Inland Trail Marathon Race Report

So after my less than stellar showing at The Erie Marathon in September, I did some research to see if there were any additional marathons I could run before the end of the year.  I was still wanting that sub 4 finish and felt like I had another marathon left in me.  I did secretly ask a friend her thoughts about my ability to run another marathon just a little over 6 weeks after Erie and left it at that.  Well fast forward a couple days and long story short, I ended up with a free entry to the race with the option of turning at the half marathon point if I so desired.  I liked this plan because it really became a no pressure race that very few people knew I was doing.  I truly did approach the race as a "Sunday long run" and not a race.  The bonus with this is that I had zero pre-race nerves or anxiety.  I was just out to enjoy the beautiful scenery on a lovely fall day in Ohio.  Since this was a very small marathon (52 finishers in the full), I was able to pick up my packet race morning.  As I am heading to find a spot to put my timing chip on my shoe, a woman calls out my name and of course I look at her and have to admit I have no idea who she is.  Within the first few seconds of talking with her I realized that I did in fact know her through a friend that I work with and remembered that her name was Colleen.  We chatted a bit and she asked me what my goal time was.  I told her while I would love to run a PR (who wouldn't?), I just wanted to run a smart race, listen and respond to my body and be happy with my finish.  One of my Sunday morning running buddies, Emily, was also there as her husband was running the half so I talked to her for a few minutes as well.  Colleen and I parted ways with Emily and headed outside to the start line.  As we were waiting I realized that I had forgotten to grab my sunglasses from the car and asked Colleen if she thought I had time to run and get them.  Her thought was that I didn't.  As luck would have it though, there was a small mess up with day of registrants and the start was delayed by a few minutes.  At this point, I saw Emily and I asked her if she thought I could get them and she indicated that she thought I had time.  I am happy to say that I was able to get them and return to the start line with a few minutes to spare before we were off and running.  I am so glad I chanced it because the sun was definitely present the entire 26.2 miles.  With minimal fan fare, the race started and so began my "Sunday long run".  I think a lot of people were excited as it seemed everyone went out incredibly fast, myself included.  I tried to slow myself down but it wasn't working which was evident by my 8:31 split for the first mile.  It was nice to see Emily a few times on the course as she was out cheering for her husband so I got bonus cheers from her!  I think it was around mile three or four that I came upon another runner and we started chatting.  I mentioned to her that she looked familiar and she mentioned that she was from Michigan.  It turned out that I didn't know her but we ran together until the 1/2 marathon point when she pulled away from me.  I never did catch her name.  I do know she was trying to qualify for Boston and needed a 4:10.  I do not know if she got her Boston time for sure.  All I know is that she did finish ahead of me so there is a very good chance that she did.  I was feeling very good and was glad to be able to high five Colleen as she was headed back after making the turn for the half marathon.  I can tell you that when I got to the half marathon turn, I didn't even consider it and kept on moving forward.  This was a success for me after Erie.  I wanted to leave the course after the first 1/2 at Erie!  I had taken a gel around mile 7 and it really did increase my energy.  When I got to the half marathon point on Sunday my time was 1:58.  I was feeling like I needed to take in another gel so I went ahead and took small sips of the gel throughout mile 14.  I did slow down a bit to make sure I also got an adequate amount of water with the gel.  I was definitely starting to feel the miles adding up and taking their toll on my body.  Upon getting to mile 18 my calves thought it would be fun to start locking up.  Instead of freaking out and getting upset, I slowed to a walk to get my calves to start to cooperate.  I had to do a run/walk several different times between miles 18-22.  I just went with the 3/1 ratio that seems to work for me.  I also took the time to enjoy the beauty of the trail at this point and snapped a few photos.

At the water stop around mile 22 I stopped because the pain in my calves was increasing.  The volunteers asked if I was okay and I mentioned that my calves were bothering me and they offered me vasoline which I found very odd.  I declined because luckily I always carry sample size biofreeze in my water belt.  I used the biofreeze and continued on my way.  Around mile 24 I came across a young man with his race number in his hand with his head down.  As I went by him he asked how I was and then I asked him the same question.  He said he was okay but he underestimated the marathon and said he should have just stuck with the half.  I ran with him for a bit and learned that he was from Toledo.  He eventually slowed to a walk and I continued on without him.  Maybe a 1/2 mile after leaving my new found Toledo friend, I came across another runner and we joined running forces so to speak.  We were both having issues with muscle cramping so we ran/walked the last part of the race together.  In the short time we were together I learned that she was from Columbus.  As we made the final turn I saw one of my good friends, that helps put on the race, and I mentioned to him that I felt like I was dying.  He said he knew but I should just hang in there because the finish was very close.  In the end I crossed the mat in 4:31:43 with a smile.  While this was by no means a PR, it was my second fastest marathon time and I finished 21 minutes faster than I did in Erie.  I really believe other than starting out too fast, I ran a smart race.  I listened and responded to my body as needed and got myself to another 26.2 finish line!  I didn't achieve my goal of a sub-4 marathon this year but I still feel that my mission was accomplished on Sunday.  I had a plan and I stuck to it and even had a great time doing it!  Oh and by the way, my Toledo friend did finish with a smile on his face!

Where do I go from here?  I would like to run at least one more half before the end of the year but I will have to wait and see if it fits into schedule or not.  Also, a few weeks ago, Emily asked me if I would consider running the Cleveland full with her in May.  At this point, I am leaning a little more towards yes but I haven't made a final decision yet.  We all know my history with the Cleveland full and to be quite honest, it scares me a bit!

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

October in Review

My 7 mile "Time of Day Tuesday" run brought my October running to a close.  I was originally going to run today but the neighbors I was planning to meet decided to cancel this morning due to the weather which I was perfectly fine with. There's always tomorrow!

The October Details

October 2013 stats
122.92-- running miles
0-- spin miles
0-- jump rope fitness workouts
0-- core fitness workout
0-- Pure Barre classes
0-- Fitness App workout
0-- walking miles
122.92-- total miles

Current 2013 stats
1188.11-- running miles
67-- spin miles (3 classes)
19-- jump rope fitness workouts
1-- core fitness workout
12-- Pure Barre classes
1-- Fitness App workout
9.69-- walking miles
1,264.80-- total miles

2013 "to do list" check-in

2013 Running Goals
1. First and foremost 26.2 under 4 hours--enough said
-The best laid plans....a rough race and a finish time of 4:52....fail.....




2. Achieve a second sub 1:50 half marathon so I can remove the asterick from my current sub 1:50 PR
-I did run the RNR Cleveland 1/2 this month but sub 1:50 wasn't achieved there.  I am not sure that the opportunity to achieve this goal will present itself before the end of the year but I'm not counting it out just yet...




2013 Mini Running Challenges
1. Run 100 miles per month
-122.92 miles run in October.  Mission accomplished!
2. Run 1300 miles for the year
-111.89 miles to go to complete this challenge.

2013 Non-Running Mini Challenges
1. Cross-train at least twice a week
-Partial success and partial fail.  I did successfully complete the 30 day wall sit challenge this month.  In total I spent approximately 46 minutes "sitting on the wall" in October.  I didn't do any other cross-training during the month though.

2. Complete a jump rope workout every day
-Not a single jump rope workout completed. And...the trend continues...
3. Drink 50 ounces of water per day (based on my current weight, this is my daily water intake need)
-Done and done well.
4. Take my vitamins daily
-Vitamin taken every single day in October.
5. Continue to choose and cook healthier foods
-16 meals made in October.  I am very pleased with this one!
6. Learn to swim...better luck this year
-Ummmm.......yeah.......ummmm
October was great overall.  I enjoyed "time of day Tuesday", running for the "love of the run" and mixing in hills during my Sunday morning runs with the girls (and sometimes boys).

Amazing sunrise at the top of one of the hills during  my last long run for the month of October

Hill running with the girls (and boys)

The beauty that is the Metroparks

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

April in Review

A nice, easy four mile run yesterday brought my April training to a close.

The April Details

April 2013 stats
89.55-- running miles
0-- spin miles
0-- jump rope fitness workouts
0-- core fitness workout
4-- Pure Barre classes
0-- Fitness App workout
89.55-- total miles

Current 2013 stats
336.56-- running miles
67-- spin miles (3 classes)
19-- jump rope fitness workouts
1-- core fitness workout
12-- Pure Barre classes
1-- Fitness App workout
403.56-- total miles

2013 "to do list" check-in

2013 Running Goals
1. First and foremost 26.2 under 4 hours--enough said
-As of April 30, I have determined that this will occur in the fall.

2. Achieve a second sub 1:50 so I can remove the asterick from my current sub 1:50 PR
-I didn't run any 1/2 marathons this month so the opportunity to break 1:50 didn't present itself.  There are more 1/2 marathons to come though so I will have my game face on.

2013 Mini Running Challenges
1. Run 100 miles per month
-89.55 miles run in April.  I came much closer this month.  I spent a mommy and me weekend with my daughter for her first out of state figure skating competition which resulted in me not running a single step this past weekend.  I would sacrifice 100 miles again just to see her doing what she loves.  I would also sacrifice 100 miles to watch my son in Kung Fu as that is his passion.

Kaelynn placed 4th out of a group of 8 strong competitors

Grant setting up for a round house kick

2. Run 1300 miles for the year

-963.44 miles to go to complete this challenge.

2013 Non-Running Mini Challenges
1. Cross-train at least twice a week
-I can't say I did great in this area this month.  However, I did do 4 Pure Barre classes which is more than I did last month.
2. Complete a jump rope workout every day
-Not a single jump rope workout completed.  This seems to be a trend...
3. Drink 50 ounces of water per day (based on my current weight, this is my daily water intake need)
-I'm good with this one for the most part.  I may have missed my mark a little this past weekend when I was out of town.  I am back on track though.
4. Take my vitamins daily
-Somehow I managed to forget to take my vitamin twice in April.  I am still pleased with my consistency in this area because in the past I would have forgotten ever other day!
5. Continue to choose and cook healthier foods
-14 meals made in April.  I am happy with this.
6. Learn to swim...better luck this year
-Once again, second verse same as the first. We all know this one is a thorn in my side. I have done extensive research in regards to swim lessons. I just need to figure out what will fit my schedule and make the commitment.

Overall I am happy with my April.  I also can't believe tomorrow is May 1.  Where does the time go?

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

For Boston

I am still in shock over the events that took place on Monday.  I had every intention of an epic workout Monday afternoon inspired by my friends successes at Boston.  How quickly that run turned into prayer and meditation with zero concern for my pace or distance.  I am a runner and I did what I know how to do...run.

2011 Columbus Marathon

When I picked my daughter up from her ice skating lessons yesterday afternoon she asked me what the definition of a limb was.  I knew exactly where this was going.  She had questions because other kids were talking about it at school.  All she knew prior to going to school yesterday was that there had been explosions in Boston on Monday.  We had a short coversation about the events on Monday and I answered her questions the best I could.  Fast forward to later in the evening and I mentioned that I was going to head out for a run and my daughter asked if I was going to run for Boston.  My reply was simply yes.  I had decided to run 4 miles 4 Boston so I headed out for a pace run with the intent to run the BQ pace for my age group (8:23) for those affected by the senseless tragedy on Monday.  I passed several people during my run and every last one of them gave a wave, a head nod, or a hello.  It was as if they were saying, we understand and we know what you are doing.  I ran that 4 miles with a heavy heart and swift feet.

4 Miles 4 Boston

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

December in Review

When I was creating this post several hours ago my phone rang and it was Nikki asking me if I wanted to go running. At first I told her no because I had already showered. Minutes after hanging up the phone with her I knew I had to call her back and change my mind. I mean, seriously it's 50+ degrees on December 31 in OHIO!!! So the kids and I headed to the local track and Nikki and I did a combination of running/walking/sprinting for 3 miles while the kids played on the football field. So glad I changed my mind! It felt great to get out there today!

Now even though I ended up with my lowest mileage month since I started running again in February 2009, I was still sucessful in maintaining my fitness level through my Daily Challenge!

December Stats
33.5-- running miles
2.5-- elliptical miles
0-- bike miles
36-- total miles
150.4- weight as of December 31, 2010

Current 2010 Stats
1,099-- running miles
55.4-- elliptical miles
5.1-- bike miles
1, 159.5-- total miles


All things considered, I am happy with my December. I ran 34 miles, did 2.5 miles on the elliptical and completed all 31 days of my Daily Challenge to the tune of 496 sit ups, 496 push ups, 496 dips, 496 squats, and 496 minutes of jump rope and 10 "boy" push ups today! I am quite certain my December workouts had a little something to do with the numbers on the scale today! I am down to 150.4 from 152.2 on November 30. I would say that is very impressive considering I managed to drop weight during the Christmas season when a lot of excess eating took place!


Marathon training starts in ten days. I am looking forward to training with Jenn! I have a bit of unfinished business with a little thing called 26.2. I will cross that finish line in 2011 upright and smiling with a little help from my friends!!

I will be back this weekend with my year in review post!

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

Christmas 2010

Christmas 2010 was very successful. It has been a great few days for us! The festivities started at our house on Christmas Eve. We had 23 friends and family over for dinner! Over a dozen of the people in attendance were children. Nothing like experiencing the Christmas Magic through the eyes of a child!

Looks like Santa came back after the kids were fast asleep and worked his magic!

Kaelynn and Grant were very excited and were up at 5:30 letting us know that Santa had in fact made it to our house!

Kaelynn was so excited to find a digital camera in her stocking. She loves taking pictures so she asked Santa for a camera of her own!

Grant was very excited about his Mario pajamas that he had asked Santa for!

After all the presents were opened and breakfast was served it was time to pack for PA! The original plan was to be on the road by 10:00 AM. We were out the door just before 10:30 AM. Not too bad in my book! Yesterday was the first time in over 8 years that we have been home on Christmas Day. I am pretty sure it was the best Christmas present my mom has ever received. Although she was very excited about the Zumba for the Wii we purchased for her as well!

The grandkids were spoiled as usual. Here they are with the stockings their Pop Pop made for them! Doesn't he do amazing work?

The afternoon was spent visiting with aunts and uncles and eating way too much food. I am pretty sure my mom and stepdad thought they were cooking for an army but the food was fantastic as usual! Later in the evening one of my best friends and her family came over and the kids continued to eat more. Oh the fun you can have with a mint chocolate chip drumstick. Grant was not real happy with the camera by last night which is quite evident in this picture!

We finally headed to bed sometime after 10:30 last night. The good news is the kids slept in which enabled the parents/grandparents to get a little extra shut eye as well. So what does one do the day after Christmas? Well a little bit of this:

and if you have committed to a Daily Challenge...a little bit of this!

Yes, I am in fact jumping rope with no shoes on. My hubby decided it would be funny to take my picture during my 26 minute rope skipping session. I would have looked at the camera but my mom insisted on talking to me the entire time. The good news is talking with mom made the time go pretty fast!

Aside from my workout, I have spent the entire day in my pajamas as have the kids and we have loved every minute of it!

On a completely different note, marathon training starts in 15 days and I am seriously looking forward to it. It will be nice to have a structured workout schedule again. It has been nice winging it these past two months but I have to admit I love routine! It's just my style!

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

Thumbs Up Thursdsay...Julie Reardon

This weeks Thumbs Up goes to Julie Reardon. When I contacted Julie, via the dailymile to see if she would be willing to allow me to give her a thumbs up, she was hesitant stating: "I'm not sure I'm worthy". My response to her was "Everyone is worthy!!! It's all about that fact that you got out there and started something and have goals! :)" Without further delay, I give you the question and answer portion of Thumbs Up Thursday!


Jodi: How long have you been running?
Julie: I started in high school and have had 24 years of stops and starts along the way but have been running consistently now for just over 3 years.

Jodi: What motivated you to start running?
Julie: My dad, he had been a runner since I was born. I went to Magnificat High School and was just mediocre at most sports and did not want to be sitting on the sidelines watching. So my dad convinced me to go out for cross country. I quit after the first day of practice my freshman year when I couldn't keep up. My dad was a regular in the Cleveland Revco 10k, so I trained with him and we did the race together in May 1986. I went out for cross country again my sophomore year and had a blast running all through high school.

Jodi: What motivates you to continue running?
Julie: That's a tough one and it has changed many times over the years. But at this time it is my brother Bill. He started running about 10 years ago and started doing many half marathons. I enjoyed hearing his stories so much that I wanted to join him and I did, completing my first, the Akron Half in September of 2007 (still my PR in a half). This year I did the Cleveland Half Marathon while Bill and my little brother Brad did the full marathon. It was so fun to share the experience with them.

Bill, Julie, and Brad after the 2010 Cleveland Marathon

Jodi: How long have you been racing?

Julie: Well with the Revco 10k being my first it has been 24 years. I love racing! It keeps me motivated!

Jodi: What is your favorite distance to race and why?

Julie: I'm not sure I have a favorite distance. I probably do the most 5k's as there are so many offered but I think I would prefer a 5 miler or 10k. I think it takes me some time to find my best pace and usually that is when a 5k is ending. I know it is not ideal but I usually end up starting out too fast and then I catch my breath by mile 2.5 or 3. In a longer race I can pick up my pace for the next 2-3 miles and finish stronger.

Jodi: What is your favorite race memory?

Julie: In the spring I participated in the Flying Pig Marathon Relay with my husband, Dennis, brother-in-law Breen, and sister-in-law, Mary Lou. It was Dennis' second race experience and Breen's first. It was so fun listening to their take on it and their will to do it again next year. Also, watching Dennis cross the finish line with all the full marathoners was just priceless.

Jodi: What is your proudest running moment to date?

Julie: Running the Flying Pig Half Marathon in 2009 for my friend Jen's son , John Owen and raising over $3,000 to help end Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

Julie with John Owen after the 2009 Flying Pig Half Marathon

Jodi: Do you have a favorite quote?
Julie: The race is not always to the swift but to those that keep on running. ~Author Unknown

Jodi: Do your kids like to run with you?
Julie: No, not really. My daughter has run with me a couple times but mostly she will ride her bike while I run. My youngest son is 5 and he is going to be a distance runner. When I say I'll race you to the end of the street, he'll pace himself so he can run the entire way unlike my other two that will sprint and walk and sprint some more.

Jodi: What is your favorite time of day to run?
Julie: The morning, I am not a morning person but if I don't get up and do it right away chances are I won't get to it.

Jodi: What is your current goal?
Julie: A marathon - probably Columbus this fall. My brother is doing it and I'd like to get one on my racing resume before I turn 40 next spring. Also, to complete a 5k in under 25 minutes.

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to give you a Thumbs Up Julie! Best of luck achieving your current goals. It is evident that you have the desire and determination to get it done!


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

Thumbs Up Thursday...Joe Marruchella

When I started thinking about who deserved a thumbs up this week, my thoughts immediately went to Joe. Afterall, if you remember, Joe had my back the day after my marathon attempt. He took it upon himself to head out on his lunch, on a scheduled rest day, and finish the last 1.2 miles for me and for my good friend Deb which can be seen in the picture he emailed me below!

I sent Joe an email asking him if he would do me the honor of allowing me to spotlight him this week. His response was "that would be so very cool and I am completely honored to be included on your blog". Without futher delay, the question and answer portion of Thumbs Up Thursday!

Jodi: How long have you been running?
Joe: I started running in March 2004, so just over six year now.

Jodi: What motivated you to start running?
Joe: At first I started running to shed a few of the pounds I had gained from working behind a desk and spending time on the road traveling for my job. I was not exercising and I wanted something that I could do whether I was at home or on the road to start exercising again. I started with a walk/run program of about 30 minutes at lunchtime and away I went. I was a marathoner 20 months later.

Jodi: How do you continue to stay motivated to run?
Joe: The motivation part for me is really two-fold. I run because I truly love it. I never knew that there was a distance runner trapped in my body for 36 years waiting to get out, but there was! I try to make sure that I have a goal to chase whether it was a major goal like qualifying for the Boston Marathon or a smaller goal, such as shaving a second or two off my training routes at home. Having those goals to chase really help keep me going. But last summer when my friend Dom was diagnosed with cancer, it really hit me hard. I realized in the blink of an eye just how precious life is and that you should embrace every day and every opportunity that life grants to us. There are a lot of days when I feel like I could mail in a run or skip one altogether, but Dom and his ongoing battle really keeps me focused on working hard every day to become a better runner, a better husband, and frankly a better person every day.

Jodi: How long have you been competing in races?
Joe: I've been racing since the fall of 2006.

Jodi: What is your favorite distance to race and why?
Joe: The marathon. If you asked me what is my most enjoyable distance I think I would choose the half, as it is not nearly as physically demanding as the marathon, but still a challenging distance that you have to train seriously for if you hope to do well. But for me, there is nothing like the marathon. The dedication level that is required as part of the training and preparation, the pageantry of the race itself, the physical test, as well as the mental challenge to push through exhaustion is truly life-affirming for me. That final .20 miles is among the greatest of life experiences.

Joe after the 3M Half Marathon January 2010

Jodi: How many marathons have you run?
Joe: I am a 5-time marathoner and proud member of the Marathon Maniacs!

Jodi: Which marathon course has been your favorite so far?
Joe: The Boston Marathon course from Hopkinton, MA to Boston is my favorite course for sure. The crowds make that experience one of a kind.

Jodi: What is your favorite race memory?
Joe: Wow, such a great question as all of the memories come flooding back to me- but if I had to pick just one as my favorite it would have to be mile 22 at the Pittsburgh Marathon in 2009. It was my Boston Qualifying race and I was 4 miles away from surpassing my goal of 3:19:59. I was running next to a young man for the better part of two miles and we started chatting about the race. He was chasing a Boston time also, but being 10 years younger than me he needed to run a sub 3:10:00 time and we were on pace for about 3:18:00. He was not going to make it and seemed to realize it as we were running alongside each other. Just as we passed the mile 22 water station, the Theme from Rocky came on my Ipod and he caught me grinning. I didn't want to celebrate too early as I still had 4 miles left- and I also did not want him to feel bad about not making his goal time as he was running an incredible race. He looked over at me and saw me smiling and asked: "What?" I told him that the Rocky Theme had just came on my headphones. We took about five strides and he looked me dead in the eye and said, "Dude....Can I listen?" It was all I could do not to laugh out loud and ruin my breathing---we ran together up through mile 25 when I pulled away from him a bit and finished with a time of 3:17:43. He was the first runner to congratulate me, as I was getting my finisher's medal, on qualifying for Boston. It was the first time I realized that I had really qualified for the Boston Marathon.
Joe at the top of Forbes Climb at the 2009 Pittsburgh Marathon

Jodi: How did you come up with the idea of "Run for Dom"?
Joe: At the Pittsburgh race in 2009 Dom was there for me to watch me chase my Boston time. At our post-race breakfast Dom was complaining of stomach issues that had been going on for a couple of months, but at age 38 who would of thought cancer? Two months later my wife and I got the call from Dom telling us about his condition and that the form of stomach cancer Dom had was very serious. He was going to have to fight very hard to survive. After reflecting for two days I went on a Sunday long run. 12 miles along the trail behind our home and around a lake that I run several times a week. I couldn't shake Dom from my thoughts and how I felt so powerless and helpless. I wanted to do something to help him and his family but couldn't quite figure out what. I kept thinking about the Pittsburgh Marathon in Dom's hometown and how much I wanted to return to that race in 2010 and run it for Dom. The race was only 13 days after the Boston Marathon however, a race that I had trained for more than a year to qualify. How could I not run Boston? As I made the turn at the bottom of the lake I thought to myself, why not both? Why not run both marathons as a way to raise awareness and hopefully money that would help Dom, his wife Val, his 3 year old daughter Sierra, and 3 month old (at the time) son Nico. Over the last 4 miles of the run I kept thinking about the goal of running two marathons in two weeks in honor of my good friend's battle with cancer. By the time I got home it was a done deal. I was going all in.
Joe and Dom with the Run for Dom shirt

Jodi: Who do you admire most and why?
Joe: Dom D'Eramo. He is the bravest, most courageous man I have ever met.

Jodi: What has been your proudest running moment to date?
Joe: I would have to say coming through the finish chute at this years Pittsburgh Marathon just 13 days after Boston. It was a very, very tough race for me in hot humid conditions. As good as the weather was at Boston, 47 degrees, no wind- it was tough at Pittsburgh. Rain for the entire race, winds 10-12 mph, 77 degrees and humid. But toughing out that second marathon and earning that finisher's medal to put around Dom's neck at the family reunion area was a highlight for me. It was not my fastest marathon as I ran 20 minutes slower than Boston and 25 minutes slower than Pittsburgh the year before- but it was without question my finest effort.

Joe and Dom after the 2010 Pittsburgh Marathon

Jodi: Do you have a favorite quote?
Joe: "To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift" -Steve Prefontaine

Jodi: What is your favorite post run meal?
Joe: I love breakfast foods -all kinds- but after a long run when I've burned 1,000 or more calories I crave sweet breakfast more than eggs and potatoes. For those times, my favorite are homemade waffles. Nothing better!

Jodi: Have you purchased that "jogging" stroller for the new baby yet?
Joe: We have not made the purchase yet, but it is on our registry at Babies R' Us! I am really hoping that the Bob w/ 12 inch aluminum wheels shows up at our door soon!

Jodi: What is your current goal?
Joe: Great timing with this question as I just went public with my latest goal of "Under 40:00 after 40". I am looking to post an official 10k race time of 39:39 this year at the age of 43. That time will get me a starting spot in the under 40:00 corral at this spring's Cooper River Bridge Run in Charleston, South Carolina. It is one of the largest 10k's in the United States with close to 40,000 runners. I will be training tough through the TX summer to hopefully hit that race time at the IBM Uptown Classic in Austin, October 17, 2010. That will mean running 6.2 miles at 6:26 pace. My 5k PR is 19:28 so it is possible- but I am going to work very hard this summer to get there.
Joe at the Congress Avenue Mile May 2010 where he ran a smoking 5:24!

Jodi: If you have anything else you would like to share with me, please feel free.
Joe: The only thing else I would like to share is to just thank everyone who got involved with Run for Dom this year as we were able to surpass our goal of raising $26.2K for the D'Eramo family to help defray some of the costs of Dom's surgeries and procedures. The outpouring of support and kind words is so appreciated- with more than 19,000 visits to http://joerunfordom.wordpress.com since November- it is amazing to me that so many people have opened up their hearts to Dom and his fight. I am eternally grateful for everyone that made Run for Dom such a success. From here forward I plan on continuing to run in honor of my good friend and hopefully help others discover our sport. It is a sport for everyone as no matter how long you have been running, how fast you run or how far, the only person we are truly competing with is ourselves.

I couldn't have said it better myself in regards to competing with ourselves. Stop on over to Joe's blog at http://joerunfordom.wordpress.com/ and I guarantee you will be inspired. Thank you for allowing me the honor and privilege of giving you a Thumbs Up Joe. What you have done for Dom and so many others is truly amazing. Continue to be proud of your accomplishments, enjoy the new baby, and good luck smashing your current goal of 39:59 in the 10k on October 17, 2010.

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

Thumbs Up Thursday..This one's for you Jenn....

Yesterday I was sitting here thinking about what I wanted to write about on my blog today and I couldn't help but feel like I wanted to share the story of my friend, and sorority sister, Jenn. So, I sent her a message to ask permission to share her story and she was more than agreeable, honored, I think was the word she used. So, with permission granted, I have instituted "Thumbs Up Thursday". Each Thursday, I will focus on the success of others.

This is Jenn in January 2009

photo credit: Jenn Davis
Jenn calls this photo "the wake up call that I needed to change something in my life". Jenn realized that she was turning to food to deal with her emotions and she knew she needed to change things so she could be happy and healthy for her family. Jenn started out trying to do different workouts at the gym. She enjoyed them but felt she needed something more and this is when her love for running was born. She started with the couch to 5K program and realized that she had a passion for running. She ran her first 5K on May 2, 2010 and finished it under 30 minutes. What an accomplishment. She loved running so much that she signed up for the 5K that was part of the Cleveland Marathon. Fast forward to the packet pick up for the 5K and Jenn realizes that she wants more and changes her entry from the 5K to the 10K! Jenn mentioned she was nervous but she successfully finished that race. Jenn has since run a few other races. I asked her if she was addicted (because we all know how addicting running can be) and she said yes and mentioned that she loves how she feels after a run and how she can clear her head out there and have a better day all around. I get it! She is currently training for a 1/2 marathon and has signed up for the Cleveland Marathon for next year! Jenn has mentioned to me on a few occassions that I inspire her but the truth is...Jenn inspires ME!! Her hard work and dedication amaze me each day and makes me realize we can do anything we set our mind to. Afterall, look how great she looks now in June 2010 (130 pounds lost)!


photo credit: Jenn Davis
Jenn has started a running blog of her own and I ask that you send some love, support, and good jobs her way! http://runjenn.blogspot.com/.
The best part of all of this is that we will be doing long runs together while training for the Cleveland Marathon. Jenn mentioned that she is excited and honored to run the marathon with me but again the truth is, I am honored that she would ask me to join her. There's a lot to be said for the bond between sisters! I am looking forward to crossing that finish line with her in May!
As you all know, I have a tag line that I end all of my blog posts with. Today, I am going to alter it just a little!
Keep running, you're simply the best, and Jenn, YOU inpsire ME!!

Looking Ahead to the Mill Creek 1/2 Marathon Distance Classic

I am very excited to be participating in the Mill Creek 1/2 two weeks from tomorrow. Although, I think I am even more excited to be running it with a long time friend, running buddy, and "cuz". I was checking out the Cleveland Marathon's website last month and found a link to let you check registrations. I decided to put in Pittsburgh, PA since it is one of the bigger cities close to where I grew up. As I was scrolling down I saw a very familiar name..Michele. Of course Michele is a very common name. Now the Michele "Cuz" I know is 33 so I checked and sure enough the one registered is 33. I headed to facebook to see if any of my high school friends kept in touch with her (did I mention that we went to high school together and ran on the track and cross country teams?). As luck would have it, one of my friends was friends with her on myspace. I found Michele through myspace and sent her a message. I found out through her return message that she is in fact running the Cleveland Marathon. It is her first marathon (mine too) and she doesn't want to walk at all (me either) and ideally she would like to finish in 4 hours (me too)! So we had been emailing back and forth and I mentioned that I wanted to run the Mill Creek 1/2 but I really wanted someone to run it with. Without hesitation she said, "I'm free that weekend, I will run it with you". By the next morning we were both registered! Michele and I will both be getting into Youngstown early in the afternoon the day before the race. We plan to pick up our race packets, carb load (of course), and just catch up on say I don't know....the last 15 years or so. I honestly don't believe we have seen each other since she graduated from high school. I graduated in 1992 but would go back when I was free from college obligations and help coach/train the teams. It's funny how things work out, isn't it? Needless to say, I will be in Youngstown in two weeks, camera in hand, catching up with a great friend, runner, and "cuz" and of course enjoying 13.1!

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

14 miles on the 14th day of the month

I woke up this morning to no snow and clear roads. Perfect for my long run today! Eating breakfast before heading out last weekend seemed to work well for me. With that in mind, I chose to have a few cups of coffee and some peanut butter toast and a banana before heading out around 10:00 AM. I knew today's run would be challenging because 14 miles would be my longest training run since college (and I will admit I stopped running my sophomore year of college at the age of 20 and I turn 36 this year). I went out at a nice easy pace knowing I had many miles to put in today. I don't know all of my mile splits because my Garmin was beeping at me and flashing "low memory" every few miles.

Mile 1-- 9:46

Fastest mile-- 9:12

Slowest mile-- 10:10

Mile 13.1-- 2:07.30

Finish Time-- 2:16.34

Avg mile-- 9:45

I had to stop at mile 12 and balance on one foot to get a rock out of my shoe. There was no way I could run the last 2 miles with that rock in my shoe. I must have looked crazy standing on one foot with my shoe off, shaking it like crazy to get the rock out. I wasn't the most graceful either, which I am sure was a direct reflection of the fact that I had just run 12 miles.

Here are some pictures I took today during my run. I did a 7 miles out and 7 miles back course today. The course started in Avon took me into Avon Lake and back to Avon.

Entering Avon Lake (mile 3)

Frozen Lake Erie (mile 7)

My finish time and distance on the Garmin

My post run fuels of choice (chocolate milk and a Monavie Active gel pack)

My weight after my run today (44 pounds lost since December of 2008)

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

Hills, Snow, and Rain Oh My!!

The kids and I headed out to PA this weekend for grandma's 80th surprise birthday party. It was great to have the family all together! The party was great and we were able to get a lot of pictures with grandma and her many children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren! I packed outside running clothes in the off chance that the weather would cooperate for today's long run. I was pleasantly surprised to wake up to nice weather (well if you would consider 37 degrees nice weather). I put on my Garmin and out the door I went. I was cold at first, but was comfortable within the first five minutes of the run. My plan was to run five miles out and five miles back to get in my ten miles. I maintained that plan until I hit hill number eight at mile four. I decided to turn onto another street which was going well until I encountered hill number nine at mile five and a gravel road with snow and ice all over it. Needless to say that section of the run was my slowest mile (10:54) because I had to run with great caution as to not slip on the snow and ice. Miles six through nine included three more hills. At mile nine the sky decided to rain on my parade and of course add another hill to my day! So it turns out I encountered thirteen hills during my ten mile run today.

Now a question for all of the marathon runners out there. How do you mentally prepare yourself for the other 16.2 miles? I was quite tired after my ten mile run today. The furthest I have ever run in the last year is 13.1 (Cleveland and Columbus Half Marathons). While training for the half marathon I would take water with me but nothing else. I only drank water during the half marathons as well. I chose to eat a piece of peanut butter toast before my run today and I think it helped fuel me. I have no idea what to do when running further distances. Any and all suggestions are greatly appreciated. Do I do the gel packs? Do I drink something besides water such as a sports drink? Any other tips?

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

Week 1 of training is in full swing!

As I mentioned in my previous post, I officially started training for the Cleveland Marathon this past Sunday. Sunday I completed an 8 mile run on the treadmill. Monday was my first day back to work after being off for 2 weeks so I was glad it was a day off from training. Tuesday afternoon I did a steady 3 mile run on the treadmill. I had my monthly massage appointment last night as well. While on the subject, I have a love/hate relationship with my massage therapist. He gives a great sports massage but he always seems to find sore spots. It never fails. I went in last night complaining of mild left shoulder pain when running. He was able to release the "hang up" on the shoulder (as he refers to it). After that he actually found sore spots in my hand of all places. Can I tell you how painful hand massage can be when they find a "hang up"? OUCH!! This is where the hate part of the relationship comes into play!! However, the love relationship came this morning when I woke up pain free with no muscle tightness. Gotta love that. Tonight I opted to cross train on the elliptical. I did 6.8 miles in 90 minutes. Not too bad. My feet did get numb once or twice but I was able to overcome that. Just takes some getting used to. Tomorrow calls for a 3 mile run and Friday a 5 mile run. Saturday is a rest day and that will complete week 1 of my marathon training. Believe it or not, I am actually looking forward to this challenge! Now, if it would just get a little warmer (less icy) out, I could get in a nice run outside. I miss running outside during the dead of winter!
Thank you for checking in and remember "you're simply the best" and "you inspire me".

Preparing for the official training to begin!

Well, Sunday will be day one of my official training schedule for the Cleveland Marathon. After watching the weather report last night for the next several days, I am thankful that my treadmill was delivered yesterday and that my elliptical is being delivered in the next hour. I have a feeling I will be doing a lot of my training for the marathon on said equipment. I made the mistake of running outside every single day (except one) last year while I was training for the Cleveland 1/2 Marathon. Of course running outside in the winter involved ice and in turn landed me with an injury that had me down for the count for two weeks (one of those weeks being on crutches). I ran 4 miles on the treadmill yesterday and it felt great. Thankfully there is a TV mounted on the wall in the basement or I may have been incredibly bored. Given the choice, I prefer to run outside but I will do what I need to do to stay healthy and injury free and if that means working out inside then so be it.

As I have mentioned before, I will be running the marathon in honor of my dear friend, Deb. The weekend of the marathon it will be ten years since she had a brain tumor removed. We are forming a team to raise money and awareness for brain tumor treatment and research in her name. Once I have the information about our team, I will post it on my blog so that others who are interested may join the team or make a donation!

I am continually amazed at the love I have found for running again! As of December 24, 2009, I have lost 40 pounds!

The first picture is from December 26, 2008 at a mini high school reunion with my friend, and fellow runner, Robert. I was 194 pounds in that picture. The second picture is from December 24, 2009 at my house on Christmas Eve with my dear friend, and running buddy, Deb. I was 154 pounds in that picture!

I WAS STRONG TODAY

Today was a scheduled tempo run. Around 11:00 this morning, I realized I had once again forgotten my Ipod. I sent my friend Deb an email asking her if she wanted to bring me my Ipod. My amazing friend Deb brought her Ipod to me so I could use it after work. She rocks!! Thanks again Deb.

When I walked outside today after work, it was starting to sprinkle. I called Deb's cell thinking I would ask her to borrow the treadmill. When the call went to voicemail, I decided I'm not going to be a whimp, I'm going to be strong today and I decided to run outside in the elements on a new route since I was running for a predetermined amount of time and not mileage. It was nice to run a different course. With the new course came hills and plenty of them. I warmed up and ran a nice pace for 12 minutes. After the first 12 minutes, I picked it up and did my tempo part of the workout for the next 12 minutes. At this point, I should have run a 12 minute cool down but I cut it short (7 minute cool down) because the sprinkles were starting to turn into a steady rain. Luckily, I finished right before it started pouring and I (as well as Deb's Ipod) stayed dry!!

When I picked Kaelynn up from school today her latch key teacher asked me these two questions :

• Why are you still running in this weather?
• Didn't you do your 1/2 marathon already?

My answer was yes I ran my 1/2 marathon but I'm training for the Cleveland Marathon now. I didn't hesitate or say I'm "considering" training, I said "I AM" training for the Cleveland Marathon to honor and support Deb's 10 year tumor free milestone.

In closing, to quote Melissa Etheridge, "I run for hope, I run to feel, I run for the truth, for all that is real, I run for your mother, your sister, your wife, I run for you and me my friend, I run for life".

Silence is definitely not golden when running

So I forgot to pack my Ipod for my run today. I realized this at approximately 7:15 AM. Of course I spent the entire day stressing over how I could run without it. So I basically thought about my Ipod (or lack of) for 8 plus hours.

Keep in mind I only ran three miles today and these are all the thoughts that went through my head:

• The words to eye of the tiger
• Wondering if I was going to be hit by all of those falling acorns
• Am I done yet
• Running without an ipod sucks
• There's no way I can run 26.2 miles without music
• I wonder how my cousin did in the Marine Corps Marathon yesterday
• The words to eye of the tiger (yes this is a ditto, thank you for the inspiration Rocky Balboa and everyone else who has continued to support and encourage my running.)
• Wonder what so and so is doing
• How can I put this into my blog
• Wow, I didn't know I could have so many thoughts in under thirty minutes

I survived my run without my Ipod, but trust me I will NOT be running without it again anytime soon!!

Goals

Hello and welcome to my newly created blog! I have decided to document my training for my newest goal for 2010 which is to run the Cleveland Marathon 0n May 16, 2010. Blogging will keep me honest and on task.

This is from my fundraising page for the Cleveland 1/2 Marathon in May 2009. This is the reason I started running again and continue to run each and every day.

My life was truly blessed to have known Stephanie Lufkin. She was the sweetest little girl with an amazing smile that could light up any room. Hearing her say good morning at Glenview (my children's daycare) always made my day. Stephanie passed away unexpectedly on May 8, 2008 due to complications of ITP. On May 17, 2009, I will be running in the Cleveland 1/2 Marathon for Stephanie, for her family, and for ITP.

I am grateful to Stephanie and her family each and every day for helping me find my love for running again.

I have accomplished many goals since the 1/2 Marathon.

My statistics since May 2009:

Cleveland 1/2 Marathon (May 17, 2009): 2:07.53
Webswat 5k (June 14, 2009): 26:37
Cardinal Twilight 5k (June 27, 2009): 27:02
Smiles for Sophie 5k (July 4, 2009): 26:26
OROC 5k (August 29, 2009): 25:09
Race for the Cure 5k (September 12, 2009): 24:46.1
Peace Race 10k (October 4, 2009): 52:35
Columbus 1/2 Marathon (October 18, 2009): 1:54.14

Running has been great stress relief and a great way to drop A LOT of weight!!

This blog will document my training for the 2010 Cleveland Marathon which I will be running in honor of my friend, Deb. On May 15, 2010 it will be 10 years since she had a brain tumor removed. We are running to raise money and awareness in her name. Deb is truly amazing. She ran the Columbus 1/2 Marathon this past Sunday as well! I am so proud of her and am truly honored to run for her and her health!!

Tomorrow (one week post 1/2 marathon) I am running the Skeleton 5k with my neighbor Brenda. My goal for tomorrow is to have an enjoyable Sunday run with a great friend. No time goals for me tomorrow.

I hope you enjoy my blog and comments are always welcome.