Beautiful

I read this on a fellow blogger's page today and felt it was to impactufl and beautiful not to share.

"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others."

Our Deepest Fear by Marianne Williamson from A Return To Love: Reflections on the Principles of A Course in Miracles

MY MARATHON EXPERIENCE brought to you by Megan Luckie...

Cherish your visions and your dreams as they are the children of your soul, the blueprints of your ultimate achievements.
Napoleon Hill


I will begin by saying that I am thrilled. After five long, hard, yet wonderful months of training, I came, I ran, I survived and I conquered!



In my very first blog last January I said ...
I am doing this blog for me. A way to reflect back and for others to join me along on this journey. In the end, I hope that you will see a photo of me at the finish line hugging my family, smiling and upright!"
Well, mission accomplished and who says you can't finish smiling? Attached is a photo album for you follow along the before, during and after. As you can see it was quite a weekend!

Marathon weekend began at the Luckie house on Saturday night. Patrick and I packed up the kids at 8:00 at night, drove the route and posted the motivational signs. Patrick although not surprised that I would have created motivational signs, still wondered why I can't just be a spectator! Why? Well, why not I say. Then at home, I laid out my running gear on the table the table, charged all of the electronics, loaded the iPod and even put out the oatmeal, bowl and spoon for my breakfast ritual. Then I headed to bed at 10pm praying for a decent sleep but not, without putting on two alarm clocks first. One set for 4:45 and the other for 5:00AM. I was having visions of that Seinfeld episode where the runner sleeps in because Kramer is the wake up call. Anyways...

Sunday I woke up on time, called Ara, rolled my IT bands, ate breakfast and got dressed. Birds chirping and forecasting a beautiful day. Then I had a lovely surprise... Nicolas set his alarm too to wish me good luck. (Awh...he's proud of me!) Confirmed with a text on the way to the starting point. "GOOD LUCK MOM, I KNOW YOU WILL DO GREAT". Hey for those of you with a tween you know a text from a 12 year old is BIG!

So we arrive at the race with 1hr before race time. Lots of time to use the Port-a-potties (YUCK), take photos and attach the "First Marathon" balloons. WOW! We are getting a lot of looks. One girl say "See you need a balloon like that!" The girl responds "Ah NO I do not!" What?? Well, let me tell you after hitting numerous people with the balloons just waiting for the gun to go off. We decided we would each pull the emergency release cords right at the starting gates. Perfect photo opportunity and what a way to send us off right? (Even if Ara was concerned about the birds)

And...we were off!

The goal: To complete, smiling and under 5hrs.

0-30Km's: Running a steady pace with my RBC running pal, Mike Lin. So nice to have a buddy to share this with. We were chatting the whole way and I even let out a Homer Simpson "Woo Hoo" every Km. Mike said I was crazy and was surely annoying the other runners but secretly I think he enjoyed it. Mike's trusty GARMIN would tell us when we were running too fast or too slow but for the most part we were running at a 6:30 - 6:45/km. Strong and Steady.

30Km": Mike's legs started to hurt. Crap!! Mike is an amazing in line skater but training two sports at the same time tends to take its toll. Worried for Mike and sad that we wouldn't finish together I new he would push through and I just needed to get this done.

Oh I forgot to mention the signs for the Mississauga Luckie Shoe on a post. You are suppose to touch it for good luck. Come on! There's a lucky shoe. How perfect and how could I not.

Ok, time to call Patrick it's 31K. I know I know. Cell phone in a race. Who does that? Well, let me just tell you with over 12,000 runners at this event, and when your family is looking for one person, it wasn't just me. It is almost impossible to see and find your loved ones without giving them a heads up that you are coming.

35K: Left ankle starting to hurt. Oh man. Really? I just needed to call Patrick. He answers, thank god! And, wow it was exactly what I needed. Just hearing him say, "Your doing great babe. Running a good, steady pace and your almost there". Yup. I can do this. That and thank god for the spectators. Let me just put on record how much I love personalized bibs. There are complete strangers sitting on the sidelines for hours cheering on runners. Locals came out on their lawns with sprinklers, fruit, even a bag of pretzels. (Ok that was weird) But I did love it when they would call out my name and say I was amazing. Mike laughed at me when i asked him if he too pretend that they are relatives that came out to cheer us on. Doing good, holding strong.

40K: Ok just one more call. I just want to make sure they no I am almost there. By then, I know that they have been waiting for me to cross for over an hour. Patrick answers "Only 2K left. We are all waiting for you at the finish line!" Sweet.

With less than 2k to go : A sweet Police man pulls up beside me on his bike. We chat. I ask... "SO, are you going to pace me in?" "Why not! I paced in the elite winners, seems only fair" Awesome! Come on! How many people get a police escort for their first marathon?. So of course I had to gun it, finish line in sight...

I turn right to run down the chute and there's Dad and Nicolas with yellow happy balloons. Woo HOO! I am here and running on a complete runners high that or adrenaline. It could also be the caffeine in the five gels that I took but who cares. Honestly I felt like this the whole way. Finishing strong and in no real pain. I book it down the ramp. (See the money shot!) I see Patrick and Dave standing on rocks. I am here! I am here! I see Lys, Mom, Kristopher, Mara, Toby. Then ... Lys lifts Paige over the gates which I thought was for a big hug and kiss. No wait, she wants to run with me and she's been asking for an hour. Ok. Off we go! We run through the finish. Never seen a four year old run so fast. The announcer calls us in "Megan Luckie! 32 from Mississauga and look running with a little Luckie. And, what a Luckie day it is" WOO HOO!! What a perfect way to end.

I finished in 4hrs and 58 mins. Yes after Oprah (4:30, after Ben Mulroney who was at the event but before KATIE HOLMES! Woo Hoo. Exhausted. Maybe. But thrilled. Absolutely! We hug, cry, kiss, take photos and celebrate at CORA's. Couldn't have asked for a better first!

Now, what's next you ask?
One word. MICKEY!

Day before...

It is officially "Marathon Weekend" at the Luckie house. There are balloons, signs, crafts, markers, shoes and running gear spread all over the house. This marathon has taken over! Patrick thinks that I may be boarding on obsessive? Really?! Well, there is definitely a lot of energy in the air. Is it nerves, anticipation, fear or all of the above.

So, yesterday was the Running Expo. For those non-runners, an Expo is where you go to get your bib number, a free race tshirt, fill up on testers, free garb and my favorite part... LAST MINUTE SHOPPING! Which lead to the purchase of a new running top and hat. Yes I know, you aren't suppose to wear something new on race day but I just couldn't help myself. The big news is that I am runner BIB #494! We had to go to this wall to find our last name and corresponding bib number. The 5K list was huge, 10K similar, Half list was getting smaller and then the FULL list... very tiny. Although easy to find my name. Do they know something I don't?

The freebies were a bit disappointed mostly because I missed lunch and there wasn't a stitch of food in the race kit. Not even free peanuts! The vendors at the EXPO were not as impressive as Scotia's Waterfront but... I guess it will have to do. Probably much better for the pocket book anyways. But, the best part of the day with the exception of the cute shirt... was a good nights sleep! (hich is very important to me as most of you know.) Not expecting the same tonight.

Now that takes us to today. Today began with an 8am 3K run. Yes, I did say 3K. It was the taper run which is supposedly in the program to remind your legs how to work, but in my opinion I think its main purpose is to run off race day jitters. Which it did, sort of. (Except that I can hear my good friend JoAnne's voice in my head counting hours now.) JoAnne stop counting!

Oh and the much anticipated wind test? Well, wind trials took place this morning. It started with me getting out of the car with the balloons and getting violently whacked in the face. BUT! There was unusually strong winds today, no? We shall see tomorrow after a bit of re-engineering. Hoping that by changing the string and providing further support with safety pins may aid better results tomorrow. The safety pins better not wreck my new shirt! Lys did make me laugh when she said "Nice! The balloon says YES THIS IS MY FIRST MARATHON, like yes it's my first therefore I feel it justifies me making myself as annoying as possible"

Now, what's left on the agenda? It's 3:00. I have to go and pick up new contacts, the boys and I have to put up 9 signs with hope that 1.) No one takes them down 2.) Disfigures them or 3) That Kristopher and I don't get charged for putting up unregistered signs in a residential area. Then home for Lasagna dinner and a good nights sleep. 5:00 Wake up call.

Ipods loaded!
Till next time.
Meg

2 more sleeps...

Getting nervous. Enjoying the taper and had my first Jewish bakery bagel in a long time today. Mmm... carb loading. Right?

Marathon Signs

Tonight is "Craft" night at the Luckie house!
The kids made some adorable signs for me. Sniff sniff. We will also make seven motivational signs that will be posted every 6K. The signs are yellow to match our team colour and yes, to match the yellow :) balloon. See below.

Kristopher and I will drive the route on Saturday and stick the signs up, with hopes that they don't walk off on us over the night. If not, do keep your eye out for them and are on short little wooden sticks stuck into the ground. Like I said they will be located at 6, 12, 18, 24, 30, 36, 40k. Still haven't 100% decided on what they will say but here some samples...

Funny Signs...

"In our minds, you're all Kenyans."
"Your feet hurt because you are kicking so much butt!"
"Your legs will forgive you...eventually."
"Don't stop -- people are watching." - MY #1 FAVORITE!!
"That's not sweat, it's your fat cells crying."
"If it was easy, I would do it."
"Run like you stole something."
"This is easier than labor and delivery."
"You're not slow. You're just enjoying the course." MY #2 FAVORITE!!
"Don't worry, toenails are overrated."
"Run like someones chasing you."
"It'll feel better when it stops hurting."
"Mortuary ahead....look alive!"
"If I ran it, by God, you can, too."

Motivation Signs...

"On this day, you're my hero."
"Pain is temporary, pride is forever."
"You've done harder things than this."
"You made it to the START, you will make it to the FINISH."
"Pain is just weakness leaving your body."
"Remember the reasons you are running."
"It's not 26.2 miles…it's 10 water stops."
"Last is just the slowest winner."
"My mommy is faster than your mommy."
"If it was easy, everyone would do it."
The person who starts the race is not the same person who finishes the race." MY #3 FAVORITE
"This 26.2 is for all the girls picked last in gym class."

Paige's Sign - "Run FAST Mommy! Run FAST!"
Kristopher's Sign - "Run Mom Run! Mom, I love you! Go Team JAM'N"

Balloon...
And, yes I did by it. I purchased the race balloon! Now I just need to decide, do I run with it, or does Paige carry it? Either way, the yellow balloon will be making an appearance on Sunday.

Seven more sleeps!

My last and final week before "Marathon Day" Week 18. What a journey! Not even sure what to say tonight since there is so much going on in my head.

(Am I eating enough?, Am I eating too much?, Is it the right food?, Carb? Protein? I am so confused. I know that I should be drinking lots, water that is. Did I really only have to run 16k yesterday and 6k today? Am I tapering right? What about race day ... it's only 7 more days away. When do I have to get up - 4:00?, What will the weather be like? What will I wear? Will my family really come out and cheer me on? Will they see me in the sea of runners? Will my new shoes be broken in enough? How about my knee - will it hold out? It better! But mostly --- I REALLY HOPE I MAKE IT!! I am going to make it, right?"

Breathe...

The race is on Sunday and starts at Square One at 7:30am. I am anticipating to do it between 4:45-5:00hrs. Which would mean finishing after Oprah and Lance but before Katie Holmes. Either way I should be crossing the finish line around 12:15 - 12:30. The finish line is at the port credit park. (opposite side of the road to the lighthouse)

I have included some of the popular spectator spots, just in case any of you are thinking of come out to cheer us on! Mississauga Rd and Burnhamthorpe Rd. - you must approach from the west. (approx 4km mark)... I should be crossing around 755am, Orr Rd. and Southdown Rd. - approach from the west. (approx 22km mark)... 10am, Jack Darling Park, Waterfront Trail (approx 28km mark)... 10:40 Port Credit lighthouse (approx 32km mark & finish line) ...11:00 St. Lawrence Park (approx 37km mark) ... 11:40 Adamson Estate (39km mark)... 11:54am. Lots of road closures so take that in to account when planning out when to leave.

Plans for the rest of the week? Well, the kids and I will be busy working making some signs to support me and my running club! Sad, but runners really do get a kick out of a good sign. (Guess it's because there is nothing else to do when you are out running in the elements for over four hours!) Here are some of the examples: 'Suck it up princess', 'its rude to count the number of people your passing out loud', 'the pain is momentary the joy feeling of crossing the finish line is forever' .... Either way - as long as people are there and cheering, it doesn't really matter what the sign says.

I did try to convince the kids to carry balloons so that I can spot them easier, but I am starting to think that asking Patrick to transport three kids to a marathon on a Sunday morning, in search for parking when half of Mississauga's roads are closed, and locating me running all in black in a sea of 10,000 runners. Then to bring along balloons, noise makers and signs may be pushing my luck. I do keep saying that I am going to run with a balloon but the looks and reactions I receive when I tell people this ... well, lets just say that I am starting to second guess my decision.

So, that's all for now I guess. Now, I just have to push through and get through the week. Drink, eat, rest and enjoy that the hard part is over now. Now... I wait.

7 more sleeps and then I will join 5% of the population who have ever run and completed a marathon!

Ten More Sleeps...

With only ten more sleeps to go, I would be lying if I didn't say that I am starting to feel nervous. Don't get me wrong, I am still thinking positive and I know in my heart that I WILL cross that finish line. But, I am still a bit sceptical on how I will add an additional 10k on race day to my longest distance to date. Supposedly adrenaline will carry me through, that or that I will be so delirious that I will just keep going. Left, Right and Repeat!

So, it is now Week 17 of 18, I have technically begun my taper. For those who don't know ... Tapering is a term used in endurance sports and basically means to reduce an athlete's training load before a major race. Personal experience and scientific research have both come to the conclusion that a period of enforced rest before racing significantly increases the athlete's level of fitness and boosts his performance by an average of 3%. Reducing weekly and long run mileage during these final two weeks is vitally important so that you will be fully recovered from previous workouts while at the same time, be completely rested for the big event. For marathon runners three per cent boils down to being about 5-10 minutes faster over their racing distance.
TAPER = LESS RUNNING, LESS FOOD AND MORE WATER (One thing I learned from my last taper is if you don't watch how much you eat you can gain weight on your taper. ARGH!)


At 8:30pm tonight, it was still raining, the kids were in bed and I even had my pj's on but the guilt got the better of me. Tonight I am suppose to be running the last night of my speed work.
Ok. Ok. I am going. I got changed into my running clothes and shoes. I headed down to the dungeon to run on the treadmill. Treadmill really isn't that appealing anymore unless it is snowing outside. Plus there is no longer a TV downstairs and the playroom is in dire need of a good cleaning. (Don't look at the mess Megan - Just ignore the mess) I ran the first 3K warm up and was about to call it a night, just wasn't feeling it, but then I thought to myself what can I do to keep going hmm... NICOLAS!. So I paused the treadmill, ran up to Nicolas room and said "Wanna be my stop watch?" "sure?!?" he replied. It's amazing how much faster and determined you run when you have your 12yr old son sitting their counting down the minutes and seconds you have left to go. No slacking off with him around. Guess all that Cadet training is paying off. Long story short, I clocked 9K and ran the track 22 laps and 14 of them at 5.0min/km. My speed work is now done for the day HURRAY no guilt and to top it all off it was actually quite nice to do with Nicolas. I wish he would come for a run with me again. (Even if I can't keep up with him). :)

Guess it's time for bed.
Till next time,
Meg
.

Counting down...

2 more weeks to go. Yikes!

We are hard-core man... Hard-core!

Hard-core also hard·core (härdkôr, -kr)adj.
Definition: Intensely loyal individual; die-hard or .....
people crazy enough to go outside in the pouring rain, 50km winds and run for 3.5hrs.

What makes this sick is that we did all of this laughing, chatting and ok with a bit of bitching. But ... at the end of the day we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.
(More proof that we are still riding the crazy train)

Today's run was 32kms and also our last 32k until the big day. Which just so happens to be exactly three weeks from today. Yikes! Today was very wet and at times miserable, but for the most part I was just happy to be out with the girls, running without pain and I can now say that I have officially run my fasted and longest distance to date.

To celebrate -- Cora's Restaurant! Woo Hoo!
I have attached photos for you to see what kind of breakfast you get to eat when you burn 2049 calories. What you don't see in the picture is the yummy Cup O' latte that washed it all down. Mmmmmm...










I have also included pics of my very happy, now dry and content running pals. I couldn't have done it without them. xo.















Today was a great day!
Time for bed. zzzzzzzzzz
Meg

Last 32K!!

Starting to feel nervous... tomorrow is our last 32km run.

This week started off a bit rocky but I am happy to report that I did get four runs in (THANK YOU JoAnne), survived two physio appointments and even added a skate in there.

With only three weeks left till the big day, I am just trying to remain positive and praying that my IT/knee cooperates.

And yes I may have to wake up at 6am tomorrow but looking forward to the breakfast with the girls afterwards seems to make it all a bit easier.

Time for bed?

28 days and counting

till the big day and what a day it was!

I started the day early with a 6am wake up. (Yes. I did say 6am and on a Sunday. I know!)

Even though today's run was a distance that I have completed a few times before, today's run had a special buzz to it because we were running 29kms of the official 42km marathon route.

Running the route is not an easy task. Hence, the 6am start. Well worth it. This was a great way to prepare for the race and for me it was also a way to take away some of the anxiety I had about going up and down the Mississauga Road hill. I was also curious/praying that my ITB would hold out.

Now, in order to run the route ment starting and ending in a different location and requires a bit of logistical planning. We met at the Running Room store at 7am, carpooled to the finish spot (Port Credit arena) and then carpooled to the starting point. Complicated? Yes a bit. But I did what I was told while praying that I would just make it back to my car.

Packing last night, Patrick very subtly and sweetly said "Just make sure your phone is charged" and this morning when he rolled over and looked at the alarm clock at 6am he mumbled "Have fun?!?" I seriously don't know how I would have ever been able to come this far and commit so much of my family time without such a supportive partner. Don't get me wrong, I definitely think there have been times where he thinks this is all crazy. Especially on the days when he watches me hobbling down the stairs. Patrick is famous for saying "So glad you are doing all this to feel good". But Patrick has never made me feel guilty, not once for taking all this "Me TIME". I am very "Luckie".

So today ... it started off dark, overcast and cold. But an hour into the run, I was stripping off my coat, enjoying the warm sun, saying Good Morning to the hoards of fellow runners and bikers that came out to join in on the fun. Even the car/drivers seemed to be more pleasant than usual. I must say it was pretty cool to see and follow all of the road closure signs that had been put up to prepare the locals for the race day delays. Starting to feel very real!

My start was a bit slow. I had a bit of difficulty going up and down the U of T hills but it was manageable. Could it be the $20 ITB band I was wearing? All the additional stretching? Or could my legs just be getting better? Who knows. Either way - I was just happy not to be walking. I ran relatively pain free till the half way point, which was a Tim Hortons. So Canadian eh?? But, this was no normal Tim Hortons, this Tims had a hidden cooler filled with water and gator-aid. The cooler was hidden by one of our group members Anne and stationed for the group to replenish our liquids. After having a quick washroom break and having the Tim Hortons staff say "Keep it up!" We were back on our way.

20k marker... still going. A nice run through Jack Darling Park and the with the CN Tower in site, I was starting to feel like I had been running for hours. Oh yah. I was! Then the 25k mark... still hanging on. Finally, back on the lakeshore and in the homestretch. Over the walking bridge and then I saw it ... the parking lot. The same parking lot where I left my comfortable car hours ago. And if seeing the car wasn't enough to bring a smile to my face, I also saw the rest of my running group in the parking lot, car trunks open and waiting with a medley of drinks and munchies to celebrate another Sunday done! Woo Hoo!

So what's next? Speed work! 3 Sunday runs, a 32k, 24k, a blissful 6k taper and then ... 42kms!

Breathe...

Yours is the Earth and everything that's in it...

A good friend shared this poem below with me today. Couldn't be more fitting, so I thought I would add it to the blog to share with you. Thanks BOB!

If you can fill the unforgiving minute
With sixty seconds’ worth of distance run –
Yours is the Earth and everything that’s in it,
And – which is more – you’ll be a Man, my son!- Rudyard Kipling


Weekly Update: Sun - 30K Mon - Boot camp, Tues - 6k, Wed - 10k (7hills), Thurs - 10k Tempo, Fri/Sat - off and Sun - 20 (Grand total of 76K in eight days) No wonder I need ADVIL and icy hot.

Today was a beautiful day for a run. Couldn't ask for better weather. I ran with my good friend Mary and ran a 6.4 min/km. Then around the 12k mark my ITB started to flare up again. Argh! How frustrating when your body wont cooperate with your mind. I did push through, dreaming about the Starbucks chat at the end and the bottle of ADVIL waiting for me when I got home. Technically, I was ok as long as I didn't stop running. Which does make for an interesting run when you can't stop, for stop lights or cars.

Well, I am glad to say I finished and I made it back to the store, even if the end wasn't pretty. I have now gone for a walk with Paige, watched the kids play baseball and am very much looking forward to a steak dinner and glass of wine tonight!

Till next week,
Megan

What's your favorite?

I had no idea what a conversation starter that t.shirt slogans would be. So it only fair to make this into a game of course.




Here is a listing of the shirts with slogans that I can purchase at the EXPO to wear for my race. I have selected my top five, correction ten, but don't let that influence your vote.

My top favorites:
1. "I'm only doing this so I can post a picture on Facebook."

2. "Slow is the new fast"

3. "If it wasn't for me - you would have nobody to pass"

4. "Only ONE More Mile -
Back: Dear God, please let there be someone behind me to read this."

5. "You think I run funny? Back: Wait till you see me walk tomorrow!"

6. "OK! Who moved the finish line?"

7. "This IS my race pace"

8. "This sounded like a good idea, a long time ago"

9. "In my dreams, I am a Kenyan"

10. "Find your happy pace"

More...


"I took the road less traveled, and now WHERE THE HECK AM I?

"Does this shirt make my butt look like fast?"

"It's all about the medal!"

"May the course be with you"

"Canadians Do It Metric 42.2"

"I know I know… I am almost there"

"I know, I know - I said I'd NEVER do this again."

"Will run for wine/chocoate and coffee"

"Toenails are for sissys"

Finally...

FRONT: You know you're a runner when...
BACK:
You can recite the dialogue from chariots of fire.
Your vacations are planned around marathons.
You lube up to get into your clothes to prevent chafing.
Your friends don't call you anymore to go out on Saturday nights.
The majority of t-shirts in your closet have sponsors and race dates on them.
You consider gels a food group.
You consider a half marathon a good "training" run.
You can say fartlek without laughing.
You buy advil and Epsom salts in bulk.
You can correctly spell plantar fasciitis.

Looking forward to hearing your pick.

Slogan of the day - You can throw in the towel or you can pick up the towel and use it to wipe off your forehead and keep on running.

Broken but not yet beaten

Yes. I may have been broken but I am not beaten and the good news is ... I may be on the mend.

As I move into the 16th week of my training and the marathon is now 37 days away, I have a few confessions to make:

1.) This was a lot harder than I expected.
Now don't get me wrong. I knew that this would be hard, but I don't think anyone really understands the time commitment, dedication and physical demands this training can put on your body.

2.) I haven't come this far without setbacks.
Injuries, pulled muscles and frequent visits to the physiotherapist and massage therapist.


3. I completed my 30km training race on March 28th, in Hamilton but this goal did not come without tears. Although I crossed the finish line, got the medal and the photo let's just say it really didn't go as planned.

Let me share my Around the Bay experience:
Ara, JoAnne and I drove to Hamilton. We even had time to stop for a Tim Horton tea. Things felt ok, but I was well aware that I was having issues with my knee and even before I started my knee felt tight. "It's just a slow training run, it's not a race." I repeated in my head over and over. That and "Right, Left, Repeat"

Now, for those that don't know Hamilton's Around the Bay Road Race is the oldest on the continent, first run in 1894, three years before the Boston Marathon. It is known for it's challenging route and those that who have run this race say if you can run the ATB 30k, you can run a flat Mississauga 42kms. Let's just say there is a reason!

The starting gun went off, I ran a comfortable 10k through a not so pretty area of Hamilton. I even had some interesting conversations along the way. Hey, when you are running beside the same people for 3-4 hours, its kinda hard not to chat. Plus you know me, I love this stuff and cant help myself.

One of the memorable conversations was with an an 86 year old man who was running in bowling shoes. I started the conversation by saying "You look like a man who has ran this race before." He responded. "I am 86, I have run this race more times than I can count and I will continue to run until I can't run anymore." Amazing, eh? and yes he did end up finishing before me.

I continued running at a comfortable pace and saw the sign for Burlington around 20km. 2hrs 22mins in and right on pace. Then came the hills...now I was anticipating the hills but had no idea that the race was poorly named and should have been called UP THE F"IN Mountain! I was experience excruciating pain on the side of my left knee and for those who have ever experienced ITB pain, you know how this can stop you dead in your tracks. Even walking became difficult. My slow and steady run quickly changed to a sad looking speed walk. 3hrs in and the sky went dark and it began to rain. SERIOUSLY! SERIOUSLY! I asked the skies.

Then I saw a girl named Angie. She looked ill/white. I stopped to ask "Are you ok?" She responded "No. I have pulled both my groin muscles". Ok, this just proves it. No matter how bad you think you feel, there is always someone else who has it worse. Angie said, "My family is waiting at the finish line but I just don't think I can do this." "Yes you can and we will do it together." Angie and I walked the remaining kms and when Copps Coliseum came into sight, we ran down the ramp and into the building to cross the finish line. We were done in 4hrs. (40 minutes later than what I expected), but this didn't matter we were done. Without hesitation the two of us hugged and thanked each other for the support.

I am a strong believer that their are guardian angels and periodically they show up when you are running. At times where you need a friend, encouragement or support. I know I have experienced this and hopefully on that day, I did my part to pay that forward. Another cool thing... Angie told me that she is also running the Mississauga Marathon, so I will look for her and hope to see her again.

Moral of the blog... yes running is hard, painful at times, but even a setback can be positive experience and at the end of the day I love to run. 37 days and counting!

If at first you don't succeed, try try again...

Week 10 Summary: 3 runs, 2 bootcamp sessions, 2 painful physio appointments, 1 accupuncture appointment = 30Km! Woot Woot!

I am also proud to say that this Sunday there wasn't any rain, any standing in a phone booth and the emergency pick up was not required. So how did I celebrate my longest distance to date?... a Grande Non-fat White Chocolate Mocha with whip, an ice shower and a hour sitting in the coldest arena in Ontario watching Kristopher play his last hockey game at the All-Star Select tournament. (3 goals/1 assist)

Here's today's route and my quote of the day. http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=3556946

"Just remember – right, left, right, left....repeat."

Next Step - Around the Bay 30k race March 28th in Hamilton. Which I hope to do in less than today (3hrs and 17 minutes)but honestly who am I kidding I will be happy to just see the finish line.

Gotta run!
Meg

Rain Rain Go Away...

Come again another day!

Update: Week 9 has been a rough one. The weather was great til Wednesday, Tuesday I had a nice morning run, I completed the six hills (barely) on Wednesday but I have started to feel some more aches and pains. No more bloody toes though, so that's a good thing. But today ... today was suppose to be an easy 19kms! Except mother nature thought otherwise and it was 19kms in the torrential rain, wind and with a sore knee. Lets just say it was a ROUGH run today that ended in Patrick coming to pick me up from a phone booth! Sniff. Sniff. Oh well. Can't win them all. But was it the weather gods mocking me for saying "Oh we are only running 19kms on Sunday."?Or could it be because I was boasting about the good run last week? Either way I will ice my knee and put my shoes back on and try try again.

The plan: Next weekend we increase to 29 and hopefully do a dry run of the Around the Bay 30K race route in Hamilton. (Praying that the legs hold out for that.) Looking forward to a massage on Wednesday with some acupuncture. Yeah needles!

Well, time to put the jammies on and stay inside for the rest of the day. Stay dry!

Till next week!
Megan

26k down, now I just need to add 16k more ...

The week started off rough but I finished in good form and completed my first 26K. Couldn't have asked for better weather today. I ran in a long sleeve, without a jacket, without gloves and not a balaclava in sight.

I am not sure if it was because I ran based on heart rate instead of pace, if it was the awesome new play list or the beautiful weather, but the stars were aligned and the end result was a FABULOUS run. I completed in just over 3hr and it was the first Sunday in a long time that I wasn't completely exhausted at the end.

I finished the run, did my stretching, replaced my bloody sock (I know have runner toes and I am officially a runner) Yes, that is disgusting and enough said about that. I drank my skinny Dolche Cinnamon latte with the group, went to the arena and watched Kristopher score six goals and had a visit with the in laws. Very full day. Now I am looking forward to putting up my sore/stiff ol bones and watching ... THE Oscars. (LOVE OSCAR NIGHT) Looking forward to see the opening monologue with Steve Martin and what spin Mr. Baldwin can put on the evening.

Here is the route we ran today if anyone wants to see the visual. ("Furthest I have gone without a motor" is what a fellow runner said today.)
http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=3521403

Nighty Night.
Meg

Flu 1 , Megan 0

Week 8 - Started out great. I ran my very first 23k and it took just over 2hrs and 40 minutes. A bit slower than I expected but hey, it isn't about speed with this girl. I am like a tortise but hello this is the farthest I have ever run.

My celebration was short lived when just hours after completing my run, the flu bug hit. :( I spent two full days at home and off work. It is now already Friday and I am just going out for my first run this week. A slow and steady 8K is the plan, then 6K tomorrow and on Sunday my goal is complete my first 26K run.

As promised, here is the Nike video that a great friend sent me. I cant help but love this cartoon. Seriously! You gotta watch it, even if it does have barking Collies in it. (Lys, Dave you totally hear Mom's dogs in this video don't you?) I have played this song on my ipod more times than I can count and it has come in handy on those long Sundays. I know I will be playing it again on May 16th.
Speaking of that I am looking for some new IPOD running songs any suggestions?


Well, gotta run!
Watch the video & don't forget to send me a good running song.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oZHBSBG7RSs
Meg

Quick Summary: Week 7 - Survived the first night of hill training, attending regular chiro/physio appointments and feeling a bit scared and queasy about this Sundays 23k run.

For those who don't know 23kms will be the longest distance I have ever run. I expect it will take at least 2.5hrs to complete. Hopefully we don't get too much snow tonight. Better eat a good breakfast, have a bathroom on the route and lots of pre/post stretching.

Snap Crackle Pop - "OH CRAP!"

Summary of Week 6 - Tuesday 6K, Wednesday 10K, Thursday 8K, Friday off, Sat Spinal Adjustment and Sunday 19K

Started the week out VERY sore. Thinking that the amount of running I am doing is starting to take a toll on my body a bit. Thankfully I am not the only one in the group, because for a while I thought I was. Then I realized that everyone in the group has their own ache and pains and it is all just par for the course. Serves me right for thinking that I could go without my Princess Pain appointments last week. Boy did my body tell me otherwise. But, I did do my four runs grudgingly and ran a total distance of 43K.

Saturday was the earliest appointment I could make with my athletic therapist/chiropractor. I arrived early and a bit humble. I went apologizing, and admitting that yes I should have come last week. But, the good news is my shins don't hurt. The bad news is that I have new issues. My right hip and both quads are killing me! Well, I thought it was the hip until I had my assessment. Diagnosis is (drum roll) .... I have pulled my groin muscle. Wait a minute. Isn't it only hockey players who do that? Guess not. Sniff. Well, thank goodness it isn't my joint. Hips I think are a lot harder to fix. My quads are just sore/stiff. But all of this is a result of adjusting my gait to accommodate my shins. Now I need an adjustment. Hmm an adjustment? What's that? Sounds like an interesting term.

Educational segment: Spinal adjustment or spinal manipulation refers to the process in which the doctor of chiropractic skillfully applies controlled force into one or more "subluxated" vertebrae of the spine. I like the snap,crackle, pop. Holy CRAP! definition myself.

Here's the visual the Doctor asks me to lay on my side and move to the edge of the table. Remember my doctor is 6ft tall, thin, beautiful and could easily pass for a model on the street. But even though I am still in awe of what pain her thumb can inflict I had no idea what was coming next. She asks me to hold my elbows. Ok, nice warm hug. So far so good. Then she scoops my back, grabs my knees and then the wait for it... the loudest snap, and pop I have ever heard come out of my body before. She then follows by doing the same thing on the other side because you know I need to be symmetrical. OH CRAP! I stand up and I feel 4 inches taller. My hip doesn't hurt as much and I look I can rotate my neck. I never knew I could move my neck that far around before. HUH!

This weeks lessons... keep chiro appointments regular. Arrive on time to clinic night so that I am not running alone in the dark (or deal with the wrath!) and STRETCH! before after and always before latte or I wont get back up.

Have a great week everyone.
Hills and 23k this Sunday!


Interesting Fact: Did your mother ever warn you that "cracking" your knuckles would give you arthritis? If she did, we're sorry to say that she was wrong! Research has actually shown that individuals who habitually "crack" their knuckles over their lifetime actually lower the incidence of arthritis in their knuckles compared with those who do not. Researchers believe the knuckle "cracking" increases joint nutrition and maintains joint motion, both of which are essential for a healthy joint.

OUCH!

Last nights 8K was rough. I was the last to come in/hobble in and after my run I went and did a bit of retail therapy. Sniff Sniff.

It's official, my hip flexor and quad have decided that enough is enough. I will be making yet another excruciating ART appointment with the "Princess of Pain". Need to get this cleared up less than 3 months to go.

Battle of wills

Last night was a struggle. Wednesday nights I am scheduled to run 10k with the Running Room group except I arrived late and the group had already left without me. Now, I had a decision to make, I could either go home or run the route by myself. I know what a lot of you are thinking, "GO HOME you silly girl". Well, to be honest, I was thinking the same thing. It was dark, cold, snowing and I my legs hurt! But - I have this goal and now thanks to my big mouth everyone else knows about this goal. So, I can't slack off now so off I went.

The first 2km were really tough. I was having quite a mental talk with myself.

"You know you could turn around now and run back to the store and no one would know. You could just go home... watch Cougar Town and that LOST episode you PVR'd. What if you just waited at the nice warm Starbucks for the after run chat with Ara? You know it's an accomplishment just to be doing this. You could walk have the route?"

Trust me, I spent a lot of time talking to that chubby girl sitting on my shoulder. Who by the way was in her pajamas, on the sofa and eating chocolate while she gave me these great ideas.

Well, I am proud to say that I pushed through it. I ran the full route, in the snow, in the dark and even with some hip discomfort. I ran the 10k straight, which means no 10and 1's. (Run for 10 mins, walk for 1.) Although, I did stop for two street lights. I also realized that you run a lot faster when you are scared. (Single women running in all black through the burbs in the dark) And guess what, I ran one of my best times and I also worked off some of the weeks stress and frustration. (Motion Therapy remember) So take that couch girl!

This Sunday is 19K and then next week Hill Training starts.
That's all for now. Gotta run!
Meg

It's all good - wrapped with a whole lotta crazy

Status update: 89 days left, week 6 and today we finished our last 16K. Now we are moving on up to 19kms for the next two Sunday long runs. Yikes.
(No more wine Saturday night for sure)

Today's run started off nice and mild, we ran on some pretty trails and saw a bit of everything; wind, snow, ice, and then a whole lot more wind. My dear friend Ara says "Remember, wind gives you energy"... needless to say today, I had a lot of ENERGY! The pain in my shins have eased up but now the discomfort has moved into my right hip. The funny thing is, I wasn't that concerned about the hip pain but just thrilled that my shins weren't hurting. It is a sickness isn't it?

Actually, I saw this great article today and thought it tied in nicely with my running buddy Anne's comment today. Anne is great. She is an American women/mom, with two kids. Her whole family runs triathlons including her 5 and 7 year old girls. She has a fabulous attitude and really helps modivate me on my runs. She runs a great pace, (even if it is always in miles even if it messes me up every time)Ann also calls me out whenever I start slipping/slowing down. She has this horrible feature on her Garmin that beeps when she is running below her set pace time. This nasty angry beep that secretly says "Pick it up, you slacker!" So, today during the last 5K Anne kept repeating "It's all good... It's all good" At which time I responded "Yeah its all good but wrapped with a whole lot of crazy" She laughs. Aren't we all. Thank goodness we are running. (See article below about motion therapy)

Dr. Gontang Ph.D., a psychotherapist, marathoner wrote in the Runners World last month. Some people work through issues lying down, feet propped up on a leather couch. Austin "Ozzie" Gontang, Ph.D., however, finds problem-solving most effective when he and his clients are in running shoes. You don't need to be clinically depressed or severely troubled to benefit from "motion therapy." In fact, Gontang says many people run out their problems, perhaps unknowingly, on a regular basis. "Your therapy might come from your running group, your running buddy, the Sunday morning bunch," he says. "When you run sometimes hundreds or thousands of miles together, you trust each other, bare your souls to each other, and help each other heal." Numerous studies have shown that exercise stimulates the neurotransmitters serotonin, dopamine, epinephrine, and beta-endorphin, all of which elevate mood and reduce depression and anxiety. Running is like CRACK! We need those endorphins!

Now I can say I am a runner and I am in therapy. Ha Ha Ha.
Well, that's all for today. I am off to spend sometime at the Arena to watch my future Olympian play hockey. Enjoy the long weekend and the Olympic footage.
Go Canada!
Meg

New route link

For some reason the link doesn't work.
You can copy and paste the link to see the PDF http://miranet.ca/docs/Mississauga_Marathon_2010_full_half_fullsheet.pdf

The route has changed ... but still 42.2 kms

A big thanks to Mike for sharing the new Mississauga route. The distance hasn't changed it's still 42.2 Kms but the finish line has moved and the route doesn't go out to Oakville anymore. I know you are dying to check it out so I have attached the PDF below.

Also, to those reading this that know the area and/or have done this race before, I would love some assistance on where family should be planted throughout the route. The plan is to someone at least every 10K. And any chance someone wants to run a leg of it with me?

Brr.... Feels like -18°C outside

I'ts Sunday morning. -10°C outside, N 20km/h winds and it feels like -18°C.

I am going out for my first 16K long run. Wish me luck! Think I shoudl put on another layer. Thank godness I bought a new hat and still very grateful for my new Nike gloves Mara & Dave.

Meg

Need to be more diligent

I will begin with my apologies. I really do need to be more diligent with this whole blogging thing. But, keep in mind this process is still quite new to me.

99 days till race day. I am on week 5 of 18 and although my mind is still fully committed to this goal, my legs however are planning a revolt. A few runs ago my shins, which have been sore in the past decided to act up again. Which leads me to believe it is time to assemble "THE DREAM TEAM". Isn't that what Oprah and Lance had? A Registered Massage Therapist, Athletic Therapist? Hey, I am committed to doing whatever it takes to get me to the finish line.

So, I had my first massage and acupuncture appointment this week and it has been a very long time. Not to my surprise my RMT replied ... "Wow. Things are very tight." No kiddin! "And, you know that the acupuncture will redirect the pain, but you are not solving the structural problem." Hmm... Don't think I can do it without my shins so time to make an appointment with a further specialist. Dr. Stephanie an (AT)who is also known lovingly by her patients as "Princess Pain". Trust me after today. She deserves that title. Dr. Stephanie is a wonderful doctor but she performed two very interesting techniques on me today. 1. Called ART. Active Release Therapy and 2. Interferential Current Therapy.

Definition: The ART provider uses his or her hands to evaluate the texture, tightness and movement of muscles, fascia, tendons, ligaments and nerves. Abnormal tissues are treated by combining precisely directed tension with very specific patient movements.Short form: = DEADLY THUMBS and PAIN!!

Interferential Current Therapy: Tiny electrical impulses are induced into the tissues in the area of the pain. Where these waves intersect below the surface of the skin, the low-frequency stimulation induces the body to secrete endorphins, which are the body's natural pain-killers. Short form = Jumper cables on my lower legs, hooked up to a battery and involuntary foot/toe movement. Serious pins and needless + Freaky!


So the Dream Team has been assembled. I am still hanging in there.

Till next time, gotta run.
Meg

Just when I thought I was the crazy one...

I meet someone who takes crazy to a whole new level. Introducing the IRON MAN!

Let me begin with the setting.
One of the things that not everyone knows is that Sunday is the fifth run of the week and is also fondly known as the "LONG RUN". Almost every Sunday, the running distances increase in small intervals, gently building up to a 32Km run. Now I am not quite sure how or who started it but, Sunday's LONG RUN is also followed with Large LATTE correction that would be Grande Latte! That's right. Yes. Calories after running but very well deserved. The plan is ... run, stretch and drive to the Starbucks. Starbucks were we get to chat, bond, talk about the weather or whatever topic may be of interested and today it was the IRON MAN.

Special Note: Use caution choosing your Starbucks beverage. A beverage can run anywhere from 90 - 720 cal and can hardly makes the run worth doing. (Ex. Venti Peppermint White Hot Chocolate has 720 cal and 27 gr of fat) Me personally, I am quite a fan now of the Skinny Dolche Cinnamon Latte, no foam, no whip = 90 cal. But, for those out there who are curious and I know that you are. Here you go... www.starbucks.com/retail/nutrition_beverages.asp

Ok, so enough of that. Today we finish our 13K and a man who is new to the group and also a man I have never spoken to because I wouldn't even be close to keeping up with on a run. I believe his name is John. So John sits down in a running jacket that says National Kids Cancer Ride. Hmm? Someone says "So, what is the National kids cancer ride.?" Well... here it goes. It's only the biggest, most ambitious kids charity event ever! Which includes biking 15 day straight, traveling 7,000kms on a trans Canada odyssey from Vancouver to HALIFAX! Can you imagine!! www.searsnationalkidscancerride.com taking place Sept 9-23rd, in case you are interested. It gets better - and then he says it only took two months to train because he is an IronMan. Do you know what constitutes an IRONMAN (other than the cute lil' tattoo and it really is cute) 3.8k swim, 180k bike ride and then a full marathon - 42k ALL IN ONE DAY!!!

So, the point of this blog is to say - I have survived yet another week. We are now up to 13Kms and THANK GOD AT LEAST I AM NOT DOING AN IRON MAN or a 15 day bike ride!

Gotta run!
Megan

Training has begun...

By now, most of you know that I am training for my "FIRST" full Marathon. My training has officially begun and tonight I paid my entrance fee for the Mississauga Canon Marathon. Too late to back out now! (I believe that's called commitment through registration.)

I am completing my training through the Running Room and I have just finished/survived my first two weeks of the clinic. This also means I have 16 more weeks to go before the big day. (May 16th - Mother's Day & Lori Stafford's Birthday = 115 days and counting)

So lastnight, I was lying in bed thinking... and no it wasn't "Can I really do this?", it was "Will I ever do this again?" And, to be honest the verdict is still out on that one. But, what I did come to realize was, even if I do, there will never be another "First Marathon" for me. So why not capture this experience in some shape or form. Hence - THE BLOG!

Now I can't guarantee that this blog will be exciting and I don't even know who will want to read it. But I am doing this for me as a way to reflect back and for others to join me along on this journey. I will do my best to stay up to date, I may even attach some routes, tell some stories, add some pictures ... so that you too can meet "THE OTHERS" who are riding the crazy train with me. You may see some stats and hopefully you will see that I am improving or at least doing the distance. But in the end I hope that you will see a final photo of me at the 42km marker at the finish line hugging my family, smiling and upright! (If not, please locate my body and drag it across finish line)

So, this ends my first post. Till next time.
Gotta run!
Meg