The Bright Side

“Happiness is simply a habit of looking on the brighter side of everything.” 

~ Richelle E. Goodrich

Mondays are generally rough for many of us.  For me, they are particularly challenging because I tend to be coming off a rest day and gearing up for a long run.  Since I'm training for a fall race, my long runs have been steadily creeping into the 15+ miles category.  I trained for my last few marathons with my running partner (and dear friend), KH.  We always did our long runs together which made them significantly more bearable.  Much to my dismay, our summer schedules don't mesh and we are not able to train together, so I am doing most of these long runs on my own (shout out to LT, who ran 2 of them with me this month).  I realize that I choose to race and therefore I am choosing to train and thus I am choosing to do the long runs, but on Monday morning, it doesn't feel like I'm choosing to do anything but put myself through torture for multiple hours.  On Tuesdays, I have a recovery day which is typically a 5-6 mile easy run (no watch).  Compared to the long run, it is truly delightful.  As I trotted along yesterday, I made a point to think about the bright side of my run.  My hope was that the next time I had a Monday long run looming around the corner, I would remember how good the Tuesday recovery run can be and it would be easier to power through.  I know, it's a long shot.  But, I have several more weeks of training ahead of me and I am working with whatever I've got to make it a positive experience all the way through.  Turns out it's easy to look at the bright side after a long run. 

THE BRIGHT SIDE OF TUESDAY'S RUN: TOP 10 THINGS

1. It's 70 degrees and there is no humidity. NONE.  This has seriously got to be the best day for running that we've had all summer.
2. Man, I am LOVING these new kicks.  My feet are so much happier.  And I feel really fast.

I'm sorry...but, how cool are these?

3. This lack of humidity means I will be able to get a brush through my hair after my run. How nice.
4. Wow, I will have almost 2 more hours than I did yesterday to get stuff done today. That's huge.
5. And, I will be able to get stuff done without hobbling around and/or feeling like I need to sit every 30 minutes on account of having run 16 miles.  
6. Oooh, tomorrow is cross train day.  Yoga?  Spinning?  So many good choices.
7. I am not the least bit thirsty and if I do get parched I am so close to home it won't matter.  No worries there.
8. This new song by TV on the Radio is insane.  I'd say it's worth repeating. Multiple times.  It's definitely making me run faster.
9. I gotta say, running 6 miles after 16 is a serious walk in the park.
10. Wait...I'm done?  Yea.  I'm done.  That was quick.

I realize I won't be able to fall back on all of these same items next week.  My shoes will no longer be new and who knows what the weather will be doing.  But, I've still got to tackle the long run on Monday, so the Tuesday run will, once again, be a welcome change, especially now that I know how good it can be.

Listen to this:
MERCY - TV on the Radio

THE 'REST' DAY

"What is without periods of rest will not endure."

~ Ovid

For many of us, Sunday is a day of rest.  For me, as a runner, Sunday is literally my "rest day".  No running.  No cross training.  No nothing.  In the same way that one has to respect the taper when he or she is training for a marathon, I truly believe that you have to respect the rest day when it comes around each week.  All runners - fast or slow, young or old, elite or recreational -  need a rest.  The body, the mind, the whole package, needs a break from whatever strenuous thing it is that we put it through day in and day out; which in my case is running.  Yes, I do many other things that wear me out.  I am a mom, a coach, a school volunteer, yada, yada.  But the running is what takes the most out of me physically.  I choose to run and race and I embrace and thrive on the hard work (most of the time).  So, I get a lot of satisfaction in knowing that I have earned my "rest day".  And without this rest, for which I would say the same thing about running, I would probably have a tough time holding it all together.  They say balance is key for a reason.  I love knowing that on Sunday morning I can wake up and just chill.  I don't have to think about what the weather is doing, I don't have to worry about how to squeeze my run in around our family activity and I am not wondering whether or not I should go ahead and have a second, or (gasp!) third cup of coffee.  I know when my husband asks me "What do you want to do today?" my answer will have nothing to do with running.  And that is a good thing - for all of us.  When Monday rolls around, my girls get ready for school or camp, my husband gets ready for work and I put on my running clothes.  Even if I can't get to it right away, I know I'm going to do it.  I need to do it.  I want to do it.  And after this short but luxurious rest, I am once again eager to put my body in motion.  And that, too, is a good thing - for all of us.

Listen to this:
Come Save Me - Jagwar Ma  

Keep Running

RUNNING...

This past Saturday, I shipped my older daughter off to sleep away camp for 2 weeks. Then on Monday, I put my six year old on a bus for an all day wilderness adventure around 8:00am.  I had a 15 mile run to tackle that morning and I was pumped.  My stress level was at an all time low, I had some solid new music on my iPod, I was sporting my new fuel belt - recently purchased after (stupidly) suffering through my last couple long runs without water - and I had the added bonus of relatively decent weather (for summer).  Given all of these factors, I assumed it was going to be a solid run.  Not so much.  I started off nice and slow, as I always do; giving my legs plenty of time to wake up and let the caffeine kick in.  Around mile 4, my head was in the game and I was freshly hydrated (really nice for a change), and my legs, well, they didn't really want to go any faster.  I tried not to think about it and reassured myself that I just needed a little more time to settle in.  I might have skipped a song or two at this point thinking a higher beat per minute might help.  Whatever works.  At about mile 8, I checked my Garmin, sure that I was finally cruising at a faster pace.  No dice.  I was still holding strong at a quick shuffle.  Naturally, I started to feel a little discouraged.  I had done multiple long runs just weeks before in hotter temps with no water at a pace significantly speedier than this.  Nothing was working. My music was not giving me the usual boost.  My new fuel belt was not working any miracles either.  I literally just didn't have it.  Hours later, I finished.  So that was good.  But, that's about all that was good.  The night before this particular long run I had emailed my coach and told him that I was feeling really strong and fired up about how my training was going.  Seriously, what was I thinking?  Why the hell would I do that to myself?  Murphy's law, jinx, fate, call it what you will, but when you're feeling good and you shout it out, you're just asking for it.  You would think after all of these years of running I would have learned my lesson.  Things are good, Rebecca.  Don't rock the boat.  But here's the thing.  There are runs that suck.  And there are runs that make you feel like you are a superhero.  And once in while, those of us who run a lot have full WEEKS when we feel untouchable.  And when that happens, man, it feels good to tell someone about it.  So I did.  And then I ran.  And it wasn't so great.  Later that day I sent my coach an email and gave him the low down.  In so many words, he told me three things - 1. it happens 2. it will happen again and 3. don't worry about it.  So I stopped worrying about it.  On Tuesday morning, I woke up, put my daughter on the bus and...yep, you guessed it...went for a run.  And I will keep running because, well, you know.

...AND MUSIC

 Listen to this:
Live Your Life - MIKA
Mika - Live Your Life (Official Audio) from Javier López Cortés on Vimeo.

Showing Her Wings (& Oiselle Winner)

RUNNING (sort of)...

Rosie & her buddy, Ellie, right before their send-off to camp.

Since she could walk, my 8 year old has always been in a state of constant motion.  If I had half the energy she exudes on a daily basis, I'd be breaking records on the track.  It's incredible.  I love to be near it.  I love that she doesn't even realize she has it.  I don't always love it when she needs to focus on homework or get to bed.  I know that her energy is a big part of who she is and that one day she will channel it all into something wonderful.  Right now uses it to do cartwheels ... everywhere ... nonstop.  No, seriously.  Since October, she has been counting down the days until she left for sleep away camp this summer.  On Saturday, we dropped her off at a boat landing where a ferry shuttled her and a handful of other kids of all ages over to a small island on Lake Winnipesaukee in NH.

Headed down to the ferry. WINGS OUT.

For 2 weeks, she will be running wild, having the time of her life, and maybe brushing her hair, although not likely.  For her, it's a dream come true.  It is the perfect setting for her to do what she loves; day in and day out.  To discover herself.  To spread her wings.  To be free.  As I mentioned last week, I get that feeling almost every time I race.  She will get that feeling every day she wakes up this week and heads off to try something new.  How cool is that?  As she was pulling away from the dock she gave me one last wave.  And then off she flew.

OISELLE "SHOW YOUR WINGS" WINNER:

Speaking of spreading ones wings, congrats to Leah F. the winner of the "Wings Out" PR Necklace made by Melissa Gacek for Oiselle.  Best of luck as you train for your first marathon.  I hope you have a wonderful flight!  Many thanks to Oiselle for donating this inspirational piece.

...AND MUSIC

Listen to this:
Loveliest Creature - Savoir Adore  

SUMMER SURVIVAL KIT

RUNNING...

I realize it's not strange to get multiple weeks in a row of high temps and humidity in the summertime, but here in the Boston area it typically doesn't happen until August.  And if it does happen before that, it's usually for a day or two, not for an entire month.  Right???  I think we have officially tapped into a new level of heat at this point.  As I was running yesterday I thought to myself, wow, despite the fact that it was warm and smelled like trash, the breeze from that garbage truck that just passed me felt FANTASTIC.  I busted out 8 long miles in the blazing sun and cursed my decision to train for a fall race the entire time.  I also thought about all the wonderful things I have available to me to make summer running a little easier to deal with.  I'm trying hard to keep things somewhat positive.  Here are my recommendations of key items that can help you keep you cool as you battle the heat.  Godspeed!

RWM SUMMER SURVIVAL KIT

1. NUUN - my hydration solution for all conditions; any time, anywhere. Period.
 ---> Bonus: right now if you spend $30 on NUUN, you get free Picky Bars with your order. Yum!
2. Sunglasses - I like this pair by Tifosi. My high school runners make fun of them on account of their size and color.  But, they are light, they stay on and they fit my face so even if I look like a toddler, I'm wearing them.
3. Oiselle Strappy Bra - The men can go skins, damn them.  Women, not so much.  I love this bra because it's air-conditioned...kind of.  The straps are split so there is less fabric on the shoulders.  It holds 'em down without weighing you down.  And it looks awesome.
4. Visor - Sun protection for your face and eyes without overheating your head.  Gotta let the head breathe.
5. Sweat bands - Not just for tennis players anymore.  Do not be afraid to sport these puppies on your wrists.  Soak them in water and freeze them the night before.  It cools your whole body down as you start your run.
6. Sunscreen - Given.  But I really like this kind I just found by Banana Boat because it's moisturizer and sunscreen in one.  It doesn't feel as tacky on my skin.
7. Yurbuds - Sweating buckets?  No problemo. These babies are not gonna fall out.  Ever.
8. Ipod (and back-up ipod) - Clearly it's a given that music will be on my list.  I do like to turn the volume up when it's this hot as it helps to drown out the little voice inside that tells me how nice it would feel to stop. Why a 2nd iPod you ask?  The thought of being 10 miles out and having my iPod break or run out of power...it's just...well...I just can't even think about it.
9. Popsicles - A frozen treat post run tastes SO good.  Any kind will do but I like these Yasso frozen greek yogurt bars.  They are delicious AND nutritious.
10. Post-it notes - To be displayed throughout your house with encouraging notes such as:
 - You're a badass
 - You do love running
 - Summer will end...eventually
 - You're a badass

A FINAL NOTE: The watch was left off of this list intentionally.  Use MapMyRun to plan your route and leave the watch behind.  If you need to do a speed workout, run based on effort instead of time.  Unless you are an elite athlete and training is your job, it's simply not necessary to try and hold your usual pace in this heat.  And for many of us, it's just not realistic.  Your body can only do so much.  Don't push it.  And stay cool!

...AND MUSIC

Listen to this:
Belong to the World - The Weeknd


AND DON'T FORGET:
Click here to enter the Oiselle Wings Out "PR" Necklace Giveaway.  Spread your wings and fly!

Holy Moly by DAME

Today I am excited to feature the new single Holy Moly from the Los Angeles based band, DAME.  The band is led by singer/songwriter Michelle Armstrong and has a rock-based sound with a touch of femininity (think Metric and Yeah Yeah Yeahs).  This song in particular hooks you right in with a its slow and steady build to the bridge.  Then Michelle's honey-like voice hits straight on as she cries "Call me when you're at the right time of your life".  I was so moved, I found myself wondering how the hell this person she was singing to couldn't possibly get it together.  Dame's six song LP is scheduled to be released in August and this first single is a sweet taste of what's to come.  I'm excited.  And after you listen to Holy Moly, I'm betting you will be, too.

More about Michelle:
Michelle tells me that music and exercise ALWAYS go together for her.  A woman of my own heart.  I laughed and completely understood when she admitted that she will literally turn around and leave the gym if she has forgotten her headphones and can't listen to music while she's working out.  In her own words, Michelle claims:

---> My main motivation for staying in shape is to feel MORE than able to rock out on stage - to dance AND sing without exhaustion and to confidently wear the clothes I feel my best in! Strong cardio is great for me, as it preps my control of breath and activity combined....Maintaining a positive attitude about life-- firstly in my heart and mind, is my health secret! This keeps me happy and focused on doing good. 

I am both inspired and impressed by Michelle's drive to keep herself healthy so she can do what she loves to do.  In fact, I feel like I share a similar mentality, as my main motivation for running is to feel MORE than able to be a mom, a wife and a good coach.  I secretly wish I could be a rock star, too.  Since that will never happen, I will simply rock out with DAME.  It's a solid alternative.  Many thanks to Michelle and Dame for sharing their music with RWM.  

Listen. Enjoy. Share.  Repeat.  Rock on.
Holy Moly - Dame

*Watch the Official YouTube Video

Wings Out: Oiselle & Melissa Gacek Giveaway

RUNNING...

Ready, Set, FLY!

I tend to run about 15 races a year, give or take a few.  I will do anything from a 5K, to a marathon, to a 200 mile relay with 16 team members.  I consider myself incredibly lucky that at age 38 I can still pull this off.  There are many reasons that I put these races on my calendar every year.  They give me something work for.  They take me to new places; both literally and mentally.  They give me something to look forward to.  They give me something to be nervous and excited about at the same time.  They bring me together with my fellow runners.  I love all of that.  But really, if I'm being honest here, each time I race I am secretly hoping for that PR.  The 'personal record'.  That coveted time that is better than my last.  That time that makes a runner jump for joy and feel insanely good for a day or week or year.  The time that pushes that same runner to shoot for an even faster time in the next race because, well, you just never know.  When I race I feel everything from stress to fear to joy to pain.  I reach in, dig deep, cross my fingers, and go for it.  I lay it all out there and try to set myself free.  There is no other feeling like it.  And it is that very feeling that keeps me going back to the starting line over and over and over again.  Do I want the PR?  You bet.  But it is way more than that.  I want to fly.  And racing gets me pretty damn close.

SHOW YOUR WINGS Giveaway:
In honor of the race, your race, the race you've done, or the race you plan to do, the lovely birds of Oiselle have generously donated a "Wings out" PR Necklace for one lucky RWM reader.  The necklace is designed by Oiselle team elite runner, Melissa Gacek.  To win this beauty, comment below.  Tell us why you race.  What gets you to the starting line?  Or, what brings you back to the line again?  Never raced or plan to race?  Totally fine.  Tell us what you do that inspires you to show your wings and fly.  Because we all have that one thing that sets us free.
* Note: contest is for US and Canada residents only.  The winner will be selected on Monday, July 22nd using random.org.  Good luck!

...AND MUSIC

Listen to this:
California Soul - Marlena Shaw (Diplo Remix)  

Running, Candy, Whatever

RUNNING...

Chatham Candy Manor, Chatham, MA
Grace's idea of heaven & Mom's worst nightmare.

I hate to admit this but candy is to my 6 year old what running is to me.  If you ask her her favorite food....candy.  Dessert of choice...candy.  Her answer when I asked her to choose a password for the new ChoreMonster app we just downloaded...you guessed it...candy.  If you've been reading this blog for a while, you know that I am often negotiating with this candy-loving 6 year old on a regular basis.  She doesn't like transition and often struggles with separation from mom, especially if the activity she's heading to is new.  I know I might miss this when she's older, but it's not awesome at the moment.  This week, my in-laws have been dropping her off at the bus for camp as we all agree that she's less likely to break down with them than with me.  She's a savvy kid...the "meltdown" is not really worth it when mom isn't there to get upset.  The added bonus with this drop off system is that I can head out for a run at 8:15 instead of post drop-off at 9:45.  In this summer heat, getting an earlier start is huge.  This morning we had a typical Grace/mom negotiation session before she headed off in Papa's car.  Here's how it played out:

Mom: Okay, Grace.  Are you all set to go?
Grace: I want you to drop me off.
Mom: Come on, Grace.  Papa wants to take you.
Grace: But, I want you to take me.
Mom: I'd really like to head out for my run now.
Grace: You can go after.
Mom: It's really hot out, Grace.  It's much better for me to going earlier.
Grace: But...
Mom: Remember those candies we got last year, the ones that look like rocks?  After my run I'll go grab some for you guys to have for dessert tonight.  Sound good?

The famous candy rocks.

Grace: Why can't Nana and Papa get the rocks so you can drive me?
Mom: Sorry, Grace.  I can't ask Nana and Papa to drive to Brewster to get candy for you.  If you want the rocks, you need to go jump in the car and let me go.
Grace: Fine.  Just MAKE SURE you are there to pick me up this afternoon.  Promise?
Mom: Yes Grace. I promise.

I've been told never to bribe my kids with food.  So much for that.  Yes, I'm shameless.  But if all it takes is a few chocolate rocks to make Grace's transition smoother, so be it.  I like running.  Grace likes candy.  You do what you gotta do.

....AND MUSIC

Listen to this:
Better Days - Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros  

* Note: Expected release date for this album 7/23.  Oh boy.

Happy Birthday Jack White

RUNNING & MUSIC

In honor of Jack White, undoubtedly one of the greatest musicians of our time, I am pleased to turn RWM over to guest blogger Spencer Blohm, a freelance writer, who also happens to be a runner. Enjoy!

Jack White, guitarist and vocalist who has fronted The White Stripes, The Raconteurs, and The Dead Weather,  turns 38 today, July 9th. White has been a fixture on the music scene since The White Stripes’ self-titled debut album came out in 1999. Since then, he has released another five albums with The White Stripes, as well as numerous other projects including two albums with The Raconteurs, and two with The Dead Weather. He has also found success as a solo artist in recent years with two critically praised solo albums. 

Through the years Jack has been able to fuel many workouts and runs with his signature energetic alt/rock music. I’m sure you’re familiar with the concept of beats per minute in songs and how they help motivate you on your run, so let’s take a look at some of Jack’s songs you can add to your running playlist to help motivate you and to also celebrate his birthday!

“Seven Nation Army” by The White Stripes With 123 beats per minute this iconic White Stripes song is the perfect starter song for people who are unfamiliar with Jack’s work. The infamous guitar riff that underlies most of the song sets the perfect tempo for a nice run.

“Blue Orchid” by The White Stripes  This bass-heavy song has the highest bpm (152) of any song White has released. This is the perfect song for that mid-run rush we’ve all experienced, or a good motivator towards the end of your run.

“Blunderbuss” by Jack White  A song from his first solo album, “Blunderbuss” clocks in at 78 bpm, which requires you to run at double the pace of the song, but is the perfect rate for those running around a 9:30 mile.

“I’m Shakin” by Jack White  This upbeat, Grammy nominated song is the perfect fit for those running around a 9 minute mile since it has 81 bpm. Just be warned, the 60’s/gospel undertones may make you break into a spontaneous dance mid-run.

“Blue Blood Blues” by The Dead Weather  This jam, created by the supergroup The Dead Weather is perfect for those who are big fans of Jack’s music. It’s also great for those faster runners (around a 6:30 mile) this song sets the perfect pace when it’s bpm of 92 is doubled for your run.

Author Bio: Spencer Blohm is a freelance entertainment blogger for Direct2TV. When not busy catching up on the latest entertainment news he spends countless hours searching for the perfecting running songs. He lives in Chicago with his cat Rupert who, unlike his owner, doesn’t seem to be that interested in being active, ever.

*A special thank you to Spencer for his contribution to RUNNINGWITHMUSIC.  And a very happy birthday to Mr. White.

And So Is....

RUNNING....

Running is awesome.  And so is...

Flying in a tire swing with your sister.

Beekeeping with Gran

Jumping off the 'Jaws' Bridge in

Martha's Vineyard 

Doing loopdeeloops in the 

Red Baron with Grandaddy

Biking with dad

LOTS of things are awesome.  Many thanks to my girls for helping me see the bigger picture lately.

...AND MUSIC

Listen to this:

Don't Deny Your Heart - Hot Chip     

Race Review: Murdick's Run the Chop

RUNNING...

Yesterday I ran the Murdick's Run the Chop 5 Miler in Vineyard Haven, MA.  Over the past couple years, it's become a tradition for my husband and I to do this one together.  Running is not really his "thing" and he rarely races, so to have him come with me is a treat.  The first time we did this race, 4 years ago I think, there were maybe a couple hundred participants.  We could sense how small it was because the race director had us all waiting at the starting line for the handful of runners who were still in line for the bathroom.  As a result, we started about 10 minutes late which didn't seem to bother anyone.  He also mentioned that there may or may not be mile markers as he had put them out the night before but hadn't checked to make sure they were still there that morning.  But it was all good.  It was July 4th, everyone was in a good mood, and most of us where just there to have a good time and get some exercise.  This year, the race had it's biggest turnout ever with over 500 people.  We could definitely sense the change, as everything was a bit more organized, the race organizers had rented a port-o-potty to ease the bathroom line, and the crowd of runners looked a bit more serious and into the competition.  Mind you, it was still  a pretty light-hearted scene...lots of families, tons of people in red, white and blue get-ups, and this guy, who has been at the start of the race on his motorcycle with his dog in the side car every year that we have run.  You can't see it in the pic, but the dog has a red, white and blue jacket on to match his owner's pants and hat.  Amazing.

Back in 2011, I was the first female across the line and in addition to a trophy, I won a gift certificate for a pound, that's right ONE POUND of fudge, presented to me by Mr. Murdick himself.  I was over the moon that I had won the race.  My kids, however, were way more excited about the popsicles that they were handing out at the end, and the fact that they could go pick out a boat-load of fudge at Murdicks.  This year, my kids couldn't come because they had camp, but they did tell me that they REALLY hoped I brought home the fudge again this year.  No pressure, mom.  The race started at 9:00 and, as it always seems to be, it was really freakin' hot.  This year we had the added bonus of the humidity, which seems to be at an all time high at the moment and hasn't broken for several days.  My performance was not quite as...um...smooth as the first few years I ran.  My first couple miles were pretty solid but it all went downhill after mile 3.  The heat and humidity grabbed hold and took me down.  The sun, which hasn't been out for a week, decided it was ready to shine down on us in all it's glory right after the start.  That was awesome.  I trudged through the last couple miles, willing my feet to move, leaning heavily on my music and the knowledge that there were strawberry popsicles waiting for me at the finish line.  Fortunately, I did not let my kids down as I was the first female across the line again this year.  My time was 34 minutes and change.  I never got my official time.  And, to be totally honest, I didn't really care what it was.  I was so happy to be done that I literally almost hugged the EMT standing next to the ambulance after I walked through the finish shoot.  She congratulated me and looked worried at the same time.  After I few minutes, I regained my compsoure (sort of) and was led over to accept my trophy and my gift certificate for the fudge from Mr. Murdick.

Note the 1st place male finisher's patriotic shorts.  I really
 need to get myself a pair of these babies for next year.

When I picked my 6 year old from camp later that afternoon the first thing she said was, "so, did you get the fudge?"  Yes, Grace, I did get the fudge.  A few minutes later my 8 year old barreled through the door at home and asked the same question.  I showed her the trophy first as I thought she would think it was cool.  Her response, "yea, but where's the fudge?"  Okay, so we all have our priorities.   The girls got the fudge.  And I got the satisfaction.  We all won.  Yippee!!!

...AND MUSIC

Listen to this:

Doin' it Right - Daft Punk  

CELEBRATE

WHEN WE RUN, WE ARE FREE

Listen to this:

Dreams - TV on the Radio  

One of THOSE Runs

RUNNING...

July 1, 2013

Today's Weather:

Today I ran 10 miles.   It was one of those.......holy crap this air is thicker than molasses...it kind of feels like I am plodding through cement...my Garmin must be broken because there is no way I could be running that slowly...actually, it does feel like I'm running pretty slowly...I wonder if I'm coming down with something because I'm feeling a little feverish...I really want to stop right now...I'm sweating so much that my "no-slip" earphones are slipping...I don't think I have ever been thirstier than I am right this second...wow, I hope I don't look as bad as that guy does...sweet Pete, I am only at mile 5...oh come on, it has rained every day since last Thursday and the sun is coming out now...really??...right now?...dammit, the mosquitos are out in full force...I am seriously considering shaving my head when I get home...wow, the smell of manure has got to be at an all time high...what the hell was I thinking when I headed out today...I really should have gone inside and ran on the treadmill...maybe if I turn up the volume on my music I will stop thinking about how brutal this is...

 --->insert long moment of silence & lots of heavy breathing here <--- 

...okay, Rebecca, let's go...one foot, then the other, come on....you are almost done...wow, this last mile is taking FOREVER........kind of runs.  It was easily one of my top 10 hardest (both mentally and physically) runs of all time.  And, yet, once it was over, I thought to myself, as only a crazy runner would....man, that run kind of sucked but I am definitely a stronger and better runner for having gotten it done..and I feel pretty freakin' badass, too.

BOOYAH!

...AND MUSIC

Listen to this:

Pretty Boy - Young Galaxy