I Did It!

Very happy to see my boyfriend cheering me on at 12 km

At this time last week I wasn't so sure that I would be writing my post half marathon blog. Fortunately though I managed to almost fully  recover from my cold in time for the big run on Sunday.  I woke up that day feeling excited but nervous. Actually, I'm pretty sure I was shaking.

Weather wise it was a gorgeous day for a run and the course starting at U.B.C., and ending up at Stanley Park, was beautiful. I highly recommend this half marathon to anyone who is thinking of doing one.

The first 5 km or so were in the sun and I was hot and not quite feeling like my energy levels were back to normal after my cold.  However, once we got in to the shade a bit, and a few clouds rolled in, I started to feel okay. 

The physio exercises and IMS I have been doing must have really helped because my hip was not a problem at all.  Unfortunately though a little twist of my ankle, while walking a few weeks ago, came back to haunt me and my ankle was quite sore throughout the run.  I had to stop a few times to stretch so it wouldn't completely tighten up.

From 12 to 16 km I felt alright.  When I started tiring around 16.5 km I decided to tell myself that I had just started running and that I was heading out for a short 5 km jog. Anything to get me to the finish line!  The volunteers and supporters cheering on the streets of Kitsilano were a huge boost to my spirits at that time.  So to all of you who came out to cheer your friends, family members, and complete strangers, a big "thank you."

The tough part of the run came around 17 km, when I incorrectly thought that we were running straight down Cornwall and on to the Burrard Bridge.  When I realized the course took us winding through the Kits Point neighbourhood instead, and I wasn't as close to the finish as I thought I was, it was a bit of a mental blow.  I also started to feel kind of cold and "out of body like." I think my week of being sick was catching up with me and I may have overdosed on Gu and Gel Blasts. :)  But..... I pushed on, ran up and over the Burrard Bridge, and made my way to the finish line with the help of the  Beastie Boys, "Sabotage" blasting in my ears.:)  Crossing the finish line was amazing and having friends and family there made it that much better.  My time was 2:19 and I'm happy with that for a first time effort.

2014 Fragile X Team

I wanted to say congratulations to everyone on the Fragile X Team for running and for such an amazing fundraising effort.  I am so happy that we surpassed our fundraising goal of $20,000!!  Thanks again to everyone who supported me and donated to the Fragile X Research Foundation.

This experience of training for, and running, the Scotiabank half marathon has been a big challenge but I feel mentally and physically great for having done it. After five days of rest and some much needed yoga (stairs were a problem for a few days) I find myself wanting to get out there and run again. Maybe just a short one though.   I do need to keep my training going so that I'm ready for my second half marathon in the fall. 

Mission Accomplished! :)

Wow! What an awesome race, with beautiful weather, fabulous volunteers and awesome post-race refreshments and entertainment!  Thank you Scotiabank, Asics and Canadian Running Series for putting on such a world class event. This was my first time running a half marathon in downtown Vancouver and now I definitely see why people travel from all over to run this spectacular route! Enjoying the beautiful scenery, being cheered on by the wonderful volunteers and cheering squads definitely helped to keep me going!!



SAS Team. Photograph by Own The Moment Photography

This was my second time tackling a half marathon and I am not going to lie, this time around felt much more physically and mentally challenging than my first race. Yet it has proven to be an excellent learning experience for me as I continue to strive to make running a lifestyle!

Unfortunately I did not beat my PB this time around, however I am happy with my chip time of 2:11:57 and I really enjoyed focusing on the experience of the race rather than my time. I have learned so much from my training this year and am excited to apply it to my next race. I learned that nutrition is key and this is something that I need further education on. I did not adequately fuel my body this time around (even though I thought I did) and I paid for it!!!  I also struggled with an injury during training which taught me the importance of rest, stretching, and healing. Lastly I am (still) learning to pace myself in the beginning of the race. I AGAIN started off a little too quickly (not as much as the Modo 8km Race, but still too fast), which resulted in me walking quite a bit more than I had planned on. You learn through your mistakes…. And I look forward to incorporating these changes as I strive towards my running goals.

I want to take this opportunity to say a BIG thank you to all of the event sponsors, specifically Scotiabank and Asics for putting on a fantastic event and providing us with amazing Asics gear. I also want to thank all the people who voted for me to have the awesome experience of being a “Joe Runner”; to everyone who sponsored Servants Anonymous Society and helped raise valuable funds to assist vulnerable women and youth in our community; to all the supporting sponsors that were fuelling us after the race; the musical talents along the course; and last but not least all of the volunteers and cheering squads on the side lines. You are such an integral part of making a race successful, motivating runners, and keeping the spirit alive during the race. Thank you all so much, your smiles and words of encouragement made all the difference!!!

I have thoroughly enjoyed being able to share my personal running journey, meet wonderful people, run in a world-class event and raise money for an amazing cause! I wish you all the best in your personal running journeys and hope to see you at the next race!

Happy Running :)

Final Stretch!

T-minus 5 days. How are you feeling? I am experiencing a mixture of emotions. Some days I think I am not ready, while other days I feel like nothing could stop me (those days rock).  My tapering has been going well and I have had some nice, continuous runs where I did not need to stop and walk, however my min/km is quite a bit slower than it was last year. I would love to beat my PB on Sunday, yet I am being realistic that I may not and I am slowly accepting this. I am working on focusing on the experience of the race and staying injury free so I can continue running after the race….which has really been challenging due to my competitive streak.   

 

 

As the finish line is in sight, I am happy to have that little extra inspiration from people in my life to keep pushing me through those days when self-doubt creeps in. Like my boss who just completed the Ride to Conquer Cancer – riding her bike over 200 kms in 2 days!!! That is amazing….my tush hurts just thinking about it!! My Mom and Dad, both 60 years old, annihilating their first 10 km race finishing just over the 53 minute mark! And my sister Aly, whose passion for fitness is contagious and inspires me daily to lead a healthier, active lifestyle.  

 Also, the women at Servants Anonymous Surrey, who day in and day out continue to grow, heal and overcome the oppression and exploitation they have endured, inspire me to keep going. Getting to know some of these amazing women and training with them over the last few weeks has been wonderful and I am so excited for them to run their first race this weekend!  

 Witnessing others struggle, persevere and conquer their goals, is amazing motivation and inspiration. If they can do it…I can do it and if I can do it…you can do it!  See you Race Day :)

Happy Running!

 

6 Days, 1 Bad Cold

It is six days to the Scotiabank Half Marathon and unfortunately I am facing another obstacle. My training, and managing my injuries, was going really well.  However, this past Friday I came down with a bad cold that still has me spending most of my days lying on the couch.  I was supposed to do my last long run of 15 km on Saturday but wasn't able to.  I haven't run since last Thursday, which has me freaking out a bit.  So much for tapering off my running.  Instead I have come to an abrupt halt :)  Mostly, I'm just worried that I won't be better by Sunday.  I've worked pretty hard and have put in many kilometers so I will be heart broken if I'm not healthy enough to run my best on Sunday. I guess there is no sense stressing too much as that isn't going to help me get better.  One day at a time. :)

My nephew Oliver at Crescent Beach

Thank you to everyone who has sponsored and supported me so far! For those of you who have not yet had a chance to donate, there is still plenty of time for you to go to my fundraising page and donate to the Fragile X Research Foundation.  Sick or not I will be out running on Sunday. :) Thanks!!

Taper Time!

I can’t believe we are less than 2 weeks away to the Scotiabank Half Marathon! Are you ready?

 

This past weekend I had a great training weekend. I hiked up Dog Mountain with a close friend of mine early Saturday morning and then completed my last long run of 19kms early Sunday morning. I felt fantastic! It was such a beautiful weekend and it was so nice to be able to get outside, de-stress and enjoy everything that BC has to offer!

 

Dog Mountain XT day :)

 

My long run went quite well with my hip only beginning to pain around the 16km point. All that stretching I have been doing is paying off! I am however feeling very physically tired this week – I think this is because I have not been as diligent in ensuring my body receives the proper nutrition to fuel my runs. This is something I am still learning about. I have read about nutrition and running, however sometimes I find it to be overwhelming as there are so many different pieces of advice out there and I do not know where to start.  If anyone has any resources surrounding nutrition and running please let me know as this is something I need to gain a better understanding of. 

 

Now that we are just over 10 days out its Taper Time. These are two of my favourite weeks of training because it means the finish line is drawing near and I am one step closer to completing my goal. Such an awesome feeling, I cannot wait to cross the finish line!

 

Happy Running! :)

Running with Dogs

Have you ever thought about jogging with your dog? It is an awesome way for you and your dog to get exercise, bond, and keep you feeling safe on those early morning runs! I love running with my dogs, Titan, a Siberian Husky/German Sheppard and Zeus, an American Stafford Mix.

At first I found it a little challenging, managing the leashes, poo stops and squirrel encounters, however over time it became easier, we got into a routine and we are able to run quite well together. If you have ever thought about Running with your dog here are some key “Do and Do Nots” that I have learned along the way:

DO keep them hydrated and watch for heat stroke. Run with the dogs early in the morning or later at night. If your dog becomes sluggish, is panting heavily, has glazed eyes and/or is foaming at the mouth, he needs to cool down. Educate yourself on the signs and symptoms and carry water!

DO know your dog’s limits. I know that I can run Titan (the husky mix) on 15-20 kms runs, however I know Zeus (the American Stafford sausage roll) will max out at 7kms. Research your dog’s breed to see if they are good breeds for jogging.  

DO invest in a good handsfree leash. Honestly AMANZING! you have so much more control over the dogs, and your hands are free to carry a water bottle. Check out irondoggy.com for a great leash.

DO NOT bring on bad karma. Scoop the Poop. Be prepared, bring poo bags, and take a minute to pick it up. This is definitely one of the annoying parts of running with your dogs, but it is what it is. Don’t ruin your neighbours shoes and morning....

DO NOT feed your dog crazy amounts of food/treats the night before – have you ever tried to pick up diarrhea and have to run with it to the next garbage can – GROSS! I learned that one the hard way.

DO NOT let your dog rule the run. There are other places that you can bring your dog for them to release additional energy. This is your run that you are bringing the dogs on. To be successful running with your dog you have to be the leader and ensure that the dog follows your lead. 

These are a few things that I have learned along the way.  I hope if you consider running with your dog these tips may help!

 

Happy Running!  

Nineteen!

Pre 19km run in my Asics gear:)

Running has been going really well the last couple of weeks. I have had some big successes in terms of getting in the distances I need to in order to feel more confident about doing 21 km on race day.   I have been able to get out with the Forerunners group the last two weekends, which has been really good for my training. I've had the pleasure to run with some super nice, supportive people.

I have to say I was very nervous going out with them for the first time as they were doing 17 km that day and the longest I had done was a 15 km run/walk.  We pretty much ran the whole distance aside from a water stop around the 10km mark.  While I was exhausted after and had a bit of an upset stomach (this seems to be a problem for me on long runs), my body actually felt pretty good.

Some of the Forerunners gang at the 10 km water station

After celebrating that success I spent the next 7 days worrying about the 19 km run that I did yesterday.  I found it hard to enjoy the first week of my vacation knowing I had that run on the horizon.  The run yesterday morning was hot and felt really long but I'm so happy I did it!  I have discovered that one of the breaking points for me on these longs runs is around 10 to 12 km.  I start really wanting to stop.  However, because I had people to run with,  and try to keep pace with,  I managed to push through without any breaks other than our one water station stop.  It was tough getting up the three flights of stairs to my apartment after but today I feel great.  Just three weeks to the big day!

Getting Anxious....

The past week I have been struggling with some feelings of anxiety. With the race in less than a month, I am feeling less prepared than I was last year at my first half marathon. Some of my more experienced running friends have shared that they found their second half marathon to almost be harder than their first as they knew what they were getting into.  

I must say I am feeling as though this may be happening to me.  I remember last year at my first half I was nervous and anxious, but it was a different ‘unknown/excited’ type of anxiousness. This year it is more of a ‘oh crap, I know what is coming and I feel as though I am not ready’ kind of anxiousness.

 

This year I have also struggled with injuries and sickness which I had not experienced last year. This has definitely impacted my training and how prepared I feel.  So I am trying not to panic and stick with my plan. I still hope to beat my time from last year (2:05:17), however I am trying to not get hung up on that, and just enjoy the experience while continuing to stay healthy!

Back in the Swing of Things

Where did May go? It seemed to sail by fast--with a few races at the start of the month, giving way to Victoria Day, and the unofficial start of summer the long weekend represents. Somewhere as the sun was popping out (for good?) in Vancouver, I came down with an awful stomach flu. I'll pass on the specifics, but to say, I didn't feel like eating, never mind running!

Still, my routine has gotten to a point that I expect--like it or not--to run 3-5 days a week. Not running for over a week? It felt unnatural and after a week lying about indoors, I pushed myself outside for a light jog. I never expected, even with a few races behind me, that running would become part of my day--not running made my time home sick so stark and reminded me how running has quickly become an important anchor throughout my days. And now that the weather is nice, increasingly, running outside is a chance to get away from the desk and clear my head--if only temporarily.

Running after a stomach flu calls to attention the need to hydrate, though. When you're as sick as I was, you're already really dehydrated to begin with--so I've been drinking more electrolyte drinks, more water, before, during, and after my runs. Hydration is important in the best of cases, so I've had to plan a bit more before my runs to make sure I've had enough to drink, and have water to take with me for longer distances. With less than 4 weeks until the Scotiabank Half Marathon, every kilometre and every litre makes a difference toward a healthy and happy race day.

Hot or Cold, Rain or Shine

The weather is one of those variables runners can't control. Training schedules can't always be put on hold for a blue sky day. I obviously love running on sunny days. However, one thing I have discovered lately with our changeable Spring weather is that my body seems to prefer running on cooler, and dare I say it, even rainy days.

A rainy Sunday run

Selfie attempt

While many Vancouver runners were out doing the half or full marathon a couple of Sundays ago, I was lying in bed trying to convince myself to get out and run in that pouring rain. After walking a lap around my bed I convinced myself that my "long run" couldn't wait for another day.  I made it out the door and was drenched within minutes but I ended up having one of my best 10 km runs to date.

The runs that I did on sunny evenings last week were quite the opposite of my successful rainy run.  Both runs were only about 5-6 km but they felt a lot longer and left me feeling drained.  I'm pretty sure the warm temperatures, in addition to seasonal allergies and the time of day that I ran, were all factors in those less than fantastic runs. 

t

Monday night running route

On my "long run" day this week it was sunny so I intentionally headed out early in the morning to try and avoid having to run in the heat. I also recently bought a hydration belt, which I was so thankful for that day!! Having water and Gatorade on hand definitely helped me reach my goal of 15 km!!  I never thought I would be one of those people sporting a water belt. :)

By trial and error I'm learning what works for me so that I can run successfully in all kinds of weather.   I think that if I continue to train in different conditions I'll be well prepared to run the half marathon and the weather, be it rain or shine, will hopefully not be a factor in my performance.

That being said.....for race day I'm visualizing slightly cloudy skies with the sun breaking through just as I'm on the homeward stretch to the finish line. :)

Small Consistent Changes = Long Term Sucess

I have had people ask me how I “got back on track” with my weight. I think this is a topic many people can relate to. I believe people are beautiful in all shapes and sizes, however when you get to the point where your health is at risk due to excessive weight, I believe it is your personal responsibility to make the necessary changes to better your health. 

Deciding to come clean to yourself about your bad habits is not easy. It actually sucks. Admitting that you somehow got off track and are not as healthy as you think you are is a hard thing to do. It takes courage, honesty, and vulnerability to do this. I still remember the day I admitted to myself that I had let myself go and was not living a healthy lifestyle. I was a bridesmaid in one of my best friend’s wedding. So naturally she tagged me in tons of photos from her big day. Looking at those photos were painful. I had been in denial about my weight gain, only posting photos where I looked smaller than I was, rarely looking in the mirror, and not admitting to myself that I had packed on more than a few pounds over the years. Not getting to filter these facebook pictures and really looking at them prompted me to take a step back and really re-assess my lifestyle.

So I turned on the lights, stripped to my undies, stood in front of a full length mirror, and really looked at myself. It was brutal. It was painful. It was emotional. It sucked. I felt like crap. I cried. But it was pivotal to the start of a new beginning for me. I admitted to myself that it was no one else’s fault but my own that I had gained 50 lbs; my decisions lead me to where I was, and in that moment I decided my future decisions would lead me where I wanted to go.

How did I take back my life?  I started walking. I felt embarrassed at first, but continued to remind myself that I was doing something to better myself and it does not matter what others think. So I kept walking. Eventually I progressed to “wogging” (walk/jogging). Then I’d fall off the exercise train for a few weeks and have to get back on track and start all over. So I’d try another technique by adding motivational quotes and affirmations to my routine and start again. Slowly my walking would once again progress to wogging which eventually turned into jogging.

Staying Motivated.

After I was in a fairly good routine, to stay motivated, I reserved some of my mindless internet browsing time to research running pages, motivational weight loss pages, and healthy eating tips. I educated myself on calories in versus calories out. You hear it all the time, that in order to lose one pound you need to create a deficit of 3500 calories from your diet. I started to really understand the consequences of bingeing on 7 cookies in one sitting. I was honest with myself about my eating habits by tracking them and I started attempting to be accountable to myself. Which again was tough on the ego.  Often we think we are being accountable to ourselves, but we actually are not and have a tendency to sugar coat it to make ourselves feel better. I know I would sooth my ego by not being completely honest with myself…. I only had 3 cookies, it’s not soo bad…. No, I actually had 4 cookies, 3 pieces of cheese, 2 pickles, 12 crackers,  half a chocolate bar and two glasses of wine (and yes I have eaten like this, please don’t judge me.) Being honest about it, and understanding the mass amount of calories I was consuming helped me put into perspective why my weight was not budging. Again this sucked.

before 2010 after 2014

Long story short, I slowly lost the 50 lbs and I reiterate I did it slowly. I refused to fall into the dieting propaganda and promised myself I was going to do it healthy, not through sickness or fad diets. And guess what, I did. It took time, but that time passes anyways and the slow transition helped me to maintain it. I still struggle some days, but I keep the bigger picture in mind. I know that small consistent changes are the key to success. I try not to beat myself up when I have a binge and I just get back on track the next day.  Signing up for a half marathon like Scotiabank Half Marathon helps to keep me accountable to my goals and progress.  I highly recommend taking up running if you are looking to maintain a healthier lifestyle!  J

Sunshine...some of the best medicine!



After work jog in New West



What a gorgeous week!! I love how the beautiful weather brings out happiness in people! Weather like this makes being a runner easy…all those cold, rainy runs are long forgotten, as sunshine warms our souls. :)

The past few weeks have been a struggle for me, dealing with a Tensor Fasciae Latae injury, however this past week I am feeling stronger and the pain has lessened quite a bit. I have been doing targeted stretching for my TFL and exercises to help strengthen my gluteus medius. My Mom, a retired Physiotherapist, explained to me this helps to unload the TFL. If you are having hip pain and think it may be your TFL this is a good article. 

This morning I was able to run 6km without too much pain; which is awesome considering 3 weeks ago I could not run at all and experienced a constant nagging pain in my hip. So needless to say, things are looking up and I am so happy and grateful to be running consistently again. I hope you are all enjoying this awesome weather!

Happy Running!  

Early Morning Jog in New West

Maxed Out on Miley

I know some folks are able to run with just the sounds of the birds chirping--not me. Finding the right beats to run to is part art, part science. You need a certain beats per minute for pacing, and in my case, it needs to be catchy, but not too catchy that I want to sing along. I can barely run without wheezing, I'm not about to add crooning to the mix. So, for the last few weeks my runs have been brought to you by Miley Cyrus--with Party in the U.S.A. providing the right tempo to keep me going.

Still, Miley can only take me so far, and with the Scotiabank Half Marathon quickly approaching, I'm off looking for new music to add to my running playlist. Any suggestions? What's on your playlist?

Two Months To Go!

60 days until the Scotiabank Half Marathon! Where has the time gone? It may be a bit gray and rainy out there, but soon enough, it will be summer--and with it, a race from UBC to Stanley Park to enjoy. I don't know about you, but I sure need to step up my training. I'm counting on crossing the finish line with a personal best. Two months is all that stands between me and my finisher's medal and I'm excited!

Gratitude.

As Easter weekend passes and spring is blossoming in the air, I am feeling grateful. For the past 3 weeks, I have been struggling with a hip injury and have had to learn to slow down in order for my body to heal. This has been frustrating, yet rewarding as the injury has given me the opportunity to reflect on how grateful I am for having a healthy, strong body. Having been raised to view all life experiences as learning opportunities; I believe this injury is teaching me to take better care of myself, mentally and physically, while being grateful for things I usually take for granted – like a healthy body, a healthy mind and the freedom to choose my future.     

In being more aware of all I have to be grateful for; I am reminded of why I am running the Scotiabank Half Marathon. I chose to run in support of Servants Anonymous Society. This is a small grass roots organization whose mission is to provide safe, secure homes, full time education, long term support, hope and wholeness to women and youth survivors of human trafficking and sexual exploitation. Since 2001, SAS has helped over 400 young women escape human trafficking and sexual exploitation in Metro Vancouver.   

This past week I was able to go to SAS and meet some of these women who are running their first 5km race at the Scotiabank Half Marathon. We are planning to meet every second week until the race to chat about our progress and go on training runs. I look forward to running with these women who have overcome so much and are fighting each day to live their lives on their accord. I will keep you posted in future posts on how our training goes.

If you are interested in donating to SAS and helping with their cause, please feel free to click the link below and assist me in raising valuable funds and awareness to combat this heinous crime against humanity. https://secure.e2rm.com/registrant/FundraisingPage.aspx?SID=4135474&LangPref=en-CA

Thank you.

Things Found While Running: Street Art in Denver

Today was a beautiful day for a run--and not just to send support back to all those running in Boston today--Denver was positively spectacular. The sun shined, the birds chirped, and I took a 10km loop around the Mile High City. And I couldn't help but pause to share some of the fantastic street art in town that made my run all the more fun, eclectic, and as much a cultural tour as it was miles logged toward my Scotiabank goals. 

Increasing Distance

I'm loving our spring weather for running!

Over the last couple of weeks I have managed to fit in a couple of "longer" runs.  I did my first long run with my friend, and new running buddy, Sabrina.  We did 12 km in total, running for 7 minutes and walking for 1 minute. Cardiovascular wise I felt great during the run, however, my legs are still giving me some trouble. Around 7 km my calf started to tighten up quite a bit and I had to stop a few times to stretch.  I stretched for about 20 minutes before the run so I'm not sure why that happened??  On a positive note the chronic aches, on my left side, were absent throughout the run and I felt really good the next day. I guess the physio and massage therapy are starting to work! My massage therapist has also recommended that I try Intramuscular Stimulation so I'm going to give that a go next.  (All this running has made me very grateful for excellent medical coverage). I have also discovered the foam roller, which is my new best friend :)

Photo stop at the 9 km mark

My running accomplishment last week was that I did 12.3 km by myself!! As I have mentioned before, it has always been a struggle for me to run more than 7 or 8 km on my own so I was really happy with that small success. I have to admit though, as I was wrapping up my run that day, I was having a really hard time imagining doing another 9 km. Yikes!

The Forerunners group I have been doing speed training with the last couple of weeks are running 15 km this Saturday. I'm thinking about joining them....... we'll see how the leg holds up on my shorter runs over the next few days :)

I have incorporated the Burrard Bridge in to my running route so it won't be so daunting at 19km on race day.

P.S. Congratulations to everyone who did Boston this morning!!  Today I'm thinking of my friend Paula who did the Boston Marathon last year (amazing!!!). My heart goes out to those who were unable to finish, who were injured, and to the loved ones of the three who lost their lives.  Peace :)

The Mentor, The Mentee and The Ripple Effect

Stunning Kits Beach

This past weekend I was able to take advantage of the beautiful weather and go for a scenic run around Kitsilano Beach with my mentor and good friend, Jessica Manca. I first met Jessica through the Women in Leadership Mentorship Program last year when we were matched as mentor and mentee.  We were a match made in heaven; Jessica a smart, funny, authentic, successful Coach and Author and me a fairly smart, sometimes funny, always authentic, dreamer in need of guidance and coaching.


It was really rewarding being able to run with Jessica. When we first met, Jessica told me she was not a runner and doubted she could even run around her block. However, as our friendship grew she would speak about running 750 meters straight, then 1 km straight, then 2 km straight. This past weekend Jessica beat one of her PB and ran 3kms straight!! Jessica has told me that I inspired her to start running. How awesome is that?! 

PB Achieved!

Continuing to run and committing to my goals is not only showing myself that I can do it, but also inadvertently showing my friends and family they can too! My 60 year old dad is training for his first 10km race with a goal of under 60 minutes, my cousin  signed up for her first half marathon and a neighbour in my complex told me that watching me live a healthier lifestyle encouraged him to lose 60lbs.  It excites and humbles me that people are encouraged to believe in themselves and know that if an average “Joe Runner” like me can do it, they sure can too! 

Happy Running!



Anima Sana In Corpore Sano - A sound mind in a sound body

What a gorgeous week! Spring makes me so happy! :)

Since my last post, I am feeling better about my training and getting out of the little “funk” I was in.  I am back on my training schedule, but incorporating more cross training and yoga due to a hip injury. I am also foam rolling and doing some myofascial release techniques to help ease the pain which I believe is coming from my Tensor Fascia Lata.  Oh the things you learn on Google! :)

This past week on a few of my runs I decided to ditch the GPS and stop obsessing over my pace and just run. It was Awesome! It was so enjoyable, and I found myself to be in a much better head space and enjoying my run. I had read some articles which spoke about running for feel and not focusing so much on your pace which I found very interesting so I decided to try it out. Best decision! I suggest everyone try this if they feel they are becoming too focused on their pace and losing sight of running for health and lifestyle. This is to not say that challenging yourself and your PB is not important, but rather a nice reminder of how rejuvenating running can be.    



Thank you Asics!

I am also breaking in my new Asics Gel Excel 33 which I LOVE. They are actually my first pair of Asics and now I know what all the hype is about!! Fun factoid…Did you know Asics is an acronym for the Latin phrase “Anima Sana In Corpore Sano” which means "A sound mind in a sound body".  Love it!

Happy Running!

My Motivation

One of Oliver's favourite places

I just wanted to write a short post today because it is my nephew, Oliver's, birthday.  As some of you know, Oliver is the reason  I started doing the Scotiabank 5 km run a few years back.  At that time I couldn't run more than 3 km without feeling out of breath and wiped out.  That year I was dealing with some pretty tough things personally and getting back out running again helped me to climb out of that dark place I was in. When my sister suggested participating in the 5 km run, and fund raising for the Fragile X Research Foundation, I was thankful to have something positive to focus on. Last year my Dad, sister, and I represented "Team Oliver" and did the run for the second time.  This year my goal for the Scotiabank run has changed to the half marathon but my motivation remains the same. I'm running for my  beautiful, joyful, 8 year old nephew Oliver.  Happy Birthday Ollie!

To donate to the Fragile X Research Foundation, please go to the Scotiabank Vancouver Half Marathon and 5km charity page or you can try link below, which should take you to my personal fundraising page......if it works :) Thanks everyone!

https://secure.e2rm.com/registrant/FundraisingPage.aspx?SID=(!SolicitationID)&LangPref=en-CA

P.S. This week my sister had a beautiful essay about Oliver, entitled "Bird bingo with Frosty and the angel," published in the Globe and Mail and on the Fragile X Canada website. If you are interested in reading it you can find it at the link below.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/facts-and-arguments/fragile-x-syndrome-has-delayed-my-sons-development-will-he-ever-have-a-friend-who-isnt-made-of-wood/article17833467/

Running in the Heat

This is not, I'll admit, a common Vancouver problem, but as I laboured through a run yesterday morning I was immediately regretting that latte I had thrown back just a few moments before. My hotel was nicely located in an outdoor shopping mall, and I wanted to take advantage of the location by logging some laps around a verdant outdoor space filled with inviting foot bridges, waterfalls, and enough visual distraction from the many storefronts. I left the lobby, conservatively slow--I used to live in the region and know how hot it can get--but even at a reasonably casual pace, the heat was scorching. Despite doing a lap, about 3.5k in total, around the outdoor shopping complex, I felt more spent and drained than I had after a cool 8k at the Modo Spring Run-Off two weeks earlier. Sure, I've been a little behind the ball with the running and training as work and travel kick in to high gear, but it was that unrelenting Florida sun that was taunting me. I scrambled to find shade as much as I could, but it was all for not. In 32-degree weather, shade is only a quick and all too short respite from an intense heat that really knocks your energy down fast.

Once I got back to the hotel, I took stock of the run--and my wheezing fit to catch my breath. Water. I had not had nearly enough of it. Why didn't I see anyone else running? They had considered what I failed to: that the Florida sunshine can be unforgiving and it is best to pull out the cardio in the early evening or mornings, before the sun has reached its full effect.

Excited as I am that Spring-like (emphasis on the 'like') weather has (mostly) come to Vancouver and I can lace up my ASICS and head out on leisurely jog around the seawall, my run yesterday was a reminder that this far South, the words 'polar vortex' have no meaning--and when the weather is this intense, you can't hydrate enough. In the meantime, I'll keep to the air conditioned hotel gym for the next few days of my Florida tour.

The Running Community

The first run with my new Asics! Love them :)

I must start off by asking you to please ignore any poor grammar, or rambling, in this blog as I've just finished my second day shift and my brain is a bit fried. :) 

My last run was this past Monday night with the Lady Sport 10 km training group. Unfortunately, work has prevented me from going regularly, so it's great when I can join them.  It makes me feel like  I'm a part of a running community and it is so much more fun than running alone!  This week was especially motivating because a couple of the group leaders got up and spoke to us about their marathon running accomplishments in New York, D.C. and San Francisco.  Very inspiring! The more I try to increase my running distances the more I appreciate what a huge feat marathon running is.

After going to the Kings of Leon concert Sunday night, and then for a massage the next morning, all I really wanted to do on Monday night was relax on a patio with a cold beer in hand. :) However, I forced myself out the door and ended up being super happy that I did. The gorgeous weather and getting to run with some new people made the effort worthwhile. I'm still having some aches in my lower leg and hip but I'm working on my physio exercises as much as I can and trying to space out my runs to give my body time to rest. Some days I get pretty frustrated that my body isn't co-operating with my goals but I will keep working at it.

Monday evening running route along the Kits Beach sea wall.

Last night I was supposed to go to my first half marathon training session at Forerunners, but, I had to miss it because of work (again!).  I'm looking forward to going to the clinic next week though, hopefully meeting some new people to run with, and learning more about how to train for a long run.

Now I must get some sleep...... I've heard it is really important to being a successful runner :).

Getting out of the funk....

I was going to post earlier this week, however I felt as though I did not have much to say. This past week, I was struggling with a constant fiery of mental battles between the negative and positive self-beliefs I hold; and unfortunately last week the negative self-beliefs won. After running at the MODO race and learning firsthand the lesson of not pacing appropriately, I was very sore and achy for about 4 days after. During this time, I got into a little bit of a running funk. I could feel myself spiraling into that annoying, unaccountable, pity party of self-doubt. You know the one… I can’t do it….It’s too hard…. I’m too slow…. What the heck was I thinking??
I hate those parties.

However after slowly accepting that I was at a lame pity-party that I no longer wanted to be the guest of honour at, I started googling articles about “getting out of a running funk” and reminding myself of the reasons why I run. After doing this and convincing myself to just lace up and go, I was able to slowly start coming out of it. I am not fully out of it yet, but I do feel like I am back on track…one run at a time right? Does anyone have any advice on how they get out of their running funks? Any words of wisdom would be greatly appreciated so I can file it for the next time I find myself at a party I really do not want to be at. J

Two of the reasons I run...to exercise my dogs and to be in nature :)
Giving my running partners freedom in White Rock



You Are Doing This

It couldn't have been a more gorgeous day for the Modo 8 km Spring Run-Off around the Stanley Park seawall.  Unfortunately, my sister was sick and wasn't able to run with me as planned but I was super grateful to have my nephews and brother- in- law there to cheer me on.

Despite a week of icing my shin, and a trip to the physiotherapist, I actually felt quite strong throughout the run and only started to feel a bit of an ache in my calf after about 5 km.  My goal was to complete the race without having to walk, which I was pretty much able to do. I did stop long enough to snap a couple of pictures though. :)

Around 2.5 km

Somewhere around 5 km

At the 7 km mark I slowed for a much needed drink, which I was so grateful for as I started up those  hills to the finish line.  They were small hills but at that point I felt like I was running up the Grouse Grind. :) During the last 800 meters I couldn't have been more appreciative of the cheers and high fives from the volunteers.

My time was 49:41 and my average pace was between 06:00-06:30 min/km. I'm gradually getting faster so I'm happy with my time.  After the run, when I was telling a friend about my finishing time,  he said, "the most important thing was that you had fun." I can honestly say that I did have a good time. I'm sure the weather, the great course, the volunteers, and Songza's "performance-enhancing pop" play list all had something to do with that. :)  For me to be able to say I'm enjoying running is huge coming from someone who in junior high school hid in a locker room to avoid doing a cross country run.:)

During the run yesterday when self doubt tried to creep in I told myself "you can do this." Then somewhere around 6 km my mantra changed to "you are doing this." That thought got me through the final 2 km and will hopefully be what's running through my head as I cross the finish line at 21.1 km.

Finished!! :)

Lesson Learned :)

Wow. That was a tough race for me. A beautiful, well organized, awesome race, but a personally challenging race. Yesterday I ran the 8km Modo Vancouver SpringRun Off and have learned first-hand why you should not start a race off too fast. When the announcer said we could line up anywhere in the starting line, I think I was a little over-ambitious in estimating my proper place amongst the pack. It was a beautiful day, the sun was shining, there was a positive vibrant energy at the race, I felt good and I was ready to go! Bring it on!


My ‘take on the world’ attitude was quickly deflated by the 6^th km as I wheezed for air and barely convinced myself not to keel over and lay down in the inviting lush greens of StanleyPark...I think I may have been a little un-realistic in my pacing.

I completed my first kilometer in 5:03, which was significantly faster than I have been training at – averaging between 6:20-6:50/km.  As I kept running, every kilometer my time dwindled. I watched person after person pass me by. Self-doubt started creeping into my mind. I could not understand why I was having such a hard time on an 8km race. In training I can run 10 km without stopping, however this just felt torturous.  

I was able to run 5 km without walking, but then I had to do brief walking intervals for the rest of the race. I tried to keep my breathing fluid by talking to myself “Okay Lora, just breathe in your nose, out your mouth; in your nose, out your mouth; in nose, out mouth…. OH MY GOSH LORA, JUST FREAKING BREATHE!!”  Instead of calm, steady, controlled breaths I began gasping and panting like my dog after an epic game of fetch in the sun.  It literally took all of my mental strength, and every positive self-affirmation to complete the race. It absolutely blew my mind how 8km seemed so much more difficult than running 21.1km last year.  

Yet despite the gasping, panting and feeling as though at any moment my legs were going to give out and I would have to quit the race, I persisted and I managed to come out with a time of 44:52. I am proud of my time; I pushed myself mentally and physically while learning a very valuable lesson surrounding realistic pacing! Luckily the beautiful weather, the beautiful scenery, and encouraging words from passerby’s kept me feeling hopeful while I wheezed through the last few kilometers of the race. This was a very good learning experience for me.  

I wanted to say a special thank you to all of the awesome volunteers who were so amazing, encouraging and positive. Also thank you to the woman who encouraged me to keep going when “I could almost taste the finish line”. Thank you. Even the smallest acts of kindness and encouraging words have lasting impacts.  

Facing my fears, one run at a time.

Fear. It is something we all experience as humans. It is what holds some back. It is what pushes others forward.  Every person has the choice to either face their fears and grow stronger or stay stagnate within their comfort zone. My biggest fear is not of failure, but of success. I am afraid to invest in myself, to love myself and to believe that I can achieve anything I work for. Last year I chose to be accountable to me.  I admitted to myself that I am my own worst enemy and I am the only person who can determine my destiny.  I was tired of being afraid, I was tired of making excuses, I was tired of being stagnant. So I chose to face my fears and be accountable to not only myself, but to my future self. I chose to start loving me. 

Before running my first half marathon last year, the only race I ever completed was at my 7th grade track-meet where I received the green ‘Participant’ ribbon for my near last place finish. So why did I start running again almost 2 decades later when I had never been a good runner? Part of it was because I read stories of other ‘non-runners’ who became ‘runners’, so I figured if all of those people could do it, why couldn’t I? Pair that with being brutally honest with myself by admitting and accepting that only my self-limiting beliefs and excuses were the reasons for my life heading down a negative path; and I was hooked. Running teaches me to be accountable to myself and reminds me that I am the only person responsible for how I choose to live my life.     

In September 2013 I ran my first half marathon. The high of finishing your first race is indescribable. The amount of pride I had for myself and the self-love I felt in that moment will forever stay with me. With a little preparation, determination, accountability, and persistence I was able to challenge my inner critic and prove to myself that I am able to accomplish my goals.  I hope through sharing my training journey – the good and the bad – it may encourage others to challenge their inner critics and start believing they too can achieve anything they put their mind to.

I am looking forward to running in the Modo Vancouver SpringRun Off tomorrow and hope to see you there! J