tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30867509707650270992024-03-23T03:17:10.887-07:00RUNNING WITH MUSIC Masters runner & music lover with a coffee problem. Crazy about my kids, miles, music & mochas. RUNNINGWITHMUSIChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08229272359508846579noreply@blogger.comBlogger787125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086750970765027099.post-15888914576109449832024-03-20T11:01:00.000-07:002024-03-21T04:02:43.685-07:00BOSTON BEATS - A MUSIC COLLAB<div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #800180;">"I looked out this morning and the sun was gone</span></span></div><span style="color: #800180;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Turned on some music to start my day</span></div></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I lost myself in a familiar song</span></div></span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #800180;">I closed my eyes and I slipped away"</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">~ 'More Than A Feeling', <b>Boston</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b><br /></b></span></div></span></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2DywFUINd0Pexdyb_ntXH6d-z_hKJUaipQnWT6a7P1CHlHfzbSWut3Cq7uGcs2xgOEqJT85PRpwVfJTC494rGMh63oiTklCDeSXoHmEiKWAo06FVy1BZ-7c8oaPY3YtCwmh-Ms3b2a7xedw1F3Gp0E3hnw0oy59R9cIm1p7R6VXQSkNZ_XCidiu477vk/s3088/IMG_0211.HEIC" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3088" data-original-width="2316" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2DywFUINd0Pexdyb_ntXH6d-z_hKJUaipQnWT6a7P1CHlHfzbSWut3Cq7uGcs2xgOEqJT85PRpwVfJTC494rGMh63oiTklCDeSXoHmEiKWAo06FVy1BZ-7c8oaPY3YtCwmh-Ms3b2a7xedw1F3Gp0E3hnw0oy59R9cIm1p7R6VXQSkNZ_XCidiu477vk/s320/IMG_0211.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div>This just in…less than 4 weeks until the Boston Marathon. Gah! Back in 2016, I profiled my friend, Kara Goucher, in my <a href="https://runningwithmusic.blogspot.com/2016/12/rwrmeet-kara-mom-pro-runner.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #b45f06;">RUNNERS WHO ROCK</span></a> series and specifically asked what her top five songs were for running and/or dancing. Given the time I'd spent with her on the dance floor, I wasn't surprised that her picks were straight up pop. I mean, you really can’t go wrong with that as far as I'm concerned. Recently, I asked her to give me an updated list of favorites & she went full send with 80s tunes. Which, in my opinion, also tends to be a sure thing for running and dancing. Tho, there are some gems from that decade that do have a pretty high cheese factor. <a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/1mCsF9Tw4AkIZOjvZbZZdT?si=c6f7458ab8d84dc6" target="_blank"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>Break My Stride</b></span></a>? Anyone?? No disrespect to my friend, Nicole, who could play this one on repeat. Anyway, I took my own go-tos from back in 2016 as well as today & combined them with Kara’s to make what we think is a pretty killer playlist. So whether you run with music or just need some motivation for these last few weeks, I’m guessing there is something on here that you’ll like. That said, we do have about four more weeks of training & we always need more music. So here’s what I propose. Throw your current favorite in the comments of <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C4tH2aJLhpP/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">this Instagram post</span></b></a> so I can make this playlist longer and better. Because let’s be honest, we all have another 20 miler to get through before April 15th and we might as well do it with some good tunes if we're running on our own. <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvjt0Z38n8MuSmQq5FSE9dfczxR2ZJTrowLr1lipXg0RyRCFu7g3WNaKyrKTqdzzf3BuTaKiePsXQEY1MDeftg9CQlTrgB6FWkQsXKmopPAOYiuSUnBV5x5ZuGE6L9QSv31cRSz2xi3dhk-SKALWbUR__wBzw6lad-xewLTNfM-7OO6XDyrzhrXaAwFys/s5059/IMG_3010.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4283" data-original-width="5059" height="339" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvjt0Z38n8MuSmQq5FSE9dfczxR2ZJTrowLr1lipXg0RyRCFu7g3WNaKyrKTqdzzf3BuTaKiePsXQEY1MDeftg9CQlTrgB6FWkQsXKmopPAOYiuSUnBV5x5ZuGE6L9QSv31cRSz2xi3dhk-SKALWbUR__wBzw6lad-xewLTNfM-7OO6XDyrzhrXaAwFys/w400-h339/IMG_3010.HEIC" width="400" /></a></div><p>And to make things a little more interesting (ok, yes, and because I really want you to share your music picks with me) I will sweeten the deal a bit. At the end of the week, I'll pick 5 random people who contribute to win a prize from the above stash. This is fun. And I need more fun in my life right now. We all do. Whether you're into sharing or not, at the minimum, enjoy the playlist for running or doing whatever it is that you love to do. Rock on.</p><h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">BOSTON BEATS BY RWM KG & YOU</span></h3><div><span style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></span></div>
<iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="352" loading="lazy" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/playlist/1pOsh8cvAUkFw7C1hlxvo4?utm_source=generator" style="border-radius: 12px;" width="100%"></iframe>RUNNINGWITHMUSIChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08229272359508846579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086750970765027099.post-33917964552095013972024-03-01T08:21:00.000-08:002024-03-01T08:27:30.019-08:00RWR:MEET LAURA GREEN-RUNNER, MOM, COMEDIAN<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(128, 1, 128); color: #800180; text-align: left;"><i>"I’m a fairly unemotional person day to day. Even keeled. Stoic. </i></span><i style="caret-color: rgb(128, 1, 128); color: #800180; text-align: left;">But once music is involved, that facade fades pretty fast and puts me straight into the song."</i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">~ Laura Green</span></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5-SK_nd8lrhyphenhyphenrj3nOXGaWDqbyjY5Xw2O-guqwQmkfEGY2e_rAZxpXc2shg8A3EP1Wy9-fGOprr8EsTDz_X8c3Kv3ImA6EjfQqvXV4O90I_fk8r1YxqiYvaq_4m61yr-frx54MH6581MTZ_XGN6PsOasbiYa7kGBc2lTrB0uEY3cL57NCBePyEJnuH4eg/s1336/Screenshot%202024-03-01%20at%209.28.32%E2%80%AFAM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1336" data-original-width="887" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5-SK_nd8lrhyphenhyphenrj3nOXGaWDqbyjY5Xw2O-guqwQmkfEGY2e_rAZxpXc2shg8A3EP1Wy9-fGOprr8EsTDz_X8c3Kv3ImA6EjfQqvXV4O90I_fk8r1YxqiYvaq_4m61yr-frx54MH6581MTZ_XGN6PsOasbiYa7kGBc2lTrB0uEY3cL57NCBePyEJnuH4eg/s320/Screenshot%202024-03-01%20at%209.28.32%E2%80%AFAM.png" width="212" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">So her name is <b><span style="color: #800180;">Laura Green</span></b>. I'm guessing many of you are familiar with her. And if you're not, you should be. She's kind of big deal. But in a super unique way. Basically, she makes fun of running, runners (herself and others) and most things running related on a regular basis. And her posts, which incorporate this humor, are not only hilarious but, more often than not, are completely relatable. Meaning, you are the person she's making fun of (yes, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CqvR61HsBnn/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #b45f06;">this is me</span></a>) or you know that person she's laughing at or you've met that person but and you really hope you never have to hang out with them again but then maybe you do because it's freaking great content. Green is former middle distance runner for Northeastern and an avid runner herself. A couple years ago she began creating her funny skits and sharing them with friends who then encouraged her to share them with others. At the same time she realized there was a notable space for humor in our otherwise very serious run world, so she kept going. I discovered her around February of 2023. She already had a sizable following by then so I was a bit late on the uptake. I was in the thick of training for the Boston marathon and one of my training partners sent me <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CoCnRGCpuRz/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #b45f06;">this post</span></a> which I freaking loved for obvious reasons. And then proceeded to share with everyone else in my running circle because I knew they'd both get it and appreciate it. Soon I found myself making a point to check her <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lauramcgreen/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Instagram</span></a> page daily for a quick laugh before heading out to start my own day. In her own words she's a " a comedic content creator who aims to get runners and run industry folk to have a good laugh at themselves." Check and check. Because we all need more of this in our lives. Or, at the very least, I do. She does other things. She's a mom of two with a third on the way. She's a physical therapist. She's probably wearing many other hats but she really doesn't talk about herself much beyond the comedic world that she shares with us. Which is more than enough. Okay, that's enough from my end. Let's learn more about the fabulous <span style="color: #800180;">Laura Green</span>, a <b><span style="color: #b45f06;">RUNNER WHO ROCKS</span></b>.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">RWR: </span><span style="color: #800180;">LAURA MCGREEN </span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDIBeQJBqOIDvZKIXsH9jQsASeUMlwdJufItj9liLkOv4N17LlN2zvWQSbGg9l94SM8_CBbMi_nmt20mrHXgQ36GD_m6IxMhIuPjy6v9Wgd_-ArZAQODaxxTjX2XCiMfU80pT8lkwLRFZ0U12EmjeXos8SAqaQg4DaSmjfs-LhqNzssE_5owx0fF5n3Pk/s800/1676044817366.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDIBeQJBqOIDvZKIXsH9jQsASeUMlwdJufItj9liLkOv4N17LlN2zvWQSbGg9l94SM8_CBbMi_nmt20mrHXgQ36GD_m6IxMhIuPjy6v9Wgd_-ArZAQODaxxTjX2XCiMfU80pT8lkwLRFZ0U12EmjeXos8SAqaQg4DaSmjfs-LhqNzssE_5owx0fF5n3Pk/w200-h200/1676044817366.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><span style="color: #b45f06;">Name: </span><span style="color: #800180;">Laura Green </span><br /><span style="color: #b45f06;">Where you're from: </span><span style="color: #800180;">Hopewell Jct, NY</span><br /><span style="color: #b45f06;">Where you reside now: </span><span style="color: #800180;">Cambridge, MA</span><br /><span style="color: #b45f06;">Age (if you're ok sharing): </span><span style="color: #800180;">37</span><br /><span style="color: #b45f06;">Occupation: </span><span style="color: #800180;">Content Creator/Physical Therapist </span><br /><span style="color: #b45f06;">Blog/website: </span><a href="http://lauramcgreen.com"><span style="color: #800180;">lauramcgreen.com</span></a></div><div><span style="color: #800180;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(128, 1, 128);"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #800180;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcP-9logKKXqRwirWYcPks16UGym5uQXzQWlPFDrbRXDvwbEgoCFyfMErzCO5Jb1wL0R2uwDAm4lkGY1cj2bH196fBhzlzDG71N8xovEFNgo7YAj0t6zoPJLDrA9hPWA9Ntkc78iurE_qpTdTlprM5UT2YD5OW-NBeMI1kGsQQ9fenXd4NdjAhqOnMXm4/s1728/Screenshot%202024-03-01%20at%208.35.55%E2%80%AFAM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1022" data-original-width="1728" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcP-9logKKXqRwirWYcPks16UGym5uQXzQWlPFDrbRXDvwbEgoCFyfMErzCO5Jb1wL0R2uwDAm4lkGY1cj2bH196fBhzlzDG71N8xovEFNgo7YAj0t6zoPJLDrA9hPWA9Ntkc78iurE_qpTdTlprM5UT2YD5OW-NBeMI1kGsQQ9fenXd4NdjAhqOnMXm4/w400-h236/Screenshot%202024-03-01%20at%208.35.55%E2%80%AFAM.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">*src:Northeastern Global News</span></div><span style="caret-color: rgb(128, 1, 128);"><br /></span></span><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>ON RUNNING & MUSIC:</b></span><br /><span style="color: #b45f06;">What do you love most about running? </span></div><div><span style="color: #800180;">The way you just start gliding when you get into a good rhythm of training. </span><br /><span style="color: #b45f06;">What do you love most about music? </span></div><div><span style="color: #800180;">I’m a fairly unemotional person day to day. Even keeled. Stoic. But once music is involved, that facade fades pretty fast and puts me straight into the song. </span><br /><br /></div><div><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>LAURA'S FAVORITES:</b><br />Band (current, all time or both): </span><span style="color: #800180;"><b>Third Eye Blind </b>(All time) </span><br /><span style="color: #b45f06;">Album (current, all time or both): </span><span style="color: #800180;"><b>Florence and the machine</b> - <i>Ceremonials</i></span><br /><span style="color: #b45f06;">Race venue: </span><span style="color: #800180;"><b>Marin, CA-</b> fire roads and rolling single track for trail races that just make you feel like you’re floating above the clouds</span><br /><span style="color: #b45f06;">Music venue: </span><span style="color: #800180;"><b>SPAC</b> - Certainly not the nicest venue, but it’s where a lot of my high school live music memories take place so it has sentimental value. </span><br /><span style="color: #b45f06;">Race distance: </span><span style="color: #800180;"><b>10K</b></span><br /><span style="color: #b45f06;">Show you've seen live: </span><span style="color: #800180;"><b>Guster</b> - It was the first live show I ever saw and so it holds a special place in my heart </span><br /><span style="color: #b45f06;">Ice cream flavor: </span><span style="color: #800180;"><b>Cookie Dough</b></span><br /><span style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuIvjJiPUFh0S6iv5jrrR1O1MlC63mjiIH7TkvIsuvh-VzJGQTtsoHZ-bJjaK8fbLWO_8Z0KW28LTYxocjc5r_55_EFYhbRvFiN0lI6B4tVqHj5oNCbEJBoljRrCUfVw03M4OktqeMPmp7jeGD41kJHxdOkoUCg2mywJWKnJBBMVPmDA4x6YO4ZScr_cU/s494/Screenshot%202024-03-01%20at%2010.02.39%E2%80%AFAM.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="494" data-original-width="460" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuIvjJiPUFh0S6iv5jrrR1O1MlC63mjiIH7TkvIsuvh-VzJGQTtsoHZ-bJjaK8fbLWO_8Z0KW28LTYxocjc5r_55_EFYhbRvFiN0lI6B4tVqHj5oNCbEJBoljRrCUfVw03M4OktqeMPmp7jeGD41kJHxdOkoUCg2mywJWKnJBBMVPmDA4x6YO4ZScr_cU/w186-h200/Screenshot%202024-03-01%20at%2010.02.39%E2%80%AFAM.png" width="186" /></a></div><br /><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>THIS OR THAT?</b></span><br /><span style="color: #b45f06;">Sweet or salty? </span><span style="color: #800180;">Sweet</span><br /><span style="color: #b45f06;">Live or recorded? </span><span style="color: #800180;">Live </span><br /><span style="color: #b45f06;">Coffee or tea? </span><span style="color: #800180;">Coffee</span><br /><span style="color: #b45f06;">Summer or winter? </span><span style="color: #800180;">For running - Winter</span><br /><span style="color: #b45f06;"> </span><br /><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>MORE MUSIC INFO:</b></span><br /><span style="color: #b45f06;">Which band or artist would you go see tonight if you could? </span><span style="color: #800180;"><b>Florence and the Machine</b></span><br /><span style="color: #b45f06;">Which band or artist (wait...but no longer alive or playing together) would you go see tonight if you could? </span><span style="color: #800180;"><b>Whitney Houston</b></span><br /><span style="color: #b45f06;">Which band or artist would you like to have dinner with tonight if you could? </span><b><span style="color: #800180;">The National</span></b><br /><span style="color: #b45f06;">Which band or artist would you like to be playing alongside you during your next race (or long run)? </span><span style="color: #800180;"><b>The Killers <br /></b></span><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRp6MWulHZsnh_Lce_m8xu0dUPeqCuzwlbIAMgdaqipkigLiWxB4T4vBNzbqVL_PY5XxLVN10LV3-hBe648l0j2b_4138m15WUTL-aMisjP1usmusfa1Rcep7TOK3PzbgDQOKLwoWzocPVjpwi1n1gEFd7BNPCtWmjrJJW0LENhAdBSOlaHlEsYRfKw78/s2880/florence_and_the_machine_wide-9999f43a32faf45755b8872a3194bbcb74fce0bd.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1620" data-original-width="2880" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRp6MWulHZsnh_Lce_m8xu0dUPeqCuzwlbIAMgdaqipkigLiWxB4T4vBNzbqVL_PY5XxLVN10LV3-hBe648l0j2b_4138m15WUTL-aMisjP1usmusfa1Rcep7TOK3PzbgDQOKLwoWzocPVjpwi1n1gEFd7BNPCtWmjrJJW0LENhAdBSOlaHlEsYRfKw78/w400-h225/florence_and_the_machine_wide-9999f43a32faf45755b8872a3194bbcb74fce0bd.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180; font-size: x-small;"><b>Florence Welch</b> of Florence and the Machine (src: NPR)</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>LAST ONE:</b><br />Today, I feel like...(fill in the blank): </span><span style="color: #800180;">the most productive human alive. </span><br /><br /></div><div><b style="color: #b45f06;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2b6ZMQE6m-VL2JzDM2xzHBR1v1-NVKY_JaJHqSUkVV4J71ekcekU-yOW-oGD2FyaHSNWxzeWTbWqrMkRWJ_n9JYAD2SvezvfMHZLiJ1GGnWCKHkmSGvV4OB3vU23SniIDgO94qHrErtDMV0EMNUP7jGExDDOWNowC8n_a09iUSQusWc9ZQ61XtkFEnL8/s1366/Screenshot%202024-02-29%20at%201.43.38%E2%80%AFPM.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1366" data-original-width="706" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2b6ZMQE6m-VL2JzDM2xzHBR1v1-NVKY_JaJHqSUkVV4J71ekcekU-yOW-oGD2FyaHSNWxzeWTbWqrMkRWJ_n9JYAD2SvezvfMHZLiJ1GGnWCKHkmSGvV4OB3vU23SniIDgO94qHrErtDMV0EMNUP7jGExDDOWNowC8n_a09iUSQusWc9ZQ61XtkFEnL8/w206-h400/Screenshot%202024-02-29%20at%201.43.38%E2%80%AFPM.png" width="206" /></a></div><div><b style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></b></div><div><b style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></b></div>Top 5 Songs for running, dancing or both?</b><br /><span style="color: #800180;">Free - Florence and the Machine <br />Motorcycle Driveby - Third Eye Blind<br />HandClap - Fitz and the tantrums<br />Dial Drunk- Noah Kahan<br />Alaska - Maggie Rogers </span><br /><br /></div><div><b style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></b></div><div><b style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></b></div><div><b style="color: #b45f06;">Last 5 Songs you listened to today?</b><br /><span style="color: #800180;">Frozen- Frozen Heart<br />Frozen- Do you want to build a snowman? <br />Frozen- For the first time in forever <br />Spooky Scary Skeletons<br />Moana- we Know The Way <br />(Can you tell I have kids?)</span></div><div><span style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></span></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="color: #b45f06;">Listen to this:</span></div><div><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/47wtXjG0Sk6DI6cjkRBcEg?si=8c321bc961794eda" target="_blank"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>Motorcycle Drive By</b></span></a> <span style="color: #b45f06;">by Third Eye Blind</span></div>
<iframe allow="autoplay" frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/205005420&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true" width="100%"></iframe><div style="color: #cccccc; font-family: Interstate, "Lucida Grande", "Lucida Sans Unicode", "Lucida Sans", Garuda, Verdana, Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-weight: 100; line-break: anywhere; overflow: hidden; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap; word-break: normal;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/thirdeyeblind" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="Third Eye Blind">Third Eye Blind</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/thirdeyeblind/motorcycle-drive-by" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="Motorcycle Drive By (2006 Remaster)">Motorcycle Drive By (2006 Remaster)</a></div>RUNNINGWITHMUSIChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08229272359508846579noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086750970765027099.post-63177676484120122812024-02-13T08:25:00.000-08:002024-02-13T11:44:15.004-08:00RACE REVIEW:SUPER SUNDAY 4 MILER<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">"We got the dream team</span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">We're feelin' wide awake</span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">We got the dream team</span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">We're goin' all the way"</span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">~ 'Dreamteam', Galantis</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1D6uiS6Wj0PHGo3jiATjc4vFCLAWpCIsQvtZ-lQm3hZA1MGELJgPbVEbqJlKF6B_VxsdYyU1KZldf3dsTW1u97zT2v8ukDZLxAka0RAkNTLqi3wNgknmFppwR43ggjQ8TKFWEgOGEasUenYV_5Yr9miC7FuQ0BhgLrO9RbreX2gqNmOfdVZVCX-Xm2sc/s1092/logo_supersunday_2024.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1032" data-original-width="1092" height="189" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1D6uiS6Wj0PHGo3jiATjc4vFCLAWpCIsQvtZ-lQm3hZA1MGELJgPbVEbqJlKF6B_VxsdYyU1KZldf3dsTW1u97zT2v8ukDZLxAka0RAkNTLqi3wNgknmFppwR43ggjQ8TKFWEgOGEasUenYV_5Yr9miC7FuQ0BhgLrO9RbreX2gqNmOfdVZVCX-Xm2sc/w200-h189/logo_supersunday_2024.png" width="200" /></a></div>It's been a minute since my last race review. Three months to be exact. I took some solid time off after my last big race, regrouped, spent some quality time with my family not worrying at all about training, and then I got back on the horse in January in preparation for Boston which is a mere nine weeks away. And that alone is kind of blowing my mind. But that's not for today. Sunday morning I headed up to Bedford, NH for the <a href="https://www.millenniumrunning.com/supersunday4miler" target="_blank"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Super Sunday 4 Miler</span></a> which I was doing with my team. This is the first in a series that we do together throughout the year and given that I've been cranking out most of my mileage solo these past few weeks, I was excited to get up there and see everyone. As far as the race itself? Mmmm. Yea. No. Not as thrilled about that. For a few different reasons. But good to get uncomfortable, though. Makes us stronger. Or something. Ok, here we go.</div></span><span style="text-align: left;"> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv5Zo8vu1rv0dvKKX6qTx9-cPGUbtbzGbYeQ7BeEUORGADzp2ziTrj1JoiS3gCvlfxlzOwPmy1zjiH3h2sKLayx4epumrDsN9De98UCUrJiuxVx2QsqG6ryQWAi2HhvTeHUuZv_LzjNLm3P4ACLPc-q0c_lqFM8VEy6z_q2oDTj6VX9TUwV8ox9loZPT0/s640/IMG_2415.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv5Zo8vu1rv0dvKKX6qTx9-cPGUbtbzGbYeQ7BeEUORGADzp2ziTrj1JoiS3gCvlfxlzOwPmy1zjiH3h2sKLayx4epumrDsN9De98UCUrJiuxVx2QsqG6ryQWAi2HhvTeHUuZv_LzjNLm3P4ACLPc-q0c_lqFM8VEy6z_q2oDTj6VX9TUwV8ox9loZPT0/s320/IMG_2415.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Sunday morning I rolled out of bed around 5:30 to meet up with Clover for a coffee. That's right, my dog. When the coffee machine turns on, she knows breakfast is coming shortly afterwards so her company is pretty much a sure thing. We had a nice bonding session as we waited for the day to lighten up a bit before heading out for our walk. Yes, I do have another dog. He prefers to sleep late on the weekends. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Wp3l6pAkCpqNA9sQUV-GT6hYEocaLLJQDU2QqQDWfqAG0xm5E5SYpTIMiWoAB07BT4YHQnrCRVuQKO3twAb2rVx7Hyu2Ubx3ni0GbzU24xl2rEpcPuHcTXSiQzSemnM2UtM3E40QVMbrL_44bZ0jFQa-3_knbRHLFF5SWew8O2ZnU8_FW0aBkRAONUg/s640/IMG_2420.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Wp3l6pAkCpqNA9sQUV-GT6hYEocaLLJQDU2QqQDWfqAG0xm5E5SYpTIMiWoAB07BT4YHQnrCRVuQKO3twAb2rVx7Hyu2Ubx3ni0GbzU24xl2rEpcPuHcTXSiQzSemnM2UtM3E40QVMbrL_44bZ0jFQa-3_knbRHLFF5SWew8O2ZnU8_FW0aBkRAONUg/s320/IMG_2420.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It was a lovely morning with temps in the low 40s; 41 to be exact. This was a gift given that it is February in New England. Clover sniffed and ate sticks. I enjoyed my second cup and made a playlist for the race. Time well spent for both of us. We got back around 7:00 and I had to turn it around pretty quickly because the trip to Bedford is about an hour and the race start was at 9:30. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5IQg9g3POxS_NDzEerxVlGg6CaFtqGBH9BOweGLsNguCny8IzXUQs7rQeDhjAGF5eaANPIOh4UdV2WEQpGepM4yb9ndV7S4r7kC-0IzxqChkRXJ1ZLjG7uBiDupMi9tSjp1EGsZ4ZN2n5_-r2X4Oa71Afo0j-TyNzkvtoqvid8WjwzNKWfbNV230TsJI/s640/IMG_2422.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5IQg9g3POxS_NDzEerxVlGg6CaFtqGBH9BOweGLsNguCny8IzXUQs7rQeDhjAGF5eaANPIOh4UdV2WEQpGepM4yb9ndV7S4r7kC-0IzxqChkRXJ1ZLjG7uBiDupMi9tSjp1EGsZ4ZN2n5_-r2X4Oa71Afo0j-TyNzkvtoqvid8WjwzNKWfbNV230TsJI/s320/IMG_2422.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>I'm not gonna lie, it's been so long since I've raced that I had a little moment of panic when trying to decide which shoes to bring. So, I brought them all. I know. What can I say? You've done it, too. I know you have. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrxFtT2wP6V_NgUedl7hZlKZlgRWFkYQS1-ubRyUoWB0UzkcTYneT4-bgyY2EqdwFzNxqhxcZpV-_tS4L6CX6HR1PXbFTIqjZA5Dn08wUB5zlO2Jz7L_vdt3pvFkCyEofmy5PWWaED9WlDEnADqmh3Tk33KF-j25ex_kZd_isJrglpOHSWidzVyw5WdXY/s671/IMG_2441.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="671" data-original-width="671" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrxFtT2wP6V_NgUedl7hZlKZlgRWFkYQS1-ubRyUoWB0UzkcTYneT4-bgyY2EqdwFzNxqhxcZpV-_tS4L6CX6HR1PXbFTIqjZA5Dn08wUB5zlO2Jz7L_vdt3pvFkCyEofmy5PWWaED9WlDEnADqmh3Tk33KF-j25ex_kZd_isJrglpOHSWidzVyw5WdXY/s320/IMG_2441.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It was an easy trip up which is always nice. I parked in what felt like two towns over and then ran down to find my teammates. My girl, Amy C., had already gotten my bib so pre-race was low stress situation for a change. We all put our gear in Lauren's car and headed out for our warmup. Some of us needed to make a pit stop at the bathrooms so Lauren, Morgan and I did about 10 out and backs on the main road as we waited for our crew to deal and join back up with us. We hadn't seen each other in so long so the fact that we were basically running in place did not bother me as I was just enjoying catching up with them and being in their company.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo46_pbqIY1zIG5AktDdth5WYet9PHsKYOGNWoZKMNcDqIIy683M_L65KgJ6VrOD1B8yrfbBZE86h4SfnzYsYRBZWvLoc-HFNRMIn8ifQWkULCzGHufdEcDJzFsMP9fhQq7ZRo8caNksVaRxeZPJawzcppyT3j0CE_7URWPARxMa5ceJRPitnirEzC8vU/s640/0.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="602" data-original-width="640" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo46_pbqIY1zIG5AktDdth5WYet9PHsKYOGNWoZKMNcDqIIy683M_L65KgJ6VrOD1B8yrfbBZE86h4SfnzYsYRBZWvLoc-HFNRMIn8ifQWkULCzGHufdEcDJzFsMP9fhQq7ZRo8caNksVaRxeZPJawzcppyT3j0CE_7URWPARxMa5ceJRPitnirEzC8vU/s320/0.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I promised Dave, our team manager, that I would try and get a lot of photos for our new Instagram account which you can find <a href="https://www.instagram.com/whirlawayracingteam/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #b45f06;">here</span></a>. Shameless plug. Sorry not sorry. Seriously, though, I was having a blast jumping around to find all the different groups of people from our team. I might have also been in denial that I did, in fact, have to race. Oh, riiiiight. The race. Okay, so yes, I've been training for Boston. But I've had a lot going on in my life since January. More than usual. Some of it very stressful. And as a result, my training has been average, at best. Let's just say I've had more bad days than good. Particularly this past week leading up to this specific race. It was legit hot garbage. I get nervous all the time before races. It's healthy and I think it ultimately makes me run better. But for this one, the fear had seeped in much deeper than usual. I just did not feel ready for this type of effort. Like, at all. I'd decided, with my coach, that I'd start off in control at about 70% effort for the first couple miles and then try to progress down the rest of the race. But, in the truth, I didn't even know what "in control" was going to feel like and this was daunting. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK298cbj-FKo6tLc8PC-_HNf0scI1_3D4YsJxn75m0q31Jwz4SZaR81HOfsS1j7Yf50dQBKY9vBCBPLCJ3T11QLVQd4_NRFcM6o4K2nMJ3TXf7FWyve2Pz-vAIGp6st6b2vZNJ8NYgNqIZLmCzcAWwr_mwa4Y-VpsXOwpZRinB6-mjaWUxYPvA1Nki5Fw/s4096/IMG_2482.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2731" data-original-width="4096" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK298cbj-FKo6tLc8PC-_HNf0scI1_3D4YsJxn75m0q31Jwz4SZaR81HOfsS1j7Yf50dQBKY9vBCBPLCJ3T11QLVQd4_NRFcM6o4K2nMJ3TXf7FWyve2Pz-vAIGp6st6b2vZNJ8NYgNqIZLmCzcAWwr_mwa4Y-VpsXOwpZRinB6-mjaWUxYPvA1Nki5Fw/w400-h266/IMG_2482.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">THE RACE</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After about 10 warmup strides, because desperate times and all, I made my way over to the start. We were packed in tight like sardines and it was ridiculously uncomfortable. Granted, it's usually like this in a start corral, but still. For some reason, I couldn't deal with it and was having to take some deep breaths as I waited to go. My teammate, Morgan, can attest that things were significantly more chaotic than usual. One woman next to us was facing the wrong direction and screaming loudly for her friend for what seemed like a very long time. It was odd. Finally, at 9:30, they blew the horn. I eased in and tried to stay calm as the rest of the crowd took off around me. Literally, flying by. I checked my watch and it said 6:10. Nope, I thought to myself. I'm not doing this. I had no business starting at this pace given my fitness and state of mind these past couple weeks so I backed off and repositioned myself. I crossed the first mile in 6:20 which felt manageable. Okay, I said, this is okay. I think I can do this. I had borrowed my daughter's shirt to wear under my singlet and it was a wee bit small so my watch was now sitting snuggly under the very tight left sleeve and there was no way to see it without making a legitimate effort to move the shirt back so I let it be. The rest of the race would be run by feel and I was good with that. For mile 2, I focused on my breathing, staying calm and trying to hold onto my pace. No big moves. For 3 and 4, I worked to pick it up a bit. I wanted to see if I could find another gear. Nothing major. Just a little more. I focused on passing people who had started out too fast. And we both know there are always plenty of those, myself included more times than not. But not for this one. Rather than think about how hard I was working and how much it hurt, which it did, I just focused on everyone in front of me and trying to gain a better position for the finish so I could score for my team.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh62Gd5y20ddNIcNs6VI1wEZFu00EWe0VrxBSxLhCiN4_vDyz7fQm0eHsjmbCF_IfPGFpMJxJ9na-7U96AN7yNjRCAKwyrmkVJJ3bwVn_bIPHGZBwMyE0fLv-iUOYy2Dtbjjai9bhGlTG5rYgslOAs9uOWnC2DoRP-PblHJNnbshe56WIOFmyz8Eov0gqQ/s4096/IMG_2480.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2731" data-original-width="4096" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh62Gd5y20ddNIcNs6VI1wEZFu00EWe0VrxBSxLhCiN4_vDyz7fQm0eHsjmbCF_IfPGFpMJxJ9na-7U96AN7yNjRCAKwyrmkVJJ3bwVn_bIPHGZBwMyE0fLv-iUOYy2Dtbjjai9bhGlTG5rYgslOAs9uOWnC2DoRP-PblHJNnbshe56WIOFmyz8Eov0gqQ/w400-h266/IMG_2480.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>I managed to find Leslie, our team photographer, in the second half of the race and made an effort to smile as I've heard that smiling releases serotonin which signals to the brain that all is great and ultimately makes things easier, if only for a brief moment. “Easier” being a relative term here. At mile 3, I knew I was going to be okay. So I just held on to this last hard effort and kicked it in for my finish. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEi3GaJjeFoPzFBhgX7SSdMbjQ-ghdDg_BkqV1cpNZ2Fd9fD2tnkXc5l6E0w3eMYZNEicPy2N-3UXq5Rm5gF0vBn_ixeHcAQhdm66Fed3PcBXdeVCs3v_Alr7TdyNFuZ-I6MFz9MiR2u_NYhZjoPSThCTgv_IY1UeCiMj3JwgFcDfMjRmPjj3Ml5uOKFo/s1600/2024%20Super%20Sunday%204%20Miler-30335.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEi3GaJjeFoPzFBhgX7SSdMbjQ-ghdDg_BkqV1cpNZ2Fd9fD2tnkXc5l6E0w3eMYZNEicPy2N-3UXq5Rm5gF0vBn_ixeHcAQhdm66Fed3PcBXdeVCs3v_Alr7TdyNFuZ-I6MFz9MiR2u_NYhZjoPSThCTgv_IY1UeCiMj3JwgFcDfMjRmPjj3Ml5uOKFo/s320/2024%20Super%20Sunday%204%20Miler-30335.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I was tucked in behind a bunch of people so there are no finish line pics of me. The above is the best I've got. But it's all I needed. I can see that I was locked in, my form was good and I had my game face on. I'd raced smart and I knew it. It was a good feeling. As I said, I'd been a little scared to line up. This effort reminded me that there is always more in the proverbial well than you think. And that if you make a plan and trust it, things will likely work out the way you hope. I tell my Lex athletes this all the time. It's good to remind myself every once in a while, too.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDVLoYrqX7iQejT4Qv6_K06-M47Gjv8YfD-7vOqOSR4jmOCMnKttCa7Ft8V50Kadjfpf7toom17eK_2mLGmFpPeRmjzk8VneBnB9DWqAkMYE6cZqPPp8WZP5YcggKC4PkkbUVLjic2lpyKqurVfi0ZUMhK47YV8mSsfRVXSN-6OrFeC-x6vPeS_S0QMsQ/s4096/IMG_2481.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2731" data-original-width="4096" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDVLoYrqX7iQejT4Qv6_K06-M47Gjv8YfD-7vOqOSR4jmOCMnKttCa7Ft8V50Kadjfpf7toom17eK_2mLGmFpPeRmjzk8VneBnB9DWqAkMYE6cZqPPp8WZP5YcggKC4PkkbUVLjic2lpyKqurVfi0ZUMhK47YV8mSsfRVXSN-6OrFeC-x6vPeS_S0QMsQ/w400-h266/IMG_2481.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As we always do, my teammates and I gathered together post-race for our cool down. And this is what I love about running with this crew. You can have an absolutely shit race or the best of your life. Doesn't matter. We show up for each other. We pick each other up when we're down, we carry each other when we're off and we cheer for each other when we're on, plus everything in between. It's truly like a second family. I love running and racing. But this is what motivates me to keep showing up at this point in my life. And I am so grateful to have it. Plus, most of them drink coffee so it's a guaranteed coffee date post-race which you know I love. Next up, New Bedford Half Marathon. Maybe I'll be a little more ready. Maybe not. But, there's a really good coffee shop in New Bedford, so I'm good either way. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuVllWs0U0ll5O39vvAMyIyR-JMjeX5WdsjouuEEwRO9oQRdy9SnLQEDvecujDShJx1iSpOGWtX2QBUQ8OWa-J3lwSu4fBE8xWVI_oXtN1jGgWsODtZdLI-CeSpO0SnlfddeD7JWn3R-agnkfm6cslBeomxtWHCP4t680zBJ0-5xJZbxrUiXbLRUaE59M/s3264/collage.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="3264" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuVllWs0U0ll5O39vvAMyIyR-JMjeX5WdsjouuEEwRO9oQRdy9SnLQEDvecujDShJx1iSpOGWtX2QBUQ8OWa-J3lwSu4fBE8xWVI_oXtN1jGgWsODtZdLI-CeSpO0SnlfddeD7JWn3R-agnkfm6cslBeomxtWHCP4t680zBJ0-5xJZbxrUiXbLRUaE59M/s320/collage.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Listen to this:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/1UNYQXk8b0GPbupETN4IHL?si=d90526663bdf45a9" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: #800180;">Dreamteam</span></b></a> <span style="color: #b45f06;">by Galantis feat. Neon Trees</span></div></div></div></div><p></p>
<iframe allow="autoplay" frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1630823685&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true" width="100%"></iframe><div style="color: #cccccc; font-family: Interstate, "Lucida Grande", "Lucida Sans Unicode", "Lucida Sans", Garuda, Verdana, Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-weight: 100; line-break: anywhere; overflow: hidden; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap; word-break: normal;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/wearegalantis" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="Galantis">Galantis</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/wearegalantis/galantis-x-neon-trees" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="Galantis x Neon Trees - Dreamteam">Galantis x Neon Trees - Dreamteam</a></div>RUNNINGWITHMUSIChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08229272359508846579noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086750970765027099.post-73723306766356875632023-12-28T16:04:00.000-08:002023-12-28T16:43:54.705-08:002023:A YEAR IN REVIEW<div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">"What a wonderful thought it is that some of the best days of our lives haven't even happened yet."</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">~ Anne Frank</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNt8t9AxImtbB_qBSq9Ee8bEL8PLVqFzH9FbG5hkv0U0gmId7GNrSoUYv9I7Spl3V48EdxV9mtP-7WgoAIPYv2SD_XzyhBx738JZnVlJFIhhyphenhyphenmgzf3YuRWvhOWRUQ4-eFw2-iDe7WqHj0xxTwESl-RUEzvcE_0xW1ZgjLDS9Lc1C728CnGvfSouMZupS0/s960/960-540-2023-nova-godina.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNt8t9AxImtbB_qBSq9Ee8bEL8PLVqFzH9FbG5hkv0U0gmId7GNrSoUYv9I7Spl3V48EdxV9mtP-7WgoAIPYv2SD_XzyhBx738JZnVlJFIhhyphenhyphenmgzf3YuRWvhOWRUQ4-eFw2-iDe7WqHj0xxTwESl-RUEzvcE_0xW1ZgjLDS9Lc1C728CnGvfSouMZupS0/w320-h180/960-540-2023-nova-godina.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>Dear RWM Readers,</p><p>I'm always floored when I get to this post every year. When we're in the throws of it all some of the days, weeks, months even; they feel so damn long. And, yet here we are again at the end of another 365 day cycle. As always, some big things have unfolded for me, my family, my team, my friends; for most of us, probably. Which is what it's all about, right? Celebrating the big events but also appreciating the slow and simple phases in between when things just are as they are and that feels good, too. As far as running goes, for me it was a bit of a shit show. I had a couple good races in the winter, trained my ass off for Boston, took a spill the week before the marathon and ran it with a broken rib. So, clearly it didn't really go as planned. After that, I got mono. Which I didn't realize I had so I kept working and training right through it and suffering from exhaustion like nobody's business. Super fun. I injured my foot in the summer and that took forever to heal, not that I took time off to deal with it. Because who has time? And, yes, because I'm stubborn. Then in early October I lined up for my fall marathon having just gotten over Covid and slogged through it with just enough energy to finish for my team and ultimately seal our tie for the win in the New England Grand Prix Series. I'm really proud of this one. Although I don't recommend trying it yourself. It was probably not the smartest decision. So, yea. No personal bests. No great marathon stories. Just your standard ups and downs; mostly downs. Not that I don't appreciate the fact that I am out there running. I do. Every. Single. Day. As far as my family goes, my older daughter graduated high school, had the summer of her life and then flew off to college in Colorado in August. Which has been both thrilling and slightly devastating for me. I just miss having her around. My younger daughter is a junior and beginning the college process herself. I can't even think about her leaving and our house being empty. Jeff and I cruised through the year as we always do. Both of us working a lot and navigating parenthood - interesting and very tricky when they're teenagers - while also trying to have fun together and just appreciate all the good. Which sounds easy but often takes more effort than it should. In the end, I have zero complaints. I'm healthy. My family is healthy and happy. I'm running and coaching which is ultimately what I love to do. So, I'm very lucky and incredibly grateful. As far as <b><span style="color: #b45f06;">RWM</span></b> goes, in addition to my standard posts, I partnered up with the guys over at <a href="https://www.sixminutemile.com" target="_blank"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>Six Minute Mile</b></span></a> as a guest deejay, if you will. I'll also be writing reviews for them throughout the year on various running related products. I'm super excited about working with them. And that pretty much wraps it all up. Thank you, again, for following along this year through all my craziness. My stories aren't always that exciting but perhaps they resonate or make you laugh and I suppose that's reason enough for me to stick with it. And with that, I'll sign off. Have a wonderful holiday. Soak up every second. Relax when you can. And get ready to do it all over again in 2024. </p><p>All the best,</p><div class="separator" style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); clear: both; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHFianA7uFSVuuSlaPUi7C1YacRHAnrxunLgdoUyM8lepdChO7rK_dO_qQPak8lzARl7U-Ph2kg9age8aoLrJQG7ys83ok-Xmhfc2VZ1RwVc6bbsDdycLCeUh4iv05G72kjApA4jrdimFqFODHCCWIOEILd6YUEPWl_KVlMnjBRKAYqoKv3pzPC6QK/s200/unnamed-2%20(2).jpg" style="clear: left; color: #888888; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" data-original-height="94" data-original-width="200" height="94" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHFianA7uFSVuuSlaPUi7C1YacRHAnrxunLgdoUyM8lepdChO7rK_dO_qQPak8lzARl7U-Ph2kg9age8aoLrJQG7ys83ok-Xmhfc2VZ1RwVc6bbsDdycLCeUh4iv05G72kjApA4jrdimFqFODHCCWIOEILd6YUEPWl_KVlMnjBRKAYqoKv3pzPC6QK/s1600/unnamed-2%20(2).jpg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1) 1px 1px 5px; background: repeat rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid rgb(238, 238, 238); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="200" /></a></div><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;" /><div class="separator" style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); clear: both; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); clear: both; color: #222222; font-size: 13.2px; text-align: center;"><b style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.2px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">RUNNING WITH MUSIC </span><span style="color: #800180;">2023</span></span></span></b></div><div class="separator" style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); clear: both; font-size: 13.2px; text-align: center;"><b style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.2px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #800180; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></b></div><div class="separator" style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); clear: both; font-size: 13.2px; text-align: center;"><b style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.2px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #800180; font-family: inherit;">JANUARY</span></span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmxZ5pf6gFy7XtsC2fKySQxcSER4NpHYWqiqvV7YhV21Vgl9P_giXJrFpcPbsqy4ViaO0Mv5RVAIFGZq7Bt9A5rY3C8hW8vVivi3RMLH8c2nvZFoMjznReytfD74lOKTrTbjnGPNmqIcPBT_Xq0p9acQZ-wiR5Dc5ZwKuPuBEL85x4dUooHx9utisXKYE/s640/IMG_1379.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #800180;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="528" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmxZ5pf6gFy7XtsC2fKySQxcSER4NpHYWqiqvV7YhV21Vgl9P_giXJrFpcPbsqy4ViaO0Mv5RVAIFGZq7Bt9A5rY3C8hW8vVivi3RMLH8c2nvZFoMjznReytfD74lOKTrTbjnGPNmqIcPBT_Xq0p9acQZ-wiR5Dc5ZwKuPuBEL85x4dUooHx9utisXKYE/s320/IMG_1379.jpg" width="264" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Rosie's final year as a high school and club gymnast. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">16 years of gymnastics. Just...wow.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>SONG:DRESS - SOFTCULT</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>ALBUM:ALREADY FORGOTTEN - HIBOU</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180;"><b>FEBRUARY</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVXvK6XBMSCJLlOSwqIyZZUeOHEROxfQsgDOPK6D32fKS1lC1Swsa8jagvJ1DHYNJjOGIWAi5dZM_1A6E-Tv6nJ5KFt00ssoeL2LxI_B51-P5g0eA9IcFPnDja7uxve6rEYGTGevEIqy6D9l3nnrqqxLXtZRE5vtJO8mC3QgOhg9vNCOGw_9W1fB0HvgE/s640/IMG_1359.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="530" data-original-width="640" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVXvK6XBMSCJLlOSwqIyZZUeOHEROxfQsgDOPK6D32fKS1lC1Swsa8jagvJ1DHYNJjOGIWAi5dZM_1A6E-Tv6nJ5KFt00ssoeL2LxI_B51-P5g0eA9IcFPnDja7uxve6rEYGTGevEIqy6D9l3nnrqqxLXtZRE5vtJO8mC3QgOhg9vNCOGw_9W1fB0HvgE/s320/IMG_1359.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">LHS Boys & Girls clenched the Middlesex League Title for the 2022/23 indoor track season. #LEXGO</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>SONG:ALL THE FEELS - SCAVENGER HUNT</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>ALBUM:MATA - M.I.A.</b></span></div><div><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b><br /></b></span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180;"><b>MARCH</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #800180; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-QJc9eQ9odEQLQwHaH2Zh10cOvfCu9V_s2GFuGKSyLF2rPoX8wwQZXw6PggP5nBQvMQASIM-Y4xkWWjw_cm0q1bef0gUGgCXoDkHtKROAd98hGdAKyR2Y0l-UD55cnC6Ez8evSCEXvHGhJetK8Sk1gMQk-Wg3d2u7rT0oeklJZwL1YgqekeDRc59OVGo/s1451/IMG_5CB5CB3BBEDF-1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1451" data-original-width="1179" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-QJc9eQ9odEQLQwHaH2Zh10cOvfCu9V_s2GFuGKSyLF2rPoX8wwQZXw6PggP5nBQvMQASIM-Y4xkWWjw_cm0q1bef0gUGgCXoDkHtKROAd98hGdAKyR2Y0l-UD55cnC6Ez8evSCEXvHGhJetK8Sk1gMQk-Wg3d2u7rT0oeklJZwL1YgqekeDRc59OVGo/s320/IMG_5CB5CB3BBEDF-1.jpeg" width="260" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Rosie got into college! #skobuffs</div></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>SONG:DESERT OF THE HEAT - SMALL BLACK</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>ALBUM:QUIET THE ROOM - SKULLCRUSHER</b></span></div><div><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180;"><b>APRIL</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLLRo2nHUd-qbXfOzg9eWgTBkp4a0_yqCMlAVAvh5PhwA36qnqUWLlHeBApjlJNbvBGAM0ERB7KsBREvjts0fVUojmSACEuO3m5GgNQtim5AVJIAVfapvxVuT2xdQ4Uq0Uh0200ej1fzDB1iwrXH1YwsZ9DCXAYLPRSpabRFyniRlFaYF0FHY2minh8RE/s640/IMG_1360.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="568" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLLRo2nHUd-qbXfOzg9eWgTBkp4a0_yqCMlAVAvh5PhwA36qnqUWLlHeBApjlJNbvBGAM0ERB7KsBREvjts0fVUojmSACEuO3m5GgNQtim5AVJIAVfapvxVuT2xdQ4Uq0Uh0200ej1fzDB1iwrXH1YwsZ9DCXAYLPRSpabRFyniRlFaYF0FHY2minh8RE/s320/IMG_1360.jpg" width="284" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Ran my 31st marathon (9th Boston) with a broken rib. Do not recommend.</div><span style="color: #800180;"><div><span style="color: #800180;"><br /></span></div></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>SONG:MOTORCYCLE - COLEMEN HELL, LA+CH</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>ALBUM:THE RECORD - BOYGENIUS</b></span></div><div><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180;"><b>MAY</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZLzi5OBK4fz9NzQZKJDh5NS00V-bppWDgmGOAWT94WjczO6kg7KAGMxU99JQh_WLjdyOtV83_rztfy8vjhrS1TtUClmyhCwLLgvuSaloFvIs7ZmeisoEE6pPVZoBVVFIUnWhhIf6fxgDTPosZ79pWAXXZsi_skQlKUVYLK666uIZLbWU4PvrpOemQvhY/s640/IMG_1380.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="328" data-original-width="640" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZLzi5OBK4fz9NzQZKJDh5NS00V-bppWDgmGOAWT94WjczO6kg7KAGMxU99JQh_WLjdyOtV83_rztfy8vjhrS1TtUClmyhCwLLgvuSaloFvIs7ZmeisoEE6pPVZoBVVFIUnWhhIf6fxgDTPosZ79pWAXXZsi_skQlKUVYLK666uIZLbWU4PvrpOemQvhY/w400-h205/IMG_1380.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">LHS Boys & Girls clenched the Middlesex League Title for the 2023 outdoor track season. #LEXGO</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>SONG:DREAMS - SJOWGREN</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>ALBUM:GIVING THE WORLD AWAY - HATCHIE</b></span></div><div><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b><br /></b></span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180;"><b>JUNE</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCQ37RbNSJ124MxjCgsy7nq9Wrwi52yYb7wNwnvCC1Wksx0qdI8kM29YVCwdijUQNW1SLoOmiKtdkav574SPpRxIauPCj4dP8XPL3_XxG0NEN6dpJxa1L5_R09eI3GEIHxQqcp1vjIK5JtXVi77hF8mo_WSNBg05dn2at2A_l1g7rda64hOPvVOJ4ROhI/s640/IMG_1381.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="540" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCQ37RbNSJ124MxjCgsy7nq9Wrwi52yYb7wNwnvCC1Wksx0qdI8kM29YVCwdijUQNW1SLoOmiKtdkav574SPpRxIauPCj4dP8XPL3_XxG0NEN6dpJxa1L5_R09eI3GEIHxQqcp1vjIK5JtXVi77hF8mo_WSNBg05dn2at2A_l1g7rda64hOPvVOJ4ROhI/s320/IMG_1381.jpg" width="270" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Rosie graduated from Winchester high School. I cried a lot.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>SONG:COVERED IN CHROME - GORDI</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>ALBUM:HEATHERHEAD - GENERATIONALS</b></span></div><div><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180;"><b>JULY</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI-VP3dR-pPx90kok9niPzWTLvWHyjB0ShBwVLSSET7lJeJHadT6BbGuW55hVPonfpxAoPys58eiFCxVXJwQKNDKn6X43uuTSUv0rquPWdc2zDgYp66aMthOKPzzsw4AGa1WGOu7DOpfqm_JCkG-IIr4DjcTrwvSY2JuUihiBByOVZhWTML0xIDRHh48U/s1474/Screenshot%202023-12-24%20at%208.19.04%E2%80%AFAM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1474" data-original-width="1188" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI-VP3dR-pPx90kok9niPzWTLvWHyjB0ShBwVLSSET7lJeJHadT6BbGuW55hVPonfpxAoPys58eiFCxVXJwQKNDKn6X43uuTSUv0rquPWdc2zDgYp66aMthOKPzzsw4AGa1WGOu7DOpfqm_JCkG-IIr4DjcTrwvSY2JuUihiBByOVZhWTML0xIDRHh48U/s320/Screenshot%202023-12-24%20at%208.19.04%E2%80%AFAM.png" width="258" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Grace and I ran a 5K together. Second time it's ever happened. Hopefully not the last.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>SONG:SIDEWAYS - MISTERWIVES</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>ALBUM:DE SELBY (PT 2) - HOZIER</b></span></div><div><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b><br /></b></span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180;"><b>AUGUST</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZC_JoWP6SxbNeEku_rExEodz5wm-5oMCL_G1BF7dtjInALOrfUSN1KY3uCD4NrDfIDAP__uduEzCadP6tIrT3fM-ZzHN3TIeSECBJe9x6QUIzlkeF9504JhXAx9Kykw0iDL1LHAbCAQGRjfREl9t435StbynTBocEh7o1f3UwVA-mzCVZsfpt-JAZjUE/s1376/IMG_0D81DA3005E7-1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1376" data-original-width="1179" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZC_JoWP6SxbNeEku_rExEodz5wm-5oMCL_G1BF7dtjInALOrfUSN1KY3uCD4NrDfIDAP__uduEzCadP6tIrT3fM-ZzHN3TIeSECBJe9x6QUIzlkeF9504JhXAx9Kykw0iDL1LHAbCAQGRjfREl9t435StbynTBocEh7o1f3UwVA-mzCVZsfpt-JAZjUE/s320/IMG_0D81DA3005E7-1.jpeg" width="274" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Worked as a summer volunteer for <a href="https://capeabilities.org" style="color: #b45f06;" target="_blank">CapeAbilities Farm</a>, an incredible organization.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>SONG:THIS - OK GO</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>ALBUM:I HONESTLY HAVE NO IDEA BC I DIDN'T WRITE IT DOWN. SORRY.</b></span></div></div><span style="color: #800180;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180;"><b>SEPTEMBER</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUGPmp1egoTqGHOmCiDb6bSm0EBDV_aazteiCW3YmddwklEOwiKsZDyxJEQhUPiqoE2GgyPwKOTLSktnhU_nNBJI7jnqAwgdICnkfsO3eSc1l3rYeoJIxIukQfXqJR4C4Y5rXhVo9ErB2XALL-7YQqKdkentUKkdxyiq_YR8g_JJaVtvP-8YhXJ9eCeBg/s1180/IMG_70CF6250027F-1.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1180" data-original-width="1179" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUGPmp1egoTqGHOmCiDb6bSm0EBDV_aazteiCW3YmddwklEOwiKsZDyxJEQhUPiqoE2GgyPwKOTLSktnhU_nNBJI7jnqAwgdICnkfsO3eSc1l3rYeoJIxIukQfXqJR4C4Y5rXhVo9ErB2XALL-7YQqKdkentUKkdxyiq_YR8g_JJaVtvP-8YhXJ9eCeBg/s320/IMG_70CF6250027F-1.jpeg" width="320" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Lex girls slayed their season opener, Clipper Relays.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>SONG:FIRE OF MERCY - HOT CHIP</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>ALBUM:SOFT LANDING - ART SCHOOL GIRLFRIEND</b></span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180;"><b>OCTOBER</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXHrD7xHiaMBqaMHBqN2d0e4pVmexWcTxsxz3ibNT_kyfIPsw1Ao_2-hxvDYL5-f2vhcnwnN590w80TO1zYGer9sc9twh2ikG_38MWp_BAD59Hth7dStOuR6VXrHteKywrHySoqBN3t7LnIhyphenhyphenFYPYWC4iN7xePldX4QgppB_3oeh7v0rF2eErOhpBZ5e8/s4096/IMG_1393.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2731" data-original-width="4096" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXHrD7xHiaMBqaMHBqN2d0e4pVmexWcTxsxz3ibNT_kyfIPsw1Ao_2-hxvDYL5-f2vhcnwnN590w80TO1zYGer9sc9twh2ikG_38MWp_BAD59Hth7dStOuR6VXrHteKywrHySoqBN3t7LnIhyphenhyphenFYPYWC4iN7xePldX4QgppB_3oeh7v0rF2eErOhpBZ5e8/s320/IMG_1393.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Cape Cod marathon with Covid. Also, do not recommend.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>SONG:YOU'RE HIRED - NEIKED feat. Ayra Starr</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>ALBUM:SIT DOWN FOR DINNER - BLONDE REDHEAD</b></span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180;"><b>NOVEMBER</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyfN__0eKsB3wL0P7_FevZuSVxDzemrTkxcp6ngABdwa12OlszvDKAiatjlxXBeakL3u0GqGxsuImt9txq8N2Nh8yltTV_yRlAc5ollYLXz9J8WOQHtNdEnyzcsmTdKBwRgK6qAAxUF-kM_ogoTi5zQbwUl_5EdO__LVHmat733adB9PZAgeht2QbGgOU/s1460/IMG_8868FF754618-1.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1460" data-original-width="1179" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyfN__0eKsB3wL0P7_FevZuSVxDzemrTkxcp6ngABdwa12OlszvDKAiatjlxXBeakL3u0GqGxsuImt9txq8N2Nh8yltTV_yRlAc5ollYLXz9J8WOQHtNdEnyzcsmTdKBwRgK6qAAxUF-kM_ogoTi5zQbwUl_5EdO__LVHmat733adB9PZAgeht2QbGgOU/s320/IMG_8868FF754618-1.jpeg" width="258" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Grace ran a person best at Coach's Invitational.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>SONG:DO THE RIGHT THING - HAARM</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>ALBUM:THE SECRET TO LIFE - FIZZ</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b><br /></b></span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #800180;">DECEMBER</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwAztsMVOoHm0y0GB8n-XDib3e3OsF8wsYlhu89YTFObAcfg8SqHTfhfZMssBVfDMDbu_iC2cLQA2YP4uH33ISdIq2i8lRgzx5zzJLbbu-cSlluu4vrHGoWGWHW3CakH8e0p9hhWUfvfYFlxGpjXzltqAJYOgb6AHihl3jeO3r8k55MwwU0UcqkBI14hE/s1181/412812119_18407510656001318_986099830554199210_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1181" data-original-width="1149" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwAztsMVOoHm0y0GB8n-XDib3e3OsF8wsYlhu89YTFObAcfg8SqHTfhfZMssBVfDMDbu_iC2cLQA2YP4uH33ISdIq2i8lRgzx5zzJLbbu-cSlluu4vrHGoWGWHW3CakH8e0p9hhWUfvfYFlxGpjXzltqAJYOgb6AHihl3jeO3r8k55MwwU0UcqkBI14hE/s320/412812119_18407510656001318_986099830554199210_n.jpg" width="311" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Reunited with family for the holiday. Nothing better.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>SONG:NEWRULES - SJOWGREN</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>ALBUM:COUSINS - WILCO</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #800180;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #800180;"><b><br /></b></span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #800180;">LISTEN TO THESE:RWM SONGS OF 2023</span></b></div>
<iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="352" loading="lazy" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/playlist/0x9EjJYHaVPHv4Xshzd5FH?utm_source=generator" style="border-radius: 12px;" width="100%"></iframe>RUNNINGWITHMUSIChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08229272359508846579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086750970765027099.post-7116588027892832032023-12-05T04:37:00.000-08:002023-12-05T09:59:49.894-08:002023 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE & WINTER GIVEAWAY<div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #990000;"><b> "The joy of brightening other lives becomes </b></span></i><i><span style="color: #990000;"><b>for us the magic of the holidays."</b></span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #274e13;">~ W.C. Jones</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYBbRuRYrvK0UidI4lrnBYFGN0c2a6vqzDoJEOtzIR_zsP2HEyyLcX5lsYnaN4ol-19zp8EK3s9eORFI5bH6iDXet7QwzgqI3IbKmMAIIu8THV6BwGeCPjce_98e6JuCmysI_BbS14OQVNWoOYPyMrmUxYCMB-YmIu-4mJTNutRn5Q-2mkCRpbpJ30rYE/s486/IMG_0694%202.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="486" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYBbRuRYrvK0UidI4lrnBYFGN0c2a6vqzDoJEOtzIR_zsP2HEyyLcX5lsYnaN4ol-19zp8EK3s9eORFI5bH6iDXet7QwzgqI3IbKmMAIIu8THV6BwGeCPjce_98e6JuCmysI_BbS14OQVNWoOYPyMrmUxYCMB-YmIu-4mJTNutRn5Q-2mkCRpbpJ30rYE/w214-h179/IMG_0694%202.jpg" width="214" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">'Tis the damn season. Again. Sorry. Had to. Because, whether you're a fan or not, it really was Taylor's year and we were all just along for the ride. Seriously, though, here we are. If you've been reading this blog for a while you know I am a huge fan of the holiday season. The lights, the decorations, the gingerbread houses, the candy to decorate those gingerbread houses that you eat while you're making them; all of it. I just can't get enough. And this year, my older daughter, who is a freshman in college out in Colorado, will be home for an extended period of time. Which I am giddy about. Because she's legitimately that much fun. And we're all more fun when she's around. Okay, so let's get down to business here. The list. Below are the gifts that I feel are worth sharing. Yes, there's a running theme, but they might also appeal to anyone with an active lifestyle plus readers, coffee lovers, people who like to be warm when it's cold out (tell me who doesn't want this?) and so on. So, take a look with your friends and family in mind or, heck, even yourself. Because you've worked hard this year and should absolutely have a list. Click on the links for more details. Share them. Learn more about them. Purchase them. Enjoy them. I really dig every one of them and think you will, too. Now, get going. You have a lot to do and the clock is a tickin'. Oh, and don't forget to scroll down and check out our annual <b><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C0eLs31r4o0/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #990000;">WINTER GIVEAWAY</span></a></b>, another epic mix of awesome products for you and your bff. Details and how to enter are below. Don't miss this one. Merry, merry! </div><h2><b><span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></b></h2><h2><b><span style="color: #274e13;">**********</span><span style="color: #990000;"> RWM </span><span style="color: #274e13;">HOLIDAY</span><span style="color: #990000;"> GIFT GUIDE </span><span style="color: #274e13;">**********</span></b></h2></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg64jfk945LhlFQQVPif69IGH9ctLHxxp2Hn2zoS_eYpdmdHEF7Qmj7C6KcqvqSOsITqbiT0lK9TZ25OgWAb7qFtdHPrrvMV6UbuFLcVmAoocTb0TEHG2BOwpr-Te_AmZ5VwC4Bmqu0_PkGrqWn-43vFQD7Vfku1lVBIC4xgKT5hMWmtEPbI-vUWR_4z90/s322/Screenshot%202023-11-26%20at%209.06.52%20AM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="322" data-original-width="311" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg64jfk945LhlFQQVPif69IGH9ctLHxxp2Hn2zoS_eYpdmdHEF7Qmj7C6KcqvqSOsITqbiT0lK9TZ25OgWAb7qFtdHPrrvMV6UbuFLcVmAoocTb0TEHG2BOwpr-Te_AmZ5VwC4Bmqu0_PkGrqWn-43vFQD7Vfku1lVBIC4xgKT5hMWmtEPbI-vUWR_4z90/w193-h200/Screenshot%202023-11-26%20at%209.06.52%20AM.png" width="193" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.ororowear.com/products/unisex-heated-puffer-down-scarf-short?variant=42430641438902" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: #990000;">Ororo Heated Puffer Down Scarf</span></b></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #274e13;">Retail price:$99</span><span style="color: #990000;">*</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #990000;">*Use code rtrax20 to save %20</span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I won't tell you how many items I own by this company. It's a lot. But, hey, at least you know they are tried and true. Between running, coaching, and skiing, I am never without my Ororo heated vest or jacket. This puffer scarf is one of their newer items and is also on my list. Yes, I have a problem. But imagine standing outside with this warm, puffy deliciousness wrapped around your neck. Winter is hard. This makes it so much better. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghj_9pt0hEDFg9ofNDIs1fcg84Tr-dlxzHox0Aab2atJOGnf6RGZFUoMWnRF6dbsg95IEj2cAZfoX8veav_qhjUHFcVilQ9PWQVb2Lr2n36ZBiInXhOT7wYU_iLb47YXSc-4-Km2rzmb4N6POeT3GangOnSTDbF5OY-jZwqyzcrWboFlf4SRPmB_QFiTg/s512/Screenshot%202023-11-20%20at%2012.14.00%20PM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="511" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghj_9pt0hEDFg9ofNDIs1fcg84Tr-dlxzHox0Aab2atJOGnf6RGZFUoMWnRF6dbsg95IEj2cAZfoX8veav_qhjUHFcVilQ9PWQVb2Lr2n36ZBiInXhOT7wYU_iLb47YXSc-4-Km2rzmb4N6POeT3GangOnSTDbF5OY-jZwqyzcrWboFlf4SRPmB_QFiTg/w199-h200/Screenshot%202023-11-20%20at%2012.14.00%20PM.png" width="199" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://bit.ly/rtrax " target="_blank"><b><span style="color: #990000;">Like the Wind Christmas Bundle</span></b></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #274e13;">Retail Price: £75.00</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I have been a Like the Wind subscriber for many years. It is such a unique publication; chock full of running related stories, poems and stunning photography. I love to take my time with it, really soaking in the pictures that go along with the writing that, more often than not, is incredibly moving and poignant. This year, they have created a special package that includes Issue #38 which will launch this month, a full year subscription to the magazine, a limited edition tote bag and a fun card for the recipient. This one is a no-brainer for the runner in your life.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPMQ82Ev1q1K-WUJMVJIKAChV58bLDq7RWGsjbFAKe5p5f8OnKXmO01x5TnvdSlwQ1w2kTFsuw0yYNHgRZjdsE9zdG61GJXonAwaT1NUM91XSS3Q6BwldmR0N8mIkAe2j_NO4xn6lpyWJWVjcYZwSWo46WEI1Ml3WlhyHavmUmy3rd9LZJ-B-C28ofPmk/s404/Screenshot%202023-11-29%20at%202.40.05%20PM%201.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="401" data-original-width="404" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPMQ82Ev1q1K-WUJMVJIKAChV58bLDq7RWGsjbFAKe5p5f8OnKXmO01x5TnvdSlwQ1w2kTFsuw0yYNHgRZjdsE9zdG61GJXonAwaT1NUM91XSS3Q6BwldmR0N8mIkAe2j_NO4xn6lpyWJWVjcYZwSWo46WEI1Ml3WlhyHavmUmy3rd9LZJ-B-C28ofPmk/w200-h199/Screenshot%202023-11-29%20at%202.40.05%20PM%201.png" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://shokz.com/products/openrun" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: #990000;">Shokz OpenRun Open Ear Endurance Headphones</span></b></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #274e13;">Retail Price: $99.95 (currently on sale)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As you may know, I am currently on a <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CzokDgnL3RK/?img_index=1" target="_blank"><span style="color: #274e13;">quest for the perfect headphones</span></a>. As someone who runs with music, the fit, sound, quality and battery life of my headphones must all be good in order for me to give them a thumbs up. I have tried <i>many</i>. And truthfully none have blown me away. The Shokz OpenRun were just recommended to me by multiple people so I got myself a pair and gave them a try. And I am not disappointed. They are different for me as I usually have earbuds inside my ears and these sit on the outside. But, this doesn't impact sound at all. In fact, it helps me hear other stuff going on while I'm running which is super important for a plethora of reasons. They are easy to use and so far the battery life has been stellar. So, at the moment, these are at the top of my list. And I'm a tough critic. So, trust me, they're good.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw7cG_qwNvtiLuouS40z7iHtaNIOyn6SVZM6qPV_JMTClZd8Fx-nzRegCwoZHuikrqAKwhNghagNrvUdXQENKE6-YuOKMQxnsDQ5oYI4oGV5p4KWjTEDYj2dnGzLaS6udwGm9dEc6vf0gycSpxW4ICysBH5iEd_BTQqW8pK_3wp5xmp8_HTrrqfe4nELk/s674/Screenshot%202023-11-20%20at%2012.12.10%20PM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="633" data-original-width="674" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw7cG_qwNvtiLuouS40z7iHtaNIOyn6SVZM6qPV_JMTClZd8Fx-nzRegCwoZHuikrqAKwhNghagNrvUdXQENKE6-YuOKMQxnsDQ5oYI4oGV5p4KWjTEDYj2dnGzLaS6udwGm9dEc6vf0gycSpxW4ICysBH5iEd_BTQqW8pK_3wp5xmp8_HTrrqfe4nELk/w200-h188/Screenshot%202023-11-20%20at%2012.12.10%20PM.png" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://slatemilk.com/products/core-variety-pack?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiA35urBhDCARIsAOU7QwkFNZHnEJ3SOnDhhzuf44eMFpWMmUZ1Akt3NubB0slnfLfzFy_3zawaAo3AEALw_wcB" target="_blank"><span style="color: #990000;"><b>Slate High Protein Shakes & Lattes - Variety Pack</b></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #274e13;">Retail Price: $36.99</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Okay, truth. My husband and I are kind of obssessed with Slate milk. He goes for chocolate but I'm a vanilla fan. We both reach for them immediately after we run or workout for a quick boost of protein (20 grams) without all the sugar that tastes delicious. Throw it in a blender with a banana and some peanut butter and your world will be rocked. Can't recommend these highly enough for the active, health conscious person who's on the go.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://paradissport.com/collections/all-products/products/bikini-five-pack" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: #990000;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="291" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYaAWLsXeqQI9tBnRJS9q5rlcEPPKOetoOvz7NGg0p1A-YlViWUMUiBTp82pRQou9NwHnUURHFTfMOM6uczB6mGw1E4rtrGInrCPDbLJ2WGwRKlV4sQHqEa0gaqk1bvVH2Rtqdbxi57Ny7LOqjaZd576BUAlhGu0wYlmGsQmpKC3C91lmjQDS_EQMLxM0/w194-h200/Screenshot%202023-11-20%20at%2012.16.37%20PM.png" width="194" /></span></b></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://paradissport.com/collections/all-products/products/bikini-five-pack" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: #990000;">Paradis Sport Seamless Bikini - 5 pack</span></b></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #274e13;">Retail Price:$119 (currently on sale)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">If you're like me, you don't want to spend money on underwear. But, if you are also like me, there is nothing worse than a crappy pair of undies when you're running, hiking, skiing... let's be honest...ever. Paradis Sport has created a sustainable, performance-oriented product that I feel good about wearing and feel good in. Once you try them you will forever change your mind about how important the under layer is. Buy the 5 pack for your running partner or break up the pack and put a pair in each stocking for the active women in your family.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKEhbPJ249HB2kFDrs2rOI70QvunOaf9AlmQAGzu9D_S-w2G6PsrUOifvCPwshWJdqhxRXHfvYptcEbG-7rr50jNxukaLN5cBTGdi8xSOfoPiK61N6Jn6XRswg0Gx2Bu_dltWo70PoggV6QCIBFRm61wY-AgNSiClsq892iwOW8NsJKLveR0sKl0YgwtI/s607/ScreenShot2023-11-06at1.09.01PM.webp" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="607" data-original-width="600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKEhbPJ249HB2kFDrs2rOI70QvunOaf9AlmQAGzu9D_S-w2G6PsrUOifvCPwshWJdqhxRXHfvYptcEbG-7rr50jNxukaLN5cBTGdi8xSOfoPiK61N6Jn6XRswg0Gx2Bu_dltWo70PoggV6QCIBFRm61wY-AgNSiClsq892iwOW8NsJKLveR0sKl0YgwtI/w198-h200/ScreenShot2023-11-06at1.09.01PM.webp" width="198" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://therunnerbox.com/products/2023-runnerbox-holiday-box" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: #990000;">Runnerbox Limited Edition Holiday Box</span></b></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #274e13;">Retail price: $44</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Yep, the Runnerbox holiday box is on my list again. It's so perfect I can't not include it. Who doesn't want a box of joy filled with running related goodies? All the products have been pre-tested by the crew at Runnerbox so they are guaranteed awesome. And the amount of things they are able to stuff into this little box will blow your mind. It's like a stocking in and of itself.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: center;"></h2><h3><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #990000;"> *************</span> <span style="color: #274e13;">STOCKING STUFFERS</span> <span style="color: #990000;">************</span></span></h3><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgraVEtgYLZHeUclliQJoXtbhLBdXT0-BJNOivGb7xXSUYcmWCBPkbYnxU4DZ6B0YJlbK1SrWrQ2U0ehSy5BL5qmDITHwkPF8dieBpsdoyVJUAgoCKEEwTfFEsaQUCHz1Ad1i6mH5EYk87yRfW93bm17cN1bUB3_Jk8wkrvixHVFtzVbGztEbNhVOP860s/s640/0.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgraVEtgYLZHeUclliQJoXtbhLBdXT0-BJNOivGb7xXSUYcmWCBPkbYnxU4DZ6B0YJlbK1SrWrQ2U0ehSy5BL5qmDITHwkPF8dieBpsdoyVJUAgoCKEEwTfFEsaQUCHz1Ad1i6mH5EYk87yRfW93bm17cN1bUB3_Jk8wkrvixHVFtzVbGztEbNhVOP860s/s320/0.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The items above are some of my favorite little treats that can be thrown in the stockings or all together in one big basket of amazingness.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><a href="https://nuunlife.com/products/nuun-immunity-seasonal-flavors" target="_blank"><span style="color: #990000;">NUUN Spiced Cider</span></a> </b><span style="color: #38761d;">- It's apple cider. It can served be hot or cold. It's delicious. And it NUUN. So it's awesome. It's also a limited flavor so buy a bunch.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://trapstixlipbalm.com/collections/all-products/products/the-trapstix-collection" target="_blank"><span style="color: #990000;"><b>Trapstix Lip Balm</b></span></a><span style="color: #38761d;"> - They're unique flavors of lip balm cleverly named after musicians like Gucci Mango, Post Melone & Wu Tangerine. How can you not love these?</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.davidstea.com/us_en/shop/collections/sugar-n--spice-8-tea-sampler/202212133US01.html?cgid=tea-collections#start=1" target="_blank"><span style="color: #990000;"><b>David's Tea</b></span></a><span style="color: #38761d;"> - Buy the sampler, which has a variety of flavors like Candy Cane Crush and Jack Frosted Mocha, and put a different flavor in each stocking. Or, buy a box of the Sweet Potato Pie, which is my favorite and give it to....yourself?</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://landgrovecoffee.com/" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: #990000;">Landgrove Coffee Gift Card</span></b></a><span style="color: #38761d;"> - Because it's Landgrove. And, in my humble opinion, it's the best coffee. And there are lots of choices. Including a ton of flavors and fun merch. So why not let them pick it out for themselves this year?</span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><h3 style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">❄️❄️❄️❄️<b> <span style="color: #990000;">RWM </span><span style="color: #38761d;">WINTER</span><span style="color: #990000;"> GIVEAWAY</span></b> ❄️❄️❄️❄️</span></h3><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQam7AyMUIBa4ME0Wv7ypgrQRfafJRuUPStdvWUPSbSJ85LMNzPdK_BIsHGxy-RJuIttfOOmEBxQS_Nz3jW43qyE6hVR6JEChfDfUPkQTWOS9vGnBx9o9xNb7WWhRVoyVjjoK5uCnLJwxtaDKk-hvHJ5kd1XMXC1gg-6tRidSVaTSdY8ooRpEjDcZYJT8/s2048/typorama.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQam7AyMUIBa4ME0Wv7ypgrQRfafJRuUPStdvWUPSbSJ85LMNzPdK_BIsHGxy-RJuIttfOOmEBxQS_Nz3jW43qyE6hVR6JEChfDfUPkQTWOS9vGnBx9o9xNb7WWhRVoyVjjoK5uCnLJwxtaDKk-hvHJ5kd1XMXC1gg-6tRidSVaTSdY8ooRpEjDcZYJT8/s320/typorama.PNG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And last, but definitely not least, the annual <span style="color: #990000;"><b>RWM HOLIDAY GIVEAWAY</b></span>! During this special season, there are so many amazing things for you to enjoy and/or to share with someone you love. And sharing is caring, right? As I did last year, I'm going to hold this giveaway over at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C0eLs31r4o0/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #990000;"><b>RWM on Instagram</b></span></a> as it's easier to have all the entries in one place. All you have to do to enter is "like"<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C0eLs31r4o0/" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: #990000;"> the post</span></b></a> and tag the person you'd like to share all these goodies with in the comments. Yep, that's it. I'd love it if you'd follow all of these companies, too, as I think they're amazing and worth your time to get to know, but I'm trying to keep my rules to a minimum as we all have enough going on right now. If you're not on Instagram, that's ok. Just shoot me an <a href="mailto:rebecca.trachsel@gmail.com" target="_blank"><span style="color: #990000;">email</span></a> and I'll add you to the drawing manually. Huge thanks to all of the companies that contributed to this giveaway. The vest will be shipped directly from Ororo. The milk will be shipped directly from Slate. The Six Minute Mile gear will be shipped directly from SMM. Everything else comes from me. Retail value of this prize package is over $500.00. US residents only for this one. Good luck!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1 <b><span style="color: #990000;">ORORO HEATED VEST</span></b> (winner gets to pick color & style)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1 Holiday <b><span style="color: #990000;">RUNNERBOX</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">2 Issues of<span style="color: #990000;"><b> LIKE THE WIND</b></span> Magazine</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1 Five Pack of <b><span style="color: #990000;">PARADIS</span></b> undies</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">2 tubes of <b><span style="color: #990000;">Spiced Cider NUUN</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">2 <span style="color: #990000;"><b>NUUN </b>Water Bottles</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">2 <b><span style="color: #990000;">SIX MINUTE MILE</span></b> Mugs</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">2 <b><span style="color: #990000;">SIX MINUTE MILE</span></b> t-shirts (winner gets to pick color & size)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1 12 Pack of <b><span style="color: #990000;">SLATE MILK</span></b> (winner picks the flavor of their choice)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1 lb <b><span style="color: #990000;">Landgrove Coffee</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><b>2</b><b style="color: #990000;"> Landgrove Coffee </b>visors</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1 <b style="color: #990000;">Landgrove Coffee </b>t-shirt</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">4 tubes of <b><span style="color: #990000;">Trapstick</span></b> lip balm</div><span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Listen to this:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/5R6MXypO60PCViBX5NBq9V?si=a755d635e0cd4ebb" target="_blank"><span style="color: #990000;">newrules</span></a></b><span style="color: #38761d;"> by Sjowgren</span></div></div></div>
<iframe allow="autoplay" frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1678979412&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true" width="100%"></iframe><div style="color: #cccccc; font-family: Interstate, "Lucida Grande", "Lucida Sans Unicode", "Lucida Sans", Garuda, Verdana, Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-weight: 100; line-break: anywhere; overflow: hidden; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap; word-break: normal;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/sjowgren" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="sjowgren">sjowgren</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/sjowgren/newrules" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="newrules">newrules</a></div>RUNNINGWITHMUSIChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08229272359508846579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086750970765027099.post-1919115808275397342023-11-02T04:46:00.005-07:002024-02-20T14:05:11.637-08:00RWM & SMM - FRIDAY TRACKS<span id="docs-internal-guid-71d25af4-7fff-3337-2495-8958fc295a49"><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC23LX_O_BCukXotKEYH6ilMd8KiCiQQxxX77VLckhF1L0nzsmEEFTuBBPqoEnOhyphenhyphenKAXjHom7oGFj07KmhCB7O12qpln-DKNHtwI9wlw3XobuUGpCJd2ncrHBLafXIdQ5R1E29ewtfZNF4ns-VNmqFyQ7UCOa_qG8d6_gfy5l6k4DhUL3A0_q7N63epGI/s225/images-1.jpg" style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC23LX_O_BCukXotKEYH6ilMd8KiCiQQxxX77VLckhF1L0nzsmEEFTuBBPqoEnOhyphenhyphenKAXjHom7oGFj07KmhCB7O12qpln-DKNHtwI9wlw3XobuUGpCJd2ncrHBLafXIdQ5R1E29ewtfZNF4ns-VNmqFyQ7UCOa_qG8d6_gfy5l6k4DhUL3A0_q7N63epGI/s1600/images-1.jpg" width="225" /></a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; color: #800180; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Get faster. Get stronger. Get inspired. In under 6 minutes.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; color: #b45f06; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Listen to good music while you’re doing it.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; color: #ff9900; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">If you're like me, you don't like keeping a ton of emails in your inbox. But, if you're also like me, you need a system to keep track of the things that you want to remember from those deleted messages. For those of you who are enjoying the new <b><span style="color: #b45f06;">RWM Music</span></b> section of the Friday <a href="https://www.sixminutemile.com/miles" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">Six Minute Mile</span></b></a> newsletter, I have created this post that highlights each song and the story behind it. That way, if you're trying to remember a song from 17 weeks ago, you don't have dig through old emails to find it. Because let's be honest, none of us have time for that. Listen. Like. Share. Repeat.<b> <span style="color: #b45f06;"> #turnitup</span></b></span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #800180; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">9/8 </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #b45f06; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">- ‘The Streets’ by Double Vision</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Double Vision is a band that is composed of the duo Aleesha Dibbs & Billy Wright from Sydney, Australia. It’s got an old school, mellow vibe with electric undertones. The intro is slow and spacey before upping the pace when the vocals kick in. I can’t stop replaying this gem.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #800180; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">9/15</span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #ff9900; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #b45f06; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">- ‘Run’ by Night Panda, feat Anjulie</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Night Panda never fails to disappoint with their super upbeat, highly motivating jams that often make you want to drop what you're doing and cut a rug or go for a run. Or both. Their entire catalog is worth a deep-dive if you’re looking for more uptempo tunes for your playlist. I went with their song ‘Run’ this week for obvious reasons.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #800180; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">9/22</span><span style="color: #b45f06;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">- 'Tide' by JDM Global </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Released in 2021, the song is not new but both the song and the artist are new to me and I am digging all of it. I can't stop listening to this gem, in particular, that has a colorful, psychedelic edge to it. Makes me want to get my surfboard out and hit the water. And I don't surf. So running will have to do. Close enough. </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #800180; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">9/29</span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #b45f06; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #b45f06; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">- 'Attack of the Ghost Riders' by MØ w/ The Reveonettes </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">I love The Raveonettes and have been listening to their old school, alt-rock music for many years. But this recent twist on what was already a killer tune is borderline jaw-dropping. I also happen to love MØ and have a plethora of her songs on my various running playlists. This particular collaboration is off their most recent album ‘The Raveonettes presents: Rip It Off’ which is a celebration of their original album "Whip It On" released 20 years ago, on which they invite friends to join them for covers of their songs. The entire album is worth your time but "Attack" got my blood pumping and had me picking up my pace without even realizing it.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #800180; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">10/6</span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #ff9900; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #b45f06; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">- 'Big 7' by Burna Boy</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Burna Boy is an Afro-beat artist from Nigeria. 'Big 7' is off his latest LP, "I Told them..." which was released this past August. I'd never heard of Burna Boy prior to discovering this new song but the guy is prolific & if you're into this sound he's actually got a total of 7 albums to explore. I love his quote in Stereogum about this song in particular, "‘Big 7’ is a melodic tribute to embracing new heights in my musical journey." Amen to that! This song definitely takes me to new heights in my run journey every time it comes on. Play it loud!</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #800180; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">10/13</span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #ff9900; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #b45f06; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>- ‘My Whispers Are Wildfire’ by Ida Mae </b></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The band is composed of husband and wife duo, Chris Turpin and Stephanie Jean from the UK. 'Whispers' is off their second album, "Thunder Above You" which was released this past August. Jean's voice is smooth and sultry but it's Turpin's guitar that mesmerizes. Listen to the whole song start to finish and then listen again as you hear something new and different each time. They are labeled folk/blues, a category you may not usually throw into your running mix. This time I think you will.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #800180; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">10/20</span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #b45f06; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #b45f06; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">- ‘Bloom' by ill peach</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">The NYC based duo is composed of Pat Morrissey and Jess Corazza. Both were already working together as professional songwriters for other artists such as Icona Pop, SZA & Weezer. Then finally, and to our good fortune, someone suggested they take their self-described "weird" music and start their own project. And thus "ill peach" was born. 'Bloom' is on their recently released EP, 'COLLIDING'. Pop, punk, alternative, sweet, salty - all of it. Please and thank you. In my humble opinion, every song is worth your time. Run, dance, do what you do. They all work. For all of it. #turnitup
</span></p><div><br /></div><p dir="ltr" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #800180; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">10/27</span><span style="color: #b45f06;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">- ‘Dramamine’ by Middle Kids</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Middle Kids is a Sydney-based, alt-rock band led by Hannah Joy who also happens to be married to bassist Tim Fitz. I discovered them back in 2021 upon the release of their second album, “Today We're the Greatest." I was running ultras at the time and found myself listening to both their second and their first albums on repeat regularly. “Dramamine” was co-written by Joy and Fitz and is off their soon-to-be-released third album “Faith Crisis Pt. 1” set to launch early next year. It's a happy, hazy, upbeat gem that inevitably lifts my mood every time I put it on. Which in turn tends to get me excited to lace up and run. So, yeah, for obvious reasons, this one is typically a daily pick. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b><span style="color: #800180;">11/3 </span><span style="color: #b45f06;">- 'The Secret To Life by Fizz</span></b></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The band is composed of Orla Gartland, dodie, Martin Luke Brown and Greta Isaac, all better known for their budding solo careers in various genres including indie, rock, punk & folk. You often hear the term Supergroup associated with bands that are made up of well-known individual artists but they have rejected this label outright and instead claim to be a cohesive unit grounded by their friendship and their desire to do something totally different on the side. With Fizz they are taking a break from their day to day work and jumping into something creative and fun that also feeds their other interests as musicians. 'The Secret To Life', released just over a week ago, is an upbeat, toe-tapping, high energy jam that hooks you in right from the start. I can't help but smile every time it comes on. Perhaps they have the Secret? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b><span style="color: #800180;">11/10</span><span style="color: #b45f06;"> - 'Do The Right Thing' by HAARM </span></b></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">This Liverpool based trio met in a bar and has been together since 2016 which is surprising because despite how good they are, I'd never heard of them until last year when I discovered their song 'Foxglove'. They're unique in that they have two lead singers, both songwriters, which leads to a different sound that's a bit more trippy and sonorous, almost oddly beautiful. 'Do The Right Thing' was released last month and is one of a string of singles they'll be putting out every six weeks as they build up to the release of their debut album which is set to come out in the spring of 2024. Personally, I will be waiting eagerly for more. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b><span style="color: #800180;">11/17 </span><span style="color: #b45f06;">- 'Blame the Moon' by Cain Culto </span></b> </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">This one is totally different from the last few and that is on purpose as I don't want to get stuck in one genre for these weekly picks. Cain, born Andrew Estevan Padilla, began as a pastor making electronic Christian music. In 2020, they chose to take things in a new direction and used their music as a way to express themselves during this transition and to share their new perspective. 'Blame the Moon' is a funky, pop groove that sinks right under the skin; starting with the upbeat percussion and then enhanced by Culto's eerie, falsetto vocals. They have a ton of new music in development and will undoubtedly be a well known name across many genres in 2024. In the meantime, get your funk on with all the gems that are out now.
<br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b><span style="color: #800180;">11/24</span><span style="color: #b45f06;"> - 'Easy' by Misterwives </span></b></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Formed back in 2012 and based in NYC, Misterwives is led by singer Mandy Lee. Apparently, the band came together because Lee wanted an 80s cover band to play for her birthday. And that's all she wrote. Pun intended. The well-known indie-pop band was dropped by their first label mid-pandemic and "Easy" is about being resilient, managing heartache and eventually getting back up and starting again. The message, even when things are difficult, they will get better, resonated with me and, I'm guessing, likely does with most. I can't help but nod my head to the beat as Lee sings, "I'm still standing and my heart's still beating. It gets easier, but it's not easy." Tell me that doesn't apply to almost everything we deal with in life. Especially running.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="color: #800180;"><b>12/8 - </b></span></span> <b><span style="color: #b45f06;">“What Now” by Brittany Howard</span></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">This talented artist, of Alabama Shakes fame, has one studio album to her name and will be releasing her second, also titled "What Now," next year. She took her solo path back in 2019 and snagged a Grammy for her song "Stay High" in 2021. She's back with this powerful, almost dark lyrical masterpiece that legitimately makes you want to dance – a combination that's wild and oddly magical. It kind of feels like there is nothing this woman can't do. I will be waiting anxiously for the full album. Until then, I will have this single gem playing daily. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="color: #800180;"><b>12/15 - </b></span><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b><span>'</span>Lies for a Liar" by GERD</b></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Before hearing this song, I was not at all familiar with this artist. And after listening to it many, many, times, as well as the rest of the songs that she has released, my question to you today is: How is that even possible? Holy hell, this woman's voice. Well, young woman. Born in Sweden in 1995, Elin Gerd Mona Lundgren's love for music began the moment she could walk. She pursued a career in music after high school and following some tough hurdles while getting started, a couple moves and multiple enrollments in schools, she landed in London and started what I can only imagine will be a very lucrative career. "Lies for a Liar", her debut single, was released in 2021. And the rest is history. I will be shocked if we don't hear more from this freckle-faced phenom in the near future. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #800180;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(128, 1, 128);"><b>12/22 - </b></span></span><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">'newrules' by Sjowgren</span></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Pronounced "Show-grin," this indie pop trio is based in San Francisco and prefers to keep themselves somewhat under the radar which, for a band, is both rare and – in my opinion – very cool. They formed back in 2015 and gained substantial attention when their song “Seventeen” was in a commercial. They've since released multiple singles and an EP through their own label, all while maintaining their behind-the-scenes vibe; focusing primarily on songwriting and artistic direction. There is a lot going on in “newrules.” It has a dreamy, almost psychedelic beginning that eventually flows into an upbeat rhythm as it draws out all the different vocals. I dig it. I think you will, too. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">****</span><span style="color: #800180;"> 2024 </span><span style="color: #b45f06;">**** </span></b></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b><span style="color: #800180;">1/5 -</span> <span style="color: #b45f06;">Gently, Dreamer by Cayo Coco</span></b></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">I'll go ahead and date myself here but this song takes me back to my teenage years with its ‘80s vibe. Cayo Coco is the solo project of LA-based Lumen Loraine. “Gently, Dreamer” is the first song off his upcoming album set to be released this year. Loraine sings and plays every instrument on the track, a talent that always blows my mind for obvious reasons. He told Broken 8 Records in this interview that he doesn't know much about keys or music theory, but just that he knows how to "have fun and get lost in the sonic landscape." I mean, when I'm running, I basically want to have fun and get lost in the sonic landscape myself, so I get it. I think. Maybe not. But I love the song. And I'm clearly psyched for more. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #800180; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">1/12 - </span><span style="color: #b45f06;">Bonfire by LANNDS</span></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">LANNDS is comprised of Rania Woodard and Brian Squillace and “Bonfire” is off their latest album, “Music for the Future.” In the spring of 2021, the duo holed up in a remote cabin in Northern Georgia with the goal being to just wake up each day and create what felt right at that moment. The two of them produced, engineered, mixed and provided vocals for the entire album. Their music has a funky, electro-pop sound which is enhanced by Woodard's really cool vocals. “Bonfire” has so much going on but is also oddly simple. You have to listen to it a few times to catch all of the intricacies. Which I did. And highly recommend you do as well. Then dive into the entire album. </p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #800180; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">1/19 - </span></b></span><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>Terrible News by Middle Kids</b></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">I discovered this band back in 2021 when I was a wee bit obsessed with their song “Cellophane (Brain)“ off their first album “Today We're the Greatest.” Originally from Sydney, the trio made up of Hannah Joy, Fitz and Harry Day, snagged an ARIA award for that first album and the rest, as they say, is history. Over the past few weeks they've been dropping singles off of their new album, “Faith Crisis Pt. 1,” which is set to be released next month. Personally, I'm digging all of these teasers but “Terrible News” is a straight up banger and I cannot get enough. Joy's voice is sharp and snappy and together with Day's drums, they manage to keep the whole vibe upbeat despite the fact that the song happens to be about a dark and challenging time during the pandemic. I freaking love this band. Go check them out. I think you will, too. </p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b><span style="color: #800180;">1/26 - </span> <span style="color: #b45f06;">'adore you' by Fred again and Obongjayar</span></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">This one is pretty out there and I love it for that reason. British producer and DJ, Fred Gibson (aka Fred again) teamed up with Nigerian-born/London based Obongjayar who provided the absolutely stunning vocals on top of GIbson's trippy keyboards. Released back in August of last year, the song has a vibrant, whimsical feel that inevitably makes me smile the minute it begins to play regardless of my state of mind. And these lyrics, "And I pray, pray you never lose your star, I'm so proud, proud of all that you are. Ooh, I adore you." I get chills every time I hear it. Apparently, the song is dedicated to Gibson's sister which is just so touching. Share this one with someone you love. Then dance around the kitchen while you listen to it, preferably with that person. </p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b><span style="color: #800180;">2/2 -</span><span style="color: #b45f06;"> 'Last Time' by Lovpune</span></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Based in LA, Lovpune is an independent artist who started making music at the age of 15. She experimented with a few different bands before stepping out on her own into the ethereal world of alternative synth-pop. This song doesn't come out swinging; you have to be patient and let it build. Her voice is smooth and dreamy and she hooks you in with that alone, but when the synth is added and the song's rhythm picks up it's like....whoa, now we're rollin'. That's when you turn the volume up and let it sink in for the rest of the song. The legs are almost moving on their own by the end. It's the perfect song for a warm-up, perhaps, when you want to ease in slowly for a beat or two and then switch gears and take it to the next level. Lovpune's first album, “By Design” is set to be released this March. I'm definitely fired up for more from this artist. </p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b><span style="color: #800180;"> 2/9 -</span><span style="color: #b45f06;"> 'Still Getting It Done' by Ghost of Vroom </span></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Ghost of Vroom is an alt-rap band featuring Mike Doughty and Doughty's long time collaborator, Andrew Livingston. I've been doing a lot of training on the treadmill lately to avoid the icy roads outside. For me, the indoor grind can be, well, a grind. But good music always makes it better. It doesn't matter what kind of headspace I'm in or how I'm feeling when I get going, when this song comes on everything is good and right in the world. Doughty, formerly of the band Soul Coughing, created this solo project, Ghost of Vroom, in 2020 and “Still Getting It Done” is off his third album, “Ghost of Vroom 3.” Produced by Beastie Boys collaborator, Mario Caldado, Jr., (IYKYK), this gem is an absolute funk fest. I don't believe you if you tell me you don't want to cut a rug when it comes on. Play it loud, my friends. </p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b><span style="color: #800180;">2/16</span><span style="color: #b45f06;"> - Falling Apart by Nyassa</span></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">This is a new artist for me and I am smitten. I know, I say this a lot. I can't help myself sometimes. That is the power of music, I suppose. Originally from Australia, this mesmerizing pop-artist, whose father was also a musician, taught herself to sing when she was a little girl by listening to other musicians on her CD player and teaching herself their vocal melodies. She spent several years developing as a singer-songwriter, doing much of her work with her dad who played the instruments for her songs. Released in October of 2023, “Falling Apart” was written on her bedroom floor with her partner who provided the beat as she sang the chorus which she made up on the spot. What started out as a project that was just for fun became this brilliant single. Expect new music from her in 2024 and check out her videos as her fashion game also happens to be out of this world. </p><p dir="ltr" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></p></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="352" loading="lazy" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/playlist/7GKUSPAnyVZzrfqVU1KxIL?utm_source=generator" style="border-radius: 12px;" width="100%"></iframe></span>RUNNINGWITHMUSIChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08229272359508846579noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086750970765027099.post-20151550415455575332023-10-11T03:08:00.010-07:002023-10-11T03:26:05.424-07:00RACE REVIEW:CAPE COD 26.2<div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;"> "Things don't always <br />go as planned. </span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">When things change, make </span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">them a part of the plan."</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #b45f06;">~ Unknown</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: left;">My last race review here on RWM was for <a href="https://runningwithmusic.blogspot.com/2023/04/race-reviewboston-2023.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Boston</span></a> back in April. Oh man, as far a running goes, so much has happened between now and then. None of it planned. And most of it hot garbage. Let me see if I can sum it up and get us to this past weekend in a somewhat brief manner. Starting with the original plan, which was for my teammates Lauren, Amy and me to run the Cape Cod marathon as a Masters (40+) team with the goal being to go for the win. Ok, cool. That sounded fun and somewhat stress free. No time goal, just run hard and place as high as I can. Then in June I got mono. For the entire month I could not do any training and took more naps than a two year old. I slowly started to come back to life in July and jumped into a local five mile race the last weekend of the month. I wanted to get a sense of where my fitness was as I got ready to ramp back up for the marathon. After that race, literally, like the second it was over, my left foot started hurting under my second metatarsal. Naturally, I kept running because I could and because...I could. I later learned it was tendonitis and started going to PT weekly for Shockwave therapy, the goal being to just make it through the last two months of training and get to the line so I could run for the team and then shut things down. I know, kind of dumb. Whatever. Two weeks before the marathon all three of us raced a 10K. That actually <i>was</i> part of the plan. And it went pretty well for me all things considered. The next week, however, all three of us got sick. Ranging from a bad cold to Covid, we all had something. Sore throat, body aches, exhaustion and so on. Not part of the plan. But we had over a week to get healthy so we were all still assuming we'd be running the marathon. Then suddenly Lauren's foot started hurting to the point where she could no longer run. Obviously a stress fracture. Lauren was now officially out. Down to two of us. But, no. Amy started to have random dizzy spells, almost passing out in the middle of a crosswalk as she was crossing the street. Yea, no. Not happening. It was now down to me. Maybe?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgooNgGObTyqjIAN_vuHFbe5q_DKAHuHIimHf7vD80hvKDZEaqHLS77n1MbTjCq2shCiOTzcu-j_WIRP7-OhcByiJlGa-AUWKOKKrocjoH1_0ZYvA-Lrc_76uC5mHbvdH4Tj5NeFsiypiSDzEyV-O_cU0CLljeAktqfgXLZM2L4qxMd58199p_BFAhWIoc/s640/IMG_0084.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgooNgGObTyqjIAN_vuHFbe5q_DKAHuHIimHf7vD80hvKDZEaqHLS77n1MbTjCq2shCiOTzcu-j_WIRP7-OhcByiJlGa-AUWKOKKrocjoH1_0ZYvA-Lrc_76uC5mHbvdH4Tj5NeFsiypiSDzEyV-O_cU0CLljeAktqfgXLZM2L4qxMd58199p_BFAhWIoc/s320/IMG_0084.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The three of us met up for coffee to discuss. I was feeling better and had been able to get a few runs in since I'd gotten sick but I was nowhere near full strength. We no longer had a Masters team at this point. But, we wouldn't even have an open team if I dropped out. And that sucked. So we weighed out the pros and cons and then decided I would go to the Cape a make a game day decision.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;"><span style="text-align: left;"> </span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj2I2UvYgePtOFT1AC33KZvnzNnXsU_7lNYUd5fQh-FobvBi4HU6nTuimgeiSYIVMvzACnC38S-zvle-Yi_jqtAt4V215FxM4r4oJzCQJ1BZeuefhFFHggJUgdR4Jzd2L7_Fv7CiyAfGickLhgIiNR0lvfvGnIOq20dY1eajjVro5nkB_rRy1HEsRojx8/s640/IMG_0096.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj2I2UvYgePtOFT1AC33KZvnzNnXsU_7lNYUd5fQh-FobvBi4HU6nTuimgeiSYIVMvzACnC38S-zvle-Yi_jqtAt4V215FxM4r4oJzCQJ1BZeuefhFFHggJUgdR4Jzd2L7_Fv7CiyAfGickLhgIiNR0lvfvGnIOq20dY1eajjVro5nkB_rRy1HEsRojx8/s320/IMG_0096.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Friday night I laid all my race gear out as usual. Just kidding, I threw that shit in a pile and stuffed it in my duffle. I didn't give a crap about organization at this point. I just needed to get to the freaking start. Note, this mindset would bite me in the ass the next day but I'll get to that in a bit.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4ZuAUVHniy4YAmoVcEzpPluZl2yPNxpw49dpUcWVukK1fWIwlLueMPMepgD4o40SI9DhDgej2Xs3cixIZ5HfG7VfI6Cjb7tFn3erEtHVTAw_wDYn_cGhwA051LMX_z-iPLZMzWEwy2qkQjr6K_FAOZIWXY51vBxCb7JRYb4z0noSO0hIjAU12deBsQk4/s640/IMG_0101.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4ZuAUVHniy4YAmoVcEzpPluZl2yPNxpw49dpUcWVukK1fWIwlLueMPMepgD4o40SI9DhDgej2Xs3cixIZ5HfG7VfI6Cjb7tFn3erEtHVTAw_wDYn_cGhwA051LMX_z-iPLZMzWEwy2qkQjr6K_FAOZIWXY51vBxCb7JRYb4z0noSO0hIjAU12deBsQk4/s320/IMG_0101.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Saturday I woke up and headed down to Falmouth to meet up with Amy who was coming to be my wingman and to cheer on the rest of the team. We went to the expo and grabbed our bibs. Yes, Amy grabbed hers, too. Because, if we're being honest, there was a very small part of her that was still wondering if she might be able to pull it off. And since we're being honest now, let's just go ahead and admit to ourselves that we all would have likely felt the exact same way. There wasn't much to the expo so we left shortly afterwords and drove over to Rite-Aid to get some supplies. Really important things like water, Advil, Gatorade and these giant Squishmallows. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpkajcAx04l_QjhLTg1gQ0ocs6LNGO9X6lScnY0JjkaORyRINSPNm5nSLgCR02F2R-GhYw8eqOHVymbfnR-hNUdWGuaojiHBr7c5BKrM-0X46abGC3_Nh4KX_qX9ZqCxlPsbDdoUYkg2iNbR6XI5-M1HF5QisSS3Zr02vrZuCNdWP06al8sOBtcMbfjng/s640/IMG_0115.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpkajcAx04l_QjhLTg1gQ0ocs6LNGO9X6lScnY0JjkaORyRINSPNm5nSLgCR02F2R-GhYw8eqOHVymbfnR-hNUdWGuaojiHBr7c5BKrM-0X46abGC3_Nh4KX_qX9ZqCxlPsbDdoUYkg2iNbR6XI5-M1HF5QisSS3Zr02vrZuCNdWP06al8sOBtcMbfjng/s320/IMG_0115.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">What?? We needed them. Okay, we didn't. But the whole process made us both laugh so hard and given how the week had gone and the state I was in it was exactly what I needed at moment. We went back to the hotel and took naps (using the pillows, obvs) and then got ready to meet up with our team manager, Dave, for dinner. We sat down around 6:30 and this is just about when I started to develop a new, dry cough that I couldn't shake through the whole meal. Dave was concerned. I was trying not to be. After about an hour we left to go back to the hotel and chill out for the rest of the evening. The cough was not going away so I called Dave who was out getting water and asked him to pick me up some cough drops. At this point he was telling me that this race was not worth putting my health at risk and that maybe I should consider calling it. I told him I'd see how the night went and decide in the morning. And then I went to bed with my fingers and toes crossed. Not that I believe in that stuff but I needed all the help I could get. I woke up at 5:45 and drove to Starbucks for coffee. The cough had subsided so I let Dave know that I was going to give it a shot. We made a final plan to check in at mile 10, which is where our hotel was, and if I was okay, I'd continue on. But if not, I would shut it down. I was good with that. It was now 7:15am. The race started at 8:00. I was gathering all my gear and realized I did not have headphones. I looked everywhere. Bags, pockets, car. No dice. This was not Boston where I could get lost in the roar of the crowds. This was a small race where we'd all be very spread out. And on top of that I wasn't feeling great so my energy level was sub par. I honestly didn't think I could do it without music. I tried not to panic. Amy and I drove to Walgreens to see if they had anything. They were closed. Amy texted her husband. Yes, he had them but he wouldn't get to the start on time to give them to me. Shiiiiiiiiit. On a whim, I sent a message to Leslie Poitras. Her son, Tim, runs on the team and she is our team photographer. Yes, she told me, she had earbuds and yes, I could borrow them. SWEET LORD ABOVE. Amy and I beelined it to the library parking lot and grabbed the headphones from her husband on the fly and then continued on to the race which was starting in about fifteen minutes. Remember how I told you I should have been a little bit more on my mental game the night before as I packed. This is why. This has never happened to me. It will NEVER HAPPEN AGAIN. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTSD9m0WKW2edJ8avGeGC2rVTNRwfOxSmn-e3ipOfknAJU7dfpgTT7gAN6auEqQevJeadh3_gbENhqA-Nx6iybRMmBOPSPORRpmj-dZ3XtftdR2tKVR5WrP-CD0fecd8jDKQzWO6Zt7lVnJ9TssW7KyrD16plj_CKodgQWj8vTfScwRNXIY6Kqply1gyU/s640/3AE860E7-4BAB-438B-96CD-84F2C5E5017F.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTSD9m0WKW2edJ8avGeGC2rVTNRwfOxSmn-e3ipOfknAJU7dfpgTT7gAN6auEqQevJeadh3_gbENhqA-Nx6iybRMmBOPSPORRpmj-dZ3XtftdR2tKVR5WrP-CD0fecd8jDKQzWO6Zt7lVnJ9TssW7KyrD16plj_CKodgQWj8vTfScwRNXIY6Kqply1gyU/s320/3AE860E7-4BAB-438B-96CD-84F2C5E5017F.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">THE RACE:</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I have run 31 marathons. I have had a lot go right. And a lot more go wrong. The situation I was in for this one was something totally different. I was truly just trying to finish. And if that was going to happen. I could not go all out. And that is a pretty weird feeling. I can't lie and tell you I wasn't seriously doubting my decision right up until the gun went off. I was. But I also know myself and I knew I would have always wondered if I could have eeked it out if I didn't give it a go. And that side of me tends to win these types of debates. It was a beautiful morning. I felt no pressure. I embraced the moment for what it was. And with that I was off. I eased in at 7:15 per mile which is about 30 seconds slower than my typical marathon pace. But it felt comfortable and if I was going to get this done, it's how it had to be. From that point on I decided to run by feel and not use my watch at all. The miles ticked by...7:25, 7:16, 7:13, 7:02. I was okay. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi47ZoTGIAVRlNe5RfmEWsOZgbyKcNVT5yPpfx9yGwJ4MKGF0DaNF7DfT2i1fYw8Ao8ja99xQ2VfGJwbpIZVPzB6_ouSiHI3Dh8kQcWKDUY97KSqapeFJOSYEo0rRs0UeW7pMmdp5fhoX1JE6A8b6QdHlptBmtN7mZujT2wPPZNpPGTkwSpC0IjF2u1kEQ/s961/IMG_7217.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="961" data-original-width="652" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi47ZoTGIAVRlNe5RfmEWsOZgbyKcNVT5yPpfx9yGwJ4MKGF0DaNF7DfT2i1fYw8Ao8ja99xQ2VfGJwbpIZVPzB6_ouSiHI3Dh8kQcWKDUY97KSqapeFJOSYEo0rRs0UeW7pMmdp5fhoX1JE6A8b6QdHlptBmtN7mZujT2wPPZNpPGTkwSpC0IjF2u1kEQ/s320/IMG_7217.HEIC" width="217" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I saw Amy and Dave at mile 10. I was calm and in total control. I grabbed a gel from Amy and water from Dave. <i>"Are you okay?" </i>Dave yelled at me. I nodded, yes. And kept going. I started to feel good and picked it up a little. I saw Leslie at mile 12 and smiled at her. I pointed at her headphones and gave her a thumbs up. I have never been more grateful for a person than I was at the moment. I was in a pretty solid groove now. I knew at this point that I was going to be able to finish. The miles continued to tick by smoothly....7:08, 6:58, 6:58, 7:07, 7:05. The course was a clover so I was starting to see my teammates coming toward me on the other side of the street. I cheered for every single one of them. I high-fived with Charlie. I needed all the positive energy I could drum up and this was helping a lot. I was even having a little fun. Yay running.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD3Q0O-o1v50MhBSGE4ax_QFlGUpW-6agmWWlvT0s_BgNUC8l-bxRtZzTQpmOmJOoYxvHZdy-6M9RcQsZQs1-iPhF9FJw9iNnRNaUQWhijx6W_057ef9Pf4PVKKMa3txrKA8Tlybe_3HZuZmYa3QFL-zINZSiuwQGKUs40hVuTqCdi31AOLzx4VRciEBU/s2048/IMG_0145.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD3Q0O-o1v50MhBSGE4ax_QFlGUpW-6agmWWlvT0s_BgNUC8l-bxRtZzTQpmOmJOoYxvHZdy-6M9RcQsZQs1-iPhF9FJw9iNnRNaUQWhijx6W_057ef9Pf4PVKKMa3txrKA8Tlybe_3HZuZmYa3QFL-zINZSiuwQGKUs40hVuTqCdi31AOLzx4VRciEBU/s320/IMG_0145.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And then I wasn't. At mile 22 the wind picked up. My pace went from 7:05 to 7:44 despite my effort staying the same. The wind was relentless. And it was coming from all directions. The next five miles were absolutely brutal. I felt like I was running against a wall. Thankfully, I hadn't blown all my steam by going out too hard and I was sure that I could slog to the finish. But this final stretch totally sucked. And I could not WAIT to be done. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTuN_0YZl-XQAJeaPYWJP-J8n94UKsyJ7jd1iXrFevvVeGu2TwEDDq5QY7nyjEnnv4U2IzXVCSfDj1_LGIIeuAGLR_OWiRlRcfwOb1Ha1aDI9hYkJp9tLXts6QK0lXImkhAKnP7In7mmPguW2LgUVHeMfICJnfmYQ7zOiyAQdon49jhfJw_6s_9_vCvW8/s1191/0.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="794" data-original-width="1191" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTuN_0YZl-XQAJeaPYWJP-J8n94UKsyJ7jd1iXrFevvVeGu2TwEDDq5QY7nyjEnnv4U2IzXVCSfDj1_LGIIeuAGLR_OWiRlRcfwOb1Ha1aDI9hYkJp9tLXts6QK0lXImkhAKnP7In7mmPguW2LgUVHeMfICJnfmYQ7zOiyAQdon49jhfJw_6s_9_vCvW8/s320/0.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Finally, I could see the banners and the crowd lined up and I kicked it in to finish just under three hours and twelve minutes. Not that I cared. Holy hell, I was so relieved. Amy found me right away and gave me my clothes. We walked back to the hotel and I grabbed a quick shower. I threw all my crap together, got in my car and drove straight to Starbucks for a hot coffee. And that, my friends, is all she wrote. It was the weirdest training cycle I've ever had. As I said at the beginning, nothing went well or as planned for me or my teammates. Literally. Nothing. And had I not been running for the team, there is no chance in hell I would have gotten on that line. But we do crazy shit, especially when people are counting on us. And in the end, our team came in second. So, EFF YES. We did it. Huge thanks to Amy for being my emotional support animal. Thanks to Dave for being so understanding and keeping me in check. And thanks to Leslie for making up for my stupidity. It takes a village. And I am beyond grateful. Up next? For the first time in a while, I truly have no idea. And I am totally okay with that.</div></div></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></span></div><span style="color: #b45f06;">Listen to this: </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/5IXY8vgfbXokNfHCbZOaeR?si=4b67938b0eab4a34" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: #800180;">My Whispers Are My Wildfire</span></b></a><span style="color: #b45f06;"> - Ida Mae </span><br />
<iframe allow="autoplay" frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1509491503&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true" width="100%"></iframe><div style="color: #cccccc; font-family: Interstate, "Lucida Grande", "Lucida Sans Unicode", "Lucida Sans", Garuda, Verdana, Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-weight: 100; line-break: anywhere; overflow: hidden; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap; word-break: normal;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/ida_mae" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="IDA MAE">IDA MAE</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/ida_mae/my-whispers-are-wildfire-1" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="My Whispers Are Wildfire">My Whispers Are Wildfire</a></div></div>RUNNINGWITHMUSIChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08229272359508846579noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086750970765027099.post-70521826670466723322023-09-08T14:30:00.001-07:002024-02-20T13:53:48.962-08:00RWM & SIX MINUTE MILE<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><i><span style="color: #800180;"><b>"Get faster. Get stronger. Get inspired. In under 6 minutes."</b></span></i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8hHTVHRoa9y7iaoll1s3MmdwNGT84O6MGRa78Wddpe49MVChPGTrKYaAaBrkfwiorANWoLrA46UKxVnk8XJhKcIttoodbudMJAoMQ2sUcBPdQaN3paFrwt9IMYlGYn2CAQuTc7PJrT_T4JHRCHX4CvMd3bGLz_16X2Dfkw1la_5EPMxsRB9kT6rZFQrE/s200/1600872788534.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8hHTVHRoa9y7iaoll1s3MmdwNGT84O6MGRa78Wddpe49MVChPGTrKYaAaBrkfwiorANWoLrA46UKxVnk8XJhKcIttoodbudMJAoMQ2sUcBPdQaN3paFrwt9IMYlGYn2CAQuTc7PJrT_T4JHRCHX4CvMd3bGLz_16X2Dfkw1la_5EPMxsRB9kT6rZFQrE/s1600/1600872788534.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><p>I have been a long time fan and follower of the <a href="https://www.sixminutemile.com/" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">Six Minute Mile Newsletter</span></b></a>. Created back in late 2019, this newsletter caught on fast and instantly picked up steam during Covid as the guys behind it had lots of time on their hands and even more to write about and those of us who were stuck at home were eager and willing to take advantage of all that it had to offer. Chock full of running, cycling and fitness related info that includes everything from shoe reviews to nutrition info to PT suggestions to inspirational stories that you might never have heard otherwise, <span style="color: #b45f06;">Six Minute Mile</span> truly has something for everyone. The emails come twice a week and readers can either do a quick browse of all the hot topics which typically takes about, you guessed it, six minutes, or do a deep dive into the subject matter as links to more details are always provided. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTfICwzt2r6PXCF95ZN3TsYBHpf0OfvbLj79Pkjat3UbVLKRTPVOvDro9zGfdHvVD89xcsiKssFtdFJiTzbMwgWFMQRw6ms-8CAFQVY-0hC_uSsGMgrLQPU5utBYJFxz3y3AbME9Qm4uylPXuF8Vh6VhZxUTHMJ0wqlfLFgtX9l-OhflCzHw9T1irGVbY/s600/sixminutemile_edit827%20(1).webp" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="120" data-original-width="600" height="64" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTfICwzt2r6PXCF95ZN3TsYBHpf0OfvbLj79Pkjat3UbVLKRTPVOvDro9zGfdHvVD89xcsiKssFtdFJiTzbMwgWFMQRw6ms-8CAFQVY-0hC_uSsGMgrLQPU5utBYJFxz3y3AbME9Qm4uylPXuF8Vh6VhZxUTHMJ0wqlfLFgtX9l-OhflCzHw9T1irGVbY/s320/sixminutemile_edit827%20(1).webp" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimf56VlYGjOyOV3X2hIMo5NLEdBs7ip2qxSi-eMUB6qWnOZ6g6WBhNO31XHfrr9q_oCCQpu34bjQj82DuiLsxds_WbV7J5KWB1yPI8QNmN624sUzRsQMZeRHJcDfHL7uBFYAanATwu7zB0fuPx7Da0zXfr7Zdx_skz0-AlPs0n87d3lDqBmhPn4cxOl0g/s470/issues.webp" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="470" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimf56VlYGjOyOV3X2hIMo5NLEdBs7ip2qxSi-eMUB6qWnOZ6g6WBhNO31XHfrr9q_oCCQpu34bjQj82DuiLsxds_WbV7J5KWB1yPI8QNmN624sUzRsQMZeRHJcDfHL7uBFYAanATwu7zB0fuPx7Da0zXfr7Zdx_skz0-AlPs0n87d3lDqBmhPn4cxOl0g/s320/issues.webp" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>Personally, it is now something that I legitimately look forward to getting in my inbox and gives me a good reason to check my email which, as a high school track coach, I'm quickly learning most people under the age of 21 no longer do. So, why am I telling you all this? Well, first because if you don't already, you should take a second to <a href="https://www.sixminutemile.com/" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">subscribe</span></b></a>. I'm guessing if you are an <b><span style="color: #b45f06;">RWM</span></b> reader you likely share my interest in fitness-related news. It's really a no-brainer. But also, and I'm really excited about this, because as of this week, <b><span style="color: #b45f06;">RWM </span></b>will have a music-related spot in the newsletter each week. I have curated a list of unique gems that I feel others, like yourself, should know about. And mind you, I do not discriminate. I'm throwing out songs from all genres - fast, slow, pop, techno, funk - all of it. Maybe you want to run to it, do some yoga to it or cut a rug to it or perhaps you just dig it and want to learn more about the artist. All good things. I plan to compile the songs into a playlist made specifically for <span style="color: #b45f06;">RWM & Six Minute Mile </span>readers so you can find them all in one place each week. Big thanks to the <span style="color: #b45f06;">Six Minute Mile</span> crew for letting me jump on board their platform with some music related news. Hope you find some new and different tunes that you're both fired up about and eager to share with others. Six minutes. And a song. Let's do this.</p><p><b><span style="color: #800180; font-size: medium;">SMM & RWM:</span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: medium;">HEADPHONE REVIEWS</span></b></p><div style="text-align: left;">1. <a href="https://www.sixminutemile.com/post/headphone-review-back-bay-audio-tempo-30-50" target="_blank"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Backbay Audio - Tempo 30</span></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">2. <a href="https://www.sixminutemile.com/post/headphone-review-shokz-openrun-pro-180" target="_blank"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Shockz - Open Run Pro</span></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">3.<a href="https://www.sixminutemile.com/post/headphone-review-jaybird-sports-vista-2" target="_blank"><span style="color: #b45f06;"> Jaybird Sports - Vista 2</span></a></div><p><b><span style="color: #800180; font-size: medium;">SMM & RWM: </span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: medium;">FRIDAY SONGS</span></b></p><p>Click <a href="https://runningwithmusic.blogspot.com/2023/11/rwm-smm-friday-tracks.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #800180;"><b>here</b></span></a> for more about each song. Click below to listen to the full playlist. <span style="color: #b45f06;">#TurnItUp</span></p>
<iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="352" loading="lazy" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/playlist/7GKUSPAnyVZzrfqVU1KxIL?utm_source=generator" style="border-radius: 12px;" width="100%"></iframe><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>RUNNINGWITHMUSIChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08229272359508846579noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086750970765027099.post-70442339743985977492023-07-26T09:32:00.009-07:002023-07-26T15:30:15.454-07:00SUMMER RAMBLINGS<div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">"But it's all right here, right now<br />In your hands and still out of reach somehow<br />This endless precipice<br />Or honey whatever it is<br />Oh, it just don't get better than this"</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>'This'</b>, OK Go</span></div><p>It's been a minute. And I wish I had some awesome story or epic adventure to share with you. But, I don't. Truthfully? Mid-summer is always the point in the year when I wonder whether it's worth keeping a blog going. There's not a lot of racing on the calendar. I don't have a lot going on with coaching or my girls. Well, that's not true. Rosie & Grace are, in fact, quite busy. Just not with things that involve me. But you get the point. Things are relatively quiet. At the same, this little lull in run/mom/work life during the summer is usually the calm before the fall storm, if you will. And this year, the "storm" will be totally different as Rosie will be flying out to Colorado for her first year of college. <i>What??? </i></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6gksxs0iZA3OsFDQjTQW9qOQhEH-kIyG3anLG34cGcv_zbwOcxVmfuoposDcyuTEm6_Ff1OojaBjqF5xz2awsNfZ6TqwxEYKcuctVE6-ptlrgD1TQh043CmPQhD4AC-XRcl0tilYv-2XaP1KZiUMX6QBR1IC2sQxjAY9IV61ESFZVA2BiYVcrazRb_9Q/s640/IMG_0759.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="478" data-original-width="640" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6gksxs0iZA3OsFDQjTQW9qOQhEH-kIyG3anLG34cGcv_zbwOcxVmfuoposDcyuTEm6_Ff1OojaBjqF5xz2awsNfZ6TqwxEYKcuctVE6-ptlrgD1TQh043CmPQhD4AC-XRcl0tilYv-2XaP1KZiUMX6QBR1IC2sQxjAY9IV61ESFZVA2BiYVcrazRb_9Q/s320/IMG_0759.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Fun fact, I created this blog back in 2011. I was just starting to get serious about training and racing. It was my first year as an assistant XC and track coach over at LHS. And Rosie and Grace were....wait for it...5 and 7 years old. I can't even.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisWXuV53U-z7-BNDjHCnpo8q1SXjDCmy4Ey7O3jFL8sJl03BxylenUoNkvGO3-sapEpkhMOI71q5jDjuf1QJVx16Y1UTUvHMiMxg0IaWSi3fr88zReZKTvL_D-xhalZ7rn5nR8eCSFHC1Z6W-7Mwqj0-Uq0z40fqNUA-LfuOLJb0qcjS1glKCHhzfMYxs/s462/IMG_5570-1.JPEG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="449" data-original-width="462" height="311" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisWXuV53U-z7-BNDjHCnpo8q1SXjDCmy4Ey7O3jFL8sJl03BxylenUoNkvGO3-sapEpkhMOI71q5jDjuf1QJVx16Y1UTUvHMiMxg0IaWSi3fr88zReZKTvL_D-xhalZ7rn5nR8eCSFHC1Z6W-7Mwqj0-Uq0z40fqNUA-LfuOLJb0qcjS1glKCHhzfMYxs/s320/IMG_5570-1.JPEG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Here we are now. Twelve years later. I've run 31 marathons. I'm the head girls XC and track coach over at LHS. Rosie is 18 and Grace is 16. Rosie has just graduated from high school and Grace is going to be a junior. And if I'm being honest, it still hasn't really hit me that she's leaving. Totally nuts. All of it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQUKV3boCaEGveqEQsChpgR5JTpEfaPteyPNZwgwhOotZYSzCGKAoNe7kuSAzbVvNjW0It6uMTH3_xq6ftSzb2QycS886SdAjAylXUzRxvswonHj_yeoxNwH7ICH8hoz6Ksvh-APTABOopd7JLPL688ki-Wd0nw1JONb4rkvAKB3JYy-k2XUGJSzuCCKw/s640/Screenshot%202023-07-25%20at%202.09.47%20PM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="637" data-original-width="640" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQUKV3boCaEGveqEQsChpgR5JTpEfaPteyPNZwgwhOotZYSzCGKAoNe7kuSAzbVvNjW0It6uMTH3_xq6ftSzb2QycS886SdAjAylXUzRxvswonHj_yeoxNwH7ICH8hoz6Ksvh-APTABOopd7JLPL688ki-Wd0nw1JONb4rkvAKB3JYy-k2XUGJSzuCCKw/s320/Screenshot%202023-07-25%20at%202.09.47%20PM.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As far as running goes, the last race I posted about here was <a href="https://runningwithmusic.blogspot.com/2023/04/race-reviewboston-2023.html" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">Boston</span></b></a> which went relatively well all things considered. It is a pretty crazy story if you're curious. A few weeks after that, my Whirlaway teammates and I lined up again for the BAA Half. I have never felt more physically exhausted before a race then for this one. Like, the morning of, I was seriously wondering if I could even finish it. And, as you can see, I basically slept my way through it. Ok, I didn't. But the photo above does capture exactly how I felt at the moment. The combination of the end of our spring track season at LHS, the end of Rosie's senior year and the general fatigue I was still feeling from the marathon had me in a virtual puddle. I had no business racing again. But, we've all be there, done that. For the next six or seven weeks I was kind of a hot mess. My running was garbage. Every mile felt terrible. I was tired all the time. Taking naps at 5:00pm and then getting in bed again at 9:00. Physically I was hanging by my fingernails and I thought it was because I had too much going on and I couldn't get ahead of it. Not so. After multiple different blood tests, I finally learned that I'd been dealing with Mono which I'd probably gotten right around the same time that I raced the half. Honestly, I was thrilled to finally figure this out as I was starting to think there was something very wrong with me. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdJKtG225zF3lqEB31r2XqY64i87i8LzWmFWe_HJFNpCye-UyUQkdKWipGESTe5tFGKAKYNHURtwnIrjVK_uWT5WbTvPyaJT32jwJMF5Feoa9tiagmGtkwM5GINZnHNAVgnOPfzl7-adVZtwVVnb-a8R2EOu7JyLXD8aPIteum25PAaKzJqtFTwiTap0E/s640/IMG_2328.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdJKtG225zF3lqEB31r2XqY64i87i8LzWmFWe_HJFNpCye-UyUQkdKWipGESTe5tFGKAKYNHURtwnIrjVK_uWT5WbTvPyaJT32jwJMF5Feoa9tiagmGtkwM5GINZnHNAVgnOPfzl7-adVZtwVVnb-a8R2EOu7JyLXD8aPIteum25PAaKzJqtFTwiTap0E/s320/IMG_2328.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Running through Mono is not the best idea and I don't recommend it but in fairness to me I didn't know I had it. The net-net here was that running pretty much sucked for all of June and part of July. But I still managed to slog my way through quite a few miles. And instead of training and racing I just ran a lot of easy miles with friends from all over the place. Which I loved. I met up with my best friend Laurie in CT.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO0Z5KJNvzlFEUeKeIb59P2YULjmFDFxai1_BL-eTY4wtGKZX3bvYsN0gp15clx7-idT7Vjow1oJadZA4zgfSdqh5Z4axD2sdhvTW_iMm77NuRelEKn_HtgHm1wQcmfZSJI2JQ7HoARDSG_5oTiiFUF3dZTyQeUH4pjMAGlNFP8Rsj5A9ujpq82CLZu7s/s640/IMG_2483.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO0Z5KJNvzlFEUeKeIb59P2YULjmFDFxai1_BL-eTY4wtGKZX3bvYsN0gp15clx7-idT7Vjow1oJadZA4zgfSdqh5Z4axD2sdhvTW_iMm77NuRelEKn_HtgHm1wQcmfZSJI2JQ7HoARDSG_5oTiiFUF3dZTyQeUH4pjMAGlNFP8Rsj5A9ujpq82CLZu7s/s320/IMG_2483.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I got a few runs in with my friend Jayne who I reconnected with after having run a marathon together back in 2015. That was an unexpected surprise.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9CTMItegPo6CpBsUlKSBBCpUjk2WgQzJ8epbN1jUo_5irDL4Eq8T_XAfN4ezYmoQYn50lQWFIh_GmBHcvCIFse9WHBPneHa8Kw0WzFnyNqESSrpj3J-FnhldiapRJjIvrOOhD9SqaB55VBbn3n1McuoVevBhDdHXlL3gw42q_oE82OC5YfvM0-HZZyvw/s640/IMG_2211.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9CTMItegPo6CpBsUlKSBBCpUjk2WgQzJ8epbN1jUo_5irDL4Eq8T_XAfN4ezYmoQYn50lQWFIh_GmBHcvCIFse9WHBPneHa8Kw0WzFnyNqESSrpj3J-FnhldiapRJjIvrOOhD9SqaB55VBbn3n1McuoVevBhDdHXlL3gw42q_oE82OC5YfvM0-HZZyvw/s320/IMG_2211.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I even ran a 5k with Grace. Which she never does with me so I was obviously thrilled. Though I tried hard not to show it. Which I probably didn't really accomplish.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIwFtfSaLi_FCUIMNqfk9QD1_XC7sWl-WB0wSseRYPsumncnu4r6Fh3c0w5o36MTQytlVPaztLUYonP1PNWrw9dXdptrWA64I4DabRYjbHWvyvr1KSt7LDWPhhZdaBr6W30ZYkxe-NFZW1T4hh_BCBniGZnYDHtW21Tlf-W16A8JlsolYKVWaCjlyZFwk/s385/IMG_2459.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="341" data-original-width="385" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIwFtfSaLi_FCUIMNqfk9QD1_XC7sWl-WB0wSseRYPsumncnu4r6Fh3c0w5o36MTQytlVPaztLUYonP1PNWrw9dXdptrWA64I4DabRYjbHWvyvr1KSt7LDWPhhZdaBr6W30ZYkxe-NFZW1T4hh_BCBniGZnYDHtW21Tlf-W16A8JlsolYKVWaCjlyZFwk/s320/IMG_2459.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Bottom line, life was pretty crazy in the spring and then quiet and weird at the start of the summer. Running, as I know it, was on the back burner for a while as I focused on getting my energy back and just spending as much quality time as I could with my family. It's now late July and I've finally turned a corner with my health. Thus, I'm also slowly starting to ramp it back up as far as my training goes. All my racing this fall (5 miler, 10 miler, marathon) will have a team focus for a change, which I am super excited about. At this stage in the game it's a lot more fun to compete with friends who share the same goal then to keep chasing the solo goals on my own. On top of that, I'm guessing starting the school year off with only one kid in the house will be very different, fun, sad, quiet, strange, all of the above. And I suppose all of this will give me a few more things to blog about as we close out the year. So perhaps I'll keep things going for a little while longer. This was, indeed, a mega rambler. Thanks, as always, for following along. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidkt4QbgZ0edII7GEYcUYIXUonoRZveYH4slrHcejB12ufEzyKoMzM2_xVsxd4SswA3ubeWZnQjXFI2JQkN2laqoTS9hC_yrDqvge0MskIcRIjYVBTh_80XpZ0xfHtxhv8GSRilxz5JUqWaUOj2AhvIHbXc1ZrROd94HH1zsEX_jkDT2OHW3jdKj4ElRk/s640/IMG_2841.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="483" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidkt4QbgZ0edII7GEYcUYIXUonoRZveYH4slrHcejB12ufEzyKoMzM2_xVsxd4SswA3ubeWZnQjXFI2JQkN2laqoTS9hC_yrDqvge0MskIcRIjYVBTh_80XpZ0xfHtxhv8GSRilxz5JUqWaUOj2AhvIHbXc1ZrROd94HH1zsEX_jkDT2OHW3jdKj4ElRk/s320/IMG_2841.jpg" width="242" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Listen to this:</span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/0N63RBpTovevPppc3D8NZj?si=595c10064edd4ce3" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: #800180;">This</span></b></a><span style="color: #b45f06;"> by OK Go</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><iframe allow="autoplay" frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1553840632&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true" width="100%"></iframe></div></div></div><div style="color: #cccccc; font-family: Interstate, "Lucida Grande", "Lucida Sans Unicode", "Lucida Sans", Garuda, Verdana, Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-weight: 100; line-break: anywhere; overflow: hidden; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap; word-break: normal;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/okgo" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="OK Go">OK Go</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/okgo/this" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="This">This</a></div>RUNNINGWITHMUSIChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08229272359508846579noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086750970765027099.post-9050230245663193222023-05-12T08:57:00.004-07:002023-05-12T08:57:53.805-07:00RWR:MEET PETE FRANCIS, SINGER, SONGWRITER<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180;"><i> “There’s a lot of healing & a lot of forgiveness in these songs,...It can be scary to face your fears & ask the tough questions, but sometimes you have to step into the darkness in order to find your light.”</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>~ Pete Francis, </b>on his new album 'Brighter Days'</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3po_tUpcR2zmqRHYijT926A23PcH2X9Xo4oR1VDYiae02smJ_K0p5ZhqZ3_Hr78cY_ZoOa2ANmLTLv5nweprNl5IhDk-6Agu5MfK8QvSbe6FO4WO80-KnJajROeV2mxd62Wv-bIiRl8W2A8kcq5mepVVEUhEwoscMpNrlVz-wshKEuC_ogBPWjYdY/s864/0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="864" data-original-width="577" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3po_tUpcR2zmqRHYijT926A23PcH2X9Xo4oR1VDYiae02smJ_K0p5ZhqZ3_Hr78cY_ZoOa2ANmLTLv5nweprNl5IhDk-6Agu5MfK8QvSbe6FO4WO80-KnJajROeV2mxd62Wv-bIiRl8W2A8kcq5mepVVEUhEwoscMpNrlVz-wshKEuC_ogBPWjYdY/s320/0.jpg" width="214" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: left;">When I was growing up, there was this really cool kid that lived down the street from me. His name was Pete. He didn't go to my school but we hung out in the same circles during the summer. Two things I remember about this guy. One, he was always the center of attention, in a good way. It didn't take much for him to make people laugh. And two, he was always singing. He carried this huge Beatles song book around with him and would randomly open to a page, look at you and say, "Oh, I love this one. Want to hear it?". To which you obviously had to say, "yes, yes I do." Pete might not even remember this as we were in grade school at the time without a care in the world. But I have a vivid picture of the scene in my head and I remember thinking, there is no doubt this kid is going to be a musician of some kind. Fast forward to now. His solo album, '<a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/7raKPmlU1rz26xz8ut5HjW?si=ILwxPSDYSkefrH9OeHpkNQ" target="_blank"><span style="color: #800180;"><b>PTRN SKY</b></span></a>' releases today, May 12th. What happened between now and then? He went to Middlebury College, founded the indie band Dispatch, rose to fame quickly, quietly battled depression while he was touring and recording and finally decided to step away from the band to focus on his mental health and well being. But in most cases, the fire and drive for singing and songwriting never leaves the artist. And thankfully for us, he channeled his healing into his work which eventually lead him to his solo career and the launch of his new album. In his own words:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><span style="color: #b45f06;">“Sharing is in and of itself an act of healing....There’s still a lot of stigma and shame when it comes to talking openly about mental illness, but I think when we share our emotions and our experiences in real and constructive ways, we invite others to do the same, to feel less fearful and isolated, and there’s something really liberating about that.”</span></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><span style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></span></i></div><div style="text-align: left;">I am so honored to introduce you to Pete and to share his story and music with you. So much gratitude to him for opening up to RWM and letting us peer through his lens to understand what brought him to where he is now. Hope to see you soon, Pete, and, yes, I still want to hear that song. Without further ado, let's meet Pete, a RUNNER WHO ROCKS.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">RWR:</span><span style="color: #800180;">MEET PETE FRANCIS</span></b></h3><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #800180;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGODh-fKhdibBFKczAXvZaQeC-1kk2OjYV5ZmJKVRDfVgRRS-wlJuwkZxSdF-AcEr2stq2OsbCK5STqpaSkLIKaIPrfZL13oRilCWN5UJCJ_hXqpzBou3riSKKVgJ0Zu7WHkIVRoqctkS-a5W_wJY3RJ718gM89bk9zWf2Cb_GUmdKz0KahPrt65ee/s225/download-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="224" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGODh-fKhdibBFKczAXvZaQeC-1kk2OjYV5ZmJKVRDfVgRRS-wlJuwkZxSdF-AcEr2stq2OsbCK5STqpaSkLIKaIPrfZL13oRilCWN5UJCJ_hXqpzBou3riSKKVgJ0Zu7WHkIVRoqctkS-a5W_wJY3RJ718gM89bk9zWf2Cb_GUmdKz0KahPrt65ee/s1600/download-1.jpg" width="224" /></a></div><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;">Name:</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="color: #800180;">Peter Francis Heimbold</span><br /></span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;">Professional Name: </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #800180;">Pete Francis</span><br /></span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;">Where you're from: </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #800180;">Riverside, CT</span><br /></span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;">Where you reside now: </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #800180;">Old Greenwich, CT</span><br /></span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;">Age: </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #800180;">47</span><br /></span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;">Occupation:</span><span style="color: #800180; font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #800180;">Singer/Songwriter/Musician</span><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Blog/website: </span><a href="http://PETEFRANCIS.COM"><b><span style="color: #800180;">PETEFRANCIS.COM</span><br /></b></a></span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>ON RUNNING & MUSIC</b><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">What do you love most about running? </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #800180;">Finding a cool pair of sneakers to run in.</span><br /></span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;">What do you love most about music? </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="color: #800180; font-family: inherit;">Music is my meditation.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHhSFaiypepHB2LswwbsWfEF_Ki38BZ-GsAbKK3725p932bnNpWn5a4Q07M4d75SqqucUKlgy4jNrG8Y__Cr2Bd1r4F1wFEOfCbVKh3dZO-r_KW-Mt1QOm9r_7lgmnKZXenas72VKsnbZg6DBczN6lkL5X-PA4N2KhZC6JDpx-emTjOaCFS2QdaNBX/s370/petefrancis.jpg.precrop.0,15,370,273.xjpeg.preset.sixteen-nine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="208" data-original-width="370" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHhSFaiypepHB2LswwbsWfEF_Ki38BZ-GsAbKK3725p932bnNpWn5a4Q07M4d75SqqucUKlgy4jNrG8Y__Cr2Bd1r4F1wFEOfCbVKh3dZO-r_KW-Mt1QOm9r_7lgmnKZXenas72VKsnbZg6DBczN6lkL5X-PA4N2KhZC6JDpx-emTjOaCFS2QdaNBX/w400-h225/petefrancis.jpg.precrop.0,15,370,273.xjpeg.preset.sixteen-nine.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;"><b>PETE'S FAVORITES:</b><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Band (current, all time or both): </span><span style="color: #800180;">PINK FLOYD</span><br /></span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;">Album (current, all time or both): </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #800180;">MOONDANCE BY VAN MORRISON</span><br /></span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;">Race venue: </span><span style="color: #800180; font-family: inherit;">MY BACKYARD or THE BEACH</span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;">Music venue: </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #800180;">RED ROCKS</span><br /></span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;">Race distance: </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #800180;">SHORTER THE BETTER ; )</span><br /></span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;">Show you've seen live: </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #800180;">RADIOHEAD AT ROSELAND IN NYC</span><br /></span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;">Ice cream flavor: </span><span style="color: #800180; font-family: inherit;">SOFT SERVE VANILLA/CHOCOLATE TWIST</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8QavOr9azFus6GOz1e3BHXnnjaCgOry6u9QcXuJc2aVNKaph9P_68A19RvsZSWFK-CFqYPHL0mDl_q8fgZifnIHxcA9q_1DTwcL8SCz_cy-y__iMW1VkkFyYh3zlFCHGmHWNqBSPZX-NpwGB4XI8rHjstfs7H55SE7P51c15V9DAESVE5j5jlRbO5/s199/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="193" data-original-width="199" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8QavOr9azFus6GOz1e3BHXnnjaCgOry6u9QcXuJc2aVNKaph9P_68A19RvsZSWFK-CFqYPHL0mDl_q8fgZifnIHxcA9q_1DTwcL8SCz_cy-y__iMW1VkkFyYh3zlFCHGmHWNqBSPZX-NpwGB4XI8rHjstfs7H55SE7P51c15V9DAESVE5j5jlRbO5/s1600/images.jpg" width="199" /></a></div><br /><br /></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>THIS OR THAT:</b></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Sweet or salty? </span><span style="color: #800180;">BOTH</span><br /></span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;">Live or recorded?</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #800180;"> BOTH</span><br /></span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;">Coffee or tea? </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #800180;">TEA</span><br /></span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;">Summer or winter? </span><span style="color: #800180; font-family: inherit;">WINTER OR THE LAST TWO WEEKS IN AUGUST</span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;">Cup or cone?</span><span style="color: #800180; font-family: inherit;"> CUP</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;"><b><br /><br /></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;"><b>MORE MUSIC INFO:</b></span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Which band or artist would you go see tonight if you could? </span><span style="color: #800180;">THE WOOD BROTHERS</span></span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;">Which band or artist (wait...but no longer alive or playing together) would you go see tonight if you could? </span><span style="color: #800180; font-family: inherit;">MILES DAVIS</span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;">Which band or artist would you like to have dinner with tonight if you could? </span><span style="color: #800180; font-family: inherit;">STEVIE WONDER</span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;">Which band or artist would you like to be playing alongside you during your next race (or long run)? </span><span style="color: #800180; font-family: inherit;">PARLIAMENT-FUNKADELIC</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik6a9maY6erAyunyzTWsK1KpnkEZdLwlT8-sZo8kbcFSWhzPo3CIm6ngt30lDxud9CTRWreMNexEgTV9_bwITQ4ycLxc8chiJ0DCjannqOa-jgvY4uVQ9FPaFPPRq9NgyE89CdNkIVaZhHe9NSFAMSNfA_wU0rBp2T8kO0vm98TFtW1A1lvxpHPXVx/s2880/unnamed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="2880" height="166" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik6a9maY6erAyunyzTWsK1KpnkEZdLwlT8-sZo8kbcFSWhzPo3CIm6ngt30lDxud9CTRWreMNexEgTV9_bwITQ4ycLxc8chiJ0DCjannqOa-jgvY4uVQ9FPaFPPRq9NgyE89CdNkIVaZhHe9NSFAMSNfA_wU0rBp2T8kO0vm98TFtW1A1lvxpHPXVx/w400-h166/unnamed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Legendary <b>Pink Floyd</b> <span style="font-size: x-small;">(Photo: YouTube music)</span></div></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwP0M6Vc1i5Ckell7aCxmofa3vV8Qy77TeFwmPKqe3mI2Rj0xg32Raqs8yFFT8Z1INRdUIqEhhG5B6iIP4UFnTlSLIVHoELKMOznOtKTv_RTxbXBiAsku2VhFrrX17jGoWGTOTJrmdhKymd-DqRXIWuK5HZWF0WJR_K-k1zAOaGInMb0Hevbo78Z6_/s1230/Screenshot+2023-04-11+at+3.46.04+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwP0M6Vc1i5Ckell7aCxmofa3vV8Qy77TeFwmPKqe3mI2Rj0xg32Raqs8yFFT8Z1INRdUIqEhhG5B6iIP4UFnTlSLIVHoELKMOznOtKTv_RTxbXBiAsku2VhFrrX17jGoWGTOTJrmdhKymd-DqRXIWuK5HZWF0WJR_K-k1zAOaGInMb0Hevbo78Z6_/s1230/Screenshot+2023-04-11+at+3.46.04+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwP0M6Vc1i5Ckell7aCxmofa3vV8Qy77TeFwmPKqe3mI2Rj0xg32Raqs8yFFT8Z1INRdUIqEhhG5B6iIP4UFnTlSLIVHoELKMOznOtKTv_RTxbXBiAsku2VhFrrX17jGoWGTOTJrmdhKymd-DqRXIWuK5HZWF0WJR_K-k1zAOaGInMb0Hevbo78Z6_/s1230/Screenshot+2023-04-11+at+3.46.04+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1230" data-original-width="689" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwP0M6Vc1i5Ckell7aCxmofa3vV8Qy77TeFwmPKqe3mI2Rj0xg32Raqs8yFFT8Z1INRdUIqEhhG5B6iIP4UFnTlSLIVHoELKMOznOtKTv_RTxbXBiAsku2VhFrrX17jGoWGTOTJrmdhKymd-DqRXIWuK5HZWF0WJR_K-k1zAOaGInMb0Hevbo78Z6_/s320/Screenshot+2023-04-11+at+3.46.04+PM.png" width="179" /></span></a></div><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;"><b>LAST ONE:</b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span><span style="color: #b45f06;">Today, I feel like….....….(fill in the blank)</span><span style="color: #800180;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #800180;">HANGING OUT WITH MY DOGS</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;"><b>Top 5 Songs for running, dancing or both?</b></span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="color: #800180;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">* LOVELY DAY by BILL WITHERS<br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">* COULD YOU BE LOVED by BOB MARLEY<br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">* COUNTRY ROAD by TOOTS & THE MAYTALS <br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">* BLAST OFF by LETTUCE<br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">* DEBRA by BECK</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">Last 5 Songs you listened to today?</span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #800180;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">* INDIANA by THE SAMPLES<br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">* THIS AIN'T LIVING by G LOVE & SPECIAL SAUCE<br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">* PARAD(W/M)E By SYLVAN ESSO<br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">* ELECTRIC RELAXATION by TRIBE CALLED QUEST<br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">* FIND YOURSELF by LUKAS NELSON AND PROMISE OF THE REAL</span></span></div><div><br /></div>RUNNINGWITHMUSIChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08229272359508846579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086750970765027099.post-59816103692843808522023-04-21T04:11:00.004-07:002023-04-23T06:58:39.679-07:00RACE REVIEW:BOSTON 2023<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf3joUAAyCyg3jAtwo1r_d2FohevYSpJY66CDyaVuBHzw1PdocEfcTaLayU93vUiBFvh8TMMkG-vA6Z3PFsoQO5P35es58QQ8ipCd1HjGgtKYSzpSqbtkcNrxZ6CXNv3VT_VgxOyZUx3jmovxotORgpTELcWST5CeyaQxNVbbWYQU8psddJisfY8uR/s490/0-7.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf3joUAAyCyg3jAtwo1r_d2FohevYSpJY66CDyaVuBHzw1PdocEfcTaLayU93vUiBFvh8TMMkG-vA6Z3PFsoQO5P35es58QQ8ipCd1HjGgtKYSzpSqbtkcNrxZ6CXNv3VT_VgxOyZUx3jmovxotORgpTELcWST5CeyaQxNVbbWYQU8psddJisfY8uR/s490/0-7.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf3joUAAyCyg3jAtwo1r_d2FohevYSpJY66CDyaVuBHzw1PdocEfcTaLayU93vUiBFvh8TMMkG-vA6Z3PFsoQO5P35es58QQ8ipCd1HjGgtKYSzpSqbtkcNrxZ6CXNv3VT_VgxOyZUx3jmovxotORgpTELcWST5CeyaQxNVbbWYQU8psddJisfY8uR/s490/0-7.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf3joUAAyCyg3jAtwo1r_d2FohevYSpJY66CDyaVuBHzw1PdocEfcTaLayU93vUiBFvh8TMMkG-vA6Z3PFsoQO5P35es58QQ8ipCd1HjGgtKYSzpSqbtkcNrxZ6CXNv3VT_VgxOyZUx3jmovxotORgpTELcWST5CeyaQxNVbbWYQU8psddJisfY8uR/s490/0-7.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">"And if you abandon all your hopes </span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180;"><i>and dreams, </i><i>you'll find</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">That it's no use to be tender or </span></i></div></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">that you had tried</span></i></div><div style="font-style: italic; text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">Oh, that you had tried"</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Frankie Rose, 'Anything'</span></div><div style="font-style: italic; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxpkEcjMZPjavfSiEpJJsRv6vLbN_yL0WxgwlhvgK0swoao2KUo9JDo9ql_9FDc59jIFg09FnNG296RWRQZKWpQ3IwXeD9PaeL_b7191ZH_9e3cas0RYg1_P7aoS07Wa4bPBjZiMXb4g5p0IbzKFxYZfGVcg2ZrKul4znwSDGQThNbUzLG75B-HiK4/s490/0-7.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="490" data-original-width="479" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxpkEcjMZPjavfSiEpJJsRv6vLbN_yL0WxgwlhvgK0swoao2KUo9JDo9ql_9FDc59jIFg09FnNG296RWRQZKWpQ3IwXeD9PaeL_b7191ZH_9e3cas0RYg1_P7aoS07Wa4bPBjZiMXb4g5p0IbzKFxYZfGVcg2ZrKul4znwSDGQThNbUzLG75B-HiK4/s320/0-7.jpg" width="313" /></a></div>On Monday, April 17th I completed my 10th Boston Marathon. You will probably not be surprised to hear that it did not go as planned. But marathons rarely do. There was some good, some bad and a little crazy mixed in and after a few days of processing I'm finally ready to break it down. So, here we go. As you may know from my last post, I was running this year as part of a Masters (age 40+) women's team (otherwise known as pretty fast, older women) and we were going for the title in this category. As you also might know, after many months and an absolutely insane training cycle Amy (left) and Lauren (right) are now like sisters to me. So for this race, I wasn't running for me, but for us. Which is a really cool way to approach a marathon. All three of us managed to make it to April healthy and in one piece which in, and of itself, is a miracle. A quick story before I get into the actual race. The Tuesday before race day I was doing my final workout with my friend, Steve. We were running full speed when I tripped on a pretty significant tree stump and went down hard on my side. Given that we were mid-run, I popped up, dusted myself off and finished the workout. The soreness set in later that day and when I woke up the next morning I couldn't really twist my right side without substantial discomfort. Not that it mattered. I didn't need to do much twisting. And I only had a couple more short runs to do before game time so I was not particularly worried about it. And that's the story. Put that on your back burner for now. On Saturday, our team had a track meet and I was on my feet for five hours. That was not ideal. But the girls slayed and the meet was awesome. So it was worth it. On Sunday I went for a short two mile run, which felt great, and then tried to put my feet up for the rest of the day while also trying not to stress out about the weather for Monday which was looking sub-par. <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDwoHchzLnn4RFl21AKgnFV2-YOAHCmnYqZrV3DiOIOTS_23Rmfrpwx2fuPfkqSvnYvM2CPpVdg4WqfUFcvi4AvLO_zRWXMFe9sC-GE7F1bfCK5u9eUONntkEFzyelErQ2KXQxrsogSiglow0BJYYd1aUxu3RsjmDu1I4Sdn8ZMauNIacUGVYM6rgm/s640/0.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="617" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDwoHchzLnn4RFl21AKgnFV2-YOAHCmnYqZrV3DiOIOTS_23Rmfrpwx2fuPfkqSvnYvM2CPpVdg4WqfUFcvi4AvLO_zRWXMFe9sC-GE7F1bfCK5u9eUONntkEFzyelErQ2KXQxrsogSiglow0BJYYd1aUxu3RsjmDu1I4Sdn8ZMauNIacUGVYM6rgm/s320/0.jpg" width="309" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Sunday night I laid out my gear, ate some dinner and then watched a very bad movie to kill time before I went to bed. Standard procedure. My plan was to get up at 4:30, have some coffee, walk my dogs, drive into Boston, park my car at the hotel where Lauren and Amy were staying and then walk with them to the bus which would be leaving for Hopkinton at 6:45. So, I was tucked in with lights off at 8:30pm. I know, crazy early. As usual, my eyes popped open before my alarm and I was up and moving at 4:25. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjADJ6hr7_mYevHjpHm94Su7S3DR37XxCarnbfU_BVrJ3_Iyw4Ld4XnDTA5lI8Ncse6gFIuBpN1yBrb5RLvxbjnJsf5lTkrfZSH2OiB-WKvmp0Mpfv4q4zHZqoZzxnnrAa65VDXfTVd6xWRF6ESuHz5AOw3vEFrprFFMViw0PNo1ovOb-Kk2XUm1bGu/s640/0-1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjADJ6hr7_mYevHjpHm94Su7S3DR37XxCarnbfU_BVrJ3_Iyw4Ld4XnDTA5lI8Ncse6gFIuBpN1yBrb5RLvxbjnJsf5lTkrfZSH2OiB-WKvmp0Mpfv4q4zHZqoZzxnnrAa65VDXfTVd6xWRF6ESuHz5AOw3vEFrprFFMViw0PNo1ovOb-Kk2XUm1bGu/s320/0-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Clover, who lives for food (first) and attention (second), was right at my feet as I headed downstairs. Enzo, our strange little rescue dog, was like, D<i>ude! It's the middle of the night. What is happening right now? Can you please close the door behind you and be a little quieter. Thanks</i>. Clover and I hung out for a bit and then, much to Enzo's chagrin, we went for a walk in the dark. The weather was ok; as predicted, a little chilly and slightly misting. Not terrible racing conditions if it stayed this way. But you and I both know that never happens when you want it to. I took off for the city at 5:30am and made it over to Copley Square with no issues which was lovely. I found Amy and Lauren easily and we gathered all of our gear and walked over to the buses.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv6n8LiC8ScXawTWqGr2iPv6jvL1J34wWgQXsVDvnEEmGbL1GPfj3JE_oKtCcPw-UYdyt8I1e3eOwGDmQ_9HSWkKdHeK-YQmwRboa0EGFYUhHF-hinCXlbzrtPRMwDml4jUkD3BkXWPp8PCgKocleCaaWpxM1Z2GgGYTVdoh_Mzv78yCAn04tZVXCa/s640/0-1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv6n8LiC8ScXawTWqGr2iPv6jvL1J34wWgQXsVDvnEEmGbL1GPfj3JE_oKtCcPw-UYdyt8I1e3eOwGDmQ_9HSWkKdHeK-YQmwRboa0EGFYUhHF-hinCXlbzrtPRMwDml4jUkD3BkXWPp8PCgKocleCaaWpxM1Z2GgGYTVdoh_Mzv78yCAn04tZVXCa/s320/0-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We found a spot to sit and wait as they weren't loading for a few minutes and we wanted to get off our feet. Note that Lauren and I saved our blankets from our last Boston marathon which was a pro move as they were perfect for keeping us warm and dry and then could be easily tossed when it was go time. The ride out to Hopkinton was about forty five minutes and went relatively smoothly aside from when our driver slammed on the breaks to avoid hitting the bus in front of us as we got off the exit. That got the heart rate going a bit. We unloaded and headed over to the post office which is where our team always meets and waits before the start. Quick shout out to the below race volunteer. Normally, if you leave the official start area, which we were doing, you have to walk all the way back to the beginning of the official entrance to get back in which is about a half mile from the post office. Lauren thought to ask this guy if he'd let us sneak through the gates when our wave was called so we didn't have to do the extra walking. He just winked and said come find him when it was time.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtzJJOGmHMQV2b8FhoeRtcB8SopHKgZO1-5w98hQatHAXbvPopmdG5h6aAw_RreCl06Kk9twPysX-TQ-7B_n5C3ct-h0IE8ZK0RpuSjQAi7ul5HsMoUBhpqt0pQCV-X7hlyib5kax6X5h0EtykqC41-CQ4jOB85FRllRGInJwjvSJamhAlF9VTCrES/s640/0-8.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtzJJOGmHMQV2b8FhoeRtcB8SopHKgZO1-5w98hQatHAXbvPopmdG5h6aAw_RreCl06Kk9twPysX-TQ-7B_n5C3ct-h0IE8ZK0RpuSjQAi7ul5HsMoUBhpqt0pQCV-X7hlyib5kax6X5h0EtykqC41-CQ4jOB85FRllRGInJwjvSJamhAlF9VTCrES/s320/0-8.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Inside the post office we were warm and dry and had our own bathroom for the next two hours which was pretty much as good as it gets for a pre-race set up. We were all incredibly grateful for this. I stretched a little, put my legs up for blood flow, ate some more food and tried to stay calm. This is also when I started to notice the soreness in my rib/armpit area. Whenever I moved my arm to stretch or grab something or did anything abrupt like cough or sneeze I would get a little jolt of pain. Obviously, this was making me nervous. I asked around for Advil but then decided against it in fear of potential stomach issues. Lauren tried to ease my mind and tell me it would be fine once I get going which I appreciated and hoped was true. Maggie, Lauren and I were all starting together in Wave 1 so at 9:40 we said our goodbyes to the rest of our crew and headed over to our assigned corrals. True to his word, yellow jacket guy let us into the start area by quietly opening up the gates for us. Bless him. The three of us wished each other good luck and then went to our corrals. Right after the below photo was taken it started to rain. Steadily. Impeccable timing, as always, from Mother Nature. I tried to keep moving in my little square as I waited the twenty minutes for the first two groups to get going and then reluctantly handed over my blanket just before 10:00am. Then, finally, we were off. Giddy. Up.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT3Zits08rFfv--OMB4kYPbo6zUx2734_w-tSUatoFpHH2yePLdo-jXCprsvbM0fMQ9zOz7jg-7hOwxSe-ERGhIvDKeV8i2Jh54BtXkcIFpDTj56kW-ws_AqyVC0iLi4r1ZG8IJAmlb5CFSQcuBvvcaAym22iYeTPc0P8yfWJznpRfn1qfXKsvNdCl/s640/0-2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT3Zits08rFfv--OMB4kYPbo6zUx2734_w-tSUatoFpHH2yePLdo-jXCprsvbM0fMQ9zOz7jg-7hOwxSe-ERGhIvDKeV8i2Jh54BtXkcIFpDTj56kW-ws_AqyVC0iLi4r1ZG8IJAmlb5CFSQcuBvvcaAym22iYeTPc0P8yfWJznpRfn1qfXKsvNdCl/w400-h300/0-2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">THE RACE:</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #800180;"><b>Miles 1-6</b> (6:56, 6:42, 6:41, 6:38, 6:53, 6:38)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I had two goals for this race. I wanted to run smart. And I wanted to help my team take the Masters title. If I was able to do both of those things, I thought a good time and perhaps even a personal best was in the cards. My training had gone well and I trusted it. If I ran in control, I was due for a good day. My goal pace was around 6:45 per mile so, after navigating a pretty crowded first mile, I gradually clicked into a rhythm making a point not to go too fast down the first section of the course. This first 10K went by smoothly and I was feeling both confident and excited.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcr2-9o8H_rSy1M80o_DcYu2hoSwbTlSnqcXHtDyqkJjXTL0kdF7bYUTXs9W-JfoFfzZXslKbFlDvm_VYZVQX6UX3l0dYIWymj2fuB-xQL7slli23OGaUifsEkxw6Svg2gOxVwdijk_p9e9L6NFKoJu4cOg-yqhgjmym_fILRls5As0_TD21B2Nutm/s1012/399097692.zoomed.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1012" data-original-width="677" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcr2-9o8H_rSy1M80o_DcYu2hoSwbTlSnqcXHtDyqkJjXTL0kdF7bYUTXs9W-JfoFfzZXslKbFlDvm_VYZVQX6UX3l0dYIWymj2fuB-xQL7slli23OGaUifsEkxw6Svg2gOxVwdijk_p9e9L6NFKoJu4cOg-yqhgjmym_fILRls5As0_TD21B2Nutm/w268-h400/399097692.zoomed.jpg" width="268" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #800180;"><b>Miles 6-12</b> (6:38, 6:40, 6:51, 6:40, 6:46, 6:48, 6:41)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I stayed right on track for the next 10k. I watched as people flew by me during this section taking advantage of the downhill ride. Rookie mistake, I thought to myself with a smug grin on my face. <i>We all know the race doesn't start until after Heartbreak Hill. And if you don't, well, I'm sorry. Buckle up because it's gonna be a hell of a ride and it's probably gonna hurt. </i>I started to feel a little low on energy at the end of this section so I grabbed one of the Maurten gels with caffeine that they were handing out and hoped that it would give me a much needed energy boost.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEini9mbDJYF4Aha4aRSaXxAmtsw9_JmZTaljBPWK_k2GDGOtpZ6_Gp6vOfdV6S0uQ8wuQ1MdHJsEpICRLkebv6u4oA7n_OhL1QAGoIjk41ZTMrXnkTWlSIaEBEKmkY8ECDeU2u3zBrfJFXCc3E1mSQzekxVQkBrZamLZbKtGA6M6KatqqIcSqu6Nk0d/s874/400009569.zoomed.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="715" data-original-width="874" height="262" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEini9mbDJYF4Aha4aRSaXxAmtsw9_JmZTaljBPWK_k2GDGOtpZ6_Gp6vOfdV6S0uQ8wuQ1MdHJsEpICRLkebv6u4oA7n_OhL1QAGoIjk41ZTMrXnkTWlSIaEBEKmkY8ECDeU2u3zBrfJFXCc3E1mSQzekxVQkBrZamLZbKtGA6M6KatqqIcSqu6Nk0d/s320/400009569.zoomed.jpg" width="320" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #800180;"><b>Miles 13-21 </b>(6:47, 6:50, 6:55, 6:43, 7:10, 7:07, 6:57, 7:08, 7:31)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And it did for a couple miles. But then, I faded again. My legs were just feeling so heavy and tired. I didn't have any pep whatsoever and I'd really lost my rhythm. At the halfway everyone was looking up at the camera, waving, smiling....<i>YAY, WE'RE HALFWAY.</i> I was like, <i>holy shit, we're only halfway.</i> For the next few miles I could not do anything other than look at my feet and plow forward. If I saw the mile markers I knew it would stress me out because I wasn't even close to the finish. I also could no longer look at my watch. I didn't want to know my time anymore. I just wanted to get through the hills in one piece. As you can see from my pacing, the wheels were wobbling but by no means falling off. I sure as hell felt like they were, though. But then, I looked up and I was at mile 19. I could not believe it. I'd gotten through eight miles and most of the hills and I was okay. Not good. But okay. For the next 1.8 miles I could not stop thinking about the fact that I had to use the bathroom. People talk about peeing in their pants while they run. For the love of Pete, I tried. Because I did not want to stop if I didn't have to. But it was not working. My mind was like, <i>yea, no way. We're not programmed to do that and it's just not gonna happen. </i> Finally, I stepped off. It had to be done. A mother was helping her toddler in the single porto where I'd stopped. The door was open and they were talking, mom was giving her a<i>, “great job, kiddo”</i>. I was like, <i>“can I please use this? Like, now?” </i>She graciously grabbed her daughter and moved out of the way and I quickly took care of my situation. When I was done, I looked at my watch for the first time since the half. I was floored to see that I wasn't that far off my goal time. And even more so to know that I only had 6 miles to go. I remember thinking, LET'S F***ING GO, Rebecca. You can do 6 miles in your sleep. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-1q4uWd8fdkQu7hq0zINj-jak9HZ8UmrBmHtrYfXdk_v7S2G6yKJ0I9tXPNYPjPGIJCy0Lr4JXHYJmwl9UCi9K9ujbMljJkDHVxicJ892odVYGZDigQH8iTxu9YUWTBYtMFuqGCiKTBjbNiQo0IJW-wesnJ-3cQhSioMb7Uhe7pxDxtTEkVfUorvD/s680/0-1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="680" data-original-width="519" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-1q4uWd8fdkQu7hq0zINj-jak9HZ8UmrBmHtrYfXdk_v7S2G6yKJ0I9tXPNYPjPGIJCy0Lr4JXHYJmwl9UCi9K9ujbMljJkDHVxicJ892odVYGZDigQH8iTxu9YUWTBYtMFuqGCiKTBjbNiQo0IJW-wesnJ-3cQhSioMb7Uhe7pxDxtTEkVfUorvD/s320/0-1.jpg" width="244" /></a></div><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180;"><br /></span></div><span style="color: #800180;"><b>Miles 22 - 26.2 </b>(6:55, 7:02, 7:05, 6:59, 7:06)</span><br />I was now able to see the light at the end of the tunnel. And I was pretty damn happy about it. I was smiling. I was looking around for the first time in the race, seeing the crowd, soaking up the noise and feeling the vibe. I was even passing people, likely those who'd gotten too excited at the start and flown down the first half. Sorry, guys. Now you know. I was going to be okay and I knew it. I felt like garbage. My rib hurt. My legs hurt. My shoes were waterlogged. The rain was getting heavier with each step. But I was getting it done. I turned left on Boylston and felt the joy rushing through me as I slogged toward the finish. I knew it wasn't the time I'd wanted. But it was damn close. And it was one of my biggest, and ultimately my best, mental battles ever in a marathon. And there have been many. Thirty to be exact. Thirty freaking marathons. I was so proud of this one. So, so proud of the effort and the fact that despite wanting to give up and walk or even quit a few times, I'd kept it together and finished the damn thing. Final time: 3:02:06. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh14-0PshDorPX2XJPl-EY8YeXNtyQnVukpG56DrdpRIjIdDqQIqwxSbIeqTtXhIsJxTF6uytQ4wYDzPCH8E4yey7zk9ogDgCRlfhFW4395BNLXUYdYZ0FCu20isUHManShLaEd45pL0qMak6i3jkq3qVtctRpc4ZCm7JmLfpdrlv06Rgz9UJh1tOed/s811/0-4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="811" data-original-width="541" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh14-0PshDorPX2XJPl-EY8YeXNtyQnVukpG56DrdpRIjIdDqQIqwxSbIeqTtXhIsJxTF6uytQ4wYDzPCH8E4yey7zk9ogDgCRlfhFW4395BNLXUYdYZ0FCu20isUHManShLaEd45pL0qMak6i3jkq3qVtctRpc4ZCm7JmLfpdrlv06Rgz9UJh1tOed/s320/0-4.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When I saw the photographer as I walked to get my blanket I made a point to stop and document the moment. I wanted to remember this one. This was a good one. This one is worth telling the grandkids about some day. And then the heavens opened up. Literally. It started pouring buckets. Hard, cold, driving rain. Obvs. A volunteer gave me a second blanket to hold over my head and I shuffled to the hotel to find Amy and Lauren and get out of my wet clothes. It was about a half a mile walk to the hotel. It felt like a second marathon. I heard my name from behind me and it was Lauren. I almost cried. Never have I been so happy to see a friend. Not just someone I love, but someone who had just done what I did and who understood how I felt without any explanation. It was so what I needed right then. And bless this woman. We got up to her room....<i>HER ROOM</i>...and she let me take a hot shower first. Now, granted, she couldn't get her shoes off, but still. That is next level selflessness in my book. So much love for both her and Amy who got me through this training cycle, the day itself and will most likely be with me when I line up again. We didn't take the Master's title. We came in second. We were heartbroken. We lost by one minute and eleven seconds. Basically, my bathroom break. Sooooo, yea. In some ways, though, it didn't matter. All three of us had fought tooth and nail to give everything we'd had for each other and that is a beautiful story, one that I will always cherish.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWB3ef4OXaQdwTXefyqa4nZjpR1hMvVEzFTQ6Gd9ypOpJ9JqwKlDlrjmyKcWzTM9KKjeuOYzQbv3IcT43WdN3mjhz8dFC_m0wtCtN6KX4IYMRrLLMe_tulMoAIyWqBGcvXdse6NoR073QGch3KSYvvHyeGLweSrMXtBajl2-OEnSIJiRxW0debEXgx/s811/0-5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="811" data-original-width="744" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWB3ef4OXaQdwTXefyqa4nZjpR1hMvVEzFTQ6Gd9ypOpJ9JqwKlDlrjmyKcWzTM9KKjeuOYzQbv3IcT43WdN3mjhz8dFC_m0wtCtN6KX4IYMRrLLMe_tulMoAIyWqBGcvXdse6NoR073QGch3KSYvvHyeGLweSrMXtBajl2-OEnSIJiRxW0debEXgx/s320/0-5.jpg" width="294" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Speaking of stories. When I woke the day after the race and turned to get out of bed I screamed so loud the neighbors probably heard me. My right side was so sore it was like knife blades were shooting through me when I moved it in any direction. I mean there is post-marathon soreness but this was something else. I consider myself pretty tough but I was not okay. And everything I did, putting socks on, sitting down, standing up, coughing, sneezing; holy hell, a sneeze. The pain was excruciating. I ended up going to the doctor, mostly for piece of mind because I knew there was likely nothing I could do for it. I just really wanted to know what was going on. And he confirmed, that, yes, the rib was broken. An x-ray wasn't necessary. He could hear the click of the bone in his stethoscope when I took a deep breath. He was baffled. "You fell about a week ago. Why does it hurt so much now?" I smiled. "Well, I had a slight increase in activity recently", I told him. He finally got it out of me. "YOU RAN THE MARATHON???" he said as he laughed out loud. I smiled and shrugged. Had to be done. Who knows if this impacted my time. It doesn't matter. The day unfolded as it was going to. I was just along for the ride. A ride that just keeps getting crazier every year. What's next? A little healing. Some rest. And then back in the saddle like always. Same horse. New ride. Let's go.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Listen to this:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/1aivQYasJmmwGdehh0Ny8L?si=70fbd3556b2147b2" target="_blank">Anything</a> - Frankie Rose</div></div></div><p></p>
<iframe allow="autoplay" frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1338901846&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true" width="100%"></iframe><div style="color: #cccccc; font-family: Interstate, "Lucida Grande", "Lucida Sans Unicode", "Lucida Sans", Garuda, Verdana, Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-weight: 100; line-break: anywhere; overflow: hidden; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap; word-break: normal;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/slumberland-records" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="Slumberland Records">Slumberland Records</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/slumberland-records/anything" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="Frankie Rose - Anything">Frankie Rose - Anything</a></div>RUNNINGWITHMUSIChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08229272359508846579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086750970765027099.post-67231830666305383402023-04-11T11:43:00.004-07:002023-04-11T15:49:34.912-07:00WHIRLAWAY BOSTON BUILDUP<div style="text-align: center;"><i><b> <span style="color: #800180;">"Success is best when it is shared."</span></b></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">~ Howard Schultz</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMn0RsIco4xoEHCt-Bx4JGUFEz-dD58aN8F9tqpUwW8UW-y9bqJo_WcnYbFCI7MHKSFc_pVwXObdl0j8gb50TmPi5oYppkzumtVxGU9k5TXk_jElRl1bzPqUFZb82u_dV0cEENCjeuVqNB6yLODAUoHPPvHcCa5lbvm9SvNz7DFP7Og_M9T8V3ek_g/s2585/IMG_0498.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2290" data-original-width="2585" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMn0RsIco4xoEHCt-Bx4JGUFEz-dD58aN8F9tqpUwW8UW-y9bqJo_WcnYbFCI7MHKSFc_pVwXObdl0j8gb50TmPi5oYppkzumtVxGU9k5TXk_jElRl1bzPqUFZb82u_dV0cEENCjeuVqNB6yLODAUoHPPvHcCa5lbvm9SvNz7DFP7Og_M9T8V3ek_g/s320/IMG_0498.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My last <a href="https://runningwithmusic.blogspot.com/2021/10/race-reviewboston-marathon-2021.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Boston Marathon</span></a> was in October of 2021. It was the first time it was being held since Covid. And it was the ninth time I was lining up for this race. I trained very hard. Maybe too hard. Because the week leading up to the race my whole body was tired and I couldn't shake it off. I was just not recovering enough. And right when I started running I could tell that it wasn't going to be my day. My legs were heavy from the first step and felt that way through the whole damn thing. It is heartbreaking to work your ass off only to fall short. We all know this. And after finishing that specific Boston I thought I was done lining up in Hopkinton for good. Don't get me wrong, I love the Boston marathon and the experience is usually pretty epic in the best way. Except for <a href="https://runningwithmusic.blogspot.com/2018/04/boston-marathon-2018.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #b45f06;">2018</span></a>. That was not fun. Like at all. But otherwise, it is almost always a blast no matter what state the body is in. But, after 2021 I just felt like I'd had my fill of the Boston course and didn't need to tackle it again. Like...ever. In 2022, I ran a different spring marathon and then my family went away for spring break. I had a slight pang of sadness and envy as my friends ran through the streets of Boston while I was in the Bahamas. Very slight. But my feelings on Boston remained the same. I really didn't feel the urge to do it again. Fast forward to December 2022. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFb1DYL9eVssGJ0Q_yDSW51rxGY6pS_Qgx1Urx-wgeJab4MEck6utx5M4KpVNOPqXrxIKgCHRqz2JOWXpjKgXuRikp-QhaGDoJcUgo2I-16630JT28xdNr99tUuRo66x1C1ldg_uKex4uo9Nf0FsQ_o5bxlgTeLQa9eD96pCZcM-mP6jDTr_KsVEnN/s1170/IMG_0747.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1038" data-original-width="1170" height="284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFb1DYL9eVssGJ0Q_yDSW51rxGY6pS_Qgx1Urx-wgeJab4MEck6utx5M4KpVNOPqXrxIKgCHRqz2JOWXpjKgXuRikp-QhaGDoJcUgo2I-16630JT28xdNr99tUuRo66x1C1ldg_uKex4uo9Nf0FsQ_o5bxlgTeLQa9eD96pCZcM-mP6jDTr_KsVEnN/s320/IMG_0747.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My teammates, Amy Bernard, Lauren Tilton and I, were meeting up for the Mill Cities Relay. Always a fun event. At some point during that day, perhaps as we were warming up or cooling down, or more likely as I was running my 9.7 mile leg and couldn't really voice my opinion one way or another, Amy casually suggested that we put a Masters (40+) team together for Boston 2023. And then, also at some point during that day, Lauren pretty much confirmed she was in. I can't remember if this was before or after she struggled to park her car. Amy? Sorry, I digress. Anyway, as you'd predict, the plan was made and I was doing it whether I liked it or not. The Whirlaway ladies would be tackling Boston 2023 together as a team. Signed, sealed, delivered. </div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimUg8BbOy8m1Rci6CjSEEwj8b_Zd84YFnoJviHkGvFJueyWwGmnX_1ff_6vQsb_zhVjWoHG7hRRP9w24q60QTI3Dc0YBVovmS9gaGJIrmxCxcbW0c5XOrdP6ci8P4Z7OX1JgocU7WVBfgWFzu7zFgkCASbfGjrcM3SPvsZRz1aVO1rX1s6xOZvYN0G/s4032/IMG_6401-preview.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimUg8BbOy8m1Rci6CjSEEwj8b_Zd84YFnoJviHkGvFJueyWwGmnX_1ff_6vQsb_zhVjWoHG7hRRP9w24q60QTI3Dc0YBVovmS9gaGJIrmxCxcbW0c5XOrdP6ci8P4Z7OX1JgocU7WVBfgWFzu7zFgkCASbfGjrcM3SPvsZRz1aVO1rX1s6xOZvYN0G/s320/IMG_6401-preview.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And thus began our road to Boston. Right after the holidays, the three of us, all coached by the great Ruben Sança of <a href="https://lowellrunning.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>Lowell Running</b></span></a>, would dive head first into one of the most grueling training cycles any of us have ever tackled. Holy hell we did so many miles; most of them difficult and, thankfully, a lot of them together. Long runs, marathon pace runs, tempo runs, hilly runs, marathon pace in our long runs, hills in our long runs, speed work in our long runs. So. Many. Long. Runs. We raced together twice; a 5k and a 15K. We commiserated about running on our treadmills in the thick of winter (not that we aren't grateful to have them). We complained about being tired. We stressed about getting our work done. But, if I'm being honest, across these past four months I have had a freaking blast. And it is one hundred percent due to the fact that I have been training, suffering and celebrating with these amazing women who I am so lucky to call my friends. I don't know how things are going to shake out for me next Monday. Or for our team, for that matter. But regardless of the outcome, it was a hell of a ride to get here. So much love to both of you. Let's do this.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Listen to this:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/6B1cidd3eoUz7R2ArYqor3?si=HkeGi8OUR9Kq-ZBR7mL7dA" target="_blank"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>Take Me Back</b></span></a> <span style="color: #b45f06;">- Thunder Jackson (feat. Chet Faker)</span></div><div></div></div>
<iframe allow="autoplay" frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1334492134&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true" width="100%"></iframe><div style="color: #cccccc; font-family: Interstate, "Lucida Grande", "Lucida Sans Unicode", "Lucida Sans", Garuda, Verdana, Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-weight: 100; line-break: anywhere; overflow: hidden; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap; word-break: normal;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/thunderjackson" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="Thunder Jackson">Thunder Jackson</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/thunderjackson/take-me-back-feat-chet-faker" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="Take Me Back (feat. Chet Faker)">Take Me Back (feat. Chet Faker)</a></div>RUNNINGWITHMUSIChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08229272359508846579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086750970765027099.post-33119833226577764582023-02-24T15:10:00.007-08:002023-02-24T19:03:14.208-08:00RACE REVIEW:SUPER SUNDAY 5K<div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;"> "Time I listen<br />Time I restart<br />Time to live in every present<br />Time I switched up<br />Time take</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">Chase every second"</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">'Wait For It', Salute</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi99ho__yPRBAOpYoNgCGVlW7gXhJre6imevaa6WkRHHDncSmc3fZ9IpV35fB7Uu_4DLWilPJon7TcMpSpHdE7PMf90EOUs3ITK4BRwI3FgfDseQ8bx8_kZzs2C9CartWmpgsi4rq_iD3zEnNepmoDQdhKHHKsv1OMC8CbKv5ELOsc1uTMjCLkDkkPf/s2671/IMG_0103.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2671" data-original-width="2596" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi99ho__yPRBAOpYoNgCGVlW7gXhJre6imevaa6WkRHHDncSmc3fZ9IpV35fB7Uu_4DLWilPJon7TcMpSpHdE7PMf90EOUs3ITK4BRwI3FgfDseQ8bx8_kZzs2C9CartWmpgsi4rq_iD3zEnNepmoDQdhKHHKsv1OMC8CbKv5ELOsc1uTMjCLkDkkPf/w194-h200/IMG_0103.JPG" width="194" /></a></div>Back on Sunday, February 12th I lined up for my first race of the year; the <a href="https://www.racemenu.com/events/206193-Super-Sunday-2023" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">Super Sunday 5K</span></b></a>. I also happened to be turning 48 that same day so for my birthday I would be running my least favorite distance. For fun. Happy birthday to me. Clearly not my first pick, but it was a Whirlaway team event and I like to be a team player when I can plus several of my friends were doing it and my coach basically told me I didn't have a choice. So there's all of that, too. I was up in NH the night before celebrating with some friends so I had to get up and jet back down to Cambridge at the crack of dawn to make it to the race on time. We had a lovely evening with friends so this was absolutely worth it. As always, I laid my gear out the night before and set multiple alarms for the early shift. Note my bib number. We were allowed to choose our numbers when we registered. I freaking love this concept and wish we could do it more often. I'm guessing many of us would happily take all the extra magic we can get when it is offered to us. Obviously I went with 4141 for double the magic. Side note, 41 is my favorite number and the story is too long to share here but I'm happy to tell it to anyone who's interested at any time. Despite not loving the 5k because it is short and ridiculously painful I was super excited about the number and this defintiely cushioned the blow.<div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkw6z0Gk4CVeunDkY0lVN73FV7XZOEF--Tr8fGmlCGxBawNRJDyEuXD06uMxTOoujIoWVRnnhBA-wsJqpfu7RPY2lMdzeMJEEDVfaHA2TWDzXJq-wcf_0JOg8_Cngo8ZFea53PvjQCl5Px84xc89Al04PFVRbfoF-Z0JAim8J6cz815oNG6RMayvcc/s640/C1E53F0D-576E-41A5-BDA4-37BA46E7B7EA.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="604" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkw6z0Gk4CVeunDkY0lVN73FV7XZOEF--Tr8fGmlCGxBawNRJDyEuXD06uMxTOoujIoWVRnnhBA-wsJqpfu7RPY2lMdzeMJEEDVfaHA2TWDzXJq-wcf_0JOg8_Cngo8ZFea53PvjQCl5Px84xc89Al04PFVRbfoF-Z0JAim8J6cz815oNG6RMayvcc/s320/C1E53F0D-576E-41A5-BDA4-37BA46E7B7EA.JPG" width="302" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The race start was 10am but I was out the door at 6:30am because I'd been told that parking for this race was nuts and that it was wise to get there on the early side. No need for the added stress of something controllable like parking. It was quite chilly at this hour and my car was frozen over so I had to do some thawing and scraping before I took off. Normally I would complain but I had my new handy, dandy glove scraper that Rosie and Grace gave me for Christmas so I was all good with it. I'm super cool. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWiwYZ_F6U5vn6MLJlQIrsyclwGkZt9SG5r_Tv5JdsH4MEWfzvhR4-pwnzJuT6qnKeNdnQLpSYY5zA8adlYebWR3_Ra7Ekk6_o20rNIGWguB6HxJqXJgH_yj88EV0gQAMxOyObbWE_AZq70y3_N16kT4lCzU6muG_AxVjvrTsYqZL1chLumzPrCkN-/s3088/IMG_9893.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3088" data-original-width="2316" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWiwYZ_F6U5vn6MLJlQIrsyclwGkZt9SG5r_Tv5JdsH4MEWfzvhR4-pwnzJuT6qnKeNdnQLpSYY5zA8adlYebWR3_Ra7Ekk6_o20rNIGWguB6HxJqXJgH_yj88EV0gQAMxOyObbWE_AZq70y3_N16kT4lCzU6muG_AxVjvrTsYqZL1chLumzPrCkN-/s320/IMG_9893.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Despite the cold it was a beautiful morning and once I hit the road and my coffee started to kick in I was feeling quite chipper. The drive was a piece of cake and I rolled into Cambridge right around 8:30. Parking was indeed a bit of a shit show and after doing several laps I ended up pulling into a garage which was less than ideal mainly because I wouldn't be able to bring most of my stuff with me and then drop it back at the car as I usually do. Whatever. I got up to the street and found the line to get my number which was very long. I waited. And waited. And waited some more. Literally, no movement. I was starting to get stressed as my teammates were heading out for their warmup and I could do nothing but continue to wait.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVxZP3RLf2ICyspWFbqeiWoHVsJIp2d0Vgg4rUKiMPh_eBmv2FZCpt4gMOkDWrcHa-Fe0fuEMx0J8Y3qVrLOzKqUHh95-HB4TUyOIXQQbIDBGnWflHU0nRihEgJV7fJfvNn6INi4wD903Sdn3WWsTAJMH5Vsrgc7p-d7nf5Ec3r04RKWq1H3nQFkTW/s640/IMG_9896.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVxZP3RLf2ICyspWFbqeiWoHVsJIp2d0Vgg4rUKiMPh_eBmv2FZCpt4gMOkDWrcHa-Fe0fuEMx0J8Y3qVrLOzKqUHh95-HB4TUyOIXQQbIDBGnWflHU0nRihEgJV7fJfvNn6INi4wD903Sdn3WWsTAJMH5Vsrgc7p-d7nf5Ec3r04RKWq1H3nQFkTW/s320/IMG_9896.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">See the woman looking around my shoulder. That was all of us. We could not believe how long it was taking and there was absolutely nothing any of us could do about it. Good times. Finally, I got my bib and swiftly moved out to get a couple miles in. The Whirlaway crew had already left but my friend and fellow Lex coach, Devon, was also racing and he, too, was in line so I told him I'd run close by so he could join me when he was ready. Well, that happened to be never because I'd finished 2 miles running back and forth on the same two blocks by the time he was finally good to go. The race is huge, over 6000 people. But still, what the hell with the bib allocation. There has got to be a better way.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu4QM73C1mGSDHVIzr2IgtbpOum3zkwkYIkNOzMf37KzV9g-IV_R1TxhtJwkpJ4N2CMX1vGMOId-_-3cSAsmOHhgBB3boKkIA1dcfn3g07MSD-ePQHQ5CweZ_uL6nttL08qu7Ghnvhvr2ZTpTMMvBZG-4MTKFaId-_nfr295guEbOOhp4n_FWcF5L4/s1286/IMG_9920.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="857" data-original-width="1286" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu4QM73C1mGSDHVIzr2IgtbpOum3zkwkYIkNOzMf37KzV9g-IV_R1TxhtJwkpJ4N2CMX1vGMOId-_-3cSAsmOHhgBB3boKkIA1dcfn3g07MSD-ePQHQ5CweZ_uL6nttL08qu7Ghnvhvr2ZTpTMMvBZG-4MTKFaId-_nfr295guEbOOhp4n_FWcF5L4/w400-h266/IMG_9920.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The temperature was pretty mild, in the mid-40s. But there was also a cold wind. I struggled to figure out what to race in and finally landed on my singlet and shorts. I'd brought a blanket from my car since I couldn't go back and forth as I knew I'd probably want the extra layer as I waited in the start chute. So, I just went ahead and wrapped it around my legs as I did my pre-race strides because I was cold and could have cared less how dumb it looked. Which turned out to be very dumb. Hopefully I made some people laugh at my expense. That's always a good thing. I made my way over to the line just before 10am, found my teammates and snuck in next to them. Lauren loves the 5k about as much as I do which you can see from her expression below. It was nice to finally be surrounded by my buddies after a solo warmup. It was also freezing and we were bouncing around like jumping beans ready to get the party started. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg87FlRXW7uDVQxBkW2Z_wCVMriZEL1S9BV8MkXTPGk_RGjAtaELR-TQLQZ20RNlNW0tydbnErUBHf-T0Y4Nu-jv_2jrfyWXMyLF74w4XQrv17-oyYXRdThIJNbk314DfiKZGZf6fVu09FIOO4h4CXh1QfdW6OaDMcN8QgwOl0QEy_yFObf0CJA8PVr/s640/IMG_9898.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg87FlRXW7uDVQxBkW2Z_wCVMriZEL1S9BV8MkXTPGk_RGjAtaELR-TQLQZ20RNlNW0tydbnErUBHf-T0Y4Nu-jv_2jrfyWXMyLF74w4XQrv17-oyYXRdThIJNbk314DfiKZGZf6fVu09FIOO4h4CXh1QfdW6OaDMcN8QgwOl0QEy_yFObf0CJA8PVr/s320/IMG_9898.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">THE RACE:</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I've been in a marathon buildup since November and didn't have much speed work under my belt prior to this race so I didn't quite know what to expect. I'd asked my coach, Ruben, whether he thought a 6:00 - 6:10 effort was realistic and he thought it was so that's the number I had in my head when we started. But, as always with a 5k, the thought process went immediately out the window after about 10 steps because, holy shit, people take off so fast and it becomes just a "hold on for dear life" situation almost immediately. What I've learned after a few of these is that looking at the watch isn't really helpful. It's 3.1 miles. You just run fast and then try to run faster. Every mile hurts. It's just a matter of leaning in and sending it. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSAclA4CaeYbXHFqQpyWD03_GF004iMS0IF4-QHCEv2oRiuLi5vHYSbZLh91s-SgKiNvFwVpmFIhXvaK89RrtZkF-gYB2viLWDhW182DuQ3WYkKq80T_3Ij2XJ3Bffm06PenqKciScH7FHwG_1V334F_iXsKmWkmdqRaw91uB4XuEpLqqR1sMkmX7M/s2048/IMG_9929.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSAclA4CaeYbXHFqQpyWD03_GF004iMS0IF4-QHCEv2oRiuLi5vHYSbZLh91s-SgKiNvFwVpmFIhXvaK89RrtZkF-gYB2viLWDhW182DuQ3WYkKq80T_3Ij2XJ3Bffm06PenqKciScH7FHwG_1V334F_iXsKmWkmdqRaw91uB4XuEpLqqR1sMkmX7M/s320/IMG_9929.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And that's basically what I did. With my eyes closed, of course. Which I have mastered. You know the whole running with your eyes closed thing? Yep. Really good at it. As my friend Steve says, race pics aren't really my thing and more often than not I look like I am dying or severely struggling. Which I guess is pretty much true to the situation. You gotta appreciate the fact that I keep it real, right? There's honestly not much else to say about this one. I did not check my splits. I don't even remember mile markers. I just ran my face off and hoped for the best. And I was pleasantly surprised to finish in 18:29, which was just a tad faster than Ruben and I had predicted. Always trust the Sensei.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFQjXSCD3B69svvMSV_LWhc9mstfJYwW8gxoi8eTuICs1VRiI01hVWFyb7antCe-gllCqIjzzJzxWLOKjdUdRw5Wjj1-EenbvISy4M21wpwBlSTI2cL2QTFxQ54isOQ0zWsc42vWCenJ6qUnWeSXGMNzY8LG93BwAjuk3Xo1tbxkesJuyQESGCz4pX/s640/IMG_9899.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFQjXSCD3B69svvMSV_LWhc9mstfJYwW8gxoi8eTuICs1VRiI01hVWFyb7antCe-gllCqIjzzJzxWLOKjdUdRw5Wjj1-EenbvISy4M21wpwBlSTI2cL2QTFxQ54isOQ0zWsc42vWCenJ6qUnWeSXGMNzY8LG93BwAjuk3Xo1tbxkesJuyQESGCz4pX/s320/IMG_9899.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Overall, I was very happy to run a time that was right around my personal best despite being a year older. Take that, Father Time! I was also very happy that it was over because it just hurt so much. As it always does. Again, happy birthday to me. After I finished I found Ruben (above) and then waited for Devon (below) who was doing the 5 mile race. I happen to be coaching Devon for Boston and this was part of his training. He absolutely killed it running just under 30 minutes which exceeded our expectations. We were both really freaking pumped.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpAOM2gWke2I5ujIUVyfKPlkPOGNPeR_0lMBJcFwrlxOj_CZWYXyfxZvmFKuOSIHoHMMdIYF9XtUuc-p3WvAahVLgTcaNVSlSP32SAYtPJXWvafmYLaEbxipvqTr4iVxSB2DcbLrQWHMhMnHYbAfGseGTwV7OUaFdyiMk4_K_JnyQSR-SEj7vKv8qx/s640/IMG_9900.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpAOM2gWke2I5ujIUVyfKPlkPOGNPeR_0lMBJcFwrlxOj_CZWYXyfxZvmFKuOSIHoHMMdIYF9XtUuc-p3WvAahVLgTcaNVSlSP32SAYtPJXWvafmYLaEbxipvqTr4iVxSB2DcbLrQWHMhMnHYbAfGseGTwV7OUaFdyiMk4_K_JnyQSR-SEj7vKv8qx/s320/IMG_9900.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We ran a couple more miles together and then did our cool down strides to flush the waste products in our legs, a critical piece of the puzzle for both of us. Then we bundled up and went to get coffee at Starbucks; my choice because my birthday coffee was free and it had to be redeemed on the actual day. And you know I was taking advantage of that offer. We sat and sipped for a while neither of us having anywhere urgent to go and me loving the fact that the race was over and my coffee was on the house.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK-geHW6rdIddRK5vfsPLvq8qdd7f1V7GFUni5tRFvYXJrX6ECLnJLeL8_dht4C63-cJMkQq86hlIa57QugsMVIPwBOyH22EXKLA3ZQw6POjQMdH60Nhg4LoXHxjIgdg8WNJhamOMcSgTH7I1wo3kySZj_R0XdJk3gQJCqi1J5aYoov6BG9dxeQ0D_/s640/IMG_9906.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK-geHW6rdIddRK5vfsPLvq8qdd7f1V7GFUni5tRFvYXJrX6ECLnJLeL8_dht4C63-cJMkQq86hlIa57QugsMVIPwBOyH22EXKLA3ZQw6POjQMdH60Nhg4LoXHxjIgdg8WNJhamOMcSgTH7I1wo3kySZj_R0XdJk3gQJCqi1J5aYoov6BG9dxeQ0D_/s320/IMG_9906.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">All in, it was a pretty good little day. I'd run hard. Spent time with friends. Done better than I'd hoped. Had fun. Kind of. And then enjoyed the fruits of my labor. And then after all of that, I got to head back home to spend the rest of my birthday with Jeff and the girls. Which I was very excited about; both to be with them and to eat cheeseburgers and ice cream with them. Real talk. I did complain about the distance. I can't help it. I probably always will. But I truly love the whole process. It brings me so much joy for so many reasons. Racing, that is. And coffee. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #800180;">Listen to this:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/6YjVrP2g7gJYh3aXkgnspC?si=ayXArc14SFmUvaX4eLm_Bg" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">Wait For It</span></b></a><span style="color: #800180;"> by Salute</span></div></div></div></div></div><p></p></div>
<iframe allow="autoplay" frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1426829551&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true" width="100%"></iframe><div style="color: #cccccc; font-family: Interstate, "Lucida Grande", "Lucida Sans Unicode", "Lucida Sans", Garuda, Verdana, Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-weight: 100; line-break: anywhere; overflow: hidden; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap; word-break: normal;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/saluteaut" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="salute">salute</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/saluteaut/wait-for-it" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="Wait For It">Wait For It</a></div>RUNNINGWITHMUSIChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08229272359508846579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086750970765027099.post-62890111474648525912023-01-19T04:00:00.011-08:002023-01-19T09:35:11.128-08:00THE PLACES WE....RUN<div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180;"><b>"You have brains in your head.</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180;"><b>You have feet in your shoes.</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180;"><b>You can steer yourself</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180;"><b>any direction you choose."</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Oh, The Places You'll Go!, Dr. Suess</span></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">As you may know, marathon training takes up a lot of time. And regardless of what kind of runner you are, if you're training for a marathon, you're likely going to make an effort to get your miles in. That said, you also have to live your life. And most of us are really freaking busy. Maybe you have a full-time job that requires travel. Maybe you're a parent with multiple kids and a pet. Maybe you're a student with two jobs. Maybe, like myself, you are some combination of all of these things - mom, two jobs, two dogs and elite sock finder. And I'm really good at the sock thing. I'm also currently training for my thirtieth marathon. And what I have learned over the years, sometimes the hard way, is that life, my non-running life that is, usually has to come first. Because marathon training is a choice. An "extra", if you will. For me, at least, it's family first, job second, a few other things third, fourth and fifth and then the training. And when I don't prioritize life, the critical day to day things very quickly start to fall through the cracks. That said, if I'm able get all the important regular life stuff done and I still have time for the training, regardless of where I am, who I'm with or what we happen to be doing, I'm going to try and make it work. Take last Monday, for example. Jeff and I were out in Utah with some friends for a ski weekend. This is our second year going and we're hoping to make it a tradition. So, in this case, friends and family first. Marathon training if possible. On our last day, we got up very early in order to shovel out our car which was buried due to the over two feet of snow we'd gotten over the past 24 hours. Well, Jeff and Chris shoveled. Full credit to them. Anyway, the roads to get out of our rental house and to the airport were wicked sketchy so we decided to just get up early and go to avoid any issues. We arrived at the SLC airport around 7:45am and our flight wasn't until 10:30. Now, normally I wouldn't have considered going for a run in an airport terminal. But, I had not been able to run the day before because the roads were legitimately closed for avalanche blasting. So, I was itching to move. I asked one of the Delta employees at the gate if they thought it would be okay if I went running in the terminal. He said, <i>"Sure. Why not? People run for their flights all day. And I power walk all the time. Just stay out of the way if you can and you should be fine." </i> Done and done. Off I went to the tunnel that connected Terminal A to terminal B, probably about a quarter mile long. I put on my tunes and started my run. I got lots of odd looks but more smiles and "good jobs" than I expected. I managed to get six miles in. And it was really fun. Seriously. Likely because it was something new and different and both I and the people around me were getting a good kick out of the scene. For the record, when I finished I washed my face in the ladies room, changed my shirt, grabbed an iced coffee and made sure I was in acceptable shape to sit next to my husband and a stranger for the next four hours. Because I'm crazy but I do respect other people's space. So, yea. This has to go down as the weirdest place I've ever trained. Would I do it again? No question. That said, I am now officially on the hunt for a crazier place to lace up. Stay tuned. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180;">TOP 5 WEIRDEST PLACES I'VE EVER RUN</span></h3><div><span style="color: #800180;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_kD1Lv3Eh-pZ_KX6fRxu5LYI0RLXfnl8AJY_cSzsAxVjRn2C2aqK7MZw1RwvVZZ1lgJdSE3NHLkbSrHV0GAhIB8LS3z-FmtHotM_z7LpeUgsrTJf3srLGPQkm84IsHVqg4nt7pWVJfE2E70folsoI9DUpg6SBpypWLAT3xHlFxmYRyAt2UwsMkmKQ/s3088/IMG_9530.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3088" data-original-width="2316" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_kD1Lv3Eh-pZ_KX6fRxu5LYI0RLXfnl8AJY_cSzsAxVjRn2C2aqK7MZw1RwvVZZ1lgJdSE3NHLkbSrHV0GAhIB8LS3z-FmtHotM_z7LpeUgsrTJf3srLGPQkm84IsHVqg4nt7pWVJfE2E70folsoI9DUpg6SBpypWLAT3xHlFxmYRyAt2UwsMkmKQ/s320/IMG_9530.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1. Salt Lake City Airport. You already know this story. By far the best, though.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxdudl11DuuL5oy_wmlASnVEPJLSxyd3Ty3BJnCrYFTU6kj8_pH49LUC1-q6MM2KpqG0t40xvrZvk9IFJ7LPyaL8O4d3JAN41hgELS8OFwMapGmfOWKmp_r1CaZYV2dEfLmc0MjN9kBZe5hTnuAFtu3MATuhC6WOy-LJ8pnfG_1Q73EZhQYZTvqKIm/s640/0.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="517" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxdudl11DuuL5oy_wmlASnVEPJLSxyd3Ty3BJnCrYFTU6kj8_pH49LUC1-q6MM2KpqG0t40xvrZvk9IFJ7LPyaL8O4d3JAN41hgELS8OFwMapGmfOWKmp_r1CaZYV2dEfLmc0MjN9kBZe5hTnuAFtu3MATuhC6WOy-LJ8pnfG_1Q73EZhQYZTvqKIm/s320/0.jpg" width="259" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2. At the top of a hotel in South Africa. Our family had been in Botswana and Zambia for Christmas. I hadn't run for 2 weeks for obvious reasons. Mainly lions. This was our last night. I felt like garbage. But I loved every minute of it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZCA_UYQaIoJ_PT-QVXBdr5g4vPsglnkNngFMjdyDTomSXPZfvLVral2HtiNT36QGGHhPp-2LtV19KqrWQ35Gcp9-4TLHJ9oSZlYWCgP7vzKB2eo4SGlSKVIBjUMI1oDi6yWAFICdSgWq21UXZqMYKUOXRLMH4a4qzhL_nnGiw7foWKsy-CoW6SQ6m/s640/0-1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="517" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZCA_UYQaIoJ_PT-QVXBdr5g4vPsglnkNngFMjdyDTomSXPZfvLVral2HtiNT36QGGHhPp-2LtV19KqrWQ35Gcp9-4TLHJ9oSZlYWCgP7vzKB2eo4SGlSKVIBjUMI1oDi6yWAFICdSgWq21UXZqMYKUOXRLMH4a4qzhL_nnGiw7foWKsy-CoW6SQ6m/s320/0-1.jpg" width="259" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">3. In my basement during Covid. Meg McDonald of the <a href="https://www.instagram.com/amityislandrunningclub/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>Amity Island Running Club</b></span></a> based on Martha's Vineyard threw out the indoor mile challenge and I jumped right on it. I did lots of dumb things during Covid. This was definitely one of them. I regret none of them. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgopQS1i5psMAtRpTCqswT-tqmeVF-sCTMa_qJ1oVh30VDjR7I_f7WUes6uTzaLl3EgkAXkexBUYi6UfpWAL2jCDjM8IuIanHKTUh8lgHuvnEVaXPBlVNcosAWqdAfOJ0tUwnxXqa6K851rLOs5WTVtIYf4NiVocZ-2iV00Nlar5iQ_ZX8lr-iOc-9u/s427/0-2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="316" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgopQS1i5psMAtRpTCqswT-tqmeVF-sCTMa_qJ1oVh30VDjR7I_f7WUes6uTzaLl3EgkAXkexBUYi6UfpWAL2jCDjM8IuIanHKTUh8lgHuvnEVaXPBlVNcosAWqdAfOJ0tUwnxXqa6K851rLOs5WTVtIYf4NiVocZ-2iV00Nlar5iQ_ZX8lr-iOc-9u/s320/0-2.jpg" width="237" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">4. The driveway of our AirBnB in Eden, Utah. That's right. We were on the same ski trip a year ago and we stayed on the mountain. Literally. The only road available was along the mountain itself which really wasn't an option. So, I ended do many, many laps in our driveway which was about .2 miles long. Good times. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtBFAUZv81zzoopsiKLZNetom0IK1pMG4d0ULFiHrBBoHflC9zdQB9NivB8qZsJCnRPCisubhdt3o8GrJMcQD2FG14ncAIZ9NoxNqRf00ys0bkyv5zpPsM1xp8sP5XXtob-I19SgAe6EdXYJnDxD7rdzr4pkNqndKOzWygBEoPOOCSzaiqGWb_WzeX/s1361/View%20recent%20photos.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1361" data-original-width="885" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtBFAUZv81zzoopsiKLZNetom0IK1pMG4d0ULFiHrBBoHflC9zdQB9NivB8qZsJCnRPCisubhdt3o8GrJMcQD2FG14ncAIZ9NoxNqRf00ys0bkyv5zpPsM1xp8sP5XXtob-I19SgAe6EdXYJnDxD7rdzr4pkNqndKOzWygBEoPOOCSzaiqGWb_WzeX/s320/View%20recent%20photos.jpeg" width="208" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">5. And last, but as I said, definitely not least, Lot 2 in the town of Alta this past weekend. Twice. Lifts didn't start running until 9:15 and it really didn't get light out until about 8:30 so I had ample time to run circles in the dark. I was out there with Alta security who was checking cars to make sure people hadn't camped overnight, which I guess happens often. I was more than pleased to have someone out there with me. Both runs were lovely.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Listen to this:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/0c6XBVz2evmzERhch4Diew?si=SOuHqz43St2WnTQcuGGDkw" target="_blank"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Oh My </span></a>-</b> Luude (feat. Moby & Issey Cross)</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>
<iframe allow="autoplay" frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1403381635&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true" width="100%"></iframe><div style="color: #cccccc; font-family: Interstate, "Lucida Grande", "Lucida Sans Unicode", "Lucida Sans", Garuda, Verdana, Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-weight: 100; line-break: anywhere; overflow: hidden; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap; word-break: normal;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/luudeofficial" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="LUUDE">LUUDE</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/luudeofficial/oh-my-feat-moby" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="Oh My (feat. Moby)">Oh My (feat. Moby)</a></div>RUNNINGWITHMUSIChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08229272359508846579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086750970765027099.post-58071637396667097052022-12-16T10:46:00.003-08:002022-12-16T10:49:22.432-08:002022 A YEAR IN REVIEW<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180;"><b> "The magic in new beginnings is truly the most powerful of them all."<br /></b></span><span style="color: #b45f06;">~ Josiyah Martin</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJlOUQpxNZip-iMIL5y3AWjK97Y8DT2GFZZLS0bw2pcjJCOkBXBGoWDTGofn24L6lyl1Tl1Yx9W2E2o0osDmTptNEHrvQFCagF0zrEsHDik-WTYT7-1vPK1nEu753CUUin-Ovqyph9JNZ3ti6RBeLvOYKfeqen9xts4b5B64KPlvKeBNxbvIMb4TOa/s288/images.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="175" data-original-width="288" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJlOUQpxNZip-iMIL5y3AWjK97Y8DT2GFZZLS0bw2pcjJCOkBXBGoWDTGofn24L6lyl1Tl1Yx9W2E2o0osDmTptNEHrvQFCagF0zrEsHDik-WTYT7-1vPK1nEu753CUUin-Ovqyph9JNZ3ti6RBeLvOYKfeqen9xts4b5B64KPlvKeBNxbvIMb4TOa/s1600/images.jpg" width="288" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Dear RWM Readers,</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Just a quick note to say thank you to everyone who followed along on my journey again this year. With Covid somewhat behind us, life got back to normal in many ways or perhaps we got into our groove of whatever the new normal is and found a rhythm there as well. Not gonna lie, it was a heck of a year. Rosie and Grace entered Senior and Sophomore year in high school which, as you can imagine, completely blows my mind. We started and have officially ended the college process with Rosie who is now waiting to hear back from all of the schools she applied to. That was a hell of a challenge for both of us, but mostly for her. And she handled it beautifully. Grace ran cross country this fall and successfully knocked two minutes off of her 5K time by the end of her season. If you ask her today, she'll tell you she still hates running and does it purely for the social. I know, however, there is a small part of her that enjoys the challenge even if it's not while she's running but when she's done and reflects on her effort and what she has accomplished. Stay tuned on this one. I think the passion is rising, albeit slowly, and I will obviously be reporting back. That said, I will say nothing at all that puts pressure on Grace or to indicate how thrilled I am that she is running because that would be very not cool of me and I need really to be the chill mom on this one. The Lex ladies absolutely slayed as usual both in track & field this past spring and in XC this fall and are continuing to build on that now as winter track begins. Not a day goes by that I don't realize how lucky I am to be a coach for this incredible group of humans. And, last but not least, I was able to squeeze 11 races in this year. Two marathons, two halves, two 10ks, a 5k and a sprinkling of other random distances. I had an absolute blast in both my training and my racing as I really just embraced each moment for what it was and gave everything I had for that particular day with the main goal across the board being to have fun and not take competing too seriously. I ran personal bests in everything from the 5k to the marathon at the spritely age of 47 so I must have done something right. I'm super grateful to my coach and teammates who have supported me along the way as I know I wouldn't have gotten to this next level on my own. And, of course, to my family who never questions my crazy and always has my back. I hope all of you had some experiences this year that brought you joy and perhaps changed you for the better. Best wishes as you embark on this next year. May we all have another wild, crazy and wonderful ride. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">All the best,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHFianA7uFSVuuSlaPUi7C1YacRHAnrxunLgdoUyM8lepdChO7rK_dO_qQPak8lzARl7U-Ph2kg9age8aoLrJQG7ys83ok-Xmhfc2VZ1RwVc6bbsDdycLCeUh4iv05G72kjApA4jrdimFqFODHCCWIOEILd6YUEPWl_KVlMnjBRKAYqoKv3pzPC6QK/s200/unnamed-2%20(2).jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="94" data-original-width="200" height="94" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHFianA7uFSVuuSlaPUi7C1YacRHAnrxunLgdoUyM8lepdChO7rK_dO_qQPak8lzARl7U-Ph2kg9age8aoLrJQG7ys83ok-Xmhfc2VZ1RwVc6bbsDdycLCeUh4iv05G72kjApA4jrdimFqFODHCCWIOEILd6YUEPWl_KVlMnjBRKAYqoKv3pzPC6QK/s1600/unnamed-2%20(2).jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">RUNNING WITH MUSIC </span><span style="color: #800180;">2022</span></span></span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #800180;"><br /></span></span></span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #800180;">JANUARY</span></span></span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii28AGeScVAE8Ci0VDcbYvwib1-BoERewDIAaXTV-2bJZpVckBAutxl9l2qXux-5OW_3O-KEur8lYXYvdVJaskBwP8nhf1YdieMhM_OxZ_18UZqhiYtOzDjUw3QvEOjt_Apqq_udiJp-LQk-tpd0epCmXXIaqPCwy7uu5EpBr2VHNgBK33mm6j5Yjt/s320/64E3FD75-9A71-4FE9-A624-7F4436151E7B.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="320" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii28AGeScVAE8Ci0VDcbYvwib1-BoERewDIAaXTV-2bJZpVckBAutxl9l2qXux-5OW_3O-KEur8lYXYvdVJaskBwP8nhf1YdieMhM_OxZ_18UZqhiYtOzDjUw3QvEOjt_Apqq_udiJp-LQk-tpd0epCmXXIaqPCwy7uu5EpBr2VHNgBK33mm6j5Yjt/s1600/64E3FD75-9A71-4FE9-A624-7F4436151E7B.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Ran the Super Sunday 4 Miler. By far the coldest I've ever been while racing.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">JANUARY ALBUM:</span><span style="color: #800180;">OMG I MADE IT - PRONOUN</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">JANUARY SONG:</span><span style="color: #800180;">STEPPED ON A BEE - MISTERWIVES</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #800180;"><b>FEBRUARY</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWreEcUecp4Ap-XLqncu0YNi1ouIw2hFRw3SpjDgk24CYXA_kiA9d5_eAOTj_TV_g6tPGjrFvIRN0XbxpEwBxPBjqxDgAI86psxNLA7rk62lJEhNe0VYU3S2GS3pyx5v2wRvqfQL6xfobxqp6PMiWFGgrDO-AjXGPUSnVTrTEFkvuWPxvP0tAo9wR3/s1463/Screenshot%202022-12-16%20at%207.07.17%20AM.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1463" data-original-width="1170" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWreEcUecp4Ap-XLqncu0YNi1ouIw2hFRw3SpjDgk24CYXA_kiA9d5_eAOTj_TV_g6tPGjrFvIRN0XbxpEwBxPBjqxDgAI86psxNLA7rk62lJEhNe0VYU3S2GS3pyx5v2wRvqfQL6xfobxqp6PMiWFGgrDO-AjXGPUSnVTrTEFkvuWPxvP0tAo9wR3/s320/Screenshot%202022-12-16%20at%207.07.17%20AM.jpeg" width="256" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Grace turned 15 and remained sassy</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">FEBRUARY ALBUM:</span><span style="color: #800180;">DEADPAN LOVE - CAUTIOUS CLAY</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">FEBRUARY SONG:</span><span style="color: #800180;">SURVIVE VHS COLLECTION</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #800180;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #800180;"><b>MARCH</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcNc4dk65UCbO0uq76FTQvjDpktlkwvq_lbRV4ZHGUKNL6Du-6rEPasjrYknojr2pq6abl8tMqK2WeH_dshbJgsAe-lZl--bR-TnU_O7a6bB01SImDrMWing_C1RtHTIjWi_XZPA5KtN0o_jX1FkT7qYJK9meSEOq2QJWcgaygVq6KooXDCljJAHAP/s640/0-1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="639" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcNc4dk65UCbO0uq76FTQvjDpktlkwvq_lbRV4ZHGUKNL6Du-6rEPasjrYknojr2pq6abl8tMqK2WeH_dshbJgsAe-lZl--bR-TnU_O7a6bB01SImDrMWing_C1RtHTIjWi_XZPA5KtN0o_jX1FkT7qYJK9meSEOq2QJWcgaygVq6KooXDCljJAHAP/s320/0-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">New Bedford 13.1 & new half PR & yes I look like I am going to puke.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">MARCH ALBUM:</span><span style="color: #800180;">LP3 - HIPPO CAMPUS</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">MARCH SONG:</span><span style="color: #800180;">NEXT TO ME - JIM-E STACK</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #800180;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #800180;"><b>APRIL</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU928Ad4rdaBhjocBHGrTcwxAHwdRyn_Ok3GLHtHcXSzy-Cp7CZOdeVVdwzitHc9imYfK2vhrsIaOaCU5pf20sj3Pd5xDLk9V33CNvCj1GHEBF2frWh0ayxh25yDzZVnp8in6Vlqq4ihbVA3pSyeZzdv1FIMSWfkdfes-ImvAlVQkkr8_9DVtxZetX/s640/0-2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="497" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU928Ad4rdaBhjocBHGrTcwxAHwdRyn_Ok3GLHtHcXSzy-Cp7CZOdeVVdwzitHc9imYfK2vhrsIaOaCU5pf20sj3Pd5xDLk9V33CNvCj1GHEBF2frWh0ayxh25yDzZVnp8in6Vlqq4ihbVA3pSyeZzdv1FIMSWfkdfes-ImvAlVQkkr8_9DVtxZetX/s320/0-2.jpg" width="249" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Cheap Marathon & new marathon PR which I owe to a stranger with licorice.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">APRIL ALBUM:</span><span style="color: #800180;">PAINLESS - NILUFER YANYA</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">APRIL SONG:</span><span style="color: #800180;">TIEBREAKER - THE HEAD AND THE HEART</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #800180;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #800180;"><b>MAY</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaev-bxwo79YJ9-Or1nlMXX5bAuPl6F9MlmP5kx4_x1MbzQwbVnAyXX5s3HFkd3HKphcIXyvJQ3fr6ndSwpIw-UoAutmvnTET4ucSaaIHJh7RBMwjGQs0YKkwHMdCRWGbFa6cqocy3UrVXFIrFrte_kluZN1YObsBMh85y0uFriBfw4fjmHyo3Tof-/s640/0-3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="518" data-original-width="640" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaev-bxwo79YJ9-Or1nlMXX5bAuPl6F9MlmP5kx4_x1MbzQwbVnAyXX5s3HFkd3HKphcIXyvJQ3fr6ndSwpIw-UoAutmvnTET4ucSaaIHJh7RBMwjGQs0YKkwHMdCRWGbFa6cqocy3UrVXFIrFrte_kluZN1YObsBMh85y0uFriBfw4fjmHyo3Tof-/s320/0-3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">LEXINGTON HIGH SCHOOL Middlesex League Champs</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">MAY ALBUM:</span><span style="color: #800180;">GIVING THE WORLD AWAY - HATCHIE</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">MAY SONG:</span><span style="color: #800180;">BIGGER LOVE - MILKE & BONE</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #800180;"><b>JULY</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEbaaBJlURfHLNdiPBXoQqeVAX2aCJcCxPZc22hphBmChCThOlK-LBtzC84eQDjb6X2xqiip1aByOFKNQO-YuyzLWwWCIdmLT7k7gwag5GjxzRavG6QrevQKYoOM_1s0LH4qbQNmzGIK73WKv9WjMtgLlHukAbs8ruvF0AN9gABcu8g30NRtD2iNVu/s640/0-5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="595" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEbaaBJlURfHLNdiPBXoQqeVAX2aCJcCxPZc22hphBmChCThOlK-LBtzC84eQDjb6X2xqiip1aByOFKNQO-YuyzLWwWCIdmLT7k7gwag5GjxzRavG6QrevQKYoOM_1s0LH4qbQNmzGIK73WKv9WjMtgLlHukAbs8ruvF0AN9gABcu8g30NRtD2iNVu/s320/0-5.jpg" width="298" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">BAA10K & new 10K PR & came very close to puking</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">JUNE ALBUM:</span><span style="color: #800180;">INSIDE OUT - TOURIST</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">JUNE SONG:</span><span style="color: #800180;">TURNED UP - MIKE POSNER</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #800180;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #800180;"><b>JULY</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHqbnktc1z1Dclpc_mvaRoJrUZJeSBiH9KjBIsJXETcOngId_CvCGDS29LEKjiVCpyMXLRrct52ZrYPgJa2G1I6lPCrIZFx07oM6cDprYugbyi4MUYToxjH0EECZNas9KzB4FamkQzA0jMidqRyCxJkixotJjC7Av86vCblskmBBYtUPtAHrL2jF_8/s640/0.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="531" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHqbnktc1z1Dclpc_mvaRoJrUZJeSBiH9KjBIsJXETcOngId_CvCGDS29LEKjiVCpyMXLRrct52ZrYPgJa2G1I6lPCrIZFx07oM6cDprYugbyi4MUYToxjH0EECZNas9KzB4FamkQzA0jMidqRyCxJkixotJjC7Av86vCblskmBBYtUPtAHrL2jF_8/s320/0.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Cape Cod & hottest summer on record which was super fun for marathon training</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">JULY ALBUM:</span><span style="color: #800180;">SHAPE & FORM - TWO FEET</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">JULY SONG:</span><span style="color: #800180;">THUNDER - JAGUAR SUN</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #800180;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #800180;"><b>AUGUST</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMTa8B5dMtKQDCYoluum0J_jXmKLUCTXJ4gcLvMhbkSKG6t7zyS_zIa4u-WjzDKOjxfY_0t04vB6YeOv2rA3K1fLSp_eQnFsXzFhdvwtFsZi5wwpKoOwjM5c5gl7Mlb-o57RdtbQIH5pNHqKR5gIcKQNU5ETNAcDdJYXvdqF7wker_5JQ1nCTbFvXd/s640/0-1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="552" data-original-width="640" height="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMTa8B5dMtKQDCYoluum0J_jXmKLUCTXJ4gcLvMhbkSKG6t7zyS_zIa4u-WjzDKOjxfY_0t04vB6YeOv2rA3K1fLSp_eQnFsXzFhdvwtFsZi5wwpKoOwjM5c5gl7Mlb-o57RdtbQIH5pNHqKR5gIcKQNU5ETNAcDdJYXvdqF7wker_5JQ1nCTbFvXd/s320/0-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Falmouth Road Race & no PR but, again, very close to puking</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">AUGUST ALBUM:</span><span style="color: #800180;">ALL WE'VE EVER KNOWN - JAGUAR SUN</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">AUGUST SONG:</span><span style="color: #800180;">EVERY NIGHT - FLOR</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #800180;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #800180;"><b>SEPTEMBER</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4O-YKN0aNh82c1YLk4BkhB4L9uI6lHjoh96hcUoPW_p4zHRAieDgXvWhqQNe1QsjxuYlpv4nw2-jLUpcT8Y-92xULTqBJqHTipC5_YwZ1WxJxbUk30HtOnyMKgdldM-saGZjqHjvlAJZqeydqc-Re3M1PslyGvOPpVv_7GfTL7-MDkERoBOuowGcC/s640/0-2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="620" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4O-YKN0aNh82c1YLk4BkhB4L9uI6lHjoh96hcUoPW_p4zHRAieDgXvWhqQNe1QsjxuYlpv4nw2-jLUpcT8Y-92xULTqBJqHTipC5_YwZ1WxJxbUk30HtOnyMKgdldM-saGZjqHjvlAJZqeydqc-Re3M1PslyGvOPpVv_7GfTL7-MDkERoBOuowGcC/s320/0-2.jpg" width="310" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">First day of school #sniff</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">SEPTEMBER ALBUM:</span><span style="color: #800180;">FORMENTERA - METRIC</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">SEPTMEBER SONG:</span><span style="color: #800180;">LIFT OFF - LABRINTH</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #800180;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #800180;"><b>OCTOBER</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-6hQSDvSF24FIPiTM1xT9Wt2J37AP4ApAFQ0ihML_s0hcvpOs4ELXD-1EYdMwOJcR2gsCHuqWI6d__RrArX7HQ-QeiimYDIUxzTLEduZ5fu3KtYvLXQk1wk-a1Gya-DbRbx88E6S3mzm3yrtq-V0BC2zJssKWdlBhP9qvQkY9h6_PE0rLfd4UeO7T/s640/0-3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="516" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-6hQSDvSF24FIPiTM1xT9Wt2J37AP4ApAFQ0ihML_s0hcvpOs4ELXD-1EYdMwOJcR2gsCHuqWI6d__RrArX7HQ-QeiimYDIUxzTLEduZ5fu3KtYvLXQk1wk-a1Gya-DbRbx88E6S3mzm3yrtq-V0BC2zJssKWdlBhP9qvQkY9h6_PE0rLfd4UeO7T/s320/0-3.jpg" width="258" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Chicago Marathon w/ my girl CB</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">OCTOBER ALBUM:</span><span style="color: #800180;">COOL IT DOWN - YEAH YEAH YEAHS</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">OCTOBER SONG:</span><span style="color: #800180;">BEEP - M.I.A.</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #800180;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #800180;"><b>NOVEMBER</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ_p7y-yxuGep8e3B6u7lW1xEaWQhA6rlsirABaHtfLLN-HxiyYkoj5jMnC64Sh0_gpN5KjfjZg4zWjnQu8P2WM9QnjuZT5WXRfp2P-HqJ4HkQ2h5FrQBasttbUm0RqiDKp101rMDxNyCuT8OYPlTyRCVhYmdJfwVk4tuFlJDmXq2RWZs1fr88hxze/s640/0-5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="638" data-original-width="640" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ_p7y-yxuGep8e3B6u7lW1xEaWQhA6rlsirABaHtfLLN-HxiyYkoj5jMnC64Sh0_gpN5KjfjZg4zWjnQu8P2WM9QnjuZT5WXRfp2P-HqJ4HkQ2h5FrQBasttbUm0RqiDKp101rMDxNyCuT8OYPlTyRCVhYmdJfwVk4tuFlJDmXq2RWZs1fr88hxze/s320/0-5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Rosie turns 18 and the girls agree to take a photo with me</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">NOVEMBER:</span><span style="color: #800180;">CRYBABY - TEGAN & SARA</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">NOVEMBER SONG:</span><span style="color: #800180;">WATCH HER GO - BIEN</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b><span style="color: #800180;"><br /></span></b></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #800180;"><b>DECEMBER</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhasmyo52YcNxKFcnE8JhpWkehvxFFJN50PmIOKtHISBC31xtn2mgahDzUJIVq94l9tbj_GsYeBA2RuDg-D8r0GgDM1IfQXg0oS7R8KuK3_pRBDv3ftUUUGMchL4EIOmVcMT_YZixwcrxBJUl0u58VY2_tOmcfsaRTUlOR-drLcLS14vE1KgkdW_i5U/s640/0-6.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="632" data-original-width="640" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhasmyo52YcNxKFcnE8JhpWkehvxFFJN50PmIOKtHISBC31xtn2mgahDzUJIVq94l9tbj_GsYeBA2RuDg-D8r0GgDM1IfQXg0oS7R8KuK3_pRBDv3ftUUUGMchL4EIOmVcMT_YZixwcrxBJUl0u58VY2_tOmcfsaRTUlOR-drLcLS14vE1KgkdW_i5U/s320/0-6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">MILL CITIES RELAY - TEAM CHAMP & last race of the 2022</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">JANUARY ALBUM:</span><span style="color: #800180;">NO RULES SANDY - SYLVAN ESSO</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">JANUARY SONG:</span><span style="color: #800180;">GRATEFUL - MARTIN LUKE BROWN</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #800180;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #800180;"><b>Listen to these:</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">RWM SONGS OF THE MONTH </span><span style="color: #800180;">2022</span></b></span></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><p></p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="encrypted-media" allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/playlist/2lu44v8ol6w7Sjc91KQQys" width="300"></iframe></div>RUNNINGWITHMUSIChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08229272359508846579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086750970765027099.post-72500662425632747402022-12-05T03:54:00.001-08:002022-12-05T04:58:23.008-08:002022 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE & WINTER GIVEAWAY<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #990000;"><b>"It's not how much we give, but how much we put into giving."</b></span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;">~ Mother Teresa</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijZo1J_xmLQZh0BkS51Lyj-6AmC1XLfjWaL88u-YwSpq-6c96h9NNhIMKBQt0o9cHRmzUP88V84wpbM27vR-rOG28aJVutIspHukqnn7j9aHxvjuIT0rl2e8pE2lGGHFayP1bHvfyLzXbRA9VGIClkbT3bCGoREy58smYJVrTyGDjV1M4EYHfs7mHg/s250/110873038.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="243" data-original-width="250" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijZo1J_xmLQZh0BkS51Lyj-6AmC1XLfjWaL88u-YwSpq-6c96h9NNhIMKBQt0o9cHRmzUP88V84wpbM27vR-rOG28aJVutIspHukqnn7j9aHxvjuIT0rl2e8pE2lGGHFayP1bHvfyLzXbRA9VGIClkbT3bCGoREy58smYJVrTyGDjV1M4EYHfs7mHg/s1600/110873038.jpg" width="250" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>If you've been following this blog for a while you probably know that the holiday season is far and away my favorite time of year. I love everything about it. The lights, the festivities and most importantly the giving of gifts. I get ridiculously excited to dig deep and find goodies for my family and friends that I think they'll like. I also have a really, <i>really</i> hard time keeping them a secret. It's something I've always struggled with since I was little. My sister could always get me to crack and tell her what I got her no matter how hard I tried to keep it to myself. But, I've gotten better. A little. Not really. Just don't ask me, ok? This year I am somewhat on the ball and have my annual <b><span style="color: #990000;">RWM Gift Guide </span></b>ready to share with you on the early side for a change. So, as you're making your lists of things to give or that you might like to receive, which in my humble opinion is both acceptable and encouraged, perhaps these suggestions will help spark some ideas. As always, I've tried to include a bunch of different treats that I think the runner, music lover, brother, aunt, sister's best friend's cousin....basically almost all of you will like. I personally own, use and enjoy each item myself so I can pretty much guarantee that you or your recipient will be thrilled with any of these. I've also put together another awesome <b><span style="color: #990000;">WINTER GIVEAWAY</span></b> that includes products from some of my favorite companies. See all the details below and head over to <a href="https://www.instagram.com/runningwmusic/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #38761d;"><b>RWM on Instagram</b></span></a> to enter if you'd like. Happy shopping. And Merry Everything!</p><p><br /></p><h2 style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 22px; margin: 0px; position: relative; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">********* RWM</span><span style="color: #38761d;"> HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE *********</span></span></h2><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjer9kF3Esa6koZy2svQvqz26b3IIpoIxbdGneBDYTD526WjsnNExo_HxX_O5bPhEfQXoddW6LgJrEF1BzV5xvAkNdixQPyUbRXB7z-1htvpobtTWP9ouCFj89ha9KeHqavyZ1c9CEEG5tH7qt7TL6WfGYXIkFytVOg6Bjg-mXNgl2KoaXiTpui2zta/s350/Screen%20Shot%202022-11-29%20at%2012.30.18%20PM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="350" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjer9kF3Esa6koZy2svQvqz26b3IIpoIxbdGneBDYTD526WjsnNExo_HxX_O5bPhEfQXoddW6LgJrEF1BzV5xvAkNdixQPyUbRXB7z-1htvpobtTWP9ouCFj89ha9KeHqavyZ1c9CEEG5tH7qt7TL6WfGYXIkFytVOg6Bjg-mXNgl2KoaXiTpui2zta/s320/Screen%20Shot%202022-11-29%20at%2012.30.18%20PM.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.ororowear.com/?sscid=c1k6_23pk4" target="_blank"><span style="color: #990000;"><b>ORORO</b></span></a> <span style="color: #990000;">Quilted Heated Vest</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Retail price:$189.99*</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #990000;">*Use code <b>rtrax20</b> to save %20</span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Ok, so yes, an <b>Ororo</b> heated vest was on the list last year. But this one is a little bit different. It's quilted as opposed to puffy so it's softer and more fitted. It also comes with a smaller battery that lasts longer and a charger that charges quicker. So, it's basically last year's version but better. I can't put into words how big of a game changer this is for all outdoor activities during winter. It is a staple in my wardrobe and I never leave home without it. The quilted vest comes in multiple colors and sizes and there is both a men's and women's fit. Make sure to click on the above link & use code rtrax20 to save on 20% on your order.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhycU2QPXfP04-3ZIg9EuU76lloqouRifmpj14IEVBI82DTnRGoMewn9-3rXIxLNcN0ewnjTvUFloLIeqpbtHU5HJroZDpLyHNtt-OlypNhqHvmLODckYRtl3oMjbo8jSrz4AP2JmGvb7VUn2TyaDBhNGHgdQvj3U9CRLTw1RZYe82qPu8oGjHSRNVn/s472/Screen%20Shot%202022-11-29%20at%2012.33.05%20PM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="321" data-original-width="472" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhycU2QPXfP04-3ZIg9EuU76lloqouRifmpj14IEVBI82DTnRGoMewn9-3rXIxLNcN0ewnjTvUFloLIeqpbtHU5HJroZDpLyHNtt-OlypNhqHvmLODckYRtl3oMjbo8jSrz4AP2JmGvb7VUn2TyaDBhNGHgdQvj3U9CRLTw1RZYe82qPu8oGjHSRNVn/w400-h272/Screen%20Shot%202022-11-29%20at%2012.33.05%20PM.png" width="400" /></a></div><span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.therunnerbox.com/product/holidaybox/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #990000;"><b>RUNNERBOX</b></span></a> <span style="color: #990000;">2022 Limited Edition Holiday Box</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Retail price: $40</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Runnerbox</b> is best known for their subscription service in which one receives a monthly box that is chock full of products and accessories specifically geared toward runners. The subscription in and of itself would be an awesome gift for the running enthusiast in your life who loves high quality gear. They also offer several individual gift boxes and the <b>2022 Limited Edition Holiday Box</b> is at the top of my list this year. It comes with all the goodies you see above; basically all the stuff you want and nothing that you don't. Click <a href="https://www.therunnerbox.com/our-holiday-partners/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #990000;">here</span></a> for a full list and details on all of the specific items in the holiday box.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRxOhnT5QfyDVWPH6jboEz_9afALOl4NCcxSGG1xKaiA6G-jVYXM5VEeg1hZWfgr8qMCCIGZctl72-tDBmlcE4l4k7aY0XqAB7vcq68tl5dOKgUtmRCKr1Hd3RURFUJrVAcJBKufNa9WRo-hhuRWzG_qTyxmup1QWd1CO2kQkuaY8oRrfT9UFtFVzB/s441/athletic-brewing.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="244" data-original-width="441" height="177" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRxOhnT5QfyDVWPH6jboEz_9afALOl4NCcxSGG1xKaiA6G-jVYXM5VEeg1hZWfgr8qMCCIGZctl72-tDBmlcE4l4k7aY0XqAB7vcq68tl5dOKgUtmRCKr1Hd3RURFUJrVAcJBKufNa9WRo-hhuRWzG_qTyxmup1QWd1CO2kQkuaY8oRrfT9UFtFVzB/w320-h177/athletic-brewing.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://bit.ly/2KR3xi6" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: #990000;">ATHLETIC BREWING</span></b></a> <span style="color: #990000;">Non-Alcoholic Beer</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Retail Price:$14.99 for most six packs</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #990000;">*Use code <b>RTRACHSEL20</b> to save 20% on your first order</span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">If you love beer but you don't love messing with your sleep then your problems are solved. Thanks to <b>Athletic Brewing Co</b>. you can drink good beer and then sleep like a baby. These guys make insanely delicious, non-alcoholic beer that tastes as good, if not better, than most beers out there. These are a daily treat for me when I'm marathon training and I want to have a beer with dinner but I don't want to compromise my health and recovery. This is the perfect gift for the beer drinker, athlete or for anyone who enjoys treating themselves to a high quality beer. Make sure to use code RTRACHSEL20 to save 20% on your first order</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9ZDewFEsZOaWzDxyzkJKsiJsdYjC9iLfC75GfjGub1_AHCwDNbflDs36cgoLpBQqa_f74izsUzhv9XK9YFlVwr7Cuw6OrBxUrcjbuLsbUvgAYfdP3C3AL9Th2wPugLGuHMjth-o2gAjbgX_Im_zG4n_T50olnt5_exXVzcCqnZlaHFttzrJvCJOy3/s469/Screen%20Shot%202022-11-29%20at%2012.41.55%20PM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="313" data-original-width="469" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9ZDewFEsZOaWzDxyzkJKsiJsdYjC9iLfC75GfjGub1_AHCwDNbflDs36cgoLpBQqa_f74izsUzhv9XK9YFlVwr7Cuw6OrBxUrcjbuLsbUvgAYfdP3C3AL9Th2wPugLGuHMjth-o2gAjbgX_Im_zG4n_T50olnt5_exXVzcCqnZlaHFttzrJvCJOy3/s320/Screen%20Shot%202022-11-29%20at%2012.41.55%20PM.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://landgrovecoffee.com/" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: #990000;">LANDGROVE COFFEE</span></b></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Retail Price:$16/pound</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Coffee. Because coffee. And <b>Landgrove Coffee</b> has been and will always be on my list because in my humble opinion it is far and away the best. It's also fairly traded, sustainably grown and purchased direct from the grower. Basically, you know what you are getting and can trust that grower and his/her employees are receiving the benefit of all sales. And the flavor of their beans is incomparable. Who doesn't love coffee and won't want this as a gift? I can't think of one.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggBGq57Jdyjey9bnSy1hiN03H3M8w62-CUckrRU56psmvEXuoFYvcGznaWl069rgzrPjvCV74TbcZ0BV2bmpkdM8GA59NH8C1qHNfazuY5K4EwcttVZGFvzgmV7h23Eocd6hjtV34rv9okDTwXc2kPBNB3Coyi5Ep3_Me8oycUmqq-EGkwsLID-Qmu/s330/Screen%20Shot%202022-12-02%20at%2012.14.54%20PM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="290" data-original-width="330" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggBGq57Jdyjey9bnSy1hiN03H3M8w62-CUckrRU56psmvEXuoFYvcGznaWl069rgzrPjvCV74TbcZ0BV2bmpkdM8GA59NH8C1qHNfazuY5K4EwcttVZGFvzgmV7h23Eocd6hjtV34rv9okDTwXc2kPBNB3Coyi5Ep3_Me8oycUmqq-EGkwsLID-Qmu/s320/Screen%20Shot%202022-12-02%20at%2012.14.54%20PM.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://timelife.com/products/rock-and-roll-hall-of-fame-in-concert" target="_blank"><span style="color: #990000;"><b>TIME LIFE ROCK & ROLL HALL OF FAME: IN CONCERT</b></span></a><br /><span style="color: #38761d;">Retail Price:$119.96</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So this is for the music fan in your life who wishes they could have gone to every Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony that's ever taken place. Or who just appreciates good music from some of the most notable artists of our time. This set combines the best performances of the past 34 ceremonies including performances that have never been heard before by artists including Stevie Nicks, The Cars and The Cure. It also includes unique collaborations by artists such as U2, Fergie and will.i.am that will blow you away. Or, at least, they blew me away. I literally can't....stop.....listening. You will win best gift giver with this one. I promise.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQl-KNoUtW7QyHRkoi-pIxVbtSotW_9P7lcvKD5Vp9aLIYAsJwBXb6yzIrjrUt0B8dyB1at7gU713LE9AOaU0utGhVMknQTi4UdHpnvqh8Zi-0CHzxQLaiJCkU9g4KIDPyIYgKY6A8gWOoq98skTrDP-Zr6T-VQd-biqTjddlQpg7yWdTdkOZGa15r/s300/Screen%20Shot%202022-11-29%20at%2012.47.41%20PM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="300" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQl-KNoUtW7QyHRkoi-pIxVbtSotW_9P7lcvKD5Vp9aLIYAsJwBXb6yzIrjrUt0B8dyB1at7gU713LE9AOaU0utGhVMknQTi4UdHpnvqh8Zi-0CHzxQLaiJCkU9g4KIDPyIYgKY6A8gWOoq98skTrDP-Zr6T-VQd-biqTjddlQpg7yWdTdkOZGa15r/s1600/Screen%20Shot%202022-11-29%20at%2012.47.41%20PM.png" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://nuunlife.com/collections/nuun-bundles" target="_blank"><span style="color: #990000;"><b>NUUN Holiday Wellness Bundle</b></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Retail Price: $22.50</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Everyone needs this gift. Athletes, music fans, moms, dads, teenagers; all of us. This set has three tubes of<b> NUUN</b> specifically made to help you stay healthy and sleep well. Need I say more? I think not.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlPED_nkFC2AXU_qPnRzZohlawfuOPCQ20sSXo-MlngsCHUzgQ0aOdGU0ybnXXjWNHASXg1vPhYLAuoXax0W1CwRpxg3-A7Odbvcz_JhUr4SqI6zChsd4j1ohwUBlZtlH2L35QDxMFjqROna8v_BBNyWedSLvqj-WQlNPz64zbC1emdL6b2JtXZgSA/s500/51SX+cVs51L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="333" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlPED_nkFC2AXU_qPnRzZohlawfuOPCQ20sSXo-MlngsCHUzgQ0aOdGU0ybnXXjWNHASXg1vPhYLAuoXax0W1CwRpxg3-A7Odbvcz_JhUr4SqI6zChsd4j1ohwUBlZtlH2L35QDxMFjqROna8v_BBNyWedSLvqj-WQlNPz64zbC1emdL6b2JtXZgSA/s320/51SX+cVs51L.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Raised-80s-Unexpected-Excellent-Essential-ebook/dp/B0B8F3J2XT/ref=sr_1_2?crid=1WRGRWVAKODR2&keywords=raised+on+the+80s&qid=1670002499&sprefix=raised+on+the+80s%2Caps%2C79&sr=8-2" target="_blank"><span style="color: #990000;">Raised On The 80s</span></a> </b><span style="color: #990000;">by Chris Clews</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Retail Price: $19.95 on Amazon</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I was so excited when I discovered this gem by Chris Clews. I can't lie and say a lot of it isn't because I am a child of the 80s and have a special place in my heart for the music and movies that I grew up with. But for the young and old alike, there is so much funny, relatable wisdom in this book and I could not put it down. I suggest you gift it along with a pen or highlighter as there was a lot of underlining for me as I went through it. Fair warning, I laughed out loud. A lot. Like, embarrassed my daughter on the airplane, a lot. Sorry. Not sorry.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><h3 style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #222222; margin: 0px; position: relative;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #38761d;"> ************* </span><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;">STOCKING STUFFERS</span> </span><span style="color: #38761d;">************</span></span></h3></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0qAV4OjcZFG-fsXKJzwFZavshPAjOF2PR4Z5N6lgNZW2uViDAofgVESUIGmDA3-vfewDS_KLJNBpriywYq8lO8lMOnt7SGeIYZ7vsXc7jV5WLFDSnHxfk3Al6U7fLwCHZuwx3B99rqblBStrqiocxz7XEkhBaWdZRVZFJ00u5FF7UiQJM_d43IBUQ/s640/0-1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0qAV4OjcZFG-fsXKJzwFZavshPAjOF2PR4Z5N6lgNZW2uViDAofgVESUIGmDA3-vfewDS_KLJNBpriywYq8lO8lMOnt7SGeIYZ7vsXc7jV5WLFDSnHxfk3Al6U7fLwCHZuwx3B99rqblBStrqiocxz7XEkhBaWdZRVZFJ00u5FF7UiQJM_d43IBUQ/w400-h300/0-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The items above are some of my favorite little treats that can be thrown in the stockings in addition to the things that Santa puts in there. Obvs.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #990000;">Landgrove Coffee coffee clips</span></b> - keep your coffee fresh with these clips that seal your bag after you open it. Then scoop our your beans with the spoon on top. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #990000;">Rumpl Beer Jacket</span> </b>- use it to keep your hands warm when you're enjoying a cold drink, beer perhaps, or in my case, iced coffee. I use it every single day and keep it on my keychain so I don't lose it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #990000;"><b>Squirrels Nut Butter</b> </span>- Because winter. And chapped skin. And chafing. Which absolutely sucks. And is not at all necessary.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #990000;">Lexon Mino Speaker</span></b> - tiny little speaker that doesn't sound like a tiny little speaker. I keep mine in my travel kit and take it everywhere.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #990000;">JellyBelly Sport Beans</span></b> - quick, delicious energy on the go.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><h2 style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 22px; margin: 0px; position: relative;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">❄️</span>❄️❄️<span style="color: #cc0000;">❄️ RWM</span><span style="color: #38761d;"> WINTER GIVEAWAY </span>❄️❄️❄️❄️</h2><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLePXjfSexfRsLvLmsey8uQyimNKP1tRhan1i8cqTiRIfAVzD-6RG3a8ag_nNtbm-gMkp4Ryz9bpAd2Ad4D10V_NGZxz3e1QnzTymTvOeDFPZJT5uKvLWGYuIMbq9M4pJX_jEPH1YTxBE0D0bgOsONFrtZuknDVqN5IcOzPw1m4Qu24fdwMl8xF70Y/s640/0.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="441" data-original-width="640" height="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLePXjfSexfRsLvLmsey8uQyimNKP1tRhan1i8cqTiRIfAVzD-6RG3a8ag_nNtbm-gMkp4Ryz9bpAd2Ad4D10V_NGZxz3e1QnzTymTvOeDFPZJT5uKvLWGYuIMbq9M4pJX_jEPH1YTxBE0D0bgOsONFrtZuknDVqN5IcOzPw1m4Qu24fdwMl8xF70Y/w400-h276/0.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">And last, but definitely not least, the <span style="color: #990000;"><b>RWM HOLIDAY GIVEAWAY!</b> </span> There are SO many great things for you to enjoy and/or to share with someone you love. Because sharing is caring, right? I'm going to hold this giveaway over at <b><a href="https://www.instagram.com/runningwmusic/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #990000;">RWM on Instagram</span></a></b> this year as it's easier to have all the entries in one place. All you have to do to enter is "like" the post. Then throw an emoji down in the comments that best represents your current state of mind to lock in your entry. Yep, that's it. I'd love it if you'd follow all of these companies, too, as I think they're amazing and worth your time to get to know, but I'm trying to keep my rules to a minimum as we all have enough stuff on our plate at the moment. If you're not on Instagram, that's ok. Just shoot me an <a href="mailto:rebecca.trachsel@gmail.com" target="_blank"><span style="color: #990000;">email</span></a> and I'll add you to the drawing manually. Huge thanks to all of the companies that contributed to this giveaway. The vest will be shipped directly from Ororo. The beer will be shipped directly from Athletic Brewing Co. If the winner lives in one of the states listed below they will ship a different product. Retail value of this prize package is about $500.00. US Residents only for this one. Good luck!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div><span style="color: #38761d;">2 lbs of <b>Landgrove Coffee</b></span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;">1 <b>Landgrove Coffee </b>T-Shirt</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;">1 <b>Landgrove Coffee </b>Clip</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;">2<b> Landgrove Coffee </b>Visors</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;">1<b> Ororo </b>Heated Vest (M or W any size)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;">2 Tubs<b> of Squirrel's Nut Butter </b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;">1<b> Raise On the 80s </b>Book</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;">2 <b>Athletic Brewing Co. </b>Six Packs</span><span style="color: #990000;">*</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;">2 Packs <b>Sport beans</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;">1<b> NUUN </b>Holiday Wellness Set</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;">1<b> Rumpl </b>drink blanket</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;">1 <b>Timelife Rock & Roll Hall of Fame:In Concert </b>Set (see photo above)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;">1 <b>Runnerbox </b>Holiday Box (see photo above)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #990000; font-size: x-small;">*cannot ship beer to Idaho, Georgia, Mississippi, Nebraska, Kansas, or Michigan.</span> </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #990000;">Listen to this:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #990000;"><b><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/4iTzpvGuogPicXmJMGbPrW?si=aGwjAe1aSSiu_nurkDbPgw" target="_blank"><span style="color: #990000;">Grateful</span></a> </b>by Martin Luke Brown</span></div></div><iframe allow="autoplay" frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1340814853&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true" width="100%"></iframe><div style="color: #cccccc; font-family: Interstate, "Lucida Grande", "Lucida Sans Unicode", "Lucida Sans", Garuda, Verdana, Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-weight: 100; line-break: anywhere; overflow: hidden; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap; word-break: normal;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/martinlukebrown" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="Martin Luke Brown">Martin Luke Brown</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/martinlukebrown/grateful-3" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="grateful">grateful</a></div>RUNNINGWITHMUSIChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08229272359508846579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086750970765027099.post-38218170762271985522022-11-03T08:45:00.005-07:002022-11-04T04:51:34.988-07:00LIVE MUSIC:AWOLNATION<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">"If you're feeling like I feel </span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">then run your life like it’s a dance floor</span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">And if you need a little heat in your face, </span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">that’s what I’m here for."</span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">~ AWOLNATION, 'Burn it Down'</span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjos8_YUEsfa33i261xvyiWYYJjDI8YfzAMKlH4MCX1Sf4BqzyvROwKCK2pMVfHXNBQYurrdaSoux2NAXNFs68Rho_57AvuDStExEGiv9o0ez3BP2qFsGyUPTOwuXwn2CBaBkdfma2NvCwHpO2jVg3PVrzawsdrXCYGMmEs3DCFvDvpDUXoKi1Mo26U/s1440/477BAEB1-937F-4B76-9FBE-065646B47F8E.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjos8_YUEsfa33i261xvyiWYYJjDI8YfzAMKlH4MCX1Sf4BqzyvROwKCK2pMVfHXNBQYurrdaSoux2NAXNFs68Rho_57AvuDStExEGiv9o0ez3BP2qFsGyUPTOwuXwn2CBaBkdfma2NvCwHpO2jVg3PVrzawsdrXCYGMmEs3DCFvDvpDUXoKi1Mo26U/s320/477BAEB1-937F-4B76-9FBE-065646B47F8E.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><p>It's been a hot minute since I've seen live music. For various reasons including work, kids, training and whatnot. Though, I guess if I'm being honest, the main one is that it is borderline impossible for me to stay up past 9:30 these days. As I write this I am literally calling myself out on being a total dork but what can I say? Sleep is life. That said, <a href="https://www.awolnationmusic.com/" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">AWOLNATION</span></b></a>, which is the band I was going to see, is one of my all time favorites and I decided I could put on my big girl pants for one night and stay up late for the sake of good music. The show was on Sunday night which for any concert goer, young or old, cool or not, is less than ideal. Fortunately, I had two friends coming with me which kept the temptation to bail at bay. Knowing there were two bands coming on before AWOL I decided to just go straight to the source and ask them what time they'd be starting so I could plan ahead both in regards to dinner as well as my caffeine intake which I would have to time wisely. Thankfully, whoever is behind their Instagram account got right back to me and let me know they weren't starting until 9:30. So, yea. That's three coffees. Minimum. Whoever I chatted with was in the same boat which I could appreciate.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbyUyzJi5CsLgQm-0dYrs4K4OAS83TkjPctvISSlXR9Bm7QW1I02yr4oc6laSB6cyKCIYgK-tUS252xL-njO1CDZShnu6xEOn7okpe5Pl5uovz6xv27z7gTpm3A1teCEE0-JBhqdGCsgRY8Ng4WCJKkCsGTsVVbUCsGRvFyluS4CrZKlUadhQI41s9/s855/0-1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="855" data-original-width="626" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbyUyzJi5CsLgQm-0dYrs4K4OAS83TkjPctvISSlXR9Bm7QW1I02yr4oc6laSB6cyKCIYgK-tUS252xL-njO1CDZShnu6xEOn7okpe5Pl5uovz6xv27z7gTpm3A1teCEE0-JBhqdGCsgRY8Ng4WCJKkCsGTsVVbUCsGRvFyluS4CrZKlUadhQI41s9/w293-h400/0-1.jpg" width="293" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Wendy, Ali and I headed over to <a href="https://www.hojokoboston.com/" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">Hojoko</span></b></a> for dinner on the early side. All three of us are busy, working moms so dinner out is rare and we wanted to make it count. Hojoko<span style="color: #b45f06;"> </span>is written up as <i>"a rock n roll tavern honoring the pulse of Japanese nightlife." </i>Yes please. It was loud and hopping with all sorts of people including concert goers, college kids and parents with young kids (just....how?). It was a really fun, high- energy vibe which is exactly what I needed, and the food, which was super creative, did not disappoint. We enjoyed dinner while the opening bands played and then settled up and walked over to the <a href="https://www.houseofblues.com/boston" target="_blank"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>House of Blues</b></span></a> around 9:00.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrNfpsupD0Ii9Rz3wPB0ce_bZW1zrokdGXELqJr89RET7Whsw1HAxsHhfAX1QlDPluUdSe3UmuCKNIYbFvxaBVVS9w0AaGhjjvHh_h0Mu8PuOqajQA1K9F-3V7mSInOVh2hw68eOmrZpKqtKUK5dFTF5bs-30mGBGh2H2VXH-Cgkwlze-t7WSKxdu_/s4032/IMG_8189.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrNfpsupD0Ii9Rz3wPB0ce_bZW1zrokdGXELqJr89RET7Whsw1HAxsHhfAX1QlDPluUdSe3UmuCKNIYbFvxaBVVS9w0AaGhjjvHh_h0Mu8PuOqajQA1K9F-3V7mSInOVh2hw68eOmrZpKqtKUK5dFTF5bs-30mGBGh2H2VXH-Cgkwlze-t7WSKxdu_/s320/IMG_8189.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Upon arrival we were promptly carded. Because, you know, they gotta check ID even when they are 100% sure that they do not, in fact, have to check ID. I mean, we weren't complaining about it. But, still, it's funny. I always like to play the "guess how old I am" game which is a risky move as it can reset the tone if they age up. At the same time, I always feel kind of badass to be one of the more seasoned fans in the crowd at a show; still rocking out despite my age. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrmmZOMQcjeIrXtRH6A4O-a5HygMAmUFIdQXZ_h5DpTjvi7QDy5vs6NytENZAMM5vi6vSM_TzYUVl0H2nlwao2H03rfQFjKvyoinCMhmXlwWtZXxwCImTGetlSttyB5ExKjHgRORQlslJRG2b4skxKn-YzTL2z_6jpOD4kJ5jfUPVFtfEnWEdTjdQd/s855/0-2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="855" data-original-width="855" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrmmZOMQcjeIrXtRH6A4O-a5HygMAmUFIdQXZ_h5DpTjvi7QDy5vs6NytENZAMM5vi6vSM_TzYUVl0H2nlwao2H03rfQFjKvyoinCMhmXlwWtZXxwCImTGetlSttyB5ExKjHgRORQlslJRG2b4skxKn-YzTL2z_6jpOD4kJ5jfUPVFtfEnWEdTjdQd/s320/0-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As promised, lead singer Aaron Bruno walked onstage right at 9:30 and they jumped right in with their recently released single, <span style="color: #b45f06;">'Freaking Me Out'.</span> The crowd seemed to take some time to ease in. I, on the other hand, went straight into 'jump up and down like a little school girl' mode. Had to. I was out late. I was over-caffeinated. And I was seeing a band that I love. I didn't care what the people around me were thinking. I was leaning in. And I was having a freaking blast. They played stuff from all four of their albums and I was that "kid" who was singing along to every, single, song. Sorry. Not sorry. Bruno has such a magnetic personality onstage and his voice, which is an odd combo of both soft and very, very loud is totally mesmerizing. It is so clear that he loves doing what he does and sharing it with the rest of us. I don't know, something just comes over me when I hear them play and, not to sound cheesy, but it's pretty special. It's a unique experience that only live music can provide and I was fully soaking it up. At the end of the night they came back on for an encore and played their original hit single, <i><span style="color: #b45f06;">SAIL</span></i>, which is the song I heard in my car when I discovered them way back when. <span style="color: #b45f06;"><i>"I wrote this song 12 or 13 years ago"</i>,</span> Bruno told us, <span style="color: #b45f06;">"</span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-style: italic;">and at the time I thought the only person who would hear it would be my brother." </span>Thankfully, for us, this was not the case. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV8uClQr1-1spC6amMWmkaADQXm7UDHZrDcbyzjShGOttbeXFtLup9OG9sNu7ZRG0B6ehqyB7LgaILbOY_y7UjVrskNNeBZ8EVsPEtvOcSc9lDJ95dm0ZclRf3ovNLfUqndreBLQCF0ZrSqPFbOkvqMMU6Ucr3pwLwzJmsnjM3mQrtzBtM-7wJfHV9/s640/0.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="366" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV8uClQr1-1spC6amMWmkaADQXm7UDHZrDcbyzjShGOttbeXFtLup9OG9sNu7ZRG0B6ehqyB7LgaILbOY_y7UjVrskNNeBZ8EVsPEtvOcSc9lDJ95dm0ZclRf3ovNLfUqndreBLQCF0ZrSqPFbOkvqMMU6Ucr3pwLwzJmsnjM3mQrtzBtM-7wJfHV9/w229-h400/0.jpg" width="229" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As I said, it takes a lot to get me out for live music these days. But, once I'm there, hearing and feeling the music in person, I remember why it's worth it. Go see live music. There is truly nothing like it.</div><div><br /></div><span style="color: #b45f06;">Listen to this:</span><div><b><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/3I8U8BMugXc4ZGzAl5IkCc?si=7J5iw26mSK2YvD9dOLtsHw" target="_blank"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Freaking Me Out</span></a> </b><span style="color: #b45f06;">- AWOLNATION</span></div>
<iframe allow="autoplay" frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1334457733&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true" width="100%"></iframe><div style="color: #cccccc; font-family: Interstate, "Lucida Grande", "Lucida Sans Unicode", "Lucida Sans", Garuda, Verdana, Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-weight: 100; line-break: anywhere; overflow: hidden; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap; word-break: normal;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/awolnation" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="AWOLNATION">AWOLNATION</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/awolnation/freaking-me-out" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="Freaking Me Out">Freaking Me Out</a></div>RUNNINGWITHMUSIChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08229272359508846579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086750970765027099.post-60208793289648376472022-10-12T11:03:00.009-07:002022-10-12T11:20:33.068-07:00RACE REVIEW:CHICAGO MARATHON<div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">"I'm holding on</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">To something I don't want</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">To hold on to</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">I'm reaching out</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">For something I can't touch</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">Although I know I want to" </span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">~ The River, KT Tunstall</span></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOhYwnVUmY2SYmqLJTt6I5Vh267dNHAdc2sCV0BxQhd70eSojTTkfmZu9fFQORmhTMc5XaykvIpDBU2014kkLKih9l0UWQa1isB6XD8DJQMND3jI-lB3kWT7NHBNyKt56DQn96fu99IcrBeWWIh2pTYTvNoavEztELEfa_cb3WzG2hG7J6EqN6565d/s483/IMG_8017.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="483" data-original-width="472" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOhYwnVUmY2SYmqLJTt6I5Vh267dNHAdc2sCV0BxQhd70eSojTTkfmZu9fFQORmhTMc5XaykvIpDBU2014kkLKih9l0UWQa1isB6XD8DJQMND3jI-lB3kWT7NHBNyKt56DQn96fu99IcrBeWWIh2pTYTvNoavEztELEfa_cb3WzG2hG7J6EqN6565d/w196-h200/IMG_8017.JPG" width="196" /></a></div>On Sunday I lined up in Chicago for my 29th marathon. The weekend was a blast. The race itself went pretty well. I'll just come right out and say that I expected more from myself. Aside from a bout of Covid back in July, my training cycle was super smooth. When my coach asked me how I was feeling earlier in the week I told him that I'd never felt more prepared for a marathon. Obviously there are a million things that can go wrong on race day and one can only control so much but I still felt confident that if the unknowns (weather, travel, etc.) were in my favor I could probably hit my goal which was somewhere in the 2:55-56 range. Lofty, yes. But I've managed to run personal bests in every distance this year from the 10K to the half marathon and hit pace during workouts steadily so I didn't feel like it was out of reach. More importantly, my coach agreed that it was tangible and he's not one to sugar coat things. So off I went on Friday, feeling excited, nervous and cautiously optimistic. My flight was at 1:30 in the afternoon and I landed around 3:00 only to hop in a cab with Achmed, a very nice gentleman from Jordan, who informed me that even though it was 14 miles into the city the ride would take an hour and a half because of traffic. I got the sense that Achmed wasn't too thrilled about driving into the belly of the beast during rush hour but he agreed nonetheless. We fell into conversation pretty easily and ended up chatting the entire ride. We were going about 2 miles per hour but time went by pretty fast all things considered. In the end, I was grateful for his company and for the history lesson that he gave me about Russia. <div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS0XbOKX0FU-p3Lz1Q71C-GQlHlmRUCqFNodCFb7lQP8qZgEQZjJyK97-u-1f6yuZJ5NKQWbfwmnR-Zdg5LDL526hsPGXNAZLtVReqhcSN9_cSEqXxyd3BdBrztD36COG6bHpoJa2frcUWJFCAr0jbKFLxro3sfKG5x7o7UqlNcnbjXmM7VNkVSHDc/s640/IMG_2625.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS0XbOKX0FU-p3Lz1Q71C-GQlHlmRUCqFNodCFb7lQP8qZgEQZjJyK97-u-1f6yuZJ5NKQWbfwmnR-Zdg5LDL526hsPGXNAZLtVReqhcSN9_cSEqXxyd3BdBrztD36COG6bHpoJa2frcUWJFCAr0jbKFLxro3sfKG5x7o7UqlNcnbjXmM7VNkVSHDc/s320/IMG_2625.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After settling into my room I immediately texted Carrie Birth, a friend of mine who I connected with through running about 8 years ago and who I was planning to race with on Sunday but who I'd never actually met in person. It's crazy but it's not, you know? We both used to run for Skechers Performance and have grown very close since we joined the team back in 2016; cheering each other on in racing and in life, and finally we were connecting face to face. After a very long hug, we dove right in and started discussing our race plan, including pacing, fuel and anything else we could think of that we might be dealing with. I've never lined up specifically with a buddy who shared my exact same goal and I was really fired up about it. Obviously things might not work out and we might have to split up at some point. And of course we both knew this. But we decided to try and stick together for at least the first 10 miles and then make the call after that. Stronger together, right? She and her husband Justin eventually left for their hotel and I went back up to my room to settle in for the night. Chicago is an hour behind and it was already 8:00 so....yea. What can I say? I'm nothing if not predictable. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipJde6zSycZUjJ41NdtMEPErq1Cyc2rR_rBdIyNhiTQWKvDcjcYq0-BNtCfgwONsj7J118u48enUSbtdRypH4RH8yjlz0Vv6qjU-yjRfcEEU7GixGMlsIr3at9aNu1fD6OL5QWOFWTa9AYV-cluJjWBukk9TADu-4lKyfakJnaDgW4NwwSl4IBYVsK/s640/IMG_7974.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipJde6zSycZUjJ41NdtMEPErq1Cyc2rR_rBdIyNhiTQWKvDcjcYq0-BNtCfgwONsj7J118u48enUSbtdRypH4RH8yjlz0Vv6qjU-yjRfcEEU7GixGMlsIr3at9aNu1fD6OL5QWOFWTa9AYV-cluJjWBukk9TADu-4lKyfakJnaDgW4NwwSl4IBYVsK/s320/IMG_7974.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I was up very early the next morning and beelined it down to the Starbucks that was IN MY HOTEL. I know. Too good to be true. I sat and drank a latte and then made my way out to the riverfront for the <a href="https://nuunlife.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #b45f06;">NUUN</span></a> meet up. I've been on the NUUN team for 12 years but despite this I did not know a single person at the meet up when I arrived. It's always a little awkward to arrive at these things solo and even more so when you don't have any connections but I needed to run anyway and all of these very nice people were headed out so I figured I might as well tuck in with the group and get my miles in. I guess my feeling is this: I'm 47. I'm in Chicago by myself. And life is too short to be shy at this point in my life. Shortly after we got going I struck up a conversation with a really nice guy who ran on the local Under Armor team. Turns out Under Armor was co-sponsoring the event together with NUUN. We then started chatting with a lovely gal named Alia who was running her first marathon. Alia and I ended up turning around sooner than everyone else and continued chatting back to the event site. As I grabbed some NUUN to sip on I spotted Melia, our team manager. I have never met her in person either but she emails us all the time and keeps our NUUN world in order so I was thrilled to put a face to the name. She's an absolute gem and after hanging with her for a while we said our goodbyes and took some pics. Before I left I went back and gave Alia a quick hug and wished her good luck. Because, as we all know, your first marathon is a big deal. I also happened to win a water bottle and UA backpack in the event raffle which was an unexpected bonus and had me skipping with a stupid smile on my face back to the hotel.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM4ih_Y_aN6woCAiKYEQBDeF_TOjBG-mCKHQqMQg6GO_4evavm7ElI-Hno99n6T8z37C2Ci7amOEc2CwLMMep49NPKTo9dUme5U7-mmuUhkE_0PWnvorD2537ZqiCqIhMJzMe0Mg-nD9fCdkl3Xdr1IpOWnPAHbnHqZg15_qL6nrNcCSNkB8RZHjsC/s640/IMG_7983.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM4ih_Y_aN6woCAiKYEQBDeF_TOjBG-mCKHQqMQg6GO_4evavm7ElI-Hno99n6T8z37C2Ci7amOEc2CwLMMep49NPKTo9dUme5U7-mmuUhkE_0PWnvorD2537ZqiCqIhMJzMe0Mg-nD9fCdkl3Xdr1IpOWnPAHbnHqZg15_qL6nrNcCSNkB8RZHjsC/s320/IMG_7983.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Next up, the expo. My plan was to grab my number and shirt and take a quick spin around to pick up any cool samples along with some merch for my kids and then to get back to the hotel so I could get off my feet. Side note, I did Chicago back in 2019 and had too much fun with my family running around the city and doing all the things but then paid for it on race day so I wasn't going to make the same mistake this time. At the expo, I got to meet up with my dear friend, Kara Goucher, right before I was leaving. We've known each other for a while as well and caught each other up on life and what not before she started to get pulled away for photos with fans. She also happens to very close with Carrie and I knew I'd see her out on the course the next day so I gave her another hug and took off for the Sheraton.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7e9MkOpJ4LIwNDt9lfnZ2MblONtCJi2hWp9JOmqtUWUQaBW_aDP6CMvg_3-YG5MmaCJeUxyP5TyAO3wsIF0__h5Jg2zatQwJgL8SgZxxwBtW6dVD_n6E9W9Z60g6Amd6eUeHRXrpS8vyQQRzwcFzI8E21XmFT7fGF8KPsEBV8zVcPh0odE2eFuMxY/s640/IMG_7991.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7e9MkOpJ4LIwNDt9lfnZ2MblONtCJi2hWp9JOmqtUWUQaBW_aDP6CMvg_3-YG5MmaCJeUxyP5TyAO3wsIF0__h5Jg2zatQwJgL8SgZxxwBtW6dVD_n6E9W9Z60g6Amd6eUeHRXrpS8vyQQRzwcFzI8E21XmFT7fGF8KPsEBV8zVcPh0odE2eFuMxY/s320/IMG_7991.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After about six episodes of The Office I got a text from my sweet friend, Kim Pearlman, who was in the city to pick up her daughter and wanted to know if I had time for a visit. <i>YES!!</i>, I exclaimed. Please come save me from myself and Michael Scott. We hung out in the lobby for about an hour and talked family, friends, life, jobs and Kung-Fu among other things. It was so nice to hang out with her as it had been a few years since I'd seen her. I was super grateful for the distraction as well. We said goodbye and I sent her off and then, once again, went back up to my room to curl up for the evening. I laid out my gear, ate some cold pasta, did some foam rolling, watched a really bad movie and then shut it down around 9:00. I know, late for me.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxLxNkl5Cdyz06soIab7rss7S5usuxwfPWbSlSaKcWVOX1xRYekwwln2MkHtEnnMbdKLoKbE1FL4XO7XNDMb9p0zxvfATrZeIpsLpGMNUu2klxyjvX5AGPcHv73gvaUdLMvksqjK2OYPl9mDe38OIZt4wIu4qAp80M4fRW7pDMJtdHTuhe17CFQdSJ/s640/5E936097-19C9-4997-8530-F440A37468C5.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="540" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxLxNkl5Cdyz06soIab7rss7S5usuxwfPWbSlSaKcWVOX1xRYekwwln2MkHtEnnMbdKLoKbE1FL4XO7XNDMb9p0zxvfATrZeIpsLpGMNUu2klxyjvX5AGPcHv73gvaUdLMvksqjK2OYPl9mDe38OIZt4wIu4qAp80M4fRW7pDMJtdHTuhe17CFQdSJ/s320/5E936097-19C9-4997-8530-F440A37468C5.JPG" width="270" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I woke up before my alarm at about 4:45. I made some crappy coffee in the room's little single serve machine because nothing was open yet and I needed it asap. I had done a test run the day before and knew it was going to be bad so I wasn't terribly disappointed by the taste of this first cup. Let's just say I've had worse. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie7Ng_KpW0OdQaBimRlA0Luf-bcttgwEK_Y2orlcAqh-AFnsgeESYps6yHlfLZXKqT7ok8RJKkVZljYP-y4IzNL07yl3KkrTVo6ZTzO15G1dvcobu4vkqfWVxtd_gusUE7_DQ82SgQX6Eezzsleih7UPb0twOyhXAbd8XCJO6hDZJgCp4JjGM1IixH/s640/IMG_7995.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie7Ng_KpW0OdQaBimRlA0Luf-bcttgwEK_Y2orlcAqh-AFnsgeESYps6yHlfLZXKqT7ok8RJKkVZljYP-y4IzNL07yl3KkrTVo6ZTzO15G1dvcobu4vkqfWVxtd_gusUE7_DQ82SgQX6Eezzsleih7UPb0twOyhXAbd8XCJO6hDZJgCp4JjGM1IixH/s320/IMG_7995.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I got myself all packed up, pinned on my bib and then headed out to walk the mile or so over to Grant Park where we would be starting. I'd been accepted into the American Development program for this race with a qualifying time from my last marathon. Basically, this meant I got to take advantage of the special tent that was set up right near the start line for a small group of athletes that was both heated and stocked up with snacks and drinks and that we would get to start before the masses. This is a really nice comfort to enjoy on race morning when you're likely stressed out due to race nerves. Well, it would have been. But, you see, every single person I asked as I walked around the area had no idea where the American Development tent was despite the fact that it was marked on the map. Literally. No one. I probably asked about fifteen volunteers and walked an extra mile around the start area looking for it. And to be honest, I would have given up and just sat my ass down and waited but I needed to find it because I was meeting up with Carrie and it would be the only way we could start together. By the time I found it I was wicked flustered and had very little time to enjoy the amenities. Carried hugged me and told me to try to relax, bless her. I basically was able to stash my gear and re-tie my shoes before we were told we needed to move out. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC__6SI34SMiIjsnKvIF-_Lh29130pltrnhhw-2vImdh3BgGfr9kS-Tzxwg3VA_PPahbwqsc6QjHJ5Xr8RO0VfWNZn5D9hH3JcQrG-38e4HtBkvycAvTnnlaO2aGK0GF4_wp1-gmwpkyjg5400ESItpw6y0eSUIi2eTbHX39I28W8x3NOflL9N3G4V/s640/IMG_8002.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC__6SI34SMiIjsnKvIF-_Lh29130pltrnhhw-2vImdh3BgGfr9kS-Tzxwg3VA_PPahbwqsc6QjHJ5Xr8RO0VfWNZn5D9hH3JcQrG-38e4HtBkvycAvTnnlaO2aGK0GF4_wp1-gmwpkyjg5400ESItpw6y0eSUIi2eTbHX39I28W8x3NOflL9N3G4V/s320/IMG_8002.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It was now about 7:20am and the temp was in the low 40s. We could not ask for better race weather. But it was still pretty chilly standing there in a crop top so Carrie and I linked arms and stayed close in an attempt to keep each other warm. Finally, at 7:30am, we were off. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBtTEWZ04Hoc0TX3ZZddtaeLRxU1EuzqsibYxy_kK1u2wGBEBbrIZUjjoiCeDwU0ZeHVF6lO6uJMbu0cm_nWvQzGQaTGIlY4Fk5nNPehpY-JLSw-_tI_c5BvcmT-bbQSs21bel0-vbZ6aJjdDT3jFI506sjz82W4feL4rK7g-IXXN8XbnP6uIKgYQm/s640/1192944_318362907_XLarge.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="428" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBtTEWZ04Hoc0TX3ZZddtaeLRxU1EuzqsibYxy_kK1u2wGBEBbrIZUjjoiCeDwU0ZeHVF6lO6uJMbu0cm_nWvQzGQaTGIlY4Fk5nNPehpY-JLSw-_tI_c5BvcmT-bbQSs21bel0-vbZ6aJjdDT3jFI506sjz82W4feL4rK7g-IXXN8XbnP6uIKgYQm/s320/1192944_318362907_XLarge.JPG" width="214" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>THE RACE:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As I mentioned, Carrie and I had decided that we would work to stay together for the first 10 miles and see how we felt. If we could get into a good groove and we were still hitting goal pace after 10, then we'd buckle down and work to push each other along for as long as we could. These first 10 miles were amazing. Carrie is an insanely good pacer and was able to lock right into 6:45. My first mile, according to my Garmin, was 7:16, which just wasn't right. Carrie assured me that she had 6:44 and that I shouldn't panic. Unfortunately, GPS signal is weak or not accurate in the city due to the height of the buildings and I knew this from the last time I'd done it but it's still somewhat unsettling. I was doing my best to watch my individual splits, trust Carrie and just use the force.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEebGmA0VrdU-soHrOai0BJGVFVpj52I6YuaHSovE5I2xI0jQBftxBDBn6EWlkwgq6uLrBvzpCoIxMKVb12zXcp0xVOpj8xa5KqYOLdVO_areTZJP6WTjmobSSZxpy91zY_LfJ-AU-lUBkUIgSi1xE4E9snGDUdzk_2HkhIR9mT4OqD5GFFNVqkGEF/s4032/FullSizeRender-preview.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEebGmA0VrdU-soHrOai0BJGVFVpj52I6YuaHSovE5I2xI0jQBftxBDBn6EWlkwgq6uLrBvzpCoIxMKVb12zXcp0xVOpj8xa5KqYOLdVO_areTZJP6WTjmobSSZxpy91zY_LfJ-AU-lUBkUIgSi1xE4E9snGDUdzk_2HkhIR9mT4OqD5GFFNVqkGEF/s320/FullSizeRender-preview.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We were able to communicate at almost every water stop. We'd check in and if we both decided we wanted it we'd grab either water or Gatorade and just share the cup so we didn't have to slow down or split up. I'm not gonna lie, we were really good at this. I was super proud of our team effort here. We were still right on pace through about mile 16 and then we started to slow. Not a ton. But enough that if we didn't pay attention it was going to cost us our sub-3 which we both wanted. And, bottom line, I just didn't pay attention enough. Miles 16-20 were right around 6:55-7:00. I wasn't looking at my watch and I wasn't looking at the clock. I was just in cruise control. Still feeling really good and having a grand old time.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiISFEk7RVDOiV6PCx3u7DbSTad9X7ebK88DJufIEyw6DVSUaAG3A9Gm2R6PqAZtpGKgkVc42ycwjz0ZojnAd5Xx3jMCPV1HYDVUma8s7XglG0Nnr3FZpKUGiVaRfUJXsFKm71Ky7Hx5LlHnp4kA68H-All4vS7rlA-8UdH8AV7Z9NApN3oOYGpxRiH/s640/IMG_8807.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiISFEk7RVDOiV6PCx3u7DbSTad9X7ebK88DJufIEyw6DVSUaAG3A9Gm2R6PqAZtpGKgkVc42ycwjz0ZojnAd5Xx3jMCPV1HYDVUma8s7XglG0Nnr3FZpKUGiVaRfUJXsFKm71Ky7Hx5LlHnp4kA68H-All4vS7rlA-8UdH8AV7Z9NApN3oOYGpxRiH/s320/IMG_8807.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Right around mile 21 I realized my mistake. I had to get my ass in gear if I was going to run anywhere close to my goal and I only had 5 miles to do it. I kept watching the clock as the miles ticked by and trying to do the math in my head since my GPS wasn't working. Turns out, math during a marathon is really hard. Like, I couldn't do it. I was able to pick it back up for this last section but it was too late and as I got closer to the finish I knew it. Regardless, I did everything I could to find a faster gear for my last couple miles and finally crossed the line in a respectable 3:01:08. Initially I was pleased. I'd run really steady and my body had held up better than usual. That said, I'd needed to buckle down and focus a little sooner and I was disappointed that I hadn't done this. If I'm being honest, I kind of felt too good at the finish. This never happens. And it's nice not to feel destroyed. But I would have rather bit down and finished in pain with a better time and I won't make this mistake again. Marathon #29. 47 years old. And still, I'm learning. Which is a good thing. Because, as you can guess, it makes me want to try again. Which I most certainly will. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigs15ytEstjBQ6vnfioUUUOiDiu30Vx80vi4HUR2RZUGukwxlpNygiTIi7PDbCSvseMAnYV70A4c62fnLH5uPeFKsHjXrp_7A7CBpwH8r2-M9TxFVEUtMwDBMPvxZLRO6QDPEFltkHDRoCYWMjR0zLJbY8nxkj6cybDVu3rgd3NywWNYNdz89Z71eM/s648/D24631A0-4624-46C0-B532-FB3E0483A6B0.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="648" data-original-width="648" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigs15ytEstjBQ6vnfioUUUOiDiu30Vx80vi4HUR2RZUGukwxlpNygiTIi7PDbCSvseMAnYV70A4c62fnLH5uPeFKsHjXrp_7A7CBpwH8r2-M9TxFVEUtMwDBMPvxZLRO6QDPEFltkHDRoCYWMjR0zLJbY8nxkj6cybDVu3rgd3NywWNYNdz89Z71eM/s320/D24631A0-4624-46C0-B532-FB3E0483A6B0.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I found Carrie in the finish chute. She'd come in right behind me and had similar feelings about her performance. She was a bit dehydrated and slightly out of it and she kept asking me questions like the ones below as we walked gingerly back to our tent.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1. Can we sit down?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2. Can we sit down now?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">3. Where is our tent?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">4. Now can we sit?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">5. Are we sunburned?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">6. Why are there curbs on the street?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">7. In how many minutes can we sit?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">For the record, even at the finish no one had a clue where the American Devlopment tent was. We were dying laughing as we asked every single volunteer we passed and they looked us like we were crazy or apologized and said they had no idea. I swear you guys, there was a tent. I think. Right, Carrie?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Listen to this:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/7vPIdoj9OvQYqWVUXxZ4wP?si=opuDRkOOQIqhweDedVKaSQ" target="_blank"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>The River</b></span></a><span style="color: #b45f06;"> - KT Tunstall</span></div></div></div></div><p></p>
<iframe allow="autoplay" frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/485565198&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true" width="100%"></iframe><div style="color: #cccccc; font-family: Interstate, "Lucida Grande", "Lucida Sans Unicode", "Lucida Sans", Garuda, Verdana, Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-weight: 100; line-break: anywhere; overflow: hidden; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap; word-break: normal;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/kt-tunstall" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="KT Tunstall">KT Tunstall</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/kt-tunstall/the-river" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="The River">The River</a></div></div>RUNNINGWITHMUSIChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08229272359508846579noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086750970765027099.post-47808421011638795572022-09-29T09:25:00.002-07:002022-09-29T09:27:10.108-07:00LONE GULL 10K: A PHOTO STORY<p></p><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">How you've grown</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">Look back now</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">And move on</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">Don't worry</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">About a thing</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">Just grab those car keys</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">And drive into the rain </span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">~ Car Keys, Jaguar Sun</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span>Keeping it simple for this one. Because, let's be honest, I don't change it up much when it comes to race day. Coffee, dogs, drive, race, coffee. That pretty much sums it up most of the time. This was my last hard effort before the Chicago marathon which is on October 9th. It was a great race and a really fun morning in general. The goal was to push hard and that's what I did. Back in 2018, I ran the Tufts 10k. I was 33 years old and it was my first time lining up since having my daughters. I could not <i>wait</i> to get back into it. Today I'm 47 and while I'm still after it, I see running and racing in a whole new light. At this point in my life I'm just grateful to do what I love and curious to see what's possible. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">Lone Gull 10K</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180;"><b>Sunday, October 25th</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvBE_ePlMMHd5JhI4cbNwb2JupWoNP9aniUq3STVEt8IvhTeYXDKqN7GTHg1dXKEGGTvXYyrM6ipvJTjWm_difztFIDBZmK98nme-i16pdVrxOJrKmZye7stgxNmjp-LjG08-pQJvXls7B2QX09rhBkTCgIK5Io3AxVvw3cZjy_f8FA8weKm5K9B0x/s4032/IMG_7466.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvBE_ePlMMHd5JhI4cbNwb2JupWoNP9aniUq3STVEt8IvhTeYXDKqN7GTHg1dXKEGGTvXYyrM6ipvJTjWm_difztFIDBZmK98nme-i16pdVrxOJrKmZye7stgxNmjp-LjG08-pQJvXls7B2QX09rhBkTCgIK5Io3AxVvw3cZjy_f8FA8weKm5K9B0x/s320/IMG_7466.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #800180;">6:00am</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Saturday was nuts. And I'm wicked tired. But it's a beautiful morning. So, zero complaints.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfVaq4d5dHMS8gEkZLE7RLSLRS7C4bYgrfesfhS_m0B4v7aUNqX7rfkdWoH1oQIo2TluQAOAyS07jQQM-V6uj0q4PIYz6gOFb5FMEzPwxZ4emw45Jm4Ujyfdw20fO-GyeU6PgNq8UBItGQ238ORcFxlMaPdNIFYZsObBCLuhIGP2VPTnLukJz4nXty/s3088/IMG_7494.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3088" data-original-width="2316" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfVaq4d5dHMS8gEkZLE7RLSLRS7C4bYgrfesfhS_m0B4v7aUNqX7rfkdWoH1oQIo2TluQAOAyS07jQQM-V6uj0q4PIYz6gOFb5FMEzPwxZ4emw45Jm4Ujyfdw20fO-GyeU6PgNq8UBItGQ238ORcFxlMaPdNIFYZsObBCLuhIGP2VPTnLukJz4nXty/s320/IMG_7494.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #800180;">6:35am</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Coffee on the front porch with Clover & Enzo. Enzo is hiding behind me because he's scared of the camera. And pretty much everything.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitKMvI7fG5xi2IFh4eD1397PMbJJwgbfdusndvbgnoszdFWE1SJCzeHMZt8KCcUGMW_txxQx_SwzloRyzUfvR9wg_djZwC2QXugjl71yrMNjDXsj73Pg81EoHtEPOlDqIMqRqACH_qC4J_SFkugXCLZ2Ii1kPf0VrIlUhjDlYrXURFur67g-WXBaGO/s1440/IMG_7587.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="860" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitKMvI7fG5xi2IFh4eD1397PMbJJwgbfdusndvbgnoszdFWE1SJCzeHMZt8KCcUGMW_txxQx_SwzloRyzUfvR9wg_djZwC2QXugjl71yrMNjDXsj73Pg81EoHtEPOlDqIMqRqACH_qC4J_SFkugXCLZ2Ii1kPf0VrIlUhjDlYrXURFur67g-WXBaGO/w239-h400/IMG_7587.PNG" width="239" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #800180;">7:15am</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">41 minutes to get to Gloucester, MA. Love that for me.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY51IkafMurApk6-mm4aQhA9FJqhsBfae9yryiHVmQbWVAtweOSefp8YIQS_aYHbGovaj22_fjQw8_O6Ws02-Xd31enKiLyqKKOAWBEZEdALeVj51QW-2gT8uGEYpJFCD4XtEDr9dIePFyu8UhmfyY2nEhr47Scn8PjL1Y35k8GIujKbgXQpwDgi_D/s4032/IMG_7591.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY51IkafMurApk6-mm4aQhA9FJqhsBfae9yryiHVmQbWVAtweOSefp8YIQS_aYHbGovaj22_fjQw8_O6Ws02-Xd31enKiLyqKKOAWBEZEdALeVj51QW-2gT8uGEYpJFCD4XtEDr9dIePFyu8UhmfyY2nEhr47Scn8PjL1Y35k8GIujKbgXQpwDgi_D/w400-h300/IMG_7591.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #800180;">8:45am</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Calm before the storm.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR_obk9JZb5tuGXJ7Kp3d1jTjsQ1p5kSZbI98uhUSmJUHHquN0t-IVppYP-Ar0Dj9LE9mMXqBurQjhvcpT6n5fy2hZ-FWLeQSa8PRJjA4j-gghmyBeYfCQ8ViIt-ydEVS3Nf_8UUED22wz5XLWk_IUpyZev68N1RJDQSgG00dVDASNtaj7ZxkwidaT/s4032/IMG_7589.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR_obk9JZb5tuGXJ7Kp3d1jTjsQ1p5kSZbI98uhUSmJUHHquN0t-IVppYP-Ar0Dj9LE9mMXqBurQjhvcpT6n5fy2hZ-FWLeQSa8PRJjA4j-gghmyBeYfCQ8ViIt-ydEVS3Nf_8UUED22wz5XLWk_IUpyZev68N1RJDQSgG00dVDASNtaj7ZxkwidaT/s320/IMG_7589.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180;"><b>8:50am</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Walking to the start of the race. Hoping we don't have to run on this sand. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA0lQf9A2JGJOxCKd3coiDoqxgh4aXLWIfM32a3J-TKvj3wPi38GrAp3TxmWL5QQiVE6XWwo1a2bbcJ8sT35yY-JHoYSXgsZ6FukvX4CWmq17aTgxWrtIauBbR2DRpSZz9SgK_uMJ7JM8LuaoeOn8UtmXxewTd7e-G-ZqU7ObD3avOAo6Lnw6Qh8eJ/s4032/IMG_7592.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA0lQf9A2JGJOxCKd3coiDoqxgh4aXLWIfM32a3J-TKvj3wPi38GrAp3TxmWL5QQiVE6XWwo1a2bbcJ8sT35yY-JHoYSXgsZ6FukvX4CWmq17aTgxWrtIauBbR2DRpSZz9SgK_uMJ7JM8LuaoeOn8UtmXxewTd7e-G-ZqU7ObD3avOAo6Lnw6Qh8eJ/s320/IMG_7592.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #800180;">8:53am</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Almost there. Still hoping.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjilPjmqHRGDVMcADInVxxGGss8h2F5quzLNTuoZmyu1qflGO4sY28tnhnod7WderU8SvXTk8n6DOI5lWXzg0yQAxOEsCeUlGHdnYRwmLSO40tiexAHXrCkOoeyZUC5d3KUG9MnOWWd6igLC52nQuOMrPGb8LjCsosZ8ZxD7fjmcQEZBgYhAo6MYGZs/s640/IMG_7620.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="457" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjilPjmqHRGDVMcADInVxxGGss8h2F5quzLNTuoZmyu1qflGO4sY28tnhnod7WderU8SvXTk8n6DOI5lWXzg0yQAxOEsCeUlGHdnYRwmLSO40tiexAHXrCkOoeyZUC5d3KUG9MnOWWd6igLC52nQuOMrPGb8LjCsosZ8ZxD7fjmcQEZBgYhAo6MYGZs/s320/IMG_7620.PNG" width="229" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #800180;">9:38am</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">FINISHED!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifxp9uxB3IKsnyckmXmmcPUieNZ8Pwo5WyijgVltbVJ_vksq-PghDASrnqkxic4hF_9TZvJIKZatnQencSl0GndioL_LBM1bj7-ydqGUkCo8g3qW40q900Ye_hliOTIRld9uDbWjvXKUABR42NSB9Zd4wCB3CTh4VR13ZHF0QZVkLX8fqdCJgor5gU/s4032/IMG_7594.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifxp9uxB3IKsnyckmXmmcPUieNZ8Pwo5WyijgVltbVJ_vksq-PghDASrnqkxic4hF_9TZvJIKZatnQencSl0GndioL_LBM1bj7-ydqGUkCo8g3qW40q900Ye_hliOTIRld9uDbWjvXKUABR42NSB9Zd4wCB3CTh4VR13ZHF0QZVkLX8fqdCJgor5gU/s320/IMG_7594.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #800180;">9:44am</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Post-race with Chloe Pangonis, a super cool chick and now friend that I'm often racing with.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM5PUMe6-lnJbCGNoU7OJ4c1MzMEtt47Lr6wjcdLNJNPhuD6bYwQzplZexwjFj2pamlhiLiyD3ea9RkxWN-x1OnhA9DuHowNESlVq-Oa-ZpDr39fUy_yY0pR7yv6cJEdMsjJkCnubUDCPmied9xs6eWMQ-vNTJVntlGxh_caVlkLHAygBC_3ij5OK6/s2117/IMG_7597.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2117" data-original-width="1060" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM5PUMe6-lnJbCGNoU7OJ4c1MzMEtt47Lr6wjcdLNJNPhuD6bYwQzplZexwjFj2pamlhiLiyD3ea9RkxWN-x1OnhA9DuHowNESlVq-Oa-ZpDr39fUy_yY0pR7yv6cJEdMsjJkCnubUDCPmied9xs6eWMQ-vNTJVntlGxh_caVlkLHAygBC_3ij5OK6/s320/IMG_7597.PNG" width="160" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #800180;">11:02am</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It was a good day. Now coffee</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180;"><br /></span></div><span style="color: #800180;">Listen to this:</span><div><b><span style="color: #b45f06;"><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/3pJ1EjeERFlGkj93KWp2Fi?si=DgPdjmR1T624lbM00kc8nw" target="_blank"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Car Keys</span></a> </span></b><span style="color: #800180;">- Jaguar Sun</span><p></p></div>
<iframe allow="autoplay" frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1190878489&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true" width="100%"></iframe><div style="color: #cccccc; font-family: Interstate, "Lucida Grande", "Lucida Sans Unicode", "Lucida Sans", Garuda, Verdana, Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-weight: 100; line-break: anywhere; overflow: hidden; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap; word-break: normal;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-107247966" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="Born Losers Records">Born Losers Records</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-107247966/jaguar-sun-car-keys" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="Jaguar Sun - Car Keys">Jaguar Sun - Car Keys</a></div>RUNNINGWITHMUSIChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08229272359508846579noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086750970765027099.post-72031337585162951412022-08-25T08:59:00.004-07:002022-08-25T12:07:00.946-07:00RACE REVIEW:FALMOUTH ROAD RACE<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJf_NsAadOQMvFh1tkjB2mwt7jwCt0gP6mwJWiHln88EBxQM--weBfDpT84DO2x3tBiZzo2E9a0DCfj9B24LQ57uz24asKbnnR_7c-bfRp1vg_58U5K7q2knU1yd5yuIeX3iMgAsRt-2OwJ1L4loHcaL04OXKYtFnNNVeI4-ZdEW3_cA6joPJJUvGm/s640/IMG_6822.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJf_NsAadOQMvFh1tkjB2mwt7jwCt0gP6mwJWiHln88EBxQM--weBfDpT84DO2x3tBiZzo2E9a0DCfj9B24LQ57uz24asKbnnR_7c-bfRp1vg_58U5K7q2knU1yd5yuIeX3iMgAsRt-2OwJ1L4loHcaL04OXKYtFnNNVeI4-ZdEW3_cA6joPJJUvGm/w200-h200/IMG_6822.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>It's been a minute since my last post back in late June. I had to wade through Covid in early July and then did a bunch of house hopping between my in-laws' place, a rental house and our own home depending on my kids' schedules and who was doing what. In the midst of all that I was trying to stay on track with Chicago training. So, yea. The blog kind of fell by the wayside. But, last weekend was the <a href="https://falmouthroadrace.com/" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">Falmouth Road Race</span></b></a> and it was, as always, an epic event, so it's the perfect excuse for me to post again. Let's begin, shall we? On Saturday morning I made my way down to the Cape, very slowly because traffic was a beast. But I made it. My buddy, Steve's parents, were welcoming me back to their family place for the evening along with a bunch of other friends of ours who would be racing so our plan was to meet up at the expo so we could all grab our bibs and some lunch before gathering back at the house. Our friend, Frankie, bought strawberries from this cool little farmer's market called Jack and the Beanstalk and they were, hands down, the best we'd ever eaten. That was definitely a highlight of the afternoon. That and the dip that we took in the ocean before dinner which was incredibly refreshing after a long day of travel.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4HqhtVIWSZHurSMmkSGk0Kp_42zdL01e2q-jlGTLf5IptN6SSWvSrVpSSJ3lvs9nVZs3ZtQZZ4zAU-gkCCt__nMakaDW2x9z9tBM29OtS6Jw9xB6Sj3FS9IBx7EFMwbIoZqclvgedknFbVAGOSWIC12En9y9W5Dg2Rr02CEj2geBRo_Ch0r_pHU_K/s1440/696BDC23-9297-485A-8A07-1F619A6FC4A5.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1210" data-original-width="1440" height="269" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4HqhtVIWSZHurSMmkSGk0Kp_42zdL01e2q-jlGTLf5IptN6SSWvSrVpSSJ3lvs9nVZs3ZtQZZ4zAU-gkCCt__nMakaDW2x9z9tBM29OtS6Jw9xB6Sj3FS9IBx7EFMwbIoZqclvgedknFbVAGOSWIC12En9y9W5Dg2Rr02CEj2geBRo_Ch0r_pHU_K/s320/696BDC23-9297-485A-8A07-1F619A6FC4A5.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As usual, I laid out my things to make sure I had it all together and wouldn't have to scramble in the morning. Given that the house was packed, I was sharing my room with a lovely gal named Kerry who I'd never met before this weekend but instantly liked. We unpacked and got ourselves organized before heading down to eat a pasta dinner from Steve's (the restaurant, not McKenna) which Steve's parents generously treated us to. It's legit red carpet treatment when you stay with them. We had a leisurely meal, telling stories and catching up on everyone's lives and right around 9:00pm I started yawning which is the universal symbol for<i> Rebecca needs to put herself to bed now. </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZXQswpv8hsthOf2rCFtZ--bnRsHtCMLiXleuUevX3uFJnqaE1x20P5bjB8YGcpux4pb9fWh_VuKQop1mvdlWvOgoVxOYLpN6nicZUXwBpNXf9ownK2URp34GWz8mW5UOKbi_c7Ln5DDelmPaahu0cM9u1CWhk4xMcmc7XEIhBk5kFAgPX2cqv23Gb/s640/IMG_6795.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZXQswpv8hsthOf2rCFtZ--bnRsHtCMLiXleuUevX3uFJnqaE1x20P5bjB8YGcpux4pb9fWh_VuKQop1mvdlWvOgoVxOYLpN6nicZUXwBpNXf9ownK2URp34GWz8mW5UOKbi_c7Ln5DDelmPaahu0cM9u1CWhk4xMcmc7XEIhBk5kFAgPX2cqv23Gb/s320/IMG_6795.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I planned to get up around 6:00 so I could drink some coffee before we took off for the race around 7:00. Steve's parents don't drink coffee. But, as she did last year, Mrs. McKenna got up at the crack of dawn and made a special trip to Dunkin so we all had coffee when we got up. Okay fine, so I had coffee. Out of the eight of us who were there, I was the only one who wanted/needed a hot latte. For the record, I tried to talk her out of it. She wasn't having it. It was Falmouth weekend. And her guests would get what they wanted. She's the queen.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkzDBbD-eNq5GnBFZ0RplcZeAv-v3slzbCobcHiACmz_QkiAilnIsKuhjURWsDayKQOIROK00erCotpKCooR_C_FpNaOxC_4EmOZ6Kp9ip-1wQ0abdQ7q8J-szKyN6ZHX2vhc0bsaY2OzbEc_R7DrcgLJmBNIRn-7cSfRtfSdlBm4YSuYhktfVVtkQ/s640/IMG_6798.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkzDBbD-eNq5GnBFZ0RplcZeAv-v3slzbCobcHiACmz_QkiAilnIsKuhjURWsDayKQOIROK00erCotpKCooR_C_FpNaOxC_4EmOZ6Kp9ip-1wQ0abdQ7q8J-szKyN6ZHX2vhc0bsaY2OzbEc_R7DrcgLJmBNIRn-7cSfRtfSdlBm4YSuYhktfVVtkQ/s320/IMG_6798.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Right around 7:00 we gathered for our traditional pre-race team photo. I'm not gonna lie, it was already feeling uncomfortably hot and sticky outside. Not ideal. But that's summer in New England. So I kept my mouth shut and smiled for the camera.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiplEOpIcdJZ0WGCgl3Iju9jTjqqgogvHyBRz8KANxZUVwdlR1iw2xvVz0iTn1ehW592TbRZJFsr-fO4vhcW-mzskqftxbgBK8YJj5mYJRuwN7sYBXFTS25cVHqWixV_Lv62943KfdtvNih5raVX9Ox-6yAwht4QX9fy3DXMKRpo_ooiws08Idbpseh/s412/IMG_6801.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="353" data-original-width="412" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiplEOpIcdJZ0WGCgl3Iju9jTjqqgogvHyBRz8KANxZUVwdlR1iw2xvVz0iTn1ehW592TbRZJFsr-fO4vhcW-mzskqftxbgBK8YJj5mYJRuwN7sYBXFTS25cVHqWixV_Lv62943KfdtvNih5raVX9Ox-6yAwht4QX9fy3DXMKRpo_ooiws08Idbpseh/s320/IMG_6801.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As he'd done last year, Steve's cousin took us over to the race start by boat. It's such a cool way to get over there. For a few minutes I just relaxed and enjoyed the ride. It was the perfect mindset to be in right before a big effort. When the boat docked I had a brief moment when I didn't really want to get off but I snapped out of that and got my act together. Ready or not. It was go time. Again, so nice of Steve's cousin to wake up early and taxi us over. They really make this a total family affair and they all lean in as far as favors go.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg9L8gWGwqHqhBpYMEKBtyqEr0t2kVNT4X32HL7KdLu7DlNDLkSbXm5SCAL01O6qKZHI2uqQSKFNSniXpRI8_FaJVc8-yhXPtJClQgSrmqa291kl3YGwijUel2RYvVAXPcQz8cnva4HOyTRUj0lXHw9RS6oLoVfGv1dTg_gMhOMAgQNnbzE-XEAEKT/s640/IMG_6803.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg9L8gWGwqHqhBpYMEKBtyqEr0t2kVNT4X32HL7KdLu7DlNDLkSbXm5SCAL01O6qKZHI2uqQSKFNSniXpRI8_FaJVc8-yhXPtJClQgSrmqa291kl3YGwijUel2RYvVAXPcQz8cnva4HOyTRUj0lXHw9RS6oLoVfGv1dTg_gMhOMAgQNnbzE-XEAEKT/s320/IMG_6803.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We got over to the bus drop off and walked to the elite tent where Kerry was already warming up. Because she's wicked fast and had an elite bib. So freaking badass. Frankie, Kerry and I took off for some easy warmup miles. Mmm. Well, they weren't that "easy" per se. Frankie, who is also lightening fast and Kerry chit chatted at 7:45 pace as I ran behind them breathing like a wild animal but trying to hide that I was kind of dying. Lesson learned. I love them both but I won't be warming up with them again next year. Mike and Steve warmed up separately at 10min pace. That's my jam and it was noted for next year.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLH7Ysw3wcQ-8PF_FYBua6JXbiEzf_GCFIqI_VwBxd0vsYUJlZDYxa3iEN6TYlBGVqwkk37X0pAgDWG5MbGH-PraOYiXavG8MCut5VDKnjuZXqTCMVo7lUebaAdv2YdlLEBDZLJk3WyoFazza3VFBJKAGYtk7NVvfze4SXt4wkYnLoIby_kU7vNvwO/s640/IMG_6805.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLH7Ysw3wcQ-8PF_FYBua6JXbiEzf_GCFIqI_VwBxd0vsYUJlZDYxa3iEN6TYlBGVqwkk37X0pAgDWG5MbGH-PraOYiXavG8MCut5VDKnjuZXqTCMVo7lUebaAdv2YdlLEBDZLJk3WyoFazza3VFBJKAGYtk7NVvfze4SXt4wkYnLoIby_kU7vNvwO/s320/IMG_6805.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">THE RACE:</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Miles 1-3 (6:08, 6:19, 6:18)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mike, Frankie and I had done quite a bit of training together this past July because we were all on the Cape and prepping for a fall marathon. That was awesome. Mike had agreed to work with me for Falmouth as my goal pace was around 6:15 and he was psyched to shoot for that as well. Go team. So we all lined up together and my race plan was just to sit right behind Mike for as long as I could. Pretty simple, really. We cruised through mile one without any issues, a little faster than planned but it happens. The first two miles are rolling hills and combined with the heat by mile two I was feeling it. We were still doing okay for most of mile 2 but by mile 3 my body was not having it and I had to let Mike go. That or drop out because I was next-level hurting and my brain was like....um, can we be done now? Mike turned back a few times but could tell I was consciously switching gears, so I just re-settled myself into a more manageable pace and held on for dear life.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS4ydysr4JQn5MEGE8Xg1nZSnboyG1ESGWWoCpfPeGvVF8jWLg7avQMX_BiB2Kgm_m7VV8AdEKwqEs2ZYNQzoaypu-rhyArQ7fmOS4XZQD0nIp0SXj9gLvwwGTV6PmIHIx_ETheCEAAEsvkjVrXkehJVAIYFMRIVflqB3rM5eAJu95VB-lQmHMt6HL/s999/E6E5A6B0-295E-4C6C-8CF2-8E7E78D67169.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="999" data-original-width="799" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS4ydysr4JQn5MEGE8Xg1nZSnboyG1ESGWWoCpfPeGvVF8jWLg7avQMX_BiB2Kgm_m7VV8AdEKwqEs2ZYNQzoaypu-rhyArQ7fmOS4XZQD0nIp0SXj9gLvwwGTV6PmIHIx_ETheCEAAEsvkjVrXkehJVAIYFMRIVflqB3rM5eAJu95VB-lQmHMt6HL/s320/E6E5A6B0-295E-4C6C-8CF2-8E7E78D67169.JPG" width="256" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">MILES 3-6 (6:29, 6:30, 6:35)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I was now deep in the pain cave and had a feeling that I would not be seeing the light until I was done. Which is pretty freaking daunting when you're only at mile 3 of a 7 mile race. I stopped looking at my watch because, honestly, what was the point? It was just bite down and give it what I could and while I didn't drop off too much it felt like I was crawling through these next few miles. It didn't help that while the course through this section is flat it is totally exposed to the sun and it feels like you are literally in a frying pan as you work through it. Last year I didn't wear a hat or sunglasses and was bummed that I hadn't so this year I started with glasses. But by three miles in they were so fogged over I had to take them off and carry them until mile 5 at which point I threw them at the McKenna's and hoped they'd find them.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgovzAeLPGfmP-h8P1EfrEAMsXW8VbuwT1AFtw0ngHxggiiA99cKlDqNoQaF36_SivGsL_eHFh8jNDPDeMrfjGVQa2qGs0wBeEskLhNfYZ-MpefQc2h_hFqE1oVtZ9w9LYtTXT4yebn-qh1SP_ibS36ThK_qIbj56u01ePqOeUdYaHQLJkWrEy2LPu/s477/0050.wp.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="477" data-original-width="323" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgovzAeLPGfmP-h8P1EfrEAMsXW8VbuwT1AFtw0ngHxggiiA99cKlDqNoQaF36_SivGsL_eHFh8jNDPDeMrfjGVQa2qGs0wBeEskLhNfYZ-MpefQc2h_hFqE1oVtZ9w9LYtTXT4yebn-qh1SP_ibS36ThK_qIbj56u01ePqOeUdYaHQLJkWrEy2LPu/w271-h400/0050.wp.jpg" width="271" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So, yea, this part was kind of a death march. I did some serious questioning of my running hobby during this 25 minute stretch. Note the expression above. Pretty much says it all. Seeing the McKennas and their whole family at mile 5 was really helpful. I also saw two of my campers, Grace and Lexie, who'd been in my cabin at Camp Foss the week before and that was huge; a big mental boost. Two miles to go after that. I could hold on. It wasn't going to be pretty. But I could finish.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMLJA3-zUMksMtt0biqU3ZL0VCE718UgtO6D3ViCwcdpAZp3VuzD8WRLks0kr6-gU3eAl85NFkU_5JjEEug3oGBFqnM2t_wsSONJ8oF3YG4kMP-xn6kxw0IrRD1hzxlSv8RYlZwfJ6yEbimGzym1cMMcjDSN4eQqvLvP2lAX1JhOkPGQmfZvgwxhmS/s1000/32D5D8C7-D185-4F41-9B9A-AE774EFA3E71.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMLJA3-zUMksMtt0biqU3ZL0VCE718UgtO6D3ViCwcdpAZp3VuzD8WRLks0kr6-gU3eAl85NFkU_5JjEEug3oGBFqnM2t_wsSONJ8oF3YG4kMP-xn6kxw0IrRD1hzxlSv8RYlZwfJ6yEbimGzym1cMMcjDSN4eQqvLvP2lAX1JhOkPGQmfZvgwxhmS/s320/32D5D8C7-D185-4F41-9B9A-AE774EFA3E71.JPG" width="256" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">MILE 7: 6:29</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Finally I got to mile 7 which is straight uphill for pretty much the entire mile. I picked my head up and saw the photographers so I made a point to smile; partly to trick myself into believing I was having a good time and partly because I thought it would be funny to have a photo of me smiling despite the absolutely brutal situation I was in. Getting to the top of this hill is a feat in and of itself. And, it wasn't pretty. But once you're up and over you just have the down and you're done. Sort of. I mean, you can't really see the finish from the top but you know it's there and that's just enough. And that, my friends, was a wrap. I finished in 45:06 and I ran it the hard way. The wheels didn't completely fall off but they sure as hell wobbled for a bit in the middle. It’s funny, we (meaning, runners) know it's hard to race at goal pace when the weather is working against us and yet, more often than not, we (or, I) try anyway. I guess it works for some. It didn't really pan out for me. But I was still really proud of the effort. I managed to win my age group (45-49) and place 3rd in the Masters category (40+) but I was most excited about the fact that I'd been the 35th woman across the line out of 4,911 total. On a day like this one, it's not all about skill. It's also about playing it smart and adjusting as needed and I'd done that pretty well. So for that I was pleased.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH80OvDgM6hXb58NDqjQnZi2kAoKUhyHbCHy7Udm1m0yoSauuvc03LsUwIMcCkLj74Eje0GSUrRYEAGUi3gFEI5jqfP_UH9is45ARL8sVRncK6Np7AnWv0nqjzXE-njVzqeORMQ9nkPYMFHLniVYCo_wljQajFMHyaN8ph2LVjb_1llIUQOhx9RfgG/s640/7F361876-17C1-45B8-9362-E727F07E8186.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="554" data-original-width="640" height="277" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH80OvDgM6hXb58NDqjQnZi2kAoKUhyHbCHy7Udm1m0yoSauuvc03LsUwIMcCkLj74Eje0GSUrRYEAGUi3gFEI5jqfP_UH9is45ARL8sVRncK6Np7AnWv0nqjzXE-njVzqeORMQ9nkPYMFHLniVYCo_wljQajFMHyaN8ph2LVjb_1llIUQOhx9RfgG/s320/7F361876-17C1-45B8-9362-E727F07E8186.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It's my second year running Falmouth. Everything about the weekend is so much fun. The race itself kind of sucks but you just love to hate it. It's part of the package. You don't get the ocean swim and time with friends or the Hoodsies ice cream cups without working for it. It's all or nothing. And when it rolls around next year I will undoubtedly be all in. Now back to my regularly scheduled program of Chicago marathon training. Bring it on fall. I'm ready for you.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAJR4_IRlX1w3sOz4IqDEoPHM9lyyj1VFIaCD-6oZi3RIA2aAu5VIpyrC0FZ4_RyknX8ivQcLHnA_qQCrEde6FNQ-T_CRfjEC4SVeiZi9vKFYd4Wl2EFKK3_HNTS3pl8Ipsfwm97u_nfkthNlcpn1Y1KBwcrHV4JxL_MpoJMAHnPd1WWBAwspIfs2j/s640/IMG_9084.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="538" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAJR4_IRlX1w3sOz4IqDEoPHM9lyyj1VFIaCD-6oZi3RIA2aAu5VIpyrC0FZ4_RyknX8ivQcLHnA_qQCrEde6FNQ-T_CRfjEC4SVeiZi9vKFYd4Wl2EFKK3_HNTS3pl8Ipsfwm97u_nfkthNlcpn1Y1KBwcrHV4JxL_MpoJMAHnPd1WWBAwspIfs2j/s320/IMG_9084.jpg" width="269" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Listen to this:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/07IAGsfYqS8sZSECzK1hZK?si=UaQ1kqzIRfy24HVlgonWmA" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">Burning</span></b></a> - Yeah Yeah Yeahs</span></div></div><p></p>
<iframe allow="autoplay" frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1265013703&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true" width="100%"></iframe><div style="color: #cccccc; font-family: Interstate, "Lucida Grande", "Lucida Sans Unicode", "Lucida Sans", Garuda, Verdana, Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-weight: 100; line-break: anywhere; overflow: hidden; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap; word-break: normal;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/yeah-yeah-yeahs-official" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="Yeah Yeah Yeahs">Yeah Yeah Yeahs</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/yeah-yeah-yeahs-official/burning" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="Burning">Burning</a></div>RUNNINGWITHMUSIChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08229272359508846579noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086750970765027099.post-23648032702134944762022-06-29T08:24:00.008-07:002022-06-29T09:50:35.012-07:00RACE REVIEW:BAA 10K<div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180;"><i>"we are all made for every</i><i> moment we encounter. </i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180;"><i>whether the moment </i><i>makes us </i><i>or we make the moment. </i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180;"><i>whether </i><i>we are helpless </i><i>in it </i><i>or on top of it, </i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180;"><i>the predator </i><i>or the prey. </i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180;"><i>we are made for </i><i>that moment."</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">~ Matthew McConaughey, 'Greenlights'</span></div></div><p>Last week we took the Lex kids to Oregon to compete at <a href="http://www.lexxctf.com/recap-out-2022-non.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>Nike Outdoor Nationals</b></span></a>. We were out there for almost a week and it was an absolutely epic trip; mainly because every single one of them competed to the best of their ability and/or beyond. Which is all you can hope for as a coach. That and that the kids have fun while they're doing it, which I think I can safely say they all did.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvA91Q2wLAHQg8pzaIPgsV8Di-I2RRi12FUHTi1h2HvkpFXtOaIAUCiVFhgj1h953-7l7v4-eDMB6uvcqiaiznBJKiqRGRAWVBAltdHuLtOt7Fz8BU8lBeP1l4wTQemJnlgCjCcvEJ2IybjwA82Fse82PXCaKcdvKs22g6J5JoF-JLNNhtGZ5tOAo9/s720/0.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvA91Q2wLAHQg8pzaIPgsV8Di-I2RRi12FUHTi1h2HvkpFXtOaIAUCiVFhgj1h953-7l7v4-eDMB6uvcqiaiznBJKiqRGRAWVBAltdHuLtOt7Fz8BU8lBeP1l4wTQemJnlgCjCcvEJ2IybjwA82Fse82PXCaKcdvKs22g6J5JoF-JLNNhtGZ5tOAo9/s320/0.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>We flew home on the redeye this past Monday and I promptly went to bed for 48 hours to catch up on all the sleep I'd lost over the past five days. Just kidding. I went for a run and to the grocery store and then tried to keep myself busy so I could stay awake until 8pm. For real, though, I haven't been that tired in quite some time and by Tuesday I was feeling it. My running was garbage. I was shuffling along with heavy legs and even heavier lids. Normally, this isn't a big deal. I just take a week to bounce back and then jump back into my training full speed. But I didn't have that luxury because I was signed up for the <a href="https://www.baa.org/races/baa-10k" target="_blank"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>BAA 10K</b></span></a> on Sunday and I intended to race regardless of how I felt. Or, at least, I thought I did. By Saturday, I wasn't so sure. I reached out to my coach, Ruben, and let him know that I'd been having a tough week. Maybe it was because I hadn't been able to recover post Oregon, or maybe because I hadn't fully recovered from my entire, very long and intense spring track season in general or maybe it was because I'm 47 and I'm freaking tired. Regardless, Ruben was concerned and wondered if perhaps I should bail all together given the situation but that was not an option. I was signed up. I'd paid. I was racing. And he understood. So we came up with a new race plan with a pace strategy that would likely make for a more successful race and while I was bummed because I'd hoped to run hard and test my fitness, I was also relieved as the pressure to perform was not quite as high anymore. As always, I laid out my kit and went to bed very early (yes, even earlier than usual) knowing that one more sleep could only do my head and body good. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9VgpPbdB9o-T5L8mtpxRuPUGjHzu4oG9qZ-fCSeVqBdlwz1dW8ZjqUmkKK9Hquc3Ur8FcO4KWA9j5dK5WMS9DyqiRA8WtFR_OXXQFF6UleU9BZG2p7SdNcG5bHulY4JKGzLBTrv8ARckVhVsXLBSiMQMGi9Me3gkhAd9NeH4NDFxHKRSfwUN8U1Gz/s640/19C763C2-F6B1-44C8-995C-C27C4F40AA01.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="512" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9VgpPbdB9o-T5L8mtpxRuPUGjHzu4oG9qZ-fCSeVqBdlwz1dW8ZjqUmkKK9Hquc3Ur8FcO4KWA9j5dK5WMS9DyqiRA8WtFR_OXXQFF6UleU9BZG2p7SdNcG5bHulY4JKGzLBTrv8ARckVhVsXLBSiMQMGi9Me3gkhAd9NeH4NDFxHKRSfwUN8U1Gz/s320/19C763C2-F6B1-44C8-995C-C27C4F40AA01.JPG" width="256" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Even though it was late June, typical summer weather hadn't really hit us yet in the Boston area. Until Sunday. Obvs. At 6:00am it was already nice and warm out and just a bit sticky. I still sat outside and enjoyed my coffee as usual. It was a lovely, quiet moment to myself. My entire family, including the dogs, were scattered about in various other places and I'd just made a quick, solo trip home for this race. It was very weird to be alone in my house. Never happens. Not gonna lie, kind of nice.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWo4Q5JtHjB-AD7nwK-c4_gVz1LRbXw6DNEb2i6nbBmWyE2aQtF6Ph2_WKob2xBbLl_NTF-XyTu62JaFFCh4txT6SdcbOPcdU_zHirTPbt4FAgLEdOwk2sOnmFCA7nwOrohBI1FWCn7dSMEOsmdEAYgBZ8lIajzXyss5iuN2WTRUvLavRyw3CRzTWX/s640/IMG_5826.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWo4Q5JtHjB-AD7nwK-c4_gVz1LRbXw6DNEb2i6nbBmWyE2aQtF6Ph2_WKob2xBbLl_NTF-XyTu62JaFFCh4txT6SdcbOPcdU_zHirTPbt4FAgLEdOwk2sOnmFCA7nwOrohBI1FWCn7dSMEOsmdEAYgBZ8lIajzXyss5iuN2WTRUvLavRyw3CRzTWX/s320/IMG_5826.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I left home around 6:30, zipped into Boston easily and found parking without any issues because it was early Sunday morning and the city was still asleep. Added bonus? No meters on Sunday. Love that for me. I walked over to the Common and met up with Ruben. I've actually been woking with him for a while now but we'd never met in person before Sunday so it was nice to put a face to the name. We talked a little bit more about the race and how I should try manage it given how tired and off I'd been. His main advice to me was to welcome the pain in. Right, I thought. I mean, the pain was coming no matter what. Might as well invite it in. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifMzqYyixDqSTqNAmcuiqTpNh2Pfk8KR5mV1hLlfXa7DQrlwwE0ww3zvyhVUSGJyeNyOOqEt-VhckqpizyNXBzuJJguVp6cXu1X3u4QhGMLtE6KoJeg6tLCys4SKGIEj-646WZVsKK4XD7Of0dt0bdEC0b08UsTb_sT6j5aNUzMSoGfgnyy6VuMp0C/s640/IMG_5831.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifMzqYyixDqSTqNAmcuiqTpNh2Pfk8KR5mV1hLlfXa7DQrlwwE0ww3zvyhVUSGJyeNyOOqEt-VhckqpizyNXBzuJJguVp6cXu1X3u4QhGMLtE6KoJeg6tLCys4SKGIEj-646WZVsKK4XD7Of0dt0bdEC0b08UsTb_sT6j5aNUzMSoGfgnyy6VuMp0C/s320/IMG_5831.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I thanked him for his words of wisdom and took off for my warmup, not that I needed much as it was now in the 70s and the sun was starting to do its thing. No complaints, I thought to myself. Welcome the pain. Let's go. I stopped by my car and changed shoes and then made my way over to the start area to do some final dynamics and strides. Which didn't really go as planned. I did my dynamics as I waited in the very long line for the bathroom and then because that had taken forever there would be no strides. I needed to bust a move over to my corral or I'd be stuck in a spot that I didn't want to be in for the start. Oh well. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPvZU1MwBuEViKmJoz8TFgfRUTPhI8J3nmkuB2vq_ptA_Nb6Da80JIelVv2irx5qEWadklSNWvJNJ-hMaPTO6vcFv7RTBOv_OaZtE25xhElcdaR404sIfWY_2WHzbCXhwG6aDely7OAraSuN8W8BdOeyMjQwCkHV1SkxvvaAaCAFyLuQiQLKGod21C/s640/IMG_5832.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPvZU1MwBuEViKmJoz8TFgfRUTPhI8J3nmkuB2vq_ptA_Nb6Da80JIelVv2irx5qEWadklSNWvJNJ-hMaPTO6vcFv7RTBOv_OaZtE25xhElcdaR404sIfWY_2WHzbCXhwG6aDely7OAraSuN8W8BdOeyMjQwCkHV1SkxvvaAaCAFyLuQiQLKGod21C/s320/IMG_5832.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>THE RACE </b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Miles 1-6.2: 6:07, 6:14, 6:12, 6:07, 6:13, 6:15, 5:48</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">There were over 5,000 people racing and not surprisingly the start area was pretty tight. Shoulders were bumping and people were pushing a little to find a place where they felt comfortable. Normally this isn't a big deal but it's been so long since I've stood in a crowd this big that it was a little overwhelming. I just tucked in and tried to keep to myself. And sweated. Already lots of sweating by the time we got going. The race began at 8:00am but the elite men went first followed by the elite women and the para athletes so we didn't actually cross the start mat until seven minutes after eight. It doesn't seem like a lot of time but when your squished in with thousands of hot and anxious runners the minutes go by real slow. Finally, they sent us off and I followed the crowds out of the Common and onto Commonwealth. Mile one came up faster than I anticipated. I looked at my watch and saw 6:07. That was not in line with the plan Ruben and I had discussed. Not even close. But instead of freaking out or making a major change I made the conscious decision to throw my plan out the window and let it ride.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglwZH6iThXasJmkrwFMXWrMKsgJW2yUIv3m4HfmH-VOzAOWDutKpQB8IMJaxVm1QBBdgb408aVnmyvdpecNjhVIvTcSllPvbfbydtomYQ-XmqWgpA8tgtnMx_T2b_twtDiKCYvCbqwTOi38PXX976m_QtcD6fOWPB9JGQUrDgCXWqZ-wUQmDT9ODXB/s444/IMG_5846.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="444" data-original-width="379" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglwZH6iThXasJmkrwFMXWrMKsgJW2yUIv3m4HfmH-VOzAOWDutKpQB8IMJaxVm1QBBdgb408aVnmyvdpecNjhVIvTcSllPvbfbydtomYQ-XmqWgpA8tgtnMx_T2b_twtDiKCYvCbqwTOi38PXX976m_QtcD6fOWPB9JGQUrDgCXWqZ-wUQmDT9ODXB/s320/IMG_5846.JPG" width="273" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">You can see that we had some shade on our way out. That was huge. I did my best to stay relaxed for these first two miles knowing that three through six were going to be in full sun. As we headed out to the turnaround we started to see the pros coming at us in the other direction. Which was awesome. It's just so inspiring to see these incredible athletes flying by, doing what they do best. I also saw and yelled for Ruben who happens to be very, <i>very</i> fast. It was a perfect distraction to get to mile three at which point I turned around and headed back myself. So, three more miles. I was hurting now. And the heat was kicking in. But I was also kind of okay; my breathing was relatively controlled and my legs were working with me which is not what I'd expected. As far as inviting the pain in, yea, the pain was now in the house. Actually, it kind of felt like the pain had settled nicely onto my couch and thrown on a movie. It clearly wasn't going anywhere. So I just moved over and gave it some room. Lots of room.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgusODHXQM1TaSYpoO9YWiQGWSRAjpjKZdqYgvawvLioqKh5QNuXbVxNs0tbFNiHfwzUKkvVp4kFQLKeeTCLsvX77lzzoveMwLAKcagu0GO8wcFDRENjpSNCK3VVKphECFWu30IPigG-ogkyqYKZTmkHadsu82beQOwV75kC79f6PqFeJGHXMVzZCme/s453/IMG_5856.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="453" data-original-width="334" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgusODHXQM1TaSYpoO9YWiQGWSRAjpjKZdqYgvawvLioqKh5QNuXbVxNs0tbFNiHfwzUKkvVp4kFQLKeeTCLsvX77lzzoveMwLAKcagu0GO8wcFDRENjpSNCK3VVKphECFWu30IPigG-ogkyqYKZTmkHadsu82beQOwV75kC79f6PqFeJGHXMVzZCme/s320/IMG_5856.JPG" width="236" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The guy behind me, I would later learn, is also named Ruben. Unbeknownst to me he had decided that my pace was working well for him and that he'd stay with me for the remainder of the race. Which is why he is in every single photo with me. But, it's all good. We connected afterwards and he thanked me for being his rabbit. It's a role I rarely take on as more often than not I'm using others to pace me so I was happy this worked out for him.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXOvSHQxiwemxstz7NqCqyJI2iKI-kV_VJdy6cY1KwL3DSA98WqbYU9o3iyBKjIEAKqJBtax57g7juOmS1gruwpuOXMyf_V1pj2V7PtgMtrssqMoKG80Gmj7qPtO-54561lGPVqQZDBGjx1tg4EmL-OLH8S1J2iT6kcZ9erbMFS7zw_azmQDksAJFp/s640/IMG_5855.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="428" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXOvSHQxiwemxstz7NqCqyJI2iKI-kV_VJdy6cY1KwL3DSA98WqbYU9o3iyBKjIEAKqJBtax57g7juOmS1gruwpuOXMyf_V1pj2V7PtgMtrssqMoKG80Gmj7qPtO-54561lGPVqQZDBGjx1tg4EmL-OLH8S1J2iT6kcZ9erbMFS7zw_azmQDksAJFp/s320/IMG_5855.JPG" width="214" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When you're running a 10k at a hard effort in the sun and you get to mile 5, 1.2 more miles feels stupid long. On this final stretch you can see the turn for the finish but it's like a mirage. It's there but it's not really there. The pain train was in full effect at this point. I was digging deep and hoping I didn't toss my cookies as we made the final push. When you're running a 10k at a hard effort in the sun and you get to mile 6, .2 miles also feels stupid long. But there it was. The finish line. And I could see the clock. The time was 38 minutes and change. And, college running aside, I have never run a 10k under 40 minutes. So I freaking threw down and gave it every thing I had which was good for 38:49; about a 3 minute personal best. EFF. YES. And HOLY. HELL.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhzUh-a9hzz9nW_0Gstv1B5Sykywu8tEXZ_uEaQ5WEBMd4jBFwkR6qHMgsq2-gPNwKpYoIZrj71wUA6s5T3Ih83uyFTHoimsAW_s0dnGXv7RdJUR_X4GkI_JhZz6aruutHpIhhTeNtK-nLmaVQ4rMlNGOPH3hpKhn4rMjb-9xoHFOZQlYpc6gqwNN4/s442/IMG_5848.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="442" data-original-width="408" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhzUh-a9hzz9nW_0Gstv1B5Sykywu8tEXZ_uEaQ5WEBMd4jBFwkR6qHMgsq2-gPNwKpYoIZrj71wUA6s5T3Ih83uyFTHoimsAW_s0dnGXv7RdJUR_X4GkI_JhZz6aruutHpIhhTeNtK-nLmaVQ4rMlNGOPH3hpKhn4rMjb-9xoHFOZQlYpc6gqwNN4/s320/IMG_5848.JPG" width="295" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">What a trip. I was toast. And I was elated. But mainly toast. And it was worth every painful second. I am constantly telling my Lex athletes that the well runs deep as far as training goes. That you can show up for a practice or race and feel tired or out of sorts but still have a decent day because there is a lot of good work in there waiting to be tapped. I tell them this all the time. But I don't always tell myself when I'm lining up and I feel like shit and I think I'm going to have a bad day. Which makes no sense. Why wouldn't I practice what I preach? After this race, I will never doubt again. Trust the training. Trust myself. Tap the well. It's all in there. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyDXJXspPRKPuqBnrXm83GVLK0XVrCf4SRmnbkPwJLdUhlWUKNTgr6lKJXW5mNTvMUNveMvp6zMOHbtMqOtJaSD-c8F-TaP15ORBgNrToSVo6aPBYv2lP4zOc7_4jeURHq8NEzipfsHTTXX89GQdbzO0e8uHFoL9RMZRTMLvznU4eleciC1dDBm_JM/s573/0-1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="573" data-original-width="573" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyDXJXspPRKPuqBnrXm83GVLK0XVrCf4SRmnbkPwJLdUhlWUKNTgr6lKJXW5mNTvMUNveMvp6zMOHbtMqOtJaSD-c8F-TaP15ORBgNrToSVo6aPBYv2lP4zOc7_4jeURHq8NEzipfsHTTXX89GQdbzO0e8uHFoL9RMZRTMLvznU4eleciC1dDBm_JM/s320/0-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Once I'd gotten some water and some very hot Gatorade I took some time to run around and find all my friends who I knew where at this race with me. I cooled down with Brian (bottom right) a good friend of mine for a few years now. I caught up with Haley (top right) a former Lex athlete who has since graduated from college and is working in MA. (oof, I'm old). I exchanged hugs and congrats with Amy (bottom center) a dear friend and occasional training buddy. I fought my way over to the main stage so I could say hi to Allie (lower left) who was on the mic and always puts in me in a good mood because she's just so full of positive energy and love. And last, I tracked down Lauren (top right), my teammate, friend and running partner who I'm about start seeing a lot more of next month as we both dive into fall marathon training. THIS. This is what it's all about. The run community is amazing. I love the racing. I love pushing my limits. The good, the bad, the ugly; all of it. I'm in. But I love these people and the run vibe in general, the most. The friends I've made through running are my other family. And race time and place aside, they are the main reason I keep coming back for more.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtBQ2MmvD0ydPsSpkNfQjw69BvgXiF6i71qwKNvwOMMMru-p6SVK1ZHRsJXZC2o5eua2vtPr1VctoUjNvgPcxxw7WiGQygcRHONySU0hR9ZwjVCltP6us3Ew2HHhdsYjBJlko7usqVHGJaft7ziXSE1Ceqix8kb-JPVCQkPyhC2Lnsj8qrRny3cAbp/s640/IMG_5854.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtBQ2MmvD0ydPsSpkNfQjw69BvgXiF6i71qwKNvwOMMMru-p6SVK1ZHRsJXZC2o5eua2vtPr1VctoUjNvgPcxxw7WiGQygcRHONySU0hR9ZwjVCltP6us3Ew2HHhdsYjBJlko7usqVHGJaft7ziXSE1Ceqix8kb-JPVCQkPyhC2Lnsj8qrRny3cAbp/s320/IMG_5854.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Quick note to close things out. And it sounds braggy. So I'm sorry. But it's important. Since turning 47, I have PR'd in every distance I've run from the mile to the marathon. When I turned 40 I thought my window of opportunity to run fast and improve would start closing pretty rapidly. Not so. Not even close. Who knows what I have left but that door is still wide open. And pain? He, she, it...doesn't matter. They're not so bad. I think we're gonna be friends for just a little while longer. Turns out we like the same movies. Up next, Falmouth. Let's goooooo.</div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Listen to this:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/4boDLotD4BHuMM6d0SpWts?si=yPl9U53PRHCQOCgPqI_MPg" target="_blank"><span style="color: #800180;">Ain't Ready</span></a> -<span style="color: #b45f06;"> Santigold</span></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><p></p>
<iframe allow="autoplay" frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1275766981&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true" width="100%"></iframe><div style="color: #cccccc; font-family: Interstate, "Lucida Grande", "Lucida Sans Unicode", "Lucida Sans", Garuda, Verdana, Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-weight: 100; line-break: anywhere; overflow: hidden; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap; word-break: normal;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/santigold" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="Santigold">Santigold</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/santigold/aint-ready" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="Ain’t Ready">Ain’t Ready</a></div>RUNNINGWITHMUSIChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08229272359508846579noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086750970765027099.post-5632202225067500902022-06-15T11:03:00.006-07:002022-06-15T11:12:02.782-07:00RUNNING IN NH: A TOP 10 LIST<div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;"> "Spitting off the edge of the world</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">Winds from the sky</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">Never had no chance</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">Will watch us rise"</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">'Spitting of the Edge of the World', Yeah, Yeah, Yeahs</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY5YFWw8vuH-qokgEw9yXqk4pZ5YzAYtv-c1gpAIo-47E79xH4vY-Yt9AK9qLNSEfTzj2bTA5kPaSKyLj5R5KhtgRhswIW2-WjzdwBaJDntlhNcB59p02gdKQWqlV0vowXCwZDo9BuCagk34ZOD5rpkLj1ieNlZxRmMOo8V9v6R0rBYTuTYoBTzxsM/s2504/IMG_5485.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2504" data-original-width="2300" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY5YFWw8vuH-qokgEw9yXqk4pZ5YzAYtv-c1gpAIo-47E79xH4vY-Yt9AK9qLNSEfTzj2bTA5kPaSKyLj5R5KhtgRhswIW2-WjzdwBaJDntlhNcB59p02gdKQWqlV0vowXCwZDo9BuCagk34ZOD5rpkLj1ieNlZxRmMOo8V9v6R0rBYTuTYoBTzxsM/s320/IMG_5485.JPG" width="294" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Our family has a place up in Sugar Hill, NH. It's a small, quiet town; population 577 back in 2019 and that's the latest count I could dig up. It's notably busier in the winter (skiing) and summer (hiking) but during the shoulder seasons? Crickets. And we love it. This past Sunday I did a long run out on the mountain roads and trails near our cabin. It was an absolutely perfect day; crisp, clear and a little cool and I could think of nowhere that I would have rather been. As I ran, I thought about running up in NH, or any remote area for that matter, versus running back at home in the Boston area. Obviously they are very different and they both have pros and cons, but I have to say I might enjoy the NH running a bit more. Not that I'm complaining about running in the city. I'm happy running anywhere, really. But there are some key things about running in NH that make the experience such a treat for me and since I was out there for over two hours I made a mental note of each one which I ultimately decided would be fun to share. Maybe you have a favorite place to run that's different from home so you can relate. And maybe you don't but this post makes you want to make a trip up to NH or some other far away place to experience it for yourself, which I highly recommend. And if neither of these apply, well, that's okay, too. Sit back, relax and enjoy some NH photos. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">WHY I LOVE RUNNING IN NH: </span><span style="color: #800180;">A TOP 10 LIST</span></span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnupbOwz3FMrNVY5Kc1RH2awN0oSM1o1lD7xWS53niBnZM9z3krmM1T-37Kg660VXbaJu8oNcCaL1KYqA6x9WnjCnyLCNGtk52XfX3bfj9YFmxzAww3rJjxT9-TIzJUXcqAwMwrY9huBu5wvM_M8zfzvRGBZEllLfmJ3CDkID_qL-MZAoHhtOwY2h1/s4032/IMG_5455.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnupbOwz3FMrNVY5Kc1RH2awN0oSM1o1lD7xWS53niBnZM9z3krmM1T-37Kg660VXbaJu8oNcCaL1KYqA6x9WnjCnyLCNGtk52XfX3bfj9YFmxzAww3rJjxT9-TIzJUXcqAwMwrY9huBu5wvM_M8zfzvRGBZEllLfmJ3CDkID_qL-MZAoHhtOwY2h1/s320/IMG_5455.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1. First and foremost, the views from almost every location are stunning and more often than not they stop me in my tracks. Pun intended.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2. The drivers are nice. For real. All of them. Even the truckers. And they tend to move far over to the other side of the road as they go by nodding or waving as they pass. It's lovely.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">3. Hills are more like mountains and they are everywhere. So basically, every run has the added bonus of a strength workout within it. Can't beat that.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdU2lowT_59y_KhBCLSQ5Cb4yZdcylU6CRvXJfvuToEZj2xsD5UhptUqnV6FeORoUSNP2c66DreKg10uPpCbV-Cy_-R5BzUlTM24fpWP5r_EEj3J6sPRxuJqWqVtvrYwn1hFqLCsovX_VVSXvj-ZLr4GRxtiU_vPBwDFJ8BCqdNFPJHqrPySYXYbVi/s4032/IMG_5459.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdU2lowT_59y_KhBCLSQ5Cb4yZdcylU6CRvXJfvuToEZj2xsD5UhptUqnV6FeORoUSNP2c66DreKg10uPpCbV-Cy_-R5BzUlTM24fpWP5r_EEj3J6sPRxuJqWqVtvrYwn1hFqLCsovX_VVSXvj-ZLr4GRxtiU_vPBwDFJ8BCqdNFPJHqrPySYXYbVi/s320/IMG_5459.JPG" width="240" /></a></div></div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">4. Nature is also everywhere. Literally. So if nature calls, you're good to go.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">5. In Sugar Hill, and likely in many other small towns, there is a single traffic light. So, there is little, if any, stopping mid-run for anything other than bears or skunks. Which you don't really even stop for, you just change directions.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">6. There is some form of water.... lake, creek, river, pond.... along every route. Thus a mid-run splash on the face or a post-run soak is always an option.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ-FrAM3RDl0Yzc8cekWh_h8MQZzWiKdKxhJ3LBxN2jhjXHVX9t6Dvib7_30IrH2-V8Q0d-C00FpMG-xQvPv2bCTOfl-boWE0T0E6YhdKC4PYlRjW8B4DThb03HMf0bFPRC2OBFSc9mXmaoRDsCmwkdcgnb-gAuo-As2UQhYfaEP5vsW8jebdtiu6T/s4032/IMG_0847.JPEG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ-FrAM3RDl0Yzc8cekWh_h8MQZzWiKdKxhJ3LBxN2jhjXHVX9t6Dvib7_30IrH2-V8Q0d-C00FpMG-xQvPv2bCTOfl-boWE0T0E6YhdKC4PYlRjW8B4DThb03HMf0bFPRC2OBFSc9mXmaoRDsCmwkdcgnb-gAuo-As2UQhYfaEP5vsW8jebdtiu6T/s320/IMG_0847.JPEG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">7. There are rarely other runners out on the road. So when they are out there its really exciting and they're probably going to become your friend as you will likely stop and have a conversation.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">8. If you get lost, which happens often, there is no stress. You just use the force to find your way back to a main road. Or you can safely wave your hand at the aforementioned nice drivers who will kindly let you know where to go.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">9. Shade is in abundance. Because trees are in abundance. Which is particularly great in the summer months. And it's not a problem to run on the wrong side of the street for the shade as people don't really care. They still nod or wave. Because they're nice.* </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: x-small;">*If you're wondering, yes, I get honked at and yelled at often when I'm running in the city, especially in the winter when I have to share the road.</span></i></div><p>10. And last, but certainly not least, unlike some of my days at home, there is truly not a day that goes by when I'm not genuinely happy to lace up and get outside when I'm up in NH. And that's pretty awesome.</p><p><span style="color: #b45f06;">Listen to this:</span></p><p><b><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/3kBBjItT7JnKi28k68dGkr?si=5C6u85XQSAm9Qtx-aja9Dw" target="_blank"><span style="color: #800180;">Spitting Off the Edge of the World</span></a><span style="color: #b45f06;"> - Yeah Yeah Yeahs</span></b></p><p></p>
<iframe allow="autoplay" frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1270182052&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true" width="100%"></iframe><div style="color: #cccccc; font-family: Interstate, "Lucida Grande", "Lucida Sans Unicode", "Lucida Sans", Garuda, Verdana, Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-weight: 100; line-break: anywhere; overflow: hidden; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap; word-break: normal;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/secretlycanadian" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="Secretly Canadian">Secretly Canadian</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/secretlycanadian/yeah-yeah-yeahs-spitting-off-the-edge-of-the-world-feat-perfume-genius" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="Yeah Yeah Yeahs - Spitting Off the Edge of the World (feat. Perfume Genius)">Yeah Yeah Yeahs - Spitting Off the Edge of the World (feat. Perfume Genius)</a></div>RUNNINGWITHMUSIChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08229272359508846579noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086750970765027099.post-53626144839698370702022-05-23T06:14:00.003-07:002022-05-23T06:20:31.294-07:00RWR:MEET JUSTINE GALLOWAY, RUNNER FOR LIFE<div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;"> "Some people may think I am going the wrong way but it's my way. <br />And for me it is the right way."</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">~ Justine Galloway</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhawBDBXtbttQ1lKg4NIB6cYL7lSYt2UuDRV84qzc6HOHqo7te8igFgdxPy2EtWqIzKeplQR3IP0Ct7JwAnCpjqsLoxFealmx7vdosl3e20LG-EfStBSVAoGNv3TlZnuHtPqdsL46DK8cRiuqIZGPZuiiH0nR3-Hv3_Zq3IzJaHdbeCYmTSBuhK31iN/s1434/IMG_16EB331A1A79-1.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1434" data-original-width="1170" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhawBDBXtbttQ1lKg4NIB6cYL7lSYt2UuDRV84qzc6HOHqo7te8igFgdxPy2EtWqIzKeplQR3IP0Ct7JwAnCpjqsLoxFealmx7vdosl3e20LG-EfStBSVAoGNv3TlZnuHtPqdsL46DK8cRiuqIZGPZuiiH0nR3-Hv3_Zq3IzJaHdbeCYmTSBuhK31iN/s320/IMG_16EB331A1A79-1.jpeg" width="261" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As far as I'm concerned, anyone who completes a half or full marathon, regardless of time or place, is a total badass. Justine Galloway has run seven half marathons and one full. So, there. Badass status. But then, multiply it by ten. Because Justine did all of these races running backwards. That's right. She runs backwards. Which, since 2011, is the only way she can physically run. And, if I'm being honest, it kind of blows my mind. Typically this is when I do a little writeup about the people I profile, introducing them and sharing their story after having connected with them beforehand. In this case, tho, I'm going to let Justine take the reigns. She gave me the full story and I just think it's worth sharing the whole thing with you. So, with that I'll introduce Justine Galloway, a RUNNER WHO ROCKS.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><i><span style="color: #b45f06;">I started running when I was just a little girl. My dad was training for the marathon and I would run around the block with him when he was finishing his run. I would go on to run fun runs and the Father’s Day run in NYC as a child. When I was 6/7 he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s. As his health began to decline, my love for running just got stronger. I ran for Teaneck High School, which was truly one of my favorite experiences. I then went on to run for Rutgers. In my 20s, I ran the NYC marathon, Boston Marathon and others. My best marathon time was 3:16. In 2009, my dad passed and I continued to run. I ran my last forward marathon in 2010, the Chicago Marathon.</span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><i><span style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><i><span style="color: #b45f06;">In 2011, I set out to run the Boston Marathon. At mile 18, I had to call the run after spending time in the medic tent. A few weeks later I would take a fall and after that forward running became nearly impossible. My left leg stopped listening to my brain. I would drag my leg behind me as if it was no longer connected to my body. At one point, it impacted my walking. I would cry walking from my car to the supermarket. I was diagnosed with everything from MS to needing to see a psychologist. After 2 years of trying to find a cause for my inability to run, I was diagnosed with Focal Dystonia (</span><a href="https://www.runnersworld.com/health-injuries/a20865203/runners-dystonia-mysterious-malady-causes-mind-and-muscle-to-lose-touch/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #800180;">Runner’s Dystonia</span></a><span style="color: #b45f06;">). I was giving Parkinson’s medication, which I quickly got off of since I had seen what it had done to my dad. With a diagnosis in hand, I stopped searching. Having spent my childhood seeing my dad in and out of hospitals, I decided that having the reason was good enough.</span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><i><span style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><i><span style="color: #b45f06;">I moved to San Diego, CA shortly after thinking I would swim and bike, retiring my running sneakers. I had found in NJ that at P/T I was able to run backwards. I had also met someone in CA who also had Runner’s Dystonia and she was able to run backwards. It wasn’t long before my running sneakers were taken out of retirement and laced up for backwards running. I started backwards running on the sand and then moved to the streets. I found a running club, running friends, and a boyfriend (who would later be my husband) to run backwards with me. I set out to run a backwards half marathon for the Guinness World Record (GWR) in 2015 with my brother because why not?!? He flew out from NYC to run with me. We didn’t catch it all on camera so I had to repeat in 2016. For 2016, my brother and sister flew out to run it with me. My husband-to-be would also run it with me. I would get the World Record. It would later be broken. I would then break it again running another half with my husband. Once again it would be broken. </span></i><i><span style="color: #b45f06;">But for me it was never really about the GWR, it was about finding a way to run!</span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><i><span style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><i><span style="color: #b45f06;">I would also run the NYC Marathon backwards in 2017 for the </span><span style="color: #800180;">Michael J Fox Parkinson's Foundation</span><span style="color: #b45f06;">. It was one of the hardest things I have ever done in my life. My plan was to run the whole thing backwards with no forward facing motion. I accomplished it in 6 hours and 6 minutes and felt every step. It was the only marathon I had ever ran where it rained, of course (lol). </span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><i><span style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><i><span style="color: #b45f06;">I continue to run backwards and will run backwards for as long as I can. Hopefully I will run the NYC marathon backwards again but for now I am just happy to run on the days I can run!</span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;"> RWR:</span><span style="color: #800180;">MEET JUSTINE GALLOWAY</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #800180;"><br /></span></b></div><span style="color: #b45f06;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJlONTFhkA2m5urAAbKYueYfYE8ZAYl0CDpKpOErkcDJTzEpJxrty2pZIGlv_7Zre5vobKyb7rgACygudD1T11QOw6wmLZQG8AoSEh-TPBRt6GhCbtYAz6Ts1U-oZMO0wPZ_ip3EaMR5F9Jvcszw00Oq6uFIDFFEv242fHjv3Mn3EMa2n_VuO4nxrK/s1447/IMG_89C50EBE6A9A-1.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1447" data-original-width="1170" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJlONTFhkA2m5urAAbKYueYfYE8ZAYl0CDpKpOErkcDJTzEpJxrty2pZIGlv_7Zre5vobKyb7rgACygudD1T11QOw6wmLZQG8AoSEh-TPBRt6GhCbtYAz6Ts1U-oZMO0wPZ_ip3EaMR5F9Jvcszw00Oq6uFIDFFEv242fHjv3Mn3EMa2n_VuO4nxrK/w259-h320/IMG_89C50EBE6A9A-1.jpeg" width="259" /></a></div></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Name: </span><span style="color: #800180;">Justine Galloway</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Where you're from: </span><span style="color: #800180;">Teaneck, NJ :)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Where you reside now: </span><span style="color: #800180;">San Diego, CA</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Age: </span><span style="color: #800180;">42 (even though I feel 24)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Occupation: </span><span style="color: #800180;">Engineer in Biotech (at Illumina) </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Blog/website: </span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/rennur316/"><span style="color: #800180;">https://www.instagram.com/rennur316/</span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">*</span> <a href="https://runningrare.com/stories/dystonia-justine-galloway-story/"><span style="color: #800180;">https://runningrare.com/stories/dystonia-justine-galloway-story/</span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">* </span><a href="https://www.wbur.org/onlyagame/2019/01/25/justine-galloway-backwards-marathon-record"><span style="color: #800180;">https://www.wbur.org/onlyagame/2019/01/25/justine-galloway-backwards-marathon-record</span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">* </span><a href="https://www.runnersworld.com/news/a20863368/backward-runner-at-nyc-marathon/"><span style="color: #800180;">https://www.runnersworld.com/news/a20863368/backward-runner-at-nyc-marathon/</span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieR4Qzq_0qlOA3s-cuyaQnbQSJRN1s9npzslzS24PcckgRCJUkcT0og6IFzoStF6MvuDoRKgv6KRth5D3g-cONFcQT00cKTi6Dd5Tb8Q0NEI-mI56gdrgWSWrj8cGOO3Q5Fpj9ZeqSeQLy8nfNMgpViVNiesj0e-Ov-l8htE_zXQn9NzUJopjAL9Y4/s719/0-1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="719" data-original-width="719" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieR4Qzq_0qlOA3s-cuyaQnbQSJRN1s9npzslzS24PcckgRCJUkcT0og6IFzoStF6MvuDoRKgv6KRth5D3g-cONFcQT00cKTi6Dd5Tb8Q0NEI-mI56gdrgWSWrj8cGOO3Q5Fpj9ZeqSeQLy8nfNMgpViVNiesj0e-Ov-l8htE_zXQn9NzUJopjAL9Y4/s320/0-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: x-small;"><b>FINISHING NYC MARATHON BACKWARDS</b></span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>ON RUNNING & MUSIC</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">What do you love most about running? </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #800180;">There is so much to love about running. For me running provides me with a connection to my dad who passed in 2009. He was a runner. He started running the year I was born. He ran the NYC marathon in 1980. At the age of 46/47 he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. He would run his last marathon in 1990 (Marine Corps) and it would land him in the hospital. His health continued to decline and walking became difficult. So not only does running connect me to my dad but it reminds me that everything we love can be taken away from us at any moment so we have to embrace it for as long as we can. I embrace running. One more thing-anyone can do it. You don't need a lot of money or equipment, you just need to run!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">What do you love most about music?</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #800180;">Music brings me back to some of my favorite memories and it makes you feel good at exactly the right time. Music speaks to everyone at an individual level.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #800180;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx_mLJGT_iqUsNuCymjqNLbEh3pYLsYQ-7p7MFF45vGoseYyd__vm6xqZuWW32Es9XSgi6xPNsUr0FDb-A7yytHPdYymcJRlQMMBwwhlVZh6swG52mrvlCAkzy7Th4-AK0bAcGeSY0tc1BAoJkEd_GgTqvM92t6MNR9zwWh-3moW3z32oNdrjcbjEW/s1364/IMG_10D637A415DD-1.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1364" data-original-width="1170" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx_mLJGT_iqUsNuCymjqNLbEh3pYLsYQ-7p7MFF45vGoseYyd__vm6xqZuWW32Es9XSgi6xPNsUr0FDb-A7yytHPdYymcJRlQMMBwwhlVZh6swG52mrvlCAkzy7Th4-AK0bAcGeSY0tc1BAoJkEd_GgTqvM92t6MNR9zwWh-3moW3z32oNdrjcbjEW/s320/IMG_10D637A415DD-1.jpeg" width="274" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #800180; font-size: x-small;">Racing backwards w/ the help of Emily K.</span></b></div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>JUSTINE'S FAVORITES:</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Band (current, all time or both):</span><span style="color: #800180;"> Mary J Blige, always!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Album (current, all time or both):</span><span style="color: #800180;"> My Life!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Race venue: </span><span style="color: #800180;">NYC marathon</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Music venue: </span><span style="color: #800180;">Humphreys San Diego (but still have a lot more to see)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Race distance:</span><span style="color: #800180;"> 26.2</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Show you've seen live: </span><span style="color: #800180;">India Arie, Mary J. Blige, Dave Mathews, Slightly Stoopid, Janet Jackson, Billy Joel, Bruce Springstein, Counting Crows, Powderfinger… </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Ice cream flavor:</span><span style="color: #800180;"> Coffee Ice Cream</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: black;"><b style="color: #b45f06; text-align: justify;">THIS OR THAT?</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #b45f06; text-align: left;">Sweet or salty?</span><span style="color: #800180; text-align: left;"> Salty</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Live or recorded?</span><span style="color: #800180;"> Live</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Coffee or tea? </span><span style="color: #800180;">Coffee</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Summer or winter?</span><span style="color: #800180;"> Winter</span></div></div></div><span style="color: #b45f06;">Cup or cone? </span><span style="color: #800180;">Cup</span></div></div></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: black;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: black;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRwWwHn2Au4Fb9cCiKbBZKrsmKpA1eh5okzw2nicjx-Vr4VFeyX7RZLvwyWxWb7VwHy5INoSrv1UmCYCCHfOsnU-fAdOrsvee8m2CO6NcOH3zY2mGunOtsTz7UBs7cqGbBfvvpSWMZ9KdgXsLkE-VPwQSKvA6K6GcO4-H9Zp4fI-N3r_HgnXUDfZ7n/s1080/5b12d7ffe4f08fa67f3ac013d970671679c968c60388a4c2f0c91fff4dc84e4b._SX1080_.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="608" data-original-width="1080" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRwWwHn2Au4Fb9cCiKbBZKrsmKpA1eh5okzw2nicjx-Vr4VFeyX7RZLvwyWxWb7VwHy5INoSrv1UmCYCCHfOsnU-fAdOrsvee8m2CO6NcOH3zY2mGunOtsTz7UBs7cqGbBfvvpSWMZ9KdgXsLkE-VPwQSKvA6K6GcO4-H9Zp4fI-N3r_HgnXUDfZ7n/w400-h225/5b12d7ffe4f08fa67f3ac013d970671679c968c60388a4c2f0c91fff4dc84e4b._SX1080_.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180; font-size: x-small;"><b>Mary J. Blige</b></span></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><b style="color: #b45f06;">MORE MUSIC INFO</b></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Which band or artist would you go see tonight if you could? </span><span style="color: #800180;">The Weekend </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Which band or artist (wait...but no longer alive or playing together) would you go see tonight if you could? </span><span style="color: #800180;">Michael Jackson</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Which band or artist would you like to have dinner with tonight if you could?</span><span style="color: #800180;"> Mary J Blige</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Which band or artist would you like to be playing alongside you during your next race (or long run)? </span><span style="color: #800180;">Tribe called quest</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJz065SuzKo-j7B01jMyfPzKKMU6B7w5GOWj7QTO5ocqVqrEiaqwrbx9kLWu-egPyIJIvWPocnHeMeDEcpmaCEZYKPE2_a8BDZ5k2PrjzMoPwUdW-FNpSxWD8MKmhe38UQEgZPWFn_tiDVB3_RbGRByPq8ur6oY_DM2betbSA9q44Y21bQXeGLUIQ8/s862/0.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="862" data-original-width="571" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJz065SuzKo-j7B01jMyfPzKKMU6B7w5GOWj7QTO5ocqVqrEiaqwrbx9kLWu-egPyIJIvWPocnHeMeDEcpmaCEZYKPE2_a8BDZ5k2PrjzMoPwUdW-FNpSxWD8MKmhe38UQEgZPWFn_tiDVB3_RbGRByPq8ur6oY_DM2betbSA9q44Y21bQXeGLUIQ8/s320/0.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180; font-size: x-small;"><b>Running Boston (forwards)</b></span></div><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b><br />LAST ONE:</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Complete this sentence:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">T</span><span style="color: #b45f06;">oday, I feel like.... </span><span style="color: #800180;"><i>the luckiest person in the world because I went for a run and it felt good!</i></span></div></div></div><br /><b style="color: #b45f06; text-align: center;">Top Songs for running, dancing or both:</b><br /><span style="color: #800180; text-align: center;">What’s the 411, Mary J Blige </span><br /><span style="color: #800180; text-align: center;">There’s Hope, India Arie</span><br /><span style="color: #800180; text-align: center;">Lose Control, Missy Elliot</span><br /><span style="color: #800180; text-align: center;">Lose Yourself, Eminem</span><br /><br /><b style="color: #b45f06; text-align: center;">Last 5 Songs you listened to today:</b><br /><span style="color: #800180; text-align: center;">New York City, Nora Jones</span><br /><span style="color: #800180; text-align: center;">Baby Can I Hold You, Tracy Chapman</span><br /><span style="color: #800180; text-align: center;">Electric Relaxation, A Tribe Called Quest</span><br /><span style="color: #800180; text-align: center;">Slick Rick, Children’s story</span><br /><span style="color: #800180; text-align: center;">Space Between, Dave Mathews</span><div><span style="color: #800180; text-align: center;">One More Night, Slightly Stoopid</span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzlGlKWo2z1Xl8BpTI_51JOPvFZ1DQdZco-Dv4r4JAjPDrKNtTOBIOqOwRyDPMRhmlDaoreXNUm1gesUki1sQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><div style="color: #b45f06; text-align: left;">Listen to this:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #800180;">Running</span> <span style="color: #b45f06;">by Mary J. Blige</span></div></div></div>
<iframe allow="autoplay" frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1262991838&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true" width="100%"></iframe><div style="color: #cccccc; font-family: Interstate, "Lucida Grande", "Lucida Sans Unicode", "Lucida Sans", Garuda, Verdana, Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-weight: 100; line-break: anywhere; overflow: hidden; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap; word-break: normal;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/officialmaryjblige" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="MaryJBlige">MaryJBlige</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/officialmaryjblige/running-feat-neyo" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="Running (feat. NeYo)">Running (feat. NeYo)</a></div>RUNNINGWITHMUSIChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08229272359508846579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086750970765027099.post-49559831848171140982022-04-12T08:44:00.007-07:002022-04-12T17:24:22.188-07:00RACE REVIEW:CHEAP MARTHON<div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">"Running from the morning, yea</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">Good night, tryna get a clear view</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">Dancing in the moonshine, yea</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">It’s nothing new"</span></i></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">'Guilty Pleasure', Groupthink</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></span></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw6eYlCrJZK8UL0gasX6eVHB7wi5AxTH6AKfsbYalpnCD_bDJbuRNNXwTVya2S9Y43-fW__H9CO9API-mKOGGTRDsBjld2h9QuTHReVLyVMSaXfsDmBcc1O5muVyYZRh3BNMvEFyS9OJolWlXYUFJT-LbCacdESUHMmYMOxjGUFFG_9NBg668jFcdb/s2697/IMG_4311.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2697" data-original-width="2697" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw6eYlCrJZK8UL0gasX6eVHB7wi5AxTH6AKfsbYalpnCD_bDJbuRNNXwTVya2S9Y43-fW__H9CO9API-mKOGGTRDsBjld2h9QuTHReVLyVMSaXfsDmBcc1O5muVyYZRh3BNMvEFyS9OJolWlXYUFJT-LbCacdESUHMmYMOxjGUFFG_9NBg668jFcdb/w200-h200/IMG_4311.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>Last Sunday I ran the</span><span style="text-align: left;"> </span><a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=greenstride+cheap+marathon&oq=greenstride+cheap+marathon&aqs=chrome..69i57j33i160l2.4794j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8" style="text-align: left;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Greenstride Cheap Marathon</span></a><span style="text-align: left;">. It was an epic day. Here's the story. Wait, but first a little background info. As you may know, since late February I've been dealing with some annoying issues with my left foot (the bunion and the second toe) and my left hamstring; all of them related. I broke it down in the beginning of</span><span style="text-align: left;"> </span><a href="https://runningwithmusic.blogspot.com/2022/03/race-reviewnew-bedford-131.html" style="text-align: left;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #b45f06;">this post</span></a><span style="text-align: left;"> </span><span style="text-align: left;">if you want the details. It's not worth repeating for those of you who already know the deal or for those who don't care one way or another. Bottom line, I was coming into this marathon a little broken and hoping for the best. That said, my training cycle had been pretty smooth up until the month before race day and I'd done a lot of work to rehab the left side of my body during the final weeks of my buildup so between that and all that good work that was deep in the well, the plan was just to tap it, cross my fingers and see what happened. </span></div><br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD0xpWaLDGP2N9P325hoFNcWxLSpApVOepoWuojA7js3bQAJMDDTDFCvo9Yid1z2auI-nUAKClwPStdCZDkKj1Ulka7qgfUPHlv1YzMMNfx0qbYLdDJEMACK73UEk8eygHi-zI7egyxoaUIN21WYnM8sAafKFZbfByaxj7ywpTddEOH-M7GpV5x7AU/s3284/IMG_4247.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3284" data-original-width="2927" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD0xpWaLDGP2N9P325hoFNcWxLSpApVOepoWuojA7js3bQAJMDDTDFCvo9Yid1z2auI-nUAKClwPStdCZDkKj1Ulka7qgfUPHlv1YzMMNfx0qbYLdDJEMACK73UEk8eygHi-zI7egyxoaUIN21WYnM8sAafKFZbfByaxj7ywpTddEOH-M7GpV5x7AU/s320/IMG_4247.JPG" width="285" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As per usual, I laid out all the gear I'd need on race day the night before. And then I threw in a few extra things that I don't typically include like arm sleeves, salt tabs and a pack of extra gels with caffeine. This half-hearted decision would save me during the race, but more on that later. I do love the local marathon from a logistics standpoint. Being able to follow my regular routine for eating and sleeping and have everything available to me or very close by with a quick trip down town if needed is huge. Alleviates a lot of stress. I had an early dinner and turned in around 8:30 in preparation for my 4:30am wakeup.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTzyUNs4St5Cm2HPitNALbOMb60n2iEGCLGTHXJ-lf5wWPkEBUTB3DuqQs22EWLEpfRH4d_HJciAs7w9OM7x9bG7r-2DXwItjNt4EQEmO44sgesZtHTeWLgLzGDnwhNk7carAemF9-iuMDrr761tnI4-wLojy6d1u_MQceC9NzuLy1C7dKKDDneEbJ/s3088/IMG_4250.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3088" data-original-width="2316" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTzyUNs4St5Cm2HPitNALbOMb60n2iEGCLGTHXJ-lf5wWPkEBUTB3DuqQs22EWLEpfRH4d_HJciAs7w9OM7x9bG7r-2DXwItjNt4EQEmO44sgesZtHTeWLgLzGDnwhNk7carAemF9-iuMDrr761tnI4-wLojy6d1u_MQceC9NzuLy1C7dKKDDneEbJ/w150-h200/IMG_4250.JPG" width="150" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtGunMDpsALdn6F3aWJI-jIU7ao-KILeMFQ5lcciinx0_N29NhQ-GXgkUZgYC9CYLLz0OzuYKDjiT0OUOJ2NtrZoOhWdvTvSd_znDKGc5mLqkG20bQlb3p_KXfif8X2zJDyOIcrKGv_IqeJBqWyzho8r-x9wXYqZVqdTVjFnq06bX4TxfjXyIB6XP6/s3088/IMG_4252.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3088" data-original-width="2316" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtGunMDpsALdn6F3aWJI-jIU7ao-KILeMFQ5lcciinx0_N29NhQ-GXgkUZgYC9CYLLz0OzuYKDjiT0OUOJ2NtrZoOhWdvTvSd_znDKGc5mLqkG20bQlb3p_KXfif8X2zJDyOIcrKGv_IqeJBqWyzho8r-x9wXYqZVqdTVjFnq06bX4TxfjXyIB6XP6/w150-h200/IMG_4252.JPG" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTNrSy6f5R9W75CzawP1tLVo3waxdaESpZuWNfHFeTVq2GaesN8lUL7hAh0AXD-g_hiagOio2D90y91Znud5vhCE44jgwd4AAz4-vMI1_Jx3lKheloIXeWrjqk0fVF-Q1lNJHvcNVYsoL0TSDPo2Djr_uqftmEAWQFbW0b_tTuSmhpbc7Cg8I4Wr4R/s3088/IMG_4260.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3088" data-original-width="2316" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTNrSy6f5R9W75CzawP1tLVo3waxdaESpZuWNfHFeTVq2GaesN8lUL7hAh0AXD-g_hiagOio2D90y91Znud5vhCE44jgwd4AAz4-vMI1_Jx3lKheloIXeWrjqk0fVF-Q1lNJHvcNVYsoL0TSDPo2Djr_uqftmEAWQFbW0b_tTuSmhpbc7Cg8I4Wr4R/w150-h200/IMG_4260.JPG" width="150" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The top three photos sum up my morning pretty nicely. First, coffee. Happiness. Second, sadness when I realized that Grace had slept over at a friend's house and couldn't do my traditional race day braid. Oh well. And last, a surprise visit from Clover who heard me moving around and came down to say hi. Okay, not really. She came down to eat, but it was still nice to have her company. I had a thirty minute drive to Derry, NH and my race start, because they were using a time trial format, was 7:32:41am. Yes, they were that precise with my time assignment. Odd. Though, I'm always excited to see the number <b><span style="color: #b45f06;">'41'</span></b> pop up as it is my favorite number. I left around 5:45 and made it easily to NH as the sun was coming up.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgILPbG8dPKd1OzXWWrsdX97dhSCzWlZg5iP-SvmimzCT84RRNOjDLTM0l15EGcYG8YHzmwxxZZKIDBrvJqw6T0DeLe2Z_hDtW04lyOaykALyem5kL0qij_yloM98cF6HLLV0HjPN1TDPcKTp1u3CTTGGiz5T-cvASehmuDUSvN1irw5qBPICmP0lLl/s3024/IMG_4266.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2574" data-original-width="3024" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgILPbG8dPKd1OzXWWrsdX97dhSCzWlZg5iP-SvmimzCT84RRNOjDLTM0l15EGcYG8YHzmwxxZZKIDBrvJqw6T0DeLe2Z_hDtW04lyOaykALyem5kL0qij_yloM98cF6HLLV0HjPN1TDPcKTp1u3CTTGGiz5T-cvASehmuDUSvN1irw5qBPICmP0lLl/s320/IMG_4266.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It was an absolutely gorgeous morning. Quiet, clear and cold (33 degrees) which I was more than okay with. I've done this marathon before. It's very small, the course consists of two laps on a narrow bike path, there isn't a ton of support and as far as fans go there are about three. So why did I choose this one, you ask? Great question. Last fall I decided to start working with a new coach. Nothing against Lowell. He's awesome. But, for the months leading up to Boston in October I'd been doing a lot of training with a few of the women on the Whirlaway team, a group I'd joined pre-Covid primarily for some much needed run camaraderie. For the past few years I've been doing the majority of my work alone and I found that having them as training partners was so nice and then came to realize, after Boston, that I wanted to train with them on a regular basis. Many of them are coached by Ruben Sanca and will be lining up for Boston next week. Since I can't do Boston this year because we're taking our girls away for spring break for the first time in ten years and maybe the last before Rosie goes to college, I picked a race that was as close to the Boston date as possible so most of the workouts would lineup with my teammates workouts. As we all know, winter training can be brutal. It was a hell of a lot less miserable having people to do the training with. So, that's how I landed on the Cheap Marathon. Not at all sexy, but logistically it made sense. Okay, so there I was, all warmed up and ready to go. I'd put one gel in my pants pocket and one in the pocket of my sports bra. And I made a last minute decision to carry the aforementioned gels with caffeine, which I don't typically use because I struggle with chews as opposed to gels. Honestly, I don't know why I grabbed them. I never will. But someone up there was looking out for me at that moment. I went to the start area and stood by my cone. I did some last minute stretching and then checked all my pockets. The gel in my pants pocket was not there. I looked around to see if it had fallen out. No dice. There was nothing I could do as I was about to start. I pulled out my phone and sent an emergency text to Lauren, one of my teammates who I knew was there. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbwLMvb_ZTuryvNwCME1PUXImlW5Ne68U0zwAcyWJXl8TRBDLOQQ5f5Mq8Jdb5tsqGDqbS51I9MiHsVhR2rYdLtn9l2BSHQMB4sLdg7VIJ6ZG4xnp-fJSxyIon1bJ6tqxeU2XD7gvlCWQyHrUwBnBEePateyJj5yEH9WF-dqvQUJOkwBlu0s1kHP0-/s1511/IMG_068A54B2968D-1.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1511" data-original-width="1170" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbwLMvb_ZTuryvNwCME1PUXImlW5Ne68U0zwAcyWJXl8TRBDLOQQ5f5Mq8Jdb5tsqGDqbS51I9MiHsVhR2rYdLtn9l2BSHQMB4sLdg7VIJ6ZG4xnp-fJSxyIon1bJ6tqxeU2XD7gvlCWQyHrUwBnBEePateyJj5yEH9WF-dqvQUJOkwBlu0s1kHP0-/s320/IMG_068A54B2968D-1.jpeg" width="248" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I tried not to panic. I had one gel and the pack of chews. I was hopeful that I'd be able to find Lauren's husband at some point and that he'd be able to bring some down. If not, my plan B was just drink Gatorade for the entire second half of the race. This was not ideal but it was all I could think of in the moment. I just had to trust that it would all work out. I turned on my music. Shook it out. And got on the line. Ready or not.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHXmVv-uh1j9aDudT37-qxA5t3weqos3vvVBGoAfnBHvkjpwwD6ZZDVJWBxIAM-PH1JMAtFKTNVy17mGFb4rcxEiGibZ_Nn3dv47W6EzhXv1yv4psi8MHpvmo96tj6VPM4DiURXH2TfTFK41_dxhwQFZN0TYRt4IeXo_KfoUGlfO5dokA7Ywu6oDq-/s426/Screen%20Shot%202022-04-11%20at%201.59.20%20PM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="301" data-original-width="426" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHXmVv-uh1j9aDudT37-qxA5t3weqos3vvVBGoAfnBHvkjpwwD6ZZDVJWBxIAM-PH1JMAtFKTNVy17mGFb4rcxEiGibZ_Nn3dv47W6EzhXv1yv4psi8MHpvmo96tj6VPM4DiURXH2TfTFK41_dxhwQFZN0TYRt4IeXo_KfoUGlfO5dokA7Ywu6oDq-/w400-h283/Screen%20Shot%202022-04-11%20at%201.59.20%20PM.png" width="400" /></a></div><b><span style="color: #800180;"><br /></span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #800180;">THE RACE</span></b><br /><span style="color: #b45f06;">MILES 1-6 (6:33, 6:54, 6:40, 6:47, 6:50, 6:43)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">At 7:32:41 and not a second sooner, I was off. My goal for this race was to run under three hours (6:52 pace) or better. I'd done it once before back in 2018 and had convinced myself that I could do it again despite the fact that I was getting older. I'm the first to say age is just a number but we all know that running, or any sport for that matter, gets trickier with age, especially when your goals stay the same. In true Rebecca fashion, I'd come stupidly close several times since that 2018 race - 3:02 in Chicago in 2019, 3:01 in NH about a month later, 3:00:31 at this same Cheap Marathon in 2021 and the 3:08 in Boston last October. But, this time around my training was a little different then it had been for the last ten years and for the first time I'd started doing strength work twice a week to round things out. Perhaps these small but notable tweaks would be enough to make up that difference of a few minutes? Okay, so back to the race. Not surprisingly, I took things out too fast. Happens. I pulled it back for mile two and then tried to just get myself calibrated somewhere in the middle. I locked in with the two gentlemen in the photo below around mile three, noticing that they were running steady splits in the 6:40-50 range which was perfect. At one point I asked them if they minded that I had joined them as I didn't want to be annoying. But the guy in the green said, "No, not at all. Run with us." Love that. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHbR62fiBB9NB8BGhb63oFE6X39jthfhuf4swr2opB2rArgFJ7PHUSD7mT28e5v3PKoBE06mcRWnzysUSE8NrMTtH-RE8WFfmn8CW3IKNEujMr-_VYIre6VdP_Knrj5OLsDhOeUrPjVlqJ4X7c9bA1a-jd24wtOuXsbm2SaQ-vXDW3cEGcRYNX7ab_/s593/Screen%20Shot%202022-04-11%20at%202.18.10%20PM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="593" data-original-width="416" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHbR62fiBB9NB8BGhb63oFE6X39jthfhuf4swr2opB2rArgFJ7PHUSD7mT28e5v3PKoBE06mcRWnzysUSE8NrMTtH-RE8WFfmn8CW3IKNEujMr-_VYIre6VdP_Knrj5OLsDhOeUrPjVlqJ4X7c9bA1a-jd24wtOuXsbm2SaQ-vXDW3cEGcRYNX7ab_/s320/Screen%20Shot%202022-04-11%20at%202.18.10%20PM.png" width="224" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">MILES 6-13 (6:43, 6:52, 6:44, 6:46, 6:49, 6:48, 6:41)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I took my first, and only gel, as planned right around mile six which is also where we took a hairpin turn and then headed back on the path in the opposite direction. We were still in cruise control, right on pace and I felt good. I was locked in, focused and relaxed. Huge shout out to the guys I'd joined up with as they were taking a lot of the pressure off for me with their pacing duties. Somewhere along this stretch I picked my head up to see three of my Lexington runners screaming my name. Oh my heavens, was that awesome. I definitely teared up as I waved to them. It was an unexpected treat and it boosted my spirits big time because as I mentioned, there is really not much happening along this course as far as crowds. Like, at all. They <i>were</i> the crowd. And I loved them for it! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg86MUabFOY6_6Dynh59saI-_7QybrLmlH7XP5IoJ157u5WCqgsHGfbS-6Ova_Lm0j9jeYb0_zKwwF0stJs6tszvvFPOPYAumDXBE_ErFg6SIQluaQBRwGsWWOwdYYL-NclOadpSdE_Njq1lQixWNpmofgt0WZbsPpHERUFouEmV5l8WhWIibhe0bUX/s4032/IMG_4884.JPEG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg86MUabFOY6_6Dynh59saI-_7QybrLmlH7XP5IoJ157u5WCqgsHGfbS-6Ova_Lm0j9jeYb0_zKwwF0stJs6tszvvFPOPYAumDXBE_ErFg6SIQluaQBRwGsWWOwdYYL-NclOadpSdE_Njq1lQixWNpmofgt0WZbsPpHERUFouEmV5l8WhWIibhe0bUX/s320/IMG_4884.JPEG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">MILES 14-20 (6:43, 6:55, 6:42, 6:35, 6:38, 6:37, 6:44)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Okay, so remember the gels with caffeine that I'd randomly thrown in my bag the night before and that by some miracle I had decided to toss into my pocket before the race started. Yes, those. Turns out, those saved me. Big time. No question things would have been a lot different had I not brought them. Like, bad different. I started eating them around mile 12. I find it very hard to chew food while racing hard which is why I prefer the gels. Which I didn't have. So, I just ate each chew one at a time and thanked the running gods that I had them. The halfway point of this race is a little brutal. The runners are sent off the rail trail and into a local neighborhood. Fine. But then we rounded a turn and had to climb a hill to get back on the trail. Not that big a deal given that the course is pretty flat but still, I'd been on autopilot on the trail so I had to resettle myself once I was headed out for my second lap. As you can see by my splits, I was still running right on pace but I continuously reminded myself that the race had not started yet and I needed to stay focused and be patient for this third section. And then I saw Ali. And I totally lost my shit. Because I didn't know she was coming and I was just so happy to see a familiar face. And she was jumping and screaming and smiling and I got super excited. Maybe a little too excited. But I had no control. I have to share the below video. Ali wanted to take photos but also wanted a video of our high-five so she just went ahead and asked the person next to her to take the video. Look how excited she gets. I freaking love this woman. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxTm7lK4bbQTilKpsli0hlsoxHCI8Ru5838T2vv54Rrf5j0tjLgGn0ZudLRLRje3s7wfy26rlj7u863vex-1Q' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">MILES 21-26.2 (7:03, 6:54, 7:01, 6:52, 6:52, 6:48)</span></div>We took the same hairpin turn at mile 20 and made our way back down the path for the final section. And this is when I started to fade. My legs? Totally fine. But my energy was waning. I needed calories. And I had nothing. As I mentioned, my plan was to use the Gatorade at the water stops for this last part as an alternative to the gels but they were further apart than I needed and I could literally feel the energy seeping out of my bones. SHIT. SHIT. SHIT. I saw the Lex girls again around 22 and got a little boost but then felt myself fading again. I could not afford seven minute miles if I was going to come in under three hours but I didn't really know what to do. Oh, and for this section one of my earbuds stopped working. I still had music but it was soft and I could hear myself breathing like a wild animal which was not what I needed at that point. And then??? Then all my prayers were answered. I looked up to see a woman standing ahead of me, handing out licorice. Praise f***ing be. I grabbed two pieces and started eating them immediately. The sugar kicked in within seconds and I was able to get back on track. Or maybe it wasn't the sugar but just the relief in knowing I now had calories. It doesn't matter. It was what the people wanted. One piece down and I was then able to grind it out and finish with a personal best of 2 hours, fifty eight minutes and twenty six seconds. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLAXMOoSkX14JPOtzXHK6d-hkLx6SomJmIGsHRsnVi0dtqvtOHOhmSV2i4U6PcfvdCLP2HmvlOZHUSEO0Q7a7gGEjUFgbnj-7f7SkR-7okqDqtgIKiEJvK3_3LmqXOupqorzAFK47hUfNjYTJslR2eWFwf0nji4D4TlyJC-DMAh4_ac-VjNr_YBUQQ/s863/Screen%20Shot%202022-04-11%20at%202.00.54%20PM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="620" data-original-width="863" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLAXMOoSkX14JPOtzXHK6d-hkLx6SomJmIGsHRsnVi0dtqvtOHOhmSV2i4U6PcfvdCLP2HmvlOZHUSEO0Q7a7gGEjUFgbnj-7f7SkR-7okqDqtgIKiEJvK3_3LmqXOupqorzAFK47hUfNjYTJslR2eWFwf0nji4D4TlyJC-DMAh4_ac-VjNr_YBUQQ/w400-h288/Screen%20Shot%202022-04-11%20at%202.00.54%20PM.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: red;">THE FINISH and....</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh_rWylAyn8S_lvOdK0r2f6wjWD6hKPLzvRNGJp272e3bNZv-uaDxMaENbaYceBchzRwcjF3O54EBxF-Ree4rXHnmTcag3hTa0A3yAGn56sDlw1NhlVkqIIqVGyBIV_-OLKjvD4WxKzndDjRBTXZtDXvX2YMLAM-xts0ZhlQQpW3W1UrUtZ2RtBoWF/s231/IMG_4307.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="231" data-original-width="190" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh_rWylAyn8S_lvOdK0r2f6wjWD6hKPLzvRNGJp272e3bNZv-uaDxMaENbaYceBchzRwcjF3O54EBxF-Ree4rXHnmTcag3hTa0A3yAGn56sDlw1NhlVkqIIqVGyBIV_-OLKjvD4WxKzndDjRBTXZtDXvX2YMLAM-xts0ZhlQQpW3W1UrUtZ2RtBoWF/w329-h400/IMG_4307.jpg" width="329" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: red;">....THE LICORICE THAT SAVED THE DAY</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">No joke. I will be forever indebted to this licorice lady. I hope I can track her down and thank her in person some day. I crossed the line feeling, oddly, really good and so, so happy. I'd pulled it off. I'd run a lifetime best at forty freaking seven years old. I was hugging my teammates who'd come down to the finish, hugging Ali, hugging my other friend Ali, I mean I was hugging whoever wanted one, really. It didn't feel real. Kind of an out of body experience. Just, so much joy in that moment. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFVnqwkaABr7yB4qezp_GMrSY35Ir9KTuihs8b9IGBMxUCMWqidmlNTRp2lM39gToiT8BWGEHRmoT2y22ROakeJ1mU53KEj3GoiCfsq3zZHxPWVDi-hBYgugiXTkPrFndFlW-4jyqjiFwHxQNSwyweuKsSqxX9XI1_uL7EWZIOgoOlinS7CesulbpE/s4032/IMG_4275.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFVnqwkaABr7yB4qezp_GMrSY35Ir9KTuihs8b9IGBMxUCMWqidmlNTRp2lM39gToiT8BWGEHRmoT2y22ROakeJ1mU53KEj3GoiCfsq3zZHxPWVDi-hBYgugiXTkPrFndFlW-4jyqjiFwHxQNSwyweuKsSqxX9XI1_uL7EWZIOgoOlinS7CesulbpE/s320/IMG_4275.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I grabbed my bag from gear check and guess where my gel was? Yep. In the zipper pocket of my tights. The ones I'd warmed up in and then taken off. Those tights. Funny. But not funny. Lesson learned. Check which pockets you're putting your gear into before you assume you're good to go. Seriously, though. Marathons are a beast. You can train your ass off and do everything right but there are always going to be things that are out of your control. Injuries, bad weather, massive brain farts like putting your much needed fuel in the wrong pocket. Anything can throw you off. But when it does come together, regardless of how, there is nothing like it. And maybe I'll never get it again. But hell if I'm not going to keep trying. Up next? Chicago! I know. I can't help myself.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Listen to this:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/0fXxaWPApfhAx0SQ8CGrEU?si=zmgute8YQt-c0U3e2FKnPQ" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">Guilty Pleasure</span></b></a> - Groupthink</span></div></div></div></div></div><p></p>
<iframe allow="autoplay" frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1244279881&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true" width="100%"></iframe><div style="color: #cccccc; font-family: Interstate, "Lucida Grande", "Lucida Sans Unicode", "Lucida Sans", Garuda, Verdana, Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-weight: 100; line-break: anywhere; overflow: hidden; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap; word-break: normal;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/groupthinker" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="Groupthink">Groupthink</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/groupthinker/guilty-pleasure" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="Guilty Pleasure">Guilty Pleasure</a></div>RUNNINGWITHMUSIChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08229272359508846579noreply@blogger.com44tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3086750970765027099.post-79557199276000506182022-04-06T09:21:00.002-07:002022-04-06T09:23:03.047-07:00IT'S YOUR TIME<div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">"It's not your time that makes you </span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">who you are</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">It's the time spent doing the things</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #800180;">that you love"</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">~ Kendall Thompson, <b>'It's Your Time'</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtnGt9SftzR53Gpc8jHHEfOjo2qxoI05g-SsbzD9yxH98lSsCNbvIGljBkb7ylnWzUsOfBqegZA92mpOOpLoZchkMpm3y6czIGnhCOoMVyN0xVukucoi169CvIoVJQD-eSowQjMcP2oJVYudU-u5ywSy9R_gC29wpzUqBP8A3dEFqu8CPysDBArNup/s291/Screen%20Shot%202022-04-06%20at%2011.35.49%20AM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="291" data-original-width="291" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtnGt9SftzR53Gpc8jHHEfOjo2qxoI05g-SsbzD9yxH98lSsCNbvIGljBkb7ylnWzUsOfBqegZA92mpOOpLoZchkMpm3y6czIGnhCOoMVyN0xVukucoi169CvIoVJQD-eSowQjMcP2oJVYudU-u5ywSy9R_gC29wpzUqBP8A3dEFqu8CPysDBArNup/w200-h200/Screen%20Shot%202022-04-06%20at%2011.35.49%20AM.png" width="200" /></a></div><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: left;">I've met a lot of incredible people through running. People of all ages and from all walks of the earth. In the running world, more often than not, it feels as though you can bump into someone out on the road or at a race, at most running-related events really, and regardless of the fact that they started off as a total stranger within an hour or three you've become fast friends and will likely stay in touch for life. Such was the case for me with Jackie. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDPgHGMwlhZI95t-eUmCH1NGvhGCcG2W4NvYIlxBvlgQBDtgl68QYRkn_X8WOe-YKNum0-s1tvItoY9_tMGDJDJTr8kRYku9CqQbaIv_96N_pFeeamR5VgBzHZ4Cub6vdXns9vbDnI_SGRPHYKVgFNym_YJ7gDNoM7e4YtIHXD85lG7ipSH99mPBUP/s320/0.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="320" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDPgHGMwlhZI95t-eUmCH1NGvhGCcG2W4NvYIlxBvlgQBDtgl68QYRkn_X8WOe-YKNum0-s1tvItoY9_tMGDJDJTr8kRYku9CqQbaIv_96N_pFeeamR5VgBzHZ4Cub6vdXns9vbDnI_SGRPHYKVgFNym_YJ7gDNoM7e4YtIHXD85lG7ipSH99mPBUP/w320-h320/0.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p style="text-align: left;">You may recognize the name as she's been in many of these posts. We met back in 2017 at a Oiselle race meet up in Phoenix, AZ of all places. We spent one day together. One. And she is now like a sister to me. If only it were this easy with everyone, right? Anyway, Jackie has a training partner named Kendall who I've never met in person but I feel like I've known for years. We've connected on the phone, on social media; we've even face-timed as Jackie usually fills him in on all the race details when she's here for Boston events. Which, to my good fortune, is often. To be honest, I probably touch base with Kendall more frequently than Jackie as she is rarely on social media and Kendall is always good for a supportive comment or a cheer on one of my posts. Which brings me to the point. Once in a while a person reaches out and touches you in a way that sends shivers down your spine. When it's someone you know, well that's lovely. But when it's someone who you've never met or don't know very well, like Kendall, and they create the same impact, well that's just beyond cool. Surreal, almost. On Sunday, barring any major disasters, I'll be lining up for my 28th marathon. The road to get to this point has been tricky with lots of ups and downs. It often is for a lot of us. But this particular training cycle has been tougher than most for me. I have a goal time in mind. And that is an important piece of the story. But there's another part of the story. A bigger part. In his own words, Kendall reminded me that it's not my actual time that matters most but the time I spend doing all the things I love, both running and non, that fuels the fire. That time makes me who I am. Not my time on race day. Again, chills. I've met a lot of incredible people through running. </p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>It’s your time</b></span></p><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>It is your time, and that’s important<br />The time that’s spent living, in </b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>laughter, and in love</b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b><br />It’s not your time that makes you </b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>who you are<br />It’s the time spent doing the things </b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>that you love</b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b><br />Your time, that you give to your </b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>athletes, as you coach them to their </b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>victories<br /><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>Your time, that you give, to family </b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>and friends, as they make it </b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>through joys, and miseries</b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b><br />Know it’s your time that is most </b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>important<br />Your time is not as important as that<br /><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>It’s your time to live, laugh, and, to </b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>love<br />Your time is important and that is a </b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>fact!</b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />Written by Kendall Thompson<br />04-05-2022<br />Thinking of Trax</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #800180;">Listen to this:</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/2OBaoP7DfWvlm4gc0QPkgg?si=D4ntjtEoRSeGv8ewLNPOCg" target="_blank"><span style="color: #800180;"><b>The Best Part</b></span></a><span style="color: #800180;"> - Bien & gardentstate</span></div>
<iframe allow="autoplay" frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/279541654&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true" width="100%"></iframe><div style="color: #cccccc; font-family: Interstate, "Lucida Grande", "Lucida Sans Unicode", "Lucida Sans", Garuda, Verdana, Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-weight: 100; line-break: anywhere; overflow: hidden; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap; word-break: normal;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/wearebien" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="Bien">Bien</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/wearebien/the-best-part" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="The Best Part">The Best Part</a></div>RUNNINGWITHMUSIChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08229272359508846579noreply@blogger.com0