Well, I'm back with more to share. We're in the middle of winter and we feel like hibernating, but I think this winter has been just the opposite for me. It's possible to mix a swim, run and/or cycling outside most days, with a sprinkling of yoga added. And you've got a recipe for good health during a cold snap.
A couple weeks ago, I got a chance to run from Bodega Bay to my house, which amounted to over 20 miles. I had to do a long training run to prep for the marathon I did, so there was a chance to run long in new territory, without getting bored from an old loop. I got a small glimpse to feel what Forrest Gump did when he ran across America! LOL...Anyways, it was like an adventure, and look forward to more of it.
Yesterday, I completed my second marathon in Napa. About 2400 people ran from Calistoga to Napa via Silverado Trail. The day started out with lots of rain as we drove up to the start. Then as the morning nervously progressed, the rain was letting up a bit, thank goodness. By the time the race started at 7:00 am, it was just a drizzle. Many of the runners had garbage bags on to keep somewhat dry before running 26 miles. Gun goes off and we head south to Napa on pavement in rain that's off and on. All in all, it was great weather to run in, wasn't too cold, like the 30' and 40's that have been in the past.
The first 18-19 miles were good, then after the 20th mile come and went, my quads started to rebel, every step, every knee lift required focus and determination to stamp out the pain that I was really feeling. Made it thru 21, 22, and barely 23rd mile. Then 24 came, and walking felt better but it would take longer! So I tried to run, then walk faster, made it thru that one, then 25 came, 2 more miles to go. Walk, run, walk faster thru 25, and same for 26, the last 1/2 mile, I tried to run as fast as I could, my grandmother probably could have beat me in the last 1/4 mile! It kept crossing my mind, what the heck am I doing out here?!! But did it, and proud of myself. What's really funny, is that the race headquarters is the site where my husband and I had our wedding reception, and the finish line was where I graduated from high school, Vintage HS. So Napa is where I grew up and it was fun to be back there for the weekend.
So after I happily crossed, kind of in a coma, I found my hubby, Steve and we slowly walked to the cafeteria to get some real food, soup, bread, fruit and water, to recover and talk about what I did (and didn't do!). The legs were very painful, sitting down and getting up were the hardest things to do, and the easiest things we take for granted. I know it will get better, but for now, I will complain all that I can and accept all the help that I can at home. Here's to more adventures and getting out. I look forward to cycling now and getting ready for the Wine Country Century in May, a 100 mile ride. Then we'll see what happens from there....in the mean time, keep active because I think spring is going to come and come quickly, so be ready!! Happy adventures....
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