Quotables

Every morning in Africa, a gazelle wakes up. It knows it must outrun the fastest lion or it will be killed. Every morning in Africa, a lion wakes up. It knows that it must run faster than the slowest gazelle, or it will starve. It doesn't matter whether you're a lion or a gazelle when the sun comes up you'd better be running. (But, unless you're a runner, you won't understand.)
~ Anon

Five More Perfect Runs

1. The perfect run is when I arrive late ( and I have) run w/o my inhaler and win my age group (and I have).

2. For me, the perfect run combines the elements of:

• A great setting (usually on a trail in the woods)
• Friends to share it with
• If it is a race, good results
• Pretty OK weathe

Three runs come to mind in the last year

• HAT 50K - my first sub 5 hour 50K trail run
• Escarpment 2001
• Quadbuster in the fall - 45 miles through PA, MD, VA and WV. It had all of the elements. I only ran half the miles and crewed the other half, but I made new friends, had fun running with old friends, loved the trail scenery and felt great doing it. Plus, there was no need to "race" the course.

Honorable mention: VHTRC Fat Ass 50K just completed recently.

8. July 4, 2000: This happened during the Peachtree Road Race after I had climbed Heartbreak Hill and was passing the Beer Mug...probably four-and-a-half miles or so into the 10K. The field was 55,000 strong, so even this far into the race the course was still congested. I passed this one real old guy who I'd seen before out at some of the local tracks, and I guess I must have cut in front of him and slowed down a bit because a few seconds later he pushed me on my shoulder and told me to get out of his way as he ran by me. Now I'm thinking, "alright old man, let's get it on!" So I hang with him for a half a mile and then he just picks it up and leaves me. I went on to run a little over 36 minutes, and (when I checked the results in the paper) he finished about 45 seconds ahead of me. After the race I met up with some friends from the Track Club (some who'd finished 5 and 6 minutes earlier), and we were recapping the race. I said, "Hey, you guys know that old guy who's out at the track sometimes? He pushed me out of the way and just crushed me in the last mile." One of them said, "You know who that 'old guy' is don't you? That's Dick Buerkle."

So it turns out I'd been bitch-slapped on the course by a former World Record (indoor mile) holder who once beat Steve Prefontaine. Pretty cool, huh...only at Peachtree. And now you know "the rest of the story." It still cracks me up when I think about it. After he shoved me I was like "that's it, I'm gonna kick your ass now." HA! Not likely.

9. The perfect run for me would be a 2:59 marathon with negative splits. It wouldn't be fun, it wouldn't be spiritual and it sure as heck wouldn't be pretty for the last 10km but it sure would be perfect.

10. While most any time of the year can result in a "perfect run" on the trail, I would say that the mostest perfect run would be just after a fresh snowfall of 3-6 inches, when the sun is glistening on the snow and I'm breaking the first track. Peaceful . . . quiet . . .

The Perfect Run - Five Ideas

Here are five inspirational thoughts on what makes the perfect run:

1. What makes a good run for me is to be able to say that I ran at all. It doesn't have anything to do with the distance or speed of the run or even if you are running on the trail, road or on a track - it's how you feel afterward. It's knowing that there was a time when you didn't run. It's time away from the kids, jobs, dogs, telephones, and answering stupid questions and away from the responsibilities that clog up life. It's a powerful moment when you realize that you are in total charge of what you are doing and your body is responding. It's total awareness of the situation. At some point you forget about the concerns of the day and suddenly are aware of yourself. You can feel yourself breathe, you can feel your heart beat and you can feel your legs moving as your run. Saying that we ran means we took time for yourself and that makes us all a bit less grumpy.

2. I think that the cool thing about the "perfect" run is that there is no consistency to what makes a perfect run. For instance - the perfect runs that stick out in my mind come down to falling in one or more of these categories:
*raining - snowing - hot as hell - windy
*trails - roads
*70 miles - 5 miles
*felt bad when I started - felt marvelous the whole way through
*ran by myself - ran with 10 others
*race - training run
So - I would say a run is "perfect" because it's
a) different!/new!/unique!
b) meets your needs / frame of mind at that instance in time.

3. My idea of a perfect run is running in Mt Gretna immediately after a new fallen snow. A two inch cushion of white under my feet as I glide through the mountain trails is my idea of great fun. A nip at my nose and the sound and sight of my breath sends my heart palpitating. To make it really special, I have to run up behind a big buck and send him prancing through the woods. The run ends ninety minutes later as sweat runs down the side of my face from the wool cap perched on top of my head. As I drive back home, I can't wait until I am back in the woods again.

4. The perfect run . . . I've only just begun . . . . (to run, last year about this time, and I'm fairly old !) Well, I would say the perfect run to me would be to find myself keeping up with Heidi Mobeus and placing somewhere in my age group. At this point, I would need to grow wings on my shoes to accomplish that. The perfect run . . . would be to experience the "picking off people coming down the home stretch" rather than having them passing me!

5. The perfect run? How about a marathon in which I don't collapse in the final five miles?

More on Beyond the Epic Run

Here's a clip from Dean Karnazes, about Beyond the Epic Run:

Pain Like you Could Never Imagine

And I thought losing my toenails was bad. Here is what Serge and Nicole Roetheli endured in their run around the world.

Beyond the Epic Run

This is a must see movie for any runner:

In February, 2000, a couple left home in Switzerland to run around the world...alone. A small crowd of friends and family gathered in the morning hours in the shadows of the Matterhorn in Sion , Switzerland . They were there to send Serge and Nicole Roehteli off with great fanfare to begin what would be an epic journey. With Nicole as his sole crew support, following him on a motorcycle towing a small trailer, Serge was setting off to run over 25,000 miles, on six continents and through 37 countries.

Serge ran more than 25,000 miles over five years with Nicole behind him. They traveled through 37 counties on six continents. While they were running through Africa , they both caught Malaria and almost died, but Serge and Nicole kept on truckin'. It's an amazing story of an athlete --and a loving wife's--physical and mental strength. They risked everything for this experience. Very inspiring for anyone trying to overcome any challenge or who just has a passion for the sport!

Quotables

"Most people run a race to see who is fastest. I run a race to see who has the most guts."
~ Steve Prefontaine
5-30-1975

Cross Country in 2014 Winter Olympics?

I just found this article from "Inside the Games." Let's keep our fingers crossed that it actually happens!

Cross country running could be included in the 2014 Winter Olympics after the International Association of Athletics Federations supported its introduction.

A proposal first suggested six month ago by Haile Gebrselassie, Kenenisa Bekele and Paul Tergat - three of the greatest distance runners in history - is fast gathering momentum.

The International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) have now officially backed the plan and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) have said that they will investigate it closely after the 2010 Winter Games in Vancouver.

Gebrselassie, Bekele and Tergat - who between them have won five Olympic gold medals, 16 World Cross-Country titles and own every world record between 5,000 metres and the marathon - wrote to Jacques Rogge, the President of the IOC, last September asking him to consider their proposal.

Lamine Diack, the President of the IAAF, said: "The IOC have now written to us to ask our advice and we have told them that we are in favor of it. "We are prepared to organise cross country in the Winter Olympics." "It would be a good move for our sport."

The IAAF failed in an attempt last year to get the IOC to include cross-country on the program for the Winter Games. The IOC replied that it was not possible because the Winter Olympic program must be practiced on “snow or ice”.

But Diack has said that they are happy for the event to be held on snow if it would mean it could be included in the Olympics when they are staged in Sochi. Diack, who is also a member of the IOC, is hoping that next year's World Cross Country Championships, which were today awarded to Bydgoszcz in Poland, will help the sport's cause. He said: "It will be very cold in Bydgoszcz - no more than three degrees and possibly snowing. "People will see that these great runners can still stage a magnificent spectacle in such conditions."

Cross-country was dropped from the Olympics after the 1924 Games in Paris when 23 of the 38 starters failed to finish due to the extreme heat and poisonous fumes from a nearby energy plant.

The advantage of having the sport in the Winter Olympics is that it would give the African countries, like Kenya and Ethiopia, the opportunity to win a medal at an event they currently rarely make an impression in.

But the traditional winter sports are not expected to back the proposal when it is formally discussed next year.

How to Run Stronger

Here's a great video clip for those of you who are looking for ways to become a stronger runner. I will be sure to use some of these to prepare for my next big race!

I'm Back Now

Have you ever had those days when life just gets in the way? Well, as you may have noticed, I have been away for awhile. So it hasn't just been days, in this case, it has actually been weeks.

The frustrating part of it all, is that these are the times in my life when running could be so impactful. The times when I need it most, however, it gets pushed to the back burner because every other area of my life is in overload.

I wish I truly understood how to live a balanced life. What would that look like? How would my days be different? I know one thing for certain, running would not be the last thing I would think about doing. It would be the thing that would enable me to get through the other areas of my day.

With that life lesson learned, I hate to say it, but I am not going to be able to run that half marathon. Two weeks off has put me out of the running, so to speak. However, I know there are more races to come.

It is a great reminder -- just because life does get in the way, we can always find another race to run and another day to compete.

Off the Beaten Path

Once in awhile, I try to run without a time or destination in mind. I leave my watch at home, grab a water bottle and head out the door. I have discovered so many interesting things on these runs. I have met new neighbors, found new trails and discovered new running challenges.

Sometimes, after I complete my run, I hop in my car and find out just how far I went. I am always surprised by how good a ten mile run can feel when I am not pressuring myself to perform. I find these runs bring me back to the real reason I like to run. Sure it is important to keep in shape and running helps settle my brain, but it is also one of the best ways I know to connect with the world around me.

Perhaps your running is getting boring or maybe you find yourself running the same course all the time. Consider taking a trip off the beaten path. There is a world of wonders out there to discover!

Attitude Check

When I was running the Green Bay Marathon a few years back, I briefly ran with a woman around the mile 18 mark. She was one of those people who couldn't find anything positive to say. I commented about the beautiful river walk on which we were running, she said, "it's too narrow." I mentioned the perfect sunshiny 50 degree day with which we were blessed, she said "It was way too cold at the start of the race." And when we passed the mile 18 sign, she cursed out loud and said, "why does that sign say 18, why can't it say 25?"

As I went on my way, I started to feel a bit sorry for her. We all encounter bad moods when running. However, I believe that running a is truly a gift. It is the ability to finish something that seems insurmountable at first. When you are cursing the race at mile 18, you are defeating yourself. I found a wise quote that says, "Running is 90% mental and 10% physical, so if you have a bad attitude you're wasting 100% of your time." I don't know who said it, but it is ever so true.

The next time you are running with the weight of a bad mood remember, to participate in this sport is a blessing. And, while you may be having a bad day, if you are a true runner, you will only curse the day you cannot run again.

Motivation

"Running is a big question mark that's there each and every day. It asks you, 'Are you going to be a wimp or are you going to be strong today?'"
- Peter Maher, Irish-Canadian Olympian and sub-2:12 marathoner

Can You Relate?

While I have never had this treadmill experience, it is just provides another reason why running on the treadmill stinks. Pretty funny...enjoy

No Running on A Good Hair Day!

Yesterday I had to take my oldest daughter to the orthodontist first thing in the morning. This meant had to take a shower first thing in the morning. Usually, I wait until I am done running to shower...but I didn't want to scare the doctor (or embarrass my daughter).

After my shower there were the usual getting ready tasks...lotion, dry hair, flat iron, make-up. When I was finished, I was pleased with how respectable I appeared. Then that thought crossed my mind.

"I can't run...I'm having a good hair day! If I run, I will need to take another shower (I am a prolific sweater), and there is a good chance my hair won't look as good." And with that, I decided, I would not run on my good hair day!

So what excuses do you come up with for skipping your daily run?

Faithful Friends

Over the years, there have been many things I have changed in my running apparel. Some days, I need shorts, others a turtleneck and wind sweats. And, sometimes, I need to break down and buy a new shirt because my old one is so pitted out it stands on its own.

But the one thing I will never change are my trusted running shoes. When I started running, I developed a mean case of Plantar Facitatis. After that I never skimped on this part of my wardrobe.

I laugh when I think about a conversation with my father-in-law regarding how expensive running shoes are. He said..."well why don't you just get a cheap pair of shoes to train and then run the race in a better pair." He is, of course, a non runner. That is like saying, why don't you buy a cheap pair of tires for everyday use and then use an expensive pair when you travel for vacation. The only difference is the vacation travel will not result in a severe case of blisters!

So here are my faithful friends...Brooks Adrenaline GTS7. Love em' I have had six pairs...and sometimes buy them two at a time. I hope Brooks does not stop making them...I just might have to stop running!

A Marathon Funny

Here's a great video I found about running a marathon! Be warned, the song he sings is very infectious. It ran through my head the whole time I was running my last marathon!

Quote of the Day

Here's something to get you motivated to run this week:

"I always loved running...it was something you could do by yourself, and under your own power. You could go in any direction, fast or slow as you wanted, fighting the wind if you felt like it, seeking out new sights just on the strength of your feet and the courage of your lungs."

-Jesse Owens

Life is a Marathon

Despite the fact that only 10% of people will ever run a marathon during their lifetime, there are many life lessons that can be learned through this endurance event. Here is a list of things I have gleaned from the four marathons I have run.

1. People are generally nice.


2. Enjoy the scenery.


3. Music helps.


4. You do stink as bad as you think.


5. Toenails grow back.


6. You can do it.


7. The porta-potty is your friend.


8. Set a goal and then tell someone, otherwise you might not do it.


9. Never run alone -- there is always someone who needs a friend on the course.


10. Prayer is helpful.


11. Family is precious -- my biggest fans.


12. Take deep breaths.


13. Keep moving forward.


14. Slow down if you need to.


15. Eat a good breakfast.


16. Get plenty of fluids.


17. Find something to laugh about.


18. It's okay to cry - even if you're happy!


19. Some miles are longer than others.
    
20. Finish strong.

The Calm After the Storm

I am a very uptight person. I am a worrier, a planner and a type A+ personality. I often suffer from a bit of PMS and on top of all that, I am the mother of two daughters, one of whom is in the throes of puberty. Are you starting to feel sorry for my husband?

While it doesn't happen often, there have been times in my life that all these things come together in one overwhelming creshendo, creating in my mind a swirling vortex. It is during these moments that my husband lovingly suggests I go for a run.

I am blessed to be married to a man who can speak the truth in love. This is because he has been a regular witness to the calming affect running has on my state of mind. After a run, it seems as if the planets come into alignment. I am able to focus, to calmly sort through the rubble and deal with the next curve ball life throws at me.

While I will most likely always have an over the top personality (as well as two daughters), I am so glad I have running to bring it all into perspective.

The Plan

Yesterday I announced (much to my horror), that I am going to run a half marathon on April 5. Today, after realizing that unless something unforseen (and unwanted) happens, I decided to make a plan. So, just in case some of you are thinking about doing the same, or perhaps you are in the the Milwaukee area and want to join me (http://www.trailbreaker.com/), here is what I am going to do to prepare:

• This week: 3m/3m/3m/5-6m (note: I have already done the first two runs :0)



• 2/23: 3m/4m/3m/7m



• 3/2: 3m/4m/3m/8m



• 3/9: 3m/4m/3m/10m



• 3/16: 3m/ 4m/3m/12m



• 3/23: 3m/3m/3m/5m



• 3/30: 3m/3m/3m/13.1

That's my plan. I will keep you updated regularly on my progress.

1/2 Mary Anyone?

Okay, I'm going to commit to it! On April 5, 2009 I will run a half marathon. It's not that it is a big deal...after all I have run four marathons and two other half marathons. It's just that if I don't actually say it, then I don't have to do it. I am a goal oriented runner, however, often my goals are not verbalized. Therefore, if I don't reach them, no one really knew anyhow.

But today, I announce to the entire Internet, that I will set aside time to train for this event, I will register on-time, I will get a good night sleep before the run, I will pick up my race packet and I will compete.

There you have it...no backing out now!

Why Do I Run?

This is an excerpt from a something I wrote a few years back...in a nutshell, it explains why we runners do what we do.

Why do I run? It has been asked of me more times than I can count.

This year, I took on the challenge of running a marathon for the second time. And, while the race was much more difficult than the one I ran last year...as my husband so succinctly put it, the finish was even more satisfying. Because, despite the adversity I faced, I did finish.

So ask me again...why do I run? Sometimes, it is just to finish.

Other times it is for what I was thinking at mile 20 when my husband drove by in our mini van. I told him after the race, if he had opened the door, I might have considered jumping in. Then I rethought my statement and said "no, actually, I don't think I would have." With my daughters cheering me on, this was not the example I wanted to set -- quitting so close to the finish.

Why do I run? Because I know they are watching and learning and taking it all in. Because I hear them say, "when I grow up, I want to be just like you mom." I want them to see their race, whatever race they are in, through to the end...to persevere in spite of their humanness.

I run for the woman at mile 18 who was in so much pain she was gritting her teeth and gasping. The one who eventually had to stop so that she might be able to run again another day.

Why do I run? I run because I can. Because it is something than many cannot do. I can push my body to a point that, at one time, I never thought possible and still live to talk about it at the other end. I can run for 26 miles straight and still be standing at the end...because I can!

Many times I run because of the feeling I had when I crossed the starting line of my 26.2 mile journey to the strains of theme from "Chariots of Fire." Or when I saw the man at mile seven who was playing "Roll Out The Barrel" on his accordion for all the runners to enjoy (I am from Wisconsin after all!). I run for that little girl who joined dad's race for 100 yards at mile 13.

Why do I run? I run for the joy of it. I run because I know I am able to take this flesh and blood that God gave me, endure the pain and trials and in the end, find pure happiness.

Starting Over

I can't believe it has been two weeks since my last run! How did that happen? Well actually, if you read down a few posts, you will discover exactly how that happened.

It never fails, every winter, I start out strong. I tell myself, "Shelly, you WILL run through the entire winter. You WILL NOT stop running." And then, despite my best efforts, sickness gets in the way.

I always seem to end up with a two week ball of flem, goobers and a dry cough. Singularly, each might hold me up from running...but when they are in combo, I am rendered completely useless. I cough all night, and blow my nose all day. And in between, I manage to whine to my husband about how horrible I feel. (unfortunately, this time I shared, so he was not very sympathetic).

As an aside, I just want to say, I took Mucinex for over a week and never once saw anything that resembled the green guy on the commercial (see post picture).

Anyhow, somehow, the little green guy is slowly leaving my body undetected, which means I was able to run today! Yea!!! My dog was so happy she barked the first quarter mile. I was just happy to be able to run the first quarter mile without an oxygen mask. After three miles, I was thankful to be home, and wondering why it only takes two weeks for me to lose any Vo2 Max I had gained during the rest of my winter runs.

Magic Beans

As a marathon runner, I have tried many products to keep me energized during long runs. I have gagged down GU, Hammer Gel and PowerGel (I call it flavored Crisco...can't stand it!). I have eaten bananas, oranges and chocolate chip cookies. I have stuffed MoJo bars in my waist band to eat at a halfway point. And, I have drank so much Gatorade, I think I may have burned a hole in my stomach.

Through all of my running fuel tests and trials, I have found one thing that gives me just what I need on long runs. Just sour enough to make my mouth water. A pleasing texture and flavor. Easy to pop a few in my mouth while still running. And small enough to carry along with me. They are my Magic Beans.

I have heard some people have had bad experiences with Jelly Belly's Sports Beans, but I am considering taking stock in them, because of how many packages I have purchased. If you are looking for a new pick me up during your next marathon or endurance event training program, consider giving the Magic Beans a try. (and no, they don't have the same effect as the "other" magic beans!)

Running on Empty

I haven't been up to running lately. My mind has been saying "yes" while my body has been screaming "no." Yep, I'm sick. Which leads me to this blog. The top five reasons you might want to stay in bed instead of going for a run today.

5. Your head pops off when you bend over to tie your shoes

4. You are sweating profusely and you haven't even started to run.

3. Your nose requires a drip bucket.

2. You have eaten so much chicken soup you are starting to grow feathers.

1. You woke up this morning on the kitchen floor. The last thing you remember was taking NyQuil.

The Machine of Doom

I dread running on the treadmill! This past fall, however, it was the only way I could get in my mileage.

After a 15 mile bike ride, I had extreme pain and swelling in my hip joint. Every time I tried to run, it would just make the pain worse. I would take a day or two off, and hit the road again...always with the same end result, horrible pain and a couple days limping around the house.

After much deliberation, I decided the roads were probably a bit too hard on my injury. My only two choices were to give up running for a while or find a softer surface on which to run. I chose the later.

With much dread, I faced the machine of doom three to five days a week. Three miles was about all I could take before the boredom set in. I called them my runs to nowhere. While I am overjoyed that I had the option of using the treadmill, at the time, I wished it was by choice and not necessity.

In January I started running on the roads again. It has been a very cold winter here in the Midwest, however, I am just thrilled to be running somewhere, instead of nowhere!

Run Your Own Race

I love the fact that running is a microcosm of this thing we call life. The crowd at any Saturday morning race offers a cross section of humanity. There are short runners, tall runners, thin runners and portly ones. Each person runs for their own reason, each has their own goals, each runs their own race.

I ran my last marathon with a group of friends from church -- two men and two women. Of the four people in our group, I was the shortest (by several inches), the youngest (not by much) and the slowest (by a lot). Even though I knew I could not maintain the same pace as my friends, there was no shame in the race I was going to run. It was my race. I ran with my music, at my speed to attain my goals.

We started the race together, but as each person set their own pace, we quickly separated. While each of us covered the same 26 miles, we each ran very different races. However, when we crossed the finish line and traded tales of our day's events, we were united by the finisher's medal we wore around our necks.

I always tell people, I am "every runner." I am not particularly fast, I will probably never win a big race and no matter how much I run I still can't get rid of the fat dimples on my rear-end -- but when I am out there running, It is on my terms...it is my own race.

Friends

Many times, I run to delight in the peace and solitude of being alone. I enjoy having time in my own head without hundreds of other demands breaking in. Often running is my one chance to get away from my family and feel the wind blow through my hair.

Some of my fondest running memories, however, are the moments I have spent with friends. When I was training for my last marathon, I had one very good friend who often put up with me on long runs. We shared so much in the hours we spent together. Trust me, there are a lot of things to share when you are running 23 miles -- and let me tell you, my friend could talk the entire 23 miles.

There were days we laugh so hard we cried...and other times, we wanted to cry, but laughed instead. It was during these runs, that a close and unbreakable bond was formed. Although we don't see each other as often now that we are not training, we will always be connected through running.

There is something special about the people you meet running -- they are real. Running breaks down the walls we erect and bring us to our most base level. I think it's because we understand. We have been there -- we have run "that" race. The one that hurt so badly you just wanted it to end, or the one that was so perfect you felt as if you could go on forever. Running is the thing that joins us together and makes us realize that we are not alone.

While I still enjoy running alone, I hold dear the wonderful running friends I have met on the race courses of my life.

You Want Me to Put Vaseline Where?

Anyone who has trained or run any kind of distance event has probably asked this question at one time or another.

We all know Vaseline is a necessary evil in the realm of long distance running. It saves us from pain and irritation. And, like any good motor oil, keeps all the joints and rubbing parts in fluid motion.

Distance running is humbling. As a mother, I liken it to the experience of childbirth. We do things that no rationale human being would consider -- things that really hurt. And, when we are finished we say "I think I'll try that again."

In most cases, we are not running for notoriety or recognition, but rather to finish the blasted event. So, in essence, we slather goo in our nether-regions simply to say, "I finished the race." Does this make sense?

To an ordinary person, perhaps not. But to those of us who have set the goal, prepared for the challenge and met our fears head on, it makes complete sense. We have conquered something that most people could not even imagine -- something bigger that ourselves. We dug down deep, found the strength and courage and reigned victorious over our body's groaning. And in the end, we crossed the line, covered in Vaseline, with only a finisher's medal and a sweaty photograph to prove we were ever there.

OCD Running

Perhaps I am strange, perhaps it is the OCD or maybe, just maybe, all runners have weird running routines and habits. Here are my top ten running habits, maybe you have a few you'd like to add.

1. When I run I chant, just keep running, running, running...like Dori on "Finding Nemo" (just keep swimming, swimming swimming).

2. I always start running at the end of my driveway...never before, never after...always at the end.

3. I always feel much taller than five feet when I am running.

4. I prefer to run in the dark...it feels like I am running faster.

5. I hate the sound of swishing nylon jackets and pants.

6. I can hear a dog barking from a mile away and immediately start looking around for the snarling teeth.

7. I always hit my mailbox when I end a run...sort of like running through the finisher's tape.

8. I hate having wet shoes or socks. It feels like running in jello.

9. I have to brush my teeth after I run....I can't stand the goobers that build up on my teeth.

10. I have always wanted to run with an American Flag draped on my back...just like the Olympic winners do!

Not Gracie's Day

I love to run with my dog....and the feeling is reciprocated by her. She knows the sound of my shoes as I tie the laces and comes trotting into my closet, ready to hit the roads again. She is joyful in her anticipation, barking, whining and running around my feet. I only wish I had half her excitement when it came to running ...motivation would not be a problem!

On Monday, however, it just wasn't Gracie's day. I had a very busy afternoon and was trying to squeeze in a three miler before my two o'clock appointment. I got out my standard winter running wardrobe and started the chore of suiting up. The temperature wasn't supposed to break out of the teens, so I knew I really needed to bundle for this run.

Gracie heard the swish of my wind pants and came running down the hall. "Yeah!!! We're going for a run," was her bark of glee. Her tail thumped the carpet with the anticipation of hitting the streets. It took about five minutes to get ready, with Gracie nipping at my heals the entire time. She whined with excitement as she followed me to the mud room for my windbreaker, hat and gloves.

I just needed to check my email to make sure my appointment was not cancelled. I took a quick trip downstairs, with Gracie right behind me, and then back up to the kitchen for a Kleenex (although boogers freeze, they eventually thaw). It was then that I noticed the clock. Already 12:55, I only had an hour to run, eat, shower and get to my appointment, which was 15 minutes away.

My run would have to wait. I started to take off my hat and mittens and unzip the windbreaker. Gracie's little button eyes gave me the "wait a minute...I thought we were about to do something fun...." look. It was as if someone had taken the squeaky part out of her favorite toy. You could see confusion and disappointment all over her face. Her ears laid back as if to say "I promise I'll be good, just take me for a run."

But alas it just wasn't meant to be. She followed me to the bathroom and cocked her head to the side as I turned on the shower, then slowly, tail hung low, she turned around and walked out. The picture above is how I found her as I was getting ready to leave the house. As if to say, "never mind, I didn't want to run with you anyway!"

The Things People Say to Runners

We've all come across these people...the ones who just have to say something about running as you pass by. Sometimes the comments are a courteous, "way to go," while other times they are just downright rude.

I had one neighbor think I might be too hot...without asking, he hosed me down as I passed by. What he didn't know was I still had 10 miles to go...not a lot of fun in soggy shoes and dripping shorts -- Let the chaffing begin!

How many times has someone asked you to run for them too? Oh sure...I'd love to! I really enjoy adding mileage to my run for someone else. I only hope they reap the health benefits as well.

What about the person who tells you how crazy you are? Don't you just want to smack em? I don't need some stranger telling me I have a mental health problem...I am quite aware of it already!

My personal favorite is the weather forecaster. It is a hot afternoon...you feel as though you are searching for the oasis in the desert, when some smarty pants drives by, rolls down the window of their air conditioned car and yells...hot enough for you? No really, I would prefer it was 10 degrees warmer. I make it a goal to dehydrate at least once a week.

So what is a runner to do with these clever comments? Well, we could waste our time getting upset....or we could chalk it up to another one of the many reasons running is less a means of exercise and more a life experience.

Booger Runs

Despite the fact that I live in the Midwest, and have lived here my entire life...I hate cold weather. I know, "hate" is a very strong word...one that I tell my children not to use...but despise, dislike and abhor simply do not have enough force to portray my real feelings about the cold.

Today, started out at a balmy 3 degrees in my hometown. I call it booger freezing weather, for the obvious reason. I always use the booger barometer to test the coldness factor. If, when I breathe through my nose, all the boogers instantly crystallize to my noes hairs, it is too cold for a really long run outside.

This leaves me with two choices...hit the treadmill, which I unaffectionatley named the hamster track, or suffer through a shorter run with icicles hanging from my nose! Today I chose the latter.

I prepare for my frozen booger runs by, dressing in layers (just like mom taught me). Despite the fact that am trying to streamline my apparel, I always end up looking like Ralphie from A Christmas Story -- long sleeve moisture wicking shirt with a hood, turtleneck fleece, running tights, wind pants, wind breaker, hood up, hat over hood, ear band, mittens and sun glasses.

As I hit the bitter cold, the wind stings against my exposed face (the only exposed skin on my body) -- instantly, I have the icy booger rush. My legs are stiff, but I keep pressing onward. Gradually, I get into a steady pace, my breathing normalizes and I start to enjoy the frozen world around me. Until, I turn the corner and head west!

The normal three mile course I run goes through my subdivision. It is one big loop, which means, at some point in my run, I will hit a head wind. In addition, I live in a neighborhood of relatively new construction on two acre lots -- wide open spaces for the wind to whip through. The winter wind, which normally comes from the Northwest, always hits me right in the middle of my run. I call this section of the course, my shoe run, so named because I spend most of the time looking down at my shoes to block the wind from hitting my face (and further freezing my boogers).

Despite the wind I press on, knowing that soon enough I will head east. I am always amazed by how good the run feels at this point in the course. With the wind at my back, I normally have to unzip my windbreaker! My nose is still iced up, but the rest of my body is actually HOT! I open up my stride and start my final 3/4 of a mile -- I'm in the homestretch!

When I get home, I find the frozen boogers have now turned into a dripping faucet. I run inside and grab a tissue before they make their way into my mouth -- ugh! My cool down stretch and requisite ab workout are frequently interrupted by additional tissue runs -- how can such a little nose have so much snot?

Just as I am starting to get a chill from the now clammy sweat that is covering my clothing, I end my workout with a long HOT shower. Despite the fact that, for the foreseeable future, I will remain living in a cold climate, I am glad I took my booger run...I emerge from the shower warmed up and ready to face the rest of my day!

Running Through The Eyes of a Child

I started my second running career with a four and seven year old watching my every step. I ran in high school, but had long since given up the sport for less motivating ventures. However with my 36th birthday just completed, I began to realize why it was so important for me to continue my running journey.

It was early October and I had been training for my first marathon since June. I began my second running career the previous December, barely able to make it a half mile and graduated to the distance of 26.2 miles just 10 months later.

It was a glorious October day, highs in the 50s and a crispness in the air. I was at the starting line ready to barf up the bagel I had forced myself to eat before leaving home at 5 a.m. As I stood in the sea of people not knowing a soul and wondering why I thought I could do this, my daughters came up to wish me good luck and that they would be cheering for me. Each had made a special sign which they proudly waived as I started my twenty six point two mile quest.

Even though I trained all summer, the race was anything but easy. I went through a whole range of emotions from joy and elation, to despair and despondence. It was at these low moments that our silver Honda Odyssey would drive past and I would hear my daughter’s cheers. I was driven onward because they wanted me to do it.

When I reached the finish line, both of my girls met me for the final quarter mile and ran to the finish. I can still remember the pride that each of them had in telling their friends and teachers that they had finished a marathon! It wasn’t until a few months later that I truly saw the impact my running had on their lives. My oldest daughter was talking about her favorite sports, of which running was one. She looked me in the eye and said “mom, when I grow up will you run a marathon with me?”

Note: since I first wrote this piece, my oldest daughter has competed in and completed two 5K's (see photo above!)

But I Can't Run

I hear this time and time again from the non-runners I encounter. They label me "crazy" and a "glutton for punishment." In addition, I often hear..."I would love to run...but I just can't." While there are truly some people who, because of a medical condition, cannot run, the majority of people can run, they just don’t want to.

I started my first running career in high school on the track and cross country teams. I was not necessarily in love with running, I just like the team aspect of the sport and found a sense of belonging in this community.

My second running career started just after my 35 birthday. With my children in preschool and elementary school, I found myself looking for a way to take off the weight that I have been losing and regaining through yo-yo dieting and on-again-off-again exercise programs. I was fat, discouraged and depressed and was the first to say, but I can’t run!

When I finally decided that I wanted to become a runner again, the first thing I discovered was that things did not move as easily as they did in my teens. I had extra curves and baggage that I wasn’t carrying around in my youth. I was also not able to just get out there and do it. I had to take it slow.

My program started just before Christmas. I ran a whopping half mile before I had to walk. I continued my walk/run program for several weeks, until I was able to go a full mile without hyperventilating. By Valentine’s day I was able to run five miles at a slow and steady pace and just after St. Patrick’s Day I ran my first half marathon.

Now entering my fourth decade of life, I still continue to run. For me it has become a therapy of sorts. It allows me to push myself to limits I thought were out of reach. Some people ask me if I always love running. To which I answer a whole hearted “No.” However, I always qualify this “No” with the statement, "I never regret going for a run." Even though it may feel horrible and I might dread every step, when I finish I know I have accomplished something.
So for those of you who say, “I can’t run,” know that if you truly want to run, you really can do it!

Running on empty -- A Mommy's Journey

There I was. A mother of two, overweight, out of shape and in the midst of a stare down with the treadmill. How did I let myself get to this point? Would I ever be fit again? It was the age old question that haunts many young mothers.

Keeping up with the kids was a full-time job which often left no room for self improvement. I found myself eating the scraps of food they left on their plate while cleaning the kitchen and keeping a toddler from climbing the cabinets. I was overwhelmed, over tired and often over worked. Until the day I saw myself in a photograph.

To say I was shocked by the picture is an understatement. That couldn’t possibly be my rear end. However the clothing attached to the body was most assuredly found in my closet, and in a size that I was in denial about wearing. I was fat!

I started the quest to find my pre-pregnancy body at the local Weight Watchers. And, while I was able to take off a respectable 25 pounds, as soon as the program was over, I found myself slipping back into my familiar routines. Next was the gym. I believed that if I simply worked hard enough I could eat what I wanted. I started strong, but my enthusiasm quickly waned as the pounds held onto my bones for dear life.

In my youth I was a runner. While I was not a particularly good one, I was able to earn a respectable spot on my high school cross country team and even competed for a year in college. This was the thought that brought me to that pivotal moment standing face to LED display with the treadmill.

The first run was a hard one. I made it a half mile before I had to walk. The next day I was paying for my new found hobby, having trouble making it down the stairs to meet with the torture machine once again. But somehow I found the will and made it another half mile. Over the next few weeks, I gradually saw myself making slow mileage improvements. Within six weeks I was able to run five miles, albeit slowly, it was still five miles!

Soon came the challenge. I was asked to train for a local half marathon. Even in my cross country days I did not have to run more than five miles (the races were only two miles), so the thought of running 13.1 seemed an insurmountable task. Yet while my mind and body were screaming "no," my mouth said "yes."

I found that this seemingly impossible goal was driving me onward in my quest for health and fitness. I had to change my eating habits just to have the energy to run. In addition, I made the mistake of telling everyone my plans. I knew if my plan wasn't public knowledge, I would certainly have the ability to back out at the last minute. But with everyone watching my progress and encouraging me to move forward, I was forced to keep going.

The day of the race came and I was in the best shape my body had seen for over 12 years. I had made it up to 12 miles in my training and hoped that adrenaline would carry me the remaining 1.1 miles. It was a long and arduous run. I had blisters on my toes, aching hip joints and cramps in my arches, but yet I moved forwards. And when I finally crossed the finish line, I reached my goal. I was losing weight, had more energy to chase my children, a brighter outlook on life and a new found spark of motivation. And then came the fateful question – “I wonder if I could run a marathon?”