tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30885753991977739302024-03-13T09:33:22.143-07:00Health and Wellness on the RunRunning through life achieving health and wellness with laughter along the way.Health and Wellness on the runhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00970865652929893870noreply@blogger.comBlogger41125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3088575399197773930.post-68131656004576938762020-04-10T12:08:00.001-07:002020-04-10T12:08:04.213-07:00HIIT Workouts for Home WorkoutsHow is everyone doing staying home to stay well? I am getting things done and happy to be moving in a slower gear. I am eagerly awaiting the birth of my second granddaughter, but as you know, we have zero influence on this :)<br />
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Here are 3 HIIT workouts for your home workout repertoire that were filmed a couple of years ago.<br />
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The first one is cardio based:<br />
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<a href="https://youtu.be/8pI4XNn1peY" target="_blank">Cindy Barbour- HIIT Video #1</a><br />
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The second one is cardio/strength based:<br />
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<a href="https://youtu.be/rUymKE2_5CI" target="_blank">Cindy Barbour- HIIT Video #2</a><br />
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The third one is best suited for Level 1 participants:<br />
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<a href="https://youtu.be/ljwYtDgISPE" target="_blank">Cindy Barbour- HIIT for Level 1 or Rehabilitation</a><br />
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Keep your motivation high and your negative thoughts low.....let me know what you think!<br />
<br />Health and Wellness on the runhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00970865652929893870noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3088575399197773930.post-79320226644886649762020-04-07T14:57:00.000-07:002020-04-07T14:57:14.420-07:00A little Old School Upper Body + Core workoutHey there-<br />
It's been a while since I have seen faces in person! Hope everyone is staying well and safe. I wanted to offer some quick advice during this pandemic: KEEP EXERCISING! <br />
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Your body needs an avenue where you can relieve some built up tension. Working out is free and safe. Today's workout is with dumbbells. If you do not have any, cans of food, old milk jugs, etc make good substitutes. <br />
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Keep exercise and positive emotions a priority to buffer against depression (Dolphin, Steinhardt, & Cance 2015). Schedule your workouts in your daytimer to hold yourself accountable. Don't let the day just slip away.<br />
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This workout is about 26 minutes long. Grab a mat, weights and water and join in at your own risk :)<br />
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You can also check out some of the meditation podcasts here:</div>
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<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/health-and-wellness-on-the-run/id1504867556?i=1000470677610" target="_blank">Apple Podcast Link</a></div>
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Keep it going!</div>
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Health and Wellness on the runhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00970865652929893870noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3088575399197773930.post-70987735761365065132020-03-23T09:12:00.000-07:002020-03-23T09:12:39.159-07:00Beginning Meditation Free LinkIn these uncertain times anxiety is at an all time high. While social distancing and staying at home, I decided I wanted to resurrect my blog and give wellness tips once again. Quite a bit has happened since I last wrote here, but suffice it to say; through all the struggle and strife I could not be happier. My mindset is the key. As Buddha once said, "Each morning we are born again. What we do today is what matters most".<br />
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I am keeping my distance, yet continuing to do things I love like running, teaching group exercise and imparting my (well seasoned) healthy lifestyle tips. <br />
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Many people do not know that I am a certified Life Coach. I have used the knowledge in my every day existence but never went into practice. I may be delving deeper in this arena as I have retired from full-time work and am doing small projects to enhance my life and those around me. I still aspire to inspire.<br />
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Let's start with a beginning meditation. This is only 6 minutes long, yet will help you set the tone for the day. I welcome any and all feedback. Please let me know what you want more of, less of, etc. There are some workouts on the @shred415greensboro instagram site you can participate in for free.<br />
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<a href="https://anchor.fm/cindy-kearns-barbour/episodes/6min-meditation-for-beginners-ebqvgm" target="_blank">Click here for Meditation</a><br />
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I may not be on the Appalachian Trail right now, but my mind is. Please subscribe and tell your friends so I can share more, free wellness ideas.Health and Wellness on the runhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00970865652929893870noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3088575399197773930.post-88385118264996538322018-05-11T04:22:00.002-07:002018-05-11T04:22:59.137-07:00Never Thought I Would EVER Use the Word GOODR In a Sentence and Other Ramblings<br />
I have a confession to make: I get slightly anxious when someone asks me to try a new product to give them feedback. My conscience will not let me gloss over something and not be honest. If I do not like whatever it is, I will figure out a way to gently give them the truth, usually starting out with something like, "It's me, not you". You ONLY have your reputation and I take mine very seriously. When our local sports store asked me to try a new brand of sunglasses they were carrying and told me they were only $25.00 I hesitantly said yes. <b>Best. Decision. Ever.</b> These glasses are fantastic! I put aside my almost $200 running glasses and took a test run with my running friend, April. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGYndUyvWAd_QBxXWXu5ndz9tpP8kbnmbC_TvFW4CscHSgbvYu6GoIWDGBRiRjtTFTvdFhHOZgBm-l76xiM1v48diFMdommbbHZn8ahdzEN-KFcGkGn2r_0_zBA6XCKTqDURl6Tr0tuQ1W/s1600/0501181100c%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="686" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGYndUyvWAd_QBxXWXu5ndz9tpP8kbnmbC_TvFW4CscHSgbvYu6GoIWDGBRiRjtTFTvdFhHOZgBm-l76xiM1v48diFMdommbbHZn8ahdzEN-KFcGkGn2r_0_zBA6XCKTqDURl6Tr0tuQ1W/s320/0501181100c%257E2.jpg" width="137" /></a></div>
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It may be a cheesy picture, but this company is all about play. I love their tag line, "<i><b>To destroy the boundary between working out and having fun between the utilitarian and the fashionable</b></i>". The other photo is from our free community yoga class, "Class on the Grass 2018".<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWhepX0zYS9cSKJ2N_M5cv-oe8tdFte07db6w6KoLfY-dLAajYg9gxiwLNANXYjO4QKONf1D8UaNxH71ZuAa_baXMIVIs2aG0cvvUy2A9Tj9eQZMmrTX4ysgali29hzfnFX5nYMqphl2ph/s1600/0429181342b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWhepX0zYS9cSKJ2N_M5cv-oe8tdFte07db6w6KoLfY-dLAajYg9gxiwLNANXYjO4QKONf1D8UaNxH71ZuAa_baXMIVIs2aG0cvvUy2A9Tj9eQZMmrTX4ysgali29hzfnFX5nYMqphl2ph/s320/0429181342b.jpg" width="180" /></a>In 3 days I ran, hiked, did yoga outside at a ballpark, taught a free class under the underpass and walked my dog, Miles ToGo. My sunglasses are affectionately named, Mick & Keith's Midnight Ramble in honor of the Rolling Stones and their epic stay at the Hotel Palazzo Murat in Positano, Italy. I will not bore you with the details, but suffice it to say it cost over 2 million pounds and involved Dom Perignon, llamas, Saucony trail shoes, and a 55 gallon drum of Blackberry Jet Gu (200,000 pounds in case you were wondering how much Gu costs for a 55 gallon drum). These glasses stayed ON my head and never felt as if they would fall off. <br />
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I remember running in a very expensive pair of sunglasses a few years ago and a bug lodged itself between the bill of my visor and my glasses. I quickly swiped to dislodge the bug and my glasses went flying to the pavement scratching (and ruining) the lenses. I remember cursing and being very angry. For $25.00 I can take a chance swatting bugs. <br />
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I would be remiss if I didn't put all the specs for those of you (like me) who are worried about UVA & UVB rays. These glasses have UV protection of 400 which means they block 100% of the UVA & UVB rays. They are polarized to reduce glare and have a no slip, no bounce to them (how do they do that?)<br />
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Anyway, if you live in North Carolina, Omega Sports is now carrying a wide array of these glasses in some very fun colors and of course each pair has a unique name to (and I quote) <i><b>to give you that perfect mix of inspiration and contentment.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Jitlf4dfOG_KBElDrfqg4ol90BnftElrCxBJxx1TlnSvRpjgfXKdhLjPpZZ6zUfLyLaO58yL3iA3ASeTR6Nqm4qQny1RPEPeNj_V-nv9jyiERnnFpMPUfE8GeAeflqIts_kvUydM47pg/s1600/GOODR+sunglasses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="495" data-original-width="1000" height="158" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Jitlf4dfOG_KBElDrfqg4ol90BnftElrCxBJxx1TlnSvRpjgfXKdhLjPpZZ6zUfLyLaO58yL3iA3ASeTR6Nqm4qQny1RPEPeNj_V-nv9jyiERnnFpMPUfE8GeAeflqIts_kvUydM47pg/s320/GOODR+sunglasses.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mick and Keith's Midnight Ramble Goodr Sunglasses </td></tr>
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Don't live in North Carolina? No worries, they have a website <a href="https://www.playgoodr.com/" target="_blank">https://www.playgoodr.com</a><br />
I have even bigger news, if you go over to Instagram at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/cindyrunsmiles/" target="_blank"> @cindyrunsmiles</a> you can register to win YOUR very own pair of Goodr sunglasses courtesy of Omega Sports.<br />
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Suffice it to say, r u n....don't walk to get your very own pair of Goodr glasses.<br />
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Tomorrow I am pacing the 1:45 group at the Carolina Brewfest Half Marathon in High Point, NC. There are still a few spots available, come run with me and see the sunglasses in person (unless it is raining, lol)<br />
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Let's get social together: <br />
Facebook: Cindy Kearns Barbour<br />
Instagram: @cindyrunsmiles<br />
Twitter: @cindybarbour1<br />
Snapchat: cindyabarbour<br />
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*this 52 year old may have been given these sunglasses, but the opinions are solely my own and are not influenced by word FREE<br />
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Upcoming Pacing: Carolina Brewsfest, High Point, NC<br />
Lululemon Sea Wheeze, Vancouver, Canada<br />
Cannonball Half Marathon, Greensboro, NC<br />
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Upcoming Racing: Marine Corps Marathon, Washington, DC<br />
Crooked Road 24 hour Race, Rocky Mount, VA<br />
Kiawah Half Marathon, Kiawah, SC<br />
Wrightsville Beach Half Marathon, Wrightsville Beach, NC<br />
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<br />Health and Wellness on the runhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00970865652929893870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3088575399197773930.post-47233823388265109022018-04-17T13:50:00.000-07:002018-04-17T13:50:59.268-07:00I Went Camping Alone on Friday the 13th and Lived to Tell About It!There is something about the Appalachian Trail that calls me like the sirens in the Odyssey. The pathway with its white blazes beckon me to traverse the trail. The white blazes beckon me keep moving forward. The trail takes my spinning brain and starts to unravel and slow it down. I feel more connected to myself and my loved ones while on the trail. It allows me to process emotions and feelings more thoroughly. I am so lucky to have a husband that knows how important this 2,190 mile journey is to me and never questions why. I don't even think I know the reason why. All I know is that I have been itching to get back on the trail. When the weather forecast for Friday and Saturday was supposed to be beautiful throughout most of the southeast and Dan was scheduled for a couple of rounds of golf, Miles ToGo and I went for an adventure. Miles is now 82.2 pounds and LOVES being off leash and stays very close by while we hike. He is now old enough to carry his own food, but I hadn't bought one yet so I got to carry everything. This time. We hiked 43 miles in 2 days and 1 night of camping. <br />
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I didn't realize it was Friday the 13th until a radio announcer in a commercial was talking about Friday the 13th specials at some local bar in Virginia. My eyes got really big when it dawned on me that TODAY was Friday the 13th. I looked in the rear view mirror and adjusted my <strike>crown</strike> attitude. I can run over 100 miles in 24 hours so I know I can do it. If it meant not sleeping a wink, I think I could have done it. I found solace in that fact. I drove to my starting point at Grayson Highland Park and took off NOBO (Northbound) toward Route 81 where Dan was coming to pick me up to retrieve my car the next evening.<br />
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We hiked some pretty hilly terrain and were rewarded with some awesome views during our hike. Not every mile on the trail is blessed with magnificent views. In fact, you have to work to get to most of them. Miles loved swimming and splashing around in the streams along the trail which were pretty full of water.<br />
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We arrived at the Trimpi Shelter which was where I wanted to camp for the night since the odds were there would be people there and it was Friday the 13th for goodness sake. My fears were allayed as when I arrived there were already 2 thru-hikers setting up for the night. One in the shelter, one in a tent. <br />
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We exchanged pleasantries and I went a little farther away to set up my little tent. My tent feels like my little magic bubble. If I can't see any spiders, snakes, skunks, racoons, bears, bobcats and anyone else in the animal kingdom than they can't see me. Yes, I know that sounds ridiculous but it is my reality. It has worked so far. Anyway, there were 7 in total for the night so I felt some comfort knowing there were people around if I needed them.<br />
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I turned in at 8:15pm because it is dark and I knew we had quite a long day to hike the next day and if I had any prayer of sleep I better try and snag it when I felt I needed it. I slept pretty soundly till 2:30am when Miles bolted upright and let out a low growl. A growl I had never heard before. I was wide awake with my heart pounding, but I never unzipped my tent. Again, I was in my magic bubble. I couldn't hear anything over my beating heart so I just decided to lie back down and try and sleep. I slept fitfully after that and finally got up a little after 6am.<br />
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Miles and I were on the trail by 6:45am and had the best time by ourselves. We crossed over a cute little bridge and then we saw it: a TRAIL MAGIC bus! If you are not familiar with the term it is simply a person or group of people who bring all kinds of food, drinks and supplies and give you handouts of whatever you want. It is magical. I didn't want to take anything since I was only out there 2 days and wanted to save the vast array of goodies for the thru-hikers, but he insisted and I quickly cave in and took a rootbeer and an oatmeal creme pie. Best decision ever made. Trail magic is something I would love to do one day just to see the faces of the hikers. Priceless.<br />
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Anyway, we were off and the rest of the trip was uneventful. We arrived at our prescribed meeting spot (Route 615- Settler's Museum) early so I sat on the porch and called Dan. He was just leaving so he wasn't going to be there for 2 more hours. There was a short stretch that was 2.8 miles so that he could meet me right off of Route 81. After a couple of phone calls, a 20 minute meditation/stretching session, we decided to go for it. I didn't want Dan to wait on me so we actually ran a little bit of it and arrived 20 minutes before Dan got there. <br />
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I sat with Miles on a park bench at a gas station dirty, slightly sunburned, sweaty and tired. I hadn't combed my hair in 2 days (I did brush my teeth 3 times, I do have some standards, lol) so I know I must have looked pretty bad because nice local folk made conversation with me to make sure I was okay and that I didn't need a ride somewhere. I thanked them and gave Dan the biggest hug when I saw him. I didn't care how much I smelled. <br />
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I cannot wait to get back out there. I feel the peace, the tranquility, but more importantly I feel alive.<br />
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xoxo<br />
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<br />Health and Wellness on the runhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00970865652929893870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3088575399197773930.post-1327710190907613262018-04-12T12:23:00.002-07:002018-04-12T12:23:28.127-07:00A Proper Running Send Off for Our Greensboro Boston Bound!To know you are EXACTLY where you are supposed to be and EXACTLY what you are supposed to be doing in life is a treasured gift. I have been one of the lucky ones. I have traveled and seen many parts of the world, but I am most happy with my husband, kids and puppy. Home is definitely where your heart is. Knowing you are doing what you are destined to do allows the body to feel peace and a calm presence. I may be calm now, but I a SUPER excited for our local runners going to Boston this weekend for Monday's epic run!<br />
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My heart this week has been excited for all my friends running Boston on Monday. Patriot's Day. A day where runners connect before, during and after the most momentous race there is; the Boston Marathon. This year is no exception. No, I am not going (I'm not the streaky, consecutive type- I like to go every 5 years) but the excitement does not escape my mind and body the week before Boston. It is hard to believe this has been an organized race for 122 years. Ah-mazing!<br />
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I am SO excited to see all the big names compete on a world wide stage. The competition this year is going to be FIERCE! The men will certainly not disappoint, but MY eyes will be glued to the television screen to see some of my favorite women compete: Flanagan, Linden, Huddle, Kastor, Hasay, Burla and Hall. It will be Christmas morning on Monday for me and for the first time I will be not working and having to watch the entire marathon later in the day.<br />
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On a more local, personal note I was fortunate enough to invite a few local runners to a get-together at the Greensboro Lululemon store last night. Adam Admundson spearheaded the party so that fellow runners could meet one another and get a proper send-off to Boston. I could not have been more proud to represent (as an ambassador) a company that truly VALUES the community. I will post photos on social media as they become available!<br />
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The introductions that were made and the shared stories created a sense of calm with the first time Boston runners and a sense of knowing with the seasoned runners. I am so excited to track and cheer for them. Here is a photo from the infamous bus ride from Bolyston to Hopkinton. No matter how many times you run Boston, the bus ride seems like FOREVER and you question if you can even run that far...lol...Jeriann & I were giggling, laughing and having WAY too much fun!<br />
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The weather forecast may not be ideal for them, but I doubt they will notice with all the cheers from the crowds.<br />
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Running is my favorite sport because most of the competition is with yourself. Running is a mental sport as well as a physical one. <br />
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I am thrilled to be back on the Appalachian Trail tomorrow and Saturday with Miles. This guy turned 1 a little over a week ago and I KNOW he is excited because as I began to pull out my camping gear, he went nuts smelling it as well as wagging his tail. Have a super rest of your week!<br />
<br />Health and Wellness on the runhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00970865652929893870noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3088575399197773930.post-1507787338980805282018-03-20T07:04:00.000-07:002018-03-20T07:04:26.642-07:00Race Report: New Hanover Regional Medical Center Wrightsville Beach Half Marathon<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yes I am a runner, but no, I have not been following a
plan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am pretty consistent in my
mileage each week between 20-50 miles per week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>My average mileage for the last 4 weeks (according to my Garmin Fenix
5s) was 29.3 miles. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My average mileage
walking for the last 4 weeks was 12.1 miles (walking Miles ToGo).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am getting mileage in, but it is
erratic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can’t seem to want to bring
myself to train for any races, although I am pacing quite a bit this year which
is always fun. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Last weekend was a baseline run to see where I need to
work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I ran in the Wrightsville Beach
half marathon and promised myself to run happy and strong and not push it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was good about pulling back when I felt my
heartrate start to climb.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I did not look
at my watch for pace or distance the whole race, but I did have it on my
heartrate screen so I could just run by feel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I was thrilled to be so consistent throughout the race.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here is a <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>breakdown of the mileage:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Made the conscious decision that since I was fun running it
I would not warm up at all and just try to start slow and work my way into the
race.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mile 1 was probably a little fast,
but it felt really slow: 7:40.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>7:40 on
another day would feel fast but with the excitement, adrenaline and all the
runners<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>surrounding you it felt
slow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I guess it felt slow enough that
subconsciously I picked it up. We had wind at our back during most of mile 2 so
it felt effortless at 7:17. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
During mile 3 there are many people along the side of the
road and it is always fun to read the signs, chat with people and thank all the
people cheering for you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wore a St.
Patrick’s Day outfit and received lots of extra cheering for my costume.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In fact, a couple of men that were right
behind me said they wanted to stay near me as long as possible because of all
the loud cheers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They dropped off around
mile 7 and I ran alone most of the way unless I was passing someone, or someone
passing me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mile 3 was 7:29 which felt
comfortable.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Mile 4 is a mental blur for me, so I will just leave it at
my time for that mile; 7:33.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Mile 5 is in Land Fall where my friend, Josie, has a
house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My hubby and her hubby were
supposed to cheer us on at the end of their street, but they never made
it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The pillow was just too tempting….lucky
them!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was anticipating seeing them so
it pushed me along at a 7:27 mile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had
one Honey Stinger Fruit Smoothie flavor chomp during this mile.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mile 6 was still in Land Fall and the neighborhood residents
are really great at coming out and cheering for us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They had cute signs and many had
cowbells.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Everyone needs more cowbells
in their life! 7:29.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mile 7 is where I took in nutrition with my salted caramel
Gu.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yummy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was wearing a costume, so I had no
pockets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wore a wrist band that had a
zipper compartment and I had my chomps in there in a small baggie.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Well….when I took out my Gu I did not zipper
the wristband up correctly (while running, mind you) and the rest of my chomps
all fell out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was certainly not going
to stop in the middle of the race, so I hope there are some happy squirrels and
rabbits feeling nourished.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I dismissed
any negativity here because I like a couple of more chomps before I get to mile
11-12 to finish strong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This mile was a
7:28 .6<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mile 8 was a blur probably because we were running around
the circles at Mayfair Center;<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>7:28.5.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is odd to me when you
lock and load during a race and you remember nothing, but stay very consistent.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mile 9 was a 7:28.6.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We started on the greenway and thus started the quiet part of the
course.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I felt good here and kept
pulling myself back when I felt my heartrate started to rise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was sweating so much at this point (cotton
t-shirt, I<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>am looking at you) that I was
starting to get concerned about not having any nutrition on me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I cannot tolerate Gatorade because of the
sugars so water was my friend on the course.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I am hoping maybe I can convince the race director to switch to Nuun….wouldn’t
that be awesome. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
During Mile 10 a gentleman came up on me and I picked it up
a little to chat and run with him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
then picked up the pace and I wished him well as I wanted to stay
comfortable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>7:25 was my pace this mile
and to me it felt much slower.<o:p></o:p></div>
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At Mile 11 I had decided that I was too stinking hot and I
wanted food.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Anything edible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I focused on my heartrate a bunch during this
mile because I could feel it creeping up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>7:27 was my pace during this mile but it didn’t feel this fast.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I thought I was in the low 8’s at this point.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Mile 12…this mile was the mile I felt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I felt every blessed step.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was hangry by this point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I kept pulling back my pace because I started
to get a little lightheaded everytime I tried to up the pace a little.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I knew I needed water and food.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was trying to pick up the pace to get
FINISHED. I saw the beer tent at the WVU water stop and knew THAT was not going
to work, but I don’t remember any water from 10 miles on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I either missed it or drank it and don’t
remember.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Either way, this was my
slowest mile since mile 1; 7:35.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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Ahh….Mile 13.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Heaven
help me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Loved getting to this point,
however…….insert screeching sound here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>When my watched vibrated at 13, I was nowhere near the finish line.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I picked up the pace a little and finished
this mile at 7:31.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The competitor in me
would have really worked this mile, but it was actually nice to <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>f<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>e<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>e<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>l <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>good
coming in towards the finish line.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
last .31 was an average of a 6:47 mile. <o:p></o:p></div>
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My watch and many others had this course as long.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am the queen of ‘as the crow flies’ and
know the roads to know when I should be on the left, middle or right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>According to my watch, my overall pace was a
7:28 average mile, and the results show a 7:35.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Either way, I was happy to be done and get food and drink!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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My official time was 1:39.24 and I placed first in my age
group out of 104 runners.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was a
great starting point and now I get to start working. I need to work at varying
my workouts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I need more speed workouts
in my life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Who am I kidding…I need to
START speed workouts again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love speed
workouts so I have NO idea why I stopped. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I am putting my intentions out here in print and for the
world to see.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Plan your work, work your
plan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want to see where this
goes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am excited to create a running
plan!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Meanwhile, if you are looking for a fun, yet challenging half
marathon the <span style="background: white;">Foothills Brewing to Kick off NC
Beer Month with the 2nd Annual </span></span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://u2540205.ct.sendgrid.net/wf/click?upn%3DxkOiV2TtTF-2BRbgAJAG4nw9rvJnKniI9vJr45gShVlwvwMxwCnLRGpDk9u8FOuyC-2B_M-2FhCYFVHEGXkW0-2FXaYJuAmQGqJKbFpVfRH7WxUw78D4CjDOUfHq39r-2B44Q-2Bo-2BkSUjAJwZROM5zKo1duMNjn9NGkKCdoZX1fMa87JoZTix8fw93eeXuPGb21VPe7S-2F7MMkWGlmNmMQgAAf6OE-2Bwvytam7G-2BK1Xr2g1M0KHz2RvYjki8ZF45z0kZi-2B7z14fhqITk-2BLLM-2F5NqaePLtqePJyHIC-2BwKtaKsc9zKr8lGSikoA-3D&source=gmail&ust=1521559618695000&usg=AFQjCNFP-GoR9JUWSsk1MQ11nBYZ4bYoog" href="https://u2540205.ct.sendgrid.net/wf/click?upn=xkOiV2TtTF-2BRbgAJAG4nw9rvJnKniI9vJr45gShVlwvwMxwCnLRGpDk9u8FOuyC-2B_M-2FhCYFVHEGXkW0-2FXaYJuAmQGqJKbFpVfRH7WxUw78D4CjDOUfHq39r-2B44Q-2Bo-2BkSUjAJwZROM5zKo1duMNjn9NGkKCdoZX1fMa87JoZTix8fw93eeXuPGb21VPe7S-2F7MMkWGlmNmMQgAAf6OE-2Bwvytam7G-2BK1Xr2g1M0KHz2RvYjki8ZF45z0kZi-2B7z14fhqITk-2BLLM-2F5NqaePLtqePJyHIC-2BwKtaKsc9zKr8lGSikoA-3D" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" target="_blank"><span style="background: white; color: windowtext;">HopSwap Half Marathon powered by
OrthoCarolina</span></a><span style="background: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; float: none; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"> is on Saturday, March 31<sup>st</sup>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am pacing the 1:45 half….please join me!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br />Health and Wellness on the runhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00970865652929893870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3088575399197773930.post-83324852690032188032017-12-13T19:44:00.002-08:002017-12-13T20:11:44.350-08:00Raining (or shall I say snowing) On My Parade and Onto Brighter ThingsI have a confession to make. I made a huge error, and I am the first to admit when I am wrong. I did run 101.3 miles at the Crooked Road 24 Hour Ultra Race, but I did not double check the Virginia state record book prior to the race. The last time I had checked it the record for 50-54 year old women was 80.something miles. Well......there was this little race called The Virginia Cancer 24 Hour Race and a 50 year old woman named Paula Garrigan went 107 miles. I am mortified I neglected to look at the website before I announced I had broken a state record. Should I be confessing to fake news? Absolutely. As my mother always said, "You only have your reputation, so act accordingly". I am humbly apologizing on record so I can move onward and upward.<br />
<br />
Speaking of upward, my thoughts these days have been filled with the "What's Next" question. I am wrapping up my 93 day notice in the next couple of weeks and I am still hemming and hawing when people ask what I am going to be doing. Well...my retirement is going to start out with a bang. I am helping my son, Nick Westfall, behind the scenes of his movie, 8 Slices, which he wrote and is directing down in Holden Beach for 2 weeks in January. Like his first movie, I will be doing a little bit of this, a little bit of that. It will be a wild ride that will be exhaustingly fun. He has endless amounts of energy (I wonder where he inherited this) and I enjoy seeing him follow his passion.<br />
<br />
I just started running consistently and adding a few miles of speed. I am looking forward to devoting more time and energy to my running. I may be almost 52, but I feel like I can thwart off the big slowdown that often occurs in women in their 50's (especially those who have been running as long as I have). I may be delusional, but I want to see where consistency and the devotion of time can lead me. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghJem6z2Ivz8i8JE6U2GwGRq7ug1KYMpK1bdt0w64HD-Ho1T4_p3tELl0Y_jDAnu_kt_7PuqBPhiTyxEvz4nDNJpJ_uGQAyvuYomjZgsaLR-0PaamiNKOV-2D5FBnBRKqcE5owMTS7ypfi/s1600/fullsizeoutput_1a2e.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghJem6z2Ivz8i8JE6U2GwGRq7ug1KYMpK1bdt0w64HD-Ho1T4_p3tELl0Y_jDAnu_kt_7PuqBPhiTyxEvz4nDNJpJ_uGQAyvuYomjZgsaLR-0PaamiNKOV-2D5FBnBRKqcE5owMTS7ypfi/s320/fullsizeoutput_1a2e.jpeg" width="240" /></a>I am a little stressed about the impending holidays because I am currently juggling so much on my plate. I am learning to give myself permission to be less than perfect. Christmas seems to happen each year and somehow I have always gotten it all done. I may be acting too nonchalant, but hey there is still 11 days. Miles is 8 months old now and a great road/trail companion to me. He does not care if the presents are all wrapped (because he's too busy yanking ornaments off the tree when we are not looking)<br />
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I just bought a new microphone to use in a podcast I am developing so I played around with it by creating a short 5 minute meditation. This is an easy way to refocus during this hectic holiday season. I would love your feedback (bad, constructive and good) and whether or not you would like to see more. If you cannot retrieve it below, it will be on my Facebook page: Cindy Kearns Barbour. Please find and enjoy it there.<br />
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<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1mQuTrxObayKqJY719ebq8MXL_cqmg1am/view?usp=sharing">https://drive.google.com/file/d/1mQuTrxObayKqJY719ebq8MXL_cqmg1am/view?usp=sharing</a><br />
<br />
From the bottom of my heart, I feel badly about misrepresenting the record and I wish you all a peaceful, joyous holiday season.<br />
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xoxo<br />
CindyHealth and Wellness on the runhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00970865652929893870noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3088575399197773930.post-24020995109465084092017-11-30T11:15:00.000-08:002017-11-30T11:15:21.657-08:00101.3 Miles and a New Virginia State Record...oh my! Some years races are easy, other years you wonder if/why you run at all. This year was my 6th year at the Crooked Road 24 hour ultra. I love this race. This is the most well supported race I have ever experienced in 41 years of racing. For 24 hours, the volunteers kept me hydrated, full and motivated to continue. Well...almost. I better start at the beginning. Being the most de-conditioned I have ever been before an ultra I knew there would be some dicey spots in the race.<br />
<br />
Beforehand, I had convinced myself that 80 miles was non-negotiable and 100 miles was my stretch goal. I was the most relaxed I have ever been before staying awake for 24 hours and moving forward running and walking. My dear friend, Tonia, let me stay at her house at the Virginia/North Carolina border with my puppy, Miles the night before. She graciously kept him so I could race as Dan was on a golf trip with the boys. I actually slept like a champ (very unusual the night before a big event) and I got to Rocky Mount, VA around 7:10am. Perfect amount of time to unpack, visit and get ready for an epic 24 hours.<br />
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We had a little fun at the beginning of the race in this picture here:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqU-RxLvSlh3I9C-OHzRcYkXbxRD3bJpSFBbj1fVIJzcpbNJVvRjEDn2a4kaa9Qq_S32tIR13zhYCx1jv6e90uTiS6pMTRgFrR4TtPlNASam9WHv3nko-KP98XUBO7tvNphGO0-q2kYIQ3/s1600/37663184495_0ccf13da71_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="684" data-original-width="1024" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqU-RxLvSlh3I9C-OHzRcYkXbxRD3bJpSFBbj1fVIJzcpbNJVvRjEDn2a4kaa9Qq_S32tIR13zhYCx1jv6e90uTiS6pMTRgFrR4TtPlNASam9WHv3nko-KP98XUBO7tvNphGO0-q2kYIQ3/s320/37663184495_0ccf13da71_b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The weather was perfect for this type of event and the warmest this race has ever been to my recollection. The plan was to run with Dena (who bypassed moving a couple of weeks later so she could be part of the race) till she left which was somewhere near 50 miles and darkness. I was laser focused for my 80 miles so I was not as sad as I usually am when she <strike>deserts</strike> leaves me. I was in good spirits and had fun chatting and running with Stephanie (a first time ultra runner who placed THIRD overall for females) till about 67 miles or so. She was going to change clothes and get some food so I opted to just keep going because again I was <strike>stubborn</strike> laser focused for my goal.<br />
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Here is a view of part of the course. I had our Jeep right along the course for all my supplies ( I knew it was going to rain in the middle of the night) and in case I wanted to lie down and nap for a little bit during the night. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE0Q18BAnEpuX7k3Zf0Pep0sIxJIBoqVHTiTNc61Ov0u4myTvND4B4K7VpBJvRRKvOmAhcOAsmqFTea_1twdW8AFwHllYg1u0BgX4b3o9UkRyXSSTmtRi-VpsZYGYmfivxUAMJu6306BUY/s1600/24657972398_f0314f9428_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="681" data-original-width="1024" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE0Q18BAnEpuX7k3Zf0Pep0sIxJIBoqVHTiTNc61Ov0u4myTvND4B4K7VpBJvRRKvOmAhcOAsmqFTea_1twdW8AFwHllYg1u0BgX4b3o9UkRyXSSTmtRi-VpsZYGYmfivxUAMJu6306BUY/s320/24657972398_f0314f9428_b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I allow myself to turn on my IPod and phone after 50 miles during an ultra, but I did not turn it on till mile 88. Why? I have NO idea. Although it did start raining in the middle of the night TWICE. I had a poncho that fell into pieces a few minutes after putting it on and luckily Ricky (the race director) gave me a trash bag that I wore till it stopped raining. It was as long as I am so I was constantly pulling it up off the ground to prevent myself from tripping. </div>
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At some point in the middle of the night I lost the stomach for food. I could not find anything I wanted so I stuck with chicken broth and it seemed to help me tremendously. I usually counsel people that if you get behind in your food (which apparently I did) and you stop taking in food you are toast. Well...I felt like toast, but somehow managed to KEEP GOING. In retrospect I should have figured out SOMETHING to eat. During the day I ate peanut butter and jelly sandwiches like they were my job. I actually stayed away from the really bad sugar, but did allow myself ginger ale and an occasional coke during the night. These drinks are in 2 oz. doses, so I did not consume much sugar at all. I did have the McDonalds hamburgers, but I refrained from the pizza this year. But hey, there is a first time for everything. Me turning down pizza?</div>
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When daybreak came I had less than 5 miles to go to hit my goal. I became very emotional at around 7am for some reason. I couldn't point at any particular thing except maybe the lack of food. I was almost inconsolable the last 2.3 miles. I was so emotional, in fact, that Dena called Johnny and Melanie and they ran around the course trying to find me and helped me emotionally get over myself and get an extra lap to win this race for females. </div>
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Was I happy to break the Virginia State Record again? YOU BET. Was I happy to be over 50 and winning a race? YOU BET. Will I do it again? Hhhmmm...it's still too early to think about it for 2018. </div>
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Here is the official list of finishers and their total mileage. There were 10 people over 100 miles with 2 of the finishers being females. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmjrthIqEybP7-Nje3kZLP5IelYErVWJMHnWTeD9EC9LBxaocTv90zcgg7Dwftjfu4DBaard9rZSwjoCiljJogVIiimxcc04UE4SZENsNWi6HlNCDMQLhPbBkK7S0aEGAGOgNVUFJnSosA/s1600/Official+results+crooked+road+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="540" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmjrthIqEybP7-Nje3kZLP5IelYErVWJMHnWTeD9EC9LBxaocTv90zcgg7Dwftjfu4DBaard9rZSwjoCiljJogVIiimxcc04UE4SZENsNWi6HlNCDMQLhPbBkK7S0aEGAGOgNVUFJnSosA/s640/Official+results+crooked+road+2017.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
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Here is Mark and myself accepting our overall Male and Female award complete with the cutest little Banjo I have ever seen. I am currently coveting it on my kitchen counter. I have never been so tired, yet so happy. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-A_93xat4WnGg-hzymUxBqDCLehVI-PIkN4vpyme5_APrXn9UVJ4DPm8HX_SyhEG3_7sQrTEEUq7YGqO416p7cgSbd3jlB7MtVFvJFf273VR6FL16F1J1M29zwQhoGA6E6Ef5nXhnHLX_/s1600/37665131935_bbd3187f4d_k.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-A_93xat4WnGg-hzymUxBqDCLehVI-PIkN4vpyme5_APrXn9UVJ4DPm8HX_SyhEG3_7sQrTEEUq7YGqO416p7cgSbd3jlB7MtVFvJFf273VR6FL16F1J1M29zwQhoGA6E6Ef5nXhnHLX_/s320/37665131935_bbd3187f4d_k.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here are the Greensboro friends that were there at the end to cheer, hug, cry and celebrate with after the race. Johnny, Amy, Stephanie, and Melanie.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgggCh6ORS4lDrQccP5e9beX3a4z0dhZPGhNdVUByiGyaYIzawH4efuj7Knyq4CSirX8UrG9gi9cGGVmavQAwBY-8m1LuDmMHwm4XmG-fW8mT5bv_sRGyuylN5NokXrp1ecK-wrTi3GwzUU/s1600/26777018489_1b84387e40_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="213" data-original-width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgggCh6ORS4lDrQccP5e9beX3a4z0dhZPGhNdVUByiGyaYIzawH4efuj7Knyq4CSirX8UrG9gi9cGGVmavQAwBY-8m1LuDmMHwm4XmG-fW8mT5bv_sRGyuylN5NokXrp1ecK-wrTi3GwzUU/s1600/26777018489_1b84387e40_n.jpg" /></a></div>
I do not know what is next for me, but I look forward to the next adventure! <br />
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<br />Health and Wellness on the runhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00970865652929893870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3088575399197773930.post-43317622291698239022017-11-16T11:49:00.000-08:002017-11-16T11:49:19.924-08:00The Tsunami before the Calm 24 hours of Relentless Forward MotionRace week. It brings a tsunami of emotions. What am I thinking....I cannot run for 24 hours. True. There is quite a bit of walking involved WITH the running (if all goes well). Last year was not my year. There were horrible winds that blew (my friend) Dena and I all over the course and we decided to 'pack it in' 62 miles into the race. We left some unfinished business out there on the course. This year I am committed to seeking my second 100+mile completion within 24 hours. I am FULLY committed to 80 miles and I am MOSTLY committed to 100. I can do this. I've done this before.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinALwfIIQS2Xt9nHRkI0_Wn7EyoCEG5QTGmD5bjP6Haw8_01NAZOG0IGM8PgvqM9phXufSU1ql5JLCNtdcV9r17LMvvXZi3ktUKv6kKKwmBl7GovutJFrR4hd7MPOtSl13qKAoELCJVr-k/s1600/Crooked+Road+2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1504" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinALwfIIQS2Xt9nHRkI0_Wn7EyoCEG5QTGmD5bjP6Haw8_01NAZOG0IGM8PgvqM9phXufSU1ql5JLCNtdcV9r17LMvvXZi3ktUKv6kKKwmBl7GovutJFrR4hd7MPOtSl13qKAoELCJVr-k/s320/Crooked+Road+2016.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
The week of a race I let doubt and anxiety creep into my psyche but I am old and hopefully wise enough to continue to ignore the fear of the unknown. Any given day anyone can do anything they put their mind to. I continually tell myself, "What the mind will believe, the body can achieve". <br />
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I have started my packing for the weekend. I tend to over pack because I would rather have too much stuff than not enough. With the weather being iffy in the afternoon, you do not want to mess with mother nature and wearing dry clothes is a MUST. Each year is a different story of what I need and must have.<br />
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I have run in snow at Crooked Road, but never rain. There is a chance of rain this year and I am reminded of a Lululemon Product Photo Shoot where I was running in 40 degree rainy weather and laughing about it. It shouldn't be this cold but at least I have a frame of reference on laughing in the rain. Who knows, maybe I will start singing.<br />
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Whatever Saturday will bring, I will bring what I have and with the utmost energy and enthusiasm. Heck- if I can pull off a 3:34:17 at the NYC Marathon with a hurt toe (I kicked a subway grate by accident after sliding on a paper cup in the road) then I can run/walk a 100 miles. Right?! <br />
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This picture epitomizes that I will go from girly grace to grit in a nanosecond. Don't count this princess out. I have plenty left to prove in the running world.<br />
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When I finally get to the starting line of the Crooked Road 24 hour ultra I will find my calm rhythm and crank out the mileage; one mile at a time. <br />
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<br />Health and Wellness on the runhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00970865652929893870noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3088575399197773930.post-26278977507807303532017-11-08T05:18:00.003-08:002017-11-08T05:18:45.444-08:00Running DOES Connect Us! When a Partner Moves AwayRunning connects us. You've seen the tag line, phrase, etc. all over Facebook. What does that mean? Yes you feel a chain-link sense of community of like minded people but what happens when a link moves away? <div>
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I have had the luxury of great running partners that have circled in and out of my life over my 4 decades of racing. I try and keep in touch as much as feasibly possible but I know (and hope they know) what an indelible mark they have inked in my soul.</div>
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Everyone has that one friend that is up for ANYTHING. Dena is one of those friends that said, "Let's do a 24 hour race" and BOOM we did it for the next 7 years in a row. Several years we went step for step for at least the first 50 miles and some years we were just there breathing the same air. Dena is one of those women who I strive to imitate; assertive, confident and driven. </div>
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Dena has been dabbling in the triathlon world so our weekend long run has been disrupted but I know if I truly needed her she would be there in a heartbeat. Dena is moving to Atlanta (whelp) and I am SUPER excited for her, and SUPER sad for me. Yes we will still stay in touch (I am currently teaching her that cell phones are actually a phone and not a texting machine) but running together will be few and far between. </div>
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When she first told me she got the job I was ecstatic and then she told me she might be moving the weekend of our infamous 24 hour Crooked Road (best 24 hour race out there. Period. You cannot convince me otherwise. Ever) ultra I was crestfallen. Yes I just typed that word: crestfallen. This was OUR race. This was OUR time to completely catch up in life. Who am I going to talk to for 24 hours? Okay: I talk to EVERYONE all day and night in that race so maybe that part will not change. </div>
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If you see me during the race or on Facebook on November 18-November 19th, send me a little love. I will need it.</div>
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One more thing you might not know about Dena and me, we have run together every Christmas morning since 2012 (or is it 2013). We wake up early and my family does not. We run in the crisp early morning air with virtually no one outside. We run the number of miles in the upcoming year. This year would be have 18 miles for 2018. I will probably return to me running solo to the cemetery a couple of miles away from our home wishing all the headstones a very Merry Christmas. I do this every Thanksgiving also because my Mom has been buried in Maryland since 1992 and I have not visited her since then because I live so far away. Hopefully she knows I am thinking of her.</div>
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Footnote: This is what happens when I write- I sit on it too long and forget to post.Thank you, Sheri, for the reminders! </div>
Health and Wellness on the runhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00970865652929893870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3088575399197773930.post-66842244540421949612017-10-01T10:50:00.003-07:002017-10-01T10:56:05.620-07:00New Beginnings in LifeHave you ever taken a vacation, returned, and reassessed your life only to decide that major changes do not seem scary? I took a trip to Switzerland which was not only an epic adventure, but a template for thinking globally instead of locally. I am taking a brave, new step towards the twilight of my career and redesigning my work life. I want to continue my passion for wellness but on a different pathway.<br />
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Is it scary? Yes. <br />
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Will it work? Who knows, but I know I need to try. <br />
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I have felt scattered this past year. Holding a full-time job, taking care of my Dad, rearing a puppy, and trying to keep my running life together has been challenging. I love being a part of the wellness world, but I feel that I have exhausted my current skills set since beginning my career 30+ years ago.<br />
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I have had a restlessness that wakes me up at night and consumes my thoughts during the day. This is how I know I need to try and step outside the box. I need to push my edges and create more peace and harmony in my life.<br />
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I am fortunate to have a wonderful husband who although he doesn't try to understand me, he gets me. He sees the highs and lows and supports, encourages and celebrates with me every step of the way. There is something rumbling in my soul and I want to explore it. He is my rock, sounding board and my safe haven. Life is infinitely more wonderful having him as my husband.<br />
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Do I have a concrete plan yet? Heck no. That will be a part of the fun these next number of months as I am leaving my current full-time job at Starmount Country Club December 31st (unless they hire someone before then).<br />
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I have had many different avenues to encourage people to live healthier lives: tv, radio, newspaper column, etc. and maybe I will do something along those lines; or not. Who knows at this point, but I am truly excited! <br />
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I can't wait for my future to unfold and I hope to chronicle it here in the blog. Here is where I am committed to writing more and exploring this incredible earth we inhabit for such a short period of time.<br />
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Cheers to new beginnings!<br />
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Health and Wellness on the runhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00970865652929893870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3088575399197773930.post-29608583224919195032017-02-04T13:10:00.000-08:002017-02-04T13:10:05.650-08:00New Year, New Everything! I am embarrassed I have fallen short on the blogging front. This is a new year and a new everything. Last year this time, I was helping my Dad up in NYC in ICU. Fast forward to now, he is living 6 miles from me in NC and adapting to NC life. <div>
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In case you followed me last year, I did indeed hit my goal of 2016 in 2016. I was logging some serious mileage in the month of December, but I did it! I ended up with 2023 miles. I did not, however, sign up for 2017 in 2017 because I did not like the stress this challenge caused me. I think on a number of days I would have opted to rest my body (and probably should have) but I got my running shoes on and ran anyway. I logged many more miles walking, rowing, elliptical training and cycling but I chose to only consider running miles in the challenge. </div>
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One of the most magical moments of last year was being asked to be a Lululemon Running Ambassador. Some of the Lululemon Crew came to a half marathon I was pacing in October and were there at the finish line with really cute signs. I was moved to tears of joy. I have been a Lululemon fanatic since I learned about them 6 or 7 years ago in NYC. I was the first patron on opening day at their showroom location here in Greensboro, NC and have been an avid fan of just about everything they sell. They are really making great strides in their running gear and I hope to help them in any way I can with my 40+ years of running. Big, hairy audacious things are in the works and I cannot wait to share them here on the blog. Suffice it to say, I still pinch myself often to make sure I am not dreaming. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Lululemon now has a complete store at Friendly Center and I have been fortunate to host some runs from the store with more exciting plans in the future! Stay tuned! Now back to running...<br />
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I am excited to be returning to Boston this April for the 2017 Boston Marathon. My running friend, Jeriann, moved to Dallas so we thought this was a great way to see and spend some time together. I am so excited to share a hotel room with her and plan on documenting our time in Boston down to the nitty gritty; all things running, that is! I visited Jeriann in December and ran the half marathon there and ran into a few running <strike>friends</strike> celebrities: Deena, Meb, Ryan, Desiree, oh my! Can't wait for the fun to continue in Boston! I did manage to earn 2nd place in my age group and just last week received my award. Cameron, my faithful rescue dog LOVES to be in pictures!<br />
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I have been diligently training for Boston and can't wait to share what has been working and what hasn't in some future posts. For now, here are some of my favorite pictures from last year (I am definitely working on my flexibility in 2017..eek!):<br />
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Health and Wellness on the runhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00970865652929893870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3088575399197773930.post-54177807764080522272016-07-05T13:23:00.002-07:002016-07-05T13:23:32.057-07:00To say I am surprised that the year is half over is an understatement. Many who know me know my Dad has had some health issues and I have been blessed to be able to help him recover and move down to North Carolina. I could spend paragraphs of the joy and hardwork, but this is a wellness blog so I will stop digressing.<br />
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Running. I have been running and have actually done a few races. I did the Greensboro City Senior Games (I still choke on that word, senior) and managed to pull out 3 first places and 1 second place. I am honored to represent Greensboro at the State Games in September. I will have only 4 days to recover from my 24 hour ultra before my first event in the North Carolina Senior Games. This should be interesting. I am hoping to hit 100 miles in September. Let's hope my legs feel the same way. I also had a girls get away weekend in May for the Running of the Vines 10k in Dobson, NC. I was lucky enough to win first overall female and reconnect with one of my Winston-Salem running friends, Allison. This photo was taken at some point after the race and it embodies what running does for me: friendships and connections. This photo makes me smile every time I see it.<br />
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If you follow this blog you know my quest is to run the year with at least 2016 miles in 2016. I signed up with a virtual challenge called Run the Edge 2016 Challenge. For more information, here is the link: <a href="http://www.runtheyear2016.com/">www.runtheyear2016.com</a><br />
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I slipped a little behind during my father's illness, but I am catching up! In fact, I achieved this on July 4th:<br />
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I have 2 ultra races (Hinson Lake 24 hour & Crooked Road 24 Hour) so I feel confident I will achieve my goal of finishing the 2016 miles in 2016.</div>
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I also began one of my bucket list items this past weekend. It will probably take me 10-12 years, but I want to hike the entire Appalachian Trail from Georgia to Maine.....all 2189.1 miles of it. As of Sunday, I have 2180.5 to go. Dan indulged me and hiked 12.7 miles with me. The section of the AT trail I hiked was only 8.6 miles, but you have to start somewhere! We did not encounter half of the number of hikers I anticipated for a holiday weekend and was blown away by the vistas. We started at the Grayson Highlands Park in SW Virginia. Of course I wore my Lululemon gear to stay cool.</div>
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My camera has a timer which has been great on hikes where we encounter no one for hours!</div>
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This is the Wise Shelter. I still cannot imagine me camping in one of these, but maybe. Just maybe. I would need a good friend to drag along for THIS adventure.</div>
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Speaking of adventures....look what we ran into on the AT Trail! Yup. This is a Longhorn. In the middle of the AT trail. I was petrified it was going to charge us! When it finally meandered off the path, I started running and told Dan that I just had to be faster than him (LOL). I am still not sure he saw the humor in it.</div>
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One of the delightful run-ins on the trail was with the horses! We saw at least 2 dozen horses in a number of areas on our hike. Some of them were tame enough to let me pet them. This was fun!</div>
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I leave you with my thought for the day by Karim Seddiks:</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">DOUBT KILLS MORE DREAMS THAN FAILURE</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Go dream......and run!!!</span></div>
Health and Wellness on the runhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00970865652929893870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3088575399197773930.post-77201266012432650912016-01-13T12:24:00.001-08:002016-01-13T12:28:09.584-08:002016 Inaugural Impi Team of Influencers<br />
I personally have terrific news. I had long work day on Monday and thought I was absolutely drained for the day, but I opened up an email and proceeded to stand and do a little happy dance! There is nothing more satisfying than promoting a product I truly believe in. Getting rewarded for my passion is merely the icing on the cake. I TRULY believe in my Balega Hidden Comfort Socks. I am proud to announce I am part of the 2016 Inaugural Impi Team of Influencers. I am stoked to speak, promote and have contests to share my love of this running sock. What does "Impi" mean? Well- straight from Balega International Press Release:<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: RobotoDraft, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; line-height: 32px;">Impi is a Zulu word roughly translating to mean “warrior”. The 2016 inaugural team will be made up of approximately 100 men and women athletes from across the United States that will act as an army of Balega warriors. These run enthusiasts will help spread the Balega love across their social media channels, at races and in their day-to-day life.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEJUWoHsEmsYSN5UHoZ5X5eAjZhM37aAfOzbdlQQBo0nfvZyjPObHvMlmsHh-1y-OPIZuQ95sMXKQ98LY7fDSLQ5WQb77n7UlZsDVpHtrpTQqCBRPkzneBbpJXkFGiMSEjfbHlTb_Pgj4N/s1600/Balega+Photo+Board.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEJUWoHsEmsYSN5UHoZ5X5eAjZhM37aAfOzbdlQQBo0nfvZyjPObHvMlmsHh-1y-OPIZuQ95sMXKQ98LY7fDSLQ5WQb77n7UlZsDVpHtrpTQqCBRPkzneBbpJXkFGiMSEjfbHlTb_Pgj4N/s1600/Balega+Photo+Board.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: RobotoDraft, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; line-height: 32px;"><span id="goog_603062331"></span><span id="goog_603062332"></span><br /></span>I plan on being a champion warrior for Balega International. I am excited to complete my 2016 miles in 2016 in my Balegas. What I think I love most about my Balegas is that mine have never slipped down into my shoe. They have a slightly deeper heel which makes my narrow heels happy that the fabric is not being stretched while on my foot. <br />
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Look for some exciting contests/giveaways coming up through my social media:<br />
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Instagram: @cindyabarbour<br />
Twitter: @cindybarbour1<br />
Facebook: Cindy Kearns Barbour<br />
Pinterest: cindybarbour.com<br />
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Find me...let's keep in touch!<br />
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Here is where I am in my 2016in2016 journey:<br />
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I look forward to sharing my running journey with you in posts to follow!<br />
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<br />Health and Wellness on the runhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00970865652929893870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3088575399197773930.post-20839818238522177022016-01-08T15:31:00.000-08:002016-01-08T15:31:24.801-08:002016: Oh Boy What a Year Ahead!It seems crazy we have finished the first week of the new year. Resolutions, resolutions, resolutions. Did you make any? Without further ado, I did:<br />
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I agreed to complete 2016 miles in 2016. I ran over 2,000 miles in 2014, but I actually did not even keep track in 2015 which may have led to <strike>laziness</strike> less miles this past year. I did not race in an ultra marathon last year and I only competed in 1 marathon; TCS NYC Marathon. I paced and raced a few half marathons. After my whirlwind year in 2014 my 49 year old body needed some time recover. I feel energized and ready to tackle this year's goal. <br />
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I joined an online group to help keep me accountable. As I usually tell people, I spend much of my time holding others accountable, so I frequently neglect myself. Not this year. This is my golden year. 50. I am still swirling that number/word around in my mouth. Haven't decided how I feel about it yet. But (if you know me) I'm going to make it EPIC!<br />
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Back to the online group. I love seeing inspirational photos, quotes and funny stories from this group. They live all over the world and it is nice to see snow, beach and all weather in between. I also see this as a cautionary tale; 1 person's ultra is another person's 5k. Translation: Remember the tortoise and the hare story? Not every day should be a run day for everybody. Rest and recovery is key to longevity in this sport. I should know. I've been running for 40+ years now and I am rarely sidelined with an injury. The few injuries I have experienced in my life were from tennis and not running.<br />
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Creating goals are great. Goals shared with like minded people are even better; till they are not. Be careful. I am hopeful that everyone is listening to their body! Okay. I will stop preaching. I will say this, however, this group got me out the door the other day when it was 24 degrees at 5:15am for a speedy (because I was cold!) 5 mile run. All the posts from the midwest were reminding me I can be tough and handle a little cold weather running! <br />
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Last weekend I kicked off the running year with 50k with some running friends. We were the "Blister Sisters". We were an all female masters team and finished in 3:49:xx. It was cold, but fun. Salem Lake has always been one of my favorite places to run so it was especially great to run it with a great group of ladies. This photo is missing my running friend, Dena. She got to sleep in, arrive, kick butt and leave with our hardware for winning our division. I am sandwiched in between my friends, Jen & Jeriann. They may look adorable, but they are speedy ladies!<br />
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I am signed up to race the Wrightsville Beach half marathon in March. I will pace the 1:45:00 group in the City of Arts Half Marathon in Winston-Salem on April 2nd with my friend, Jeriann. We have way too much fun pacing together. I am pacing the Raleigh Rock and Roll half marathon on Sunday, April 17th. The only other (little, haha) event I am signed up for so far is the Hinson Lake 24 hour Ultra. I ran there 2 years ago and completed 92.7 miles in a little under 23 hours. I look forward to attempting a 100+ this year. Here is Dena and me at the start of the Hinson Lake 24 hour ultra 2 years ago. We had a blast. I look forward to making memories in 2016.<br />
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I always love hearing what goals/resolutions others make for the new year.....I want to make a vision board with your responses....please take a moment and comment!<br />
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Happy Running!Health and Wellness on the runhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00970865652929893870noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3088575399197773930.post-71271840498308314442015-11-04T12:52:00.001-08:002015-11-04T14:41:18.789-08:00TCS New York MarathonThere is so much to tell about this race. I feel like I should break it apart into 2 sections:<br />
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What was GREAT about the day<br />
What was <strike>BAD</strike> LESS THAN IDEAL about the day<br />
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There was so much I did right, and so much I wish I could change, but that is the inner dialogue <strike>all </strike>most runners experience with every race.<br />
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New York was unlike any other race I have ever done: 50,000+ runners converging onto a bridge to run through the streets of the 5 boroughs. These were city streets. I was awestruck by the sights and sounds. I loved the cheering of the spectators, runners and volunteers. I experienced the quietness of the bridges, and then the surge of loudness of the bands, DJ's and noisemakers (insert: need more cowbell!). I also was impressed by the efficiency and thorough planning it must have taken to pull this event together.<br />
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The expo felt like a kid walking into Disney World for the first time. It is heavenly to see what is out there in our sport. Decades ago when I started running there were not all the gadgets, cute outfits and paraphernalia there is today. I am glad it is now a fashionable sport!<br />
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I am one of the lucky ones that got to stay 2 blocks from the South Ferry at my parents' condo on Wall Street. I had an easy walk to the ferry that took us to the bus which took us to the entrance of all the color coded athlete's villages at 6:00am. It is hard to wait for a race with 50,000+ people walking/milling about, but they sure make it easy with food, 1700 port-a-potties, and a plethora of runners from many countries. I was settled into my assigned village with over 3 hours to go. For those of you who know me, I chatted with people, lots of people.<br />
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My starting corral was on top of the bridge. They started funneling us towards the starting line with about a half hour to go before the start. Each corral had several Goodwill donation bins that we threw our extra clothing into before the start. The temperatures were warm for a November day in New York. Well...they were too warm for me!<br />
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My goal for NYC was to run happy and Boston Qualify. I wanted to run in the 3:20-3:40 range (which is a rather large time range) so I hid my Garmin from myself. I wanted to run by feel and feel alone. It was a pretty crowded start so I settled into a pack. We climbed the first mile up the bridge and I looked around smiling (didn't look down because the thought of 50,000+ runners on 1 bridge was scary to me). My Garmin was set to divulge only mile splits, no paces. The first mile was a 7:48 which was perfectly in the wheelhouse. I actually felt like I was not moving at all. The second mile was down. Down is an understatement. When we reached the 2 mile mark I saw a 6:48 on my Garmin. Oppss- didn't mean to do that, but I was in a pack and wasn't working very hard. Besides, it was almost a completely downhill mile.<br />
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Mile after mile was comfortable and fun to see all the screaming/cheering spectators. I was in a great groove because I returned to 7:30 pace miles just like I practiced at the Mini-Myrtle Beach (half) marathon 2 weeks earlier. Actually, when I cruised across the halfway point I was pleasantly surprised I was within 30 seconds of how I finished the Myrtle Mini run. All was going great....until mile 14 (cue the screeching brakes). Cups. Lots of cups. Ridiculous amount of cups I was dodging, jumping and sliding across. Did I mention cups? Well, there were also sponges, banana peels and assorted carbohydrate/electrolyte replacement gels. It seemed there were water tables every mile. I slightly jumped over then landed on a cup. I then slid with that cup until I smacked my right foot into a subway/sewer grate. I practically fell over and probably would have if a volunteer hadn't caught me. Then everything went bad. Very bad. My second toe was throbbing. I kept running and grimacing and then watching me lose quite a few people I was running alongside. I wished them good luck and proceeded to question my ability to run further, but I was determined to Boston Qualify so I pressed on. <br />
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I altered my running gait to accommodate my toes that did not want to touch the ground again. For those of you who don't run, this can be a very bad thing. My body is used to running a certain way. I have been running that way for 40 years. I do NOT recommend doing what I proceeded to do. I then did what I tell myself never to do in a race. I walked. I think I walked a certain portion of every mile and then I would start running again because I felt guilty for walking. Why did I feel guilty for walking? I have no unearthly idea. I remember doing a 3:13 at a marathon at Myrtle Beach and getting beat by a woman who was doing the walk/run racing method. It was hard playing the yo-yo game with her, but she smoked me to a 3:11. I think I am stubborn (I am sure Dan is smacking his head in an 'aha') and wanted to BQ so badly that I didn't care what I did. I needed to get to the <strike>church</strike> finish line on time.<br />
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I saw Dan and Amber at mile 16. I was so in shock that I actually heard/saw them I look a little surprised in this photo, don't I? You can see my black Fellow Flower about to fall out on the side of my head. Amber is my son's girlfriend who is doing an internship in NYC and staying with my parents. Having Amber there was like having a piece of my kids with me on my journey.<br />
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I could not tell you what mile 17-23 looked like, sounded like or even felt like. I truly do not remember anything but focusing on putting one foot in front of the other. I took water/gatorade at every opportunity and had plenty of Honey Stinger chomps, so I know I hydrated and fueled during those miles. I started some cramping in my outer calf muscles due to the altered running gait and was trying my best not to touch my right foot to the ground each step. That is hard to do...just sayin'. I saw Dan and Amber again somewhere in between 23-25 and I knew I was going to finish in time to BQ. I remember whining to them that I was cramping and something was wrong with my right foot/leg. I pressed on and could not even enjoy the last mile which I am sure would have normally had me smiling ear to ear. I walked a little in that last mile and lamented on how I have NEVER done that before!<br />
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I finished the race and immediately squealed for the medic personnel saying there is something wrong with my calves and my right toe. They were great. They walked me to the medical tent which was right past where I took a finisher photo on the way. I thought I was grinning ear to ear but you can clearly tell I am grimacing. Oh well....(insert smile) I Boston Qualified!<br />
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Within 3 minutes of finishing, they took my blood pressure and it had dropped to 76/46 with a pulse of 56. I am going to watch my BP in the next couple of months to make sure there is not something wrong. They gave me ice for my calves and salty chicken broth for my tummy. They kept asking if I was dizzy and I actually felt great sans the calves and right toe! They let me leave once my blood pressure rose to 80/50 and I <strike>walked</strike> hobbled to get my post race poncho. The arduous journey was worth it. What an awesome plus! After collecting my poncho and walking 8 blocks I found these 2 lovelies. I am so lucky to have a supportive husband and family to do this crazy little thing called running. Running inspires me. Running challenges me. Running keeps me grounded.<br />
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I have so much to be thankful for and so much work to do to stay running healthy. I am taking time to heal my foot and monitor this BP thing. I did so much right in this marathon, and I did so much wrong. That is why I love running. Be grateful for days where you feel invincible and learn the lessons you need to learn on days things don't go as planned. Runners can be a little bogged down by numbers, past times, and paces. I am choosing to stay in the moment and enjoy every step!<br />
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In case you were wondering, I finished in 3:34:17. I was the 808th female and 4858 overall. I am a NYC New York Marathon FINISHER and I am proud! <br />
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<br />Health and Wellness on the runhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00970865652929893870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3088575399197773930.post-39354995943028775642015-10-26T12:41:00.000-07:002015-10-26T12:45:42.360-07:00Taper Crazies: The Road to the TCS NYC MarathonThe taper crazies have hit. For those of you who do not run, this is the 2 weeks where you drastically cut your weekly mileage to prepare your muscles to run a marathon (26.2 miles; don't underestimate that .2). This is where you review your training cycle and hope you 'did enough'. <br />
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The questions swirling around in your head can be staggering.<br />
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Did I run enough long runs?<br />
Did I run enough hills?<br />
Did I run enough tempo runs?<br />
Did I? Did I? Did I?<br />
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Even though I have run over 15 marathons, 6 ultra marathons (anything over 26.2 is considered an ultra) and many, many half marathons I still respect the distance. Yes I know I can run 26.2 miles.<br />
Am I trying to race this marathon? No. I just want to run happy and enjoy it. My focus is going to be shorter distances after this marathon so I truly just want to Boston Qualify (under 4 hours). I ran a 1:37 half marathon the weekend before last and felt amazing. Boom. I would be just fine keeping that train moving a little slower but nonetheless chugging along at a comfortable pace (for me). There is nothing better than feeling the miles click off on your Garmin without you realizing you are exerting effort. Unfortunately, most runners know it is solely about THAT (race) day. Race day can be anything, a mixed bag of sorts.<br />
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Each time I lace up my shoes to run a training run I always wonder if this is going to be a good day, tolerable day or a horrible running day. Some training runs you question what the heck you are doing with running shoes on. Some training runs you feel on top of the world. This is where the taper crazies begin.<br />
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The time I would have used for running is now empty. My energy levels swing higher and lower than a kid on a swing trying to touch the sky. I find myself not sleeping very well either. I have been waking up super early almost every day since my taper began.<br />
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The taper crazies have hit me so hard, I painted our youngest daughter's bedroom over the weekend. She is in her third year of teaching, so to say I dragged my feet is an understatement. One of my steady running partners, Jeriann, helped me gather all my painting necessities because she was in taper mode till yesterday. She rocked the Marine Corps marathon in DC with a 12 minute PR (3:25). I was singing and dancing following her on my phone all morning. I should note I started texting her at 4:25am and she answered! I think my husband was ready to have me committed.<br />
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Jeriann meeting me for a quick goodbye lunch before leaving for DC</div>
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My New York experience starts on Thursday afternoon. I am lucky my Dad lives on Wall Street in Manhattan so I am walking distance to the South Ferry. I will take the ferry to the starting line on Sunday at 6:00am. </div>
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I found out that I will be starting at 9:50am on TOP of the bridge (insert yikes) in Wave 1, Corral D so I SHOULD have plenty of time to find where my corral is located. I will also be taking a whole meal with me (in clear plastic bags) because I will be HUNGRY after just sitting/standing there for hours. One of my biggest racing idiosyncratic behaviors is that I need to see the starting line the day before or I don't sleep well because I will dream about the gun going off and I am scrambling trying to find the starting line. Yes, that IS a taper crazy I have hung onto since high school. I will have to deal with this this year because I will not be looking at the starting line the day before. I will be visiting with family.</div>
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At Boston I had my friend, Jen Farrell with me. Jen is one of my favorite running partners who put up with my crazy work hours for years. She was great about meeting me anywhere at anytime. I still miss her immensely! I will feel very alone without her with me at New York.</div>
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Notice the taper crazies unfolding in the above paragraphs? I am bouncing all over the place. I feel like a hamster who had their wheel taken away from them. I just want to run.....right now!</div>
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This morning I had a leisurely 6 mile run with some running buddies I do not get to run with very often. We had a chatty, silly run that felt amazing in our cooler temperatures here in North Carolina. </div>
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Beth and Amy allowed me to process my taper crazies while we chatted and ran farther than we originally scheduled. This is why I love our Greensboro running community....EVERYONE IS AWESOME!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amy and Beth were so much fun to run alongside!<br />
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I am sure I will have more to say about New York, Much more. I am trying to contain my excitement about seeing my Dad & Stepmom, and my sister and her family. I look forward to running all 5 boroughs by myself (alongside 50,000+other runners). I think ONE of them will help me find the starting line before the gun goes off.</div>
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I leave you with a quote from William Shakespeare, "Things won are done, joy's soul is in the doing". I am fortunate to have supportive family and friends that give me daily encouragement. Speaking of encouragement....here is a link to the trailer of my son's (Nick Westfall) first full length feature film he wrote and directed, "Finding Home". I couldn't be more proud. It will premiere in Wilmington, NC on Saturday, November 21st on National Adoption Day. Enjoy!</div>
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<br />Health and Wellness on the runhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00970865652929893870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3088575399197773930.post-85533808314165208972015-10-19T12:33:00.001-07:002015-10-19T12:33:19.120-07:00Preparation for the TCS New York Marathon by way of the Myrtle Beach Mini MarathonHow do you make sure you have some good solid training runs while preparing for a marathon? Pick a couple of half marathons and sign-up. Yes. Just sign up. Put the ego aside, slap on a cute, fun outfit , lace up your shoes and run for the sheer fun of running with friends.<br />
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I happen to have a great community of runners here in Greensboro, NC. I tend to float from group to group so I can experience a nice, varied mix of people. This includes running with everyone from beginners to seasoned veterans (notice I didn't use the word 'old'. I'm taking issue with that word lately). I am what you call a <strike>undisciplined</strike> free spirited runner. I mainly run other people's plans. Am I a certified running coach? Yes. Do I care exactly what my training plan should be when preparing for a marathon? No. I have been running my whole life. I like to think I have a base that has a base. I do, however, make sure I build distances, then take an off week where I decrease mileage considerably. There is where that 'old' word comes back into play: In order for ME to stay healthy, I must listen to my body and give it proper rest when I need it. <br />
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2 weeks ago I paced the Cannonball Half Marathon in Greensboro. My friend, Jeriann and I paced the 1:45 group and had a blast talking, teaching, singing and coaching our group to the finish line in under 1:45. The skies were gloomy and humid, but it never rained. We remained upbeat and cheered everyone around us. THIS is what the love of running does.<br />
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Jeriann is getting ready to run in the Marine Corps Marathon in D.C. So proud of her and her running accomplishments as a new runner!</div>
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Yesterday was the Myrtle Beach Mini-Marathon (I love that they say 'mini' instead of 'half' marathon). I wanted to run happy, consistent and stay within 1:35-1:45 range. I ran each mile within 5 seconds of one another and allowed myself to go a little faster the last mile. I stayed in my sweet spot so that I didn't feel taxed, yet I knew I was working. I worked myself comfortably to a 1:37:44 finish, which translated to a 7:27 average mile.<br />
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I was so happy to run into these running friends after the race!<br />
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Johnny and Suzette Redwine, We competed in the Denver Rock and Roll Marathon together last October. I just adore these two!<br />
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Running happy (for me) involves a couple of things: great traveling companions and perfect weather. I had great travelling companions and the weather was PERFECT for running. It was windy, but the temperature ranged from 45-60 degrees. Aah, perfect running weather!<br />
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Here is the gang trying to stay warm before the start: Christie, Lori, me, Amy and Erin. Erin was competing in her first half-marathon ever and cruised her way in to a 2:07 finish. She was wanting under 2:30. I say she crushed her goal. Don't you? We had a great race mom: Amanda. Amanda drove us to the start line, parked the car at the finish line, and cheered for us with her sombrero on throughout the course. Everything went smoothly and thanks to her super driving skills it was a fun weekend. Here we are trying to stay warm after the race!<br />
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Amanda, Erin, me, Suzette below me, Lori, Christie and Amy<br />
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Next up: TCS New York City Marathon...do I have a race plan? Yes. Finish. I want to run happy so I can take it all in and enjoy myself. I need to BQ so that if a certain group of special running friends all qualify we will go together in 2017. The only time I enjoy being old is the qualifying BQ time for my age is 3:55. I need to race under 3:49 to secure my spot.<br />
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I know I have been terrible about blogging this past year. I keep thinking things need to be EPIC. I am accepting that this is my issue and I will work on it this year.....through the blog. Thanks for reading!Health and Wellness on the runhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00970865652929893870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3088575399197773930.post-71231923193004958342014-11-30T05:09:00.000-08:002014-11-30T05:09:09.515-08:00The Elusive 100 miles in 24 hours is Finally Mine and I have a Virginia State Record to Prove It!It's been (gulp) a week since I ran the Crooked Road 24 Hour Ultra, but the miles still seem fresh. This was the first year I achieved breaking the 100 mile barrier and ironically this year was the easiest. Was I stronger than last year? Probably yes. Was I more patient than last year? Decidedly so. Was I more relaxed about it this year? ABSOLUTELY. I have photographic proof of my calmness. In previous years I would not have stopped long enough for a photo for fear of being late to the starting line. We were definitely bundled up because it was 21 degrees outside. The good news is that we knew this would be the coldest it would get throughout the next 24 hours.<br />
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Me, Chris Bean, Trish Lebsack & Josie Whitmore</div>
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I <strike>coerced</strike> convinced some tennis/running friends into participating in the Crooked Road 24 Hour Ultra. Trish Lebsack & Chris Bean came to cheer me on last year with another friend, Chris Walker. Even though I had a rough day (didn't feel well, even colder than this year complete with snow showers) they loved the party atmosphere of a 24 hour race. You see, everyone has different goals and aspirations but the common denominator is everyone has FUN! The volunteers are awesome and since the loop is only .95 miles long you get to see everyone quite often. By far, this is my favorite course. I liken it to cupcake racing. You get food and drink every .95 miles. What's not to love? <br />
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Trish, Josie, Chris and myself show up to the starting line and it's like a reunion of sorts. Usually at the start of a race candid shots of me closely resemble someone about to throw up, not this time. I found this one and I look like I'm happy and confident. I don't know if I'm stretching or strutting.<br />
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I got the most sleep I've ever gotten before one of these type of races and felt FULLY ready to tackle my 100. My friend, Charlie Engle, and I shared a picnic table under the shelter. Every year I've procured the same table. I think his superior talent rubbed off on me which enabled me to break a 100. Anyway, I had oodles of stuff (as usual) because you never know what you are going to need for a 24 hour race. I knew Charlie was going to be there all night, but I knew I had my friend Jen Pack running with me for a little in the evening (she ran 10 miles with me!) and Pam (who I met at this race several years earlier and I adore) running with me at 2am. My friend, Dena, shared the table with us, but didn't show up for the race until the start. In fact, I didn't see her until a couple of laps into the race. We are sole sister racing buddies and good friends. We have worked together at 24 hour races before and have pushed each other to new distances that we never thought possible. She and I mostly ran together the first 50 miles. She had logged many more miles than me the last couple of months, so her body was done after 50. If she had not done a 24 hour race, a marathon, etc. I think she would have been right there by my side. We took a little photo somewhere in the 35-50 mile range. <br />
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Unlike last year, I decided that I was not going to attack the sugar table until deep into the race. I think this may have had a big impact on my blood sugar levels. I felt great throughout and I did not have a single gummy bear, oreo, etc. I did have my magical elixir, coke, but I didn't have any until after the 50 mile mark. I took a couple of ounces every 5-8 miles. I did drink some Nuun, Heed, Gatorade and water throughout. Another reason I had so much fun was that we had so many friends from Greensboro running in the event. Everyone arrived with different plans, but it was so exciting seeing everyone throughout the day and into the night.<br />
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Food. I probably didn't eat enough of it, but I did have Kashi bars, banana chips, Honey Stinger waffles and peanut butter crackers. Crooked Road provided McDonald's hamburgers, peanut butter & jelly sandwiches, soup, and pizza. I stayed away from dairy this year, but had plenty of sandwich squares and chicken broth to fill up on. The volunteers made it easy.....I would ask for broth and by the next time you arrived at the table, it would be there. It was magical! I also had some great help from Chip and Kerri Person. They are Wilder's parents and it was so nice seeing them every mile while Wilder completed 50 miles! I was so proud of his progress in this sport. Longevity does not come overnight and he is well on his way to really make an impact in this sport.<br />
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Around 2am I (for some unknown reason) felt like I could not have solid food anymore. I wasn't feeling bad, but I just knew I didn't want to eat anything. I then switched to broth, Muscle Milk, Gu's and Honey Stinger Chews until I finished. I never had GI issues (unlike the year before) which was lucky. I also never felt delirious and I definitely didn't do any death marching. I was running, jogging and power walking throughout. I don't think I slowly walked at all as a matter of fact.<br />
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Pam and I ran a few laps but I soon sent her to administer to the runners that really needed her. I was feeling great. Unfortunately we were passing some people that were doing a <strike>death march</strike> slow, staggered walk so I told her I felt great and they needed her more than me. I continued my jogging/race walking as I counted down the laps I needed to achieve my goal. I even took a selfie in the brand new heated bathroom with only 4 1/2 laps to go!<br />
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The eyes were definitely tired looking and the heavy salt intake was taking its toll. But.....the bathroom was warm and I wanted 1 more minute of warmth....taking a picture seemed normal (maybe I was a bit delirious?). Maybe it was foreshadowing because this picture proved to be the signal for my friends, Mel and Christine, to get there fast because I was going to finish ahead of schedule! I had no idea they were coming.</div>
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Every time I was within 50 feet or so of the volunteer table I would say, "HHHHIIIIIIIII Taaaaaarrrrrraaaaaaaa" (yes, I dragged out her name that long because it was great to see her each lap!) Well....when she yelled that I just finished 105 laps my smile was huge, but when Mel and Christine appeared I went euphoric. I remember jumping up and down (knocking my headlamp off) yelling, "You came!" over and over and over. I then remember giggling like a kid at Christmas and we took off. I forewarned the girls at the table that they might hear some yelling when I reached the 100 mile sign, but that I was okay. The 3 of us took off hand in hand and we screamed at the top of our lungs at the sign....well, the girls at the table screamed back. We couldn't stop laughing. We ran the rest of the lap and I stopped. Yes, I stopped. My goal was 100 miles. I completed 100.7. Could I have gone on for the next hour and a half? I don't know. All I knew is that I felt so great I didn't want to jinx myself. I then cheered Emily on to break the Virginia State Record for her age group and overall. Little did I know that I broke a Virginia State Record that day for my 45-49 year old age group and ended up 2nd overall female. I sat by the fire and waited for my husband to pick me up. When Dan arrived I think he thought he was going to walk a few laps with me, but I was already done. <strike>We</strike> He packed up all my things and I decided I couldn't wait for the awards ceremony. The tiredness set in. Ricky Scott, the race director, handed me my precious jewel. I couldn't have been more proud to receive this</div>
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My day got just a little bit brighter because I was inducted into the Team Buttercup group. Bill Keane, pictured here with Amy Surrette and myself sent me a "Suck It Up Buttercup" shirt and the 100 mile sign he confiscated from the course. I talked to that sign for 106 laps....I truly YELLED to that sign 106 times. I cannot wait to hang it in my home office.</div>
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Sorry this was so long, but I am trying to blog a little more often. I keep reminding myself it doesn't have to be big or epic. It just has to 'be'. Happy Running !!</div>
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I would love to have you follow me on following social media sites:</div>
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Instagram: cindyabarbour</div>
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Twitter: @cindybarbour1</div>
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Pinterest: cindybarbour.com</div>
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I felt lazy not running in a Thanksgiving Day/Weekend race, but I did manage to run 10 miles on Saturday with Jeriann and her husband, Byron. We ran happy....can you guess who's wearing the dirty shoes?</div>
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Health and Wellness on the runhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00970865652929893870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3088575399197773930.post-63117605138072825662014-11-27T05:46:00.000-08:002014-11-27T05:46:24.779-08:00The 2014 Road to Crooked Road, a year in quick reviewWell....I finally did it. I completed 100.7 miles within 24 hours. Actually, due to my poor math skills, I completed it in 22 hours 27 minutes. I thought I was in the 23rd hour so I was actually running quite a bit those last couple of hours thinking I was going to be racing the clock. Seeing as I have not had time to blog in the last YEAR, I thought I should give a quick recap of the year and the race and then go into more specifics of the race in a separate post.<br />
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2014. What a year it has been thus far. To be honest, it has flown by not just because I am getting <strike>old </strike> seasoned, but also because I returned to the full-time work force in February. I am back in the wellness industry at Starmount Forest Country Club which is 3.5 miles from my house. I have the privilege of imparting my passion for wellness to a great group of members. Besides loving my job, I have the most incredible view from my desk. Most who know me know I don't sit well, but if you have to sit to get paperwork done, a great view of the golf course helps!<br />
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A couple of days before I started my job, I paced the Myrtle Beach Half Marathon. I LOVE pacing races. I get out of my own head and focus on helping my group achieve their goal. I paced the 1:45 group and I take my job seriously! I always forewarn my pace group that I will indeed talk the whole time. I also tell them I will sing, joke and get the crowd involved. I am enjoying some high success rates because they are relaxed and laughing. There is no better compliment than to have someone come to me after it's over telling/hugging me that I helped them achieve a personal best. If I could, I would pace every weekend. Here is one of the only photos I have from that day, my friend Melanie and I picking up our pacing shirts.<br />
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March brought me participating in the Wrightsville Beach Half Marathon. I was with awesome friends, but I was food poisoned the day before the race and didn't have anything in my system for over 24 hours. I ran the race because I signed up for the race. I pulled back every time I felt dizzy, and just enjoyed the run. This is a theme this year......I've been running h a p p y . I know I don't look very happy in this photo, but I had had zero food for over 28 hours and ran this race and somehow kept everything together. I was indeed happy!<br />
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April brought another pacing job. This time it was the Raleigh Rock & Roll Marathon. I was entrusted with the 4 hour pace group....and as you can see by the picture I <strike>took my job seriously</strike> had an incredible time getting my group in on time. In fact, with the exception of only a few I had most of my group ahead of me. This day was hot, hot, hot. I was carrying 6 extra Gu's in my pocket and begged my group to stay hydrated. This was probably the hardest pacing job I ever encountered because of the humidity and the sun. Two people lost their lives in the half marathon this day, and my prayers still remain with these 2 families. Rock & Roll events are incredible because they are well organized and hearing the bands throughout the course make it even more fun! </div>
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Due to a last minute phone call from a dear running friend, Rebecca Byerly, of Women of the Mountain, I was invited to pace her in Lake Tahoe during her Tahoe 200 race (may I just say it is REALLY 202 miles) in September. It was a whirlwind trip I will never forget. I flew and drove to Tahoe getting there somewhere around 2am with a Greensboro high school student named Wilder Person. Wilder and I became fast friends even with the decades between us because we were there to get Rebecca across the finish line at all cost. Wilder is not a seasoned runner and did over 40 miles with Rebecca. Amazing! I ended up pacing somewhere in the neighborhood of 90 miles and collectively we helped get Rebecca to the finish line as the 4th overall female. It was easy being her friend and mentor, it was hard getting tough with her a few times as she battled fatigue. I was so happy to help her, this picture is one of my favorites......<br />
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I ran a few other races, but by far my biggest race this year was the Denver Rock N Roll Marathon. My hubby and I flew out to Colorado on a Friday, explored downtown Denver that afternoon and spent the next day hiking up near Boulder. I knew I was going to have fun at Denver and not try to race it, so hiking for many hours in the mountains seemed normal to me. I fell in love with Colorado and hope to return one day soon. I encountered some altitude issues during the race on Sunday, but I ran happy. I ended up 17th woman overall but the most interesting note is that I was the first female NOT from Colorado on the results list. In my crazy world, I consider that a win! I look too fresh for just running a marathon, but my time was pretty (relatively) slow for me.<br />
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Now we come to Crooked Road 24 Hour Ultra. This race is a true test of your will and determination. It gets dark by 5:15pm and doesn't get light again till almost 7am. That is a LONG time to be running with a headlamp. Crooked Road is set in a park near Rocky Mount, VA and is a certified .95 mile loop. Notice I said .95, not 9.5! May I just say I LOVE this loop. It gave me 106 times to say hello to the great volunteers and more opportunity to run into people. I love people! Especially during a 24 hour race. Here is a photo of my Greensboro Sole Sister, Dena, who was with me when I started running Crooked Road 4 years ago. If you haven't read any of my previous posts from Crooked, I invite you to because this year's experience was NOTHING like the previous years. I will explain that in more detail in an upcoming post. <br />
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I wanted to wish everyone a wonderful Thanksgiving and thank you for reading. I hope to write a full race report by the weekend! I leave you with a few things I am thankful for:<br />
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1. I am thankful I have the most wonderful husband, family and friends who support, lift, and encourage me. More importantly, they accept me the way I am.<br />
2. I am thankful I have remained a healthy runner thanks to cross training and actually listening to my body.<br />
3. I am thankful I love running everything from the 800m to 100 miles.<br />
4. I am thankful that I surround myself with women who empower me and not try to tear me down.<br />
5. I am thankful I was born with endless energy which probably drives many people crazy :)<br />
6. I am thankful I have met so many incredible people through a sport I love.<br />
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Happy Thanksgiving!<br />
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<br />Health and Wellness on the runhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00970865652929893870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3088575399197773930.post-20254975102323278822013-11-29T05:51:00.000-08:002013-11-29T05:51:32.473-08:00The Good and The Bad. What a 24 Hour Race Feels Like.<br />
I have been contemplating what to write about for the last 3 days. There are so many facets to a 24 hour race. I decided to break it into 2 parts. The first part will entail all the logistics. The second part will delve into the emotional side of a 24 hour race.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo & PhotoShopping Courtesy of Nathan Daughtrey<br />
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<strong>LOGISTICS</strong><br />
We had 13 runners from Greensboro tackle the 3rd Annual Crooked Road 24 Hour Run. I have been fortunate to be a participant all 3 years. I have made some great running friendships all 3 years. Ultra runners themselves are a cheery bunch. You can arrive to these type of events and not know anyone, but quickly you forge bonds and form lasting friendships. I still wonder if ultra runners are just genuinely nice people, or are they genuinely happy to see other like-minded (crazy to the outside world) athletes. Either way, they become family.....fast!<br />
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I had made a supply list for some of the other Greensboro runners, so here is what I sent them:<br />
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Supplies List for Crooked Road 24 hour Ultra
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4 outfits….really….you have to get out of wet clothes to stay warm<br />
Big jacket/hat(s)/mittens/gloves/neck warmer……it gets REALLY cold in the middle of the night
Fleece pullovers- 2 thicknesses….thick and thin
3-4 pairs of shoes and the same for socks….<br />
I used 3 pairs at Hinson
Hot hands- I used 2 in my gloves, 2 in my shirt, 1 in my back pocket and one in my turtleneck
Fleece blanket….you will want it when you are in walk mode…it definitely helps
Arm warmers/compression socks- I took off compression socks at midnight- not sure if I will wear them at Crooked.<br />
5-6 Gu Gels
2-3 pkgs of Gu Chomps <br />
3 cans of coke or other magic elixir<br />
2 5-hour energy drinks
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1 Sugar Free RedBull<br />
Hard Candy- help wet your mouth when you start to dehydrate a little<br />
I made a gallon of Gatorade that I watered down a little into bottles I could quickly grab-the cups at the tables are so small that you need real fluid sometimes
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Yoga Mat (for stretching on) and pillow
Massage Stick/Foam Roller/tennis balls I used them all during Hinson
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Pretzels or salty snacks….definitely need the salt. <br />
I love dipping half cooked potatoes into salt
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I had 2 Ipods with me but didn’t use them until the evening…so many people around during the day. I downloaded some podcasts and some music <br />
Winter coat & Scarf. I wore them the whole time at night.<br />
I will definitely bring some soup mixes, or cans of soup.
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Slip-on shoes (like Crocs)- you don’t want your feet touching the ground and you won’t have any balance- trust me on this one.
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2 or 3 towels- 2 big ones, 1 hand towel.<br />
Sanitizer- you will not want to go wash your hands, the bathroom is too far<br />
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Quite the list, but I ended up using most of everything.<br />
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The weather forecast changed so many times the week preceding the race that I frequently double-checked what city I had typed in. The night before the race the weather people decided it could rain on Saturday before late afternoon and then there would be wind gusts up to 35 mph throughout the rest of Saturday into Sunday morning. They also predicted snow flurries. Did I mention they predicted real feel temperatures in the single digits? They were accurate with the exception (thank goodness) of rain. We, fortunately, did not have any rain....just snow flurries.<br />
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So, as you can see, you couldn't go into this race without preparation because the elements were going to be brutal, but I will save all those comments for the emotional section :)<br />
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I drove up the morning of the race with Christie & Bekah. We had so much fun stopping to get a bacon biscuit. I need laughter the morning of a race because I still tend to get very nervous about my own personal performance. I am working on it, but alas "working" is a verb. Look how much fun Bekah and Christie are having during the race. This makes my heart smile. I am a very competitive person, but somehow I really, really don't care how I place on a 24 hr. race. I know it is hard to believe, but I don't even like to look at the leader boards because I'm racing myself; my own demons.<br />
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The great thing about the Crooked Road course is the .95 mile loop. Yes. I'm telling you, it is GREAT to have food, drink and PEOPLE every mile! Would I prefer it to be a 1 mile exactly loop? Absolutely. On a good day I'm horrible at math. On a 24 hour running/walking adventure I'm downright scary. One question I frequently get asked (especially after 3 years of this race) is how do I not go insane going in circles? I have never disliked this loop. Ever. I love the winding path through brief trees. I love running along the Pigg River. I love hearing the waterfalls on the back corner of the course. I love the little footbridge and the gravel road that leads to people, food & drink! At night, there is no lighting so there are glow sticks which light the way. It's really very peaceful at night. The moon didn't come up till after 11pm (I think) and it illuminated much of the path, which was a good thing since my headlamp died around 4:30am.<br />
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The race itself started out just fine. Here is a photo with my running friend, Amy. Amy ran 102 miles at Hinson Lake 24 hour in September. I actually ran a number of laps with her son, Drew, who is 10 and completed 50 miles there. We became facebook friends and the rest is history. I absolutely adore her! She is a rockstar!<br />
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We ran a few laps together and chatted at the food table. We encouraged one another and inspired the other to keep moving. She also wanted to hit 100 miles. Unfortunately it was not our day. No woman went over 100 miles this year, and only 3 men made it. We have chatted a few times since the race and we both are pleased with how we did considering the elements, but deep down still a little disappointed we didn't make it.<br />
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I have never made it a full 24 hours in a race because I previously hit my goals and went home. Since I didn't make my goal, I did make it the full 24 hours. It was really neat being a part of a small group that got to lay their stick down when we heard the air horn at 8am. My husband was with me at the time and it is a moment I will NEVER forget.<br />
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Now....how I REALLY felt.....<br />
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<strong>EMOTIONS</strong><br />
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The race started out great! I felt good and I smiled for quite a few photos throughout the day. A couple of hours into the race, my BFF Melissa came to the race with Bailey (her adorable Golden Retriever). She ran a few laps with me. Bailey ran a few laps with me and it felt GREAT to have her there to distract this weird feeling I was having most of the morning. After she left, it wasn't too much longer before some more of my friends showed up; Trish, Chris & Chris. I am the luckiest woman in the world to have such great friends that would brave the cold to see me for a brief stint every time I went around the course. <br />
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I ran with people for quite a while, but when I started feeling off, I wanted to be inside my own head. Off. What does that mean? Wish I knew. I was feeling lethargic yes, but it was more than that. About 26 miles into the race I was feeling like I could not regulate my temperature. I'd be hot, then I'd be cold. I then started having some GI issues. Controlled diarrhea, if you will. Sorry about that. Here I am in this photo, hot...notice the other people still wearing jackets, etc. behind me.</div>
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I was able to continue to take fluids (protein drinks included), but I was having a hard time eating solids. I did quite a few gels and chomps throughout the day and night. I couldn't understand what was happening because I felt fabulous at Hinson. I finished 75 miles by midnight there. What was happening here? I was deviating from the plan. Yikes! Late in the afternoon every time I saw my Greensboro peeps I would burst out in tears. Don & Kathi came in the late afternoon with tomato soup and I cried as I tried to drink some of it while Kathi & Cara rubbed my legs to loosen them. Once it got dark my trio (Trish, Chris, & Chris) came back to cheer me on for a few more laps. Here is a very dark photo, but you can see the elation on my face to see friendly faces in the cold.<br />
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I wanted to hit my goal of 100 miles. I wasn't taking any flack from my body. Usually it is my mind that is my nemesis; not my body. When the Greensboro peeps were leaving for their hotel, they asked me several times if I wanted to go with them. I emphatically said no. I was staying with Christine, Keith & David. I think I remember crying as I said goodbye to them. I started running again and ran into Keith. He has done 100 miles before, just not in 24 hours, so it was my job in the middle of the night to help him achieve his goal. He was having a really tough time. At one point at our communal table, he said he was going to pack it in for the day. I looked over at Christine and she was shivering so badly that I didn't have it in my heart to try and convince him to stay. I think I teared up, gave them a hug, and soldiered on. I have to tell you. Giving up never entered my mind. In retrospect, maybe I should have? That is the interesting part of this journey. Was I being too stubborn? Who knows. I do know I wore my black fellow flower which means, "Why yes, I am a force to be reckoned with". I had it in my hair during the day and my pocket at night. I touched it frequently to channel energy.<br />
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Around 1am the wind kicked up even more. David was still there. He is the one in the photo above that looks like he is running on water. David would run a few laps, walk a few laps, then get warm in his SUV. We got to jog a few then walk a few laps together. It started snowing and we interlocked our arms like we were on our way to a debutante ball. Here is where I should tell you what I was wearing at the time (it's a wonder I could move at all!):<br />
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Climawear long sleeve shirt<br />
Polar fleece pull-over<br />
Down jacket<br />
Lined, heavy raincoat (to block the wind)<br />
thick, lined running tights<br />
polar fleece pajama bottoms over top of the tights<br />
hooded sweatshirt tied around my waist to keep my butt warm.<br />
Fleece neck warmer I got in Sun Valley, ID<br />
Winter hat given to us at Crooked Road last year<br />
Hood from lined rain jacket over top of my hat<br />
skiing mittens<br />
I had hand warmers in both mittens, in my sports bra, in the back pocket of my running tights, and in the front waistband of my running tights. I was BARELY warm enough. Barely.<br />
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David and I chatted about music and the stars. He talked about how much fun he was having at his first ultra. He's never run a marathon, yet he was having a blast at an ultra. I loved it! When he decided to go lie down in his SUV, I had rejuvenated myself again and even starting running again. The wind gusts were up to 35 mph. It felt like I was being blown over a number of times. Anyway, I was doing it. I knew I wasn't going to hit my goal yet I was still determined to see what I could accomplish. I was quite proud that I was still going, even knowing I wasn't going to succeed. That was a huge break-through for me. When things are going well, things are easy. It's when things are going very wrong that you learn volumes about yourself.<br />
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It is the middle of the night and you know kept me trudging along? The FANTASTIC volunteers. They would bring you soup, coffee, hot chocolate and pretty much anything else you needed. When my headlamp went dead around 4:30am, it was Sharon (wife of the race director) who loaned me her knuckle lights. Sharon has been there for me through my best and more importantly, my worst. It is amazing the level of care and hospitality all the volunteers gave us runners. I would have been a frozen popsicle somewhere on the course if it had not been for their help.<br />
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Daylight started emerging. Hallelujah. My neck was sore from holding up the headlamp. My back was sore probably because I was leaning over to illuminate my pathway with the headlamp. Here is where I tell you I did not get a single blister. Not a one. I only got 2 chafe marks and they were where my capris squeezed my butt cheeks together. Owww. Yes, that took a number of days and a lot of Aquaphor to heal. Some of the Greensboro runners came back to get a few more laps in. I think I cried when I saw each one. I walked a few laps with most of them. Then, the most emotional moment of the whole 24 hours. I saw Dan's car coming down the road towards the loop. I started crying and hyperventilating. I was so excited to see him I started running again. I had less than 10 minutes left in the race so I told him to pack up all my stuff and I was going to run one more lap. I ran the whole lap, even up the one big hill. When I got around the course back to Dan I asked him to jog with me because I had 2 minutes left before the air horn and I wanted to get to the 100 mile marker on the course, even though I knew I didn't complete 100 miles. I looked at that sign for 94 laps. I told that sign for over 48 laps that I was going to see that 100 mile marker. I then told that sign that even though I wasn't going to make it I was going to be joyful for EVERY lap I could see it.<br />
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I was zombie-like for a couple of days, but then all of the sudden I snapped back to the real me. I never know if the fatigue is from running/walking so many miles or from the lack of sleep. As I sit here and type I've already started running again. I've taught a couple of yoga classes and 1 extreme interval (3/4 intensity for me) class. I feel like I accomplished more by falling short of my goal then if I had indeed succeeded. I think ultras make you dig DEEP within yourself. Do you have what it takes to persevere is a question you ask yourself many times. I learned that I am tougher than I ever thought I was. I learned that I can now safely call myself an ultra runner. For those of you who will ask, I was 3rd female and 8th overall. Not bad for a middle distance runner :) What's up next? I'm pacing the 1:45 half marathon at Myrtle Beach and I couldn't be happier and excited about it!<br />
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<br />Health and Wellness on the runhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00970865652929893870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3088575399197773930.post-22235823292500166242013-10-28T10:53:00.002-07:002013-10-28T10:53:48.832-07:00The Greensboro Marathon Journey. I paced a great group of runnersAfter a fitful night sleep, I woke up early to a dark, 28 degree day. I was so excited about pacing for the 3:50:00 group of the Greensboro Marathon, nothing could dampen my spirit or enthusiasm. This was the inaugural Greensboro Marathon that was a point-to-point race from Elon University to downtown Greensboro. We boarded buses from the finish line area which took us to the starting line. I proudly wore my pacing shirt with several layers underneath to stay warm. I was doubly excited because I had 2 of my Sole Sisters, Dena and Sarah, with me at the start. Here is a picture of Sarah who was about to embark on her first marathon journey and myself near the start of the race huddling to keep warm.<br />
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Luckily, I knew several people which definitely made the time go by quickly until the start of the race. Although, it doesn't take much for me to engage in conversation with just about anybody; especially runners! Sarah's race plan was going to be to hang with me as long as possible and then hold on until the finish. She had extra motivation and I will divulge that at the end.<br />
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The race went off and it was hard to convince everybody to stay slow and keep our 8:46 average mile pace. You get wrapped up in the feeling of running and warming up. Many tend to go out too fast which leads to 'hitting the wall' in the later stages of the marathon.<br />
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I told everyone they were either going to love me or hate me during this 3:50:00 adventure. I was going to try and keep them focused on their goals and getting them to experience the magnificent journey in a confident, positive way. It was great because 3 or 4 miles into the race, a runner passed our group who was in my Myrtle Beach half marathon pacing group and he told everyone how I had helped him achieve a PR that day and that they were in good hands. My heart swelled and I think I got a little teary eyed, unless it was the cold air (wink, wink).<br />
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I wore 2 Garmins to ensure success of my group. I had my newer Garmin set with our 8:46 pace and my older Garmin to give me in the moment pace, distance and time elapsed. I was constantly monitoring our progress because this was a hilly course. Here is a photo of me during the after party with my Garmins<br />
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The Greensboro Marathon was a beautifully rolling course with the exception of 3 major climbs. My job was to instill confidence in my runners and I used the three plus hours to impart all of my racing knowledge. The main focus was that my PR's in the marathon (3:10 Charlottesville) and half marathon (1:27 Cannonball) were on notably hilly courses. I explained that hills were good because it gave your muscles something different to do. My runners did great. I had great help from another veteran marathoner, Jeff, who validated or imparted knowledge of his own to our group of new marathoners. It was great to have someone else who has experienced the highs and lows that IS the marathon.<br />
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The course was very well marked and on the pavement below us were all the marathon mile markers. I would yell "Bam" every time we stepped on a mile marker and exclaim, "Another mile down, now forget it and live and revel in THIS mile". It was amazing how quickly the mile markers came up on us. The sights of the horse farms, cows, cute little downtown Gibsonville and the journey into Greensboro definitely added to the charm of this race.<br />
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Here is a photo of us about to finish a big climb at mile 13. Out of nowhere came the first wind of the day. My hair is sideways in this photo! But look at the determination on all of our faces!<br />
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They were all working hard: Rusty, Jeff, Brandon, Mr. Brandon, Kelsey, Sarah and Zach. It was quite a hill (of course the photo doesn't portray that) but they looked great! I encouraged my runners to glance behind them when they reached the peak of each hill to see what they accomplished. I also told them to give themselves a pat on the back to relax their neck and shoulders from climbing. <br />
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At around mile 19, I started talking about the wall and what it feels like and how to overcome it. It was at this point that my group starting passing people who had started out too fast and didn't have anything left in the tank. I was careful to make sure everyone we passed was okay and offered fuel (my sleeves and shorts were filled with gels and chomps). Only 1 runner took me up on my offer, but at least I did my job and offered. I think it gave my new marathoners a boost in confidence that they were feeling so good. Of course I encouraged everyone, not just those in my group. When we hit the 20 mile marker, I think I said, "What a beautiful morning to race a 10k, isn't it"? I got a few laughs, but a few were starting to feel the effects of running for so long. With each water stop I was insistent about my runners getting water/Gatorade or fuel. It was nice to have my boss from the Bryan Family YMCA, David Heggie, hand me a cup of Coke (my magic elixir). I took one sip and gave the rest to some of my runners who did not know it can be a secret weapon. I learned its magical powers at my first Crooked Road 24 hour Ultra 3 years ago.<br />
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With only a 5k to go, I told my flock that this is the time for them to fly if they were feeling good. They didn't have to fly right then, but they were to think about it. I was very proud to see some take off at that moment and we never caught up with them so it was definitely the right move for them! With 1.2 miles to go, I encouraged the runners that were left that this is their time to take off. We had a few runners drop back some, but their goal was to break 4 hours and they were clearly going to do that. With less than a mile to go, I found myself all alone! I began to pick up the pace more to run in with people than anything else. I made the last turn before the finish line, stopped briefly to kiss my hubby and crossed the line doing a happy dance in 3:49:20. I then ran back and helped my new marathoners finish their journey. I would yell their name to the crowd and tell them that this was his/her first marathon and to give them a huge welcome! It was great to see so many happy faces of runners finishing their journey.<br />
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The finish that moved me to visible tears was my little Sarah. Here is a photo of her and I about to cross the finish line of her first marathon. Sarah's journey started 2 years ago when she went through her whole marathon training program and got injured the week before the race. Then last year, Sarah lost her mother to illness. The Sole Sisters bought her a pendant she had pinned to the inside of her pocket. On one side was her mother in her youth and on the other side was a photo of Sarah and her mom. All of us were moved to tears at the finish line and it was great her Dad and hubby were there to hug and comfort her. You can see we are both wearing our fellowflowers.com in our hair. The black one I am wearing is described as: <strong>Rock Star. Sexy, strong, sassy. Rule breaker and resilient spirit. Dances like she crosses the finish line- with her hands up. Why yes, I am a force to be reckoned with. Bloom, baby. Bloom. </strong>Sarah wore red and it represents, <strong>Love, passion, commitment and spirit. It takes strength to do what you love. </strong><br />
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That is the thing about marathons. They are a journey. Most training programs are 16-18 weeks long of diligent running, stretching and proper eating. Usually there are sacrifices involved, but most importantly it is about the strengthening of the mind, body and spirit. Marathons are hard. I don't care what pace you average, how many you've run, etc. It is more about what can you do with the cards you are dealt. A marathon is about THAT day. On any given day, anybody can beat anybody. You never know what will happen when you step up to the starting line. The key to marathon success is to trust your training and to adjust your expectations when necessary. I love the journey because I learn something EVERY TIME I'm racing or pacing. I learned quite a bit on Saturday. I mainly learned that I love pacing!<br />
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Although I LOVED pacing this marathon; it is now over. Now it is time to focus on my 100 miles at the Crooked Road 24 Hour race on November 23rd. It is a little over 3 1/2 weeks away. Did I mention I'm excited?!<br />
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Happy running and racing to all those doing Fall marathons/half-marathons!Health and Wellness on the runhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00970865652929893870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3088575399197773930.post-60014765514371926882013-10-01T21:20:00.001-07:002013-10-01T21:20:14.427-07:00Hinson Lake 92.7 miles.....Believe in your dream; your body will followI am currently on the couch thinking about all the wonderful memories I have from last Saturday's Hinson Lake 24 hour Ultra. I am still in complete shock that I exceeded my goal of 90 miles. Our local newspaper reporter (and fellow runner friend) Eddie Wooten, asked Dena & I to write a short report on the race, so here are the basics that I shared with him:<br />
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Lucida Grande"; font-size: 13pt;">The race: 8<sup>th</sup> Annual Hinson Lake 24-Hour Ultra
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Lucida Grande"; font-size: 13pt;">September 28<sup>th</sup> – 29<sup>th</sup>, 2013</span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Lucida Grande"; font-size: 13pt;">The place: Hinson Lake, Rockingham, NC</span></div>
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</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Lucida Grande"; font-size: 13pt;">My entry fee: $24.00<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Lucida Grande"; font-size: 13pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Lucida Grande"; font-size: 13pt;">About the race: Run as many miles as you can around a 1.52 trail
loop. There were many runners that came to just put in a few laps and there
were some who relentlessly hammered out a ridiculous amount of miles.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Lucida Grande"; font-size: 13pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>Entry limited to
240 runners.<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Lucida Grande"; font-size: 13pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Lucida Grande"; font-size: 13pt;"><strong>Why I went:</strong> This was my first year at Hinson Lake.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My friend, Dena, told me how great it was to
run a longer loop than Crooked Road (1.52 instead of .95 miles per lap).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was definitely correct.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Lucida Grande"; font-size: 13pt;">My goal going into the race was 90 miles (I completed 75 miles
last year at Crooked Road, so it was a natural progression).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I completed 92.7 miles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Lucida Grande"; font-size: 13pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Lucida Grande"; font-size: 13pt;"> <strong>Pluses</strong>: This type of race is ideal because you are only minutes away
from food, drink, bathroom, massage table, and PEOPLE!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The people in and around this race are
fantastic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most everyone chatted, even
in the middle of the morning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Lucida Grande"; font-size: 13pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
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</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Lucida Grande"; font-size: 13pt;"><strong>Minus:</strong> It gets dark and once it gets dark it is hard to keep
your energy levels at an optimum level.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
temperature only went down to 54 degrees, but after running all day my body
definitely felt cold in the middle of the night.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Lucida Grande"; font-size: 13pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span><br />
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Lucida Grande"; font-size: 13pt;">I ran in 3 different pairs of shoes
and I think I have a complete collection of every type of sand used to create
the path in my shoes. Not sure if I need a washing machine or a trashcan.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Lucida Grande"; font-size: 13pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
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</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Lucida Grande"; font-size: 13pt;"><strong>Racing tidbit:</strong><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can be
out on a 6 mile run and feel like it is an eternity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m out on this course and if I feel like walking..Guess
what?!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I WALK!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(I ran approximately 27 miles before I did
any walking-if I plan on breaking a 100 miles, I’m going to need to walk
earlier).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Lucida Grande"; font-size: 13pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
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</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Lucida Grande"; font-size: 13pt;"><strong>Another morsel</strong>-you really do not tire of the loop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was really great because you start over a
bridge, then you pass all the tables of lap counters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After the lap counters are the tables of
drinks (Gatorade, water and the magical elixirs: Ginger ale, Coke &
Mountain Dew).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many of the runners set
up tents along the lakeside so that by the time you pass all the fun people
crewing for their runners you’ve already hit ¼ mile marker.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then you cross a whole lot of foot bridges
(in the dark you pray you are running straight so you don’t fall off).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is a really long 300’ bridge complete
with a gazebo before you enter what they call Mt. Hinson, and what I call
climbing land of roots, <strike>divets</strike> holes, and loose sand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This section was challenging mentally and physically once you started
getting tired.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then it was the section
where you were counting the sewer lids till you saw the last ¼ mile marker (up
a brief hill) which emptied you into the parking lot near the bridge where you
began.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some laps seemed to go by so
quickly, other laps felt like an eternity.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Lucida Grande"; font-size: 13pt;">In my last blog, I told you that my friend, Dena, was also participating in the event. She exceeded her goal as well. We probably couldn't have done it without the help of her husband, Blair, and some friends, Melissa & Daniel. Here are some pictures with some of the gang, Blair took the picture so he's missing! No other race would I have dared to stop and take a photo...that would have been valuable seconds! That's one of the biggest reasons I love these ultra events.</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Lucida Grande"; font-size: 13pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRrq22-c9UyyEH_fA2M2Mf2zk8F9kSEjMdX9bRlyj-GnIh86-OwXBzvt_4eK-8eWehk0zrb9Cp7yo2tFIUEJs4B6NJfhgQ_1pJ52NiFzmY4e67c0CA1TfKuZFYU9T5mE6209_dXz85vQVT/s1600/gang+at+hinson+lake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRrq22-c9UyyEH_fA2M2Mf2zk8F9kSEjMdX9bRlyj-GnIh86-OwXBzvt_4eK-8eWehk0zrb9Cp7yo2tFIUEJs4B6NJfhgQ_1pJ52NiFzmY4e67c0CA1TfKuZFYU9T5mE6209_dXz85vQVT/s320/gang+at+hinson+lake.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Lucida Grande"; font-size: 13pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY-VxgkLzQezU865JT5UNiaTOaylkXEDwXYrXX_iw_Fs5JwFi4M81TiAtwJTuFKCQfr2x7t99IJ0GrddSdz8tz2KR_p17FWCzWG6hqWD0jK9dZXGCngn88Z2_gGLD23wUMiyoS6KWf5Lth/s1600/at+the+start+of+Hinson+lake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY-VxgkLzQezU865JT5UNiaTOaylkXEDwXYrXX_iw_Fs5JwFi4M81TiAtwJTuFKCQfr2x7t99IJ0GrddSdz8tz2KR_p17FWCzWG6hqWD0jK9dZXGCngn88Z2_gGLD23wUMiyoS6KWf5Lth/s320/at+the+start+of+Hinson+lake.jpg" width="240" /></a></span><a name='more'></a><br />
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Lucida Grande"; font-size: 13pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8_azSRyRdDEs0ZKc8O1gA7OmChFSnllAbJ-yVK5nW_apnYueY2lwrbLSGOVkDXqdcCZd3ZBq2_0bBvvRt1w1X1-i0wUYi4FRkw4feKTZ5PRM9X1RUz9PA0_BvVFK9i7oCgJkR2NA5UHDm/s1600/sunrise+at+hinson+lake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8_azSRyRdDEs0ZKc8O1gA7OmChFSnllAbJ-yVK5nW_apnYueY2lwrbLSGOVkDXqdcCZd3ZBq2_0bBvvRt1w1X1-i0wUYi4FRkw4feKTZ5PRM9X1RUz9PA0_BvVFK9i7oCgJkR2NA5UHDm/s320/sunrise+at+hinson+lake.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBUmdOVQLC4u3b6QV7vyJEtA_IXp3pctgE3ajU6pRSPZV22yKoxWYlNGP4kMdtGMhdfLC8O63tfyWr54NXnYQyjitS1Y0ZDlsgsIbDnwNrIt5zdylNbBld02yIasG85NbbSKs3CZyrYN-Q/s1600/running+at+Hinson+with+Dena.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBUmdOVQLC4u3b6QV7vyJEtA_IXp3pctgE3ajU6pRSPZV22yKoxWYlNGP4kMdtGMhdfLC8O63tfyWr54NXnYQyjitS1Y0ZDlsgsIbDnwNrIt5zdylNbBld02yIasG85NbbSKs3CZyrYN-Q/s320/running+at+Hinson+with+Dena.jpg" width="267" /></a></span></div>
<span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Lucida Grande"; font-size: 13pt;"> I have to say, I smiled quite a bit. Even when I was feeling really tired. I cannot believe that your mind can tell your body what it can and cannot do. My mind was in a great place before and mostly during the race. I don't think I doubted my abilities more than a few times. One of the times I questioned my ability was when my right leg cramped up at 11:58pm quite a few times. I ingested 5 packets of mustard (talk about a cramp elixir!) and decided to get a massage. I had just finished over 76 miles so I knew I had already completed my personal best from last year (75 miles). I knew if I could get my leg to stop cramping so much, I could indeed get my 90 miles. I was focused, determined, and steadfast. I find the body such a fascinating machine. Last year I completed 75 miles around 7am in the morning. This time I had finished them a full 7 hours ahead of schedule. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Lucida Grande"; font-size: 13pt;">Anyhow, I stopped to stretch, roll, get a massage and eat some food for about an hour and a half. And then, like a miracle, I actually ran 6-7 laps continuously. Running! I cannot explain how that happened. I doubt I will ever know what triggered my desire to keep going. Although I did reach up and touch my Black Fellow Flower in my hair a number of times between 3-4:30am. </span><br />
<span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Lucida Grande"; font-size: 13pt;"> </span><br />
<span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Lucida Grande"; font-size: 13pt;">That is the thing about life. You never really know what you are capable of until you test yourself. Could I have completed a 100 miles? Probably, but that was not my goal. My goal was 90 and I basically did that last (61st) lap while waiting for my dear friends to come and pick me up to go home. I walked on all sides of my feet (a couple of fellow competitors said I looked like a drunk sailor walking) and slowly took in the realization that I had indeed succeeded what I had set out to do. I ended up 5th woman overall and 24th among 275 athletes. There was an impressive array of runners from all over who encouraged, smiled and made me happy to be right where I was. I stayed over 21 hours and was safely in my driveway when the race officially ended. I'm sleepy, but ecstatic.</span><br />
<span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Lucida Grande"; font-size: 13pt;">This race fills up quickly, so if you want to join in on the fun, check their website in January!</span><br />
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Health and Wellness on the runhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00970865652929893870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3088575399197773930.post-7518788692820835942013-09-26T14:40:00.002-07:002013-09-26T14:40:53.097-07:00The Little Engine That Could and Could Not! Hinson Lake Hear Me Roar!Well...I cannot believe it is already the end of September. Time has really flown. I've been quite the silent blogger of late. I plan to change that starting today :) I've been running quite a bit, but last week was the first week I have felt like the real me. Between the worst allergy season in North Carolina and this little thing called menopause, I've been battling just to get up in the morning and get through my workouts. This has left little time to try and somewhat write a cohesive blog, so now that I'm back; watch out!<br />
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I have been consistently running and I feel like my back/piriformis issues are very manageable these days. Hallelujah! I've been good at stretching and teaching a few yoga classes a week. Now that the humidity levels are starting to dissipate, I anticipate a good fall/winter of racing!<br />
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First race is in 2 days. Yup. 2 days. Hinson Lake 24 hour Ultra race. I couldn't be more excited than I am. It is currently Thursday afternoon and I am COMPLETELY packed for my race adventure (clothes, food, and probably too many other creature comforts). I think because I am completely packed I felt confident enough to actually sit down and write. Since I last blogged several other things have happened: My daughter, Mandi, bought a house and got engaged! We are thrilled beyond words at the exciting life she and Jordan have set up for themselves. Wedding date: June 7, 2014. This is will joyful time and energy spent. Another bit a news was not as thrilling, but we are beginning to see the positives; Dan lost his job almost 6 months ago and after the initial shock, great things have happened. Many have rallied around him and he has several things "in the works". I have enjoyed spending more time with him and LOVE having him around the house. We've been lucky enough to take quite a few mini-vacations; a wedding in St. Louis, hiking in the mountains, and some beach time.<br />
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Hinson Lake 24 hour Ultra is a new race for me. To be totally honest, if it weren't for some friends (Josh & Iris Sutcliffe) moving to the Pacific Northwest, I would not in the race at all. It sells out quickly. Yes, for you non-runners, there are other crazy people like me out there. Anyway, I am used to the Crooked Road 24 hour Ultra, so this is going to be even more exciting. Crooked Road has a .95 mile loop course and Hinson Lake has a 1.5 mile loop course. I am so excited to be running more than a mile per lap. It will definitely help my mental psyche. I am returning to Crooked Road in November for my third year in a row, and I'm excited to see all my ultra running friends I've made there.<br />
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What is my goal this year? Let's recap what I've done so far at Crooked Road: 56 miles in 2011, 75 miles in 2012. My goal at Hinson is a little lofty, but I am super focused. I am attempting 90 miles this year at Hinson Lake. Yes. I said it out loud to the universe. I believe in stating your intentions out loud and on paper. I am armed with the desire and determination to make it happen. Now I just need for Saturday 8am to get here. I will be posting in the late afternoon on Facebook (trying to save my cell phone battery in case I need to chat during the night with any friend who may be experiencing insomnia on Saturday night). I have several friends that go to bed really late at night, and several friends that wake up very early. I am hoping to bridge the gap with any insomniacs! Hint-Hint!<br />
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My dear friend, Dena, will be running it with me. She is just as crazy (and I feel that she's the crazier one) as me. She has declared some goals, but I don't want to speak for her. She is the one who chatted with me on the phone in the wee hours of the morning at Crooked Road last year. She was talking with me as I completed my 75 miles. I can't wait to help her get her mileage this year. She is an amazing runner and an even better friend. She is even nice enough to share her hubby as crew chief for us both. Blair is one of those people that makes you smile after spending <em>any</em> time with him. It's a good thing, because we will be spending LOTS of time together. My BFF Melissa is coming down to help out in the afternoon and I couldn't be more excited to share my passion for running with her.<br />
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I am bringing my new Hoka One One shoes and can't wait to try them out for the long haul. I have packed 4 pairs of shoes, but I'm hoping that the Hokas are it. We shall see. The temperature is not supposed to dip below 54 Saturday night, but the high will be 79. That's a little warm for running, but I will do my best to hydrate each loop. I will be armed with lots of fluid, Fellow Flower in my hair (black one), Marathon compression socks, and my Runningskirts skirt!<br />
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It feels great to be back writing, so I plan on setting aside some time each week to recap the running adventures I call life. Catch you on the other side of 90!<br />
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Get Real. Get Moving!<br />
CindyHealth and Wellness on the runhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00970865652929893870noreply@blogger.com0