Yesterday my parents celebrated 50 years of marriage. A superb achievement don't you think?
We had a wonderful day. The Candlelight at Bishop's Wood once again served up an excellent buffet for 51 friends and relatives. Their service is second to none, the function room looked beautiful and to top it all we had brilliant sunshine streaming through the windows. It's always so lovely to have a family get together.
Back at Mum and Dads we put on some music and I kept turning it up but someone kept turning it down! I managed to persuade several friends to dance around the handbag! Abba apparently is not enjoyed by everybody but a mixture of Elvis, Roy Orbison and some good old traditional hits of the sixties encouraged participation. There were a few creaking hips and sore feet but we gave it our best shot!
Having told several friends during the day that, yes, I would be running on Sunday my wake up headache this morning had me thinking that maybe mixing Merlot and Prosecco and a gin or two hadn't been such a good idea! However my feet had recovered and I was able to walk in a straight line.
I waited until 2 o'clock before setting out. I promised myself a short outing and decided that focussing upon everything golden all around me would take away thoughts of the pain in my own hip and the fact that breathing was difficult! The sunshine was glorious although not warm. The many fallen leaves were slippery in places and there was very little traffic. I was very soon half way round and looking forward to my downhill all the way home section. A favourite piece of music helped me make the third kilometer my fastest section.
I actually enjoyed that run. I had been a little worried that having made it to the end of Stoptober (my hairdresser's name for not running during october) I might not get back into the running routine. The tightness of my waistbands mean I must get back into the running routine. After today's short but sweet outing I'm glad to say I am looking forward to my next run.
To all my married followers, keep up the good work, wedding anniversaries are great!
Sunday 11 November 2012
Sunday 4 November 2012
Driving In The Rain
This is my top wet weather tip for drivers:
When the road is wet, maybe there are puddles or even running water, kill your speed. Especially when you spot a high vis runner. Taking this action will prevent the runner from being sprayed in cold and dirty water.
Should you decide to take heed and be mindful for the comfort and safety of other road users this slowing action will gain you a thankful acknowledgement otherwise expect an angry fist wave and tirade of abuse.
Thank you.
When the road is wet, maybe there are puddles or even running water, kill your speed. Especially when you spot a high vis runner. Taking this action will prevent the runner from being sprayed in cold and dirty water.
Should you decide to take heed and be mindful for the comfort and safety of other road users this slowing action will gain you a thankful acknowledgement otherwise expect an angry fist wave and tirade of abuse.
Thank you.
Sunday 14 October 2012
Proud of my Friend
I did not want to get out of bed, I did not want to go running. I lay in bed listening to the pouring rain secretly hoping it would rain all day. I kept checking my phone, no messages. I did not dare to send one myself.
I kept stalling, I would have breakfast first, I would finish the chapter of my book, the rain had stopped. Eventually I dressed. I was cold, long joggers, jacket, hat. I did not want to run. Still no messages. Pouring with rain again but apparently we still had a date. I wondered if the rain storm was just over my village and my lazy bones. Maybe Taunton had bright sunshine.
I stalled again, a visit to the loo, can't find my nike+, can't find my car keys. Now I'm going to be late. I don't want to go. I've already made our start time later and still I want to stay at home even though this option means chores. I text, I'm on my way, OK comes the reply. OK, I'll leave then.
I make a plan, I just need to say the words hot chocolate and she will melt, she wont resist, she'll agree it's a mighty fine idea, who wants to run on a morning like this. I should run, Ali will want to, I can't let her down. I don't want to. I want hot chocolate. I hope for red lights to delay my arrival. I'm cold too.
There she is, waiting in the rain. It is raining in Taunton. It feels like it's raining everywhere. I do not want to run. I say the magic words and Ali agrees, hot chocolate - a mighty fine idea. I turn the car, hang on Ali has a plan. Lets run along the river to McDonald's, have a hot chocolate and run back. OK I agree, she hasn't won yet, it's still raining. I'm still cold.
We park up. I'm not getting out in this I say. I actually don't mind running in the rain I just find it incredibly hard to set out in the rain. And, today I'm not going to. We sit and listen, contemplate, wait. We could just go for it she says. My jacket's not waterproof I reply. It wont be too bad once we've started she says. It just the getting started I reply. This is not my Ali. Hot chocolate I had suggested. She's choosing running. I have no money for hot chocolate says she, I do says I.
Come on, lets go for it she encourages. I get out. It has stopped. I can see blue followed by more grey. We run. I need to get going to get warm. We notice the river running high. We dodge the puddles, we slip through the mud. I am not happy. My trainers are filthy. I do not do this off road trail type stuff. We natter and put the world to rights. We meet and greet numerous dogs and their owners, cyclists, walkers and pram pushers. I begin to feel better.
We run a lot, we walk a little. We reach our compromise. We are soon inside enjoying hot chocolate and we are soon back out in the sunshine retracing our steps. We walk back. We feel great. My mood has lifted. I am so glad Ali is so strong. I am so glad she stuck to her plan and dragged me along.
Thank you Ali x
I kept stalling, I would have breakfast first, I would finish the chapter of my book, the rain had stopped. Eventually I dressed. I was cold, long joggers, jacket, hat. I did not want to run. Still no messages. Pouring with rain again but apparently we still had a date. I wondered if the rain storm was just over my village and my lazy bones. Maybe Taunton had bright sunshine.
I stalled again, a visit to the loo, can't find my nike+, can't find my car keys. Now I'm going to be late. I don't want to go. I've already made our start time later and still I want to stay at home even though this option means chores. I text, I'm on my way, OK comes the reply. OK, I'll leave then.
I make a plan, I just need to say the words hot chocolate and she will melt, she wont resist, she'll agree it's a mighty fine idea, who wants to run on a morning like this. I should run, Ali will want to, I can't let her down. I don't want to. I want hot chocolate. I hope for red lights to delay my arrival. I'm cold too.
There she is, waiting in the rain. It is raining in Taunton. It feels like it's raining everywhere. I do not want to run. I say the magic words and Ali agrees, hot chocolate - a mighty fine idea. I turn the car, hang on Ali has a plan. Lets run along the river to McDonald's, have a hot chocolate and run back. OK I agree, she hasn't won yet, it's still raining. I'm still cold.
We park up. I'm not getting out in this I say. I actually don't mind running in the rain I just find it incredibly hard to set out in the rain. And, today I'm not going to. We sit and listen, contemplate, wait. We could just go for it she says. My jacket's not waterproof I reply. It wont be too bad once we've started she says. It just the getting started I reply. This is not my Ali. Hot chocolate I had suggested. She's choosing running. I have no money for hot chocolate says she, I do says I.
Come on, lets go for it she encourages. I get out. It has stopped. I can see blue followed by more grey. We run. I need to get going to get warm. We notice the river running high. We dodge the puddles, we slip through the mud. I am not happy. My trainers are filthy. I do not do this off road trail type stuff. We natter and put the world to rights. We meet and greet numerous dogs and their owners, cyclists, walkers and pram pushers. I begin to feel better.
We run a lot, we walk a little. We reach our compromise. We are soon inside enjoying hot chocolate and we are soon back out in the sunshine retracing our steps. We walk back. We feel great. My mood has lifted. I am so glad Ali is so strong. I am so glad she stuck to her plan and dragged me along.
Thank you Ali x
Wednesday 3 October 2012
Better Late Than Never
I am writing this with the biggest headache I think I have ever had. It has lasted for weeks, on and off. It started just before my son's wedding and I think the adrenaline from that staved it off for a few days before it returned with a vengeance. It didn't stop me from running on Sunday but it has delayed my writing of my blog and has stopped me from joining the running club this evening.
On Sunday I met up with my friend Fi to run in the Taunton 10K race. We both had the collywobbles, we knew we could do the distance but there is something quite unnerving about lining up at the start line with 648 other runners.
I got quite impatient waiting for the blast from the horn to send us on our way. I thought it might rain and I was cold, probably something to do with this bad head, so I had my jacket on and a hat, I regretted both by the time we were making our way up Chestnut Drive. The countdown began and the keen statisticians amongst us were paused over our various ipods, wrist watches and iphones to record hopefully our own personal bests.
With a loud hooting and hollering the crowd cheered us away from the start banner and as usual I found the pace far too quick and I was soon gasping for breath, I kept thinking any minute now Fi will be asking me if I'm OK, I don't think I would have been able to answer! I desperately wanted to rid myself of my heat retaining accoutrements but didn't dare slow down to deal with the problem. We were soon heading down Holway Hill and I was heartened by the fact that we did seem to be further up with the crowd than I have been in the past, this gave me great encouragement and worry, how on earth would I be able to keep up this pace? I so wanted to stride out down the hill but Tina's words of not going faster down the hills and letting the decline do all the work and to take it easy and rest up made me ease up. I'm always so tempted to just go hell for leather on the downhills, it's the only time I manage a decent speed!
Rounding the corner into Holway Avenue I began to feel this was going well but had to keep reminding myself that we were still quite some distance from home. I was delighted to reach Stoke Road in time to actually run in the road, in the past I've been so far back the pack I've been relegated to the pavement. My aim for next year popped into my head, maybe one time I would run along South Road thus avoiding the ups and downs of property drives that I detest so much. I doubt that will ever happen but I can dream.
An enormous cheer from Donna and Andy and then Jamie, Isla and Fin helped us along the next stage and I could already feel that Fi needed to be going at a faster pace than I was able to manage. She started to pull away from me as we neared the lane to Stoke and I reminded her that she must not wait for me. I tried desperately hard to stay with her and I kept her in my sight for at least the next 2K but gradually she started to pull away from me. I just kept thinking how hard the run was being. I know this route like the back of my hand and I tried to relax and enjoy myself. A young woman and her male partner just ahead of me kept slowing to a walk and for the rest of the run every time I managed to catch them during their slow stretches they then ran again and increased the gap once more.
Out through Haydon the traffic annoyed me, overtaking us on blind bends, too impatient to just wait and allow us our bit of road time. Surely they could see what was happening, after all there were plenty of marshals trying to keep us safe. I had now completely lost Fi from view.
There's no doubt about it, seeing people you know is such a great help, their words of encouragement are an enormous motivator. And then, complete strangers clap and cheer and get you up the hills and along the long stretches and keep you going when your legs are burning and your head is pounding. Every single word and clap from them is appreciated to the very bottom of my heart.
The last incline up and over the M5 for the second time and I suddenly spot a tall figure at the top that I'm sure I know. Once close enough I call across and ask if he had won. Sure enough, I haven't even finished and the winner is watching us lesser mortals stagger towards the end.
Once more I'm back onto Chestnut Drive, mustn't press too hard just yet, I always get such a sinking feeling when I take the next turning and realize I'm not quite so near to the finish as I think. My lovely husband is waiting to take pictures, bless him he managed to get 47 photos this year and most of them have both our heads and feet in!
Final stretch, my number and name is called over the tannoy, the buzz oh the buzz, I must sprint, the cheering, the clock, oh my, that's why this has been so hard, can I get there before 1hr and 8 minutes, I have never run so fast in all my life, except for maybe last year's sprint finish with Emmie! I pound towards the finish, the adrenaline pumping, coming through...
My time is recorded at 01:08:04
Just missed it, if only I hadn't walked that little bit, if only I had pelted down the hill, if only I had tried a little harder to stay with Fi.
Oh well, I guess that gives me a new goal for next year!
Fi finished a whole 4 minutes ahead of me, a very big well done to her. She has now suggested we take part in the Hestercombe Humdinger in February. I don't think so Mrs T, that, I think, is just a hill or two beyond my capabilities!
On Sunday I met up with my friend Fi to run in the Taunton 10K race. We both had the collywobbles, we knew we could do the distance but there is something quite unnerving about lining up at the start line with 648 other runners.
I got quite impatient waiting for the blast from the horn to send us on our way. I thought it might rain and I was cold, probably something to do with this bad head, so I had my jacket on and a hat, I regretted both by the time we were making our way up Chestnut Drive. The countdown began and the keen statisticians amongst us were paused over our various ipods, wrist watches and iphones to record hopefully our own personal bests.
With a loud hooting and hollering the crowd cheered us away from the start banner and as usual I found the pace far too quick and I was soon gasping for breath, I kept thinking any minute now Fi will be asking me if I'm OK, I don't think I would have been able to answer! I desperately wanted to rid myself of my heat retaining accoutrements but didn't dare slow down to deal with the problem. We were soon heading down Holway Hill and I was heartened by the fact that we did seem to be further up with the crowd than I have been in the past, this gave me great encouragement and worry, how on earth would I be able to keep up this pace? I so wanted to stride out down the hill but Tina's words of not going faster down the hills and letting the decline do all the work and to take it easy and rest up made me ease up. I'm always so tempted to just go hell for leather on the downhills, it's the only time I manage a decent speed!
Rounding the corner into Holway Avenue I began to feel this was going well but had to keep reminding myself that we were still quite some distance from home. I was delighted to reach Stoke Road in time to actually run in the road, in the past I've been so far back the pack I've been relegated to the pavement. My aim for next year popped into my head, maybe one time I would run along South Road thus avoiding the ups and downs of property drives that I detest so much. I doubt that will ever happen but I can dream.
An enormous cheer from Donna and Andy and then Jamie, Isla and Fin helped us along the next stage and I could already feel that Fi needed to be going at a faster pace than I was able to manage. She started to pull away from me as we neared the lane to Stoke and I reminded her that she must not wait for me. I tried desperately hard to stay with her and I kept her in my sight for at least the next 2K but gradually she started to pull away from me. I just kept thinking how hard the run was being. I know this route like the back of my hand and I tried to relax and enjoy myself. A young woman and her male partner just ahead of me kept slowing to a walk and for the rest of the run every time I managed to catch them during their slow stretches they then ran again and increased the gap once more.
Out through Haydon the traffic annoyed me, overtaking us on blind bends, too impatient to just wait and allow us our bit of road time. Surely they could see what was happening, after all there were plenty of marshals trying to keep us safe. I had now completely lost Fi from view.
There's no doubt about it, seeing people you know is such a great help, their words of encouragement are an enormous motivator. And then, complete strangers clap and cheer and get you up the hills and along the long stretches and keep you going when your legs are burning and your head is pounding. Every single word and clap from them is appreciated to the very bottom of my heart.
The last incline up and over the M5 for the second time and I suddenly spot a tall figure at the top that I'm sure I know. Once close enough I call across and ask if he had won. Sure enough, I haven't even finished and the winner is watching us lesser mortals stagger towards the end.
Once more I'm back onto Chestnut Drive, mustn't press too hard just yet, I always get such a sinking feeling when I take the next turning and realize I'm not quite so near to the finish as I think. My lovely husband is waiting to take pictures, bless him he managed to get 47 photos this year and most of them have both our heads and feet in!
Final stretch, my number and name is called over the tannoy, the buzz oh the buzz, I must sprint, the cheering, the clock, oh my, that's why this has been so hard, can I get there before 1hr and 8 minutes, I have never run so fast in all my life, except for maybe last year's sprint finish with Emmie! I pound towards the finish, the adrenaline pumping, coming through...
My time is recorded at 01:08:04
Just missed it, if only I hadn't walked that little bit, if only I had pelted down the hill, if only I had tried a little harder to stay with Fi.
Oh well, I guess that gives me a new goal for next year!
Saturday 29 September 2012
Happy Anniversary
This time last week I was enjoying a G & T with my son at Oake Manor whilst we awaited the guests for his wedding to our gorgeous daughter in law.
This time tomorrow I will hopefully have just completed the Taunton 10k for my third time. I'm not hoping to beat any records and I know my place, I shall be towards the back happy to have completed. My good friend Fi might be still with me or she may well have finished minutes ahead. Apparently rain is forecast but I don't mind, I just hope it isn't raining whilst we wait to start. If any of my local readers can spare a minute or 2 to pop along to the route and give me a wave and some encouragement (and even a jelly baby) I would be delighted to see you.
This time today I'm taking a break in the usual Saturday chores to write this blog but the day started on a much nicer note. Ali and I had a ruffle along the river enjoying another gloriously sunny Saturday. Ali has been unwell and this was her first outing for a few days and as I'm hoping to put in a good time tomorrow we had planned a gentle walk/jog and natter.
On the return leg of our route Ali suddenly said "There's a runner coming we best run," so we did, said runner passed us with a cheery hello, we both responded with surprised hellos to him and then a surprised look at each other as we realised we all knew each other. The upshot of our conversation is that we might be running the London 10k, although I have no idea when it is, where it is or anything. Amazing what you'll agree to on a sunny Saturday morning!
This time tomorrow I will hopefully have just completed the Taunton 10k for my third time. I'm not hoping to beat any records and I know my place, I shall be towards the back happy to have completed. My good friend Fi might be still with me or she may well have finished minutes ahead. Apparently rain is forecast but I don't mind, I just hope it isn't raining whilst we wait to start. If any of my local readers can spare a minute or 2 to pop along to the route and give me a wave and some encouragement (and even a jelly baby) I would be delighted to see you.
This time today I'm taking a break in the usual Saturday chores to write this blog but the day started on a much nicer note. Ali and I had a ruffle along the river enjoying another gloriously sunny Saturday. Ali has been unwell and this was her first outing for a few days and as I'm hoping to put in a good time tomorrow we had planned a gentle walk/jog and natter.
On the return leg of our route Ali suddenly said "There's a runner coming we best run," so we did, said runner passed us with a cheery hello, we both responded with surprised hellos to him and then a surprised look at each other as we realised we all knew each other. The upshot of our conversation is that we might be running the London 10k, although I have no idea when it is, where it is or anything. Amazing what you'll agree to on a sunny Saturday morning!
Wednesday 26 September 2012
Recovery Run
Recovering from my son and daughter in law's most wonderful wedding that is. What a day. Best of all the sun shone, we were so lucky.
The day began with Champagne, smoked salmon and scrambled eggs. I arrived at the venue with Rob in enough time to give everything the once over and to sit in the sunshine and enjoy a G & T, precious Mum & Son time.
Before long all our friends and relatives had arrived and eventually Steve, my husband and Lewis our youngest son got through the traffic and arrived with my corsage.
Vicki came down the aisle to "Here Comes The Sun" beautifully played on the clarinet by her nephew. She looked beautiful, she is beautiful, all the way through, such a gorgeous girl, we are so lucky to now be able to call her our daughter in law.
Pimms and photographs in the sunshine were followed by an excellent lunch. Oake Manor did us proud. My salmon and monk fish terrine, beef wellington and profiteroles were delicious. The Pinot Grigio went down very well and the toasting was accompanied by a most delightful Prosecco.
A short gap followed before the disco began and I'm proud to say I was first on the dance floor! I danced all night, keeping my beautiful shoes on until about 10.30. I'm sure the G & Ts helped numb the pain in my toes!
Rob & Vicki left shortly after midnight to start their new life as Mr & Mrs and I fell into bed at about 1.30 a.m.
A very big brunch on Sunday finished the celebrating and now you can see why I needed a recovery run!
The day began with Champagne, smoked salmon and scrambled eggs. I arrived at the venue with Rob in enough time to give everything the once over and to sit in the sunshine and enjoy a G & T, precious Mum & Son time.
Before long all our friends and relatives had arrived and eventually Steve, my husband and Lewis our youngest son got through the traffic and arrived with my corsage.
Vicki came down the aisle to "Here Comes The Sun" beautifully played on the clarinet by her nephew. She looked beautiful, she is beautiful, all the way through, such a gorgeous girl, we are so lucky to now be able to call her our daughter in law.
Pimms and photographs in the sunshine were followed by an excellent lunch. Oake Manor did us proud. My salmon and monk fish terrine, beef wellington and profiteroles were delicious. The Pinot Grigio went down very well and the toasting was accompanied by a most delightful Prosecco.
A short gap followed before the disco began and I'm proud to say I was first on the dance floor! I danced all night, keeping my beautiful shoes on until about 10.30. I'm sure the G & Ts helped numb the pain in my toes!
Rob & Vicki left shortly after midnight to start their new life as Mr & Mrs and I fell into bed at about 1.30 a.m.
A very big brunch on Sunday finished the celebrating and now you can see why I needed a recovery run!
Wednesday 19 September 2012
Quite Possibly the Best Run of My Life
This evening I ran for the second time with the Running Forever group. We ran further than last week. I ran better than last week. I did not spend the whole time huffing and puffing at the back and I ran up the hill that last week nearly finished me off for good.
I enjoyed every minute of our 1 hour and 15 minute jaunt. Even when my lace came undone I managed to catch up again impressively quickly.
I managed to stick with Tina for almost all of the route and each time I fell back I was determined and succeeded in catching her. We even led for a substantial part of the way!
I now have a new route that I shall be able to incorporate into my solo running trips.
I even managed a sprint finish.
And between you and me, I think I could have gone further!
I enjoyed every minute of our 1 hour and 15 minute jaunt. Even when my lace came undone I managed to catch up again impressively quickly.
I managed to stick with Tina for almost all of the route and each time I fell back I was determined and succeeded in catching her. We even led for a substantial part of the way!
I now have a new route that I shall be able to incorporate into my solo running trips.
I even managed a sprint finish.
And between you and me, I think I could have gone further!
Sunday 16 September 2012
I spy with my little eye...
Ali, my Saturday morning running buddy.
Buses, delivering the early morning workers.
A cat that owned the road.
Dogs, tails a wagging, noses sniffing.
Eco art bringing a dead tree back to beautiful life.
Fog, in all its autumn glory.
Gates to be vaulted.
Houses big and small.
Inclines to be beaten.
Joggers jogging.
Kettle, my first point of call upon my return.
Long Run Meadows, nearing the end.
Miles, 5.5 covered today.
Nike, my precious chip storing the stats.
Opportunities taken to extend the route.
Pavements travelled around the town.
Queues of traffic waiting at the lights.
Roads leading to achievement.
Stiles to be climbed.
Train track to be crossed.
Underground, overground, litter waiting for the wombles.
Very well done, running for longer.
Walking for less.
eXcited wedding talk.
Yesterday's exercise.
Today's rest zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
Buses, delivering the early morning workers.
A cat that owned the road.
Dogs, tails a wagging, noses sniffing.
Eco art bringing a dead tree back to beautiful life.
Fog, in all its autumn glory.
Gates to be vaulted.
Houses big and small.
Inclines to be beaten.
Joggers jogging.
Kettle, my first point of call upon my return.
Long Run Meadows, nearing the end.
Miles, 5.5 covered today.
Nike, my precious chip storing the stats.
Opportunities taken to extend the route.
Pavements travelled around the town.
Queues of traffic waiting at the lights.
Roads leading to achievement.
Stiles to be climbed.
Train track to be crossed.
Underground, overground, litter waiting for the wombles.
Very well done, running for longer.
Walking for less.
eXcited wedding talk.
Yesterday's exercise.
Today's rest zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
Thursday 13 September 2012
220
I've got my number...
Yesterday I ran with a running club for the first time. My long time friend and occasional running partner Tina suggested that I and our joint friend Fi joined her and her running club as they were going to do the Taunton 10k route. Great idea we thought and agreed to met her at 6.30 at the start of the route. Fi and me arrived at the same time and both declared how nervous we were. We found Tina and the group and soon set off. Almost immediately we were abandoned by the 3 males in the group who declared the pace was slow!
Slow, I was barely able to breath and already panicking and deciding that there was no way I was going to keep up with this lot. After a brief level start an incline had me almost gasping barely able to make polite conversation with the person next to me. Inclines are quite often followed by declines and during this short stretch I was able to take off my jacket and relax a little.
Running with a group brought quite a few differences to running solo or with a partner. We were now on a stretch of road without a pavement and we were on the left side of the road, the back marker shouts out when vehicles are approaching and single file is observed. I spent quite a lot of the route in my customary place at the back and every now and then those leading and widening the gap loop back and rejoin at the back for a while. I felt quite guilty about this, after all it was highly unlikely that I would ever have to loop!
A brief stop at Stoke for water kindly left by one of the boys by now far, far into the distance, was much appreciated although the stop really broke my albeit slow rhythm, plus an incline up to the church had me once again thinking I was not going to make it back. I didn't dare look at my ipod to check how far we had gone nor to check the pace, we were definitely moving more quickly than I am used to. I struggled for the next kilometer but then seemed to have a second wind, I was right up with the front runners, apart from the whippet leading the way, and as I knew a downhill was fast approaching I so dearly wanted to overtake them but thought that might not be polite etiquette and decided to stay where I was. I was enjoying following somebody, keeping in time with their rhythm.
Only a few minutes later and I was at the back again. Fi and I ran together for a while through my most hated section, the road through Haydon. It's long and I am always slow through here. Last year during the race I had serious concerns that I would have to walk, fortunately on this outing I managed to keep going, probably because the back runner, whose name I didn't manage to find out, kept me going. She assured me she didn't mind how slow we travelled and she kept reassuring me that I could keep going.
The last incline up and over the M5, oh my, so hard, I was so hot, so tired, more encouragement got me to the other side and I was able to relax into the downhill and make some headway towards the pack, the whippet in pink was long gone but I wasn't letting the rest disappear. The back runner and another girl, who I am sure isn't normally at the back but who was having problems getting her breathing right were behind me. I had to keep going I had to keep my pace up, I was not going to be last, they were not going to catch me.
Last turn to the end, they caught me, I could hear them, I thought they were going to overtake, but they shouted encouragement, they told me to not let them catch me, they told me to run, I found something from somewhere, it burned like hell, my legs hurt, there's nothing left, I must not stop, I must not stop.
I did it. At last I could stop. I had knocked 3 minutes off my most recent time for the route and 2 minutes off my previous fastest time. And now Fi and me have to do it all again on Sunday 30th September. Tina and Fi are going with Running Forever again next Wednesday, will I join them?
Yesterday I ran with a running club for the first time. My long time friend and occasional running partner Tina suggested that I and our joint friend Fi joined her and her running club as they were going to do the Taunton 10k route. Great idea we thought and agreed to met her at 6.30 at the start of the route. Fi and me arrived at the same time and both declared how nervous we were. We found Tina and the group and soon set off. Almost immediately we were abandoned by the 3 males in the group who declared the pace was slow!
Slow, I was barely able to breath and already panicking and deciding that there was no way I was going to keep up with this lot. After a brief level start an incline had me almost gasping barely able to make polite conversation with the person next to me. Inclines are quite often followed by declines and during this short stretch I was able to take off my jacket and relax a little.
Running with a group brought quite a few differences to running solo or with a partner. We were now on a stretch of road without a pavement and we were on the left side of the road, the back marker shouts out when vehicles are approaching and single file is observed. I spent quite a lot of the route in my customary place at the back and every now and then those leading and widening the gap loop back and rejoin at the back for a while. I felt quite guilty about this, after all it was highly unlikely that I would ever have to loop!
A brief stop at Stoke for water kindly left by one of the boys by now far, far into the distance, was much appreciated although the stop really broke my albeit slow rhythm, plus an incline up to the church had me once again thinking I was not going to make it back. I didn't dare look at my ipod to check how far we had gone nor to check the pace, we were definitely moving more quickly than I am used to. I struggled for the next kilometer but then seemed to have a second wind, I was right up with the front runners, apart from the whippet leading the way, and as I knew a downhill was fast approaching I so dearly wanted to overtake them but thought that might not be polite etiquette and decided to stay where I was. I was enjoying following somebody, keeping in time with their rhythm.
Only a few minutes later and I was at the back again. Fi and I ran together for a while through my most hated section, the road through Haydon. It's long and I am always slow through here. Last year during the race I had serious concerns that I would have to walk, fortunately on this outing I managed to keep going, probably because the back runner, whose name I didn't manage to find out, kept me going. She assured me she didn't mind how slow we travelled and she kept reassuring me that I could keep going.
The last incline up and over the M5, oh my, so hard, I was so hot, so tired, more encouragement got me to the other side and I was able to relax into the downhill and make some headway towards the pack, the whippet in pink was long gone but I wasn't letting the rest disappear. The back runner and another girl, who I am sure isn't normally at the back but who was having problems getting her breathing right were behind me. I had to keep going I had to keep my pace up, I was not going to be last, they were not going to catch me.
Last turn to the end, they caught me, I could hear them, I thought they were going to overtake, but they shouted encouragement, they told me to not let them catch me, they told me to run, I found something from somewhere, it burned like hell, my legs hurt, there's nothing left, I must not stop, I must not stop.
I did it. At last I could stop. I had knocked 3 minutes off my most recent time for the route and 2 minutes off my previous fastest time. And now Fi and me have to do it all again on Sunday 30th September. Tina and Fi are going with Running Forever again next Wednesday, will I join them?
Sunday 9 September 2012
A New PB For Pace
I don't follow a running plan as such but I do log all my runs and I like to run circuitous routes both clockwise and anti-clockwise and on more than one occasion to see if I can beat my times. Having done this on all the runs on my current run sheet I decided to look for runs I have recorded that I haven't done for a while. I was relieved when the first run on old chart was a 5.8 km out and back trip to the motorway bridge.
I spent a lovely day in glorious sunshine with my Mum at Tyntsfield on Saturday. Having spent most of the day taking photographs with my new camera and once I dropped Mum home I made a flying dash to Asda before spending just a few hours unsuccessfully trying to download/upload the pictures onto my Facebook page I was very pleased to be doing a short run. I had found getting out of bed very difficult.
I set out nice and steady, and tried to speed up for every other ipod track which I mostly succeeded in doing. The lane was busy today, lots of dog walkers, cyclists and runners but noticeably no horses. I would just like to pick up on a point recently made by my running partner Ali, a brief nod of the head, a raise of the hand and best of all a smile and or a greeting would be much appreciated, especially if you're moving more quickly than me!
I was pleasantly surprised to find my homeward journey was happening quite nicely and I was still managing to push forward with extra effort on the alternative song. I even managed a longer than usual sprint finish. Sitting on my garden wall I was gasping for breath whilst my Nike chip commentator congratulated me on clocking up another 250 miles. I listened to my 37 minute achievement stats but it wasn't until I filled in my log sheet that I realised I had beaten my best pace speed.
One delighted runner!
Now, how do i get those photos off my camera...
I spent a lovely day in glorious sunshine with my Mum at Tyntsfield on Saturday. Having spent most of the day taking photographs with my new camera and once I dropped Mum home I made a flying dash to Asda before spending just a few hours unsuccessfully trying to download/upload the pictures onto my Facebook page I was very pleased to be doing a short run. I had found getting out of bed very difficult.
I set out nice and steady, and tried to speed up for every other ipod track which I mostly succeeded in doing. The lane was busy today, lots of dog walkers, cyclists and runners but noticeably no horses. I would just like to pick up on a point recently made by my running partner Ali, a brief nod of the head, a raise of the hand and best of all a smile and or a greeting would be much appreciated, especially if you're moving more quickly than me!
I was pleasantly surprised to find my homeward journey was happening quite nicely and I was still managing to push forward with extra effort on the alternative song. I even managed a longer than usual sprint finish. Sitting on my garden wall I was gasping for breath whilst my Nike chip commentator congratulated me on clocking up another 250 miles. I listened to my 37 minute achievement stats but it wasn't until I filled in my log sheet that I realised I had beaten my best pace speed.
One delighted runner!
Now, how do i get those photos off my camera...
Friday 7 September 2012
Once, Twice, Three Times A...
Lady?
No I don't think so!
I ran 8.5 km on Wednesday. I ran 5.5 km on Thursday. I ran 11.5 km today. 25 km in one week and I haven't done my Sunday run yet.
Three days in a row and I'm well happy. Apart from running into a lamp post on today's run with my new running buddy Fi!
Fi has entered the Taunton 10k on September 30th as have I so we thought we had best run together before the big day. I hope I didn't slow her down too much, she certainly put me through my paces but I thoroughly enjoyed our outing, apart from the huffing and puffing and the uphills.
Next Wednesday we are running the Taunton 10k route with Tina, a friend of ours and her running club Running Forever. I'm sure I shall keep you posted. I am quietly terrified, I know I shall be at the back.
But now I need to put the kettle on and my feet up.
Goodnight x
No I don't think so!
I ran 8.5 km on Wednesday. I ran 5.5 km on Thursday. I ran 11.5 km today. 25 km in one week and I haven't done my Sunday run yet.
Three days in a row and I'm well happy. Apart from running into a lamp post on today's run with my new running buddy Fi!
Fi has entered the Taunton 10k on September 30th as have I so we thought we had best run together before the big day. I hope I didn't slow her down too much, she certainly put me through my paces but I thoroughly enjoyed our outing, apart from the huffing and puffing and the uphills.
Next Wednesday we are running the Taunton 10k route with Tina, a friend of ours and her running club Running Forever. I'm sure I shall keep you posted. I am quietly terrified, I know I shall be at the back.
But now I need to put the kettle on and my feet up.
Goodnight x
Wednesday 5 September 2012
My Waistband's Too Tight!
Orange linen Boden skirt - not a chance.
Red linen cropped trousers - OK 'til lunchtime.
Blue Boden skirt - Too tight right from the morning.
Green cropped trousers - bearable and I only undid the button to eat my lunch and then to drive home!
Goodness knows what I'm going to try and wear tomorrow.
Can I wear my PJs?
Red linen cropped trousers - OK 'til lunchtime.
Blue Boden skirt - Too tight right from the morning.
Green cropped trousers - bearable and I only undid the button to eat my lunch and then to drive home!
Goodness knows what I'm going to try and wear tomorrow.
Can I wear my PJs?
Thursday 30 August 2012
Half of a Half
Hurrah - we did it!
Today Ali and I ran from Bridgwater Docks to Maunsel Lock. In my mind, completing this canal from Bridgwater to Taunton in one go will mean that I am able to complete a half marathon. Today we completed about half of the canal (give or take a km or two) therefore at this point in time I can complete half of a half marathon (give or take a km or two.) Taunton half marathon look out, we're coming...
Ali's lovely husband Chris picked me up and delivered us to Bridgwater Docks at just gone 10 this morning. Two heavy downpours earlier this morning had us both in our jackets but determined to complete this half of the Taunton to Bridgwater canal and we set off in beautiful sunshine with a gentle breeze pushing us onwards.
Once we had sorted our clothing issues we settled down to the job in hand. Heavy rain the previous day and night meant the path was quite muddy in places and the canal was very high but the water was crystal clear. Today we met several walkers both with and without four legged furry friends, cyclists - one even with a working bell - and workmen. Just past The Boat & Anchor pub the men were laying a new hardcore path, a short stretch of red carpet gravel both pleasing to the eye and gentle to the foot.
The second third seemed interminably long with me declaring on numerous occasions that we were getting near to North Newton, eventually we did get to North Newton and we were both very glad we had decided against tackling the whole route in one go. This really is a most beautiful part of the country and if you have never had the chance to walk/run/cycle the path I sincerely suggest you do. There are car parks at various points along the way and if you time your exploration well you can find tea & cake or a pint and a sandwich or more at several hostelries along the way.
Both Ali and myself are keen photographers and at several spots we both declared a good view or doe eyed creature just waiting to be captured. We are now both keen to retrace our steps laden down with walking boots, cameras and lenses various. At last Ali spied the Union Flag fluttering in the now strong headwind signaling our almost arrival at Maunsel Lock. Steely determination and the fear that Chris may be stationed on the bridge with his camera led us to complete our morning's exercise with a final burst of running up and over the final bridge into the cafe.
A very nice young man gladly gave us a glass of water each whilst we decided which toasted sandwiches we were going to eat to celebrate our success, it was lunchtime after all! He congratulated us on our achievement and he did seem very sincere in his admiration for what we had done. He then told us that later today he was taking part in a fifty mile cycle ride! Our deflation only lasted momentarily before we returned the admiration for his forthcoming endeavour.
According to the markers along the way we had completed 10.2 km, Ali's Nike chip said about 12 km and mine said 14 km. Sadly, I suspect the former distance is the correct one, but we are taking Ali's reading as the truer reading, being the middle one, but I have logged my distance into my stats as it is relevant to all the other distances I have logged.
This is the furthest I have ever run and is the longest time I have been running for.
Today is a good day 8)
Today Ali and I ran from Bridgwater Docks to Maunsel Lock. In my mind, completing this canal from Bridgwater to Taunton in one go will mean that I am able to complete a half marathon. Today we completed about half of the canal (give or take a km or two) therefore at this point in time I can complete half of a half marathon (give or take a km or two.) Taunton half marathon look out, we're coming...
Once we had sorted our clothing issues we settled down to the job in hand. Heavy rain the previous day and night meant the path was quite muddy in places and the canal was very high but the water was crystal clear. Today we met several walkers both with and without four legged furry friends, cyclists - one even with a working bell - and workmen. Just past The Boat & Anchor pub the men were laying a new hardcore path, a short stretch of red carpet gravel both pleasing to the eye and gentle to the foot.
The second third seemed interminably long with me declaring on numerous occasions that we were getting near to North Newton, eventually we did get to North Newton and we were both very glad we had decided against tackling the whole route in one go. This really is a most beautiful part of the country and if you have never had the chance to walk/run/cycle the path I sincerely suggest you do. There are car parks at various points along the way and if you time your exploration well you can find tea & cake or a pint and a sandwich or more at several hostelries along the way.
Both Ali and myself are keen photographers and at several spots we both declared a good view or doe eyed creature just waiting to be captured. We are now both keen to retrace our steps laden down with walking boots, cameras and lenses various. At last Ali spied the Union Flag fluttering in the now strong headwind signaling our almost arrival at Maunsel Lock. Steely determination and the fear that Chris may be stationed on the bridge with his camera led us to complete our morning's exercise with a final burst of running up and over the final bridge into the cafe.
A very nice young man gladly gave us a glass of water each whilst we decided which toasted sandwiches we were going to eat to celebrate our success, it was lunchtime after all! He congratulated us on our achievement and he did seem very sincere in his admiration for what we had done. He then told us that later today he was taking part in a fifty mile cycle ride! Our deflation only lasted momentarily before we returned the admiration for his forthcoming endeavour.
According to the markers along the way we had completed 10.2 km, Ali's Nike chip said about 12 km and mine said 14 km. Sadly, I suspect the former distance is the correct one, but we are taking Ali's reading as the truer reading, being the middle one, but I have logged my distance into my stats as it is relevant to all the other distances I have logged.
This is the furthest I have ever run and is the longest time I have been running for.
Today is a good day 8)
Tuesday 28 August 2012
Running All The Way
It probably wasn't real running but I didn't walk and only had to pause once to cross a road so I'm really pleased.
A fairly flat almost figure of 8 route has got my motivation back. Just like on the last run I set out nice and slowly but my legs were really stiff and not really in the mood for moving. I passed a neighbour walking her dogs and commented on the glorious weather. I had dressed for what looked to be a chilly morning but was pleasantly warm. Our 70+ paper delivery boy received my next greeting but I didn't catch his reply, see I was running!
A little ahead of me along the lane out of the village I spied two lady residents out on their morning ramble. Seeing people ahead of me is always a great incentive and I was soon passing them and of course keeping at my pace until I was sure I had disappeared from their sight.
Soon I was turning back towards home and now had the sun on my face. After crossing the M5 I enjoyed a downhill broad sweep which is always followed by a difficult long slow slightly uphill climb and with the full force of the sun beating down on my face I gritted my teeth, today I was determined to get the whole way out and back without walking.
Back into the village and I'm nearing the end of my 8K trek. Can I manage a sprint finish? One minute I'm thinking yes and the next no. I convince myself to give it a try and I'm soon reaching for my ipod as I turn into our steep drive and await to here my stats for the past 53 and a half minutes.
I ran all the way - I'm happy.
A fairly flat almost figure of 8 route has got my motivation back. Just like on the last run I set out nice and slowly but my legs were really stiff and not really in the mood for moving. I passed a neighbour walking her dogs and commented on the glorious weather. I had dressed for what looked to be a chilly morning but was pleasantly warm. Our 70+ paper delivery boy received my next greeting but I didn't catch his reply, see I was running!
A little ahead of me along the lane out of the village I spied two lady residents out on their morning ramble. Seeing people ahead of me is always a great incentive and I was soon passing them and of course keeping at my pace until I was sure I had disappeared from their sight.
Soon I was turning back towards home and now had the sun on my face. After crossing the M5 I enjoyed a downhill broad sweep which is always followed by a difficult long slow slightly uphill climb and with the full force of the sun beating down on my face I gritted my teeth, today I was determined to get the whole way out and back without walking.
Back into the village and I'm nearing the end of my 8K trek. Can I manage a sprint finish? One minute I'm thinking yes and the next no. I convince myself to give it a try and I'm soon reaching for my ipod as I turn into our steep drive and await to here my stats for the past 53 and a half minutes.
I ran all the way - I'm happy.
Sunday 26 August 2012
Another Year Older...
And it's not getting any easier.
I set out at a gentle pace having already decided to take things easy and to not push too hard. My aim was to run all the way. The first incline and I slowed to a walk. This was not looking good. I managed the second incline, steely determination getting me to the top. The third was a long and slow incline, I managed about a third before giving in and giving myself a really hard time about it. But then whilst taking in the beautiful view on a glorious sunny Sunday morning I gave myself a stern talking to. I was out and about enjoying the warmth of the sun and the gentle breeze on my face, finding views I need to revisit with my birthday present camera and burning calories and being kind to my heart and body.
Then, it got easier, I relaxed and settled into a steady pace and enjoyed the music. I walked the final incline without a care in the world and the final stretch of my run was probably the best bit of the whole 5.5 miles.
It would be so nice to have a good run, I haven't had that for quite some time. I don't know where I'm going wrong but I must be due one sometime soon, please!
I set out at a gentle pace having already decided to take things easy and to not push too hard. My aim was to run all the way. The first incline and I slowed to a walk. This was not looking good. I managed the second incline, steely determination getting me to the top. The third was a long and slow incline, I managed about a third before giving in and giving myself a really hard time about it. But then whilst taking in the beautiful view on a glorious sunny Sunday morning I gave myself a stern talking to. I was out and about enjoying the warmth of the sun and the gentle breeze on my face, finding views I need to revisit with my birthday present camera and burning calories and being kind to my heart and body.
Then, it got easier, I relaxed and settled into a steady pace and enjoyed the music. I walked the final incline without a care in the world and the final stretch of my run was probably the best bit of the whole 5.5 miles.
It would be so nice to have a good run, I haven't had that for quite some time. I don't know where I'm going wrong but I must be due one sometime soon, please!
Wednesday 22 August 2012
Brrrrrrrrr...
I went out at 7.30 this morning and there was a chill in the air reminding me that autumn is just around the corner and my feet got soaking wet. My trainers are still out in the sunshine drying off. I'm glad I didn't go out an hour earlier which is what I had planned. I did find the temperature very pleasing although the run was still very hard.
My route today took in a section of the very busy A358 and I knew the earlier I set out the better it would be with regards to the traffic on that stretch. I was able to cut across a field on a footpath as it had recently been harvested, my last attempt at this route left me with shredded legs (for which I still bear the scars) as it was neck high in crop and the path overgrown with goose grass and nettles.
I don't seem to have managed a proper 'run all the way' run for a few weeks. Today I was disappointed as yet again I needed to slow right down on several stretches. I'm not setting out too quickly, chance would be a fine thing, I'm trying to push myself, my trainers are comfy, I'm not too hot, so I just can't work out where I'm going wrong.
I have the best motivation, my son marries his gorgeous fiancee a month today and I love my outfit and want to look my very best. I can do the distances I set out to do and although I can't beat my times for these routes I have run them without walking in the past so why can't I now?
Oh well, I'll try again on Friday.
Watch this space.
My route today took in a section of the very busy A358 and I knew the earlier I set out the better it would be with regards to the traffic on that stretch. I was able to cut across a field on a footpath as it had recently been harvested, my last attempt at this route left me with shredded legs (for which I still bear the scars) as it was neck high in crop and the path overgrown with goose grass and nettles.
I don't seem to have managed a proper 'run all the way' run for a few weeks. Today I was disappointed as yet again I needed to slow right down on several stretches. I'm not setting out too quickly, chance would be a fine thing, I'm trying to push myself, my trainers are comfy, I'm not too hot, so I just can't work out where I'm going wrong.
I have the best motivation, my son marries his gorgeous fiancee a month today and I love my outfit and want to look my very best. I can do the distances I set out to do and although I can't beat my times for these routes I have run them without walking in the past so why can't I now?
Oh well, I'll try again on Friday.
Watch this space.
Monday 20 August 2012
Going Long
An 11k run was on the cards today and I was up for it.
Warming up gently down our lane my legs were very stiff and both knees painful, the legs I understood but the knees a bit of a mystery, I've been in flats for at least the last 3 weeks, not a wedge or a heel to be seen.
Track two on the ipod, time to push a bit harder, up past the church and out through the village onto a busy cut through. Fortunately I'm out early and traffic is not a problem. First the sun was on my face and now it's on my back and it's gaining in temperature. This is a long stretch, it's part of the Taunton 10k route and try as I might I don't like it.
Soon I'm through the tricky bend and heading down a gentle slope and all too soon this becomes an incline as we rise up and over a very busy M5 I'm reduced to a walk, it's really warm and I have to pace myself as I have a long way to go.
I have a problem, I can feel a toe nail is cutting into its neighbouring toe and it hurts. I promise myself as soon as I come to a bench I will sit down and sort it out except there are no benches, not one, in 11k not a single bench.
Another long stretch out past the Blackbrook Pavilion, through the bus cut through lane and under the motorway. Traffic is heavy here and I have to concentrate to cross 9 lanes of traffic to safety. The sun is beating down as I pass the park and ride and more confusion crossing another 8 road entrances and exits.
Traffic through Henlade is slow and I try to keep overtaking the slowly moving queue, it starts to move and I almost slow to a walk but decide I must keep going until all the traffic I have passed re passes me otherwise the drivers and passengers will have beaten me and will make fun of my poor attempt at running.
At last I turn off this busy road back into the quieter lanes and walk to the top of an incline. I gently jog down the other side and keep going all the way through Lower Henlade until I turn towards home. Another incline, another walk. I meet a fellow runner and smile admitting that today I have been beaten. Heading into the village I can see horses ahead. I decide that if I walk quickly for a couple of minutes I should catch them just on the bend by the last downhill part of the road. If I catch them there I can run on and get past them before I'm too tired to run anymore.
My plan worked and now I'm contemplating the sprint finish. I try to convince myself that I can do a sprint finish. I carry on through the last lane and decide there is no way I will ever manage a sprint finish and as I approach our drive I know the sprint finish will have to wait until next time!
Warming up gently down our lane my legs were very stiff and both knees painful, the legs I understood but the knees a bit of a mystery, I've been in flats for at least the last 3 weeks, not a wedge or a heel to be seen.
Track two on the ipod, time to push a bit harder, up past the church and out through the village onto a busy cut through. Fortunately I'm out early and traffic is not a problem. First the sun was on my face and now it's on my back and it's gaining in temperature. This is a long stretch, it's part of the Taunton 10k route and try as I might I don't like it.
Soon I'm through the tricky bend and heading down a gentle slope and all too soon this becomes an incline as we rise up and over a very busy M5 I'm reduced to a walk, it's really warm and I have to pace myself as I have a long way to go.
I have a problem, I can feel a toe nail is cutting into its neighbouring toe and it hurts. I promise myself as soon as I come to a bench I will sit down and sort it out except there are no benches, not one, in 11k not a single bench.
Another long stretch out past the Blackbrook Pavilion, through the bus cut through lane and under the motorway. Traffic is heavy here and I have to concentrate to cross 9 lanes of traffic to safety. The sun is beating down as I pass the park and ride and more confusion crossing another 8 road entrances and exits.
Traffic through Henlade is slow and I try to keep overtaking the slowly moving queue, it starts to move and I almost slow to a walk but decide I must keep going until all the traffic I have passed re passes me otherwise the drivers and passengers will have beaten me and will make fun of my poor attempt at running.
At last I turn off this busy road back into the quieter lanes and walk to the top of an incline. I gently jog down the other side and keep going all the way through Lower Henlade until I turn towards home. Another incline, another walk. I meet a fellow runner and smile admitting that today I have been beaten. Heading into the village I can see horses ahead. I decide that if I walk quickly for a couple of minutes I should catch them just on the bend by the last downhill part of the road. If I catch them there I can run on and get past them before I'm too tired to run anymore.
My plan worked and now I'm contemplating the sprint finish. I try to convince myself that I can do a sprint finish. I carry on through the last lane and decide there is no way I will ever manage a sprint finish and as I approach our drive I know the sprint finish will have to wait until next time!
Saturday 18 August 2012
Navigators
NAVIGATORS
HARD GRAFT
SINEW AND BONE
JOLT OF THE PICK
CRACK OF THE HAMMER
IRON ON STONE
RED QUANTOCK
WE CAME AND WENT
OUR LEGACY
A BOAT
COMING CLEAN
THROUGH THE HILL
Tony Charles with local people
Peter Milner
Thursday 16 August 2012
Running Up That Hill
Out the door and down the drive.
Up the lane, slight incline.
First hill slowly building, steep, plateau, steeper, relief at the top.
Turn off to the left, still gently climbing and a final push to the top.
Down, down, glorious down.
Another turn, nice and level, up over the bridge and out onto the dual carriage way.
Noisy and fast, refuge in the central reservation, a hop, skip and a jump and turn off back into a peaceful lane.
Strong headwind, head down, keep to the beat of the music.
Up again, up again, up again.
I can do it, I can do it, I can do it.
I did it!
Downhill all the way home.
Sprint finish?
Oh yes 8)
Up the lane, slight incline.
First hill slowly building, steep, plateau, steeper, relief at the top.
Turn off to the left, still gently climbing and a final push to the top.
Down, down, glorious down.
Another turn, nice and level, up over the bridge and out onto the dual carriage way.
Noisy and fast, refuge in the central reservation, a hop, skip and a jump and turn off back into a peaceful lane.
Strong headwind, head down, keep to the beat of the music.
Up again, up again, up again.
I can do it, I can do it, I can do it.
I did it!
Downhill all the way home.
Sprint finish?
Oh yes 8)
Tuesday 14 August 2012
Nearly There
First of all I must congratulate my running buddy Ali, whilst on my holiday she ran the furthest she has ever run without stopping, a massive 6+ K, very well done to you, you clever girl. Such an achievement and proof that to keep trying does bring results.
Today we completed our penultimate leg of the Taunton to Bridgwater canal and we celebrated with an ice cold diet coke at the Boat and Anchor Inn. On Saturday we shall hopefully complete the final stretch, taking us into Bridgwater and the docks and then we shall plan when we are going to do our whole half in one hit. I'm really looking forward to this.
I received an email yesterday from the organizers of the annual Taunton 10K. To my delight (I think) it is taking place on Sunday 30th September. I incorrectly presumed it would be the day after my eldest son's wedding and therefore thought I would not be able to take part, on account of the champagne I plan to be drinking at said wedding! I didn't reply to the email straight away but after my run with Ali I came home and filled inthe application form, paid my dues and hit the send button before second thoughts had chance to set in.
Best get training then, which neatly coincides with a need to loose about a stone before the wedding, after all I have an absolutely gorgeous bespoke hat in the making and I have to do it justice!
Today we completed our penultimate leg of the Taunton to Bridgwater canal and we celebrated with an ice cold diet coke at the Boat and Anchor Inn. On Saturday we shall hopefully complete the final stretch, taking us into Bridgwater and the docks and then we shall plan when we are going to do our whole half in one hit. I'm really looking forward to this.
I received an email yesterday from the organizers of the annual Taunton 10K. To my delight (I think) it is taking place on Sunday 30th September. I incorrectly presumed it would be the day after my eldest son's wedding and therefore thought I would not be able to take part, on account of the champagne I plan to be drinking at said wedding! I didn't reply to the email straight away but after my run with Ali I came home and filled inthe application form, paid my dues and hit the send button before second thoughts had chance to set in.
Best get training then, which neatly coincides with a need to loose about a stone before the wedding, after all I have an absolutely gorgeous bespoke hat in the making and I have to do it justice!
Monday 13 August 2012
Breast stroke, back stroke, butterfly and crawl...
Running, walking, swimming, buggy riding, jet skiing, paraflying yes I did them all!
I've just returned from two weeks in gloriously hot sunshine in Cyprus. Apart from the traveling time, 4.5 hrs out and 5 back, plus the hour to and from the airports it was a blissfully relaxing fortnight.
We treated ourselves to an adult only hotel, with a premium room and extra large balcony with sun beds overlooking a fabulous horse shoe bay of sand and clear blue warm sea, perfect. Half board meant too much food of course but I did pack my trainers and was determined to run. I did. Twice.
The first attempt was at 7 a.m. one morning, the temperature was already 26 degrees. I completed the almost 3K on the coast path into Agia Napa fairly quickly and was very happy with my efforts, the return journey though became very hard work, the sun was on my back and it was very slightly uphill and I did not run the whole way. For my second attempt I set out much nearer to 6 a.m. It was slightly cooler, again I ran the whole way into the harbour but at a slower pace which allowed me to run more on the way back, only slowing to drink a few times.
Two runs in a fortnight isn't very good going at all so I'm trying to justify the amount of food I consumed with the other activities I took part in!
We walked, a lot, in searing temperatures, into Agia Napa several times, to beaches on either side of ours and only got lost once. We swam every day of course, usually twice in the sea and in the pool. Steve took part in the water polo and volley ball in the pool most days, I would have loved to join in but getting water in my ear is not an option so I watched from the sidelines. We hired a buggy and drove to the border of the Turkish occupied part of Cyprus. We both sunburnt our legs on that trip.
Very daringly, we plucked up courage to take a paraflying trip. Those of you that know me will also know that I cannot do boats. We planned to be the first customers and kept our fingers crossed that we wouldn't have to share the speedboat with others. We were strapped in and away we went, up, up, up. The view was amazing, it was quiet and peaceful and all was well until Steve mentioned the creaking of the straps holding us to the parachute! A gentle dunking preceded a perfect and graceful landing back onto the speedboat.
Next, jet skiing. I knew Steve was quite desperate to have a go. I wasn't. I do not like being in deep water and the thought of being out there on something so small not to mention the whole water moving part of the experience, you'll forgive me for feeling just a little apprehensive! Our first trip, yes first, was awesome. We got soaked and I don't know why but I wasn't upset by the movement. It was exhilarating, energizing and something I was more than happy to do again the following day. This activity will not taking part in English waters you understand and I doubt I'll ever go out again if I come off!
I've just returned from two weeks in gloriously hot sunshine in Cyprus. Apart from the traveling time, 4.5 hrs out and 5 back, plus the hour to and from the airports it was a blissfully relaxing fortnight.
We treated ourselves to an adult only hotel, with a premium room and extra large balcony with sun beds overlooking a fabulous horse shoe bay of sand and clear blue warm sea, perfect. Half board meant too much food of course but I did pack my trainers and was determined to run. I did. Twice.
The first attempt was at 7 a.m. one morning, the temperature was already 26 degrees. I completed the almost 3K on the coast path into Agia Napa fairly quickly and was very happy with my efforts, the return journey though became very hard work, the sun was on my back and it was very slightly uphill and I did not run the whole way. For my second attempt I set out much nearer to 6 a.m. It was slightly cooler, again I ran the whole way into the harbour but at a slower pace which allowed me to run more on the way back, only slowing to drink a few times.
Two runs in a fortnight isn't very good going at all so I'm trying to justify the amount of food I consumed with the other activities I took part in!
We walked, a lot, in searing temperatures, into Agia Napa several times, to beaches on either side of ours and only got lost once. We swam every day of course, usually twice in the sea and in the pool. Steve took part in the water polo and volley ball in the pool most days, I would have loved to join in but getting water in my ear is not an option so I watched from the sidelines. We hired a buggy and drove to the border of the Turkish occupied part of Cyprus. We both sunburnt our legs on that trip.
Very daringly, we plucked up courage to take a paraflying trip. Those of you that know me will also know that I cannot do boats. We planned to be the first customers and kept our fingers crossed that we wouldn't have to share the speedboat with others. We were strapped in and away we went, up, up, up. The view was amazing, it was quiet and peaceful and all was well until Steve mentioned the creaking of the straps holding us to the parachute! A gentle dunking preceded a perfect and graceful landing back onto the speedboat.
Next, jet skiing. I knew Steve was quite desperate to have a go. I wasn't. I do not like being in deep water and the thought of being out there on something so small not to mention the whole water moving part of the experience, you'll forgive me for feeling just a little apprehensive! Our first trip, yes first, was awesome. We got soaked and I don't know why but I wasn't upset by the movement. It was exhilarating, energizing and something I was more than happy to do again the following day. This activity will not taking part in English waters you understand and I doubt I'll ever go out again if I come off!
Tuesday 24 July 2012
Somewhere Else
No sparks flying from my heels today.
I went out early so it would be cooler - it wasn't.
I downloaded Razorlight to my new ipod hoping it would help - it didn't.
I ran slowly in the hope I could run all the way - I couldn't.
I really really wish I was somewhere else.
Cyprus would be good.
I went out early so it would be cooler - it wasn't.
I downloaded Razorlight to my new ipod hoping it would help - it didn't.
I ran slowly in the hope I could run all the way - I couldn't.
I really really wish I was somewhere else.
Cyprus would be good.
Monday 23 July 2012
Mad Dogs & Englishmen...
... and Tina and Lyn go out in the midday sun!
It was nearer 2.30 to be precise, but the temperature, as measured by Tina's car on her arrival at my house, registered 26 degrees Celsius. Tina didn't suggest that maybe it was a little too hot for running and neither did I. We are both holidaying in the kind of places that requires the removal of clothing (not all of it) and although I can't see where Tina needs to lose weight from my extra padding is very noticeable.
We set off at a good pace, probably a little slow for Tina but good for me. My left knee kept giving a sharp pain, not something I've noticed before and thankfully it eased off. Fortunately the hedges are high and we were able to run in the shade quite a bit of the way. The hills today well and truly beat me, I couldn't even try I'm ashamed to say.
Whilst catching up on our family news, both our eldest sons have weddings coming up, we soon made it to half way around a particularly favourite route of mine. Uphill for the first half means downhill just about all the way home and the icing on the cake, through the woods on a lovely spongy track. It was good, but still too hot for me and i felt like there was no fuel in the tank and my legs were like lead. Tina loves running in the heat but for me I'm a cooler weather girl and in fact seem to get any PBs in the rain.
I have decided to take my trainers on holiday, but where we are going is going to be very hot, I hope the gym at the hotel is air conditioned! I'm really hoping to get up early and run along the beaches and coastal paths. Like today, there may be quite a bit of walking happening!
We plan to run again on Friday, so that it doesn't become FRYday we are heading out first thing in the morning. I really hope I can perform better than I did today!
Enjoy the sunshine x
It was nearer 2.30 to be precise, but the temperature, as measured by Tina's car on her arrival at my house, registered 26 degrees Celsius. Tina didn't suggest that maybe it was a little too hot for running and neither did I. We are both holidaying in the kind of places that requires the removal of clothing (not all of it) and although I can't see where Tina needs to lose weight from my extra padding is very noticeable.
We set off at a good pace, probably a little slow for Tina but good for me. My left knee kept giving a sharp pain, not something I've noticed before and thankfully it eased off. Fortunately the hedges are high and we were able to run in the shade quite a bit of the way. The hills today well and truly beat me, I couldn't even try I'm ashamed to say.
Whilst catching up on our family news, both our eldest sons have weddings coming up, we soon made it to half way around a particularly favourite route of mine. Uphill for the first half means downhill just about all the way home and the icing on the cake, through the woods on a lovely spongy track. It was good, but still too hot for me and i felt like there was no fuel in the tank and my legs were like lead. Tina loves running in the heat but for me I'm a cooler weather girl and in fact seem to get any PBs in the rain.
I have decided to take my trainers on holiday, but where we are going is going to be very hot, I hope the gym at the hotel is air conditioned! I'm really hoping to get up early and run along the beaches and coastal paths. Like today, there may be quite a bit of walking happening!
We plan to run again on Friday, so that it doesn't become FRYday we are heading out first thing in the morning. I really hope I can perform better than I did today!
Enjoy the sunshine x
Sunday 22 July 2012
Like a Virgin!
Well, it's been so long I thought I might have forgotten how to do it!
Fortunately this is not the case. I can still run.
The past month has been so busy. Ends of term are always busy but the end of the summer term is especially busy, mine was so busy that although I am now on the glorious summer holiday I do actually have to go into work at some point as I did not complete all of the tasks that I need to do in order to start the new term as I wish.
More excitingly, we've had visitors, very special visitors. My best friend from school days, who now lives with her family in New Zealand came to stay. Believe me real hugs are so much better than virtual hugs. Social media is a magnificent invention but when Rachel, Arthur, Megan and Callum arrived my heart skipped a beat and those hugs (I even got one from my godson) were truly magical. We had a great time with them and have hopefully made plans to go out and visit them next Christmas.
So will you forgive me for abandoning my running and my blog? I do hope so. I was a little worried about getting back out there but all my clothes have shrunk and I'm not buying bigger ones.
Regulars will know that Ali (who writes her own excellent blog under the name Poppyseed65) and I are running the Taunton-Bridgwater canal in stages. We really exceeded our expectations this morning and completed just over 10k. Today's stretch started at Maunsel Lock and took us to about 2 miles short of The Boat & Anchor, any regulars using the M5 south bound will possibly have noticed this establishment due to its huge white letters emblazoned across its roof advertising its hospitality. For the first time during our canal runs two canal boats were using a lock, we took a few minutes to stop and watch and couldn't quite work out how it was working as we just couldn't see how the boat was going to get down to the lower water level section, and then we realised the boats were going in the other direction!
Upon our return to Maunsel Lock we couldn't believe the number of people that were there enjoying the sunshine. We treated ourselves to a sandwich from the excellent cafe and were joined by about 15 cyclists. Now we were feeling very pleased with ourselves and our lengthy run only to be dashed by a cyclist telling us that not only had they cycled from Yeovil (more than 25 miles away) but they had come via The Quantock Hills, not in the direction of Yeovil at all and that by the time they get back home they are expecting to have clocked up 60+. Oh well, we're still happy.
Unfortunately we couldn't stay for the duck race but how wonderful that finally summer has arrived and that all those people walking, cycling, running and just enjoying the area this morning could do so without coats and brollies etc. Long live the summer.
See you soon x
Fortunately this is not the case. I can still run.
The past month has been so busy. Ends of term are always busy but the end of the summer term is especially busy, mine was so busy that although I am now on the glorious summer holiday I do actually have to go into work at some point as I did not complete all of the tasks that I need to do in order to start the new term as I wish.
More excitingly, we've had visitors, very special visitors. My best friend from school days, who now lives with her family in New Zealand came to stay. Believe me real hugs are so much better than virtual hugs. Social media is a magnificent invention but when Rachel, Arthur, Megan and Callum arrived my heart skipped a beat and those hugs (I even got one from my godson) were truly magical. We had a great time with them and have hopefully made plans to go out and visit them next Christmas.
So will you forgive me for abandoning my running and my blog? I do hope so. I was a little worried about getting back out there but all my clothes have shrunk and I'm not buying bigger ones.
Regulars will know that Ali (who writes her own excellent blog under the name Poppyseed65) and I are running the Taunton-Bridgwater canal in stages. We really exceeded our expectations this morning and completed just over 10k. Today's stretch started at Maunsel Lock and took us to about 2 miles short of The Boat & Anchor, any regulars using the M5 south bound will possibly have noticed this establishment due to its huge white letters emblazoned across its roof advertising its hospitality. For the first time during our canal runs two canal boats were using a lock, we took a few minutes to stop and watch and couldn't quite work out how it was working as we just couldn't see how the boat was going to get down to the lower water level section, and then we realised the boats were going in the other direction!
Upon our return to Maunsel Lock we couldn't believe the number of people that were there enjoying the sunshine. We treated ourselves to a sandwich from the excellent cafe and were joined by about 15 cyclists. Now we were feeling very pleased with ourselves and our lengthy run only to be dashed by a cyclist telling us that not only had they cycled from Yeovil (more than 25 miles away) but they had come via The Quantock Hills, not in the direction of Yeovil at all and that by the time they get back home they are expecting to have clocked up 60+. Oh well, we're still happy.
Unfortunately we couldn't stay for the duck race but how wonderful that finally summer has arrived and that all those people walking, cycling, running and just enjoying the area this morning could do so without coats and brollies etc. Long live the summer.
See you soon x
Sunday 24 June 2012
New Tyres
After many miles of mud, hills, rain and blood sweat and tears it is time to say goodbye to my faithful friends. But I still don't think I can bring myself to put them in the bin 8(
As you might know, Ali and I run together every other Saturday and yesterday's run took place on a treadmill at Iron Bridge Runner in Exeter, in the window of all places! We were attended to by two very helpful young men. Our running gait was filmed and analyzed. I land with a straight leg apparently, which is good, so I was very chuffed. Easy choice for me then, a brand new pair of Asics, that'll be £100 please, job done!
Ali's current trainers were not helping her gait at all so after analysis different types of trainers were tried until she found the right pair. Hopefully, Ali's new tyres will help her knee problem. Both of our new trainers have go faster stripes but unfortunately they were all out of turbo boost footwear.
OK, so we didn't do much of a run yesterday but we did amble about the shops trying on hats and ogling handbags. We did have a scrumptious lunch of fish finger sandwiches with fries accompanied by a perfectly chilled bottle of Chenin Blanc. We did converse with the swans, geese and pigeons on the waterfront and enjoyed a sneaky ice cream. We did help Cath Kidston's retirement fund by buying some sale items and we finished the day with a hot chocolate at Starbucks before catching the train home.
All in all a perfect day out.
I really should road test my new trainers, but I don't want to get them dirty. Maybe tomorrow...
Tuesday 19 June 2012
Road Closed
I live on the edge of the vale of Taunton. If I run towards the town I have a fairly flat run. If I run in any other direction I encounter hills, big ones. One hill in particular has long held my desire to run from the top all the way home. However, this stretch of road can have fast moving traffic, is windy in places and narrows enough to allow two vehicles to pass, if they both breathe in.
I had been planning to get my better half to drop me off at the top very early one summer morning in the hope of being ahead of the commuter rush. At the weekend our lovely sons and almost daughter in law treated us to Sunday lunch at our favourite pub which required us to travel along this said route and I was delighted to discover the road is closed this week due to some serious subsidence needing attention. If I didn't do the run now it would be highly unlikely that I would have the chance to do so in relative safety ever again.
When I got up this morning I felt I could run forever, work had to be done first though. Once home I was starving and the sun was hot so I figured I had better eat first and run later. I'm not sure I got that choice right but I enjoyed making a smoked haddock risotto and enjoyed eating it even more. I had to set out a little earlier than I would have liked as I knew I wouldn't manage the whole way there and back from home and my son was going out so it was trainers on and he dropped me 3.24 km from the top of the hill.
The temperature when I started was a very warm 18 degrees, fortunately I was running on the shady side of the road but it wasn't long before I was walking. That hill is steep! Although it was hard, the reward for running in the middle of a road away from the blessed camber, no traffic except for a tractor and trailer and forestry commission truck, glorious weather and magnificent view was priceless. The banter from the farmer and forester kept me running on up determined to run as much as I could and then I reached the top and my long held dream was about to begin.
After a good slurp of water I was off, picking up speed, although still warm I could feel a slight breeze on my hot sticky face and the view unfurled before me as I sped past the workers giving a wave in return for there unheard comments. I loved every minute, every step, every gasp all the way to the bottom. A slight incline slowed me right down and the undulating road kept me alternating between walking and running. I passed the evening drinkers in the pub garden soaking up the rays. I swapped sides of the road on the bends, traffic now but thankfully quiet, running out of steam, got to keep going, getting closer to home. Passing through Thurlbear I hear a car slowing at my side and a voice calls "Fancy a lift?",
"Don't tempt me!" I answer my husband!
I run the last mile and a half hoping he has a big glass of water waiting for me. He did.
To top it all, please notice the photo of my socked foot. This must prove I am a real runner surely?
I had been planning to get my better half to drop me off at the top very early one summer morning in the hope of being ahead of the commuter rush. At the weekend our lovely sons and almost daughter in law treated us to Sunday lunch at our favourite pub which required us to travel along this said route and I was delighted to discover the road is closed this week due to some serious subsidence needing attention. If I didn't do the run now it would be highly unlikely that I would have the chance to do so in relative safety ever again.
When I got up this morning I felt I could run forever, work had to be done first though. Once home I was starving and the sun was hot so I figured I had better eat first and run later. I'm not sure I got that choice right but I enjoyed making a smoked haddock risotto and enjoyed eating it even more. I had to set out a little earlier than I would have liked as I knew I wouldn't manage the whole way there and back from home and my son was going out so it was trainers on and he dropped me 3.24 km from the top of the hill.
The temperature when I started was a very warm 18 degrees, fortunately I was running on the shady side of the road but it wasn't long before I was walking. That hill is steep! Although it was hard, the reward for running in the middle of a road away from the blessed camber, no traffic except for a tractor and trailer and forestry commission truck, glorious weather and magnificent view was priceless. The banter from the farmer and forester kept me running on up determined to run as much as I could and then I reached the top and my long held dream was about to begin.
After a good slurp of water I was off, picking up speed, although still warm I could feel a slight breeze on my hot sticky face and the view unfurled before me as I sped past the workers giving a wave in return for there unheard comments. I loved every minute, every step, every gasp all the way to the bottom. A slight incline slowed me right down and the undulating road kept me alternating between walking and running. I passed the evening drinkers in the pub garden soaking up the rays. I swapped sides of the road on the bends, traffic now but thankfully quiet, running out of steam, got to keep going, getting closer to home. Passing through Thurlbear I hear a car slowing at my side and a voice calls "Fancy a lift?",
"Don't tempt me!" I answer my husband!
I run the last mile and a half hoping he has a big glass of water waiting for me. He did.
To top it all, please notice the photo of my socked foot. This must prove I am a real runner surely?
Sunday 17 June 2012
Scampi & Chips...
is very bad for you!
Sometimes these cravings have to be catered for and enjoyed.
So it was that this morning found me heading to pick up Ali with a very fuzzy head. Not only is the aforementioned meal full of calories and very bad for your heart the coating on the scampi is full of gluten and my head was not playing ball at all.
We headed off to Maunsel Lock, our next stop on the Taunton to Bridgwater Canal. Several times I could not think which way we had to go and I turned off before we needed to resulting in a quick turn around before getting the correct lane - the one sign posted! Could I find the car park? No, and I was concerned that we were getting further and further away from where we had run to last time!
Eventually we parked up and decided we would set off and see what we could manage. I was really really not in a running mood and had woken hoping to hear the sound of the predicted worse storm for 50 years. No idea where that had landed but it wasn't Somerset. We had beautiful glorious sunshine and at that hour no rain at all. Ali didn't feel on top form either and she was concerned about her knee and ankle.
For the first couple of kilometers I was finding it very hard to talk, I just couldn't find the words I needed but then taking in the beautiful scenery out over the Somerset Levels - and believe me if you have not been along this stretch of Somerset you should - the wide blue sky, the gentle sleepy cows and their babies and the very busy swan tidying her nest I began to feel better. Ali kindly suggested I run on for a bit, this is not something I usually choose to do but I somehow knew it would really help to clear my head.
Just around the bend two enormous barking dogs on the opposite bank were making their presence known, I avoided eye contact and hoped and prayed I would not hear a splash. I did not! I waited at the next bridge for Ali, she determinedly caught me and made it to the top of the steep slope. She told me that my being ahead had given her a new competitiveness and had made her run faster so perhaps we have ourselves a new running strategy. I don't think it will be long before I am chasing Ali!
We delightedly made it to Swan's Neck Bridge, our stopping point on our previous canal run. We took a brief breather to look out over the fields, the colours so rich, the sun so warming and bright before turning to head back. We walked a little, jogged a little and ran a little. We saw Mr Swan quite a way from his wife and watched as he glided so beautifully, pushing lazily with one foot then the other towards his home and waiting lady. We told her not to be cross if he was late returning as he had helped us to relax and to enjoy the beauty of the nature all around us.
Taunton to Maunsel Lock is 12.6 km. Today we managed almost 7.5 of them. Next we plan to run the whole 12.6, I know we can do it. Next Saturday we are spending the day in Exeter, catching the train so we can enjoy a glass or two at lunchtime. The purpose of this trip is to have our running gait analyzed and for us to purchase new trainers. Maybe we wont do the long run in our new trainers, perhaps we should break them in first!
I will let you know how we get on 8)
Sometimes these cravings have to be catered for and enjoyed.
So it was that this morning found me heading to pick up Ali with a very fuzzy head. Not only is the aforementioned meal full of calories and very bad for your heart the coating on the scampi is full of gluten and my head was not playing ball at all.
We headed off to Maunsel Lock, our next stop on the Taunton to Bridgwater Canal. Several times I could not think which way we had to go and I turned off before we needed to resulting in a quick turn around before getting the correct lane - the one sign posted! Could I find the car park? No, and I was concerned that we were getting further and further away from where we had run to last time!
Eventually we parked up and decided we would set off and see what we could manage. I was really really not in a running mood and had woken hoping to hear the sound of the predicted worse storm for 50 years. No idea where that had landed but it wasn't Somerset. We had beautiful glorious sunshine and at that hour no rain at all. Ali didn't feel on top form either and she was concerned about her knee and ankle.
For the first couple of kilometers I was finding it very hard to talk, I just couldn't find the words I needed but then taking in the beautiful scenery out over the Somerset Levels - and believe me if you have not been along this stretch of Somerset you should - the wide blue sky, the gentle sleepy cows and their babies and the very busy swan tidying her nest I began to feel better. Ali kindly suggested I run on for a bit, this is not something I usually choose to do but I somehow knew it would really help to clear my head.
Just around the bend two enormous barking dogs on the opposite bank were making their presence known, I avoided eye contact and hoped and prayed I would not hear a splash. I did not! I waited at the next bridge for Ali, she determinedly caught me and made it to the top of the steep slope. She told me that my being ahead had given her a new competitiveness and had made her run faster so perhaps we have ourselves a new running strategy. I don't think it will be long before I am chasing Ali!
We delightedly made it to Swan's Neck Bridge, our stopping point on our previous canal run. We took a brief breather to look out over the fields, the colours so rich, the sun so warming and bright before turning to head back. We walked a little, jogged a little and ran a little. We saw Mr Swan quite a way from his wife and watched as he glided so beautifully, pushing lazily with one foot then the other towards his home and waiting lady. We told her not to be cross if he was late returning as he had helped us to relax and to enjoy the beauty of the nature all around us.
Taunton to Maunsel Lock is 12.6 km. Today we managed almost 7.5 of them. Next we plan to run the whole 12.6, I know we can do it. Next Saturday we are spending the day in Exeter, catching the train so we can enjoy a glass or two at lunchtime. The purpose of this trip is to have our running gait analyzed and for us to purchase new trainers. Maybe we wont do the long run in our new trainers, perhaps we should break them in first!
I will let you know how we get on 8)
Thursday 14 June 2012
Is it true?
Goodness gracious me. When I wrote my last post, somehow, and I still don't quite know how, I opened a page full of amazing and unbelievable statistics with regards to the number of viewers to my blog. They weren't just from the UK either. I still can't quite believe that this is true. My gast has been truly flabbered!
More importantly it has given me a new motivation for writing and more importantly running.
Today Gill and I ran after work, fortunately the rain held off and we did our usual almost 6K route. It was hard and we did walk a bit but we did it. I'm disappointed that my running has been a bit sluggish this past week as I even managed to run twice when I was away on holiday last week, getting up at 6.30 no less! It had to be done as I intended to buy my outfit for my eldest son's wedding, I achieved 3/4 of the ensemble and just have the hat to go.
So, I love my dress and I will have to run for England between now and September to ensure it looks good!
If my viewing stats are correct I thank you all for reading.
My next run is scheduled for Sunday with Ali. I shall report in and let you know how it goes.
Until then x
More importantly it has given me a new motivation for writing and more importantly running.
Today Gill and I ran after work, fortunately the rain held off and we did our usual almost 6K route. It was hard and we did walk a bit but we did it. I'm disappointed that my running has been a bit sluggish this past week as I even managed to run twice when I was away on holiday last week, getting up at 6.30 no less! It had to be done as I intended to buy my outfit for my eldest son's wedding, I achieved 3/4 of the ensemble and just have the hat to go.
So, I love my dress and I will have to run for England between now and September to ensure it looks good!
If my viewing stats are correct I thank you all for reading.
My next run is scheduled for Sunday with Ali. I shall report in and let you know how it goes.
Until then x
Monday 11 June 2012
The Devil's Own Job
When something is in your head and you can't get it out, it ruins everything.
That's all.
That's all.
Tuesday 22 May 2012
Worst Run Ever!
My run today was possibly the worst run I have ever done
Wearing high wedge sandals to work just because I had a pedicure yesterday = Sore legs right from the beginning.
Deciding to run on the hottest day of the year = Very hard work right from the start, hot weather has to be the worst kind of running weather for me.
Choosing a longish run on a day I'm weary = Even before half way round I was wishing I was at home.
Liking circular and new routes I had to complete a stretch along a busy main road and the verge hadn't been cut = I had to walk as the grass/nettles/weeds were knee deep and difficult to wade through and my legs have been stung to bits.
Diverting my route along a footpath through a field to get away from the road = severe cuts to my ankles trying to navigate my way alongside a shoulder deep crop, no visible path and getting well caught up in very sharp and unforgiving goose grass.
My 8.5 k took far too long and although the sky was the most magnificent blue and the trees a very vibrant green I did not enjoy this outing.
I do have one positive, I saved a slow worm from certain death!
Wearing high wedge sandals to work just because I had a pedicure yesterday = Sore legs right from the beginning.
Deciding to run on the hottest day of the year = Very hard work right from the start, hot weather has to be the worst kind of running weather for me.
Choosing a longish run on a day I'm weary = Even before half way round I was wishing I was at home.
Liking circular and new routes I had to complete a stretch along a busy main road and the verge hadn't been cut = I had to walk as the grass/nettles/weeds were knee deep and difficult to wade through and my legs have been stung to bits.
Diverting my route along a footpath through a field to get away from the road = severe cuts to my ankles trying to navigate my way alongside a shoulder deep crop, no visible path and getting well caught up in very sharp and unforgiving goose grass.
My 8.5 k took far too long and although the sky was the most magnificent blue and the trees a very vibrant green I did not enjoy this outing.
I do have one positive, I saved a slow worm from certain death!
Sunday 6 May 2012
Dance today - tomorrow might be too late
I had a great night out on Friday, T, D, Fi and Me were joined by Vicky and Michaela for an evening of food and wine and not much dancing!
I was getting in the mood with some good 80s tracks on youtube and decided my dancing around the kitchen would be better enhanced by opening a rather fine bottle of white at around 6 p.m. This could possibly have been my downfall.
At around 7 p.m. D's husband was showing me a good running route on his map, I told him I couldn't really see the map and he refilled my empty glass. This could possibly have been my downfall.
8 p.m. we were all sat having a fine time, company great, food not so great and Michaela and I, apparently are going to do the London marathon. The waiter kept refilling my glass, this could possibly have been my downfall.
I wanted to go dancing, but I had no luck with these friends, not even the usually dependable Fi was up for dancing. Brazz however did have a mighty fine bottle of Prosecco. This could possibly have been my downfall.
The Cosy Club had music, but me the deaf one, couldn't hear it. Oh well the fizz was good. Perhaps this bottle was my downfall.
Back to Brazz, shut, what has happened to Taunton, nowhere open, nobody out, apart from the street pastors. Cafe mamba, ah now we're talking, music, T danced, momentarily, but this really wasn't a good enough effort I have to say. I tell my friends they will be very sorry they didn't dance with me and to imagine how they will feel if I'm dead tomorrow. Don't worry D tells me, we'll all dance at your funeral, cheers mates! A bottle of Blue Nun disguised in a bottle of, well something that shouldn't have been that bad was probably my downfall.
Back to D's to finish the earlier opened bottle and to wait for my lift. I texted him, no reply. I rang him - ah success - and then I rang him again as he had fallen back to sleep.
I think it was about 2.30 a.m. that I made a call on the big white telephone. I think it was about 3.00 p.m. that I eventually managed to dress and face the big scary downstairs and took sanctuary on the sofa! There would be no running, just getting upright was hard enough.
Which brings us to Sunday. I feel great, I met Ali and we did a gentle 7 KM run along the canal. It was flat, easy going and in gentle morning sunshine. I feel great and it's good to be alive.
I shall dance everyday and on my own if I have to but I do recommend that you join in!
I was getting in the mood with some good 80s tracks on youtube and decided my dancing around the kitchen would be better enhanced by opening a rather fine bottle of white at around 6 p.m. This could possibly have been my downfall.
At around 7 p.m. D's husband was showing me a good running route on his map, I told him I couldn't really see the map and he refilled my empty glass. This could possibly have been my downfall.
8 p.m. we were all sat having a fine time, company great, food not so great and Michaela and I, apparently are going to do the London marathon. The waiter kept refilling my glass, this could possibly have been my downfall.
I wanted to go dancing, but I had no luck with these friends, not even the usually dependable Fi was up for dancing. Brazz however did have a mighty fine bottle of Prosecco. This could possibly have been my downfall.
The Cosy Club had music, but me the deaf one, couldn't hear it. Oh well the fizz was good. Perhaps this bottle was my downfall.
Back to Brazz, shut, what has happened to Taunton, nowhere open, nobody out, apart from the street pastors. Cafe mamba, ah now we're talking, music, T danced, momentarily, but this really wasn't a good enough effort I have to say. I tell my friends they will be very sorry they didn't dance with me and to imagine how they will feel if I'm dead tomorrow. Don't worry D tells me, we'll all dance at your funeral, cheers mates! A bottle of Blue Nun disguised in a bottle of, well something that shouldn't have been that bad was probably my downfall.
Back to D's to finish the earlier opened bottle and to wait for my lift. I texted him, no reply. I rang him - ah success - and then I rang him again as he had fallen back to sleep.
I think it was about 2.30 a.m. that I made a call on the big white telephone. I think it was about 3.00 p.m. that I eventually managed to dress and face the big scary downstairs and took sanctuary on the sofa! There would be no running, just getting upright was hard enough.
Which brings us to Sunday. I feel great, I met Ali and we did a gentle 7 KM run along the canal. It was flat, easy going and in gentle morning sunshine. I feel great and it's good to be alive.
I shall dance everyday and on my own if I have to but I do recommend that you join in!
Tuesday 1 May 2012
Out came the sun
And dried up all the rain, apart from the many large muddy puddles that required careful hopping, skipping and jumping over and around.
Today's run was hot and hard, the glorious sunshine made the temperature gauge in my car register a whopping 18.5 when I left work half an hour before I put my trainers on. No jacket or hat required just me and my ipod.
My legs felt like lead, there didn't feel like there was much fuel in the tank and my left knee was giving me jip. Those short burst hill climbs on Sunday probably explained the heavy feeling. My May challenge to eat more fruit and drink more water may have accounted to the lower energy levels as I have been very careful about what I have eaten today. Yesterday had not been a good day on the food front. I had indulged in chocolate cake and fish and chips both of which contained my enemy gluten. All tasted delicious but I knew they would sap my energy resources and they did. The knee pain was definitely a result of wearing high heels to work, I'll be back to flats tomorrow!
All in all I don't like running in hot sunshine, I'm almost wishing it would rain...
Today's run was hot and hard, the glorious sunshine made the temperature gauge in my car register a whopping 18.5 when I left work half an hour before I put my trainers on. No jacket or hat required just me and my ipod.
My legs felt like lead, there didn't feel like there was much fuel in the tank and my left knee was giving me jip. Those short burst hill climbs on Sunday probably explained the heavy feeling. My May challenge to eat more fruit and drink more water may have accounted to the lower energy levels as I have been very careful about what I have eaten today. Yesterday had not been a good day on the food front. I had indulged in chocolate cake and fish and chips both of which contained my enemy gluten. All tasted delicious but I knew they would sap my energy resources and they did. The knee pain was definitely a result of wearing high heels to work, I'll be back to flats tomorrow!
All in all I don't like running in hot sunshine, I'm almost wishing it would rain...
Sunday 29 April 2012
Achieving the challenge
My goal for April was to run at least every other day and today I have reached that goal.
You'll forgive my final run not being a proper run, but as the pictures below show our lane is ankle deep in water! I did set out in wellies to see how bad it was but as our lane was once a river bed you'll understand that I couldn't possibly allow my Nike+ chip to get that wet!
Instead I ran up and down our steep drive 20 times in pouring rain and for the third time this week got soaked to the skin. I'm not usually capable of running up the drive as this feat is always at the end of a run and something I usually find physically impossible, but today I had no choice. I started thinking I would try 10 climbs, then decided I could manage another 10 but that was enough, mainly because I was so cold. This did equate to 2.2 km so that would have to do.
My 15 runs in April have amounted to 90.41 km, which is 56.17 miles and has burned 5,929 calories.
Now for a new challenge...
You'll forgive my final run not being a proper run, but as the pictures below show our lane is ankle deep in water! I did set out in wellies to see how bad it was but as our lane was once a river bed you'll understand that I couldn't possibly allow my Nike+ chip to get that wet!
Instead I ran up and down our steep drive 20 times in pouring rain and for the third time this week got soaked to the skin. I'm not usually capable of running up the drive as this feat is always at the end of a run and something I usually find physically impossible, but today I had no choice. I started thinking I would try 10 climbs, then decided I could manage another 10 but that was enough, mainly because I was so cold. This did equate to 2.2 km so that would have to do.
My 15 runs in April have amounted to 90.41 km, which is 56.17 miles and has burned 5,929 calories.
Now for a new challenge...
Friday 27 April 2012
Wednesday 25 April 2012
Just like Schumacher
I'm better in the rain!
It's official, I knocked almost 4 minutes off my time for one of my 8K circular routes.
Not one to normally set out in rain, let alone pouring rain, I didn't have any choice today. My April goal is to run at least every other day and so far I'm on track. I duly arrived home from work determined to do the run whatever the weather threw at me, I took my time changing hoping the approaching slightly lighter patch of grey sky would be kind to me and between the deluges it was!
About a third of the way around I checked my ipod and was delighted with my time and pace. I was running at a steady pace having decided not to try and speed up as I had to concentrate extra hard on traffic whilst I ran around the puddles. Only one vehicle failed to slow down and they didn't avoid heading through the middle of a puddle either. I felt my shake of the fist was a fair exchange for the shower I received.
During the second third I was soaked through and the wind picked up, I was cold and my jacket was sticking to my arms. The home third was incredibly difficult. There was such a strong headwind which made me wonder if that was why when I was going the other way my time was so good, had it been pushing me along? I hadn't been aware of it if it had. I didn't walk, I kept my head down and willed my feet to keep moving. I was very happy to see home and thought of the lovely long hot shower I would soon be in.
Checking my stats I was delighted at my time and I am now wondering just how much more time I could have taken off had that headwind not been present.
So next time it's pouring with rain and my run is due, will I postpone?
Not on your nelly!
It's official, I knocked almost 4 minutes off my time for one of my 8K circular routes.
Not one to normally set out in rain, let alone pouring rain, I didn't have any choice today. My April goal is to run at least every other day and so far I'm on track. I duly arrived home from work determined to do the run whatever the weather threw at me, I took my time changing hoping the approaching slightly lighter patch of grey sky would be kind to me and between the deluges it was!
About a third of the way around I checked my ipod and was delighted with my time and pace. I was running at a steady pace having decided not to try and speed up as I had to concentrate extra hard on traffic whilst I ran around the puddles. Only one vehicle failed to slow down and they didn't avoid heading through the middle of a puddle either. I felt my shake of the fist was a fair exchange for the shower I received.
During the second third I was soaked through and the wind picked up, I was cold and my jacket was sticking to my arms. The home third was incredibly difficult. There was such a strong headwind which made me wonder if that was why when I was going the other way my time was so good, had it been pushing me along? I hadn't been aware of it if it had. I didn't walk, I kept my head down and willed my feet to keep moving. I was very happy to see home and thought of the lovely long hot shower I would soon be in.
Checking my stats I was delighted at my time and I am now wondering just how much more time I could have taken off had that headwind not been present.
So next time it's pouring with rain and my run is due, will I postpone?
Not on your nelly!
Sunday 22 April 2012
Inspiration
Today I have been watching the London Marathon. As usual I am full of intention to take part. As usual I am full of reasons why I can't. As usual I fully intend to break down these barriers and perhaps the time has come to actually put my fear s to rest.
So many people overcome their barriers and achieve this dream of mine, hopefully one day soon I will too.
One of my reasons for not taking part is that I really do not think that I could run that far. The furthest I have ever run is 11 km, which is 6.83 miles and I haven't done that for a long time. I do keep trying to go further but Meniere's usually gets in the way of my training, so maybe since Meniere's appears to be in a new phase and has been less intrusive on my life this year maybe this barrier has already been crossed.
I also have a fear of being on my own at the finish line. I actually don't mind how long it would take me to complete, but I would mind if all the crowd had gone home and the traffic had started to join me, that must happen at some point? Of course I would like to do it in a reasonable time. My current running schedule is focussing on trying to improve my times, I am managing to knock some seconds off and indeed this morning's run saw a route completed with a 1 minute and 6 second improvement. If I can just get over the intense nausea that occurs with this extra effort then perhaps this barrier is also being overcome.
A third fear is just how on earth do you get to the right place at the right time and how do you find your partner at the end and what happens if something happens to you along the way, how do you let people know where you are, where are the loos? See problems, problems! I suspect a look on the internet would help with sorting out all of these questions.
I'm going to break this huge conundrum down; I will not be taking part in the London marathon, nor any other marathon next year, but I am aiming to take part in the Taunton Marathon, I wonder if I need to apply yet? I wonder if my dream will come true before I hit 50...
A very big congratulations to each and every competitor in today's Marathon, I take my hat off to you all.
So many people overcome their barriers and achieve this dream of mine, hopefully one day soon I will too.
One of my reasons for not taking part is that I really do not think that I could run that far. The furthest I have ever run is 11 km, which is 6.83 miles and I haven't done that for a long time. I do keep trying to go further but Meniere's usually gets in the way of my training, so maybe since Meniere's appears to be in a new phase and has been less intrusive on my life this year maybe this barrier has already been crossed.
I also have a fear of being on my own at the finish line. I actually don't mind how long it would take me to complete, but I would mind if all the crowd had gone home and the traffic had started to join me, that must happen at some point? Of course I would like to do it in a reasonable time. My current running schedule is focussing on trying to improve my times, I am managing to knock some seconds off and indeed this morning's run saw a route completed with a 1 minute and 6 second improvement. If I can just get over the intense nausea that occurs with this extra effort then perhaps this barrier is also being overcome.
A third fear is just how on earth do you get to the right place at the right time and how do you find your partner at the end and what happens if something happens to you along the way, how do you let people know where you are, where are the loos? See problems, problems! I suspect a look on the internet would help with sorting out all of these questions.
I'm going to break this huge conundrum down; I will not be taking part in the London marathon, nor any other marathon next year, but I am aiming to take part in the Taunton Marathon, I wonder if I need to apply yet? I wonder if my dream will come true before I hit 50...
A very big congratulations to each and every competitor in today's Marathon, I take my hat off to you all.
Thursday 12 April 2012
Today...
...was possibly not going to be a good day.
But it did start well, I took 3 minutes off my time for a 7K route I did last week. What I don't understand is how can a route be shorter when done anti-clockwise as against run clockwise? Because of the side of the road you run, facing oncoming traffic, the anti-clockwise route must be further? Not according to my ipod and not by much but this is something that does baffle me!
But it did start well, I took 3 minutes off my time for a 7K route I did last week. What I don't understand is how can a route be shorter when done anti-clockwise as against run clockwise? Because of the side of the road you run, facing oncoming traffic, the anti-clockwise route must be further? Not according to my ipod and not by much but this is something that does baffle me!
Sunday 8 April 2012
Happy Easter
Cheese, ham, beef, crusty bread, butter, G & T, trio of pork, croquet potatoes, merlot, chocolate ice cream, bacon, poached egg, baked beans, mushrooms, toast, butter, marmalade, cheese, ham, chips, pinot grigio, chocolate ice cream, pinot grigio, trio of duck, strawberry ice cream, pinot grigio, bacon, poached egg, baked beans, mushrooms, toast, butter, marmalade, fish and chips, Easter egg = far too many calories during a lovely weekend spent with my better half at Brixham in Devon.
ipod, trainers, running kit, nike+ chip, music, lane, hill, lane, hill, woodland track, stream jump, lane, sprint finish, home, lots of water = the first of many runs taken this week in order to remove the excesses of the weekend!
Wednesday 4 April 2012
Slow, slow, quick, quick, slow
I did not want to get out of bed this morning, I wanted to finish the book I am reading. It was cold and wet and I felt tired. However, my current goal is to run every other day throughout April, so I gradually got myself ready until I could no longer delay going out of the door.
Last night I was thinking about how I am going to increase my running speed. I really do want to take part in the Taunton half marathon next year, or at least before I hit 50. I don't mind at all that if I find it possible to run the distance it will be in a fairly slow time, but I don't want to be so far at the back that all spectators have given up on waiting for me to cross the line and gone home.
Ali and I have discussed how we can achieve this and are open to suggestions. Obviously at some point you just have to push yourself and put more effort in but surely with the correct training you can build stamina and sustain the faster speed over distance? Whilst thinking about all this the phrase slow, slow, quick, quick, slow popped into my head therefore today's run was going to follow this pattern.
Lana Del Rey was very obliging and she picked up the tempo perfectly for track 3 and my pace quickened to a very pleasing 5:53 per km, I've no if that's good, it is for me. A slight downhill section helped keep me going through track 4 but I was delighted when track 5 started and I could return to my normal and much slower pace. Unfortunately all the effort for the resulting speed left me feeling very sick and I spent the rest of the 7k round trip feeling dreadfully sick. Unwell to the point of thinking oh heck I feel so bad I don't think I shall be able to make my lunch date today. I soldiered on and managed once more to pick up a little speed for the next 2 faster tracks, although nowhere near my original spurt. I ended up walking 2 very short barely uphill sections and am delighted to say I managed a sprint finish.
I eagerly fired up my Mac, plugged in my ipod and logged into Nike+ to upload the data. I also keep a chart myself and looked back at my times for this given route and was bitterly disappointed to discover that I had taken an extra three minutes to complete the route.
I will try again. I hope that eventually the faster running sections will get longer. Most of all I hope that I don't feel sick.
Last night I was thinking about how I am going to increase my running speed. I really do want to take part in the Taunton half marathon next year, or at least before I hit 50. I don't mind at all that if I find it possible to run the distance it will be in a fairly slow time, but I don't want to be so far at the back that all spectators have given up on waiting for me to cross the line and gone home.
Ali and I have discussed how we can achieve this and are open to suggestions. Obviously at some point you just have to push yourself and put more effort in but surely with the correct training you can build stamina and sustain the faster speed over distance? Whilst thinking about all this the phrase slow, slow, quick, quick, slow popped into my head therefore today's run was going to follow this pattern.
Lana Del Rey was very obliging and she picked up the tempo perfectly for track 3 and my pace quickened to a very pleasing 5:53 per km, I've no if that's good, it is for me. A slight downhill section helped keep me going through track 4 but I was delighted when track 5 started and I could return to my normal and much slower pace. Unfortunately all the effort for the resulting speed left me feeling very sick and I spent the rest of the 7k round trip feeling dreadfully sick. Unwell to the point of thinking oh heck I feel so bad I don't think I shall be able to make my lunch date today. I soldiered on and managed once more to pick up a little speed for the next 2 faster tracks, although nowhere near my original spurt. I ended up walking 2 very short barely uphill sections and am delighted to say I managed a sprint finish.
I eagerly fired up my Mac, plugged in my ipod and logged into Nike+ to upload the data. I also keep a chart myself and looked back at my times for this given route and was bitterly disappointed to discover that I had taken an extra three minutes to complete the route.
I will try again. I hope that eventually the faster running sections will get longer. Most of all I hope that I don't feel sick.
Monday 2 April 2012
Calculations, calibrations and counting calories
I had an acceptable ipod, it worked fine, it was getting a bit tricky to switch off but even though it was about 7 years old I didn't have any plans to upgrade it. Then it was brought to my attention (thank you Ali) that Apple were recalling certain ipods as some of the batteries were overheating. Luckily for me my serial number was accepted and after an uncertain wait of a few weeks I took delivery of a brand new and very pretty ipod.
This one is smaller and has a touch screen and I immediately went online to find myself a wrist strap to clip it onto. I had never manage to calibrate my old ipod and was determined this time to do so. Yesterday I measured one mile exactly in my car and treated myself to a very short run this morning. I have a new start/finish line at the bottom of my very steep drive and although I didn't want to run too hard I set off in beautiful sunshine and was soon at my stopping point where I discovered that I had done it wrong! Never mind I had to get home again and that would mean another mile.
My next run will be Wednesday morning, I haven't decided on my route yet but it will be interesting to see how far out my recordings pre calibration were.
I also decided that today is the first day of my get back on track diet. I have put on a solid stone, or maybe a wobbly one over the last couple of years and although I've always been a curvy girl I want to get back to how my size 10s were feeling then rather than how they feel now! I'm going to haver to keep myself busy, busy, busy!
This one is smaller and has a touch screen and I immediately went online to find myself a wrist strap to clip it onto. I had never manage to calibrate my old ipod and was determined this time to do so. Yesterday I measured one mile exactly in my car and treated myself to a very short run this morning. I have a new start/finish line at the bottom of my very steep drive and although I didn't want to run too hard I set off in beautiful sunshine and was soon at my stopping point where I discovered that I had done it wrong! Never mind I had to get home again and that would mean another mile.
My next run will be Wednesday morning, I haven't decided on my route yet but it will be interesting to see how far out my recordings pre calibration were.
I also decided that today is the first day of my get back on track diet. I have put on a solid stone, or maybe a wobbly one over the last couple of years and although I've always been a curvy girl I want to get back to how my size 10s were feeling then rather than how they feel now! I'm going to haver to keep myself busy, busy, busy!
Saturday 31 March 2012
Roger, over and out
Today's run has been in the planning for many months.
Sometime last year Ali and I registered with Park Run at Killerton in Devon. One thing after another prevented us from taking part but this year Ali started following a training program and she has really cracked this running lark. I have spent many a Saturday morning crawling out of bed to meet up with Ali in all winds and weathers to share her training sessions. She has steadily built her run/walk ratios and can now run steadily for 30 minutes.
We were going to Park Run a fortnight ago, but bad weather put us off as we knew part of the course was over grass and neither of us fancied taking a tumble. We rescheduled for this week, then had to cancel due to injury but then yesterday at work I was delighted to receive a text from Ali saying "Let's do it." So we did.
I was late leaving home, something to do with having to leave earlier than on a work day and it being the first day of my holiday! I collected Ali and she was very nervous. I had forgotten what a first race feels like and although I kept reassuring her that all would be fine she was indeed scared. We chatted nineteen to the dozen all the way there, just as we always do. On arrival we decided to get our bearings, find the loo, find the start and find the runners. Finding the loo was easy, looking for the start we found the finish and the runners were mostly running. Although real runners call this warming up we call it silly, we need to save our energy for the race after all 5K is a long way!
We made our way to almost the top of a steep rise to the start line and then we both got the collywobbles. I couldn't hear the girl giving instructions, we had no idea what to do with our registration codes and I couldn't even see which direction we were supposed to go in! Just as I was saying to Ali that I thought we ought to make our way a bit further back from the front we all took off.
Ali and I found our place at the back and followed at our own pace. The views were beautiful, the birds were singing and although it was cold, conditions were perfect. Ali was worrying me though, she was gasping for breath, I think the sudden start panicked her, we slowed down and I tried to take her mind off the running by prattling on about anything that popped into my head. We were blessed with a gentle downhill section and gradually Ali got into a comfortable pace and looking at our Nike+ details after we were actually going at a fair lick.
This trail was right up my street, comfortable under foot, great scenery, gentle ups and downs. We didn't find being at the back of the pack a bad place to be either. We were doing the run, we were going to finish the run, we weren't competing against anybody else, we were just enjoying it.
Everybody was brilliant, fellow runners happy to tell us what to do, where to go, the marshals were happy and chatty and Roger was especially encouraging. Roger was mine sweeper today and after about half way he joined us for a while with words of encouragement and tales of his running exploits. He didn't make us feel we should get a move on and when he stopped to close gates behind us he allowed us a few minutes to get ahead before rejoining us once more.
The best bit, the home run of course. I love to sprint finish, I love the buzz, I was worried that I wouldn't be able to contain myself and I really did intend to run with Ali for the whole race. I had mentioned to her about finishing with a sprint so as we got a bit nearer to the finish I suggested she should sprint, she did, first she went a bit quicker then a lot quicker and with me and Roger whooping and hollering behind we hammered down to the finish line!
We did it!
Well done Ali, I am so very very proud of you.
Thank you Roger, it was so lovely to meet you.
And now, we are officially on the Park Run results list, mentioned as first timers and have a time to beat!
http://www.parkrun.org.uk/killerton/results/latestresults
Until next time, over and out x
Sometime last year Ali and I registered with Park Run at Killerton in Devon. One thing after another prevented us from taking part but this year Ali started following a training program and she has really cracked this running lark. I have spent many a Saturday morning crawling out of bed to meet up with Ali in all winds and weathers to share her training sessions. She has steadily built her run/walk ratios and can now run steadily for 30 minutes.
We were going to Park Run a fortnight ago, but bad weather put us off as we knew part of the course was over grass and neither of us fancied taking a tumble. We rescheduled for this week, then had to cancel due to injury but then yesterday at work I was delighted to receive a text from Ali saying "Let's do it." So we did.
I was late leaving home, something to do with having to leave earlier than on a work day and it being the first day of my holiday! I collected Ali and she was very nervous. I had forgotten what a first race feels like and although I kept reassuring her that all would be fine she was indeed scared. We chatted nineteen to the dozen all the way there, just as we always do. On arrival we decided to get our bearings, find the loo, find the start and find the runners. Finding the loo was easy, looking for the start we found the finish and the runners were mostly running. Although real runners call this warming up we call it silly, we need to save our energy for the race after all 5K is a long way!
We made our way to almost the top of a steep rise to the start line and then we both got the collywobbles. I couldn't hear the girl giving instructions, we had no idea what to do with our registration codes and I couldn't even see which direction we were supposed to go in! Just as I was saying to Ali that I thought we ought to make our way a bit further back from the front we all took off.
Ali and I found our place at the back and followed at our own pace. The views were beautiful, the birds were singing and although it was cold, conditions were perfect. Ali was worrying me though, she was gasping for breath, I think the sudden start panicked her, we slowed down and I tried to take her mind off the running by prattling on about anything that popped into my head. We were blessed with a gentle downhill section and gradually Ali got into a comfortable pace and looking at our Nike+ details after we were actually going at a fair lick.
This trail was right up my street, comfortable under foot, great scenery, gentle ups and downs. We didn't find being at the back of the pack a bad place to be either. We were doing the run, we were going to finish the run, we weren't competing against anybody else, we were just enjoying it.
Everybody was brilliant, fellow runners happy to tell us what to do, where to go, the marshals were happy and chatty and Roger was especially encouraging. Roger was mine sweeper today and after about half way he joined us for a while with words of encouragement and tales of his running exploits. He didn't make us feel we should get a move on and when he stopped to close gates behind us he allowed us a few minutes to get ahead before rejoining us once more.
The best bit, the home run of course. I love to sprint finish, I love the buzz, I was worried that I wouldn't be able to contain myself and I really did intend to run with Ali for the whole race. I had mentioned to her about finishing with a sprint so as we got a bit nearer to the finish I suggested she should sprint, she did, first she went a bit quicker then a lot quicker and with me and Roger whooping and hollering behind we hammered down to the finish line!
We did it!
Well done Ali, I am so very very proud of you.
Thank you Roger, it was so lovely to meet you.
And now, we are officially on the Park Run results list, mentioned as first timers and have a time to beat!
http://www.parkrun.org.uk/killerton/results/latestresults
Until next time, over and out x
Tuesday 20 March 2012
All in a day...
06.00 - wide awake
08.30 - runny nose, splitting headache, aches and pains and almost texted Ali to cancel after work run but realised she wouldn't have her bike to get home!
12.15 - hungry, very hungry, nearly texted Ali to say forget the run tonight let's just go to The Harvester for scampi and chips, but didn't!
15.20 - schools out, thank goodness, I'm exhausted.
17.00 - went to collect Ali from work deliberately leaving purse at home and with every intention of telling her we would have to walk along the canal as I'm not feeling special.
17.33 - set off towards Bridgwater very happy that I had double long sleeve layers on!
18.14 - 3.24 miles completed, and yes we ran all the way!
20.15 - cold, splitting headache and sore throat.
08.30 - runny nose, splitting headache, aches and pains and almost texted Ali to cancel after work run but realised she wouldn't have her bike to get home!
12.15 - hungry, very hungry, nearly texted Ali to say forget the run tonight let's just go to The Harvester for scampi and chips, but didn't!
15.20 - schools out, thank goodness, I'm exhausted.
17.00 - went to collect Ali from work deliberately leaving purse at home and with every intention of telling her we would have to walk along the canal as I'm not feeling special.
17.33 - set off towards Bridgwater very happy that I had double long sleeve layers on!
18.14 - 3.24 miles completed, and yes we ran all the way!
20.15 - cold, splitting headache and sore throat.
Sunday 26 February 2012
Mellow Yellow
It started well, the glorious sun was shining. I was taking in the wonderful signs of spring, primroses, daffodils, dandelions, catkins, crocus, jasmine, all beautiful. It was warm, hot even, half way round and my jacket was off and I drank all of my water.
Then I ran out of energy and enthusiasm and I wanted to stop. I struggled home. Even running downhill was too hard.
Life is too busy. My work has got too busy. I want to stop.
I want to lie on a beach where the sun is just hot enough, where the sea is still and just warm enough to get straight in. I want to sleep and read books and stroll along the sea front. I want to sit in a restaurant open to the elements and watch the moonlight flicker across the water.
I am going to be still and quiet for the rest of the day.
Then I ran out of energy and enthusiasm and I wanted to stop. I struggled home. Even running downhill was too hard.
Life is too busy. My work has got too busy. I want to stop.
I want to lie on a beach where the sun is just hot enough, where the sea is still and just warm enough to get straight in. I want to sleep and read books and stroll along the sea front. I want to sit in a restaurant open to the elements and watch the moonlight flicker across the water.
I am going to be still and quiet for the rest of the day.
Sunday 19 February 2012
Half Term Challenge
During the last week of the recently completed half term I was asked if I had plans for the holiday week. As I hadn't, I realised I had a complete week to focus upon my running. An idea entered my head and I merrily told my work colleagues that I was going to see if I could run further than I ever had before. I meant that I wanted to see if could run further than 11.11 km in one go. I also wanted to see if my running would improve if I ran every day. So, my week panned out as follows:
Monday - I ran for distance, a long run to set me off.
(10.51 km = 6.53 miles)
Tuesday - I ran for speed, knocking 2 minutes off a usual time for a route and finishing within an hour. (8.91 km = 5.53 miles)
Wednesday - I ran for pleasure with my four legged friend.
(7.51 km = 4.66 miles)
Thursday - I ran because the sun was shining, even though a third of the way round the sun had disappeared and it felt like I was wading through treacle.
(11.11 km= 6.9 miles)
Friday - I ran because I'm now more than half way through my challenge and I will not give in!
(8.05 km = 5 miles)
Saturday - I ran because I have a commitment to support a friend new to running in her running training and because she's mighty fine company for a jolly good natter.
(7.88 km - 4.89 miles)
Sunday - I ran because I wanted to - simple as :-)
I did not run further than my PB of 11.11 km, but I did run every day, my legs hurt like hell through Thursday, Friday and Saturday but they have recovered, I had to walk some of the time on some of the runs, I still hate hills but today I ran the whole route and I have a massive smile on my face as i add up my total miles for the 7 days:
61.22 KM = 38.04 MILES
Eddie Izzard I am not - Happy Bunny I am!
Monday - I ran for distance, a long run to set me off.
(10.51 km = 6.53 miles)
Tuesday - I ran for speed, knocking 2 minutes off a usual time for a route and finishing within an hour. (8.91 km = 5.53 miles)
Wednesday - I ran for pleasure with my four legged friend.
(7.51 km = 4.66 miles)
Thursday - I ran because the sun was shining, even though a third of the way round the sun had disappeared and it felt like I was wading through treacle.
(11.11 km= 6.9 miles)
Friday - I ran because I'm now more than half way through my challenge and I will not give in!
(8.05 km = 5 miles)
Saturday - I ran because I have a commitment to support a friend new to running in her running training and because she's mighty fine company for a jolly good natter.
(7.88 km - 4.89 miles)
Sunday - I ran because I wanted to - simple as :-)
I did not run further than my PB of 11.11 km, but I did run every day, my legs hurt like hell through Thursday, Friday and Saturday but they have recovered, I had to walk some of the time on some of the runs, I still hate hills but today I ran the whole route and I have a massive smile on my face as i add up my total miles for the 7 days:
61.22 KM = 38.04 MILES
Eddie Izzard I am not - Happy Bunny I am!
Saturday 18 February 2012
Running For Longer
This morning Ali and I ran for 12 minutes three times! What a difference a few weeks make. I am very proud of you Ali, you're doing a great job.
Park Run here we come.
New trainers here we come.
Shopping trip here we come.
Lunch and gossip, here we come!
Park Run here we come.
New trainers here we come.
Shopping trip here we come.
Lunch and gossip, here we come!
Friday 17 February 2012
Oxymoron?
Man in van.
Man in white van.
Nice man in van.
Nice man in white van.
Which one is the oxymoron?
Sorry Paul, you did say you wanted to be in my blog didn't you? Shame the word sounds so unkind!
Man in white van.
Nice man in van.
Nice man in white van.
Which one is the oxymoron?
Sorry Paul, you did say you wanted to be in my blog didn't you? Shame the word sounds so unkind!
Thursday 16 February 2012
Fuzzy Wuzzy
Fuzzy Wuzzy was a bear.
Fuzzy Wuzzy had no hair.
So Fuzzy Wuzzy wasn't fuzzy was he!
Strange, the things that pop into your head whilst jogging away the miles!
Fuzzy Wuzzy had no hair.
So Fuzzy Wuzzy wasn't fuzzy was he!
Strange, the things that pop into your head whilst jogging away the miles!
Wednesday 15 February 2012
Personal Trainer
"Polly, your personal trainer is here!"
This morning I was greeted with boundless enthusiasm from my running partner. She was delighted to be going running and she has really got the hang of it. She stayed right by my side and kept looking at me with love and enjoyment. She tore up the hills and was ahead of me for nearly the whole circular route of 4.5 miles. We didn't have too many stops and only walked for a very short spell whilst heading towards a flighty horse. My partner doesn't like horses. As a special treat we diverted across a couple of fields so we could just check if there were any bunnies or birds that needed a quick chase. We completed the route in 46 minutes so I was very happy.
When I left, Polly was fast asleep in her basket, no doubt dreaming about beating her personal best time for this run!
This morning I was greeted with boundless enthusiasm from my running partner. She was delighted to be going running and she has really got the hang of it. She stayed right by my side and kept looking at me with love and enjoyment. She tore up the hills and was ahead of me for nearly the whole circular route of 4.5 miles. We didn't have too many stops and only walked for a very short spell whilst heading towards a flighty horse. My partner doesn't like horses. As a special treat we diverted across a couple of fields so we could just check if there were any bunnies or birds that needed a quick chase. We completed the route in 46 minutes so I was very happy.
When I left, Polly was fast asleep in her basket, no doubt dreaming about beating her personal best time for this run!
Tuesday 14 February 2012
Target set...
I set myself a 1 hour target for this morning's chosen route. Turning right out of my drive takes me on a 1 mile climb, slow and gentle to start, then two very steep sections with a welcome plateau between them and finishing with another slow and steady rise up to the woods. It is hard.
I am then rewarded with a downhill mile. The relief to the muscles in my legs as different ones take over is so pleasurable that I immediately remember why I do this. On this stretch I can see the lane in the distance and I particularly enjoy picking out landmarks knowing that shortly I will be passing that church, farm, and barn.
All too soon I'm at the bottom and turning right once more. Another slow and steady climb and now I'm rewarded with bright blue sky and fluffy clouds. A buzzard watches me pass as he surveys his kingdom atop a telegraph pole, I'm no threat and he barely blinks his eyelid. Mud everywhere on this lane, at least it diverts my attention from my aching limbs.
Another right turn, this time into a headwind and more incline. I can do this. I will not walk. I really want to do this circuit within the hour. I can see the house at the top of this section. It's downhill all the way home after this. And, breathe, oh the joyous feeling of downhill, I love it. I have one more obstacle to beat, although the road is now kind there is one small gentle rise and it beats me nearly every time. In a car you would not even notice it, but it's there and I hate it. Today I win!
Last turn and it's one last glorious mile, I have always run this section, I have never walked it, I know I can do it, I know I can beat my target, push, push, push, sprint into the drive and a quick glance at my watch shows I have 25 seconds to spare.
Target set, target met.
I am then rewarded with a downhill mile. The relief to the muscles in my legs as different ones take over is so pleasurable that I immediately remember why I do this. On this stretch I can see the lane in the distance and I particularly enjoy picking out landmarks knowing that shortly I will be passing that church, farm, and barn.
All too soon I'm at the bottom and turning right once more. Another slow and steady climb and now I'm rewarded with bright blue sky and fluffy clouds. A buzzard watches me pass as he surveys his kingdom atop a telegraph pole, I'm no threat and he barely blinks his eyelid. Mud everywhere on this lane, at least it diverts my attention from my aching limbs.
Another right turn, this time into a headwind and more incline. I can do this. I will not walk. I really want to do this circuit within the hour. I can see the house at the top of this section. It's downhill all the way home after this. And, breathe, oh the joyous feeling of downhill, I love it. I have one more obstacle to beat, although the road is now kind there is one small gentle rise and it beats me nearly every time. In a car you would not even notice it, but it's there and I hate it. Today I win!
Last turn and it's one last glorious mile, I have always run this section, I have never walked it, I know I can do it, I know I can beat my target, push, push, push, sprint into the drive and a quick glance at my watch shows I have 25 seconds to spare.
Target set, target met.
Monday 13 February 2012
Road Safety
The Highway Code
Rules for pedestrians (1-35)
This Highway Code applies to England, Scotland and Wales. The Highway
Code is essential reading for everyone.
Code is essential reading for everyone.
General guidance
1
Pavements (including any path along the side of a road) should be used if provided.
Where possible, avoid being next to the kerb with your back to the traffic. If you
have to step into the road, look both ways first. Always show due care and
consideration for others.
Where possible, avoid being next to the kerb with your back to the traffic. If you
have to step into the road, look both ways first. Always show due care and
consideration for others.
2
If there is no pavement keep to the right-hand side of the road so that you can see
oncoming traffic. You should take extra care and
oncoming traffic. You should take extra care and
- be prepared to walk in single file, especially on narrow roads or in poor light
- keep close to the side of the road
It may be safer to cross the road well before a sharp right-hand bend so that
oncoming traffic has a better chance of seeing you. Cross back after the bend.
oncoming traffic has a better chance of seeing you. Cross back after the bend.
3
Help other road users to see you. Wear or carry something light-coloured, bright or
fluorescent in poor daylight conditions. When it is dark, use reflective materials (e.g.
armbands, sashes, waistcoats, jackets, footwear), which can be seen by drivers using
headlights up to three times as far away as non-reflective materials.
fluorescent in poor daylight conditions. When it is dark, use reflective materials (e.g.
armbands, sashes, waistcoats, jackets, footwear), which can be seen by drivers using
headlights up to three times as far away as non-reflective materials.
I follow ALL of the advice given above but apparently if you are a young male in a
hurry in a souped up boy racer car you can ignore me, miss me by inches, scare the
life out of me and force other road users to stop and wait for you to speed through a
road not wide enough to take us all.
hurry in a souped up boy racer car you can ignore me, miss me by inches, scare the
life out of me and force other road users to stop and wait for you to speed through a
road not wide enough to take us all.
That's all 8(
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