2020 in review and looking towards 2021.

(In February before Covid hit)

At the end of 2019 I was very excited for 2020 and the potential it had.  I was easing up on racing and focusing more on running and finding the joy again along with taking it easy on my hip.  I only had a handful of races that I was signed up, which I was excited.  January started and ended up back at Physical Therapy as I prepared for my race in Atlanta in February.  Closer to the race a report about Covid came out and Tokyo Marathon cancelled for general entries.  I was a little afraid of Atlanta cancelling but the closer we got the more assurance I had that it would go on. Atlanta was an amazing experience I was attempting a sub 2:30 goal which I hadn't run in about 5 years and reached 2:29:29.  As we headed back to the hotel we stopped by the Olympic rings and found out the winner of the Olympic Marathon Trials (Aliphine Tuliamuk) was taking pictures so I got to meet her and get a picture.  That was amazing.

(Picture with the Olympic Marathon Trials winner)

Once I got back from Atlanta and races were getting cancelled I decided to see if I can get the surgery to fix my hip.  Due to Covid I had to wait about 2 months but the day eventually came.  This was my first surgery ever and it was weird being in a hospital by myself.  The surgery lasted maybe an hour and a half and then headed home.  It was a long journey to recovery and something nobody really talks about.  It was nice being at home as I could focus on my recovery and thankful to great friends that helped me get better.  It was the best year for surgery. And kind of happy more races got cancelled as recovery took longer than expected and didn't have to rush the process, which I still did haha.

(First PT session after surgery)

July came around and adulting became even more real...I was buying a house.  That was super stressful, I learned so much in a small time period but thankful to have my brother and friends to help me through it.  I closed in August, which was a weird experience because I never thought I would buy a house any time soon but had the opportunity so might as well.  I looked a one house and bought it, I'm not super picky.  The moving process and getting everything situated took a long time and still taking time but not running a lot gave me time to be able to fix the house up a bit.  I painted all the walls and most of the doors.  Once we are able to gather I will have a party.

(I got the keys)

September rolled around and it became the most emotional month.  I lost my mom to cancer and because of Covid and not being in LA it was harder to be able to be with her.  I was able to see her before her passing.  I'm thankful to the hospital staff that took care of her and see her for the last time.  I know she is with me and will continue to run for her and keep her in my heart.

(Throwback family picture)

As I am writing this, we are few days away from 2021.  There is so much hope that things may go back to normal and that we can gather soon.  I know we have more months of social distancing and staying 6 feet apart but we are getting closer.  Right about now I would be planning goals for 2021 but I'm leaving 2021 open for anything. I would like to run more half marathons and potential marathon but mainly I want to stay healthy and continue to run.   I'm tired of hearing the word Covid and I know many others are too, let our Doctors, Nurses and Health officials do their job and we will be back to normal.  I pray that 2021 bring more happiness for everyone and that people that have lost their job can find other ones.  It's been a stressful year for everyone different ways and hoping that we are all able to live together in peace and thrive.  Happy New Year.   

The Elf Virtual Run

"Disclaimer: I received an entry to this race to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!"

As the Christmas season approaches I'm excited to have some themed runs.  Growing up I looked forwarded to Christmas day and opening presents.  As I grow older I'm less into gifts and more into races.  I'm excited that Ram Racing/EnMotive are putting on several Christmas/Holiday races.  I would love to have an in person holiday race on Christmas day like Thanksgiving but with the current pandemic that is not an option.  I'm sign up for the Elf Virtual Run which I'm super excited because I love the movie.  I'll run this race hopefully on Christmas day, maybe with some snow.  

I've been very impressed with Ram Racing and their swag gear.  This will be my third race with this group and love getting the jacket, heavy duty medal and other swag we are given.   In this race you will receive a fully zip jacket with pockets, a snow globe-inspired finisher medal, winter beanie and a personalized running bib.  So why not put some motivation back into your pocket and complete this race for all of this.

I know motivation can be tough during this time, grab a family member in your household and sign up for this virtual run.  The link to sign up is below and let me know if you have any question.  Make sure to follow the race on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.  Happy Running and don't forget to tag the race and hashtag #RunWithBuddy

https://www.elfvirtualrun.com/virtual/
FB - @ElfVirtualRun
Twitter - @RAMRacing

Instagram - @ElfVirtualRun

Check out what other BibRave Pros are saying about this race

Karen - Race Recap: Elf Virtual Run

Buff DryFlx+ Gear Product Review

"Disclaimer: I received Buff DryFlx+ geat to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!"

The past few weeks I was able to try out the new Buff DryFlx+ hat and neckwarmer. This is a new collection from Buff for cold winters.  As someone who lives in Oklahoma the temperatures can get really cold and without a treadmill the only way to get my miles is outside.  

Before I received the product I was a little worried that the hat and neckwarmer would be too small for my big head/face and it could potentially be too tight.  After putting it on the first time I really didn't have anything to worry about it.  The hat and neckwarmer have a 4-Way Ultra Stretch and able to be put on easily without cutting circulation for me.  It felt super comfortable and really like how there are two pieces that come together.  I can wear both, or either piece on it's own.  

I tried the hat and neckwarmer for my virtual race and a 20 miles bike ride which were around 35ish degrees and high wind.  I will say I was very impressed.  I felt very warm during my run and ride where I had to take it off for a brief second to cool down.  The thermal insulation was definitely working.  The fabric was very high quality and does not look cheap.  I haven't seen the reflective elements yet as my activities were done in the day light. Another awesome part of the neckwarmer is that you can tuck it into your shirt which is a nice feature.  When it gets really cold out any skin that is showing might get a blast of cold air and it is not fun.  In the top picture I was able to fit my aftershockz and my glasses with the DryFlx+ gear comfortably and in the picture below I had my glasses and airpods in along with my helmet.  I really appreciate how fabric stretches as I need to have my music and glasses during my physical activities.  

I definitely approve of this produce and excited to take it out for a cold race and my other virtual races in December.  You should check these products along with several other items in the DryFlx+ collection. https://buffusa.com/shop-buff/dryflx-plus.html        

For a discount visit https://buffusa.com/bibrave and sign up for BUFF® newsletter & get 15% OFF. #BUFFRunBR  #BibChat #BibRavePro @bibrave 

Check out what other BibRave Pros are saying about the DryFlx+

Chris - Product Review: Buff® DryFlx+ Collection

Jaimelee - Winter Gear Wirth Going Out For

Janell - Product Review- BUFF® DryFlx+ Collection

Jeremy - Stay Warm & Cozy all Winter with Buff DryFlx+ Hat & Neckwear

Jessica - BibRave Product Review: Running Winter Warmer with Buff® DryFlx+ Collection

J-Mac - BUFF DryFlx+ Product Review

Karen - Product Review:  Buff® DryFlx+ Collection

Kristi - BUFF DryFlx+ Collection Review

Krista - Cover Your Head - Running in the Cold — FitXBrit

Ken - Product Review: BUFF DryFlx+ Collection – Combat the Cold!

Lissa - Hating the Cold a Little Less with the Buff® DryFlx+ Collection

Michelle - BUFF® DryFlx+ Collection Product Review

Scotty - Buff® DryFlx+ Collection

What's next?

This year has been interesting as at this time of year I would have my racing scheduled for 2021.  As many runners have been through a challenge time this year many are skeptical about racing returning next year and sacred of potentially losing money if COVID is not under control and or a vaccine is not available for everyone.  It's a hard balance as I love to sign up for races but also as a new home owner I have other items that I should priorities. 

2020 isn't over and after completing two virtual races this last week I currently have a lot more virtual races left...why did I do this to myself haha.  Currently below are the remaining virtual race I have.  Most of them I can incorporate into my training, but the half marathons will be a challenge.  I'm exciting to run my first half marathon post surgery with the Route 66 Half Marathon, I know this will be very challenging but I'm okay with walking it if needed.  I've made tremendous progress and want to make sure I don't mess that up.  I'm excited to be getting my race packet soon in the mail along with other virtual races I receive. 

- Route 66 5K and Half Marathon

- Turkey Tracks 5K

- Boston Finish Strong Challenge: 5K, 10K and Half Marathon

Looking ahead to 2021 I am currently signed up for two races, both were postponed to COVID 19.  One I did technically defer but then COVID hit and the race was cancelled.  In March I am scheduled to run the Best Damn Race NOLA half marathon and then in October I am signed up for the Hot Chocolate OKC 15K.  Will I sign up for more races? Probably but will wait til the last minute to make sure it is in person.  I would definitely like to run another marathon but I know recovering will be a challenge.  I guess time will tell.  What is on your race schedule? Drop a comment on my IG post. 

Road to Recovery

Recovery is never easy but it's important to have friends around you that will help you get there.  As I'm writing this today it's been four months.  It's been a slow and fast four months as in while I'm living through it time goes slow but looking back it's been really fast.  I have made a lot of progress and thankful to be walking.  I have had some pain but nothing that I can't handle.  I have been asking a ton of questions to my physical therapist to make sure I am the right choices in my daily exercises.  

Looking back the first four weeks were the worst for me as I was on crutches and it was hard for me to do things.  I'm so thankful to my roommate and friend KJ who took care of me while I recover.  I'm very independent and like to do things for myself but glad he was there for me.  He did way more than a friend should but glad he was there.  Since I was working from home at that time it was easy for me to focus on my recovery.  I think if I had to go into work I would have taken a month off as it's hard to move around.  

The next transition was going from two crutches to one/a cane. Going from being very dependent on crutches to less support was hard.  I always wondered if I was doing something wrong but it was part of the process.  After a few days it got easier to support myself.  Crazy what a few weeks of not using your muscles will do.  The day that I was able to walk freely was so amazing.  It's crazy going through this recovery process and now I know I don't want to have to go through that again.  Through the weeks after I was slowly increasing my mileage while strengthening different parts of my body.  It is very important to go to Physical Therapy as they will help you get better faster. I've seen others who have went through surgery and didn't follow the rules and have more issues after surgery.  The longest walk to date has been 7 miles, mainly because life happens.  As I continue to train and look towards my Allstate Hot Chocolate 15K I'm right on schedule for mileage. 

Even through races are being cancelled left and right, not having races has helped me through this tough time of recovery.  I don't get FOMO and also doesn't make me rush to get back to running.  I have been able to focus on my recovery and physical therapy.  About a month ago I thought I was supposed to be released to jog and got the bad news that it will be another 6 weeks.  It was hard news to swallow, like real hard.  But knowing all my fall races were cancelled/may be cancelled made it a little easier to not rush my recovery and listen to the surgeon. 

I'm excited to have a follow up in two weeks and hopefully be released to start jogging.  I'm excited to return to the sport and be able to hang out with my friends while running.   I think the challenge for me is getting back into my routine in terms of eating right, hydrating and remembering what clothes to wear for different temperatures.  I'm ready for the challenge and the cooler weather.

2020 Hot Chocolate OKC Virtual Race

"Disclaimer: I received an entry to this race to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!"

This year's race season has been challenging between COVID and then having surgery.  I was hoping that the 2020 Hot Chocolate OKC race would continue as I am on a streak for 3 year legacy but due to the COVID it makes sense not to have the race.  I'm excited that Hot Chocolate OKC 15K/5K has gone virtual so I can earn the awesome swag and continue my legacy.  

I ran my first Hot Chocolate Race in 2015 in Dallas.  I remember how exciting the environment was and running a race that wasn't a 5K, 10K or half rather a 15K.  I had made the trip down from OKC with friends but I was the only one running the 15K. It was just a blast, I love having all the chocolate during the race and getting a medal chocolate bar at the finish line. The bling itself was worth it.  Sadly I didn't take many pictures back then but I did come back to the race in 2019 as moving took me away from being close to Dallas.  Since Dallas was the closest race when moving back to OKC my friends and I made another trip.  I'm so glad I did, I was able to push myself and in the last few miles increase my speed.  I love the environment as it's full of all types of runners, may completing their first race/Hot Chocolate race because who wouldn't run for chocolate.  Then the finish line always has a bowl of goodies such as Hot Chocolate and various chocolate snacks.

Here is a picture at the finish line about to pass out from racing hard. 

The bling...do I need to say more?

Running the inaugural Hot Chocolate OKC 15K.  I got the opportunity to pace and help runners reach their goal.

Again...the bling 2019 Hot Chocolate OKC.

I'm excited to be running the 2020 Hot Chocolate OKC Virtual 15K.  I even have friends that are getting together and running it around OKC.  This most-likely will be my longest distance post surgery but either way I will get it done.  I'm excited for the new swag and medal (pictured below).  They have definitely kept up with game with their gear.  I haven't been disappointed in their swag since I started running with them in 2015. Thank you for Hot Chocolate and BibRave for the opportunity to run this amazing race again. 

Surgery

First off surgery was never on my list to have done while I was in my thirties but guess it was in the books.  I have an impingement that is congenital.  I did have to look up what congenital meant, basically I have had it since birth. Weeks before the surgery I was getting stressed trying to figure out the insurance portion. I was not worried about the surgery itself but what I would have to pay and what insurance was going to cover.  Thankful the individuals at Mercy Ortho helped me through it.  The procedure I would have is a hip scope and labral tear repair.

Due to COVID I had to get tested no more than 48 hours prior to surgery and that was nerve racking waiting to get the results.  I was negative and was able to move forward with the surgery.  I didn't know what to expect in this surgery as this was my first procedure.  I'm thankful for modern medicine, normally this surgery they would have to cut you open but now this procedure can be done as a minimal invasive procedure which means they will make small incisions (three to be exact) to complete the procedure.  The night prior to surgery there were things I couldn't do such as couldn't eat or drink past 11 pm, couldn't use lotion after my shower and then the day of I couldn't have my contacts in.  I made sure to follow all the direction given so that I could get the surgery.

Waiting for the nurse to call me back.

Surgery day!  My surgery was schedule at 8 am and had to check in at 5:30 am.  It was a weird experience going into the hospital as COVID was happening as it was empty.  They limited the amount of patients but also there were no visitors allowed.  Once the nurse called me back, I knew I was walking in but going to be wheeled out.  That was a weird realization.  I got into my room and changed into my gown.  At least five different people came into my room at various times: two nurses, the doctor, the anesthesiologist and the OR nurse. The first nurse took my blood pressure and it was very high, she was a little worried but when I shared that this was my first procedure she gave me some time to calm down before taking it again.  The second nurse was the one that was going to prep me for my surgery.  She was a lot of fun to have around as she lighten the mood.  The funniest thing was when she tried to give me a pill and I asked if I could eat it.  She just stared at me.  I shared that I couldn't swallow pills and she was in shock.  She was able to give me a tiny bit of water to get it down but nothing more.  Then she goes to put an IV in me and the first hand didn't work well so she went over to my left hand.  I said something about my body being difficult and she was like I'll beat the vain out of you.  That made me laugh.  She was finally able to get it in.  The surgeon came in to answer any questions and mark my leg of the side that I will be getting the surgery on.  Last but not least was the anesthesiologist, he shared that he will be doing a nerve block, which will block the sensation in the regional part of my body.  After that he will control the rest of my anesthesia.  He shared this is the best way to do it.  Is it too late to turn back?

My new swag and bed for surgery.

After my little talks, the OR nurse was ready to take me away.  I'm glad she wasn't driving the surgery as she accidentally bumped my surgery bed I was on into the walls all the way to the OR.  I was told it is heavy from friends later.  Once I got into the room, it was just a weird feelings that I'm doing this.  It all happened fast but I believe there was six people in the room.  They wheeled me up to the bed.  First up was the anesthesiologist, he did the nerve block which was taking a needle with some type of drugs and putting it directly into my hip.  The needle was not the best feeling but he said that will be the worst part.  He then shared that when I started to feel tired it was him making me go to sleep.  He then asked if I can move myself onto the operating table and I said yes.  I moved over and within a second of getting myself onto the OR table I was out.  I don't remember anything about the surgery.

Ready for surgery.

The next thing I knew was the nurse asked me how she can put my mask back on my face and that my toes were cold.  I was groggy from the surgery and it was hard to move my right leg.  The nurse shared that everything went well and there was water and crackers for me next to my bed.  I started to eat the crackers and the second one I had I dropped on the floor, which made me feel sad.  I wish someone had that on tape. Haha.  Within 30-40 mins of returning to my room I was being wheeled out to the car, where my amazing friend KJ was there waiting for me. I was really appreciative that he took time off of work to take me and then pick me up.  I'm not the type of person that ask for help so I'm glad that he was there.  If I could have drove home I would, but that wasn't the case.  Tune in later when I go through my recovery.

Getting home from the hospital.

Journey to Surgery

After an amazing 2018 season I started having pain in my right hip while I was on a trip to California. 

First run that I felt the pain. 

Thinking it was overuse I kept going until the pain got a little worst. I ended up seeing a running doctor when I was back in OKC.  After an eval and x-ray he figured out that I had an impingement that caused a labral tear.  He suggested that I get an MRI to double check, and when the results came back it was confirmed.  Luckily in 2019 I was able to rehab my hip and finish all of my scheduled races without a DNF thanks to my amazing doctor and physical therapist at PT Central. 

2020 didn't start well as the pain came back.  I knew this could happen but was holding out that it would keep me running for longer without any issues.  I took another chance and rehabbed it but it wasn't working.  I would continue to have pain and even had trouble sleeping.  At that point I knew I would have to get it done within the year.  I figured I would get through my planned races and get the surgery done either in the summer or after my fall races of 2020.

Picture from a ten miler, and almost exactly at mile 7 I start to feel my hip.

After my race in Atlanta at the Publix half marathon, where I finally broke 2:30 half (which had taken me 5 years to reach) Covid was becoming more prevalent in the US.  With the disappointment of races being postponed I reached out to another ortho surgeon and got an updated MRI but also a hip injection to 1) to make sure that the injury did not get worst over the last year and 2) if the hip injection works then it isn't the tear that is causing the pain.  The next week I came back and the tear was not worst than the previous MRI and the hip injection didn't work so he recommended surgery.

 With the Olympic Marathon Trial winner Aliphine Tuliamuk

After several talks with friends and my current PT I decided to go to another surgeon at Mercy Orthopedics.  Dr. Brantley reviewed my recent x-ray and recent MRI, then finish the visit with an eval on the hip.  After he was done he said he believes he can help me (once elective surgery resumed).  He didn't pressure me but shared that it looks like I have tried many different options and nothing was working.   With OKC Marathon being postponed I decided if elective surgery started up in a certain time period that gave me the option to run in the fall that I would go for it.

Elective surgery started at the end of April.  I knew that I could potentially get a call soon.  Mid May I got a called and the nurse stated if I was still interested.  I was like yes I am.  We scheduled my surgery for May 22.  Up until that day I ran like I wasn't going to run again.  It was a crazy two months and was able to set a PR in miles per month with 112 in April and also run a couple of virtual half marathon.  I was told it will be a process to be able to regain strength and to run again but decided that surgery was the best option as I didn't want to have pain at all.  The story will continue on the next blog. 

Publix Atlanta Half Marathon

This race was on my to do list, for two reasons.  The first reason is I am trying to complete a half marathon in each state.  The second reason is that the race partnered with the Olympic Marathon trials, so if I went down to Atlanta I could see the best US road racing runners race to make a spot on Team USA.  Once registration opened I signed up and I was ecstatic.  We decided to arrive on Thursday to make sure we had enough time to see the city but also be able to participate in some of the extra activities that were brought to the city because of the Olympic trials. 

The first night we decided to go to a social run with Saucony, as they were releasing their new shoes which were the Endrophin Pro and having a Q&A with some of the Saucony endorsed runners.  I was sad I wasn't able to try on the Endorphin Pro because I have wide feet.  I did hear some good reviews from others runners there and some even purchased the shoe.  I didn't know much about the Endorphin Pro but it was awesome to hear that Jared Ward was part of the design of these shoes and he wouldn't stop until it was perfect.  We were able to meet some of the athletics afterwards and I decided to get a picture with Jared.  Jared was such a nice and humble guy.  I was excited to see him perform that Saturday.  

Flash forward to Sunday and the challenge ahead of me, which was running a sub 2:30 half.   This was a scary goal as I've been trying for 5 years for this sub 2:30.  Also this was one of the most difficult course because of the hills.  We started the morning by going to the Half Fanatic/Marathon Maniac tent to drop off our gear.  Then it was off to the start corral. 

The start corral very crowded, I tried to move up to the 2:30 pacers but it was hard because of the crowd so I decided I'll take on the challenge by myself but make sure that I keep an eye on them.  Sadly I forgot to print off a 2:30 pace band so I decided to calculate the time in my head.  I knew I had to run a sub 11:30 per mile but also take into consideration if I did not run the tangents that could add distance which would then add time to the clock.  The course was beautiful, it showcased the city well while also keeping us on our toes with the rolling hills.  I think calculating the time helped take my mind off the hills, being tired and how many miles I had left as I had to make sure I had my numbers correct.  I had some doubts of my ability to calculate time while I run so I made sure I had some banked time just in case there were any issues.  Once I got to mile 12 I knew I had a chance.  I didn't want to get too confident as all runners know anything can happen.  Once I saw the turn to the finish line, which was the same finish line as the Olympic trials I knew I had it in the bag.  I crossed the finish line with so much excitement and joy.  I couldn't believe my eyes, a sub 2:30.  Official finish time was 2:29:29.  The picture below was taken right after the race at the finish line.  

I decided to enjoy my finish by grabbing some coffee and wait for my friend to finish.  During that hour of waiting I was able to reflect on my run but also cheer on other runners while they finish.   The people of Atlanta were amazing and the race organizers did a great job in managing the race.  I felt safe from traffic and well sported while I run.  On the way back to our hotel I really wanted a finisher pick with the Olympic rings.  Little did I know that I would get a picture with Aliphine Tullamuk, who won the Olympic trials the day before.  She was so nice, she asked me about my race and how it went.  Just to be right next to her was an honor and can't wait to see her crush the marathon in Japan in 2021. 

I would definitely recommend this run for anyone who wants to check off Atlanta on their journey for all 50 states.  From the swag, to the course, to the people of Atlanta and lastly the medal it was an amazing experience.  I can't wait to the next Olympic Trials so I can cheer on the best of the best.