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Gasping for Breath

Remember last week's post about running being hard? That was again true during Monday's speedwork. In the middle of 5.3 miles, I did 3 x 1600 @ 8:20 each (w/3 minute recovery). Halfway through the second 1600, I thought I was going to die. I realized I was gasping for breath so I really focused on my breathing after that. It wasn't easy but was certainly more bearable, and focusing on my breathing was a good distraction.

The most remarkable thing about the run: less than two weeks ago, Alicia and I were talking about her speedwork and how I could never do my 1600s in 8:27 like she does. She thought I could and said I would probably surprise myself if I tried. I can do my 800s that fast or even a little faster, but 1600 is twice as far my friends. But I did try. And I did it. It's amazing how much someone's confidence in you can push you to do things you didn't think were possible!

There are 10 miles (on the treadmill) on the schedule tonight and a tempo run on Friday. I am hoping to get an update on here between now and Saturday, but I have a special post written and scheduled for Friday in case that doesn't happen.

My to-do list from Monday is blissfully smaller already. I have even packed over half our stuff for Hawaii. It helps that it is too cold here to wear most of what we need to pack. This will be my first trip to Hawaii. I am really excited, but not as excited as my little midge though. She will be 4-years-old on Sunday and has been telling everyone for months that she is going to Hawaii for her birthday. During last weekend's tsunami scare, we prepared her for the possibility that we might not be able to go. We even offered Disney World or Disneyland in exchange, but her heart was set on Hawaii. All she really knows about Hawaii is there is a beach and three swimming pools and she will get to swim. We are also going with some friends she adores. The only way she would settle for Disney was if they came too. Luckily we are still going to Hawaii so all is still right with her world.

Run happy!

Comments

  1. I am so excited for you and your Hawaii trip! So exciting!

    YOU KICKED BUTT on those mile repeats! Way to go, rockstar! Little speed demon. I love it! I am sure it was just the confidence boost you needed. Well done!

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  2. That is hilarious that a 4 year old wants to go to Hawaii instead of Disneyland. I hope you have a great trip :-)

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  3. I have never been to Hawaii but I have always wanted to go! Great job on the mile repeats! That pace is awesome! I am the worst at mile repeats! They are so hard!

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  4. Hey, I just did 4x1600 mile repeats yesterday at that exact same pace! It really pushed me but I felt great all day. Keep up the hard work and enjoy your vacation!!!

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  5. It's amazing how someones cofidence in you can CHANGE everything! I so agree with you. So motivating.

    Have a great time in Hawaii! I want to go there so bad...it has been way to long. Enjoy ever second. Happy 4th Birthday to your daughter!

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  6. Way to go! Awesome!

    Have a great time!

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  7. Second paragraph is so true! Great job on the repeats. I am desperate to go somewhere warm and beautiful right now! Hope you guys have a blast!! Looks like if things went as planned you finished the 10 mile and are doing a tempo tomorrow. Hope it goes well!!

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  8. have a wonderful time in hawaii! you are so lucky!

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  9. Hope your are having a blast in Hawaii! The weather is warming up a bit here. Wouldn't it be nice to come back to a warm Utah?!

    As for the mile repeats- I knew you could! Great job, Speedy McSpeedster!

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