Crazy Runner Girl

STILL CHASING A DREAM!

2011-10-20T13:51:00.000-07:00

THE DECISION IS MADE

The day after Leadville at breakfast Brian, Judy and Paul were strongly encouraging me to find another 100 race. They all have been very supportive of me. I started thinking what was out there before the season ended. I quickly came up with Oil Creek 100. The positives, I knew the course and it wasn’t far from home. My biggest concern was could Paul and Judy join us for pacing duties? Since they would be travelling to North Carolina at that time it worked out that they could be there for me. I sent the race director an email with my dilemma since I noticed the race was full. He told me to go ahead and register. Okay step one done! I’m in and actually excited.

SLEEP?? WHATS THAT?

Brian and I left Friday afternoon to get to PA. The trip was uneventful except that Brian had a nice head cold and I drove most of the way there. Along the way we stopped at a travel plaza on the toll road for a bathroom break. We could smell the Cinnabons as we walked out and I mentioned how good they smelled. We threw caution to the wind and turned around to go back in the building and get one. Why not? I was running 100 miles the next day, I’ll burn it off. We did share one between the two of us and it was oh so good! We decided to go tent camping since the weather was supposed to be spectacular. We have a tent that goes in the back of my Avalanche, so we are up off the ground. We got there around 8 p.m. and went in to get my number and stuff. We set the tent up in the parking lot for the night. This would make for an easy morning since the start time was 5 a.m. We headed off to bed all comfy, oh wait Brian immediately started complaining his ass was touching the bed of the truck. It wasn't long and the mattress was totally deflated. Also, the temps dipped into the upper 30's low 40's! So it was cold and very wet from dew. We didn't sleep very well that night. I got up the next morning before the alarm went off and walked into the school where it was warmer, to get ready. I came back to the truck to grab my drop boxes and take them where they needed to go. Brian and I headed for inside the school where we would wait until it was time to start. As I was eating a bagel I discovered that my Garmin was missing! I dropped it by accident, someone found it and gave it to the race director. I found him and retrieved it! Whew! Soon we all were headed outside to start.

LETS GET THIS PARTY STARTED!

Brian was standing next to me and the next thing I know everyone is taking off. Oh, the race has started? I kiss Brian quickly and I'm off! I run relaxed and feeling good except for one thing, the guy near me must be terrified of bears he has freaking bear bells on and within a half mile is already driving me nuts! Ching, ching, ching, ching.... Grrr.... He and I are together for at least 2 miles. In the meantime while I'm running Brian went back to the truck to get some sleep, since it’s going to be a lonnnnnng day. I hit the trail still feeling awesome and holding back. It's dark, really dark and I know it’s going to be for a while until daylight. I make my way on the single track with lots of others and passing is hard to do. This is a good thing for me since it holds me back even though I'm chomping at the bit to go faster. I try to relax! I'm motoring along quite well and tell myself all I have to do is keep my feet under me and life is good. I go by the first water only checkpoint there is a volunteer standing there.

EMBRACING THE TRAIL

I cross the bridge and head up the short hill. Now I'm on level ground and cruising easily along. That is until a half mile after the bridge. I think I clipped a rock and went down. It's not unusual for me to fall. This fall did ring my bell a bit. I sat up and someone asked are you ok, I replied yep. I went to brush the dirt off my knee oops it wasn't dirt! I could see my entire knee cap and part of the joint. I said some not nice words and threw my water bottle. I was more mad than hurt. I didn’t cry, it wasn't supposed to be like this! I knew at that point I was done! I got up and started walking back to the water only aid station since I knew there was a volunteer there. As I walked along many runners asked if I was ok my answer NO! I did see a few people I knew along the way and I told them to keep going! As I made it back to the water only point another guy missed the turn and landed under the bridge I had to go over. The volunteer was rushing to help him not knowing that I was coming back for help. This guy was shaken but not hurt badly. As I got on the bridge I announced it that I was going to pass out. I had 4 runners catch me as I went down. The weird thing was I could still hear what was going on around me. They got me over the bridge and sat me down to assess the situation. Some of the runners were trying to hand me first aid, but this gash was beyond first aid. Once I felt up to it and shooed all the runners away instructing them to go do their run, the volunteer walked me down the trail to the bike path. I felt fine to walk and even considered continuing. He was telling me had driven his truck down to this area the last 2 years and this year this year he decided to take his bike. His thought was these are 100 milers they are careful and no tragedies have ever happened this early in the race. He got on his bike to get help and I started walking to the start finish.

COLD, DARK, ALONE AND HEARING WEIRD NOISES COMING FROM THE WOODS!

It was dark, cold, wet and did I say dark? I was hearing funny things in the woods which was freaking me out and freezing to death! I must have walked a mile before the EMT's found me. They put me in the golf cart and drove what felt like 90 mph to get me to the school. Once I got in the school they looked at the knee, I got many of odd looks. They said the ambulance will be here shortly. I adamantly said NO I'm not taking an ambulance, I'm not dying. One of the EMT’s instructed a girl to take my blood pressure she said I can't take it I've only done this in training! I was thinking, really? You won’t kill me. This is when I wanted Cara there she would have done it without hesitation. So someone else luckily stepped up to the plate. I also called Brian at this point using someone’s cell phone. He didn't recognize the number but, luckily he answered it. I told him to come up to the school I was inside, I had a little accident. By the time he got there they had me all packaged up and they had officially pulled me from the race by pulling my tag off my number. I really wanted to get back out there. I signed the paperwork that I refused an ambulance and was released.

HEADED TO THE HOSPITAL

We walked back to the truck and still had to tear the tent down and throw all the crap that was in the front seat in the back. The tent was soaked from the morning dew but, we decided we would dry it out later. Once everything was packed up we were able to go to the hospital which was literally a couple of blocks away. While we drove there Brian told me I needed to call Paul and Judy to let them know what happened. As I called using my phone Judy answered thinking Brian was calling in with a race report. So she answered the phone all happy and chipper not realizing I was on the other end. At first she was confused. Why aren’t you running, hang up the phone and get going. I explained I had a little accident and was on my way to the hospital. She had the same reaction I did and once again the not so nice words were flying. I explained what happened and they said they were still coming. My thoughts were good, because I needed them for support! We walked into the hospital at a good time. There was no one else there, so I got right in. They took me and kept Brian back to take care of the paperwork. The nurses were so nice and made my side trip no so bad. I was still shivering and cold. They gave me blankets to warm me up but I also think I was in a bit of shock as well. They got me somewhat cleaned up and I was headed to x-ray for some lovely pictures of my knee. When I came back Brian said oh no! What? You didn’t get a chance to do your hair! No I didn’t. The dr. came in and they had to basically flush my knee out. I had so much trail dirt in there. He was pulling out leaf stems and had to cut some of the tissue away since the dirt was ground in! I had Brian take a picture of the gash before anything was done so that we would have pictures to share. The hospital staff was shaking their heads at us since we were anxious to share it on Facebook. The flush was not fun and for a few of the stitches the numbing medicine wore off that was painful!!! 9 stitches later I was patched back up and released. While we waited for Paul and Judy to get there we were able to get my drop boxes, get a campsite for the night and my pain medication. They arrived later in the day and we had a fun day despite me not finishing the 100 miler.

The next few days after that were not fun! We drove home and basically spent it on the couch. My knee was swollen and I could barely walk. It was almost a week later before things started to look better. As each day goes by I’m feeling better and I’m actually already up and running again. My season is over for 2011 and I’m looking forward to 2012!! I’m hoping that I have paid my dues and my string of bad luck is over! I’m not even thinking of another 100 miler at this point, I’m just trying to enjoy some down time and giving my body a break. With that said my next big race will be April 15^th 2012 at Forget the PR in Ohio.

LOOKOUT LEADVILLE THE ROJEWSKIS' ARE IN TOWN!!!!!!

2011-09-14T12:16:00.000-07:00

As I sit here I wonder, How can it be over? It went by way to fast! We started planning our trip to Leadville a year ago. At that time it seemed so far away but during the winter it kept me focused on what I had to work for.

REST REST REST!

The week before the race we were in Leadville camping in the San Isabel National Forest. I will say if you go to Leadville these campgrounds are outstanding! Lodge pole pines, quiet and Turquoise Lake. We stayed at the Father Dyer campground. There were a few others camping there as well doing the same as me, altitude acclimation! Most of the week was spent hanging out at the campground reading, napping and just being lazy. Although I did go out for a few easy runs by the lake. A few days before the race Brian, Scout and I all went for a run/walk to the dam and back. I ran ahead of Brian and Scout, while I was on my return trip I grabbed Scout from Brian to run back with me. Scout has become a bit slow and lazy these days, so she was slacking behind me. We were just finishing up our run and I looked back to see where she was, SPLAT! Next thing I know I was on the ground! Great! A scrubbed up hand and had a bloody knee, just what I needed. I figured I got my falling out of the way ahead of time. Brian returned and said really? Can't you go into a race without being injured in some way? Nope!

Two days before the race we were able to pick up my packet, get me weighed in and checked in. We thought we would beat the rush and do the early check in but so did many others! John another runner from Oklahoma that we got to know weighed in a few people ahead of me. After he weighed in he turned to me and said "I am not the biggest loser!" he gained 5 pounds!!! Then it was my turn to weigh in and I was nervous!! oh, I gained 3 pounds okay. After I was all checked in we hustled back to the campground where the atmosphere was much quieter.

The day before the race was spent packing drop boxes, making sure gear was in order, laying out my clothes, double checking everything, going over check point details with Brian and resting! This day went by very quickly! We had a mandatory race meeting to attend in the morning. We met up with friends Dana and another Paul who was also running. The meeting was crowded and hot! We were glad to get out of that building!! It was more of a pep rally than an informative meeting. As we exited the building I ran into a fellow runner I knew from Ohio! ROY! He was there pacing another runner from Ohio. We chatted briefly and went in separate directions. We headed back to the campground to meet up with Paul and Judy since they were staying with us. Evening approached quickly and I was wound up! As we went to town to drop off my drop boxes we also grabbed pizza for dinner. Dana and her friend Paul joined us as well along with a few others that were running! It was fun chatting with everyone. We all turned in early for the evening since we had to be up by 2:30 in the morning to get to the start line. Here it is the night before the race and a nasty thunderstorm moved in!! It stormed and poured until after midnight!

IS THIS FOR REAL??? ITS REALLY HAPPENING!

That night I don't think I slept for more than 5 minutes! All I did was lay there thinking about what was about to happen. I got up before my alarm and started getting ready, letting Brian sleep. OH MY!!!! Nerves and excitement were all bundled up inside me. I pinned my number on, made some breakfast and coffee! We all got in our cars and headed for the start line while I ate my breakfast on the way. I didn't say much just kind of sat there, anxious for the day to get started.

We got the start line and lots of people were milling around. You could certainly feel the excitement in the air! Last minute instructions were given from Paul, hugs, good lucks were said and one last kiss to Brian. They left me in the start corral, I was ready to do this! I took a deep breath as the countdown began 5-4-3-2-1 BANG! The shotgun went off and I was on my way!!! I took in the chatter around me and couldn't believe that people were outside their homes at 4 in the morning to party and watch us take off. The beginning is mostly downhill and you can easily get caught up with the crowd. I tried holding back but I was also scared that I wouldn't make the first cutoff. I knew this first section like the back of my hand. We drove certain sections of it and I ran the Turquoise Lake section almost everyday we were there before the race. In order to get to the lake there is a short, steep rocky section that everyone walks up. As I started climbing I took a second to look behind me and the scene was really cool! All I could see were lots of headlamps and I won't forget that sight!!! Once we crested the hill we crossed the road to run by the lake. It's mostly single file at this point and still quite dark. As the lake made turns ahead of me I could see headlamps twinkling in the darkness. Also, the fog was hanging just over the lake which made this feel as if I was dreaming! I was running along with my music trying to keep within my own world and not get caught up with everyone else. By the time I got to Mayqueen (my first check point) it was already daylight and the crowds and crews were in full swing! When I popped out of the woods I looked at my watch and knew I came in way too fast I was 20 minutes ahead of what I should have been! I started looking for my crew, luckily they found me. I saw Paul and he said get checked in, grab any food that looks good and check out. We'll talk then. I did that and dropped my headlamp and warm clothes. I told Paul, I know I came in way too fast! Yes you did, he told me to start walking while eating and walk the up hill that I had coming. Good thing was I knew this section as well! So I knew what was coming.

MAYQUEEN TO FISH HATCHERY

As I left Mayqueen Paul and I talked about what I needed to do for this section and he sent me on my way but Brian walked a bit with me. Bad thing, my hat and sunglasses were accidentally forgotten but I would have them by the time I got to Fish Hatchery. I really needed them but, dealt with the situation. This first section is on the Colorado trail which is all woods with most of it being uphill. This gave me time to eat what was in my hands and drink more. The crowds were thinning out but not lonely by any means! After a few miles we pop out onto Hagerman Pass, more uphill and then we made a sharp left turn to start climbing Sugarloaf Pass. This is nonstop climbing!!! Everyone walks this section but with tunes playing I just power hiked up. Before I knew it I was peering down from the top of the infamous power lines!!!! They were buzzing and snapping over head as I started the plunge down! Now, I felt like I was running downhill forever! My IT band started to let me know it didn't like this. What the heck?? My IT band never complains! So let's solve this issue right now!! I popped 800mg of Motrin and 20 mins later I felt much better. What I didn't realize was that once I got down from the power lines it felt like I had a long way to get to Fish Hatchery. Running, Walking I finally got there!! This was another area that I was overwhelmed by people!!! Luckily Judy spotted me and I was so happy to see her! Again, she said Paul and Brian were just up ahead. She took my backpack while I checked in, grabbed anything that looked good and Judy was waiting outside the building for me. We walked to where they had all my stuff. Paul instructed me that I'd be carrying handhelds instead of a backpack for the next section. While eating and getting more instructions from Paul, Judy was putting sunscreen on for me. And I got my hat and sunglasses which was really needed at this point! It was warming up!!! They sent me on my way with food in hand!

FISH HATCHERY TO TREE LINE

As I took off walking and eating my crew went back to their cars to get to tree line. I finished eating and started running again. As I did my crew drove by and gave me more positive words! Thanks!! Brian also passed by and we quickly exchanged positive words. Brian's an awesome support for me. I decided that I would run past three telephone poles and walk one. I kept this going until I ran out of telephone poles. I was also riding off the coat tails of a guy I had seen on my way into Fish Hatchery. He looked like a skinny santa and I called him that. We talked off and on most of the day. I would be near this guy from time to time all day long. So when santa ran, I ran to catch up! It worked for me and kept me focused. This section was the most boring section of the day! Probably because it was mainly roads with cars whizzing by. As I was coming into Tree Line this is not an aid station but a spot for crews to give support for their runners. Again, I was amazed coming in. It looked like just one long line of cars with crews on both sides of the trail or 2 track is a better term. Again, Paul and Judy found me when I came in. They had everything ready for me. My backpack was filled and ready to go. Only one problem, Brian filled it really full!!! It was heavy. I took off with it and more food in hand. Paul quickly walked a short distance with me giving me more instructions.

TREE LINE TO TWIN LAKES

This was a long section, which involved even more walking. I don't remember too much of this. I know we were going around Mt. Elbert in order to get to Twin lakes. I would run a bit, power hike a bit. As we got closer to Twin Lakes I hung with a group of about 4-6 people. We all ran together and then power hiked together. I could see Twin Lakes down below but knew I still had a long way to go since I was still up really high which ment more downhill running! As I got closer I could hear people cheering which makes you move a little faster knowing it's right there!!! I also remembered Paul showing me how I would pop off the trail and into Twin Lakes. It was a short super steep rocky hill. I was careful to not come tumbling down head over heels since everyone was watching me!!! I didn't, I stayed upright!!! I got checked in and out. Paul and Judy found me right away along with Brian. I took a minute to sit and eat a hotdog. I really wanted it and got about half of it down. I was starting to let them know my stomach wasn't happy. I figured with eating and drinking at the aid station it would settle down and it was rather warm out. Now it was time for the big climb!! I was at the lowest elevation (9200 ft) point of the race headed for the highest point (12,600 ft) of the race. I began walking and Paul walked with me reminding me of a few things we had went over before. As we parted ways and he sent me on my way I said to him "I hope you are ready to pace me!" He said he couldn't wait. I left saying see you on the other side!

TWIN LAKES TO HOPE PASS

I left Twin Lakes in a positive upbeat mood. When you leave Twin Lakes you have a marshy grassy area to cross along with a river crossing before you really get into the major climbing. This gave me time to finish up eating. We had several small water crossings before the river. The water felt good it was cold and refreshed my legs. It was pretty much knee deep for me and the current was moving fairly quickly so they had a rope across the river to use. Coming out of the river it wasn't much farther until you were in the woods. When I got on the trail in the woods this is when the relentless climbing started! I knew it was going to be hard and just tried to keep moving. The more I climbed the more I felt like crap. Also, as I started my climb wouldn't you know it, my mp3 player decided it was time to quit! So I put it away and continued climbing. I don't remember how far I got before my stomach had had enough and the puking was in full swing!! I kept pushing on. The closer I got to the top the more I felt like I had been pummeled by a train! My quads were screaming and my legs felt heavy. I was trying everything I took more salt, kept drinking, food was becoming a total turn off. I tried taking a Gu knowing I need calories. Oops! Bad idea it came right back up! I kept thinking I don't remember this feeling that difficult when we did a training hike up here. It also felt as if it took forever to get to Hope Pass. Eventually, I came out to the meadow and saw the llamas grazing in the field. As I got there the aid station was in full swing tending to runners going in both directions now. There were people up there getting IV's and others just not feeling well. I felt like total crap at this point but tried to stay positive. I was able to get some chicken broth which seemed to stay down. As soon as I finished the broth I was on my way to finish climbing up Hope Pass. It was a slow go but, everyone around me was going just as slow. Once I crested the top of Hope Pass I was headed to Wynfield to see my crew and pick up Paul for the return journey.

HOPE PASS TO WYNFIELD

After cresting Hope Pass you would think I could just bomb down the mountain but, there is one tricky problem. Now I was dealing with two way traffic! Runners going up and many of us still going down. I still felt like total crap but sucked it up and I will say the down went much faster than the up did!! As I was descending I was thinking of all the runners I had met during the Pikes Peak training and I had not seen any of them yet. I kept an eye out and then when I was about halfway down there they all were!!! It seemed like once I saw one I saw them all! They all looked good and they all gave me encouragement and telling me that Paul was waiting for me at the bottom. As I got closer to the bottom of the mountain I started calculating in my head after looking at my watch. Santa was near me and I expressed a bit of concern with the cutoff. His positive words were we are okay, we'll be fine. I just kept moving looking for the parking lot at the bottom. FINALLY!!! I reach the bottom and Brian is there waiting for me. I start crying and voicing that I don't know if I'm going to make the cutoff, all while I'm walking. Brian walks with me and tells me Paul and Judy are by the road waiting for me. I get to the road and Paul gives me a pep talk and also instructs me that I'm going to have to dig deep and run more if I'm going to make the cutoff. I also tell them I've been really sick and throwing up. They all leave me to get to Wynfield on my own since they can't be with me yet. I decide this is it!!! I gotta fight to make the cutoff! I'm NOT going to give in! So, I start running with each step getting me closer to Wynfield. I had no doubt in my head, I knew I would make the cutoff! Brian, Paul and Judy drive by encouraging me to keep it up! The dirt road to get to Wynfield is dusty and has cars and runners going in both directions. I will say it felt like it took forever to get to Wynfield and the closer I got the more encouragement I got from people. This was probably the most memorable and supportive section of the race I remember. I was getting close to the cutoff but still digging deep to make it!!! I remember being less than a half mile out and a guy sitting there saying Hun, if you're going to make the cutoff you've got to pick up the pace and run faster, it's going to be close but you can still make it! I remember seeing the check point and not really knowing where to go, there were so many people around! Finally Paul is there waiting for me and runs me thru the chute. I ran towards the check point tent and the lady in the tent said if she has what she needs get her out of here. SO, we ran thru and I was checked in and out with 8 minutes to spare!!!! I sat in a chair for just a bit and explaining the stomach problems with my crew. Suddenly Bill Moyer (who is from Michigan and knows me well) appears! He is one of the many volunteers for the race. He asks Paul how long I have been sitting there. Paul says just over a minute. He gets down to my level and starts in on me! I will never forget this: Get up and get moving!!!! Michigan runners don't quit!!! I get up and start moving again, everything hurts but I had no intentions of ever quitting. I knew I had a tough trek ahead of me going back up Hope Pass!

WYNFIELD TO HOPE PASS (INBOUND)

As I left Wynfield I had Paul with me now!!! Yeah company! But, I wasn't feeling up to talking much yet. On the way to begin my final climb up Hope Pass we did a shuffle/walk. Upon reaching the parking lot we saw Judy and Brian one last time before heading up Hope Pass. I eat a bit of rice pudding and we set off for the pass. The climb is arduous and slow! I would walk a bit and have to stop for a second to catch my breath. I think this is the hardest part of the entire race. The climb is steep! As we climb I also mention that I have the urge to purge! I am able to keep my stomach under control for a short bit but, it doesn't take long for things to start coming back up. I kept the forward motion going, but stopping from time to time. This all I really remember of this climb beside puking and Paul telling someone I drank too much the night before! Funny Paul, I can laugh about that now! It was getting dark while we were still climbing to the top. Paul was so patient with me and I'm very grateful! He did point out a mountain in back of us that the last of the sun of the day was shining on a peak. It was such a beautiful sight and a nice memory for me of the mountains. Before we reached the top we had headlamps on and it was dark. REALLY DARK!!! Cresting the top of Hope Pass and peering down at the aid station was a welcome sight! At this point I knew I was not going to make the cutoff into Twin Lakes. I'm still shocked I didn't get upset or cry. But, I'm glad I was able to discuss this with Paul and he made me feel better about it. As we came into Hope Aid Station I was able to get more chicken broth. As I sat in the tent one of the aid station women came over to me and gave me a pressure point massage. It felt great and she said it would settle my stomach. I don't know if it really did but the puking stopped. As I finished the soup I got back up and we started heading down to Twin Lakes.

HOPE PASS TO TWIN LAKES

As we left Hope Pass aid station I looked up at the stars! WOW! They were so incredible, I felt as if I could reach out and touch them! The further I went down the better I felt and the more chatty I got. We knew I wouldn't make the cutoff so we didn't hurry getting down since I was having a hard time staying on two feet. I must have fallen 20 times going down. As we came off the mountain we still had to cross the marshy area and river yet. With the chill in the air the river crossing was really cold now. As we continued across the marshy area we were surprised by running into Brian and Judy! They were very concerned about us and started walking the trail backwards. They heard a runner was down and it was a women. They couldn't get a number or a name and thought it could be me since I was late getting in. When we came across them in the darkness I said Brian is that you? and I got a Dusty is that you? from Judy. I said yes, she shined her flashlight towards us and saw us. She ran over and hugged me!!! They were so relieved to see I was okay. Of course we are! I said we knew we wouldn't make the cutoff and we took our time coming down. I guess I gave them a good scare. We all walked into Twin Lakes together. As Judy and Brian gathered our stuff, Paul and I checked into the aid station. They cut my wrist band off. It was over, I was done. I walked back to the car, tired but with my head held high. We got into our cars and headed back town.

AFTER THOUGHTS

Now that I've had some time to think about all of this, I'm still okay with it. Will I be back?? I think so. First I have to figure out why I get so sick while running at altitude. I have never had these issues while running at sea level. Actually, I've never had a puke fest like I did at both Leadville races this year.

One of the best things that happened the next morning while we were having breakfast together was Cara called to check on my progress. Brian told her I did not make the cutoff and asked her if she would like to talk to me. She said yes and the phone was handed to me. Her phone call almost made me cry right there. SHe said she was sorry to hear I didn't finish but the proudest moment was when she said she was proud of me for making it as far as I did! That choked me up, but I held it together and we chatted briefly about the race.

Words cannot express how grateful I am to have Paul and Judy crew, pace, be a wonderful friend, a shoulder to lean on or in Paul's case a friend who patiently waits while I'm puking and says it's okay. You both are the best!

AND then Brian. He is the biggest supporter I have. He is always there for me even when I'm feeling like total crap he can put a smile on my face. I'm so lucky to be married to him! What husband would say lets plan our vacation around a race and spend a whole day chasing me around? Together we have seen some of the most beautiful parts of the country that most people never see!

OUR JOURNEY TO LEADVILLE

2011-09-01T12:57:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I've written anything on here. I've been pretty busy getting ready for this race. It was decided a year ago that I would do the Leadville 100.

We left Michigan on August 6th to begin our journey to Colorado and we were very excited! Our first stop was to Manitou Springs or better known as the home of Pikes Peak. I just love this area! There are people running, biking, hiking and doing various activities all the time!We were constantly on the move while we were in Manitou Springs. I was finally able to cross a few things off my bucket list while here that I have been wanting to do. If you know Brian and I our trips always have more than enough excitement.

FUGITIVES!!!!

One of the things that happened was we decided to visit the REI store in Colorado Springs not knowing that there were three fugitives that had robbed a bank in Florida and were shopping for a tent in that store we were in! We discovered this while watching the news that evening!! We laughed saying they were probably camping right next to us! They were caught a few days later just south of us.

OH NO, STOLEN SHOES!!!!!

After Brian and I hike or run we always leave or trail shoes outside by the camper door since they can be dirty and smelly! This is a habit that we practice often. The next day I took Scout for a walk noticing that the shoes have been put away since they are no where in sight. I didn't think twice about this and continued on for the day. Early in the evening Brian asked where I had put his trail shoes. I replied, "I thought you put them away." we started looking everywhere throughout the camper and around the outside. I started to panic saying this can't be happening! My shoes were brand new! I need these shoes for my race! Who would want neon green trail shoes AND Brian's big boats! I assumed it was kids messing around. After looking around I looked up to see both pair neatly placed by the main building door of the campground. I picked them up and put them away but not without noticing that my laces had been cut! REALLY? Still blaming kids I went in to tell the office and I was telling them my dilemma. The owner of the campground put his hand up and said wait, you need to hear this! It was not kids that took your shoes! Oh? I just looked at him while he told me that our shoes were all over the campground early that morning. It was raccoons that had stolen our shoes and one of my green shoes were headed for the highway with the raccoon. Luckily they were able to find both complete pairs of shoes. Now, we can laugh about it but it wasn't funny at the time! Whew!

WALDO CANYON

The first day we were here we got up and ran in Waldo Canyon. I love running here. Brian and Scout set out for a walk while I went for a nice long run! Brian is always looking for Waldo when we do this canyon!

THE INCLINE!!!

Early Thursday morning I met up with Paul, Judy and Darwin (their dog) to climb the incline. Brian did the Barr trail and we met up with him after we finished the Incline. The incline is crazy, but so much fun! Its really illegal to do the incline but everyone seems to ignore the signs posted that say no trespassing. It's kinda funny! It's only a mile long but it's by far the toughest mile hike I've ever done. Paul, Judy, Darwin and I set out as Paul starts his watch to keep track of how long it takes me to make it to the top. Darwin is amazing as he is bounding up but waits patiently occasionally for Judy and I to catch up. I will say I was dripping in sweat by the time we made it halfway up. I tried not to look up as we went along and focus on the task. I remember saying "Holy Crap!" alot and Paul and Judy laughing at me! As I think I have almost made it to the top Paul proceeds to let me know that what I see is NOT the top! It's a false summit! You gotta be kidding me! We crest it and yeah, more climbing to do! Wow, I'm sweating and breathing like a freight train. I will say occasionally Paul or Judy would pause and tell me to turn around and admire the view! The View was incredible but also to see the climbing I did was cool! After we crest the false summit Paul says he's going to finish going to the top and trots off like its not that tough. Judy and I continue on, I finish in 48 mins We hiked over to the Barr trail to meet up with Brian. Once we found him, Brian and I continued up to Barr camp while Paul and Judy went back home. The hike to Barr camp was nice and a big challenge for Brian. There were a few times he wanted to turn around and go back down but I wouldn't let him. I knew if he didn't make it to Barr camp he would be disappointed with himself!! I got him up there, we hung out at Barr camp for a while feeding the chipmunks and then made the trek back down to the car. Brian was totally worn out by the time we reached the car.

MY FIRST 14'er!!!! VIA CRAG'S TRAIL

Since I totally wore Brian out the day before I was able to go for a hike to the top of Pikes Peak with Judy and Dana. This was the first time I had met Dana and what a hoot! I had so much fun with both of these ladies and felt as if I had known both for a very long time. They had me laughing the entire time. This trail is not the easy way to the top of Pikes Peak! There are alot of steep long climbs. As we climbed up I told them that this was my first 14'er, they were surprised and I was excited! When we got to Devil's playground we had to start following cairns which are piles of rocks to mark where the trail is. But, the biggest challenge was when we were bouldering to get to the top. The were many times we had to stop and look carefully for the cairns. Poor Dana was terrified of the climb and Judy and I tried taking her mind off what we were doing. Woo Hoo!!! We made it to the top!!!! Wow! What a feeling! At the top there is a building where you can go inside, get warm, buy souvenirs and also buy food! We all were starving! We all ordered food and I will say that was the best tasting hot dog I ever had! As we sat there eating someone approached us and asked if anyone needed a ride down. Dana immediately said yes, but we understood. So it was Judy and I making the trek down to the bottom. It doesn't count unless you go up and back down. Judy and I made our way down and the boulders didn't seem that bad. I felt as if I was hopping from rock to rock and before I knew it we were down and back to Devils Playground. We were a bit confused as we seemed to have lost the cairns, but eventually finding them and getting back on the trail headed down! I didn't realize we had such a steep climb going up! The wind picked up and we couldn't even talk!!! But also the trail was steep enough that it was much easier to run! Before I knew it we were back to the car and my first 14'er was complete and in the books!

3-2-1

Saturday we are up early and heading to the top of Pikes Peak for the classic pre leadville trail 100 workout. This workout starts at the summit of Pikes Peak and we run down 3 miles, turn around power hike back up to the summit 3 miles, turn around run down 2 miles, turn around power hike back up to the summit 2 miles, turn around run down 1 mile, turn around power hike back up to the summit 1 mile! Whew! It's tougher than it sounds! We met up with a group of others doing the same workout and they all were headed to the same race. It was really nice getting to meet all these wonderful people. Brian even got in on the fun and did a portion of the workout!!! We had so much fun and when we were finished it was nice to hang out at the top in the building enjoying fresh doughnuts with everyone and just chatting.

Time to head over to Leadville!!!! We said goodbye to Manitou Springs and Pikes Peak and looked forward to getting over to Leadville to prepare for the race.

Forget the PR

2010-04-20T12:16:00.000-07:00

Finally the start to my race season!! All those hard training months in the winter are finally going to be put to good use! We drove the motorhome down to Mohican and stayed right at the State Park. That evening we got our race packets and then headed back to the motorhome to eat dinner. I had time to get all my gear together for the run in the morning.

Race Morning!!!!!

Finally race morning is here and I'm not nervous, uptight or anxious. I was ready to begin the day!! I was confident that I would accomplish the goals I had set. I ate breakfast, had a cup of coffee and was ready to set out for the start line. It was a chilly 32* but, that was perfect for me. Brian had decided that he would wait at the motorhome until it was closer to his race time. I kissed him goodbye, said good luck and headed out the door. When I got to the start line things were already in full swing and you could feel the excitement in the air. I was there just in time for the pre race meeting. Soon after we were off......

The day begins!!

I decided to start in the middle of the pack. I was not bolting down the road, just relaxed and running easy. It wasn't long before we were hitting the trail and starting our upward climb. I hit the trail running and never stopped until I reached the first aid station. Hmmm.... last year I didn't even make it halfway up and was already walking. I was keeping it easy, it was work but it always takes me a few miles to get into a groove. The first aid station was fun (as always) they had a theme, this year it was Alice in Wonderland and I will say very well done! I grabbed food and hightailed it out of there.

Now I was in a rhythm and everything was starting to feel good. It didn't seem as if I had been running long and I was already at the covered bridge. I was headed for my favorite part!!! This is the section I always feel a sense of adventure! Climbing up the root ladder is so much fun for me. Once I was through that I was set on getting to the Resort where the next aid station was. Last year this section was so muddy, people were slipping, sliding and falling down. This year the trail was dry and I was just cruising along. Before I started the race I had written a time on my hand to see how I was doing. Was I on target?? Was I ahead or behind? As I pulled out of the aid station I looked down at my hand, good! Right where I should be! On the way back to the purple loop I was pumped to get to the falls! But, once I got there I was slightly slowed up by a couple of guys that wanted to take their pictures while descending into the falls! Grr... Come on guys! THis is a race and I'm kinda in a hurry, this isn't a photo session! Once I made thru there I cruised back to the covered bridge. On the way there I noticed that another girl and I had been running fairly close together all day. We stuck together the rest of the way. While talking I found out that she is also from Michigan and this was her first ultra! Getting to the Fire Tower is alot of power hiking. Time was going by rather fast since I was chatting it up with my new found friend. When I made it to Fire Tower a friend working the aid station as promised had some potato soup waiting for me. My new friend, Jen asked me if I just ate soup. YEP! and it was so good! I thanked the aid station workers as we high tailed it out of there headed for covered bridge a final time. Talking a cruising along made for the miles to go by rather quickly!

Homeward Bound!

As we came into covered bridge, I was in a hurry to get to the finish line. I basically was in and out knowing the finish was not much further! Somehow Jenn was no longer in tow so it was a quiet go. But, I motored along. It wasn't long I was alone maybe at most a mile ad Jenn's cheery voice was behind me! I knew there was a nasty hill climb just before the finish and I warned Jenn of this before we got there. Jenn was also a huge help for me! I started walking during a flat section. She commented to me "Why are you walking when you should be running?" Okay, Okay I started running and didn't give in. This is when the competitive part of me kicked in. I started picking people in front of me to catch! And I was! Jenn hung with me until we hit the last hill climb. I'm a good power hiker. Jenn knew I could easily out power hike her so she told me to go get em! And I did! Not giving in until I crested the top of the hill! Once at the top it was all downhill from there and I was cruising to the finish, still passing people! I crossed the finish in 6:22 which was a huge PR for me!! Last year I ran a 6:52 so to say the least, my hard training has paid off, big!!! I did razz the race director when I crossed the finish line about my huge PR!!

Now it's time to focus on Ice Age 50k and see what happens there!

Racing season is almost here!

2010-04-07T12:04:00.000-07:00

Now that the snow has melted, the birds are singing and the trails are dry my racing season will finally get underway! I look forward to the challenges!! After a solid winter of training it's time to put it to the test and see what I have.

April 18 th Forget the PR Mohican 50k
This is the second year of this race and it's a great way to start the season off. It's a hilly, challenging and a fun course that I know well. The race director of this race is an awesome guy who does a great job!! I can't wait to prove him wrong and show him that you "CAN" PR on this course!

May 8th Ice Age 50k
This is my 3rd year coming back to this race but it will be my first time only doing the 50k and not the 50 mile. My boys will be there doing the 50 miler. I'm ready to really sink my teeth in here and run strong.

June 18th San Juan Solstice 50 mile
This is my big race so far of the year!!!! It is supposed to be one of the toughest 50 milers in the U.S.!!! Just to be able to do this race I had to sign up in January and the decision was made to make this the kick off for our summer vacation! I have never run in altitude and I'm anxious to see how I handle it. The other cool thing is that my coach (Paul Dewitt) will be there and I'll finally get to meet him face to face! He's been coaching me for over a year now and I've never met him.

Texas Has Hills!!!!!! Bandera 100k Jan 9, 2010

2010-01-22T13:10:00.000-08:00

Bandera 100k January 9, 2010

This race has been on my radar for a while to do. So this past summer we decided that we would get some use out of the motorhome and visit Texas. Race week was very laid back and relaxing. I don't think I have ever been this relaxed before a race! I was confident and feeling ready to tackle this. When we arrived in Bandera one of the first things we did was visit the race site. We hiked a little bit of the trail just to get a feeling for what we had ahead of us. Oh boy! This was going to be fun!!! On Wednesday we met up with the Race director to see where we could park our motorhome on the race site. The race director was very friendly made us feel right at home.

THE DAY BEFORE THE RACE

Friday came and we checked out of the campground we were staying at. We packed up and moved the motorhome over to the race site. This was our first time camping without any hookups. Because of the unusual cold weather that had moved in the race director allowed us to run our generator so we had heat,water,electric and TV!!!We were steps from the start finish line, that was cool!!! Since we had time before the pre-race meeting I was able to get all of my drop bags packed and ready to go. Soon after that we were off to the pre race meeting. We picked up our numbers and listened to the last instructions for the race. I met up with my friend Dan who I ran with at the North Country 50 miler a year ago. I also met up with Dan Vega and had a chance to talk with him briefly. We left the meeting to go get our usual pre race dinner, pizza and salad. We took it back to the motorhome to eat and relax, Saturday would be a long day!!!!

RACE DAY!!!!!!!

I didn't sleep well that night but woke up to look at the clock. I thought we were late getting up! I woke Brian up only to find we had four clocks with four different times! We realized we had another hour to sleep, ahh.... When we did get up we were able to make breakfast, get dressed and stay relaxed! I happened to look at the outside temp. only to notice it was a whopping 6*!!!! Since it was so cold out our plan was to go check in and drop off my drop bags. We then headed back to the motorhome to stay warm and have a real bathroom to use. Minutes before the start we headed out to the start line. We had a real good laugh, the Texans were bundled up like it was below zero outside!!!! I only had windpants on with shorts underneath and a warm top. I knew it was going to warm up once the sun came up. I kissed Brian goodbye since he had a bit of a hike back to his start line. I told him I would see him when I finish my first lap. And we were off!!!!

THE ADVENTURE BEGINS!!!!

It's good easy running for a bit but it wasn't long before we were climbing our first rocky nasty hill. Climb, climb, climb!!! Holy cow and these rocks!!! Running was hard to do and lots of power hiking was going on. I was having a hard time navigating the rocks but I felt I was doing okay. There were areas I could run. Not many people were talkative so things were a bit quiet. The first aid stations was called Nachos and you could hear it long before you got to it from the music. I didn't spend much time there and was on my way quickly to the next aid station. I was headed to Chapas!! I was able to run a bit more. It was a beautiful sunny day and the sunrise was spectacular and so were the views when I was on top of the hills. I got to Chapas and decided I would get rid of the windpants and heavy shirt. Ahh... shorts!

FINALLY RUNNING IN SHORTS

I was back on the trail and on my way to the cross roads aid station. There was lots of running time here and I was able to stretch the legs out a bit and get a rhythm. The morning seemed to go by rather quickly. On my way to cross roads I was starting to feel a bit more confident about running on the rocks but that changed abruptly when I took a nasty hard fall skidding down a hill on a pile of rocks! Wow! That rung my bell, I got up and assessed myself. Okay, some nicely skuffed up hands with blood running down them but everything else was okay. A guy happened to come around the corner and saw me. He asked if I had fallen and I replied, yep and I was fine. He told me the next aid station wasn't too far ahead. Okay back up and on my way!!! As I was running I noticed that I broke a nail! Oh drats! Not like I care but, for some reason I found it funny. As I cruised into cross roads it was time for more grilled cheese and coke. Just as I was getting ready to get back on the trail an aid station worker came up to me and said how ya doing Michigan? I replied Awesome! But how did he know I was from Michigan?? I didn't ask and will never know but I was well on my way. As I was eating and going down the trail another guy came up beside me and we chatted about the day. I was now running with him. He asked if I was doing the 100 and I said yes. He told me not to tag onto him. He was doing the 50k. So I took his advice and fell back. As he left he also warned me about two up coming tough hills. I thanked him and was on my way. I had been running happy and confident, the only thing that was bothering me a bit was the fact that at the pre race meeting we were told we would not see any of the 25 or 50k people unless we were front runners or the back of the pack. This made me think I was running rather slowly. After more hill climbs I made it back to cross roads with 10 miles left until I finish my first lap! I grabbed more food and hightailed it out of there! I was headed to last chance aid station!! I was still feeling great and was running more and more! WOW! More hills and these were some nasty rocky hills. But, I will say I was loving the hills and climbing them. Just before I came into last chance there was this awesome big climb. I made comments to people about how I couldn't wait to do this in the dark! Once I crested the top of the hill it was a severe downhill with more rocks! I was actually getting the hang of running thru the rocks and felt strong! As I pulled into Last Chance I knew I had 5 miles to go to finish the first lap. I grabbed two cheese quesidillas and headed back down the trail. I'm now feeling stronger and I'm totally charged up! Funny how I've already run 26++ miles and I'm feeling so strong! Before I knew it I was finishing my first lap. I had no idea what my time was because I chose to not wear a watch on purpose and just run. As I rounded the corner I looked at the time clock and saw that my lap time was 6 hours and 40 mins. Holy Crap!! Are you serious??? That is only 3 mins longer than my 50k pr time!!!! I was not pushing the pace and I actually thought I was running slow. This was the aid station that Brian was supposed to meet me. I looked around and he wasn't there. Where was he? Did he finish his race, was he napping in the camper, did he get hurt??? The only thing I did know was that I finished my first lap an hour faster than what I had planned. I grabbed food and a coke. I decided I only had so much daylight to work with and wanted to get as much running in when I could see that I could. I decided to head back down the trail.

ONE MORE LAP AND THIS IS WHERE THINGS GET EXCITING!

I already did this once and so I already knew what I had in front of me. Lots of hills and big rocks! The only difference when I started my second lap was that there were hardly any people near me. I was excited because I was way ahead of what I had planned but it was also in the back of my head about Brian. I reassured myself that he was okay and I would see him at Nachos aid station. I had my mp3 player going and was cruising along with the music and I was happy! But before I got to Nachos my mp3 player decided to die. Great! So I put it away and made the best of it. As I cruised into Nachos I was looking for Brian but he was nowhere! Now, I'm really getting worried about him. But, I can't think about that right now and I tell myself that he fell asleep. I did tell him before we started not to worry about me, I would be fine. As I grab food and head back down the trail I was still in good spirits and still just cruising along. I had to make up music in my head. There were times out there when I wouldn't see anyone for a really long time so coming into an aid station was nice! As I rolled into Chapas Ahhh..... there he is! Thank goodness! Brian! and who's that with him??? He had Scout with him. She was so happy to see her mama! I looked at her and said you aren't supposed to be here. The aid station workers set me straight and told us how they just loved her! While my backpack was being filled they asked what they could get me. I said whatcha got to eat. The normal pbj, grilled cheese, cheese quesidilla all of these I said no to along with the soup. But then someone piped up hey we've got hamburgers! I said really??? Do you have ketchup and mustard?? She said absolutely! I'll take that! She got them ready for me and Brian asked if I wanted warmer clothes since the sun was going down and it was cooling off. I said no I'm fine and remember boasting I'm from Michigan! As I began eating the burgers another guy came up to me and said those are buffalo burgers. I said all the better! He was just kidding. So I was headed back down the trail after I gave Brian a list of things to bring to the next aid station. One being a fully charged mp3 player for me.

COOOOOLLLLLLDDDDDDD!!!!! BRRRRRRR!!!!!

Heading out I was okay but I made a huge mistake! I had slowed to a walk for most of this section. I didn't understand what was going on. I looked at my hands and they were bright red! I tucked them inside my long sleeve shirt. What I didn't know was why was I feeling so low and walking seemed like that was all I could do at the moment. I ended up walking most of this section, which I should have been running it! It seemed as if it took forever to get to the next aid station!! When I did get there I was shivering and a bit dizzy. Dizzy enough that I leaned into Brian as I came in. This alerted the aid station captain and I knew I was being watched!!! Brian said lets get you into some warmer clothes. Okay this pit stop was rather long! I changed out of my shorts and into some tights. That was a trip in itself. I was unstable and trying to get the tights on. So bare butted outside I'm changing. I finally got them on put on a couple of shirts and we went back inside the tent to get food. I was warned that I need to drink more and I was made to take a salt cap while there. I was all set more grilled cheese, one in each hand, a half of almond joy and another cup of Coke and I was headed down the trail. Oh yeah, don't forget a new fully charged mp3 player. Okay I ate while walking and once my food was gone I concentrated on getting warm. As I warmed up the life was slowly coming back. Plus, on top of it all it is now dark and I'm all alone! Shadows will play alot of mind games with you especially when you're alone and tired. There were some big sticks on the ground from the cactus and the first time saw one I thought it was a big snake! I freaked out but then I'm telling myself its way too cold for snakes to be out. It took a little while but I did get over it! The really cool part was I saw the most spectacular sunset while on on of the big hills. The other scary part was I looked way down at the bottom of the hill to see a tiny aid station!!! That's where I'm headed! I knew going in the dark was going to be slower, that's why I busted my butt earlier in the day. As I came back into the aid station Brian was hiking backwards of the trail looking for me. Only I was just finishing. He was surprised to see me. His comment was you look 100% better! And I was smiling again! As I went into the aid station I was telling him about my earlier low and how I thought about quitting only to know in my head that I wouldn't do that. His comment was you only have 10 more miles to go!!! And I didn't drive all the way down here to Texas for you to quit! I knew that! I was in and out of the aid station. I knew this next part had alot of cruising I could do in the dark! My power was back and I was taking full advantage of it. Climbing the hills and hopping over rocks once again. Plus, the music really helped!!!! Before getting to the last aid station I had the death defying hill climb and descent!!! But as I was climbing near the top of the hill I looked up at the sky! It was incredible and the stars were so beautiful! I felt as if I could reach out and touch them! The sky was so clear!!! I cruised into Last chance aid station knowing this is the last one before the finish line!!!! I really think that helped pump me up!

LAST CHANCE AID STATION!

I got there and Brian was waiting for me there. I didn't want to waste alot of time there because I only had 5 miles to go! I got my final cheese quesidilla and one last coke. One of the things they had there was a fifth of bourbon. I looked at it, tempted to drink a shot but then quickly dismissed it knowing that if I even sniffed the cap I would be loaded! I told Brian see you at the finish line!!! I started on my way only to be told turn right!!!! I was going straight. If I went straight I could be at the finish line in less than a 1/2 mile! But, they all set me on the right course and I had to go 5 more miles! But I really wanted the short cut!!!! I was good, I choked down that cheese quesidilla ( I don't want to see grilled cheese or cheese quesidillas for a long time) and was good to go! I was humming along more hills, more rocks! But, I was so revved up that I was passing people on my journey to the finish!!! I think I passed 5-6 people along the way. As I came down the final stretch I was still running a nice pace. I came around the corner and saw the clock hmmm.... 15 hours and 7 mins! I was happy to be done and the race director was there. He congratulated me and handed me my belt buckle! I asked him if next time they could clear some of the rocks on the course. He did laugh!!!!! I really enjoyed this race. I think this race is one of my favorites now and ranks near the top!!

We walked back to the camper and relaxed. We got a few hours of sleep and then woke up to head home. As we left people were still out there running and finishing. Time to start focusing on the next big race!!!

Oil Creek 50 miler, October 10th 2009

2009-10-15T13:44:00.000-07:00

Gnarly, Unforgiving and Historic!!!!

We're back from Oil Creek!!! I'm still a little sore but as the days go by it is getting better. I'm taking a little extra time before putting my running shoes back on. Okay, race synopsis …. It rained for a couple of days before the race and it rained all Friday night. We got up race morning at 3:30 a.m. and headed to the start finish line. The start finish was at a middle school where the accommodations were perfect! We were able to stay in the school right up until just minutes before we were told to go. It was dark and lightly raining for the beginning of the race. At 5:00 Matt began his journey on his 100 mile race! Then it was back in the school to stay warm and dry until 6:00 a.m.!

Time to get this show on the road!!!

The time flew by and before I knew it I was toeing the start line! We had a 3.50 mile run on pavement to get to the trail head. I felt good and tried to hold the pace back. Nobody was very chatty and it was pretty quiet. Once I got to the trail head I was caught up in a large group of people so the climb up was a bit harder than it should have been. I was sucking wind at one point but concentrating on keeping my feet under me and looking for rocks. As soon as I could I stepped aside to let a few people go by. There were also trees down on the course from a wind storm a few days before the race. I was keeping an eye on the trail but, happened to look up just in time for a tree that was at head level for me and ducked down at the last minute! Whew! About 8 miles into my run a guy following me started talking. At first I was enjoying a conversation with somebody!!! But, it didn't take long for him to start annoying me!! Grr.. I came into the first aid station and it was entertaining! They had a Halloween theme with these awesome carved pumpkins lit along the trail. I got in and out of that aid station quickly, knowing that I had a big switchback climb! During this climb the aid station workers had tombstones up! They were fun to read and took my mind off of what I was doing.

Onto the next Aid Station!!!

I was able to finally turn my headlamp off and enjoy the daylight. I knew this section well and cruised along running towards the derricks. Before I knew it I was cruising into the next aid station and the first 50k runner was catching me. As I arrived at the aid station these people really knew what they were doing!!! They grabbed my backpack and refilled it for me, got my drop bag out for me and grabbed things I wanted. I grabbed a couple of things to eat and got out of there fast! I had another big climb ahead.

Over the river!!!

I took off and with food in hand (my turkey sandwich). Once I was climbing I put my headphones on to find out my I-Pod wasn't working!! Grr... I was at a low point and I was only at 14 miles! So I put the I-Pod away and settled in. We had some out and backs to make up mileage that the 50k and 100 milers didn't have. The first out and back was lonely with no one around!! I came into the next section which was a loop. I turned a corner to find a huge uphill climb!! I got through it but, was surprised with a third out and back thrown in that was not discussed (or I didn't hear it). At this point I had hooked up with another runner and we began chatting. We were a great match!!! We worked together and finally ditched the annoying guy!! This next section seemed to take forever. We had a lot of long hill climbs that kicked my butt! There were also many bridges that were also treacherous!! After almost falling on my ass I decided all bridge crossings would be walked over! The mud was slick! I had areas that I wanted to run but the rocks were holding me back. When I came into the school aid station it was mile 35, I was starving and grabbed a hot BBQ beef sandwich, chips and Mt. Dew. I spent a little longer in the aid station than I should have (Maybe 5 mins), but then, set out to finish the last 15 miles.

Getting there

The last section was tough and the climbs seemed endless! We had a 1.5 mile run back to the trail head on the bike path. Upon getting to the trail head another guy that had been running near me all day was walking back towards me. I thought something was wrong. He informed me that he thought he was on the wrong trail and was coming back. I told him I knew where I was going and he could follow along. The first 7.5 miles seemed to go by quickly and before I knew it I was back at the Halloween aid station. I had a grilled cheese sandwich there and my plan was to cruise through the next aid station, since all I had to do was cross the river to get to it.

Homeward Bound!!!!!

As I crossed the river I could see my friends were there waiting for me. They were going to pace me for the last 7.5 miles but, noticed I looked good and seemed happy. I asked as I came in what time Brian had been through there since I was looking forward to passing him on the homeward bound leg!!! They told me he had already been through and should be finishing at any minute. You don’t want to know what my choice words were, not once but several times!!!! I was actually happy for him, knowing that he was accomplishing a big goal! But, I was also disappointed knowing that I wouldn’t see him until I finished. I started the homeward bound section with another huge hill climb past a cemetery. It was an effort to climb these big hills and my hamstrings were letting me know it! Just before getting off the trail I had a long downhill, which was fun! Getting off the trail I knew the last 1.5 mile homestretch was in sight and I was anxious to get to the finish. The bike path seemed like it took forever but, soon I was rounding the corner and heading toward that finish line! As I got closer I could see Brian and he was yelling for me to move my butt a little faster! The pedal was all the way down and I was giving it all the gas I had, which was nothing. I crossed the finish and gave Brian a big huge hug!!!! After standing for a few minutes Brian went over and got my finishers buckle for me since the race director was not at the finish. We went inside the school where I was able to get warm and get something to eat. As I was eating about 20 minutes later the guy that was struggling crossed the finish line. I was happy to see he made it!

Let the post race celebration begin!!!

I will say, Brian is not letting me forget that he beat me to the finish line! It’s all in good fun! We both will be running again in Texas!

Onward and upward!!!!

2009-07-27T12:30:00.000-07:00

Well, it's time to start looking forward to the next adventure!!I have a very busy couple of months coming up. I will be trying to balance family, work and getting my training in.

August is full of long training runs. The longest being a 7 hour trail run!! But, I also have weekends where I'm on the trails both Saturday and Sunday for 3 hours each day!!! Whew! By Sunday night I'll be stretched out on the couch resting my legs.

September is when things start getting fired up! Football season is here and we have to squeeze home games in with everything else. September 12th I have Dances with Dirt 50k in Hell. I look forward to this run and my mom will be there! She looks forward to this every year, it's the closest race that she can make it to. September 17-22 we will be camping near Oil Creek State Park in PA. I am really looking forward to this since we haven't been able to camp all summer. We are going here to check out the race course for October when I will be doing my last 50 mile race of the year. We return in time for me to pace my friend Paul running a 100 miler.

October rounds out with the Oil Creek 50 miler, I'm hoping to run strong and smash 10:30! I have been training hard for this and hoping it all pays off. Lastly, October 22 is a big day for our daughter Cara! My baby will turn 16, where has the time gone?

MOHICAN 100 WHAT AN ADVENTURE ALL THE WAY TO THE END!!!

2009-06-23T11:08:00.000-07:00

Well, the weekend is here and gone. I have to start from the beginning so that you can get a feel for everything that happened leading up to and after the race. The action was non-stop and I'm sure down the road I will laugh about all of this but, not right now.

GETTING THERE WAS ONLY HALF THE FUN!

Friday morning arrived and I was ready to go! Everything was packed in the motor home and all we had to do was jump in. Cara will tell you it all started when we went out for doughnuts and I saw a penny on the ground. Of course it was heads up and I picked it up! Knowing that good luck will be had. The plan was to pick up Matt and Jimmy and Matt' s boys they would ride down with us and Julie would arrive down there later. Everyone was picked up and we were on our way, I was excited! Lunch plans were made to stop in Dundee and get Applebee's. We made it to Findley before Brian had asked me to find a rest area. I looked on the map, no rest areas for a long way! I asked why and Brian said a light was on and he needed to figure out what was going on. We ended up stopping on an exit ramp. Diagnositics were being done and nothing was found. When the RV was put into drive it no longer moved forward. Time for a pow wow to discuss the next move. While we were discussing this a state trooper knocked on the door to tell us we could not have lunch here. After explaining what was going on he gave us a number for the post and they found a tow truck for us.

While waiting for a tow truck the decision was made that Matt, Jimmy, Matt's boys and I would continue to Mohican in my car that was being towed by the motorhome. We grabbed everything we thought we would absolutely have to have for the race! My car was packed to capacity.

We jumped in, I kissed Brian goodbye and away we went with Matt behind the wheel. After about an hour and a half Matt says nothing looks familiar to him. This led to the discovery that we were officially lost! We got out to get directions only to find we are somewhere near Columbus! Way south of where we need to be. We did finally make it to the race to pick up our numbers and drop off our drop bags. Craig was there waiting for my arrival. We ate the pasta dinner and left to find a room for the night. Julie had made reservations at the Mohican Lodge. We arrived there only to find it was $230.00 a night! Yikes and it was way out of the way from the race. After a short discussion I found a Chuckwagon that would sleep 16 people for a more reasonable price. We did have a laugh about staying in a chuckwagon! The accomodations were fine and we may even consider it for future Mohicans! We finally climbed into bed by 11:00p.m. knowing that we had to be up by 3:30 a.m.

RACE DAY!

Race day came with warm temps and lots of humidity! The air was so humid you could see the wetness in the air. Julie drove us to the start line and saw us off! Once we began the journey it was an easy jog thru the campground and up to the road to begin the first of many climbs. THe morning was easy and the first 10 miles were spent chatting and getting used to the heat and humidity! Within the first 10 miles I was soaked from sweating! We arrived at Rock Point and would begin the journey on the trails!! Yes! People were starting to spread out now but, it was still crowded. The red trail was greasy, wet, muddy and there was no avoiding it! It was amazing that I was able to keep upright! The next check point was called South Park, I still pretty much sailed thru here just grabbing water and a PBJ sandwich and I was back on the trail.

The morning was pretty much uneventful. I kept trying to hold back the pace and remembering all the advice that was given to me from friends. When I arrived at Fire Tower Craigs wife Pam was there and I was able to exchange out hydration packs with her. I had a 2 mile downhill run to get to the Covered Bridge, this went by rather quickly and before I knew it I was there and headed for the purple loop! This is my favorite part of the whole race. Alot of people got lost on this trail and had trouble navigating their way around because the rains had washed away the lime markings on the trail. I had no problems and made it thru.

Arriving back at Covered bridge and grabbing more water since I was craving ice cold water. I saw that Brian was up and was there!! I told Craig that Brian was there and he went over to introduce himself to him only to see he was talking to the wrong person! I said NO, he's over here!! That gave me a big laugh!!! Brian asked how things were going and I said good. He saw me off and I knew he'd be waiting at the Grist Mill for me. This is where I really started having fun! NOT! My stomach was starting to act up and I felt as if I was going to be sick.

On my way to Grist Mill I ran out of GU and Gatorade about a mile to 1 1/2 miles out. All I wanted was a drink of water! I heard of others running into the same problem. I got to Grist Mill and sat at a picnic table trying to get a glass of water down but, my stomach was not happy! As I sat there someone came up to me asking if I would like a ice cold bottle of Ensure. I have never tried this but he was pretty convincing saying it was loaded with calories and good for me. Okay, I took one swig and was headed for the grass. My stomach had had enough! I was throwing up and my abs cramped. I got done and knew I had enough time to let things calm down. I sat at this check point for about a 1/2 hour and yes, I did get the ensure down. Craig had waited for me and I said it was time to get moving. He was right there with me! But, I think I only made it a mile before I told him to go on without me and I took care of business. This is where I did the rest of the race alone.

I was on the yellow trail headed back to covered bridge and the river crossing. I power hiked a good portion of this section. Once I arrived at the river crossing I knew the cool water would feel good! This river is hard to negotiate with big rocks on the bottom. Yep, I went down and got totally soaked! I will say it felt really good!

Lots of lonely miles ahead!!!

I grabbed some food and was quickly headed to the red trail! I know this is a tough section and it's a 2 mile climb all uphill to the next check point. As I power hiked along I chatted with a young guy, he was asking me if there were bears here. I could have played this up soooo good but I didn't want to scare him and told him he has nothing to worry about. No bears! After what seemed like forever climbing the hill I notice a 10 time Mohican finisher behind me. I asked him how much further we had to go. You would think he would know by heart but his reply was let me get my map out! I laughed at this response. We chatted briefly but, I was out power hiking him and continued on my way. I was hitting another low and saw I was still climbing! I really wanted my dog with me or at least my I-pod, I had neither. I looked up and saw Brian at the top of the hill! Yeah! He was glad he didn't have to go any further also! I said how much further to the next check point. Brian's reply was about 20 mins. Okay, let's go! I was walking pretty fast and have gotten efficient at this. His comment after a few minutes was holy cow, you can walk fast! Yes, I can! We talked and walked it in.

He got my pack ready while I changed clothes and shoes. I also got the biggest turkey sandwich here. I got back on the trail headed for Rock Point and the halfway mark of the race! Woo Hoo! Before getting there I had three river crossings. This was also the area last year I got caught in the storm! No storm this year just lots of heat. I went by the cemetery and looked down on the ground to see a huge snake! Good thing it was dead because I would have freaked! I felt good again and was able to run a bit of the trail. I guess more than I thought because I came into Rock Point right behind Brian! He was surprised to see me come in so early and looking good! I sat down to make some more adjustments and I had some potato soup (probably the best on the course!) and I was off to Fire Tower and meet my pacer.

I was feeling okay and came into the check point before Fire Tower happy! I yelled my number so they could check me off and the guy says I didn't ask for your weight, I need your number! I could have kissed him! I smiled and they said I looked good. I said at least I didn't come in crying like I did last year! I grabbed some things and got out of there headed for my pacer, Julie!! I was ready for some company and someone I could talk to.

Now, the work begins and it's getting harder!

I made it to Fire Tower in plenty of time before dark and was able to grab my headlamp. I sat in a chair just relaxing for a minute. I was asked what I wanted and I wasn't sure. Julie asked if I wanted pizza and I said sure there it was a slice of pizza, it wasn't really hitting the spot and so Brian asked if I wanted a cheeseburger. I tried that and got more of that eaten. I just wanted to sit!!! I didn't seem like long before Julie was pressing on me to get moving. We got up and walked out of the check point. She asked how things were going and I was close to tears! but, the walking helped and before I knew it I was back to myself and we were chatting it up! We made it to the covered bridge and I knew one more time thru here and I would be on my way to the finish! It was so dark!!! We had a long hill to climb again and once we reached the top I got a second wind and was able to run again. Almost all the way to the next check point!

On our way we did something special that we do every time Julie and I run Mohican together. We stop for a minute and turn all the lights off and look at the stars!! It's just so awesome! And it's almost an expected thing to do now. We arrive at the check point and I grab another sandwich and watermelon. Julie spots a new bag of peanut butter M & M's and opens them! I think if she could she would have taken the entire bag! Now we are headed for Grist Mill the place I dropped last year. My feet are sore and blistered and I'm hitting another low again but, I'm still moving forward.

Now it's tough!!!

We make it to grist mill and I sit down once again! Only this time I have my head in my hands really having to think about getting up to continue one again! Brian gets me some Potato soup to eat, it's okay just not as good as Rock Points was. My feet really hurt and even the slightest touch hurts. Brian decides maybe to help get me going again he duct tapes my feet for protection. Brian knows, Julie knows and even though I'm not thinking clearly I know I cannot drop here, I have to keep moving! Julie grabs my arm and says come on, we're going for a walk. She promises me that if I can't make the first mile then I can drop but I NEED to get out of that aid station! We start walking and Brian is very concerned and tells Julie he is going to drive to the mountain biking parking area. She says okay and we are on our way! It's painful at first but once I get my feet moving I can keep them going. Somehow we get on the subject of childbirth. I am preoccupied and not even thinking about what I'm doing. Thanks Julie! Brian is waiting for us and asks Julie how I'm doing, Julie says she's fine meet us at the covered bridge.

He takes off and we get on the scary yellow trail. This is the same trail that Julie freaked out on when she ran he 100 miler he a couple of years ago. We both were looking for rodents, snakes and trying not to fall into the river. None of that happened!!!Once we got off the technical part of the yellow trail we had to go thru a campground and a parking lot. I was hurting but, made mention that I wasn't wasn't sleepy tired at all! Once we made it to the parking lot and I saw Brian's truck I pretty much threw in the towel. Had the truck not been there I would have felt pressured to keep going since I was stuck! I went to the aid station captain and told him I was dropping. He told me to wait before I tore my tag off. He asked once again, are you sure you want to drop? I said yes, and tore my tag off, handed it to him and we climbed into the truck at around 4:00 a.m.

After picking Matt up at the finish line we all headed for the chuck wagon to get some sleep.

We all fell asleep just as the sun was coming up. I didn't sleep very well, my legs and feet were very tender. I did get a couple hours of sleep before we all were up and packing the cars for the long ride home. Once everything was packed we headed to the finish line, Matt got his finishers buckle and I had my feet tended to by the podiatrists.

HEADED HOME!!

The ride home was somewhat uneventful. Brian drove his truck while Cara drove my car. I was sleeping off and on the whole way home. I did wake up a couple of times to eat but, was fast asleep soon after. We arrived home, tired and worn out. So relaxation was on the schedule for the rest of the day. That is until Cara went to the basement for something. We heard her say "Dad, there's water in the basement". You don't want to know what Brian muttered!!! We are hoping that this is the end of our bad luck. I woke up on Monday only to find every muscle in my body had froze up and my feet tender. By Wednesday I was feeling better and by Thursday I had a pair of running shoes on and was back out and walking!! And thinking about the next adventure in store for me!!!

IT'S RACE WEEK!!!!!

2009-06-11T12:27:00.000-07:00

Well.... Here it is, race week! I am down to the final stretch. On Saturday while most of you are still all snuggled down in your beds I will be be up and toeing the start line with Craig to begin our incredible adventure!

My feelings right now are excitement and anticipation but, I also feel prepared, confident and relaxed.

Saturday's final last long 2 hour run was spent reflecting on what I have learned over the past year with the support of friends, family and co-workers. I'm so lucky to have Brian fully supporting my habit! He is ALWAYS at the checkpoints ready to get me whatever I need. YES, I am spoiled and I know it! Matt was the one who told me I needed to give ultras a try. After Pacing him at Mohican 4 years ago, I haven't left the trails. My mom is very supportive and loves to hear the stories after I get back, even if she hears them 10 times she loves listening. Andrew and Cara act as if mom's just at another race but, they always ask how the run went and call while I'm out there racing to check on my progress. I know deep down they do care!Dave and Paul have taught me so many invaluable lessons that I will use at Mohican. My co-workers have put up with me during taper time and tiring weeks of heavy training. But I also, have my coach, Paul DeWitt to thank! I began training under him at the very end of March. He took me on with events that I already had stacked up. His reply was I will have you ready. Because of him keeping tabs on my training and tweaking runs weekly I am ready. He has made me feel confident and relaxed!I can't wait to continue training under him! I know he has just scratched the surface on my abilities! Then there is Craig, an awesome friend that started out offering to pace me and now will be with me the entire way. I will be thinking of everyone on Saturday.
All I have left is some last minute packing and deciding what clothes I will be wearing. The weather looks good. At least we won't have to worry about SNOW!

Craig and I are going to have the time of our life! I can't wait to tell the story.... Stay tuned!

2 weeks to go!!! Let the countdown begin

2009-06-04T08:38:00.000-07:00

Finally!!!
Anticipation is building!!!

All the training is in and done. In two weeks my friend Craig and I will be running the Mohican 100 together! Craig was originally going to pace me for the last 40 miles but, instead he will be running by my side for the entire 100 miles. Our paths crossed about 5 years ago through a running forum board. We spoke via email never meeting face to face. Many times we were at the same races but, were unable to connect. Finally, in May we decided to do some training runs together and make sure this was going to work. We met at the Pinckney Rec Area. It was an instant friendship!! We chatted non-stop during the run. We were talking so much that I missed a turn on the trail. I know this trail so well I could run it with my eyes closed! After that first initial run we knew running Mohican together would be a good fit.

This Saturday we have our final long run together, a 6 hour training run. We are using this to tweak a few things and get our 100 mile pace down. It's going to feel like a crawl compared to what we are used to doing.

The days left leading up to the race will be spent getting all of my gear together and making sure I have everything. My family and staff at work will have to put up with taper madness. They have been down this road before with me so I would hope they know how to deal with it!

This is going to be an excellent adventure!!

Thanks Craig!!!

Ice Age Trail 50 Miler

2009-05-14T11:12:00.001-07:00

May 9, 2009

As I sit here with ice on my right leg I’m trying to recall all the events that happened over the weekend. We left home with more items than we needed to take with us. Our drive was pretty much uneventful until we got to almost Wisconsin where I had a melt down. I jumped up took my seat belt off and started rummaging through my bag. Brian asked what I was doing. I was looking for my running clothes. Whew! I thought I forgot them, there they were along with my shoes. We arrived at the motel, Gary and Dave were already there. Gary was at packet pickup and Dave was swimming. Matt was about an hour behind us. Gary called asking if we wanted him to pick up Matt, Jimmy and my packets. Cool, one less thing to do. We all met for dinner at 5:30, after dinner we took Matt and Jimmy to show them where the start line was. Brian also drove them around to show them certain points along the course. We returned to the room where I laid everything out and then it was lights out.

Race morning we were up and about by 4:30! We woke up to hearing the wind just howling! It was cold and raining too. I thought, great another wonderful weather race! I had my usual breakfast of oatmeal, a half of bagel and Gatorade. I like milk in my oatmeal and noticed I forgot to pack it so I had to use coffee creamer (okay it got me by, carmel,chocolate). As we drove to the start line I could see flags standing straight out. Luckily I knew for a majority of the race we would be somewhat protected from the wind by the woods. We sat in the car right up until race time, just to stay warm. Unfortunately none of us packed cold weather stuff! 5 minutes before the race started we walked out to the start line. As I waited with everyone else to start we stood in the pouring down rain, the national anthem was sang while we all stood there and shivered! Soon after the gun went off and we were on our way!!! Finally!!!

The first part was a 9 mile loop on a Nordic ski trail. This is a fast and somewhat flat loop. It’s a nice warmup but, you really have to hold yourself back to not take off! As I started I hit my watch to start the time and I also had a timer starter to remind myself to take a Gu pack every 30 mins. I feel good and just trying to get myself in a groove, I know I have a long day ahead! After a few miles I look down to see how much more time I have until I need to begin eating my Gu and notice that my watch is blank! Great, my watch decided to take a crap at the beginning of this race. It’s cold, it’s raining, my watch has died and I’m wondering how my day is going to end up! This 9 mile loop comes back to the start line where there is an aid station. Brian is there waiting for me to come in. I come in a little faster than I wanted but I took it easy and felt okay. I handed him my watch and told him to give me my Garmin at the next aid station he will be at (13.1 miles). We exchange camelbaks and I also alert him that I want my Gatorade mixture to be watered down because full strength is just too sweet. I also tell him I’m going to wing it on my gu’s until I get there. I grab a pbj and I’m excited!! They must have known I like strawberry jelly! Bonus! I thank them and I’m out of the aid station. Headed towards the first out and back trail.

I am off to Rice Lake! I’m still running a bit faster than I wanted but feel fine. I’m making small talk with people but, also concentrating on what I need to do to get thru the day. Finally on the real trail and I’m moving along pretty much alone. Suddenly I come to an intersection and I’m not sure which way to go. I look for markers and see none. So I pick which way looks right and I see other runners up ahead. Okay I’m good, but suddenly I’m told to stop. Myself and about 10 others are off the trail. I’m getting frustrated and turn back. I make a comment about wasting a good 5 mins. Another guy near me says it’s a couple of minutes it’s no big deal but it is to me. I don’t say anything more only because I’m frustrated with myself! We finally catch up with everyone else on the trail. I look up and see my friend Dave! I tell him and he says what did you take the scenic route? I guess so. We run together for a few short minutes and talk briefly. We make it to the next aid station together. Brian hands me my Garmin and a new camelbak. I grab a pbj and continue down the trail. Dave tells Brian about how I took a detour before he leaves the aid station. I’m still running well and feeling strong. I’m sticking to the gu plan and also drinking as I go along! I make it out to Rice Lake grab food and head back to Confusion Corner. This is cool because you get to see people that are ahead of you and you are able to check on your friends! As I come into the 26.2 aid station Brian is waiting for me once again. This is awesome I just do my exchanges with him, which saves me time in the aid stations. I can just grab pbj and fly out of there. Brian tells me that my friend Jimmy is only 2 mins in front of me. Okay, my radar is up and I’m on the hunt!!! As I go down the trail I come into an open meadow like area. There are 2 others running near me. The guy sprints ahead with his arms in the air and he’s screaming like crazy! I look up and he’s chasing a family of geese! Goslings are running between his legs and the dad is not too happy! As the other girl and I run by the geese are hissing like crazy but they are on the side of the trail. Ahh.. back into the woods! I see Jimmy is right up ahead. I continue running quietly and catch him. As I get next to him I elbow him and ask how he’s doing. He says his legs hurt but he’s okay. I ask if he needs anything and he says no. I say okay and continue running ahead.

Back at confusion corner! Now the real work begins!!!

I remember this next out and back last year as long and painful!!! I’m still feeling good and Brian is amazed at my progress. I have a lot of ups and downs coming up. As I get about halfway thru this part I see Matt again and he is on his way to the finish. I tell him he’s doing great and he tells me I’m doing awesome! That was a mental booster! But, I’m starting to get a pain on the front of my shin. I am starting to hear dogs which means I’m close to getting to horsemen’s park. I wind down there and there’s Brian! We switch out camelbaks and I’m on my way. I have a 4 mile out and back . I did slow down through this section. My shin was really bothering me. For some reason this small section seems really long! But, I make it to the aid station with someone attempting to say my name and where I’m from. I smile at her when she just says my first name. I grab pbj take my camelback off because I wanted to take some Ibuprophin to see if that would help my shin out. I also grab some salt tabs since I had some light headedness. I throw the camelback on and set out to get back to the horsemen’s park with a pbj in hand. As I head back into the woods a guy that I had talked to earlier in the day is still on his way out. We pass each other and he punches me in the shoulder saying go get ‘em kid you look awesome! I smile and within a few mins I begin to feel much better and I’m able to pick up the pace. I also see Dave, he tells me I look awesome! I yell back to him to keep going. I see another Michigan runner who gives me more positive words but he calls me blonde. I’m smiling at his words! Soon after I hear dogs barking again, knowing that this means horsemen’s park is close. Brian greets me just before I come off the trail. Now, he’s starting to add some pressure to me. He says I have slowed down and I need to pick up the pace if I want to break 11 hours. This is lighting a fire under me! As I head for the next trail I hear a donkey braying loudly! I look up and see him! I laugh! Brian leaves me at the beginning of the trail to head for confusion corner! I decide that I’m going to show this section a thing or two. I’m running along and I can hear Brian drive off down the road. Bye Honey, see you at the next check point! I attack this section and I’m running it well. I just put the shin pain out of my head. My focus is getting to the finish. I make it to Bald’s Bluff wanting to yell out loud! But, I don’t waste time and run down the hill knowing Brian is waiting at the check point. As I come off the trail he tells me I’m running like I did earlier in the day!

Onto the finish!!

I high tail it out of there because the finish is only 2.2 miles away!!! I tell Brian “I’ll see you at the finish line!” One more aid station! I make it there and sail through without even stopping, knowing the finish isn’t far. As I get to the last ½ mile I can hear voices behind me. I keep picking up the pace. I see someone walking towards me down the trail and he says I look great. I smile and say thanks! But, I keep hearing these voices behind me. I am all alone and I don’t want anyone stealing my thunder at the finish so I’m giving it all I got. I keep looking for that finish line! FINALLY!!!! I turn the corner and Matt is sitting there along with Brian. Then I look at the clock and see my time 10:47!!! I put my fist in the air and yell YES! I cross the finish line. I finally did it, I broke 11 hours! I’m handed my belt buckle and a guy starts to take my chip off my shoe. As I sit down I wonder where the people are that were behind me. Brian and the guy wonder what I’m talking about. Those voices I heard were 5 mins behind me.

We head to the truck to get me some warm clothes and then I head right over to the beer tent. I never ever drink beer but I really wanted one. We also go in to get our food, they always have a really good BBQ after the race. We sit down and Matt comes over to congratulate me. I give him a big hug and he tells me I ran awesome. While Brian is chowing on his food I’m just sitting there staring at mine. I just have no desire to eat. But, the beer was awesome! We watched Dave come in about 30 mins behind me and then Jimmy came in an hour after I finished just making the cutoff. It was a great day! Of course I was beaming from ear to ear the rest of the day.

Okay, two down, one to go!

The Big one I have been waiting for MOHICAN 100!!!!

Forget the PR Mohican 50k

2009-04-20T10:46:00.000-07:00

Sunday April 19, 2008

I waited all winter to toe the line once again. I registered for this race to remind me what I have to look forward to in June. Mission accomplished!
We arrived in Loudonville early Saturday evening. Just in time for packet pick up. We arrived at packet pickup and received my race number. I had forgotten to sign the wavier along with everyone else that was there. The race director seemed a little uptight and frustrated that he didn’t have blank copies on hand. No problem I was told to come back in the morning when I checked in and take care of it. We left there to do some exploring since every time we had been down there we never had time. After a while it began to get dark so we checked into our room and then headed for dinner. We had a very nice meal and I did something I don’t normally do. I ordered Prime rib, baked potato and a house salad. My comment was well we’ll see how this affects me on race day! Afterwards I also ordered carrot cake! Mmmm.. We got back to the room so I could figure out what I was wearing for the race. The weather was predicting windy, rainy and a high if 50*. Then it was time to get some sleep! I didn’t sleep well, a lot was on my mind all night. I was up and showering before the alarm went off. I ate my typical breakfast of oatmeal, a poptart and Gatorade. Time to leave for the start line.
We arrived and as usual the air was a buzz!! The weather was not bad and it was dry! It was 53* when we started. The rain was predicted to move in during the early afternoon. I checked in, signed my waiver and made one last call to the porta john. I made my way to the start line for the prerace briefing. Minutes later we were off!!! We had to do a ¼ mile on the roadway to help thin out the group. It still was fairly packed when we hit the trail.

Orange trail, the first of many climbs!!!
As soon as we hit the trail it was up, up, up and yep up!!!! People were antsy! I was trying to hold back but, got a little sucked up in the excitement. After the first 2 miles I was able to settle into a pace that felt comfortable. I was talking to people as I went along and one guy was sticking fairly close to me. We made it to the first aid station which was themed the wizard of oz. I began my regimn of eating! I grabbed two ¼ pbj’s, chips I left the aid station munching while I was walking. Eww… as I began eating the pbj I noticed that it had grape jelly (I hate grape jelly)! I had to get beyond that and just eat it! I did! This trail is backwards to what I have run it in the past. So it felt a little different. A ½ hour after I left the aid station I took a gu just to keep calories up. I was also sipping on my camelback along the way. I felt good and headed towards the covered bridge aid station. Still with the guy in tow. As I made my way down and came into the aid station there was Brian with an exchange camelback in hand to trade me! Woo hoo! I hit the food table once again for the same fair. I focused on intaking calories and keeping hydrated the entire way. 11.2 miles completed, Off to start the first half of the purple loop!!!

Purple Loop, hand over hand climbing and running through water!!!!!
This is a fun loop! I loved doing this one and get excited when I start it! This is a fairly technical section of the trail. I began running but there are parts that are just not runnable because of the technicality. Since it is spring the rivers and streams are fairly high. I make my way to the first stream , getting my shoes totally soaked! It felt so good on my feet since the water was icy cold! This was the first of many stream crossings. I get to the hand over hand climb giggling and yelling woo hoo! Telling others around me this is the best part!!! After I get through that it’s off to the Dam. The guy I had with me in the beginning is still hanging with me. I make it to the dam and begin a lonnnnngg climb up the road! I feel confident because I know my way around here well and I know what’s coming up. As I am walking up the hill from the dam I am tortured with gnats and bugs. Then a course marshal at the turn sees me swatting at the bugs and asks if I would like some bug spray. I say yes! He sprays the back of my neck for me . I thank him as I begin the blue loop. This will turn out to be an adventure and I can’t believe how much laughing I do here!! I said I had fun!

Blue Loop- Mud, mud and more mud!!!!!!
This was an interesting loop and I have never run this loop. We were headed to the resort for the next aid station. I start off strong and shortly into this loop I see the first returning lead runner. Halfway out to the resort I encountered MUD! Not just a little mud, it was up to my ankle and there was no way to avoid it. I think I had about 1 ½ miles of shoe sucking mud! People were slipping and sliding everywhere. I was able to just plow through it!! Laughing as I was going! When I got closer to the resort the mud stopped but I think my shoes weighed about 20 lbs apiece!! I had a series of stair climbs. I made it to the aid station!! Woo Hoo!! 16.1 miles completed so far. The aid station captain asked how things were going. I answered that I can’t believe none of these men would remove their shirts to put down in the mud for me so I didn’t have to get my shoes muddy! One of the guys answers “Hey, all manners are out the window and it’s every man/woman for themselves!” The aid station captain says he would have done it for me! Ha! I leave the aid station with about 4 guys in tow. Talking along the way. Oh yeah! Back in the mud!!! It really makes things interesting because you have two way traffic on this loop. More laughter. As I finish up the blue loop I see the guy who is making sure people are getting on the right trail when leaving the blue loop. I yell” hey bug man!” he yells “you’re back!” I thank him again for the spray. I’ve left all but one guy behind me. I head to finish up the purple loop.

Purple loop- Big falls, sick people & scary drop offs!!!
I have 2 miles left to go before I make it to the next aid station. I looked forward to getting back on the purple loop. I knew what was ahead. More adventure! I made it the Big Lyons waterfalls!!! This was another really technical section!! I climbed another hill and was greeted to a steep, straight down descent. You have to be careful when going down and only one person can do this at a time. I was right on another guys heels. Once I made it down, I had to go under the waterfall. It was flowing pretty good. I rounded the corner to see the guy I was behind standing next to a girl sitting down , she had a bloody knee. I asked if she was okay. She said she's light headed and having stomach issues. We both noticed she had no water or food on her. He gave her some water to drink and I handed her a gu. He also gave her some trail mix to eat. I left her and so did the guy but as we came into the aid station we warned them she was out there. Brian was there waiting for me and we exchanged out backpacks again. More food in hand and I was back out on the trail. Still feeling great, smiling and joking with the course marshal. 20.2 miles completed so far. Green trail here I come!!!!

Green trail- it’s all uphill!!
This was a tough section! I knew this was a short section but, it was going to take some time. It was all uphill the entire way. So for the first time I got out the i-pod and started getting into my music. It kept my mind off of what I was doing since I was by myself for this section. The only bad thing on this section was the markers were green and they blended into the green grass on the ground. I saw the juvenile correction facility through the woods and knew I was almost there, this did make me walk a little faster!!! Yeah, I made it to the fire tower!!!! More food and 22.7 miles completed so far!! I don’t waste anytime and get out of the aid station with more food in hand.

Red trail- more ups and downs!!!
I cruised along walking the ups and cruising the downs. All the mud and water was starting to take a toll on my left foot. But, it wasn’t horrible I just knew it was there. I was catching people and passing them, I was on a mission! The last ¾ of a mile were a severe downhill. Brian was out on the trail and saw me coming through the upper switchbacks. He yelled and I acknowledged him by waving and not taking my eyes off the trail. I made it to the aid station feeling good, my quads are starting to get sore but overall I’m so happy. The course marshal saw me and made a comment. I grabbed food, told Brian I was going to keep my camelback for the last bit. He said he couldn’t believe how awesome I looked and sounded! That got me going. I left the aid station with more food in hand and Brian walking next to me for a few minutes! 27 miles completed and heading for home!!!!!

Yellow trail- technical and why not one more huge hill!!!
I was happy to know things went smoothly for the day. This section was along the river so it was rocky and rooty. You really had to watch where you put your feet, if not you could end up in the river! I was still passing people along the way. I ended up going back and forth with 3 others for the last 2 miles of this section. One of the guys was struggling and his friends were coaching him to keep going. I was with him encouraging him along the way too.

I made it to the finish and I was happy!!! I was greeted by the race director congratulating me and asking if I had fun. The answer ABSOLUTELY!!!! Finish time 6:53, just barely missing my PR.
This was a great day and I had fun. It’s NOT an easy course by any means. As I sit here I’m really sore!!!Now it’s time to focus on Ice Age 50 miler!!

Mohican 100

2008-06-30T12:24:00.000-07:00

I will try to recap this as best as I can for everyone. I had an awesome time and enjoyed every minute of it! We left on Friday energetic and anxious!!! During the ride down we discussed last minute race details and things I should and shouldn’t do. Once we arrived we got our camper set up and we were ready to get things under way!!!!

We walked down to the spaghetti dinner and packet pickup/informational meeting. We got in line to pick up our race numbers and shirts. I was excited seeing the shirts they looked really cool but, then found out that they had men’s shirts and women’s shirts. I didn’t like the women’s shirts as well as the men's. Once we went through the all the business of getting our race numbers it was off to eat the pasta dinner. The normal fare: spaghetti, bread, salad, a cup of fruit, cookies and a bottle of water. This gave people a chance to mingle and meet new people. The informational meeting was next. They went over the race rules and the course. Once we finished that we went back to the camper to pack our drop bags. We pack these bags with different things that we think we might need at different points of the race i.e. extra shorts, special treats that I want, towels, extra shoes and sox and more… Once the drop bags were filled we took them to be distributed by the race officials. Then it was off to bed to TRY and get some sleep. We agreed that 4 a.m. was the time to set the alarm. I didn’t sleep well…..

Off, goes the alarm! It’s race day!!!! I’m not nervous, not uptight, I feel relaxed and ready to get ready for a long day. I pinned my number to my shorts and ate a breakfast of oatmeal and a bagel. Before leaving Matt woke his pacer up Jimmy to go to the start line with us and take pictures. We all walk to the start and have to sign in to be accounted for. I give Jimmy a last hug and he wishes me well. We line up at the start and everyone is chatty. Matt decides that he is going to run the first 10 miles with me. Woo Hoo! With last minute instructions and a final horn we are off and I’m starting my first 100!! The very beginning is very easy and dark! We start by running on some gravel roads in order to get to the trails. This is good because it gets me warmed up. Within the first 2 miles we have a big hill climb; it is common practice to walk up the hills. As were are walking Matt points out the beautiful valley and light fog that we are overlooking as the sun starts to come up. The first check point is crowded and we sail through it. Matt, is constantly trying to hold me back! I keep surging forward but, he reins me in to keep things under control! We talk to many people while we are running, saying good morning and just talking about the day ahead. We make it to the next check point and it’s still crowded. This is where I change out shoes from road running shoes to trail shoes because we were going to begin running trails and I needed that extra grip. I go to get my drop bag, Matt easily finds his and I can’t find mine!! Grrr.. Where is it!! I’m starting to panic! But, I settle down and finally find it. I change out grab a few things, fill my water bottle and see Matt. He tells me that he is going to start running on his own. He gives me a hug and off he goes! I am soon to follow. Not, far down the trail is our first water crossing. Okay time to get my feet wet! As I cross I see two guys taking their shoes and sox off! Everyone else does the same as me and plows through the water. Onto the next checkpoint! This check point is at the bottom of a steep downhill. As I refill my water bottle I here people yelling whoa!! I look up and see some guy down and skidding down the hill. Phew, glad it wasn’t me!!! There are lots of huge hills and this is a tough course! I was having the time of my life. I chatted with different people to pass the time. I buddied up with people. I enjoyed meeting others and sharing stories about work, family and kids. It was getting fairly warm out but, before I knew it I had a river crossing!! Ahh… that felt oh so good!!! I could have stayed there all day long. But, came out and decided it was time to get my foot looked at since I was starting to have problems. They had podiatrists there and they took a look and fixed me up. They sent me on my way. At this checkpoint crew was not allowed to be there. I knew Brian would have plan up his sleeve. I started the next section. Yep, Brian was waiting for me down the trail! This section was the coolest!!! It was like an enchanted area. We had a lot of hand over hand climbing. I was having so much fun through here. I had caught up with 4 guys from Michigan and hung with them for a while. This enchanted part also had a waterfall that was so cool! We rounded a corner and the guy in front of me freaked out!! I asked him what was the deal? He immediately told me that he was afraid of heights. So I ended up coaching him down. The four of us hung together for about 10 miles. That got me to the next checkpoint and low and behold Brian was there!!! He warned me about the thunderstorm warning that was coming and he told me to be prepared. They shipped me on my way, while they went to look for Matt. As I was going along the skies grew darker and darker. I almost panicked thinking I might need a flashlight. The wind kicked up and the trees were creaking and moaning. I kept an eye on the trees because branches, limbs and chunks of wood were falling around me. I knew I had to keep moving, standing or taking cover was not going to make anything better. I kept plodding along and thinking of ikabod Crane as I went by a very old cemetery! Most of the headstones were form the 1800’s. It started pouring rain but, the trees were protecting me from the worst of it for a little while. Now, that I’m getting wet and the temp is dropping I’m starting to get cold. I’m really starting to want the next checkpoint to get here. Finally! I make it there and see a few of my Michigan friends. The one says he’s dropping out. I try to con him into walking to the next checkpoint with me and he says he just can’t do it. We are at the 52 mile mark. I grab a short sleeve shirt out of my drop bag and also grab my garbage bag to put over it to keep me dry and warm. I leave the check point shivering and thinking if I get moving I will warm up. By the time I reach the next check point it has stopped raining and I give the workers my garbage bag. This was when I had a mental low and came in crying. They asked what I needed and I said I didn’t know. They filled my water bottle. I had an upset tummy and they gave me some 7 up to settle it. They also handed me some food and told me that I couldn’t drop there. And they sent me on my way. I turned the Ipod on and that helped get me back to being somewhat happy. My feet are really starting to hurt and every step is becoming painful. Having Brian at a lot of checkpoints really helped! I knew the next checkpoint he would be there along with my pacer. All I could think about on the way there was a McDonalds cheeseburger and fries with tons of salt!! And I thought about my nice soft cozy bed and how good it will feel when I finish. I make it there and Brian is right there to take care of me. He asks where my water bottle is and I reach back to grab it and it’s gone! My mind is mushy at this point and then I remember a young kid took it and filled it for me (this was common at every checkpoint). Brian asks what I’d like to eat and I say all I have thought about is a McDonald’s cheeseburger and salty fries. He says he can’t do that but they do have hamburgers there. I say I’ll take that . He brings me that while I take a few minutes to relax. I get my headlamp on because soon it will be dark. I leave with my new pacer Linda. I tell Brian not to worry about me and I want him to get some sleep. He says he needs to get something for dinner and check on Matt again. I say okay and see you at Rock Point (the 90 mile mark). Brian has different plans that I don’t know about. Linda and I are on our way and it’s not long before the headlamp is turned on. Into the dark we go. I feel good having someone with me. I know I have some tough miles coming up and my feet are starting to scream. I take some Ibuprofen to see if that dulls the pain. The miles seem longer and the checkpoints seem further apart. I make it to the checkpoint that promised to save me a triple espresso brownie!! Oh how I was looking forward to something different. This was the same checkpoint earlier in the day that saved me from boring old pb & j with turkey instead!!! As we left this checkpoint my pace was starting to slow. And every step was painful and when I had a downhill I winced from the pain. I also started to notice I was getting unstable. I look down onto the trail with my headlamp and I’m getting dizzy. So I look up to get the dizziness to go away. I have to stop a couple of times to hug some trees to stabilize myself. This was the longest 5 miles I have ever done. But, I had no choice, I had to continue to the next checkpoint. I start to mention I may drop at the 75 mile mark. My pacer says you’ve already come this far you can’t drop! Also, I still have over an hour before the cutoff. So I kept my thinking to myself. I am asking Brian in my head to be there, please be there! I need you there! I started hallucinating every rock looks like a dead rat and for some reason the trees have eyes!! Lots of eyes are looking at me! And the moon is out but, through the tree it looks like someone up on the trail with a headlamp. I keep thinking not another hill climb!!! I finally make it off the trail and have a mile on a highway to get to the checkpoint. Brian was worried about me and yes, he was there waiting for me to come in. It was getting later and later and he decided it was time to start walking the trail backwards to look for me. He didn’t get too far. I see him and I’m relieved!!! I look at him and run my finger across my throat and say “I’m done” My pacer isn’t happy but sees another runner going back on the trail. She says do you need a pacer? He must have said yes and she was gone. Brian walked the rest of the way to the checkpoint with me and I reported my number and said I was dropping. I pulled my tag off and handed it to them. Brain and I left and went to the car. I was cold and starting to shiver. I change out the shirt from short sleeve to long sleeve. This is not enough so I take Brian’s fleece and put it on and also grab a blanket and wrap up. It’s still not enough and I have the heat cranked on high. We had to go to another check point to drop off the pacers bag for her and Brian wanted to check on Matt. He came back and said Matt has already been through and will be getting to the finish soon. We head to the start finish line. Once we get there we sit in the pavilion to wait for Matt. As I wait I’m still shivering. I begin to feel sick and tell Brian that I’m going outside to take care of business alone. I didn’t make it too far, I passed out and fell into the door. Brian rushed over and dragged me to a picnic table where they laid me down with blankets. I was breathing hard and now I’m sweating! The medics can’t get a pulse on my wrist and they get a faint one on my ankle. I started feeling better but the medics told me they had to call an ambulance. In the meantime Matt crossed the finish line! And he hears an announcement that Matt has crossed the finish line and the people looking for him should come to the finish line. Matt is confused because no one should be there. He then sees Brian but is not surprised because Brian seems to show up everywhere. Matt walks into the pavilion to see a couple of people lying on picnic tables. He takes a second look and sees that one of those people is me. He said my lips were blue!! Matt and Jimmy take the car to get a shower while I lay there. While they are gone the ambulance comes screaming in. Dogs are howling!! One of the medics says wouldn’t you love to hear that on the trail? I said I would have run faster! The paramedics come in and they check me out. They say they have to ask me a series of questions. The first one, how old are you? I think you’ve got to be kidding! But, then I answer 18. The paramedics give me a funny look. I finally say okay I’m 43. They ask a few more silly questions. Another one I remember was who is the president of the U.S? My answer, we’re not sure yet. They accepted that. They put a heart rate monitor on me but, I was feeling better. The paramedic thinks it’s time to see how I’m feeling and tells me I can sit up when I feel up to it. I sit up and feel okay. So a few minutes later they get me standing up. I feel okay but not great. The paramedics hang out for a while to make sure I’m okay. I refused to go to the hospital so I have to sign a wavier. They figure I’m going to be okay and they decide to leave. I don’t think they got 50 feet away and I said to Brian I’m not feeling well and pass out again. The paramedics rush back and one of them scoops me up and puts me back on the picnic table. Here we go again, sweating and breathing as if I just ran a 5k!!! They put oxygen on me and put the heart rate monitor back on. My pressure was falling rapidly. They give me a few minutes and I start to come back around. But, this time it took a little longer. They say they want to try something with me and since I refused to go to the hospital the first time they are going to call and see if they can give me an I.V. without going anywhere. They get approval and the guy in charge asks Brian if he knows anyone that knows how to put an I.V. in. Brian is surprised. But, then this guy puts it in. I’m still shivering uncontrollably so somehow I get more blankets. While I’m laying there my color is getting better and I’m talking. Brian brings me a glass of water and they tell me to down the glass. Not long after the water a glass of O.J. shows up. I drink this and they decide it’s time to try sitting up again. I sit up and I feel fine but the big test is standing. While sitting up Brian brings me another glass of O.J. Now they wanted to give standing a hot again and I was told if I pass out again my butt is going in the ambulance and I get a ride to the hospital. But, I stand and I don’t get lightheaded. After quite a while they believe I’m out of the woods. The four of us get in the car and go back to the R.V. for some much needed rest. I got in the camper and headed straight for the bed!! Ahh… Brian said I was asleep when my head hit the pillow. After a short 4 hour nap Matt and I got up to go to the awards ceremony. I’m really sore and can barely walk but, I’m soo happy to accomplish 75 miles! I will be back next year to give it another shot. Now need to tweak a few things before I try again. I’m not disappointed and I enjoyed the adventure!!!

GOOFY CHALLEGE RACE REPORT

2008-01-28T10:29:00.000-08:00

GETTING TO RACE DAY!

I'm back from the warmth and sunny skies of FLA! I had so much fun and really enjoyed it. We got in Thursday late (around midnight). We woke up on Friday and went to the expo. for packet p/u. That went smoothly and I was able to get my corrals moved up to the front. I spent most that day relaxing in the sun in a hammock with my husband. I ate pizza the night before and was rearing to go.

HALF MARATHON DAY PART 1

Saturday I had to get up at 2:30 a.m. to catch the last bus at 3:30! Yikes! That's so early. Brian was demanding before we left that he was going to drive me to the start line. Well, he let me get on the buses while he slept in. That part went smoothly and there was alot of electricity in the air with all the other runners. The bus dumped us off and we had to sit and wait in the holding area and drop off our drop bags. The bag drop was in a large tent, for some reason that morning I had trouble with the alphabet! You were supposed to drop your bag with the first letter of your last name, I stood there for a while saying the alphabet. Finally I decided this one was good enough! Luckily I was in the right area!!! At 4:45 the gates were opened to allow us to make the trek to the start line. This is a good half mile walk to get there. I made it to my assigned corral and sat there to wait for an hour!! They had lots of entertainment with music and big screen TV’s. While I sat there on the pavement and waited I chit chatted with other people who were doing the Goofy challenge. But, 15 mins before race time I was jumping the fence to use the woods, since there weren’t any porta johns to use nearby. I had to mark my territory anyway, it's becoming a signature! I hopped back into my corral, listened to the National Anthem, watched the fireworks and we we’re off! The temps the first day was 68* with 85% humidity. Remember I’m coming from 20 degree temps I’ve been training in. I have decided that I’m going to take the half marathon easy and enjoy the run. I was predicting a 2:10 finish time. Once we started I felt as if I was struggling to run, grrrr… I’m dogging it! I try to relax. There was entertainment on the course. Within the first couple of miles I run past a marching band playing some awesome music! I love listening to marching bands and think of my daughter playing. Okay, I’m getting sentimental! I cheer and wave to them!!! Next we have a hill (really it’s an on ramp) but, the music is so loud I don’t even think about the hill, I’m dancing while I run! I love this song! I’m really smiling and just loving what I’m doing right now! I’ve got to hold back the pace and be ready for Sundays big run! So I pull the pace back a bit. The next couple of miles are fairly uneventful there’s music along the way and a few early spectators. I pass by the speedway. There’s a racecar out there and they have the sounds of race cars going around the track. I’m feeling zippy! Once I get by there I pass a guy who has his headphones on and is singing out loud! Once I get past him I say to a guy next to me, that that guy needs to keep his day job! I got him to laugh over that one! We’re heading towards the Magic Kingdom! I know that this race is almost halfway over! We go by the Contemporary Resort I’m smiling and just enjoying the moment! I play with the crowds to get them to raise the noise! They start waking up and the noise level rises. The miles clicked by quickly!! I make a few turns and I’m entering Main Street of the Magic Kingdom, I feel as if I’m five years old and I’m running freely down the street with so many people on both sides of the street! The path is narrow because they are crowding into the street. It feels great!!! I can see Cinderella’s castle in front of me! We wind through the park. There is familiar Disney music playing and all the rides are going with no one on them. I see Mary Poppins and many other characters!! I’m getting choked up, I’m just so happy to be here! I have to get myself focused and pull back the pace again! I turn the corner to go through the castle and up above there are guys playing horns as if the king is coming! It’s just so cool! I wave! I come through the castle with a huge smile! The picture guys are there to take pictures!! Now I’m entering frontier land! I love this part of the park! I see cowboys, the toy story characters and they are playing western film music! Now we are getting ready to leave the park through the back gates. I turn a corner and I am in awe once again! There’s a huge pirate ship with Jack and a bunch of other Pirates on it! It’s so cool! Jack looks just like Johnny Depp! As I get back on the road leading to Epcot I see signs along the way, some with trivial questions and some with funny quotes. Some of the quotes are so funny that I busted out laughing many times! As I am heading towards the last few miles I chat with a few people along the way, I also encourage a few people that are struggling to make it to the end. In a blink of an eye I was in Epcot headed for the finish! Holy cow, it’s almost over! I allow my pace to pick up for the last mile. This is so cool as I pass a choir before the last corner! These people are so inspirational, the energy level rises again! Woo Hoo I see the finish line! Charge down towards it and it’s over! That went by too quickly. I do my normal post event stuff, return my chip have my finishers medal put around my neck and head for the food tent! I’m disappointed all they really have is bananas, oranges, water and PowerAde. I grab what I can and head towards the Goofy tent. I need to get my wristband changed as proof that I completed the first leg. One race down one to go!!!!! Time to head back to the hotel for my first ever ice bath and let the eating begin!
I make my way to the bus and I start heading that way but end up going the wrong way. I ask the guy who is turning me around which way do I go. He just points back to the finish area and says that way. I’m confused and upset. Another guy starts walking the exact same way I just came from and I tell him to turn around. We finally figure out which way we need to go to get on the bus. Phew! I make it back with Brian smiling, and saying that was an easy half marathon I can hardly wait to finish the full tomorrow! I smile and make my way to the tub. The ice bath wasn’t as painful as I thought it would be. I think Brian had more fun dumping the ice in. Once I got used to the temp. I was fine. Once I was dressed, Brian and I headed over for some much deserved food! Yummy! The only bad thing is when you get up at 2:30 a.m. by 10 a.m. you’re ready fro some lunch! But, the only thing I could find was breakfast. I had to make that work. Once I ate we headed back to the room. Brian was up for some driving around Disney property to scope out where they could go to spectate on Sunday. Part of the ride I don’t remember because I fell asleep in the car. He had a plan and was ready for Sunday. After munching throughout the day, evening was upon us and I really didn’t think I was up to eat dinner. We made reservations a few days in advance to eat a t a resort restaurant. I wanted to eat fairly early so that I wasn’t going to bed on a super full stomach. Everyone ordered and I ended up ordering prime rib with garlic mashed potatoes and veggies. During the middle of dinner Brian made a note and said I thought you weren’t very hungry? I guess I was because I had cleaned my plate and was starting to eat off Brian’s plate. By 7:00 p.m. we were headed back to the room so I could go to bed. I was trying to fall asleep but with Brian watching the Green Bay game in Green Bay I just couldn’t close my eyes! It was a great game. My last comment to Brian was “make sure I get up in the morning!!!!” I usually never need an alarm and just wake up but I was afraid that because this was the second morning in a row I would sleep through.

DAY TWO MARATHON MORNING!!!!!!!

I wake up at 2:30 a.m. without a problem but, get up right away because I’m afraid that if I lay there any longer I won’t get up! I shower and do my normal pre-race prep. I make oatmeal, get a banana, some Gatorade and make half of a bagel. I carry this and my drop bag to the bus stop at 3:30. I kiss Brian goodbye and he whispers good luck, have fun and don’t do anything stupid! I say thanks and I’ll be fine! Out the door I go. I get to the bus stop and there are already people waiting for the bus. I start eating my oatmeal and see a few others who are Goofy participants also. I make a comment that I feel like I did this yesterday. As we stand there I can already tell it’s warm and very humid! It’s so humid I can see it in the air! I shrug it off because the weather will be what it will be, no use in stressing over it. The bus picks us up and we are off to the runner’s staging area. Today I didn’t have trouble with the alphabet and actually felt smart. I knew where everything was and what I had to do!! Ohhh yea this is my day!!!! I feel good, no soreness and no other aches or pains. Once again we are released to the corrals. I start the trek; it’s longer than the day before. I make my way to the corral and promptly sit down. I need to stay off these legs as much as I can. I have an hour wait. Soon after I sit down I noticed a guy that I had met the day before. I jumped up and walked over to where he was sitting. I felt as if I met an old friend. We sat and talked the entire time. I laughed and we discussed what we ate the day before. We also discussed race strategy. I got quiet and he says “ I like your game face.” This isn’t my game face. They also had music videos and entertainment just like Saturday. BUT this was different! They sang the National Anthem and started the fireworks while they moved us forward. The fireworks were incredible this time. They shot them off a bridge, which I was standing under until we were moved forward. This was so awesome I looked up and all I could see was the sky lighting up with fabulous colors! Soon after we were crossing the start line, but I forgot something. Oh crap! I didn’t go to the bathroom prior to starting the race. So after I crossed the start line there is a bunch of porta potties. Cool, there’s a line but I’m clever, someone comes out and I run right in before anyone notices! Cool, I was in and out. Now, onto my trek of 26.2! We begin on a road with portable lights guiding us along. By mile 2 we are in Epcot running through the countries and I’m already soaked in sweat!!! Uh oh I just need to settle in. When we started we had a red start and a blue start that went in two different directions and then we merged as one when we began coming out of Epcot. Mile 4 went by the start line once again. As I passed through there I happened to glance to my right and caught sight of Brian!! I yelled “Brian!!” and raise my hand above my head. He yelled back “I see you!! Nice job!!” That was an uplifting time for me but, it’s too early in the race. Onto Magic Kingdom! It’s long kinda boring section and not as exciting as yesterday. We have a hill climb and there is music playing “It’s hot in here” I say to someone “no kidding” I’m trying to settle in and I’m feeling better, but not like usual. Once again the marching band is playing and I get choked up again thinking of my daughter. Just before Magic Kingdom we pass the Contemporary Resort with lots of spectators. This helps! I’m looking forward to getting on Main Street in the Magic Kingdom. I play the crowds a little but, they’re still sleepy!! This is where I decide I really need to take my shirt off. I did it in Chicago I can do it here. While running I carefully remove my number from my short to my shorts. I take my short off and tuck it in the back of my shorts. I didn’t want to lose this shirt!!! Woo Hooo!!! I make it to Magic Kingdom but, it’s not as exciting as it was the day before. I still loved it and couldn’t wait to get to Animal Kingdom. Leaving Magic Kingdom we had another boring section to run. By the way, the golf course on Disney property is outstandingly beautiful!!!! There is music throughout this and there are basically no spectators. Oh No! I feel the urge to go to the bathroom again! I get past mile 14 and decide I can’t wait anymore!!! I see a couple of porta johns and make a bee line (this is only for fun right????) I get in there and drop my shorts but I hear something fall while I’m in there. I look down and my shirt had fallen down the porta john. Oh crap! Well, I can’t be upset and I’m not going after it either!!!! I get going and get back up to speed. I make it to Animal Kingdom; this was a quick run through the park. I pick up my form and smile while photographers are there! Make it look good!! We exit the park and it’s another long boring section. I didn’t bring my headphones and really could have used them right now!!! I think of my dog and how happy she would be running with me. I try talking with other but they don’t want to talk or they are with a group of others. At mile 18 my body is starting to complain and I just don’t feel like I have much energy. I start walking through aid stations. As I’m running I see a guy that I have been passing back and forth. I see him walking while I’m running. I put my hand on his back and say “come on buddy I’m not leaving you behind we’ve run together for too long today to leave you behind!” He starts running with me and we strike up a conversation for quite a while. We talk about our families and where we are from. We were at mile 22 when I lost him at an aid station in the crowd. I continue on and there was a section of out and back. Once again I have to go to the bathroom!! What’s the deal!! I never go while I run a marathon; I continue on and see him. I’m almost to the turn around and he has already turned around. He yells come on Miss Michigan!!! I yell back I’ll be right there” I never caught back up to him. Yeah!!! We make it to MGM Studios!!! I know of the upcoming aid stations is serving chocolate and I could really use it right now. I have a choice Baby Ruth, plain chocolate or Nestle Crunch. I grab the Baby Ruth!! This candy bar never tasted so good!! Soon after I ate it I thought uh oh! I need water to wash this down. Wa la Water up ahead!!!! That candy gave me a good burst of energy and I looked great going by Brian who was waiting for me at mile 24 ½ !!!!! I was smiling once again and never so happy to see him. He took pictures as I flew by! Okay onto the last park!!! Back to Epcot and I’m done!!! I still feel as if I’m struggling but I know the end is near. We enter Epcot and have to run through all the countries again. This is where all the people are and they are very awake now!! As I get through the last ½ mile I round the corner to see the gospel singers again. Yeah, the end is near! A few steps and I’m rounding the corner again for the final push of the last .2 miles. This area is loaded with spectators cheering loudly!!! I cross the finish line somewhat relieved that I’m done but also disappointed that it’s over. Once I cross that line there are workers waiting to take your timing chip off your shoe and you are given a mylar space blanket. Who needs that when it’s 77* out! I am awarded my finishers medal and it’s off to the refreshment table. Same stuff as the previous day. I make a bee line for the Goofy tent to retrieve what I came here for, my Goofy medal!!!! They check me in and congratulate me on finishing and hang the Goofy medal around my neck. Next step getting my picture taken with both medals. In the meantime I see the guy who called me Miss Michigan. We briefly chat and congratulate each other. Now it’s time to get my drop bag, call Brian and head to the bus!!!! After my call to Brian I shuffle towards the bus but, oh no I have to go to the bathroom again!!! The bus driver tells me he will wait for me!! I dragged myself on the bus and chatted with others. I make it to my resort and as I get off the bus there are people sitting there cheering for me because I did the Goofy!!! Pretty cool feeling!!! I thank them and continue to shuffle my way to my room but as I do another Goofy finisher stops me and hands me a beer to drink in celebration!! That night and the next couple of day’s people that did the Goofy would make eye contact and you would give each other that familiar nod. Congratulations were said back and forth many times. I topped the next morning off by having a character breakfast with Goofy. I was very strong adamant about doing this!!! We spent the rest of the day at the parks walking off the pain.

Would I do it again???? Absolutely! It’s just very expensive but a very fun relaxed event. I’m looking forward to my next big event on May 10th, I will be attempting my first 50 mile trail run.

Going home was fairly uneventful except for the issue I had at the airport going through security. As we went through security they stopped me and asked if they could look through my camera bag. I didn’t hesitate and said yes not a problem. The guy started opening a zippered area and I freaked out on him. Yelling “You can’t have those!!!” He gave me a weird look and said I have to see what it is. He pulled out all 3 of my finishers medals. I told him I just ran 39.3 miles for those medals, you can’t have them!! I worked hard for those!! He saw what they were and smiled. His reply was these are so cool! Then proceeded to show others that worked with him the medals. I got a lot of that’s cool and smiles. He gently handed me my medals and told me it’s fine. He also told me I was insane for running that many miles. I smiled back with my medals securely in my hands and said thanks!!!!!