10 Things I Want To Love About You

Well, humphf! It can't always be sun shiny and rainbows, I guess. Boston is in one week. I should be done and showered by this time next week. I'm not giddy. I'm not excited. I'm tired, worried, and pretty burnt out.

That bites, but it's the truth. I've had some great times over the last few weeks. And I've had some pretty daunting lows. Is it pre-race nerves? Did I over-train and burnout? Is this normal nerves or is it more than that? Being pre-disposed to emotional issues, I've learned to take these times and "act the way I want to feel" not act the way I currently feel.

I believe this marathon is more than another race. A challenge to be conquered, it's a blessing. An unattainable dream brought into reality. I believe in a faithful God. I believe he gave me the impossible ability to rise off the couch and run faster than I ever knew I could.

I believe his faithfulness will turn my weariness around and Boston will become all I've ever hoped for. My God is good.

Kenton required me to make a list of "10 Things" I wanted to be excited about. I just put them together for him this afternoon.

Lord Willing, Boston will be beautiful.

1. Hugging my Dad at the finish line

2. Owning the title of Boston Marathoner

3. Experiencing the crowd

4. Feeling freedom from "having" to run

5. Buying Judah a "Future Qualifier" shirt

6. Celebrating with You, Judah, my Mom, and Dad

7. Giving you and Judah a picture of God's promise that "all things in Christ" are possible

8. Being glad I pushed through the "feelings" and ran the race

9. Hopefully getting teary eyed as I turn on to Boylston street and seeing the Citgo sign

10. Somehow being able to hear you scream my name in the sea of people as I prepare to finish this race (It's been a long road for us all)

Muscle Flashbacks

Oh yeah, that's what it feels like to run 24 miles! My legs were having violent flashbacks yesterday afternoon.
The decision to wait one day was right on. I met the group at 7 AM. It was very cold, but it was clear and almost all the ice and snow had melted off the streets. There was a strong north wind, but we were able to have it at our backs over half of the run.
The only crucial flaw I made yesterday was forgetting about the lack of water that would be available on the course.
We're spoiled runners out here in east Wichita. If you run the "Wichita Marathon Training Route" on a Saturday you can plan for a kind soul to place cups and a water jug on his porch at mile 5.5. With a fire station at 3.5, his house, and then a "dropped" aid station at 10. We're normally set. Since it was Sunday, there was no water at 5 1/2 and we had to take a Gu without water to wash it down. That did not set well for me. I sucked down a cold, thick Gu and ran another 4.5 miles until I could get some water. I had this brick in my gut really making me uncomfortable for several miles.
I had to make an unscheduled pit stop at a QT around mile 13 or so. After that the rest of the run was jut about keeping a pace and finishing strong.

Because my training called for a 24 miler, I had to keep going when we reached the "finish." I talked to myself about just calling it at 21 miles, but I knew I wouldn't be able to live with that. I gave a quick high five to my partner, said my goodbyes and pushed on for three more miles.
I finished right at my driveway and gladly headed indoors. Learning from my previous mistake, I went straight for the fridge and grabbed a PowerAde ZERO and then filled my Camelbak 32 oz. water bottle. I proceeded to suck those down.
Things went much much better this time.
My cheering squad returned from church just a little bit later and I received a picture from Judah. He drew this while I was out running.


I stood in the hallway and talked the run over with Kenton while he went all "parental" on me making sure I had started refueling properly. He did all this of course while snapping a picture, because he found my pathetic appearance comical.
After I saw this picture, I could see the comedy in it all. I later regained the color in my face.

If you had asked me how it was going at mile 23, I would have probably cried. But after the fact, I think it went pretty good. I held a good pace in not so perfect conditions and finished strong.

My biggest complaint this week is the new blister I've acquired. I bandage it up before every run, but it's still getting pretty gnarly, especially after 24 miles. It's from the new shoes. I got a narrow pair to correct the issue I was having with my left foot. However, looks like my right foot was happier in the regular shoe. Ah, sheesh! What am I going to do?

*Pretty, isn't it?*

I was extra good and even fought through the pain and stretched before I hosed off. I've been fortunate enough to see a massage therapist once a week since February and she's been teaching me some new stretches. Most require help and thankfully Kenton was there to help my sore body out.

*My foot was not smelling like a rose by that point, if that's not love, I don't know what is*

I soaked up all the hot water our heater could dish out and then Kenton said I could pick where we went for lunch. Since Tsunami is closed on Sunday's, the next best place is Saigon! I had fresh chicken spring rolls and #50. Their menu has like 100+ items and all can be ordered by number. Since most items are in Vietnamese, that's how we often order. #50 is a Bun. A bun is a rice noodle dish. I get the one with chicken and vegetables. We go there so often the waitresses bring us spring rolls before they even come to take the rest of our order. The owner always gives Judah money to buy toys from the coin machines. It's such a great place. The owner took our picture this past week on St. Patrick's Day. We were there to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Kenton and I meeting. Our first official date was at Saigon too. So, Saigon is always a fitting place to enjoy a great meal to celebrate any and all occasions. Anniversaries, birthdays, or long runs!

*Meeting on March 17, 2000 always makes us feel 'lucky' to have each other*

I woke this morning with the usual soreness with a little extra from the blister. I got the kinks out as I took Judah to school. I run from the school so I don't waste anytime piddling around back at home. I took off thinking 3 was my max, but I managed to gut out a few painful miles and felt good enough to go for 6.
So back to the grindstone this week. Running my miles and makeshift hills to prepare for "Heartbreak Hill" in exactly 4 weeks!

*Some of the best hills Wichita can offer*

March 20, 2010 First Day of Spring

Yesterday at 1 PM I was outdoors at a park with Judah. No coats, sunglasses, and surrounded by all the droves of park goers. This morning we wake to this.



It's below freezing and the wind is howling. I am not a light weight. I have run in the crap all season. I was supposed to run my 24 miler today. I am not. Tomorrow the sun is supposed to shine and it's forecasted to be much warmer. It was not hard to suggest a 24 hour delay on our run to the group. So, 7 am tomorrow I will take on the last "long" run of my training for the 2010 Boston Marathon. Rain, snow, or shine!

I received my Bib number this week. I am number 8481. With a simple text to the number above, I can be tracked via text message on Race Day, 4 weeks and one day from today!

"Everybody Gets Knocked Down"

It's getting so close. Boston is 5 weeks and 1 day away. I wish I could say I was over the moon with excitement, but I'm not. I'm so emotional. But I still feel good and confident. All these jitters are just nerves. Race day is going to come and I plan to have a great attitude.

Last week's 22 miler taught me a great lesson. I must respect the distance. I finished the 22 miles in a great mood, and pretty decent time. I came in the house got busy and before I knew it an hour had gone by and I hadn't even had a sip of water. No food, no sports drink, nothing. I got up and realized I felt weird and before I knew it I was in the fetal position with chills and cramps.

Stupid, stupid rookie mistake. After 2 days of nausea and headaches, I nursed myself back from the dehydrated dead and learned a great lesson. Never Again will I be so foolish!

Made me recall my first high altitude race back in June 2007, I got acquainted with the need for electrolyte replacement that day!

My fridge it stocked with PowerAde ZERO and Smart Water. These have become my electrolyte replacement drinks of choice.

In other annoying news, my "lucky shorts" may have met their end. My darling little boy left 4 crayons in his pants pockets this week. They rode through the washer and then reeked havoc in the dryer. An entire load was rainbow speckled. I've Googled every method to removed the mess. I spent $20 on stain removers. Things look better, but my black Nike "Fit Dri" shorts still have some multi-colored accents along the white stripes.

I never thought of them as my "lucky shorts" before. I just realized that in my 4 Marathons, I have worn the same shorts. Kinda seems weird to think of wearing another pair in Boston. Crayola says spot treatment with WD-40 should do the trick on the remaining stains, we shall see.

April 2007 OKC 1st Marathon

October 2007 Wichita 2nd Marathon

April 2009 OKC 3rd Marathon

October 2009 Wichita 4th Marathon

I really hope I can get the stains out. Shoot, maybe I'll just wear them anyway. It'll be like a great little reminder of my little man during the race.

I haven't read it yet, but I know this month's Runners World has an article about balancing motherhood and running. This week's laundry episode really made me take a look at how tricky that balance can be, and we only have one little monkey running around.

I did get a kick out of calling him one Friday as he stayed the night with his NeeNee and Mr. Randy. I had the 22 miler in the morning and was starting at 5:55 AM. So I phoned him at 8:30 to tell him goodnight. Not because He was going to bed, but because I had to go to bed. I never saw that one coming when this little running adventure began back in 2006!

I hope I'm balancing it right. Preferably adding more weight to his side of the scale, because He's my muse in the first place. He asked if he could go with me on Friday when I headed for the door. Oh, how I dream of the day when that's realistic!!

So, this has been such an emotional and physical roller coaster. Training for Boston that is. I have had days where I've had to drag myself out of bed and days where I've had to force myself to stop because I wanted to run all day. Days where the motivation was overflowing and days where I had to dig real deep to remember why I voluntarily do this to myself.

This got me ignited recently. I bought the song today and decreased my "rest day" run by 2 minutes just by cranking this song.

Sports aside, sometimes we all need to remember to get back up and give 'em hell!

MILES:
3/6 22 miles
3/7 3 miles
3/8 45 minute spin class, 3 miles elliptical, 2 mile run
3/9 11 miles, weights
3/10 10 miles
3/11 6 miles
3/12 5 miles, 45 minute spin class, weights
3/13 14 miles
3/14 3 miles

Ramblings of a Sleepy Sappy Runner

As Boston is getting closer I've found myself on an emotional roller coaster. From tears of excitement to worries to even total indifference, my feelings have been all over the charts.

I keep thinking of the movie, Groundhog Day.

I wake every morning trying to chase down that perfect day I had. Well, Ive had more than one good day, but I'd like them all to "feel" just right. But as the chips fall as they may, I must accept my limited control over my feelings, and just tell the stupid ones to shut up.

I've been running really well, finally. I've visited Nancy Bowers, a great massage therapist twice now. The experience has been intense. Even though there's candles, dim lights, and soft music, she's still really aggressive about getting my muscles "worked." A few techniques caused me to clinch my fist and bite my tongue. She's also a Boston Marathoner, so I feel very comfortable in her care. And after a few sessions, I felt like a brand new runner again. It's a total gift from God that I've been able to receive her therapy.

The weather has finally taken a turn for the better. A new record was noted this week in Wichita. It got over 60 degrees for the first time since November 28th. The news said that this is the longest recorded streak of such low temperatures. But the sun's been out and I've found that my habit of gloves and stocking cap have been too warm some days. That's such good news.

As we get closer, Judah is getting so excited. He talks about getting ice cream, seeing his friends and cousin, and flying all the time. His teacher showed me his journal from last month, he has more than one entry about Boston.

I plotted my jog course for the day before the marathon this week too. Looks like I'll cross the finish line the day before the race too. My Dad and I signed up for the BAA 5K ( http://baa.org/5k/) this week. I'll comfortably jog the race through a historic course to get my sea legs ready for the big day. Part of me wondered if I'll be sad to cross the line before the 19th, like maybe it'll water down the real deal. Doubt it, plus when am I going to get a chance to do it again?

Seems like things are going pretty smoothly. My body seems to be feeling pretty good. My narrow shoes are working wonders on my foot. I just pray every day for safety and good health. My God has been so faithful, I'm overwhelmed.

MILES:

2/20 16 miles

2/21 3 miles

2/22 6 miles + weights

2/23 10 miles

2/24 45 minute spin class + 5 miles on elliptical

2/25 10 miles

2/26 8 miles + weights

2/27 20 miles

2/28 3 miles

3/1 10 miles

3/2 6 miles + weights

3/3 10 miles

3/4 6 miles

3/5 8 miles + weights

Gotta get to bed.... 22 miler in the morning.

"First Rule of Fight Club....."

You DO NOT talk about Fight Club..... or the possibility that I've injured myself while training for Boston!

So that's what I've done, not talked about the fact that my hamstrings hurt, my groin muscles hurt, and my left foot feels like it's broken. I've talked to the people I need to talk about these issues and that's all the talking I'm going to do.

Slap another band-aid on, because I'm running Boston even if I have to crawl.

I will talk about this though. I got new shoes to fit my narrow foot. So now I have one leg shorter than the other requiring a lift and one foot wider than the other. This is why my bloody toes keep coming up through my left shoe. It's swimming around in there. So hopefully problem solved.

I ran yesterday and felt wonderful comparatively. The aches were so minimal and the foot was 90% better. So that is what I'll talk about.

My prayers have been heard and I know my God loves me. So much that he provides even the silly desires of my heart. Like a desire to run 26.2 miles at one time. God is good, all the time.

I will also talk about my family. They've prayed with me everyday and hoped and believed with me. Together we've all been able to keep it in perspective too. My injuries are minuscule when mirrored against the realities of this world. There are children starving all over the world, illnesses in my own circle, jobless families.... the list could go on forever. When I put it in order, my spirits have remained incredibly high, because I have so much and am truly blessed.

Boston is my gift. I plan to receive that gift with joy, no matter what form it comes in.

So on to more things I like talking about.

Even though the runs have been "ify" and the weather's provided some slippery surfaces, there are some note worthy antidotes.

Two Saturday's ago I met with the group for our miles. In order to get maximum time with all the runners, some of us go early to get in the extra miles we need and then head back in to start with the rest of the group. All this to say, when we were approaching the dead opossum for my 2nd time that morning, I gave warning to the others so they wouldn't be surprised like I had been. After I hollered my, Watch out! Dead opossum!" My friend chimed in, "Yeah, you should of seen her earlier, she yelped. That's the first time I've seen Lacy act like a girl!"

I had to laugh too. I don't spit, I've never let a fart fly on a run, never shot a snot rocket, and I barely ever sweat enough to stink too bad. But when you are accused of "chicking" the guys, I guess there's not room for being too girly out there. But I guess dead opossum brings it out in me.

On Monday after the Super Bowl, snow covered the city. It was soft slushy snow. At 5 AM, it was already well above freezing, it was calm, and actually very nice outside. I met one of my training partners for our 5 am run. Due to said partner's position in our fair city, the plows were sure to be out plowing the streets they know he runs on every morning. Bonus for me. I guess running with Mr. City Manager has it's perks. We ran our normal Monday route. We had some trouble where the snow wasn't cleared. It was deep, over 4 inches in some spots. Due to this we decided to skip the river path on run on the street. Up until this point our run had been pretty quiet. Only one car passed too close and soaked us in slush. As we rounded the curve on the street we noticed a car had done a 180 over the median and was attempting to get back on the road. As we passed we watched as another car came around the curve, fish tail, lose control, go up onto the median, slide into a small tree, and have all the snow from the tree fall on it's roof. I reached for my phone assuming I'd need to call for assistance. Nope! The little Ford Festiva restarted , put it in reverse, and took off down the street. We laughed thinking that was the most drama we would see for the morning. Then we looked up and saw a city bus nearly mimicking the little festiva's every move. As it came too quickly down the street, I jumped in the grass. I hear Mr. Manager drop a bomb, which he spent the rest of the morning apologizing for, and see the bus fishtail right past us. After we did the individual "am I still here?" pat down, we checked on each other and got the heck off the street.

As the adrenaline surge died down, we finished up. Only to hear Mr. Manager tell me with glazed over eyes that he had often joked he'd like to choose the way he'd die. "I always said I'd like to be out running and just get hit by a bus, " he said. As we realized that had just nearly happened, he changed his mind. Who knew running could be so dramatic?

Here's The Numbers:

Saturday 2/6: 18 miles

Sunday 2/7: 3 miles

Monday 2/8: 10 miles

Tuesday: 6 miles and weights

Wednesday: 10 miles

Thursday: 6 miles and weights

Friday: 5 miles and 45 minute spin class

Saturday 2/13: 12 miles

Sunday 2/14: 3 miles

Monday: 10 miles

Tuesday: 6 miles (on indoor track 14 laps=1 mile!) Weights

Wednesday 6 miles

Thursday 2/18: 10 very comfy miles!!!!

Friday:6 miles and weights

Bigger Fish To Fry

There's been so much more than running going on these days. Things to really keep me in check and get my priorities straight.

As a family we were able to help load a few of the 1 million plus meals with Numana Inc. We loaded meals on Sunday 1/24 and saw pictures by Thursday 1/28 of Haitian's carrying these meals to their families. Incredible feeling!

We took Judah to his first hockey game. The new Intrust Bank Arena has opened and the Thunder moved in for their first arena game. While we're not big sports fans (we won the tickets at public television raffle...just to give you an idea what sort of sports fans we are) it was fun to take Judah. And he's still a boy, so fighting, funnel cakes, and face painting were right up his alley!

For me, running has to be lower on my list. While it's high enough, there are still many more important things. In the past I've missed the blessings right in front of me by devoting myself wholly to running. I respect the marathon distance and pray for an incredible dream come t

rue. However, it is just a race after all, and my baby will only be six once.

Running is ...going. I'm getting the miles in, one way or another. The weather

has been making that kind of difficult. Last weekend's long run followed an all city "snow-day." Therefore 16 miles were clip clopped through several inches of snow. But the run was completed and another week of training was marked off.

In the middle of these last two weeks I started feeling a tiny twinge of pain in my right upper leg. In the hamstring/groin area. Two years ago I ignored pains of this nature and found myself with a stress fracture two days before a marathon. So, I called up my PT (who is just too good to me) and he had me lie on his table. His pushed, pulled, stretched, pushed some more, and then we noticed how awkward it all looked to the other patients and closed the curtain.

I was hooked up to a weight machine and had my strength tested. I went back over the two stress fracture tests. Jump on one leg: no pain? OK. Bend over and mimic putting pants on: No Pain? OK.

We set down and discussed an official training plan and my need to stretch my super tight muscles like it's going out of style. I was instructed to follow the guide and stretch my hamstrings at any opportunity I could find. It's an accepted occurrence for my family to find me throwing my leg up on the bathroom counter in mid-sentence or reaching for my toes while on the phone. I have a yoga mat permanently out on the bedroom floor. I took his advice to heart.

We're going to Boston whether I'm hurt or not, but going and not running? (*Holding back tears*) Don't even talk to me about it!

I'm not feeling any worse, but I hate that this little nag is still there. It's amazing how little problems like this can really magnify when you've got so much riding on it. Trying to keep it all in perspective, but still being consumed with fear, I've really been learning to cry out to my God. He heard me too. After being honest with my fears in prayer, my pastor randomly came up to me after service to talk about my running. After I explained how Boston is coming and how my fear of injury was looming, he shocked me with a gift. With tears in my eyes I was "invested" in.

I was given the funds to see a massage therapist. My tear filled eyes and dropped jaw were so thankful for a response from God. Running has been a never-ending faith journey for me.

I'm going to a sports massage therapist tomorrow after my long run. Amazing.

Here's my latest numbers:

Saturday 1/23: 16 miles

Sunday: 3 Miles

Monday: 10 Miles

Tuesday: 6 miles on Elliptical and Weights (PT Appointment)

Wednesday: 10 miles

Thursday: 5 miles and weights

Friday: SNOW DAY! 5 miles (treadmill) and 5 miles on Elliptical

The picture doesn't really capture the snow blowing down. This was after Judah and I trekked to the gym, Marathon training doesn't take snow days!

I had to scrape the windows before we could leave the gym. Judah was mad because I wouldn't let him do it with his hands. He's such a trooper. I love that kid. He's my muse. In so many ways Boston is all about him. I want him to see proof that going after your dreams is worth the trouble. Even inching along at 20 MPH in a snowstorm kind of trouble.

Saturday: 16 miles on the snow 15 degrees

Sunday: 3 miles

Monday: 10 miles

Tuesday: 3 miles to the gym, weights, 3 miles back

Wednesday: 10 miles

Thursday: 3 to the gym, weights, 3 back

Friday: 5 miles and 45 minute spin class

I'm trying to stick to the guide and throw in more cross training. If I can lessen the impact on my bones, I'll be better off. I guess we all have our limits and I will just have to accept, I'm not an ultra marathoner and my body won't let me run more than 50ish miles a week.

And it's all worth it. Whether on foot, on a machine, in the pool, or on a bike that goes nowhere. When the waitress at Tsunami puts the heap of coconut curry in front of me, all the early mornings, aches, cold limbs, and endless heaps of sweaty laundry blissfully disappear!

"It Happens"

I think I read there are 13 weeks until Boston. We booked the flights last night, so there's no turning back now. Plus, my parents are booked as well...it's so exciting to have their unwavering support.

I have such a love/hate relationship with running at times. This week was kind of a struggle to remember why I ever liked it. As I dodged the copious supply of goose poop along the river, I recalled the wise words of Forest Gump, "It Happens...Sometimes."

Life can be so taxing and training doesn't care if you just don't "feel" like it. This week was just full of "it." Once I could wrap my brain around the fact that sometimes, "It" just happens, I was able to break through and get more excited about my training.

Boston is supposed to be fun and I want to really take it all in and enjoy.

Here's a brief run down of the last few days.

Saturday: 13.5 miles

Sunday: 3 miles

Monday: 10 miles

Tuesday: 5 miles + 2.5 elliptical miles + Weights

Wednesday: 11 miles

Thursday: 5 miles to Gym, lift weights, 3 miles home

Friday: 5 miles

One of my favorite runs is my runs through downtown to the YMCA. I go pass one of our best sights. The Keeper of the Plains is a central focal point of the city and even on a dreary day, it's nice to see.

Before I get to the gym, I pass a very active bobcat in the native animal exhibit in the park. Even when it's freezing and snow covered, this thing always pops out as I run by.

And speaking of freezing... it HASN'T been! it's been wonderful how mild the temps have been. Only needing one layer and not having to pull out the big dopey mittens that make it impossible to use my ipod. However, it was still chilly enough to create my embarrassing "snowbeard" this week. I didn't know about this lovely trait until last year. I had finished a race and my Dad pointed out my lovely sweaty facial beard. When it's cold the sweat can kinda freezes to the "Oh so delicate, soft, totally NORMAL" light hair on my face.

Since that race, I've been so conscious to wipe my face often on my sleeves. But, as I got to the gym and noticed it was still showing, I tried to snap a pic. TMI, maybe, but I figured this picture was funny enough. Plus the fact that I was in the bathroom trying to capture this and flinching anytime I heard the door open, was a pretty good image as well.

(Wow what a shot of the nose!)

As, I progress through this season I think one of my biggest weapons is to remember to enjoy it. To be able to be healthy enough to go after this dream is such a huge blessing. And to have a beautiful family to back me up is priceless.

It's Raining Fog!

That was the verdict from the National Weather Service this morning. "Frozen Fog Advisory." After I stalled long enough, I got over a little falling precipitation, in whatever weird form it was in, and hit the road.

I haven't been taking enough time to stretch properly and after three days on the treadmill last week, I was feelin' it. I was feeling much better today after I got going.

Tuesdays are my nice run to the gym while I listen to the NPR quiz show, "Wait, Wait, Don't Tell

Me." I can often imagine what one might think as I blurt out the answers while running through the streets of downtown. Or as I burst in to laughter. Oh well, can't be any worse than when I just can't contain myself and start singing along to the music.

I warmed up and was nearly to the gym when I found myself in Riverside Park and the view was just awesome. I had to stop and take the best shot I could with my phone.

The frozen fog made the park and the river look so beautiful. There were a few other lonely running shoe footprints out on the path too. It feels good to know that some other crazies are out there too.

Besides being sore, training is going just fine this week. The temps are warming and the sun is supposed to come out. That makes such a difference in my attitude towards training. Plus I can only handle so many miles on a the treadmill, I have my limit.

While the miles are creeping up slowly, I think it's time for me to focus more on my diet. I know I've put on a little bit of weight since last year, Christmas helped. I'm frustrated about it yet, I haven't done much about it. I keep hearing Dr. Phil's voice over and over in my head,

"You gotta get real about fat, or you're going to get real fat."

I realize me mentioning anything about weight can seem like a slap in the face to some who really are struggling with a serious weight issue. Thats not my goal. As runners, I think we all get it. We know when we're not at our optimal weight, even if it's just 2-5 pounds, it bothers us. And that's where I'm at. Calling the elephant out and introducing him. I need to lose some

weight, or I want to. Mostly I want to regain control over my eating and not be owned by the midnight munchies who are responsible for slowing down my race times and making my favorite jeans fit just a little less comfortably.

What's my plan? I don't know yet, but I hoping putting it out there into the cyber world, where I think a few people are reading about it, might keep me in check. (Oh and if you're out there, would you tell me? I'm lonely)

I want to be healthy for Boston and I know I can get there, just have to get my mind around it.

Speaking of food, I meant to take a picture of my favorite meal. My reason for running on some days is simply to taste the wonderfulness of Coconut Curry. The

meal that I would gladly count calories all week just to enjoy after a long run. I meant to take a picture but I was too excited and forgot until it was gone.

Here's my happy plate though.

What a ramble! Anywho, here's what I've been up to since Friday.

Saturday: 12 miles on the treadmill

Sunday: 3 miles outside

Monday: 10 at 5AM

Tuesday: 5 to the gym, lift weights, 2.5 home

The Road (err...tread) To Boston Week 1

Well, I think I'm officially 16 weeks out from the Boston Marathon. I should probably check that calendar. Either way, I feel just fine with where I'm at in training. Most plans call for much lower miles at this point, so I'll consult a schedule in a few days.

I figured I'd see if anyone wanted to follow me to Boston. Therefore, I'd post about my training.

So here's this week's "RUN DOWN."

Monday: 5am Outdoor 10 miler

Tuesday: 5 Mile run to YMCA, lift weights, 2.5 mile run home

Wednesday: 5am Outdoor 10 miler (Beat the "Arctic blast")

Thursday: It was 0 degrees and a windchill of -10, I wimped out and ran 10 miles on the treadmill and lifted weights

Friday: 45 minute spin class, 7 miles on treadmill

Tomorrow I am planning on yet another treadmill run, but thankfully the running group I meet with on Saturday's will be present. Long runs can be done on a treadmill and looking at the record lows were having, I'm guessing my road to Boston might look like this for a while.

A Little Bling To Ring In The New Year

YMCA Frosty 5K Overall Results | January 1, 2010

Place First Name Last Name Age Sex Time Race #

1 Thomas O'Connell 19 m 16:00.89 156

2 Dan Lord 20 m 16:05.98 553

3 John Murphy III 16 m 16:41.67 68

4 John Bogart 36 m 17:52.94 191

5 Michael Pope 41 m 18:23.44 393

6 Leonard Ake 41 m 18:40.49 220

7 Bruce Coffman 49 m 18:59.47 400

8 Scott Hill 31 m 19:11.35 345

9 Morgan McRae 16 m 19:12.03 221

10 Brandon Dorion 15 m 19:18.94 180

11 Mark Penerton 29 m 19:31.65 122

12 Scott Wadle 30 m 19:35.44 128

13 Ricardo Alvarez 34 m 19:39.14 401

14 Steve Larson 30 m 19:40.21 573

15 Dale Bing 57 m 19:41.31 407

16 Zachary Hambrick 16 m 19:42.34 397

17 Jerome Albaret 35 m 19:45.96 179

18 Jonathan Goering 34 m 19:48.74 124

19 Charity Lenzi 33 f 19:50.20 215

20 Alan Farrington 46 m 19:52.66 403

21 Scott Riley 43 m 20:00.17 222

22 Molly Milbourn 17 f 20:04.74 82

23 Chris Hickerson 33 m 20:12.71 274

24 Lacy Hansen 28 f 20:13.89 108

25 Lonnie Awtrey 44 m 20:17.95 276

26 April Gochenour 31 f 20:22.50

http://ymcawichita.org/UserFiles/File/pdf/frosty5-overall.pdf

We celebrated New Years Day by bundling up for a nice 3.1 mile jaunt around the Arkansas River. For whatever reason, the Frosty 5K, is never a PR day for me. Never has been. Maybe it's the late hours kept the night before. Maybe it's the holiday treats catching up with me. Or maybe it's the flippin' cold temps? Either way, I ran my race, but was not able to pull off a PR or even match my previous PR. At one point I was 4th female, then 3rd, then 2nd, then even was 1st for a few yards. I lost first place at mile 2 and became 3rd at mile 2.5 and remained 3rd until the finish. I received a gold medal for being the first in my age group, which is always a thrill, but I was a little bummed to lose the lead.

I stood at the finish line in the sub 20 degree weather and waited on so many of my favorite people to finish. Among the finishers were my parents. My Dad walked away with a little bling as well. Kenton ran bandit and I was just happy to have him there enjoying the sport with me.

We enjoyed soups and chili and were off on our way to enjoy the holiday.

New Years marked the end of the holiday season and the the beginning of BOSTON 2010 TRAINING!!!!

It took a day or two before I swallowed the reality that I'M RUNNING BOSTON T-H-I-S YEAR!

I've been hitting it pretty hard these past two weeks and I plan on posting more often as I work my way to a dream come true.

Happy New Year! I hope you all follow me on this journey. I'm going to need all the support I can get! (It's Boston Baby!)

The Pretentious Christmas Letter of '09

So, it's no big mystery, that I love to write. As I try so hard to condense an entire year into one letter, I tend to go long. Doubtfully the rest of the world cares that much about what we did this year, but they get the letter whether they want it or not. So, for your reading pleasure as well, I present the Hansen Family Christmas Letter of 2009. Merry Christmas Everyone!

Every year we get to this point and decide whether to scrap the Christmas card and letter or not. It always feels like there's just not enough time. So far, we've decided to push through and make it happen one way or another. (Hopefully for your reading pleasure)

If that grammatically incorrect statement above is any indicator of this season, it would be safe to say that it accurately describes our whole year. Hectic, busy, and going on ahead with it despite the chaos! It's been a crazy year. A year of many firsts, many triumphs, a few defeats, and more blessings than we could ever deserve.

Age before beauty, right? Well, if that's so then you can hear about my year in a nutshell first. I, Lacy, have had a great year. I've continued my journey as a "stay-at-home-mom," or "SAHM," as the "cool kids" say. This has included a winter and spring semester of half day pre-k and a full summer off with Judah. Together we savored our last sweet days alone, before the big first day of school arrived in August. We continued to fill our days with the art museum, the library, the water center, the YMCA, the zoo, and any other community event I could get my hands on. I will say that as a SAHM, I've never been good at staying in, but I think Judah and I are better off due to that fact. While Judah and the home have technically been my "job" for the last 6 years, my "hobby" of running hasn't ceased. In fact it's grown to new heights. So much so that one could argue it's my other job now. 2009 brought many wonderful accomplishments in my running life. After years of dreaming to qualify for the Boston Marathon, I'm happy to report that I not only qualified once, but twice in 2009. An unimaginable goal of running a sub- 3:40 marathon in order to meet the Boston Athletic Association's requirements was something I had been chasing for quite some time. 2008 got me close, but left me with a stress fracture just days before the race. After a season of healing and proper training. I crossed the finish line at the 2009 Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon on April 26 in a time of 3:37. I was able to celebrate that long desired dream with my entire family. My Dad even was able to run in the last few emotional miles with me. It was a spectacular day. That race left me with a year of running success. Breaking 20 minutes in a 5k, setting multiple Personal Records (PR's), being the first place overall female finisher in the Jingle Bell 4 Miler, and even winning my first cash prize. See, now you really can call it my "other job." The fall brought me yet another joy in my career. I trained and ran the 2009 Heart Of Wichita Marathon. I was able to better my BQ time by several minutes. I finished the 26.2 mile course in 3:19. I'm happy to report that I'm registered for the historic Boston Marathon in 2010. Lord willing, On April 19, I will celebrate Patriot's Day by running the most famous marathon in the whole world. Kenton and Judah will be waiting for me on Boylston Street in front of the Boston Public Library. Kenton will be there to cheer for me, Judah's going to be there because he heard they have ice cream in Boston.

To say I feel blessed is a watered down, lazy, and overused expression. I'm overwhelmed, speechless infact. I have been given a tremendous gift. A supportive husband who encourages me to go after my dreams. A beautiful son who has blown me a kiss at every finish line I've ever crossed. A family who shows up in the freezing cold, the pouring rain, and the howling wind to cheer me on. And mostly a God who is faithful to give his child the desire of her heart. I have had an indescribable year.

Kenton should really be the author of his story, but he's busy at work right now and would probably never get around to it. So, you get me telling you his story of 2009. The short version, he works a lot in the computer/interweb geek biz, supports his wife during her weekend running career, and plays with Judah until mommy says, "Stop!! You guys are going to break something!"

Kenton has had a lot of change with his career this year. Taking on new areas of the web development world has presented it's many challenges. I know that some days he tells about these challenges specifically, but I don't understand then, so there's no way I could regurgitate them now. I do know that he moved on from his previous company, Thrive, and has just begun his new adventure with "Go Banana." (All you Simpson's fans out there should get a kick out of that name!) Currently Kenton is out on his own, offcing in the historic Delano District of Wichita. He's interwebing and coding with all his heart and comes home very excited about the future of his company.

Other than the consuming work he does to provide for us, he does have some other areas of interest. 2009 brought a surge among the dodgeball community in Wichita. I'm sure Kenton is 99% responsible for that. He has spent most of his Saturday mornings dodging, ducking, diving, dipping, and dodging those red rubber balls. He's entered several tournaments this year. He and the team, Moving Targets, have walked away as top finishers more than once. One event required two female players. Everyone he could think of was busy, so that left me to join the team. After getting socked in the gut, I had a new appreciation for the game he loves so much.

Kenton's love of film and television has grown this year too. Thanks to Hulu, little sleep is ever obtained. Together we enjoy enough shows, but on his own Kenton has managed to keep up with nearly every show that has broadcast this year. Movies are harder to get to with a busy family life, but I know Kenton was stoked to receive an all access pass the this year's Tallgrass Film Festival. I think He managed over five movies in one day during the festival.

If he's not plugged in to his laptop catching up on Hulu, I know he's catching up on the his list of blogs and podcasts. We both enjoy NPR's "Wait Wait Don't Tell Me." However, I think it might be time to get some more respectable news sources as we are nearing the big 3-0 with each passing day.

I think all in all Kenton would call this a trying year. "A long hard road, with a good good end." He's optimistic about the future, this side of a recession and with a fresh new start under him.

Judah and I are very lucky to have him. He really loves to provide for us and does a tremendous job of it. Kenton has placed value on things that others may not. Gently encouraging both Judah and I to go ahead with our goals while he makes the means necessary. Ah, sheesh! Guess I better lay off nerd jokes, he really is a catch!

Then comes baby. Judah Owen. Our bouncing baby boy. He's bigger, he's cuter, and smarter. We actually fear when he'll realize he's superior to us and take us over. So far we've got him fooled that we're in charge and he still needs us.

2009 was a huge year for our little man. He finished his Pre-K class with a delightful ceremony where he received a "Perfect Attendance" award. No, not an outstanding behavior award, an attendance award. If you've spent 5 seconds with him, you'd know the boy is too, how you say ... spirited, to sit quietly in a classroom or any room for too long. Don't get me wrong, he has had an incredible school year. Excelling above and beyond all that was required of him, yet, talking the whole time! He was quickly known in his school by all the teachers because he's just so outgoing. He was excited to finish off his school year with a limo ride to McDonalds. He won a ride with the principal and hasn't stopped talking about it since.

We spent the summer together having all the fun we could. Judah met his goal of 222 books read over the summer. He also learned to swim thanks to his weekly lessons at the Wichita Swim Club. Judah signed up for many races with me this summer and fall. I'd run the long race and together we'd run the "kid race." We spent many mornings going on our "training runs." It's so fun to share running with him. He teaches me a lot about the love of the sport. His racing season included one major accomplishment. He raced the "Rosstoberfest" 1 Miler in October. At age 5 he requested to run alone. As nervous parents and grandparents we all screamed our hearts out while the little guy trucked up the snow hill in College Hill to a 10 minute finish and a 1st place age group award!

Judah's biggest event this year has been becoming a full time Kindergartener at College Hill Elementary. On a rainy day in August we left our baby in the loving care of Mrs. Johnson. While Kenton and I bawled our eyes out and circled the school more than one time that day, "just to check on him," Judah began having the time of his life. He loves school. He has made more friends and has learned so much. He is a top reader and can successfully read books to us every night. He is a very bright boy and is constantly impressing his teachers with all his has learned. And yes, he still talks ALL THE TIME!

In October Judah celebrated his 6th birthday. SIX!! How can that be!? Never the less, he celebrated in style by having a Mad Science Party. Mad Scientist, Kelly Kilo-watt, put on quite a show for his friends. Fire, melting heads, and slime were all a part of his big day. He's kind of on a kick these days. He celebrated Halloween the following weekend by dressing as a mad scientist and getting his maniacal laugh down to a, well, a science!

Judah is the electricity that runs our lives. Some days we're all over the place with him and his high energy. Other days, we're nestled snug in our bed reading him Harry Potter as he calmly listens.

So whether it's an up day or a down day we manage to roll with the punches. Hopefully, this greeting is finding you well as you tackle your daily routines too. We also hope that this season allows you to take a few more calm days to stop and enjoy all you have to be thankful for. We desire to heed our own words and do the same. May the only reason for Christmas and the only reason for anything good and perfect, Jesus, touch you in a real and powerful way this season and everyday.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

All I Want For Christmas Is......

A new toenail!

As the spot got brighter and brighter on Saturday, I realized I was bleeding through my shoe, awesome. More awesome was getting the sock off as it had become one with my toe after 13 miles.

Oh the glamor!

It was a nice gift as I officially entered Boston Training. If I were following a strict 18 week plan, last week would have been the first week. However, I'd have to back off my miles to start at the beginning. I think I'll let the weeks catch up with me for a while and start going above 13 mile long runs in January. For now, I'm buying time with this dry, fair enough weather and getting about 50 miles a week in. As training progresses I'll have to do less weekly miles to save up for those long runs.

I'm hoping this training session to take it one day at a time and avoid burnout. Boston is the reward for all the hard work, I want to enjoy it!

Overcooked Jingle Bells

Yesterday was Wichita's 22nd Annual Jingle Bell Run. A great winter race to support the Arthritis Foundation. This was my fourth year to run the race. This was the best year by far.

Despite some extra chilly temps, try 25 degrees at the 9:30 start, the sunny morning turned out to be just perfect.

So, since I have a addiction to miles and didn't feel four would be quite enough for a Saturday, I met my running buddies for a very cold 7 AM run. I ducked out early and ran home with 6 and 1/2 miles under me. I cleaned up and got out my "Team Sno-Balz" attire. My entire family joined a huge team this year. We had over 30 member's. You knew us by our fuzzy stockings. So I elfed up. I got Judah elfed up and super cute, I might add. Kenton layered up with every article of clothing he owned. His costume would have to ride in the hatchback until we got to the race.

We rolled up to the WaterWalk Condos and squeezed Kenton into his spectacular costume.Yep! He was a Fireplace! This came from a childhood desire to dress as one for Halloween, but never getting to. A "life dream," if you will. His costume was the absolute best! From the moment we got out of the car people were cracking up. He was stopped over 50 times and asked to be in a picture.

We met up with The Sno-Balz right before the 4 mile start.

Greg the Christmas Tree was on our team too. (Real working lights, mind you!)

After a team huddle we all parted and lined up for the 4 mile start. Judah and Kenton were signed up for the 1 mile. (Kenton conveniently had the excuse of 'being a fireplace' to get him out of the 4 miler.) I lined up with my Dad, my "Uncle Dennis," Travis, and a few other men wearing the stockings with fur. Dennis leaned over and asked, "what are you going to run today? A 26?" Honestly, I had planned to have fun and stay injury free. Since I've aggravated my knee muscle, I've been very cautious. Friday was the first time I ran in three weeks without pain. I just planned to run comfortably and see what happened. Plus it was freakin' cold and that can always slow me down a bit. So, I answered, "I don't know, we'll see."

Once the Garmin's located satellites, the horn blew and we were off. I waved at my little elf and my fireplace and headed out over the river. Within the first mile the race turns and gets on the river bike path. I quickly saw that I was the third female. With both the women in very close range, my "have fun" attitude kinda took a backseat to, "this might be your first chance to win a race." By mile one I had passed both women and hoped like crazy that was the end of the race as long as I could hold my pace.

1 and a 1/2 miles in I realized I over dressed and I was sweating like crazy. I later told Kenton, "I know why Santa chooses this kind of hat to travel out in the elements", I was burnin' up!

At about mile 2.5 the path goes up over a bridge and I looked back to see woman number 2 was too close for comfort. I was hurting and really not enjoying the blast of wind the greeted me at the turn around. Heading back towards the start was very gusty and too long for comfort. Once I passed mile 3 I had to just tell myself, "less than a mile to go." And I had to stop thinking about the soup I had for dinner because it wanted to make a second appearance. I could see the final turn and knew I was so close. As the path turned I could see my opponent and knew that she was now too far to catch me. I ran up the small hill and headed for home.

26:45 and it was all over. I couldn't move my over-layered hands so the volunteer pulled my tab. The MC with the mic asked her to read the name and then he announced over the PA, "our female winner today is Lacy Hansen."

http://runwichita.org/siteadmin/raceresults_file/369.txt

Whew! I had done it. I won. It's something that's been on the list. Another "life dream." I've come so close. I have taken second several times, even last year at the Jingle Bell Run. But This time I was first. I was so winded and thirsty, I couldn't even enjoy it for a few minutes. After some water and some cheering from my lovely fireplace, I felt pretty good. I went over to the 2nd place finisher and congratulated her and thanked her for pushing me so hard.

I later told Kenton that it was awesome to win, but I still felt like it was a fluke. I didn't set a PR and I knew that the Wichita "Fast Girls" were out on a long run, as I saw them when I was out earlier. So I had to keep it in perspective that had they shown up, I would have been schooled, BIG TIME!

But the little kid in me says, "They didn't show!! SO, I win!!!"

One by one The Sno-Balz all came flying across the finish line. Even some little guys turned in some great times. Once the last few walkers made it in, the announcer said it was time to line up for the 1 mile. My elf and fireplace made it to the front of the line and caused quite a stir among the few remaining participants who hadn't seen them yet.

The horn blew and as a family we ran off. I ran with Judah and had such a great time. I mentioned to him as he slowed, "You know, the faster you run, the sooner we can get back to the burgers and pizza." He asked, "You'll let me have both?" "I don't care, " I said. He bolted so fast I couldn't catch him. We crossed the bridge over the river and watched as Kenton's "aerodynamic" costume whirled him around. Judah caught Kenton and we ran it in as a family. Judah tried to hamstring Kenton at the finish, pretty cute!

We headed in immediately to make good on the promise of food for Judah.

The festivities took place in an empty retail lot in the developing WaterWalk Condos. Nothing too pretty, no lights, chairs, or a clean wall to lean against, but it was much warmer than outside.

We ate and laughed at Kenton as he tried to get food to his mouth, given his limited range of motion.

The awards ceremony started and I was so pleased to receive a Jingle Bell for my age group and then to be called back to receive a Medal for my first place finish. They had me on stage and took several pictures and then brought out a Coleman Grill as my prize. I was so surprised. A man carried it off for me and I went back with big smiles.

After the race awards were handed out, the costume division was up. Hands Down Kenton had the best costume and sure enough they called him up and gave him a medal. Then, they gave him a Coleman grill too!!!

Almost in tears, I cracked up as a man stacked a second grill next to mine. We won 2 grills!!!

After several strangers had to come and gawk at our "very unique" family we took some pictures and decided to call it a morning.

There you have it. Two life dreams coming true in one morning. One to win a race, the other to be a fireplace. Both rewarded handsomely. Lesson: Never stop chasing your dreams!