Many moons ago when I was just getting back into my running shoes after having Cullen, I set goals and signed up for a bunch of races. The furthest out on my schedule was the Rock N Roll Seattle Half Marathon. I signed up for it back in January, and assumed that with six months to get back into running shape, I’d be more than ready to tackle 13.1 miles.
As it turns out, getting back into distance running shape while raising an infant is much harder than I anticipated. And so when Sunday morning rolled around, I was feeling more nervous than confident.
The forecast called for pouring rain, so I tried to prepare for the worst. Casey has been in Hong Kong all week, and couldn’t get back in time for the race. When my alarm went off at 4:30am Sunday morning, it felt really strange to be getting ready all by myself. At 5am I woke up Cullen so that I could feed him before I left. My sister came down and took over babysitting duty, while I got ready to head toward downtown. Finally, at 5:30am, I grabbed a PB&J sandwich, had Sarah snap a picture of me looking nervous, and I headed out into the rain.
The rain poured down the whole time I was driving in, but as I got closer and closer I could tell it was lightening up. There were 50,000 runners all converging on downtown, so I made sure to leave with plenty of time to park and get to the starting line.
By 6:30 the rain had stopped, and I had made it into my corral. I had gone back and forth all morning trying to decide if I should wear my jacket or not. Of course as soon as I got there I regretted having it. Rookie mistake.
Mistake number two came when I turned on my watch. For whatever reason, I decided to take Casey’s new Nike Sport watch instead of my Garmin. I had gone through the effort of charging it the night before, but when I turned it on minutes before the race, the watch flashed “memory full.” You have got to be kidding me.
I pushed every sequence of buttons I could imagine, but it quickly became clear that the watch would not work until it was cleared through a computer. And so at that moment, my race strategy changed.
It’s funny how different running and racing are now that I’m a mom. I used to be highly organized with lists of things I needed, everything prepped days in advance, race strategies outlined in my head, training schedules meticulously followed and taped to the wall. Now? I often run with just a few minutes notice – whenever I get the chance and it works with Cullen and Casey’s schedules. I’m hardly ever prepared, I don’t have an iPod, and I haven’t looked at a training schedule in eight months.
My running has changed, just as life in general has changed. Things aren’t predictable anymore. I used to be a pretty obnoxious control freak, and while I certainly still have my moments, being a mom has forced me to mellow out significantly, and I’ve learned to quickly accept that things rarely go according to plan.
So I turned my watch off and decided to just run based on how I felt. My body knows a lot more about me than my Garmin anyway. The gun went off and I waited for he 15 corrals in front of me to start.
Finally, it was my turn. I wanted this race to be different than Indianapolis – no being negative or getting down on myself when things got tough. I started running and tried to just settle into a groove.
Within a half mile, I spotted my friend Carly on the sidelines. I ran over to her and tossed her my jacket and watch – it was a HUGE relief to not have those things weighing me down for 13 miles.
I don’t have any mile splits or photos to share – it was just me and my thoughts out there trucking along. I knew I had gone into the race significantly under-trained, so I didn’t have big expectations. When I turned the corner at mile five and saw a GIGANTIC hill in front of me, I decided right then that I was going to walk the hills. I knew my legs were going to be hurting enough from the mileage, and so I saw no point in burning them out on hills.
I saw my friend Julianna’s parents and I gave them high fives. There was a beautiful portion of the course that weaved along the waterfront, and I tried to just focus on my surroundings and all the other runners, and to not think about how much I wanted to stop.
With each giant hill and each water stop, I gave myself a walking break. I had watched the course preview video, and I knew the hills were going to be bad. Even so, I was stunned at how brutal they were – definitely the hilliest course I’ve run to date.
The middle of the race was sort of a blur. I ran, I walked, I drank, I listed to Pandora on my phone. I thought about Cullen and wondered if he’d drank his bottle and napped for Sarah. I thought about Casey flying 15 hours home, and how I couldn’t wait to wrap my arms around him. I thought about how far I’ve come in eight life changing months.
Miles ten and eleven felt like they were entirely uphill, and I transitioned to more of a run/walk. When I passed the 11 mile marker, I looked at the clock. I had guessed that it took me about 20 minutes to cross the starting line, and I tried to estimate my current pace based on the mile clock. I thought if I ran two more 10:00 minute miles I could maybe finished in 2:15.
And then I saw the next huge hill. I dug deep and forced myself to keep running, and decided I was going to do my best to finish under 2:20 after one more walk break. The finish line felt like it would never come.
Finally I was back in downtown, cruising down a wonderful final downhill stretch, and digging for a push from the crowds and energy. It took everything I had to keep on running. I crossed the finish line and saw the clock tick 2:38, but since I started so late I had no idea what that meant for my finishing time.
I texted Casey (who had just landed) and Sarah, and let them know I had finished and was still alive. I told them I guessed I had finished around 2:22 or 2:23. Sarah responded that Cullen drank his whole bottle and was napping like a champ. And then Casey texted back that I had finished in 2:19. I was proud.
It felt really surreal and strange to wander through tens of thousands of people, knowing I was on my own out there. I sat on the steps for a little bit resting and recovering, before slowly making the very long 2 mile trek back to my car. I headed home to meet my cheering squad.
I mentioned earlier that I think I want to focus on shorter distances and speed for a while, and take a little break from distance running. Being out there on Sunday morning confirmed that for me. This is sort of an awkward thing to write about, but I think it’s worth addressing since there are likely other women going through something similar.
I still have a surprising amount of postpartum pelvic pain. Every time I run, and much more significantly after I run, I feel intense throbbing and aching in my pelvic floor. Four hours of pushing during childbirth did me no favors, and I honestly feel like my body is still going through the healing process. I bring this up only because it’s something I didn’t anticipate, and it’s just another example of some of the surprises and challenges that come with motherhood.
I walked in my front door feeling very very sore, but also really proud. I was proud of myself for getting out there and doing the race all by myself, despite my lack of confidence. I was proud of Sarah for being an awesome babysitter and taking great care of Cullen. I was proud of Cullen for being a big boy and learning that he and mom can spend some time apart sometimes.
I think I’ve come a long way in 8 months. I’ve done two half marathons and a handful of shorter races. I’m not fast. I’m not very consistent with my training. I’m not doing anything extraordinary.
But I’m doing it. And for me, it’s significant. I have learned to relax. I’ve let go of a lot of control. And I know now to appreciate each run for what it is – watch or no watch, rain or shine. It feels great to be an active, running mama. I’m excited to see how my running continues to change and develop as parenthood progresses and new challenges arise.
Another race in the books – eleven minutes faster than my last one. I’ll take it.
140 Comments so far
Leave a comment
Congratulations on a GREAT race, Emily! You should be really proud!
And thanks for sharing about your pains. As a runner who hasn’t had kids yet, I want to know the truth about how I’ll feel when I’m pregnant, and after. I like to hear it rather than go through it wondering if anybody else felt the same.
Hope you have a relaxing week; you deserve it!
[Reply]
Congratulations, Emily. As an overweight mom to a 9 year old, who sometimes looks at herself and wonders how I ever got this way, that you’re doing so much in just Cullen’s first year is inspiring. Being able to dig deep and find that strength in yourself is something to be very proud of. I don’t even truly know you, but am proud of you!
[Reply]
Emily Malone Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 9:21 am
Thanks so much Susan!
[Reply]
Woohoo! I was out there too – SO relieved that it stopped raining just in time! (Did you see how hard it poured all afternoon? I felt bad for any full marathoners still out there!)
I hear you about changing priorities – I used to love the half marathon distance but I was pretty miserable miles 4-13 yesterday. I’m busy with school and just more interested in yoga and group classes and other forms of exercise right now. It all counts, right?
[Reply]
Emily Malone Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 9:21 am
The rain afterward was insaaaaane! So glad I was done by then! Congrats to you too. :)
[Reply]
Reading about how you and Casey manage to push through these tough races is very inspiring! My wife and I are training for a 5K right now and seeing all of the various stories posted by bloggers about their running experiences is inspiring. Neither one of us has ever run anything of note before, and the experience is pretty daunting but exciting at the same time!
[Reply]
Go super woman! I am so impressed at your consistency with running – you are setting a super mommy example :)
[Reply]
YAYYYYY! I am so proud of you! You’re such an inspiration to me running and healthy eating wise! :)
Glad you’re doing well, and accomplishing your goals!
[Reply]
Great Job Emily!! I am so glad you had an awesome race :)
[Reply]
You seriously have done a great job getting back into running! I love the idea of taking it easier on yourself – I find it so easy to get caught up in the self-imposed pressure to always do better than before, that sometimes I forget to be glad for what I AM doing (hey, I could be on the couch, right?)…Thanks for the reminder.
Can I ask how you carry your phone with you at races? I hate to have such a big (and fragile) thing to carry, so I always leave it in the car. Occasionally I’ve used a SPI belt, but it is kind of annoying to run long-distances with. It would really be able to have my phone post race!
[Reply]
Emily Malone Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 9:20 am
I wear running pants with a little pocket at the waist, and I stuff it into that. Bulky, but it works!
[Reply]
I’m so proud of you! I kept thinking of you and all of the other runners yesterday and looking to the sky. The forecast wasn’t as bad as they were predicting! Although, I had to smile when I got back from my first long run in a while and not even 10 minutes later it was downpour for the afternoon. Oh Seattle….
Good luck with finding the right distance for you! I think you did a really great job listening to your body and accepting your new or changing limits. It’s a great example for everyone out there working on something they may or may not have been able to do before!
[Reply]
I can definitely relate to what your talking about with the aching pelvis. It’ll take time. My girlfriends who didn’t have such hard labors didn’t relate, but it’s true, birth can be hard on the body. You’re doing a great job of listening to yours.
Nice work today!
[Reply]
Emily! You are amazing! Congrats to this race! You are so strong! Thanks for sharing you thoughts on your future running goals. Good luck!
[Reply]
Great job! Congrats! I’m a mama of 2 and can relate to your pains. Birth definitely changed my body and the healing process takes its time. Thanks for sharing your experience.
[Reply]
I have the same question about your phone- I strap mine to my arm, but it chafes the tender skin on my inner arm. I think I wear my earbuds all wrong too- what’s the most comfortable way to wear those? Final running question. I am training for my first ever marathon. I am up to 14 miles in my training. I find it very hard to carve out consistent time because I am a mom of 3 young kids with a husband who travels all the time for work and works nights and weekends. When I can grab a long run I am so grateful for it, I feel great and clear my head and work off all the stress and fatigue. Then about 2 hours later, and it lasts for about 48 hours, I am completely brain dead. I feel so exhausted body and soul that I can barely function. I feel like I can’t complete sentences and can’t think straight. Is this normal? Did you ever feel this after long runs when training for marathons? I am trying to make sure I drink and eat enough after long runs, but I am a little worried about this level of fatigue when I need to be “on” for my kids. I am now wondering if, given this feeling, I should be entertaining the notion of a marathon in October. Everyone I ask is very encouraging that I can do it, and while that is nice to hear, I need someone to be realistic and not tell me what they think I want to hear! Finding 2.5 hours to do a long run is hard enough, recovering for 48 hours from it where I can’t function as well as I need to for my busy life is really a challenge!
You should feel really proud of what you have accomplished in 8 months postpartum. You are amazing!
[Reply]
Emily Malone Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 9:19 am
I have LuLuLemon running pants that have a little pocket at the waist. I just put my phone in there. It’s bulky, but I feel like I need to have it with me in case there is an emergency and someone needs to get ahold of me. No idea about the exhaustion – maybe you need more calories? Marathon training can take a huge toll on the body.
[Reply]
Joanna Reply:
June 26th, 2012 at 5:05 am
I started having that during my marathon training as well. Right at my first 14 miler. I would be ruined for the day. For me, I learned I wasn’t eating enough DURING my run. After didn’t seem to change it, but when I ate more during I actually felt good all day, even on my 18-20 milers! Much bett than I had at 14. I hope that helps you!
Also, Emily. It’s actually my first time commenting. Long time reader though. I wanted to say congratulations. You are doing amazing. Thanks for sharing the good and the difficult. I am pregnant with my first (which may explain why I as totally teary ready this post). I have been a competitive runner for years. At 5 months, it is getting really hard to run and I’ve started walking too. All this is fine, but it makes me wonder how my body will respond after I give birth, about making time to run again, how my priorities will shift. I know I will love being a mom, but I still wonder about those things. So thanks for sharing and keep up your good work (being a mom, blogger, wife, and runner!)
[Reply]
Way to go Emily! You rocked that half marathon girl.
I just got around to reading the race recap from Casey’s marathon on Vancouver and have to tell you it was so cool seeing those pictures of downtown on here. You were like 10 minutes from my house. I walk to downtown all the time :)
and also, I had my little guy 4 weeks ago and am so looking forward to running again soon, so thanks for sharing about your pelvic pain. I’m sure there will be surprises I’ll have to adjust to as I go along as well.
[Reply]
Emily Malone Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 9:18 am
That was such a cute area! Congrats on your little one. :)
[Reply]
You are a superstar! Seriously there are not many mums out there that would be back to running such long distances after such a short time, especially when you have a husband who travels. If I complete 1 half marathon in my lifetime I will feel like I’ve conquered the world so you really are an inspiration.
[Reply]
Hi!
I’m happy you mentioned the pelvic pain. I’m not a trained runner like you–at my best I was able to run 3 miles without walking, but in the past 2 years, I have to stop after 15 minutes because of the terrible throbbing pain in my lower abdomen. Nor have I had a baby! I am 29, eat well (mostly vegan), exercise regularly (hiking, biking, the elliptical at the Y), am a healthy weight, no chronic health conditions, etc. It makes no sense! I’m not sure if the pain we feel comes from the same or a similar cause, since mine cannot be due to labor, but I wanted to post a comment just to let you know that what you describe resonates with me. I wish I could know what it is, so that I could run. Thank you.
[Reply]
Emily Malone Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 9:17 am
That sounds horrible! Sorry you’re going through something similar.
[Reply]
Sarah Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 4:38 pm
Weird, I’ve never had a baby but when I push my self to run really fast I also get a pain in my pelvic region. I think it maybe to do with pushing your body to far? not sure
[Reply]
Kamila Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 11:45 pm
Yes, that’s probably the primary cause. I found a forum with a ton of people who wrote in with similar experiences, and the suggestions that rang true to me were: too much, too fast; poor circulation; tight psoas muscle; and the high impact of running. http://www.medhelp.org/posts/Exercise–Fitness/Low-abdominal-pain-when-running/show/223041
[Reply]
Jessica Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 6:35 pm
Kamila, have you ever been evaluated for endometriosis? There are various levels and with mine early on in running I suffered from intense lower abdomen pain.
[Reply]
Kamila Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 11:48 pm
It didn’t come up at my last gyno visit, but I didn’t ask about pain when running — I’ll make it a point to bring it up at my next visit.
[Reply]
I love reading your race recap entires, because I’m just starting out with running and getting more serious about racing. It’s nice to know that races can be hit or miss, and that I’m not some crazy freak or doomed to be a couch potato for the rest of my life if I have a bad race. Your blog continues to inspire me!
P.S. I cooked the Zucchini Pasta with Tomato Mushroom Sauce recipe the other night…it is FABULOUS! Love it!
[Reply]
What a great race recap! I felt like I was there caught up in the excitement :)
I’m glad you shared some of the postpartum pain you experienced … I’m toying with the idea of having kids soon and I honestly have no idea what to expect. I kept hearing people having issues getting back in shape and that is one thing I’d like to be prepared for (what my ‘new’ body will be like). Even with the pain – you killed it!
[Reply]
Great job Emily!!
[Reply]
WOW! I still cannot believe you’ve run half marathons after having a baby- SO impressive! And I definitely think you are FAST, especially considering all your body has just gone through!
[Reply]
I know what you mean. My boy is just under 8 months, and there are still exercises I can’t really do because I feel like things are pulling down there. (I pushed for four hours, too, so maybe that has something to do with it?)
[Reply]
Emily Malone Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 9:15 am
YES. Exactly. I feel like my tears are going to rip back open when I’m running. Like an intense throbbing!
[Reply]
Erica Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 6:19 pm
I am 3 months postpartum and having pretty much the exact same issue. i brought it up with my midwife and she attributed it to scar tissue pain from the tearing that I had during childbirth (I had a second degree tear, don’t know how many stitches). She referred me to a specialist that I am seeing in two weeks. If you want, I can email you some information that I get from this meeting. My midwife did inform me that this is not normal and should be addressed.
I am on my feet a lot at work and I have to take 600 mg of ibuprofen before work to make it through the day sometimes. And this may be TMI, but mommy-daddy time is pretty much off the table still.
[Reply]
Emily Malone Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 6:49 pm
Erica, I would love that. And yes, other activities are equally uncomfortable. It sucks!
[Reply]
Way to go! Your family must be so proud of you, as well :) Cullen is lucky to have parents who provide such good examples for him.
[Reply]
Congratulations Emily!
[Reply]
Way to go! You look great! I teared up reading your post..so emotional. Thanks for sharing the ups and downs :)
[Reply]
Great job Emily! You should be so proud of yourself!
[Reply]
Congrats on a your race and showing us all that it doesn’t matter how you complete the race (run or run/walk) as long as you finish. Pelvic pain is a B. Last November I was finally able to get back into running and doing certain exercises (jumping on the trampoline w/o peeing myself) a whole 2.5 years after my daughter was born – the pelvic pain was so bad – especially when I had my period. Thank goodness with time and lower impact exercise I am finally able to do more. So the pain does stop it just depends on your body and the level of impact.
[Reply]
Emily Malone Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 9:15 am
Glad to hear it stops eventually!
[Reply]
You SHOULD be really proud of yourself! It is hard to train with a baby. However, I think it’s also good to have that alone time when you are running and by yourself. I have done races by myself because it was too early / too far to drag the kids too. It is weird not having people at the finish or to ride home with. I don’t like it. I love reading your posts, and congrats on your race.
[Reply]
Congrats!!
[Reply]
Way to go on the race! I was signed up for a 10-miler when my son was 11 months…and didn’t pull it off. As for the pelvic pain: GO SEE A CHIROPRACTOR. I’m not sure it’s exactly the same as mine, but I had intense pain in my hips until I got readjusted, and it did WONDERS for me. Good luck!
[Reply]
Erika Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 6:34 am
Hi Emily,
I’ve been reading your blog for a long time now and have never commented, but I wanted to offer another suggestion about your pelvic floor pain. I’m about to have a baby any day now(!), and my pre-natal yoga instructor mentioned that there are physical therapists who work specifically with women who have pelvic floor damage/pain. Might be something to look into, especially if it can speed your recovery!
[Reply]
Lauren Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 8:44 am
Also, post-partum pilates might help! There are pilates instructors specially trained to help with pelvic floor issues after a mom gives birth!
[Reply]
Emily Malone Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 9:13 am
I may look into that if it continues!
[Reply]
Jaime Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 7:08 pm
I am in physical therapy school right now, and when I saw what you wrote about pelvic pain I HAD to comment (um…I’m a dork). I would really recommend seeing a physical therapist that specializes in Women’s Health if it continues to bother you; they can help you and every PT that specializes in that area is awesome. You can go to this site to find one in your area- http://www.apta.org/apta/findapt/index.aspx?navID=10737422525. From what I have learned in school, I would really recommend it- it can’t hurt and could really help you with running, future pregnancies, etc! Your body deserves it!
[Reply]
Emily Malone Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 9:14 am
I dont think it’s a chiropractic issue. It’s more of an issue of where my stitches/tears are. It’s a deep throbbing in my crotch, haha. :)
[Reply]
Congrats! You are such an inspiration. I as well often need to be reminded that things don’t always go exactly as I planned but that embracing the changes in our lives and being thankful for what we have is the most important thing we can do. Great job, lady!
[Reply]
Great job Emily!
[Reply]
I loved this recap. I think you should be incredibly proud of your time, let alone with pelvic pain and super hills!
[Reply]
Congratulations! Awesome job :)
[Reply]
Good Job Emily :) I’m so glad to hear it went well!
[Reply]
Congratulations!! You’re an inspiration.
[Reply]
You are awesome! Thank you for always keeping it real.
[Reply]
So proud of you, Emily!
[Reply]
Congratulations Emily! You did amazing!!
[Reply]
Emily, congrats!! Finding time to run and committing to two halfs (and following through) are huge accomplishments when caring for an infant. I’ve read your blog for about a year now, as my son Griffin is about two months older than Cullen. I had run several halfs and a full before having Griffin. Since becoming a mom, I have done one half and am not nearly as “fast” as I used to be. Similar to your pelvic pain, I grapple with stress incontinence every time I run more than a few miles or push a 8:30 pace. But just getting my exhausted rear end out the door for a couple miles with the stroller is an accomplishment these days!
[Reply]
Great race! Maybe you didn’t feel like it when you were running, but when I read your recap I just got this feeling of zen and of you being happy with where you are, despite certain struggles. I hope that’s how you’re feeling!
[Reply]
Awesome! You know, I have done four half marathons at this point, and I have had only one encounter with a friend spectating, at the Pittsburgh half last May. Kevin has not been able to come to any of them. I love the solitude and contemplation opportunities of long runs or races done alone. I know that isn’t what you’re used to, and I’m so glad you let yourself enjoy it. And that finish time – awesome! Hopefully Kevin can come to my next one in September…
[Reply]
What a great recap, you should be very proud, and you are fast. Great pics of you, and that medal is awesome!
Awesome job!!!!
[Reply]
i’m so proud of you emily – not only for running it and rocking it but doing it solo!
love you!
[Reply]
with every post you write, i continue to think you are more and more fabulous. this spring i experienced that feeling of lining up for a race without your support squad around to cheer you on and i know it is mentally tough. i think your approach of things to think about during the race (and walking hills! i did that in my last race, too) was awesome. keep on running.
[Reply]
Emily Malone Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 9:11 am
oh thank you so much!
[Reply]
I so appreciate you mentioning the pelvic floor pain you are occasionally still deal with. I’m a week and half from my due date and this is the kind of information that is so helpful but no one really talks about! Though I’ve never been a half marathoner (I’m a 5k girl all the way ;) it is still inspiring to see new moms like yourself out there challenging yourself. I really enjoy your writing style and your willingness to share both the joys and hardships of new parenthood- thank you! Congratulations on a race you should be proud of! :)
[Reply]
Emily Malone Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 9:10 am
It definitely doesn’t happen to everyone, so don’t be too scared. Best of luck to you!
[Reply]
Emily, you’re one rockstar mama, don’t forget it! I am almost 6 months post-partum and with my first half on the books for November, am just trying to find consistency in my runs. But being a mama, what does that mean? You’re juggling every single day and some days those training runs are literally the last thing on your mind and get pushed to the backburner. It is a miracle for me some days to get out for 3 miles all the while pushing that lovely BOB (we currently have a love hate relationship as do you and other moms I am sure of it!) Similar to your pelvic pain, I like Taylor above struggle with stress incontinence as well and let me just tell you it’s not fun feeling the need to use the bathroom every mile out there and having no control over it! Good for your for listening to your body, the mental aspect of running like you mentioned has changed as well and it’s ok. Just showing your strength and dedication to staying healthy for yourself and little man are something you should be proud of. I know it empowers me just to think that i’m out there being strong for my daughter! Keep it up!
[Reply]
Emily Malone Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 9:09 am
Ugh that sounds frustrating. I haven’t dealt with the incontinence issues, but when I run I seriously feel like my tears are going to rip back open. It’s intense!
[Reply]
Good morning. Thank you so much as always for the honesty in your experiences. The reality is that the body changes for a lot of us (for varied reason) but we don’t necessarily talk about it. It is always helpful to hear about someone’s experience and it sounds like you even got some helpful responds from other women.
Take care
[Reply]
Emily Malone Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 9:08 am
So true! That’s why I figured I’d mention it. I wish I’d heard someone else tell me they still had pain at eight months.
[Reply]
Thank you so much for mentioning that time isn’t the only thing that makes running after a baby difficult! I had my daughter in January and have been dealing with incontinence issues ever since. I’ve also ended up with severe tendonitis in my knee because my ligaments are very loose. I didn’t realize that the hormones in our body during pregnancy that loosen the ligaments stay high while nursing. I find it so frustrating to read all of these blogs that just make it sound like I need to try harder to find the time to run. It’s not that simple. So thank you! And congrats on a great race! Cullen is a lucky little man!
[Reply]
Emily Malone Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 9:07 am
I haven’t dealt with any of the incontinence issues, but the pelvic floor pain is pretty tough. It’s like a deep throbbing! This mom stuff is so complicated. :)
[Reply]
Malinda Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 9:14 am
Ha! I didn’t mean to suggest that you’re dealing with incontinence! :) Only that healing after birth takes so much more time than I thought it would (six months and counting …)! Reading your story has helped me recognize that. I’m trying to be more patient with myself and enjoy the extra time not always running is giving me with Mila and my husband. I’m sure your pelvic pain will pass with time. I understand how frustrating it is to not be able to run like you want!
[Reply]
Great work Emily!! You should really be proud of yourself! Even for just getting up and out of the house on a rainy morning with no one there for extra support.
As an emotional pregnant woman, a ‘used-to-be’ runner, I’m sitting here tearing up and finding myself…a complete stranger…really, really proud of you!! :)
[Reply]
Emily Malone Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 9:07 am
Congrats on your pregnancy!
[Reply]
Congrats and well done! You’re setting a very inspiring example, thanks.
[Reply]
Great job, Emily! Such an inspiring race recap! That really, really sucks that you’re still having pelvic pain issues. I hope you are fully healed soon. <3
[Reply]
Emily Malone Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 9:06 am
I am so amazed to hear you other moms who were 100% so quickly. I still feel like my tears are going to rip open!
[Reply]
Congratulations. Even at what you might consider your “worst” you are still an inspiration for me. I have just started jogging (not even running) since my son was born eight months ago. To this day I have never run more than a half mile at a time. I jog for fitness and I don’t have a desire to run a marathon, but reading your recaps makes me so proud of what the body can do (especially a mom’s). I hope someday to be a quarter of the runner you are.
[Reply]
You are so inspiring! I love your attitude.
[Reply]
Way to go, Emily! Amazing how listening to your body gives you exactly what you need … and a record time! Thank you for sharing your journey with all of us. It helps, even non-runners … it just helps :)
[Reply]
Congrats Emily! Completing a 1/2 marathon – no matter what your time is – is a huge accomplishment!
[Reply]
Congratulations! I can only imagine how hard that must be after only 8 months. Way to go :)
[Reply]
I absolutely love your writing. You have such great insight and so many women can relate to you. Keep up the great work!!! Congrats on the half!
[Reply]
Emily Malone Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 9:06 am
Thanks Emily!
[Reply]
I’m curious. I have an ipod that I like to listen to when on my treadmill. However, if I hook the thing on my body when running, I find it skips songs and doesn’t play right. Almost like the old hand CD players that first came out for running. Do you have this problem when running? Thanks
[Reply]
Emily Malone Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 9:05 am
I dont have an iPod – I just listen to Pandora on my phone. Haven’t had any trouble!
[Reply]
Emily! I am so proud of you!! You have given me so much inspiration to get back out there. Way to go!!
[Reply]
So proud of you Erin for being an awesome mom how is also dedicated to maintaining physical fitness! You’ve had to readjust your goals and focus, but the fact that you keep keeping on is very inspiring! Awesome!
[Reply]
Way to go!! That’s a fantastic time!
[Reply]
Way to go, Emily! I don’t ‘know’ you, but I’m definitely proud of you. You set a great example for other women (and for Cullen!) as a healthy, active mom. Thank you for being you!
Oh, and awesome hat. Go Reds! :)
[Reply]
Congrats Mama! You are a wonderful inspiration to many people. Keep up the positive work!
[Reply]
great job, Emily!
I’ve been following your blog for long time now and i’m not sure if i’ve ever posted anything? I think I found you through JL. I have a quick question- you talk about Field Roast dogs quite a bit. We eat them, too and love them. I’ve had the Chipotle and the Italian Sausage. Which flavor(s) do your market vendors/ballpark vendors use? I usually only cook with them (added to pastas, sauces, etc…) and rarely put them in buns to eat like a hotdog. Was curious to know your preference!
[Reply]
Emily Malone Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 3:23 pm
Favorite is Apple Sage! Definitely the best. Chipotle is VERY spicy!
[Reply]
Awesome job Emily! You’re a rock star :)
[Reply]
You look ridiculously awesome for having a baby eight months ago (technically, you look ridiculously awesome period). You are an inspiration!
[Reply]
Emily, what a huge accomplishment over the past couple months. You should feel so proud of how well you’ve done in such a short amount of time. All while managing to care for your family and raise a beautiful little boy.
[Reply]
I ran RnR also. I really didn’t enjoy the course. Funny that it was raining for you in the morning… we left the hotel at 5:30 and headed to Seattle Center and didn’t feel a single rain drop all day.
[Reply]
Emily Malone Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 3:22 pm
Really? Man, it was pouring in Kirkland! So glad it stopped by the time I got downtown. I loved the park of the course around Seward Park and Lake Washington Blvd, but I was disappointed that there were so few spectators for such a big race! Cheerleading squads were good.
[Reply]
The fact that you keep running and getting out there is extraordinary! Wouldn’t it be so much easier to not run? But you do it anyway. Way to go, Girl!*
[Reply]
Sounds like a great race, Emily. You are truly a super mom! Wanted to let you know that I am a student of physical therapy, and it is not uncommon for new (and repeat) moms to seek a physical therapist’s help for pelvic floor pain and discomfort after giving birth. There are a few things a PT who specializes in women’s health can do to help re-train your muscles, decrease pain and get you back to feeling your best! It might be something to look in to so that you can run at ease in the more near future!
[Reply]
Kris Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 1:34 pm
2nd. PT can be extremely helpful for pelvic floor pain. Don’t be hesitant to look into this.
[Reply]
Emily Malone Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 3:20 pm
Okay I think I might actually look into this. Thanks for the encouragement, guys!
[Reply]
Hannah Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 4:51 pm
I hope you do so that you can feel better soon! That pain sounds miserable.. hang in there!
[Reply]
Lauren Zietsman Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 6:47 pm
Just gotta revisit this–I am a physical therapist and your pelvic floor is just layers and layers of muscle! A PT can help you learn how to heal them, stretch them, strengthen them, and get endurance just like you would any other muscle–especially important after having a baby! Definitely go if it still bothers you :)
[Reply]
Congratulations on the run! I ran the ½ on Saturday as well and so it’s fun to read your opinion on it since you are a much more experienced runner than I am. I’ve run this course twice now and think it’s incredibly hilly but without having any other courses to compare it to, I figured it was pretty standard. It’s nice to know there are flatter courses out there! I think about how difficult it was for me (as a single woman) to find the time to train and then to think you could do that with an infant…. You’re amazing! Congrats again on a race well run! :)
[Reply]
Emily Malone Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 3:21 pm
Congrats on your race as well!
[Reply]
Lauren @ Sugar Coated Sisters Reply:
June 26th, 2012 at 9:50 pm
I’m confused – I ran the race on Saturday as well. Why does this post say Sunday? Was it really a 2-day event?
[Reply]
Emily Malone Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 7:12 am
No you are right. I wrote this after the fact, and since most races are Sunday I just typed that. It was Saturday!
[Reply]
Great post; I love your writing. It just keeps getting better and I actually teared up when you found out your final time through Casey. Congrats on the race and you’re time. BTW, you look fantastic!
[Reply]
That is truly amazing – I can’t believe that you’re running half marathons already. That in itself is so great. I can barely get out there for a consistent 3 miler, much less train and mine’s over a year old!
I totally agree on sometimes just leaving the gps behind and just running the way your body wants yuo to run – after all, that’s the whole beauty of working out – listening to your body, pushing a few limits, and really getting in touch with yourself.
[Reply]
You rock momma! I’ll admit I’ve been a bit down on myself lately for not signing up for any races post baby, but I honestly just knew for my mental sanity it would be more pressure than I was ready for. Instead I’m trying to focus on just getting in a good workout most days during the week and so far that feels great. You should feel so proud!
[Reply]
I dunno, I think running 13 miles is pretty extraordinary! And anyone who pushes themselves out of their comfort zone and achieves something they weren’t sure they were capable of doing gets a that’s effing amazing in my book! Well done!
[Reply]
Great job, Emily. I just thought it was interesting to read that you, too, are having pelvic pain still. If I run more than 8 miles, I get incredibly sore as well. SIgh. :) But great post. Great job!
[Reply]
Emily Malone Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 3:21 pm
Ashley – WOW! I had no idea. Yep, basically feels like I’m going to tear back open when I run. Intense deep pain and throbbing, and then for an hour or so afterward. It sucks!
[Reply]
Congrats on a great race!
[Reply]
Congratulations Emily! You did a fantastic job. You should be really proud.
[Reply]
Did you notice that the last three digits of your bib are 219, like 2:19? It was meant to be! Congratulations!
[Reply]
Emily Malone Reply:
June 25th, 2012 at 3:20 pm
Yes so weird! And my bib number at my 15k was 219, and my sister Sarah’s birthday is 2/19. I think she’s my good luck charm!
[Reply]
Congrats! I know you must be so proud :)
[Reply]
You look so fabulous and I am very proud of you for your new attitude!
[Reply]
Congrats on another race! I’m sure running in Seattle is just so pretty. Just remember running isn’t the only sport you can fall in love with! If it hurts, it’s not fun, or worth the pain. And running while bf’ing and having an infant is no small feat! You did awesome.
[Reply]
After reading your post I realized that your bib number predicted your race– 15219. Here were 15 corals in front of you angled you finished in 2:19!
Congrats on your race!! You should be proud!!
[Reply]
As always Emily, an inspiration to all of us!
[Reply]
Amazing job and congrats!! :)
[Reply]
Way to go, Emily!! We were all virtually cheering for you – I was thinking of you throughout the day. :) I know you feel you’ve changed as a runner, but I hope you know that you’re still a huge inspiration. 13 miles is a HUGE (to me :)accomplishment. I’m still in the 5-mile range when it comes to running, but you’re a constant inspiration. I also love that you’re ok with shorter distances and not always being the fastest. It makes me feel so much better about my limitations/preferences and the mental voice that says I’m not a “real” runner because I’m not doing tons of long (or any, right now) runs. Thank you!
[Reply]
Congrats on your race! I think it’s so inspirational that you’ve run two halfs after you gave birth to Cullen. You’re a rock star!
[Reply]
This post made me teary eyed. Thank you as always, Emily for being so raw and honest.
[Reply]
Reading this made me feel so much better. I also have an 8-month old, and I am currently training to run my first half-marathon EVER. I ran pretty regularly before getting pregnant, but getting back into it post-pregnancy was pretty rough. It’s so hard to stick to a training schedule sometimes when you have a new little baby! Thanks for the reminder that the only person I’m really racing against is myself :)
[Reply]
you look really great! congrats on the race!
[Reply]
Congrats on keeping such a positive energy throughout the race and enjoying the ride. Those hills sound brutal, but you did great!
[Reply]
So happy for you! Amazing
[Reply]
Congratulations Emily! I think I commented after your last race as well :) I am in the same boat as you…trying to get back into it after two boys! My first half-marathon after my 2nd was born…I was so excited for. Couldn’t wait for my husband and kids to watch me! Then, my husband ended up having to travel for work, so my mom came to watch the kids. It was raining that morning, so we thought it would be better for her to keep the kids at home than have them out in the rain. I was solo as well. On my drive home, I remember thinking about how I had to completely change my expectations…and it was disappointing.
Anyway, thank you so much for writing about this. I don’t really “know” you, but wish that we lived closer…we have so much in common :)
Hope you are enjoying your vacation!!!
[Reply]
Emily Malone Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 7:12 am
Thanks Laura! Congrats to you too!
[Reply]
I feel you on finishing alone! When i do expos in other states for runing skirts I race alone and finish alone, get on a plane and go home. Its so weird! I did this ffor rock n roll providence and rnr St Louis. I made a rabdim lady take my photo after so i aat least had one of me with my medal! Good job in the race!
[Reply]
Emily, I am so, SO impressed!!! You truly rock!
As a side note about the pelvic pain, my friend went to physical therapy for it and found it extremely helpful!
Again, congrats!
[Reply]
Congratulations! And thanks for mentioning the pelvic floor thing–I’m having the same exact problem and it’s nice to hear I’m not alone! I know there are specific exercises you can do to strengthen your PF muscles (besides kegels!), but I haven’t gotten around to actually doing them yet…Anyway, it’s great that you’re focusing on what really matters: motherhood! :) Cullen’s such a cutie!
[Reply]
That’s awesome! Go you!
[Reply]
Congrats on a great race and doing it by yourself. I always have a fear of going to races by myself and to do such a big one is awesome.
In regards to your pelvic pain, I had pubic symphisis disorder with my pregnancies and I have pubic bone pain after long runs/marathons quite often. If you are having pubic bone pain, I recommend strength training for your hips and abs in order to avoid injury as my pubic bone pain has let to osteoarthritis in my pubic bone which has also caused hip flexor tendonitis due to altering my stride. Who knows if that is what is going on with you, but know you are not alone, and my youngest is 5! :) Congrats again, I love reading your blog as it is so real and your family always makes me smile.
[Reply]
Leave a comment