tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30659995539905691702024-03-05T07:14:32.610-06:00Running To Me - A Running BlogAll that comes with training for a marathon.running to mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615071273718618942noreply@blogger.comBlogger294125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3065999553990569170.post-76449433036250143582016-01-22T06:50:00.000-06:002016-01-22T06:50:19.488-06:00Time Heals All<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">I became too injured to continue training for the 2015 Chicago Marathon. I was able to defer my entry to 2016 which was such a relief.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Slowly, but surely, I'm almost back to the speeds I was at in 2013 - truly my best year.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">That too, is such a relief, because, as you know, when you're injured it feels like the end of running.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">But, I'm back at it!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">My next race is a half marathon in mid-March. That will be the true test of where I'm at with my speed. </span>running to mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615071273718618942noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3065999553990569170.post-39234596784729742022015-08-12T00:31:00.002-05:002015-11-16T06:42:34.322-06:00Optimistic Me<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Marathon training was off to a rocky start, DAY ONE. Everything I've read says training for a marathon with an injury falls under the category of what-not-to-do.<br />
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Focusing on form<i> has been my focus </i>(see the optimism coming out?). I've had a high hamstring issue for a long, long, long time until I started doing a few trail runs where form become a different kind of necessity.<br />
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<i>A Sunday Miracle</i>, I thought.<br />
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Working out muscles A to B was taking a toll. Trail runs work muscles A to Z. The <i>Sunday Miracle</i> was truly that I didn't get hurt, <i>and</i> my hamstring felt better. I was on the mend. (I'm thinking "<i>Sunday Miracle</i>" needs to be capitalized because it's a big deal, so I'm going with it).<br />
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Being a novice trail runner (held my own though - only fell once) I trashed my "street" running shoes in the mud. Feeling great = <i>Let's buy new running shoes!</i><br />
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There are many, many runners that alternate shoes and are fine with it. Not me. The minute I change it up, there's an issue. Even if I buy a new pair of the SAME PAIR I've been running in. Damn those shoemakers.<br />
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You know where this is going. New shoes = new issues. Now, to the point I can't land on my right leg without terrible quad pain. I'm literally (really, figuratively) running with a flat tire.<br />
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Reading this, you can commend me for my calmness and composure, but honestly, last night's run was a train wreck that brought me to tears in the middle of the road. I'm a grown woman and I didn't care. I'm sure a neighbor from two neighborhoods over, saw me, but the bottom line is A GIRL'S GOTTA RUN! Every neighbor, worldwide, has got to understand that.<br />
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I had big plans for this blog and blogging about training for (not to mention <i>RUNNING</i>) the Chicago Marathon. It's halfway through training. My longest run was 14 miles last weekend, I couldn't bare the pain to run 2 more to make 16. I haven't been able to do much speed work simply because my leg can't move with ease and I don't want to make things worse.<br />
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So, I thought I would post a smiley picture — prior to buying those new shoes or whatever it was that threw me off — to remind myself <i>I can get through this</i>.<br />
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Going into training, I thought, <i>ok this will be my last marathon</i>. This year's Chicago Marathon may not be "the one", but I'm not giving up.<br />
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<br />running to mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615071273718618942noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3065999553990569170.post-58227321075095214282015-06-03T06:38:00.000-05:002015-06-03T06:38:20.424-05:00National Running Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy National Running Day!</div>
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<b>May the wind always be on your back and the sun upon your face.</b></div>
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Have a great run today.</div>
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<br />running to mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615071273718618942noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3065999553990569170.post-79660795938837021272015-05-12T06:49:00.000-05:002015-05-12T06:51:14.748-05:00Chicago Marathon 10-11-15<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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As you know, this past year really has been challenging for me to run and feel good about it. </div>
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I'm still dealing with a high hamstring pull and trying to get back up to speed since my iron was low - lots of frustration. Being diligent taking an iron supplement and being conscious of my form has helped me improve — at least has allowed me to run a few runs, recently, that make me feel as though I haven't lost all the training I had in the bank.</div>
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So, I signed up for the Chicago Marathon and got in the lottery with my 2013 Boston PR, 3:39. I'm very excited to get back into training <b>with a purpose</b>. </div>
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Dare I say my goal is to run it in 3:30?</div>
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Happy running!</div>
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<br />running to mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615071273718618942noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3065999553990569170.post-25706543009929535202015-03-31T10:06:00.002-05:002015-03-31T10:06:47.139-05:00Going for the Green<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Well, I ran it. It wasn't my best race or my worst. A week prior, I was having slight chest pains and heart palpations. And, of course, thought it was in my best interest to have it checked out.</div>
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Go figure. My iron level was at an all time low. That explains a ton. There I was overly in tune to my hamstring and form (and how exhausting that was…) I completely did not make the connection with my fatigue and that my iron level had dropped again.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3O8pBXUgExA5DJ_8A7jb6pdQfIb5fYO3pB6uWuF34d0MKxqeYIPQsig5C3dqRwIlxe0jVXsKOVHvEWv3OorBPNnmKJol8VGWXcPjMV4cI8rLi13PPJkAmJx4NFAejCMedsuCf0qVXuKM/s1600/photo_get-lucky.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3O8pBXUgExA5DJ_8A7jb6pdQfIb5fYO3pB6uWuF34d0MKxqeYIPQsig5C3dqRwIlxe0jVXsKOVHvEWv3OorBPNnmKJol8VGWXcPjMV4cI8rLi13PPJkAmJx4NFAejCMedsuCf0qVXuKM/s1600/photo_get-lucky.jpg" /></a></div>
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Cheers to that! </div>
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Now I know and am doing everything I can to get it back up there asap. Like eating lots of yummy kale, right?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTZcRqQ0V-XDARCXvl3QvJsam3FoO7ZwaV7V5jMdaChUi4UkfInhH-J6_nqyuCHIExOYPVxZGJXzbV7qnXVrbvzZe5KfP8uxzBySXPrTKVKviWRBH6j7VIeY2VgW5ycEWKO2s9nfs9zWE/s1600/kale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTZcRqQ0V-XDARCXvl3QvJsam3FoO7ZwaV7V5jMdaChUi4UkfInhH-J6_nqyuCHIExOYPVxZGJXzbV7qnXVrbvzZe5KfP8uxzBySXPrTKVKviWRBH6j7VIeY2VgW5ycEWKO2s9nfs9zWE/s1600/kale.jpg" /></a></div>
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It really is amazing how being aware and making small changes can make a huge difference — physically and mentally. I don't have to hang up my running shoes after all!</div>
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After bumping up my iron intake, getting to bed early and eating more efficiently, I finally felt the best I have in months and had a fantastic 8 mile run on Saturday.</div>
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Happy eating, sleeping and running!</div>
<br />running to mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615071273718618942noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3065999553990569170.post-22025599693543105002015-01-23T07:31:00.001-06:002015-01-23T07:31:40.856-06:00Get Luck Half Marathon - Chicago<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpB8fSHqyjelPdAGRLZoCOWAnc9XPSQZ2PCKcAXL42Kq3crKl7Tu5gtWopDKrZoqpz8K4tfa9JCQu2ymbFsuMrSigY1DbqsYDo_8FR7JfmzxJ5pg688I3gZj9yyujN-M2bgddVySyrKc0/s1600/four-leaf-clover_den10studio.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpB8fSHqyjelPdAGRLZoCOWAnc9XPSQZ2PCKcAXL42Kq3crKl7Tu5gtWopDKrZoqpz8K4tfa9JCQu2ymbFsuMrSigY1DbqsYDo_8FR7JfmzxJ5pg688I3gZj9yyujN-M2bgddVySyrKc0/s1600/four-leaf-clover_den10studio.jpg" height="640" width="469" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.den10studio.com/" target="_blank">[photo by den10studio]</a></span></div>
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It's official.</div>
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I'm training again.</div>
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And I have signed up for <a href="http://www.chicagogetlucky.org/" target="_blank">Get Lucky Half Marathon</a> on March 14, 2015.</div>
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Let's be honest. When runners run a race, most often than not, they want to PR. Last year I ran this race and had my fastest half marathon time 1:39. </div>
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Since I've been on the bench for a good part of the past year and haven't done speed work for as long as I can remember, a PR may be a reach.</div>
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But, heck, with double four leaf clovers, I might just get lucky!</div>
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<a href="http://www.chicagogetlucky.org/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYf8H_aBloissvpbhEqHvOc32Ui9Oa5BfAOsiKgkygdxzZjk0bEPmh3SCt1DoIKBApM5luwJQuTfMRI1P-DccnanaalqAwDuZB4TeqsUqD_BAYYfGNlXMiBRuVM1QR8TSNLc-abhx4q2Q/s1600/get_lucky_logo.jpg" /></a></div>
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Happy running. Have a great weekend.</div>
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running to mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615071273718618942noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3065999553990569170.post-56453857887096269522014-12-16T07:41:00.000-06:002014-12-16T07:47:43.111-06:00What are junk miles?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>Last week:</b> 24 total miles<br />
<b>Saturday:</b> 9 miles<br />
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The past month, I've been running pretty steadily — 5 miles, 6 miles, nothing over 10, no speed or tempo — with the plan to keep running while getting over a pulled hamstring. I'm averaging about 25 miles a week.<br />
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The term <i>junk miles</i> popped into my head.<br />
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Am I running junk miles?</h4>
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Of course, I googled <i>junk miles</i> and found two articles, one from active.com and the other from competitor.com.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.active.com/running/articles/cut-out-the-junk-miles-to-get-faster-and-stronger" target="_blank">Cut out the junk miles to get faster and stronger</a></b><br />
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<i>What are junk miles? Junk miles are the ones you run that don't produce a specific physiological benefit. - </i><a href="http://www.active.com/running/articles/cut-out-the-junk-miles-to-get-faster-and-stronger" target="_blank">active.com</a></blockquote>
<a href="http://running.competitor.com/2013/08/training/is-there-a-such-thing-as-junk-miles_54006" target="_blank"><b>Is there a such thing as junk miles?</b></a><br />
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<i>Runners who use the term “junk miles” tend to subscribe to the high-mileage philosophy of training. They believe that a high training volume is the most important characteristic of an effective training program. “The more miles you run, the better”—within reason—is their motto. By contrast, runners who use the term “junk miles” negatively typically subscribe to a quality-over-quantity philosophy. They believe that fast-paced running should be the first priority in training, and that the point of diminishing returns in mileage is reached much sooner than high-volume advocates believe it is.</i></blockquote>
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<i>Evidence from the real world also does not clearly favor either the quality-first or the quantity-first philosophy.</i> - <a href="http://running.competitor.com/2013/08/training/is-there-a-such-thing-as-junk-miles_54006" target="_blank">competitor.com</a></blockquote>
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Interesting.<br />
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I'm running to stay in shape. I'll bump up the pace, but not until it won't be a set back for my pulled hamstring. At this time, I'm not training for a specific goal, so in my case, no, I'm not running junk miles.<br />
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I'm thankful just to be running!<br />
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<br />running to mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615071273718618942noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3065999553990569170.post-37118988267911444632014-12-12T07:15:00.001-06:002014-12-15T07:25:37.717-06:00Good Words<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.den10studio.com/product-category/prints/letters-words/" target="_blank">[den10studio art prints]</a></span></div>
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Yes, it's true this past year hasn't been my best year of running.</div>
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But as Henry Thoreau tells us, <i>never look back unless you are planning to go that way</i>.</div>
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Simply put, get over it, don't dwell. Take what you learned and move forward.</div>
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I'm not planning on going back. Are you? Of course there are the highlights to put down in the books and, <i>big sigh, </i>the things to overcome. But there are also new goals to be set.</div>
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And met.</div>
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Let's get to it!</div>
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Have a great long run this weekend.</div>
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running to mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615071273718618942noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3065999553990569170.post-19836349856315486652014-12-09T07:39:00.002-06:002014-12-16T07:49:12.388-06:00What do you listen to when you run?For the past few years, I couldn't get enough music to listen to when running. Then, for the past few months, music just isn't doing it for me.<br />
<br />
The buzz at work is all about <a href="http://serialpodcast.org/">SERIAL podcast</a>.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq" type="cite">
<i>SERIAL is a podcast where we unfold one nonfiction story, week by week, over the course of a season. We'll stay with each story for as long as it takes to get to the bottom of it.</i></blockquote>
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<a href="http://serialpodcast.org/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPOqlJzlh2iVJIdxJl2Wv7r2SjGSFOLcBZiCNZnYkzz59IBz7JYV9w6_57eKq746IHSSKjZHEne8IHrpWZNwveVQO66Ah85fcE-lWpYP02lJpSnYw3ugVKU8znYo0jtaNR3V8gIb356-4/s1600/serial+podcast.PNG" height="640" width="425" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
So I gave it a listen yesterday as I ran on the treadmill — 5 miles of running in place has never gone by so fast.<br />
<br />
<b>I'm hooked.</b><br />
<br />
Here's the link, you gotta check it out:<br />
<a href="http://serialpodcast.org/">serialpodcast.org</a><br />
<br />running to mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615071273718618942noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3065999553990569170.post-50675595608023440412014-12-04T08:28:00.000-06:002014-12-04T08:28:37.423-06:00What is the best time of day to run?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4sADrm2WeXH_4hDBtbIOyahYwsuizzTPEs4iM8KAD5s8sWrSrFzrIcBmjnq7BrPGUBPNL-VfMG2IxuFc5KirTS048n9953tThXBWe0_3szFqf2nbjDkqqBb5U-6ANB2piyPQ-f0TzS-U/s1600/running_sunrise.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4sADrm2WeXH_4hDBtbIOyahYwsuizzTPEs4iM8KAD5s8sWrSrFzrIcBmjnq7BrPGUBPNL-VfMG2IxuFc5KirTS048n9953tThXBWe0_3szFqf2nbjDkqqBb5U-6ANB2piyPQ-f0TzS-U/s1600/running_sunrise.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
The last two days, I ran in the wee dawning hours. And it started my day off in such a positive way.<br />
<br />
Usually I run after work, around six. All day long I'm thinking, <i>okay, gotta get home, change, meet my group and run - then I need to get home, change, make dinner, eat dinner, clean up dinner, change into pjs and flop on the sofa…or read in bed…</i>who am I kidding, at that point I can't get through more than a page without falling asleep<i>…zzzz.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<h4>
The hardest part of running in the morning is getting out of bed. It's still dark outside. It's cold.</h4>
<br />
But once I get out of bed and <i>immediately </i>put on my running clothes, I know I can get out the door and run.<br />
<br />
Then all day long I'm thinking, okay, gotta get home and run…but I remember I already ran! What a great feeling. Run done and then I have the whole night to <i>make dinner, eat dinner, clean up dinner, change into pjs and flop on the sofa…or read in bed…</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
What is your favorite time of day to run?<br />
<i><br /></i>running to mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615071273718618942noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3065999553990569170.post-30846320225548925922014-12-02T06:32:00.000-06:002014-12-03T22:40:21.718-06:00Weekly Running Workout<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="copyright: <a href='http://www.123rf.com/profile_warrengoldswain'>warrengoldswain / 123RF Stock Photo</a>" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvtQkKH60eam-eLlbkAwSLqjQYAl2BoMbrMrNzq0kvuwMAZImoFHmsNhN47TleJbqK789fDpT9JwK_oxcmXsYH3gzZNo-KcYCbX1z2ZRYzLs26btpIWN0VYwYnRA3yUVBklhb7Sa01mcs/s1600/runner_running_to_me.jpg" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b>
<b>Last week: </b>31 total miles<br />
<br />
Do you ever have that stretch of time when you think your running days are over?<br />
<br />
It takes a lot of patience to get through it and then it's like the sunrise over the horizon. The work isn't done yet, but it's a start, a mini breakthrough.<br />
<br />
I made progress getting in some miles without a whole lot of discomfort with my hamstring. Yay.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Here is my weekly running workout:</h4>
<b>M –</b> rest<br />
<b>T</b><b> –</b> 5 miles<br />
<b>W</b><b> –</b> 7 miles<br />
<b>Th</b><b> –</b> 5 miles<br />
<b>F</b><b> –</b> rest<br />
<b>Sat</b><b> –</b> 6 miles<br />
<b>Sun</b><b> –</b> 8 miles<br />
<br />
Steady, easy pace. Working on a consistent turnover.<br />
<br />
Happy running!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />running to mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615071273718618942noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3065999553990569170.post-54831783275492624732014-11-29T14:56:00.003-06:002014-11-29T14:57:55.390-06:00How to Keep Running and Recover from Injury<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx8RHwWZuJ2MG8n6E34zqpCB3LJyPdnY1F28ItZDzPVMieyPtkWgog5r6VOhTVyWHWBLbM_bFDXZjffNBD787AQlrCng97SIrvJ_XkklaCeVF9ClcgifeIXzcewgDSop_tONW3e8Ni628/s1600/happy_runner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx8RHwWZuJ2MG8n6E34zqpCB3LJyPdnY1F28ItZDzPVMieyPtkWgog5r6VOhTVyWHWBLbM_bFDXZjffNBD787AQlrCng97SIrvJ_XkklaCeVF9ClcgifeIXzcewgDSop_tONW3e8Ni628/s1600/happy_runner.jpg" /></a></div>
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This is one happy runner! </h4>
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Although I'm not fully recovered from my pulled hamstring, for once in what seems like ages, I feel as though it's finally going away. Hooray!</div>
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Last post I was saying how much it was hurting, running or not. The major turning point was when I hadn't run for a few days straight and by Friday it was killing me to sit. Ah-ha! It's the sitting. It's ruining me — I need to keep it moving.</div>
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<h4>
How to keep running and recover from this injury?</h4>
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Steady, easy pace, short strides. </div>
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Saturday morning, I met my group at 7:30 am and ran 7 miles. I hadn't run that far in over a month. The hamstring yelped a bit, but later in the day it was not bad (I also made it a point not to sit, so I cleaned my house :) </div>
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When I woke up Sunday it felt the better than ever and later that day I ran 8 easy miles. Steady, easy pace, short strides. I've run 5 out of the last six days and I think I'm on my way to recovery.</div>
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I did not run in the annual <a href="http://run314pie.com/race-info/" target="_blank">Run 3.14 Pie</a> this Thanksgiving — knowing that I couldn't rein it in and resist the need for speed. That for sure would have been a set back.</div>
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While perusing running blogs, I read <a href="http://www.karagoucher.com/blog/" target="_blank">Kara Goucher's posts</a> about her recovery. Truly inspirational, so genuine! A must read: <a href="http://www.karagoucher.com/blog/" target="_blank">Kara Goucher's blog</a> (well designed too :)</div>
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Have a great weekend.</div>
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running to mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615071273718618942noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3065999553990569170.post-23239027371969169772014-11-21T07:48:00.000-06:002014-11-28T21:05:42.464-06:00Good Words - Set Another Goal Quote<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_tWOJBBYiA6zIg5WQcPsh3uNxH26N-rInYX0JOKS_u3RoATzWqRL1sfvSIumBIrNq6bxKyxM_qIz_kSSwLYxQsWuZ4-fgpVd5vSF9QE7Gr1033CJJBZfFwxeMIOCRBpLxr4vUKLBdwMg/s1600/goals-dreams-quote-cs-lewis_520.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_tWOJBBYiA6zIg5WQcPsh3uNxH26N-rInYX0JOKS_u3RoATzWqRL1sfvSIumBIrNq6bxKyxM_qIz_kSSwLYxQsWuZ4-fgpVd5vSF9QE7Gr1033CJJBZfFwxeMIOCRBpLxr4vUKLBdwMg/s1600/goals-dreams-quote-cs-lewis_520.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.den10studio.com/blog/" target="_blank">[source: den10studio blog]</a></span></div>
<br />
You would think after four years, running would have gotten easier, right? Lately, I run low mileage at an easy pace, every few days and my hamstring continues to hurt daily - run or no run. I had a wonderful restorative compression message with Arnica, which helped for a few days.<br />
<br />
When I first started running I remember people talking about how miserable a pulled hamstring is. I thought,<i> I hope I never get that! </i>But here I am.<br />
<br />
Runners have set backs. Training isn't a linear path. Ups and downs.<br />
<br />
Setting new goals, whether it's 15 extra seconds of a plank or drinking another glass of water - <i>do you know how hard it is to get into the habit of drinking half your body weight in ounces of water? - </i>something to strive for, <i> </i>is a positive measure of accomplishment.<br />
<i><br /></i>
Recovery from this crazy, annoying, hamstring pull will take time. I just need to be patient and not focus on the injury, until I can gradually get back to where I left off <i>(before Boston, ugh)</i>. So I'm changing up my goals!<br />
<br />
And you're never too old to do that.<br />
<br />
Have a great weekend!<br />
<br />
<br />running to mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615071273718618942noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3065999553990569170.post-68148119228400484842014-11-17T18:48:00.000-06:002014-11-17T18:49:33.866-06:00Recovery Running - On the Treadmill<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaSyFTnTCszQZFt-kYsyMLh0F9wQwGiSc1a1w1MP3r3aM8ldjxXxuD7WJtc4a_dO9th3dQ3JR2EZLnlXOPkDK0JTmQRVmyG0fhrnjEHLCmcI-FyKmobGekZtLb2BVTHQbEEjNDKecR1eQ/s1600/treadmil.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaSyFTnTCszQZFt-kYsyMLh0F9wQwGiSc1a1w1MP3r3aM8ldjxXxuD7WJtc4a_dO9th3dQ3JR2EZLnlXOPkDK0JTmQRVmyG0fhrnjEHLCmcI-FyKmobGekZtLb2BVTHQbEEjNDKecR1eQ/s1600/treadmil.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
It's that time again when it's dark by 5:00 pm—super dark—so I headed to the gym to get in a few miles.<br />
<br />
<i>That is not really how many calories I burned in 5 miles—a 220 lb. man must have programed the treadmill before me.</i><br />
<br />
The treadmill, which I usually dread, may have played a part in a good run without much pain afterward. My guess is because I maintained an even pace, no hills. I'm calling this time in my running cycle "Recovery Running"—slow, short distances as not to aggravate my hamstring, calf and hip. When I get through these easy runs without anything barking at me, I'm super happy. It's way better than not running at all, that would make me super grumpy :(<br />
<br />
<b>Last week</b>: 14 total miles, plus some miles on the bike<br />
<b>Saturday:</b> 5 miles<br />
<br />
Patience. Patience. Patience.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />running to mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615071273718618942noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3065999553990569170.post-22069189830854237412014-11-11T08:46:00.000-06:002014-11-11T13:05:16.742-06:00Perfect 10<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8fHYcJRywkfwsCeyH9KbJtfNO71F0CW5E0KXhZmxBLmPUFQnfHdET2DN_AZ4VgIdOXGkEmXP2UHAuv98agGiw2zPADscbE2UVWj0WT1-Qq5TCywbpWev9QJhB5e8sfFUXH2Z2YdQ6Qeo/s1600/Perfect10_local_root.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8fHYcJRywkfwsCeyH9KbJtfNO71F0CW5E0KXhZmxBLmPUFQnfHdET2DN_AZ4VgIdOXGkEmXP2UHAuv98agGiw2zPADscbE2UVWj0WT1-Qq5TCywbpWev9QJhB5e8sfFUXH2Z2YdQ6Qeo/s1600/Perfect10_local_root.jpg" /></a></div>
Actually, Perfect 12.<br />
(RFM, not shown, taking the picture)<br />
<br />
Last Saturday was Navy Pier Perfect 10, 10k or 10 miler. I didn't run, but cheered on my fellow running group. I did get in 4 miles along the lake. It was a grey day, but that's Chicago for ya'. Running in the city with the lake on one side and then skyline on the other, is breathtaking (no pun intended) no matter what the weather.<br />
<br />
Afterwards, we had a wonderful brunch at <a href="http://www.localrootchicago.com/" target="_blank">Local Root</a> - farm to table concept. Great atmosphere, and company!<br />
<br />
<b>Last week:</b> 16 miles total<br />
<b>Saturday:</b> 4 miles<br />
<br />
Here's to a strong running week!running to mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615071273718618942noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3065999553990569170.post-1351463941255108012014-11-06T07:33:00.000-06:002014-11-06T07:40:30.758-06:00Good Words<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.den10studio.com/product/run-often-running-quote/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJdFmSX0hCsEsTB4vmX4JENTIFIx3zAQzN5s92MFm_GF75fLkD-IWl-6T7A_NaUt51iW1yhTIW0-RRq_mbmgPcfzHk-19FPkwVZRqWzE1vt9pgVTzrv47eHCVgMyTLMxq7a0abwbRDgOs/s1600/joy_of_running_print.jpg" height="640" width="492" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.den10studio.com/product/run-often-running-quote/" target="_blank">[den10studio art+design]</a></div>
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Since my last post, or should I say since my last speed workout, I've been struggling once again. I backed out of the DPRT half marathon — I physically couldn't run without doing more damage.</div>
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That last round of 800s set me back by aggravating my high-ham and in turn started a chain reaction of other things: pulling, tightening, aching. </div>
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That, and those new shoes I got back in August. <i>Darn those Nike Zooms!</i></div>
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So, in the last three weeks I've logged-in about 16 miles. I'm seeing my chiro and doing some strength training exercises. All that said, I need to skip the <u><a href="http://www.chicagosperfect10.com/" target="_blank">Navy Pier Perfect 10</a></u> this weekend. It breaks my heart since I've run it since the race was established a few years ago.</div>
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I know if I try to hobble through it, my injuries will get worse — knowing me, I would run it like I had trained for it! All my running friends are signed up. <i>(I plan to go and cheer them on!)</i></div>
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My new goals are to run nice and easy, short strides and low mileage until my gate is smooth and not a limp...</div>
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…and to <i><b>never outrun my joy of running</b></i>!</div>
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running to mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615071273718618942noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3065999553990569170.post-75100924760174860842014-09-30T07:41:00.002-05:002014-10-16T07:25:22.212-05:00Cross-Country Season and a Track Workout<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtDKmPyAAfDguy0-C69LjbvpyU9a-_g2IIYbfOYqFwh6CeEml-IZlxvzXtWncRQANX4IjVqKz4rlI6MLBm2kVXNJ50R7bR_56qeogjOGdKjnHjGlxMYfo6mzBRiXsDybUTwFBFmIjs-LM/s1600/CC_start_Palatine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtDKmPyAAfDguy0-C69LjbvpyU9a-_g2IIYbfOYqFwh6CeEml-IZlxvzXtWncRQANX4IjVqKz4rlI6MLBm2kVXNJ50R7bR_56qeogjOGdKjnHjGlxMYfo6mzBRiXsDybUTwFBFmIjs-LM/s1600/CC_start_Palatine.jpg" /></a></div>
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Saturday, my daughter had a Cross-Country invitational and placed 9th overall for JV. It's so exciting and moving to watch her run! The start of a huge invitational is alway breathtaking. Fast and furious, I missed the shot of my daughter, she's way in there wearing yellow. There had to be at least 300 girls in this race. </div>
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Thursday's meet will honor the seniors — talk about moving. I can't believe this is her last year running CC. Track season and then that's it. The great thing about team running is that the experience stays with you for the rest of your life. The ability to dip deep when you thought you couldn't dig any deeper can be applied to adversity that comes your way. I love that!</div>
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And one day maybe my daughter and I can run a half marathon together :)</div>
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My speed has been coming back — it takes a lot of the frustration out of the run to look at my watch and surprise myself with my pace.</div>
<b><br /></b>
<b>Last week:</b> 33 total miles<br />
<b>Sunday:</b> 12 miles<br />
<br />
Our track workout last week was 800s, always challenging, but feels good to get it done. Speed workouts are priceless.<br />
<br />
7 miles @ 7:51 pace<br />
<b>5x800x400</b><br />
3:36<br />
3:36<br />
3:29<br />
3:36<br />
3:23<br />
<br />
3 weeks left until the DPRT half marathon!<br />
<br />
Have a great day.<br />
<br />
<br />running to mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615071273718618942noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3065999553990569170.post-61931590130367997592014-09-24T07:33:00.000-05:002014-09-24T07:33:30.182-05:00Good Words<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq54V9ieYM8ibvdv8oaXBT-h4hPFL1H0WUi1es9wv2VzYzf7KJGz6m3f0l8ttbHTjk4OEIBwcE8ogXjWLy_UdOGK_b0q2jqolBfNDxVNhVjaiNgIoNvM-w6N0B87E396jrmdOyKSzB0Is/s1600/hard-work-beats-talent-quote.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq54V9ieYM8ibvdv8oaXBT-h4hPFL1H0WUi1es9wv2VzYzf7KJGz6m3f0l8ttbHTjk4OEIBwcE8ogXjWLy_UdOGK_b0q2jqolBfNDxVNhVjaiNgIoNvM-w6N0B87E396jrmdOyKSzB0Is/s1600/hard-work-beats-talent-quote.jpg" /></a></div>
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Cross Country season is in the air. My daughter is on the team and nothing is more exciting than going to watch her meets. I love feeling all the energy from the kids pre-race and the excitement of the finish. So moving and inspiring. This shirt got my attention! So true, right?running to mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615071273718618942noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3065999553990569170.post-80703600462581320242014-09-17T08:37:00.000-05:002014-09-17T08:40:06.407-05:00Good Words<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMxOj-Pfjrwgl33vhXhq1li25JQ-5Es72IVoB0UF6_vkc4Usylh1o3B7yCmPDqVMpYwZUFNyNbdp3vJkkw1ud7EZMWvrt8VV-DtjDRzxKeKu-VSLx9LLiEbo2c9H_XC72FZ6OSWOw_cC0/s1600/every-day-good-day-print.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMxOj-Pfjrwgl33vhXhq1li25JQ-5Es72IVoB0UF6_vkc4Usylh1o3B7yCmPDqVMpYwZUFNyNbdp3vJkkw1ud7EZMWvrt8VV-DtjDRzxKeKu-VSLx9LLiEbo2c9H_XC72FZ6OSWOw_cC0/s1600/every-day-good-day-print.jpg" height="640" width="512" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.den10studio.com/product/every-day-is-a-good-day-running-quote/" target="_blank">[den10studio shop]</a></span></div>
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<b>Last week: </b>22 total miles<br />
<b>Saturday:</b> 8 miles<br />
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Last week seemed like a light running week. Unfortunately, I missed the speed workout, but for good reason — my sister is in town. We have so much fun when we're together.<br />
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Like magic, I am running up-to-speed again. My speed, that is. Labor Day has been the milestone to pass, then things seem back to normal with my pace. Why is that? Did it take me 5 months to recover from Boston, get my iron levels back up?<br />
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Whatever the answer may be, I'll take it!<br />
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This week, I'm back on track and training for a half marathon that's on October 18th. Beautiful, wooded, trail run.<br />
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On the side, I created a new art print with a running quote to celebrate the day you get our there a run.<br />
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Check it out in <a href="http://www.den10studio.com/product/every-day-is-a-good-day-running-quote/" target="_blank">my shop at Den10studio art+design</a>. <a href="http://www.den10studio.com/product/every-day-is-a-good-day-running-quote/" target="_blank">[here]</a><br />
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<br />running to mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615071273718618942noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3065999553990569170.post-17915277072341765242014-09-08T07:32:00.001-05:002014-09-08T07:36:47.295-05:00Love to Run<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3UrHVMTtAy321WPNJuMvQYU_iXsTdwx0lEZ_Yne63u47AveZelTFCJBFSSwdwhsaynP3bKdLekVE8mbo4iIyXrzr0YRbddreu40lhW87rFgxRZgdaP3BxbfzHphHeR5zd_8dYTd5McTo/s1600/love-to-run-sign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3UrHVMTtAy321WPNJuMvQYU_iXsTdwx0lEZ_Yne63u47AveZelTFCJBFSSwdwhsaynP3bKdLekVE8mbo4iIyXrzr0YRbddreu40lhW87rFgxRZgdaP3BxbfzHphHeR5zd_8dYTd5McTo/s1600/love-to-run-sign.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b>Last week:</b> 26 miles total<br />
<b>Saturday:</b> 8 miles<br />
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The weather has been perfect for running. Sunny, but cool, no humidity. It makes such a difference, doesn't it?<br />
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Yesterday, we went to the Kane County Flea Market. Lots of stuff to look at which sparks tons of creativity. My daughter took pictures of vintage toys, keys, gears, whatever you can think of, including this sign someone made. How fun.<br />
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Last week was a "rest" week since we ran the half on Labor Day. The next race I'm thinking about signing up for is a half marathon trail run in October. I plan to bump up my mileage again starting this week and take advantage of this beautiful weather!<br />
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<3 2 RUN.<br />
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Have a great running week!<br />
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<br />running to mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615071273718618942noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3065999553990569170.post-9468619907120147642014-09-01T14:12:00.002-05:002014-09-01T14:20:19.144-05:00Labor Day Half Marathon<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNBjJ3KnxbZW663EhFDUQsTzMCaNr5p0B5fxmxc0zVSYC1oR37R693sGSOu94y6Dzx6qYuXAq_5D3ed8HOod5g_AwGLECB1TSlVsjfqTerJyBMdBE3KR6R7qVsF9ojztxhIFKjaoCKukI/s1600/oakbrook_half_bib2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNBjJ3KnxbZW663EhFDUQsTzMCaNr5p0B5fxmxc0zVSYC1oR37R693sGSOu94y6Dzx6qYuXAq_5D3ed8HOod5g_AwGLECB1TSlVsjfqTerJyBMdBE3KR6R7qVsF9ojztxhIFKjaoCKukI/s1600/oakbrook_half_bib2014.jpg" /></a></div>
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It's been a frustrating road, mentally and physically for the past few months, but I'm pleasantly surprised with this race. One of the only races to date I didn't ride my watch and went by feel, only to completely enjoy the run and finished strong. This is a tough course of rolling hills, crushed limestone, street and bike trails, and guaranteed humidity. </div>
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I didn't push myself too hard to reach a goal time, <i>because I didn't even have one</i>. And believe it or not, I ran better than I did last year.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbzeLs680QYwSRSKCmTjWfaSP5Mz2GBvDOIqifryivObXWqWerwi8cG1p16CjxaldieCKaF_n6CiwskXeBneW7kGaq9ydarGg_obyI82PGXZ_ZBMHQ0zNJTf63q7mbXy_l1FFRcGxYwec/s1600/finish_time_oakbrook.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbzeLs680QYwSRSKCmTjWfaSP5Mz2GBvDOIqifryivObXWqWerwi8cG1p16CjxaldieCKaF_n6CiwskXeBneW7kGaq9ydarGg_obyI82PGXZ_ZBMHQ0zNJTf63q7mbXy_l1FFRcGxYwec/s1600/finish_time_oakbrook.png" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpFqs-L_rL6FCS7C6j1rtrOQi43PQhzPWwNLCbAiimsGfKp6sSki-DT50xkHONfo63Gv3nV0WSBec1IAqv2sJKiCDgimZdmyCpy1I94K6iS_KX_M7Qqkbmo-FO_V-TxFSaTkUv-Vcr3rw/s1600/oakbrook_half_2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpFqs-L_rL6FCS7C6j1rtrOQi43PQhzPWwNLCbAiimsGfKp6sSki-DT50xkHONfo63Gv3nV0WSBec1IAqv2sJKiCDgimZdmyCpy1I94K6iS_KX_M7Qqkbmo-FO_V-TxFSaTkUv-Vcr3rw/s1600/oakbrook_half_2014.jpg" /></a></div>
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Peaks + Valleys = Running + Life<br />
Cheers to that with a free race beer!<br />
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<br />running to mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615071273718618942noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3065999553990569170.post-29195256914559062682014-08-26T07:41:00.001-05:002014-08-26T07:41:48.004-05:00It's That Time Again - New Running Shoes<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvFi6Unlx0DFud9E-EkhHqZgQ50zz8y_vGuBJMc5gTTKWohi-YPcYp6v077zRRM8DQ20ENoaFDFJPccvTkZKwsVxz4hCgWKfLbI4KHVDGKlG-WNJdX_-DV0VPXRDLMLr3o-H2582_wC3E/s1600/nike_vomero2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvFi6Unlx0DFud9E-EkhHqZgQ50zz8y_vGuBJMc5gTTKWohi-YPcYp6v077zRRM8DQ20ENoaFDFJPccvTkZKwsVxz4hCgWKfLbI4KHVDGKlG-WNJdX_-DV0VPXRDLMLr3o-H2582_wC3E/s1600/nike_vomero2.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVYoOGZFQ6VxOw8vrpg8Tzx7lMRI4awinPl71Vme5wvpX0F1kvP5WdFndtpJVsIkzXbLd4RWWxeYqLYuspcuhuWhQdf2L1RwWixp9CPe-lEfLnCwi0AQEXRYXNnqS1xJfBvMLM7CIEHKQ/s1600/nike_vomero1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVYoOGZFQ6VxOw8vrpg8Tzx7lMRI4awinPl71Vme5wvpX0F1kvP5WdFndtpJVsIkzXbLd4RWWxeYqLYuspcuhuWhQdf2L1RwWixp9CPe-lEfLnCwi0AQEXRYXNnqS1xJfBvMLM7CIEHKQ/s1600/nike_vomero1.jpg" /></a></div>
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Check out my new kicks — Nike Zoom Vomero 9. A little more cushion and a 12mm heel drop.</div>
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I had a full analysis of my form and this is what I'm going with. Let's see if this corrects my hamstring issue. I'm willing to try anything, including a battery of exercises to strengthen the left side of my lower half. It's amazing to see on video how one sided things can be and how your other half tries to make up for it.</div>
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So far, so good. No residual aches or pains from this new shoe.</div>
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<b>Last week: </b>22 total miles</div>
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<b>Saturday:</b> 8 miles</div>
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<b>Weather:</b> Incredibly humid!</div>
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Monday is the Oakbrook Half. I'm going into it knowing I don't have my speed up as I did the past two years. (But this race is always difficult — humid, blazing morning sun with barely any coverage for the majority of the course). Of course my hope is to finish strong.</div>
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running to mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615071273718618942noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3065999553990569170.post-48837465575658834182014-08-21T08:22:00.001-05:002014-08-21T08:22:48.852-05:00Good Words<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfgOLbBq5f6cky_epqJ6F6MiPr6HjKnUDx-d5dZelyCnrUOCa-hTtcokShUMLVVcBGx-w3OPPDWFkSLLVPsh5ShjvRfV59uOAJZuZ_cDyf3q2eEWHcttGtAl7Sj4bBR3hFCyKxpZWiLvc/s1600/running_quote.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfgOLbBq5f6cky_epqJ6F6MiPr6HjKnUDx-d5dZelyCnrUOCa-hTtcokShUMLVVcBGx-w3OPPDWFkSLLVPsh5ShjvRfV59uOAJZuZ_cDyf3q2eEWHcttGtAl7Sj4bBR3hFCyKxpZWiLvc/s1600/running_quote.png" /></a></div>
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Keep this in mind when struggling with running :)</div>
<br />running to mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615071273718618942noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3065999553990569170.post-20377082668284992582014-08-20T07:14:00.005-05:002014-08-20T07:17:22.146-05:00Switching GearsAfter work on Monday night, my husband and I went for a bike ride. I had some new tires put on and a tune-up and boy, what a smooth ride. My bike and I go back a long way — sophomore year, college. I love that heavy ol' bike. And it was good to change up the workout.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH8dSP2xG4RBkKgMh-geK3KhhsaP3dku8yErC-KRKsKxefySWbsxg6c1SRfqVk90Xt2UM5PgWu1HwH2fmsyVb7qMtH_erLFkI2MnNVquBix1TticBDnXEhK0221hzihTAgo6hXpuqwGaI/s1600/my-bike.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH8dSP2xG4RBkKgMh-geK3KhhsaP3dku8yErC-KRKsKxefySWbsxg6c1SRfqVk90Xt2UM5PgWu1HwH2fmsyVb7qMtH_erLFkI2MnNVquBix1TticBDnXEhK0221hzihTAgo6hXpuqwGaI/s1600/my-bike.jpg" /></a></div>
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Yesterday, I did a progression run and truly felt progress. Mentally, I had to push and focus on maintaining the pace, although it wasn't a laborious struggle. I'm uncertain how I will do in the half on Labor Day — it took me a while to get warmed up and get moving, but I felt stronger than I have in a while. Thumbs up.<br />
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Splits from last night:</div>
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<b>5 miles</b></div>
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10:07</div>
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9:20</div>
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8:57</div>
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8:18</div>
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7:57</div>
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A good run and positive thoughts.</div>
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Hills tonight.<br />
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running to mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615071273718618942noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3065999553990569170.post-40911428946413550972014-08-18T07:36:00.000-05:002014-08-21T08:23:01.154-05:00Change of Pace<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/a/alberteins133991.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUcX1cvDY-8ql-d4-dxiosKTpBYt5iO1rBgL5YBXPaLoo0vb21Hzc2EPunZ5veFKiWqXMSRsVQsyS9PKOU-120vzGh_1FUJ9hJbKi66ShQ5I4W9z2nb4fVcAHKYPQute_dkgEXb2HiNM4/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-08-18+at+7.14.06+AM.png" height="130" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Last week:</b> 17 total miles</div>
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<b>Saturday:</b> 12 miles</div>
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It took everything not to run this week. I had to push the self appointed guilt out of my head and not run.</div>
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What, you say?? Not run?!</div>
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<span style="font-size: 15px;">As you know I've had a laundry list of ups and downs since April. I'm giving myself an </span><span style="font-size: large;">A</span><span style="font-size: 15px;"> for effort — pushing through some miserable runs and </span><i style="font-size: 15px;">getting it done</i><span style="font-size: 15px;">. The passion was zapped away by the frustration that was building inside me from one crummy-feeling run after another. I asked myself, <i>why am I doing this?</i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Josefin Sans'; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">So a few weeks ago when my kids told me we eat dinner too late, I knew I needed to make some changes. </span><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Josefin Sans;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">My kids bicker and give each other a hard time about stuff that each complains about, but this time they were in full agreement which made me take notice. We usually eat dinner as a family and by the time I get home from work, run and make dinner it's 7:30.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Josefin Sans;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">I made a menu of dinners, shopped and cooked dinner each night. We've been eating by 6:30 and have so much time the rest of the night. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Josefin Sans;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">I've been walking the dog. It feels so laid back, unhurried.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Josefin Sans;"><span style="line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">Saturday, I ran 12 miles (with hills!) and felt great. </span><i><span style="font-size: large;">Rested, fresh</span></i><span style="font-size: 15px;">. It's been a while since I've enjoyed running.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Josefin Sans;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">And yesterday, I went for a bike ride!</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Josefin Sans;"><span style="line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">The last two weeks have been a reality check, a </span><i><span style="font-size: large;">reset</span></i><span style="font-size: 15px;"> of my routine as I know it. More changes to come :)</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Josefin Sans;"><span style="line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">Happy Monday!</span></span></span></div>
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running to mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615071273718618942noreply@blogger.com0