tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73789391869551729842024-03-19T10:38:35.448-07:00Over 60 and On the Run! A blog for runners over the age of 60.Ginny Besshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02417461710904494370noreply@blogger.comBlogger31125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378939186955172984.post-22782878973056227852015-09-05T08:29:00.001-07:002015-09-05T08:29:44.233-07:00Getting down to the nitty gritty!!!As you can see , I have posted a countdown now to the NYC marathon! Getting down to the nitty gritty now. Am I getting nervous? You bet I am. I think my biggest fear right now, is something unforeseen happening, like an illness or an injury that would sideline me. I am thinking positive, but I can't seem to stop these thoughts from entering my little brain..most people experience this I would think.<br />
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Three weeks ago I traveled to Detroit to do my scheduled 20-miler on the trail with my bestest running friend, Lisa. For this venture I purchased a Nathan hydration vest/backpack. The jury is still out on how I liked it. Took quite a bit of adjusting, as the backpack seemed to lay to far down my back and pulled on my shoulders. Lisa did some tucks with safety pins and it felt better, but still not real comfortable. However it was nice to have a drink whenever I needed without having to carry a handheld or something around my waist, both of which I have used in the past and not with very much success. Anyway, we set out around 8:30 in the morning, looking like we were going out on an expedition according to one observer. The gentleman was a biker and Lisa said " Well we are going for a 20-mile run" I think he was suitably chagrined to have mentioned anything! I usually use Jeff Galloway's run/walk method, but not really necessary here as the trail kept me stopping anyway. I have run one trail before and I really loved it. It was full of roots and hills, but not that many other obstacles other then having to move off the trail for the bikers, but for whatever reason, I did not do as well this time. To get in the 20 miles we had to do the trail twice. I fell near the end of the first loop around, just a couple bruised knees and scraped elbow...nothing broken, like the wrist last August thank goodness. When we finished the first 10 and were taking a rest at the car Lisa asked if I wanted to continue with the trail or go on a more tame 10-miler, but I opted for doing the trail again. Really pooped out the second time around. At times I did not think I would finish, but once you are out there whatcha gonna do??? Not much choice but to keep going. A LOT of walking this time. but we finished. I could not wait to get the backpack off! I think it took like 7 hours, which is awful time, but Lisa kept reminding me it was a trail and it was hot an humid. We rested a little, I had a Diet Coke, some fruit and some nuts...( we also each had a beer) don't tell we were in a public park! On the way home in the car this feeling washed over me and I said to Lisa, you are going to have to pull over I think I am going to be sick. I did not get sick, but had to get out of the car and just had to lie down on the grass....you can imagine what cars thought that were driving by!!! Probably thought Lisa had hit me with the car! I knew I would be alright, this happens to me sometimes when I run a long distance and I recover and I did , in about 15 minutes. I don't know why this happens, I stayed hydrated, we rested , ate and drank afterwards and I was fine up until that ride home. <br />
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Now tomorrow I am scheduled for a 23- miler. I am doing this here in my town, not wearing backpack, will be able to stop off at home for refreshment or run into a local store if not near home. Supposed to be really hot and humid though, so planning on leaving early. I will do what I can and if it isn't 23 miles I still have about 7 weeks until the marathon. My head is going to be the problem tomorrow......I kind of get those negative thoughts when I start tiring. You all know those thoughts...".You can't do this, your back hurts, you can't do anything right" Yeah well...yes I can , so there!!!!!!<br />
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I will try to be better about writing my progress up to the marathon. <br />
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Above is a portion of the trail and below that evening, which was much more fun!!!!Ginny Besshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02417461710904494370noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378939186955172984.post-59555509259286677112015-07-28T06:19:00.000-07:002015-07-28T07:14:05.627-07:00My road to NYC!Okay, I just hit a button on my computer and my whole post disappeared , I had just written that I woke up in a funk and that little incident did not help my , already not so great, mood! How does one wake up in a bad mood? Could be because I overslept , by just enough, to not be able to get my run in. That always irritates me, I never use an alarm, just wake up when I should, usually! My kind of weather too, love the heat, even the humidity. I know, I know, I am one of those weird personalities that thrive in this kind of weather. When others are running for the air conditioning I am sitting in the sun, or on the front porch , reading a book. If I run early in the morning, I love the feeling when I get home with sweat streaming down my back....I feel energized. Definitely live in the wrong part of the country, where 6 of our months are winter, but maybe if I had this weather all the time I would not enjoy it as much.<br />
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I am now training for the NYC marathon on November 1. Never thought I would contemplate running another marathon, but NYC is one that I have always wanted to do, so I went for it. Did not get picked for the lottery, so I am running with team in training for leukemia, lymphoma, blood disease. Make' this marathon even more important to me. I have a coworker who is a survivor and expecting his 3rd child in a month or two and my best friend's sister passed away from a form of leukemia a year or so ago. For the first time , I am training with the Jeff Galloway walk/run method. With the longer distances this is the only way I will make it to the end. When I first started this method I felt like I was cheating with the walk breaks, but hey I will cover those 26.2 miles exactly like the winner of the marathon will....just a "tad" slower!! Like they say, "a mile is a mile, is a mile" My training has been going pretty well. Had a 17 miler this past Sunday. Did great until around mile 13, then I started to wear down. It was hot, but that usually doesn't bother me. My back was really hurting, I had to keep stopping to try and stretch it out or something, but nothing worked, so walked a lot the last 4 miles, but I did get it done. The good news was that I had no cramping. I have been having trouble with my calves cramping around mile 9, but I avoided that particular pleasure this time anyway. I really think it is the walk breaks that are helping me with the cramping problem. One of the aspects of Jeff Galloway marathon training is that it is a long program, that being said, I have 2 weeks now of low mileage , my next long run will be 20 miles, but the recovery weeks really help and he only has you run twice a week for at least 30 minutes. This sounds like it would not be enough, but it really works! I do some cross training, like weights and I go to the gym and do the bike for 1/2 an hour, but I am not as consistent at that as I should be. I cannot do the 5-7 day a week running as I could in my younger years, just can't do it, so this is working great for me.<br />
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Ran the Cedar Point Run and Ride half marathon again in June, did okay, enough to place 2nd in age group (don't ask how many in age group, LOL) hey, it's an accomplishment to be running at 65, right??? right???? Planning on running another half in September, not sure which one yet and the Columbus Oh. Half in October.<br />
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I am going to try and keep up with my blog for now on. We'll see how that works out. I try!!!<br />
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I will be posting a lot more about my NYC venture, but here is a link to my fundraising page! We want to cure this disease in our lifetime.<br />
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http://pages.teamintraining.org/nj/nyc15/gbessm<br />
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<br />Ginny Besshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02417461710904494370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378939186955172984.post-54430159215253480822014-10-20T16:19:00.003-07:002014-10-20T16:19:46.781-07:00Perseverance Pays Off!Traveled to Columbus, Ohio this weekend to run the Columbus Marathon/Half Marathon. I have been having problems with my calves cramping during the last miles, so the last few weeks have been spent trying to figure out a cure for this problem. Of course, if you look it up on Google , runner's world etc. you get all kinds of reasons that this may be happening. I decided to do 2 things, roll my calves several times a day with my "stick" and up my potassium consumption. I had no idea that the daily amount of potassium was 4700mg! Yikes! I was no where close to that! Thought it was worth a try...so I have been eating sweet potatoes , white potatoes all baked and making sure to eat the skins. Upped my yogurt consumption, bananas, apples. I still wasn't getting the whole amount, but certainly was better than before. The stick is no treat either, man thats hurts! I found a couple of places on my calves that were really knotted and worked on these, again, figured it couldn't hurt. I've been drinking my water, cutting down on the Diet Coke...And, bought a pair of compression sleeves , I read they might help also, something has got to help, right? Unfortunately, I haven't been running as much as I should have been though, a couple of short runs during the week and maximum 8 mile long runs on weekends, since my last half almost a month ago, some weeks I only ran once during the week and the long run. Was not feeling real confident. The race started at 7:30 in downtown Columbus. We were staying with friends, about a half hour drive away from downtown, left about 5:30 and they dropped my husband and I off around 6. It was chilly, about 48 at 6. Not too many people there yet, I love early starts for races, but in these bigger ones, where you have to get there so early to find parking etc, kind of a pain killing all that time, especially when it is kinda cold. However, no lines at the porta-pottys!! We walked around and around and around.....sat on the curb for awhile, I checked out the corrals, had our pictures taken a few times. Finally I decided I might as well get to my corral. They would not let anyone, besides runners in the corrals so my husband and I parted ways. There were 4 corrals, I was in the last one of course. All I kept saying in my head was, Please don't let me get cramps, please don't let me get cramps. I had been standing for so long that my hips started aching and then it seemed like everything was aching! Squatting seemed to relieve the aching, so I kept doing squats periodically. Still dark out and cold, but wait, I think they are starting the National Anthem, thank goodness! They also had fireworks...it was cool!!!!! However, that was for the first wave of corrals A and B...darn! About 20 minutes later they sang the anthem again and more fireworks and we were on our way. I felt really stiff and the backs of my legs were aching, but that happens frequently when I start off, unfortunately this would be my state for the whole race! Bright spot...... , I would say between miles one and two I kept thinking I heard my name being called. I thought I was hallucinating because I didn't know anyone in Columbus. Looked to my right and there was one of my best friends in the world holding a sign and yelling my name! Her daughter was also running the half. I knew her daughter was running, but we don't live close anymore and I had no idea that she was going to the race to watch her daughter. Almost made me cry. I have never had a sign held for me! I have to admit that I did not notice too much of the scenery. I was really feeling rotten, my back hurt, my legs ached, I had the wooden feet feeling and I was maybe at mile 5, a long way to go! All I kept thinking is that I cannot walk this whole darn thing, it will take me forever! I tried to look around and take in the surroundings, but my mind was really playing games with me today, things like just sit down and call your friends to come get you, you are such a loser, your legs are gonna cramp up any second now! So.......at the next aid station I took a salted caramel GU, which are wonderful by the way, and decided to suck it up! Started running more, walking less, I could not seem to increase my speed though. Did start to notice where I was running, ran past Capital University, some really beautiful neighborhoods, parks. I have to say the crowd support was phenomenal. I have run In Cleveland and Detroit and although I enjoy both of those, Columbus had the best crowd support! It was constant throughout the whole 13.1. A couple of signs that caught my eye were " You are running better than our government" " My mother made me sit out here with this stupid sign and where are you going anyway?" " You feeling lousy? you PAID to do this!" I was still struggling, but all of sudden is was mile 8 and I started to think I was going to finish after all. I had been trying to stick with the 3 hour pace people, but by this time they were way ahead of me. That is how slow I was going. Right foot started cramping and I am thinking oh no, here we go. I just kept on doing what I was doing, run a minute, walk a minute and then Mile 9, 10, 11, 12 and finally approaching the end. There was a mile marker for 13, but I have never run such a long .1 before! I thought the finish line was never be in sight, but suddenly there it was and I had done it and did not get calf cramps! I don't know if it was because I was going slower than usual or my pre race routine the weeks before, all I know is that I did not get the terrible cramps. Finished in 3:13 something, which considering how bad I felt, I was kind of happy with that. I really thought it was going to be worse than that. Actually out of the 4 Halfs I have done since June, this was my best time. Has not been a great year for time this year. Came in 61 out of 96 in my age group. I hope this doesn't sound like boasting, but I learned a lot about myself, I can do more than I think I can and I am not a quitter!!!!!! The statement on the shirt and medal was quite appropos for me this year!<br />
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Ginny Besshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02417461710904494370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378939186955172984.post-17544769759929095352014-10-14T09:27:00.000-07:002014-10-14T09:44:05.218-07:00Running over 60 and with a broken wing!I have not blogged again in a few months. I think about it a lot and then I just don't blog. If I were better at expressing myself, it would be much easier.<br />
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I have run two half marathons since my last posting and I also broke my wrist! Out running early one morning in August, it was really dark, I tripped over absolutely nothing! In fact, I fell twice that morning. The first time I just brushed myself off and started running again, the second time I wasn't quite that fortunate. As I was going down , I am thinking to myself "okay this is my second fall this morning, I am going to call it quits" Trying to stop myself, I, Of course, put my hands out, landed on my hands, scraped up a knee, nothing really unusual for a runner, right? As I was walking home, I kind of figured I may have done something a little more serious this time. Arrived home, my husband was still sleeping, woke him up and told him that I was going to walk over to the ER as I thought I may have done something to my wrist ( we live a few blocks from the hospital). As luck would have it 6:00 a.m. must be a good time to go the ER as no one was ahead of me.. x-rays taken, and sure enough I had broken the wrist. They just wrapped it well and told me to call an orthopedic doctor when I got home. This was a Thursday, so I called and they wanted to see me right away, husband drove me, Dr. looked at x-ray and wrist and suggested surgery! I was quite surprised by this, figured they would put on a cast and I would be on my way. Had surgery the next day, put in a plate to hold everything together. A week later I go back and they remove wrapping and just give me a brace, no cast at all. First question I ask is if I can still run....the Dr. kind of shrugs and says " I guess, as long as you aren't doing a marathon or something"....I didn't say "No, not a marathon, just a half" So, I started walking at first, at a very brisk pace and when that didn't seem to bother me I started running again, albeit very cautiously! I am still timid about running in the dark. My training certainly did take a hit, but I had already registered for 2 half marathons in September and I wanted to give it a try.<br />
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Run Woodstock Half marathon in Hell, Mi. Sept. 5<br />
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My friend lives in Detroit and has been after me to try a trail. I have never run on trails and having just broken my wrist I was a little apprehensive, but she assured me that we would go really slow and I would be fine. I am so glad that I did it! What an experience, I absolutely loved it! It stormed like crazy the night before and we were afraid that the trail may be really slippery with mud, but for some unknown reason the course seemed to not have as much rain as we had thought. The first few miles were rail trail, so it wasn't paved really, but it wasn't trail either. I didn't feel too good at first, had trouble breathing right and getting a rhythm, but started to get into it. After a few miles we veered off into the woods and this is where the fun began! It was beautiful.....so quiet and peaceful. My friend ran ahead and warned me of roots and rocks that I may trip over. Running the trail is so different. I just didn't care how fast I was going or how many miles I had run. There were trees to be jumped or climbed over, hills to ascend, mud that wanted to suck my shoes off and so serene and quiet and breathtaking at times. At one point we were in this forest of pines, it felt like I were in a cathedral, pine needles muffling are steps, sun filtering through, it was breathtaking! At one point I question my friend on whether we would be going back out on the trail, when she said No, I was so happy, I could have stayed in there for a long time. We were starting to hear music and voices, so knew it was coming to an end. I think this is the first time that I was not begging for the finish line. It was amazing. It did take a long time, 4 hours, but that was what my friend had predicted, because of my wrist, and never having had run trails before, there was a lot of walking going on. You know, even with the 4 hours time I was not last in my age group! I would say , it was almost a life-altering experience and I am sold on trails! Now all I have to do is find trails!<br />
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This is me....love this pic!<br />
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Mighty Niagara Half Marathon , Lewiston, N.Y. Sept. 20<br />
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A few weeks later I am on the half marathon trail again, only this time it isn't a trail, darn! I ran this half last year also and it poured rain the entire time. This time it was a beautiful day. I really didn't go into this half with any expectations because I just have not been training as I should. Partly because of my fear of running in the dark still and I am definitely a morning runner and part laziness. This is a really nice race, very flat and beautiful scenery again. The half follows the Niagara River below the Falls. Beautiful , huge homes, the leaves were just beginning to turn. Ran through a couple small , quaint towns and I was feeling okay, not great, but okay. Ran very slowly and used a walk/run.... I felt pretty good though, up until mile 10 and my foot started to cramp and then the calves again! Just like my Cedar Point Half! As soon as I would start to run I could feel the calves starting to cramp up, so I just walked the last 3 miles. I came as close as I ever have to DNF, but I talked myself out of it and just kept going, but I was disappointed. I don't know what to do about these calves. Now, the trail race did not bother me at all, probably because we walked so much, not sure. It was still fun, but feeling a bit discouraged.<br />
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Okay, I am doing another Half this coming weekend in Columbus Oh. Yes, I am a glutton for punishment! Just hoping the calf problem doesn't rear it's ugly head this time. Just not sure what I am doing or not doing that I am being plagued by this, so it makes it hard to predict. <br />
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Wish me luck!<br />
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Okay, I feel like an idiot! Just realized that I had already posted a RR about my trail run. The memory is the first to go, right?Ginny Besshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02417461710904494370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378939186955172984.post-73091052909849528662014-09-07T15:11:00.001-07:002014-09-07T15:11:44.953-07:00Ginny Besshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02417461710904494370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378939186955172984.post-39596474080735070622014-09-07T15:10:00.002-07:002014-09-07T15:12:16.637-07:00Running to Hell and back! Michigan that is! Running WoodstockI had the most awesome experience this weekend! Ran my first ever trail and it was a Half Marathon.<br />
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Been quite lax in blogging. I fell, which running, almost a month ago now and broke my left wrist. Not fun, but it is healing nicely. Surgery to put in a plate to hold everything together, so I have no cast, which is great, all I wear is a brace that I can remove when I want. The last Dr's appointment I had, I asked the Dr. if I could run and he said " I guess so, as long as you aren't running a marathon or something!" He didn't say Half Marathon! Broken wrist has slowed me down even more and threw me off my training schedule, but about a week after the incident I started running/walking, more walking than running, but I am improving again. Still a little fearful of falling again, hopefully I will get over that.<br />
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Anyway, I was registered for this trail race before and I really wanted to do it, as I have never run a trail before. My running friend in Detroit loves trails and she has been after me to run a race with her. So I packed my bags and traveled to Detroit on Friday. We drove to near Hell, Mi to pick up our packets. The race is Run Woodstock and including a 100K, 100 miler, 50 miler, marathon, half marathon and a 5k ( I think I got that right). It really was a big field, people camp for the entire weekend if they want. Families are there for their 100k, 100 and 50 mile runners ( I can't even imagine). 60's music being played by live bands, it was great. Headed back to Detroit and kept hearing dire messages of really bad weather rolling in. It started raining some before were arrived back to the house. It did storm, but not too badly where we were, but power was out in a lot of Detroit that night. Went to bed early, but kept waking up and hearing rain, ugh! Got up for good about 4:30 a.m. and it was still raining,although not too badly. Left for the race at 5:30, race start was 7:30. Arrived and it had stopped raining and it didn't seem like they had been hit too badly by the storm, temps were probably in the upper 50's and overcast.. As usual, I was getting apprehensive as I always do before a race, thinkng this is going to be the race that I DNF. I don't have trail shoes and I was a little afraid of falling. The atmosphere was much different that that of a big city race, everyone seemed so laid back and friendly. Not that runners aren't friendly at all races, this was just different. I began to relax, feeling absolutely no pressure to run for a PR , just to have a good time and experience the trail. We started<br />
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right on time and Lisa predicted our time to be 4 hours ( I told you we were going to go slow) The first 5 1/2 miles were on like crushed stone and like a road, but no traffic and out in the country, not woods yet, but definitely not city, no mile markers, I didn't wear my garmin to check time or anything. Did a lot of walking in the early stages, I wasn't "feelin it" just felt draggy and had trouble getting my breathing right, no idea why. So glad that I was running with a friend, nice to have someone to talk with and she is a seasoned trail runner. Lisa was convinced that I have not been fueling or hydrating correctly, so she was going to remind me when to take a drink and when to have a snack! GU every hour, other snack on the half hour and sips of gatorade whenever. I admit that I am not consistent during my long runs with the fueling. It really didn't seem to be too long before we came to the turn around.<br />
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On the trail they just trust that you will obey the rules, to to the turn around and turn around! There is not one there to surpervise. Not too long after we turned around we were directed to the right, not by a human, but by a blue flag, and into the woods. At first, it was just so different for me, single file, dirt path, so quiet, there really was no one around us running, just Lisa and me. Out there all you can really hear is your breathing and the sound of your feet hitting the path. I was a little leery, trying not to think about falling again, but Lisa was running ahead of me and warning me of rocks or roots that might trip me up. I think we really started running more on the path then we were out on the "road", You could hear if a runner was coming up behind you so you could move and let them pass....every single person who passed yelled out " good job" or something similar, even though they had probably been out running for hours before we were. Eventually we came to my first fallen tree across the path, one of many to follow.<br />
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Not difficult to get over, just something else I was not used to doing. Hills followed, walked all the hills and sometimes going down was more difficult than going up! It felt like I was going to topple over on the way down some of the hills, besides being a little slippery. The hills did not tire me as much as I thought that they would though. Then came the mud:<br />
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Now this was a little more difficult to maneuver! So afraid of slipping and falling. Pretty much we tried to skirt the edges. One time I had to grab onto a tree trunk and kind of swing myself over. At time it felt like the mud was going to suck the shoes right off your feet! We made it though. All the while though you just had to take in how beautiful and quiet it was out there.. I noticed a runner ahead of us on the path and though it looked so neat, that I had Lisa take this picture of me<br />
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. A lot more trees to get over. At one point, I guess I was getting tired, we came to another tree to climb over and I just stopped and started laughing, like I just can't go over another tree! I wasn't discouraged or anything, it just struck me funny. I have to add here that Lisa has been making me take my GU and snacks on schedule and , I have to admit, I believe it helped. You know what else was great for me? Having no idea how fast I was going or how many miles I had run! <br />
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We did come to a small clearing and it was a shock to see the sunshine and realize how really bright it was out after being in the woods for so long. I asked Lisa if we would ever get back on the road during the race and she said No. I was so glad, loved being in there! We were getting closer to the end at this point and entered an area of tall pines! It was breathtaking! These huge, pines all together. Lisa kept mentioning the pines and I didn't understand her fascination until that point. Now I know. It was like being in Church, but better, much better. The floor of the woods was just covered in pine needles and it was so soft. We ran there for quite a while and kind of circled around to come back through. We could hear music now so we were getting near the end and, I have to say, until that point I wasn't really anxious for it to come to an end. Once I heard the music it was like my body said, ok you are getting tired. We came out of the pine woods and there was a volunteer there and said we had less than a mile to go! Finally we came out of the woods and approached the finish line.<br />
Started running a little fast, so fast that our friend waiting at the finish took this picture<br />
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Lisa said we were going so fast the picture is blurred! Yeah, right! But notice I have a smile on my face. We finished in 4:01! Almost exactly what Lisa predicted! I have to say that I have never felt so good throughout a full race and at the end. Of course it is because I did a lot of walking, but I still felt like I had accomplished another feat....a trail! In fact, now I feel pretty badass, or as a friend of mine posted on facebook, you are a tough old bird! I think that it is a compliment!<br />
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Finished!</div>
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Ginny Besshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02417461710904494370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378939186955172984.post-27006282114607951362014-07-29T07:21:00.001-07:002014-07-29T07:21:16.347-07:00In praise of my running friends!Feel the need to give tribute to my wonderful running sisters, half of whom I have not ever met face to face! First and foremost, I have to mention Kelly. Kelly was the person who introduced me to this madness called running. It was back in the 70's, she was a runner, I was not. I was an aerobic dancer at the time, taking classes at a Health Spa, said Spa went bankrupt. Kelly had been trying to get me into running, so I thought "what the heck". I had no running shoes, no nothing, so I pulled on my reeboks and tried this running thing. It was awful! I couldn't even make it around the darn block. Kelly kept me going, telling me that's ok, that is how everyone starts. I only worked until noon those days, I had 2 small children, so every day , after work, I would lace up those reeboks and try to run. Sure enough, little by little I was able to go further and further. The first time that I thought I went about a mile without stopping I called Kelly at work, I was so excited. Mind you, I had no watch or anything, just was guesstimating how far I had gone. So...that was it, I was hooked. Kelly talked me into the St. Patricks Day 10K run in Kansas City a few months later, she kept telling me "if you can run 3 miles, you can run 6!" Yeah, right! But you know what? I did! Ran that 10K in 1 hour flat...10 minute miles. I owe all this to Kelly! We have since lost touch, but I did track her down , 30 years later, after I ran my one and only marathon (so far). I had to let her know what she had done to me! Kelly isn't running anymore, due to knee issues, which is too bad. <br />
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Jumping ahead, quite a few years, another Friend of mine, Cathy, has a daughter who runs. Cathy invited me to go to Florida to run with her daughter in a 15K race at Disney. The furthest I had ever run is that 10K, I mean that wasn't the last time I ran 6 miles, but 6 or 7 miles was my limit, I never pushed myself to go any further. But who passes up a trip to Disney? Not me! So............posted on a blog at the Runners World website, women runners over 40. Posting the question," Can I run a 15K in a few weeks, if the furthest I have ever run is 7 miles?" The resounding response was " of course you can!" And , of course, I did! In the years since, these ladies from this forum, have encouraged me to push myself even more...first the half marathon and then the marathon. We have been together through, death of parents, spouses, and numerous more joyous occasions and the thread that binds us and keeps us sane is this crazy thing called running. We are there for one another. Some of these wonderful ladies I have not even met, but it doesn't matter, we have formed a bond now that , I don't believe, will be broken....you know who you are ladies, let's keep on running! My non-running friends also, encourage me make me accountable! When I say I have registered for a Half Marathon, you better believe I am going to run it, barring any disaster . I have even inspired a couple of them to become runners themselves, which is all the better. I don't know where I would be without all those wonderful people! Thank you!<br />
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GinnyGinny Besshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02417461710904494370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378939186955172984.post-6055645362452116682014-07-16T09:49:00.003-07:002014-07-16T09:49:44.886-07:00Good runs, Bad runs!This is a subject that I think every runner has pondered at least once during his or her running career. What in the world causes these spectacular runs and these terrible runs? I had the most spectacular 4 mile run this morning. It was an easy run day ( I am trying to stay in training for another Half marathon in September) so I started out at what I thought was a leisurely pace, which for me is about 13min or more per mile. I am feeling great, just running, not doing my walk/run. I wore my watch, but didn't really pay much attention to it, just wanted to make sure I did the 4 miles. I never slowed or felt like I needed to slow down....the whole run was absolutely effortless! When I was done I did look at my watch and I ran the whole 4 miles in 50 minutes! That is a little over a 12 min. per mile pace, which for me is fantastic! I have not run 4 miles without any walking in a long time. I had a 3 mile run like this a few days ago also. Problem is, I had the most awful run I can remember just a week or so before. So what causes this phenomenon? I don't change anything. I get the same amount of sleep, eating habits are the same, work is the same. Some days I go out the door and the minute I take one step, I know it is going to be a bad day, then there are those days like today. What the heck? Why don't I ever have days like that when I am doing a 5K or a Half? I have never felt that good during a race, never! I have noticed that the really good runs usually take place when I don't feel like going, but force myself out the door, probably to make me realize that I should be running!<br />
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Anyway, I just wish there was a way to bottle whatever it is that causes these great runs, because I could sure use it! I have had some pretty miserable moments during my Half marathon career. I realize running 4 miles and running 13.1 miles is a lot different, but you know what I mean. If I could figure this out, I would probably become famous! There just seems to be no rhyme or reason, just go with the good runs and be thankful!!!! <br />
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Ginny<br />
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<br />Ginny Besshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02417461710904494370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378939186955172984.post-77338728269339771832014-06-29T11:14:00.000-07:002014-06-29T11:15:57.440-07:00Cedar Point Run and Ride!Well I have another half marathon under my belt, but it wasn't pretty! The race started at 6:45 this morning. Was up around 4:30, had my cliff bar and Diet Coke and awaited my DH to get up. Left the house around 6 and were there around 6:15. Parking was is the Cedar Point parking lot and employees were directing everyone to their parking spot. Very well organized and stress free. That is what is nice about a race at a Park like that....parking is pretty much unlimited and no hassle. The race started in the same lot, so not a lot of walking involved. The race was delayed about 10 minutes, I guess they were having problems getting the streets blocked off in our downtown, where we would also run. Race got started at 6:55. The National Anthem was sung by a woman with a beautiful voice, our anthem is tough to get right and she nailed it! I got choked up like I always do before a race, the atmosphere, music, national anthem and the calling of us "athletes"! I still don't consider myself an athlete. Anyway we got started. The first 4 miles were to run inside the amusement park so we headed out of the parking lot, rounded another neighboring parking lot and entered the park. They had music blasting and some of the rides were running, athough the only people in the park were we runners. The Carousel was running. I love the carousel and it is about the only ride my stomach can take anymore. A few of the coasters were going also, made it very festive! I didn't not start out too fast today, a mistake I frequently make! So I felt pretty good in the park. I did not check my Garmin too much today because I become obsessed with it sometimes and start getting upset if I don't feel I am running like I should . It was hot and humid, but at this point there was a pretty good breeze coming off the Bay, not too bad. Headed out of the park, around the parking lot again and down the road that leads to or way from Cedar Point. Now it is getting HOT. No shade at all, the only saving grace was the breeze was still pretty brisk. I tried to pick up my pace some and did pass some runners that had passed me earlier, that is always a good feeling isn't it? Ran into town, again not much shaded , started seeing the leaders heading back, this was about mile 6 I believe. I was still feeling really good at this point. Running further into town, through residential, so a l ittle more shade. Since my son is a policeman, I knew a few of the officers who were directing us and holding up the traffic, so that was cool. Unfortunatley, I was already starting to drag a bit and getting a cramp in my right foot. I had water and GU with me, I had already had one GU earlier. There were frequent water/gatorade stops, but Ionly ever take water. At this point I was pouring the water down my shirt! Made a left turn to circle the downtown area, and on the way back through, my son was directing traffic! So good to see him, I love that boy......Just about through the town and headed back to Cedar Point and now my right calf is starting to get into the picture. I just kept hoping that it wouldn't cramp up on me! I was just getting those little twinges that let you know you may cramp, know what I mean, so I started getting nervous. My legs were getting really tired and I know I slowed way down, eventually, I had to start walking. Darn, I do run with a walk/run when I am doing longer distances, but now I was walking more than running. When I did start running I could really feel it in my calves, there were starting to tighten up a lot. At mile 12 I almost through in the towel! All I wanted to do was STOP! That is when the thought of "why do I do this?" Why do I purposely put myself through this?" LOL. The last mile was a killer, but finally I enter back into the parking lot and see my DH waiting for me...of course he says I am doing great, only 1/4 mile to go! I hadn't looked at my watch in ages, I just figured I was doing terrible time wise, but approaching the chute they are announcing my name, and sure enough the calf cramps, but not enough to stop me in my tracks, as I cross the finish line they say "ginny Bess and she will be on the podium" I could not believe it! Even though I was not having the greatest run, I still placed in my Age group. I was so excited. The awards were pretty quick after I finished, but my legs were getting worse and worse. I never stopped walking and my DH was rubbing my calves with ice. They would be okay for a minute or so, but then start cramping right back up. They announced my name finally ( I think they should work backwards and do the older people first, LOL especially today. You guessed it! As soon as I went to stop onto the podium, both calves just seized up and I could not make it! Of course everyone is asking if I am okay. Do I look okay? It was just cramps, but I missed getting my pic taken and everything! Gosh darn it, but I did do it! We had to stick round for almost an hour until I could get the cramping under control.<br />
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So now I am sipping my Diet Coke, sitting on the front porch. Already too a nap! My calves are still twitching, but much better, and as crazy as it sounds, I will do this again in a few months and hope for a better run. My time was 3:06, which I know, to many of you is super slow, but considering how I felt the last few miles, I was happy with it.<br />
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Ginny<br />
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<br />Ginny Besshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02417461710904494370noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378939186955172984.post-36751666085698920642014-06-27T06:41:00.004-07:002014-06-27T06:41:56.008-07:00The pre-race jitters!Every time I register for a race as the time creeps closer I start to question my ability to finish said race. I am in that stage now. Since I am so slow I start to worry that I will be the last one. You know the one followed by the police car? I have been that person a few times and I hate it. In my heart I know that I shouldn't give a darn, I am out there running and I am not a spring chicken anymore, there are usually only a handful in my age group! But my darn head! Thoughts of " you know you are going to be last," " No matter how hard you run, you are still slow" I have tried all I know to try and think positive thoughts and they just don't come. So why do I keep doing this? Good question. Wish I had the answer. Up until 2008 I had never run further than a 10K. Then some enabling friends of mine ( you know who you are), started egging me to try a half. So I did. After the race I thought never again...yeah right! 2 weeks later I was signing up to run the Detroit Free Press Half ( a great race by the way), then the following year my one and only marathon. So here I am 6 years later still registering for these darn Halfs! No ones cares, except myself, how slow I am or that I bringing up the rear, but you know you hear those thoughts in your head " why is she even running, she might as well walk" I don't think people think this, but in my head they are thinking just that. I need these races though to keep myself motivated to keep on running. If I sign up you can be sure I will run that race, unless I am sick of course, and no matter how slow or how terrible I feel that day I will finish!<br />
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Okay, I am thinking way too negative here and I do not need that 2 days before my race. I use the word, race, loosely, since in my case it usually is not. There I go again, being negative. I need professional help! LOL! I have met wonderful friends during this journey. Friends, that I believe, I will have for a long time, because they are nuttier that I am! <br />
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So wish me luck Sunday as I run , I think, my 21st Half Marathon! That is an accomplishment, right?????<br />
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GinnyGinny Besshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02417461710904494370noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378939186955172984.post-37432579807531146802014-06-25T13:27:00.001-07:002014-06-25T13:27:14.633-07:00Summertime.....and the runnin' is easy...Well not really easy, but a heck of a lot better than the winter! <br />
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Sorry that I have not posted in a few months. I get into a real funk in the wintertime and ours lasted forever this year. I did manage to train for and registered for the Cleveland Half Marathon in May. However.....the night before the race I was up all night with the stomach flu. No way was I going to make it to Cleveland, about an hour's drive, let alone run a Half Marathon. I was so disappointed, I have never registered for a race and then not been able to run it. Monday following the scheduled half I decided to run my own private Half just in my hometown. Strapped on my Garmin, loaded up with water and away I went. I didn't do as well as I hoped, but am thinking I probably would have done better had it been a race environment, at least I told myself that! <br />
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Since my running has gone pretty well. Did do a 5K in our downtown later in May, that was interesting also. At one point we were supposed to turn right, run around a marina and then get back on the main road. The woman ahead of me , either did not see the pointing sign, or chose to ignore it, I am not sure which, anyway she did not make the turn or run around the marina, but just kept going straight, I tried to yell at her that she missed the turn, but again, she either didn't hear me or chose to ignore me. Imagine my chagrin when as age group awards were announced she was in my age group and came in first! I was second! I was kind of ticked off because I knew she did not run the whole course. Did not say anything though, cause she really may have just missed the turn off. However, I did mention it to a friend, who told the race director. The next week as I was coming home there was a 1st place medal hanging on my back door...neat! Apparently I was not the only person who complained. I still don't know if she thinks she ran the whole thing or not. I have heard through the grapevine that she also did this in a neighboring town's 5K a few weeks later, but she was caught this time. So maybe she did know what she was doing after all.<br />
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I seem to have an awful lot of aches and pains these days, but they never seem to get any worse and do not prevent me from running, so I just keep going. My speed is still atrociously ( is that a word?) slow, but I think I have come to grips with it ( not really, I still try to improve) I am running a Half this Sunday in Cedar Point, the roller coaster capital of the world! I better not get sick! I so want to come in under 3 hours! See I told you I am slow! The weather conditions are supposed to be hot and humid, but the race starts at 6:45, so hopefully it will not be too bad. If you have read any of my other blog posts you will know that I really got sick in Cleveland a couple of years ago when it was hot and humid, so I do not want to repeat that experience!<br />
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Wish me luck and I promise I will post a race report.<br />
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Right now I feel like I can keep running indefinitely! <br />
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ginny<br />
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<br />Ginny Besshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02417461710904494370noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378939186955172984.post-49902421274715856712014-03-08T16:56:00.000-08:002014-03-08T16:56:28.885-08:00The winter that won't die!I am beginning to believe that it will never stop snowing! Been snowing all day here again today. Not much accumulation, but I just don't even want to look at it anymore. <br />
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I have been forced to exercise indoors again all this week. Been doing the 5-mile walk/jog DVD's with Leslie Sansone. They are good and I feel I get a workout, but I have to build up my mileage. I am going to have to resort to the gym and the treadmill if the weather doesn't improve and it sure does not look like that is going to happen anytime soon. I know I shouldn't be, but I am embarrassed at the gym. I am so slow and I feel like people are thinking "for heaven's sake, why doesn't she just walk?" Anyway, I try to go super early in the morning when no one is there. I realize that this is probably all in my own stupid head, but that's how I feel. Silly, huh? I wish I could get over this speed thing and just be happy to be moving at all, but it really bugs me. It's like my legs just will not go any faster, I try. Maybe when the weather warms up.<br />
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On a brighter note, I have entered a few contests on FB this season and I have won 2 paid entries into races of my choice! So that means I am now registered for 3 half marathons, 2 of which are of no cost to me. So I am running Cleveland in May, Lake Erie in August, and Mighty Niagara in September. I should probably stop with those three, since I have been having all these darn aches and pains. Think I will just play it by ear and see how I feel once I start to get my mileage built up. <br />
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Well, I am going to run 6 miles in the morning, hopefully outside, but I have a feeling it may be the treadmill.<br />
I will let you know how I do.<br />
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ginnyGinny Besshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02417461710904494370noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378939186955172984.post-79275232375190453292014-02-26T07:54:00.001-08:002014-02-26T07:54:09.506-08:00It's been a long, long winter!I am so sorry that I have not posted in months! My running has been so sporadic since October. Back in November I started working with a personal trainer, which was great, but somehow I did something to my lower back which put me out of commission for over a month! My back still isn't right. Needless to say, between the weather and my back my running has suffered considerably. Just over the past month I have been trying to get there more.<br />
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Our winter has been brutal. If it isn't snowing and blowing , the temperature has been near or below zero with the chill factor. Heading into March and I think the temperature might reach 15 today if we are lucky and we had a little more snow last night! Winter is not a good time of year for me, I think I may have a touch of depression in winter. I am definitely a warm weather, sunshine kind of lady.<br />
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I ran outside this past Sunday with no snow on the street! It was wonderful. The past few Sundays I have gone out it has been with my Yaktrax plowing through 3 to 6 inches of snow. <br />
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Aches and pains galore this year too. Not sure if it is just because of my age or what. But up until this year I have almost never had any pain anywhere. Now it seems like something always hurts, my hip, my back, hamstring...always something. Maybe the extra mileage that I have been doing the past 5 years? Just not sure what is going on, but I don't like it. I won't stop running, but just wondering if maybe I should not do so many Half marathons this year. I am already registered for two. The Cleveland Half in May and The Mighty Niagara in September. <br />
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Anyway, I hope this hasn't been a downer, because I will not give up my running and I so enjoy the half marathons, so I will just keep running and hope my little aches and pains disappear with the winter.<br />
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If anyone does read this blog and has been experiencing any thing that I have, I would love for you to comment. Like I said, just not sure if it just my age and my years of running catching up with me or what.<br />
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Ginny<br />
<br />Ginny Besshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02417461710904494370noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378939186955172984.post-2134723870502115812013-08-18T12:52:00.000-07:002013-08-18T12:52:07.465-07:00Lake Erie Shores and Islands Half Marathon...Great day for a race! Left the house this morning about 6:15, race started at 7. Sometimes it is really nice to have a local race, no worrying about time and where you are going to stay, traffic etc. Still kind of dark when we arrived and fog. This is the 3rd year they have held this race and I have done all three. Very few people running today though, apparently there was a triathalon in the next town over today too, so I think that ....took some of the usual runners. As I was looking around and saw so few people I thought to myself, oh no, so few people I will be dead last,,,they will probably send out the local police to look for me. I really get nervous before races. I one point I said to my husband, why do I do this???? He said "because you love it"...yeah he is right, even as slow as I am I do love it and I love competing, even if it is against myself most of the time. So anyway, played the National Anthem and away we went! The course was a little different this year, past years we went about 1/4 mile and then ran on a kind of trail for a couple of miles. This trail has never been well maintained, it is single file and does have some really low spots and holes that aren't readily seen when you are running, but I kind of like that part of the run myself. But today we stayed on the highway instead, not a lot of room on the shoulder to run, but they did have the orange cones, making a sort of running lane. Traffic at that time of the morning was not bad though. It is pretty scenic, some beautiful homes along lake Erie, the first mile went really fast for me. I was wearing my Garmin, but I decided to just use it today to help remind me of my Walk/run ratio. I have been doing the Walk/run for my past few halfs and it has worked for me. I did not want to know how fast Iwas going...I get too caught up in that and I think I think about it too much, so it was hard, but I did not look. I did however check at each mile to see what my pace was. I didn't let it get to me though, just looked. This stretch of highway was about 3 miles I think and then we entered the small town of Huron, running through the neighborhood, then out on a highway again.....I think it gets a little hilly here, but probably most people would not think that it is....not a lot of room again and more traffic. Got a little dicey when the lead runners were heading back and we were still running to the turn around. My son and grandson live in a subdivision along this highway and they were standing on their corner to cheer grandme on! This year I crossed the street and gave grandson and son a hug, never did that before, but seemed the thing to do today. Continued to the turn around, which I thought would never come, but I still felt pretty good. The way back is more downhill so I tried to kick up the pace a little......back into town, and my feet start cramping a little, they always do this and as long as I keep running they usually calm down. By now we are in mile 9 and going pretty well. The sun is up now and getting a little warm, but not bad. At this point I did pass 2 ladies that had been ahead of me the whole way. Out of the town and back out on the highway...mile 11 I started getting a twinge in my right calf and I keep saying, please don't cramp up now, please don't, I think I am going pretty well. Kept twinging and more cramps in the foot....mile 12 twinges are getting worse, but keep moving Ginny, keep moving.....10-20 feet from the finish my right calf grabbed me so bad I had to stop, nothing else I could do......I am alone, staring at the finish line, the photographer is there and I had grabbing my calf at a dead stop! My husband saw me and came to me, so I leaned on him, we are both rubbing that dang calf....it finally let up enough for me to cross the finish line.....but I was so disappointed. Really???? 10 feet in front of the finish? BUT I still had a personal best! I couldn't believe it....for whatever reason they had the sign that showed your time turned off, so I figured I must be way over 3 hours and they just turned it off...but Ken said you had a really good time...I said I did? I looked at my Garmin at it said 2:46. I know to you runners this is not that good of a time but it is the best Ihave ever done, so I was thrilled!! Ken said when he saw me approaching the finish he thought Wow she is doing good! So even with my calf I did well and I am just so happy! Bring on the next one in September!!!<br />
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GinnyGinny Besshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02417461710904494370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378939186955172984.post-13350942748014713742013-07-29T11:35:00.000-07:002013-07-29T11:35:32.648-07:00What Happened to Summer???????I mean this morning and last night I was wearing my winter robe and socks! In July! This just isn't right! We have approximately 6-8 months of winter here in northern Ohio, I need a couple paltry months of summer please before we are plunged back into cold and dreary.<br />
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My running has been going pretty well though. I guess this weather is conducive to that anyway. Ran 11 miles yesterday morning and felt really great. I am running another half marathon on August 18th so I need to get in some longish runs. Up until this past week my running has been sub par, feeling really sluggish. Don't know what causes this. One day you feel like you cannot put one foot in front of the other and a few days later you can be running like the wind! Well I never run like the wind, but you get my gist. Very perplexing as I know most runners experience this phenomena. I have tried to keep track of my runs and figure out if there is a common thread when I have these terrible runs, but I have not been able to find one, it just seems to happen. Maybe the stars aren't aligned right or something, who knows? As long as I don't stay in a running funk I guess I can handle a few bad runs.<br />
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Ran a local 5 K over the 4th of July and did pretty well for me. Ran it in 36:22 and placed 2nd in my age group. Not bad and it was fun. Always fun to place, which never happened when I was younger. Perseverance pays off I guess. <br />
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Completely off topic from my running, I became the proud grandmother of twin girls almost 2 weeks ago now!<br />
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They are too cute aren't they??? What a blessing. <br />
These two little angels are grandchildren number 9 and 10!<br />
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GinnyGinny Besshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02417461710904494370noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378939186955172984.post-2181145925540107632013-07-11T11:55:00.000-07:002013-07-11T12:22:48.219-07:00Running into Relatives!With my genealogy-obsessed coworker I have digging into my past for the past several years. Recently we discovered that my father's cousin lived less than an hour away! This was quite a find, since most all of the relatives are in the Scranton, Pa., Philadelphia Pa. area. So this cousin's father and my grandfather were brothers! I had the pleasure of meeting Jack last summer and again just last week , with an added bonus! His sisters were there visiting, so I got to meet more cousins. We had a wonderful time and I loved hearing stories that I had never heard before. We figure we may have met up sometime in Philadelphia when we were very small children. Below is a picture of my grandparent's Emma and Ambrose Murray.<br />
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They both died when I was in my teens, but I do remember them of course. I was born in Philadelphia, so I remember them being babysitters when my mom and dad would go out. One night I remember that it was snowing and my parent's specifically asking me and telling my grandparents not to let me go out in the snow! I have no idea why they would have said this, maybe I had a cold or something, I just remember that my grandparents completely ignored these instructions and we went out and played in the snow! Once we moved to NY, my grandparents would frequently visit and we would visit Philadelphia. However, I do not remember much about any other relatives. I have no idea why we were not involved with other aunts and uncles, maybe my parents were and I just don't remember. It was quite exciting then to meet my grandfather's brother's son! Below is a picture of a my grandfather, Ambrose on the right, Emma (grandmother) then Kay and Jerome ( Ambroses' brother) at my grandparents home.<br />
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Added bonus, when I met with Jack and his sisters, Peg had brought a picture of Ambrose's mother. I have never seen a picture of her. She was born In Ireland in 1863 to James Fleming and Bridget O'Hara. Her first husband was a James McCann, he died very young. It was with her 2nd husband John T Murray that she had 4 sons, Walter, Joseph, Ambrose, Jerome. You can see them listed here in the 1900 census in Scanton, Penna. Also listed are 4 other children of which we really cannot figure out the connection.<br />
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Below is the picture of my great-grandmother, Mary, with 3 of her grandchildren and a neighbor. According to my cousins, Kay and Peg, she was quite stern and you learned to mind Grandmother Murray!</div>
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Sadly, I did not connect with Jack Murray until after my father passed away. My Dad would have been so excited to meet up with one of his relatives, that I am sure he knew when he was young. They would have had so much fun talking about the past! My Dad was proud of what I had found out already, but this really would have put him over the top. </div>
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Ginny Besshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02417461710904494370noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378939186955172984.post-5071923881191124292013-06-10T04:03:00.002-07:002013-06-10T04:03:19.186-07:00Why we do this?????<br />
Those of you, who are not runners, may wonder why we do this to ouselves? We pay money to run these races, where at times, we run with cramps in our feet and calves, aching knees, nausea...we keep running even though we feel like walking (which I do), but even when I do walk, I will myself back to running even though it hurts. I really don't know how to answer the question of why we do it. For one thing, the comaraderie is awesome. I have met such wonderful people and made, I hope, lifelong friends. Before I started running the longer distances it was a pretty solitary activity. I mean it still is solitary when I do my runs, but not at the races, and I get such support from my running community. I believe some of it may be the competition, even though I know I am not going to win one of these races I compete against myself I guess. There are so many times during these races that I really want to stop, get on one of the vehicles that roam these races and tell them take me back, I am done! But I just can't make myself do it! As long as I can propel myself forward, I just cannot DNF, Did not Finish. I feel I would be disappointing not only to<br />
myself, but my friends and family, even though I know, in my heart, that they would not think any less of me if this happened, but my head just won't let me do it...I just keep going. Maybe it is because I always thought my Dad was disappointed in me as a kid, (don't mean to go deep here), but sometimes I wonder why I do it myself and it hard to figure out or explain.<br />
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Who knew that when I first took that first step out the door with running shoes over 30 years ago, that I would still be at it and running half marathons! It certainly is character building! I still haven't really explained why we do it. I would be curious of what other runners think.<br />
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By the way, I won 1st in my age group, for the first time in a half this weekend, which is probably why I am feeling emotional. It's a great feeling.<br />
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Ginny<br />
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<br />Ginny Besshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02417461710904494370noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378939186955172984.post-15465254249763001902013-06-09T14:01:00.005-07:002013-06-09T14:01:54.530-07:00Hatfield/McCoy Half Marathon....WV and KentuckyFirst of all, this was an amazing Half Marathon!<br />
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Left for the Hatfield/McCoy about 7:30 Friday morning. Driving by myself, so for the first time I used a GPS that my daughter let me borrow. Loved it! Would literally have been lost without it, even with the directions I had printed from GoogleMaps. Driving from northern Ohio to Kentucky. Once I got south of Columbus it was a beautiful drive. Not that the beginning of the drive isn't nice, but I am used to that one. I have lived in Northern Ohio so long now that I almost forgot what mountains are like. The scenery was breathtaking once I was in Kentucky, the roads are carved right out of the mountains and they are just right there. So green, everything so green, beautiful drive. There was nothing for miles and miles and then all of a sudden, just stuck there was a tiny store, looked like a mobile home almost, with a big sign Haircuts and Barber! It was just so odd. The more I drove the steeper the climb was, gave my little Rav4 quite a workout! Arrived in Pikeville, Ky about 3:30 in the afternoon. The worst part of the drive was locating the dang Hotel, had to call Marjorie, who I was rooming with...ends up I was only about 1/2 a block away, I totally missed it. Hampton Inn, great Hotel, beautiful room. Rested for about an hour and then joined the rest of our little group in the lobby and headed off to the pasta dinner. Guess we had to drive about 1/2 hour. Good food and company and then moved to an aud. itorium where they had the author, Dean King, speaking about his book "The Feud, the Hatfields & McCoys, the True Story. Very interesting and then there was a brief skit, which was a dialogue between an Hatfield and a McCoy...very good.<br />
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Headed back to the Hotel for an early night. <br />
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Arose about 5:00 a.m. The marathon started at 7 and the 2nd Half Marathon, which is the one I was doing, started at 8. Went downstairs and had a complimentary breakfast, the Hotel started their buffet at 4:30 just for the runners, thank you Hampton Inn! Those that were running the marathon left around 5:30. My friend, Cindy and I left around 6:30 for our half, thinking we had plenty of time, it was about a 40 min. drive, WRONG...first of all the ramp to the highway we were supposed to take was closed for whatever reason. Had to take a little detour to get back on and then we missed the first turn, had to double back, so by this time the marathon runners were on the same highway! Not good. Finally we are clear of runners and decide to take a shortcut! Another bad idea, we ran into the runners again and this time there was no escape! We had to follow a police car at about 5 miles an hour, runners on the right, cars on the left on a 2 lane road, with cars coming from the opposite direction also! We did get to see a lot of scenery though, going that slow, the world's smallest horst, the Hatfield homestead. We also passed our friends, already running the marathon! Needless to say, we missed our Half Marathon start by almost an hour. As there was not time limit for the race, we just jumped in where we were supposed to start, which was the 1/2 way point for the marathoners, so the start was still up and running, so we were going to be timed. I started out way too fast for me and I knew I was going too fast and I just couldn't control myself. It was mostly downhill at the start through the small town of Matewan WV, lovely , you could see peoples flower and vegtable gardens right at the road, everything was just so green, so pretty.. The first 5 miles, I would say was rolling hills, small hills, seemed to be more down than up at this point, so I was cruisin, some of the marathoners were showing up behind and passing me at this point. Everyone saying good job, as I suspect they thought I was running the marathon, they didn't know I had just started. I did start to slow some and then had to slow a lot as we came to about a 2 mile area that was all mud. Not deep mud, but very sticky and slippery mud. As I am not used to this at all, I had to walk some as I did not want to do a fanny plant in the mud. I don't know exactly what mile I was at, but afterwards we came to a golf course to run through which contained a swinging bridge. It was a little disconcerting, as it made me a bit dizzy, cause as the runners ahead ran over it, it swayed and you could see through the slats to the water below, it was different though. There were some steep hills at this point, not long hills, but steep. After the golf course we were running through the woods again, I know I sound like a broken record, but it was so beautiful, vegatation right to the edge of the road....I noticed wild roses, which I didn't even know existed, looked like grape vines too, no gaps, just green , green, green and gorgeous valleys and bridges and water falls and just mountains no matter where you looked. We heard roosters crowing and turkeys gobbling , I saw chipmonks running back into the woods in front of me. A few homes, but not many. At one point there was a beautiful colt , just beautiful and there were 3 men passing me at the time, one of the men said "man, that is a beautiful dog" Just cracked me up, I laughed for quite a while thinking of that comment, we all did around him. A lot of hills now and I was getting really tired and my back, right between my shoulder blades was killing me. I admit, I walked a lot after this. One of my friends who was doing the marathon came up behind me and stayed with me up one the steeper inclines, not sure I would have made it without her. Thanks Tessa!!! She ran on and I kept plodding alone. <br />
<br />
The last 3 miles were very hard for me. I really could not wait to see that finish line, it seemed like it would never come, but once I was in sight of the finish, I just could not walk, so I did run down the chute, which was kind of long. BUT my friends were there yelling my name and cheering me on, so that helped a lot! I think my time was 3:08, which isn't my worst, but I hate finishing over 3 hours. Oh well , with all the hills, that isn't bad for me. I never train on hills. There were a Hatfield and McCoy standing at the finish line who high-fived you as soon as you crossed, which was cool and then they handed you an ICED towel! It felt heavenly, as it was pretty warm at this point. Oh and they had watermelon, which also hit the spot. I felt okay, but just could not eat anything, except the watermelon, they didn't have chocolate milk, so I just drank something and sat down for a little while with my friends, got up and walked a little. We had to catch a shuttle bus to take us back to the car. Got on the bus, and not 5 minutes later I thought I was going to be sick. I just sat there with my head down, holding the towel to my face, but I got worse and worse, broke out in a cold sweat, I was just waiting for the leg cramps to begin, but they didn't and I started feeling better, thank goodness. However, in the meantime, my friend was getting motion sickness, so now she was sick! Believe me it wasn't fun , in small school bus, going around very steep curves and up and down mountains when you are not feeling well. That was some long ride! We were so thankful when we got off that bus! Unfortunately we had to get back in the car and drive 40 minutes to the Hotel, around all those curves and hills...oh my, neither one of us felt well. Couldn't wait to lie down back in the room.<br />
<br />
This was a wonderful race though. You have got to go down and run it if you can. I will go back, long drive, motion sickness and all!<br />
<br />
Ginny<br />Ginny Besshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02417461710904494370noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378939186955172984.post-66239422125939693152013-05-22T10:30:00.001-07:002013-05-22T10:30:01.160-07:00Cleveland Half Race Report......trains, trains and automobilesI have run the Cleveland Half Marathon twice before, both times I booked a Hotel and stayed in Cleveland. This time I signed up too late and all the hotels nearby the race were booked, so Ken and I decided we would just drive into Cleveland the day of the race. Having never done this before we were not sure about parking, RTA riding etc. The website for the marathon stated that runners should be at the start by 6:00 a.m. as there would be road closures. So.....we left Sandusky at 3:50! Yes that is 3:50 A.M.!!! Yikes! That meant arising about 3:00. I usually don't sleep well the night before anyway, but poor Ken. Needless to say, very little traffic at that time of the morning! Still no traffic the closer we get to Cleveland, we are thinking the race is today, right??? Parked at the West Side Market on 25th Street to take the RTA into Cleveland, got our tickets and as soon as we walked down the stairs a train pulled in....yes! Get to Tower City, get off one train, go through the gate to catch a train to Brown's Stadium and again..immediately there is another train! I am thinking this is going to be a good race for me, everything is going soooooo smoothly! Arrive at Brown's Stadium around 5:45 and still not many runners, so much for having to be there at 6:00 a.m.! Next year we will know better. It really wasn't bad hanging around the stadium...it was completely open and they were selling some refreshments. We sat in the stands and struck up a couple of conversations with fellow runners. What is so neat about this race is there are no port-a-potties at the Start, all the restrooms in the stadium were open for the runners, so you get to use clean, flushing toilets! Let me tell you, that is quite a treat for a runner!!!<br />
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Decide that it is time to wander to the start where you line up according to your pace. This means that being the "fast" runner that I am....I am in the rear with the walkers...oh well, I will never get used to this, but it is what it is. I did hear a few comments from some of the runners walking by, you know the ones I mean, the ones that are jogging around, bare chested, stretching, young jocks (sorry but they irritate me)..anyway they were making fun..pointing at the pace corral saying "this is where you belong, with the walkers" I just wanted to slap them!! You know what???? So, it takes me almost 3 hours to run a half, I am doing it, aren't I? Come back to me when you are 63 years old and see if you are still running!!!! Sorry, I digress! Join the rest of the runners and wait for race to start. There was a moment of silence for the Boston Marathon, then the National anthem........"Cleveland Rocks" starts blaring over the loud speakers....I just love that, I start getting emotional, I always do this right before a race starts and my brain starts saying "why am I doing this again?" That passes, it always does. Takes about 10 minutes for us at the back to get to the start and we are off!!! I forget that the first mile is uphill, how I forget this I don't know, but it is a good way to ensure that one doesn't start out too fast. However, I am feeling tired and sluggish and my legs already ache, not a good sign...By mile 3 I am getting warm, glad that at this point it is overcast and breezy, although why the breeze always seems to be in my face and not at my back, I can not figure.....glad I am carrying my own water. I still don't feel that great, but keeping my pace. Mile 5, I am starting to wear out, for some reason mile 5 is always bad for me, but I talk myself out of it...still going pretty good for me. Miles 6 through 9 are going through some neat neighborhoods, edgewater was earlier in the race, but going through Ohio City and Tremont is nice, although I don't remember much of it, unfortunately I was dwelling on how tired my legs were. I kept anticipating a huge hill at mile 9, which I thought I remembered from last year, but it isn't there, so I either imagined it last year or they changed the course a little. I took a Gel at this point, but I never seem to get that jolt of energy that other people say they feel when they take one, actually I felt a little nauseous, but I got over it.<br />
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At Mile 11 we started going over the Lorain_Carnegie Bridge which is quite a climb, I had to walk a lot of it, the sun was really beating down by now, but what goes up must come down, right? I tried to pick up my pace some going down, but I couldn't even do that for too long and I had to stop again and walk. Mile 12 I am thinking that maybe I will listen to some music, so I put my earphones in. I have never used music while running a Half before....I didn't like it. Took them out, the spectator crowd was picking up now anyway as we were back in downtown. Lots of noise and bands playing, which kind of got me going again, but then the right foot cramped up and stopped me in my tracks.....no, no...I will keep going gosh darn it! Rounding the corner and I can see the line of American Flags leading to the finish line...I am not going to get a PR, but I am going to finish under 3 hours if it kills me!!!!! I do finish and it doesn't kill me. As soon as I cross the line I look for Ken and see him right away! Yay, I made it!!! Once again I finished a Half and at that moment I do feel proud! My official time was 2:58:34, so under 3, not what I wanted but I will take it. <br />
<br />
I really enjoy this Half and will do it again. Love Cleveland!!!!<br />
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<br />Ginny Besshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02417461710904494370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378939186955172984.post-16431016690794221422013-05-05T06:59:00.002-07:002013-05-05T06:59:15.192-07:00I ran 14 miles this morning in just under 3 hours! This is great for me! I am so excited. I usually run a half in just under three , so to run 14 at the same is an accomplishment! I almost bailed at mile 12, thought to myself that that was enough, but I gave myself a talking to and went for it. So glad that I did. The whole run felt pretty good. Not saying, that my legs didn't get tired, because they did, they always do, but I did okay.<br />
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For these longer runs, I have been using Jeff Galloway's run/walk method. I read , that for the marathon, he and his wife use 30 second run, 30 second walk. I started out using exactly that this morning, or as exact as I can get, I still don't have a watch, so I count in my head. As the run progressed I kept the 30 second walk, but upped the running. It really does seem to work , to keep me from getting so tired.<br />
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I did register for the Cleveland Rite Aid Half marathon on May 19. I hope, hope that I do well, I would love to break 2:45 for the Half! I would be a happy woman. I will never be fast, but I would be happy with that.<br />
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I have been feeling kinda good doing these longer runs lately, dare I think that I might do another marathon? It has been niggling in my brain the past few weeks. What I would like to do is the Marine Corps marathon in Washington D.C. and wait until after my 65th birthday. That would be November of 2014, since I will turn 65 Oct 31st of that year. Then I would be in the older age group...I don't know, we shall see what happens.<br />
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Beautiful day here today. Hopefully get outside and do some planting today. Also cooking out for the first time this year. Love it!Ginny Besshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02417461710904494370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378939186955172984.post-36257152576143107742013-04-24T16:23:00.001-07:002013-04-24T16:23:34.324-07:00Born to run? Not really.Some people are born to run, I am not one of them!! In school I was very non-athletic. You know, one of those that are always picked last for teams, left standing there while the team captain knows that they will have to pick you because you are the only one left? Yep, that was me, how humiliating, it still hurts. I was a little bit on the chubby side in school, could not run fast, had no interest in sports. In my senior year I finally decided that I could stand to lose a little weight, and I did! Just set my mind to it and lost probably 20 pounds or so, was able to keep it off over the years, but never by exercising, I just never ate! In my mid- 20's aerobics was the craze and a friend and I signed up for a class at the Y, found out that I was pretty good at the aerobic thing and actually got chosen, along with some others to demonstrate at a local mall, pretty nifty for someone who had always been chosen last. Plus, the aerobics helped keep my weight down and I could eat! So....a couple of years later I started the running and have not quit in 35 years. I have never been fast, or had good form, or looked like a runner, I just run. I can't tell you how running has helped my self-confidence. I have found, over the past 5 years, since I started running the longer distances, the running is as much a mental exercise as a physical one. I can tell you that there have been times during a half marathon when I felt I could not put one foot in front of the other, but have been determined that I will not, not finish that half marathon! I have had aches and pains and still continued to run. Many, many times I really do not feel like getting up at 4:30 a.m. so that I can get that run in before work, but 9 times out of 10 I do it. I get discouraged because of my slow pace, and always bringing up the rear at races, but I keep on, just telling myself that I am doing it, I am not sitting on a couch somewhere, I have run a marathon! For me that is amazing and I have to be reminded many times that it is quite a feat, especially for those of us who are not fast, not born to run, it does not come easy for us, every mile sometimes is hard, but we do it and we do it over and over again. <br />
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I hope this does not sound like I am patting myself on the back and saying what a wonderful person I am. Just wanted to emphasize that you do not have to be "born to run" you just do it! The satisfaction you get crossing that finish line is amazing and it doesn't diminish no matter how many time you do it, even coming in dead last, which fortunately I have so far avoided, but even if I did come in last, I did it gosh darn it, and it wasn't easy, never has been.<br />
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My gym teacher would be so proud!Ginny Besshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02417461710904494370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378939186955172984.post-6354504843881964072013-03-12T07:22:00.003-07:002013-03-12T07:45:47.816-07:00I have been feeling so good lately, that is kind of scares me! What happened? I always run the same, wear the same shoes..etc etc...what makes us have these wonderful runs and then out of the blue, a streak of terrible runs? Wish someone could give me a little insight into this phenomena, because I know it happens to a lot of runners. Part of it , for me anyway, I know is the winter, but heck it still is winter around here! Maybe it is all mental, wish I had an answer. All I know is, for the time being, I am going to go with this feeling of euphoria I have been having with my runs. Even the weight training hasn't been bothering me, and usually I do not look forward to that at all. Also, I feel addicted again, like I did when I first started running, it's like I can't take a day off, I have to do something, whether it be a run, or weight training, or the walk/ jog DVD. I have done something now for 10 days in a row and I NEVER do that! I like the feeling, but I am a little obsessed! Right now, I am at work wondering if I should work out over my lunch hour....never do that either.<br />
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Oh well....I will just go with it and hope that I am still motivated a month from now.<br />
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Happy running!<br />
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Oh...here is a pic of my new running shoes! Just arrived UPS yesterday, love the colors, can't wait to take them out for a test drive.<br />
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Ginny Besshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02417461710904494370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378939186955172984.post-64774094038924239772013-03-11T07:46:00.003-07:002013-03-11T07:46:59.593-07:00Today would have been my Dad's 96th birthday. He passed away almost 2 years ago now. We didn't always see to eye to eye, but I know how much he loved me and I miss him.<br />
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What a beautiful weekend! I was planning on doing a longish run on Sunday. Longish to me these days is over 5 miles.. Rain was predicted for Sunday, so I decided to get out on Saturday instead. Did 7 miles and felt great! I haven't felt this good running in months and it is such a relief. The weather was perfect, sunny, in the 40's and no wind. I actually got to run without layers of clothing...just an running shirt and pants...so liberating. Sunday ended up even better...it did not rain and temps were in the 60's, I couldn't resist and went out for another 3! Ordinarily do not run 2 days in a row anymore, especially after I have done a longer one, but could not pass up those temps! I didn't feel as good as I did on Saturday, but it was still good. Today is rainy and windy and snow showers predicted for tomorrow...Spring in Ohio!<br />
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On the days that I have not been going outside to run, I am continuing to do some free weight training and the walk/jog 4 mile DVD with Leslie Sansone, this is really a good DVd and gets the old heart rate up...I really think it has helped me with my speed, believe it or not, she really has you moving continuously for about 45 minutes...highly recommend if anyone is in the market for a good workout inside.<br />
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I am a little concerned about a weird pain that I have been experiencing in my left calf. It is a dull ache and it feels like it is going to cramp up, but it never does. What has me concerned is I was reading an article about blood clots in runners by Jenny Hatfield and the sensation I have been experiencing is one of the symptoms. If it continues, I will have to have it checked out. If I had not read the article I would not even be worried about it.<br />
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Made this great potato salad this weekend:<br />
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<span class="checkbox-formatted"><input id="cbxIngredient" name="ctl00$CenterColumnPlaceHolder$recipeTest$recipe$ingredients$rptIngredientsCol1$ctl01$cbxIngredient" type="checkbox" /></span><br />
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<span class="ingredient-amount" id="lblIngAmount">2 pounds</span><span class="ingredient-name" id="lblIngName">clean, scrubbed new red potatoes</span></div>
<li data-grams="300" data-ingredientid="16317" id="liIngredient"><label><span class="checkbox-formatted"><input id="cbxIngredient" name="ctl00$CenterColumnPlaceHolder$recipeTest$recipe$ingredients$rptIngredientsCol1$ctl02$cbxIngredient" type="checkbox" /></span><div class="fl-ing" itemprop="ingredients">
<span class="ingredient-amount" id="lblIngAmount">6</span><span class="ingredient-name" id="lblIngName">eggs</span></div>
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<li data-grams="454" data-ingredientid="5375" id="liIngredient"><label><span class="checkbox-formatted"><input id="cbxIngredient" name="ctl00$CenterColumnPlaceHolder$recipeTest$recipe$ingredients$rptIngredientsCol1$ctl03$cbxIngredient" type="checkbox" /></span><div class="fl-ing" itemprop="ingredients">
<span class="ingredient-amount" id="lblIngAmount">1 pound</span><span class="ingredient-name" id="lblIngName">bacon</span></div>
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<li data-grams="110" data-ingredientid="4397" id="liIngredient"><label><span class="checkbox-formatted"><input id="cbxIngredient" name="ctl00$CenterColumnPlaceHolder$recipeTest$recipe$ingredients$rptIngredientsCol1$ctl04$cbxIngredient" type="checkbox" /></span><div class="fl-ing" itemprop="ingredients">
<span class="ingredient-amount" id="lblIngAmount">1</span><span class="ingredient-name" id="lblIngName">onion, finely chopped</span></div>
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<li data-grams="40" data-ingredientid="4292" id="liIngredient"><label><span class="checkbox-formatted"><input id="cbxIngredient" name="ctl00$CenterColumnPlaceHolder$recipeTest$recipe$ingredients$rptIngredientsCol2$ctl01$cbxIngredient" type="checkbox" /></span><div class="fl-ing" itemprop="ingredients">
<span class="ingredient-amount" id="lblIngAmount">1 stalk</span><span class="ingredient-name" id="lblIngName">celery, finely chopped</span></div>
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<li data-grams="440" data-ingredientid="6294" id="liIngredient"><label><span class="checkbox-formatted"><input id="cbxIngredient" name="ctl00$CenterColumnPlaceHolder$recipeTest$recipe$ingredients$rptIngredientsCol2$ctl02$cbxIngredient" type="checkbox" /></span><div class="fl-ing" itemprop="ingredients">
<span class="ingredient-amount" id="lblIngAmount">2 cups</span><span class="ingredient-name" id="lblIngName">mayonnaise</span></div>
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<li data-grams="0" data-ingredientid="16421" id="liIngredient"><label><span class="checkbox-formatted"><input id="cbxIngredient" name="ctl00$CenterColumnPlaceHolder$recipeTest$recipe$ingredients$rptIngredientsCol2$ctl03$cbxIngredient" type="checkbox" /></span><div class="fl-ing" itemprop="ingredients">
<span class="ingredient-name" id="lblIngName">salt and pepper to taste</span></div>
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Directions</h3>
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<li><span class="plaincharacterwrap break">Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add potatoes and cook until tender but still firm, about 15 minutes. Drain and set in the refrigerator to cool.</span></li>
<li><span class="plaincharacterwrap break">Place eggs in a saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring water to a boil and immediately remove from heat. Cover and let eggs stand in hot water for 10 to 12 minutes. Remove from hot water, cool, peel and chop.</span></li>
<li><span class="plaincharacterwrap break">Place bacon in a large, deep skillet. Cook over medium high heat until evenly brown. Drain, crumble and set aside.</span></li>
<li><span class="plaincharacterwrap break">Chop the cooled potatoes, leaving skin on. Add to a large bowl, along with the eggs, bacon, onion and celery. Add mayonnaise, salt and pepper to taste. Chill for an hour before serving.</span></li>
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Ginny Besshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02417461710904494370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378939186955172984.post-39419779202151648922013-03-03T04:00:00.001-08:002013-03-03T04:00:30.538-08:00Because I had such a good run on Friday, I was all set to go out and try to do a longish run this morning. I was going to try for at least 6 miles. Anyway, got up at 5:30 this morning, walked downstairs and saw that it had snowed overnight again! Darn it! It isn't much, but enough that I don't want to go out in it! Darn, darn darn! I am so sick of this winter, I could cry. I know I can get out there, but it is probably slippery and it just dashed my intentions. Guess I will wait now until it is light and see how it is. I do not want to use the treadmill. I really think I do suffer from the seasonal disorder where the lack of sunshine really despresses you. The weather should not affect my mood as much as it does. There is nothing we can do about it and I live in an area where the winters are long, long, long! Should be used to it. Just looked outside again, it is starting to get light, made me even more depressed, looks worse in the light. Plan #2...I will do Leslie Sansone's walk/jog 4 miles in my living room, not the same, but better than nothing I guess, I just can't take the treadmill this morning. At this rate I will never be ready for a half marathon in May. I have to say, in my younger days, I would get out and run in any weather...I have run during sleet storms in Kansas City where I would sink ankle deep in slush! I have run in Colorado where it was so cold one day that a person yelled out to me "are you crazy, it is 20 below zero" , no lie, we had just moved there and I had no idea it was so cold. But I much prefer when I am running in the warmth with sweat running down my legs, now that is my kind of run! I totally should be living somewhere in the South.<div>
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So, do you think I have gone on and on about the weather enough? This too shall pass, right??? right???? I live in fear of another year without a summer that occurred sometime last century. I couldn't take it, I tell you, I couldn't take it! </div>
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On a more cheerful note...I have to brag on my granddaughter, Mikayla. She is 10 years old and is becoming quite a basketball player. She played at her school earlier this year and now she is playing at the YMCA. She is the only girl and can play with the best of those boys! It is so much fun to watch. My 2 other granddaughters are grreat at sports also. Cassidy shines at softball and so does Meadow. Meadow is only turning 10 and has been asked to play with girls much older than she. Cassidy has always been good at softball and she is a junior in high school now With softball season right around the corner, I am looking forward to many games. They certainly did not get this talent from this grandmother! I am terrible at sports, I will stick to running! I was always the last person standing when choosing teams (Gees, I hated that feeling) Just thinking of that makes me feel humiliated all these years later.</div>
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Okay, think I might go out and run anyway, or maybe not......</div>
Ginny Besshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02417461710904494370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7378939186955172984.post-25791402043911471292013-03-01T06:24:00.000-08:002013-03-01T06:24:07.441-08:00Hurrah!!! I ran 4 miles this morning and I felt great! First time in a long time that I had a good run. I am so relieved. I was beginning to think that I had lost it. It was cold and a little breezy, but streets were dry. Almost didn't go out, was feeling really lazy and the thought of going out in the cold for another lousy run, just did not appeal to me at all, but out I went, and I am so glad that I did. Now I have to make up my mind whether or not to run the Cleveland Half in May. I had a terrible experience there last year. It was a beautiful day in May, but unusually warm for Cleveland. In fact we had an unusally warm March last year, but then it turned cold in April and May...anyway, the day of the Half was sunny and hot even. I felt pretty good for the first 5 or 6 miles, but by mile 9 I almost gave it up and boarded "the bus"..having never, ever not finished a race, I just couldn't make myself do it, so I kept plugging alone. I remember thinking to myself that it was so hot and I wasn't sweating and thought that was odd. There was a lot of walking, but I did run over the finish line with a terrible time of over 3 hours. Saw my husband waiting for me, got some water and walked around some, feeling fine....all of sudden I started to feel very sick to my stomach and sat down on the curb, feeling worse and worse, I finally asked my husband to walk to the medical tent and get someone...while he was gone I threw up (luckily it was mostly water) and feeling very shaky. My husband finally arrived with someone and they walked me over to the medical tent, took my BP, which was very low, and I have HBP normally....then the leg cramps started, from the tip of my toes to my waist, both legs simultaneously, I didn't know where to grab, it was awful...by the way the tent was full, I was not the only one who experienced problems that day...finally, the doctor asked my husband to hold my legs so they could get an IV in me....almost immediately I got relief. In a few minutes, I was able to drink some chocolate milk and felt so much better. They wouldn't let me go until I could get up and walk around the tent twice, did that, and I was done. I have never had this happen to me before, I don't know if it was because it was so hot that day and I hadn't really run in the heat that year because Northern Ohio does not normally get heat like that in the Spring. All I know is that I hope it never happens again! Watch, this year it will probably be snowing! That is entirely possible also!<br />
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Oh what the heck??? I will probably sign up for it again. It would be nice to see the course, I felt so bad last year I didn't take in the scenery much, I was too miserable.Ginny Besshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02417461710904494370noreply@blogger.com0