave me the motivation I was lacking on my own.

The three of us made it to the Red House and what do we see there, but an aid station even after there was an email sent out saying there would be no aid in the Red House Loop. I looked at the table and kept on moving. I just wanted to get out. The climb kept going, I just kept moving. I passed Trish and Monica on the climb and just kept moving. I kept climbing, running when I could. My quads were feeling really sore and twitchy; I hope I didn’t blow my quads up because I still needed them. I was in survival mode. I didn’t care who passed me I just knew I needed to keep moving and that I would eventually see them again. The climb was brutal this year, I was hacking up a lung, gagging every time I fueled, Ialso found myself singing Go find it on the Mountain, but I kept pushing forward making my way back to Tunnel Creek. I completed the Red House loop in 1 hour and 30 minutes.
I arrived at Tunnel Creek, re-filled my pack and also had to refill my flask. I was almost empty. I put some water in my flask followed by three GUs; I needed it more diluted so that it would go down easier. I downed some coke and was out of the aid station not too far behind Trish and Monica who passed me at the aid station. I slowly caught back up to Trish and Monica and just hooked on with them. We were climbing back to the snow and the Hobart aid station. Trish let me pass and I just powered on, thinking in my head they were going to catch me. That lit a fire in me and I increased my power hike. I pushed myself my legs were feeling really good and alive. There was another runner with me and she told me I was setting a good pace. I appreciated that comment and kept it up, running when I could and hiking when it became too steep. I had to let the runner pass me as there was a rock digging into my heal and it was painful, plus I didn’t want a blister which would just slow me down. I tried to get the rock out but to no avail. So I continued moving and the discomfort soon went away.

I was moving pretty well on this climb and moving over the snow better. But soon the huge area of snow patch was upon me and I had to really pay attention as there were foot prints going every which direction and the markers were hard to find. I was with another runner (Katy) and we chit chatted and helped each other stay on course. Remember that really steep area, were I had to crawl up it with my hands and feet, well I arrived there and just looked at it perplexed. Katy suggested going down backwards feet first, I thought about it and then decided to just slide down it on my butt. It was pretty fun and I only wished I had some video of it to share. We continued on our way over the snow and again my feet slid out from under me and I landed on my left side. This fall jarred my back and my hip some. I got up and continued on my way.

We were almost to Hobart Aid station with only two more snow drifts to conquer. I eased myself onto the snow and picked up my pace as it was a bit more runnable, one more snow drift. There was a volunteer redigging out the snow to make it a bit easier and I thanked him for his work. I arrived at Hobart and just had 10 miles to go. I was excited, I quickly grabbed some paydays and some coke, had my pack re-filled. As I was eating my payday I had a coughing attack which lasted for awhile. I left the aid station still coughing making my way to Snow Valley which was a 3 mile climb.

I was feeling strong on my to Snow Valley, my legs were alive and I was excited as I had only 10 miles to go. Now instead of just surviving the race was beginning. I started passing other runners the girl who ran some with me from Tunnel Creek to Hobart was with me to Snow Valley. But soon I started to slow down, I decided to let the three runners behind me to pass so that I could focus on fueling and that is what I did. I kept them in my sights though and fueled all the way to Snow Valley, I knew I would need this fuel for the descent to the finish. Snow Valley was now only 1 mile away. We had to cross some more snow drifts and as we neared the top the drifts became longer and slipper. Now only .5 to go to the aid station. Here one of the runners friends were waiting for him and he fell in line behind me, only when I turned around to see who was quickly coming up on me I had panic look on my face and a surge of adrenaline. He quickly told me he wasn’t in the race and I calmed down a bit. He helped distract me from the last climb and then the aid station was in sight. I ran into the aid station at 12:30. I downed two cokes and was off.

I knew the descent was going to be where I would pick up some time. It was 12:30 I had an hour to get to the finish by 1:30 which would 7.5 hours my target goal. That fired me up and ran as fast as my short legs would go. I pushed myself fired up and on a mission. My mission was to pass as many runners as I could. The runners in front of me were my targets. My focus was like a razor beam. I was on a mission. My legs were feeling awesome. I would approach a runner and they would step off as I neared, one by one I passed each runner that passed me on the climb to Snow Valley. Each time I passed a runner I became faster not wanting them to pass me later on. Down I go, down, down the rocky single track trail hopping over rocks, side stepping other boulders pushing off of the boulders moving like a runner on a mission.

I kept moving and I kept passing runners, as I neared the bottom there was a bit of a climb. I power hiked this climb and fueled knowing I would need it. I took in a s-cap so my legs would stay together. Once I say the top of the climb I ran and continued my mission. Another little climb but I ran it now not wanting to lose any time. Keep moving, I kept checking behind me to see if anyone was closing in on me, but there was no one in sight. I saw a runner ahead of me, my next target. I pushed harder and passed them and I kept pushing even though I had a bit of a climb. I told myself it was just like running up to Cool keep my legs moving and arms pumping. Soon I hit the hard right turn gave my number to the volunteers at this “aid station” and kept moving.

I knew this 1.5 miles to the finish was going to be tough as it was flat. I couldn’t slow down but it was inevitable. I kept looking behind me, but didn’t see anyone. I had to walk to stretch my quads out, but I walked for a short time and then I was shuffling. I could see the finish tents and knew I was close, but dam I had to go around the lake first. I was almost to the wooden bridge; I knew it was about .5 from there. Before I hit the wooden bridge I ran through some aspens and my foot caught a huge root and I was doing the super man pose. The pose where my face is almost in the dirt, my arms are held behind me and my legs are pumping as fast as they can to catch up with my falling body. I managed to recover and keep on running but it took some wind out of my sail. I crossed the bridge and the end was near. Then I heard it, the footsteps of runners behind me. I looked behind and it wasn’t just 1 runner, but there were 2 male runners. I pumped my legs harder, I could hear the cheers but I was so focused on not letting those guys pass me. I pushed harder I was in a dead sprint oh my God I hope I don’t fall. Faster and Faster I went I could feel them right on me, but I wasn’t going to let them pass me, not after all the work I did on this section. I reached the finish line and a step behind me they crossed. It was close, but I held those 2 runners off.

At the Finish and still smiling photo by Dasie

I crossed in 7 hours and 44 minutes and 20 seconds. It was PR for me. by 34 mintues, I had the biggest smile on my face. The 50k was actual 34.4 miles. I am very pleased with my results. Will I do this race again next year???? Probably not, I say that now but when registration comes along who knows.

Fuel: 15 GUS
          1 PB&J square
          Handful of Pretzels
          Coke-not sure how many
         My all time Favorite-Chap stick-
         Water

Blisters: Zero

Toe Nails to be lost: Looks like 1 due to the tree I tripped over with less than .5 to go to the finish.

Hacking Cough for 24 hours

Brand new PR: Priceless

2011 Repdemption is on!

Time to head home!

Excited for Tahoe Rim Trail 50k

2011-07-15T07:57:00.000-07:00

The time is finally here TRT 50k is tomorrow. Now if you were to ask me back in May if I was excited for this race I would have told you yes, but deep down inside during the Month of May and part of June I was not really looking forward to it. I started second guessing why I signed up and if I really wanted to do this race. But as time went on and I continued training things on the inside took a turn. I started getting excited about this race.

I began looking at things in a new eye with a new attitude. I dived into last year race report and what I went through, if you remember I had a very tough race. I threw up twice the first time being at mile 9 and then again at mile 15ish or so. My fueling was off most of the day and the only glimmer of hope I had was when I saw my amazing friends and personal Fleet Feet Crew of Three during the race and at the finish. They helped me pull it together. The one thing I can say about last years race is I never gave up, I kept moving forward I kept digging deep and I finished.

I also looked at my time for last year and the competitiveness came out. I wonder if I could do better this year and if so by how much? That competitive drive came out and I trained even harder. I did hill repeats, I pushed myself to run/jog up the hills I would otherwise power hike and soon enough my legs were getting stronger, my confidence grew and the excitement built up inside.

Today if you were to ask me that same question, the answer with all of my heart would be yes, I can't wait to run tomorrow. I can't wait to get to the starting line and see what I can do. My taper over the past few weeks has been good, I went through the usually taper crazies, legs misfiring when running the twitches, the short temper that comes with it the need to run longer but holding back.

But then a beautiful thing happened on my last run which was yesterday. Everything feel into place. There was a sense of calmness, my mind for the first time was rested and in the moment and not thousands of miles away, my legs were firing on all cylinders, there were no twitches or pain coming from my body. I was totally at peace I was ready for what ever TRT had to bring me. My goal for this race is to run it anywhere from 7-8 hours, but looking for a 7:30 finish. Considering the terrain, elevation that is a doable goal.

I am ready and can't wait to let it go on the beautiful single track trails in Tahoe.

A Special Camp Out

2011-07-11T15:44:00.000-07:00

This past weekend Lil Man had a special night that his Dad planned for him. First we all headed to the movies to see Cars 2. It was a cute movie, edge of the seat kind of movie for Lil Man. We all enjoyed popcorn while the pre-screening wasn't showing but we could hear it. I was lucky enough to get the entire bag to myself while Mom and Dad and Lil Man shared the tray. Lil Man insisted on sharing with mommy. After the Cars 2 movie we all headed home and Lil Man and Dad were getting ready for a spectacular evening.
Brent had been promising Lil Man he would go camping and it finally happened. A camp out that happened in the backyard. Lil Man came running to my room and told me we were going to sleep in the tent. I of course had no clue what was going on and just thought he was using his imagination and said sure I will sleep in the "tent" with you. Next thing I knew he was having me put my shoes on, he grabbed two pillows one for me and one for him and we hurried to the backyard where I saw the tent. He then grabbed his tiny little lion blanket and told me this blanket was for me. It would barely cover my legs, but I smiled and said OK. He even had Shamu with him, he was all set.

Only the best for Lil Man and his Dad

Once the tent was up it was time to roast some marshmallows and make some S'mores. Americas favorite camping treat. This would be Lil Man's first time enjoying a smore. He even managed to roast his marshmallow, though it did catch on fire and charred the outside.

Learning from the master (his dad)

Reach Lil Man

It's about to catch fire!

Once the construction was complete it was time for his first bite. His first bite was a bit hesitant but once that oozy goodness and chocolaty Graham cracker touched his tongue he was in heaven. He ate the entire smore.

Constructing the perfect s'more

His first bite

He was so excited about his "camping" trip that he was in his PJ well before 8 and off the to the tent he goes. I talked my way out of it because I didn't want to interfere with his daddy's time and the special camping trip. Lil Man lasted until 9:30ish when he told his daddy he was ready to go back inside now.

The best smore and camp out ever

I bet he dreamt about smores that night

The next morning though the first thing Lil Man said once he woke up was when he could camping again. Memories I am sure that will last forever.