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My ET Half-Marathon Experience August 11, 2009

Posted by Staci in : Diet/Fitness, General Ramblings, Vacations , add a comment   

So as I mentioned before a friend of mine and I decided to train and walk a half marathon. The one we picked was called the ET Half Marathon in Rachel NV. It took place along the Extraterrestrial Highway outside of Area 51. The actual finish line was at The A’Le’Inn which is an inn/restaurant/shop in Rachel NV.

Our adventure started on Friday Aug 3rd. We boarded a plane to Las Vegas. The flight was actually a bit bumpy the whole way through. Lots of turbulence and one of the flight attendants actually fell down while trying to serve drinks. Once we landed the fun started. We caught a cab to the Luxor and checked in. The room was on the 12th floor of the pyramid. It was actually quite roomy inside and I loved the Egyptian themed decorations. After we put our bags away we decided to get dinner at the café and then go to the Bodies and Titanic exhibits.

The Bodies exhibit was very interesting. The preserved bodes didn’t look real. They looked like plastic mannequins. It was pretty neat to see how everything connected together. They also had an area of embryos and fetuses that showed how a baby develops. It was interesting to see how they go from a mass of unrecognizable cells to looking like a baby in just a matter of weeks. I can see the educational uses of an exhibit like this. I didn’t find it at all disturbing or disrespectful of the bodies.

The Titanic exhibit was one I had visited before when it was at the Tropicana a couple of years ago. This one was basically the same, but there was an added piece. It is a large part of the hull called “The Big Piece” Up close it looks massive, but when you look at the drawing of the area of the boat it came from and the overall size of the ship it is just a small part. It sort of puts things in perspective.
After that we went to the Excalibur, the New York, New York, and the MGM Grand. We walked through them and took a few pictures of the strip from the walkway between the New York, New York and the MGM Grand. We journeyed back to our hotel and called it a night.

The next morning started with a fight in the room next door. It started around 1 and lasted until about 230 or so. It was pretty funny. They were shouting about who cared about whom more and the woman not being able to do her hair. We were joking about it while we got ready to head out. We stopped at a great Italian place at the New York, New York for pasta before the race. The bread was outstanding and the pasta was very good as well. It was a great choice for carb loading before the event. We then caught a cab to the host hotel to check in. The line was long and things were a bit disorganized. One line, separated into lines by name and event, back to one line for t-shirt and reflective tape pick up. The room was just a jumble of people. Once we got though that we went to the lobby and found a place to sit to wait until time to get on the bus.

The bus ride was about 2 hours long and the first hour was pure torture. It was bad enough that the bus was crammed with people, the seats for uncomfortable, and there was no way to stretch our legs. The worse part of the whole thing was how freezing cold it was on the bus due to the air conditioner and the drivers obsession with Michael Jackson Music. She had a CD on repeat. After an hour she finally turned off the A/C and about 15 minutes after that we were able to enjoy silence.

We reached the starting line for the marathon runners and were able to see them off. At the start they were all bunched together, but then when our bus drove by them to the Half-Marathon starting line we could see gaps forming between groups of people. One guy was out in the lead by quite a ways. He was really moving along. As our bus took us to our starting line I started to wonder if maybe I should not have signed up for this. Nerves were eating me up inside and I was really having second thoughts. But I wasn’t there alone so I had to get this done. Ruth and I got off the bus to wait for our start. We were freezing. Oh man it was cold. I was wearing 3 shirts. My Philly Kick shirt, the long sleeve shirt they gave me (because it was so cold), and over that my white shirt with my bib pinned on and my reflective tape. My teeth were chattering it was so cold outside. Luckily we did not have to wait very long before the race started.

When the bell went off we started moving forward. Ruth and I got separated during the start of the race because of the excitement and the crowd. We joined up again about a quarter of a mile into the race. We had planned to walk the whole thing so being behind everyone was fine with us. We started out at a faster pace than we wanted, but around mile 2 we had settled in. Then the hill started. I knew with my asthma the elevation might give me a few problems, but I didn’t count on how bad it would be on the hill. The first 6 miles were all uphill. I wasn’t sure I would survive to make it to the top, but we pushed on slowly. Our pace suffered on the hill. We expected that, but the added effort really took a lot more out of us then we counted on. Around mile 5 we had a bit of a scare. Ruth is diabetic and her sugar dropped in the range of the 60’s. She ate two protein bars and a gel while walking and it wasn’t helping at all. We knew if she stopped moving she would fall down so we continued to push forward. We knew they had sports drinks at the aid station just past mile 6 and the sugar in the drink would help her. We made it to the aid station and stopped for about 3 minutes. I must say that every volunteer at every aid station was wonderful, but this group even offered to sacrifice their own personal cookie stash to help out. However the energy drink and another gel was all that was needed since the protein bars had finally kicked in. Ruth’s sugar went back up into acceptable ranges and we decided to push on. We were close to the top of the hill and we figured everything would be better after that. Mile 6-7 was our slowest mile due to the climb and the extended rest at the aid station. At mile 7 we were in the downhill stretch and while it was still tough going, it was better than the uphill struggle. At mile 9.5 we refilled our water at another aid station and once again decided to keep going. We were more than halfway finished and figured we could make it the remaining 3.6 miles or so. At mile 10 I just started repeating in my head over and over again “3 more miles to go” I kept that up until mile 11 and then I was repeating “2 more miles to go” I so badly wanted to stop. I was miserable. Every part of me hurt. I hated myself to deciding to try this. I was wondering how I had let my insane brain talk me into thinking this was a good idea. But I refused to quit. I was almost done and I had not suffered this much misery to DNF this close to the end. We could see the sun coming up over the mountains when we had about a mile to go. The sight of the finish mats was such a relief. We crossed the line together and finished with a time of 4:44:25. We were congratulated and handed our medals while another volunteer removed our timing chips. There were 291 entrants in the Half and we finished at 289 and 290. So we weren’t last, but even if we had been we would not have minded because our goal was just to finish and we did that. We had planned on finishing up at around 4 hours and 25 minutes so we were 19 minutes past our goal but considering the hill and the misery, we are totally fine with that.

After the finish we picked up our drop bag and went inside for breakfast. The food was good and helped to warm us up after almost 5 hours outside in the cold. We then boarded the bus for the 2.5 hour ride home. Once again the seats were cramped and uncomfortable, but at least this time the a/c was off and there was no Michael Jackson. It was nice to see the scenery that we had walked though all night long during the day. At night it was so desolate and dark, yet very pretty. During the day we could actually make out the shapes of the mountains and see the desert in all its glory. We also saw cows. I was glad we had not encountered one while on the road, but I knew they were out there somewhere. I tried to sleep a little on the bus, but it was too uncomfortable. We got back to the host hotel and then took a cab back to the Luxor. We fell into be almost as soon as we walked in the door. The time was about 830 am and we slept until a little after 4pm. Considering the fact that we had been awake for more than 20 hours before that, I was surprised we woke up as early as we did. We took it easy the rest of the day. Lunch was the buffet, and then dinner later at the Café followed by Starbucks in our room while watching TV.

On Monday we went back to the Italian place at the New York, New York for lunch and then slowly (very slowly) went to the Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay. It was packed with people so we didn’t really spend as much time as we might have in there, but we did take a few good pictures. After that we picked up our bags from the bell desk at the Luxor and caught a cab to the airport. Our flight home was uneventful. It was nice to be back home.

We have decided that we will continue to walk together and will enter events again in the future, but for shorter distances. Our goal was to have fun though out the process, and while I did have good experience overall, the 13.1 miles I walked was the most miserable 4 hours and 44 minutes of my life. We figure that going forward we will stick to 10k (6.2 miles) so that we have a better overall experience. I don’t regret it at all though and the best souvenir of the trip is the medal that I got when I crossed the finish line. I earned that medal. I worked hard for that medal. I am so proud of us both for crossing that finish line. We set a tough goal and reached it with a lot of hard work, determination, and pain.

Our walking splits.
Mile 1 – 18:39 faster then we wanted because we got swept up in the start.
Mile 2 – 19:58 almost right on the pace we were shooting for. We figured on a 20 minute mile pace.
Mile 3 – 20.59 the elevation is really messing with my breathing.
Mile 4 – 23:04 this included a minute or two at the aid station so still doing pretty good.
Mile 5 – 23:15 the uphill is getting steeper now.
Mile 6 – 22:24 all we want at this point is to get to the top of this hill. It is slowly killing us.
Mile 7 – 25:19 this included about 3 minutes at the aid station and also the very end of the hill.
Mile 8 – 20:35 the downhill has begun and we are struggling to get back on pace.
Mile 9 – 20:20 considering how bad we felt at this point I am surprised our pace was this fast.
Mile 10 – 21:43 there was a very short rest at the 9.5 mile aid station here. We are still moving along.
Mile 11 – 21:26 I want to stop so badly but I refuse. I hurt everywhere.
Mile 12 – 20:53 I still want to stop, but with only a mile to go I am going to continue on.
Mile 13 – 22:31 we are still moving, but more slowly now.
Mile 13.1 – 3.19 FINISHED! Overall it took longer than we wanted, but we were happy with the outcome all things considered.

It has been an interesting couple of weeks August 2, 2009

Posted by Staci in : Diet/Fitness, General Ramblings, Vacations, Work Stuff , add a comment   

It has been a couple of weeks since I posted so once again I am doing a rather long update.

I did take the test for the promotion. I wasn’t really nervous about taking it, but I wasn’t totally confident either. It was a 3 hour long test and it was a challenge, but I didn’t feel overwhelmed. I walked out of the test area feeling pretty good about it.

The week of July 19th I had off work for my annual summer trip to the resort with my nephew. It was a good trip. I however was driven crazy by a Spongebob marathon. I swear I hate that show. I spent a lot of time in the bedroom on my laptop or reading a book to avoid having to watch it. We did go swimming every day though and I took him indoor rock climbing. Over all it was a good trip with a great surprise during it. On Wednesday of that week my boss called me on my cell to confirm that he had my correct phone numbers. I didn’t think much of it at first. Then on Thursday morning I get a call from the hiring leader for the promotion I applied for. She offered me the job. I was so thrilled I was practically dancing around the hotel room. The promotion means a bit more money which is nice, but it also means I am now at a leadership level. I won’t be managing any people, but I will be working in the Financial Crimes Unit of the fraud department which has a lot more responsibly and involves alot more investigation and reporting.

I started my training for the FCRU department this past Monday. It was a bit overwhelming at first, but I am doing pretty good. I have had a lot of positive feedback in regards to my performance so far and based on some comments that the instructors made to my new manager I have been doing some impressive work considering I don’t yet have access to all the tools that will be available to me shortly. I really think I am going to like this job and that it will be something that keeps me interested for a long time.

Also on Monday I found out that one of my online “imaginary” running friends died of a heart attack. Joe “Voodoo” was only 39. I had never met him in person, but I had interacted with him online frequently. He was a really nice guy who always seemed to have a good word for everyone. He will be missed.

My half-marathon is next week. My training recently has been spotty due to my ankle injury. I don’t have the mile base I wanted for this. My longest walk so far has been 8 miles. I was susposed to do 10 yesterday, that that has been moved to later today. That will give me a little bit better of an idea as to how the actual half will go. I refuse to drop out or quit though. I am going to VTFU and get it done.

Well that is all I have for now.

More time has past… May 25, 2009

Posted by Staci in : Diet/Fitness, General Ramblings, Vacations, Work Stuff , add a comment   

and once again I collected a ton of things to write here, but never had the chance to post. So another bulk update.

House Stuff –
We did find a nice house when we went out. Actually a great house that just needs some cosmetic work. I made an offer, it was accepted, and we closed on the house on May 6th. The painting has begun and once that is finished new carpet will go down. The other minor things it needs are a light fixture in one of the bathrooms, ceiling fans though out to help with the electric bill, and new toilets. I have before pictures, and tomorrow if all goes well I will take some in progress pictures.

Diet stuff -
Well I have yet to shed any of the extra pounds I have been carrying, but it has been difficult to do. I have a girls weekend with my friends involving a few of my friends, a trip to Vegas, and this holiday weekend. I will be back on track on Tuesday with my diet though.

Fitness stuff –
I am still not running, but I am walking. My friend Ruth and I are still training for the Half Marathon in Rachel NV that will take place in August. We are going to walk it and we figure it will take a little over 4 hours to complete. We missed a few walks due to vacations and stuff, but are back on track now and have plans for a nice nine mile walk on Wednesday.

Work stuff -
They did another round of layoffs. Thankfully this time my department was not impacted but the stress level is still really high. With the expansion into India our staff has been reduced to less then half of what it was 2 years ago. So far my job is still save, and my annual performance review was great so I am trying to stay positive.

Girls weekend -
Was a blast as usual. Lots of fun times talking, laughing, and of course drinking.

Vegas trip –
Very fun. My sister and I went for 4 days to play in a Bingo event. We have not gone on a vacation that was just the two of us before so it was a new experience. We didn’t win any money, but we had a lot of fun and are already looking forward to doing it again next May.

Memorial Day weekend –
Well I am home alone all weekend. My mother took my nephew to the resort for the weekend, so it is just me and Sonic. It is nice having the house to myself and being able to watch whatever I want on tv. I have a bottle of wine that I am debating opening so I can toast to the fallen soldiers who gave their lives to defend my freedom.

Shopping –
I haven’t done much of it because everything makes me look fat. However a friend of mine has an online shop where she sells hand-crafted jewelry. The website is http://moonsea.etsy.com She has some very nice stuff.

Well that is all I have for the moment.

Vacation December 10, 2008

Posted by Staci in : General Ramblings, Vacations , add a comment   

So I am on a mini-vacation. I am staying at the resort, doing my holiday shopping, and just spending time by myself. Most of my shopping is done. I just have a couple more things to pick up and then I can relax until Christmas.

I went out Geocaching today after I did some shopping. I went out for 2 caches and didn’t find either one. On the upside, I spent a lot of time outdoors in beautiful weather and did a lot of walking. I have a longer hiking/caching trip planned for later this week since the weather is so great right now.

Last time I stayed here on vacation the internet connection was horrible. This time it is much better so I plan to work on a couple of my web pages and maybe set up a message board forum and chat room for my nephew and his friends to play on. One I can monitor and control who has access to make sure the kids don’t end up releasing info to strangers. I have a lot of time on my hands late at night while the rest of the world sleeps so this is a project that will keep me busy while still letting me feel productive.

Well that is all I have for the moment. I will post again later this week I think.

Well I am home December 11, 2006

Posted by Staci in : General Ramblings, Vacations , add a comment   
Mood : lethargic
Tv : The Replacements

Well I am back from my shopping week at the resort.  It was a nice relaxing weekend.  I got a lot of shopping accomplished for people.  I still little bit left to do, but not very much. Most of what I need now is small stuff and stuff I ordered online that I am waiting for.  I don’t work until late on Monday because I still had a few hours of vacation time left.  So I am sitting at home playing online and trying to get rid of the headache I have. 

10 days with out work December 1, 2006

Posted by Staci in : General Ramblings, It's in the Cards, Vacations , add a comment   
Mood : content
Tv : Law and Order SVU

Well today is the first day of my vacation.  I am not really going any where, but I am staying at a hotel in Scottsdale to get my Christmas shopping done, and relax before the holiday rush.  It is a really nice resort, and I am throwing a girls weekend here Sat night.  It should be a blast.  I have already premade the long island ice teas. 

 I am playing in the TOC for event poker tomorrow. After that the girls weekend starts.  It should be a nice 10 day vacation.  I am giong to do my shopping during the begining of the week and spend the rest of the time relaxing and just hanging out.  I have my video games, my laptop, my crochet project, and tons of books to read.  It should be wonderful.

Well it is Sunday October 29, 2006

Posted by Staci in : General Ramblings, It's in the Cards, Vacations , add a comment   
Mood : calm
Tv : House

Another weekend is almost over.  I have plans to play poker tonight, but other then that nothing is set. 

I am going to put some new software in my phone.  In theory it will give me back the threaded sms chat feature that the new 700w took away.  It is still in beta so I am going to be testing it out to see how well it works.  I am a little nervous about it because I have not edited code for computer software in ages.  I have to make some changes to my registry after I install it so I am major backing every thing up first before I put it in.  I am having visions of turning my $700 phone into a paperweight.  Lets hope that does not happen. 

 I had plans to go to Vegas, those have been canceled.  I then had plans to go to Laughlin and now those have been canceled.  I guess I am destined to spend the rest of 2006 in Arizona with out any more escapes to win tons of money at a casino.  *grin* 

I am thinking about asking for a dart board for Christmas.  I was going to ask for the new Nintendo Wii, but considering I have only played the xbox about 12 times since last Christmas, it does not seem like it is worth my family spending the money.  I want it, but I just never really have time to play anymore.  The dart board could be used by everyone, and I really need the practice because I still suck. 

Vacation is over and some other stuff. October 9, 2006

Posted by Staci in : General Ramblings, It's in the Cards, Vacations, Work Stuff , add a comment   
Mood : optimistic

So my vacation is over and I am back at work today.  All in all it was a pretty fun week in Disneyland.  I have several new pins for my wall and some new shirts I bought as well.  I thought about getting some jewerly but talked myself out of it.  I will have pictures from the trip up within the week.  The whole trip was fun, but there were a few minor bumps and stresses.  That is the norm though. 

I am back at work on my reduced shift.  It was nice being able to get up a bit later and to take my time this morning.  Since I gained weight on my trip, I will be using my treadmill every morning before work from here on out.  My dr recommended the exercise anyway as a stress releiver so it will serve for 2 things.  I really did not gain alot, just 5lbs, but I want to loose those 5lbs.  The exercise should help with that. 

Since my shift starts at my old break time, I had to move my starbucks run back as well.  So I have afternoon coffee instead of morning coffee.  I am trying to be positive at work today.  I am really hoping this change helps with my stress and my work enviroment and stats improve.

There is poker tonight at enoch’s but I am not sure I am going to make it.  I am thinking about it and I was also considering playing darts after the poker game, but I forgot my darts at home. 

Its our last day October 7, 2006

Posted by Staci in : Vacations , add a comment   
Mood : chipper
Music : disney of course.

It is our last day in Disneyland.  We are all getting ready to head over to the park.  Yesterday was eventful.  4 adults with 2 kids.  We needed more adults.  But overall it was pretty fun.  I think today I am going to split up from the group to finish up my shopping.  I have a few people left to buy for and there are a few things I want to pick up for myself. 

So our 2nd day October 3, 2006

Posted by Staci in : Vacations , add a comment   
Mood : tired

Our 2nd day at the park is over.  We spent our 1st day in the orginal Disneyland park.  We manged to ride several rides and had a blast.  Space Mountain has been reopened, and the changes are nice.  Nothing extreme, but it now is all updated an looks more modern.  We rode that, Indiana Jones, Jungle Cruise, Haunted Mansion, Thunder Mountain Railroad, and of course my favorite ride, Pirates.  We did a bit of shopping, and also planned out things to buy closer to the end of our trip. 

Today we only rode Soaring of California and the Zeplin ride, but the day was spend mostly shopping and sightseeing at the park.  There really is not as much to do on the California side of the park, at least not with Cameron along.  Later this week when Chuck and Chase get here, Cindi and Chuck plan to ride the big rollercoaster and the Tower of Terror.  Cindi does not want to ride either of them alone, and I refuse to ride them.  The rollercoster goes upside down and the Tower drops you 13 stories.  My fear of heights keeps me off of them.

I think I am about done shopping for the week.  I have a couple more things I want to buy, mostly gifts for coworkers and a shirt for myself but that will be the end of my shopping.  I will be broke after that.

Tomarrow night we are going to eat at the Blue Bayou resturant.  That is the one that is inside the Pirates ride.  We have eaten there before and it is great food.  We have reservations set already.  We are all looking forward to it.  We have planned our day around eating dinner at that resturant.Â