Back to Racing

My first official long distance race post-baby. Brad and I ran the "Bridge Run" downtown on Sunday morning -- a 10 mile race. We're both training for the GR Half Marathon next month, so this 10 miler was a great training opportunity. I have to say, I was a bit nervous going into it...but it felt good in a way to have that feeling back. Nervous because it is a race and that in itself creates butterflies in my stomach. But also nervous because I've been struggling a bit with hip pain for the past several months. I had a really bad 10 mile run 2 weeks ago (non-race) and was worried I might repeat myself on Sunday.

I must say, it was AWESOME to get back into racing. I'm not as fast as I used to be (not that I was all that fast before), but I far exceeded my expectations on Sunday. I ran 8:49 minute miles...I thought I'd be closer to 9:30-10:00 per mile. And I felt wonderful the whole run -- and a little competitive, too. It was a nice cool morning that led way to beautiful sunny skies. Couldn't have asked for better conditions.

I did come out of the run with three blisters -- which have been a chronic problem for me all of my running days. I'll spare the details, but I did lose a toe nail post-race. Again, no details. But I suppose you're not a true runner unless you've sacrificed a few toenails. Thank goodness we're pretty much through sandal season for the year!

While I have always hated pictures of me running, I thought I'd post a couple from the race. I like this one of me because I've just passed Brad's physical therapist who is an avid runner. That's him in the red. Sorry to leave you in my dust Terrence! To his credit, he was running as part of a volunteer group who take special needs children through the race. What a wonderful way to volunteer! Go team Lauren!


And here's my ultra speedy husband. I liked this photo because you can see two of the ArtPrize entries in the background. The route was full of entries and running the race was a very cool way to view them. Brad ended up finishing 21st overall (out of about 600 runners). But 10 miles is nothing to him...just a little walk in the park!


While we were racing, Gavin was enjoying time with Grandma Mary and Grandpa Fred -- thanks to you both for getting up extra early on a Sunday...and for taking our little guy to church with you. He told me (in babble) that he had a wonderful morning with you both!

So, cheers to racing again...and getting all of these miles in each week while working full time, breastfeeding and just being a mom and wife. It's a lot of work (and calories consumed), but very fulfilling!