The need for speed

And boy do I need to do some speedwork. I want to add some variety and feel light on my feet. I haven't really done any speedwork since before London Marathon last year. After that I toned it down for the WHWR. Now I just feel like I'm plodding along quite happily. But moaning because I'm not getting any faster. Some may define insanity as : doing the same thing over and over again, but expecting different results.

So this week was the start of my new training regime. Not that there's a regime per se. Just a want to take the bull by the horns. Not that you'd catch me near a bull you understand, but you get the drift*.

Anyway on Monday I did 1K reps. Don't get excited, I did three. I learnt back in February - when I got injured for two weeks - not to push it too quickly. So I discovered at 1000m loop round the block of houses next to me and off I went. The first one was torture, but the second and third were better. 4:28, 4:23 and 4:18. Blogging those times should shame me into working harder.

On Tuesday night, I went out for a seven-miler. I couldn't face running through Alexandria again, so I drove up to the start of the Balloch Horseshoe and did a seven-mile loop round Gartochan. It's a fab undulating country road. Plenty of nasty hills to get the heart-rate up. I started out (not feeling too energised) thinking I was going to go easy, but decided to pick up the effort level. Total time 57.56, Average 8.16. 8.50, 8.10, 8.24, 8.09, 8.11 and 8.21.

This weekend I've got two "races". Said in the loosest term as tomorrow I'm the sweeper in the Bearsden & Milngavie 10K. Jeez I hope the last runner isn't too fast for me :-) Would it be wrong to sprint finish? Ha ha. I think finishing behind the sweeper would be wrong. I hope it's not raining. Best pack a stick just in case.

On Sunday I'm pacing Brother Sonic's girlfriend, Gillian, round to get under the hour in the Vale of Leven 10K. Gillian, if you're reading - No parties tomorrow night. I want fire in your belly, not vodka! And if you even consider taking over an hour, I may have to DNF at 6.1 miles. Just kidding, my lovely. I'll ask to be omitted from the results instead :-) See me, see motivational chat.

* This brings me on to another subject. Not bulls, but cows. Why are cows scared from everyone except me? They don't cower away more me, they come at me. A few weeks ago when I was out walking on a country road with Cairn, there was one that came pounding towards me and followed me along the hedge line moo-ing it's head off. I know she was protecting her calf, but it was Cairn who had to protect me. And then last week I was out on the cycle route in the Baby Jogger. Part of the path to Dumbarton cuts across a field and over a bridge. Fine on the way out, but on the way back there was a large herd of cows. I tried but I just couldn't muster up the courage to approach. I was considering turning back, but saw a cyclist to approaching. So along came a 70+ man on a 70+old bike and dispersed them. I hung on behind him, but as soon as he was gone they all came bounding back over. I swear it should have been filmed for youtube. Me pushing a jogger at break-neck speed whilst turning every second and squealing like an idiot. I have since googled "cows that kill" and there are many tales to be told. Try it.

Garscube Harriers' WHW relay race

Yesterday was the annual WHW relay race. This involved four teams covering the 12 sections and 95 miles of the route. It's more social, rather than competitive. Or maybe that's my excuse for not taking it seriously.

I was running the Bridge of Orchy to Kingshouse section (12 miles) but decided to carry on to Kinlochleven to take in another section and another 9 miles. It was strange finishing a "race" and starting a training run. But it even stranger finishing a training run in Kinlochleven. It's always been the half-way house to Fort William.



(Passing Victoria Bridge)



(Delighted it's all over)

As you will see from the results, I was in the last team. That's three years in a row. I think I'm a jinx.



It's when you look at these results to realise our superhuman Jez and Lucy are. Their course records (15:44 and 17:16) are pretty close to our team efforts of 12 runners.

Although the jury's out on results from the winning team A. Last runner Lesley got lost - ended up on the Lundarva road - and had to get a lift back to Fort William. Mmm, you go figure. Although she is 21 weeks preggers, so she can get away with anything :-) She ran the Helensburgh 10K at couple of weeks ago in a very impressive 44 minutes. I think her PB is like 36 minutes, or something rediculously fast. When I informed her that her pregnant best was faster than my PB she offered to pace me round the Clydebank 10K. I had to politely decline. Can you imagine the shame of being paced by a pregnant gal %-) To be fair, she would probably be more embarrassed finishing in my time.

The sun can take its hat off now

I must confess, I'm kinda glad this heat wave malarkey is nearly over. I know I'm quintessentially British and will therefore moan about the weather regardless, but I've so had enough. For those outwith the British Isles, when I say heatwave I mean 25 degrees. That's generally the height of the great Scottish summer. It would be lovely if you could spend your days with a book and some pink lemonade whilst someone sparks up the barbie. But in reality, I have a car with no air-conditioning (an excuse to use Sonic's), I work in a windowless cupboard and Cairn and I have so much sunblock on we look like THE shiniest people in the world.

Being of the fair and freckled skin variety, I'm quite fanatical about sunscreen. Sonic - relying on his fading Italian genes - isn't. I've had many a full-scale barney with him as he refuses to wear anything more than SPF8. And that's only after being fried. Anyway, whilst spectating at the Edinburgh on Sunday, I didn't even bother. So after four hours of baking he succumb to the high factor. Too late though as his bare feet (exposed for the first time in years) had taken the brunt. Now he has a lovely red flip-flop design on his feet. I'd post a picture, but my blog would be shut down for health and safety reasons.


(Sonic and Cairn at Edinburgh Marathon)

Well done to everyone who survived the heat (and empty water stations!) at the Edinburgh Marathon. Special congrats to Jill, Maz, Kaz and Anita who were running their first marathon. And to the Crazy Germans and Pacepushers. Usually I feel quite jealous watching races, but this time I was quite happy to only have sore hands from clapping. Oh and a very sore throat, as I was screaming like a banshee.

Despite my dislike of running in hot weather, I have managed quite a few runs. I was out with the baby jogger again last Friday. I don't know whether it was the heat or sore arms, but I had a stinker of a seven-miler. I was so glad it was over. I didn't get a chance at the weekend, but did some step reps on Monday night and a 10-miler last night - three minutes slower, but I actually quite enjoyed it.

Stop press: Sonic and I have found a TV programme we both like. I don't usually have the concentration span to sit and watch a full programme. Sonic always gets annoyed, as I get up and wander off to potter about. I do, however, love a bit of reality TV. Britain's Got Talent, X-factor, Big Brother - all the cr*p of the day really. But I don't do soaps or anything you have to follow. Anyway, our Skybox is full of Sonic's faves: Heroes, Lost, Fringe, Terminator, Prison Break and some very bizarre documentaries. All of which I don't really understand. I kid you not, he once sat through a documentary on how to make windscreen wipers. Really! As my eyes were boring into the side of his head he casually said "it's only got 15 minutes left". That was 15 minutes of my life I'll never get back. I digress...has anyone seen Lie to Me? It rocks! And we both like it. But now that Britain's Got Talent has finished it's time to start with Big Brother and America's Got Talent (which always has a special class of nutter) woohoo!

Good luck message from Cairn

To everyone running in Edinburgh. This is everything you need to know about running a marathon :-) Sound advice really.



Get your suncream out. After looking at the forecast I fear the sweat with be running faster than most legs.

Baby jogging debut

The time has come to get the new wheels on the road. My lovely Baby Jogger Performance Series has been locked in its box in the spare room for months - eagerly awaiting the day that Cairn was big and sturdy enough to ride in it.

Sonic bought me it for Christmas. Apparently it was a "Sh*t present" but it was what I wanted. Actually I said to Sonic that we should cap our Christmas expenditure at £250, as the year before we had gone a bit OTT. When he asked why, I replied "obviously the thing I want is £250" :-)

So today was our debut performance. I started working early so I could take Cairn out for a spin at lunchtime. Jeez by the time I'd got everything sorted I was so over it.

Here's a picture of Cairn in his Baby Jogger. You can tell he's distinctly underwhelmed by the experience. He's got a look that says: "When I can speak, I'm going to tell everyone I'm adopted". I know he's secretly wishing he'd going to wake up in the reality TV show or that someone is going to slip up and call him Truman.

The Baby Jogger is light and easy to maneuver, but it doesn't mean it's easy to run with. It will definitely take a bit of getting used to. I liken it to the first time I ran with a waist/back pack. I thought it was a restrictive nightmare at first, but now it's second skin. Regardless of the mechanics, I'm still pushing over two stone in front of me (Cairn is now 16lbs!). My arms ached from the word go, so hopefully continued use might strengthen them.

Today I managed a 10-mile out-and-back over to Croftamie. It's a undulating country road, so only a handful of cars passed me. I'm going to use the Jogger on quiet roads and cycle paths. No bumps and pavements. Today I drove up to the start of the road though. Not only because I didn't want to tackle pavements, but I don't think Alexandria is quite ready for a Baby Jogger. It would just look like I'd stolen a baby.

Four days on the Way

It's only 10 weeks until the Devil o' the Highlands and I'm having a slight panic. I know many readers of this blog will think that 43 miles with a little tiny 5000ft in ascent is a walk in the park. Though for every one of you, there's a million who think it just plain stupid. But for me it's my biggest (running) challenge of the year and one that's making me slightly edgy right now.

The first time I did this race in 2007, I was a little cocky to say the least. I distinctly remember sending Sonic a weblink with the subject title "Fancy this?" My reasoning was: "surely if we can run a marathon, we can walk/jog this?". Pah! We did one training run - from Kingshouse to Fort William - which nearly had me in crutches for a week. I was truly and utterly broken. You know the runs that have you practically in tears towards the end? Let's just say I wasn't so cocky after that. I wasn't even sure I would make to the end of the race let alone make it within the 12 hour cut off time. But somehow I scraped my sorry ass over the finishing line in 8:48. It was certainly a life changing experience. Now our whole lives revolve around the glorious trails of the West Highland Way. Cairn has seen more trails than the inside of his crib. Thankfully he's so happy and content, that we can take him anywhere.

So in the midst of my panic I decided to take in two long runs over the bank holiday weekend. As Sonic was taking part in the two-day training weekend, it involved regimental planning: three shopping trips, two cars, a caravan, 450 miles of driving and 120 miles of running. Not to mention drop-off bags, checkpoint pit stops and the small matter of a small child.

My first run was from Kingshouse to Fort William. Just a piddly 23.5 miles with 3000ft of ascent. The main aims were to finish it, enjoy it and feel better than I did on my first attempt. Big tick on all three. I loved it. It was a glorious sunny day and I felt brilliant the whole way. It was great having Sonic as support, although his skills aren't as fine-tuned as mine. When I got to Kinlochleven he was in full-on panic because Cairn needed feed AND changed. As babies do. And when I got to Lundarva he was busy cleaning his car with babywipes. WTF? He did turn up in all the right places and tell me I looked good, even thought he was telling fibs. I have learnt of late what difficult, often tedious and thankless task supporting is, so I really appreciate my boys coming out.

I did (kind of) return the favour by supporting Sonic on his two-day adventure. I let him take my car and leave it at Balmaha. Surely that's helping? I didn't make it up until the troops (Sonic, JK, Sharon and Davie) were over the lochside. Davie had texted me en route and me to pick him up, as his ITB was giving him jip. No problem thought I. I'd soon be passing his pick-up point. What he neglected to mention was that he wasn't actually there yet... before he dissappeared out of mobile signal. I drove up and down the A82, in out of the farm road and back and fourth to Tyndrum. I couldn't get hold of anyone and couldn't find Davie. I was convinced he was hiding in bushes laughing at me. I swear the Nazis could have found Anne Frank quicker. By the time I found Sonic et al I was a bit on the ratty side. They duly informed me that the abandoned Davie was behind them. One more drive down the road and there he was. Looking like a drowned rate. And smelling like a wet dog. Nevertheless, he was still upbeat - considering.

After having dinner in the Bridge of Orchy Hotel and a night at the Pinetrees in Tyndrum, Sonic set off on day two of JK's pacing class. Late. Maybe he slowed down his pace a bit too much. Actually maybe that's why he goes off too fast at the beginning - because he's always late and has to catch up on time? Mmm there's food for thought.

I spent the day with Mrs JK, Dr Crazy German and Davie. At least we knew when Sonic and JK would be arriving. You can set your heart by JK's timings. When I asked Mrs JK what her thoughts were on ETAs she said with a smirk: "What, you don't have a laminated sheet with splits and pace?" I'm sure it would have been useful if we referred to it. I think JK was a little close to spitting the dummy as I continued to ask him about arrival times. Obviously not referring to said laminated sheet.

So Monday, it was back to my turn for running. I opted to run back to Balmaha to pick up my car. The original plan was to spend Sunday night in the caravan and run along the loch back to Balmaha. But after spending a rainy Sunday in the car, I couldn't face being coped up in another tin can, so we just drove home.

My quads were still very tendor, but I thought I'd give it a bash. I even put the bus timetable in my rucksack in case I decided to bow out early. I ran over the horseshoe to meet the WHW before Drymen. I took it easy and wasn't even remotely bothered that I reached Drymen three minutes behind last week's time. In hindsight the reserved pace meant I could run all the way to the bottom of Conic Hill - even the nasty inclines. And even managed to run up about 40% of Conic. My quads were only causing me grief on the downhills. Actually it took me 19 mins to get up Conic Hill and 16 mins to come off the other side. I think I mentally yelped the whole way down. Despite the slow start I finished one minute faster than last week and felt a million times better. Proper pacing definitely makes a huge difference. Doesn't it. Sonic?

On another note: On the way back from Fort William on Sunday we discussed the changes being made on the West Highland Way. Horrible new gates, removing stiles, clearing forest, detour paths etc... All because of health and safety. You can tell the decision makers have never walked the WHW. This is my favourite H&S hazard - on the way to Drymen.

The path over the bridge often floods.


Which forces hikers/runners to walk along the small wall. Don't want to get wet feet afterall.


But steady those wobbly legs as there's 30ft drop on to the rocky river below.


Maybe I shouldn't have pointed this out. There will probably be a handrail there next week.

Multitasking

This weekly blogging is becoming a bit of a habit. Maybe I'm not superwoman after all. I'm mean with being a full-time working Mother (minus the childcare), 247 milk machine, maid, cook, coach and wannabe athlete, you'd think I'd have loads of time on my hands. Thankfully I'm a member of the fairer sex and just get on with it. Although I did take it to a new level last week I was feeding Cairn, making the dinner and replying to emails on my Blackberry at the same time.



So I've been back working for the last couple of weeks. Well, working from home. I wasn't sure I was motivated enough, but I actually get loads more done. And I'm lovin' it. Not that I've ever been away from work you understand. Sonic used to threaten to confiscate my Blackberry.

Although I love hanging out with Cairn, I'm so not cut-out to be a stay-at-home-Mom. I did try the baby group thing. A baby massage class, in fact. The first couple of weeks were great. But by week five we were still talking about our childbirth experiences and breastfeeding, so I losing the will to live. Maybe they were a little more wholesome than me. Especially when they were excitedly telling me about the Baby Rhythm Time class they go to on a Friday morning. I found myself saying: "oh that would be lovely" when really I thinking: "I'd rather stab myself in the eye with a rusty compass". I never went back.

I have converted the room (uh hum, cupboard) under the stairs into my office. Now I know how Harry Potter felt. I spend many long hours without even a window for sanity. I pretty much start work as soon as I get up. Given the light mornings, can be as early as 5am. When we move house, I promise I'm going to buy black-out blinds. My early morning meanderings could be grounds for divorce. The only thing with working from home, is there's no cut off point. No 9 to 5. So I could be sitting at my PC at 6am and still working at 10pm.

I'm usually up and organised before Cairn even stirs. And he sleeps through the night. I know, I've been blessed. Actually there was a day last week, when I had to wake him up at 9.45am. Not because it might mess up his routine, but because I was starting to look like Lola Ferrari. Anyway, I wished I had left him sleeping. Within the space of 30 minutes he'd puked on me, peed on the carpet and sh*t in the bath. Babies, eh? Can't live with 'em. Can't sell them on Ebay :-)

This week it's been a hard slog trying to fit in some running and general exercise. On Tuesday night, I did my usual 10-mile on the Balloch Horseshoe. Sonic always mocks me for running the same routes all the time. Does anyone else do this? I don't usually like a route until I've done it a few times. On Thursday, I did my usual seven mile tempo run round Dumbarton. See me, see creature of habit.

But wait, On Saturday I pushed the boat right out and did something different - I ran from the house (via Drymen) to Balmaha. OK it starts on the Balloch Horseshoe and I have ran from Drymen to Balmaha more times than I can mention, but I've never linked it all together. And I've never done the bit in the middle. Does this count? Wow what a great route. Undulating country roads, peaceful cycle paths and then onto the West Highland Way before Drymen. I knew this was going to be a tough 18.5 mile run, but I didn't really flag until I got to Conic Hill. I was pretty glad my journey would be over at the other side. I tried to run as much as I could, but was reduced to walking at the mega steep bits. Except when I jogged past a group of hikers and I overheard one saying "Look, there's a fell runner". Oh boll*cks! I felt obliged to keep going to save face. Thankfully the wind was behind me on the way up, but it didn't help on the descent on the other side. Being pushed off a steep muddy hill in road shoes wasn't pleasant. And the fact that my quads were screaming didn't help. Hopefully giving my legs are good kickin' should see me right for my first long run on the WHW - Kingshouse to Fort William. It's my favourite section, so I can't wait.



total time 3:19. Average pace 10:56 m/m

My first post-baby race

The Women's 10K in Glasgow. It was my first ever race, so it's a bit like a birthday celebration for me. I don't think I would have signed up for this year's if it wasn't for the fact that I want to do it every year. Even if I have to crawl round (don't quote me on that). Today would be race number 8. I had no idea what to expect. I haven't done any speed work for over a year. And the 10Ks I did when I was preggers were just for giggles.

Basically I'm starting from a clean slate. A new personal best (PB) is now a new post baby (PB). Over the last two months it's been great monitoring the improvement ever time I go out. Hopefully this will continue until I meet and surpass where I left off.

Today's run was great. I loved every minute of it. How often do you get to say you loved a 10K? I think it was the no pressure and no preconceived ideas of time/splits/pace. I just started out steady and maintained the effort the whole way. I crossed the line in 48:57 with a huge smile, as it was way better than I had expected. I finished 324 out of 10740 runners, so I'm delighted. I think that's top 3%. Not bad for my first race back. It's onward and upwards me thinks.



Average pace: 7:49 Splits: 7:50, 8:01, 7:42, 7:56, 8:06, 7:31.

And for anyone who thinks this race is flat, here's proof that there are a few cheeky hills.



The race was won by Linet Masai in 31:30. Check out the picture I found on Flickr. Big Rob (worse than a man down) rubbing shoulders with the elite :-)

Bits 'n' bobs and a 10K

I know, it's been a while. There's been a fair amount of running, but not a lot worth wibbering about. Plus I don't have the time or the inclination to bore you to death with a mile-by-mile report. And there isn't much point listing: I ran eight miles. The pace was 8 m/m. It was sunny. I liked it. Yada yada.

So, here's a synopsis of my running week. At the club training weekend, I was VERY well behaved. Well, for me anyway. I blame Jill on forgetting the Playstation leads, so we couldn't have a Singstar competition. Resorting to playing Pictionary on a flipchart using Trivia Pursuit answers (don't ask)...is enough to send anyway for an early night.

On the Sunday I had volunteered to join Kas on a 20 miler. Kas is running the Edinburgh Marathon at the end of the month, and this run was to be the tip of the training plan run. I knew it was a bit of jump for me - the longest run this year being 14 miles - but I figured as I was running with Kas my ears would ache more than my legs :-) As we were up in Callander we used the number 7 cycle route - which I'm sure Mark Beaumont used to cycle round the world. Is there anywhere that path doesn't go? The weather was nice, cool and clear. Perfect for a long run. The plan was to pace Kas round on 10m/m. We remained pretty steady, but by 12 miles my thighs were killing me. Long suffering readers of this blog may recall I had problems with my adductors and hips a while back. You may also remember I always refer to them as adductors, as I refuse point blank to call is groin strain. It's so graphic and 5-aside-like. So anyway, it was pretty long drawn out journey to the end. Kas was practicing with gels, which she duly informed me "didn't agree" with her. On the contrary, I've never seen her so happy. It was like she'd been plugged into the mains. Despite being adamant that she would take over four hours, we finished in 3:18. Kas is a sensible (pah! I'll never say that again) even paced runner, so I predict 4:15 for her marathon.

On Sunday night, I was buckled. I couldn't sit, stand or lie down. My thighs had their own pulse. I had to go to bed early as I was starting to annoy myself with my constant whining. I was pretty sure I would be out of running for a while, but on Monday morning I felt way better. And on Tuesday I did a fabulous five-miler - with one minute intervals from mile two. Thursday night I ran eight mile with the club. And that, folks, is it. Ta da. One brief summary.

I took Friday and Saturday off, as I always like two days rest before a race. Women's 10K tomorrow. Sonic had signed up for the Cateran Trail 23 today, so I thought I'd be the dutiful wife and go along for support. I did tell him that if we had to get up at the crack of dawn and drive forever to get there for the early start, that he would have to organise himself. I would sort out myself and Cairn. I always mock Sonic for being "hand-knitted". A delightfully apt phrase that I picked up from the aforementioned Kas. The one who refers to her husband as "worse than a man down". In Sonic's defense he doesn't have much of an option. I'm a complete control freak that must do EVERYTHING. But I did laugh when I told him he had to go shopping to get the stuff he needs to eat before/during/after the race and he responded: "No problem. What will I want to eat?" In all seriousness too. And this is why I say I have two children to organise.

Club run and pre-weekend frenzy

This weekend we're off to Callander for the annual Garscube Harriers' training weekend. I say training in the loosest way possible. It's usually a bit of a messy affair. There's traditionally a lot of late boozing, a Singstar competition and very dodgy morning runs. Actually one year I was so ill, I pretended I had a stop to tie my lace...waited until everyone was out of view and went back to bed.

This year I'll need to be a little more sensible. Not only will be have Cairn on tow, but Coach Lesley will be there to keep us line. Plus, I've probably been drinking too much for a gal who's supposed to be exclusively breastfeeding. There seems to be more bottles being introduced. Bottles of wine for me. And bottles of formula milk for Cairn. Thankfully Cairn - like Sonic - doesn't mind where his food comes from. As long as it's frequent and in abundance. I swear he would suck milk off a dirty cloth. Cairn that is, not Sonic.

So I've had two girlie nights with my Sis and Sharon, which have ended less than graceful. And I was at the Scottish Press Awards at the Radisson last week: In a dress, with make-up, lady shoes and a very, very small bag. It felt a little strange going out with light luggage. Anyway like all awards ceremonies, there were a lot of audience quiet moments, which unfortunately meant too much of the complimentary wine was consumed. I did laugh when the invite said the bar would be open until 3am. I'm pretty well-known for my inability to function after 10pm. The only way I would see 3am is if I needed a pee of a pillow fluff-up. I did think 11.30 would be do-able though. But I texted Sonic at 10.30pm asking if he would come and pick me up as I was "tipsy and tired". In reality I descended the marble staircase like I'd just been shot. I probably only had the equivalent of 3/4 glasses of wine - which were diluted with soda - but I gibbered utter p*sh all the way home and suffered from the wrath of the grape on Friday. Every time I half-heatedly sign the pledge never to drink wine again, but it's just too good. Pity the love is unrequited.

Anyway. Running. Let's talk about running. This evening I went out with the club. Not without precise planning though. I meet Sonic at his office and picked up his gear, whilst he went on a six mile run up to Bearsden. I drove up to the club, feed Cairn and then handed the parental duties over to Sonic. Reminding him not to throw him in the air as he's only three months old. Sometimes is best not to know what they get up to. When I came back from my run on Tuesday, Sonic excitedly informed me: "Look! He's eating banana". Help me, Boab.

I'm digressing again. Tonight's run was an "out and back". The plan was to run out (along the f-king canal!!) for 25 minutes and then turn and run the same distance back in the same time. It's supposed to be about even pacing, but I felt pretty rubbish when I set out, so I did the return journey in 22:50. I was tempted to hide behind a tree and spare the wrath of Coach Lesley, but I was willing it to be over. I only averaged 8:30m/m as I felt my legs were so stiff and heavy. I might need to reintroduce speed work sooner than planned.

Enough about him. It's all about me!

Apart from running about after Sonic (and not just on the WHW) I have been pounding the streets myself. I'm nearly up to 30 miles per week. Woohoo, ho'd me back. I've had some cracking 10 mile runs. And a 14-miler that nearly cracked me. Every run gets better and faster. The fact that I'm getting lighter (down to 8st 6lbs)has really helped. I definitely feel lighter on my feet. Still a wee bit to go until I feel comfortable in my pre-preggers jeans, but definitely moving in the right direction. I suppose three months on, I can't use the baby weight as an excuse. Especially when the baby weight is sitting in his Bumbo watching BBC news right now. Strange kid, I know.

I've been using a 10-mile route on the Balloch Horseshoe to gage how things are going. Before I was preggers (and the week after London marathon) I completed the run in 1:22. At the end of March I did it in 1:35, which I thought was good until I came back at looked up my previous time. Last week I ran with Sara in 1:35 and on Sunday I ran myself in 1:24. So I'm getting there.

I still haven't done any speed work. I'm going to wait until Mid-May and after the Ladies 10K. Then I'll be in serious training for the Devils race in August. I have no idea how I will get on in the 10K. And to be fair, I'm not really that bothered. The only reason I'm running it is because it was my first race way back in 2002 and I would like to complete it every year. If I got under 50 minutes I would be absolutely delighted. But I would be happy with anything under 55. Although I did the Paisley 10K at five months pregnant in 54 minutes, so I would have to have a serious word with myself if it was anything slower. I'll be shelving my 2008 goal of a sub:45 for another year, I think.

Although I think I'm doing OK, I would like to mention my crazy blog buddy Natalie, who ran the Boston Marathon in 4:21 - 10 weeks after having her baby son. That's four minutes faster than my first marathon. Well done, Natalie.



Congratulations to everyone who ran the London Marathon at the weekend. Special congrats to Paul (Brother Sonic) who ran after being injured for three weeks, Athole who ran a stormer in 3:05 and Coach Lesley. We came home on Sunday - with no radio, mobiles or news updates - only to discover the Skybox had crashed :-( It was quite sad to watch the marathon on TV. I ran London in 2004, 2005, 2006 (2007 I did Paris Marathon) and 2008. I've got a guaranteed place for next year, after getting 3:31:00 in 2008, so I might go back and give it another bash. But again, it's on the same weekend as the Fling, so I'm torn.

Anyway, I forgot to mention the most amazing athletic performance of the month. Forget Usain Bolt, you should have seen Dr Crazy German sprint across the carpark when a certain Mr Bragg was in need to some painkillers. Wow I've never seen a burd move so fast :-) We're both running the Devil's this year. I hope we don't have the same competitive rivalry as our husbands, or I'm in serious trouble :-) :-)

Highland Fling pictures

Click here

Dave - you might want to click, click, click.

Sonic's Fling in the Highlands

My wise pre-race words to Sonic were: "Run your own race and ignore everyone else. If you don't get the time you're after, you can say whatever you want at the end: You got injured, you blew up, ran out of energy..anything. Just do not tell me you went off to fast". Now anyone who knows Sonic, will probably be chuckling at my ambitious advice. Especially when six miles into the 53 miles, he appeared on the horizon right on the shoulder of the course record-holder and North Face sponsored ultra-human, ultra running, Jez Bragg. I was rolling my eyes so much, it took me nearly an hour to regain focus.



And, surprise, surprise, 12 miles on at the first check-point in Drymen he was still in hot pursuit. Even one of my "LOOKS" didn't dampen his sprits, as he was off bounding down the track like a Labrador that had been let out a car.

Needless to say, 20 miles in, his arrival at Balmaha was somewhat less jovial. He was 20 minutes ahead of schedule, but still in good form. Sonic must be the easiest runner in the world to support. All he fuels on is energy drink and gels. Throw in the odd jelly baby and sandwich and my job is pretty simple. So other than the fact it takes me almost as long to drive as it does to run, I had loads of time to chat, cheer and take pictures.

Because of the staggered start - females and vets start at 6am and the rest start at 7am - there was plenty of action and support teams about. It did get a bit confusing trying to work out the runner's postitions though.

Sonic was still 15 minutes ahead of schedule at Rowardennan and still looking fit. He set off on the 14 miles of the Lochside, whilst I started the journey of driving round to the other side - which can take up to an hour and a half. Although runner's always moan about the Lochside, I think the support teams get the short straw.

Watching runners appear over the bridge at Beinglas Farm is like watching the Dawn of the Dead. The lochside is notorious for zapping every ounce of life out of you. What's worse is that hitting the top of the Loch is like almost the end, but in reality there's another 12 miles of very undulating (f-ing hilly) terrain to battle.



Sonic appeared in Beinglas looking very white, after losing all the time he'd gained in the first section. He was still on target for his race goal of 8:25, but was in danger of losing it. Especially as his knee was throbbing and the girls were trying to get him to take a seat - and I was pulling him off it and telling him to get a move on. I know, I'm a bad bitch, but I only had his best interests at heart.

I stopped at the A82 about four miles along. I really hate this support point. I always feel slightly queasy stopping and getting out the car, whilst cars are flying passed at 60/70/80 miles an hour. It's a pretty straight road, so drivers really put the foot down and motorcycles dice with death. You can imagine how far my jaw dropped when I saw another support team doing a three-point-turn. WTF??

After I packed up my bag of goodies and put Cairn in his baby carrier (which is almost an operation) I headed down to the track with kathy and Silke - Dr Crazy German and wife of Sonic's biggest "friendly" rival, Tom the Crazy German. Sonic had stayed ahead of the Crazy German all day, but I knew when he appeared first my weekend was in danger of going t*ts up. Thankfully I was entertained by the Crazy Germans shouting at each other in their Mother tongue and throwing sparkling mineral water everywhere. What a diva you are Tom :-) Most people would happily cool off with some tap water. But no, not you.

Sonic arrived soon after. Walking. Of course the only thing he requested was the only thing I hadn't dragged down to the trail, his road shoes. So off I scrambled running through the tunnel and up the steps - with Cairn strapped to my front and a bag of food on my shoulder. After shouting at Sonic to change is shoes faster and stop sulking about "everyone passing" - everyone being the Crazy German - I gave him a knee strap handful of grapes and pushed him onwards.

My last support stop was to be the Wigwams, which is about 2-3 miles from the finish. I drove along to the finish in the hope of seeing the winners crossing the line, but I was too late. Jez had broken his own record and finished in 7:19. Now you can understand my previous angst.

Back at the farm I met up with Mrs JK, the long suffering wife and support of, obviously, JK. Although he was still on for a storming time, he wasn't his usual cheery self. As previously mentioned, I'm convinced little birds dress JK in the morning. But what was this? Could he have been close to spitting the dummy? :-)

After sharon went blazing through to secure a fabulous third place, I was willing Sonic to appear so I could get to the end to see her finish. I didn't have to wait for long as he came jogging/hopping down the trail in a much healthier state than the last time I saw him.



So back in the car, it was nearly over. And I was bloody exhausted. Between getting up at 4am, driving, supporting and looking after a three month old baby, I barely had time to stop let alone eat or drink anything.

Sharon finished third lady in a fabulous time of 9hr 41. And still smiling. As she had to leave, I got to pick up her prize - much to the confusion of many spectators.



Sonic finished in 8h:52. 15th position out of 242. Although he seemed quite dissapointed, I was totally over the moon for him. And to be fair if he knew that was going to be his time before the race, he would have been delighted with that. No guesses as to what he said his race faults were :-) I could say, he's just a boy at a bad age, but his plans for sorting out his race strategy was short-lived. On the way home he was still analysing the top runner's pace and splits. With he learn in time for the big race in June? Stop shaking your head. I've got eight weeks to drum it into him...

...in one ear and out of the other

But at least Sonic and the Crazy Germans are still pals. Although it looks like Sonic was off to drown his sorrows.



Big huge congratulations to everyone who ran, supported, organised and marshalled such a fabulous race.

Safari run

Well, Sara, where do I start? My closing words to Sara when we completed a 12 mile trail run was: "at least I'll have something to blog about".

It started before I'd even laced up my shoes. My original plan was to run with the Millies, but Sonic had booked a sports massage and wouldn't be home in time for their kick-off time.

The Pacepushers were going to join us, but they decided on WHW run. Sonic was hoping to have an Xbox evening the Pacepusher though. So Sara I planned our own run starting at 6.30pm. Sara, notorious for her tardiness, was on time. Sonic, also notorious for his tardiness, wasn't. It was closer to 7pm when we embarked on our journey over Stoneymollan to Cardross. All was going well. It was a nice clear evening, so the views over Loch Lomond were amazing. After heading through Cardross we turned onto the farm tracks to take the off-road route to Renton. I had just warned Sara about the evil sheepdog, when said evil sheepdog and two of his equally evil pals appeared. We tinkered about for about 10 minutes, but there was no way they were letting us passed. As previously mentioned, I'm not very good with dogs, so I wasn't going anywhere. The dogs were down on their front legs trying to chase us back down the track - and I was taking the hint. Then we saw the farmer coming up the road in his tractor. After what seemed like eternity he approach and we cowardly asked if he could help us passed. God, if felt about five years old. He seemed suitably unimpressed with us, but admitted they were "quite fierce". After we made it through we were half expecting the farmer to set them after us, so we were up the hill in record time.

Five minutes later we were surrounded by cows. Sara's a farmer's daughter so she stomped on through - with me attached to her. Despite my love of the great outdoors, I'm still convinced that all coos are bulls. One day I'll know the difference. Why do animals that bloody HUGE cower away from humans? I bet there's a story of a cow who killed a human. I'll google it later.

We passed through the last farm pretty much drama free. I was slightly nervous as the last time I was on the route a manic dog came flying out from no where.

Back on the tarmac, a mile from the main road, I thought we were on the home straight. But no safari would be complete without some neds (that's undesirable young men to my international readers!). Except these were neds with a difference. They stopped their car and asked us if we'd seen two Rottweilers. WTF?? After a series to "you're joking"/"we're not joking" they informed us that the dogs had got out of the North Lodge, as someone had left the gates open. I was totally expected them to start laughing, but they remained poker-faced. I knew the dogs they were talking about, as I'm generally terrified just walking passed the lodge gates. They are mental. The electric gates, complete with CCTV, are about 10" from the ground, so you can see the dogs growling and foaming at the mouth as they try to get free to kill you. The always remind me of Fluffy from Harry Potter. But the neds informed us: "don't worry, they're pets". I know, it keeps getting better.



We were about 70% convinced it was a wind up, but we were obviously super cautious and super terrified. Thankfully I came up with an SAS-style plan. "Right, if the dogs appear, we should cuddle each other and hide our faces. Best not to run". WTF! Where do I get my stuff from? Even super-nice Sara looked like she wanted to push me off the hill. Note to self: Look up what to do in a dog attack.

Back on the main road, we passed the Lodge. They gates were closed, but there was no sign of the dogs. Was it a wind up?? The only things that made me think otherwise was the fact the neds-in-car literally came round the corner and stopped to ask. It wasn't like the saw us coming and thought it would be a laugh. Plus, they didn't laugh. And they drove away really slowly. And the dogs actually exist.

We completed the last two miles a bit shocked and slightly battered. Think I'll shelve that route for a while.

Little Sonic on Conic

A little jaunt up Conic Hill is becoming a bit of a bank holiday tradition. This time we had Cairn - enjoying his first hill walk. Well at least it was his first hill walk in the outside world. He was so underwhelmed by it all, he practically slept the whole journey.





The Bank Holiday Conic Hill dash is becoming a tradition for Team Kynaston too, as we bumped into them en route - for the third time. We're not stalking you. Honest!

I'm looking for a half marathon in June/July. Most of them seem to be on June 21, which are out because of the WHW race. I'm contemplating Girvan or Stonehaven halfs. Has anyone done either or have any suggestions for alternatives?

Back on the Way. Wayhay!!

Today was my first run on the West Highland Way since last June. I was so excited and geared up for it. Sonic wanted to run this morning too, so it involved some planning. He had to go first, as I've got to feed Cairn. Plus, we both needed to start sharp as we were going to my Mum's for an Easter feast.

Sonic drove over to Milngavie, left his car and ran the 19 miles to Balmaha. Click here to read all about it. I thought running back that distance on that terrain was a bit much, so took the fairy option and started at Drymen. I would have preferred to have run more than the 12.25 miles, but there isn't really a cut-off point between the two sections.

I had a bit of a stop/start first few miles. I had to stop to adjust my backpack, tie my laces, take off my extra layers, pack my gloves away and fix my ponytail as my cap kept blowing off. Then I needed a comfort stop and couldn't get the tier on my tights undone. My pelvic floor is not what it used to be, so it got quite frantic :-) Finally I was off and settled into a steady run. I wasn't particularly bothered about pace. My main aim was to run the whole way and just enjoy it.

As I started at 10am and was going in the opposite direction to the walkers, I got quite annoyed having to acknowledge everyone I passed. Not annoyed enough to turn into one of those rude runners who totally ignore everyone though.

I quite surprised by some of the changes on the route. The tree clearings, flattening some of the rocky track and knocking down historic stone-built walls and replacing them with steel gates. WTF? John posted some pictures on his blog. Granted, sometimes the stiles were quite tricky, but they were an iconic part of the trail. As usual it's health and safety gone mad. There will be handrails, chairlifts and wheelchair access before we know it. Although I feel for the those living in the houses next to the new gates. They poor folks will have to hear the gates slam shut 175 times during race night.

After I got over the disgust of the changes near Carbeth, I was heading into the unleashed dog territory of Mugdock Park, so that was something else for me to whine about. I'm never quite sure of dogs, especially the big hyper ones. One came bounding towards me and the owner shouted: "Don't worry, he might jump all over you, but he won't bite". I had a overwhelming urge to throw something at him. I've vowed never to run through Mugdock again. Famous last words.

I finished the run in 2:07, which I was quite pleased with. At no point did I feel knackered or breathless. I ran up all the hills and finished feeling really strong and could have taken on more.

I'm going to do a 12 mile trail run on Tuesday night, club on Thursday and then try for 16/17 miles next weekend.

Two runners + a baby

A combination that requires military precision and planning. But to be fair it's been a lot easier than I thought it was going to be. I envisaged Sonic and I bickering about who's turn it was to go running, but it's been pretty smooth. Sonic's lunchtime training group "with the fast boys" frees up the evenings for me. And Mama Sonic kindly volunteered her grandmother services so we can both go to club training on a Thursday. Perfect. The weekends usual take a bit of planning. Especially with Sonic's high mileage - and his inability to carry anything more than a Lucozade bottle and a gel :-) - has meant that Cairn and I had have spent a fair bit of time following him along the West Highland Way. Poor kid definitely got the short straw when choosing his 'rents.

Well it's been all go...

Last weekend we were at Center Parcs for four days, which was great. Sonic had organised it as a surprise for my birthday, but Mr Center Parcs posted the booking pack in a clear envelope. Doh! We had a fabulous time. The weather was sunny, but cold. It was nice to go for little jogs (one in, one out), long walks and nice dinners. We took Cairn to the swimming pool, which he seemed totally unfazed about. He was more interested in what was going on around him. It will be great to go back next year, when Cairn's a bit older. And I can take the baby jogger :-)







On Monday, when we got back, I went for a easy 3.5m run. On Tuesday night, I went out with our local running club, Milburn Harriers. They were planning a 12 mile trail run, a bit of a step up from my ONE 10 mile road run. I thought I'd give it a bash. After all Dario assured me my legs would remember the distance :-) So off I went with Davie and four of his buddies - who referred to him as TomTom. Davie took us on a fabulous tour of the local countryside. I'm a self-confessed stuck-in-my-ways runner, and don't tend to venture off my ol' faithful routes. I like to know where I'm going and how long it is. Sonic, on the other hand, is very much an off the cuff route master. I was a bit sceptical of Davie's intentions and navigation when we were apologising to farmers, climbing fences (not Davie's forte) and stomping through water-logged grass, but I had a great time. As suspected, I HAD bitten off more than I could chew, as I arrived home completely broken. I walked through the door like I'd lost my horse. My hamstrings were in tatters. But, thankfully, I was as right as rain the next day. I can't be as unfit as I thought I was.

My legs were a bit rusty for Thursday's seven-mile club run, but I plodded round the undulating route with Sara. I'm a firm believer that how you handle hills suggests how fit you are. Although it's getting better, hills remind me that I need to fit in some speed work.

Today, I was feeling a little delicate after drinking too much wine and analysing the world with Sharon and my Sis, so there was no running for me. I took my niece and mini-me, Beth, along to participate in her first fun run. I didn't want to be the pushy Auntie, but she was really excited about it. Actually she spent half an hour before the start, racing the boys up and down the carpark to see who was the fastest. She wasn't quite grasping that she was using up all her energy. Anyway we've got a mini endurance runner in the making. All the kids sprinted off at the start, but Beth ran the whole 1.5 miles without stopping. She was smiling and waving when she crossed the finishing line and was running about five minutes later. Everyone came up to tell me how well she had done and what a great wee runner she was. I was as proud as punch. She's desperate to do another race...so watch this space.

It's a running blog after all

So I best chat blogging about running. Just in case you think the depths of my exercise regime is limited to pressing buttons on cameras, here's a summary of what I've been up to.

Monday: 8 mile walk. 3.5 mile run with step reps. Found a cracking steep, stepped path over by Strathleven. Did eight reps of about 45 second turn around.

Tuesday: Not much today. Had to take my car to the garage to get new tyres (they had actually gone beyond the dangerously bald stage) and then Cairn has his first immunisations in the afternoon. He was pretty hot and grumpy, so I didn't want to leave him.

Wednesday: 5 miles over hills whilst my Sis enjoyed some bonding time with her nephew. Then I went for a 3 (ish) mile walk with my Sis. I bought a pedometer a few weeks ago and I aim to do at least 10,000 steps a day - not including running.

Thursday: 10 mile walk over the Balloch Horseshoe. It was very windy today. Pushing a buggy against gale force winds, is like trying to roll a boulder up a hill. It's a good workout for the arms and calves, that's for sure. The weather forecast was for heavy rain, but we were blessed with sunshine. The rain started as soon as we got home.

Friday: The weather was awful (notice the pattern here?) so we went to Braehead. Got my 10,000 steps walking round the shops. I'm not sure whether that's desperate or genius :-) In the evening I did a 3.5 mile easy run.

Saturday: This run was part of my upping-the-mileage plan. The most I have run is seven miles, so moving up to 10 was a bit of a jump. I choose the undulating (f-king hilly) route round the Balloch Horseshoe.

I forgot to mention in previous posts that I had a one-to-one session (stop chuckling) with personal trainer extraordinaire, Dario. He showed me a few moves to shift my mummy tummy (or mummy belly as Sonic called it!) and generally tone up using a gym ball and resistence bands. I know Dario sometimes reads this blog, so I best be careful what I say. Lets just say I haven't been as dedicated as I should be. The heart's willing but the body aint. Dario's coming back in a couple of weeks, so I best stop pretending I use it for more than sitting on to watch TV. The best thing about the gym is that is seems to roll about and get in Sonic's way :-) :-)

Some Flip videos

Cairn's first kilt

I'm lovin' my new Flip Mino. It's so easy to use - I didn't need to read the instructions. It's so light, I actually thought the box was empty. And I can just plug it into my computer and email or post on the net, without having to save or faff around. In summary, it's brilliant. And much cheapness too. I got it on Amazon for £100.

Anyway, I'll post some videos soon. But in the meantime, here's some pics of my boy in his kilt for Rob and Kas' wedding party at the weekend.




(thanks for the pictures, Anita)

Back on track

Given how accident prone I am, you'd be forgiven in thinking I'd been hit by a bus. Fear not, I'm still here. And everything has been going well.

I've always said I'm a firm believer that everything happens for reason. Getting injured when I started out too quicker, was the best thing that could happen. I started running again two weeks ago - after two weeks off - and feel much better for it. My body feels stronger, fitter and totally ready to get back into training. I haven't started any speed work, as putting too much pressure on myself was what set me back.

I've been running 5-6 miles every other day. I haven't bothered about pace, but I've been averaging 9m/m and just enjoying it. Losing a few pounds has made a huge difference and I feel like my lungs have doubled in size. Maybe that's why having babies makes women better runners? :-)

My plan is to start introducing some long reps and tempos and gradually increasing my mileage. Seven weeks until the Glasgow Women's 10K and over four weeks until I have to take on the 43m Devils race. Yikes! Not much of a jump, eh.

I've got a new toy to play with - a Flip Mino video camera. It's a really nifty wee gadget. So light and easy to use. So you can expect lots of video posts soon.



I plan on catching up with everyone's blogs over the next couple of days. I've lost count of the amount of times I said "I just don't know where time goes".

Happy belated Mother's Day to all you Mommys out there.

I think someone's trying to tell me something...

Cairn had his first visit to the baby clinic on Thursday - for his six week check-up. All is very and the doc commented on how alert and happy chappy. He also said he has a "tall and lean" frame. That's definitely a Consani trait, as I come from a long line of midgets. I told him he's going to be a great runner, as he's a thoroughbred after all :-) The doc is a cyclist so tutted and informed me that cycling is best as "you can take in the world at the speed it should be enjoyed". I retorted by saying that cycling is what I do when I am a) injured b) commuting or c) enjoying a nice summer's day.

So, given that I am a)injured I had to dip in to my alternative exercise reserves and get back on the saddle. As it was quite chilly this morning I put on my long tights, jacket and gloves. After a collision with a wall a few years ago, which resulted in five clips in my head, I tend to wear a helmet when I'm on my bike. My sensible safety and clothing attire was a wise choice, as four miles along my route I ended up splattered on the middle of the road.

I was making my way up a hill on Bonhill Road, when I noticed a car approaching the junction on the left. I was slightly cautious as a car came out in front of me at the same spot last week, just missing me. I was sure the driver hadn't seen me, so I slowed down as I crossed. Unfortutunately he didn't slow down and to make matters worse, cut the corner...and smashed into my bike. I was thrown backwards and he took my bike with him.

So there I was flat on my back on the middle of a busy road. I could hear commotion round about me, but I think I was too stunned to move. Two women in a passing car rushed over to help me and the chap who hit me was standing over me practically crying and shaking. Possibly because he realised he'd hit a cyclist as a policecar was coming round the bend. Doh! I tried to get up but one of the policeman made me stay down and called an ambulance. The other stood in the road directing the gawking traffic. OMG I was mortified. I knew I'd have some cracking bruises, but I wasn't at death's door.

After I was checked over by the paramedics, I was safe to go. My legs had taken a bit of a bashing. Sod's law, my knees took the brunt of it. But my bike it totally mangled. Sonic came to pick me up, but the paramedics took my bike home in their ambulance. You can imagine the curtain-twitching on my street :-)

My knees are black and blue, but I was so thankful my skin was covered and I was wearing a helmet. Bet the driver is too - as he's been charged with careless driving. I told the policeman I didn't want him to be charged - accident's happen - but apparently I don't have a say in that.

So, running's out, my bike is in bits, the weather is too rubbish for walking and the local swimming pool closes at 6pm...do you think someone is trying to tell me something?

Next weekly round up.

Eh, nothing. Yep, nothing. So much for my great come back. Two weeks in and I'm out already. As briefly mentioned in my last post, my knees are goosed. To move, to touch and to bend. Yep, completely knackered. I knew running was out of question, so last Saturday I decided to cycle. It doesn't quite cut it, but it's better than nothing. I did a nice 13-mile route, which I really enjoyed. But since then, even walking has been a struggle. They feel better today, so hopefully I'll be able to do something over the weekend.

I was planning on going on a long walk today, but there's a bit of a snow blizzard going on so the great outdoors looks quite uninviting.

I suppose I'm slightly disheartened as I really wanted to get back into an exercise regime. I had big plans of shifting the extra 12lbs of post-baby weight that are hanging about my body. I don't feel particularly bad about it, but none of my pre-Cairn clothes fit me. And anyone who knows me, knows that's a lot of clothes! So for the last week I've been super healthy. I've been deciphering labels, counting calories, weighing portions and cooking lots of veg-packed dishes. I have to be quite sensible as I'm feeding Cairn, but I was really, really good. So after all that hard work, you can imagine how peeved I was to only loose 1lb. I thought breast feeding was supposed to burn loads of calories! Pah! That's enough to drive you to chocolate and red wine. I suppose it's step in the right direction, so it's back to the carrot sticks.

Weekly round up

I don't really have the time to post my daily drivel anymore...but I'm working on it. I've almost got my morning routine (getting myself, Cairn and the house ready) down to under three hours. Trust me, that's a huge improvement. It can take me 1.5 hours just to feed Cairn, by the time: he's fallen asleep numerous times; puked on me; burped; gets bored; and stares vacantly at the lights. Thankfully, I've have leant not to get dressed until I've bathed him, as the excitement of coming out of the water always makes him pee. And usually down my clean clothes. Which means more washing.

So, I'm slowly getting back into a exercise plan. The weather hasn't been too bad, so Cairn and I can go for long walks.

I'm still following the FIRST training program, so here are the updates.

Sunday, Feb 22: 7 mile run at long tempo pace.
This was a bit of a shabby attempt, as I was recovering from the wine/champagne/beer I drank at Sara's wedding. Oops. Plus, I'd left it so late in the evening, that my heart wasn't in it. But hey, I finished. But that's probably about all I achieved.
Splits: 10.36 (warm-up) 9.31, 9.19, 9.34, 9.37, 9.33. Average 9.34.

Tuesday, Feb 24: one mile warm up, 5 x 400m reps and one mile cool down.
There was no way I was driving out to a track, so I found a 400m route round two blocks of houses on my street. The times are probably a little wonky, as the route involved many ups and down off pavements and driveways and four 90 degree bends.
Rep times 3.58, 3.54, 3.53, 3.54, 3.48.

Thursday, Feb 26: 1 mile warm-up, 2 x short tempo pace, 1 x easy, 2 x short tempo pace and 1 x cool down.
I choose quite a hilly route to try and incorporate some hill training. Plus, I'd struggle to find a route round here that don't have killers hills :-)
Splits: 10.24, 9.06, 8.19, 9.42, 8.53, 8.44 and 9,59. Average 9.11.
There are quite a few points on this route that are dark and on uneven pavements, so you're forced to slow down. My plan was to try this again at the weekend in daylight, but my knees are shot. They seem to be easing off today, but they were really sore when I was up during the night. Hopefully it's more of an ache than an injury.

Thur

Who's getting married in the morning?

Dear Sara,
Thanks for the comment, but what are you doing reading blogs the night before your wedding day? Shouldn't you have curlers in your hair, practicing your vows...or climbing out of the bathroom window :-)
Can't wait to see you and Jerry tomorrow.
Debs xx

Also, good luck to Team Kynaston on their wedding day tomorrow. Laura is the first to fly the Bronte-esque coup. Looking forward to seeing the video of JK's Father-of-the-Bride speech. He did promise afterall ...

So tomorrow will be the first day I'll be parted from my boy. Yikes. He's off to stay at his Gran's for the night.

First day on the job

As previously mentioned I'm going to follow the 12 week 10K plan. It's called the FIRST training program and based on three quality training runs per week. The sessions are much more intense and focus on strength, speed and endurance. Every run is either reps or tempo runs at race pace. The tempo pace is broken down to short, mid and long pace (depending on distance) and based on the runners' 5K pace. I'm a bit in no-mans land with regards to race times, so I'm going with a medium between my 54min 10K at five months pregnant and my 57min 10K at six months pregnant. Now I know I'm not pregnant anyone, but up until last week I had only run three miles in seven weeks.

So the plan for tonight was 1 mile warm-up, 3 x miles at short tempo pace (8.59m/m) and 1 mile cool down.

The longer I upped the pace, the "easier" it got. I really think it's just reminding my body that I can run faster. Here are the scores: 10.11, 8.38, 8.42, 8.59 and 9.48 (average 9.17).

Plan needed

Yesterday, Cairn and I went for an eight mile walk. I really enjoyed moving briskly and getting some fresh air. He was so underwhelmed that he slept the whole way. I was weird to think that the last time I walked this route round Dumbarton I was trying to bring on labour.

Today I had a dentist appointment at 10am. I swear I had to start getting organised at 7am. Gone are the days when I'm showered, dressed and out the door in an hour. There always seems to be some drama - usually involving frequent changes and feeds. Cairn decided to throw up on my boobs %-) And when I whipped him out of the bath to answer the door to the postman - he peed all down the front of my top. Just when I was telling the postman he's as "good as gold".

Then the health visitor was round in the afternoon to check on Cairn's progress and my mental well-being. Gawd, they ask a lot of daft questions. Like am I "managing" to eat breakfast, lunch and dinner? Yeah, probably about two of each and snacks.

After Sonic finished work, I got to go for a run. Thankfully he's got a new lunchtime training group, so we don't need to divvy up weeknight running time. Unfortunately I don't really know anyone in the area, so any me-time exercise involves waiting on Sonic or a 55 mile round trip to where all my family live.

Tonight I was hoping to pick up the pace a little. Lord knows I couldn't go any slower than Sunday's run - without going backwards. Again, I felt better and fitter, but I was slightly overdressed. I hadn't really taken into account the sudden rise in temperature. Two running tops weren't needed. I did a one mile warm-up and then five-miles at a steady pace. I don't quite have the drive to push the pace. Which is probably just as well, as I would only end up injuring an already ruined body.

Total distance: Five miles. 48:39. Splits 10.01, 9.34, 9.37, 9.36, 9.45. Average 9.43. I really need some hill training, as I got to pot on even the slightest incline.

I've been thinking over the last couple of weeks, I need a plan. Although my aim is to start with the women's 10K in May and then build up to the Devils in August, I've got no idea how to get there.



I bought this book and it seems to give some solutions. It's based on three quality runs a week. There's a 12 week 10K plan, which I'm going to follow. I'll report back once I've read some more.

On board to on tow.

As Keith kindly pointed out, I had to update my blog name. It was kind of my list of things to do over the last couple weeks. But like everything else on the list I never quite got round to it. Anyway, it's updated now. The baby on board is now the baby on tow. I think I preferred being a pregnant running, as at least I had an excuse. I've felt slightly self-conscious on my new-mum runs. I really want to get a T-shirt printed that states: "I've just had a baby. This IS fast".

It's been a year since I put the hit counter on my blog. Over 16,000 isn't bad. And they're not all me either :-) Thanks for reading, folks.

Part deux

Today was the first day that Sonic and I has to juggle runs. So far he's had the free reign, but now it's a case of taking turns. He got to go first, as I've got to feed Cairn. So off he went at 8am to meet Lins, on the agreement that he'd be back at 9.30am. So I ran about like a blue-arsed fly to get everything sorted and waited...and waited. At 10.15am a broken Sonic returned spluttering apologies and dramatic stories about messed up routes, fatigue and Lins' hamstrings. Lins' wife was waiting for him to return so she could go out running, so he was in trouble too.

So off I went, with the aim of running five miles. My legs actually ached from Friday's run, so I felt quite jerky. I loosened up and started to get into it. I was pretty amazed how fitter I felt already. I remember when I started running seven years ago, that I was amazed how easy running became so quickly. So I'm hoping history will repeat itself.

The pace was pretty slow and steady, but my aim was to cover the mileage without stopping. Or at least dying.

I think my body's still suffering from the effects of childbirth. Although my stitches have healed, I still feel tender. My coxix still feels quite bruised. And my boobs are in tatters. Last week I had mastitis, but the antibiotics have cleared that up. Even if I wanted to take first dibs at running this morning, I don't think my boobs could take it. If Cairn doesn't feed during the night, then I wake up looking like Jordan :-) After a one hour attack by the milk monster, by boobs were rattling about in my sports bra like week-old water balloons :-) Sorry for the graphics, dear reader.

5.2 miles round Balloch. 51:56. Average 10.11 m/m

I'm back!

OK that may sound like a grand drama-hands statement. It should be more like I'm sneaking my way back. Last night I went out for my first run. I took my new trainers out of the box, put on my pre-pregnancy running gear and headed out into the dark streets. I took the first mile like I'd just been let out of a cage. It felt great to be lighter and have sole possession of my lungs. Unfortunately by mile two I was starting to pay for my over-sprightly start. I kind of ran/walked/jogged for another mile of so. Clocking up a total of 3.5 miles. Ho'd me back! But hey ho, it's a start. Every step is a step back to fitness...right?

Happy Valentine's Day everyone. Hope you're having a romantic day. Sonic and I managed to buy each other gifts from the new North Face store. Spooky. He went one step further with the red roses though. He even treated Cairn and I to a cross-country race and a trip to PC World to buy...(something I switched off to)... I know, I'm living the dream :-) We did go to Nanakusa for lunch for a sushi and noodle feast. Then I fell asleep 15 minutes into our evening's movie viewing.

Three weeks on...and I don't know where the time has gone.

I haven't quite got round to going for a run yet. I'm thinking about venturing out before the weekend. Does thinking about it count?

In the meantime, here are a few more pictures of Cairn. I promise I'll stop posting baby pictures when I've got something running-wise to chat about :-)