Greenlake

Run 41: Saturday 8/15/09
Weather: 70 and sunny

I ran the loop around Greenlake today as a test for the 5K next month. Would I be ready? I didn't think I was, but I had to at least TRY before I made up my mind as whether to register for the Irongirl. I'd been aiming to run that 5K since I first began this journey. Unfortunately, my progress was delayed by hot summer weather. I've now been so busy with school, getting ready to finish my Web Design certificate, that frankly, I haven't had the time and energy to get out when it is cool enough to run.

So I gave the 3 mile loop a try. It was difficult. I made it around in aprox 40 minutes, but I walked as much as (if not more than) I ran. The whole way around, I was convinced that I'm not ready. I felt disappointed that I couldn't run for more than a couple minutes at a time. Once I saw that I made it around in 40 minutes, I still considered doing the race, even if I had to walk it. But when the next week came, it was too hot to run after work, I was exausted from night classes, and I made the choice NOT to register. I will have other opportunities to a run a 5K. I actually feel good about my decision. It takes the pressure off and now I can focus on school. I have a ton of work to do to build my final project.

I've been taking walks and doing yoga. When I get back to running, I'll be sure and let you all know! Until then, ... auf wiedersehen.

New Personal Best: 30min!

Run 40: Wednesday 8/5/09
Weather: 66 and sunny

It has been INSANELY hot lately. It got to 103 last week. I felt like I had walked into a pizza oven when I stepped outside. It's been all about survival. The cool marine air, that was promised to us, came into town last night. What a difference it has made! Down into the 60's and I was able to go running again.

I was a little worried that I wouldn't be able to muster a run. It's been some time and I haven't had a regular routine. Then, once I started, I wasn't sure I'd get past 3 minutes. But, you know what they say, slow and steady wins the race (or at least allows me to keep going ;).

30 minutes straight, without stopping!! This is a new personal best and I'm very excited about it, especially with my running routine off-track in the summer heat. It felt great! This is just what I needed... a little running therapy.

Keep on keepin' on.

Running Into the Sunset

Run 39: Friday 7/24/09
Weather: 77 at dusk

Still a little too warm outside, I went for a run 30 minutes before dark. It was a great run today, with 30 minutes of total run time. 20, followed by a short walk break, then 10 more. That is one of my best running times! I can tell that my lungs are not straining for breath as much, but the rest of me still struggles. Still, I've come a long way!

Dusk

Run 38: Tuesday 7/21/09
Weather: 75 and getting dark

I found a way to make it happen! I headed out after sunset today. It was still in the mid-70's, a little warmer than I'd like for a run, but at least the sun wasn't on me.

I left my house and started a run that led through the park with 18.5 minutes of total run time, and ended with a 20 minute walk up a steep hill to get home. I was exhausted but happy.

I did it! I managed to run, despite the heat of the day.

Hiatus

It's been a week since my last run. This heat is preventing me from getting outside to run. I'm really bummed to be "benched" from my running plan. But, with the forecast calling for temps in the mid-upper 80's, there is just no way... The lows are in the mid 60's, which would be fine, but it would also mean running at 5am. I am not functional in the mornings and that just won't work.

So, here I am, a runner without a run... waiting for cooler temperatures...
Who knew that summer would pose such challenges?

20 + 5

Run 37: Monday 7/13/09
Weather: low-mid 60's and cloudy

After a nice nap, I got out to the park and had a great run! 20 + 5 minutes, covering the full path, including an incline and a bumpy grass field.

I noticed that my breathing is getting easier. I was hoping to be able to go 30 minutes straight, but I needed a 3min walk to recover on my way back. Maybe next time?

I'm thinking more about the 5K I'm hoping to do in September, but I'd REALLY like to be able to run the whole way. I'm not sure if I'll be ready. With the increased temperatures, my running days have not been as consistent. I guess we'll have to wait and see.

25 minutes straight, and no ipod!

Run 36: Wednesday 7/8/09
Weather: mid 60's and cloudy with a few sprinkles

I was exhausted today. But after a little nap, I headed out to the park. As soon as I got there, I discovered that my ipod battery had died. *gasp*
...I briefly considered heading back home before realizing how silly that sounded. Certainly, I can run without music! It brought to mind an image of a simpler time. Looking at the green grass and simple benches in the park around me, it could have been 1949 instead of 2009. I tend to daydream about the simple life of my grandparents in the 40's, and this set a quiet, mindful mood for my run.

So, I ran, sans musical accompaniment. And ran and ran and ran... for 25 minutes straight! I was more than ready to stop by the time I got to 20 minutes, but pushed myself to continue for the full 25.

This day had been an emotionally challenging and taxing one for me, and I was so proud for getting out there and running anyway. Running IS cheaper than therapy, after all. :)