Monday, March 23, 2009

Coffee talk 3/23/09

Pour your coffee and settle in, the coffee talk is about to begin...

I think everyone agrees that it was a fantastic race this weekend. Great course, great post-race snacks, great friends. There is no better feeling than running a "wicked fast" (true Rhode Island adjective, or is it adverb?) 5K. With that said, Team Newman placed 4th out of 35 teams. Thank you to Steve Sears for leading our team to victory. Erin was right when she said he IS Forest Gump. Jill Lifrak was second with an outstanding time, looking like she had just taken a light jog down the street when it was all over. Joe Lifrak came in third for Team Newman and wasn't too far behind his lovely wife. Lori Keough you better never tell me again that you are not fast. Lori came in fourth for Team Newman with Lisa Letourneau in fifth. These two ladies have the longest legs and a great stride to go along with them. Gary Tracey came in seconds behind Lisa and did an outstanding job with his first 5K. Courtnee Munson didn't think she had 25 minutes in her but she did. Ran like the wind that was blowing that day. Nice job, Court. Rich Baudreau, a newbie to Team Newman, ran a fabulous 5K and looked great doing it. Rich is an awesome guy and a terrific athlete. Thanks so much for running, Rich. The Cox race is May 3. Are you in? Joe Caruso, you are the best. I knew you could do it. There is absolutely nothing wrong with your time and we want you running with us again very soon. You know where to find us. I think your next race should be May 3 as well. Stacie Tracey ran the race of her life on Saturday. Hoping to break 29 minutes, she ended up at 27 minutes and made it look easy. Great race, Sta. Lynda Britt, you ran a 1/2 marathon last week and a 5k under 30 minutes this week. You are officially on the circuit. Way to go, Lynda. Cox is just around the corner and we want to see you there with bells on. Mindi Kelley, we didn't get a chance to see you but your time says it all. Nice job on Saturday. Will we see you on the course in May as well? Erin Sears you are obviously on the road to recovery. You ran a great race on Saturday and we hope to see more of you during training runs and at our next race. Nice job. Brenda Booth you are awesome. You ran so well on Saturday. I hope you plan to do another 5K in May. Liz Fasteson you just keep getting better. For someone who runs once a week, you are amazing. Chris Ross is was great to see you out there running in the time that you did. Keep it up. May is just around the corner. Pam Sluter I am so glad you ran with the team. You were fantastic as was your outfit. You totally dressed for the part. Jill Levin, you ran your first 5K and you ran it with your sistaz! Congratulations on an outstanding time and race. You were great. CJ Jasionowski you amaze me. You work 60 hours a week, take care of 3 kids and run a 5K in the midst of all of it. Way to go, girl. Lori Kiley-Garcia, I am so proud of you. How long have we been talking about you running a 5K? I knew you could do it. Now the rest is easy. Just keep runnin'. Cynthia Corbett, you are getting better with every race. The 1/2 marathon is easily within your reach. Monique Francouer, way to go girl. I knew you could do it. I promise it gets easier every race. Pat Messore, so proud of you. You are officially a Sole Sister and we expect to see more of you when your schedule permits. Maria Anthony, great race. Another official Sole Sister. Please join us for training runs when you can. Michelle Polk, you weren't on the roster but you are always part of the team. Great race. Looking strong and feeling good. Bill Mahoney we know you are from Riverside, not Grafton. I would love to find the other Bill Mahoney's time but I can't seem to locate it. Bill Mahoney ran 24 minutes on Saturday. Great PR Bill. Now please tell me that you plan to run a 1/2 in May. I know you have it in you.

For those that were unable to run due to schedules or sidelines, we missed you. Keep in mind that this is not the final race. We have a couple of others coming up that promise to be just as fun. As always, the party begins after the race so if you can't race, you can always come to the party. We are equal opportunity runners.

Gotta keep this one brief as well. We will be running long Friday and Saturday this week. Walk/Run is scheduled for Saturday. As always, please r.s.v.p. with your intentions so we can plan our routes. Long run this week is 10 but we can always shave off a mile or two or four...it's all good.

Keep on keepin' on...

Joyce

Sunday, March 15, 2009

Coffee talk 3/16/09

Pour your coffee and settle in, coffee talk is about to begin...

This weeks blog is dedicated to Rhode Island Hospital's finest, the MICU MARATHONERS, who ran a phenomenal New Bedford 1/2 Marathon today. Led by their L' Capatain, Evelyn Sayles, this nursing team is taking racing to a whole new level. Evelyn has inspired and motivated each of her teammates to get out there and train, to run the best race they can run, and enjoy the moment--kinda like us, except they save lives every week. Congratulations to Jen Rodriguez, Cherylynn Brownback, Robin Mercier, Lynda Britt, Evelyn Sayles, Lisa Letourneau, Eric Anketell and Jerry Felix who all crossed the finish line. This group of runners is one fun group to hang out with. You were all AWESOME today and I hope you are all celebrating your victory.
Thanks for letting me hang out.

So we ran and what a run it was. Couldn't ask for better weather (I feel like I'm repeating myself every week but seriously, after all the snow we've had, its true), an extremely organized race, and a route that wasn't all that bad. It was worse last year due to the weather conditions and my condition, but I'm still not in love with it. It could be that Lisa and I were minus one (Courtnee Munson), or a number of other reasons but I was pleased with my time which was 2:01:30something or other. I was out there for a pace today and ended up surprising myself with the 2:01. But dammit, had I just not walked halfway up that damn 3rd hill I would have had it!!! I took my 30 seconds since nobody was around to watch and loved every second of it (Nicole). I know what I need to do for Providence and I will break that 2:00 mark. Prancy did her thing and stayed the course, beating me with seconds and I know she surprised herself. Way to go, Lisa, I knew you had it in you.

Pam Sluter has offered to pick up the race packets for the 5K St. Pats race on Wednesday. I will probably go with her so that I can help and I can then organize them for Saturday distribution. If you would rather pick up your own race packet, please let me know. I do understand that some like to retrieve their own so please do not feel as though you are insulting me or Pam by saying "no thank you." Just wanted you to know the option is out there.

We will park in the Ann and Hope parking lot on Saturday. We cannot park at the Y this time because the basketball teams are having their pizza party at 11:00 a.m. Therefore, if we park closest to the bank, we should be all set. Let's plan to meet for 9:15 a.m. in the lot.

Our training schedule reflects training for the Providence race 7 weeks out. Please follow the schedule and let me know if you have any questions. Adjust the mileage as needed. The most important thing to do to prepare for this race is the long run each week. If you miss a run or two during the week, its fine. The long run is key to success.

I am going to address a couple of other races that are coming up during the week. For now, enjoy your easy week and get ready to have some fun on Saturday.


"Energy is like love. The more you give, the more you receive."


Joyce

Monday, March 9, 2009

Coffee talk 3/9/09

Pour your coffee and settle in, coffee talk is about to begin...

Okay so this is my 3rd attempt today at getting the coffee talk up and running. I will dispense with the formality and get right to it.

For those of who were able to enjoy the weather this weekend I say "Congratulations." It was fab from Friday to Sunday. I would like to thank Courtnee Munson, Laurel McLaughlin and Cheryl Medeiros (newcomer to the group and a great running buddy)for talking me into leaving my jacket. Just me and the fuel belt and of course, the company of some terrific ladies. Always makes the 12 mile run go by that much quicker. Alright, it was 11.7 but close enough.

The New Bedford 1/2 is this week and a taper schedule is in place due to the race. We will be starting with a new training schedule for the Providence/Cox race (to be held May 3) next week. Although this coincides with our March 21 race, we will be fine to race on Saturday.

Speaking of which, if you have not registered for the St. Pats, March 21 race you can still do so, online, by March 13. Use the link along the side of the blog. Register as a team. Team name is Team Newman and the passcode is 111500. If you have any problems, please let me know.

The Providence/Cox race will be held May 3. In order for us to be a team, we need at least 3 people in each category to qualify. This race was very special to a lot of us last year and I would really like to see a good turnout. It was a struggle to find someone to run a marathon in my place and Dennis was such a good sport and stepped in to do it after having run the Boston marathon two weeks prior. Cherylynn Brownback is registered to run the marathon so we need at least 2 more people, if not more. The more people we have the stronger our team. It looks like we will have a good turnout for the 1/2 marathon. We still need 5k runners so if you know of someone who is looking to become a newbie, now is the time to join in. They will be race ready for May 3. In order to sign up, click on the link to the side of the blog. Click "Register." Team name is "sole sisters -" (don't forget the dash) password is 111500. Let me know if you have any problems with signing up.

I spoke to Luca this evening about the swimming program for triathlons. He is going to give Sole Sisters a special rate of $10 as opposed to $20. This program will be held on Thursday nights from 6:30 to 7:30. This is a great opportunity to get in the water and learn the technique you need to swim in open water. I also have a dvd that is a great introduction to swimming that I can loan out if someone is looking for tips. Just so you know, I was pushing for Sole Sisters to not pay anything at all. However, if someone found out that we weren't paying anything, it could cause a problem, so we agreed to this. I hope some of you can take advantage of the program. Its a great chance to get in the pool and add a different workout to your routine.

Speaking of triathlons, we are looking to do some local races. Bayside YMCA and Wild Dog triathlon are two tri's that are held back to back in August. I would say that Wild Dog is the easiest of the two because the swim is a little shorter. I picked these two because they are easy to get to and they are small in terms of number of participants. However, we are not limited to them and can certainly look at competing in others. For the newer participants, though, they are great races for distance and transition areas. Please let me know if you are interested in competing. Remember to just look at a triathlon as a workout. You'll be done in 2 hours and then you can eat anything you want.

I'm looking forward to getting back out there with everyone. There isn't much in the way of coffee talk because we are all running (literally and figuratively) in different directions. Once New Bedford is over, though, I anticipate that we will be able to run together again and make our time out of the road fun and full of laughs.

Destination marathon and 1/2 marathon will be: Philadelphia, PA. Its flat, its easy to get to, and its November 22, 2009. Please let me know if you are interested so I can work on rooms. I want to reserve them now and I need a rough estimate. Yes, you can change your mind if you decide not to go.

That's all for now.

Keep on keepin' on...

Joyce

Sunday, March 1, 2009

Coffee talk - 3/01/09

Pour your coffee and settle in, coffee talk is about to begin...

Where in the world is Jill Lifrak this week? The woman travels more than Matt Lauer and I am having the hardest time keeping up with her. Hope to have you back with us soon, Jill. We miss you, your watch and your conversation.

Just when you thought it was safe to go back out onto the road again, another storm is looming on the horizon. See what happens when we get too comfortable? I even ran without a jacket on Friday. Not this week. Temps are dropping and the roads are going to be covered if we get all the snow we are supposed to get. That groundhog was right. Another 6 weeks before its all over.

The schedule has been posted and for those of you who are planning to run New Bedford, this is your last week before you taper. Not sure how many have signed up, but please let me know when you do. For those of you training for a marathon and still plan to run New Bedford, your mileage may be a bit staggered. What's a couple of miles, give or take, when you're running along the water in March?

Once again the walk/run group came out in full force on Saturday. They are now at a 4 minute walk 2 minute run. Before you know it, everyone will be running a full 5K without a hitch.

Some of us ran long on Friday, some ran long on Saturday. Some may have even run today. Our team for March 21 is going to be strong, no question. Which brings me to my next topic...

It has been brought to my attention that some of our male counterparts, aka spouses, have been tearing up the roads in preparation for this March 21 event. Now I can assure you that my husband is NOT tearing up any type of road and has no intention of doing so. He just received his AARP card and is quite content with his pace (I mean place) on the couch. However, I do feel that the boys who are "training" should be recognized. They are climbing "mountains" (otherwise known as Jacobs Hill but seriously, is it really a hill to us anymore? Bring on Rocky Hill--now THAT'S a hill), tracking their mileage via automobile (because MapMyRun is so inefficient, not to mention "green"), and "managing" their pace not with stamina but with a calculator by simply substracting a few seconds here and there when and where they feel its warranted. However, knowing these "Sole Bro's" as I do, and as you will eventually come to know them if you don't already, you will also realize that these guys mean business. They are not out for the sheer fun of it all as we are. They are out for the win, and win they will. I'm glad they're on our side. Names are being withheld in order to protect their identity. They are our secret weapon come March 21.

I am keeping it short this Sunday, but you will hear from me throughout the week. Stay warm.

Keep on keepin' on.

Joyce

Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Tuesday / Thursday Conditioning, by Sandy

Here we are working out at the Y this morning -- led by our fearless leader, Joyce. On Tuesday and Thursday mornings many of the "Sole Sisters" gather at the Y for Joyce's conditioning class. Usually you leave with some part of your body quivering from exertion, but that's good, right?
The great thing about the class (in my opinion) is that it's different every time, and tortures (did I say that?) different parts of the body each time. I was feeling pretty dern good about myself and my running progress, until I started taking Joyce's class. I can run 6 miles, but can't squat? What is my problem? Well, the problem is, that without Joyce saying "8 more" and then another "8 more" and another and another ... I would simply stop at 16. (Why doesn't she just say "160! Let's GO!"? She's probably trying to avoid an all out mutiny where we all stomp out an head over the Dunkin' Donuts. That's what I think.)
The added bonus is that (believe it or not) a handful of Sole Sisters head out after the workout for a quick run. I know, you're thinking "that's crazy!" but really, it's not bad! If you're around on Tuesday and Thursday mornings at 9:00 a.m., join in. It's so much more fun to work out with friends. 

Sunday, February 22, 2009

Coffee Talk 2/22

Pour your coffee and settle in, coffee talk is about to begin...

I don't know about anybody else but I feel like I'm still recovering from last week's race. Ever have a week where you just can't seem to get out of your own way? That's how I have been feeling. I could not kick it into high gear this week. All my body wanted to do was rest, rest, rest. So I did. I am determined to get out there this week, though, and stay on track for the New Bedford 1/2. For those of you planning to run the 1/2, please sign up when you can and let me know. Last year there were 3 of us--Lisa Letourneau, Courtnee Munson and me. And I went there kicking and screaming the entire way. And for those of you who have a memory (I really don't but this one detail stands out in my mind)that was the day I discovered how terrible multi-grain bagels are without cream cheese. I stand by that statement today.

But as always, I digress. Another sign of the aging process and dementia.

The New Bedford 1/2 is a terrific precursor to a marathon, especially for those of you who are planning to run the full marathon in May (Providence/Cox Rhode Race). This will give you an idea of what your marathon pace would be--not exact, but pretty darn close. It's also a chance for us to run together. I will advise you, though, that it is not a race to be taken lightly. It can be very cold along the water. There are also 2 hills that are rather daunting and of course one is at the end. So when deciding, remember those 2 factors.

We all gathered on Saturday, 2/21, for our weekly long run. As always, choosing the best weather day is key and Saturday seemed to be it for the majority. I mapped out a route and did so under time constraints. With that said, I think I made a mistake on the route (gee, what a surprise.) I did check the prime time records and know that everyone got back so I hope you didn't get too lost. Jane, Courtnee, Tara, Liz, Cynthia and myself headed out together for our long runs. I have to say that it was cold running through farm country in Rehoboth. Had I known, I would have mapped another route. Nice runs, ladies. Jane tacked on an additional 3 miles for her marathon prep. I give her a lot of credit. I didn't have it in me. Courtnee kept a nice pace the entire time. Tara, Liz and Cynthia tackled their runs as well and are gearing up for a strong 1/2 marathon in the spring.

The walk/run group had a strong turnout yesterday. Led by Chris Ross, Karen Araujo, Lisa Cote, Lisa's sister and brother-in-law, Debbie and Tom (visiting from Florida), Mary, Lori and Mary Ellen ventured out for 3.2 miles. Nice job everyone. If you know of anyone who would like to join in, bring them along. Chris will continue to lead the group and follow a pace that is appropriate for everybody. Please make sure you review the weekly Walk/Run 5K schedule and tailor it to your individual needs. For example, when you see 2.75 miles, you can walk/run 2.75 miles if you don't feel you are up to running the entire distance. Set a pace that works for you. Before you know it, you will be running 3.2 without stopping. Please plan to meet in the lobby at 8:45 a.m. for a 9:00 a.m. start time. You can use the 15 minutes to stretch.

Sandy Pereira went out with her husband, Victor, yesterday afternoon for a nice 6 mile run. I talked to Katie Damon as well and she ran her mileage yesterday which include Hillside. If you haven't run Hillside yet, don't worry, you will. CJ and Stacie ran out and back on Route 152 and got their mileage in as well. After talking with them, it seems 152 was the warmer route. I wish I had mapped that one. Lisa Letourneau ran yesterday afternoon and was getting out there this morning as well. How did you feel like doing that? Jill Lifrak was also out with her husband, Joe, this morning and got 13 miles under her belt. I feel so incomplete without all of you.

When we all meet in the lobby, we need to meet closer to the door. The front desk is blocked and members are having a hard time getting around us. It is also difficult to for the staff to hear the phones. Just something to keep in mind when we meet.

Luca will be setting up tri-swimming shortly. This is for people who want to improve their swimming ability in preparation for a triathlon. I know we had discussed a triathlon race for all of us to take part in. I would like to get your feedback as far as races are concerned. If there is a race that you would recommend for beginners, or a race that you plan on doing, please let me know so we can share it with the group. Sherilynn Pearce has mentioned Danskin, which is an option. Courtnee and I have done Bayside. Lisa has done Wild Dog. There are plenty of them out there, just let me know your opinions.

There will be a HIIT session next Sunday, followed by a swim, provided that the pool is open.

I think that's all for now. Have a great week.

Joyce

Monday, February 16, 2009

Coffee Talk

Pour your coffee and settle in, coffee talk is about to begin...

First and foremost, congratulations to everyone who participated in yesterday's race. A ten mile race is a huge accomplishment and one that you should all be proud of. This is just the beginning of racing season. There are many more to come.

Cherylynn Brownback ran a fantastic race yesterday. New to pavement, this girl showed no mercy on the track. In fact, Cher is so inpsired she plans to run the Providence Marathon in May. We are with you all the way, Cher. Maybe not the entire 26.2 but I promise we will be at several locations throughout the day. :) Seriously, hook up with Jill Lifrak, Jane Morris, Laurel McLaughlin and Nicole Coutu if you are looking to train for the marathon. They are terrific to run with.

Linda Britt you are awesome! It was great to meet you yesterday and see you cross that finish line. Make sure you sign up for our next big one if you can--New Bedford 1/2 marathon. Linda, Cheryl and my sister, Lisa, all work together and Linda has been training faithfully on her own. Your effort and hard work paid off yesterday. Nice run, girl.

Cynthia Corbett you are officially back. There should be no stopping you at this point and I know you will easily handle the 1/2 marathon in Providence come spring. This is your year. Enjoy!

Laurel McLaughlin, just one day shy of 40, ran a fabulous race and is also considering (and I think she's going to do it) the Providence marathon. You ran a fantastic race, Laurel, and I am so happy that you were able to do it while you were still 39. Providence will be a breeze.

Sandy Barbour ran the race of her life yesterday. Not only has she been following this training to the letter, she has been working hard to increase her strength and stamina at the gym. It showed yesterday, Sandy. Who said you weren't going to get any faster?

Cheryl Withers, I cannot believe you crossed that finish line with the headache you had and still had a smile on your face at the end of the race. You are one strong woman and I am so proud of you for finishing and I'm grateful that you're part of this team. You always have great advice and I always learn something new from you that I can add to my runs. Trust me ladies, if you have questions, ask Cheryl.

Katie Damon and Sandy Pereira crossed the finish line together and supported each other from start to finish. Katie you ran a terrific race. Sandy, I knew you could do it! I am so happy for both of you. Now make sure you sign up for a 1/2 marathon. Really, what's 3 more miles once you have 10 under your belt?

Tara Marceau, you never lose your cool. Even when we couldn't find your number, you were willing to sit out and cheer for your teammates. HA! Not happening. You ran a fantastic race and I know that the next race we do will be even better. You have come so far. And am I hearing rumblings that a triathlon is in your future or is it just rumor?

Liz Fasteson you have come so far in such a short time. For someone who does not like to run outside this time of year, you had no problem doing so on Sunday. So psyched to hear that you plan to run the 1/2 marathon. You are so close to it now you may as well.

CJ Jasionowski you surprise me all the time. I thought you were still running with a few minutes to go and lo and behold I turn around and find you inside the building reserving a table for all of us. Great race Sunday. Are you up for the 1/2 as well?

Chrs Ross, Monique Francouer and Erin Sears, its not easy to walk/run 10 miles but you did it. I heard Monique that you were "all set" at about mile 9 and proceeded to just run it in. Erin I am so glad you are back with us. Hope that hip is okay and you can run one or two of the next races. Chris, thanks so much for your efforts with the walk/run group. I know I say it all the time but really--without the walk/run group, there would be no "newbies"

Nicole Coutu I am so happy for you and really proud of you as well. You ran a terrific race on Sunday and not only got yourself across the finish line but you stayed with your sister-in-law to help her. You are an amazing person and I am so glad you are part of this group. Will we see you in New Bedford?

Lisa Letourneau, aka Prancy, surprised herself with her time and the ease of her race. It is great to have you back running distance not only because you're good but because you're so much fun. And its not because your my sister that I say all this. If it weren't for you nudging me to run, there would be none of this. So really, its you we need to thank.

Tracey Mahoney, this is probably your last race of the season and I must say I was so pleased and impressed. You ran a great race and I hope you are proud of what you accomplished Sunday. Before you know it, you'll be back on the road.

Jane Sincere Morris, you were fantastic on Sunday especially after running 12 on Friday at that vomit inducing pace. Where do you find the strength? the energy? What is it that you are eating? Please share your secrets because truly you are a dynamo.

Michelle Polk, I am so happy that you crossed that finish line with a smile on your face and a light step. Huge accomplishment and I know this race had a lot of sentimental value for you. Looking forward to seeing you cross the next big one.

Brenda Booth, the determined runner. No matter how much pain she is in, she just keeps going. I love your attitude Brenda and your tenacity. I promise all the bruising and "surgical" physical therapy you're receiving will pay off. And I'm proud of you for going through all of that. Its not easy to do but as always you do what needs to be done.

Stacie Tracey I love when you finish a race. I know you didn't feel as though you were prepared as you would have liked due to vacation but you ran so well. You have come so far and the Providence 1/2 is going to be your best race ever. Can I interest you in New Bedford?

Courtnee Munson, you never give up. I love your style, girl, and I will always love you as a running partner. You are a terrific athlete all around and one of the strongest runners we have on this team, not just physically, but mentally as well. It is, as always, a privilege, to run with you.

Lori Keough you are one of those silent but deadly runners. This is the woman who runs in 7 degree weather regardless of wind. The woman who sticks to a schedule and makes it part of her life regardless of responsibilities. I just wish we saw more of her. But one can't have everything especially when you work like Lori does. You were phenomenal, Lori. I am so proud of you and I hope you and your family are proud of you as well.

Josie Dutil it is great to see you back in action. I know there were a few weeks when running did not look to be a possibility but you are back. You were great on Sunday and I know that you plan to tear through Boston come spring. We will be rooting for you every step of the way.

I think I have covered all of my bases. Congratulations to Keith, Jane, Aimee, Rob and Lorie. We would love to have you join us for any long run you might be up for. I don't like to talk about people when they don't expect it, but Keith, you are amazing. Jane, you must be an Olympian, Aimee, awesome job; Rob and Lorie, great race great run.

Please make sure you register for the St. Pat's race and the New Bedford 1/2 marathon. Let me know when you register. St. Pat's is a family team so when you register, the pass code is Team Newman Password is 111500. We are all going to ReRa after for a post celebration. I'm sure everyone else at the race will be there too.

Our annual awards dinner will be held Friday, May 15. This is where we get out of our sweaty smelly running clothes and put on a little paint and powder for kicks. Please mark your calendars accordingly. This is a night not to be missed.

I think that's all for now. Enjoy the week.

Keep on keepin on...

Joyce