Sunday, January 30, 2011

January in Review

Today's 7 mile "long" run brought my January training to a close. Jenn and I managed to rock our run today even after she was running late because her youngest was up at 3AM with a fever. When we were running Jenn kept mentioning that she felt like we were running an 11:30-12:00 mile pace. The thing is I knew better. I was well aware that we were running much closer to 10:30 mile pace. See, Jenn had forgotten her Garmin so she had to rely on my Garmin for the stats for the day! I keep telling Jenn she is getting stronger and she just doesn't realize it! And truth be told I might have been pushing the pace to prove to Jenn that she could do it if she just believed in herself. 7 mile run done and confidence-boosting mission accomplished!!

January Stats
104-- running miles
12-- elliptical miles
116-- total miles
1 hour and 14 minutes-- rope skipping
150.8- weight as of January 30, 2011

Current 2011 Stats
104-- running miles
12-- elliptical miles
1hour and 14 minutes-- rope skipping
116 total miles

The first month of 2011 is in the books and today finished up week 3 of marathon training! I gotta feeling that February's gonna be a good month as well!

Keep running, you're simply the best, and you inspire me!!

Friday, January 28, 2011

I Gotta Feeling...

So, I am currently loving I Gotta Feeling by the Black Eyed Peas. In fact every single time it comes on my Ipod during a training run I actually catch myself smiling. I wonder if anyone else at the Y notices it when I bust out the cheesy grin?!? It is amazing how one simple song can put a little extra "pep" in your step and really help you crush a workout!

Today is my rest/cross training day. So far I have opted for my elliptical on cross training day. It seems to be working well for me. I usually put in a movie but I got to thinking and maybe I should throw on the Ipod to change it up. Perhaps I could use the music to my advantage and do an interval type workout. I also throw in a jump rope workout on cross training day. Obviously it would be a bit challenging to wear an Ipod while jumping rope!

What do you do on your cross training days?

TV or Ipod?

What's your favorite workout song right now? I need some more ideas for my playlist!

I Gotta Feeling that my cross training session is going to rock tonight!!

Keep running, you're simply the best, and you inspire me!!

Thursday, January 27, 2011

Thumbs Up Thursday...Amanda

This week's spotlight is on Amanda of 5 Miles Past Empty (here). After you read through her interview head on over and say hello! You will get to read a lot of great posts since Amanda is currently training for another triathlon. Check out her pictures from the Seattle Danskin Sprint Triathlon!!

Jodi: How long have you been running/swimming/biking?
Amanda: Wow, lets see...I have been running since I was a kid. I did track all through middle school and then added cross country in high school. I even got a cross country scholarship but turned it down. The college race distance is a 10k. I thought that was too far. HA! I'm kicking myself now. I stopped running for a while in college and then picked it back up when I joined the Air Force. I was always the pacer for PT tests. At that time we had to run two miles in 21 min. I told the others to just stay in front of me and they would be ok. I didn't start running road races until 2007 when we moved to Tacoma, WA. It was part of the culture! There were so many local races!! I haven't stopped since!

Swimming...I think I was meant to be a fish. I love the water. I taught myself how to swim when I was a kid. I was never on a swim team, our school was too small. I decided to become a lifeguard in 10th grade and and then I became a WSI Swim Instructor and a YMCA swim instructor. I have taught literally thousands of kids and adults to swim.

Biking has always been a weakness for me. I'm a chicken. I didn't start actually training on a bike until 2 weeks ago.

Jodi: Why did you start running/swimming/biking?
Amanda: Aside from running in HS for cool points and to get a letter for my letterman's jacket, in my adult life I started running to get back into shape after having my son. I needed to find myself, and get back to the ME that I knew I was. I was out of shape, soft, squishy, unhappy and miserable. It was also something that the hubs and I could do together. When my husband went on his first deployment is when I really started getting into it. I did a race every month, sometimes two, for 10 monhts while he was deployed. It has continued....

Jodi: How many years have you been racing?
Amanda: Almost 4 years! My first road race was April 2007, I Ran the Span 5k and my first tri was Sept 2008 Kirkland Sprint Tri.

Jodi: What is your favorite distance to race and why?
Amanda: This is tough but I think the half marathon. It is a challenging distance but yet I find that I can stay in half mary condition fairly easily. 10k is good too...I would say 13.1 with 6.2 a close second. Both give me time to get warmed up and get into a grove.

Jodi: What is your favorite race memory?
Amanda: The Oklahoma City Marathon, the enitre 26.2 miles. There was not a second that I wanted to quit. It was amazing. At the end I saw Jessica and my dad, the pride in my dad's eyes was priceless. I will remember that forever....

Jodi: What is your least favorite race memory?
Amanda: The Portland Marathon 2010. There were a few good things, like seeing Mel and Jill, my hubby my son and my dog, finishing with RED. But for the most part it was awful and I wanted to die. Just lay down and die. I was sopping wet, sore, miserable, tired, and I wanted a Mac Truck to put me out of my misery.

Jodi: What is your proudest running/swimming/biking moment to date?
Amanda: By far finishing the OKC Marathon in 4:09!! It was amazing! Other than that making a 1/2 marathon PR of 1:55 at the Seattle Rock n Roll last June.

Jodi: What one item do you absolutely have to have with you on a training run/swim/ride?
Amanda: Garmin 405. Without it I might as well not run. If it isn't logged electronically on my watch then it didn't happen.

Jodi: What is your favorite fuel during a race?
Amanda: Orange slices and GU chomps.

Jodi: What is your favorite post race snack?
Amanda: Pizza!

Jodi: Who do you admire most and why?
Amanda: This is a tough one. Can I say myself? Not to sound full of myself but I feel like I have done a lot and come through a lot in the past three years. I admire my determination, integrity and mostly I admire my resiliency. But, if I can't answer with myself then I would have to say I admire my Grandma. She has never met someone she didn't love, or who did not love her. She has never raised her voice. She is a picture of pure, honest, Rogerian care for others. I wish I could be as pure hearted as her.

Jodi: Do you have a favorite quote?
Amanda: I'm terrible at remembering things, quotes included...I just take the gist and go from there.

Jodi: Finish this statement, when I run/swim/bike I feel ______
Amanda: strong.

Jodi: What is your current goal?
Amanda: I really, REALLY want to get in the top 33% of my age group in the White Lake Half Iron Man to qualify for the Halfmax Half Iron in Myrtle Beach in Oct. Although that could throw a kink in my OBX full marathon training (in Nov). But, just completeing the half iron is a good goal too!
Thanks you so much for the opportunity to give you a Thumbs Up Amanda! Best of luck achieving your current goals!

Keep running, you're simply the best, and Amanda YOU inspire ME!!

Tuesday, January 25, 2011

Blisters and Peeling Skin...

So when I got home from Sunday's long run I realized I had developed a blood blister. See, my feet always get really cold when I am running so I chose to wear two pair of socks. I figured I would pick a blister over frostbite...bad idea perhaps! It was the most painful blister I have had in a long time. I planned to just be a rebel and pop it but while at the in-laws for dinner my sister-in-law mentioned that she had a great home remedy for blisters. I took the bait and asked her what she was speaking of. She told me to put clearasil (yes the white zit cream we used in bulk during our akward teenage years) and a band-aid on it and wait 24-48 hours and it would be gone. I admit I had my doubts but I decided to try it and guess what...yep, 24 hours after I applied the home remedy my blister was reduced by over 75% and this morning I have no blister to speak of.

This blister experience got me thinking about home remedies. Last week I had a really bad cold sore and my friend Deb told me to put A&D ointment on it (yes, diaper rash cream) and guess what...it worked...cold sore be gone!! Yesterday I was talking to one of my employees that is an avid hiker and she said her group swears by rubbing Vick's on their feet prior to a hike to prevent blisters.

Now moving on to my peeling skin dilemma. I have incredibly dry skin this time of year. Add in the fact that I need to wear a "ninja" mask when running in the tundra that is Ohio and we end up with a wet mask from breathing/sweating/freezing/melting and in turn the mask rubs the skin on my chin raw. Never in a million years did I think to put Body Glide on my chin but I am thinking I just may have to start. Anyone have other suggestions for this dilemma?

Oh, and sure enough I feel a new cold sore coming out...better bust out the A&D ointment when I get home.

So what home remedies do you have?

Keep running, you're simply the best, and you inspire me!!

Sunday, January 23, 2011

Marathon Training Week 2...Mission Accomplished

Today's 10 mile run brought week two of marathon training to an end. Overall, I had another great week! Let's hope there are 16 more great weeks ahead of me!

Monday- My favorite day of marathon training because it's a rest day. Of course we didn't have school on Monday so I didn't get any weight training (in the form of putting delivery trucks away) in.

Tuesday- My alarm went off at 4:30 AM for my 3 mile tempo run at the Y. Felt really good and enjoyed the run.

Wednesday- Once again the alarm sounded at 4:30 AM. Nice easy 5 mile run at the Y. Although, I didn't get the memo that it was "wear red to workout" day. It really was quite an entertaining conversation. You can read about it here. I loved the comments on my post that day! Everyone had such great perspectives on the issue! When I got to work a delivery truck was already there so I had a nice bonus session of "weight training" at 7 AM!

Thursday- For the third day in a row my alarm sounded at 4:30 AM. My brother stayed with us Wednesday night because he had a meeting on Thursday and our house was closer to his destination. After I woke him up and got him organized I headed down to the treadmill for my "hill" workout. 3 miles with two .25 mile "hills" mixed in. I was watching the end of The Bucket List and I had some trouble breathing during the cool down mile because the end of the movie is sad and I was trying not to cry. I wonder if watching sad movies while running is the key to oxygen deprivation training. LOL

Friday- Nice day of cross training. 30 minutes (2.5 miles) on the elliptical and 15 minutes of rope skipping!

Saturday- Headed down to the treadmill and ran a nice easy 5 miles while watching Fever Pitch.

Sunday- Last night the weather was calling for 12 degrees (feels like -3) for Jenn and I's 10 mile run today. Jenn texted me last night to see if I would rather run at 1:30PM instead of 6:45AM since it was going to be so cold. I had to text her back and tell her that it would have to be 6:45AM due to my schedule today. I didn't get to sleep until after 11:00 last night and when my alarm went off at 5:30AM I pressed snooze. I really wanted to stay in bed under the nice warm covers but I forced myself to get up because Jenn was counting on me to be there. I am so glad that Jenn and I do our long runs together because if I was running on my own today I would have gone back to sleep and would have had to force myself to get my 10 miles in on the treadmill later today. In the end, the weather wasn't all that bad. Once we got started we warmed up rather quickly. In fact Jenn took a layer off around mile 1. We had a great run today and managed to run 10:35 pace. Such a difference compared to our "lead leg" 11:26 pace 9 miler last Sunday.

Next week is a bit of a step back week. Jenn and I only have a 7 miler on tap for next Sunday. It's going to be so weird to be done so quickly. I have a feeling we are going to want to run further. However, we are two very smart women and we know well enough to respect the training!

Keep running, you're simply the best, and you inspire me!!

Thursday, January 20, 2011

Thumbs Up Thursday...Michel

This week's spotlight is on Michel of Baby Weight My Fat Ass (here). Once you read her interview head on over and say hello!
Jodi: How long have you been running?
Michel: I started running 2 years ago this month.

Jodi: Why did you start running?
Michel: I tried running a couple of years ago and never really got into it. I always felt silly when I ran and very self conscious about myself. Then I had a couple of kids and needed to change my life. My husband bought us a treadmill and I signed up for the Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle 8K and had about 9 weeks to go from Couch to 5K to 8K. It was rough but I did it in 1:14.
Jodi: How many years have you been racing?
Michel: Two years now and counting.

Jodi: What is your favorite distance to race and why?
Michel: Last year it was doing the half marathon. My first half was a horrible little race, my second one a week later was the Rock and Roll Half and it was a completely different experience and I really loved it.

Jodi: What is your favorite race memory?
Michel: First one was at the end of my first Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle as I was about to cross the finish line the announcer said, "Look you're not last, there's someone behind you!" Nice. Second one was just crossing the finish line at the Chicago Marathon last year.

Jodi: What is your least favorite race memory?
Michel: The last 12 miles of trying to get to the finish line at Chicago. I couldn't run anymore. I thought my tendons were going to snap. All the aid stations had shut down. I am forever grateful for my husband waiting for me at mile 19. He pushed/pulled me to finish line. I ached and every step I took hurt.

Jodi: What is your proudest running moment to date?
Michel: Doing the Chicago Marathon in honor of my Mom. I raised money for the American Heart Association because she died from complications of heart surgery. I thought about her every step of the way. I never wanted to quit. I thought about it but knew I couldn't do it.
Jodi: What one item do you absolutely have to have with you on a training run?
Michel: I did my training run's last year with a group and having the conversation was a good mood booster and helped push me. Normally when I run on a regular basis I have to have music. I almost always make a new play list for a race.

Jodi: What is your favorite fuel during a race?
Michel: GU Chomps and Powerade. I despise Cytomax at least the Lemonade. ugh. horrible.

Jodi: What is your favorite post race snack?
Michel: Taco Bell. Probably the reason I didn't lose weight training for the marathon last year. lol.

Jodi: Who do you admire most and why?
Michel: Deena Kastor. After watching her story in Spirit of the Marathon after I had done the Chicago Marathon and seeing her come back from a foot injury and win the Chicago Marathon was just amazing. Injuries are the suck and working through them the way she did was devotion.
Jodi: Do you have a favorite quote?
Michel: The only way to define your limits is to go beyond them.

Jodi: Finish this statement, when I run I feel___________.
Michel: like my own person.

Jodi: What is your current goal?
Michel: Stay healthy! Get a good running base, hopefully do a spring marathon, and go back to Chicago and get redemption. I came in very last for women at the marathon last year. I don't want to be last this year. I at least want to see someone take my picture crossing the finish line!

Jodi: Please feel free to add anything else you feel will help others lace up their shoes and get out there and run!!
Michel:
1. Believe in yourself. Ten years ago I would have never thought I could run thirty seconds much less a half marathon or do a marathon.

2. Sign up for a race to have a goal to work towards. Put up a training calendar in a visible area and mark off the days as you go. It holds you accountable when you can see your goal in black and white.

3. If you start to hurt, scale back what you are doing and get an opinion from a sports medicine doctor. If need be, get a second opinion.
Thanks again for the opportunity to give you a Thumbs Up Michel! Best of luck achieving your current goals!

Keep running, you're simply the best, and Michel YOU inspire ME!!

Wednesday, January 19, 2011

I Didn't Get The Memo...

The marathon schedule called for an easy 5 mile run today. Since I am not a fan of ice skating and my development was a sheet of ice I headed to the Y this morning to use the indoor track. I was ready and waiting for them to open the doors at 5AM and headed upstairs to the workout area. Once upstairs a fellow Y member says: "I'm glad everyone got the memo, well except for you, Jodi." It took me a second to realize what he was referring to. Turns out everyone was wearing red today except for me. Fellow Y member jokingly says, "no running for you since you are wearing gray not red." At this point the Y employee behind the desk became my new best friend when he said "hey now, I have seen that girl run 91 laps around this tiny track so I say she has earned the right to run in any color she wants." I smiled and thanked him and then off I went to run my 65 laps in my gray RNR Chicago 1/2 Marathon shirt and black running skirt. And if you were wondering, it was completely a coincidence that everyone was wearing red this morning..there was no memo!! :) It was just the right amount of comic relief to start a great day!

So, did you get the memo? Did you wear red to workout today?

Keep running, you're simply the best, and you inspire me!!

Sunday, January 16, 2011

Week One of Marathon Training Complete!

Well week one of marathon training is in the books! Overall, it was a pretty successful week.

Monday- First day of marathon training which also happened to be a rest day! You have to love starting your training by doing absolutely nothing! Of course I do put stock away at work so I suppose I could count that as a weight workout--most of the cases are close to 30lbs!

Tuesday- 3 mile tempo run on the indoor track at the Y! Think I got into the groove a little too much after my 9:30 warm-up mile. My plan was to run aroun 8:25 pace for my tempo miles however I ran them in 7:58 and 7:59 respectively. Go figure my overall pace of 8:28 for the three miles was quite close to my intended tempo pace.

Wednesday- Easy 5 miler on the treadmill while watching My Big Fat Greek Wedding...maybe if I put some windex on my legs they won't be sore!

Thursday- 3 miles with two .25 mile "hill repeats" on the treadmill. This was a tough one for me. I felt like I was going to fly off the back of the treadmill during the "hills". I followed the "hill workout" with 20 minutes of jump roping. My calves were definitely feeling the burn! I may want to reconsider which day I get my jump rope workout in!

Friday- Cross training day. 2.5 miles (30 minutes) on the elliptical while watching The Bucket List. Found this movie choice very appropriate since completing a marathon is on my bucket list.

Saturday- 5 miles on the indoor track at the Y. I was trying to run at a nice easy pace but I was in the groove and ended up running just under 9 minute mile pace. Oops!

Sunday- Today Jenn and I ran 9 miles. My legs (as well as Jenn's) felt like lead out there today. I don't know if it was a result of the increased intensity of the workouts this week or the snow on the trail or a combination of both but Jenn and I powered through those 9 miles. We didn't quit! It's these types of runs that are going to make us stronger in the end. There are no guarantees one of us won't have lead legs on marathon day so we knew we had to be strong and power through it. You have to be prepared for ANYTHING on race day!

Looking forward to week two of training and doing it all over again...well maybe minus the lead legs from today!!

Keep running, you're simply the best, and you inpsire me!!

Thursday, January 13, 2011

Thumbs Up Thursday...Rebecca

This week's spotlight is on Rebecca of A Girl Just Wants to Run and Have Fun (HERE). Once you read her interview head on over to her blog and say hello! I promise you won't be disappointed. The girl is a rock star!!

Jodi: How long have you been running?
Rebecca: I've been running since I was a freshman in high school. My first marathon was when I was 22, 10 years ago.

Jodi: Why did you start running?
Rebecca: I did this to get into shape for my true love (at the time)- soccer.

Jodi: How many years have you been racing?
Rebecca: I also did my first race when I was a freshman, so 18 years ago. (Wow, I'm getting old.)

Jodi: What is your favorite distance to race and why?
Rebecca: I love the marathon mostly b/c I love marathon training. I enjoy running long miles and the feeling you get afterwards. It takes guts and determination to race a marathon. It also takes planning and execution, two other things I am sorta of good at.

Jodi: What is your favorite race memory?
Rebecca: I have so many great racing memories. I will have to go back to my first marathon in 2002. My dad helped me train by riding his bike with me during my long runs. The marathon was the Louisville Marathon in KY. I had no time goals, just to finish. My dad was there on his bike for miles 8-18. Then he ran the rest with me. I remember him crying and telling me how proud he was of me, not just the running, but to be his daughter. At the finish my mom was there and she had bought me flowers. There's nothing like the accomplishment of finishing your first marathon.

Another great memory was winning the Spinx Marathon in SC. This was my 2nd marathon win, and after the race a man brought over his pre-teen daughter to meet me. He told me that he wanted his daughter to see that "real-looking" women could win marathons, too. The daughter told me that I was really pretty and that she liked my pink shirt.

Jodi: What is your least favorite race memory?
Rebecca: My least favorite memory is from the St. Louis Marathon. I was going through a lot of personal issues at the time and my heart wasn't in the race. Insult to injury, it POURED the entire race- 26.2 miles.

Jodi: What is your proudest running moment to date?
Rebecca: I have won a few marathons, so my first instinct tells me to choose one of those. But, actually, it's from the Seattle Marathon this past summer. I had quite a few life challenges this past year, but continued to train and run. I ran the Seattle Marathon in negative splits, without a watch, and hit a 3 minute PR. (That's a big one for me. Hahah.) More than that, it symbolized new beginnings for me and gave me hope that with God, you can overcome anything!

Jodi: What one item do you absolutely have to have with you on a training run?
Rebecca: Besides the basic running clothes, I HAVE to have a headband. I really love Girl In Motion Headbands, but have used others when in a bind. Other than that, I am pretty relaxed about my clothing, socks, shoes, and fuel.

Jodi: What is your favorite fuel during a race?
Rebecca: I usually only use Power Bar Gel, with my favorite flavor being Green Apple. I've *heard* it tastes like a green apple martini. I really dislike Hammer products. (Sorry, I do.)

Jodi: What is your favorite post race snack?
Rebecca: This is actually a meal, but I love eating pizza after a marathon. I had it after my first 2 marathons and it became ritual. I also like to have a beverage trifecta- gatorade, diet coke, coffee.

Jodi: Who do you admire most and why?
Rebecca: Katherine Switzer. I am so grateful that she had the courage to stand up for women's equality in the sport of running. Who knows where we would be without her bravery!

Jodi: Do you have a favorite quote?
Rebecca: "Desire is the key to motivation, but it's the determination and commitment to an unrelenting pursuit of your goal - a commitment to excellence - that will enable you to attain the success you seek."-- Mario Andretti

Jodi: Finish this statement, when I run I feel _______.
Rebecca: At peace.

Jodi: What is your current goal?
Rebecca: I am working on few running goals, but my biggest one is to break 3 hours in the marathon. My PR is 3:01:33. So, I'm getting closer! I am also working towards a marathon in every state, with 18 done so far.

Running holds a special place in my heart, not just because of the sport. Through running, I have had special life experiences that many will not have. I have met a LOT of incredible people. The times when I've lost hope, self-confidence, and general direction in life, running seems to be a way to clear my head and make things feel manageable.

If I had to give one piece of advice to new runners it would be to never put a cap on what you *think* you can achieve. After my first marathon in 4:09, I would've never believed that someday I would be trying to break 3 hours.


And because no Thumbs Up Thursday would be complete without photos...here you go!!

Kaiser

Seattle

Philly

Thanks again for the opportunity to give you a Thumbs Up Rebecca! Best of luck achieving your sub 3 hour marathon!

Keep running, you're simply the best, and Rebecca YOU inspire ME!!

Saturday, January 8, 2011

How Did the First Week of the New Year Shape Up?

Not too shabby if I do say so myself!!

Saturday, January 1, 2011
The house was returned to its pre-Christmas state.
Nice easy 5 mile run!

Sunday, January 2, 2011
First long run of 2011 with Jenn! We sported our ninja masks for 7 miles!

Monday, January 3, 2011
The kids and I returned to work/school after two weeks off.
30 minute rope skipping session!
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
3 mile run..sub 9 min/mile pace.
Monthly massage appointment!
Wendesday, January 5, 2011
Went to Dave and Buster's for dinner with friends. We had promised the kids over break but never got to it so we made up for it this week!
Nice easy 3 mile run!
Thursday, January 6, 2011
3 mile run with 2 sets of .25 mile "hills" mixed in!
Friday, January 7, 2011
45 minute interval workout on the elliptical which equated to 3.7 miles.
Dinner with the girls! We laughed so hard! It was great for the soul!!
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Much needed rest day!
Spending the day at ice skating lessons and a birthday party with the kids!
I am happy with what I accomplished this week. I also had more patience with my daughter during homework, didn't get upset about running a few miles less than I had planned, and I drank more water. Baby steps! Baby steps!
Looking forward to a snowy long run with Jenn tomorrow!
Keep running, you're simply the best, and you inspire me!!

Thursday, January 6, 2011

Thumbs Up Thursday...Jim

This week's spotlight is on Jim (here). After you read his amazing interview, stop on over to dailymile and send him some love!



Jodi: How long have you been running?
Jim: I began running again, after a 15 year hiatus, about 12 and a half months ago. I used to run a lot - at my peak 60 to 75 per week - between the ages of about 28 and 40 with my strongest running between 1986 and 1990. My PRs were 5-K at 20:07 (6:28/mile), 10-K at 42:39 (6:51/mile), half marathon 1:36:25 (7:21/mile) … Seems like a million years ago and I'll never see those times again so now I am establishing post-age 55 PRs. Weighed 167 to 175 pounds then and all my logs where handwritten. We used to stash fig newtons in plastic bags and water on the route of long runs the night before ... Last December I told my best friend and very supportive non-running wife, Patti, that I thought I'd start running again ... she said go for it and bought me a garmin 205 for Christmas. As I do 90 % of my running by myself, that garmin is my best running buddy on my training runs.

Jodi: Why did you start running?
Jim: To improve my health and to rediscover the joy of an activity that I used to really enjoy. A year ago December I weighed 238 pounds (down to 203 now) and while not totally inactive, I did not have a particularly athletic lifestyle going on at the time. I recently turned 56 and our youngest children, identical triplet daughters just turned 14 ... I intend to be around to meet their children. My Dad only met our oldest daughter, now 32, when she was very young.

Jodi: How many years have you been racing?
Jim: Racing was not real big back when I used to run ... usually a 10-K or two, maybe a local 5-K and a marathon or two a year (though in 1990 I did start and complete 5 marathons in a year and 3 in six weeks). The last few years of my prior running days, relay races covering 80 to 100 miles where each runner run 3 or 4 legs started to become popular. Last year I ran 7 races and so far this year I ran one ... I intend to run races often - at least once per month – trying new distances and locales, knowing that not every race will be a PR but that every race should be fun and a step forward.

Jodi: What is your favorite distance to race and why?
Jim: Historically it has been the marathon but as I enter this post-55 era of running I believe I will run more half marathons than full marathons. I never have been particularly fast but I am strong and determined so I can train better for duration. The growth of the half marathon races since I used to run really surprises me. Truthfully I enjoy the camaraderie that you can develop with other runners both training for and running with during longer races more then the sort of sprint feeling you have participating in 5 and 10-K races.

Jodi: What is your favorite race memory?
Jim: Two finishes in the Chicago Marathon are at the top of my list: 1986- finished my first marathon ever ... a feeling no one can ever take away as you well know. The other 1990 when I set my PR at 3:28:10 (7:56/mile). In my current phase of running finishing the MDI marathon this past October was an amazing feeling - even if it was my slowest ever at 4:35:30 (10:31/mile) - it was a hard hilly course and I was proud to come back that far in 10 months. Also made some wonderful friends from that race.
Jodi: What is your least favorite race memory?
Jim: In the "old" days it was the inaugural Disney Marathon on 1/1/1994 ... finished the race and quit running not long after that for a long time. In my current phase of running I was at Smuttynose this fall having run the half marathon and I was watching other DM runners finish the marathon. Three of them went out together to BQ and two made it while one missed by about 33 seconds. I was crushed for him but he is such a strong person he bounced back amazingly well.

Jodi: What is your proudest running moment to date?
Jim: I would have to say by far it was finishing the MDI marathon. I also am proud that I accomplished my goal of running at least 1,200 miles in 2010 by running slightly over 1,800 miles.

Jodi: What one item do you absolutely have to have with you on a training run?
Jim: My garmin 205 is my real running buddy and I have to take fluids if I am going more then 6 to 8 miles. I nearly always have my MP3 playing music on training runs, though I often turn it off when I'm running by the ocean, or in the woods.

Jodi: What is your favorite fuel during a race?
Jim: CLIF Shot Bloks energy chews ... Margarita +3X Sodium (I lose a lot of water weight).

Jodi: What is your favorite post race snack?
Jim: Beer

Jodi: Who do you admire most and why?
Jim: In life, my wife. She is the glue that keeps my wonderful family on track and she is somehow there for everyone. I can't imagine life without her. In running, like you, I truly admire and respect Joe Marruchella whose running and writing is tremendous and who never seems to busy to share a thought, praise a workout, provide inspiration or recognize and correct a wrong. Bob Kujawski is another gifted athlete who works hard and is generous with his spirit and and his time. Never personally met either one of them but they have both been very helpful and inspirational to me in this comeback. It is on my bucket list to look them both in the eye some day and say, "Thank you!"

Jodi: Do you have a favorite quote?
Jim: I actually have two favorite quotes which I have repeated several times. As a Bear fan I grew up with Mike Dikta who said, "Success isn't measured by money or power or social rank. Success is measured by your discipline and inner peace." The other quote is from Vince Lombardi, probably the best football coach of all time. "Winning is not a sometime thing; it's an all time thing. You don't win once in a while, you don't do things right once in a while, you do them right all the time. Winning is habit. Unfortunately, so is losing."

Jodi: Finish this statement, when I run I feel___________.
Jim: A sense of fulfillment about 90% of the time. Not every run is a great run, but I appreciate the fact I can still get out there and run, which is great.

Jodi: What is your current goal?
Jim: Ironic that you ask this as I am finishing my "running related goals for 2011 this week". Overall I continue to seek, find and relish the joy of a healthy lifestyle built around running. Establish, foster and maintain positive relationships – both virtual and in person – encouraging others in their respective pursuits and taking the time to learn and appreciate different approaches from others to improve my results. Focus on remaining as injury free as possible – and to that end, increase non-running, cross training activities such as stretching, rolling, yoga, stability ball, core work and, to a limited degree, strength workouts. Accomplish this in a manner that is the least intrusive into my family’s life yet also in a manner that continues to set a positive role model for family and friends.

Specific to running … Run at least 2,011 miles in 2011. Complete 2 marathons and improve my post-55 PR (currently 4:35:30). Complete the Run for Beer series of races having fun and earning a jacket. Complete at least 4 half marathons and get a sub 2 hour result this year (current post-50 PR is 2:02:27) with an A+ goal of breaking 1:55. Run races often - at least once per month – trying new distances and locales, knowing that not every race will be a PR but that every race should be fun and a step forward.
Long-term - I plan to keep on running until the sands of time run out ...

Other thought: As a runner who runs alone most of the time, the Daily Mile has been a wonderful resource serving as a log, a motivational tool, place to meet people and exchange ideas, encourage others. It can get a tad overwhelming at times but its positives have far outweighed its negatives - and the real negative is the time it sometimes takes to stay current with other people versus other time commitments - such as working out. I owe a great deal of my success to the knowledge and encouragement from my friends on Daily Mile.

Mentoring or helping another runner reach her or his goal is wonderful. You did it this year with Jenn ... I have done it in the past and hope to do so long distance with a brother-in-law. Though we live hundreds of miles apart we will train and exchange notes before running a marathon together where he hopes to beat Oprah's time in what will be his third attempt..
Thanks again for the opportunity to give you a Thumbs Up Jim! Best of luck in achieving your many goals!
Keep running, you're simply the best, and Jim YOU inspire ME!!

Sunday, January 2, 2011

Everybody Was Kung Fu Fighting....

Oh wait....that's just a song and a fun one to run to I might add. Jenn and I weren't kung fu fighting but we certainly rocked the ninja look today on our first long run of 2011!

The plan was to meet Jenn at the Metroparks at 7 AM for our 7 mile run. I got there a few minutes before Jenn and I turned my truck off at first and then decided I wanted to have the heat back on. Only problem, I turned the key and NOTHING!! Yep, dead battery. So I had to call my hubby at 7 AM and wake him up to tell him the battery died. Jenn and I headed out on our long run. Jenn forgot her music so I left mine behind as well. Great decision! We talked the entire time! It was great. As we were heading back towards the cars, we passed fellow dailymiler Bill and we exchanged our hellos. Jenn and I make it a point to go a mile further than we intend to run so we can walk a mile cool down at the end. Today we decided perhaps maybe we should only do a 1/2 mile cool down walk when it is this cold. As we were walking back, Bill passed us again and I mentioned my broken car...dead battery. He said he had cables and he was kind enough to wait until we returned to see if he could help. In the end, the hubby and kids were there with cables. However, the fact that I fellow runner would wait to be sure we were safe speaks volumes about the running community! Thanks again Bill!

Keep running, you're simply the best, and you inspire me!!

Saturday, January 1, 2011

Reflections of 2010 and Goals for 2011

2010 was a year filled with many great adventures! Since a picture is worth a thousand words, I give you the year 2010 in photos!!

January 16, 2010- Grandma turns 80!

January 31, 2010- my first marathon training long run..it was cold!!

February 14, 2010- my 14 miler next to a frozen Lake Erie!

February 26, 2010- Awards Ceremony...see I'm not always in running clothes!!

March 7, 2010- Cuz Michele and I run the Mill Creek 1/2 Marathon....we coined it the "worst course ever".

April 18, 2010- Cuz Michele and I finish our longest training run before the marathon...22.2 miles!!


May 16, 2010- Curing Chordoma one mile at a time! The Cleveland Marathon!!

Deb's our survivor! 10 years tumor free!

My first ever DNF (did not finish).

June 20, 2010- Girls With Sole 5K-- my comeback race. Landed myself a 3rd place age group award!!

July 4, 2010- Smiles For Sophie 5K

August 1, 2010- The Chicago Rock 'N Roll 1/2 Marathon. Enjoyed a great girl's weekend and got to meet up with a few amazing bloggie friends!!



August 14, 2010- Family Reunion- see I told you I don't always wear running clothes!!

August 21, 2010- Run With the Big Dogs 5K- Battling my brother for the family championship. He still wears the belt.

September 12, 2010- The River Run 1/2 Marathon- I managed to pace Jenn to a killer PR! She was a rock star that day!!!

September 25, 2010- Voice for Recovery 5K- I set a new PR, got 1st in my age group, and placed 3rd female overall!!

October 17, 2010- The Detroit Free Press 1/2 Marathon- I set a 3 minute PR thanks to the fine training schedule created for me by Joe!! Thanks again Joe!!

October 24, 2010- Skeleton Run 5K- I placed 2nd in my age group while running in full costume.
November 21, 2010- Jenn and I ran the Cleveland Fall Classic 1/2 Marathon for fun! We met Angie along the way!
November 24, 2010- Visited Christmas Land and Family in PA. I didn't run a single step the entire week and I wouldn't change it for the world!!

November 27, 2010- The kids and I went to Ford Field to watch our cousin in the high school state championships! We got to see family we rarely get to see, including one of my favorite cousins, Trinity!!

December 4, 2010- Jenn, Kaelynn, and I did the Reindeer Run 5K and had a blast!!

December 24, 2010- We had 23 family and friends over to end 2010 on a fantastic note!!

Looking ahead to 2011! Marathon training starts in 9 days and I am very excited!!
2011 Goals
1. Cross the finish line of the 2011 Cleveland Marathon upright and smiling with a little help from my friends.
2. Run a minimum of two half marathons.
3. Cross train once a week.
4. Do a jump rope work out once a week.
5. Run 1,500 miles.
I may add more goals as the year progresses but as of right now these are my top 5!
Keep running, you're simply the best, and you inspire me!!