Don't be Scared

The Scarrier Games and Pumpkins in the Park were on the "to do" list this week. YES!!! I was excited!  

I honestly didn't know what to expect from the Scarrier Games at Medved.  I was involved solely at first to represent The Lost Borough Brewing Company. My obligation? To pour beer after the run to participants.  Since I've grown a friendship with the guys over there, when I mentioned to them I was interested in participating and running the event, they encouraged me to go for it. I was happy they didn't mind or think it was unprofessional.  This was a working event and in my former years of  WBEE promotions, mixing "business with pleasure" would never be allowed.  And heck, maybe deep down I wanted Medved to say "no"... so it could be my "out" because I was truly intimidated of what these Scarrier Games would be like. For me, "Scarrier" meant playing with the "big dogs" again and being put on a team where I was the slowest runner, holding others back.... NOT because it was a Halloween-themed scavenger hunt in the dark around town with friends in costumes.

The day before the event, Medved posted that people could either form their team in advance, or be in the "luck of the draw" and be placed on a random team.  For this "end of the pack runner" I was THRILLED.  I wrote a post on facebook saying "Calling all Slower Runners 11-15 minute miles" to try and see who I could recruit. This made me feel so much better about the event.  Their last event did not have this option, and was half the reason I just spectated and poured beer afterwards. I had received a few responses, some from strangers (now, new friends) and others that I have run with in the past.  GOOD, I thought! The nerves at that point were gone. And, it made walking into Medved on that brisk but beautiful Tuesday night so easy... not just because everyone likes the girl bringing 7 growlers of beer to share, but because I was excited and not scared about running.

So, here's how the Scarrier Games went down. It was a timed event where teams were handed a map with different checkpoint locations scattered around town that we needed to run to.  Each checkpoint was worth certain points, some higher than others and the goal was to have our team earn the most points. In order to not be disqualified, we had FOUR mandatory checkpoints we needed to run to. The entire team had to be at each checkpoint and then post a picture for proof we had made it. 

There were also activities we could do as a team to earn more points during our run.  For example, we could video ourselves trick-or treating at houses or places of businesses... or invite a stranger to sing 'Ghostbusters' with us. It was all pure nonsense, but fun and festive. The last caveat to this challenge was that we needed to be back at the store within 75 minutes.  If you were late, your team started to lose points. For every 10 minutes you were late, you lost your highest checkpoint/activity point value.  CRAZY, huh? No pressure there, ha!!

I was the team captain for "Lost Soles"  (however I somehow didn't make the correlation and posted us as "Lost Souls" during the run. This made for a laugh after the event. Whoops!) We were lucky we had a veteran on our team who has done these types of events before AND knew how to get to the locations on the map. That was key!

As team captain, I was to help direct the group to different checkpoints and take pictures/videos along the way. But, when it came time to look at the map, I swear my hands never touched it. Our team didn't put a strategy together, or really decide where we'd run, who could run "that far" nor what pace people were at. We just ran and started the event off with such energy and enthusiasm. It was great. In the back of my head I still assumed we were all at the same pace (based on my facebook post) but didn't really know for sure since we had others join our team when we got to the store. 


Our team veteran guided us to checkpoints and really was in control. I had my job of taking the pictures and everything was going really good until.... 

There was the point of the night where we had to get to our last mandatory checkpoint. From our current location it was about a 2 mile run, up a steady incline,up Monroe Ave. The energy and fun feelings I had were put to the test. I felt defeated, but tried hard to just suppress those feelings. We had to run those 2 miles to the checkpoint, take the obligatory team picture and then run 1.5 miles back to the store... Oh, and then there was that clock we were racing against too. 

This was the very thing I was intimidated about when first thinking about doing this event.  I knew if I had known this was going to happen, I wouldn't have participated.  But at that point, it was too late to dwell on that fact and I needed to just RUN with my team. We needed to get to that checkpoint and back to the store. We all were at different paces and I was at the back. One of my teammates stayed with me for a while, and was so encouraging. During the last quarter mile, downhill back to the store I was EXHAUSTED. I ended up running 5.53 miles. I had no intention nor where with all that this was going to happen. And I knew I would have said "no" if I did. Being thrown into the mix and having to overcome the challenge allowed me to learn so much. Don't be scared.

Okay, part two of this blog post: Pumpkins in the Park. 

What a great race, on a pretty hilly course with some awesome friends.  I was able to shave about 2 minutes off last year's time, and I crossed the finish line with such a great person!! Carrie and I pushed each other when we needed it the most. I felt way more prepared this year and embraced each hill, hearing Pina's voice echo in my brain. Ironically my bib number was 365... and it made me reminisce about how last year I gave myself the goal to conquer that course with conviction. It was so rewarding to see my watch stats. My average pace was 11:44 and fastest mile was 10:51. I'll take those numbers. My watch said I ran that 5K in 37:16, and Yellow Jacket timing clocked me at 37:55.  Again, I'll take those numbers and aim to beat them next year!

Running this race with Carrie was awesome.  We haven't ran together in a while, and feeding off her determination was so inspiring. Contagious even, when I grew tired. I don't think we've ever crossed a finish line together, either... so this will be something I'll take to the memory bank.

It's been a great week... and definitely some solid steps uphill on my personal climb.  What moves me today? Aiming to being fearless. It's hard for me to do this. But, when you take a chance or put yourself out there, you get the... 

"these are the moments that, I'm gonna remember most, yeah.  Just gotta keep goin'"

...that you don't intend to get!

#theclimb

Ready, Set, GLOW!

"Let's all run some trails, in the dark with glow sticks" they said... and like that, I was game!  Heck, maybe they didn't even say it exactly like that, or specifically even ask, but those are the words I told myself when looking into doing this "fun run" a couple months back. Honestly, I think I sought out the chance and perfect opportunity to hang with the "big dogs" and once again be in the pack of some amazing runners and friends.

What. A. Night.  I bet if you asked Pina or Pippa if I enjoyed myself, they would probably have a hard time answering.  I was so looking forward to this night, days and hours leading up to that moment when we would hear "GOOOO".  When we pulled in the parking lot, I felt ready and eager to go share this experience with friends!  

When it was time, we all hustled up a grassy hill into the woods to begin our 5ish mile mission. Single file, in a pretty defined "single track" our lights illuminated Dryer Road Park.  One foot in front of the other we formed lines of people on a mission to conquer this trek!

Over the course of the race, I stumbled... a bunch of times. Even though you heard considerate racers in front of you scream "Roots" (which was probably uttered at least a thousand times) or "High Step", "Log", "Step Down"... etc, it was only a warning to try to prepare your body for your next step.

I've always been clumsy... that's no secret...  but last night was a challenge for such a clumsy girl. Throw in some pretty intense inclines, THE DARK WOODS, and sharp declines... and you have a salad of possibilities. Yep a salad... and around the middle of mile three, I added the dressing with a pretty big spill on my left foot.  That stupid left foot is always my demise.

While allowing others to pass by, I tried to gain my composure. I'm sure the tears on my face glistened as headlamps moved on ahead, but at that point, I didn't care. Okay, well maybe a little... but it was short lived. I tried to insist to Pina and Pippa to continue on so I could have a moment in some self pity... but c'mon, they are as stubborn as I am... and just ignored my words and helped me up. My pride was damaged and wondered how bad my ankle was at that moment. As we finished the run, they tried to keep the mood light, and looking back I feel bad that I just remained silent and fixated at that finish line. I have such amazing friends!!!! 

Today, as I look up and see that swollen bump on my left ankle, wrapped up in an ace bandage with a huge wegmans bag filled with ice on it... I'm not angry anymore... but EXCITED that I had raced. It's all just part of The Climb, right?

Thanks Pina, thanks Pippa... and to Carrie, Moogle, Gina and my hubby James for hanging out last night.  I'll always remember my first official Trails ROC experience, and I'll be back again for some more fun! The entire running community in Rochester is truly special and unique... and I love being part of it!!!!! That's what moves me today.

The Climb

It's no secret that music holds a special meaning to me.  I've mentioned before how sometimes it can be the only driving force I have in my tool belt to complete a run.  A certain song can get me to continue on, STOP, or help take me to a place that my mind may need to be at that exact moment.  

So it's no surprise that I've found yet another song that I am going to hold on to for the next... eh?... let's say 8 months or so.   A song that I think is fitting as I prepare for my next year of running.  

Insert "The Climb"

I'm coming off to what was an exciting spring and summer. I was able enjoy some great times with my family, running in the morning with Pina, and watching my husband and friends complete soooo many amazing milestones.  (I wonder how many miles Pippa, Moogle, Gina, Carrie & Pina logged while training and finishing many half marathons and trail runs.) 

I also was able to see my main squeeze complete Segahunda, aka HIS FIRST MARATHON, which happened to be considered an "Ultra" in the trails Letchworth State Park.  

After that he (and my fearless friend, Pina) went on to do this all day and all night trail race called The Mighty Mosquito. This ultimately prepared James for running 21 miles total over three legs with 11 others that made up his Ragnar Adirondacks team.  Needless to say, I am inspired. Inspired to take on a more active role with my running. Inspired and motivated about setting some goals out there of my own... and getting the work done beforehand to achieve them!
Last week I started.  I ran far more many miles last week than I had in a long while.  I also began to plan ahead a schedule I could follow.  It feels amazing.  Rain didn't stop me, nor did the excuses of "next week I'll start" linger in my brain.  I went out of my comfort zone and signed up for a 5ish mile trail race back in August after seeing friends complete The Mighty Mosquito, and last week they held a preview for it. I had to go... and I'm so glad I did.  This Saturday is the real deal and there are so many friends (and James) doing the Glow Run... it's going to be awesome!  On top of that, I have two more races in October.  Both are 5k's and both are what is motivating me to train... to jump start this "year"  or "next 8 months" in high gear.

I have a desire to keep increasing my pace and feeling comfortable in it for longer distances. I have Seneca 7 on the horizon (hoping we can get a spot in this very popular race), the Segahunda relay and if I can form a team of 4, perhaps the Winter Warrior relay race.  While all this is going on, Pittsburgh 2016 is there in the background.  Pina is running the FULL... yes, the FULL and I can't be more proud and supportive for this.  As of now, as I type these words, the only thing I can commit and wrap my brain around is PR'ing the 5K in Pittsburgh.  However, while training and picking up miles with Pina as she gets ready for achieving 26.2 status, I hope to piggy back off that to get my distance up there as well.  And there is this small hope and/or tiny bug that I have that when Pittsburgh comes, I could be confident and ready to crush that half marathon. I already know that if I sign up now, I won't like running for the next 8 months.  That "I have to run and train because I signed up for this mammoth amazing race" is not going to be the motivation I will need.  I already know it, so why put myself in that situation.  However, telling my brain that "I'm running because I want to, and log miles with Pina as she follows her path and goal" is something I'm so eager to do. 

So, what moves me today? The Climb.  And I know I will refer back to this song countless times. It motivates me today, and I am prepared for it to anger me, cause me to break down in tears, or bring a smile to my face over and over again.

Tonight we're meeting to run the preview for our race on Halloween... a tough course, uphill most of the way, but together we'll endure that climb together.

And so, it begins!

I can almost see it
That dream I am dreaming
But there's a voice inside my head saying
"You'll never reach it"

Every step I'm taking
Every move I make feels
Lost with no direction
My faith is shaking

But I gotta keep trying
Gotta keep my head held high
Chorus:
There's always gonna be another mountain
I'm always gonna wanna make it move
Always gonna be a uphill battle
Sometimes I'm gonna have to lose

Ain't about how fast I get there
Ain't about what's waiting on the other side
It's the climb

The struggles I'm facing
The chances I'm taking
Sometimes might knock me down
But no, I'm not breaking

I may not know it
But these are the moments that
I'm gonna remember most, yeah
Just gotta keep going

And I, I got to be strong
Just keep pushing on
Chorus:
'Cause there's always gonna be another mountain
I'm always gonna wanna make it move
Always gonna be a uphill battle
Sometimes I'm gonna have to lose

Ain't about how fast I get there
Ain't about what's waiting on the other side
It's the climb, yeah! 
Chorus:
There's always gonna be another mountain
I'm always gonna wanna make it move
Always gonna be an uphill battle
Somebody's gonna have to lose

Ain't about how fast I get there
Ain't about what's waiting on the other side
It's the climb, yeah! 

Keep on moving, keep climbing
Keep the faith, baby
It's all about, it's all about the climb
Keep the faith, keep your faith, whoa

Not All Runs are Created Equal

When the opportunity to run a 10K in one of my favorite towns, to help raise funds and awareness for a great local organization presented itself, I couldn't resist.

My family has been going to Clayton for years. I always love stopping by each time we visit "The Islands". Whether it's to escape a "bad boat day" or to stock up on cheese from River Rat, this place holds many summer memories. So, when the Save The River 5K/10K happened to be going on during a weeked we were scheduled to be there, how could I not participate?

​  

"This will my first 10K", I kept saying and after signing up in the beginning of June, the excitement grew as each week passed. I tried to stay honest with my workouts and early morning runs with Pina. Hills became a norm whether they greeted me in Spencerport, Tuesday nights, or on the trails with Amy. I started eating healthier and consistent and aimed to drink more water daily. Granted, it wasn't specifically to prep for the race, but it was always an afterthought while doing it. And it was also a great excuse to purchase new sneakers, too!

Before I knew it, the morning of the race was here. I felt prepared. I felt nervous, and knew that the distance shouldn't scare me. It didn't either. I blamed whatever I was feeling

on the pre-run butterflies that hang out in my stomach before a race. 

The St. Lawrence River was calm and the morning felt still, complete with an overcast sky and slight breeze. 

We planned it perfectly and "Big Red" (aka our minivan) rolled into Clayton just in time to score a great place to park. James and I were one of the first to pick up our race packets and first in line to use the restrooms. 

Everything was going great!​

​

 

When it was time to begin, the blow horn sounded to send off all the 5K & 10K racers. It was one loop for the 5K and back around again for the 10K. Halfway through the first loop I noticed a few things. First off, I couldn't keep myself at a consistent pace. I kept going faster than I wanted to and holding myself at a 12 min pace seemed impossible. I tried to not let it bother me. I had a stitch to work out while trying to figure out why those damn butterflies were overstaying their "pre-run" welcome. The sun came out strong the minute the course veered away from the cool breeze off the river, but that wasn't hard to deal with. I reminisced about those cold long runs enduring negative windchill temps. What was hard? The growing feeling of loneliness.

The second half of the first loop seemed to take forever, but how? I kept at an 11:40ish pace, slowly passing other runners, stollers and families out for their "fun run".  The course went out over a footbridge to a neighboring island and we ran around this quaint little housing track.  As I approached the entrance I was able to see my husband run out and we slapped hands as we passed each other. It was cool knowing and seeing we were both in this!

As I approached the end of the first loop, the stitch I had felt better, but the butterflies, nerves and loneliness was pretty intense. My breathing was off and all I wished was that Pina, Melinda or Carrie was there with me. I had to make a decision, right then and there if I was going to keep going or finish to what I suspect could have been my fastest 5K to date. I was torn. I knew I'd regret not going for the 10K, plus of course when I put my ear buds back in my ears, (after the quick water station break) Bruno Mars happened to be singing the lyrics "You better run".) That was the sign I needed. And so I ran on.

I wasn't even done with mile 4 before I broke down. I didn't feel right and I was filled to the brim with self-doubt. I wondered how many were actually running the 10k. I felt like I was the only one out there as roads became more busy with cars. Did everyone running behind me only run the 5K?

As all of these thoughts raced in my head, I kept getting interrupted as race volunteers and crossing guards asked "Are you the last runner?" or "Do you know if anyone is behind you?"as I ran by.

Besides feeling like the slowest snail in the world, I FELT LIKE AN INCONVENIENCE.  

I felt that my "slow a** " (to quote my inner voice) is "keeping these people out here" when they had better things to do. 

I tried telling myself to just ignore them... To ensure my mind that, I WILL FINISH... But, after the 3rd time I was asked "Are you still racing?" (since perhaps she thought I could be a runner who was going on a "post-race-run" maybe??).. I was DONE, DONE!

I told the woman, who was just about to stop traffic for me that "I was still racing, but now I am dropping out." She replied "Ok, you can do that" and I proceeded to turn left and continue down the sidewalk down Main Street. I was about a half mile away from the start line. One of the toughest point five-zero mile walk in a long time. I cried... in anger at the race, in anger at myself and I was completely embarrassed about having to tell Yellow Jacket Racing that I DNF'ed.

I dreaded going up to my family, my in-laws and kids, that were patiently waiting to watch me run by and finish... that "I was done and that we could go home now".

I gained composure, and when I approached my incredible cheering section, I exclaimed "I wanted to run 4.67 miles instead". I think I was convincing at that moment in time... at least I tried to not let the kids see that anything was wrong with me.

Later, after debriefing with Pina, I was able to talk to James about the race. Talking really helped and I have high hopes for that next 10K race, whenever it may cross my path. 

Not all runs are created equal, but every run can teach you something if you're open to learn.  And that's what moves me today... learning from a tough run to make the next one stronger!!

Running Slow

Waking up this morning immediately took me back to a year ago. My destination was the Spencerport canal to meet my partner crime.  There is no better recipe to help start the day, the week off on the right foot!  It was foggy and a light rain began to fell, and I knew Pina was not going to be in love with the weather... but she also knows how rain and water doesn't bother me one bit.  (Infact, I kinda like it... but that's probably the Aquarius in me talking).

Three miles along the canal just like clockwork.  I swear I wish I knew how many times we took that route.  You would think it would get old and boring, and sometimes it does... but it also "brings me back to the basics" and holds a special meaning.  That gravel path is the place where I've learned so much about me as runner.... especially with the help of Pina who is able to see what I'm feeling and knows what I need without even saying more than a few words. Today "It hurts" is all that I needed to say.  "Give me 30 seconds" she says. And just like that, I knew this amazing runner and friend would somehow make running "fun" again.  Somehow in her bag of tricks and knowledge she'd take this bad point and help me work through it.  In my mind, I expected her to just slow me down gradually and bring me back to my normal 13:00 minute pace.  NOPE! That was the exact opposite of what she did.  Again, somehow she pushed me to increase my speed and 30 seconds later, she checked in and said, "how are you now?". 

It's incredible to think that this woman knows me as well as she does. All I needed to do was give her 30 seconds and she had made my body fall back into the groove allowing my breathing to get back on point. "I feel better" I exclaimed. 

We continued to run and she explained that all I needed to do was to get out of the 13's.  I gasped, "REALLY?" 

Thinking about this now, I should have known that was the answer.  Just like a child who needs constant reinforcement and continued reminding about any task in life... for some reason I seem to forget that very important fact. Insert (that overall theme about running) MIND OVER MATTER.  My mind is still stuck in the 13's while my body is slowly pushing to exceed more... and capable of running faster...and I'm holding it back.  Pina has been trying to get that concept ingrained in my brain forever it seems.  She has my complete trust in everything... why is my mind fighting her?

So, today I told her I'm turning over a new leaf.  We have big plans for the summer. (Don't we always have big plans, ha?) 

What moves me today? Allowing myself to grow a little faster in pace and telling my mind to shut the heck up.

On Wednesday I will face a trail race.  Dirt Cheap, here I come!  I have some pretty awesome trail shoes to break in and I can't think of a better way to do it.  James and Pina will both be there, along with some other awesome and tough friends who I look to for inspiration  I'm beyond excited!!!!!!

Dear Pina, Thanks for always being there to push and to show me how much more confident I need to be in myself. Whether I'm wearing sneakers or even just in plain shoes.  Your friendship and support is truly indescribable. I often hope that I give back just as much as you give me... but then I realize that in some way I probably (hopefully) do. I really do love you!!

Being a Spectator: Runners of Steel

Sneakers? CHECK. Race clothes CHECK. Bulletproof vest (aka "the really cool just-purchased at yesterday's expo" Under Armour undershirt) CHECK. Did you glide your feet? "Nope, doing it now....CHECK. Bib and gear? CHECK! 

After making sure she had everything, (including hugs from 'her girls') Pina left the hotel room and was off to go run the Pittsburgh Half Marathon.

We ate a quick breakfast and then filed out of the hotel, with our homemade signs (that were a bit awkward to carry) and coffee in hand. We headed to our first predetermined view point, Sixteenth & Liberty St.  Man, you could just feel the excitement in the air. I wasn't even running and still those happy nervous butterflies found their way to my stomach. We found a great spot and lined up next to others who were just as excited to cheer on their loved ones like us. The energy was AWESOME!!

We didn't need to wait long before waves of runners filled the street. Whether they tasked themselves to complete the marathon, half marathon or relay... they were 2 miles in on their journey at this point in the race. I think most were in good spirits as I scanned faces for Pina. Many smiled as they passed by the crowds of people, hearing the screaming words of encouragement. Many just looked determined, focused on that finish line. At first, the girls and I had to figure out how to gauge when Pina would pass by. All we knew was to "look for her in a blue shirt"... oh and that she enjoys running down the middle of the street. Can you imagine how many of the 20,000 plus runners were wearing a blue shirt?

We saw pacers holding signs, but then needed to distinguish if they were for the full or half. Lisa then reminded us that Pina was in corral D.... and we soon realized that there would be a break for each group. A's passed by, B's, C's...... And then came the D's. Like promised, Pina and her "I ran the Rochester Half Marathon" blue shirt came trotting passed us down the center of the street. She looked stronger than ever! We chanted "GO PINA" for a quick minute, and without wasting any time, we were off to our next spot.

At our second viewpoint, the waves of A,B,C & D runners had started to blend in a little. I began looking at the runner bibs passing by since it had their wave letter on the top right. We kept track of the pacers and the timed signs they were holding while also taking into consideration how fast Pina's "gazelle-legs" (to quote Carrie) were going at that part of the race.  Before long, we all saw that blue shirt happily strutting down the street. When Pina passed us this time, she was a lot closer  (Yay, we picked the right side) and Melinda got a great pic of her! She looked excited to see us and more of the signs we had made her!

The third and final time we saw Pina was around mile 12. We battled crowds and closed streets to find a great spot to watch her.  It was incredible seeing the caliber of athletes run pass, while thousands of people lined the big city streets. The four of us were proud, as we dawned our pink shirts that represented the NoBoundaries program and Rochester Fleet Feet Sports. We wore these pink shirts during NoBo 2.0 last summer, where we all became stronger runners and friends. We were united then, and were united now to cheer on our coach, mentor and friend.

The excitement grew at each viewpoint, but at this spot, it was overflowing! Live music and spectators gave these runners a huge welcome as they ran down the slope of the last bridge. I was anxious and excited and eagerly searched through the crowed of runners for Pina's face. We all did, unified in the task together to chant "Pina, Pina, PINA" the second we saw her.  And then, once again, there she was. 

Just typing these words brings back the goosebumps and emotions of seeing her achieve this huge accomplishment. She had a that strong smile on her face as she passed, knowing she was almost home. She was doing it!!! After that, we quickly regrouped, wiped the tear (or tears in my case) away so we could get to the finishing area to greet her!

I couldn't believe how emotional it was even just being a spectator this weekend. It was so fun cheering all these incredible athletes! It was rewarding to get grins and appreciation for my "random runner" sign. I know I always love running by complete strangers with brightly colored encouraging signs, and now it was my turn to be "that stranger"! 

This was such an amazing race to be part of. Maybe it's because I know now what running a half marathon means to a person. Or maybe it's because I was able to share this experience with "The Girls" to support Pina. 

It's probably both.

However, all I know is that I'll always remember this!

Thanks for an incredible weekend, Girls.
What moves me today? The FOUR of you do!

My own "Here and Now" 13.1 miles

Approaching mile 10 was one of the defining moments of yesterday's achievement. I know it may be an odd place to start this blog post. Especially since so many things happened before that moment.. However, it's the only thing I can think about right now as I try to sum up my first half marathon experience.  I had just endured the long and the "lowest" point of the race, roughly three miles up the winding hills and slopes in Mt. Hope cemetery.  There was a chill in the air and "my girls" were splattered all throughout the racecourse.  Ahead of me and in back of me, but we were still all in this together. I was alone with my thoughts (in the "Here and Now" to quote Peg) in such a beautiful and peaceful place.  I knew if I could get to mile 10, all I had was a 5K left. That's what Christine said on one of our training runs, and I already had a plan in place when I had reached that point. I held onto her words the entire race until it was time...

"Okay Divina... you only have a little bit more until you're done. Ignore the fact that your right arm is frozen and you can't open and close your hand. Put on your ear buds and blast your 3.1 mile playlist and don't you dare think about walking! This is the part you were waiting for and now it's time to prove that YOU CAN DO THIS!"

Insert this song:

Something about this song makes me feel invincible.

"Oh we got our feet on the ground and we're burning it down"

"Everybody stands as she goes by, cause they can see the flame that's in her eyes"

I knew this song could pump me up and rejuvenate my emotions and my mind. Maybe it could take me back to a week ago where I crushed my first leg of the Seneca 7.  

And guess what, IT DID!

Now that I was "on fire" I knew the next song on my playlist was going to make me even more focused for that finish line.

I know I've written my feelings about this song before but the way the beat, the chorus and a handful of fragment lyrics catch me at the right moment is what I wait for as I'm trudging along.  Eminem gets angry at the end of the song and I love the passion he has.  It's contagious. And when I'm at that point where my mind tries to get the best of me, screaming to stop.... this song allows me to scream right back  "feet fail me not this may be the only opportunity I got".

Every moment before this point of the race was truly special. 

This day wasn't just about me finishing. It was about strangers running for their own reasons and facing the challenge inside their minds.  Some ran in memory of a loved one, some ran with disabilities they battle each and every day.  It was truly moving and I was so proud of every single one of them!  Seeing raw emotions exposed on so many racers, friends and family who came out to support was overwhelming. 

I was able to see my cousin before her 5K race... a cousin that inspired me two Thanksgiving's ago to try this "whole running thing" as she ran passed me (while I walked the course) at the Webster Turkey Trot 2013.  She got me to tear up, and I hoped at that moment she knew how incredibly proud of her I was with everything she's accomplished.

Hearing the National Anthem sung before the race, running under the mammoth American flag that hung high above the course made it feel like a mission, and we'd all succeed at the end. I was with great friends, new friends and people who were there on day 1 (February 2, 2014) of this running journey.  It was such an incredible feeling.

During the race my husband rode around in his bike with my son and daughter in the trailer attached behind it. He came to various view points along the racecourse. While offering his support and love, he also made our children be part of this experience. To cheer for complete strangers and to hopefully show them that health, exercise and hard work can pay off... and that we'll always be there for them at their finish lines.  I can't find the word to describe what it meant for me to have them there yesterday.

When I came around one of the last bends before the finish line, I saw those three amazing people. I think I had maybe 1.5 miles left. It was awesome. I was able to give James one last kiss while he put the {much needed} arm sleeves back on my arm and offered a glove so my right hand could attempt to warm up. At that point, I could taste the finish line.

As I ran the last .8 mile of the race, my sister Jen greeted me and ran beside me for a little bit.  She told me she had seen Pina ahead of me, and that I looked so strong. It was the last push I needed to feel confident running passed the crowd lined up greeting all the runners home. She left when it was time for me to embrace everything I had worked for leading up to this point.  Man, was that stretch amazing or what!?!

Again, seeing so many faces that helped me get to that point of the day and faces of people who had already finished their race truly was the greatest feeling I've ever felt as a runner! 

As Ellen announced my arrival, I saw Pina standing there and I couldn't keep the tears in anymore. We had done it.. and together we were able to celebrate our achievement! Proud moment right there for sure, and something I'll hold close to my heart!

Alright Finish Line... I'll say the same thing I did to you a year ago. I'll be back to see you again, and I promise to look at you at the end of that race too, so you can push me to set my next goal.

Seneca 7 - Chafing The Dream

I never would have thought that joining a relay team back in January would have given me such an amazing experience like the one I had yesterday. Wait, let's take a step back.... First, I never thought I would ever join a relay team where I would be held responsible for running upwards to 9+ miles over the course of 12 hours. That was "something" my husband always did, but now I know why.  Yesterday I was part of a team that ran 77.7 miles around Seneca Lake. 

There were 21 legs that had a certain number of miles attached to it and 7 runners (including myself) each had 3 legs to run. I had leg #2, #9 & #16 and ran a little more than 9 miles total. The legs went in order (of course) and after your first leg, you would wait to run your next one once everyone on the team finished their first leg.
We drove around in a minivan, cheering on our teammate by honking and ringing cowbells out the window as we passed them on the road while heading to the next checkpoint. There, the next runner would be ready to receive the official (and sweaty, mind you) Seneca 7 slap bracelet, and then they were off.  We congratulated that runner who had just finished, recorded their arrival time and then hopped back in the car to do it all over again.

Rich, a good friend that James works with put together EVERYTHING for our day of fun.  This guy is pretty awesome and a great planner. (Makes me wonder why James gets along so well with him.. a brother from another mother perhaps??) He packed our food, gave us all a 
checklist of things to bring, and carted our sweaty butts all day in his own van. We had maps, water, great company and even team shirts so Chafing The Dream could all be unified!

I, could not have asked for a better team.  I was honored to run with them.  They pushed me mentally, because to me, all of them are serious, experienced runners. It was no secret that I was the "dead weight" but that term only existed in my mind. Everyone gave everyone else so much support it was truly the best. What moved me yesterday?  They did! 

I was able to share this experience with James and my sister-in-law, Jen.  Watching them complete their legs was pretty cool and inspirational.  I was so proud for both of them. Jen had a huge hill to endure and she kicked it's butt even while it tried to kick hers. James pushed himself harder than I have ever seen. He was also given some hills and heat that tested his endurance level. Everyone just did AWESOME!

We seriously could not have asked for a better day. Aside from all the race excitement, we were able to enjoy the beautiful sun, scenery and mid 60 degrees under a perfect blue sky.  The Finger Lakes region is absolutely gorgeous. Hills, Vineyards, Wineries lined our route on this caravan adventure.  

Leg #2 is DONE

As I was waiting to begin Leg #2, the excitement and nerves grew.  Everyone who was running this leg had to shuffle on a school bus and be brought to their first checkpoint to wait for their teammate running leg #1. Matt (who had started the race for Chafing The Dream) was one of the last runners to arrive, leaving me about .5 mile behind the closest runner ahead of me. That runner was one of the driving forces that kept me going.  I knew I wasn't going to catch up to her, but I also knew I didn't want to lose her in my vision.  
When I wasn't focused on her, I looked left and was able to see the lake and all the houses that bumped up to it. The sun was still sitting on the water and it was peaceful.  My overall "plan" for this race was to push hard my first two legs (since they were my shortest at 2.7 miles each) so I could coast a little at the end. When I got to the checkpoint and handed off to Alexa, I was blown away with the numbers on my watch!

The beginning of Leg #9 was the toughest point of the day for me for some reason. After running my first leg, my left foot really started to bother me. Stupid PF! I took some Advil and massaged the heck out so I could avoid as much pain as possible. The dull ache still remained while I stood there, waiting for Matt to come hand off that bracelet at the checkpoint. The plan of "pushing myself hard" so I could get another great leg pace weighed on my mind, along with other things I really had no business thinking about at that moment. My husband, my rock, could see that from across the street and came to join me as we waited for Matt together. He gave me the words I needed to hear and calmed me while a few tears fell down my face to release the tension I was holding up inside. I'll always remember that. As soon as Matt came to greet me, I was off.

The sun was higher in the sky and that lake still stood to the left in all its' beauty! When I heard those cowbells and team cheering out the window as they drove to where I'd meet them next, it was really motivating. At the end of my route I turned into Lakewood Winery, ran through the front part of their vineyards and passed on the torch to Alexa once again!

Leg #9 is DONE!

I finished only 10 seconds slower than the first leg and was still very proud of those numbers on the watch.. it's still faster than I've been currently running in training!

As the end of the day was approaching and our team was nearing their last leg, fatigue and tiredness was clearly evident. I tried to eat and hydrate enough because my last leg had the most distance.  Not only was it my longest, I started in a golf course, ran part of it on a trail, passed an insane asylum and even a prison. The rumor of this leg was "not to get lost" oh and you had to pass a snow plow and jump over logs and boulders as well.  Also,  I had to wear a reflector vest because "God forbid IF there was a prison break" they would need that vest to distinguish that I was not "a prisoner on the run that they would have to send the dogs after".  True Story!!  With all these different things to think about, for some reason I wasn't the least bit concerned. Funny, huh? All I knew was that it was my last leg and I'd be done for the day once I handed that slap bracelet to Alexa the final time. No tears, only excitement!

Leg #16 really took it's toll on me. As I was going downhill on this grassy trail, filled with rocks, divots and trees, I kept my mind focused on footing. I had a lot of momentum (~11:35 min pace).  With my downhill speed and my brain working pretty hard to "not fall" or "hurt my foot in the beginning of this leg", I got a bit lightheaded at the bottom.  My vision got a bit wonky and I needed to stop, walk and hydrate.  Luckily I had my handheld water bottle filled with Scratch Labs (sports drink with electrolytes) that helped bring my focus back. 

Leg #16 is DONE!

Man, was this leg the prettiest of them all.  I was SO close to the lake on this route, and the scenery reminded of the River at the 1000 Islands.  I had a few hills and gravel roads and saw many runners on this route.  At one point, I was about to pass (aka "kill") this woman on our first incline.  She looked really out of sorts and that "Mentor" inside of me came out. It was like I took everything Pina says to me and applied it to her.  "C'mon girl, we'll do this together.  You've got this".  I told her to just "bounce with me up this hill" and to stay strong.  

It felt so nice helping out someone who I could completely relate to.  When we got to the top, she had a tear in her eye and I said.. "no crying, only I cry".  She smiled and yelled "thank you" as I slowly passed her to continue on my way.  It was pretty cool and that helped me the next two miles until I got to that last checkpoint. Sure, I was a bit slower than I really aimed for, but I was done and so proud of everyone that did this journey with me!

At the end of the race, our Chafing The Dream team met up with Tim (who ran leg, #21) at the "Team Unification Point" . The seven of us crossed that finish line together. It was awesome, and I'll always remember that.  7 runners, (some that I had just met earlier that morning) shared an experience that could never truly be repeated... that is, until next year! Sign me up Richard, I'm all in!!! ( Oh, and I think I'll volunteer for Leg #4 so I can tackle that huge hill.  It's easy to say a year away, right?)