Running: 6 Reasons I Don't Race Anymore

Many of you have told me you started reading this blog back when Stephen and I were running all the time. You loved the running and racing tips and tricks I used to write. There are definitely a good number of posts on here dedicated to the novice and even advanced runner. (I didn't write those advanced ones -- Stephen did!) Regardless, some of you have asked over the years why the running part of the blog is somewhat quiet.

And, really, I suppose I haven't addressed it directly. Or maybe I have and just don't remember. In short: We had kids, so there's that. And Stephen started coaching both cross country and track for his high school. That takes a lot of time during the week and on weekends when we used to be training. Do we still run? Heck yes. But -- and I can only speak for myself here -- I have many reasons why I've stopped racing in formal events.

1.) Cost

First and foremost, we have a family now (did you know? LOL). You guys know how much I write about our budget. With adding little ones and choosing to work from home, we've taken a financial hit. Not in a way where we cannot afford basic necessities. But running can be an expensive hobby, as much as we'd like to pretend it isn't.

There's the shoes. I only get like two pairs a year, but Stephen needs more because he wears his out quickly. (BTW: I wearing these Nike Free Distance shoes lately -- they are probably my favorite shoe I've ever had. If you're interested, let me know and I'll do a review of them for you!)

Racing is -- yup -- yet another cost. In fact, this morning I got slightly inspired to run the local half marathon. Mostly because it would give me an excuse to run 13 miles next weekend. But it's $80. Not the most expensive. But I immediately thought about how that could buy two takeout meals at our favorite restaurant. Or a week's worth of groceries at Aldi. And if you don't think running impacts your grocery bill, I don't know what to say. We eat a lot if we're training high mileage.

2.) Time

I hate to use my kids as an excuse, but you simply have less time with a family versus being single. I know moms who get up at 5AM and work out. Or who work out late. I get up at 5AM to work these days, so that's out. (Working from home with just one child is a piece of cake. Two or more? Nightmare. I'll write more about this soon.) I often work after the kids go to bed. I can jog with the stroller (here's how to start), but it's much harder so I only do it a few times a week. And with Stephen gone so much, our family time is at a premium.

Time is one reason I've put the marathon training on hold for the time being. I started it up when we weren't in a coaching season. Sunday long runs were awesome. Now that I'm alone with the kids almost Monday through Saturday, Sundays have become sacred. We both still run, but I'm less inclined to go over 10 miles. And I'm OK with that. I actually love feeling energized on the weekends. When I used to do back-to-back 10- and 20-milers, I'd need to basically lay on the couch a lot.

I guess as a sub-reason, races aren't the most convenient things either. With nursing, I'd have to pump. I don't like pumping and Eloise doesn't take bottles. I also don't think my kids want to be dragged to events. Maybe ever so often, but not weekly or several times a month.

3.) Flexibility

There's something beautiful about shedding the rigidity of a training plan. It makes you feel so much less guilty for missing runs if you're sick, injured, or whatever else. It lends to a more balanced life. Of course, having a bit more discipline would probably have me a bit trimmer and fitter -- but I'm favoring moderation in all things these days.

If the weather is really crappy -- whatever. I'll run later in the week. If I'm just not feeling it, I'll take an hour-long restorative walk. Or do yoga. Or go see a friend. The thing I'm not doing is fretting about missing my miles because I've got a race coming up. I remember trying to trudge through with bronchitis to meet my weekly mileage and getting even sicker as a result. Or feeling really cruddy because my legs were like dead weights. I know that pain is change, but I'd rather just feel good, be active, and be slightly less bad-ass.

4.) Desire

Yeah. My actual desire to run races has certainly waned. I was never one to do them to collect race swag or metals or shirts. Honestly, I have never really enjoyed the act of racing. It was more of a compulsion to get better times. That's OK. It doesn't make me any less of a runner. There's a certain thrill that comes with achieving a new milestone, like a half or full marathon. I've been there and done that. It doesn't thrill me anymore, so the desire to chase that feeling isn't there as much.

I think it's awesome when other people do events and I can tell they are getting a huge emotional boost out of it. I could take or leave that feeling. Of course, it's nice to feel like you've DONE something. But I ran two half marathons in March on my own (well, with my buddy -- but we weren't in an organized race) and still felt pretty awesome.

5.) Motivation

I guess this goes with motivation, too. I'm not motivated with my running to achieve a PR right now. I would like to get faster, but in the years before we had Eloise, my fitness took a dramatic turn. Having multiple miscarriages can really do a number on the body. I kept active throughout it all, but with being pregnant, not, having surgery, etc. -- my race times just aren't what they used to be. You'd think that would give me more motivation to "get back" . . . but it doesn't.

I'm cool with chugging along between 8:45 and 10 minutes per mile, depending on the distance and hill factor. Maybe this summer I'll find myself doing some repeats on a track. Maybe not. I think my motivation these days is much more mental. I get a lot out of just logging the miles and taking the time for myself.

6.) Zen stuff, etc.

Which brings me to being a Zen runner. I won't lie -- I do track my times lately. It's more about tracking my total steps (more on this soon!). I would say in the past, though, I more often than not did not wear a watch on my runs. I would rather map out the distance in Google maps ahead of time and finish. I get so much from just doing the run. I don't really care so much about the stats. Sometimes I do. You know how it is.

Running is my happy place. I do it to do it. I do me. You do you. But if you don't want to race, that doesn't mean you're not a "real" runner or nonsense like that.

* * * * * * * * 

Anyway, the biggest and best reward for all my years of running came this weekend. (This is about the photo above.) Totally unprompted, Ada came up to me as I was lacing my shoes and asked if she could go running with me. She got all dressed and we ran a mile together in a little under twelve and a half minutes. The whole time, I could tell she was so proud of herself. We finished, she gave me a high five and was just BEAMING with excitement to tell Stephen all about it.

And that's all I really need!

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Running These Days

I know some of you are probably wondering if running will ever make much of a comeback on this site. The answer is yes . . . and no. When I started writing, I was in the thick of my craziest high-frequency racing phase. We would spend most weekends running local events and sign up for all sorts of bigger races up to the marathon distance. I probably used to do 20 some races a year, and I loved every minute of it. Because I had lots of minutes to spend.

After we had Ada, a lot of things changed both with circumstances and mindset. We aren’t able to travel as frequently, sleep is sometimes elusive, and money is tighter for extras. Stephen still kills it at lots of races near and far. And I, too, started out getting into running and racing again less than two months postpartum -- a 10K in 51:25. Stephen lapped me that day. Jerk.

I tried continuing my usual pace with racing for that whole first year, often pumping and dumping before the start, doing long runs during naps, and otherwise finding all the time I needed to get back out there. I did a solid job. But somewhere along the way it stopped being as important to me. And I don’t consider that defeat.

What’s funny is that nothing with my training frequency has really changed. I still run just as many miles as I used to, depending on the season. Granted, I’ve scaled back a bit recently while we’re TTC and plan to treat running much differently in pregnancy #2. But I had been running 30+ miles a week, which is pretty normal for me. I still keep up with a few key events and try to run at least two half marathon races a year to keep my motivation up. I’m still PRing most every time I lace up, but the act of racing itself holds little excitement for me anymore.

You could say my running is silent, but not stagnant.

And I sort of like it this way. Whereas I used to track my times and blurt it out for everyone to see, I’m hugely content heading out sans watch and not even tracking my mileage for any given week. I have a loose training diary online, but I keep forgetting to enter data into it. I know I’m keeping up, and that’s really all I need at this point. Running gives me something big . . . but it’s far different than it used to be. A healthy body, yes, some times to feel good about, too, but the mental and spiritual aspects are much more important these days.

So, if you’re like me and you run a blisteringly fast 10-miler but no one is there to see your time or plot your route, it’s just as important. It still happened. You’re just as much a runner if you’re not out there pounding the pavement every weekend and pinning countless race bibs onto your tech shirts. To me, running is all about me -- my journey apart from anyone else's. It gives me time to think. Time to celebrate myself and my physical accomplishments.

Yay, me!


I have this strong sense of security by now that I’ll have running with me for life, barring any physical ailments. I don’t know if I felt that way back when I was racing all the time. I want to keep a steady stride into the next several phases of my life, and I think evolving my way of thinking about the sport is all a part of that. Or maybe I’m just soft and have lost my competitive spirit.

Whatever the case, I’m extremely happy and moving my body. I feel good in my body -- head, heart, and bones. I’d say those far less tangible prizes are better than more race metals cluttering my closets! And who knows, maybe the tide will change and I’ll go crazy racer again. I’m up for anything so long as I’m still running.

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10 Seconds Too Many

The thing is . . . 5Ks are always (always!) the hardest for me. Speed isn't my forte, especially since I don't engage in much formal speed work. Rather, I do surges -- fartleks -- whenever the mood strikes. Some weeks that's often. Others, not so much. As you guys know, I've been training on lots of hills lately, so I had some high hopes for my finish time at last night's Women's Distance Festival 5K.

Namely, I wanted to (finally) break 22 minutes.

My best friend from home -- Erin -- started running in January. She's been doing all sorts of races lately, but since she lives in the endless, winding mountains of PA, they've all been far too steep or on tricky terrain (trails, etc.). So, she drove up to join me and see how she might do on a flat(ish), fast course. It was such a treat -- and we both turned 31 within a few days of one another, so I guess you'd call it our birthday celebration.

I think the reason 5Ks wreck my soul has something everything to do with the intensity of them. Since I'm relatively low-key with my training, having to immediately start at my gut-wrenching pace and maintain it as long as possible doesn't sit well with me or my psyche.

It's all just too much!
It's all too painful!
It's all too split-second!


I thought maybe I had 21:XX in my grasp last night when I hit the first mile at 6:50. All things holy! That amazed me. Though I don't race much anymore, I still train hard and run consistently (4-5 days each week) throughout the year. I've just reached this place with my running over the last several years where I don't need race medals and finish line photos to feel strong, steady, and confident in my abilities.

But hearing a fast mile time doesn't hurt every now and again.

I'll write more about the play-by-play on WalkJogRun for next week, but -- spoiler alert -- I didn't meet my goal. I finished in 22:09 or 7:08/mile. That's a PR by 9 seconds and only 10 seconds away from my goal, but certainly 10 seconds too many. So, of course, I really want to try again in the next couple weeks to see if I can tweak a few things to get my time.

We shall see.


Now, Ada doesn't come to a lot of our races. I run mostly half marathons, and that's just too long for her to sit still. Stephen did bring her to this one because it's all women + lots of other kids are there to play + celebrate the fine sport of women's running. OK. The kids have absolutely no idea what's going on beyond the race before them. They just know there's a sand box, lots of baked goods and candy, and that all the dads watching let them get away with a bit more when their moms are occupied with the race.

This year was special, though. Ada "laced up" to the start of her very first race. She was so excited! I was so proud! This was to be such an amazing moment for the two of us to share. A passing of the torch! Proof that I'm rubbing off on her. That she's getting some athletic prowess from my amazingly inspiring abilities. And all that jazz.

Or not. The poor thing ran for around 15 seconds and then waved hello to a cute puppy. Puppies are her downfall. She loves them to pieces. And after she gave an enthusiastic greeting, BAM. Ada fell teeth-first into the pavement. Crying ensued. I felt . . . terrible. But it was no one's fault. She escaped physically unharmed and a cookie cheered her up quickly.

At least we got a great photo.

(We all know how photos don't tell the whole story!)


For both of us, there's always next year! And I want to give Erin a hearty congratulations. She SMASHED her 5K time by like two full minutes.

How do you feel about 5Ks? Do you have a race event nemesis? 

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Training Seasons + My Winter Running Goal

Exactly two years ago -- when I was around 34 weeks pregnant with Ada -- I dramatically slowed my running. I decreased the frequency of my workouts, the speed, and the distance. All of it. At the time, I had mixed feelings. Running was so much of my identity. Seemingly one of the few things left that was mine and mine alone as my body had changed + softened and my mind had filled with thoughts of baby 24/7.

However, running had also become progressively uncomfortable at this stage. Not painful, but the pressure on my bladder wasn't pleasant. The energy I had in the second trimester had waned. My muscles and motivation didn't recover so quickly. I could have pushed harder, yes, but ultimately decided to give my body the break it was telling me it needed. I jogged barefoot miles on our treadmill and favored long, brisk walks and prenatal workout DVDs.

Somehow my mind transformed to the maturity of a 12-year-old about this change. I worried I'd never EVER be fit or fast AGAINNNNNN. That taking a break would somehow be the end to something I had fought so hard to continue, to prove to myself that I could maintain. I worried I'd never regain the competitive spirit or stake claim to the activity that allowed me to think, to feel strong, and to exude body confidence.

So, it's been a long journey, but here I am today, having gone through varied seasons with my training -- from not running at all after birth or very little due to discomfort/newborn sleep to PRing at all distances from the 5K (22:18) to half marathon (1:44:25). I'm happy I've reached a good balance with training/life, but sometimes I wish I was more motivated. My younger self could stick to training plans 99.9% because I had the drive and (all the) time (in the world) + limited responsibilities outside my desk job.

Honestly, it also seems when I became a mom, my competitive spirit took a back seat, for which I have no excuse other than not putting as much value on it. I don't necessarily miss the urge to push myself to the max or that distinct craving for new PRs. To prove to myself and, of a strange, chief importance, to others that I'm a badass athlete.

I guess you could say I've mellowed. Maybe it was the mom-factor or perhaps it was turning 30. I'm aging like a fine wine. I sort of revel in this new sense of centered-ness that comes from within. What I do miss, though, is consistently making time for something that is mine, and that's what running is to me.

I knew a new goal was in order, but after years of training for half marathons with the same old plan, anything else seemed too much/risk of injury (marathons are murder for my IT-band) or too little/too intense (hello, my love/hate relationship with 5Ks!).

It's hard to break out of a rut, isn't it?

Anyway, I guess this post is just a long-winded way of declaring that my new goal is to run a winter 10K in 46:30 or faster. I'm going to follow a more advanced plan that's challenging, but far different from the plans I've grown accustomed to. That photo above is from my run last night. I'm ready for speed. I'm excited to try something new. I'm also looking forward to carving out more time for myself as a runner and mom. I don't do enough of it. And I'll write more soon.

What are your cold weather training plans?

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Half Marathon Plan + Reader Question

Lauren asks:

"So many of my friends and so many bloggers I follow seem to do races almost every weekend. I have done a few 5ks in the past, but I don't have any plans to do anything soon. I don't enjoy racing much, though I have been happy with my finish times. I don't have the money either, as I am in graduate school at the moment. Do any runners run, but not race or race infrequently?" 

Interesting question. I haven't talked much about my race plans for spring. That's probably because I don't have terribly many. I used to love lacing up to the start, getting in a good effort, and enjoying that feeling of success after crossing the finish. For whatever reason, I just haven't been enthusiastic about racing this year. 

There's really no reason I can think of. It's been a bit less convenient and more stressful adding Ada to the mix. Trying to get childcare and getting in consistent training. Money has been an issue for us, too. When we added up what we used to spend on racing, we were floored to say the least.

In my opinion, I don't think there's any requirement to run races as a runner. It may feel like you're missing out, and in some ways you are and you aren't. Racing gives you an opportunity to connect with other people who are passionate about the sport, to put yourself to the test and see hard work pay off, and to have something to work toward with your training.

RUN FOR FUN

I don't think there's anything wrong or lame or silly about running for fun. Even if that "for fun" includes some serious speedwork and long distances. There's no reason you can't run for your own goals and aspirations without having to prove it somehow to the running gods on a specific day or course. And if you want to connect with other runners, you can do that with a running club or friends.

My own racing frequency has gone down from running maybe 20 races a year to just a handful. I'm still running or beating my old times and still holding onto a consistent running schedule. I feel great and I have little plan to change or do more in the near future.

I also have a hell of a lot more free time on the weekends and just a little more money in my pocket, which I'll take at this stage in my life. That all being said, I'm running a half marathon the first weekend of May.

Here's my training plan.


At the time when I wrote this post originally, I was all set to run Saturday's 5 and Sunday's 12. Then i got super sick. So, I'm already seeing that I'll need to bend/adapt. It's possible to still be OK and miss key runs, but it's not ideal.

My goal is to run under 1:45. I don't know how well I will be able to stick to those pace runs because that type of training is new to me + as I mentioned, things just come up. And I have opted to include a nice chunk of cross-training because I am loving the pool and the opportunity to take yoga classes through our gym.

FLEXIBILITY IS KEY

It also gives me some flex if I do miss a long run or other important workout, I can skip the cross-training and replace it with whatever I missed. If you have kids or other large responsibilities at work or school, you likely understand how stuff comes up. Ada and I both have nasty colds this weekend (must have caught it from Stephen last weekend!), so I may have to push my long run back, etc.

If I have unlimited time to work out, I'd probably do a bit more running and fit in the cross training by doubling-up. I used to spend hours working out, but time is at a premium. I am really happy Stephen and I been able to find a relatively good balance.


Thanks to Lauren for her great question. I'd love to know your thoughts, too.

Do you love running, but hate racing? Or is your budget tight and not allow room? Or any other similar circumstance?

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6 Habits of Highly Annoying Racers

I feel like I already wrote this post . . . twice. But really, I'm just easily annoyed. Especially when exerting myself, like in my most recent 4-miler. It's something I should work on. And I'm sure I've been guilty of a few of these habits in the past. Anyway, here are 6 of the most eye-roll inducing things I see racers doing these days.

(And just so there are no hard feelings, I also think it's annoying to continually share workouts as they are happening. Yet, I do it all the time. Case in point: #yay4milerun)

#1: Starting In the Wrong Spot.

I can give some leeway with this one because -- especially at smaller races -- it can be hard to figure out who's running what pace. But if you run 13-minute miles, it's not smart to start in the first 1/4 of the group. Instead, ask those around you generally how they are planning to finish and try to line up accordingly. And if you never run and are just participating for fun -- please refrain from sprinting the first quarter mile and dropping to a halt, getting in the way of practiced runners. I can't tell you how many times I've nearly tripped over people or have seen others trampled in the crowd.

#2: Expressing Negative Thoughts.

I've heard anything from "Seriously? Only 8:30/mile? Ugh!!!" to "Oh, GAWD. Just LOOK at that huge hill!!!" If you have nothing nice to say, it's best to keep your mouth shut. Or if you just have to blab, try to find something positive to chat about. Maybe there is a killer mountain up ahead, but it's better to say something like: "Alright, guys. We can do this!" Something to keep the group going strong.

#3: Tweeting or Instagram-ing Mid-Run.

This one gets a double eye-roll. Posting before or after the race is fine. Jitters and nerves get the best of me, too, so a little shout for good luck is sometimes in order. And sharing a great finish time is always on my list of priorities -- after I cross the finish line. The way I see it, if you signed up for the race + have time to tweet in the middle, you're not running hard enough. 

#4: Blatantly Disregarding Race Rules.

Maybe it's my inner-goody-two-shoes, but I hate, hate, hate when runners ignore race rules. Examples are no dogs, no strollers, etc. And the ever-popular no head-phones. It means you can't wear headphones -- for your safety. Also: So I don't have to listen to muffled Selena Gomez crap my whole race. If it's hard to run without music, try doing it at least once a week so race day won't shock your system.

#5: Passing Someone RIGHT Before the Finish.

We all try to get the last kick in at the end of a race. Feel free to breeze past those people with little gas left in their tanks and feel good about it. But if you are within like 5 feet of the finish, don't trip someone to move up a place in the overall lineup. It's not worth it. It's just lame and rude. And you could seriously hurt someone. I actually saw a human collision once; it wasn't pretty.

#6: Disrespecting the Race. (From Stephen)

If you disrespect the race, you're indirectly disrespecting the racers. Yeah, you might only be doing this half marathon as a warmup to your epic full marathon. But we don't need to hear all about how above it you are. And runners: If you encounter someone like this, don't give in and say something like: "Oh, well I'm only doing the half today . . ." Self-deprecation isn't necessary. You're awesome and "real" runners run all sorts of speeds + distances.

What annoys you at races? Am I being too harsh? Probably.

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Upcoming Events

Three days. That's how long it took for the Boilermaker 15K to sell out this year. I feel like every year there's this huge hype around how many people will register and how fast it will happen -- I know it was quick in 2012, too, but most every other year, we had at least a month or three.

We heeded warnings and secured spots on the first day.

Is anyone else running this race? It's one of my favorites, not just for the after-party, which is -- truth be told -- pretty incredible. And the beer. Yeah. Beer is definitely a plus. But I love the neighborhood spirit. So many fun things to see and hear along the way. Llamas, people. Llamas.

It's a challenging course, and all the activity helps distract the mind from all those hills.


The 15K is giving the half marathon some competition for my favorite distance. It's long enough to be satisfying, but short enough to allow me to get some speed. (I consider anything under 8 minute miles speedy.) Recovery time is a breeze and it never cuts much into my running schedule. I also think I have a lot of room for improvement.

Now, I will also be running a half marathon in the spring, but I'd like to make the Boilermaker my ultimate goal race. My PR is 1:13:45, set back in 2010 (race report here). Obviously, my goal would be to PR in the 2013 race. I'd like to go under 1:12, if possible. That means paces that hit about 7:40.

A lot will be dictated by the summer heat and humidity. In reality, I just try to finish feeling good because I absolutely hate summer running.


Registering for a race (I haven't had anything on the calendar for some time) got me motivated to run a steady long run on Sunday. I should be able to shave 7 minutes off this time, right? Which leads me to a question I've been asked before. Most recently, Cassandra asked it:

"How fast do you run your long runs?"

My answer won't be very helpful because I often don't keep track. I do my long runs mostly to get in the distance. I map out a route, and put one foot in front of the other. Completing the distance at a comfortable, steady pace -- without taking walk or rest breaks -- is usually my goal.

I only once a month or so wear a watch. Or if I'm running with some of my runners club friends, I'll usually find out at the end how we fared. Of course, it depends on the distance, but for training runs involved with 15Ks to half marathons, I'd say it ranges between 8:15 and 9:15 pace.

Lucky for me, I found this great article -- "In the Long Run" -- by Hal Higdon, from way back in 2002. Though it's specifically about marathoning, it's actually the article from which I based my own, and still current, long run method for all distances. Higdon writes: "Speed is of limited importance during long runs . . . they’re more about time spent on your feet."

He continues, "Experienced [runners] who do long runs at race pace risk both injuries and over-training." And then, "Generally it’s better to err on the slow side. Not every long run needs to be done at the same pace, nor does the pace within each run need to stay the same."

For those who need a number, Higdon suggests 30 to 90 seconds slower than goal race pace. It's a wild range, but just lets us all know that -- AGAIN -- speed is not the point during long runs for most of us. Other workouts on the track and elsewhere are for that purpose.

In the coming months, I'll be writing more about my plan to bring my pace down from 7:55 to 7:40 (Stephen says this is a very conservative goal, but we'll see).


All I know is that the last time I ran this race, we didn't have a cuddly toddler to worry about. I think my biggest anxiety is figuring out where we'll stay the night before. At home with a 2-hour drive to the start the morning of? Or cram the three of us into a crappy hotel room and risk not sleeping at all?

We're planning to book a room today and figure out if we'll cancel or not in the next couple months. Any racing parents out there have tips for away-game races? What should we do? We're considering leaving Ada overnight with a set of grandparents, but even that sounds like potential for disaster. Or if we bring her and drag the grandparents with us, that -- too -- could cause issues for everyone.

Hmmm . . .

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10 Mile PR

Seems like I've been writing a lot of race reports lately. But none of them have been for my own races. I'm in the middle of my training program for the Runner's World Half Marathon right now.

This weekend, Stephen and I had planned to both run a 10 mile race an hour away in Ithaca, NY. Only Stephen made it to the start line.

I'm not injured. I'm not bowing out of the half due to sub-par training. We had child care all lined up (thanks again L + J!). Nah. There's really no excuse. I just don't feel like running races anymore that aren't my main focus. I'll get back to this in a moment.

First, Stephen's day:


We got to the race about an hour before it started. Ada and I hung out while Stephen warmed up. The weather was great. Just under 60 degrees and spitting rain. Fall is definitely on its way.

The race started at 9:15 AM, 15 minutes after the 5-miler portion of the day. Without much fanfare, they were off. The race traveled a loop around town, with the high school centrally located and serving as a great spectating spot for miles 3, 5, 7, and 10.

Ada and I walked a loop so we'd be able to cheer at each of these markers (ish).


At the 3 mile point, I discovered that Stephen and another guy were in the (far) lead. However, the other guy's singlet indicated that he's part of a local elite running club. So, I hoped he hadn't started the race too fast for comfort.

We headed back so we could catch him at mile 5 . . .


We kept walking to catch glimpses at all the mile markers. I think I walked like four miles in all. An ulterior motive was to get Ada to take a nap. And she didn't sleep a wink the entire time. I guess she was too excited to cheer daddy on.

So, we did just that.


We walked to the finish after seeing him at mile 7. I knew his goal was to finish somewhere in the 55-minute range, so we watched the clock as it ticked closer and closer to this point.

We saw the top finisher coming in and soon after -- there was Stephen. He crossed the line second in 56:02 -- missing his goal by a mere three seconds! That's 5:37 pace, which is crazy. Too crazy for me to even think about running ONE mile in, let alone 10.

Stephen is hard on himself, though. He says he could have run a better race if he had conserved more of his energy on that first lap of the course. Oh well. I guess he'll need to settle for an 80-second PR. Tough!


As for me -- I'm doing well with my half marathon training. Not 100% convinced I'll meet my 1:45 time goal for October's race. But I'm sure I'll complete a solid run regardless. I am feeling much more comfortable at double digit distances since my first postpartum half marathon back in May.

Ada has also spaced out her feeding sessions a bit, so a long run isn't quite as difficult to fit in as it used to be.


I have decided recently not to race -- or, rather, participate in -- everything I see on the runners club calendar. For this particular 10 mile race, I didn't feel like waking up early, feeding Ada, driving an hour, hoping Ada would nap/not get cranky during the race, racing 10 miles, feeding Ada again, and then driving an hour home.

Call me lazy, but I'd rather just do the training runs called for in my plan.

It'll save money. It'll keep me focused on meeting bigger goals versus earning Es for Effort in my head. Best part? I'll be spared the headache that comes with the coordination of breastfeeding, nap times, babysitting, and distance racing.

Do you run lots of races or pick just a key few? I used to run 'em all. Used a lot as speedwork, and it was good. Now that we'd on a tighter budget and stricter schedule, it isn't making sense. But who knows!

Pssst: You can read about the rest of our weekend over on Writing Chapter Three!

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A Fall Half Marathon

Happy Friday, folks! It's a dreary one here in upstate NY. But in a way, I like it. Leaves are beginning to fall (yes! already!), and my favorite season is now upon us. Autumn also means another racing season. One that isn't too humid for my liking.

Woo to the hoo!

I've signed up to run race the 1st annual Runner's World Half Marathon on October 21st. That's 9 weeks away, so I'm already completing week three of training. I'm following Hal Higdon's advanced training program, but cutting out Monday's run and lengthening a 3 mile run each week as I see fit.

Runs make up 5 days of my week. Rest, 2. I might consider adding some cross-training, but right now I'm trying to get back into the rhythm of serious training. It's an adjustment. My body is feeling it. I'm pushing myself. I'm ready to go outside my comfort zone again for the first time since I became pregnant 18 months ago.

Here's a glimpse . . .


I'm trying my best to follow this plan to a T, since I haven't been strict with my training since before having Ada. It's difficult to re-learn the discipline, but I think it will be rewarding in the long run. Still, I am taking liberties -- for example, this weekend calls for a 5K race. I'm doing that next weekend instead.

I ran my first double-digits run last weekend since June. It was tough and I almost gave up at mile 9 because it was hot and my legs were tired. Seeing 10 pop up on Stephen's Garmin was rewarding, though. I feel motivated to reach my sub-1:45 goal. A new PR for me, hopefully.

Otherwise, my runners club friends have been fantastic at keeping me accountable. I've had lots of company on training runs and kind words said in my direction. You gals are the best!


If you ever told me that nine months after having a baby I'd be back into my pre-pregnancy shape, or even fitter, I would have called you a liar. Now? I am a believer.

There won't be any more postpartum body updates. 9 months of pregnancy. 9 months after. There's no reason to dwell there any longer. No photos, since I look pretty much the same. (Plus, we took enough on Writing Chapter Three this week.) My weight, however, is now back where I started. Some of the time. I still waver in a three-pound range.

Eh. I'll admit, I do take pleasure in being back closer to "normal," even if I use a number as a gauge. I am starting to get definition in my abs again. But, seriously. None of this has been without struggle and frustration.

To pregnant or other postpartum women out there: Breastfeeding isn't a miracle weight-loss tool. At least, it wasn't for me. Even running/working out hard isn't going to necessarily get you mind-blowing results. The weight dropped off ever-so slowly for me. There was no rhyme or reason to it. My body did what it wanted to do.

So, if it doesn't happen immediately for you either, that's totally normal. But through patience and understanding your body and new priorities, you, too, will normalize after a while. Or find a new normal. Or get fitter/stronger/slimmer/etc. Our bodies and lives are so different, there's really no telling.


Anyway, back to running! I invite you to join me as I chase a PR in the half marathon this fall. And I'd love to know what races you all are running and how you plan to succeed.

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Ready, Set, Weekend!

Happy Friday. I thought it'd be fun to share a variety of things I've been meaning to sneak into posts, but just haven't yet. There isn't much of a theme here. So, let's get to it!

#1: Grace wrote to us because she enjoys our Food for Runners series. She sent along the link to an awesome cookbook called Power Foods: 150 Delicious Recipes with the 38 Healthiest Ingredients.

Grace writes: "Power Foods starts out with info about 30-40 of the most nutrition-packed foods out there and explains why each are good for you and how to best to prepare and store them. Next, it's got tons of recipes containing all (and pretty much exclusively) these super foods."

"It's not aimed at eating light or weight loss, but at how to feed your body what it needs to keep it strong and healthy. Right up your alley. The recipes are great too. I want to make every one of them! And the majority are vegetarian. The photos are excellent to boot. I highly recommend it."

You can buy Power Foods on Amazon.com for $16.

#2: Christina writes: "I just started running this summer and really enjoy it . . . I recently came across this way of running called 'Chi running' and was wondering what you thought about it. Have you tried it, and, if so, is it worth venturing into?"

What is Chi running? Check this out . . .



I'm sharing this topic because I, myself, don't know much about it. Stephen, on the other hand, read ChiRunning: A Revolutionary Approach to Effortless, Injury-Free Running and watched several videos like the one above. He now swears by the method, which he says has "helped [him] use the downward pull of gravity to [his] advantage."

#3: Kim writes: "At a race I did recently, the results had a column for something called 'Age Grading' . . . I hadn't seen that before. What do you know about this number? Does it matter much?"


I came across the age grading thing in the same way, Kim. I had never heard of it before, but then I saw a number in the results of a race one day. Basically, age grading is a way of judging everyone -- regardless of age -- on the same scale based on their performance versus exact time. There's more information about specifics on the Compuscore site.

The scale is as follows:

100%= Approximate World Record Level
Over 90%= World Class
Over 80%= National Class
Over 70%= Regional Class
Over 60%= Local Class

To calculate your age grade for a recent race, just check out this nifty Runners World Calculator.

Do you know anything about Chi Running or Age Grading? We'd love to hear your thoughts and help answer these questions. Just leave a comment or email us at neverhomemaker [at] gmail [dot] com.


And read all about our Tornado Thursday today on Writing Chapter Three. What a wild afternoon it was.

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First Post-Pregnancy Race: Complete

This weekend, as the title suggests, I ran my first race since Ada was born. The last race I ran was all the way back in June -- a 5K at 16 weeks pregnant. The 10K marks the first in a series of four that run the entire month of January. Weather ranges from mild and sunny (like this weekend's event) to frigid and awful.

THIS WEEKEND:

LAST YEAR (BRRR!):


Stephen and I got to the park early and warmed up with few of our friends in the runners club. After spending the last weeks of pregnancy running barefoot on our treadmill at 5.5 MPH or walking, I'm surprised by how quickly I'm picking up speed again. Our warmup, though intended to be easy, was at around 8:30 pace, and it felt just like a warmup should to me. I thought after I had Ada that it would take months to get past that 5.5 MPH treadmill pace, but that's not been the case at all. Shedding 20 pounds definitely helps, I'm sure.

There was a good showing at the race because the weather was so nice. I positioned myself in the middle of the pack with two goals: Finish in under an hour and do not stop running -- only slow to a jog -- if I got tired. When we finally started, I saw Stephen quickly take the lead . . . but I kept my pace manageable. After running 1.5 miles before the race, I knew I wouldn't actually be racing.

It was only the second time I had run more than six miles since July. Yikes!


The course can drive you crazy if you think about it too much. It's three loops in a local park. Three of the same loops. After my first completed one, I thought for sure I would have trouble accomplishing the no walking part of my goal. I felt silly for doing such a long warmup. For doing a warmup at all, really.

So, I slowed a bit in the second loop. Maybe I wouldn't break an hour, but I didn't want to stop running. (And I must mention that our friend Susan was volunteering at the race. She took all these photos -- thanks Susan!)


Stephen and I have this tradition where if a course loops around, we do a high-five wherever we end up seeing each other. We always see each other because Stephen typically gets close-ish to lapping me. Still, he's never succeeded in actually passing me.

Well, until this weekend. I was getting close to completing the second loop. We did our high five. Then a few minutes later, I can just tell he's going to pass me. It was good timing, though. Susan was positioned and taking photos exactly where it happened.

It's my new favorite. And Stephen finished in 34:10, a new PR at 5:30 pace.


But by the third loop, I was tired. It was my last loop and all I could picture was Stephen drinking water and eating. I definitely didn't fuel properly, so I was absolutely starving. On top of that, my ab muscles, especially the lower ones, have not caught up to my activity level. My entire core just burned.

A few runners got their kick and passed me. I had to stay positive and remember that I just had a baby 7 weeks ago. I had to keep reminding myself that I should be happy I'm running at all. Steady, steady, steady is what I kept repeating to myself.

Those thoughts helped me finish the race. In the last two-tenths, I even got a kick myself. I finished in 51:25, 8:17 pace. Four minutes slower than last year's PR, but I was completely surprised by how I've maintained some of my speed. I am happy to have my first post-pregnancy race under my belt. I have three more chances to get even faster, which is great. And the best part was driving to my parents house after the race to celebrate with Ada!

It's hard to believe this was me in late October:


Oh, and I almost forgot! I had one of the most demoralizing starts to a race ever. There was another runner who passed me at the 1-mile mark. I heard after the race that this marker was slightly out of place (more like 1.2 miles instead of 1). Anyway, this guy passes me and says: "Aw, MAN! 9 minute mile?! That SUCKS!!!"

Not a great way to begin a race. I would have been happy with that pace! His bad attitude is what actually sucked. There have been all types of weird/annoying things that have happened to me or around me at races, but I think this may have been the worst. Has anything like this ever happened to you mid-run?

And new on (never home)maker, baby! is a post all about falling in love with Ada. It's been much more difficult -- a process instead of an instant connection -- than I thought it would be.

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26.2 and Our Current Running Goals

Stephen and I have been chatting a lot about our training plans for the next year and beyond. Mine is pretty well set until the end of the year -- taking it easy, doing what's best for the baby, and just having fun moving for as long as I can. Stephen has chosen to focus on shorter races for the summer and half marathons for the fall -- building his speed and taking a break from high-mileage training.

What we've both agreed on, for the next couple years, at least, is that we're taking a break from marathons.

It's funny how the distance sucked us in. We each ran Philly in 2009 as our first full marathon. Before we knew it, we were hooked. Other races didn't seem to compare or feel as satisfying. Training at a lower intensity (mileage-wise) didn't feel like enough anymore.

So this time last year, we signed on for two 2010 marathons. And we were diligent about our training from July through October.


For me, the results were f.a.r from ideal. I DNFed at the Wineglass in October after 17 miles at near my target 3:50 finishing time pace. And my injury carried over, making me miss the 2010 Philadelphia Marathon in late November. I had done ALL the training. Even gotten in my first 50+ mile week. To say I was disappointed is an understatement.

By the end of the year, though, I was still injured and frustrated. I enjoy and can handle the training, but running the actual RACE is another story entirely. It's unpredictable no matter how prepared I am. It's just not fun for me. Plus, the recovery time is llllllong.


Stephen, on the other hand, ran a great effort at Wineglass -- earning his current PR of 2:55:48. But when he turned around and ran Philly a few months later, his performance wasn't exactly as he had hoped. He was burned out and disenchanted with racing 26.2.

He had qualified for Boston this year, so after some time off in the winter . . . he started training again. But a stress fracture kept him off his feet for almost 11 weeks. And, as you suspect, he missed THE big marathon race of all races.


Summer always seems to be the big planning time running-wise. It's the period when fall race registration begins. It's when training must begin to ensure at least some success. So, naturally, our goals have been on our minds. But this year, it's more complicated. Our time won't be entirely our own.

And we definitely have some other priorities we need to put before our racing schedule.


My after-baby plan? Well . . . the mere idea of training for a marathon while caring for a newborn seems like way too much for me to handle. Especially when I don't think the distance is for me -- or ever will be. Plus, I know it will take some time to get back into running shape, period. I'm first looking to establish a regular running schedule that works with our new lives. I have no idea if squeezing it in will be difficult or easy. Or maybe a mix of both.

From there, what I DO know is that I love running 15Ks and half marathons versus shorter distances because I get a great sense of accomplishment and don't have to sprint from the minute the gun goes off. My long-range goal is to PR in the half marathon distance, ideally with a time around 1:40:00. My current PR is right around 1:46, so I know it will take a lot of work to shave off those minutes. But I don't see myself running another full marathon until I reach this half marathon goal.


Stephen is shooting to PR in the 5K this summer. He'd like to finish in the low 16s . . . and even possibly in the high 15s. He's anxious to find the right race to try this feat. Otherwise, he would also like to focus on PRing in all distances up to the half marathon. To accomplish his goal, he's looking for less mileage-heavy weeks and more time on the track.

Smarter, better quality miles versus quantity, junk time on his feet.

Also note that Stephen DOES want to run a marathon in a couple years. He feels his burnout is more to blame for his performance/disenchantment than his body. But he's being nice and already a good daddy. I basically told him I wouldn't love if he was spending hours running on Sundays when we have a baby to care for. (Hahaha. OK. Seriously, though, he came to this conclusion all by himself.)


No matter what happens, we're both committed to continuing our running and learning from both our good and bad experiences. It's almost like we have this relationship with running . . . and like with all relationships, it's constantly shifting and evolving. What remains -- stays constant -- is that commitment, no matter where we shift/move.

What are your current fitness goals? Have you had any major revelations or life changes recently that has made you alter them? We'd love to hear your thoughts!

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House Stuff, New PRs, and Diets

HOUSE UPDATE 

After some negotiations, we came to an agreement with the seller of the house Friday afternoon. We settled on a fair price -- with a 60-day house sale contingency clause in the mix. This means we have 60 days to sell our home. If we don't, the deal it off.

So. Our house goes on the market . . . TODAY. Yeah. That's right. We spent the entire weekend shining up the place, which involved quite a laundry list of tasks. Worst of which was hanging a new door for the kitchen pantry. (I hate having to make things square, the darn thing wouldn't shut for HOURS until we fussed over it a ton.)

We still have a lot to do, but we're hoping this process is a speedy one. When we were looking/offering the first go-around, all we had to worry about was getting a loan. Oh, how I pine for those days . . .

If all works out, I figure the earliest we can possibly move in is the first week of May. The latest would be in July. Worst case scenario has us staying in our current place, which is all spiffed up. It's win-win-win, really.

WEEKEND RACING

We cleaned and hauled and cleaned some more. I did have time to squeeze in a St. Patty's race, though. A 4-miler, and I'm quite proud with my new PR for the distance: 29:15 (7:18 pace -- smashed the old PR by 45 seconds).

I also placed 3rd in the 20-29 age group of 102 gals. 12th of all 357 women. And 103 of 747 overall participants. Not that I'm counting. :)


(It's finally getting nicer out -- we needed sunglasses!) My friend Dani also ran the race and kicked some major butt. Who that other guy is in the photo, we have no clue. But from the looks of it, he enjoyed himself immensely.

VEGANS VERSUS THE WORLD?

After we finished cleaning Sunday, I sat down -- quite exhausted -- and caught up on some blogs and news. Then I checked my traffic (again, I'm a stats dork) . . . and I saw I was getting some visits from a post in a PETA board.

At first I thought: "Maybe they are sharing a vegan recipe of ours -- that's cool!" And then, my heart sank when I saw this:


All in response to our Becoming Un-Vegan post. I'm not going to dwell too much on the negative comments in reaction to the original post. Nor will I focus heavily on the few devotees who decided to bring their anger to our site's comments section.

Still, I don't get the harsh judgment from all these strangers.

My response: I don't judge friends/family members/people in general based on their diets. Way more goes into eating and health than ethics. I very much appreciate and support the vegan diet. Being vegan myself for many years and trying hard at it, I know it isn't right for me. There's really no defense necessary beyond that.

It wasn't all bad: This one comment in response made me smile. Because this girl obviously gets it. Diet is a choice and it's extremely personal.


This all being said, I have made a decision about my diet recently that I was planning on discussing later this week. I'll get into it more soon, but in short: I've tried fish a few times now (tilapia and salmon). It isn't working out. I don't crave it. I'm not in love with the flavor (texture mostly). I hate cooking it (so weird, but it's just like a chore to me!).

So, though I don't love labeling, for all intensive purposes, I'm back to being a full vegetarian. It's where I feel the healthiest, happiest, and most alive. Why do you eat the way you eat? We're all different . . . but it's interesting to me how controversial diets can be.

Just leave a comment or email us at neverhomemaker [at] gmail [dot] com.

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Apple-Pecan Cinnamon Swirl Bread

I'm still coming down with something. I just wish it would happen already. Over a week of being half-sick is aggravating. Good news, though: I was able to run in the 10K this weekend.

No. This isn't a snowshoe race, though it looks like one. Regardless, the event surely lived up to its name (Freeze Series) -- it was a brisk 9 degrees at the start.

We bundled -- one of us more than the other (can you guess?) -- and a couple miles into it, didn't notice the chilly temps.


Stephen finished in a speedy, PR-worthy 34:49 (5:37 miles!) and I hobbled in at a not-my-best-but-not-bad 48:57 (7:53 miles). My knee/IT-band issue is getting better for sure, but I don't see a marathon in my spring schedule. Or fall.

One day/run/race at a time. But I give swimming mad props for my ability to run the same speed (my time was actually a couple seconds faster than last year's!) as when I stopped training regularly!

It was definitely a sexy race. We looked . . . HOT. Or should I say cold?



And I love this photo my dad took at the end with his thumb (accidentally) over the lens. Hahaha.


We did a lot of stuff and saw a lot of family/friends this weekend. So much, in fact, that I'm feeling like I need at least another day to catch up. I did squeeze in some baking. Bread, of course.

Cinnamon.
Apples.
Pecans.
A touch of sugar.


APPLE-PECAN CINNAMON SWIRL BREAD
(Print this recipe!)

What you'll need . . .

• 1 cup warm water
• 1 1/2 tablespoons yeast
• 2 tablespoons Bob's Red Mill egg replacer mixed with 6 tablespoons water
• 1/4 cup canola oil
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 3 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 cup unbleached bread flour
• 1 cup pecans
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons cinnamon
• 1 1/2 cups diced apples

Method . . .

1. Dissolve yeast in warm water. Let sit for 5 minutes -- until frothy.
2. In the bowl of an electric mixer, whisk together the Bob's Red Mill egg replacer (plus water), oil, and maple syrup. Whisk in the yeast mixture.
3. Add flours and salt and knead for 10 minutes. Place dough in a greased bowl and let rise one hour or until double in bulk. Set aside.
4. Combine pecans, cinnamon, and sugar in a large bowl. Divide the dough into 2 equal balls. On a lightly floured work surface, flatten the first with a rolling pin -- and form a long rectangle shape. (Roll until it is about 1/2 inch thick.)
5. Spread half the pecan mixture on the dough, then spread half the diced apples over the pecan mixture.
6. Starting on one end, roll until you form a loaf. Then place in a greased bread pan to let rise for another 2 hours.
7. Repeat process with other dough ball.
8. When the rising is complete, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
9. Bake for 25 minutes. Then cover with aluminum foil and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes.
10. Turn over onto a wire rack to cool. Repeat with the other loaf.

I love how the bread looks. Impressive. There, I said it. But seriously! It looks tricky to make -- despite how it's really simple.

I played around a bit with my new external flash yesterday, too. I'm not exactly a pro at it yet . . . having some issues with colors, etc. But overall, I'm pleased with how the bounce eliminates shadows for the most part. And these pics are almost DIY light-box quality . . . without lugging that huge thing around.


My brother was a willing model. Or just hungry. Or maybe too tired to argue after lugging our new-to-us treadmill up the stairs. (More on that another day!)

Thanks, Ryan (and Stephen, mom, and dad)!


How'd you stay warm this weekend? Though the race was certainly exhilarating, I preferred the baking. In the comfort of my fleece robe. Just leave a comment or email us at neverhomemaker [at] gmail [dot] com.

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