Glory Days

I just realized Elly should have titled yesterday's entry "Jill Of All Trades." Eh.

So, happy Tuesday to you, and happy Rest Day to us!! As noted yesterday, Elly totally whiffed understanding today was not a running day and proceded to give me her best pout for the better part of early morning. She's over it now, never fear. And, she gets to run with me tomorrow although that will be a slow go because it's supposed to be in the lower 70s when we go!! Taking care of her is the top priority, so I'll be following her lead for sure!

But, today, we rest. Well, at least, we take a break from running! The clean-out-the-entire-house rampage continues with great success (I was this close  to putting a thank you sign on the bags at the curb for the garbage men today), but on such a nice day, I had to get outside for a while. So, I chose to mow the lawn (um, Rest Day ... anyone ...?). Mowing gave me the same kind of just-thinking-thoughts time as running does, and my mind landed on deciding what to do (read: how to decorate) the space we're clearing and redoing. That lead me to think of pictures I want to display, and, for some reason, my brain went to a picture that's in my senior yearbook:

You might recognize the pony tail mojo.
I've always had that goin' on.

There I am at 18 playing Varsity soccer!! Two words for me at that time on that team: Rock. Star. Honestly, we all were. We were a crazy-good team. And, I loved soccer. Loved it. Every minute of it. Every. Single. Minute. Funny how I hated running at that time in my life, by the way. I loved running after a soccer ball, but that wasn't running. That was playing soccer. Duh.

Anyway, I thought about how if I were to scrapbook that picture (which is already done for me in the yearbook, but whatever), I'd probably use glittery letters to title it, "Glory Days." And, just as quickly as I thought of the title, I thought, "Wait ... what ?" (I also immediately got Bruce Springsteen's "Glory Days" stuck in my head where it has now been for the last three hours. You now, too? You're welcome.)

Sparing you of the wild path upon which my mind often wanders before getting to the real point, I'll break it down. What it came down to was this: Thinking in terms of "Glory Days" made me feel like the best was behind me. Like I was at some kind of peak in high school. Like I couldn't exceed the abilities and accomplishments of that 18-year-old kid.


-- Thank you, Power Of Run Facebook

I figured out in that moment that every stage of life has its own glory, and you actually get to decide what that is! I totally maxed out the opportunities in front of me when I was 18. But, frankly, that's how most of my life past that point has also felt -- like I've maxed them out in an awesome way! There have been some pot holes where I'm pretty sure I was more surviving than living, but, even in those times, I knew that was both temporary and necessary so as to get back to sucking life dry for all it has to offer -- back to creating even more days of glory.

So, no, no way are my Glory Days behind me. In fact, I feel right in the middle of them having just finished a Half but training for this next run with the virtual Half in its heels (the days might be called Glory, but the planning on this was kinda stupid, just sayin' ...!). The excitement of the possibility of pulling off these runs might have gotten the best of my logical brain, but I don't care! It's been fun! Oh, and the best part? I get to decide what counts as Glory! I do!! All that matters is that I go forth with my heart and soul -- just like that soccer player up there whose whole world in that moment was getting that ball. Simply by living life to its fullest, I win!

Amaze yourself today in any way you decide matters! Elly and I will see you after we get our sweat on tomorrow!

Jack Of All Trades

Hi everybody! Elly here bringing to you the Monday run recap. Mommy started and continued the day tired, so she's taking a break. I decided to step in with all four paws to give you the low down on how things are chugging along over here! (It's amazing how many things I can do.)

I noticed very quickly how tired Mommy was today. I gave her toes a lick right before 7 a.m., and she didn't even say hello. THAT'S tired! She never ignores me!! So, once she got out of bed, I would be very helpful in the remembering department. You know, reminding her what needed to happen this morning in case she forgot. RUNNING!! I made sure I was right by her and made sure my tail was wagging hard. Those two signs are the We're Running Today signs. She usually catches on, so I made sure to pour it on extra thick this morning. I even stuck close to her when she changed my bandana. I usually run around and show it off to everyone, but I thought it was important for the remembering project that I stay close.

It totally worked! In no time, I was on my leash ready to goooooooooo !! I had a great time! It was very very warm which is hard on a pooch in a fur coat, but I made the best of it and took a few extra potty breaks to give myself a break. We walked through some stretches that still have water over them from the weekend rain. I liked that because it cooled my paws, and Mommy liked it because it kept my tummy clean and dry. Along the way, Mommy spotted a penny even though she was so sleepy! I was so proud of her. I was also super brave and didn't get too freaked out by the street sweeper. Loud noises scare me, but I kept myself under control because I figured in Mommy's sleepy state, she might finally trip over me when I cut her off like I usually do around the scary noises.

Instead, today, I was fearless ! I was nothing like this dog:

We finished our run with a delightful cool-down stroll at the end. And, of course, I got my hugs and kisses. Mommy's never too tired for that!

And, tomorrow, we rest!! I won't remember that until I hear the shower going. Then, I'll know. And, I'll sigh. But, I'll get over it. We'll see you tomorrow from our resting spots!

My Inner Daffy

Ohhhh, the bones they were a'creakin' this morning!! Where did the sleeping in of yesterday go? Why is the cat always in the way of my good night's sleep? Why is morning so earrrrrrllyyyyy? And, there there was the puppy dog all geared up to go ... only to be sorely disappointed.

Yeah, it was one of those mornings. I kid you not that I was finally feeling the run in a good way at the exact moment I hit the last mile. Great timing, I know. Up to then -- oof. I more than channelled my inner Daffy Duck (remember when he was training for a marathon and was the biggest drama king about his ability-or-lackthereof to run?):

And, here's how I felt on the inside when I was finished ...

... but, here's how I really looked:

A proud-of-you-but-you-smell hug from
PC#3! I'll take the love. And, he was right.

Finished with my finds! Nine more cents!
Only 99 cents more to tie last year's
donation!!!!

A very forgiving pooch.

So, here's how it breaks down ...
Just because I felt like a slug didn't mean I shouldn't go.
It isn't that I blazed up those hills, it's that I got up them at all.
Because I went, I found some cash.
Even though that pack of high school boys running toward me didn't seem to know the wave-to-fellow-runners etiquette, I didn't try to trip any of them nor make three-year-old faces at them.
I should stretch. I should really, really stretch.
And, because I went, I even amazed myself.

I needed to check in with the time situation today because the run felt that terrible. I needed to know if it was a "feels worse than translates into ability" terrible or "for real, what are you thinking" terrible. Fortunately, it was option number one, and my May Half Marathon desire lives another day!

And, tomorrow, we head out for more! Elly will, of course, join me ... if I can get her away from her new best friends, The Robins, who have set up home complete with their baby, blue eggs right under the deck:

We'll see you tomorrow!

A Very Important Day

It's a very important day indeed ...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, ELLY!!!

 

For all of the wags, the licks and the many, many companion miles,

we wish you the happiest of birthdays!!!

 

We do so love our girl!!!

Transferable Effort

You thought that (thank you, I Love To Run Facebook page) was all about running, didn't you? NOT TODAY!! Today's Rest Day has been sponsored by Clean Out the House In Rampage Mode. If it's not nailed down, it's scrutinized! Every bin opened, every drawer and door opened ... NOTHING HAS BEEN SAFE!

Even Elly dipped her head at one point and slowly slinked away hoping to be unnoticed. Just in case.

So, let's see. Burn in my legs: Check ! Fight the urge to quit: You bet'cha !! (who likes cleaning everything out?) Breathe heavily: Eh, not so much except in being ecstatic about one more EMPTY BIN! I even did a little dance at one point. But, I digress. Okay, yadda yadda ... words, words ... Ah, yes, this one: No one will stop me. AMEN.

(Not when cleaning stuff out. Not when running. Not ever.)

I seriously think I'm on such fire about this project that Sunday's long run will be a cake walk. What's crazy is that I feel like all of my running has totally paid off in terms of keeping me goinggoinggoing during this crazed process! I love when good things are so transferable!

And, yes, another Rest Day in on the docket for tomorrow! It's been a long time since I've had two in a row ... totally looking forward to a day in between this crazy and a run!

A Prosperous Route Indeed

Okay, I started the day by running which is supposed to help run the day, right?! That picture thing I found yesterday said so, then I said so, so, it must be so. I have to admit that it did nothing to help my success nor subsequent mood when I spent many hours today rearranging one of the rooms in our house only to have it not work out in the end thereby requiring everything to go back where it originally was. Just sayin'.

Before getting to the at-least-everything-got-cleaned-in-the-furniture-moving-process extravaganza, I did, indeed, start the day with a really great run! It's shortest-run-of-the-week run day (yay!), and I took full advantage of its purpose. I set sail on my usual route with the plant to walk the last mile to the end. That way, Elly would get plenty of leisurely sniff time, and I had plenty of time to stroll and enjoy the lovely morning! Even though I have a route specific to the distance I needed to run, this felt like a better plan.

And, it was!

Oh, yes ... that's a quarter you see!! All in all, this route
produced an impressive 31 cents!! Elly looks patient here, by
the way, but she had tons of ants in her pants. She was ready
to GO GO GO!!

Don't you love when in the middle of
nowhere there's a random flower growing?
I was checking it out when I felt a vehicle
slowing down near me ...

Even Elly knew who that was ...

It's our friend Juli! With nothing on the
run agenda but to finish eventually, you
bet I stopped to talk! WAHOO!

Eventually, Juli had places to go and peole to see, so we went
about our separate biz. On my stroll to the day's finish, Elly
and I cut through a parking lot. Given the frequency of coming
upon seasonal road kill, you know this site was a bit startling
from afar. Never has tomato sauce given me such relief.

It's only a coincidence that her tongue is out. No tomato
sauce for the hound. It's merely a, "I love my dog so very
much" pic that interrupted her from her nose-to-the-ground
adventures!

I'd say there was absolutely nothing noteworthy about the run itself, but that really wouldn't be true. It's totally noteworthy that I went at all! No matter how much fun I usually manage to find in this crazy activity, its foundation is still work, and there was a time it wouldn't have happened at all. Therefore, I don't downplay any time I get out there. Not one. Nor should you no matter what it is you choose to do!! Every time you make the effort, it counts, and you should be proud!

Speaking of counting ... have you checked out the Food Bank total recently? I'm only $1.08 (not counting the $20) away from finding the same amount of money as I found in total last year!! Cha-CHING !!! Am I too optimistic to think I might double the donation?? At this pace, I will do exactly that!! We'll have to see. I'm not in control of what's being left around on the ground. I am in control of making the effort to find it, though, so I'll be back at it on my next running day either Saturday or Sunday! I'll give that a ponder on tomorrow's Rest Day! See you then!

I Ran IT

I recently saw this picture on Facebook. It grabbed my attention because I now have enough years of running behind me* that I can compare the running vs. non-running days, compare the patterns of how those days start, how I feel for the duration of the day and attribute with some consistency why I feel the way I do. So, after a hard middle of the day yesterday, I was excited knowing today would start with a run.

* Seriously, that was a weird thing to say. Have I mentioned I hated running as a sport in and of itself when I was young? And, by young, I mean birth-late 30s. I think I'm going to have to think about how long I've been running compared to how long I did other activities in my life. We'll start with that really sad, couldn't-be-cut-from-a-rec-league-to-the-coach's-dismay season of softball in fourth grade ...

I wasn't in a mood for nor against a run this morning, so the run-it-or-it-runs-you directive was a nice way to anchor it on knowing I was about to start the day off with something very positive and, almost always, very good! I even got a break on the weather with the rain/snow mix blowing outta here just in time for Elly and I to get to run outside!

"We got out of here fast so we didn't have to listen to you
whine about using your treadmill" say the sassy snowflakes.

It was chilly, there was no money found and there were puddles -- oh, were there puddles -- to avoid. But, it was good. Oh, and check this out:

That's grass that's had about enough of the
recent rain. Upright, that grass is 2 feet
tall! That thing that looks like a hole is
really only the center of where the grass
collectively surrendered.

This cold weather can't possibly last, can it?! I mean, now that we're out of (what I consider) the zone where we're chilled all the way through and into (what I consider) perfect running weather, I'll take this for a while. But, it's going to turn. And, I will then be pretty hosed and all of my enthusiasm for my current all-systems-firing status will implode while I acclimate to the always-makes-me-feel-like-a-slug warmer temps!!

Tomorrow's another running day! I'll see you after!

Outta My Way

Ahh, Rest Day. Some days, not so restful! But, not only did I get to start it off with a very fun breakfast chat with a dear friend, but I also was able to sneak in some surf-around-the-running-sites time. Really, I can't complain even though all of the stuff in between got in the way of my fun. Kind of like this pic says:

Seriously, the junk that had to be taken care of in between my fun was a total buzz kill of the buzz I'm still on about this virtual run thing!! AND, just a little bit ago, I finally filled PC#2 in on the plan I made for her to participate! (The way I see it is I made her, so I can tell her what to do sometimes!)

OF COURSE she was all in ... see?

HOW CAN YOU NOT BE EXCITED ABOUT A RUN WITH
THE WORD CUPCAKE IN IT?!

It will be totally fun to do this with her! She doesn't need to commit to a distance until after I wrap up the Go Girl event. At this point, she's thinking a 10K which is super-stinkin' awesome since her longest run to date is a 5K!! And, it turns out she's a lot like her mama ... the run itself was a fun idea ... but to get cupcake bling put a sparkle in those eyes!! AND, did I already mention I'm routing us to end at a local cupcake shop?! YEAH, I AM!! The home-grown run is going to be crazy-customized!!

There are miles to be run between now and then, though, so I'm back at it tomorrow!! I'll see you after Elly and I tear it up out there! ("Tear it up" ... it really is a subjective sport, is it not?! Yay!)

The Bling's the Thing!

HAPPY MONDAY!!!! (I warned you yesterday that I was already stoked for Monday's run, so that brand of happy should not have been a surprise!) With the sun shining on a 40-degree morning, you know there was a very happy duo out running this morning!

Before I get to that, I want to offer a couple of summary thoughts on Boston. There are so many different aspects to it, and every individual felt them in their own ways. There is one aspect to it that permeated my mind and my heart, and there is probably no more concise way to say it than to copy and paste what I just posted on a friend's Facebook page. She posted the article, "The People Who Watch Marathons," (all linked up if you want to see it) to which I said the following:

Seriously brought tears to my eyes. She hit it on the head. Every, single run I've done has been about the whole picture -- the runners AND those cheering. It's about BOTH. And, while the runners are giving it everything they have, most in the crowd are giving from the heart -- so many admit they don't "get it" yet know it means something to the runners, so they *give of themselves*. Great article, thank you for posting on behalf of all who cheer.

I also must give a nod to my very favorite singer of all time for his attendance and performance at Fenway on Saturday!! I LOVE YOU, NEIL DIAMOND!

That being said, I bring us to the theme of the day ... Bling, baby!! I mean, check it out:

Not even drive-thru finds ... all random and fabulous!

And, of course there was this ...

Headband ... so sparkly!!

And, now, to round out the Blingy Trifecta, I have to share the whole Virtual Run situation!! It's like this: A few weeks ago, I was reading a runner's blog, and she mentioned having run a virtual 5K. I was completely intrigued, but I didn't yet take any time to investigate. Basically, on a scrap piece of paper (that I may or may not know where it is when I want it), I made note of the date I'd seen it on her blog, wrote "virtual 5K" and left it by the computer. I'm not even lying. See?

Lit by the light of the mouse ...

Then, there I was surfing around last night, and I came upon Run Find Your Happy Pace blog quite by accident, and I saw there was a virtual run registration going on for what they're calling, "The Sparkle of all Virtual Cupcake races"!!! I had to check it out!

For all that I have gathered in my very quick research, virtual runs basically work like this: There is a date declared to either run a particular distance, or the date is used as a target for you to run on-or-about. For some virtual runs, you need to submit your mileage and time at which point you are entered for random-draw prizes. For others (like this one), it's totally on the honor system. By registering, you are also sent a finisher's medal (seriously?!? Race Bling!!)! I realize that may sound weird because, frankly, you could certainly end up buying yourself a medal without actually doing the work. But WHO WANTS TO DO THAT?! Oh, and from everything that I've gathered, all of these are done for charity. So, everyone wins!

I was pulled to participate in this virtual run for two particular reasons. First, it caught my eye because it has a cupcake theme including CUPCAKE FINISHER'S BLING, and I have a girl who LOVES cupcakes! She loved cupcakes and their cuteness before cupcakes were even that cool, so this is something that runs through her veins! She also enjoys running AND just told me last week that while she's not sure she wants to run for her school again, she does want to run with me. (totally rules!) What better way to maintain the groove than by designing our own run?! You see where this is going ... I'm telling her this is what we're doing instead of asking her! Booyah!

The other reason this grabbed me is because I've been thinking long and hard about my running plans after the run in May, and there's a very, very long stretch before being able to participate in another Half (as there is already a conflict with my being able to participate in the Rock 'n' Roll event this Fall). And, the fact is, I've come to love the ebb and flow of short and long runs, and having a Half on the books has been a great way to ride that coaster without having to simply make myself.

SO, having this virtual run allows me to both impose a Half distance on myself while also being rewarded (beyond the whole health benefit side of it ... yes, indeed, very healthy, gimme the sparkle!).

There is a target date listed for this run, but it's the same weekend as the run for which I've already registered. So, that didn't make sense for me. What does make sense, though, is to tuck away the medals, PC#2 and I to set our goals, train, and run toward the end of July in our own event! AND, in icing-on-the-cake news (pun ... kind of intended) ... you remember my running friend Mary Kate who lives far away?! The one who sent me my pretty running charm before the last Half symbolizing running solidarity? SHE SIGNED UP FOR THE VIRTUAL RUN, TOO!! I sent her the link late last night when I found it, and, by this morning, she was all signed up!!! We're going to agree on a target date, and we'll go from there!!

WAHOO!! I'm seriously pumped about this (can you tell?!)! It's new and it's fun, and that's the way it should be!! The male part of the Pit Crew will be in full force that day, too!!

Years ago, I had no idea running would ever turn out to be this much fun!! I guess it's what you make of it!! Make YOUR Monday a great one, and I'll check in on tomorrow's Rest Day!

Good Stuff

So, there we were in the car sitting at a stop light when I spied with my little eye something worth bolting out and snagging. Ta-Da!

The eyeballs never rest even on Rest Day ...

I hopped back in the car not only totally proud of myself but also pleased that the light was still red. Bonus. Conversation ensued:

Me: (big, huge, proud of myself smile)
Aaron: (who was in the driver's seat, by the way) I don't even know how you identified that as a penny.
Me: (with the look) You seriously just said that to me. Me.
Aaron: My mistake. I forgot about your coin coinoscopic vision. (think: microscopic, just with a coin theme)
Me: You most certainly did.
Aaron: It's your super power.
Me: I'll take it.

I probably should have cleaned that sucker up a bit before throwing it in the Food Bank jar. Whoops.

Okay, I have two other items for the day with two very different themes. First, I found this on the Distant Runners Facebook page and loved it:

Second: I recently learned about virtual runs, and I was intrigued but hadn't yet looked into them. Just a little bit ago, though, I stumbled upon one that has an entry deadline of tomorrow, so I need to look fast ... it has a cupcake medal!!! More details to come after we look into it tonight, but I think this sounds like a fabulous mother-daughter endeavor, don't you?!

I'm SO STOKED to check into this ... almost as stoked as I was to see my event pictures from the Half to see that guy who was cranking about the lack of photographers being right there in the picture next to me!! Oh, you bet I ordered one of those!!

Tomorrow's a running day! So many good running things are going that I'm extra jazzed to hit the road! Start your week off just the way you want and need, and I'll see you after the morning run!

Still Going Strong!

In case you didn't know, Elly's not so great with the numbers. She does not understand that Running Day + 7 miles does not equal Elly joins me. She heard me get up, and she came to check out my clothes. Knowing they were running clothes, she made all kinds of assumptions. Poor puppy.

Aaron just gave her a condolence chat
ending it by telling Elly, "It's not you.
It's her."

I can't say I was entirely pleased with all morning numbers myself. Thirty three degrees toward the end of April? Really?! I'm most definitely not ready to be hot, but I'm ready to stop being so chilled.

Frost on the ol' pumpkin this morning! Pumpkin, grass,
to-ma-to, to-mah-toe ...

No matter, it was time to head out and about regardless of the temperature! (Seriously, I just that Half is going to be blazin' hot compared to how things have been going! Even if it's mid-60s, we'll be all oh-it's-so-hot even though it's perfectly lovely! I'd like an Ease Me In for $200, Alex.

As mentioned yesterday, I did all kinds of mental work today in terms of my pace. I'm finding out the same thing is happening as did when I finally settled into running in the first place: My body's going to do what my body's going to do. Translation: My regular pace has picked up, and I need to get on board with that.

This isn't a bad thing at all. It's a comfortable pace, and I'm still very much enjoying every run. I don't end them exhausted or like I have nothing left to give the rest of the day. It is, indeed, my happy pace. So, instead of fighting it today, I focused on it to understand how it feels so I have a benchmark, and I worked to learn it so I could trust it.

I know that probably sounds super weird, but I am one who has always listened to how I feel more than anything else. No particular overall time goals and certainly no imposed minute-per-mile goals nor devices telling me where I'm at. While those work for manymanymany, it's not the route I took. In fact, had I done things that way, I am certain I would have quit because I would have been running against a clock instead of for myself.

 

That being said, by today's second mile, I realized my goal today was to let go and listen. And not step on the opossum I didn't see when I truck let me cross the street and I was running straight into the sun. And to not step on the dead mouse on the sidewalk that I really, really didn't see. And to pick up all of the pennies I found except for the one tarred into the street:

I HATE when this happens!

It was on my second long run after last year's GO! Half where I tanked out on pursuing the Half in May. Today's run: Total success. If nothing else, I'll be at least one long run ahead of last year. WaHoo!!

And, because of today, the Food Bank is 4 cents richer!

I could only pick up three, but I'm putting
another in the bank representing the other!

My end point today was about a half mile away from home, and check out who I saw coming my way as I was on my cool down walk?!

It's the one-man Diet Coke brigade on his way to fill 'em up!

It was pretty cool seeing him not just for the inherent reason of seeing him, but also because I could find out the time. While not stuck on time, I do need to periodically check in and see what my pace is doing so I know if I'm being consistent or if I've just gone through a fluke phase or what. Outcome: I was well under my time plan, so this faster pace seems here to stay. Good to know!

Here's one more thing that's beyond good. Check out this vision of beauty!

Yum. Shoes are working out well which
is fabulous since they look smashing with
my shoe laces!

Tomorrow is a Rest Day! And, you know that calls for a YAHOO!!! I'll check in then! In the meantime, enjoy every part of your weekend!

So thankful, and praying for Boston's healing.

My Run, My Way!

Hellooooooo, Friday!! Normally a Rest Day, this morning was used to log the miles I didn't run yesterday because I'm a baby about both rain and the treadmill. Just being real. So, this morning was onward and outward!

I'm trying not to complain too much about the weather. By this time last year, it was much warmer, and, let's face it, the warmer it is, the less pleasant the run especially toward the end. Even for those of us who do enjoy getting our sweat on, heat can still be a hindrance. That being said, how many times can I revisit the theme, "All 35-degree mornings are not created equal"? A few weeks ago, 35 degrees was freezing because it was windy, and like an idiot I ran in shorts. Last week, there was a 35-degree morning, and I overdressed because the number was cold, but there was no wind. Today, 35 degrees in the sun seemed okay ... but, you guessed it, the wind trumped all.

In summary: Brrrr!!

Bangs. By Wind Blown

But, ba-da-bing!

The well has been a little more dry as of
late ... made up for it today!

I was bound and determined to take this morning's run as easy as possible. In very large part, I'm working to train my brain to calm down and take the runs easy. If I get too excited about the possibility of doing another Half this soon, I risk the great probability that I'll get overly confident that I can just blow through it (seriously?), I'll hit a wall during these training runs, and the possibility of turning this around to the next Half will be over. That's a big part of what happened last year; I almost had a "something to prove to myself" mentality going on. This year, my focus is on, "Seriously, how cool would it be to trot through this one and see the fam including the dog along the way!"?

I also know there is no way this cold weather can hold on, so it's pretty important I train the way I will need to run when it's hotter. Most people would argue that I can always slow down later, so, right now, I need to go faster. That's where it's awesome that I'm the only one in charge of me: I know I can always slow down if I need to, but I can't always slow down my mind.

Translation: Going faster now only to need to slow down later for any reason will require a ton of mental work on the actual day. I will have to spend time not only reminding myself to do it but to also not unintentionally put myself down for doing so. Oh, I know me, and I know that would be part of the equation. So, since I know my mind is what works harder than anything at that distance, I know I'm in tune with exactly what I need to be doing right now.

Besides, if I'm too lightening fast HA!, could I possibly fulfill my idea of taking Elly along with me during a stretch of the run? Oh, yes, my brain has been working on how to make this particular run fantastic!

"I will join you for however long you want, mommy, as long
as I get my end-of-run kisses then, too."

Oh, and while I'm still pondering doing it at all, Aaron received in writing from the race director that I can upgrade my registration on race day itself. (Yes, Aaron emailed, not me. He was at his computer, and I was too busy falling up some stairs and hurting my fingers and toes in the process. We all have our daily endeavors. I'm fine, by the way.)

After this fine, Friday run, I had to stop by Subway to get breakfast. And, lunch. They're doing a buy-one-get-one 6" before 9 a.m. all this month, don'tcha know, so that is a super score!

AND I found a penny in line. Excellent!

I ate breakfast, and Elly napped. Walking from the kitchen to another room dejected about not getting any Subway (even though I left it in the car when I stopped to get a Diet Coke and returned to her merely sniffing toward the back seat but not tearing into my meals) exhausted her.

Lesson of the day: Stick to what you know is right for you regardless of what others might think. Besides, those with the input don't have to do what they're suggesting. You do. And, you know what to do, so go on with your bad self, and I'll see you after the morning run!

Still praying for Boston

Good Advance Plan

That little cloud read my mind!

We'll be back at it for today's run tomorrow! See you then!

On We Go

The forecast for this morning was for rain. It turns out, the forecast was wrong to the delight of many ... to the man who would have but now didn't need to set up the treadmill, to the big, baby runner who refuses to run in the rain, and to the pooch who looks forward to every, single morning run. She kept coming to our room to check on me once she knew I was awake. She was making sure the running clothes were going on. Then, she was at my feet once I emerged from our room. She wasn't taking any chances of being left behind.

"Ohh, mooooommmmmyyyyy ... I have
a great ideaaaaaa !!"

"I'm going to act all nonchalant, but, if
you needed to know, the running place
is right there just on the other side of
this window ... Follow me!"

Just an aside: For all of her determination to make sure she's included, you'd think she'd settle down for me to put on her leash instead of engaging in the extraordinary amount of tomfoolery she performs before finally putting her waggy butt to the ground so I can hook her up. Just sayin'.

Finally out the door, we were on our way. I was actually very thankful for the opportunity to run outside. Just me and Elly. Dare I say, as it should be.

And, things felt good. Very Nancy-Elly normal. We saw the cool stuff that kept me going when I first started running:

Remember how awesome it was to find
these as a kid? PC#2 just had that
experience in our yard a few days ago,
too!! Funny how random onion weeds
can be so delightful!

We saw the friendly groundskeeper who is just as happy to see us as we are to see him. You know how people are 'regulars' at restaurants? This path-crossing is exactly that. I love when that happens.

Normalcy continued as we scored the cash:

The bottom one has major stories to tell because it's actually
warped! I'll add that to my damaged goods pile and put one
the Food Bank can actually use in the bank!

We waited at lights. We came upon sidewalks that were closed. We avoided puddles. Or, we didn't because we didn't see them coming (that gets in the way of looking for money, you know). My mind focused and it wandered, it just depended on the moment.

And, of course, Elly didn't just overstep a paw on her leash as she often does. Today, she went for broke:

Don't even ask because I have no idea ...

We logged our miles. Elly got her "great job" hugs, and she gave me her "I totally love you" eyes and wags.

It was a very good run, indeed!

Running's on the schedule for tomorrow, but so is the rain, so I'm playing it by ear. Friday's forecast is clear, so I'm pushing the run off 'til then if necessary! Nancy likes the outside!!! I'll check in tomorrow with the report ... it's going to be good any way you slice it! See you then!

Race Shirt Tuesday

Facebook for me is like I remember the morning paper was for my dad -- just a good way to start the day. (That he was catching up on local and world news and I'm catching up with my friends is not to be debated!) This morning, I didn't have time to log on, therefore, I missed the Facebook memo from the I Love To Run page suggesting this as Race Shirt Tuesday. The post reads: A movement is sweeping across social media - to show your support, wear a race shirt today. Let the world know, we stand with our runners, volunteers, medics, supporters, race directors and anyone else who is a part of our great support. While it will not change what happened yesterday - we can rally together to heal.

After reading this post, I wandered to the closets and dressers of my family. You've seen the shirts. I've talked about what they represent. And, holy cow, yesterday really drove that home.

'Still praying for Boston. And, tomorrow, we run.

Boston

Almost immediately after waving to my family when I run an official race, I start to pray. I pray that my run is physically safe ... no falling down, no twisting anything, no causing problems in a dense field of people. I pray for a good run, that I feel good about my effort from beginning to end. I say prayers of thanks that I am physically able and mentally strong to take the endeavor on. I pray in thanks that I am supported and given the time to participate. I pray that my family has a great time on their own adventures while they wait for me whether they have time to enjoy a full meal or have just enough time to sneak into a coffee house on their way to skiddoo-ing to catch me at the finish line.

Never have I ever thought to focus prayer on the safety of the fans nor even of the runners at the finish line. What's happening in Boston is inexplicable. As I told Aaron just a little bit ago, I don't even yet know where to put the flood of feelings I have. But, I do feel like I want to throw up a little bit.

I listened as NBC's Brian Williams did a beautiful job describing what those 26.2 miles mean in terms of dreams. Might I add what they mean in terms of effort. Decisions. Determination. Heart. Family.

Unbelievable. For me, unrelatably relatable.

Please take a moment to pray for all of those in Boston.

What the ...?

Alright, so there I was yesterday running along my first half mile when I found two pennies. I thought to myself, "Wow, that didn't take long!"

Then, there I was running along my fourth mile when I looked down, saw what I saw and thought, "That didn't take long, either."

Ohhhhhh, hell no.

I could not believe my eyeballs. My lovely, very comfy saucy shoes already failed me!! This is the exact spot where my big toe hits. I saw that it was wearing underneath before heading out, but it never dawned on me the mesh wouldn't hold up at this stage of the game. Had I already put a few hundred miles on them, okay. But, three weeks and less than 100 miles? This was ridiculous!

Also ridiculous was spending the next mile and a half focused only on my toe position keeping them curled down so as not to blow right through the top of the shoe. Total. Drag. It's a good thing there was a Diet Coke waiting for me at the end of this crazy run!

For as spastic as I get about shoes and trusting them, I was uncharacteristically calm. I figured there was no way the company wouldn't work with me on them. I still had the receipt (yahoo!), still had the box (another yahoo!) and I had faith it would work out.

Spoiler alert: It totally worked out!

Once we got home from our bagel and game time, Aaron called the store from which I bought the shoes just in case they would work with us instead of having to contact Saucony. We figured they'd say we had to contact the company, but it was worth a shot.

Me: Why does this shoe thing have to be such a pain?
Aaron: Because you value your money more than you value your shoes.
Me: Ahh ... true.

It turned out to not only be worth calling, but the store manager did absolutely everything a customer could want. We took the shoes in for her to see, she totally validated that this hole (plus some other wear that was happening on the other shoe) should not have been happening, and we were free to swap them for either the same shoe or for whatever shoe we wanted (price adjustment up or down applicable). And, if there's another break-down problem, whether the same or different brand, we can bring them back, and she'll work with us.

Are you kidding me? It was that simple?? It was. I wanted to hug her! But, I didn't.

At that point, Aaron and I became experts (haha) at shoe assessment. The conclusions were drew were (a) the mesh of my fabulous hot pink shoes was much wider than any other shoe I've owned, and (b) while we could swap for the same shoe without risk, we were reasonably certain the break through would happen again. I've had some wear like that on shoes before, but it usually takes a year to even begin, and it's only ever been some wear. As in, evidence that a toe is under there. Kind of like when a wallet finally permanently imprints on someone's back pocket. I've never had a toe actually break through, and I just accepted that the structure of this shoe is not meant for my foot.

Me: (eyeballing the beauty of the saucy hot pink shoes that were still there in my size) Well, what do you think?
Aaron: I honestly think it's going to happen again.

MAN!

So, the shoe hunt games began! (A particular shout-out to Aaron who could not have been more patient while I searched. He's the kind of dude who will hang out and hold my purse and not be a turd about it while he also looks around for shoes appealing to me. He rocks.) We spent a lot of time comparing the toe mesh of many shoes to figure out what we should be considering, and we definitely found patterns of look and feel of those that have worked for me in the past when I was blissfully unaware that this was an issue I should even consider or otherwise ever discuss.

Here's the reveal of what I sincerely hope is a long-term winner!

Very summer chic, don't you think?!

They totally passed the mesh test. It's tighter than even the
mesh I have on the beloved Asics I was wearing.

Aaron was fabulous and full of patience still holding my purse as I tried them on and jogged around the store (yeah, I'm that person). They felt different, but they felt really good! And, of foremost assessment, there was no slippage in the heel area. (Years ago, that factor was my first experience picking the wrong shoe. I've been a bit paranoid ever since about my shoe-selecting skills. Yeah, that's when and why all of this started.)

 

In other good news, these were $10 less expensive than the pretty pink ones. Cha-ching! Back into the purse Aaron was still holding for me!

 

AND, in extra bonus material, they'll look fabulous with the many shoe lace options I have -- important when PC#2 just gave me new ones at Easter. See?

Out. Standing.

Let's not forget the headband I just bought at the Expo:

I'm like a fashionista. Oh, and the candy stick? I just put that
there because it, too, looked fabulous with the shoes! You
gotta have fun!

Seriously ... running ... put on your shoes, and head out the door, right? Evidently not! Tomorrow's the first go with the new kicks!! Let's hope the shoe evaluation discussions start to diminish from here! Thanks for hanging in there -- hopefully my trials over something seemingly so basic help you feel more normal when you trial-and-error different aspects of your endeavors! Keep persevering, and I'll see you after the morning run!