Junior Pace Setters for My Long Run!!!

Today was the final long run of my training program for the Calgary marathon. I always say, running seems to be a solo sport, but really, it is next to IMPOSSIBLE without a support crew.  This run was no exception and to help keep me going, the girls all agreed to ride their bikes on portions of the 32 kilometer run.

Kimbers took the first leg: km 1 - 10. This is the second time she has ridden her bike that far and today she did not dissapoint.  Topics discussed as we traveled:
  - Why do we stay on the right side of the path??
  - Why do trail tressles smell so good??
  - How do you get shoe laces unwrapped from bike peddles??
  - Do monsters get sick??
  - Why do I ride my bike into the bushes when I look back or into the woods??

Nicole was waiting at the house when we got back from the first leg. I refilled my water bottle and topped up my supply of dates, and we hit the trail.  Once again, the conversation did not disapoint:
  - Where is the 10 kilometer long hill Kimbers said she road up??
  - Do spiders get headaches??
  - Why do trail trestles smell so bad??
  - Why do I have to stay on the right side of the trail??
  - Why is Kimberly so strong??

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I forgot to take a selfie of Autumn, so we did a Facebook video when we completed the third leg, from kilometer 20 to 32.  Im must admit, I was in a bit of a selfish state.  My muscles started to fatigue and there were sensations of chafing in less than desireable places.....but the conversations continued:
  - How do I change gears on my bike again??
  - Why do I have to stay on the right side of a trail, its not like we a driving in a car??
  - How do you play Frisbee Golf??
  - Why do all the bugs come out at night??

I must admit, most of these questions still have not been answered...and some never WILL be answered.  Usually, in the lull when I was breathing rather than talking, another question would be asked!! But at least I will have LOTS to ponder while I run my 42 km race.....why do I have such amazing girls??


 

Sock Testing Run

Summer is definitly here!!!  Bugs were getting stuck to my sweaty forehead....that is a sure sign!!!

Tonight was scheduled as a 10 km steady run with an average pace of 6:45.  I started a bit faster pace, just under 6:00.  The run just felt good!!!  I ran what felt right to my body and finished with a 6:29 pace. I wish wish I could have gone farther.

I tried something different tonight and didnt wear my usual compressions socks.  It was just to see how my calves and feet would respond.

I first noticed that my heel had a lot more movement in my shoe (which is not a good thing!!!).  I also noticed this the other day when I wore my Wright Socks.  My calves feel fine but and Im guessing they will still be good tomorrow.

These short runs are fun to try out different things....but lesson learned today - WEAR compressions socks with these shoes!!!

New Running Partner

Kimber's was sure she could ride her bike 6 km tonight but wanted to go the full 10 km if she could make it. I told her is she could make it all the way up the first hill without stopping, we would go 10 km.

Well, she made it so we pushed on to the 5 km mark where we turned around and headed home.

I think she is better suited for my long runs when I am supposed to be able to talk the whole time. It was a challenge discussing her random topics when I was running a 5:30 pace.  Luckily, she needed help getting up some of the bigger hills so I would push/pull her bike up the hill while I answered her questions and tried to catch my breath.

As we neared home and I started walking after the 10 km mark, she comented confidently, that she is pretty sure that she can ride with me on my 32 km run this weekend. I dont want to disapoint her, but I think Ill run alone....I dont think I can talk THAT much, even on my slow runs!!!