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Boston Marathon

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Location:

UT,

Member Since:

Oct 14, 2008

Gender:

Female

Goal Type:

Age Division Winner

Running Accomplishments:

85 marathons, 5 times Utah Grand Slam finisher (division winner twice).

7 Bostons (2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2016).

Two 50Ks, one 50 miler (Pony Express).

A handful of AG wins in all distance races.

Marathon PR: 3:57:09 (Boston'08)

Half Marathon PR: 1:48:41 (Bryce Canyon '11)

10K PR: 47:50 (Spectrum 10K '09)

5K PR: 22:31 (Nestle 5K '08)
 

Short-Term Running Goals:

2017 Races:

June 10 - Utah Valley Marathon (5:13:43)

June 24 - Morgan Valley Marathon (5:49:01)

July 8 - Hobbler Half (2:19:37, 2nd AG)

July 24 - Temple to Temple 5K (27:43)

July 29 - Timp Half (2:08:01, 3rd AG)

Aug 26 - Mt. Nebo Marathon (5:16:16, 3rd AG)

Sep 16 - Huntsville Marathon (4:48:53)

Oct 7 - St. Geroge Marathon (4:57:11)

Nov 4 - Canyon City Marathon (5:30:07)

2018 Races:

Jan 13 - St. George Half (2:19:45, 3rd AG)

Mar 3 - The Woodlands Marathon (5:01:35)

Apr 6-7 - Ragnar So. California

June 1-2 - Ragnar Wasatch Back

June 9 - Utah Valley Marathon (5:19:22)

June 30 - Morgan Valley Half

Sep 1 - Pocatello Marathon (6:00:43)

Sep 15 - Huntsville Marathon (5:37:08)

Oct 6 - St. George Marathon (5:25:43)

Oct 20 - SoJo Marathon (5:29:23)

2019 Races:

June 1 - Utah Valley Marathon (5:44:24)

June 22 - Morgan Valley Marathon (6:15:13)

Aug 31 - Pocatello Marathon (5:38:47)

Sep 14 - Big Cottonwood Marathon (6:03:51)

Oct 5 - St. George Marathon (5:57:46)

Oct 12 - SoJo Marathon (5:55:45)

2020 Races:

Jan 18 - St. George Half (2:38:28)

Feb 15 - Sun Marathon (5:51:54)

May 5 - Conquer Covid-19 Virtual Marathon (5:49:07)

May 16 - Clear Creek Canyon Half Marathon (2:32:15)

May 25 - Utah Valley Virtual Marathon (5:33:110

June 9 - Independence Run Virtual Marathon (5:55:22)

 

Long-Term Running Goals:

Run happy and healthy all the days of my life. Be an example and inspiration to my family.

 

Personal:

I'm 64, retired RN, happily married, nana to 14 beautiful grandchildren, mother to 6 children (1 daughter, 5 sons) who are kind, hardworking, caring, wonderful people! Wish they live closer!!!  :)  :)  :)

Picked up running in 2005 at age 50, to stay healthy so I can take care of my husband who had endocarditis resulting in AVR and MVR in 2004, end stage renal failure in 2014, kidney transplant on Dec 30, 2015.  Six months after the kidney transplant, we discovered that he has a rare auto-immune disease that was probably triggered in 2004 with then the undiagnosed infective endocarditis.  The doctors had to make up a name for this rare disease, Monoclono Gammopathy with Renal Significance (MGRS).  It is not curable.  After desperately trying different chemotherapies, the doctor finally found one immuno-therapy, Daratumamab, that works to treat the MGRS.  It is a miracle!!! 

Grateful for the gift of life, blessings, dear friends and loved ones!!! Thankful for the ability to move, walk, jog, and yes run!!!!

 

Favorite Blogs:

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Miles:This week: 0.00 Month: 0.00 Year: 0.00
Saucony Guide ISO Wide Lifetime Miles: 311.91
Saucony Guide ISO Lifetime Miles: 313.31
Sacony Guide ISO (2) Lifetime Miles: 225.26
Altra Torin (sz 7) Lifetime Miles: 44.49
Saucony Guide 10 (2020) Lifetime Miles: 60.91
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
166.8518.000.750.00185.60
Elixir (ski Patrol) Miles: 101.10Elixir 5 (charcoal 3) Miles: 66.25Elixir 6 (hot Pink) Miles: 18.25
Night Sleep Time: 119.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 119.00Weight: 0.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

Had a dream that I was trying to learn to swim and was drowning.  I could see my friends nearby chatting away not noticing my dangerous predicament!  Woke up gasping for air!  Strange nightmare!  

Very very very windy at my neck of the woods!!!  In fact it's still howling.  Hubby went skiing and said it was calm and beautiful up in the mountains!  NOT fair!  I've had enough of that nasty wind so I opted to "run" indoor.  Took several attempts and nearly gave up.  Intended workout ~ 8 mi w/ 8x100m strides.  Jogged 5 mi at 10mph stopping numerous times to catch my breath, then did 0.125mi @ 8mph w/ equal distance RI @ 5mph x8.  Legs felt fine but the lungs had a mind of its own...so frustrating!

Took Mary to lunch for her birthday.  Came home and crashed on the couch 'till hubby woke me up to sign the tax return papers.   It was 6:30pm...I slept for over 3 hours!!!  Why am I so exhausted?!!!  :( 

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

I have thought about getting off this blog SO many times!  I feel that I don't belong here and that I have nothing to offer.  I am however very very very grateful for my fellow bloggers who are so understanding and supportive, compassionate and non-judgmental.  You are some of the GREATEST people I've ever have the privilege to get to know!  THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart for sharing your kind comments, concern and wisdom!!!!  Many thanks and love to y'all! :) :) :)

Elixir (ski Patrol) Miles: 8.00
Night Sleep Time: 7.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 7.00Weight: 0.00
Comments(15)
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.500.000.000.006.50

Ran with the girl friends on bench loop...while they talked, I huffed, puffed, blew nose, coughed, spit, walked to catch my breath.  Am so lucky to have such wonderful friends, so patient and caring! :)

Promised hubby last week that I'd pruned the raspberry bushes... so I did...for 4 hours!!!  I used to love gardening...now it feels like slave labor!!!  If the running didn't kill me, the yard work did me in!  

Today my oldest son turned 31.  I still remember when I was 31.....

Elixir 5 (charcoal 3) Miles: 6.50
Night Sleep Time: 7.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 7.00Weight: 0.00
Add Comment
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
9.000.000.000.009.00

Today was supposed to be a VO2max workout day, last one before the marathon, 9 mi w/ 3x1600m @ 5K race pace and jog 50-90% interval time between.  Ha!  I don't remember the last time I did any speed work.   Seriously, every run in the last 4 weeks has been VO2-MAXOUT run for me...no joke! :)  Anything under 10mm I'd heaved my lungs out and my heart would combust!!! :) :) :)

We were supposed to meet at Wendy's house to start our run at 8:30am.  Due to Carolyn needing to be at the elementary school, we started our run late.  We ran to the elementary school and waited for her then ran up to Alpine; turned around at the Deerfield Elementary where we got a drink.  So, the run had couple of stops and I walked couple times on the uphill.   But, the breathing was better, I did not cough up a lung or gasp for air, nor wheeze nor huff like a freight train.  I did have to blow and spit copious amount as usual.  The last mile was into a strong headwind and I survived!  YAY!!! :)  So may be taking a Claritin at bed time and Symbicort morning and night is helping...hope hope! 

Am very tired so I'm going to take a nap this afternoon!

Elixir (ski Patrol) Miles: 9.00
Night Sleep Time: 7.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 7.00Weight: 0.00
Comments(5)
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.750.000.000.007.75

Karen needed 13 so I ran some with her.  Colder and windier than I expected.  The last 2 miles by myself going uphill into a stiff headwind.  Was happy that the lungs co-operated meaning I didn't kill over on the side of the road gasping for air.  :)  With all the great medical advancement these days, you'd think someone would  invent an oxygen tank the size of a match box! :) :) :)

Have come to terms with my slow pace but remain hopeful that I will finish Boston in one piece.  If not I'll pick up the pieces and move forward.  Seriously, I think my asthma is a blessing in disguise because it slows me down enough to let the stress fracture heals!  Our body is a marvelous machine indeed! :)

Elixir 5 (charcoal 3) Miles: 7.75
Night Sleep Time: 6.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 6.00Weight: 0.00
Comments(8)
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.005.250.000.005.25

Easy peasy on the mill.  I love working out with my honey ♥ while watching a funny flix! :) 

Myrtle (10 rep).  5 circuits CSE (30 rep).

My baby turns 20 today!  Wonder if he's having a great day in Taiwan! :) 

Dinner with friends and concert tonight! 

Happy Good Friday, all!!!!


Elixir 6 (hot Pink) Miles: 5.25
Night Sleep Time: 6.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 6.00Weight: 0.00
Comments(7)
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
9.005.000.000.0014.00

Picked up Wendy and Carolyn at 7:45 to run the JRP.  33F sunny 7mph SSE wind.  wore l/s top, light jacket, gloves, capri, 24oz hand-held with elixir tablets and 1 chocolate gu.

We ran south to Saratoga Springs and turned around at mile 6.5.  The girl friends stopped to use the bathroom at the park where a friendly runner offered me water when I commented that the drinking fountain is not on.  He later caught up to us and I ran with him for 3 miles to Willow Park where he went to refill his bottle.  We talked about our upcoming races.  Found out he is Mark Ellison, I remember him from Crockett's earlier blog.  Good chat and nice to have him kept me on pace (I wanted to see if my lungs could handle mp).  Legs felt good and smooth to run faster pace!  Don't think I can sustain that pace for 26.2 though; may be by Fall. 

Got back to the car at 13.1 in 2:03:33 then turned around to get the girls to finish 14 miles.  AP: 9:25 (10:01, 9:48, 9:51, 9:39, 9:51, 9:54, 10:00, 9:34, 8:42, 8:45, 8:38, 9:06, 8:50, 9:30)  Beautiful day, saw lots of runners, walkers, fishermen, bikers, cute cute baby calves with their momma cows, geese and ducks.  When we got home, my neighbor Farmer Carter was burning the ditches along the road in front of my house...huge stinky smoke...now my lungs are so irritated...cough! cough! cough!

Happy Easter weekend to y'all! :) :) :)

Elixir (ski Patrol) Miles: 14.00
Night Sleep Time: 6.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 6.00Weight: 0.00
Comments(6)
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.500.000.000.006.50

Beautiful day, 45F, calm, sunny!  Ran with the girl friends down 3rd West then east to Sego Lily, loop around one neighborhood and the Jr. High then north up Center.  No energy or lung power going uphill.  Still lots of upper respiratory drainage.  I'm going to die on the Newton hills.  Karen pulled ahead (that girl is gonna rock UVM) while Carolyn and Wendy brought up the rear.  

Myrtle (10 rep).  5 circuits CSE (30 rep).

Going to explore City Creek then attend the Utah Chamber Music Competition Winners concert ~  https://umarket.utah.edu/uumusic/   :)

Happy Monday!!! :)

Elixir 5 (charcoal 3) Miles: 6.50
Night Sleep Time: 7.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 7.00Weight: 0.00
Comments(7)
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
5.252.000.000.007.25

Got home late last night subsequently didn't get enough Zzzzzs; SO NOT wanting to run this morning.  If not for meeting up with Wendy and Carolyn, I would've stayed in bed!

We ran east and saw Autumn C. at the corner of 600E with her cell phone on the side walk.  Found out she was stretching on the sidewalk in preparation for her run.  We invited her to join us.  After waiting for her to stretch, she felt obligated!  :)  She has just started running recently and wanted no more than 3 miles.   Told her we'd run to Smith which is 1.6 miles out then turn back and she'd get a 5K and we'd continue west for our 7 miles.  Everyone agreed and happily we went! :)

Felt SO sluggish the first mile!!!  When the girls told me to just run on ahead, I decided to do some strides.  Did 8 x 0.1 mile strides with equal distance recovery where I'd run back to the girls.  Ran easy the rest of the way with them. :)

My neighbor's mother, a 76 yo Korean lady who lives in my Stake, went to the temple for the first time today.  She was baptized a year ago on April 9.  It was so wonderful to be at her baptism then and today to the temple.  My heart was filled with overflowing joy for her and her family! :)

I have been SO TIRED lately!!!  I'd doze off as soon as I sit down, whether in a car, a movie or concert and most embarrassingly in the temple!!!  Why am I so tired?!!!

Elixir (ski Patrol) Miles: 7.25
Night Sleep Time: 6.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 6.00Weight: 0.00
Comments(6)
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

Ran with Karen (Sky) west on canal trail, south on rail trail, east on 3200N.  As usual, Karen kicked my trash on the uphill.  Almost puked at the top of the hill by the mink farm...the WORST stench ever!  Nose still running faster than the legs!  Other than that, it was a beautiful day out...so lucky to have a patient and loving running buddy! :)  Karen's youngest daughters were out skateboarding when we ran by her house so they skated alongside for my last mile home...SO CUTE!  :) :) :)

Myrtle. 3 circuits CSE.

Elixir 5 (charcoal 3) Miles: 6.00
Night Sleep Time: 7.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 7.00Weight: 0.00
Comments(5)
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
3.001.250.750.005.00

Last run before the marathon!  Heading to Boston this evening!  Am excited for many fellow bloggers who have trained so hard and smart and totally primed for a FANTASTIC marathon on Mon.  Have a safe and fun trip y'all Boston bound folks!  Hope I get to see some of you! :) 

As for me, this is going to be a fun and very expensive, slow long training run! :) 

Elixir 6 (hot Pink) Miles: 5.00
Night Sleep Time: 7.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 7.00Weight: 0.00
Comments(15)
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

After a sleepless red-eye flight.  We arrived at Boston Logan International at 10am.  Took the T blue line, transfer to green line.  This being our 5th Boston trip, we know how to get around pretty good.  Waited for Eric's arrival from Cleveland in the Boston Common Hotel and checked in at noon.  We lucked out on getting this room for $134.  Located on 40 Trinity Pl, is across the street from the John Hancock Tower where Eric will report on race morning for his volunteer duty as an DPM in the finish line med tent.

As tradition, we head down on Boylston to the finish line then grab lunch at the Japanese noodle shop on the marathon course on Hereford.

We then head over to the Expo which is at the World Trade Center at Water Front this year.  I prefer the Hynes Convention on Boylston better.

 

The Expo on Fri. afternoon is much much less crowded.


No autograph from Ryan Hall this year!  :)

Dinner at Legal Seafood, hubby and I shared a lobster bake while Eric had Cod with lobster tail.  We've waited a whole year for this scrumptious seafood! :) :) :)

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
Comments(1)
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Normally we walk/tour the Freedom Trail on Tue, the day after the race.  It's a great walk for post-marathon recovery.  But this year, we decided to do this on Sat. because Eric heads home bright and early the morning after the race. 

 

 

 

 

My legs and feet were dog-tired by the end of the day! :)  Not Eric, he ran up all 400 steps of the Bunker Hill Monument and after dinner went to the 8:45 showing of the movie, Hunger Games!  I was beat for not having slept for two days! :)

Chow time and party with the gang at the Empire Garden! L-R: Ryan, Teena, Andy, Becky, Ronnie, Slick, Jeff, Smooth, Larry, Lark, Marcie, Jeff, Mindy, Jason, Abby, Susie, Lowell and Eric! :)

Becky, Teena, Smooth (Oreo girls)! :) :) :)

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
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Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Did a little "homework" beforehand to avoid the snaffu we had the last couple years.  In 2009 we went to Sacrament at Boston 3rd Ward which is a Haitian/Creole Ward...even after talking to the bishop who assured us that it was English. 

In 2010 we went to the Cambridge 1st Ward in a warehouse.  Turned out it was their Stake Conference.  We found an unlock door and went inside to hold our own Sunday Meeting.  Larry conducted the meeting.  Doone played the piano.  Rhett and I bore our testimonies.  It was very memorable.

In 2011 we (Lowell, Terry, Larry and I) went to the Blessing of the athletes at the Old South Church which.  It happened to be Palm Sunday, a really neat Sunday service.  Afterwards we went to the Cambridge 1st Ward with Marcie, Lark, Rhett, Doone, Kathie, James, JoseJ.  The warehouse was no longer the meeting place.  Instead they have built a nice Stake Center.

This year I found out that the Cambridge Wards were again having Stake Conference and the Boston 1st Ward (English speaking) holds Sacrament Mtg at 9am.  It happened to be their Fast & Testimony Mtg.  An African American sister prayed for the safety and God's help for the marathoners on.  A marathoner bore her testimony of God knows us individually.  She was struggling with enough money to pay for the change of flights; having booked them without realizing the marathon started later than she had thought.  God was very much aware of her plight when unexpectedly she received an envelope with a note: "In as much as ye have done it unto one of the least of these, ye have done it unto me" and $700 cash. 

So glad I went to Sacrament Mtg. today!

After church, we went to Chinatown to yum cha.  While Eric went sightseeing, I checked my emails and received the following alerts from BAA :

Update to Entrants in Tomorrow's Boston Marathon®

Sunday, April 15, 2012 as of 4:30 p.m.

 

Running any marathon involves risks

  • The weather conditions that we will be seeing on Monday, April 16 will involve even more risk.  It will involve an increased element of risk to all participants due to the heat.  Only the fittest runners should consider participating.
  • We have put in place a broad array of services and support for our marathon participants, but the risks that will be presented on April 16 will be higher than normal.
  • Therefore, in cooperation with the Boston Marathon's Medical Team, it is our recommendation that anyone entered in the marathon who has not met the qualifying standards for their age and gender strongly consider not running, and that they strongly consider deferring until next year.
  • Another essential factor to take into consideration is whether you have ever run a full marathon in weather conditions involving hot temperatures-and that can mean temperatures even lower than those that may be present on Monday.  Do NOT assume that any experience you have in running a cooler marathon will be a reliable guide in making the decision in whether to participate or defer.  You must factor in the heat.
  • Everyone who does choose to participate should strongly consider running significantly more slowly that they normally would plan to run a marathon.  We have extended the opening of our finish line in support of this recommendation.
  • For the overwhelming majority of those who have entered to participate in the 2012 Boston Marathon, you should adopt the attitude that THIS IS NOT A RACE. It is an experience.
  • MOST IMPORTANTLY-everyone needs to take responsibility for their own safety.  Ultimately this is an individual sport in which individuals must take responsibility for themselves.

Boston Athletic Association 

_________________________

Advisory From Boston Marathon MEDICAL DIRECTORS to Entrants in the 2012 Boston Marathon

Sunday, April 15, 2012 as of 4:30 p.m.

 

The weather situation continues to be a significant concern for Boston Marathoners. We have determined that the race will occur in a "red zone" which is considered an increased risk but acceptable for high-level elite runners.  However, it is not considered safe for unfit and novice runners.

 

We strongly recommend that unless you have met qualifying times for this race that you accept the deferment option from the B.A.A.

 

Anyone who has not run a qualifying time should also very strongly consider the deferment option.

 

Again, if you have any medical problems or if you under-trained, then please do not run this marathon.

 

Those who are running the race should run much slower, adding several minutes to your per mile pace.

 

Also important, please be sure to complete the emergency medical contact information on the reverse side of your bib.

 

Remember, unless you are acclimated to the weather conditions forecast for Monday, you should not run.

 

For those very fit athletes who decide to run, you should take significant precautions:

 

  • Run at a slower pace and maintain hydration.
  • You should frequently take breaks by walking instead of running.
  • Heat stroke is a serious issue and is related to intensity of running as well as the heat and humidity.
  • Good hydration is important but over hydration is also dangerous.

Thirst is an indication that you are under-hydrated. You should maintain hydration levels slightly greater than your hydration program in your training, but not excessively so.  Over-hydration can cause severely low sodium, known as hyponatremia.

 

Even the fittest athletes that take precautions can still suffer serious heat illness. Recognizing symptoms of heat illness in yourself and others is critical. This may include headaches, dizziness, confusion, fatigue, nausea and vomiting. If you experience any of these, stop running immediately and if symptoms persist seek medical attention.

 

Boston Marathon Co-Medical Directors, Dr. Pierre d'Hemecourt and Dr. Sophia Dyer



Debated whether to defer.  Eric asked me how I felt.  I told him there's a 30% chance that of DNF with my triple threats: 1) still recovering from a 9 weeks old metatarsal stress fracture, decreased in fitness;  2) am dealing with asthma and breathing issue;  3) THE HEAT ~ historically I don't do well in warm weather, muscle cramping being the main enemy.  

After much debate; I prayed about it and felt that I would be okay.  Since I already ran a BQ with 12 min cushion, a deferment isn't much of an incentive.  I will just need to be smart and take it super easy! :)

The pre-race pasta party.  

Night Sleep Time: 0.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 0.00Weight: 0.00
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Race: Boston Marathon (26.2 Miles) 05:02:22
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
26.600.000.000.0026.60

 Nothing but VERY "warm" memories!!! :) :) :)

Shouldn't classify this as a race report.  I did NOT race today.  The heat simply gave me a good reason to have a party considering my current lack of fitness.  When BAA offered to keep the course open for an extra hour...I thought to myself: "YAY, instead of 6 hours, I get to have 7 hours to party! Silly me! :)  Met everyone (TomSlick, Hillbillyrunner, AndyB, Lark, Jeff, Mindy and Teena) down at the hotel lobby at 6am to walk couple blocks to Boston Common for our bus ride to Hopkinton.  Marcie deferred so she could run a PR at SLC, smart choice!  The mood on the bus was very subdued compared to past years.  

Got to the athlete village with over 2 hours to kill.  Found a shady patch of grass to set out our air mattresses.   It was so warm that I had zero appetite, forced down a banana, bagel and gatorade.  Wished AndyB and Jeff luck as they headed to their Wave 1 start; soon followed by Teena, Slick and Ronnie to their Wave 2 start.  Mindy, Lark and I were in Wave 3.  Lost Lark on the way to the drop bag buses.  Called Lowell and met him and his niece, Karen by the "It All Starts Here Sign" where we posted for more pictures.  Felt bummed that I did not connect with Steam8.  Mindy and I made one more trip to the pop...plenty to choose from.  The athlete village was suddenly deserted, they turned off the music.  Lost Mindy on our long march to the corrals.  

Of the 5 Bostons I've run, this was by far the farthest back we started.  Lowell, Karen and I didn't even bother to enter the corrals we were assigned, we simply followed the throng of charity walkers.  Couldn't believe we were still walking after crossing the start where we waved to the camera.  It was so crowded that running was futile.  We walked, jogged, goofed off, made new friends, told stories, sang, took insane amount of pictures for 17 miles.  Saw a Utah Valley Marathon ad. poster/sign so we ran back and found a spectator to take a picture of us standing beneath it.  Took pix under the TJ Diner sign in honor of TJ who had a pacemaker put in 5 days after running Boston last year.  Took pix at every memorable or interesting locations.  Wish I knew how to post pix from my cell here.  Saw lots of hamburger clad runners, one Robin Hood, one toothbrush, two tie-die warriors, 3 fairies,  a very cute spectator Santa.  We marched with the National Guards, danced with little kids, stopped at a backyard BBQ and was tempted to sample their food.

Cannot thank the spectators enough.  They offered us ICE, popsicles, cold water, apples, oranges, twizzlers, sprayed us with hose, water guns.  We marched with the National Guards.  High-fived so many hands that mine hurt a good hurt! :)  Lowell would pour water on me and Karen at every aid station.  I got a hold of a bottle of cold water and sneaked up on Lowell and doused him good.   Cannot remember the last time I had so much fun with a water fight which went on for a few miles! :)  Whenever we passed a runner/walker with a "in memory of...", we'd ask him/her to tell us their stories.  It was very inspiring. 

If I wasn't so short, I would've kissed the Wellsley girls on the foreheads!  I blew kisses to all the ones holding a "Kiss Me" sign and high-fived the rest.  Their energy was SO AWESOME!!!  Kept a close eye on Lowell to make sure no Wellsley girls geezer-napped him! :)  It was here that I lost him 2 years ago!  Karen was awesome in keeping track of us.  Her family has rented a car and would meet us on the left side of the road every so many miles.  We were running mostly on the right side of the road where there was more shade; but would run over on the left side whenever we got words that her family would be there soon.  We stopped and chatted with her family and reapplied sunscreen and of course took pictures.  We missed them one time and ran back to find them! 

I got separated from Lowell and Karen at the mile 17ish PowerBar energy gels station.  I ate my 3rd energy gel there and went to the left side of the road in search of water.  I should mention that because we were running WAY BACK of the pack, some of the aid stations had run out of cups.  But it was not a problem as the locals had plenty water to offer.  I made sure that I would drink gatorade at all the even number miles and water at the odd number ones.  Somehow in the chaos of searching for water, I lost my running buddies.  I walked back to the energy gel station calling out their names.  Other runners thought I was a nutcase when I asked if they'd seen "Idaho Sam" (that is what's written on the front of Lowell's shirt).  I pulled out my cell phone and called Lowell and left a message that I would be walking all the Newton Hills so he could catch up if they were behind me; otherwise I would keep a steady pace and hopefully catch up to them if they were ahead. 

NO ONE was running on the Newton Hills especially on Heartbreak.  I felt that I had the energy to run it but it was pointless so I just visited with my fellow walkers.  For some reason, the hills did not feel as long.  I really enjoyed the Korean drum music.  There were some scary sights from the Red Cross tents where many had succumbed to the heat.  I decided that after cresting Heartbreak I would run the rest of the miles for as long as my legs and lungs would let me.  The energy gel must've kicked in...I found myself running with ease and being carried along by the energetic and loud Boston College crowd.   I did not walk anymore, only slowed enough to grab fluids at the aid stations.  I heard so many people yelling: "Look at her GO!" as I passed a sea of walkers for 5+ miles.  The silly grin on my face from mile 1 stayed with me all the way to Boylston where it turned into a HUGE smile as I spotted my hubby by the Prudential Mall.  I found out later that he stood worrying for 2 hours when the AT&T alert quit coming after the half.  He thought I got hurt and DNF.  He called me but of course I did not hear my phone...how could I with the LOUD crowd! My sweet sweet hubby was there early standing by the guard rail on Boylston.  He watched the elites and winner ran by and cheered and waited patiently and looked for me every time a medic cart went by.  I love him so much! :)

This was my slowest marathon ever; yet one of my funnest.  My first Boston in 2008 was my fastest marathon.  Both times I had a strong finish and felt awesome afterwards.  I ran (err jogged) a 2:32:33 first half and finished with a negative split.  As a side note, my Garmin registered 26.6 miles, the longest Boston distance yet!  I am SO GRATEFUL that I had no asthma issue and was able to finish in one piece.

After the race, we went to Durgin Park for our post-race celebration dinner.  My son, Eric worked from 8am 'till 7pm in the finish line med tent.  He said it was like a MASH unit.  He started countless IVs, treated and bandaged numerous blistered feet.  "Bus-load" of runners were treated with heat-related problems, vomiting, cramping, fainting.  He earned his volunteer jacket.  So proud of him!  I saw many runners collapsed while walking to the bag drop buses! 

It was amazing that out of the thousands of spectators, I would run into Lowell's wife and daughter-in-law when I was walking back to my hotel.

 

Post race dinner. L ro R ~ Marcie, Larry, Smooth, Eric, Lloyd, Mindy, Jeff.

Many thanks and congratulations to my fellow bloggers and friends who braved the heat to race, run and offer support on this historical 116th Boston! :)

Elixir (ski Patrol) Miles: 26.60
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Whale watching cruise.

 

Touring of the State House.  Do you know what's under the Gold Dome?

 

Walked all over Beacon Hills.

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Walked to Chinatown for dim sum.  Spent the morning and part of afternoon shopping and revisiting the finish line at Copley Square.  GOOD BYE BOSTON till next year! :)

The best part of going on a trip is NO making beds and NO cooking! :) 

The view from our hotel room's balcony! 

The finish line 2 days later, they were still taking down the scaffolding! AWESOME!

The "T" is the best way to get around.  $15 gets you a 7 days pass w/ unlimited rides!

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7.250.000.000.007.25

Got home at 10:30 (12:30 eastern time) last night.  SO TIRED!  But woke up at 4am with congestion and post nasal drip and coughing fits.  Dang!  The UT allergies hit me with a vengeance!  

Waited till 7am to text my running girl friends.  Karen needed to run 12.  Carolyn and Wendy are resting for their long run tomorrow.  So I joined Karen for 7.25.  Just a little tight in the quads which loosened up nicely after couple miles.  Breathing is still hard though.  Sigh!  I miss the sea level air.  Cool cloudy morning, wore capri, l/s and jacket!  

Elixir 5 (charcoal 3) Miles: 7.25
Night Sleep Time: 5.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 5.00Weight: 0.00
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My bio-clock is still set at eastern time...woke up at 4am.  Allergy still bugs.  Took Symbicort.  Drove to the JRP to run 8 with Wendy and Carolyn.  They needed 15+.  The two black toe nail toes were bugging a bit otherwise no soreness to speak of.  The breathing is still labored especially on the uphill...lots of spitting sputum and snot rockets...sorry folks!  I gained 5 lbs...hopefully it's all fluid and not from the seafood feasting! :)  

Elixir 6 (hot Pink) Miles: 8.00
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Hubby drove us to the finish of the SLC Half/Full Marathon.  We drove around the blocks between 300W - South Temple - Main - 500 South twice trying to get to North Temple to park at the Event Parking.  It was very frustrating with the road closures, detours and congested traffic.  While idling on South Temple, saw the male leaders of the Half Marathon coming in.  Hubby finally took my advice to go back to the Freeway and take the 600N Exit to access the parking lot from the northwest.  We had wasted 30 min precious time driving around downtown.  Note to the new SLC race organizers:  put in plain words where to park and the directions to get to the Event Parking.  I think a few runners thought the finish was at the Gateway.  I had studied the maps carefully and read where the road closures were...but they were clear as mud.

After parking, I quickly called Lowell who was enroute from Pocatello and was actually parked at the Gateway...he thought that was the finish.  Anyhow, made a mad dash to the pop and bee-lined to the barricade 100 yards from the finish.  It was so crowded, I thought I saw RAD cruised to the finish!  Then I saw Becky, actually she spotted me first, looking so speedy and smooth gliding to the finish.  The crowd was so quiet.  I can't believe the huge difference between SLC and Boston.  I started to cheer loudly, clapped and worked the spectators.  Lowell called and said he found RAD and were trying to locate me.  In the process of meeting up with them, we barely missed Toby coming in.  Both RAD and Toby ran impressive PRs this morning!  SO SO SO HAPPY and PROUD of them.

We stayed on to cheer the Marathon Champion, Fritz, blazing effortlessly to a 2:25.  The buzz among the spectator and volunteers was that bib#3 guy ran Boston on Monday.  I got so excited when I saw that he was a fellow FRBer.  I SO SO SO wanted to watch allie but only could stay for the top 3 finisher before having to drive to 3300 South 500 East to meet Lowell's friend, Allyson H, who was running her first marathon as part of her training for an Ironman in June.  I had agreed to along with Lowell pace her the last 10K.  Her expected time was 4:15. 

We got to mile 19.6ish when the 4:00 hr pace group passed.  Allyson's husband rode up to us on his bike.  He did the bike tour earlier and rode from the hotel to find us.  We were pretty certain that we hadn't missed Allyson.  Got a little worried when the 4:15 pace group passed and no sign of Allyson.  We ran further south to the aid station and waited.  Finally Lowell spotted her and we joined in to run with her. 

She was slowing and could not take any more GU.  The sun was beating down and she was taking walk breaks.  She's a tall triathlete from Jackson Hole and I can tell it's getting too warm for her.  I carried her extra GUs.  Lowell ran ahead to the closest convenient store to purchase a huge cup of ice.  We doused her with water and gave her ice.  It's payback time from Boston.  I kept her going, talking to her.  Lowell's big lies were hillarious.  I put ice in her back and short pockets.  Her husband met us at the corner of 1300South and gave her a bottle of flat coke.  Lowell got a fresh cup of ice from 7-11 and we put the coke in the remainder cup of ice that I carried all the way to the finish.  Lowell took pictures of us.  We did jump shots for the cameramen at Liberty Park.  Once we got on State St. I told Allyson we will chick as many guys as possible and chicking Lowell does not count.  We chicked one guy in red when he was walking; then two young guys who were cramping up badly.  I shared with them the coke which Allyson had had enough of.  Allyson was such good sport she responded when we encouraged her to "stick it to the hill" to the top of State St.  It was a triumphant moment running under the Seegull Gate.  Running west on South Temple was exhilliarating, a nice gentle decline finish.  Very proud of her accomplishment.  She threw up into the storm drain after crossing the finish and kept apologizing.  What a trooper! 

We took some finisher photos, found Larry; then walked Allyson back to her hotel.  Lowell treated us to a nice brunch at the hotel.  It was a GREAT non-race race day! :)  One day I will run the SLC Marathon/Half Marathon.  My legs felt like they could've run the Half easily today...still not ready to race though!

Elixir (ski Patrol) Miles: 6.50
Night Sleep Time: 5.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 5.00Weight: 0.00
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Ran easy with Karen, Wendy and Carolyn.  Allergies hit me with a vengeance.  Lotsa spits and snot rocket.  Karen kicked my trash on the uphill.

Helped hubby with the never ending work on our acre jungle, gathering cut-down pine branches to add to the humongous burn pile.  STINKY SMOKE galore!!! :-0

Helped hubby put up the awning on the west side of the covered deck unsuccessfully.  SO HOT! SO DANGEROUS on the ladder! yikes! 


Elixir (ski Patrol) Miles: 8.25
Night Sleep Time: 6.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 6.00Weight: 0.00
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It was so hot yesterday that we decided to beat the heat by starting our run at 6am.  We ran into a micro-burst with tiny raindrops and HUGE wind gust.  I was hoping to see the bright Venus but the huge dark storm clouds covered the northwest sky.  Ran back to the house (0.25 mile) to take a puff of my Albuterol as I could feel an asthma coming on.  We ran east and was rewarded with the view of the mountains and beautiful sunrise.  

Myrtle (10 reps)

6 circuits of CSE (30 reps)


Elixir 5 (charcoal 3) Miles: 6.25
Night Sleep Time: 5.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 5.00Weight: 0.00
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Ran with Karen to Mtn. Ridge Jr. High and back.  Nice overcast sky, 61F, w/ occasional breeze.  Abundant tree blossoms, flowers, dandelions, green grass, weeds, smokey burnt fields = allergy city = O2 deficit = huffing old lady in very slow pace.  :)

Helped hubby a tiny bit in the yard gathering cut-down Poplars to add to burn pile.  The raspberries patch needs weeding AGAIN...will have to wait for another day.

Going to the temple with another elderly stake member receiving his endowment.  This is the 2nd such occasion this month!  SO VERY NICE!!!  I LOVE IT!!! :)

Elixir 5 (charcoal 3) Miles: 10.00
Night Sleep Time: 6.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 6.00Weight: 0.00
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Ran with Karen.  Nice weather.  

Myrtle.

5 circuits CSE.

Clean house so it's guest-presentable for Lowell tomorrow! :)

A huge rain and hurricane wind storm blew in couple hours after I've scrubbed the outside windows totally ruined my hard work!  Grrrrrr!

Bryan dropped on his way home after his MobTab-OTS rehearsal.  He spent the night because of the storm.  While visiting with him, I got a text from Lowell and was distracted.  I had turned on the faucets to start soaking my hubby's smokey-dirty-yard-work clothes in the laundry tub.  It over flowed and flooded my laundry room and the room below it.  Bryan and hubby helped me mop up the mess and traced the flow of the flood.  Thankfully it was withing the duct work, no sheet rocks or flooring damage.  Boy, was I tired by the time I went to bed at 1am. 

Elixir 5 (charcoal 3) Miles: 7.00
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Was going to do some intervals.  But too tired.  Plus I had to give Bryan a hair cut before he heads back down to his apartment in Provo.  So I aborted the workout after 2 miles warm up.  O well...am not in any shape and form to do speed work anyway.

Finished cleaning up the house.  Went to Costco and Smith.  Never go shopping when you're in a hurry...meet too many old friends and neighbors and just had to visit with them.  Lowell got to my house before I made it home.  I was going to cook us a salmon dinner; since I was short on time...hubby treated us to dinner at Applebees.

After dinner, we went to packet pick up and Expo where I found out the AF Canyon 1/2 was filled!  GRRRR! 

After the Expo, I took Lowell to AF Hospital to see his brand new grandson who was born last night at 11:15.  I just LOVE to hold and cuddle new born baby.  GREAT DAY and NIGHT! :)

Elixir 5 (charcoal 3) Miles: 2.00
Night Sleep Time: 4.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 4.00Weight: 0.00
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Got up at 5am.  Lowell and I had a quick breakfast of banana and OJ before heading over to Karen's so she could follow us to Thanksgiving Point.  Got there at 5:50.  Used the bathroom.  Met Toby, Catherine and RAD at the packet pick up pavilion.  Temps was in the high 30s, calm.  PERFECT running weather! 

We ran the beginning miles of the course;  RAD and Catherine turned around at the hairpin turn (2.5 miles).   Lowell, Toby, Karen and I ran further north then turned east around the backside of the Thanksgiving Point business park and back to the start.  Had to walk to take my albuterol on the uphill climb east of the Marriott Hotel.  So mad at my asthma.  Forgot to restart my Garmin so lost a mile data.  But Karen's Garmin showed that we've run just a tad under 5 miles so I ran to the car to ditch the jacket and gloves to make 5.

Ran to the start as the announcer said 60 seconds before the race.  Waited for the gang to go over the timing mat.  Got to hang with Misty a little bit and cheered JakeK and Walter.  SO EXCITING to see the Elites breezing by! :)  Rachel shot out in front of the 1:55 pace group.  That girl is on fire! :)  Lowell, Karen, Toby and I hang back at the 9:20 pace.  All was well until we hit some uphills where my lungs just wouldn't let me run!  It was very kind of Toby and Karen to stay close.  

Running thru the gardens is crazy fun, beautiful tulips in full bloom, the rose garden arbor was romantic, so was the merry-go-round, the butterfly garden has fun hedges to run thru, my favorite was the children's discovery garden and the biggest man-made water fall.  :)  Then comes the golf course with its undulating rollers...yikes...it kills any oz. of my rhythm...I would blast down the downhills only to come to a halt on the uphills.  When I say hills...I mean rollers...but they felt like mountains! :)  They are so NOT fun!

Got a little bit of headwind when we headed south which took my measly breath away.  That was the beginning of my "wall".  I could not pick up my pace without a hint of asthma attack coming on...so I jogged/walked until we got off the golf course.  Toby and Karen and Toby's friends started pulling away.  When I saw them at one of the hairpin turns, I cut across to meet them.  I would've been DQ'd twice today...hahaha!!! :)

On the straight stretch (NOT too many of those, this course has more turns then Rapumsel's curls) I was able to keep a steady pace but still couldn't keep strides with the gang.  I saw a prego girl and wasn't about to let her beat me so I ran with her until the last turn north with about 0.2 or less to go.  Her family was there to cheer her in.  I "kicked" it in after the turn into Electric Park.  I could see Toby but couldn't catch her.  I peeled off a few yards from the finish just before the barricade and continue to run on the walkway to circle around the finisher's corral.  I didn't reset my Garmin, so not sure what my time for the Half was. 

After finding the gang, we used the pop, dropped off Lowell's finisher medals in the car and went out for 4 more miles.  We ran about a mile out and turned back to see if Lowell was coming and realized he must've decided not to come.  Debated whether to call it quit...I would've if RAD didn't stay with me.  I had to take a lot of walk breaks.  THANKS Rachel for staying with me! :)  Karen and Toby ran up ahead and turned west to make sure they got in 4 miles, RAD turned to join them.  I ran the last mile of the race and passed some of the half-marathoners.  Got some cheer from the people in my Stake (both during the race, after and now)!!! :)

It was SUPER COOL to see Lily, Walter and met in person JakeK, Andrea and Runningafterbabies who all took podium.  CONGRATZ!!!  WINNER WINNER CHICKEN DINNER!!!! :) :) :)  Lowell took 2nd in his AG!  After the award ceremony, we went to IHop for yummy brunch!  :)

OH!  How could I forget the Altra Maniacs (jun and Matt).  They were running everywhere cheering and spreading AWESOME STUDNESS!!! Got to see them 3 times on the course and they even ran a little bit with me on the golf course rollers AND hang out at the award ceremony.  I'm still smiling thinking about it! :) :) :) :) :)

*****Hit 55 miles this week!  At this stage of my training, I feel fortunate that I can put in the mileage...but...my fitness is not there...I am running SO SLOW!!!!  Will just have to accept the fact that I am getting oldER and I may never ever PR again! :(  With that said, I have not lost my love of running...well, it's the only thing I know how to do! Hehehe! :)


Elixir (ski Patrol) Miles: 21.50
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Had a wonderful Stake Conference weekend.  Last night Elder Gene R. Cook who lives in our Stake was the speaker.  He taught us three doctrines that we should teach our family.  This morning, the 2nd counselor of the temple presidency and his wife, Sis. Rowley, and the Stake Presidency spoke.  

 

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Solo easy run on a beautiful cool morning!  Saw 3 girls (I think one was Carina) running towards me about 0.2 mile into my run!  Two of them wore the 2011 Boston jacket as was I.   They giggled when I hollered: "Hi Carina!"  So I hope that was her! :)

Went to a friend's funeral.  He served in the Stake Presidency with my hubby 12 years ago.  He would've turned 61 on Mother's Day. :(

Registered for 3 marathons today:  Park City, St. George and Day After the End of the World Marathon. :)

Elixir 5 (charcoal 3) Miles: 7.00
Night Sleep Time: 5.50Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 5.50Weight: 0.00
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Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
166.8518.000.750.00185.60
Elixir (ski Patrol) Miles: 101.10Elixir 5 (charcoal 3) Miles: 66.25Elixir 6 (hot Pink) Miles: 18.25
Night Sleep Time: 119.00Nap Time: 0.00Total Sleep Time: 119.00Weight: 0.00
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