Running Diary of a Woman called Sarah.

2011-10-30T13:49:00.000Z

I promise that I am still running ... yes its a bit intermittent, and I don't always blog about it ... but I am!! I just wish I was better, stronger, faster. Maybe if I got up and ran more often I would achieve those things. I am going to try and post more often.

Do you have any advice for me??

Determination - if only I had some!!

2011-03-26T07:58:00.000Z

Yes, I know... Another long time since I have been on here. My running is intermittent so say the least!! I did run this week for the first time in ages. I went out with my running group and managed to run for about an hour. I did have the odd walk here and there and I have to admit that I was so slow my friend and I got hopelessly left behind!!

I am always amazed by my residual fitness levels.To be able to run for an hour, no matter how slowly, is pretty good in my book. I do think, though, that I need to increase my speed and ability before I go out with them again!!

I do enjoy running. I must start going out by myself a couple of times a week at least.It is hard to find time though. What with my study, the allotment, my garden, work, family... All those things are important to me. There do not seem to be enough hours in the day, even if I am up at 6am!!!

Ah well - I must do it... must do it. Determination is all!!

Anew running group and a new enthusiasm!

2010-09-15T07:45:00.000+01:00

You may know that I play football on Sundays.Well, the girls I play with have started going running on Tuesdays.They asked me to go along too, so for the past 2 weeks on a Tuesday night I have been running with them.The first week we were out for an hour and a half ( aaaaah!!) and last night we were out for about an hour.

Its quite a change for me to be running with other people and I have to say that it is a pleasant change!I have always ( well, 99% of the time) pounded the streets by myself. This has mostly been because its easier to just go out spontaneously by myself and also because I am sooooo slow that I feel uncomfortable going out with people who constantly have to wait for me.

There are 7 of us in our little group and our run has the advantage that we can go through the woods, across the golf course - places that I would not dream of going by myself.Also we are of differing ability levels.There are 4 who are faster, 2 in the middle and my friend J and myself bringing up the rear. The whole thing is about fun, having a chat and a stretch and then keeping running.Yesterday we all turned up even though it was peeing down with rain.

This week was easier than last week and I am hoping that I can shorten the gap between we back 2 and the others. I did suggest that I was too slow to run with the front 4 and that maybe I would stop. Their reaction was, kindly, to tell me not to be so silly and that they loved running with me.If I didn't come they would be on the phone to ask where I was!

So - I have a new running group and a new enthusiasm. All good!

Think like a whippet... run like an elephant.

2010-08-01T11:55:00.000+01:00

So... its about 6 weeks since I last posted and last ran.The reason I stopped running was:

a) I went out with 10 year old son & hurt knee while running 3 miles.... sad.
b) I missed race I was due to run in because of other son's activities & knee.

I decided that it was time to run again and went out this morning.I got about a mile away and my knee started to hurt again.I don't think its my knee particularly - more to do with my right quad that tightens and then affects my knee. I had a similar problem when doing the Marathon.

However... it made me have to stop running and walk the rest of the way home. Bugger! Bugger! Bugger!!

When you are young you think that an injury is actually caused by something specific, but as you get older you realise that injuries just sometimes occur because your body is getting on a bit...So... what to do? I cannot possibly give up on exercise.Neither my mental nor physical health will allow that. So I will just have to walk. That will hopefully firm up my muscles and maybe I will be able to run later.

I also plan on cycling when and where I can.My holiday is coming up and there are 3 pools and the sea at the hotel so I will swim a lot each day.I am determined to stay fit/ get much fitter. Its also the only way I can stay reasonably slim.Plus... I need exercise to stop me going nuts!!

Right... this is another new start.New look for the blog. New plan for my exercise.I am just absolutely determined not to turn into a couch potato.xx

When Running hits an obstacle.

2010-06-11T12:43:00.000+01:00

I was so excited about running Race for Life. For those of you who don't know, Race for Life is a series of races organised by Tesco and Cancer Research. They are for women only ( don't really agree with that m'self ) and over 5k. You can walk, run, jog, waddle - it doesn't matter. The aim is to get out there, show sisterhood and raise money.

I ran... actually no, I walked my first one about 10 years ago. It was my first ever race and I did it with two friends. That year I vowed to jog the same race the next year - and I did.Since then I have either run or marshalled the race every year.

So, this year I was excited, as I say, to be running.However, as is the fate of mothers, my children intervened to change my plans.Son #1 was asked to play in a football match - the first one for his new team.Husband was at work and it was the same time as my run.So... what do you do as a mum? Do you do what you want and ignore your child? ( Well, sometimes, frankly, yes ) Or do you put your event to one side and allow them to do theirs?

You can tell that this time I thought it was more important for him to play his football, so with grudging good grace I cancelled my run.To be honest, it was the right thing to do as my knee had been pretty painful the week before and I am not sure if I could have completed the race without hobbling. And... amazingly, he won 8 - 0.

So... I am a martyr and mother to a winner!! I will run it next year though!! I have my exam next Thursday and then I can run guilt free and enjoy!

The thrill of hot water after a hard game...

2010-05-16T19:46:00.000+01:00

There is nothing as delicious as the feeling of hot shower water hitting your body when you have just done an hour of hard exercise in the rain... Well, maybe there are better things, but tonight as the said water hit my aching body it was like heaven in a bath tub.

I have run twice this week and I am glad to note that I am getting a little faster - helped by the fact that I have lost more weight. The total now is 17 pounds and I am thrilled.Today I played football and it was brutal!! I stopped the ball going into the back of the net from a hard hit volley and I thought I'd broken my ankle!! Luckily after a minute or two of gentle rubbing all was well again! I did feel a bit scared of the ball after that though...

Now I am back home, cooking tea in between blogging and looking forward to running tomorrow.

Run number 4 in the rain.

2010-05-02T16:07:00.000+01:00

I woke up this morning to the sound of rain on my window pane.For some bizarre reason I felt the urge to run, so I put on my kit, ate a banana, drank some orange squash and headed out.I ran a different route to normal which was just under 3 miles.I really enjoyed myself and was pleased to have done it in just under 35 minutes.I just love running in the rain - the smell of fresh leaves and grass and the satisfaction of a hot shower afterwards.I am very happy with my running and this run makes 4 this week - a total of just over 8and a half miles. Smashing!

Moving up the mileage... don't get too excited!!

2010-04-28T14:06:00.000+01:00

I can feel the sweat on my face that has dried to a salty dust! I just did my second run of the week and this time raised my mileage to just over 2.For those of you who are seasoned, regular runners this may not seem that much, but to me it represents a triumph!! To actually be able to run most of 2.18 miles feels great.

Last night I signed up for a 5k race on June 6th. I think its a good goal to be aiming for.I have done this race before and I know that in a month's time I will be able to do 3 and a bit miles.The old body feels pretty good at the moment and my belly doesn't hang over the top of my running trousers too badly!!

Running again - beginning from scratch.

2010-04-25T15:37:00.000+01:00

It is an awfully long time since I wrote anything on here... and the reason for that is mainly because the old running palaver went down the tubes due to various problems like achilles tendon nonsense.Achilles soreness takes a long long time to heal.

Luckily... and I mean luckily, I am back and running!! Since Christmas I have lost quite a bit of weight - about 12 pounds and I am trying to lose more. That has made a big difference to my ability to run. Also my achilles are much better.

So, now I am running 3 times a week - a distance each time of 1.85 miles. Each time I go out I try to run a little bit further on my route. To start with I was stopping to walk for a minute about 7 or 8 times a session then continuing running. The last time I went out I ran with only 3 stops to walk. My time has gone down from 25 minutes to 21 minutes 35 seconds!

For the first time in a couple of years I am really enjoying my running and am happy as I run. I aim to be able to run my whole circuit and then I will start to make it longer.I am going to sign up for a 5k race in June and a 10k race in September.I have been running for a month now and am back into a routine. If I miss a run I am unhappy!

If I can maintain this I will be so chuffed!!

I am fat, I am slow.... but I'm not scared!!!

2009-09-28T22:52:00.000+01:00

I am getting there with my Achilles.The exercises that my physio gave me are working well, but it is still sore at times and I feel a little scared to do huge amounts on it. Still, luckily, as you can read on my other blog over at Secret Housewife headquarters, I am being a complete lazy cow at the moment so there's not much fear of me doing much exercise, or at least, enough to injure my ankle.

Having said that I did play football yesterday and it was great.I wasn't looking forward to it as I had received the results of our tests and, yes.... I came bottom of everything.I was even worse than Fat Claire. For God's sake don't let her know I said that... its really mean.But I did think I would beat her even if I didn't beat the other younger, taller, fitter ( God I hate them all....) girls.

But, anyway... I went, I played and I loved it.I played in defence and I think I was good at it.However, I thought I beat Claire, so don't take my word for being good at anything!I took my frustration out on that pesky ball and found that I am not scared of tackling.I also have learned a thing or two from years on the touchline watching my Man and the boys and I can read the game better than some of the others..... I think....

I am even considering going for a run in the morning before work...like 6am.If I ever tear myself away from the computer...

Trip to the physio for achlles tendonitis...

2009-08-24T23:03:00.005+01:00

I soooooo wish this was my local pool... found the photo on Google images!!

Well, I went to the physio today and she was excellent. She spent a long time looking at my feet and legs and gave me exercises to do. It turns out I have a bunion on my right foot which isn't helping matters ( ugh! bunions sound soooo ugly and old don't they??) So I have exercises to do to help that. Then with my achilles tendon... I do have chronic tendonitis, but I feel that the things she has given me to do will really help.

I did get odd looks from the family as I began my first set of 15 reps, standing on the bottom step of my staircase. I have to go up on my good tiptoe, transfer to my bad, and go all the way down so my bad ankle hangs off the step and then keep going in a square. By # 45 the first time round my leg was a bit wobbly, but I am sure it will strengthen the muscles no end.

I also went swimming today. I went with the boys so I couldn't do as much as I would have liked, but I still managed 600 metres. I found it very enjoyable and was glad to find that my new rhythm of breathing every 4th stroke on front crawl worked well. So, all in all an optimistic day.

Update on my Achilles...

2009-08-19T00:07:00.003+01:00

Just a quick update...

I went to the doctor today and he said I have chronic tendonitis of my Achilles. I now have an appointment on Monday with the physio. So, hopefully I can get this thing sorted. I was looking at my son's medals ( he has run various races at the same time as me and won medals ) and I thought that I need to run. I need to race again. I keep looking outside and thinking "Oh, I'll go for a run... it looks nice." And then I remember my stupid Achilles.

So, Hopefully this is the beginning of getting it sorted.

An update from a big old sludgy woman...

2009-08-09T12:34:00.002+01:00

Well, chaps... the football season in my life is on hols until September as the rest of the girls are on holiday in sunny Menorca. The running is on hold because my Achilles are still bugging me...aaaaahhh!!!! I am turning into one big, fat sludgy old woman...

So, the plan is to go and see my doctor again this week and ask to go privately to a specialist. Thank goodness for my husband's health care!! And also I am going to swim. I have to do something as I am going stir crazy here...

Match of the Day...

2009-07-29T23:28:00.003+01:00

oh, I wish my tackling looked like this!!!!

I realised just now that I haven't written about my big football match...the one where I was upset cos I was on the bench... Well, it happened on Saturday last and it was absolutely brilliant!!!

Yes, I was on the bench for the first 10 minutes or so, but then we had rolling subs so I took my turn and we all played an equal amount. I played as right back and Good Grief did I love it!!! I would never have guessed that I would enjoy getting stuck in so much. We were playing against the men ( husbands and boyfriends ) and I knew no fear!!!

Even if I do say so myself, I played well and made some good tackles as well as harrying the guys as they tried to get to goal. In the end we girls won 4-2. Such good fun and I felt a real camaraderie with the other girls. If you have a chance of joining a team I cannot recommend it enough!!

Run number 2 this week... brilliant!

2009-07-23T12:34:00.004+01:00

Wow! This is great! I am just back from another run - just under a mile this time as I'm trying to play it safe. Yesterday I played football with the boys and my husband for an hour and my ankles did feel a little stiff this morning, but the sun was shining and I just fancied a run... so I did.

That's the good thing about the holidays - I can simply do what I want when I want. What a luxury!! I wish I had taken my camera as the countryside was lovely today. I shall remember from now on.... its probably not great for my running, but I do love posting the photos on here of where I run.

I shall try to dig out an old one of where I went today.

Running with my son in the rain.

2009-07-21T11:13:00.003+01:00

Just got back from a run. I went out in the drizzle with #1 son and we did 1.68 miles together. My Nike+Ipod thingy won't load yet so it doesn't show on my widget, but I promise I ran!!

It was lovely running with my son - much better fun than running alone, even though he is like a gazelle and MUCH faster than me!!He did, however, develop a mystery injury at about 2/3 of the way. I think he actually just wanted me to phone home and get a lift back. Unlucky son!! Your mum is made of sterner stuff than that. Run through the pain I told him!! And, amazingly, when he realised that I was utterly without sympathy for his mystery ailment he steamed past at a million miles an hour. A miracle!!

So. I will upload some photos I took of our drizzle covered viaduct later on today. But until then...tata.

Being on the bench...sucks.

2009-07-19T23:29:00.002+01:00

Life has been so busy that I have not had time or energy to run this week. I did, however, play football today. I played well and scored quite a few goals and was pleased that my ball control seems to be getting better. I wrote on my other day to day blog about how I felt when I found out I'm on the bench next week for our big game.... not happy.

Still, such is life. The main thing is... I didn't give up and I played well. I just wish my sport didn't involve me feeling like the little fat kid who never gets picked for the team!!! Grrrrrrrrrrr.... still at least I have my blogs on which to rant.

Back to running...phew!

2009-07-05T11:29:00.002+01:00

I woke up this morning and decided that today was the day to go running. So at 8.15 am I was up and dressed, had a glass of water and headed out. My plan was to walk for a while to warm up my achilles and then run. I did exactly that!

The day was overcast and quite cool and I stretched well before I started to run. I felt surprisingly good, which was nice and ran slowly in a loop. I only did about 0.76 miles, but I decided that I would rather start slow and leave myself wanting more, than do too much and regret it. I was pleased at how easy it felt and by how much I actually enjoyed myself!

I stretched well when I finished and now feel rather smug and definitely pleased that it went so well. I am planning to play football later on - again with lots of warm up and stretching.

An update on my achilles and general sporting situation!

2009-06-21T11:34:00.003+01:00

Well, it has been an awfully long time since I went running. My achilles continues to niggle. Its stiff in the mornings and wearing boots seems to exaserpate the feeling. So I am wearing flip flops a lot. I did play tennis the other day which was fine as the game was very slow.

me not looking my glamorous best...but happy during our bike ride!!!

I plan to start running again on the 1st July, with lots of warming up, stretching and warming down afterwards.I am trying to walk quite a bit and also lose some weight. I have done a little bit of cycling which was good and enjoyable.

It is very frustrating not to be able to move freely, but I decided that it was just not worth risking a rupture by continuing to play football and go running. I need to listen to my body and it will heal gradually. Thanks to Bill Stankus for your kind comment and advice.

So, watch this space - I have no intention of giving up exercise...in fact I can't wait to get back out there and when I do I will have photos and reports for you! Please don't give up on me!!

Help...Achilles tendon problems...need advice!!

2009-05-17T18:47:00.003+01:00

I haven't run this week as my Achilles tendons have felt sore.The right one is worse than the left which seems to be getting better.I have been stretching and went to see the doctor on Wednesday who said theyw ere inflamed and needed rest.Bugger.

So, I haven't done anything until today when the temptation of football was too great.And I have to say it may have been a mistake as my right ankle is throbbing.Any ideas or experience on this anyone?I don't want to turn into a blob, but I don't want to injure myself badly.Think I will have to Google it...

Runs this week - Monday 5th May - Sunday 10th May 2009

2009-05-11T14:56:00.002+01:00

runs this week ... 2
mileage this week ... 3.36
football this week ... 1 hour
mileage this year ... 50.16

Slight crisis of confidence, but a brilliant bit of control!!

2009-05-10T18:34:00.002+01:00

Just back from Football.Really enjoyed it again although I did have a sudden crisis of confidence,as is my wont.Still did a brilliant bit of control with my left foot and crossed for a goal( well,it would have been if she'd scored!!) Really hard work ,but worth it!!

Also one of the girls who is running their first 5k race this June, asked me about running the Marathon.She wants to run it in memory of her friend and she said she felt inspired by me.Really touched and will do all I can to help her.

So, a good week this week.

A month to be ready for my race...

2009-05-06T17:33:00.002+01:00

Today was really rather hot and sunny and, as I have a 5k race coming up in a month(don't laugh!)I thought I ought to see how I fared running the said 5k.I havebeen piddling about running a mile here and a mile there so I decided to go a bit longer.I took my Nike+ Ipod thingy with me and actually listened to music.There's nothing like a bit of U2 or Green Day belting out through your headphones to give you a bit of a push!!

So, I ended up running 3.91 k or 2.47 miles as that was the length of my route.It was pretty enjoyable and although I do feel heavy as I run I am happy.I had a good stretch and reminded myself that this route is a very hilly one.As are all the routes around here.Grrrrr.

The 5k race is doable I reckon and I have a month to be fitter and lighter.

Running with my neighbour.

2009-05-04T11:13:00.003+01:00

Having spent last night with my neighbours I had arranged to run with them...well with my friend C.When I phoned at 10 ( because I was too lazy to tap on their front door!) she was still in bed, but we arranged to meet at 10.30am and run.We duly did so and ran just under a mile.

My Achilles are sore, but I keep stretching them, and I enjoyed the run. But it does reenforce the fact that I need to lose weight and get fitter. I have put on 14 pounds since the Marathon last year and I feel heavy. I am working on it, but I don't believe in starving and crash diets.It will take time, but I just need to be sensible and eat healthily, keep exercising as I am and enjoy myself.

Anyway... run #1 down for this week!!

A busy day...

2009-05-03T10:07:00.002+01:00

I woke up this morning really fancying a run.This does not happen much at the moment so I took advantage and was out the door quicker than you could say Jack Flash!! I ran 1.27 miles and felt ok. My back was absolutely fine, not even a twinge, and my achilles were ok. I have found a good stretch for them so I am hoping that it will sort them out.

The main thing is that I have run twice this week as well as playing an hour of tennis and this afternoon I am playing football for an hour and a bit. Its all good for the system!!

If you are out there thinking that you would like to run or do some sport, but can't or don't feel you are good enough, then don't worry.You just need to get out there, a bit at a time and feel glad that you are doing something. Its about enjoying yourself and also preparing your body for the rest of your life. I don't want to wake up one morning at the age of 60 and think " Oh no!! I can't actually do any sport and my belly is hanging by my knees!!!"

So.... go for a walk today and get started.Sermon over!!

Runs this Week...Monday 27th April - Sunday 3rd May 2009

2009-05-03T10:05:00.002+01:00

runs this week ... 2
tennis this week ... 1 hour
football this week ... 1 hour
mileage this week ... 2.5
mileage this year ... 46.8

Marathon entered... must now train!!

2009-04-29T18:05:00.002+01:00

Just a quick post to say that I went for a run today. I have applied ( again) for the Virgin London Marathon 2010 and thought that maybe I should get out there!! I am playing tennis once a week for an hour, football once a week for an hour and now I hope to be back running.

Today was good. My back feels fine so far and my achilles were a little stiff, but loosened up and felt fine. I have stretched well and am now heading for the shower!!I am eating very sensibly in the hope of losing some weight. I have put on over a stone ( 14 pounds) since the marathon in 2008 so I need to get back in shape.My poor old legs won't take this extra blubber!!

So, all well. Just need, as ever, to keep doing it!!

Runs this week - Monday 13th April - Sunday 19th April

2009-04-19T19:17:00.001+01:00

runs this week...1 ... well I am injured!!
mileage this week...0.68
mileage this year...44.98

Girls Football rocks!!!

2009-04-19T19:08:00.002+01:00

Just one little run this week, but this afternoon I played football again. I LOVE IT!!! There were 11 of us plus the coach.First we warmed up with some drills and then we played a match. I had m'new astro boots on, with m'new socks and m'new shin pads. A vision in black and white!!I couldn't go for a drink afterwards, but the girls are all so nice and friendly - they were very complimentary about my playing.

So, back to work this week and hopefully I will get back into the routine of running. If I can 3 times a week and play football too I will be doing well!The most important thing is that I enjoy it so much.

My hubbie came back from baseball about the same time I got home from footie and we agreed that we are so lucky that we can both do our sports.So, now I am going to have a lovely shower, followed by slow roasted pork, mash, gravy, purple sprouting broccoli... and a rather nice bottle of red wine!!

At least it was a little run...

2009-04-17T11:01:00.003+01:00

I went for a tentative run yesterday. My back is still sore, but much better than it was and my achilles is tender, but better when it warms up.So, off I toddled across the damp grass of the valley. I only did 0.68 miles, but I really did not want to stray far from home in case I had to limp back.

The good thing is that I was out. This is the first run in ages.

I neeeeeeeeed to run!!!

2009-04-08T15:43:00.002+01:00

Still in pain, but can't wait to get out and run again. Also need to practise my footie skills.This is sooooo frustrating!! Don't want to do anything too soon in case I do more damage. Slowly slowly catchy monkey!!

Back Pain - is my Olympic career over??

2009-04-06T11:14:00.002+01:00

Well, I didn't get to run per se again this week, but I have spent 3 and a half hours running about playing football this weekend, which I reckon is pretty darn sporty in anyone's book.This also accounts for the fact that my back is absolute agony and I can hardly walk. Ah well.... the price of fame...

The early bird .... doesn't have to run at lunchtime.

2009-04-03T13:27:00.003+01:00

I am pleased to announce that I got up at 6am and went running today. I had an early night and hawled myself out of bed to put on my kit, which has been waiting, all laid out, for a day or 2 now. The morning was cold and misty, but not too dark and I actually ran for longer than has been usual.

Unfortunately the old Nike+Ipod thingy had given up the ghost because it had been forced to wait for so long so I have no proof of my endeavours, but hey, such is life.

The birds were out in full force today - I heard chaffinches, blackbirds, the usual wood pigeons and also the tapping of a woodpecker in the trees. I feel so much better for being out and although the initial getting up is hard the actual run was lovely. I must run again this week... before m'footie!!

Man on... on yer 'ed, son....pass the jolly old ball, old girl...

2009-04-02T20:00:00.004+01:00

sturdy legs and ponytails...

I have stood on countless touchlines in my time and watched thousands of man hours of football.I could tell you the offside rule and talk you through a step over.I have washed stinky football kit and cleaned muddy football boots. I have cheered when my men won their matches and consoled when they lost. But I have never dreamed of actually playing football myself....until now.

I cannot quite believe it, but I have succumbed to the call of the beautiful game and the invitation of a local ladies team, and I will be playing this Sunday!! I would imagine that I will be rather girly, afraid of the ball and probably pretty rubbish - but you never know... I will borrow my husband's shin pads and football socks and put on some sort of trouser that will prevent astro turf burns. I refuse point blank to wear anything that resembles the shiny sweaty nylonness of a proper football shirt.

women's football in the olden days!

If you can't beat 'em join 'em...
So. Watch this space for my first match report. Sunday... Secret Housewife plays footie...

Watch out world... here I come!!!

2009-04-01T23:17:00.002+01:00

Right... I seem to have slipped into a lull. This has been caused by various things including a bad back, a cold, a sore achilles. But to be honest... how lame is that??

So, inspired by the gorgeous sunshine today, the comments from Chuck who is now following me and the thought of a 5k race in a little while, I am determined to run more this week. I have also been invited to play in a womens football team!! So I will have to get fit for that.

It is sooooo easy to fall out of the way of running, but I will not let it happen. Watch out world... here I come!!

Runs this week Monday 23rd March - Sunday 29th March 2009

2009-04-01T23:14:00.001+01:00

Runs this week ... 1 ( woeful)
Mileage this week ... is it worth mentioning?? about 1.12 miles
Mileage this year ... 44.3 miles

Come on , girl... get on with it.

2009-03-23T14:17:00.002Z

When my alarm woke me up this morning I was in dire need of about 3 more hours sleep, but gamely I struggled up and out to work. The weather today was cold, windy, promising rain, but I had promised myself that I would run. So I did.

The one good thing about my poor efforts at the moment is that I am actually getting out there. Better to do something than nothing, I say. And, although this may sound pretty lame, I am finding that the old bod is falling to pieces slightly. I think it may be that I'm overweight, but there are constant niggles... my achilles, my back, my knee. Nothing too dire, but always just there.

Trust me, if you are out there and run like a Spring lamb with no thought of aches, pains or any other such grumbles... make the most of it!!

So, todays run... just over a mile and I had to walk a bit too.Possibly had something to do with the marmite toast and chocolate brownie I had lumping about in my tummy. I am getting to the stage where a diet might happen!! Still, I enjoyed the blustery wind and avoided any falling trees. I just need to run a couple more times this week.

Runs for week Monday 16th March - Sunday 22nd March

2009-03-23T14:16:00.001Z

runs this week ... 1
mileage this week ... 2.6 miles
mileage this year ... 43.17 miles

Well, that's a good start to the week!!

2009-03-16T14:27:00.004Z

Had a rubbish week as far as running goes last week. But, hey, I've learned that that's the way the cookie crumbles. You just have to mark it down and keep on running the next week!

So, here we are on the next week. Its Monday, its glorious sunny weather and I was out and at 'em as soon as I'd finished work. I put on my new white vest that I got for my birthday and off I went. I followed my nose and had a lovely run/walk. My left ankle/achilles is a bit tender so I am being careful. I did enjoy myself immensely and feel set up for the round of taxi service mum to come this evening!

runs this week Monday 9th March - Sunday 15th March 2009

2009-03-16T14:24:00.002Z

Runs this week...1
Mileage this week... 1.22
Mileage this year...40.57

Run on 12th March...squeezed in...

2009-03-16T14:22:00.001Z

I managed to sneak out and do a quick 1.2 miles this evening. Really needed it as I felt wound up. Came back feeling revived!

1st run at 45.

2009-03-06T18:12:00.003Z

For the first time in years I didn't do any exercise on my birthday this week.I had a nice day, but that is the last time I don't get out and do something - walk, bike, run, anything. Still, that was then. Today is now and I have just come back from a quick run.

I really did not feel like going out, but am glad I did. I think sometimes not going out for a while stops you from going out at all.So I have only done 1 run this week, but I still have the weekend.I am hormonal at the moment. I feel down and lacking in confidence. The run was my first step to ending that feeling.It hasn't worked so far, but hopefully a hot shower and some stiff talking to myself will!

Ho hum.

Runs this week...Monday 23rd February - Sunday 1st March 2009.

2009-03-01T22:32:00.001Z

runs this week ..... 2
mileage this week ..... 4.11
mileage this year ..... 39.35

5k Race for British Heart Foundation.

2009-03-01T20:43:00.006Z

photos of runners coming in behind me ( yes, there were some!!)

I had signed up to run 10k today , but my training has taken longer than planned and I am not fit enough to run that far comfortably. I could probably do it if my life depended on it, but it didn't today so I opted for the 5k.

The race was around the park of a stately home, to raise money for Heart Disease... or rather to prevent heart disease.It was very hilly... probably not in the sense that fell runners would understand hilly, but certainly in the sense that quite unfit housewives understand the word!! So I walked the uphill bits and ran the flat and downhill bits. I even found myself overtaking on the downhill, due to my loping stride, making full use of gravity!

My running career has now reached the stage where I take a camera with me when I go out and today was no different. I was glad I had as there were herds of deer along the way that I snapped. All in all a very pleasant way to spend 38 minutes. My Nike+Ipod thingy says it took me longer, but that would be because I forgot to turn it off when I crossed the finish line!!

I now am the proud owner of another t-shirt... this time bright red... and a medal. Hurrah!!!

First run this week ... slotted in.

2009-02-23T23:18:00.002Z

Luckily running does not require masses of equipment and time. It just needs you to put on your kit and get out of the door. Today I had a window of about 40 minutes so I went out and did just over a mile. It is so hilly around here that I seem to walk on the uppy bits more than I would like... but hey.... I'm out, I'm running 3 times a week... what more do you want ??!!

Oh, and in a week I have a race !!

Runs this week...Monday 16th February - Sunday 22nd February 2009

2009-02-23T23:16:00.001Z

runs this week..... 3
mileage this week ..... 6.45
mileage this year ..... 35.24

Run for a mile... feel better all day.

2009-02-20T20:00:00.001Z

I had a busy day ahead of me today, with family coming over for lunch,so I went for an earlyish run. Just a short one, but it was nice to get out and fill my lungs with fresh air. Today it felt as if Spring was trying to arrive...

Running... cheaper than therapy!!

2009-02-18T18:58:00.003Z

I wasn't sure if I would be able to run today, but I did. I had a lovely one, longer than usual and very liberating! My mileage is slowly creeping up... slowly being the operative word.I am not interested in doing massive mileage, but if I could plateau at an easy 10 miles per week, that would be great.

I took Gail's advice and used my run to rid myself of all my frustrations. I came home feeling far more chilled.Cheaper than therapy!!

Snowdrop run...

2009-02-16T13:43:00.006Z

across the cricket pitch

snowdrops

close up of snowdrops

I didn't run as much last week, probably because I knew I could fit more in this week as I am on holiday. I am enjoying taking my camera out and stopping to take pictures so the speed doesn't really count that much. I have joined a challenge on Nike+Ipod to run the length of Route 66 in the US. So far I am in 106th place!!! I have to complete by 2012 so I have some time!!

This morning was very mild. I had to strip off a layer half way round. I am getting stronger and although I still stop for walk breaks my legs feel stronger and I feel generally fitter... always a good thing!

Today I saw my first snow drops of the year and luckily could stop to take photos, along with some other views of my route.

Runs this week... Monday 9th February - Sunday 15th February 2009

2009-02-16T13:41:00.001Z

runs this week...2
mileage this week.....3.79
mileage this year.....28.79

Running with dogs...

2009-02-14T16:47:00.003Z

I tore myself away from the computer to run this afternoon.I went on one of my old routes that I haven't been on for ages.I ran to meet my Man who was playing football and really enjoyed it. I managed 2.3 miles and met a nice lady with her 3 dogs. I am not a dog lover , in fact I am quite scared of them. When I run and come across any I tend to stop or at least walk so they don't chase me. I think she appreciated the fact that I walked and she smiled and said "We have to work together on this, don't we?!"

So, I am now back and about to clean my house and make steak for dinner. A nice evening with my family awaits!

My 100th Nike+Ipod thingy Run !!

2009-02-12T17:56:00.002Z

Gosh! I thought I'd run a bit further today as it was my 100th run with my Nike +Ipod thingy. And blow me down if I didn't run less than usual!! There I was, pounding the pavements, trying hard, adding what I thought were extra bits... and I wasn't at all. I ended up only running 1.47 miles.There must be some sort of mistake, surely??

Never mind... I enjoyed it and hopefully ran off some of the pork pie I'd had for lunch!!

Runs this week Monday 2nd February - Sunday 8th February 2009

2009-02-09T18:23:00.001Z

runs this week .....3
mileage this week .....6.2 ( better )
mileage this year ..... 25

Secret Housewife... the running woman movie!!

2009-02-08T15:19:00.004Z

I decided to film where I run today so you could see what it looks like for real!! As Gail commented yesterday it really does feel like all my negativity is dropping away when I run. Although, at the moment, its difficult to run properly because of the snow and ice, it is still brilliant to be out. I have never uploaded a video before so it will be interesting to see what it looks like!!

I only ran just under 2 miles, but it all counts, eh??

The slippery slope to happiness!!

2009-02-07T19:06:00.002Z

I was itching to get out and run today. I was a little worried because the conditions are making it difficult - some paths are clear, some are icy and some are snowy or slushy. Still, I decided that getting out was important, whether I ran or walked.

I had a brilliant run in the end... a lot of walking because of the slipperiness, but some running too. I took my camera again, as you can see. Its the first time in ages ( these last few runs ) that I have not felt under pressure to run, just a real enjoyment that I thought I had lost. I feel alive and alert and very fortunate to be able to get out there. Excellent!!

Running in the snow....perfect!!!

2009-02-03T12:03:00.009Z

I absolutely love the snow!!! I woke up this morning and the sky was blue, the sun was shining and the snow was still there!! I pulled on all my running gear - well, not all of it, but enough to keep me warm, and off I went.It was a very slow run because I took my camera and stopped often to take photos. I wish I had taken film now of me puffing along - maybe next time, eh??

I love running on virgin snow - it brings out the child in me. There's just such a great feeling, running through powdery, sparkly snow that is pristine and perfect. Wonderful.

Runs this week...Monday 26th January to Sunday 1st February 2009

2009-02-01T22:34:00.001Z

runs this week..... 3
mileage this week..... 3.4 ( pants)
mileage this year..... 18.95

So much running to do... so little time!!!

2009-02-01T22:29:00.004Z

I managed to go out for a measly 16 minutes today. It was impossible to do any more as hubby was not around to look after the boys and I felt guilty going out. I know that's silly, but I just can't run if I'm thinking that I should be home, or should be doing something else.

So it means that my mileage has, yet again, gone down instead of up. Aaaaaaahhhhh!!!!! Next week will be different... starting tomorrow. Its snowing heavily at the moment, but I will go out tomorrow, come what may!

Green Day and ice.... an excellent way to run...

2009-01-31T18:58:00.003Z

I was so full of frustration today that I was desperate to run.You can see why on my other blog ( the link is below right). I didn't think I'd get to go out... but I did. I ran 1.29 miles with an average pace of 12.58. This is a massive improvement on what I have been running. You see... going out, even for such short distances, works. As long as you go out regularly.

It was fantastic to run as fast as I could, with Green Day blasting in my ears and the icy air flooding into my lungs. Just wonderful. All my feelings of pent up frustration and anger were left behind on the cold pavements.

And as a reward from Nike+Ipod thingy for keeping my January target I got to pimp up my mini me!! How cool is that? How sad is my life?? Actually, this running lark is making me happy. Now I need to find the time to go out tomorrow!

Amazing news!! Record for the mile smashed!!!

2009-01-28T16:51:00.002Z

I managed to get out for a quick 1.3 miles today. It seems weird that only a year ago, well, less than that, a mile would have seemed like a day off, a walk in the park!! Now I am chuffed to have run most of it and smashed my average pace !! Lance Armstrong came on the old Nike+ Ipod thingy and said " Congratulations! You just beat your record for the mile!! " Like I just ran a 6 minute jobby.... actually it was 13.05, but hey.... I am glad.

It was quite wet out, but I like that. And I love the feeling of my lungs and heart being woken up by the cold air being forced in. Excellent... must now go and text my sister in law, who has just taken up running. We each text after a run and it encourages the other to keep going. Girl power and all that !!

Runs this week - Monday 19th January - Sunday 25th January

2009-01-25T16:45:00.001Z

runs this week ....... 2
mileage this week ....... 3.55 miles
mileage this year ....... 15.55 miles

26 minutes of "me " time..... lovely.

2009-01-25T16:37:00.003Z

I am now hot sweaty and thoroughly happy. I have dinner in the oven, my husband downstairs playing with the boys, my laundry done and 26 minutes of running time under my belt today!

Its been raining most of the day, but by the time I got out it had stopped.I felt quite heavy today, but pushed myself and although I ended up not doing the route I had planned, I still was out for longer than has been my norm. It felt good to be out for some "me" time. I also seemed to have run a teensy bit faster. I know it doesn't matter, but for my own pride I like to see my times getting faster.

I am thinking on the whole that this time the running is for a long time. Not just for the marathon, but the rest of my life - a way to be fit both physically and emotionally. No point killing myself - I just want to enjoy it. And I am.

What a busy week for a running girl!

2009-01-24T16:45:00.002Z

This week has been a nightmare for running. A combination of a very busy life, tiredness and illness has cut my running short.

Monday I set my alarm for 6am to go out and only woke up at 7.45, when I had slept through the beeping like a dead person. Work and responsibilities kept me busy until Thursday when I felt sick and knackered and went to bed at 5.30pm.So, today was the day. I got up and put my kit on straight away so as not to have any excuses. After doing Tesco and laundry and all the rest of that palaver I found a space.

I went out for 26 minutes and thoroughly enjoyed myself.The sky was blue, without a cloud, despite it being January and 4pm. I ran and walked and tried to push myself, while at the same time enjoying the countryside sights and smells.

Lovely. And hopefully I will find time tomorrow too.

Runs this week... Mon 12th January - Sun 18th January 2009

2009-01-18T22:37:00.001Z

runs this week.... 3
mileage this week... 3.5 miles
mileage this year... 11.5 miles

3 runs... that's ok.

2009-01-18T22:26:00.002Z

I ran up to the school playing fields today,taking the short way over the field. I thought it would be about 2 miles, but no, it was just over 1 mile! Oh, well.At least I am running. This week has been so busy and I reckon next week will be busier. The main thing is to keep going out, keep doing it.Yes.

Run number 2 and a mauve mini me !!!

2009-01-17T17:56:00.002Z

I have been so busy this week that this is only my 2nd run. I plan to go out tomorrow to make it 3 runs this week. Still enjoying it and have now created a mini me for my nike= ipod thingy, as you can see on the right hand side!! I don't really have purple hair, but would love too!!

I am so slow, but that just gives me time to admire the view... doesn't it !!

Just a quickie!!

2009-01-13T22:15:00.003Z

I worked all day and came home to make a quick tea for the troops before we had to head off to son#1 's football training. I found myself with 45 minutes spare !

So... I put on my gear, ran a mile, came home, ate a baked potato and drove to training. I am pleased to report that I am loving running. I look forward to my runs and am finding it an essential stress buster. Those times when I am out in the cold... be it early morning, evening or midday... are wonderful.

My head is far more organised and I feel happier in general. Its just great to have some time for me - and I am not feeling the pressure of having to get miles in. If I want to run 1 mile I do. I don't feel that I have to do 5. Yes, this is a good thing.

Runs this week...

2009-01-11T16:30:00.001Z

Runs this week 5th January - 11th January 2009

4 runs
just over 8 miles.
this year's mileage 8 miles.

A family run in the woods.

2009-01-11T16:19:00.002Z

We decided to go running as a family today - my Man, my 2 boys and I. There are woods 2 minutes away from our house, at the end of our road, so we all put on our layers of warm clothes, our hats and gloves and off we went.

Despite at first suffering from the throes of pre-teenage " I can't do this! I'm a rubbish runner ! " we all settled down to a lovely run - just following our noses through the mud and leaves. We took turns to be the leader, which proved to be quite a good idea.

In the end we all ran just over 3 miles according to the Garmin. The Nike Ipod + thingy wasn't quite as accurate, but I took it along so it would download the proof that I ran onto this site ! All in all it was very enjoyable, and we met some friends out walking their dog, so stopped for a chat. It wasn't fast by any means, but I do love the woods and I am sure the hills did us all good !

A frosty morning run.

2009-01-10T12:19:00.002Z

The ground was so hard with frost today that the boys' football was cancelled. Yippeee!! This meant that I could go running as opposed to standing on a touchline.I donned all my layers and off I went.

A beautiful cold morning so I followed my nose, with my Ipod Nike+ thingy on, through the little bit of woods by the cricket pitch, down the road, up the hill. ALL LOVELY. I ran for 37 minutes, of which probably 7 was walking. It is brilliant to be out again and, for the first time in ages I am enjoying it and looking forward to my runs.

The Marathon training really took it out of me... more than I realised at the time and I am slowly getting back into being a runner. Can I call myself a runner ? I suppose I can because I run, but I don't think I will ever truly see myself as a runner. Now that the marathon is done I want to concentrate on me, my fitness, both physical and emotional, and on doing this for pleasure.

I am going to enter some races this year, but no further than 10k. That is a distance I enjoy and can do without too much trauma when I am fit. This is good !

Another run ? What's happening ??

2009-01-08T18:34:00.001Z

Yes, I came home from work, pulled my gear on, had a row with my husband and went for a run. Not long, not far, but a run and my body really enjoyed it. My head was way off in the land of " Just had a row, feel miserable " but at least, although miserable I am getting fit...

I did it !! 6.20 am and I was running !!

2009-01-06T20:11:00.002Z

I am soooo pleased !! My alarm went off at 6am and instead of rolling over and going back to sleep I got up and pulled on my ready prepared running clothes ( several layers I might add ) and was out the door by 6.20am.

It was freezing ( literally ) with snow on the ground, and dark. It felt wonderful to be out and about, filling my lungs with frosty air, when most other people were still in their cosy beds. My pesky ipod had needed charging so I have no proof of my endeavours, but you have my word !!

I ran just over a mile and was back well before 7am. Good Lord !! A day off tomorrow and then I shall go out again on Thursday. So far so good !!

Running on a frosty morning... and happy !!

2009-01-04T10:15:00.002Z

It was hard to get out of bed this morning. I had set the alarm for 8am as my Man is working today and if I didn't drag my lazy carcass out of bed to run early, the chance would be gone. I slept so well last night... the best in ages, and could easily have stayed in bed all morning. However, I showed admirable grit and determination and out I clambered.

After a glass of fruit juice I set off into the frosty morning. Hat on, gloves on,ipod and nike + thingy on. I have learned that gloves are an essential for winter running... its amazing how cold you can feel if your hands are cold, and , of course, they are if you are waving them about in the cold air. I only wear a hat if I'm running for a long time in the reasonable cold or if its very cold, or if I am uncertain. You can get very hot in a hat, but I'd rather be toasty and put it in my pocket after a while than be chilly.

So, I ran with my music on. I am extremely slow, but hopefully this will improve as I lose weight and get fitter. I ran ( with a little bit of walking ) for 19 minutes and felt pretty good. The test will be this week as I go back to work and have to run in the early mornings. We shall see...

p.s have found a good photo site. usually I use my own photos as much as possible, but sometimes I trawl Google images. This site freefoto.com provides great photos for all sorts of themes free of charge as long as you mention them and are using the photos for your blog or something similar. Why not have a look ?

Jan 2nd - run number one of 2009.

2009-01-02T16:58:00.003Z

I received a text from my sister in law, who has never run before last Tuesday, to say that she had gone out for 10 minutes around the rugby pitch. Well, if she can do it, so can I !! Despite the fact that I can barely walk, due to a " cornflake packet game " Christmas injury ( don't ask !! ) I went out over the field with my Garmin on and ran for 11.47 minutes. Running seems to be much more comfortable than walking or sitting, so that's a relief!!

I made sure that I stretched well when I came back and I have to say that I now feel pretty good.Its a long journey ahead of me to regain my fitness, but I just have to get out there and do it !! Yes, I know you've read it all before, but I am going to do this. I feel as though I am getting a bit of the old enjoyment back and that is great!! I am also loving my yellow jacket... what do you reckon ??How can a girl not run when she has that in her wardrobe ??!

Christmas Run.

2008-12-31T12:07:00.003Z

I went for a fab run yesterday. It was the annual mince pie and mulled wine run - a combination of 3k, 5k and 10k runs... you can choose whichever you like. I chose the 3k as I am so fit and have the body mass of a medium sized blue whale to lug about!! Towards the end my right knee started to feel a bit odd, but I really enjoyed the run. I couldn't run the whole thing, but did my best The countryside was glorious and what really made it special was running it with my Man and 2 boys. They did actually steam ahead and come in hours before me, but it was lovely to know they were there.

I was given a fluorescent yellow running jacket for Christmas so I am hoping to do some early morning running. What do you reckon ? At the moment I seem to be averaging 1 run a month.... pathetic !! I have to get fit again...

Here I go again...

2008-11-23T12:56:00.002Z

Through all the weeks of not running there is a little voice, deep and distant in my head, calling " Go running! You must not give up ! " This morning that voice was calling even louder than usual - to the extent that I could no longer roll over in bed and ignore it. So, despite the weather, or maybe because of it, I donned my kit and ventured outside.

This morning it was very cold with snow on the ground and a steady sleety rain. Perfect !! I must be some sort of masochist because I actually really enjoy weather like this. There is something lovely about pacing the streets when everyone else is tucked up in their warm houses. I feel more alive.

Of course, having run very little since the summer ( you can see how rarely by my lack of posts on here ) I am very unfit. But I was happy to be outside. I love the feeling of my heart and lungs reawakening and I am so lucky to be able to go running.

Now, my next step is to actually go out again this week, and not leave it another month !

Just run old girl... just run.

2008-10-25T11:51:00.003+01:00

Today is the first time I've run in ages. Months. I changed into my running kit, went into the bathroom ... and was shocked by how different I look compared to the last time I was in running gear. I have put on so much weight. What a shame.

Still, there was nothing else I could have done. Life is life... I just have not felt like running at all. The main thing is that I have been out today. That's what counts. I ran for 1.27 miles. Not much, I know, but a start.

I was pleased really that I could actually run as much as I did, considering the first half was uphill. Now I need to make sure I go out again soon.

And now... the start is near...

2008-09-28T11:58:00.002+01:00

I am going through a crisis. I have not run for a long time and I know that I am right back to ground zero... unfit, fat, unmotivated. I did swim a couple of weeks ago and really enjoyed it.. 50 lengths, alternating between front crawl and breast stroke.

I then, 2 days later, developed bursitis( a painful inflammation of the shoulder bursa ) Whether this had anything to do with the swimming I'll never know. Still, I have spent the last 2 weeks feeling sorry for myself, in pain and unable to dress by myself, never mind go for a run/ walk/ swim.

Part of me is furious that I am doing no exercise. Part of me is enjoying the laziness of being able to read, write, watch tv, go shopping. Part of me is still, despite doing the marathon last year, a little fat girl who is convinced that she is useless and will never be good at running or any sport.

I know that the results of the 2009 Flora London Marathon ballot are out very soon and if.... if I am in... that spells 6 months of incredible work. 4 times a week, running through rain, hail snow and darkness. If I am in I will do it. If I am not ? I don't know what I'll do. Part of me sooooo wants to be in - to stop this relentless eating and sloth. But I am lacking in self confidence so much. Its ridiculous that at the age of 44 I am still bothered by all this rubbish.

Why can I not just get on and enjoy ?? Nobody expects me to be Kelly Holmes... they just appreciate the hard work I have put in and the money raised for charity. But I am embarrassed by being a short fat housewife, plodding along the pavements. I thought that doing the marathon would rid me of my fears, but it has not.

I need a good kick up the proverbial.

Can I do this ?

2008-08-21T23:31:00.003+01:00

Well, its been a while since I've run, what with being on my hols, but today I went out. Just a couple of miles. I felt a bit wheezy to start with, but ignored it and it went away. After a mile and a bit my right knee started to be sore. It felt like when I was training for FLM - the right quad does something odd and makes my right knee hurt. If I stop and stretch the quad then the knee is fine. Its just a pain to have to keep stretching it. If you have any ideas then I'd love some help ??!!

I did have a down feeling today. I can't believe that only 4 months ago I was looking at runs of 7 - 10 miles as short easy ones !! Now I can't do 2 without my knee going !! Still, I know that its a case of slowly slowly catchy monkey and the improvement will come - I just have to do the work.

Not long now - October - and I'll find out if I'm in the FLM again. I have to lose some weight if I am going to be able to run better. So, I shall try. I need to cut out fat and eat more fruit, veg, etc. Its all about the mental side of things. If I feel positive mentally then I find everything so much easier. Its easy to let my negative thoughts overwhelm me, but I can't let that happen. This is not about me being an elite athlete - its about being fit, healthy and doing the best I can for as long as I can.

Mad dogs and Englishwomen...

2008-07-30T19:06:00.001+01:00

When you get the urge to run you need to sieze it. And my urge arrived at midday today. I grabbed hold of it and ran off into the heat of the day. I actually rather enjoyed myself and managed to run for most of it. I came back sweaty but happy. I just need to keep on running. Keep going. I can do this !!

Daily Plod...

2008-07-24T15:55:00.002+01:00

I was siezed by a desire to run this morning.The weather was hot, but I took the plunge and plodded off down the road. I could feel my knee and my right achilles was a bit tender, but they don't call me Ironman Ariss for nothing, you know... Actually they don't call me that at all, as the chances of me ever doing an Ironman are slim to nil... But they do call me Tigger sometimes and true to my name I bounded off down the road.

I didn't bound off absolutely immediately as " our song " was on the I-Pod and I delayed to have a quick " slow dance " with me hubby in the kitchen before I left... If you can have a " Quick " slow dance.

Anyway, suffice to say that I ran, I sweated, I didn't give up, I arrived back home not long after setting off, but felt quite noble from my efforts. When your belly is starting to spread ominously you just have to keep on plodding...

Wycombe Half Marathon Drop Out...

2008-07-20T22:15:00.002+01:00

Much as I wanted to lie in my bed this morning... I did not. I pulled on my shorts, vest and Garmin and off I plodded for the Half Marathon. It started well enough and I thought... Goodness, I'm not right at the back. But then I reached Mile 1 and realised that, yes, I was at the back. In fact, for the first time ever I was the last runner.

This would not have been all bad as the marshalls were lovely and I seemed to be getting lots of cheers and encouragement from the spectators ( God Bless you all !! ) But my knee started to go a bit doo lally and I decided to quit. I wasn't as bothered as I would have been a few years ago. I just thought that it was better to drop out than risk real damage. So I dropped out... and went home and after a big roast lunch I went to bed for an hour.

There. My athletics career on a plate.

Half Marathon

2008-07-19T12:29:00.005+01:00

Tomorrow I am supposed to be running a Half Marathon. I say supposed because although I have my number, my safety pins, my lycra and my trainers..... I don't really have the will power or the body.

I really believed that running the Marathon would miraculously transform me into a confident runner, confident person ... but, alas, I am still filled with insecurities. I know that speed doesn't matter, weight doesn't matter... all that matters is having the guts to get out there. But right now my image of myself is an image of fat, old, ugly, useless. My running is not easy at the moment and I seem to be on a mission to self destruct with my eating.

My thought is to follow my run 5 /walk 1 strategy and do the race tomorrow the best I can. There should be less self pity in my life and more of the thoughts of Edward Monkton :

Two's company...

2008-06-30T19:55:00.002+01:00

I went out running with my neighbour today. She is just starting running again and we had arranged to go out together. She only wanted to go out for 15 minutes, so we did. Well, actually we did 17, but hey ! It was good fun - she is taller than me and lopes along with her long legs so I have to scurry along to keep up !! We chatted and I really enjoyed her company ( as I always do !!)

Run # 2

2008-06-28T11:30:00.002+01:00

Well, thank goodness. I have doubled my running performance on last week. Which is just as well because I have been downing large quantities of nosh like eating is about to go out of fashion!! My tummy feels like this...

...and is mainly filled with garlic doughy balls and chilli prawns. But at least I am still running. Of course it is difficult with a belly like this....but, despite m'lycra riding up over m'blubbery expanse I am keeping it up. The running. I even did my first mile quite quickly today. My neighbour has started running and I am looking forward to when we can run together. Not long, I reckon.

I found myself thinking today that now I've done the Marathon maybe I don't need to push myself so manically ( yeah right, hardly Lance Armstrong am I ??) I could actually just run 10 miles a week, 6 miles a week and be happy ??

Excellent News !!

2008-06-23T19:58:00.002+01:00

So , today I came home from work, ate my lunch, watched Bargain Hunt and weighed up the pros and cons of going out for a run. My bed looked sooooooooooo inviting and I pondered for a moment the idea of just sleeping for an hour. But then I remembered that running does actually wake you up and give you some vim and verve....... so I pulled on m'lycra and off I went.

I ran without Garmin, without Ipod and just ran where I wanted to. I was out for about 40 minutes and it was lovely. Not easy all the time, but enjoyable. And a beautiful day too.... sunny and hot , but cool in the shade with a slight breeze.

I got home and as I ran the shower, realised that there was no hot water !! Thanks Hubby !! I girded my loins and jumped in. OH MY GOD !!!! An exercise in breathing control or what ?? Still, I emerged rapidly, all clean and smelling fragrant, if a little goosepimply !!

Aren't I a good girl ??

Difficult times...

2008-06-22T13:32:00.002+01:00

I am finding it increasingly difficult to go running.I am booked into a Half Marathon in July and the chances of me being able to run it are slim. What a huge shame.I just cannot make myself go out that often. After 8 months of running 4 times a week and dedicating myself totally to the cause of running the London Marathon I am now in a lull.

Part of me is appalled with myself for being so lazy and unmotivated and another part is just enjoying doing other things .... going shopping, reading, relaxing... People have told me that the marathon really takes it out of you and I can see that it does - emotionally as well as physically. I have run once this week, and I suppose I forgive myself that due to the hugely busy week it has been. My plan is to run tomorrow.

I plan to run with music and just spend some time enjoying myself... just running and rejoicing in the fact that I can run. I can run and I have run the London Marathon this year. I don't have to beat myself up about it. I am a bit of a perfectionist and I need to realise that I have no Paula Radcliffe type goals to meet. I am a 44 year old housewife and my running is something to be done as enjoyment, for my health and because I can.

The most important thing is to keep ticking over, keep being happy. If I push myself until running becomes a chore then I may well give up forever and that would be awful. I want to be still running when I am 70 !! I have a 10k to look forward to in September and that's a distance I really enjoy.

So, that's the plan. Wish me luck !!

5k Race for Life 2008

2008-06-10T20:04:00.002+01:00

Last week I was soooooo bored with running. I am finding it difficult to get out and have no motivation. I had booked myself in to a Race for Life 5k, but really didn't want to do it. My first Race for Life was about 7 years ago. 2 of my friends and I had lost lots of weight - 8 stone between us ( that's 112 pounds ) and we walked round the 5k course. I remember at the time saying to my friends that I wanted to be able to jog around the course the following year.
The next year came and I did jog round !!

And here I am 7 years later with lots of 5k races under my belt, along with about 8 10k s, 2 half marathons, 4 Moon Walks ( 26.2 miles power walking ) and, of course, the Flora London Marathon. But last Saturday night I didn't feel like running.

Still, as Sunday morning dawned, I cooked my porridge, drank my water and pulled on my running kit. I smothered myself in sun cream and set off to the park. As usual for these events it was full of women of all shapes and sizes - old, young, fat, thin, and everything inbetween. The one thing we all had in common was that we were women and we were going to get round 5k to raise money for Cancer Research.

I went to the front of the crowd and off we set. It was hot and sticky, but I pushed myself hard. I just had to walk at some stages, but only for 50 seconds or so. For the first time in my running life I was not aware of the people at the Finish. All I wanted to do was get home as fast as I could. By home I mean the Finish Line. I pushed and pushed and can't really remember the end. All I know is that I grabbed my water, drank half and poured the rest over my head !

I broke 35 minutes, which is good for me this year - I've been doing 36+. And I was glad to have run. It again reminded me of why I run. And as I lay on the grass I watched the countless women still walking, still running - all doing their utmost to reach the Finish. All have their own story. I have come such a long way since my first 5k all that time ago and I plan to keep on going. Better, stronger, faster...

Here she comes...

2008-05-18T20:46:00.002+01:00

Today was an athletic day for the family !! I took both my boys to this race and registered them to run the 2k. Off they set like real speedy athletes and I couldn't believe my eyes when just over 9 minutes later son #1 ran round the corner to finish a brilliant 21st !! Son #2 came in 2 minutes later. Pretty darn good for a 10 and 8 year old eh ?? I was one proud mum !!!

I set off for my 10k a little while later with the ambition of running all the way if possible, but certainly to beat last year's time of 1hour 25 minutes.I hadn't run for ages at this time last year and struggled to run.

I felt much better this year and ran well. I did have to walk 5 times, but for no more than 55 seconds at a time. The course was through beautiful countryside - a little hilly at times, but generally lovely. One water station half way with lots of water ( thank goodness, after last week !)

My 2 boys joined me to run with me for the last 500 metres which was soooooo lovely !! Their own idea too !! I ended up running in with a smile on my face and my lovely friends cheering me ( they had stayed to see me in !! ) with a time of 1 hour 14 minutes. I was pleased with that.
All in all a jolly good day !!

Hot, hot, hot !!!

2008-05-12T19:36:00.002+01:00

Goodness me, its hot running at the moment. Having spent the winter pounding the streets, longing for the warmth of the sun on my skin, as soon as it arrives I don't really like it !!!
I ran the Marlow 5 mile yesterday, which is a nice little race through the streets of Marlow in Bucks. I was very nervous beforehand - full of " Why am I doing this ? I am rubbish at running. Its too hot. I am too fat... blah, blah, blah " I do ask myself why I am doing this. I am never going to be a great runner, but when I do run and it goes well it is such a marvelous feeling. It is a battle with myself most of the time, and I have to remember that I will never get any better if I don't at least try.

I wanted to pull out, but knew that this was a test. If I pulled out of this one I would pull out of next Sunday and so on and so on. So off I went. There was the usual " being overtaken " by lots of people, but then I setteled into my pace. My legs felt strong threoughout, but my cardiovascular doodah is rubbish. I think the "run/walk " thing has got my body into the habit of giving up every 5 minutes.

Still, I kept running and didn't walk until nearly 3 miles. By this time I was sooooooo hot and was longing for the water station. When I got to it they had practically run out of water. I had to stand and wait whilst they poured half a cup out. I did feel for them as they obviously felt terrible about it, but I felt more for the poor people behind me who may not have got any.
The good people of Marlow, however, did themselves proud as families stood outside their houses with jugs of cold water and cups. One kind soul even sprayed me with water as I ran by.
As the race went on I had to resort to walking quite a bit, which annoyed me, but I just couldn't run all the way. I made sure that my walks were no more than 60 seconds at a time.

As I neared the end I ran and I was pleased that my legs felt good. There is some speed in there somewhere. I think if I practise running and not walking I have to get faster !! There was a lovely American man at the entrance to the park where the Finish was. He had run his race and was shouting encouragement " Come on !!! Kick for it !!! Kick for it !!! " I love people like that. I felt spurred on and ran with a big smile to the end.

A big thank you to all the faster runners who stayed to cheer us slowies on and to the Marshalls who cheered too. I finished about 1546th out of 1586 runners who finished ( approx. ) I was so glad that I did it and didn't chicken out and must now gird my loins for Sunday and my 10k.

What now ??

2008-05-08T19:47:00.002+01:00

Well, what now indeed ? Its all very well declaring that you're going to run and run and become some snap dolly lean mean running machine.... its a different thing faced with the reality of being a 44 year old housewife with a leaning towards the short and plump. There's not a lot I can do about the short, but I can do something about the plump which is where the running comes in. Only trouble is.... I've just done a marathon and am in " recovery " !!!

Still, since the 13th April I have been out 5 times. My longest run was 4.5 miles and the shortest 2.2 miles. I have felt lethargic and without focus, but at least I have been going out. The good news is that I can feel my muscles energy starting to come back. Where as at the end of the marathon training I had not an ounce of vigour, now I can put on a turn of speed. Although to be honest you could do me under the trade descriptions act when I say "speed ".

Now, this weekend I have race booked. Its 5 miles, flat and pleasant. I hope that I can gird my loins and get out there and do myself proud. By that I mean that I don't want to come in last...or if I do then I want to be able to say that I ran all the way and did my best.

That's what it comes down to really isn't it ? Just doing your best. Whether you are Paula Radcliffe or ...... me. The good thing now the marathon is over is that I can go out and really enjoy my runs. It doesn't actually matter if I run 1 mile or 10.

As I was coming back over the field the other day and feeling, to be honest, a little down in the mouth, a young boy of about 7 or 8 came through the hedge carrying his cricket bat and stumps. I smiled hello and to my amazement he chirped up " Saw you back down the road... nice running ! " You could have knocked me down with a feather. I gasped " Thanks mate !" and as I jogged down the path the hot tears pricked my eyes. I know I'm a soppy old bird, but that little fella made me feel really special.

Where to now ???

2008-04-20T19:06:00.004+01:00

So, what do I do now ?? I have run my Marathon, got my medal... I could just sit back on my laurels and practise being a couch potato..... but that's not really me. I think what I will do is... keep on running !! I am going to try to be a better runner. I know my limitations and I know that I will never be a great runner - I will probably never be a good runner, but I can try to be the best I can be.

The lovely thing about this blog is the way people who are just starting out running have found it and they can see that if a little ploddy housewife can train and run a marathon - then so can they !! Running is for everyone. All you have to do is put one foot infront of the other - and whether you run/walk or run like Paula Radcliffe, as long as you are out there its a good thing.

So, here we go. Next race is 5 miles in 3 weeks time. I expect I will be near the back of the field, but hey, who cares ? I'm a Marathoner !!!

At last..... I did it !!!

2008-04-15T17:41:00.002+01:00

I am sorry to have taken so long to write this post. The last few days have been a roller coaster of emotion and activity, but here I am, better late than never !!

Sunday dawned bright and sunny - a beautiful day. I was up at 5 am to shower and have my porridge for breakfast and then off I went to meet the coach to go to Blackheath. Apart from a nervous feeling in my tummy I felt so focussed and ready. I dropped my kit bag on the baggage lorry and lined up in my pen to run. In the distance we could see the line of runners starting to move and the atmosphere was electric.

I set off a little worried about my run/walk strategy - worried that I would slow others down or trip someone up, but I shouldn't have worried at all as it went well. I jogged along nicely in the brilliant sunshine and after 6 miles I was on 5 and a half hour pace. As the time went on I could see black clouds in the distance, brooding ominously. And as the clouds gathered I began to feel unwell. My tummy was cramping and I just felt awful. The heavens opened and summer became winter. I was wet, cold and ill. The rain turned to hail and I began to laugh - the ridiculous thought of running a marathon in weather like that !! At least I had done my 20 miles in the snow so I was marginally prepared !!

My wonderful Man, my boys and my friend Sarah were there for me, as was the gorgeous GB1 and her children. Sarah gave me her running jacket so I was warm. My Man gave me hugs and love and encouragement, but I could tell from their faces that they were worried about me.

From mile 8 to mile 18 I struggled on. All thoughts of time disappeared and only the determination that I had to finish spurred me on. If I have to walk I will walk. If I have to crawl I will crawl. I will finish this. I decided to just click down the miles. One by one. One by one.

At mile 18 I started to feel ok again. Like sunshine after a storm my body began to feel warm and capable. I had been walking and then running occasionally, but now I could run and walk. I began to spot people ahead of me and pick them off. One by one I passed them. My knee was sore, but I kept stretching and running seemed to help rather than hinder.

At mile 21 I allowed myself to believe that I could do this. I could finish. That gave me strength and I felt a warm confidence spreading through me. On I went. At the corner of the Mall I saw my Man and my boys and Sarah and I don't think I have ever felt anything like it. I tied my jacket round my waist ( ready for a finishing photo !!), turned the corner and ahead of me was the Finish. The crowd cheered my name as I ran down the Mall. I ran as fast as I could - and because I was running where others were walking wounded, they cheered me more. I ran through the Finish with my arms aloft and the biggest happiest smile ever on my face. I was laughing and full of absolute joy. As the lady handed me my medal I nearly cracked. " I have dreamt of this moment for so long !!"

And now ? Its over. I have done it. I didn't do it as fast as I could have, but to get that medal I was strong and determined, single-minded. Not many people have a London Marathon medal, but I do, and I feel proud.

Last Post...

2008-04-11T20:05:00.003+01:00

I don't think, when I started all of this, that I ever dreamt how lucky I would be. I thought it would be just me, plodding along, doing my own little thing. I didn't realise that a by product of it all would be my realisation of how incredibly fortunate I am in my life. I have had such amazing support from my friends, from acquaintances and even from complete strangers. I don't know if I can ever thank you all adequately for the encouragement you have given me. Thank you so, so much.

The last couple of days have been wonderful. My lovely Man has been massively supportive throughout - cooking, cleaning, providing steady shoulders to cry on, making me laugh at myself when I got too serious. I knew he was the perfect man, but these last few months have proved it even more. I love him soooo much!! My friends Sarah and Zoe have been absolutely steadfast coming out in all manner of weather to run with me - they've asked me how I'm doing and told me I'm wonderful ( madwomen !! ) When I went along to Book Club this week Sarah had baked me a yummy cake and her daughter had made this gorgeous card ( see above ) to go on the top ( complete with newspaper cutting on the back !) Today she and Zoe gave me a bag of goodies - champagne, pampering scrub and jelly babies !! My friend Debs met me at school today with a bag of Radox Muscle soak, Belgian chocs and lucozade sweets - a whole after marathon kit !! And all that despite having her own problems and worries to deal with.

My class today presented me with a magnificent card that they had all made in secret. Each child had drawn a picture of themself in full running kit - ready to run alongside me - and written their message of support. I have had texts, phonecalls, cards - all wishing me well.

As I write this I feel pretty emotional thinking of the love and encouragement that so many people have shown me.As I run on Sunday I am going to follow the advice that someone gave to me:

Each mile will be run for a person I know. As I plod along I won't be alone because you will be there with me, by my shoulder, in my heart. Special people who have helped me reach this day. I hope I don't let you down.

Registration..... Done.

2008-04-09T17:23:00.002+01:00

Each marathon runner, well maybe not the Elite ones, but most of us, have to travel to the London Excel Centre in Docklands to register. You have to check in, collect your bib number, safety pins ( helpful touch !) kit bag and timing chip. The Expo is open from today until Saturday so I went up today. As I approached on the Docklands Light Railway I knew that I was heading in the right direction, purely from the number of healthy looking types clutching either carrier bags with the Marathon Magazine in, or North face back packs. Most of them seemed to be carrying bottles of water, eating healthy packs of rice or pasta and either wearing well worn trainers or Timberland boots !

A steady stream of people made their way into the Exhibition and registered at the desk appropriate for their number. I found myself suddenly overcome by the reality of all this. I was actually here, registering for "The London Marathon ". The man at the desk thought I looked bored and I had to explain to him that I was actually trying hard not to cry ! " Ahhh, First Timer ? " He said. How did he know that ?? Do I still not look like a runner ? Will I ever ? The man at the timing chip desk said the same thing. As he gave me my chip he smiled and said " First Timer ?" "Yes, how do you know ??" I said. He smiled again "You've just got that look. Good luck on Sunday !!"

At that I nearly crumbled. I smiled and hurried away with tears welling. I pretended to be sorting out my bag until I could pull myself together. For crying out loud !! If I cry at registration what sort of wreck will I be on the Day ??!!

I wandered round the Expo and picked up a couple of little things for my boys and then decided to come home. Its weird, but I still feel like that little girl whose PE Teacher told her she was always useless at sport. Get a grip girl !!

I don't feel as nervous now as before getting my number, which is good. I am trying to live "in the moment " I refuse to worry about what might happen. My Mantra is " I can do this. I will do this. "

Oh, and one last thing... My Trainer, Suzy, put a bit in the local paper about both me and a couple of her other clients. I am actually in the Sports Section, with a photo !!! Who would have thought ?? Runner 006123 ready for duty...

One Week today...

2008-04-06T22:56:00.002+01:00

I cannot quite believe that in one week's time I will have come to the end of all this. Whether I cross the Finish Line in triumphant tears or fail miserably, it will be over.

I went to the physio and she told me, thank goodness, that my hip troubles were down to tight muscles. Apparently they, the physios, are always inundated at this time of year by nervous marathon runners !!! So, she gave me a good massage, showed me some great stretches and we had a good old chat !!

The next day I went out for a run with my Man. We went off through the woods, just following our noses and it was marvelous !! Although I felt a little sore to start with it eased after the first couple of miles. We ended up doing 3.5 miles. We saw blackbirds, jays, woodpeckers, masses of frogs and the start of the bluebells. Lovely.

Next day I felt fine and rejoined my Hal Higdon schedule. Hal said run 8 miles - so I did!! And they were 8 good miles. By mile 5 I was feeling brilliant - the best for months -loose and warm and with some bounce in my legs. Said bounce has been sadly missing for some time now so it was great to have it back !! I was out for 1 hour 49 minutes and really enjoyed myself.

I started to plan my after marathon aims. I am determined to improve my speed and general fitness. I want to do the marathon again, but run all the way, not run/walk and I want to become a real runner, keep running into my old age !! Hark at me !!!

You know, I am, at the moment, excited but not nervous. Its almost like the days before my wedding. I knew then that it was absolutely right to marry my Man and now I know that it is absolutely right to run this marathon. Although with the whole marathon thing I do get the odd twinge of fear. Fear that maybe I won't be able to do it, that I will fail for one reason or another. I could not face people if I failed, could not face their pity. I just have to believe in myself. I have to believe that I have done everything I can to be ready for this and that I can and will succeed.

I feel so priveleged to have a place in this race. When people say to me " Why are you doing it ? "
I always think " Why not ? How could you not at least try to complete such a momentous event at least once in your life ?" You can take the safe route and guarantee that life will be easy and successful, but I would rather take a chance, push myself to my limits and beyond. Ahead of me lies the unknown. This time next Sunday...

Nearly there...

2008-04-03T14:12:00.004+01:00

So, only a little over a week and the BIG DAY will be here. I can't quite believe that the time has flown by so quickly. I went out yesterday and did 1 mile, but my hip felt sore still and I stopped. I would rather do very little and make sure I am fit on the day than go and do 5 miles that aggravate the problem. I have booked in to see a physio tonight just to get checked over. Hopefully she will tell me I am being a big wimp and that all is well.

I am certainly eating very well. Lots of fresh organic fruit and veg, pasta and free range meat. I went through my recipe books the other day and have organised my menu for the next week or so !! I had to sort out meals that were high carb, tasty and that all the family would eat !! I started last night with a lovely Nigella Lawson pasta with thinly sliced raw chestnut mushrooms, steeped in lemon, garlic and thyme. I was a bit dubious about the rawness, but in fact it was delicious !

My emotions are all over the place. I think really I need a jolly good cry. I had to go to my aunt's funeral on Tuesday which was difficult, as all these things are. It was both heart wrenching and yet we laughed like drains at points. It was so wonderful to be with all my family. My uncle ( to my horror ) shouted for everyone's attention just as I was leaving, and announced that I was doing the Marathon. It turned out that there was another runner there who had known my dad. We stood and chatted for ages. He does run/walk too and this will be his 4th marathon. This running/marathon business brings you together with so many people. No matter what level you are hoping to achieve, the fact that you are training for this incredible event brings you close, links you, gives you an understanding of each other.

All in all, this is a strange time. So near and yet so far. I am hugely encouraged by my lovely man and by my friends. I have met some fantastic people online too. The Realbuzz site has proved invaluable for the camaraderie and friendly advice. People like Sue, who has had to pull out through injury sadly, Annie, Kim and Glenn, Terry, Peter, Jeanette - all of them have supported me along the way like troopers and I have never even met them !! I even opened my page the other day to see that Liz Yelling had left me a message of encouragement. I am constantly amazed at who actually reads my scribblings !!

This journey, that started when my Dad died, nearly 8 years ago, is nearing the end. But I know that, in fact, this is not the end at all, this is one of the milestones on the way.
If I can get to that Start line pain free I will be ecstatic. If I can get to the Finish line...

Up and down, up and down...

2008-03-29T12:26:00.002Z

This whole Marathon Training Malarkey is just a huge roller coaster. One minute I am high as a kite, feeling like Paula Radcliffe, the next I am down and feeling more like Bernard Manning !! And he's dead for goodness' sake !!

I loved my 20 miler, but the aftermath this week has taught me a huge lesson. I felt fine on the day and the day after, but the day after that I was sooooo sore !! I felt as though I probably needed a hip replacement - or maybe an entire body transplant. I tried to go out on the Wednesday to run, but just couldn't. Pathetic really.

And I have learned from this that I need to drink much more. And by that I do not mean red wine and tea which are my usual tipples of choice ( not in the same glass, I hasten to add ). I have to flush the lactic acid out of my muscles and water is what I need. This week has been a wipe out. Today is the first day that I have felt able to go out and that's what I'm going to do this afternoon. Just a quiet 3 or 4 miles I reckon.

I look at some of the good runners around and realise the dedication it takes to get to their level. Its not just about going out training. Its about early nights, good food, good carbs,low fat, water... the list goes on and I realise that I am right at the beginning of the learning process. I wish I had had the confidence to start running when I was younger, but I am sooooo glad that I am doing it now. Yes, it hurts, yes, it takes up time, but when you get it right it feels fantastic.

2 weeks now before the Marathon and I need to get out and run. I need to seriously take care of my old bod in the lead up. I still have time to recover properly from my 20, learn from my mistakes and turn up fit and raring to go at the Start.

Oh, and, a bit belatedly, I want to say thank you to Annie for the quote below. Annie is one of my running heroes !!!

2008-03-26T14:38:00.001Z

What we think, or what we know, or what we believe, is, in the end, of little consequence.
The only consequence is what we do.
John Ruskin (1819 - 1900)

Yeeeeesssssss!!!!!!!

2008-03-22T16:39:00.002Z

It seems quite surreal for me to be writing this, but today I ran.....

20.5 MILES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

And, I have to say, you couldn't have had worse weather really. ( Well, maybe thunder and lightning would have been worse ) When my alarm went off at 7am I looked out of the window to see driving snow. Still, it wasn't sticking so I thought that I would rather get the run over and done with than put it off until tomorrow.

I had my porridge, tea, vitamin C drink, watched a bit of Sponge Bob, and then off I went !! I was very pleased with my layers ( 4 ) which kept me warm, along with gloves, warm hat and bandana, which came in very handy indeed. I had to pull it up several times over my face as I was sandblasted by the snow and hail !!!

I ran the first 8 miles by myself and then was joined by my Man, looking rather windswept and macho on his bike !! Together we set off into the blizzard. I took Go gels every hour and treated myself to a bit of energy bar at the halfway mark. At 15 miles my knee twinged a bit, but nothing too bad. I stretched my muscles and it was ok.

I hit the 20 mile mark at 4 hours 53 and ran with my arms overhead singing the theme from Rocky. Half a mile later we were home, muddy, chilly, but bloody HAPPY !!!!! And the good news is that I feel amazing - no aches, no pains, just happiness.