Keeping My Sense of Humor and Learning Something

Posted on July 25, 2013 by PattyRan

No Pain, No Gain? Whatever! Sure, working out consistently is hard, makes me sweat, stink, moan, and curse, but it also makes me laugh my head off. Ever since I made the conscious decision that I was going to become a legitimate athlete, I have learned to wallow in the fact that I have a very sick and silly sense of humor. Sometimes (well, more than sometimes, actually) it is very ill timed and inappropriate, too. Hey, if you can’t learn to laugh, you’re doomed.

Recently I had a terrible bike accident. While this wasn’t funny at the time, I found it to be both fascinating and humorous later on. And because of it, I learned a valuable and useful lesson!

After the pot hole, the skid

Two weeks after this happened, I rode back to the exact spot to do some forensics. I was actually proud that my skid mark was still there! I even was able to see the trail I took that lead to my flop over the embankment. EPIC!!! Of course I took several photos because I am a sicko.

You can kind of see my tire tracks as they lead to the abyss. I wish I had a video of my going over that cliff-it would have been hysterical. (Except for the Stinging Nettle part) I’m certain that I looked like a rag doll flopping through the air. No “tuck and roll” for me-I was flat out flying and landed in a splat; upside down and tangled.

Two weeks later, I returned to the same bike path to test my nerve and re trace my ride. As part of this memorial training ride, I added additional miles and stopped at the Information Center at Stub Stewart State Park. I learned that if you get Stinging Nettles in you, you can use the underside of a common fern to ease the pain. Who knew? (Apparently the Ranger knew)

Brush the brown leave-underside of the fern on the pain.

I have decided to add fern leaves to my fuel belt-just in case. I suppose if I wrapped myself in them, I could have something to cushion my fall the next time, too. It was too coincidental that the Park Ranger was talking to someone about this just as we rode up to the Center. HMMM, maybe it’s a common problem in these here parts.

I learned another thing that that day that I probably already knew. Working out makes me STINK. I mean, really! Sure, it was a warm day and I rode 22 miles at a Tour de France pace and all, but I shutter to think what is going on inside my body to produce such vile stank! I remember when I was a newbie runner four years ago. Sometimes I actually showered before going to training runs and races. HA! Now, I see the idiocy in that. Maybe it’s the Dry Fit clothing? Could it be the Tapitio Doritos that I am having an affair with? The hummus I consume by the barge full? Who knows? Who cares, it’s funny! (Oh don’t turn your nose up, you stink too) Thank God most of my workouts involve the outdoors and fresh air or I would have no friends.

I actually Googled this and found out that sweat doesn’t really stink! It’s the bacteria that bacteria that feeds on your sweat that causes the stink. Or so the experts say. I may have to start re-evaluating my diet. Naaa.

Today on a run, I learned that the shoes I have been experimenting with are not going to make the cut. Recurring blisters suck big time. This is not funny. I have spent 5 months looking for the perfect running shoe that will work for my Shrek feet. If you’ve read some of my earlier blogs, you can learn about my darling feet. Fat, gnarly feet. Athletic shoe companies do not use feet like mine for their fit models, trust me. I have run my way through four different brands this year and am pretty sure I have found the one shoe that will be my favorite. I just need a little more time with them before I tell you about it.

Do you have challenges with athletic wear? What have you learned during your training sessions? I’d love to hear what you have overcome. It inspires me. Thanks for stopping by.

Saved by a Bicycle Helmet

Posted on July 10, 2013 by PattyRan

Life is precious. How many times have we heard this before? As cliché as it may sound, it is true. Just ask anyone that has experienced a close call, and they will echo this sentiment. My recent brush with death, (or at least with a world class maiming) happened on July 5, 2013.

Like many people, when the 4th of July Holiday weekend rolled around, I sought the solitude of a good vacation spot, to get away from the rigors of my daily routine. For me, there was no doubt but to head to our “cabin” on the Nehalem River, in Vernonia, Oregon. The weather promised to be warm, sunny, and beautiful, so we packed our trusted 4 legged companions in the truck (along with everything else we could fit) and headed out to paradise.

Lizzy looks like a ghost here

Mid morning on July 5th, Tony and I headed out for a nice training ride on our bicycles, along the Banks-Vernonia State Trail. This is a beautiful 21 mile paved bike path with 13 wooden bridges, lots of hills, trees, streams, and glorious scenery. We warmed up and started riding strong as we approached the planned turn-around point at Hill Top. For the next three or so miles, we flew along at a steady 20 mph pace, having the time of our lives. By now we were 9 miles into our ride, and COOKING! I had just moved into the lead position a mile back, and was in the zone. I’d never ridden this fast for any sustained period before. Well, things changed in a heartbeat. (And could have ended there)

I hit a hole in the asphalt that I didn’t see because we were in a shady area, and I think it was covered with a thin film of moss. My front wheel exploded to the right, and the bike started zig zagging back and forth at an alarming and uncontrollable pace. I quickly realized that there was no way I could regain control and I knew I was going down. I knew that if I went down on this asphalt, there most certainly would NOT be a good outcome. I do not like pain. I especially do not like when my bones are sticking out of my flesh. I took immediate evasive action!

Berry bushes, Nettles, and fallen branches make a nice bed.

I managed to steer the momentum of my bike toward the outside of the path and onto the softer shoulder, so that when I fell, I would be on a more appealing surface. What I didn’t realize, however, was that the surface contained plants that were covered in thorns, nettles, and every prickly thing you could imagine. PLUS, the thick growth hid the fact that there was a cliff and a ravine under those vines! Like a rag doll, I flew off my bike, into the foliage, and over the ravine. As I was tumbling, hitting my head, and more or less waiting for whatever the outcome was, I heard (aside from my own cursing) a skid, crash, thump, and load moan from my husband. What the HELL???? Why did HE fall?

Upon hearing his crash, I jumped up to get to him and see if he was alright. Of course, I forgot that I had just careened head first over a cliff and had to stop myself for a few seconds and let the dizziness subside. Plus, I had to take stock and make sure all my bones were still encased safely inside my skin. Thankfully, they were. The prickers and thistles had their way with me though.

OUCH, talk about painful. Look at all the swollen bumps and scratches!

I climbed up the hill and onto the bike path and ran to Tony, who was still laying on the side of the path. Not moving. Still. Immobile. I asked him if he was ok, and he said he didn’t know yet, but still wasn’t moving. Finally I saw him move his arms and legs and I knew at least he wasn’t paralyzed! At this point, I started running around in circles. This is what I do when I am on the verge of panic. “What can I do for you?” “Can you move your legs?” “Can you speak?” “Can you talk?” “Do you want me to call an ambulance?” I am sure if he had his wits about him, he would have told me to SHUT UP A MINUTE!

I ran back to my bike, and retrieved my phone, just in case I needed to call 9-11. As I ran back to him, I had this (rediculous) thought that I should take his picture in case I needed it for evidence or insurance…..huh? Really??? I know this makes no sense, but I did just fly off my bike and hit my head, so I am not judging my actions in any way. Her’s what he looked like:

He landed more than 12 feet from his downed bike and rolled off the asphalt

For what seemed like an eternity, he laid there, waiting for his body to tell him it was ok to get up, and I helped him take off his helmet and sit up. We both sat there and took stock of our injuries. We were both bleeding and dazed, but overall, we could stand up, walk, and pretty much function. I was amazed. I ran back and got my bike out of the bushes and saw that, other than a broken front brake, it seemed to be rideable. His was too. Since we were still four miles from our cabin, and we couldn’t spend the rest of the weekend on the bike path, we decided to ride back. It was not the most comfortable ride, to say the least.

Once we got back, we both showered and that’s when Tony said he needed to go to the hospital. It is a 40 minute drive to the nearest Urgent Care facility, and after waiting there for an hour, we got in to see a doctor. He started examining Tony and decided that he needed to go to the Emergency Room at the FULL hospital down the freeway. SO, we packed up our aching bodies and headed out. AGAIN.

Five hours later, after X Rays and exams, we left, armed with prescriptions for Valium and Oxycodone, and a bottle of Lidocane. Diagnosis: concussions, and a cracked clavicle (Tony). I had the remnants of all those nettles in my, so for about 9 hours, I had the sensation of fire ants crawling all over me and biting me. FIRE! The whole day seemed surreal to me.

The meds helped us sleep (Oh boy, did they!), and the next day, we both felt a lot better. Then I looked at our helmets.

Glad I was wearing this!

Tony’s cracked in two places.

Suffice it to say, we were both very happy to be alive, recovering, and saved by our helmets. We spent a lot of time over the next few days recounting what had happened, and how “lucky” we were that things didn’t end up differently. In a heartbeat things can change. We still don’t quite know how we managed to walk away so unharmed! All I can tell you is that if you ever go for a bike ride. Wear your helmet!

Emotional Workouts

Posted on June 22, 2013 by PattyRan

To describe the events of the past few weeks would require many hours and countless visits to the online Thesaurus. I don’t recall a time when so many things happened in such a short period. The good, the bad, and the BEST! Through it all, I managed to stay alive, although my composure suffered a bit.

To spill the beans on the source of all the excitement….MY DAUGHTER GOT MARRIED! This was a good thing, no, A GREAT THING! I couldn’t be happier.

Best kiss eva

To celebrate the event, my entire clan drove or flew into Portland from 7 different states. This is the first time we have all been together-all at the same time in 17 years.We are a damned good looking family, if I do say so myself. The wedding went off without a hitch, which was a giant relief. We all had so much fun, and the party afterwards was memorable, to say the least. With all the dancing, my feet hurt for days.

The weeks leading up to the wedding were full of emotion, activity, details, and all sorts of stressful moments. I wouldn’t have changed a thing, though, except for the gallons of my shed tears. I often wondered how Mother’s of the Brides survived the ceremonies without large doses of prescription medications. I opted against that plan, although I did stock up on “mother’s little helpers” just in case. I chose to let my workouts do my therapy. Let the good times roll, baby. There’s nothing like a grown woman, sobbing while running her zone 2 work out. Yep, it happened.

One week before the wedding, I was completely out of my mind. I thought I was keeping a level head about the whole thing, but I still had to make my daughter’s veil, print the programs and seating cards, organize the balloon decoration delivery, fill 140 bags with candy, fix the hem on MY dress, make all of the flower centerpieces, AND the 7 bridal bouquets. All of this while working 10-12 hour days, and trying to fit in my workouts. Did I also mention that my large family started to arrive? Bodies in every bedroom? Washer and dryer running around the clock? Family members ages 4-80 crawling all over my house? Woohoo, Calgon, take me away.

I had one particularly difficult run that pretty much turned into my emotional breakdown of the century. I was out for a 1 hour run, in a zone 2 heart rate, with surges every 20 minutes. The first 20 minutes went fine. The next 10 were horrible, and by 35 minutes, I found myself on the bike path near my house, in full out sobbing mode. We’re talking hiccups and everything. there was no stopping me.

Oh yeah, full on, snot bubbling, choking tears

I didn’t even care what I looked like. People started swerving around me-it was that bad. This lasted until around 40 minutes, and by 45 minutes, I had given up all hope of running, and walked the last mile or so home. I repeated this one other time that week, much to my disgrace and embarrassment. I survived that day, and enlisted the help of my numerous sisters to lighten the load and get things done. Thank God for sisters…and mothers. My mom was always there asking what she could do to help. My family is amazing.

This week, I can feel the stress moving further away from me, as the wedding is over, the bride and groom are happy, and everyone traveled safely back to their respective homes. I did take 3 days off from my grueling work out schedule, but I am back now, abusing my body with Kettlebell, swim, run, and bike workouts. Today was a particularly hard run, but once it was over, I celebrated my success with a trip to the farmer’s market. Fresh Raspberries will always make you feel happy to be alive.

There are so many more things to write about regarding this wedding and the visit from my family, but right now, I am still basking in the utmost satisfaction of all the love that filled my house last week. That kind of love is meant to be swallowed up and hugged tight. The memories are many, the tears still come, but they are tears of the overabundance of gratitude and unconditional love for a very large group of eccentric, silly, and wonderful people.A big THANKS to my mom and dad for having all of us!

I Tried a Tri

Posted on June 3, 2013 by PattyRan

It’s a funny thing when you accidentally venture into uncharted “waters”. Last December, when I was diagnosed with 2 torn tendons, a torn muscle, and a few other torn things that I can’t pronounce, I anxiously awaited my first Physical Therapy appointment. I was told to immediately stop running, and in fact, “Don’t walk any further than you have to.”

Once PT started, I was both devastated at the fact that I was done running for several weeks, and elated that I could at least bike and swim. Thankfully, I could “feed the beast” that was my need to exercise! I rushed off to find an indoor pool that had a temperature I could endure. I’m a bit of a wimp when it comes to being cold, so there was no way I was going back to my old 24 Hour Fitness Club. THAT water was frigid!

I found a pool that had nice warm water, and started working out once or twice a week. Boy, it felt good to swim again after so many years. I also go t my bike out of the garage and figured out how to ride it after several mishaps. Being January and all, I would have to say that the first several weeks of riding was a bit of a challenge.

January bike attire in Oregon for the “Non-cyclist” Yes, those are snow pants and boots.

Oh yeah, now, THIS is a fashion statement. I rode 19 miles round trip to a Pt appointment in the freezing rain. I was smart enough to bring a change of clothes for the ride home.

Let’s just say that I was desperate enough to do anything that would get my blood pumping, and since running was out of the question, I got out and did what I could do! A few weeks into this cross training, I had a crazy thought and started researching Triathlons. What the Hell? As of one year earlier, I hadn’t run more than around 6 miles at a time, and by now, I had 2 marathons, and numerous 10K’s and half marathons under my belt. Why not a tri?

I searched online and found a Sprint Triathlon in McMinnville, Or. This event was on June 1st, so I had almost 5 months to train for it. I signed up immediately, without a second thought. Off I went to the Sporting Goods Store to find a legit swim suit, and managed to buy one that I didn’t hate. (Have you ever tried those swim suits on? They are tight, short, and torturous)

My tri training went well for a few weeks, until I was able to start running again, Then the obsessed runner emerged and swimming and biking went out the window for about 2 months. I dove (hehehe) headfirst back into running and ended up completing 4 half marathons in 6 weeks. This was not the smartest thing I have ever done, because by the last one, I was barely able to walk the last few miles, due to the recurring injury I had exacerbated. Stupid over training again. Oh, when will I learn?

Fast forward to the weekend of the tri. I had studied up on the methodology of preparation. I had researched all the things I needed to bring, prepare, have on hand, and I packed my transition bags so that I would look like a pro! Well, not really. I had plastic grocery bags and a large “pine scented” kitchen garbage bag holding all of my transition items. HEY, at least MY area didn’t stink! The only thing I didn’t prepare for was getting sick. I caught a nasty cold 6 days before the event, and was pretty much in denial the whole week.

When I woke up on the morning of my inaugural triathlon, I had a sinus headache and was coughing up thick green crap. (Sorry). For several moments, I sat in my hotel room and contemplated driving home. BUT, I rallied and thought, “What the Hell.” Off I went.

Fortunately, the parking was easy and there were only about 200 athletes in this whole event. The facility was fantastic, and I never even had to wait in a bathroom line! It was raining when I arrived, so I was glad I had the handy plastic bags to lay out by my bike in the corral.I met some great people while waiting for my heat and the friendly conversation kept my nerves at bay. I had this picture taken about an hour before the race began.When I got in the pool at 9:35am for my start, I was in a lane with 3 guys. The rules say that if you want to pass a swimmer, you are supposed to tap them on the foot and they they should wait at the end of the lane so you can pass. We started our swim and warmed up in the first 100 or so yards. Once we found our own rhythm our paces started to differ. Someone tapped my foot, so I waited and let him pass. Then I tapped the foot of the slug that was in front of me and he must not have wanted the only chick in the lane to pass him because he never did stop and allow me to pass. There was no way to pass him while swimming because there were people coming the other way, so I just hung back and followed him. I nearly drowned from having to swim so slowly. There were moments when I fantasized about grabbing his legs and pulling him under, but I kept my cool. I started stopping in the shallow end and waiting until he got a ways down the lane, just so I could get a few legitimate strokes in. LESSON: If you are going to enter an event where you are asked to estimate your swim time, PLEASE make sure you actually KNOW that time, and put yourself in the appropriate lane! 11:56 had passed by the time I got out of the pool.

The transition to the bike went pretty smoothly, once I got my socks and shoes on. Off I went for the supposedly flat out and back. The “OUT” was mostly flat and downhill, and some of the hills were long and more steep than the description read, so I was not looking forward tot he ride back. I threw all caution to the wind and just barreled through the ride. I ended up averaging almost 17 mph, which is faster than I had ever trained. I felt strong and unbeatable! A few times the voices in my head told me to slow down, because I was going to burn out my legs for the run, but I kept screaming back at those voices, “Who cares, I can walk the 5K! I’m on FIRE here!!!”

Back at the corral, I slapped my bike back into place, and tore out to do the run. This part was tough now, because my throat was closing and my lungs finally felt the morning’s effort. “It’s only 3.1 miles Patty. You can do this in your sleep.” I kept giving myself pep talks all the way. I knew there was water at the turn around, and in my haste, I had forgotten to grab the hand held water bottle I had packed. This was not good. I managed to keep a steady pace all the way through the run and finished strong, despite the fact that I now felt like I needed a hospital, or at least an oxygen mask. I had these two pictures taken just after I finished.

Feeling strong and so elated that I did this.

Never miss the chance to “Badger up” at a race.

I had to hurry up and leave right after the race because of another commitment, so I didn’t stick around for the fun festivities. The next morning, I got an email with the results, and to my all time shock and awe, I had taken first place in my division! I can’t wait for my medal.

I will definitely do another triathlon. Next time I hope to be healthy, so I can see what this old body is really capable of! Go ahead and sign yourself up for one of these. Woot woot, it is a blast!

Do You Think the Rain Will Hurt the Rhubarb?

Posted on May 27, 2013 by PattyRan

When I was a kid, my parents had this silly expression that they would often use when it rained. It was actually a question and answer, and although we had no idea what it meant, my siblings and I always laughed at it. We knew it was something corny and “eye rolling”, and liked to be the first one to say it during a rainy day. Q. “Do you think the rain will hurt the rhubarb? A.“Not if it’s in cans!”. Now really, what the heck? We didn’t eat rhubarb while I was growing up. Truth be told, I STILL have never eaten it. Rhubarb was a “weed” in our backyard and I just haven’t been able to make myself eat it. But, THANK GOD the rain never hurt it! HUH?

Watching the rain pour down this morning,I thought back to the times we’d say this back and forth to each other, and I discovered the simple lesson in the saying. I am the rhubarb, and the rain will NOT hurt me.

This year brought a whirlwind of change, challenge, and championship. I was sidelined with injuries for 3 months, experienced a sudden exponential increase in my business activity, one of my children turned 30, another is getting married in three weeks, I ran numerous races while struggling with pain, I started this blog, I hired a stylist to overhaul my wardrobe, and in one week, I will do my first ever triathlon. Oh yeah, and I participated in my first every music video. (One might say the pressure got to me….or perhaps it’s a mid life crisis….”Poor Patty, she used to have it all together. I don’t know what happened.” BTW, I’m the one that starts out wearing the suit-and then…)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3mh1PAZucJs&feature=player_detailpage

(DISCLAIMER: This goofy video was made by members of the Warrior Room-a Kettle bell gym where I work out. We did it as a surprise birthday present for the owner)

We all have our coping mechanisms, right? As I get older, I find that no matter how hard I train, whether or not I WANT to be faster, stronger, younger, thinner, or prettier, more successful at work, or less stressed, I have to put everything in perspective, and prioritize my expectations. It is a constant series of evaluation, planning, adjusting, measuring, and learning. I have had coaches for just about every aspect of my life: business coach, running coach, triathlon coach, voice coach, acting coach,spiritual coach, and probably more that I am just not thinking of at the moment. These people have my highest praise and appreciation. (And of course, a big chuck of my earnings!) But without them, I wouldn’t have had the countless unique, exciting, and amazing accomplishments that I cherish every day.

I’m excited about my next adventures and where life will lead me this year and beyond. I’m simultaneously preparing for my triathlon, my daughter’s wedding, and the deluge of family members that will converge on my house in three weeks. You have no idea what it is like when we get together. God help us! One step at a time, I guess. I actually feel sorry for my neighbors.

So, do you think the rain will hurt the rhubarb? I don’t think so. Mine are in cans. Big, fat, strong, solid, bad ass cans. Bring on the rain. Ain’t no stopping THIS rhubarb.

What challenge have you had this year that caught you off guard, and how did you overcome it?

It’s Spring and We’re Running Rampant

Posted on May 15, 2013 by PattyRan

If you read my last Blog about Racing Etiquette, you know that race season if officially upon us. This is evident by the number and size of the blisters on my well worn out feet. But it is Spring, and my friends and I all running rampant! My face book news feed is packed with photos of my friends doing various runs and races, from virtual 10k’s to multiple marathons within days of each other.

What the heck keeps us going? Why do train all winter, in ridiculously wet, cold, windy weather, just so we can pay money, drive or fly somewhere, get hotels, get up before the crack of dawn and huddle, freezing, at starting lines, so we can run our often-battered bodies until we puke? Some people would say it’s for the medals we covet at the finish line of a marathon. Some are trying to win, or PR at least. For others it’s the elusive Boston qualifying time they are chasing. The reasons are different for everyone, and change from week to week for each runner.

Sometimes, despite my best efforts to cover my blister with proper protection, I grow OTHER blisters, just to spite myself.

On May 5th, I ran the Tacoma City Half Marathon. It was my third half marathon in a month. I had PR’d the previous week, and the only goal I had for this race was to have fun. I learned something during this race, as I always do. What I learned was this:

I need therapy. There, I said it. I’m pretty sure most of my running friends do too, but they’re not willing to admit it. (Insert smiley face) I am overdoing it again, and I am finally ready to admit it. But, my torn Peroneal Tendon, Achilles Tendinitis, Plantar Fasciitis, blisters, and bunion have spoken AGAIN. Time to back off and heal again.

But wait, I am signed up for the Rock and Roll Half Marathon this weekend!!!!

As you may know, I am (almost) in my mid 50’s. Recently, several people have expressed doubts about that, but what I say is this: Look closer. WITH your glasses on. Trust me, there are days when I feel every single year that I have lived, and then some. I am wrestling with an aging body, an immature mind, and a free spirit. I wouldn’t have it any other way, I just would like to do without the injuries. Therapy might help stop me from running rampant and continuing to exacerbate my injuries. I know many of you know exactly what I’m talking about. HELLO!!!

So, what’s a girl to do? THIS girl won’t run this whole week, but she will bike, swim, and work out at the Warrior Room. On Sunday, I will remember to bring my brain with me and take it slowly, enjoying the scenery, the great music, and the friends I will make along the route. I promise. I will try not to envy those of you that can run marathons every other week, and gleefully PR, and BQ your way into oblivion. I love you all, and you inspire me, and someday, I too will join you again and kick ass.

Why do we do this? I’ll tell you why. Because of each other. Because of the freedom of the road. Because of the looks we get when we tell someone our true age, and they don’t believe us. We do it because we have a need inside us to conquer something. We do it for the sweat, grime, pain, and elation. We do it because we have the support and admiration of our friends and families. We do it because we CAN. Ever since I became a distance runner and joined several running groups,teams, forums, and clubs, I found the absolutely indescribable, unconditional love and support of my piers-beyond anything I have ever imagined. When I run, they are all with me. Every step. Every wonderful or painful step.

Just like Derek Redmond in the 1992 Olympics, when his father helped him limp to the finish after a sudden injury, I feel the loving supportive arms of my running community around me, carrying me forward, no matter what. Thank you running community. I have no higher praise than this!

Not This time

Posted on April 21, 2013 by PattyRan

As I sit here digesting the news and reading about what’s happened all week in Boston, I am finally ready to write about Monday’s attack. The city of Boston was under lock down. Police, SWAT Teams, Military, Law Enforcement, and dozens of News Agencies were crawling all over the city. There was a massive manhunt for the second suspect in the horrific bombings at the Boston Marathon. Fortunately, he was caught and the city and world breathed a collective sigh of relief, at least for the moment.

I was not in Boston on Monday but many of my friends and fellow runners were there. Some of these people are very close to me, and some I have come to know through Facebook. Social Media is amazing Because of it, I have been introduced to people I never would have had the opportunity to know, and I feel Blessed because of these relationships.

All week I have been vacillating between anger, fear, extreme sadness, and hope. I have struggled with some of the PTSD that I suffered with after 9/11. There are people that will say this is not like 9/11, but for many people, it is very similar. Senseless violence against innocent people, no matter the number of casualties, is unthinkable.

After 9/11, there was a huge movement towards “closing your circle” of exposure. We have created layer upon layer of security systems to protect our privacy. We screen our calls, emails, online presence, Facebook posts and photos, and keep ourselves protected in many ways from the outside world. I became suspicious of everyone. I used to fear going in tall buildings, or driving across a bridge if I saw an airplane in the sky. Even now, if I am driving or running and I see a “suspicious package” or a backpack or box sitting alone on the side of a road, or in a building, I have a momentary feeling of fear-wondering if it is a bomb. Is this rational? Hell if I know.

But THIS time, I will not let this tragedy send me into a spiral. I will not let the Terrorists affect my life in a negative way. Of course I will grieve for the innocent lives lost and for those that will be forever affected. YES, I will pray for them and their families and loved ones, but I will commit to becoming a better person for the world around me, as my way of giving back.

There is a strong need in the world for people to reach out to others and get to know them. A simple smile and a “Hello” as you cross paths with someone on a sidewalk, can make someone’s day. I see a lot of people walking in the various neighborhoods where I run, so I have several opportunities to give them a warm smile and wish them a good day. I notice the young people-maybe 12-16 years old, that look serious, heads down, maybe dressed in baggy or trendy clothes, and seem sad or uncomfortable in their own skin. They try to avoid eye contact but lately, I make a point to look into their eyes, smile, and say “HI”. I have seen some of them transform their faces with huge smiles, and show a sense of appreciation and a little embarrassment that they were even noticed! I see the same one’s a few times a week, and we are starting to recognize each other, and they have even initiated the smile and hello. Our worlds are overlapping and it is a good thing.

There is a man that I call “My Amish Boyfriend“, that rides his bike near my house. I used to see him while I drove to work, before I started running. He wears a top hat, like an Amish man would wear, instead of a bike helmet, and he has a grey beard. I figure he is in his late 60’s or early 70’s. When I started running, I saw him all over the place at a certain time of the morning. After several times passing each other, we would nod and go our own way, then over time, we’d say a quick “hi”. Recently, when we see each other, it is a bigger smile and a nice comfortable, knowing “Hi” or “Good morning”. This week, on my run, I saw him mowing a lawn at a house nearby and I ran by him and waved. I was planning on turning around and doubling back at the end of his block, and just then I decided to stop and introduce myself. I did this because of Boston. I felt like my reaching out and making this small gesture to another human being, was important. So I stopped and walked up and introduced myself to John. He gave me a big smile and said that he sees me running all over the place. We chatted and I found out his brother had just run Boston and that he was “just fine”. What a small world. I bid him good day and continued my run, feeling on top of the world for having stopped. My “Amish boyfriend” now has a name, and I have a new friend.

This week I attended a memorial run for Boston that was organized by the Portland Triathlon Club. I would guess there were over a thousand runners of all abilities that showed up to publicly proclaim their support for the people involved in the tragedy. After a short but meaningful memorial service, we ran a loop around the waterfront in honor of Boston. It was inspiring to see such a turnout and see people of all ages running, walking, pushing strollers, and being supportive. At the finish line, the organizers set up a line of people, cheering on and “high five-ing” the runners as they completed the loop. It turned into a long “gauntlet” of sorts and the energy and enthusiasm for each and every person lifted everyone’s spirits tremendously. I felt completely connected. EVERYONE that passed through got a high five and thunderous applause from all those gathered. At one point, two very dirty, scruffy homeless men, one carrying a dog, approached the area where this was all taking place. They hesitated for a second, perhaps not knowing what was happening, and then, the crowd broke into another round of applause for THEM, and they both lit up. They smiled huge smiles, stood up straighter, and briskly walked through the tunnel of cheering, high five-ing runners, that patted them on the back and thanked them for being there.It was a beautiful moment.

These gestures, small or large, create incentives that can be the beginning of change. Change someone’s mood. Change someone’s attitude. Change someone’s heart. Change YOURSELF. In the past week, I have seen a different response to this National tragedy than in times past. Instead of cocooning and “pulling up the draw bridge”, I have seen people reach out and embrace each other. Strangers have started conversations with strangers in neighborhoods, airports, waterfronts. This is the power of good over evil. This is humanity elevating itself above fear, pettiness, and ignorance.

Runners and their families were attacked. Who are runners? Why this group? We are not political, controversial, powerful, or threatening. We are “everyman”. We are old, young, fast and slow. We are dedicated and committed to endure. We love community and celebrating each others’ achievements, no matter how large or small. We take care of each other. Period. The world just saw how much of a “family” runners and their supporters are. We love. Unconditionally and completely.

So, to all the Terrorists of the world, that have no regard or respect for human life, you will not defeat us. You will not cause us to live in fear. The city of Boston and all the cities of the world that supported the victims this week have proven this. You will not win. NOT THIS TIME.

6 Things That Make Running Enjoyable For Me (Well, at least LESS PAINFUL)

Posted on April 2, 2013 by PattyRan

It’s no secret that runners typically can endure numerous set backs, whether it be due to scheduling issues, mental meltdowns, unsupportive partners, or a myriad of other issues and injuries. Trust me, I am no stranger to all of the above. Be it GI issues linked to Celiac Disease, nagging Achilles Tendonitis, periodic Migraines, or a spouse that actually wants to see me once in a while, I have been through the wringer. None of this matters, however, because I am a RUNNER, and no matter what Mother Nature or Father Time, or hormonal imbalance throws at me, I will figure out how to get a run in-even it it means limping around all day afterwards.

I have a few people to blame for this addiction, AND YOU KNOW WHO YOU ARE. I love you to death.

1.) Suzanne Kruse. I have mentioned this before, but it was Suzanne that unintentionally planted the marathon seed in my head in 2011. Suz ran her first marathon in the Fall of that year, and as I watched her complete that milestone, I made the decision to give it a try. Suzanne is a fasthole that just keeps on going no matter what. We haven’t run together in a while because she and I are trading injury woes right now, but we’ll push through them.

2.) Coach James Mattern, and Coach Jim’s Elite Runners in Training. (check it out on Facebook) Jim, you brought the world of group training to me, met with me one on one, and customized a plan that took me from beginning runner to Marathon runner and beyond. I love you for this, but DAMN, now I have another addiction! Jim ROCKS! looking forward to the Saturday morning long runs, and all the posts from attendees, keeps me on my toes, eager with anticipation, every week. Even when I was sidelined with my 3 month injury, I faithfully followed the team training posts and ran vicariously through all the smiling faces of the weekly runners.

The Ladies of the Honey Badger Elite Running Squad, are the one’s that sealed the deal to my membership in a spaztacular cultish love fest. Oh God, I’m in deep here. “Honey, stop the car, Patty’s gone to the other side.” HB’s are insanely intense, irresistible, and indescribable in their love of each other, of running, adventure, and of life itself. I don’t think there could possibly be another group of women (and one man-badger) that has the depth of core-support and accountability for each other than this club. We have a motto of “Leave no badger behind” and this rings true throughout the tough training, silly escapades, and while nursing one of it’s “Cobra” inflicted members through a tough time. Although I am not as fast or experienced as many of these ass kicking lunatics, I still know they have got my back, and I theirs.

Here is our logo. Yeah, we’re Bad Ass!

Suffice it to say, without these inspirational and supportive individuals and groups, I wouldn’t be running, and I certainly wouldn’t be blogging about running at this stage of my life. I know that on any given day, I can call on any of the above to keep me company on a run, give me advice, share my fears, tears, and joys, and most of all, a deep belly laugh.

Before I share the next three things that make running enjoyable for me, I have a confession to make. I have Schrek feet. Big, fat, gnarly, ugly ass feet. Bunions, toes shaped like light bulbs, and a very high instep…oh yeah, that Shrek’s got nothin’ on me. The scene in Cinderella where the ugly step sisters try to fit their honking feet into the glass slipper is a little too close to home for this gal.

If you fast forward to around 2:52, you can see what my usual shoe trying-on experience is like. Not pretty. (Although hilariously portrayed here!)

Because of this malady, the next three things that have me all warm and fuzzy right now are:

4.) My Correct Toes

5.) My new Brooks PureDrift shoes

6.) My new Smart Wool Toe Socks . My feet have never felt better. OOOH, just thinking about it makes me all giddy inside.

I have been wearing the Correct Toes for over a year, but rarely with shoes, because, well, they just don’t make a lot of cute shoes wide enough to add toe spreaders in them. Most running shoes are barely wide enough for me as well, so I couldn’t wear them while running either. According to Dr Ray McClanahan, my Podiatrist: “returning the feet to their natural shape eliminates existing foot problems and prevents new ones from arising. This is done using a Correct Toes spacer, which spreads the toes to their natural and correct position. This improves proprioception, which then allows the brain to better promote balance and optimal muscle function.”

All I know is that they make my feet feel wonderful, my bunion is getting smaller, and I am not having the sharp searing pains I used to have after approximately 4 miles of running. I bought the Smart Wool toe socks last week, and found that I could wear them WITH my Correct Toes, INSIDE my new Brooks PureDrift shoes. I have run over 20 miles in these shoes so far, and every day feels better than the last!

The Brooks shoes are a minimalist shoe with two split grooves that let your toes spread out. They are super light weight and feel delicious. A word of caution, though. If you haven’t run in a minimalist shoe or a zero drop, don’t jump right to this shoe from your full on stability shoe with a big heel to toe drop. I’ve been transitioning for about a year, and there’s no way I would have been able to run in these last year. Be kind to your feet and legs, and transition gradually. There are all sorts of conflicting reports on whether minimalist shoes are better or worse for you. I’ll stay out of that controversy and just say that for me, I am happy with them.

Lastly, my Smart Wool Toe Socks, are the coziest, cushiest, kissable socks I have ever worn. I love love love them. My massive toes feel so good tucked nicely inside them. They are the perfect thickness, don’t get too warm, and don’t bunch up or slide down when I run in them. I am hooked! I have tried other toe socks and have been so bummed by the fit, the bunching, and the sliding into the back of my shoe. THAT makes me a crazy woman. These stay put and are the absolute BOMB.

Here is what a happy post run Patty looks like:

Not exactly a Cover Girl, but happy to be running again.

My rehabilitation is coming along, with trial and error, and most RECENTLY, trial and SUCCESS. I am running my first half marathon since last year, and this will be the longest distance in 4 months, so I am a little freaked, but I’ve got the great advice from months of training with my Coach, the support of my friends and Honey Badgers, and I’ve got the first class foot package to keep my going. So if you are in Yelm, Washington this weekend, I’ll be running the first day of The Double Half.

What makes your runs enjoyable? Do you run alone or in groups? With or without music? I’d love to hear about it. Have a great week.

Miley Cyrus Gave Me a Gift

Posted on March 14, 2013 by PattyRan

I’m not a Miley Cyrus fan. I don’t pay any attention to her really, although I do know who Hanna Montana is, or was. But last Saturday, I got a wonderful gift from her! OK, so she didn’t actually send me anything, maybe it was nothing more than a “being in the right place at the right time” sort of thing.

So here’s the mystery: What do running uphill, Winter in Oregon, Exercise Induced Asthma, and Tendon tear recovery have to do with Miley Cyrus? Stay tuned my little chickies, and I will tell you.

Last Spring, on a training run with my Honey Badgers, we were running up what we call Cemetery Hill, for some lung splitting 45 degree hill training. Well, 45 degrees might be exaggerating, but, trust me, it was STEEP! Anyway, up we went, switchback after switchback, when all of a sudden, I heard this whistling sound coming from my heaving chest. Not knowing what it was, I kept going, but slowed way down and told my friends I would meet them at the top. Rose, a nurse, decided she was going to hang back with me. This was NOT because she too was struggling, mind you, but rather, because she didn’t want to have to keep looking back at me to evaluate at what point the CPR should commence.

I managed to make it to the top and continue the run with no other problems, and I brushed it off as early Spring allergies. A few weeks later, on another run with Coach Jim’s Elite Runners in Training, we were running up Mt Tabor, another steep run with several switchbacks, and it happened again. THIS time, I thought it was a panic attack, so I slowed way down, calmed down, and was able to recover and continue to the top and beyond. At this point, I developed a secret fear of running up steep hills.

When the wheezing returned a few more times I actually did contact my doctor, and low and behold, I have Exercise Induced Asthma, so I now have the pleasure of carrying ONE MORE THING with me along on my training runs.

My little friend “Sniffy”

Sniffy now travels with me to every run and workout, and manages the job of keeping me breathing, thank God, so now I have no excuse for wheezing up the hills, unless of course, I am in fact, having a panic attack. (If I ever write about my Ragnar Race, I’ll tell you about the Grand Mal of panic attacks at 1 am)

Two and a half weeks ago, I started with my running come back, after a long break due to injury. I’ve been logging some short miles, and Saturday was to be my longest yet, clocking in at just over 8 miles. As it turned out, my training group was going to be running Mt Tabor. My nemesis. THE HILL. ASTHMA. PANIC ATTACK. ACHILLES TENDON TEAR. Oh God, I stressed all week about this run. I showed up at 8am and met approximately 60 other brave souls out for anywhere between 8 and 20 miles in temperatures in the low 30’s. Portland runners are just amazing-there were people in shorts that day. I had my trusty layers on and my secret weapon, hand warmers, inside my gloves.We headed out in our respective pace groups, and I plodded along the first 2 miles of warm up, with Mt Tabor looming in the foreground. At mile 2.4, the climbing starts and within less than 1.4 miles, rises 400 feet. That might not sound so bad to some people, but it is a killer to someone new or newer to running, especially if you have psyched yourself out for it every time! Being the recently rehabbed runner who doesn’t want to end up with another 11 weeks off, I took it easy up the hill, and alternated running and walking during the steep parts. I wanted to regularly “check in” with my Achilles, and Peroneus, just to make sure I wasn’t hurting it again. I managed to scale the top,and circle around the summit, catching up with my pace group half way downhill, at the bathroom stop. At this point I was victorious. I had climbed Mt Tabor, I had survived it, and my foot and ankle felt just great. The rest of the run went superbly, and for the first time in months, I felt like I was coming back.

When I got to my car and headed to my office to shower and go to work, Miley Cyrus’s song, “The Climb” came on the radio. My radio station doesn’t usually play this song, so I was thinking, “Oh please, really? Miley Cyrus????” But then I started listening to the words and I started crying in the car. Before you dismiss me as being overly sentimental and emotional, let me explain.

I returned to running for the first time in 15 years, just 3 years ago at age 50. In late 2011, I decided to train for a half marathon, something I had never done before. By Fall of 2012, I ran 2 marathons, and other than incurring a stupid injury, felt like I had accomplished one of the most incredible things I had ever set out to achieve. Then I was sidelined. Stopped cold.

This is me recovering by our pool in Mexico.The swelling had gone down.

Recovery is not sweet or swift at my age. I am struggling with the comeback. Every run is a major challenge. I want to run another marathon, and I want it NOW. I obsess about the finish line. I long to run with my friends at a faster pace. I want MILES!!!! But for now, I can’t do those things. I have to take it easy and gradually build it up again. I can’t risk damaging my foot and ankle again, by doing too much, too soon.

So, when I heard this song on the radio, I thanked Miley for the gift of words. Her song is now on my ipod, which in itself is pretty funny, but I will sing it over and over again, while I journey back to 26.2.

I can almost see it
That dream I am dreaming
But there’s a voice inside my head saying
“You’ll never reach it”

Every step I’m taking
Every move I make feels
Lost with no direction
My faith is shaking

But I gotta keep trying
Gotta keep my head held high

There’s always gonna be another mountain
I’m always gonna wanna make it move
Always gonna be a uphill battle
Sometimes I’m gonna have to lose

Ain’t about how fast I get there
Ain’t about what’s waiting on the other side
It’s the climb

The struggles I’m facing
The chances I’m taking
Sometimes might knock me down
But no, I’m not breaking

I may not know it
But these are the moments that
I’m gonna remember most, yeah
Just gotta keep going
Lyrics from <a href=”http://www.elyrics.net”>eLyrics.net</a>

I Wanna be in the One That Leads to Awesome

Posted on February 1, 2013 by PattyRan

I’m a sucker for inspirational speeches, books, movies, and people. My newest favorite is this one

I love the part where he says, “We were made to be awesome.” YES, we WERE. Awesome!!! Feel it. Be it. Live it.

Some days we just need to hear it. Becoming runner has lead me to places of awesomeness that I never could have planned or imagined. As the saying goes, “You just can’t make this stuff up.” No way. Watching this video clip prompted me to go and Google Robert Frost. This poem could be the motto of my sport. Read it and tell me how it speaks to you.

The Road Not Taken

Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,
And sorry I could not travel both
And be one traveler, long I stood
And looked down one as far as I could
To where it bent in the undergrowth;

Then took the other, as just as fair,
And having perhaps the better claim
Because it was grassy and wanted wear,
Though as for that the passing there
Had worn them really about the same,

And both that morning equally lay
In leaves no step had trodden black.
Oh, I marked the first for another day!
Yet knowing how way leads on to way
I doubted if I should ever come back.

I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I,
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.

Robert Frost

When you do find your “Road Not Taken”, and you decide to travel there, know that you are strong, amazing, and inspiring to all those who stay in the safe zone. If you want to BE IN THE ONE THAT LEADS TO AWESOME, then don’t look back. Bring a friend! Better yet, bring them all. LEAD them all. And just in case you don’t think you can, well ponder this:

Running in Muck

Running Through What Life Throws At You

Category Archives: Inspirational