Start with one thing

 One thing I have learned about myself over the years is that if I neglect one aspect of my health, everything else follows suit.  For example, if I find myself injured and unable to run or workout, my diet will deteriorate as well. I think it is an attitude of, "well, what's the point anyway?'.

But the opposite is also true. When I am consistent in my running or working out, I am more vigilant about my diet - "Do I really need a second glass of wine knowing how I will feel tomorrow?", "I had better not eat that fried chicken, no telling what will happen on my run tomorrow morning".  (Where is that porta potty when you need it?)

It only takes one win in your life for others to fall in place.  Maybe with the new year, instead of thinking "I am going to quit drinking, clean up my diet and start working out", just do one thing and stick with it.  Once you start feeling the benefits of that one change, the other goals you have will be much easier to stick to.  

Just my two cents.  

Praying for a healthy and happy new year for all of you! 

Happy Running! 

Edie

Building Consistency

 If you have spent many years running, many of you will understand that your running life tends to cycle.  You will go from being compulsively consistent to reach a goal, then once reached, you may struggle just to get out the doors a couple of days a week. I have been through both extremes and have spent plenty of time in the middle.

It is so easy to beat yourself up when you are in a running slump.  You remember how fit you were and how good you felt when you were in a solid routine, but you just can't find the motivation to get back there.  So instead of running being an escape from real world worries, or a stress reliever, it becomes a source of stress and guilt.  

I did that for years. I have finally learned to absolve myself from the guilt I used to feel when I was "slacking" and give myself a little grace. Life can beat you up from time to time, and when it does, I think it is good to have your view of running in a healthy place.  

The last half of 2022 was crazy for me work-wise.  We were short staffed and many of the tasks that should have been done were behind schedule, causing me to have to work double time to get everything up to speed and finish up the year.  I decided to give myself some room to breathe and backed off on my running a bit.  It was a huge relief once I did, but rather than feel guilty for not running, I found myself missing it.

Even though 2023 looks to be another challenging year at work, I am determined to have more balance in my life.  I am better when I am running regularly - my happy spot is around 40 miles/week - this is where I feel the best, but it is not wearing on my energy levels.

So, here I am working on building my consistency and recreating the running habits that I need.  I will probably end up running 5 days/week, which is a good amount for me. Most of my earlier ultras were done with 4 day/week trainings, but lots of two-a-days and high mileage runs mid week.  Spreading it over 5 days/week should help even out the load a bit.

If you are in a rut with your running and wondering if you even want to do it anymore ... don't despair. It is normal.  Take some time off from "training" and do some fun runs with friends.  Or don't.  It has to be something you WANT to do, or you have to set a goal you WANT to reach.  If you aren't doing it for yourself, you are doing it for the wrong reasons.

My two and a half cents. :-) 

Happy Running!  Edie

Smoothie recipe

 Here is a smoothie I try to make at least 4 days a week.  On the opposite days, I usually fast - I do have milk in my coffee, but I skip lunch and eat an early dinner while drinking a ton of water.  

I like this smoothie because it is loaded with protein, Omegas, etc. We make our own powdered greens from the garden, but I used to buy them - there are tons of good option out there, but they aren't cheap. I like doing it this way because it it a concentrated amount of good nutrients. 

I have fine tuned this over a few years, so it will be different for you.  Just an idea. 

Up next

 2022.  Enough said. Man this year has felt like a beating. I speak to enough people to know that I am not the only one feeling this way.  Like many others, we are short handed at work, so we are having to accomplish the same things with a smaller staff. Working for a local nonprofit means we always try to stretch our money as much as possible so we can be good stewards of our donor dollars, and this year it meant covering 19 parishes in South Louisiana with two staff people - myself and my amazing social worker, Ashley.  (For more info on the nonprofit I manage, click here:  www.MaddiesFootprints.org).

What this meant for me was cancelling my races in Kansas, Texas and Wisconsin (so I am probably not the person to complain to about lost race fees, lol).  I am the type of person who needs to have a scary race on the schedule to motivate me to get out the door.  If I ever give up racing, I don't know if I will continue to run.  It's just the truth.

So, without races to motivate me, my training has fallen off.  Now I find myself 2.5 months from a tough 50k and 7 months from a 100 miler with some work to do.

I "hired" a coach.  An old friend who is very accomplished and who knows me as a runner better than anyone.  We have shared many miles and more than anyone, he knows how to get under my skin to get me moving.    Training is officially underway and I honestly could not be happier about it.  I need balance in my life.  My work life is very demanding, so in my head, my training needs to be the same so I can have balance.  It makes sense to me.

So, if you are interested in following along, I will post updates along the way.  Warning - I am very honest and may share more info than you were looking for.  I will share insight into what it is like training for a 100 miler while in the early stages of menopause, I will talk about my faith, and I curse a lot.  I know - God and I have regular conversations about it - I think we have come to an understanding.

In the meantime, I will spend time rereading this post from when I achieved a big goal of mine for the first time - 100 miles in 1 day.  See, my next 100 miler - The Badger in Wisconsin (and Illinois) may very well be my last, so of course, I don't just want to finish - I've already done that.  I want to compete.  So I have work to do, and that makes me happy! 

https://edieruns.blogspot.com/2013/02/100-miles-in-1-day.html

Happy Running Y'all! 

Edie

Giving back to the sport that has given so much to me.

 Like the title of my blog says, "Why Am I Doing This"?  This ultra running thing.  I think about it more and more now that I have been running ultras for around 13 years or so.  Don't get me wrong, I LOVE the sport.  You will not find more genuine, encouraging and fun people anywhere than at an ultra distance event.  The people who line up at the start of a 100 miler are the most laid back type - simply because they need all of the energy they have and won't waste it on b.s.  

When I started hosting my own races, I hoped that it would encourage more women to participate in trail and ultra races.  While our shorter distances (20 miler and 50k) can be up to 50% or more female, the 100 mile distance still remains heavily male dominated (consistently 75% male).   I recently asked a question of my female running friends what the obstacles are to their doing ultra distances, and the answers were as expected:

"Well I have done 3 but my biggest hurdle to more is being afraid of the terrain. Roots, mud, hills, etc. I know it’s better for my body Vs running concrete but for some reason I think concrete is easier" 

 

"Time away from family for training" 

 

"It’s always been a TIME issue for me. I don’t know how to balance work, kids and long runs especially with a husband who works every other weekend. It cost me a fortune in babysitters to train for a marathon when I was a single mom."

 

 "Consistency in training… however, I’m determined to finally overcome that this year!"

 

 "1) joint pain 

2) historic inability to train consistently 

3) lack of support system "

Deciding to train for an ultra distance race is a big deal.  There is much thought and negotiation that goes into the decision - with yourself and with your family.  There will have to be sacrifices, and each individual has to decide for themselves if those sacrifices are worth it for them.  All of these reasons are legitimate and need to be taken seriously.  

BUT - what if someone could take away a couple of the most common reasons given - consistency and support system.  What if there was a group of women out there who are experienced ultra runners, in all phases of their lives, who are willing to give their time to guide and encourage you through the training?  What if they promised to be there to hold you accountable to your promises? 

This is why I have reached out to a few key people who I know will make good mentors to get their input into this endeavor.  Here is what it will look like ...

Because we are a small crew, and this is a completely volunteer deal, we will accept applications from female runners who need the boost to get them to the next level.  You do not have to be a "good" runner, or a "fast" runner to qualify.  ALL speeds, shapes and sizes are welcome and encouraged to reach out!  

This is a FREE mentorship program.  We are not coaching you - we will give you a few good training plans that we like, and you can choose which one to follow, or we can recommend a coach if you are interested.

We will provide weekly check ins with your assigned mentor, and monthly virtual meet ups with different female specific topics like -  "What do I do if I am scheduled to start my period the day of my 100 miler" (been there).  And you will have access to an experienced female ultra runner who can answer day to day questions like "Now that I am running longer, my sports bra is tearing up my skin - what do I do?" 

I am willing to give up to 5 free entries into Loup Garou Trial Run - any ultra distance - to participants in this program, but you have to show that you are serious and stick to your training program to get the free entry.  If you know of another race director who might like to participate, let me know.

I am also considering funding a couple of out of town race entries.  This is to be determined, and the direction I would like this program to grow.

So, with this mentorship program, the consistency and support system reasons are canceled. The rest is up to you.  This is ultra running, after all, and there is a degree of self sufficiency expected.  

If you are interested, or know someone who might be, send this to them.  

To answer my original question "Why Am I Doing This"?  Because I know first hand what crossing the finish line of an ultra distance means for a woman's confidence.  Because I know that the life changing experience is not in the actual finish line, but in the woman realizing that this means that many of the other excuses she has been using in her life to hold her back have now been canceled as well. Because I know that there is tremendous growth in pushing yourself through discomfort, and yes, even pain.  The good stuff is always on the other side of where you are afraid to go.

Email me at PaixRunning@gmail.com if you are interested in participating.

Happy Running!  

Edie

A few of my running buddies that have helped to inspire me over the years:

Fawn and I have run through many of life's ups and downs.

Liz is one of the most competitive runners I know! 

 

Lydia trains for and runs ultra distances while caring for her amazing special needs boys! 

 

 

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Everything in its place

 After the Badger 100, my plan was to rest, recover and run Arkansas Traveler 100 a month or so later. I have wanted to do that race for years, but it never fit into my schedule.  I was bummed after Badger to have some lingering foot / achilles issues that wouldn't let me run.  When I had to withdraw from Arkansas Traveler, it put me into a bit of a running funk.  If I tried to run,  it hurt.  If I took weeks off, it hurt.  Running was evolving from a stress reliever to a stress inducer, so I stopped.  For a solid 4 months, I have not made a concerted effort to run, and I can't say that I have hated it. 

Running my first 50 miler at the Rocky Raccoon 50 in Feb 2010.

I began trail and ultra running in 2009, and ran my first official ultra - Rocky Raccoon 50 miler in Feb 2010. A few times since, in my 13 year ultrarunning life, I have reached a point of deciding to completely leave running behind (but I have always kept a fresh pair of running shoes in the closet - just in case).  It was too much work, took too much time - running up to 15 - 17 hours a week at peak 100 miler training - and, the excuse that is beginning to creep in - I am getting too old for this shit.  I am not one to just run for fitness.  I am motivated by big goals, and without them, the desire to get out of bed when it is early and freezing cold is just not there.

Finishing the Badger 100 in July 2021.

But, I keep getting drawn back.  The reason that I am so drawn to running is its simplicity.  It is the most basic and oldest form of exercise.  Rarely do we need to run for our safety or to catch our food now, but that primal urge is still there.  Humans are made for long distance running and I think once you experience it, it becomes a part of who you are.

Recently I got word that a dear ultra running friend of mine, whom I met during my first 50 miler, is starting his own 100 miler that will be accessible to runners with mobility issues.  Yes, people run 100's of miles with a stroller (looks like a walker, but made for running).  My friend's name is Will Sprouse and he is on the mend from a major stroke.  Will has run MANY 100 milers with health issues, and has completed 100 milers since the stroke that had the doctors saying he would never walk again. Tell him he can't do something. I dare you.

Will, after finishing the Red Dirt Ultra 100 miler.

So, when registration opens for the Iron Will 100 miler on Christmas Day, I will be buying myself my Christmas present and signing up.  He is offering shorter distances as well, but out of sheer respect for Will and what he has overcome in his life, I will be training for and running the 100 miler.  I don't remember ever visiting Kansas, and I can't think of a better reason than this to get me there.

As soon as registration opens, I will share the link, but if you are a fellow ultra runner, you know where to look.

Here's to a happy, healthy holiday season, and new goals for 2022! 

Happy Running! 

Edie

Badger 100

 

Waiting for the race start

Last Saturday, I was lucky enough to participate in theBadger 100 put on by Ten Junk Miles Racing.  This race began in Orangeville, Illinois, ran 30 something miles to Belleville, Wisconsin, back to Orangeville, then to Belleville for the finish.  It took place mostly on a rail trail - an old railroad track that was converted to a trail system once the railroad was no longer used.  The trail was mostly flat, except for a detour around a tunnel on the trail that has recently been condemned.  

After an informative and entertaining pre race briefing with the RD, Scott ("when in doubt, do like a train would do, go f'in straight"), we were off with temps in the high 50's (Nirvana for the south Louisiana folks).  

Fawn and I worked out that I would see her at every possible crew spot - every 10 miles or so. There were aid stations every 5 - 7 miles on the course, which is perfect, but not every one had crew access. Because I would be relying heavily on my own nutrition, and maybe snacking off of the aid stations, it was critical to either see Fawn, or arrange drop bags to be left on the course.

I broke the race down into three legs, mentally - Orangeville to Belleville,  Belleville to Orangeville, Orangeville to Belleville.  So when I refer to leg 1, 2 or 3, that is what I mean.

On the first leg, my plan was to run right past the non-crew aid stations and take advantage of the cooler temps, knowing the second leg would get hot and I would need to slow a bit.  As I would pull into the crew aid stations, where I would see Fawn, I would take the two bottles out of my pack, take the two pre-filled bottles that she had, then take off.  

Approaching mile 22, bottles in hand to exchange with fresh ones.

When I reached Fawn at mile 22, I knew a change of shoes was necessary soon.  I started the race in trail shoes which are firmer than road shoes and have more protection from roots, rocks, etc. This trail was fairly clear of things that bruise your feet, but it was surprisingly HARD - felt like cement hard.  My road shoes are pretty cushy since I have very dainty, wimpy feet, so I knew they would feel better, and I was right. What a relief.  So, after changing shoes, I headed out again.

On the first leg of this race, you run past the future finish line and continue on about 5 miles until you reach Dot's Tavern.  Dot's has been around since the railroad was in place. It was a spot where people could hop off of the train to get a quick beer before continuing on their journey.  It is in an old wooden house, and the tavern is in the basement.

I asked Fawn at mile 35ish to please have a beer waiting for me at Dot's. I didn't want a whole beer, but a little poured into a cup would be welcome.  I chose the New Glarus beer, Totally Naked, for this - great local beer to the area, and super light. It was a good choice.

So, I come off of the trail at Dot's to Fawn handing me my beer, then head down into the basement of Dot's for a "treat" we were supposed to show at the next aid station. Dot's is a popular hangout and clearly has it's regulars who enjoy riding their motorcycles more than running as one pointed out as I climbed the stairs back out with another runner - "I only like to ride my motorcycle 100 miles.  That's probably why you're skinny and I'm fat!"  

Descent into Dot's and a few minutes of air conditioning.

Back onto the trail I go, to see Fawn again at Belleville to restock my pack for leg 2.  

After Belleville (mile 40ish), I reloaded my nutrition in my pack and headed back out. This was another quick turnaround because I knew that leg 2 would be a mentally tough one because it is the nothing leg. Leg 1 everything is new and fun and leg 3, every step is one step closer to the finish line.  

There were so many beautiful farm views on this run! 

At about mile 49, I hit Hollywood aid station.  Hollywood is run by Holly Lindroth, a friend and fantastic human being. Her aid station shined during this race.  The energy was high, the volunteers were super enthusiastic and helpful, and the runner care was top notch.  This is the aid station where I added my headlamp to my pack and took off my right shoe to see what was happening there.  I could feel that I had some blister issues going on (evidently this race has a history of tearing people's feet up - especially my dainty, wimpy feet).  What I saw was a mess.  My big toe on my right foot had a blister under the nail causing it to lift up and hit the top of the shoe, which was becoming painful, so I taped the toe firmly to hold the nail down, knowing I would have to deal with it after the race.

Fawn and I with the Lindroths.  Wonderful ladies, right here.

A few more tweaks and a Porta potty visit and I was on my way.  By the time I saw Fawn again at mile 60, the blisters were taking their toll, and I told Fawn to expect me to slow down a bit from that point.  Until then, I was right on my pace goal of sub 24 hours, but running was becoming more and more painful, so I knew there would be more walking from there on.  

Sometime in this section - between mile 60 - 70, the sun set.

Not long after, it was fully dark, and I was treated to new critters from what I am used to here in Louisiana. 

It was seriously dark - no moonlight made its way to the trail.  Beautiful time to be out there.

During this section, I saw the glowing eyes of what I assume were raccoons up in the trees, and alongside the trail, and I also saw something black / grey flying right in front of my face going after the bugs that my headlamp was attracting. It took me a minute to realize they were bats!  I had to laugh and I thanked the bats for getting rid of some of the bugs for me.  That was pretty cool.

I saw Fawn at mile 70 or so, back at Orangeville - the original starting point.  I took a minute there to change out of my wet shirt in anticipation of cooler night temps, exchange my race vest for a handheld bottle, re-lubed, visited the Porta potty, then headed out for the next 10 miles until I picked Fawn up to pace me at mile 80.

Leaving the mile 80 aid station with Fawn, pulled chicken sandwich in hand (it was delicious!).

When I picked Fawn up at 80, I had to break the news to her that we would be walking most, if not all of the next 20 miles.  My legs were holding up fine, but my feet made it way too painful to run for long.  But, she is a trooper and she has enough experience to roll with whatever the miles would bring, so we set off into the dark.

And we quickly missed a turn, and added two miles to the race - lol!  That is what happens when two nature lovers are ogling the beautiful orange crescent moon and miss the trail markings.  But, we got back on course and headed in the right direction.  The benefit of having doing a few of these is that you know there is very little difference between 100 and 104 miles (the final distance covered). 

During the nighttime hours of 100 milers, I have often felt a heavy sleepy feeling - I remember thinking during one of my 100's that if I fell, at least I could lay down for a bit.  During Badger, I did hit one spot where I was super drowsy, but it didn't last long, then I went back to just plain old tired.

Not long after the sun rose, we reached the Hollywood aid station for the last time. Holly brought me ramen with broth in it and it was so good. I also sat for a few minutes - also good.  Then Fawn made me leave to do the last ten miles - lol! 

Off we went to knock out the last 10 miles which included the tunnel detour which gave me the only elevation gain of the race.  It is a paved section with a fair amount of climbing, but with some really pretty views, so it was worth it.  After the tunnel section, we hit the last aid station which meant we had only 3.8 miles to the finish. I stopped briefly for some salted watermelon which tasted so good for the whole race, then we were headed to the finish.  

About a mile before the finish line you pull into the town of Belleville which was a welcome site, and head to the park where the finish line and festivities were waiting.  As we approached the finish Fawn ran ahead (showoff) to get a picture and I stayed on the course.  Once I got off of the pavement onto the grass, I "ran" it in to the finish line to get my buckle and hug from race director, Scott Kummer.

Rene Villalobos, Scott Kummer, Me

All in all this is a great race!  There are distances from half marathon to 100 miler.  It was a great experience getting to run this trail on an old railroad path, and see the beautiful countryside of Wisconsin and Illinois.  I love different, meaningful races, and this one was both.  Tons of history, nature and good people.  All around great combination.

Now to tend to the damage done to my feet so I can pick up where I left off with my training for Arkansas Traveler 100 in October!

Happy running!

Edie

Other race pics:

Leaving Monroe Aid Station

Race swag.  Coffee tastes better from this when you finish the race.

When your feet are torn up but you have to fly home.