The state park near my house; I have hundreds of miles on these trails. Probably over a thousand evenI don't know for sure what it is....
....Maybe it's the crisp autumn air I ran in this morning. Maybe it's because my lame-o doctor called this morning and FINNNNAAAAALLLLY faxed my "negative biopsy results" to my insurance company. Maybe it's because I saw fresh snow on Mt. Evans today on my run. Maybe it's because it's Homecoming week at school and the kids' spirits are flying high (some a little TOO high). Maybe it's that damn belt buckle EMZ is going after. Maybe it's the upcoming marathons some of my clients are doing here soon (GO Tom, GO Chris!!). Maybe it's because I had ONE night where I got more than 5 hours of sleep and didn't feel like a total crazy zomboid all day long. Maybe it's because I ran 11 heel pain-free miles this morning on the trails at my favorite state park near my house (albeit slow. Whatever). Maybe it's because I finally hit a double digit run since my SF marathon in July. Maybe it's because I had a run where I could almost justify the ice bath I'm currently sitting in (oh how I've missed you, ice bath!).
But maybe.... it's because of a few back and forth emails with the one and only Kovas, who foolishly told me he'd help pace me if I decided to run a 50-miler next year?!?!?!
I think it's probably a combination of all; but when I made a comment on Kova's blog yesterday about how he could knock two birds out with one stone by running the Western States 100, we got to emailing about some ultras and I don't know....something ignited that spark in me again to go after that allusive 50-miler that's been looming amongst the cobwebs of my brain cavity for the past year.
When I ran today, I felt an extra spring in my step. A purpose behind the slow miles. A reason to really tackle the extra 10 lbs I need to lose. A direction behind the weight training. The core conditioning. The sacrifices.
I want that 50-miler. And I want it next year. I have other races on the horizon, including one more Boston (more on that in a later blog. Remind me!) but I just feel the time is right to step out of my comfort zone, where I've been lingering for WAY too long.
I feel good! I feel hope.
I don't know all the reasons why exactly, but I feel one step closer that things are turning around for me.
Thanks, Kovas. Thank sleep. Thanks Tom and Chris for being amazing clients - and friends!
BTW, Anyone who desires to be on the pit crew of my 50-miler next year, please email me or Kova...ok, email Kova not me - he's the logistics coordinator of this little adventure. Pit crew duties: make sure I don't stop. That's all. Oh, and listen to me complain how much it hurts....but don't let me stop. And in the end, it's going to be so so so sweet!
I'm headed up to the high country tomorrow morning to tackle some high altitude 14er climbing, some mt biking, perhaps....and a little head de-clogging therapy. While I'm there, I'll be sure to get in some trail running - after all, I got a 50-miler to train for!!I'll leave you with this little gem of a video from last year's Homecoming Pep Rally. It's the dance the teacher's put on (I tried to find this year's - it was a TOTAL blast!! but it's not posted on youtube. Yet). Can you find me? Hint: I'm NOT wearing red, my hair is blondish, and I'm NOT the tall chick.
Happy Weekend!
53 comments:
Holy cow a 50-miler! You go girl! I love that you had a pain-free double digit run and that the doc FINALLY came through for you. Sounds like things are turning around! Wow you have beautiful fall colors already--here not so much.
That video was so awesome. Now i want to be a teacher. You've got the moves girl. I know you have a 50 miler in you and it's so so good to hear that you're getting your groove back.
wowza a 50 miler is INTENSE. but i know you will rock it. love the video too. you get your dance on :)
Way to go! Tackling in a 50 miler is a great goal and I can't wait to read about the training!
Wow 50 miles- that would also be a goal of mine someday. Dont think that will come next year but maybe in the future. Along, with maybe someday ,if I really buckled down the training, I could get into Boston. But for now I will be running Chicago on 10-10-10.
That video has to be one of the most awesome thing I have seen. It is so neat to see teachers that are having fun. I don't think I remember my high school teachers being that cool!! One of my best friends is moving out to Denver maybe she can be part of your crew. (she is also running Chicago with me)
Congrats on the 50 miles!! Can't wait to read that next year! When does training start?
Congratulations on the good news AND the sleep! That'll make your life feel MUCH rosier.
Leaving the comfort zone...I love having a challenge ahead of me! Nothing makes you feel alive like attempting something you're not sure you can do. I'm excited to hear about the training and the run. If I lived closer, I'd totally come crew for you just to be a part of it!
We are going to have some fun! Hopefully we can round up a few more folks to join us on this adventure. Looking forward to you picking a race so I know where we're going! :)
Don't ask why. Enjoy this, milk this, immerse yourself in this. 50mi is an ambitious undertaking and I will be rooting for you. Can't wait to read and learn from your training successes and occasional mistakes (those happen too, don't they?). Good luck.
The 50 miler sounds perfect and it's a whole new goal, I love it!!! This will keep you pumped and motivated, I'm excited for you, Jill.
FUN video, you guys were great!
Happy Weekend,
meg
Positive news?!!
The trail running sounds like the de clogger.
Was browsing thru Fitz book today you mentioned to me a week or so ago. Hesitated on the purchase dont want to get tooo inside my own head. But DID pluck a few nuggets out that could help...
Derek
Wow! A 50-miler. You go girl! Have a wonderful weekend.
I'm feeling your positivity all the way over the Pacific ocean. I love your big, audacious goal.
OMG! I'm so excited for you! A 50 miler! That is awesome! I would love to crew! I need some details first before I committ, but I would LOVE to crew for you ;)
Have a blast this weekend! I'll txt you on Sunday!
xoxoxo
That is such a lovely positive post, thank you! If only I wasn't so far away I would have joined you for the 50 miler for sure! I'll just have to be there in spirit.
That trail looks gorgeous!
And wow, a 50 miler, huh? Sounds like you are going to have some great support. Count me in as cheer crew... from afar, unfortunately.
That's a great (and grand) goal to have for next year. And that's a talented faculty you work with, if the homecoming dance is any indication.
Yeah to the 11 pain free miles. Does that mean there is hope for me? I am thrilled for you!
50 miles! Very impressive! You continue to amaze me!
YEA!! 50 miles with a side of Mojo. I would love to help with crewing a long race. Keep us posted, and don't forget the update on Boston
Hi Jill,
Well, it sounds like someone is having a great day! Fantastic news:) I can feel your excitement and joy.....yay!! I think you can totally do a 50 miler Jill! You live in freaking Colorado where your fitness needs to be stellar...and it is:) Reach for the stars!
Okay, I have watched that video 3 times and I still can't figure out which one you are! I am usually really good at this stuff! Maybe my eyes are over stimulated and moving around to much:) Super fun video....the crowd loved you guys!
Have a great weekend Lady!
I'm so excited for you!
When you started talking about your 'slow' miles (just call them "Shana pace" from now on please) I thought "she should go long".
After reading on I decided I should be on your pit crew!! Wouldn't that be fun!?!?!?
I can pace, count me in for at least 20 (I'll even carry your gear). You could probably convince me to do 30, you know I am a softy.
Awesomeness on the NEGATIVITY results! Wow, 50 miles seems fun. It's great to live near a park with that many miles. The funnest thing is the exploring. Take care and enjoy the quest! Go for it Ultra runner Jill!
It's awesome to hear you sounding so upbeat! Love that you are gonna do a 50-miler! I have a friend doing her first in November and I'm going to crew for her--can't wait to see an ultra in action. Can't wait to hear your race report after yours!
wait what? 50-miler? and you were just crippled from your heel? ...ok psycho runner ;)
no, lovin' the upbeat post for real. jealous of your millions of miles of trails!! makes me so tired of suburbia...
50-miler eh? will this interfere with PP? how about coming to the east coast for JFK? :)
Crazy woman! I love it. Yay for ultras. We have one down here call the MS 50 (http://www.ms50.com/) Nice trail, no altitude, tiny hills, basically flat. I'm doing the 50K part this March. You are always welcome! Let me know what you find out... I'll be curious to check out any races. Love ya!
...ahh, Homecoming...where the hormones run rampant and it gives the kids a reason to dress ridiculously...it's a magical time!
Okay. Which one are you in for? I'm going to sign up for the Bishop High Sierra next May. Let's hold each other accountable...
I think that's awesome (crazy) Jill! And it sounds like that's just what you needed to get that spark back! Can we still bitch at swim nights though?
I will, of course, be on your pit crew!!!
What 50 miler you aiming for Jill? Nice to feel like things are starting to roll again!
Ok, so you've decided to run a 50 miler? I'm officially jealous. They sound like so much fun, in a masochistic sort of way.
I love this super positive and uplifting post! You are going to be amazing :) Keep your spirits up!
I love new goals!! Go you! Loving the positive energy coming from your post...how cool that you guys do a dance for a students :)
New goals - woo hoo! I am thinking about a 40 mile race next May in TN, but it will be HOT. The Strolling Jim. Not sure I can overcome my fear of 40 miles in the heat. Will see... just thinking. (I may also do the 50k that Jennifer mentioned in March)
Whoo hoo! I loved this post, I was cheering the whole way through!
If my mile time is suddenly shaved in half, I'll be part of your pit crew/cheer squad.
Otherwise, I shall simply be your training cheerleader!
YES! Do the 50 miler! That is so exciting.
BTW - tell the trees to slow down. I want to see some color when I am in Den!
Outstanding post. Sounds like you are almost back!! 50? When and where?
This post leaves me with a quote that has helped me many times, I do not know where I heard it from:
"Hope guides me, that is what gets me through the day and the night."
You see, this is what you need, a new goal. And running a 50 miler is an awesome goal. You can just go out and run long, without worrying about pace, and speed work. Perfect!
You ran 11 MILES heel-pain free? I am envious...the turning leprechaun green with envy kind of envious. But seriously... Good for you!! Best of luck with teh 50-mile...I suspect it's on trails, as on the ultras, are right? I was up in Hayward this weekend to spectate on a race I had planned on running (plans derailed by heel pain!). We jeeped it through very rustic fireroads to get to parts of the race course, which ran through the woods along the Chequamegon Fat Tire course. The cold air and changing leaves totally made me want to be runner again. Enjoy your fall. Looking forward to running vicariously through you :)
That's such a beautiful place to run. Of course, I have never run there before, but it looks like it would be bliss.
I'm glad to know the insurance situation is finally getting resolved. That took a while.
I'm glad you're feeling great again, and running pain free! Yay!
50 miler? Yeah, you'll do it. ;)
Happy to hear you got the insurance thing settled and things are looking up...I can practically feel the energy coming off this post! 50 miles for you? No problem!
I'm doing my first 50 on NOvember 6th...i'll let you know how it goes...
That video is awesome!
yeah! I knew you'd bite on a 50 miler! WoooHooo! You are so brave. I will be so excited to read about your training. Yeah!!! for a happy post! I love Happy Jill!!!
Welcome back friend.
OH NO - you have the unfortunate opportunity to chat {email style} with Kovas too?!
If I make it to tell about this 50 miler.....we must all do it next year!! We can shove Kovas under a horse, if he gets to annoying.
I say enjoy that feeling of hope! I'm glad things are looking up for you, particularly on the doctor/insurance front. I think you'll love the training and actually doing a 50 miler, so go for it!! Funny video, thanks for sharing.
BTW, I did see the golden aspens while we were in Crested Butte. I have to say that they're one of the most impressive sights I've ever seen! Beautiful!! The weather was great too, and, NO HUMIDITY. It was awesome!!
I think it's awesome that you are thinking about doing the 50 miler! And, it sounds like having that goal is just what you needed!
Where was that picture taken? What state park is that?
Love the video...that must have been so much fun!
You are amazing! Running, climbing mountains, bustin moves on the gym floor and now a 50 Miler! WOW!! Good luck with the heal and training. Thanks for the kuddo's. Running is easy with the right coach!And I got the right coach!!
Bubble Boy
50 miles-insanity! How fun would it be to be a member of your pit crew though!! Glad your heel is cooperating for the time being. Beautiful trail! I LOVE fall. Fall is just meant for running (and candy corn). Oh-and yes, my butt has DEFINITELY gotten bigger. Trying to work on that...
Congrats on the good news. 50 miles .... and I thought that a marathon was a long distance; for you 42,197 km are only a short relaxing walk.
50 miles just feels way too long. But way to go for taking it on.
That is so exciting! I was just thinking today how I should/if I should venture into the ultra world.
love that video! only wish I had teachers like that when I was in school!
50 miles????? WOW!!!!
That is intense....I can't wait to read about your adventure! =)
So fantastic. That video that you closed-out your post with was just awesome and was clearly very well-rehearsed.
Looking at the pictures of Colorado in the fall has got me just sad that I'm not there to be logging miles amongst the changing aspens.
Continue to rock it!
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