St. Geezy Ain't Easy

Disappointing news: I've decided not to run the St. George marathon. I'm ashamed and embarrassed, as I've never bailed on a big race like this before. Sure, I've complained constantly and threatened to quit at every turn--and every incline--but that's just always been my process. I complain and whine my way through training then complete the race and boast about my epic achievement for the following 6 months. (BTW, have you heard? I JUST had a baby.)

This time has been different. From the beginning, I was never too keen on running this race. I was all but coerced into it by my friend Stuffanie. (Name changed to protect her identity.) The day of the lottery, I about threw up when I saw I had gotten in. But I put on my big girl panties, slathered on the Body Glide, and hit the pavement.

The first couple months of training went pretty smoothly and were--dare I say--enjoyable. I was already in relatively good shape as I had already been busting my butt to shed the pregnancy weight. I had a running partner, too, which made my long runs bearable. But as I started creeping up into higher mileage, things began to fall apart.

Not only was the training getting more difficult but finding the time to do it was becoming increasingly hard to come by. Since Boyfriend works like 32 hours a day, I didn't have anyone to watch the girls while I ran. I don't have a jogging stroller, Lalea isn't steady enough on her bike yet, so bringing them along wasn't an option. I tried running on the treadmill at our clubhouse gym. If I was lucky, I'd get about 3-4 miles in before the fish started screaming her head off and annoying the crap out of all the other residents. Even if she had cooperated, there's no way I'd attempt an 18 miler on a treadmill. I'd probably burn out the belt before I even finished.

When Ry was home, I'd sacrifice our family time to go out and run away the day, complaining the entire time...complaining when I got home...complaining at church the next morning. Lots of complaining. It just wasn't fun. Training wasn't empowering like it had been in the past. I was not the least bit excited about the race. I'd never not wanted to do something so much in my life!

So when I got the text from Stuffanie that she had to drop out due to some very unfortunate and legitimate reasons, I jumped all over the opportunity to throw in the towel, as well. One of the best decisions of my life.

I'm still disappointed, though, because I had already invested so much time into it. I had gotten up to like 14 miles, I think. Halfway there. And had a half-marathon been an option, I would have totally done that.

Additionally, the race fee was non-refundable and non-transferable. So there went $100. Not to mention I forfeited bragging rights. That's the biggest letdown of all.

Though, I've already run 3 full marathons making me 3x better than most people by default.

Winning.

Lo Siento

I've been so bad about blogging lately and about getting to my friends' blogs. So so sorry! I promise to get back to it all soon!

I don't have any big vacations, races, or life changing events planned for the next few months, so I should be able to get back into things this week.

Along with jumping back into the blogosphere, I also start running and working out again this week. After last Saturday, it's been WONDERFUL to take the whole week off and not worry about running, lifting weights, or doing a single sit-up. But in place of all the exercise, I've taken up sugar and soda again :( Big Uh-Oh.

It's been lovely overindulging, but I can definitely feel it now. I feel disgusting, gross, and out of shape. So tomorrow, along with the running and exercising, I go back to my no-soda-and-no-sugar diet. Gonna be hard to ween myself off again. Last time I just quit cold turkey. We'll see if that works this time, too. Be prepared for a very grumpy lady. Though, I'm hoping the endorphins from the exercise will help me through the sugar cravings. I'll keep my fingers crossed...and my fridge stocked with lots of fresh fruit!

Anyways, I miss you all and look forward to catching up on all your lovely blogs. Thanks for your patience as I try and get my life back together!!!!!

Numero 3

Well, I've done it again. I made it through another grueling 26.2 miles. Don't ask me how I did it, I still have no idea.

After the whirlwind of Europe and having completed this marathon, I feel like I can finally breathe again. But just like Europe, my race update won't come until later.

Tonight, I just feel too busted to do anything but feed my face and catch up on Glee episodes on Hulu.

Until then, feast your eyes on this beauty. It's the third one for my collection!

Back in the US of A

After being gone nearly a month, I'm finally back! And though I had an AMAZING time in Europe, I couldn't be happier to be home.

I've got so much to lay on ya about my trip but for now, I've gotta scramble to get my house back together and figure out how the hell I'm gonna get myself through 26.2 miles this Saturday at the Ogden Marathon.

Again, pray for me!

Ramblings

1) A few weeks ago, I bought a month's membership for Sweaty Chix Fitness on Groupon. Sweaty Chix is AWESOME! They offer lots of different fitness classes like Cardio Drench, Yoga, and Zumba. But my all time favorite classes are Hip Hop Hustle and Hot Hula. Of course, I love hip hop cuz you know I like to pop my booty. But have you seen the booty shakin' require for hula??!? Well, Tahitian really. But you knew I'd love me some hula...since I am Hawaiian and all. Lalea even comes to dance with me sometimes.

2) Our Eurotrip is less than a month away. I'm stressing BIG time! I'm just so nervous about our travel arrangements. I'm sure something is gonna get messed up of miscommunicated and one of us is gonna get stranded somewhere. Maybe I should have gone with a travel agent after all. But when I met with one, he seemed like and idiot and hadn't even been to Europe. He had no insider information and was only reiterating things I had already researched for myself. I actually found myself better deals than the agent was offering. Though, I guess the beauty in an agent is not having to do the research for myself anyways. It's a trade-off.

3) My family is obsessed with playing Settlers of Catan. We are now a true Utah County Mormon family. How cheesy.

4) Last month, my mom's dog got super sick and we had to put her down. So sad. We've had Pili for nearly 8 years. After Mom put her down, she was going through puppy withdrawls. So, last week she picked up another. This is Rella. She's a Morkie, half Maltese half Yorkie. One of the cutest things you've ever seen!

5) I'm lacking some serious motivation. After training for almost 2 years straight, I'm starting to get burnt out on running. Running has turned into more of an obligation. I'm always proud and feel accomplished after completing a long run on Saturdays, but Friday night leading up to it, I'm so angry. I have such a bad attitude going into it because I just don't want to HAVE to do it anymore. I haven't taken my training as seriously this time around. I think I'm going to take a break after Ogden. Switch to cycling for a while. I'll still run. Maybe do some half marathons and some 10ks, but I don't think I'll do a full marathon again until after we have another baby. But with that all said, I'm still very appreciative of everyone's support, encouragement, and generosity. I truly wouldn't have gotten this far without your help. Thanks a million!

Hood to Coast

One of my besties, Stephanie, bought me tickets to this movie.



The showing was last night, so to prepare for the motivational event, we began our evening by shopping at Runner's Corner. I finally got a much needed new pair of running shoes; good ol' Asics Fortitude, 4E width! (Yes, I have HUGE flat, wide feet to go along with my monstorous calves.)

Then with a quick stop at Five Guys for a real runner's meal, we headed to the theater where Wasatch Running Co. was hosting the live event. I got a free water bottle and a glowie!

The film was great and brought back a lot of memories of Redrock.

I can't WAIT to do another relay...but this time, not as the team captain. Who's in??? Anyone?!?!?

Auld Lang Syne

As another year comes to an end, it's time to revisit the bests and worsts of 2010.

Favorite Moments
Becoming a marathoner
Meeting Bart Yasso
Running the RRR with my Ryan
Attending the UFC Fan Expo
Stalking Kody Brown
House boating on Lake Powell
Becoming a SAHM

Not-So-Hot Moments
Potty training
Ryan getting the shaft from Sunroc
Moving out of the Camelot community
Deciding to be the RRR captain
The earthquake in Haiti
Wikileaks

Disappointments
BP
Girl With the Dragon Tattoo
Kim Kardashian's DWTS debut
Jesse James
California voting no on Prop 19

Favorite Songs
Airplanes - B.O.B feat. Hayley Williams and Eminem
F!*# You - Cee Lo Green
My Chick Bad - Ludacris feat. Nicki Minaj
Tight Rope - Janelle Monae feat. Big Boi



Best Movies - I didn't really go to very many movies this year. I'm not too keen on paying $74 for a ticket at the theaters. Plus, my life is now consumed with all things toddler so it's no surprise my favorite movies this year are kids/family movies. My life is so glamorous.
Inception
Hot Tub Time Machine (That crap is funny. Don't judge me.)
Toy Story 3
Despicable Me

Best Reads - I always have to clarify that these book picks aren't books that were necessarily published in 2010. Rather, they're simply books that I read this year.
My Life on the Run - Bart Yasso
Heft on Wheels - Mike Magnuson
Escape - Carolyn Jessop
In the Forest - Edna O'Brien
The Rookie - Scott Sigler

Enjoy your final hours of 2010. I must admit, it was a good year. Let's see what 2011 has to offer.

Las Vegas Rock 'n' Roll Marathon 2010

I did it, son! It super sucked, but I did it.

The whole thing didn't suck. Actually, the first half was awesome. I was running at a pace of about a 10:45 minute mile until the half and full split. The first half was also awesome because runners owned the strip. We got to run right down Las Vegas Blvd in the shadow of all the huge hotels and casinos. And as we ran by, we could see the Bellagio fountains and Mirage volcano spouting off. (An honor since those performances are generally reserved for the evenings.)

As soon as the half and full split, however, things automatically became a bit sketchy. First, we're met by a long-ass hill. I guess it wasn't too bad, it was just an overpass. Still, when you've already nearly sprinted 13.1 miles in an attempt to make the cut-off, a big hill isn't really something you're eager to climb up. Needless to say, many runners accompanied me in walking up that crap.

I think somewhere back at mile 10, I started to get a hot spot on my right foot. By about mile 15, it was a full blow blister that hurt like a mofo. But soon, the blister became the least of my problems.

By about mile 19, my entire left foot was jacked. My toes were cramping, my arch was aching, and even my ankle felt like it was about to just break in half. And since I suppenate pretty severely, just right of the ball of my foot started throbbing.

I made it to my family at mile 21 but couldn't stop. Not because I was determined to get it done but because if I had stopped, I wouldn't have been able to start again. So I said my hellos and jogged on by. Of course, I was no longer running a 10:45 at this point. It was more like a 12:30 minute mile...when I wasn't walking.

Miles 21-25 were some of the lonliest. It super sucks not having a team to run with. There were tons of peeps out there in the TNT purple jerseys, and I did chat them up a bit. But for the most part, I was all by my onesies. It was hard hard HARD to will myself to keep going. Every muscle in my body ached and it wouldn't have surprised me if my entire right foot just fell off mid stride.

I finally make it to mile 26 back along the strip and there's tons of people cheering. I suck it up and quicken my pace to about 11 minutes. I get into the chute and dig deep for a 9 minute pace.

VICTORY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

5:38:30 and a shiny new medal!!!! Oh, and a picture with Elvis.

Shortly after, I hobbled to grab my bag outta gear check and promptly collapsed atop my mylar blanket spread out onto the asphalt. Don't worry, I didn't pass out or anything. I was just so exhausted and I could barely walk.

That evening, I replenished all the calories I burned during the race with chili cheese fries, a baked potato smothered in butter and sour cream, and a 10oz prime rib. Yup, it was all worth it!

Viva Las Vegas

Well, there's no turning back now. I'm in Vegas and gearing up for my race on Sunday. About to head to the race expo to pick up my packet and get my corral assignment.

I'm actually pretty nervous. I don't feel nearly as prepared for this marathon as I was for Ogden. Probably because I did this one on my own and wasn't obligated to a team and slacked off :(

Hope my calves hold up, and hope I don't die.

If I make it though, I'll be setting a personal record. Woo hoo! So, please send me good vibes on Sunday. Prayers are also welcomed and appreciated!

Let's do work!!!!!

My cup runneth over

2010 has been a big year for me and I have a lot for which to be thankful.

• The Ogden Marathon
• Living rent free...again
• Ward choir
• Tuesday nights
• YouTube makeup tutorials
• The Budos
• Audiobooks and podcasts
• The potty watch
• Lake Powell
• Pittsburgh
• Zumanity
• 10 mile runs with Stephanie
• Carinessa II garments
• Extended calf boots
• Centaurs
• Red Rock Relay
• The BYU math department
• My Taralyn
• Donations to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
• Sparrows
• Worthy priesthood holders

As always, I have to add a disclaimer that this is not a comprehensive list. I'm grateful for so many things but most of all my family, the gospel, and the love of my Father in heaven.

Hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving!!!

Ramblings

1) Twice this weekend I attempted to run 18 miles. Twice this weekend I have failed. Made it 13.5 today. Not even close! Next weekend I'll try again. But I have to wonder, why do I even bother? I mean, really. Why run marathons? I hate running! It's hard. It's sweaty. It sucks! In all honesty, the only real reason why I won't let myself stop is for bragging rights. I'm pretty vain.

2) I'm so glad my friend Shauna is in town. As much as she hates being in Utah and misses L.A., I'm secretly ecstatic that her week-long trip here has extended into a 3-week trip. I love hanging out with Shauna. She makes me feel normal again. Plus, she sings Broadway duets with me. Best friend ever, right?

PS
You should really check out Shauna's blog. She gets it.

3) Sister Wives is the most disgusting, most revolting, and most barfiest show of all time. I can't stop watching it.

4) My birthday is this week. Only 4 more days. (I know you've been counting down.) I can't wait! I love love LOVE presents 'cause not only am I vain, but I'm also superficial.

5) I've been in a crazy reading mode lately. I want to read anything I can get my hands on. I generally have at least 2 books going at a time plus I'm listening to an audiobook on my iPod while I run. I finally cracked open The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo to see what all the fuss was about. So far, I'm not impressed. Rather, I'm bored as hell. Nothing gets me to sleep faster than lame financial talk. Boring. When is this gonna start getting good?

6) Just like my birthday, I can not wait for Christmas. I know it's not even Thanksgiving yet and it's like illegal or something to get into the Christmas spirit before Thanksgiving, but I've already started shopping for gifts. As much as I like receiving gifts, I like giving them, too. And of course, I go overboard buying for Lalea. But I think I'm actually just about done buying her gifts and so far I think I've only spent like $25 on her. Not bad! Ryan will be another story. For one, I don't have my own money this year to buy his gift so I'll just be using his credit card to buy his own presents. Not really a present then, is it?

7) I signed up with some friends to play volleyball in Spanish Fork. SF is know to be pretty competitive city league. We've signed up for the A division. We're all awesome volleyball players and we won stake regionals last year, but I really dont' see us winning too many games in the SF league. I'm telling you, this league is legit, especially the A division. We're talking collegiate level play. I'm so excited, though. But I guess this means I'll actually have to start trying in games instead of half-assing it like a usually do. Damn. I like being lazy.

Feliz Cumpleaños

With my birthday only 2 weeks away, I know you all are just DYING to know what gift to get me. So to make it easier on you all, I've once again composed a wish list. You should probably coordinate amongst yourselves and decide who will purchase which items. How embarrassing to double up on a gift, unless, of course, it's the first item on my list...

Donations to the LLS
That's right, ya'll. I'm at it again! Though I'm in the process of training for my second marathon in December, I will be doing the Ogden marathon with Team in Training again in May. This time around, though, I'll be a team captain. Woo hoo! But I still need your help! I need to raise $700 for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society by April 30th. Therefore, I am accepting donations as birthday gifts. Please make checks out to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. And as always, donations are 100% tax deductible. See? It's the gift that keeps on giving!

RENT tickets
Finally, RENT has come to SLC! Well, it hasn't come yet, but next June you'd better believe I'll be singing my heart out right along with Angel, Benny, and Mark. Thanks to mi madre, this gift has already been taken care of. Can't wait to see it with her!

Clothes
Now that I have a child, I rarely by myself clothes. Instead, I spend all my money on decking Lalea out in converse, Hurley, and skinny jeans. It's been FOREVER since I've bought myself some new duds, and I need them desperately! But just like the RENT tix, this gift has also been covered. With a quick trip up to Park City,, I've got my fall and winter wardrobe covered! Thanks Buggy!! You da best!

Garments
Remember how I'm obsessed with changing my underwear every 2 seconds? Yeah well, help feed the addiction.

Boots
I have ginormous calves. There ain't no denying. And because of these monsters, I have never been able to find a pair of boots that fit me. I'm not talking a little tight to zip up. I'm talking, they won't even zip up past my ankle. Yes. My calves are that big. (But baby, they're solid muscle! Jealous? You should be.) However, I went to Payless the other day and actually found some boots that not only fit over my gams, but had room to spare. Miracle of miracles! So it's not that I just want these boots, I NEED these boots! When will I ever again find a pair of boots that fit? BUY THEM FOR ME NOW!!!!!!!!

And if all else fails, grab me a TJ Maxx gift card. Ya'll know that's my favorite store of all time. I'm also accepting cold hard cash. So again, coordinate with one another as to who's buying me what, and I'll see ya on the 21st to celebrate the day I was brought into this world. It really should be a national holiday, ya know?

Too Dirty to Clean My Act Up

Yesterday I joined the throngs of other crazy nut cases to participate in Utah's first ever Dirty Dash--or what I like to refer to it as, The Dirty.

A 10k obstacle course up at Soldier Hollow that involved hurdling over hay bales, wading through knee-deep muck, throwing ourselves over walls to the finish line where we had to crawl through a soupy mud pit. And those were the easy parts of the course!

Most of the course was uphill. And being at such a high altitude and having a cold on top of that, I thought I was gonna die. I swear it was the longest 6

miles of my life! I had to walk a lot of it. But not to worry, so did most of the other participants. I think it took my team about 1.5 hours to finish, which talking to other Dirty Dashers, that was about the average finishing time for all the other teams.

This race was exhausting, painful, and filthy. I can't wait to do it all over again in May!!!

Rock 'n' Roll

It's official. I have decided to take on another marathon. Call me crazy. I know I am. I really have no idea why I'm doing this to myself. I LOVE being lazy, eating junk food, and not sweating. Therefore, training for and running a marathon is completely counter intuitive. But alas, I press forward.

Following Red Rock, I took a nice week-long break from running. But with the Las Vegas Rock 'n' Roll Marathon only about 11 weeks away, it's time to get serious about training.

The Vegas Rock 'n' Roll sounds like it'll be amazing. With bands and live entertainment at every water stop and the finish line located on the strip, this race is sure to be a blast. Shoot, they even have a minister running the race who will be marrying race participants along the course. Coolest wedding ever, right?!?

And if music, running Elvi, and free beer at the end isn't enough motivation to run this race, dear Ryan has decided that he will be taking on the half marathon. I couldn't be more proud!!!! Actually I could. If he ran the full marathon I'd be ecstatic, still, I'll take what I can get!

With all the extravagance the LV Rock 'n' Roll Marathon is sure to deliver, I'm very very VERY nervous about running it. There is a time limit of 5 1/2 hours.

If you may recall, I barely pulled myself across the finish line in Ogden within 6 hours. In order to meet the cut-off in Vegas, I'll have to shave 45 seconds off of each mile. That's no small feat.

Can I really drop 30 minutes from my marathon time? I really don't know. That's a lot of time to shave off.

In my defense, I have gotten faster since Ogden. I've also decided on a better game plan and will not be stopping so long at each of the aid stations. Neither will stop and frolic with my family and friends along the course for too long. And most importantly, I will be running at a much lower altitude.

When I ran my first 10 miler in Vegas, I ran it in about 1 hour. Subsequent 10 milers back home in the Wasatch mountains, it's taken me about twice as long to run that same distance. Therefore, I'm hoping that training at higher altitude then racing at sea level will greatly increase my speed.

But just to make sure, I think Ry and I will be heading down to Vegas in November to run my 20 miler. If I can run my 20 down in Vegas in a reasonable amount of time, then I won't stress over the 5 1/2 time limit. But until then, you'd better believe I'll be training my butt off and integrated lots of quality speed work into my training schedule. And of course, prayers, good vibes, and well wishes are sure to help and most definitely welcomed!!!

Here we go again...

186 Miles

Our 186 mile sun to snow journey is complete!!!

This was probably one of the best and worst weekends of my life. I had an awesome time down at Red Rock. I couldn't have asked for a better team.

The Snow Team is one of the most hilarious groups of people I've ever had the pleasure of being stuck inside a truck with for nearly 30 hours.

And the Sun Team is probably the most badass group of runners on the planet!!! How the hell do you run sub 7 minute miles let alone in 90+ degree weather?!? You guys are INSANE!!!!

I am more tired, exhausted, and sore than I was after my marathon. This weekend completely drained me and yet, all I can think about is doing it again next year!

Moab anyone??!!!??

A Major Award

Remember that horrific 10K fun run I did back in Vegas? And remember how I had placed in my division but they screwed me out of an award?

Well, I ended up emailing the race director to complain about not getting an award. I told him that I'm generally not bratty and whiney but since this will probably be the only award I EVER win in a race, I really really REALLY wanted that certificate to commemorate my awesomeness.

He emailed me back saying that he'd check with the other race coordinators and then get back to me. I didn't hear anything from him for about a month. Then last week, we receive a notice in our mail box saying that we had a package waiting for us at the post office. I go to the post office, wait in line for like 9 hours since they only ever have one employee working at any given time, and I finally pick up my package. I tear open the envelope and what to my wandering eyes should appear??!?!?!!???

MY AWARD CERTIFICATE!!!!!!!!!!!!!

What's the Filly Division, you ask? Simply put, it's the plus-size division. That's right. It's a nice name for that fat girl division.

Out of all the females 160+ pounds, I placed 3rd. Woo hoo! Give it up for the Fillies!!!!

I don't care what division this award is from. I'll take it!!! It's sure to be the one and only award I ever receive throughout my entire running career. Ain't gonna see me running no 1 hour 7 minute half-marathons any time soon! Shoot...

*******SIDE NOTE*******

I don't think 160 pounds is fat at all. In fact, it's TINY!!! I would love to weigh 160! Though Ryan, bless his heart, said that if I were ever 160 pounds he'd divorce me 'cause I'd look too frail and disgustingly skinny. Not to worry, Ry Guy. These Polynesian curves ain't goin' anywhere!

Hobbler Half

Since completing the Ogden marathon, I've been addicted to running. I made it a goal to do at least one race every month this summer, and so far, I've done just that.

This past weekend, I ran the Hobbler Half-marathon in Hobble Creek Canyon. I had signed up for this race about a week or two after my marathon, while I was still on a my runner's high. Thinking I had plenty of time to recover from my full and then start training again for this half, I took it easy.

Well, turns out I took it too easy.

I've been running just about every day since Ogden, but I hadn't really been training as intensely as I had with TNT. Instead, I ran anywhere between 3-5 miles on the weekdays and then maybe 6 miles on Saturday mornings...if I happened to wake up in time. I never did any long runs and I never did any speedwork.

Then, I went to Powell for a week. I told myself that while I was there, I'd swim laps every day and do Ab Ripper X. I think I swam twice and did Ab Ripper once. By the time we got back from Powell, it was too late. D-day. Time for my race.

My goal was just to make it to the 10 mile mark because once there, I only had 3 more miles left to go. Piece of cake, right? WRONG!

I could barely make it to mile 6!! That's not true. Mile 1-5 were actually quite relaxing...except that I had drunk so much water that morning, waiting around for the race to start, that I had to pee like 19 different times along the way. (And no, I did not have to squat in any bushes. Luckily they had some port-a-pottys along the route.)

So after mile 5, my goal changed: I was just gonna take it a mile at a time until mile marker 10. If I took it easy up until 10, I figured that I would have recovered enough to finish strong through the last 5k. Not so.

I get to mile 10 and decide to pick up my pace. That lasted maybe about a quarter of a mile until I was once again exhausted. I finally made it to mile 11 where a kid with a hose sprayed me as I passed. I thought it would be ultra refreshing since it was like a bazillion degrees outside. Instead, it was miserable! The freakin' demon child blasted me right in the face with the full force of a water canon and then kept spraying me until I was completely drenched. My shoes squished, my hair was sopping, and I'm pretty sure my glasses broke.

By some miracle, I make it to mile 12 without chafing or getting any blisters from my soggy clothing. I rev up the engines and then pull out everything left in my tank. I'm finally about 1/4 mile out and I can see the huge, blue inflatable finish line. And of course, hearing all the cheers and shouts, I get motivated enough to kick it in to gear.

A few meters from crossing the finish line, I spot the Schoenstar, Lollipop, and my best friend Tara and her kids. They're all yelling and screaming and cheering me on. I get ready to sprint the rest of the way when little Lolli comes running out to meet me. She grabs my leg, mid stride, and squeals "I hold you!" meaning, she wanted me to pick her up.

So, as cheesy and as sickeningly sweet as it was, I gathered her up into my arms, with every last bit of strength I had, and ran with her across the finish line at 2 hours 41 minutes...then I collapsed.
I seriously felt more beat up after that race than I did after finishing the full. Even now, 3 days later, my quads still radiate with pain.

Being a procrastinator is going to be the death of me. Next time I WILL train before attempting to run 13.1 miles.

PS
The Kenyan who won the race, Patrick Rotich, finished in 1 hour 7 minutes. INSANE!!!!!!!!!! Though, if I weighed 114 pounds, I could run fast, too! Stupid skinny people.

10K Fun Run in the Sun

While we were in Vegas last weekend, I decided that I might as well sign up for a race and make the most of my holiday weekend. I even talked my brother into running with me.

He had run with me in the past while I was training for my marathon, and it was really fun chatting and running with him along the Provo River Parkway trail. However, Jord was a little worried about the race since it was a 10k, and the farthest Jordan had ever run before was about 4.5 miles.

I assured him that since we'd be in Las Vegas at a lot lower altitude, he'd be golden. I was even stoked about the elevation drop. I signed up for the race thinking I was gonna set a new 10k personal record.

So race day rolls around and we're pumped!

We cruise up to the packet pickup and Jordan looks out along the horizon and notices a few mountains. He asks me, "Are we running out to those?" I take a a glance in the direction of the mountains, snicker a little bit and dismiss his comment by saying, "Yeah right! That's hella far out there."

We grab our bibs, line up at the starting line, and get ready to do work. Gun fires and we're off!

Coming off the starting line, we pound out about half a mile through a straightaway, then we round a corner to the right. As soon as I come around the corner, I'm face to face with a HUGE hill that leads straight up to the base of those very mountains I scoffed at just minutes before.

The entire time I'm thinking, "There's no way we're running all the way up this hill. The course will turn any second...any second now...wait for it...wait for it..."

No, no. It never turned. We went all the way up. I ran a 2 mile, 3.5% grade hill. If you don't know what that means, let me break it down. It was a long-ass, big-ass hill!!!! I was dying!! So much for that personal record. I was just hoping not to fall into an exhausted heap along the side of the road! And to make matters worse, Jordan decides he's gonna show off and run like a freakin' cheetah. So I'm left to suffer all by myself. I didn't even have my iPod to distract me from my misery.

Finally --FINALLY--I crest the hill and the course turns again to the right. And the second I round that corner, I'm met but yet ANOTHER huge hill! At that point, I just wanted to turn around and walk back to the start, get in my car, and drive back home to Utah.

Really, we're gonna run this entire race up hill? 6 miles of hell? REALLY?!? And better yet, this second hill is gonna be a 5% grade?

Why does Baby Jesus hate me so much sometimes???

I battle up the second hill, give the mountain side the finger, turn around and book it back down. I don't even know where Jordan is at this point. I don't even care. I'm over this stupid race. So pissed! Why the hell didn't I look at the course map before I signed up for the race? There's what? One mountain in Las Vegas and I had to run up it????

I get back down the mountain, cross the finish line at 1 hour and 14 minutes, 5 minutes past my goal time. Lame!!!

And Jordan? Oh yeah, he finished in 55 minutes, earning him the 1st place spot in his division. His first ever 10k, and only his 2nd ever official race and he places first in his division?!? Super show off.

But come to find out, even with my slow time, I actually placed 3rd in my division. Awesome, right??? Too bad they only awarded 1st and 2nd place with a certificate.

Once again I get screwed.

Come on Baby Jesus!!!!

Run Redrock

So I've already committed myself to my next adventure: the Redrock Relay.

12 people. 24 hours. 180 miles.

Awesome, right?????

I can't wait! We have a super sweet team! I've even talked my dear husband into joining!

I'm excited to spend time with everyone and hopefully watch a potential romance unfurl!!!! It'll be like our very own reality show!!

But in the meantime, we need 2 volunteers to help out at aid stations along the way and 2 big ass vans or SUV's to transport our team and gear. Anyone??????

Ogden Marathon May 15, 2010

All those months of training have finally come to an end...for now! All I can think about is my next race. My next marathon. My next endurance event. Running the Ogden Marathon was one of the best things that's ever happened to me, and definitely one of the most excruciatingly painful!

When you have a child, the doctors pump you full of drugs and pain killers. During a marathon, you have nothing to help ease the pain of exhaustion, dehydration, and fatigue. All you've got is Powerade, water, and a few gel packs if you're lucky.

But similar to pregnancy and child birth, crossing the finish line after having run 26.2 miles is one of the most wonderful, invigorating, and joyous moments of your life. And again, if you're lucky, you'll have your entire family there, waiting to hug, kiss, and high-five the crap outta you!

I don't want this post to be too incredibly long, but I've decided to break down the marathon by mileage as well as include a description of the pre and post race events. So without further ado, I give you, The Ogden Marathon Weekend!

Race Expo
About a week ago, Stephanie lent me the book My Life on the Run. It's written by Bart Yasso, Chief Running Officer of Runner's World magazine, Running USA Hall of Champions inductee, and all around running bad ass! His book was so inspirational that you could imagine my delight when I found out that the legend himself would be at the Ogden expo. The perfect way to start my marathon!

Team Inspiration Dinner
Carbo loading on pasta, the team and I gathered together for one last hoorah before our big adventure. We got some great advice from Coach Dave and also heard from some cancer survivors who's lives we were hoping to help with the $77,000 our team raised. GO TEAM!

Day of: 4am-7am
Running on nerves and pure adrenaline, it didn't even phase me that I had barely gotten 2 hours of sleep that night. I was so excited, scared, and ready to run this thing. Ry dropped me off at the shuttle stop and wished me luck. Since he had been researching the race route and spectator spots the night before, he informed me that he may not be able to get up the canyon at all to cheer me on until about mile 23. The roads would be closed for the race and Ry didn't really know how else to get up there. I was pretty disappointed but gave him a kiss and told him I'd just see him when I could.

With that, I loaded the bus with some team mates and made the long ascent up the canyon to the starting line. And let me tell you, it was a long-ass bus ride! As we're driving, I'm getting even more antsy and nervous. We just kept driving and driving! Finally, about 45 minutes later, we arrive at the starting line. No going back now!

Starting Gun 7am
At the starting line, there were a bunch of different pace flags that participants we supposed to line up behind according to their anticipated mile pace. The flags started at 6 minute miles and went in 1 minute increments all the way up to 10. Since there was no "Just Finish!" pace flag, some team mates and I lined up behind all the 10 minuters. And then the gun went off...

Mile 1-5
Took me a while to warm up. Being up in the canyon, it was pretty chilly. So, it took me a while to get my blood circulating as well as get into my running groove. I also had to pee super bad by the second mile. Good news though, I didn't have to poo myself, which I was really nervous about since I still hadn't unloaded all that pasta from the night before. TMI?

Mile 5-13
Finally finding my groove, I locked into my stride and cruised into the half way point, about 2 minutes per mile quicker than I thought! And what to my wandering eyes did appear as I circled around the 13.1 mile aid station??? A mohawked Ryan, bedecked in his purple Team Claire shirt!I was so surprised to see him since he really made it sound like he wouldn't be able to make it up the canyon to see me due to the road closures. But, there he was!!! And there I was! Mile 13 and I felt as cool as a cucumber. Even Ry was impressed at the ease in which I cruised into the water stop. I grabbed some water, gave Ry a kissy, then went on my merry way!

Mile 13-17
This was the most stressful part of the course. Time restrictions required that all runners make it to mile 17 by 11am. That's about 4 hours to get from Eden to the mouth of Ogden canyon. As I'm cruising down, I'm making great time and only have about 1 more mile to go. I come around the bend of Pineview Reservoir and about a half mile away, I can make out a purple mass. Then, I hear the yelling and shouting begin. It's my whole family! I make it to mile 17 with loud cheers, high-fives, and even a victory tunnel provided by Team Claire! I give Lollipop a kiss for good luck then take off again. Turns out, Lolli was sad to see me go. Having waited around for me for about an hour, she wasn't happy with getting to see Mama for only about 2 minutes. Poor girl!

Mile 17-21
Coming off the high from seeing my family at mile 17, I felt all right starting my descent through the canyon. But at about mile 19, I felt my body start breaking down. Mile 20, my skin started clamming up and I could feel bile creep up the back of my throat. I knew it was coming. And sure enough...

Mile 21
I HIT THE WALL!!!! It was all I could do to drag my lifeless body to the aid station at mile 21. A military volunteer held out some water for me and instead of grabbing the cup, I clung to her hand. She wrapped her arm around waist, held me up, and helped me walk over to a chair. I chugged a bunch of water, took another gel pack, and tried to catch my breath. The volunteer was so sweet. She kept asking me if I needed anything or if I needed her to call anyone for help. After a few minutes, I summoned up every ounce of strength I had left, thanked the volunteers, and continued down the canyon to finish it.

Mile 21-23
Not too long after my leaving the aid station, I saw a purple shirt running toward me. Coach Dave!!! I could practically see his wings and halo, as he was surely heaven sent!!!! If Coach Dave hadn't gotten there just in time, I probably would have called it quits. After hitting the wall at 21, I honestly didn't have much left in me, regardless of how badly I wanted to finish. With Coach Dave at my side, encouraging me and taking my mind off the pain surging through my body, he got me out of the canyon and to my awaiting fans.

Mile 23
Team Claire was out in full force!!!! I even got a custom made sign! It's amazing what a tube of lipstick and a pair of bare baby buns can do for your morale! With the support and cheers from Team Claire, I got my second wind and rushed off to complete the last 5k of the race.

Last 5k
Running through town, I actually caught up with one of my team captains and another team member. We walked together for about the next 2 miles when I finally found the strength and will power to start running again and finish strong. About a mile out, I started picking up speed. At this point in the game, a 13 minute mile was pretty darn fast for me!!!! I just wanted to be done with this stupid race!!!!!!

Final Stretch
Those last .2 miles are BRUTAL!!!!! Luckily, running right through town, I was met by cheering spectators who lined the streets. In tears, I pushed and pushed closer to the finish line. I could see the mob of purple up ahead. My family.

Around me, I hear other team mates who had already finished, shouting my name.

Closer. Closer. Almost there.

I can see my husband. I can hear my uncle.

The announcer congratulates the runner in front of me who has just finished.

Crying. Sobbing. Balling. I'm in pain. I'm ecstatic.

I cross the finish line.

If you asked me at that very moment if I'd ever run another marathon again, I'd laugh in your face, between all my hacking and coughing, and tell you "hell no!" But now that I'm rested, re-hydrated, and back to my right frame of mind, I can't wait to do another one!

All the training, all the suffering, and all the blisters were more than worth it.

At this point in my life, running my first marathon was the absolute most difficult and challenging thing I've ever done. But up there with graduating college, marrying my husband, and having my daughter, running my first marathon was also one of my absolute greatest life accomplishments.

And to everyone who helped me get here, I can't thank you enough. I'm indebted to you for your love, encouragement, donations, and support that you lent throughout this entire journey. I am forever grateful. I couldn't have done it without you.




Until my next marathon...