Lucky #13

Wow, has it been a crazy two weeks!! 

Summer has begun which means so have the beautiful warm days reaching into the 80's; mosquito's at dusk; cold drinks in your hand; camp fires and fireworks.... I LOVE IT!

The past two weeks in NoBo have been pretty great too!  I'll admit, my workouts suffered while I was in Pennsylvania last week.  And I was pretty nervous this past Wednesday at our group workout.  I went over to the Westside to run with my fellow 13's.  {Oh yeah... I'm officially in the 13:00 pace group!  Kinda exciting!!!}  

So, back to Wednesday.  Yep, the workout was pretty challenging... but it was the kick in the butt that I needed to have... and grateful it came early in the NoBo session.  HOMEWORK is important.  I had to learn it last session in 5K and hopefully I can stay focused now moving on.
This morning when I completed homework with Pina, 2.5 miles went by way faster and easier than 2.0 miles on Friday.  Crazy!  I don't understand it at times, but I know keeping up with the Homework and HYDRATION will be the 2 H's I will hold near to my heart these next two months ahead!
The heat and I have this love/hate relationship.  I love that Rochester is finally being rewarded from the disgusting winter we just had... but I'd like to 'call off the reward' for only just an hour as I put on my sneakers'.
Running in the morning has really helped.  Pina is still excited to meet me at the end of my driveway so we can hammer out a run by 7am!  I am so happy we've been able to get into a good routine! 

Saturday's workout at Mendon Ponds was pretty good.  We've now advanced to running 2.5 miles and walking 1/4 mile before and after.  I really like having PACE groups and a leader too.  It's that constant visual aspect of  controlling your speed without always looking down at your watch. 

Each pace leader has been upbeat and has had great stories to share during our run.  On Wednesday, Dawn talked about how we were running so we could eat cake.  On Saturday, Jessica's singing and her positive attitude helped us the entire way, even up the hard hills! An "uppertunity" she'd say!  And opportunity to become STRONGER as we suffered through 10 seconds of pain!

What moves me today? Pace leaders or Pacers... whatever the technical term is.
I consider these pace leaders as my "mini finish line".  Towards the end of the workout, they push me to catch up and stay parallel with them so we can finish together. Even if I have to sprint, (like I did today with Pina at our morning workout) I'm there next to them and I know I'll be done soon.
Happy Monday, Cheers to a great week!

You're not in 5K anymore

Last night was our first NoBo group workout with our pace group. The goal was to walk 1/2 mile. Run 2 miles.  Walk 1/2 mile. It was 70 something degrees, the sun was shining and there was a slight brezze.

These conditions were greatly appreciated during the steep inclines around the pretty residential homes near Cobbs Hill. And then there was the infamous hill up to the Reservoir. I have wanted to go to the hill workouts on Tuesday nights for a while now. And last night I sure got a preview!! YOWZERS!

This running workout was completely different. And the feeling of Change was staring me in the face.  "You're not in 5K training-land anymore, Divina!" New obstacles are on the horizon, and HILLS are on the list.

It's a whole new ballgame now.  I feel like I'm some freshmen graduate student who is starting her Sophomore year. I know how to run and now it's time to learn more tips and face new challenges!

What moves me today?  Currently, a 2004 Honda CRV as we start a family vacation camping in PA.

What really moves me? Running in a new place while completing 2.0 NoBo Homework. Heck, I havent ran in Pennsylvania yet, Let's give it a try!

NoBo 2.0, Here I GO!

No Boundaries 2.0 started this past weekend and there was excitement in the air! It was great seeing familiar faces and new friends that I had made last session.  I felt so different on Saturday compared to the feelings of fear and anxiousness I had when I began this journey on February 1st. Granted, it was because I never thought I would take on an adventure to learn how to run. And now I have the desire to see how far I can go!  I'm so excited to be part of this again!

The first thing we did was something called a time trial. They had us run two miles and recorded our time. This directly affects what pace group we will be placed in as we proceed with our group workouts. The one main rule while we're ran this was, NO TALKING!! The coaches and mentors wanted us to work hard so we could figure what our true pace time  in a race setting.
I really enjoyed it. It allowed me to become lost in my thoughts and in my own state of mind. I was able to think of the goals I have during No Boundaries this summer. I was excited when I finished and saw that my time was faster than my normal workouts have been. I guess I never realized how much energy talking uses. Crazy!  

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Today was day one of homework. And in true fashion, Pina was there.  I couldn't believe she agreed to meet me at my house at 6am to run 2 miles and walk before and afterwards. It really meant a lot to me. I know she's doing these workouts for herself too, but I was really touched that she came and for her support! It was a beautiful morning and it felt great to be able to start today this way!

Before we started to run, I asked Pina if we could continue the "no talking" rule while we ran. She didn't mind at all, and it was a hit! At the end of the workout, the numbers on our watch said it all!

It was such a cool feeling, running in silence next to someone that has helped me grow so much. Up until now we would have conversations to pass the time to get us to our next mile.  But today was different.  We were both recognizing how much we've gained, and our silent running bodies did the work while we could just reflect.  We've stepped up to a new level and now, at least for me, I'm starting fresh with this new challenge.  No Boundaries, 2.0!

Today, I was able to show Pina what I do while I'm on my own. My breathing was under control the entire time and I was happy I could do that. Normally while I'm talking to her and running I strain to maintain it at times. We were about 2 minutes per mile faster than we have ever been when we finished. We were in the groove and it felt awesome!

What moves me today? THIS WORKOUT.  I learned so much and felt so comfortable within my new "running self".  I'm excited for more workouts where I focus less on talking and more about what is happening inside.

Happy Monday!

5 MILES.. Whoa Baby!

Today I did something I NEVER thought I'd ever be able to... I ran 5 miles.  It's crazy to think about it, really, and I'm just so amazed at how running is NOT something I hate anymore.  I actually felt like I was in control the entire time. "I got this".  And I did.. I really had it!

After about a mile and a half I got into the "groove" as Pina explained.  A "groove" that was comfortable allowing my mind to realize that I could do the same motion for as long as I needed to... and not worry about a thing.  At times I needed to check in with my breathing, but I know that will never go away, and I'm okay with that!

I am so excited to be able to have gone this far.  I got to where I wanted to go during the break between No Boundaries Spring and No Boundaries Summer.  My next adventure starts up next week, and I can't wait for that new journey to begin.

I welcome this milestone with a new challenge.  The challenge of being held accountable with the number on the scale.  In the past, my weight loss worked when I weighed myself in front of somebody. Each week, no excuses.  I brought my scale to Paychex when I worked there, and stepped on it in front of my best friend every Wednesday morning before we got our coffee.  Today, I did the same thing... instead I brought the scale to our running location and gracefully stepped on it in front of Pina. {heck, if she could push me to run 5 miles, and all the training that lead up to it... I think she could push me to shed a few pounds as well... right?}

So, here's to a new beginning.  Or, should I say a new chapter to start!  I had written before about that finish line, and when I crossed it after my first 5K race.  The feelings of excitement, fear and determination as I tackled what was next!  I need to tap back into those emotions that will help me push through the times I want to give up.

What moves me today?  The excitement of summer, and all the amazing numbers that will come my way.. in all areas of life.  They will take work to achieve, but I'm ready!

4.5 Miles

It was another beautiful morning, and the plan was to run 4.5 miles so I could stay on track with my schedule.  Last week was a tough week, and I found myself more occupied with housework, a purple cast on my daughter's left arm, busy evenings and a crazy calendar schedule. I was bummed I wasn't able to cross train at the gym, for I really missed my Pilates classes! I'm counting down the hours till Tuesday morning where I can reconnect with my pretty green Pilates mat, along with my core, abs, legs...... you get the drift!

Today I broke a record as I slowly increase my distance. 
4.5 miles in an hour and two minutes. Whoo hoo!

It was a great run with a nice friend.  We had a great conversation and it just carried us away as we took in the beautiful canal.  I really can't believe how the time flew.

What moves me today? The excitement to increase my distance to a solid 5 miles.  I know this will take sticking to the training I have for the next two weeks so I can reach that goal...and I'm all IN!

Cheers to a great week ahead!

Corporate Challenge

Last night was the Corporate Challenge. It's one of the biggest races that Rochester has and this year about 11,000 runners and walkers participated.  It was really cool seeing all of the local and national businesses there with their colorful race shirts.

I was really lucky to represent SPX, my husband's company in the race.  It was a beautiful night, perfect for running.  Not too hot, and cloudy.  Plus, the kids were home with Grandma and Grandpa, giving my husband and I some time to just be together, before and after the race.

Another awesome part of the evening was that Pina was there too. She's amazing and I'm so happy that I was able to run the entire race with her.

How as the race?  IT WAS TOUGH.  It was 3.5 miles long and I felt real confident leading up to it.  "I just ran 4 miles on Saturday and it was a great time.  3.5, I got this!!"

Well, that was not really the case. Since 11,000 other runners were there, squeezed into a small space outside RIT's campus...when it was time to start, PACE was thrown out the window.  I basically just ran, so I wouldn't get run over.  Forget starting slow at a nice speed.  At one point I looked at my watch and saw we were running at a 10:15 mile pace, and I panicked.  I wasn't even at the half mile point and already my nerves got the best of me.  Damn Watch!  I immediately started the mental battle in my head. At that point we approached an incline and I had that to overcome.

By the time we got to the 1st Mile check point, I hated life.  I hated that I was so overwhelmed with emotion, anxiety and that my breathing was all over the place.  Pina knew this, and coached me through it... however I just couldn't get it under control.  She is the ultimate role model when it comes to breathing, and I owe her so much for that!!!

"What happens after the 2nd Mile" ...Pina asked as it was in the horizon.  "We become MAGICAL", I exclaimed.  I needed that, even if I didn't believe my own words.

It was a struggle the entire way for me.  "Magical" never showed up, even when the crowds of runners diminished and I was in a comfortable space.  There were walkers to pass and faster runners still whipping by me. I couldn't stop looking down at my wrist to check my pace or distance.  Damn Watch.  I felt confused at times, and disconnected with my own comfortable running body that I've grown into. I blame that stupid first mile that although was a personal best, started me off on the wrong foot.  I blame my watch and my brain for creating all these negative thoughts that distracted me from all the positives that were going on right there in front of me!  Enough with all the doom and gloom...

Let's go there... the amazing positive moments of the race:

~ It was the first time I saw and heard my husband cheer for me as I approached the finish line.  Honestly, that's what I thought about as I huffed and puffed the whole way through.

~ My average pace was an incredible 12:53 min/mile. SO CRAZY!

~ I learned a valuable lesson, and overcame the challenge by running the entire time, even when I just wanted to stop!  I was put into a situation and the training I've done so far helped me, which I'm just grateful for!!

~ Lastly, but certainly not least, I was able to be there with such a positive person in my life, who pushed me to the end.  She's AMAZING, and I'm just so lucky for everything she's shown me.  The encouragement she's gives at just the right point when I'm about to breakdown out weighs anything I've ever experienced. The fact that she kept putting me first, when I told her to run ahead, makes me hold back tears.  For this is what true compassion and friendship is all about.  "Learning to RUN" didn't just give me the ability to run!

No Boundaries starts in 15 days, and I'm so much farther than where I was when it ended a month ago. Pina and I both are!!  I'm so proud of her.

I can't wait to gain more training and experience, to ultimately give back as a future mentor.  I have some big shoes to mimic, and I can't wait for that opportunity!

River Runner

Oh, the River. Or should I say the Islands. I could even say Cape Vincent, Lazy Acres or Millens Bay. All mean the same thing. It's the place we dread leaving on Labor Day, the place we dream about on cold winter days, and the place we can't wait to start each summer at.

My mother-in-law and father-in-law have been sharing this special place with us for 8 years. We are so lucky to have this getaway place to enjoy boat rides, family and fun! I love the memories my kids have been able to make and it warms my heart knowing they have so many years ahead to create many more.

We are here to celebrate Memorial Day as well as our first trip up, down, over... whatever direction it really is. It's the start of our summer however we look at it!..And, its pretty exciting!

Today I woke up with the plan to run 4 miles. The route I was going to take is a route my mother in law and I always walk. We've spent many hours walking this two mile loop... talking, pushing the kids in strollers, and enjoying the view. When I woke up today, I was pretty excited to be able to RUN it for the first time!

If you would have asked me last year, if I had ever dream about running this loop, let alone twice, I would have laughed so hard. I thought about that during today's trek.

Ready.  Set.  Run.

It was really foggy this morning. I was happy that I had my reflector strap so it could provide some sort of protection during the gloom and mist that filled the air.  This was a new condition for me to run in. Immediately there was a film of moisture all over my body. I wasn't hot nor cold. It was kind of weird but added to my adventure.

The fog made the long road ahead of me eerie and mystical in a way. I was able to only see a few feet in front of me. Mailboxes we're hidden until the few seconds before I passed them. I paid close attention to the sound of the birds and trucks and cars along the main road. Sometimes it was a bit intimidating when I couldn't see the vehicles passing and only able to hear them.

When I approached the hill that I ultimately had to do twice for the first time around, I tapped in to one of my favorite Mentors words of advice. "Small steps. Don't rush". After that was over, I had a small gradual incline for a little ways and then it turned flat. After the first complete loop I was immediately more motivated and assured myself I could do it again.

Around mile 3, I passed another runner. She looked younger, was slimmer and had a very warm smile. We said "Good Morning" and went on our way. At that moment, a smile came across my face. I thought... "Hey, I'm just like her. A runner!!"

For years I have seen so many people run along that road while I walked past them. That small interaction with a fellow runner, where it may seem so insignificant to some, made me again remember that I too am just like her! I don't know when it will become easier to realize that.

When I was close to my finish, I ended up seeing that same girl again. She was at that point walking, and I had less than a quarter mile to go. We smiled at each other and I took that as if we both were saying "Great job!" I know, I know.. that's corny.

When I heard that last and final beep to alert me my run was done, I couldn't believe my eyes at my lap time.  My last mile was the fastest mile I ever ran. 12:16. Not only that, I shave off  a few minutes  from last week's 4 mile run.

What an amazing morning, in one of my favorite places, doing something I'm becoming to love. I'm looking forward to doing it again tomorrow. Now, all I have to do is coordinate my morning run with my husband's so we can be with the kids..