My Name is Jess and...

...I'm a sugar addict.

By now, most of you who read my blog may already know this since I often chronicle for you my love of sweets. But as of late, it seems increasingly clear to me that I not only have a sweet tooth, but that, perhaps, all 29 (yes, I counted them -- does this seem like the right number of teeth? seems like a lot) teeth crave sugar.

See, for Valentine's Day, my husband bought me a box of Fun Dip -- partially because he knows I love sugar, and partially for sentinmental reasons: on one of our first dates he invited me over to his apartment to watch movies, and I brought along some Fun Dip (some people bring a bottle of wine, I bring refined sugar) and ended up spilling the colored sugar all over the place. Anyway, I didn't consume all the packets of Valentine's Fun Dip right away; instead, I've been spacing them out, but in general I have about one packet a night (okay, sometimes two). A packet is 50 calories of sugary goodness, which in a sense isn't that bad (but, it would mean running a half mile to burn off); however, an extra 50 to 100 calories a day of refined sugar can't be helping me to shed those extra pounds that -- I'm convinced -- keep me from being the speed machine I'm meant to be.

So, yesterday I tried to refrain from the sugar(I at first tried to trick myself by having a Diet Sprite, but my palate knew better: aspartame is no substitute for the 'cane), but as I sat watching TV last night, I could hear the Fun Dip calling to me from my closet (I put it in there so that it would be less tempting, but that ploy has failed to deliver results). I yielded and got a packet, and settled in front of the TV to enjoy my sugar. But then it happened: one wasn't enough. I needed more -- needed it, I tell you! I especially had to have another stick (for those unfamiliar with Fun Dip, or if you haven't had it since you were five, the "dip" is just flavored sugar, but you "dip" into the dip with a compressed sugar stick that is delicious) because the stick is my favorite. So, I broke into another pack, this time leaving the dip alone but going straight for the stick. Of course, consuming that didn't squelch the craving either, and I broke into another packet to get at the stick and leave the dip untouched. One packet and three sticks later, I was feeling a little sick to my stomach and also a little wired.

I'm thinking of throwing the Fun Dip out. I know it will just be replaced with other sweets: ice cream or mini cookies, but I have to start somewhere. That, or I'm gonna need to join SA (sugarholics anonymous); heck, maybe that would be helpful anyway. I could join the circle of others who can relate to my childhood habit of eating a handful of sugar cubes on the way to the bus stop; there has to be others out there, doesn't there?

Daylight Savings

Kinda sucks.

I don't like losing an hour.

New Tunes

I added some new songs to my MP3 for running: A little Fall Out Boy, a pinch of the Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, a dash of My Chemical Romance, and a sprinkle of The Arcade Fire. Combined with previously loaded songs and my reliable 3 mile route, it was the perfect recipe for a Saturday evening run.

Rest...Kinda

Today is a rest day from running, but I've been busy otherwise.

Even though I'm on break, I still have school work to catch up on: papers to read, classes to plan, etc, so I've been working on that stuff for the majority of the day -- one project that I thought would take about an hour ended up taking about 3 hours! Also, I'm trying to take care of some errands: grocery store, Target, Walgreens, etc, and those take time as well, so today doesn't feel all that restful. In fact, it's 5:15 pm right now, and this is the first moment where I've felt I could take a break from stuff, uff-da.

Thankfully, I still have two days left of my vacation before classes resume on Monday; I wish spring break was two weeks!

Jessica the Great

While I'm on break, I've been trying to sort through some pictures and organize some albums -- needless to say, I haven't really gotten very far; however, I was reminded of a token from my childhood that I thought you guys might appreciate: my biography. As written by Virginia Ammons when I was in first grade and she was in fifth.

See, for a couple of early elementary years, I lived with my grandparents on their farm in CO, and I attended a one-room schoolhouse; seriously. There were just two of us in the first grade: me and Lucas-Mucus (having to always partner up with that snotty -- literal boogers -- kid bugged me more than I can express; I hated having to stare at that slime-covered upper-lip of his); my mom credits my experience in that school with much of my later accelerated learning; Cherry Valley worked in a unique way since there were so few students (30 total: grades kindergarten through fifth), and essentially, students worked at different grade levels for different subjects, depending on individual skill (kinda like a Montessori). So, I was good at English and worked at the fifth grade level with them, but I sucked at math, so I worked with Lucas-Mucus on that.

So, as a fifth grade project, we wrote biographies of one another and Virginia had me: "Jessica the Great."
Here we are, partnered up, and I, of course, am the small, dark one. This photo was glued on the inside jacket of the spiral bound book that was all about me and my favorite things. Fav movie? "Journey of Natty Gann." Fav TV show? "Cosby Show." Etc. So, as you can see on page 19 below, my "favorite thing in life" was that I ran "fast."

Personally, I love the illustration -- it DOES demonstrate speed, doesn't it?

I think about this little book from time to time, and especially this page, and when I'm running, I try to picture my knees moving back and forth with the sort of speed illustrated by Virginia Ammons -- my pony tail flapping in the wake of my speed. I certainly no longer think of myself as fast, but 23 years after this book was bound together, running is still one of my favorite things in life.

Where Virginia chose the title from, I have no idea, but it has stuck over the years, and I have always thought of myself as "Jessica the Great" (running is partially what makes me "great," but the "greatness" is really a general attitude); I hope everyone else thinks of themselves in similiar terms: We all should be our first name + "the" + a chosen adjective of significance. What's yours?

Scooter's Smacky

My student, Chelsea, did make it into the final 9 for the next Pussycat Doll show (see previous post below) last night, and it was kinda a nail-biter since she was chosen last. But, now I'm gonna have to watch that stupid show every week to see how she does.

For those like BCG, who don't know who the Pussycat Dolls are, well, I suggest you turn on MTV or VH1 every once in awhile -- kidding:) They're a musical group and a Vegas show (I'm not sure if it's one in the same -- can anyone else shed better light on that?) and they sing the song "Dontcha Wish Your Girlfriend was Hot like Me."

But aside from former students who are now on reality shows, I just had to share these pics of Scooter snuggling his little yellow bear (yes, I'm very literal when naming my pet's pets).

If you read the comic strip "Get Fuzzy," it will totally remind you of Bucky Kat's stuffed bear "Smacky." If you don't read "Fuzzy," well, you're missing out on some laughs.

Totally Whack

So, I'm sitting here flipping through the channels, waiting for "Lost," which doesn't come on until 10, and I stopped for a bit on a new reality series on the "CW" called "The Next Pussycat Doll"; well, I think that's the name of it, anyway; they're auditioning for the next addition to the group. So, I notice that one of the girls looks familiar, and I'm intrigued: Is that one of my students?

I kept an eye out for her to re-appear, and upon further scrutiny, and the mention of her name, Chelsea, and her hometown, Cooper City, FL, I knew it WAS one of my students! Actually, she was in one of my classes last semester, and she withdrew from class about 6 weeks into the course (did she withdraw to film this show? I don't know!), but I remember her.

It's so weird! That girl who sat in the back row in the 12:30 class is now on my TV screen! I hope she makes it to the final 9, so I can see her go farther in the competition, but if she speaks and her grammar isn't correct -- well, like I said, she withdrew 6 weeks into the semester, so I can't take responsibility for that.

3 Miles and a Burrito

I ran 3 miles this evening, and they went well. There was a little knee discomfort at the half way point, but I ran through it, and it dissipated. Was able to run the entire way, so that felt good.

But the 300 calories, or so, I burned were immediately replaced by the 8 billion calorie burito I had for dinner from Chipolte (calorie estimation may be an exaggeration). But damn, those burritoes are delicious!

Yesterday's 3 Miler

was alright.

I couldn't tell if it was arduous because I hadn't run in 15 days, or because my knee was aching. In the end, the 3 were a combo of walking and running, and I didn't feel terrible about that, but also didn't feel splendiferous about it either. I guess that's how it is sometimes.

In other news, spring break is awesome. My husband took two days off work to chill with me, and we've seen two movies: "The Departed" was amazing! (although I do have some criticism) and we went to see "Zodiac" in the theater yesterday, and we also thought that was good (but VERY long -- I had to pee twice during the film). And today, we're headed to the beach! Yeah, spring break rocks!

Down, Dog

With the knee restricting my running the past few weeks, I've been doing a lot of walking, but I've also been trying to practice yoga on a more regular basis. But, it's hard with a little dog who thinks that every time I'm on the floor, I'm there to play with him.

Here I am Sunday morning, preparing for the wheel. It's not easy holding a pose while Scooter is licking my face, and while I am, thus, laughing. The benefit to doing yoga at a studio must be: the down dog, minus a dog.

But, speaking of the knee (kinda), RW had a brief segment on IT bands: an appropriate stretch and: a recommendation of fish oil daily (Omega-3 fatty acid), which, as you know, I have resumed taking (going on 6 days of consistent vitamin and fish oil intake). That article encouraged me in my fish oil endeavor (the blurb speaks of its anti-inflammatory properties) and I've decided to not let gagging keep me from taking the necessary nutrients. I just have to get used to it.

And because it has now offically been two full weeks of no running, I will test out the quality of my IT band's rest by trying a short run today (I'm thinking of something in the range of 2-3 miles). I'll let you know how it goes.

Dog Walk

This morning, I am not the exerciser in my family; instead, it's my husband. He and Scooter are partcipating in a "dog walk" here in downtown Ft Lauderdale to benefit the county human society. They are joining other friends with their dogs to walk and donate support (and dollars) to the shelter.

I wish I could walk with them, but I have class this morning (2 1/2 hours until my spring break officially commences!), so I can't go. I hope they have fun walking (I'm sure my husband's arm has already been stretched beyond its normal capacity -- Scooter will be so excited to see so many dogs, his friends included)!

Looking Forward to the Break

This week, and really the whole month of February, has been very busy: Classes have been full and every time I return a batch of essays, I'm getting a new batch; at home, we're in the middle of construction and we've had limited use of our kitchen for more than two weeks; in the back of my mind, I'm still stressed about that interview I had more than a week ago and which I haven't heard a peep on; and all other matters of work and home have made this week in particular a busy one.

Which is why I'm so glad that after tomorrow morning's class, I have the next 8 days off for spring break: woo-hoo! And I'm not planning anything!

Except for maybe a triumphant return to running (cross your fingers for the knee).

Gag!

Okay, here's a 'do pic:

This is the fixed version, but imagine those short layers remaining the same, but then add about five inches of hair off the back: That's what I got, and my friends, that was a mullet.

But aside from the hair...

So, the trouble with my knee has had me thinking about resuming my vitamin intake. I had been a religious vitamin ingester for years, but about six months ago, I stopped. I was sick of them, sick of swallowing that horse pill, but now I'm trying to take exemplary care of myself so that the IT band recovers easily and heartily -- I don't want to deal with injury again (and yes, I know that the IT band is not connected with my vitamin intake, but in my mind, the two are bonded together). Also, someone told me that fish oil pills help with joint lubrication (plus, they're supposed to cure all other kinds of ills; plus, my dog takes a fish oil pill every day -- pet-sized -- to help give him a healthy coat, so I figure a lovely side effect would be especially shiny hair for me).

The orthopedist said there's no hard medical data to support fish oil pill usage with joint recovery, but he said that it couldn't hurt. But, here's my problem: I hate those damn pills! They're so big and they always seem to get wedged part way down my throat and I gag just thinking about swallowing them.

However, this morning, I was dutifully taking the ibuprofren the doctor has instructed me to take, and I figured since I was already in the business of ingesting pills, I might as well take a multi-vitamin and a fish oil. Ack! They were terrible. Sure enough, that fish oil pill felt like it got lodged halfway down my throat, and I swear I could taste the fishiness, even though the bottle says the special coating won't allow that. After gagging my way through that one, I wasn't too excited to swallow the vitamin, but I choked it down as well (compared to the fish oil, it went down rather easily).

I don't know if I can resume this routine regularly -- they are just too icky! And I just don't understand why vitamins have to be so big, or why they can't at least be gel-coated.

Doctor

Earlier today, I posted a pic of my new 'do, but because my home computer decided to shit itself, that post was deleted. Argh.

But, beyond the hairdo (which was successfully fixed), and onto running stuff: I had my doctor appointment this morning for my knee, and the long and short of it? ITBS. So, the doctor said to take another week off running, take 2 ibuprofren 3 times a day (in order for it to act as an anti-inflammatory instead of just as a pain reliever), ice, and stretching. After the visit with the doc (where my x-rays revealed the bones and ligaments of a "teenager"! he called me a "young" 28, which seems repetitive -- isn't 28 already "young"?), I met with a physical therapist who showed me some stretches and massage techniques to loosen up the band and, hopefully, relieve and eliminate the pain there when I run.

So, all in all, it was a positive visit. If things don't improve, I'll re-visit in a month, but the doctor said there was no reason to believe this was a serious injury. Phew!

Haircut from Hell

Last night I decided to swing by the mall and get my hair trimmed. I am not one to shell out money for a pricey haricut, and especially for a trim, I figured I could stop into a MasterCuts and get the job done. Well...

This stylist was drunk. Either that, or crazy. I'm not sure which. Anyway, I should've bolted when I noted how she kinda stumbled around, and then when I went to sit in her chair, there was a bag of kettle korn, which she offered me. I declined. But I sat down where her snack had been.

I told her that I wanted to maintain the basic shape of my hairstyle, I just wanted it trimmed in order to freshen it up and eliminate the dry ends. She heartily agreed it could be done and set to work with her scissors. As she happily chopped away, she chatted -- and it was the chat of someone who was not in her right mind. At first, she asked if the mole above my lip was natural, I told her it was, and she said how lucky I was to have that (didn't feel so lucky when I was eight and kids teased me -- "is that a chocolate chip on your face?") because she had tattooed hers on! Looking at her reflection in the mirror, it suddenly became apparent that it was a tattoo! (I have nothing against tatts -- I have one myself -- but to tattoo what is essentially a skin abnormality onto your face?! WTF?)

Anyway, she babbled on about how everyone in S. FL is terrible and rude and how she hates everybody here, except for me because I was nice, and how much I was just gonna LOVE my hair because she was doing something really fantastic with it. And this is when I got scared. I just wanted a trim; I didn't want "something fantastic." In the meantime, she dropped her comb and had to lean on my left knee to bend over and pick it up! I was so baffled by her behavior that I was literally captively stunned. And, it's hard to tell exactly what a stylist is doing since she was yanking my head back and forth and hair often fell in my eyes, but it was revealed when she was finished that she'd essentially given me a mullet.

A mullet, people.

Lots of short layers on top, and then she'd left the back long! Eek gad! I guess $12.95 just doesn't buy you the quality you're used to these days.

Once I was home, explaining to my husband the haircut that a trained chimp could've given me (and which I 'd tipped her for as well -- my manners don't escape me even when I know that money probably went to an 8 ball in the back alley), he commented: "It doesn't look terrible, but if I were you, I'd get it fixed." Get it fixed! If my husband notices how bad it is, it must be bad!! So, I've got to find a place today to get this business taken care of, which means I'm going to end up with a style that is far shorter than a "trim," and I will probably end up paying twice as much as I set out to. But I guess every story has a lesson, and my lesson?

Avoid "Drunk Denise" at MasterCuts. I guess $12.95 is a fair price for that one.

My Students and Me

I'm feeling much better today -- so far, it's been the same 48 hour cycle that I went through 3 weeks ago -- the fever is gone, the running nose has stopped up, and now I'm just left feeling kinda clogged and a bit fuzzy in the head. Otherwise, I'm fine.

I think there are several factors that have contributed to the cycle of sickness, but I think chief among them is that I'm exposed to so many people on a daily basis: primarily students. And they are petri dishes of viral disease just as elementary students are (maybe worse, since college students don't take very good care of their health; half of them are strung out on caffeine, cigarettes, and stress, and none of those elements help contribute to healthy immune systems). And right now, everyone is complaining of being ill, faculty members included. In fact, the irony of the situation this week is that even though I've been sick, I've been teaching my own classes, as well as filling in for others while they're taking sick leave (hey, if I can trudge through it, it's just a little extra change in my pocket).

Anyway, spring break is the first week of March, so hopefully the week off will give us all some much needed rest. Until then, I'll just have to make sure those students aren't licking their papers before handing them in to me.

Side Effects

Could be the title of a book, eh?

Anyhoo, I'm pretty much in a drug-induced haze today (probably makes me a more interesting instructor). The cold got progressively snottier yesterday and by the time I got home from school at 6:30, my nose was rubbed raw and the boogers were sliding out on their own. Dissatisifed with the cold medicine I got before, I went to Target, and got some super strength Tylenol Cold -- Day and Night (if I was within driving distance of Canada, I would've made the trek for that Tylenol 3 with codeine -- I wanted the powerful stuff, but I guess this version made due). Last night I took the night stuff, and sure enough, I was immediately drowsy and went to bed at 9 (which, is probably good for me anyway, but I missed "Lost" -- so don't spoil it for me).

This morning, I awoke groggy and disoriented, but I pressed forth with the drugs and popped two of the "day" versions. As I swallowed, I read the side of the box, and the medication's side effects: nausea, vomitting, headache (!), excitability (my favorite), anxiety, and fatigue (I guess that comes after the "excitability"). I immediately wondered about the anxiety and excitability, especially since I was swallowing the pills with coffee -- and I have a tendancy to be a bit "excited" all the time. But it's the "headache" I find humorous since it's TYLENOL! Take it to cure a headache, but it may give you a headache!

Excitability or not, I'm trudging through my teaching schedule today like a good little soldier, but man, sometimes the medication makes you feel just as shitty as the illness itself.

Sick Again?!

Yep. I am.

I can't believe this. 3 times in 3 months! Usually, I think of myself as being very healthy, and I hardly ever fall ill. Yet, I keep contracting cold after after cold (and now with the knee, I feel like I'm falling apart).

What gives, immune system?

First impression of how the interview went?

I think it went well.

But did it go better for those other candidates? That's the main question, I think.

Dr. Appointment

I made an appointment with an orthopedic specialist today, and I go see him next Monday. Until then, no running, says the nurse/receptionist on the phone.

P.S. Tomorrow is my personal interview, and I'm pretty nervous. Got my outfit picked out though.

Craptastic

Well, I didn't finish.

In fact, I only made it 2 miles, and it was at that early point that I knew the pain in my right knee wasn't going to relent.

I felt good as I stood at the start line, and was excited for the race ahead of me, but a half mile into it, my knee began to ache and I had to stop and stretch. At mile 1, the ache had turned into a sharp, shooting pain and I had already stopped and stretched several times. I know there are people who are able to work through pain and see to getting the job done, and for a little bit, I thought I could be one of those people, but by mile 2, I had already stopped a handful of times, and the pain was not subsiding. I knew then I couldn't go the next 11 miles.

So, I turned around and walked back.

My knee dully ached as I walked back to the parking garage where my car was waiting for me, and after awhile even that subsided. I knew, however, that if I started jogging again that the pain would resume. It was over for the day, and for the race.

I am deeply disappointed that I didn't finish; I didn't even get past mile 2. And, I guess this means I need to see a doctor, because ignoring this problem has not been enough to make it go away.

Beach Front Avenue!

Tomorrow is the A1A (the road made popular through Vanilla Ice) half marathon, and it looks like it will be a chilly early morning run. Temps dropped here in South Florida, and tomorrow morning at 6 am (start time) it will probably hover between the high 30's and low 40's: that's brrrr! I think I may have to bring toss-away clothes: I don't know, it totally changes my outfit plan (which, I already affixed my bib # -- 6081 -- to my designated shirt, and I may have to change that now; I may go with a long sleeved shirt, but I'm not sure).

Well, those are issues to hammer out today. That, and settling on the tune sequence (v. important matter). Then, tomorrow, I rise at 3:30 am and get ready for 13.1 miles!

Countdown

Today, I'm going to the A1A expo to pick up my packet info for Sunday's race. And I'm hoping that being at the expo and getting my race info will pump me up for this event; because right now, I gotta be honest and let you know that I am not feeling in to it.

There's the doubt that I won't do well, the fear that my knee will fail me, and the general race apprehension that always makes me want to just stay in bed race day morning; however, there's also several other things weighing on me and the race feels like the least of my priorities.

I have that personal interview on Tuesday at 8 am, and that will be not just an interview, but an interview plus teaching demonstration plus grading discussion (so, they'll interview me -- standard style -- then I'll give a 20 minute presentation to showcase my skills, and then they'll give me some sample student work that I have to assess and explain why I would assess it in such a manner; that last one I'm not too concerned about b/c I'm pretty sure you could grade an essay any way you want, but it's the explanation that counts), so that has me a bit stressed and I've been thinking of it all week (most stressful aspect? what to wear!). Also, our kitchen is officially a pile of rubble and the house is in ruins right now.

I've really been a slacker in helping my husband lately and I guess I've been grumpy about the demolition disrupting my life (even though I know that when it's done -- someday -- that our condo will be lovely), so I don't think he's been too pleased with me this week either.

So, as I said, the race is not forefront on my mind, but I'm hoping that it actually serves as a distraction from these other worries and anxieties. And once I'm at the expo and I get my race stuff, it will feel more real -- I'll still have the concerns about my ability to do the race and to do it well, but come Sunday morning, I know I'll just get out there and do it -- same with that interview and same with the house (maybe).

Post Valentine's Day

Last night on my way home, I saw a car with this license plate: LUV HRTS. Ha! How appropriate for Valentine's Day! It was the first time I actually wished my cell had a camera on it.

My husband and I ended up at Ruby Tuesday last night for some delicious mini burgers and beer, so it was actually a very nice holiday. Afterwards, we went to Target and got chocolate ice cream and then went home to watch "Lost." Yep, pretty romantic.

Happy V-Day!

Happy Valentine's Day to everyone! What are your plans?

My husband and I are still up in the air about what we're doing. Originally, we'd planned to make a nice dinner at home, but because we are currently remodeling our kitchen, and it's a disaster, we might choose to go out. Of course, last minute dinner-out plans on V-Day pretty much guarantees that we'll be expressing our love over burgers at McDonald's -- but what do I care? If I don't have cook, I'm pleased.

P.S. 4 days until the half marathon that I feel totally under-prepared for.

No Oomf

Just kidding on that long run yesterday: ended up doing just 3 miles. Wasn't necessarily the knee -- I just had no "oomf" in me. What can I say? Some days have "oomf" and some don't.

Weekend Round-Up

Well, I must've done better on the phone interview than I thought because I got a call yesterday morning inviting me back for a personal interview a week from tomorrow! Woo-hoo! I'm pumped to be moving forward but also nervous because I know there's competition -- I'll just have to bring my "A" game to that interview.

But aside from stressing over that, and then enjoying the relief of the call yesterday, I was mostly bed-ridden yesterday. You see, I went to a friend's wine party Friday night and had FAR too much wine and stayed up WAY too late. Needless to say, I spent most of the day yesterday moaning and groaning and it was a wasted day. Sometimes I wonder when I'm gonna grow up and learn when to control myself, ugh.

Anyway, it was good that yesterday was a day of rest, because rest is all I did. Friday I ran a quick 2 miles with Scooter, and this evening I plan to do a long run -- I'm thinking of something in the range of 10 miles if all goes well with the knee. The half marathon is a week from today!

The Post-Interview Post

The best way to describe my interview this morning (see previous post below) is: Meh.

The phone format is certainly not my forte. For one thing, the committee was obviously calling from a conference room with a conference phone, and I found it a little difficult to hear some questions, and had to ask twice to repeat something -- which made me feel like a doofus. Secondly, on the phone, it's hard to read those I was speaking to since I couldn't see them. So, it was difficult to gauge their responses to how I answered the questions. And I had a few moments in which I felt like I was just babbling on to myself.

And while I feel like I fielded questions well (okay, maybe I should say I fielded them "adequately"), when I think back on them, I keep thinking about how I could have answered so much better. Suffice it to say, I feel very doubtful of my chances of moving on to the "in person" interview, but I should know one way or another by Monday (it's gonna be a looooong weekend -- I'll have to distract myself with some Bud Light). *Sigh*

In T-Minus 23 Minutes,

I have an important interview.

I'm interviewing for a full-time permanent faculty position at the community college where I teach, and the interview represents a milestone for me. See, for the past 3 years, I've been teaching as an adjunct professor, which basically means that even though I carry a full load of classes, I don't get paid very well, I have to share an office, and I don't receive benefits. It kinda sucks.

But things have been looking up for my career in the last year: Last spring I won an important teaching award (Adjunct Professor of the Year) and last fall, I was granted a full-time "temporary" position within the department, and this is the first year I've applied for a full-time permanent position and have actually received an invitation to an interview -- so I am making progress, albeit slow progress (however, academia is a slow moving world and I'm very young for my profession).

So, the interview is by phone (which kinda blows b/c I think I'm better in person, but hey, I can still be charming by phone) and I'm expecting the call in less than half an hour. Perviously, I wasn't a bit nervous -- true, the interview has been on my mind this week, but I've been very confident thinking about it. Now, though I am starting to feel the anxiety (could also be the 3 cups of coffee I've had). So, my heart is yammering and I have already double checked the phone twice to make sure it works (not that it's ever NOT worked before, but you know). I've also got Scooter out on the back porch so that he is -- hopefully -- distracted by looking at the ducks and doesn't decide to play with a squeeker toy while I'm on the phone. I don't think I can be more prepared.

Cross your fingers for me and wish me the best of luck!

7 on the 7th

I ran 7 miles this evening with minimal knee issues* and it felt pretty darn good. Of course, it sucked when I got home and realized I had locked myself out.

My husband had gone to run some errands, and I'd locked the door on my way out -- confident that he would return before me -- but I should've known better. After trying both the front door and back door, I resigned myself to wait for my husband to return home (I only briefly considered scaling the bushes and attempting a hijacking through the kitchen window). Meanwhile, knowing that I was just outside the door, Scooter started whining and crying (the Beagle howl was so lonely and sad), so I ended up standing by the guest bedroom window so that Scooter could see me and so he would shush. Of course, people had to wonder what the nutty lady was doing standing outside her condo in just shorts and a sports bra -- I felt a little naked in the moonlight. Just when I was about to knock on a neighbor's door and ask to borrow a phone, my husband arrived.

This is the 3rd time I've been locked out of the house (4, if you count the time I thought I was locked out, but then found my key in my shorts), and it had me seriously considering one of those key-hiders for either under my car or for some location on the exterior of the building. Hmmm...I'll have to think more on that later: "Lost" is on in 25 minutes and I need to save up my mental juice for that.

*Knee ached some off and on, and I had to stop and stretch at mile 5, but on the whole, it felt better.

"National" Ab Month

I read Runner26's post on Monday about "National" Ab Month and decided to take up the challenge: Some ab work every day for the month of February. Now, I am entering the month's ab work a little late (started on the 6th of the month), but I figure it can still be a challenge (it's still 22 days worth of abs, abs, abs). So, yesterday was the first day of ab work in about...oh...maybe five months. Yeah. I don't really have abs, I just have a middle section where cake goes.

I figure the focus on abs will be a good way to find my way back into some other strength training exercises and stretching. Before I know it, I'll have more than a middle section: I'll have abs! Where the cake goes.

Running, Knees, Gym

It's been cool and rainy here the past few days (as was observed during the Super Bowl -- it was not sun-shiny), which is nice because it allows me to run at times of the day when it's normally too warm. So yesterday I was able to fit my 3 miles in the mid-morning instead of waiting until after work in the evening. The weather was nice and cool, perfect for a run, but again my right knee bothered me.

At this point, I'm getting a little nervous about the half coming up in two weeks: I haven't run any true long runs in preparation and my knee is concerning me. Ack.

In other news, I officially quit the gym. I haven't used it since posting about my dilemma over whether or not to keep my membership, so I decided to cancel my membership and keep my $35 a month all to myself. So, it's official; I am now "sans gym."

Did anyone have a favorite Super Bowl Ad?

Because I didn't think any of them were that great.

No 5K

I didn't race today.

Initially, I planned to and set out my stuff last night, but this morning, while I was feeling much improved, I asked myself: Why push it for a 5K? Especially when I have a half marathon in a few weeks and that's what I want to be in top notch health for. So while this 5K is meaningful, I will be there for it next year.

Today I will rest from running and tomorrow I will get back to my regularly scheduled runs. It feels like a very rational decision. But then, why do I feel guilty for missing the race?

To 5K or Not to 5K

After the best night of sleep I've had all week, I am feeling much better today. The fever, achiness, tiredness is gone and while I'm still congested, I am feeling well enough to teach my class this afternoon. But I am now faced with an interesting conundrum:

Do I run my planned 5K on Saturday?

I do want to run this race because it would be my 3rd year in a row running it, and it has special meaning: It was my first 5k in FL and I'd like to run it each year. But after being sick all week, I'm not sure if it's a good idea. Plus, it's before my Saturday class, so I'd have to run the race and then go to class all sweaty. I'd be disappointed to miss it though.

I need a Magic 8 Ball to help me out!

Marinating in Mucus

The virus that I mistakenly dubbed an "incidental bug" has taken offense to such a title and has retaliated by turning into a full-blown-booger-disaster.

After a pretty much sleepless night, I got up this morning and whined that I didn't want to go to work, yet what did I do? I showered and got ready for work. On my way in to class, I was thinking how ridiculous this was: Snot kept creeping out my nose, I was hacking away, my eyes were itching and watery, I felt achy and tired all over, and yet I was on my way into work. I can trace such ridiculousness back to childhood when my mom felt that the only reasons to stay home from school were bleeding and barfing; if you weren't doing one of either, you were going to school. Thus, I grew into an adult who believed the same thing, and I have trudged to work and school through all kinds of sickness, reluctant to throw in the hat and stay at home.

So, I got to school ready to slog through a miserable day, but then as I stood at the copier making copies of some work to do in class, I thought : "Jess, this is silly; go home." So, I met with my first class, collected their papers and sent them on their way (they were all to happy to do so), and then I cancelled the day's remaining classes. I packed up my stuff and headed home. On the way, I stopped off at Walgreens and picked up some cold medicine (first, I stared at the dizzying array of medicinal choices -- did I want something non-drowsy or something to induce sleep? I didn't want either: the non-drowsy stuff had caffeine in it, and I'm not at home for the day so I can lay in bed with my heart racing; and the sleep inducing stuff has a narcotic in it, and I didn't come home for the day in order to slip into a drug-induced coma. In the end, I chose a generic cold medicine that just promised to reduce my fever and decongest me), and now that I'm drugged up and in my favorite sweat pants and t-shirt, I am ready for the healing to begin.

I am not bleeding and I am not barfing, but I am sick, and I deserve to be at home in order to get better.

So, my first order of business is to get into bed with my book, let the cold medicine work its magic, and maybe drift off to sleep for awhile. Perhaps, a fairy godmother (or my kind husband who may read this post shortly) will bring me some Diet Sprite later today -- I think that will cure me.

This Week Sucks

I feel like crap: I haven't slept well the past two nights and tonight I can't seem to sleep at all. I'm not getting anything done -- except for watching a lot of TV -- I'm addicted to Bravo, and last night I watched the "Real Housewives of OC" and felt thoroughly frustrated with the stupid rich people (I had a whole tirade here, but really, it was completely out of context and I blame my anger on my fever), yet I kept on watching, and tonight I watched the finale of "Top Chef" which was alright and then I got suckered into staying on the channel for "Top Design" which I thought lacked all the great ingredients that make Project Runway and Top Chef so awesome, yet I'm sure I'll continue to tune in from week to week.

But aside from channel surfing, I have mostly wallowed in self-pity and boogers (literally, I had a moment when I bent over to pick something up off the floor and snot just slid out of my nose -- totally gross). If I don't get to bed and get some sleep soon, I don't know if I'll be going in to class tomorrow (which, technically, is TODAY).

I'm Sick

On Monday I was feeling run down and achy all over, but as I described, I didn't sleep well Monday night. Yesterday, I too felt icky: tired, achy, and, in general, apathetic. Well, today I think I can confirm why I've been feeling this way: I have a cold.

My nose is runny, I have a cough, and I feel icky in a general way. Clearly, this is just an incidental bug -- nothing like the virus I caught over Christmas -- and it's not enough that I can truly justify staying home, yet it's enough to annoy me and cause discomfort.

It sucks to feel sick, but it does make me feel better that the reason I've had the "blah" feeling the last few days is a real reason. Now, I just need it to pass along on its merry way.

Blah, blah, blah

Last night I ran a quick 3 miles, and my knee felt fine. But for some reason, I feel out of it this week. Both yesterday and today I have felt tired and worn out, yet I didn't sleep well last night even though I was exhausted.

Maybe it's because it's a nondescript Tuesday at the end of January, maybe it's the change in weather, I don't know, but I'll tell you what I wish I were doing today: Curling up in bed at home.

A 1 Pound Bag of Smarties?

Gone.

Self Diagnosis

Most of your comments on yesterday's "knee" post re-confirm that which I read online, in my running books, and in back issues of RW: This is probably an IT band that has been strained. The pain is on the side of my knee, it immediately subsides when I stop running, it doesn't ache when not running, it's not inflamed, and it doesn't lock. Thus, the best remedies include all the things you readers noted I try: ice, aspirin, rest, and stretching.

I think I will do all of those things before consulting a doctor. Hopefully, with proper care, the knee strain will subside and I can continue running without any pain. For today: rest. And tomorrow, well, as my favorite heroine loved to say, "Tomorrow's another day."

I K(need) Some Rest

Today, it is sunny, but it remains cool with highs only reaching into the low 70s. I thought it would make for perfect running weather, so I set out mid-morning for a long run. However, I have to be honest: It was not a great run.

First of all, I'm behind on laundry, so I had to wear the running clothes that I least like, coupled with socks that are truly sub-par. It may sound stupid, but my running outfit really does set the mood, and when I'm in my favorite stuff, I feel like a million bucks, but when I'm in shorts that make me feel chubby and a top that feels too loose, I don't feel on top of my game.

So, part way into the run, the crappy right foot sock slips into my shoe and so my shoe kept rubbing the back of my ankle leaving the skin there raw. But this was truly secondary to the pain in my right knee. Ever since the marathon, my right knee has ached when I run -- but only when I run. There's no pain when I walk, there's no inflammation, and there's no problem bending or stretching it -- it just aches when I run lately. But today it was really hurting while I ran, so at mile 2, I turned around and headed for home, and I ended up walking the last mile to round out 4 total. Harrumph. I had hoped to go much farther.

The knee thing bugs me not because I'm in any excruiating pain, but I'm wondering if it's an irritation that just needs time, ice, stretching, and strength training, or is it something to consult a doctor over? Worrying over the matter as I walked the last mile didn't improve my mood.

Aside from the knee business, I under-estimated how warm I would get. It's cool today, yes, but 70 in the sun while running is still quite warm, and I could feel my little face turn the beet red it does when I'm straining under the warmth of the direct sun. Plus, I knew I should've put on sunblock or worn a hat -- so now there are a few more freckles that could very well one day be skin cancer.

So, I got home feeling hot, disappointed, achy, and possibly cancerous. And to top that off, I looked in the mirror and I seem to have a pimple on my neck! Ugh, tomorrow, I'm resting.

Rainy Day Run

This morning when I left for school, it was balmy and warm, but as the day progressed, it got cooler and cloudier. My students complained that it was COLD out! And they hunkered into their hoodies and jackets. Personally, as the day progressed, I was thinking, "Man, this is good running weather!"

So, this afternoon I laced up my shoes and headed out into the "brisk" 60 degree weather for a run. The cool, overcast afternoon was the perfect running temp, and even though I got drizzled on, it felt like a great run. All in all, I ran 5 miles -- the farthest since the marathon, so it was good to get out there today.

Maybe it remain cool for tomorrow's run as well.

It's Raining Smarties!

Last night, I had every intention of getting a run in, but after sitting in traffic for an hour and a half, I didn't much feel like stepping out into the pouring rain for a jog (some days, I completely understand road rage -- one of these days, I'm not going to shoot someone, but I will strangle them with my bare hands). Instead, I settled in for the evening in front the TV and scarfed down about ten rolls of Smarties (my husband saw them and bought a whole bag for me -- I curse and praise him for that purchase). I swear, those colorful little disks of sugar are like tablets of crack! I finally had to put the bag in a drawer.

Eh, some days just don't work out that well for a run.

In good news, I read an article this morning touting the "smart" effects of coffee: Apparently, caffeine is good for your brain, it makes you REAL smart. I can now add that to the long list of coffee's benefits that include: antioxidants, help with weight loss, help with digestion (makes you poo!), and wakes you the fuck up in the morning. Mmmmm, I L-O-V-E coffee.

Chicago, it is!

Chi-town here I come! Last night, my husband and I discussed the two proposed races and he told me simply: "I know that Chicago is the race you want to run, so you should do that." Cool. Case closed, and Chicago it is. Money-wise, we'll just have to include it as part of our vacation budget, so I think it is do-able! Are you guys already jumping out of your pants to meet me? You should be, I'm pretty awesome.

So, while Chicago is on my mind, I do have more pressing races to think about -- like that 1/2 in less than 4 weeks! I have been running regularly, but haven't been putting in any distance. Yesterday, though, I did double duty: ran 3 miles and then walked later in the evening (I'm not sure how far we walked b/c Erin and I first walked the dogs and then walked by ourselves since she felt as though she needed a better workout -- I'm a slow walker and she complained that I was walking at "mall" speed and we needed to pick up the pace -- so I guess we clocked about 3 miles total, 2 at "mall" pace and 1 at "long-legged-Erin" pace).

Therefore, my goal this week is to put in a distance run, nothing real far, but something in the range of 6-8 miles. I figure if I do that, a 10, and a 12 before the 1/2, I should be set to conquer that 1/2 -- but only Feb 18th will tell how that will turn out.

Chicago v. Marine Corps

The retelling of my dream led to more speculation about Chicago this fall, but I don't know if I'm doing Chicago this fall yet (although, I know I should make a decision soon before it fills); I certainly would like to, but right now I'm still on the fence between Chicago and Marine Corps, so maybe you guys should help me decide!

Argument for Chicago: I've never really been there before. I've driven through it (twice), but that doesn't count as actually "being" there (plus, driving through there wasa nightmare both times, and I'd like a better impression). So, it would be fun to not only run the marathon, but to also do the tourist stuff and see the city. And...There are at least 3 RBFers I know of who are running it and I would love the opportunity to meet you guys! And maybe if I sign up, a few more might join us and it could be an RBF mega-gathering!

Argument against Chicago: Mostly a money issue. Chicago means a plane ticket for myself and husband, plus a hotel, food, other expenses, and they add up. And while the cost is certainly manageable, right now, things feel tight in the Jess household, and so I'm being miserly with my money.

Argument for Marine Corps: My dad lives in DC, so it's a good opportunity to visit him, and I can stay for free in his apartment, which is right by Woodley Park and across the street from a Metro station, so costs in general would be much cheaper. Plus, I do love DC and the marathon would be fun -- lots of good things to see.

Argument against Marine Corps: I go to DC often. I spent every summer there while I was growing up and return to visit my dad about once a year, so I don't feel like I'm seeing or going anywhere new. And, my dad might come and visit me here this spring, so I wouldn't miss out on a visit with him.

Otherwise, both races are at the same time of year -- plenty of time to train, and they're both approximately the same size, and are both on my list of marathons to run (and I would, perhaps, get around to running both in time -- but the decision is for THIS year). So, give me your input: Which should I run for the fall of '07?

Running Dream

Last night, I had an odd running/marathon dream. I dreamt that I was running the Chicago marathon, except I was only running the half (which, I don't think Chicago offers a half alongside its full, but dreams are not a place for logic). Anyway, I got there with some other RBFers and we are running very late, so we throw our stuff onto this patch of grass and head for the start. I get to the start, but somehow don't realize that I'm still wearing flip-flops instead of running shoes.

Instead of running back to my abandoned stuff in the grass, I decide to just go ahead and run in my flip-flops (heck, it's "only" 13 miles, right?), but about a mile into the run, the flip-flops are clearly not working out, so I stop at a shoe store -- it just happens to be along the route and it's open. I stop and try on some shoes and decide on a pair, but then have no money to pay for them since my stuff is all back on that random piece of grass. So, get this: I decide to run BACK to the patch of grass to get my money and then back to the store to buy the new running shoes!

I can't recall much else about the dream, but it felt hectic and stressful -- not to mention, completely irrational (if I were to run back for the money, why wouldn't I have just run back for my shoes?). I don't know what prompted the dream, but I also don't know why I was dreaming about serial killers and vampires last week, but I can say that if I do run Chicago, I will be extra careful to remember to put my running shoes on!

2 Miles with Scooter

Saturday was a busy day for me, as I described, I taught in the morning, and then met some friends for lunch and our "free" facial (one friend had dropped her business card and won a free facial for herself and friends, so she invited me along), but the true nature of the facial was to try and get us to buy the products. I just enjoyed the facial, and especially the 10 minute neck, shoulders, and back massage (although, once again the massage therapist said I have unbelievable knots and need regular massages), and I didn't purchase anything.

So, I didn't get home until supper time, but I wanted to get SOME running in before dinner, so I pulled on my running clothes and was about to head out the door when my husband suggested I take Scooter with me. I reluctantly agreed, since running with Scooter can be such a pain, but I leashed him up and we were off!

With Scooter, there's only one speed: full speed ahead. The first tenth of a mile is pure chaos as he jumps and runs in circles and grabs his leash (he gets all tangled up and we have to stop and unwrap the leash from around his body), but then he settles into a beeline down the sidewalk dragging me behind. In the middle, he often slows down to an easy trot and that's when I can run at my own pace, but once we turn around and he knows he's headed for home, it's a sprint to the finish. So, even though we only ran 2 miles, it was a FAST 2 miles. With Scooter, I get my speedwork done!

Saturday

Air conditioner was easily fixed, and it wasn't too costly -- we are now enjoying the comfort of cool, air conditioned air again.

Otherwise, there's not much to report. I am already deviating from my half-marathon running schedule, and instead of running last night, I battled my husband in a 4 hour Risk showdown (I conquered, for the first time ever -- usually my armies fold early in the game and I often times lose in an embarassing manner). And today, I hope to get that run in that I missed yesterday, but I can't guarantee that I will: I have a class to teach until noon and this afternoon, I get to meet some friends for lunch and then trot off for a free facial! After all that, who knows if I'll be up for a run.

Hope everyone else is being a better runner than I!

"I want to quit the gym!"

Whenever I think of canceling my gym membership, I think of that episode of "Friends" where Chandler wants "to quit the gym." But he lacks the gumption to do it, so Ross goes with him, and ends up getting a membership as well. It's just hilarious. Anyway, I figure I'll think on it until the end of the month (and maybe re-watch that episode on DVD for research purposes) -- I've already paid from the 9th of Jan through the 9th of Feb, so why not see how much I use it in the next few weeks? If I'm still not attending, I'll cancel before the next month is automatically withdrawn from my checking account (if you've seen the "Friends" episode, you'll remember that Ross and Chandler decide to cut the gym off "at the source" -- the bank, but they wind up with a joint checking account instead -- really, the antics are priceless on that show).

In other news, our air conditioner went kaput, so that meant it was hot in our condo last night. Thankfully, it rained yesterday, so the air outside was nice and cool when I went for my evening run -- just a short 2 miles. In many places this time of year, it's best to have your house warmer than the outdoors, but it FL, it is almost never desirable. The air people come this afternoon: Cross your fingers that it is the fast, cheap kind of fix and not the expensive, lengthy kind.

Gym Dilemma

So, I can't quite decide if I should keep my gym membership or not, so I thought I'd bring the question to the trusted blogosphere and see what the general consensus is.

I haven't been to the gym in at least four months, maybe five. I hate doing my running on the treadmill -- really, truly, just don't like it -- so I always run outdoors; however, I used to use the gym primarily for classes like spinning and yoga. And while I'd like to return to doing some of that exercise, I don't know if it's worth it to pay a membership and go to a class once a week, or, in my case, once every few months.

And really, yoga can be done at home with DVDs and I have weights at home too -- I do not, however, have a spinning studio (but, I have friends who have a bike in their garage).

Should I keep paying the gym membership? ($34.98 a month) Or, do I cancel it and keep the money all to myself? Help me decide!

Gravity Gets Me Again

Last night, I bypassed a short run in order to go for a walk with my husband and dog (my husband hardly ever wants to go for a walk, so I have to take advantage when I can). We were walking along, having a perfectly nice debate about what color to paint the kitchen, when BAM! I was on the ground.

I slid in some clay-like mud and my feet went out from under me and I was on my butt in the grass (Scooter hovered above me to see if I was alright -- he also took advantage of me at that level to lick me on the mouth). My husband just stood there looking at me with an expression that was both surprised and not-surprised rolled into one.

What can I say? I guess I don't have to be running to fall victim to gravity.

MLK Day

I have the day off today -- thank you Baby Jesus -- and my plan is to celebrate Dr. King by doing nothing all day long because that's my dream.

Yesterday's bowling was loads of fun, but I sucked it up out there on the lanes. And between the beer and the awesome burgers afterward, I was very sleepy by the time we got home: I read for a bit and was asleep by, I swear to you, 8:30 pm! And I didn't get up this morning until 9 am!! I must've been very tired.

Today, like I mentioned, is going to be easy going. I have a 3 mile run scheduled and I'll get to it -- later. For now, I'm gonna chill on the back porch with a delicious cup of coffee and finish reading my book. I love holidays!

Back to a Schedule

Today was my first run since the marathon a week ago. According to Hal Higdon, you can begin running again after a marathon three days after the race, but I wasn't that ambitious. I decided to take a full week off because, well, because I wanted to. I haven't had a full week off of running in a long time, and it was relaxing and rejuvenating to take some time away from near daily running.

I went 3 miles today, nice and slow, and despite the fact that I got rained on a little, it was a good run.

I also planned out a schedule for myself for the next 7 weeks in order to prepare for the next three races I have on my list: the primary race being the half marathon on February 18th. It was nice to enjoy a little time off after the marathon, but it's even nicer being a girl with a plan.

Alrighty, I'm off to a birthday bowling extravaganza this afternoon -- cross your fingers for my game, I haven't played since league ended last August!

You Have to be a Bit C-R-A-Z-Y

...to come off a marathon that you thought would kill you and then turn around and sign up for a half, but that is exactly what I have just done!

I am going to run the A1A half marathon on February 18th here in Ft. Lauderdale, and that means I have 37 days to train for it.

I figure that it's probably easier to come out of the marathon and turn around and train for a half rather than waiting and letting myself return to pre-marathon conditioning before building back up (I'm strong right now! I mean, look at that picture! Have you seen muscles like that before?), but it does feel a little reckless -- and exciting!

As I said in my marathon post, I felt really good at the half point, and I think the half is a great distance, so I want to test it out; plus, it's hard to pass up an opportunity that is literally in your backyard (I think next year, I'd like to run the A1A full marathon, so this also gives me a way of seeing what the event is like -- if I like it, I'll return next year for the full, if I hate it, I won't do it next year).

Right now, it feels really good to have that goal in front of me again!

Does anyone know?

Why, when I click on Running Rabbit's link on my blog, I get redirected to some "knee exercises" page? And the url will start correctly with her address, but then I get sidelined to a place I don't want to be. My link has always functioned properly before, what has happened? Has anyone else tried accessing her page?

RR, are you out there?

*Edit: Read MN Firefly's blog to find RR. That's how I found her.*

*Edit, Edit: I changed my link on the sidebar to reflect RR's new address, so now we can all find her.*

A Fly on the Run

So, I'm always a little paranoid that one day I'm gonna walk into class with my pants unzipped, so I am somewhat obsessive about double checking it, and today my paranoia was not unfounded. I emerged from the bathroom -- not the stall, the bathroom -- did a quick zipper check, and, oops, it was down!

Quickly, I re-zipped and got on my way, but now I am super freaked that I'm gonna walk into a class with my fly down. That would be worse than the time I tripped and fell down in front of a class.

Official Race Results

5 mile: 55:41

10 Mile: 1:54:55

Half: 2:35:40

20 Mile: 4:28:32

Finish: 6:26:14

So, as you can see, I was on track at first -- averaging 11 minute miles, which was about what I was hoping for -- but then, things started to deteriorate. The second half of the marathon took one and a half times longer than the first half, and it's quite clear from the time that what I described at mile 20 was pretty much a break down of all aspects.

Eh, I still finished.

However, this is precisely why I want to do another one sometime later in the year (by then, hopefully, the soreness will have dissipated). I want to do it better.

Resolutions

Now that the Disney Marathon is behind me, it's time to look forward to the year ahead of me in 2007 and decide on some running resolutions. I have lots on my mind for what I'd like to accomplish, but I decided to narrow my goals down to the follow for 2007:

1. Run another marathon. Either one of the following: Chicago, Marine Corps, or Twin Cities. They are all in October, so I can only choose one. I guess I'll just need to look carefully at each and determine which is the best choice for me this year.

2. Run a half marathon. After this marathon, I can see how the half is such an appealing distance. I was feeling great at 13.1 miles: It's a challenging distance, yet not as exhausting as the full marathon, and I think it would be fun to run one. I would like to search for one that takes place in either April or May, so I'll have to look carefully.

3. Improve on my 5K time. The 5K is my most practiced race, and I do enjoy the short distance, but I'd like to better my time. Currently, my PR is 28:28, and even if I shave off 30 seconds, I'd be pleased.

4. Branch out and try some new races. I tend to stick with the same races and distances, but I'd like to try some new distances and locations. Some distances that I'm looking at: 10K, 4 miler, 10 miler, and 5 miler. Dates and locations to be determined.

Lastly, a non-running goal: Return to some other forms of exercise. I love running, I do, but that's all I've been doing for the past 18 weeks. I'd like to return to some spinning classes, some yoga, and weights. Strangely enough, those activities might turn me into a better runner!

I did it!

That's right, my friends, I finished! I was a little slower than I wanted -- finished in 6:30 -- but I finished and that's all I care about!

So, for the report:

Race day started this morning at 2:30 am when I got up and prepared to get ready to be at the start at the assigned 4 am -- it was damn early, but I actually beat my alarm out of bed because I was ready to go. At 6 am, we were all lined up in the appropriate places, the anthem was preformed, and then there were fireworks, and we were off! That first mile was awesome: The adrenline had me fired up and the crowd was wild with excitement. We started near Epcot, so our first miles were through Epcot and it was so cool because it was still dark, but everything was lit up and it was so much fun.

At mile 8, we entered the Magic Kingdom, and I have to say, hands down, that was my favorite part. There wasn't anything that compared to running down "Main Street USA" and through Sleeping Beauty's castle, and the crowd there was amazing. By mile 12, we were headed out of the Magic Kingdom and I was feeling really good, but at about mile 15, I started to wear out, and at 16, I felt exhausted. It was a long road into Animal Kingdom, and it was just past there, at mile 20, when I just wanted to fall into the grass alongside the road and die. Seriously, I know that 20 feels like I'm almost there and I should've been excited, but I had to face the fact that I really wanted to be done, so much so that I really wanted to just quit and have them cart me to the end.

At mile 21, I cried a little bit in pain, frustration, and fear.

My legs hurt so bad that I had to stop and stretch every half a mile; my feet ached, my guts were churning, I was unbelievably hot, and I just felt wiped out:physically, but also mentally and emotionally. Needless to say, the last 10K was mostly a walk effort (and I'm a slow walker). Once we entered MGM, I knew I had it in me to finish, but I was in a lot of pain as we passed through MGM and re-entered Epcot. By that time, I didn't even care about passing through Epcot; I just wanted to cross the finish line and collapse into my husband.

I crossed the finish, and immediately burst into (stiffled) sobs of relief and pride -- I actually did it, I could hardly believe it was true; it was one of the best feelings of my life, and I guess all the pain was made worthwhile by that moment.

I'm home now -- we drove back this afternoon -- and I am incredibly sore: My feet hurt, one toe nail is definitely going to fall off, I have a blister, my knees hurt to bend, and I'm hobbling around like I'm 80. But I did it, I really did do it -- it doesn't quite feel real yet.

Off to See Mickey!

"My bags are packed, I'm ready to go": Did my last run yesterday afternoon, packed my weekend bag, dropped the dog off with some friends, and now we're ready to head to Orlando, but before I go, I want to share some "thanks" for those who helped me get to this point (careful, this is gonna be like an Oscar acceptance speech: sappy and lengthy!). A runner certainly runs alone in many ways, but even someone training alone, like myself, doesn't do this kind of training by herself -- she needs a team of supporters cheering her on. Without mine, I wouldn't be getting ready for such a feat on Sunday.


First off, I'd like to thank my husband -- the unsung hero of my training. The training has taken me away from him physically, mentally, and emotionally: I'm sure he would have preferred that at the end of a work day I would have stayed home with him instead of running out the door to get my run in, but he never said anything; instead, he encouraged me and always asked about the running. I'm also sure he would have preferred countless conversations about something other than running or marathons, yet he never switched the topic when I droned on about both. Running has become a big part of my life over the past 18 months and this marathon has been an even bigger part in the past 4 months, but instead of resenting the time and effort I spend on it, my husband has only supported my interest. I wouldn't be headed to Disney if it weren't for him. Of course, he is the one who's driving.

Secondly, I'd like to thank my friends: All of them here in South Florida, all of them back in MN, and all of them scattered in a few other states! Everyone has taken a keen interest in my 'thon experience and they have continously offered support and encouragement that has been invaluable (some of the guys even so generously offered to have me run to the strip club to pick them up -- ahh, you can't buy friends like that!). And I would especially like to thank Erin, who knew that I was nervous this week and has thus peppered me with emails, calls, and a sushi dinner to help pep me up and encourage me -- she will probably worry enough for the both of us, so maybe I won't need to as much -- thanks Erin!

Third, I'd like to thank my family and my husband's family -- all of whom I know will be thinking of me on Sunday morning and who, I know, love me if I finish or not!

And lastly, a HUGE thanks to my fellow RBFers!! When I started this blog a year and a half ago, I could've never imagined that I would become part of such a tight knit running community! Everyone's advice, suggestions, help, encouragement, humor, and support have made this marathon training, and before that -- all of this running -- so much easier. Even though I've never met any of you in person, I feel like I have a big team of friends out there, so thanks -- it's been invaluable to have you all!

Alright, I think that's it! Thanks again, and I'll report to you on Sunday! Cross your fingers for me!

It May Seem Silly, but...

...now that I have planned my marathon outfit, I feel more prepared.

I would show you a picture of my outift, but either Blogger or my home computer is being a be-atch and I can't seem to load the pic.

Anyway, I am wearing my fav Nike shorts with a Reebok short-sleeved technical shirt which should do its duty and wick away all that sweat, my fav Brooks sports bra (I know, I'm mixing many brands, but I'm not loyal like that), a new pair of Balega socks (I heart them -- they are awesome) and my Brooks shoes, which are relatively new -- bought them about three weeks ago (new enough to be radical, but broken in enough to, hopefully, leave me blister-free).

So, I'm set.

The forecast in Orlando calls for a nice day, so I think these choices will work well.

Gotta go: I need to get my last short run in, and pack the rest of my stuff. I'll leave you with a short post tomorrow and then I'm off to Disney!!

P.S. I don't pick up my bib and race packet until I get to the Expo, but my race # on my packet info is 6978, not sure if that will be my actual bib # or not, but it bodes well: "69" always an awesome #, and "78" is my birth year, also tubular (yes, I'm trying to bring back Ninja Turtle talk). So, if you are so inclined to track me via the Internet on Sunday, you can use that #.

The Numbers, Some of Them

Days until the marathon: 4.

Hours until the marathon: 86.

Number of training runs left: 2.

Miles left to run in training: 6.

Number of miles to Disney: 180.

Miles to run in the marathon: 26.2

Estimated hours to run marathon: 5 1/2.

Number of miles from Disney back home: 180.

Amount I am freaking out: unmeasurable.

The Warm Air...Ahhh!

I ran yesterday for the first time back in FL and it felt wonderful! The air was so deliciously warm and moist, I could have kissed it. I guess it takes running in a different climate to appreciate the weather I get to enjoy here all year round.

P.S. The marathon dreams (or, "nightmares"?) have commenced: So far, I have dreamt that I slept through the marathon, dreamt that I started late, and dreamt that I forgot hair ties and had to run with my hair all over the place. I suspect dreams involving my clothing or shoes are next.

Happy New Year!

This is probably the first new year in many new years where I didn't wake up feeling hungover -- that has to mean something good, right? My husband and I decided to stay home last night and do, well, nothing. We were so exhausted from our trip that we just didn't feel up to a party, so we stayed in and made ourselves snacks for dinner and watched the 4th season of "Scrubs" on DVD (one of my x-mas gifts). I was in bed at 12:01!

I am not making any resolutions as of now; I do have some running goals and resolutions I'd like to add to my list and think about, but right now, I can't think of those, I have to totally focus on Sunday's marathon, which is pretty much consuming my thoughts all the time anyway. Once I get through Sunday, then I can think about future races, times, goals, etc, but for now -- all I can think about is finishing that race. (As a side note: Has everyone read Kristin Armstrong's article in RW about Lance's NYC marathon? I thought it was a great article, and she was the perfect one to write it.)

Okay, so thinking and talking about the marathon leads me to two questions I have for the RBF:

1. What should I wear marathon day? The race begins at 6 am (I have to be at the start gate at 4 am! UGH!) so it will be cool then -- probably in the 50 degree range, but it will get warm -- probably in the 70 degree range and it's FL, so it's always slightly humid, and I will certainly take 5 hours to run the race (and I'm running, and I'm a sweat monkey!). So, I definitely want to wear shorts, but what kind of shirt? And should I start with a sweatshirt or long sleeved shirt? What's your professional opinions?

2. I always run with my MP3 player, but I see many people who, during a race such as this, are not running with music. The Disney stuff says nothing about MP3's being off-limits, and I think I need my tunes! What say you guys? Do you cart the music with you to marathons? Is it kosher to keep the music during the race?

Home Sweet Home

Phew, it was a long trip! There are many stories to tell and share, yet I think I will keep it short and simple:

• Driving 2,000 miles and back again is TOO far (we nicknamed the trip: "The Cuba to Canada Cruisade")! Scooter was very good in the car and he mostly slept (he has sprung back from his injury as if nothing ever happened). As for the states we covered, I can say this: Iowa -- boring, Tenessee and Kentucky -- beautiful, but filled with a few characters from "Deliverance," Illinois -- long, Georgia -- they want to sell you lots of boiled peanuts, and Florida? It feels like the blessed land now!
• We saw, literally, a hundred friends and family members. It was great to see so many people, but I feel like it was a marathon of visiting, eating, drinking, talking, and picture sharing. Every single day was busy with people to see, and it wore me out! But it was also loads of fun (had a little too much fun at my brother's b-day party -- I barfed in his kitchen sink!) and Christmas was great (lots of good loot!).
• I did my running, but failed to get the 20 in like I thought I might. Running in MN was hard for me: It was cold (although, according to Minnesotans, it was like a heat wave at 30 degrees) so the air kinda burned my lungs, it was windy, and there were hills. One day I ran 6 miles into the wind at 30 degrees (probably less with the wind chill) up and down hills; I felt as though I'd run twice that far! I have my last "long" run tomorrow -- 8 miles -- and then it's a few short ones, and the marathon is 7 days from today!! Needless to note, I am starting to get both nervous and excited (mostly nervous).

Well, I have only begun to make a dent in the unpacking and the house looks like a bomb went off, so I'd best get back to it! Hope everyone had a great holiday -- I'll read your resolutions tomorrow.

Renewed

First of all, thanks to everyone for the advice and encouragement lately, it has been a big help. Ever since Thanksgiving, things have felt stressful and strained for me, and the running has definitely taken the back seat to some other things. But today, I feel much improved in mood and I feel like renewing my marathon committment.

I feel so much better today than I have in a week! For one thing, Scooter is MUCH better now -- he got his stitches and shunts out today and he's back to his old self, so that's a HUGE relief to both me and my husband. Secondly, I finished everything with the semester, including the issue with the student who wanted his grade changed -- to have this semester behind me is a blessing; it was busy! Lastly, we have all our stuff ready for our trip to MN, and we leave this afternoon. I have to do some last minute packing and some cleaning (I wouldn't dare to leave a dirty house!) and then we're off at 3 pm.

Changing from the full marathon to the half has crossed my mind, but after carefully thinking about it, I think I have to give the full marathon my best try. I'm going to try and re-do the 20 while we're in MN; otherwise, even if I don't get it done, I have done an 18, 16, 14, 13, etc so I feel I've put in some long distances and have tried to be as consistent as possible, and I'll just have to see what race day brings. I can certainly say, though, that this first marathon experience makes me want to do another marathon just so I can do the training better (generally, I do something wrong the first time, learn from the mistakes and then do it much better another time around), but I have resolved to give Disney my best effort possible! So, I have to think positively about it and shed the self-doubt that has weighed me down lately.

Thanks again for the thoughts and comments: I will be out of town for the next 2 weeks, so posts will be sporadic, if at all. Enjoy your holidays!! And I'll talk to everyone again soon!

The 20 That Didn't Happen

This morning, I started out ready for the 20, nervous, but ready. I got on the road at 5 am, just like I'd planned and was fine, but then my stomach was doing this gurgle-gurgle thing in the first mile. At the end of the second mile it was doing this flip-flop thing that signals breakfast is on its way back up. I stopped, leaned over and waited for the barf, but it didn't come. It's been awhile since barfing and running have gone hand in hand, so this was curious.

I started to trot again but my stomach was seriously icky, and then, as if God agreed, the heavens opened up and it started to rain. At first it was a drizzle, then it was a downpour. I turned around and headed home feeling both naseous and defeated.

Total miles: 4.

I feel like poop about it. All kinds of doubt and uncertainty are clogging my brain right now: Can I do this marathon? Am I capable? What does it mean to miss the 20? I've heard many declare that they were unable to run their 20, but were fine; however, I feel like I've missed so many runs in the course of my training, will I be fine?

Good lord, this week has really raked me over the emotional and mental coals.

4 am

First of all, "thanks" to everyone who responded to the post below; your input was valuable and it looks as though there is overwhelming support to let the grade stand. I also counseled with some fellow instructors and my department chair who all echoed your sentiments, so even though I haven't contacted the student with my decision yet, I do believe I will leave the grade alone and allow him to suffer the consequences.

But back to the running...

As per this post's title, it is currently 4:14 am, ugh. I am planning my 20 miler this morning and I want to get it done first thing, so I plan on leaving home here around 5 (currently, I'm trying to wake up a little -- eating some cereal for pre-run fuel and drinking a cup of coffee to help with the "waking up"). So, why am I doing the 20 today and not this weekend? I had to bump it up in the schedule because we leave for our trip to MN tomorrow, and it will probably take us 2 1/2 or 3 days to get there (we're driving -- taking the Scooter dog with us, who is doing much better, thanks for the concern on his part) and so I won't have an opportunity to accomplish the long run this weekend -- and trust me, I'm not relishing the 3 days in the car after 20, I suspect I will be very sore.

I will fill you guys in later today on how it went; cross your fingers for me -- it's a long way to go!

*6 am edit: The 20 did not "go." I will explain later -- right now, I feel like crawling back into bed, pulling the covers over my head, and re-emerging sometime in the second week of January (after this marathon has passed).*

Survey Says...

Okay, this has nothing to do with running, but I have dilemma and perhaps you guys can help solve it. I have a student who is bothering me to get his grade changed. Here are the facts:

Student profile: Constantly late, often absent, turns in late work, all work was either F or D quality. He is, apparently, very involved in clubs, organizations, and student council, and claims to have been too busy with all of those committments to focus on my class (I'd had a conversation with him mid-term explaining that while it's great to be involved in activities, he's in college for an academic purpose and he'd better get his priorities in order). I gave him a D for the course, which -- trust me -- already felt generous.

His petition: He turned in his last paper after I had already submitted grades (which means it was over a week late); therefore, I didn't fully assess him. He needs a C to pass the course (college requirement for writing courses), but he's not asking for that; he wants a C- or D+ (yes, college has a + and - system) because if he doesn't bring up his GPA, he's out of college (he must be on academic probation).

My stance: He knew through the course of the semester that he was doing poorly, yet I saw no real initiative to improve his grades, his attendance or his tardiness (something that particularly irks me). I think he deserves the D. However, I'm not cold-hearted and I think students do deserve another chance if they are truly deserving or have had some major difficulties in the course of the semester (though, I don't think that being busy with student council is a justified "major difficulty" -- I had a student who was diagnosed with cancer this term and she finished the semester and finished all her work!).

My dilemma: Will standing my ground on his grade cause more problems than it's worth? On the other hand, I do still think of myself as an instructor with integrity (god knows how many more years that will last) and is it fair to change this student's grade when there were other students who worked hard all semester, were on time, were there every time, turned their work in on time? If I'm willing to change a grade willy-nilly, does their hard work count?

These are the troubling questions, my friends. What's the consensus? Do I change his grade from a D to either a D+ or C-? Or do I stand my ground and leave his grade, and subsequently, he will be kicked out of the university?

Feeling Better

It was true: After I showered and took an allergy pill (I was getting all boogery), I felt better. Then, I had a good night's sleep and got to sleep in, so that made me feel better. Plus, Scooter really is improved today -- he's eating, drinking water, and is up walking around some, so that improves my spirits.

I guess every once in awhile, I need a mini-breakdown and now that it has passed, everything I was so burdened with last night feels lighter today.

Blech

Tonight, I feel *blue* or as Holly Golightly would say: "I've got the mean reds."

I've spent the day watching over and worrying about Scooter. It's disheartening to see my dog, who is usually so energetic and boisterous, barely able to sit up. He has no interest in food or water, and it's weird to open the refrigerator and not have him at my heels. The stress and anxiety have taken their toll today, so this evening I decided to make room for a short run -- figuring it would be a good stress reliever, but in the middle of it, I felt overwhelmed with grief.

It's not just about Scooter -- although he is currently the source of my tension -- it's about four months of pent-up emotional, mental, and physical strain and it suddenly feels quite burdensome.

My family, which was previously so dysfunctional I didn't think it could get any less functional, has been experiencing what I only care to call here a "weird" time. ( I could spend about 200 pages talking about my family, but I have spent much effort and have drunk many beers to try and assuage that gaping wound; I don't care to delve into any kind of depth here, sorry.) And to help keep my mind off the drama there, I have buried myself in this semester's work, and for nearly two months there, I was teaching nine classes (five is a full-time schedule, I accepted six as an overload in order to receive some more pay, and then took an additional class at another university two days a week, and then ended up long-term subbing for eight weeks for two other classes) and even once I went back to my "regular" schedule in late October, I still had the original seven classes that I now am ending the term with.

It's hard to express how many papers I have read this semester.

On top of those two burdensome loads, I have been training for this marathon with its dizzying fluctuation of emotional and physical duress. Add to that the holidays, preparation for an upcoming trip, the end of the semester, and now my injured dog, and, well, it's enough to make a girl feel positively sapped. So in the middle of my run this evening, I found myself weeping (and not the good I-feel-better-now crying but the oh-god-I've-opened-flood-gates crying) and I HATE crying. I know it's supposed to make me feel better, but I actually always feel embarrassed and weak and humiliated when I break down in tears (this is why I try my best to hold them in at most costs) even when alone.

Running usually makes me feel better, but right now it feels like one more weight I have to shoulder, and I feel myself straining under so much heaviness.

Logic tells me that I will take a shower and feel better, and then have a good night's sleep and feel better, and then maybe Scooter will be somewhat improved and I'll feel better, but right now, I don't feel good, and "better" feels a long way off.

My Poor Pup

I will spare you the gruesome images that depict his stitches and the shunts the vet had to use in order to help drain the wound -- they're a little grisly and not meant for the general Blogging public.

Here he is, though, looking pitiful in the e-cone so he won't bother his stitches. We took it off when it was apparent that he barely had the strength to stand, let alone lick his stitches. Since coming home, he's mostly been sleeping and shivering, and we have kept vigil over his bed.

Needless to say, I did not run my 14 miles today. Even though I knew my husband could take care of him just as well as I could, I just didn't feel right leaving him. I also thought about going for a shorter run, just to get some running in, but the evening dissolved before me and I was too busy petting him and soothing him.

My heart just aches over his pain. Running will have to wait.

Scooter-mergency

Poor Scooter!

He was injured earlier today at the dog park. As I mentioned in my earlier post this morning, he was gazing at me this morning with a look that said: "Please take me to the park!" So, my husband and I obliged and took him to the park. While there, he was running around, enjoying himself, when he ran into another dog. We don't know exactly what happened -- whether that dog actually bit Scooter or if his teeth just ran into Scooter when Scooter collided with him or what -- but Scooter had a huge gash in his underbelly by his back, right leg. We could see muscle and bone and it was disgusting!

My husband scooped him up and we ran out of the dog park, got in the car and drove straight to the vet, and that's where Scooter is as I type this. He had to be anesthesized (I have no idea if that is spelled right) and they were going to need to stitch on the inside and out. Poor little fella was cut pretty bad and the vet said that it would be a few hours before he would be ready to go home. My husband and I are still pretty worked up and anxious; it was so nerve-wracking that once we handed him over to the vet, we realized we were both shaking.

I think I'm going to take a personal day tomorrow so I can stay home and take care of my pup -- cross your fingers, say a prayer, wish on a star, whatever you do, and send it Scooter's way!

Annual Christmas Party

The home computer has been saved! Thank you Baby Jesus! Viruses have been removed and new anti-viral software has been installed (a note to those out there -- I do NOT reccommend Symantec's Norton: it didn't do anything effective for us) so now everything is back to running like normal, which means I can A.) post from home again, and B.) post pictures again.

So, this is me Friday night -- doing some 12 oz curls (one in each hand for balance -- you don't want one arm getting more muscular than the other). It was our annual Christmas party and Secret Santa exchange with friends, and we had a grand time. Granted, by the end of the night, my husband was wearing the cardboard Bud Light case on his head like a hat, and he broke the host's cooler, but that only means it's a successful gathering! (as long as the host's don't really care for that cooler.)

Both he and I suffered from headaches when we woke yesterday, but because we had nothing planned (for once) we were able to lay around all day and take it easy. Seriously, I didn't even cook yesterday; it was awesome!

Today, on the other hand, I have 14 miles to log and some student papers to grade. And Scooter is buggin' me to go to the dog park (his eyes say: "Mom, please take me to the dog park! I would L-O-V-E to run around for an hour or so."). So, I'd best be off. I'll let you know how the 14 goes!

Are Halos Returnable?

Because I seem to be on an every-other-day good runner pattern. Hopefully I can get my scheduled run in this afternoon, but with the way things have been this week, I can't guarantee I won't choose a nap instead.

Busy, Busy

Heaven can issue me my halo anytime now. After yesterday's stellar performance, I deserve some kind of achievement medal: I finished my x-mas shopping, got all my gifts wrapped, I finished the holiday cards and got them in the mail, I got caught up with class work, was able to get a few tasks done for our upcoming trip, AND: I got five miles in. I didn't take the Garmin along, but the run felt good and I don't need Garmin to tell me that. Today has been busy again (I'm ready for this week to be over), and I'm hoping to get today's run in tonight after my night class. It'll be a late run, but that's the only time today to get to it.

Trying to be Good

Okay, I'll 'fess up: Instead of running last night after class, I came home and watched "Last Holiday" with Queen Latifah. Despite being formulaic and predictable, it was good entertainment for 90 minutes. Sometimes, relaxing feels just as valuable as running; however, I truly can't skip running today. I must be good!

Thanks for the Garmin advice and the encouragement from everyone! I figured out how to reset the timer -- Junebug was right about holding down the "lap/reset" button. I was just pushing it earlier, and it reset the lap but wasn't re-starting the timer, but holding it down was the right move.

I'm still a little sore from Sunday's 18, but I plan on running this evening after I get home. I'm gonna need the stress relief today. It's nearing the end of the semester for me, and the rush of students and their needs is exhausting. I've been like a machine today: reading essays, meeting with students, answering emails and phone calls, and I can't wait to get home, tie up my shoes and free myself from the stress that the end of a term brings with it.

Not to mention the holiday stuff to get done (gift buying/wrapping, writing cards, planning trips); tis the season to be busy!

P.S. It's funny how this marathon has educated so many in my life about running, not just myself. Today, my mom wrote me an email to let me know that she'd been talking to a runner friend who told her about the "wall" at miles 18-20. She wanted me to know about it -- just in case I hadn't heard of it :)

Garmin and Me for 18

I may seem like I'm being a lazy blogger (not blogging for several days) but my home computer is f*d up, so I couldn't post from home over the weekend.

So, there is much to tell; however, I will focus on just the highlight: my 18 miler yesterday.

I took my pal Garmin with me and we set out in the early evening on the longest run so far. The first six miles went well, and even the first nine (my turn around point) felt pretty good, but once I hit ten, I could definitely feel myself slowing and getting tired. At twelve, I felt like I should be done, but I'd been making decent time, so I kept pluggin' away. At thirteen, I hit the "wall." I didn't want to go any farther and my legs were aching; particularly, my right hip was bothering me.

Those last five miles, and especially, the last three were slow. I would walk for a few minutes and then run for a few minutes, then walk for a few minutes. I was so tired in the last mile that I literally wanted to fall into the grass by the side of the road and be done with the whole thing; but, alas, I pressed on until the end.

Final time was just under 4 hours, which is really friggin' slow -- the last six miles took me nearly the same length of time as the first twelve miles (all that walking slowed me down significantly and by the end, every part of my body was aching). And like the sixteen, I was hurting and tired at the end. Plus, I finished with the same mixture of emotions: relief that it was done, pride that I'd finished, but apprehension that the marathon will be even more (another 8 miles!). I'm just crossing my fingers and believing that the crowd, my own adreneline, and the atmosphere of race day will carry me through to the end on marathon day.

Also, for those of you who own a Garmin, a few queries:

Does it count calories correctly? Because I stored my personal info (age, weight, etc), and I assume it calculates more accurately than I do, but for the 18 miles, it said I bured 2340 calories, and I thought that the average person burned about 100 calories per mile. And by "average" I think most calorie burn rates are based on a 150 pound person and if you weigh less, you burn less, right? I weigh about 115, so I figured I was burning far fewer calories, but could Garmin be right?

Secondly, what can interfere with a Garmin's accuracy? It said, for example, that my fastest mile was 1:17, and I KNOW I did not run a one minute mile.

And lastly, aside from deleting past runs, how can I get the timer, etc to reset at zero when beginning a new run?

Thanks for any help! I'm going to hobble (sooo sore!) off now!