2023 Year end Review

2023 YEAR end Review 🙌

🏃‍♀️ 2023 miles ran: 2654
6️⃣  pairs of running shoes
⌚ Time to reflect
🥰 Friendships
🦄 Proof that dreams do come true!

Boston didn't come easy. The failed years made 2023 all the more sweeter. 🦄💙💛

Winter was off to a strong start as I started training for the Boston Marathon. #flatcindy joined me on my training, along (feel free to ask about her) with my husband (also training for Boston) and friend Kristi (training for Eugene Marathon).

Cascade Half Marathon & 10K half (January) was run as a tempo/pacing a friend race. The weather was incredibly bad, but as always, if you're with the right person, it can still be fun! FYI, my friend earned a PR (personal record) that day!

Shamrock Run Portland 15k (March) was raced as part of my training for Boston. I was pleased with my effort and felt strong. I could feel my training working.

The grit of the early mornings was my biggest obstacle. I was working on the "just get it done" mindset. My personal growth through this time was huge and flowed into many areas of my life. I was a mixed bag of emotions but stayed really focused. Training was good for me.

I have many wonderful friends and strangers that came alongside me throughout my Boston training. The support during this time was amazing, from collecting pop-cans, selling cookies and turning in used sneakers for credit. If you missed my updates, my trip to Boston wasn't a financial stress at all 💙💛 because of the response I had 🩷

My Mom, Sister-in-law, two nephews and a friend all joined Jerry and me in Boston. It was everything I dreamed and so much more. I wrote a lot about this experience in my news feed/blog. I'm not going to go into all of it because it's just to much. So much goodness, emotions and words!

I dealt with a minor issue during training that caused my hamstring to tighten during the Boston (April), but I still ran a BBQ (Boston Qualifier, in Boston). I was nowhere near a PR (personal record) and had come to terms with that before the race even started. As most runners do, I did start Boston in hopes that it my hamstring issue would magically be gone!!! 🤷‍♀️ I don't regret anything I did!

I left Boston on a high that left me completely full, yet completely exhausted. I went through a really difficult time personally after coming home. I knew running wasn't over, but really struggled to figure out what to do with my running. To some, this may sound silly. I get it, running isn't all that important in the big realm of things. The thing is, running is my lifestyle, my well-being. It does matter to me and I am a better person due to running. My personality also is one who sets goals. Small goals and big goals all in an effort to do a little better each day.

For the first time after a marathon I felt blank. I felt lonely. I wanted to run, but why, where, for what reason? I felt crazy for a while, crazy and alone. Running always has had great purpose to me. Thanks to a friend with a distance runner husband, I was called out on this issue. She told me I wasn't alone. She told me she was worried this would happen to me. This is something I just cannot explain.

I had signed up for Eugene half (two weeks following Boston). I went to support Kristi who had training alongside me. I ran the half to celebrate, she raced the full. I was pleasantly surprised how good I felt to run that celebration race. I was so thankful to get to be in the race atmosphere and support Kristi and a few other friends who were there that day.

After Eugene, I talked a couple friends into signing up for Newport half in early June. Newport the year before is where I had qualified for Boston. I thought it would be cool to go back, run the half, and "go full circle."

From Newport, to Boston and back there's a road that goes from Newport to Boston (Route 20 - America's Road), so it just made sense to me. I did well in Newport and loved every moment of that weekend. This race was something I needed!

After Newport I went into a 6 month season of base training/off season. I had spent the last year doing training for two marathons and my body had taken a toll. I had some minor issues and my body needed a break. I continued to run, but didn't do intense workouts. I mostly ran easy and loved when friends would join me. I went into a season of just running to enjoy. I ended up learning a lot personally during this time. It was such a positive for me.

I ran a little fun run on July 4th, it ended up being extremely hot that day. I was still able to run strong. I was really happy with being able to keep my body in decent shape.

In August I was a runner on a Hood To Coast team I ran my 3 legs (running segments) with no injuries, lingering pains and feeling like a million bucks!

I continued into the Fall keeping a strong base and making sure my body stayed healthy.

My friend talked me into running Eugene 2024 so I will end 2023, going into marathon training for the first time in a whole year!
I am leaving 2023 a more confident runner and person in general. It feels good.

2023 races 👇👇👇

*Cascade Half, January 15th (1:44:29)
*Shamrock 15k, March 12th (1:09:23)
*Boston Marathon, April 17th (3:47:22)
*Eugene Half, April 30th (1:47:02)
*Newport Half, June 3rd (1:39:57)
*Mini Marathon (2.6 miles), July 4th (19:17)
*HTC/runner 2, August 26-27th

*Dallas Glow Run 5k, Oct 14rh (22:16)

*Run'ucopia 15k (8.87 miles/cut short), Nov 23rd (1:05:29)

How to make Running Fun

 Do you think Running is boring? I used to find long runs on my own could lead to boredom quickly. I've really come a long ways in loving being alone with my own thoughts but understand the struggle for most runners out there.

Can running be anything but boring? 

Although most runs are at least enjoyable, at least once a week I find myself in a rut! It's hard to even get out the door. I know I will feel better after, so that gets me out the door. If you are a newer runner, this can be extremely difficult as you might not "like running" everyday you have a run on your schedule. New runners take note, as you adapt into running becoming a lifestyle, it does get easier! 

There are some mental games and strategies that have helped my friends and me over the years. 

Grab a friend. 

If you have someone to run with, you are more likely to show up and enjoy the run. Company can be a game changer. I enjoy my lone runs, but I love running with my friends. Somehow the miles go by so quickly and it's just make the whole run fun! 

Listen to music or a podcast.

I generally don't listen to music unless doing a track workout or stuck on a treadmill due to icy conditions. However, I have several friends who love their music and won't have it any other way. The beat can help those legs get a rhythm going and help the time pass with ease. 

Slow it down, give yourself permission to take a break. 

Feeling stressed about heading out for your upcoming run? Give yourself permission to take it easy. If I'm struggling to get out the door, I tell myself, "just give it a mile or two, nice and slow." If you still feel sluggish and horrible, just turn around and go home! Every time I've done this, I feel fine after a mile or two and complete my goal for the day. It's all about giving yourself a break. I have never regret going out, my only regret is later in the day realizing I didn't even give it a try! 

Stop and take a photo or two. 

If you've ever run with me, you know at some point I'll stop and take a photo. Sometimes its really quick and sometimes it's more creative and fun. It's just something I've done for years and I like doing it. I love to look back over the years, see the routes I've taken and people I've run with. This is truly something that makes running fun for me, even if I end up with bad photos that day...no harm done! 

Take a different route.

Tired of the same couple routes every week? Mix it up or find a local running group to run with and ask them for route ideas. I run different routes all the time. I have a couple that are no brainers for me on a day I just need to get up and get it done. Otherwise I'm mixing it up often. 

Dedicate your run/race. 

If your run is feeling boring and purposeless, add purpose and stay motivated by focusing on someone else. You can spend time thinking or praying for people or thinking of ways to help people. Having a purpose for your miles can be fun and really bring fulfillment. 

Sign up for a race or  challenge.

Maybe your boredom is just a lack of goal setting. If you simply take some time to sign up for a race or step challenge, you might find that it's add the motivation you need to get up and get going again. I find that signing up for a race gives my running meaning and motivation to get out the door each morning. A game-changer if you will! 

Do you have other ways you make your running fun? I'd love to hear your thoughts! 

Do You Track Your Running?

 Have you ever considered keeping a running diary? It could be a game-changer for 2024. 

Although I have never keep a "running diary" I am one to keep track of my running. From miles put on my shoes, logging miles ran, details each week/month/season about what I will be doing for training. I also blog about experience, races ran, etc. I feel like this all goes under the same category. My way of keeping a "running diary" is probably different than yours, but some way of tracking to look forward and over past schedules, can bring us great benefits. 

A running diary can be as simple as a cheap notebook or journal. There are also some really great apps, including Strava, that can help with seeing consistently and how well target goals are being met. I personally like Strava as I can edit it with key words. The key words make routes, races and more easy to pull up and compare over time. 

By logging what you are running, over time you can start to have structure in your running goals, see what you need work on and see how the different seasons affect your running. 

Goal setting is something I strongly suggest for everyone. It doesn't matter if you are a casual runner or someone wanting to qualify for Boston. Goal setting shouldn't be over stressful, a little scary? Bring it on! Goals should be specific and smart. If you look back over a month and you felt stress, stop and re-adjust! It's better to hit goals at a slower rate and be consistent, rather than overdoing it and getting injured and or discouraged. 

Some things I enjoy tracking:

*What day's I feel stronger

*A closer look at why I felt fatigued on a run

*How many miles ran each day/month/year (I log on an excel sheet.)

*Writing down goal times for upcoming races and then getting help with training paces to achieve these times. For me this involves a coach. Some seek advice from more experienced runners or simply run with a group slightly faster than your personal current pace. 

*Keeping track of any cross training

*Photos of my training. This is just something I feel like is fun and I enjoy looking at past photos to compare how much stronger I look as time goes by. 

Lastly I highly encourage you to share! Maybe share with a friend, on social media or with a coach. The key with this is the accountability it will bring. I have found that if I write it down, share it out loud and put it into practice, my goals come to life! I spend a short amount of time each week/month and year going over last year and planning the next. Each year I have done this, I have experienced growth the next year (even during years of setback and I've had my fair share!).
Don't be afraid to acknowledge the bad days/runs. This is all part of growth and the diary itself. Acknowledge the good, the bad and the ugly and act on all of it.  This will help you move forward in a positive way.   

Share your upcoming goals. I would love to support you and celebrate with you. ~Julie 

Owning the Road

I am a generally safe runner. I run against traffic (runners go towards traffic and cyclists go with traffic as a general rule), I listen carefully and don't have earbuds in when running on the road. When running in the dark I wear a charged up running vest that I've been told is very visible by friends who have seen me. I carry pepper spray, a kubotan and dog treats! I would say I'm pretty covered. 🙃😁

This morning while running against traffic, I could hear a car slowing down as they approached me from behind on the main road in town. I naturally slowed down a bit and to my surprise the car turned right in front of me, cutting me off so they could make the left turn before I ran by. 🤷‍♀️ I know I was completely visible, so unless the driver was on their phone while driving in the darkness, they did this on purpose or without realizing how dangerous this could have been. In all seriousness, this IS serious and happens all too often. 

If you are ever out driving and see a runner (waker, cyclist, wheelchair) please wait the 3-10 seconds it takes them to cross the street you plan on turning on. That is all! 😘

With that said, this morning it was absolutely gorgeous out! Foggy with a warmth perfect for running a loop through town. 🙌💓 Happy Sunday friends 😘

Pacific Northwest Inspired Thoughts

 Recently some questions about "why you run" were posted on a social media page I follow. Typically I scroll past such things but for some reason, I begin to really think about some of my "whys." 

The first question, "How are you working to achieve your goals?"

    I believe that working my running habits into my lifestyle is the best way to help me achieve my goals. As life changes. As I grow as a person. As life battles come into play, I choose to get out my calendar out weekly, monthly and even yearly to think about how running will work into my schedule. I put it on my calendar like a personal appointment. When I want to cancel on myself, I think about how I feel when I'm done with a run (always good). It's a struggle, but as I've built this habit over many years. My mind is pretty good at getting the job done. As most of you know, running isn't just about the physical, but the mental as well. I have found that if I can get my mind to allow me just get out the door, I NEVER regret it and always end up having a better day because of it. 

    Because I have worked running into my lifestyle, it allows me to train as needed. I am a distant runner who runs year round. I am not always "in training" but I have realized that part of abstaining goals is taking a break during my off season. This summer has been my "off season" so I'm been working on building a stronger running base for myself. I have learned that consistency mixed with lots of easy miles is making me stronger. It's given me a mental break from a more ridged training plan and allows me to mix up my easy runs more. 

    When Fall hits, I will be ready to start getting more serious with a bit more race pace miles and be ready to hit the ground running for Winter training. 

    For me, I work on achieving my goals by my "mindset." This can be challenging, but little things I've done over the years has slowly given me the mindset I need to move forward in not only running goals, but my goals in life too. It's amazing how mindset, (good or bad) overflows into all areas of our lives.

Next question was, "What challenges are you facing?"

     Challenges in life are typically coming at us daily. Some of my obvious challenges are, working full time (10.5 hour days). I am worth nothing (so tired) after work so I choose to get my run in before most people even think about hitting the snooze button. I also have a couple odd jobs I do every week cutting into my schedule, but it's a little bonus money that helps with my running habits and family fun. I have my family. My family is wonderful but also, balancing family activities, home life, vacations, appointments, getting two dogs out to run around...it's a lot in itself and then add hardships that come into play. This is just the surface but you get the point! We all deal with challenges, it's a normal part of life.

    My challenges are my everyday life, from work to balancing my family time and personal struggles.

Question 3, "Why are you persisting?"

    As an adult, I started running in October 2008. I didn't know why at the time. It was really hard and I hated it. My left knee would hurt so bad I would come home after a run and cry. I wanted to be a runner so bad, but it was also horrible. In a nutshell, I kept going. I had to back up over and over again and scale back the miles and intensity. I slowly built up the tendons around my knee and no longer had pain. Injuries have come and gone over the years but I had something in me that wanted to persistently keep going. I couldn't let it go. 

    Looking back over the last 15 years of running I've not just grown as a runner, I've grown friendships, self esteem, confidence, better health and have been able to help numerous people. As all these things come along, the payoff is "lets keep persevering. It's worth it because lives are being changed for the better! I can't stop because I know that my running is making me a better person, helping others and sometimes even saving others. It's a huge huge deal and I don't take it lightly. Running can literally save someone from a world of anxiety and depression. Running also can save people from living on the couch to getting their heart and lunges working like they should. I thank God daily for the gift of running! 

Question 4, "Who is helping you?"

    I feel like my biggest helper is myself, a daily choice. Daily I must choose if I'm getting out of bed to hit the streets for a run. I must help myself. When it comes down to it, no one will do it for me. I also have a husband who helps me by running with me when his schedule allows, who also fell in love with running after spending most of his life hating it. Now he is a running coach. I have used his plan a few times now and it's led me to be a faster half and full marathon time. I have friends who I train and run with, they help me by showing up and just simply being there. My community had helped me. When I accomplished a lifetime goal this last year, my co-workers, friends and community supported my efforts and helped encourage me as I raised funds to get to my destination and asked to hear my story. Community is everything! 

"Overcoming Challenges to Achieve Your Goals." 

  What I have learned in life is when things are calm and good, enjoy it, as things will change. When things are very hard, don't worry, they will get better! I've had challenges from injuries, job changes, family changes (kids growing up) and so on and so forth. We all have challenges. Some of these challenges have lead to dark seasons of life or what I like to call "the in-between time." It's the time where you know things have to change or are in the mist of changing but the in-between is so hard, so  uncertain. I have found that with my running schedule I have something to always look forward too. If things are going well, I rejoice in the pleasure of running, training and giving myself fuel for a healthier body. When things are challenging, I rejoice as running brings me clarity, comfort, structure, and comfort. Running is medicine and life changing. 

Thank you Pacific Northwest Marathon for challenging me with my thoughts today, This race is ran by folks who truly care about people, their stories and want to see people encouraged. If you're looking for a flat course, this is your race! Flat as a pancake and have the best apples at the finish line every year. 

Hood to Coast 2022

 This may come to a surprise, but I'm not a huge fan of HTC. I've ran it several times. It's always a great experience and I've never regreted it. I just have my issues and I never go out looking to add it to my calendar. 

 When I've taken the opportunity to run HTC, it's always a friend asking at the right time. If you catch me after a great run or race, you can talk me into doing things I wouldn't normally do. This is what happened when Kristi asked me to take a sub stop on her HTC work team! She got me on a clear YES day! 

 I was on team ODOC Leg Irons (Oregon Department of Corrections). I knew I would be in van 1 with 3-4 people I knew, and 3-4 people I didn't know. I ended up being runner 3, a leg I hadn't run in the past and it all sounded great. 

 After finding out how early this team started was in 2021, I opted to not only take Friday off, but Thursday as well. It was the right choice as we needed to leave Salem at midnight Friday morning to get up the mountain and be ready for our 2:55am start for 2022! 

 I went to bed early afternoon Thursday but only managed to get about 2.5-3 hours of sleep. Sleeping on the way up the mountain for about an hour helped a little. Up at Timberline it was a wonderful 59-60 degrees but there was a nasty cold wind, making standing outside chattery. The port-a-potty visit was a must and seeing runner 1 (Tonya) off was a must. This was the beginning and we were off!

 Our team piled back into the van and drove down to our first exchange. It was Kristi's turn (runner two). As we were watching the runners run down the mountain, we were surprised to see two people walking already. This section it very steep and can really tear up the quads 🫣 but our Tonya we as running strong.

 Our first exchange went smooth. We did the norm. Port-a-potty and watch for our runner to come in. It was very dark so watching for Tonya was a a little harder than expected. As runners numbers were called out, it was sometimes hard to hear. Kristi finally was off into the dark and we traveled on. It was now my turn to get ready. Things started getting real (for me) at this time. 

 As JP (van 1 driver) drove us to exchange three, I dug out my running shoes. I expected to run along hwy 26 with a downhill for a little less than five miles. My right leg has been giving me issues for 3.5 weeks now and I was a bit concerned as it's worse at night. It was night time now and I had been sitting in a van for several hours! It is was it was at this point so I

didn't overthink it. I was just going to run. The temperature was fantastic at 66° with no sun. Kristi handed off to me at 4:21 am with no issues. I immediately started down a country road uphill and then turn off into the woods. Okay!!! Not what I expected at all. It was uneven terrain with some roots here and there. It was pitch dark. I had my required lights plus an extra flashlight so I could see the path fine for the most part. I had put on my new racing shoes but they weren't meant to be worn on this terrain. I occasionally like to run on trails but I don't typically race on trails. Never in the dark. The uneven felt as if it was making my leg worse. I decided I would make the best of it. I really had no choice. My van was back on hwy 26 making their way to the next exchange. No volunteers were sitting in the woods to help me. I was alone. I did occasionally see another runner and everyone was really nice. I was being passed as I had settled into a comfortable slow pace. I was determined not to walk. At one point I saw a car parked to the right. It appeared to be off in a bush. In my mind, waiting for a slow runner in the dark that they could snatch up and no one would know. I was the perfect victim. I listened for a car door and then realized they may be in the bushes. They would surely snag me up and drag me back to the car. For the record, I had felt safe up until this part. I had no choice but to keep moving forward. After a few minutes I realized I was too far away to be dragged back to the car and started keeping my mind busy by looking for more runners. 

After about 2-2.5 miles I came to an arrow. The arrow showed to turn right, so I did. All of a sudden the terrain changed to more of a bark trail. I thought, this is strange and it suddenly felt like something was wrong. I stopped in my tracks as I looked around in the dark. I could see some shadows of what appeared to be houses. I thought, maybe it's a neighborhood I'm running through and took more steps. I felt worse as I ran. I decided to go back to the turn, in hopes of seeing another runner. I got to the turn and looked at the arrows again and suddenly felt really panicked. I almost started crying. I didn't want to die alone in the woods or have my teammates think I was dead. I didn't know where to go. 

 I decided to walk up a little and see what was ahead rather than the trail I went down. Low and behold, it was hwy 26! The arrows meant to turn right back into the hwy, not the bark trail! As I turned I could see runners up ahead, all lite up with blinky lights. I had 2-2.5 miles left and road running wasn't near as painful as the trail. I was actually able to speed up and just run, just like I came here to do. Although still slow, I wasn't bothered by my pace anymore. 

 Before I knew it, there was my exchange station, "505" was yelled out (my team number) and there was Tyler waiting for my handoff! 

We continued into the morning, Tyler handed off to Gabe, and Gabe handed off to Jerry. As Jerry ran out final first leg for van one, we drove into Sandy and meet up with van two. They were preparing to take over for the next 5ish hours. We drove to our first major exchange and it was our turn to get some rest! Finally!

 We were in downtown Portland in a parking lot. It was morning but the only food cart available wasn't open yet. I got out of the van and walked around the parking lot and watched the voleenteers setting up. I used the port-a-potty, ate a snack and started to feel the tired setting in. It was now Friday morning and I had only gotten a couple hours of sleep. We had a long day ahead and I needed to rest. By this time there wasn't room in the van to sleep as people were as sprawled out as possible, resting themselves. One teammate was over in the gravel/hay area with his sleeping bag trying to rest. I decided to get a blanket and stretch out outside but I was afraid if getting ran over. I went to another side of the fence. Within a half hour a volunteer came to me and said I might want to think about moving as the spot I was in, is where runners will be coming through in a bit. I asked where the resting area was as I didn't want to get ran over? He couldn't answer me. I went back to the other side of the fence and set up in a spot hoping for the best. I covered my face with my visor and dosed off. I didn't fall a sleep, but I was able to rest. When I got up I realized there were a whole bunch more runners who had joined us to sleep. The volunteers had taken some fencing and blocked us off too. We had been safe and others were tired too! Resting in a gravel parking lot never felt better!

It was warming up. It was lunch time and also our turn to take back over the running for our 2nd leg. Tonya was ready to get the handoff from Bonnie in the other van. Tonya took off over Tilikum bridge and headed over into the industrial area, part of the Portland marathon course.

 As we drove along we watched a runner totally biff it on the sidewalk. Poor lady went down hard and busted her lip. Someone quickly stopped to help her. Crazy part was, we were within .25 of this ladies exchange. We all felt really bad for her. 

 Our team was awake and ready. As I got ready for my exchange I massaged my leg out and looked to the map to ensure I didn't have any weird turn offs again. I put on my race shoes and drank up as this was going to be be my warmest run of the weekend. It was nearing 80° when I walked up to the exchange station. I just kept telling myself that this is great weather for HTC and typically it's warmer. It was what it was so don't overthink. Just go up to the exchange and run. 

 I saw Kristi coming in fast. She was to cross where vans were turning to park and then hand off to me. A volunteer stopped her in her tracks. At first I was confused. Why aren't they stopping vans and letting runner's through? We were then told a high speed chase was coming and runners needed to stop for safety. I was in a shaded spot and trying to remain calm. After what felt like five minutes, the runners were released to run. We never did see that chase. 🤷‍♀️ I took off knowing this would be my longest leg, over 7 miles with rolling hills along hwy 30. Because we had been stopped, I started with a group of people rather than by myself. A couple runners took off rather fast. As I settled into a good pace for me, I was behind a guy running in his underwear. Only his underwear. I knew I didn't want to draft off this guy for 7 miles so I needed to make a plan. After a few minutes I realized this guys breathing was terrible, he was struggling. I was feeling stronger so I decided to pass him. I never saw him again. I continued and just felt stronger and stronger. I hadn't run this fast in over 3 weeks. It was warm but I had electrolytes with me. I drank often but not too often. A gentle breeze came through from time to time helping keep me from overheating. Around mile 4 I had a moment. I felt really warm and was feeling sore in both my legs. I mentally readjusted, slowed my pace down for just a moment, then started right back up again. I ended strong, clocking in 7.25 miles and felt like a million bucks! It felt so wonderful to run hard and fast again. I love the feeling of racing. This wasn't super fast for me, but it was fast enough. 

 As we traveled into the evening the wind continued to pick up for Tyler, Gabe and Jerry. We got done with leg 2 and traveled to Mist. This area can be freezing cold some years. This year it wasn't. The low was about 59° with a heavy mist and some wind. As we started back up for our 3rd leg, it was around 10:45pm. The mist made it hard to tell if we should wear long sleeves or tanks. 

 After Tonya came in, she assured us that long sleeves weren't necessary. I was starting to feel stressed about my 3rd leg. As I got out of the van and walked through the field up to the port-a-potty my leg was killing me. It was night time, the pain was settling in from injury and it was sore from running. I didn't say much, I just kept massaging it out. 

 As it got closer to my turn, I decided I was doing this. It was about six miles. On a bad day, 1 hour is all I needed. If I needed too, I could even go slower. My team was moving along really well so this wouldn't mess us up. 

 My route was rolling hills out on a country road. It was about 60° with a heavy mist (almost raining). It was my absolute favorite type of terrain and weather to run in. That helped me stay positive. It was also pitch dark. I actually like to run in the dark. As long as I have a light so I can see, I find it very peaceful. 

 These rolling hills were steeper than my last leg in Portland. I ran along and could see the big fir trees off the my right and my left. It was very calming. We had caught up to the Portland to Coast walking teams so there were people lining the roads. As I ran slowly up the hill I passed many walkers. My leg was in pain, but I felt like as long as I went slow I could do this. 

 My van went by on their way to meet me for the next exchange. They slowed down to almost a stop as they went by. I knew they weren't there to take my photo, they were checking on me. I yelled out, "I'm fine, just gonna be a slow one" and they said ok and drove on. 

 I had to do this now. I was about one mile into my 6+ miles of running. I continued to stay pretty positive but I could tell my leg wasn't doing well as my form was off by now. This is when it's time to stop. I ran on, as I had no choice. I keep thinking "if I slow down to a 13 pace I'll finish at this time," so on and so forth. I got almost to mile two and I could see my van on the side of the road up ahead. 

 As I went by I yelled, "what are you guys doing?" I knew what they were doing, they were worried about me! As I started to go by, Jerry (my husband) jumped out of the van. He said, "get in the van, I'm finishing this for you, your gait is off and it's time to stop." (Something like that anyways) I just stood there. I really wanted to finish but Jerry was 100% right. I walked over to him and he went out on that course and ran my final miles for me. 

 I was done. I was worried as Jerry still had his own final leg to run in a couple hours. He came in and it was what it was. He said, "there's no way you should be running right now." I was thankful he stopped me. Sometimes we just need someone to say stop! As a side note, Jerry went on to run his final leg really early Saturday morning. It was his strongest run of the whole weekend 👌

 Our team handed off to van two in the Jewell area. Although it wasn't Jewell, we did run through there and we rested in a large field out there somewhere. This is the part of HTC where things kind of blur from lack of sleep and food. Ha! We did find a food stand and ate a cheeseburger. My only "meal" for the 29 hours we were out there! 

 We headed into Seaside, arriving around 4:30am. The city was at rest. I couldn't sleep. I was hungry and couldn't get rest in the van. I was wet from sweat and mist and just felt gross. As some teammates slept, I got out and so did two others, Jerry and Gabe. I told them I wanted to clean up. The nearest bathroom was still locked for the night. We grabbed our bags and headed to the beach. We were in hopes of finding a place we could change and maybe brush our teeth. The public bathroom on the beach was open. We got cleaned up the best we could and walked back to the van. It was so beautiful and peaceful out. The guys were really hungry and I wanted coffee and pancakes. 

 We found a coffee shop that opened at 5. I got a coffee and we went to enjoy the view of the dark beach before sunrise. The volunteers were arriving to set up for the beach party/finish line. The weather was so perfect with no wind. I just sat in peace for about about 30 mins. Finally the boys and I made our was to Pig-n-Pancake and we ate a full wonderful meal! It was really a great morning. 

 It was time to meet the rest of the team as they woke up to meet up with van 2 as our team officially finishes HTC! 

 Bonnie came cruising in around 8:40am. We all got to run through the finish line together and capture our medals and finisher's photos together. It's a moment I never want to forget. 

 This weekend I ran with friends and made new friends. It's one thing I love about a relay. I've always made new friends when I've run them. Although relay's aren't my favorite, I love the experience of basically leaving Earth for 30ish hours and doing something hard. It's not for everyone, but if you ever are asked to be on a relay team, consider doing it at least once! 

Get job ODOC Leg Iron 🦵 

Team 505 

29:41:50

9:02 pace 

Honoring Garry Russell ❤️

 

Coming off Boston (Post Marathon Depression)

Boston Marathon, the race I worked hard simply to quality. The race that I at one point, thought would never happen. The race I've made it to, but then my time wasn't "good enough" (2018). The race I finally lived out three weeks ago. (April 17, 2023). 

Post marathon depression is something I've dealt with before. It's a real thing that I've tried to shake off. The truth is, it can't just be shaken off. 

Some post-race depression feelings can include, feeling a little lost. Experiencing a lack of motivation to run or do much of anything. The yearning for something to look forward to. The feeling to set a new goal. Feeling down, anti-social, sad, or disappointed—even if you hit your goal. 

Why do runners often feel like crying after running? A runner's cry can be just as good as a runner's high. It gets confusing and frustrating, yet this is how it can go. Our brains are essentially letting go when we cry after racing. All the months of hard work is suddenly over. 

Athough, signing up for another race can help, it doesn't make the depression go away. Personally, I've taken time to look at other areas of my life. I have a child graduating in June. It's Spring and my house and yard could use some elbow grease. The department I work for is growing. It's a good time to give them some extra help. These all "help" keep my mind preoccupied as well. 

The truth is, although this all helps, but it doesn't make the depression go away. Today was the first day my body felt really good again as I went out to run. I can tell I'm recovered. I have even signed up for some races. Not anything that'll fix my blues, but everything helps in it's own little way. 

I am also spending time reminding myself that running a race or even running in general, doesn't define me as a person. My Bella (dog) doesn't even care that I ran Boston, she just wants me to come home and love one her every day. I've had unbelievable support from my friends, family and coworkers leading up to Boston. In the bigger picture, they would love me even if I didn't go to Boston. I still am overwhelmed when I think of the support that's been given. 

As I move forward I understand my body is used to movement and lots of it. I have to continue to move. At this point in my life, I still will run regardless of if I have a race on the calendar or not. I will continue to move forward. I get up and run nearly every day giving myself a break when needed. I give thanks for those asking to join me for a run, a new race, and even a cup of coffee. 

Although this has been my darkest post marathon depression I've experienced, I know it's not a weakness to live here for a while. It is a sign of working hard, grinding away in the early morning air and putting

my feet forward, left foot, right foot, left foot, right foot.  

I will not live here for long, I have people who are lifting me up and I am setting new goals. I am only human and what I'm feeling is normal. 

If the post-marathon blues hits you, know you’re not going crazy. You are not alone. Please realize it's okay to talk about. For you are not alone. 

Going Full Circle - Newport Marathon Meets Boston Marathon

Newport OR. A beautiful city that I've been drawn to for years. Interesting enough, after finding interest in the "marathon" years ago, I was drawn to give Newport Marathon a try. 

I've run Newport now six times. I've had many highs on the course and some lows. I've run it full power, conquering my goals for that year and run it injured, just do celebrate that I was able to run that day. Most years I've run Newport with friends and have had the honor to train with friends. Training is done during my favorite time of year, winter! As I come out of winter training, the weather clears up just enough to have a comfortable run at sea level.

I ran Newport in 2017 with a huge group of friends and walked away not sure that I would ever run the full marathon there again. I went on to run marathons in a few other cities and experience some other sites. As I grew as a runner and saw the capability of qualifying for Boston, Newport was suddenly drawn to my attention again.

Newport OR has a road that connects to Boston, Massachusetts, US Route 20. This was intriguing to me and I had to find the sign that said Boston on it. Over the years. I've taken several pictures by the sign in Newport leading to Boston. For years. Boston has only been a dream and I didn't know if I would ever get there. I've come close and I fallen into injury and thought it would never happen. 

2022 came and I was ready to take charge again. I hired a coach and started training for Newport 2022. In June of that year, the sign to Boston became a pivotal statement for me. Every time I would go to Newport I had to find the sign and it just somehow encouraged me that I would take that road someday. My training for Newport was the best training cycle I've ever gotten through. From feeling good the whole time without injury and really being in the correct mindset. I was fortunate enough to have my husband also training for Newport in an attempt for a BQ as well. Both of us trained through the last bit of covid and it was really something we needed at the time. Going out together every Saturday for a long run was really good for our relationship. Running was our friend and we were loving the excitement of training for a marathon again.

 

June 4th came and many of our friends joined us that day by running the half marathon or to support us by making signs and standing alongside and screaming for us to do it! It was surreal. We woke up that morning and it was raining. I was excited and my husband was stressing. He doesn't care for the rain. Go figure, we live in Oregon! Hahaha. We did a warm-up up to the starting line and I just tried to take it all in. I had some co-workers meet me along with my Mom at the start. I knew I had friends along course and at the finish line and I felt fresh and ready to go.

The race itself was wonderful. Newport does a wonderful job with aid stations every two miles. The starting line at Newport is something I absolutely love. It starts up at the Yaquina Bay State Park up above the Newport bridge. We're up high and you can see out over the bay and it's absolutely beautiful. There's always plenty of porta potties along with a public bathroom. I love the first four and a half miles of the course. We start by heading out towards Nye Beach . We turn right up into some neighborhoods and people are out cheering us on from their lawns. I love weaving through the neighborhoods. From there we circle around Nye Beach and get a glimpse of the ocean. Running by the chowder bowl always gets me because I  would love a bowl of chowder about then. I know better though. The chowder can wait till after the race and it'll be well worth it. We then run along the road back to where we started. The crowd is thickened through here. People are walking up to the starting point that are doing the half marathon. People are also standing along the road cheering us on from the hotels. It's such a fun few miles. As we make our way back up into the park and go pass the starting point, all the half marathoners are there cheering us on along with the race director and his crew. You can look out over the bay and see the water and there's just nothing like it.

From there we head down the hill and under the Newport bridge. Oftentimes the sun has been shining through about this time but it's not hot. Typical weather for Newport is perfect. Running weather 40s to 60° with sometimes a light mist. We make our way from the bridge down along the bay and run past Ripley's Believe It or Not. I always hold my breath briefly about this time as there is the smell of fish it's very potent. I also feel like this is part of the experience and I love it. We then run across the wooden sidewalk to the right. Looking out over the bay knowing we will soon make a right turn and there will be more people.

At mile four and a half we go by the Embarcadero to our right and to our left is what will be our big finish line. We go up a slight hill and make our way up Yaquina Bay Rd onto the "out and back." This is when everything settles in and things are definitely getting real. It's time to really focus in and ride these miles out. 

As we approach mile  8.7, we hit the turnaround for the half marathon. I always get a little upset here because I've never done the half marathon. I have to keep going. The marathoners keep going straight the half marathoners turn around and go back. As a marathoner, mile 15 and a half comes pretty fast. That's the turnaround for Newport. It seems so simple, less than 10 miles back to the finish line, but this is where things get pretty brutal. 

During training for Newport I often would do out and backs just for some mental fitness. The crowds aren't as thick now and we are definitely spread out as runners. The positive thing about the out and back is you see runners both going out and coming back. You see everybody. I often have friends running with me and this is the opportunity to see them no matter what our pace is. I love that about Newport. 

For 2022 I was running strong until about mile 20 or 21 when my stomach cenched up and I was forced to stop at a porta potty. Thankfully Newport does have porta potties out along the course. I had to stop but felt so much better after. I tried to get back in the mindset and finish this marathon. I did the best I could, although slowing down slightly. I made it into the finish line where my husband and friends were waiting for me.

I had done it. I had qualified for Boston with an 11 minute buffer. The bonus was, my husband had qualified as well. We had a long year ahead of us as we still had to register for Boston, get in, and plan a trip. This all just got real! 

Before going home that weekend. We made sure we stopped and got a picture of the sign leading to Boston. I took that photo as motivation for the next 10 months. Boston wasn't until the middle of April 2023. It seemed like a lifetime away.

 

To keep my mind busy, I did some little fundraising like selling cookies, collecting old sneakers and recycling them and collecting cans. It became this amazing thing on social media where people wanted to take part. The support from my community was overwhelming. It's something I'll never forget. The outpouring of love for my husband and I has been amazing.

April finally came and my husband and I ran Boston Marathon. I had a list of things I wanted to do while we were in Boston and one of them was finding the sign that said Newport Oregon. It became this game because it wasn't as easy to find. We searched online and zoomed in on pictures to find out exactly where the sign was. It was a glorious moment when we found the sign, took a whole bunch of pictures and then walked around a little bit. As we came back through we met a guy name Jeremy. Jeremy and his friend Robby had posted on social media a similar story to my husband's and mine. These guys lived in Newport, had qualified for Boston and made it a point to get pictures at both ends of the road as well.

 We had a wonderful conversation with Jeremy as he was waiting for Robby to get their photo. I am hoping to meet up with both of them for Newport 2023.

My husband Jerry and I can't help but go back to Newport 2023 to go full circle. We qualified there in 2022. We had a glorious experience and met on the other side of the US Route 20 for Boston 2023. To come back and do the half marathon as a celebration run is something we can't resist. 

Newport Marathon and half is highly recommended. It's not a huge marathon so don't come expecting huge crowds. Come, expecting a great experience at sea level on an out and back course with the coolest loop ever at the beginning of the race. Expect water and support every 2 miles and know that your family and friends can take a bus out on course. Newport does a great job getting people out on the course to cheer family and friends on. You can expect decent weather for Newport. Like I said earlier, I've run this six times. Five times it's been good weather. There was the year of the heat. That was very unexpected and it was only the one year. 

Newport also has the coolest finishers medals for both the half and the full. They are all handmade and hand stamped from glass. They are absolutely beautiful and each year I have a different color weaved into the glass. After you run Newport, grab a coffee on Nye beach and take a walk at low tide. You can go both ways on the beach over two miles each way. On your way back up, grap that bowl of chowder! You earned it! 

If you're going to be at Newport Marathon 2023 doing the half or the full in June, please reach out. I would love to meet you and celebrate with you as I celebrate coming full circle with my husband! 

Read more about US Route 20 here!

Register for Newport Marathon and Newport Half here!