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

Season's Greetings

This is my favorite time of year - for many reasons, the food, the fun, the family, the festivities... the long runs. Christmas has so many different meanings to individuals. To me, Christmas means selling my soul to the hospital gods to get a day or two off (meaning, switching Dec 25 for Dec 31 - every year!), it means an exceptional amount of food that tastes wonderful and it means a bit of extra time and energy to be spent with family and friends (.... and longer runs). As much as getting presents is a nice thing, I thoroughly enjoy shopping and giving presents, in fact, my equally competitive sister and I have a long standing competition to give "present of the year". I've never lost (obviously), I doubt this year will be any different.

I like to keep this blog lighthearted and primarily running related (A. Because I am shallow, B. Because there are few other things than running worth talking about, C. Who really cares about the boring details of my life - other than my Boston training - I don't even care about the details). But I am going to subject my readers (all two of you - Mom, Alison...) to a very temporary and short emotional moment:

Christmas time can be very diffucult for some people, whether its due to tragedy, lonliness, stress, poor health, etc. It just seems like negative things stare us in the face so much more obnoxiously during the month of December. I've really noticed it working in the hospital, for obvious reasons. And of course, I feel a great deal of sympathy for people who are walking thru these struggles, if I could offer up any advice or support I would (however, I am highly under qualified in this area - I can however provide you with smoking cessation education). Personally, I am not faced with these tragedies, nor am I bothered with lonliness or various other negativities that surround us. In fact, I am abundantly reminded of how truly wonderful my life is. Looking back on this year - I got to spend another year (count - 2.5 years) waking up every morning (that I didn't work nights) to the man of my dreams (including his morning breath). I successfully talked to Alison (and subsequently Leon, because Alison refuses to answer) on the phone 365 days (regardless if I saw her or not) since last Christmas, and I would have it no other way. My parents showed me for the 27th year in a row what it means to be a humble, generous and kind person. I watched my oldest neice turn in to a little girl (that. doesn't. stop. talking. ever. But is next in line for brilliant-child-of-the-year-award - awaiting discovery by Ellen) and my youngest neice find joy in anything edible (after my own heart). My closest friends continue to be an extension of my family. My job continues to be my dream job. My in-laws have extended my immediate family, which is only a good thing (and oddly enough - I must be the only one in the world who doesn't have a crazy mother in law). My aunts and uncles and cousins have defined to me that distance truly does make the heart grow fonder.

In my family, we celebrate the true meaning of Christmas. And although I love a rum and eggnog, while listening to "up on the roof top" in my elf pajamas awaiting ol' St. Nick with a fresh batch of pilsbury-ready-made-chocolate-chip-cookies (cause that's as good as it gets for me) - That speaks far less to me about Christmas than something like this:

"For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the healvenly host praising God and saying: Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!"

Well, I could go on, but the emotion has exhausted me for one more year. On to equally as important details - 116 days till the best day of the year. I ran 28 km today in 2 hours 25 minutes, about 5:15 min/km. It was bloody cold - but I didn't actually notice till I got home and my frozen fingers couldn't unlock my front door (on the 1st 3 attempts). I work tomorrow night, then I have 2 (thats an entire 48 hours!) off until I return to work Boxing day for a day shift (and holiday pay - yes, it will be worth it!).

Season's greetings to the blog world. I hope that your Christmas is filled with as much joy as my Christmas is.

Learned Something New This Week

I've been working quite a few shifts in the ER lately. I love it (mostly) and I hate it. I like the excitement and adrenalin, the Forest Gump box of chocolates theory works well to explain my days, I hate giving puffers. On the wards, puffers are a nursing job (or for competent patients, an independant job), of course, I'm happy to share all the workload with the nurses, I have a special place in my heart for nurses (they work SO hard!)... but seriously - puffers??? There are one million (at least 30) RN's working in the ER and 2 RT's.



I was called to a bed in Bblock of ER (aka "bad" block - for the sick patients - but better than Fblock for the "f***'d patients - I didn't make that up, but it explains it well - padded rooms, need I say more?). They needed me to run a venous gas (probably means nothing to the majority of those reading this). When I got there, the patient looked completely emaciated, basically on death's doorstep, and quite young (30's maybe). The results of the gas were this: pH6.8, PaCO2 9mmHg, PaO2 90 mmHg, HCO3- unmearsurable. Again, what this probably means to you is nothing. What this means to me is a not compatible with life metabolic acidosis. Turns out this poor soul had DKA (diabetic Ketoacidosis), which in nonmedical terms sucks. A few hours later "patient raging acidosis" was turning around thanks to rapid fluid rescusitation, however nurses were unable to get venous blood so I was called for an arterial poke. These pokes hurt. A lot. The follow up arterial gas was still dangerously acidotic, however "patient skin and bones" had reached capacity to sustain life, so things were looking up. While chatting over me jamming an 18 gauge syringe in to the radial artery and awaiting my 1 ML of blood that was perfusing way slower than I wanted thanks to basically no blood pressure, we had a nice chat. I was wondering how a young healthy individual gets a massive DKA attack (not that I asked), but apparently the patient was wondering the same thing. HOWEVER - what I did learn from "patient-I-have-been-in-your-room-entirely-way-too-long" is that it is completely normal (in fact, common) for people training for a 10 km race to lose 30 lbs in one month and pee about 15 liters a day. Are you serious? Umm... what kind of running do you do?



On a totally seperate note: Today's run was 32 km, 2hr 48min, 5:25 min/km, -17 degreesC, fresh snow and ice followed by a 15:00-23:30 shift. Gearing up for a much needed cutback of hours over Christmas (cut back from 60 hours to about 30 for 3 weeks) and planning to get some quality time in with my new running shoes.

In honor of my favorite nurse: If you ever need a puffer - I will give it to you with the best MDI and Spacer technique that I know! In return, if I ever have urine retention, you are the only one who can place a catheter in my urethra.

Could I ask for More?

Can you see me in there? Well not yet... but I'll be in there sandwiched between my fellow spandex-wearing-highly-developed-quad-powergel-eating people in 142 days from now.

Today I ran 30 km (18.75 mi) in 2:33:54 (5:15min/km, 8.2 min/mi). My cheeks are sunburnt. My kitties were sitting by the door waiting to greet me upon completion. My feet weighed 38 lbs each due to slush absorption into the gel cushioning layer of my Asics (Does that mean they are doing their job?). Clearly, this was the best day of my week... My life is perfect.

5 Minutes of Fame

As always, I dream of updating this blog daily, but it just doesn't happen... Could be due to various factors, largely revolving around my lack of spare time. C'est la vie.

For various reasons, this year has brought many new experiences to my life, one of them being that I have aquired a very small, low key, nano-sized amount of celebrity status in my very (VERY) normal non-celebrity life. I am going to enjoy every minute of it because I can garauntee that it is going to come to a very abrupt hault in the very near future. My start of star-dom began back in March when I was contacted by a reportor from The Calgary Herald, asking if she could do a story on me about teenage obesity, weightloss, inspiring stories, etc, etc, etc. It turns out my mom had accomplished her motherly duty and advertised my story when replying to an editorial about teenage obesity, they thought it was worth a story (who knew?) and I got a whole half page with a giant picture. You can read this story here: http://www.calgaryherald.com/health/Marathoner+shares+lesson+healthy+living/2625818/story.html

Who knew that people actually read the newspaper? I showed up at both school and work that day and someone had posted the article on the wall for everyone to read. It's humbling to be the center of attention (not that I really minded it for a brief moment). Coincidentally, this article ran in the paper less than 2 weeks before we dealt with our condo fire, which was actually quite a story for Calgary. Craig and I ended up being all over the news (the media loved us cause we had a dramatic firefighter/kitten rescue and we had a pretty good sob story...10 days away from moving). The newspaper article brought about a shocking amount of attention, I got the most random emails and requests - how did people find me anyways? Someone asked me to run a race to support the troops in the middle east (what they heck? - the article was talking about teenage obesity, not my political opinions). I was asked to film an episode on "X-weighted" (aka Canada's low budget version of Biggest Loser), I never saw it air, but the thought of seeing myself on TV doesn't really excite me. Anyways, my fame simmered down until I was contacted by someone from Impact magazine wanting to do a story on me for their inspirational athlete's section. Again, I am humbled (and feeling ever so slightly awkward) cause my life doesn't feel very inspirational, it just feels like me, living my normal life, highly entertained by very simple things. My Impact story was in the Sept/Oct issue (I can't find an online link to prove it, so you'll just have to believe me). On top of all this fame (sadly, no fortune), I write a weekly nutrition article for this fabulous-high-traffic blog (it's my blog, I can advertise all I want): http://www.figandfennel.wordpress.com/ (I go by the alias Ironsister on here - as in, it's my sisters blog). THEN - I was recently contacted by someone on Calgary's CityTV to be on Breakfast TV. They scheduled me a few weeks back but I was bumped for a better story (I guess this is common for Z-list stars), as of now, I am reschedule for December 2 to talk about my opinion on staying fit through the winter months (from a normal person's perspective). If I get bumped again, I won't be offended. What on earth am I going to wear?

I say all this for one reason: I was brought back to real life this past week at a Mach 3 speed. I was quickly reminded that I am, in no way, shape or form, a celebrity runner. In fact, I am so far from it, almost like the equivalent of saying that Naomi Campbell and I are twins. Let me state the many reasons why: The world does not accomodate my running schedule. Not even a little bit. This could be seen in the fact that I work 12 hour shifts, that means I run at either 430 in the morning before a 12 hour shift, 730 in the evening after a 12 hour shift, 430 in the afternoon before a 12 hour shift, or 730 in the morning after a 12 hour shift. In Calgary, all of these options mean that it is cold and there is snow and it is dark (for 11.89 months anyways). If I was a celebrity runner, I would roll out of bed after a good long sleep in (till 630) and choose to do a run at my leisure. Next, the weather hates me. I can take the cold, in fact, I embrace it -bring it on! I can dress for it, and I have no problem looking like a complete idiot with frosted eyelashes and multiple layers, but the ice... I cannot fight it, it always seems to win. As a celebrity runner, I would live in a different climate and I would have a cleared 100 kms of private pathway to use whenever I chose. Further, senior citizens hate me. In fact they loathe me. I don't know why, but whenever I am out running and seniors see me, for some reason, they move in to the middle of the sidewalk, making it impossible for me to pass without getting a shoe full of snow (or mud puddle), and they glare the entire time. I try my very hardest to follow all of the courtesy running rules that exist, and when I see a senior citizen coming, I put on my nicest, sincerest smile ever (the same smile I give patients as I'm going in for a good deep tracheal suction), they still hate me. Also, I have come to realize that I actually yeild to pets. That's right. I have to leave the sidewalk so that another pedestrians dog can keep their paws dry and clean. I'm pretty sure that celebrity runners do not deal with this (well, I bet senior citizens hate them too, but they aren't subjected to running through seniorville on their way to the entrance of Fish Creek Park).

My list could go on and on - but the truth is, no matter how many times I have a small brush with fame, I'm just a normal girl doing a normal (somewhat) hobby. Luckily, for me, I don't do it for anyone or anything else, and every mud puddle I run through, every glaring look I get from the 75plus population, every thermal layer and odd timed run is more than worth it for me. Plus, maybe my idea of a celebrity runner isn't totally accurate...

In other important news, the Boston trip is totally and completely booked, which brings me a sigh of relief and more excitment. Thanks to my travel agent cousin, we got some great flights, and decided to extend our trip by an extra day... There was just WAY too much to fit in to such a short time, so now we are going from the Friday until the Tuesday (race day is Monday). I found us a good hotel (by good, I actually mean affordable) that is about 4 miles from the finish line, it's not ideal (See! - all the celebrity runners will be staying right downtown in the Financial District of Boston where all the action is) - but that would have required lottery winnings to afford. Although the website makes this hotel look more than adequate, I have a bad reputation for Hotel bookings as it was my responsibility to book a Hotel for a Seattle Marathon trip a few years back - it ended up being a Howard Johnson that was literally attached to an S&M store in a exceptionally low-income area. We refer to it as the "HoJo in the Hood"... I thought I would redeem myself at the most recent Vancouver Marathon when I booked us in to the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, with which we were upgraded to the Gold Club (can you say - "Way out of our league!"), but that actually made it worse because I feel like I could get used to the extreme posh-ness. Cambridge Super8 - please don't let me down.

As for training - well, I'm always in training (often for no reason). I think in January I'll think of a game plan to keep things exciting, until then, I'll stick with my usual 80 ish kilometers a week.

Tis the season for Cute-ness!

More Thoughts on Boston

It's a glorious 20 degree day in November, there are Christmas drinks at Starbucks and we gain an extra hour of sleep this weekend... There is really no reason not to feel great today, but I'm having one of those exhausted, burnt out, cannot go on for another second - moments. This happens to me periodically, I am thrilled with all of the things in my life that keep me busy and going for every waking moment - but I still have my moments. I think ultimately the shift work gets to me from time to time. I can't imagine doing an office job, or a mon-fri bankers hours type job, but the change over from nights to days, days to nights, late evenings to early mornings, 12 hour shifts to 8 hour shifts... takes its toll on my body. I may loose 10 years off my life (as studies have shown) thanks to this, but it's a worthy sacrifice, so I do my best not to complain very often. Today, I'm drawing very deep from the abyss within me to find some positivity... However, I believe the solution may be for me to take this time to meditate and reflect on the finer things in life... Primarily, Boston.



I've already documented my border-line obsessive lure to Boston, my passion to rule the roads with a Boston title, my dream for the last number of years. But there are more reasons that I am drawn to Boston. This is a top 5 list of reason's why Boston speaks my love-language:



5: I live for a challenge: Boston is a tough course, the weather is unpredictable, the 4 Newton hills are killer, Heart-Break Hill is named appropriately. I need something to keep me going, and a challenge like this is just what I need! I find that I have a certain type of personality, I like to refer to it as Type-J personality. This personality may require professional help at times, due to this sick and twisted need to accomplish random, painful yet self satisfying things. I recently purchased a book by Michael Connelly called "26 Miles to Boston" (by recently, I mean today), and as I cracked the cover with a flutter of excitement (perhaps that same flutter that I still feel after the successful procurement of blood when I do an arterial poke), my eyes welled up with fresh tears when I read the foreword by John "the elder" Kelley. Mr. Kelley is a spectator of Boston, two-time champion, 61-time participant and Grand Marshall of the race. He says this "The Boston Marathon in its present form is the greatest marathon in the world....No other marathon in the world can match the race for its color, longevity, glamour, prestige and history. This is the race that the best runners in the world want to win even above the Olympic Marathon". Dear John Kelley - I love you. You just spoke the most romantic and purposeful words that my heart has ever heard. Boston Marathon Challenge - Bring it on! Heart Break Hill - Eat your heart out!

4: The trip: Not only does April 18th, 2011 appeal to me, April 16, 17, and 19th also bring so much excitement. Much like my Ironman experiences, it's not just the day that means something, its the whole trip. I am so excited that Alison and I are doing this together, it is fitting, and perfect in so many ways. Of course, I would LOVE it if all of my favorite people could come, that I could share this history making day with everyone in my family, but reality is, travel can be pricey, it's not the most ideal time of year, and it is what it is. Craig continues to be my biggest supporter, in fact, he deserves his own Ironman medal (x2) for managing to survive living with me and all that I have to offer (aka "my moods"). His support will always be one of my hugest motivations - But Craig and I will be saving our joint trip to Boston for a more NFL season appropriate date, where we can wear matching his/hers Tom Brady jersey's and cheer like maniacs at a New England Patriots game all while getting drunk on stadium Heroin Beer. The Boston Marathon trip must be reserved for my biggest supporter since the first day I laced up a pair of Asics. Alison, who has recently taken to understanding the finer things in life, like running, understands what draws me to Boston, she talks in runners lingo, and her day of Boston spectating is as serious an accomplishment as running the course. Aside from that, we shop the same (and there WILL be shopping), we eat the same (and there WILL be eating), we both like 6am (well... I like it, she tolerates it), we have similar interests (must get a picture of us at Harvard), we finish each others sentences (which makes conversations go so smoothly) - all around, she'll be my perfect travel buddy.

3: The Food: This sort of goes without saying much more (but...I will). Boston Cream Donuts. Never had one, I've been waiting for the real things for a real long time. It's gonna happen, and it's gonna happen soon. The truth is, I'm not really a donut person, for a few reasons (health, calories, fat content, blah, blah, blah), but I'm especially not a "cream/custard/jelly - filled" donut person. I just don't like em. This will change. I WILL be eating a Boston Cream Donut, and I WILL be enjoying it. I will also be finding a way to transport a fresh one back for Craig. Aside from the Donuts, there are so many other food related events that will be shaping our holiday in Boston - Alison and I LOVE markets, coffee shops, sushi, sandwich/salad/deli bars, health food stores, desserts, etc, etc, etc. A new place, new food, new places to go - I just hope that we have enough time to cover all of our bases. It's fine if we don't - we'll make the most of every available moment that we can. I must also find a way to smuggle some real, fresh, New England Clam chowder across the border (and on a plane) to bring it home for Craig (I'm a good wife like that!).

2: The Bragging Rights: I'm going to have to put my humility on the shelf for this season -it's gonna be tough, but I'm up for the challenge. Boston is common knowledge, there are pretty few people out there who aren't familiar with the road race. So, when I say I'm registered, it's hard not to sit back and enjoy the moment. Not just everyone is familiar with an Ironman, so it doesn't always mean much when I say I've done it. In fact, there was a time once when I was training for an Ironman, and some said this exactly "Oh yeah, my sister did one of those once, it took her 2 hours!" Ummm.... that's a sprint triathlon, they don't really compare - but is it really worth sounding like a total snob and correcting the unfamiliar? I don't think so. On this note, I am actually quite thankful that there is no "Boston Tatoo" that comes with this event. If there was, I would HAVE to get it, and as it stands, I already have two tatoo's (one being the Ironman tatoo, that I HAD to get, and the other being the result of 18 year old peer pressure that I HAD to get to fit in...). This is two tatoo's more than I ever intended on getting, it's not really my style and there are only so many places that I can tastefully get inked (that are also easy to hide), I've maxed out (x2) - I really don't want to HAVE to subject myself to more permanent body art. And... now the World Wide Web is aware about the secret snob that exisits in me... darn, I've been trying to keep that a secret.

1: The Jacket: I have coveted this article of clothing for a very very long time. There are very few set things on our Boston agenda, in fact, there are only two. One - 10:30 am, April 18th, be at the start line, two - absolute first stop upon arriving in Boston - John Hancock Race Expo, Boston Athletic Association attire booth, purchase the brightest, most obnoxious Boston Marathon Jacket (by brightest I mean, most neon shade of pink available). I will be wearing said jacket in a permanent fashion from that day onward. I've seen people with these jackets before, I've been tempted to dis-robe and lay my clothes on the ground for these individuals in a sort of "Jesus entering Jerusalem on Palm Sunday" type way. It is finally my turn. Finally! Don't worry, I won't expect the red carpet (palm tree) entrance - but I won't reject it either. I'll have to bring my dad a Boston Jacket back as well - he's kind of a jacket horror, so it's only fitting.

Yup, I'm feeling a million times better already!

Confirmation!

Life is busy for me, as usual, I just finished an 8 day stretch of work, one day off, then another 6... this is normal, so I'm well conditioned to it, and I don't have too many complaints. I have enjoyed every moment of the last two weeks, because I can honestly say that there has been very few moments where I haven't had Boston on my mind. I'm sure the novelty will wear off, and if it doesn't, I may stand to lose the remaining of my few friends (those who have decided to stick with me thru this ultra-busy year), as I'm sure they will be sick of hearing about everything-Boston.... But I think I'll reveal in the moment for just a short while longer!

Until a few days after the fact, I didn't realize how incredibly close to not registering in the Boston Marathon I had come! This year was a record breaking registration year... the entry's sold out in exactly 8 hours and 2 minutes. Apparently the norm is more like a few weeks, even two months before maximum capacity is reached... in fact, I know that the Las Vegas marathon is historically a favorite for Boston-wannabe's, it runs on the first weekend of December every year and is the last qualifying race for the upcoming April Boston Marathon. I guess if that is someone's plan this year, they won't have any hope at all. On registration day, I was actually working at 7am, the same time that online registration opened. Being the Boston virgin that I am, I didn't really know what to expect for the registration process. I didn't really think it would be a huge panic to register at 7am on the dot... but yet I didn't want to risk it. For my first Ironman, I lined up at 3 am, with a massive crowd of other hopefuls, and waited paitently until 9am when registration opened. That year, the 2007 race, was the 25th anniversary, so it was projected to sell out in record time. The stress of that Penticton trip aged me a good 3 additional decades! It's quite an emotional commitment (let alone financial!!!) to plan for these events, and I particularly loath things that I don't have complete and utter control of, so until confirmed confirmation is in my hands, I don't sleep, I have hot flashes and I feel particularly irritable. I sailed through the Ironman registration and was confirmed by about 9:15 (sadly the damage was done, as seen by the additional lines on my brow). As for Boston, I couldn't handle the stress of missing registration, so I got team-Boston leader Alison to fulfill her sisterly duties and register me. Alison is incredibly organized, worked as an executive assistant to a government cabinet minister, holds a Master's degree, etc etc etc. If there is one person in the world who won't let me down.... it is her! But she failed, and she failed miserably (luckily to redeem herself in glorious triumph). As an incredibly amazing turn in my fate, I was only working an 8 hour shift this day and I slipped out of work about 10 minutes earlier than usual, about 2:55. I have a usual routine when leaving the hospital (everyday), I turn my phone on for the first time after 8 or 12 hours, and before checking various important things (like facebook), I always call Alison. Usually to check in, debrief the day, sometimes I offload a million things (aka "bitching"), and mostly to hear if there has been any breaking news (on TMZ) in the real world that I missed while being consumed in my hospital world. When she didn't mentioned anything about Boston registration, I was a little bit confused, because I was certain that it is ALL that she thought about ALL day (just like me)... eventually we got there.... and for the first time in her life - Alison forgot to do something (potentially at my expense... panic... stress induced aging commences....). We hung up, she immediately registered me, called me back, we laughed about it, and then carried on with the more important details of the day. It wasn't until later that I learned that Alison was LITERALLY 4 minutes away from the cut off time. I just gained another wrinkle by writing that! The stress still sends me in to a third degree heart block - and my registration has actually been confirmed! Oh my gosh - I just re-read the sentence and I feel the skin under my chin sagging! The stress! Can you imagine!?!? I would still trust Alison to do anything for me - she redeemed herself (and more!) when I recieved this in the mail exactly two weeks later:




Arrived via first class mail, direct from Boston: the word's I have been dreaming to read my entire life. Let the celebrations begin, because it is official. There is no turning back.

My demographics - It states that my citizenship is American here, which has been since been corrected - otherwise those are the details that will forever be with me Qualifying Time: 3:35:17


Even the cats couldn't contain their excitment (as per usual daily routine when I pick up the mail and they immediately sit on it).

Boston Bound!

It's been a long time! So let me update my blog-o-sphere on the last year of my life in one paragraph or less:

Last fall/winter was fairly uneventful and unexciting, which eventually led way to the high activity and excitment of my spring/summer. In March Craig and I bought our first house, after searching for the perfect place for us to move our family of four (2 humans, 2 cats), we found our dream home (our dream home for now anyways....) and were thrilled with the sale of our condo (3 days on the market!). 10 days before "move out of condo/move in to house" day, our condo building went up in flames and that was the end of that chapter. This led to A) the worlds easiest move known to man (2 cars, 2 cats and that's it) B) a massive insurance claim and C) a very fond (and gracious) reintroduction to my account with "The Bank of Dad" (for the millionth time in my short 27 years). LOTS of shopping and then some more shopping found us settled in our new place just in time for me to celebrate my 2nd wedding anniversary and my 20th marathon on May 2nd in Vancouver. After 20 solid attempts, I qualified for the Boston Marathon with a 3:35 marathon, and I got to celebrate with Alison as she ran her first half marathon! June brought me to the start of my final year of a decade worth of post secondary education, which is being spent working full time (12 hour days/nights) as a Respiratory Therapist Intern at the Rockyview General Hospital (by intern, that means, I pay tuition, work full time, and not get paid for it.... which is really just so great). I'm continuing with my job at the Foothills Hospital in the mean time, working 2 days a week for a total of 60 hours a week in Calgary hospitals. Luckily... I love it. In August we went on our annual "Neary family vacation" to the Okanogan, which proved to be, as always, the best week of the year.

Today, on October 18th, Calgary is waiting with great anticipation for the announcement of our new mayor and city council. However, this day has SO much more meaning to me than I think I can even fathom. While many were out with their "Barb is the Best" and "Nenshi or die" campaigns fighting to the last second, I was awaiting 7am when the 115th Boston Marathon registration opened. While so many people are concerned with the future of our city and things like ring roads and airport tunnels, I think the truly important message from today is: What am I going to wear, in 6 months from today, when I line up at the start line for the Boston Marathon?

I've missed writing this past year, as I thoroughly enjoyed this blog (knowing fully that the only person who actually reads this is my mom - which I'm ok with). And what better reason to start my online diary again, than perhaps accomplishing the greatest goal and journey of my life to date! I have dreamt about the Boston Marathon for years. I have run 20 marathons, over 7 years with one ultimate goal in mind. My two ironman finishes, pale in comparison to qualifing and running Boston. This is the absolute and number 1 thing on my bucket list. It almost brings a tear to my eye thinking about.

Aside from being the most prestigous road race on the planet, and aside from being known for it's incredibly challenging course - It is with great humility that the running community of the world looks at Boston marathoners in a whole new light. Some may say that a "real" runner is one who has lost their toe nails to longs runs (check), or one who runs in minus 30 degree Calgary winters (check). Perhaps a "real" runner is known as someone who has accomplished a 10 km race (check), or half marathon (check) or marathon (check) or 50 km run (check) or even an Ironman (check, check). Others think of runners as ones who have placed in the age groups and won races (check), people who eat nasty gooey things (check), people who wear spandex 30+ hours a week (check), people who join run club and have the token running room reflective jacket (check). But as an aspiring runner and one who has dreamed of being a "real" runner - let me tell you the truth. The only people out there who are the real deal, who can wear the title of runner, and wear it proud, the only ones that deserve right of way on the pathways, the only ones who Sunday morning run club should yeild to, the Obama's of the running world - These people are solely Boston finishers. No matter how much I want it, and how many miles my feet have carried me over in the past decade, and how much I've dreamt about it, I am not a real runner - not yet anyways. But let my countdown begin, because that day is coming for me, it's so close, I can almost feel the victory melting in my mouth, almost like the taste of a Boston Cream Donut (which I intend to be eating at the time of my victory). My life is pretty close to perfect, but on April 18th, 2011, I think my life will reach it's own personal definition of perfection.

Don't get me wrong - I am WELL aware that I am just a recreational athlete. I will never go to the olympics, or anywhere near it. I will never be known as a famous runner, I will never make money doing it. My name will never be a household name. I will never represent Canada, or any other country, as an athlete. I know I am just an average person, with an average goal. I know that there are 20,000 people who run the Boston Marathon every year, I know that there are about a bazillion people who could run circles around me. But for me, in this life, this represents so much more to me than any of those other things I mentioned. This represents an unrealistic goal, that with a lot of hard work, a lot of time and a lot of wonderful memories, somehow became a realistic goal. Put me in a room with other athletes and I am very quickly humbled - but for just one sentence and one nano second, the selfish, prideful, self satisfied person in me wants to gloat. I rock!

It only seems fitting that my sister joins me, like she has for every other marathon I've run, and we celebrate together as I show the world (my world) that this chubby teenager is actually a REAL runner. This will be my diary of training and my thoughts on running while I prepare my body for the ultimate in running... The Boston Marathon!



Proof I'm still alive: Pre Vancouver marathon (and qualifying for Boston) with Alison (1st half marathon), Dani (first 8 km), Jen (first half marathon) and Whitney (first marathon)

Healthy

Every year at Thanksgiving, we have a family tradition to go around the dinner table and say one thing that we are thanful for. This usually turns into something comical and is mostly done to please the highly emotion women of our family (mom). This past year, I got to start, which meant I had the oppertunity to steal all of the good choices first... I always feel sorry for the poor sucker at the end of the table who has to think of something original after going through 12 other people's ideas of why we are thankful. I was going to choose family or friends, and then screw everyone else up because secretly that is what everyone else was hoping to say... but I said I was thankful for good health instead. Don't get me wrong, I'm still pretty sure I made at least 6 out of the 12 people have to rethink their ideas, because obviously we are all thankful for our health, and obviously this seems like a very easy, somewhat thought-less answer to the Thankful question.

I've thought about this quite a bit since Thanksgiving though. Perhaps we don't give quite enough credit to how truly blessed we are. It's very easy for me to think about health in terms of kilometers ran, negative splits, and supersets. If this is the case, than I am very thankful. Although I work hard for it, I guess that means I am very healthy, cause I think my body could run forever, I am confident that I can lift my own body weight, or more, my heart works efficiently, my lungs don't tire very easily and frankly... I have buns of steal! Luckily, I love doing what I do, and that's exactly why I do it, however, it's only a very small contributor to my overall health. Although I enjoy the benefits of having a heavy-duty-pumping machine (aka healthy heart), if I were to drastically reduce the amount of exercise I do in a week, I would still be blessed with good health... great health.

I work in the hospital, and I'm studying in the health care field, so I have definately been exposed to sickness and disease, on a daily basis. I've seen otherwise healthy people freakishly die, I've seen people who are far too young die, or become dibilitated in some way or another. I've seen people suffer with permanent handicaps, I've simply seen just a lot of suffering. Of course, no one ever deserves to be sick or diseased... Well... Almost no one.... (there - I said it, it's mean, but we were all thinking it!). There are times when people bring illness on themselves (hello to all you smokers out there), but far more often than not people just get sick. I suppose UB is a great example of this, I don't think he could have done anything more for his health, his lifestyle should have had him crossing an Ironman finish line in his 80's.

I don't really know why things happen the way that they do... and that in itself requires an entirely different blog (and different author!). However, I do know that in the mean time, I plan to cherish every day that I have good health as I would consider it one of the greatest gifts of all time. I'm not going to turn into some chemical/germ/microbe free crazy activist who only wears organic cotton and never showers cause even that is harmful... but I am going to continue to do my best, my very best, for as long as I am alive to care for my body. And every single day that I wake up and I can breath on my own, and my heart pumps blood on its own, and my legs move and my brain remembers, I'll be thankful for. Because one day, IF something were to ever happen to me, then I can have peace of mind knowing that I took care of my gift to the best of my ability... anything else is just plain old bad luck (or whatever else one chooses to believe...).

Primarily, as a reminder to myself, but perhaps a good reminder for everyone, this is a list of PRACTICAL things that I think are crucial for every day living to ensure optimal health.

10. Our body is largely composed of water, we need it, and we need a lot of it. 8 glasses a day minimum, however we require an additional 2 glasses of water for any alcoholic, caffinated or high sugar content beverage we have. Also to be noted, I'm pretty sure a venti starbucks size is 20 ounces, so thats equivalent to 2.5 glasses therefore 5 additional glasses of water. Don't know about you... but this will make me spend 3 out of my 24 hours in the day peeing. Not worth it.

9. Stress is a killer. It will eat away at you from the inside-out. Eliminate it. Eliminate NOW. The best way I can suggest eliminating it is to quit your job, move into the mountains and live off of the land. If that's a bit to extreme, may I also suggest simply rethinking life priorities (If Dr. Phil can give professional advice, then so can I!)

8. Get a cute, fluffy, smooshed-in-face cat and name him Bedford.

7. Ensure that there are children in your life. They are the best way to keep you young, make you laugh, and teach you about the real miracles in life (disclaimer, they may also be the cause of previously mentioned stress... in this case, I revert back to point #8).

6. Plan your wardrobe so that every single day of the week you have a minimum of one pink item included in your outfit. It's been rough for me, but Respiratory Therapy students are required to wear red scrubs (SO excited to graduate!), so I have large amount of pink underpants to choose from on a daily basis. On my days away from being a student, and just working at my normal job, I ensure that I wear pink scrubs from head to toe.

5. Excersice daily in some capacity. If you're like me, than you have a well thought out exercise plan that involves each muscle group, heart rate zones and you think in Watts. If you're like every other normal personal in the world, 20-30 minutes of an increased heart rate is all you need. So simply, take the stairs, take your kids/pets (really, is there a difference?) for walks, go to the gym, join a club, get a hobby...etc etc etc.

4. Eat clean. It's easy to get very hard core in the food department, and I'd say I'm borderline, however, conveniently for me, I enjoy cooking, I learned quite a bit about nutrition when I studied nutrition (go figure), and my sister is an even better cook, and equally as conscious in the same area (and I help myself to her fridge on a regular basis). On that note, it's easy for food to turn into something that controls your life (hello point #9!), and it's very easy for food to turn into a reward or a punishment. This isn't really a healthy way of looking at food, and probably defeats the purpose of healthy living. I like to look at food as fuel for my body, so I want to fuel myself accordingly. I find this helps me make really good choices the vast majority of the time, but I don't feel like choices are weighing over my head like there is a "right" and "wrong". Anyways, this is a lesson that took me many years to learn, and I'm sure many more years to come to perfect... but it's been a rewarding journey.

3. Surrond yourself with good people/friends. This requires little explaination, aside from me saying that I am SO rich with friendship (I'm stealing Alison's quote on this one). If friends were worth money, I'm pretty sure people would nick name me "money bags" and I'd give Bill Gates a run for his money (so punny! hahaha). I might not have a lot of friends, but the ones I do have are keepers! People who are loners, or who live alone for too long turn into weirdo's... this simply cannot be good for one's health. On that note, people who hang out with mean people... turn in to mean people (also hazardous to ones health).

2. Get enough sleep. We need 8 hours a night and I'm pretty sure the world is FULL of sleep deprived people. If you've ever been cut off in traffic in that morning commute, or had a grumpy cashier at Safeway... I can almost garuntee that they didn't get eight hours of sleep last night! Unfortunately, I need some work in this department (a lot of work). Although I think I function well off of little sleep, I'm sure Craig would beg to differ. That said, I am a shift-worker, and studies have already shown that I will lose 10 years off of my life thanks to this. Oh well... I'm taking one for the team...

1. Laugh every day, in fact, laugh every hour. People who are too serious age faster and look ugly (my opinion anyways). Combining all of the above points does not make it very diffucult to find reason to be joyous. From my experience, this is the easiest thing of all to do to stay healthy. Studies have shown that 1 hour of extreme laughter instantly vanishes wrinkles. It's true - I'm pretty sure I read that in the Bible somewhere too (not quite sure which version - maybe something a bit more contemporary like The Message).

I'm so very very very grateful for my health. It's one of the worlds greatest gifts, and the only way that I know how to thank God for this gift is to take care of it.