Thursday, December 29, 2011

Last Run In Deadhorse

Today was the last run I will do in Deadhorse for this month.  I leave Saturday morning but need to pack away the running clothes when I get off work in the morning.  Only did 4 miles, but it felt like a lot more.  I think I have treadmill burnout. Maybe that is only because I know that in a couple of days I will have some other choices.  I am so looking forward to running at the sports center or better yet, maybe even outdoors.  It's pretty cold at home right now, just barely above zero.  But at least there are places where it is possible to run.

Hoping for more help with my fundraising!

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

5 Miles Today

I've been a bit behind this week but finally did 5 miles today on the treadmill.  I've been having trouble sleeping then waking up too late.  Just 3 more work shifts and I will be back home.  Then I'm hoping to get in some much longer runs at the Sports Center.  Being off work will give me a lot more time for training.

I'm hoping to come up with some better fundraising ideas when I get home too.  I'm not making any progress there.

Saturday, December 24, 2011

100 Miles This Month

Little goals add up to bigger ones.  I finally hit 100 miles this month.  All on the treadmill of course, here at the Prudhoe Bay Hotel.  I just added another 5 miles.  It was really hot in there but it was far better than outside where it is now -31, Fahrenheit that is! I'm so thankful that we have really good exercise equipment up here because I don't know what I would do without it.  It's pretty close to impossible to run outdoors up here this time of year.  Narrow roads covered with ice and snow, with big trucks going by.  The sun is down all month so it is pretty dark too.  It's not only ridiculously cold out there, it is also dangerous because there are no provisions for pedestrians.  In the summer it is awesome though.  I'm looking forward to my stay up here in June.

It's Christmas Eve.  I miss being with my family.  I especially miss my mother who is no longer with us. This is our first Christmas without her. 
 
I'm going to call everyone I know and wish them a
Merry Christmas! 

Friday, December 23, 2011

10 Miles to Warm Up!

33 below today and no matter what I did I couldn't warm up.  I couldn't even sleep because I was so chilled just from being out there long enough to drive back from work.  But 10 miles on the treadmill worked very well.  Now I am all warmed up! 

I'm busy planning for marathons for 2012.  Yellowknife Marathon in August looks awesome, one week before the Anchorage Big Wild Life Marathon.  Hatcher Pass Marathon in July of course. Rock 'n' Roll Phoenix in January and the most important one, Rock 'n' Roll Madrid in April for Team In Training.

I still need to raise at least $3000 more to meet my fundraising minimum goal. Please click on the little running gal below to donate.

Thursday, December 22, 2011

30 Below Today

It really does feel like winter out there today.  So of course, I did my run indoors on the good old Prudhoe Bay Hotel treadmill.  Slept pretty late today so just had time for 5 miles.  I'm hoping to hit 100 miles this month by Christmas Day.  I will probably have to wait until I get home to get a really long run in.  There isn't quite enough time for a 20 miler when I have to work every night here in Deadhorse.

Rock 'n' Roll Phoenix will be my long run on January 15th though!

It's almost Christmas and I want Santa to bring the world a cure for cancer.
Help him by clicking on his image below!

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

Another 5 Miler

I had a really good run today.  Just 5 miles, but each mile, I increased my speed by .1 mph.  It's not that much but I did notice it.  I get a better workout and a more interesting workout when I make little challenges for myself.  It can be pretty difficult to make a workout on a treadmill interesting! But sometimes you just have to make do with what you have.  That's all I've got around here right now. It's 20 below zero out there right now.  I nearly froze just trekking across the street to put one of my Team In Training flyers on the bulletin board in the terminal.  I don't seem to have much luck with those flyers because none of the little tabs get torn off.  But I may as well give it a try.  I just haven't figured out a good way to fundraise here in Prudhoe Bay. I'm sure a more clever person could come up with something.  Perhaps I will. I think I'll pass on the idea of a bikini car wash though! 

Help Help Help me in this mission!  http://www.race4cancer.org/ 
Go Team!


Tuesday, December 20, 2011

A Little Cross Training

I wanted to do a fairly long run today but for some reason, even 3 miles was killing me, so I stopped there.  It was pretty hot in the exercise room on that treadmill so that could have been part of the problem.  Or maybe I was just having a lazy day.  But I followed it with 30 minutes on the stationary bike with the Climb Kilimanjaro workout.  I like that one because it makes me feel like I am REALLY training for Kilimanjaro, which I plan to climb in February.

I felt it all in my legs so I guess it was still a good workout.  I'm feeling most frustrated with my Team In Training fundraising.  I just can't come up with a really good plan, especially while I am up here in Deadhorse. 

I want to come up with something that uses my photography.  People don't seem to want to donate just because they care about cancer.  I think they need to get something in return.  It works for Girl Scout Cookies! 

Peace on earth means a world without cancer!

Sunday, December 18, 2011

10 Miles

I hit the treadmill for a fairly good 10 mile run today.  I guess I broke the chain of oversleeping and missing out on running altogether for the previous two days.  I'm hoping to get in some longer runs before I leave here. 

I got another donation today.  I always feel encouraged when I see that my efforts are bringing in more funding for this important cause.  I just hate to see people suffering with cancer.  I dream of the day when we no longer have to fear this disease. 


Thursday, December 15, 2011

Slow Run Today

I had lots of good intentions when I woke up too early today.  But my body was just too tired to listen to those good intentions.  30 below outside and the heater in my room just doesn't seem to keep up.  Between being kind of cold and all the annoying racket going on outside, I just didn't get enough sleep.  But at least I managed to forge through a 5 mile run on the treadmill.  Maybe it's time for a rest day.

No new donations today.  Still hoping for some to come through.  I'm trying to come up with an interesting fundraiser that I can do up here in Prudhoe Bay.  A car wash is definitely out!!!

I'm looking forward to getting home and at least having the chance to run at the sports center instead of the treadmill.  It's pretty dark and dreary and cold here.

This is the fine view from my room during the lightest part of the day.

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

The Treadmill Today

Just another 5 miler on the treadmill.  I can't seem to wake up early enough to get in a good long run.  Maybe it's the continual darkness making my brain think it is always time to sleep.  I hope I don't have to resort to the alarm clock!!! 
But I had a good run today, indoors, considering it is currently 30 below zero.  I don't think I want to go for a run out there!

Good news today from my cousin Michael.  He is responding very well to chemo.  That's what my training is all about.  Running to help find a cure for cancer.  It seems like progress is slowly being made.  It's only through tedious medical research funded by contributions through charities and government programs that the much needed cure will be found.  My fundraising is very slow but I keep putting the word out.  I sure appreciate the support I have received so far.

Monday, December 12, 2011

Blizzard Today

It's blowing and snowing outside as usual, so also as usual I ran on the treadmill.  Only another 5 miles.  I am now making my short runs a standard 5 miles instead of the 3 mile short runs that I used to do.  At least that way I get more weekly mileage.  I'm about ready for a long run though.

I got a new domain name to forward to my Team In Training fundraising page so that it is something easier for people to remember.  From now on, I will point it to whatever Team In Training event I am doing.  That simplifies things so I don't need to update my website and my blog every time I sign up for a new event.

Now you can link to my site here http://www.race4cancer.org

Saturday, December 10, 2011

Another 5 on the North Slope

I just did one more indoor workout on the Prudhoe Bay Hotel treadmill.  Listening to music and watching the news on TV, but trying to imagine that I am running on a gentle trail through the forest enjoying the fresh air instead of the musty smell inside the building.  But it was still a good workout.  I'm really looking forward to Phoenix and a nice long 26.2 mile run through the streets of Phoenix OUTDOORS!  I think just seeing daylight while I am running will be a good thing.  I miss the sun.  It goes away completely this time of year in Prudhoe Bay. 

I'm hoping for some help in my fundraising.  Gotta get rid of cancer.

Thursday, December 8, 2011

5 On The Treadmill

I just had a fairly good workout of 5 miles on the treadmill with many sprints to try to increase my overall speed.  But I sure am slow!  I also did 30 minutes on the exercise bike using the 'Climb Kilimanjaro' program setting. 
I feel inspired by the book Born to Run by Christopher McDougall, but I think I would have to work out for about 1000 years to ever come close to the amazing runners discussed in that book. I can't imagine how anyone can run 100 miles, but I would sure love to run at least one ultramarathon in my life.

But for now the most important thing is not my speed, it's the cause. My training is to beat cancer. 

Help me in the fight by visiting my

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

Half Marathon on the Treadmill!

I woke up so early and no matter how hard I tried, I just could not sleep.  Too much on my mind.  First I went to the post office to mail my last two Christmas items.  Then tried again to sleep - once again impossible.  So I said, what the heck, I have a little extra time so I think I will do a long run today.  So I ran a half marathon.  13.1 miles on the treadmill.  I watched 2 episodes of Seinfeld and 3 episodes of Big Bang Theory on the TV before I was done.  It may be boring but it's all I've got when it is 25 below zero and dark outside.  Not conducive to an outdoor run!

Sunday, December 4, 2011

5 and 5

Just did another 5 miles on the treadmill.  I did a lot of short sprints to try to increase my allover speed.  Then I did another 5 miles on the exercise bike using the 'Kilimanjaro Climb' program.  Seemed like an appropriate program since I am climbing Kilimanjaro in February.  No option but to workout indoors today with a big blizzard going on outside. 

Hoping to get back into pre-moose-stomping shape by the time I get to Phoenix for the Rock 'n' Roll Phoenix Marathon.  I can tell I am still not back to where I was before that injury. But I'm working on it.

Saturday, December 3, 2011

5 Mile Short Run Today

I had a restless sleep day, busy making hotel reservations for the Rock 'n' Roll Phoenix Marathon, and figuring out strange charges on my phone bill when I should have been sleeping.  So I got up late, and procrastinated for a while.  But finally hit the treadmill and did my 5 mile run.  I have a lot of catching up to do to make up for the 4 months this past summer when I was hardly able to run because of my moose stomping injuries.  But I'm motivated with Mt Kilimanjaro and two marathons in my immediate future.

Most important is the Rock 'n' Roll Madrid Marathon that I am running for Team In Training.  More important than my speed, is the need to fundraise to help fight cancer.  Please help me reach the ultimate goal - a cure.

*****

Friday, December 2, 2011

10 Miles on the Treadmill

It's -13 outside and of course dark so I will be trotting on the treaadmill for the entire month of December.  I did 10 miles today.  I'm planning to get in quite a lot of mileage this month, but it will all be indoors.  It seems to be a good workout even though it is difficult to not die of boredom!  At least I am thankful that we have a couple of nice functioning treadmills here at the Prudhoe Bay Hotel.  I would be so lost without them!

Thursday, December 1, 2011

Ran and Rode Today

Now that I am signed up for two marathons, a climb of Mt. Kilimanjaro, and a bicycle trip in Spain I am trying to do a little running and biking.  Everything has to be indoors while here in Deadhorse though.  Did 5 miles on the treadmill followed by 45 minutes on the stationary bike.  If I keep this up all month I should be ready for Rock 'n' Roll Phoenix Marathon in January, Climbing Kilimanjaro in February, Rock 'n' Roll Madrid Marathon in Spain in April, and REI Adventure's Portugal & Spain Cycling: The Alentejo to Andalusia also in April.

Gotta keep in shape while up here in the frozen north.

Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Madrid

I signed up for my next Team In Training event.  Off to Madrid, Spain in April 2012 for the Rock 'n' Roll Madrid Marathon.  I will be trraining for that and also for the Rock 'n' Roll Phoenix in January as a training run for Madrid.  I just have to be training for a Team In Training event all the time.  Gotta kick cancer.  It's my passion.  If we can rid the world of cancer, the world will be a much better place for everyone - free from the fear of cancer.

Help me in my fundraising by visiting my
Team In Training Page

Saturday, November 5, 2011

Rock "n" Roll Savannah Marathon

I did it, I finished another marathon. Number 16 for me.  One of my slowest of course.  I'm still recovering a bit from being stomped by the moose back in May.  I noticed some shoulder pain and felt generally a little weak.  We got up at 4:30 am and I think I could have used a bit more sleep.  The howling wind from yesterday was still with us but it was clear and sunny at least.  We sat around for an hour and half at the start area and by the time I checked my coat I was so cold that I was shaking uncontrollably. I found a big garbage bag and poked my head through it.  It really saved the day for me because I warmed up immediately.  I wore that sill thing for the first 2 miles.  It was a fun run, and the bands were great.  I really got a kick out of all the kids and the crowds in general lining the roads cheering us on.  I think they had more energy than I did!
Towards the end I was getting pretty tired, but coach Tim came along and gave me some gummy bears and a Diet Pepsi.  It's amazing how that combination helped.  I practically sprinted the last 2 miles.  They said our little flex team of 39 raised $140,000 for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.  That's what its all about.  I ran this one for Michael Kaminski, my cousin with Hodgkin's Lymphoma.  I really pray for a cure for these terrible blood cancers.
Here is a silly screen shot of me at the finish line.  I'm not sure I will actually buy the photo because I look like a disaster.  Gotta pick up the pace on the next one.


GO TEAM!

Friday, November 4, 2011

Warm-Up Run

Today we did a short 3 mile warm-up run before breakfast as a team from the hotel to Forsyth Park to the beautiful fountain and back.  It was freezing cold because it was only 47 degrees and the wind was howling.  It gave us a good idea of what the conditions are likely to be tomorrow.  So much for me worrying about it being too warm.  I'm praying for sun or at least for that awful wind to stop!

I love the fountain.

Tomorrow is the big day - Rock and Roll Savannah!

Monday, October 31, 2011

Ocean City, New Jersey

I finally had a chance to run again this morning.  Along the highways and freeways and turnpikes and toll roads, it has been totally impossible.  But this morning I woke up in my beautiful hotel room on the 9th floor of the Port Of Call Hotel in Ocean City, New Jersey, then went down to the beach.  First I scattered some of Mother's ashes in the waves because Ocean City was always our summer playground and I knew she would like that.  Then I went for a nice 3 mile run along the beach.  It was really cold, around 36 degrees but felt nice because the sun was out without a cloud in the sky.  Shorebirds were everywhere and didn't even bother to move most of the time as I ran by.  I could tell they are quite used to people.


Thursday, October 27, 2011

Mammoth Cave Walk

Cross training today. It was pouring rain again so I didn't want to try to find a good running spot.  But I did have a nice hardy four hour walk through Mammoth Cave today.  That was more strenuous than my typical afternoon run.  I am behind in my travel time so will probably just go straight to Maryland in the morning. I am already halfway through West Virginia.  Maybe I will do a longer run in Maryland!

Mammoth Cave is an incredible place.  Well worth the visit.

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Lawrence, Kansas Today

I was afraid I was going to run out of Kansas before I found a good place to run.  I left Topeka and found myself stuck on the turnpike.  So I had to exit at Lawrence.  I saw someone running along a bike path so found a place to park and had a nice run there.  I was running out of time so only did 2 miles.  But it was so hot that I think that was enough.  I sure hope it isn't that hot in Savannah!

Lots of pretty fall colors in Kansas today.

Sunday, October 23, 2011

Evergreen, Colorado

I did my run in Colorado today.  Wow, 7200 feet.  I could sure feel that.  I ran around a small lake here in Evergreen and I could sure feel the altitude.  It was also very hot but there was a good breeze blowing so that really helped. I just ran 3 miles.  I guess I will think twice before I sign up to do a marathon in Denver.  That altitude really does make a difference.  I was really slow but it was a great workout.  There were lots of steps in several places which really gave me an extra workout.  The drive to Evergreen from Craig was gorgeous especially through the pass after Winter Park.
A gorgeous day and a gorgeous drive through Colorado.

Saturday, October 22, 2011

Utah

I had a very interesting run today on a road that supposedly led to a place called Strawberry Pinnacles.  I never did get to any pinnacles, but had a nice 3 mile run along the road.  Sometimes it's hard to find a reasonable place to run when driving along a highway for hours and hours.  I don't feel like running along the highway shoulder with trucks zooming by, and desolate roads can seem a little spooky. But this spot was really very nice.

Friday, October 21, 2011

Idaho

Well since we still needed to drive back to Twin Falls, and I was still in my running clothes, soon after we crossed back into Idaho after driving to Jackpot, Nevada, I jumped out and did another 2 mile run on a gravel road in Idaho.  While I ran, Truman and Dixie had lunch.  It was a beautiful and peaceful place with once again, not a car anywhere.  Now I have run in all the states and Canadian Provinces that I have visited so far.  Off to Utah tomorrow.
Here is the road I ran on here in Idaho.


It was a lovely place for a peaceful afternoon run.

Jackpot, Nevada

I thought I was going to stay in Nevada on Wednesday night but I was so close to Twin Falls, Idaho that I just breezed right on in.  But I didn't get the chance to run in Nevada.  Today Truman and Dixie wanted to give me another chance to do it so we drove down to Jackpot, Nevada and I ran a 2.4 mile run on a really nice gravel road.  That was fun!  The area was peaceful and there were no cars at all. A real rural run.


I hated to miss a state when my plan is to do a run in every state that I pass through.  I am caught up again now.

Sunday, October 16, 2011

Nike Women's Marathon

I did it, I finished, crossed the finish line, got the necklace, got the finisher's T shirt.  It was awesome.  I am totally beat but it was worth the effort.  This was my 4th Nike so I have a little collection of the Tiffany necklaces.  I love that run.  I was really worried because for the last 4 months my training has been terrible. First the broken ribs and collarbone after the moose stomped me back in May.  Then surgery on the collarbone July 9th, again putting me out of commission for another 6 weeks.  Then the last week of September some strep throat sort of thing that lasted for two miserable weeks.  If that wasn't enough, I drove 3200 miles to San Francisco from Alaska.  But at least I did a short run in each state and Canadian province along the way.  At least it was enough to finish. I don't know the official results yet but my chip time was a little more than 6 hours.  Certainly not great, but I am not complaining after all I have been through to finally get the chance to do the run.

Saturday, October 15, 2011

San Francisco

Well tomorrow is the day. Nike Women's Marathon number 4 for me.  It's pretty warm around here and I hope I don't roast tomorrow.  I hope I can finish because I am still partially recovering from being stomped by the moose back in May, and from a horrible 2 week long cold/sore throat thing.  I also just drove 3200 miles from Alaska.  But I think I can do it.  I will give it my best shot anyway.

This one is for my cousin Michael Kaminski who has Hodgkin's Lymphoma.  I will be thinking of him with every step.  He has to beat this thing.

Thursday, October 13, 2011

Washington and Oregon Today

I woke up in Bellingham, Washington this morning and now I am sleeping in the shadow of my beloved Mt. Shasta, one of my favorite places on earth.  The 14,000 foot peak that I have climbed 13 times by every route but the Hotlam Headwall.  All back in the 70's when I lived here.  I hope one day to climb it for the 14th time.

Since I crossed two states today I had to run in both states to maintain my plan to run in every state and province on my trip.  In Washington when I stopped to get gas, I followed a sign to Tolmie State Park Beach.  The beach was small but I ran along it for about one mile then started following the two trails up the hills through the rain forest for a total of 3 miles.  It was quite spectacular and some good hill practice.  It even stopped raining for me!




I ran again on a little country road south of Eugene, Oregon just before sunset when it finally stopped raining there.  I only ran one mile because it was starting to get dark.
I will make it to San Francisco tomorrow

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

87 Mile Loop Road British Columbia

I had a terrible earache yesterday so decided to do my British Columbia run sometime today. There was not a very good running place near my hotel this morning so I decided to just drive along and pick a place that looked good.  I found the most charming little road.  It was a 1.5 mile loop road off the main highway that just went through the woods parallel to the highway south of 100 Mile House.  I parked in the middle of the loop and ran to both ends for a nice 3 mile run.  It started to rain just as I got back to the car.  It was lovely.

This is my little running road.

Tomorrow will be a challenge because I will most likely drive all the way through both Washington and Oregon which means I need to run twice.  I am hoping to make it to Mt. Shasta tomorrow night.

Monday, October 10, 2011

Whitehorse, Yukon Territory Canada

I got up and ran 3 miles at sunrise this morning from my hotel in Whitehorse.  It's snowing lightly and right at freezing. It was a gorgeous drive yesterday by Kluane Lake.


Heading south now!

Sunday, October 9, 2011

Tok Alaska

I left Palmer around noon yesterday and made it to Tok, Alaska last night. I managed to lock myself out of my car at the gas station, while it was still running!  But the nice man with a slim jim got the door open.  I stayed in Tok last night and woke up to quite a snowstorm.  It took a little kicking myself to get out and run in that, but I did run 3 miles in the 2 inches of new snow.  It was and is still snowing very hard.  I'm taking my time jumping into the car and heading off to Canada.  But it should be ok because the road itself looks just wet.  It is pretty warm.

Beautiful drive yesterday.  Mt Sanford and Mt Drum and the Matanuska Glacier were in bright sunshine.  Just amazing!



Saturday, September 24, 2011

5 Miles

Thank goodness for the phone call that woke me up today.  I actually had time for a 5 mile run.  One look at that windsock out the window and the light snow blowing sideways told me that today it would be on the treadmill.  It was pretty disgusting outside.  The treadmill is kind of boring and I get really hot when running on it.  But it is probably better than icing up updoors on days like today.

Still hoping to meet my fundraising goal before I get to Savannah.  I keep finding out that more of my friends have been diagnosed with cancer.  It might be a small thing, but I know that running these marathons and raising money all adds up.  One day there will be a cure.  I hope I am around to see that beautiful day.

Check out my Fundraising Page


Friday, September 23, 2011

Chilly Run

I just couldn't stand the idea of that treadmill again.  It was really cold today and the wind was blowing and it was below freezing, and snowing off and on.  I had hoped to run longer but once again, I just couldn't seem to wake up.  I work all night then sleep during the day with the intention of getting up around 2 pm.  But today I really slept in and woke up at almost 5 pm.  That barely gives me enough time to eat dinner and take a shower, let alone get in any kind of significant workout.  But I jumped in the car and drove down to my favorite little road that goes out to the Sagavanirktok River, parked the car and did a very bone-chilling 3 mile run.  In spite of the windburn on my face it still felt pretty good.  I'm glad I did it. I plan to ride the stationary bike some tonight while at work.  I can do that and still monitor the weather. It's snowing again.
I saw my little Snowy Owl again.  He seems like an omen of goodwill somehow.  He always turns to look at me when I see him too.

Thursday, September 22, 2011

Snow

I was so excited to finally see a patch of blue sky.  I got all dressed in my running clothes, grabbed the iPhone, then looked out the window again.  It was snowing so hard that I didn't dare even get in the car and try to find a reasonable place to run.  So sadly, I went downstairs to the treadmill here at the Prudhoe Bay Hotel and ran for only 3 miles.  It gets so hot down there that I feel like I sweat off 10 pounds a mile.  The dreary weather seems to keep me from waking up early enough to do a much longer run like I need to do. Oh where has my motivation gone?  I'm looking forward to getting home next week then starting my drive to San Francisco for the Nike Women's Marathon.  I'm hoping to stop each day along the road for a training run. I hope I can find some fall colors along the way too. 

Sunday, September 18, 2011

5 Miles Today

Oh my, I have definately been a bit under the weather the last few days. Can't get myself going. Speaking of weather, it's been pretty horrible this week. In the 30s with a 35 knot wind blowing and raining overcast and very ugly. Autumn in Deadhorse!

But I dragged myself to the treadmill and ran a short 5 miles. It was so hot in there that I was dripping wet the whole time. But at least I'm glad I did it.

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

10 Miles in Fog

It started out as the most beautiful day with 50 degrees and a light wind and nothing but bright sunshine.  But about 30 minutes into my 10 mile run, in rolled the fog.  It was early today.  It usually doesn't show up until the minute I walk into the Flight Service Station door to start work.  By the time I finished my run I was freezing, adding layers, and running against the wind.
A beautiful snowy owl flew over me once.  I had been photographing them the last few days, but not today with all that fog.  They are so gorgeous.  I hope to get a better close-up at some point.


I am running very slowly these days.  My shoulder still hurts and I know I can look forward to an agonizing day tomorrow in repayment for a 10 mile run. So for that reason, I am probably going to alter my training schedule from something that really looks like a normal marathon training schedule to something quite different.  I really need my long runs, but even after a short run, my shoulder pain is extreme for a couple of days.  So I will likely limit my runs to longer ones, every 3 days or so, and pass on the short 3 and 4 mile ones.  I need to pick up speed and increase my endurance, not only for the two marathons in the next two months but also for my upcoming climb of Mt. Kilimanjaro in February.  I can't afford to wait 3 days to recover after every short run.  So I will run a lot, recover a few days then run a lot more.
I will see how this new strategy goes for a while.

Saturday, September 10, 2011

Ten Miles

Finally, I got in a fairly long run.  The weather is obnoxious so rather than drown out there in the pouring rain on the mud road, I ran on the treadmill.  It was a slow run and my shoulder wasn't all that happy about it, but I hung in there.  I need to get running some long runs with two marathons in the near future and also a climb of Mt. Kilimanjaro soon after.  I have to whip myself back into shape, shoulder pain or not.  That's all there is to it.  So from now on, I will just pretend I don't have a right shoulder!

Friday, September 9, 2011

Overslept - Short Run

I woke up at 4 pm.  I work nights so that isn't quite as bad as it sounds, but it is still 2 hours later than it should have been.  I have not run for a couple of days because my healing collarbone and shoulder injury has been really giving me trouble.  The running seems to loosen up the joint but it also causes horrendous pain a few hours later.  But today I did manage to drag myself out and do a 3 mile run out on the little trail a few miles south of Deadhorse.  It was snowing off and on, and pretty chilly.  Shoulder is currently killing me, but I am still glad I forced myself to run. With two marathons on the horizon, I really need to get moving. 
Also on the horizon, I am looking at the REI Kilimanjaro Climb and Photo Safari in January, and an awesome bike trip through Lisbon Portugal and Granada Spain in April.  So I think I need to get myself back into shape quickly.
I'm sure sick of the pain though.  But you know what they say - No pain no gain.  Whatever.  I'm not sure this is the kind of pain they are referring too, but it still sounds good anyway.

Monday, September 5, 2011

Around the Lake

It was kind of windy and dreary as usual, but I just couldn't stand the idea of the treadmill.  So I put on the hat and gloves and jacket and did my favorite run around Colleen Lake.  I was slower than usual, but at least I made it around the lake.  If I always look toward the lake, I can pretend I am running through the Arctic wilderness.  Never mind the frequent trucks and all the industrial buildings and oil rigs in every other direction. The wind was only in my face half the way too.  Wind chill was about 30 but it was fairly pleasant really.  The best part is that while I am running my shoulder doesn't hurt.  Gotta keep it up if I want to be ready for the marathons ahead of me.

Saturday, September 3, 2011

Short Run

I had planned to do a longer run today but after about 20 minutes I was getting very cold and not really feeling very well.  So after 30 minutes and 3 miles and lots of icy cold arctic wind, I decided to stop.  I'm still really worn out from my shoulder injuries.  The pain goes away while I am running but becomes almost instantly agonizing when I stop.  So today just a short run.

It was very overcast and cloudy but down the road about 20 miles the sun was peeking through the fog and the tundra had a really nice light.  It's a pretty bleak place but there is still a rugged beauty.

I'm hoping to get a lot more ambitious before I head home the end of the month.

Friday, September 2, 2011

Pouring Rain

It wasn't the rain itself that made me resort to the treadmill, but the thick mud that the roads around here quickly become when they get wet.  It does make for a good workout because by the time you have reached one mile, you generally have about 3 inches of concrete-like mud hanging from each shoe. 
I was extremely tired today.  Too much stress too much loss lately.  Not only am I sad from losing my mother but yesterday I lost a friend also.  It seemed easier to just crawl under the covers and try to escape from my thoughts.  But I finally forced myself down to the treadmill and put in a quick 3 miles.  I think I needed that.  I do seem to be sleeping better up here in Deadhorse.  I'm not sure why, especially with the sun shining in the window since I have to sleep during the day. 

The shoulder was pain free while I was running, so it does seem to be a good way to exercise that joint.

Thursday, September 1, 2011

Colleen Lake Run

I just had an amazing run around Colleen Lake.  My first day here in Deadhorse after the toughest two month break I have ever had. Surgery in July and loss of my mother in August. This was my first run since my collarbone surgery on July 13th.  I was in real agony when I walked out the door of the Prudhoe Bay Hotel, but within seconds the pain was gone.  Was that an instant runner's high?  Sure seemed that way.  5 minutes after stopping though, the pain was back.  So finally, I have found a second way to get away from the pain, besides being sound asleep.  Running - it stops the pain instantly.  So if I spend all of my time either asleep or running, I will never have anymore shoulder pain! I ran about 6 miles today.  I have to really get on the ball and make up for lost time because I have the Nike Women's Marathon on October 16th and the Rock and Roll Savannah Marathon on November 5th.  I have some catching up to do for sure!

Saturday, July 30, 2011

Hiking Finally

Well, the surgery is probably the key to get this collarbone to heal.  But it sure has been horribly and debilitatingly painful!  But I finally got out and hiked the Twin Peaks trail yesterday.  It felt good.  Not much chance of running but at least I was able to hike at a reasonable rate of speed.  I had to keep my arm in the sling of course.  I don't know if I am going to be able to run enough to do the Big Wild Life Marathon, but I still plan to try it.

The view of Eklutna Lake was gorgeous as usual.

Wednesday, July 13, 2011

Getting Fixed!

I'm off to the hospital this morning to get my collarbone surgically repaired.  I hope this means one day soon I will be healed and can return to my training. I miss running so much!

Sunday, July 10, 2011

Hatcher Pass Marathon

I did it! Slowest marathon ever, and seemed like the toughest because it really is straight up a mountain with a 4000 foot elevation gain, without the luxury of turning around and running straight down the same way. 25 miles up and then just one quick mile down to the finish. It took me 8 hours but that was because I was handicapped ith broken ribs and my arm in a sling because of my broken collarbone that is not healing. Surgery next week! So it was partly a walk and partly a run. I can tell that I am still in quite a weakened state from my injuries plus I have not been training for about a month. But I just wanted to do it, and I did. I believe that was marathon number14.

I don't know if I can do the Anchorage Big Wild Life Marathon on August 21 because I am not sure how I will feel after the surgery. Before another marathon I really want to get in some good training. I will see how quickly I heal.

At the finish at Hatcher Pass.

Monday, June 27, 2011

Around Colleen Lake

I walked at the fastest pace I could, the 5 miles around the lake.  My shoulder is still hurting pretty badly so I didn't do very much actual running today. But what a beautiful invigorating workout I had.  It's a beautiful sunny day with a 20 knot wind.  I thought I might find the wind to be too much, but it really felt kind of nice.  I saw a few geese and ducks and other birds.  Of course I also saw lots of trucks. 

I also drove down the Dalton Highway to Caren Pond, about 20 miles.  I only saw a couple of distant caribou.  Yesterday I saw the huge herd of thousands that were spread out over about 10 miles, but I guess they have moved on.  Here is a cute photo from yesterday.


Now to get to my fundraising.  I sold a digital photo yesterday and asked for a donation to my Team In Training site as payment.  But the buyer got confused and donated to the UNICEF fund instead.  Oh well, the UNICEF kids need lots of help. 

But I could sure use some donations to my race against cancer.  Please consider making a donation to my Team In Training site.

Saturday, June 25, 2011

5 Miles Around the Lake

It was a beautiful day here in Deadhorse, only about 15 knots of wind and 47 degrees.  I walked most of the way around Colleen Lake because the jarring of running still causes a lot of pain to my broken collarbone.  But I did run about 1 mile of the route, or at least a slow jog with my right arm restrained. It took an hour and a half.  That's pretty slow but at least it's a start to getting back into running.

Only 14 days until the Hatcher Pass Marathon.  It looks like I will at least be able to walk it.

Sunday, June 19, 2011

Working at it

I'm still hanging in there but the last two days have been especially painful to my chest, arm, and shoulder.  But I did force myself to do 30 minutes on the exercise bike.  I tried to take a walk outside but the wind was just too obnoxious.  I do hope I can get to at the very least, walk around the lake for 5 miles.  But not in these high winds.  Running, not sure when I can do it again. 

But I will still do my marathons no matter how slowly I have to do them.

Help me fight cancer - click on the Team In Training logo below.

Thursday, June 16, 2011

No Pain No Gain?

Well I'm not so sure that saying really applies here but yes I am in great pain.  Pain in my right arm and shoulder, most likely the result of the broken collarbone after being stomped by that moose.  It doesn't seem to have any intentions of improving.  But I was able to have a fairly good 30 minute workout on the stationary bike today, keeping the right arm in the sling.  At least my legs got a workout and I think it was a fairly good aerobic workout as well.  But it was a far cry from what I would like to be doing to get into the marathon shape that I need to be in.

I took a nice drive down the Dalton Highway about 10 miles and got some interesting weather photos. This was my favorite of a storm in the distance behind the Alaska Pipeline and a tiny tundra pond.  We finally have some nice warm weather in the 60s and it brings with it some afternoon cumulous clouds and showers.  I so miss running along the road like I have always done in the past.

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

Takin' it Easy

My pain was a little worse this afternoon when I woke up so I decided not to push it too hard.  But I did do a short 15 minute ride on the bike.  Tomorrow if the pain is better I want to shoot for a 1 hour ride.  It is a delicate balance between keeping in shape, helping myself heal, and doing further damage.  The only thing I have to gage it by is the pain.

But I really want to run those marathons, it is my way of helping end cancer.  I don't mind a little pain.  Maybe this battle of mine is a gentle reminder of what cancer patients have to deal with.  Pain and disability are terrible things, and I am getting a small glance at what it must be like.

Monday, June 13, 2011

Great Cross Training

I am thrilled!  I just did 5 miles on the exercise bike.  Doesn't seem like much, I know, but it is a milestone.  It is an excellent alternative to running so I can at least keep my legs in shape and get good aerobics.  It should help me a lot when I do get back to running.  I am able to keep my right arm still but get a good heartrate, and not disturb the broken collarbone.  I feel so good about being able to do this. I am so hoping that somehow I can still do the Hatcher Pass Marathon on July 9th.

"You're never given a dream without also being given the power to make it true."
Richard Bach


I'm not going to let this  little moose stomping injury destroy my dream of racing to cure cancer!

Sunday, June 12, 2011

Baby Steps

Well it really wasn't much of a workout, but I dragged myself downstairs to the exercise room and tried again to use the exercise bike.  I only rode for 2 miles because I wanted to make sure I wasn't doing damage to the broken ribs and collarbone.  But I found I was able to work my legs without causing undue pain to my chest and shoulder.  I'm planning to ride it each day now until I go home the end of the month.  I don't know if I will be able to run any time soon, but who knows, it may be possible for me to at least walk that Hatcher Pass Marathon on July 9th.  I think riding the bike is good for my lungs because it's easy to get lazy and not breathe deeply enough due to the pain of the broken ribs.  Exercise makes me breathe harder.  And that's a good thing.

I sure need more donations to help with my fight to cure cancer.  Please go to my FUNDRAISING PAGE, and pass it along to others even if you can't make a donation.

Go Team!

Saturday, May 28, 2011

Training On Hold

Well, looks like I may be out of commission for a little while.  I got stomped by a moose on Monday, May 23rd while working in my yard.  I have lots of broken ribs and a broken right collarbone plus serious soft tissue damage to my right shoulder and bruises all over everything else.  I have a hoof print on my forehead as a constant reminder.  Poor momma moose had to get killed when she charged again while troopers were helping me.  She missed me by inches and they shot her 10 feet from my body.  I'm quite sore, spent one night in the hospital and have been struggling all week just to move.  Heading up to Deadhorse on Tuesday May 31st and hope to at least be able to ride the stationary bike or something.  It's not looking real good for the Hatcher Pass Marathon but if I can, I will consider walking it.

Got a photo of the moose the night before the attack.  She has two calves that were rescued by the Moose Federation and I am trying to link up with them to offer help and financial assistance.
Here is momma, may she rest in peace.


Sunday, May 22, 2011

Hill Hiking

I didn't get a chance to actually run yesterday but did do a couple of nice hikes at Eklutna Lake.  The Lakeside Trail is pretty flat, a nice casual warmup hike - gorgeous too:


But after that Diane and I hiked up the Twin Peaks Trail to the overlook and got a nice look at the entire lake.  What a spectacular view that is.  Nice steep trail too.  It was a good workout even though it was not a run, only a hike.  But a good one.



Wednesday, May 18, 2011

5 Miles on the Hills

I tackled the hills again, up and down from Wolverine Creek.  Moving really slowly, but I sure need the hills.  It was spectacular out there today.  Beautiful with the new spring leaves on the trees.  They have such a bright yellow green color this time of year.  I hope this nice weather holds.  It's really nice to be able to run in the bright sunshine even if it was still only in the high 30's this morning when I went for my 5 mile run.  Now it is windy and cloudy so tomorrow may not be quite so nice.

Pioneer Peak and the new leaves of spring.

Monday, May 16, 2011

Up and Down the Hills

Did only 5 miles again today.  Still not feeling too well.  But I really need to take full advantage of the big hills on Wolverine Road while I have them.  In June I just have the flat land of the North Slope although I think if I drive about 50 miles south there is a good hill there.  I hope to do that at least once a week while I am there.  There is so much work to do lately that I never seem to have the time that I really want to dedicate to long distance running.  I hope to at least do Lazy Mountain again this month or maybe even Matanuska Peak.  It looks like there is enough snow gone now to do Matanuska Peak, but I would like some company for that one.  I may break down and do it solo.  It wouldn't be the first time.

Sunday, May 15, 2011

5 Miles

I'm a weekend overdue for posting here.  I did get in a 5 mile run back on Friday the 13th.  Just been so busy lately that I can't even keep up with this little blog.  I went to Soldotna on Saturday for our Secular Franciscan meeting then on to Homer that night.  Camped on the spit and drove home today.  No running this weekend.  In fact I was kind of sick all weekend.  The weather was pretty dreary so not great for photography, which was a little disappointing.  But I did get a couple of good eagle shots and a cute one of the little Ninilchik church.  Hoping to be a little more productive the rest of the month.  Lots of yard work still to do before I head back to Deadhorse on the 29th.

Saturday, May 7, 2011

3 Mile Run + Lazy Mountain Climb

Just a short run today.  But I think I will go for a hike or something.  There might be enough snow up at Hatcher Pass to actually get out the cross country skis for a final chance for the season.

Well, that didn't quite happen.  I didn't bring my skis and when I got up to Hatcher Pass I found so much snow that skis would be the only choice.  On my way back home I thought I would just have a peek at the Lazy Mountain trail.  Next thing I knew, 2 hours later I was on the top.  What a muddy steep mess that climb was.  But it felt great and it was exciting to finally get up there again.  THAT was a hill workout.  3700 at the top.  Snowing a bit up there and pretty windy and chilly.  Now I need to do that about 10 more times before going back to Deadhorse.

Got this great shot with my cell phone of the view from the top towards Matanuska Peak. 


As you can see, Hatcher Pass is still skis only!