Well here it is kiddies, my last full work day of the week at both jobs. Race week continues to dwindle ever so slowly towards the main event. I can hardly sit still in my seat let alone actually accomplish anything resembling work. My thoughts are CONSUMED by race day and the excitement builds with each second that passes. I keep having to take "smoke breaks" aka get out of the office/from behind the computer and go do a few laps around the building to ease the tension so I don't end up having random outbursts of excitement. Everyone around the office is painfully aware that I am running a marathon in a few short days...
In fact, when I got to work this morning this is what I found taped all over my cubicle... (The "Office Mom" won't be in tomorrow, my last work day, so she made all these posters and hung them up around my cube. The top left is my countdown that I've had up for the week... This is why I HAD to thank my work yesterday, they ROCK!!!)
In fact, when I got to work this morning this is what I found taped all over my cubicle... (The "Office Mom" won't be in tomorrow, my last work day, so she made all these posters and hung them up around my cube. The top left is my countdown that I've had up for the week... This is why I HAD to thank my work yesterday, they ROCK!!!)
Now on to some burning questions that I need ya'll to weigh in on:
- Taper Twinges - Does everyone get these? I've got so many random twinges going on all over my body you would think my muscles where having a Twinge-Off or something. Is it all in my head? Is it my body trying to psych me out?
- How do you transport your stank running shoes so they don't taint the rest of your luggage? Will putting them in a plastic bag be enough? Cuz seriously... my shoes are funktacular.
- Although Jamoosh clairvoyantly addressed my race day weather concerns in his post yesterday, I would still like to point out that weather.com is forecasting; Lo: 38 / High: 48 for Sunday - I do have it on the in that the weather forecast has been pretty accurate thus far for the week so W.T.F. am I gonna do with temps like that?!?!? Seriously, I am not equipped for these kind of temps. Will I be ok in shorts if I start off in throwaway clothes?!?!? Can a Florida girl get a reprieve and get a lo of 50 instead?!?!? Please running gods, have mercy on my thinned out blood!!!
(Let's compare weather shall we; Today in Orlando: Lo: 80 / High: 94 - Talk about a shock to the system!!!) - What am I going to do with B.o.B.? Obviously I want her to be there at the finish line but a part of me also wants her to run with me somewhere after the 22 mark and give me a much needed boost of morale when I know I'm going to be struggling. I mean who better to draw inspiration from than my boo? As I was pondering this very question yesterday I ran across this post from Sassy Molassy that really got me thinking that perhaps B.o.B. should run with me... What do ya'll think?
Happy Birthday to Coach EK!!!
Speaking of... check this HILARIOUS video he sent me:
(I really hope I'm not this bad...)
T-MINUS 3 DAYS TIL CHICAGO!!!
EDIT: Just had a staff meeting where I was presented with this:
Shock Top, a basket with foot spa paraphernalia, Fiber One Bars, Halloween Socks and a gift certificate for a massage for when I get home! Seriously, my office ROCKS MY SOCKS!!!
45 comments:
haha, I was walking JUST like that after my first marathon! BUT the mistake I made was: Run marathon, get in car and make 8 hour drive home. oops! Anyway, the next day I was almost late to class because it took me FOREVER to get up the one flight of stairs in the building, hahaha.
You are going to do great! I am in that "can't Saturday get here NOW" state of mind too!!
That video is A-W-E-S-O-M-E!!! Just like you are going to be awesome in 3 days! Definitely have B.o.B. run with you. I know that the last mile of our little beach run I would have never have hashed out if you hadn't been there running with me so it's a hands down no-argument question. As for the weather, holy crap, that sucks! It is what it is so don't stress too much about it. Throw away clothes sound great, just don't shed them too early. I know a thing or two about surfing in cold water and even if you feel warm, it's amazing how fast the cold can suck the warmth out of you without you realizing it when your exerting yourself. You're gonna rock it girl!
I pray that it's warmer for you! I hate running in the cold too. Dress in layers and prepare your lungs! Cold weather kills my lungs for the first 2 miles {my ears too}, but afterward you should be fine! Good luck!
Yikes, thats pretty cold! Meanwhile we are supposed to have record highs in the mid 90s today...wtf? As for the stank on shoes, I just recently threw my Asics in the washing machine on the gentlest cycle possible and they came out like new!
Taper Twinges - Perfectly normal. Your body is so confused because you are now resting after all the hard work. Don't worry. It will be unconfused come Sunday.
Shoes - I recommend you bring your race day clothes (wear your shoes) on the plane. Not that the airlines lose luggage, mind you, but.....
As for the smell, how about some Fabreeze?
The cold - A throwdown is perfect. You will be toasty warm after a few miles, when you can discard said garment. Then the crowds and adrenaline will take over.
B.o.B. - There is nothng better than having a friendly face at the tough moments. Call her out, beg her, or threaten her blackmail. Whatever works.
Birthday wishes - Thank you for the birthday wishes. They are very much appreciated.
Coach EK
Hey whatever you need I am there for you!!!! Just don't ask me to run starting at mile 1. LOL!
Awesome posters in the office. That rocks.
38/48 -> I would be chilly in shorts myself. Probably tights. But even so, when I run in those temps I still find that I start off over dressed and end up taking off the long sleeves. So a throwaway would work...
Okay, WOW, that weather change WILL be a shock to the system. Once you get moving, I still think you'll warm up sufficiently. Try to layer with throw-away clothes if you can.
And yes, the taper twinges are totally normal. I had them this time around as well. I was convinced I had runners' knee, shin splints and ITBS the week before my race. ;)
How sweet is your work mom? Love the signs!
I SO KNEW Jamoosh was talking about you!!! Too much!
I would take cold running weather over hot anyday but I can only imagine the shock to your system! I think no matter what, you are going to KILL IT!!!
Those posters rock! How sweet of your office. You are going to have so much fun this weekend. I am so very excited for you!!!
Twinges are normal! You are so psyched too, that you are gonna notice them ten fold!
I think coach is right with the wearing the stank shoes right on the plane, but carry them home in some zip locks- one for each shoe.
The cold weather will not be that bad - after you get going you will welcome it. Your lungs may burn a bit for a mile or two, but after you get warmed up and discard any clothes you will be in fine shape!
Map a plan on the route for place for B.o.B. to meet you...I always get my hubbs at critical places like the 15 or the 20!
Yay! So close!
BTW, you have cool office co-workers! :)
So, I wasn't actually talking about you either individually or in general when I made the Weather Post. Believe it or not, I do read other blogs (I know - for shame on me). you get a pass because you are a first timer and will potentially be out of your weather element.
The key to your weather forecast is wind. Breezy and you'll be fine in shorts and perhaps a long sleeve cold weather tech shirt (they are a little thicker). My wife is also a Florida girl and this is what I would recommend for her, although she would opt for capri running pants.
Run down to Wal-Mart and get some cheapo gloves (that match your outfit of course). If they become too warm, you can discard them with no worries. If it is going to be really windy and cold, invest in a good pair of running gloves. Cold hands suck - especially at water stops and when you are trying to consume a gel.
One other thought - Vaseline! Kinky, I know. Actually, smear some vaseline on your ears and your ears won't get cold - at least in those temperatures.
I'd wish you good luck, but I am positive you are going to kick some marathon booty.
"drive and focus"? i thought you were going to RUN the marathon.
those twinges are totally normal! and lol about your smoke breaks. when i was back in the office we used to take 'field trips' to the walgreen's nearby. hey, we don't go smoke every hour, so we can take a nice little afternoon break to pick up some chocolate!
very cool about your co-workers!
i think you should forgo b.o.b's request and have her start at mile 1 ;)
I'm with you about the cold weather. Every 30 seconds I change my mind about what I'm going to wear.
For sure the weather will be a shocker! Jamoosh is right though, if your hands are warm YOU are warm! I like to run in my Addidas Capri tights on cold days above freezing but below 50. Any colder than 32 and I use my thick long tights. I usually find that my arms get cold. I have a cool nike drifit shirt that is thin but enough to keep me from freezing, I never get too hot in it. Good luck!
What nice co-workers! You have such a great support group.
First, taper twinges are totally normal. It all disappears race day. Second, the weather. I'm wearing shirt, shorts, and gloves. If you wear running gloves you will be golden. Some people wear a disposable long sleeve because you will get warm. Third, have b.o.b. meet you for a portion of the run. There is nothing like seeing a friendly face in the later miles. Plus the way the course is set up/public transportation is she could still find you at the finish. Chicago is not only runner friendly but spectator friendly too!
Good luck this weekend!
As an IL native, I would recommend capri tights if it's in the 40's (your legs will not overheat in them, but might be chilly in shorts), short sleeve shirt, gloves, and throw-away longer sleeve garment to warm up in!
Your Office is awesome. I got nothing!!
That video is too funny, although I could have done without the nipple bleading.
I think you may want to get a pair of tights, even thin ones to go under your shorts. I REALLY REALLY worry that without the tights your muscles will go into shock. There are some decent pairs at Target for around $25ish that have zipper pockets in the back.
GOOD GOOD LUCK!! You will be amazing!
And I agree with Coach.. Shoes carry on the plane with you. Double bag in a plactic or get the little shoe balls to throw in. You DO NOT want to get to the race and not have your shoes.. Actually carry on your favorite socks, bra and top too...just to be safe..
Good Luck! I know you wil have an awesome race! The stuff your office did for you is awesome! I know my office and by office I mean shop full of over weight tobacco addicted mechanics won't be so cheery lol. The anticipation is through the roof for me as well, everytime someone asks me whats new I unkowingly end up talking about how my first marathon is less than two weeks away so I definately know what you're feeling. Can't wait to hear how it goes! Good luck and kick a$$!
I am so excited for you!!! Your office is so cute to do all of that!
HOOORAAY!! You are going to kick ass in Chicago!! I'm so excited for you and Val(Chicagomarathonval.com) and for B.o.B for hopping in to keep you going! Can't wait to hear how it goes :) :)
Btw, stanky sneaks - bag them and stick them in the front pocket or something of your bag...separate from clothes. OR shove a dryer sheet or something super potent in with them haha.
I've got my fingers crossed the weather stays cool for you guys!!
My first Chicago it was around 38 degrees. I just wore shorts and two shirts (one long sleeve), hat, and gloves...and never felt cold until the end. Adrenaline really warms you up! Of course, after finishing, I froze my ass off.
Good luck! Enjoy.
GOOD LUCK!!! That is so nice of them to make those signs for you!!
Jen, wear your shoes on the plane! See you at the expo!
Your Office Mom seems so sweet! That is so nice of her to make you posters.
Office is setting the bar HIGH!! Gotta love that extra encouragement! :)
I definitely think B.O.B should run with you - what better way to finish a race than with a friend?? And I also think the plastic bag *should* do the trick for the shoes, but uh? ya never know...
I'm sorta in the same boat as you right now. Tomorrow morning I'm going to attempt a run up here in the "sticks" where the temp is like 20 degrees colder then what I'm used to ... I'm going to try a pair of capris, a long sleeve tech top and possibly some gloves ... because I discovered the other day, shivering while running wastes a TON of energy ...
ohhhh those are PERFECT running temps in my book :) just wear gloves, I like to make sure my hands are warm and you have arm warmers right? you will be good to go!! if you need throw away bottoms before hand wear those, otherwise once you get going and get warmed up you will be fine.
yayyyyy THREE days!
LOVE the video. Kinda makes me miss the pain.
After my first marathon I had difficulty getting off my shorts to use the bathroom afterwards. Then I couldn't get up. But at the time I didn't know the wonders of the ice bath like you. I had to "swing" down my apartment stairs for at least 3 days.
I can't believe its almost here! I think you should have B.O.B at the finish line cheering you on or meet at mile 24-25 and run with you! You are going to do amazing..oh and your office is so cool!
Wow! The race is coming up and I'm excited for you! Plus, all the support from your coworkers is beyond cool. Lucky chick!
I'd use two plastic bags and some fabric softener sheets to help with your shoe problem. (Mine are bad too).
As for Miss B.O.B. perhaps she can run with you for a mile and then meet you at the finish to cheer you on?
Have a BLAST!!!
What GREAT coworkers you have!!! That is so awesome. The countdown is on for you for sure!
You do have great coworkers!! I swear that video could be me somedays. What's with the bleeding nipples?!?! Too much. HA! LOL!
SO awesome of your co-workers to do that for you! For the weather - just channel all the years back in Michigan and you'll have no problem! You'll be great!!
I've said it before and I'll say it again-you've got such a great support system surrounding you and you're so lucky that you do! It's so refreshing to read your thank yous and see how much you appreciate everything! I appreciate all of your encouragement as well! Go get 'em! And no worries, that totally won't be you the day after your marathon!
Your support system rocks. Seriously. Beer? Those guys are keepers.
Good luck. See you Sunday, maybe. I'll be the guy running.
Have B.o.B. run w/you. There is nothing better toward the end of a marathon than having a great friend pump you up by running by your side. A good friend did that for me and it was the best!
I think everyone left some great tips for you. I think you'll be okay once you start running. The cold doesn't really bother you after you've warmed up. Running with B.O.B. is a great idea, although I think maybe mile 20-24 would be better than running the last four miles if only because the wall probably starts at mile 20 and at 24...you'd probably want to sprint to the end if you have the energy. Skanky race shoes can go in luggage with a couple of place bag. You can add an old towel for layering if you really feel that strongly about the stink.
Have fun getting ready for your race!
What GREAT coworkers you have! That is so awesome!!
I think you should totally get B.O.B to run the last 4-5 miles with you if she is up for it, it would probably be REALLY nice to have some motivation around that point!
I'M SO EXCITED FOR YOU!!!!!
PS: As for running in colder temperatures, layers, layers, layers. I would say wear shorts because your legs are going to be pumping and warm and then I would wear a t-shirt with maybe a long sleeved over top, you can always ditch the long-sleeved with B.O.B if you get too hot. Gloves and a hat don't hurt either if it's too cold!
Aww, you have very sweet ppl in your office.
Delurking to say good luck, and to offer some advice: you might want to pack your funky sneakers and race day gear in a carry on - pack your sneakers in plastic bags but keep all your stuff together just in case your luggage gets lost.
Definitely take our race clothes as your carry on baggage - its not worth the stress of taking a chance with it going astray.
Re the cold weather - I'm very unaccustomed too it as well (coming from Perth Australia) but for Boston this year, I wore throw away clothes to the start, and raced in race singlet with arm warmers, disposable gloves and a woollen beanie. The beanie went around 5 miles, the gloves about mile 22.
Good luck - hope you have a great one!!
Your office totally rocks!!!
Having your race gear in your carry-on is a good idea. You can still kick butt on your race even if they mess up your luggage.
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