Michelle — Page 52

Keeping my eye on the prize

March 11, 2018 by Michelle 20 Comments

If you read last week’s wrap up then you know I was contemplating taking a DNS on the Black Cat 10 miler thanks to a very cranky piriformis. The truth is I knew even as I was typing that post that the chances of my actually running Black Cat were slim. But we runners always hold out hope, right?

Well, I eeked out a run on Tuesday, but it was a lot of effort for a short 3 miles with my piriformis talking back most of the way. Decision made – it was not worth it to push it for what was basically going to be a training run.

Once that decision was out of the way, the rest of the week seemed to get a lot easier. I babied the heck out of my right leg, returned to some of my PT exercises, hit the yoga mat, and spent some time on the Arc Trainer. I also managed two more runs – both slow and easy with 5:1 run-walk intervals and finished the week with 12.5 miles. Surprising…and I’ll take it as a win!

So this week will be more of the same so I can get back to training for the races I have planned for the spring. Next up is the Portland 10 Miler in April and then Boston’s Run to Remember Half in May.

Have you ever taken a DNS? What’s next on your race calendar?

I’m linking up with Holly and Wendy for the Weekly Wrap.

Filed Under: DNS, focusing on goals, Weekly Wrap

Weekly Wrap – Looking for a Silver Lining

March 4, 2018 by Michelle 37 Comments

Happy Sunday!

It has been one whirlwind of a week and I am so happy to be on the backside of it. Before I put it firmly in my rearview mirror, let’s recap shall we?

Monday – Rest day, as usual. Completed plank streak day 57 and 100 Bird-Dogs for the final week of the Superman, Squats, Twists Challenge. I substituted bird-dogs for the supermans because they agree more with my lower back.

Tuesday – I had presentations to give for work which required almost 6 hours of driving to and from – needless to say I felt like a pretzel by the day’s end. After some gentle yoga poses, I eeked out 50 of the 100 challenge squats plus plank day 58 and called it a day.

Wednesday – 3 miles soaking in a beautiful 60 degree day! This run probably felt the best since coming back from being sick. I followed it up with planking and 100 twists to wrap up the SST Challenge.

Thursday – I was on the road again for work, but thankfully there was less time in the car. I question my sanity but I did join Rachel’s Total Body Challenge, which kicked things off with 10 burpees. I absolutely hate burpees so it will be a miracle if I make it through…but I do love a good challenge.

Friday – I woke up to the howling wind of the Nor’easter bearing down on us so I headed to the gym for 3 miles on the mill and Day 2 of Total Body. After a quick shower, it was off to see my massage therapist to get some relief for a cranky piriformis.

Saturday – With the remnants of the Nor’easter still in full effect, I decided to push my run to Sunday and avoid the harsh wind. So it was a rest day with 20 burpees and planking thrown in.

Sunday – The goal was 7 miles, and within the first half mile, I knew that this was going to be tough.

Full disclosure – the cranky piriformis first reared its head on the back half of last Saturday’s 6 miler. And, while it was definitely aggravated by so much drive time on Tuesday, I was really encouraged by how I felt after my next two runs.

When I went to see my MT on Friday she had warned me that it was clear to her that I had tweaked something and that runs longer than the 3s I’d been running might irritate it – cue the foreboding music. Well, she’s usually right on the money and she was right about this run. I held it together for the first 3 miles, but then the wheels came off. I hated to cut the run short, but attempting to run with my right leg screaming at me didn’t seem to make much sense so I headed for home and settled for 5.

I’m having a hard time shaking off today’s run. For one thing, I’ve dealt with piriformis issues before and know what a bitch it can be; and two, it’s left me feeling like next Saturday’s Black Cat race/training run is out of reach. My biggest goal this year is to steer clear of injury so I can go after some big goal races. I’ve got to update the RunnersConnect coaches on today’s run – I’ll be curious to see what they have to say.

Is it worth it to push for double digits next week just because I committed the $35 to run?

I’m linking up with Holly and Wendy for the Weekly Wrap.

Filed Under: training, Weekly Wrap

Coffee and a Nor’easter

March 3, 2018 by Michelle 22 Comments

The winds are still gusting here following yesterday’s Nor’easter, and if my neighborhood is any example than I can only imagine that there are tree branches and other debris all over the roads. Happily, our power’s back on so I can fire up the Keurig and snuggle up on the couch with a mug of hot coffee and have a little catch-up. I’m linking up with Coco and Deborah for the Ultimate Coffee Date, so grab a mug of your fave hot beverage and let’s chat.

If we were having coffee, I’d tell you that I cannot believe that Thursday I was on Cape Cod for a meeting and it was a beautiful day in the mid-60s, then yesterday we got hit with a raging Nor’easter. The winds were so fierce at times that it literally sounded like a roar. You know it’s bad when I opened the door to the mudroom to let my dog out and he just sat there looking at me like I had to be joking.

And, while on the subject of the weather, if we were having coffee, I’d tell you that I’m already stalking the forecast for my “race”, aka training run with benefits, scheduled for next Saturday. I’ve been such a fair-weather runner this winter and I’m hoping that doesn’t come back to bite in the arse. So far the forecast shows a clear day in the 40s – fingers-crossed that will hold up.

If we were having coffee, I’d tell you that my son’s been hounding me to sign him up for driver’s ed, and meanwhile, I’m having a hard time processing that he’s inching ever closer to turning 16. A couple of the neighborhood kids recently got their licenses and every time one of them drives past me on our street it throws me for a loop because in my mind’s eye all I can see are the little kids who use to run around my backyard.

If we were having coffee, I’d tell you that I’ve been feeling super stretched lately. Things on all fronts seem to be running in high gear all at the same time and it has left me feeling drained. “Busy” has quickly become a four-letter word but I’m working on regaining some sense of balance.

If we were having coffee, I’d tell you that while I usually enjoy watching the Oscars I don’t think I’ve seen one movie that has been nominated this year. In fact, I haven’t paid attention at all to the awards season and have no idea who are supposed to be the favorites. I’m not sure if I’ll watch on Sunday, but I’ll probably tune in to catch the red carpet – which is often more entertaining than the Oscars themselves 😉

What would you tell me over coffee? Did you deal with the crazy weather yesterday? Will you be watching the Oscars?

Filed Under: Ultimate coffee date, weather

Looking forward to March

February 27, 2018 by Michelle 10 Comments

February is quickly coming to a close and it’s been a long short month if you know what I mean! I realized the other day that I never set any monthly goals for February…and in hindsight, it’s just as well that I didn’t. While plans were derailed, I am happy that I finished the month running and feeling more like myself again. And, now my sights are squarely set on moving forward in March.

So I’m linking up with Erika, Marcia, and Patty for Tuesdays on the Run and sharing a couple of March goals.

Enjoy the Black Cat 10 Miler – I recently runfessed that this race will be run as a training run, while I shift my focus to the Portland 10 in late April. My goal is to soak in the atmosphere, high-five the volunteers, stick to my run-walk intervals, and celebrate returning to double digits!

Be consistent – With the flu firmly in the rearview mirror, priority one is to be consistent with my workouts. Run 3x’s a week, cross-train/strength train 2x/week, and a weekly yoga session.

Get my diet in sync – I also runfessed that my eating was kind of all over the place in February so for March it’s time to get back to meal planning and prep.

Run 70 miles – I don’t usually set mileage targets, but I know I’m behind on my contribution to my team’s Run This Year challenge so I want to put a target out there for some extra motivation.

So tell me how was your month? Have you set any goals for March?

Filed Under: goals, Tuesdays on the Run

Runfessions for February

February 23, 2018 by Michelle 32 Comments

It’s the last Friday of the month which means it’s time for some soul (or is that sole?) cleansing. Marcia has opened the runfessional so let’s get to it!

I runfess that being stubborn and trying to power through being sick was not my best choice. I was kind of in a bit of denial about sick. Sometimes you need to let go of plans and “must do’s” and just rest!

I runfess that I’m both disappointed and a little worried that I’m going to go into Black Cat undertrained. It’s my first race of the year and I had really wanted to kick things off strong, but two weeks off from running threw a wrench in those plans. Now it becomes a TRB (training run with benefits) and I’ll focus on training for a strong run at the Portland 10 Miler in April.

I runfess that my eating habits have been a bit of a mess lately. When I first got sick I dropped 5 lbs in a couple of days – not ideal but that’s what happens when you live on green tea, water, and soup. As I emerged from my flu fog, I fell into eating whatever felt comforting…yeah no good. I need to start paying attention again.

The Runfessional is open and I've got some #runfessions to share! #fridayfive #runchat Share on X

I runfess that I’m growing tired of Mother Nature’s twisted sense of humor. We had glorious 70-degree weather on Tuesday and Wednesday, only for it to snow yesterday and colder temps have returned. This weather whiplash has gone on all month, and I have to say if I wasn’t over the winter before I sure am now. I have no desire to bundle up again now that I’ve broken out my running skirts – bring on spring!

Weather whiplash!

I runfess that I still haven’t settled on a fall marathon. I’ve talked myself in and out of each of my 3 options, but am having a hard time choosing. I’m waiting for divine inspiration…or for the MCM lottery to open, whichever comes first.

I’m also joining Rachel and Lacey & Meranda for the Friday Five link-up!

So how was your month? Anything you want to come clean on?

Filed Under: Friday Five, Runfessions

Black Cat Week 7 – Trying to be patient

February 18, 2018 by Michelle 22 Comments

So I should be wrapping up week 7 of training for the Black Cat 10-miler, but the reality is very little training has been going on. I went down with the flu two weeks ago, and while I thought I was over the worse of it last weekend, I’m learning recovery is not a straight line!

I spent this past week trying to regain my bearings – some moments feeling good, only to have someone pull the energy rug out from under me quickly. Mostly I’ve been dog-tired. I spent the week trying to let go of my disappointment at watching my training progress go south and focusing instead on what I could do and giving my body all the rest it was craving. So as a result, the week shook out like this:

Monday: Rest; plank streak day 43

Tuesday: Got back to the Superman, Squats & Twists Challenge with 60 squats plus planks

Wednesday: A hectic day of presentations for work really set me back. I had planned to get some cardio done, but by the time I got home I was toast. So I got my plank done and enjoyed a quiet V-Day dinner at home with J.

Thursday: Woke up feeling horrible and discouraged that I was sliding back and not getting better. It was a tough day mentally, but I gave in and let myself sleep a lot. (A plank did happen)

Friday: Finally woke up feeling good. I got some errands done, met a friend for lunch, and then met another friend for a 3-mile walk in time to catch this beautiful sunset. I finished the day with 70 squats and some planking.

Saturday: Yeah ok so maybe I got overly ambitious on Friday. I woke up Saturday feeling drained so I kept it simple with a little yoga, planks, and 70 twists.

Sunday: Finally some running! 4 hard-fought miles thanks to 5:1 run/walk intervals.

Just a little less than 3 weeks until Black Cat and it looks like I’m going to have to re-think my goals for this race. It’s a good thing I’ve got the Portland 10 Miler a few weeks later!

So tell me something about your week!

I’m linking up with Holly and Wendy for the Weekly Wrap!

Filed Under: Black Cat 10 Miler, Recovery, training, Weekly Wrap

Emerging from Flu Fog

February 11, 2018 by Michelle 22 Comments

There’s no way to sugar coat it – this past week was one long and u-g-l-y week! I developed an annoying hacking cough late Sunday and by Monday morning I was a wreck. By Tuesday it was clear I had some serious virus or strain of the flu happening. Ugh, really?! Ain’t nobody got time for that…especially when you throw in that I was doing the single parent thing for half the week. Yes a tough week, but I am slowly emerging from my flu fog.

Because I’m stubborn, I did manage to hang onto my plank streak this week, and by Friday I was back to Rachel’s Supermans, Squats, and Twists Challenge with 50 squats. Saturday offered up 50+ degree weather and I got out for a brisk walk with my husband J and followed up with 50 twists. I finally got back to some cardio today with a mix of miles on the bike and the mill – just a few miles had me winded and ready for a nap, but it was progress.

I’m trying not to get too stressed out about losing a week of training for Black Cat. Today’s brief run showed me that I’m going to have to take this week slow as I continue to work my way out of flu recovery mode. I still have 3 long runs before the race so hopefully, I can squeeze in a couple of 8 milers and one double-digit run. Fingers-crossed!

So tell me something about your week!

I’m linking up with Holly and Wendy for the Weekly Wrap.

Filed Under: Flu recovery mode, Weekly Wrap

Weekly Wrap – Black Cat Training Week 5

February 4, 2018 by Michelle 26 Comments

Happy Super Bowl Sunday!

I am counting down to the start of the game and cheering on the Patriots! But before I get to football, food, and beer I’m joining hosts Holly and Wendy for the Weekly Wrap. If you post a weekly training update definitely check out this link-up – it’s a great place for motivation, encouragement, and inspiration!

Monday – Rest; plank streak D29

Tuesday – 3-mile run; plank streak D30

Wednesday – Woke up with a mysterious ITB/glute pain – had no idea where this flare up came from since Tuesday’s run was uneventful. Unfortunately, I had presentations for work and spent the day on my feet…in heels. Skipped my strength work and spent some time rolling with a lacrosse ball. Still kept the plank streak alive!

Thursday – Another 3-miler was scheduled but the ITB/glute was only mildly better. I’m in no mood to be sidelined so I hightailed it to the massage therapist. Plank streak D32

Friday – With the ITB feeling much better, I hit the treadmill to make up Thursday’s run. I got to test out my new kicks! I also joined Rachel’s Supermans, Squats, Twists Challenge so there were 30 squats in addition to streak day 33.

Mizuno Wave Sky

Saturday – The forecast showed brutally cold temps so I opted to push my run to Sunday and get a strength workout instead. I focused on core and upper body, including the challenge’s 30 Russian Twists. Plank day 34.

Sunday – So Mother Nature has a twisted sense of humor. When I started my run it was 40 degrees, but things quickly changed…temps dropped and then icy rain began. Seriously?! Of course, the ITB/glute decided to start complaining just for added fun. Not much you can do but dig in and finish. 7 miles done!

And with that, week 5 of Black Cat training is a wrap!

Filed Under: Black Cat 10 Miler, Weekly Wrap

Catching Up Over Coffee

February 2, 2018 by Michelle 51 Comments

These past few days (weeks!) have been a blur – time for a quick catch up over coffee.

If we were having coffee, I’d tell you that I’m declaring February my “do over” month. High hopes of getting out the gates fast on a number of things to start the year were derailed by being sick. The creeping crud has finally vacated our house and in it’s a wake is an over-flowing to do list!

If we were having coffee, I’d tell you that February is already off to a great start with the email I got yesterday inviting me back for my second year as a Skirt Sports Ambassador Captain! I absolutely love this company – not just for their cute and comfy clothes, but also for the positive community they foster among women. Their positive vibe and mission to encourage all women to push past their perceived limits really connects with me and I am looking forward to sharing the Skirt love again this year!

If we were having coffee, I’d tell you that the college outreach to my oldest son has begun and I’m so not ready to think about it! There are daily mailings and email solicitations pouring in and meanwhile, I’m thinking were we not just celebrating him starting Kindergarten?! Someone please make the clock slow down!

If we were having coffee, I’d tell you that I’m feeling the need to shake up my strength workouts a bit. I felt like I was making the most progress when I was working with a trainer so I’m on the hunt to find a new strength coach – unfortunately I’m now wowed by any of the trainers on staff at my gym so I’ve got to scout out other alternatives.

If we were having coffee, I’d tell you that I cannot wait for the Super Bowl and a chance to see my Patriots bring home another Lombardi trophy! I think the whole 2-week build up is just too much – I’m looking forward to less talk and just playing!

(Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

So what would you tell me over coffee? Do you work with a trainer or do your own thing? Are you planning to watch the game?

I’m linking up with Coco and Deborah for the Ultimate Coffee Date.

I’m also linking up with Meranda, Lacey, and Rachel for the Friday Five.

Filed Under: #REALwomenmove, #skirtsports, Friday Five, Patriots, Skirt Sports Ambassador, Ultimate coffee date

2018 Race Calendar is Taking Shape

January 30, 2018 by Michelle 14 Comments

My race calendar is slowly starting to take shape and the one thing that’s for certain, I’ll be running my favorite hometown race again this year – Boston’s Run to Remember.

Boston’s Run to Remember was my first half marathon back in 2011 and I knew even before I’d crossed the finish line that I’d be running it again (You can read that recap here). This race has everything – a scenic tour through the streets of Boston, a relatively flat course, good crowd support, enthusiastic volunteers, and a great cause. The race is put on by the Boston Police Department and the Boston Police’s Runner’s Club in honor of fallen law enforcement officers and first responders. And, I especially love how many police officers are out along the course cheering and supporting the runners. It’s held on the Sunday of Memorial Day Weekend, which can make this a hot one to run – and you all know what a heat weenie I can be, but I still find myself registering again and again. In the past couple of years, I’ve opted for the 5-miler but this year I’ll be running the half again.

So at the moment, my 2018 Race Calendar looks like this:

March – Black Cat 10-Miler (3

April – Portland 10 Miler

May – Boston’s Run to Remember Half

June – BAA 10K (I’m still debating – this one can be uber hot!)

July – Rock ‘n’ Roll Chicago (keeping my fingers crossed that the stars will align for this one)

September – Rock ‘n’ Roll Philadelphia Half

Then there’s that fall marathon thing to figure out 😉 In case you missed it, I’m debating, MCM, Richmond, or Philly for my first full – you can check out that debate here.

I’m also holding out hope for Rock ‘n’ Roll San Antonio in December, but I’ll have to see how family schedules line up. And speaking of Rock ‘n’ Roll – if you want to join me be sure to use code RNRRNB2018 to save $15 when you register for either a half or full marathon.

Looking forward to running these races in 2018! Will I see you at the start line? #runchat #rocknblog Share on X

I’m linking up with Erika, Marcia, and Patty for Tuesdays on the Run – this week’s topic is favorite hometown races.

I’m also joining Deb’s Race Link Up, which is a great way to find others for race meet-ups.