The Tuesdays on the Run this week asks "If you could make the perfect race, what would you like to see included? Do you have any deal breakers that would make you avoid signing up for a race? Have you run a race that you would consider "perfect"?"
Must Haves/Deal Breakers:
Closed to traffic. I've run a few races that have been on roads open or partially open to traffic and as a rule I hate them. I'm looking at you Lola's Half Marathon.
The exception is Feet in the Street because you just cannot believe how well done that race is, including traffic management.
Chip timed: When I was picking my last 5K, that was something that I really looked for. This seems to be an issue particularly in the 5K distance. Longer distances are almost always chip timed.
Excellent Race Organization: There's one race organization that's kind of notorious locally as one to be
avoided. They famously cancelled
a full marathon in a way that just screamed "let me take your
money and hang on to it for a while, because we know we don't have
permits for this race".
For me to fork over money, the race organizers have to be legit. Locally, I've enjoyed any Mary Anderson Races or Final Stretch Races. On a larger scale, both TCM and Flying Pig are incredibly well organized.
The "perfect" race:
The closest to perfect I've ever seen was actually the Avondale 5K. It's a very small race, partially open to traffic. It was so crazy well organized, and the police did such a great job of traffic management, I'll run it every year I can. (This race has a special place in my heart because it's where I'm from.)
Honorable mention: When I'm asked to compare TCM and Flying Pig, I put Flying Pig first. TCM seems to have race routes in more affluent areas of town only. Flying Pig routes covers some low income and African American neighborhoods. Everyone gets involved, including schools and neighborhood groups. It's a big city race but all the different groups and course entertainment make it feel like a small town race that belongs to every little neighborhood on the course.
31.10.18
27.10.18
Linkfest: Runner advice, etc.
Runner advice #1 Run like we are lifting you up and carrying you towards your goal. I used this on race day and literally imagined my friends "lifting me up" those hills. I even made a note to myself to remember.
Also, be your own best friend, be kind and supportive of yourself. True story. During a race, I have to be my best cheerleader. Anyone who knows me knows "cheerleader" isn't a word used to describe me.
Do you encounter wildlife on your run? I am totally afraid of bears. What would I do if I was running and I saw one?
Sports related, and life related, but not running related. I never went to any homecoming. Not in high school, college, grad school, or as an alum. Though I'm sure my reasons are different than those mentioned in this article, it's never been for me either.
Do you encounter wildlife on your run? I am totally afraid of bears. What would I do if I was running and I saw one?
Sports related, and life related, but not running related. I never went to any homecoming. Not in high school, college, grad school, or as an alum. Though I'm sure my reasons are different than those mentioned in this article, it's never been for me either.
20.10.18
Gracie's Cupcake Trot 5K
Gracie's Cupcake Trot in Andover, MN.
Registration: Online via IM Athlete. Since it's via IM Athlete, it's fairly predictable and easy.
Packet Pickup: It's a race day pick up. The volunteers are super sweet!
SWAG: Pink bracelet, a hair tie that I did not take, and an adorable shirt. All runners get a free cupcake after the race.
Transportation to and from the race: I drove to the race, got there around 8:45am which was PLENTY of time. Parking was in a lot, totally not a problem.
Volunteers: There was a mix of volunteers. Some people had shirts saying "Gracies...." (Mom, Dad, uncle, etc) and some had normal volunteer shirts. Most of the course marshall volunteers appeared to be teenagers. I want to know how this organization got so many kids to stand out in the cold and clap for me. That alone is wonderful.
Start Line: The start line was in a parking lot. No joke. Also, no timing mats.
Finish: OMG, the last 0.01 miles are up this super steep little "speed bump" thing. Someone was behind me and I was trying so hard not to get passed. I thought I was going to die.
Things to know:
Timing: The website says this is a chip timed race. In real life, it's a gun start and chip finish. There were 65 people in this race, so the gun times and chip times are about the same. Not a big deal. But, it's a distinction a lot of "serious" runners would make.
Start time: This race started 15 minutes late because there was a presentation about the non-profit putting on the race that took a while. I knew at 9:20 when the kids run hadn't started that the race wouldn't go on time. There was a warm space inside (with indoor restrooms with hot water) to wait. It's not a big deal, but it's something that people who come to run a race will notice.
Course Map: There's no Course Map available online. I wish there was. Seeing an elevation profile also would've helped me have a better day. I think some runners would've been curious enough about the course to bring them out just for that. Since it's a certified course, there's got to be a map somewhere right?
Race Recommended For: This is a very small, very low key race. I saw lots of kids and families, including a few moms with strollers. Overall the race was adorable, the volunteers were nice, and I'd do it again if the timing works out.
Fasties: Because it's a small race, you will probably win
People who like to run alone: I got a lot of practice racing the tangents and chasing people. Even though this was a race, it felt like a training run in some ways too, because I was on my own so much.
Families/Kids: There were a lot of kids here; there's also a shorter fun run for kids before the 5K if you have a kid who's too little to go 3 miles
Health conditions: If congenital heart defects have impacted your life/family, these are your people.
If you're normally in the back of the pack; here's my infographic. I was in the top 10 women.
My run:
Start time: Posted as 9:30am for the 5K. In real life, it was 9:45am, which they announced around 9:15am. At least there was a warm place to wait.
Weather: Ask me about the wind and snow. The wind was rough. Snow stopped before the race though.
Wardrobe: Top: Long sleeve shirt; jacket, hat
Bottoms: Brooks running pants, wool socks
Shoes: Merrel Trail Crushers because I wasn't clear if this race was going to be on pavement or not
Route: This course runs around Bunker Hills Regional Park. I mostly ran this race because I wanted to see Bunker Hills and decide if it was worth it to buy an Anoka County Park pass. (If any of these paved trails are plowed in the winter, I absolutely will buy a park pass.) This is a very hilly course. Starts on a road, but mostly on paved trails. In most places there were volunteers to direct runners at turns, but a couple more places could've used a volunteer. I was glad I had a runner ahead of me to follow.
Plan/Goals: I was sort of thinking if I could run under 30 minutes or not. Ultimately the plan was "run by feel" and "run hard". I didn't know if I could do 30 minutes because I didn't know the course or elevation.
Execution: I ran the first mile too fast, but generally did the "run hard" and "run by feel" thing quite well. Around mile 3 I could hear someone behind me so I really poured on the gas at the end. I thought I was going to die. There was no oxygen. I really didn't want to get passed.
Nutrition: LOL. Did I tell you about the cupcake at the end?
Results: 32:45, 3rd in my age group. I don't know if I get an AG award because I left shortly after the race.
From today, I learned: Even in a race where I'm not going to look at my watch, might be a good idea to check my pace in the first quarter mile to make sure I'm not being an idiot. I started the race a bit too fast. I think if I'd been smarter, I could've squeeze out even more in the last mile.
Remember for next time: The first mile is the hardest. Don't be an idiot.
Bonus: Ask me about the cupcake at the end.
My first race of 2018 was super cold and windy, so there's a nice symmetry with the conditions of this race.
Registration: Online via IM Athlete. Since it's via IM Athlete, it's fairly predictable and easy.
Packet Pickup: It's a race day pick up. The volunteers are super sweet!
SWAG: Pink bracelet, a hair tie that I did not take, and an adorable shirt. All runners get a free cupcake after the race.
Transportation to and from the race: I drove to the race, got there around 8:45am which was PLENTY of time. Parking was in a lot, totally not a problem.
Volunteers: There was a mix of volunteers. Some people had shirts saying "Gracies...." (Mom, Dad, uncle, etc) and some had normal volunteer shirts. Most of the course marshall volunteers appeared to be teenagers. I want to know how this organization got so many kids to stand out in the cold and clap for me. That alone is wonderful.
Start Line: The start line was in a parking lot. No joke. Also, no timing mats.
Things to know:
Timing: The website says this is a chip timed race. In real life, it's a gun start and chip finish. There were 65 people in this race, so the gun times and chip times are about the same. Not a big deal. But, it's a distinction a lot of "serious" runners would make.
Start time: This race started 15 minutes late because there was a presentation about the non-profit putting on the race that took a while. I knew at 9:20 when the kids run hadn't started that the race wouldn't go on time. There was a warm space inside (with indoor restrooms with hot water) to wait. It's not a big deal, but it's something that people who come to run a race will notice.
Course Map: There's no Course Map available online. I wish there was. Seeing an elevation profile also would've helped me have a better day. I think some runners would've been curious enough about the course to bring them out just for that. Since it's a certified course, there's got to be a map somewhere right?
Race Recommended For: This is a very small, very low key race. I saw lots of kids and families, including a few moms with strollers. Overall the race was adorable, the volunteers were nice, and I'd do it again if the timing works out.
Fasties: Because it's a small race, you will probably win
People who like to run alone: I got a lot of practice racing the tangents and chasing people. Even though this was a race, it felt like a training run in some ways too, because I was on my own so much.
Families/Kids: There were a lot of kids here; there's also a shorter fun run for kids before the 5K if you have a kid who's too little to go 3 miles
Health conditions: If congenital heart defects have impacted your life/family, these are your people.
If you're normally in the back of the pack; here's my infographic. I was in the top 10 women.
My run:
Start time: Posted as 9:30am for the 5K. In real life, it was 9:45am, which they announced around 9:15am. At least there was a warm place to wait.
Weather: Ask me about the wind and snow. The wind was rough. Snow stopped before the race though.
Bottoms: Brooks running pants, wool socks
Shoes: Merrel Trail Crushers because I wasn't clear if this race was going to be on pavement or not
Plan/Goals: I was sort of thinking if I could run under 30 minutes or not. Ultimately the plan was "run by feel" and "run hard". I didn't know if I could do 30 minutes because I didn't know the course or elevation.
Nutrition: LOL. Did I tell you about the cupcake at the end?
Results: 32:45, 3rd in my age group. I don't know if I get an AG award because I left shortly after the race.
From today, I learned: Even in a race where I'm not going to look at my watch, might be a good idea to check my pace in the first quarter mile to make sure I'm not being an idiot. I started the race a bit too fast. I think if I'd been smarter, I could've squeeze out even more in the last mile.
Remember for next time: The first mile is the hardest. Don't be an idiot.
Bonus: Ask me about the cupcake at the end.
My first race of 2018 was super cold and windy, so there's a nice symmetry with the conditions of this race.
16.10.18
Outrun your... uh-oh
My friends at TCM had a promotion this year called "Outrun yourself" for the 10 Mile and Marathon participants. If you ran the race last year, run the same race this year, and your time is faster, you are automatically qualified for the promotion.
Let me tell you, I think the worst thing in the world would be to win regular first prize. How bummed would I be if I won a freaking marathon entry? I really just want the hat.
13.10.18
Race Photos
TCM offers free race photos for the 5K, 10K, and 10 mile. Last year I couldn't find any pictures of myself from the 5K or the 10 Mile, but I had some from the 10K. This year, I have them from all 3 races.
10K (Saturday): I am dressed like a highlighter!
5K: Not posted because it's like a page from 'Where's Waldo' and I'm in the same outfit. (Perhaps if you gave us the loop course back, things would be less crowded?)
10 Mile, half way point. I legit did not know there was a camera there until I saw someone else 'strike a pose' and then I looked over and saw what it was.
10 Mile Finish. The guy in the gray shirt kind of tried to pass me /cut me off. I was aggravated. Would you have done that to a dude? No? Then you're a jerk for doing it to me. Here's him getting up in my business. (Also kind of like Where's Waldo)
And here's me out kicking him. Hard.
10K (Saturday): I am dressed like a highlighter!
5K: Not posted because it's like a page from 'Where's Waldo' and I'm in the same outfit. (Perhaps if you gave us the loop course back, things would be less crowded?)
10 Mile, half way point. I legit did not know there was a camera there until I saw someone else 'strike a pose' and then I looked over and saw what it was.
10 Mile Finish. The guy in the gray shirt kind of tried to pass me /cut me off. I was aggravated. Would you have done that to a dude? No? Then you're a jerk for doing it to me. Here's him getting up in my business. (Also kind of like Where's Waldo)
And here's me out kicking him. Hard.
12.10.18
Day of the Girl Relay
Plan: Ragnar is having the Day of the Girl challenge to benefit a women's running group in Ethiopia. Y'all know this is my thing, right?
Route: On the Greenway for the most part, and then finish with a walking cool down on the track. It's too cold for this crap. (5.24 miles on the Greenway, 0.47 miles on the track for a cooldown).
Weather: It was 37* and 17mph winds. Running into the wind was not super fun, but running with the wind on the way back was really a blast. (Almost literally.)
Wardrobe: Pants, long sleeve shirt, pull over, compression socks, Merrel shoes. I did not wear gloves and slightly regretted that decision for a minute. Did I tell you about the wind?
Execution: So, I wasn't looking at my watch for a while because my sleeves were pulled up so high. But when I did look at my watch, I was thrilled to see my HR in the low 130s and me just trucking along like always.
From today, I learned: Running into the wind is good practice for not "fighting" the wind. Running with the wind is fun because it just is.
Bonus: So gar over 6,000 miles have been logged. Mine are already recorded.
Route: On the Greenway for the most part, and then finish with a walking cool down on the track. It's too cold for this crap. (5.24 miles on the Greenway, 0.47 miles on the track for a cooldown).
Wardrobe: Pants, long sleeve shirt, pull over, compression socks, Merrel shoes. I did not wear gloves and slightly regretted that decision for a minute. Did I tell you about the wind?
From today, I learned: Running into the wind is good practice for not "fighting" the wind. Running with the wind is fun because it just is.
Bonus: So gar over 6,000 miles have been logged. Mine are already recorded.
10.10.18
TC Loony Challenge Race Review
Registration Online. Register early for the race series. It's popular because it's a guaranteed entry to the 10 Miler.
Packet Pickup: For the series, racers get a 'Saturday' bib that uses 1 number for both races (Take a lesson Flying Pig) and one number for the Sunday Race. The Sunday bib has a little 'Loony Challenge' emblem on the front, and you get back tags for both days. The expo is also the TC Marathon Expo. It has a good mix of vendors, races, and local charities. I picked up a hat while I was there. I looked in the official store but I wasn't wild about anything they had.
SWAG:
Saturday: 10K Medal and shirt; 5K Medal and shirt, one pair of gloves. The 10K medal and 5K medal are the same, which is different from years past, and seems pretty cheap to me. Like, oh, now I have two of this medal. WTF?
Sunday: 10 Mile medal and shirt. Pair of gloves. The shirt is neon. It's definitely one of the uglier shirts I've ever seen. Free beer at the finish for those over 21. This year there were vodka samples too, so that was on point.
Race Series: Vest for the series. Medal for the series. The vest is a pleasant surprise. It's a nice weight, zippered pockets, and even a secret inside zipper. The medal for the series is always one of the prettier medals I get every year.
Transportation to and from the race:
Expo: Bus to/from West 7th, where I'd parked and met a friend for lunch.
Saturday: Bus/Green Line to the races and then Green Line to Dungeon Master's car to get home
Sunday: Bus to the start line; Green Line to a stop where I met Olive and we cheered for the marathon for a while before she took me home.
Start Line:
10K/5K uses a start line next to the finish. This year, no joke, there was a box truck parked on the course , 100ft past the start. It was fenced off and everything. They knew it was going to be staying there. Truck/fencing situation lead to a horrible bottle neck after the start. They should've just fenced off the course to that width from the start for both races. 10K and 5K races are a mass start. The 5K in particular should be a wave start. It is way too crowded with kids seeding themselves incorrectly.
10 Mile start line is in Minneapolis. This year there were 4 corrals, which meant I started around 7:25am. I was to the front of the corral, so I got to see the other corrals going off. That was fun. The 10 Mile start is fun because some of the marathon runners come and cheer at the start line and it's one big park.
Course:
10K: Same as it always has been. Out and back along Summit Ave with a fair amount of climbing.
5K: Reverted to the old (bad?) course after the fantastic changes they made in 2017. The 2017 course was a loop. The old (or current I guess?) course is an out and back with 2 way running along Summit Ave. It is waaay to narrow for the number of people on the course, and for kids who don't get the concept of 'two way traffic'. I watched kids and adults almost run into the elite runners coming 'back' because they were on the wrong side of the street. This is another reason they should do wave starts. It's just better for runner safety. (I do think kids belong in this race and it's a well done race for kids. There are some things the organizers could do to make it safer for all the competitors, especially kids who've never run a race before and don't know the etiquette.)
10 Mile: This course has been the same for a long time (as long as there's not a land slide in the way). The course has a lot of climbing, particularly in the middle. I find it challenging but super fun.
Pace Team:
10K, 5K: No pacers
10 Mile: Well, there's what the website says, and then there's what happened. There are pacers for this race. However, the corral/pacer situation was a total cluster. Last year I ran a 1:54 which put me in Corral D today. (I was 32021, and Corral D started at 32000, so I was close to getting into Corral C). Based on last year's time of 1:54, obviously a good goal would be 1:50 right? The 1:50 (11:00/mile) pacer was in Corral C, so I couldn't run with them. (Ok; sometimes that's how things break down.). Oh, by the way, the 2:00 pacer (12:00/mile) also started in Corral C. I think that person was straight up in the wrong place. I passed her in my last mile and NO ONE was with her. Because really, if you qualify for Corral C, you run faster than a 12:00/mile. A lot of people in Corral D run faster than that. For next year, if the corrals are split at the same paces, they should have a second 1:50 pacer in Corral D. And the 2:00 pacer also needs to start in Corral D where they belong.
Fan Support:
10K, 5K: People do come out for this and stand on Summit. It's not a ton of people but there is some support. The chute into the finish is packed with people, so that's always a blast.
10 Mile: I thought there were more people out than last year. Or maybe I was just paying more attention this year? There's a ton of people downtown, and this year there were a few spots of people along the River Bottoms as well. SE Mpls and into St Paul there were lots of people, and Summit Ave is always crazy. I ran by the free beer at mile 8. I thought it'd just make me sick. Butif it's your cup of tea, it's there. Apparently I also ran by Whiskey shots. That doesn't sound like something I'd pass up.
Finish: All 3 races have the same finish line in St Paul near the Capitol. As a runner, it's the best finish line of any race I've ever done. It is amazing. And then there's what happens just after the finish line.
5K/10K: Finish area is super family friendly and the 'chute' is pretty small. There's medals, water, bananas, and a couple other snacks.
10 Mile: The first part of the finisher chute is pretty standard. Bonus here because they usually have hot broth. Might as well be manna from heaven. Shortly after that things go haywire. The chute is crazy long and winding. It's just walking around, the only other thing there is in there is baggage. Outside the chute are a few other amenities. The changing tent and family reunion area were in a field that was unfortunately pretty soggy this year. In the changing tent a lot of runners stood on their mylar blankets to change and stay out of the mud. After I was warm and dry, there's a beer garden. There's also a PR bell that I couldn't find this year. At some point, I was done walking and looking for it, so that's partly on me.
Race Recommended For:
Race Series: Is great for someone who wants to run a lot over the weekend, but not run the marathon. It's okay for slower/back of the pack runners but not walkers. You need to run a 10K comfortably in 1:25 or less. (Because the 5K starts 1:30 after the 10K.) For me, training for two back to back days of racing was a good challenge for my endurance and my strength.
10K: Fasties, first timers, race walkers, anyone who loves a big race, anyone who wants to try a well supported 10K. There are race walkers and walkers in this race, but not as many as in the 5K.
5K: Fasties, first timers, race walkers, walkers, and kids who are big enough to do a 3 mile race.
10 Miler: Fasties, first timers, race walkers (I have been passed by many race walkers here), anyone who's looking to go up in distance from a 5K or 10K, anyone who wants to increase their speed over a longer race, anyone who likes climbing or hilly races.
Bonus: I put my series results on this report last year, so including it here again.
SWAG:
Saturday: 10K Medal and shirt; 5K Medal and shirt, one pair of gloves. The 10K medal and 5K medal are the same, which is different from years past, and seems pretty cheap to me. Like, oh, now I have two of this medal. WTF?
Sunday: 10 Mile medal and shirt. Pair of gloves. The shirt is neon. It's definitely one of the uglier shirts I've ever seen. Free beer at the finish for those over 21. This year there were vodka samples too, so that was on point.
Race Series: Vest for the series. Medal for the series. The vest is a pleasant surprise. It's a nice weight, zippered pockets, and even a secret inside zipper. The medal for the series is always one of the prettier medals I get every year.
Expo: Bus to/from West 7th, where I'd parked and met a friend for lunch.
Saturday: Bus/Green Line to the races and then Green Line to Dungeon Master's car to get home
Sunday: Bus to the start line; Green Line to a stop where I met Olive and we cheered for the marathon for a while before she took me home.
10K/5K uses a start line next to the finish. This year, no joke, there was a box truck parked on the course , 100ft past the start. It was fenced off and everything. They knew it was going to be staying there. Truck/fencing situation lead to a horrible bottle neck after the start. They should've just fenced off the course to that width from the start for both races. 10K and 5K races are a mass start. The 5K in particular should be a wave start. It is way too crowded with kids seeding themselves incorrectly.
10 Mile start line is in Minneapolis. This year there were 4 corrals, which meant I started around 7:25am. I was to the front of the corral, so I got to see the other corrals going off. That was fun. The 10 Mile start is fun because some of the marathon runners come and cheer at the start line and it's one big park.
10K: Same as it always has been. Out and back along Summit Ave with a fair amount of climbing.
5K: Reverted to the old (bad?) course after the fantastic changes they made in 2017. The 2017 course was a loop. The old (or current I guess?) course is an out and back with 2 way running along Summit Ave. It is waaay to narrow for the number of people on the course, and for kids who don't get the concept of 'two way traffic'. I watched kids and adults almost run into the elite runners coming 'back' because they were on the wrong side of the street. This is another reason they should do wave starts. It's just better for runner safety. (I do think kids belong in this race and it's a well done race for kids. There are some things the organizers could do to make it safer for all the competitors, especially kids who've never run a race before and don't know the etiquette.)
10 Mile: This course has been the same for a long time (as long as there's not a land slide in the way). The course has a lot of climbing, particularly in the middle. I find it challenging but super fun.
Pace Team:
10K, 5K: No pacers
10 Mile: Well, there's what the website says, and then there's what happened. There are pacers for this race. However, the corral/pacer situation was a total cluster. Last year I ran a 1:54 which put me in Corral D today. (I was 32021, and Corral D started at 32000, so I was close to getting into Corral C). Based on last year's time of 1:54, obviously a good goal would be 1:50 right? The 1:50 (11:00/mile) pacer was in Corral C, so I couldn't run with them. (Ok; sometimes that's how things break down.). Oh, by the way, the 2:00 pacer (12:00/mile) also started in Corral C. I think that person was straight up in the wrong place. I passed her in my last mile and NO ONE was with her. Because really, if you qualify for Corral C, you run faster than a 12:00/mile. A lot of people in Corral D run faster than that. For next year, if the corrals are split at the same paces, they should have a second 1:50 pacer in Corral D. And the 2:00 pacer also needs to start in Corral D where they belong.
10K, 5K: People do come out for this and stand on Summit. It's not a ton of people but there is some support. The chute into the finish is packed with people, so that's always a blast.
10 Mile: I thought there were more people out than last year. Or maybe I was just paying more attention this year? There's a ton of people downtown, and this year there were a few spots of people along the River Bottoms as well. SE Mpls and into St Paul there were lots of people, and Summit Ave is always crazy. I ran by the free beer at mile 8. I thought it'd just make me sick. Butif it's your cup of tea, it's there. Apparently I also ran by Whiskey shots. That doesn't sound like something I'd pass up.
5K/10K: Finish area is super family friendly and the 'chute' is pretty small. There's medals, water, bananas, and a couple other snacks.
10 Mile: The first part of the finisher chute is pretty standard. Bonus here because they usually have hot broth. Might as well be manna from heaven. Shortly after that things go haywire. The chute is crazy long and winding. It's just walking around, the only other thing there is in there is baggage. Outside the chute are a few other amenities. The changing tent and family reunion area were in a field that was unfortunately pretty soggy this year. In the changing tent a lot of runners stood on their mylar blankets to change and stay out of the mud. After I was warm and dry, there's a beer garden. There's also a PR bell that I couldn't find this year. At some point, I was done walking and looking for it, so that's partly on me.
Race Series: Is great for someone who wants to run a lot over the weekend, but not run the marathon. It's okay for slower/back of the pack runners but not walkers. You need to run a 10K comfortably in 1:25 or less. (Because the 5K starts 1:30 after the 10K.) For me, training for two back to back days of racing was a good challenge for my endurance and my strength.
10K: Fasties, first timers, race walkers, anyone who loves a big race, anyone who wants to try a well supported 10K. There are race walkers and walkers in this race, but not as many as in the 5K.
5K: Fasties, first timers, race walkers, walkers, and kids who are big enough to do a 3 mile race.
10 Miler: Fasties, first timers, race walkers (I have been passed by many race walkers here), anyone who's looking to go up in distance from a 5K or 10K, anyone who wants to increase their speed over a longer race, anyone who likes climbing or hilly races.
9.10.18
TC 10 Mile Race Report
Start time: 7am for Corral A and the elite men. My corral started around 7:25am.
Weather: 40s, wind around 5mph. It actually felt a bit warmer than yesterday
Wardrobe:
Pre-race: I had on throw away pants, throw away top, and throw away gloves (old pair of socks)
Race: Nike shorts, Illuminite top, fleece head band, compression socks, Skora shoes
Post-race: Wool shirt, sweat shirt, and my new Loony Challenge Vest, Hat, Sweat pants, compression socks, gloves. I should've brought a second layer for my legs becuase I was still cold.
Transportation: I took the 5:40am bus to the race. Post race, I took the Green Line over to Prospect Park, Olive picked me up, and we watched the marathon over in her neck of the woods.
Route: This is the regular TC 10 Mile route. I think they legit had some of the mile markers misplaced. I hit mile 1 early, which should not have happened, and I hit mile 2 super later.
Plan/Goals: My 'scary' goal was to run 1:50. I kind of let that go when I realized the 1:50 pacer was not even going to be in my corral. My A goal was to beat last year's 10 Mile and Loony Challenge times.
My 'plan' was to run a solid pace, and then not look at pace at all during the climbs. On the climbs I used some of the advice from here including that one about 'run like we are lifting you up and carrying you to the finish' which for some reason made me feel lighter on the hills.
Execution: I did not run an 11:00/mile pace, but I did beat last year by almost a full minute. I got a little wild at the start, and paid for it later.
I had a good cadence on the hills, and just suffered up them.
I put my foot down the last mile and cruised on home.
Nutrition: I wound up being very hungry, like I wanted some calories for this run. I had a pre run Avocado (3/4 of one) with salt. I should've had a banana or a Larabar or something too. I wound up taking Gatorade at miles 3.5, 5, and 7 and the calories made me feel a bit better.
Results: 1:52:58 or an 11:18 mile for the 10 Mile. Loony Challenge results are an 11:14 mile, which is a 8 second/mile increase over last year. Over 19+ miles, I'll take it. That increase in speed really hurt. Especially today. Last year Loony Results and 10 Mile results for reference.
From today, I learned: Hard work in training pays off on race day!
Plan for hills.
I think the marathon is going to hurt.
Don't run the first mile too fast.
More calories the second day of a two day series.
SWAG: Long sleeve shirt and a medal. Plus a pair of gloves. And a free beer at the end of the race for those over 21 with an ID.
Remember for next time: Bring a second layer for my legs post race.
The 5:40am bus is actually the 5:36am bus on Sundays.
Bonus: There were vodka samples in the beer tent.
Weather: 40s, wind around 5mph. It actually felt a bit warmer than yesterday
Pre-race: I had on throw away pants, throw away top, and throw away gloves (old pair of socks)
Race: Nike shorts, Illuminite top, fleece head band, compression socks, Skora shoes
Post-race: Wool shirt, sweat shirt, and my new Loony Challenge Vest, Hat, Sweat pants, compression socks, gloves. I should've brought a second layer for my legs becuase I was still cold.
Transportation: I took the 5:40am bus to the race. Post race, I took the Green Line over to Prospect Park, Olive picked me up, and we watched the marathon over in her neck of the woods.
My 'plan' was to run a solid pace, and then not look at pace at all during the climbs. On the climbs I used some of the advice from here including that one about 'run like we are lifting you up and carrying you to the finish' which for some reason made me feel lighter on the hills.
I had a good cadence on the hills, and just suffered up them.
I put my foot down the last mile and cruised on home.
Nutrition: I wound up being very hungry, like I wanted some calories for this run. I had a pre run Avocado (3/4 of one) with salt. I should've had a banana or a Larabar or something too. I wound up taking Gatorade at miles 3.5, 5, and 7 and the calories made me feel a bit better.
Plan for hills.
I think the marathon is going to hurt.
Don't run the first mile too fast.
More calories the second day of a two day series.
SWAG: Long sleeve shirt and a medal. Plus a pair of gloves. And a free beer at the end of the race for those over 21 with an ID.
Remember for next time: Bring a second layer for my legs post race.
The 5:40am bus is actually the 5:36am bus on Sundays.
Bonus: There were vodka samples in the beer tent.
8.10.18
TC 10K and TC 5K Race Report
10K Start time: 7:15am for the 10K, this is the same time as last year.
Weather: Low-mid 40s and windy. I was fine running, but under dressed for the start line.
Wardrobe: Illuminite shirt, arm sleeves, Happy pants, compression socks, Merrel shoes; hat. I looked like a highlighter but I was hard to miss.
Transportation: 5:40am bus to Green Line. Dungeon Master took me home in exchange for a hot, home cooked breakfast. There was a long time between the bus and the train so I practiced my selfie game.
Route: 10K route has been the same every time I've run it.
Plan/Goals: My goal was A) run under 11:20s and B) not do anything stupid.
Execution: Part A: done. Part B: It doesn't feel stupid at the moment, but I also don't believe it.
Nutrition: Pre-race was 3/4 of an avocado, salted. Post race was a banana and some water.
Results: I haven't looked at the results yet. I'll tell you after tomorrow's race.
Update: I'm happy with this.
From today, I learned: Things that went well were staying relaxed on the hill, telling myself I am strong enough for hills, and keeping my cadence high. I got a little aggravated at the start, there was a big bottle neck just after and it was kind of a cluster.
SWAG: 10K has a medal and a gray shirt.
Remember for next time: I spent a lot of time thinking about the camber on Summit Ave. Follow the line dividing the bike lane from traffic.
The Corporate Team Challenge tent is heated, but there is no place to change this year.
Take the bus to Park Ave and walk to the US Bank Stadium stop. (For some reason I legit could not remember this from last year.)
Bonus: LOL. Let me just get back in line to run another race.
5K Start time: 8:45am for the 5K. This start time has changed over the years. The first time I did Loony, it was 90 minutes between races (which is tight but doable), then it went to 2hrs, then 1:45, now we're back down to 90 minutes between races.
Weather: Somehow windier and colder than before the first race. 40s and windy.
Route: The 5K route is back to the original 5K route and I am aggravated and bummed. The 5K route is an out and back, mostly along Summit Ave. It is waaaay too packed to have two way runners there, especially with all the kids in the back of that race. Race organizers should either let us go back to the 2017 route, or have a staggered/corral style start.
Plan/Goals: After the 10K, I adjusted. My first goal was not to get ticked off and knock anyone over in the first mile of the race from it being too crowded. After that, run mostly by feel and have fun. Try to run under 11:20s and most importantly don't do anything stupid.
Execution: It turned out probably to be a good thing that the first mile was the
slowest of any I'd run so far, because I kept some in the tank for
later. I had a great time. I think about 20 people past me in the last 0.1 miles because I was finishing at the pace I'd been running the whole time, not a 'I don't have to run anymore ever after these 100 feet' sprint. It's fine. I still feel like I did what I wanted there.
Nutrition: 5am: Avocado; after 10K: Banana and water; after 5K: hard boiled eggs wrapped in prosciutto. (Because post race nutrition is super important if I have to do this again tomorrow)
Results: I won't look until after the 10Miler tomorrow.
Update: I think things went well.
From today, I learned: Be patient in the first mile of a crowded race. Things will sort themselves out and there will be plenty of room.
SWAG: Well, I got the exact same medal they gave out for the 10K, so now I have two of those. WTF?!? At least the shirt is different. This one is navy.
Remember for next time: That first mile is slow. Be patient.
Caribou Coffee is no longer a sponsor, so there's not a ton of post-race coffee options. Though the Challenge tent did have coffee for its participants.
Bonus: Dungeon Master gave me a ride home. I cooked her breakfast. Or, in my case, Second Breakfast. Congrats to Dungeon Master on completing the 5K race series!
Nutrition: Pre-race was 3/4 of an avocado, salted. Post race was a banana and some water.
Update: I'm happy with this.
From today, I learned: Things that went well were staying relaxed on the hill, telling myself I am strong enough for hills, and keeping my cadence high. I got a little aggravated at the start, there was a big bottle neck just after and it was kind of a cluster.
SWAG: 10K has a medal and a gray shirt.
Remember for next time: I spent a lot of time thinking about the camber on Summit Ave. Follow the line dividing the bike lane from traffic.
The Corporate Team Challenge tent is heated, but there is no place to change this year.
Take the bus to Park Ave and walk to the US Bank Stadium stop. (For some reason I legit could not remember this from last year.)
Bonus: LOL. Let me just get back in line to run another race.
5K Start time: 8:45am for the 5K. This start time has changed over the years. The first time I did Loony, it was 90 minutes between races (which is tight but doable), then it went to 2hrs, then 1:45, now we're back down to 90 minutes between races.
Weather: Somehow windier and colder than before the first race. 40s and windy.
Nutrition: 5am: Avocado; after 10K: Banana and water; after 5K: hard boiled eggs wrapped in prosciutto. (Because post race nutrition is super important if I have to do this again tomorrow)
Update: I think things went well.
From today, I learned: Be patient in the first mile of a crowded race. Things will sort themselves out and there will be plenty of room.
SWAG: Well, I got the exact same medal they gave out for the 10K, so now I have two of those. WTF?!? At least the shirt is different. This one is navy.
Remember for next time: That first mile is slow. Be patient.
Caribou Coffee is no longer a sponsor, so there's not a ton of post-race coffee options. Though the Challenge tent did have coffee for its participants.
7.10.18
Loony Challenge 1 Week To Go
Weekly Miles Planned: Not that many. Just be patient and enjoy the taper.
Actual: 25 run, 2 walked
Long Run Miles Planned: 6-8
Actual:: 6.65 Miles on Sunday morning.
Sunday Planned: 6-10 Miles at MAF, Sunday Kettlebell Workout, Sunday Abs
Actual:
Run: 6.65 Miles at Ft Snelling with a goal of having fun.
Kettlebells: Done, and a minute faster than last week
Abs: Also done.
Bonus 2.5 miles walk with Dungeon Master on the track at the gym.
From today, I learned: Normally I run, walk the last 5-10 minutes of the route back to the gym, and then do my weights/abs workout. Today I ran, cooled down, got in my car and drove to the gym, and then did weights/abs. My weights workout is rep based, and this week I got it done about 1 minute faster than last week, at the same reps and weights.
Monday Planned:6-10 Miles at MAF 1-3 Miles, Plyos
Actual: 1.2 miles in the morning.
From today, I learned: Turn off my watch at the end of the run. I had a slight failure here and realized I'd left it on for about five minutes while I was putting the dishes away.
I'm going back and re-reading my past weeks of training. In the beginning I talked a lot about nutrition as well as work outs, and then I had an unplanned failure in July and took that bullet point out. I'm liking going back and looking at that, and may want to add it back in for Flying Pig training.
Tuesday Planned: 4-6 Miles at MAF, Lift Weights
Actual: 4.66 Miles on the Rum River Trail. I've missed it here.
From today, I learned: This was a fun run. I didn't look at my watch. I practiced having positive thoughts like I'll need Saturday and Sunday. It felt great to be outside and enjoying nature. Fall colors are trying their hardest to come out.
Wednesday Planned: 1 Mile Run
Actual: 1.2 miles in the morning.
From today, I learned: I am legit wondering if 7pm is too early to go to bed. Taper means rest, right? I woke up with a massive headache. Ibuprofen is doing it's job so far though.
Thursday Planned:4-6 Miles at MAF, Lift Weights 1 Mile Run.
Actual: 1.2 Miles in the morning
From today, I learned: Not on my run, but later I learned the Buffalo Montrose trail has been paved. I've run there a time or two or three. It's always been a crushed limestone trail, and then used for snowmobiles in winter. I'm curious with the blacktop now if that'll make a difference for winter use. There's no way they're going to plow that thing all winter long. Right?
Friday Planned: 1 Mile Run
Actual: 1.2 Miles in the morning.
From today, I learned: Last night I swapped my winter and summer clothes. I have too many running clothes. I also have 50 pairs of sweat pants and I don't like many of them at all.
Saturday Planned: 4-6 Miles at MAF, Plyos 10K race, 5K race
Actual: 10K race and 5K race completed
From today, I learned: Trust my body; my body is stronger than my mind today.
Actual: 25 run, 2 walked
Long Run Miles Planned: 6-8
Actual:: 6.65 Miles on Sunday morning.
Actual:
Run: 6.65 Miles at Ft Snelling with a goal of having fun.
Kettlebells: Done, and a minute faster than last week
Abs: Also done.
Bonus 2.5 miles walk with Dungeon Master on the track at the gym.
From today, I learned: Normally I run, walk the last 5-10 minutes of the route back to the gym, and then do my weights/abs workout. Today I ran, cooled down, got in my car and drove to the gym, and then did weights/abs. My weights workout is rep based, and this week I got it done about 1 minute faster than last week, at the same reps and weights.
Monday Planned:
Actual: 1.2 miles in the morning.
From today, I learned: Turn off my watch at the end of the run. I had a slight failure here and realized I'd left it on for about five minutes while I was putting the dishes away.
I'm going back and re-reading my past weeks of training. In the beginning I talked a lot about nutrition as well as work outs, and then I had an unplanned failure in July and took that bullet point out. I'm liking going back and looking at that, and may want to add it back in for Flying Pig training.
Actual: 4.66 Miles on the Rum River Trail. I've missed it here.
From today, I learned: This was a fun run. I didn't look at my watch. I practiced having positive thoughts like I'll need Saturday and Sunday. It felt great to be outside and enjoying nature. Fall colors are trying their hardest to come out.
Wednesday Planned: 1 Mile Run
Actual: 1.2 miles in the morning.
From today, I learned: I am legit wondering if 7pm is too early to go to bed. Taper means rest, right? I woke up with a massive headache. Ibuprofen is doing it's job so far though.
Thursday Planned:
Actual: 1.2 Miles in the morning
From today, I learned: Not on my run, but later I learned the Buffalo Montrose trail has been paved. I've run there a time or two or three. It's always been a crushed limestone trail, and then used for snowmobiles in winter. I'm curious with the blacktop now if that'll make a difference for winter use. There's no way they're going to plow that thing all winter long. Right?
Friday Planned: 1 Mile Run
Actual: 1.2 Miles in the morning.
From today, I learned: Last night I swapped my winter and summer clothes. I have too many running clothes. I also have 50 pairs of sweat pants and I don't like many of them at all.
Actual: 10K race and 5K race completed
From today, I learned: Trust my body; my body is stronger than my mind today.
Whole30 Day 40
Pre workout and post workout meals: Pre-races I had 3/4 of an avocado, salted. Between races I had a banana and water. Post races I had hard boiled eggs wrapped in prosciutto. This is not a day to count calories.
Breakfast: Potatoes, scrambled eggs, bacon, coffee with cream. I cooked for me and Dungeon Master who completed her own race series today.
Lunch: Steak, ranch dressing, carrots.
Snacks: Smoothie of half and half, homemade almond milk, bananas, cocoa powde
Supper: Sauteed apples in butter, pecans, side of cheese.
Exercise: I raced the 10K and 5K of Loony Challenge today.
Shopping: No actually.
Cooking: Yes, breakfast, snack and supper
Dishes?: Yes also.
Thoughts: I did this for race training. I'd started out strong in June, went totally of the rails in July, and needed something strict to get me back on track for the tail end of training.
Adding dairy (no sugar added dairy like half and half and cheeses) was a good decision and made things more sustainable in the long run. It even added the option of a vegetarian meal from time to time.
No alcohol for an extended period of time is always a good idea.
I liked monitoring the carbs for a while. It helped me understand what was going on.
This past week, I added carbs back into my life, but I stuck to carbs I'd been eating in smaller amounts the whole time. So, lots of bananas, apples, potatoes and sweet potatoes. We'll see after tomorrow if that was a wise decision.
Tracking if I did my dishes was also helpful. I hate dishes and I particularly hate getting the grease off tupperware.
The blog posts were actually really helpful for holding myself accountable. They were also good reminders of when I needed to go shopping again, and a reminder that I can always stop by the co-op versus stopping by a restaurant.
Breakfast: Potatoes, scrambled eggs, bacon, coffee with cream. I cooked for me and Dungeon Master who completed her own race series today.
Lunch: Steak, ranch dressing, carrots.
Snacks: Smoothie of half and half, homemade almond milk, bananas, cocoa powde
Supper: Sauteed apples in butter, pecans, side of cheese.
Exercise: I raced the 10K and 5K of Loony Challenge today.
Shopping: No actually.
Cooking: Yes, breakfast, snack and supper
Dishes?: Yes also.
Thoughts: I did this for race training. I'd started out strong in June, went totally of the rails in July, and needed something strict to get me back on track for the tail end of training.
Adding dairy (no sugar added dairy like half and half and cheeses) was a good decision and made things more sustainable in the long run. It even added the option of a vegetarian meal from time to time.
No alcohol for an extended period of time is always a good idea.
I liked monitoring the carbs for a while. It helped me understand what was going on.
This past week, I added carbs back into my life, but I stuck to carbs I'd been eating in smaller amounts the whole time. So, lots of bananas, apples, potatoes and sweet potatoes. We'll see after tomorrow if that was a wise decision.
Tracking if I did my dishes was also helpful. I hate dishes and I particularly hate getting the grease off tupperware.
The blog posts were actually really helpful for holding myself accountable. They were also good reminders of when I needed to go shopping again, and a reminder that I can always stop by the co-op versus stopping by a restaurant.
Whole30 Day 39
Pre workout and post workout meals: Ha ha ha
Breakfast: Eggs, bacon, veggies from last night, chia seed pudding with fruit, coffee with cream
Lunch: Small salad, potato chips, fizzy water
Snacks: 'Shake' with bananas, homemade almond milk, cocoa powder, half and half
Supper: Pork chop with sautteed apples.
Exercise: Run 1 mile in the morning, try not to do too much walking at the expo
Shopping: Not for food. But did I mention the expo?
Cooking: Not really.
Dishes?: Yes. I waited to write this until they were down.
Thoughts: I'm realizing it's only one more day (plus Sunday morning) that I need to keep this going. And then I guess I get to go on a similar but slightly altered path, trying to slim down for a marathon.
Breakfast: Eggs, bacon, veggies from last night, chia seed pudding with fruit, coffee with cream
Lunch: Small salad, potato chips, fizzy water
Snacks: 'Shake' with bananas, homemade almond milk, cocoa powder, half and half
Supper: Pork chop with sautteed apples.
Exercise: Run 1 mile in the morning, try not to do too much walking at the expo
Shopping: Not for food. But did I mention the expo?
Cooking: Not really.
Dishes?: Yes. I waited to write this until they were down.
Thoughts: I'm realizing it's only one more day (plus Sunday morning) that I need to keep this going. And then I guess I get to go on a similar but slightly altered path, trying to slim down for a marathon.
Whole30 Day 38
Pre workout and post workout meals: LOL.
Breakfast: Hard boiled eggs wrapped in prosciutto; coffee with cream
Lunch: Steak with ranch dressing, carrots
Snacks: My post dinner 'snack' was a smoothie of homemade almond milk, half and half, banana, and cocoa powder
Supper: Sauteed mushrooms and green beans with pecans and cashews. A rare vegetarian meal for me.
Exercise: Run 1 mile in the morning.
Shopping: I had to go to the co op for half and half. I realize now I forgot to get more lime juice.
Cooking: Supper and my post supper snack
Dishes?:Probably not? Done.
Thoughts: I'm starting to 'carb load', a term I use here very loosely, for the races. I haven't had a ton of carbs in about a month. I'm adding back in only foods that I've eaten this month, so no rice or bread, but lots of potatoes and bananas and berries and apples.
Breakfast: Hard boiled eggs wrapped in prosciutto; coffee with cream
Lunch: Steak with ranch dressing, carrots
Snacks: My post dinner 'snack' was a smoothie of homemade almond milk, half and half, banana, and cocoa powder
Supper: Sauteed mushrooms and green beans with pecans and cashews. A rare vegetarian meal for me.
Exercise: Run 1 mile in the morning.
Shopping: I had to go to the co op for half and half. I realize now I forgot to get more lime juice.
Cooking: Supper and my post supper snack
Dishes?:
Thoughts: I'm starting to 'carb load', a term I use here very loosely, for the races. I haven't had a ton of carbs in about a month. I'm adding back in only foods that I've eaten this month, so no rice or bread, but lots of potatoes and bananas and berries and apples.
Whole30 Day 37
Pre workout and post workout meals: LOL.
Breakfast: Hard boiled eggs wrapped in prosciutto; coffee with cream
Lunch: Steak with ranch dressing, carrots
Snacks: Latte in the middle of the afternoon, and my first time using ApplePay on my phone. That was pretty slick. Chia seed pudding with berries.
Supper: I'm going to admit that I microwaved a couple pieces of bacon, and then later I made a smoothie of homemade almond milk, bananas, and almond butter.
Exercise: Run 1 mile in the morning.
Shopping: None.
Cooking: None.
Dishes?:Seems unlikely tonight. I am surprised to report that dishes were done tonight.
Thoughts: Ugh.
Breakfast: Hard boiled eggs wrapped in prosciutto; coffee with cream
Lunch: Steak with ranch dressing, carrots
Snacks: Latte in the middle of the afternoon, and my first time using ApplePay on my phone. That was pretty slick. Chia seed pudding with berries.
Supper: I'm going to admit that I microwaved a couple pieces of bacon, and then later I made a smoothie of homemade almond milk, bananas, and almond butter.
Exercise: Run 1 mile in the morning.
Shopping: None.
Cooking: None.
Dishes?:
Thoughts: Ugh.
Whole30 Day 36
Pre workout and post workout meals: None.
Breakfast: Hard boiled eggs in prosciutto; coffee with cream
Lunch: Steak, ranch dressing, carrots, bonus jicama becuase I had one container left over from last week and that stuff doesn't stay good forever.
Snacks: None. I probably would've had a pop after the run except I was freezing and not getting out of my car once I was in it.
Supper: Pork chop, sauteed apples. Mmmmm. It was so good.
Exercise: Run 4+ miles in the afternoon. Because let's be real. I aint getting up early this week.
Shopping: None.
Cooking: I actually made almond milk in addition to the pork chops. I have one left over pork chop for another night this week.
Dishes?: Yes. And after I did call about the dishwasher repair, I never got a call back, so I need to go to plan B.
Thoughts: I'm thinking about what this goal should be for Flying Pig Training. I can't really call it W30 anymore because, though that backbone exists, it's not the real thing. I also know I can't follow a super strict diet the entire 4 mos of training. I tried that this summer and it decidedly did not work. Maybe LCHF? And then have better and better ingredients and fewer 'cheats' as the race approaches? I do know the keeping the blogs of what I ate, how I planned my meals, etc, has been really helpful in keeping me accountable to myself. (And I try to publish them all at once so you can just skip right over them if it's not your thing.)
Breakfast: Hard boiled eggs in prosciutto; coffee with cream
Lunch: Steak, ranch dressing, carrots, bonus jicama becuase I had one container left over from last week and that stuff doesn't stay good forever.
Snacks: None. I probably would've had a pop after the run except I was freezing and not getting out of my car once I was in it.
Supper: Pork chop, sauteed apples. Mmmmm. It was so good.
Exercise: Run 4+ miles in the afternoon. Because let's be real. I aint getting up early this week.
Shopping: None.
Cooking: I actually made almond milk in addition to the pork chops. I have one left over pork chop for another night this week.
Dishes?: Yes. And after I did call about the dishwasher repair, I never got a call back, so I need to go to plan B.
Thoughts: I'm thinking about what this goal should be for Flying Pig Training. I can't really call it W30 anymore because, though that backbone exists, it's not the real thing. I also know I can't follow a super strict diet the entire 4 mos of training. I tried that this summer and it decidedly did not work. Maybe LCHF? And then have better and better ingredients and fewer 'cheats' as the race approaches? I do know the keeping the blogs of what I ate, how I planned my meals, etc, has been really helpful in keeping me accountable to myself. (And I try to publish them all at once so you can just skip right over them if it's not your thing.)
Whole30 Day 35
Pre workout and post workout meals: None
Breakfast: Chia seed pudding, coffee with cream
Lunch: Sautteed greens, bacon, 2 eggs.
Snacks: All of the fizzy water. Watch me hydrate
Supper: Small Punch Salad at Punch Pizza. I totally had the bread.
Exercise: Run 1 mile in the morning.
Shopping: Yes, I went to Costco and got some meat and other stuff (hello Almonds and two year supply of lotion) and I went to the co-op to get all the ingredients I like but don't get or can't find at Costco.
Cooking: A surprising amount actually.
Dishes?: Yes, not only are they done, but they are put away. That's one less thing for the morning.
Thoughts: I told My Pooky Bear and Qat Lady I was re-reading blog posts and came across this one where I had candy right as I was getting my period. That candy was like manna from heaven. That's exactly how I felt about a couple small pieces of bread tonight. I was feeling lousy and now, so much better and so much more full.
Breakfast: Chia seed pudding, coffee with cream
Lunch: Sautteed greens, bacon, 2 eggs.
Snacks: All of the fizzy water. Watch me hydrate
Supper: Small Punch Salad at Punch Pizza. I totally had the bread.
Exercise: Run 1 mile in the morning.
Shopping: Yes, I went to Costco and got some meat and other stuff (hello Almonds and two year supply of lotion) and I went to the co-op to get all the ingredients I like but don't get or can't find at Costco.
Cooking: A surprising amount actually.
- Broiled steak for lunches for the week
- Hard boiled eggs for breakfast for the week
- Currently soaking almonds for all the Almond milk smoothies I'm going to make this week
- Ranch dressing for lunches for the week
- Marinade for all the pork chops I got at Costco, and the pork chops are marinading.
Dishes?: Yes, not only are they done, but they are put away. That's one less thing for the morning.
Thoughts: I told My Pooky Bear and Qat Lady I was re-reading blog posts and came across this one where I had candy right as I was getting my period. That candy was like manna from heaven. That's exactly how I felt about a couple small pieces of bread tonight. I was feeling lousy and now, so much better and so much more full.
Whole30 Day 34
Pre workout and post workout meals: Keto fat bomb before the run, then things kind of went haywire.
Breakfast: First meal was chia seed pudding with raspberries, coffee with cream
Lunch: Eggs, bacon, potatoes
Snacks: Prosciutto roll up with cheese before a walk with Dungeon Master; later Jicama
Supper: Sausage, green beans and mushrooms. Thus ends leftovers that I'd made earlier in the week.
Exercise: Run 6.65 miles, Sunday weights, Sunday abs. Later, bonus walk with the Dungeon Master on the track while it rained.
Shopping: Yes, I went to the Farmer Market and bought all of the bacon.
Cooking: Not really.
Dishes?: Yes, done.
Thoughts: I'm writing this the day after because I was wore out last night. I am legit already planning my post 10-mile meal and celebration options.
Breakfast: First meal was chia seed pudding with raspberries, coffee with cream
Lunch: Eggs, bacon, potatoes
Snacks: Prosciutto roll up with cheese before a walk with Dungeon Master; later Jicama
Supper: Sausage, green beans and mushrooms. Thus ends leftovers that I'd made earlier in the week.
Exercise: Run 6.65 miles, Sunday weights, Sunday abs. Later, bonus walk with the Dungeon Master on the track while it rained.
Shopping: Yes, I went to the Farmer Market and bought all of the bacon.
Cooking: Not really.
Dishes?: Yes, done.
Thoughts: I'm writing this the day after because I was wore out last night. I am legit already planning my post 10-mile meal and celebration options.
Whole30 Day 33
Pre workout and post workout meals: None.
Breakfast: Potatoes, eggs, bacon. I haven't had many eggs this week. Coffee with cream.
Lunch: Sausage with a sauteed apple.
Snacks: None.
Supper: Pork chop (that I've been meaning to eat like all week) green beans, mushrooms. Mmmm.
Exercise: Run 3 miles in the morning. Enjoy the taper!
Shopping: No. I barely left my house today and it was glorious.
Cooking: I made chia seed pudding with the almond milk I'd made earlier in the week, in addition to the coconut milk. So, I had to use cross multiplication to figure out how much chia seeds to use for that amount of liquid. Thanks Algebra!
Dishes?: Yes. Let me tell you about ALL of the cleaning I did today.
Bathroom: Completely cleaned including the floor.
Laundry: Done and folded. Tomorrow may be the winter clothes switch day. I kind of ran out of steam today.
Refrigerator: Emptied, many things tossed in the compost, shelves wiped down, drawers washed out, food neatly organized and lovely.
Freezer: Emptied, a couple things tossed in compost, food neatly organized and lovely.
Dishes: Done a couple different times today.
Thoughts: I should go back and tag all of the posts where I call out high school math as something useful as an adult.
I hate washing tupperware. Have I said that on here before? It's forever greasy. I'm so over it.
Breakfast: Potatoes, eggs, bacon. I haven't had many eggs this week. Coffee with cream.
Lunch: Sausage with a sauteed apple.
Snacks: None.
Supper: Pork chop (that I've been meaning to eat like all week) green beans, mushrooms. Mmmm.
Exercise: Run 3 miles in the morning. Enjoy the taper!
Shopping: No. I barely left my house today and it was glorious.
Dishes?: Yes. Let me tell you about ALL of the cleaning I did today.
Bathroom: Completely cleaned including the floor.
Laundry: Done and folded. Tomorrow may be the winter clothes switch day. I kind of ran out of steam today.
Refrigerator: Emptied, many things tossed in the compost, shelves wiped down, drawers washed out, food neatly organized and lovely.
Freezer: Emptied, a couple things tossed in compost, food neatly organized and lovely.
Dishes: Done a couple different times today.
Thoughts: I should go back and tag all of the posts where I call out high school math as something useful as an adult.
I hate washing tupperware. Have I said that on here before? It's forever greasy. I'm so over it.
Whole30 Day 32
Pre workout and post workout meals: LOL
Breakfast: Chia seed pudding, coffee with cream
Lunch: Steak, cheese, bell peppers, jicama
Snacks: I had a latte (milk, no sugar) after work and it was the best thing ever
Supper: Soup of the day and fries, kombucha to drink. I ate at Tiny Diner with Olive.
Exercise: Run 1 mile in the morning.
Shopping: Yes, I was almost out of butter so I went to the co-op for that, SweeTango apples, and my latte.
Cooking: I'd meant to cook dinner, but hanging out with Olive was way better.
Dishes?: No. I can't get excited about tupperware. Sigh.
Thoughts: I'm at the point in this 'good diet' thing that I just want to be done with everything. Though, in my brain, I'm going to keep this up without a real break for a while. I've got another race in mid-October, and I want to be lean and healthy going into marathon training. We'll see.
Breakfast: Chia seed pudding, coffee with cream
Lunch: Steak, cheese, bell peppers, jicama
Snacks: I had a latte (milk, no sugar) after work and it was the best thing ever
Supper: Soup of the day and fries, kombucha to drink. I ate at Tiny Diner with Olive.
Exercise: Run 1 mile in the morning.
Shopping: Yes, I was almost out of butter so I went to the co-op for that, SweeTango apples, and my latte.
Cooking: I'd meant to cook dinner, but hanging out with Olive was way better.
Dishes?: No. I can't get excited about tupperware. Sigh.
Thoughts: I'm at the point in this 'good diet' thing that I just want to be done with everything. Though, in my brain, I'm going to keep this up without a real break for a while. I've got another race in mid-October, and I want to be lean and healthy going into marathon training. We'll see.
Whole30 Day 31
Pre workout and post workout meals: None.
Breakfast: Chia seed pudding; coffee with cream
Lunch: Steak, swiss cheese, jicama, bell peppers
Snacks: Well, my snacking sort of rolled into supper
Supper: Prosciutto with boursin cheese; artichokes, maybe an extra slide or two of prosciutto
Exercise: Run 4 miles, lift weights in the morning
Shopping: None, and I need butter so that'll have to happen tomorrow
Cooking: Artichokes for supper
Dishes?: Yes. From yesterday and today.
Thoughts: I burned my hand releasing the steam from my pressure cooker. I had a hot pad, but it was improperly placed for where the steam actually went. So that's my second burn of the week. Cooking is dangerous.
Breakfast: Chia seed pudding; coffee with cream
Lunch: Steak, swiss cheese, jicama, bell peppers
Snacks: Well, my snacking sort of rolled into supper
Supper: Prosciutto with boursin cheese; artichokes, maybe an extra slide or two of prosciutto
Exercise: Run 4 miles, lift weights in the morning
Shopping: None, and I need butter so that'll have to happen tomorrow
Cooking: Artichokes for supper
Dishes?: Yes. From yesterday and today.
Thoughts: I burned my hand releasing the steam from my pressure cooker. I had a hot pad, but it was improperly placed for where the steam actually went. So that's my second burn of the week. Cooking is dangerous.
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