Wednesday, 24 December 2008

Bump pictures

With just a few weeks to go, here's the state of progress.



At my final hospital check-up on Monday, the midwife told me I was lucky as my stomach was all baby. I didn't quite realise it was until I saw the picture below. It looks like I swallowed a rugby ball.



My stomach looks like a bulging circus - I've stratched myself in my sleep, my tattoo is expanding and there's a horrible mark where my narvel piercing was. Still no stretch marks though...yet!

On another note: After chatting with my lovely midwife, Lesley, we discovered that her husband did The Fling this year and is doing it again next year. And he's hoping to go on the reserve list for a WHWR next year. Lesley is part of Jim Robertson's (12 times WHWR finisher) JogScotland group. It's a small world, eh?

Happy Christmas everyone. Hope Santa's good to you. And don't forget to have a wee glass of wine for me. Unless, of course, you're preggers too.

Tuesday, 23 December 2008

Mary takes the turkey...with a little help from Joseph

Sunday was the club's annual Christmas Handicap race. The idea is that everyone dresses-up as Santa and embarks on a 3.25 mile race round Bearsden. Last year I decided to buck the trend and go as an elf.



This year, I'd need more than magic dust to get into the elf suit, so Sonic and I decided to go as Mary and Joseph. Mind you, I don't think a pregnant elf is a good look.



New club handicapper, Paul (Brother of Sonic) was in charge of allocating the times. The idea is that everyone sets off a different times and should (theoretically) finish around the same time. So faster runners should catch slower runners towards the end. Given that I'm eight and a half months pregnant and haven't run for over three weeks, Sonic and I were set off first.




It wasn't the easiest three miles I've ever run. There were lots of steep inclines. The uphills had me gasping for breath and the downhills bashed my bladder. It was quite comical running along the switchback with the cars beeping at us. Papa Sonic even came out to video the occasion. I hope the passers-by were impressed with my bump prop. I bet they didn't think it was a real bump though.

During the last half mile, the first Santa appeared behind me. I was in danger of being piped at the post. Evil Santa was being boo-d by the supporting crowd as he closed the gap in the last 50 metres. Thankfully Joseph managed to fend him off with his crook...and we all crossed the finishing line together. But the bump was first over, so won the prize...of a giant frozen turkey %-) Mary and Joseph also won the prize as the best dressed, so it was a good day all round.

Mary and Joseph finished the 3.25 mile route in 36.01 with an average pace of 11.28 m/m. I can't believe I actually put that pace on my blog! :-) I have to admit, I did have to take a few walking breaks on the hills. And check out the profile.



Paul did a fabulous job as handicapper, as everyone else finished within minutes of us. He'll know next time to mess it up and not get landed with the job.

Friday, 19 December 2008

Guessing game...for a bit of pre-Christmas fun

I'm finding it quite comical that everyone wants to guess the gender of the baby. Even strangers like to get their bit in. The funny ones are the adamant ones. You know, the "I-never-get-it-wrong" pensioners. My 83-year-old gran is one of them. Except she changes her prediction everytime I see her.

So far I've heard:

"You're all to the front, it's definitely a boy"
"It's a high bump, so it's a girl"
"It's a girl - look at the weight you've put on round your hips"
"A small bump means it's a girl"
"No morning sickness? Ah it's a boy"

Old wives tales are fun, but that's it. There really is no truth in them...or is there? Here are a few of the classics:

Girls are carried high and boys are low. I certainly have a very high bump. So high in fact, that I don't need to wear maternity trousers. I've got two pairs that I can't wear, without holding them up. I'm still wearing the regular jeans I bought in August. I did have to go up a size to accommodate my growing hips though. Really the way women carry is the way you carry is determined by muscle and uterine tone and the position of your baby.

Carrying extra weight on the hips, means it's a girl. And all front, it's a boy. Sh*t I think I'm doing both.

The shape of the belly is also used. Watermelon for a girl and basketball for a boy. I look like I've swallowed a football, so I'd have to go with the latter.

If the hair on your legs is growing faster, then it's a boy. Really? I haven't noticed any change in hair growth.

If the Dad-to-be is gaining weight too, then it's a boy. Sonic, care to clarify? Bearing in mind that Sonic can demolish huge amounts and still look like a manorexic.

It's a girl if the the maternal grandmother doesn't have grey hair. Does this mean my Mum or Sonic's Mum? I'm not sure either will know what their natural hair colour is. Although I'm sure they'll both protest that they're natural blondes.

If your chest development has been quite dramatic, then it's a girl. I would say four inches and two cup sizes is quite dramatic, wouldn't you?

You're having a boy, if your feet are colder during pregnancy. Who thought this one up? My feet are always cold, so who knows.

If you're craving salt and meats, then it's a boy. Sweet things, it's a girl. I've never been much of meat eater. Actually I was a vegetarian for 14 years. I usually go for chicken and fish, but I've gone off that completely. Or at least I've gone off cooking it. And has there ever been a pregnant woman who hasn't hit the chocolate?


Morning sickness early in pregnancy, it's a girl.
I didn't have morning sickness at the beginning, but I'm making up for it now.

The babies heart rate is sometimes used as a "predictor". Less than 140 it's a boy and more than, it's a girl. At the last check, my baby's was 140.

If you look better during pregnancy, it's boy. And it's a girl if you look a bit rough. Apparently the theory behind this is a baby girl steals her Mother's looks.

There are also lots of random theories...You crave orange juice for girls, like the heel of a loaf for boys, your nose spreads with a boy and your pee is dull yellow if it's a girl. Also if your asked to show your hands...if you show palm up it's a girl and palms down it's a boy. But my favourite is how you hold a mug. By the cup it's a girl and by the handle it's a boy. All very bizarre. You've got to love those old wives for their tales.

There's also quite a traditional test involving a piece of string and a wedding ring. If you dangle the wedding ring over the bump, it circles for a boy and goes side to side if it's a girl. I've still yet to do this one.

There's also the Chinese gender prediction chart: Legend states that the Chinese Gender Chart was buried in a royal tomb near Beijing over 700 years ago. The original is allegedly currently in the Institute of Science in Beijing.
Rumour has it that this chart is over 90% accurate. Basically, it's based on the age of a the Mother and the month of conception. I'm 33 and Baby C was conceived in late April or possibly very early month.



So there you go, folks. Make of it as you will. If you would like to have a guess, I'm willing to run a wee contest.

Just leave me your guesses for

sex
weight (please be kind!)
Date of birth. The present EDD is January 19

Happy guessing.

Monday, 15 December 2008

Sexy, eh?

Who said pregnancy is glamorous? And what thicko said pregnant women are beautiful? OK I have to admit I DID think pregnant women were beautiful and radiant, until I actually became one. It makes me what to cry when I read some super-thin celebrity saying "I've never felt sexier". Really? Liar! What's sexy about it? At my debut appointment with my GP last week, he started with a few questions about my general well-being. When I responded that everything was fine 'n' dandy, he continued: "So have you been bothered with insomnia, depression, thrush, haemorrhoid's, varicose veins, leaking nipples, itchy skin, swollen ankles...?" Jeez. Who signed me up for this? Thankfully I could shake my head until he mentioned "heartburn and ingestion". My pink bottle of Gaviscon goes everywhere I go. I even take it to bed for emergency midnight swigs. The worse thing about the heartburn is that it makes me feel sick. And when I'm sick, the heartburn is 100 times worse. It's a vicious circle really.

Just to reinforce how unglamorous I feel: Last week during one of my late-night recycling sessions, the vomit was so projectile it actually hit the wall BEHIND me. And as I was spewing and coughing, my full bladder was getting so squashed that I was wetting myself a bit. Sexy, eh?

Better still, it's going to get worse. My hospital bag is packed full of girlie delights like breast pads, nipple cream. maternity towels and HUGE pants. I swear the scouts could use them as tents. They should be buried under the floorboards and nailed down.

On a more positive note, it's the first time in years that I've had a full set of toe-nails. I just a shame I won't be able to see them for much longer :-)

Friday, 12 December 2008

Leg cramps

Thanks to Tim's worldly-wise advice, I have been knocking back the tonic water. It would be a whole lot better with a dash of Bombay Sapphire, some ice and a slice of lime, but I'll have to bank that until next month. So far, so good, as I haven't had anymore painful calf cramps.

Whilst polishing off another bottle last night (I don't even bother with a glass anymore) Sonic asked to try some. I knew he wouldn't like, but he took a small sip and his face said it all. It was like trying to feed a toddler brussel sprouts. Anyway during the night Sonic's calves cramped and he practically kicked me out of the bed before shrieking: "see that tonic water stuff doesn't work"...And that folks, is another snippet of my life...

Thursday, 11 December 2008

Woohoo!

The midget is head down, so the breech drama is over. Phew! The world can start spinning again. Well, as long as the baby doesn't spin back :-) To say I have been obsessed would be an understatement. I've spent the last two weeks swimming, on my hands and knees or hugging a gym ball. I even went for acupuncture last week. It's a non-invasive treatment called moxibustion, which basically involved lighting cigar-like sticks under the small toes. Bizarre, I know. But at the first session the baby was doing somersaults. And the next day, my ribs became a kick-bag. The acupuncturist gave me a stick to take home, to repeat the treatment every evening. Let's just say the scent was less than pleasant. Sonic and I have been high for a week. I'm surprised our neighbours haven't phoned the drug squad. As Sonic falls into the left-brained-everything-must-have-a-scientific-explanation, he's unconvinced. But hey, this form of Chinese medicine for breech babies has a high success rate. And as our baby is head down and ready for action, I'm not even slightly concerned how it got there.

The midwife confirmed the good news yesterday. Really I don't know how they can tell the different body parts, just by prodding about. It all feels like a hard football to me. She did say the baby had a really hard butt though. So that's where my buns of steel went :-) She also said it's highly unlikely the baby will turn back, as first-timers have tight stomach muscles to hold it in place.

On another note, I have to mention my blogging buddies who are suffering from "man-flu". Pah! And this is why men don't have babies. The video makes me giggle everytime.


Tuesday, 9 December 2008

Mirror, mirror on the wall. Who's the fattest of them all?

Every morning when I get up, I go through to the spare room to check my growth status in a full-length mirror. This many seem extreme, but I swear my stomach grows overnight. So far my belly-button has stayed in tact and I don't have any stretch marks. I'm not sure whether is the crazily expensive Clarins cream that I'm using or the fact that they just haven't appeared yet. Apparently it's genetic and my Mum and Sis duly inform me "that you'll just wake up covered in them one day". In the meantime, I doing a stomach inspection every time I'm near a mirror.

With the growth, everyday tasks are becoming a bit of a chore. Who would have thought tying shoelaces would be so exhausting? I'm still enjoying my daily swim, as I feel totally weightless. It's the getting out of the pool that's quite comical. Have you every seen a performing seal flop it's fat body on the poolside? Well, your visual wouldn't be far wrong. I know I should use the steps, but that's too much like logic. Natalie - I had to bite the bullet and buy a maternity swimsuit. Oh the glamour.

I doubt I'll be able to run again, as my calves are a mess. I keep getting cramp in the middle of the night. The other night I shot up completely rigid, but couldn't quite reach my toes to pull back and ease the pain. Thankfully with all my moaning and rolling about like a beetle stuck on it's back (there's another glamorous visual for you), Sonic woke up and helped me out.

Tomorrow's my D-day appointment with the midwife to see if the midget has turned. Keep your fingers crossed for me.

Thursday, 4 December 2008

Another song dedication

This one is from Rachel


"This is a song for my friend Debs who is expecting her 1st baby in January. Song dedications and soundtracks for the birth have already been posted. This is just a wee song that was sent to me today. All I can really say to Debs is:- even though you think you will never say these things....you will!!!!;-)"

I'm not sure this woman actually takes a breath...


The Mom Song from Northland Video on Vimeo.

Wednesday, 3 December 2008

New recruit for WHWR 2009

I bought this postcard from Tiso, as it made me giggle.



I'm sure Karen D and Ellen would be fighting for leading lady if this was behind them :-)

Tuesday, 2 December 2008

All going swimmingly

Still swimming. Actually, I've know become addicted to swimming. During yesterday's 80-length parade, I even considered training for a triathlon. But I knew it was the lethal mix chlorine and hormones sending stupid signals to my brain. Although I do admire triathletes, I will always admire them from afar.

Due to time constraints this week, I'm planning on swimming at lunchtimes. In a vain attempt to keep my hair dry - it's a bit of a drama trying to dry long hair twice a day - I invested in a swimming cap. I picked up a snazzy pink one at the weekend, which I thought would co-ordinate lovely with my black and pink swimsuit. Little did I now that when I stretched the material and put it on, I would look like I had a condom on my head. It definitely wasn't the look I was going for. So there I was by the poolside with a large bump and a contraceptive-looking device on my head...probably gathering looks that suggested "well, we know how she got knocked-up" :-) The worse thing about it was my hair was still soaking wet.

Thanks to everyone who commented, emailed and texted regarding my "Breech Baby" post. I know there's still time to get the midget to turn, but it hasn't stopped me being a drama queen! I'll keep you posted on progress.

Monday, 1 December 2008

Friday, 28 November 2008

Breech baby :-(

At my midwife appointment on Wednesday, I discovered that the baby is breech. At nearly 33 weeks it should have turned by now. I know I've got seven weeks to go, but after a bit of researching I found that only 12% of babies are breech at 32 weeks. And only 4% remain in the position by term. As you can imagine, I was pretty gutted. I'm staying to stay positive though and blocking out the possibility of a c-section - which would be my worst nightmare. I've even chosen a Community Midwife Unit (CMU) that doesn't offer pain relief (other than gas and air and pethidine) or intervention to eliminate the possibility of a c-section. I've only got a couple of weeks to get the baby head down or I will need to change to a hospital (aka the butcher shop).



As you can imagine, I've spent the last couple of days trawling the internet looking for techniques and ideas, so I've got a whole list of things to work on. Lots of strange bum in the air postitions, hugging cushions and bouncing on gym balls (now, keep it clean). Acupuncture has a high success rate, so I've got an appointment for next week. Swimming and walking is also recommended. There are also lots of strange options that I may leave off the list, like doing handstands in the swimming pool (WTF? Can you imagine the looks?) and playing music through earphones in my pants! I would be torn about what to play. What if the baby has the same sh*t music taste as Sonic? It would stay put if it was my ipod.

Just in case, I've decided to hang up my trainers. I'll be swimming and walking from now on.

Anyway, I'm desperate, so if anyone's got any tips...?

Thursday, 27 November 2008

Happy 30th birthday little Sis

Amanda is the baby in the middle and (obviously) that's me on the right. She was born at 32 weeks. Sonic and I were both 37 weeks. Hope history doesn't repeat itself. Yikes! As I don't plan on finishing work until January 9, my lovely colleagues are making jokes about plastic sheets in my office on hot towels at the ready.

Tuesday, 25 November 2008

Slowing down

OK, I confess, there hasn't been much running going on. I did a grand total of four miles last week. I was planning on going out for a "long" run on Sunday, but the weather was awful. I never thought I'd see the day that I'd put off a run due to wild conditions. But that day came and went. And so did the notion of running. To be fair, I have been going to the gym everyday. Mostly using the elliptical trainer (kinda like running), cycling and swimming. There was a news story in most of the papers last week about swimming during pregnancy eases labour pains, so I've spent every spare minute in the pool. Of course, next week's news will probably break research on swimming causing terminal illnesses and birth defects.

I really need to invest in a new swimsuit though. As my bump gets bigger, the top gets lower. I'm sure I'm giving the goggle-clad swimmers a bit of a eyeful :-)

Monday, 24 November 2008

Name that tune

The WHWR's resident DJ, Dave Waterman, has dedicated a song for my little endurance event in January. Very aptly titled: Keep on Pushing.



A life changing tune I will probably remember for a very long time.

On the note - and being a little more sentimental - here's my wedding song. It still gives me goosebumps. You can blame my hormones and emotions, but really I'm just using up space to disguise the fact I've done he-haw running the last few days.

Monday, 17 November 2008

Important lessons

John Kynaston posted an interesting list,which has sparked quite a bit of thought on the race forum: What are the top four lessons that you learned from completing the WHW race?

Here are mine:

1) Mental strength is more important than physical ability.

2) Whilst you can still put one foot in front of the other, never give up. Each step is a step closer to the end.

3) Set a few goals. Your ultimate dream, the achievable and the when things go wrong plan. Where ever you get to, as long as you gave it your best shot then you succeeded.

4) Train, train and train. But accept that no amount of training will prepare you for it.

And here are a few other lessons for good measure.

Be careful where you pee. There are alot of people on the route in June.
Girls - forget this season's Jimmy Choos. Your feet will take months to recover.
Pack for all eventualities, but carry light.
Never underestimate the power of the jelly baby.

Sunday, 16 November 2008

The heart's willing, but the body aint

I don't know how, but I made it out for a five mile run today. After spending the night with my head down the toilet, I could have easily spent the morning in front of the TV. I wasn't unwell, I just feel quite full and sicky after eating. We were out for dinner last night and I just felt the food wouldn't go down. I didn't overeat (it was just bruschetta and pasta in tomato sauce) and didn't feel particular full but whenever I lay down, I felt the rise. Sorry for the graphics.

I felt way better after going out this morning and getting some fresh air, but I felt out of sorts all day. Even when I went to the cinema with my niece, I didn't indulge in sweets to ease the pain of High School Musical.

Anyway cutting back on my food intake won't do me any harm. The dolphin tattoo on my stomach is expanding at a rapid rate. It will look more like Free Willie by the end of the year :-)

For a giggle, check out the card Sonic's brother found. What are the chances of him finding a card like this? just for the record though, my body's not quite that bad...yet.

Friday, 14 November 2008

First day on the job

As I have resigned myself to being Sonic's support and coach for next year's WHW race, today was my first day on the job. The support role is a skoosh. I threw him out the car in the pouring rain at Beinglas Farm and stopped at various checkpoints along the way to Tyndrum. He did all the hard graft and I read a book and chucked a couple of gels out the window. I think I got a good deal.



(A slightly wet and shell-shocked runner)

As previously mentioned we were going away to celebrate Sonic's 34th birthday. We stayed at the Isle of Glencoe Hotel, which was really nice. The room had fabulous views over Loch Leven, which I'm sure would be lovely on a nice day. Unfortunately today was anything but nice. Although it was quite comforting swimming about in the hotel pool watching the trees bend outside. Shame I couldn't use the spa facilities though.

For dinner we went along to the Kinlochleven Seafood Cafe, which I would highly recommend. It was definitely worth battling through the torrential rain for. The food is delicious and fresh, portions are huge and price is really reasonable. Sonic even ordered lobster and managed not take the other diners out in the process of opening it. Although he nearly lost a finger using the crackers. I went for the safe beat of scallops and smoked salmon. I even ordered the starter portions with a view to saving a little space for dessert, but I was totally stuffed.

Thursday, 13 November 2008

Quick catch up

Saturday: Had a long lie (which is 8am for me), cleaned the house, went to my antenatal yoga class, went along to the Uni 5-miler race to pick up Sonic, then to the movies to see James Bond (not my choice), dinner at the Ashoka, home to watch X-Factor (my choice) and in bed by 10.30pm. How's that for cramming it in?

Sunday: Only managed a five mile jog this morning, before undoing all my good-doing over lunch with the girls.

Monday: Just a steady 45 minute cycle at the gym at lunchtime.

Tuesday: Gym in morning. 30 mins on ellipital trainer and then 45 mins on the bike. Went for a hour swim after work. Got really annoyed in the pool as it was quite busy and there was a couple of young guys standing at the bottom getting in the way. Who stands about in a freezing cold indoor pool? I was close to screaming: "It's not f-ing Tenerife. Swim or get out." I think they sensed my annoyance and moved to the spa pool.

Wednesday: Antenatal class this morning. A lovely two hour chat on all the things that can go wrong. Nice. Went to the gym after work for 30 minutes on the elliptical trainer and a 30 minute swim.

If you're still awake...I promise I'm going for a run tonight.

Hitting the West Highland Way tomorrow. It's Sonic's birthday on Saturday, so we're heading up north for a couple of days. He doesn't know where yet. All he knows is that he's got to run 20 miles on the WHW tomorrow morning.

Friday, 7 November 2008

Up with the larks

Nice early start today, as Friday morning gym sessions are now a firm ritual on the exercise schedule. 30 minutes and the elliptical trainer and then 45 mins on the bike.

Sonic asked me last night when Paula Radcliffe gave up running when she was preggers. I failed to see where he made the connection :-) I didn't know the answer but I knew she was still doing quite high mileage. After a bit of search I came across this article in the New York. It's well worth a read. Click here. Basically she was still running the day before she went into labour. Now she really is my superwoman.

Congratulations to my ol' running pals Georgie and Luke, who are expecting their first baby in May. They joined our running club during their brief stunt in Scotland, before returning to Australia. Georgie is another bun-on-the-run, so she'll continue to pound the streets down under.

Thursday, 6 November 2008

Another four-miler

Sonic dropped me off four miles from home (in Dumbarton) tonight, so I could run a point-to-point. I think he was slightly concerned about throwing his wife out the car on a dark winter's night, as I got a big lecture on safety on the way. I have promised to carry my phone on night runs in future, especially when some of the routes round are way have no street-lighting. Of course, I think I'm invincible. Well I did until I reached the dark wooded-area along the back road to Renton. I had forgotten how dark it can be along there. It's about half a mile of sh*tting myself whilst listening to the rustling in the trees. I promised I'd walk that section as the ground is quite uneven, but I had to move pretty briskly. Last winter it was always the fastest part of my tempo run to get back into this town. This year, I'll need to find an alternative. I ain't going that way again. Plus I can't be bothered to carry a phone. Lord knows, I've got enough extra weight to contend with. I suppose I should be more cautious, as anything could happen. It won't be long until I can't actually see where my feet are landing. And if I did go into labour...well, I've always said I want an active birth :-)

Wednesday, 5 November 2008

Remember, remember...

There's an expression that is reserved only for the elderly, terminally ill, mentally unstable and the expectant lady: "And how are you keeping?" Usually delivered in a gentile voice and often with a sympathetic held tilt. It cracks me up every time. When did modern society decide that pregnancy should a medical condition or an illness? Really I think it's easier just to get on with it. The more you milk it the harder it will be. I can still run, swim, cycle and walk without the obligatory waddle. It's sitting down that's becoming a bit of a nightmare. My ribs are in agony. On Monday I was seriously contemplating throwing my office chair out of the window. And when I was stuck in a traffic jam on the way home tonight, I was tempted to abandon my car. So the long and short of it is, running is way much easier than sitting.

This morning I started parenting classes (some super PC nut decided to change the name of antenatal classes) which was an experience. As expected, there was a real mixed-bag of bumps in the room. The common denominator was that no one could sit still on the seats. It must have looked worse than a room full of fidgeting toddlers.

I went for a run when I got home from work. Just my usual four mile route. Bonfire night is a fabulous night for the run. There were fireworks going off everywhere. There wasn't a rocket near me though, as all I can manage these days is 11 minute/miles.

Tuesday, 4 November 2008

Sonic was up early to catch the red-eye to London, which means I get up early too. Well better than wasting precious time, I headed off for an earlier morning gym session. Just 30 minutes on the elliptical trainer and 45 minutes on the bike. I wanted to go for a run after work, but was legs were knackered. So I had a nice quiet night in. Catching up with some work, dinner for one and soul possession of the remote control. Perfect.

Sunday, 2 November 2008

Sunday sunshine

After yesterday's yoga class, Sonic and I went to the food and drink show at the SECC. Lots of freebie food, so it was the perfect day out for the incredible eating machine and the pregnant burd.

I really thought the incredible eating machine was going to burst at the seems. I tried to have a little more control as feeling too full is very uncomfortable now. But after an abundance of seafood, chocolate, cookies, bread, olives and much more, we left feeling suitably stuffed. Sonic was so full that he only managed a bowl of cereal later that evening. Anyone who's aware of Sonic's daily in take will be quite shocked by that. I always maintain that he's the fattest skinny man I know. All very well, but the fat/skinny man doesn't know his way to the supermarket!

Anyway, the point of the story was that I had plenty of extra calories to burn off today. I got up quite early (shock! horror!) and was really looking forward to getting out in the sunshine. Quite deceptive looking out the window, as although the sun was shining it was still sub-zero during the night.

I just went out for a nice five-mile jog round Balloch. I had to take a few walking breaks, but generally really enjoyed it. I'm starting to get a few strange looks when I'm out running now. Actually yesterday (at the show) was the first time that a stranger acknowledge that I was pregnant. Surely that's a milestone?

When I got back I decided to cycle the 10-miles round the Balloch Horseshoe with Sonic. Jeez someone's got their mojo back. I could barely keep up. Hill cycling has never been my forte, so when we hit the inclines I dropped way back. Unlike the man who's been cross-bred with a mountain goat.

Later we watched the New York Marathon. Not as gripping as last year's race, but I was glad to see Paula win again. She's amazing. Also a fabulous performance from local runner Haley Haining who finished 12th in 2:32:12.

Saturday, 1 November 2008

Antenatal yoga

I know. How lame is that? I never thought I'd see the day that I would attend (let alone willingly pay an extortionate fee to attend) an antenatal yoga class.

I searched numerous venues, but the only suitable class was held in Balance in Glasgow's west-end on Saturdays at 1pm. It's such as rubbish time as it's smack-bang in the middle of the day, but I figured it's only a temporary inconvenience. The classes are booked in blocks of five and I was grouped with the 30+ week gals.

I didn't really know what to expect, but I guessed it wouldn't be as strenuous as my usual class. I really didn't expect such a grand turn out though. Mind you in the west-end yoga must be an essential part of antenatal care. Possibly even their weekly "exercise" in take.

Being in the same room with 25 other waddling bumps was quite a surreal experience. it was funny watching people eye each other up and down.

Today's class was more of a introduction to the course, but as suspected it was a bit on the tame side. It's mostly about breathing and relaxing, with lots of labour chat thrown in. I don't have the best concentration span, so I really had to focus to stay with it.

I'm sure it will be beneficial over the next couple of months.

Friday, 31 October 2008

Deja vu

Today, I went to the gym twice. I cycled for an hour in the morning. I know I should cycle outside, but I haven't got round to putting the lights on my bike yet. Or more to the point, I haven't got round to asking Sonic to put the lights on bike :-) I was full of great intentions of going for a run after work, but ended up back at the gym. This time on the elliptical trainer for an hour.

Although I had bought in loads of chocolate in case we got any trick or treaters round, by the time Sonic and I made it home it was way past kids' bedtime. So now I'm going to have to eat it or hide it. I know I'm being a bit ditzy of late, I doubt I could forget where I had hidden the chocolate stash.

Wednesday, 29 October 2008

Back on the wagon

With a meagre four mile run. But hey, four miles is four miles. And it's another day that I can keep running. I think I'll stick to four miles a few times during the week and then a six/seven miler at the weekend. I'm putting no time limits on when I need to stop (although people keeps asking me), I'm just going with the flow. At present, all is good. Keeping my heart rate in check and just plodding along enjoying the ride. Towards the end of the tonight's run I had a pain in ass. No, it wasn't growing pains before you make any smart comments. Yes that's you, Waterman, Bell and Hall. Note to self: Do not call child David. It was more like a trapped nerve at the bottom of back. More of a niggle, rather than a pain. And my pelvis ached at the end of run. I'm guessing that's mostly to do with things shifting about a bit. That's my medical analysis anyway.

Had a midwife appointment this afternoon. Just the usual checkup, but with blood tests this time. Apparently I'm still a very healthy specimen, so got the green light to continue what I'm doing.

Monday, 27 October 2008

Mr Bean's weekend

Could someone please explain to me what's happened to my brain? I know short-term memory loss is viewed as part and parcel of being preggers, but I'm taking it to new level.

1) On Thursday night, Sonic had mountain rescue training. To be a little greener and save us taking two cars on a 50-mile round trip to work, I decided to travel in with him and get the train home. Nearing the end of my relaxing train trip home, Sonic called to tell me I'd left my house keys in the car. So he had to drive home and then over to the Beech Trees - making him 1/2 hour late.

2) Thankfully he wasn't annoyed as I got to return the favour on Friday night. I was staying at my Mum's (25 miles away) ahead of our Nessie hunting trip when Sonic called to say he got home to discover he'd lost his house key. So I had to drive back and give him my key.

To start with my tale of weekend blunders...

3) Whilst staying at the Drumnadrochit Hotel on Saturday, I woke up quite early on Sunday morning. The joy of the clocks going back. I thought it be nice to go for a relaxing bath, so I turned on the tap full blast...and then it got stuck. It wouldn't budge and we couldn't find anyone in the hotel to help. 45 mins later (after I'd practically emptied the loch down the plughole) whilst everyone and their granny had a shot at turning it off, a chef with a spanner saved the day. I was kind of over the whole bath thing by then.

4) After checking out, paying the bill and heading off in the car to go our loch cruise, I realised I had left my bag and camera case in the hotel reception. Doh! An about turn to recover the goods and we were on our way.

5) En route home, we stopped at the Green Welly for a break and a snack. As per normal Sunday afternoons, the place was packed. Whilst tucking into a nice slice of a homemade carrot cake, a loud voice came over the tannoy: "This is an urgent customer announcement..." I just knew it was for me. Oh yes, numbnuts here had left her purse and car keys sitting on the counter. Must have been the excitement of cake. Everyone knew it was me, as I lit up like the Ready Brek kid. As I skulked over the the burly chef who was shaking his head, I started mumbling something about pregnancy hormones.

I didn't get a chance to run over the weekend, but maybe that was a good thing. Even I can't be responsible for my own safety anymore :-) Back to it tomorrow though. Honest.

Friday, 24 October 2008

It's FRIDAY! :-)

Another working week in the bag. The time just flies by. I can't believe it's been 18 weeks since the WHW race. Putting it into that perspective, D-day is a frighteningly close 12 weeks away. I only get nervous thinking about how unorganised I am. I find it hard to get excited about baby shopping when I don't know whether it's a girl or a boy. Although I have made no secret that I really want a girl, I'm coming round to the fact that it could be a boy. I'm only preparing myself so I don't make a scene in the hospital. I've started by stopping telling people that if it's a boy it's going to be called "to-the-orphanage". Hey, it's a step in the right direction :-) Actually we only have a boy's name in mind - stuck for girls - so maybe that's a sign. So, until we know for sure, then it's a yellow baby. But without an abundance of yellow outfits. Sonic said he wanted to go out and buy the baby's going-home outfit...so the midget will probably be going home in some kitchen roll and a carrier bag. Either that or there will be a lot of phone calls. Probably panic calls to my Mum.

I did have a giggle whilst reading Davie Hall's blog. I was very impressed with his chat of domestic chores, shopping and cooking...before settling down to watch the football. Sonic watches the football, whilst I do the cooking. I'm sure he knows how good he's got it. He's totally sussed it out by playing the idiot. Here's an example:

Last weekend he was taking our microwave over to his Dad's (something faulty) so I asked him to give it a clean. Here's how the conversation went.

Me: Can you give it a quick clean before you take it?
Sonic: Does it need cleaned?
Me: Just a wipe down to make sure.
(Pregnancy hormone thinking: would I have f-ing asked if it didn't?)
Sonic: What needs cleaned?
Me: All over
(Pregnancy hormone thinking: the f-ing dirty bits)
Sonic: What should I clean it with?
Me: Just the multi-purpose spray
(Pregnancy hormone thinking: Why did I ask?)
Sonic: Shouldn't I use the oven cleaner?
Me: No the spray will do.
Sonic: But what if it gets on the food?
Me: It will be fine.
(Pregnancy hormone thinking: you're not cooking, it's going to get fixed)
Sonic: Should I use a cloth or a sponge?
Me: No words, just "the look"

And that, folks, is why it's better to do things yourself. He's not daft, is he? In his defense he is good with all the gadgets and electrical stuff in the house. Although I've got no idea how the DVD player works, why I can't switch on the lights without a remote control or what the toaster like storage machine is for.

Anyway I'm wibbering again. Sonic has been left to his own devices this weekend (fingers crossed he doesn't burn down the house), as I'm off Nessie hunting with my Niece. I hope she's not too shattered if she discovers the Loch Ness Monster is only a myth...or is it...

Have a nice weekend y'all.

BTW: I only ran once this week. Went to the gym three times and one yoga. Talk about slacking off.

Monday, 20 October 2008

Catch-up

It's hard to motivate myself to blog when I feel I'm wibbering on about the same stuff., but here goes...

Last week I ran a grand total of 17 miles. Four on Tuesday, six on Thursday and seven on Sunday. I pretty sure it's not classed as running as more, as I need to take more and more walking breaks. Hills are just a no-go area. During the last mile of my seven-miler yesterday, there's a incline that I didn't have the inclination to tackle, so I stopped to walk up. I thought I was walking quite briskly, but Jim Robertson stopped in his car and asked if I needed a lift. Oh the shame of it all %-)

The weather wasn't the best over the weekend. Wet, wild and windy. When I came back from my run yesterday - for reasons which escape me - I decided to cycle along with Sonic on his 13-miler. Now running into horizontal rain and wind is one thing, but cycling into these conditions is torturous. I even had to pedal frantically going downhill. I'm surprised I didn't crashed, as I pretty much had my head down for most of it. And I was more surprised I didn't spit the dummy and go home. Thankfully the last five miles the wind was behind us, so I finished the route feeling quite cheery. Albeit completely drenched. And as I hadn't been on my bike for a while, my ass was killing me.

Another shameful tale of the week: As Sonic and I got married over a year ago, I thought it was about time I got round to changing my name - especially with a new Consani on the way. You can imagine the shame of walking into the bank with a protruding midriff and a Las Vegas marriage certificate... and trying to explain that it in fact wasn't a shotgun wedding.

Book of the week: I previously blogged that I felt so unprepared and clueless on the subject of pregnancy. Now I've done a full 180 and want to know EVERYTHING. I'm a bit of a control freak, so I can get quite agitated when I don't know what's going on or if things don't go according to plan.



This weeks book - part of the collection courtesy of the Amazon delivery man - is Stand and Delivery. It's a humorous and insightful collection of useful and positive stories compiled by British journalist, Emma Mahoney. I love this book. Up until now, I've found that most books are far to medical and full of scare tactics. I'm really not worried or scared about childbirth. I'm more worried about the fact that I'm not worried. Actually I'm really looking forward to it. Does that make me strange?

Sunday, 12 October 2008

It ain't over 'til the fat lady sings!

And quite frankly there's a few miles left in me yet.

Today, I nervously agreed to participate in Milburn Harriers' 10-mile handicap race. I have only run 10 miles once since I found out I was preggers, so I was quite sceptical about my ability. Plus the route was over the Balloch Horseshoe, which has many, many cheeky hills. But hey ho, I thought I'd give it a bash. Worse case scenario would be throwing in the towel and walking round.

It was a gorgeous crisp (code for bloody freezing) and sunny day, so there was no excuse not to get out there and enjoy it. After going to the wrong place for the start we arrived just after the meeting time of 9am. Some of the runners had been sent off. My start time was 9:31am - based on last week's 10K time. I set off with two gals from Millies, but decided to push on after a mile. I was pretty sure they'd catch me on the hills, but I was on my own for the rest of the course - just passing a few runners who started earlier.

Apart from having to walk on a few of the steeper hills, I felt fantastic. I really enjoyed every minute of it. On the last mile, I spotted three of the early start runners in front of me. I tried to catch them, but they pipped me to the post by 20 seconds. They did say seeing me behind spurred them on.

I finished the 10.26m course in fourth position in 1:40:36... 7 minutes ahead of Sonic. the fact that I had a 43 minute head-start is neither here nor there.

Thanks to everyone at Milburn Harriers for letting us gatecrash the race. It was really nice to meet up with such great bunch of people. And the post-race homemade carrot cake and chocolate biscuits made the run really worthwhile. Trust me, Jim, carrot cake is one of your five a day.

Saturday, 11 October 2008

I won a trophy

And not just a little token effort, but I HUGE one.

At Garscube Harriers' annual awards presentation, I won the the award for "The Most Meritorious Performance". I have to admit it didn't come as a huge surprise as I organise the awards' do, so I knew who won everything. But I was surprised, shocked and stunned that people actually voted for me to win the award. I'm never going to be the fastest runner, so winning trophies is not not within my reach. Winning this is both the highlight and happy farewell to a fantastic year.

To recap, I won the award to setting PBs in all road races at the beginning of the year and for being the clubs' first female ultra distance runner - namely, the West Highland Way Race. I'm sure my support team's tales of woe and my relentless stubbornness were what swung the votes my way.

I couldn't have done it without the help of some fabulous people. Big thanks to Coach Lesley for my training plan. And the fact that I'm too scared of Lesley not to follow it with fine detail :-) Thanks to my support team (Sharon, Sara, Jill and Kas) who gave up two nights' of sleep to follow me along the WHW. Although I'm sure Jill was having her own little slumber party! If anyone would like to see the softer, patient and caring side to Kas - you should have been at Lundavra at 3am. Although I'm not convinced it wasn't one of my many hallucinations. And last but by no means least, thanks to Sonic - for ruining my run of great PBS! Hey, I still maintain I was sleeping at the time of conception. Just kidding. I'm sure I'll thank him for the "woman are stronger runners after childbirth" theory.

Well done to all awards winner. Especially to Sonic for winning the club marathon championship for the third year in a row. His little medal looks so cute next to my MASSIVE trophy :-) OK, I best point out that Sonic won the award in 2006. So now there's two Consanis on the plaque. No pressure Paul.





Pix from Loch Ness 10K



Friday, 10 October 2008

Friday fun

I think I'm going to have to change the name of my blog to "Debs on walk-jogging". That's what happens when you get a bit cocky. After feeling great during Sunday's race, I went out for a 6-miler on Tuesday and a 4-miler last night. Let's just things didn't go so well. I can say specifically what went wrong. My legs felt fine and my breathing was OK. Quite frankly, I just couldn't be a*sed. I think I'm just having a temporary loss of mojo, as I don't think it's time to hang up my trainers quite yet. Or maybe it's just running after work and not appreciating that I'm a little more tired than normal. Anyway in a vain attempt to keep going, I've ditched pace watching but I'm still wearing my Garmin so I can tally up my yearly mileage. Pace is not important and walking breaks are OK. It's just the motion of running that's key.

So other than feeling a bit knackered these days, things are all grand in Team Consani. I have to admit I'm getting more ditzy though. I'm usually quite freakishly organised, so I'm finding this new scatterbrained character quite embarrassing. I sure the receptionist at the gym thinks I'm completely mental. In the last month, I've managed to leave behind a swimsuit, sports bottle, my trainers and an ipod. Thankfully each time, a kind member has handed them in to lost property. But when I left my umbrella in there last Friday, I went and bought another. I couldn't face the shame.

Have a nice weekend y'all.

Congratulations to Thomas for running a fabulous time of 2:48:19 in the Cologne Marathon, beating Sonic's PB by a whopping four seconds. Thomas - thanks for the heads-up on the marathons with baby joggers. That's a great idea! And good luck to Mr and Mrs Pacepusher for this Sunday's Chicago Marathon

Monday, 6 October 2008

57 min jog round Loch Ness

Over the past few months, as suspected, I have got consistently slower. I did the women's 10K in May unaware that I was four weeks pregnant in 47 mins, the Paisley 10K at five months in 54 mins and yesterday's Loch Ness 10K in 57 mins. But what I have lost in time and the inclination to push myself, I have gained in the smugness that I can still run 6.2 miles at six months pregnant. And more to the point, I'm still really enjoy running.

The last time I did the Loch Ness 10K was in 2005, when I had an appalling race. I ended up getting completely lost (life before the Tom Tom) and when I finally found the start, had to jump out the car and start running pretty much straight away. After a 3.5 hour drive! This year's attempt wasn't less stressful. We got stuck at roadworks and then I had to wait in the queue for the toilets for 40 mins. I made it to the start with only a few minutes to spare.

The start was organised by race number and subsequent finishing times. I lined up in the 55 minute section, which is what I applied for. I thought giving my "condition", that this was a realistic position in the field. Bad move. I got completely held up by really slow runners for the first two miles. The narrow country roads weren't the best for passing. So there was a lots of bumping, near tumbles and numerous snide remarks. I probably expended far too much energy in the frustration to overtake, but at least I kept my gob shut.

From mile two onwards, I felt really good. Just a nice steady pace. I was hoping for under an hour, but I wasn't hell-bent on pushing myself to get it. I knew it was going to be my last race for a while, so I was more focused on simply enjoying it. It was such a lovely day - sunny and cool - and a great course, so it was hard not to enjoy it.

For the last few miles there was a small gang of runners around me, travelling at the same pace. There was a girl in the pink vest who seemed to be either one foot in front or one foot behind me. You always find there are people in a race that you just can't shake off, don't you? Anyway my lack of competitive spirit meant I wasn't rising to the bait. Even when she sprinted off for the finishing line. I crossed the finishing line in 57:36 and was completely delighted with my time. When passing through the finishers tunnel I congratulated the pink vest, who duly informed me that she was "determined to beat me". I did giggle and told her I had the upperhand being six months pregnant. Touche. I left her to pick up her jaw and went over to meet Sonic and the Pacepushers. Sonic finished in 36:27 and Pacepushers both got PB - a good tuner race for next week's Chicago Marathon. Fellow Garscubians Jill and Kathryn had great performances - 41 and 43 mins, respectively. And well done to WHW WAGS Katrina and Muriel.

The way the races were scheduled, we got to cheer on the marathon runners finishing. The first runner was home in 2:28. Congratulations to George, Sharon, Tim, Karen, George R, Ellen, Pauline, Fiona, John H and Crawford (and anyone else I missed) who all completed the marathon. Especially to those who have recently completed ultras. Davie B- you're a big poof! Just kidding, buddy. Hope your knee/IT recovers well.

On the way home, Sonic, Jill and I stopped off at a cafe in Fort Augustus for a post-race feast. They opted for the bake potato in haggis, whereas I was more reserved with the ol' tuna mayo. The highlight of the experience was the waitress (providing the usual Scottish hospitality) trying to explain to an American couple what Irn Bru tasted like. Hilarious. Almost as hilarious as when the male American tourist asked if I would stand in the middle of the road to take a picture of them outside the cafe. I honestly thought he was joking, but he really did want me to stand in the middle of the road. So there I was standing in the middle of the A82 on a sunny Sunday afternoon....just part of the adventure me thinks.

Wednesday, 1 October 2008

More blethering

Where does the time go? I can't believe it's been a week since my last posting of drivel. Who says pregnancy drags? Now that we're in October, I'm starting to have a slight panic about my distinct lack of preparation and knowledge. I was full of great intentions at the start. I have wonderful collection of books, magazines and DVDs, but no time. As the weeks fly past, I'm finding myself missing chapters in the book as I pass stages. I've also found that maybe ignorance is bliss after all. I'm not sure Sonic can cope with my shrieks of: "they f-ing cut you where?" And watching the baby channel is mashing my brain. I was glued to a programme about some tree-hugger who doesn't use nappies (diapers to my friends in the west), because her baby "tells" her when he needs the toilet. WTF? And then there's the high-drama delivery programmes. It's my new "car-crash viewing" - I know I shouldn't look, but I'm drawn to it.

So now that the holiday's over, I'm trying to get a bit more organised. You know what it's like, life always starts after an event. I spent the first half of the years saying: "Once the marathon is over" or "when the WHWR is over"...you miraculously think you're going to have all this spare time on your hands. In reality, there's always something else. In my case it should be baby prep, but oh no, what have Sonic and I decided to do? Oh sell our house and buy a bigger one! Perfectly planned timing, don't you think? What started out as a innocent browse on the net, has opened a HUGE can of worms. I've spent the last week or so cleaning, clearing, painting and general DIY-ing.

In the midst of it all my Mum dragged me out pram shopping. How was I to know that three months was leaving it a bit tight? Sonic (bless his heart) did volunteer to come with us, but even I wouldn't have subjected him to a Pram Centre day trip with my Mum, Gran and Sis. I think I'm still recovering from the experience. It's a mind field. The last time I was there was when my Sis was preggers with number two. I was amazed that everyone automatically looks at your midriff. I distinctly remembering sucking in my 24" waist so much that I nearly passed out from oxygen deprivation. This time there was no hope. I just joined the ranks of the bump brigade. I think mums-to-be should be given badges with their due on it when they enter the shop. I mean, how am I supposed to compare myself without this knowledge? Tut! Anyway, meanwhile back at the ranch, I choose a pram. Not after much debating, testing and the mandatory fight with my Mum about who was going to pay. She won. I have to mention that the humorous highlight of the experience was the shop assistant who kept asking my Sister what she was looking for in a pram. Ha ha. It's a good job she's thick-skinned. We had to go to Pizza Hut to get over it ;-)

Anyway, back to running. A couple of weeks ago, I really thought my running days were numbered. It was a real chore and I wasn't enjoying it. Now I've put that blip down to post-holiday fatigue, as I had a fabulous seven mile run on Sunday morning and a great run last night. Mind you, the cooler temperatures are more to my liking now. I think having a winter baby was great accidental planning.

This Sunday I'm running - OK, participating in - the Loch Ness 10K. There's quite a gang of us heading up to Inverness to take part in the Marathon or the 10K, so good luck to everyone. Try not to choke on the post-race beers.

Wednesday, 24 September 2008

Still here

Fret not, I haven't delved into a life of family-size bars of chocolate or banana pizzas yet. I'm still alive. And I'm still keeping pretty active. I haven't blogged for a couple of weeks because, quite frankly, I've got nothing much to write about. There's no variety to my training, no new route or glorious hills. Just me plodding away with no real goals. No pace or distance drivers. I just want to stay fit and run until my body tells me otherwise. If I can continue to run a few miles a few times a week, then I'll be happy. I still have to endure the disapproving looks of those who don't agree of pregnant exercising. I nearly lost the rag with someone at work who hissed "that's so DANGEROUS" when I told him that I was still running. I was very close to screaming: F-k off. But managed to smile and control my boiling blood and remind him that as long as don't raise my heart rate too much and it doesn't hurt then it's perfectly safe...And then called Sonic and called said person everything under the sun.

I suppose like all pregnant gals, I do get a worried in case anything I do does harm the baby. If (heaven forbid) anything were to go wrong, then the fingers would point at my active lifestyle. Right now I'm just going on the basis (and fact!) that maintaining a level of fitness is good for me and the baby. And for every negative person, there's a positive person patting me on the back for not sitting with my feet up watching soaps.

Now at week 24, my body is telling me (OK, forcing me) to slow down. When I'm at the gym, I've turned the levels down a notch and I'm limited to around 10 m/m when running. I can really feel the extra weight taking it's toll. I've put on 15lbs! Yes Sharon, I've finally tipped the stone mark. I promise I'll never smirk at a overweight or big-busted runner every again. It's tough. Even stairs are a struggle.

For once in my life, I'm not obsessing about food. I am trying to eat healthy though. But without the calorie and fat content counting. I'm eating a lot more bread and cereals than I normally would, but I've really cut down on protein. Before I usually always had chicken or fish for dinner. Now the only time I eat it is between two slices of bread. I suppose I've just gone off it. I don't have any cravings per se. Personally I think that's a bit of a myth. I just like some foods more than others just now. The body is a very clever machine and will let your know what you need. I may have to wean the baby off cottage cheese and spaghetti and toast though.

So onwards and upwards - or outwards in my case. All is well in Camp Consani. Sonic is still getting all my pregnancy symptoms, but he's soldiering on. What a trooper :-)

Tuesday, 16 September 2008

Post-holiday blues

Back from Vietnam. Had a fabulous time. The trekking was pretty challenging in 100 degree heat, but I lived to tell the tale. Actually there's a full holiday tale in progress - once I get round to writing up my travel journal. Watch this space. In the meantime here's a pic of my week 22 belly, which was taken on the last day of my hols. I think I'm having a noodle baby :-)



And here's a picture of my nephew, Jack, in his new t-shirt.

Monday, 1 September 2008

Good luck y'all

Best of luck to everyone running in next week's Great Scottish Run. And to Kas and Rob for the Moray marathon and half. I'll be thinking of you all. Well, maybe for a brief fleeting moment.

See you later. I'm off to 'Nam.

Ps: Check out Tom's blog for a video of our hike last month. I'm sure Dirk didn't mean to take as much footage of my ass :-)

Sunday, 31 August 2008

Paisley 10K

Today I dragged my chubby body and tired legs round the Paisley 10K. Bagging two Munros the day before isn't ideal preparation for a race, but hey, who's taking it seriously? Actually my legs probably weren't as achy as they should be.

You know you're in Paisley when you get to race registration and two of the runners are outside smoking. Now that's a challenge! To them, anything less would be cheating.

It was nice to start a race feeling so relaxed. I perched up near the back of the pack, as I thought it would be best to overtake rather than be trodden on. My legs were a little stiff for the first few kilometres, but at least I didn't walk - like some did. Once I'd loosened up my muscles I would good to go. The only thing that holds me back is my oxygen supply.

It was a pretty muggy day, so I felt quite dehydrated. Especially considering I didn't drink anything prior to the race - I was determined to get round without stopping :-) So as we rounded the corner at 4K, the marshall directed us along the left side of road - when the water station was on the right!? There was a wee guy dodging the traffic and running across with cups of water. Call me old fashioned, but wouldn't it have made more sense to carry the water table over the road? So I missed the water stop. And when I got to the station at 7K, there a queue for a serve-yourself water canister. I ran through that one too. That aside, it was a great race. Fabulous new course, which takes out the misery of the steep hill at 9K. It was well organised and well marshalled and there were pipers or drummers at every kilometre mark.

I felt really good the whole way round. And I really felt I ran well, considering. Steady and comfortable. I finished in 54.34, which I was really pleased with. Six months ago I would have probably thrown myself off a bridge, but I won't be comparing times for a while. Now it's just about staying fit and healthy and participating in the joy of races. Plus, I can't let Sonic catch up medals. I'll be back next year to better it. Well, hopefully :-)

Spilts: 9.10, 9.07, 9.15, 9.17, 8.55, 8.42

After twisting Sonic's arm to sign-up, he put in a sterling effort and finished in 29th position with 36:43. A few minutes of his PB, but much better than he expected.

Saturday, 30 August 2008

My 100th Munro

I finally hit the magic 100. I started Munro bagging in May 2005 with a leisurely jaunt up Ben Lomond. Having completed two marathons and various 10Ks and half-marathons, I thought hillwalking would be a breeze. Pah! I could barely walk for four days. Walking downstairs was virtually impossible. Thankfully three years on, my legs are a little more hill savvy.

Today, I bagged the other two Munros on Black Mount - Stob Ghabhar an Stob a Choire Odhair.







On the Aonach Eagach ridge. Probably just as well that we couldn't see the drops below.



A little misty?



100 down. Only 184 to go %-)

Friday, 29 August 2008

Let the holiday begin

Last night I went up to Garscube training. I ran with Kas, who is the first person I've ran with since I found out I was preggers. I suppose I've just felt more comfortable doing my own thing of late. I can stop for a breather, walk, take it easy or jump behind bush if I like. Considering Kas was my final support runner in the final stage of the WHW, she's seen me in a MUCH worse state. The 5.91 mile route (top gate, anniesland, southbrae, danes, anniesland road, home)took us 56.28. Average 9.33 m/m. I felt pretty good, but the hills are really starting to take their toll. And I bowed out of joining Kas on her sprint finish.

I went to the gym before work this morning for my usual cross-training and swim. I'm quite motivated, so getting up early is never really a problem for me. Just don't ask me to stay up past 10pm. The main challenge is the morning is getting Sonic out of bed to come with me. When I wake him at 5.50am, he rolls about squealing like a lobster in boiling water for about five minutes. Today, I took the cruel option in a vain attempt to speed up the process and pulled the covers off him. With a swinging arm tried to grab the disappearing sheet...and whacked himself in the goolies. You can't buy that kind of entertainment :-)

I've finished up at work for two whole weeks. Woohoo! We're off to Vietnam on Tuesday for a spot of sightseeing and wee bit of trekking. Can't wait. I'm starting to feel a little worn out, so I'm actually looking forward to the 15-hour flight.

Thursday, 28 August 2008

The best baby card EVER!

Over the past couple of months we have received lots of beautiful cards from family and friends, but my buddy Anita went over and above her usual creative genius to send her congratulations. Anyone who knows Anita, knows she doesn't do thing by halves. We had a club karaoke a couple of years ago, and she came dressed as Kylie. Always one to entertain, you'll find her singing and dancing on the stages of Glasgow. But yesterday, she put the biggest smile on our faces when this dropped through the letterbox.

Double click on the image to see full effect.






In the pic: Paul, Sharon, Anita, Kas, Sara and Jill


Pull the tab and the blogs scroll down!


Complete with bump


Baby in Garscube Harriers kit

Wednesday, 27 August 2008

Midweek mayhem

I had a bit of a nippy head last night, so called off my planned four-mile run. Instead I had my spaghetti hoops (yep, still on them) and went to bed at 8.30pm. Unfortunately that meant I was awake at 3.30 this morning. I lay listening to the torrential rain batter off the window until it was time to go to the gym. I was quite organised last night and left my gym gear next to the bed, ready to 'jump' into. I wasn't sensible enough not to leave them under the open window though. Doh!

So 30 minutes on the elliptical trainer and then off for a cooling swim. I did 40 lengths of breast stroke and then 10 in front crawl. I swear I haven't done front crawl since I left school. Being raised in Dubai, swimming was a big thing at my school. Mind you, so was x-country (or x-desert). Both of which I rejected until well into my adulthood. All went well and I didn't drown. I did however gulp a bit too much water and let out a accidental belch, which seemed to echo round the pool area. Die. I couldn't even pretend it wasn't me, as everyone within earshot (and it was a massive burp) turned to look at me. There are not many places to hide your shame when your only option is airless. I'm sure you could have heard hissing when my red face hit the water.

I went out for a fabulous four-mile run when I got home. I felt the best I have done in ages. It was a lovely fresh evening with a cool breeze. I just did my usual route round Balloch. Average pace was 8.59 m/m.

I've got a hospital appointment on Friday, so I blew the dust off my pregnancy week-by-week book for some last minute swotting. I nearly keeled over in fits when I read this bit: "don't bother with expensive maternity wear. Just wear some leggings and borrow your partner's T-shirts". WTF? Who could suggest such a cardinal sin. My thoughts are: as my normal clothes get tighter, I go shopping. Pregnancy is to be enjoyed. And fretting and mopping about about what to wear would be unbearable. Well, that's my excuse for my additional purchases to my new collection.

Sunday, 24 August 2008

Another two Munros

Nine of us (and Merry, the dog) headed out on a rainy Sunday morning to bag the two Munros on Black Mount - Meall a Bhuiridh and Creise.

The initial ascent was tough. Very steep grassy slopes with lots of loose rocks. We later discovered that Sonic (who was in charge of navigation) took us on the reverse circuit route to "make it a longer day". There was almost a queue to push him off. Mind you, once we were up the ridge was pretty straight forward and the route down to the ski tracks into Glencoe made the descent a doodle.

The pictures are quite deceptive, as I only took my camera out when there was a break in a rain.





If you want rainbows, you've got to put up with the rain - or so Dolly Parton would say.





No Sonic hadn't fallen in the river. It really was that wet.









The Crazy German