Friday, September 27, 2013

It Is Now Or Never...

(At one point I thought I would get lucky!)



Well, it is safe to say I jinxed myself last night when I mentioned the predicted weather change.

If you could only hear the moan I let out when I stumbled out of my bedroom to be greeted with "Hey...it is snowing on the mountains...look!".

*sigh* 

I tried to see the mountains and literally could not see a damn thing past the tops of the lower level of trees. Nothing but fog..mist..and snow.

The sun tried to come out a little before noon and that is when I decided to make my final attempt. Unlike yesterday, today I looked like I was heading to Antarctica or something. Long pants, two layers of shirts, buff, gloves, and my Summit waist/leg belt. Along with me I packed 2 water bottles, 2 gels, an extra cover up and phone. I was not sure how much of an effort the weather was going to require of me, so instead of the chicken I ate before yesterdays run I only ate a Cliffbar this morning. So far so good!

(You could not even see her from the water!)



I was actually surprised at how good the trail conditions were considering all the rain @ 9,600 ft. Yesterday, my Speedcross had some trouble on all the dry rock but today they took to the mud like a champ! I was surprised at what good time I made to where I left off yesterday. As I continued to go further the summit got closer and closer. I could not believe it!

(Ideal conditions at the start)


AND that is when the weather changed. I have to be honest. I was above 11,000 ft when I saw snowflakes really start to pick up, but I have never seen things get bad so quick. What was even weirder was that I think I *heard* it before I even saw it change. The roar of the wind coming down the mountain was insane. That was literally all you could hear before everything would go white. It was a friggin white out people! The sharpness in the air took my breath away and stung my skin like you would not believe. The temperature dropped so low at one point that my hands (which I kept in gloves) got too cold to operate the IPhone, making photos impossible past a certain point because we all know the phone won't work unless you have a special glove...which I do not :(

(I was so close....the end was just up there...I swear!)

(And then I was told to turn around ;) )




Anyway, it was at this point that I made the decision to turn around. While I really wanted to kiss that beautiful mountain on the lips....I ended up kissing the butt instead. I will say though, the amount of respect I gained for the mountain in a very very short amount of time was incredible. She truly is a part of Mother Nature....and like a mother...she will guide you and support you, even giving encouragement....but when she decides it is time for you to go home.....you will know it! I got a stern lesson today! When I got back down to around 9,600 ft and turned around I could not see where I was coming from. That was a clear indicator to me that I successfully listened to my instincts but at the same time got to experience something very special!

I may not have made it the whole 12,988 ft but I feel on top of the world and would do it again in a heartbeat. Up until the time I had to turn around, the trip up was very enjoyable. The ease at which my body was able to navigate is a good sign that my training methods throughout the week were on target. While at one point my legs started to go numb from the wind and temperature change, I am pretty confident that I could have made it to the top if the snow and wind had not picked up. Until the end there was no real point where I was too hot or cold. I had plenty of hydration and gels, as I only ended up using one water bottle. All in all....I made good decisions the whole time and for that I am grateful.





I will be back to conquer it again. I can't say I consider this an "Epic Fail" because I have experienced so much this week. I am also glad that I focused on one area. I really was able to see the true beauty of the mountain each time I went up, and was able to see her in all conditions....both when happy and not so happy :)

For now...that is it. I am happy. I head home tomorrow and until then I basically have nothing to do....which is a very nice thing. I may get out and wonder around a little bit.

(I failed at the selfie...could not get one once the weather started...but you can see how windy it was!)


OH...and man to I wish I had taken a picture. About 1/2 hour before I decided to turn around the wind and snow were picking up. I swear to G*d...I turned around and saw a gentleman running in nothing but a windbreaker and shorts. When I turned around about 2 minutes later he was gone. I can only imagine that he either turned around or shot up a hill before the trail I was on. I am kind of worried. He was not prepared at all. He looked to be making a good speed but I am left with a queasy feeling because he never caught up to be for me to make sure with my own eyes that he was OK. I can only hope he is used to this weather and is perfectly fine...all dry and warm from his run. At one point...I really did think I was seeing things...but I swear he was there! As for the rest of the photos I took....just check the FB...I am too lazy to upload them all here :)

Thursday, September 26, 2013

Almost There!!


Totally amazing day people!

I almost made it all the way! Peak 8 is such a reality...I can hardly stand it!

(Heading back up!)


Now, I had not anticipated making it as far as I did but I cannot be happier that I went those extra steps today. When I took off this afternoon, I really only wanted to get about 1/2 way up the mountain and then turn around and reassess what I would have to do/need to make it all the way to the summit. I took off at a slow pace and really just tried to get a feel for the trails and the twists and turns a long with way. I won't lie... my legs and lungs burned! The hills were so rocky and steep. Each time I got to the top of one I would peak over, hoping to see some flat ground, only to see another set of rolling rocky hills!  It was hard to get discouraged though. Each time I thought I wanted to rest, I would just look straight ahead and see all the beautiful snow ahead. It was literally calling me. I cannot wait to stand on the very top and look all around!

(Trails)

(Lots of rock)



Tonight is calling for more snow at the higher elevations, so my next trip up could be very different than this one. I doubt I will see another 59 degree day with bright sun and high winds. I only had to wear a t-shirt and long pants on this run. The trails were dry and the snow was isolated to the very top of the mountain. If it snows again I will have to figure out how much and what type of clothing to take. Today's run only consisted of a hydration belt. If the temperature drops and I have to carry extra clothing I may have to carry my Camel Bak for storage. One things for sure, I will be taking more water. I went up with my UD hydration belt with one bottle of water. I had finished it just about 1/2 up. Tonight I purchased a second bottle with a hand belt, so hopefully I will be better prepared.



Anyway, after returning home from my amazing experience...things changed (but turned out wonderfully in the end.)

Now, if you read the blog from yesterday then you remember me mentioning that Team Grand Timber would be splitting up, with both the fun run at the Vertical Runner and a special event being covered for this entry. Well, turns out that we only have the fun run to share. Yesterday, I placed a call to the Boulder Running Company and left a message explaining that I wanted to reserve 2 tickets for Kilian Jornet's Q&A, but would be making a 2 hour drive to get there and could not just run in the store and grab them. I thought we were good to go until last night when the BRC website was pulled up and I was informed it was SOLD OUT. Yes, if you heard the sound of something breaking, it was my heart hitting the ground here in Colorado. I was crushed. I feel bad to admit it...but I got teared up. Now, as self proclaimed #1 SOML fan, I will admit...I had no clue. I really had not been paying attention to anything like that and never would have thought something would pop up in Boulder. Turns out they had 300 tickets to sell and I may have missed the boat. I got a call this morning from BRC and was told they had "skipped over some messages" and were now trying to figure out what to do, as they were "shocked" that it sold out. They told me they would call at 3:00 and let me know if they could do anything. Turns out they could not, so if you heard a random squishing sound at around 5:00 EST, it was my crushed heart being mashed into the floor.

So, as you can imagine, I was forced to "put on my big girl panties" (much love to Melodie) and get over it. That may have been the best decision I made all day.

Tonight we made it down to the Vertical Runner for the fun run with Sage Canaday and Ian Sharman. It was such a great event. Scott Running was also there and had plenty of demo shoes (both road and trail) to try on. Their reps were super knowledgeable and the runners even helped with fit and style questions. It was so neat to interact with them in such an intimate setting. To be able to discuss what I had done earlier in the day, what the conditions were up there, etc...with someone like Sage Canaday...it was just mind blowing! Oh...and let me tell you...his sister (who is also a coach)...is the greatest person on the planet. What a great group of people! Now,my legs were trashed from my little adventure today, so I only ended up taking some Scott demo shoes for a "run around the block"...but a group of about 15 or so got to take off and run the beginning portion of UROC. Now, it was described as a "casual fun run", but I was in awe of Ian Sharman when he literally took off like a rocket towards the trails! I also can't say enough about the Vertical Runner team and Scott Running. They made everyone, no matter what level of runner they were, feel like an elite. I am really going to miss that shop when I go home!

(New Stuff!)


After that, it was off to the Breckenridge Brewery and then a nice walk through downtown before heading home. Such a wonderful evening....it just keeps getting better!


For now that is it. I am forced to quit typing. In the past 10 minutes I have had reject Star Wars (Lego edition) from being allowed on the TV and now my skiing ability is being made fun of as Late On 8 is on showcasing Skimo. I can't win on somethings!





Wednesday, September 25, 2013

#Wind #Windsucks #Ihatewind

Hehehehe....if you don't get the humor behind all the # in the title...then before you go any further you have to watch this:



Anyway, moving on...today was a wonderful rest day. I had planned on hitting those beautiful vertical trails I ran yesterday, however, after I almost fell to the ground in pain after jumping out of bed, I decided to take it easy.

So with no running planned I did the only thing any girl would do (after eating only bacon and coffee for breakfast..ick). I went to the pool and then I went shopping (hey...but give me credit...I walked downtown and back!) It was a lovely day and at around 59 degrees it almost felt hot. Tomorrow is supposed to be about the same, so the run is sure to be a good one!



In not so good news, the weather is showing quite a bit of wind in the higher elevations over the next couple of days. We are talking about possible wind gusts around 40 mph. Now, I love me some wind...but I am not sure if I love me that much while trying to achieve what I have set out to with this trip. I am going to keep an eye on it and will let you all know how it goes. It helps to have knowledgeable people around me who are taking a look at the maps and finding other fun and amazing things to do in the mountains if need be!

Speaking of fun and amazing things...LOOK OUT...tomorrow is going to be an interesting entry. For the first time ever (*drum roll*)...this blog will be covering two separate topics at once. Team Grand Timber is splitting up. One half is going to the Fun Run with elite runners Sage Canaday and Max King (woohoo!)  and the other half is taking off with special guest (and uber cool friend) Melodie on an adventure that will probably go down in history as both hysterical and embarrassing. I will give no more away...you will just have to wait and see :) If you can guess...you will get a prize :)

** Update...not so much on the surprise fun adventure  :(  Fun run is still on people!

That is it for now. Nothing to talk about because this is what I did most afternoon:

(And yes...it was only 59 degrees)


Hate me...no wait....#hateme :)

I can't wait to write tomorrow and tell you all about everything. Then...Friday...and attempts that will be made before returning to the Bluegrass state at the end of the weekend!

Tuesday, September 24, 2013

Oh That Vertical High!!

Oh Happy Day!

Today was the first real test of the legs with some vertical trail and it was beyond wonderful! It has me so excited for the end of the week....I can barely stand it!

Of course, the day started off like any day should...with a trip to the local donut shop! I decided it was up to me to be the "early morning hero of the house" and head out down the hill to provide everyone with good old fashioned nourishment (hehehe...ok....so it was 8:00...still early in my book.) I suited up and managed to only partially freeze my ass off on the way down, making amazing time along the way. Upon arrival I quickly started heading south when I needed to be heading north and managed to go over 1/2 mile out of the way before turning around and backtracking. Turns out the donut shop I've been looking for is RIGHT NEXT to the Vertical Runner, the running shop I have visited just about every day since I got here. How I did not know this before today is beyond me...but lesson learned. I even got props from the donut man since I was "working out and getting donuts".  Unlike yesterday, this morning the streets were a little busier. I felt kind of odd running around there because it seemed like everyone driving through town was staring at me out their window. I mean...common...there is UROC starting from here in a few days...people are going to be running!

(This is such a big thing for me)




Anyway, after making it back up the hill it was pool time and I can honestly say my legs have never been happier. It is such a wonderful way for me to stretch out my muscles and get my legs ready for the day ahead. I took it easy this afternoon, mostly lounging around the house and taking a nice nap before heading back downtown to do a little shopping. Like this morning, the streets were busier and I can't say I am a real fan. The UROC banner is up...and while it is mostly transparent (so as not to hide the beautiful mountain behind it) it is still a very intimidating presence. It almost has me terrified that any of the participants would actually see me running. Why? I don't know. Perhaps it is because I am here working on a dream of mine which is like *teeny tiny* compared to what these guys and gals will be doing in a few days. They probably do what is a huge thing for me before breakfast! Still, I try to remind myself that it is the passion and love of the mountains and trails that bring everyone to the same place...so I guess we are equals when it comes to that.

(The start of some amazing trails)


Once I was back home I hit the trails around 6:00. I was not too worried about losing sun since I knew I was heading quite a bit up hill and had a pretty direct route down. The run was amazing. I will admit, my legs were burning about half way through, but just when I started to crap out I was able to get some incredible views of the mountains. They were right in front of me almost the entire way. All I wanted to do was run to them. It was such motivation. I even came across a lake about 1/2 way up that had the most amazing reflection of both the sunset and the snow covered mountains. It was like something out of a book. I had never felt so alive!! I sat for a while and just soaked it all in...trying to find trails up the hills to the mountains that I could take in the next few days. It was almost heartbreaking when the sun let me know it was time to head back by rapidly setting behind the mountains. Quickly I made my way back down hill (working my quads quite a bit along the way) and arrived home...winded...exhausted...and so happy! As you can imagine, the pool was needed but really did not feel that good. I am skipping the gym tonight and letting my legs rest. My poor calves ache and are sensitive to the touch, so I see some ice and compression in my future.

(Stopped me in my tracks...)

(Lovely trails)



I will probably do the same vertical route for the next few days to really get my legs used to the grade change. I am slowly getting used to the fact that compared to Kentucky, Colorado has no oxygen. Plenty of air...but no oxygen....hehehe :) As for pictures...I took quite a few...just jump on my FB page...I made them public :)

So that is it. I am resting once again...fire place going....door open....blankets on...and soccer on TV! I hope everyone is having a great week! From what I have been reading, Kentucky is having some amazing weather. We got to 59 here and it felt like summer! I can't imagine how long it is going to take to get used to the heat when I get back home. Hey...at least I will be ready to ROCK Bourbon Chase!

Monday, September 23, 2013

Sucking Wind

Isn't it amazing how every time you get a little too confident the Universe is there to knock you down a notch or two!?

For me, this evening's run was the perfect example of that.

(Morning snow)


Now, like I have mentioned...I thought I was doing pretty well with acclimating to the altitude here (not). So much so that today I decided to hit the trails and show them what I was made of. I am pretty sure they got a good laugh because I sucked ass. My pace per mile was normal but I felt like I was running with a small VW Beetle strapped to my chest. What an experience! I have never felt anything like it. I was able to run but boy was I sucking wind! I was literally trying to inhale as deep as I could with each step in some desperate attempt to convince my body that we were back at like 1,000 feet in Lexington. It was an enjoyable EPIC FAIL.

The run totally exhausted me for a while but I was able to come across some pure vertical trail that I totally plan on hitting up in the morning. Straight up the ski slope. While I am pretty sure I am still a few days off before I try Peak 8, I figure this back and forth up the slopes will really help me prepare.

(Yes...the picture sucks...but the trails were awesome!)


After a little while on the trails today, I decided to run back to downtown Breckenridge. I was really surprised that I had the whole town virtually to myself. The sidewalks were almost empty and I can tell you that I was the only one running them. It was kind of nice. I made my way back down to the Vertical Runner to pick up some GUs and try on that UD hydration vest I saw yesterday. I have never run with vest, let alone with one that had hydration bottles on the front. I wish someone was there to take a picture of me...my chest....and hydration bottles strapped to the front of them. It was both amusing and friggin awesome at the same time. I believe the sales guys response was something along the lines of "well...women are mixed on the vest because of the chest...which...as you can see...you have." It was hysterical honesty but the system itself felt really good. I may have to head back down tomorrow and pick it up. $39.99 for the system (which includes two front bottles) is really not a bad price at all! It was the perfect end to the run. I got to hit the run shop AND grab a bottle of wine before heading back home. I am not going to lie...the people I passed thought I was damn amazing running with a shopping bag full of wine ;)

Other than that I plan to hit those vertical trails tomorrow. Thursday's Fun Run is a 4-5 mile trail which will be really really laid back (I was promised by the VR guy) but I still want to be able to stay within sight of the elites, so I am going to work my butt of until then :) For now, I am heading to the gym after finding out that the hamburger I inhaled after my run was fried in bacon grease. It was amazing but I just can't go to sleep knowing my burger was fried in bacon grease and I did nothing about that :)  Actually...I do have a little confession. Being out here in Colorado and being as physically active as I have been in a higher elevation really has me confident about my body and how she can perform. My build and muscles are something I am embracing here and am really not at all self conscious. It is a nice change. I feel my body constantly working and it is something so wonderful I really cannot describe in words. For once my mind is at ease. I really don't think this trip can get any better.....

OH WAIT...and yes...total snow this morning. Most of it is here to stay, as some of the mountain sides don't seem much snow. What a wonderful sight to wake up to. That with a morning hot tub and out door pool swim and I was in heaven!!!

Sunday, September 22, 2013

Mountain Weather - 1 Andi -0

Well...I called it yesterday when I said the weather may keep me from the trails today.

Rain and thunder...*ick*

Now, normally a little rain wouldn't stop me from heading out for a run, but the weather up here in the mountains can be pretty unpredictable at times and the last thing I wanted to do was get stuck up in a higher elevation during a major thunderstorm!

(A morning spent at the pool...staring at this mountain....trying to see the best trails to head up)


Instead, we made the best of the day relaxing and just putzing around. The morning was dedicated to pool time. I got some good lap work in and loved every minute of the 90 degree heated pool outside during a 46 degree morning with rain! Talk about adapting to temperature change. Jump out of hot tub...freeze...hit 90 degree lap pool....relax....and repeat!  The amazing thing about our pool is that we have a view of peaks 8,9 and I believe 10.  Each time we swam out we would look up at the different peaks, deciding which trails would be best and how many practice runs would be required before we tried the total 12,988 feet. In the end we changed our plans a little and decided that peak 8 would be the most enjoyable and feasible during this trip (check out my hot map!)

(Just a hot little map showing ALL my options thanks to the USFS)


After the pool I got to head downtown. I love downtown Breckenridge since it really does remind me of Woodstock, NY.  Of course it was raining with thunder off in the distance but I could care less! The only downside of the whole trip in was that the donut/coffee shop (not the one that opens back up TOMORROW) I was looking for had closed. Figures. They all can't be as cool as North Lime Coffee and Donuts I guess :)

(A little stop on the bridge before hitting downtown)

(I have become obsessed with running past running water :) )




The highlight of the afternoon was a trip in to the Vertical Runner run shop. It has pretty much everything you could need for a good solid week of trail running. They had some of the latest styles Salomon has released as well as Ultimate Direction (including an awesome hydration vest which I may have to pick up!). BUT the BEST THING OF ALL is that they are having a Fun Run this Thursday with Sage Canaday and Max King leading the way!!! People, you can not possible understand how excited I was. I mean, honestly, picture me just trying to suppress my "big expressive eyes" and "random hand gestures" that those close to me have come to love!  Now, UROC is taking off from Breckenridge on Saturday and I believe both are participating...but to have them doing a fun group run?! It is just awesome. They are some of the best in the Ultra Running/Trail Running world and I just about peed myself when I heard this news. It is just cool beyond belief. UROC does not stay in the same place each year, and to have it here....amazing to begin with....but to have the Vertical Runner put this together....just wonderful! I mean...how many people get to just "head out for a run" with some of the best in the sport they love? Argh! So amazing...ok...I have to stop........


(Saw this posted inside the Vertical Runner!)


Anyway, in the end the rain forced me to hit the gym today instead of the trails. I used to hit the gym all the time and loved every minute of it. I was a total gym rat. Tonight...not so much. I got an awesome workout in but it made me realize how much I love running outside. I did the standard cardio on the elliptical and some strength training on the universal. I also tried to run on a treadmill, which was a friggin horrible experience. I eventually had to give up because I could not get a good stride going. Instead, I cranked that b*tch up to an insane incline and power hiked for a while. With winter coming I think I will just purchase more layering gear instead of heading inside for runs.

(Such a wonderful thing...but at the same time...not so much)


So that is about it. I hope to hit the trails tomorrow. For right now I am sitting here in a friggin amazing robe from the spa....with both the patio door open and the fireplace going. Life is wonderful and I am so happy that I get to share this with you all.

OH....AND THERE WAS SNOW TODAY! I went out this evening and saw the beautiful mountains with a good dusting. Severe thunderstorms are expected tonight but perhaps some snow later on. So happy :)

(SNOOOOOOOW!!!)

Saturday, September 21, 2013

The Art Of Breathing

I finally made it to Breckenridge!

(I love the drive to Breckenridge!)

After a day and a half of travel, which included an amazingly uneventful trip through the entire state of Kansas,  I am happy to report that all went well and I am at what I call "The Trail Runner's Crash Pad" safe and sound (and totally unable to breathe.)

(So yeah....Kansas....I70...not a fan)


Acclimating to the elevation change (around 9,600 feet) has been a challenge this afternoon. I know it will take a while but I hate the time it actually takes to feel like you can take a deep breath again. Just lugging things upstairs was a workout...I can't imagine what the trails will bring in the morning! In the end I am looking to make it up to just around 13,000 feet...which is an additional 3,400 feet to get used to after getting used to this initial change! Like I mentioned before...most the pictures may be of the ground ;)

(The start of the climb up out of Denver)


Speaking of trails, they are all around me. I have no idea which one to explore first! I hope it is tomorrow, however, the mountains may have different plans. We are expecting thunderstorms in the morning and afternoon and then snow showers in the evening. I am not a fan of running in thunder and lightening so we will see what it brings. I have to remember I have a wonderful week to explore and appreciate all the beauty around me. If I have to spend the day exploring downtown Breckenridge or just the pool....then that is not a bad thing!

(The view from my porch....)

(My fav (besides West Sixth that is!))



For now I am laying in bed...feeling quite worn down from what I fear is the start of some brutal altitude sickness. The only good thing is my headache went away after a few ibuprofen and Breckenridge Brewery Avalanches :) The time zone change, while only two hours has me all out of wack since I am still running on EST. Not the stellar first night I was expecting of myself (the night itself is great...I am the bummer at this point) but there will be plenty more.

I can't wait to share all this amazing place has to offer! For now, I am going to rest up and hopefully be ready to roll soon! OH...and my toe is doing very well...thank you for asking ;)

Thursday, September 19, 2013

Does Anyone Have A Tranquilizer Dart?

Hey!

Well, look at that...I decided to finally blog after almost two months off!

I know, I suck...

Anyway....THE TIME HAS COME PEOPLE! 

(Well...not THAT much snow...but still :) ) 
Photo credit: Travelsolutions.net


Yup, I am heading off to my place in beautiful Breckenridge, Colorado in the morning. I am so excited. A friend sent me a message letting me know that she saw on the news (she is more towards Boulder) that Breckenridge got snow in the higher elevations last night. That my friends, is a very beautiful thing. Snow on peaks of mountains = very happy Andi.  I have been watching the weather all week and while it is a good 20 degrees cooler then here in Lexington, I was not expecting snow at all. This will make the trips up Peak 8 and Peak 9 interesting. Watch your Instagram..things are about to get real....or just really hysterical. With my history of injury during adventures, you never know what is going to happen :) Either way, I promise to make it worth your while so stay tuned.

Until then, I am busy thinking about packing at some point tonight. As I type this I am looking at my dinning room table and it is covered with nothing but running shoes and hydration packs. I think I own more running clothes than actual dress clothes.  I am also in a state of distress, as I have only been able to locate one of my Salomon running socks and one compression sleeve. I have no clue where their matches went and will now be forced to visit as many running shops as I can in order to replace them! Oh how horrible is that?! ;) 

(The rest of the stuff is upstairs!)


I am also trying to calm my "pre-travel nerves" by drinking as much coffee as humanly possible. You see, I am the world's worst traveler. I don't want to say I "wack out" before vacations...but I "wack out" before vacations. It also does not help that the coolest little coffee place in town is closed Saturday and Sunday. What on earth were they thinking?! I will tell you what they where thinking....they were thinking "Andi is most likely wacking out right now...so let's post on FB that we are going to be closed and send her over the edge".  Well...Cup of Breckenridge....well played...it worked! 

Oh, and speaking of "over the edge"...I am well on my way when it comes to how I think this trip will go. So far I have imagined every "worse case scenario" when it comes to things I may run into on the trails. Snakes, bears, foxes, badgers, wolverines, scorpions, yetis....you name it....I have thought about it.  I can't make this shit up. I know once I get on my way tomorrow I will be fine, but until then I am just an internal nightmare. Now, it may seem like I am nuts...but I really am not. I am just what you would call a "planner." :)

Other than that....in true Andi form, I have managed to injure myself RIGHT BEFORE I leave. Only I would accidentally kick a metal door while wearing flip flops and tear a gash into my big toe. At first I was worried, since when I looked down at the door it had rust all around the bottom...but then I eased up when I remembered that I was still within my 10 year window for my T-shot from back when I accidentally stabbed a pair of scissors through my hand at work while trying to cut a popcorn seed and talk to customers at the same time. (Once again, I can't make this shit up...I have proof in the form of a nice little scar). Now, as you know...there is a 100% chance that I am being over dramatic about this injury...but I am happy to report that the bleeding has finally stopped. Thank G*d I had purchased athletic tape to tape over all the anticipated blisters I will be getting. This band aid is not moving any time soon :)

(My toe....I can't friggin believe it. On the right...the scissor scar...because common...you didn't think it was real...but it is!!!)


Well, that is about it. Tomorrow the journey begins and I am so excited. I am grateful that the rain has stopped. Even though the Breckenridge area did not see as much as other areas, it was heartbreaking to see what all those people were going through. It is so good to see the people and area coming back as strong as ever! Get ready for updates, as I am sure I will be super motivated to share once I get there. I can promise some beautiful trail photos....or a lot of ground photos...depending on how I acclimate to the altitude. Worst case...lots of pictures from the hot tub OF the mountain view :) 

Wish me luck!!!


Thursday, August 8, 2013

"But You're An Animal....Baby It's In Your Nature...."

Hey There!

Yes...I know....I know! Let's just get this little dance over with shall we? (Unless we can do it to "Blurred Lines...then I'm game.)

I'm sorry...I have not been too busy...just not able to get my thoughts together. Yes, Colorado is two months away and I feel like a freshman girl who just walked down the senior high school hallway and saw the entire football team. Excited is not a word that can even be used right now. The Bourbon Chase is coming together nicely and I am studying each leg to see where I will be best suited. All in all...happy running!

But that is not what today's little blog is about...

It is about something on a higher level (oh no...here she goes!) It is about something that brings road and trail running together. It stretches from the city to the mountain. From sea to shinning sea people! (ok...that may be too much)

So here we go!! (brace yourselves...I am jacked!)

Question!

Have you ever had a conversation with someone that leaves you desperately wanting to see things through their eyes and you just can't?!  (don't worry...this has nothing to do with politics!)

Well, I did a few weeks ago and in the end it really opened mine to the world around me and revived my love for running in general, not just trail. It was a conversation with someone who only runs road and it left me trying to figure out what she had against running in nature (as she didn't seem to like it much.) It was a wonderful conversation and I am 100% sure it ended for her when the conversation ended...but for me there was just no way it could!

Now, I will let you know, my first thoughts were justified. I mean...how could someone NOT like what I like? This cannot be happening as I am ALWAYS right! What is WRONG with them? (take it in jest people....you know me)

*Sigh*

The whole conversation left me bothered. Not because this person did not like nature, but because I could not see how she could be so focused on the differences between nature and city life and not acknowledge the similarities. It made me realize how lucky I was to grow up in the part of New York that I did. I had NYC and nature in my backyard, available to me at any moment. All I had to do was pick what my heart desired and I was set.

What the *&$^%*$# am I talking about?

Well...I will show you. I think you will get a kick out of it.

(First picture is from Kilian Jornet's FB page...as you can see it is a mountain and I had to "borrow" it as I do not have this. What I do have is my picture of Columbus, OH. I mean..even the angle is the same...nature above and below....too funny if you ask me. Who says the two aren't alike?!)

(Second picture...safe to say it is an apartment building. The rock formation next to it is from the RRG. Makes me wonder if the guy/gal who designed the building likes to explore and hike ;) )


So by now you are looking at these pictures thinking "Ok...I don't get it" and I get that...but take a closer look. How funny are they? I mean, as animals...how ridiculous are we?! Still nothing? OK....moving on....

What started all this? Well, it seems that at some point during every conversation I have about running the following is said:

 "I can't be in the city...just too much for me"

OR

"I am totally a city guy...nature freaks me out."

REALLY!? What the (*%$@#* do you think Central Park is trying to give you?!

If you ask me, we as humans do nothing but take nature and totally try to control, dominate, and recreate it, without realizing how much we need it on a basic level.

The city pictures shown here were taken during a run in Columbus, Ohio earlier this month. I was not happy to be running there but since the nearest trail was 23 miles away and I did not have that much time to explore, I figured any run was better than nothing. As I took off from the parking lot down the sidewalks I really tried to get into a trail "frame of mind". I wanted so badly to be on the trails and this need left me determined to take something from this city....anything that would give me the same feeling I have when in nature.

And let me tell you, I am so happy I ran and wish I could have taken people who are hesitant to try something different along with me. I would have loved to have taken my "road only" friends on the trails and asked them to compare it to road running. I would love to see if they could pick out some part of the trail and compare it to a spot where they run. I would love even more to have taken my "nature only" friends and made them stand still...close their eyes...think of their favorite place in the world and then look around and see if they can find something in the city that reminded them of it.

Now, you may be laughing but it is truly a wonderful little experiment and I dare you to try it. To realize that we as animals instinctively have the need to remain connected to nature is kind of funny. It gives me hope for humanity after all!

I can't help but smile when I see a large building or skyline on a run.  I wish I could meet some of the architects of these buildings and see if they love mountains and nature. I wonder if they even realize what they are creating. I wonder if they feel the need to be out there and since they are not they are subconsciously recreating that need within city limits. It seems to me like that is what has happened. Or perhaps they love nature and want to bring the beauty of it to those in cities. The beauty of a mountain range is similar to the beauty of a city skyline. The sunrise and sunsets work their magic in the same way...and with the arrival of both, life reacts. Streams run through mountains and provide so much to the surrounding area. Rivers run through many cities and fulfill the same needs. Trails provide passage and entertainment just like the sidewalks, roads, and subway stations do in cities. Animals (especially squirrels and birds) build their nests in trees surrounding each other and humans live in townhouses and apartments. Certain animals come out with the sun and some with the sunset and it is safe to say some humans do the same thing :)

A feeling of sadness comes over me when people make blanket statements about one type of person or another. It is sad because if we all just took time to look at things, we would realize that on a basic level we all get the same wonderful feelings. Some find it in nature and others find it in a recreation of nature. The appreciation for something bigger than ourselves and the need to interact and reconnect with nature on some level...whether it be nature itself or others of our kind is there in most all of us. We all just have to realize and appreciate it in each other.

So next time you go out for a run....run somewhere you would never consider. I am not saying go out and "kill it"....perhaps just go out and explore. Close your eyes and relax, open, and take a look around. You may get a totally different appreciation for what is around you. It may make your running a little more enjoyable or ignite a new fire (just don't go igniting any fires on the trails OK?!) :)

*Steps off soapbox*

So that is about it. I am trying to enjoy everything around me and see it with "new" eyes. I am uber excited about Colorado, as I feel that it really is my "home" on the most basic level, and just as excited for Bourbon Chase, which will be right after.

Oh...and I got one of those "blue balls" (hehehehe...I know...am I 15 or what?!) to roll out all my aches and it is working well. Never did I think sitting on the floor in pain would be so much fun!

Well...until next time...just ignore my grammar and punctuation...remember I write like I talk and I will see you soon! OH...and speaking of that...it has been recommended that I provide an "audio" version on my blogs. Could you EVEN imagine how much fun that would be. Look out...one day it may be live video people!

Beth...I hope there were enough !!! for you...I pretty much screamed the entire blog ;)




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Sunday, July 21, 2013

Can Haruki Murakami Follow Me Through Life Please?

“For me, running is both exercise and a metaphor. Running day after day, piling up the races, bit by bit I raise the bar, and by clearing each level I elevate myself. At least that’s why I’ve put in the effort day after day: to raise my own level. I’m no great runner, by any means. I’m at an ordinary – or perhaps more like mediocre – level. But that’s not the point. The point is whether or not I improved over yesterday. In long-distance running the only opponent you have to beat is yourself, the way you used to be.” 
 Haruki Murakami


"The only opponent you have to beat is yourself, the way you used to be." (This man's words are amazing...he is one of my favorites.)


Well, I am at that point. It is only a matter of weeks before I head out to Colorado and start my final training for the Cruxy 1/2 Marathon on Vail Mountain. I am both excited and frustrated at the same time. My "internal opponent" is trying to defeat me and it is getting harder and harder to cross each training run off the schedule. Doubt and boredom are starting to set in. Frustration is taking over as I suffer through the heat and humidity with no real improvement in sight. Mentally, I am starting to beat myself up by constantly thinking "this is no fun....this sucks." Motivation is difficult to find these days...but I figure I can't be alone on this right?!

*Sigh* Why do I always do this? 

I did this before the RBG 1/2 Marathon and while it was tough for a while, the feeling I had when I crossed the finish line could not be put into words. I know I will do awesome. I know even if I have to hike the whole damn thing I could still come in well under the time limit. I know that the environment will provide all I need to enjoy the race. I know that when I cross that finish line I will most likely fall into familiar and supportive arms that are both proud and excited for me (not to mention well rested since they will blow me out of the water on time!) I know this will be an unforgettable experience. I have worked hard for this....and I need to get excited about it.

So why do I find myself looking at the elevation profile and wanting to give up? Why do I always let my mind take the joy out of what I really want to do? Why do I have this fear of failing when it has never really happened to me before? When I set my mind on something I have always been able to accomplish it. Even on the trail race over the winter when I sprained my ankle...I still finished the race. I should not have this fear of failure since I have not experienced it....OR is that why I have it?

There it is. 
(all the credits are in the bottom corner)


This is not surprising. This is me. I do this all the time (hey...at least I can admit it). Whenever a time of change comes up I fall victim to anxiety. I know I will be fine when I get out there. I know once I get the first few miles down I will fall into a rhythm and be on my way. I know it will trash my legs and hips but when it is over I will wish I could do it a million more times. I know that Colorado and this race are calling me. I know that is where I am meant to be. I know all this. Why can't I just be happy and excited about it?

(Now that I think about it. Here.... here is the link. Feel free to come out and run it. I am sure it will be amazing and we can run it together. That way we can look at each other and literally say "what the f*ck were you thinking!?" and feel better about ourselves once we reach the top and have to spend the next 5 miles of so trying not to blow up on the way down! Plus...it is Colorado and everything is better in Colorado.)

http://www.ultraroc.com/  

OY!  *PIFF*

OK, I have to stop thinking about it. I am a thinker and when thinkers *think* nothing good happens. I have to move on....

Sooooo.....(*que happy dance*)

*TADA*

I got on a Bourbon Chase team!!! How amazing is that?! It is going to be EPIC. If you are sitting anywhere but Kentucky, you probably have no clue what I am talking about. If you are in a foreign country and using google translate...then Bourbon Chase probably has you really lost....so here is the short version: 200 miles...12 team mates....2 vans.....the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Trust me...this is not something to stress over. This is pure fun! Nothing but nature and friends! I am so fortunate to have this opportunity since the two teams that I was going to try to run for did not get picked during the lottery. I have wanted to participate in this ever since I saw friends run it last year! Another thing I can check off my "running bucket" list. One small step closer to WS100 ( if you consider a 200 mile relay with 12 people sharing 2 vans a step closer to a 100 mile individual trail race!)

http://www.bourbonchase.com/

Yes...this blog was kind of "bi-polar" but if I could record the random hand gestures and facial expressions...you would understand. It is the "funky mood" I am in ;)

So that is it. Not much to write about....Cruxy is stressing me out and the BC is making me giddy. Oh... and I got a hammock, which is a very nice thing. What is not so nice is I need a mosquito net around it to be able to last more than 5 minutes. Random? Yes....but very important to everyone who knows me since they know the obsession I have with hammocks. It is also important because I look like I have been sleeping in the jungle. I am covered with friggin bites. It is ridiculous. Do not judge if you see me....judging is not nice. These mosquitoes are no joking matter. Repellent does not repel them. They are mutated I tell you!

My view from my hammock....it is heaven ;)


Well...until next time!





Saturday, July 6, 2013

When Words Fail Me....

That's it people, I give up! 

I have been trying to write for hours and cannot find a way to get the words out! I am beyond frustrated and have no choice but to try something new. I really want to share this lovely day with you, so I am just going to post some pictures and describe a bit about them as we go. Let's hope this works...if not I may just have to make a video and overwhelm you with fast talking, excessive hand gestures and incredible facial expressions....

*Sigh* So anyway, here we go.... (some photos are instagramed....some not so much....)


Yesterday started as any day should....with bribery. When it has been raining for four days straight and you want to go running, I find it is best to bribe people with coffee and donuts to get what you want. North Lime Coffee and Donuts provided the much needed incentive (and sugar) to get out in the rain and head to the Gorge. As you can see, I took a running partner with me. I think I made a wise choice, as he is around 6' ft and averages a good minute or so better per mile. This was good motivation to pick up the speed! Plus, we have very different running techniques...mostly because I come in at a staggering 5'6 and his legs may be twice the length of mine. He also drove...which means I got to play "radio DJ" and force a solid stream of Daft Punk, Bond, David Garrett, Lindsey Stirling, Imagine Dragons and Robin Thicke down his throat. All in all...good start to the day...."Blurred Lines" anyone?! I know you want it ;)


So, here is the view from Auxier Ridge. While it still looks pretty dreary from fire damage, it is starting to make a comeback. I was surprised how many wonderful flowers and berries had popped up since the last time I was there. Even with all the rain, the trails were nice and dry. The one good thing about being 5'6 is that I am not 6' ft and in the path of all the branches a long the way. I got a good clean run and didn't have to duck every 10 ft (unlike some people with me!)


First stop: Haystack. From here you can see clear across the Gorge to Double Arch and to the right, Court House Rock. It is a nice little resting spot. As you can see, the Gorge is pretty sandy up top so the run was still dry and fast. Oh, how that was about to change!


This is right past Courthouse Rock. It is a beautiful area. We actually took time to just scramble and climb around. I love the feeling of being on the rocks, trying to figure out how I am going to get from one point to the next. The gritty feeling on my bare hands....just so natural! Once again, my height was a huge advantage. It is humorous to watch a rather tall individual try to climb. I think it is better suited for "smaller" builds. But, I will admit..I probably did twice the amount of climbing as he did since I could not stretch as far to reach higher rocks. Don't get me wrong...I was offered help...but I did not take it. Reaching out for the hand would be the last resort....I really wanted to do it on my own and I did! It may not be much but I was very proud of my ability to connect with my body and navigate up. It was such a fantastic feeling. To move along the rocks requires every muscle in your body but the views and satisfaction you feel at the end are totally worth it!


Next stop...the jungle? Yeah...four days of rain and the only thing between us and Double Arch was a few miles on the bottom. I had never seen it so muddy. We literally sloshed the whole way through. It was like something off a movie. At one point I accidentally sprayed deet into my mouth and all over my water bottle (which will numb your lips by the way) and still had to constantly swat mosquitoes away. As annoying as that was, it was an enjoyable (although different) experience. It felt like I was making my way through the rain forest...sticky...steamy...birds chirping..squirrels jumping from tree to tree. All around you was the constant reminder of how small a person really is in the grand scheme of things. Was I scared? Nope...one good thing about having someone who is quicker than you along for a run is that they are instant "bear bait", giving you time to head the other direction. They say "all you have to be is faster than the last guy" but I think if you are already behind them, you have an instant advantage when you have to turn and make a quick getaway. (Really...I am joking...or am I? :) ) Anyway, all was going well and we were making great time until......


A M**$%#er F($*%$ing stream!? This picture really does not justify what we ran into. Now, normally this would not be a big deal, but after all the rain it was deep and flowing fast. Not such a good time to be the shorter one. 6' ft was able to casually maneuver from rock to rock with no problem. 5'6 totally drenched. My poor Speedcross...they didn't have a chance in hell of staying dry. The stream came over the whole shoe and I instantly felt cold water seeping into dry socks. For some reason the only thought that came to mind was "trench foot". A few miles to go till Double Arch and already my feet were wet and rubbing blisters. Great...just great....


So there I was....totally exhausted and trying desperately NOT to focus on my soggy feet. It was at that moment I was reminded to "look up when in the Gorge". I did and this was what I saw. The views really are amazing here. To think that the Red River carved all this out is just mind boggling. Nature is such a beautiful beast. She really is the best artist out there. It is so humbling to experience all she is. 


Finally, Double Arch. Such an amazing place to visit. Not only did I get to take my shoes...socks...and insoles off to dry...but I also got to enjoy the views and marvel at how we got from Courthouse Rock to  here! It was such a great training session. 3 hours total with over 2,000 ft of elevation change (stop laughing) but I feel like I experienced so much more. 

Here are a few more pics ;) There are about 30 more on my FB page that can be viewed...I was not going to upload them all here!

The view of Double Arch if you lay on your back ;)

They may never dry out...

Miguels :)



Yes...pulled pork and garlic pizza w/ light sauce ;)

So that is about it. A wonderful training run that I could not put into words for you. I hope you could enjoy this with me. I cannot wait to go back even though I feel like I have been hit by a truck. The grade change throughout the whole thing tore me up but I love the feeling. I also got to do my "good deed of the day" when I was asked to take a lost IPhone back to the trail head. If you know me you know what happened next. Within 2 minutes, I knew her name....her FB status...her last 5 calls.....what her husband looked like and had already tried to reach her at "home". I ended up finding her before I reached the car and she was very happy to say the least ;)  



Finally....while the day was wet and muddy...there are advantages to coming along with me on my little adventures. For one...you get to listen to wonderful music....and in the end I will feed you and give you wine. How can anyone go wrong with that? Fresh cherry tomatoes...dried cranberries...fresh garlic, olive oil and spinach over pasta....YUMS. Oh...and Shiraz anyone?!  Yeah....I see you all lining up ;)

*sigh*....this worked...I feel better!

Till next time!
-Andi