Sunday, February 21, 2016

Just A Normal Week (WW # 29)

Welcome to the Weekly Wrap!


This linkup is hosted by yours truly and my good friend Tricia at MissSippiPiddlin   The purpose of this link is to connect with and support other active women.  

You can summarize your whole week or just a small portion of it.  It's up to you!  Race recaps are also encouraged!  {See rules}  We hope you'll challenge yourself to come back later in the week and interact with more women.   It's a wonderful way to make new friends!



Monday - Physical Therapy
Tuesday - 4.5 miles
Wednesday - Physical Therapy
Thursday - 6 miles
Friday - Physical Therapy
Saturday - 3 miles (CCAP 5k)
Sunday - 11 miles

Total Week - 24.5 miles

Having never gone to physical therapy except once after ankle surgery, let me say -- it is hard!  They are lighting me up with stability and hip strengthening exercises.  I am often very sore either the next day or the 2nd day (just when it's time to go back).  I feel it's been one of the best decisions I've ever made.  I have an extensive list of exercises to do at home as well.


The members of our running club were offered free registration in Saturday's CCAP (Childhood Center Adult Program) 5k.  It's one of the charities the club donates to at year end.  In an effort to get some speed back, I am doing 5ks as tempo runs.  It's worked well for me in the past.

I assumed this would be a tiny race but was pleasantly surprised that the event had a respectable turnout.  Quite a few of the CCAP young adult students participated in the race assisted by Ansley's Angels.  If you've never witnessed this, it is a truly inspiring thing.

It was good to catch up with my friend Jenny.
  
It was a delightful 57 degrees and overcast.  Although the humidity was high, it's not a problem at that temperature.  My goals were to: run faster than last week, manage the hills properly, and finish strong.  Check. Check. Check.  My splits were 9:16/9:23/9:05/7:43 for an average of 9:12.  I'm still not in the 8's where I'd prefer -- and I may honestly never get back there -- but this was an improvement and much needed confidence booster.

I was honored to be rewarded for my hard work with a nice little trophy.  Everyone received a finisher's medal and blue toboggan, which I thought was nice because I don't need another T-shirt.  Oh, I also won a handmade picture frame as a door prize.  So, it was a very good day!




My long run Sunday was a test.  I had not run double digits since the Disney Marathon. I wanted confirmation my body would be OK at that distance.  It was fine!  So -- this happened...




I'd been tossing around the idea of going to New Orleans for the Rock N' Roll half marathon.  I've always wanted to participate in one of their events and this is one of the easiest to get to.  It will also add a new state to my half marathon list.  (And yeah, my buddy Tricia will be there and I was having major FOMO!)  This will be half marathon #37!  Anyone else going to be there?

And that's a wrap!

Was your week what you consider "normal"?

Anyone else race this weekend?


83 comments:

  1. I think my week was pretty normal (for how they have been lately, not when I am training for a marathon). Typically my "long" run is about 6-10 miles, and this week I did 7. It's nice to have some sort of a schedule even though I'm not training! Nice job in the race, and those are some nice prizes!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I do like somewhat of a schedule too, even when there is nothing on the immediate horizon. I'm a creature of habit and some structure.

      Delete
  2. I would totally go to NO! I haven't been there for years, and a half would be really fun. Humid, but fun!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Right now, the weather is looking ideal. Which means by next Sunday, it will be 70 degrees and 100% humidity. It's been a while since we've been there too.

      Delete
  3. I am so happy to hear your running is continuing to improve and your PT is going well! And yay!! to the RnR New Orleans. That is really exciting that you will be running there and get to see Tricia.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I wish I was in PR shape because the course looks flat and the weather (so far) is looking fantastic. Oh, well. It will be a fun trip.

      Delete
  4. 37 half-marathons? Wow! You GO GIRL!! I'm glad that the PT is going well for you that's awesome! Thanks for doing the link up! This is fun!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I guess I'll be hitting the 50 mark some time next year. Knock on wood. I really like that distance.

      Delete
  5. Great job in the 5k! Always nice to win a trophy and I love your colorful outfit!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It is nice to get an award, especially when it's not expected. I felt the day needed a little sparkle. LOL.

      Delete
  6. Woohoo! Congrats on the 5km!! 37 Half marathons!! That's amazing! Glad to hear your running is continuing to improve! PT is a great thing, I swear by it whenever I've had an injury!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I will never shy away from going to PT again. It's amazing what they can come up with to torture you too. But, it's that good kind of soreness.

      Delete
  7. Congrats on your race!!! That's awesome and I love the trophy!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you. I was pleasantly surprised. I always say the first rule about placing is to show up!

      Delete
  8. It is hard not to race when I feel so much better than I have in months. I think you will experience the same thing very soon. If I had to choose having fun at races over running in the 8s, you know I'd choose the fun!

    ReplyDelete
  9. Oh my gosh, I bet RNR New Orleans will be amazing! Yes physical therapy can be tough - I think of it like having a personal trainer insurance helps pay for. ;-) Congrats on the race and award.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It is like having a trainer! I didn't expect it to be like that for some reason. I'm looking forward to our last minute trip to NOLA.

      Delete
  10. I keep meaning to link up with you ladies when I write my weekly recap. I'm glad that the blog reconnected us, and once I finish responding to comments from Friday's post I'll be writing my weekly recap. I'll be sure to link up this time!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. That is fantastic Kathryn! We will be honored for you to join in.

      Delete
  11. Wow! Your splits were awesome! I’m glad your long run went well. That’s always encouraging! New Orleans sounds like a lot of fun! I wish I was closer. I want to run a Rock and Roll race so bad!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I've always wanted to do a RnR so I'm glad it worked out. I couldn't make plans until I knew my body was back to normal (somewhat).

      Delete
  12. Is the New Orleans RnR in late January? That's one I have considered doing...just have not bitten the bullet...yet ;-) That pic of you and Tricia with your headbands is SOOOO adorable. Congrats on your great 5K!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. No, it's next weekend! LOL. Nothing like waiting until the last minute. I didn't think about how long the letters would be when I ordered those headbands.

      Delete
    2. ha ha...well, I won't be joining you this year LOL I thought I saw (last year?) that it was in late January...it (obviously) got moved from the 2015 venue ;-)

      Delete
    3. We all need to get together and pick a race! What fun that would be.

      Delete
  13. That's great time splits for your 5k! Congratulations on your win too I bet that was a great confidence boost and a successful long run I'd say we are back in business! I can hardly wait until this weekend. I hope I'll do more planning this time around. At least we know where we're staying an how it is there. :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It's been years since we've been to NOLA. I'll have to do some research and see what looks interesting, other than the French Quarter -- which is a given. I was pleasantly surprised with the 5k. It felt good.

      Delete
  14. Congrats on your 5k race! That's cool you got a trophy! That's awesome you signed up for the Rock'n'Roll race and Tricia will be there. Love their races! Can't wait to hear about it!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I've always wanted to run a RNR race. But, I wouldn't make any plans until I knew I was healthy enough. It will be fun.

      Delete
  15. So glad you are feeling better and a RnR race sounds like so much fun. Especially in NO.
    I have never done one, in Europe they don't (yet) come to France.
    I have heard great things about PT, glad it is working for you. I can't believe it is only Feb. and you have that high humidity. Wow.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I don't know what to expect from this race. Some times that is good! I do know it is flat. Too bad I'm not in better shape as it would probably be perfect for a PR.

      Delete
  16. Sorry bout my double posting -- no idea how that happened!

    Great race. And I've no doubt you'll be faster again, but it will take time. And look at that certified coach badge. :)

    When is RnR NOLA? I should just google it I suppose. I have a second cousin getting married in NOLA Dec 11. I wouldn't know anyone at the wedding other than his parents & it would probably drive my husband nuts but . . .

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. No problem. I deleted the double entry. RnR is this Sunday. Nothing better than waiting to the last minute, huh? It should be a fun weekend though. I want to try and treat it as a training run, but the adrenaline may get to me.

      Delete
  17. RNR new orleans sounds great! I generally love RNR races and just went to Nola in the fall and had a blast.

    No races for me this weekend but I did get out to run both days!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I've heard really good things about RnR. I'm excited I get to finally participate in one.

      Delete
  18. I've heard RnR New Orleans is awesome! That race is on my bucket list. And yes, Physical Therapy is no joke! I started doing my exercises while I watched TV in the evening so it was a good trade-off...I got to watch some TV if I did my exercises. Hope you're feeling better soon! -C

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. My quads have been sore for days after single leg drop squats at PT. I had no idea it was going to be like this. Don't get me wrong, I like it. But for some reason, I thought it was going to be easy. Bahahaha.

      Delete
  19. I love your race outfit! I just bought some similar sparkly green material to make a skirt for the Irish Jig 5K. Thanks for hosting!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The Sparkle Athletic skirts are so lightweight and comfy you can add them any time you need a pop of color. I'm very impressed you can make your own.

      Delete
  20. WooHoo! I love AG awards.

    You are back!

    And running a half in New Orleans...so jealous!!

    Knock em dead!!!


    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Darlene. Unfortunately, I'm nowhere close to being able to pull off a PR on what will be a flat course with predicted great weather. But, I'll keep working on that!

      Delete
  21. Congrats on your 5K, and yes, you did run a great pace! I would love to run the New Orleans Half, but it's just not doable this year. Good for you, if you get to do it. It should be tons of fun! Great Running Week for you, despite physical therapy! :):)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The PT is killing me and helping me at the same time. I guess I shouldn't complain.

      Delete
  22. I keep thinking how much fun it would be to do a race in New Orleans, and all the food I could eat after the race.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh yeah, the food will be delicious! I'm looking forward to that.

      Delete
  23. I love the idea of a hat from a race instead of a t-shirt. And yay R.R New Orleans! I look forward to hearing what you think of it because it's definitely on my list. I'm trying out RnR Vegas this year.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I got a fleece hat at a race once and I wear that thing when it's really cold. It's come in very handy. Vegas will be super fun!

      Delete
  24. That's a lot of miles for just getting back to running! Glad you're back to a running routine, and awesome that you're finding PT valuable. Cool that you signed up for that race! I've always wanted to do a R&R race.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I've added 2 miles to my long run each week. So far, no problems. My target half is in mid March. I need to try to run RnR as a training run. Yeah...

      Delete
  25. Oh so jelly! I'd LOVE to do RnRNOLA! That will be a freaking blast. Congrats on the win! The one 5k I do that gives trophies no longer does and for that I am bummed. So much fun when races are creative with their swag. Thanks for the linkup!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It seems like the perfect race to get back in the swing of things.

      Delete
  26. Dang it another RnRNO runner/blogger I am going to miss :(. I was suppose to run it but the knee is not having it :(...have fun for me!

    Cute trophy...that is cool.

    I am signed up to be a runner with Ainsley's Angels...I haven't done it yet, but may do the one soon.

    -Tamieka@fitballingrunningmom

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Sorry about your knee! I hate you won't be there. A lady beat me who was pushing an adult person in a stroller for Ainsley's Angels. She won the Masters Award. I was super impressed.

      Delete
  27. Sounds like an awesome week! Way to go on your 5K! Congrats on the AG award! Yay for signing up for your first RNR race! Have fun in New Orleans!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I am really looking forward to the weekend...and the race!

      Delete
  28. First, congrats on your award during your 5k! I also won a 5k award this weekend. I wasn't in peak condition, but it worked out. Second, I didn't realize RNR NOLA was coming up so fast! I hope you have a great time. The RNR races sound fun, but I've never been. Finally, to answer your other question: I did not have a normal training week... but I'm back from vacation and ready to get back to it! Have a good week!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Sometimes the awards come when we aren't in peak condition. Like you said, it works out and I'm always appreciative. I have a difficult time transition from vacation back into a normal routine!

      Delete
  29. I agree, PT was the best decision I ever made. I'm glad it's helping you!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I was not aware how strenuous it would be. LOL.

      Delete
  30. Ooh, I'm excited for you for New Orleans! I've never done the RNR race there, but I enjoyed doing a triathlon there and seeing the city!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I'm excited too. It's been a long time since we've visited.

      Delete
  31. I love Rock n Roll events. I think you'll enjoy it. I also love New Orleans so I fully support your decision. Good job with your physical therapy. Sounds like it's working. Keep doing what they tell you. This past weekend I did an event but it was a ride not a race. Fun though - yes. Normal Week? Is there such a thing?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Finally, someone said what I always think...is there such a thing as normal? This will be my first RnR event. I expect great things!

      Delete
  32. 57 degrees is perfect running weather! And you will LOVE RnR NOLA! Jealous but excited for you!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes, I lucked out this weekend with the weather. I'm excited to go to NOLA.

      Delete
  33. I've heard great things about the New Orleans RNR half. You'll have a blast!

    ReplyDelete
  34. First, congrats on your race last weekend. Love the trophy, you are just awesome!
    I ran the marathon in the RnR New Orleans back in 2012, and it was a pretty good race, enjoyed getting around through the different area and districts along the course. Good luck in it, wow you really are stacking up an impressive number of half marathons!!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Especially as we get older, placing in a race is sometimes just a matter of participation! LOL. I look forward to the RnR course. I hope to get a lot of sightseeing during the run.

      Delete
  35. Nice job. I'm so happy to hear you're feeling strong and fast again. Every little bit counts! #runstrong xxoo

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I need to remember baby steps eventually add up to a big ol' trek across the room.

      Delete
  36. OMG, you look SO ADORABLE in that race picture with Jenny! Love the green sparkly skirt and the rainbow arm warmers! I am SO THRILLED to hear that you are feeling good again. HUGE CONGRATULATIONS!!! So excited that you are running RNR NOLA, too. That is going to be an AMAZING race and I can't wait to hear about your experience!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks. I felt the day just needed a little sparkle. I'm looking forward to this weekend.

      Delete
  37. love your race outfit! and looks like you had a great week!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Those Sparkle Athletic skirts are great for a little pop of color.

      Delete
  38. great week for you and it looks like the PT is paying off! You two will have a blast in New Orleans! #jealous Nice job on the 5k too! I like the hat, great idea!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I'm so glad I decided to got with PT. I'm looking forward to this weekend. Ready or not...

      Delete
  39. I love when races have something other than a shirt. My husband and I have embroidered fleece blankets from a half we did back in 2014. Unfortunately, I think a lot of races shy away from not having the shirt because of the backlash they often get from race participants.

    Congrats on a solid 5K and a successful long run! I totally would have gone home and hit the Register button on Rock N Roll, too.

    And you are not kidding on the physical therapy being tough. I had to have knee surgery after tearing a ligament and the cartilage in my knee when I was in high school. The physical therapy afterwards was so hard, and I was in really good shape back then.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I would really appreciate a blanket or beach towel instead of the T-shirt. I think PT is harder on knee patients than anyone else. I've seen big grown men cry over it.

      Delete
  40. Congrats on your award at the CCAP 5K! I do that one every year and hated to miss it. Looks like a solid week of running. I'm so far behind on my goal of 1200 miles for the year due to sickness, but I'm feeling much better now. I'm hoping to get back on track. That's so cool that you signed up for NOLA on a whim. That was my first half marathon. I hope to go back someday. Have a great race! I look forward to reading all about it!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I'm usually not in town for CCAP. I really enjoyed the course. None of the hills were too steep or too long. They lived up to their gently rolling description. I'm glad to hear you are feeling better. Are you running Montgomery or Centerpoint?

      Delete
  41. Woohoo! Congrats on the 5K!! Your splits were awesome... and 37 Half marathons!! I'm IMPRESSED!!!

    ReplyDelete
  42. Thank you. They were all accomplished one step at a time.

    ReplyDelete

I enjoy reading your comments. Thanks for taking the time to leave one!