Mother's Day Races!

Happy Mother's Day to all the mamas!!

We kicked off our weekend with a fun little trail race. I haven't done a trail race since the Nerstrand Big Woods half marathon back in 2000. That was a FULL STICK EVENT - and we had fun running through the woods and posing for silly pics afterward. Love those Sticks!! This time we wanted something a bit different from the typical road race, and we happened to come across a race that provided us with an offroad tour of some nearby forest preserves .. and one that just happened to celebrate mothers - yay! Unbeknownst to us, my MIL had signed up for her own race - a cancer run/walk that started five minutes away from our race and two hours earlier. As it turned out, we all got to participate in our races on a damp and chilly spring morning. 

friend and MIL

MIL with her friends

Our trail race started at 10am. This was actually pretty awesome since we had time to eat breakfast, play a bit, and wait for Grandma to come home from her race to watch Baby. Time was a little tight, and though we made it to the start with time to spare, we had to park in a far away lot and walk about a half mile to the start.

this sign was pretty far from the start

As soon as I got out of the car, I began to run. I *hate* being late for races, but I checked my anxiety at the door and calmly carried on. My husband decided to walk, so we split up and planned to meet at the finish. I heard the start horn when I was still on the way. And this race wasn't chip timed. Oh well. I headed toward the arches and watched the entire field head toward the trees. Then I crossed the start and started my garmin.

way in the back

there they go - headed toward the trails

I just tried to run steady and get into a groove. Unfortunately, because I started so far back, I dealt with a huge bottleneck and had to slow to a complete standstill when we encountered some fallen branches and basically a lack of clear ground. Over tree trunks we walked, hoping things would clear up shortly. It did, but not without a significant hit to my time. It was at the standstill that I started a conversation with another mom. We were both joking that this race had turned into more of a hike. It didn't seem like either of us cared too much - and we ended up running the whole race together. It was great to chat about running, being a mom (she had two little ones and one on the way), and all kinds of other things. Sometimes conversation flows so easily, and even though I just met her, I felt like we had many things in common. Since I lack running partners these days (especially runner moms) this was really fantastic for me. And it turns out that she had quite an impressive running history! I was treated to some really fun stories ;)

I took a few pics on the trail, but they had their own camerafolk on the course taking free action shots!

pics i took on the trail

trying to get a sense of the course

i'm in the blue vest

race friend in the orange

The course never provided a dull moment. We ran on clear dirt paths, over cluttered narrow paths, through muddy obstacles, over fallen branches, and occasionally on grass - cross country style. Though the skies were overcast, the trees were lush with green and everything smelled perfectly spring. It was really refreshing to run with these scenes. The miles flew by. 

My husband started way behind me but at one point he caught up to me. He continued to run strong and ran a great race. I held steady and chatted with my unofficial race partner.

my husband on the trail

pretty cool solo shot they took

The finish was the same as the start - when we came out of the woods, we circled back on the grass and approached the finish arches. Here's my photo finish ;)

the finish

Un-chipped official time: 36:03

"Chip" time (aka my garmin said): 35:16 (avg of 11:29)

Splits:

Mile 1: 12:45

Mile 2: 10:23

Mile 3 and the last .1: 12:09

As soon as I crossed the line, I was presented with a medal and a rose - awww. They really wanted to celebrate mamas!! Post race we rocked it out with Chicago Style hot dogs and craft beers, and then headed home to see Baby. Sadly, she didn't spectate because there was a significant threat of rain (which ended up being a non-issue).

celebrating post race

If you can try out a trail race, I would totally recommend it! Luckily there are more opportunities for trail running near us than I thought - so I know we will be back at it for more. Super fun time!!

Five by the Fifth (on the fifth) 5K (and Menu planning)

It was May the fifth before I realized I had a Virtual 5K to complete. Occasionally, time gets away from me. But luckily, I saw the reminder email to get my run in, and I set the date for Sunday.

We had a brilliant spring weekend - cool breeze, easy sun, and milder temps. I stepped out the door Sunday morning in shorts and a tee (plus tall socks, because they feel glorious!). After a warm-up mile or so, I started the garmin. I really just wanted to run easy.

There was a cross breeze for the first mile and a half - coming off the lake. Occasionally it felt like it would gust. I hit the first mile at 8:48 and decided that was decent enough. Mile two included a turn around, which requires more attention to safety now that the path is more crowded with recreators (in the winter it was just me and the frost - there was no need to look before I leapt..). As soon as I turned, I felt more of a headwind. The kind that doesn't joke. When I approached the harbor again,  I watched the boats bob vigorously left and right, their bows struggling to find the wind; apparently, I wasn't the only one at a loss re: wind direction.

Mile two's wind factor caused me to slow a bit - 8:51. And mile three was almost entirely into the wind.  But I used my legs to the best of my ability, fighting the breezy obstacle and bit of fatigue, hitting mile three in 9:20. The last bit was short (0:46) and then I was done. Some jogging and a slight cool down.

"Official" time: 27:43 (8:57)

Splits
8:48

8:51

9:20
0:46

I don't have pictures. The reason is that my "photographer" was busy taking care of our daughter. I often wonder how other mama runners acquire so many photos on their regular runs - who takes them? I understand race photos - with hired photogs and all - but I have a hard time booking Brightroom for my not for profit virtual runs. In any case, there are probably thousands of running pics of me peppered throughout this blog. Just scroll a bit and you'll get the picture (haha).  In any case, another fun little virtual run in the bag! Thanks again to the hostesses!

As for menu planning, we have a short week because we'll be away for the tail end of the week. We also have an abundance of leftovers - including potato leek soup, red beans and rice, caramelized onions/goat cheese (which will likely go on a pizza crust), and some chicken salad that goes great on buttery buns. So I think we're pretty set this week for food. Occasionally, we overcook and have so many leftovers that we get an automatic break from cooking. I guess that is this week. With Mother's Day on the horizon, I'll take it!

Imitation is the Biggest Form of Flattery

Lately all she wants to do is run. "RUNNING!!" she shouts, and takes off - little arms going back and forth, legs churning in a happy fury. She LOVES it. And I've noticed that at least once a day, she gets her run in (she is doing better than I am!)

Since it's been so gorgeous outside lately, we've spent the majority of our days soaking in the sun and cool breeze. She finds a space, shouts "running!', and takes off! Here are a few snapshots I've been able to take of her in action.

Seriously, she did hills one day. Up and down, up and down. I lost count after a while. But she giggled her little self silly as she exploded down the grassy hill. 

A typical game (running workout) for her is to run to an object (in this case, the cement fencing), turn around and run full speed back to me. We hug briefly and then she jogs back to her object. Intervals??

She even got in a little beach run yesterday. It was so nice out we had to get some sand and sun. She'd run to the water's edge, turn around and run up the sand. I laughed out loud thinking she was already into beach running! 

No doubt she's my daughter ;) 

Menu Planning and Advertising

A day late..

Sunday - We grilled burgers along with spring onions topped with a romesco sauce. This was our first outdoor grilling evening of the year! And the first one in our new place. Everything went swimmingly well!

grilled onions and romesco sauce

Monday - Fried bread topped with caramelized onions, roasted mushrooms and an herb cream sauce - more or less this recipe.

Tuesday - Chicken fajitas - from this month's Runners World Magazine. Basically stir fry chicken, peppers, and mango in a flour tortilla served with avocado and sour cream.

Wednesday - Red beans and rice

Thursday - Fish topped with leftover romesco sauce

Friday - ?? Not sure - something fun!


Secondly, I mentioned in my birthday post that the first part of my run ended at the children's museum - Baby and I were asked to do some modeling for a website that wanted to promote the city of Chicago. We indulged them, signed the waiver and all, but never expected to actually see the photos in action. But, over the weekend during our grilling festivities, we noticed a lot of hub bub with large amount of buses and something going on. Later there was some sort of laser show or whatever it was - lots of flashing lights. We were curious so I started googling Chicago/events/etc, clicked on a random website and all of a sudden I saw Baby!! Upon further investigation, I noticed myself as well - words written across my face. Someone must have gotten the memo to "crop out any running clothed mamas" :) Here's the pic if you want to see.

Ha! This is basically my "uniform" - running clothes and a hat. It figures that I'd be dressed like this for a modeling shoot ;) I guess I can't hide the fact that I squeeze in my running whenever I can - and even use it for transportation. 

Speaking of destination running, this morning we went to the zoo. We FINALLY have warm, sunny spring weather!! So it was pretty much a no-brainer to be outside. I wanted to get in a run so we headed out early this morning and spent a wonderful morning in GORGEOUS weather seeing all kinds of animals. Baby had a blast! My favorite part was eating lunch by the sea lions - every now and then a big one would swim by, snorting water through his nose. Too funny!

lunching by the sea lions

Let's keep this nice weather coming!!

Four Mile Classic

Evening races are so fun!! They do stress me out a bit waiting for them to start - but once it's go-time, I get pretty excited. Yesterday was a GORGEOUS night for running! We had crisp air, easy wind, and even some sun! Can't beat it. Since race time was the same as Baby's bed time, my mom volunteered to help out. Actually, when my parents found out I was racing that night, they basically just showed up! I got a text saying they'd be over around noon. I cannot communicate how awesome they are! They just couldn't keep away - plus they knew I could use the help. We had a lovely day together and I felt very little stress going into the race.

My dad and husband came out to the course. My husband got in his own run prior to the start. He wanted to complete a run but also stay out of the way of the racers (they don't close the Lakeshore Path to non-participants...as I've noted before..) So when he headed out, my dad and I hung out at the start

tents in the park

my dad and I near the start

the start

The nice thing about small, local races is the community feel and lack of unnecessary processes. It was just line up and go. As I mentioned, the night was perfect for running. There were quite a few runners angling for position on that narrow path, but it didn't bother me. I just fell into line and ran a steady pace. 

runners on the course

This might have been my first race with my new garmin, and I effed it up regarding my splits. At mile one (around 9 minutes), I accidentally ended the timing and had to restart my watch. Not cool. But also not that big a deal. I just need to get over feeling like I need to know every single number. So I refrained from cursing, restarted my time, and kept it going. It was all familiar terrain and oh so flat. The course was a simple out and back, so at mile two there was a sharp turnaround. Then we headed back.

action shot of the pack

I managed to see my dad and husband twice on the course - they found each other and hung out til I finished. It was really sweet having them both there. I almost teared up when I saw them the first time. It made my think how lucky I am not only to simply be able to run, but to be running with the support of those I love most. They were there for me, and I was able to do my favorite thing. Sometimes it makes sense to appreciate this fully, because you never know what the future holds. I crossed the line with the finish clock showing about 37 minutes. I knew I was a bit under with "chip time" but it made no difference to me. I felt fantastic! We didn't dally too much, even though the race offered plenty of food and a post-race party. We had our own dinner plans - potato and cheese pierogies with organic apples sauce - which pretty much hit the spot. My parents headed home but not without a heavy dose of thank-you's!

Official race time: 36:40 (9:11 pace)

Catch Up

It's been far too long! Here's another attempt to turbo-catch up on the blog-o-sphere.

* Running is quite steady. The weather is (slowly..very slowly) improving. Not too long ago, my husband and I had a wonderful run at Waterfall Glen - known for its (regionally) famous 9.5 mile HILLY loop. We did not complete the entire loop, and instead ran an out and back on part of it. And I can confirm, it is quite hilly! It was nice to escape the city and try out a new route. More local destination runs like this one are on the agenda for spring (whenever that chooses to arrive..).

* We've also been exploring some other running paths in the city with the little one. We took her up to the Lincoln Park area to check out a new route and spend some time at a new playground. Just a simple change of scenery can really be rejuvenating. 

* Other than that, I'm just trying to keep my running consistent. We've had a LOT of rain and nasty cold, windy weather, which makes it very undesirable to run with a stroller. So I've had to squeeze in runs when we get a dry spell with temps above freezing (not kidding) and/or rely on parents to babysit. I had a fantastic run with my dad accompanying on his bike this past Monday. It was actually lovely out!

* Our nightly meals have been a little sporadic lately. Last week was very loosely planned, and the start of this week was spent in the burbs, so there has been a bit of a fallout. We've done salads, sandwiches, soup, and some dining out - which can be quite refreshing when you're always in the kitchen. We do have some grilling planned for this weekend - spring onions with romesco sauce and probably some good old fashioned burgers. 

* I am actually doing a race tonight! I haven't done too many evening races, but this one seemed pretty cool. My goals are just to enjoy the night air and take in the sights. I've already compromised my time with a HUGE lunch and several (mini) chocolate bars. What can I say? It takes the pressure off :)

Prayers to Boston

Like everyone, I was shocked and horrified at the events that happened near the finish line of yesterday's Boston Marathon. As a runner, this hit very close to home. I could not help but think of all the races I dragged my family and friends out to spectate - and how much their support and encouragement meant to me, especially during the grueling 26.2 mile races. It breaks my heart that the victims affected by this tragedy were spending their day cheering for others and showing the true meaning of selflessness. They did not deserve any of this. They were innocent and good and all my thoughts and prayers are going directly to them and their families.

Most of us are choosing to focus on the good that rose above the evil yesterday. So many people stepped in to help and do whatever they could to support. In a world where there is unimaginable horror, the good can still brightly shine through.

I spent the entire morning yesterday watching coverage of the elite races. It's so inspiring to watch some of the world's best, and Boston typically has an inspirational effect on me. Ever since I started running (16 years ago), I knew about the importance of the Boston Marathon. I knew it was The Race of a Lifetime, and I was always so happy for my friends who qualified. After watching the winners cross the line, I took Baby on a run of our own. And after some post-run playground time, we came home to clean up, have lunch, and nap. And that's when I heard about the explosions. Simply unbelievable. I spent a good part of the afternoon glued to the TV watching the horrific scene unfold. Luckily, everyone I knew at the race was safe. My Flyer friends were all checking in on facebook, and I was able to text others who I knew were spectating. But the lives lost and those severely affected by the tragedy are the ones we should be praying for. And doing whatever we can to show support - just like many of them were doing yesterday.

I hadn't planned on running today, but I'm going to pull on my Philly marathon shirt, lace up my sneakers and take Baby out on a run to support Boston. It is the least I can do, especially as a member of the running community.

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