Fun in Minnesota

We have been enjoying our time here in Minnesota visiting friends and family. And Cullen is enjoying being spoiled by Grandpa and Grandma.

Auntie Kristy, Grandpa, and Grandma

We have been laying-low and enjoying time on the farm and not really doing too much of anything. Cullen has visited the pigs and kittens, and I have enjoyed sleeping in and not running around like a ‘chicken with my head cut off’ all day.

One evening after a downpour, there was a double rainbow, and it looked like the end of the rainbow was right in my dad’s field and really close to us.

I have been running a lot and knocking out some speedy runs.

Here’s a run-down of my mileage this past week. Nichole, my coach, is okay sharing my workouts on the blog since her plans are so personalized for each of her athletes.

Running Mileage ~ June 22 – 28

Monday

5 miles, easy | Time: 41:59 | Average pace: 8:23

I did this run with the stroller so I could sleep in. I was sore and tired from racing on Saturday, so I took it easy. I also did 30 minutes of light weight lifting: physical therapy exercises, core, and some upper body.

Tuesday

10.5 mile tempo run

2 miles warm-up, 8 x 5 minutes @ tempo (6:30 pace) – 45 seconds recovery jog in between, 1.5 miles cool-down

Tempo splits – 6:41, 6:36, 6:55–>gradual incline, 6:33, 6:47–>gradual incline + poor GPS signal, 6:40, 6:55–> started fading, 7:07–>dead!

My tempo workouts are always tough! It is still difficult for me to hit my tempo goal pace of 6:30, especially when my legs are tired from training and racing. But I gave it my best effort and did what I could!

Wednesday

6 miles, easy | Time – 46:49 | Average pace – 7:48

My legs felt like they wanted to run fast! I guess they were excited to be back on familiar soil in Minnesota! My breathing was a little labored though. Not sure if it was the more humid air or faster pace.

Thursday

AM run – 8 miles with 8 x 20 second pick-ups | Time – 1:00 | Average pace – 7:30

I started at 11 a.m., so it was definitely warmer. I liked it, but I did feel more tired. However, my legs still wanted to run fast.

PM run – 4 miles, easy | Time – 31:16 | Average pace – 7:49

Went well. Not as tired as I was in the morning.

Friday

6 miles, easy | Time – 47:33 | Average pace – 7:55

Easy run. This was easier than the previous two days.

Saturday

22 miles | Time – 2:52 | Average pace – 7:49

My sister did the first 15 with me, which definitely helped! I didn’t feel great, but I know I am running on tired legs.

Sunday

9 miles easy | Time – 47:33 | Average pace – 7:55

This actually went better than I thought. I wasn’t as tired as I usually am. I spent quite a bit of time stretching and foam rolling on Sunday. Plus I haven’t been on my feet as much since I’m on vacation!

Total for the week: 70.5 miles

We’ve got some fun activities planned in the next few days, so look for a recap later this week.