To Streak Or Not To Streak?

I’m sure many of you have heard of the RunStreak that is being hosted by Runner’s World.

Basically, it’s a promise/challenge/opportunity to set a running streak, and run every day from Memorial Day until July 4th.  That’s 38 days of running.

Originally, I was like “Psssssh, RunStreak is not for me. No-way-Jose!”

And then I was like, “Hmmm, 38 days of running could be a fun challenge…”

And now I’m like, “Yes! RunStreak, I will!”

Except, there’s one problem.  The RunStreak started yesterday, on Memorial Day.  And I didn’t run.  So, now the questions is, how do I make up for it?  Run an extra day after the end of official RunStreak? Or run twice tomorrow?

I’ve never done this before, so I’m pretty excited/nervous to try it.  I think the most days I’ve run in a row is probably 6 or 7.  But the key is here that you only need to do a mile.  So even on rest/gym days, I can warm up on the treadmill, and then go about my workout as usual.

Are you doing the RW RunStreak?  What’s the longest running/workout streak you’ve held?  Think its a good idea or bad idea?

Fixed!

Remember when my watch died like forever ago.  And I was planning on fixing it/ earning myself a new one?  And I did? Well it was time to fix that.

Finally, I gathered the necessary materials and brought my Garmin FR60 back to life!

It was a pretty easy process.  But I will say, I took several laps around CVS to find that eye glasses repair kit.

But now we’re ready and back in action! Just in time for my attempt at running intervals tonight! Hopefully this will help me stay on track for my future runs and through MCM training.

(I’m still hoping to “earn” a newer, better watch, I’ll post soon about my upcoming race for that)

However, after running 2ish months without a watch, I kind of like the freedom and the back-to-the-basics feeling it gives me.  I think I will continue to do many runs without it, but still using it for intervals, tempo runs and long runs.

How often do you run with a watch?  Necessity or distraction?

Taking the plunge

Well almost.  It’s more like I’m getting my feet wet.  But still, it’s a step!

I joined a gym! (again – almost, I’m in the testing phase)

I’ve been thinking about this for a while, but with our office moving, I didn’t want to join the one in Dupont.  But then I found a Gold’s Gym in Rosslyn.  And, it’s like 3 blocks from my office!

My plan is to use it for lunch-time yoga/pilates classes, some strength training in the evenings, and the occasional spinning class.  I’ve been told I should try out body pump too, but it sounds a bit intimidating right now.

Are you a part of a gym?  What classes do you take?

Food Truck Love

When I found out my office was moving to Rosslyn, I complained. I complained a lot.  And then I realized food trucks go to Rosslyn too.  And suddenly the move to Rosslyn didn’t seem that bad did.

This week, I’ve had the chance to visit TWO food trucks, and I can honestly say I enjoyed them both!

On Tuesday, I checked out Something Stuffed.

I got the CTM Empanada.  It’s made with local, free-range chicken, flavored with Indian spices and a rich tomato cream sauce.

I gotta say, I was a huge fan of the crust.  Light and flaky, but didn’t feel toooo greasy.  It was delish!

I enjoyed 3 of those! I will def check out Something Stuffed when they come around toe Rosslyn again!

On Wednesday, I had the pleasure of visiting with Seoul Food.  My boss had tried it a few weeks ago, and just RAVED about their bibimbap. So naturally, I was itching to try it.

When we got to the truck, there were a number of options I was interested in trying, one of them being the kimchi quesadilla.  However, I decided on the chicken bibimbap with medium sauce.

It was DELICIOUS! As soon as I started eating, I couldn’t stop! Everything just tasted so good! The chicken was amazing, and the sauce was just right.  Not too spicy, but a little bit of a kick.  I will ABSOLUTELY be going back to visit Seoul Food! And what makes it all even better is that it was only $8.00!

I was hoping to check out another food truck today (what 3 in a week is too much?) but there weren’t any here. That’s okay though! Next week, the Po’boy truck will be on my radar!

So far, Rosslyn, you are treating me well…

How do you feel about food trucks? Any favorites?

Monday smiles

Today was sort of a slow, grey day.  The sun barely came out, it was raining on and off all day, and I felt tired and super frustrated with work (mostly bc I screwed up).  So, I’m going to take the time to focus on some things that are making me happy.

My latest race medal – I worked hard for this, and I’ll work even harder for the next one!

Yay for a half-marathon PR!

Candy dishes at work – especially ones that used to hold birthday flowers

It contains chocolate for my office mate too!

Tickets to the Newseum – as a thank you from our CFO for helping with the new office painting.  Anyone want to go?

I’m excited to go visit the Newseum!

Manicures – My mom, my sister and I all got manicures for Mother’s Day! (I forgot to get pictures of all of us)

Yep, those are jelly beans in the background. If you ask nicely, I’ll share.

What’s making you smile these days?

Race Recap: Frederick Half Marathon

So I should start by saying that while I did not reach my sub-2hr goal, I did get a PR in the half marathon distance.  And a PR is a PR, and I’m okay with it.

Yep, now I do!

Let’s start at the beginning…

Sunday morning, Kevin and I hopped in his car (at around 5am!) and headed up to Frederick, MD.  Although the race didn’t start until 7:00am, we were aiming to be there by 6:15, because parking traffic apparently gets really bad.  We made it there by 6:00am and hung out in his car for a little bit.  It was chillier than I expected (about 60-65 degrees) so I wanted to stay as warm as possible.  Yes, I’m basically cold-blooded and 65 can feel chilly to me.

Eventually we exited the car, and headed toward bag check.  For some reason I felt the need to check my bag even though I could have left it in Kevin’s car.  Bag check was quick and easy, and we quickly headed to the start line.  The race was relatively small (5,000 runners for the half) so everything was pretty easy to find.  Oh, I should also note that they did a GREAT job with port-o-potties and bathrooms at the start.  There were so many options, which made the start super relaxed!

I had been warned about how hilly the course was, so that was running through my mind.  I had looked at the course profile, and although there was nothing GIANT, there were definitely rolling hills. However, I tried to stay cool, telling myself that running up Capitol Hill had prepared me well.

Anyway, we continued to the start line.  There were no corrals, but there were pace signs and pace groups, so you could line up according to that.  I decided to jump in with the 2:00 hour group, determined to hang onto them.  After the National Anthem (which included the obligatory O! from Orioles fans), we were off! As usual, my plan was to start off conservatively, and then start to speed up after the 10 or 11 mile mark.

Miles 1-3

Hated it.  I felt like I was putting so much effort into every step.  I was so into my misery, that I didn’t really notice the scenery.  And sadly, this is typical for me.  I need to start planning my music so that I’m pumped up.

Miles 4-7

Started to settle into a groove.  I was enjoying the rolling hills, the cute neighborhoods, and the community that was out cheering us on.  It was super cute, and I was really enjoying the race.  Because it was so humid, I decided that I needed to stop at every water stop.  And also bc it was raining (sprinkling really) so I wasn’t sure what was sweat and what was rain.  I thought it would be better to be safe and hydrate.  Around mile 6, I realized I needed to make a pit stop at a port-o-potty.  Found one at mile 7 and made the stop as quick as I could.  Sadly I think it was still about 3 min.  Needless to say, I lost the 2:00 hour pace group.

Miles 8-10

I took my Gu, and spent probably a mile and half trying to find my pace and get into it.  Since I didn’t have my watch (rawr!) I was clueless as to how I was doing, my current pace, etc.  And let me tell you, it’s not a good feeling.  I seriously lost all hope during this point.  I got to the point where I told myself I didn’t care about a sub-2 race.  Eventually, I was able to push through it.  I may credit this song with saving me.

Miles 11-13.1

I was ready to go and feeling good.  I got to mile 12 and saw that I had about 8 minutes to make it under 2 hours.  Panic, excitement, nerves, relief all set in.  Yes, it was a whirlwind of emotions.  I was cruising along at a comfortably hard pace, and then I saw it.  The final hill.  The loooong endless final hill.  I’m pretty sure I audibly groaned.  Twice.  Regardless, I trudged up that hill as quick as I could, hoping that it would finish in a downhill right into the finish (this is one of those moments where I wished I had studied the course map/profile).  Welp, the finish was not there.  I had to go a little ways, around a turn, and then we entered the track, where we completed 3/4 of a lap.  It’s important to mention that the track was dirt and gravel (you can see it in the picture).  And very uneven.  I had to keep my eyes on the ground to make sure I didn’t roll my ankle.

I’m pretty sure I’m eyeing the clock

And then I saw it.  The stupid 2:01:xx. And I was angry. I was sad. I was disappointed. But I was still determined to finish strong.  And I did.  But I still wasn’t happy.

At the time, the only thing I could think of what that I missed.  How the bathroom break ruined my race.  And I was a huge brat about it.  Poor Kevin had to deal with me being a grump all day.  2:01:30.  Just not good enough.

Later, I found out that my official chip time was 2:00:48.  Which sounds better, no? Nope. It just made me feel worse. All I could feel was regret, and mass amounts of pity for myself. I had so many “if only’s” running through my head.

But now, I’ve accepted it.  Even more, I’m happy with it.  Sure, that 2:00:48 is 49 seconds short of my goal.  But it is still almost a 7 minute PR for me! And 49 seconds is way closer than 1:30! Also, 49 is going to be easy to knock off my next half-marathon, especially if I skip the port-o-potties!

Joey’s wearing my medal because it was apparently his turn!

I want to thank all of you for your positive comments! Yes, I am super close and I will certainly get it next time! I also had negative splits which is a great thing! And I even got some great tips on when best to look for port-o-potties (early in the race – I never even thought of that before).

Overall, it was a great race and I would certainly do it again next year.  It’s challenging because of the rolling hills, but not so much that its all you think about.  There’s so much community support all along the course.  While going through the neighborhoods, there were kids, teens and adults all handing out water, bananas, snacks and high-fives.  It was really great! And, it didn’t ever feel crowded too! And the best part? It’s half of the Maryland Double medal – now I just need to figure out if I’m going to do Baltimore in the fall!

So now, I have a new half-marathon PR of 2:00:48!  I’m excited now for my next race!

So close!

Yesterday, I ran the Frederick Half Marathon. It wasn’t my best race ever, but I ran as best I could.

Well, apparently that wasn’t enough.  Remember that sub-2 hour half marathon I’m chasing?

When I crossed the finish line, the clock time was 2:01:31, and that hurt.  But being a mere 49 seconds away from sub-2 hurts more.  I will be back.  Sub-2, you will be mine.

(actual race recap coming soon!)

From Dupont to VA

For the past week, much of my time has been consumed with our office move.  Moving from Dupont Circle (in DC) to Rosslyn, VA has taken a lot of work. There was packing, shredding (a lot of recycling!), coordinating, painting, moving, more painting, etc.  But, I think the new office space looks great and is totally worth it!

I’ve worked here for over 2 years , so I’ve had some time to acquire quite a bit.  Here’s a picture of my cubicle, as it was, and after everything was all packed up:

I know, there was a lot going on.  And you can’t really see it well, but I had a wall of international monies going too.  My cube was something of an international circus. (which made it so much sadder to see everything packed up)

When we visited the new office, the first thought was, “Wow, there are a lot of white walls.” Thus, my office mate and I decided to paint a bright accent wall in our office:

The (almost) final set-up of the office:

We’ll eventually get around to un-packing and actually putting things up on the wall.  But for time being, getting our desks set-up was a big step

And now, the view from our window:

You can sort of see the dome of the Jefferson Memorial in the back, if you squint…

Decision made

Well, a decision has been made.  A while ago (actually a reeeeeeeallly long time ago) I mentioned how I had a few races that I wanted to do, but wasn’t ready to commit.  The Harper’s Ferry Half Marathon was one that Sarah and I were debating, and I was also thinking about the Frederick Half Marathon.

Well, the decision has been made.  Harper’s Ferry, we’ll see ya next year.  Frederick, I’m cominggggg!

Next Sunday, I will be heading up to Frederick, MD to run 13.1 glorious miles and to hopefully do it in under 2 hours.  Well, assuming that they don’t sell out before I can buy a bib.  (Online registration is closed to I have to wait until next week to buy one in person).

I’m not gonna lie, I’m pretty excited about the race schwag.

So now, I turn from despair over my 10 miler performance, to excitement about doing a half-marathon! Haha! But for real, I’m excited! The last half I did (ING Miami Half Marathon) I was still struggling with ITBS.  So, I wasn’t able to run as well as I wanted to (I had to stop and stretch the IT Band like every 2 miles).  This is going to be my chance at redemption! Okay, maybe that’s too much pressure on one race, but I am really excited to see what I can do!

Do you have any upcoming races you’re excited for?

 

Race Recap: GW Parkway Classic

The day finally arrived.  Yesterday, I woke up to a drizzly DC morning to head to Alexandria, Virginia for the GW Parkway Classic 10 Miler.

The day before (Saturday) was a beautiful day, with rain starting in the early evening.  However, the rain slowly stopped, and my hopes for a dry race started to increase. I had known for days that it was supposed to rain on the morning of the race, but I still had to keep my fingers crossed for the better.

Kevin and I stopped at Vapiano’s to pick up some pre-race dinner.  So, in addition to no more rain, I had a yummy pasta dinner.  I was starting to feel excited for the race!

Pasta with spinach and tomato in a light basil-pesto cream sauce.

I stuffed my face while watching Happy Endings online.  I was full and happy, and ready for bed! Fingers (and toes) crossed for good weather!

I woke up bright and early, and immediately checked the weather.  I was super excited to see that it was only 20% chance of showers at the start! Yay! So I quickly got dressed and Kevin and I headed out.

Well, it had just started sprinkling when we walked out of my apt. But that’s okay, it wasn’t raining hard, and it was about 51 degrees, so it wasn’t terribly cold.

Kevin drove me to Alexandria, where I boarded the runner-bus to Mount Vernon.  For the entire bus ride, I just tried to stay relaxed, and excited for the race.  I had done it last year, so I more-or-less knew what to expect.  The problem was, I haven’t been able to accurately asses my fitness level as compared to last year.  But nonetheless, I was ready.  I hopped of the bus, visited the port-o-potties, checked my bag, and then hopped in the corrals.  Within 10 minutes, we were off!  I was ready to have a great race and make it to the finish line!

Miles 1-3

OMG it was so hard.  I felt like I was working so hard, but in reality, I think it was just me warming up.  I was literally waiting for each mile to pass.  I think these were also the hilliest miles, so that didn’t help.  Not having fun yet.  And it was still sprinkling.  Not too much rain, but enough to let you know that it was there.

Miles 4-6

Started falling into a rhythm and feeling good.  At this point, I thought to myself, “don’t get too comfy! This is a race!” Still sprinkling though.  Which, at this point, actually felt nice because I was starting to get warm.  I had a tank top on underneath my long sleeve, and I debated taking the tank top off.  Decided not to, because I thought it would be too much work.  Also, I didn’t want to have to fiddle with moving my bib.

Miles 7-9

The rain started to fall a little bit heavier, and the wind picked up at times, but it was okay because the course sort of flattened out a bit.  I decided to push the pace on these miles, because I figured, why not!  Plus, somehow, I convinced myself that I can run a challenging pace for 4 miles, no problem. Haha, riiiight.  To prevent myself from falling off, I latched on to a girl that I had seen around me a few times during the race.  It looked like she was picking up her pace a bit, so I thought it would be perfect.  And since I didn’t have a watch, it was super helpful to have something to keep me moving forward.  So a HUGE thank you to this fellow runner! I really would not have been able to finish as strong without it! (I was also strongly motivated by brunch!)

Mile 10

Last mile! I really upped the pace, and forced myself to keep it to the end.  We made the final turn, and I opened my stride because I thought we must be close.  I was wrong.  I def started on my last gear too early, and it hurt to keep it going.  But I did it and finished! So glad to cross the finish line!

rocking the new blue compression socks!

Finish time: 1:28:50.  Average pace of 8:53.  I’m okay with it, but certainly not happy.  For one, did not earn a new watch .  I needed to go under 1:27 to do that.  And second, for how I felt, I would have thought I was going faster.  There are a million excuses (weather, hills, illness, no watch, etc) I can make, but I think the only one that matters is that I didn’t train as hard as I could have and SHOULD have.  I really failed myself on that front, and hopefully I will be able to learn from it. I think I need to re-evaluate my training schedule and see what may not be working.

After I crossed the line, I grabbed some gatorade and high-tailed it to the bag check.  It was still rainy and 50 degrees out, so I knew that pretty soon I was going to get VERY cold.  I quickly found Kevin (thanks race photographer!) and also found Rachelle while waiting in line.  After I grabbed my stuff, we headed for cover so we could stretch it out, and quickly recap our races.

I promise one day I'll stop making these ridiculous faces

After a quick stretching session, we headed to meet some others for brunch.  Brunch is easily the best part of racing!

All in all, it was a good race.  It was well-organized, not over crowded and the scenery is really awesome.  I’m so glad I got out and ran.  It was a great experience, and it’s always nice to get out and race to see where your fitness really is.  Thanks to Pacers for putting on yet another great race! I’m sure I’ll be back next year (and much faster!)

How was your weekend?  Did you have good weather?  Or were you stuck with rain clouds like DC was?