Michelle's Running Blog

Today is the first time in a long time that I haven't done my scheduled run.  My husband had to fly to Nebraska this morning and leave at 5:00 a.m.  Consequently, no run for me.  It was nice to sleep in with daylight savings taking away an hour.  After I had a nice long sleep, I rode the bike for 45 minutes.  It was a good workout and probably a good thing I was forced to not run today so that I could get some extra rest and get over my sickness.  My husband, Ben, will be back tonight so I will back to running tomorrow morning.  Hopefully with lots of energy!

Back to running in the dark.  I ran alone this morning, my neighbor's husband is out of town.  I really enjoy when I can be alone, set my own pace, listen to music, and just zone out a bit.  I ran with a little rock in my shoe for 2 miles hoping it would fall into a spot that didn't bother me.  It just kept getting worse and more annoying so I finally stopped and got it out, I felt much better after that.  

I tried to think of pounding the pavement, and not bouncing too vertically thanks to Carolyn.  Also, a few months ago while on a run with Carolyn she told me to imagine a tree or object up ahead was putting out a magnetic force and drawing you in.  I use this a lot at the end of my run when I am going up a hill.  It helps me to pull myself towards the top.  Thanks for all the tips Carolyn!

Today was the Canyonlands half marathon and it was the BEST race ever!  I had a great time and really enjoyed it.

This past week I have had a few little pregnancy issues with some spotting so I was a bit concerned about whether I should run the race or not.  I took three days off of running to try and let my body rest but I really didn't want to miss the race.  Things were going better the last two days so I decided to take it really easy and run the race but not race it.  I ran at a decent pace for the first 6 miles and then let my running friend, Michelle, go ahead without me because I didn't want to continue pushing the pace.  I decided I would just enjoy the run and be glad that I could run 13 miles at 18 weeks pregnant.  I zoned out with music, let a lot of people pass me, and didn't care that my time was going to be really slow. 

I felt great throughout the race and kept smiling because I felt SO good and wasn't putting forth that much effort.  The best part came when I crossed the finish line and got a PR even when I was trying to take it easy.  I really enjoyed the run and had fun which is what I shooting for the PR is just an added bonus.

I don't have my offiicial time yet, so I will add that later.  The sleep time between 4 and 8 hours means I tossed and turned all night with a little anxiety and debating whether I should wear leggings or go without.  I went without and that was the right choice.  I am not sure how much I actually slept but I think I will sleep good tonight!