Colleen Posted April 19, 2008 Share Posted April 19, 2008 Didja miss me this week? (Just...say yes.;)) A few of you with good memories were wondering if I ended up doing the half marathon last weekend. The good news is...YES! Mind mastered matter and I lasted 13.1 ~ barely. I've had a really nice week and wanted to share here since some of you have been so faithful in your prayers and encouragement. Last Saturday, while my guys were busy showing cattle at a local 4-H event, I headed down to the GreenFest in Seattle, where I worked at the Organic Valley booth. (Note to self: Remove ski rack from Suburban prior to entering underground parking garage...especially when Dalai Lama is in town and any other available parking involves a capital "T" trek.) I am so not a convention-kinda gal I expected to be positively claustrophobic at this event. And granted, I did long to be outside, given we were blessed with our one day of spring that day. But I have to say, the atmosphere was energizing and the array of information captivating. Very cool. In the evening, I took a ferry over to the island where the marathon was taking place. Thanks to major traffic and ferry delays, I didn't check into my hotel until way late. Missed dinner, got just a few hours of sleep, and went into the race, once again, on nothing but adrenaline. Between that and the stress fracture in my leg, I honestly wasn't sure if I'd go the distance. One of these days I'm going to actually run this race prepared ~ including training on hills. A-a-a-c-c-c-k-k-k-k! I so hate running hills, and this is such a hill-y course. I slacked off altogether and walked a good bit. Didn't come close to finishing in the time I'd hoped. I've been training at 8:30/min miles and ran more like 9:30 miles, but whatever. Who cares that I met up afterwards with an acquaintance in her 50s who finished a full fifteen minutes ahead of me?:001_huh: And so what if I'm now officially sidelined until who knows when? I tried to run yesterday and made it four miles before giving up. Methinks I'm going to have to take a Real Break. The point is, I finished ~ and I appreciate your encouragement. Thank you!:) Hans and the boys met up with me after the run, and then we spent a couple of days hanging out on the island. Messed around the beach and rode bikes a bit ~ nothing major, given the unsettled weather. But it was nice break ~ the first we've had in a long while. And then we deposited the boys with my parents for a night and checked in to a hotel in downtown Seattle. We had a to-die-for meal at a fund raiser dinner hosted by Organic Valley and generally recalled the fact that we actually do enjoy one another. So many of you have been praying for us, and these past few days have literally been an answer to prayer. I feel much more hopeful than I have in a long while. I haven't been putting pictures up at my 365 blog as often as I did last year, but if you're interested in seeing a few from this week, you can check them out at http://www.colleen365.blogspot.com. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Michelle T Posted April 19, 2008 Share Posted April 19, 2008 Finishing a marathon in ANY time is impressive, and you made good time. I thought about you yesterday, bought Organic Valley half and half at our market. Michelle T Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
battlemaiden Posted April 19, 2008 Share Posted April 19, 2008 What an uplifting post Colleen. I'm so glad you Hans got some time together- I have wanted that for you both. I hope your fracture heals well and quickly. :001_smile: Jo Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Heidi @ Mt Hope Posted April 19, 2008 Share Posted April 19, 2008 Thanks for updating us. I am so happy that you've had some answers to prayer! I know you and Hans needed that time together. Will keep up the prayers headed your direction. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Amy loves Bud Posted April 19, 2008 Share Posted April 19, 2008 Sounds like a really wonderful week! I'm so glad. Way to go! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Unicorn. Posted April 19, 2008 Share Posted April 19, 2008 Awww, Colleen, that's just wonderful! I'm so glad you had a great week. Congrats on the race, the familly time, and the ummm, reconnecting time! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
gardenschooler Posted April 19, 2008 Share Posted April 19, 2008 That's wonderful, Colleen. Especially the last part. I'm happy you're happy, and feeling more hopeful. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mamagistra Posted April 19, 2008 Share Posted April 19, 2008 I'm so happy for you! I'll be thinking of you down on the beach next weekend. ;) :D Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Kate CA Posted April 19, 2008 Share Posted April 19, 2008 Oh, Colleen! I am so very happy to read this. God bless your whole family. :) I will be writing soon. :) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Peek a Boo Posted April 19, 2008 Share Posted April 19, 2008 woo hoo!! make sure you run some for me too when you get back to it ;) glad everything's going well! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CookieMonster Posted April 19, 2008 Share Posted April 19, 2008 Way to go and good to hear all the positive things in your life! You're worth it and you deserve it. I'm happy for you. :001_smile: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
JudoMom Posted April 19, 2008 Share Posted April 19, 2008 Didja miss me this week? (Just...say yes.;)) A few of you with good memories were wondering if I ended up doing the half marathon last weekend. The good news is...YES! Mind mastered matter and I lasted 13.1 ~ barely. I've had a really nice week and wanted to share here since some of you have been so faithful in your prayers and encouragement. Last Saturday, while my guys were busy showing cattle at a local 4-H event, I headed down to the GreenFest in Seattle, where I worked at the Organic Valley booth. (Note to self: Remove ski rack from Suburban prior to entering underground parking garage...especially when Dalai Lama is in town and any other available parking involves a capital "T" trek.) I am so not a convention-kinda gal I expected to be positively claustrophobic at this event. And granted, I did long to be outside, given we were blessed with our one day of spring that day. But I have to say, the atmosphere was energizing and the array of information captivating. Very cool. In the evening, I took a ferry over to the island where the marathon was taking place. Thanks to major traffic and ferry delays, I didn't check into my hotel until way late. Missed dinner, got just a few hours of sleep, and went into the race, once again, on nothing but adrenaline. Between that and the stress fracture in my leg, I honestly wasn't sure if I'd go the distance. One of these days I'm going to actually run this race prepared ~ including training on hills. A-a-a-c-c-c-k-k-k-k! I so hate running hills, and this is such a hill-y course. I slacked off altogether and walked a good bit. Didn't come close to finishing in the time I'd hoped. I've been training at 8:30/min miles and ran more like 9:30 miles, but whatever. Who cares that I met up afterwards with an acquaintance in her 50s who finished a full fifteen minutes ahead of me?:001_huh: And so what if I'm now officially sidelined until who knows when? I tried to run yesterday and made it four miles before giving up. Methinks I'm going to have to take a Real Break. The point is, I finished ~ and I appreciate your encouragement. Thank you!:) Hans and the boys met up with me after the run, and then we spent a couple of days hanging out on the island. Messed around the beach and rode bikes a bit ~ nothing major, given the unsettled weather. But it was nice break ~ the first we've had in a long while. And then we deposited the boys with my parents for a night and checked in to a hotel in downtown Seattle. We had a to-die-for meal at a fund raiser dinner hosted by Organic Valley and generally recalled the fact that we actually do enjoy one another. So many of you have been praying for us, and these past few days have literally been an answer to prayer. I feel much more hopeful than I have in a long while. I haven't been putting pictures up at my 365 blog as often as I did last year, but if you're interested in seeing a few from this week, you can check them out at http://www.colleen365.blogspot.com. Oh, Colleen. I'm so happy! This is a wonderful post to wake up to, and I will continue to pray. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
runningirl71 Posted April 19, 2008 Share Posted April 19, 2008 I'm a newbie here but just had to say WAY TO GO on running that marathon! Wow! My dream is to run in the Chicago marathon, but I don't know . . . You are inspiring! I'm actually in training to participate in a mini triathalon in June. I was getting discouraged this week, so glad I came across your post! Helps me to see the light at the end of the tunnel! Cheers! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jackie in AR Posted April 19, 2008 Share Posted April 19, 2008 So glad to hear that you and Hans spent some nice time together. I hope your fracture heals quickly! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Lizzie in Ma Posted April 19, 2008 Share Posted April 19, 2008 I am so happy you had a nice week. Congratulations on the marathon, you rock! Glad you got in some quality time with Hans. Blessings Lizzie Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jennifer in MI Posted April 19, 2008 Share Posted April 19, 2008 Great job Colleen!!! And, yes, I was wondering where you were! I'm so glad you decided to run. And, I'm impressed that after a weekend like that you were able to get out and run four miles today!! (For now, my long run is four miles and I'm training to run the 1/2 marathon next January!) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Cindy in FL. Posted April 19, 2008 Share Posted April 19, 2008 You go, girl! Glad to hear that you had such a great time. Sounds like it was a winner for your whole family. Cindy Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Sharon in SC Posted April 19, 2008 Share Posted April 19, 2008 Colleen, thanks for sharing the pics of Whidbey Island! Did you say, "Hello", to my uncle for me?! ;-P I've never been out there and it was so nice to see your pics. Also, I rejoice with you in an overall *good* week for your family! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Halftime Hope Posted April 19, 2008 Share Posted April 19, 2008 Colleen, I'm so happy for you, Hans and your family! Aren't those reconnecting, "all is well" times wonderful--they sure help motivate and give me the courage to keep *working* on the relationship! I've seen first hand the devastation that is wreaked on entire families when couples just give up and settle for a stand-off, so I keep working. Sending very best wishes to you and yours, Valerie Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jenny in Atl Posted April 19, 2008 Share Posted April 19, 2008 The pictures were beautiful. I loved the lighthouse and the pix of Seattle. Thanks for sharing. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
*anj* Posted April 19, 2008 Share Posted April 19, 2008 Excellent report!! I'm really happy for you on all accounts. Well, I'm not happy about your injury, but you know what I mean! Rest up, hausfrau!! :D Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jean in Newcastle Posted April 19, 2008 Share Posted April 19, 2008 Great news on many fronts, Colleen. Way to go on the marathon even with the injuries. Now rest up! And I'm glad that you got to get away as a family and as a couple. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Colleen Posted April 19, 2008 Author Share Posted April 19, 2008 Colleen, thanks for sharing the pics of Whidbey Island! Did you say, "Hello", to my uncle for me?! ;-P Yep, I thought about you. I so hope you and your family have a chance to experience, sooner or later, the beauty of this area.:) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Colleen Posted April 19, 2008 Author Share Posted April 19, 2008 For now, my long run is four miles and I'm training to run the 1/2 marathon next January! Last I heard, you were just getting back into the running groove. That's great that you have your eye on a running a half; is it in Michigan? You seem to be a natural at running (unlike some of us...ahem!), so I bet it'll be a piece of cake. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Kay in Cal Posted April 19, 2008 Share Posted April 19, 2008 I missed you! Glad you had such a wonderful time! It's good to "hear" you so upbeat! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Colleen Posted April 19, 2008 Author Share Posted April 19, 2008 I feel compelled, after reading your kind replies, to reiterate that I only ran the half marathon. No way, no how could I tough out a full 26.2 miles. For years, running a marathon was one of my BHAGs (Big Hairy Audacious Goals), but I've scaled back. I honestly don't know that I ever want to devote that much time to training ~ or that I have the physical stamina. But who knows...! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jennifer in MI Posted April 19, 2008 Share Posted April 19, 2008 Last I heard, you were just getting back into the running groove. That's great that you have your eye on a running a half; is it in Michigan? You seem to be a natural at running (unlike some of us...ahem!), so I bet it'll be a piece of cake. LOL Apparently I make myself out to sound better than I am!! I ran in HS and college and haven't much since. I've worked out during that intermission from running though. My 4 mile is a walk/run and I finish in about 40 minutes. So, I'm not very fast!! The 1/2 marathon that I'd like to run is in FL - it's the one at Disney! We were there this year and I just loved the atmosphere (I didn't run). I actually met someone from these boards who ran it while we were there! It was so awesome to connect with someone like that! We'll be down there anyway and I figured I should give it a try. Now I just need to figure out exactly how I'm going to train here in MI when the temp dips below freezing. That's just too cold for me to be outside running! Anyway, great job again! And, I LOVE your pictures! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Colleen Posted April 19, 2008 Author Share Posted April 19, 2008 Apparently I make myself out to sound better than I am!! I ran in HS and college and haven't much since. I've worked out during that intermission from running though. My 4 mile is a walk/run and I finish in about 40 minutes. So, I'm not very fast!! I just mean, you're the type who can get back into it and pick up pace pretty quickly. A heckuvva lotta people covet ten minute miles! The best (in terms of time) race I've ever had was a 24:50 5K, but I'm happy to keep a 9 min/mile pace in longer races. I try to be satisfied with just crossing the finish line and not worry about my time, but trying to improve my pace gives me the motivation I need to keep on keeping on. The 1/2 marathon that I'd like to run is in FL - it's the one at Disney! Aha! I was wondering why you'd aim for a half marathon in Michigan's January temps!:tongue_smilie: Anyway, great job again! And, I LOVE your pictures! Thanks so much! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Denise in IN Posted April 19, 2008 Share Posted April 19, 2008 It's good to see you back! Congrats on finishing the race. 13.1 miles is about...oh, say 13 miles farther than I could run right now. :001_unsure: I'm so glad to hear that you had some time away with your family and with Hans. The pictures on your blog are beautiful - love the beach! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
WTMindy Posted April 19, 2008 Share Posted April 19, 2008 So great to hear you upbeat! I remember the last time you ran the marathon, you were very discouraged afterwards. I'm glad you and Hans had some good time also. It sounds like a much needed break for y'all!!!! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Kelli in TN Posted April 19, 2008 Share Posted April 19, 2008 And then we deposited the boys with my parents for a night and checked in to a hotel in downtown Seattle. We had a to-die-for meal at a fund raiser dinner hosted by Organic Valley and generally recalled the fact that we actually do enjoy one another. So many of you have been praying for us, and these past few days have literally been an answer to prayer. I feel much more hopeful than I have in a long while. ]. Call me a shmuck, but I am seriously sitting here with eyes watering over this part of your post. Yay you. Yay Hans. Yay God. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jennifer in MI Posted April 19, 2008 Share Posted April 19, 2008 The best (in terms of time) race I've ever had was a 24:50 5K, but I'm happy to keep a 9 min/mile pace in longer races. I try to be satisfied with just crossing the finish line and not worry about my time, but trying to improve my pace gives me the motivation I need to keep on keeping on. ! That's an awesome time!!! Congrats!! I'm hoping to run a 5K in July and I'd love to finish in that time. (In high school I used to be able to do it in under 20 minutes. Now, I'd be happy to finish in 30!!!) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
5kidsforME Posted April 19, 2008 Share Posted April 19, 2008 Didja miss me this week? (Just...say yes.;)) A few of you with good memories were wondering if I ended up doing the half marathon last weekend. The good news is...YES! Mind mastered matter and I lasted 13.1 ~ barely. I've had a really nice week and wanted to share here since some of you have been so faithful in your prayers and encouragement. Last Saturday, while my guys were busy showing cattle at a local 4-H event, I headed down to the GreenFest in Seattle, where I worked at the Organic Valley booth. (Note to self: Remove ski rack from Suburban prior to entering underground parking garage...especially when Dalai Lama is in town and any other available parking involves a capital "T" trek.) I am so not a convention-kinda gal I expected to be positively claustrophobic at this event. And granted, I did long to be outside, given we were blessed with our one day of spring that day. But I have to say, the atmosphere was energizing and the array of information captivating. Very cool. In the evening, I took a ferry over to the island where the marathon was taking place. Thanks to major traffic and ferry delays, I didn't check into my hotel until way late. Missed dinner, got just a few hours of sleep, and went into the race, once again, on nothing but adrenaline. Between that and the stress fracture in my leg, I honestly wasn't sure if I'd go the distance. One of these days I'm going to actually run this race prepared ~ including training on hills. A-a-a-c-c-c-k-k-k-k! I so hate running hills, and this is such a hill-y course. I slacked off altogether and walked a good bit. Didn't come close to finishing in the time I'd hoped. I've been training at 8:30/min miles and ran more like 9:30 miles, but whatever. Who cares that I met up afterwards with an acquaintance in her 50s who finished a full fifteen minutes ahead of me?:001_huh: And so what if I'm now officially sidelined until who knows when? I tried to run yesterday and made it four miles before giving up. Methinks I'm going to have to take a Real Break. The point is, I finished ~ and I appreciate your encouragement. Thank you!:) Hans and the boys met up with me after the run, and then we spent a couple of days hanging out on the island. Messed around the beach and rode bikes a bit ~ nothing major, given the unsettled weather. But it was nice break ~ the first we've had in a long while. And then we deposited the boys with my parents for a night and checked in to a hotel in downtown Seattle. We had a to-die-for meal at a fund raiser dinner hosted by Organic Valley and generally recalled the fact that we actually do enjoy one another. So many of you have been praying for us, and these past few days have literally been an answer to prayer. I feel much more hopeful than I have in a long while. I haven't been putting pictures up at my 365 blog as often as I did last year, but if you're interested in seeing a few from this week, you can check them out at www.colleen365.blogspot.com. Well Colleen I know I have missed seeing you around here! I am very impressed with your marathon run and time. I couldn't do it the shape I am in :glare:. So happy for you and Hans! I am sure that special time has been very uplifiting to you both. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Barb_ Posted April 20, 2008 Share Posted April 20, 2008 Wow, your post was a like a sigh of relief this morning. So glad to hear of your lovely weekend. Barb Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Amy in Orlando Posted April 20, 2008 Share Posted April 20, 2008 It's great to read a post like this from you, Colleen! I'm so happy you had a good week - congrats on the 1/2 marathon and especially on starting to reconnect with Hans. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Elaine Posted April 20, 2008 Share Posted April 20, 2008 ((Colleen)) I am so happy to hear this news! Awesome job on the race. You rock, girl!:D Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
PariSarah Posted April 20, 2008 Share Posted April 20, 2008 This was a pleasure to read this morning. I'm glad for you. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
bkpan Posted April 20, 2008 Share Posted April 20, 2008 Call me a shmuck, but I am seriously sitting here with eyes watering over this part of your post. Yay you. Yay Hans. Yay God. Happy for you, Colleen. Kim in TN (used to be in NV) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.