I DID IT!!

"You must do the thing which you think you cannot do."

~ Eleanor Roosevelt

I DID IT!! I completed the half marathon on Sunday (all 13.1 miles!) and couldn't have done it without your support and encouragement. We lucked out with the weather too - it poured rain on Saturday and Monday but the weather couldn't have been better on Sunday ... hurray! It was such a beautiful run among the redwood trees, rivers and creeks. The day before the run, we drove the route of the half marathon to see what we were getting into! Check out the photo - so beautiful!

Below are a couple photos of me and the fam trying to get amped up right before the run. My sisters and I all bought what we refer to as our "running earrings" the day before the run. I found out through my aunt Vicki's best friend, Nancy, that Vicki would always change her earrings to her "running earrings" before she'd go running. Aunt Vicki lost her battle to cancer 2 1/2 years ago and we miss her so much. In her memory, my sisters and I bought our "running earrings" and plan to wear them every time we run.

The run started at 9 am sharp. A samba band played at the starting line to help amp up the runners. It was fun. Shortly into the run, runners started to encourage one another saying things like "Great job!" or "Keep it up!" or "Looking good!". All the Team in Training participants would shout "Go Team!" to other Team in Training runners. There was great energy and encouragement all around which I'm sure helped a lot of people reach the finish line (I know it helped me!).

My dad and sister, Adria, reached the finish line in no time. They partnered up, ran together and rocked it - I was so proud! Oscar and my lil sister, Danielle completed the journey with me - and we all did it! =)

A crowd of people gathered round to cheer finishers through the finish line. As I got closer, I thought of those who have survived cancer, those currently battling it, and those who've lost their lives to the battle. I thought of my aunt Vicki, my dad, my grandma, and so many others affected by this powerful disease. I thought of the patients receiving services and the cancer research being supported by the money I've raised with your generous donations. Thank you, thank you, thank you for all your support!

It was so exciting and emotional crossing that finish line. Shortly after I finished, I saw Amara (along with my mom, dad, and Adria). She had such a huge smile on her face! Thanks to Jeanine, Amara just learned how to give "high five". I ran up to her, gave her a big kiss and asked her to give me high five which she did laughing - such a perfect way to end the half marathon. It was such an amazing feeling of accomplishment and to have completed the run with my family was even more exciting. Oh yeah, we got some pretty medals for completing the run too!

After the run, everyone was extremely relaxed on the drive home (half were asleep!). Once we got home, I stretched, showered (man did that feel good), and then enjoyed some homemade margaritas and guacamole, chips, and salsa with the family on my parents' back deck (followed by a yummy dinner!). We went to bed around 9 pm that night and were out like lights.

I've already been asked what event I am going to run next - ha! I enjoy running shorter distances and feel it's easier on me physically than the long distance runs. I don't know if I'll do a half marathon again (I'm not ruling it out) but I am planning to do a 10k run (about 6 miles) in Santa Cruz at the end of July.

"There will be days you don't think you can run a marathon. There will be a lifetime of knowing you have."

~ Unknown

Stuffy gym...

My schedule is a little off this week so today was actually a run day for me. I went to the gym during lunch b/c it was still a little too hot outside at noon to go running. Well my gym wasn't that much better. It seemed really stuffy today and humid - yuck. I probably would've been better off running outside. I seem to keep cooler with the breeze, etc.

Anyhow, I get really hot when I work out and have actually gotten to the point of feeling faint (it's been a long, long time since this has happened though). Today while running on the treadmill, I was uncomfortably hot and felt like I was breathing in my neighbor's carbon dioxide. I wanted to run for an hour today but only got in 30 minutes - frustrating! I would take running outdoors over running in the gym anyday! I did, however, run faster today than I normally do - so that was kinda cool.

After my workout, I did my core exercises and stretched. I then scurried home to shower so I could get back on the computer and finish out my work day. 10 days 'til the event!

Still running!!

Eeeek!! I've been horrible at updating my blog - it's been a week and a half! Let me see if I can give a quick summary of what I've been doing since my last post.

Sat, 4/11: I ran for 80 minutes down at the San Mateo waterfront. The first half of the run I did run/walk intervals (10 min running/2 min walking). After 40 minutes, I was thinking "there is no way I'm going to make it to 80!" I then started to run for 8 min and walked for 2 until I got to 81 minutes. I did it! I stretched and did my regular core exercises before heading home. I showered up and headed up to Humboldt with Oscar and Amara to visit my parents for the week.

Sun, 4/12: Rest day.

Mon, 4/13: I planned to do yoga but didn't.

Tues, 4/14: Tuesdays are normally track nights with the team but since I was out of town, I decided to run at a local high school track. Normally the track runs are fairly short runs. Oscar came with me to the track. We did a mile jog to warm up. After the warm up, we stretched our legs. I then ran straight for 2.25 miles (about 25 minutes). After the run, I stretched and did my regular core exercises.

Wed, 4/15: I did an hour of yoga (with my mom!) =)

Thurs, 4/16: I woke up early and went running with my dad at a local trail near my parents' home. I ran for 72 minutes, running for 10 mins, then walking for 2. I was experiencing shin splints part way through my run which was pretty uncomfortable. I decided to push through it and they started to feel better as I ran longer. After the run, my shins felt bruised when I rubbed them - weird! Fortunately, it went away after a couple days.

Fri, 4/17: Rest day.

Sat, 4/18: Rest day.

Sun, 4/19: I was supposed to run for 10 miles this weekend but it was SO freakin' hot on Sunday, I didn't go running. There was no way I was going to run in that heat. I really should've gone running on a treadmill at the gym but instead, after work, Oscar, Amara and I did our monthly Costco run. =)

Mon, 4/20: Since I didn't get in my long weekend run, I decided to run at the gym after work - it was way too hot to run outdoors. Normally Monday would be a cross-training day, not a run day. I ran for 8 miles using the run/walk strategy (10 min/2 min). After the workout, I stretched and did my regular core exercises. It felt great! I also didn't feel any discomfort in my shins.

Tues, 4/21: Today is a normal track night with the team. It was extremely hot out today and I was not going to run outside in this heat so I decided to skip out on track and go to the cool gym instead. I went to the gym tonight and worked out on the elliptical machine for 50 minutes. I did an ab workout afterwards and got some good stretching in.

It's hard to believe the half marathon is just a week and a half away!! I'm excited and ready to say "I did it!" =)

2.25 miles straight

I have been bad at updating my blog daily so here is the update for Wednesday, April 8th. On Wednesdays now, my coach encourages us to do an easy run followed up with cross-training. During my lunch on Wednesday, I went to the gym. I ran 2.25 miles on the treadmill without walking. I was pretty proud of myself for that! Normally, I run 8-10 min and then walk 2 min but I figured since the run was short, why not try and see how far I can go without walking (I won't use this strategy during the half marathon of course). It felt great and I easily could've run longer but I set the treadmill for 25 mins and then followed it up with a 5 min cool-down.

After the run, I worked out on the stationary bike for 20 minutes (almost 5 miles). I then did crunches, planks, and stretched. I headed home, showered, and got back to work.

Track in the rain?

Track is on - rain or shine. Well, tonight at 6pm it was pouring in San Mateo (we've had scattered showers all day) so I decided to skip out on running in the rain (how fun can that possibly be?), decided I'd work out indoors, and went to the gym instead. Since Tuesdays are always "short run" days, I ran 3 miles on the treadmill (I walked for 2 mins after each mile). After the workout, I did planks, crunches, lots of stretching - and decided to call it a day - I was tired!

Late night at the gym

Today was a cross-training day and I'm really happy because I finally feel I have all my energy back - yay!! I wanted to get to a gym class by 6pm but didn't end up leaving the office until after 6 - never fails. So I came home, ate a yummy chicken and broccoli dinner Oscar made, played with baby girl and headed to the gym after she was tucked snuggly into bed. I got to the gym a little before 9pm. It's actually a really nice time to go because there are not many people there (just the die hards like me - haha, kidding!!).

I did a "cross country" workout on the elliptical machine for 55 minutes. It was a really great workout - challenging. I got to catch up on the latest with the NCAA championship win, Chris Brown in court, Obama searching for a church, and a cute story about Benjie Molina and his family. I also found it interesting that the woman on the machine next to me made sure to hold on to the elliptical handles with papertowels so her hands didn't get germs on them. I'm not sure she was aware that right next to the paper towel dispenser was a spray bottle with sanitary cleaner - haha. That was my entertainment for the night.

After my cardio workout, I did planks (flat and side planks), crunches, and lots of stretching. My quads were sore after Saturday's run so it felt good to get some good stretching in tonight. Tomorrow is track night with the team - I always look forward to that actually (I really do, I swear!).

My fundraising is going so great - thank you again for all your support. I only have $293 to go!

Not 8, but 6!

Hola! I've been out sick this week - started feeling a cold coming on during my flight home on Saturday. I haven't run in a week. Good news is, I'm feeling a lot better now but still a bit low energy. Today, I was supposed to run 8 miles. Well, I did 6. It was a beautiful sunny day and I went running down at Crystal Springs. I ran the first mile at a pace of 10 min 43 sec. I felt the first mile went by really quickly and easily and the rest would be a piece of cake. I stretched my legs after the mile warm-up and then continued on the remaining 5.

Running the first mile was no problem. After that, I didn't run more than 6 or 7 minutes before walking for 2 minutes. I felt I had no energy It makes a big difference not running for a week! It feels really good to be at it again and I'm looking forward to getting my energy back. I was fortunate to not get sick all winter - damn airplanes!! Oh yeah, my knees felt fine during today's run and haven't been uncomfortable since.

So the event is 4 weeks out and my fundraising is going really terrific - I feel very fortunate to have so much support from everyone. Thank you, thank you!! I have a bunch of checks to send in this week taking me to only $393 from my goal. I'm getting so close - yay! Thank you all for doing such a great thing!

I'm still not sure how I'm going to complete 13.1 miles on May 3rd but I figure it's just a litte more than twice what I did today, right?! I can do it - even if it means I'll walk more than I expect to. My goal is just to get my butt across that finish line while the sun is still up. =)

5 weeks left!

Geez, I realize I haven't posted anything since 3/19! I've been pretty good at sticking to my training regimen, although I didn't get my long run in this past weekend. I flew to IL for work and returned Saturday afternoon - very quick trip. The jet lag was hard for me this trip - not catching up on my sleep with that 2 hour time difference. I was so beat when I got home and also felt I was coming down with a cold. My throat was scratchy and I was exhausted. I only slept 5-6 hours Thursday and Friday nights and also experienced jetlag with the 2 hour time difference. So I didn't run on Saturday and also skipped my cross-training workout today since I wasn't feeling 100%. I plan on going to my team track meet tomorrow night and will continue with my scheduled workout routine throughout the rest of the week. I can't believe - only 5 weeks left 'til the half marathon! I have $900 left to raise.... eek!

Run in the sun

Today was such a beautiful day! The sun was shining so bright and it felt like it was 70 degrees. During my lunch break, I headed to the San Mateo waterfront. I was feeling really sluggish during my run today. My knees were (are) still sore from Tuesday's run so I think that made me more sluggish too. Once I got a few minutes into my run and stretched, it got more comfortable. I ran today for 45 minutes. During the run, I only walked 4 minutes (two 2 minute intervals) and my legs were pretty sore afterwards. I had to rush home so Oscar could leave for work so I stretched and did my core exercises once I got home. Tomorrow is a rest day which I always look forward to (and so does my body, I'm sure!). =)

Yoga Day

This is a quick entry before I go start a movie - but I did an hour of yoga today and it felt great. My knees are still bothering me a bit so I am going to lace up my shoes tomorrow and see if that makes a difference during my run.

Track - St Patty's Day

Tonight was team track night which are typically fairly short runs that switch up from week to week. The team met at the College of San Mateo track at 6:15pm sharp. We jogged a 3/4 mile warm-up and then stretched before our run.

Tonight's run was broken down two segments:

1) Strikes: We learned that a good "event" pace (marathon or half marathon) is to have your feet hit or "strike" the ground 180 times/minute. Regardless of whether or not you run faster or slower, you want to take smaller strides so that your feet strike the ground 180 times per minute.

We ran for 8 minutes around the track. Partway through the 8 minute run, Coach blew the whistle which meant to begin counting our individual foot strikes. We'd count every time our right foot struck the ground, then multiplied that number by two to get the total # of foot strikes per minute. After the minute, he blew the whistle again which meant to stop counting. I was at 184 strikes/minute. We ran for a couple more minutes and then Coach blew the whistle again. This meant to start counting again and if you weren't at 180 strikes/minute during the first round, try to pace yourself and take shorter strides so that you'd end up at 180 strikes/minute at the end of this round. This time I was at 174 strikes/minute.

2) The second part of the track run was broken down as follows:

200 meter run (at event pace)
100 meter walk (to recover)
400 meter run (at event pace)
100 meter walk (to recover)
200 meter run (at event pace)
100 meter walk (to recover)
400 meter run (at event pace)
100 meter walk (to recover)
200 meter run (at event pace)
100 meter walk (to recover)

We did this for a total of 20 minutes. We then walked 2 laps (1/2 mile) to cool down.

After the run, we stretched and did our regular core exercises, crunches, and push-ups. It was really, really cold at this point (after 8pm) so everyone was ready to head home for a hot shower! This is exactly what I did.

I noticed my knees bothering me a bit during my run and they are sore right now. I just iced them. I think my shoes were not tied tight enough tonight. I haven't untied them for a couple runs and just slip them on and off. I noticed that my feet were kind of sliding a bit to the sides which is why I think this might have affected my knees. I had no problems on or after Saturday which was my long run. So I plan to lace them up tighter for my run on Thursday and hope that's the end of that.

Tomorrow is a cross-training day so until then ... goodnight!

Cross-training

Yesterday was a rest day and today was a cross training day. I went to the gym during my lunch and did 50 mins on the elliptical machine. I did the "cross country" workout that had a lot of inclines. It was good. I always catch up on the latest in news and politics when I use the elliptical - the TVs are in front of the machines. After the workout, I stretched and did some oblique exercises before heading home to shower and get back to my workday.

Awesome Run

Today, the team was scheduled for an "on your own" run versus a "team" run. We were supposed to run for 60 minutes. When Oscar got home from work a little after 5pm, I left for my run. Although it was cold and windy, I went down to the San Mateo waterfront. It's nice because it's so close to home - less than 5 mins away. The weather actually felt good while I was running - by body kept warm.

My run today was supposed to be 60 mins and I made sure to remember the watch this time. I started off jogging a 12 minute warm-up then stretched before continuing on the 60 minute run. I wanted to run longer intervals today so I decided to run for 8 mins followed by 2 mins of walking (although I ran the final interval for 15 mins) - taking me to a 63 minute run (not including the 12 minute warm-up). My arms were red because it was so cold out and my skin was frozen to the touch but my core was warm from the run and it felt good.

After I cooled down, I did my regular core strength exercises on the grass. I always do these when I run (plank, side planks, bicycle) and also did a whole lot of stretching. It felt good. Running is such a natural high - it trips me out what it does to the body and its chemicals.

I returned home 2 hours later enjoyed my shower, tucked Amara into bed, ate some good dinner and am getting ready to watch Mad TV. Goodnight!

More running, less walking

Today was a run day so during my lunch, I headed down to the San Mateo waterfront (it's just about 1 mile from home). It was another beautiful day and the sun was shining bright. I am running more and walking less now so I can tell my body is building up a tolerance for running longer (is that the right way to say that?!). Today I ran for 5-6 mins and would then walk for 1minute. I repeated that for 40 mins.

After the run, I did core strength exercises on the grass and am able to hold some of the poses (planks) longer than I was a week or two ago. I am starting to feel my ab muscles coming back together again after having Amara - I was starting to think that wasn't possible!! After the exercises, I did my regular stretching routine while soaking up a few more minutes of sun and then headed home, showered, and got back to my workday.

Ahhhhh....yoga.....

Yesterday was a cross-training day so I decided to do an hour of yoga - I forgot how great yoga feels. Years back, I did yoga 2-3 times/week and am really glad I'm getting back into it - especially after having Amara. It's feels so good (and rejuvenating!). My calves and quads were very sore yesterday from running hills the night before so yoga felt really good and stretched all my muscles which they needed.

Hills!!

I forgot to update my blog last night - I'm slippin'!! So last night I went to the gym around 8:30pm and did a pretty challenging workout on the elliptical machine for 45 minutes. Afterwards, I stretched a LOT, did an ab workout and headed home for a nice shower.

Tonight was track with the team - 6:15 sharp. We are now meeting at College of San Mateo instead of Burlingame High School. They have such a beautiful track on a hill overlooking the bay. It was freezing!!! But at least it wasn't raining, right? After running a mile warm-up (4 laps around the track) we stretched, did some drills on the football field, and got ready for hills! This was our first time running hills. There was a paved hill near the track and it was steep! Fortunately, none of the hills in my half marathon are as steep as this one but it's good practice.

We ran up the hill 12 times and it was definitely challenging but I ran the entire time. It really started burning about 3/4 way up the hill - but I survived. Half way through our run the moon started coming up over the hill in the distance. It was a full moon and so bright shining on the water. I am also super happy because my knees aren't giving me anymore problems so I think that is behind me now, finally. =)

After the run, we stretched and did our regular core strengthening exercises (plank, bridge, bicycle). It was almost 8:30 and completely dark except for the full moon shining on us (there are no lights at this track). It was also a very clear night (did I mention freezing!?) so the stars were shining bright. It was a nice way to end the day.

4 Miles!

Whew! Saturdays are always the "long run" day. I ran 4 miles today at Sawyer Camp trail at the Crystal Springs reservoir. It was such a beautiful day! Oscar worked until 5pm so as soon as he got home I headed to the trail - I was racing against the sun and good news is tomorrow the time changes so we'll have an extra hour of daylight. I ran more today and walked less - it felt challenging but doable. The trail had a lot of inclines which I never noticed much when I've walked the trail. It was a good challenge. Oh - and I haven't been feeling any more knee pain - let's hope it stays this way! =)

It was such a beautiful run - the sun was going down and the reservoir looked so peaceful and untouched. Just as I was approaching my 4-mile mark (and back to the car), it was getting pretty dark but fortunately there were still quite a few people on the trail so I felt safe. When I got home, I stretched and did my core strength training exercises (but not before kissing my baby girl!). I commented to Oscar, "Running feels good." I told him that for me, the first 1-2 miles are the most difficult - the rest goes by fast (although I'm nothing close to 13 miles yet! LOL). But it definitely helps to get over that hump during the run and then get into the groove. Tomorrow is a rest day so I'll be sure to get in some good stretching. Hopefully the sun is shining again!

Update

Hi all! I've been awful at updating my blog this week - eek! Well here I am on Thursday evening - just wrapped up a day of work. I wasn't great at getting all my runs in this week! Tuesday it was pouring rain and even though we are supposed to run rain or shine, I missed Tuesday's track workout because I didn't leave the office until almost 7pm. I did cross-training on both Monday and Wednesday and also got a run (jog) in today while the sun was out! This time, I ran for 4 mins/walked 1.5 mins for 40 mins in total. I ran down by the waterfront again - I like that there is a trail which is better for my knees. I have a team run in Pacifica at 8am Saturday morning - 4 miles! I hope to make the run but have my annual company party Friday night so we'll see. =) If I don't get my butt up early enough on Saturday, I will be sure to get a 4 mile run in sometime that day. I am almost half way to my goal for fundraising ($1000 so far and my goal is $2400) with less than 8 weeks left - thank you for all your support!

Training Day 16

I am updating my blog a day late but yesterday was another run day (Friday was a rest day). I did the same run I did on Thursday down at the San Mateo waterfront. I jog/walked in 3 min/1.5 min intervals for 35 minutes after a 10 minute warm-up jog. Lots of stretching before and after the run - knees are feeling so much better now too! I am really happy about that. It's amazing how much of a difference I already feel in my core after just running for a couple weeks. The core strength exercises probably have a lot to do with it too. Today was a rest day and tomorrow starts the week off with more cross training. Sorry so short today but have been working all day and it's time to go to bed!

Training Day 15

Okay, I am SUPER happy my knees seem to be getting better. They still feel a bit irritated but at least 80% better than they were a week or two ago. I jogged today at the San Mateo waterfront. The sun was out, although it was cold - but felt great. I jogged a 10 min warm-up, then stretched. I then started my run and did 3 min run/1.5 min walk intervals for 30 minutes. My knees felt fine during the run which I was very happy about. The difficult part was that I ran against the wind for 3/4 my run (including the warm-up). So I guess that made the workout that much better physically (although harder!). I listened to my iPod which we aren't able to do during our team workouts - so that was nice and made the run more enjoyable. I must admit, however, that going through my head toward the end of my run was "there is no WAY I am going to be able to run 13 miles on May 3rd!" I kept thinking of my Aunt Vicki who passed away a little more than 2 years ago of cancer and that is what helped me finish my run (against the wind). I did a lot of great strength training exercises on this pad of grass right in front of the water which was very relaxing (did I tell you the sun was shining? =)) I also did some good stretches and just felt good all around afterwards. Tomorrow is a rest day which I am looking forward to! Okay, off to bed....

Training Day 14

So I woke up at 4am today with horrible knee pain - they were throbbing, especially my left knee. Oscar got up to get me 2 ibuprofen and that was all I needed; the pain went away and when I woke up this morning I felt fine. I haven't taken anything since. I did an hour of yoga today and it felt really good to stretch my legs. Tomorrow is another run day but my coach suggests I run on a trail versus pavement - it's a lot easier on the knees. So that is the plan. I am supposed to run/jog for 30-40 mins at an aerobic pace. I am going to try to do repetitions of 3 mins running/1.5 mins walking and see how I feel. I'll update my blog after tomorrow's run. Goodnight!

Training Day 13

Yay! I made it through tonight's run. We met at the Burlingame High School track and warmed up with a 1 mile jog. I was able to jog the entire mile straight, although it was a bit uncomfortable on my knees in the beginning. After the mile warm-up, we stretched and then ran 1.5 miles. I used the run/walk technique, running 2 mins and then walking 1 min. About 1/2 way through my run, my knees started to feel a lot better - I think once they got warmed up. I completed the 1.5 mile run and then walked for 1/2 mile to cool down. We did a lot of stretching and core strength exercises which felt so good!! My coach suggested that I ice my knees tonight just to be safe so I did that after I showered. So far, so good! He said if I am feeling a lot of pain tomorrow, that's not a good sign so I'm keeping my fingers crossed. Tomorrow is a cross-training day so I'll be up and at 'em in the morning heading to the gym. Goodnight!

Training Update Part III

So I got a second opinion on my insoles today and learned they were not right for my feet. Good news is I was able to return them. My shoes seem to be a great fit so that's good. My coach suggests that instead of running the 4/2 intervals (4 min running/2 min walking) that instead I do either 3/1.5 or 2/1 - at least until I feel ready to run longer. He doesn't want my knees to get injured again (and neither do I!). So tomorrow I plan to meet the team at the track and will do 2/1 for now. I am excited to get back into it. Hopefully all will go well. I'll write another update tomorrow night when I get home from track.

Training Update Part II

Good news (I think)!! My knees feel virtually pain free today. I haven't taken Advil or iced for a few days now and I am feeling that I will be able to start running again this week. Of course I plan to take it slow and also get the second opinion on the insoles (tomorrow) but I think my body is ready to get back into it. I sure have taken my knees for granted in recent years - wow, having knee pain is really no joke. But again, the pain I've encountered during the past two weeks is nothing compared to the pain caused by cancer and treatments. I am looking forward to getting back into the routine (paying close attention to my knees). The big event is only 10 weeks out!

Training Update

So it's been two weeks since the long Saturday run and the start of my knee pain.  Good news is that over the last day or two, they seem to be feeling a lot better.  I am not sure I'm ready to run yet but am going to try on Tuesday at track.  I am also going to get the second opinion on the insoles this week since I think I can at least run for 30 secs on a treadmill (so they can see how my feet land when I run).  Hopefully the knee pain will soon be behind me!  It has not been fun. 

Thank you so much for supporting me - I couldn't do this without you! 

Training Day 12

Okay, so I haven't updated my blog in a few days...because I haven't been training. This all really sucks!! It's so frustrating but my knees have hardly gotten any better. They actually hurt like hell! On Saturday, I went to the team run at Stanford to meet with my coach. He suggests I take 2 Advil 3 times/day for at least 7-10 days in order for the inflammation to go down. He also suggests I stretch even if I don't run and ice 2-3 times/day. I haven't done any type of exercise - besides stretching - since Thursday's walk. I don't feel like they've improved much at all really, so I am going to make an appointment to see a doctor. It sucks because I've missed an entire week of running and don't know when I'll be ready to run again but hopefully soon - the half marathon is only 10 1/2 weeks out!

Training Day 11

So here is an update on my knees. They are not getting better. Today I tried to run. I went down to Sawyer Camp trail at the Crystal Springs reservoir and after running for just a few seconds, I was in a lot of pain. There was no way I could do it. So I ended up walking 2 miles which was still uncomfortable but I did it, although I barely made it back to my car.

It seems that the walk today made my knees worse. Throughout the day the pain seemed to get worse. I started taking Advil today and icing them (I know I should've started icing them days ago!). I know they are definitely inflamed. I haven't gone to get a second opinion on the insoles because I won't be able to run on the treadmill (this is what they have you do so they can see how your feet land when you run).

Unless there is a dramatic improvement between now and Saturday, there is no way I'll be able to do the timed 5K run which I am super bummed about. My sister Adria, who is an avid runner and will also be running Ave of the Giants with me, suggests that I continue my cardio as long as the elliptical machine isn't causing me pain or discomfort. She said that once my knees heal (hopefully sooner than later!), I can get back into the running. I am just bummed because I know this is setting me back - I missed Tuesday's run at the track, wasn't able to run today, and will more than likely not be able to run on Saturday. So frustrating!!!

I just emailed my coach to see what he suggests. I am thinking that I'll see a doctor next week if my knees don't feel a lot better by then. Tomorrow is a scheduled "rest" day which is exactly what I plan to do. I will continue icing my knees and taking anti-inflammatory meds which will hopefully help. Sigh......

Training Day 10

My knees are still sore today but seem to be getting better slowly. I have removed the insoles from my shoes. My coach suggests I get a second opinion on them which I am going to do tomorrow. He also said there are several factors that can lead to knee pain so he wants me to go to Saturday's team run even if I don't run (although I hope to run it!) so that he can talk to me more about what I am feeling. I hope my knees will feel much better by Saturday.

So I went to the gym during my lunch today and did 40 mins on the elliptical machine. I didn't feel any pain since there was no pressure on my knees. It was a pretty intense workout, although not long. I followed the cardio up with crunches and a lot of stretching. It felt SO good to stretch! I've been drinking a lot of water today to make sure I stay hydrated - although I tend to drink a lot of water regardless.

Tomorrow is a scheduled "easy run" day. I am going to start out slow to see if I feel any pain. If not, I'll pick up the pace. I am supposed to run for 20-30 minutes tomorrow. So wish me luck! =)

Training Day 9

So...today was supposed to be a run day. Since Saturday, I've been feeling pain in both my knees - I started feeling the pain half way through my Saturday run. If I were to guess, I would say it's from either the insoles I was recommended for my feet or the fact that I've never run that long of a distance before or maybe both! It probably didn't help that I went out dancing in heels Saturday night either. =) Anyhow, I ran a few steps at home prior to heading to Burlingame High School this evening and realized there was absolutely no way I'd be able to run tonight. It was too painful. So instead, I took a bath (which my mentor said might have been the wrong thing to do for my knees ... oh great!). She suggested I email my coach since he's the best one to give me advice. I emailed him a few minutes ago and hope to hear back from him soon. This Saturday is a timed 5K (3.1 mile) run to determine how to break out the teams for the rest of the season. I want to make that run!! I plan to still do cross-training tomorrow as scheduled (I didn't feel any pain using the elliptical machine last night because it hardly puts any pressure on my knees). So I'll see what my coach replies with and hope my knees continue to get better sooner than later!!

Training Day 8

So today was a "cross-training" day meaning I should do any type of cardio or strength training besides running. I'd normally go to the gym in the morning but needed to catch up on my sleep - went out Saturday night! =) I left the office at 7pm, came home to catch up with the baby, fed her and put her to bed, then headed to 24Hour. I did 45 mins on the elliptical machine while watching Obama's first prime-time news conference. It was a good workout and went by fast. I then did crunches and a lot of stretching. It felt really good to stretch my legs, especially my hamstrings. They were still tight from Saturday's run. Tomorrow is a team run day - we'll be meeting at the Burlingame High School track at 6:15pm. Until then ........

Training Day 7

Today (Sunday) is a rest day - yay! I made sure to stretch and rest my muscles today and drank lots of water. I am not as sore today as I was yesterday. Good thing because I work out 4 straight days starting tomorrow. Bring it! =)

Training Day 6

So today was the first coach-led Saturday run. These are typically the longest runs of the week. We met at Stanford at 8am sharp and started off by warming up with a 3/4 mile jog. After the warm-up, my coach led us in stretches. After stretching, one of the coaches taught us about the run/walk strategy which they highly encourage, not only for the long Saturday runs but also for the actual event (marathon or half marathon). It allows us to maintain our momentum and endurance so we can cross the finish line - 13.1 miles is a long way (not to mention 26.2!!). We could choose from three groups this morning: 8 min run/2 min walk, 6/2, and 4/2 respectively. Being a beginner, I chose to join the 4/2 group. This means we would run 4 minutes and then walk for 2. We'd repeat this pattern until we completed the 3 miles.

So we were off.... and the first 4 minutes actually went by pretty fast and I was thinking, "Wow, this isn't so bad!". It was nice to have the 2 min walk before running again. The team captains would help keep our momentum by shouting, "You're doing great team - keep it up! We're almost done!" By the time we were on our fourth or fifth round of 4/2, I was getting tired for sure and was wondering how long we had run so far. Next thing I hear is one of the team captains shouting, "Team - see that stop sign up ahead? That's the end!". I must admit, the 3 miles went by faster than I had expected and it definitely helped talking with other teammates during the run - time passes much faster when I am not running alone. However, I was definitely ready to reach that stop sign! When we did, the coaches were there cheering all of us on. It was a nice way to end the run.

They had food and drinks for everyone at the finish - yogurt, granola, juice, coffee, water, bagels, fruit... I enjoyed the organic vanilla yogurt and granola with a few of my teammates. My legs were sore but stretching after the run helped. Kathleen, one of the honorees (the woman I ran with for a bit on Thursday) got up and read a letter from another one of the honorees, Doug. He's part of the San Jose chapter (not my chapter). He went through a long bout of chemotherapy in 2001 and is thankfully now in remission. He wanted us to know that whenever we want to give up, feel too tired or sore and think we can't do this anymore, to think about those (like him) that go through painful and exhausting rounds of chemotherapy. He said there is NO training for that. He said that none of the pain or exhaustion we'll endure during our training is close to the pain and exhaustion caused from fighting cancer and going through chemotherapy.

Fortunately, for Doug and his family, he's alive today to tell his story but not everyone is so lucky. He also wanted to thank each and every one of us for doing what we are doing - he said that it's participants from Team in Training (raising money for cancer research and patient services) that helped him battle his fight and stabilize into remission where he lives today. Hearing this was pretty powerful and makes me realize again 1) how truly blessed I am to have my good health 2) have the opportunity to run in a half marathon and raise money to find a cure and 3) that tomorrows are not promised to any of us - and we really should live each day as if it is our last...

Training Day 5

Today is a rest day - yay! I am sore from last night but not as sore as I thought I might be. It actually feels really good. So I am going to take it easy today, nourish my body with nutritious calories and lots of water, and enjoy the day with my baby girl (I don't work Fridays). Tomorrow is another coach-led day at the Stanford track. Stay tuned!

Training Day 4

Wow - last night was great. The Mid-Peninsula and North-Peninsula teams met at the Stanford track at 6:15pm. Fortunately, it wasn't raining (I forgot my rain jacket at home!). There were probably 60-70 people there. We started out by running a 3/4 mile warm-up - and that was just the warm-up - sheesh! After the warm-up, stretches were led by one of the team captains. After stretching, we ran 1 mile. I am proud to say that I was able to run (or jog) the entire mile. Everyone was super friendly, conversing throughout the run which was nice. I met a lot of great people (mainly other women). One woman in particular looked like she was probably in her 50's. She is considered an "honoree" which means she either has or has had cancer. This is her 6th season with Team in Training. I ran with her for a while - very nice lady.

It was also nice that the fitness levels ranged across the board. The coaches kept reiterating "This isn't a race or competition" and "Just take it slow these first two weeks". So that was helpful to hear. After the 1 mile run, we did some core strengthening exercises. Those were great and I can sure feel it today! Then we did a 1/2 mile cool-down jog. So all in all, I ran/jogged 2.25 miles last night. It felt SO good. It also felt so good to come home, take a nice hot shower, and hit the pillow. =)

Thanks to Adria and Clay for watching Amara last night so I could make the track meet. I really appreciate it!!

Training Day 3

Today was another cross training day. I woke up at 6am, got dressed, and headed to the gym. I rode the stationary bike for 25 mins and did the stairmaster for 10. I did some good stretches and felt so good! Tomorrow is the first track run at Stanford so I am looking forward to that (although it'll be in the rain). =)

Training Day 2

We actually didn't have a run yesterday (normally we would on Tuesdays) and instead attended a Shoe Clinic at Road Runner Sports in San Carlos. I learned so much! I had no idea there was so much to running really. I got professionally fitted for running shoes - they scanned my feet to determine what type of arch I have and also had me run on a treadmill with bare feet for 30 secs or so. My feet were being recorded on a video so they could determine how I landed, etc. They then showed the video to me in slow motion and pointed out how my heel landed, how my feet turned out a bit when my feet weren't on the ground, etc. It was pretty interesting. They then measured the width and length of both my feet and with all those things combined, were able to recommend a couple of shoe options. And wow - do they feel good!! I also learned a lot more than I ever thought possible about gear such as sports bras, body glide (to prevent chaffing), socks (cotton is rotton!), keeping my core warm and dry, and more. It was very educational - I feel like I learn more every day....

Training Day 1

Well, I have completed the first day of training! It was actually an easy day - I woke up at 6am and headed to the gym. It was dark and cold but I was determined to work out early because I knew I wouldn't want to work out after a long day in the office. Today was a cross training day (run days are Tues, Thurs, Sat) so I worked out on the elliptical machine for 30 minutes and stretched well. During my workout, I couldn't help but look forward to what is yet to come. Not only am I doing something great for ME =) but I am also doing this to help find a cure for cancer. It's such a great feeling. I can't imagine what it'll feel like once I cross that finish line! Thanks to all of you for your support - I couldn't do this without you!