Lacy's

fw:re:

2011-06-13T21:05:00.000-05:00

Hi, save time, save effort, save money.
You can easily find what you want.
A business company: newbuystore.com
I believe it also can certainly take you a wonderful trip.

Whoa!

2011-04-16T15:33:00.000-05:00

My head is spinning but I had to pause to show you who I saw today. The picture is blurry, but that's okay.
I was walking through the expo and caught a glimpse of Ryan Hall and then he walked over to Josh Cox. With sweaty arm pits I interrupted them and asked for a picture.

Dealin' With It

2011-04-12T08:55:00.000-05:00

I don't know why. I just do, ok?! I haven't always, but I just do now.

What am I talking about? PINK. That terrible, awful color. And why am I talking about it? Because my shoe's this season only come in pink. ....iiiccck

When I called about my specially ordered Saucony Guide's SIZE: 10.5 - NARROW (aka: HUGE mammoth , yet thin sized), the shoe store owner warned me that they were pink. He knew my strong distaste for the color too. Seeing as it was April 1st, I held out hope all day that it was a joke. Alas, it wasn't and I now have my very first pair of pink shoes. So, yeah, I'm dealin' with it!

Blue's more my thing, if you hadn't noticed

My new shoes

So, that's my "spoiled, cushy, does what ever I please, has nothing to really whine about" problem of the week.
In that same vain, Here's the link to a nice article from a local magazine SPLURGE! They wrote about my said cushy life. Oh and the author included some really nice stuff about my family.
http://www.splurgemag.com/category.php?id=82&cat=Live

April's Splurge!

So, that's a small tidbit into the running drama going on this month. Oh, and that I'm leaving for Boston this week. I'm bib # 8007 and can be tracked along the race.

http://www.baa.org/races/boston-marathon/participant-information/att-athlete-alert.aspx

All the info's at the link.

Here's to hoping I'm all smiles (not just faked ones for the camera) as I cross the line on Monday. Even if I'm in pink shoes.

2010, 3:29 Finish

Me faking it. Really thinking "Is this real life?"

Better Late Than Never!

2011-03-31T07:55:00.001-05:00

Wow-za! It's been so busy around here!
I woke up remembering that I forgot to draw the winners for this great book.
So, as the early morning trash trucks are rumbling down the street I'm up in the dark selecting the random winners.
I'm happy to announce that Jason N., Hannah, and Matt B. are the lucky winners of the great book,

Don't Let Me Go, by David W. Pierce (What My Daughter Taught Me About the Journey Every Parent Must Make)

contact me: lacyjhansen at gmail dot com and I'll get your book to you ASAP, promise!

In the meantime, here's a really short video as we actually got to the finish line. You can hear my breathing and see just how slow we're moving. You can also see that I'm just walking in my Dad's footsteps. It's a precious memory for me.

I'll also let you read our second attempt up the Peak. It was only one year later and it was ugly! 2008's Ascent ended up being called off during the race due to a monstrous blizzard above tree line. We received that news about 10 miles up the trail. The only way off that trail was to turn around and go back down. Our 1/2 Marathon ended up being a 20 mile mountain hike in the freezing rain. Still a priceless memory, just not as found.

http://blog.lacyjhansen.com/2008/08/pikes-peak-descent-2008.html

2008 Pike Peak Ascent- or Descent as it were!

Climbing Mountains

2011-03-17T14:27:00.000-05:00

Yesterday registration for The Pikes Peak Ascent and the Pikes Peak Marathon opened up. I saw so many out there on the interwebs mention they signed up. I, however, did not. Not yet, at least. This race is so special to me though. I was lucky enough to complete the race to the top of Pikes Peak with my Dad. We completed the Ascent in 2007.
We didn't know what we were doing, we were slow, and we were deliriously happy when it was all over.

The Ascent proved to be a trek up a literal and metaphorical mountain for me and my Dad. It's a treasured memory I will store in my heart for the rest of my life. I mean, how many of you have climbed a mountain with your Dad?

Finished! Smiling at 14,000+ Feet

The complete, heart felt account is found at this link. Warning: it still makes me cry after all these years.

http://blog.lacyjhansen.com/2007/08/we-peaked.html

It's all worth it once you're at the top!

As I listened to some great runner's chat while we ran this winter, we got in to a conversation about a book they'd all been reading. The book is titled Don't Let Me Go, by David W. Pierce (What My Daughter Taught Me About the Journey Every Parent Must Make). My friends kept talking about how the story made them want to climb mountains and run races with their daughters, as the book accounts the adventures of a father and daughter as they climb mountains and, you guessed it, run races together. The more I listened the more I knew I had to get my hands on this book.
I did just that. I was immediately surprised at the first two pictures I saw as I thumbed through it in the book store. They looked just like the pictures my Dad and I had taken as we journeyed up Pikes Peak.
I gave the book to my Dad for Christmas and we both have really enjoyed comparing our climb verses theirs.

I was so impressed with just the first two chapters, I emailed the author and let him know about me and my Dad. David Pierce has been such a great guy. He got back with me right away after he read my blog post. We've shared kind words and encouragements back and forth over the last month.
It feels like we're in the same club. We've both been changed by our "mountain climbs" and our "marathons." We both know what an unbreakable bond a father and daughter can form once they endure these things together.
If you haven't climbed a mountain with your dad, I highly recommend it. Pikes Peak registration is open you know. :)
Also, if you haven't read David's book. I highly recommend that as well.
He was nice enough to send me 3 copies to give away.

I'll hold a random drawing in one week. To be entered in the drawing leave a comment. Let me know about what you thought of my story of our Pikes Peak Ascent. Let me know if you've experienced something similar with your Dad. Let me know what your hopeful plans are for you and your Dad. There's no wrong answer here.
I'm so excited for a few of you to get your hands on this book.

Here's a video of all the images from our 2007 Pikes Peak Ascent

Long Story Short

2011-02-26T20:16:00.000-06:00

So, here's the short story of what's been happening.
January 22, I join the GoRun Runners and headed out to Kingman County for "one hill of a run." 20 insane miles on the relentless hills of Kingman. As one friend said, "those hills were demoralizing!"

That's a big deal for Kansas, ok?

They were, but it felt good to get that awesome workout in so early in the training season.

A PRE shot before the Kingman Hills

I ran my normal miles the rest of the week. I felt tight in my left calf specifically but chalked it up to the hill run. I stretched more and just dealt with it.
Wednesday, January 26, was my typical morning 10 miler with some speed work. I even got creative and "Stitched" my neighborhood.

My "Stitch" Run

I had to stop twice on this run to stretch out my calf. Again, I just thought the pain was tightness and assumed some more localized attention would do the trick.
That evening I ran once more with the GoRun evening group. I complained that the "tightness" was really bugging me. After the run I stuck around for a great clinic about running drills. I had a great time ignoring the screaming pain and learning to do high knee and skipping drills.

The GoRun Running Clinic

I cycled on the non-running days and kinda forgot about the pain.
I even had a DEXA Scan done at my doctor's office. It revealed some lower bone density levels that we're slightly concerning for a runner, especially a female runner. All the time I was at the docs it never occurred to me to mention the pain in my calf. I just assumed it was a fluke and I went on with my scan. (It also gave an accurate reading of my body fat percentage. But you don't care about that do you?)

My Bones and Tissue

However, by the halfway point of my 18 miler on January 29, I knew something more than tightness was brewing in my left calf. I feared the worse. The runner's kryptonite: A STRESS FRACTURE.

I contacted my PT, Mr. Karl Glick. he told me not to run and come see him Monday, January 31.
I should have taken a wooden spoon to bite down on with me to that appointment. Once he confirmed it wasn't a stress fracture (phew!) he proceeded to try and kill me.
While it wasn't a stress fracture it was a nasty tear in my calf. He immediately hooked me up to an ultrasound machine and treated the "knot." Then he used his hands to "workout the knot." OH. MY.
I can't think of anything more painful in my entire life. Not childbirth (eventual c-section of a 9lbs. 13oz. baby), not a stress fracture, not stitches, not running a marathon, or recovering from a marathon. Nope. Not one thing has been as painful as the therapy for a muscle tear.
I was on my belly, clinching my fist, and kicking my good leg. (I later learned that most cry and that includes the grown men. I feel that earns me some serious street cred.)
I left the office with the strict instructions not to run, cycling and swimming were okay, and to come back on Wednesday, February 2.
Thank goodness for the purchase of a trainer this winter. My butt and that saddle got real familiar this month!
I was lucky to only have to do the ultrasound treatment on 2/2/11, not hand-to-calf contact. That was a nice Groundhog's gift! No more torture.
Karl had me schedule a massage with our favorite therapist, Nancy Korroch, for Friday, February 4. He treated me with another ultrasound and then sent me down the street to her.
She worked that pesky tear over. I wasn't in as much pain as Monday, but sheesh! I found myself on my belly clinching my fist once more.
She also had another plan for me. She's been researching Ion Detox Foot Baths. I got to be one of her guinea pigs. Along with claims of ridding your body of dangerous toxins, it also couples with electrode therapy. So I sat with electrodes on my sore calf, causing it to contract, and watched as my clear water turned into a swamp of supposed toxins.

Nice clean water to start

Less than 5 minutes in

About 15 minutes

The final shot at 30 minutes

The chart showed that greens and oranges were possible toxins from my gallbladder and joints, I think. Like I said, we're in the research stage of this product. And she figured, it couldn't hurt to try and see if it helped the healing process. Man, it was gross to see though!!

I couldn't run long the next day, so on Saturday, February 5, I replaced my long run with my first 50 mile spin. Whew! Even the best of shows can't make that sort of thing fun. I watched a lot of TV that day and was so glad when the 50 rolled over on my calculator!
Fast forward to Wednesday, February 9. I'd totaled four ultrasound treatments and even was approved to give the elliptical a whirl.

Finally on my feet

But Wednesday was the real test. A bona fide run on a treadmill was on the doctor's orders. Only 3 miles, but I took it. I felt pretty good and I got pretty eager. I felt like a caged horse, dying to run. I probably ran a little too hard, finishing up in sub 7/minute miles. It felt really good.
Wednesday, February 16: PT require a morning 5 miler and an evening 5 miler to see how the legs would do on their first double digit day. I'd been allowed to run several 5's and 6's since the first treadmill run, but nothing higher. All signs pointed towards healing as I finished my day's miles with the Wednesday GoRun gang once more.
Saturday, February 19: First "Long Run" back. Ran 14 with the Saturday morning crew and reported back to PT that there was no pain, just a little tightness. He sent me on to my normal week this week and had me plan to check in on Thursday.
Thursday, February 24: "If you promise to go moderate, no hills, no speed work, and vow to shut it down after 15 miles if there's pain, you can run the scheduled 20."
Saturday, February 26 (Today):

No PAIN to report!

Kids, I think we're back in business!

Anyone want to buy my tickets to Boston?

He's All Heart!

2011-02-09T17:45:00.000-06:00

My little man is hi-jacking the blog today. I'll allow it though.

Check out what he has to say:

(Notice his celebration at the end? That was "Take 15" of the afternoon!)

Here's "His Website":

http://bit.ly/hxtAE3

I used to participate in Jump Rope For Heart when I was little and it's been great to watch Judah do the same for the last 3 years.

World Cup Practice

One of his pals from pre-school has a baby brother with a "special heart." Judah was really impacted when he learned that a baby had to go through open heart surgery. It really sank in this summer when he saw the scar at a pool party.

Michael Phelps #2

So, even though this snow is causing lots of cabin fever, Judah doesn't argue too much when he's told he needs to get some "exercise."

If it's too cold to get outside, then he has to give us 30 minutes of Wii Fit. Tough price to pay for having a healthy heart.

Blizzard of Oz, 2011

He's starting to understand what a gift good health really is.

Thanks for listening and thank you for your donations!

9:05, 1 Mile Oct. 2010. That's MY boy!!

Stir Crazy!!!

2011-02-06T15:34:00.000-06:00

I haven't fallen off the face of the Earth, but it feels like I've been in another dimension lately! (more on that later)
In the meantime, check out who else has been bringing home the bling this month!!
Little man took home two, yes TWO, trophies from his first Pinewood Derby.
My Dad helped him build the car and the axles. He helped him add weight and get it painted. We helped him get he's desired design of a Wii-mote perfected.
The little booger walked away with the trophy for best design and for being the fastest Tiger Cub! He earned a spot to go on to a district competition. Must be rough being the best at everything!

Judah and His Pit Crew!

The day of the derby it was a rare 70 degree January day, two days later it was a record low of 3 degrees and so much snow and cold that school was canceled for 3 days straight!

My Little Snow Monster!

All of this took place while my running was being seriously effected. Not so much by the weather though. The longer story, I'll get to next is about my new adventures with a torn calf muscle. Stay tuned, it's good one!

SuRRRRvey Saaaays!!!!!...........

2011-01-18T21:36:00.000-06:00

With the help of Random.org the winner of the Road ID eCard is...................(drum roll)....................................(BING!)

Danny!

Congratulations! Now if we meet up at a race we can hold up our wrist bands together like Power Rangers!

Or even better, like the Wonder Twins!

"Form of a Road ID!"

Or maybe not. (I may have just let the freak flag fly a little too high)

Danny, email me at lacyjhansen at gmail dot com and I'll get you hooked up with my pals at Road ID.

Thanks to everyone for entering and stay tuned. I've got another awesome product to tell you about later this week. Oh, and I'm giving you a chance to win too!

Who Are You?

2011-01-11T17:22:00.000-06:00

I finally got my Road ID in the mail this weekend! Since day one, my Dad told me to get an ID, to have on me or my shoes, while I was out running. I listened and got a small dog tag with one phone number listed for my cheap shoes. However, I was rarely ever a mile from home at this point. And furthermore, I got real shoes and a new number a few weeks later and never got another ID.
But, flash forward 4 years and I have now followed my Dad's advice and I've got my ID.

The nice shiny tin it was delivered in

I ordered the "Wrist ID Elite" from Road ID. I chose blue, not a big surprise, right? Their website shows all the different wrist models, and an ankle model, a necklace, and shoe models. They provide several different colors to choose from as well. Ordering from their site,

http://www.roadid.com/Common/default.aspx

was super simple and quick.

The site also includes testimony after testimony of how an ID quite literally saved someone's life.

Listed all my vitals and an inspirational phrase

"If you can't speak for yourself, Road ID will speak for you."

The quote says it all. I've been very lucky that I haven't been in a situation where I couldn't speak for myself. But now, me and my family can rest easier knowing I'll have a voice wrapped around my wrist when I'm "out there."

The voice to speak for me

I've been very pleased with my choice. My ID is light weight and I cut it down to size. So it fits me just right. I actually forget it's there, that's what I was hoping for. I can easily clean it when it gets too sweaty as well.

I don't have any major medical condtions or allegies so I had a little more room for an inspirational phrase. I chose to put a note to my son. I had limited characters so I struggled to get it just right.
That little boy is my muse. He's been there since my first mile, watching me push myself pass my previous abilities. My heart's desire is that this will help him grow to know that he shouldn't limit himself, he should dream big, and mostly never give up. When I'm struggling to get up a hill, when I'm out of breath, or when I'm just completely spent, he's the thought that enters my mind. And then somehow the strength to push through shows up.

July 4, 2006- Judah watching me run my first 1 Mile race

And most importantly I believe with my whole heart:

Philippians 4:13 (New International Version, ©2010)

¹³ I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

I think I got my money's worth on the last two lines of the ID.

The worst thing that's happened to me this season was when I fell and scraped up my knee. I was all alone and more embarrassed than hurt. I snapped a pic and sent it to my husband (ahhh....living in a world with smart phones...), told him where I was and ran home. Now if it had been my head instead, who knows what might have happened. I also have run in other cities this season. Whether in a race or just in a neighborhood, there wasn't anyone near who could have spoken for me.

The aftermath of kissing the pavement

So, I'm going to give you my Dad's advice, "Get an ID." And I'm going to add my own, "Don't wait so long to do it!"

Zach B. running in the blizzard of 2011- Photo by Travis Heying

The winter finally showed up here in Wichita this week. Not all of us are as crazy as my friend Zach, but many of us are still getting out there. It's cold and slick, prime conditions for a fall or injury. Do you have your Road ID?

If the answer is no, my friends at Road ID want to help you out. They are going to give one of you an eCard to road ID. With the card you can order any ID of your choice.

So here's what you need to do:

Leave comments letting me know:

1. What model you would choose if you won (Check the site http://RoadID.com)

2. What fun phrase would you include as a motivator on your ID

3. You "Liked" them on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/RoadID)

4. You follow them on Twitter (http://twitter.com/#!/roadid)

5. You think I'm awesome. (okay, that won't help you win, but it'll make me happy)

Each one of those tasks will get you a separate entry into a random drawing for the eCard. I will hold the drawing in one week. Good luck everyone, and be safe out there!

Happy New Year!

2011-01-03T20:46:00.000-06:00

I rang in the new year with a bang. I was just so blessed to pull off my first Frosty 5K New Years Day WIN!! Even better..... I PR'd too!
It was below feezing, not too windy, and full of sunshine. I guess it was just my day.

Pre-Race with my parents and friends

I pulled in front before mile one and ran as hard as I could to keep #2 behind me. When I knew I had sealed the win I was overjoyed. When I turned the corner to see the clock and knew I PRed, I was in shock.

At the Start (I'm looking back at FairWeather Runner!)

My previous PR was set in June 2009. I ran a 19:56 that summer. I clocked a 19:42 on Saturday. Sub zero temps are rarely PR days and it hurt all day in my chest, but it was worth it. I got a gold medal and a $100 gift certificate to First Gear.

Finishing in 19:42

I had tucked this race back in my mind during the week. I knew that there was gift money to be won. I held off on any after Christmas shopping in the tiny belief that I stood a chance at winning.
My Dad and I joked later that night that I pulled a "Babe Ruth" and called my shot.
I was just lucky and I know it.
I prayed the night before and that morning for God's favor. As I travel down this road as a runner I've been really trying to find the pure joy in the run. That's something I've lost many times during my journey. I long for the days that I can't wait to get out there. The mornings when I'm still nervous before a long run. The runs I go further because I want to.
Mostly I'm seeking to sense my God's goodness when I run. The 5K hurt, but I felt his pleasure and that's the real prize.

I didn't see Chariot's Of Fire until just a few years ago. Since then I hear the quote of Eric Liddell running through my head every time I run. How I desire to have this be my anthem every time I lace up my shoes.

"I believe God made me for a purpose, but he also made me fast. And when I run I feel His pleasure."

-Eric Liddell

It was a great post-race too. I met some new people, caught up with some others, and caught glimpses of some I wished I'd talked to. I did get to talk to John (2Slow4Boston) and get reminded to stop slacking on my blog, I mean I was inspired to write.... right John?

Most of my family was at the race and we all had a great morning. My sister was in town for the Holiday and we had a wonderful post-race afternoon and evening. And if you want to talk about pleasure, listen to my uncontrollable laughing as we decided to dispose of our gingerbread house in style this year. (You might be a redneck..........)

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

New Terrain

2010-12-26T15:31:00.000-06:00

Tis' the season to be busy, right?
Even though I haven't written about it much, I have been running and riding lots. I've gotten the chance to really break things up too and get some interesting workouts in.

A few Saturday's ago I joined a group of runners who call themselves the "West Side Wackos." They're a lively bunch of runners who live on the west side of town. Thanks to Daily Mile I've been made an honorary WSW even though I live out East.
They welcome any and all regardless of their geographic location.
I joined them at 6AM on a Saturday morning to follow a caravan of 10+ cars out to the desolate highway 17 in Kingman county.

The cold dark morning with the WSW!

I was told this course was awesome, hilly, and beautiful.
I had no idea what I was getting into!!!

New scenery for sure! Can't see any hills in these pic though.

Some of the other runners making their way back after about 10 miles

I ran 8 miles into the town of Kingman on a very cold winter morning. Cresting at least 15 hills all the way. My heart rate was flying! There was a grocery store at mile 8. I caught my breath, grabbed a drink, and headed back for another 8 miles of pain!
It was good pain though!!
I was so tired the next two days. But I know I've found my Heartbreak Hill training course now!!

Another different type of run took place this week. On Monday night I kept hearing more and more about the lunar eclipse that was to take place in the early morning hours Tuesday. I continued to hear how the fact that it was landing on the Winter solstice was a once in a life time event. It had been some like 400 years since it last happened?
On a whim I posted a note on Daily Mile and Facebook just to see if any weirdos might want to run in the middle of the night to observe the eclipse. Sure enough, I'm not the only crazy one out there.
Long story short I meet a group of 5 other runners for a run at 1AM until about 3AM.
We ran through the streets of Wichita and watched the moon disappear and watched it turn red. It was very very cool!

Freezing and Eclipsing at 2AM

Runners moon gazing

I got home about 3, showered, and went right back to bed. I was super tired the next day, a little sore, but stoked to wake up with my workout already done!
I'm so glad I got to do this.

Another new scene for my workouts has been..... my bedroom. Yep, that's right. I wanted to keep up with my cycling as the weather got cold this year. Kenton was kind enough to invest in a trainer for our road bikes. It's taken a bit to get used to it, but my room is where you'll find me spinning away about every other day. I rotate the TV, find a good show and try to knock out a nice long ride.
Kenton's been using it too. Our only little hiccup is that we both have to share a nut for our bikes. The nut on my bike won't fit on the trainer. So every morning I'd unscrew Kenton's to put on mine. It was really a pain and I guess he heard my complaints.
On Christmas morning, I unwrapped a tiny little jewelery box to find my very own nut.

My very special Christmas gift

I guess I got what I asked for

I enjoyed my post Christmas spin while watching Christmas Vacation with my very own nut this morning! Best thing about gift giving is to give them something they'll use. Well, if that's true.... Kenton nailed it this year!

Spinning in my room

Not really my best look...yikes!

Happy trails where ever they might be!

Jingle Bell Run

2010-12-24T13:51:00.000-06:00

It's better late than never on these post, right?
The annual Jingle Bell 4 miler was a fun event as always. Here's the low down on the morning.

It was about 30 degrees with a 20mph+ north wind. Needless to say, it was not ideal running conditions.
I ran 8 miles with my gang prior to the race and quickly showered and changed to make it down to the Waterwalk with about 10 minutes to spare.

4 Mile Start

I was a member of a group costume: "The Ugly Sweater Party." I planned to try and run and defend my title as 1st place from last year, so I dressed the part, but missed the fun. These guys ran along passing out hot cider and candy canes along the way.

Ugly Sweater Party!

The gun sounded and I ran with all I had. We were quickly turned into the wind and I struggled as did everyone else. The wind was cold and strong. I quickly pulled into the front. I could tell I was in about third place. I pulled up to second and then this rouge runner came blasting by me. She had on baggy sweats and an over sized hoodie. I had no idea who she was or where she came from. I chased her the whole race and never caught her. Later I discovered she wasn't in the race. She was apparently either a bandit who jumped in at some point or was just out on her run. Either way, she psyched me out the last three miles.
In addition to feeling like I was going to hurl, the course marshall's weren't at their spots and the first 20 of us ran the wrong way out into traffic. That kept it exciting :)
I ended up finishing 2nd overall in a time of 26:53 or something like that.

Finishing up my 4 miler

The highlight of the day was Kenton and Judah. Last year Kenton won the costume contest in his magnificent "Holiday Fireplace" costume. This years costume was more a performance piece that didn't go over as well. His great idea was to be George Bailey from "It's a Wonderful Life." He planned to reenact the famous scene of George running through the streets of Bedford Falls screaming "Merry Christmas..." Kenton's mistake was taking the costume too far. He thought to paint his face "black and white" as the character is only seen in black in white. It didn't translate.


"Merry Christmas you old Building and Loan!!"

While Judah was dressed as "Clarence" or an Angel *with Wings* (post bell ringing), the one mile gun went off and Kenton screamed and waved for the whole chilly mile.
Due to the paint and Judah's costume, they received 2nd prize in the costume contest. They won for being the "Ghosts of Christmas' Past."

Yep, we're 'special'

That was hilarious! Oh well, they took their Applebee's gift card anyways!
The morning was concluded with lots of medals and prizes. I received a LED head lamp and a medal for my 2nd place finish. The best part of this event was all the door prizes though.
Before it was over I had received enough gift certificates from Road ID to get an ID of my choice, Panera Bread gift cards, Applebee's money, and Freddy's Frozen Custard money!

The finale of our morning included Kenton, dressed as George Bailey (The richest man in Bedford Falls), going back in for a soda to take on the drive home. Since they all were technically free to the runners, George Bailey comes running from the Waterwalk building yelling: "GO!! RUN!!!"

We made it home with two, yes TWO cases of Diet Pepsi!!!

Oh, Merry Christmas you Old Building and Loan, Merry Christmas Mr. Potter, and Merry Christmas to you too!

Route 66 1/2 Marathon

2010-12-12T17:55:00.000-06:00

As I've read through the blog world this week, I noticed many other 2 week old race reports. I figured that was as good of a sign as any to post about my fun run over two weeks ago.

Saturday, November 20th was Wichita's annual 10 Mile Turkey Trot. Just 4 tiny years ago this was my very first 10 mile run. It was so, so hard. I hurt like crazy after it was over. I felt invincible. I hoped as I walked around that day that all the strangers could sense I had just done something amazing.
Now I laugh because I rarely set foot out the door for a run any shorter than 10. It's a great feeling to look back and see that I've come so far.

Wearing a cotton shirt and waving at my baby as I finish Turkey Trot 2006

Every November I look forward to the Turkey Trot. It's an anniversary for me of sorts. However, my only nephew trumps any race. His birthday always comes close to the race. Some years I've crossed the line, hit the shower, and jumped in the car headed for Oklahoma, just to roll in for his party.
This year no amount of Kenton's super driving could land us in Tulsa on time. So, plan B was initiated.

Still not knowing for sure what Plan B included, I woke on Saturday the 20th, ran with a small group of friends who weren't racing, jumped in the car and headed to Tulsa. Officially decided to sign up for the 1/2 portion of Tulsa's Route 66 Marathon the next morning somewhere between singing Happy Birthday and the slicing of the cake.
Kenton and I ran down to the expo and took care of business. I headed back to a chaotic cousin/post party/toy overloaded home and remembered that this race should be fun, trying not to sweat the horrible pre-race rest atmosphere.
After a dinner a Pei Wei and a terrible time getting two little boys to be quiet and go to sleep. The early morning alarm went off way too soon.
I checked the forecast, was in disbelief of the warm November morning, and got dressed. I was going to wear the same outfit that I wore in a half in June. I wasn't complaining, just couldn't believe it.
Kenton rolled off the hide-a-bed and ever so graciously drove me down to the start.
I was in a port-a-potty line when the 5 minute warning was given. Thankfully some 5Ker's let me jump ahead, as they had 1/2 an hour until their start.

Great Starting Line atmosphere!

I weaseled down to the crowded start with my eyes peeled for "Corral A." I could only assume that was the first corral and jumped through the fence, woke up my Garmin, and "BOOM!" The gun went off, the confetti was flying and I was moving.
I assumed I was in the right spot, but wasn't *really* sure until mile 3. That was a long time of hoping I didn't just waste a lot of money. I feared maybe I had gotten in the full marathon only start or something.
But all was well and I began my nice long run for the morning. The crowd was so thick for the for the first 2-3 miles. I could get a good pace going for a bit. But, eventually it spread out and I just took in the race.
It was windy and cloudy but the streets were lined with fans and there were live bands playing about every mile or two. That was great.


Around Mile 5

I thoroughly enjoyed my run. I didn't plan for anything but a strong run and hopefully an enjoyable one. I didn't pay attention to my Garmin until about mile 9. Sure, in the back of my head a PR was bouncing around, but I had just run 12 the day before and had not tapered all week long. However, I thought about what time I could make up if I picked up the pace. So, while mile 9-10 isn't the place to start a race strategy, I went ahead and tried some quick math to see what I could do. Since I stink at math, I just sped up and pushed for the last 4 miles.

The wind was howling as we crossed the bridges

Knowing my sister had the boys and Kenton was possibly asleep in the car, I phoned him and said exactly this, "I'm at about mile 10." He heard, "I have about a mile 10 (1.10)." I love that he even thought that was humanly possible.

Notice "The Flash" in the back?

He phoned my sister urged her to rush like mad to the finish because he thought I was going to win.
Meanwhile the final miles of the course were one straight down and then back. So, I began to see the leaders. I counted as 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and even 7 maybe more females ran past me. I still had some gas left so I pushed it. This was the windiest part of the course. A very strong headwind made the finish pretty rough. I passed at least one female in that last stretch. I rounded the corner and heard the 6th female finish as the announcer was shouting out for the top ten finishers.
Motley Crue's "Girls, Girls, Girls," was blaring as I ran to the finish. My sister, nephew, and son on one side, and Kenton on the other.

I purposely made this face...not as good looking as I thought it'd be

I finished with the original goals intact. I ran strong and had a good time. Yes, I was bummed, I know I could have run harder, I just didn't plan for my competitive monster to flare up at mile 10.
I ended up with a time of 1:34, 7th overall female, and first in my age group. For a whim, I should be pleased with that...and I'm getting there.

They had the coolest medals, the wheel spins.

The after party was awesome. Tons of food, a live band, lots of fun for the kids, and free beer. So, if you didn't know here you go. I hate beer. AND I'm allergic to gluten which is in 99% of beers. However, I come from a long line of beer connoisseurs. My sister being one of them. No one in the family is a lush, they just really appreciate the brewing art and flavor of beer. As I continued to walk past the beer tent, with two tickets for beer, my sister couldn't stand it anymore. In her words, "It's a crime to waste free beer."
To keep the peace in my family, I redeemed those tickets and secured my two free beers.
And to offer a laugh to everyone who knows me, this was posted on Facebook.

One for my homies

All in all, I'm so glad I ran this race. I'd like to do it again. I'd know there were some pretty intense hills and I'd plan for it better next time.
It's all relative. I am actually most proud that I'm healthy enough to run such a strong race on a whim. Who would have thought this was possible, just 4 tiny years ago?

Philippians 1:3

2010-11-30T13:53:00.000-06:00

"I thank my God every time I remember you." Philippians 1:3

This was Judah's memory verse this month in Sunday school. He got it memorized real fast and would speed through it every time we'd quiz him. Finally, we asked him to slow down and say it to where we could all understand it.

It finally sunk in with me too. I have so many things to be thankful for. So many people that make my life rich and full.

However, few really come close to the amazing thankfulness I have for my little boy.

He had to have surgery this month. Nothing major but surgery none the less. I played very brave for him all morning as we prepared to leave for the surgery center. As I read over the doctor's instructions I saw he couldn't have any type of jewelery or bracelet on. I wanted to give him something special so I grabbed the Sharpie and finally got to give him a reminder on his arm.

I love him most

He writes me notes on my arm to help me remember him during races. I wanted to help him remember me during his feat. He always says, "I love you Mommy!" I always say back, "I love you too." Then he says, "I love you more." I've always said, "Okay." Even when he was smaller he would ask, "Why do you always do that? You're supposed to play along."

The morning of his surgery I smiled and told him, "I actually love you most, not more."

"go go go <3 JOH"

He wrote me an arm full in October for the marathon. The nurses liked his note and our tradition. They said they'd never seen anyone do that before.

As he walked bravely back into the care of mere strangers I sat in the waiting room and cried on Kenton's shoulders.

Not soon enough they called us back and we could finally see our little boy. He wanted to sit on Daddy's lap (he later told me he didn't want to hurt me, that's why he asked for Daddy).

He drank a juice box and finally we were able to go home for recovery.

My favorites

As we sat around as a family of three this past Thanksgiving weekend, eating turkey tacos, we all went around sharing what we were most thankful for.

Did my sweet angel say his loving mother who would walk through fire for him? Heck no!

"Angry Birds, Gravity, the Wii, and Netflix."

No bother, I have to thank my God every time I remember him!

Community

2010-11-03T15:26:00.000-05:00

It's been a full few weeks. But as it's slowing down a hair, it's awesome to look back and see how all the busyness has been mostly fun.
I've had some great opportunity to bond with my community this past month.
As a runner, a community is what really makes the sport worthwhile. When it's cold and you know the group is waiting on you, you've got the motivation to get out the door.
When you're a little burnt out and you know others are expecting you, the conversation during the run normally makes all the other feelings fade.
When the run is getting so hard you don't know if you can continue, it's the community that holds you up and carries you across the finish line.

Not all of us, but some of the community post marathon/pre-spring roll dinner!

I would have thrown in the towel long ago if I hadn't found a group to bond with. This past month I've had a special chance to do even more of that than usual.

One of my community members, Katie, trained all summer long with us. She dropped off Gatorade and water at our mile 6 every Saturday morning. She decided to run the Chicago Marathon on 10-10-10 with her Dad instead of staying town to run The Prairie Fire. We all eagerly awaited her results as we knew she'd be amazing in Chi Town. As luck would have it, she got very sick in Chicago on Saturday and wasn't able to run Sunday morning.
She was crushed, understandably. As an attempt to not waste all that training she signed up for the Kansas City Marathon the following Saturday. Her Dad was going to run the half, but that still left her all alone for over 18 miles of the race.
My heart leaped at the opportunity to help my new friend. As all things just worked out, I found myself flying down the turnpike at 5AM that Saturday morning with Kenton and Judah. Kenton's the best. He willing got us all out of bed and drove us up to KC in record time. I was at mile 13 with plenty of time to spare.

Watching the Front Runners at mile 13 of the KC Marathon

I was able to jump in and begin running with Katie with ease. However, before we hit mile 14 Katie realized she wasn't feeling as good as she hoped. She quickly changed her goal from a strong time to "just finishing."

Meeting Katie for the last half

Many pace groups passed us as we took on all the unforgiving hills of KC. When I got in we were ahead of the 3:10 pace group. In the last two miles the 3:40 pace group passed us.

The last .2 miles of the KC Marathon

Katie struggled like she never had before. We had to stop and stretch, stop and walk, and even just stop a few times. I felt so bad for her. I was digging deep trying to be helpful, I don't know if I was. I tried to just talk and not ask questions. I also told her to tell me to shut up if I was getting on her nerves.
By mile 24.5 Katie knew we were almost done and somehow she found her stride once more. She didn't walk through aid stations, she didn't slow her pace. She charged through to the finish like a champion.
The first time I heard about Katie was when she jumped in the race in OKC to help one of my friends. She hadn't planned on it, but when she noticed Stacey, my friend, struggling, she got in to carry her in from mile 20 to the finish.
I got the chance to be friends with this girl. So when I had an opportunity to help her out, I jumped at it. Because I know that she would have done the same for me.

This week another friend admitted he had the post-marathon blues. I jumped at the chance to bust his and my impending rut by finding some fun races. As chance would have it, a Monster Bash 5K was taking place in a few days. We agreed that the best way to have fun with this one was to dress up per recommendation.

Batman and Batgirl

Preparing for my first caped run

Finishing the Monster Bask 5k

It was last minute, but there were some easy Batman costumes to be found. Long story short, I had the most fun run as a super duo. I had already run 10 miles that morning and was just going to "have fun" with the 5K. But I also don't know how to slow down once a gun goes off. Nick was feeling much fresher than I and had way too much fun flying with his cape and turning to the runners we'd pass saying, "I'm Batman." His side kick Bat Girl wasn't as talkative, but held on to finish side by side.
We totally whipped Pac Man and in the last half mile was got Fred Flintstone too!
So it was all for fun and we had on capes that's why we didn't PR....yeah that's it. However, we were the 5th and 6th finishers over all and I was the 2nd female. Our time was 20:33....not too bad really.

It was the most fun I've had in 5k and Nick later said he was glad he got out there to run after almost a week without it.

We've had so much non-running community this month too. It's good to do life together with others.

Judah's 'Magnificent 7' Cowboy Birthday Party

Family, friends, ponies, weenies, s'mores...Yee-Haw!

Navigating corn maze with friends

My Mom dressed up as, "Lacy Hansen"

As a shy homebody, it's been invaluable to embrace a community. I wouldn't make through without the support and love of my friends and family. While I may be on an upswing, I'll have my down times and they'll do their part to pull me through.

Oh it goes without saying, these two are the best community ever. They're always behind the camera, cheering, and following me along. They were spotted by many at the Prairie Fire as they zoomed around to support me on their bike.
I'm nothing without my boys.

My support team and their sag wagon

Oh and finally, speaking of community, HOW FUNNY WAS THE HALLOWEEN EPISODE OF NBC'S COMMUNITY??!!

"Love That Dirty Water....Boston You're My Home!"

2010-10-21T12:02:00.000-05:00

As all the marathon world knows, Boston's registration filled up in record time this year. In less than 8 hours or something like that.
I was on the fence and even leaning more towards the "not this year" side. The night before registration opened, a last minute decision to go for it was made.
It took several attempts and eventually some help from the runners on Twitter, but I got in!

I'm not 100% sure we're going, but I know one little guy who was more excited about the possibility than anyone else!

He's so excited! I don't know what power Boston has over us, but this big birthday boy fell in love just as hard as we did!

Driving the Duck Boat on the Charles River

THE Finish Line

Rubbing John Harvard's toe for luck in Harvard Yard

Enjoying a bowl of 'Chowda'

"Boston Comma" or Common depending on how well you read :)

Boston Baked Beans!!

He became a big Cheers fan after this stop!

Judah's first time in the ocean, it was chilly, but he loved it!

This birthday boy brings me so much joy. I can't believe I've had him in my life for 7 years now. He wants me to run the Boston Marathon every year just so he can go back to his adopted home.

Judah, I'd run to the moon and back everyday if it could make you smile. I'm the luckiest mommy in the whole world. My breath was taken away when the doctor said, "It's a boy!!."
I haven't gotten it back yet.
Happy Birthday to my little man, I love you.

Prairie Fire Marathon 10-10-10

2010-10-16T22:16:00.000-05:00

Water cup near Mile 23

The Inaugural Prairie Fire Marathon has come and gone. There are still some reminders around Wichita that something big happened out in the streets on 10-10-10. From worn street markings to a little debris, there is enough evidence that Wichita just pulled off it's first urban marathon.

Red arrow marking turn in Riverside

Gu packet left behind

Several silver Gu packs are shining along the course

Red arrow still visible right before mile 25

I was lucky enough to be a part of it too.
There were several races taking place on Sunday. I lined up for the 8 AM start of the Full Marathon. We shared the start with the half marathoners, too.
It was a beautiful October morning. The temps were predicted to get unseasonably warm, but at the start it was around 60 degrees and sunny.

At the starting line with my Dad

There was a great crowd of runners and spectators. Unlike any year previous when the Heart of Wichita Marathon started in Derby.
The race started right on time and the crowd was very thick for the first 1/4 mile or so.
The loud speakers were placed all along the Arkansas River. It was great to have music cranked as we embarked on our 26.2 mile trek. I quickly said hello to many people as the herd started to find it's pace. It's wonderful knowing so many people in this running community!

At the start with one of many great training partners, Brad.

The race headed directly into downtown. There wasn't a ton of spectators, but there were enough to make some noise. By mile three we were headed into the College Hill Neighborhood and the crowds got very thick. Mile three is one block from our house and I was so surprised to see several of our neighbors out on Douglas cheering. I doubt they were out there for me, but it's nice to hear your name as you pass.

The course ran around College Hill park just before mile 4. Again, I was lucky enough to cross several friend's paths. Many people were out to support the runners, that was a wonderful feeling!

Nearing Mile 4 in College Hill Park

Just before mile 5 the race entered the Crown Heights Neighborhood. I came across an "unofficial" aid station here. Small kids were out with their parents filling Dixie cups with Powerade. That was wonderful. That sort of attitude has never existed in Wichita's Marathon past. It was another early sign of a great race future.
It was also near here that the half marathon course split from the full marathon.
I was able to met up with some runners I had gotten acquainted with through the Daily Mile. We shared our hopeful finish times and entered into Eastborough. This part of the course switches back through a neighborhood park. We had our first distant glances at the front runners. Many of them were our friends and/or acquaintances. It was great to shout out to them before we made the turn ourselves.
I also saw my friend, April Gochenour. She and I expected to be close in the race, however she had a strong lead on me from the beginning. She looked strong and was very far ahead of me.
We made the turn as another live band played in the park. This was the third live performance of the course.
We left Eastborough and quickly entered the Rockwood neighborhood. I was still running with the same group of runners at this point. It was nice to have a few faces to chat with as the paces clipped off.

Rounding mile 7 with an incredible group of runners

The course took it's first of two trips through Rockwood. The neighborhood is completely covered by trees. This was especially helpful as it was still very sunny and the temps were starting to climb. This was also the first time we encountered early starters. There was a full marathon start at 7 AM as well. My path was coming up behind some of them and I was also being crossed by others. This particular street, Armour, was also the return path into Rockwood, just before mile 11. It would have been useful for early starters to have a different bib color.

Heading to mile 8

I'm not sure of all the names of the neighborhoods between mile 8-10. These miles were the most twisting miles. This part of the course included sidewalks and footbridges. One sidewalk was a neighborhood bike and walking path that served as a connector between two neighborhoods. This was a nice scenic route, but it was definitely not great for momentum and pace.
I was fortunate enough to see a running partner and her new born baby just before the sidewalk started. I hadn't seen the baby yet and his little wave was just what I needed to get my mind off the side stitch I was developing.

Another personal bonus was coming up at mile 9.5. My massage therapist, Nancy Bowers, lives right on the course. She had offered her house to Kenton and Judah as a pit stop, as they were keeping up with me on the course by bike. Not only were they all there cheering at the house, she had food, water, and honey sticks for the runners. She's a marathoner. She gets it. My son had a blast hanging out at her house and passing out treats to the runners.

My son and my massage therapist's daughter passing out honey sticks at mile 9.5

By mile 10 my little group had changed. One had pressed on with a quicker pace, others had fallen back. I was traveling along through the wonderful shade of Woodlawn Village with a new friend named Greg. He'd been with me since mile 6. We kept together as we passed several groups of spectators. Many were out for one specific runner, but some were out in their drives to show their support for all. I passed many people I knew. Whether they were out for their family, or an early starter taking a pit stop, and even a few people hollering my name that I wasn't sure how they knew me, it was wonderful to be nearly to the half and feel such support. Greg asked after the 5th time I heard my name,
"Does everybody know you?"
Later on twitter I read a tweet,
"I just heard @lacyjhansen's running partner ask, "Does everyone know you?"
I felt so surrounded by a community on Sunday, that's for sure.
The race entered back into Rockwood, just like I saw previously with the early starters. At this point the course was two lanes thick of runners. It was awesome to see such a strong group coming. This really opened my eyes to how large the field had grown to.
Before the route turned back west, my new friend Greg bid me goodbye as he was going to pull back. I wished him well and pressed on.
I was still feeling good. I was happy to engage the crowd, when there was one. I kept telling them thank you for coming out, or simply wishing them a good morning. This seemed to waken a quiet crowd. It was great to have people out, but the runners needed some noise!

The route quickly ended up back in the Crown Heights Neighborhood. Mile 12 was in Crown Heights north. They were ready for runners. They had signs welcoming us and several people were lining the streets. There was music playing and even a block party celebration going on. This was my favorite part of the entire day. That was the best spirit all morning. I was just so proud of that neighborhood. Instead of griping about the street closings, they supported the entire event.

Just before the half we headed pass Watermark Books. Several of their employees are runners and were running that day. They had live music in the parking lot and a nice crowd enjoying 26.2 cent cups of coffee from the cafe.
The arrows pointed me back into College Hill. Mile 13.1 was on my street. There was a bright sign on a brick street that it was halfway over. The bricks don't bother me. I learned to run on that very street, I'm used to it. However I know others didn't like the footing. The surface wasn't an issue, but I was having issues by that point. I noticed I was fading. My energy had dropped. I wasn't having fun anymore. I got worried, there was a lot of pavement to cover still.
As we were sent back west down Douglas, the very route we had started on, I met up with another runner, DJ. He and I had briefly met a few time in the last 6 months. Now we were both in stride with each other, noticing the gentle downhill back into downtown.
DJ and I had covered several miles throughout the morning near each other and now we were sticking close once more. We lost each other just as the route turned onto the brick streets of Old Town. As I passed First Gear, one of the local running stores, I saw Raquel Stucky up on the steps stretching. I hadn't learned that she just won the woman's half marathon portion of the race. She hollered at me and I waved. It was nice to have any distraction at this point.
The route had begun sharing the course with the half marathoners once more back near mile 12. By my mile 15 through Old Town Square, most of the half marathoners I saw were walking the course.
I passed through Old Town and headed up towards St. Francis Hospital. I had been able to see April anytime the stretch ahead of me was straight. I hadn't seen her in a while due to all the turns. Because of the early start bibs being the same colors as the regular start a volunteer told me I was the 7th female. I was a little surprised at this news, but assumed he was wrong. I just hadn't seen that many females ahead of me.
I caught up to another friend. Jon has been running with my Saturday morning group most of the summer. Jon's a super hero. I joke and say he's nine-tenths leg. On his first marathon attempt in Wichita last October, he won. With some crazy fast time like 2:40 or something. When I saw him he was walking. Obviously he was not having a good day. We all thought his super powers would make up for the holes in his training. Apparently even Superman can't skip too many long runs. We ran together all the way past mile 19. It was quiet and hard. The half marathoners had turned off for their final miles into the finish and we were all alone. As we entered into beautiful Riverside, I didn't think I could keep up with wounded Superman. We ran through Oak Park and watched the disc golfers play their rounds. We crossed over the river and saw the awesome Riverside Castle. We turned through another shaded, quaint neighborhood. There was lots to see as we barely talked. However, there weren't many people there to see us. A few faithfuls were out ready to catch their runner. There was one cowbell just before an aid station, but other than the deep breathing of Jon and me, it was disappointingly quiet.
To my surprise Jon pushed me on after the aid station. He said he couldn't stay with me. I couldn't believe it. I felt horrible for him. I assumed his altered state was still going to smoke mine.
I carried on along the residential street. One side was houses, the other was Sims Golf Course. The route followed the golf course for quite a while. When the race got the toughest, the route got the loneliest.
While it was still mostly shaded, the weather had made a complete shift. The clouds had completely covered the sky and a cool breeze had lowered the temperatures. I really hadn't noticed. I was just doing the deduction of distance with each passing step.
As the path began it's course out of the golf course, a literal loop was required to fullfil the distance. I came across a friend who was riding his bike. He told me there was water up ahead and gave me hope that maybe this race was coming to an end.
As I began my switchback, I saw Aprils' face for the first time the whole morning. She was headed out as I was headed in. This is where the whole race changed for me.
I gave an interview this week and I think the writer captured the rest of the race very well. All of this happened as we were routed out of the golf course, through the literal Ghost town of The Old Cowtown Museum, pass the Art Museum, through Riverside Park, back through downtown and on the shared half marathon route. Across the Keeper of the Plains Bridge, and finally back down the Arkansas River, across the Lewis Street Bridge, and across the finish line in front of the Hyatt.

Just before mile 23, moving in to 2nd place

"April Gochenour, 31, of Rose Hill was in second place and running strong with Lacy Hansen, 29, of Wichita in third for the majority of the race.
Hansen knew that Gochenour was a strong runner and also a friend and didn’t expect to see Gochenour until the finish.
However, at mile 21, Hansen was able to see Gochenour for the first time since the beginning of the race at the switchback where Gochenour jokingly said, “Come get me”. At this point Hansen didn’t think she could catch her friend, “I was so worn out I didn't think I stood a chance.”
By mile 23, Hansen had Gochenour in her sights and caught up to Gochenour. Gochenour explained to Hansen that she had hit the wall at mile 16 and was just wanting to finish.
Hansen encouraged Gochenour by telling her "hang tough, you're almost done," and just hoped her own legs would carry her to the finish line as well.
Hansen finished strong in second place with a time of 3:19:51 just 32 seconds shy of her personal record. Gochenour held on for third with a time of 3:23:26." (From Karla Gregg's Article in The Examiner)

Mile 25, D.E.A.D.

Mile 25

Waving with all the energy I could find to Judah and Kenton

I had just heard my name over the loud speakers, passed my parents and several friends.

My son was bouncing up and down with his hand out for a high five, a reason to smile.

3:19:51

Best part of running: Stopping!

Videos and pictures can not capture what it's really like to finish a marathon. As far as finishing the Prairie Fire Marathon, I had the best view. I didn't know how I was going to get to the end. I was barely moving at mile 25. I had walked through the final aid station and I didn't have anything but a remembrance of a desire to finish. Apparently that was enough. I didn't finish strong, I just held on. I didn't meet my hopes for that day, I just got lucky everyone else wasn't having a better day. I watched a lot of people come to grips with their humanity this past Sunday. The strong became weak. The fit became fragile. The prepared became survivors.
The marathon is always a humbling experience and 10-10-10 was no exception. As I rounded the final turn of this wonderful new marathon. I was once more humbled. I was blessed enough to have had friends all along the way. And in the final strides I was being welcomed in from battle. I looked all around and had a family of believers bringing me in. I believe heaven will be like this one day. A line of those who won't give up the faith, welcoming me home. My God uses the marathon to teach me so many things. Sunday I learned that no "marathon" is run with out the love of friends.

I was SPENT

Most of my Saturday morning crew. They make me the runner I am.

My Dad after his Half Marathon PR. He started this all. I wouldn't have gone 1 mile without him.

Dane Rauschenberg handing out age group medal. 1st in Age Group.

Receiving Female Runner up award.

You can see where I really fell apart towards the end.

Prairie Fire Marathon Teaser Highlights

2010-10-11T17:46:00.000-05:00

It's the day after the marathon. I'm tired and sore. It's all kind of fuzzy right now. Before I dig out every story and picture, here are the highlights of our city's first urban marathon and my 6th marathon.


I was the anonymous runner for the special marathon weekend wrap around

Marathon and Half Marathon Start (I'm starting with my Dad)

Where everything changed. My dear friend April lost her huge lead on me and I moved into 2nd near mile 23


Faking a smile and finding a 26th wind to burst it home, felt like being welcomed into heaven

Lacy Finishing 2nd Over at Prairie Fire Marathon from Kenton & Lacy Hansen on Vimeo.

Why Not Wichita??

2010-10-06T18:00:00.000-05:00

It's Taper week. The marathon is on Sunday. I've never been so busy leading up to a local race before. It's been good though. It's been rewarding to to help out and do my best to promote this inaugural race. Wichita is not a marathon city....yet. Many people are still unaware of what's really getting ready to happen. Kenton and I have really tried to use our connections and help make Wichita a marathon city.

We drove the course this week and really scoped out the best places to watch from. We also got to visit with many of the businesses that are along the route. Hopefully, the buzz will spread and the city will come out on Sunday to support the runners. Spectators make the race.

Some of my favorite race memories are from spectators.
- Small children handing out orange slices in Boston
- Kids having high five competitions in Boston, seeing who could get the most
- Being offered hot bacon in OKC from a resident
- Being cheered for by name (printed on bib) from someone else's mom
- Reading the signs from the girls at Wellesley College (Kiss Me I'm.......)
- Being cheered for by a "more cowbell" look-a-like in OKC
- Being served Gatorade from Darth Vador
- Having my tiny nephew and son hold up their "home-made" signs
- Seeing Judah hold up a sign from his entire kindergarten class

My Fan Club in 2007

Heart Break Hill, 2010 With Mrs. Johnson's Class' sign

Kenton is the best "Marathon Spectator" known to man. He wanted to make sure he did his part to help The Prairie Fire Marathon be the best it can be. He made a site for spectators. Here you will see info about the best locations, the location of the booked live bands, deals from local businesses, and views from the mile markers.
http://seetheprairiefire.com/#

Please check it out and contact us with any updated information you have.

Mostly, come out and have a blast! My massage therapist happens to live right on the route. She was making her plans for what she's going to offer the runners on Sunday. Another reason why Nancy Bowers is the best therapist in town!!
http://www.bowersmassage.com/

Another local runner, Karla Gregg, developed a full review of the course and a turn by turn video.

She also reviewed the course in her articles for The Examiner.
http://www.examiner.com/running-in-wichita/the-wichita-experience-on-the-wichita-marathon-course-part-i

http://www.examiner.com/running-in-wichita/the-wichita-experience-on-the-wichita-marathon-course-part-ii

I enjoyed my training run on the course three weeks ago. It ran through my favorite parts of Wichita. One surprise gem was right before mile 24. A friend from Twitter, @jenniferlkeller, left me a message on the Red Cross sign.

Red Cross Mile 24 Shout Out from Kenton & Lacy Hansen on Vimeo.

That was so surprising to see. It was also encouraging to see the community starting to get behind our little marathon attempt.
The Wichita Eagle has never covered much about local running and especially the previous marathon. I was surprised again when I got to speak to the sports writer this past week. He was preparing TWO stories before the marathon. To make things even more exciting, last night I got a last minute message about being in a photo shoot for a special "Wrap-Around" insert for Friday's paper. Twitter friend and local photog, @travisheying, let little 'ol me run up and down the river right in from of Wichita's "Citgo" sign. At mile 25 in Boston the gigantic Citgo sign serves as the "ALMOST THERE!!" marker. Our local Keeper of the Plains statue will signify that for us on Sunday.

Running back and forth for the camera.

Ever so naturally pacing back and forth

There's a buzz for sure. I've never been this involved before. But I believe it can be great. Here's to hoping Sunday will start a new era in Wichita. Here's to Wichita's first year as a Marathon City!!

Rosstoberfest 5k 2010

2010-10-04T15:25:00.000-05:00

The marathon is about 10-14 days earlier than it has previously been in Wichita. That's fine. My only dilemma was deciding if I could participate in the neighborhood 5K so close to the marathon? Judah wanted to run the kids race and my parents were already signed up. I also kinda wanted to see if I could add to my beer glass collection. I've run the Rosstoberfest 5K every year and 10/2 was the third annual.So against better judgment I signed up for a 5K one week before the marathon. I ran with my group at 6 AM and covered 8 miles. And then I lined up to run 3.1 more miles at 9:30.
I had no plans about how I was going to run, not until I saw I was the lead female.
Since the charming course winds through College Hill, the route loops several round-a-bouts. At the first round-a-bout I saw only men make the loop.
So once more against better judgement I thought, "how many times are you going to get this chance?" I went for it with what I thought was still a moderate pace pulling ahead to win my first 5k.
Rosstoberfest has one of the best local courses, if you like unique features over great running surfaces.

I ran the brick streets, the looping round-a-bouts, the park paths, and finally off the pavement through the grass and up the College Hill sledding hill straight to the finish line.
When I saw the clock I thought maybe I might set a PR, but I just ran out of gas. I clocked a 19:58. That's 2 seconds slower than my personal record. That's ok, I'm tapering afterall.

Beautiful Morning for a 5K!

I later learned that the next female was minutes behind me. I guess I could have taken it easier. I was just very lucky. Last year I ran one second faster and came in 6th place overall. The fast girls didn't show up this year. The men's division was not so scattered however. New records were set and several finished under 16 minutes within seconds of each other.
There's a great celebration after the race. Beer and brats for the runners and this year Freddy's Frozen Custard showed up too. I got to see several friends and chat with lots of people. One them being Mrs. Fairweather Runner and parts of her posse. The race actually passed her house twice. Her fan club had nice cozy lawn chairs and a stereo pumping as I passed.

Katie, Beka (Fairweather Runner), and Me

After a bit of chatting and catching my breath the calls for the one mile start were being made. I had to go fish Judah out of the playground and have him dump the sand out of his shoes. (Every runner does that before the big race, right?")
Like a true runner, he did not sport the event shirt at the race. He lined up with several kids and waited for the signal. He wanted to run alone again. We screamed as he passed and then went to the top of the hill to wait for him.

KIDS For Ross 1 Mile


And they're off!

Final Stretch up the hill

Judah giving it his all

The kid;s race is always the best part of the day for us. Judah set a new PR by nearly a full minute. We were so proud of him. As he ran the hill we forgot any other parents were watching their kids and screamed and yelled as he passed. Between me, Kenton, and my parents, he had a whole swarm of adults running after him as he finished.


Judah's 9:07 Finish

He promptly crossed the line and got 2 scoops of frozen custard! He's exactly 1/2 of each of his parents!

A "friend" from Daily Mile brought his little boy to run the one miler too. His little guy, Brayden, is about a year younger than Judah. Brayden clocked an amazing 8:37. He took home first place and Judah took home second.
Before the day was over I was now real-life friends with Daily Miler, Jeremiah, and his speedster of a son, Brayden.

Brayden and Jeremiah

The boys worked hard for these medals. Judah also ate his weight in custard and brats!


My favorite runners of the day!

I was able to take home another beer glass to add to my collection and much to my surprise they paid me for my overall finish. All questions about whether I should have run went right out the window!

I didn't know there was prize money, or a video going. I was totally surprised and very humbled. I know that my time wasn't all that fast for most races. I guess it was just my day.

(Oh and the results and the paper have me listed at 19:45. I wish! The picture, the Garmin, and the original results all say 19:58)
http://runwichita.org/siteadmin/raceresults_file/401.txt
http://www.kansas.com/2010/10/03/1524433/rosstoberfest-5k.html

The Times They Are A Changin'

2010-09-17T12:57:00.000-05:00

These new sights have caught my eye the past week while I was out running. They make me very happy. While out in Colorado, I felt so much safer on the road. They have several bike lanes and just an all around better attitude about bikers and runners sharing the road. In Boston I was confused why the cars kept stopping for me. It's refreshing to think Wichita might become a healthier city very soon!

Several of these signs are covering the east side of town!

2nd Street Bike way is really happening!! Being painted as we speak!

Happy Friday!

10-10-10

2010-09-10T12:17:00.000-05:00

That convenient little date is exactly one month from today. Many organizations have tried to jump on that catchy set of numbers for their event. The Chicago Marathon and The Boston Athletic Association Half Marathon just to name a few.
Another organization, closer to my home jumped on it too. 10-10-10 will mark the date of the first ever Prairie Fire Marathon. Wichita retired it's 30 year old, "Heart of Wichita Marathon," last October. An obscure 26.2 mile run from the small town of Derby through the outskirts of Sedgwick county and finally a few tiny miles into an unaware part of Wichita. No one knew it was happening, except for the runners and their families. So, about 300-400 people total even knew about it. The paper didn't report on it. The 3 major news stations didn't mention a word. But you better believe all the news fronts are always front and center when the local animal shelter has an event in the park with dogs and their owners for a social gathering...... but I digress.

So a year ago, word was given to show up at the arena for a press conference regarding this "new" marathon that was supposedly in the works.

I attended and listened to all the buzz.

It was actually exciting to be present for the start of a new season. Like so many of my fellow runners had mentioned, "Why not Wichita?" Cities similar to our size have huge success with their races. From the high particpation to to incredible support of the spectators. In less than 10 years, our neighbors to the south, Oklahoma City, turned their marathon into a top 10 "must run" race.


11-9-09, I look so serious and skeptical. I was just listening :)

They announced that the new marathon would include a half marathon, a relay, and the Mayor's 5K Challenge. However, possibly the best announcement was that the course was brand new and get this, it's actually going to go through the city of Wichita!! How clever :)


Prairie Fire Marathon Press Conference

The map was introduced later and it's going to go right pass our neighborhood and through a lot of the area we already train at. It's going to tour the main hubs in the central part of the city. Some are upset about the amount of turns, but I honestly have no opinion, I just want to support my city's new race.

I'm sure there are things to complain about, but I'm just excited to hear a lot of people say they're going to run one of the events and most of them have new run before! That's a victory right there. Usually the only thing this city gets excited about is food, so this could be a new season.

My "Fire Starter" Shirt


Meet "Sparky," and yeah, I think he's got fire coming out his back end too!

So, I guess that's my official annoucement rgarding my fall marathon plans. I plan to run my heart out on 10-10-10. I plan to support my city's new marathon and once more be changed by putting my body, mind, and soul through such a challenge.
If you've never dared to take on the 26.2 monster, I implore you to be brave. It's worth it. Once you cross that finish line (whether running, walking, or crawling), for the rest of your life you'll know that anything is possible.

http://www.prairiefiremarathon.com/front_page

We So Crazy!

2010-09-08T15:08:00.000-05:00

So what do you do just hours after a Mountain 1/2 Marathon? Sleep? Rest? Ice bath? Stretch? Nah!!!!!
You haul your mountain bikes up the ski lifts and attempt to ride down on the trails!!! Right?

Sometimes even I think I have problems. However, I knew within hours the muscle pain would be so intense I wouldn't be able to try mountain biking, so I ate lunch and headed back out.

Silly little Kansas girl, what are you doing?

Kenton and I rode the gondola up to the fun park and then got on the lifts to take us and our bikes to the top of the peak. We really didn't know what all we were getting into, but that's not our style to analyze things too much. (Like, checking into the details of a mountain race you sign up for to learn it's going to take you up 12,500 feet...) Besides, we'd probably never do much if we knew all the details!

Don't get too attached to those shorts!

So we got up to the top, put on our helmets and followed the signs, how hard could it be, right?

After the first switchback, I was scared! I have pad breaks and I guess disc brakes are really what you need up there. I got real friendly with pumping my brakes as to not lock them and skid out of control.

It didn't seem so hard to Kenton...yet

Kenton was more comfortable than I was, even though he had to stop me once to see if I "meant to do that?" There were plenty of runs that I just held on and hoped it would level out before the turn.
I watched one rider wipe out, jump up, dust off, and take off again. That didn't help me get more comfortable.

Not enough O2 to grow up there

We stopped for a minute so I could, uh, you know 'find a tree.' And then Kenton took the lead. He took it alright. Right around a turn too fast and laid the bike down really hard. He jumped up to reveal new scrapes and shredded pants. (Later we realized it went all the way through to the skin and he earn quite a nice wound on his tail...awesome, "we paid for this?")

We switched trails and made it down with no more incidences. I was happy to not have increased the scrapes on my legs and that we didn't get seriously hurt.

Shredded through 2 layers, pic doesn't do justice!

I'm pretty fearless when it comes to "sacrificing my body" in the name of recreation, however, I'm not so sure I'll be adding mountain biking to my list of "interest." Kenton wasn't soured by his experience, he just wants to wear longer pants and thicker underwear next time. :)

I don't know what the big deal was...*I* didn't get hurt :)

Breck Crest 1/2 Mountain Marathon

2010-09-05T22:25:00.001-05:00

Boston Celebration Jacket, "My Intimidation Factor"

I left the condo to a beautiful crisp morning. It was about 45 degrees at the start. I wore my Boston Celebration jacket. I jokingly told Kenton that it was my "intimidation factor." Kenton walked down with me and we chatted in the cold morning air until it was time to line up. Thanks to social media and specifically, The Daily Mile, I met a "friend" who was running before the gun went off. Brian is from Nebraska and he was just as ill prepared for this oxygen as I was. We chatted a bit and then began the race. One thing about mountain racing is that there's not much talking on the way up, no one can breathe, they're all saving what air they have.

7:30 Start

The course quickly ran past our condo and Great Great Aunt Faye was waiting on the balcony to wave at me. I've got the best 92 year old aunt in the world!

Heading up to mile 5

Once we passed the condo it quickly hit the trails. It was beautiful and tree covered. I huffed and puffed and did my best to hold a pace. Eventually the steep grade gave way to the opening mountain range and my first "I give!, I'm walking." I wasn't alone, we were getting high. After the mile 5 aid station there were a few more tree covered yards and a tricky creek to cross on a log.

Water crossing

From mile 5.5 to about 6.5 it was all up hill above tree line. There was no running from anyone at that point. It was just a power hike in the strong winds.

Heading out of the trees about mile 5.5

The sights were amazing but if I looked too long, I'd trip. I pulled off and snapped several pictures. All the while I was in shock.

Walking runners

I did not realize that I was going to be climbing a mountain when I signed up. I couldn't breathe, the wind was literally blowing me around, and it wasn't even half way yet!

Looking back at the runners (tiny ants)

Pictures don't do justice!

Looking down at the tiny ants

I finally made it to the top. All the people below looked like ants, but I was glad to be above them and see the trail ahead. I looked down to Breckenridge and then immediately I began to enjoy my run. It was "all down hill from there."

Looking up at the tiny ants

The very top, about 12,500. Around mile 6.5

One more peak, the it's all down hill

Breckenridge down below

It was tricky not to lose control, but it was so great to be flying down the mountain.

The path turned to service roads and they were very rocky. As long as I controlled my pace I was fine. The huge loose rocks were a little painful on my feet, but my mood had turned to pure joy. I was up in the mountains, taking in the amazing views, and enjoying every step. What a blessing.

Finishing happy

The course ran on roads and finally ended up on some great wooded trails. I had breath to talk with the other runners who were just as happy as me to be heading down.
Finally, we hit paved roads and crossed a few streets and it was over!
I had already forgotten about how tough it was and was just so pleased that I had such a great morning. No spills, no major issues, and a joyful attitude.

I was whipped!

Officially I was clocked at 2:34:10. That's about an hour slower than my flatland PR, that might give you some idea of the conditions out here. I was the fourth in my age group, about 1/2 an hour behind the top female. I'll take it. Not too bad for a little Kansas girl running from 9,600 feet up to 12,500 and back.

My Daily Mile friend, Brian from Nebraska (Happy to be done!)

A smile is better than a trophy!

Acclimating

2010-09-04T18:26:00.002-05:00

Our first night in Breckenridge was christened by visiting a karaoke bar. The altitude didn't effect Kenton's lungs enough to prevent him from embarrassing me. He brought down the house with his rendition of "Use Somebody" and Huey Lewis', "The Power of Love." There were many other great performances from brothers and cousins. And.... I may have been forced to sing, "Total Eclipse of the Heart." Maybe.

We woke to a beautiful cool morning. The gourmet food was flowing, but I set out for my first acclimation run. I felt like a slug, but took in the incredible view.

We've refused to use our car while were here. So we rode up to the brewery to meet our family for lunch. I had an amazing ahi tuna spinach salad. That should be a great pre-race lunch!

After lunch we rode the gondola to the slopes and rode the lifts up to the top off the alpine slides. We rode once and got stuck behind a slow rider. The powers that be let us have a do-over. We were stoked and planned to fly as fast as possible. I rode with Judah and Kenton gave me his iPhone to take a video.

Kenton & Judah go alpine sliding from Kenton & Lacy Hansen on Vimeo.

Kenton took off before us and then we pushed the speed on our turn. Well, apparently the speed was too much. We flipped on a turn. My mama bear instincts kicked in. I cradled Judah in one arm, protecting him from getting burned down the concrete slide. My tech/nerd wifing instincts kicked in too. I held Kenton's iPhone up with the other hand. I covered the essentials. The baby and the phone survived with minimal scratches!

I on the other hand tore through my shirt, tore open my elbow, and tore up my knee and leg.

We jumped back on as quick as possible to make sure the next rider didn't slam into us. Judah was a little gun shy, but we made it to the bottom expecting to show off our wounds to Kenton. However, he had crashed just as hard if not harder. His arms and legs were all torn up too.

Lacy & Judah Crash from Kenton & Lacy Hansen on Vimeo.

So, our free ride ended up coming at a price after all. Good times though. We told Judah that even though it hurt and it was scary, we'll come back tomorrow for more.

I picked up my bib number for the race in the morning and got my shirt. It's called the Breck Crest Marathon. I'm only running the half. It's going to tough enough for me at this altitude, then I saw how high we're going in addition. Awesome.

Going to have a good dinner and a good night's sleep. Here's to God's favor in the morning!

Base Camp

2010-09-03T19:21:00.001-05:00

We rolled in to Brighton, CO at about 3 AM our time, 2 AM their time. Uncle George left the light on for us!
After too few hours of sleep, Judah, who slept for a solid 8, came bounding in with mountain fever. I tried to suppress his excitement to no avail.
"Okay, I'm up!"
I woke to find various aunts, uncles, and cousins scattered through the house.
Judah and I were quickly put to work, picking the gooseberry harvest from Aunt Kathy's garden. We're loading enough food for 18 people, most of it grown right in Brighton. I wish we had all these farms at home.
Cousin Matty decided to take off on a run with me. He's in from NYC and his sea level lungs couldn't hang for long. He released me to go on and I did.
Brighton is just outside Denver and there's an amazing view of the mountains. The mountains did their best to distract as I was noticing the altitude sucking my air. I took a solid 3-5 minute break after 5 miles. I quickly recovered and made if back to Uncle George's for fresh garden produce.
Everyone loaded their cars to the brim and began the trip up to Breckenridge.
We grabbed a quick tasty lunch at Panda Express, potty breaked, and now we're rolling up hill with our 92 year old Great Great Aunt Faye keeping us very entertained.
We just drove through a mountain! What a beautiful state! Next stop, Breckenridge!

Trippin'

2010-09-02T21:14:00.001-05:00

We used to fret over the amount of Swedish Fish and Red Vines we packed for road trips. Today we spent 30 minutes trying to fit 4 bikes in a Mazda 3.
Oh, how life changes!
Off to Breckenridge, CO!

Bittersweet

2010-08-25T16:01:00.000-05:00

I miss my little guy. I'm pretty blue without him at home. Doesn't really make me feel like blogging. I'm blessed to love him so much.
Hopefully I'll still feel this way after he comes home and destroys the house :)

1st Day of 1st Grade

Walking to School with Daddy

I Like it Salty!

2010-08-16T15:26:00.000-05:00

The Salty Dog Triathlon has come and gone once again. As always it was so well organized and fun, well...that depends on who you ask and your definition of fun. I had fun.

Pre-Race. Me and Kenton. My Dad and pals Dennis and Adam.

The alarm goes off early for this race. Since it's about a 45 minute drive to Hutchinson and the race begins at 7, it's tough being too chipper, but I managed. I actually had a wonderful morning. Laughing and giggling with Kenton as he met an hour of the day he hasn't seen in a year.

We got to Carey Park in time to park our bikes and lay out our stuff. We headed over to the 6:30 AM race meeting and then over to get "marked." It's always weird letting complete strangers write on your arms and legs with permanent markers.I feel the need to chit chat as they're crouched down writing on my thighs. Not sure if that makes it less awkward or not.

There were 200 entrants in the triathlon and I was #141. So even with the 7AM start, I had a while to wait. Salty Dog does a individual start every 5 seconds.

So Kenton, my Dad, and I spent a good deal of time chatting as we waited for our time to get closer.

Serpentine Swimming

We all gave it our all. We ran wet and happy for our bikes as soon as the swim was over.

My Dad's just happy the swim is over and he's breathing!

Kenton's thinking, "I should have trained for this!"

I look like an idiot. But at least you can tell I was happy! Good thing too, because my swim time stunk! 10:41 for 400M!

I really goofed on my first transition. I spent way too much time fumbling with things that don't matter like my wet hair and my ear buds. My transition 4:30, that made me really mad later.
The bike course is 5 laps around the golf course. It was an awesome morning. No wind and cooler temps. I had a blast on the nice road bike I borrowed from a friend. I never saw my Dad. I smiled big when I passed Kenton and told him that he shouldn't have encouraged me to borrow the bike! It made a world of difference!

My Dad rockin' his antique Peugeot!

Kenton rolling out for 10.8 miles

Best decision of the race was to borrow friend's Giant OCR2. I passed Kenton within the first mile!! Never ever beat him on the bike before! 10.8 Miles in 34:14. Fastest ride recorded ever!

Thankfully, my 2nd transition was much faster. I just had to hang my bike and dump my helmet. I hit the run course and still felt really really good. I ran and fumbled with my Garmin, switching it over to Run Mode. But once I got that squared I got my head in the run and just tried to get my legs used to the new activity.
Thankfully I don't have to think about running, I just go. About a mile into it I could see my Dad up ahead. He smiled big when he saw me coming and said, "I wondered when you were going to catch me!"
We exchanged highfives and encouragements and I pressed on pass him.
Clouds had rolled in and it had become just the perfect day for this race. I rounded the last corner of the new run course and saw my Mom waiting. I once again smiled for the camera. I was just so so blessed to be in such a great mood, I didn't care what I looked like.

Waving at my mom. She said, "Where's your Dad?!" (He started the run before me) I hollered, "Behind me!" 5K in 21:29. Fastest Female run time!!

My Pops finishing up! He told my mom to smack him if he ever wants to sign up for this again. He did great, he'll be there again!

Bringing up the rear. We tried to start the wave, but there were only three of us doing it.

Several people from Wichita. Apparently I wasn't important enough to wait for. I was just getting water! Sheesh!

Kenton was a whipped dog and accepted his defeat to me once more. But he started his diet today and his training plan for next year!

My Final time was 1:12:01. 2 minutes faster than last year. 2 minutes too slow to place in the top 3 of my age group. I'll be honest, I'm used to placing and it kinda burned to not have done well enough to at least claim 3rd. But, 'thems the breaks.'
And to be even more honest, I have had such a terrible time learning to balance my running, my rest, my son, my marriage, my motivation, and my passion for running this past season that to feel this joyful and excited about an event was all the treasure I could ask for. I've been battling major burnout since last August. I had hit a major funk at the last Salty Dog and I've been forcing myself to participate in many events. Even in Boston I was a burntout wreck and I didn't fully enjoy that day.
So, this race served as a placeholder to look back at a year of hard emotional training. I couldn't have been more pleased with the joy I felt about using my gifts and passion to accomplish another challenge.
Lord willing we'll be back next year with even bigger victory stories to tell!

My "Trophy." I won a door prize to a kitchen store. I stopped in on the way out of town and scored an Oil Mister!! Now I can spray olive oil on my beloved popcorn!

OFFICIAL RACE RESULTS: http://www.hutchrec.com/ecc/wellness/page.php?id=64

My Two Dads

2010-08-12T12:41:00.001-05:00

I was caught off guard when I saw this today. I thought it was going to be cheesy right down to the Josh Groban song.
I quickly found myself sobbing like a baby.
I'm lucky to have a renewed relationship with my earthly father. I'm also blessed to have found faith in a heavenly father.
Running was used to teach me about their love for me.

In 2007 I ran my second marathon. My Dad ran the last several miles with me. I had a rough race. I had hit the wall early after a bad start.
He stuck by me until the finish. As I struggled and wavered. He helped me finish my race.
Only later did he tell me,
"All I wanted to do was pick you up and carry you."

I can finish any race because I know my Fathers will carry me if I need them to.

A Day In The Life

2010-08-04T15:48:00.000-05:00

I've often seen other's capture moments of their days. I love to see what a real day consist of for others. No one asked me, but I thought I'd share one of our days anyway.

A Day In The Life

Tuesday, August 3, 2010.

I was already up, but hadn't turned the alarm off. I also wanted to take a picture. So as the 3rd alarm of the morning blared I finally got a picture. (I had been up since 7)

First thing is first. Finally. After claiming to be a Christian for 15 years, I've only had a solid year of finding quite time daily. I'm so glad I start all my mornings this way.

Waking up the troops. I took this only after I completely uncovered his body. He sleeps with his feet on the pillow and his head buried deep in the blankets. He's afraid of monsters and feels safer this way.

Making Kenton's lunch. This picture looks horrible. But I make a fresh salad every morning to go with his lunch. We both agree regular carrots taste better than baby carrots. So, you will hear the chopping of vegetables every morning.

The Filling of the Waters. 64 oz. + bike bottle for me. 24oz. bottle with name written on it for little man.

Who needs Body Glide? I have to use Vaseline to keep my narrow shoes from rubbing.

Quickly loading Steve Runner's newest episode for listening pleasure.

Time was ticking. Needed to leave by 8:15 and the Bret Michaels headband wasn't folded yet.

One Mommy, one kid, and one bike. Loaded and ready to roll.

And we're off.

Arrive at the YMCA, just in time to be typically late for the start of Judah's 8:30 class.

Ready to ride.

Rolling downhill is my favorite part of a bike ride!

Cheap bike drink break. My water bottle cage is too small to safely pull out my water and attempt to put it back in mid-ride.

I returned from my ride. Saw a swim lane was opened. I ran to the locker room, threw on my suit, hosed off, and rushed to the pool. The one lane was now occupied by a swim class. Awesome.

My only thought was to use the 20 minutes I had left by running on the track. I rushed back in to the locker room, threw back on stinky clothes and ran to the track. I squeezed in 2 miles in the remaining 13 minutes.

On our way to the car, we had to rescue a caterpillar. Naturally.

Pit stop at the library. After just completing his summer reading goal (226 books), he was eager to get some DVDs to bring home.

HOLD THE PHONE! Diet Dr. Pepper is on sale and we were almost out. I haven't purchased Cheez-It's, well, possibly ever. However, if you bought 3 12 packs, they were free. We both were happy.

Home. Loading bike miles via Garmin 405 ANT wireless technology. LOVE IT!

LUNCH TIME! Judah's lunch of choice this week. Cheese quesadilla, carrots, strawberries, and oyster crackers. He just discovered sour cream this summer. He's in heaven.

Half of my lunch. Kenton and I both have a "big salad" every lunch. (Notice the wash rag napkin? Yeah, that's our 'green' solution to paper napkins. They're cheaper than cloth napkins and work just as well. But, when company comes over we're too embarrassed to offer a wash rag, so we'll pull out old birthday party napkins.)

The rest of lunch. Looks appetizing? Doesn't it? Kind of not. This is Kenton's accidental recipe. Tuna, Italian dressing and curry. It's my favorite!! And on a rice cake. No gluten for this kid. Plus an orange to round it off. All while I check the "Twitters."

Ah...finally! The 1st Diet Dr. Pepper of the day!

So gross. I hadn't showered yet.

That's Better.

Special day! We were off to my massage therapist.

Judah had to come along. He was loaded with DVDs and earphones.

Post massage hairstyle. Oh well, it's totally worth it!

He did such a great job, a frozen drink from Quik Trip was deserved!

Cheap drink summer! 49 cent drinks are addictive, especially when it was 108 degrees!

10 minutes later it reached 109. New record high.

Daddy's HOME!! He had to check the "Twitters" too.

Judah had VBS and we had a quiet car once he was dropped off.

Tempted to go out for spring rolls, we wisely went home and attempted to make our own.

Verdict: we need more practice.

After a frustrating ride home, (apparently, Judah was making fart noises during the lesson at church), I dug out his dirty clothes. Only newbie mommies leave stickers on the dirty clothes. It should only take one ruined shirt to learn that lesson. I'm so glad I remembered. This is my favorite shirt he has.

The movie I put in the queue arrived!! It was awesome to revisit this movie as an adult.

Favorite line: "If I'm not here when you get back, I'll either be at the gym or the gun club."

Bowl number 1. A girl's got to carbo load some how!

So there's a day in my life. I thought it was funny to do this project yesterday because it was such an abnormal day. Oh well. That's life.

What did you do today?

Deadman's Float

2010-08-02T11:41:00.000-05:00

The Salty Dog Triathlon is in less than 2 weeks. I've been in the pool over 10 times now. However, that does not make me a swimmer. But we're set to have fun. If nothing else, fun laughing at my awesome swim skills!
I've developed a consistent, yet slow, version of the breast stroke. I can't seem to find my groove on any other stroke yet.

I'm going to get crushed by my friends this year. They all got new road bikes and hit the pool much harder.
I keep chanting to myself, "Make it up in the run."
I just hope I can.
It's good to be challenged.

What are you challenging yourself with lately?

Stayin' Cool

2010-07-17T12:41:00.000-05:00

I'm beginning to think I really hate this weather!
It's 80 degrees by 7am most days and the humidity it RE-Donk-QUE-lous!!!!
I have to bring dry clothes to change into during the week, just so I can get in my car. I've been getting my workouts in while Judah is in a "Fun-Fit" class at the gym. So, my time is limited and my schedule gets me out in a pretty toasty time of the day. But, he has got to be priority over running, so I will not complain. I have nothing to complain about anyways. I'm a spoiled runner who doesn't have a "punch the clock" job to get to. I get to "sleep-in" most days (I promise I'm up by 7 at the very latest!). I live in a city with incredible running paths. I have incredible people to encourage me. And I have a wonderful family to enjoy as soon as I'm done.
But alas, it's the hottest time of year and only a few things have been getting me through it this past week.
1. My ipod came back to life!!!!!
My Dad gave me an engraved Shuffle in 2008 and I absolutely love it! I wear it clipped on my shorts and have his message to me in my sights during every run.

I got caught in a downpour last summer and my Shuffle never played another beat. While cleaning my desk last week I found it thought, "what the hey." I put it on the charger and the glorious "do-doo" sound of usb connection rang through the office!! I was afraid to move, for fear it would all go away. But it's been over a week and it works just fine!
While I had another option for listening to music, having this gift back on my side made me smile so big. Every girl needs to have a constant reminder of her Dad's support.

2. My hair has finally grown! Why is this good? Because now I don't have to wait for hours for it to dry or stand under a hot blow drier. I can go for the surfer look and not embarrass my son in public!

*Halloween 2009*

*Independence Day, 2010*

So, I'm super happy about the hair but a funny thing happened as a result of my short hair this fall.
I struggle to do anything girly 'the right way.' So when my short hair presented a running/hair issue I panicked. Pins, barretts, stretchy headbands, and hats were all part of my attempted arsenal. Nothing worked. I still found myself messing with said paraphernalia during every run. I was getting so irritated. So out of desperation I grabbed the blue bandanna from the drawer. I folded it and tied it on. It was like magic! The cheap cheap piece of fabric kept my hair back and it didn't budge.
From that day on, I don't think I've left the house for a run without the dark blue bandanna. It has to be the dark blue ones (I have 2), I tried other colors, for some reason, they're not the same length and they fall off.

All that to say, I accidentally have become recognizable by my blue bandanna. People will tell me they recognized me at a run, "You had your blue bandanna on, right?" Or, "I was just looking for the blue bandanna." So, that's been fun, but what I don't like is, like I told Kenton several months ago, "I've accidentally become the running Bret Michaels."

* October 2009, Rosstoberfest*

*April 2010, Boston Marathon*

*May 2009,Bank of America River Run*

So now I guess I'll just own it. Yes, that's me, the one who looks like Bret Michaels. How most of those girls look so cute out there, is beyond me. I'm a sweaty, hair flying mess when I'm running. But I guess every rose has it's thorn, right?

3. Well, it's not necessarily a good thing, but it's not all that bad either. I promised myself I would cross train more. I was spent from marathon training and I vowed to mixed it up more. So in the last few weeks I've drug out my road bike and given it the 'ol college try. I'm barely turning in the 'as-seen-on-tv mail order college' try. But I'm working on it. The best thing I can say is that even though I'm slow, it's been a nice break from running a few days a week. I briefly get excited for a change, then I'm reminded how hard it is to cycle fast. Kenton and I rode 30 miles together this week and I was also reminded how much better he is at it than I am. He really pushed the pace and I struggled to keep up. However, his endurance isn't as strong as mine and by mile 15 he was tapped and I was still kickin'. I told him, "I could ride slow all day and never tire." Not sure that's a great skill, just an observation.

And to add insult to my damaged ego, I have to get my butt in a pool this week. Yes, it's great cross training, but it's also the first leg of any triathlon. And once again Kenton, my Dad, and I are all signed up for a sprint triathlon in a few weeks.

*August 2009, Salty Dog Tri*

I'd like improve my time from last year and I can't phone in the swim. So, I think I'm going to need Judah to help me. This kid has become a great swimmer this year.

I seriously need some stroke development. I inherited my Dad's swimming style. He says he swims like Forest Gump. I will be certain to be practicing my doggy paddle this week. I want to finish well and not get beat by, oh I don't know, a little girl.

*Kenton finishing the Dog next to a Pup*

Oh yeah and did I mention, this race is really just between Kenton and I? The title of "fastest triathlete in the house" is up for grabs. Currently, I reign. But if you can believe it he has 2 wins to my 1. So, yeah I'll dish out all the trash I can. I could clarify about that picture, but I'll just let it say that yeah, that little girl crossed before him.

4. We celebrated 8 years of marriage on Monday! We actually went on the 30 mile bike ride as part of our celebration (That's normal, right?). While we were out in no man's land surrounded by corn fields, Kenton asked, "Are we just lucky?" Marriages all around us have crumbled and we know of how hard other's are struggling. But we both laughed because we know we're not lucky. We've had and will surly have our share of hardships. We have just been blessed with spirits that will not give up. I mentioned that my stubbornness may have been what has saved us during the hard times. He didn't disagree. Marriage is hard, but it can be wonderful.

I will say, I don't thank my God enough for this man. He's my best friend. I hope we can always have this much fun together.

*July 12, 2002*

*July, 2010*

Oh, and I hope there's always sushi!

We feasted on some incredible sushi at a new restaurant in Wichita called Kanai. I could eat sushi every day and never desire for anything else, except fresh spring rolls. Which we went down the street to Pei Wei for, just to make the meal complete!

So I hope you are surviving the heat too. I realized extra rest is always helpful, if you can get it! I managed to get a nap this week. It wasn't on purpose though. After reading Junie B. Jones to Judah, I asked him if I could just rest my eyes for a minute. Next thing I knew I had woken up trapped under my baby. He was obviously tired too.

Stay positive, hydrated, and rested this week!

Here's a few little gems to hopefully make your week sweeter, despite the heat.

A few of my favorite tunes to dump on a playlist right now:

1. Jai Ho! (You Are My Destiny) [feat. Nicole Scherzinger] -A.R. Rahman (From Slumdog Millionaire Soundtrack)

2. Ruby- Kaiser Chiefs

3. Humans Beings- Van Halen (Don't judge, it's good and I always think of my Dad when I hear Van Halen)

4. Cousins- Vampire Weekend

5. Home- Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros (Only because Kenton says it reminds him of me) *swoon*

What are you doing to beat the heat? Distracting yourself with any good tunes?

Drum Roll Please........

2010-07-10T14:00:00.000-05:00

The moment has arrived. The winners of their very own Yurbuds Earbud Enhancers have been chosen!!!
I had so much fun this week hearing from everyone. It's nice to interact with you all. Please continue to do so. Please!!

So.... On to business. The first winner goes to the best story of ear bud woe. The lucky winner of this pair goes to Cole. She has her own blog as well, http://runningthemarathonoflife.blogspot.com/.
She entered on her husband's behalf and had the most comical quote describing his frustration.

"(He refers to his head a a taxicab with the doors open, calls his ears his sattilites and explains that this is why he works for NASA...if he doesn't laugh at himself everyone else would)."

I laughed all week at the imagery and felt bad for my fellow struggler on the opposite end of the ear size battle.

And on to the second pair. This pair was just a random name drawn out of the hat. And I promise it was random thanks to the help of Random.org. Due to twitter mentions, blog roll adds, linking to my blog, a comment, officially following my blog, and for sharing your story, some names were thrown in more than once.

And the lucky random winner is...... Veronica, from her blog, http://navywifeonadiet.blogspot.com/

Congratulations winners! I hope you enjoy your Yurbuds!!

Contact me: lacyjhansen@gmail.com and I'll get you set up with my friends at Yurbuds.

I wish I had endless pairs to gift to you all. I'm happy for the winners, but sad for the rest of you. Luckily Yurbuds are really reasonable. Compared to other companies who claim to make non-slip custom buds, they are so much more affordable and worth the price!

I hope you all will come back and chat with me in the future.

As requested I'll be posting my favorite playlist this week. Maybe you all could share your favorites with me. This way we can all rock out while we run strong.

The Give Away at the End of This Post: Starring Lovable, Non-Furry, Old Lacy

2010-07-02T15:25:00.016-05:00

Army- Ben Folds

At Least I'm Not Like All Those Other Old Guys- Five Iron Frenzy

Take On Me- Aha

Clocks- Coldplay

In the summer of 2006, I began my running journey. I did so right in front of my house. The mission: Run the 1/2 mile down the street and run back without stopping. It took me nearly a month the accomplish said mission.

And if you've followed my story at all, you probably know the rest of the crazy story. There is one element that rarely comes up, but it's been constant from my first measly mile to my run just this morning.

The beat I pump into my ears. The list above is the group of songs I ran to while I trained for my first mile. (And yes, some days it took all 4 songs to cover a mile!)

So, maybe I'm not a "purist." Maybe I'm a Generation 2.0 kid. Maybe I'm missing something by allowing the tunes to drown out the sound of the run. But, once I started masking my panting, I was able to ignore it and keep placing one foot in front of the other. Some days the music actually improves my run. Some days the music gets me home. Some days, the music makes me a runner.

I think most of us who run can agree when that perfect song and that perfect beat beckons us into "the zone," we feel as though we could run forever. When that happens to me, I could care less about the naysayers.

While the tunes can be an incredible running companion, on the same note, there's nothing more frustrating than an annoying pair of earbuds popping out, painful earphones digging in, crappy sound blaring too high, or dorky phones weighing you down while you're trying to get in the zone.

I have ridiculously small ears. The buds that come with ipods won't even sort of fit in my ears. So since 2006 I have purchased countless types of buds, phones, or adapters attempting to deliver my playlists to my ears.

I used a pair that wrapped around the back of my head and hung over my ears. They were heavy, they rattled while I ran, and they hurt because of an ear piercing.

*August 2006. My 1st 4 Miler, ever*

*October, 2007. Wichita Marathon*

I tried phones that were off a band, with clips to hang over the ears. Unless I had a winter hat on, they fell off all the time.

*November, 2007, Wichita Turkey Trot 10 Miler*

I bought expensive clip behind the ear phones. Alas, made for normal ears, they wouldn't fit.

Kenton bought me adapters for my ear buds. They boasted that the 3 size options would surely find a match for me. They fit, and worked well, if I didn't move while they were in.

I gave up and went to an over the head band with buds. They worked...ish. The sound was awful and it was incredibly painful once a winter hat was required

*September, 2008. Just About Kids 5K*

*October, 2008. Rosstoberfest 5K*

Finally I found another pair of clip behind the ear buds. If I relied on my ear piercing to hold one in place, I could make it through my runs with at least one phone in.

*September, 2009. Wichita Half Marathon*

(Humbling photo. Yikes!)

I resolved that I wasn't going to get anything better and dealt with it. Then one fateful day, blogging celebrity, Frayed Laces, was having a giveaway. This company claimed to make affordable custom earbuds. She had tried them and was claiming they worked. I was lucky enough to win a pair.

I won a pair of Yurbuds, In order to receive my custom buds, I didn't have to get a mold made of my freakish ears. All I had to do was send then a picture of my ear with a quarter next to it.

They sent me a little blue bag with a set of ear buds. Covering the buds were soft blue covers. I put them in and went for a run. Honestly I thought I should have packed a standby pair because I was skeptical they'd stay in.

But you know what?! They stayed in! I felt like I was finally in the ear buds club. I could run freely without annoying ear phones. I wasn't constantly adjusting. I was just running free. The buds are "acoustically brilliant" according to the website. I noticed immediately that I didn't have the ipod cranked and I wasn't hearing all the loud traffic noise.

They are comfortable and they do exactly what they say.

Since I've been using them I've only had two issues to contend with. One is that it's important to make sure the covers are adjusted per the instructions. If the covers aren't placed on properly, they won't stay in your ear.

The only other issue that I've dealt with is a new one just this season. When it's hot and I sweat, the buds can slip. Rarely do they ever fall out. But I have had to adjust them a bit more on these hot summer runs. Normally it just takes a few adjustments and they're back in place to stay.

*June 2010. Storm the Dam Trail 1/2 Marathon*

I've been wearing them ever since. They've run many training runs with me. I didn't listen to music during The Boston Marathon, but I took them along, just in case I wanted to because I knew they wouldn't let me down.

I wore them on a bike ride this week too. I was impressed once more. I was cruising into a strong Kansas head wind and they never fell out. I was most pleased.

So, why am I rubbing it in that I have these awesome Yurbuds and you don't? Because I want you to get a pair!!

My friends at Yurbuds gifted me two custom earbud sets to give away to you.

You see, my computer geek husband shows me the analytics from my blog and it says lots of you are reading, but few of you are saying anything to me. I want to interact more with my fellow interweb friends. So, if I can entice you with a little treat, I'll shamelessly try to buy your friendship this week.

HOW CAN YOU WIN YOUR VERY OWN CUSTOM YURBUDS? I MEAN, BE LACY'S FRIEND?

Glad you asked.

One pair is going out to the friend who leaves the best story of earbud annoyance/pain/frustration. Leave your horror story as a comment. As a qualified annoyed earbud/phone connoisseur I will pick the best story.

Another pair is going out to my best friend. I'm throwing names into a random hopper for the second pair. Your name can be thrown into the hopper more than once, more than twice... maybe more than three times.

Every time I see your name I'm throwing you in.

-Comment

-Becoming a follower

-Linking to my blog

-Sending a friend who tells me you sent them

-Adding me as a blog you follow

-Tweet about this/blog (Hi, I'm @lacyjhansen)

(other friendly ideas, probably won't help you win earbuds, but you'll win my heart)

-Giving me high fives

-Making my family dinner

-Doing my laundry

-Buying me Diet Dr. Pepper

-Creating our secret handshake

-Telling me I'm pretty

Truly, I just want to interact with readers. I've been logging our life since 2006. I accidentally became a runner since then. I've had an incredible journey since my first playlist and I'd love to share my adventure with others.

I look forward to meeting some of you and reconnecting with others of you. I'll announce the winners next Saturday!!

Some PRs and Sights Along the Way

2010-06-26T18:30:00.025-05:00

Blogging's Hard.

Or..... I'm lazy.

You choose.

Preparing for Boston, recovering from Boston, and daydreaming about returning to Boston have kept me busy. I figured I'd catch up on some of the highlights before and since Boston.

Saturday, April 3. Easter Sun Run 10K

My pre-race race. A beautiful run through Sedgwick County Park. I was happy with a new PR. (Even if 3-5 seconds lost me prize money!!)

I did win my age group with a 42:32, 6th overall.

I was on a team with my parents and friends. The proceeds go to such a great cause. Youth Horizons is out to support children and end fatherlessness. Great morning for a run.

Saturday, May 8, 2010
Wichita River Run 10K

This race was for fun. I was fresh home from Boston and was just signing up to join in on the biggest road race in Kansas. It was a delightful morning. All my fellow Boston runners got a chance to wear their long sleeve race shirts too! As I walked with my Dad to the starting line he asked me, "What are you going to run today?" I hadn't even guessed at a time. I just planned to have fun.
Fun turned into a great run. The gun went off and I felt good. So, I just went with it. I never looked at my Garmin until the last mile. I was on track to make a huge PR.
I finished smiling and so glad that the love of running can provide such great days.
I beat my Sun Run PR. I finished in 41:28, taking 2nd in my age group, 8th overall. Not bad for a "fun run."

PR's are great, but running with my son is better. Judah passed up the Tot Trot for the 2 mile this year. He had never gone that far before. He's my hero. When he finally gets his stubborn mind set, the kid's unstoppable. He shot off like a rabbit and I nearly lost him in the crowd. He slowed and sped up throughout the race. He finished in about 20 minutes. Making me so so proud.

Saturday, June 5, 2010

Storm The Dam Trail 1/2 Marathon

"Why did I sign up for this?" That's the question I kept asking myself all week leading up to this race. I love long runs. I figured, why not go out to the trail race and get my Saturday long run in? When the alarm was buzzing before the sun, I remembered what stinks about racing.

Either way, the self pep talk was given and "fake it 'til ya make it" smiles were slapped on. Me and the family headed out to El Dorado Lake for a morning of running. Even Kenton bibbed up for the 5K portion of the race.

The race was tricky! An immediate "storm" up the dam nearly wiped me out. From there it was mostly grass covered horse trails. The grass was just high enough to hide the ridiculous amount of divots from the horses. It was nearly impossible to get a stride going. Every time I broke into a pace, I'd nearly fall over from stepping in a hole. It was a great place to twist ankles. It was mostly out in the great wide Kansas open.

I held my position among the females for over 10 miles. Around mile 9 I passed a few men, but I spent most of the morning alone. The course got fun around mile 11.5. It became a real trail run. The course ran into the woods. It was completely tree covered on soft dirt. Many tree roots became obstacles and even some downed tree trunks had to be jumped. I was still all alone and didn't see a course marker for several minutes. I started to get worried I had lost the trail. Luckily, an orange ribbon appeared as I rounded the corner and left the woods. I came back out on to pavement and had to round one more grassy corner to be able to head into home.

*Since it was a trail 1/2, I'm claiming PR!*

I finished happier than when I started and was greeted by a familiar friend. RunnuRMark, my longtime interweb challenger, was in the flesh at the finish line. He and I have bantered for months about meeting up to challenge one another. This was our first meeting in person. It wasn't complete without my succession hand shake. The dude whipped my tail!

I finished 4th female overall and 2nd in my age group. 1:48:21. Good enough to get a horseshoe!

After the race I had a blast congregating with my interweb pals. I completely forgot about all the woes and irritations about the race. It was the first time I'd met Mark and the first time I actually met up with Fairweather Runner at a race. We'd met once for a jog at dawn and since, we've missed one another at nearly every local race. So, this was our first daylight meet up!

Rough race, great post-race.

Oh, yeah.... and Kenton finished his 5K too. :)

So, there's some of the highlights from this spring. It's been busy, crazy, but mostly fun.

In keeping with the theme, I thought I'd share some of the other things I've seen "along the way" this season too.

When I started running I'd often come home telling Judah stories about things I saw that day. Sometimes it'd be funny cars, weird houses, or new parks to go visit. But mostly it was animals. Snakes, snails, and even wild turkeys have topped my lists through the years. This year I started taking phone pictures to show him. I thought you all might get a kick of what my runs have run into this spring.

*I had to take Judah back to see this disgusting sight. I was freaked out when I passed it. I was too scared to get closer for a picture!*

*This little PINK guy was very mad at me for stopping. But, I knew Judah would want proof of a pink dog*

*He clammed up when I got close, but he was showing me up this hot summer day!*

*I knew Jude would love the 'teenager' goose-lings. Their momma did not like me that close. She charged me and I screamed as she chased me a bit!*

Other's stop to smell the roses. Well, runners...we're different. Enjoy the run!

My Road To Boston- THE RACE

2010-06-07T17:48:00.024-05:00

The gun went off and so did I. There were so many tid bits that I kept telling myself to "remember that, don't forget this." But honestly it was all so surreal and crazy, it kind of just blurred into one. Immediately I was bombarded with runners ditching off to the sides to "make." It was so crazy that I just stared straight ahead as much as I possibly could. I quickly found that I could break a record for the amount of high fives given in one day. I had to resist because a friend had told me how tiring it actually was to give out so many high fives. We were greeted into each town with bigger and drunker cheers. Those Bostonians like their beer and they really like to drink it on Patriots Day as you run through their town.

Live music, fans, and food were never ceasing. I think every family along the route bought oranges in bulk just to offer them to us as we passed their houses. While their were aid stations every two miles or so, I could have gotten food and drink the entire route.

I had no idea where I really was most of the time. I saw some signs or heard fans saying "Welcome to Framingham!" But I had forgotten the order of the towns, so that didn't mean a whole lot.

Physically I was feeling okay. My legs were stiff from waiting around in the cold, but all things considered, I was feeling good. I wasn't all that concerned because I was just supposed to "enjoy" this race.

Before halfway, I had realized that I should have worn something with my name or my state or my college. The supporters were incredible about yelling out for the runners. I kept in step with a girl from Canada for several miles. Every time someone saw her maple leaf, I'd hear "GO CANADA!!!" I ran with another girl from Iowa and every time a spectator saw the Hawkeye on here shirt, again, I'd hear "IOWA!!!!" My favorite was an man wearing his Colombian flag on his singlet. He passed a dense crowd of Latinos who properly pronounced their cheers, "CO-LUMM-BE-AH!!!!"

I had chosen my shirt earlier in the week. I was at a sports store and it was like the shirt spoke out to me, "I'm the one." Because of my choice in clothing, the incredible fans in Boston, decided to call me "Trust." One single word printed across my shirt gave me a new name for 3 hours and 29 minutes. "Let's go Trust!" "Come on Trust!" "TRUST, Trust, you can do it!" On that day, it was good to have a new name. I think I needed to hear that word over and over. It was nearly halfway, and I needed to trust I could do the rest, because my legs were already so tired. I hadn't even hit the real hills yet and I needed to trust I was still going to see that finish line.

Among all the crazy spectators on the side, there were plenty more hanging out windows, perched on balconies, and camped out on their lawns. The closer we got, the louder everyone got.

However, no other area can rival those girls at Wellesley!

The long standing tradition of the scream tunnel and kisses is just purely Boston.

As I got close, I saw a sign that said, "Prepare your ears." They weren't joking! It was so loud that my ears were humming. I chuckled the whole way. Watching sweaty men jump over for their kisses. So many signs to read.

"Kiss Me, I'm a Senior." "Kiss me I'm a Freshman." "Kiss Me I'm From Minnesota." "Kiss Me I'm Jewish" "Kiss Me I'm Half-Asian."

The signs were hilarious. The tunnel lived up to be everything I had ever heard it was. What an incredible boost to my tired body.

I left the ruckus behind and kept looking to the right. I told the family, I'd stay to the right and look for them. Kenton had planned to be at the halfway point, so I started looking more intently. As I was running through the town, I heard my name, my real name being screamed from the left. It was Kenton, Judah, my sister-in-law Tara, and my brother-in-law Scott! It was crazy and I think I cut some people off but I managed to get a quick wave and smile. I hollered out something about staying to the right, but it was all in fun because I only learned later what chaos they had to endure to get a spot to cheer from.

I'm not sure why I didn't take 2 seconds and stop, I guess I was just in the zone. It was so great to see familiar faces.

The weather remained beautiful. The sun shined and the temps were mild. I never even noticed the wind. These were such good things, because I could only deal with a few bad things at that time. My biggest concerns were the fact that I was listening to veteran runners telling others that "the hills" were coming right up, and the blisters that were forming back at mile 5, were really, really starting to hurt!

I never stopped to check on my blisters or get some Vaseline at the medic tents. I considered it, but I assumed stopping would be worse than the blisters.

I kept going and took in those hills that make Boston so famous. None of them were particularly steep, they were just long and and they just kept coming.

At this point the crowd knew what to do. They saw the looks of pain on our faces and dug deep themselves to get us through. Many were very informed about the course and let me know how many more I had to go. There were lots of mama's out there that day. Or at least they treated me like I was their baby. Screaming encouragement and not allowing me to give up.

I was told by the screams and by signs that Heartbreak Hill was coming up. The most famous hill of the entire course was almost behind me.

The route was adorned with huge signs. One for each town and a tag line that represented the traditon of the course. Most of the hills are in Newton. I looked up and read, "Run Newton Better In Pain." I laughed! That was the best line out of all the signs. At least I knew the pain I was in was expected and normal.

As I got closer to that sign, I was startled by a mob screaming my name. My whole family was there. My parents had staked out a spot at the base of Heartbreak Hill many hours prior. They waited and were joined by the rest of my family. I even had friends, Duane and Maria AND their 4 girls, directly across the street. Cheering from both sides was going on.

At the sound of my name I jumped and waved big, so happy to see them. It was so crazy that I never even knew about the friends screaming from the other side. Again, I waved, and smiled and ran on. My family had stood there all morning and all they got was a wave. What was wrong with me!?

I was never fully aware that I was on Heartbreak Hill, or fully aware when I was done. All I knew was that my legs were trashed. I heard a woman tell me that I had 7 more stop lights and the hills were all over. Then another person screamed something about a few blocks. I don't know when I reached it, but I did clearly see signs telling me it was over. I felt relieved for a minute. Then I remembered I had over 5 miles left to run.

The crowds were getting really really rowdy. They knew we were almost done and the alcohol had also had time to really kick in.

Somewhere around mile 23 I walked through my first aid station. I hadn't remembered ever feeling that spent before. My legs were stiff lead poles. I told myself I could walk to the last table. A very boisterous (and drunk) spectator spotted me walking. He started following me alongside the street, screaming all sorts of encouragement. He wasn't going to let me walk. He screamed until I started running again. With the little energy I had, I smiled at him and tried desperately to find a stride again.

I walked one more time at another aid station. But it hurt so bad to start up again, I refused to stop anymore.

The crowd was so thick. So loud. So amazing. So.... Boston.

It was all a haze, even then. I couldn't wrap my brain around the fact that I was finishing the Boston Marathon. I saw the Citgo sign. Signaling that I was at mile 25 and I had one more to go. I still couldn't get it to click. I was so tired. I hurt so bad.

I ran the last turns. I was showered with screams. I turned ON TO BOYLSTON STREET.

I could see the finish. It was still a long ways off, but I knew I was going to get my body across that line.

I was tunneled by the crowd, but I was in another place. A place that only days later was I able to describe.

On our last night in Boston, I broke down in tears to Kenton. I had finally been able to describe the feeling I had as I finished. Of all things, Chris Brown's song, Forever, had unlocked that feeling for me.

I was playing all the memories of my running life through my head. From running my first mile in 2006 with my Dad at my side. To completing new distances with friends running with me or cheering for me. To training for my first marathon with Wendy by me, every single step of the way. I thought of my talks with my Dad about trying to BQ. My conversations with Jamie after I fractured my pelvis. The tears shed to my husband. The sweetest words of faith from my son. The support my mom had given at every single race. Maria telling our whole church goodbye, but specifically reminding me that they'd have a room for me when, not if, I got to Boston. I thought of all times Kenton let me dream out loud. I thought of how he always pushed me to go after my dream, to never let anything stop me. How James mapped out 26.2 miles and used it as a teaching instruction at church. How Stephanie was first to pray when I was scared. How Rachel and Dave laid hands on my injuries. How my sister screamed the loudest when I got my BQ. How my Dad abandoned all formalities and told me everything he felt. How he got worried and came after me in the last few miles of my qualifying race. How Dad jumped in front of me to block the wind in that last mile. How Dad pushed me to run in the first place. How he helped me take a fluke and turn it into a way of life. And so many swarming words of encouragement I'd received from family, from friends, from strangers. How I had truly come so far. I was accomplishing my dream. And how I was doing it by traveling on the legs of my loved ones. I was trudging through those last footfalls on a path they had built for me. I desired so badly to take everyone by the hand and celebrate this moment with them. I had waited for so long for this moment and in my heart, I desired so much to share it.

All things had truly been made possible for me and in that moment, as I crossed the finish line of the 2010 Boston Marathon, I became living proof that, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" (Philippians 4:13). I could look my son in the eyes and tell him nothing is impossible.

From the finish line it was chaotic. I was exhausted, but when a nice woman placed my medal around my neck, I cracked. I was completely and totally finished.

I was herded through thousands of people. My family was stuck on the T. I had to have help putting my warm ups back on. I managed to find Kenton and then I got in view of my Dad. I was greeted by a great reception of family and friends, but I passed them up because I had been waiting all day to hug my Dad. Running had become our thing. I believe it was a gift from God to bring us closer. Closer than we'd ever thought possible. Running may have saved us from living this life as strangers. And Boston was the stage for all of our emotions regarding this relationship to be on full display.

I have had such a hard time expressing my feelings about Boston. Finding those perfect words to truly describe what the journey was like. I just couldn't do it. It's been such a long road for me. A strange turn of events turned an unsuspecting girl into a runner and got her to Boston. A mob of friends and family carried my hopes and helped me turn them into a reality. How do you put those experiences into words? I don't think you can.

If I was alone when I finished, I never felt like it. I had loved ones across the nation cheering for me that day and I knew it. I had a family just minutes away on a train. I had thousands of adopted friends screaming for me. But as my sister pointed out, I had my God, my savior, and my friend by my side the whole way. I was so impacted by a father that gives good gifts to his stubburn, selfish child.

How I long for everyone to experience that joy. How I wished I could have taken you all by the hand and shared this journey with you.

Kenton made this video, and he nailed it. My words never came, but this is exactly how I feel about "my" road to Boston.

My Road To Boston from Kenton & Lacy Hansen on Vimeo.

I waited for these images before I could post about this race. These images are the pure, wordless expression of what Boston meant to both of us. Of what running had done for us. Of what we discovered about each other through this journey. Of what God will do with a life, if you let him have his way.

So, when Persia was dust, all cried, "To Acropolis!

Run, Pheidippides, one race more! the meed is thy due!

Athens is saved, thank Pan, go shout!" He flung down his shield

Ran like fire once more: and the space 'twixt the fennel-field

And Athens was stubble again, a field which a fire runs through,

Till in he broke: "Rejoice, we conquer!" Like wine through clay,

Joy in his blood bursting his heart, - the bliss!

-Robert Browning, his 1879 poem Pheidippides.

There are things worth fighting for.

What more can I say?
I will end with a quote from one of my favorite minds.

Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting. So... get on your way.
Dr. Seuss

The Road To Hopkinton- Race Day- Day 4

2010-05-27T20:45:00.010-05:00

Race morning was quiet. I spoke few words that morning. Mostly because I spent most of the morning alone, or among strangers.

Once I was dressed and loaded, Kenton and I dropped Judah off in my parent's hotel room. I hugged my mom and fist bumped my sleeping Dad and headed for the streets with Kenton.

My stomach was in knots the whole ride to Boston Common. I said few phrases to Kenton, one of them coming after a deep swallow.

"I have a feeling I'm going to get my ass handed to me on a plate today."

We laughed, but I meant it. I was nervous and scared.

Upon reaching the common, I stalled as long as I could before getting on the school bus. I had to tell Kenton goodbye. I didn't know when I'd see him again.

I walked through the gated area and found a bus that was still loading.

I walked on and found 1/2 of an empty seat. I squeezed in and made a light hearted comment to the man sitting next to me. "I guess we're all going to make quick friends today."

He didn't speak much English. My joke didn't translate. That was the last we talked the entire ride to Hopkinton. He yakked (in German perhaps?) to his friends in front of us the whole long, long ride.

The sun came up as we rode. I texted and tweeted from my phone along the way. The lady behind me commented that the ride alone seemed long, and lamented my same fears about having to run that distance back. I turned to her and let her know she was in good company.

We were nearly there when the highway sign read "Cape Code 69 Miles." DANG! We were far from the city. My seat mate pointed that sign out to his friends, too. In a thick accent he piped up "CAYYPE CAWD."

Before I knew it, I was leaving the warmth of the bus. We exited at Hopkinton High School and walked into the athlete's village. It was a beautiful but cold morning. All sun and very little wind.

The music was pumping, and the people were filing in. I was one of the first to arrive so the lines were short. I took advantage of one of the empty porta potties. I had 490 to choose from and I knew there were still plenty more buses coming full of runners.

I walked into the tent and decided I needed to set up in the sun, it was really chilly to be in the shade.

I grabbed just a little of the water and Gatorade and set up camp in the damp field. Not thinking ahead I had nothing to sit on. I grabbed an empty box, broke it down and set up camp. I laid on a box for over an hour trying to stay warm. I sent messages back and forth with Kenton, my Dad, and several friends. It was a great way to pass the time. At one point I sat up and realized the field was packed. While I was trying to relax, hundreds more people had piled in.

I got up to get some feeling back in my toes and attempt to wait in a now very long porta potty line.

I had about an hour and a half until my start, so I figured I had just enough time.

I did my business and then slowly started taking my layers off. I waited until I actually got to the baggage bus before I completely took all my warm-ups off. I left the village and watched all sorts of runners in their routines. Plenty of people were using the "illegal" facilities around trees. It was kind of awkward seeing people in all states of dress around me. I found my numbered bus, took off my last layer of warmth and handed my bag in through the window.

I kept one long sleeve tee on. I planned on ditching it and never seeing it again. I began to walk down the barricaded streets. I didn't really know where I was going, I just followed the herd. The crowd got thicker and the noise got louder the closer I got to the start. If it weren't for signs placed very high above the street, it would have just looked like a mob of people.

Kids were already outside their houses, cheering with their really really thick Boston accents.

I found my corral. By this point I was just squeezing through people. I weaseled my way into the back of the 8,000's. It was hard to tell the difference between the crowd, and the corrals. There was a singer singing and then a flyover. It all happened so fast. I was wedged so tight, that I think I pulled off my long sleeve shirt before the gun went off. There were shirts and gloves and bottles and all sorts of runner debris flying to the sides.

I took one last picture with my phone, loaded it to Twitter and Facebook. The man behind me commented on my "very up to date blogging" and I assured him that was my last update for a bit.

The Trip to Hopkinton from Kenton & Lacy Hansen on Vimeo.

*The sights and sounds of my Road To Hopkinton*

The gun went off and I stood still. Over 8,000 people were in front of me and about 6,000 were behind me. Eventually we started moving, then jogging, and then running. I crossed a bright blue starting line and ran under several moving cameras. I heard roars of cheering. This was just the beginning of my very very long road to Boston.

B.A.A. 5K and Marathon Eve- DAY 3

2010-05-18T13:11:00.016-05:00

It was another early morning as I rose to prepare for the 5K with my Dad. I always run 3 miles the day before a marathon. So I decided to run these 3 miles with a bib number on. My Dad decided to cruise through the race with me. We came together to embrace this experience, so it was really touching when he told me he wasn't going to race, he was going to run with me. Still being newbies in town we didn't know the best way to get to the start. So we decided to just run there. We headed down to Boylston and found it to be much different with the traffic closed off. We walked up to the Finish Line and kinda approached it with awe. A stranger offered to take our picture. The 5K would finish at the same finish line. I was kind of worried that I'd be let down on Monday if I already crossed it once on Sunday. But a nice leisurely 3 mile run verses the "show" were not to be compared.

We lined up in a massive herd of people. It was cool but dry, until the announcer started talking. It began to rain as we waited. While we were still a ways off, we could hear perfectly the names that were being introduced. On a platform far off, real running heroes were present. Some were preparing to run with us. Among the runners were my two favorites. Bill Rodgers

and Katherine Switzer.

In so many ways, those two have played such a huge role in my running. If it weren't for them, I doubt I would have been in Boston that day.

We took off and had a great run through the city. Together my Dad and I got to see Boston Common, The State House, and Cheers! We both stuck out like true Kansans as we, once again, could not hold back our amazement at all we were seeing. My Dad was so giddy he was hoopin' and hollerin' along the way. We ran causally. That's hard for me to do with a bib number on. But I knew I had to just chill out, because Monday was coming quick.

2010 Boston Athletic Association 5k from Kenton & Lacy Hansen on Vimeo.

We were also honored to be following the foot steps of the 5K winner, Josh Cox. He's the American 50K record holder. He's Olympian Ryan Hall's training partner. And as I type, he is on his way to South Africa to compete in the 56mile Comrades Ultra Marathon. I have been so impressed with the noble work he's doing with his running. I learned all about how he's working to get 1,500 needy children sponsored through World Vision's team. Again, What an honor to run with him!

Our official time was 23:45. Nothing to write home about. Just a nice pre-marathon "shake out" run. Oh, THROUGH THE FREAKIN' STREETS of BOSTON!

We were herded so quickly through the chute. Then quickly turned into a tent. It was all so fast and organized. We were given medals, handed a bag and corralled through a line and allowed to grab one of each awesome item on the tables. Finagle A Bagel, juice, fruit leather, water, chips, and so much more. Before we knew it we were on the other side walking back to our family. Even as we walked back, the finishers were still coming in by the hundreds. There were over 4,000 runners that morning.After we found the family, I mentioned that I'd like to "run" back in to the expo "rel quick", since we were right there, and see if they had anymore of the kid's shirts. HA! Since I quickly learned that some expo items are "expo only" items, I re-thought my purchase plan. Essentially, I said, "Kenton, give me the credit card, and don't ask me about the total."

Well, hooray! They managed to find more kids shirts overnight! So as I grabbed one of those, I also, grabbed a hoodie, another tee shirt for me, a stocking cap, and a button. I managed to walk away and had to overt my eyes.

As Kenton, Judah, and I managed to walk out with my "minimal" second day damage, my Mom called. Her and my Dad were still hoarding the goods. I mentioned a shirt that I liked, but said I couldn't go back in or Kenton would kill me. They told me to come in and find them. Long story short. I left with another pullover and t-shirt.

New Balance may have had the best shirts. So great in fact, that I am so mad I didn't grab a slightly too big one, just because it's better than nothing. I fell in love with the green one so hard, that I actually bought the last one off the sale rep's back.

My Mom and Dad's money went to good use. I wear this shirt all the time! (Thanks guys, Like I always said, 'I know I'm spoiled, I'm just not a brat.')

So, still wearing my race clothes, bib, and medal, I toted a much heavier bag back to the hotel! All bad choices are excused by the simple phrase, "But! It's Boston!"

We headed back to the hotel and I had to snap this picture. The optical shop, just like everywhere else in town, would be closed the next day. Panic/excitement was starting to set in. "It's happening!!"
We have rules in our family about eating on vacation. 1. You can't eat anywhere you could at home. 2. You can't go to a place more than once. We broke those rules. On Sunday afternoon we discovered a chain restaurant called BoLoco. This joint rivals, if not beats, our beloved Chipotle. While it was a new and first time visit on Sunday, we did go back two more times during our trip.

We also broke rule number one on Sunday night. But I think we're going to make an addendum to that rule. "You can go to a known restaurant when one or more members is running 26.2 miles in the morning and needs to feed their gut food it has already been acquainted with."

I had made "safe" reservations at P.F. Chang's two weeks prior. If I'm not cooking at home, I can safely eat at Pei Wei or P.F. Chang's. My pre-race meal is chicken and broccoli over brown rice.
We rode the T to Prudential Tower and enjoyed a nice meal. Judah got his very first Roy Rogers and was quite pleased. I was just trying to chill and breath deep.
Mom and Dad celebrated with none other than Sam Adams, what else would you drink in Boston?

As everything takes longer than expected, we got back as soon as possible and I laid out everything. I even had a checklist. It was rather extensive. I crossed everything off, right down to "schedule wake-up call" and "set both alarms."

I'm pretty sure I went to bed, it didn't feel like long before those alarms and phones were ringing.

Boston Day 2

2010-05-18T12:48:00.009-05:00

It's ridiculous how long it's taken me to post this stuff. I guess I've been in denial that it's over. It's a long come down, coming down from a dream come true.

I woke Saturday April 17, early enough. We were all so tired from traveling. I texted my Dad and asked if he wanted to go for a jog with me. He was ready and waiting within a few minutes.

We set out on the cold and wet morning. We tried to recall where our shuttle had taken us the night before. But it all looked so different in the daylight.

With intentions of finding the expo, we ran in that general direction.

I pulled out my phone and used GPS. A few short turns and we were there.

There were lots of people coming and going from the expo, but we weren't planning on going in just yet. It was all so surreal. "The Expo" was taking place. "The Jackets" were being sold. Plenty of veteran Boston runners were swarming the area. You knew them by their jackets. Lots of past years were being represented. I was nervous as heck, but starting to get excited.
We ran back with our mouths wide open the whole time. Everything is so beautiful in Boston. We'd stop and say, "look at that" or "oh, wow, what's that sculpture say?" We were even stopped for directions. "Is Fenway down this way?" Not realizing that it was just around the bend, we showed our mid-west ignorance and said, "I dunno." (Basically... we were so self conscience about sounding like hayseeds)
We showered and went as a complete family on our first of many T rides.

We got off at Copley. (Pronounced COP-Lee, not 'cope-lee' as we quickly discovered) As we climbed out of the subway, we walked right into the finish line. THE FINISH LINE. It was raining and it was crowded. I wasn't expecting to be surprised by such a sight. I walked in a line following my family, but I was crying. Ugly face crying. "I'm here, I'm really here."
My 'team mates" had to stop for a pretzel. We knew we'd love this city!
First stop once inside, was the 5K bib pick up. My Dad and I decided to run this for fun weeks prior. The 5K pick-up was off separate from the rest of the expo, it was still quiet in this area. Little did we know we were about to enter a jungle.
I walked into a huge door way with my pick-up card and ID. The man at the "wave 1, 'H' line" paid me a nice complement. "Wow, you're up here? You must be pretty fast then." I was quiet pleased to show off my 3:19 BQ for him. He handed me my packet and wished me luck. I was holding back tears as I turned for the next room. When I looked back, my Dad was standing there with a camera. This was more intense than graduations. We were all a little emotional.
I walked on and got my shirt and my check bag. I felt like I was officially "in" now. I could proudly walk the expo with my bright yellow bag strung across my back and let it be known, I came to run the Boston Marathon.
The next room was "The Expo"
The only thing I had to get was a celebration jacket. I thought I could wait on everything else. My savvy running buddy back in Wichita always sends the link to the clearance Boston merchandise out every May. So, I knew I didn't have to pay for everything that day. But I had to get a jacket. They were out of smalls and I had to try on a medium. Kenton snapped a camera phone pic so I could see if it fit. I quickly took it off. It's so not cool to wear the jacket if you haven't run. I did not want to be spotted out as a newbie, so I resisted the urge to snuggle up in my coveted new wooby.
We walked the expo and saw some of the awesome stuff. But man, it was crowded. The only other item I was after was a "future qualifier" shirt for Judah. They were out of his size. I was told maybe I could check the website, but I wasn't given a lot of promise. So, I began to re-think my plan to wait until items went on clearance. It was so stinkin' crowded, we all had to get out though.
We ended up walking back because we were still a little ignorant on where all the T stations and stops were. (Soon, Kenton owned that sucker, but the first few days, not so much)

That's okay. We ended up seeing so many awesome things along the way. The fire station, Engine Company 33/ Ladder Company 15, has been opened and operating since 1888. It's right at the corner of Hereford and Boylston, the final turn in the Boston Marathon.
We also walked right past The Museum of Fine Arts. Judah took the opportunity to "interact" with the art.

We were picked up that night by our brother in law and driven from Boston to Belmont. Kenton's step sister and her husband live just outside Cambridge. We got to visit our niece and they treated us to a great B.A.A. 5K pre-race meal of chicken and brown rice.

Oz to Boston Day 1

2010-05-11T19:40:00.004-05:00

Before our trip to Boston, I, the daughter and granddaughter of life long aircraft workers and granddaughter of a pilot, had never flown in a commercial aircraft. Oh, and my city, Wichita, is known as the 'Aircraft Capital of the World." Seriously.Neither had Judah, but he's 6.
We all did just fine. And by all I mean all 5 of us. I'm lucky enough to have had my mom and dad join me in this dream come true.
Wichita to Atlanta. Left cloudy cool 60 degree weather. Met sunny 75-80 degree weather.
Rushed to the other end of the world's largest airport.
Judah adjusted quite nicely to the quick trip from Atlanta to Boston. Where we got off and it was dark, rainy, and about 40 degrees!

But, they were expecting me.

We had a great shuttle driver who informed us that the Sox game was rained out and traffic would be heavier because of the game getting out early. In my mind, "awesome! We're really here!"

As we waited for Quan's Chinese delivery to bring us food at about 1 in the morning. Kenton passed on a hearty Carlile (my maiden name) tradition. "The first thing you must do in a hotel room is....' JUMP ON THE BEDS!!!'"
By 2AM we were fed and very very tired.

By daybreak....the real journey began.

Let Me Catch My Breath

2010-05-07T18:32:00.010-05:00

It's been long enough, but I still haven't sat down long enough to take this all in.
Give me one more day...or two