tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-53001696402200797922024-03-12T20:07:54.769-04:00Tiny Thunder RunningJodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02318222672284772370noreply@blogger.comBlogger299125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5300169640220079792.post-70169362726581238862023-03-12T11:32:00.003-04:002023-03-12T11:32:38.557-04:00Into the woods<p> Every week since I updated the look here, I keep telling myself I will write. Somehow life (or sleep) gets in the way and I never sit down to get started on anything. </p><p>Early last week, Bryan suggested that we take our long run to the Appalachian Trail and of course I agreed immediately. He knows how much I love running trails, especially the AT, and even more so, starting at Boiling Springs. I have a history with the AT, so running there always feels a little like home when we are able to run there. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi23DrxOag1UoBWBbwWbJ8Xsdp_VddKleq1aq40Ngd2dyM0Cs2zN7xKuVjJ1ZBI2c3a3nfM21M-0k-yugXJtKjGbn3n4XwvPGccUW5qhmXmVGuywHQhaXx7T4u6pSvJxorY2DKZhrfOvx1x_XgVWcybS14EbtoPVv26X2E5i24h84rjSkGurlsVD7vy9Q/s4032/IMG_0521.HEIC" imageanchor="1" 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/AVvXsEi23DrxOag1UoBWBbwWbJ8Xsdp_VddKleq1aq40Ngd2dyM0Cs2zN7xKuVjJ1ZBI2c3a3nfM21M-0k-yugXJtKjGbn3n4XwvPGccUW5qhmXmVGuywHQhaXx7T4u6pSvJxorY2DKZhrfOvx1x_XgVWcybS14EbtoPVv26X2E5i24h84rjSkGurlsVD7vy9Q/w400-h300/IMG_0521.HEIC" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Some areas had a little snow Friday and it was evident that the trail was sprinkled with a tiny amount- just enough to feel slightly magical. It's been a super mild winter here in PA, so we get excited every time we see even a flurry of snow. </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/AVvXsEj2DVBpQLDXm4F3xXAXfqC6FM7pswBC_OkzYyZUoY9RhzH7AOyi_aYilFSitUtMYA4uz3oZlZkGPFZjjL0_Gjo_CTQ679vJ1jqNCbcEUJWZiO-R0na-yT46Ru4ueW3-BGr9MQMnchOr4Hf-XIzSb1nMQe-EuqQj52Z189hN8C5ClElrhQuJen-3ZDequg/s4032/IMG_0522.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2DVBpQLDXm4F3xXAXfqC6FM7pswBC_OkzYyZUoY9RhzH7AOyi_aYilFSitUtMYA4uz3oZlZkGPFZjjL0_Gjo_CTQ679vJ1jqNCbcEUJWZiO-R0na-yT46Ru4ueW3-BGr9MQMnchOr4Hf-XIzSb1nMQe-EuqQj52Z189hN8C5ClElrhQuJen-3ZDequg/w300-h400/IMG_0522.HEIC" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">There was no shortage of fun little fan mushrooms so I could not resist the urge to stop for a few photo ops. It seemed like they were doing some cleanup after the frequent high winds we have had lately, so I did see some areas with cut-down trees waiting to be hauled away. The crews that take care of maintaining the AT do a fantastic job to make sure everyone can safely enjoy the trails year-round. </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/AVvXsEjjlRD-9l59ryeoZlXC_icMyAyn4vmwXTwomuJUoLwTT2uUJsR1h-dNsfflJJR1ZWQCQpkSoQDYn1xtUxF3p1OUMNY61jyi54w8Nhp4oVko8-tFLlGpGPj5slkfLaVj4m3Cz-cj9Hi6hH9hg6liHHuQLfd5d5l7li5pEmn_hSa6efY3XTR1myEfC9L3ow/s3088/IMG_0524.HEIC" imageanchor="1" 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/AVvXsEjjlRD-9l59ryeoZlXC_icMyAyn4vmwXTwomuJUoLwTT2uUJsR1h-dNsfflJJR1ZWQCQpkSoQDYn1xtUxF3p1OUMNY61jyi54w8Nhp4oVko8-tFLlGpGPj5slkfLaVj4m3Cz-cj9Hi6hH9hg6liHHuQLfd5d5l7li5pEmn_hSa6efY3XTR1myEfC9L3ow/s320/IMG_0524.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">At mile 4, which was my halfway point for the run, I snapped a quick picture to send to a dear friend, Katie. During a run that simultaneously feels like yesterday and a lifetime ago, we stopped here to do planks and snap a picture for a challenge she was participating in at the time. I'm pretty sure it was the day we were in matching shorts, but I can't find the picture right now.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After I took that picture, I headed back toward Boiling Springs for the breakfast we always look forward to at the end of long runs there. Bryan was running 10 miles, but because he runs quicker than me, I knew he would eventually catch up to me. I kept running and tried to see how far I would get before that happened. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I was approaching mile 6 when I heard a familiar sniffle from behind me. I called out to him to tell him that and we both laughed. He stayed with me the last two miles and of course, they ended up being my fastest all morning. Finally in my groove after I hit the halfway point, we enjoyed the last miles before making it back to the car where we added warm clothes and stretched our bodies after a job well 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/AVvXsEhcflqbhipRSrSxZ01UZGzeJ_uECiOphcQJS5HXq9DLtIC-BYVM18v-D5s7dDpt2oHDgxA_IiQuuYRjIICiQ3mfwmxn1CvE9UKOrA0qk3HkR4NSbbIRYxEOW3bRqnlwLijHBI_zUcP2yEyAMu_cyS7GJPOl5r3GRl9E6o24eoL9gwccW6a3uIkHoc454g/s3088/IMG_7853.heic" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2320" data-original-width="3088" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcflqbhipRSrSxZ01UZGzeJ_uECiOphcQJS5HXq9DLtIC-BYVM18v-D5s7dDpt2oHDgxA_IiQuuYRjIICiQ3mfwmxn1CvE9UKOrA0qk3HkR4NSbbIRYxEOW3bRqnlwLijHBI_zUcP2yEyAMu_cyS7GJPOl5r3GRl9E6o24eoL9gwccW6a3uIkHoc454g/w400-h300/IMG_7853.heic" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We did snap an obligatory picture as we left the woods, celebrating our miles and a great morning on the trails. </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/AVvXsEjV2Y3c3DvSzxesHUhpg6o00HLy7w59fDj1dtNrqsdMdYaZ-M3gzvUuRPd6fBvVDOubl32147wc6csIA6YbsfRl25Gp1Go1bKIlPdSFJ3Wp6Lf6D6uPe8ASX_bbNGt5yHbyb6ZIKm5jiHwN-dx-I2ihvIaUSWA8fHNyeKPpJbh3NJ1VapvhluD3LE4NeA/s4032/IMG_0525.HEIC" imageanchor="1" 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/AVvXsEjV2Y3c3DvSzxesHUhpg6o00HLy7w59fDj1dtNrqsdMdYaZ-M3gzvUuRPd6fBvVDOubl32147wc6csIA6YbsfRl25Gp1Go1bKIlPdSFJ3Wp6Lf6D6uPe8ASX_bbNGt5yHbyb6ZIKm5jiHwN-dx-I2ihvIaUSWA8fHNyeKPpJbh3NJ1VapvhluD3LE4NeA/s320/IMG_0525.HEIC" 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 trails were wet and a little mushy in some places, but overall not bad. I want to get better at sharing these everyday moments type runs, rather than waiting to write about races or big events as I have primarily done in the past. Honestly, our running "careers" are not made in those events, but rather, in our everyday training which includes struggles and wins that are often never seen by others. The early morning speed workouts or strength sessions and the long run efforts put in each week are what make the races even possible for our bodies. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My goal this year is to share more of life and what happens between the races. I am putting that out there in an attempt to hold myself to this and make more space for writing and sharing through this blog. My hope is to also look in the rearview mirror a bit as well because I have not written here in so long that life has changed quite dramatically and I think it will be fun to reflect and share a little about that journey as well. </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;">Until next time... </div>Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02318222672284772370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5300169640220079792.post-28193553431586960672023-02-24T08:05:00.002-05:002023-02-24T08:05:12.467-05:00.. Dusting off<p> Please bare with me as I revamp the blog. I am finally back in a place where I am wanting to share my running/other life experience-type things and with that, I feel it is only appropriate to give this place an updated look. It has been close to 5 years since I have shared a thing here- mostly resorting to insta for random updates at best, so it's time!</p><p><br /></p><p>I look forward to writing and sharing more of the happenings of life. </p>Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02318222672284772370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5300169640220079792.post-946655011042140622018-09-07T07:26:00.002-04:002018-09-07T07:26:59.554-04:00Labor Pain 2018- mud and other adventuresThe fall (ish) race season is in full swing which gives me regular reasons to sit down and write... you're welcome.<br />
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This past weekend, I joined many others at the starting line for Labor Pain 12 hour endurance race for the second year. (You can read about last year's nonsense <a href="http://www.tinythunder-running.com/2017/09/12-hour-labor-pain.html" target="_blank">here</a>.) I didn't really have any lofty goals other than to complete the 50k distance. This seemed like the most reasonable plan since my training has been a little all over the place this year. About a month ago I realized Labor Pain was fast approaching and, although I completed weekly runs of up to 15 miles, I decided I better get my butt in gear and run at least one 20-miler prior to race day. I was able to get the miles in and felt a little more prepared for a 50k.<br />
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Since the race kind of snuck up on me, that means I also waited until a few days before the race to confirm carpooling, food and packing all my stuff. Like last year, Brad, Bekah and I drove together. Also like last year, we met around 5:00 AM to load the car and make the drive to Reading, PA where the race is held at <a href="https://www.readingliederkranz.com/" target="_blank">Reading Liederkranz</a>. Once we arrived, we grabbed our bibs and swag before setting up "camp" for the day.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Tank top swag. Not pictured: pint glass with the logo!</td></tr>
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After last year, the small group of us decided we were going to try to have more runners from our area join us- we succeeded!! We had a really nice showing of Harrisburg/Carlisle area runners so we saw plenty of familiar faces throughout the day.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Most of the crew</td></tr>
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<br />This year it was announced that there was less space to set up tents, but we got there early enough that we were able to claim a decent space. It's really nice to have a home base at these types of events. Since we run all day, we pack snacks, extra clothes, water, and all kinds of other stuff we (probably don't) need. Having a home base allows us all to have a place to come back to when we need to grab water, fuel or just take a load off for a few minutes.<br />
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We were supposed to attend the "pre-race meeting" at 7:15 AM. This is where Ron from <a href="https://www.pretzelcitysports.com/" target="_blank">Pretzel City Sports</a> explains how the course is marked, things to be careful of, and gets everyone all pumped up to run stupid amounts of mileage during the 12 hour period. I say supposed to because, in reality, this meeting actually started at 7:30 AM instead and the race started about 15 minutes after. </div>
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It was super humid already at the race start so we knew it would be a challenging day. As we got ready to start, I was a little nervous because I had been nursing some soreness in the tendon next to my shin bone on my right leg. This pain was, funny enough, similar to that of my injury earlier this year but on my other leg. I rested most of the week and then used KT tape and a calf sleeve on race day to hopefully keep any issues from occurring during the race. Thankfully, my body cooperated and carried me around the 5 mile loop a little over 6 times so that I could run the 50k distance for the day. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">First loop shot. I can tell because it's the only time I wore my shirt.</td></tr>
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For me, the first loop was more about reacquainting myself with course and getting a feel for how my body was functioning in the ridiculous weather. Thankfully, the sky stayed overcast for most of the day and I didn't have to deal with the extra heat. The first loop basically flew by and before I knew it, I was back at the start/finish line. I removed my sweat soaked tank top, grabbed more water, hit the bathroom and then headed off to start loop 2.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Like last year, I took a photo every 10 miles. This was the first.</td></tr>
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At the beginning of loop 3, I ended up talking to a woman who I deemed to be a little crazy but a lot badass. To start each loop, you run out of the parking lot and onto the road. You then have to cross the street and run up a paved hill. If I'm being honest, I think I actually walked that dumb hill almost every single loop. On this particular trek up the hill and as we entered the woods, this woman told me how she was making a second (third?) attempt at an ultra. What happened at the others, you ask? She had seizures. She told me each time she tried to run longer distances, she had seizures at mile 13. She was beyond excited that she was now at mile 15+ and hoped that this meant she was safe. I was equally scared and excited for her. The seizures were a recent development since she started going through menopause and it seemed that putting on some weight while working with her doctors might have finally fixed her problem! I told her a few times how amazing she was for being so determined to achieve her goal of running an ultra.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">I think I freaked the guy out behind me! </td></tr>
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As you may be aware, Pennsylvania's summer has been wet, hot, and humid. Sometimes all at the same dang time. I am definitely on team OVER IT, but our crazy weather did make this course a pretty awesome level of muddy. The picture above was maybe a mile into the course and brought a smile to my face every time I passed through it. When I saw the photographer there on loop 4, obviously I had to be a little dramatic!! There were some other fun muddy spots on the course, but I am pretty sure this one was the best. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Dripping sweat at mile 20</td></tr>
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After much procrastinating over going back out, I finally left the comfort of my chair and made my way back out to the course. My last two loops I was accompanied by badass ultra runner <a href="https://aroadrunnerstrail.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Jeremy</a>. I don't get to run with him often, but it is always a pleasure to share miles with him. During these miles, he told me about some ultra trail running superstars as well as exchanging our fall race line-ups. It helped pass the time and even if I did still complain a lot about how miserable it was, Jeremy stuck with me and kept me entertained.<br />
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In hindsight, I realize I could have definitely made it another full loop or more had I not felt so defeated by the heat and humidity that day. As much as I thought about running those extra 5-10 miles, I also didn't want to end up hurting myself. I have other races and running-related obligations and I didn't want to think about missing them because of another injury. That being said, I am happy with getting those miles in and testing my body once again to do crazy things and see how it reacts. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">All done- 31-ish miles in about 7 hours and 57 minutes</td></tr>
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At the end of the day, I was dirty, hungry, and a tad smelly. During loop 5 with Jeremy, we were eyeing up a nice looking stream as a possible cool off spot. It was shaded and looked like a nice place to unwind for a few minutes once we were done. After we completed the last miles of the day, we returned to our little camp area to sit for a few minutes and then headed to the stream. Jeremy decided to drive us over and we quickly laughed at how badly we smelled. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Absolutely beautiful. Incredibly refreshing.</td></tr>
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After we had our fill of cold water, we headed back to the race area to get cleaned up and put on some clean, dry clothes. I wish I would have snagged a picture, but there was a fun "shower" situation hooked up by the race director which really was useful to help clean off some of the mud that I had collected over those 31+ miles. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">How about those tan lines?</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">These shoes were new and spotless at the start</td></tr>
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<br />All in all, I'd say I had another good experience at Labor Pain. I will not-so patiently be waiting for my "premium" as they call it at this race. Basically what that means is your finisher shirt with your distance on it as long as you finished 26.2 miles or above. The race director sets milestone distances such as the 50k, 40 mile, 50 mile, etc that they will put on your shirt. If you finish less than that distance, your shirt will not indicate your distance. What better incentive to run all of the miles? This year it is a hoodie which is perfect because I live in them all winter.<br />
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Labor Pain was, once again, a great time. The food spread is wonderful.. HELLO CHEESEBURGERS, the volunteers are so friendly and helpful, and the race is pretty inexpensive especially since you can run all day. Guess I better start figuring out my goal for next year.. another shot at 50 miles? Highly possible. Stay tuned...</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Have you ever gone into a race semi-injured and just hoped for the best? </i></span></div>
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Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02318222672284772370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5300169640220079792.post-75765234881742127342018-08-27T06:45:00.000-04:002018-08-29T18:39:11.401-04:00I'm a (trail) ragnarianAfter a super long hiatus, here I am!! Over the winter and early spring, I was sidelined by an injury and had to go to PT. After missing all my spring races and so many miles, I have picked up training and am getting back into the racing scene again---- I couldn't be more thrilled. I know that running isn't all about the races, but they sure are FUN!!!<br />
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About two months or so ago, a friend mentioned that a Ragnar team had couple people drop and were looking for replacements. I was a little tentative at first because I had already registered my nephew and I for a 5k on Saturday of the same weekend Ragnar would be held. I spoke with the team captain, and she said she would make sure I would be done with my part of the relay and could get home in time to run the 5k as well. Sure, sign me up!!!<br />
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At the time, the event seemed so far away and then suddenly, I was rushing around trying to make sure I didn't forget to pack anything! Having never done a relay style race before, I was nervous about the time in between my legs and fueling all weekend. I packed stuff for sandwiches, some snacks, and lots of coffee.. and let's be honest, beer to celebrate the completion of each loop!<br />
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On Thursday, our crew left around 11:00 am so that we could arrive around the time we were allowed into the campground. There were two areas to camp out- the woods, and not. We wanted to the woods! We had two teammates who brought hammocks to sleep in and the rest of us would camp out in tents. Thankfully, we got there in plenty of time to claim a nice camping spot for the weekend. We spent the evening getting settled and exploring what would be our home for the next few days.<br />
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The event started at 8:00 am on Friday and teams started in waves based on team paces. Our team got to start at 8:30 am, so we all gathered around to cheer on our first runner as she took off. We had 8 team member and the basic set up is that one team member is out on a trail at a time, rotating through the Green, Yellow, and Red trails until everyone completed each.<br />
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My first loop was on yellow. Spoiler alert: it was GORGEOUS. This loop was about 4.5 miles and took you through a ridiculous amount of ferns. I have never seen anything like it in my life. I knew I had to take a quick moment to acknowledge their beauty before I continued on.<br />
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As the elevation climbed, I found myself in awe of these tall pines. They just seemed to go on and on forever and definitely caught my eye, much like the ferns. I was on the trail maybe 30 minutes at this point and was reminded why I took to the trails in the first place. It's so quiet and humbling to just be out there among the trees and the dirt. In these moments, nothing else really matters.<br />
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Just when I didn't think I could be more in love with this trail.. there was ... this. I couldn't help but join a few other women who had stopped to check out the dreamy view. Can you blame me? It was pretty hard to tear myself away, but I still had some miles to run. Either way, I was 100% sold on this crazy adventure.<br />
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I finished up my loop and passed our group bib off to my next team mate.<br />
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Now that I was done with my first loop, it was time to eat some food and relax because I knew it would be quite some time until my next turn to run. </div>
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They did have these awesome hammocks set up so Bekah and I snagged some time in them. It was pretty hard to leave... they were so comfortable and the sun felt so good!</div>
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Fast forward about 4 hours or so... I am anxiously awaiting my next loop.. green. This is labeled as the easiest of the loops. We had estimated times of each team member's finish time for each loop and we were expecting Bekah to return any minute. Then something REALLY fun happened. They called a 2 hour storm delay. I was pretty bummed because I had planned to run, eat and rest after this loop and now this plan had to change. I ate some of the chicken I brought along and hoped it would hold me over until the new go-time. </div>
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Our team hurried to keep as much of our stuff dry as possible and then huddled under a pop-up tent to keep as cozy and dry as we could in the mean time. Shortly after this picture, I think most everyone crawled into their tents to rest.. except me. I didn't want to risk getting more tired or even frustrated if I couldn't get to sleep so I just waited. As the 2 hours came close to ending, I wandered down to the start and waited for some positive news. Unfortunately, we were told that the race would be delayed 1 more hour while they checked out the trails to make sure everything was safe and then we could return to running.</div>
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I went back to the tent to mope and called my guy. Thankfully he let me ramble and vent a little that it would now almost be 10:30 pm by the time I went out for the last loop.. and OH. That I was starving and tired and.. the list goes on. He was wonderful and encouraging.. exactly what I needed as I waited that extra hour. Thank goodness for that phone call. Before I knew it, the hour was almost up and I again headed back to the start area to check in. </div>
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We were given the all clear and they released us in waves to run our next loops. I was so grateful to finally get to go!!! By this point, it wasn't really raining, but I wore my rain jacket in case the skies opened up again. I don't remember exactly when, but it started to POUR all over again. About 2.5 miles into the 3.5 mile loop, I thought I was losing my mind. I couldn't see clearly in front of me and thought maybe I was just tired. My second thought was that maybe my headlamp was not clear because of all the rain. Then my tired brain caught up and realized it was just fog. Realizing this did not help the fact that I could not see very far in front of where I was running and this made me nervous about tripping or falling on roots or rocks. Instead of letting this bother me too much, I kept pushing on through the pouring rain to finish my loop. In all reality, I just really wanted to eat my dinner!! </div>
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You can't really tell here, but I was a MUDDY mess. The race crew told us to run through the mud and puddles rather than around and risk expanding the trails. No problem!!!</div>
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My cold pasta dinner tasted pretty darn good after a nice hot shower and dry clothes. Even though it was cold, I had been looking forward to it all day and was happy to have it waiting for me after running in the rain. </div>
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With the three hour rain delay putting a huge wrench in the remainder of our start/finish times, different team mates had to run through the night than planned. Since I knew I didn't have to worry about my next loop for quite a few hours, I finished my "dinner" and hung out for a little bit before decided to crawl into my tent around 1:30 am for some overdue and much needed rest. Not surprisingly, I passed out quickly and slept for about 4 hours. </div>
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Since we didn't get to wear our light up unicorn horns for overnight loops as planned, we decided to wear them before the sun came up Saturday morning. Aren't we cute? It was super fun wearing unicorn garb all weekend- we made lots of extra friends!! </div>
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I quickly decided I needed some legit breakfast. Unfortunately, it wasn't really ready yet, but PIZZA was sooooooo... obviously I ordered one stat. It was completely delicious. I think it was around this time that we found out the Ragnar team was forcing everyone to double or triple up with team members on their last loops to make sure everyone got to cross the finish line on time. One more roadblock but we got our plan together and were ready to crush the rest of the day. </div>
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After my stomach was full and my brain was (mostly) awake, I decided I needed to try to figure out a way to get my shoes at least semi-dry before I ran my last loop. There were shoe dryers available but they seemed to all be full. I didn't really want to keep standing there waiting and then saw all the shoes laying by the fire. SCORE!! I grabbed myself a spot and waited (not so) patiently for them to dry by the fire. I knew they were just going to get wet and muddy again.. but there is a certain comfort in starting out in dry shoes. </div>
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Last stop: Red loop. I was originally slated to do this loop around 2:30 am, but was really glad I got to see it in the daylight. </div>
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These rocks were breath-taking for some reason. I had to stop and admire them of course!!</div>
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It is a little hard to tell by the picture, but this was a pretty big rock that we had to kind of scoot down to continue on the trail. We heard stories about this section all weekend and it was fun to finally see what the big deal was. We agreed that it would definitely be a very different challenge in the dark. </div>
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The mud was just incredible. I tried to take this while running so of course it was blurry. We had a pretty great time running through the mud and splashing through every puddle we could possibly find. </div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3SxpQQCwjdI/W4NGYVDf3iI/AAAAAAABFjM/XBjg4eT7cL8idzRyVV7x7nUmdQpER636gCKgBGAs/s1600/20180811_124841.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="778" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3SxpQQCwjdI/W4NGYVDf3iI/AAAAAAABFjM/XBjg4eT7cL8idzRyVV7x7nUmdQpER636gCKgBGAs/s400/20180811_124841.jpg" width="193" /></a></div>
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As you can tell.. I was pretty happy with my mud collection. I would 100% do that again. </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FwZRxHf3YGA/W4NMw8ggq3I/AAAAAAABFkg/HYsH7OL4-8srS2ESD9yk8mo1FEasryNQgCKgBGAs/s1600/PicsArt_08-26-08.46.46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="977" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FwZRxHf3YGA/W4NMw8ggq3I/AAAAAAABFkg/HYsH7OL4-8srS2ESD9yk8mo1FEasryNQgCKgBGAs/s320/PicsArt_08-26-08.46.46.jpg" width="195" /></a></div>
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These are by far the coolest medals ever. Each one says something really cute and they all fit together just like our awesome team. We faced quite a few challenges on this trip, but we all rallied every single time and showed up for each other. We had each other's backs no matter what. That's what it's all about. </div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e2QMg9JM-6g/W4NMw8it37I/AAAAAAABFkg/3APSXUD4x98K2kctvDD1DYNEWqQNSlkPQCKgBGAs/s1600/PicsArt_08-26-08.43.17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="790" data-original-width="1600" height="314" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e2QMg9JM-6g/W4NMw8it37I/AAAAAAABFkg/3APSXUD4x98K2kctvDD1DYNEWqQNSlkPQCKgBGAs/s640/PicsArt_08-26-08.43.17.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Freaking badass rockstars. Seriously. </div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pUdgIJpMu-I/W4NMw3FeOlI/AAAAAAABFkg/oOGfWcCJsD8eoKlOR1SPhoIaurqxu_wAgCKgBGAs/s1600/PicsArt_08-26-08.42.21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pUdgIJpMu-I/W4NMw3FeOlI/AAAAAAABFkg/oOGfWcCJsD8eoKlOR1SPhoIaurqxu_wAgCKgBGAs/s320/PicsArt_08-26-08.42.21.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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And then there was this freaking burger. The end. </div>
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<br />Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02318222672284772370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5300169640220079792.post-78597706797663428892018-01-04T06:30:00.000-05:002018-01-04T06:30:09.930-05:002017- a killer year for runningCan you believe that we made it through 2017 and here we are at the start of a new year full of new goals and possibilities?<br />
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2017 was a mixed bag for me. Running-wise it was fantastic, but other things not so much at all. Looking back at all of the things I have accomplished and all of the miles I have tackled make me feel nothing short of amazing. Incredible. Strong. BADASS. I wanted to do a quick run down of all the races I did this year. I didn't blog on all of them but I thought it would be fun. I ended up doing 18- YES EIGHTEEN races this year ranging from 1 mile to 100k (62+ miles) with a total of 1540 miles which is my highest mileage yet.<br />
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So here goes, you ready??<br />
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1. <a href="http://www.tinythunder-running.com/2017/03/squirelly-tail-131-take-three.html" target="_blank">Squirelly Tail Twail Wun</a> - 2/26/17, time 2:26:34. This was a super sweet, muddy race. The temperature was cold but not frigid and I had a course PR. I had so much fun and it was a great first race of the year for me. I plan to back in 2018 for year 4.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B-0npFYW3x8/WNA4NxV8wJI/AAAAAAAAzZM/RSpi4jxE1ykDmKEIp1fYte4TvBDqk_qkACPcBGAYYCw/s1600/FB_IMG_1488141734405.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="816" data-original-width="960" height="272" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B-0npFYW3x8/WNA4NxV8wJI/AAAAAAAAzZM/RSpi4jxE1ykDmKEIp1fYte4TvBDqk_qkACPcBGAYYCw/s320/FB_IMG_1488141734405.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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2. <a href="http://www.tinythunder-running.com/2017/03/chambersburg-half-new-windy-city.html" target="_blank">Chambersburg half</a>- 3/11/17, time 2:04:44. I had high hopes for this race and had hoped to PR and complete the race in under 2 hours. I was on target for this goal until about mile 10 where the wind and cold crushed my spirit and I was ready to just get to the finish line. Being the stubborn idiot I am, I signed up for the 2018 race the next day. I need redemption and here's to hoping I get it.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PZkKSA5HzSY/WNA84Ue_GmI/AAAAAAAAzZ8/fXPnKQU4Ork1QougElcDboi5Cf0OydHzwCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/FB_IMG_1489272027873.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="810" data-original-width="1440" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PZkKSA5HzSY/WNA84Ue_GmI/AAAAAAAAzZ8/fXPnKQU4Ork1QougElcDboi5Cf0OydHzwCPcBGAYYCw/s320/FB_IMG_1489272027873.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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3. <a href="http://www.tinythunder-running.com/2017/03/lucky-charm-10k.html" target="_blank">Lucky Charm 10k</a>- 3/18/17, time 54:17. This is a relatively new race to the area and really is just plain old fun. So many of my local running pals come out and dress up in as much green as we possibly can, run and then go for drinks/food after!! What's not to love?<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mcMQsRH4m1Q/WNBOXHvl82I/AAAAAAAAzcY/g15XNzlQorQZozIhbmUAsnMQCsKTLr6mgCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/FB_IMG_1489883498492.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mcMQsRH4m1Q/WNBOXHvl82I/AAAAAAAAzcY/g15XNzlQorQZozIhbmUAsnMQCsKTLr6mgCPcBGAYYCw/s320/FB_IMG_1489883498492.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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4. <a href="http://www.tinythunder-running.com/2017/03/my-first-marine-corps-1775k.html" target="_blank">Marine Corps 17.75k</a>- 3/25/17, time 1:50:50. I ran this race as a favor to a friend so she could have guaranteed entry to her 5th Marine Corps Marathon. She managed to be double booked to run her first 50k that day so I didn't hesitate to help her out when she asked. It was a somewhat challenging course but it was fun and I would love to do it again!!<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a8cHG5WSqv0/WNsLg-g3aKI/AAAAAAAAzrI/IRCM6HhQ5T8potLvMp9S8suKrpnyMG5yQCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/PicsArt_03-28-09.16.59.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="747" data-original-width="747" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a8cHG5WSqv0/WNsLg-g3aKI/AAAAAAAAzrI/IRCM6HhQ5T8potLvMp9S8suKrpnyMG5yQCPcBGAYYCw/s320/PicsArt_03-28-09.16.59.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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5. <a href="http://www.tinythunder-running.com/2017/04/april-fools-capital-10-miler.html" target="_blank">Capital 10 miler</a>- 4/1/17, time 1:31:23. Another local race where I got to run with all my friends! It was not my BEST time on the course, but I had run quite a few races in the weeks prior so I tried not to be too hard on myself.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QS5hAhh1Z_s/WOMA3fHl80I/AAAAAAAAz9M/g4QqkFDffoAyjjvR2YvRfxTKhPoiE2NogCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/17626627_10158372581225570_8243574979639314667_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="576" data-original-width="432" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QS5hAhh1Z_s/WOMA3fHl80I/AAAAAAAAz9M/g4QqkFDffoAyjjvR2YvRfxTKhPoiE2NogCPcBGAYYCw/s320/17626627_10158372581225570_8243574979639314667_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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6.<a href="http://www.tinythunder-running.com/2017/05/race-against-racism-5k-2017.html" target="_blank"> Race Against Racism</a>- 4/29/17, time 25:12. Although this race was a little short of a true 5k according to my watch, I felt great. It was humid but rainy and I felt pretty unstoppable.. except when I had to stop for water because I started out way too fast. Such is the struggle of the darn 5k. This race I got to do for free through work and you know I jumped on that chance.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mMhViBCbbts/WRuytzVnAyI/AAAAAAAA17E/aXbEkVg8-N018noEsR2_cnMyTHMfi5GlACPcBGAYYCw/s1600/Race%2BAgainst%2BRacism%2B2017-Race%2BAgainst%2BRacism%2B2017%2BMarti%2BAiken%2BPhotogra-0123.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mMhViBCbbts/WRuytzVnAyI/AAAAAAAA17E/aXbEkVg8-N018noEsR2_cnMyTHMfi5GlACPcBGAYYCw/s320/Race%2BAgainst%2BRacism%2B2017-Race%2BAgainst%2BRacism%2B2017%2BMarti%2BAiken%2BPhotogra-0123.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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7. <a href="http://www.tinythunder-running.com/2017/05/harpers-ferry-half-2017.html" target="_blank">Harper's Ferry Half</a>- 5/13/17. time 2:12:09. This half kicked my BUTT!! My legs felt tired from the start, but climbing those hills was killer. I remember getting done and saying that I felt like I had just completed a 50k because my legs were that WRECKED. I will definitely go back for another shot, just not sure I will make it in 2018.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kr5RmOXQcwg/WR23JeVCc_I/AAAAAAAA1_A/QlIzBURNUzUMf96eALR6gQMyDYWR4ivFACPcBGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_20170515_213245_209.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kr5RmOXQcwg/WR23JeVCc_I/AAAAAAAA1_A/QlIzBURNUzUMf96eALR6gQMyDYWR4ivFACPcBGAYYCw/s320/IMG_20170515_213245_209.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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8. Iron Run Half- 6/10/17, time 2:47:01. I somehow missed writing about this one, but it was the third year running this race. This is a great trail race which didn't go all that great for me this time. I think I needed new shoes because my legs felt terrible the first half. I hope I never miss one of these races!<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9EPEKcEHwSg/Wk2P1YLZ0BI/AAAAAAAA--4/lZXyh5z7PbcdW4LIz8mCuQqlxYVaR2tuQCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20170611_104819_247.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9EPEKcEHwSg/Wk2P1YLZ0BI/AAAAAAAA--4/lZXyh5z7PbcdW4LIz8mCuQqlxYVaR2tuQCKgBGAs/s320/IMG_20170611_104819_247.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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9. Carlisle's Summerfair 10k- 58:57:14. I didn't write about this race either for some reason. I remember it was VERY HOT and I got a terrible side stitch that just wouldn't take a hike. It was really just a training run in reality but I was still bummed it didn't go as well as I had hoped.<br />
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10. <a href="http://www.tinythunder-running.com/2017/07/the-glorious-mile.html" target="_blank">Harrisburg Mile</a>- 7/19/17, time 7:38 by the clock 7:35 by my watch. I believe my watch more. HA! This race was wild. There was a storm that rolled in and kept causing them to delay the different racing heats. We got tired of waiting and since the timing mats were still on, Bekah and I raced each other. It was amazing fun.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C8ZB3nqXFgc/WXOfT9VZLMI/AAAAAAAA43U/rWuORTMakyIUOic5u-8BGTUZ2JoADbl-gCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_20170720_071742_413.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C8ZB3nqXFgc/WXOfT9VZLMI/AAAAAAAA43U/rWuORTMakyIUOic5u-8BGTUZ2JoADbl-gCPcBGAYYCw/s320/IMG_20170720_071742_413.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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11. <a href="http://www.tinythunder-running.com/2017/07/double-trouble.html" target="_blank">Double Trouble 30k</a>- 7/23/17, time 4:12:06. This race was fantastic. We lucked out and had great weather and I felt so happy with my time. In 2016, I did one loop and thought I'd die (partially due to the smart choice to give blood a few days prior) and wouldn't have been back to do a second loop if I had wanted to. This year I came in well under the cut off to go on a second loop and was so beyond happy. I used this as a training run and just as a good test of my endurance at this point in the year.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eXs6d1MxJiM/WXeIJo3znZI/AAAAAAAA938/b1DHrz3Kt7wewlApUPeF4BLynjt2EkeUgCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/20170723_085039.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eXs6d1MxJiM/WXeIJo3znZI/AAAAAAAA938/b1DHrz3Kt7wewlApUPeF4BLynjt2EkeUgCPcBGAYYCw/s320/20170723_085039.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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12. <a href="http://www.tinythunder-running.com/2017/08/the-glorun-5k.html" target="_blank">Glo Run 5k</a>- 8/27/17, time 32:24.07. This was my yearly fun themed run with my oldest nephew, Adam. I was pretty intrigued by the glow pineapple (check it out in the post) and I think we were not disappointed. Adam really enjoyed that it was all contained at the Carlisle Fairgrounds so we may end up going back in 2018.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RQ6MDSGQWE4/WaWmCCs5PPI/AAAAAAAA6wA/GrXiWswr75UvW_6ercksbJ-CTDs6c3nCgCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/20170812_210951.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RQ6MDSGQWE4/WaWmCCs5PPI/AAAAAAAA6wA/GrXiWswr75UvW_6ercksbJ-CTDs6c3nCgCPcBGAYYCw/s320/20170812_210951.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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13. <a href="http://www.tinythunder-running.com/2017/09/12-hour-labor-pain.html" target="_blank">Labor Pain Ultra</a> - 9/3/17, time 11:07:21. This was a pivotal moment in my racing schedule this year. I used this race as a great test to see how far I could go in the allotted 12 hours. I wanted to see how I would feel after running for so long and the answer..?? INCREDIBLE. I wish I had the time to go that last loop to get to 50 miles. Even though I was tired, I was so determined and was on cloud 9 for the whole day. I cannot WAIT to run in it again in 2018.<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nmTR5_rFwDE/WcvWRHK5E_I/AAAAAAAA7q8/lfflMBtwGf4IbEAsivsSsAv9fUwm3nZggCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/20170903_192518.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nmTR5_rFwDE/WcvWRHK5E_I/AAAAAAAA7q8/lfflMBtwGf4IbEAsivsSsAv9fUwm3nZggCPcBGAYYCw/s320/20170903_192518.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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14. <a href="http://www.tinythunder-running.com/2017/10/country-roads-and-262-miles.html" target="_blank">Freedom's Run Marathon</a>- 9/30/17, time 4:25:54. TOTAL SUPER PR. Previous marathon times of just above 5 hours so I was thrilled when I crossed that finish line. There might have been tears. Don't quote me on that. Just another ounce of proof that my training and hard work was most definitely paying off.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yq8xsVyUgJc/WdQ4j-5VFpI/AAAAAAAA8U0/BR33vn85qTwG1JJKe7l4PUcrkpL2D6MVQCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/20170930_065946.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yq8xsVyUgJc/WdQ4j-5VFpI/AAAAAAAA8U0/BR33vn85qTwG1JJKe7l4PUcrkpL2D6MVQCPcBGAYYCw/s320/20170930_065946.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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15. Hershey Half Marathon- 10/15/17, time 2:02:10 which was actually a course and half PR for me by 37 seconds. Nothing crazy but I was excited to at least make a little progress in the right direction towards sub- 2 hours. It was really humid that day and even though I was running a great pace the first 6 miles with the help of a friend, I totally died for a while after and later was able to regroup and finish strong.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4ysj4JCpaRA/Wk2RkvXnhHI/AAAAAAAA-_Q/h-dvgZvad58CP_auNj89TJZyguvhpkYogCKgBGAs/s1600/Attach13955_20171015_194520.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4ysj4JCpaRA/Wk2RkvXnhHI/AAAAAAAA-_Q/h-dvgZvad58CP_auNj89TJZyguvhpkYogCKgBGAs/s320/Attach13955_20171015_194520.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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16. Swatara Police 5k- 11/5/17, time 24:41. I was thrilled with my performance at this race. I don't typically LOVE the 5k distance, but it was totally my jam that day. Bekah and I ran 3 miles before the race and then 4 after. The race measured a little short of the 5k on my watch, and because I was basically going to PR, I kept going until my watch said 3.1 to make it at least Garmin official.<br />
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17. Harrisburg Marathon Relay- 11/12/17, time 40:15 for 4.72 miles. The Diamond Crew was at it again and signed up for the relay, in the same order as 2016 of course. I was last up and ran like the wind. I have no idea how because I had completed 20 miles on the trail two days prior, and then another 5.2 miles the day right before. I wasn't going to have time for the super long run on my schedule that weekend, so I decided to try the tired legs scenario. Judging by my mile splits, I did ok.<br />
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18. Devil Dog 100k- 12/1/17, time 17:31:31. THE GRAND FREAKING FINALE. I still can't believe that I accomplished this goal. I mean I knew my body was capable after Labor Pain, but I wasn't feeling as confident as I lined up at the start line. I am so SO grateful that I had the support from friends and family to do everything I needed to get me to the finish line.<br />
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So there you have it. 2017 races all wrapped up in a pretty little package. It's been an amazing running year. I haven't really set any major goals in stone yet for 2018, but I do know that it's going to be fantastic and full of so many miles, friends and fun that I am smiling just thinking about it. I have no doubt that 2018 in general is going to rock my world and I can't wait to see what's in store for me both in my running life and outside of it.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>What goals do you have for 2018?</i></b></span>Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02318222672284772370noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5300169640220079792.post-4010252170270205332017-12-15T06:00:00.000-05:002017-12-15T06:00:16.435-05:00Saving the Best for Last- Devil Dog 100kSince it's been almost two weeks since I ran my first 100k, I thought it might be time to try and make sense of all the thoughts in my head and write them down. At the beginning of 2018, I set a crazy goal of completing Devil Dog 100k after <a href="http://www.tinythunder-running.com/2017/01/lessons-in-crewing.html" target="_blank">pacing a good friend</a> at the 2017 event. It was pretty overwhelming and a lot SCARY to set such a goal after having only completed one 50k in 2017. I knew it was going to be a lot of work and that it would not be easy.<br />
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In the first half of the year, I focused a lot on keeping my body strong and healthy with some cross training workouts that helped tremendously. I felt so strong and capable. In September, you might remember that I completed 45 miles at the <a href="http://www.tinythunder-running.com/2017/09/12-hour-labor-pain.html" target="_blank">12 Hour Labor Pain</a> race and felt pretty incredible about that.<br />
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I faced a lot of life changes between that race and <a href="http://www.devildogultras.com/" target="_blank">Devil Dog</a> and was honestly feeling extra anxious about it in the weeks leading prior. My schedule kept me from a few longer runs so I just hoped that all my other training would make up for the missed miles. Even lining up at the start, I was questioning myself and whether I could really complete the distance. To make matters even more interesting, I was starting out in shoes that I had never worn before. Thursday before the race, I went out for a few trail miles and my legs and feet felt like trash after I was done. Logically, I decided to go buy brand new shoes before I left Friday afternoon.<br />
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Before everyone gets all bent out of shape, let me explain. They were just a different model of the <a href="https://www.altrarunning.com/women/womens-lone-peak-35" target="_blank">Altra Lone Peaks</a> I have been running in the past few years so I wasn't too worried. I have never had any major issues with their shoes straight out of the box and hoped this pair would give me the same experience. The outcome? Best. Decision. EVER. I ran 43-ish miles in those suckers and didn't regret a minute. They felt amazing!<br />
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Aren't they gorgeous?</div>
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Back to the race. My partner in crime, Bekah, and I headed down to the VA Friday afternoon. We wanted to get in town early, pick up our race packets and goodies, eat dinner and get settled into our hotel at a decent hour. The race started at 6am Saturday and our shuttle ride to the start was at 5:15 am and we knew we wanted to try to get as much rest as possible.<br />
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Dinner of champs- don't worry there was also PASTA!!</div>
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Unfortunately, Bekah wasn't able to run this year as planned, but it was so awesome to have her a few other friends there to crew and cheer me on at the allowed aid stations. If you have never been to or run an ultra, having a crew isn't always necessary but really helps your morale. They are there to help you get snacks, change your clothes (get mooned by accident), and fill up your camelbak with water. Yes, these are all things I could do myself, but when you are lots of miles in and tired as hell, it sure is great not to have to find stuff yourself.<br />
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(kinda) ready to go.</div>
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A few key facts about the set up of the race before I get to the (hopefully) good stuff. The 100k race consisted of 3 loops; the first was the longest at about 22.75 miles, and the second two were about 20 miles each. There were three main aid stations, two where crew members could hang out and wait for their runners. The first was at the start/finish area and is called Camp Remi, the second was call Camp Gunny (crew was not allowed here), and Camp Toofy. Fun fact: arriving at Camp Toofy was always bittersweet. It meant we were about 7 miles out from returning to Remi, but it was also the most challenging section. More on that later.<br />
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As I mentioned earlier, I was all kinds of anxious lining up at the start. There were so many things that could go wrong in 62.1 miles and I was just hoping none of them would. Before I knew it, the race started and we were off and running. Not far into the race, a man started talking to me. Little did I know how much of the day I would spend with him and how we would motivate each other. He introduced himself as Dave and told me he was from Wyoming but was currently stationed in Princeton, NJ with the Navy. It also turned out that he was really great friends with the race director! I know I have said this before, but these conversations are really what I love about ultra running and trail runs in general. There's nothing like meeting people from all over and getting to connect with them, even if just for 5 minutes.<br />
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(photo credit to Miriam)</div>
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Since we started in the dark, we got to see cool sights such as the long line of runners lit up with headlamps and the not so gradual lighting up of the sky at dawn. Before I knew it, we were over half way into the first and longest loop. I was happy to be at this point because it meant my body was finally "warmed up" and I felt like I could run forever.<br />
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I separated from Dave at one of the aid stations, but later rejoined him and another woman, Miriam, somewhere in the the last 6-7 miles of the first loop. Miriam was from New York and she was really the leader of our new found little crew. She kept pushing us onward no matter what and at one point, completely disappeared out of view. Dave and I laughed at the irony because we had all just been talking about changing clothes at the end of the loop and Miriam was currently dressed in all black, like a ninja. We had decided she was way more bad-ass than a ninja, but she sure vanished like one.<br />
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(another taken by Miriam, I had planned to take pics loop 2 and forgot my phone!)</div>
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At the conclusion of loop 1, we all took some time to change into slightly cooler clothes since we expected it to get into the 50's and we were already getting warm. As I ran into Camp Remi, I was surprised to see my pacer for the third loop, Jerry, already hanging out with Bekah at the aid station. Bekah helped me (not so) gracefully change my clothes and get ready to head back out to the course.<br />
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Funny enough I don't really remember much about running, but more about the people I talked to while doing so. I talked to a woman who had run multiple 100ks and this was (I think) her second 100 miler of the year. SAY WHAT?! She was amazing. I spoke with one guy around my age who actually grew up around the Harrisburg area and relocated to VA a few years ago. We didn't get too far into our conversation before he was telling me he was going to fall back and that he didn't want to hold me back. As trail luck would have it, our paces evened out to be about the same and we ended up running near each other quite a bit.<br />
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(photo cred to the awesome volunteer who took pics!)</div>
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Before I reached Camp Toofy where my crew could be, I heard a familiar voice. My buddy Rick! Of course he was entertaining and offered me a brownie and beer, I told him I would wait until I got to the aid station. By the time he made it back to the aid station, he told me he ate all the brownies. Lucky for him, I didn't get too upset because there were all kinds of goodies at the aid station (and more friends!!)<br />
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selfie cred to Bekah and Rick wins the most awkward pose award</div>
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This might win the most awkward picture of all time award though...</div>
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After this little pit stop, I knew it was just 6ish miles until I made it back to the main aid station and Jerry would finish out the last 20 miles in the dark with me. Needless to say, that 6 was more like 7 but with Dave and Miriam on my team, we made it and before dark!! Dave kept saying all day that this was his goal and we were all super pumped when we realized it was going to happen. 20 miles in the dark would be plenty for all of us!</div>
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My best cheerleader!</div>
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Time for another wardrobe change- it was getting much colder now that the sun was setting and we knew it would just get COLDER!! I also changed socks and shoes at this point because it felt like the right thing to do. I think I had some soup broth, chips and who knows what else at this point. I had been drinking <a href="https://www.tailwindnutrition.com/" target="_blank">Tailwind</a> all day, but since it was cooler I probably wasn't drinking enough to keep from needing other nutrition. Luckily, there were plenty of goodies on the course that I was set. I did also keep a honey stinger waffle and a pack of gummies with me on each loop in case I needed anything between aid stations. Turns out, this was a pretty solid plan. </div>
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The third loop was the hardest for many reasons. The biggest being that it was FREAKING DARK. Like really dark. But the MOON was amazing. I wish I would have taken a picture. It wasn't full, but it sure was big and so bright out in the middle of the woods. The last 20 miles took an eternity and Jerry, my pacer, was such a great sport. Because it was so dark, there were lots of sections I was actually afraid to run for fear of falling and getting really hurt. Jerry just kept encouraging me and telling me stories to pass the time. Looking back, I wish I had sucked it up and run more of those sections, but not use worrying about it right? It got really REALLY cold and it became apparent that I definitely could have had another layer on my arms and probably gloves would have been a great. But I didn't have either of these things so I made the best of it.</div>
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When I thought we would never get to Camp Toofy that last time, we finally made it! I am pretty sure there were some swear words said and my legs spontaneously took off as fast they could at 55-ish miles. They should make a shirt that says "I am sorry for what I said after mile 50" like those marathon shirts. Let's work on that, ok? </div>
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Needless to say, I not only made it to Camp Toofy, but I made the rest of the way back to Camp Remi with the help of some conversations along the way. Jerry and I talked to a pretty young guy running the 100 miler and at least a few others doing the same. We talked about shoes, what other races/distances we'd run, and where we were from. As simple as that sounds, it helped pass the time and got us all to the end of the loop. </div>
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Before you get to the sign seen in the picture above, you pop out of the woods into a small grassy area followed by a long gravel hill. Prior to seeing that grassy spot, I was just dragging myself along step by step. As soon as I saw that the finish was so close, I took off as fast as I could at 62+ miles. I was so happy and sad to be finished all at once. I don't think my body would have allowed any more miles that day, but it felt so amazing to have made it SO many dang miles. It was so amazing to have set a seemingly insane goal at the beginning of the year and that even after so many obstacles getting in my way, I stuck with it and achieved the hell out of it. </div>
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Refreshments and my finisher's "medal."</div>
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If you're still reading after all that, I have just one more thing to say. At the start of this race the path was rocky and filled with roots, the middle section was pretty smooth sailing with great sections of run-able trail, and the last section after Camp Toofy was filled with rocks you literally had to climb over. Early on I couldn't help but think how much life is just like that trail. Life is also made up of relatively smooth times but there are others we have to navigate more cautiously. We also have to face those bigger obstacles that are exhausting and make you question if you will ever make it back to the simple, smooth section again. In both situations, it is helpful to remember to put one foot in front of the other and just keep on pushing through. Sometimes we struggle alone and sometimes you are given the right people at the right times to keep you going. </div>
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Swag-a-licious</div>
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I guess all of that is to say...It's been one heck of a year, but with the help of my amazing friends and family, I made it to the start and finish of this race. I am so grateful for every step, every mile, every scoop of tailwind, every dill pickle, every tear, every fear, every disappointment, every little thing that got me to accomplish my goal. Thank you to everyone that helped me get here. A special big thanks to <a href="http://www.fleetfeetmechanicsburg.com/" target="_blank">Fleet Feet Mechanicsburg</a> for my training plan and keeping me on track all year!! </div>
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There are so many more things I could say that I probably missed, but I will save you the details. Will I run another 100k race? Probably. Will a run this one again? Probably! They really do a great job with aid stations, instructions and clear cut off times. As much pain as I was in at the end, about 24 hours later I was thinking "what's next?" (like a crazy person).</div>
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Until next time....</div>
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Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02318222672284772370noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5300169640220079792.post-74919300532965209812017-10-03T22:05:00.001-04:002017-10-03T22:05:11.001-04:00Country Roads and 26.2 milesI took the day off work Friday so that I could sleep in a little and take my time getting ready to head to West Virginia for the <a href="http://freedomsrun.org/Default.aspx" target="_blank">Freedom's Run</a> marathon. Something really cool happened on my way there, something that only a runner can appreciate. About 30 minutes into my drive, a car passed me on the left, honked and waved. It took me a second, but I realized that the drive did this because he, too, was runner with multiple 26.2 stickers on his bumper. A huge smile came over my face. Really awesome run nerd moment, right?<br />
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I picked up my packet Friday afternoon at Shepherd University in WV. My sister lives about 20 minutes away so I stayed at her house for the weekend. It is always fun when I can mix my race schedule with some family time as well. Friday night was pretty low key and I went to bed a little later than I should have (OOPS!!). After my parents arrived, we talked about places my family could come out to see me along the course and got a little plan in place so I knew where to expect them.<br />
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I had two options for the morning: 1. drive back to the University for the 6am shuttle to the start or 2. park at Harper's Ferry National Park (the start, about 10 minutes from my sister). The only real difference was how much extra sleep I could squeeze in! Harper's Ferry was closer and meant I could leave the house almost an hour later so that option WON by a landslide. </div>
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Not so fast. Around 5 AM, I woke up in panic after a bad dream that I actually woke up after 8:30 am and missed the start of the race. It's been a while since I have had one of these awful dreams, so you bet I got up right away when my alarm did go off about 45 minutes later.</div>
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I arrived at the starting area around 6:30 am because I wasn't sure if/when they would stop traffic from entering and did not want to miss the start. I had bundled up on sweats and stayed in my car until about 7 am because it was still only about 55 degrees. I headed to use the bathrooms which had no wait which is definitely not something I am used to. There were porta pots and some regular indoor bathrooms for use because it was a state park. Total race win in any runners book.<br />
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I'll be honest, I was a little intimidated standing at the starting area of Freedom's Run Marathon Saturday morning. It wasn't like I was worried about completing the distance; after all, I did just run 45 miles at the beginning of the month. Actually, that was kind of why I was intimidated!! I haven't done much long distance road running since June, so staring down the starting down the starting line of a road marathon made me a little antsy. This would be my third marathon and my first in almost two years. What if I get too sore? What if I am bored to death? What if...?? All what if's aside, I was pretty excited to see the scenery and figured whatever happened was going to happen regardless of the thoughts inside my head!<br />
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The beginning of this race was actually part of the <a href="http://www.tinythunder-running.com/2017/05/harpers-ferry-half-2017.html" target="_blank">Harper's Ferry half</a> too.. something I was happy to see a repeat of. In May, I missed this amazing overlook until they posted pics from the race and I was so bummed. This time around, I was determined to take a moment to soak up the scenery and I think I achieved that goal.<br />
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I could have stayed there for a while but I had a race to run!! On the way out from this area, I received my first of two compliments on my <a href="https://www.skirtsports.com/" target="_blank">Skirt Sports </a> running skirt. Someone on the other side made a comment, then an older man with a British accent nearby also chimed in. Little did I know that I would share over 10 miles with this man and learn quite a bit. He got into running as a way to turn his health around from near death to a very healthy, thriving life. He has completed many triathlons and has been doing marathons every weekend for the last month and will continue for a while longer. Why? He is training to do the marathon on every continent challenge and is using this to raise awareness for children's mental health. I told him what I did and that we were meant to run together. So impressive.</div>
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A mile or two after I started running with him, we joined up with a woman from Georgia. This was her third marathon as well and she shared stories of her previous ones which I, unfortunately, can't remember what they were. At one point, she told me that if she was talking too much, I should feel free to tell her or go on my way. I told her there was absolutely no need as she was keeping me entertained on the 10 mile stretch of the C&O Canal. This was the section I was MOST worried about being bored on, but thanks to these two running friends, the miles flew by. </div>
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I got to mile 15 where I could see my family waiting for me and got caught off guard at how steep the hill down to the aid station was! Steepness aside, it was so great to see everyone there cheering for me. I swapped out my <a href="http://simplehydration.com/" target="_blank">Simple Hydration</a> bottle for another with a different flavor of <a href="http://www.tailwindnutrition.com/" target="_blank">Tailwind</a> and hung out with everyone for a minute before I headed back to the course. </div>
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I loved this little cutie's sign it says "Jodi go Jodi go I want Jodi to win today." What a sweet kid. </div>
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Not too longer after, they surprised me by cheering again as they drove by. I would see them a few more time on the course in those last 11 miles. It brought a smile to my face every time to have a van of loud hooligans cheering for me!</div>
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No big deal. Just floating along. Just kidding. Some of those hills SUCKED. But I cannot tell a lie, the views during this whole dang race were killer. So beautiful.</div>
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Isn't this amazing?</div>
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This is the beginning of the hilly but so lovely Antietam National Park. </div>
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I need to make it a point to actually go back to Antietam to explore and read more about the people in these statues and all the plaques throughout. </div>
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I took plenty of time to take joy and happiness in all the simple, beautiful views that were all around me. There was so much to take in. (Brad, are you noticing all the clouds? Of course you are...) </div>
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Incredible. </div>
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The last few miles were long and short all at the same time. I don't know how that is even possible. the first two marathons I ran felt like death by the time I was nearing the last few miles. Not this time. </div>
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I was in a groove and took super quick walk breaks to shake out my legs and then kept going. As I neared the finish line, I knew I was going to PR.. BIG TIME. Serious emotions. The finish was on the 50 yard line of the football field at the University and as I was about half way there, I heard them announce my name. I just kept on trucking until I saw that finish line and the sweet numbers 4:25. </div>
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The kiddos had gotten hungry and my parents thought they had plenty of time to get food. Little did they know I would finish right after they got their food and sat down. I found the woman with whom I had shared most of the time after the C&O canal section. We hadn't talked much while we were running, but later agreed that we had enjoyed each others company nonetheless. I had "met" her early in the race and learned she was from Lancaster (about 45 minutes from me), so when I saw her in later parts of the race I made a point to say hello and encourage her. We walked over to the post race festivities at the <a href="http://www.bavarianinnwv.com/" target="_blank">Bavarian Inn</a> and got our free beer (of course) and soaked up the beautiful view. </div>
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Cheers to a challenging, beautiful course!! The support and aid stations were great and I don't think I could have asked for a better experience. But no one told me my hair was such a hot mess!!! At least my <a href="http://treadbands.com/" target="_blank">TreadBand</a> stayed in place and my hair never got in my face. Silver linings are everywhere if you look for them. </div>
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I am not one to brag, but I need to have a moment here. I have worked super hard the last two years- many hours of training that included speed work and long (and really long) runs. Add to that figuring out what exercises I needed so that my body wouldn't revolt and finally being able to enjoy most runs pain free. This has been one heck of a year for me as far as running goes and I'd be lying if I didn't say I was incredibly proud of myself. I PR'd by over 35 minutes. That's kind of a big deal!! I finally feel like I am in a great long distance running groove and I am enjoying every minute. The connections made over the miles are incredible and something that I think only runners can really understand. I couldn't have accomplished any of this without my training with <a href="http://fleetfeetmechanicsburg.com/" target="_blank">Fleet Feet Mechanicsburg</a> and all the amazing people I have trained with this summer/fall. It's never easy, but </div>
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guys.. it really is always worth it. If you put in the work, the results will follow. I am done being weird and mushy now. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>What running accomplishment are you most proud of? </i></b></span></div>
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Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02318222672284772370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5300169640220079792.post-68038422056433436842017-09-27T15:24:00.000-04:002017-09-27T15:24:45.130-04:0012 hour Labor PainAt the beginning of the year, I set a few really crazy goals and set out to achieve them. I don't think I ever really wrote much about any of them because, to be honest, they were SUPER scary to me. Mostly because I wasn't sure how my body would hold up knowing that during the last two fall training cycles, I ended up with KT Tape holding me together. I was scared that I would sign up for races with these amazing mileage goals and my body would refuse to participate.<br />
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I asked around and did some online "research" for quick exercises that I could do to try to prevent a repeat for the third year in a row. I wanted to make these scary goals attainable, but knew it was unrealistic to think I was going add in additional 30 minute long training sessions on top of all the running I would be doing.<br />
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Thankfully, leading up to last weekend my body felt great. It might sound a little pompous, but I felt really strong and confident. For me, this is a HUGE change from last year as I prepared for <a href="http://www.tinythunder-running.com/2016/10/blue-cruise-50k.html" target="_blank">Blues Cruise 50k</a>, I was just hoping that my body would make it through that race after fighting pain in various areas all fall. Going into Labor Pain 12 hour race kind of care free felt so strange. I even asked a few friends if it was weird that I wasn't really nervous about it. I felt like should have been freaking out knowing I was attempting to run anywhere from 13-17 miles longer than I ever had. I was assured that I had put in the work and that as long as I was confident, I could focus on and achieve the goal. That made me feel better. I am pretty sure I was more nervous about running the pesky <a href="http://www.tinythunder-running.com/2017/07/the-glorious-mile.html" target="_blank">Harrisburg Mile</a> earlier this summer. Weird runner logic.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Mf1ZXmAEC98/WcvAHD7A9PI/AAAAAAAA7qo/XKX_Oh9rbhEzc866g5zVo2WnPDdqMppMQCKgBGAs/s1600/20170903_064150.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Mf1ZXmAEC98/WcvAHD7A9PI/AAAAAAAA7qo/XKX_Oh9rbhEzc866g5zVo2WnPDdqMppMQCKgBGAs/s320/20170903_064150.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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Enough of the blah blah, just get to the point right?<br />
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So as many of you know by now, I ended up running 45 miles Labor day weekend at <a href="https://www.pretzelcitysports.com/calendar_event/labor-pain-12-hour-endurance-trail-run/" target="_blank">Labor Pain 12 hour Ultra</a>, but I wanted to take some time to recap the experience of getting there. I am not even sure I know where to start, but here goes.<br />
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I met my darling friends (Bekah and Brad) before the butt crack of dawn, and by this I mean slightly before 5am. We loaded up the car with way too many supplies.. just in case.. and we drove the hour-ish drive to Reading. We got to catch up on life a little and before we knew it we had arrived. Unfortunately, it was still raining but we had to get our "camp" set up anyway. Bekah had a pop up tent that came in handy to keep our stuff dry!<br />
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Once we were all set up, we got our race bibs and goodies and then started to get ourselves ready to run! First priority was, of course, a selfie (groupfie?)!<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C3q31zsMA7Q/WbFgH9gUESI/AAAAAAAA7Kk/Z85iN7QCyiUOgg__Fq_I6ZcWFTaa52_LgCKgBGAs/s1600/20170903_064814%25280%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C3q31zsMA7Q/WbFgH9gUESI/AAAAAAAA7Kk/Z85iN7QCyiUOgg__Fq_I6ZcWFTaa52_LgCKgBGAs/s320/20170903_064814%25280%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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We ran into another person from our group a little later and took another!<br />
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The race started with the "meeting" where the race director gave us important (or just funny) information about the course. Ron from <a href="https://www.pretzelcitysports.com/" target="_blank">Pretzel City</a> is famous for his crazy jokes and this speech was full of them. Nothing like starting out a race with a ton of laughter. The race consisted of running as many 5 mile loops as you wanted to or could in the 12 hour period.<br />
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I ran most of the first loop with Bekah and Brad close by. It was definitely humid and took a while for my body to get warmed up, but once I did it felt good to be running. Parts of the course were a bit clogged the first loop and made me wish we had started a little further up in the start line, but lesson learned for next time. The muddy sections of the course were challenging and made us a little nervous about what the course would look like in a few hours.<br />
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after 10 miles</div>
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Upon returning to the tent the first time, I refilled my water bottle and that was really about it. Bekah and I made a quick stop at the bathroom and then hit the road for loop 2. There is actually a point where you kind of cross paths with runners nearing the end of the loop and I got to see a previous professor of mine and yelled out to him as we passed. After a little while, I did end up running past Bekah and we didn't know where Brad was at that point. I think I saw Bekah before loop 3, but honestly can't even remember. I do know that I didn't see her again until she had completed her 50k and was relaxing.<br />
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I quickly realized that I was consistently passing the same woman in the first half of every loop. By the 4th loop, I finally asked her what her name was and she told me Iris which was short for something longer and beautiful that I cannot remember. She had run the Patapsco 50k earlier this year as her first and she, like myself, was hoping for anything above 40 miles that day. I was so glad I introduced myself as we became beacons for each other loop after loop.<br />
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20 miles in, no big deal</div>
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When I got returned from my 4th loop and found Rick before the finish line shoot, I was pretty excited. He had told us he would come up around lunch and pace us each for a loop. Honestly, I kind of lost track of what time it was and was surprised he was there already. Although I was only 4 loops in, it was exciting to see a familiar face waiting. Another thing I know was how bad-ass I felt every single time I came up over the rocky bank and back to the main area. EVERY TIME.<br />
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I decided now was a good time to change my socks since I was 20 miles in and they were rubbing a little much on the insides of my big toes. Fresh socks and a new coat of skin glide and I was ready to go. Rick saw another friend of his who he was going to run with and asked if I minded if he went and joined him. Of course it was no biggie, but as it turns out, his friend was almost done with his 50k and I saw Rick again as I was starting my loop.<br />
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Rick entertained me as he sang and joked while we ran and the miles flew by. Before I knew it, we were back at the tent and were able to see when Bekah and Brad had last come through. We decided early on that we would write the time we arrived at the tent so that we could easily keep track of who was where. We also tallied our loops so we wouldn't get confused. Sounds dumb, but you'd be surprised.<br />
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On to loop 6 and I was still feeling great. I rolled into the aid station at the half way point and was surprised to see Brad. Rick and I had guessed I might catch him at some point and there he was. We grabbed snacks and chit-chatted a little before I took off running. I always enjoyed the second half of the loop since I could more consistently run then that first half. I knew that once I hit the aid station, it was time to crank it up a little. Thankfully, this remained mostly true through the entire day.<br />
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Remember Iris that I mentioned earlier? Around loop 7, I hadn't caught up to her and we were almost to half-way aid station. I finally saw her and said hello. She told me she was so glad to see me. The crowd was thinning out and I was happy to see her too. To me, running trail is all about these connections made with other runners. It was so nice that among so many strangers, I had a familiar face to look forward to every loop. Loop 7 was also super special because I officially passed my 50k distance and I might have gotten a little teary eyed for a hot second. This was especially exciting when I realized how I felt so much better than when I finished that distance last October.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Lr1wFMlp6z4/Wcu6nWb6yBI/AAAAAAAA7qE/KMXqAx63arsdL45Rw9ApjoeSYd4jFSCZQCKgBGAs/s1600/20170903_172413.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Lr1wFMlp6z4/Wcu6nWb6yBI/AAAAAAAA7qE/KMXqAx63arsdL45Rw9ApjoeSYd4jFSCZQCKgBGAs/s320/20170903_172413.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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40 miles and hungry for more</div>
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When I finished loop 8, everyone was back at the tent, including 2 of the guys that were also from our area. I was tired and getting sore, but I was ready to grab one more loop. It was such a great energy pump to see my running partners in crime before I took off. I had some food, refilled my bottle for one last time (really, Rick did) and then took off walking a bit. I had definitely stiffened up in the few minutes standing there, so I had to ease back in. Once I got started, I felt so much better. The loop did not feel EASY, but also didn't feel like death as I had once anticipated. I just kept thinking "Man, those crazy ultra runners of mine were right. This is all mental. Your body really hits a certain level of sore and that's it. They didn't lie to me."<br />
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I am still amazed that I ran 45 miles and felt strong up to the end. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I could feel like that after over 11 hours on my feet. The muddy course did continue to be a challenge throughout the day, but some areas became sticky instead of slippy so that was helpful.<br />
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It was great to have a nice group of fellow crazy runners there to cheer each other on from loop to loop and celebrate each other's accomplishments.<br />
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Rock-star runners!</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YM1htptZkzE/WcvWRJDc7-I/AAAAAAAA7q4/oI38sJIHtSgZu4p3j2rPlYVQ-qUmhO0pQCKgBGAs/s1600/20170903_192529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YM1htptZkzE/WcvWRJDc7-I/AAAAAAAA7q4/oI38sJIHtSgZu4p3j2rPlYVQ-qUmhO0pQCKgBGAs/s320/20170903_192529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Rock-star pacer!</div>
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Scoreboard</div>
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Will there be a next time? Absolutely!! Will I try to get some other people to come along next year? Already on it. This was such a fun day of challenging myself and just really testing my strength and ability to run for hours on end. I felt strong for far longer than I ever thought possible and feel ready for the next scary goal before the end of the year!!</div>
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<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">What goal have you set lately that REALLY scared you??</span></b></i></div>
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<br />Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02318222672284772370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5300169640220079792.post-87031124534461350302017-09-13T15:44:00.000-04:002017-09-13T15:54:01.956-04:00Shop with Scrip A few weeks ago, if we're Facebook friends you may have watched my SUPER awkward live video. If you watched already, scroll on through. If not, feel free to do so now.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="true" allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="476" scrolling="no" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fjodi.stuber%2Fvideos%2F974275113417%2F&show_text=0&width=267" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" width="267"></iframe>
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I was talking about the super awesome <a href="https://shop.shopwithscrip.com/" target="_blank">Shop With Scrip</a> and how they are fundraising for <a href="https://www.girlsontherun.org/" target="_blank">Girls on the Run</a> and you can too!!<br />
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Through my involvement with <a href="https://www.capareagirlsontherun.org/" target="_blank">GOTR Capital Area</a> as a volunteer and <a href="https://www.capareagirlsontherun.org/SoleMates" target="_blank">Solemate</a>, I got the opportunity to share more about this great way to fund-raise. I would really love to see our local council or Solemate group be able to utilize Shop With Scrip in the future. I have volunteered at numerous local GOTR 5k races, participated on 5k planning committees, and have raised money as a Solemate for the 4th year in a row. I really appreciate everything that GOTR stands for and teaches young girls and I think we all wish there was something like GOTR when we were younger. I enjoy every event that I have participated in and will continue to sing praises for GOTR.<br />
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So what's the deal with Shop with Scrip?<br />
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The concept is simple enough:<br />
1. Sign up your organization<br />
2. Spread the word<br />
3. People buy gift cards to places they already shop<br />
4. Your organization benefits!<br />
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It really is that simple. You can visit their website to download a starter kit to review and decide if the program is something that would work for your organization. I really loved and was impressed by the amount of retailers they are linked with and, unlike some other services, they REALLY are giftcards to places I shop at all the time- Bed Bath & Beyond, Starbucks, Target, Amazon, Walmart and the list seriously goes on and on. I am pretty sure we ALL know some people (or are those people) who shop at these places very regularly. Why not support your favorite organization in the process? 2-16% of every gift care purchased goes back to the organization. It all adds up for your local church, sports team, or school!<br />
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Don't forget that you can visit their website <a href="https://www.shopwithscrip.com/" target="_blank">here</a> to find out more info and to get started fundraising for your organization. If you'd like to participate in raising funds for GOTR through Shop With Scrip, please contact me for an access code!<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Disclaimer: "This campaign is sponsored by ShopWithScrip. Through my affiliation with the Sweat Pink Ambassador community, I'm fundraising for Girls on the Run, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering young girls through running. All monies fundraised are donated to Girls On the Run at the conclusion of the campaign. Thank you for your readership and interest in forwarding Girls On the Run's mission of: inspiring girls to be joyful, healthy and confident using a fun, experience-based curriculum which creatively integrates running."</span>Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02318222672284772370noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5300169640220079792.post-24011922888422381252017-08-30T06:30:00.000-04:002017-08-30T06:30:04.179-04:00The GloRun 5k For the past few years (<a href="http://www.tinythunder-running.com/2014/06/that-time-i-ran-two-5ks-in-one-day.html" target="_blank">2014</a> and <a href="http://www.tinythunder-running.com/2016/06/3rd-annual-double-header.html" target="_blank">2016</a>, apparently skipped writing about 2015), my oldest nephew, Adam, and I have held a tradition of running a glow run. Due to other commitments, I was unable to complete the one we normally do and I was so bummed. As I mentioned the <a href="http://www.tinythunder-running.com/2017/08/crewing-at-es-100.html" target="_blank">other day</a>, I promised my nephew a glow run this summer to make up for it and set out on a search for other local races.<br />
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Sadly, there were just two options. One which we definitely could not do and one that I had a prior commitment on the same day, but that would work out. It made for quite an interesting weekend but I wouldn't trade it for the world. After crewing for part of the day, I headed out on the almost 3 hour drive to Carlisle because even though it was called <a href="http://theglorun.com/harrisburg/" target="_blank">The GloRun Harrisburg</a>, that is where it was. It worked out perfectly.<br />
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I knew exactly one other person doing this race and we met up with Rick beforehand since he was nice and got our packets for us. He also kindly warned us not to park on the actual grounds because they were charging for parking! What a bummer, considering we already paid for the race itself. We parked a few blocks away and it was no big deal. We got all of our glow accessories on and headed into the fairgrounds. </div>
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Inside the fairgrounds, they were playing fun music before the official event started. There was also a Luau costume contest, but we did not participate.. maybe next time! Adam did enjoy dancing quite a bit though and seemed to have a good time. </div>
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As if we didn't have enough GLOW, they were throwing out more glow necklaces prior to the race. Rick and I got fancy and put them on our shoes.I couldn't figure out how to get anything extra in Adam's shoes, but I think he still made out ok. </div>
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As you can see, we put all the necklaces on our heads... why not?!</div>
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There were TONS more people behind us. I was impressed with the turn out; since I wasn't able to find out much about this race I wasn't sure what to expect as far as crowd size. </div>
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Just a goofy man and his glow pop? I have no idea. </div>
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This is a pretty awful picture since it's really hard to photograph and RUN, but they had these things dressed up in little hula skirts and shell bras. Pretty funny to see as the first light up inflatables. We passed a few others, but once I saw the huge pineapples that was all I could focus on.</div>
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They were super HUGE and changed colors. Another picture taken on the run.. because Adam didn't want to stop and "waste time." HAHA. I like this kid. I told him we would come back after we got done. In years past, we have had to stop and take walk breaks because we'd start off too fast (even when I let him set a pace he was comfortable with.) This year we kept a much more even pace and Adam only needed two very short walk breaks. I was so impressed!! </div>
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This section was pretty neat too. It was full of black lights and BUBBLES!! We both might have squealed a little when we realized how many bubbles we were running through. I don't care how old you are, bubbles are sweet. You are never too old to play with bubbles, if you think you are, you're wrong! </div>
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Truth: this picture was staged for two reasons. One, it was not the actual finish line. Two, at the actual finish line Adam was a bit ahead of me because Rick was already done and may have egged him on a little. Either way, I am super proud of this kiddo for completing another 5k! </div>
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I paid the extra fee to get chip timed bibs and a finishers medal. Why? Because this kid is 10 and enjoys them. I forgot to mention that we do these races every year as part of his birthday gift, and although I don't typically care about medals for anything less than a half marathon, for him a 5k is a big deal. Worth every penny if you ask me. </div>
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As promised, we headed back to the Pineapple for pictures.. probably more for me than Adam, but no shame. </div>
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Did I mention they changed colors?!?! You can also see that Adam also got the goofball genes. </div>
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So. Much. Fun.</div>
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Bottom line is we had fun and Adam said he liked it more than the one we have done in previous years. Because we wrapped around and through the fairgrounds, he liked that it was easier to follow where you were going and said he would do it again. Plus, pineapples. Okay, maybe I said that last part. We did have fun and there are plenty of discount periods so that you never have to pay the ridiculous $70 full rate. It will be completely up to him, but looks like we will probably go back next year. </div>
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I know a lot of people make fun of novelty races like this, but it gives me chance to spend 1-1 time with Adam and he thoroughly enjoys it. Anything that gets kids involved in running is an A in my book and the fact that he participates as part of his birthday gift from us every year is even better. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>What do you think about novelty races? Love 'em or leave 'em?</i></b></span></div>
Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02318222672284772370noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5300169640220079792.post-53997646930736948052017-08-28T06:30:00.000-04:002017-08-28T21:44:10.251-04:00Crewing at ES 100I am not 100% new to crewing since I did <a href="http://www.tinythunder-running.com/2017/01/lessons-in-crewing.html" target="_blank">crew</a> a friend at Devil Dog last December, but this was a very different experience for sure. This time it was for a friend who I coincidentally reconnected with at Devil Dog after not seeing him for a good 10+ years. Funny how running connects people!<br />
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Anyway, that's not the point. this time around crewing was for the Eastern States 100-miler. ONE HUNDRED MILER. Seriously. So incredibly boss.<br />
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Brian, Bekah and I met at my house Friday afternoon and drove up to the race site about two and a half hours away. There was no cell reception- just a bunch of crazy people there to run and crew their friends in the mountains. We pulled into the start/finish area where packet pick up was being held. Brian got a cool backpack with all kinds of ES100 goodies- shirt, socks, and a hat! I didn't really get any pictures of this area because it was raining pretty hard when we got there. After Brian got his packet, we headed to find some dinner. Our options were limited, but the place we picked had good food and we were STUFFED. </div>
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I am not sure why, but I can seriously never get enough of pulled pork BBQ... who's with me?</div>
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After eating, we headed back to the camping area to set up. Unfortunately, the free camping lot was full so we had to figure out what to do! As we were trying to turn around, the rest of our crew which included Brian's brother, Eric, and their friend Haley showed up behind us. We saw that there were others camped out in the main parking lot and decided to set up there as well. We spent about an hour getting the tent up (mostly Eric and Haley.. they are pros!) and things organized in the vehicles for the next day. </div>
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Once we were satisfied, it was time to get some sleep! After all, Brian was getting up around 3:30 am and the race start was at 5am and it would be a super long day (and night and day). </div>
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The next morning came pretty quickly, but there were breakfast sandwiches and coffee so we hit the ground running. Well Brian was running.. we weren't...yet.</div>
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Blurry attempt to get a picture of Brian before the race. I did get one of him eating.. but I didn't think it would be too nice for me to post!</div>
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There they go! Brian is the orange and blue blur.</div>
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Once the runners were off, we all headed back to clean up our camp site and pack into the cars. We were off to the first crewed aid station which was around the 18 mile point for runners. </div>
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It was getting brighter and I was immediately enamored by the view of the mountains and the fog.</div>
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Just trying to be artsy. </div>
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Sun kept trying to break through.</div>
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All. the. fog. </div>
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So mystical.</div>
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Not fire, just the sun behind the fog.</div>
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I couldn't stop taking pictures. This isn't even all of them. I mean, what else was I supposed to do while I was waiting? </div>
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There was also a pretty cool observation deck that we went up on once the information building was open. Bekah and I may have also had a little fun in the building.</div>
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Owl be honest.. it was pretty neat building and we had a little fun goofing off. (I crack myself up)</div>
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We headed out to the balcony and made a friend who took our picture for us</div>
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We are so amazing we even color coordinated.</div>
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Back to the race.. why we were there after all. </div>
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The aid station had all kinds of yummy snacks and drinks for the runners. We watched all the first runners come in and once we thought Brian would be coming through, we got out an assortment of snacks and fuel that he brought. Once he arrived and we got a chance to check in, I got a plate of food for him- pickles and bacon were the first things on the plate of course!</div>
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Coming into the aid station</div>
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Chatting and filling everyone in. </div>
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Brian hung out for about 10 minutes or so to refuel and then headed off on the next leg of his adventure. It would be a while until will saw him again with a little over 20 miles until the next aid station that could have crew. </div>
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After Brian left, we once again packed back into the vehicles and headed to the next aid station where we would have lots of time to kill until we saw Brian again. Bekah and I went to talk to the people at the aid station to find out where runners would be coming in as well as a timeline of when they expected the lead runners to arrive. They told us it was probably going to be almost 2 hours for the leads, so we knew we had around 3 hours until we could expect Brian. </div>
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Bekah and I decided to run the trail not far from where we parked, but quickly ran into another woman. She said she had run down the path and there was a very large tree blocking you from going further; she was worried about trying to get around it on her own so we headed back to that area to see if we could find a way. I wish I had my phone with me to take a picture of how HUGE the tipped tree's root system was. There was no safe way around it and we headed back to the main road. </div>
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We hadn't run as far as we really wanted to, but stopped to talk to some other crew members who were running. They told us that the actual ES 100 course crossed the road about a half mile up so we went up to find it and ran that section and came out at the aid station. After we were done, we decided we were hungry and it might be time for lunch!</div>
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Bekah and I walked down to the aid station and set up our chairs so that we could watch for the runners as they came in. I think we both took mini naps and at one point decided to walk back to the car. We stopped to talk to Eric and before we knew it, it was pouring. Bekah ran back for the chairs and we camped out in the car, hoping the rain would quickly pass. It did not. </div>
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Eventually, we decided we better head back over to the aid area so we wouldn't miss Brian. </div>
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While we were waiting, we saw some interesting things. Like this fabulous shoe. The runner said that it busted shortly after the last crewed aid station nearly 20 miles ago. He kept running.. like a BOSS. I'm not even joking. </div>
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When it started to rain again, we saw this guy.</div>
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He wasn't letting the rain stop him from catching up on his reading. You can't make this stuff up.</div>
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This was taken for Brian so he could see how dedicated and amazing we were. It can also double as our resume for the next one. </div>
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Next thing we knew, Brian arrived and it was time to do our crew thing. The funniest thing I remember is probably Eric putting more oreos on Brian's plate every time he wasn't looking. That's a man dedicated to making sure his brother consumed enough calories (and gained 10 lbs) while running an ultra. If that's not love, I don't know what is.</div>
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Sadly, my recap of the event ends there. I had promised my oldest nephew a glow run 5k and the only one that worked for our summer schedules was the same night. I said my farewells to Brian and crew and headed home. I continued to stalk Brian's progress until he finished the 100 miles. I had no doubt he would do it, but it sucked not being able to be there to finish the crewing job and help my crew mates in shifts of pacing. A promise was a promise and I did what I had to do. I told Brian when he does another to totally count me in. I have said it before, but crewing someone to help them reach an amazing goal is like no other experience and is something I do enjoy doing. I don't think I would do it for just anyone, but for a good friend it's totally worth it.</div>
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So once again, huge congrats to Brian for kicking that 100-milers butt and although I couldn't stick around for the whole shin-dig, I am so glad I got to be there!! </div>
Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02318222672284772370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5300169640220079792.post-83805978122037644622017-08-24T10:47:00.001-04:002017-08-24T10:48:16.469-04:00Thinking Out Loud I missed a couple of weeks, but I am back. This random business is my life and I love it.<br />
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1. Let's talk about the weather. No I'm not 100 years old, but the humidity that has plagued my area for the last few weeks has FINALLY dropped out again and it's perfect. PERFECT. We finished our run last night and I was actually cold within a few minutes. The air has changed and it feels like fall. I am not ready for it getting dark so early, but fall is still my favorite.<br />
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(from our fall 2015 trip to DC for <a href="http://www.tinythunder-running.com/2015/11/marine-corps-marathon-recap.html" target="_blank">Marine Corps Marathon</a>) </div>
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2. And it only partially has to do with PUMPKIN EVERYTHING.<br />
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3. I am starting to be super excitedly nervous about my 12 hour race coming up Labor day weekend. I have a pretty big goal, but I think I am prepared after my <a href="http://www.tinythunder-running.com/2017/08/sometimes-its-good-to-suffer.html" target="_blank">super duper solo trail marathon</a> last weekend.<br />
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4. Speaking of.. I can't seem to eat enough. I mean I am constantly eating anyway, but this is way worse. I wish I could say I was eating only good stuff.. but I have been wanting chips and cookies. Maybe my body is getting ready for what I will eat at my fall ultras? Outside of that, really trying to eat generally healthy.<br />
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There's probably a million more random thoughts in my head, but I will leave you with these. And that's it for another Thinking out Loud Thursday post, linked up at <a href="http://www.runningwithspoons.com/" target="_blank">Running with Spoons</a></div>
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<br />Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02318222672284772370noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5300169640220079792.post-22923751875578627412017-08-22T06:30:00.000-04:002017-08-22T06:30:04.946-04:00Sometimes it's Good to SufferI don't usually write about training runs, but I couldn't pass this one up.<br />
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Early last week, I reached out to my friend <a href="http://www.aroadrunnerstrail.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Jeremy</a> to ask for suggestions on a different trail route to switch it up a little. I knew I had a 26 mile training run to do and thought it might be fun to branch out. Jeremy is a local badass ultra-runner so I knew he would have some great ideas. He didn't disappoint.<br />
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I will admit, I was a little worried about going it alone. All my usual partners in crime were on different training plans this week or out of town, but I planned on going and doing what I could. I am not sure why, but I was totally unsure of myself- even upon arriving to the starting point of my run. I was worried about whether there would be creepers on the trail waiting for me at 7 am. I was worried that I would fall and get hurt. What if I ran out of water or got lost? Twenty-six miles was not a new distance for me, but definitely daunting to complete alone and on a new trail.<br />
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I don't know that going on a solo 26 miler was brave, but it sure was lot of things. It was an adventure. It was beautiful. It was hard. It was exhausting. It was exhilarating.<br />
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So where did Jeremy send me? He sent me directions to the Peter's Moutain trail head of the Appalachian Trail. As I pulled into the parking lot, I noticed there was just one another car parked there. After I parked my car, I walked over to the signs and maps to see where I was headed. Once I saw the sign pointing North on the AT, I headed back to the car to get my gear and began my run.<br />
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Within the first two miles, I enjoyed two very gorgeous views.<br />
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I could hear the power lines crackling as I approached and imagine my surprise when I saw the sweet view as I looked out. This picture does 0% justice at how beautiful it is up there. </div>
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Then there's this. Table rock. I am pretty sure I gasped at the beauty. Jeremy didn't tell me about any of this in his trail instructions and I am so glad. It was such a wonderful surprise. I hung out for a few minutes then knew I better get going.. 24 miles to go. </div>
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I started down the trial and realized quickly that the majority of it was rockier than pretty much anything I have ever run on. I did ask for something a little more technical. Check!! It also became apparent that there were going to be periods of HIKING. During the next 4 miles I saw two groups of people camped out along the trail, both of which I said good morning to and they returned the favor. I was already feeling more at ease.</div>
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This section left my feet soaked with all the dew on the grass and weeds. I also had to be careful not to fall since there were rocks underneath.. of course.</div>
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I kept trucking along, anxious to get to the road crossing around mile 10. Before I got to that point, I did run into the first hikers I had seen yet. A group of teenagers hiking together and an older woman. I quickly thought how amazing she was out there by herself, looking like she had maybe spent the night somewhere on the trail as she had a pretty big pack. </div>
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Another surprise along the way was this really beautiful area I found around mile 10. It was so peaceful and cool so I soaked it all up for a few minutes and kept on towards the half way point!</div>
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More climb. More rocks. More challenges. <i>Sometimes it's good to suffer. </i></div>
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On the way to my turn around point I ran into two more hikers that I knew had to be through hikers; meaning that they were hiking the whole AT from Maine to Georgia. How could I tell? Their smell. I know I didn't smell too fresh at this point, but I sure smelled better than them!</div>
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This little plaque was at my turn around point which was, you guessed it, the end of the Horse Shoe trail portion of the AT. Another day it would be fun to start at this section and continue past to see what the next section holds. </div>
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Now that I was half way done, it was time to turn around and make my way back which I knew was going to be just as much as a challenge as it was to get here. Even though I knew it would be tough, I knew I could do it. </div>
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I took a few more photo opp stops on the way back. I just couldn't help myself.</div>
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Back at the same watering hole, this time at 16 miles. </div>
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I thought it was interesting how ORANGE the rocks under this little water stream was. Iron?</div>
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It's not super easy to tell, but that path is a pretty steep rock "staircase" which I got to run down on the way back. Much better than climbing it, but don't worry I still plenty of climbing the second half of this run. <i>Sometimes it's good to suffer.</i></div>
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Right after I came through this section, I caught up to the through hikers from before. The funniest part was smelling them before I rounded the next corner in the trail and actually saw the one. I actually walked with one of the guys and talked to him for a few minutes. He and his buddy were fresh out of college and had started in Maine on June 7th. They just hit the 1,000 mile mark which he said was half way mileage-wise, but over that time-wise. They are hoping to finish by October 31st. What a way to kick off the post-college life. I thanked him for the chat and wished him luck on the rest of their hike! </div>
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Around mile 20, I knew I was getting really close to emptying my water pack... and then I took my last sip. I really hoped that I could manage the entire 6 miles without water. I sure wouldn't be eating anything else either because I now I had nothing to wash it down. </div>
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Thankfully, most of this route was shaded and relatively cool. The breezes were so refreshing and felt wonderful. I kept thinking to myself how much better this was than 26 miles would have been on the road today.</div>
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I trudged on, mile by mile. Climb by climb. Hiker by hiker. By this time, there were quite few groups of hikers pulled along the side of the trail eating lunch and enjoying a break. Not me. I said hello and kept on moving! It would have been nice to sit, but it was much better not to. </div>
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When I got back to this sign, I knew I wasn't too far away (about 3 miles) from being done but I was still thirsty. I decided to detour to the shelter and see if there was a water pump or anything. There was a pretty decent crew hanging out there who told me there was a spring, but that the path down was pretty steep. I quickly knew that was not happening and that I would rather wait until I got back to my car. What was another 3 miles? <i>Sometimes it's good to suffer.</i></div>
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I took one last peek at the Table Rock. How could I not? </div>
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With about 1.5 miles left, I approached an older man who was out for his Sunday hike. He scooted to the side and said I was welcome to pass. Instead, I slowed to chat with him a little. He told me he often comes to this area to hike and how much he absolutely loves it here. I told him I was going to take off because I was thirsty and was ready to get back to my car, but that it was nice to chat with him. He told me that he usually carries water bottle with him. I explained I had water, but ran out. His response? <i>Sometimes it's good to suffer</i>. He was 100% right. Or maybe I was just tired.... but it really resonated with me. Isn't that why we push ourselves to our limits? We like to suffer.. just a little bit. Maybe suffering while trying new and challenging things is a reminder not to take ourselves to seriously, but also to remember how great it feels to suffer a little? Being thirsty wasn't my idea of a good time, but the challenge of this whole day was the perfect reminder of how great it could felt to step out of my comfort zone.</div>
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Once I arrived back to the parking area, I was at 26.04 miles and I decided to run down and back up the entry way but still came up a tad short of the 26.2 miles (marathon distance) I wanted. There was a little walking bridge to travel south on the trail so I decided to check that out. Much to my surprise, another fantastic view was waiting for me. </div>
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Just wow. Although I was so tired and glad I was done, I would not trade this experience for the world. I learned I can do hard things, including climb almost 3675 feet of elevation!! I can even do it alone. I would have preferred company, but this reminded me that I am 100% capable of going it alone. Sometimes I get so used to having friends to run with that it is easy to forget what I can do on my own. The solitude of a trail 26.2 miler was definitely like nothing else. But hey, sometimes it's good to suffer!!! And even though they tell you never to talk to strangers, it's okay on the trail... just sayin'.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>What have you done that pushed you out of your comfort zone and scared you a little? Or a lot?</i></b></span></div>
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<br />Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02318222672284772370noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5300169640220079792.post-14453519789173036122017-08-03T06:30:00.000-04:002017-08-03T06:30:19.637-04:00Thinking Out Loud Oh a random Thursday post!!<br />
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In an effort to post more regularly but still be somewhat meaningful, I thought I'd try playing along again with this fun link up.<br />
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<a href="http://www.runningwithspoons.com/thinking-out-loud/" target="_blank">read more here</a></div>
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You ready for the random?</div>
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1. Today is my make up hill workout. Last night I did a cross training workout and I am pretty nervous that those hills are going to add insult to injury. Not actual injury, but I sure am sore!!</div>
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2. Today I also am headed to my work office for the first time in a few months which means getting up extra early, hauling all my crap there, and a whole pile of stuff I don't have to worry about at home.. I often take working from home for granted.. but on these days I am reminded to appreciate every second.</div>
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3. FREAKING OUT A LITTLE. Training for this 100k is getting really real. LIKE REALLY REAL, guys. Like I have 23 mile training run this weekend. WHO DOES THAT? I had a conversation with a friend yesterday where we were making fun of each other. She is training for a marathon and running "just 12 miles" and feeling weird about it. She mentioned how she forgot how "weird we get" when training for more than a half marathon. If by weird you mean running all the miles, eating all the food and wanting to sleep all the time like an infant.. then YES.. LET'S GET WEIRD.<br />
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That's about all the random I have time for at the moment.. BUT there's always more where that came from. If you know me in real life, you know I am FULL of random. Stay tuned!!<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">What's going on that's random and weird for you?</span></b><br />
<br />Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02318222672284772370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5300169640220079792.post-34915747361594344282017-07-28T06:30:00.000-04:002017-07-28T06:30:39.855-04:00Double the Trouble <a href="http://www.tinythunder-running.com/2016/07/a-10k-and-15k-crossed-road.html" target="_blank">Last year</a>, my lovely friend Katie asked if I was interested in doing this race called <a href="https://www.pretzelcitysports.com/calendar_event/double-trouble-15k-30k-trail-runs/" target="_blank">Double Trouble</a>. It is a trail race that offers a 15k loop and you can run it once or twice. You don't even have to decide which one you are doing until after you finish the first 15k loop. The only caveat is that you MUST finish your first loop in a very strict 2 hour time limit. If you don't make the cut-off, tough luck. The race takes place at <a href="http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/stateparks/findapark/FrenchCreek/index.htm" target="_blank">French Creek State Park</a> which is beautiful and you should visit if you have the chance!<br />
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Between being newbies to the race and not being trained for 30k, last year we ran the 15k. For anyone not familiar, 15k is about 9.3 miles. We have a local lake which we use for training which is a similar distance, so we felt that a 15k should be more than do-able.<br />
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This year we strapped on our big girl panties and decided to go for the 30k. Two weeks prior, we did a 15 mile training run to remind ourselves that we were capable of running this distance even though we hadn't in a long time. We all felt pretty fabulous afterwards and got excited for the race!<br />
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I carpooled with a friend from our running group and upon arriving, we quickly found our fellow runners from home. It is always nice to see friendly faces at a race and having time to chat before the start helps ease any nervous feelings.. kind of.<br />
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While we were waiting for the race to start, we grabbed a quick group selfie. The tall guy in the back is part of our group even though he makes us all look like we are standing in a hole! We all set out with the intentions of doing the 30k if we felt good and made it back in time. </div>
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Going into the race I was a little worried about whether I would complete the first loop in under 2 hours. Last year I wasn't thinking and donated blood two days prior and felt awful the entire race. I hadn't thought about it, but this was an extremely bad idea. It took me 2 hours and 7 minutes last year and felt so hard. Knowing I can do our loop at home in under two hours (even on a bad day) led me to believe 2017 should be much better.</div>
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The race director, Ron of Pretzel City Sports, starts the race by lining up the 15k and 30k racers on opposing sides of the start line. He then has the 15k side shout funny insults to the 30k side and vise versa. After all this is done, both sides merge to one as they start the race</div>
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I tried to be very mindful of my pace from mile to mile to remain on track for the 2 hour cut off. I usually run trail races in a relaxed manner and don't worry too much about my paces so this was a little different for me. I was afraid it would ruin some of the fun, but it was actually a really great way to push myself and see what I was capable of. It was still really warm and humid so I wasn't sure what that would mean, but I was on a mission. </div>
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The first loop was pretty uneventful other than the last mile or so. There was a section where there were a few steps that were really wide which were really awkward for me and my short legs to run down. I made a comment to someone near by and here's the response I got: "That's what you get." I laughed and said "yea, darn genetics." We talked for a few minutes about our past experiences at the race until he decided to speed off and see what he could push for the last leg of his 15k. The last mile of the loop is pretty great because it is mostly downhill and easy to navigate. I was so excited to come in at 1:55 and immediately felt a rush of relief and pride that I would be able to make a second trip around the course. </div>
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Once I had the first loop under my belt, I took some time to walk and let my body cool off a bit. I soon ran into another man from our area and we chatted for a little about our decision to run the 30k and discussed our experiences during the first loop. After a while, I decided to run on my own and took off running. It was kind of liberating to be alone. Sometimes it is fun to pretend it's just you out there, enjoying a run in the woods. </div>
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I also decided that I would take some time to enjoy the scenery and take some pictures the second time around. </div>
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The first thing that caught my eye was this little waterfall. I love a race with some good scenery. After all, that's what the trails are all about. </div>
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Last year this area was drained and all but empty for some repair project. It was so beautiful to see it full of water, allowing people to fish along the sides of the lake.</div>
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This picture got a little washed out, but this was on the other side of the bridge where I was standing in the last picture. </div>
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This little path wrapped around a short section of the trail. These types of "boardwalks" sometimes freak me out when the board is bowed and you feel like you are going to fall... all 3 inches to the ground. But still. </div>
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This is one of the longest climbs of the race. It is steep-ish and you start to feel like you will NEVER make it to the top. When you do, there's an aid station.. woohoo! The first loop I only relied on my camelbak filled with Tailwind, but the second loop I took the aid stations as time to get a little cold water and take a quick breather. At the last aid station, I got to talk to a man who was from Puerto Rico and had flown in the run the race in honor of a friend. He was here to visit for a few days before traveling to Virginia to see some other friends and family. </div>
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Once I was nearing the last mile this time, I got this second wind of energy that I rode in to the finish line. I passed 3 or 4 people in that time and it felt great. I thought for sure I would be one of the last 30k finishers. Once I came off the trail and into the parking lot towards the finish line, I heard cheers from my friends that had already finished. Katie captured this amazing picture of me </div>
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It is a little hard to see, but I am grinning from ear to ear. Although this 30k was not my longest distance run on trail, it was one of the toughest races I have completed. The course was rocky, muddy, and there was a time limit to complete the first 15k. This time limit was not something I was 100% sure I could beat, but I did and was so darned proud. I was smiling inside and out when I heard my friends cheering for me at the finish because I was so happy for the 4 hours I had just spent on the trail and for the experience. </div>
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My official finishing time was 4:12:06. Could I have done more? Pushed harder? Finished a little sooner? Absolutely, but that does not negate the experiences I had or the effort I put in to finish the race.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Have you ever run a do-over race and crushed it? Do you like trail runs/races? Tell me about it in the comments! </span></div>
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<br />Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02318222672284772370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5300169640220079792.post-25061720940787408202017-07-24T06:30:00.000-04:002017-07-24T06:30:09.449-04:00The Glorious MileOn Wednesday July 19th, I was signed up for the annual <a href="http://ymcarun.com/info-mile/" target="_blank">Harrisburg Mile</a> for the second year in a row. Even after <a href="http://www.tinythunder-running.com/2016/07/that-time-i-ran-mile.html" target="_blank">last year</a> royally sucked and I thought I was going to vomit from coughing so hard when I was done, I signed up to torture myself another time.<br />
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I knew the heat was going to be an issue once again and that it would actually be a little more miserable than last year. My heat didn't start until 7:15, but I met up with friends around 5:45 pm to partake in a little adult beverage consumption prior to heading to the event.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AqBYIX36G6c/WXOZMY3WQQI/AAAAAAAA42U/Qxfc2crb75gsymdDH6bJiPljhUj_np-bgCLcBGAs/s1600/20108173_10213748694895902_5079856044010880895_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AqBYIX36G6c/WXOZMY3WQQI/AAAAAAAA42U/Qxfc2crb75gsymdDH6bJiPljhUj_np-bgCLcBGAs/s320/20108173_10213748694895902_5079856044010880895_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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(borrowed from Beer Runners facebook group!)</div>
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I shared a yummy summer shandy- some kind of pear flavor- with Bekah, then a few of us started a slow, sloppy jog up to the finish area. We saw a few friends, then headed to the midway point to drop our bags and then finally to starting area. </div>
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Team #runwild </div>
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We found some more friends and stood to wait for our heat to be called. Unfortunately, the sky was getting REALLY black and we saw some lightening in the distance along with some rolls of thunder. </div>
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Before we knew it, the wind was blowing and the rain was unleashed on us. If you faced the wrong way, it felt like you were getting pelted with small pieces of ice. It wasn't, but really felt like it was.</div>
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The wind actually knocked over the nice blue START inflatable and it took some time to make a plan to ensure everyone's safety. Even after it was blown over, it kept hopping up from the ground as if it had a mind of it's own. I had my phone on me so I took a quick video.</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YbQv2-JtG8I/WXOZcGGljTI/AAAAAAAA42Y/MiHwFr9qVDAgUZLOsGlA7BdJOn9_WdBfwCKgBGAs/s0/20170719_185204.mp4" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6445664199650938162?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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That wasn't the worst of it, but you get the point. They eventually took it all down and delayed the remaining heats for 20 minutes to see how the weather played out. We saw many groups of people decide to run anyway and took off. We asked if the timing mats were still on and whether they would pick up our times if we crossed. We were told that they would not. Disappointed, we decided to stay put and wait it out. After the initial 20 minute delay, they announced they were delaying an initial 20 minutes. This would have put our start time at almost 8pm IF they didn't delay any further. This time, everyone got smart and actually asked the timing guy if the mats were on and he laughed. He said he never turned them off and it should catch our times if we ran.</div>
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Minds made up, we decided that even in the heavy rain we would run our mile. We knew that the breeze and rain would be much easier on our bodies than the sweltering heat and humidity that earlier groups had to run in. </div>
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Bekah and I decided we would just run it out together and see what happened. We started pretty quick, but settled in to a nice pace. It's amazing how hard it is to run a mile at full force when you are so used to running for endurance. By the half way point I still felt pretty good which was a huge change from last year where I thought I was DYING. Seriously. I was.</div>
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We were getting closer to the finish and even though there was a little distance between us, I could hear Bekah getting closer and closer until she whizzed past me right before the finish. It's all good because I beat last year's time by a few seconds and felt so much better at the finish. (Read: I didn't want to die nor did I feel like my lungs were revolting against me.) Having not done a ton of speed specific drills and still coming out with a PR, I will call this a major case of WINNING.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iOxydBPybNQ/WXOdXWuRS-I/AAAAAAAA42k/55gAb_lpC0YyaiUgau1DAjbJLZXo51nRwCKgBGAs/s1600/20170719_192552.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iOxydBPybNQ/WXOdXWuRS-I/AAAAAAAA42k/55gAb_lpC0YyaiUgau1DAjbJLZXo51nRwCKgBGAs/s320/20170719_192552.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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We made our way to the very thin crowd at the beer tent to get our free beer. Nope, it's not great but it was part of the race and a fun time to celebrate and visit with our runner friends after hauling butt for the mile. In the process of deciding to head back to grab our bags, we got distracted by these beautiful chips that were being handed out by one of the vendors. We asked someone where they got theirs and we took off. Bekah actually scored a half a box which she proudly carried around and shared (for a while).</div>
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Once she decided she had made enough friends, she decided she wasn't sharing any more. I don't blame her!! They are the delicious <a href="http://www.getutz.com/get-snacks/potato-chips/natural-kettle.html" target="_blank">UTZ naturals</a> and I could have eaten them all night. I limited myself to 2 bags though, don't worry. </div>
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We eventually decided to make our way back to our stuff and say hello to our friends back at the midway point.</div>
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The skies had cleared and the sun was setting!!</div>
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Not sure why we were laughing so hard, but nonetheless a goofy river selfie on the way back.</div>
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Despite the crazy weather and delays, we had a blast. We got separated from a lot our friends because of the weather and then running our own "heat," but I think it was quite an adventure for everyone. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Does your town have a mile race? Do you like to go ALL OUT or run it for fun with friends and family?</span></div>
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Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02318222672284772370noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5300169640220079792.post-54341788511804070942017-07-21T11:23:00.000-04:002017-07-21T11:23:35.725-04:00Finding Adventure<div style="text-align: justify;">
Last weekend I was running trail with my friend <a href="http://workrunhikerepeat.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Ana</a> Saturday morning and she tells me they are going on a hike that afternoon. I love following her awesome hiking/exploring adventures and often find myself oo-ing and ah-ing looking at her pictures. When our run was over and I checked my phone, my afternoon plans had cancelled and I found myself wondering what I could do to still enjoy the beautiful weather we were having (finally!).</div>
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Ana and I enjoyed some coffee at a nearby coffee shop and before we left, she invited me to join her and her boyfriend on their afternoon adventure. I didn't want to feel like I was imposing on their time together and she assured me it was totally ok. We both planned to head home, clean up a little and they would pick me up. I had no idea what the rest of the day would hold for me. We would head to Glen Onoko Falls in Jim Thorpe, PA. I have been to Jim Thorpe before, but never knew where the trails were.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kfZZlsoQ78Q/WXISYnzY_SI/AAAAAAAA40I/mgMV3mEQlJ09U9yvHKwvAGIs4UcJXaJdgCKgBGAs/s1600/20170715_142430.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kfZZlsoQ78Q/WXISYnzY_SI/AAAAAAAA40I/mgMV3mEQlJ09U9yvHKwvAGIs4UcJXaJdgCKgBGAs/s640/20170715_142430.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This was the first amazing view we got to soak in. There is just something about the water that is calming, refreshing and relaxing. </div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4pR1brHi6-s/WXITlw9rsvI/AAAAAAAA40U/qlkyVoOBFA0ATcaRxWI9xQ6h9tzmj6s3QCKgBGAs/s1600/20170715_142546.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4pR1brHi6-s/WXITlw9rsvI/AAAAAAAA40U/qlkyVoOBFA0ATcaRxWI9xQ6h9tzmj6s3QCKgBGAs/s640/20170715_142546.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The hole in the mountain!! We were immediately excited to find out how to get to this spot and see the views from that side of the river. </div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ew9Ex4zzv5c/WXITlx7_eMI/AAAAAAAA40U/ul90QW_I0woeWNiLevUFbMYQRcD-wnkUQCKgBGAs/s1600/20170715_144351.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ew9Ex4zzv5c/WXITlx7_eMI/AAAAAAAA40U/ul90QW_I0woeWNiLevUFbMYQRcD-wnkUQCKgBGAs/s640/20170715_144351.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
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We ventured off to find the trail and were soon greeted by this warning sign. We laughed and also might have been a little nervous. </div>
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My lovely co-adventurers. Each year they make a goal of how many new state parks they want to visit. Now that's my idea of how to spend a great summer!! </div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JUv6ugChtoM/WXITlyrVZ6I/AAAAAAAA40U/0kpfPNXf2PYn4-AFdUvHUYWRZSYnP0FjgCKgBGAs/s1600/20170715_151233.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JUv6ugChtoM/WXITlyrVZ6I/AAAAAAAA40U/0kpfPNXf2PYn4-AFdUvHUYWRZSYnP0FjgCKgBGAs/s640/20170715_151233.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
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We started our climb and were immediately in absolute AWE of the gorgeous falls. </div>
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How could you not be? With each new section we would climb (up, up, up!) another section of the falls was revealed to us.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KqxzdF-T93E/WXITl7cJXRI/AAAAAAAA40U/6tTr0kZfh7E3lgVGXdlr1LVsgXskAvR-wCKgBGAs/s1600/20170715_153748.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="932" data-original-width="1600" height="371" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KqxzdF-T93E/WXITl7cJXRI/AAAAAAAA40U/6tTr0kZfh7E3lgVGXdlr1LVsgXskAvR-wCKgBGAs/s640/20170715_153748.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Just when we thought we were nearing the TOP, another waterfall would appear and take our breath away. </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zJRtYguZiiE/WXITl5D3YLI/AAAAAAAA40U/ld9coZDZa0I7Tar1BuniZ7tn-k5mubRoACKgBGAs/s1600/20170715_154348.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zJRtYguZiiE/WXITl5D3YLI/AAAAAAAA40U/ld9coZDZa0I7Tar1BuniZ7tn-k5mubRoACKgBGAs/s640/20170715_154348.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The waterfalls weren't the only thing that amazed us either. There was this whole area. Yet another picture that does very little to capture how beautiful it really was. </div>
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So much beauty. </div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">Obligatory awkward group selfie! I was really trying not to drop my phone in the water. </span></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">The hike up to the top soon came to an end and we learned that if we followed the blue trail, it would take us on a MUCH easier journey back down. We were so glad we didn't have to go down the path we just came up. It was quite a challenge!!</span></div>
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We finished the main trail and found our way back to that cool hole we saw in the mountain when we first arrived. It was amazing and weird all at the same time. </div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8ajN3GQB1QY/WXIaGraJDLI/AAAAAAAA40s/LCwDDGsgO8wh6aLupC_vU0XBrc5GYDHvwCKgBGAs/s1600/20170715_165312.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8ajN3GQB1QY/WXIaGraJDLI/AAAAAAAA40s/LCwDDGsgO8wh6aLupC_vU0XBrc5GYDHvwCKgBGAs/s640/20170715_165312.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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To get to the overlook area, you had to walk through this pretty darn tunnel. After a moment, your eyes adjust, but until that happens we found ourselves walking very cautiously. </div>
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Here you see all the way through to the other side from the overlook. Ana thought it would be fun to strike a yoga pose, so I did!</div>
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So did she. </div>
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And then there was this. What goofballs!</div>
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We enjoyed another beautiful view from the actual overlook point. People were still down there swimming and enjoying the amazing weather. After we were done soaking up every last bit of beauty we could, we figured we should head out and find something to eat before we headed home. </div>
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My phone was all but dead so I figured I would snap one last shot in this beautiful park before it totally shut off on me. I know that our PA mountains are nothing in comparison to some of the others around the country, but they are our mountains and are still so full of beauty and adventure. </div>
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When they dropped me off last Saturday night, I was exhausted in the absolute best way possible. I had gotten to spend most of the day outside and enjoyed every last moment. You can't help but feel a certain kind of satisfaction after visiting a place like this. Dirt, grit, sweat and a lot of laughs are always good for the soul. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Does your state have lots of parks like PA? Have you taken the time to explore? What was your favorite? </span></div>
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Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02318222672284772370noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5300169640220079792.post-61216133279782225452017-07-17T18:06:00.003-04:002017-07-17T18:15:03.991-04:00Fueling for the long runWhen I first started running long distances, I was obsessed with asking people how they fueled for long runs. In the beginning of my running journey, I didn't realize there were people that ran more than a few miles at a time, let alone 26.2 and longer. My eyes were opened to the wide world of nutrition and hydration that make these acts of madness possible.<br />
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My running experience comes full circle now that people have started to ask me the very questions I used to ask. I am here to tell you that while for some people, finding what works is a quick easy process, it can also be very difficult and frustrating at times!<br />
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Of course, me being me, I belong to camp #2. In the years since I started long distance running, I have discovered a few things that work flawlessly and way too many that just don't. I am here to share my journey to the perfect solution for me and if you dare to journey on with me, please understand that there will be TMI moments. My goal is to be honest in an effort to maybe help someone who has had similar issues. You have been warned.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZgGwRpiSP_k/WW0yi00BM4I/AAAAAAAA4pw/zZN56LkBVI0FCG7VlGRc69AQukf5jxdgACLcBGAs/s1600/tenor.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="220" data-original-width="220" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZgGwRpiSP_k/WW0yi00BM4I/AAAAAAAA4pw/zZN56LkBVI0FCG7VlGRc69AQukf5jxdgACLcBGAs/s1600/tenor.gif" /></a></div>
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The first thing I ever tried was <a href="http://www.clifbar.com/products/clif/bloks-energy-chews?gclid=Cj0KEQjwwLHLBRDEq9DQxK2I_p8BEiQA3UDVDhWIVahxEnNP279uaZF2ue0qJmHM_0YwTGTDxz3plegaArRq8P8HAQ&gclsrc=aw.ds" target="_blank">Clif Shot Bloks</a><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-56hcES30MhA/WW0cpFXLZTI/AAAAAAAA4o8/xclIB8TqVIcAz3YmeoZHDNtJufPc2wm_QCLcBGAs/s1600/clif.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="250" data-original-width="250" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-56hcES30MhA/WW0cpFXLZTI/AAAAAAAA4o8/xclIB8TqVIcAz3YmeoZHDNtJufPc2wm_QCLcBGAs/s200/clif.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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Pros: Easily portable, fueled pretty well, low GI issues.</div>
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Cons: Who wants to chew while they run? (hint: not me) Also, sometimes they get too hard when running the cold or too melty (very scientific) in the summer. </div>
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Next up was <a href="https://shop.guenergy.com/collections/energy/products/energy-gel?variant=18591862209" target="_blank">GU energy Gel</a> which I used a few times during half marathon training and at my very first half. </div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_dkVpIiXoNI/WW0lshU-mxI/AAAAAAAA4pI/d5CyeW8e38IIfTV54LeH7QncMMSRAjemwCLcBGAs/s1600/gu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="246" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_dkVpIiXoNI/WW0lshU-mxI/AAAAAAAA4pI/d5CyeW8e38IIfTV54LeH7QncMMSRAjemwCLcBGAs/s200/gu.jpg" width="102" /></a></div>
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Pros: Some of these taste SUPER awesome and delicious.</div>
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Cons: They all land me in the bathroom for the rest of the day. I am not kidding or exaggerating. Believe me, I wish I was. After I finished that half marathon, I couldn't stop running to the bathroom and I was NOT a fan. Not sure if it was the specific one I had, but this is not an experiment I wish to enter into. I had similar issues while training, but thought that was just from running so far. WRONG!</div>
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From there, I tried searching for a more "real food" approach which pointed me to the the next two items. First up, is Pocket Fuel which coincidentally looks like is not around anymore, but I will share it anyway. </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T-0WJRp3ga8/WW0nGL-QzcI/AAAAAAAA4pQ/KbDEphk2FKsGrKoF1xMBfDMFb9FUFHuewCLcBGAs/s1600/pocketfuel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="440" data-original-width="260" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T-0WJRp3ga8/WW0nGL-QzcI/AAAAAAAA4pQ/KbDEphk2FKsGrKoF1xMBfDMFb9FUFHuewCLcBGAs/s320/pocketfuel.jpg" width="189" /></a></div>
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Pros: HELLO, NUT BUTTER!!! </div>
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Cons: While I loved everything about these delicious treats, trying to run after I sucked one down was not on my top 10 favorite things. My mouth would be dry and sometimes I just didn't want that flavor while running. I did try quite a few of their flavors thanks to the amazing samples they sent me, but it just wasn't a long term solution for me.</div>
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Around the same time, I got the opportunity to try <a href="http://www.energybits.com/" target="_blank">ENERGYbits</a>. </div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xHCFKFWkkJk/WW0oHhJceBI/AAAAAAAA4pY/Wh_Un8EKpEM9gvE_v86Ib_xpqbS9gPVVQCLcBGAs/s1600/energybits_bag_v2_500_1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xHCFKFWkkJk/WW0oHhJceBI/AAAAAAAA4pY/Wh_Un8EKpEM9gvE_v86Ib_xpqbS9gPVVQCLcBGAs/s1600/energybits_bag_v2_500_1.png" /></a></div>
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Pros: All natural, algae-based supplement that can be used before and during runs to boost energy.</div>
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Cons: I kept playing with when I took them prior to a workout, but often ended up feeling like I needed to run to the bathroom as soon as I got done running or even worse, during a run. It was also a little weird to take the recommended amount which was 30 little green tabs. Taking these in the middle of a long run was not working for me after a while. Also, they were a little too pricey for my life. I became an ambassador with them and got a slight discount, but it wasn't really enough for me. </div>
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Fear not!! I found another pretty sweet more natural option through a friend's recommendation called <a href="https://humagel.com/" target="_blank">Huma Gel</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PTmlCkbHzQM/WW0qCBYndlI/AAAAAAAA4pc/Ro1YTkPT1oww3a-0o1yWSkatcSsur9NuwCLcBGAs/s1600/Lemonade_Front_1024px_1024x1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PTmlCkbHzQM/WW0qCBYndlI/AAAAAAAA4pc/Ro1YTkPT1oww3a-0o1yWSkatcSsur9NuwCLcBGAs/s320/Lemonade_Front_1024px_1024x1024.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Pros: These are EVERYTHING. I chose the picture of the lemonade because it is probably my favorite. They also came out with a + version that added electrolytes and I love the strawberry lemonade. They are so refreshing during hot runs and I didn't really ever have an issues with them. </div>
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Cons: I can't really remember any. </div>
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So these were the perfect end to the fueling love story, right? Kind of. </div>
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My favorite hydration product, <a href="https://nuunlife.com/" target="_blank">Nuun</a>, changed it's formula sometime last year to use Stevia instead of straight up sugar. I panicked!! Stevia and my body do not get along AT ALL guys. If you have ever run with me, I am sure I have told you the awful stories. It is SO bad that after just a sip or two, my stomach starts to FLIP. </div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h5w7yxuWlZE/WW0sWFnyztI/AAAAAAAA4pg/mB2GHcNqqTgg20NN6sVBPV_qAHNONwmUgCLcBGAs/s1600/giphy-downsized.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="233" data-original-width="400" height="185" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h5w7yxuWlZE/WW0sWFnyztI/AAAAAAAA4pg/mB2GHcNqqTgg20NN6sVBPV_qAHNONwmUgCLcBGAs/s320/giphy-downsized.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
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I even contacted the company and was so bummed when they told me they didn't plan on keeping any of the regular sugar options. I knew I needed to find an option to keep hydrated during my runs and I got a similar recommendation from many respectable sources.</div>
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<a href="http://www.tailwindnutrition.com/" target="_blank">Tailwind</a> was recommended to me over and over again. There were some other options out there, but they all had Stevia. No thanks. </div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JZSJPXhZOOs/WW0teFtZboI/AAAAAAAA4po/ZWddW7TuGFcmj59C9oZt2kvQsvxsoyvEgCLcBGAs/s1600/tailwind.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1280" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JZSJPXhZOOs/WW0teFtZboI/AAAAAAAA4po/ZWddW7TuGFcmj59C9oZt2kvQsvxsoyvEgCLcBGAs/s320/tailwind.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I have been using this since January some time and never looked back. It is a white powder that you mix with water and let it work it's magic. I am still playing a little with the strength for my needs, but I have used it for runs up to 15 miles and it has been great. No stomach issues and it literally has everything you need in it. When I use Tailwind, I really don't need anything else. I know that as I up my mileage for this training cycle, I will add other food options in there. When you get into the ultra distances, your body needs all different kinds of things that you wouldn't think to eat while running a road marathon but that's a whole different discussion. </div>
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Take aways:</div>
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1. Fueling is personal </div>
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2. Don't give up if one product doesn't work for you. Do a little research and find something else that might work better. </div>
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3. Ask your friends or others who are "seasoned" runners for suggestions if you don't know where to start.</div>
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4. Real food works for some people (dried fruit, pretzels, Swedish fish, etc) but was never something I personally tried. I did enjoy some AWESOME things when I ran <a href="http://www.tinythunder-running.com/2016/10/blue-cruise-50k.html" target="_blank">Blues Cruise 50k</a> last fall. Did someone say potatoes?!?! </div>
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5. Trust yourself and treat your body with love. If something doesn't work, don't beat yourself up. this goes for regular life eating too. If you fuel with crap that doesn't work for your body and you find yourself getting frustrated or hitting the wall.. examine what you're doing and make a plan to do something different and better the next time. </div>
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Keep in mind that I am not a professional and that this is obviously not an exhaustive list of the never-ending fueling options that are out there. This is just my little road map to fueling and GI happiness and I hope it helps someone!</div>
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Feel free to comment with additional questions or if you have any other awesome suggestions!</div>
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Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02318222672284772370noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5300169640220079792.post-77846772636999652232017-07-14T18:23:00.000-04:002017-07-14T18:23:23.017-04:00JAM-PACKED JuneThere's no denying that it's been way too long since I sat down to write. So many times I wanted to but was so wiped out from doing all the living life stuff and just couldn't. I stare at a computer for work 8 hours a day and sometimes I just can't stand the thought of sitting down for more than that no matter how much my brain is spinning with stuff to write about.<br />
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So here I am with a little mini catch up on where the month of June took me. I went to two weddings, celebrated my youngest nephew's 2nd birthday, celebrated Father's day, worked my part time gig on two weekends, ran in a trail race, participated in a rockin' global running day, and co-planned a run for global sports bra squad day. Whew. That made me tired just thinking about it all again.<br />
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Let's start with the first wedding. Enjoy a few little snippets of the evening. They got super lucky with the fantastic weather and lots of fun guests.<br />
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Next up was Global running day which was a blast!! I actually ended up running twice that day- once at lunch and then another time later in the evening with the running store in my hometown. <a href="https://apprunco.com/" target="_blank">Appalachian Running Company</a> opened up the same year I moved from Carlisle, but is such a great community resource and they have the friendliest staff. They hosted a small yet big celebration where we ran from the store anywhere up to 5 miles then came back and ate all the good food we brought! ARC supplied pizza and some beverages and everyone had a great time. They did an awesome giveaway for us and while I didn't win anything, this was incredibly generous considering this was a free event.</div>
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Then there was my trail race. It was.. well.. not my best, but still had lots of fun. I will be doing an official race recap later, so stay tuned. It was the 3rd year I have run it and I will continue to. The course is well marked and it is well organized. </div>
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Next up was the belated celebration of my youngest nephew's 2nd birthday along with Father's day! I can't believe this little guy is 2 already and it's been so fun watching his little spunky personality develop. He definitely is a funny little guy.</div>
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OMG this face. </div>
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I didn't really catch any pictures of my dad, but we made sure to know he was extra loved and appreciated. He is so hard to shop for because he works hard and buys what he needs, along with the occasional FUN toy (ahem, 4 wheelers).</div>
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Last and most definitely not the least, I rounded out the month with an absolutely fantastic celebration of <a href="http://www.runselfierepeat.com/blog/global-sportsbrasquad-day" target="_blank">Global Sports Bra Squad day</a>. This really deserves its own post as well, but I will start here. The amazing Kelly Roberts (add link) started this whole movement about throwing away your insecurities about what you think you should be or look like to run in a sports bra and be comfortable. Essentially saying SCREW YOU to all of it. </div>
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I was not new to running in a sports bra. One scroll through my <a href="http://instagram.com/tinythunderr" target="_blank">instagram</a> and you will see lots of pictures sans shirt in the summer. Am I 100% confident? HECK NO. Do I care? Not really. When it is hot and any extra clothing really seems like torture, I choose to be kind to myself and not care what others might think about my very white bellied self running down the street. Sorry, not sorry. </div>
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What it boils down to is this. Women and girls are told from early on to be this and do that. We get complexes, many develop eating disorders and so many suffer from self-esteem and anxiety issues. This special day urged us all to throw caution to the wind and show the world what strength looks like. We come in all shapes and sizes and SO does strength. Like I said, I could literally write a post JUST about this. (and maybe I will.) </div>
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The same afternoon I went to wedding #2 of the month which was HOT and sunny. </div>
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The next morning, I started the next round of training with <a href="http://www.fleetfeetmechanicsburg.com/" target="_blank">Fleet Feet Mechanicsburg</a>. </div>
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So that pretty much wraps up all the June happenings. There are a few other updates that happened more in the beginning of July and I will write about those REALLY soon. It's too exciting not to. Seriously.</div>
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Now that you have heard about my JAM-PACKED June, what have you been up to? Did you do something SUPER awesome or special in June? Please share in the comments!!</div>
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<br />Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02318222672284772370noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5300169640220079792.post-79886898947318511332017-05-25T07:00:00.000-04:002017-05-25T07:00:22.179-04:00Race Against Racism 5k 2017<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-align: left;">Almost a month ago (April 29th), I ran the </span><a href="http://www.ywcahbg.org/events/13th-annual-race-against-racism#.WRm4umjyvIU" style="text-align: left;">Race
Against Racism</a><span style="text-align: left;"> in Harrisburg. Every year, my employer is a sponsor and
allows so many employees to have a free entry into the race. I was bummed to
miss it last year because they changed the course so I was extra excited to
have the chance to go this year.</span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5ym_znc-AEg/WRux-e2SXcI/AAAAAAAA16w/0zzgMLtpFTUo1s177ENRcs_UmcHy7xhUgCLcB/s1600/Race%2BAgainst%2BRacism%2B2017-Race%2BAgainst%2BRacism%2B2017%2BMarti%2BAiken%2BPhotogra-0054.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5ym_znc-AEg/WRux-e2SXcI/AAAAAAAA16w/0zzgMLtpFTUo1s177ENRcs_UmcHy7xhUgCLcB/s400/Race%2BAgainst%2BRacism%2B2017-Race%2BAgainst%2BRacism%2B2017%2BMarti%2BAiken%2BPhotogra-0054.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://martiaikenphotography.pass.us/race-against-racism-2017-marti-aiken-photography-1/" target="_blank">source</a></div>
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I don’t run
a ton of 5k’s so I try to go all out and see what kind of effort I can
muster. I knew I raced the Lucky Charm HBG 10k at an 8:43 average, so I was
trying really hard to see what I could accomplish below that. I knew I was capable of 8’ish minute miles
because I had run them in training, but holding that for more than a mile was
nerve-wracking. People laugh at me when
I tell them 5ks make me nervous. They think that because I run long distances,
that 5ks are a breeze but they aren’t. When we train long distances, we don’t
run really quick paces like we often push for in those pesky 5ks. I get excited and nervous all at the same
time. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Anyway, I
met my friend Allison in the parking lot to get my race bib and walk over with
her. We chatted on the way and were both glad for the cool temps and the overcast
sky. She had not run much over the winter and hadn’t run a race since the Hero
Run 5k we did together back in November so she was also a little antsy before
the race.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I found some
other friends who told me they were shooting to stay around the same I was
hoping for and when it got closer to the start time, we headed to line up
together. We lined up at the front which made me nervous about getting run over,
but was better than having to dodge past other people. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eKM4JZxyElg/WRuyN7EFZCI/AAAAAAAA160/A9nIg2E8CRkC_KlmyQ4Zfr8y8ygL4gKhwCEw/s1600/Race%2BAgainst%2BRacism%2B2017-Race%2BAgainst%2BRacism%2B2017%2BMarti%2BAiken%2BPhotogra-0096.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eKM4JZxyElg/WRuyN7EFZCI/AAAAAAAA160/A9nIg2E8CRkC_KlmyQ4Zfr8y8ygL4gKhwCEw/s400/Race%2BAgainst%2BRacism%2B2017-Race%2BAgainst%2BRacism%2B2017%2BMarti%2BAiken%2BPhotogra-0096.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://martiaikenphotography.pass.us/race-against-racism-2017-marti-aiken-photography-1/" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">source</a></div>
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The race
started with one of the local news channel anchors announcing and sending us
off. A local photographer caught some nice shots as we all go started on our 5k
journey through the streets of Harrisburg. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mMhViBCbbts/WRuytzVnAyI/AAAAAAAA168/rg4J0Qj2sNE4c5MFQHfYq3jdDCo-xZV6wCLcB/s1600/Race%2BAgainst%2BRacism%2B2017-Race%2BAgainst%2BRacism%2B2017%2BMarti%2BAiken%2BPhotogra-0123.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mMhViBCbbts/WRuytzVnAyI/AAAAAAAA168/rg4J0Qj2sNE4c5MFQHfYq3jdDCo-xZV6wCLcB/s640/Race%2BAgainst%2BRacism%2B2017-Race%2BAgainst%2BRacism%2B2017%2BMarti%2BAiken%2BPhotogra-0123.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://martiaikenphotography.pass.us/race-against-racism-2017-marti-aiken-photography-1/" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">source</a></div>
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Those
friends I mentioned earlier?? Yea, they definitely took off below an 8 minute
mile. I realized it and just couldn’t get myself back under control. My first mile
was an 8:03 which I was really happy with, but doubted being able to keep it
up. I was able to slow my pace down, grabbed some water at the water stop and
then finish it out with an 8:40 and 8:25 minute mile. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b9XaFm4KgLk/WRuy-CJerWI/AAAAAAAA17A/PfGwTrnCdXAMTkew8aZ1w2Xy55SuwhmgACLcB/s1600/Race%2BAgainst%2BRacism%2B2017-Race%2BAgainst%2BRacism%2B2017%2BMarti%2BAiken%2BPhotogra-0189.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b9XaFm4KgLk/WRuy-CJerWI/AAAAAAAA17A/PfGwTrnCdXAMTkew8aZ1w2Xy55SuwhmgACLcB/s640/Race%2BAgainst%2BRacism%2B2017-Race%2BAgainst%2BRacism%2B2017%2BMarti%2BAiken%2BPhotogra-0189.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://martiaikenphotography.pass.us/race-against-racism-2017-marti-aiken-photography-1/" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">source</a></div>
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I was pretty
happy with my overall run knowing I had not run a 5k since November and that I
worked really hard all winter. It was disappointing that I didn’t quite hit 3.1
miles, so not sure if this was a PR or not. If it wasn’t it sure was close. The course wasn't the typical route that many 5ks run in Harrisburg so we got to see some parts of the city I don't normally run in. Probably my least favorite part was the out and back on the bridge, but thankfully it was raining and the sun wasn't blasting so that helped a TON!<o:p></o:p><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Does your city have a "typical" route they use for races? Does this make you happy or sad?</b></span></div>
Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02318222672284772370noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5300169640220079792.post-25452735755361717622017-05-23T08:00:00.000-04:002017-05-23T16:03:04.481-04:00Sharing the SPARK at GOTR<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oK8-xX5Vw30/WRu0J8kWjcI/AAAAAAAA17k/MBu7_Pt7lu8SX-5QcNjD_Q7A85e4YYQnQCLcB/s1600/gotr_ts_00378.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oK8-xX5Vw30/WRu0J8kWjcI/AAAAAAAA17k/MBu7_Pt7lu8SX-5QcNjD_Q7A85e4YYQnQCLcB/s640/gotr_ts_00378.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://tshadlephoto.smugmug.com/Events/Girls-on-the-Run-2017/n-8JXJxk" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">T Shadle Photography</span></a></div>
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In 2014, not long after I got more serious about running, I found someone in my running group who was involved in our local <a href="https://www.capareagirlsontherun.org/" target="_blank">Girls on the Run</a> chapter and I reached out. I had been watching the website and wanted to get involved, but the 5ks prior were held on weekends I was busy. Lucky for me, the 5ks weren't the only option for getting involved. I ended up signing up to be part of the 5k planning committee (to make sure I was available) and also as a Solemate (the fundraising portion of GOTR).<br />
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In the 3 years since working GOTR, I have helped plan four 5ks, been a Solemate 4 times (including this year), and have had a blast every step of the way. While I wasn't officially on the planning committee for this spring season, I did get to help out with a special group of people we like to call "Spirit Runners." The purpose of this group is to 1. wear a pink cape and be awesome, and 2. to cheer on all the girls and their running buddies. As we all know, sometimes running can get tough; we get stuck in our heads and want to throw in the towel, but there's always that something or someone that inspires us to keep going. Spirit runner's are just that.<br />
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The awesome added twist was that we paired up with <a href="https://momentumjewelry.com/" target="_blank">Momentum Jewelry</a> and their Spark Crew initiative to hand out a little extra "spark" of spirit and cheer along the way. What does that mean? They sent us some awesome <a href="https://momentumjewelry.com/collections/sparklets" target="_blank">SPARKlets</a> that read "You got this" to give out to a limited number of girls to remind them that are so strong and can push through to complete their 5k. I was so caught up in it all that I never even got to take a picture of them before we gave them all away.<br />
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We ended up with about 10 total spirit runners and 7 of us split up the SPARKlets to hand out. It was so fun to see the spark in the eyes of each girl we handed one out to. They got a special surprise and a great reminder that would last way beyond the race they were running. </div>
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<a href="https://tshadlephoto.smugmug.com/Events/Girls-on-the-Run-2017/n-8JXJxk" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">T Shadle Photography</span></a></div>
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That's the great thing about both Girls on the Run and the SPARKlets from Momentum; they both encourage girls and women to be everything they want to be even when we are scared, anxious, or facing a tough situation in life. Girls on the Run provides so many great life skills to school aged girls when they need it the most. Momentum provides awesome reminders in all shapes and sizes for all ages. They go hand in hand, a perfect match. </div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gWHw-ZWFEh4/WRu0Lts6kaI/AAAAAAAA17o/d_l_AdGsYjISauwPhmWMv6sQbFVSH7-0gCLcB/s1600/gotr_ts_00911.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gWHw-ZWFEh4/WRu0Lts6kaI/AAAAAAAA17o/d_l_AdGsYjISauwPhmWMv6sQbFVSH7-0gCLcB/s400/gotr_ts_00911.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://tshadlephoto.smugmug.com/Events/Girls-on-the-Run-2017/n-8JXJxk" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">T Shadle Photography</span></a></div>
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Don't worry, the Spirit Runner crew wasn't female only. We did have the awesome Leo (and his cowbell) but hopefully next time I can get another guy or two to help out. Leo was awesome and I saw him multiple times up on the park benches cheering his heart out. A mile or so of the race actually runs straight through <a href="http://www.hersheypark.com/" target="_blank">Hershey Park</a>, how cool is that?!</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://tshadlephoto.smugmug.com/Events/Girls-on-the-Run-2017/n-8JXJxk" target="_blank">T Shadle Photography</a></span></div>
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As Spirit Runners, we got to run in so many girls and share their joy in crossing the finish line even after those tough and not so fun parts. Watching these girls finish their race actually reminded me a lot of when I first started running and how hard a 5k felt. It is so satisfying to cross that finish line, no matter the distance. </div>
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We may have borrowed some pom-poms from the wonderful ladies that came from <a href="https://www.mythirtyone.com/shop/home?gclid=Cj0KEQjw0v_IBRCEzKHK0KiCrKMBEiQA3--1NkHsGBR8G7W4pOjQuYonCPYS02EG1lJEXJxBM13cw6QaAgu28P8HAQ" target="_blank">Thirty-One</a> to volunteer all over the place. Yep, I ran the entire thing with it and it was SO FUN!! </div>
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I think this was the entire crew before we got started. Clearly Leo was bursting at the seams with spirit! Pretty good looking crew for super early in the morning, right?</div>
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I have to share this one little story. This little girl and I shared quite a bit of time together during the 5k. Around the one mile mark, I was flagged down by a woman saying that this little lady had lost her mom. She was running ahead of her mom and completely lost sight of her at some point and was worried. The awesome part is that she was super brave and agreed to keep running and we would figure it out. While we were running, I decided she needed one of the bracelets. Here she was, planning to run the 5k and keep somewhat close to her mom and now she had no idea where she was. Once it seemed like she was comfortable, I asked her if she would be ok with me heading back through the race to see if anyone else needed some extra cheers. She said she was, so I went and did my thing. At some point, I actually ended up finding her again. She was still moving along and had a smile on her face. This time, I stuck with her to the finish line. She talked about how she was excited to go to breakfast with her mom after the race, but hadn't yet decided where she wanted to go. This made me smile. When I was in college, my mom would come up to go to breakfast and shopping with me and we always had so much fun. As I have gotten older, we don't get as many opportunities to spend time like that together, but it is always a good time. Back to my point though. As we got closer to the finish line, I told her we could go in and have them announce her name so we could find her mom. Next thing I know, she is telling me that she had this plan with her mom about where they would meet at the end in the event they got separated. Needless to say, she crossed the finish line and headed to her meeting place to wait for her mom. Knowing the awesome people that make up the GOTR community, I knew she would be ok until her mom crossed the finish line. I was so tickled when her mom posted the picture above from their breakfast together. She sure is one sweet little girl and I am so glad I got to share that time with her. </div>
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<a href="http://www.imagesbyjessicagonzalez.com/p108100320" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Jessica Gonzales photography</span></a></div>
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Ok I lied. One more (quicker) story. I was running along cheering and doing my thing, when maybe a half mile from the finish I saw this girl and her dad walking. I asked her if she thought we could run to the finish line. She agreed and next thing I know, we were trying to keep up with her! She really took off and amazed us both. Not sure what she might have done had I not come by, but it sure was cool to see her flip the switch and run the rest of the race so STRONG. </div>
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After our cheering duties were done, we returned our pom-poms and got a cowbell and really awesome pens. Those Thirty-One ladies sure are awesome!! </div>
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In case you couldn't tell, I had an absolute blast that day. I may have been up at 4 am, ran 5 miles during the race (plus another 3 with friends after) and was exhausted at the end of it all, but I wouldn't trade a single thing. </div>
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I even got to see my mom and her friend Sheri a little bit. My mom is such an amazing supporter of all the crazy things I do and has attended quite a few 5ks since I became involved with GOTR. I even got to sneak up on them once or twice during the race while I was out buzzing around. My mom is not a runner, but has walked many miles over the years as she participates in events for good causes. I guess the apple doesn't fall from the tree? </div>
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<a href="http://www.naterpix.com/" target="_blank">naterpix</a></div>
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And of course, girls just wanna have fun!! We hopped in the photo booth as the line was trickling down and got really goofy. I loved that they put our pics together in this little montage.. makes me laugh!!</div>
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I really enjoy working with GOTR and am so glad that I got to be part of this amazing day. A huge thanks to <a href="http://momentumjewelry.com/" target="_blank">Momentum Jewelry</a> for letting us share the SPARK with this amazing group of young girls and their biggest supporters. I hope that we get the opportunity to do this again because there is really nothing that compares and we got lots of feedback about how we brightened the day of so many just by handing out these adorable SPARKlets.</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Have you ever run a 5k with your local GOTR chapter? </span></b></div>
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<i>*note: I am an ambassador for Momentum Jewelry and they sent me these bracelets to hand out. I was in no way compensated for this post, other than the perks of being an ambassador with them (which is awesome!!) I love their products and all views are my own. I also work with GOTR as a volunteer and was not paid in any way to share my story.I truly love and enjoy working with both of these crews and am grateful for the opportunity to do so.*</i></div>
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<br />Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02318222672284772370noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5300169640220079792.post-51934856684774682542017-05-18T14:37:00.000-04:002017-05-18T15:02:14.487-04:00Harper's Ferry Half 2017Last summer while visiting my sister in WV, my mom found a flyer advertising some local races. There was a spring half, 5k and kids fun run as well as a fall full, half, 5k and kids run. I knew these events had to go on my 2017 calendar. The best part about the spring race, <a href="http://www.harpersferryhalf.org/" target="_blank">Harper's Ferry Half Marathon</a>, was that my sister lives about 10 minutes from the start line. The half marathon started at 8:00 am at <a href="http://www.riverriders.com/" target="_blank">River Riders</a> which has both water activities and an adventure park with zip-lining and other really neat stuff. I hope to go back another time and explore.<br />
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Back to the race though...</div>
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Communication leading up to race day was awesome and ensured I wouldn't miss a single detail. Friday evening, packet pick up was at the Clarion hotel right behind/above the River Riders location. The process was simple and we were in and out without a problem.We even had to switch my oldest nephew to the 5k since online registration only let my sister's sign him up for the fun run- this was also super easy. Friday evening I received an email encouraging us to be at the parking lot for 7:15 am due to traffic and parking. </div>
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Saturday morning I got up a little after 6 to make sure I had plenty of time to eat, get myself together and get out the door to the race. Funny enough, I actually missed the entrance to River Riders, had to make a U-turn and still made it in there by 7:17 am. I was a little worried when my car slipped a tiny bit in the mud as I was driving to the next spot, but I parked and got myself settled. Because it was chilly, I sat in my car for about 20 minutes or so until I heard some loud announcements which turned out to be the RD talking about the course. When I got out of the car and took off my sweatshirt, I shivered a little thanks to the mist coming down. </div>
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On my way to the starting area, there was an older man that I made a comment to which then turned into chatting with him until the start of the race. He was relatively new to running and also plans to run the fall marathon. We shared our training plans for the summer and what events we had coming up. He told me that his plan for the race was to take it easy and enjoy it as a training run; I told him that I was going to enjoy the run as well, but also see what I could do pace-wise. We both knew it would be a challenge and just wanted to enjoy it. It was so fun to see and cheer for each other as we passed on the out and back areas. </div>
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The race started on the downhill in front of River Riders and then headed into some grassy paths and hills. </div>
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By mile 3, we were actually back to the start line which meant -YES- climbing back up that hill we ran down at the start. It was perfect timing though, because I got to see my husband and oldest nephew as they were waiting for the 5k start,</div>
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After we clawed our way up the steep hill, we headed to a short section of trail and then to a path of sand/pebble mix filled with puddles. This was a short out and back section with some nice views at the turn around, or so I heard.</div>
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See that big opening over there?? Apparently there was a gorgeous overlook, but it wasn't until these pictures were posted that I even had a clue. There were groups of people in later pictures who actually stopped for selfies and to enjoy the view. I am so bummed to have missed out, but vow to pay better attention next time. </div>
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On the way back out of this section, I talked to the girls ahead of me in the picture above. One of them had on a Hershey Half race shirt from 2016 and I asked if they were from the area. Turns out they were from Lancaster and had actually run Hershey as their first half! This was extra cool since it was my first back in 2013 as well. We chatted as we headed into the next section of the race which was dirt trail, my favorite! The trail little muddy and we were not on it for too long before we headed back out on the road. </div>
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There was a really nice long down hill and it felt great to finally let lose and just glide down the road. One girl even joked that this was her favorite mile of the race so far. Little did we know just how much we were in for in the remaining 7 miles of this race.</div>
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From here we made the journey into Harper's Ferry National Park. There was a little bit of trail before coming out into this really beautifully foggy area where I slowed to take these two pictures</div>
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From here we headed up the HUGE hill into Harper's Ferry. Remember the girl who said that the earlier downhill was her favorite mile? I ran into her again at this point and we kept passing each other until we finally made it to the top. I took walk breaks when my legs burned so badly I couldn't lift them to run and kept running as much as possible. It also did not help that the rain really picked up at this point and I had to keep wiping the water from my eyes so I could see where I was going. There were so many awesome cheer crews and people in town it really lifted my spirits after that insane hill. Knowing that we would get to go back down that hill later was also an amazing feeling. </div>
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The path back through Harper's Ferry had us detoured through a neighborhood and got to come down a steep hill to another impressive view.</div>
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Not the best picture but you get the point... look at that FOG!<br />
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From here, we got to finish the descent back out of town, Seeing people with coffee and smelling the pastries in the air was really hard; it all smelled SO GOOD!!<br />
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By this point we are around mile 10 or so and I remembered back to the speech from the RD at the beginning of the race. He told us to save our energy for the last climb from mile 11 to 12. DUDE. He wasn't joking. The nice <strike>hill</strike> mountain we came down around mile 5-6 was there to greet us with a vengeance at mile 11. I don't think there was a single one of that wasn't cursing or joking about how ridiculous this was. Hadn't our legs been through enough? Either way, we all got up the hill one step at a time. I grabbed some cold water from the water stop and then joyfully ran back onto the trail we had previously visited.<br />
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This was the beautiful trail full of sloppy mud from all the feet before me. One trail led to the next that led us through the<a href="http://www.harpersferrykoa.com/" target="_blank"> KOA campground</a> and to the final mile of our journey. I started to realize how trashed my legs were but knew we were close to mile 13 and almost done. I exit the trail to be faced with.. I kid you not.. a grassy UP HILL which was soaked from all the rain. I hiked up the hill since my legs were too pissed to do anything else. After I got to the top, I was able to see the finish and ran as best as I could across the finish. What a crazy race!! My official time was 2:12:09, but there was no timing mat at the beginning of the race. My watch time was 2:11:48 and either way I figure I finished a really hard race and was 57/198 females at the race so I will take it!</div>
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While I was out on my 13.1 journey, hubs and the oldest nephew conquered the 5k which was the first section of the half. </div>
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They got a little wet too!! </div>
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While we were waiting for the kids fun run, we had some pizza and you better bet I got my beer. My legs were trembling for a good 30 minutes after we finished. And check out these dirty shoes!!</div>
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The kids were so antsy and excited to run their race. The oldest kept saying how much his legs hurt from the 5k, but then KILLED the kid run. </div>
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Here is a sweet little snapshot with all the kiddos and my sister. All the older boys ran back to run mom and the youngest in to the finish. The youngest will be two next month and did a great job. Their course was down hill and back up for a total of about .7 mile. </div>
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Despite the weather being weird, I was so glad that we were all able to take part in this really neat event. If you made it to this point in the post, I applaud you. I try not to make my posts too super long, but I couldn't help this one. There were so many details about the race and so much to tell. Heck, there are still things to tell that I left out. </div>
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Bottom line is YES this was a hard race but would I do it again? HECK YES. The water stations were great, the support was great and I loved that we got to run through such neat areas. Who wants to join me?</div>
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<b><i>What's the most challenging race you have ever run?</i></b></div>
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Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02318222672284772370noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5300169640220079792.post-42731289078896292492017-05-03T21:20:00.001-04:002017-05-03T21:20:16.214-04:00It's a Wonderful LifeIf this weekend taught me anything it is that I have such amazing friends in this crazy world.. even if sometimes I don't make plans for a really long time because I am a spazz. Every day of this past weekend, I got to see some of my favorite people in the world and was reminded just how special these people are to me.<br />
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Friday night started out with some old work friends, some of who I have not seen in almost a year.<br />
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We went to dinner at our local <a href="https://www.bonefishgrill.com/locations/pa/camp-hill" target="_blank">Bonefish Grill</a> and enjoyed all the delicious food and a few drinks. It was so much fun catching up with this crew and having SO many laughs with them. I think we might have scared some of the people around us when we burst into laughter, but oh well. I can't say enough about the few hours I got to spend with this wild group. I do miss the days we all worked together and could catch up in between our appointments, but I am not sure I miss being at the job. We have all since moved on to other things but still keep in touch!</div>
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Saturday morning I was up bright and early to run my first 5k since November as part of a team for work. More on the race later because that's not the reason for this post. </div>
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I met up with my coworker, Allison, before the race since she had my bib. After we got ready, we walked over to the starting area. Earlier in the week we had decided to make breakfast plans after the race and I am so glad we did. I hadn't seen her in person in quite a while (even though we talk every day) and it was really fun to be able to do so. </div>
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We had a super amazing breakfast complete with a yummy beverage. We got some weird looks when we walked in with our running clothes and race bibs on, but again I said "oh well." We were there to get some food and catch up. I think we accomplished that mission. It is always a joy to see her and share stories, laughs, and thoughts. We had so much fun that we stood in the lot by our cars for another 2 hours chatting and both ended up with sunburn-- OOPS!!</div>
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Sunday I had a long run to get in and had amazing company while doing so. My awesome friend Michele met me at 7 to get started with 6 miles. She had a busy schedule ahead of her so she was happy to get her miles in early!! She even traded her scheduled 6 easy miles for my alternating easy/hard miles. She's the best!! She even went with my crazy idea to take some pictures along the way (and play with snails on the one path.) We were able to catch up and reflect a little on life- always a pleasure to have these chats with her. Sometimes someone else's perspective on things is so needed. </div>
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Another friend came to the group run that started at 8 (a send off/shakeout run for the HUGE group running the Pittsburgh Marathon and Half this coming weekend) and became my surprise running partner for the last 5 of my scheduled 11. I love running with Kelly because she always pushes me to be my best even when I feel like I am GOING TO DIE. In fact, she pushed me to the finish of my first marathon with a few expletives to get me going. Sunday all it took was her telling me "you can do anything for a mile, right?" Yes m'am that would be correct. And as an extra bonus she made fun of all the gnats I had all over my forehead when we were done running. What are friends for?! </div>
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Next up on my wildly amazing weekend was a top secret mission. You see, there was a 15k/50k happening about 40 minutes away and I knew a few of the people running the race; including our coach from <a href="http://fleetfeetmechanicsburg.com/" target="_blank">Fleet Feet</a>, Fred! The races started at 9am and 7:30am respectively so I had enough time to shower, grab food, and head back out the door to make the trip. </div>
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I got to the race site and walked over to where the finish was. My timing was impeccable because as I walked past the porta potties, I found my friend Michelle who I was there to meet!!</div>
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I got to see Fred heading up the final hill to the finish line about an hour or so after arriving. I told him I almost didn't get a picture and he told me "you should have told me to slow down a little." Yea ok. I almost missed it because I had my hands full of an amazing cheeseburger (that I failed to get a picture of due to my level of hanger).</div>
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One particular participant I wanted to see was Leanne. She is both a Solemate with Girls on the Run AND is in the training class with me at Fleet feet. She was doing the event as her first 50k and I was SO excited for her that I had planned kind of last minute (and secretly) to head up to the race and catch her in the last 7 or 8 miles to run with her to keep her company. Unfortunately, we learned that she had not made the cut off at mile 19. I know she will move forward a little bit stronger and kick butt next time. </div>
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Before we learned the news about Leanne, Michelle and I walked to where the runners were coming down from Pole Steeple and <strike>obnoxiously</strike> excitedly cheered for our friend Brad as he descended. Like I said no one really knew this was the plan, not even us at that moment. </div>
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He told us that we lifted his spirits after the last climb and we snagged this shot with him. It was pretty warm and he was ready to be done even though he still had about 8 miles left to go. Michelle had set out an awesome water station complete with snacks, so he grabbed some refreshments and headed on his way. After we learned about Leanne, we pondered about what to do next. We quickly had a conversation and decided we would go find Brad again! Michelle drove and navigated a road that we weren't sure we should be on, but we proceeded anyway. We had someone to find, after all. She dropped me off and I hoped for the best as I started to run on my tired legs, no Brad in sight. Remember I already ran 11 variable paced miles this morning and raced a 5k the day before? Why did I think even more miles was a good idea??</div>
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I kept wondering what would happen if I never caught up to him and just ended up running all of these miles myself. Of course that was ridiculous!! I caught up to Brad about a mile later and waited until I got really close and yelled "CAUGHT YA!!" He might have jumped a little. Not long after I caught him, we had quite the climb. But not without an equal reward.</div>
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This photo does no justice to the amazing view. I quickly told Brad that I knew this was 100% where I was supposed to be that afternoon. There was no doubt that the events of the day had happened for a reason and I was where I needed to be.</div>
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We kept trucking along and I tried to keep Brad entertained with endless chatter. We got to catch up and also chatted back and forth with another lady who we ran into many times that afternoon. Each chance Michelle had, she would meet us with water and offer any assistance she could. Brad was tired and his back was hurting, but he was such a champ and finished that 50k. </div>
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I was so happy that I got to be part of those last miles and really enjoy the journey with Brad. Some of the climbs were hard and it was definitely super warm, but I wouldn't have traded it for the world. After Brad got to the finish line, we hung out there for a little before heading back to Michelle's cabin. We sat there for a while, with another friend Jen who had been out to support Leanne at Mile 19. It was nice to sit and relax on the porch before making the drive home. </div>
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All of this to say that this weekend reminded me that I really have some great people in my life. Sometimes it is so easy to get wrapped up in all the madness of life; the to-do lists, the traffic jams, the races, and everything that life throws us that we forget we have this amazing network of support. These are people who aren't related by blood but we often consider family because of shared life experiences. By the end of the weekend, I got a little teary-eyed thinking about all these amazing people that I got to share space and time with. Obviously, the people mentioned here are not the only ones that make me feel this way, just the ones that reminded me how important it is to find "your people" in life.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SvBZSLl_KsU/WQjsiU-lJ9I/AAAAAAAA1GE/j-N47TLCeMEOw-foZF8icO9A7IrgL7FfACLcB/s1600/images%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SvBZSLl_KsU/WQjsiU-lJ9I/AAAAAAAA1GE/j-N47TLCeMEOw-foZF8icO9A7IrgL7FfACLcB/s1600/images%2B%25281%2529.jpg" /></a></div>
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Some times I crawl into a cave and socially disappear; I need to remember these moments on those days that I don't want to make plans or would rather stay home. I need to remember that I have all these amazing people to call my friends and that genuinely enjoy being with me as I do spending time with them. I need to remember that even if I am having a rough day, that maybe they are too and we just need that time to forget about it all for a little bit. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Do you ever have those moments where you just sit and think, man I am lucky?? If not, take a moment, call someone you haven't seen in a while and make plans. You won't be sorry.</b></span></div>
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<br />Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02318222672284772370noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5300169640220079792.post-89798568558042962582017-04-22T09:31:00.000-04:002017-04-22T09:31:43.464-04:00Self-care SaturdayThe past two weeks I haven't posted a single blog entry again. I am not falling back off the blogging wagon. At least I am TRYING not to. I was doing well. I planned out Monday afternoons to sit and write, to get posts ready for the coming week. The last two Mondays have been busy and I didn't get that time. It is clear that if I don't set aside time, it won't get done.<div>
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You see... between work, running, taking care of household stuff and trying to make sure I still give myself time to rest and relax... there isn't always much time left at the end of the day sometimes.</div>
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That being said, I wanted to reflect a little on the self-care idea. I have learned that if I don't do something regularly for me.. just me.. it is not good. I am not talking lavish spa days or even a trip to the salon. Sometimes its just eating a really well balanced meal, others it might be taking time to paint my toenails, or even just taking time to putz around in the garden outside. These things are relaxing and helpful to my entire well-being. </div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Gs6XH1c-lwI/WPtXZPRkPoI/AAAAAAAA0gE/o_ZTGlCYXKovWvUgXLC7UR7kzNcM9otvACLcB/s1600/self-care-in-addiction-recovery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="217" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Gs6XH1c-lwI/WPtXZPRkPoI/AAAAAAAA0gE/o_ZTGlCYXKovWvUgXLC7UR7kzNcM9otvACLcB/s320/self-care-in-addiction-recovery.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwi5uMOdkbjTAhUK8CYKHUuWC0EQjRwIBw&url=https%3A%2F%2Fmyvictorycenter.com%2Fself-care-addiction-recovery%2F&psig=AFQjCNHZVAtjyxBgVKsztwqXEUhEcBbeSQ&ust=1492952929683462" target="_blank">here</a></div>
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Self-care can also mean just logging out of social media on my phone so I don't feel the need to check it while I am watching TV or trying to accomplish chores around the house. This has been HUGE for me. I get stuff done faster and it is fun to catch up at the end of the evening instead of constantly being bombarded with notifications. If I don't do this I get frazzled, distracted, and anxious trying to keep up with all. On top of that, less gets accomplished which then adds to all of those feelings. </div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ClbDA0Hk6zQ/WPtYbsPVPqI/AAAAAAAA0gQ/A5NCHp5rDLAiJzgCQP2SGVD9kT3Mk3JgwCLcB/s1600/2ba8a099957f47057a9a362155f4e543.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="309" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ClbDA0Hk6zQ/WPtYbsPVPqI/AAAAAAAA0gQ/A5NCHp5rDLAiJzgCQP2SGVD9kT3Mk3JgwCLcB/s320/2ba8a099957f47057a9a362155f4e543.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwj_lZGQlbjTAhUBRSYKHZXvCHcQjRwIBw&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pinterest.com%2Fexplore%2Fself-care%2F&psig=AFQjCNHZVAtjyxBgVKsztwqXEUhEcBbeSQ&ust=1492952929683462" target="_blank">here</a></div>
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The older I get, the more true this becomes. If I don't do things for myself to relax and refresh, I get cranky, short-tempered, and just generally unhappy. There are times during my work day when I know that it is busy and I have just taken 10 phones calls back to back to back, but I have to step away. I can feel myself getting frustrated and not breathing as much or as deeply as I should. I take myself out of the call queue just for a few minutes, step outside, take a few deep breaths in the fresh air and then head back inside. I do work at home which is super awesome, but the job of being in call queues with lots of expectations is still just as overwhelming as being back in the office. Taking a few moments to refresh and regroup is sometimes just how I get through the day. This time for me helps me re-center and not lose my cool with people calling in (in turn helping me keep my job)</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--iTESsmYib4/WPtZ4vmZKLI/AAAAAAAA0gc/6-3ypUW_cD4aPfowkC9iICk39XF7zvmsQCLcB/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="277" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--iTESsmYib4/WPtZ4vmZKLI/AAAAAAAA0gc/6-3ypUW_cD4aPfowkC9iICk39XF7zvmsQCLcB/s400/images.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwifu5z2lLjTAhUEWSYKHZuEBhwQjRwIBw&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.erindoesbeauty.net%2Ftag%2Fself-care%2F&psig=AFQjCNHZVAtjyxBgVKsztwqXEUhEcBbeSQ&ust=1492952929683462" target="_blank">here</a></div>
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Other great self-care activities for me are yoga, baking, listening to my favorite music, sitting outside, reading, and so many more. I would love to make this a regular installment of blog posts and kind of share each week what I did to care for myself. Also as a way to check in with everyone to see if YOU took care of yourself, too. It doesn't have to be daily, but at least weekly there should be some time carved out for you; maybe you need 10 minutes a week, or maybe 10 minutes each day. Half of self-care is figuring out when and how to make it work for you. </div>
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<b><i>What do you think about self-care? Is this something you struggle with?</i></b></div>
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<b><i>If you already carve out self-care time, what is your favorite activity?</i></b></div>
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Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02318222672284772370noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5300169640220079792.post-49207527514845887602017-04-06T20:58:00.000-04:002017-04-06T20:58:07.228-04:00Thinking Out Loud Thursday <div style="text-align: center;">
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So I am a little late to the party today, but never the less I am joining <a href="http://www.runningwithspoons.com/" target="_blank">Running with spoons</a> again for some random "thinking out loud."<br />
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I will start with why I am blogging so darn late in the day- work was holy terror, then I had a hair cut (LOVE!!!), came home for about an hour, talked to my neighbor and then went on a rainy run with friends.</div>
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Today was rainy, I started work early to cover for someone who was off, and it was just entirely too busy. Stress from the start of the day is just too much for me. Took a step back, took a deep breath and just mustered on hour by hour today.</div>
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The hair cut!! My hair salon moved and their new place is super cute. I haven't had a cut in almost a year and was pretty excited to get freshened up. </div>
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I have been obsessed with watching this Netflix series <a href="https://www.netflix.com/browse?jbv=80117470&jbp=0&jbr=1" target="_blank">13 reasons why</a>. While the premise of the series is sad and revolves around a teen suicide, this series is addicting as heck. It is hard to stop watching and I am sadly already on episode 12 of 13. After my haircut, I knew I had enough time to finish an episode before I had to leave again. WIN.</div>
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The second picture is the HUGE puddle on City Island. It was supposed to be opening night for our local baseball team, but it was cancelled because it rained pretty hard most of the day. More proof that runners are badass.. we were out there anyway! BOOYA. We did just a little over 5 miles and I can honestly say I NEVER would have made it out if it was just me tonight. I really needed to run off the day though so that can never go badly.</div>
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Now I am going to sit out the last of my hair dye timer, get my yoga in for the day and call it a day.. this girl is WIPED out. Maybe not the most random post ever, but just what is on my mind today. SOOOO glad tomorrow is Friday!!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">What is the longest you have ever gone without a haircut? </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Do you like to run in the rain?</span></div>
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Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02318222672284772370noreply@blogger.com1