Sandy Hook 5K race report.

Remember when I wrote about reflecting some light?

At the time, I didn't know what to do, could barely think about what to say about the tragedy in Sandy Hook. All I could think was that it was our responsibility -- everyone's responsibility -- to be a little better, to reflect some light into the darkness.

There have been countless examples of people doing just that -- helping others, doing anonymous good deeds.

And another: Groups of runners, running in honor of the lives lost and in support of the lives left behind.

All of those children. And those adults who were entrusted with their care. All of those lives.

Gone.

On Saturday, this group of women ran in honor of those lives:

We ran in my neighborhood, my hilly, hilly, hilly neighborhood. Yes, I think my friends cursed me a little as they were plugging away up my hills. But, hills make you stronger!

And, anyway, this race wasn't about time. It was about reflecting some light. And I am proud that I was part of it.

We ran the 5K as part of Sandy Hook Elementary Memorial Virtual Half Marathon and 5K. Awesome runner and blogger Beth Shaw created the event and it took off, with thousands of runners donating $20 to a dedicated United Way fund and running their miles for Sandy Hook.

Last I read, 2000 runners had registered. Go, runners!

It was a great morning with a special group of women, all running for good. 

I loved it.

Hope you had a great weekend!

~ Felice

Post marathon running.

There hasn't been a lot of it but the running I've done since the marathon last Sunday has all been good. I followed the marathon by taking Monday completely off and then ran an easy and slow 2 miler on Tuesday. No problems.

I knew that what my body needed most this week, though, was rest. So, I took Wednesday and Thursday off and ran again on Friday, basically repeating Monday's run. Yup, 2.1 whopping miles. Again, no problems.

And then --

After another rest day on Saturday, I met up with some of my fab running buddies for an 8 miler on Sunday. It was super! I felt great and was really happy to run with my friends Amanda, Tami, Karen and Melissa. We ran over hilly country roads where a donkey gave us a serious evil eye, the cows seemed indifferent to us and the horses looked at us like we were absurd to be running at 7 on a Sunday morning.

Mother's Day, no less.

But, honestly? What better way for a bunch of running mamas to start their Mother's day then with a run? No better way.

Karen, me, Melissa

Amanda and me

Today, I'm resting again and I will probably keep up an abbreviated running schedule for the rest of the week. After only running 12 miles last week, I might inch up to 20 or so this week and then I'll get back to normal. I'm happy that my body feels good.

What else have I done for recovery? For starters, I've rolled out my legs A TON, used the tennis ball on my hips and hammies to keep my ITB/hips/knee in check, and I've done a little easy stretching. I've also tried to eat well and drink a lot of water. I believe it is all working. A little easy running, a good bit of preventative rolling and healthy nutrition. That would be my marathon recovery plan.

Have to admit, it feels a little weird not gearing up for a race. But, I've got a 5K coming up on June 2nd and I'm sure I'll be gunning for a PR so I might as well enjoy these days of easy running while they last.

What do you do to enhance your post-race recovery?

Have a great week, everyone!

~ Felice

Give it up for the Strong Running Mamas!

Almost two years ago, early on in my second pregnancy, I started a running group to help non-runners become runners and train for a 5K. I've gushed about the group here and there and, honestly, it was a terrific experience. In celebration of their accomplishment, I made up some bracelets for them (and the other rocking mothers who helped with the group).

The bracelets said, "Strong Running Mama" on them because that's what those women had become.

A year later, I started a little Facebook group called Strong Running Mamas and the group has grown from the original dozen or so to almost 50!

These women rock! We support each other, run together, motivation one another -- it is awesome. I love it.

So, I had this idea. You know how people say that if you put something "out there" to the universe, it will happen?

Well, I asked each of the Strong Running Mamas to give me their numero uno goal for 2012 and they did. My idea? I'm going to put their goals "out there" and ask you all to support them as they work to achieve them. I figure, I put their goals "out there" for them, you guys wish them some luck, the universe responds and viola! the Strong Running Mamas accomplish their mighty awesome goals in 2012!


Should work, right?

YEAH!

So . . . the goals. Now, not all the Strong Running Mamas gave me their goals, but a bunch did. Please, friends, read these goals and help me give them some support!

(You can click on the image to enlarge it.)

Awesome running goals, huh?

Leave a comment, send me an email (I'll pass the love along), or just wish the Strong Running Mamas good luck in your mind (or out loud, if you prefer) -- whatever you want. Just help us get the good vibes going for their 2012 goals!

Throughout the year, I plan to check in and see how everyone is doing and I'll let you guys know how the Strong Running Mamas are progressing.

Thanks, friends. Your support will be greatly appreciated!

And, if you believe in karma, you're sure to get something in return ;-)

Have a great day, all!

~ Felice

A year.

Leave it to me to be reminded of an anniversary and then promptly forget to do anything about it.

Yesterday was the one year anniversary of my runners' first run! That's right: March 14, 2010 was the first group run, the day the 5k training began.

First group run -- March 14, 2010 -- new runners and some bloggy buddies!

What a difference a year makes.

A year ago I think the new runners all thought I was nuts and that there was no way they were going to really run a full 5k. Who was I kidding?

Apparently, I was not kidding them because I am happy to report they are still running. Those moms who started out skeptical became super strong running mamas. One year later, still running. And, if you'll indulge me, I'll share with you what they are all up to.

Janis (originally profiled HERE) ran a 31:09 in that first 5k and has gone on to run three more 5ks, two 10ks and she ran the 9.2 mile leg in the Winter Marathon Relay last month. She has a 27:50 5k PR and a 1:01:44 10k PR. Speedy times! Just as impressive, though, is that she is currently training for the 13.1 NYC half marathon in April. Janis is going to rock that race!

Bridget (profiled HERE) has shown remarkable dedication to her running. She posted a 32:47 in her first 5k and has since run five more 5ks, two 10ks, a 3.5-miler and the 5.7 mile leg of the relay with Janis. Bridget has a 5k PR of 28:46, a 10k PR of 1:04:17 and she is also training for the 13.1 NYC half marathon. I know it will be an impressive debut!

Jen M (profiled HERE) rocks one of my favorite mantras: Run your own race. That's what she does. Jen wanted to break 30 minutes in the 5k (after running a 33:18 in her first one) so she set out to do it. And do it she did. In December, she ran 29:40 after a few months of solid, diligent training. I can't wait to see how she does in her 2011 races!

Jen F (profiled HERE) crossed the line of her first 5k in 35:29 and has lowered her PR to 31:19. She ran a total of three 5ks in 2010 and a 10k. Now, she's looking to have a strong showing in this year's Freihofer's Run for Women, which was her first 5k last year. I have no doubt that she will do it!


Lisa trained for the 5k last year while also chasing after her very active toddler twins. She cruised over the finish line in 38:02 and then went and got pregnant with her third child! She'll be back, lacing up those running shoes after having her new baby, I just know it. And we'll all be ready to run with her!

The running group after the Freihofer's Run for Women.
Bridget is kneeling on the left.
Jen M., Janis, Jen F., and Lisa are standing to my right. 

Cheers to the no-longer-new runners! You've more than earned your moniker, ladies:

Strong Running Mama. No doubt.

Keep on running!

~ Felice

Yes, a run!

I wasn't sure how it would work out but my Friday walk/run did indeed turn into a run! All in all, I walked for almost .5 miles and ran for 2.6 miles, for a total distance of 3.1 miles. Again, I felt really, really good with my running pace hovering right around 9:50/mile.

On Saturday, my walk/run was primarily a walk with a very little bit of running tossed in and, yesterday I worked out with my exercise tv on demand pals because I felt like it. Plus it was raining and I wasn't into that.

Anyway, a solid weekend of workouts overall so I'm pleased!

I'm even more pleased to share that Bridget, Janis and Jen, who were all in my new runners group, threw down some solid times at the 5K on Saturday. They each ran PRs -- so awesome! It's just really cool to see them all sticking with running. They're addicts!

Hope you all had a great weekend. Mine was very productive and yet relaxing. I even managed to read The Help, which I highly recommend. It's a quick read so if you haven't read it and you have a little bit of time, check it out.

Happy Monday, everyone. Have a great week!

~ Felice

PS: My Jakfish giveaway ends tonight (pair of capris and a top). Don't miss it!

4.1.

Another milestone last night.

My friends, Bridget and Janis, who just started running in March are training for a 10K in October. They've run two great 5Ks and now they've set their sights on the longer distance. So, last night, they wanted to run a 4-miler -- their longest distance -- and asked me to run with them.

We set out around 8:20 and it was still about 85* and humid. We were sticky by the time we reached .25 miles. Yuck! As the miles ticked by, the sun set, the breeze picked up and the temperature dropped -- maybe a degree or two. Still hot but the humidity started to go away so it felt better.

By the end of the run, it was dark and we were a sweaty mess. Three hot (literally) mamas, 4.1 miles, one awesome run. It was the longest run that Bridget and Janis had ever done and they rocked it!

I know it was hard, and there were probably times when they felt like stopping. But I also know that they felt proud of themselves when they were done, as they should! I remember those feelings well: Struggling to extend my mileage and feeling totally burned out yet very accomplished at the end.

After the run, they made comments about not knowing how they'd get to the 6.2 miles but we talked about how they said the same type of thing when they were training for the 5K. They didn't think they'd be able to run 3.1 miles when they hadn't even run a full mile. And now, here they are running 4. Soon to be 4.5 and then 5 and then . . .

The funny thing (to me) about their training for this 10K is that it takes places 3 weeks after my due date. It feels weird to be talking about their race and how they will train and what the weather will be like and how they'll feel -- all while knowing that, at that time, my life is going to be so different. I may not yet be in post-preg running shape. I definitely won't be racing. Will I even be walking? Sleeping? Who knows!?! I may still be a hormonal mess, trying to just make it through the day.

Whatever, I'll be rooting for my pals on race day, whether in person or in spirit. Now, we've just got to stretch those 4.1 miles to 6.2! They can do it, I'm sure.

~ Felice

Mama miles.

Last night's run was exactly what I needed.

Earlier this week, a few of the girls from this spring's moms running group had posted on Facebook that they missed our group runs. So, I emailed them and set up a run for last night. Turns out, the best time for all of us to meet was after 8, so the 5 of us convened at Bridget's house at 8:15.

Although I've run after 8 several times this summer, I was nervous about last night. See, I've been having these pm contractions lately and I wasn't sure how they'd affect my run. Before you get all worried, let me tell you that they're perfectly normal. Just Braxton-Hicks contractions that occur throughout pregnancy but, this week, I've felt them stronger and they've mostly kicked in around 7:30 or 8 and have annoyed me until bedtime.

Before we headed out for our run, I told the girls I might need to walk depending on how the contractions were. Just a warning.

Running, apparently, chases the contractions away because there was no need for this preggo to walk. No, no, no. As soon as we settled in to the run, I felt great! I think my belly was in a constant contraction so it didn't have a chance to contract, un-contract, contract again. It just stayed firm and I was able to run without a care.

And the run was awesome. It was great to run with some of my best pals. We chatted about life stuff and running and had a good time in the cool late evening. We ran strong for 3.5 miles and then spent a little time drinking our water and chatting on Bridget's porch before we all went our separate ways, promising to keep up the group runs.

Had I not been running with my friends, I may not have run last night, I may have been "too tired" or "not feeling up to it." They carried me over that hurdle that often lies in the way of the first step of a great run. They got me out the door. Thanks, mamas!

Today was supposed to be a beach day. Big plans to meet lots of friends there, but the weather has decided not to cooperate. Oh, well. Not everything can go as well as last night's run!

Have a great weekend, everyone! Local runners participating in Silks & Satins: Good luck and have fun. Same goes for everyone racing this weekend!

~ Felice

Jaws Youth Fund Fitness Festival 5k race report.

Ah, vacation. Perfect time for a 5k race!

Yep, I'm away this week, basking in the sun (and lots of it!) at the Jersey shore. And on Sunday -- a hazy, hot, humid morning -- my friends (and vacation and running buddies) and I ran the Jaws Youth Fund Fitness Festival 5k. For Janis and Bridget, this was their second 5k and it marked their first in New Jersey. Two races, two states. I wonder if that'll be a trend . . .

The night before the race, Bridget, Janis and I talked about race goals. I had none other than to run the race with them. But they both wanted to run faster than they had at the Freihofer's Run for Women. So we talked times and settled on finishing in under 30 minutes. Janis had run her first 5k in just over 31 minutes and Bridget in just under 33 so it was a reachable goal.

Here we are before the race:

Bridget, me, Janis

The race started at 9, which seemed like it would be the perfect time for a summer race. But the weather was already super sunny and steamy by 8 and there was no shade whatsoever on the course so we pretty much dripped with sweat the whole race.

The race started with a goofy mascot race, and all 400 or so runners hanging around getting hotter, waiting for the gun to go off. I'm telling you, we were dripping before we even took our first step. Once we did, though, we settled into a nice pace. With the 30 minute goal in mind, I decided to keep the pace right around 9:35, which would give us a little wiggle room. I knew with the heat that it could be difficult but I also knew that the course was flat so I figured that would balance out the heat. And it did.

I have to say, it was great to run with my pals! Of course, I was slightly obsessive about checking my Garmin to make sure we were on pace but, other than that, it was fun. Here we are just past the half-way point:

Bridget, Janis, me -- happy runners!

Our husbands and kids were able to walk to the main street to cheer for us and it was a real treat to see them. Conal even got into the action, giving the runners the high-five:

I felt like we were all running strong through the whole race. With just about a half mile to go, Bridget took a quick walk break and Janis and I continued on. She ran tough, sprinting the last bit and finished in 29:34. I was right behind her in 29:35 and Bridget crossed the line in 30:37.

Awesome, right? I mean, second race ever and they pulled off 2 minute or so PRs! Yay! I couldn't have been prouder of my running mama pals!

After the race, we chowed down on some fresh berries and walked a mile back to the vacation house. It was a good cooldown and just an overall nice time for the three of us.

Since the race, we've been lying about on the beach and just fully enjoying our time away. Oh, and doing a little running. We ran on the beach on Tuesday and plan to go later today, although I think we're going to opt for the roads this time since the sand seemed to kick our butts!

Hope you're all having a great week!

~ Felice

PS: I have a $50 gift card giveaway going on over here. Don't miss it!

Freihofer's Run for Women race report.

OK, I told you all about how great the running group is and their special gift to me. Now I'll get on with the actual race report. First, here's a look at the crew (minus a few) before the race:

Darlene, Jen M, Melissa, Janis, me, Jen F, Bridget

And here I am sharing a hug with Conal:

(Yes, I'm wearing my "Running for Two" shirt!)

After the hug, I went to line up with 3500 or so other women. The race starts in front of the New York State Museum, on a two-lane avenue that thins out about a quarter mile in to the route. It gets super crowded there in the beginning!

I was fortunate to find a decent place to line up, more toward the front than I would have liked, in part because I had to pee right before the start so I was a little on the late side. No matter, I was where I was and I was just happy to be doing the race.

Since the day was so warm and humid, I'd more or less wiped my A goal (27 min or better) out of my mind and told myself to go out and run, but run comfortably. There was no need to push it and risk overheating.

So, when the gun went off, that's what I did. I ran. Soon enough, I had settled into a good pace and felt that I was running well. I passed the first mile in 8:59. Shortly after that was the first water stop and I slowed just a bit, grabbed a cup and drank on the run.

The second mile of the race winds through the south side of Albany's Washington Park and there are two sneaky uphills so it can be tricky. I continued to feel strong and I even found myself thanking the spectators for their exuberant cheers. Normally, I'm so focused on a specific pace that I am pushing and pushing and not paying attention to those nice people who shout encouragement to the runners. It was a nice change of pace (har, har) to appreciate the spectators!

I went through mile 2 in 17:47 and started to concentrate on running strong for the third mile. Of course, my mind couldn't help but start trying to do the math to see if I could finish under 27 minutes. I knew I would have to really push in order to make that happen and I also knew that I didn't feel like I should. As I said, it was hot and, well, at 5.5 months pregnant the heat isn't something you mess around with.

So, I ran on. When we turned out of the park on to Madison Ave, which marks the straightaway to the finish line, I felt myself pick up the pace a little. And once I hit the downhill to the finish, I poured it on.

Here I am, bringing it home:

I crossed the line in 27:28 -- so close to my A goal! My bib time, however, was 27:11 and I'll take it!

Race stats:

Net time: 27:11 (8:45/mi pace)
Mile 1: 8:59
Mile 2: 8:48
Mile 3: 8:28
Last .1: 1:23
Age group place: 64/421
Overall place: 668/3521

So, yay me. Getting it done for all the pregnant runners out there!

Now, how did my awesome new runners do? Um . . . they did GREAT! Man, oh, man. They really did. This was their first race and these mamas gave it their all and made me so proud! Here's how they finished:

Janis: 31:09
Bridget: 32:47
Jen M.: 33:18
Jen F.: 35:29
Lisa: 38:02

Great, right? The best part is that they looked so happy afterward and they are already talking about their next races! How cool is that?

One of the runners has run many races but has been trying to get back to running after having her baby (who is just 6-months old):

Melissa: 30:58

And then there were my super-duper running blogger buddies who helped out over the past three months, supporting the new runners, showing up at group runs and generally being good friends and runners:

Darlene: 30:39
Suzy: 30:53
Amanda: 31:06

Everyone did SO WELL! I mean, check us out:

Melissa, Amanda, Darlene, me, Jen M, Janis, Jen F, Lisa
Bridget, Suzy (kneeling)

Those are some happy runners :-)

After the race we hung out a bit and chatted and hugged and cried and did all that fun stuff. Then, it was time for the kids' run. This was Conal's first race and it was a quick 50m. Since he's just in the little guy category, I had to run with him.

See the tongue in the corner of his mouth? That kid is focused! He loved running the race, almost as much as I did.

Once we got home, it was time to kick things in to high gear to finish preparing for an afternoon birthday celebration for Conal (and me). We had a house and backyard full of almost 60 people and I, insane woman that I am, was making pretty much all the food. Fortunately, I'd done most everything on Friday so Saturday was just the final touches. The party was great fun and even though I forgot to put out one of the chicken dishes I had made, I think everything went well. At least everyone let me think it did ;-)

Do you think I was wiped out on Sunday? Sure was! It was all worth it.

Have a great day, everyone!

~ Felice

PS: Have you entered my two giveaways over here?

The awesomeness of runners.

Saturday was The Race: The Freihofer's Run for Women, which "my runners" had been working toward for the past three months. It was awesome. Even more, I saw again the hard-core awesomeness of runners.

But first, the expo.

On Friday, I met up with four of the new runners and fellow running blogger, Suzy, to get our shirts, bibs and box o' chocolate chip cookies! Makes it all worth it . . .

With Suzy just before heading over to the cookie table.

With new runners Bridget and Jen M.

I have to admit it was a little exciting watching everyone get their first bibs! Bibs in hand, we picked up our cookies and then headed off to shop. Suzy and Jen F. picked up some cute Bondi Bands and I kept my wallet in my bag, although there were plenty of cute things I could have purchased.

And then it was race day.

Hot and humid, but no rain. The forecast had been iffy so the no rain thing was big. The group met ahead of time for a pre-race photo and what was supposed to be my last pep talk. I didn't have it in me. Folks, I don't know if I've said this before but I'm a crier. Oh, yeah. Total crier. Sobby McCrierson. Add in some pregnancy hormones and, sheesh, I turn into a weeper.

So, I skipped my talk. I knew I wouldn't be able to get the words out without getting choked up so, instead, I simply gathered the runners, wished them good luck and gave them each one of these:


I'd had these bracelets made about a month ago and couldn't wait to hand them out! They say, "Strong Running Mama" on them because each of the runners are just that: Strong running mamas! Hard working, tough, getting-it-done women.

So, off we went to race and everyone did great but you'll have to wait until tomorrow when I post my race report to learn more about it. Sorry!

For now, I want to talk about this:


After the race, we lined up to take a group shot and the runners presented me with a gift bag. As soon as I pulled the book out, I teared up (Sobby McCrierson, remember?). If I was teary just looking at the cover, when I opened the book I was full-on crying:


The girls had made a beautiful book celebrating the running group and our journey together. It's full of pictures from our group runs and some of me running various races over the past years. They also put in a bunch of my favorite quotations and even some things that I've written on this blog.

I had to wait until I was home to look at it for real because I was simply too emotional right after the race to view it without sobbing.

It's just a wonderful, special gift. I love it. Love the photos, love the quotes but most of all I love the sentiment behind it:

Awesome. Runners are awesome. And I couldn't be happier to have had a small part in turning a few great women into awesome runners.

Jeez, I'm getting teary just writing about it! I had no idea what I was getting into when I decided to start this running group a little over three months ago. I thought it would be fun, for sure, but I didn't realize how much I would get out of the group. I didn't realize that simply by trying to share my love for running with a group of non-runners, my appreciation for that most basic human activity of moving forward would grow. And I really had no way of knowing how much the new runners would come to love running. I'm happy they do. I'm proud of what they've accomplished. I'm glad I was part of it!

Now, before I cry again, I'll sign off. But I'll be back tomorrow with my race report so you can find out how well all these awesome runners did in their first race!

Thanks for reading!

~ Felice

Running group update.

I haven't written about my running group lately but that doesn't mean they haven't been busy! For my first go at "training" a group of new runners, I think things have gone fairly well. We're less than two weeks from the big race so I thought I would share how the group has been doing.

We started out with a larger group and a few people dropped out along the way so going into the race on June 5th we have five new runners, one runner getting back into it after having a baby and my three key blogger buddies who've been awesome cheerleaders, supporters and running pals along the way.

First group run

The new runners are all moms of two kids, with the exception of Jen M., who has three. The fact that these women have successfully committed to making running part of their lives, while juggling the responsibilities of having all those kids -- never mind all the other stuff they have to do -- is proof that if you decide you want to do something, you can do it.

Chilly group run

"My runners" (as I often refer to them, you know, in my mind) started out 11 weeks ago, barely able to run for 5 minutes and now they are all regularly running 2+ miles and have covered more. A week and a half ago, they ran the 3.1-mile race course, so I know they can go the distance!

Since mid-March, I've made weekly plans for each of them and they've all done their best to run according to what I have laid out. They've dealt with twinges and tweaks in their muscles and joints and we've worked through them.

Before running the race course

This week and next are mini-tapers and then they'll be set for the race. Personally, I can't wait. I can't wait to see the looks on their faces when they cross the finish line!

If you want to read more about any of "my runners" -- ha! -- I profiled each of them for a series of articles here: New Runner Profiles.

Have a good day -- it's going to be in the 90s here, we'll be outdoors but trying to stay cool!

~ Felice

Practice run.

This afternoon was the big "run the course" run for my running group. The idea was to meet at the starting line of the 5K, walk the first quarter mile to warm up, and then run the rest of the course. For my new runners, this would be their longest run ever. It was a big deal!

We lucked out with perfect weather. And we lucked out because all of the new runners were able to make it. I really wanted everyone to have a chance to get a feel for the course and run the distance as a group so I was happy when I learned everyone could make it!

So, how did they do? In a word: Awesome. Really! We walked the warm up and then we were off and running. I pointed out water stops and where each kilometer and mile marker will be. Since Darlene was able to join us, she and I shared some tips and information that I hope will make the race less intimidating and more just plain fun for everyone.

One of the best parts for me was when we passed the 3 mile mark and were heading toward what will be the finish line, two of the new runners just took off and sped to the end! Even though it was a practice run, they felt it! They had the itch to let their legs fly and off they went. It was very, very cool.

For the most part, the runners finished the 3.1 miles in about 36 minutes. I'm so proud of them all.

Here's the group post-run:

Janis, Jen M., me, Jen F., Bridget, Lisa, Darlene

Two things about the picture: 1) That's the New York State Capitol building behind us (it's an incredible building) and 2) Check out my belly! I've popped out so much in the past two weeks :-)

In other news, I find out the sex of my baby Monday morning. Couldn't be more excited!

Hope you all had a great weekend!

~ Felice

PS: The Subway gift card giveaway ends Monday at 11:59pm EST. Don't forget to enter!

Hips?

Now that I jumped over the pee discussion hurdle, I feel like I could write about anything :-) But, don't worry, I won't do any grossing-out just yet. Although, maybe someday I'll share my most embarrassing running pee story.

Maybe . . .

For now, I'll get back to the same old, same old. I'm once again behind: Two deadlines this week (one already met, the other tomorrow) means that my cupboards are once again bare and the unread posts in my google reader are once again piling up. Add in some injured runners to assist, a son who was up puking (slipped into gross-out, sorry!) last night, a much overdue 2.5 hour trip to the salon for a cut and color and, man! I'm behind.

I need a run!

Fingers crossed for this evening.

So, anyway, I have a question for you: Have any of you ever had a hip injury at the front of your hip? Actually, a little higher than the hip. One of the runners in the new runner group is struggling with that. Everything she's described sounds like ITBS, except that it is more in the front. Her sister thinks it is trochanteric bursitis. Could be either, could be something else. I've given her a reduced schedule this week -- lots of rest -- along with some stretches and strengthening exercises, and she's taking ibuprofen and icing the area. The plan is that if she doesn't see some improvement this week, she'll make an appointment to see a doctor.

If you have any thoughts, please let me know! Thanks!

Now, I'm off to catch up and look forward to this evening's run. Have a great day!

~ Felice

PS: The Subway giftcard giveaway is still going on over here!
And, I posted a milk review and contest info here.

Spastic group run (with bonus post-run pic!).

First, let me send you all a HUGE thanks for your kind comments and emails about the whole hospital/croup episode. I appreciate it all. Conal is MUCH better and he should be back to normal by the end of the week.

Now, about last night's spastic group run.

It was a big night because the plan was for the runners to run their first continuous mile. Their longest run!

Anyway, we planned to meet at 6 and run on a path that follows the river. I sent directions to a parking lot next to the boat launch, not realizing that there was another parking lot just south of that one. So, of course, at 6 there were three of us at the boat launch lot, waiting for two others. I checked my cell phone -- no messages. We waited. We walked on to the path and looked around but the others weren't there.

At 6:10, I put a note on my windshield and we headed off. I was running with Bridget and Janis and we had a bit of a time crunch because Bridget had to get home by 7. So, we couldn't wait any longer.

We walked for a quarter mile and then took off for the mile. Janis and Bridget did great! I know it was hard, but they stuck with it and finished the mile in about 10:45. Really good, right? We followed the run with a quarter mile walk and then the plan was to run a half mile, walk a quarter, run a half and cool down. Bridget, feeling peppy, suggested we just run another full mile, instead of two halves. Janis was game so that's what we did.

At .95, we ran into Jen and Lisa (the other two runners who were supposed to meet us) walking toward us. They had gone to the other parking lot! Well, since Janis and Bridget were almost done with their second mile, I sent them on their way to cool down and told Lisa and Jen I would run with them.

They had already walked more than a quarter mile so we took off for the mile. Lisa ran a little over a half mile and I continued on with Jen, who pulled out the whole mile! Then we walked, met up with Lisa and finished the plan (.5 run, .25 walk, .5 run, cool down). Since Jen is my speedster, I encouraged her to run ahead at her pace for the two half miles. I stayed with Lisa for most of each interval, and then sped up to catch Jen and tell her when to slow to a walk. It was nice knowing this pregnant runner could still pull out some speed :-)

Here we are post-run:

That's me looking like I have the biggest head in the world, with Jen and Lisa. Way to go, happy runners!

All in all, my gals did AWESOME!!! I only wish they had a less spastic "coach" who would have been more clear about the directions. We'll know better for next time. The path is a nice one, running along the river, which, last night, was full of rowers:

I'm sure we'll check it out again sometime.

Have a great day, everyone. It is chilly and windy here in upstate New York -- hope it is nicer by you :-)

~ Felice

Full and fun.

Warm spring weeks rule. They're just the best!

Between packing in work (I finished four chapters on my book project -- I'm rolling!), running alone, running with friends (another fun run last night, this time with Bridget!), a girls night out (woo hoo!), laundry, cleaning, etc., etc., this week was also prime-time for . . .

picnics in the driveway . . .

goofing around . . .

mowing the lawn . . .

gardening . . .

and the always fun trick of running away from Mom!

What a fun week! Conal loves being outside and can you blame him? The sunshine, the fresh air . . . it feels wonderful.

We're off to the park today for some play with friends and then to Columbia U tomorrow to watch a niece play one of her last college lacrosse games. Go, Delia! And, without fail, I will be sending tons of good running vibes to my running pal Amanda, who is running the More Half-marathon in NYC (her 2nd half in five weeks). Go, Amanda!

I also hope to have time for one more run this week. That would be the icing on the cake.

Have a great weekend, everyone!

~ Felice

From in to out.

Yesterday, I took a new runner off the treadmill and in to the great outdoors. Sure, it was a suburban park but it was outdoors nevertheless.

Jen M., one of the new runners in my running group, had never run anywhere but on the treadmill. She's been training well, but hasn't been able to make any of our group runs yet. With the race about a month and a half away, she was getting a little nervous about being able to make the transition from inside to out. I told her I would run with her so she could get at least one run under her belt.

So, we met for a run yesterday evening, although I have to admit that I did sneak in a quick run on my own before Jen arrived. I had too!

Anyway, Jen arrived and she told me she was nervous. Nervous about running outdoors and running the distance (I had her running 3/4mile (x2) and 1/2mile, with 1/4mile walks in between -- her longest distance). Don't be too nervous, I told her, you can do it!

We got her pumped up:

I'm not going to die. No, you're not going to die.
I'm not going to throw up. No, you're not going to throw up.
I can do this. Yes, you can do this!!!

And with that, we headed off.

Jen did great. We started with a quarter mile walk and then ran for 3/4 of a mile. I slowed Jen down a little at the start but she still settled into a solid, brisk pace. Faster than I thought she would run. She was running strong and her form was good so on we went. After the run interval, we walked for a quarter mile and then it was back to the run. Again, Jen held a solid pace of under 10-min/mile. We walked again and then ran the final, half-mile interval. She was pretty much done by the end of that interval, but that was OK because, well, she was done!

It was a successful first outdoor run for my newbie runner. Our full run/walk was 3.11miles in about 36 minutes. Yay!

After the run, we cleaned up just a bit and headed out to meet some other friends for our monthly girls night out. Yes, we were sweaty. But the run was worth it and no one seemed to mind. Or, at least, they were nice to us and didn't say anything :-)

Have a great day!

~ Felice

Ah, Monday.

After a great weekend, I'm back to reality this morning. Babysitting, meeting, work, play with the kid, etc., etc. I am hoping to sneak in some Boston marathon watching, too, but who knows if that will happen.

Good luck to everyone racing!

I'm also hoping to get a little more running in this week than last. Don't know exactly what happened but I only ran 13 miles last week. Yikes! I guess I needed to take it easy. Anyway, tomorrow I am running with a friend from the running group who has never run outdoors before. She's been cranking on her treadmill runs and I hope the outdoor run goes as well.

Well, that's it. Just a quickie today. Have a great day and week, everyone!

~ Felice

PS: Today is the last day to enter the sports bra giveaway!
And don't forget about the spa package, too!

Six weekend miles.

I had big running plans for this weekend but the plans changed. A much, much needed nap won out over the run on Saturday. I felt a little wimpy but I gotta tell you, I really needed that nap more than I needed the run. So, Saturday's planned miles were not to be.

Sunday was the group run and, unfortunately, most of the members couldn't make it. We had a strong group of four, though, who all got out there and enjoyed some sunny -- if a little windy -- miles. Suzy and Darlene ran together and I lead Jen on a run/walk (Jen is one of the moms who just started running 4 weeks ago).

Since I was doing a 3-mile run/walk, I got to the park early and ran 3 miles before meeting the group so I could get in a total of 6 miles for the day. I'm glad I did because I feel it is still important for me to extend my distance and breaking it into two runs actually works well.

Out on the run/walk with Jen, I feel like I had a true "coaching" moment. I recognized that Jen was pushing her pace both during the warm-up walk and in the first running interval. So I slowed her down and we talked about why starting slowly is important and she had a much better run than she had anticipated. In fact, because I had put 5 minute running intervals on her schedule, she'd been a little nervous at the start and wasn't expecting success. But she got it! She ran the entire plan and, at the end said, "I didn't feel like I was going to die!"

And that's a good thing :-)

Here we all are post-run:

Jen, me, Suzy, Darlene

You can totally see that I am going to need some maternity gear really soon!

Speaking of gear, I have a sports bra giveaway going on here. (A new, larger sports bra is the one thing I've already moved onto.) Go check it out!

Recaps of the running group and March miles sort.

After postponing for one day due to the cruddy weather, the running group got together last night and they all did great. Two women headed off to run together (yay Melissa and Darlene!) and I lead the other four in a run/walk.

I really pushed them last night. Not in a bad way (I don't think!) but I definitely asked them to push themselves a little harder than they had been. For starters, these new runners have been, for the most part, logging all of their miles on flat treadmills. Last night, we ran outdoors in a neighborhood that was deceptively hilly. They've been building up to 3 minutes of walking, alternated with 1 or 2 minutes of walking. Last night, I had them run a pyramid: They ran for 1, 2, 3, 4, 4, 3, 2, 1 minutes, with 1 minute of walking in between each running interval.

While there is a good chance they were cursing my name most of the time, in just shy of 40 minutes these mamas covered 2.85 miles. They did it. They ran. They pushed on through. They got it done. And they should feel very proud of themselves!

* * *

It's been a while since I posted a monthly update. In fact, my last was November. And if you're wondering, December, January and February were light. Done. March was a little better, although not much.

On to the stats . . .

March stats

Running (miles): 61.5
Cross-training (sessions): 3

Wow. Look at me go. But, you know what? My goal at the start of my pregnancy was to see if I could run about 15-20 miles a week and that's what my March miles work out to. So, I'm pleased about that. As long as I'm feeling good while I run I'm happy!

Happy April, everyone!

~ Felice

PS: Don't forget to enter my Run Like a Mother giveaway!

Stop and go.

The rainy, windy, raw weather put the kibosh on this evening's scheduled group run. Boo! Hiss! But, we're rescheduling for tomorrow and I really hope most of the runners can still make it. The weather is supposed to be much nicer and more conducive to a fun group run tomorrow.

In other news . . .

I posted a review and giveaway over at my other site. It's for Run Like a Mother, the new book by Dimity McDowell and Sarah Bowen Shea. Great book. I suggest to head on over and enter the giveaway right now! You want this book -- for you or the running mama in your life!

And still more, less exciting, news . . .

I had a really good doctor's appointment this morning. Yay! Since my mom was watching my son, I extended my outing and ran some errands, which included a trip to the grocery store. Not a good idea. I was in a different (and, I guess, wealthier) area and the prices in the store were insane. Yes, the store was lovely. They had some items that my local Hannaford does not carry. But, why were the avocados so pricey? And did the yogurt -- the same Stonyfield Farms yogurt I always buy -- have to be that expensive? Yikes-ola. Glad I don't shop there regularly.

That's it! That's all I've got!

Except for this: VOTE FOR fellow running, blogging mama AMANDA!!!!

Thanks!

~ Felice