tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73096662179762307452024-03-13T12:36:56.636-04:00On Your Left Please...This is my running blog. I love running and often laugh way too hard not to share it with others. I love this sport and love running with and motivating others. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06261508163848946407noreply@blogger.comBlogger297125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309666217976230745.post-30990075136237064392015-08-23T19:53:00.000-04:002015-08-23T20:37:26.217-04:00Summer is almost over!!Hey Guys!!<br>
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I feel like I've had my hand on the griddle since June. Every year I promise myself I won't train through the summer and eye down a fall marathon. But alas, I can't say no to the run. But I swear, pinky swear, I won't do this ever again!<br>
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But now that the heat is waning and the humidity is creeping under 100% I feel hope! I'm really not sure how I made it this far without an injury, but ta-da! I'm still in one piece. I had a slight set back for about a week and didn't run. I became dehydrated. Like really bad. The type that doesn't bounce back after a Gatorade. I pretty much destroyed myself by not drinking enough and sweating so much. Every. Single. Day. So I had to work on getting my hydration back. Now, I'm feeling much better and moving on.<br>
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I don't know if you noticed what I just said. But I nonchalantly, in passing said I TOOK A WEEK OFF! It's hard to even retype that! You know how I am. How you are. This is not a trip to happy town. But, I knew it was short term so the freak-out-o-meter didn't go too crazy. I decided to work on my weaknesses. My flexibility, core and balance.<br>
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Don't take away my runner card! But I'm gonna say the Y word. I did it. I did Yoga. At first I felt like a traitor to my sport. Out of my element. But then it struck a cord with my perfectionist, competitive side. I wanted my poses to be better than a piece of crap. I wanted my form to do the postures justice. I was sick of my arms and legs shaking. This became a goal. I know Yoga is also kumbaya and all that fluffy stuff. But I was content with working on my breathing and form.<br>
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So I took lots of Vinyasa and Yin yoga. Stretching my connective tissues as far as I could. I refused to fold early. I worked on this 2-3 hours a day. I did this for about 3 weeks.<br>
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Then, I discovered Bikram yoga. To me, it's the only thing I have ever found that can give me a workout. It's been around since the 1970's. It's a 90 minute class of 26 postures in 105 degrees. The instructor has a dialogue that he cannot deviate from. It's 45 pages of script that will answer your every question as you get into the postures. You are encouraged to never leave the room and only drink as permitted. It's extremely regimented. Requires insane focus. No talking. Complete stillness. Do not even think of wiping the sweat off your face. That's tantamount to blowing a snot rocket in a starting corral. Be still.<br>
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So clearly, that type of yoga is for me! So I've been taking Bikram everyday since I started last week. I love the challenge. I love that regardless of what you're feeling it is best to not show it. Remain calm. Suck it up. It's 90 percent mind.<br>
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I now have to find balance between the running and Bikram yoga. I can't do 10.5 hours of hot yoga a week and train for a marathon. This week I will find that balance. The learning curve for me is so delicious it's hard to stop. I love seeing progress. I'm a freaking runner and I can touch my toes now! (Ok, I can touch my toes behind my head. I'm an overachiever!) But this is HUGE!<br>
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Here are some pictures. Some yoga, some Bikram. Not perfect. Yogi's everywhere are probably gasping but for me this is big.<br>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My first Yoga outfit. It felt weird!</td></tr>
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Thanks for reading guys!! Cheers to a wonderful week ahead. Celebrate what you can do!<br>
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LauraAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06261508163848946407noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309666217976230745.post-84269962112878286082015-07-15T17:56:00.002-04:002015-07-15T17:56:52.492-04:00Boilermaker 15k 2015Hey Guys!<br />
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My wounds have healed! I can now speak about the<br />
delicious suckage that was my goal race. The Boilermaker 15k Road Race. The largest 15k in the world with 14,000+ runners. Still my favorite race! I can't wait to do it again!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the BoilerMaker Start</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Same photo blown up to show me a few rows behind the eventual winner. I didn't have the wheels I wanted that day, but I had GUTS!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The hill is still there!</td></tr>
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So, I was invited back to the Boilermaker again this year. It was by far my favorite race last year. It's like going back to your hometown and seeing family and friends. It's super exciting. And then running a race up a hill. Uh, yes please! All my favorite things!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is Tuan. I met him last year. A great ambassador for Utica. A super great guy and Boilermaker Volunteer.</td></tr>
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I arrived Friday at noon. Fran was there to pick me and 2 other athletes up at the Syracuse airport and take us to Utica. It's a 1 hour drive. I got to the college where we would be staying and went to my room and slept. Then, waited for my friend Yonas to arrive. And then we went to dinner. I met him last year. He is on the brink of nailing a 61 minute half. A dedicated, talented athlete and great person.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fran!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yonas!</td></tr>
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The Boilermaker is sometimes called the African Olympics. The field is stacked with some of the best talent from Ethiopia, Kenya, Eritrea and Somalia. Someone had just flown in from Dubai that morning, as well as 3 from Japan. American represents equally well with amazing talent. Fernando Cabada took 1st American this year. Lindsay Scherf, Ahmad Osman...Just sick talent from everywhere. When I'm old and gray my dream will be to sit in the media truck and scream my lungs out!<br />
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The Master's women are equally competitive. It's almost like age is just a number. The wheels just keep turning and ripping the pavement off the street like it's sand. It's such a great feeling of family and togetherness among the Master's Women. But you know we all state our age and do our individual "holy fuck's" when we see who we are running against. Jen Rines won the Master's division last year. Clearly, a monstrous talent. She was possibly going to run this year but didn't. We did a collective, noooo upon hearing that news. It's that type of vibe.<br />
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It's very cool to see women just like me. They are running doubles during car pool. Up at 4am on Sunday to run long. I'm like, phew, I'm not crazy...this is normal.<br />
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So we hang out, run, eat, nap for 2 days and then wake up and race.<br />
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My Build Up:<br />
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It was dicey this year. I was training slightly off pace due to the swamp like conditions here in NC. The grind was based more on effort than the watch. This is something I had a hard time with. I tried very hard to hit the intended splits and 90% of the time I did. But the wreckage post workout was exhausting. I thought I fractured my leg a week prior to the race. There were some ups and downs. But I weather stalked and figured if I could get a good day I would be ok. That training at effort would translate into pace with cooler conditions and lower humidity. Bingo.<br />
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Race Day:<br />
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It was around 60 degrees at 6am on race morning. I was ecstatic! This was my day, finally! But 6am is not 8am. At 8am we were loaded onto the start line and the sun just baked on us through a cloudless, humid sky. So much for my ideal day. But whatever. It's Boilermaker. Just run hard. How bad can an hour be?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OHOzUz_cKnk/VabJgIv-QVI/AAAAAAAADNc/aqcUSki8jkM/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-07-15%2Bat%2B4.29.49%2BPM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="215" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OHOzUz_cKnk/VabJgIv-QVI/AAAAAAAADNc/aqcUSki8jkM/s400/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-07-15%2Bat%2B4.29.49%2BPM.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">UGH! Not part of the plan.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-APfTiT3e_Qw/VabJHkx8AUI/AAAAAAAADM4/44fNrgGl5yg/s1600/IMG_2051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-APfTiT3e_Qw/VabJHkx8AUI/AAAAAAAADM4/44fNrgGl5yg/s400/IMG_2051.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was taken at 6am. I see you!</td></tr>
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It can be hard! I ran for the 1st time ever without looking at my watch. I focused on getting mile one under control (6:24) and then maintaining that pace without looking for the race. I knew there would be some variation as it's very hilly. But given race day conditions I was probably looking at a 58-59 minute finish. About 6:20 pace. But hoping the hammering could get me 57.<br />
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So after mile one I did not run even splits. But I didn't know this. I kept my breathing hard and my effort easier on the uphills and hammering the downs. Without a watch I guess I ran the uphills too easy. And downhills slightly off as well. I started to feel better after the 5k. I felt good. Probably because I was running too slow. But it felt harder because of the sun and humidity. I was pouring water on my head every mile. Eating the ice chips. Anything to cool down. Mind you, I don't even drink during a marathon in the winter. I hate water. But my core temp must have been hot because I felt like I was going to combust.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Probably mile 2</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bsEyY4L6pso/VabJfWRmM2I/AAAAAAAADNY/PgX9LIlEhpg/s1600/328486_201777815_XLarge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bsEyY4L6pso/VabJfWRmM2I/AAAAAAAADNY/PgX9LIlEhpg/s400/328486_201777815_XLarge.jpg" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was maybe 2 steps after cresting the top of a mile plus hill. Falling apart, but trying. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
I stayed strong and kept the effort. After I hammered a long down hill at mile 5 my legs didn't feel so well. The snap was not there like I wanted. It was like my mind wanted to keep hammering but my quads were just about done helping out. Thankfully, there was plenty of course variation left to let the hamstrings play along.<br />
<br />
So I kept on thinking I had a 59 at worst in the bag. Mind you, this is still unacceptable, but I had to be real. I was telling myself to just get to mile 9. The last .3 is the treat, the cherry on top, the amazing part of the course. It is a slamming downhill into hoards of spectators.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SJfcWNhoUQs/VabTIr6YGOI/AAAAAAAADOs/vKaIH69nec0/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-07-15%2Bat%2B5.32.37%2BPM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="261" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SJfcWNhoUQs/VabTIr6YGOI/AAAAAAAADOs/vKaIH69nec0/s400/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-07-15%2Bat%2B5.32.37%2BPM.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Finish</td></tr>
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<br />
<br />
So I run what feels like 5:30 pace at mile 9 because I'm dead. It was really 6:10 pace. I got closer to the clock and my jaw dropped. I'm like shit! I'm late! I should have been here by now. What the what?! It said 1:03. I thought, well maybe that was the wheelchair start? After .00003 nanoseconds I confirmed with my Garmin 18 times that no, I really ran a shitty MP at the Boilermaker. My goal race. My favorite race. Ugh.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SS8eZXqEjUg/VabJfxtK6cI/AAAAAAAADNk/xAgCf4AsERg/s1600/328486_201860317_XLarge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SS8eZXqEjUg/VabJfxtK6cI/AAAAAAAADNk/xAgCf4AsERg/s400/328486_201860317_XLarge.jpg" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finally!</td></tr>
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<br />
<br />
I was shocked. Just shocked. I was afraid to look to my splits. However, I put my time aside and checked in on everyone else. The elite tent had your average collection of DNF's, PR's, cramping, wincing athletes, joy, sorrow, news reporters and USADA in full effect trailing half of them. It brings it back to the reality that racing is an adventure. Shit can go wrong or shit can go epically right. We all put ourselves out there on the line for the adventure and the experience. Hoping it's less pain and more elation, but accepting of either.<br />
<br />
If racing were a string of PR's we would probably quit and play tennis after a year or so. The bad days always make the good days so rewarding. Yada, yada.<br />
<br />
Back at the Hotel sipping purple chongos...<br />
<br />
Or Gatorade. It was time to shower and get on the greyhound back to the airport. I was sad. As an invited athlete you tend to feel like a kid in 3rd grade that wants to bring home a perfect spelling test and wave it in the air! You want to get the bonus word right as a token of appreciation. Well, my spelling test sucked. I felt horrible. I deserved to be in corral F. I hugged the amazing people that invited me and said good bye. I slept on the bus ride back.<br />
<br />
Time always helps put things in perspective. Again, I am honored to race among such amazing talent. To make new friends and memories. That is what life is about.<br />
<br />
Caveat: This is my 2nd race where I have been underwhelmed. Boston 2015 (3:02). While this is great in learning what I'm made of, seeing my mental strengths, motivating myself to try harder....this is ending! This is BULLSHIT! I want more! I will never give up. I work my ass off. I will push pine needles with my fucking nose if it makes my body stronger.<br />
<br />
To avoid this disaster in the future I may make a few adjustments:<br />
<br />
1. Not avoid all racing for 4 months prior to my goal race.<br />
<br />
2. Not DNF a race the weekend before said goal race and have to carry that mental baggage to the start line.<br />
<br />
3. Not plan on conditions being ideal.<br />
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4. Check my watch more often for a reality check.<br />
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Thanks for reading. As always, thanks for your kind words and encouragement. I am dying to wave the happy flag after a race very soon! After signing up for another marathon the week after Boston and then changing my mind I have a self imposed ban on redemption races for 2 weeks. No active.com just yet. But My next big goal is an October Marathon!! WOOHOO!<br />
<br />
Laura<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06261508163848946407noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309666217976230745.post-40367690729956608242015-07-06T15:15:00.001-04:002015-07-06T15:16:34.811-04:00I'm Back in the Saddle!<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GKlhM43hAF8/VZrT2-BD2lI/AAAAAAAADME/HSoinQDLzck/s640/blogger-image--583054148.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GKlhM43hAF8/VZrT2-BD2lI/AAAAAAAADME/HSoinQDLzck/s640/blogger-image--583054148.jpg"></a></div><br></div><br></div>Hey oh, oh eh Guys!<div><br></div><div>I just had my leg examined by my orthopedist. My X-ray's are negative. My leg is not broken!</div><div><br></div><div>Basically, I have a huge amount of scar tissue over the old fracture site. This is the area that has been giving me trouble. I knew I had scar tissue there because I can feel it. It has not bothered me during marathon training and running easy. </div><div><br></div><div>However, over the past few weeks I have increased my paces. My leg was happily plodding along at 7 pace. However, at 6 pace and faster my leg was getting cranky. That's because I'm really stretching that area on toe off. </div><div><br></div><div>So, I need to suck it up and keep going! I need to run harder and break up the scar tissue. Pile on the massage. Poke it with an ice pick! </div><div><br></div><div>I can't tell you the peace of mind this gives me. It has been so stressful to run knowing that I was possibly breaking my leg again.</div><div><br></div><div>So onward!!</div><div><br></div><div>Thank you for all your kind messages of support. You guys rock! Hopefully I will too!!!</div><div><br></div><div>Laura<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06261508163848946407noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309666217976230745.post-39003618414825289072015-07-04T20:34:00.000-04:002015-07-04T20:34:32.457-04:00My 1st DNF<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hey Guys!!<br />
<br />
I have regretfully let my blog slip this summer. I'm so sorry! And now I have a big fat fail to report. You know I love reading about your fails and successes. I like to learn what works and what doesn't work for you guys. So, here's what happened on my trip into downtown FAIL-VILLE.<br />
<br />
I wish I could say, ah-ha! That's it! But it's never so easy. First, I hate summer running. Every year I swear I won't train through the summer. But I usually do. And I usually wreck myself. However, I am not sure if or how wrecked I am, yet.<br />
<br />
I had a few tough weeks adjusting to the heat and humidity in NC. Fine. So did everyone else. Then last week I felt like I was finally able to run without bitching, crying, reporting the weather on all my Strava links. I did it! I kept plugging away. I felt good.<br />
<br />
BUT<br />
<br />
I'm a liar. I will deny any pain to myself and others until blood is pouring out of my eyeballs. And then I will tell you it's a nosebleed smearing around because I ate too much gluten for dinner. I will grimace until my teeth break before acknowledging pain. Unless there is bone showing, keep going. But it's <span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>not</b></span> to be a tough guy. It's because I'm willing the pain away. If I don't acknowledge it, it doesn't exist! The pain to me is because:<br />
<br />
*I ran too fast on my way out of Umstead yesterday.<br />
*I switched to a 0 drop too aggressively.<br />
*just too many cul de sac turns too fast.<br />
*too much mileage. Not enough mileage.<br />
*too many rocks on the trails.<br />
*dehydration. I just need to drink more.<br />
<br />
I can't say that when I run I'm in pain. I'm not. But afterwards I sometimes feel like shit. But by the next run I'm okay. That's normal, right? Historically, I run a lot. I run hard. So that's the price I pay. I'm good with that. I've said it a million times: I rather run hard and injure ~once a year then run safe and stay healthy. I LOVE the fine line. I love the edge. I love the success that comes with pushing myself at the risk of wrecking myself.<br />
<br />
So it's all very vague for me in the summer. I can't tell when to back off. And quite frankly, I don't think I would back off. Only a few of you will nod your head to that one.<br />
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<span style="color: blue;"><b>KERNERSVILLLE 4TH OF JULY 5K</b></span><br />
<br />
So, this morning I had a 5k scheduled. I hate 5k's. But I looked at it as though it was a matter of minutes until I could claim my reward for all my hard work. Just a few crappy miles to solidify that summer can't touch me. I planned on doing the motions and collecting an 18:35-18:45. Taking my dinky trophy home and moving on.<br />
<br />
Contrar Mu Frar.<br />
<br />
Let me back up to my strides yesterday. They always predict my fitness. My strides were strong, almost obnoxious for parking lot running. I did 4x200 getting the pace just under 5 pace. I was sure my 5k would be tit.<br />
<br />
I did my 2 mile warm up. I switched shoes. Then, I went to go do strides before the start and I couldn't. My body was saying no. I tried to push and I was getting zapped in my ankle. I thought that was weird. But still, I lined up because I drove almost 2 hours and I'm fucking fit! <br />
<br />
So the gun goes off and I feel paralyzed. Partly out of fear that I'm about to break my leg on the next step. I told myself to shut up and suck it up. I closed my eyes and went hard again. It wasn't working. My leg was acting weird. It was getting a warm burning feeling like it was torn. My range of motion was stolen. I figured I was being a wimp because I don't like 5k's. I kept trying to go. But it was like my legs were on backwards. I was so focused on figuring out what was going on that I was running like shit. Or was I making this up? Don't know. See above section on lying.<br />
<br />
So, after about .50 I decided I would DNF. I made that scrunchy face trying to hide my dissappointment. I have never quit a race. Then, the logistics came into play. I was running on a parade route and there was no escape! What a nightmare. I scanned feverishly and found a space between some people and ran into a parking lot. I stopped. I thought, now what? It's over? I failed. My kids had secretly made all these "I'm proud of you" signs and I have to say I stopped running? I tapered all week for this?<br />
<br />
I was shocked. I figured I overreacted and this was some horrible dream. My leg didn't hurt standing there. I decided to do a long cool down. That lasted maybe another 3 miles before I was almost crying again. Now, I'm really upset. I'm mope-running, avoiding the finish line...circling a bank parking a zillion times just for mileage. Ridiculous.<br />
<br />
So, after talking to a few friends and feeling cheered up a little, I left. I sat in my car and mutilated my leg trying to self diagnosis. I need to know NOW if this is broken or strained, torn...I can't take uncertainty. Well, I don't know. I'm going to have to wait until Monday to see my Ortho.<br />
<br />
So that sums up my 8:30 hour this morning. I'll probably swim until my rotator cuffs fall off tomorrow.<br />
<br />
On a side note. The part of my leg that hurts is the exact area of my fibula I fractured into 2 pieces last August. The odds of breaking a fibula are less than 10%. The odds of rebreaking a fibula are NILL according to my Ortho. He said it would be impossible to break it in the same area again. So I will relax knowing that is MUST be soft tissue. I just stepped on something, ya....until Monday, that's my story!<br />
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I promise to update you. Thanks for caring and reading. : )<br />
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Laura<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06261508163848946407noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309666217976230745.post-78348060118264910732015-05-19T19:51:00.000-04:002015-05-19T19:51:00.523-04:00A Month Post BostonHey Guys!<br />
<br />
Sorry I have been MIA. It's never so easy to move on after a crappy race. Especially, a marathon. It's not like a 5k that can be repeated the following weekend. So, I went through the usual range of emotions:<br />
<br />
1. I'm always proud after I marathon. I was proud of this Boston.<br />
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2. Then, disappointed. I worked so hard. The grieving for that probably took 2 weeks.<br />
<br />
3. Then, I really wanted to race another marathon. Badly!<br />
<br />
4. Then, I didn't want to run 20 miles ever again.<br />
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5. Then, I let it go. Live and learn. I moved on.<br />
<br />
I mean c'mon. It was a 3:02. The self whining was ridiculous. Yes, I failed to reach my goal. But hell, at least I wasn't injured. I left the finish line with a bruised ego but also with a shit ton of fitness that I would build off of. Then, shop around to other shorter races.<br />
<br />
I bought new running shoes. I bought 2 pairs of booty shorts and said ONWARD!<br />
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Now, I'm back to 5k/10k/15k training. I'm not stalking any fall marathons YET, but when I feel fit I'm going for it. Last summer most of my long runs could have been pushed into marathons with great PR's. But I waited too long and eventually injured. Lesson learned.<br />
<br />
My mileage is around 80/week now. I'm in the gym about 5 days a week doing core, stretching, arms. It's almost like a vacation. But the humidity is surely starting to destroy that fantasy!<br />
<br />
I'm in a good spot now. I am happy with my training. I'm up at 4:30am 7 days a week and usually have shoes on ground by 5:30ish. I get to watch the sunrise and do what I love to do. But don't take that fluff for defeat or complacency. <span style="font-size: large;">I am hungry!</span> I want a better summer than last year. I want a 5k, 10k and 15k PR. Then I want to march my ass 26.2 miles to my fastest marathon yet. I won't concede. I won't give up.<br />
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That is why I love this sport. Sure, you can have fails, but as long as you learn from them then you'll just be that much stronger. If someone said, Laura: HERE is the recipe for a 2:50 marathon. Do this, eat that and you'll get there guaranteed. I would say, get that needle out of my arm! Haha. Joke. I would say no, training is an adventure. It's life, it's living. I don't want the easy way out. I love the daily grind, becoming stronger. Give it here!<br />
<br />
Again, thank you for all your support and kind words! I'm really just a physical token of all the cheers, love, support and encouragement I get from you guys. Without that I may as well just treadmill in the dark. LOL.<br />
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Cheers to happy summer running guys! I promise to update more!!<br />
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Laura<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06261508163848946407noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309666217976230745.post-28174791162257351862015-04-22T20:17:00.000-04:002015-04-22T20:17:46.127-04:00My Boston Marathon 2015 Race ReportHey Guys!<br />
<br />
I feel weird saying this. But, I'm not as upset as you may think. Clearly, that is not the race I had trained for. While I am bummed I didn't go sub 2:55, I'm more bummed that we had horrible race conditions. That, I can't control. If we had 40 degrees and a tailwind and I ran the same time I would be sick to my stomach!<br />
<br />
I can't say thank you enough for your support. Every mat I crossed I thought of all of you. I knew Pete in Japan had set his alarm clock to see my finish. I knew my Mom was my social media director. I knew Joey was biting his lip after my 15k split and crossing his fingers. I knew the teachers at my kid's school had the tracking projected on the board. My sister did the same in her own classroom. I am and was beyond honored that you care.<br />
<br />
But SHIT it was miserable. It came down to logical reasoning for me. The rain, wind and cold took me out mentally before they did physically. I knew when it was pouring sideways at 9am with a 20+mph headwind it was going to be tough. I have never even tempo'd 6 miles with any degree of success in wind half as strong. So, I approached the start with a slightly defeated but optimistic attitude. I would will the conditions away. Draft. Focus.<br />
<br />
That technique lasted about 10 miles. I was screwing my head into the wind at times. Trying to fight it. I took other measures to conserve energy. I kept my arm swing minimal and tight. I didn't hammer any of the uphills. When the wind would break I tried to stride my split time down. This wasn't working. At the half I knew I was done. I couldn't push any harder. I'm 100 pounds. The wind was strong. My clothes and shoes were soaked. I couldn't even see at times because the rain was so blinding.<br />
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I tried to run the rest of the race as best I could. I wanted to stay strong and kept hope that the conditions would change. That is a tough agenda when you know every footstep is off goal. Then, on top of that the weather became worse as I approached Boston. I was laughing at times in disbelief. Was this really happening?!<br />
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The pace felt moderate. But the effort was sub marathon pace. It was a messed up feeling. How could I be running so slow but giving so much?<br />
<br />
I stopped looking at my watch after 2 hours. It was depressing. But it's BOSTON! I mean, there was no boohoo'ing. The fans were out in full force. I was running the race most runner's dream about. I wasn't going to be a little bitch because I was wrecking my Sub-3 streak. I really enjoyed the race despite not running as fast as I wanted. I finished with a smile on my face in 3:02. I'm not defeated. Success is not always linear. I'm probably a little too eager to redeem myself but that's ok.<br />
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My plan is to babysit my fitness for a few weeks and do it again! I worked hard for the shape I'm in. I'm not shutting it down and waking up in 5k land in a month. I'm going to recover and try again. I know I can do it.<br />
<br />
The Good:<br />
<br />
*I feel fine. Not even a blister.<br />
*I'm confident in my training and fitness level.<br />
*Brooks T7 Racers are great marathon shoes.<br />
*I didn't get the hypothermic shakes until the finish line.<br />
* I had loving family standing at the finish line.<br />
*I found the best hairstyle for marathoning! See below.<br />
*I will never stop doing this marathon!<br />
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The Bad:<br />
<br />
*I'm sitting here and I can't think of anything. I refuse to feel sorry for myself. I'm still healthy, alive and happy! There is no bad. I ran the Boston Marathon for a 3rd time. I am elated to have the privilege.<br />
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The Immediate Plan:<br />
Recover this week. Do some easy runs. I'll KNOW what I have. Considering I feel nearly flawless I am planning on another marathon soon. Within the next month. I'm still in the planning stage.<br />
<br />
Here are some pics from the weekend. Thanks again guys!! I love you all! XO<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C5k7jqFh2bM/VTgwbVTTDFI/AAAAAAAADHw/N9m_M34mXA8/s1600/IMG_9174.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C5k7jqFh2bM/VTgwbVTTDFI/AAAAAAAADHw/N9m_M34mXA8/s1600/IMG_9174.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A joke. I was lost again in Boston...</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vFjqHj5678s/VTgwmtRdMlI/AAAAAAAADIE/CJ0jbRmrRvo/s1600/IMG_9188.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vFjqHj5678s/VTgwmtRdMlI/AAAAAAAADIE/CJ0jbRmrRvo/s1600/IMG_9188.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pre race wind...</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fvkn8VFmgPs/VTgwqrSNz1I/AAAAAAAADIY/er11CzeH6-M/s1600/IMG_9196.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fvkn8VFmgPs/VTgwqrSNz1I/AAAAAAAADIY/er11CzeH6-M/s1600/IMG_9196.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Boston Sunrise</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zYOx6JEsP8w/VTgwwlBlVWI/AAAAAAAADIw/59RjbBwImvU/s1600/IMG_9201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zYOx6JEsP8w/VTgwwlBlVWI/AAAAAAAADIw/59RjbBwImvU/s1600/IMG_9201.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I saw this in a running magazine. I highly recommend! </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lnHobAncY-w/VTgwpAH2q8I/AAAAAAAADIQ/Oztl2edi4zQ/s1600/IMG_9221.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lnHobAncY-w/VTgwpAH2q8I/AAAAAAAADIQ/Oztl2edi4zQ/s1600/IMG_9221.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The light was right. The kids, not so much!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M0C3g8kq270/VTgwryfRWUI/AAAAAAAADIg/s0HnEu1-SK0/s1600/IMG_9222.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M0C3g8kq270/VTgwryfRWUI/AAAAAAAADIg/s0HnEu1-SK0/s1600/IMG_9222.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Every race, forever...</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VFKVU1aoDOk/VTgwzrmyvTI/AAAAAAAADJA/Os8GOR8ia_s/s1600/IMG_9261.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VFKVU1aoDOk/VTgwzrmyvTI/AAAAAAAADJA/Os8GOR8ia_s/s1600/IMG_9261.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kathy!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E87TpYraNmo/VTgwuzyBFdI/AAAAAAAADIo/uuPT4Xtc_0Y/s1600/IMG_9275.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E87TpYraNmo/VTgwuzyBFdI/AAAAAAAADIo/uuPT4Xtc_0Y/s1600/IMG_9275.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pre race 5am. </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cX9UrqW-h_U/VTgwyNrryoI/AAAAAAAADI4/4919RATweI8/s1600/IMG_9276.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cX9UrqW-h_U/VTgwyNrryoI/AAAAAAAADI4/4919RATweI8/s1600/IMG_9276.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Post race lunch with my finish line dream team</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5N01IDyorqk/VTgw43WITgI/AAAAAAAADJk/Y7bW3ocseLI/s1600/IMG_9281.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5N01IDyorqk/VTgw43WITgI/AAAAAAAADJk/Y7bW3ocseLI/s1600/IMG_9281.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My BFF at the hotel. She helped with train tickets and hair stylists.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H0QDBHrXkAE/VTgwzwpA0ZI/AAAAAAAADJE/fCiLFyUeh5Y/s1600/IMG_9284.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H0QDBHrXkAE/VTgwzwpA0ZI/AAAAAAAADJE/fCiLFyUeh5Y/s1600/IMG_9284.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">10 seconds post race.10 seconds pre hypothermia</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7v_JtlwGpeI/VTgw1bTmsDI/AAAAAAAADJQ/e-_4_wfoaGU/s1600/IMG_9287.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7v_JtlwGpeI/VTgw1bTmsDI/AAAAAAAADJQ/e-_4_wfoaGU/s1600/IMG_9287.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My babies tracking me in school.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZABggsCTc1E/VTgw2olpJjI/AAAAAAAADJY/vX1XWjeDbNk/s1600/IMG_9295.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZABggsCTc1E/VTgw2olpJjI/AAAAAAAADJY/vX1XWjeDbNk/s1600/IMG_9295.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Joey and stretching on Tuesday morning. </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FijjkpbLE2s/VTgw431EYyI/AAAAAAAADJg/wVamz39SHBo/s1600/IMG_9320.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FijjkpbLE2s/VTgw431EYyI/AAAAAAAADJg/wVamz39SHBo/s1600/IMG_9320.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Can you tell what I did on Monday? If not, I'll tell YOU!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k5nQzJ75FKQ/VTg0-AxtVtI/AAAAAAAADJ0/hQYszLbM7f8/s1600/272149_191371640_Medium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k5nQzJ75FKQ/VTg0-AxtVtI/AAAAAAAADJ0/hQYszLbM7f8/s1600/272149_191371640_Medium.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heading down to the start.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xZAaOZ3H2vY/VTg0-RNIkCI/AAAAAAAADJ8/h3HGoXHhmyA/s1600/272149_191454218_Medium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xZAaOZ3H2vY/VTg0-RNIkCI/AAAAAAAADJ8/h3HGoXHhmyA/s1600/272149_191454218_Medium.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My ONE race photo is sucking air on Heartbreak Hill. The bib is starting to fold...</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S1p1k-axWOo/VTg0-Q-fSxI/AAAAAAAADJ4/TNUG4ep3PEE/s1600/272149_191988763_Medium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S1p1k-axWOo/VTg0-Q-fSxI/AAAAAAAADJ4/TNUG4ep3PEE/s1600/272149_191988763_Medium.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finish</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L_SGDfFzBa4/VTg0-wshHNI/AAAAAAAADKA/xYA1RiIKWtI/s1600/272149_191988765_Medium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L_SGDfFzBa4/VTg0-wshHNI/AAAAAAAADKA/xYA1RiIKWtI/s1600/272149_191988765_Medium.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finish</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Thanks for reading! I will keep you posted on plan B. You know I'm not done yet!<br />
<br />
Laura<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06261508163848946407noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309666217976230745.post-1937990102293834782015-04-19T21:09:00.000-04:002015-04-19T21:09:00.400-04:00Marathon Eve!Hey Guys!<br />
<br />
A quick check in on the night before Boston 2015. I am ready for a fight tomorrow! I want to see blood! I am tapered, healthy and ready to roll. I want to work, suffer and feel victory. I want to give every fiber of my being to this race. I want to see how tough I am. I want to feel proud.<br />
<br />
I am probably more excited than I have ever been pre race. I know we are going to have deplorable conditions. Rain turning to pouring rain, 40 degrees, feeling like 35, and a 20-30mph head wind the entire race.<br />
<br />
But I don't give a shit! I've trained in this. My goal is to give my best regardless of conditions. The cold is fine. The humidity will be okay. The wind...I'll follow a big dude. I still have fight, strength and great hair!<br />
<br />
It's on!!!<br />
<br />
Here are some random pics from the weekend!<br />
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Thank you again for your support!! You guys are going down to Boston with me. Hang the F- on!<br />
<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Honey, I'm home!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wgkx54Wt3cA/VTRQ2jZE-3I/AAAAAAAADHA/Gp3wYsU4l6k/s1600/IMG_9201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wgkx54Wt3cA/VTRQ2jZE-3I/AAAAAAAADHA/Gp3wYsU4l6k/s1600/IMG_9201.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Race hair!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vuzCjmuXKyw/VTRQ2uptTsI/AAAAAAAADG8/GkibUHi9l9M/s1600/IMG_9221.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vuzCjmuXKyw/VTRQ2uptTsI/AAAAAAAADG8/GkibUHi9l9M/s1600/IMG_9221.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">They better move tomorrow!</td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06261508163848946407noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309666217976230745.post-51650210400486477032015-04-15T20:47:00.000-04:002015-04-15T20:47:03.834-04:00Marathon pics over the years!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hey Guys!<br />
<br />
It's me again! Bored out of my mind and up late. It's 8 freaking 30pm on a Wednesday! Woohoo!<br />
<br />
So check these photos out. These are photos of me in each of my previous 3 marathons. And 1 of me last week. RUN MORE YO!<br />
<br />
THE SHIT'S GOING DOWN!!<br />
<br />
P.S. I can't believe I'm posting these. But it's a testament to my ever increasing dedication and mileage over the years. I'm proud of all my races and training. I wouldn't change it for the world!<br />
<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0Vr4YxNM0JI/VS8Cn2i-SQI/AAAAAAAADFo/ndk2voc57cA/s1600/eugene10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0Vr4YxNM0JI/VS8Cn2i-SQI/AAAAAAAADFo/ndk2voc57cA/s1600/eugene10.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My 1st Marathon Eugene 2012. 3:02</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j6SI0qcNStw/VS8CovbfXFI/AAAAAAAADF0/UOkyDd1dF9I/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2013-04-18%2Bat%2B6.43.19%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j6SI0qcNStw/VS8CovbfXFI/AAAAAAAADF0/UOkyDd1dF9I/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2013-04-18%2Bat%2B6.43.19%2BPM.png" height="400" width="268" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My 2nd Marathon. Boston 2013 2:58</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ar6_Wo8qdTM/VS8CtGo6qsI/AAAAAAAADF8/Htb5APR8Sxw/s1600/761557-1318-0010s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ar6_Wo8qdTM/VS8CtGo6qsI/AAAAAAAADF8/Htb5APR8Sxw/s1600/761557-1318-0010s.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My 3rd Marathon Boston 2014 2:58</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pCQnnBt6ulI/VS8Cl0JT1nI/AAAAAAAADFg/UTy328ayCHQ/s1600/Image%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pCQnnBt6ulI/VS8Cl0JT1nI/AAAAAAAADFg/UTy328ayCHQ/s1600/Image%2B2.jpg" height="400" width="317" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">BoilerMaker 15k When I started getting really serious 58:52 I had to throw this one in : )</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EOvXgkddyIY/VS8Cl0YEWTI/AAAAAAAADFk/KG2sEEeOqX0/s1600/IMG_8729.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EOvXgkddyIY/VS8Cl0YEWTI/AAAAAAAADFk/KG2sEEeOqX0/s1600/IMG_8729.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Last week. Ready for Boston 2015!</td></tr>
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More Later Guys!!XO</div>
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P.S. No earbuds this year. I'm a big girl now!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06261508163848946407noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309666217976230745.post-61288114801405192462015-04-12T19:32:00.000-04:002015-04-12T19:32:44.183-04:00A Quick Check In!Hey guys!!<br />
<br />
Finally an 83 mile week! Taper is here! I either going to be really FAST in a week or freaking fat, haha.<br />
<br />
It's so weird going from 5 doubles a week to nearly none this week. I look forward to singles in the morning but then when evening comes around I think my body revolts. Not only do I miss my evening shake out run, but that also means HOUSEWORK. Um, ya. At 5pm in my house it's either homework, dishes or dinner. HATED IT!<br />
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But forget the crusty cookie sheets, dog crap in the living room and piles of laundry. Let's celebrate that I haven't busted my ass in the most epic build up of my marathoning career! 100-126 miles a week since January 1st. (14 weeks) For the last month I've felt run down. Now I feel like this. Awe YEAHHHHH!<br />
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Today, I ran my last double digit run. 14 miles. I was podding along running easy pace. Then I saw my most favorite nameless greenway runner. I see him enough in passing to recognize him but I'm not sure who he is. I know he reads my blog. So I shouted out: 1 MORE WEEK! Then, he goes TOP 100 with a high 5 so hard that I almost ricocheted into the woods!!! Like, a kid in a candy store. I got all excited! I'm like ya, you're right! Sometimes I lose sight of the big picture and whine about blisters and small stuff. But he's right!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5cj1nXYCPls/VSr-B8KoPpI/AAAAAAAADEg/urWv31Vaq2Q/s1600/IMG_9014.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5cj1nXYCPls/VSr-B8KoPpI/AAAAAAAADEg/urWv31Vaq2Q/s1600/IMG_9014.PNG" height="400" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">As you can tell I saw the Greenway Runner right when I went from easy to moderate pace. Mile 10ish. The power of the high 5!</td></tr>
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I'm training to run the fastest marathon of my life. My 3rd consecutive Sub 3 Boston Marathon. I want to break into the top 100 females and top 10 age group. I'm a few peeps away from that goal.<br />
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I'm just putting it out there. I'm not afraid of failure. Hell, I push my limits every single day. We all know I could injure, burn out, or something on the highly probable list. But I haven't! I've been smart. I have excellent coaching that has been superbly designed for me and my strengths. (That's next blog) Nothing has been left to chance. The game is ON!<br />
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Now, I'm picking out shoes, outfits and nail color. Wooohoooo! Here are some potentials!<br />
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So, I'll check back in soon! I love you guys and all your support! Have a great night!<br />
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Laura<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06261508163848946407noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309666217976230745.post-63497849352118476602015-03-27T15:53:00.000-04:002015-03-28T21:11:00.302-04:00Marathoning is way more than RunningIt's me again guys! I figure if I can run twice a day I should be able to blog twice. I have so many things to say but the fatigue monster keeps throwing me on the couch. haha<br>
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So, as I continue my training for my 3rd Boston Marathon I have tried to pull out what works for me and hopefully it will help you too. We all know that eating well, hydrating, sleep etc are important. But let me analyze things a little further.<br>
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Diet:<br>
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<span style="color: red;"><b>Sugar</b></span>: I'm on my 3rd year of no refined sugar. I'll never look back. Sugar is inflammation. Runners typically avoid that at all costs. Easy. Done. Next!<br>
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<span style="color: red;">Protein</span>: Quest Bars and Quest Bars. 20g of protein. 180 calories. No sugar. I eat 3 a day minimum. Or whatever it takes to keep my daily protein at 80-100 grams. Lots of chicken, beans, almonds...Protein repairs your muscles. When you destroy them like I do it's almost a guilt trip if I don't feed them. I think of my muscles as a 3rd person helping me do what I love. Good job guys!<br>
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<span style="color: red;"><b>Carbohydrates</b></span>: Yes please. Pasta, sweet potatoes, rice..repeat....<br>
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<span style="color: red;"><b>Water</b></span>: Hate it! I've been adding <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Herbalife-Herbal-Aloe-Drink-Concentrate/dp/B002MWGN0A">Herbal Life Mango flavored Aloe</a> to my water. It's really good and makes hydration bearable. Otherwise I could exist on espresso.<br>
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Nutrition on the Run:<br>
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Last year was about the gels. This year I've bonked twice upon taking a cafinated gel. I got dizzy and had a bad reaction. So my super talented friend Diluca told me to try <a href="https://www.generationucan.com/">Generation UCAN</a>. I did and haven't hit the wall yet! I mix one drink 30 minutes before I run long or any run that I think is worth $3.50 for the single serve packet. lol. It is sustained energy. Even keel. And can I say yummy? I like the raspberry one.<br>
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<a href="http://www.sportlegs.com/about/welcome.asp">Sport Legs</a> have always been in my bag. They keep the burn away. I take 2 before every run with effort.<br>
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I don't hydrate while running. Carrying a water bottle wears me out. And I seem to do ok without. This only applies to winter running.<br>
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<span style="color: red;"><b>Sleep</b></span>: For weeks 1-4 of my build up I didn't need naps. For weeks 5-8 I needed 2 1-hour naps a week. Now, if I don't get a daily 30-60 minute nap I will cut you! Napping in the car while waiting for my child to finish their 75th extracurricular activity is okay! I have tints.<br>
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I'm trying to think of what else. It's very important to get a good 20 grams of protein in immediately post run. I don't care if it's 8 miles. Eat a Quest Bar. I say this emphatically because I'm turning out big weeks and every run has the potential to nick at me. I need to protect myself from injury.<br>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uXyvN1WOWlE/VRWyYC_NXYI/AAAAAAAADDU/kBhf3M8RYsg/s1600/lazer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uXyvN1WOWlE/VRWyYC_NXYI/AAAAAAAADDU/kBhf3M8RYsg/s1600/lazer.jpg" height="225" width="400"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Keeping the niggles away</td></tr>
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I guess it's not rocket science. But I can guarantee that if I ate doughnuts and drank Pepsi I would not feel the same and most likely I would be nursing some injury. <span style="color: blue;"><b>#not20anymore</b></span><br>
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I hope this helps. These products work for me. My next blog will be on the people that are getting me to the start HEALTHY! Again, I don't just wing it for 100+ miles a week. I'm giving gray hairs to someone. haha.<br>
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Continued happy running guys!<br>
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Laura<br>
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<br>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06261508163848946407noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309666217976230745.post-45143748597952005062015-03-27T14:20:00.000-04:002015-03-27T14:20:38.201-04:00Why I Probably Run More Than You Hey Everyone!!<br />
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I am so sorry I have been slacking on my updates! This Boston build up is deliciously exhausting. When I have 30 minutes to spare I'm using telling Siri to wake me up in a few. But seriously, I've never trained so hard or so much in my life.<br />
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They say you really learn about yourself in a marathon. I will extend that to marathon training. Because there are all sorts of fun things you get to deal with along the way! Such as:<br />
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The usual suspects:<br />
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*Fatigue<br />
*Excitement<br />
*An out of control ego<br />
*Quickly beat down by the epic fail training run<br />
*Insatiable appetite<br />
*Irritability<br />
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Then the less obvious suspects:<br />
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*Friction burns, turned into permanent scabs<br />
*2 to 3 showers a day from doubling and sometimes X-training<br />
*Accepting that life for 12 weeks will be in a pony tail<br />
*Doing a double and farting the whole way while waving to your neighbors<br />
*Bloody noses from freezing temps<br />
*Explaining to non runners that running 2-3 hours a day is epic and rewarding!<br />
*Explaining to your child that you can't sit in a folding chair and watch them practice. It hurts!<br />
*No, I'm not trying to lose weight!<br />
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SO WHY?! What is the point? I love to ponder this question and have a million different answers.<br />
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Why have I run 1254 miles since January 1st? My weekly totals are:<br />
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95, 95, 100, 104, 114, 120, 100, 71, 109, 125, 108, 103 (this week) That includes 6 long runs that were 20-24 miles.<br />
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That's more than a lot of men will run and go sub 2:30. Some people will run 40% of that and kick my ass. I'm aware. But it's not my goal to beat them. It's my goal to beat me. It's my goal to push myself till I want to give up and then learn to make that my comfort zone. I'm not training for complacency.<br />
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It's about grinding and pushing the envelope. Sucking it up. Wiping the tears. And doing it again and again.<br />
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Mentally, this kind of training is probably harder than the physical act of moving your body. One day you feel invincible and the next, trashed. Over and over. It's a mental beat down. So you have to believe in yourself and your training. Because odds are you will need to get your shoes back on and run within the next 5 hours.<br />
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I know what I can do. I don't want to train for a 3rd 2:58. I'd like to give a little more this time. I'm no different from the 4 or 5 hour marathoner. I think most of us throw down our best. We don't roll up to a track for 800's and run easy pace. We all try. That's all you can ask for. And at the end of the day or week it puts a smile on our faces.<br />
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It teaches my kids and yours that giving up is not an option. That this is what commitment looks like. That somedays your best will be last weeks worst. And in the end you can check the DONE box feeling accomplished.<br />
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I'm going to cut this off here. But I have some dietary tips, tricks and hopefully not placebos to share on the next post. I don't have a double today so I'll work on that now : )<br />
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As always you guys rock! I couldn't do it without you! Thanks again for your support. T-3w2d to turn this mutha out! See you at Hopkinton!<br />
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Later Taters!!<br />
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Here are some random pics:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0qSbIddkQjI/VRWXmTPl7-I/AAAAAAAADBs/YpAlzEd3Nbs/s1600/IMG_7569.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0qSbIddkQjI/VRWXmTPl7-I/AAAAAAAADBs/YpAlzEd3Nbs/s1600/IMG_7569.JPG" height="400" width="352" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Running out of poses nowadays</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V9aZjVAr4p8/VRWXm804kmI/AAAAAAAADBw/DEX7KdHkEsQ/s1600/IMG_7502.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V9aZjVAr4p8/VRWXm804kmI/AAAAAAAADBw/DEX7KdHkEsQ/s1600/IMG_7502.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A great 10 miler!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2HGF7B_svVI/VRWXpZulmyI/AAAAAAAADCA/iVDQ2k2n1qc/s1600/IMG_7594.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2HGF7B_svVI/VRWXpZulmyI/AAAAAAAADCA/iVDQ2k2n1qc/s1600/IMG_7594.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Props to my LMBT for being 75% of the reason I'm still on the roads</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-epiYlnOllJ4/VRWXwOkEMoI/AAAAAAAADCY/83RdRnoceAw/s1600/IMG_7599.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-epiYlnOllJ4/VRWXwOkEMoI/AAAAAAAADCY/83RdRnoceAw/s1600/IMG_7599.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fashion "situations"</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g79BcoLcuEA/VRWXpLmwW1I/AAAAAAAADB8/DyUEO5Hx-hk/s1600/IMG_7830.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g79BcoLcuEA/VRWXpLmwW1I/AAAAAAAADB8/DyUEO5Hx-hk/s1600/IMG_7830.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">35 degrees in the am. 80 degrees in the pm. Sure!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eGeM5UuuWNg/VRWXse2wsgI/AAAAAAAADCM/4COBCaTq-F8/s1600/IMG_7893.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eGeM5UuuWNg/VRWXse2wsgI/AAAAAAAADCM/4COBCaTq-F8/s1600/IMG_7893.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This has become acceptable...somehow...</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fNBpv2Vq010/VRWX3edzImI/AAAAAAAADCo/blOMECjMnNs/s1600/IMG_7915.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fNBpv2Vq010/VRWX3edzImI/AAAAAAAADCo/blOMECjMnNs/s1600/IMG_7915.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seeing this on my run!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zLcI9dVHwbs/VRWXwIQ8YsI/AAAAAAAADCU/GWiJJwbJEaA/s1600/IMG_8006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zLcI9dVHwbs/VRWXwIQ8YsI/AAAAAAAADCU/GWiJJwbJEaA/s1600/IMG_8006.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That's a happy dance right there!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e8ix3TH1lxw/VRWX3cPbQyI/AAAAAAAADCk/b7SeoiouXKA/s1600/IMG_8011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e8ix3TH1lxw/VRWX3cPbQyI/AAAAAAAADCk/b7SeoiouXKA/s1600/IMG_8011.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What else does one do betw parked cars while celebrating a great day?!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T2JedZFjJrk/VRWX7GkznzI/AAAAAAAADDA/coY3I8LkOEU/s1600/IMG_8063.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T2JedZFjJrk/VRWX7GkznzI/AAAAAAAADDA/coY3I8LkOEU/s1600/IMG_8063.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I would like to thanks my family and pets for supporting me</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HOxNxsLlq_Y/VRWX6iJU3KI/AAAAAAAADC0/X7srHQxWPhY/s1600/IMG_8120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HOxNxsLlq_Y/VRWX6iJU3KI/AAAAAAAADC0/X7srHQxWPhY/s1600/IMG_8120.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And my training partner who I will always look up to</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vv67xyucP2Y/VRWX7N6-KsI/AAAAAAAADC4/ZmBWcwuUgiU/s1600/IMG_8232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vv67xyucP2Y/VRWX7N6-KsI/AAAAAAAADC4/ZmBWcwuUgiU/s1600/IMG_8232.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And the pendulum swings...a good day...</td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06261508163848946407noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309666217976230745.post-51162355391818381702015-02-23T19:30:00.000-05:002015-02-23T19:30:57.182-05:00An epic day of a different type!Hey Runners, Creepers and Loves!<br />
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I'm so stinking proud of myself that I had to share. I know you guys are hard asses like me so you'll understand. Here's my Monday. Keep in mind THIS is NOT normal for me:<br />
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5am woke up<br />
6am kids up<br />
7am carpool<br />
7:30 back in bed<br />
10:00am still sleeping<br />
10:15 came down for a massive calorie intake and back to bed<br />
11:00 watched the Biggie and Tupac documentary on Amazon Prime<br />
12:00 thought about running<br />
1:00 ate more<br />
2:00 got pedicure<br />
3:00 kid stuff (on auto pilot)<br />
5pm thought about running but ate froyo on the couch and laughed<br />
7pm Was gonna run but said Fuck it!<br />
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This was seriously the coolest day ever. I NEVER do this. I've had time to think about it and this is how THAT happened.<br />
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This week was a cut back week. I did 100 miles. But I ran in yak tax, on treadmills, on ice, I stressed out WAY too much. I went bonkers on my long run and actually pulled the plug 16 miles in because I couldn't do the workout in the conditions. My body was beat. My legs ached. I thought I ripped my right ankle off. I was mentally spent.<br />
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I am a perfectionist when it comes to my training. I give 100% to every footstep. However this week I hopped laterally, jumped and slide for 100 miles. I started getting sloppy in traffic. I needed to take a day off. The whole day felt like indigestion. I'm blogging about running so I don't grab my garmin and bolt out of the house. Sigh.<br />
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But I know tomorrow I'll feel fresh and ready to roll. Hell, I may even have a normal BMI, haha.<br />
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I hope your training is going well. Here are some randoms from the week. Thanks for all your awesome comments! Rock on guys!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">17 mile TM tempo with 4x 5k</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sRTqk2Zm2KE/VOvFkywzm8I/AAAAAAAADAc/yv0wixs51pk/s1600/FullSizeRender_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sRTqk2Zm2KE/VOvFkywzm8I/AAAAAAAADAc/yv0wixs51pk/s1600/FullSizeRender_2.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How I really felt after 4x5k</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fun for a day. That's it!</td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06261508163848946407noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309666217976230745.post-56922566998391777092015-02-15T21:25:00.000-05:002015-02-15T22:01:54.643-05:00How I recover off a 400+ mile monthHey Guys!<br />
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I meant to get a recovery post up sooner. But geez this week was crazy. 7 doubles. 120 miles. All workouts nailed. I'm thrilled! Now, I'm starting a cutback week. I'm not complaining either!<br />
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I definitely don't know everything or claim to be an expert in anything. Possibly a tangent expert within a 5 mile radius of my house, possibly. But I have lots of weird rituals that could be better than placebo. Or not, who knows. But this is what I do:<br />
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*I take amino acids 3x a day. Before and after the run, and before bed. This is new this cycle.<br />
*I take Sport Legs before I run and sometimes before bed.<br />
*I drink Udo's Oil before bed.<br />
*I eat 3 Quest bars a day. 1 within 20 mins after each run and 1 at night. 20 grams of protein. No sugar.<br />
*I take Endurox after I run.<br />
*I take Epsom salt baths about twice a week.<br />
* I put various lotions and potions on my legs with arnica, glucosamine etc.<br />
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I have links to all of these products down below.<br />
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That's it for supplements. I eat chicken, nuts, cheese and other high protein food ALL day. My diet doesn't have any refined sugar other than trace amounts. Sugar is inflammation. That's a big no, no! I force food down until I have at least 3,500 calories in me a day.<br />
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Physically, I use roll recovery often and I stretch pretty much all day. I'm always leaning on something and getting a stretch. I also get weekly deep tissue massages.<br />
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And the thing I HATE the most is that I force myself to put my feet up for 30 minutes after my morning run. I always have stuff to do and laying there is not my personality! But I think of it as a gift to my legs. Also, I probably collapse 2 times a week after mileage bumps and need a nap. Again, I don't like feeling "lazy" but hey. Sometimes I'll sleep in my car while my kids are at a Taekwondo class. I can power nap and answer homework questions in my sleep. I just figure a way to make it all happen.<br />
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Because we are 9 weeks from Boston I put a little more thought into my daily activities. You won't see me swimming laps or riding my bike. I wouldn't jump on a trampoline with my kids. Obvious stuff. My goal is to stay healthy. If you said let's go to the mall and walk around a few hours the night before a long run, I'd say hell no! My ass is in the tub soaking at that time!<br />
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This may sound obsessive, but to me it's not. I'm not a college kid. I'm not even young! I'm a 40 year old 98 pound marathon runner with 3 kids. I need to take precautions!<br />
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Here are some random pics as well as my supplements. Thanks for reading! You guys rock! Your support makes me giddy : )<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z_lw6WZNG6M/VOFPknIevTI/AAAAAAAAC-c/0GzoGaD_SLE/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z_lw6WZNG6M/VOFPknIevTI/AAAAAAAAC-c/0GzoGaD_SLE/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Car console food is a must</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Br1Bar2-T_o/VOFPkZvIX3I/AAAAAAAAC-g/tfltkcZl-Js/s1600/IMG_6929.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Br1Bar2-T_o/VOFPkZvIX3I/AAAAAAAAC-g/tfltkcZl-Js/s1600/IMG_6929.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is half my life!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FovV1QMnxxs/VOFPkTWvadI/AAAAAAAAC-Y/ckH6AENqv94/s1600/IMG_6961.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FovV1QMnxxs/VOFPkTWvadI/AAAAAAAAC-Y/ckH6AENqv94/s1600/IMG_6961.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yup, it happens!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Awpa42Aaq0Q/VOFQw6U4skI/AAAAAAAAC-0/HqzCFNhW89A/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Awpa42Aaq0Q/VOFQw6U4skI/AAAAAAAAC-0/HqzCFNhW89A/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1 degree long run!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8incE_IyETY/VOFRAs6l1II/AAAAAAAAC_k/kt8NqD3-ewU/s1600/FullSizeRender-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8incE_IyETY/VOFRAs6l1II/AAAAAAAAC_k/kt8NqD3-ewU/s1600/FullSizeRender-1.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm going to link out these supplements. Also, that's liquid calcium. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-17qBjYaBLFI/VOFQ91zUeoI/AAAAAAAAC_U/XeealV6c-9I/s1600/IMG_6925.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-17qBjYaBLFI/VOFQ91zUeoI/AAAAAAAAC_U/XeealV6c-9I/s1600/IMG_6925.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'll show you crazy!</td></tr>
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<a href="http://udoerasmus.com/products/oil_blend_en.htm" target="_blank">Udo Oil</a><br />
<a href="http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/END002/pacific-health-labs-endurox-excel-60-caplets/" target="_blank">Endurox Excel</a><br />
<a href="https://www.mdplusstore.com/viewitem.asp?idproduct=187" target="_blank">Amino Acids</a><br />
<a href="http://www.questnutrition.com/quest-bars?gclid=CMjj-Zmy5cMCFW0V7AodUjcA8w" target="_blank">Quest Bars</a><br />
<a href="http://www.gnc.com/pwr/product-reviews/TROPICAL-OASIS/p/2188156-Tropical-Oasis-trade-Liquid-Calcium-Magnesium.html" target="_blank">Liquid Calcium</a><br />
<a href="http://www.sportlegs.com/about/welcome.asp" target="_blank">Sport Legs</a><br />
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Some people ask me why I put it all out there. I'm up late after running 20 miles today so you can learn from all the good, bad and ugly I have come across. In the end, it makes me happy to see you do well. More so than myself. Now, I didn't say I'd let you beat me at the finish line, but you know! haha.<br />
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Well, continued happy running guys!!<br />
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Laura<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06261508163848946407noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309666217976230745.post-87003345529932329652015-02-06T20:51:00.000-05:002015-02-06T20:51:19.684-05:00A short rambling touching on my friend: High Mileage<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marathon Training by Sophie, age 10. The kid is smart! We are building our castle so to speak.</td></tr>
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TGIF My Dears!! </div>
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I guess this whole "exercise and have more energy" thing works. Because 8x out of 10 I'm locked and loaded! The other 2 I'm dead as a doornail, semi conscious, and drooling on myself. But hey, that's the fun part too!</div>
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So, for my Boston-ites we are 74 days out. The work is real. The dedication is hot! We are now in too deep to look back. Forget sleeping in on Sunday. Forget no carbs at night. Eat like a maniac! Rest after you rip your legs off. We are part of an army of badasses that will unleash on Hopkinton Mid-April. We worked our asses off to get there. We worked again to prepare. Now, we will let all hell break loose! </div>
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I love that I have my Strava widget on the side so you can see what I'm up to. The last 5 weeks for me have been: 95, 95, 100, 109, 110. I seriously never want this to end. Running twice a day, sometimes for hours at a time changes you. </div>
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It's like Prozac for your temperament! </div>
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*Road rage assholes, don't care. </div>
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*Out of sandwich bags, big deal, use tupperware</div>
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*There is dog crap in the kitchen. Meh, I'll get to it.</div>
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*Oh, my favorite: My home alarm system went off yesterday. Normally, I'd freak. But on a 110 mile week I just got in the car and left. Screw it, just don't steal my Garmin.</div>
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HA!</div>
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So the fire is building. The benefits are being had. All is good at Camp LaBella. </div>
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I hate to sound like a broken record but I have to say THANK YOU to you guys. I don't exist in a bubble. I have made so many awesome friends in the progress. Heidi and Laura, you guys fire my ass up every day! Freaking Joey...freaking Joey. This guy is an inferno that I am happy to be able to run with weekly and enjoy his seemingly endless talent. Both, physically and mentally. You all rock! We roll hard in the most badass of sports. I respect you all. </div>
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I'm going to do a post on supplements and nutrition this weekend. I've REALLY tightened my game and have a few good finds. </div>
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Until then, happy running!!</div>
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Laura </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Got gel?</td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06261508163848946407noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309666217976230745.post-5454201571492317332015-01-21T16:08:00.000-05:002015-01-21T16:08:50.472-05:00Click here to light a fire under your ass!Hey Guys!!<br />
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Boom, Boom, Pow! Here we are my little Boston-ites! 89 days left.<br />
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89 Days of:<br />
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*Adrenaline<br />
*Exhilaration<br />
*Agony<br />
*Defeat<br />
*Triumph<br />
*Focus<br />
*Mental fortitude<br />
*Accomplishment<br />
*Struggle<br />
*Determination<br />
*Courage<br />
*Monotony<br />
*And fire!<br />
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You get it, the good stuff! And on the 89th day we get to party! The struggle and defeat will be gone. We'll have 26.2 miles to celebrate everything we did that got us to the starting line. All the winter chaos, sub freezing temps, ice, darkness. All of that will be gone. We will be left with the machines we have built. The time we put in will be evident.<br />
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That run in the absolute freezing downpour will have prepped you for mile 24. You will beg for more pain because it's all you know. Your fresh body will annihilate any spec of discomfort along the way. You will throw the hammer down hoping for blood. Run to the clock my friends.<br />
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I was running 15 miles today on the Neuse Greenway in Raleigh, NC. I was struggling to keep my pace slower than I wanted. I was kinda pissy. Then I saw this other runner. A man in a yellow vest. I see him often. He yelled out, "I read your blog!" We crossed paths twice. A huge high 5 on the way back that most certainly made my run and day. There is something about the runner high 5 that can't be beat.<br />
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So alas, I'm at my keyboard doing an update : )<br />
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Training has picked up. I am almost happy with where I am. I'll never be totally satisfied. But hey, I'm an overachiever. I'm in the middle of a 100 mile week. The last 2 weeks were 96 and 95. If you guys remember from last year those were my peak weeks. But this year I'm throwing it all in. I plan on keeping this the average. I'm sure a slight cutback week will hit my schedule at some point. However, this is what makes me good. I thrive on the monotony, solitude and daily grind. My legs get it.<br />
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I'm in a good spot for January. If you guys are on <a href="https://www.strava.com/athletes/1614563?utm_source=top-nav" target="_blank">Strava, follow me.</a> I feel like I run too much to list everything here. I try to keep it pretty funny. In fact, I cry laughing thinking of titles for my runs.<br />
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Here are some random post run selfies:<br />
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So ONWARD folks! Keep your party rolling. Thanks for reading.<br />
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Happy Running!<br />
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Laura<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06261508163848946407noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309666217976230745.post-91633917291368940362015-01-09T15:28:00.001-05:002015-01-09T15:28:36.917-05:00Here's what's up!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hey guys!<br />
<br />
There are only 2 reasons I slack on my blog.<br />
<br />
1. My leg is broken<br />
<br />
or<br />
<br />
2. I'm running 95+ miles a week<br />
<br />
And survey says!: Number 2!!! I'm back to my favorite part of marathon training. I think 90-105 mile weeks are by far my favorite. This is my first 95 mile week in a long time. I feel good. I'm focused and happy. I can get cranky in an instant if I'm hungry. But I have a Quest Bar for that. So, overall it's all good.<br />
<br />
So, ya...The Houston Marathon is out. I was excited to do a January race. I knew the short build up would have to be flawless. However, in the end I became stressed. I got the flu. Missed a long run. Had sick family. Ice killed 2 of my tempo runs. All the little things added up and I said HELL NO! I'm not going out to do a personal worst. Nope.<br />
<br />
But during the interim I got a great base going. So now it's full throttle till Boston! Depending on my fitness I hope to get 1-2 races before then.<br />
<br />
Oh! You guys have to check this out! I'm part of a book about womens running. A motivational, get your ass up and go do a double type of book. One that makes me look like a wuss. The women featured are immensely hard core in so many ways. It will definitely get you going. What an honor. I'm still weirded out seeing myself in a book. You get to read about all my tasty fails that I'll never tell you about otherwise. haha.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" Link here" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Li3w5P_xBbA/VLAyFzCpynI/AAAAAAAAC6g/UMLEGMLPSY8/s1600/10353557_10152967277407741_9107430868364617413_n.jpg" height="320" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="240" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/listing/2671230684391?r=1&kpid=2671230684391&cm_mmc=GooglePLA-_-Book_15To24-_-Q000000633-_-2671230684391" target="_blank">It's available at Barnes and Noble and Amazon</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RZDbZaSexKU/VLAyFvBG62I/AAAAAAAAC6c/lLXo5mo3ODM/s1600/10891932_10152967278727741_2533100132210915086_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RZDbZaSexKU/VLAyFvBG62I/AAAAAAAAC6c/lLXo5mo3ODM/s1600/10891932_10152967278727741_2533100132210915086_n.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Too much! I'm chapter 11.</td></tr>
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So, not much else going on. My eye is on the prize! Boston 2015 on deck and ready to burn! Aside from an absolutely gut wrenching, vomit inducing, lay it all out PR, my side goals are:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
1. To break the top 100 females. For the last 2 years I've been like 110ish. The numbers seem to always change. Thanks Jeptoo.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
2. Top 10 Age Group. I think I've been 11th/12th for the last 2 years. aka 1st and 2nd fail. haha</div>
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<br /></div>
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I think I'll add some run pictures here and then go eat some garlic naan. Yum!</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EDlx7YB2od0/VLAyGCYh9jI/AAAAAAAAC6k/atXwj-E4gsM/s1600/10926228_10152965899692741_4921720280253147249_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EDlx7YB2od0/VLAyGCYh9jI/AAAAAAAAC6k/atXwj-E4gsM/s1600/10926228_10152965899692741_4921720280253147249_n.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I run to this location just for this view. Love</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-15bvKWJzENk/VLAyGN8gR5I/AAAAAAAAC6o/EcrqtwiKkeo/s1600/10906247_10152973578967741_1975886456696809365_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-15bvKWJzENk/VLAyGN8gR5I/AAAAAAAAC6o/EcrqtwiKkeo/s1600/10906247_10152973578967741_1975886456696809365_n.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">16 degrees. Yikes</td></tr>
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<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EQIlgwJPqt0/VLA3HsgsoXI/AAAAAAAAC7o/nCRxlWxi9YI/s1600/10399426_10152953483117741_9160829701567414571_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EQIlgwJPqt0/VLA3HsgsoXI/AAAAAAAAC7o/nCRxlWxi9YI/s1600/10399426_10152953483117741_9160829701567414571_n.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The majority of my miles on the white line.</td></tr>
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I hope you guys are running well. Let me know what's going on. Throw down a comment. I miss you guys xo</div>
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Laters Taters!! </div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
Laura</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06261508163848946407noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309666217976230745.post-12128840517357934892014-12-25T18:34:00.002-05:002014-12-25T18:34:28.781-05:00Merry Christmas!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Merry Christmas!!!</span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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Hey Guys! Just checking in to send some holiday cheer your way! I hope you are enjoying your time with your friends and family. Also, I hope you didn't drink too much egg nog resulting in taking today off and laying on the couch : ) </div>
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Merry Christmas and Happy New Year Friends!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06261508163848946407noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309666217976230745.post-1669567219063739462014-12-13T18:10:00.000-05:002014-12-13T18:10:09.137-05:00Week in reviewHey Guys!!<br />
<br />
Happy Sunday Eve! Let the Badassery build tonight and roll out in the morning! My long run has been on Saturday for a while now but there is still the magic of Sunday that lights a fire up under my feet.<br />
<br />
So I'm gunning for pre Boston marathon. YOLO, I can do 2, screw it. I can't deal with this once a year marathon thing. I'm working on some mileage now. Turn over. Finding love with my marathon pace. The usual. That's what makes me happy!<br />
<br />
Here is this week:<br />
<br />
Monday: Gym, core, glutes, arms. No running.<br />
<br />
Tuesday: 11 miles. Very windy. Hill repeats on mile 11. 7:25 pace avg<br />
<br />
Wednesday: 21 miles total. 15 with 10 miles at 6:40 pace. A short 6 mile double also in the am. 2 at 6:40 pace. 20mph winds plus gusts. I got the MP I wanted. But I would have liked 6:30's. I won't mention the sheets of ice that had me body slamming into bridges. It was a stressful morning!<br />
<br />
Thursday: 12 miles in Umstead. 800 feet. 7:37 pace. A grind given yesterday!<br />
<br />
Friday: 5 easy 7:45 pace<br />
<br />
Saturday: 21 at 7:30 pace. Last mile sub 7.<br />
<br />
Sunday: Tomorrow will be about 13-14 with lots of hill repeats.<br />
<br />
Total:<br />
85 miles in 6 days<br />
<br />
<br />
Here's some random photos from this week:<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-962x4cXylAk/VIzEi0UskbI/AAAAAAAAC4w/Cl5MvBbA_FI/s1600/FullSizeRender-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-962x4cXylAk/VIzEi0UskbI/AAAAAAAAC4w/Cl5MvBbA_FI/s1600/FullSizeRender-6.jpg" height="400" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Proud of my soft surface 18 miler last week</td></tr>
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<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QYENm0ABhXY/VIzEjar04BI/AAAAAAAAC40/SzmzC2wuyvw/s1600/FullSizeRender-7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QYENm0ABhXY/VIzEjar04BI/AAAAAAAAC40/SzmzC2wuyvw/s1600/FullSizeRender-7.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A great Umstead Run!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PCSqjXnJLRc/VIzEkFNF6WI/AAAAAAAAC5A/Cw_qmAZhQK8/s1600/IMG_5201.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PCSqjXnJLRc/VIzEkFNF6WI/AAAAAAAAC5A/Cw_qmAZhQK8/s1600/IMG_5201.PNG" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm standing on there for a reason. But I can't remember. Good run?</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rT3SlKCkD0k/VIzEkpauhoI/AAAAAAAAC5E/MR9-BUEwtbE/s1600/IMG_5323.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rT3SlKCkD0k/VIzEkpauhoI/AAAAAAAAC5E/MR9-BUEwtbE/s1600/IMG_5323.JPG" height="400" width="317" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Always!</td></tr>
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That's about it. I hope your running is going well! Nothing major over here, YET!! Party on guys!!<br />
<br />
LauraAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06261508163848946407noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309666217976230745.post-23564268895937324482014-12-02T17:31:00.000-05:002014-12-02T17:55:19.516-05:00Almost Fast and Furious?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
Hey There My Lovely Badasses!<br />
<br />
By clicking on this blog I know a few things about you for sure. Perhaps:<br />
<br />
1. You are equally or more badass than me. Ding ding ding!<br />
<br />
2. You've been following this blog for the last 4 years and are waiting for me to finally drop a sub 2:55 and shut up about it.<br />
<br />
3. You enjoy my enthusiasm over the various core exercises I've done throughout the years.<br />
<br />
4. You really don't like me. You read about me and then talk about me on the ATT. I have peeps everywhere girls! wink wink.<br />
<br />
5. You want the Lady Gaga pictures back on the side bar.<br />
<br />
Haha. So I feel that I'm getting away from listing the meat and potatoes of my training. I read your training like it's first chapter of Fight Club. I can't blink. I love to see the dirty details of your running. So I'm going to list mine again. Which segues into an approaching dilemma. Let me explain.<br />
<br />
Here's the last 2 weeks of my training:<br />
<br />
Monday 11/17: Off<br />
Tuesday 11/18: 10 miles: 7:03 pace. Wind<br />
Wednesday 11/19: 13 miles. 7:02 pace. 19 degrees and wind.<br />
Thursday 11/20: 12.5 miles easy 7:23 pace<br />
Friday 11/21: 5 miles super easy 7:42 pace<br />
Saturday11/22: 16 miles. 7:32 pace. Weather bonk. sub 20 degrees. shorts. a bad run.<br />
Sunday11/23: 13 miles with hill repeats in the middle. 7:13 avg.<br />
TOTAL: 70 miles<br />
<br />
Monday 11/24: Off<br />
Tuesday 11/25: am run: 10miles at 6:45 pace. 4 hours later: 6 miles @ 6:53 pace<br />
Wednesday 11/26: 10 miles at 7:47 pace. Pouring freezing rain.<br />
Thursday 11/27: 5 miles at 7:49 pace<br />
Friday 11/28: 18 miles at 7:03 pace. a 2 minute negative split on the way back to sub marathon pace.<br />
Saturday 11/29: 10 miles with hill repeats in the middle. 7:35 pace<br />
Sunday 11/30: 12 miles at 7:19 pace on hills<br />
TOTAL 71 miles<br />
<br />
It's good stuff. Personally, I know my running ignites once I hit 80-85 a week. I think I solid 8-10 weeks is all I need for a 2:55. I think I'll burn out slowly after that. So, my dilemma is do I:<br />
<br />
A. Chill out and build for Boston 2015<br />
<br />
or<br />
<br />
B. Hop on the sub 2:55 train and hammer my pending PR in February?<br />
<br />
I'm ready to work! I was ripped off by a late summer injury so I'm growing impatient. I kind of want to "wait and see" how the next few weeks go. However, I know when I start ripping off sub 7 pace for 20-22 milers that the peak in NEAR! It's such a freaking awesome problem. I'm really fortunate.<br />
<br />
So, that's kinda where I am. I don't really know how to chill so I'm kinda learning towards a pre Boston marathon. I'll still do Boston. But, not as a goal race.<br />
<br />
I hope you guys are doing well and enjoying the cooler temps!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--rAEOD-Y0LQ/VH478RJZljI/AAAAAAAAC4c/iespHSbXxSY/s1600/IMG_5136.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--rAEOD-Y0LQ/VH478RJZljI/AAAAAAAAC4c/iespHSbXxSY/s1600/IMG_5136.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I have to give props to <a href="http://boomrunning.com/" target="_blank">BOOM RUNNING</a> for the shirt. They have killer old school tops and tanks. This pic was post a 40 mile weekend. BOOM!<br />
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Thanks for reading!<br />
<div>
Laura<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06261508163848946407noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309666217976230745.post-60682647465197953462014-11-19T16:46:00.000-05:002014-12-02T17:31:52.514-05:00Don't be a Candy Ass!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zhNQ6o33Yt0/VG0MyGJt28I/AAAAAAAAC3M/XP3tiF9yevc/s1600/FullSizeRender%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zhNQ6o33Yt0/VG0MyGJt28I/AAAAAAAAC3M/XP3tiF9yevc/s1600/FullSizeRender%2Bcopy.jpg" height="257" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Hey Guys!<br />
<br />
I swear I'm not in a bad mood! I'm actually happy! But I'm seeing a trend in the running community that I feel I need to talk about. I'm gonna throw some more of you under the bus in the hopes that you'll give my way a shot. But in the end, do what works for you.<br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: blue;">Topic: </span>Winter Running</b><br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue;"><b>Common Complaint</b></span>: <b>It's cold</b><br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue;"><b>A common resolution</b></span>: <b>Run later, especially on the weekends, especially on the long run.</b><br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: blue;">My resolution</span></b>: <b>Don't be a candy ass, fair weather, light weight, weak sauce, undisciplined runner showing no control. Get out there!</b><br />
<br />
WHY I say this:<br />
<br />
I know I sound like a bitch. But please understand that my point is to help you have a stronger mental edge. I understand we all have our own schedules and sometimes a run later on in the day is mentally tough. You rock! X out of this post and go run a double. Good job!<br />
<br />
But I'm more concerned with those who *could* run at a difficult time but don't because:<br />
<br />
*it is hard<br />
*it is inconvenient<br />
*it is not within their comfort zone.<br />
*their body doesn't function in the cold like it used to. (see yesterday's post about being old)<br />
*they don't *have to*<br />
<br />
I think you are losing at least 50% of your mental edge by succumbing to the gas logs and fuzzy slippers. Some of you are thinking, "Oh Laura, screw you. Miles are miles." In agree with you. Miles are miles. But the level of mental strife you need to get up 5am and run in freezing temperatures, sometimes in the dark teaches you something you won't get by sleeping in.<br />
<br />
I think as runners we can't ignore the obvious need for discipline and self control. But furthermore, we need to be uncomfortable and struggle some. We need to feel that can go outside of our comfort zone and still do work. The feeling of accomplishment is tenfold. I say this based on what you guys tell me.<br />
<br />
I see evidence of this on my Facebook every morning. Ava, Dawn, John, Joey, Brad, Amy, Bridget, Kara, Michelle, Eric, Megan and David etc etc...All these people make it happen. Kids, multiple jobs, 20 degrees...it doesn't matter. They want it. I see the joy in there posts. They accomplished something. Day in, day out, they work hard. They make it happen. This gives them confidence. They know that under the worst conditions they can do it.<br />
<br />
So when race day comes around and it's a later gun time these type of people aren't sweating it. The race is a gift. A celebration. A statement of their hard work. Everyday they did what most people won't. They made a choice to accept the suck and belittle it.<br />
<br />
In the marathon and with most distances we need to get comfortable at being uncomfortable. It's the nature of our sport. I think getting your ass up for a long run at the crack of dawn in sub freezing conditions is a really good way to feel uncomfortable! But the feeling after is extraordinary.<br />
<br />
So I guess my point is to give it a shot. See how you feel with an earlier alarm. I can guarantee you won't say it sucked. This rant is mostly for running uncomfortable in the winter but also includes all you lunch break runners, night time-post kid bedtime runners....you get it. And I bet it shows in your attitude and performance during a race.<br />
<br />
I say this all with love. Don't nitpick me and comment with extraordinary situations and say I'm being mean. lol. Take the general vibe and go get your suffering on!<br />
<br />
Thanks for listening!<br />
Laura XO<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06261508163848946407noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309666217976230745.post-79714616198610384902014-11-17T12:20:00.001-05:002014-11-17T15:24:35.627-05:00I don't care if you're old! Work it!Happy Monday Guys!!<br />
<br />
I have made so much progress lately! I am so fortunate to be back on the roads. I'm almost back to normal. It's been so much work but so much fun too. However, I have a side note, borderline tangent to throw out there really quickly.<br />
<br />
I have my running and workouts on FB and some running apps. Most people get pumped and enjoy my enthusiasm. But, there is a small cohort of people that seem to think they are <span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>exempt from health and fitness</b></span>. I hate to pinpoint any certain group, but I'm gonna do it. My Peeps in the 50-65+ age group that are <span style="color: red;"><b>not active</b></span>. Most of my friends in that age group are breaking records in whatever discipline. You rock! But I'm talking about those who aren't active. You know who you are! You're kicked up by the fire reading this.<br />
<br />
I sometimes hear people say:<br />
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"Laura, I love that you run so much and are in good shape, but I'm 65 and a grandma. I can't do what you do."<br />
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"Laura, my knees are bad. I've had so many surgeries."<br />
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"Laura, I'm too old to change."<br />
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AU CONTRAIRE MON FRERE! Hell, I'm old too. I don't subscribe to that theory, at all.<br />
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Last time I checked, you had a butt and 2 working legs. You have to sit on that butt everyday. You have to walk with those legs. So why not make them the BEST they can be? I'm not saying go sub 3 in the marathon.<br />
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I especially hear the more tenured peeps dissing my glute work. The women tell me to put on more clothes and the men tend to recite how great they once were. You know who you are! I always say: Are you kidding me?! If your butt is strong you'll sit up straighter, improve your posture, your hips will be happier. You'll feel better. That's going to reflect on everything in your life. You might think twice about that 2nd serving of casserole too. Just saying.<br />
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There's probably no reason why you can't put forth a little effort. Even if it's a walk. Who cares! Get your blood moving. Don't curl up like you're on death's doorstep. I promise you'll feel so much better!<br />
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If you need help with your diet or exercise you can always ask me or I can lead you in the right direction.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-llDCN97naFU/VGosZ2fhO8I/AAAAAAAAC20/e9s3xycCY8k/s1600/newsam2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-llDCN97naFU/VGosZ2fhO8I/AAAAAAAAC20/e9s3xycCY8k/s1600/newsam2.jpg" height="255" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sam here is 70 years old.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w8MTEN9nwGc/VGosZ2tU9eI/AAAAAAAAC24/wsf6fibtfTY/s1600/newsam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w8MTEN9nwGc/VGosZ2tU9eI/AAAAAAAAC24/wsf6fibtfTY/s1600/newsam.jpg" height="234" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ernestine is 73. She didn't start working out until she was 53. She runs marathons now.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">NO EXCUSES!!!</span></div>
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Thanks for listening. I hope you get out there! </div>
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XO Laura</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06261508163848946407noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309666217976230745.post-44738511977209601662014-11-02T17:15:00.002-05:002014-11-02T17:15:24.005-05:00Attitude!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy Sunday My Dears!<br />
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Another solid week of comeback in the books! Sometimes I get so focused on the physical aspect of running that the big picture gets hazy. I'll research exercises to death. I'll critique my form and cadence mid run. I'll pour over the data. Nitpicking everything. While I love this aspect of running, it also detracts from what I think is my stronger asset: my attitude.<br />
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I never really thought about my attitude. I've been more concerned with how big my butt is. But people always say to me that they wish they had my attitude. Huh?<br />
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For example, I was at the gym one day with my broken ass leg a few weeks ago. I was doing some exercises and one of the gym employees asked me how I was doing. I said that my leg was fractured but almost better. I explained that my running would take off soon and I could finally get back to sub 2:55 training. I said that I missed 100 mile weeks. I said this in a very matter of fact tone with a borderline psycho stare. I probably didn't blink. Like I was reading a book. He goes, "Wow". Your leg is broken, but you say that with such confidence. I blushed. I was just explaining the facts. This was how my winter was going to progress. I felt like I got his wheels turning. And it made me think about myself.<br />
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I am my own biggest cheerleader. If not me, who? I don't really want anyone else. Of course, I love the high 5's, support and camaraderie that goes with this sport. But I also love that I can wake up 365 days a year and tie my shoes and know that it is going to be a good day. Sure, I suck and fail too. But that doesn't define me. It's ok to have a bad run. Big deal. Move on.<br />
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I wish I could force the self cheerleader concept on others. It takes away to need for praise. The stress of what others think. Say, fuck it. I am going to do X and it will get done. Make a plan and go. I see so much self doubt, especially in NYC today. It hurts. I feel that with a better attitude and a little self confidence so many people would enjoy this sport and life a little more.<br />
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Earlier in the week I heard Kara Goucher say that she knows she cannot win NYC. I was crushed. You can't say that and toe the line and expect a miracle. It doesn't work that way. I wanted to shake her and remind her of how great she is. But it wouldn't matter. It has to come from within.<br />
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I guess the point of my ramble is to nudge anyone who is on the fence. Say FUCK IT, I've got this! Run like you're an animal. If that animal runs 13 pace then you own that 13 pace and perfect it. You'll love the results. No diet or intervals needed. Just your mind.<br />
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I care about you guys and want you to do well. If you need a pre-race pep talk I'm your girl, just holla : )<br />
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Happy Running!!<br />
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Laura<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Don't ask. Run gone too long, haha</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">THIS</td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06261508163848946407noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309666217976230745.post-76020333037112656972014-10-25T12:43:00.000-04:002014-10-25T12:43:36.134-04:00How my returning to running is like a Urinary Tract Infection.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GF1nBohdO90/VEvSxxYcQsI/AAAAAAAAC0U/pea74pAI4aw/s1600/tunedFullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GF1nBohdO90/VEvSxxYcQsI/AAAAAAAAC0U/pea74pAI4aw/s1600/tunedFullSizeRender.jpg" height="400" width="363" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I promise!</td></tr>
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Hey Everyone!<br />
<br />
I was on a double today and the perfect analogy dawned on me. I have no idea where I come up with this stuff. I'm going to assume you've had a UTI at some point in your life. Or have heard about them. They remind me of how my return to running has been.<br />
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Here's what the medical peeps have to say about UTI' symptoms:<br />
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<li class="_AXc" style="border: 0px; line-height: 1.2; list-style: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #222222;">A persistent need to urinate,</span><span style="color: red;"><b>(run)</b></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"> even after you've just gone.</span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: red;"><b>(ran)</b></span></span></li>
<li class="_AXc" style="border: 0px; line-height: 1.2; list-style: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;">Upon trying to urinate frequently<span style="color: red;"><b> (run doubles)</b></span>, very little urine, <span style="color: red;"><b>(speed)</b></span> if any comes out.</li>
<li class="_AXc" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; line-height: 1.2; list-style: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><span style="color: #222222;">General fatigue. </span><span style="color: red;"><b>(from pretending you have your old fitness)</b></span></li>
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<li class="_AXc" style="border: 0px; line-height: 1.2; list-style: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><span style="color: #222222;">A potent, bad smell to the urine. </span><span style="color: red;"><b>(This one is literal. Because we all hate water)</b></span></li>
<li class="_AXc" style="border: 0px; color: #222222; line-height: 1.2; list-style: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #222222;">Nausea. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red;"><b>(from eating too much before a double)</b></span></li>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">YES!! Running is like a UTI! I would say this applies to most runners when they come off an injury and return to running. But for me this is life. I love to run. I cannot get enough of it. I hate water. And yes, doubles always suck! But I want to run again!! And FASTER!</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">I'm not even going to try and segue this into another topic! I hope you all have a great weekend!!</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">Laura</span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06261508163848946407noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309666217976230745.post-1312637893406763432014-10-20T20:13:00.003-04:002014-10-20T22:45:58.643-04:003 Tips that will get you on your way to a rocking core!Hey Everyone!<br />
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People are always asking me how I stay motivated to do core work. It seems like we all have the same dilemma. We hate to commit to getting on the floor and struggling. Watching our gut pulsate and quiver for what seems like no reward. I mean, that's core in a nutshell.<br />
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BUT!! That's just the beginning! Then it gets easier. You will become stronger. You will feel a 2, 4 and 6 pack evolve. Then the addiction begins! But to get you to the addiction stage I have <b><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">3</span></b> <b><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">key tips</span></b> that are guaranteed to get you on your way:<br />
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1. You <span style="color: red;"><b>MUST</b></span> do core when you wake up. Do it while the house is quiet. While your coffee is brewing. It must be peaceful. Make it part of your waking routine. I know I've expounded this tip before but it's so important.<br />
*DON'T say you'll do it at night. You won't. Guaranteed. Besides, core with a full day of food in your belly is uncomfortable. You won't keep it up.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TcFaozb_kes/VEWizO78kcI/AAAAAAAACz0/elqo_EPBvJ8/s1600/IMG_3837.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TcFaozb_kes/VEWizO78kcI/AAAAAAAACz0/elqo_EPBvJ8/s1600/IMG_3837.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
2. Treat yourself like a 5 year old. Your job is to do about 20 minutes of core a few times per week. So when you start turning into a pissy pants and making excuses tell yourself this:<br />
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*I will get on the floor to do core. I will stay there for 20 minutes. If I don't do core I have to sit there. Trust me, you'll do some crunches!<br />
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(I use the same logic at the gym. Sometimes I sit in my car for 10 minutes and I don't want to go in. I always force myself inside and say in 3rd person to myself, "Sit there and pout if you must, but you're staying there for X amount of time.")<br />
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I have never sat on the floor and refused core nor pouted on a bench at the gym. Do it!<br />
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3. Do leg lifts to make you humble. They are horribly difficult. You'll make ugly faces. You'll fart. You'll feel like a piece of shit. BUT with time they become so much easier. Almost like walking. You'll have such an appreciation for your new fitness you won't let it go.<br />
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I really think you guys should try these tips. I know you're not that defiant! You just need a little nudge! <br />
I really think the Core VS Timeout like a 5 year old method will help. Self discipline!! You guys have got it!!<br />
<br />
Laura<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X2EJfa6LGQA/VEWiyD9go1I/AAAAAAAACzw/CxunAiYGtAw/s1600/FullSizeRender-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X2EJfa6LGQA/VEWiyD9go1I/AAAAAAAACzw/CxunAiYGtAw/s1600/FullSizeRender-1.jpg" height="366" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I hate core pics! But it's only fair. This is a core post. This was yesterday if you're keeping up with my workouts…</td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06261508163848946407noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7309666217976230745.post-11521491525885668992014-10-19T16:24:00.000-04:002014-10-19T16:38:06.725-04:00Nothing but CORE!Hey Guys!!<br />
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Happy Sunday! I hope you got your long run in. I did my longest long run post injury: 1 hour 15 mins. I almost got 11 miles. But not quite. I went to the beach for some flat, easy running, but instead I was nailed by the beach winds. But the views in NC are gorgeous!<br />
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I used to post my core updates weekly. I quit because I kept doing the same stuff and getting the same results. During my "time off" from running I changed things up a bit. I feel soooo much stronger on the run. Between the glutes, core, abs, hamstrings, quads…it's all adding up.<br />
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So I wanted to post my core workout so you guys could maybe copy and feel like a bulldog on the run too! If you're a female in my age group, please disregard. haha<br />
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I try to vary it daily but the reps are the same.<br />
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*200-400 stability ball crunches<br />
*50-100 leg lifts. I lay on a bench and keep my legs straight and then boost my feet in the air at the top.<br />
*50 Roman chairs or increase leg lifts on the floor if you're at home.<br />
*100 hip thrusts. These actually are core terrorizers! Stability kicks in. I'm using a 60lb barbell with these now. I'll do an 80lb for the last 10 reps.<br />
or<br />
*Instead of hip thrusts I'll sometimes do lots of single leg glute bridges with a 10lb plate on my hips.<br />
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This takes no time at all. You'll feel stronger and run with better form.<br />
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I have to give a shout out to diet here. You've gotta eat the protein. Your muscles won't give a shit unless they are fed correctly. If you do all this and don't eat right it's tantamount to throwing a piece of Bruschetta in a fish tank. A WASTE OF TIME. And turns everything else to shit. The muscles will say buh-bye. I eat 100 grams a day. Just throwing that out there. FEED YOUR BEAST!<br />
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Here are some pics:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3rNGVZfJbiU/VEQbJ05ovlI/AAAAAAAACzg/spSqBKuNXnM/s1600/IMG_3830.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3rNGVZfJbiU/VEQbJ05ovlI/AAAAAAAACzg/spSqBKuNXnM/s1600/IMG_3830.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 1 of my long run.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JvqLAuhxoa0/VEQZKpQAusI/AAAAAAAACyk/nfvyLzzaGy0/s1600/IMG_3806.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JvqLAuhxoa0/VEQZKpQAusI/AAAAAAAACyk/nfvyLzzaGy0/s1600/IMG_3806.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Single leg glute bridge. I have done 1000's of these. LOVE!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oG0vS4lBvlM/VEQZSf1U7_I/AAAAAAAACzI/141vI69SfTk/s1600/IMG_3897.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oG0vS4lBvlM/VEQZSf1U7_I/AAAAAAAACzI/141vI69SfTk/s1600/IMG_3897.PNG" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Post long run. Probably the strongest core to date. By feel not look!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ix8AXvFKQ_U/VEQZOJWGWTI/AAAAAAAACys/M6g-T34IEYE/s1600/IMG_3838.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ix8AXvFKQ_U/VEQZOJWGWTI/AAAAAAAACys/M6g-T34IEYE/s1600/IMG_3838.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Post long run sun</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RE_Cik8WCV0/VEQZSET8DDI/AAAAAAAACzE/i_vHg5-3m50/s1600/IMG_3857.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RE_Cik8WCV0/VEQZSET8DDI/AAAAAAAACzE/i_vHg5-3m50/s1600/IMG_3857.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Does this ever get old? NO!</td></tr>
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I'm still working on getting photos of my other exercises. It's so much easier to understand with a photo. I'm kinda liking the beach venue. Maybe I'll drive back and "do it for my blog followers." Such torture! You guys rock!<br />
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Thanks for reading!<br />
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Laura<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06261508163848946407noreply@blogger.com6