Each Day Is a Gift

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!! :) :) :)

The whole family went skiing today!!!  Brrrr it was below zero when we got to the ski resort.  There was hardly anybody on the road or the slopes.  I got 10 runs done by 10:30 and went in the brown bag lounge to thaw out my frozen digits.   Took an hour long leisure lunch then skied for 2.5 hours more with the grand nieces and nephews.  SO MUCH FUN!!! :)

This week I start week 4 of the 18 week training for Boston.  Well, actually I'm not really training to "race" Boston....just training to get to Boston healthy and to be able to finish in one piece!

Ran 6 miles on the treadmill with some 1min on/off thrown in.   I am too wimpy these days to go out on the ice and frozen tundra, not to mention the poor air quality which may trigger my asthma. :)

Then hubby and I went swimming at the LC.  BOY!!! That place was packed with families!  So I did the TI drill on the shallow end of the regular pool.  I'm getting the hang of "underswitch" FINALLY!!!

Then we went to lunch and movie, Les Miserable, with Bryan.  Then we went to a wedding reception of my husband's counselor's daughter.  They are such an awesome family, the whole church was packed!  :)

Hubby had a funeral to preside and visits to make this morning.  So Karen and I went to the LC by ourselves.  We ran one mile on the track until two treadmills become available.  I ran faster than I wanted because it's just too boring to run indoor especially on the mill.  This Utah inversion has got to go away.  I wish I could go up to the ski resort and run there! 

We then swim for 30 min and got in the jacuzzi for some hydro therapy. 

Ran with Karen on the LC track, all the treadmills were taken plus a tm class was to start in 20 min.   After 3 miles, we went down to the front desk and asked if we could possibly change direction...NOPE!!!  The rule remains that direction is changed on daily basis. Runners/walkers must run the same direction for the day.  So we wrote up a suggestion for the manager to give to Dan, the boss who doesn't come in on Friday.  "Please for the sake of runners who run more than 3 miles (8 laps = 1 mile) to allow change of directions at least hourly to prevent injuries as runners make over 6 tight turns on each lap."  They would not need to put up the directional arrow signs daily, just a permanent sign to state that on the odd hour go clockwise, on the even hour go counter-clockwise."  Then we ran back to the track for another two miles; by then my right ITB was not happy.  It seemed to bug more running clockwise...if the track wasn't so crowded I would've changed direction on the outside lane.

Karen got to the gym 3 min before me and found two available treadmills side by side, YAY!!! :)  Neither of us wanted to run fast so we chatted away.  But then we got inspired by the speedy girls in front of us, Melanie and JulieE, who had already run 11 miles.  WOW!!!  Such dedication and awesome running forms. :) They took a quick water break and chatted a bit with us before finishing their 14 miler.  I showed Karen the one min on/off thing and we did 8 of those then had to restart the mill.  It stops after 60 min. and put you on cool-down mode..so annoying.  We did 8 miles and decided it's time to let others use the mill.  Karen had to go to a piano recital in Orem so she only had time to run 2 more miles on the track.  We booked it on those 2 miles in around 16ish min.  Then I ran for 1.5 more for a total of 11.5 miles.  28 laps is all I can handle plus it was getting crowded...not fun weaving in and out of people!  The right ITB bugged on the mill but felt okay on the track going counter-clockwise with the bum leg on the outside turn. 

Swam/TI drills for 40 min.  Starving!!!!  Was too early to eat breakfast before the run!  :)

Marathons/races I ran in 2012 (Stress fracture of the right 5th metatarsal in Feb & May)

Total miles ran in 2012:  1,584.58

3 progressive TM miles. Myrtle. 3 circuits Pfitz's CSE 30 reps Flanagan stability ball planks 10 reps x 3.

After hubby came home from skiing we went to the pool and ran into Chad and his handsome tall boy coming out of LC! :). Did 45 min TI drill. The special students (Down syndrome folks) from Hive always play in the pool on Monday afternoons. They make me appreciate simple things of life when I watch how they give/share from their hearts, so pure and childlike! :)

With less than 14 weeks left 'till Boston (8 weeks 'till Phoenix), I am starting to panic that I won't be ready.  I have not done any speedwork forever, 2 or 3 year?  The last couple years I just ran whatever and enjoyed "doing" marathons.  In 2012, with two stress fractures (Feb and May), asthma (March) and tachycardia issues (July), I did minimal training and merely survived the 10 marathons.  I have gained quite a bit of weight, gotten very out of shape and basically pretended to be a runner! 

It is time to rebuild and get a training plan in motion.  But I need to be careful and build my base gradually to avoid injury.  I feel that my current fitness level is similar to back in 2007.  As a newbie I had only run two marathons (4:38 in SGM'05 and 4:28 in'06).  I think I used the Hal Higdon's Intermediate 18 weeks training plan in 2007 and running the Grand slam to help me BQ in SGM'07.  So, I feel that with a bit more experience, I'll use the same training plan for mileage guideline and tweaked it a bit to add speedwork and hill work when the body is ready. 

This morning was the first time I awake with no knee pain since the last marathon 16 days ago.  The plan says to run 6 miles.  So I warmed up for 19 min starting at 5mph to 6mph and then began the one min on/off.  I ran the ON at 8mph and OFF at 6mph.  It's disheartening to think that I used to run the ON at 9mph.  I thought perhaps I could do 10x but when I realized I was short on time, I just kept the on/off going 'till I reached 6 miles.  Lo and behold I hit 6 miles right at 54 min flat so that was 18x.  Yay, may be next time I can do 20x. :)

Felt good to run fast again albeit for one minute at a time (sadly 7:30 is fast for me now).  I really don't know what my marathon pace is any more.  Good news is that now 12 hours later my knee is not hurting.  Been busy all day though so will see how it feels when I wake up in the morning.

On a side note, I received a new calling to be Webelos leader last Sunday.  Tonight I held my very first Webelos Den Mtg.  I have not done any cub scouting for 13 years when I was a Bear Den leader for my youngest boy.  I was a little nervous at first, but thankfully I have a co-leader who is a 4th grade teacher and knows how to handle 10 year old boys.  It was a lot of fun having one of the boys' father, a Geologist come to teach them.  I learned quite a bit about geology myself too!  The only "bad" thing is I have to miss my favorite Yoga class on Tue nights.  :(

Oh, and I booked our flights to Boston this afternoon!!!! :)  I better train smart and get to the start line healthy! :)

Ran 3 miles on the track, not sure about the pace, based on the clocks there probably 9:20 pace.  Each time I lapped hubby, he'd say:  "you are going too fast!" :)  Then we went down to the pool and was delighted to see Karen and her daughter Amy there.  We swam and chatted for 45 min or so.

Was tempted to run outside when I saw the mountains!!!! meaning inversion is outa here...but what blows the inversion away, WIND, is just as evil for my pulmonary system! So went back to my original plan...HILLWORK!!!

Warm up 1.75 miles from 5-6.3mph at 1.5 % grade.

Increase incline 0.5% every .25 mile at 6.3 mph (9:31 pace)

Reached mile 5 at 8% and had to hang on. So decrease the pace 0.1mph with each 0.5% increase until I reached 10% at 10:40 pace!

Cool down @2% at 7mph (8:34) for 0.5 mile and 0.25 mile at 6.5mph (9:13).

7 miles in 68:20 (AP 9:45), not sure about vertical gain for the 5.5 miles climb.

Myrtle 15 reps. 3 circuits Pfitz CSE 30 reps. Stability ball planks 10reps x3.

Foam roll and stretch.

3 miles on the track. 45 min in the pool.

Karen and I went to the LC and luckily found two TMs side by side. Oh, it was great to see Chad there already put in an hour of run. Stopped to gu after 10K then restart the TM and ran another 6.3 for 12.5. Then we got off the TM so someone else can use it and ran 2 more on the track. We were booking it those two mile took ~15 min. Got to chat with Melanie a little as she was finished with her TM speedwork AFTER she had already done her long run in Provo/Orem. So dedicated!!! :)

Core. Yoga.

Another single digit freezing cold morning.  Ran 3 on track.  45 min pool time. 

4 degrees and smog so to the LC Karen and I go!  6 TM miles with 10X 1 min on/off (8mph/6mph).  Finished the run with two quick miles on the track.  Saw lots of friends and neighbors there, one of whom was Sister Lamb who must be near 80 now.  She was my very first RS president when we moved here 33 years ago! :)

Birthday lunch for Wendy (it's her birthday today) with Diane, Carolyn and Karen at Olive Garden!  :)  

Wendy's boy, Eric was set apart as a missionary tonight by hubby in his home and I was privileged to attend before going to my Webelos den meeting.   He is going to be an awesome missionary in Boston Mass.  :)

Same as Monday.  3 easy miles with Karen on the track.  45 min in the pool.

When is this inversion going away?!!!  I hope I remember how to run on pavement this Sat. :) 

Smog = bad air quality = dreadmill day again!!! :(

Hill work ~ warm up 1.75 mi @ 2% (5-6.3mph).  Increase incline 0.5% every half mile to 7% (6.3mph).  Cool down 1 mi @ 2% (6.5mph)

Karen and her family (husband and four daughters) picked me up around 9:15 for our long drive to Vegas where Karen's youngest daughter is playing in a soccer tournament (Cup Vegas).  

I absolutely love her and her family, such good good kids with genuine caring and fun loving personalities.  We stopped at the Dixie Center around 2 to pick up our race packets and grabbed lunch at Wendy's.

Made it to Karen's sister's house safe and sound.  What a loving group of aunts, uncles, cousins, grandma and grandpa, all there to support little 10 year old Grace's game.  And they always treat me like part of their family.

The sun was setting as we drove to the soccer field just before 5pm Nevada time.  It was getting chilly, unusually cold for Vegas.  The soccer venue is huge with 7 or 8 fields.  We set up chairs and huddled in blankets.  The game started at 5:30 (which is 6:30 Utah time).  Grace scored the first point and eventually another point of the 7 points in a 7-0 game.  Karen and I left before the game ended to go grab dinner and drive back to St. George.  So, we ate dinner (Chicken Yakisoba) kinda late at around 8p and got to Karen's parent's house in Santa Clara around 10p.  Karen's other sister who lives in St George met us there to open the house for us.  We visited with Julie for about an hour.  Karen's parents went to Vegas to watch Grace play soccer so we had the house to ourselves.  Karen slept in her parent's bed while I slept in the spare bedroom... so nice!  :)  I took a Tylenol PM and drifted off soon after midnight!   Tomorrow's Half Marathon is going to be a fun fun Sat. medium long run with friends! :)

So nice to sleep in at Karen's mom's house, with own bed and bathroom!  Karen and I left the house just before 8am with a stop to fill up the car and got to the Dixie Center with 45 min to spare.  I got a little sentimental realizing that this might be my last time running this Half Marathon.  This is my 7th consecutive SG Half, as part of the Runner's Series to get into SGM.  Next year I won't need to run the RS for my 10th SGM.  This is one of my favorite halfs (Spanish Fork Half being the other one).  It is an honest course, well organized, plus where else in Utah in the dead of winter can you run a half marathon with beautiful scenery and weather, not to mention seeing so many wonderful running friends and FBRers! :)

Toby and her neighbors found me and Karen and we went to take my overnight bag to Toby's car.  (I have asked to hitch a ride home with her).  The three of us started together about 90 seconds after the gun.  Temp was probably 29 as Toby nearly slipped on some black ice going to the car.  The weather was perfect with clear blue sunny sky, NO wind.  We chatted away for 6 miles.  I was talking up a storm about running form when the first hill came upon us.  I demonstrated how pumping the arms helped lift the knees for uphill running and unintentionally ran ahead.  Toby and Karen stayed close.  I never looked at my Garmin as it was hidden under the sleeves of my two layers of long sleeve shirts.  I just ran by feel and frankly didn't want to know how badly my fitness level has slipped.  I am guessing that if my fitness level is back to when I was a newbie in 2007 where I ran my first Painter's Half, I would probably be running somewhere around 9:30 pace.  Lo and behold at mile 9ish, I took off my top layer and saw our average pace right on at 9:30.  It's encouraging to me that my breathing felt good, no tightness to speak of, stride was smooth and fluid.  YES! my legs remember how to run on pavement!  :)

With 5K left to go, I told Karen we ought to pick up the pace a little.  With 1 mile to go, I said to Karen, "this is our daily run between your house and mine, one mile, we can do it, we'll finish with enough time for you to make your drive back to Vegas for Grace's 2nd soccer game!"  How's that for pep talk! :)  With probably half mile to go, almost at the exact same spot Kelli spotted me last year,  there was Kelli running back on the course to look for her friend, Wendy.  So Kelli ran with us to the mile 13 marker.  It was so great to run a little with her.  RAD and Misty, and Karen's sister, Julie, were at the finish to greet us. :)

After crossing the finish, we quickly grabbed some chocolate milk and goodies, said goodbye to Karen and went back to Toby's hotel.  It was so wonderful to have Toby's company, I have missed her so much.  The drive home with a stop at Cafe Rio was so fun and will remain one of my treasured memories!  :)

This morning at Sacrament Mtg. a sister and brother spoke.  Both are leaving for their missions within one week of each other.  Susannah was in my Joy School with my youngest son some 16+ years ago.  She has grown up to be a beautiful, intelligent and spiritual young lady.  She is going to the Baltic States to serve a full time mission.  She will be a fantastic missionary.  Her younger brother, Wesley, was this adorable boy with a low voice.  He has also grown up and still have the same nice voice, in fact, he was my choir president (singing bass) always ready with a weekly witty and funny email to invite ward members to come to choir practice.  He too is smart and spiritual.  He will be a WONDERFUL missionary in Cambodia. 

My choir sang "I'll Go Where You Want Me to Go!", an arrangement by Craig Petrie.  It is a delightful piece with Primary song like accompaniment.  http://www.petriefamily.org/ldsmusic/GoWhereYouWantMe.htm  I LOVE the words of this hymn, especially the last phrase:  "...so trusting my all to Thy tender care, And knowing Thou lovest me,  I WILL do Thy will with a heart sincere; I'll BE what you want ME to be!"

Wonderful ski day with hubby and our son, Bryan, under clear blue sky, calm and temp of 35F.  (High was 19 down in the valley.)  We were first ones there when the lift opened.  My boy encouraged me to "embrace my fear" and ski down Sunshine Bowl via Eagle Express.  It has been years since I skied down that thing because I biffed pretty badly the last time and swore I'd never do that again, I was pretty traumatized.  With no one on the slope, it was a good opportunity to conquer that beast.  So, I did, with trepidation and shaking like a leaf I skied down Sunshine Bowl without falling.  It was not pretty but I did it.  I got that monkey off my back.  I happily skied down another trail that I've never skied before.  It was a great day.  So grateful to spend the day with my family, to enjoy clean air and play in this wonderful winter playground God created for us.

After 6 hours of skiing, hubby wanted to go to the LC and soak in the jacuzzi.  Boy!  the pool was CROWDED!  I swam couple of lengths then joined hubby in the jacuzzi. 

AM:  Went to LC with hubby and Karen.  We were able to have 3 TMs side by side, yay!:)

Warm up 1.5 miles (from 5.5mph to 6.5mph) @2% incline.  

1 mile @ 3% at 6.3mph.  0.5 mi @ 1% at 6.5mph

1 mile @ 4% at 6.3mph.  0.5 mi @ 1% at 6.5mph

1 mile @ 5% at 6.3mph.  0.5 mi @ 0% (from 6.3mph to 8mph)

45 min pool time.

Evening:  Yoga.  I really miss this class.  It was packed tonight, wall to wall.  Too bad I can only come once a month.  

Could not fall asleep to save my life last night...lots to think about I guess!  Drag my tired self out of bed and met Karen at the LC.  Hubby did 1 mi on TM 2 mi on track then waited for us down at the pool. :)

4.25 progressive miles on the TM in 38:30.  Had to get off the TM because the tread class was about to start in 5 min.  One gal put her pass on my TM (when I had been on it for less than 10 min.) so she could reserve it for the class...CRAZY!!!  :)  Oh, I was next to Mia Love, the mayor of Saratoga Spring.  She was very speedy! :)

Finish the run on the track.  3 miles in 24:00. 

45 min pool time... SO tired...SO hungry...I was just floating and gliding along! Hubby was talking to Ms. Cooper (whose cousin manages the pool) who is there regularly.  Turned out we were in the same Stake.  Anyhow, I mentioned that I don't really know how to swim.  She said:  "You could've fooled me!  Every time I saw you; you were swimming pretty good to me!"  She's too kind!  Then hubby and Karen chimed in:  "yeah, she says she doesn't know how to swim...it's like telling us she doesn't know how to run!"  I digress!!!  :)  Seriously, I took 6 beginning lessons for the first time in my life last Sept. (from a 15 yo girl) learning how to float on my back, put my face in the water, breath without swallowing water, kick with a kickboard.  I am just barely swimming across a shallow pool still with fear of drowning.  It is going to take me a long time before I graduate to the regular pool.  :)

Oh...these pix just in...check out our perfect running forms! :) 

1 mile wu.  5 tempo (8:34, 8:27, 8:20, 8:13, 8:00) last 0.5 mi @ 7:30.  No time for cool down.   TT: 53:10 AP: 8:54.

Busy day!  Temple, dentist, visits, etc.  :) 

My first Pack Mtg. went well last night.  5 of my Webelos received their Arrow of Light.  It was an awesome ceremony.  Huge support from parents and families! :)

Karen and I drove all the way to the Olympic Oval, only to find out that the track was closed because of some ice-skating event.  What a bummer!  We called to see if the BYU indoor track was opened for general public, nope.  We would've driven up to Park City if we were dressed for outdoor running.  Strike out, so we drove back home to the LC.  The round trip drive took over an hour because of the foggy/icy condition!  Grrrggghhh!!! :/

All the mills were taken because the tread class has just started.  So we ran on the track for 48 laps (6 miles).  Then we drank, gu'd and got on the tm for an hour (6.5 miles).  If it weren't for Karen's company, I would've quit after 10 min.  That machine is sheer torture.  Finished the run on the track for 3 more miles.  What a drag!!!!  I sure hope this icky inversion goes away soon! 

Hurried home to shower, grab a bite and head to a very important meeting!  :)

Lots of talking, laughing, crying, planning, discussions, contemplating = very little sleep.  Finally got out to the LC.  Ran 3.5 miles.  Swam 30 min.  Relaxed in the jacuzzi.  May be we'll go out to movie and dinner! :)   Happy weekend all.  Hope the inversion goes away soon! :)

Wahooo!!!  Clear BLUE SKY!!!  :)  My FIRST winter run of the year!!!!  :)  I was SO excited!!!  We (Wendy, Karen {Sky} and I) bundled up with fleece tops, beanies, ski mittens, wool socks and tights; then headed out for some fresh air and Vitamin D. :)  Temp was in the low 20s but the north wind made it a bit chilly.  My face was too numb during the first mile to talk so I just listened as my dear friends get caught up on each others' lives! :)  We had to walk on some icy patches...but the rest of the road/trail/sidewalk was either clear, wet, crunchy peanut brittle snow or soft cornstarch snow.  Turned around at the west end of the Canal Trail facing the east sun and mountains was heavenly!  Hope the inversion stays away! :) :) :)

Myrtle 15 reps.  3 circuits of Pfitzinger's CSE (30 reps/30 sec.) along with Teena's bridge and Flanagan's stability ball planks (10 reps)! 

Repeat of yesterday. Shoveled snow. Picked up Karen. Ran 6 on track in 54 min. Including a water break half way. Karen ran 3 then swam. I joined them in the pool later and only swam 6 laps...I was not very smooth today, :).

Then we went to lunch at KFC. Took Karen home and our car got stuck in a snow bank. Two guys stopped and helped hubby pushed while I gunned the engine! Whew!

Two and a half hours of snow shoveling in the afternoon, except the snow is heavier and wetter today. Hubby did three other neighbors' driveways and sidewalks. Very interesting to see so many different kinds of snow falling while I was shoveling. Got all sweaty again! My arms and wrists are sore! :)

Bryan's flight (from Boston w/ layover at Charlotte, NC) was delayed for over two hours. We got home from the airport just before 2am. When I went to bed, my left wrist and forearms were so sore that I had a hard time falling asleep even though I was exhausted. Was so tired this morning...did not want to get up. Karen texted me and said she was coming to get me in 5 min. Woweee, I set a PR...quickly got up, brushed teeth, dressed, put swim gear and water bottle, etc. in gym bag, kissed hubby goodbye (he'll join us later) and out the door!

It was crowded in the cardio room. Karen got on the TM and I on the bike closest to her. I peddlled foggy-mindedly for a a mile. Then got on the TM when it became available.

Speed work today, Did not have it in me to do any 800s today. Warm up 24 min from (5-6.5mph) then did one min ON at 7:30 and one min OFF at 10:00 x18. Finished with 5 min cool down. 6.75 in exactly 65 min.

4 laps TI drill, swam 6 laps. Calves felt tight. Stretches in the jacuzzi.

Early lunch...now I have mountains of laundry to do, then take Bryan to the airport at 2pm for his flight to Michigan. He had two auditions 2 days ago in Boston (New England Conservatory) for two different music festivals this summer. We took him to the airport for his midnight flight to Boston on Monday. Less than 12 hours later (he had class and test this morning at BYU), he has to fly out again for auditons for grad school in Michigan on Fri and in Houston on Mon. We get to pick him up at midnight again next Monday. We have already done this for two other weekends, Indianna and Maryland. He has three more to go, Boston NEC, Cleveland and Colburn in Los Angeles. Crazy crazy boy and his pursuit of excellence! :)

Another late night and little sleep...it didn't dampen my excitement and anticipation for today's run knowing it's our window of opportunity for a long run without inversion. Got out the door at 8:15 to meet Karen. Temp was 20, slight wind, blue sky and the sun warms our spirit if not the fingers and toes!

We ran up to Westfield via Suncrest and stopped at the elementary mile 4 for a quick drink of water then continued to the Alpine park, mile 6ish to gu and use the bathroom. The road shoulder was narrowed by snow piles and lots of icy patches at intersections and driveways so sometimes we had to run single-filed, nevertheless we carried on with easy pace and abundance of conversations.

We decided to stay on the main road even though the shoulders were narrow and had to watch for traffic because the side roads were not plowed neither were the trails and sidewalks. We turned south towards the roundabout in Alpine then east to the North County Rd and south to the temple then north and west to the AF Jr. High, mile 12, where we used the bathroom, ate another gu and water. I think I hit a low point or bonk the next mile. My Garmin battery was low and died after 6 miles...it's a good thing cause I didn't want to know how slow I was going. Karen gave me couple of her chews so we walked while we ate. I felt revived 5 min later. Karen said we were running 12mm when we were bonking, but the last 4 miles we picked up the pace to the high 9s. It felt like the end of a marathon, running on tired legs. Why is it the first long run of the season/training cycle seems the hardest? I am so grateful for Karen's company and for a gorgeous day to be running outside!

After I got home, hubby and I went to the pool while he swam I soaked in the cool water, stretched and enjoyed some hydro therapy in the jacuzzi. Then we went to lunch and home to check on the progress of the hardwood floor installation in the kitchen. Cleaned up the house a bit and went to the temple in the evening and had dinner at the temple cafeteria. It's a perfect day! :)

Fasting blood test first thing in the morning then Webelos Pow Wow from 8a - 1:30p. Then babysat Skylar while her parents went to the temple. Then out to dinner with the family and movie night with the hub! :)

It's pea soup out there! :(. So off to the LC we went for hill workout!

Half mile warm up (5.5-6.3 mph) @1%

Increase incline 0.5% every 0.25 mile to "the hill" at 6% (mile 2).

Hill repeats ~ run up 0.25 mile @6% in 9:34, run down 0.25 mile @1% in 7:30 x 5.

Up 0.25 mile @7% in 9:12 and down 0.25 mile @0.5% in 7:30 x 3.

Wanted to do two more repeats at 7% but the tread class people came so I got off the TM at 5.75 miles in 53:10.

Took a quick drink from the fountain. Ran 2.25 on the track in ~ 18 min for cool down.

Swam 6 laps. SO thirsty!

Core stability exercise after I got home.

A very very special day...one that I shall treasure forever!  

Progressive run on the treadmill.  Again got off the mill when I reached 7 miles for this same girl who puts her tread class pass on my mill half hour before class starts to reserve it.  She comes back, stands there hovering over me 10 min before class begins...why so impatient?  But, it did make me run faster! :)  Finish the cool down 3 miles on the track in 27 min.  Poor Karen and Leslie who came 15 min after me and there was only one mill available so they biked and elliptic.  Met them down at the pool later but it was overtaken by Jr High girls so I bagged the swim. 

Easy run on the track in 27-28 min.

Quick version of Myrtle and Pftiz's CSE.

 Swam 10 laps.  

Karen and I must've lived right!  Another lucky window of opportunity to run outside.  Temp was in the low 30s, calm, cloudy and relatively fresh air as we could see the mountains and foothills.  We ran to the Elementary school at mile 4 for a quick drink then to the eternal fountain at the Alpine Park mile 6.2 to gu, drink and potty break.  Continue east and north in Alpine and turned around at mile 7.75 and head back the same way with the same two stops for drink.  Perfect weather and condition to run.  When we finished we walked a bit and saw that it was snowing in Alpine where we had run earlier.  Now it is a whiteout blizzard out there!!!  :)

3.5 miles in 27 min on the track.

10 laps in the leisure pool.

Stretch and hydro massage in the jacuzzi. Core.

Going to celebrate Chinese New Year tonight with the family and Gary who's in town to ski. Chinese New Year lands on Feb. 10 this year...since China is about 18 hours ahead...so it's already New year Day over there! :). Gung Hei Faat Choi everyone! :)

We went to the LC early thinking we'd beat the crowd and get a treadmill...WRONG!!!  Every cardio machine was taken and there were 4 people standing in line waiting for a mill.  They won't give out tread pass until 9.  So annoying!!! 

We ran on the track easy for 3 miles, then went downstairs to the front desk to get a tread pass.  Now I'm the one putting a pass on a mill that someone is running on!  Then back on the track for another 2.5 miles until "my reserved" mill became available.  Now I know why that girl hovered over me because those coming 15 min before class were not able to get a pass.  I jogged 1 mile on the mill chatting with the instructor and Karen and another girl from our Stake before the tread class started at 9:30am.  So ridiculous!

I felt guilty taking a pass so I decided to stay and do the whole 60 min class (instead of my planned hill workout).  This is what Leslie had us do:

Warm up 5 min. to base pace (10K-HM).  I decided on 7mph (8:34) to "round up" the number! :)  Run at base pace for 5 min.

Run 2 min at 0.5mph faster than base (8:00).

Decrease pace 0.1 every min. to base.  Ran at base (8:34) for 2 min.

Run 2 min at 1.0mph faster than base (7:30).

Decrease pace 0.1 every min.  to 0.5 above base. Run @ 8:00 for 2 min.  Decrease pace 0.1 every min to base.  Ran at base (8:34) for 2 min.

Run 2 min at 1.4mph above base (7:12).

Same gradual decrease as above.  Run 2 min @ 7:30.  Decrease pace as before to base.  Ran at base for 2 min. 

Run 2 min at 1.5mph above base (7:03).  Same decrease as above.  2 min @ 7:30 and so on till we get back down to base.  5 min at base.  5 min cool down. 

7:10 miles in exactly 60 min.  (0.1 mi was at walking pace that I'm not counting in the mileage).

Hubby ran 2 miles then swam.  Karen could only stay for 30 min of the tread class and left.  After 13.5 miles I was depleted (no breakfast, just water), I decided to go home with hubby so no swimming for me.  May do some yoga tonight!

Happy Monday and first day of the Chinese New Year! :) :) :)

3 easy recovery style miles on the TM next to hubby and Karen...cannot believe the available TMs today versus yesterday's madness.  Chatted about our travel plan for the PHX marathon in two weeks. 

Swam 20 laps. 

Went to the Dr. office for some immunizations.  Shopping at Costco.

Got to the LC early and found ONE available TM!  Hubby ran on the track.  Karen did upright bike and elliptical.

Hill repeats day! :)

1 mi warm up at 1% incline.

0.25 mile hill repeats starting at 5% incline with 0.25 mile recovery at 0%.  Increase incline by 0.5% every mile.  Top out at 7% in 5 miles.  All "uphills" are run at 9:31.  All "recovery/down hills" are run at 8:34.  7 miles TT= 62:30. 

2 miles cool down on the track in 16 min. No time for swimming today. 

Could feel slight airway congestion on the drive home so took 2 puffs of Symbicort when I got home.  Lunch date with a special friend. :) Visitors coming to the house this afternoon.  Dinner date with our long time friends from Idaho tonight!  Happy Day!!! :)

**************************

After our Idaho friends, the Tateoka's left, we opened the email from Jordan K.  that informed us we should be receiving our mission assignment call letter via FedEx in the next few days.  We are to be sensitive who would be in our presence when we open the letter.  Within the letter will also be directive of the date that we can announce our assignment broadly.  We seriously could not fall asleep thinking about where the Lord has assigned us to serve.  All we know is that Pres. Uchtdorf told us that it will be English speaking. :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :)

What a special special day this is.  First thing in the morning we went to the doc. office to have my TB test indulation measured and chest X-ray taken.  Then we went to the temple, our monthly temple date with my old friends.  After the session, we had lunch in the cafeteria and shared the happy news with our friends of our call to be Mission President and Companion.  We had to leave early as Bryan would be coming home before 2p so we could take him to the airport for his flight to Boston.  We also got a call from Eric that he has changed his flight to arrive earlier (instead of 7:15p, it's now 4:05p) so that works out better that we don't have to go back to the airport twice.

When we got home from the temple, a FedEx envelope was waiting on our porch.  We knew exactly what it is because of the email we received last night.  We went into our bedroom and sat down on the love-seat so we could have a prayerful, quiet moment when we open our Mission assignment letter.

We are called to preside over the Australia Sydney South Mission!!! 

With much humility and gratitude we knelt in prayer to thank the Lord for entrusting us to this special part of His vineyard.  Tears of joy, excitement, gratitude, flowed freely.  We were overjoyed, thrilled, as well as overwhelmed by the great responsibility that lies ahead of us.  What an exciting time to be involved in missionary work.  What an honor and privilege it is to receive this sacred and special call from the First Presidency of the Church to preside, to love, guide, teach, train, nurture 250 missionaries in Sydney Australia.

I am writing this entry today (Tue Feb 19).  We were advised to not announce our assignment until after Feb 15 (one day after we received the assignment). 

Bryan came home within 15 min.  We drove him to the airport, said goodbye and went to grab a smoothie close to the airport and returned 45 min. later to pick up Eric. 

It is so funny that Eric (who's living and doing his residency in Cleveland) comes home after a 4 days surgical conference in Las Vegas to ski in Utah while his brother travels to Boston today for his audition at New England Conservatory on Fri. and will fly to Cleveland (where Eric lives) to audition at the Cleveland Institute of Music on Sun.  They are crossing paths.  Our other son, Jeff flies out early Sunday morning to New Orleans for work conference this coming week.  Eric will fly to New Orleans for surgical conference the following week.  Why is it that we can't get these brothers to be at the same place at the same time?!!!  CRAZY how many airport trips we have made this last 5 weeks and still more to come! :)

:) :) :) RAD's Birthday Run (aka RAD's Treasure Hunt Run)!!!! :) :) :)

I texted RAD at the last min yesterday to ask her to email me her Birthday Run (33 mi) route so that Karen and I could join her for part of it.  The original plan was to park our car at the finish and run 10 miles up the route (backward) to meet her (at her mile 23) and turn around and run her to the finish for a 20 miler.  It was late when I looked at the map she emailed me so I just forwarded it to Karen and she would figure out the route since she would be driving us to the finish/start at the JRP park on 123rd South.

When I got up and studied the route, I realized that we could cut across on 12600 and meet RAD at her mile 17+ and run the Mtn View Corridor loop with her all the way to the finish.  That way we wouldn't have to run the same 10 miles twice.  It seemed to be a wise decision at the time since all we had to do is run straight west and meet her at the Maverick which is about 5 miles and she would take us to the finish...a perfect 20+ mile loop.  Just to play it safe, Karen printed out the map and we would call RAD on my cell.  I was SO EXCITED to be part of RAD's epic birthday run! :) :) :) :) :)

We got to the JRP park and found the bathroom locked.  Temp was colder than I expected.  We started our run and had to return to the car couple times since Karen didn't like wearing the fuel belt (had to reset/restart the run couple of times).  I finally started the Garmin officially and checked the time on my phone, 9:32am, perfect!  I figured if we run 10:30 pace, going uphill in heavy traffic on 126th South we should arrive at the Maverick by 10:30 which would give us 10 min potty time before RAD and Kelli get there.  They were supposed to start their run at 8am and at a 9mm average pace should arrive at mile 17ish around 10:40ish.  Karen has been having PF issue on her right heel and I have been worrying about my shins so we took it nice and easy.  That first 5 miles was uphill and we ran with traffic which was rather nerve racking at times. 

We reached Maverick with plenty of time to use the bathroom, gu, tape over the loose end of Karen's KT tape and called RAD.  She said they're about 3 miles away.  I thought about running north to meet them but she said they're NOT on the road but on the urban trail.  Since I am not familiar with the trail, I decided to either wait for her or run ahead to get a head start knowing how much faster Rachel and Kelli would run compare to me and Karen.  While talking to RAD, she was laughing and mentioned that their pace is slowed by the packed snow so they're behind schedule.  I told Karen that RAD is in REALLY happy mood...she's laughing...so she wouldn't mind us going on ahead to the Mtn View Corridor since it is a long 6 miles stretch and she would easily catch up to us.  So I called RAD back and told her our plan. 

I had never been to the Mtn View Corridor before.  I was totally blown away by how "remote" that road is.  It has a beautiful view of the valley and mountain to the east (dah, they don't call it Mtn. View for no reason).  I was not prepared for the up-up-up-hill and freezing cold headwind.  Two miles into the corridor climb, I had to pee bad.  (Too bad RAD didn't arrange to drop off a port-a-potty along that stretch of road, hehe! :-D ).  I saw a building in the distance and thought may be we could run there and see if it's open.  Then we ran alongside a 4ft high cement barrier that stretches for a good half + mile and when we got to the end, I decided to go back behind the barrier and walk further back so oncoming traffic won't get "mooned".   Freezing and laughing hysterically when RAD called as we reached the high point of the corridor.  (This was just before we went behind the barrier-make-shift-pop).  She has miscalculated her distance when we last spoke.  They were actually 5+ miles back instead of 3 when we spoke last at Maverick!  She told me where she had stashed her "aid station", a huge green bag of drinks, cans of Dr. Pepper, food, etc. and to call her when we get there.

My fingers were so cold and face so numb that I could barely use the cell when we reached RAD's green bag at the corner of MV Corridor and Porter Rockwell.  I ate my Gu and drank half a bottle of RAD's water and the pretzels tasted SO GOOD!!!  She had enough drink for 20 people! :)  I think RAD is about a mile or two into the Corridor when I called her.  Had it not been so windy and freezing cold we would've waited for them.  So after RAD's telling us the directions to the next "check point" at 140th S., we left the "oasis" and moved on. 

Once on Redwood Rd, the wind was on our back, heading north and downhill felt wonderful.  We had run slightly over 10 miles, I think, at this point.  According to the map we were supposed to make couple of left turns going west then north.  However RAD instructed us to a more straight forward route going a little further north and east. Karen thinks it's just a bit longer but we wouldn't get lost and may be they would catch up sooner.  We took it easy and really enjoyed the run.

We called RAD when we reached our "check point" Maverick at the corner of 144th South and Redwood.  We took our sweet time to use the bathroom.  I think RAD said they're almost at the Corridor "oasis".  So I figured they're not that far behind.  She instructed us to run west on 144th and it would naturally turn north and call her when we reach WalMart.  We're now running on neighborhood roads, and one stretch that was torn up on both sides of the shoulders and a "road closed" side off to one side.  I felt kinda "bonkie" so when we reached mile 15, I took a gu.  Called RAD at the traffic light by WalMart and she described where she had stashed her 2nd aid station. 

We got to the dumpster behind an elementary school and found the 2nd green bag just as RAD described.  Karen and I laughed about the irony of the whole run.  We drove all the way out here to supposedly run with Rachel for her epic birthday run.  We ended up doing a RAD's treasure hunt run instead!  It was fun talking to RAD via cell along the way and still very memorable to run the last 16+ miles of her b'day route albeit ahead of them. 

At this last stop, I was too bonkie to talk, so I handed the phone to Karen and had her get the instruction from Rachel, something about going to Einstein Bagel and call her at Run8 store.  We soon reached 126th and now had may be 3-4 miles to go.  Even though it is mostly downhill, I still don't like this stretch because of the heavy traffic.  At one point, while Karen was talking to her husband on my cell phone, a car pulled out turning right did not look right and would've hit us if I had not grab Karen's arm to stop.  Knowing that the bathroom at the finish was locked, Karen and I made a stop at McDonald's to use the bathroom.  I had called RAD when we ran by Run8 and at McDonald's with no answer.  I figured she could not hear her cell with that noisy traffic. 

I thought about running back to meet them, but then it would mean running uphill on the heavy traffic road and add more mileage; so Karen and I decided to just run to the finish and call them.  Besides, Karen was supposed to be home in time to take her daughter to Gymnastic.  But I told her I wanted to wait for RAD at the finish, so she called her husband to see if he could get off work (he works at home and had a conference call) and take Abby to gymnastic instead.  Karen has a very understanding and supportive husband!

We reached the car when my Garmin read 20.7 so I ran on the parkway till it read 21.  I called RAD and they were about 2.5 mile away.  We walked around, stretched, drank, talked, and thankfully it was sunny so we weren't too cold.  RAD's friend, Sara and her coworker arrived with cupcakes and water half hour later.  We kept a constant eye at the road and finally about 5 min later saw Rachel and Kelli.  When I saw that they climbed over the bridge barrier to get on the parkway, I ran towards them and then cross the "finish" together.  Sara had her camera in hand thinking we'd stop just in front...but RAD wanted to keep going until her Garmin reads 33.33.  She had a good kick there at the end.  It was so fun to run the last little bit with her.  :)  I am SO SO SO SO PROUD of Rachel for this epic run.  I am in awe of Kelli's tremendous show of love and support to take the day off from work to run this ultra (she did 39+ for her upcoming b'day) and stay with RAD from start to finish!  What a GREAT friend! :) :) :) :O)  Kudos to them!

After a quick photo moment, hugs, smiles, congratz, and goodbyes, Karen and I drove home.  I had just enough time to take a quick shower then take Eric to see Les Miserables.  Even though hubby and I have already seen it, we wanted to see it again with Eric who sang some of those songs when he was in HS for their travel show choir.  We had a nice dinner after the movie at Texas Road House.  I love to watch my boys eats.  :) :) :)

This wonderful day began with a Stake Relief Society Conference featuring Sister Hillary Weeks.  She is witty, talented and spiritual.  We enjoyed her speaking on positive thinking, her singing and playing on the piano.  What a wonderful treat! :)

I spent most of the afternoon preparing/cooking a big Chinese dinner for my family and friends.  We have notified our out of states children that we want to announce our mission assignment via "Google Hang out" at 5pm.  Eric went to pick up grandma after skiing to bring her here.  Jeff, Jenn and baby Skylar came home soon after the arrival of our special friends, Anna and Darryl.  

It was very special to open the envelope and folder that holds the letter from the First Presidency and with joyful tears read it aloud to our family.  What follows was joyful shouts, loving embraces from our family. 

The Lord's timing is wonderful!  He knows us individually.  He loves us and wants us to succeed and have joy.  There has been many tender mercies in my and my family's lives that are evidence of the Lord's guidance and preparation to help us fulfill our potentials as well as do His work on earth.  I know He lives.  I know that He knows me.  He knows my name and my heart.  My desire is to know His will and to do it. 

Unbeknown to us, Anna, our friend whom we invited to dinner tonight, happened to have visited Sydney couple weeks ago.  It was her first ever visit to Sydney as a work assignment.  She showed us pictures she's taken on her iPhone while there.  She said that in every restaurant she ate at, she overheard Mandarin as well as Cantonese being spoken.  There is definitely a good population of Chinese in Sydney.  I am excited to serve there.  I know the Lord has marvelous plans to bring the Gospel to His children.  He is definitely hastening His work.  I am humbled and thrilled to be a part of it! :) :) :) :)

Quick and short run on the home TM before going to the airport to pick up Bryan who's returning home from his Boston and Cleveland auditions.  Took him straight to Solitude so he could ski with his cousins and join up with Eric.  It was great to see the extended family at the ski resort although Prez. and I refrained from skiing even though we hold a season ski pass.  We consciously chose to not participate in activities that we might get hurt. 

Had a wonderful evening spending time and visiting with our two sons.  They have such maturity and share with us many insights about missionary work.  It is marvelous to learn from your own children.  It is now their turn to pray for us while we labor in the field and they pursuit their "eternal family plan". 

Took Eric to the airport at 6am for his flight home to his wife and children.  It has been nice to have him here for the last few days.  What a good son, father and husband...very proud of him. :)

Went to the LC and found lots of TMs available.  1 mile warm up.  1 min on/off x 25.  (ran the first 5 cycles @ 8:34/9:31 and the remaining 20 cycles @ 7:30/9:43)  0.5 mi cool down.  7 miles in 62min. Shins tugging.  :(

Swam 12 laps.  Had to cut out the jacuzzi time to go visit teaching in the morning.

*******

Study and practice pre-MTC assignments.

Lots of congratulatory phone calls and messages.  The highlight was one from Dr. Bigelow, Bryan's viola professor.  Did Webelos Den Mtg. on Citizen activity badge.  Nearly got taken out by the deacons playing bb in the gym.  :)

4.5 easy miles on the track with Karen.  15 laps alternating between back stroke and freestyle.  Both of my tibia has been tender to touch and worrisome the last couple of weeks.  I am going to scale down my mileage and hope to survive the upcoming marathons (again).  :)

121 days till we enter the MTC.  Need to increase my daily study/practice time and begin to tackle the task of de-junking the house.  There is SO MUCH preparation that needs to be done and SO LITTLE time!  :)

Invited Karen over to workout in my humble home gym! :)  She ellipticalled and I ran easy on the TM.  Then we did the AM/PM yoga!

Then hubby and I went to the temple.  Went to the dentist for panorax, so the missionary dental papers is now completed.  Waited for over two hours at the doctor's office for my pap screening and the second HepAB shot. 

Hubby had to rush home to release a missionary while I went to Diane's daughter's bridal shower.  Then we waited up till 11pm to welcome another missionary home.  He is accompanied by his parents (his dad is our bishop).  I had a wonderful visit with his parents while hubby was doing the release interview with him.  This is by far the favorite part of hubby's calling as Stake Pres. to see these missionaries return with honor.  :)

A very frustrating morning.  We had originally planned to run to Highland but the road was covered with a layer of black ice and slippery snow.  So Karen and I drove to the LC in her husband's jeep which was slip-sliding at every stop sign.  

There was only one TM available and we checked the mileages on the ones being used, most were under a mile, meaning the treadmills will not be opened up anytime soon.  Orange singlet guy (who usually finishes his run just before tread class) had only 2+ miles and packages of gu laying on the floor which means he's there for long run.  So we decided to run couple of miles on the track then go down to the front desk just before 9am to get a tread class pass (because the staff will not give out passes until 9am).  The track was crowded and to make matter worse, one of the lanes was blocked off with "wet floor" signs.  After several laps and it was obvious that the floor was dry, we gathered up the signs.  Then after 2.25 miles we went down to get our pass at 8:55.  The girl who must be a new staff, apologetically said she has mistakenly given out the passes early and there are no more passes.  This made us SO MAD!!!!  We went back up to the cardio room to see if by chance any TM is available...no such luck.  Aaarrrgggh!!! 

We went back down stair to ask for someone with the authority to come change the flow of traffic/direction on the track.  After much complaining and waiting, we went back up to run on the track, hoping the staff would get the permission to come change the directional arrow.  After couple of laps, the staff pulled us over to inform us that the person with the authority would not give permission to change direction.  Of course, we knew that would be the case.  We have already tried and wrote Dan, who is in charge of the rec. center and doesn't ever come on Fri. with ZERO response.  This is so frustrating.  The staff made an even more absurd suggestion that we go down and run around the basketball court!  It is obvious that the staffs and those in charge are not runners!  Grrrrr!!!!

So back on the track we ran.  By now, the track is like grand central station!  At one point I bumped my left arm/shoulder into a pillar/post that was on the building outside wall as I was trying to pass on the outside lane as the inside lanes were clogged up by walkers 3-4 across and a mother veered her stroller into my lane probably attempting to pass.  I was glad that at least it is not the same arm that got the HepAB shot...so now I'm running with bilateral sore arms! :/  I should mention that I've been taken out by strollers and toddlers and nearly collided with little boys who would sprint out in front of me when they saw me coming and then only to come to a sudden stop when they ran out of steam. 

We called it quit after 64+ laps.   Got locked out of my home because I forgot to bring house key and did not know the PIN to our new garage door.  So Karen took me home where she fed me lunch! :)

Only had time to swim 20 laps.  Just as well.  The left hip flexor, right knee and both lower legs are not happy right now.

2 miles on the elliptical side by side with Karen.  20 laps alternating between freestyle and backstroke. 

Spent the afternoon at the Acura dealer trading in the 2001 Audi and bought a 2011 Corolla.  

Study and practice session 1 of the Fundamental of PMG! :)

Had to take a detour to pick up Bryan from the airport, I-15 was a parking lot. We were 30 min late so he was late to his class but I hope he likes driving the Corolla.

60 min on the recumbent bike while studying and reading. Studied and watched the PMG DVDs all afternoon...making some progress. :)

Yoga class in the evening...ahhh...so good for me! :). Did anyone see that big bright moon?! Wish I was running another moonlight midnight mighty fun marathon! :)

Got to the LC early enough to find two TMs side by side. Hubby ran 2 then went down to the pool. Karen did 45 min elliptical then went down to the pool. I ran 6 miles with 0.1 mi strides x 20, TT: 52:12, then went down to the pool to find that hubby and Karen already done swimming.

10 laps alternating freestyle and backstroke. Cyndee B. watched me swim and said I have improved since the last time she saw me swim. That's because it's been weeks since she saw me plus I was in a hurry today so swam a tiny bit faster. :)

Deep clean my car in the afternoon after setting up and decorating the cultural hall for tonight's Blue and Gold Banquet.

Ate TOO MUCH Hawaiian hay stack at the B&G! :). Then we stayed late to clean up the church. My arms are über tired! :)

AM:  3 easy on the track.  12 laps.

PM:  Bought a queen air mattress at Costco to take to David.

First tutor session with Bro. Ware from the MTC.  I really like the practice part of our tutoring session...helps us think about the person we are teaching and feel the inspiration.

Evening:  Packed for our Phoenix trip.

Picked up Karen at 7am for our long drive to Phoenix.  We took the alternate route because SR89 north of Paige was closed.  Got off I-15 onto 89A at Togaville > Apple Valley > Fredonia > Jacob Lake > Flagstaff > Phoenix.  Total time on the road was 11+ hours. 

We had a nice drive under clear blue sky, very little traffic, a very scenic route through sandstone red cliffs, pine forest, and national parks, wonderful visit with Karen and listened to the 2012 New Mission President Seminar CDs. 

Called David when we're about an hour outside of Phoenix.  Luckily he was just getting off work (clinical) from the hospital and met us at TGIF on Happy Valley Dr., northeast of Phoenix for dinner.  It was so good to see him. 

Then we took the 101 loop to packet pick up.  Got there with half hour before they close.  Checked in the hotel around 9pm.  We were SO tired!!!  Took a Tylenol PM and set the alarm for 3:30am.

Woke up 2-3 times thru the night and finally got up at 3:15, showered, dressed, drank EmergenC and ate a banana.  Karen had a restless night as well.  Hubby gave me a blessing in which it says I would be able to push through the pain that would come.  (Wait!!!  PAIN?!?!  Push through?!  This is supposed to be a long run with hundreds of friends, not a race!!!  Pain should not be in the equation! :)  We confidently told hubby, Gary and David we will finish under 5 hours! :)

At 4:15 we went to pick up the breakfast-to-go-bag (orange, energy bar, danish) provided by the hotel for marathoners and rode the hotel shuttle van to the bus pick up.  I ate the danish with cup of oj in the van.  Ate the Greek yogurt I brought on the bus ride.  My body was still under the influence of the TylenolPM...so groggy!  Karen and I asked ourselves why do we do this, why do we not just do the Half.. we'd finish way before lunch, go swimming, shopping, movie and night out on the town!  Haha!!! :)

Got to the start around 5ish.  Rhett spotted me as we walked past him and his friend, Jeff sitting by a kerosene heater.  SO SO SO happy to see him!  :)  We chatted a little bit and got separated at the pop lines.  I kept an eye out for BeMo and AmyG but never saw them. :(

All the snacking on the drive yesterday, lunch and humongous dinner last night came back to bite me.  Karen and I made 3 pop trips before the race started in pitch darkness.  They had fireworks display (like a 4th of July celebration) after the National Anthem then everyone walked to the start.  I shed my 2 light fleece, long pants for the drop bag; and kept the gloves and arm warmers (that were part of the race swag) as the temp was a bit cool, probably high 40s.

The race started on time at 6:30.  We crossed the mat about 2 min. after gun time marching with the 4:40 pace group.  The first 4 miles were downhill from Usery Mountain on newly paved road in the dark under a bright half moon.  Caught up with the 4:25 pace group.  The pacer was on our bus...he was not very talkative...other than announcing his time and pace just before every aid station...he did not speak one word.  I had fun talking to fellow runners.  Mile 6 was uphill in a very nice neighborhood.  The hill didn't seem to be as bad as what the elevation chart shows.  We kept a steady effort.  The spectators were enthusiastic and fun...told us it's all downhill to the finish!  :) 

I have never seen such majestic cactus up close.  They have got to be 100 years old.  It is awesome!  I love the scenery and beautiful homes.  Took a gu at mile 7.  We walked through every aid station, stopped and waited for the pop at mile 11.  After each aid station, we'd slowly caught back up with the 4:25 pace group.  Each time we caught up to them, we'd stir up the conversations again.  The pacer would say:"There you are!  Wonder where you've been!"  We made friends with Terry (the smooth glider gal),  Judy (the foxy Teena-look-alike), Mike (the steady trotter), 4 girls/gals wearing identical shirts with the message:  Some wish...some want....some MAKE it happen,  a lady I dubbed Ms Punctual (her shirt says ON TIME), a guy with the shirt (No Speed Limit), several sets of sisters wearing identical outfits,  Mr. India, and finally Mr. Aussie (the Marathon Man) who was wearing a shiny blue unitard with a red cape and a "M" shaped like "Super Man" logo in front.  The middle of the pack was a lively bunch.  :)

I think we got to the half in 2:13 and everything felt great.  The course had a lot of turns so sometimes we'd get a nice welcomed breeze because it was getting really warm with the sun beating down on us and NO shade.  Running past a grove of orange trees was lovely.  The spectators were awesome...the same groups of families cheering over and over including Choo Baka and Princess Leah...girls with pomp pomps...mothers with pots and pans...lots of great posters.  I also saw two bottles on the road discarded by elite runners and a blue sponge (wondering if they belonged to Jake Krong). 

We were able to stay with the 4:25 group (they started 2 min before us) and were on target for 4:30 until mile 20.  At the mile 19 aid station I took a Gu, 2 salt caps and 2 ibuprofen.  My shins started to cramp.  It was getting really hot, my wheels were falling off.  Karen was so good to me.  She patiently, cheerfully, kindly stayed with me every step of the way, talked to me with positive stories and encouragement.  We even sang "Called to Serve".  Her legs would threaten to cramp when we slowed too much so she'd say:  "just keep moving, just keep moving."  I felt like I was running, but really just shuffling in pain with every step.  I did not look at my Garmin except when it beeped at the mile lap.  Karen encouraged me to keep moving:  "We can walk when we get to the aid station.  Larry will be there at the finish.  David will be so proud of you.  The missionaries have to learn to get along with their companions...but you get to cuddle with yours every night! :) :) :)"  What a great friend, good influence and blessing Karen is in my life! :) She refused to leave me.  She stopped to use the pop at mile 24 and told me to keep going and she quickly caught back up to me.  The last mile was slight downhill which was great and we saw hubby at the corner with half mile to go.  He ran us in telling us all the wonderful food waiting for us at the finish.

Karen and I felt like a million bucks with the spectators cheering loudly on both sides of the shute and the announcer said our names as we ran cross the finish together. :) :) :)

They have so much food provided by vendors at the finish, chicken, fish taco, protein drinks, otter pops, breads and baked goods, energy drinks, chips, fruits, snack cups.  There's a huge tent with PT, people to wrap your legs in ice bags and ice water kiddy pool to take care of your legs and feet plus a massage tent.  Outside of the recovery area are food vendors who offer free chicken, fish taco, hot dogs, pop corn for spectators.  Needless to say we did not need to go to restaurant for lunch. 

We heard and saw MelodyJ (Runningafterbabies) went up to the podium as 2nd place overall women as we headed to the clothing retrieval.  I clapped and cheered but I don't think she heard me! :)

I think this is a very well run/organized inaugural marathon, great support, race shirt, swag, medal, food, finish line festivities, etc.  The only thing I did not like about the course is the many turns and scary crossings at major road intersections.  The police did a wonderful job controlling the traffic which was rather heavy on a busy Saturday morning in these Mesa roads with many retail stores and restaurants.  The motorists were very patient however but I heard there was still a fender bender accident.  Finishing temp was in the 80s (my car said 86 when driving back to the hotel) and with no shade to be found, it was a scorcher.  Other than that, I had a lot of fun! 

After showering, we took an "ice bath" in the hotel's outdoor pool (the heater was broken so the water was rather cold).  Then we laid out under the AZ sun for some VitD therapy.  There were quite a few guys from UT at the pool and we had a nice visit! :)

Side note:  my daughter was running the Woodlands Half Marathon the same morning in Texas and we were thinking about her during our first half.  She finished in 1:51 for her first half marathon!  I am so proud of her!  :) :) :)

Nice long drive home from Mesa.  Stopped in Flagstaff to attend the 10am sacrament meeting of the YSA Ward right off the freeway by Northern Arizona U.  Enjoyed very much the spirit of the meeting.

got to drive thru the National Parks to Jacob Lake to Fredonia.  Karen drove from there to Beaver then hubby drove the rest of the way.  Very scenic and enjoyable Sunday drive listening to he 2012 New MP Seminar CDs all afternoon.  :)

 6 weeks to Boston, 109 days to MTC!!! :) :) :)

Aftermath of Phoenix Marathon...stiff sore quads...evidence of zero downhill training this winter.  So NO running.  Swam 23 laps freestyle and backstroke.

Went to eye doctor.  He sold me the most expensive pair of glasses in the store! :)

Legs still a little sore.  Walked 2 miles on the track then swam 21 laps freestyle/backstroke and lingered longer in the jacuzzi.

Studied, read, watched videos from our personal pre-seminar web account.  We are now 19% complete! :)

Got a chirpy text from Karen inviting me and Wendy to run outside with her.  Karen ran!!!  She had NO soreness!!!  Her heel is better!!!  WOW!!!  I jogged/walked/whined the whole way...but I think Wendy didn't mind.  It's been a LONG time since the three of us ran together.  It was a beautiful day, cold (30s) but partly sunny!  :)

Poor hubby had to be on clear liquid diet and prep for tomorrow's colonoscopy.

Babysat Skylar in the afternoon.

No time to exercise today.  Took hubby to AF Hospital for the procedure.  Sad thing is he has to go back again sometime after the doctors consult and give us instructions...o well.  While waiting in the hospital, I read chapter 3 of PMG and all the pamphlets.

Babysat Skylar so her parents can go out to celebrate her mommy's birthday.  

So so so tired when Karen texted me this morning.  I would've stayed in bed if she hadn't invited me to run with her to Mtn. Ridge JrH.  She even brought a Gu for me to take when we reached the Jr High.  Everything was sluggish, my breathing, my legs.  I felt like a big glob of lard pretending to run! :)  Karen, on the other hand, is so positive, patient, kind and enthusiastic. 

Met with our tutor for session 2.  We got to teach a 20 min lesson (the Restoration) to him.  I really like these tutoring sessions, very helpful.  I am learning so much.  We are now 29% complete with our pre-Seminar MTC preparation.

Tonight we are speaking in our Stake's mini MTC fireside and conference which is held for the youth (juniors and seniors in HS) tonight and tomorrow to help them have a small MTC experience. 

Got my new eyeglasses...now I can see/read better! :)

FIVE WEEKS TO BOSTON!!! 103  102 days to MTC!!! :) Hubby has a sore and swollen ankle, same occurrence after a hard moguls day, or bball with the boys, or push too much on a run! So no exercise and lots of ice/heat therapy and elevation today. It usually takes about a week or two for it to heal. Karen's PF is bothering her. So strike two :(. But luckily Wendy didn't mind running a slow easy 6 miler with me on the west portion of the Murdock Canal Trail :) :) :)

We attended Session 5 of the pre-seminar training at the Provo MTC with other newly called mission presidents and wives.  We learned that:  To effectively accomplish their purpose, missionaries need to use wisely the sacred resource of time given them by their Heavenly Father.  We teach and help them clearly understand the process of goal setting, planning and reporting.  Setting goals can help them exercise faith and focus their efforts.  

Easy conversational run with Karen and Wendy on Murdock Canal Trail.  Gorgeous day!

Wendy, Diane and I drove to Magna to take our 85 yo former neighbor/friend to lunch to celebrate her b'day.  What a great lady she is! :)  We drove home on the road that was part of the SoJo Marathon just outside of Copperton to Heriman and onto Mtn View Corridor.  I can't believe I ran on those roads! :)  

Had a most wonderful, special conference/meeting via conference call with Elder Zwick.  There were 8 of us new mission presidents/couples from as far as Riyah Saudi Arabia, Anchorage Alaska, Australia, New Zealand on the same conference call.  The marvel of modern day technology.  We were well fed spiritually.  We could feel the great love and charity Elder Zwick has for each of us and what great witness and power he radiated (even through the telephone)  Cannot wait to meet with him in person in June.  Our IFR, Elder Bertasso also offered many words of comfort and reassurance.  We feel so very grateful and humbled to be part of this marvelous work in this historical time of the Church.  :) 

Ran with Karen (Sky) down 3rd West, up on rail trail, up on Murdock Canal trail.  It was a beautiful day aside from the smell of open field burns; sure sign that Spring is here...oh, and skunk too, p-ew! :) 

Swam 21 laps.

Temple.  Lunch at temple cafeteria.  :)

Study and prep.  Tutoring session #3.  :)

Numerous phone calls.

Movie and dinner date.  :)

A wonderful wonderful beautiful run on the JRP with Karen, Toby and Collette.  I just love running with them, awesome friends, great chats, gorgeous weather.  Saw migrating ducks, Canadian geese, baby calves with their mother-cows and lots of runners, cyclists, fishermen and hunters!  :) :) :) 

After Toby and Collete left, Karen and I ran 2 more miles up north.  I had forgotten how hilly the north portion was plus a strong head wind; but it was nice when we turned around back to the car.  I had not worn my Garmin since PHX marathon two weeks ago.  I wore it today just for mileage reference.  I did not look at it once wearing it under my jacket's sleeves.  I finally looked at it at the end of the run.  It showed I've run 1.25 feet in 29:19.  How could that be?  What a silly watch!  :)  Thank goodness Karen kept track with hers. I've decided that I don't need to run with Garmin or watch any more as long as I have a warm body friend to run with!  :)

Our mission photo and bio is published in today's Church News!  I think I did a pretty good job taking the photo with my own camera's self-timer device in the privacy of our home and only on 4th take!  :)

http://www.ldschurchnews.com/articles/63324/New-mission-presidents.html

Prez. and I got to speak to the youth tonight in our ward's bishop fireside.  We literally watch these kids grow up.  It is so wonderful to see the goodness shine through their countenance.  They are truly a bright and wonderful generation, so prepared for "a time such as this".  :) :) :) 

Felt a bit sluggish and tight when I woke up this morning...wasn't sure if I wanted to run so I texted my girl friends to see if they're up for a run.  I was surprised that they were both enthusiastic.  Without prior plan, we turned it into a serendipity run.  Sky was cloudy but calm and slightly on the cold side. :)

We ran up on the Murdock canal trail via Center St. then eastward into Highland.  There were trail signs showing mileage and direction to various parks and trail heads at most intersections.   The trail "dead end" on the east side of the tunnel under the Alpine Hwy so we followed the sign pointing to the direction for Provo River Parkway and ran on the road northward.  We didn't turn east at the next sign, because we did not carry water and were getting very thirsty.  So we continued north till we hit the road to Mtn. Ridge Jr. High where we went inside to drink from the drinking fountain.  We ran on the Highland trail and connect back onto the Murdock Canal Trail.  I had to walk up the steepest portion.  We also stopped a couple times for Wendy to "put up" her feet.  This is her longest run since our 6.5 miler last week. 

I was starving and thirsty when I got home! :) 

Hubby and I did companion study on chapter 5 of PMG!  I am loving our study time together! :) :) :)

AM:  Easy run with Karen and Wendy on a very nice morning.  Lower shins complained a little.

Swam 11 laps (freestyle and backstroke).

Evening:  Yoga class.  Ahhh!!! :)

Another run on canal trail west with Wendy, Karen (Sky).  It sure has taken me a long time to warm up these days...but I suppressed the urge to walk on the uphill.  :)

Ordered a new pair of shoes, Inspire 9!  :)

VT in the morning!  bazillion stuff in the afternoon!  Chamber Orchestra concert in the evening/night!  Gave hubby his first Enoxaparin after taking his INR.  Crazy busy day = no exercise! :/

Got up at 4am before the alarm.  Karen came to pick me up at 5:15 to meet Toby who has already run 8 miles earlier (what awesome inspiring dedication!!!), changed and was waiting for us.  :)  Collette joined us at the corner of the street...us giggling foursome on the dark streets of AF! :)  Hope I didn't wake Toby's neighbors with my enthusiasm! :)

My fingers were frozen holding a flash light in one hand and a hand-held bottle in the other.  Could hardly keep up with the girls especially up temple hill! :)  Very grateful that they were so kind to stay close because I had no headlamp and was scared to death of tripping!  We were extremely grateful for NO wind! :) :) :)

We ran west on 700N > 500E > Art Dyke Park and joined up on the Murdock Canal Trail > east thru Highland, Cedar Hills, Pleasant Grove and Manila.  Very little traffic on the road and we were alone in complete darkness on the trail...peaceful.  We ran under the tunnel access onto Canyon Rd then west on 700N (AF) to east side of Temple hill.  By then the morning traffic got heavy with dawn breaking and we had to run single-file. 

Toby's hubby was waiting with a smile as we finished our 7.5 mile loop.  He offered to let us shower, eat, nap! :)  I took a rain check on the nap and shower but did eat a banana and used the bathroom, quickly said goodbye to Toby then headed out for more miles. 

Karen and I decided to run further south and west of the previous loop to add more miles and avoid the steep Temple hills.  We ran south onto 300N > 400 E > 700N to west of Fox Hollow Golf Course.  That was the only bad part of the whole run because we encountered very very heavy high school traffic and my fingers were still frozen.  :)

My daughter called as we were running north on the Alpine Hwy and east to Highland Glen Park.  We talked during those couple miles so I was jogging very slowly.  My fingers were very frozen so we said goodbye, then I took a Gu.  We got onto the Murdock Canal Trail which we ran earlier in the dark.  It's nice to be able to see the trail and recognize where we're at.

Karen was calculating the distance/mileage to determin where we should run or turn around to get back to Toby's (where her car is parked) to make a total of 18 miles.  I had this brilliant idea that instead of turning around we should keep going on the Murdock Canal Trail past where the 4 of us had gotten off earlier at Canyon Rd. and continue on the bench above Manila.  Boy, were we glad we did!  Other than the little section off of the tunnel from Canyon Rd, we discovered the entire trail is paved!!!!  We ran south on the canal trail overlooking the valley and Utah Lake.  It was beautiful!!!!  If we had more time, we would've kept going (the trail eventually meets up at the mouth of Provo Canyon, Provo River Trail). 

We hiked down through an open area of the hillside onto the east end of Murdock Dr which turns into 1800N.  We ran straight west on 1800N and soon hit school traffic by Manilla Elementary.  We could see the temple just slightly northwest which means we're not that far from our "finish".  My legs were trashed but OH SO HAPPY!!!  Had not planned on 19.5 miles but would've gone for 20 if we had time.  We stretched for 5 or so min. then drove home in a jiff. 

So grateful for Toby inviting us to run early.  A blowing snow storm hit us just as we reached SR 92 driving home.  What a gift this run was with perfect weather and awesome company!  THANK YOU Toby and Karen!!!

For this run I ate 2 bananas, 1 gu and 32 oz of fluid.  Not bad considered all I had was a kid's meal at Chic-Fil-A at 4pm the day before! :)

Home in time to give hubby the Enoxaparin. Quick shower then shopping at Costco.  Taught lesson 5 of fundamental of PMG to our tutor.   Then had a wonderful dinner party with our friends!  :) :) :)

Swam 13 laps.  Visited grandma.  Shopped for mission clothes. :}

Right hip has a little niggle every time I get up from a sitting position.  Shins are a little sore.  Tapering (for Boston) should help.  :)

Got hubby settled in the hospital, went home and got in a run at noon on the Murdock Canal Trail.  Saw ScottK on his lunch run when I stopped to shed my jacket.  Very cool to meet the famous speedy ScottK in person! :) 

Felt really good about this impromptu solo run, AP: 9:12.  2 miles wu, 5 miles tempo (8:46, 9:20[incline], 8:47, 8:33, 8:25) 0.25 mile cd.  I have not done any tempo run for over a year.  The last time I ran anything in the 8s was at Spectrum 10K last year (6 weeks post stress fracture).  I have forgotten how good it feels to run faster.   I know most people would consider these slow jogging pace.  But, for me, it's a bit out of my comfort zone.  Indeed each run is a gift and I'm so very grateful for this!  :) :) :)

Happy Monday all!!!

PM: Test out new shoes on the mill...then rushed back to hospital.

Rough night. Tough morning. Made it back home for noon run with Karen and Wendy on the Murdock Canal trail.

At the hospital from 7am - 10:30pm. Lots of watch and wait, some studying done!

Packed running shoes and clothes in hopes of sneaking in a run near the hospital....didn't happen! But, finally convinced the doctors that we can do the wait and watch at home just as well. So at 4pm when the last drop of Heparin and NS went in, we DC the IV and was discharged to go home. Funniest thing happen while walking down the hall and out to the car! :)

SO SO SO HAPPY to be home! Gave hubby the Enoxparin at 6pm.

I was SO looking forward to this run. Got up early and gave hubby the Enoxaparin at 5:55 am then drove away under a bright moon. Met Toby, Collette and RAD at 6:15 on the JRP. :) I was super sluggish, tired and the breathing was labored (allergy?). So grateful to have these wonderful girls to run with, they sure made the miles flew by! I really treasure these runs with such great friends! :)

We ran south to the lake, gu'd and pit stop then turned around. What a beautiful day, a bit chilly the first 10K but warmed up nicely by the time we reached the car at mile 11 where we said goodbye to RAD and Collette. Called hubby to make sure everything's alright. Ran with Toby northward for 4 more. Bid Toby goodbye back at the car and she ran south by herself with her tunes for few more miles. THANK YOU Toby, RAD and Collette for a beautiful run! :)

Wendy and I were so so so lucky to get in a run this morming! That was the best part of the day...things aren't going too well right now...but this shall pass and I must stay positive and hopeful.

Crazy day...NO running!  First off, staying overnight last night at hubby's bedside in the hospital (wearing Levis in a recliner) = ZERO sleep!!!  But I am not complaining because I really needed to be there.  After multiple veni-punctures, NPO after midnight, 3 units of RBCs, the hct creeped back from 20 up to 23.5.  Hubby kindly refused to stay in the hospital any longer.  So after I gave him his Enoxaparin (26 hr. since the last dose, which probably helped slow the bleeding) we were discharged at 9:30 am. 

Made a mad dash home to give him a quick hair cut, showered and drove up to JSMB for the luncheon meeting with the Area Presidency and their wives along with four other new mission presidents and their wives.  It was a wonderful meeting!  :)  SO SO SO GLAD we were able to do this.  :) :) :)

Then we drove back to the hospital lab for another CBC draw.  Hubby was exhausted.  While he napped, I did laundry, cleaned house, made a juicy steak dinner for him.  After dinner, he left to do his stake prez. interviews, setting apart three missionaries, etc.  I cannot believe how tough and dedicated he is to do all that he does in such an anemic and weakened state.

I desperately needed something to help me relax so I went to Yoga.  The regular Yoga instructor is gone for Spring Break, the substitute was a tad harder. 

Hubby didn't feel good about spacing the Enoxaparin for another 24 hrs. so he had me give him another injection just before midnight which means it will be that late tomorrow night and the next night and so on until the INR reaches 2.4

Walked a mile with hubby.  The walk made him feels better even though he's still quite pale and anemic.  It's been 8 days post procedure so I think he is getting better.

Ran by myself after bidding hubby goodbye (he walked another mile home) on the Murdock Canal Trail.  Lots of families out with bikes, scooters!  Such a beautiful day!  My Garmin batteries died at 1.5 mile from home.  AP: 9:27 

Today is Eric's 32nd birthday!  Felt bad that I did not send him anything...no time to shop the last 10 days due to being "prisoner" of the hospital. 

Company coming so spend the day cleaning and shopping.

Met our guests in Provo then went to Hailey's dorm to watch her open her mission call.  There were at least 80 of her college friends gathering for the occasion.  A world map was set up for those to write down their guesses of where she'd go.  Hubby and I of course guessed she'd be called to our mission, Australia Sydney South.  Guess what, we were close...she's called to serve in Australia Melborne, a mere 350 miles away! :) :) :)

We did not get home until 11pm after the celebration and visiting with our guests.

Slept in.  Hubby and I made a yummy breakfast for our guests.  Wendy texted me to see if I wanted to run since she had a late start too.  We didn't go very far when we ran into Karin and Heather and visited with them a bit.  By the time I got home, it was nearly noon, just in time to give hubby his Enoxaparin.  He is feeling much better.  Went shopping for shoes...comfy walking dressy missionary shoes! :)  A nice young man, Chris C., who has served in our mission a little over a year ago, was our sales person.  He helped me so much! :)

Our guests treated us to dinner at J-Dawg.  I'm not a hot-dog eater, but the J-Dawg sauce is DElish!!!  Then we went to Bryan's final concert with the Philharmonic Orchestra.  What a fabulous performance.  Kory conducted the "Rite of Spring" by Igor Stravinsky, a very difficult dynamic Russian ballet music written 100 years ago (very Pagan and politically contravercial of that era) BY MEMORY!!! WOW!!!  It was flawless!!!  No one played any "rest" notes,  everyone executed their parts perfectly.  It was both awesome to listen and to watch.  The audience were riveted garnering a standing ovation at the conclusion! :) :) :)  Bryan had so many friends coming up to hug and wish him well.  :) 

Needless to say, another LATE LATE NIGHT for us! :)

Got up early to go to the temple.  Everyone was tired after lunch, so they took a nap while I got caught up on emails and such.  Then we went shopping for dresses, suits.  We're so excited for General Conference Weekend.  :) :) :)

This announcement was made this morning:  http://www.mormonnewsroom.org/article/church-adjusts-mission-organization-implement-mission-leadership-council

Ran with Wendy and John (Zeus) on the Murdock Canal Trail east to Highland Glen Park.  Lots of runners, cyclists, families out enjoying the trail.  Perfect weather with cool temp and overcast sky, calm.  Made it home before General Conference started.  I should note that a sister said the opening prayer in the 1st session and Pres. Monson announced two new temples to be built!  :)  LOVED every single one of the talks!!!  :) :) :)

Today is my baby's birthday, 21, guess he's not a baby any more!!!  :)  He will be home in 9 weeks.  We will enter the MTC in 11 weeks!  Time's a flying!!!  :)

I am sitting here at the airport waiting to board a redeye flight to Boston, so thought I'd catch up on posting a bit. It's been a crazy busy week.

So, I think Monday was when father winter came back, right? I think it was windy and rainy and cold. Anyway, ran an hour on the track at the LC, Karen joined me 15 min.later. Then I went down to the pool where hubby was waiting. Swam 21 laps.

Still a cold rainy and windy. So we ran on the track at the LC again!

Finally Spring returns but still a tad cold. Ran east on the Murdock canal trail with Wendy and Karen (Sky) wearing long sleeve top and Capris. Workers were installing picnic table/bench at the trail rest stop where drinking fountain was already installed. I heard that the "grand opening" of the MC Trail is scheduled in May. guess I won't get to run the entire trail until I return from my mission in 3 years. Lots can change in 3 years! :)

Ran a quick 3 on the track then swam 25 laps.

Packed my bags before heading down to the MTC for our 6th and final training session.

Wendy was so nice to drop us off at the airport so so late at night. Our flight departs in an hour at 12:55am.

I have been so busy that this is the first time I get to sit down, put my feet up and catch up on my week's post. have not thought about how I am going to run Boston. My thoughts are occupied with the excitement and anticipation of seeing my two oldest children. I am excited to spend the weekend in Boston with them as well as with some of my running buddies, RAD, Lowell, TJ, MarcieN, MarcE and Ronnie. This is my 6th time running Boston and will be a few years before returning to run Boston again so I hope to have fun and enjoy the whole thing! :)

ALL IN FOR BOSTON!!! :) :) :)

Got here at 10 this morning after flying thru the night. Walking in the rain and wind from the Tstation to our hotel with a suitcase and huge duffle bag, on the bridge with traffic across the river to Tudor Wharf was quite an adventrure! We were soaked, cold and tired. But it was lovely to see Lowell and TJ whose room us just across the hall from ours! We should've taken Lowell's advise and taken a taxi instead! The four of us then headed over to the Hynes Convention Center for a bowl of clam chowder and roast beef sandwitch. We got to the Expo when it barely opens! It's already crowded! We gathered up freebies, ate samples, saw Kathryn Switzer, the famous first woman Boston athlete who nearly got pulled off mid race because BAA didn't allow female participant! Now there seem to be twice as many women than men crowding the Expo buying up loads off Boston official wardrobes! :). They had no sz xs women jacket this year, or completely sold out within the first hour! So I just bought a pair of capris. Lowell and TJ bought a gazillion stuff! We went to Legal Seafood at 5 to beat the crowd! hubby and I shared a lobster and steak dinner. Lowell had king crab legs and TJ had fish and chips. The Rick and Dick Hoyt team were at the table next to us! When we left the restaurant there was a long line of people waiting! So glad hubby was smart to get there early! We walked around Charlestown, grabbed desserts. Eric drove in at around 11pm. We hit the sack at 1am. Man, was I tired with no sleep for over 24 hours! Hope the rain and cold wind goes away tomorrow! :)

Boston experience is not complete without a trip to Fenway Park! :)

Hubby and I went to the Cambridge 1st Ward sacrament at 9am.  What a wonderfully diverse ward with sweet and spiritual testimony sharing.  After church, we went back to the hotel to change and then met up with the family, RAD, Lowell and TJ and saw some friends at the Old South Church for the Blessing of the Athletes.

SO Glad I got this picture at the finish line the day before.  Little did I know!

Carb loading at Filipo. Mama Lulu made sure we had plenty of pasta, bread and salad! :)

After dinner, we walked to King's Bakery, long lines there, to grab the best Italian pastries in town.  We had a party at the hotel lobby lounge eating our desserts, watching recap of the Masters, laughing and making quite a rackus.  :)  

We carried the party back up in our room.  It was well past 11pm when I finally hit the sack after setting out my race clothes and gear.  Almost forgot that there's a race tomorrow...simply too happy to be here in Boston with my sweetheart and our two oldest children.  Tomorrow we will celebrate with the most yummiest post race seafood dinner.

Finally today (May 1) I find the time to sit and type up a report.  It's been over 2 weeks since that eventful day.  My emotions were too raw, too much to process at the time. 

This 117th Boston was to be my 6th and last Boston for the next 3-4 years because I will temporarily retire from marathon running to serve a 3 year mission for my church.  Of all the marathons I've run, Boston is my husband's favorite.  He loves Boston, the seafood, the people, family and friends.  My son, Eric, a podiatrist in his 2nd year of residency at the Cleveland Clinic volunteered again as a medic; and like last year he was assigned to the finish-line med tent.  My daughter, Larissa, and her friends, Beth & Julianne, decided at the last min to fly into Boston (after running their Blue Belle 10K in TX on Sat.) to cheer me and play tourists here and New York.  I was so looking forward to seeing them and also going to visit Eric's family (my grand babies) the very next morning after the race.  I seriously had not given much thought to the race.  I just wanted to enjoy the whole run and soak in all the things that make Boston Marathon SO special, wonderful, magnificent, to savor the time spent with my family and friends.

Woke up still sleepy but feeling pretty good on race morning.  After hubby gave me a blessing of a safe and joyful run, I went down to breakfast as planned at 6:15.  A few min. later RAD came down.  She is SO ready to have a race of her life, her very first Boston.  Am so excited for her. :) Then came TJ and this was to be his last and final marathon.  It made me kinda sad to think that he won't be running any more marathons with me.  Finally Lowell came down with only his running clothes on, no jacket, no bag...he was locked out of his room...silly boy!  So, RAD and I decided to leave the boys and walked to catch the T to Boston Common for the bus ride to Hopkinton.

I have never seen such long lines, like a maze, RAD and I could not find the end of any of the lines.  Finally we merged into one with friendly people to chat with.  I think our bus driver was slow because I do not remember the ride being this long and we were dropped off way at the back of the school.  But it was fun visiting with our seat mates, Martin, the Irish gentleman and a first time Boston girl.

As a 5 yr Boston veteran, I knew where the shortest pop line is.  It always brings back memory of when Teena and I were there years ago and accidentally opened a "vacant" door only to find a surprised occupant inside! Hehe! :)  With one pop visit out of the way, we made our way to the designated meeting place, the "It All Starts Here" sign.  Amidst the huge huge crowd in this nosy excited athlete village, we stood and paused for a moment of silence for the victims of Sandy Hooks. 

Donna Pizza is a cousin of Karen Beeston (my running partner and friend back home).  I hardly remember what she looks like; but she found us.  So, after RAD met up with Paul, we bid them good luck and goodbye, Donna and I decided to stay together since we're in the same corral and wave. 

Donna and I sat waiting at the village.  We wish KarenB was with us.  We missed her.

We stood in the slowest pop line ever, seriously for 45 min. we did not move.  Finally when the MC announced, "Wave 3 people need to make their way to baggage drop off now!",  everyone scattered, there was no wait, no line, no toilet papers!  :)  With the crowd gone, I saw Lowell, TJ and Lowell's niece Karen Tree a few feet away shedding their clothes.  I took Donna over there to introduce them.  (KarenT is Lowell's niece.  I ran with her and Lowell last year 'till mile 17 on that historically hot day).  Then after a few more kodak moments, we finally left the deserted village to drop off our bags. 

KarenT, me, DonnaP on our way to drop off our bags and the happy march to our corral.

The five of us started together and did a pretty good job keeping track of each other.  With Lowell's silly shinanagan, we soon lost him and TJ around mile 5.  I originally wanted to stay with TJ, this being his last marathon, especially with his heart issue; but soon found myself having so much fun with Donna and Karen that I just let them dictate the pace.  I did not look at the watch once, only the clock as we crossed each timing mat.

Donna and Karen are so much fun! :)

We lost Donna around mile 12.  So it's just Karen and I, looking for her family who were cheering along the route.  We'd stop and take pictures just like last year.

At Wellsley, I ran along the barricade, slapping hands with the girls, reading their clever signs, feeding off their incredible energy.  At the end of the "kiss alley".  I saw a little boy about 8 yrs of age standing stalwartly next to his parent, I went over and kissed him on his forehead.  I could hear: "Oh, how cute!" uttered from behind. :)

What a perfect day, cool temp, partly sunny sky, slight breeze which turned into a bit of cold headwind during the last half.  I was having a great run.  We took a swig of gatorade/water at every station.  I gu'd at mile 7, 13, 18 and 23.  Everything was clicking along smoothly.  I didn't walk one single step on the Newton hills.  In fact, I lost track of Heartbreak until I saw the big 'ole balloon arch announcing Heartbreak Is Over! :)  I did stop a couple times to take pictures for Karen and her family and jogged to wait for her when she stopped to use the pop.  I did not care for time or pace! :)  We leap-frog'd with a guy dressed as a chicken.  When people cheered:  "GO! chicken!"  I'd yelled back:  "He's a rooster!" We finally passed him for good after Heartbreak.

Everything felt great.  No pain, not even a hint of cramp.  Having a TERRIFIC run! :)

The backside of Heartbreak is my favorite with the crazy energetic Boston College kids screaming their heads off.  One kid slapped my hand so hard that it'd about yank my arm off the socket.  My hand hurts from all the high-fiving!! :) The last 5K was AWESOME, I was feeding off the energy of the spectators.  Total strangers cheering SO LOUDLY with enthusiasm and electrifying energy, reaching out to touch you, like you're a rock star. I LOVE BOSTON!!!! :)

Running strong and happy with a mile to go! :)

Singing Called To Serve Him in my head, I was running so happy and thought to myself:  "I'm gonna to see my hubby and daughter in 5 minutes.  They'll be so surprised.  I may go over to give hubby a kiss and my daughter and friends a hug!"  Such happy thoughts, positive tunes and springy strides all came to a halt at Mass. Ave.

About a half mile after we passed the Citgo Sign, Karen ran up to me and said her husband just called and told her to not finish the race, there's some kind of explosion at the finish.  I looked around me, the police did not show any sign of concern, the National Guards marching along in perfect strides, everyone is cheering.  I said to her:  "It's probably some kind of Patriot Day (or heaven forbid, tax day) celebration or re-enactment of the Revolution War.  This is Boston, baby!  I'm having the best run ever and nothing is going to stop me from finishing.  In less than 5 min. I'll cross the finish.

Then suddenly motorcycle cops sped by, and wham! with less than half mile to go, we were stopped!  There was no sign of panic, just confused look, no explanation, just following orders.  We just stood there not knowing what to do.  I did not stop my watch thinking the cops will re-route us any minute.   Karen confirmed that there was an explosion near the finish.  I immediately pulled out my cell phone to call hubby, Eric, Larissa only to get busy signals.  I started to cry worrying about their safety and wanting to go to them.  A kind Japanese lady next to me comforted me saying,  "We'll be alright.  It's safer to stay together.  We can keep each other warm by staying close."  Karen noticed her Altra shoes and asked how she likes them.  We started to talk about our families.  She's from NY and has a daughter in her 3rd yr of med. school, same age as my 3rd yr med school son, David.  Then her husband and daughter appeared out of nowhere and they started hugging and crying.  The sight of her reuniting with her family intensified my worry and need to find my family.  I told Karen we should just get out and go to the finish, we're SO CLOSE, my Garmin read 25.85 miles.  We're right there, right on Hereford, then left onto Boylston where you'd find yourself in "runners heaven". As runners, we have only one thing in mind, cross the finish!!!

We sneaked out between the barricades crossing Mass. Ave. but the police stopped us from going onto Boylston.  Having stood for I don't know how long, may be 10 or 15 min., our legs froze up, we could not run, so we just walked down Commonwealth (which parallels Boylston) eastward on the tree-lined dirt median.  I was freezing, calling on my cell phone continuously.  Karen's cell phone died so she used mine.  We could only receive text messages but could not reply nor get any calls thru.  Then suddenly, a call came in from Ann Takasaki.  She's my sister-in-law's sis-in-law from Spanish Fork.  She wanted to know if I finished and if I was ok.  I asked her to call my husband for and let him know I was ok.  Then as quickly as her call came, it was intercepted with numerous text messages all expressing their concerns for me. 

We finally reached Boston Commons at Arlington where we could turn south.  As we crossed Boylston, I could see the clothing bag buses lined along the streets.  But there were barricades and cops not letting us through.  The cop said the bags would be put in boxes and taken to Boston Commons.  I saw no such activity at Boston Commons; in fact, the whole place seemed rather deserted.  Karen wanted to go back to her hotel, Westin at Copley Square.  So I told her I'd take her there and may be use the bathroom and the phone there to call my family.

We didn't make it to Copley Square at all as there were cops blocking every which way.  We finally went inside a dark and empty restaurant, the Melting Pot, to use the restroom.  This restaurant is across the street from the Paul Revere Hotel (previously the Radisson) where we used to stay for the last 4 years.  I felt prompted to walk down Stuart where the family reunion is located (with the first letter of the family name alphabetically posted on lamp posts). 

Karen followed me to the family letter L at the intersection where barricades again stopped us from crossing.  The place is deserted except with a handful of volunteers.  This would normally be crowded with families and runners hugging, taking pictures, with happy smiles and joyful exhaustion on their faces.  Not today, I stood in the middle of the eerily quiet street shivering, crying, worrying about my family.  Some random person gave me his space blanket and a lady urged me to seek warmth inside the building.  I just wanted to stand there and wait for my family who would surely show up.  The lady said, "this is now a crime scene, everyone is evacuated or ordered out, you'd be safer going inside that "store". 

So Karen and I went inside, she immediately headed over to the counter to use their phone.  Suddenly my phone rang, it was Teena.  We both cried.  She was relieved to know I'm okay.  I was so so glad to hear her voice.  She asked me if I knew what happened.  I really didn't know any details.  Someone tapped me on my shoulder and had me turn around (I was facing the door, looking out in the street to make sure I won't miss seeing my family if they come).  Then I realized I was in a bar and there were TV sets on the wall.  There were people sitting at the bar but no one was talking, all glued to the TV.  I saw the headline streaming across the screen: 2 explosions, 2 dead, 63 injured.  I told Teena we had to hang up so I could call Larry.  As soon as she hang up, I heard Larry's voice, he kept saying hello hello hello but could not hear me.  So I hang up and dialed him and this time my call connected.

I was SO happy to hear his voice.  I kept telling him:  "Don't hang up!  Don't hang up!  Stay on the line! Stay on the line!" while I told him exactly where I was.  Turned out he and the rest of the family were standing at the traffic "island" on Stuart/Arlington, not too far from me.  I told him I would walk towards the Revere Hotel and kept describing what I just walked past.  In the excitement of connecting with him, I forgot to say goodbye to Karen.  I figured she would call her husband from the bar and get back to her hotel.

I was so so so relieved to see everyone safe and sound.  Eric has blood stain on his clothes.  We hugged and cried.  Larissa gave me her hoodie, Beth gave me her scarf to keep me warm.  They texted RAD to tell her where we would meet up, back to Boston Commons at the corner of Arlington/Boylston.  Hubby tried again to retrieve my bag as we saw throngs of runners exiting the barricades with their bags; but again denied entry by the police.  While waiting for RAD, suddenly Lowell and TJ showed up on their way to McDonalds (a post-race ritual of Lowell's).  

You have no idea how happy I was that everyone in our party is safe and reunited.  I have lost track of time.  In fact I had no idea when the bombs went off and when we finally reunited.  Later on from looking at the times of my cell phone calls, I realized it took us till near 6pm (over 2 hours) to reunite.  When I later saw the clock time at 4:09:43, I shuddered to think that would've been my BQ time and had I not been staying with Karen taking picture, goofing off, I'd be tempted to run a BQ time today!  Hubby, daughter and friends were standing outside Prudential Center (where he always waits, cheers because it's right outside the mall where he could grab a bite to eat after watching the Elites come in).  They saw the explosions across the street.  Eric saw and treated the wounded in the med. tent which immediately turned into a triage unit.  Again so grateful we were all safe!!! 

We got separated again when everyone went different ways, Lowell to McDonald, me and TJ to Four Season to use the bathroom (but was denied entry, as well as at Park Plaza, guess all the hotels were under locked down), hubby to clothing bus, Eric being interviewed.  I went back to where we last saw each other finding myself alone again and just started to cry.  A local TV station (abc) camera man and reporter interviewed me.  I don't think they aired the interview because I was kinda mad at Four Seasons for turning away a distraught, cold, little lady runner seeking only to use their restroom, all in the name of "protecting their registered guests."  C'mon, this is Boston, strangers would give the shirts off their back to help you; but apparently not the ritzy Four Seasons!  I won't be staying there anytime in the near future, ha! :)

Larissa came back to find me and we walked to McDonald's, the only place not under locked down.  Teena called and told me that they're releasing runner's bags at Berkely.  So we sent hubby to get mine, Eric to get Lowell's and TJ's.  I did not realize I had not eaten since breakfast and the last Gu at mile 23 until Beth bought me a burger and milk (with chocolate syrup, they ran out of chocolate milk).  Finally we were able to get on the T outbound to our hotel.  The hotel staff had pizza and salad for us in the lobby/lounge.  For the first time I saw on the hotel TV, images of the bombings and victims rushed to the med. tent and I just broke down.  I did not want to look at those images, I did not want to eat.  I just wanted to go up to the room.

I took a warm shower and the first call came from Gary, my bro-in-law, from Hong Kong.  He was supposed to be running this Boston but didn't due to work.  We talked to Gary, still not believing what had happened.  We sat down and numbly watched the day's event unfold on TV, so surreal.  It broke my heart to hear of those killed and severely injured.  RAD came with a bag of chips and salsa and we sat numbly.  I had bazillion text messages and missed calls and voice messages from friends and family expressing their love and concern. 

I just want to thank everyone here on the blog and all our friends and families all over the country and across the seas for your many kindness, love, thoughts and prayers.  It has sustained me over these last 15 days.

I will never understand such evil acts of violence to destroy innocent lives.  My heart goes out to the victims and their families.  I pray for them as well as for the perpetrators' families.  How great the loneliness, hurt and hate they must've felt to cause others such devastating injuries and loss.  If only each of us know that we are all God's children, that we ARE family.  If only we would treat each other as sons and daughters of God who loves us.  If only...

After a restless night, Larissa got up at 5am to shower and pack and then left for their 8:15 bus ride to NYC with her friends, Beth and Julianne.  I was so tired that I didn't even get out of bed to give her a hug!  It was not how I envisioned our visit in Boston to be.  We didn't even take her and her friends to a wonderful Boston seafood celebration dinner last night (like we traditionally do after the race). 

Eric, hubby and I grabbed breakfast, packed then went back down to the lobby to say goodbye to Lowell, Terry and RAD who were having breakfast. We took the T to the end of the red line at Allewife where there is a commuter parking lot right outside the T station.  Good planning on Eric's part.  Got in his car and he drove us home to Parma, OH (Cleveland).  There were armed national guards at every station.  None of that day after Boston Marathon glow, smile or pride to be seen! :(

Our hearts were heavy with sadness for the victims of the bombings.  We felt a small ray of peace as we drove past the Boston Temple in Belmont.  We drove thru upstate New York.  It rained the whole way.  We stopped for gas, lunch and dinner and it felt good to stretch out my legs a bit.  It was well past 10pm when we reached Eric's home.  Emi woke up...she gave us a happy welcome hug!  Marianne is so relieved to have Eric home safe and sound!  :)  They were so kind to give us their bed and room while they slept on the sofa cushions in the living room.

Happy Birthday to Marianne and Emi!!!  :) :) :)

Emi changed her clothes at least three times a day...funny girl!  :)

Last day of our visit with our grandkids in Parma!  

The cold north wind didn't help with my terrible head cold.  4 easy miles with Karen and Wendy just to chat about Boston.

Hubby and I talked about what happened in Boston exactly a week ago, from celebration to devastation, commaradery to chaos, dream to drudgery, triumph to tragedy. Larissa called. Eric called. I think we all are still dealing with post traumatic syndrome. Sigh! We mostly felt very sad and bad for those who lost lifes and limbs and their families whose lives are forever scared! Continual prayers for their healing, physically, emotionally and spiritually.

Today is our 35th Anniversary! Hubby and I nearly forgot! After picking up his suits and returning my dress, we went to a movie and dinner.

Too cold to be outside especially with my terrible head cold...cough, sneeze, cough, cough cough! :(

3 miles on the track.  AP: 8:45.  There was only one other girl running and tons of walkers.  I kept passing hubby and Elder and Sister Cook!  Silly me. :)

21 laps in the pool alternating between freestyle and backstroke.  Hoping the jaccuzi would help with my cold, guess not. :(

7 easy miles with Wendy and Karen on the MC trail.  AP: 9:45  Lots of coughing, spitting, nose blowing, coughing and more coughing. 

Temple in Provo with hubby and grandma.  Met one of our sister missionary who's attending BYU and leaving for home in VA tomorrow (originally from Bountiful) and back to the MTC in Aug.  I can tell she's going to be a great missionary.  :)