Race Report: Brazen Mt. Diablo Trail Half

No, you're eyes are not mistaken, this is a race report from a half marathon.  After last week's Shamrockin' Half PR, I was advised my many people that if my sights are truly set on running a great race in Eugene, it was probably wise for me NOT to do the 50K.  Sure, I've been training like crazy to cross the finish line of my first ultra, but I have my sights on running a huge PR in just six weeks, and doing what I don't normally do, I listened to those around me who know best and decided to sit it out.  It was a hard decision to make, but as soon as I made it, I knew that I had made the right choice.  A huge weight was lifted off of me - I made a decision that I was actually o.k. with.

Thankfully, my heart was even more settled with my decision when the weather report for race day had 100% chance of rain.  The thought of running 31+ miles in the mud and rain did not appeal to me, and now hindsight is glorious, because as you will see, the mountain was not good to us that day my friends.

I had the pleasure of joining my buddy Punky for the Mt. Diablo challenge.  Just a week out from his first 50K, Punky was also signed up for the half.  As we drove to the start together, it was pouring rain.  Both of us second guessed our sanity as we arrived at the starting area to a giant, muddy mess.  Thankfully though, Brazen always puts on a good show and we knew that no matter what the day held, we were in for a real treat.

I'm of the thinking that ignorance is bliss.  This may or may not have come back to bite me in the butt on more than one occasion, and Saturday was one of those days.  I had studied the elevation and maps in detail for the 50K, but as soon as I downgraded to the half, I thought anything else would be a piece of cake!  Yeah, mistake #1 of the day - I should have looked.  I had no idea what was in store for me - actually, if I had, I probably wouldn't have even started!

As we stood at the start line, Punky urged me (once again) to go to the front and attempt for a podium spot.  I wasn't eyeing the competition too much, but I was ready to run.  In all reality though, I just wanted to finish in one piece - I didn't want to trash my legs too much since I still had a long run to do for the weekend.  But, like true "Katie" fashion, when the gun went off I didn't think twice and began running with the front running men.

Right away the trail was a muddy mess, but I soon learned that if I followed where the men in front of me ran, I would at least know where the sure footing was.  We were slip-sliding right away and a muddy mess within a half mile.  And as luck would have it, it began to pour even harder as we ran.

I don't remember too much from the race itself - I was in full on survival mode.  Every step I took felt like I was going to slip and fall on my face.  And so the race went on, I followed the three men in front of me and we soon became a band of brothers as we attempted to survive one of the most difficult trail courses I have ever ran.  The mud was relentless, it stuck like clay to the bottom of your shoes, making it feel like your feet were an extra 5 pounds heavy!  I often found running on the side of the trail in the grass was the best place for footing, but I soon found out around mile 6 as we were on the back of the mountain that it was not necessarily the best place to be.  A giant gust came up at one point and slammed me into the side of the mountain!  I couldn't believe I was running in such conditions!  Who does this? FOR FUN?  I had many low moments out there, times I just wanted to sit down and cry, but I kept pushing forward.  Of the three guys I was running with,Tim, knew the course like the back of his hand.  He kept us up to date on what to expect next.  These guys were like mountain goats going up the hills, I did all I could to stay with them. 

At around mile 8 and the final aid station, the guys all stopped for some liquids but I decided to keep going.  Not to beat them necessarily, but because I was afraid if I stopped, I wouldn't start again.  Mistake #2 of the day - I should have stayed with them.  As I ran by myself, it was hailing - sideways.  At one turn in the course I saw a guy up ahead climbing up yet another mountain, so I followed him.  Mistake #3 of the day - not every runner goes the right way.  Turns out I had missed a turn, but thankfully Tim saw me in the distance and stopped to yell at me!  I ran a 1/2 mile out of my way!  My only saving grace was that it meant I got to start the decent and FINALLY start going downhill.

The final 3 miles were all downhill and I wanted nothing more than to be done.  I knew I was doing pretty good on time as I caught up with the guys again and even passed one - my final three miles were all sub 7!  I flew down the hills, ran straight through all the rivers and finally crossed the finish line in 2:12:46 - FIRST PLACE FEMALE!  I couldn't believe it!  The entire time I was running, I had no thought of coming in first or even placing.  I was so focused on just surviving I hadn't even stopped to notice that there were no other chic's around me.  Crossing the finish line first, made it that much more sweeter to be done!
Garmin stats: 13.70 miles (1/2 mile out of my way + long course)
2:12:47 - 9:41/mi pace
Official stats: 13.1 miles
2:12:46 - 10:08/mi pace
1st Female overall, 1st AG
5th overall/94

When I crossed the finish line just a few seconds behind the guys, Tim gave me a big hug!  I was so grateful to him!  I owed him big and the rest of the guys.  We tackled that mountain together and without them I don't think I would have done as well.  It was a hard, challenging day, filled with some low points and some highs. 

I also got to hang out with my buddy Ann who had ran the 10K.  She did awesome too, and together we waited for Punky to cross the finish line (mistake #3 1/2 for the day - always take the keys if you plan on finishing first - just sayin')

Finally crossing the finish line!

My buddy Ann & me - thanks for waiting Ann!

Thanking Tim for saving me!!

My running buddies and me for the day ;)

I'm so glad I ran this - I learned a lot from the day.  I was more than physically challenged, I was mentally challenged.  There were a few points during the race where I just wanted to sit down and cry in the fetal position.  But again, I ran an awesome course, with some awesome people and got to hang out with some pretty badass trail runners.  Thanks Sam and Brazen for putting on a great day in not so great conditions.

After I got home for the day I decided my legs needed some easy miles, so I jumped on the hamsterwheel and made it an even 22 for the day.  My legs really liked the easy pace and soft surface and I got off feeling a ton better.  Ann warned me though, that my legs might not feel so great the next day - and boy was she right.  I had 20 scheduled for the day on Sunday and with the weather crappy again, I hit the treadmill.  I lasted 14 miserable miles before I called it a session.  I was disappointed that I was feeling like garbage, but decided to leave the run behind me and went and hung with my family for a few hours.  When I got home later that afternoon the treadmill was calling my name again, and I jumped back on.  Thankfully, my legs once again felt good.  I ran another six and called it day.  That was a run I really needed - both for my legs and head.

The streak, as you can see, is still going strong.  I finished off the week with 117 miles, my 4th week in a row of 100+ miles.  My legs are really thriving on the high mileage, and I actually can't see an end in sight any time soon.  I'm still doing double days, an easy run in the morning, followed by an evening run with some speed work.  Today was day 74, I ran 20 miles, my 3rd day in a row of 20+ miles and my legs felt awesome.  I split the runs up, 10 each, and felt like I finally had my legs and spirit back.

I have my sights set high for Eugene in May.  I am working towards a really big PR, but more than anything, I want to hit the start line fresh and as prepared as I can be.  Thank you to all of you for all the kind words from last weekend's half - it was a surprise but I can finally say all these crazy miles and training are finally amounting to something.

Congrats to all of you who raced this weekend, especially my running twin Denise who had a huge PR at her marathon, and to all my buddies who survived the LA Marathon this weekend - that was a wet & crazy race!  And thank you to all of my new followers!  Leave me a comment so I know who you are and can thank you!  It is all of you that keep me coming back ;)

I'm off to catch up with all of you!
Happy Monday (evening) & Happy Running!

What...A Weekend! Race Report(s): Shamrockin' Half Marathon & Spectator Report - Way Too Cool 50K

Where to start, where to START?!?  This past weekend was filled with racing...once again.  I know that I had informed all of you that I had planned on running my first 50K this weekend at the Way Too Cool 50K, as my friend Stacey had offered to let me use her bib.  I had emailed the race director a few weeks ago and she informed that bib swapping was not ok, and if either of us tried anything funny, we would BOTH be BANNED from any future races.  Well, with that piece of information, we both thought it wise to ditch that idea and for me to find a new 50K of my own.  Being banned from the #1 50K in the country was NOT something either of us wanted, and really, in the end, I wanted my name to be on the official finisher's list, not my friend's.  Luckily, next weekend is the Brazen Mt. Diablo 50K challenge so I have signed up for this and am sooo excited to be apart of that race, as Brazen Racing holds a special place in my heart.

So, without further adu, my spectator's report from WTC on Saturday & my own race report from Sunday's Shamrockin' Half Marathon.  Grab yourself a drink, this might be long - sorry!!!

Even though I wasn't racing the 50K, I decided to still go and cheer on my buddy Punky for his first ever ultra trail run.  I was honored to be apart of his first 50K and be the support crew that is so essential to runners when they take on the awesome challenge of an ultra run.  Friday I headed up to Sacramento to stay with my family so that it would be an easier drive to the early start on Saturday morning.  I got to hang out with my favorite 8 year old nephew, get a run in, stuff my face with quesadilla's and make some tasty banana muffins for Saturday - a perfect way to start out a fun weekend.

I got to bed a little late on Friday night, and soon my alarm was going off at 4:30.  Punky and I made plans to have me drive him to the race, as it was easily predicted that he probably wouldn't be in any shape to drive home after the ultra.  So right on time, at 5:15 a.m. Punky was at my door step and we headed off into the dark morning to beautiful Cool, CA.  Yes, you read that right - the town was called Cool.  Just off highway 49 in gold country, it was the most perfect and beautiful setting for a fun, challenging race.  Punky seemed calm and collected, but he later informed me he was more like a duck sitting on top of the water, all calm, but below the surface his little feet and heart were going a mile a minute.  I am sure this is what everyone feels when they are on the brink of tackling 31 challenging miles. 

We arrived with plenty of time to check in and begin the process of gearing up for a 31 mile run.  The race officials did an awesome job in organizing everything.  The whole race area was decked out in fun frog theme decorations, including a giant 10 foot blown up frog that greeted you as you entered the parking area.  One thing I did notice: ultra runners are their own breed.  They just "look" & "act" different than your average road runner.  Their clothes are little more flashy, they are calm and collected looking forward to the day's challenge, and they consume lots of food and water while waiting for the race to start.  I also noticed, most every car had a sticker of some sort of past race on their bumpers or window, showing the world that they are inducted into the world of ultras.  Also, there were lots & lots & lots & lots of Subaru's - take from that what you like ;)

What...have I gotten myself into?!?

Pretty soon it was time to send Punky off to the starting line.  If you don't know Punky, he's kind-of a "celebrity" in the running world.  I have yet to attend a race with him where no less than 5 people come up and say "hey", either personally knowing him or having known him from his blog.  I guess I was in the presence of someone great, or at least someone who is good at personal P.R. ;)  The whole vibe at the start line of the beginning of the race was of excitement - but a different kind-of excitement than at the start of a road race.  Everyone had confidence, everyone had a smile on their face, and most everyone was ready with a kind word for their fellow ultra runner - not the typical game face that you can encounter in the start corrals of competitive road running.  I actually liked it a lot and made me excited for my very own experience into the ultra running world next week.  I snapped a few pics of Punky with his friend Rachel who was also tackling her first 50K and soon the gun went off and I said good bye to Punky.  I was a little sad for a second that I was on the spectator's side and not joining him, but soon enough I was filled with excitement for him - he was finally taking the challenge of becoming an ultra runner ;)

Waiting for the start - his friend Rachel is in the blue ;)

And...their off!!

My plan for the day was to hang out with the other spectator's, get a run in, and then when it got close to his predicted finish time, I would run out to the end of the race and try to meet him around mile 27 or 28 and pace him back to the finish.  I soon found out though, that I would have the opportunity to see him on a loop back at mile 8, so I gathered around the aid station and waited and cheered as fellow runners came in.  I think the first runner came in right around 50 mins - smokin' time!  And pretty soon I got to see Punky, looking strong!  I was so excited to see him, check in with him and send him on to the next 23 miles.  The good news was, he had a giant smile on his face and looked like he was enjoying the whole thing and soaking it all up.

Punky looking strong coming in at mile 8

After I saw Punky and sent him on his way, I headed back to my car to get my own run on.  Cool, CA is not very big, and it has the major highway 49 running right through it.  There isn't much to it, and if you blinked you would probably miss it as you drove by.  But none the less, I laced up and headed out to the road.  Within a half mile of running on a two-lane road though, it became clear to me (thanks to the many angry looks of driver's passing me) that running there was not an option, so I turned back a bit deflated.  How was I going to RUN?  A bit of panic set in as I walked back to my car.  I had 7 hours to kill and couldn't run?  What would I do?  But then, God sent me a sign, I looked into the "shopping" center right next to the race area that held the local liquor store, pizza parlor...AND there was a GYM!  WHOO HOO!  I was saved!  I ran right over to the gym and asked them if I could buy a day's membership and they more than happily said yes!  So, for $8 (the BEST $8 I have ever spent) they let me run on one of the TWO treadmills they had.  It was a cute little gym, nice and clean and even had a TV.  So for an hour I ran on the hamsterwheel, knocking out another 9 miles and looking out the window at the beautiful Golden hills of California and wishing Punky all the best for the day.

The "gym" that saved the day!

I didn't want to run too much though, as I knew I would still be pacing Punky later and...I had a little race of my own the next day.  So after 9 miles + that mile from earlier, I called it a day and went back to my car, ate some lunch and got ready to hit up the finish line and cheer Punky and some friends in.  Sam, the race director from Brazen was also out there running today and he was hoping for a sub 5.  With just over 4:45 into the race, and the winner's already crowned (the first male came in at 3:20!!) I began cheering for all the racers.  Cheering is so much fun, and not something I get to do very often since I'm usually the one racing.  It is such an honor to see someone cross the finish line of their first or 100th ultra.  My voice was almost horse from screaming and clapping my heart out - such an awesome and humbling experience.  Soon Sam came in looking strong and I got to pick his brain about what I should do with pacing Punky.  He told me the course was muddy and a bit difficult, but I should head out soon and begin looking for him.  I got my trail shoes on and began heading up the course backwards.  I stopped often because the course was single track and I didn't want to get in the way of the runners.  I also loved stopping to cheer, as they were all so grateful to finally see a smiling face after running 6+ hours.  It took me just under an hour to go 3 miles, and pretty soon I found Punky.  He was looking tired, but I do believe that is to be expected with you have been running that long.  He was just as happy to see me, too.  I won't share his story here, you'll have to cruise on over to his blog to share that experience with him, but let's just say it was good I came when I did.  It was fun to walk and run with him, keep him motivated and cheer him on to the finish of his first ultra - a true honor.  It took us about an hour to get back and when he got to the finish line it was so awesome to finally be able to call him an ultra runner ;)

Getting Punky to the finish!!

The race organizers did a fantastic job with everything at the finish line.  Everyone was helpful, encouraging and they even handed out little cupcakes with frogs made out of icing.  You can bet Punky ate a few of those!  After chatting with a few fellow runners and congratulating some peeps, we made our way home.  Punky did fantastic!!  He ran strong and smart and I am so lucky he did this BEFORE me, now I can pick his brain for my own this Saturday ;)  Congrats Punky for an awesome day on Saturday - you did amazing!  I'm so lucky (and honored) I got to share the experience with you and can't wait to see what's next!

We got home around 4:30 and I was lucky enough to stay with my sister once again.  She had a big dinner of spaghetti and salad waiting for me to carb load for my own race the next day.  My good friend Layla also came to stay with me and my sister as she was running the race the next day, too.  We got to chat and fill our bellies with pasta and soon enough it was time to hit the sack and prep for our own race.  Thanks (or no thanks) to day-light savings time, we were loosing an hour of sleep that night, and once again the alarm went off at 4:30 (I felt like I was in that movie Groundhog day!). 

When I got up that morning, I.was.exhausted.  I felt like garbage, and I questioned my sanity as I got ready.  I had no idea what the day would hold, I was really just hoping to get the monkey off my back that was qualifying for New York - sub 1:37.  When I thought about that time and the mile average I would need (7:23), I was a bit overwhelmed.  I had 89 miles on my legs for the week on race day, I had slept a mere 8 hours in the past two nights - total - and I was just mentally drained.  As Layla and I drove to the start, in the dark, I was really doubting what I could do.  We arrived with plenty of time to get Layla's bib and rest a bit in the car.  It was a bit chilly out so we stayed in the car as long as possible.  I may or may not have told Layla more than once, "I don't want to race today!"  "I think I'll just stay in the car and take a nap while you run, come and get me when you're done."  All week Punky and the hubbs kept telling me that I had the NY qualifier in the bag and that really I had sub 1:30 in me if I played my cards right.  I really attempted to not let either of them sway me emotionally, I just wanted to race well, get my sub 1:37 and ENJOY the day - anything else would be icing on the cake ;)

Layla & me before the start ;)

Finally we made our way over to the starting line and I stripped myself of my throw away clothes and stood in the cold in nothing more than a sports bra, shorts and some arm warmers.  It was chilly, but I could tell right away this was a smart move.  I had decided to also use a pacer for the race since they had a 1:30 on hand.  He was almost at the front, so I positioned myself between the front line of runners and the pacer.  I was feeling like maybe the 1:30 guy might be a bit fast but I would at least try a shot at staying with them in hopes of banking some time.  All of a sudden it was go time and the gun went off!

I began sprinting with the lead pack.  My legs felt awesome.  I started chasing a chic who was also in a sports bra and I had over heard her say in the starting corral she was shooting for a 1:25.  She became my target as we bobbed and weaved through the little bit of crowd that was ahead of us.  She was moving well, and when I looked down at my watch we were already running sub 7's.  This made me a bit nervous.  I have never strung together more than 7 or 8 sub 7's before, but in that instant I felt like going with it.  The 1:30 pacer was right behind me at this point too, so I just went with it.  At mile 1 my Garmin beeped a 6:41 mile and I panicked for a second.  Whoa!  TOO FAST!  Or at least that is what I was fearing.  I decided to try and scale it back and actually stick with the pacer from then on - I was really afraid of bonking too soon.  Mile 2 I tried to run with the pacer but my legs did not like holding back and when my Garmin beeped at mile 2 a 6:51 mile I knew I had more in me and I began to let go and let my legs take over.  Thankfully the girl in the sports bra was not too far ahead at this point and I began to chase her down once again.

By mile three I could tell my legs were feeling strong and I just went with it hoping for the best.  I finally caught and passed sports bra girl and never looked back.  I kept checking in with myself as I ran, hoping that I would know the signs to look for in case I started to bonk and would need to scale it back again.  But it never happened.  My breathing was in control, my kick felt great and my legs felt like they were on FIRE!  And so the miles kept going by and each one was faster or as fast as the last.  At mile 5, a spectator yelled at me that I was the 3rd female!  WOWZA!  How did that happen?  I didn't know I was running that well but it really lit a fire for me.  When I reached mile six in 40:15 I knew something awesome was happening and I just let it take me away.

Along this point also, a shorter chic came up and started drafting off of me.  I could hear the clap of her foot steps behind me, matching my every stride each time I pushed a little more.  It was so annoying.  I even turned my music up but I could still "feel" her on me.  Any time we had a hill, she would over take me, but I would recover quicker and take her over again.  It continued on like this for the whole race and there were quite a few hills and bridges we would cross.  She was playing the game well.  I attempted really hard to zone her out, but she just kept on me.  I also gu'ed around mile 6 or 7 - without water, but I never wanted to stop long enough to grab a cup and attempt to get it down.  I was running well and I finally felt the gu kick in and just kept at it.

I couldn't believe how well I was running, and for the first time, in such a large race, I had spectator's cheering for me and reminding me how close I was to the front.  Around mile 10 one woman spectator told me the second female was only a few seconds ahead of me and to go get her!  Again, it was just the fire I needed and my tenth mile was 6:33!  Every time though, that I would push and kick that short chic would match me.  It became apparent she was waiting to take me over - she knew my kick and could respond.  She knew what my weakness was now and it was now just a matter of time before she would attempt to capitalize on it.  I had to stay strong though, because I was feeling emotions I have never felt before.  I was in the lead pack at a pretty major race.  I wanted to cry, I wanted to run faster, I wanted to shout to the world how awesome I was feeling.  But I had to keep my emotions in check as the race was still unfolding.

Finally, with about 1.5 miles left, we hit the final bridge - and it was a rather large one.  This time the chic over took me quick and found her own kick and took off.  I tried to recover quickly but she just took off.  She found my weakness, let me do all the work for the race and finally made her move.  I tried to respond but I couldn't.  My legs were moving as fast as they could and I didn't want to get out of breath in case she herself bonked and I had a chance to take 3rd back.  But...she didn't.  She ran strong.  She was so close I felt I could reach out and touch her.  And each time I responded she found another gear and pulled away.  The final 3/4 mile was around the baseball stadium we started at.  As we rounded around I heard them say the first female had just crossed the finish line and I do believe that lit a fire for all of us.  I attempted to run faster but the parking lot and area they had us running on was all torn up concrete.  It was hard to find my footing.  At this point I was just holding on for dear life.  The finish of the race is right inside the baseball stadium and as I entered chasing that chic I saw woman #2 cross.  I put my head down and ran, seeing the clock read 1:27:xx.  I finally crossed the finish line in 1:27:54!!!  I couldn't believe it!  I put my hands in the air and screamed loud!  I was soooo excited!  I couldn't believe I had just raced as well as I had.

After I grabbed my medal, the chic who had drafted over me came over and congratulated me.  She ran a great race too, finishing just 13 seconds ahead of me.  I had tears rolling down my face - if I had only know it was 13 seconds, what would I have done differently?  It didn't matter in that moment though, my reaction made the whole crowd go nuts for me!  They all were excited for me!  I had every volunteer handing out medals trying to put a medal around my neck :)  I found my sister in the crowd and the tears just kept coming - I couldn't believe what I had just done, I couldn't believe how good I felt - it was so surreal. 

As I climbed up the top stairs I had many of the runners in front of me congratulate me.  I do believe that many of them are used to running this fast and are a bit jaded, they were happy for me and my happiness, it felt really good.  The second place woman also came over and gave me a hug - she finished a mere 40 seconds ahead of me. 

I quickly found my sister and cried in her arms.  I don't think I have been that overwhelmed from a race before.  Sure I really felt awesome after CIM, but this was new.  It was so unexpected, and I felt so fantastic afterwards that I was so overcome with joy.  I had ran well, I had ran smart and felt oh, so good!

We waited for Layla to cross the finish line, who by the way, had a PR day herself!  Go and check out her story, I won't ruin it here for her, but she should be proud!  She ran a great race also - just three months out from injury!  I also found out my official stats as we waited for Layla - turns out I came in second in my age group!!  I couldn't believe that either!  I had some more bling to gather!  The only kicker to that was though, the woman who came in first - was the chic who drafted off me, the one who beat me by 13 seconds - damn!
Official stats:
13.1 miles 1:27:54 - 6:41/mi pace
2nd in AG (30-34)
4th woman over all
41/4654

My favorite and best cheerleader Buggy & me ;)

I am still on cloud 9 today.  I am beyond thrilled with how my race turned out.  But I will be honest, I'm left with a lot of "what-if's?"  What if I hadn't ran 16 miles the day before?  What if I hadn't had 89 miles on my legs for the week prior?  What if I had a decent night's sleep?  What if I had kicked sooner and not let that chic draft off of me for so long?  What if I had been able to kick at that last bridge and not let her get away?  What if...  I almost can't let myself go into too many of those, I know I ran well.  I know I ran as well as I could with what I had given myself.  It was my first major race to run in where I actually raced it like I could really win it.  Dealing with all the emotions while out on the course was a new experience to me, and I think learning to respond when someone is right on your heals is also something that will get easier and strategy will present itself as I get more races under my belt that are of that caliber.  Right now, I am just enjoying the fact that I can finally say that all my crazy mileage and training is actually paying off.  I am proving that what I am posting and running is for real and that when it comes down to, I can deliver when I want to - the possibilities make me excited, makes me excited to now ask..."what's next?"

To say I'm not nervous about this weekend would be a lie.  I'm a bit overwhelmed, especially after seeing what happens at a 50K - but I would also be lying if I said I wasn't excited!  I can't wait to see what it feels like to cross the finish line of my very first ultra, I'm sure it will be nothing short of amazing.

I need to say a big shout out of thanks to my sister Suzie - she made this weekend possible for me.  She fed me well, she took good care of me and she was the best cheerleader I could ask for.  Thanks Suz, you mean the world to me!  And thank you to all of you for your encouraging support.  I thought about many of you as I ran yesterday ;)  Yesterday was day 66, I ran 19 miles yesterday (came home and ran another 6) and I ran 108 miles last week.  My legs are feeling great, fresh and ready to tackle the week and my first ultra.  If I don't check in here again this week, I will next Sunday, hopefully with a race report.  Good luck to all of you racing this weekend - run strong, run fast, ENJOY & believe in yourself!  You've got it in you!  I'm off to catch up with all of you!

Have a great week!
Happy running peeps!

108

When this "little" streak started, I really had no idea where it would lead me.  Sure, I knew that what I was attempting was something new by trying to run everyday for 60 days, 100 days, what have you, but I had no idea where my miles and paces would go.  I really had thought that my legs would eventually begin to revolt and that there would be more bad or hard days than good.  Boy, I couldn't have been more wrong!

Last week I had dreams of maybe, just maybe hitting 100 miles, and although I kind-of had my goals and heart set on meeting that, I wasn't sold on the idea that it was even possible.  Each day I'm able to run, and continue the streak, is a gift, and no set number of miles was going to make or break it.  This week though, when I started the week, I had a little bit of excitement as I thought what I could really attempt this week.  During this whole streak, aside for a few days, my legs have felt strong and fresh.  And when Monday came, after back to back races and double days, they felt great and I set out for my first run of the day with my friend Jana.  Together we tackled 10 miles, negative splitting, leaving us both feeling awesome and fresh.  When I got home, my legs were not tired, so I jumped on the old hamsterwhizzle and pounded out another 6.  Whoo hoo, 16 miles for Monday!  100 might just be possible!

And so the week went on, I continued to split up my runs and get into the double digits each day, running easy for one, and a bit faster harder on the other.  I have found that double days really agree with my legs, they enjoy the break up of the speed and I feel like they are really thriving on it.  By Friday though, after a long week of double digit days and my day job, my head had a hard time wrapping around the idea of even running one mile.  For the first time during the streak...I didn't want to run!  I know, GASP!  By the time I got home from work, it was almost six, and I was looking at the mileage I would need for the next three days to hit 100 and I was instantly overwhelmed.  13.37 miles each day minimum was needed, and staring down that barrel made me sick to my stomach.  But I changed my clothes, laced up my shoes, turned the TV on and just started running on the treadmill.  The first 3 miles were horrible, and I did everything I could to keep running.  Finally by mile 5, my legs and head warmed up, and the running high kicked in.  It was short lived though, and by mile 7 I just wanted to be done!  I lasted just two more miles and called it a day a 9.  I haven't had a hard run mentally like that in a long time.  I keep telling myself through this running streak, and all of my running, that the second this isn't fun anymore, it's time to quit for a while.  I went to bed that night thinking the streak might just be over and there was no way I was going to hit 100.

Saturday I had a running date with my buddy Punky.  Nothing like a running date to get you out of bed at 5:30 on a Saturday morning to run in 30 degree weather.  I loathed the idea of running as I got ready and shoved peanut butter toast and coffee down my throat.  As I drove I thought of a million of excuses to call him and tell him I was bailing, but soon enough I arrived at the trail and we were off in some of the coldest weather I have ever ran in.  Yes, I know, I'm a California wimp - cut me some slack though, it hardly ever gets that cold here!  Soon enough the miles were passing and we were turning around at 6.  I felt so much better on the way back.  My legs woke up, the fog of my running blues lifted and I enjoyed the run again.  When we finished, I felt great!  I felt renewed.  I instantly started doing the math in my head of what I needed to hit 100 for the weekend - 22.  22 miles stood between me and 100 miles for the week - it sounded very doable.

When I got home that morning, I changed into some dry clothes and headed out for a few more.  I had no idea what my legs or head were capable of, but soon enough I was hitting mile 10 and feeling fantastic.  I knew I had to stop though, 22 miles in one day is enough for one person, especially when those last 10 were ran at an 7:21/mi pace!  Oh, and I had my little sister's b-day cake to bake ;)  My legs and mojo were back after 22 miles - and now all that stood between me and 100 was 10 little miles ;)

I slept like garbage Saturday night - just like after I run a marathon.  Again, I made a running date with Punky to ensure I would get up and get the miles done.  Both Punky and I are training for the 50K, so back to back long runs is not a bad thing.  Punky though, has a 50 miler in just a few weeks after the 50K, so persuading him to run was not hard at all ;)  When I woke up this morning, I was met again with dread and not wanting to run.  I was exhausted, and even one mile sounded like one mile too long.  Oh, and it was even colder this morning, 29!!  Sheesh!  I'm ready for spring!  Thankfully, misery loves company, and Punky was just as sluggish as me.  We took it easy, did some great hill work and soon enough we were back after 10 miles and I hit my 100!!!  Nothing like a little run to make you snap out of it and realize just how wonderful your life is.  I just hit 100 miles and I was beyond stoked!  Thanks again Punky for meeting the milestone with me, I couldn't have done it without you ;)

When I got home from running, I was exhausted!  I told my hubbs I was just going to lay down for a second, and well, that turned into a 45 minute nap!  Guess I was tired!  By the time I woke up, I felt great again.  I ate some lunch, hung out with the fam and that old familiar itch to run crept back in.  Yes, I know, I hit my goal of 100 miles for the week.  But my legs and head still had the urge to run!  A stark contrast to the 2 days prior.  So I jumped at the opportunity to run again.  I laced up and set out into a cool, brisk winter afternoon with no goals other than to enjoy the miles ;)

Right away, my legs wanted to move.  I couldn't hold back, and soon enough I was checking off miles that I had no idea were capable after 100+ miles for the week.  I was back in love with running and just enjoying the whole run.  As you can see from my splits - my legs and heart enjoyed the run! 7:49, 7:38, 7:21, 7:08, 7:12, 6:59, 6:46 and my 108th mile for the week was my fastest at 6:24!!  Where that came from, I have no clue, but that whole run I was on cloud 9!  I didn't feel like I was pushing too hard, just enjoying a little speed and the beautiful afternoon. 

When this week started, I had a goal in mind, but I had no idea how I would hit it.  I had no idea if it was even possible, but I put my head down and just ran.  I ran though some great feelings, with some great people, and through some hard mental struggles.  I had highs and lows - which I now know, comes with the territory when you hit triple digits with miles in one week.  I had no idea that this kind-of mileage or speed was even possible with a running streak, but I'm here to tell you, anything is possible when you're a stubborn red head ;) 

Today was day 52, I ran 18 miles, and 108 for the week.  I'm truly amazed at all of that.  I will admit though, I'm a bit scared.  What's next?  What to do for an encore?  At 100 days will I be satisfied?  If I hit 115 miles in a week, will I be satisfied?  I almost can't think about any of those possibilities at the moment, I can only do what I can with the day I have in front of me.  One more day of running in the streak is a gift, no matter how many miles I hit.  Each week I run with out injury is a gift.  Each day I can get up and put one foot in front of the other is a gift, I don't intend to waste any of it.  For now, I'm going to keep plugging away.  I'm going to keep with that mantra, "one run at a time," because truly, that is all that we can control.  I will be more than excited if I'm able to hit 100 again this week or the next, or the week after that.  But I will also be excited for each day that I'm able to run.

Thanks again for all the encouragement this week!  You guys are truly motivation for me!  Reading and seeing what all of you are accomplishing is very inspiring, and I often think of all of you each time I lace up.  Thanks again to Punky for keeping me sane this weekend and believing that I had it in me even when I didn't - that meant more to me than you'll ever know ;)

I'm off to catch up with all of you!  Trust me I'm reading, but my comments may be sparse as I have a few miles to run and I'm in the thick of tax season!  Cograts to Tonia for an awesome half marathon PR this weekend!  You rock chica!
Happy Running peeps!

I Never Claimed to be Sane

Oh man, I won't bore you all with one long blog post right now.  I'll just give you all some highlights in bullet form - sometimes I even bore myself ;)

• The week before, I had my highest mileage ever, 76, during the worst week ever for me.  When this last week started, I wanted to see what I could do when I felt good and had less stress - it's official, I broke 90 miles this week!  91 to be exact, but who's counting ;)  My legs felt awesome all week, and let's just say, this week, I don't expect that number to go down at all!
• Today is day 46 - I ran 16 miles - again, I never said I was sane ;)
• I ran two races this weekend - one Saturday in the worst conditions ever.  Punky and Tara came out to run, too!  Two of my fav running peeps! A half marathon in rain, wind, cold and gravel.  But...I came out on top.  Despite having 53 miles on my legs before the race, I ran a PR of 1:34!!  Yes, I know, I'm in shock, too!  That was a 7:11/mi pace for the race - and my last 3 miles were 7:09, 7:04 & 6:49!  I'm beyond excited about this - and more excited to see what I can do with rested legs, a better course and conditions.  Unfortunately though, it wasn't a certified race, so darn the luck, I have to go and get my NY qualifier somewhere else!
• After the race, I came home and pulled a crazy again - and ran another 6 miles on the hamsterwheel to loosen up my legs & get my long run done.  I'm really enjoying breaking up my long run.  If I run slow in the morning, I'll do some speed in the afternoon.  If I run fast in the morning, I'll do an easier pace in the afternoon - it seems to be working out well.
• Sunday was a trail 20K with my buddy Punky again.  It was cold, and I think I told him more than once that I was just going to stay in the warm car and sit this one out.  

Freezing my butt off before (hey, it was 36 out, that's cold for this California girl!)

• Since we had been pelted by rain here in the Bay for 5 days straight, it was a muddy scene out there.  But Punky and I took our time and enjoyed the beautiful scenery running around Lake Chabot.  We warmed up quickly, especially when we picked up the pace as we ran by a shooting range!  We were NOT expecting to hear gun shots on our beautiful early morning trail run.  I took it easy, probably slowing down Punky in the process, but ran the uphills and walked the downhills as to not tear my quads up or fall on my butt in the mud.  We finished with 10.75 miles and jumped right into the car to get warm!  We also may or may not have been beaten by a blind man ;)

One muddy hill!

• After getting home and getting warmed up, you guessed it, I jumped on the TM to finish off the day.  But...let me defend myself!  I was at 84 miles and I wanted to see if I could hit 90!  As soon as I started running I felt awesome.  My legs welcomed a little even pace on the hamsterwheel and I finished the day with 18 miles and 91 for the week!  Whoo hoo!  That really made me smile ;)

As you can see, I had one hell of a crazy week!  I think I'm going to be more than prepared for my 50K in March, but more than anything, I am excited to see where my paces are going to be when May comes around.  I'm going to continue to ride the running streak for as long as possible.  My legs are feeling fresh and awesome, and I couldn't be more pleased.

I'm off to catch up with all of you!  Congrats to everyone who raced this weekend, especially my buddy LB who had a huge 5K PR and to Denise who also had a huge 5 miler PR!  You guys rock!

Happy Running Peeps!

A Horrible, Terrible, No Good, Very Bad Week

As you can tell by the title of this post, my week was less than stellar.  Although, I have to say that I thank God that everything has worked out for the best.  Things could have been worse, and for that I'm grateful.

The week started out great.  The job has been going really well, and so far this is the easiest tax season I have ever had.  Now, mind you, it's only the second week of February, and I'm sure I have just jinxed myself by saying that.  But usually by this time of the year, I am beginning to loose my hair AND my mind.  So far, things are going smoothly, a lot less stressful than ever before and for that, in this moment, I'm grateful.

My horrible, terrible, no good, very bad week though, came on with a vengeance Wednesday morning.  I have an hour commute to work.  I travel down a main highway that has bumper to bumper traffic all morning.  It has a reputation for being a dangerous freeway, mainly because people just drive way too fast and have little to no patience for their fellow mankind.  I always take my time though, going to work.  I leave early enough that if I were to hit a major traffic hiccup, I'm still on time.  And if I'm not on time, it's never the end of the world.  Wednesday I was just driving along, had my hands at 10 & 2, paying attention to traffic, when OUT OF NO WHERE a woman in a giant Toyota Sequoia SUV decided to get in front of me and hit her breaks.  I was doing about 30 miles an hour, had a car length between me and the person in front of me, and she just squeezed in for no reason.  I couldn't stop in time though, and I rear ended her.  It was awful.  My car was totaled right away.  I drive (drove) a Mercedes CLK 350 convertible, a smaller two -door sports car, and her bumper just ate me up.  Thankfully though, my car saved my life.  It did everything it was supposed to do, everything it was designed to do.  It helped me break faster, it crumpled in all the right spots, it rolled down the windows, it turned on the hazards, shut the power off the car and even dialed the police for me as I sat in a haze with my airbag deployed and trying to figure out what had just happened.  When I looked up a split second later, the freeway, that is usually jammed packed, was empty.  Even the SUV that hit me was gone.  About 2 minutes later, I see the SUV driving backwards for over a mile on the right hand shoulder.  She had driven off, probably didn't even know I hit her GIANT car and saw finally in her rear view mirror my crumpled, smoking car.  I was lucky.  My face never touched the air bag, the seat belt pulled me into my seat, I even heard it lock me down in the collision.  After I realized more exactly what happened, the tears just came.  My arms were burned from the air bag.  They were bruised, and so was my collar bone and neck from the seat belt - but I was alive!  I had survived a major crash, and my car did everything for me that I wasn't able to do.

It seemed to take forever for the ambulance, fire truck and police to show up.  I'm sure it was only a matter of minutes, though.  I was so grateful that my car had the S.O.S. system in it, like OnStar, only for Mercedes, because I was so shaken and hurt I could barely call my husband five minutes later and tell him what had happened.  Apparently I only said I was in an accident on the freeway and I was hurt.  He jumped in the car right away to meet me, but it took him a long time to get there because of all the traffic back up I had caused.  Shock set in and I started feeling pretty good.  But the fire chief on the scene told me he really wanted me to get on the back board and take me to the hospital.  Within minutes, I was laying on the side of the freeway, looking up at the blue sky, being braced down to a back board and loaded into an ambulance.  It all felt so surreal.  One second I was being a cautious driver, the next I had a totaled car and was in an ambulance.  Just as they were pulling away with me in the ambulance, my husband showed up and took care of everything I couldn't.  Thankfully, THANKFULLY I had the best group of emergency people show up and help me.  The fire chief even went though my purse and car and got all my id's and cards out for me, all while cracking jokes and attempting to make me smile.  I think at one point he told me my car was fine, that it would just need a little touch up paint! LOL!  By the time I arrived at the hospital, I was in some pain, but I was alive and had nothing broken.

The ER doctor said I really dodged a bullet and that it was thanks to my car and my safe driving that I walked away ok.  I had a few x-ray's done, but thankfully nothing had broken - only my confidence.  This all happened at 7:20 a.m. and by 9:30 I was home licking my wounds and asking, "what the hell just happened?"  I did nothing wrong on Wednesday.  I was driving safe.  No cell phone, no radio on, I hadn't even eaten my breakfast or drank my coffee yet - I was just driving.  She just pulled in front of me and slammed on her breaks for no reason - the only damage done to her car was a bent tow hitch.  My poor, pretty, SAFE car is gone, and I know it's only a car, IT SAVED MY LIFE, but I'm sad about it.  Now I have the wonderful task of having to buy another one - something I'm not looking forward to.  In an instant everything changed, and there was nothing I could do about it.

Later that afternoon, after I napped, iced and took some Advil, I went for a run.  YES, I know, probably not something anyone would recommend.  But it was the most glorious run ever.  I was alive, I was un-hurt for the most part, minus a few bruises and burns.  My legs worked still, the streak continued and I got to just let my mind rest while I ran.  Those are the types of runs I live for, the therapeutic ones where you think about nothing but one foot in front of the other.  I was angry, I was sad and I was so thankful that I had walked away alive.  I'm still dealing with some nerves while driving.  I'm a good driver, a confident, safe driver, but right now I'm more than nervous while I'm on the road, especially on the freeway.  I know that it will get better, that time will heal this, but in the mean time I'm more than cautious.

Thursday and Friday I worked half days, sitting at the computer more than 4 or 5 hours really hurt my neck.  So I took full advantage of the beautiful weather and the extra time to just run.  Funny enough, my neck and collar bone did not hurt while I ran.  Maybe it was just all the endorphins and happy thoughts that I was still able to run that masked anything, but today I feel great.  No pain, just my arms are still a bit sensitive to the touch where the burns and bruises are, and my collar bone a little sensitive to the touch, too.  My streak continues.  You know what one of the first thoughts that crossed my mind immediately after the accident was?  You guessed it, MY STREAK!  I would be damned if this careless, wreck-less driver was going to ruin it for me.  In those early moments though, when everything was hazy and I had no idea what was in store for me, a lot of the tears were for my fear that the streak was lost.  I know, it sounds crazy, but I could only think that my running would help me heal through it all...and it did.

I don't know still what is going on with the insurance, thankfully the hubbs is taking care of it.  I never saw my car after the accident.  But it didn't look good from the view I had.  I don't think I could see my pretty, now wrecked car, and not cry.  I still tear up and want to sob when I think of everything that happened and could have happened.  Lots of tears have been shed since Wednesday when I think about it all.  I know it was by no means a life or death thing, but it did reaffirm for me that life is pretty damn short and that we only get one shot at it. 

I finished off the week today with a great 20 miler.  I got up early and met my buddy Punky for a run.  It was cold when we started, but we finished 8 strong miles together, averaging 9:07.  I came home, ate, stretched and went out to finish my day with another strong 12.  If you've been following me on daily mile, you would know my left quad has been less than happy with me.  It gets knotted really easy after my runs, and stretching, ice and my new BFF Tiger Balm are working wonders.  Thankfully today it cooperated, and I finished the week with 76 miles - my biggest running week ever!  And to think, I crashed and totaled my car on Wednesday.  Guess my running really helped me get over it all.  Next week will be a cut back week for me, I'm really looking forward to it.  The streak continues at 38 days!

I know I babbled a bit here - it was actually quite therapeutic to get it all out of my head.  So, as you can see, between mourning the car crash and running a zillion miles, I had little to no time to catch up with all of you.  But it is my priority tomorrow night, as my valentine will be working.  Thank you all for the encouragement this week as I continue on this crazy streak.  I'm loving seeing what my body and my head can accomplish when I have a big goal in mind.
Hope you all have a wonderful Valentine's day and you spend it with the people who matter most to you ;)
Happy Running Peeps!

30 Days

As I sit here today, I'm on day 31 of my streak.  As I mentioned in my last post, I had high hopes of making it to at least day 30, but now that it has come and gone I sit here thinking what's next?  Through out these 30 days I have learned a ton about myself.  I have learned that I'm stronger than I thought, that my legs are strong and resilient, but above all, I have learned that when you have a goal in mind, all that stands between you and the finish is the mental attitude that you can get there if you really want to.

Running every day has become such a part of my routine, it's hard to imagine one day in the future of not lacing up and heading out for a run.  My day doesn't feel complete until I've logged my miles and had a good sweat.  I think there is some real truth to the 21 day habit thinking - it has become a habit, it has become more apart of me now than even before I started the streak.
I'm amazed at what I have accomplished.  By the numbers, here is where I stand at the end of the 30 days:
day started: January 8th - Crystal Springs Trail Half Marathon - 14.57 miles
miles logged: 255.4
average pace/mi: 8:15
long runs done: 4 - topping yesterday's 30 streak with a fast 18
pounds lost: close to 9-11 (I'm amazed at this!)

When I look at the raw numbers, I'm pretty dang proud.  I had no idea where this little streak would send me, but I just finished day 31 with another 8, and capping out my week with 68 miles - my highest mileage in I can't even remember!  Amazingly, my legs feel great!  I was a bit tired today when I set out, but it was windy and very warm, about 76, but I just pushed through and averaged a 7:55/mi pace - a pace I would have been ecstatic about just a few short months ago.

More than anything, I have seen my legs get faster.  I would not have imagined that would have happened over the course of running for 30 days straight, I would have thought the exact opposite.  But with the combination  of loosing quite a bit of pounds, rolling out daily and taking an ice bath a few times a week, my legs are loving this and are finally turning over at a pace I have been only dreaming about.  I feel almost as proud as when I crossed the finish line at CIM in December, and that's saying a lot!

With today being day #31, I can only think what's next?  I have been being very smart about my running, I'm eating a ton better, icing, stretching, rolling out, and I do believe this is what has kept me going.  My legs feel fresh everyday, and I am going to continue to ride this wave for as long as possible.  Right now I'm shooting for 60 days, but in all honesty, I would love to hit 100.  There's just something about 100 that sounds so bad ass! I know though, in order to keep going, I need to be smart about it.  I need to continue to listen to my body, fuel it well, and treat it like that temple that it is.  As I got farther and farther into the streak, I really tried to focus on what the benefits would be to me.  In the grand scheme of it all, I'm hoping that it will reap dividends when I toe the line for my first 50K in March - knowing what tired legs feels likes will really help me mentally when it gets tough out there.  Oh wait, forgot to mention that didn't I?  Oops!  I kind-of agreed to run a 50K in March with Punky.  Our friend isn't going to be able to run it (boo!) and offered me her bib!  Yayyy!  But, at the time I agreed to it, I hadn't looked at the date!  Oops again!  It's the day before my Shamrockin' Half!  Oh well, if I don't know what tired legs feels like now, I will then!  My original plan was to try and qualify for NY at Shamrockin', but now it will be just a fun run with some of my favorite running peeps.  There will be plenty of other half's this year to get that NY qualifying time, so I'm not at all bummed about that.  Oh, and if you noticed on my little side bar of upcoming races for the year, I added the Eugene Marathon on May 1st.  I was very much in need of a training plan when I signed up, I needed something to shoot and train for.  I have heard so many awesome things about this race and the timing just seemed to be perfect - AFTER tax season was all I needed to read ;)

As you can see, I have a busy schedule ahead of me.  But for the first time in a long time, I am finally feeling like my running has purpose, and that is a big relief to me.  I love to run, I love everything about it, but I do so much better when there is a carrot hanging in front of me like a goal race.  I'm hoping for a BIG PR there, so watch out, I'm thinking I'm going to have some more big weeks to come before race day.  Thanks again for all the support, knowing I have all of you cheering me on means a ton ;)

Congrats to all my friends who ran and raced this weekend!  Especially my buddy L.B. who had a HUGE PR at Surf City this weekend!  And my girl Page who also had a HUGE PR there in the half - that's a NY qualifying time!  You both are rockstars in my book!  Very proud of you both!!! CONGRATS!!

I'm off to catch off with all of you, enjoy your Super Bowl Sunday!!
Happy Running peeps!

Hello?? Anybody Still Here??

I've been a bad, bad blogger.  I hang my head in shame for not coming around for a while.  But I have my reasons.  I needed a break.  Life has gotten really busy, lots on my plate and lots to think about.  I started my new job a couple of weeks ago and it's going pretty darn good, couldn't ask for more.  The hour long commute in each direction leaves something to be desired, but I'm back in a routine, earning actual money and I'm doing what I love and do best: taxes.  Yes, you read that correct, I love taxes ;)

January was a big month for me.  Running has been very important to me and very much apart of my life.  Since January 8th I have been on a bit of a running streak!  I'm at day 26 and still going strong.  I didn't mean to start a running streak, I think it just came out of necessity due to all that was going on in my life.  I realized it one day when I was logging my latest workout and saw I hadn't taken a rest day in 10 days!  Wowza!  I was sure I had had one in between, apparently though, that was not the case.  With that realization came a thought:  I think I can keep going!  I think I can reach 20 days!  Then 20 turned into 30, and now I'm just four short days away from 30 and I think I'm going to keep going!  Surprisingly, my legs feel awesome, still fresh and fast, which I didn't know was possible.  I did have one day where my hip hurt and waited to do my run until later in the day, but aside from that little blip, my legs are loving it!  And my head thanks me, too ;)  I logged over 244 miles for the month of January - not a bad way to start the new year.

I really didn't have any rules for the streak, just that I run a minimum of 5 miles a day, and that has not been a problem what so ever - I usually end up doing at least six and am still getting in some good long runs on the weekend.  I used to see other runner's doing streaks and think they were crazy, but I am eating my words now.  Running each day has become such a habit, I can't see it ending any time soon!

To keep up the running though, and my job, and all my other responsibilities, I have been made to eat some more words: I have become a morning runner.  I never thought it possible that me, the afternoon/evening runner would ever be able to get up early and enjoy a run.  Well, my friends, I'm here to tell you, anything is possible when you want it.  I get to work around 8 am, which means I leave my house around 7, factoring in getting ready before hand and getting a run in means I am up at 4:30 each morning and at the gym by 5am!  Yes, 5am!  I am often waiting for them to unlock the doors! Who have I become?!  I will say, the first week was a little rough.  The first couple of miles were dreadful, and I couldn't find my pace very easy.  But after some time it has gotten so much easier and I'm actually loving having my run done before 6:30am!  Who knew!?  I also noticed that by mid-morning I don't feel like I ran at all, and if I could, I would lace up and run again.  But I have been good and not been doubling up...yet.  I'm actually enjoying my evenings home, not having the running monkey on my back!

Along with all my running, I have also managed to get a couple of trail races in!  Don't think I would stop racing, did you?  January 8th I did the Crystal Spring Trail Half Marathon with Punky and then this past weekend I did the Coyote Hills Trail Half with Punky, JoLynn, Stacey and a ton of other bloggy peeps.  It wasn't the most scenic course, but it was definitely great to be out running the trails with some of my favorite running peeps!  I have a few other fun trail runs and a half marathon coming up this month and next.  My credit card has gotten quite the workout lately.  I have decided to continue to sign up for races and play the wait and see game.  I hated not having anything on the calendar, and as we all know, it is cheaper to sign up early than to wait.  And if you're wondering, no, no news in that other department.

Punky, Stacey, JoLynn and me

(thanks Ron for the photo)

As you can see I've been up to my eyeballs in running and balancing my new job.  I didn't realize how cushy I had it at my last one or how wonderful it was to not have a schedule each day.  Be careful what you wish for, it might just come true! I am actually really enjoying the job, I just wish it would fit better around my social life and of course, running ;)  My twitter, Facebook and blogging time has taken a serious hit!  But I'm working on fitting it all in, one piece at a time.

I often read your blogs on my phone in between all the craziness, so sorry if I don't comment, I still am keeping up with all of you!  Some of you are doing and planning some amazing things, I love watching it all unfold for so many of you.  Keep it up! 

I will do my best to get back here again in the very near future.  Every day is different in the tax world, and unfortunately it is only going to get busier though May.  So my apologies in advance if my posting and comments are sporatic.  Just know I'm thinking about all of you and sending lots of good thoughts your way!  Drop me an email any time, I love to hear from you and often times that is how I communicate even with the fam now!  I know, tragic, but it's tax season, I'm on a running streak and life has gotten very, very busy ;)

Thanks for checking in!
Happy Running peeps!!