tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33938320544325485402024-03-05T14:43:34.599-06:00Holly Runs Goofy!Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16011988671917965206noreply@blogger.comBlogger34125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3393832054432548540.post-83672105612294170782010-01-25T15:37:00.006-06:002010-01-25T17:30:05.875-06:00I did it!!!I am officially Goofy!!! I successfully completed the Goofy Challenge (well actually the unofficial Dopey Challenge) at Walt Disney World on January 8th, 9th and 10th.
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<br />If you want to avoid reading my detailed report you can see the video version here:
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<br />Now for the detail!
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<br />We went to the Expo on Thursday right when they opened because I was paranoid that the merchandise would be all gone. I wanted my Goofy swag!! I went and got my bibs for Goofy and Dave and mine's bib for the 5k. Dave went searching for the limited edition pins. He was successful and I met him in the Disney merchandise area. Holy Crowded!!! I purchased a ridiculous amount but hey when am I going to do this again right? (no laughing!) The rest of the Expo was also crowded but I still managed to buy a race number belt and a pair of Riders slip ons. Both purchases are awesome!
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<br />The 5k on Friday was the warmup for me and the big race for Dave. Dave has done two 5ks in our town but this was his first big one. He says he wasn't nervous but I think he was. I know he was cold . I made him wear a trash bag and he was thankful for the warmth it provided. The race was themed for the movie "Up". The characters were there at the start. The corrals were very crowded and we couldn't even get in them so we had to wait for the start. There were fireworks and we were off. The race went through the parking lot of Epcot for the first mile and then the rest was through World Showcase and Future World. Dave and I pretty much stayed together and enjoyed the race together. It was a lot of fun and I would do it again. I'm proud of you Dave!
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<br />The half marathon was the next day and I tried to get to bed early on Friday. It was tough to get to sleep but I knew that 2:30 wake up call would be coming. I got up and got on as many clothes as possible as it was in the twenties and the forecast was for snow, sleet and rain! Lovely. I got on the monorail and got over to the staging area at about 4. I was able to meet my team members from my Team All Ears group and it was great to see them. I was very impressed that Tacey and Melanie showed up to encourage us even though they weren't running that day. It meant so much!
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<br />Before I knew it it was time to head to the corrals. It's a long walk and it was snowing. I couldn't believe it was snowing in Orlando! I got separated from my team at this point and I was on my own. I found my corral and started peeling of some layers, but kept most on as it was still so cold. The fireworks went off and we started making our way to the start line.
<br />The first few miles I felt kind of stiff as it was so cold but I soon warmed up. The run up World Drive to the Magic Kingdom was long and it sleeted during this portion. I was cold. Then you get to the Magic Kingdom and all is forgotten. I entered Main Street and got teary. I couldn't believe that after all of those training runs I was finally here!! I saw Dave and he got some pictures. I ran through the Castle!! Unbelievable!!! It was great to run through Tomorrowland, Fantasy Land, Liberty Square and Frontierland. I stopped for a few pictures it was great. We leave the Magic Kingdom and run along the road that the Grand Floridian is on and the Polynesian. Pretty quickly we get to World Drive again and are heading back to Epcot. I'm feeling great and taking it nice and easy. I don't want to push it but I'm freezing and would like to be done. But I hold back since I have a full marathon to do tomorrow.
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<br />We go over and around the overpass to get closer to Epcot and who do I see but Tacey and the Colorado sisters in the median of the highway cheering their heads off. It was an unbelievable lift and it makes all the difference. I see Dave again at mile 12 and tell him that I'm having fun!! A quick trip around future world and we are at the finish! I see Dave in the stands and smile for the camera! I get my Donald Medal and my cape of awesomeness which was much needed today. I find Dave after I exit and we try and get back to the hotel as quickly as possible. I was freezing on the monorail. I still got in the ice bath to aid my recovery and felt pretty good after a warm shower.
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<br />Here is a half marathon video recap:
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<br />We then headed over to the Magic Kingdom to have a Team All Ears meet. It was awesome to meet everyone and share our stories of the morning. Our captains Mike Scopa and Michelle Scribner-Maclean were awesome and so supportive throughout the whole training. Deb Wills is one amazing person and it is my honor to have met her. Our team has raised over $23,000 for breast cancer research. I was honored to find out that I was the top fundraiser for our team with over $5000. I got some really cool gifts for that as well. Thank you Deb!!
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<br />After the meet we were meeting some old friends for dinner at Tony's Town Square. We had a great time but soon it was time for me to get to bed as I had to get up at 2:30 again!
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<br />I was exhausted and had no trouble falling asleep. I woke up and did the same thing again. I put on a ton of clothes and got on the monorail. This time though I headed to the Race Retreat. I splurged for this treat for the marathon. I'm glad I did as it was colder than yesterday. I was on my own today as I never ran into any team members before the race. I headed to the corrals and I was much more nervous today. I was so afraid of not finishing this. So many people knew I was doing this and I didn't want to let them down or myself! The fireworks went off all around me and again I made my way to the starting line. I felt good right away. We entered Epcot in the beginning and that booming future world music really got to me. I was so pumped up. I did have an issue of not feeling well around mile 3. I realized I was warm and unzipped my coat and tossed my hand warmers. I felt better and that was the end of feeling bad for the race. We ran back up toward Magic Kingdom again and ran through the TTC. The crowd was awesome there today. It was a big boost. Again back in the Magic Kingdom and again tears! I saw Dave again and he told me to look for him when I came out of the castle. I got to the castle and there were trumpeters heralding our arrival on top of the entrance. They played the Rocky theme! How cool!! I misheard Dave and didn't look the right way for the picture. Sorry Hon!!! We leave the Magic Kingdom and start the long boring stretch to the Animal Kingdom.
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<br />But I had a cheerleader to cheer me on. I'm running by the Poly and I hear someone yell "Holly Beck" I'm like who in the heck would be yelling my maiden name?? It was Jorge from my team!! Thanks so much Jorge it was awesome to see and hear you!! BOOM BOOM POW!!!! I'm still feeling great and get to the Animal Kingdom with no problems. I avoided falling at the water stops. They kept saying watch out for the ice. How can this be Florida??? The Animal Kingdom was fun as the park was open and it was fun to see the guests waiting for Everest. After Animal Kingdom its another long stretch to get to the Studios. I was still feeling great and couldn't believe that I wasn't hitting the wall like in previous marathons. Thank you Hammer Nutrition. Their products kept me properly fueled the entire race. I saw Brad and Julie from the team on this stretch and we cheered each other on. The Studios was great as I knew we were really getting close now. Then the run along the river between the Studios and the Boardwalk. The Breathless was out there doing tricks and it was great to watch. I saw Barrie from my team at the Boardwalk and it was another needed boost. Thanks Barrie!!
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<br />Now a quick run along the Yacht Club and someone yells to me "You Did It!! Celebrate!!" I lost it with that and was so happy. I entered Epcot and tried to enjoy the last bit as I ran around World Showcase. I'm still feeling great!! I see our Team All Ears sign right by Spaceship Earth and Deb and Amanda are there. I scream like a crazy person and give them a huge hug. Thanks so much for standing there in the cold! I run into the finish and miss Dave in the stands. I high five Mickey and smile big!!
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<br />I get my Mickey Medal and another cape of awesomeness!!! I then go get my Goofy Medal. It was great because the person who gave me the medal is my friend Lydia who I haven't seen in 10 years!! It was so special to get that medal from someone I know. I exit and find Dave and say "Can you believe it?" We hug and I cry again. I did the Goofy and ended up with a 24 minute marathon Personal Best. Final time 5:42:05. AMAZING!!!
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<br />We make our way back to the hotel and I get in one more ice bath. We head to Epcot to celebrate until the cold gets the better of us.
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<br />What a weekend.
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<br />Here's the marathon recap (warning you may need the tissues at the end!)
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<br />Thanks so much for all of the support from everyone. I couldn't have done it without all of you. Especially to my husband Dave. You are the best personal trainer, support system, videographer, photographer and of course, husband a person could have. I could never get through this without you. I love you!!!
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<br />Stay tuned for my next adventure.
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<br />For now,
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<br />Adding to the Adventure Book!!!Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16011988671917965206noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3393832054432548540.post-89485106257346130532009-12-31T13:30:00.002-06:002009-12-31T13:34:13.330-06:00Taper time!I am officially in the taper and madness has begun. I am in a bubble like John Travolta. If you sneeze don't be offended if I run in the other direction. I am officially neurotic. I walk on the roads and sidewalks with a shuffle to avoid rolling an ankle. It's crazy!<br /><br />I finished my training off in PA and NY. Home of snow and hills. PA got 16 inches of snow and I ran through it. Try going up steep hills through a few inches of snow. Quite the workout when you are used to the flat land of Illinois. I was supposed to do 10 and 20 back to back, but the snow and hills caused me to do 7 and 15.25. I called it good because I was freaking exhausted. More tired than any other training run all year even the previous 10 and 20 I did a few weeks before. I feel ready for the Goofy and really can't wait to get there. <br /><br />For now,<br /><br />Adding to the Adventure Book!Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16011988671917965206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3393832054432548540.post-7249148832705371422009-12-28T17:51:00.001-06:002009-12-28T17:51:34.201-06:009 more days until we leave for Disney and The Goofy Challenge!Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16011988671917965206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3393832054432548540.post-40315370322641437782009-12-18T09:17:00.002-06:002009-12-18T09:22:42.446-06:00Cold weather training stinks!I made it through my first 10 mile and 20 mile back to back runs. I did the 10 mile outside and got frostbite. I was pretty miserable. The next day was supposed to be even colder so I decided to do it on the treadmill. 20 miles. Oh my. I was on the treadmill for 4 and a half hours! That is just not right! I actually felt fine physically. I could have gone longer. Mentally it was draining. The weather has been horrible. I haven't been outside since the 10 miler. All my training has been on the dreadmill.<br /><br />Now we are leaving town again to head east to visit our families for Christmas. I have my last big back to back this weekend. Another 10 miler and 20 miler. It is much hillier in PA and NY so I'm a bit nervous. Also a big snowstorm is coming. I don't have a treadmill there so this could be interesting!<br /><br />I can't believe it's only three weeks until the races. It is so close now. I can't wait.<br /><br />For now,<br /><br />Adding to the Adventure Book!Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16011988671917965206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3393832054432548540.post-35817014221422380662009-12-03T16:49:00.003-06:002009-12-03T16:56:36.124-06:00The final push!We are back from vacation. We had a great time in Jamaica. The weather was perfect for once. We usually have nothing but clouds and rain, but had beautiful sunny days every day. I stuck with my running and I have to say I am quite proud of myself. I got up at 5:30 on five mornings! I ran two 10 milers and three 5 milers. It was so hard to get out of bed after being up too late the night before. But my plan worked. I got up and got it done and then had a great big breakfast guilt free and would nap on the beach. It can be done. Not my favorite thing but I did it!<br /><br />Now it's time for the real mileage. This weekend I have my first of two 10-20 back to back runs. I'm pretty nervous. Due to vacation, even though I ran quite a bit I still feel like I lost some fitness. I'm sure it will be fine, but I'll be glad to get through this weekend. It is only going to be 20 degrees both mornings this weekend. So not looking forward to that. <br /><br />I really can't wait to get to Disney and meet all of my Team All Ears teammates. My fundraising is going well. I have very generous friends and family and I am very thankful!!! <br /><br />For now,<br /><br />Adding to the Adventure Book!Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16011988671917965206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3393832054432548540.post-65889242690583645322009-11-17T20:00:00.002-06:002009-11-17T20:04:59.019-06:00Ready for a vacationI can't believe we are at only 8 weeks to go! Time is really flying now. My legs are tired. I've been putting in some big miles and I'm still doing well. My pace is faster than when I trained for the other marathons so I'm hopeful that the races will go smoothly. We are heading to Jamaica on Saturday for a week and yes I am packing the running shoes. I have never run on vacation before so this is going to be tough. I built in two extra weeks into my training to compensate for this, but still plan a few 10 mile runs and some 5 mile mid week runs. I don't want to blow all of this training. I will get up early and then take a nap on the warm beach! When we get back it will almost be December. I really can't believe it!<br /><br />For now,<br /><br />Adding to the Adventure Book!Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16011988671917965206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3393832054432548540.post-38927475812236391062009-11-04T16:50:00.002-06:002009-11-04T16:52:55.975-06:00Training continues!We are now just 9 weeks and a few days away. It is really going fast now. Training is really ramping up and I'm getting tired. I definitely need more sleep. I fell asleep last night at 8! I did an 8 mile on Saturday and 17 mile on Sunday. That was a big back to back to get me ready. It was a very chilly weekend and I was cold on the long one on Sunday. It's supposed to warm up this weekend and I'm looking forward to it. Maybe I can run in the shorts again? <br /><br />For now,<br /><br />Adding to the Adventure Book!!!Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16011988671917965206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3393832054432548540.post-54987722811597503882009-10-22T16:55:00.007-05:002009-10-22T21:31:02.739-05:00Race for the Taste Report<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Hi all,<div><br /></div><div>Success!</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkWRGJMMjJ41H4zJKy-Vt6NWpjYvj8so4D91Nj4IpMGr6GCmlNkp5NAOzq8fRPVsmrbDjkCcerNw0QGa1uXiC4-vUaGQKX9zz-aDLm7KcGz2wre-r_JGxqhJQW0a6AU8fPO6zOHo6LeEk/s200/finishracetaste.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5395551794400303170" /></div><div><br /></div><div>We are back from Disney once again and had a great time as usual. We spent Friday in the Magic Kingdom and then went to the Halloween party that night. A very long day. Here's a glimpse at what we did.</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" white-space: pre; font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:-webkit-xxx-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:10px;"><object width="435" height="270"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/7K6c2mI86UY&hl=en&fs=1&color1=0x234900&color2=0x4e9e00&border=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/7K6c2mI86UY&hl=en&fs=1&color1=0x234900&color2=0x4e9e00&border=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="435" height="270"></embed></object></span><object width="580" height="360"></object></span></div><div><br /></div><div>Saturday we hit the Studios in the morning and did all the big ones. Toy Story, Tower of Terror and Rock and Roller Coaster. We then went over to the Wide World of Sports Complex to pick up my race packet. Then it was off to the Food and Wine Festival for the rest of the day finishing up with Illuminations. Then back to the All Star for bed and what I called the "running of the children" . I tried to go to bed early but, the kids just kept running by the door, ugh!</div><div><br /></div><div>Sunday morning came early-4:30 and we got ready to catch the bus to the start. I met Gordon from the Running to Disney podcast and it was great to meet him. I also met my fellow Team All Ears member Brad. Before we knew it, the start of the race was upon us.</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" white-space: pre; font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:10px;"><object width="435" height="270"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/KLIH0mE3OH0&hl=en&fs=1&color1=0x234900&color2=0x4e9e00&border=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/KLIH0mE3OH0&hl=en&fs=1&color1=0x234900&color2=0x4e9e00&border=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="435" height="270"></embed></object></span></div><div><br /></div><div>The race was fun. It was very hot and humid though. Also very crowded in spots so I had to slow down my pace. It was good practice for Goofy because the end of the marathon and the half marathon follow this same course. It was fun to run around an empty World Showcase.</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:85%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" white-space: pre;font-size:10px;"><object width="435" height="270"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/LDn6oFQXyy4&hl=en&fs=1&color1=0x234900&color2=0x4e9e00&border=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/LDn6oFQXyy4&hl=en&fs=1&color1=0x234900&color2=0x4e9e00&border=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="435" height="270"></embed></object></span></span></div><div>After the finish I met up with fellow Team All Ears member Tracy and Brad again. It was great to meet everyone. We got our free samples and then headed out to get some much needed showers. </div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" white-space: pre; font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:10px;"><object width="435" height="270"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/jSoH9JS6mnQ&hl=en&fs=1&color1=0x234900&color2=0x4e9e00&border=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/jSoH9JS6mnQ&hl=en&fs=1&color1=0x234900&color2=0x4e9e00&border=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="435" height="270"></embed></object></span></div><div><br /></div><div>The afternoon was spent in Epcot for more Food and Wine. The winner for us was the Tenderloin from South Africa. Yummy! I also loved the Frozen Mojito. We then headed over the Magic Kingdom to catch Wishes and then back to the resort so we could get to bed early for our early flight home.</div><div><br /></div><div>It was a great trip and I can't wait to go back in January. My training is going really well. Knock on wood!!! I did a 15 miler on Sunday after a 7 miler on Saturday and my pace was really good. I felt great. </div><div><br /></div><div>That's all for now.</div><div><br /></div><div>Adding to the Adventure Book!!!</div>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16011988671917965206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3393832054432548540.post-4036107971384614862009-09-22T16:51:00.002-05:002009-09-22T16:58:17.269-05:00Training going well.It's been a crazy couple of weeks in the Aulen household. Dave and I did the Fox Lake 5k on Saturday 9/12. Dave did great and finished under his required pace for the Disney 5k. He is doing great in the training and I am very proud of him! I finished in a good time as well and felt pretty good. Once again I started out way too fast. 5k's are just not my race I think. Everyone starts out sprinting and I get caught up in that. <div><br /></div><div>This weekend I did a 6 mile run on Saturday and then an 11 mile run on Sunday. I felt great for both. I hope the training continues like this, but I know it won't be so smooth all the time.</div><div><br /></div><div>We are getting ready for Disney in just 2 weeks and 2 days! I think we will be utterly spent by the end of the three days. We are planning on spending the entire day at the Magic Kingdom on Friday including the Not So Scary Party. Saturday going to the Studios, pick up my race packet and head over to Epcot to sample all of the yummy food and wine! Sunday up very early for the race and then back to Epcot for more food and wine. I am tired just thinking about it! </div><div><br /></div><div>That's all for now,</div><div>Adding to the Adventure Book!!!</div>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16011988671917965206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3393832054432548540.post-33720339856568260152009-09-09T16:46:00.003-05:002009-09-09T17:11:50.732-05:00Race for the Taste Here I Come!I'm in week 3 of Goofy training and things are going well. I'm feeling good so far, but there is a long way to go. We had an exciting week last week as we decided to book a last minute trip to Disney World so I can run the last Race for the Taste 10k. I haven't done it before and heck I want that cool medal. Not to mention that we can now go to the Food and Wine festival. Dave is very happy about that! We may go to the Not so Scary Halloween Party as well. It is going to be a very short trip. 3 days in the parks. Pure exhaustion I'm sure!!! <div><br /></div><div>Dave made an awesome music video of the highlights of our May trip. Take a look:</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dx2tWTE8zCD8HbLihVnBla-NZhHQEAhx-aKlGBIAHAg44JsylQ4vbCjiIUsN7BXlvWDZSZnXSlL2xtR9yYiIw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Pretty Cool, huh? </div><div><br /></div><div>For now,</div><div><br /></div><div>Adding to the Adventure Book!</div>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16011988671917965206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3393832054432548540.post-23023238813658197952009-08-25T17:09:00.002-05:002009-08-25T17:14:04.098-05:00Let the training begin!Week 1 of Goofy training has begun! This is the first week of the training and I feel more prepared for a training cycle than I ever have before. I put in a lot of miles since May and the strength training I have been doing since December is definitely helping. I also have been working my core. My friend Liz is a personal trainer and she has been kicking my butt (core). I had a great 10 mile run on Sunday, one of those nice and easy runs. It felt great. I did a 5k on the 9th and did it in 34:59. It was very hot and humid that day so I'm happy with that time. I hope the next 20 weeks of training fly by, but I know I'll have plenty of rough patches. Let's hope they are few and far between!<div><br /></div><div>For now,</div><div>Adding to the Adventure Book!</div>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16011988671917965206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3393832054432548540.post-62173549655241374692009-08-11T18:57:00.013-05:002009-08-11T19:53:42.024-05:00Some more Videos and Photos from the RNR Half<div>Here are some more videos from the Half.</div><div><br /></div><div>The start:</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzHrk7djac0UD7v-4ofpz6zi_9BkvO-XJK5ZqZMd0wAySlxmrohe-iaWMW-6ecXTSxMOofZfP84A7jqIcTToA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><div>Video Between Miles 4 and 5:</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwfAC2LQxYQkYeZ8v6ueISNUz4bzorzRknjFPEBeldtwjgwNaqoi_klavN_FRn2dHwAU4uRqPHLKWnQxGA5TA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><div><br /></div><div>Dave's review of the PF Changs VIP Area:<div><br /></div><div><br /></div><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzJ68bjNBB-XTcGHdpHqd_GwuUZ2Okt3EG4bc4ddWym_HTeHP4kHWWBVoMuH_FFVFzNN6dlebLONmSKqVELMQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 206px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicAnk0BLtXllgTGIo2qa0JxRT68ILjAhRlSrNDR281z6lSLOGEk3NxSunrG3AEjB170CWYPqNnrW-j7ADXPhHSuqd7bpM1eKnxtthwnOKncmotWMjIr0bTULovPZT0dNJI5VUnY4od32s/s320/DSC09234.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368872614649670418" /></div><div><br /></div><div><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3KVrlcWRLOMmP6jLQWsV3OSCYQQ0PqMpS1LJsSE6lj1Rjk1ds5ZV4lQPNb-KGYj8k3rA5sF92aMdAaZCsseqszaRxVmb4kycy8wIxd2uqXw0niWeoH2uMrrVVMVzL6PFatxcQBBOE6l8/s320/DSC09140.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368871394470473586" /><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIQmXPeGSg7fSeN3GaQOXo6GNd5Ng45XHZS2tK-u-9ANgl-QSFRW2wXdxgE3EAfoAz2PgyO2KZx2aNg7biDPDHOMBVw9mKGhQ_U9SQusFYcLI4LWMK6nA2Ca1EzBxrCeGLkW64R2VXpD0/s320/DSC09150.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368871714205485106" /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /><div><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY_HFEcLvZuvDBxXEDcBD8HKSra6AS5nW37LUVFYnpZgiqVY-GUzAF9shSRcOzGIfY5AZpYsVKsydeCgn4yiOxBgt0_fS0CYHlPlmRzfjLmUAkiPHhvO1RwCAoQFwowVvJ8ZSNUSiNi3s/s320/DSC09165.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368872014479066226" /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGASXnMobyv2XMD_C4AexRtHK4epkgEWw5vIm559z10O7vhtJ-KZKD-UC_0T9HzN6bfUuiep4D3HUlafuQ0P8xT3znj8tqqtzEcl3sefX-BpYCE-VYx5Dn7FfJGHAb_B1hQViBMNUIgFk/s320/DSC09176.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368872607327548626" /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>That's it for now. Thanks to Dave for taking some great pictures and video. I appreciate you following me around the city, even if you did stop for Starbucks and almost missed me. Love you!</div><div><br /></div><div>Adding to the Adventure Book!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div></div></div>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16011988671917965206noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3393832054432548540.post-3942473932107733822009-08-11T16:33:00.008-05:002009-08-11T17:41:48.616-05:00Rock and Roll Chicago Half Marathon Race ReportI survived the Rock and Roll Chicago Half Marathon on August 2nd and I'll leave it until the end to let you know if I PR'd or not. We got down to Chicago Saturday morning and headed right to the Expo. Just as we got there they were announcing that Ryan Hall would be speaking in 5 minutes. I said to Dave, "Ryan Hall, way cool, we have to go" Dave said "Who is Ryan Hall?" We hightailed it over there and grabbed a seat. John "The Penguin" Bingham was there introducing him. Celebrity sightings everywhere! Ryan gave a great 30 minute talk about preparing for the race, pre race jitters, going out too fast, nutrition, etc. It's funny he was talking about 4:28 miles!! I can only imagine. After that we did a bit of shopping and then headed to the hotel to check in. Had an early dinner of my traditional spaghetti and meatballs and then off to bed early.<div><br /></div><div>Up early and walked over to the starting area. Here is what I was thinking at this point:</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxGGjJj8l33eNd0Dly6XDrS5WCSz9OZ5L-jCi5mfaYg4LjRD_xyuM0OpJRQUqVWgcWYVLRtswGdawDR-Y__' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><div><br /></div><div>Then Dave left me and went to start getting in position to get some pictures. I went and found my corral and began the long wait. It was a wave start so I had a 30 minute wait until it was my time to go. We were off and I of course start off too fast. My Garmin was messed up from the buildings so I couldn't tell what my pace was. I hit the first mile at about 11:00. Then the second one about 12:00, a bit better. Dave saw me here, but almost missed me. Here is the funniest portion of the race, caught on tape:</div><div><br /></div><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxRQHO4mCL5ctJykkYd3FjnPWVEEU-__3dJhCzLiphvsmuxbTQesra7pFHkyKkwvTmQl1XGH6Lrmdd0ag5yEg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><div><br /></div><div>I felt good through out the whole race. It was crowded once we left downtown and hit the lakefront trails. I was concentrating on keeping track of my mile splits in my head. I was trying to keep under 12:30 miles. So what was Dave doing while I was running. Well we know he hit up a Starbucks, but what else:</div><div> </div><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzl9amHorSmiNj9_r_uPBCSoUyMslw6o8P8hGVrYr5pOXBurRhRgU4IXqfGTsrpgAoFl4EOsUdGhUm0ppRchg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><div><br /></div><div>Right about mile 12 was when I started to feel it. I dug in and kept pushing and before I knew it I was at the finish line. I crossed the line at 2:42:57. A 4 minute PR! Woo Hoo! I was tired and hot, but was immediately handed an ice cold wet towel. Best thing ever. I got my cool medal. Some water and a popsicle-what a great idea. I found Dave and he taped this. I was still winded:</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxR9Ft2BJDUhACImSqsCBwBapMIyDuZuqRyeDK8MIbuSGNhOxj1FKw3ooVWq4VUjQbLFKVSENjkRvRMJI6BsQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>It was a great race. I'll post some more videos and pictures in the next post.</div><div><br /></div><div>So for now,</div><div>Adding to the Adventure Book</div>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16011988671917965206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3393832054432548540.post-26501710771670326442009-08-01T18:26:00.001-05:002009-08-01T18:26:43.504-05:00Ryan Hall<div style="text-align: center"><a href="http://media.shozu.com/cache/portal/media/51d1cc1/33554502"><img src="http://media.shozu.com/cache/portal/media/51d1cc1/33554502_blog" /></a></div><br/>Speaking at Chicago RnR Half Marathon expo<p align="right" ><a href="http://www.shozu.com/portal/?utm_source=upload&utm_medium=graphic&utm_campaign=upload_graphic/" target="_blank" ><img src="http://www.shozu.com/resources/messages/logo_blog.gif" alt="Posted by ShoZu" border="0" /></a></p>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16011988671917965206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3393832054432548540.post-75944449825296681752009-07-31T17:07:00.003-05:002009-07-31T17:10:12.499-05:00Rock and Roll Half here I come!It's been awhile. I've been battling a sinus/ear infection and am finally starting to feel better. Just in the nick of time too. The Chicago Rock and Roll half is this Sunday. We are heading down to Chicago tomorrow and so far the weather looks perfect for the race. I'm hoping for a PR. My previous best is 2:46:59. Not sure if that will happen or not. I did a 12 miler on Sunday and it was tough. I'm going to go out and have fun and see what happens. Check back here for next week for some pictures and video from the event. <div><br /></div><div>For now,</div><div>Adding to the Adventure Book!</div>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16011988671917965206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3393832054432548540.post-16962872334879492612009-07-13T17:09:00.017-05:002009-07-14T06:35:26.977-05:00My SignoffWell folks we have a winner for my signoff. Remember when I was looking for an idea to end all of my blog entries. Dave came up with a great one. It is inspired by the movie "Up". For those that have seen the movie you will understand it immediately. For those that haven't, let me fill you in. Spoilers Ahead!!!!<div><br /></div><div>Dave and I saw Up when it first came out. The movie had a big effect on both of us. We both were crying throughout the movie and still get misty eyed thinking about it even a month afterwards. The movie is about a couple, Carl and Ellie. Within the first 10 minutes we see how Carl and Ellie meet as young children, fall in love, get married and then ultimately Ellie passes away. What got to Dave and I was that Carl and Ellie reminded us of our own relationship. They had a jar that they put their spare change in to save for a big trip. Dave and I have a large Campbells Soup tin that we throw our change in to buy something "fun". It's just Carl and Ellie in the movie, no kids. Same for us. The big thing is that Carl and Ellie never got to take the dream trip that they always looked forward to. Dave and I are lucky and we have already taken many dream trips. The point of the movie is that you don't have to take a dream trip that life is a big adventure by itself. Ellie created an "Adventure Book" that she put in everything they did and everything they wanted to do in the future. I like to think that Dave and I have been creating our "Adventure Book" and we are constantly adding to our own book. So I will have my sign off be: Adding to the Adventure Book! I hope you all will continue to follow along.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 250px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6y750ljTnZ2A1DcNT5OHZ_ooRn31I33QDyYpqJmlQHsEmUOjvwn1e7C4o8cgQphOVjW3pzGLJmWQOOJf0jDg-13SZbjpiUgTWVzA8Xoj5kNQkQ5uiP8rzviCI-sPinsDIS2BWqAg7_68/s320/adventure-book1.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358081139237062050" /></div><div>So for now,</div><div><br /></div><div>Adding to the Adventure Book!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16011988671917965206noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3393832054432548540.post-29951730404320944802009-07-06T16:54:00.002-05:002009-07-06T17:02:50.085-05:00A 5k on the 4thHad a busy 4th of July weekend. Spent Friday boating and having fun at Blarney Island. Then up early on the 4th for the Run for Freedom in Antioch. I talked some friends into coming with and Dave even walked it! Way to go everyone. I was pleased with my time: 34:34. Much faster than last years 38:00. I'm glad to know that I am getting fitter. Sunday was a 10 mile run on very dead legs. I muddled through it. I bonked toward the end, totally empty. Needed another gel or something on the run.<div><br /></div><div>Speaking of gels I've been very pleased with the Hammer Gels I ordered. I heard about them during an interview with the owner of Hammer on the Run to Disney Podcast. The guy had some great things to say and they made sense. These are the first gels I have been able to stomach and they work great. I had one about 10 minutes before my 5k and I'm sure that helped me improve my time. </div><div><br /></div><div>Spent the rest of the day yesterday just lounging around outside. A nice relaxing afternoon and evening. Dave made awesome ribs for dinner, his best yet! </div><div><br /></div><div>Less than 4 weeks until the Half! <br /></div>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16011988671917965206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3393832054432548540.post-68974318661172381242009-06-25T16:10:00.004-05:002009-06-25T16:13:53.111-05:00Summer is Here!Summer has finally arrived in Chicago and it is kicking my butt. 90s and high humidity. I'm not used to this. But I have been out there and getting my runs in. I'm feeling pretty good, my legs are a bit tired but I am really getting up in the mileage for me. This week I have a 9 miler on Sunday. It's supposed to be a bit cooler so that will help. Only 5 more weeks and 2 days until the Rock and Roll Half. I can't wait! I need a sign off tagline. Any ideas???Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16011988671917965206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3393832054432548540.post-67680991142275300652009-06-03T16:35:00.003-05:002009-06-03T16:39:48.911-05:00Outside, Yeah!I finally got outside to run on Sunday. 6 miles. It felt great. Allergies are still rough, but much better. Hopefully another week or two and they will be history! I am currently doing Hal Higdons Intermediate Program for a Half Marathon. I'm signed up for the Rock and Roll Chicago Half Marathon on August 2nd. I can't wait for it. Should be a fun one with all of the bands. The intermediate is getting me ready for the intermediate marathon training program I'm going to use for Goofy. I'm not used to running 5 days a week and this is tough. Running on both days of the weekend is difficult. I have to behave on Friday and Saturday nights now. Bummer!!! And no sleeping in at all on the weekend. Major bummer!!!!! But it will be worth it to get those three medals come January. Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16011988671917965206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3393832054432548540.post-70462248586760469342009-05-27T17:25:00.002-05:002009-05-27T17:31:02.876-05:00AwolSorry I've been AWOL! The Disney vacation was great. We did a lot but still managed to relax-yes at Disney we relaxed. We loved the Beach Club. It was great to walk right out of the International Gateway and be in your room in 5 minutes!! Definitely want to go back there. <div><br /></div><div>So I've been back in the thick of training. I signed up for the inaugural Rock and Roll Half Marathon in Chicago on August 2nd. Can't wait, should be pretty fun with all of the bands. Allergies still suck! Hope to get outside this weekend for a run. I'm so sick of the treadmill. Strength Training is going well too. </div><div><br /></div><div>I can't believe it's only 32 weeks until the Goofy Weekend!!!</div>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16011988671917965206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3393832054432548540.post-67533569413365966782009-05-05T16:47:00.002-05:002009-05-05T16:52:15.739-05:00Almost time for Disney!!Yes, it is almost time for Disney! Not the Goofy Disney. Just a regular old vacation. We leave Thursday night and we'll be there through the 17th! Can't wait. I'll try and do some blog posts while there and keep you updated.<div><br /></div><div>I've had some good runs lately. All inside due to allergies. I had a nice 7 mile run on Saturday. I joined Team Allears for the Goofy Challenge. Allears.net is a great resource for Disney if you are not familiar with the site you should definitely check it out. The founder, Deb Wills is a breast cancer survivor. Team Allears was formed to help everyone stay motivated with the training and also to raise money for breast cancer research. This should be a great motivator to help me get my runs in. I have a good idea to raise money and I'll post it after I get back from vacation. That's when the real training starts!!!</div>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16011988671917965206noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3393832054432548540.post-88764325670773105152009-04-27T17:58:00.002-05:002009-04-27T18:03:44.030-05:00Allergies, Sigh.I had a nice week of training last week. I was trying to decide if I would do the 10k on Sunday. The weather looked even worse than last week. Thunderstorms. Holly does not do Thunderstorms. I am terrified, like abnormally so. I actually do a crouch walk to the car if I get stuck out in one so I'll be lower to the ground. Ok you can stop laughing now. So I decided not to pre-register.<div><br /></div><div>I'm glad I didn't. Friday we had our first 80 degree day in 6 months! This was great but caused every single tree to start blooming. I have terrible spring allergies. Mainly eyes issues. We went out for dinner with friends Friday night and everyone wanted to eat outside. I knew that would be an issue but I went with it. By the end of dinner my eyes were a mess. I woke up on Sunday and they were swollen and glued shut. Yuck. I stayed in the house all weekend and am recovered for now. I didn't do a long run all weekend. Very bad! I'm afraid to step outside it's either going to be the trees or the lightning! Or both, what if lightning hit a tree? Crap.</div>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16011988671917965206noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3393832054432548540.post-38944077278469561082009-04-20T20:32:00.003-05:002009-04-20T20:43:40.560-05:00My First 10kI did it. I completed my first 10k! First a video preview of how I was feeling before the race:<div><br /></div><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwtwjtvUZoq3laAB2DCgXzgYO5aedpD-vU7PaRLNNW5wOv3qRkFyEeYyZ7vnz72DyB3q_Iy-pw7PWt6uw43_A' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><div><br /></div><div>My fears were well founded. I didn't finish last but I did finish next to last. No worries from me though. I'm very happy with my time. 1:14:01. 11:56 pace. Speedy for me! It was a miserable day with rain and wind coming right off of the lake. My legs were cold the whole race. There was one downside, one of the volunteers at the water station. The course was a two loop course so I got to pass by twice. He started off the second time by saying "Didn't I see you four times already?" then the best one " Can I call you a cab?" Dude!!!! At least I am out here running. I just laughed at him. I mean he is standing in the rain, but that was pretty uncalled for. I wasn't that far back from the end of the pack. </div><div><br /></div><div>The plus side of a small race that you finish at the end of? It's easy to spot your husband at the finish. He was the only one! Thanks for waiting in the cold Dave! Love you!</div><div><br /></div><div><div>I am sore today. The course was rolling and I think I beat my quads up on the down hill. I still forced myself to do a 3 mile run today to help loosen things up.</div></div><div><br /></div><div>So there is another one next Sunday. I may give it another try. Hopefully this will have more than 55 runners in it and I'll do better than next to last. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Stay tuned!!</div>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16011988671917965206noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3393832054432548540.post-17597660285877230732009-04-15T16:35:00.003-05:002009-04-15T16:41:46.575-05:00Where's the sun?I'm really getting sick of this weather. I am still pulling out the winter coat! Enough!!! Had a couple of nice runs so far this week. Skipped the strength training yesterday as I must have slept funny or something. I woke up with a stabbing pain by my shoulder. Thankfully that is gone today. I'll be back at it tomorrow with a run and strength training routine. <div><br /></div><div>Getting excited for my 10K on Sunday. I can't believe I haven't run a 10k ever!? Marathon-check, Half Marathon-check, 13k-check, 8k-check, 5k-check. 10k not so much! I'm planning another one next weekend as well. I'm a bit worried about finishing last as I'm afraid there won't be very many slower runners. But I love this saying: Dead last finish is better than did not finish which is better than did not start. Here's hoping for at least the dead last finish- HA!!!!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16011988671917965206noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3393832054432548540.post-60523456807286223932009-04-13T17:11:00.003-05:002009-04-13T17:14:58.482-05:00I must update more often.Ok, let's see if I can get in a better blogging groove. The weather here is still not great. Cold, rainy, typical Chicago in spring time weather. I'm dying to get outside. Hopefully Sunday will be good because I have a 10K race to do. <div><br /></div><div>I had a good week of training. I did 6 miles for my long run on Saturday. It feels good to get up in the mileage again. I was tired though. My legs were tired from climbing stairs. Stairs? Yep, stairs at an indoor waterpark. Dave and I went to Key Lime Cove in Gurnee, IL on Thursday night. We had a blast. The slides were pretty cool. We went up and down several times. My legs were screaming! It's tough on my feet to walk barefoot on concrete especially climbing stairs! The park was fun and we had a nice getaway. </div>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16011988671917965206noreply@blogger.com2