Running in the Rockies

Welcome to the blog, one step at a time. The hardest step is always the first one out the door. Stay with it, it will change you life. Never give up. Find yourself a motivating montra. Something you can always use to give yourself a pep talk. "Happy and true, all my PRs are coming"

B of BS Rools out.

Welcome to the blog! Way to get started and get out there!

Thanks, Brent and Michelle! It's amazing to be starting so slow and pathetic and already have a support team. It's so helpful to see that great runners have bad days. Not being a great runner myself, I've always assumed that marathoners felt great all the time. It's so encouraging to read everyone's daily ups and downs. Thanks again!

That's my wife! Isn't she great?

Running is contagious, as evidenced by the success of this blog, eh? Well, it's rubbing off on me. I'm an avid road biker, but just today I went out and got a new pair of running shoes...

Laura, I'm so excited for you! I'm right behind you kiddo...alright, I'm way behind you. ;-)

Laura - welcome to the blog. Marathoners do not feel great all the time,in fact, sometimes they feel not particularly great up to 80% of the time, then they taper, feel great on race day, recover, up the mileage, and back into "the zone".

Yea! What a woman. Please notice, everyone, that she has 2 kids less than a year apart (and less than 18 months old), and she is still finding time to do this. All my excuses just don't compare. Great job, you cutie!

Woohoo! One more recruit from Lybi's clan! Don't worry about how fast or slow you run or walk - there are all sorts on this blog - bikers, walkers, woggers, joggers, and runners. Then there's folks like Sasha, Paul and the others who are elite, winning races from the 5K up to the marathon. Both Lybi and I love this blog, and I especially love reading Lybi's blogs and comments.

Welcome Laura....If you are related to Lybi I'm sure I'll just love you too. She is the cutest kid (all grown up that is)..we keep dreaming of moving next door to each other. I got a kick out of your goal to run a half marathon without embarrassment....Running for a long time can bring out certain needs that can put you in compromising situations...like no portapotty nearby and other situations...but just as long as you keep your sense of humor you'll be fine.

Especially if you are a female running a 2:17 marathon in London. You get the honor of having your trip to the woods covered on BBC!

On BBC!!?!??! Oh, how mortifying! Luckily I'll never be impressive enough to be on BBC for my running ability - or my potty breaks!

Thanks for all the great advice on running and the training tips, Sasha! I'm going to learn a ton just gleaning from all you wonderful runners! I'm excited!

I don't know about the running after the night shift it's kinda crazy! But in a way I think that I think about the energy less and my body kinda takes over. I think it's my mind that sometimes limits my running telling me that I'm tired, hurt ect. if that makes sense. So sometimes my after work runs are some of my best! (Weird) Did you get your CNA after your daugter was born with CP? I was in nursing school when our second daughter was born with spina bifida. Funny how things happen I sure have been glad to have my medical back ground over the years raising her! And it makes me more motivated to run and exercise because I think a lot of times we take our bodies for granted. When there are so many people that are limited by there bodies and then those that are not and are not using them to the full potential, or abusing them by not using them at all, when they are more than capable. :) :)

There are two different types of energy - the muscle energy, and the neural energy. They do not always correlate, in fact, half the time they do not. The muscle energy gets drained from running, while the neural energy usually either does not change, or actually increases if you run easy. When you do not feel like running, it is usually the neural energy that is lacking, you should always go and give it a shot. See the Top Ten Training Mistakes (link above).

Hey, what a sweet comment, Michelle. You are right, we should all make the best use of everything we've been given. Laura, I'm so proud of you for getting out there. Remember, every little bit helps, so even if you don't have time or energy for a big ol' trip, just do as much as you can and call it good.

Woo-hooo! Hey, I just thought of something...you really ought to invest in bear repellent (pepper spray) or something. Lots of people on this blog encounter wildlife on their runs. Snack-sized people like you have to be extra careful. :)

That's so funny! On my very first walk (when I over-did it!), I was walking on the Santa Fe trail which is gorgeous, but I didn't have a dog or a walking partner, so every now and then (when no one was closeby) I tried clapping loudly so I wouldn't happen upon a mother bear and her cubs, etc. I kept laughing about how stupid I must look, though. And I remembered from Parent Trap the "mountain lion repellent" -- hitting two sticks together. Ha!

Awesome Laura! I think it's a GREAT idea to run a 5K so soon. That way, you can see progress as you continue to race. Also, lots of people do 5Ks and walk the whole time, so don't worry, you'll be in much better shape by then than lots of people. I'm so excited for you!!!

Congrats! My family is getting so into this running thing it is intimidating! It is hard to run when you are nursing a small baby. Good luck. Mom

Very good. Glad to see the Farnsworth family getting infected with the running bug.

Good for you, that will be fun and you'll really see some amazing progress! Not to mention the motivation to get out the door sky rocket!!!

As for my daughter, she is 14, just started high school, She has a variety of medical problems but walks with a little bit of a limp? (I'm not sure if thats the best way to describe, but altered gait.) The hard thing for her is that everything on the outside except for the gait is normal and so sometimes the world isn't too understanding. But she's a tough little nut and handles things really well, inspite of all the additional challenges she has!!!

Sorry about your hip! Heber and I both have had similar issues. I notice it most after a fast run--usually the morning after. Gluteus medius may be the culprit, at least for me. Heber gave me some exercises to work on. Don't tell him but I never did them. (Are you there, Heber?) Usually, I just try to run slower until it goes away. The importance of running slowly when you first start can not be overstated! Run slow! Running downhill is also harder on bones, joints, & ligagments than running uphill.

Geez, 30 min. on the elliptical is way more than 1 mile. At least 2, maybe even 2.5. Keep up the good work and don't overdo it! : ) Love ya, sis.

P.s. Today is Nathan's b-day!

Sorry to hear about the hip, I have a chronic hip pain that I'm 99% sure is bursitis. But I'd love to hear how or what the chiropractor has to day about yours. Where does it seem to bother you? I used to ice mine a lot, but it seems to be that heat helps more. Weird I know but what ever works is good for me.

Thanks for the sympathy, Libby and Michelle!! I didn't know you (Lybi) and Heber both had a hip problem. I don't think running slower will help the hip on its own because I wasn't even running for the first week and it was hurting. It doesn't hurt while I run/walk, but it hurts later on in the day. When I get up from sitting down or laying down, then I feel like I'm going to falll because it's so intense. But after a few steps, it relaxes. Weird, huh?

And I'm amazed that you run so well, Michelle, considering chronic hip pain!!!! That's dedication!

Welcome to the blog. I had a very similar hip problem a few weeks ago. I found out that walking fast on it was worse than a very slow jog. Maybe I was trying to walk with too long a stride. Still hurts occasionally but much less.

Good job, Laura. If you can do that darn elliptical thingy for at least 7 min. without stopping, that is probably the equivalent of running half a mile without stopping. YOU...ARE...AWESOME!

Hey! I want to be elongated too! So glad you got to the chiro. An inch off! Wow. Hope you feel better soon. Good job jogging today!

Glad you got some good shoes and went to the chiropractor. I suspect you will feel better tomorrow, but do not be surprised if you get out of alignment again quickly - your muscles are used to that position now and need to be trained to keep the proper position. Another thing that can make a big difference - do you always run on the same side of the road? Most roads, and even sidewalks, are cambered a bit to allow the water to run off into the sewer. If you run on one side of the road going out and the other coming back, it is sure to throw your alignment off. If you are running on the road or sidewalk, try running an out-and-back, staying on the same side of the road both ways (recommended by my chiropractor). You guys are also very close to that trail that goes under that bridge - that might be a good place to run as well. Easier on your legs than road or concrete . . . :)

Good advice, James! I never even thought of that. I have actually been running mostly on a trail by our house, but I'll try to remember to break up the side of the street that I'm on. What trail goes under a bridge? Do you mean the Santa Fe trail - which is about a mile and a half from our house? Did you run on that one when you were here?

Laura, thanks for your comments. It seems mentally, you are taking all the right steps to move forward for fitness and fun with running. Enjoy the running journey. I look forward to watching your progress. The most fun thing for me, with new runners, is to watch how they progress. No doubt, it would be untimatley cool if you and Lybi ran a marathon together some day. What pictures could be taken and what memories would be made. Stay cool

B of BS Rools out

That table sounds really cool, and I really like FREE!! Too bad that I live in smallville, no chance of finding that around here.... but sounds like things with the chiroparctor went well, actually do have one of those here, never been to one. Right now the hip is doing pretty good but if it doesn't decide to stay that way, might give that a try!!! Sounds like things are coming along good inspite of the inconviences that the body can produce. I read and usually try BS rools on the hills too, it's not always a lot but I do try to speed up. Sometimes it depends on the hill, if they are too long I speed up, slow down, speed up.....ect. I guess we just keep plugging along and trying!!!!

Wow, I wish I could say I've never been to a chiropractor. My dumb back gives me lots of trouble. The problem is, I don't think a chiropractor will ever give me long term help, but I don't know what else to do. I agree with you on the hills and the Rools! It depends on how long the incline. And sometimes, I might make it up a hill, but then I have to walk when I finally get there. I doubt that was the purpose of the rools. Ha! Thanks for your support and encouragement!!!!

Caring for your joints is important. Might want to run on grass or track for a while until they feel better. Great job!

You cutie! I'm so sorry about your hip! Gradual is totally the way to go. Slow progress is permanent progress.

October 20th, huh? That is the day of one of my big piano events. Otherwise I would like to go run it with you... Are you sure there isn't some spooky-themed run on the 27th you could do? Oh wait, that's Joey's birthday. Nuts. Oh well, that'll be one less thing to annoy you on your run (me). He he he.

Probably I'd just give in to the urge to start a water fight with you, anyway.

Hey Laura- thanks for your comment on my blog! Nice to meet ya! So you're Lybi's big sis and you just had a baby and are training for a 5K? Did I get that right? (How's that for a run on?) Sounds like a great plan! What yrs. were you at BYU? I was on campus '91-'94, but finished up at SLC campus.

A water fight, huh, Lybi? You forget this is Colorado - we might have SNOW in October!! But I'll take you as a running partner for any race!! That would be so fun - although I'm sure I would slow you down or cramp your running finesse.

Yes, Christi, you got it right!! I'm Lybi's older sister, but she has me by an inch and a quarter - which she will ALWAYS point out! ;oD When you're as short as we are, every inch counts. I was at BYU '93-96, so we overlapped a little!! What was your major? You're a great runner, by the way! I enjoy reading your blog. Did you run at BYU?

Oh Laura! You are so kind to even SUGGEST that I may have run for BYU! Heck no! I ran a tweeny bit in middle school & high school. But my real running life began after my 2nd child was born. A friend & I used to walk w/ our strollers and that got boring so we decided to jog a little- next thing you knew we were signing up for races- I've been addicted ever since! So how short are you gals? I probably have you beat- 5'1"! (I have 2 sisters both taller than me, I feel your pain) Oh, and my major was Psychology...

Hey, I'm 5'1" too! Laura's 5--as in 60 inches when she is standing up super straight. The best things come in little packages.

Yea Laura! I'm glad you are here too! Maybe with you blogging I won't get in so much trouble with Lybi when I don't blog :) Ha ha, just kidding.

Anyway, I know some back aligning exercises that would probably help you. Some of them are hard to explain so I wish I could show you. But a simple one is to lie on you back and pull one knee at a time up to your chest. Then lie flat on your back with your legs straight and stretch your arms up over your head. You could probably do a google search for back exercises and stretches and find a bunch more.

I hope it gets better!

Sweet- short girls rule! Lybi- it will be nice to see eye to eye w/ ya! Laura- hope the hip & knees are feeling better!

Yea, Kristina!!!!!! It's good to see you blogging again! Simeon's picture is super cute. My Mom was just here and every time she held Audrey she would tell me something that Simeon's doing nowadays. Very cute. She's so happy to be close to a grandchild!!!!

What did I tell you, Christi -- Lybi's very proud of that ONE inch!!! ;o)

Hallelujah for chiropractors! I'm so glad you're feeling better.

Glad to hear you were able to get in a comfortable mile- that makes all the difference!

That is kinda funny about the girl in your book club that has similarities to me! I'm glad to hear that your hip is feeling better I hope that it contiues to stay that way!

I'll call your 50 degrees for our 86 degrees, and raise you a couple hills . . .

even though you might not think so, 50 degrees is just about the ideal temperature to run in. Keep up the good work and stay patient - before you know it you will be able to put in a coupe miles a day and loving it . . .

Ya, I know. Sasha always writes that it takes 2 or 3 (or 8!) miles to really get going, and I am thinking "Hmm, if I ran another hour or so, would I suddendly be running 6 min. miles?" More likely I would suddenly find an ambulance trailing me expectantly. Just kidding.

Good going!!!! I am impressed that you are having the dedication and will to keep it up. You may motivate me.

Mom

Sounds like you need to add a little bit. Take walking breaks, but try to cover more distance if the time allows.

We homeschool. Kids are kids, so there is a lot of power struggle at times, but we can handle it. We are not doing special ed, so I am not sure how it works with homeschool, but I imagine you can do quite well.

If you have any kind of exercise equipment in the home (elliptical, stationary bike, etc), it would help adding some workouts on it as well to supplement your running, and build endurance/strength without an increased risk of injury.

Ha!! Boy was I surprised to see that comment from my DH..I was just going to say the same thing about school. Can you change teachers if the problem continues...we are unfortunately no help in the schooling department because as Sasha said we homeschool...Good job on doing more miles.

I'm going to take the 5th on 1st grade. Homeschooling sounds pretty nice sometimes. Good job on your workout!

Just wondering, what part of CO are you in?

For the hip, stretches are always good. Hip problems are often caused by muscle problems elsewhere, like quads, hams, or back. Have you had any tightness? Has your stride changed recently (i.e. compensating for an injury)?

We do love homeschooling but it's definitely not for everyone. If you are interested in it there are homeschooling websites with discussion boards that could give you more info. I'm sure there are even moms that homeschool special needs kids. It's hard to balance with housework. I think my house is a little bit less organized than I would like it( not bad at all just not perfect either.

Jon, we live in Colorado Springs - in the shadow of Pikes Peak (hence my reference to the Rockies in my blog name - although "running" is a bit of a stretch as I'm just starting out. I never even ran in High school. ha!)

Thanks for the tips on my hip. My low back (especially tailbone) went through a real number with my preganancy (baby is now 5 months), but I've always had low back pain. I'm trying to see the chiropractor on a somewhat regular basis as part of my training. I figure as I strengthen my muscles, I'll be more able to stay in alignment.

I definatley reccomend that you read the vampire series, they are soooo good! I'm surprised that Lybi hasn't had you read them already?

The massage was really great! You definatley need to have one, I know that new baby, special needs child and mother, wife in general can be a lot it would be a great recharge for you mentally and physically!!!

Hope that the hip starts to feel better, I hate to have someone "Feeling" my pain, but it's nice to have someone to swap ideas and possible solutions with. Check on the internet about stretching the piriformis muscle, that might help along with regular other stretching. also if you have had a lot of low back problems, you know the low back and abdominal go hand in hand (Yes, that means sit-ups and increased core srtength might help).

Hey Laura, great job! Two things: first, I'm not sure, but I think 194 is a really high heart rate. Might not want to push it so hard. The other thing is I am having similar problems with my hip. It never hurts when I run, but first thing in the morning and when I first get out of a chair (from blogging, usually :)) it hurts. For me the big difference is pace. If I run fast it gets worse. If I go longer but slower, it gets better. If it's the same as mine, don't sprint on it--no matter what kind of euphoric delirium it enduces! ;) Also, the last time I had hip pain, getting my lower back adjusted by the chiro fixed it. I'm going back tonight to get it done again.

194 is a reasonable max heart rate. You definitely do not want to train at it all the time, especially early on before you gain a serious level of fitness. This does show, though, that your training heart rate should be around 140 right now, but do not take it too religiously, only as a guideline.

Yes, there is something liberating about being able to sustain a fast pace, it brings a level of satisfaction no carnal pleasure can match.

For homeschooling we use a chicken soup of stuff. The basic idea is to teach core skills (reading, writing, typing, math), and then give the children the time to learn what they feel like using those skills. I do not think it is the curriculum itself that leads to success in homeschooling, rather it is the consistency, and the work ethic, and the values you are teaching.

I don't think I could train at a 194 heart rate if I wanted to - I think my vision blurred for a moment when I got to the top of that hill. But my husband said to push it just for a bit to figure out what my max and aerobic levels are. I was surprised while I was running. It seemed that I often stayed right around 170. Am I pushing it too much compared to the 140 you recommend? It didn't feel too bad around 170, but I could certainly feel it when I approached 180 and that's when I usually started walking.

What kind of activity would it take you to sustain your HR at 140, and how long can you do it for? What about 150? 160?

Laura, yikes, if you can't run for a while, hit the cardio hard on a bike, swim, something. Legs question, yes St.George is very tough on the quads with the steep downhill portions of the course. TOU was and up and down course with the downhill not that steep. Although St.George is a faster course, TOU is much easier on the legs. I am no doctor, but, it seems get the alignment problem taken care of, you down want to wear down you hip joint at your young age. I am a worry wart, take your vitamins, calcium, also, glucosmime, MSM, choration. JointFlex vitiamins, they are expensive, but the really work. I guess I can't help but give fatherly advice as you and Lybi are about the same age as my two daughters. Take care, get healthy.

Omigoodness! Careful there sis. Whoa, that makes me want to take all that stuff Brent just recommended too.

I like the handicap on Mike of pulling the girls. You may have to find a way to exercise that does not wear out your hip. Life is pretty long. Sounds like you are having fun though. I vote the 4 of you go every day. The girls will love it and it is good for both of you and great scenery.

Good job finding alternate entertaining exercise and giving the hip a break. Maybe alternating is the key!

Great work, stay with it.

That is so amazing. Riding a bike up a hill would kill me pretty quickly. You and Lybi are so amazing that I'm starting to feel like a bum :)

Have you asked you doctor about stretches and stuff that can help align you back and pelvis? I've had a few doctors recommend stretches that have helped a lot. It might not help in your case but it might be worth asking :)

Thanks, everyone!!

Mom, I don't think I'll be able to do it everyday - my hind end can't handle that yet, plus the girls weren't too keen on it. ;oS

Kristina, how can you possibly think you're a bum!?!? You're out there running too!!

Your right.. I love the amazing things that I learn on the blog too! I usually don't have either for breakfast, but it sounds like a good combination, might have to give it a try!!

I'll be interested to hear about your second opinion, do you have an apt. sheduled? what are you going to see an orthopedist? Good luck!

No, I don't have anything scheduled yet. My daughter was really sick all day and I wasn't able to think of much; but I was thinking of an orthopedist or even a physical therapist or physiatrist. I wasn't sure. I was going to check around. Thanks for your encouragement!!

Hey, I didn't know one of your girls is sick! :( May it be fleeting, and may it make them prone to sleeping a lot.

Good job on the running and the fine eating. I have to admit that I ate chips and salsa for lunch yesterday. Carb-loading?

Yah, poor Cami has thrown up 4 times and had diarhea (sp?) 4 times. Yuck. I HATE cleaning up throw-up!!!!!!!!

Poor Cami. Poor Mommy. I hope you all get well soon. Miraculously my elliptical exerciser started working again this morning. I had decided to use it even though it was stuck on 8. So I went out there and the computer controller worked. So I am off and running (in a stationary way) again. Did 5 minutes because it has been about 4 months or more so I am starting slowly. I think I'll add a minute each day. My heart rate stays at 130 most of the time.

Yea for breakfast! I eat so much better when I eat breakfast with your parents. Normally I'm to sleeping and lazy to eat a good breakfast but eating cracked grain and eggs with your parents makes such a big difference.

I'm glad you are getting a second opinion. Hopefully you can find a doctor that can give you some useful advice for correcting any misalignment you may have. I'm glad you were able to walk without your hip hurting.

By the way, the doctor that helped me the most was a D.O. doctor. Also my dad got hit by a car and has a lot of back trouble because his back got thrown out of alignment and stayed that way for 10 or so years. This same D.O. doctor did wonders for my dad and gave him some great exercises.

I hope you a speedy recovery and hope you don't get feeling to terrible! That's so unfair, sick kids and then getting it yourself! Hope you get to that nap today too! That always makes things look better!

Ditto, Laura! Great job. Get some good rest tonight and take it easy tomorrow!

Overly emotional? What is that...wait a minute, I just missed my favorite show...WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAaaaaaaaahh!

You won't come in last, so banish that thought. I don't think people ever really do come in last in 5Ks. Somehow people consistently materialize on the course until, like, the next day or something. It's a real phenomenon. On the track it is different. I've come in last on the track before. But I still finished hard, and actually, I got a standing ovation, so it can't be that bad, can it? You can't come in laster than I did--almost 2 laps all by myself, yet most of those ladies I ran against are on the couch right now eating potato chips, so there you go. I win.

I forgot to add my (he he he) to the end of that.

I grew up mainly in the Denver area, though I moved to Utah after college. But I'm certainly still a Broncos fan!

Be careful with that cough. I had a nagging cough for two weeks and then found out it had turned into pneumonia. No good.

Remember to break up your run into run/walk segments. Some people stop running for the day the first time they feel they have to stop. Instead just walk for a minute or two and then start running again. That will help you go farther.

I'm sorry you are sick. That is no fun. I like what Heber said. If you start feeling to tired to keep running, it is great to continue walking rather than stop all together.

Anyway, it is true that last place tends to get more cheers than first place (and I have A LOT of experience with last place). I wouldn't worry about coming in last. It's really not so bad. The important thing is to beat your own goals and times rather than worry about beating other people (though other people can help push you to beat your own times).

Take it easy. I hope you feel better. You've got your mom on the way :)

You are lucky. My chiropractor is just like that and he has helped me so much. In fact just yesterday I went about MY hip troubles and now I'm feeling great. Did he do ART on your hip? That's what mine did: on my lower stomach right near the hip bone, the inside of my thigh, and my piriformis muscle in back. It changed my walking/running dynamics right away.

Tell me about the cough. I was coughing up phlegm for two weeks before I went to a Dr. By then it had become pneumonia. Are these productive coughs or just throat coughs?

There's nothing wrong with taking it easy! I think it is great that you are exercising. It's really hard to exercise when you have pain. I'm a big baby so I admire you for trying so much.

Whenever I get a cold or a cough I tend to cough for a long time, even after I don't feel sick any more. Sometimes in the winter I just end up with a perma-cough. But if it's phlegmy I agree that you should probably see a doctor.

Not all the coughs are productive, but yes, I'm getting lovely phlegm. I keep wonndering if I DO need to see a doctor - you've got me worried! ;o) I haven't been to a doctor for a sickness in years!!

He adjusted my hip on the outside hip (where the femur attaches), on the top of the leg (where it bends) and . . . I can't remember exactly the other spot. hmm.

The chiro thing sounds interesting. I wonder if I should give that a try, I guess I could call and see if they do that before I scheduled. I have kindof put up with this for so long that I'm begiining to think it's just a part of running for me. But I'm thrilled to hear you are having some sucess!! Tackle that cold and you literally are going to be off and running!!!

Oh yea, I just read your post, I am going to go down and watch. I want to go and meet everyone at the party, and Superfly is my nephew so I wanted to go see him come in, in addition to everyone else on the blog. It's about 2-2.5 hours drive, but I live a in a little towm and we have to drive that far to do any shopping other than walmart. (but Home Depot opens this week, we really are moving up in the world!) But something came up last night that is giving me stress and I'm not sure if I'll have to change my palns ugggh! but for now, yesterday that was the plan! (did you get all that, sorry for rambling!)

Yea for chiros! I have gone twice for my hip and have felt MUCH better each time. Then I take a nap on the couch and screw it back up...gotta work on that. Michelle, I hope you can come! Superfly is your nephew? Cute!

You are the best big sister ever! Good job. Love you!

--Lybi

Hey Laura- good job getting in a couple miles Sat! Thanks for your comment on my blog!!! It was a blast meeting Lybi & James this weekend. So what's your goal now? Signing up for a 5K? You can do it!!!!

Congradulations, mind over matter, running is very interesting from the mentai side, once you have over come a barrier, things really start to click. I happy for you, keep up the good work. By the way, what is up with the hip problem? Getting better? I had much trouble running over 30 minutes without stopping, you have made it 40, great. By the way, its not spring yet, it seems you can re-adjust your goals to a new goal.

B of BS Rools out, stay cool

Wow! I had no idea you were that far along to run a 5K. Good job. You guys are so intimidating with how quickly you can get into shape.

Good job Laura! Wow--are you saying you never had to stop and walk? That is so awesome! And hiring a babysitter--THAT is dedication. :)

Thank you, Brent, Mom and Lybi. I actually DID have to walk throughout the "run", Lib. I'm not as amazing as you ... yet! ;o) I just ran the pace that felt comfortable and then walked when I needed to. My pace when I ran was usually in the 10:50 range - give or take.

Good Job today, you are building those miles steady and sure!

Good job Laura, and YIKES. The "hills" in your neighborhood mean business! I still remember if from this summer. You would be amazed how much easier it is at lower elevations and on a flat course.

Hey are you going to do Moab? There is a 5 miler that same weekend. Check it out on the message board under announcements.

Proud of your dedication! Be careful on uphills because you can strain the tendons around your ankles. The key is to keep up the same pace (in terms of steps per minute) but take much shorter strides. If you take the same size steps then you stretch you peroneal tendons.

I am so way impressed. You are really sticking to it! Don't injure yourself.

I had a lot of knee and hip stuff come and go when I first started. Be sure to take it easy (but still exercise) when they flare up, so they won't turn into big ol' injuries. Good job!

Well It's been 6 months and I'm still complaining. For right now I think stretching has helped more than anything, but it's off/on so I tolerate it till I don't.

One week! Yea, your going to do great!

Tell me about the knee pain. Perhaps I can help figure out what it is. My guess would be that it is caused by the hip problem. When we have an injury or pain somewhere it causes us to run differently to try to accommodate. It's subconscious so you aren't really aware you are doing it. But these accommodations put stress on new parts of the body that eventually complain. Fix the hip and the knee pain will go away.

I think you are increasing the mileage too fast. Keep it down to 2 miles a day, but make it consistent 2 miles, no skipping, 6 days a week. Also, do not force the pace, do not even time it. Just go by feel. Do that for the next 3 weeks, then try adding occasional 3 mile runs to test the waters, but only if you have succeeded the no skipping part. If those 3 mile runs do not aggravate the knee, then move to steady 3 miles a day.

The no skipping part is critical to injury prevention. If you try to up the mileage before you are consistent at a lower mileage, this invites problems, especially if the higher mileage is a life-time high.

Well, I'm relieved about your hip! IT band is really important to stretch. The way I do it is to sit down and pull my leg across my chest, so I'm hugging my knee. Feels pretty good. (At least, I HOPE that is stretching my IT band.) I also do the butterfly stretch--feet in front, soles together, and lean forward.

I'm so excited about your 5K! Good luck!

I've been getting into yoga for just that reason. Stretches places you often forget exist.

You are racing on Saturday? That is so great! I'm glad that your hip is doing better. My knee has been doing lots better since I got new shoes. Taking new trails is also fun. I get really bored really quickly when I take the same path too often, so much so that I start to dread going running. I had to take new path today too. :)

Well it's almost here and it sounds like things are coming together! Your patients and persistence has paid off! so glad that the hip is cooperating too!

Hey Laura- You're having a great week it looks like! Wish you the best at your 5k Saturday! Have FUN!

I think that 65% or more of running is all mental, and you have all you need to there to get through the race tomorrow! So go out there and tell yourself how great you are and have a great time! Your going to do great. Don't focus on your time just enjoy all the people running with you and the accomplishment of having set a goal and then completed it! Good Luck!!!

Laura you should be proud. Not many people in early training forget and run too long! Good luck on your race tomorrow! I am so excited to read your race report...

You should take a before and after picture. Oh, and I hope you don't have anything planned for the rest of the day tomorrow. (He he he.) Love you!

I agree w/ Michelle- so much is mental. Don't let the fact that you ran today psych you out. Think of it as loosening your legs for tomorrow! I think you're gonna have a blast and it will really help you plan your training and what to focus on afterward. Is anybody else you know running it with you?

Thank you guys so very much. I really was feeling bummed. I so appreciate your experienced words of encouragement!!!!!! I needed that reminder!

Woohoo! Way to go Laura! I didn't really get to congratulate you when you called - you did a great job!

Yea Laura!!! First race ever! Sounds like race-day magic really came through for you. Aren't you glad you got out and did it! Now comes the fun part...you get to try to break this time after a month or so and see your progress.

I love your picture, BTW!

Sounds Like your first race was almost perfect! Great weather, easier course than you've trained on, people to distract you, smiling family at the end!!! Oh yea, and a finishing time that met your goals! It's great to start off on the right foot so your hungry for more!

Congrats on doing your first race and doing a good effort. Hope you continue on and have many more - you can do it

Good job! Sounds like the bug bit you. So I guess we'll be hearing about more races in the future!

Good work! Note that running 3 miles earlier for you right now makes quite a bit of a difference. It is like for a higher mileage runner to warm up with an half marathon at an easy pace, and then to race a half marathon afterwards. But this is good training.

Laura, you won several things doing this race, 100 commando points for your first 5k with no complaints, more self conficence and real runner status. These commando points are very valuable and will be turned in for runnner high moments when you least expect. Great, real happy for you.

Laura- Way to go! I'm so happy you had a great first race experience! Nice pic too! Are those 2 of your daughters in the pic? Sounds like you will have many more happy running days ahead- good for you!

Congratulations. Keep running!

Hey Laura! Sorry I fell out of the loop for a bit and didn't read about your race sooner. But your mom told me all about it and I was way excited for you! You are doing so great! We'll definitely have to get together for a race someday! I'm really glad to hear that you didn't have any pain.

Hey I love your new picture!! I am glad you went to the orthopedist. Keep us posted on the results of the MRI. Good kicking it home!

MRI stands for Mothers Resting Inconspicuously! Hopefully you'll get a nap--that's what I've done in the past. Nice that someone is finally able to tell you what is going on with your hip. I hope it all resolves quickly.

Good job on your run today. You're starting to get that runner attitude! Hugs!

Great job, Laura! You probably exceeded my pace today. I'd say that race gave you a real boost.

I'm glad you liked Twilight! Everybody does. Just wait 'til you read New Moon!

Debbie got absolutely addicted to those books (Kimberly read them also but she doesn't like them). She's read all three (and we own them now). I keep joking about when the new series is coming out where a girl falls in love with the mummy, or maybe Frankenstein.

Nice job! It might be your first time running without walking, but you could probably walk faster than my pace.

Laura, you are earning commando points right and left, 10 points, when you make it to 3 miles without stopping, that is a big barrier to break. Nice work. We may have to give you a warrior running name. Run fast and stay cool

Wow Laura! That is really great! And over 2 miles too, that is impressive. Seth keeps telling me I need to start adding more distance. But a mile is just such a comfortable distance to run :) Anyway, great job! I'm really excited for you.

Ah- your costumes sound cute! We have a costume party tomorrow night and still have to make ours- don't you love the last minute stuff! Good for you for getting out and making the effort, even if you had to walk a little- it still counts!!!!(charge that IPOD!)

CUTE cute cute. You have to put a family picture up with the costumes on--at least until Halloween!

I think you did a great job on your run! Hope that orthopedist told you how to strengthen your knee. If he did, please share!

I wonder if I saw your nephew last night- they had the youth join in on stage for a few songs. It was a good concert, but I gotta admit- the U of U's halloween concert it better. Anyway- Save A Sister was a breast cancer benefit. Good times!

If you just finished the Twilight series you should talk to Debbie. She's a fanatic about it.

Laura, running is good for the soul. Make that your goal for now. If you need a pep talk, I am always up for some crazy running hype.

Gait analysis hmm. I guess more information is good. Let me know how it goes. It is probably good for Mike to take her since he can't nurse Audrey. Good luck.

Hope the gait ananlysis went well. I guess it can't go wrong just use the info and take it from there. I've never sent Jamie to the hospital with out me and just her dad, I can feel your anxiety! Well sounds like the running is going well, I hear you on the first half of the run, it just takes my body a minute to give into the idea soemtimes (I think).

Laura, mental, you are tough, just look at the next tree down the road, next telephone poll, run to it, then pick out the next land marker when you are getting mentally tired. Never think about how far you have left to go. Start finding some positive mental games that work for you. Imagine you are winning the Boston Marathon. One of my games was to dream of Bill Rogers and me dueling it out down to the finish at Boston, Bill won, but he said great effort. Effort, that is ultimately your reward disguished as work. I have said too much, you can do it.

Congratulations! Perhaps the return trip of your route is slightly downhill while the outgoing trip is slightly uphill. That makes a huge difference I have found.

By the way, Debbie recommends a new book called "Goose Girl".

Great job, Laura! I agree about the first half being the hardest. For me it is sometimes the idea that I still have a long ways to go gets to me. And where's that Halloween picture? I want to see you all in costume. :)

Laura, isn't that a good feeling! I don't get all the time, but usually for a section of most runs, maybe a mile, sometimes less but when running feels good, it's really good! It makes me wonder what it feels like to have that feeling and go smokin fast like some of these guys and gals on the blog do? I'm sure it's awesome... gives us something to work for! Good for you!!!

Congratulations! You've achieved the first level of runners high. It continues to get better. :)

Good job w/ your consistency the past 3 days. I think as you continue to do your 2 miles every day you will get in the "zone" more often. The zone days are what makes it all worth it. It often takes me 2 miles just to get in the zone. Have you found another race to sign up for? My thoughts are with your daughter and her braces, etc. How's that going?

Great job Laura! It is so fun to read your blog and see your progress. You really are improving!

Aren't chiropractors wonderful? Our family would not survive without them.

Excellent job! I always feel great when I get out on Mondays- starts the week off right and gives that sense of accomplisment to propel me through the week- hope it does the same for you!!!

I agree, good job Laura! Running on Monday gets me off on a good note for the week as well. Congratulations on being able to go the distance without walking. You are already reaping the benefits in your cardiovascular system from the amount of training you are currently doing. I saw the same thing happen with Lybi when she started training as well (and with me too!). Keep up the good work, and you will be enjoying the benefits for the rest of your life.

Laura, great positive attitude, keep that attitude on tough days. I sure you will be earning big commando points in the future. Good to read your positive blog. Someday, the marathon bug may bite.

Yes! It seems like every time I look at your blog, you are improving and feeling better and better. Those first 2 months are definitely the hardest, aren't they! But now you've made it over the hump. Do you have any new races planned?

You are doing so awesome! Way to keep it up and keep pushing forward! Things only get better from here!

Wow Laura! I'm really impressed with how much you are running. Congrats on not stopping! Keep it up!

Great job Laura! You know, that phone call this morning got me out the door for my run, so THANKS! You just aren't walking anymore, are you? Keep it up, ya wild woman!

Great job, I love running on dirt for a change with no Garmin, watch, or sense of time. Feels more like a child at play with nature. Keep up the consistency.

You are a runner! You are doing great. Prett soon you'll be flying along and wondering why it used to seem so hard -- I promise.

Isn't this weather amazing! I am loving it! But at the same time dreading the up coming freeze...O'well we'll just love it while we got it! Good job getting out today, I had the same kinda day but eventually made it!

Laura - you will see a major breakthrough once you establish a pattern of training six days a week. You can build a very decent level of endurance on two miles a day six days a week. Two miles is only 25 minutes of running for you now, and will soon become 20. It does not take that much extra time, and those first two miles of your run done daily is where you get the most bang for the buck. Doing something as simple as setting your alarm clock to 30 minutes earlier can give you the time to never miss a training day.

Sasha, I appreciate your encouragement so much! Unfortunately an early morning run won't work right now. The temps in the morning are around freezing or below and when I went running last time at 35 degrees, I coughed all day (I've been fighting an itch in my lungs for over a month now). I've thought that maybe it's time to invest in a treadmill so I can run in the evenings at home. Maybe I'll ask around on the Discussion Board to see if anyone has recommendations for styles and brands.

You probably just ran too hard. Either that, or perhaps some lung problem. 35 degrees is not cold at all for moderate intensity running. Try running slower, make sure the breathing is comfortable enough to talk.

Also, make sure to properly protect your chest when running in colder weather.

That's what was so funny about that cold run - I wasn't coughing while I was running, but the rest of the day I was. Odd. I think it's a lung issue that I can't seem to kick. I even tried Claritin for a few days on Lybi's recommendation. Hmm.

Grumpy= good time to do a tempo run! Or dejunk the garage. I can be ruthless at de-junking when I'm grumpy. Love you.

Has Lybi always been that funny? Who's older?

I'm proud of you for being consistent. You remind me a lot of well..me when I first started out a few years ago...I remember feeling like I could run a marathon once I crossed the four mile barrier. Keep up the good work. Is that your little girl? She is so cute!!

Yes, Lybi was ALWAYS been funny. I'm older by 2.5 years, but she always outshines me. But it's okay, cuz I like laughing along with everyone else.

Ha,ha! Sarah, that's so true. I came home after running 3 miles and was sure I was headed for great things!!! ;o)

Yes, both girls in the picture are mine. The baby is so fair skinned; sometimes I feel like we're a commercial for ebony and ivory! They are so fun, though. I'm sure Hayley (on my hip) is going to be a great runner. She's so coordinated and has so much energy.

Way to get out there- even when you're grumpy! I'm finding that consistency is the key! (or so I hear- LOL!)

Laura, every run is eventful, make it so.

Take care

Sasha would love to adopt a black baby someday for that very reason. he'd love to raise a little world class runner. Works for me since I think black babies are actually the cutest babies!!

WOW !! That is so awesome! When you decide to get serious the improvements just keep coming! Way to end the week on a good note!

(eventful... hmmm?? I'll have to think about that!)

Laura, Great attitude, way to go on the time improvement. By the way, no pain while running? Try and stay consistent over the winter. We are proud of your improvement in both running time, endurance and most important, mental attitude. Great thing about running, the self-confidence gained spreads to the rest of your life.

Stay Cool, B of BS Rools out.

No, I really haven't been having much pain. Occassionally my hip hurts after I've been sitting for a while; but it's no longer correlated to my running. And sometimes when I'm running, my knee lets me know that it's unhappy; but it's usually something I can run through and it eventually goes away.

Thanks, Michelle!! Are you still coming off your vacation high, or are you firmly back home and in the trenches again? hee,hee.

Holy smokes! It is so cool that you seem to improve on almost every single run. I am so proud of you. You realize this is a lifetime record, right! Keep up the great work!

I'm sure your cardio is improving! You are keeping the same bpm, but you are spending much more time running, and much less walking. That's improvement!

I've noticed the heart rate dropping after a few minutes also. I think the aerobic system takes a few minutes to really get working.

It's not your heart rate while exercising that tells you if you are getting more fit though. That's because as you get faster you are doing more work per unit time so even if you are more fit the heart rate might be the same. Check your heart rate first thing in the morning, before you get out of bed. That is your resting heart rate and it will drop pretty significantly as you get more fit.

Hoo-boy!!! What a week. You are definitely my hero, Laura. Ouch! It's hard to hear you worn to the nub like this. I guess it's especially hard when kids are sick--you don't want anyone else to get it, so you can't even get help. Mothers are a special kind of tough, though. Good job! Hope your run helped you recover!

Must not get sick for Thanksgiving! Get some extra sleep! Emergen-C, Long hot baths, whatever it takes!

Good job on your run today. You just passed up the pace of my first race.

Good job on getting in more than 2...you are on your way!!

Lybi and I did click and couldn't stop talking to eachother...we still plan on moving next door to one another some day.

Sasha is very sweet...very awesome but completely without guile...I think you'd just love him. :) Thanks for the comment...hope to get to know you better too.

Laura, have not checked in on you for a while, keep consistent, keep tough, and have a great thanksgiving. By the way, is the pain gone on your runs now?

by the way, Sarah is so kind, great person.

Take Care, B of BS Rools out

Uh-oh, no runs for a few days. Did you get sick? Are you ok?

Laura, maybe your body was telling you to take a break. Laura's got her running groove back.

B of BS Rools out

Good job getting out. 2 in a row! You can do it!

Oh, that Dr. appt. sounds AWFUL! I got the willies just reading about it. Hope you feel better soon. "I had eye things!!!" What does that mean?

oops. Thanks, Lybi. I fixed it to say "I hate eye things!"

Glad that you are making the goal so far! The hill I'm sure was worth about and extra mile! Hope you feel better soon and the eye heals well!

Good job Laura! So sorry you fell AGAIN! Sounds like you had somewhat of a runner's high to help you through it. Love you, sis.

I find that a nice hot bath before bed and it helps alot.. maybe I should try it right after running, you seem to have benefitted a great deal! ( I don't know why we have to fight these mental battles almost daily for me? When we know that in the long run it makes us feel better and is soo good for us!) Good job getting it done!!

Well now I know we are really connected. My pace today with the stroller was about 12:30. And that's on a completely flat course!

Hey are you registered to run in the Canyonland's half marathon in Moab on March 8th? You should! There is a 5 miler too, if you prefer. We should invite Heber to come, and Seth and Kristina. We could all share a cabin. Mom could come too, or stay at our house. She is going to watch our kids for us--it looks like James will be running it too. Check it out and let me know! Registration ends on Dec. 15th, I think.

Hey! Just dropping by to say hi! Looks like you've been good & consistent- even running in the COLD! You joining us in Moab (at least for the 5 miler)?

Laura, congrads on the 6 days, do your best to stay consistent. Way to go. Not quite commando point week, but, do it two in a row and we will evaluate.

All in fun, take care, Stay cool, B of BS Rools out.

I feel like that a lot too! Sometimes I look at it like eating the whole apple at once instead of one bite at a time! But I think just getting out on a Monday sometimes is worth some commando points! Good Job!!

Tag, you're it! Good job Laura. I felt blah too. Our connection continues...

Great job getting out. This is the hardest time of year! Its cold and too many distractions w/ Christmas around the corner! Thanks for your comments on my blog! Yeah, I think the cold is just bad enough to keep me in bed in the morning too long. Once I got going today I was fine- so I'm going to drag my running legs out of bed in the morning (made a date w/ a running partner so I'd HAVE to get up!)

Okay...maybe you're going to hate me for this comment but I love Mondays. I force myself to do absolutely nothing on Sundays so on Mondays I am so excited to be able to work on things again.....sewing, baking..whatever it is I'm interested in. Maybe your Sundays aren't boring enough....I always always take a really long nap when my babies are sleeping and ignore my older children. I so very much sympathize with the blah feeling. Sounds like you must be getting in shape because your legs knew what to do and kept going...

Laura, the first step out the door is always the hardest. Many days when I don't feel like running turn out to be great runs. Funny how that works.

Stay Cool, B of BS Rools out

The good thing about running is that tomorrow is another day and another run. It should be better. Great job getting it done!

Congratulations! Worst run ever is quite an achievement. I'm proud of you--you are really getting tough. (Even if you did murder a bug just because it happened to be in your...path.)

By the way in your picture you look like you are thinking about how HOT you are. ;p Thhhbbbbt!!!!

You must be a true runner now! In the summer I usually wear sunglasses to prevent the bug in the eye thing! But I have also sucked them into my mouth and up my nose! Yum, Yum!!! I look at it like an energy boost from the micro protein that I ingest, but through the eye.....I don't know if you got much out of it, sorry!! Have a good run today, nothing like a bad one to realize that it can only get better today!

Yes, need more sleep! Sasha may chime in here too, but from my own experience, if I don't get enough sleep, not only am I more irritable, but my running also suffers, and I become more prone to injury if the sleep deprivation continues long enough. With all you are doing, you should be trying to get at least 8 hours of sleep, especially when you tack on running.

Yes, James, I think 8-9 hours is what I'll shoot for. As you know, though, once the kids are in bed and you finally have quiet and freedom, the hours FLY so much faster and before you know it ... it's 11:30. Ugh. But I certainly don't want to get any injuries, and I'm tired of feeling hammered every day; so I'm going to try to make it to bed by 9:30 or earlier!

I have the sleep column on the mileage board on my TODO list.

I feel your pain Laura! We are working on cutting out Simeon's night-time feeding(s) which means that Simeon now wakes up at 5 am wanting to eat and he won't go back to sleep afterwards. We go to bed at 10:00 and I still feel horrible. Take it easy and try not to overdo it. We nursing mothers have to stick together for our right to not run when we are tired :)

That is too funny, Sasha. I was just telling James yesterday that I needed to start blogging my hours of sleep. That would really help me!

Wow, nice weather, Laura! Good job taking advantage of it. I predict you will feel better tomorrow.

I think that's a great idea, Sasha. I was going to start posting my sleeping hours too, just to make myself accountable even more. (Great minds think alike, Lybi.) There's nothing like having my laziness made public to keep me motivated.

Sorry about your foot, hope it gets better soon!

Take it seriously about your foot. You may have hurt it more than you know. I would not push using it or you may pay for it in the long run. Love you

I'd say Laura did at LEAST .12 miles of hobbling around the house yesterday, she's just too modest to blog it. Slow, I will grant you, but she still gets commando points in my book! Love you Shor-T. Your Chipmunk Husband.

Shopping is more dangerous than running this time of year! Feel better soon.

Ut-oh. How's the foot treating you? At least you picked a good time of year to be laid up- its cold out there and there's more fun things to do than run! Wish you a fast recovery!!

How's your foot? Hope you are ok!

Yeah!! Sounds like you are getting better. Don't push your foot. If it was sprained, it takes longer to heal than you can believe. So listen to your body. I am proud of you that you look forward to running and miss it. I can't believe this is my little LaLa. PS What book were you involved in?

Three cheers for the abominable running snowgirl! Although, now I have guilt...and no more excuses!

Adversity, keep strong mentally, "you can do it". Winter days running can easily be dismissed for many reasons. I always think, I don't want to lose the conditioning gained, that gets me out the door.

B of BS Rools out

Ha...yes...that is true about Sasha. The man will run in shorts in very cold weather. He of course runs faster than a lot of people and as a rule probably has more blood vessels or bigger ones or something that an exercise physiologist could explain to you. I am very proud of you for running in the cold. It really isn't so bad. I draw the line at thunderstorms, hail, um...sleet..you know but cold isn't that bad....

Thanks, Mom and Mike! I don't know about the guilt, Mike. I'm not out there at 4:30 in the morning with 9 degree weather, cycling. I'm still snuggled in bed .. unaware of the guilt I should be feeling. :o)

Brent, I appreciate your comment. You always seem to say the right thing. It's absolutely true that I don't want to lose my conditioning. The first 3 months were slow going and I don't want to go back to the beginning again.

Yea Laura! What a woman! Some day you'll be out on a 8-9 mile run while it snows and come back looking like the Abominable Snow Mommy.

PS I've started running on the treadmill because it is getting colder--even below 50 degrees sometimes. Sheesh! (Ha ha)

Great Job! Realizing you miss running is the best. I'd rather take off layers then freeze any day.

I think your right the first few days of running in the snow is fun, but I think that it might get old fast!!!!

Sarah, I was actually thinking about you as I was running yesterday! I was remembering your blog last week when you talked about all the boys who you dated in college and how 2 Sashas told you they loved you on the same day ... and a few other funny incidents. Too funny. I'm sorry you're not pregnant, but glad that you are able to get some medication to help with your thyroid.

Lybi, you're a hoot. Are you really running on the treadmill because it's ... too cold outside? Actually, I guess you could tease me the opposite way. When you ran your race this summer in 105 degree weather, I was sure that would've put me 6 feet under!

Thanks, Jody and Michelle, for your encouragement!! Jody, your obstacle running course in the snow, ice, and dangerous limbs sounds way more exciting than mine was!!

Wow Laura! I am impressed and I also think you are going crazy. It is not even snowing here and I think it is too cold to run outside. I guess it's because my high school CC coach made me paranoid about freezing my lungs :P But I'm impressed at how much you are doing and how much you are improving. I guess I should stop saying I'm too busy because you are way busier than I am! Way to go!

Did you ever think you'd love running in the snow? I'm so proud of you. You really have made it past the yucky part.

Nice job getting out! That sure sounds (brrrrr!) cold to me! But the peaceful nights run sounds very enjoyable! I like to run in the dark too, I don't pay attention to the hills and just do it!

Maybe the garmin was cashing in on comando points and giving you extra credits! 3 plus miles is a great run for you, and on ice!!!

Anytime the Garmin makes an error in your favor, take it! Good job and BE CAREFUL!

Cute new picture! I'm with Lybi - Take what you can get!

Good job on the run today. Garmin relies on clear sight to a GPS satellite to provide accurate data. One possibility is that it was having a tough time acquiring satellite lock. Another thing you can do is do a hard reset on the device if there is any corruption, but this will lose all its history and configuration. Garmin's support website should have details on how to do a hard reset on the 201/301, it may be different than the 205/305.

Laura, great job, be careful not to fall or twist an ankle. Garmins can be weird. Mine has never been that far off. Nice family picture.

Stay Cool, B of BS Rools out

Thank you, everyone, for your encouragement!!!!! Yes, I was tempted to take the garmin's numbers. ;o)

And, yes, Brent and Lybi - I will try to be very careful! I'm doing pretty good getting injuries already - I don't need any help from the ice!!

And ... thanks for noticing our holiday family picture. Of course I'm highly prejudiced, but I think my girls are absolutely adorable!!!! ;o)

Bottom of your heel or back of your heel? Do you do any stretching after you run?

Good run, Laura! You deserve a little warmth--may it continue! The pain in your heel worries me a little. Could be the start of plantar fasciatis, which is one of the the most common injuries among distance runners. Have you ever felt it first thing in the morning?

It was the bottom of my heel. And, no, it didn't hurt this morning. In fact, as soon as I got off it and we talked with our company while sitting on the couches (instead of cooking, cleaning, etc.) then it began to feel better. It was most likely due to a back alignment proble; at least that seems to be the source of a lot of my problems.

You're cute. Good work. If you come do a 5K here your body will eat up the flat terrain like nothing!

Laura, there is an opportunity for commando points, same course, same alerts and they don't go off. You will get major commando points and be ready for any 5k

Stay Cool, B of BS Rools out

That Garmin is a bitter task master... but hey, if it gets you commando points and gets you in shape, it's all worth it, right? 8-)

Good progress.

I have never used the alerts on my Garmin before. I ran a race this summer with Jon Allen and he and I were duking it out with a high school kid for the win. The high schooler had a Garmin on and his alerts were going off the entire 10k, it drove me crazy! I later became his cross country coach and never let him where his Garmin in a race the whole season. I thought it was a distraction. But if it helps you get up that hill better, without driving you nuts, than go for it.

Good job of getting in those miles. Wish you guys could be out here in NM for Christmas. At least I can't trump the weather on you - it was in the 20's when Lybi and I ran out here this evening as well . . . brrrrrr!

Great job, Laura! And by the way, your Christmas cards are worth waiting for. :)

Getting out this week and next at all is an accomplishment in my opionion!! I'm with you, can't wait for warmer running clothes...only one more run without them, yea!!

Grunting is a good sign. All the elites do it (he he).

Hey, guess who I just got off the phone with? Gokalp! He said to wish you a Merry Christmas! Fun stuff. He is an architect now.

Merry Christmas Beloved Sisterama!

Just make sure you smoke her!

Yeeeeehaw!!! Let's do it. I will try very hard to keep up!

I just read your blog, Lybi. Are you SURE you're up to it? I don't want you to get injured. But if you're sure, then ... let's do it!! I'll meet you there at 9:30 (I can actually show up earlier and register for both of us since it's so close.)

Laura, the challenge is on, 25 commando points if you run the race, be brave and strong, you get an extra 25 if you run it Lybi, get your hubbies to take a picture of both of you crossing the finish line together and post the picture to your blogs.

Stay Cool, have a great 2008, B of BS Rools out

Hey, be brave, commando points on the line.

Can't wait to hear how you both do! Be sure to update the blog later, I'll be up all night waiting to hear the results!!!

GO FAST RUNNING BLOG CHICKS!!!!

Laura- just read Lybi's account of the race. BRAVO!!! WAY TO GO!!! You did awesome! I'll have to borrow Lybi sometime to pace me! Great family pic too by the way. HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Not only did Laura absolutely demolish her race pace by 2 min. per mile (over 6 min. for a 5K!!), she also set a lifetime record for most miles run in a day today at 6.83!!!

Goooooooooooooooo Laura!

Great job!! I bet you didn't know you were doing so well. Running almost 7 miles in one day. Wow. Your race pace was so much faster.

Great Race!! Great miles for the day. You have done an awesome job!!

Laura, 25 commando points for being sister act I, teamwork for all the right reasons, 25 points for guts, and 50 points for a 5k PR, I know, it was not a PR, but a great PR effort, total 100 commando points. I expect Sister Act II will be a half marathon and sister Act III a marathon together. I know, seems way off, someday always comes.

Stay Cool B of BS Rools out

Congratulations on a great race! It is wonderful to have a great pacer, isn't it? Good job not giving up toward the end. Whether the person passes you is not as important as what you do about it when you hear them coming up on you. Great way to start the new year!

Sounds like you two had a great time and an awesome race! What a fun way to ring in the New Year together! Sounds like you really put your whole self into this one and it totally paid off!! Way to increase the mileage too! Are we on to some new distance records for 2008? :)

Great race! Congrats on a PR. It is a 3 mile PR, but still a big PR. You will do great this next year...

Nice PR, should give you some good confidence going into 2008. Glad you had fun!

Very good. Congratulations on the breakthrough. You were on pace for about 29:40 5 K.

Thank you so much, everyone! I was on the road all day yesterday so I didn't have a chance to reply. It was a great race and I'm so happy Lybi and I ran together!

Brent, thanks for the commando points!!!

Thanks, Michelle and Christi! New goals for 2008 are a great idea ...

Michelle L, Monaflash James, Cody, and Sasha - thanks so much for commenting on my race!! I appreciate your support so much!