A big change is coming to my little family. After 13 years in our “starter” home we are planning a move. Naturally, because we are us, we’ve actually been talking about this move for years. Seriously, years.
Last summer my parents sold my childhood home (how DARE they?) and took up permanent residence down in sunny Florida (yep, that’s how they dared). However, before doing so they mentioned that they’d really love to snowbird with us, will miss our kids (maybe us too, I suppose), ectera, on and on and so forth… and it lit the fire under our butts. We took months prepping our home for sale.
Our sweet, cute, little home.
It’s where we came home to after our wedding. And had our first dog. And a few years later, brought our first baby home.
It’s where we’ve had many first days of school.
And an almost equal amount of last days of school.
I’ve learned how to cook here, in a heinous kitchen. And become an even better cook in a way better kitchen.
We learned about the trials and tribulations of home ownership in this home. We made questionable decorating choices (like painting our bedroom bright blue, for example) and then slightly better decorating choices along the way.
Our older son became a big brother in this house with the addition of our youngest son.
The boys became best friends here.
In this home I ran my first ever mile on my treadmill. Like, EVER. And many subsequent miles since.
I’ve been blessed by the amount of friends that have come to visit over the years and snuggle with me on my couch, whether it be for life celebrations, races they are running in the area, or just hanging out and going to the drive-in movies together.
We’ve had a lot of fun here. Some sad memories too, but mostly happy ones, filled with a lot of joy.
It’s been good to us these past 13 years. And change is hard. But we accepted an offer on our home after it had been on the market for just 2 weeks; there are new people who will live here in a few months and I hope it’s just as wonderful and memory-making for them.
We’re on the search for our new home at the moment and while it’s daunting, I’m remaining fairly zen about the entire process. I know that wherever we land it will be good, because we will be together.
What big moves have you made recently? How do you tap into your moment of zen?
I was recently thinking that often I find myself blogging about events in my life when I’m in the thick of them. I mean it makes sense to cover the down and dirty, the nitty gritty things. Like the dreaded plantar fascittis, for example. I’ve dealt with it twice since we started this blog three years ago.
This is my unimpressed face.
While I’m hurting and doing things to make the hurt better, you get to hear about that dang ligament so much I’m sure you feel sympathy pain.
I lament those first steps in the morning, rolling my foot on a golf ball, rolling my foot on a frozen water bottle, and most importantly, not being able to do what I want to do when it comes to running!
(Some might consider walking more important but you know… not me.)
Anyway, I talk, talk, talk about the pain and then it finally subsides… I never really mention it again. But for something that’s such a big part of my life and affects not just me but so many people, I feel like I need to write a little follow up.
So, a quick recap… this last bout of PF started during a training run for last year’s Broad Street run and lasted throughout the summer before I decided that ENOUGH WAS ENOUGH. I put my foot down (see what I did there?); I wasn’t going to deal with it’s shenanigans any longer. I had training runs and races to do, PRs to hit, and I’d be damned if I was going to let a pesky ligament get in the way of my goals.
After three and a half months of just waiting for it to get better on its own (it did not), I started going to the chiropractor for treatments.
At first it was a few times a week, then weekly, then bi-weekly and now it’s monthly. There was a rest from running, Aleve to reduce the inflammation, and lots of tweaking and prodding to figure out what needed to be fixed.
Now it’s a monthly maintenance visit, to make sure I’m aligned (yep, like a car) and my body is working the way it’s supposed to. Each visit starts with about 15 minutes of intense physiotherapy.
When I first started going there, at times I thought that I wasn’t going to make it out of that room. The therapists actually complimented my pain tolerance but maybe I just wasn’t vocal enough because I promise you, it hurt! You put up with the pain if you know it’s going to be fixed in the long run. At least, I do.
I don’t think the therapists have changed the intensity but my foot has become more malleable, more able to handle the manipulations.
Yes, Wesley. Yes.
After my visit with the therapist, I get adjusted by the chiropractor. I always give him a rundown of what runs I’ve been doing, my training (we train with the same personal trainer), and all the other fun in my life.
The once a month visits keep me fairly loosey goosey and I’ve been feeling really good for the past 4-5 months with minimal amounts of plantar fascia pain. Which is exactly what we want!
I’m going to continue with adjustments because the less injuries for me, the happier I am. And the happier I am, the happier everyone around me can be. See how that works?
My goal from here on out is to consistently visit the chiropractor each month and be steadfast with my training. I know that I can’t always be 100% all the time but if I can do things to assist in remaining uninjured, I’m going to do them!
There you go, folks, that’s the scoop. Foot pain is much better, training runs are going very well, and I’m expecting good things to come during my spring races!
Have you ever dealt with plantar fasciitis? What did you do to relieve the pain? Have you visited a chiropractor to help? What races are you training for?
That’s one of my trainer’s favorite sayings and while I don’t go around saying it all the time, I can certainly relate.
I am my own biggest fan.
I have to be! When I put myself first and take care of my own needs, I’m a more pleasant person to be around. I’m more motivated, happier, and I know that I can accomplish what I set out to do.
Which is why while I am my own biggest fan, I am ALSO the biggest Momentum Jewelryfan!
Oh yes, I love me some Momentum Jewelry and have ever since I received my first Motivation Wrap several years ago.
I think it’s safe to say that I’ve picked up quite a few more along the way.
I wear these daily – during training runs, sessions with the aforementioned personal trainer, races; any day of the week that ends with -y!
The Motivation Wraps depend in what situation I’m in and what message I need that particular day, while my Foot Note and Necklace are pretty much standard every day wear.
Now while I love me some me, I also love me some YOU. One of the things that is so great about Momentum Jewelry is that while you’re inspiring yourself, you can also inspiring others. These pieces are conversation starters, as well as wonderful gifts to pass along to friends. Just ask my fellow blogger cohorts, they’ve all been privy to my obsession.
Which leads me to the next big thing… their #sharetheSPARK campaign! For the next two months selected Momentum Jewelry Ambassadors will be sharing these brand spanking new designs with people who need a little extra spark.
you got this! and NEVER GIVE UP
I am so looking forward to sharing these with people I think might need a boost and also following along with the hashtag on social media. It’s going to be incredible!
Oh, I did mention a giveaway, didn’t I? I’m going to hang on to the #spreadtheSPARK wraps for now… however, I did a little Momentum shopping recently and picked up these Foot Notes. We are actually in our blogaversary month here at Scoot a Doot and for blogaversaries, you love on the people who love on you!
SHUT UP LEGS! and YES! you can
One lucky winner will be able to rock these adorable Foot Notes. The giveaway will be running from today until Friday, 2/19 and I’ll be emailing the winner, as well as posting on our Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. If I do not hear back within a 24 hour time frame, a new winner will be chosen.
We’ve got a favorite book in the Daniel household. It’s called Dragons Love Tacos. Have you heard of it? Well, there are dragons (obviously) and they L-O-V-E tacos (again with the obvious – I guess that’s what you get when you’re reading children’s books). There are taco parties, which, I would be all for attending because quite honestly, I LOVE TACOS TOO.
(Just not spicy salsa. Spoiler: Dragons do not like spicy salsa.)
Anyway, the point is, we Daniels are fans of tacos. And books. And books about tacos.
Naturally, this taco recipe is a big hit here. Now, in the interest of full disclosure, I didn’t actually prepare this recipe. My darling husband was the taco chef; I was busy painting dots on the floor of our son’s 1st grade hallway.
Yes, while I was getting my paint on, Jay was pitching in and making us this YUMMY dinner. We tweaked the recipe slightly but you can find the original here. We originally found this when we were doing the Advocare 24 day challenge last summer and it’s tried and true.
Are you ready? Let’s go!
First things first, start prepping this a few hours before you want to eat. Because it takes some time to mix together and soak up the flavor. Cool? Cool.
Strawberry Salsa Ingredients
8 ounces of fresh strawberries – chopped
1/2 red onion – diced
Juice of 1 lime
Pinch of salt
Pinch of ground pepper
Squeeze that lime, Dude. RAWR!
Prepare the salsa first. It’s easy, yummy, and you can throw it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve the tacos. (Or, you can take little spoonfuls if you’re hungry.) (Not that I would ever do such a thing.)
Chipotle Lime Shrimp Ingredients
1 pound peeled and deveined raw shrimp (Do not make my mistake and buy ones that aren’t peeled. Because I’ll tell you what, Jay was not impressed with that task. Whoopsies.)
Juice of 2 limes
2 garlic cloves, minced (I keep a jar of minced garlic in the fridge) (#lazy) (#lessworkforme)
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon adobo sauce from a can of chipotle chile peppers in adobo sauce
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground pepper
Mix all the ingredients listed above in a bowl and then pour over the prepared shrimp. We throw them in a Ziplock freezer bag and shake it around before putting it in the fridge for about a half hour. Prior to shaking it around, make sure it’s really and truly zipped. Again, I speak from experience.
And hey, while these marinate, grab a drink and chill. While you’re waiting, you can also prepare the toppings for the tacos.
Taco Topping and Taco Taco Ingredients 8 4 inch corn tortillas – warmed (microwave for 30-45 seconds)
1 cup shredded cabbage
4 ounces queso fresco, crumbled (I sometimes can’t find this in my regular supermarket but I’ve had good luck at both Aldi and the Mexican mart nearby.)
1 lime, cut into wedges
After those 30 minutes tick by, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Put a glug or two of olive oil in the pan and put the marinated shrimp in the skillet. (Any extra marinade in the bag can be chucked.) Cook the shrimp 1 to 2 minutes, then flip the shrimp and cook a couple more minutes until they’re pink.
Set the table with shrimp, toppings, salsa, and tacos. Prepare your taco whichever way you’d like and proceed to stuff in your face.
A taste sensation! (Seriously, I need to lay off the children’s books.)
In unrelated but still AWESOME news, you might notice the new badge over in the sidebar for The Mermaid Club. I just found out this week that I’m a new ambassador! Isn’t it the most? More on that soon! Live life, make waves!
Seriously though, I know that there are two camps of people.
Those who want to hear all about my training, running, food, water intake, breathing.
The rest of the world… who are probably not reading this blog post.
So, for those who fall into the first camp, it’s no secret that I’m training for the Atlantic City April Fools Half. I talk about it a lot because it consumes a lot of my free time. AND, for the first time in a long time, my body is actually behaving, feeling pretty darn good, and seems to be on board with this plan.
As such, it’s training time and I’m armed and ready. I’ve got my 12 week half marathon plan. Bonus? I actually started training 12 weeks ahead of time. That rarely has never happened before.
I’ve got my sneakers (and new GoPro camera – heyyyy!).
Mizuno Wave Inspire 12s love the boardwalk.
And I’ve got my training partner in crime.
Chrissy and me, after our first training run for the April race.
Usually I don’t have the opportunity to train with my race day buddies; the majority of them are scattered across the country. You might remember Chrissy from last year’s Broad Street 10 Miler and Philly half – she’s local-ish (and we’ve been friends for the better part of 30 years).
Just before the open strains of Auld Lang Syne, Chrissy and I were texting about our training plans for the April Fools half and we came up with our long run game plan.
While we both live in New Jersey, we’re about an hour and a half apart. However, Atlantic City is equidistant from both of us so we figured, wouldn’t it make sense to train on the course? Yes! Yes, it would.
We both got really excited by this plan. We texted more. We messaged on Facebook and Instagram (to cover all our bases). We talked about the distance we wanted to go our first run. And then?
Then we looked at the weather.
So you’re saying New Jersey is cold in January?
We persevered! The excitement overrode the nervousness of the cold weather and we dressed appropriately.
And when I tell you it wasn’t that bad, it really wasn’t that bad! Once you start moving and enjoying the scenery, 5 miles goes fast!
The following week, we had 6 miles on tap. Again we checked the weather and while it was supposed to be cold, it was also supposed to be windy. Really windy. Extreme winds.
We made the executive decision to take it to the treadmill and text throughout to hold each other accountable. No wimping out!
My basement =/= the beach
I watched Pretty Little Liars (I’m liking it again, for the record – the 5 year jump did it for me).
Did 2:1 intervals and we got it done.
Well, that was not so much fun.
Then I laid down on the belt for awhile and took a rest.
I started a little bit earlier than Chrissy so I was about 2 miles into the run when she started. While supine, I texted encouraging messages to her until she wrapped up and sent me her finished selfie!
Look at that smile!
We were back out on the boards this week for our 7 mile run, with weather much like the first week of training. Hooray!
We felt pretty ready to be done at 5 miles but we kept going, circling back around because we ran out of boardwalk.
We’re still figuring all of this out as we go but there are a few hard and fast rules of our training runs.
We do what we want. For awhile we were doing 2:1 intervals but Chrissy has been doing 1:1 for about a year now. This past week, mid-run we decided to change back to 1:1. Why? Because it felt better. If we want to stop mid-run and take a picture in front of a sign, or the ocean, or the cool wall we found, we stop. Long slow distance, we take it to heart.
If you hear music, you must dance. There are a few places on the (very empty) boardwalk that have speakers with music playing. There is ALWAYS dancing. And sometimes singing. I haven’t gotten a video of it yet but trust me, I’m sure one will show up on the Instagram.
Stairs or escalator? No. There’s no or. See, that was a trick question. It’s always stairs. And if we’re feeling especially motivated we might run stairs after our run just for fun. (Okay, that only happened once so far.)
Food. Eating is a key part of the training run regiment. We found a little place that makes breakfast sandwiches and man, is it amazing. Seriously.
Ducks Fly Together! And when the roosters are crowing and the cows are spinning circles in the pasture? DUCKS FLY TOGETHER.
That last one is the most important. We stick together. And as long as we do that, by race day, we win no matter what.
Next week we have an 8 miler on tap and we’re really hoping that the impending blizzard doesn’t force us back to the treadmills. But if it does, I know I can do it because I’ve got my training partner in crime and together we can handle anything!
Are you training for a spring race? What’s the longest distance you’ve done on a treadmill? Do you try to run a local course before race day?
New Year, New You! How many times have we heard that? And how many times do we set out on a new year journey with the best of intentions, only to find that they fall to the wayside, some sooner than other. Because, not for nothing, but LIFE. Life can be overwhelming, exhausting, and throw you a few curve balls when you least expect them.
This post is for everyone. For those who need a little boost as we jump into 2016. Those who need a little ‘atta boy (or ‘atta girl). And those who are looking for motivation in all the right places. That would be right here, just so you know.
A year after the birth of my first son, (who will be 11 years old in February – Oh Em Gee) I found my local tribe and began a healthier lifestyle with a fitness course called Stroller Strides. Before that, I was basically a mess. I wish I were kidding but no, I’m not.
Anyway, it was there that I met many dear friends, including Brandi, Jen, and Megan. What kept ME going in those days was knowing that I had a standing date with them, every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.
Haddonfield Adrenaline 5k – 2015- Megan, me, Jen, and Brandi in the front. Matt and Sean in the back. I think this qualifies as business in the front, party in the back?
These women are very strong motivators in my life. They saw me through the very early stages of my running career, meeting me at local parks and telling me that I wasn’t going to die when I swore up and down that I would. (Running brings out the drama in me.)
Jen, Brandi, and Megan have been with me through it all and they continue to be there for me, supporting and lifting me up through every trial and tribulation. Furthermore, they are very strong in knowing their WHY. When you surround yourself with motivated people, you can’t help but set goals and achieve dreams yourself!
Rather than me blather on and on (after all, you get me all the time) I figured I would ask them if they would share what keeps them motivated. Naturally, they were all about it.
I believe staying motivated is a mindset. If your head is not fully in your decision to change, you will never change. As a personal trainer my career is to motivate people on a daily basis, but sometimes it’s hard to motivate myself to keep going.
One trick I have is to take a quiet moment to myself (even if that means escaping into the bathroom or in my car just to get a couple of minutes alone), take a breath, and ask myself what I am trying to achieve in that moment and how I can do it.
I am also a list maker, so if I can find a quote that moves me, I will write it at the top of my list as a reminder, then start to list all the steps I need to work on completing my goal. It’s all about keeping my Negative Nelly voice quiet and not let her be loud enough for me to hear. When I keep her quiet I know I can do anything I set my mind to.
Did you ever hear of that quote that says “I don’t have the time, I make the time” in regards to working out? Maybe it’s because I went to Catholic school; maybe it’s because I’m a teacher but I have been told that I would do really well in the military.
My running schedule is a fine oiled machine that screams at me from most-high on the fridge, like a Jillian Michaels trainer. That’s just the way I like it. The calendar is my motivation. I use good old fashion pen and paper. I need to see the big picture, like a month, to see progress or slowing down. It holds me accountable. I see gaps, highs, and lows. I see variety. Everyday is something different, if I want it to be. I have control, I write it down, and cross it off with pride when I have finished.
It all started like this. I came face to face with very common issues most young mothers have.
“How do I work out with young children/babies?”
“How do I muster the energy after the baby has been crying all night?”
“How do I make time for myself without feeling guilty?”
I only have so many hours to get what I want completed before 3 o’clock hits and then BAM! Homework, snack, dinner, karate, etc!
I was already in the frame of mind that I don’t need to pay an arm and a leg for a gym. I can run at home on the treadmill in the basement or with the jogger. YouTube videos like XHIT Daily work for strength training days.
My magic numbers started out as 2 days cardio, 2 days lifting. But after training for and completing Philly Half Marathon and then sliding right into the Runner’s World Holiday Run Streak (#rwrunstreak), the schedules are showing me that my body can go harder and farther than expected.
Just as I scheduled my workouts, the day also has baby time, rest time, and clean time. It just works for me. Some days, something gets skipped. With hyper-scheduling comes fluidity. But as the calendar shows me, there is always tomorrow to conquer.
What keeps me motivated? I think that I have found that as I get older, what keeps me motivated in most everything in life (exercise, parenting, studying, going to the grocery store, you name it) is pretty much the same things.
Motivation boils down to whatever is going to make me feel happy or is going to make my inner light shine. If the end result is a sense of overall awesomeness, then I can pretty much push myself to do it, whatever that particular “it” may be. I link myself with positive and inspirational people. Motivation is contagious. I do activities that bring the most joy. If in some way it doesn’t feel good at the end, then it might not have been worth doing.
I tap into the mantra of my yoga studio…what is the BEST that can happen??? Don’t go looking at the worst thing that can happen. Bad stuff can always pop up along the way. But, if I choose to venture down a road (or lace up my running shoes, or put my butt on my yoga mat or tackle a new project)…what is the BEST possible outcome? A focus on the positive leaves me challenged and inspired instead of putting me in a negative frame of mind.
If I’m not feeling motivated in the moment, I think of reasons why I shouldn’t do something. Are they truly valid reasons? Or are they simple EXCUSES or JUSTIFICATIONS for letting myself off the hook?
Valid reasons, I can live with.
Excuses, I cannot.
And through the course of it all, I allow time for breaks and silence and laziness and gratitude and reflection. Those moments and days are not “excuses” or a “lack of motivation.” They are instead rewards for kicking my own ass the rest of the time. Those little breaks are a way to honor my joy and reflection on the hard work that goes into everything I choose to do, and they are a way to recharge my motivation for the next task. Nothing fancy, but I have found that truly living a life I love (even in the hardest of moments) is motivation enough to see me through pretty much anything.
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I would love to hear what thoughts or mantras keep YOU motivated as you trip along life’s journey. A positive and a forgiving heart seem to really go a long way when I am dealing with myself. I tend to want to go, go, go but sometimes I have to remind myself that I’m only able to do so much in the time that I’m given each day and that it’s okay because I’m still doing incredible things.
If you’re anything like me you start your race planning way, way in advance. It stands to reason that when you L-O-V-E a race, you register ASAP for the next year.
As it goes with the AC Marathon’s April Fools Half. Registration for their races opens as soon as the current race is over. 2016 will be my 5th consecutive year running the race and I’ve been running since the inaugural year in 2012. Can’t stop, won’t stop!
One of the things that I love most about this race is that I’m never alone! It’s a small race of usually around 2,000 runners and I’m always surrounded by friends and making them along the way.
2012 – Cam’s first ever half marathon (I was a seasoned pro as it was my second) and Bec ran the 7k.
In 2013 college buddies joined me on the 13.1 trek up and down the boards!
I rocked that Jersey Strong shirt at quite a few races that year!
In 2014 nearly all of the then current Scoot a Doot chicks were present (we carried a picture of west coast Jess so she was represented) and awesome friends too!
Stunners!
This year brought the Rockford Peaches to the AC boardwalk! We not only rocked the 13.1 miles but the costume contest as well. It was Jenn’s first half and we had an awesome time crossing the finish line together.
2015 – Dirt in the skirt!
The past four years have been absolutely incredible! #blessed
And TODAY, the AC Marathon Race Series shared the medal for the 2016 race. If you’ve been considering this race, this might just be what you need as incentive. You know, besides me being there! 😉
source – Atlantic City Marathon
The 7k/11k medal! source – Atlantic City Marathon
Are you a legacy runner of any races? What keeps you coming back for more? Personally, this series is tried and true. It’s my birthday race (yes, I’m an April Fools baby) and it’s one that I really look forward to each year.
Two winters ago I was dealing with a lot of snow and a bit of ennui. Brooke in Florida suggested we participate in a streak and since I’m game for anything Brooke suggests, I completed my first run streak ever.
Last holiday season was a tough one and I didn’t feel like doing much of anything at all. We all have times like that, right?
But guess who’s back? Back again. (Please sing Eminem with me.) When a friend mentioned the Runner’s World Run Streak in a Facebook post last month I said to myself, “Self, this is something that would keep you accountable and moving throughout the holidays! You should do this.”
Day 1, I hit the streets with Gemma June. Why yes, my dog has a middle name.
My healthy ways have been somewhat lacking for the past month while we remodeled our bathroom. I’m happy to report that I’m back in my gym routine and running daily, thanks to the run streak! Plus, thanks to global warming (that’s weird to say), it’s actually been pretty gorgeous here in New Jersey and I’ve been able to get outside for many of my miles.
Ran through the field at my son’s school while he rode nearby and cheered for me.
That’s not to say that everything is AMAZING and I love every moment. There are definitely days that I don’t want to get out there. Timing has been tough, thanks to scheduling conflicts and I’m sort of one that thrives on routines so throwing a run in midday or at night after eating dinner (blech) isn’t always easy. My favorite time to run is in the morning. But you know what? I’ve gotten it done – at least a mile a day for the past 15 days.
Some days I push hard. Other days I just take it “easy” and when I say easy, I mean as easy as running can be. For me, it’s never easy. And that’s okay. I’ve been happy with my miles thus far and haven’t regretted a single one.
Momentum Jewelry keeps me motivated. And trust me when I say, when I’m glancing at my watch, I’m internalizing those words. I repeat them as a cadence.
When I’m out there with my dog, she’s always pushing my pace and we’re trying not to trip over each other. Okay, okay, I’m trying not to trip over her.
Come on, mom! Let’s go!
If the outside option isn’t available, I’m lucky to have my trusty treadmill. I like having all my senses available when I’m running with my dog so I haven’t been listening to music when running outside. When I get on the treadmill? I rock out!
Dancing, singing, hands in the air like I just don’t care.
15 days down out of 37 – so far, so good! I’m loving this run streak and I’m happy that I’m loving it. So much of this month is dedicated to others, which is always something that pleases my philanthropic heart, but I also love having something that it mine.
My foot doesn’t hurt, my legs feel strong, and hey, it’s supposed to be a high of 63 degrees today so excuse me while I get out there!
Have you ever done a run streak? Are you participating in the #RWRUNSTREAK? How’s it been going for you?
The Philly Marathon holds a special place in my heart. This race is THE ONE. The one that inspired me to run.
In 2010, I cheered Victoria during her first full marathon and that was where I was officially bit by the running bug.
In 2011, I ran my first road race, the Rothman 8k, which is part of the weekend’s events with Brooke (and cheered Victoria the next day during the half).
2012 was a year of volunteering – I gave out heat wraps and medals – giving back to the running community that has provided me with so much.
2013 was a year of cheering Kyle at HER first marathon. Are you sensing a theme here?
And finally, in 2014, I ran the half, while Victoria ran the full.
This year I once again registered nice and early for the half. As the date drew closer I asked my dear friend, Chrissy, if she had any interest in joining me. Chrissy is newer to the running game and we had a lot of fun at the Broad Street 10 Miler in May. She and I have been friends since 3 grade and I always have a blast with her. After talking her into it (not difficult, for the record) we were ready to embrace the race!
The most important thing, besides the running, was what we were going to wear. Since we are from the Northeast and since we love coffee, hot chocolate, donuts, bagels, and everything else Dunkin’ Donuts has to offer… we settled on this!
Flat us, practicing holding hands.
We woke up bright and early on race day and made our way to… Dunkin’ Donuts. Because, you know, priorities.
Got the train to Philly and walked the mile or so to the start area. The goal was to meet up with Bonnie pre-race to give high fives, hugs, and pep talks.
But that’s not exactly how it played out.
There were security lines that seemed to go on for blocks, serpentine-ing around streets and buildings.
Since the Boston Marathon tragedy occurred, they’ve added security check points at the Philly Marathon. I sincerely appreciate and completely understand the efforts.
However, this was like nothing I’d seen before. I know recent events had an effect on this but there was a lack of communication, volunteers, and general knowledge for the runners waiting in line. Additionally a lot of people who were cheering were in this line and I think that made the quantity of people more than the checkers could handle swiftly.
We waited on the line for an hour, without seeing much movement. Once the clock struck 7am (the time the race was supposed to start), all of a sudden we moved at a fast pace, streaming through the gates. The first racers were off at 7:13.
That said, that was the only snafu that we encountered that day. Everything can’t be perfect, right? We still made it into the blue corral with plenty of time to spare. Sometimes being in the last corral has its benefits!
We danced our way up to the start line, jamming to songs like the Percolator and Murder She Wrote over the sound system. Kicking it old school!
Soon we crossed the start line and took off to the sounds of the Rocky theme. Obviously! We heard that often throughout the 13.1 miles and I pumped my arms over my head each time.
I think one of the (many) reasons I adore running in Philly because I know where we are at all times. It’s my own personal tour of Philly, via foot! We passed the church my friends recently got married in and then a bit later on, the Moshulu, where their reception was held. In October, Jay and I drove from point A to point B. Not so much on Sunday!
Chrissy and I were doing 1:1 intervals and keeping our eyes peeled for fun things. Like all the Dunkin’ Donuts along the course. I’m pretty sure we saw at least 6!
Instagram friend and fellow blue buddy Rachel found usand we got to see her several times throughout the race, which was awesome.
Running a course you know is also sort of a mixed blessing because you know what to expect… and where the huge hill is. We hit several smaller hills and Chrissy would ask me each time, “Is THIS it?” And my answer every time was, “No. But you’ll know when it is.”
Now?
And she did. Because it felt like it was never ever going to end. Once we finally got passed it, we resumed our 1:1 intervals throughout Fairmount Park.
I listened to an awesome pep talk that someone else was getting from their personal cheer squad. I decided that I too, needed a pep talk, which I voiced. An awesome man on the course did just that. You can always rely on fellow runners to pick you up!
After the rough uphill a bit early, there was a glorious, glorious downhill. Hurrah! At the bottom of the downhill was a cheer group that I was very much looking forward to.
Turn up your speakers and get ready to boogie!
Are they not freaking awesome?
From there, we knew we only had a few miles left. Our goal was to finish under 3 hours and we knew if we stay consistent with our intervals, we would achieve it!
I focused on my breathing and listening for the beep of Chrissy’s watch. We didn’t talk much the last couple of miles, we just wanted to get to this point.
Jokers to the left, clowns to the right?
Once we got passed that sign and saw the front of the Art Museum, it was go time. We started to pick up speed and crossed the finish line, hand in hand!
And then we got medaled. Which was when all the emotions hit.
And there might have been a few happy tears shed between the two of us.
We did it! Furthermore, we did it together and felt really accomplished about the entire experience.
Chrissy has told me a few times that I’m one of the reasons that she started running and I can’t even begin to tell you how special that makes me feel. I know what running does for me and to have her be able to experience that and feel so positive, it’s truly a blessing to be part of her journey.
This medal is the BEST. It rings!
We found Rachel again while waiting for the finish line snacks and goodies and it was great to be able to catch up with her and learn of her 32 minute PR. Freaking awesome! As was the warm chicken broth and rice that they give at the end of the line of goodies. I told the volunteers how excited I was for it and they seemed surprised. No way, man! The salt and the warmth is perfection.
On the train Chrissy and I took our banana phone picture, as is standard practice here!
We also rang our medals incessantly. I’m sure the other passengers loved us. No shame!
Once the Philadelphia Marathon weekend is complete, I feel like it’s the official start of Thanksgiving and holiday time. So, come at me, sides! My body is ready!
The Scoot a Doot Chicks hope you all have a very happy, healthy, and safe Thanksgiving! We’ll see you back around these parts on Friday.
Think back to what you were doing in January of this year. Usually I can’t remember what I did yesterday, let alone what was going on in January but I can tell you broad strokes. It was cold here, probably snowing, because it snowed all winter. I wasn’t eating sugar (errrrr, I really need to get back on that for a bit). And I was dreaming of fall racing.
Naturally, when my Florida buddy, Meredith, messaged me asking if I was interested in doing the Hershey half I said, “You betcha!” After checking on logistics of the date, and stalking the website to see when registration opened (May 1st, for the record), we paid our registration fee and processing fee of $81.31.
We love you Mr. Hershey!
We both went about life after that until September rolled around and we realized, “Oh crap! The Hershey Half is next month!” My foot was still on the mend and training was less than stellar but I badly wanted to do this race so I figured that I would be able to keep the 14 minute mile course requirement. Plus MEREDITH! I hadn’t seen her since January when I got a brief glimpse of her running her first marathon in Disney.
Our planning was minimal. Our mindset was to just have fun and see where the course took us (aka, the finish line). With Hershey Kisses on our Sparkle Athletic visors, of course.
Meredith made the kisses! Always doing my part, I supplied the tape.
The expo was small and simple, although a little on the breezy side since it was held in the walkway between the arena and outside. The weather had us worried, with temps only reaching 34 degrees.
This race comes with lots of perks, besides the basics of the shirt and medal. At the expo we were given cinch bags that had the 13.1 magnets, candy, and two tickets for the amusement park! We put those to good use both Saturday and Sunday.
Is she not the cutest?
Meredith is used to Florida weather and I’m used to… well, I’m used to this type of weather but I can’t say I love it. As long as there wasn’t wind, we assumed we would be okay with our layers upon layers. On Sunday morning we bundled up; I brought extra tights so we’d both have warm legs and Meredith hand warmers for us.
The start of the race seemed a little chaotic. There were no corrals and we weren’t exactly sure where we were going or even where the start was in relation to where we were. We followed the hoards and eventually found our way to where we needed to be.
The first mile was crowded as the 5,000 runner took off all together; Meredith and I got separated nearly immediately but I could see her just a little bit ahead of me. I ran the first mile before settling into 1:1 intervals.
Right around mile 2 I caught up to Mer and we decided to stick together for the rest of the race with the 1:1 intervals. After that first mile, the course opened up and never felt crowded.
Mile 3 was in the park.
What you did feel were the hills and they were numerous! Again, I’m in a flat area of New Jersey, so what I consider a hill isn’t really a hill. These were HILLS, all capital letters.
May you run and not be weary.
The crowd support was really nice during this race. It wasn’t Philly marathon sized crowds however, it seemed like the spectators were spaced exactly right. They knew where they were needed. Always on hills (which, remember, were never ending) and always with a kind word. Everyone was in good spirits on the course, too and I had fun chatting with people throughout.
The views were pretty spectacular. Fall in the Northeast, not too shabby.
Just after the hydration stop (which were plenty and well spaced) my foot was a little achy. I think it was right around mile 5; I knew that we just needed to push on and get it done.
The Meridith/Meredith team cannot be stopped!
There was a relay option so at mile 6.55 it was the hand off for that. Usually seeing people with their medals at this point might have been a little disheartening. However, we were thrilled to actually see the medals, as we hadn’t up until this point. They were adorable Hershey Kisses and that put some pep in our step up a hill.
The ladies of Desserts, Etc. were handing out COOKIES on the route, so you can bet we grabbed those.
The next few miles were through the Milton Hershey School campus and oh my gosh, those kids. Those kids. What a boost!
The only sad part was somewhere along this stretch is where I lost my KISS! My taping skills need work. Whomp.
We hit mile 11 which lead us back through town. They were giving out Hershey Kisses which we were pretty happy about and we laughed at these signs.
Up another hill and then a blissful downhill during the Children’s Miracle Network mile. I’m pretty sure that was the only downhill the entire race. (I might exaggerate slightly.) (But only slightly.)
We knew we were in the home stretch at this point. My watch had been reading .25 ahead the entire race but even still, when it alerted me to the fact that I’d run 13 miles and the finish line was nowhere in site, I was a little despondent.
The finish was in the arena and I knew we had to be inside but we kept going and going and going.
FINALLY, we turned, made our way into the arena and ran as fast as our legs would carry us over the finish line!
At the end of the race we were pretty excited to get our Hershey Kisses medals, heat wraps, and recovery bags which were little cooler bags with pretzels, a cookie, granola bar, apple, whey protein bar, and a Hershey bar. Chocolate Town Challenges spares no expense for their racers and it’s appreciated!
Overall, I loved this race. I’ve found my most recent races have renewed my sense of strength and self and for that, I’m so grateful.
What are your bucket list races?
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