Race Weekend Part 1

Sorry for the delay! I still don't have my home puter and have to sneak my blogs in between working :) So here it goes, Race Weekend in San Diego. Woo Hoo!

• Friday, 5 hr 30 min flight from LGA to SAN with TNT folks from NYC, Long Island and Connecticut Chapters. Learned that nationwide, TNT raised over $12 million for the event.
• Landed, went to the hotel with Lorraine and Heather, dropped of our bags and headed to the convention center to pick up our race packet.
• Bib #, d-tag, San Diego Rock & Roll t-shirt and goody-bag. Check.
• Convention center madness. Free samples of shot blocks, shot rocks, cliff bars, power bars, gu, and anything else protein, sugar, power related you can think of.
• Got suckered into buying a power balance band (http://www.powerbalance.com/). I figured if it was good enough for Lamar Odom and Shaq, it was good enough for me. More on that later.
• Met up with Angela from SD. Turns out she is childhood friends with one of our NYC TNT coaches. Small world.
• Lunch, last minute errands and sleep.
• Rise and shine Saturday morning for a quick 20 minute group run and stretch.
• Pool time and lunch with the girls.
• 5pm pasta party with other TNT chapters. OMG. So inspirational and what a tear-jerker hearing stories of why others joined TNT.
• Final team meeting to go over race day details with the coaches and more mission moments tear-jerker stories.
• I learned that some of the kids that run in the 10:30 miler group actually have hearts on the inside. Even if they appear to be complete a-holes on the outside :)
• Race day singlet decorating (Run Jen Run, Paws and Wings) and then off to bed.
• Wait a minute. It's only 9pm and I have to go to sleeeeezzzzzp. Obviously not an issue for me.
• Sunday: 3:15am alarm goes off. Time to eat a bagel, down some coconut water and poop.
• I can't believe the race if finally here!

Part 2 coming tomorrow. Can't wait to share the race details! xoxo

Interlude #4...the Day has Come!

50 posts and 47 runs later, I am in San Diego and am as prepared as I am ever going to be for my first half marathon. I want to thank all who have donated to the great LLS cause and supported me through my training.

Today we have a short 15 minute group run followed by a group stretch and last minute race day details. I will be relaxing by the hotel pool, reading and then eating lots of pasta tonight.

The race begins at 6:15 a.m. PT...I have a SoCal/San Diego contingent of friends here to cheer me on...so when they see#32582 coming their way, they can yell out "RUN JEN RUN".

I'll give you all the race details when I get back to NYC.

Run on Real Runner Girl, Run on! Your Day Has Come!
xoxo

Final Wednesday Night Group Run...

What am I going to do now on Wednesday nights? For the past 4 months it has been run, grab friends, eat and drink. sniff.

• Changed into my running clothes at work. Realized I forgot my running shoes. Eff.
• Luckily I keep an old spare pair under my desk. Ouch. Spare pair are size 6.5. Actual pairs are 7's and 8's. Oh well, still better than nothing.
• Got to practice. Heather, Lorraine and Noah were not there. Boo...but my awesome mentor Yasi was. YAY!
• It was a quick 30 minute run so I ran with Yasi in the park.
• Had coaches Q&A afterwards for last minute questions regarding race weekend.
• My only questions- will I have enough time to eat AND poop in the morning, and will I be hungry if I am at the starting line too long. These are very important things btw :)
• Went home after practice to pack.

San Diego here I come. I've followed my regimen, put in the work (see previous 40 something blogs). I am as prepared as I can be. I am going to Rock this Race :) xoxo Jen

Tuesday Morning on the UES

Run Jen Run was closed on Sunday in observance of Memorial Day. Actually, it was just super hot and I couldn't muster up the energy to run :) But I ran Tuesday!

• My friend Gaynell stayed with me Monday night. She passed on my healthy dinner concoction for chinese food. I get it. She's in SoCal now and there is a shortage of chinese food.
• She felt icky and asked if I wanted to run in the morning. Sure thing I said. 7 a.m. start.
• Woke-up, threw some clothes on and we were out the door.
• Walked over the foot bridge at 63rd and York onto the...East Side park? FDR park? Not really sure what it's called down there.
• Anyway, headed north. It was hot even at that hour and the sun was glaring. We saw two super huge boats pass through on the East River...Gaynell pondered out loud what we would do if we saw a body pop up :)
• It was a quick run because it's my taper week.
• Downed a glass of coconut water, hopped in the shower, told Gaynell I would see her in a few days in SD and off to work I went.

It was a nice way to start my day...running with a friend. Gaynell, 1. Jen, 1.

Last Long Run...

Same time, same place for the last 15 Saturdays. Central Park, Bethesda Terrace, 8:30 a.m..

• Runner girl ready. Gu, gatorade, calf guards, fuel belt, visor, shot block, body glide, garmin, inhaler...check.
• Running friends: Heather, Lorraine, check.
• Already a better start than last Saturday's solo run!
• 6 miles (one loop around the park)...I can handle that.
• And so we ran. I got a nice kick around mile 4.5. I signaled that I was going to run ahead, and off I went. Ahhhh. I haven't had a good running high in weeks.

Another great run...took a few minutes to stretch and then a great brunch with friends (cheese omelet and banana pancakes) yummmy. Now I get to taper my runs and eat more carbs. I can handle that. Run on Jen, Run on!

Interlude # 3

Today Rich and Ro had to put Rudy the cat to sleep :( It was a tough decision but in the best interest of their beloved cat. Here are some Rudy highlights:

• A deep love for tissue paper. He would carry it around in his mouth like a dog.
• Knocking things off of the kitchen table or counter...cups of water, pill bottles, etc.
• Sticking his paws under the faucet (while running) in the bathroom.
• Drinking water from the bathroom dixie cups.
• Eating any and all of Ro's plants, flowers and sometimes the dirt too.
• Chasing/Stalking/Pouncing on Meow (who significantly out-weighted Rudy) around the house and eating clumps of his hair.

Man, my race day singlet is getting heavy. Wings on my back for Ma and now paws for Rudy! I'll miss you little guy. xoxo

Heat Wave...burning in my shoes?

Last Wednesday was like 90 degrees all day and all night. And what does stupid runner girl do...well, run.

• Left work, headed north on the West Side highway...hrm. It's hot out here.
• Scared of having to pee again, I stopped drinking an hour or so before my run. hrm. It's like really hot out here.
• Run. Run. Run. OMG I think I may die. I think may brains may be oozing out of my ears. OMG. I think my asics treads have melted onto the West Side highway.
• Okay, I am exaggerating a tad, but it was hot. Like Africa hot.
• I had to stop and walk bc I was overheating, but I was determined to get my time in...so I ran walked for about 4 miles up and back.
• Treated myself to a nice, cool chocolate milk and a shower when I got back to work.
• Met up with my running friends and picked up my race day info and team singlet.

How do people train for the NYC marathon in the heat of summer? Hopefully I'll have to find out for next year, until then, 6 more days until SD. Run on hot flash, run on!

I Have to Pee!!!!

I guess I haven't had a bad run in a while, so the odds were in my favor. Last Saturday was hard, but it wasn't bad. Tuesday was just bad.

• It was warm out, so I made an effort to really hydrate. I had my 8 full glasses of water before the end of day.
• Problem was, I was peeing every 20 minutes, but whatever.
• Changed into my running gear and headed out.
• Started to run...and I had to pee. Okay. I can run through this...ugh. I still have to pee.
• I was on the West Side Highway heading south, with no bathroom in sight.
• I could not get the "I have to pee" thought out of my head...which does not help when just trying to run.
• There were some fine looking bushes to my right, and a mounted NYPD right behind me. Hrm. maybe not the best idea to pee in the bushes.
• So I cut my run short so I could go back to my office and pee. ahhhhhhhhh.

Stupid hydration tactics. Run on bladder girl, run on.

Running Solo...

Who wants to run alone? I am happy to do most things alone...bloomingdales, eat, wander...but running 12 miles alone? That's where I draw the line.

• But really, I had no choice. Running buds got back late from a business trip, so they were going to miss Saturday's group run.
• I had to give back the spirit cape (you only get it for a week) so I had to go.
• Maybe I will run with my mentor...she texted that morning and said she wasn't going to make it to practice.
• Maybe I will run with the blond girl that sometimes is in our pace group. No where to be found.
• Maybe I will stand here and cry...or maybe I will just suck it up and run alone.
• I enjoy running solo on short runs. Saturday was two 6 mile loops in Central Park.
• That meant 2 cat hills, 2 harlem hills and 2 rolling 3 in a row hills. blech.
• And so they called out for the 12 min group and I let out a huge WHOOOP! heh. I was the only one.
• So I started...I kept the 11:30s in sight, hoping to catch up, but they just kept getting farther and farther away.
• I caught up to a straggler...actually someone I am not a huge fan of, but it was better than nothing....until the straggler let out a yelp and stopped running. eff.
• Loop one. done. Loop two. Someone shoot me please. I don't know if it was difficult bc I didn't have my friends with me, but it was a tough run for me.
• I wanted to stop at mile 10 but I kept going. I didn't even get a kick of energy at the end. Nothing. Nada. Zilch. Zero.
• At least I saw a bicyclist flip over his handlebars bc a pedestrian got in his way.

And so I ran. 12 miles alone. Then I took the bus straight to the deli and inhaled a ham, egg & cheese on a roll. I'm proud of me. Less than 2 weeks to go. Run on.

Harlem Hill 2x WTF!

As promised, here are the wings I added to the spirit cape.

• Wednesday night training- tempo run (slightly faster than your easy pace, but not as hard as your marathon pace)...you should only be able to blurt out a few words, not sentences (i.e.: "WTF am I doing on this hill"!!!)
• Heather and Lorraine were in Newps, opening a new Elie Tahari store (I was kind of jealous).
• Yasi (my mentor) was on bag watch duty.
• Guess what that mean? Jen runs solo. Booooo.
• Started the run, I think I mis-fired my first inhaler hit, so my breathing was a bit rough.
• Ran the first upper look, was heading across 102nd for the second loop and guess who found me...
• Yup, flat leaver. Two days in a row. "hey, how are you today, how ya doing, what's new"...ugh...this is a tempo run, how are you speaking right now.
• Side note: flat leaver seems to be a nice person, with a good heart. I just don't like full conversations while running.
• So FL proceeded to tell me about the bad day/week he was having. As always, I nodded and smiled, and pretended to listen (I have a tendency to check out)...except he wouldn't let me! He kept checking me back in "are you following", "are you listening", "did you get that part"...ugh.
• Effing Harlem Hill was all I kept thinking about.
• Anyway, I survived it. Went for pizza afterwards with Noah and Yasi (my 2 favorite mentors) and then Ro showed up as a bonus :)

Run on *!&!!!$% runner, Run on!

Flat Leaver Take 2...

Sunday...no time for a recovery run...I had the super important role of godmother to baby James at his baptism!

• Monday- pilates. No running.
• Tuesday- blech. It's pouring rain, cold and windy. To run or not to run.
• Sitting at my desk debating this when my phone chimes. It's flat leaver texting me..."want to run tonight"..."maybe, more like a game time decision for me", I text back.
• "perfect, see you at 6pm. west side highway and 14th st". Hrm. What part of game time decision did he not understand.
• So like a big sucker I say yes. I am thankful for 2 things that day.
• 1. Google's head of security heard me whining about forgetting my hat, so he handed me his big, warm, fleecy hat, +5 to RR
• 2. Mike offered to run with me from 8th ave and 15th st to the west side highway, just to get me out the door. +5 Mike
• So I run across with Mike, get to 14th st and guess what? NO FLAT LEAVER. At this point, as the rain is pelting down, I am cursing and muttering for being so stupid as to make plans with a flat leaver....so I wait 5 minutes (rather generous amount of time to wait in the rain I thought) and started to run.
• As always, you forget about the rain...
• I went about 10 blocks and low and behold, who did I run into. Yup, F.L...."i'm so sorry, work kept me late"...blah blah blah. That's all I really heard after that.
• FL: "so what's going on, what's new, what have you been up to, how's work. what's going on, what's new, what have you been up to, how's work. we running 8 miles today. i need to run 8 miles today" blah blah blah.
• I know better than to run with company on my short runs. My answers "nothing, nothing, running, nothing, nothing, running, no, I only need to run 5 today".
• FL: "c'mon, meet me in the middle, run 6"...Me " did you go to practice on Saturday". FL: "no, I was hung over". Me "I went, even though I was sick, so I only need to do 5 today"...
• And so it went...

I made it back to 14th in one piece. I said my goodbyes. I ran back to the office where I took a nice hot shower and ate a nice free hot meal.

Rain, 0. Jen, 1. Flat Leaver, 0.5 (minus .5 for showing up late). Run on Jen, Run on!

Spirt Cape & Snotty Plaza Hotel Run

As mentioned, I was sick last week. I emailed my coaches and asked them if I should do the long run on Saturday, even though I felt like poop. Coach Michael said if it was just a head cold, yes, to take it easy and run through it.

• Saturday morning- alarm goes off. I feel okay. Not as bad as the day before, but still a tad bit crappy.
• Get dressed, get to the park and hang with my running mentor for a few.
• Coach Michael gets up to speak...announcements...Why is Yasi up there speaking. What! Me! Spirit Cape! No way! YAY!
• Spirit Cape: given each week to a different mentor or mentee for being, well awesome :) Okay, really Lorraine and Heather nominated me, which was awesome of them. The winner of the cape then takes it home, decorates it and gives it back the following week (pic to follow soon).
• Ran for 2 hours up the West Side highway. I had snot dripping down my face the entire time, but it felt good to get out and move, especially after not running all week.

Post-run treat...lunch at the Plaza! Well almost. Said in snooty maitre d voice: "Laaaadies, we have a dress code at the Plaazaaaa". Eff that. We had an awesome brunch at Fig & Olive instead...sweaty running clothes and all. Thanks to my running gals for nominating me and allowing me to stay at a nice, easy pace on Saturday. Run on Snot Head, Run On!

Interlude #2...

Monday night...hrm. My throat kinda hurts...

Tuesday morning...hrm. My nose is a bit stuffy...

Tuesday afternoon. hrm. I can't stop sneezing...

Tuesday night...eff, I have a cold.

Yes, even I, super elite athlete Jen, can succumb to the common cold :(

No running Monday - Friday last week.

Lots of vitamin C, juice and matzo ball soup :)

All better. aaaah.

Mother Runner...

The 12 mile run hit me hard. By late Saturday night I could barely lift my legs...my hip flexors were killing me!

• Happy Mother's Day. Wait, I am not a mother. I am a runner.
• Shoot, I signed up for the Mom's Day 4 miler weeks ago. Why did I think this was a good idea?
• Oh right. Sunday recovery run.
• Met Lorraine and Heather in Central Park. Dropped off my bag and headed to the start line.
• It was a crowded race. Lot's of moms on the course.
• Race started...my legs were like LEAD. They were so sore and so heavy, but I kept going.
• I passed an Italian woman who was grumbling about the hill. Her husband said to her "no parlare, io penso lo stesso"...basically "shut it woman, I am thinking the same thing" (thanks Ro for the translation help).
• I don't know how, but I managed to finish the race. It wasn't a personal best, but I did it.

I rewarded myself at the end with a bagel and a great Mother's Day brunch in Astoria with D and James :)

Bye Bye Mexico. Hola 12 Miles!

Got back from Mexico late Thursday night. Luckily I took Friday off, slammed some penne alla vodka that night and hoped that I was hydrated/fueled up enough to run.

• Saturday morning: woke up scratching. Stupid sun rash.
• Woke up peeling. Stupid sunburn.
• Actually, thankful I woke up bc my alarm didn't go off.
• Got to practice with like 2 minutes to spare.
• Ran from 72nd and Central Park, down the West Side highway to the financial district, and back up.
• It was super humid out...finished all of my gatorade by 3/4 of the way through.
• Tried shot blocks for my second fuel (instead of gu) to see if my tummy would react better...tummy okay, but shot blocks are super gummy and take a bit more effort to chew and swallow.
• It rained on and off but it felt refreshing bc of the humidity (side note: saucony moisture wick shorts and tank top dried off in like 3 minutes- it was awesome).

I definitely felt the 12 miles in my legs. I don't know if it was because I didn't get enough miles in while in Mexico...and I was STARVING like never before (slammed a ham, egg and cheese on a roll at the deli counter on my way home). Run on senorita, run on!

Run for the Hills (Part Duex)

Jen: it's Tuesday. I have to run again.

Lauren: great, let's do hills again.

Jen: shit, why is she so darn perky :)

• And so it went...hills again.
• Snail pace, same as the first. A little bit slower and a little bit worse.
• I don't know if it was the bowl of kashi I ate too soon before the run, the heat of Cabo or my heat rash flaring up, but this run was noooo es bueno.
• However, at the top of the hill, I waved Lauren on to keep going, so we ran outside of the resort into a slightly shady looking part of Cabo.
• As we turned to run back, my stomach did the now all too familiar slow roll and with it came my wave of nausea, potential poop incident and eff, I think I may faint.
• So I stopped running. I thing I needed freon because I was definitely overheated.
• I walked back. Lauren walked with me for a bit and I told her I would meet her at the bottom, so she ran.

Cabo San Lucas Hills at Pueblo Bonito, 1. Lauren, 2 (again, an extra point for both running and walking with me). Jen, 0. Maybe the corona lights were not the ideal hydration drink :)

Run for the Hills!

Jen: so the beach didn't work out so well
Lauren: yeah, I know
Jen: so I still have to run
Lauren: yeah, I know
Jen: our only choice are the hills on the resort
Lauren: cool, I'll run with you
Jen: shit, I was hoping she would say no so I wouldn't have to do it too :)

• and so it went. Lauren and Jen ran for the hills
  
• Our resort in Cabo was built into a hillside. When you first enter you drive about 1.5 miles down a windy hill. Lauren and I decided to run up it (again, to the amazement of the resort staff).
• Okay, we'll run/walk it if we have to...and honestly, we ran the majority of the time.
• It was hot, it was an impossibly hard hill, but we did it!
• When I got to the top and it leveled off a bit, I wanted to keep going, but it was super hot out and I didn't want to over do-it.
• The run back was awesome because it was all downhill. "go, go, go" shouted the hotel staff as the drove by us in golf carts (the method of transportation the sane vacationers used).
• The run turned out to be a little over 2.5 miles. It was difficult but rewarding when we finished.

Hills, 0. Jen 1. Lauren 2 (I gave her an extra point bc she is not training for a half and had no reason other than friendship to run the hills with me) :) Run on inclined runner, run on!

Run for the Border!

No, no, no. I am not talking about Arizona's new law. I've been in Mexico for the last week (Cabo to be exact)...and let me tell you, I hyped up my weekend runs to Lauren. Lauren, I have to run 8 miles on Saturday. Lauren, I have to run 5 miles on Sunday. Lauren, I have to run 5 miles on Tuesday. She should have just shoved a taco in my mouth and told me to shut it!

• Saturday morning in Cabo. Sunny and windy. Not bad weather for a beach run.
• I gear up. I feel like a running wonder as the Mexican hotel staff stares at me in amazement (I wonder where that woman in braided pig tails, calf guards, visor, big running watch and foot pod thinks she is going, this is Cabo chica, not the olympics).
• Sigh. If only I had know. Lauren and I hit the beach and it was like quick sand with every step. Run, sink. Run, sink. Run, Sink (you get the point).
  
• Note to self, there is no hard running sand in Cabo like there is in Florida.
• It's okay I said, let's keep going and we'll try our best.
• Did I mention the wind? The 35 mph winds? Sand and 35 mph winds do not mix well. Ouch, what is that on my face. Ouch,what is that on my legs. Ouch, I am being pelted really hard by sand. Hrm. On a lighter note, it's cheaper than micro-dermabrasion...
  
• So we ended up run walking about 1.5 miles. Hey, I was only 6.5 short of my goal. That's not too bad right?
• Thank you Lauren for being a trooper!

Sand, Waves, Mexican Hotel Staff 1. Gringo Jen, 0.

Second 5k Challenge

First TNT 5k challenge was about 6 weeks ago. Second one was last Wednesday. Major error on my part: I had a few too many Pimms Cups on Tuesday night and forgot for a few hours that I am a runner, not a drinker. Blech.

• Went to work slightly hung over, but powered through.
• Met the TNT crew in Central Park. We did a warm up run and I thought I was going to die. My legs were like lead and I had nothing in me.
• 5k. Up the 3 evil hills starting at 101st and CPW, down to 72nd and up cat hill. boo HISS!
• We were told to run HARD. Even my warm up was hard after those darn Pimms....
• So I started with Heather and Lorraine and then I took off. Lorraine summed it up nicely, she said "Jen, I saw you take off and knew you were running to get it over with". She was right.
• I ran. I tried to breath. I ran some more. I am a whiner, not a quitter. I thought I was going to vomit from lack of air. It's an odd feeling. If you don't know what I am talking about, I recommend you all try it some time. Just run for fun, as fast as you can. And when you feel like you need to stop, don't. Keep going. You'll get the feeling.
• The most awesome part...I shaved over 3 minutes off of my time from the first 5k challenge.
• Woo hoo! Thank you inhaler, Heather and Lorraine :)

Pimms, 0. Jen, 1. Stop whining little one and run on.

Morning Run

Back from Mexico and a few too many runs behind...

Was supposed to do a recovery run last Sunday after the two bridges, but when I woke up it was cold and rainy and I couldn't find the motivation.

• Monday is my day off from running, so I ran last Tuesday morning...
• The usual morning run down the west side highway from 70th and west end to work.
• It was a good run. I think I need to start running more like 5 miles on my easy runs, not 3.5ish...so I will have to find a way to add the extra mileage (yes Mike, I know I can run the avenues from my apartment) :)
  
• It was a good run. I have done it so many times now, I know the landmarks (NY Dept of Sanitation...STINKY, Mounter NYPD Station...STINKY...Intrepid...I really want to go there)...etc etc.

Look for more fun, diverse morning runs coming soon!

Double By-Pass

What is that you ask? It's the name of a run that includes two awesome bridges!

• Saturday morning: I am geared up and ready to go. Hair in braided pigtails, calf guards on, shorts, visor, fuel belt with gatorade and gu. I look like a running freak, for sure.
• Meet TNT peeps at Finish Line physical therapy at 8:30 am.
• I end up in the elevator with 7 guys. I remark "it's my lucky day". They take one look at the dorky girl in braid and calf guards (next time I will wear my retainer too) and they look away. Ha. Good morning to you all as well...bitches.
• I spot Heather and Lorraine. Whew. Too big of a run to do solo.
• We get our pep talk, directions and head out the door.
• I got my garmin, I am the fearless pace leader. Let's go!
• This run was AMAZING. I know I say that alot, but it really was.
• We started out running across 23rd street to the west side highway.
• Down the west side highway (it was sunny, cars were whizzing by, flowers and trees were in bloom and the hudson stench stayed low)... coaches Michael and Steve ran by and said "hi Jen" (swoon...maybe it's the pig tails) :)
• Head left at Chambers street, just in time to Gu. Yummmy. Had to dodge some crowds and tourists, but not too horrible.
• Next move- over the Brooklyn bridge. I've driven over but never on foot. There was a pretty decent uphill (all on wooden slats) but both the view and the bridge is breathtaking.
• Bridge: intricate series of cables and steel. View: statue of liberty, circle line & south street sea port.
• Ran over the bridge, made two quick lefts and we were on the Manhattan bridge.
• Manhattan bridge reminded me alot of the 59th st (my favorite bridge). Traffic and subways whizzing by, a steady uphill that levels out and then a nice downhill
• End of the bridge, right on Bowery, past Canal street into the heart of china town. Mmmm. Stinky fish smell at 10am (my favorite, ask my parents about that). Streets were super crowded and we were out of place for sure (have I mentioned my braids)?
• Right on Delancey, time for Gu 2...wow, Delancey is a long as street. Hrm. brrrt. Excuse me. Tummy feels funny, You girls (brrrttt) run ahead. I'll be okay. Oh no, oh no. Gu hit me hard. I may have to poop...except there is nothing around here...hrm. I guess behind that mini van will do!
• Whew. Thankfully I slowed down and my tummy settled. Poop incident avoided.
• Ran parallel to the Willamsburg bridge, up the stairs, over the FDR and onto the east side...
• I've only run east side way up...down was amazingly pretty as well. Lot's of people out running, setting up bbq's, etc.
• Ran to 23rd street, made a left and headed back to 23rd and 6th. I stopped at 23rd and B'way bc my watch told me we had gone 11.3 miles, which was good enough for me for the day.
• Back to finish line, ate a bagel, hydrated with a bloody mary, hung out with my friends, flirted with the cute coaches, and out.

Sooo tired, but a very inspiring run. Run on Pigtail, Braids, Calf Guards Girl, Run on!

Running to a Halt

After my race last week, I will admit, I was a bit sluggish about running.

• Monday: dedicated pilates day. No run.
• Tuesday: was supposed to run after work, but it was cold, windy and started to rain. No run.
• Wednesday: group training in Central Park, but it was cold, windy and started to rain. No run (see the trend here). I also promised Lorraine and Heather I would help out at their fundraising happy hour. It turned out to be so much fun. Bud lite 1, run 0.
• Thursday: it was cold-ish, windy and rainy. I sluggishly went over to Mike and Cupcake's desk and told them to convince me to run. Mike ran Boston on Monday. He was limping and was like- it's so great outside, I wish I could run right now. Go run. So I did (thanks Mike) :)
• Run was AMAZING. I did my usual 4 miles on the westside highway (2 up, 2 back)
• This time, however, I had my snazzy new Garmin watch (I had it for my race last Sunday but couldn't figure out how to use it).
• I knew my legs felt good and my stride was perkier than usual...but it wasn't until my watch told me I was running 11:30 min miles that I believed it!
• My weeks and weeks of training finally kicked in. I showed real running improvement!

Garmin 1. Run 1. Jen's improved running 1. It's a win win for all! Run on improved Jen, run on!

Another Sunday Raceday...

10 miles on Saturday. 4 Miles on Sunday (8am race) = a very tired weekend Jen.

• One of my friends just asked me where beer drinking, wing eating Jen went...she's still around I said, but only comes out to play once every few weeks now.
• Sunday's race was the usual 4 miler in the park. Same route...start at 72nd st, up cat hill, cross 102, down the west side and back over to 72.
• The difference this time was that my legs almost remembered the hills that I ran in the park the day before, which allowed my mind to forget them. So I just ran.
• It felt great. I shaved another few seconds off of my time...got a bagel and 2 free containers of Zico coconut water at the end (a good $8 worth) :)
• I was in such a daze that I somehow managed to exit the park at 59th st instead of 72nd...
• Hopped on a bus (all I had were my keys and a metrocard).
• Went home, did laundry (running = lots of dirty stinky clothes), took a shower and a nice long nap....zzzzzzz

Ahhhh. A rather nice relaxing Sunday if I do say so myself. Run on 4 mile Jen. Run on.

Interlude...

In the words of Jack Johnson:

It's as simple as something that nobody knows that her eyes are as big

as her bubbly toes

on the feet of a queen of the hearts of the cards and her feet are all

covered with tar balls and scars...

He must have had me in mind when he wrote that song...Oh the woes of running. My feet are not going to be flip-flop "summer ready" for a very long time.

Calluses, blisters, and bubbles, oh my.

Run on ugly toes, run on!

Running in Circles

Literally. Saturday in Central Park. 10 miles. Two 5 mile loops (one upper, one lower).

• Cat Hill 2x (named that bc of the big statue of a black panther that sits on a rock).
• Harlem Hill 1x (I don't think I could do it twice). Named bc it's located at the top of the park at 110th street.
• The 3 hills between 102nd st & 85th st: 2x.
• Good thing I practiced hills Wednesday night.
• Legs started out heavy as usual, but warmed up around mile 4 (a bit sad that it takes me that long to warm up).
• Lots of gatorade and gu kept us all going.
• Gu kicked in the last mile or so and I got that great feeling again.
• My back straightened up slightly and my legs just started to go. Felt so good!
• Yummy brunch afterwards at Uptown Lounge with my running crew and mentors.

Run on Straight runner, run on.

Wednesday Night Hills

Unfortunately for me, running isn't always flat, and it isn't always slow (unless I move to a sleepy senior town in Florida).

• Wednesday night Central Park- the hill near Lasker pool.
• Group assignment- run up it as fast as you can, over the crest, while maintaining the same amount of effort.
• Run hard we were told. Breathing should be hard. Welcome to my world asswipes- my breathing is always hard.
• Whatever. Running friends were busy so I ran with my TNT mentor, Yasi.
• While extremely motivating, she kicked my ASS on the hills (and she is a run walker).
• Whew. I think I may throw up. Oh, I said it outloud. Oh, Coach Michael said if you throw up once, he takes you off the hills. I wonder if he'll notice me running with 2 fingers down my throat!
• I was SO close to puking. SO close (it's the awesome feeling you get when trying to run too fast and breath at the same time).
• Didn't happen. I didn't get out of the hill workout.

A few runs behind as always but trying to post them soon. Run on pukey pants, run on.

Sunday Raceday

As I've mentioned before, I now have to run 4-5 mile recovery runs on Sundays. I am also part of NYRR and need to run 8 races this year to qualify for the NYC marathon next year. So I have been combining my Sunday recovery runs with NYRR Sunday 4 mile races. I am SO efficient.

• Problem is, I hate racing.
• Other problem is, the 4 miles course is the same each week. Cat hill the first mile, somewhat flat the second mile, then 3 evil freaking hills the third mile, then downhill.
• ANOTHER problem is, I am not a fast runner. I am not a racer. I think I am more endurance and distance, at a nice, easy pace.
• All these runners start out, they push, they shove, they zig zag...and then they reach the hills and they walk. Sooooo tempting to run by and make faces or mean comments. But I don't (I need to save my air for more important things, like breathing).
• So I ran my race. Yvette, Geline and Mike were there to cheer me on at the end.
• I got a little over-zealous towards the end as I picked up my pace to cross the finish line.
• I realized I was going too fast, but I was so close, I couldn't slow down.
• My stomach did I huge roll over and I didn't know if I was going to throw up or poop my pants. I kept going.
• Luckily, neither happened.
• I walked it off, ate a bagel and some water and felt better.

Run on poopy pants, run on.

Running the State(s)

So one of the coolest things I have discovered about running is that well, I can run places. I don't have to take the subway or have a car, I can just run. Admittedly, I've only tried this running from my apartment to my sister's apartment in Jackson Heights. But still, it worked.

• Saturday 8:30 am run
• Standing at the foot of the ramp to the GW Bridge.
• It was COLD. Wind blowing, no sun. I knew I layered correctly for the run, I just had to get moving.
• Coaches told us where to go and we were off.
• Ran over the GW. Super windy but a nice flat run and an amazing view.
• Ran down a huge hill (shit, I am going to have to run up that hill on the way back).
• Ran through Fort Lee and Englewood and into Palisades Park.
• It started to warm up. The park was gorgeous. Cliffs on one side, the Hudson river down below.
• We ran by time, so Heather, Lorraine and I turned around at the 45 minute mark (after some Gu and gatorade).
• I started to run up the big hill but had to stop and walk. Hills really really kill me. Probably more mental than physical, but I hate them.
• So made it up the hill, started running again, got to the GW and the GU kicked in (a bit later than last time).
• All of a sudden, I was flying. My legs felt so light and were going so fast. I was having a hard time catching my breath, but it felt so good, I didn't want to stop.
• So I kept going until the end. My friends were a few minutes behind and caught up in time to stretch.
• We had an amazing breakfast at Malecon (176 and Bway). $19 total for 3 of us.

OMG. I think I experienced my first runner's high and I loved it. Now I have something else to chase after (instead of boys) :) I am amazed that I ran from NY to NJ and back. Run on state runner, run on.

Central Park Hills and Heat

Liquor before beer, in the clear. Beer before liquor, never sicker...

Central Park's cat hill and humidity. Never sicker.

• Wednesday was the most summer-like day we've had yet.
• I woke up slightly headachey and took 3 advil on an empty stomach. Not a good move.
• Stomach was burning all day and I just felt out of sorts.
• Decided to attempt my group hill run anyway.
• I had nothing in me. Nothing (except some leftover gas from lunch and even that didn't even help to propel me up the hill) :)
• Talk about a bad running day...this was my worst yet.
• Positive side: met my running friends in the park and we had yummy mexican food afterwards and margaritas the size of my head.
• Oh, and there was no sign of the flat leaver :)

I get to try again next Wednesday. Run on flat runner, run on.

Spring Run

So the weather last week was amazing and I tried to take advantage of it.

• Decided to run Riverside Park- 4 miles (2 up, 2 back).
• It was warm with a slight breeze. Good day for running.
• Path was crowded, apparently everyone had the same idea as me.
• I love how when the weather starts to warm up, guys immediately run shirtless.
• I tried running after a few of them, but they were too fast. Or scared :)
• It was a really nice run and I got to see an amazing sunset over the Hudson/NJ on my way back.

NJ is like a not so pretty date...when the light hits it a certain way, it can be pretty :)

Bunny Hop

Still a few blogs behind so short and sweet:

We were "strongly encouraged" by our TNT coaches to add Sunday Funday Recovery 4-5 mile runs into the mix (since when is a 4-5 mile run considered recovery). So after my 8 miler last Saturday and some ice (back and left calf), I went to sleep :)

• Woke up at 7:30 am on Easter Sunday, ate some graham crackers and water (sounds a bit like prison) and took off running.
• I ran from my apt on the UES, over my favorite bridge (59th street), up Northern Blvd, to my sister's apartment in Jackson Heights.
• Interesting note: there were no other runners on Northern Blvd (maybe no one runs in Queens unless being chased).
• Got to D & Mark's apartment, had my second breakfast (I am beginning to eat like a hobbit), showered, took the boo-boo kitty ice pack and headed upstate for Easter.

Run felt pretty good. I enjoy running to a destination. Maybe I will start a group for that. Destination Runs. I like the sound of it.

8 Mile

and not the Eminem soundtrack :)

• 8 miles. That is the farthest I have EVER run.
• Met my TNT group in the park last Saturday. It was gorgeous out.
• Ran from the 72nd St traverse, across the west side to Riverside park, down to 14th street and back up again.
• GU: if you don't know what it is, look it up. Vanilla bean is AMAZING. It's like eating pure cake batter. Not more than 3 minutes later Lorraine and I were cruising. I don't know what they put in it, but me likey.
• Downfall: running back up the stairs at 72nd and RS Park. Um, ew. Who put stairs there.
• Overall, it was an amazing run. Felt great afterward.
• Treated ourselves to omelettes and french fries at the Boathouse. Yummm.

Run on Jen, Run on...

Asthma & Flat Left on a Hill!

Still catching up from last week....I'll try to be brief.

• Had my cardio fit test on Tuesday (have I mentioned that I can't breathe when I run).
• Got diagnosed with exercise induced asthma. Got an inhaler.
• Not upset about the above...actually more excited at the prospect of being able to breathe while running.
• Had group training on Wednesdays. Learning to run hills in Central Park.
• Got there late. Missed the group. Debated leaving or running the reservoir loop 2x.
• I was wearing my TNT shirt. Some guy was like- hey, TNT, I know where they went, follow me.
• I was like, I run slow. He said no worries, I'll stay with you.
• We got to cat hill. No TNT group, but other late random TNT peeps (later learned they ran Harlem Hill)
• Mr "I'll stay with you" paired up with another chick who ran at his speed and flat left me on the hill. WTF.
• Whatever. I ran up and down the stupid hill 5x.
• Met up with the rest of the group in time to stretch and ran into my mentor friend Noah.
• Went to happy hour with Noah & team and had chicken fingers and waffle fries. Mmmm. Hit the spot.

Okay, so I know to be on time next time and not to run with random boys who will leave me on the stupid hills.

Can't....Breathe...

Sorry, I am a bit behind, but I am still running :) In fact I ran the NYRR Colon Cancer 4 miler last Sunday and it was effing cold.

• It was in the low 40's but felt like 36 I think. I HATE running in the cold and thought I was done with it for the season. Guess not.
• Met my friend Yvette (who was hiding in a coffee shop) and walked to Central Park.
• Checked our bags and met up with our manager, who was running too.
• We all headed towards the start line and of course, our bib numbers were different colors. 
• I subtly tried to look at my manager's bib. Unsuccessful so I just blurted out "what's your time". He's like a 7 minute mile, so he left us.
• Yvette ran with me for like 2 minutes, but she is under a 10 minute mile, so she left me :) (I told her it was okay)
• So here I was, running another race solo, being passed by 85 year old speed walkers.
• I pushed myself because, well, it's a race :) 
• I couldn't catch my breath the ENTIRE time. It's like I was running out of breath and winded. NOT a fun feeling.
• I was looking forward to the finish line. Baby James, D and Mark were there to cheer me on.
• I beat my total time by over 2 minutes from my last 4 mile race and got my pace down from a 12:40 to 12:05 minute mile.
• It felt good afterwards. Had an amazing brunch with friends and family and hit Bloomingdales afterwards (an AWESOME post race treat).

Lot's more to come...I am just like 3 blogs behind right now. Keep reading! Run on Winded one, run on.

Blood Run...

Last week was definitely a tough running week for me. It started out great on Monday and went downhill after that.

• I decided to donate blood at work on Wednesday. Seemed like the cool thing to do and all.
• I have really small veins so I am always weary of people yielding needles (thankfully I am not afraid of the actual needle).
• What I am afraid of is a phlebotomist who stares at my arms perplexed...as this woman did.
• No worries, she said, I'll go right. Right! No one ever goes right. The good vein is left. Left I say LEFT!
• Nope. She went right. She stuck the needle in as I watched and nothing happened. And in slow motion I moved my gaze from my arm until I was staring her dead in the eyes. She looked at me, wiggled the needle and finally blood came out. She knew I was on the verge of leaving her chair (she knew because I told her).
• So other donors came and went and my little veins were working overtime to fill the contents of the bag.
• There is a point to this.
• I decided to run to work the next morning. I figured my body would have regenerated enough blood overnight.
• I felt fine when I woke up except for a slightly sore arm with a bruise (if I ever see that phelegmotomist again) :)
• So I did my usual bus across town, down the stairs to Riverside Park.
• I started to run and right away I knew I didn't have it in me...but as always, I was determined to keep trying.
• Run Jen, Run. Don't stop. You can do it. Blah blah blah. 
• Next thing I knew, my mind was still running but my legs had stopped. Eff. I had only gone a mile and there was nothing I could do to get myself going again. So annoying. 
• I walked the rest of the way to work and felt really lame about it.
• I totally blame it on the blood. Now I know not to donate before my big race :)

I just got my April schedule and everything is kicked up a notch. Easy runs are now 4 mile runs (Luckily for D and Mark my apt to their apt is just over 4 miles)...Saturday runs are going 8, 9 and 10 miles...with strength training on my off running days...6 days a week from this point on. Run like the wind little one.

Running Through My Mind...

Some people run to lose weight. Others run to feel the rush of endorphins.  Some run when they've had a bad day...in general, I run to get to the end. My last 2 runs however, were different.

• Saturday, I did my group run up the Westside highway. It wasn't about mileage, it was about time. Beginners (yes, that's me), had to run 80 minutes.
• I was nervous because I didn't see my 2 running friends at first and though, ugh, 80 minutes with just me and my brain (it was a rough few days, I was afraid what was going to come out).
• Luckily I spotted them last minute and we had a really good run. The sun was shining and warm. It seemed as though we were all in the same frame of mind...minimal talking and just running.
• I rewarded myself with a chocolate milk and pb&j bagel at the end.
• I decided to run Monday in the rain as well. I knew if I didn't get out I was going to sit in my apartment all day and sleep. And after what felt like days of being in the car, I needed fresh air.
• So pouring rain and all, I decided to run to Jackson Heights to see my family (my dad apparently wasn't too happy about me either running in the rain or through Queens)?
• I tried this run almost a year ago. I had made it 2 feet onto the 59th street bridge and realized it was um...uphill. After walking the bridge and running to 36th street and Northern Blvd, I pulled out my metro card and hopped the R train the rest of the way.
• This time around I knew there would be a hill, and after running the hills in Central Park, I thought I could take the bridge, and I was right.
• After 3 minutes, I didn't feel the rain at all. I just felt me, the ground and the puddles.
• It was such a great run. It allowed me to think and clear my head. 
• When I got to my sister's apartment, I was soaking wet and my face bright red, but I felt amazing.
• 4.15ish miles and 50ish minutes later, I had completed the Queens run that last year had gotten the best of me.

Maybe this running thing is actually good for me. I think I'll keep it up :)

In the Long Run..

I am a few days behind in my blog, but not my running (I don't want anyone to think I've been slacking). 

• I ran my usual Upper West side down Riverside Park to work route on Tuesday. I added extra mileage by running from the river to 9th avenue (I usually take those avenues to cool down).
• Tomorrow I am running for 80 to 90 minutes. Apparently now Saturday runs are about time, not distance. 
• Tomorrow however, I will be running with a heavy heart.
• My grandma passed away yesterday and the funeral was today.
• I have only the fondest and best memories of Ma.
• In some ways she was the quintessential Italian grandma. She was always telling me to "mangia, mangia" (she was also the only one who used to tell me I was too skinny) :)
• She always had my favorite dish (pasta con funghi) waiting for me (I could smell it down the block), and if I didn't eat at least 3 bowls, she was insulted or convinced it hadn't come out right.
• For those who know me well, they know I love eating with small utensils. lol. I got this from my grandma who used to serve me pudding in little glass cups with little spoons from Alitalia (I never asked how these spoons made their way into her silverware drawer).
• Up until the very end, whenever I would visit Ma and leave, we would exchange "I love you's" and she would say "don't forget, Nonna loves you".
• I will never forget you Ma, or that you loved each and every one of us.
• I know that she  is now with Nonno, the snoopy(s), her parents and grandparents. I am convinced that they waited for a beautiful sunny day to come and take her.

Tomorrow I run with a heavy heart, but wings on my feet.

I'm Running In the Rain...

Just running in the rain...What a glorious feeling, I'm happy again...

Saturday morning, 9am: wind blowing, windows rattling, rain coming down hard, a groggy Jen opens one eye and thinks, this is soooo stupid. Yet I get out of bed, eat a bagel, get dressed and head out for my 6 mile run in the rain.

• I took the crosstown bus to the park. As I was walking a gust of wind blew my hat off my head and into dirty gutter water. Blech.
• Got to the park seconds behind my running friends. I was so happy to see them. 6 miles alone is hard enough. Let alone 6 miles in a rain storm.
• We ran the outer loop in Central Park. After the first 5 minutes or so, I didn't even notice the rain.
• It was a pretty decent run actually...until I stopped. Then I realized I was soaking wet and freezing cold.

Oh well. I survived and felt good about it afterwards. Run on Jen, run on.

3.5K Wednesday

Ended up skipping italian class last night (had to finalize upcoming vacation plans...more on that soon)...and met TNT in Central Park for the 5k challenge.

• I was so relieved when I spotted Heather & Lorraine, my new running buddies (running solo in a group of 300 or so people is not fun).
• Total run was 4ish miles. First mile was a warm up, the rest was a race to determine our pace baseline.
• We were told to run hard and challenge ourselves.
• I ran as fast as I could while still maintaining the flow of oxygen in my body :)
• My time was 36:15...a tad bit over a 12 minute mile. A definite improvement over my 4  miler 12:45 pace the other weekend.
• I felt good afterwards. We stopped at a bar and I had a tall drink of water. mmmm

Saturday is 6 miles in what is supposed to be a torrential rainstorm. Yay. Can't wait.

Jen vs Riverside Park: Take 2

So I woke up early Tuesday morning, slammed 3/4 of a whole wheat bagel and hopped on the m66 crosstown.  

• My run started off much better this time around.
• I was prepared this time by bringing clothes into work the day before, so I didn't have to run with a backpack.
• I didn't try to hitch a ride with any cops on horses and I didn't have to stop to walk.
• I played around with my arm swing and trying to run more upright (Yvette said I looked like the letter "c" at my desk the other day bc I was so slumped over).
• Me and my Harry Potter streak made it to my desk at 8:55am.
• I showered, changed and grabbed 2 pancakes.

Jen 1, Riverside Park, 0. Any excuse to have both a bagel AND pancakes in the same morning, priceless.

xoxo,

j

5 Mile Saturday

It's been a long weekend, so not too much to say here, but I'll try.

• Is it wrong that I took a cab to Central Park on Saturday morning for my 9am group run?
• Met up with the team in training folks and we broke out into pace groups. My slow group didn't have a leader, so we had to push and pace ourselves.
• I met 2 new friends in my group: Lorraine and Heather (thanks for running with and encouraging me).
• We ran 5 miles. As always, it felt hard while I was running it, but it felt great afterwards. 

I may attempt to run to work again on Tuesday. Stay tuned.

xoxo

Jen

Egg McMuffins & Speed

I missed my group run on Wednesday night because I have 3 weeks left of italian class. The run was all about speed, so I decided to tackle it last night on the treadmill.

• I had to run 10 minutes easy, and then pretty hard for 1/4 mile, the cool down for 1/4 of a mile.
• rinse and repeat above 4 - 6 times
• I wonder if there is exercise induced asthma? running fast = out of breath Jen
• It was hard. I really pushed myself. as usual though while running, I smelled something funny.
• Again, it was me. Apparently now when I run, the sweat that radiates off my my head smells like an egg McMuffin...
• Maybe it's time to wash my hair more than once a week.
• I told my friend Lauren about my new smell later that night at dinner. She made a funny face...maybe I should keep that fact to myself.

Run on muffin head, run on.

Keep reading and donating.

Love,

Jen

Riverside Park 1, Jen 0

So yesterday morning I woke up and I decided it would be a good idea to take the m66 crosstown bus and run from w.66th and Riverside park down to my office on 9th ave and 16th st. I ran 4 miles on Sunday, I can handle 2.5 flat miles to work. Um. What was I thinking???

• I woke up and saw that it was kind of grey-ish looking out
• Drank my protein shake, threw my running clothes on that I had laid out the night before and 86 stairs later, I was outside
• Hrm...it's kind of raining, snowing right now. No fear! I have my new weather tolerant running jacket.
• Hopped on the bus- slightly amazed at how many people are up and going to work at 7:45am. (doesn't everyone get in after 9, like me)?
• Got to the park, descended the stairs and started to run...I had a light bag with me because I had to shower/change at work.
• For future reference: running with a light backpack, no matter how light, is really really cumbersome. It swings from side to side, it falls off your shoulders. stupid.
• So after 5 minutes of shifting, peeling off layers, trying to balance my backpack, snow and rain in my eyes, I realized this was a horrible idea...and I was only at 56th street
• I police man on a horse rode by and said good morning. He mistook my hitch-hiker thumb for a thumbs up. I am not above riding a horse to work.
• So for the next what seemed like hours, I ran and walked my way to work
• Amazingly, I made it in a bit before 9am- quicker than the subway

New weather tolerant running jacket, 1 (it kept me warm and dry). Weather intolerant Jen, 0

My friend Pam said that even the bad runs are good. I'll try to keep that in mind :)

3 Borough Sunday...

woke up, fell outta bed, dragged a comb across my head.  found my way downstairs and drank a shake...and looking up i noticed i was late.  "shit, I'm supposed to be in Brooklyn in 30 minutes and the F train isn't running".

• What else is new with me. I am always late.
  
• So I spent 30 freaking dollars (after tip) to take a cab to prospect park at 8:10am this morning so I wouldn't be late for my 4 mile run
• Brooklyn is as foreign to me as say Romania, but I made it there safe, sound and on-time
• No one told me that the first mile was uphill (somewhat reminiscent of my 10k in Central Park last summer)
• The race was a bit difficult but I was powering through at my usual snails pace. Still getting lapped by 10 year olds and 70 year olds...oh and a really snazzy power walker. Man in the green shirt- way to go!
• No one told me the last half mile of the race was uphill. Oh boy was I beyond pissed. I had to walk for a minute or so bc I was a bit winded....most likely from muttering curse words and whomever designed the course to end uphill. stupid.
• I finished. My team in training mentor Yasi was there to give me a pat on the back. 
• Had brunch with TNT folks at a local burger joint. Met some new friends. Helps to stay motivated when you hear other people's stories.
• Hopped on the G train (first time ever) to go see baby James. His smile just melts me. I heart him so much.
• Left QNS and am back in my apartments. BTW, 6 flights of stairs is not fun after 4 miles. Should be interesting as my mileage increases.

Thank you to everyone who has contributed so far. It means more to me than you can imagine and it keeps my motivated because I don't want to let anyone down.

xoxo

j

2.5 Mile Group Night Run in Central Park

So Team in Training has group runs /drills every Wednesday and Saturday...it's actually kind of motivating.

So after 20 minutes of Italian class last night, I politely excused myself (much to the dismay of my instructor) and met up with 100 or so other people to run on E. 90th st.

• It was cold...whomever told me you warm up after a few minutes lied. I was cold the entire time.
• I was at the back of the pack (as usual). I actually seem to keep pace with the run/walkers. Sad I know, but Irefuse to walk. I guess it's more motivation to run faster
• We focused on high arm swing (for more power) and low arm swing (for endurance). I snuck in a bunch of nose-wipe swings :)
• We stretched and I was back sitting on my couch eating turkey chili by 8:3o or so.

I am not going to lie, cold and all...it felt pretty good...and it's for a great cause.

Jen vs Treadmill

I'll make this short and sweet...it's cold and super rainy in NYC so last night I decided to run inside on the treadmill. Did I mention I hate running in the cold, let alone the rain?

• My goal: 3 miles
• As I was changing in the locker room, I noticed an odd smell (NYSC on 8th ave is a little sketch)
• As I wiped down the treadmill before I touched any buttons (self proclaimed germaphobe), I noticed an odd smell
• As I stared to warm up, I noticed an odd smell. hrm...
• Upon further subtle exploration, I realized the odd smell was me
• Backstory: I made delicious turkey chili on Sunday night, but don't have great ventilation in my apartment...so the smell lingers. My bedroom is right off of my kitchen. I *may* have grabbed my dirty work-out clothes from Saturday and thrown them in my gym bag for last night's run.
• Dirty gym clothes + turkey chili + natural organic deodorant = an very ODD smelling Jen (sorry to those running next to me)
• So I ran 2 miles. I thought I was CRUSING but the treadmill told me I was running a 13 min 20 sec mile. It lied. I was cruising at my usual 12 min 15 second pace.
• My goal *was* 3 miles. But after the 2 mile mark, my stomach did a flip, my colon gurgled down deep and my head started to twinge. I wasn't sure if I was going to vomit, poop or pass out, so I stopped
• My face was bright red (little known Jen fact: when working out, I often get a Harry Potter-esque red bolt down my forehead...I will post a pic next time) and I felt as though I was radiating enough heat to supply a small village

Damn you treadmill. Bright red face and over-heated Jen 0. Treadmill 1. Until we meet again...

My Fundraising Page

My Fundraising Page

Run Jen Run

As some of you may have heard, last week I signed up for the San Diego Rock & Roll half marathon.

I know, I know. Most of you are thinking "hrm...I don't remember Jen being much of a runner". Well, you are correct. I am not. I am slow, I complain, I don't like the cold and my ankles and knees usually hurt after 3 or so strides. But I am running as part of Team in Training, a great org that helps raise money for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

To read why I am doing this, check out my page: http://pages.teamintraining.org/nyc/rnr10/jlinet

Please donate and in return, I promise to blog about my training progress. If that doesn't sound too exciting, let me sum up last week.

• I joined TNT (ha, imagine if they used the "I" in the middle)...last Thursday
• I called my friend Christine to tell her I wanted to run in her honor and would she help me fundraise (she happily agreed...wait until I share my $goal with her) :)
• I received an email Friday with details re: my group run on Saturday morning
• I ran with the beginners. I was the last in the pack (did I mention I currently run about a 12 minute mile...I was lapped by pregnant woman when I did my 10k last June)
• Dave, a cancer survivor and now super runner and tri-athlete felt sorry for me and stayed with me while I completed the run
• Dave trained for his first triathlon while undergoing chemo a few years ago. What could I complain about at that point!
• After the run, I met my cousin Kara in Grand Central. I was sweaty and dressed like a thug (black sweats, skull cap, etc). I complained that I was a bit sore from the run.
• Apparently running put me in some fog-like trance and I proceeded to:
• knock on what I thought was my sister's apartment door, jiggle the handle, and then realize that I was on the wrong floor, wrong apartment (run Kara, this isn't D & Mark's apartment)
• attempt to sit down on a bench to try on shoes. I missed and fell straight to the floor.
• tell my physical therapist he was 2 seconds away from me um... passing gas in his face, if he did not unfold my body into a normal position

If you like what you just read, donate, donate, donate and I promise to continue to share.

Love,

Jen