After hours of packing, frantic last minute projects for work, and bittersweet goodbyes to the children and parents I work with...I have officially relocated to Pennsylvania for the next 4 months! Translation = It's time for me to start officially training for the marathon.
(Inner thought: "Holy Macaroni, Batman. I'm really doing this.")
Things have started off quite well, though! I arrived on Thursday afternoon, unpacked, settled in... and managed to get my first run in at 7 am on Friday morning! :) I ran again on Saturday morning - and then scored my first PA long run on Sunday morning! It was only 6 miles... but it was the longest I've run in about a month, so it was a big accomplishment for me.
The wonderful discovery I made, was that on Sunday, after I ran the 6 miles, I had to work an entire day of Celtic Fling (the festival going on this weekend at the Ren Faire). I assumed that by the time my duties were finished, around 8 pm, I would be EXHAUSTED. I was wrong! :) Not only did I still have energy at 8 pm, I was able to stay out for the final concert and then even catch a beer at 10:30!! Mind you, I fully expect to be completely dead after I run my first 10+ mile run... but at least now I know that 6 miles is no longer "killer" for me.
We start rehearsals on Tuesday, so it will be interesting to see how I'm able to keep up my training with rehearsals... but I know I can do it. It's a marathon, gosh darnit! It will be one of the greatest accomplishments of my life! I think that's worth a couple of months of hard work... :)
Until next time....
Your-central-pennsylvania-runner,
Kelly
Monday, June 29, 2009
Thursday, June 18, 2009
"Fun" in the Sun
So I'm back in VA for a few days - visiting family, packing up some things for PA, and taking my car back to NYC... and I decided, of course, to go for a run! What could be better? My parents live in beautiful suburbia! Mountain views, quaint houses, people outside mowing their lawns... just wonderful.
Or not.
I did not factor in the 90 DEGREE HEAT that was in existence as I went running this afternoon! I had only planned for a 2 miler, due to time constraints - but after one mile, I was about to puke! My stomach was turning so much I started to regret everything I had eaten. Except for the fact, that I had eaten really well that day! I'd had at least 6 8-ounce glasses of water already, an solid breakfast, and a healthy protein based lunch about 2 hours prior. Nothing was sitting on my stomach, things had digested, and I had no dairy sitting in there waiting to curdle... I couldn't figure it out. That was, until I started getting light-headed. Yikes! I realized that if I'm getting light-headed after only a mile... something was up.
I should have known it was the temperature!
It took me an extra 3-4 minutes post my run (which was only 2 miles with a run/walk second mile) for my heartrate to get back to resting rate again. I was beat red and sweating more than I do on my long runs! It was nuts. I was able to cool down and god bless my parents for having a pool, because that brought me right back to normal. So here's what I learned today:
Lesson #1: I need to start training outdoors on a regular basis.
Lesson #2: I need to run EARLY in the morning, or right around dusk. The middle of the day is too hot!
Lesson #3: It is possible to feel like you will puke... and not do it.
Lesson #4: I need a pool. I'm sure my apartment could fit one. :-P
So in conclusion, I'll be hitting the gym tomorrow for the bulk of my workout, and doing a 1-mile run in the heat tomorrow morning. I'll ease myself into this summer weather. By the time I have to put on layers and layers of clothing for the Ren Faire - it shouldn't feel like much!
Here's to getting in better shape for the hot weather....
Signed,
Your over-heated runner,
Kelly
Or not.
I did not factor in the 90 DEGREE HEAT that was in existence as I went running this afternoon! I had only planned for a 2 miler, due to time constraints - but after one mile, I was about to puke! My stomach was turning so much I started to regret everything I had eaten. Except for the fact, that I had eaten really well that day! I'd had at least 6 8-ounce glasses of water already, an solid breakfast, and a healthy protein based lunch about 2 hours prior. Nothing was sitting on my stomach, things had digested, and I had no dairy sitting in there waiting to curdle... I couldn't figure it out. That was, until I started getting light-headed. Yikes! I realized that if I'm getting light-headed after only a mile... something was up.
I should have known it was the temperature!
It took me an extra 3-4 minutes post my run (which was only 2 miles with a run/walk second mile) for my heartrate to get back to resting rate again. I was beat red and sweating more than I do on my long runs! It was nuts. I was able to cool down and god bless my parents for having a pool, because that brought me right back to normal. So here's what I learned today:
Lesson #1: I need to start training outdoors on a regular basis.
Lesson #2: I need to run EARLY in the morning, or right around dusk. The middle of the day is too hot!
Lesson #3: It is possible to feel like you will puke... and not do it.
Lesson #4: I need a pool. I'm sure my apartment could fit one. :-P
So in conclusion, I'll be hitting the gym tomorrow for the bulk of my workout, and doing a 1-mile run in the heat tomorrow morning. I'll ease myself into this summer weather. By the time I have to put on layers and layers of clothing for the Ren Faire - it shouldn't feel like much!
Here's to getting in better shape for the hot weather....
Signed,
Your over-heated runner,
Kelly
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Am I really a "runner?"
So today, I was part of an exclusive running clinic held in at a high-end gym here in New York City.
Wait a minute. Hold the phone.
I would like Kelly Morris, the girl who grew up in Lynchburg, VA and thought that Roanoke, VA was the "big city" because it had a mall with two stories, to reread that first sentence. I don't think she'd EVER believe it.
First - she would still be in awe of the fact that she did anything on a "high-end" level in NYC. But more importantly, she'd do a double take that she was ever included in a RUNNING clinic. Never in her 23 years of pre-NYC life would she have believed that she would become a runner.
So, here I am. Kelly Morris, the girl who now lives in New York City, has been running for over a year, completely 12 different road races, and is currently signed up for the NYC Marathon on November 1st. I've met more celebrities than I can count, I've worked everywhere from high-end business offices, to infamous desert cafe's, to people's homes changing baby diapers. I have learned since moving to this city that if I commit myself to something and put in the time and effort - I can accomplish it.
In short, I am a COMPLETELY different person than I was just a few short years ago. And today confirmed it.
Back to the point... I was included in a running clinic held by Dr. Nicholas Romanov, the creator and premier teacher of the POSE Method of Running. It is the same method that is taught at La Palestra, the gym owned by a father that I work for, and I was given the chance to participate thanks to an invite from that same father. Trying to explain here what the POSE method is would be impossible for two reasons: 1 - there are several aspects to it and it takes quite a while to actually adapt to your own body, and 2 - I'm really just barely grasping the concept myself. The basic idea though, is that it is the first ever method of running that can work for EVERYONE - regardless of age, experience, body type, etc. It is also a way to run that has been proven to nearly eliminate injury for those that use it's methods. So you can see why I was interested!
Long story short, I did feel like I gained a great deal more knowledge about the POSE method and I'm excited to slowly begin to work on applying it to my marathon training. I wish I had time for more, but I'm grateful for any help I receive! And I think the thing that actually hit me the most today was the answer to my question:
Am I really a "runner?"
For the first time today, as I watched myself running on tape, and surrounded by other experienced runners... the answer is, yes.
Yes.
Yes!
Wait a minute. Hold the phone.
I would like Kelly Morris, the girl who grew up in Lynchburg, VA and thought that Roanoke, VA was the "big city" because it had a mall with two stories, to reread that first sentence. I don't think she'd EVER believe it.
First - she would still be in awe of the fact that she did anything on a "high-end" level in NYC. But more importantly, she'd do a double take that she was ever included in a RUNNING clinic. Never in her 23 years of pre-NYC life would she have believed that she would become a runner.
So, here I am. Kelly Morris, the girl who now lives in New York City, has been running for over a year, completely 12 different road races, and is currently signed up for the NYC Marathon on November 1st. I've met more celebrities than I can count, I've worked everywhere from high-end business offices, to infamous desert cafe's, to people's homes changing baby diapers. I have learned since moving to this city that if I commit myself to something and put in the time and effort - I can accomplish it.
In short, I am a COMPLETELY different person than I was just a few short years ago. And today confirmed it.
Back to the point... I was included in a running clinic held by Dr. Nicholas Romanov, the creator and premier teacher of the POSE Method of Running. It is the same method that is taught at La Palestra, the gym owned by a father that I work for, and I was given the chance to participate thanks to an invite from that same father. Trying to explain here what the POSE method is would be impossible for two reasons: 1 - there are several aspects to it and it takes quite a while to actually adapt to your own body, and 2 - I'm really just barely grasping the concept myself. The basic idea though, is that it is the first ever method of running that can work for EVERYONE - regardless of age, experience, body type, etc. It is also a way to run that has been proven to nearly eliminate injury for those that use it's methods. So you can see why I was interested!
Long story short, I did feel like I gained a great deal more knowledge about the POSE method and I'm excited to slowly begin to work on applying it to my marathon training. I wish I had time for more, but I'm grateful for any help I receive! And I think the thing that actually hit me the most today was the answer to my question:
Am I really a "runner?"
For the first time today, as I watched myself running on tape, and surrounded by other experienced runners... the answer is, yes.
Yes.
Yes!
Friday, June 12, 2009
The "Did She Run" update!
The question: Did Kelly run in the rain?
The answer: No.
The question: Did Kelly run?
The answer: Yes!
The smarty-pants methodology behind this series of questions?: It didn't end up raining! Ha!
So yes, I got my run in! I ran about 4.5 miles around the shire, then around the parking lot, then around the shire, then back around the parking lot... and kept that up for about 45 minutes. Not the most exciting run - but it felt GREAT! :)
Getting excited and nervous about executing my marathon training while in PA. I'm going to have to travel out a bit I think to Gettysburg and such just to get those 14+ mile runs in. I would shoot myself if I had to run the shire in that many circles!!!
BIG running clinic tomorrow with a world renown marathon runner, coach, and author. Will post more details after!
The answer: No.
The question: Did Kelly run?
The answer: Yes!
The smarty-pants methodology behind this series of questions?: It didn't end up raining! Ha!
So yes, I got my run in! I ran about 4.5 miles around the shire, then around the parking lot, then around the shire, then back around the parking lot... and kept that up for about 45 minutes. Not the most exciting run - but it felt GREAT! :)
Getting excited and nervous about executing my marathon training while in PA. I'm going to have to travel out a bit I think to Gettysburg and such just to get those 14+ mile runs in. I would shoot myself if I had to run the shire in that many circles!!!
BIG running clinic tomorrow with a world renown marathon runner, coach, and author. Will post more details after!
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Rain, Rain, Go Away...
So I'm in Pennsylvania for some photo shoots and promo opportunities for the Ren Faire - and the rain won't stop coming down!
But... I'm determined. My running gear is laid out, my rain hat is ready, and I'm going for a run in the morning, damnit! Besides, there's something kind of inspiring about running in the rain. You feel more accomplished than usual.
So look for the update tomorrow: Will Kelly run in the rain? Will she run even if it's a thunderstorm?
The answer... TBD. The attitude? Total badass.
But... I'm determined. My running gear is laid out, my rain hat is ready, and I'm going for a run in the morning, damnit! Besides, there's something kind of inspiring about running in the rain. You feel more accomplished than usual.
So look for the update tomorrow: Will Kelly run in the rain? Will she run even if it's a thunderstorm?
The answer... TBD. The attitude? Total badass.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Getting back on track... literally!
Well, as you can see - it has been FAR too long since my last blog entry. I will also be honest in saying that while I did not regress in my running, I certainly did not "PRO-gress" either.
You see, a HUGE opportunity of developing a children's music and movement program for kids in Manhattan (all under the age of 4) sort of just fell into my lap. A paid position, that promised to use all of my creative musical instincts, as well as my ability to work with children... it was just an offer I couldn't refuse!
However, along with accepting this blessing, came HOARDS of work. Creating the courses, their descriptions and curriculum, then writing lesson plans, composing original songs, ordering the necessary supplies, and finally - executing the class. Luckily, I have a wonderful and understanding co-creator and boss who helped me through it all. Needless to say though, this amount of work sort of threw me off track with my regular running schedule!
I was all set to run the half marathon at the end of April. I was on track with training and totally pumped! Well, by the time I went to sign up for the race (about 4 weeks in advance) - they had closed it. Too many applicants they said. Damn New York! So many people!! I found this incredibly frustrating, and let it affect my training. A few weeks later though, registration opened for the Brooklyn Half-Marathon at the end of May! So, I signed up!
The story repeated itself though, in regards to my workload... I got busy. I couldn't do long runs due to time constraints. I let the work be my excuse. A good excuse - but nevertheless, an EXCUSE. By the beginning of May, it was hard to workout because I only felt guilty. I would run 3 miles - and beat myself up for not doing more. I would do 20 minutes of free weights, and think I was pathetic. I couldn't go on like that! I enjoy running!! I had to get back to that place.
So, I made the decision not to run the race. New York Road Runners once again got my money and I got nothing. :( However, I did gain back a sense of confidence in knowing that I was back in control of my life and my workouts. I completed a full body detox called "The Master Cleanse" and lost 8 pounds. 5 of them have stayed permanently off and I am feeling great! I'm back to running my 3 miles regularly now and all set to begin full, extended training for the marathon on Nov. 1st. Entry is now closed, so there is no doubt about the fact that, as they say on the t-shirts... "I'M IN!"
To kick off my training, I'm attending a running clinic this Saturday at the gym I work for. It's all about training the mind to work with the body... and allowing the body to function with the most minimal effort while running. I'm STOKED. :)
And then, in a mere 2 weeks - I move to PA! I can't believe how the time has flown. I'll be doing ALL of my training in Pennsylvania while working at the Ren Faire. Looks like the Gettysburg battlefields will be seeing a lot of me! :)
For those that are still reading this... thank you for hanging in there with me during my "blogger's leave." While I can't guarantee daily entries, look for an update every 2-3 days. This is a long journey and the only way I will succeed is to share my story. I refuse to do this alone!
I hope any and all who read this are happy with who you are. My only hope with this blog is to share my story so that perhaps, someone else might just believe they can accomplish a "Lifetime List" goal, too. It won't be easy, but I know that we can all do whatever we set our minds too.
Love,
Your-delinquent-but-still-ever-devoted-runner,
Kelly
You see, a HUGE opportunity of developing a children's music and movement program for kids in Manhattan (all under the age of 4) sort of just fell into my lap. A paid position, that promised to use all of my creative musical instincts, as well as my ability to work with children... it was just an offer I couldn't refuse!
However, along with accepting this blessing, came HOARDS of work. Creating the courses, their descriptions and curriculum, then writing lesson plans, composing original songs, ordering the necessary supplies, and finally - executing the class. Luckily, I have a wonderful and understanding co-creator and boss who helped me through it all. Needless to say though, this amount of work sort of threw me off track with my regular running schedule!
I was all set to run the half marathon at the end of April. I was on track with training and totally pumped! Well, by the time I went to sign up for the race (about 4 weeks in advance) - they had closed it. Too many applicants they said. Damn New York! So many people!! I found this incredibly frustrating, and let it affect my training. A few weeks later though, registration opened for the Brooklyn Half-Marathon at the end of May! So, I signed up!
The story repeated itself though, in regards to my workload... I got busy. I couldn't do long runs due to time constraints. I let the work be my excuse. A good excuse - but nevertheless, an EXCUSE. By the beginning of May, it was hard to workout because I only felt guilty. I would run 3 miles - and beat myself up for not doing more. I would do 20 minutes of free weights, and think I was pathetic. I couldn't go on like that! I enjoy running!! I had to get back to that place.
So, I made the decision not to run the race. New York Road Runners once again got my money and I got nothing. :( However, I did gain back a sense of confidence in knowing that I was back in control of my life and my workouts. I completed a full body detox called "The Master Cleanse" and lost 8 pounds. 5 of them have stayed permanently off and I am feeling great! I'm back to running my 3 miles regularly now and all set to begin full, extended training for the marathon on Nov. 1st. Entry is now closed, so there is no doubt about the fact that, as they say on the t-shirts... "I'M IN!"
To kick off my training, I'm attending a running clinic this Saturday at the gym I work for. It's all about training the mind to work with the body... and allowing the body to function with the most minimal effort while running. I'm STOKED. :)
And then, in a mere 2 weeks - I move to PA! I can't believe how the time has flown. I'll be doing ALL of my training in Pennsylvania while working at the Ren Faire. Looks like the Gettysburg battlefields will be seeing a lot of me! :)
For those that are still reading this... thank you for hanging in there with me during my "blogger's leave." While I can't guarantee daily entries, look for an update every 2-3 days. This is a long journey and the only way I will succeed is to share my story. I refuse to do this alone!
I hope any and all who read this are happy with who you are. My only hope with this blog is to share my story so that perhaps, someone else might just believe they can accomplish a "Lifetime List" goal, too. It won't be easy, but I know that we can all do whatever we set our minds too.
Love,
Your-delinquent-but-still-ever-devoted-runner,
Kelly
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