Time is Running Away

Time seems to be flying on by... as I suppose life seems to do for me. Between working, running and growing, I feel like there isn't too much more to report. Work is great, although I haven't seen the light of day in weeks, as I've just finished a month of night shifts... I actually quite like working nights, I sleep well in the day (compared to some), but it does take it's toll because no matter how well I sleep, there is still far less of it... Regardless, I stand firm in that hospital cafeteria coffee tastes like it's freshly brewed from Italy at 3 am compared to the tar that they serve at 3 pm! Weird.

My running is still treking along... perhaps not quite as "easy" as it once was, but I still get out there every day. I'm pretty lucky that I haven't had any aches and pains associated to "wide loads", a bit of siatic pain earlier on, but nothing really now, not even low back! Bladder control continues to be questionable (you just never know...), but I'm willing sacrifice that in the name of sport. My longest run this week was 18 km, and I think that is as long as they will get (if that...) for a little while now, but I comfortably run 12 - 15 km in an hour or just over... so I'll hope to carry on with those distances as long as I can. On my off days, I find the elliptical machine at the gym a great workout - sometimes after a long shift, it's a bit easier on my body then running.

With all that said, I give myself anxiety attacks when I think about how quickly this pregnancy has progressed! I have nine weeks left, which is INSANE! Aside from flying by, and feeling great (so thankful for that!), I actually feel pretty confident that I am baby ready in all the practicial ways (crib, stroller, car seat). And I see how things seem to wind down with the excitement of pregnancy and start to ramp up with excitement to meet this little one. I'm curious what he looks like... if he'll be smart (like his mom), athlete (like mom), good looking (like mom), multi-tasking (mom), confident (mom), hard-working (mom), talented (mom)... or maybe he'll be "special" just like his dad... who's to know.... Of course, he'll be perfect for us!

Here's a picture of my growing middle - which I've heard is "little" - well it sure doesn't feel little (and according to my uterus measurements, I've always measured exact to my dates). I guess we all carry babies differently. Please note - if you touch my belly, that means I am allowed to touch yours, it's all just so awkward, so let's not touch belly's.

This was last week at 30 weeks:

A Reminder

I don't feel like this blog can just be done - especially after the momentum of my last adventure, but sadly, I don't have any new running adventures on my near horizon. And, of course, this blog is sacred to all things running and must be preserved from my new (future) life of diapers and strollersize (just kidding on the strollersize - this running mom will not be doing four-wheeled-lunges - because in my third trimester - I can still squat my body weight, and that includes my new body weight). But its hardly been over a month from my medal worthy Boston appearance and I hope that the blogging world hasn't forgotten about it... Much too soon to be put on the back burner for Winnie the Pooh!

As for a brief life update (however, secondary to the important stuff... to come) - I am officially a working girl, no more student title, no more internship, no more co-signatures. As I was told, I now have my own license to lose (that's reassuring). Some days I feel total confidence, like I can make medical decisions and intervention from my far reaching depths of knowledge, and other days I can be found in fetal position somewhere between ICU 1 and 2 in a panic-like-trance contemplating my own hospital admission. I walk across the Jubilee Auditorium stage this Friday, robed in gold (actually blue), exactly 10 years, to the week, that I did the same to recieve my High School Diploma. Funny how I've been a student the whole time.... In the baby department - I started trimester #3 this week at 27 weeks. Somehow I blinked my eyes and I was 2/3rds of the way done! I'm one of the lucky few women who literally (seriously, literally) has nothing to complain about, so yah for me (and apologizes to all of my new found enemies). Considering I have nothing to compare this pregnancy to, I don't know what my belly growth is in relation to the norm, but I've appreciated that there is nothing (well, considering) hindering me from my normal sanity-maintaining-activities. The down side, I have not been able to "blame it on the baby" nor recieve "pregnancy sympathy" in any way. I also get a moderate amount of sympathy looks, in which I can literally predict, are other women saying in their heads "poor girl, she's getting chubby - wasn't she the runner? Happens to the best of us". Oh well, if there is one thing worth giving up my sculped abs for (the abs I at least dreamt about), than this far exceeds it.

But, the only true reason to stumble across this 500 (+/-) word exert from my otherwise average life is to celebrate all things running. I think a disgusting amount of daily minutes and cyber space is wasted on blogs that are mere personal diaries - because, let's all be honest, who really cares what I ate for dinner or what I put in my coffee. The only part of my day that is worthy for public recognition were the 13 kms that I logged on my running shoes (1 hour 4 minutes, only 1 pee break, which is a record in itself). And of course, this is not to celebrate my personal accomplishment, but time well spent, by myself as well as the others who chose to celebrate with me (to name one, my 6 am running partner Zoe). With all that said, Boston was such a short time ago, and I feel it slowly decreasing in importance as my waistband is increasing. This blog posting is to put that to an end. I may not have a new and amazing training plan going on right now, something to out-do Boston, or Ironman Canada... but these legs are still a runnin' and will continue to do so (at the expense of bladder control). Aside from the obvious (LOVE it), I feel that I owe this to the sacred Boston Athletic Association, in the name of good sportmanship, in honor of my Ironman tatoo... and mostly to my 2011 Boston Marathon Finisher baby. So as per usual running report, last week I ran 20 km in 1:52, the distance remains to be my strength (I always feel like I could run further), however I feel that the pace is slowing with each run. Of course, I will gladly run any pace, as long as the trails are calling my name....

In one final blog "shout out", my bro-in-law completed his first triathlon this past weekend, doing great! We dusted off my original road bike for him, and I'm so thrilled to see that bike back out in action, cause it really served me well - but has hardly seen the roads since I got my tri bike. Stay tuned for a Jacquelyn/Leon head to head 1/2 ironman next summer.... (eat my dust...)

The Big Day in Pictures

So hard to believe that the race was already two weeks ago! Since I last wrote on here - I've run the most elite marathon in the world, finished 10 years of post secondary education, and driven up the hill for the last time to the Foothills Hospital (old job). It would appear that I like to cram everything together - but the truth is, it's almost been too much all at once. Would have been nice to enjoy each moment a bit more, if it would have been within my control. Oh well.... I start my Respiratory Therapist job on Monday, May 9th, although my week off is timely and much needed, I am incredibly excited to start up again next week - not just everyone in the world gets to work their dream job - so I will gladly be apart of the few who have total job satisfaction (remind me of this at 2 am when there is a code blue situation happening).

Enough about all of this other unimportant business though - there are far better things to talk about!!! As expected, Boston was spectacular in every way that I imagined! The city, the food, the race, the jacket - it was total perfection for me. Below is a pictor-o-blog of heaven on earth...

Arriving in Boston, the city welcomed athletes with open arms. I read somewhere that Boston brings in equivalent income from Marathon weekend as does Superbowl weekend (so they better welcome us with open arms...):

Some of the famous landmarks that I read about ahead of time, and took note of along the race route:

First things first, the food. So. Good:

Real Boston Pizza:

At the race expo, which was the best one I've ever been at (x 20 previous marathon race expo's), picking up number 13872. It was organized quite well considering I have never run in a race such as this where there are 10's of thousands of athletes. It was quite busy, but we went early on Saturday, so there was still lots of energy and goodies. Unlike a lot of other races that I participated in, I was very surprised at the level of athletes that were surrounding us! I suppose when you are having a 10 km race and a half marathon and full marathon, you can attract all shapes, sizes, ages, etc. But for this race, it really appeared that it was reserved for the best of the best, just by all of the people that were flocking through the doors of the expo (ahem... this included me of course):

The finish line, two days before the race. Glad I got a close and personal look at it cause it was pretty crazy on race day:

Fearless travel partners! This was at Boston Common, it was the first day we were in Boston, the wind was so chilly, but still sunny and beautiful. The next couple of days were ideal weather, couldn't have asked for warmer or sunnier. The backpack I'm wearing was soon filled with race expo goodies, lugging it around for the rest of the day and an entire walking tour of the city proved to be an ironman in itself! By the end of the day, it was refered to as the effin' backpack. Amoung things like Boston Common, the Financial District and the Race Expo, we also walked to the markets, through the North side and spent quite a bit of time in Harvard Square (probably our favorite for shops and food). It really was spectacular, the city has amazing history and architecture, but it helps that Alison and my interests were very similar (markets, food, shops, etc):

I took my phone with me on the run for the camera, but just didn't want to pull it out much as that competitive runner in me just couldn't succumb. I did get this picture though, at the top of Heartbreak hill, between mile 20 and 21 at Boston College. I think I'm quite a strong hill runner, I didn't feel that the Newton hills were half as bad as "they" say, HOWEVER, the down hills were killer on the knees, as "they" warned:

And of course, the famous Citgo sign, entering Boston, 1 mile left. Kind of decieving as you can see it for about 2 miles before you reach it, but was cool nontheless. I actually saw it as we were flying in to Logan International two days earlier, I didn't realize how large it really was. As you can see, many people were out cheering like maniacs, this was another pretty amazing I've never experience, 26.2 miles of complete fan coverage! I was deafened by screech tunnel (Wellesley Girls College, Mile 13), and to be honest, almost exhausted by the constant cheering (weird, I know). I will say though, running the Boston marathon is the best way to feel like a million bucks, cause it felt to me like there were literally millions of people on that course cheering just for me (nevermind the other 27000 or so runners). Kinda makes you run with your head just a little higher:

And of course, the final moments...

But... I can't seem to do anything without some kind of additional challenge. So I conquered the world's most elite road race with a baby on the way. 5 and a half months pregnant... It took me 28 years to fulfill this dream, and now my first born has completed the Boston Marathon at 22 weeks gestation. Lucky boy! Anyways, this can also be my disclaimer for a final time of 4 hours 35. I've had a perfect pregnancy and I would have given up running Boston with no hesitation if it would have been necessary - HOWEVER - please stay tuned for my sub 3:30 marathon redemption in early 2012:

Overall, this trip was amazing, I am so happy that I was able to participate in and complete the Boston Marathon. Considering that this was my #1 life-long goal, I suppose it would be safe to say that there are many emotions to process after an experience to this extent. In the past, I've even had some cases of post race blues. But it's funny how things change when becoming a parent is on your horizon. My goals and accomplishments suddenly matter far less, because I may have dreamed of running Boston, or completing an Ironman - But more significantly I always knew that I would have kids one day, it sort of seems like lifes ultimate gift... How does a medal (or 21...) mean much when in a few shorts months I'll learn a whole new meaning of love - if not already. So when I crossed the 115th Boston Marathon Finish line on April 18, 2011, I had a wonderful moment of self satisfaction, but when I meet my son on August 25th - I think then is when I really start to live.

With all that said, I HIGHLY doubt that there are any other parents in my generation who can brag about their child completing the Boston marathon. Well... I can. And... I will.

Final Thoughts

My final exam is complete, which means there is nothing else standing in my way of complete Boston take over for the next week, or month... Like most big milestones, it's often the moment of completion, or the moment of success that is anticipated and celebrated. But from my small handful of sporting successes, I think I've come to appreciate the journey to the finish line more than actually crossing the finish line. The journey certainly has defined who I am, it takes a certain personality to be interested in endurance sports (good and weird traits). I also feel as though my memories of these events are so much fuller than just the moment of completion. I guess this is what makes endurance running far more appealing to me than many other things, of course, that combined with the fact that you just can't brag about a 10 km race like you can the Boston Marathon, and I do love my bragging rights. Looking back at some of my memories: My very first marathon, nearly 10 years ago, feels like just yesterday. I didn't actually finish it. I had a stress fracture in my tibia, combined with awful ITB syndrome. At 26 km, I couldn't bare the pain any longer. My whole family, and Gabrielle, drove to Edmonton and stood in the rain for hours while I attempted, and failed, but cheered me on as though I came in first place. Dealing with those injuries made me learn SO much about proper running technique, shoes, stretching, cross training, rehabing and weight lifting. I haven't suffered a single injury even close to that since. I've been able to run two marathons with great friends. These events didn't include just race day, but 6 months of training together, long runs every Saturday morning, rain or shine, large coffees afterwards, travels to our destination races and memories I will always cherish from being apart of their first marathons. Participating in the running clinics at the Running Room, and then going on to be a group leader, and then clinic instructor also left a huge impact in my memory bank. Whether it was training people to run their first marathons and watching them rehab through and overcome all the injuries I suffered from, or watching a middle aged, lots-to-love (aka overweight) menopausal women cross the finish line of her first 5 km race (in 55 minutes) - moments like that tend to stay with you. I had the huge honor of being the clinic instructor for a "Survivors Clinic". It was a complimentary clinic for breat cancer survivors training for the Run for the Cure (October every year) in Victoria. It was such a great group of women, with some pretty amazing stories, and of course, a worthy cause. My marathons and ironmans sort of paled in comparison to their bragging rights, perhaps it was good for me... And then of course, my two ironmans. Both with unique emotions and more hard work than I thought humanly possible. But those 12 - 14 hours days leave far less of an impact on me than the months of training leading up to it. In fact, for ironman #2, I rarely think about that painful horrific day (completed ironman with shingles!) but often think of how much fun I had training for it. Anyways, give me any oppertunity to brag, and I will embrace it... All of this makes me reflect on my journey to Boston. Whether that is just in the next few days to come when Alison and I explore this new city that we are so excited about, or if that is the early morning bus ride from Boston to Hopkington in anticipation of the race. But even more so, the last 6 months, my running has been my safe haven from my otherwise stressful, face-paced life. And the last year, after qualifying for Boston, has given me a self-confidence and self-satisfaction I never thought was possible - it has defined to me that you literally can do anything you put your mind to. But most of all, the last 10 years of running - this makes me who I am. Working my way to Boston maybe took way longer for me than other runners, or perhaps is something I will accomplish in my 20's that people can only dream of accomplishing in thier 40's and 50's. It's sort of beside the point, because it was my personal milestone to reach, and I got there, through trial and error, one way or another. And although there are many people who do not feel the lure to Boston that I feel, and who do not care about anything running related (obviously these people are the boring-minimally-contributing- members of society - but I try not to judge), I'm sure everyone is driven by goals and dreams, much like myself. I just hope that everyone has the same oppertunity to journey to their dreams that I do, because this is what makes life worth living. These are the memories that are held so dear to my heart. I like to have fun, and that is what running has become for me, it is just so much fun! Perhaps it didn't take Boston to teach me this, and I'm happy to say that I will be running long after Boston (except that after Boston, I'll be running with my head held a bit higher). Like all other Academy Award winning performances, an acceptance speech always follows. Well, my journey to the start line of the Boston Marathon was my personal Academy Award, so I am entitled to my 30 second rant before the music ushers me off stage. As always, I stand firm in my belief that it takes a team for me to accomplish my goals. I will continue to mention my family as my primary support in all things I do, because I am certain I would be a failure without them. Before I have even had a chance to parent children of my own, I have learned from my mom and dad, that there is literally no better job on earth than being your children's cheerleader. They have mastered this skill with Alison and I, and once again with their grandkids - which makes me so excited to see the amazing things to come in my family's future generations (running and non runnning related - but mostly running related). Craig has survived 3 years (on May 2nd) of being married to running mayhem, and although he isn't a runner himself (missing out), I think I have successfully improved his life in one way or another with my contributions. Luckily, he's contributed equally to my life, in so many other ways. And of course, I'm saving the ultimate of experiences to share with my sister, cause it just wouldn't be right without here. Unlike the Academy Awards, there will be no music to end my rant - as this my blog, and I get to rant as long as I want. However, the sun is shining through my window and beckoning me to greater things, like perhaps a run through Fish Creek to contemplate my next journey. So, to my massive blog following (Mom, Alison...), if I can share any wisdom with you that I have learned through my accomplishments and journey's. This is my legacy, perhaps the story God put me on earth to share. Take this message home with you, it will alter your life for better:

Life is so worth living and so much more rewarding when you have definition in your calf muscles.

Big Announcement

I have big news - big enough to take a break from studying and update my blog-o-sphere! After months and months of anticipation, preparation, hardwork, dedication and research to this particular matter - I have finally decided on my race day attire. The final touches, of course, will have to wait till race day when I have a better idea of the exact weather, however, in the meantime, the basic "look" has been decided on. I'll have to leave the hoards of people awaiting this news in a bit of suspense, as I'd like to keep the details sacred to race day photo's only. Regardless, I feel a huge sigh of relief now that this is off my plate... and of course, no better way than to start the "Boston Week" than feeling this way! I write my big final exam on Tuesday, on Wednesday I'm having a celebratory dinner with my family (post exam, pre Boston marathon), Thursday I work, then Friday we're off. I'm to overwhelmed to speak to the emotions of this week - however, so SO excited! Speaking of my final exam - here is a small list of things I have managed to do this week to avoid studying: 1. Buy a new car (cause I haven't been broke enough for the last 10 years...) 2. Watch men's curling (the most BORING sport known to man - sorry Zoe and family) 3. Maul the cats with attention 4. Do the laundry, fold it, dump it out of the basket and refold it (trying to prolong the process) 5. Run just a bit further than I should for taper week (it's gorgeous outside, it was completely out of my control) 6. Stare at a wall Oh well, it will all be over as of Tuesday at 4pm! Somehow I have managed to survive every other final exam I've had to write, so I'm hoping I can dig deep enough in to the depths of my soul for just one more (well.... until the only one that really matters, licensing exam in July, but we'll cross that bridge at another time). Friends, if you are looking for me, I will have my nose in the books for another 48 hours. My new ride:

A Real Challenge

19 days. That's less than 20 and overwhelming. If I can just make it to the final exam on April 12th then I think I can let the true excitment set in! If I can take my mind off of Boston long enough to study, then perhaps I'll pass the final exam. That is the real challenge...

Golden Numbers

The Bib numbers and start times have been assigned to the Boston Marathon athletes, which I have been anxiously awaiting. My golden numbers are: 13872. I'll be starting in the 2nd wave (of 3) and within my wave I'll be in the 5th corral (of 9). I am happy to see that I am far closer to the front of the pack than I anticipated, I always expected myself to be one of those runners who just squeezed in by a few seconds... I guess I had minutes to spare, and being in the youngest age group makes my requirements the fastest. There are 27000 athletes, we are numbered according to our qualifying time (1-100 are reserved for the elite), the first wave includes numbers 100-8999, second wave 9000-17999 (that would be me) and the thrid wave 18000-27000. Each wave has 9 corrals (1000s runners each), and I'm pretty sure they are bringing the troops back from the middle east just to keep all of us "die hards" in line (literally). Heaven forbid corral #3 has 1200 athletes and corral #4 only 800! Apparently you can make arrangements to go in to waves or corrals that are behind your scheduled position, but of course, not in front. Not sure who would do this as we are systematically assigned based on our running ability (and good looks) -which would be fitting that I am in the top half (just the type of person that I always try to be...). I have to catch my shuttle bus between 630 am and 7am to get shipped out to Hopkington High School where I will be herded up with the rest of the cattle (athletes) until my 10:20 start time (but I am allowed to enter my corral at 9:35). I'm thinking my ironman experience will prove to be helpful, cause this is gonna be a long day! Especially considering I don't remember the last time I STARTED my long run at 10:20, I'm usually done well before that. Oh well, flexibility is worth it for the right cause. I wonder if it takes an additional American government of elected officials to plan the details and logistics of this race?



Our welcome packages and race number pick up cards are being sent out next week, which makes me wonder if I should set up camp in front of my mail box until it's arrival? Starting to feel all the excitment like it's really gonna happen! Also new this year, all of my fans and gathering can follow my race with the AT&T Athlete Alert. You can register on the Boston Marathon website with your email address and recieve my updates at 10 km, halfway, 30 km and finish line - you'll have to use my bib number (13872) to register.



Alison and I have yet to make our race day game plan. Although we usually have races mapped out and organized as per our "extreme planning personality disorder", this race may be a bit different. I think the mass crowds and amount of athletes might limit our ability to do to much, so once we get to Boston, we'll probably find a good landmark (involving coffee and Boston creme's) and meet there after the race. I think I'll decide on my post race victory meal closer to the time as well - the options are just to endless and overwhelming for me to address at this time.



Anyways, this was lots of information overload for me this week, and I have thoroughly enjoyed researching all the new details including future tatoo designs with the numbers 13872 (kidding). The weather in Calgary continues to be dismal, including a freezing rain run yesterday morning (more like a skate) and long, cold, snowy 30 km (5:10 min/km - just to keep warm) run today (however, the horror frost really was spectacular). Makes me think that I really need a vacation... soon, so soon! In fact, I'll be on a plane this time in 3 weeks...

Big Day

It's sad that I haven't written anything in over a month as I always have running excitement in my life. But today, it is worth it for me to take the time and update my blog on the latest... if not for my readers (mom...) but more so for the utter respect that this particular day should be granted. It's March 18th, which means the Boston countdown is officially at 1 month. It's so close, I can pretty much taste the Boston cream victory donut in my mouth. After 28 years and 2 months of dreaming of this day, I have only 30 days left to anticipate the moment that increases my bragging rights 100 fold. It's nearly as good as the real day. I chose to celebrate this milestone day with a long run (fitting), 28 km of beautiful sunny blue sky through Fish Creek Park. Unfortunately the remainder of my month long countdown will probably be busy studing and working as I finish up my last 6 weeks of intern shifts (too soon to start a countdown for that) and I write a big final exam for my Respiratory Therapy program on April 12. This only leaves me with just enough time for the bare necessities of life, like running and sleeping. But it will all be over SO soon.



Just to make this milestone day even greater, I was called today and offered my ideal job, starting a week after I finish my practicum. Of course, I accepted, and was thrilled (and will be thrilled to celebrate it tonight, friday night, by doing a 12 hour night shift). Starting May 9th, I will a Respiratory Therapist at the Rockyview General Hospital in Calgary, I couldn't have asked for a better location (in my opinion). I'm also thrilled to be getting a job, as RT jobs are challenging to come across, it's a small and specialized health discipline that tends to retain it's staff for many years. However, I am honored to be apart of it, as RT's are very well respected in the hospital, the scope of practice is very expanded, and unlike RN's I do not have to clean the bums of large overweight men and women (or underweight for that matter). I'd like to thank Calgary's ever-growing boom and health care crisis for my job, but I'd also like to mention that I worked my ass off this year trying to prove myself to this hospital that they wanted me... so I suppose all the hard work and long days/weeks/months paid off. Of the 10 students they had this year, only 4 were hired at the Rockyview, so I'll take that as a compliment. I had always anticipated that the day I was offered an RT job, I would march in to my current employers office (at the other hospital) and slam my security ID on to her desk and quit. However, I'm torn between that and crawling in to her office and grovelling at her feet and thanking her for being the best employer one could dream of for the last 5 years, for accommodating my school schedule, for spending the better part of one of my shifts last month going over interview questions so I could get an RT job, and for teaching me how much I love working in the hospital... then letting her decide when my last shift should be. So no official countdown for that job either (I do love my countdowns...).



Other than all of todays excitement - this past month, my blog has missed out of me writing about the most horrific February weather of all time (still holding on to hope that spring MUST come), lots of long runs, lots of peeing in the frozen bushes (They shut down the bathrooms in Fish Creek for the winter, it always pisses me off), a big final research paper and presentation for RT school (boring...), my neice turning 5 and making me feel like life is slipping away from us (wasn't she just born yesterday?) and me doing a 6 week rotation through the Special Care Nursery and Neonatal ICU (last shift tonight) - I've seen more babies born in the last 6 weeks than any man, women or child should ever see, that's a lot of body parts that non-baby RT's (like me) don't usually have to see. If I've learned anything from this experience (aside from neonatal ventilation, etc etc etc) - Men, when your partner is having a baby, saying things like "it's worth it", "push harder" and "it will all be over soon" actually makes me want to take my bloody glove and gown off and smother you in to a coma. Also, common sense (to me anyways) would suggest that most women will not look back fondly at the pictures you snapped of her doing spread eagle with baby crowning. Just my 2 cents.



I still have no confirmed race day attire (starting to stress about that), but I need new running shoes, so I'll have to make a very serious trip to the Running Room for a clothing game plan. And on another very important Boston note - they have changed the registration process for the 2012 race, making it more challenging for runners to enter. For the first 3 days of registration, only people who are 20 minutes or more ahead of their qualifying time can register, then the next 3 days are entrants 10 minutes or more ahead of their qualifying time. It isn't until 1 week after registration opens that all qualifying athletes can apply, this is to allow the elite feild first dibs on the elite race after this years record breaking 8 hour sell-out. Then as of 2013 Boston qualifying times will all be changed to being 5 minutes faster for each division, again to reserve this race for the best of the best. At the risk of sounding liking I'm bragging (however, I am bragging), I would like to point out to all of my readers that I did, in fact, qualify for the Boston marathon at the NEW qualifying times (5 minutes faster than my division qualifying time now), making me a legitimate "best of the best" runner. So in years to come, as Boston continues to reserve its field for the elite, I will hold my head high to say that I ran it in 2011. This does make my heart go out to all of the age groupers, like myself, who dream of running Boston, and work their tight little asses (and more so, hamstrings) off trying to get there, now that it's just that much harder... Must have just been meant to be for me this year.



Today is the one year anniversary of my condo burning down. Somehow, March 18, 2011 has turned out to be much brighter than March 18, 2010. However, if I take a moment to reflect on the past year - I clearly have nothing to complain about. Things always seem to work out for the best in my life. This also means that Craig and I are fast approaching the one year anniversary of living in our house - which despite the responsibilities of home ownership, was hands down, the best thing we ever purchased together! I still love it just as much as the first time we set foot in it.

In honor of my favorite organ...

Deep Freeze

76 days left to count down... seems like the time is flying by. It's kind of bitter sweet. As excited as I am for my big day to arrive, it seems a little bit sad that I only have 76 more days to live in the greatest anticipation that one could experience. Must enjoy every moment! While I'm on the topic of count downs... I only have 43 more practicum shifts, which in theory is only 41 cause I'm pretty sure I won't be able to make it to the April 17th and 18th shifts that I'm scheduled for, and I should have enough hours to just be "sick" (as if EVERYONE that I work with isn't well aware that I'm not sick). As for my job, I can't really say how many shifts are left as I haven't decided on a definitive quit date. I should be hearing about Respiratory Therapy jobs later this month (please send good references), in which case I will decide if perhaps I can survive one income-less month, then I will quit for the beginning of April. If my responsible, money hungry, self dominates, I'll work until the end of April. Decisions, decisions...

Last week Calgary experienced a small taste of spring. I tried so hard not to let myself enjoy it too much, as I was certain that old man winter would make an appearance again. As it turns out, he did, particularly when I woke up to -32 degrees and about 17 feet of snow this morning (and all weekend). However, for the glorious sunshiney +12 degrees week we had I couldn't contain my running legs and did two long runs, back to back, on my days off. Last Tuesday I ran 34 km in 2:55, 5:15 min/km (did not intend on that distance but just could not contain myself), then 24 km on Wednesday (approx 2 hours, 5 min/km). It was heaven. Then the deep freeze rolled around and I just couldn't consciously run in the extremely icy conditions without feeling incredibly irresponsible (please note: broken elbow from said conditions in 2007), so I succumbed to a treadmill run (shutter), only the 3rd one this winter, which is pretty good. Luckily the snow plows (aka husbands) are out in full force, and the sidewalks are clear again. Thank God! Now just to deal with the temperatures...

With my race date fast approaching, I have started to consider that my deadline for "race-day-apparel" is fast approaching. This decision is obviously right up there with husband-selection and first-time-home purchasing. This leads me to various panic attacks. Without a well thought out, tested, game plan in this situation, it really could make or break the entire future of my memory bank. Consider this: I complete Boston marathon (#1 on Jacquelyn's bucket list, life long bragging rights) wearing out-of-date, ill-fitting, clashing attire. I might as well just stay home and work those two ER shifts that I'll be "sick" for. I ran in to this problem during my Ironman seasons. I was NOT into the typical triathlon-unitard. Not that I'm against unitards, in fact, the idea of it intrigues me. The issue for me is that I suffer from shy-bladder disease and I need full on bathroom breaks (that involve actually sitting on the germ infested port-au-privy seat, after thoroughly lacing with TP) for complete bladder draining. I can't imagine having to undress and redress the unitard for every pee break. I am incapable of peeing on the bike (and yes, it does happen). I had to really shop around to find comfortable, bathroom friendly, triathlon attire. I'm also picky in the t-shirt/tank top department, as I tend to be on the warmer side (as in, prefer tank tops), but tend to get armpit "chub rub" after my bodyglide has worn off (usually around hour 2). My abnormal pain tolerance doesn't usually notice it until I have blood dripping down my side and saturating my torso. Never good for the finish-line picture. I am fairly certain that I will wear my favorite running shorts, the standard Nike running shorts, as they are my favorite and I have them in every color, so lots to choose from (by every color, I mean every shade of pink, and one pair of purple). I've never suffered from inner thigh "chub rub", which is a relief, as I definately prefer shorts to tights (weather permitting) when I run.

Not that I'm not a huge fan of Lululemon, and they have great stuff - but sometimes I do find that their stuff (although great quality) is far more fashionable than functional - low waist, daisy duke running shorts are not really functional, nor are plunging neck lines. Just saying.... But the availability of various pink hues attracts my attention at an alarming rate.

I'm not suggesting that I need to actually go out and buy a new outfit for this race (but who are we kidding... I probably will), however I do need to consider all my options and start seriously considering my game plan. Of course weather will contribute just slightly, but like I mentioned, I am a running "hot body", which is helpful for my thermoregulation and helpful for "spring weather variability". As for the post race outfit - The Boston marathon jacket debut - obviously (did I really even need to write this), laurel wreath (depending on my 1st place success, but if I'm being positive) and medal.

Alison recently finished reading the 26 Miles to Boston book that I bought a few months ago, and now she is thoroughly versed in Boston lingo which has proved helpful to make us look outstandingly cultured at various social events recently. Doesn't everyone know all about the Citgo sign? No? Well... we do.

...One mile left....

Double Digits

It's a new year, and that usually means New Year's resolutions, new gym memberships, healthy eating gallore - all that end usually around January 15th. Which is precisely why I'm not really a new year's resolution type person. Luckily, I quite enjoy the whole healthy living concept, not that I'm perfect, but enough that nothing changes for me in January. Ultimately, it kills me to not complete a goal, and it equally kills me if the goal is not truly challenging. So I guess that means new year's resolutions are just impossible for me. But I do have much to look forward to this year, so that certainly starts my year off great, with a moment of reflection.



This year I turn 28 (actually, this month - please send presents). This means that I can no longer be in my "mid-twenties", there is no more trying to classify myself in the "young adults" section... I will be an official "late-twenties" adult. Actually, I'm looking forward to it. Unlike many who dread their 30th, 40th, or 50th birthday - I can't wait to bring it on (not that I want to rush it). There are two reasons for this: 1. The older you are, the more judgemental you are allowed to be of the younger generation (I just can't wait!), but more significantly 2. An endurance runner peaks in their 30's. That's right - the best is yet to come for me. There might even be a sub 3 hour marathon in my future, we'll just have to wait and see what my age and wisdom will do to my hamstrings. I'm going to run a 100 km ultra marathon before I turn 30 - which means time is ticking.... (but of course - this year I must revel in my Boston glory, so it will have to be a 29 year old goal - I'm thinking the Elk Lake 100 km ultra in May 2012, then AR can carry me home and feed me one of her fabulous meals after!).



Also this year, I will finally, FINALLY, complete my post secondary studies. This has been a long time coming - and it is time! If I have to make another tuition payment, I will die, literally, I. Will. Die. Luckily, I finished off 2010 with my FINAL tuition payment, it felt SO good. I now await the $40,000 piece of paper that will be hanging on my wall in a few short months - the piece of paper telling me that I am competent of critical thinking (or whatever else they say you learn in school). This will also mean that as of April 30th, I will only have to work 40 hours a week (if that), to be a valuable, employed citizen of Calgary, what shall I do with all my extra time? I have decided to throw myself a graduation party, I'm not entirely sure what this will entail, but if anything, it will give me a moment of reflection on what the last 10 years of university have taught me. To name a few things: 1. I know what it's like to be broke. 2. I somehow became a coffee drinker (but still not sure if that was because of my Microbiology major, or because of the night shifts). 3. I know the entire periodic table by heart. 4. I am capable of interpreting a chest xray. 5. I may not have always been the best student in the class, but I never once failed a test, asked for an extension on an assignment or handed something in late. I met some great school friends, particularly because my theory of finding the least popular person to be your lab partner is genius. Some of the smartest people I've ever met. Only 55 more 12 hour shifts of my practicum and 34 more 8 hour shifts of my job (too soon to start the countdown?).



Lastly, this year is my Boston year. After running my first marathon in 2002, this has been 9 years in the making! In only 99 days (down to double digits!!) I will be shuttled out to Hopkington, where I will join the world's best marathon runner's for an all-to-brief show of beautiful legs. Except this year, I will be one of those marathon runners. I'll get to strut my stuff through Hopkington, Ashland, Framingham, Natick, Wellesley, Newton, Brookline, then finally.... cross the glorious finish line in Boston where I will recieve my laurel wreath - assuming I come in first place, but I'll settle for a finishers medal and jacket if I don't quite make it to first place. It's almost too much excitement for one day. I hope I can handle it.



I guess this only brings me up to the end of April, which means that 2011 will have to produce much more excitement for me, or else heaven-forbid I get bored! I'm sure there is a ton more greatness in store for my year. In fact, I am already thinking about the wonderful things I am going to plant in my vegetable garden and what flowers I will use in my pots this year. Also, the Annual Neary Family vacation will be in July this year, my usual summer highlight. Plus Christmas 2011 will be spent with a massive hoard of Neary women, when my cousins and Aunt come to the mountains for a family Christmas. That many Neary women in one place together is almost too much brillance for the very few men to deal with. I like the way this year is turning out already - 51 more weeks to enjoy!



As for my usual running report: I ran 88 km last week cause it was gorgeous outside and I only worked 3 of the 7 days, of course, I thoroughly enjoyed every spare moment I had. Now that I'm back to usual schedule and January busy-ness, I'll just accomplish what I can, when I can (which, or course, always seems to be enough to keep me sane). Today I ran 25km in 2:08, which is 5.15 min/km. I was actually shocked about this cause I was feeling particularly exhausted and I ran the entire 25km through gale force winds (literally), blowing snow, and -18 degrees with the wind chill. Sometimes I felt like I wasn't moving, but it turns out, afterall, I was actually moving. I've contemplated my Boston race plan quite a bit over the last few months, and I've come to the decision, for various reasons, that this race will be for the experience. I'm taking my camera with me, and enjoying all 26.2 miles, no matter how long it takes me. I will redeem myself with a sub 3:30 marathon on the next one.....

If we have to survive a prairie winter, then we might as well enjoy it!

Also note: You are looking at a picture of professional models: You can check out awhimsyknitter.wordpress.com for the goods