Find joy in the Journey

I am just reading this, but I have to commend you for sticking with your friend on this race---that is what running is about! It is not about the times but the friendship and the camaraderie. I have yet to run Painters for myself but have thoroughly enjoyed pacing others and helping them with their first half marathon experience!

Welcome to the blog! Good luck with your training. I'm impressed you have 5 kids and are going to make the time to train for a marathon. I hope you are rewarded with feeling great and reaching your goals!

Callie - I would recommend following the principle: "Diligence before ambition". When followed, it leads to miraculous performances. When not, the fruit are blow ups and injuries.

Switch from the marathon to the half if you can. Running a marathon without proper preparation is not good, and there is not enough time for proper preparation for a June marathon. Yes, some popular running publication may talk about how runner so and so trained for a month and ran a sub-4:00 marathon, but the truth of the matter is that somebody with a moderate level of talent could run a sub-4:00 with no training at all. So do not fall for that "logic".

Speaking of false logic, if I worked for a marketing department of a tobacco company and my purpose in life was to sell tobacco, I would find a guy with 2:10 talent that smokes and have him run a marathon while still smoking. He would run around 2:50, and I would make a big deal about that. False marketable logic is an instrument in the hands of conspiring men in the last days.

Marathon is not something we train for like a student preparing for an exam. Rather, the ability to run the marathon at a good pace is a fruit of consistent training effort that spans several years. The correct approach to the marathon (assuming you want more than just a finisher medal) is build a solid training foundation first. Run 6 days a week gradually increasing your distance. 5 days a distance that it takes you 24 hours to fully recover from, on the 6th go twice that distance. Race short races frequently to observe the effects of your training and make necessary adjustments. Get your 5 K performance to where it is at least the pace of your dream goal in the marathon. Then bring your 10 K there. Then the half. Once you can race a half at a good pace, sign up for the marathon.

Sasha, I appreciate your counsel and totally understand what you are saying. Maybe I set my goal a little high, but I do feel that I can run a marathon. I have ran 5 half marathons 2 5k's and 1 10k, 1 marathon and my 2nd marathon was cut short @ mile 19 because I was pregnant and was not feeling right. That is one big reason why I am running this marathon, to finish it. I feel that I have some experience in running and am really excited to do this.

I will take your training advice and hope one day I will get that time I know I can get in my half marathons.

There is a difference between "survive a marathon" and "run a marathon". Most people who claim to have run a marathon only survived it. There is only one requirement to surviving a marathon - be willing to be in pain for a few hours. No prior training is needed, and a few months is plenty. Running a marathon is much more difficult - you have to train for a while, longer than a few months.

I believe the excessive aura surrounding the marathon does most runners a disservice because they feel they need to run in it in order to be validated as a runner, and thus often do so inadequately prepared. They are barely in shape to race a 5 K, and they are jumping into the marathon. Thus we miss some important principles of developing as a runner. The fruit of such neglect is slower times, and higher rate of injury.

In our culture of wild cheers and expectations it takes courage to say: "I am not yet ready for the marathon". I consider it a sign of maturity when a runner wants to improve his half PR by 10 minutes as a prerequisite for trying the marathon. It more noble to run a shorter distance that you are fit to race than to jog a longer distance that you are only fit to survive.

I agree that the commercial side of running can give people who are not ready to run a marathon a false idea that they can, and yes that can be very dangerous. I am not a world class runner, I never will be, but I don't think that that is a good reason to lower my goals. I am running this marathon for me, not for the time or the medal, but to fulfill a dream of running this marathon that both my Grandfather and father ran for 13 years. It is something that I know I can do and want to do. I think I am a good runner and am preparing for it properly. I joined this blog thinking it would give me encouragement and support, I have seen a lot of it on others. I hope that you can be excited for me and support me.

Hooray for the blog finally working! This blog is such a motivation!

I am excited to see you achieve your goals. You can do it! Day by day and run by run you will get there! Don't let anything get in your way!

We need to come up with a race slogan and need to get chuck to join the blog!

Sorry, but I did not create the blog to support runners who start training for a marathon 4 months before the race. I will support you in training for a marathon properly, though.

I can see how you might think I have just started training by my comments, but I haven't. I have been working towards this marathon since my last child was born 2 years ago. This last summer was a great one with two half marathons. I just ran the St. George half just last month and felt the best I have ever felt.

You have a lot of experience and knowledge of running so you are just looking out for fellow runner...awesome, but maybe you need all the fact before you start putting someone down.

I do have to say in a funny way your comments have made me more determined than ever to work hard and well, show that I can do this and do it to my expectations not anyone else's.

Good luck with your goals and thanks for creating this community. Despite your negative comments I know I will get the support I need from fellow bloggers.

The facts are that you have 4 months before the race, your daily run is 3 miles, and you skip days. To be ready for the marathon in 4 months your current daily run at this point needs to be at least 7, and it needs to happen without skipping. The problem is you cannot just say, I am going to bring myself where I am supposed to be and just do it. If you do, you will likely get injured or overtrained.

So even with the best possible training between now and June, you will be ready for a reasonable half, but you will not be ready to race a marathon. You will survive it probably in around 5 hours, then will take a while to recover, and then a similar cycle will repeat.

I would recommend you study Carolyn's blog in detail (http://cocarolyn.fastrunningblog.com). She went from a 2:07 half to 3:45 marathon in a year by doing things right. She probably could have dragged herself through a marathon much earlier, but instead she gradually build up her mileage and patiently waited until she was ready, and was rewarded with a Boston Qualifier with room to spare in her first marathon attempt.

I see what you are saying. Having 5 children is my main priority in life. If that means I may have to miss a day once in a blue moon than that's ok. Everyone runs for different reasons. You want to be in the olympics and I hope you make it. I find peace in my running and it is a hobby for me. I can't run like you and that is not my goal. I will never run Boston, I don't want. I don't run marathon's to win them I run them because I enjoy the journey. If you feel that I am wasting my time than that your problem.

These blog have a handicap in them, and that is you don't know me and I don't know you. You have a few lines of info about me and 4 entries and you have made your conclusions about me and my running abilities. You're right, I won't run Boston, so what. But that doesn't mean I can't reach my goals. I've run marathons before, I know what is required of me and I know I can do it.

Sasha-I am shocked by your negativity here. I have never seen you be so discouraging to someone and I'm trying to figure out why you seem bent on dragging Callie down when she has just barely joined the blog and is excited about running.

Callie-I think you have a great attitude. With a lot of dedication and good balance, training for a marathon will be very enriching for you. Just keep taking it one day at a time and work towards your goal. If you do start to have an injury slow you down then that will just have to be something you deal with and be humble enough to alter your race plans if needed. We all deal with setbacks, no matter if we're elite or novice. But I do think if you are smart and take good care of yourself there is a very good chance you can get to Grandma's injury free and find joy in the journey. Good luck!

Hahaaha. Oops I did it again. Posted under my husband's login. Sorry. That last post was actually from me.

These are your goals - no one elses. You can do it!

Thanks you guys soooo much! I really needed to here that.

Callie, you can do it. And you know what, never say never!

Carolyn is an awesome runner and a great person, I am sure she could give you great ideas and advice, as could many people. The key to all of this is finding what works for you and your situation---family, kids, LIFE, and then making a schedule that works and helps you feel prepared!

Good luck, I am excited to watch your JOURNEY!

Way to stick with it on the track - SO not fun!

We need to swap Ipod play lists!

Sounds good to me. I'm always up for some good music. I am one who can't run without it. I like the fun dance music. Keeps my feet moving.

What a hottie! I will work on my list (it may contain a few "I wouldn't want my mom to hear that" songs :)

I love it! I'm okay with those songs. I have a few of those as well.

:) Yay for goals!

Nan-thanks for your support! It means a lot coming from you. You are an awesome runner. I wish you all the luck in your training and your goals. It is fun to read your blog.

Great run today! I agree that no music is very peaceful. Nothing like zoning out everything but the beat of my heart and the cadence of my feet.

Way to go Callie! Hooray for Greg for going too! Charge up that ipod girlie! BTW - we need to get on Chuck. He hasn't started running. Not one bit :)

He's going to be in big trouble if he doesn't get going. We need to really bug him. How is your healing coming?

SLOW!!! I still have 2-3 weeks of no running. Then I can gradually start to run. So 10 minutes every other day for a week. Then 15 minutes every other day and so on. I have to be careful with coming back or I can refracture it or even break it.

I hope I am able to run enough for Grandmas. I LOVE trials!

Good luck finding your watch! Hope you have a good week in running!

looks like a good plan. good luck this week.

Run Forest run :) Charge up that ipod too!

Hi Callie! Welcome to the blog. Sorry I'm a little late welcoming you to the blog. I was out of town last week and wasn't on the computer much.

I hope you have a great week of running this week!

Life with little kids is tough. One of my sons used to complain of pains in his legs a lot.

I hope you're able to get some sleep. Your kids will interrupt your sleep less when they get older, but that doesn't help you now.

Are those your youngest?

Good run. Hope you got some sleep last night and are ready for a good run today!

Tracy- yes those are my youngest. I have an 11 yr. boy, 9 yr. girl, 7 yr. girl and then the two little crazy boys. Keeps me on my toes, but I love it!

You definitely have your hands full!

(and p.s. I hate running on treadmills too!)

No injuries allowed or you'll end up pool running and it's stinky!

It's good to deal with a pain when it's just little and not let it turn into something big.

Congratulations on getting some more sleep.

How's your shin? Run today if you can.

I'm starting to wonder if it is shin splints. My pain is in the inner part, on my lower leg not the outer part. The pain feel kind of burning and aches. Do you think it is shin splints?

Is the pain in one isolated area or is it sore in many places?

It runs along the side of my shin bone. It's in between the bone and the calf muscle.

I'm sorry, I don't really have any experience with shin pain.

How old are your shoes?

Do you want to come pool running with me for the rest of the week and give your legs a rest? You will definitely get a good workout :)

Tracy- I bought my shoes last April. I have run 3 1/2 marathon's on them....the pain is on the inside of my leg not the outside...right in between the shin bone and my calf muscle.

Toby- i would love to do that! What time do you go?

You need new shoes darling :)

I can usually get 500 miles on my shoes if I'm lucky. Sometimes way less. I can usually tell if I start to feel any pain in my lower legs that it is time for new shoes.

So oh my goodness gracious do you need some new shoes.

Have to second Tracy's opinion. Most of the time my feet or legs start hurting, I get new shoes, and the pain goes away. (Sometimes I think I put more mileage on my shoes than I realize because I also use them for walking, chasing after kids, etc.)

Other common causes of pain for me is if I increase my training too fast, or if I run on steeply cambered surfaces. (i.e., the "slant" at the side of the road). (Running on cambered surfaces create lots of problems for me.)

Anyhow, I hope the pain goes away - it's hard to train when you have the mental motivation, but your body hurts!

Thanks for the shoe advice. I think I will be buying some new shoes.

A running friend throw out the thought of it being a stress fracture. I don't know though, because if feels good when I stretch my calf and ankle and rub it with ice. I can actually touch right where it hurts. Have any of you had stress fractures?

Get some cute pink ones!!!!

I kn ow you worked out today (Toby says so on her blog), do not give up on this blog!!! We are here to cheer you on!!!

I just found out that you are Toby's cousin. WELCOME to the blog!

I LOVE that quote from Michael Sargent.

How's the shin feeling today?

I haven't given up. Thanks for the support. I did take two days off and than did pool running today. My shin is feeling way better. I think I am going to do the pool running and cycling into this next week and than try running on it. I am keeping my figures crossed and a prayer in my heart. I really want to run my races!

Callie-I have had experience with this in the past. Does the pain go away to any degree after you warmup?

My instinct tells me your tendons and such just aren't strong enough yet and this will take more time and less impact overall. I had similar issues when I first started out. You were smart to do what you did though.

Steve Ash-It does somewhat. I will sometimes feel it at the bottom of my knee as well. I have been experimenting with my forum and I wonder if I just irritated something. I have stayed off it and today the pain is way less. I am praying that it is not a stress fracture. Would love to hear what you think on it.

If it goes away, chances are it's only inflamed. But if it does not and it's very local in the pressure point area it could be.. a stress fracture. Hard to tell then without tests. It can develop into a stress fracture if gets worse however. Be aware of that.

It sounds like compartment issues so RICE is a good thing to do.

That is; Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation..

If you run at all, grass or very soft treadmill and very little at that. Elliptical might be better perhaps.

You will be good, just be smart about it---and we know you are. Do not run until you are ready, just keep cross training and smiling!

Steve- thanks for all the great advice. I may be asking more questions. Sounds like you know a lot!

Kelli- Thank you so much for the cheering, it means a lot to me. Helps me keep my spirits up. I was kind of nervous to post anything when my shin started to hurt, in fear of "you know who." You have set my fears at ease. Thanks!

Do not worry about "he who must not be named." He said his peace and he will not come back.

You totally did have a cool partner :) See you dark and early by the bikes.

You are so lucky to have someone to workout in the pool or on the bike while you let your shin heal.

Your workout looks just like one of Toby's. I guess that's because it was! You are lucky to have her to keep you going. Good work.

Believe me, we all look like dorks most of the time!

Great workout!

I've seen that. #10 applies to me the most, I think.

Are you sure about #7?

Steve- have you seen Chariots of Fire? I have never seen it. I hope I didn't offend you. It came from a list out of a Runners World magazine. I thought it was funny.:)

:) #5 applies to me and #6 is so true!

Oh yeah, I always cringe inside when someone tells me: "I see you out jogging all the time." May be I should have a shirt printed: "I am NOT a jogger."

Hmmmm, I am a jogger and proud of it!

But, I have to attest to #1 on the list. How many times have I skipped the lineless porta potty only to lose 5 minutes in the race 3 miles later when i just could not hold it any longer????

And, of course, #5. We all know that one is the truest of all. Oh wait, maybe #4 is. I am constantly thinking about how many miles I would have to run if I ate the cookie or the ice cream or the chocolate (not that it stops me from eating it, or 5, but at least I think about it!!!)

THANKS FOR SHARING!!!!

Well dang it!

But you can survive 6 weeks.

However, if you take of 6 weeks from now, that only leaves you 9 1/2 weeks until Grandma's marathon. I don't think that 9 1/2 weeks is enough to train for a marathon, especially coming off of 6 weeks of injury. I don't mean to be a nay sayer and I think you can definitely do a marathon at some point. I just think it might be smart to not try to push for Grandma's this year.

Carolyn- those are my thoughts as well. I have a lot of thinking to do. I only have 4 more weeks off of it because I have been off of it for 2 already. I don't have to make any decisions until May. Thanks for the words of advice. :)

Maybe next year will be our Grandma's year. This will be our "get really in shape and buff" year!

Hope the kids sleep better tonight!

I think your right! Do you think we could sell our numbers on ebay?

Hmmmm.....I know plenty of people who have run marathons on even less training (me for example) BUT I am not saying that is a good idea. I think it all depends what exercises you can do with the stress fracture. Many people pool run and do just fine. I guess it depends on HOW you want this marathon to go. If your heart is not set on it, then, heck yeah, do not do it! But, you could always go and run/walk it and just have a GREAT time. Not everyone has to win!!!

That is just my two cents, and I am sure it will be UNPOPULAR! I just wanted to say that you do not necessarily have to RUN the marathon, it all just depends on what kind of outcome you want.

Do be careful this 6 weeks and get all healed up, no matter what you decide to do!

Oh NO!! I'm so sorry to hear that!

I agree with Carolyn, Grandmas is not a great idea this year. I have been a very competitive runner my whole life and I wouldn't even do a marathon on only 9 weeks of running. I've decided to pull out of Boston because of my injury too. STINKS, but it is what it is. In the meantime, follow Toby's example and get some good cross training in. Nothing stopping you from getting into great shape now which will make running that much more enjoyable when you can do it again. Happy healing!

Thanks for all the advice! I have decided not to run Grandmas. It is not the way i wanted to come back to this race. Last time I ran it it was not a good experience, I was pregnant and it didn't go well and I do not want a repeat of it. I might try for Top of Utah... we will see how recovery goes.

I totally have a great example in Toby and will follow her example.

Toby is CRAZY - don't follow her:)

We should do St. George - that way we will have lots of time to prepare!

St.George is an option, but I'm worried we wont be able to find a place to stay. We should look into it ASAP

There is always TOU in September (if you can not get in to ST George through the lottery). That was my first marathon (that would be the untrained one an way less than 9 weeks training!!! I was foolish, and I quit running for 6 months after that event.)

Poor little guy. I hope he feels better soon and that you're able to get some rest.

I wish I could help you, but I don't know. If you think it might be the flip flops, try wearing other shoes during the day and see if that makes a difference.

Callie, just ran across your blog (blog stalking recent entries :) ). As a recovering SFist I feel slightly qualified to answer. My PT said to make sure I got the gel insoles in ALL my shoes while recovering. There were days I would be on my feet cleaning all day (in socks) and it would ache afterward. So, keep off your feet (if/when you can, I know mothers never get to!) and wear gel insoles or anything to keep impact down when you can.

It took me about 8-9 weeks of NO impact exercise until I had no pain for a week which was enough to start on a 'back to WALKING' program. I'm now just starting my 'back to running' program an additional 3 weeks later - with continued NO pain. However, my fracture is in my hip (femoral condyle) and I'm pregnant, baby takes everything! So, it takes a while, but do what you can to stay off of it and even just seeing a PT once and getting a plan of how to recover when the pain is gone would be VERY beneficial. No/little guess work. Mine lets me call with questions instead of making a $25 appt for answers.

Either way...there is my 2 cents about recovering from a SF, yes the pain is normal (still) and the flip-flops probably did do it. Take or leave it (this is my first time around with one, so I'm not an expert). Good luck with recovery, it takes a while, but it's worth it in the end to not re-fracture, which is your greatest enemy now for the next 3-5 months! (or so I'm told)

I bought a pair of slip on Merrill clogs (at Cabelas) with insoles to wear around the house. They make a HUGE difference. I am going to get a pair of insoles for my running shoes too!

You will get a full night's sleep some day. Kids do grow up.

Good job on the workout this morning. I hope you get a nap this afternoon.

Hop back into bed when the little boys go down! I'm going to pool run tomorrow at 5:15 if you want to come!

I hope you get a nap today too! Bummer that you're not running SL. Take care of yourself. Great workout today! I too wonder if there will ever be a time when I get a full night's sleep. I hope your kids get feeling better and sleeping better very soon!

Toby- I am planning on it for tomorrow. Thanks for supporting me! Your the best!

And no I didn't get my nap. Oh well, early to bed tonight.

I always go for pink (but they never have it in my favorite shoe, dang it!)

Great job in the pool, glad you two ladies are having a good time! Did you decide on a fall marathon?

Kelli- I think we are going to go for St. George. of course it depends on e getting in and if we can find a place to stay. Are you going to run any other marathon's besides Boston?

GOOD JOB on the pool running. You and Toby are having so much fun and progressing along nicely!

I always stockpile my shoes when I find them on sale. I currently have 2 new pairs of the same model in the closet. I don't like shopping (grocery, clothes, etc.)...but I LOVE browsing in a running store!

We will run St George as well (I try to get in with the lottery, if not my husbands work gets me in with him). It is my favorite marathon! I will keep my fingers crossed that you two get in, it is a fabulous race. Only 2 marathons a year for me, though, that is all I can handle!

It's great that you've got someone to go pool running with. It makes the situation better for both of you.

Great dedication going it alone today.

Carolyn- Thank's for the support! I am hoping to keep up a little of the pool running when I get back into running. Maybe I can avoid more injuries by doing that.

Does anyone know if doing lunges and squats be a bad thing to do with a stress fracture?

That's a long pool running by yourself. GOOD JOB!

I think lunges and squats are great strength training. Be careful to protect the joints, knees and ankles. I can't remember, is the stress fracture in your foot? Is the pain localized?

I think you'd have to watch your balance very carefully and that's probably hard to do while doing lunges. Take them slow and concentrate on form.

Way to ROCK IT Cal!

My feet fall asleep on the elliptical...

Very nice workout, and glad the boys had fun in the daycare. It stinks when they do not like to go there!

Great workout.

I hate the elliptical too.

GREAT workout! Glad your cute kids like the daycare! Have fun at the pool tomorrow!

I've found that the elliptical feels better when you stay more steady with less bouncing and just move your legs faster. Get those RPMs up and it can be a butt kicker! I also like the elliptical machines where your arms are moving instead of just holding stationary handles. I'll do elliptical any day over getting in a cold pool.

Nan- thanks, I will have to try that. The elliptical is a very good workout. I just need to suck it up and do it more.

Hooray for a good workout! I will probably run outside tomorrow - we can do the pool later this week!

Get a nap!

NICE pool workout w/ Toby! Hope you got a nap. Always wonderful to go to the temple. Hope you get to run outside tomorrow! :)

I have to admit that I have dosed off in the temple before.

Pool workouts are SO much more swallowable when you have friends! ESPECIALLY early in the morning. Hope you made it through the temple w/out much dosing :)

Kids always have a cold....ALWAYS!!!!!

Did you do a video? I want to try :)

Toby- it is a dvd, it is really hard. If you want to try you can.

WAy to get a workout in despite stinky day care rules. They should simply have a 'sick bay' where we can throw them if they're sick :) Don't those ladies know we still need our workouts? :)

Rad- Amen to that! I actually got in trouble for bringing in snacks for my boys. The lady said that I needed look at their rules and I did and there is nothing in there that says that I can't bring in some pretzels for my kids. Go figure.

You're so cute! I can just picture your little guy tapping your head to get your attention! WAY TO get in a workout.

How are you feeling today?

You are very wise to do the recovery right and smart and not rush things. Two more weeks sounds like a good idea.

Nice job on the pool running! I usually do water aerobics when I'm pregnant and that x-country move IS hard! I liked doing the running, because I felt like I was using my running muscles and keeping them in shape.

I agree with your assessment of the 6 weeks. My PT said until I had NO pain, then I could start walking 20 min on a TM after doing that for 3-5 days pain free I could increase by 5-7 minutes at a time (every 3 days) until I could do 45 minutes for 5 days pain free. It was ALL based on pain. If I felt any I had to step back, so waiting until you feel no pain is SO much better than a set time.

From what I looked at re-fracturing is the highest possibility for the next 4-6 months, so yes - take it easy, we don't want to be back to square one in JUNE when it's nice outside, then just start getting back when it starts to turn cold again :)

Nice workout Cal! The skiing move is DANG hard! I think I need to take more rest time between each run. Hence I will be in the pool more this week.

I will be at the pool tomorrow at 5:15!

Sounds like a smart way to go. You'll get back into it soon, but you're right, there's no reason to rush!

RAD- thanks for the info. I will follow the "no pain" cues.

I really appreciate the support and advice for all of you guys. You are all awesome!

Toby- I not sure if I am going to go that early. I am too lazy! I will text you. Keep your spirits up!

Good job on the pool running. You are very diligent.

I haven't seen Blind Side either. (I don't get out much.) Perhaps I should.

Carolyn-You should take a road trip to my house and we can watch it together. I don't see movies in the theater much. I would rather watch them laying in my bed nice and cozy. My husband love to go, so I have to give in once and a while. I'll let you know how it is.

Blind side is GREAT! I'd recommend it as a buy - if you're a movie buyer that is.

GREAT job on hitting it hard in the pool. I understand about the crowd avoidance thing, hopefully it did make the time go a bit faster.

I wondered about that movie, thanks for saving me the time!!! I need to go get New Moon, I never saw it in the theaters.

GOOD JOB in the pool! I haven't seen the Box. Thanks for the forewarn. Blindside is WONDERFUL! I'm going to buy that movie!

You should toughness and diligence today.

ugghhh, just think about the mental toughness you're developing while you 'weave' in & out of people and try to stay sane for 60 minutes!!

I will totally be at the pool at 5:15am - you in?

rad-i will either become tough or crazy in the head. I am hoping for the later but my kids are pushing my toward thr fisrt!

toby- I am planing on it. Thanks!

carolyn- what doesn't kill you make you stronger, right?

I tether myself in place so you don't have to worry about having to dodge and you can pull harder against the tether.

RivertonPaul- thanks for the advice! I bet that would really kick my butt. How do you tether yourself and to what?

Either the ladder rail or the starter blocks work with bungee cords.

Where have you gone?

Carolyn- I have kind of fallen off the wagon. Life has it me in all directions and I have to admit I am a little discourage about my recovery. I just need to get back into it and stay focused. Thanks for checking up on me! :)

Swimming for eternity....that does sound like torture! But you did it and finished, YEAH!

Hope you had a wonderful Easter and life is treating you kindly!

How are ya?????

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!

Happy Birthday!

Great work doing the classes at the rec center. It's good that you're using the stress fracture and an opportunity to do some other types of exercise.

I've read Born to Run. It's a great book.

Happy Birthday! It's nice to see you back. Sorry about the back track on the SF, honestly that was the hardest part for me!! You are doing GREAT looking at the bright side and keeping active despite it all.

Enjoy the book and the shoes (when they come!). I'm doing the SLC 1/2, I'd love to meet up with you somehow at the end. I have a few friends doing the 5K that I think will wait for me, so I don't think it will be too long of a wait.

Big Happy Birthday hugs! I was a total loser and missed it! Hope you get your new shoes and are on the road to rockin!

Happy Belated birthday!!! That is a great book, ENJOY IT!!!!

HOW ARE YA??? How is the book?

Hey Kelli- I am good. I have kind of gotten into a bad funck. I have been doing classes but no running. I am really scared to start running again because if my leg starts to hurt I might freak out. I am going to try a little running this week and hope and pray that it will be good.

Got my new shoes and had them altered...zero drop is what it is called. I am hoping that will help.

The book rocks!!! I gets me all fired up to run, now I just have to get over my fear that it "might" hurt. I did sign up for a 10 miler in June. We will see. :)

Thanks for checking up on me. :)

Injuries do kind of take the wind out of your sails for sure!!! But you will be back in no time, and you have a goal in June so that will motivate you!

Glad you are enjoying the book, it is interesting!

Hope you had a great one too! How does your leg feel?

You too! How are you doing?!?

How are ya doing?

I am doing pretty good :) Thanks for asking. I finally have some running to blog about. I am hoping I can keep it going.

YEAH!!!!

Hooray for you! It was fun to see you and the boys at the dance festival!

Yeah! Welcome back to running (and blogging).

You'll do GREAT! 10 will fly by in those new shoes with some good legs behind them :)

I went to see a podiatrist at Weenig's office who was awesome. Maybe check him out!

ugghhh...amen on the eating. That is why if I don't run in the AM on a nearly empty gut I can't run at all! I've tried it a few times and always regret it - no matter WHAT the food is.

When I started coming back I also had shin issues, I think it's the tight calves that we're not used to. Spend extra time stretching them out and it should help. I also taped mine with KT tape (from the arch, over the ankle and up the inside of my leg so that the 'split' in the tape was on each side of where I felt the pain). It did seem to help quite a bit as well. I still struggle a bit with them, but always have.

I haven't used KT tape for shin splints, but I use it all the time for other things. I second the recommendation.

Where is the race report?

I seriously would have barfed!!!!

Now, did you run a race that yo are not telling us about????

When I do cross training I feel SO much stronger as well! Good luck with the Provo half, it is a GREAT race and with everything you're doing you will kill it!

Congratulations on 4 miles! That's great!

Awesome workout!

Sweet workout Cal!

Where is this class that you have bleachers to run? Awesome workout! Hope you can walk now that it is two days later!!!

Kelli- the class is at AF rec center and it backs up to the high school. If your looking for a teacher that shows no mercy this is the place. :)

Oh, no, I prefer MERCY!!!

holy moly...that sounds like a killer class that I will avoid! I can't believe you RAN home after that...I'd have to crawl!

Maybe you're having growing pains. Let me know if you go on a sudden growth spurt. :)

GREAT WORKOUT! Take care of that ankle! I have a really weak right ankle according to the physical therapist I saw last year and I guess it can cause some major problems!!!

Heel pain is the worst, I can not imagine having surgery!!! I told my husband the only pain I can think of that is worse is a tooth ache.

That's a lot of kickboxing. I hope your ankle is okay.

I often feel like I don't want to run when I get up in the morning. Good job getting out and doing it.

I wish I had some advice for you regarding the shin pain, but I don't. I guess just don't try to come back too fast. Take it easy and see if you can keep the pain at bay.

Carolyn- thanks for the advice. I wish I could just get over this and not have to worry about it.

Sorry about the shin pain, stink!!! Hope it gets better soon. When is your race?

Hip hip hooray for a good run!

We all seem to run through all sorts of pain, so do not let anyone judge you! Do what you thin is right!!!

What race?

Smooth, Kelli- I am planning on running the Provo trail half marathon on August 7th. I love that race! It is so pretty and shady.

Thanks for the encouraging words a while back. I've been out of town alot lately but I'm back. You've accomplished alot, very impressive. It's also amazing that your fitting this in while taking care of 5 children. Good luck on your training!

It is a very pretty race, and the pancakes after are GOOD---they hit the spot.

Hooray for no pain. I think you should make your husband be your water boy. That's a good idea.

Hopefully it cools off enough to get your run in! How exciting to get a new chip!

That shoe sensor sounds COOL! So, did you get to take it out for a spin. It was dang hot!

We saw Inception in the afternoon too. Very creative and thought provoking! I usually fall asleep in a movie after a long run, even the action type movie. But not this one, it was quite captivating. I had to stay alert so I wouldn't be confused. Very interesting movie. My guys really love this movie.

Have a great week!

Sounds very high tech. Let us know how you like it (the shoe thingie).

I saw you out running this morning and honked - you's better blog about it :)

High tech stuff frustrates me to no end!

Have fun tomorrow with the new shoes and sensor. Glad you got out and made the best of it! GOOD JOB!

Callie J! Sorry about the sore shin. But nice workout.

GREAT workouts! SWEET data feedback on your run!

I ALWAYS fall asleep in the temple during the *movie*. Doesn't everybody? :)

Let me call you both to repentance (since I'm perfect, and I can.)

Smooth - if you fall asleep, you just denied the sister you did the proxy work for of all the blessings she would have otherwise received and therefore must do it over.

Callie - If you drink a coke before you go to the temple, you really shouldn't be going in. Remember your temple interview and your covenants.

Burt ~ Absolutely! There's beauty in repetitions. I am certain the proxy works I do were already done numerous times previously. :)

Callie ~ NO worries! I am 100% sure the interview questions do not involve drinking coke! I think Burt (who is perfect) has a different set of covenants than the imperfect people.

Maybe that was a question I threw in there when I was in the bishopric. I'm allowed to do that, right?

Come on, Burt. The seats are soft, it's quiet, they turn out the lights, and play soft music. What do you expect?

I expect you not to give away so much of the ceremony. REPENT!!

I pinch myself to stay awake. Seriously, I think we should get FREQUENT FLIER cards and after we have been a certain amount of times we get to go to speed version, skipping the movie altogether. Don't ya think???

I have to say, I have never fallen asleep, but Scott has! I think the chairs are way too uncomfortable, I must be going to the wrong temple!

Hope the night went well! And i am sure the calibration was ON, you just ran faster today and it felt good!

Burt you are a funny man! You will be glad to know Burt, that I did not drink my coke before hand. :) I can't get away with too much stuff because my hubby is a counselor in the bishopric. He is always watching HA HA!

I made it through and only got a little sleepy. :)

Are you sure he is watching? In my experience, all the counselors do during meetings is sleep!

You didn't? Now I feel bad for calling the temple president.

Kelli - I fear for your everlasting salvation. I shall put your name on the prayer role tomorrow.

Thanks Burt. Maybe if I can get my name on every temple prayer roll I will be saved. You did not like my frequent flier idea??? Come on, you know you do!

I think COKE is in our family name somewhere - I certainly can't go a day without it :)

Well,Kelli, if you're like me, you learn something new every time you watch it. EVERY TIME! And I've seen it over 100,000 times.

Hmmmm.....maybe I am sleeping after all!

Good luck at the dentist.

Provo River 1/2 is a beautiful run. I have done it 8 times. Probably won't this year, though. Lacking motivation!

Nice job on the 7. If you need gas, I have plenty of it. My wife and I just started this new diet...

Eww, Burt.

You got some good miles in. I hope you're feeling better now.

Good luck with the dentist. I hate dentists.

Burt - you are so gross! Way to go Cal!

Where is your post for today? I know you ran :)

I love the Happy gas too :)

Oh Toby...here's her entry.

Bummer about the bumper bumping. Fine job on the five jog.

I had a crazy lady honk at me several times and then swerve over today while I was running....turned out it was my sister! RELATIVES!!!!

Way to get out there in the heat, it makes it TOUGH!

Now, about the fender bender: since it was in a parking lot, the cops really do not "care" and the reason they don't is that they can not give tickets on personal property AND the insurance companies always do their own investigation anyway. So, the cops come to get a report for the insurance company, then the insurance company will talk to both of you, then THEY decide whose fault it is and you are at their mercy. (This is my "expertness" from being married to a cop and 2 parking lot accidents.)

Just a big guess here, but since he was reversing, he will most likely be found at fault. According to the cops point of view, anyone reversing is at fault, they do not have the right of way. So, I hope that is how it turns out for you!!

And I feel the same way about my monster suburban!!! However, a tiny little deer can do a ton of damage to even a big car, so steer clear of those!

Kelli- That's good to hear about the reversing thing. I have been sick to my stomach thinking about the whole thing. I did talk to the guys ins. and the man said that it sounds like he is at fault. I sure hope the guy is honest!

Honesty is always an issue!

Crazy - crazy - crazy - cause all my kids were screaming at her! We love you Auntie Cal!

I rock? No, you rock! And how sweet that you almost cried. I'm proud of you, too.

Great job. That's a nice long run, especially starting out with hills.

That is AWESOME! Hills make you stronger! So excited that you ran the whole way! YAY!!! And that pace is NOT slow! Some of my uphill paces are close to 13mm. :)

I must have missed something. What/where is your race next Sat.? GOOD LUCK! Have FUN!!!!

I love that hill! It is a beast to conquer - that is why I love it! Great run Callie Jo!

Are you running the Provo River 1/2? That is a beautiful course. You will do AWESOME!

YOU WILL DO GREAT!!! No worries!

Thanks everyone for the love!!

Smooth- I am running Provo half this saturday. I am really excited!!

Well done!!! CONGRATZ on a great race and strong finish! got to love it when you reeled people in and passed them! You ROCK that course!

I have run this race 4 times and Curt is always so disorganized that I quit running it. You did great for putting up with the chaos and have such a positive attitude!

congratz to your sister's new little daughter!

Passing people is the BEST---not that we want to beat people, just that it makes us feel better, right. Way to go an an awesome race and having fun and feeling good about the entire experience!!

Great job! I think you are coming close to that milestone. Maybe I'll see you at Hobble Creek.

Matt- read your blog....great job on your race!!! Very impressive. I wish I was running Hobble, we will be out of town. Good luck!

Once again, great job! So glad you had a good time and felt like you were on FIRE!

I'm SO proud of you Callie! Remember when we did it together (or maybe you did the 10k, but we rode up together)? So fun! I'm so glad everything felt well! Way to "chick" a few folks on the way down!

Good for you!!!! What a wonderful feeling to pass a couple people ;) Just make sure you give your body a little break (I usually want to start running again before I should). Last time I ran my first half marathon I came back too soon which caused some issues.

Awesome race. Congrats on a great finish. There is nothing better than when a race seems to go just perfect. Enjoy the feeling.

Congratulations on a great race! It's wonderful to have a race that you can feel good about.

Hopefully your sugar daddies watermelon and feta can afford to pay for it once you marry them.

Car repair does cost a fortune!!!

WAY to multi-task running to and fro! Thankgoodness the auto shop isn't miles and miles and miles away! Glad the quads felt great with the run!

Good to see you today! Have fun on the trip!

ugghh...I'd probably need to run another 6 just to get the stress from expensive repairs out of my system!

Glad you are recovering well. Enjoy your trip (when you go)!

Oh, so true! But better to get it fixed before the trip then while traveling, right?? Hope the trips is/was fun!!!

You've probably said, but I'm behind the times. Where are you going on your trip?

Also, I hate car repairs.

Carolyn- We just got back from Southern Cal. We were there for 9 days!! It was awesome, but I was too lazy to do any running. I am re-commiting to it this week!!

WELCOME home! Glad you got a nice vacation before school starts. Yep, back to school and exercise routine again! Hope you have a GREAT week!

Thanks Smooth- We had an awesome time!! I didn't want to come back!

HOLY COW!!! What a story!! I would cry too...after screaming and cussing a bit (well, maybe not with mom and the kids). What a horrible day.

Nice work on the run even if it did get cut short. Sometimes when that happens to me I'll find a way to mosey the first couple miles around the house, then stop back and then head out again.

Dang bees!!! That is why I never roll my window down, they scare me!

Don't you love it when you have to potty while running? It brings us right back to being a 2 year old.

WOW! That is one tough ride. It makes me even more nervous on my bike when I've got the kids with me - smart idea to turn and go home!

I love that hill on my bike ALONE - but no with those cuties :) All the construction is bugging me - there is too much junk on the road!

Train together, race apart!! That is my philosophy!!! If you run the race for fun, it is all good to go together, but if you want to see what you are capable of you need to be on your own. It is amazing just how much the act of TALKING can slow you down (I would know, I never shut up!)

Great job today and good luck with the training!

ditto to Kelli's comment! I notice a significant difference in pace when I'm trying to talk as I run v. racing and pushing myself. So, it all comes down to your goal for the race.

Great job on the miles and pushing the pace, especially since it felt good. Oh, and yes I could beat this weather...with a little WARMTH! I hate cold :(

YAY! So HAPPY you had a *friend run*! It is good to have someone to help push each other to a good race. I wish there was someone who runs my pace or faster that would run races with me. It is really rare to have that relationship. GOOD FOR YOU TWO!

What half marathon is this in Highland?

Double ditto on Kelli's comment. I get way to competitive when it comes to racing. My girlies keep seeing your beautiful 2nd grader at lunch and think they are so cool!

Callie Jo! Did you just call me a wimp?? I'm gonna go cry now.

Burt- only when your sick! :)

I have to agree with you on the sick thing. I am a much bigger wimp than my wife when I am sick. Yeah, Burt, you're a wimp too.

As for your running, just push it as hard as you can without crashing. Keep pushing during your training runs to see where your limits are and then you will know about how fast you will want to go out when you race. Not that I am an expert, but I think it is a good thing to push and then listen to your body. I love pushing myself to test my limits, although I am still scared to death to try and run too fast and crash and burn during a race. :) Have I confused you yet? Ha.

Scott- Thanks for the advice. It was not confusing at all. My goal is to run faster so as hard as it is I am going to have to push myself. Thanks! :)

Way to go Callie! I am getting closer to consistent miles (verses minutes), so we will have to go sometime soon together!

I really like to start slow and then speed up after a mile or two, but if you can handle starting closer to your target pace and you feel okay with the pace after a little bit, I'd say go with it. It will make you stronger.

Who says beached whales aren't hot?

I bet you look good. I'm sure your husband is quite the hotty too. Tell him Burt says hi. He'll know what it means.

Can I go? Cal, you look fabulous!

yes life IS busy! I only get to play computer queen while nursing - I look forward to it :)

How are things lately Callie?

Callie ~~~ So NICE of you to *drop* by my blog amidst your busy life! Glad you're still running and working out! Hope you're enjoying your family and this beautiful Fall weather! :)

YAY! I will see you at Painter's. Just registered and booked the hotel yesterday, I'm ready to go. Now I just need to start running again :)

Where are you staying? I need to book mine as well. That's me as well. I am soo out of shape!!

A huge breakfast and Thanksgiving dinner? LUCKY YOU!!!!

Welcome back! I am running Painters with my friend so I hope to see you there. We are shooting to have her finish under 2:00:00, even if only by a second!

Callie McGally, did you get that Recovery Drink I sent you?

Do you want some Kelli? I should send you a pack.

You should, since I sent you cookies and all!!!!!

I know. That's what I'm talking about. I think I still have your address somewhere.

burt, I did get the drink stuff. Thank you very much!

Kelli, yeah for painters! I am shooting for around 2:00 as well. Let me know what your # is. Maybe we will "run" into each other.

I think you should just join us for the run, Callie! We will LOOK for you!!!

Kelli, I just might join you. As of right now I am running it alone. That would be so fun. I might have a hard time keeping up with you guys.

Wendy's fastest 1/2 marathon to date is 2:00:08, so we are going for 1:59:59. I am sure you could do it! And we have so much fun.

I'm excited, too!

Okay, so I'm a bad blogging buddy. Which race are you doing and when? And what is this about your knee? Seems like a new problem, but I was hoping to come here and NOT see injuries :(

Did you go and see the foot doctor? What is the WORD? Loved your post on Jenny's blog today! Hope your clan is doing good!

Rad- I am running the St.George half in Jan. things are going good. I just think my knee is sore from my longer runs. Aren't you running that race?

Toby- I haven't gone to see the foot Dr yet. I decided if it keeps hurting with my running then I will go to him. My foot is kind of funny, if I am running consistently the pain will go away. So far so good.

Congrats on your dresses!

I'm a good blogging buddy because I could have answered those questions.

How's the knee feeling now?

Hope you and yours are doing well! :)

Hope the knee is better, I am counting on you to run that half with us!!!!

How are things going???

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Hey Kelli~ things are going better. I got the full blown influenza! Knocked me out! I'm all better and still planning on running the race. I don't know if I am going to be able to keep up with you and your friend, but I will run with you guys for as long as I can. I am really excited for this race. Won't be as fast as i was planning on because of the missed training time, but it will be awesome!

Sorry to hear you were sick, that is no fun! I do not think I have ever actually had the real flu, NOT FUN!!!

You will be good, you still have a good 3 weeks or so of training, just do not over do it! My friend (Wendy) is currently injured and will not be running for yet another week, we will see how she is next week. So, we will probably be slower, too, but I am still hoping for a 1:59:59!!!

Missed you at the New Years run!!!!

HOW IS EVERYTHING!!!

RACE REPORT???? I am being punished for losing your cell number.