I didnt get my pushups in yesterday. I kind of just kept putting it off to do later. Well later just didnt occur. So I ended up doing them tonight. I was supposed to run today too but too many errands took up the bulk and energy of the day. So thats delayed until tommorrow!
Good thing its supposed to be nice tommorrow too. Just for the record, I really really really dislike pushups. Man, Im struggling just to do the minumum. I guess the real point though is Im down there on the ground doing them anyway.
Its neat to see our children follow suit. You know if Momma is going to be doing this crazy thing, so will they. So after I did mine,my 11 yr old, my 8 yr old, my 5 yr old, my 4 yr old and my 2 yr old were all down on the ground trying to do pushups. We truly do lead the way in terms of how to life our life! Its hard somtimes to put the computer down and get out there and exercise.
I really did want to run today. Even got up at 6 am to do it but the cold dissuaded me. When Mr. F asked me if I wanted to delay til later -- I responded with a definite yes. It didnt help that I didnt get enough sleep either.
So I need to work on making a distinct time to do things. Things wont change overnight. On a positive note, Im down 1.5 pounds -- woot! Im very excited to be nearly the next decade down of weight lose.
Keep on running,
Mrs. F
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Friday, November 20, 2009
Weight Check - Friday November 20
Friday weight check (week 12)
FatManRunning
Last Friday: 279.4 lbs.
Today: 279.9 lbs.
Gain/Loss: +.5 lbs.
Goal: 210.0 lbs.
Cumulative: 20.5 lbs.
Pounds to lose: 69.5
Comment: I hate stress!
Mrs. F
Last Friday: 173.3 lbs.
Today: 171.8 lbs.
Gain/Loss: -1.5 lbs.
Goal: 150.0 lbs.
Cumulative: 11.0 lbs.
Pounds to lose: 21.8
Comment: I guess last week was more water weight. I was pleased with todays loss(secretly hoped for higher) but 1.5 is not too shabby!!! I am starting to get excited to get below the 170 mark and the less than 20 to lose mark!!!
FatManRunning
Last Friday: 279.4 lbs.
Today: 279.9 lbs.
Gain/Loss: +.5 lbs.
Goal: 210.0 lbs.
Cumulative: 20.5 lbs.
Pounds to lose: 69.5
Comment: I hate stress!
Mrs. F
Last Friday: 173.3 lbs.
Today: 171.8 lbs.
Gain/Loss: -1.5 lbs.
Goal: 150.0 lbs.
Cumulative: 11.0 lbs.
Pounds to lose: 21.8
Comment: I guess last week was more water weight. I was pleased with todays loss(secretly hoped for higher) but 1.5 is not too shabby!!! I am starting to get excited to get below the 170 mark and the less than 20 to lose mark!!!
Note to self: read things through (and, a little extra weight)
Well, I was up early enough today to fit in my pushups before getting ready for work. I had been under the impression that the One Hundred Pushups challege would be similar to the Couch-to-5k program, so I expected that I'd need to complete the same number of reps today as I did on Wednesday. I was wrong! I need to remember to read things through before I get into them!
Today's workout was as follows (with a minute of rest between each set): 6, 8, 6, 6, min 7.
I completed the workout, but was only able to finish the minimum required in the final set. Of course, it did not help that our youngest girl was up and she decided to try to sit on my head and shoulders during that final set! That was a little extra weight I wasn't intended to lift. The ironic thing, however, is that her current weight just about matches what I've already lost (she's about 20 lbs., and I've lost 21 lbs.). I don't think I would have been able to start on level two before I started Couch-to-5k and lost the weight.
I could definately feel it in my arms and pectorals last night, so I wasn't sure how it was going to go. In reality, my first workout was only about a day and six hours earlier, rather than a dull two days prior, because my first workout was just before midnight on Wednesday. I want to do these regularly in the morning. I'll complete the third day for Week One on Sunday, and then will be on Tuesday-Thursday-Saturday for next week. On the following week, I'll switch to M-W-F, so I'll have T-R-Sa free for One Hour Runner with Mrs. F. I'm not quite sure what I'll do for running next week, when the days coincide. I might just do the runs anyway, since we'll likely run in the afternoons.
I hope to pick up running on Saturday morning with Mrs. F. The first three weeks of One Hour Runner are just 30 minute runs, so I know I can handle that. Times don't increase until Week Four, so we know that some Couch-to-5k graduates jump in there. We decided that we'll take the extra weeks to make sure we are giving our joints, connective tissues, and muscles time to adjust to running. Though, as you've probably noticed, I've not run for a week, since our first 5k. It's not that I've even been sore or injured. I've just been way too busy with my schoolwork (I'm now behind).
I've told the other Troop leaders (I'm Scoutmaster in a brand new Scout Troop that includes three of our sons) that I need someone else to take over program planning. I just don't have the time or ability to do that right now. I already stepped down from leading worship at church, but that's due to my internal struggles more than time. Work is a killer lately. Being the only IT guy, it falls on me to keep everything running, and we've had a number of hot issues lately. Thankfully, it's not as crazy as it was a year ago, when I worked the equivalent of extra weeks of work each in November and December.
I want to put a shout out to everyone at Active.com, especially in the 200+ lb. runners threads in the Newbie Cafe. I've not been able to post as much lately, but I am reading. Thanks for all of the words of encouragement. Yes, I know I need to get out and get running. Yes, I know my plate seems over-full, but I cannot comprehend of anything I can cut (ditching the Scout Troop would cause it to fold, because we are at minimum levels already). I have too much invested in my education to give that up, especially when I have only three or four classes (beyond the current one) yet to finish for my M.A. One of the downsides of taking a job close to home is that I now have less than half the vacation time I once had. How I so wish I could just take a few days off, catch up on my homework, and get back into a "normal" groove again!
I'll make it through. I always do. I'm going to try to negotiate the afternoon off for having put in time over the weekend last week and late work this week. That, at least, would help.
Blah, blah, blah...I could go on and on and on. Maybe one day I'll be able to set aside time for writing--not just this blog, but the fiction I love to write. Well, until then, I'll just keep doing what I can.
Today's workout was as follows (with a minute of rest between each set): 6, 8, 6, 6, min 7.
I completed the workout, but was only able to finish the minimum required in the final set. Of course, it did not help that our youngest girl was up and she decided to try to sit on my head and shoulders during that final set! That was a little extra weight I wasn't intended to lift. The ironic thing, however, is that her current weight just about matches what I've already lost (she's about 20 lbs., and I've lost 21 lbs.). I don't think I would have been able to start on level two before I started Couch-to-5k and lost the weight.
I could definately feel it in my arms and pectorals last night, so I wasn't sure how it was going to go. In reality, my first workout was only about a day and six hours earlier, rather than a dull two days prior, because my first workout was just before midnight on Wednesday. I want to do these regularly in the morning. I'll complete the third day for Week One on Sunday, and then will be on Tuesday-Thursday-Saturday for next week. On the following week, I'll switch to M-W-F, so I'll have T-R-Sa free for One Hour Runner with Mrs. F. I'm not quite sure what I'll do for running next week, when the days coincide. I might just do the runs anyway, since we'll likely run in the afternoons.
I hope to pick up running on Saturday morning with Mrs. F. The first three weeks of One Hour Runner are just 30 minute runs, so I know I can handle that. Times don't increase until Week Four, so we know that some Couch-to-5k graduates jump in there. We decided that we'll take the extra weeks to make sure we are giving our joints, connective tissues, and muscles time to adjust to running. Though, as you've probably noticed, I've not run for a week, since our first 5k. It's not that I've even been sore or injured. I've just been way too busy with my schoolwork (I'm now behind).
I've told the other Troop leaders (I'm Scoutmaster in a brand new Scout Troop that includes three of our sons) that I need someone else to take over program planning. I just don't have the time or ability to do that right now. I already stepped down from leading worship at church, but that's due to my internal struggles more than time. Work is a killer lately. Being the only IT guy, it falls on me to keep everything running, and we've had a number of hot issues lately. Thankfully, it's not as crazy as it was a year ago, when I worked the equivalent of extra weeks of work each in November and December.
I want to put a shout out to everyone at Active.com, especially in the 200+ lb. runners threads in the Newbie Cafe. I've not been able to post as much lately, but I am reading. Thanks for all of the words of encouragement. Yes, I know I need to get out and get running. Yes, I know my plate seems over-full, but I cannot comprehend of anything I can cut (ditching the Scout Troop would cause it to fold, because we are at minimum levels already). I have too much invested in my education to give that up, especially when I have only three or four classes (beyond the current one) yet to finish for my M.A. One of the downsides of taking a job close to home is that I now have less than half the vacation time I once had. How I so wish I could just take a few days off, catch up on my homework, and get back into a "normal" groove again!
I'll make it through. I always do. I'm going to try to negotiate the afternoon off for having put in time over the weekend last week and late work this week. That, at least, would help.
Blah, blah, blah...I could go on and on and on. Maybe one day I'll be able to set aside time for writing--not just this blog, but the fiction I love to write. Well, until then, I'll just keep doing what I can.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
One hour runner - Day 2 - Mrs. F
First of all, it was a good run. I didnt have any lingering pain so I was able to push myself some.
So I worked hard but it was a good run! I ran about 2.7 (estimated) miles in 32 minutes today. The first mile was wicked fast for me -- did that in 10:30!!! Then slowed it down on the next segment, got my breathing back under control. I sped up and slowed down several times during the run. I especially sped up during the 2nd half of each segment. I did the last mile in 12 minutes. Not too shabby.
Im very happy to report that no shin splints occurred during todays run. Whew! I was worried that would be a lingering problem. The lack of pain definitely helped me have a better run over all. My knees were a bit twingey but I think its still adjusting to be running.
Mr. F wasnt able to get out this evening -- hopefully on Saturday -- he will be able to get out for a run.
It really felt good to run off some life stresses. And to combat the food intake I have had lately as well. I think thats part of what I like about running, it allows me to consume more calories on the days I run. I like chocolate! There I admit it :) So I can continue my weight loss journey with a few indulges here or there. And it does feel good after the hard work of a run!
Keep on running
MRs. F
So I worked hard but it was a good run! I ran about 2.7 (estimated) miles in 32 minutes today. The first mile was wicked fast for me -- did that in 10:30!!! Then slowed it down on the next segment, got my breathing back under control. I sped up and slowed down several times during the run. I especially sped up during the 2nd half of each segment. I did the last mile in 12 minutes. Not too shabby.
Im very happy to report that no shin splints occurred during todays run. Whew! I was worried that would be a lingering problem. The lack of pain definitely helped me have a better run over all. My knees were a bit twingey but I think its still adjusting to be running.
Mr. F wasnt able to get out this evening -- hopefully on Saturday -- he will be able to get out for a run.
It really felt good to run off some life stresses. And to combat the food intake I have had lately as well. I think thats part of what I like about running, it allows me to consume more calories on the days I run. I like chocolate! There I admit it :) So I can continue my weight loss journey with a few indulges here or there. And it does feel good after the hard work of a run!
Keep on running
MRs. F
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
100 Pushups - Day 1
I did not get out for a run yesterday, but I did remember to get my pushups in today. I started at Level 2 of the program, since I completed six (6) pushups during my pre-test. That meant today's workout looked like this:
6 pushups
(1 minute rest)
6 pushups
(1 minute rest)
4 pushups
(1 minute rest)
4 pushups
(1 minute rest)
Max pushups: 6
That final "Max pushups" is the final set. Each day, you go through the prescribed set and then push through one last set where you do as many as you can. Each day's final set has a listed minimum, so you have to do at least that many in the final set. For me, today, that minimum was five (5), but I managed six (6).
I'm trying to do regular pushups, but am a little awkward on my flat palms. I had dual carpal tunnel realeases about a year ago, and my body is still cautious about putting pressure on my wrists and palms. It turned out okay, but I think I had my hands a bit too far foarward. Mrs. F was already retired for the night, so I didn't have anyone to watch my form. I'll keep it in mind for Wednesday. If I need to change things a bit, I can likely complete mine on my fists.
6 pushups
(1 minute rest)
6 pushups
(1 minute rest)
4 pushups
(1 minute rest)
4 pushups
(1 minute rest)
Max pushups: 6
That final "Max pushups" is the final set. Each day, you go through the prescribed set and then push through one last set where you do as many as you can. Each day's final set has a listed minimum, so you have to do at least that many in the final set. For me, today, that minimum was five (5), but I managed six (6).
I'm trying to do regular pushups, but am a little awkward on my flat palms. I had dual carpal tunnel realeases about a year ago, and my body is still cautious about putting pressure on my wrists and palms. It turned out okay, but I think I had my hands a bit too far foarward. Mrs. F was already retired for the night, so I didn't have anyone to watch my form. I'll keep it in mind for Wednesday. If I need to change things a bit, I can likely complete mine on my fists.
One hundred Pushups - Week 1,Day 1 - Mrs. F
I have a lot of emotional crap going on right now. I just want to eat my way thru a truffle bag. In fact, Im part way thru that goal... sigh.
Given everything thats going on, I wasnt going to do the pushups. I really hate pushups. I think I hate them more than I hated running! I was going to put it off and just not do it.
Im not sure what changed but as I was sitting here browsing the net,checking our blog for the billionth time, I saw the log. And I got up and just did it. My arms hurt!!!!
Im positive my form sucks but I guess IM trying at least. I only managed 2 on the intial test, so Im in column one. So it wasnt as horrible as it could be, my sets were 2 and 3.
Im looking forward to running tommorrow. It seems easier than pushups at this point. That makes me giggle a little :)
Mr. F is bogged down with graduate work and tech issues at his day job as well. So Im not sure when things will ease up for him, hopefully soon.
Keep on running
Mrs. F
Given everything thats going on, I wasnt going to do the pushups. I really hate pushups. I think I hate them more than I hated running! I was going to put it off and just not do it.
Im not sure what changed but as I was sitting here browsing the net,checking our blog for the billionth time, I saw the log. And I got up and just did it. My arms hurt!!!!
Im positive my form sucks but I guess IM trying at least. I only managed 2 on the intial test, so Im in column one. So it wasnt as horrible as it could be, my sets were 2 and 3.
Im looking forward to running tommorrow. It seems easier than pushups at this point. That makes me giggle a little :)
Mr. F is bogged down with graduate work and tech issues at his day job as well. So Im not sure when things will ease up for him, hopefully soon.
Keep on running
Mrs. F
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
One hour runner - Week 1 - Mrs. F
Mr. F graciously agreed to run the bank errand (Thanks honey) so I was still able to get a workout in tonight.
It was strange but fun asking my eldest son to babysit so I could go for a run. He of course, agreed :) Anything to have his dear mother running! He even let me borrow his watch.
This was the first workout of one hour runner -- all three runs this week are 30 minutes apiece. I got my ducks in a row and set off to our trail. I was in a bit of a hurry, so my warm up walk was fast. That may have contributed to the soreness I developed later.
My first mile was 11:45, not too shabby. I wasnt trying for any speed records today. At one point,my left shin was bugging me, so I slowed it down even farther. That seemed to help some. It took me 33 minutes to do 2.5 miles. I think my last mile back was 13 minutes. I was sore and it was getting dark too.
It really did feel good afterwords. The run itself wasnt easy and I didnt really find my stride. I am glad though I got back out there.
Keep on running,
Mrs. F
It was strange but fun asking my eldest son to babysit so I could go for a run. He of course, agreed :) Anything to have his dear mother running! He even let me borrow his watch.
This was the first workout of one hour runner -- all three runs this week are 30 minutes apiece. I got my ducks in a row and set off to our trail. I was in a bit of a hurry, so my warm up walk was fast. That may have contributed to the soreness I developed later.
My first mile was 11:45, not too shabby. I wasnt trying for any speed records today. At one point,my left shin was bugging me, so I slowed it down even farther. That seemed to help some. It took me 33 minutes to do 2.5 miles. I think my last mile back was 13 minutes. I was sore and it was getting dark too.
It really did feel good afterwords. The run itself wasnt easy and I didnt really find my stride. I am glad though I got back out there.
Keep on running,
Mrs. F
Its getting tougher-- Mrs. F
Its getting tougher to get the workouts in. We have come so far, I dont want to give up the progress, so that propels me on. Eventually we hope to purchase a treadmill, which will give us a little more freedom in when we can exercise. I still think we will try to do whatever runs we can outside but if time pressures mount, as they are today, then we have options.
I need to head into walmart today(30 minutes away) with the littles in tow in order to get some tights for my eldest daughter. We also need to do another errand and get to the bank as well. It just makes everything feel more stressed, knowing that these things must be done today.
Both Mr. F and I did our pushup intial test this morning. I managed a measly 2 and he managed 6. So we will start that tommorrow and get back to our regular pushup schedule(MWF) next week. Today will be the start of one hour runner. Thankfully its only a 30 minute run (who knew 12 weeks ago, that I would be able to say that woot!).
Keep on running
Mrs. F
I need to head into walmart today(30 minutes away) with the littles in tow in order to get some tights for my eldest daughter. We also need to do another errand and get to the bank as well. It just makes everything feel more stressed, knowing that these things must be done today.
Both Mr. F and I did our pushup intial test this morning. I managed a measly 2 and he managed 6. So we will start that tommorrow and get back to our regular pushup schedule(MWF) next week. Today will be the start of one hour runner. Thankfully its only a 30 minute run (who knew 12 weeks ago, that I would be able to say that woot!).
Keep on running
Mrs. F
Monday, November 16, 2009
Here are my wife, eldest son (J), and our friend Amy before the race. When 
J found out Mrs. F was racing, I acted surprised, too, and he bought it (even though I was dressed to run, too). I had my vest on and it was zipped up over the number, so that's the only thing that kept him from finding me out, too. In fact, he handed me his warm-ups so I could put them away while he headed to the finish line.
Thanks to Amy's dh, Nathan, for taking this pic and passing it on.
Mrs. F and I are agreed upon signing up for the 5k held just a few miles from home on Thanksgiving Day. We're looking forward to it!
Not only was I up with homework last night, but I had to put in three or four hours on an office project. In addition, we had to spend some time with our eldest daughter, who had a gentleman caller the night before who wanted permission to begin courtship. While she still is a little young, the idea behind courtship (vs. dating) is that he spend time with our daughter in the context of our family so that we may all get to know each other. We discussed my overall assessment, and agreed that this may proceed (cautiously). She's aware of the concerns I have, and we trust that the process will help clarify our understanding in those areas over the next few months.
J found out Mrs. F was racing, I acted surprised, too, and he bought it (even though I was dressed to run, too). I had my vest on and it was zipped up over the number, so that's the only thing that kept him from finding me out, too. In fact, he handed me his warm-ups so I could put them away while he headed to the finish line.Thanks to Amy's dh, Nathan, for taking this pic and passing it on.
Mrs. F and I are agreed upon signing up for the 5k held just a few miles from home on Thanksgiving Day. We're looking forward to it!
Not only was I up with homework last night, but I had to put in three or four hours on an office project. In addition, we had to spend some time with our eldest daughter, who had a gentleman caller the night before who wanted permission to begin courtship. While she still is a little young, the idea behind courtship (vs. dating) is that he spend time with our daughter in the context of our family so that we may all get to know each other. We discussed my overall assessment, and agreed that this may proceed (cautiously). She's aware of the concerns I have, and we trust that the process will help clarify our understanding in those areas over the next few months.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Post Race - Mrs. F
Although our real names are revealed now, we've had these monnikers for so long,they are hard to shed!
My legs felt great this morning when I got up but as I walked to church, they were a bit achy. My knees and wrists hurt a bit but I suspect thats related to my lupus rather than post race concerns. My knees did not bother me at all when I ran and I cant pinpoint an acute pain anywhere, its more of a general ache. Thats why I think it may be related to my other joint issues from the lupus.
Im looking forward to running the 5k in the town near us on thanksgiving. I definitely have caught the running bug. Most of our kids either like running or are interested in it, cept for our eldest daughter. Shes not only my carbon copy in looks, she mirrors the same hatred that I had for running pre couch to 5k. I even offered up the dangling carrot - I swallowed my dislike and told her I would agree to read twilight if she would do C25K. She entertained it for a bit and nope, wont bite.
Oh well , I am looking forward to family run/bike/walk times. I figure we can cull together enough different ways of transport and get out there!
I believe the plan is to do one hour runner - t,th,Sat and then do 100 pushups on M,W and F. I know since we did c25k, we could start at week 3. Both Mr. F and I agree, that we want to build up endurance further and plan to start at week 1. So it will be more of 30 minute runs but I feel thats important to get under our belts. Im not concerned so much with speed(although getting faster is good :) but with building endurance and allowing my body time to get used to the impact running puts on it.
Keep on running,
Mrs. F
My legs felt great this morning when I got up but as I walked to church, they were a bit achy. My knees and wrists hurt a bit but I suspect thats related to my lupus rather than post race concerns. My knees did not bother me at all when I ran and I cant pinpoint an acute pain anywhere, its more of a general ache. Thats why I think it may be related to my other joint issues from the lupus.
Im looking forward to running the 5k in the town near us on thanksgiving. I definitely have caught the running bug. Most of our kids either like running or are interested in it, cept for our eldest daughter. Shes not only my carbon copy in looks, she mirrors the same hatred that I had for running pre couch to 5k. I even offered up the dangling carrot - I swallowed my dislike and told her I would agree to read twilight if she would do C25K. She entertained it for a bit and nope, wont bite.
Oh well , I am looking forward to family run/bike/walk times. I figure we can cull together enough different ways of transport and get out there!
I believe the plan is to do one hour runner - t,th,Sat and then do 100 pushups on M,W and F. I know since we did c25k, we could start at week 3. Both Mr. F and I agree, that we want to build up endurance further and plan to start at week 1. So it will be more of 30 minute runs but I feel thats important to get under our belts. Im not concerned so much with speed(although getting faster is good :) but with building endurance and allowing my body time to get used to the impact running puts on it.
Keep on running,
Mrs. F
Post 5k update
Well, I'm glad to report no major aches or pains after running yesterday. Sure, I have a bit of discomfort in my left knee and my right shin was a little sore, but no injuries and no problems moving around. I really can feel it in my glutes and my inner thighs, though.
I've been tied to my books most of the day, and I yet have much to do. Mrs. F and I plan to run on Thanksgiving morning in a new 5k race being organized in the next town. We do plan to start the 100 Pushup challenge, but I need to set aside time for the pre-test. One hour runner is our most likely course of action too. I need to run for now.
I've been tied to my books most of the day, and I yet have much to do. Mrs. F and I plan to run on Thanksgiving morning in a new 5k race being organized in the next town. We do plan to start the 100 Pushup challenge, but I need to set aside time for the pre-test. One hour runner is our most likely course of action too. I need to run for now.
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Chaska Turkey Trot - Completed!
Well, it's official. The secret is out and our race is run! After the race and some recovery time on-site, we took a little road trip to the family's favorite Chinese restaurant in Buffalo, Minnesota. We just got home a little bit ago, and the results are already online.
My name is Andrew, but you know me here as FatManRunning; on Active.com, I go by AFatManRunning. My wife's name is Marie (known here as Mrs. F) b. We live in Winsted, Minnesota, about an hour west of Minneapolis. Today was our first 5k, the Chaska Turkey Trot, in Chaska, Minnesota. I finished below 45 minutes, and was not the final one on the course. Mrs. F also better than she hoped, coming in below even the 38 minute figure I guessed she could make. Some of our friends was there, and they took some pictures and video. We hope to be able to post some soon.
Our surprise came off very well, though we were not able to keep it a complete secret in the moments leading up to the race. When we arrived, our eldest son, who was registered to run, got out of the van right away and headed in to the registration table. As soon as the other nine (9) kids were out of the van, we made our way in. [Yes!, we have 10 kids.] Mrs. F three of our youngest four settled in the childcare room (what a nice service!), but we opted to leave our special needs child with our eldest daughter. She was instrumental to our being able to complete the Couch-to-5k program, as she was the one we got up at 5:30 AM on our training days so that we could fit in our workouts. [As it turns out, she's bummed that we have been running during the afternoons, because she had been using the early wake-ups as opportunities to catch a shower in the morning.] Our youngest girl just turned one, so we needed to have someone on the main floor who could respond to her if she started crying, which she did on more than a few mornings. Thanks, K!
I had prepped before we left, and just work overclothes to hide my running gear. Mrs. F opted to change on-site. So, after we were sure our son was checked in, and Mrs. F had the youngest kids in childcare, we sent the remaining kids out to find a place to park for the race. While she was changing, however, two of our middle boys came back in to complain about their sister (who was now in charge). They approached me as I was going through my running packet, and I could tell that one of them saw my race number. I tersely ordered them outside (likely creating a wonderful little pre-race show for some of the others around me), and went on working to get ready: chip zip-tied to my shoe, and number pinned to my shirt.
When Mrs. F came out, I informed her of our likely discovery. There was nothing we could do about it, so we kept on getting ready. Once we finished, we headed out towards the main entrance, but Mrs. F noticed our eldest son coming into the building and headed our way. We quickly turned around and made our way to one of the sponsors' booths so as to stay out of sight. When seemingly enough time had passed, we again headed for the door.
Everything was going well. We stopped not far from the door as we made some final preparations--hat, gloves, etc. I had just zipped my vest up over my number when our eldest son found us, and saw the number on Mrs. F's windbreaker. He was shocked, but pleased that she was running. I expressed dismay that she would sign up for such a race! After all, hadn't she just complained about how horrible her two minute run was (the one she owed our son due to his great race time). She played along, and he bought it. It didn't strike him funny that I had ditched my warmup pants and was standing there in my tech tights, shorts, running socks, and running shoes, or that my legs were clearly wrapped under the tights. He was too enamored of learning that Mrs. F was running to recognize the signs that were in front of him.
The call came out to head toward the starting line. Since J, our eldest son, now knew about Mrs. F's running, they headed off toward the start together, along with our friend, Amy. I commented that I was a bit cold, and headed off to the van to swap my vest for a windbreaker. It was not too cold out--in the 40s °F--but the wind was quite chilly. When I switched into the windbreaker shell, I moved my number to that shell where it was visible to all. As I approached the starting line, I realized that we would be running the opposite direction I expected, so I tried to stay to the outskirts so that J would not see me. I made my way to the back where Amy and Mrs. F were waiting. They had found themselves a position behind a group of ladies who had also completed the Couch-to-5k program. It felt good to know that we were not alone in our newness to running.
When the gun went off, it took us probably 20 seconds or more to get across the official starting line. The fast ones, including our eldest son, had been in the front of the pack, and they were all jockying for position. I just switched on my mp3 player and started running. It was slow going at first, as I made my way through the pack of runners and walkers, passing some and passed by others. Amy, Mrs. F. and I were bunched close together as our path began its way in front of the school. We noticed our eldest daughter, K, watching the race those in her care. The look on her face when she saw us running there was unforgettable. He mouth was literally drop-jawed, and she seemed stunned. We smiled, waved, and kept running. Amy and Mrs. F began pulling ahead of me. I could feel the adrenaline compelling me to run faster and to keep up with them, but I let rational thought prevail and I settled into my pace. Mrs. F was clearly running faster than her regularly pace (most likely to keep up with Amy), since she pulled ahead much faster than usual. Soon, though I was still surrounded by others, it was just my music and me, and what still seemed to be like a Herculean labor ahead of me.
The line of sight was clear as we came downhill from the starting line. We were going further downhill, turning a corner, and then yet further downhill before starting the first climb. It was no short little rise and was certainly no long, gradual grade. It was a full out hill that went up to a corner, turned and went on further. Thinking about the hill seemed daunting. It started about a quarter mile into the race and seemed to go on forever.
As I made my way up that hill, I remembered the advice Haselsmasher provided us: take baby steps. That advice seemed to help. I also remembered advice some of our sons' cross country teammates had provided: lean into the hill and swing your arms loose and low. I found that advice useful later on. At this early point in the run I had plenty of energy, so my baby step burst served me well.
On the way up the hill, I heard honks and shouts, and I saw some familiar faces and waves. Other family friends, the Andersons, were arriving and noticed me as they drove to the school. They turned around somewhere behind me, driving past moments later with more shouts and waves. I caught up with them at what I thought was the top of the hill, at an intersection. As I turned the corner, I told them that Mrs. F was up ahead. With that, they drove off. The trail continued uphill, and that caught me off guard. I had really been hoping for a level stretch, but this was the second corner where the trail continued uphill. I next saw them some distance later, where they had pulled off the road and were standing there to give some support and take some pictures. It felt really good to have friends who took the time to share the day with us! The trail did level off somewhat, but it continued with a set of rolling rises and falls.
About the time I saw our friends again, I saw the first mile marker. I considered taking a few walking steps, but reminded myself where the one mile mark was on our trail back home, and I opted to continue running. I wasn't "in the zone" or anything like that at this point. The long uphill had been pretty tough, but I was still moving. I passed a few and was passed by others. There was a threesome with which I kept leap-frogging through most of the course. I would pass them running, but they would run past me on the downhills, and I would pass them again on the uphills. All in all, it became a bit annoying, but I could deal with it. After about the third exchange, one of their number paid attention to where I was and started moving to one side. At least then I didn't need to run off the trail, which was, in a few spots, a fairly steep decline.
The second mile marker seemed further than I expected. The ups and downs continued. At one point, the return route came within a few dozen feet of the outbound route. I watched for any sign of Mrs. F--I figured our son was long gone--but I did not see her. I did, however, see a set of gloves and a hat discarded near a sign. They looked quite familiar, and I wondered if they were our son's. It wasn't the only discarded clothign I saw along the route. It seemed that a number of runners opted to discard items that left them too warm, rather than carrying them along for the journey. When I reached the marker, I again considered some walking steps, but now I was feeling fatigue, and I feared that slowing to a walk would keep me from resuming a run. Instead, I opted to slow my pace a bit more, so that I could breath easy and regain a bit of strength.
Around that two-mile mark, the trail started spending more time going down than up. It wound behind a building system (perhaps another school?), and began a serpentine path back to the finish. As I got behind the buildings, with so few immediately around me, I felt the desire to give up and walk. I had developed some discomfort in my knee, and a few landings toward the outside of my right foot caused that shin to become tender. I fought off the desire and ran on. As the downhill segment began to bottom out, those walkers passed me again.
[Given my weight, I was holding back on the downhill segments. I did not want to legthen my stride and use gravity to my advantage. I could already feel the impact through my left knee and even in my left hip. I figured that the extra impact force of me going faster would most likely increase my chance of injury, so I did my best to manage my pace accordingly.]
As the return route brought the outbound route into view, it was clear that there were no runners yet coming up that far behind. Whatever was left of the pack was now behind me somewhere, but I did not let myself look back (verifiably anti-Penguin, I guess). I passed that group of walkers on a short uphill segment. Then, to my surprise, I saw our eldest son. He was running toward me. Yes, those items I saw were indeed his, and he was running the course backwards to find them. He had already heard that I was running from his sister, so he gave me a big high five as our paths crossed.
A few minutes later, after I progressed perhaps another qaurter mile, he caught up to me and started encouraging me, telling me that the end was not far ahead. Then, he sped off toward the finish, leaving me and my music to finish the course much as we began it--surrounded, yet alone. Reaching the bottom of another hollow, and starting my way uphill, I found myself in a bit of agongy. It was not a specific physical pain, but more of a combination of extreme fatigue alongside the aches I was having in my knee and shin. I could not imagine going on, but yet I knew I must be getting close to the finish. I kept watching for third mile marker, or at least something to announce the final 1,000 meters. I had been holding back a bit for a reason--I wanted to be able to finish strong.
Unfortunately, there was no third mile marker. As I rounded a corner of the high school building, I could hear and then see that I was near the finish line. From the corner of my eye I saw someone starting to a sprint, so I called up my reserves and gave it everything I had. I did finish at a full sprint, but the other runner was able to pass me. My final time was 42:13, a 13:36mm pace. Given that the course was more like a roller coaster track than the trail on which I practiced, I was tickled with the time. I was neither last (I finished 423rd out of 445 runners) nor the first on an ambulance. Mission accomplished!
Mrs. F had a good run, too. She finished 389th with a 35:28. Our son finished 22nd overall (5th for the sub-16 age group) with a time of 19:01. The kids were definately surprised, and our eldest son was ecstatic! Oh, and yes, one of our boys had seen the number and figured out that we were running too, but he kept it to himself and didn't spoil the surprise for anyone. Way to go, Z-man!
Mrs. F just passed me our daughter's camera, so I have photos to upload. Our friend Amy's husband apparantly edited some video of the finishes, and they called to tell me that it should be sitting in my inbox. Our friends, Todd and Ruth Anderson, also tooks some pictures, but I don't know if they were using a digital camera. I'll be sure to ask them tomorrow at church.
Anyway, I yet have four chapters of reading to do and I need to start writing another essay, so I really must go. Thanks for all of your support! We'll post photos and more when we can. We'll also formalize our plans (still leaning toward 100 Pushups and One Hour Runner) and post the details here, too.
My name is Andrew, but you know me here as FatManRunning; on Active.com, I go by AFatManRunning. My wife's name is Marie (known here as Mrs. F) b. We live in Winsted, Minnesota, about an hour west of Minneapolis. Today was our first 5k, the Chaska Turkey Trot, in Chaska, Minnesota. I finished below 45 minutes, and was not the final one on the course. Mrs. F also better than she hoped, coming in below even the 38 minute figure I guessed she could make. Some of our friends was there, and they took some pictures and video. We hope to be able to post some soon.
Our surprise came off very well, though we were not able to keep it a complete secret in the moments leading up to the race. When we arrived, our eldest son, who was registered to run, got out of the van right away and headed in to the registration table. As soon as the other nine (9) kids were out of the van, we made our way in. [Yes!, we have 10 kids.] Mrs. F three of our youngest four settled in the childcare room (what a nice service!), but we opted to leave our special needs child with our eldest daughter. She was instrumental to our being able to complete the Couch-to-5k program, as she was the one we got up at 5:30 AM on our training days so that we could fit in our workouts. [As it turns out, she's bummed that we have been running during the afternoons, because she had been using the early wake-ups as opportunities to catch a shower in the morning.] Our youngest girl just turned one, so we needed to have someone on the main floor who could respond to her if she started crying, which she did on more than a few mornings. Thanks, K!
I had prepped before we left, and just work overclothes to hide my running gear. Mrs. F opted to change on-site. So, after we were sure our son was checked in, and Mrs. F had the youngest kids in childcare, we sent the remaining kids out to find a place to park for the race. While she was changing, however, two of our middle boys came back in to complain about their sister (who was now in charge). They approached me as I was going through my running packet, and I could tell that one of them saw my race number. I tersely ordered them outside (likely creating a wonderful little pre-race show for some of the others around me), and went on working to get ready: chip zip-tied to my shoe, and number pinned to my shirt.
When Mrs. F came out, I informed her of our likely discovery. There was nothing we could do about it, so we kept on getting ready. Once we finished, we headed out towards the main entrance, but Mrs. F noticed our eldest son coming into the building and headed our way. We quickly turned around and made our way to one of the sponsors' booths so as to stay out of sight. When seemingly enough time had passed, we again headed for the door.
Everything was going well. We stopped not far from the door as we made some final preparations--hat, gloves, etc. I had just zipped my vest up over my number when our eldest son found us, and saw the number on Mrs. F's windbreaker. He was shocked, but pleased that she was running. I expressed dismay that she would sign up for such a race! After all, hadn't she just complained about how horrible her two minute run was (the one she owed our son due to his great race time). She played along, and he bought it. It didn't strike him funny that I had ditched my warmup pants and was standing there in my tech tights, shorts, running socks, and running shoes, or that my legs were clearly wrapped under the tights. He was too enamored of learning that Mrs. F was running to recognize the signs that were in front of him.
The call came out to head toward the starting line. Since J, our eldest son, now knew about Mrs. F's running, they headed off toward the start together, along with our friend, Amy. I commented that I was a bit cold, and headed off to the van to swap my vest for a windbreaker. It was not too cold out--in the 40s °F--but the wind was quite chilly. When I switched into the windbreaker shell, I moved my number to that shell where it was visible to all. As I approached the starting line, I realized that we would be running the opposite direction I expected, so I tried to stay to the outskirts so that J would not see me. I made my way to the back where Amy and Mrs. F were waiting. They had found themselves a position behind a group of ladies who had also completed the Couch-to-5k program. It felt good to know that we were not alone in our newness to running.
When the gun went off, it took us probably 20 seconds or more to get across the official starting line. The fast ones, including our eldest son, had been in the front of the pack, and they were all jockying for position. I just switched on my mp3 player and started running. It was slow going at first, as I made my way through the pack of runners and walkers, passing some and passed by others. Amy, Mrs. F. and I were bunched close together as our path began its way in front of the school. We noticed our eldest daughter, K, watching the race those in her care. The look on her face when she saw us running there was unforgettable. He mouth was literally drop-jawed, and she seemed stunned. We smiled, waved, and kept running. Amy and Mrs. F began pulling ahead of me. I could feel the adrenaline compelling me to run faster and to keep up with them, but I let rational thought prevail and I settled into my pace. Mrs. F was clearly running faster than her regularly pace (most likely to keep up with Amy), since she pulled ahead much faster than usual. Soon, though I was still surrounded by others, it was just my music and me, and what still seemed to be like a Herculean labor ahead of me.
The line of sight was clear as we came downhill from the starting line. We were going further downhill, turning a corner, and then yet further downhill before starting the first climb. It was no short little rise and was certainly no long, gradual grade. It was a full out hill that went up to a corner, turned and went on further. Thinking about the hill seemed daunting. It started about a quarter mile into the race and seemed to go on forever.
As I made my way up that hill, I remembered the advice Haselsmasher provided us: take baby steps. That advice seemed to help. I also remembered advice some of our sons' cross country teammates had provided: lean into the hill and swing your arms loose and low. I found that advice useful later on. At this early point in the run I had plenty of energy, so my baby step burst served me well.
On the way up the hill, I heard honks and shouts, and I saw some familiar faces and waves. Other family friends, the Andersons, were arriving and noticed me as they drove to the school. They turned around somewhere behind me, driving past moments later with more shouts and waves. I caught up with them at what I thought was the top of the hill, at an intersection. As I turned the corner, I told them that Mrs. F was up ahead. With that, they drove off. The trail continued uphill, and that caught me off guard. I had really been hoping for a level stretch, but this was the second corner where the trail continued uphill. I next saw them some distance later, where they had pulled off the road and were standing there to give some support and take some pictures. It felt really good to have friends who took the time to share the day with us! The trail did level off somewhat, but it continued with a set of rolling rises and falls.
About the time I saw our friends again, I saw the first mile marker. I considered taking a few walking steps, but reminded myself where the one mile mark was on our trail back home, and I opted to continue running. I wasn't "in the zone" or anything like that at this point. The long uphill had been pretty tough, but I was still moving. I passed a few and was passed by others. There was a threesome with which I kept leap-frogging through most of the course. I would pass them running, but they would run past me on the downhills, and I would pass them again on the uphills. All in all, it became a bit annoying, but I could deal with it. After about the third exchange, one of their number paid attention to where I was and started moving to one side. At least then I didn't need to run off the trail, which was, in a few spots, a fairly steep decline.
The second mile marker seemed further than I expected. The ups and downs continued. At one point, the return route came within a few dozen feet of the outbound route. I watched for any sign of Mrs. F--I figured our son was long gone--but I did not see her. I did, however, see a set of gloves and a hat discarded near a sign. They looked quite familiar, and I wondered if they were our son's. It wasn't the only discarded clothign I saw along the route. It seemed that a number of runners opted to discard items that left them too warm, rather than carrying them along for the journey. When I reached the marker, I again considered some walking steps, but now I was feeling fatigue, and I feared that slowing to a walk would keep me from resuming a run. Instead, I opted to slow my pace a bit more, so that I could breath easy and regain a bit of strength.
Around that two-mile mark, the trail started spending more time going down than up. It wound behind a building system (perhaps another school?), and began a serpentine path back to the finish. As I got behind the buildings, with so few immediately around me, I felt the desire to give up and walk. I had developed some discomfort in my knee, and a few landings toward the outside of my right foot caused that shin to become tender. I fought off the desire and ran on. As the downhill segment began to bottom out, those walkers passed me again.
[Given my weight, I was holding back on the downhill segments. I did not want to legthen my stride and use gravity to my advantage. I could already feel the impact through my left knee and even in my left hip. I figured that the extra impact force of me going faster would most likely increase my chance of injury, so I did my best to manage my pace accordingly.]
As the return route brought the outbound route into view, it was clear that there were no runners yet coming up that far behind. Whatever was left of the pack was now behind me somewhere, but I did not let myself look back (verifiably anti-Penguin, I guess). I passed that group of walkers on a short uphill segment. Then, to my surprise, I saw our eldest son. He was running toward me. Yes, those items I saw were indeed his, and he was running the course backwards to find them. He had already heard that I was running from his sister, so he gave me a big high five as our paths crossed.
A few minutes later, after I progressed perhaps another qaurter mile, he caught up to me and started encouraging me, telling me that the end was not far ahead. Then, he sped off toward the finish, leaving me and my music to finish the course much as we began it--surrounded, yet alone. Reaching the bottom of another hollow, and starting my way uphill, I found myself in a bit of agongy. It was not a specific physical pain, but more of a combination of extreme fatigue alongside the aches I was having in my knee and shin. I could not imagine going on, but yet I knew I must be getting close to the finish. I kept watching for third mile marker, or at least something to announce the final 1,000 meters. I had been holding back a bit for a reason--I wanted to be able to finish strong.
Unfortunately, there was no third mile marker. As I rounded a corner of the high school building, I could hear and then see that I was near the finish line. From the corner of my eye I saw someone starting to a sprint, so I called up my reserves and gave it everything I had. I did finish at a full sprint, but the other runner was able to pass me. My final time was 42:13, a 13:36mm pace. Given that the course was more like a roller coaster track than the trail on which I practiced, I was tickled with the time. I was neither last (I finished 423rd out of 445 runners) nor the first on an ambulance. Mission accomplished!
Mrs. F had a good run, too. She finished 389th with a 35:28. Our son finished 22nd overall (5th for the sub-16 age group) with a time of 19:01. The kids were definately surprised, and our eldest son was ecstatic! Oh, and yes, one of our boys had seen the number and figured out that we were running too, but he kept it to himself and didn't spoil the surprise for anyone. Way to go, Z-man!
Mrs. F just passed me our daughter's camera, so I have photos to upload. Our friend Amy's husband apparantly edited some video of the finishes, and they called to tell me that it should be sitting in my inbox. Our friends, Todd and Ruth Anderson, also tooks some pictures, but I don't know if they were using a digital camera. I'll be sure to ask them tomorrow at church.
Anyway, I yet have four chapters of reading to do and I need to start writing another essay, so I really must go. Thanks for all of your support! We'll post photos and more when we can. We'll also formalize our plans (still leaning toward 100 Pushups and One Hour Runner) and post the details here, too.
Race Day - Mrs. F
First of all, I want to get this out of the way -- I DID IT!!!!!!!!!
I ran the turkey trot with wicked hills in 35 minutes and 28 seconds. I not only beat my first goal of running the whole thing, I beat my time goal by almost 10 full minutes. WOOT!
It was challenging getting everything ready. I had all the kids put out their clothes, socks, shoes, and jackets the night before. I had the diaper bag and my bag backed. We woke everyone up at 6 am, so the kids could have time to eat some breakfast before we left. I had wanted to leave by 715, it was about 725 when we finally got gas and on the road.
I ate a half cinnamon raisen bagel with some cream cheese and a half cup of coffee. I also had a few sips of gatorade before the race( I plan on skipping that step next time).
As I arrived, my anxiety went thru the roof. I had no idea where to go, where to take the kids for child care and there were a lot of people who looked like they knew what they were doing. There was a bit of added stress trying to keep this all under wraps too.
Our cross country runner had went ahead and got his registration. Our friend,Amy, quickly distracted him and they went outside to do some warmups. Mr. F went to get our registration packets while I took the kids to the child care area. I got the little ones settled and the big ones sent off for a walk around the school
Our eldest daughter was going to be holding down the fort with some of the kids. Mr. F told her we were going to go shopping for a birthday present so we wouldnt be at the race. Shes like whatever. Afterwords she told me "Next time you tell me you are going shopping, Im not going to believe you".
Mr. F and I then took some time to figure out how to get the chip attached to our shoe, and our race tags pinned on our shirts. At one point, one son came in and saw the number but he wisely kept that info to himself. And at another point, we had to send Amy off to circumvent our cc runner as he was heading straight for us. Mr. F and I were standing next the to door when our CC runner shows up and points to my race tag and says "Mom, you're running?" with this incredulous look on his face. I tired to downplay it but he wasnt fooled lol. I actually said to him that I started running last week and that I was going to go from 2 minutes of running to a 5k. He was too focused on the race ahead to question me He told me he loved me-- aww how sweet. At this point, he has no clue that Mr. F is running, in face, he turns and hands his jacket and warmups to Mr. F to hold!
As the three of us(Mr. F,my friend Amy and me) positioned ourselves in the back -- we jockeyed for position with some other ladies. A conversation ensued after that and we discovered, they too, had done C25k!! That was pretty cool.
It was confusing at the beginning, after hearing the gun sound, but not knowing where the exact starting line was. So we took it slow on the start but the pack began thinning out. It was pretty amazing to see the sea of people ahead of me on one of the downhills!
I kept up with my friend for the first little bit and it quickly became apparent that her pace was faster. So I fell back, not too far, but far enough to find my own pace. I jockeyed positions with a few different people as I went thruout. Some people walked the big hills, but I ran them all! It was a bit discouraging when some young kids running with other adults, passed me. I just tried to remember that I wasnt here to place ahead of anyone, that I was just here for myself! That helped some.
The course was wicked. Big huge sloping uphills and downhills and very few flat stretches. I swear that first mile(they marked 1 mile and the 2 mile points) was the longest one Ive ever ran. It was a bit encouraging, though just as i passed the 1 mile marker, some other friends appeared near the trail cheering. That was just what I needed to keep running on!
I only got a glimpse of Mr. F once, when i was coming back down around and he was on the upper portion of the path. I was very happy to see that he has several people behind him and he was running well!
The emotional moment came though as I neared the finish line and I saw my friends, and my kids all there cheering me on. It brought tears to my eyes to hear their voices cheering their momma on. I was so concentrating on finishing that I didnt even see the clock. It wasnt until afterwards, that I asked my friends about time. They thought somewhere in the 35 minute range. I was estactic with that time. My friend Amy, who rocks, finished in 33 minutes!~ And ill leave Mr. F to share his time!!
Im sore and a bit stiff but no injuries to report! I still cannot believe I ran an entire 5k race!!!
Keep on running
Mrs. F
PS -- Pics and maybe even video to come later!!
I ran the turkey trot with wicked hills in 35 minutes and 28 seconds. I not only beat my first goal of running the whole thing, I beat my time goal by almost 10 full minutes. WOOT!
It was challenging getting everything ready. I had all the kids put out their clothes, socks, shoes, and jackets the night before. I had the diaper bag and my bag backed. We woke everyone up at 6 am, so the kids could have time to eat some breakfast before we left. I had wanted to leave by 715, it was about 725 when we finally got gas and on the road.
I ate a half cinnamon raisen bagel with some cream cheese and a half cup of coffee. I also had a few sips of gatorade before the race( I plan on skipping that step next time).
As I arrived, my anxiety went thru the roof. I had no idea where to go, where to take the kids for child care and there were a lot of people who looked like they knew what they were doing. There was a bit of added stress trying to keep this all under wraps too.
Our cross country runner had went ahead and got his registration. Our friend,Amy, quickly distracted him and they went outside to do some warmups. Mr. F went to get our registration packets while I took the kids to the child care area. I got the little ones settled and the big ones sent off for a walk around the school
Our eldest daughter was going to be holding down the fort with some of the kids. Mr. F told her we were going to go shopping for a birthday present so we wouldnt be at the race. Shes like whatever. Afterwords she told me "Next time you tell me you are going shopping, Im not going to believe you".
Mr. F and I then took some time to figure out how to get the chip attached to our shoe, and our race tags pinned on our shirts. At one point, one son came in and saw the number but he wisely kept that info to himself. And at another point, we had to send Amy off to circumvent our cc runner as he was heading straight for us. Mr. F and I were standing next the to door when our CC runner shows up and points to my race tag and says "Mom, you're running?" with this incredulous look on his face. I tired to downplay it but he wasnt fooled lol. I actually said to him that I started running last week and that I was going to go from 2 minutes of running to a 5k. He was too focused on the race ahead to question me He told me he loved me-- aww how sweet. At this point, he has no clue that Mr. F is running, in face, he turns and hands his jacket and warmups to Mr. F to hold!
As the three of us(Mr. F,my friend Amy and me) positioned ourselves in the back -- we jockeyed for position with some other ladies. A conversation ensued after that and we discovered, they too, had done C25k!! That was pretty cool.
It was confusing at the beginning, after hearing the gun sound, but not knowing where the exact starting line was. So we took it slow on the start but the pack began thinning out. It was pretty amazing to see the sea of people ahead of me on one of the downhills!
I kept up with my friend for the first little bit and it quickly became apparent that her pace was faster. So I fell back, not too far, but far enough to find my own pace. I jockeyed positions with a few different people as I went thruout. Some people walked the big hills, but I ran them all! It was a bit discouraging when some young kids running with other adults, passed me. I just tried to remember that I wasnt here to place ahead of anyone, that I was just here for myself! That helped some.
The course was wicked. Big huge sloping uphills and downhills and very few flat stretches. I swear that first mile(they marked 1 mile and the 2 mile points) was the longest one Ive ever ran. It was a bit encouraging, though just as i passed the 1 mile marker, some other friends appeared near the trail cheering. That was just what I needed to keep running on!
I only got a glimpse of Mr. F once, when i was coming back down around and he was on the upper portion of the path. I was very happy to see that he has several people behind him and he was running well!
The emotional moment came though as I neared the finish line and I saw my friends, and my kids all there cheering me on. It brought tears to my eyes to hear their voices cheering their momma on. I was so concentrating on finishing that I didnt even see the clock. It wasnt until afterwards, that I asked my friends about time. They thought somewhere in the 35 minute range. I was estactic with that time. My friend Amy, who rocks, finished in 33 minutes!~ And ill leave Mr. F to share his time!!
Im sore and a bit stiff but no injuries to report! I still cannot believe I ran an entire 5k race!!!
Keep on running
Mrs. F
PS -- Pics and maybe even video to come later!!
Friday, November 13, 2009
Another dose bites the dust (and Tomorrow is our Big Day)
Well, my weight loss has slowed over these past two weeks, but I've continued to make progress on another front: controlling my diabetes. Although my eating habits are still far from perfect, the twenty-one (21) pounds I've lost have had a positive impact on my blood sugar levels. I've been feeling hypoglycemic again during the late mornings, so I called the clinic today and they've reduced my meds again. That's great news. Another dose bites the dust!
Tomorrow is our big day. Not only will be run our first 5k, but we'll also be revealing our secret to our kids. Many of them were unhappy to learn that they'll need to be up early in the morning, but we were glad to be able to tell them, "Tough!"
Our digital camera died a while ago, so we will be relying on our daughter to have her camera with her. If we're lucky, one of our friends might have a camera, too. I might have an option for taping our finish, but I'm just not sure about coordinating that one.
Do I have any goals? I've already joked about two positions with which I'm concerned: I don't want to finish last, and I don't want to be first on an ambulance. Apart from that, I'd be really happy with anything at or under 00:45:00. I know that's the same time Mrs. F is hoping to break. In this case, I think she's selling herself short. Even with hills (unless they are killer hills), I figure she'll finish in 00:38:00 or less.
Dinner for tonight will be pasta and meatsauce. Mrs. F is taking care of that so I can get some additional reading done. In addition to our race and my coursework, I also have to put in some work hours this weekend, but I'm trying not to dwell on everything so that I become too stressed. Tonight's agenda will be a couple of chapters of reading, and then some time watching Aliens in the Attic with the family. That's all I had best think about for the evening. I plan to drink a couple of extra glasses of water tonight, and hope to get to bed by 10 PM, with a 6:30 AM alarm.
Good night, all!
Tomorrow is our big day. Not only will be run our first 5k, but we'll also be revealing our secret to our kids. Many of them were unhappy to learn that they'll need to be up early in the morning, but we were glad to be able to tell them, "Tough!"
Our digital camera died a while ago, so we will be relying on our daughter to have her camera with her. If we're lucky, one of our friends might have a camera, too. I might have an option for taping our finish, but I'm just not sure about coordinating that one.
Do I have any goals? I've already joked about two positions with which I'm concerned: I don't want to finish last, and I don't want to be first on an ambulance. Apart from that, I'd be really happy with anything at or under 00:45:00. I know that's the same time Mrs. F is hoping to break. In this case, I think she's selling herself short. Even with hills (unless they are killer hills), I figure she'll finish in 00:38:00 or less.
Dinner for tonight will be pasta and meatsauce. Mrs. F is taking care of that so I can get some additional reading done. In addition to our race and my coursework, I also have to put in some work hours this weekend, but I'm trying not to dwell on everything so that I become too stressed. Tonight's agenda will be a couple of chapters of reading, and then some time watching Aliens in the Attic with the family. That's all I had best think about for the evening. I plan to drink a couple of extra glasses of water tonight, and hope to get to bed by 10 PM, with a 6:30 AM alarm.
Good night, all!
Friday weight check (week 11)
FatManRunning
Last Friday: 280.0 lbs.
Today: 279.4 lbs.
Gain/Loss: -0.6 lbs.
Goal: 210.0 lbs.
Cumulative: 21.0 lbs.
Pounds to lose: 69.0
Comment: I closed my eyes when I stepped on the scale today. I really was not sure what it was going to reveal. I had some good days and some bad days this week. As far as eating goes, today was one of the bad days (free lunch at work never helps, and neither does leftover dessert pizza left in the breakroom!). I would have been at least a full pound down had I not overeaten today. Then again, can I claim that I'm carb-loading before a race? Do I get another weight check tomorrow after the race? Still, I'm glad to be in the 270s. I was about 270 when I married Mrs. F more than 16-1/2 years ago.
Mrs. F
Last Friday: 172.5 lbs.
Today: 173.3 lbs.
Gain/Loss: +0.8 lbs.
Goal: 150.0 lbs.
Cumulative: 9.5 lbs.
Pounds to lose: 23.3
Comment: Eating candy bars, having less workouts, and not tracking my calories did not work out so well this week. I'm trying to remember that this is a long term process and I'm not going to let this set me back.
[FatManRunning says: Don't get down, Mrs. F. Even with this bump, you're still down almost a half a pound from two weeks ago!]
Last Friday: 280.0 lbs.
Today: 279.4 lbs.
Gain/Loss: -0.6 lbs.
Goal: 210.0 lbs.
Cumulative: 21.0 lbs.
Pounds to lose: 69.0
Comment: I closed my eyes when I stepped on the scale today. I really was not sure what it was going to reveal. I had some good days and some bad days this week. As far as eating goes, today was one of the bad days (free lunch at work never helps, and neither does leftover dessert pizza left in the breakroom!). I would have been at least a full pound down had I not overeaten today. Then again, can I claim that I'm carb-loading before a race? Do I get another weight check tomorrow after the race? Still, I'm glad to be in the 270s. I was about 270 when I married Mrs. F more than 16-1/2 years ago.
Mrs. F
Last Friday: 172.5 lbs.
Today: 173.3 lbs.
Gain/Loss: +0.8 lbs.
Goal: 150.0 lbs.
Cumulative: 9.5 lbs.
Pounds to lose: 23.3
Comment: Eating candy bars, having less workouts, and not tracking my calories did not work out so well this week. I'm trying to remember that this is a long term process and I'm not going to let this set me back.
[FatManRunning says: Don't get down, Mrs. F. Even with this bump, you're still down almost a half a pound from two weeks ago!]
Friday Fun - Mrs. F
The weight check went as well as expected ... sigh... trying to remember weight loss is a short term goal. I learned the hard way that you cant eat candy bars, skip workouts and not track calories well in one week. It doesnt equate good results.
So Im allowing myself an off day tommorrow as we are eating out for lunch and then back on the wagon for sunday. Im still going to try to eat wisely today and tommorrow, Im just not going to track it all.
The details of the race are still falling into place. My cross country runner told me that he wants to be there at 730 am so he can go over the course. Um dude, that would mean leaving at 645 am. Not sure that one is happening. My goal is to get out of the house by 7, which gives me 15 minutes of leeway time and I would still get there by 8. I wish I was fast enough to catch up to him and just say hi son ... but Ill have to suffice with the look on his face after I cross the finish line!
I have two main goals for the race. The first, is to run the entire thing. I know that sounds simple but this course has hills and Im not familar with it, so that is the first goal. The 2nd is to do it in less than 45 minutes. Yes, I have run 3 miles in 35 minutes but people, there are HILLS!~ So I want to give myself some time to spare as I really dont know how Ill fare with those.
I spoke to a friend who had started doing this , after I told her and was able to encourage her to keep plugging away. She had some delays after dealing with her mom and a surgery. So I encouraged her to get back on the treadmill. She was going to go all the way back to week 3 , after starting week 4 two weeks ago. I encouraged her to just go with week 4! It was kinda neat to be able to do that!
Im praying the weather cooperates, if not we will be ready. After all we have run in rain and snow!
Keep on running folks
Mrs. F
PS - Reveal pics will be posted either tommorrow or Sunday depending on Mr. F's time availability!!!
So Im allowing myself an off day tommorrow as we are eating out for lunch and then back on the wagon for sunday. Im still going to try to eat wisely today and tommorrow, Im just not going to track it all.
The details of the race are still falling into place. My cross country runner told me that he wants to be there at 730 am so he can go over the course. Um dude, that would mean leaving at 645 am. Not sure that one is happening. My goal is to get out of the house by 7, which gives me 15 minutes of leeway time and I would still get there by 8. I wish I was fast enough to catch up to him and just say hi son ... but Ill have to suffice with the look on his face after I cross the finish line!
I have two main goals for the race. The first, is to run the entire thing. I know that sounds simple but this course has hills and Im not familar with it, so that is the first goal. The 2nd is to do it in less than 45 minutes. Yes, I have run 3 miles in 35 minutes but people, there are HILLS!~ So I want to give myself some time to spare as I really dont know how Ill fare with those.
I spoke to a friend who had started doing this , after I told her and was able to encourage her to keep plugging away. She had some delays after dealing with her mom and a surgery. So I encouraged her to get back on the treadmill. She was going to go all the way back to week 3 , after starting week 4 two weeks ago. I encouraged her to just go with week 4! It was kinda neat to be able to do that!
Im praying the weather cooperates, if not we will be ready. After all we have run in rain and snow!
Keep on running folks
Mrs. F
PS - Reveal pics will be posted either tommorrow or Sunday depending on Mr. F's time availability!!!
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Our next 5k?
I don't mean to county our chickens before they hatch, but I just learned that some people in the next town north of us (about 7 miles) are organizing a 5k that will be held on Thanksgiving morning. The entry fee will be only $7 to cover the cost of a t-shirt. If all goes well this Saturday, I think I may just sign up for that one, too.
Thanks, Mrs. F, for sharing... ;)
Well, I officially have the sinus-cold-funk that had Mrs. F miserable for a number of days. To me, the timing could not be worse. I yet need to finish my coursework for this week, and I have our first race on Saturday.
We did not get out for a run last evening, and that was okay. We ran just one day prior, so it might have been best not to try our first back-to-back runs in the days prior to our big day.
Our sitter backed out on us, but the race lists that they have childcare available. Our eldest daughter will be there with us (she's been an unsung hero of our secret plan, but we'll touch on that more on Saturday), but the little ones just can't be expected to sit still for her for an hour on a cool morning. We're also not sure what to do with one of our litlte ones--our fellow with special needs who has a hard time regulating his temperature (he can get very cold, very fast). I would not want to foist him on the childcare folks at the race, since they'd have no preparedness for dealing with a child like him. Our friend, Amy, who follows this blog (one of two Amys listed as followers), will be running, too. Her husband will be there with their kids, so he might be able to lend a little support, if his kids cooperate.
Our eldest daughter is actually a little miffed with us, because we are forcing her to attend another one of her brother's races. I guess she'll be surprised as well! We've already told her that we need her there to watch the kids because we need to run an errand during the race. She looked confused when we told her that, but since one of the boys has a birthday coming up in a few weeks, we told her that we would be near a Kohl's store, and that we were going to sneak away to find a birthday present while our eldest son was running. She thinks we still hate running as much as she does, so I think she was just jealous that we were getting out of watching the race!
Oh, we will have so much fun!
I'm still not sure if we will let our eldest son in on the secret at the registration table, or after he finishes the race. Perhaps we'll tell him to stay near the finish, to cheer on neighbor Amy, and then Amy can ask him to stay with her to cheer on a couple of friends who will be finishing after her.
I already have a cover story for wearing our running shoes: we're going to wear them as a sign of solidarity, in support of his running. Of course, underneath my jeans and my chamois shirt, I'll have on my running gear, all ready to go.
We're even thinking about having ourselves a bit of a celebration lunch after the race. We're not quite sure about that, though.
Anyway, that's the end of my break, so I need to get back to work.
We did not get out for a run last evening, and that was okay. We ran just one day prior, so it might have been best not to try our first back-to-back runs in the days prior to our big day.
Our sitter backed out on us, but the race lists that they have childcare available. Our eldest daughter will be there with us (she's been an unsung hero of our secret plan, but we'll touch on that more on Saturday), but the little ones just can't be expected to sit still for her for an hour on a cool morning. We're also not sure what to do with one of our litlte ones--our fellow with special needs who has a hard time regulating his temperature (he can get very cold, very fast). I would not want to foist him on the childcare folks at the race, since they'd have no preparedness for dealing with a child like him. Our friend, Amy, who follows this blog (one of two Amys listed as followers), will be running, too. Her husband will be there with their kids, so he might be able to lend a little support, if his kids cooperate.
Our eldest daughter is actually a little miffed with us, because we are forcing her to attend another one of her brother's races. I guess she'll be surprised as well! We've already told her that we need her there to watch the kids because we need to run an errand during the race. She looked confused when we told her that, but since one of the boys has a birthday coming up in a few weeks, we told her that we would be near a Kohl's store, and that we were going to sneak away to find a birthday present while our eldest son was running. She thinks we still hate running as much as she does, so I think she was just jealous that we were getting out of watching the race!
Oh, we will have so much fun!
I'm still not sure if we will let our eldest son in on the secret at the registration table, or after he finishes the race. Perhaps we'll tell him to stay near the finish, to cheer on neighbor Amy, and then Amy can ask him to stay with her to cheer on a couple of friends who will be finishing after her.
I already have a cover story for wearing our running shoes: we're going to wear them as a sign of solidarity, in support of his running. Of course, underneath my jeans and my chamois shirt, I'll have on my running gear, all ready to go.
We're even thinking about having ourselves a bit of a celebration lunch after the race. We're not quite sure about that, though.
Anyway, that's the end of my break, so I need to get back to work.
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