What’s in your belt? SPIbelt giveaway

May 30, 2013 by scootadoot

What essentials do you need while running?

Recently, during one of our (many) long emails threads, the Chicks got to chatting about the must-haves for training runs and races.

Which naturally lead to us talking about how we carry said essentials because the little pocket in the back of our pants or skirts can only fit so much, like a singular key or some cash.

See that little pouch on Brooke? That’s the SPIbelt and it’s what quite a few of us use to hold our stuff. It’s like the mom of running gear – shove everything at it and you’re good to go!

A runner’s spin on the “dump your purse” pictures, we decided to dump our belts.

Some of us, like Brooke, don’t need much.

Brooke’s minimalist approach.

While others need everything and the kitchen sink!

Vic’s stash includes her expired driver’s license and extra pins.

Mer’s non-minimalist approach. She has an order of placement too; the money is always tucked in the very back.

And still others want more…

Brooke’s husband, Josh. Okay, fine, you can’t fit wine bottles in the SPIbelt. We’ve tried.

SPI stands for Small Personal Item belt and what we love about these are that the material stretches to fit quite a few items. The belt snaps on and off easily and holds the pouch to you snug, so nothing is bouncing around. Additionally, SPIbelt sells toggles so you can attach a bib to the belt.

We picked our SPIbelts up in 2011 (at the Philadelphia Marathon expo) and have been happily using them ever since! The SPIbelt saved Mer’s phone during a tropical storm run.

Happy Mer runs on Broad St. in Philly.

After we emailed (ahem… fanmailed) SPIbelt to tell them of our love for their belts, they contacted us and offered up an Original belt for a giveaway to our Scooters! Super stoked? Yep, us too!

Check it out and let us know in the comments what essentials YOU bring along on a run. And hey, if you want us to dump our purses too, let us know in the comments and we can probably work that up for you.

Click the pic to enter!

The entries for this giveaway begins 5/30/2013 and completes 6/4/2013. An Original SPIbelt will be mailed to the winner so that person will need to provide their address when contacted. The color of the SPIbelt will be chosen at random.

Kettlebellin’

May 29, 2013 by beewhobabbles

There’s a new toy in my home gym (aka, my bedroom). It looks like a little black purse, weighs 15 pounds and it’s completely rocking my fitness routine.

Mama tote vs. kettlebell. The bell wins. Barely.

Mama tote vs. kettlebell. The bell is heavier. Barely.

I’m talking about the kettlebell. I first used one of these a few months ago, with my trainer. The weight isn’t evenly distributed, like it is with a dumbbell, so it can give you a more challenging workout, if you want it to. And I do!

Row with a kettlebell

I wanted to find a kettlebell circuit to do at home, because sometimes I don’t have time to get to the gym, and I also really like shopping for things, even exercise equipment. I googled a bit and found one that was perfect for a beginner; with pictures and clear instructions.

I’ve been doing this workout from Women’s Health once or twice a week for a few weeks now. It’s challenging. I feel like I’m getting a great workout. I love that I can do it at home, while the kids play right next to me. I’m hooked!

Squats while I watch the girls make art.

Squats while I watch the girls do artwork.

I read a fitness article in this month’s InStyle magazine, and one of the tips resonated with me.

photo(15)

Amazing advice for a busy mom, especially as I head into summer vacation with all of the kids at home every day. I have some ideas to incorporate workouts with them (pre-school yoga, anyone?), but I know we’ll be out and about, enjoying our break too. I’m going to try to stick to my workout plan, but I’m really happy to have a few ways to stay active when I can’t log miles at the gym (or outside because the Florida heat is hot, y’all).

Have you tried the kettlebell? What do you do at home if you can’t get to the gym? Any awesome summer plans? (I actually have an entire schedule for the kids. Lots of art, field trips, swimming, playdates, reading and some learning too.)

In or Out

May 28, 2013 by bec2point0

From the moment I sent off my lottery entry for the Falmouth Road Race, I basically thought of nothing else. I mean, I didn’t sit by my computer, clicking the refresh button on my email like a lab rat trying to get a treat. I wanted to. Believe me, I wanted to. But this job and these kids and this life had demands on me, and I shoved the lottery as far back in my mind as I could.

It wasn’t very far.

In quiet moments, I would think about whether or not I’d get in… sometimes hoping against hope that I’d get picked and sometimes wondering what on Earth had compelled me to enter in the first place and praying they’d pass on me.

The closer it got, the more I panicked. What if I got in? That heat… all those people… THOSE HILLS.

So, by the time the 23rd rolled around, I had myself pretty worked up about the idea of getting in. I sent my friend Anne many texts about how scared I was, which she returned, because she’s good like that.

And then, I got a text from her. “Falmouth doesn’t want us.”

I checked my email. Nothing. We were registered as a team, so if she wasn’t in, I wasn’t in. But without an official “sorry, better luck next time” email, I couldn’t process it. What if it was a mistake? What if somehow they didn’t have us as a team and she didn’t get in and I did??

What if I had to run this alone? WHAT IF I HAD TO RUN THIS PERIOD?

I was beyond freaking out at this point. I am in no shape to be running that far, in that competitive a race, in the next 80 days. And the idea of getting in became more petrifying by the second.

And then I got the email.

And then I cried. Like, legit cried, right at my desk at work.

I’m still not sure if it was relief or disappointment that had me in tears. Probably some of both.

I didn’t realize until I truly wasn’t in, just how much I wanted to be. In the days between registration and rejection, I’d gotten attached to the idea of running this race. And suddenly, it was just… over.

I know it’s not personal. I know I wasn’t rejected based on my merits. I know so many other people got that email that day.

Still, it stung.

With some time to process, I’ve gotten okay with it. Because there are other races. Because I think it would have been a physical challenge beyond my capability right now. BECAUSE THOSE HILLS. DAMN.

And because there’s always next year. If I chose to enter, that is.

(I’m totally entering).

So, to my fellow Falmouth rejects, let’s hug it out. And to those that got in, go kick a little Cape Cod butt! I’ll be cheering you on. From my couch. Don’t hate.

So, lotteries. What do you think? And please feel free to give Bec your recs for a 10-15K type race sometime this fall, because she’s got a half to train for and if she thinks that Meri is going to let her rest on her…laurels… she’s got another thing coming.

Another Mother Runner… Or Two!

May 27, 2013 by scootadoot

Living an entire country apart, we find interesting reasons to reunite. Most of the time it includes running and for a good long while now, we’ve been trying to get it to include a Ragnar Relay Race.

We Chicks also know the importance of Mother tribe support when it comes to running. Note the book that Brooke sent along to Meridith when she began running.

So when we saw this contest on Another Mother Runner’s site, we saw a perfect opportunity for Mer and Cam to support AMR and their quest for Ragnar domination.

The Evidence

Exhibit R – We Love Ragnar

Okay, well, Cam loves Ragnar. Mer *thinks* she loves Ragnar. Cam starts most conversations with “So, have you heard of Ragnar?” and talks about her Ninja team. A lot. She’s ran six Ragnars. She’s practically an expert, and expertise is always a valuable addition to a team. This makes Mer an expert by proxy.

Because seriously, Cam can’t shut up about Ragnar.

Coincidence or destiny? That’s Cam’s Ninja star!

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-2FMr91qZ_M&w=560&h=315]

Exhibit A – We’ll bring snacks!

Being moms, we take the role of snack provider very seriously. Cam’s carried cake onto a plane before, don’t think she won’t do it again. You never know what gourmet morsel you’ll find in Mer’s arsenal, but one thing’s for sure, she doesn’t mess around. Chick Jess can attest.

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WEm8d9EFdbY&w=420&h=315]

Gratutious shot of Jess' baby. Because who doesn't love babies? We helped feed this child's parents right after he was born.

Gratutious shot of Jess’ baby. We helped feed this child’s parents right after he was born.

Cam’s Recovery Cupcakes

Exhibit G – We’ll make costumes!

With Mer’s imagination and Cam’s sewing machine, we have quite the reputation of running while cute. The best part? We’re shameless! We don’t care what kind of shenanigans you have in store for us, we’ll rock it like a mother. Chick Vic knows what’s up.

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CaUjaxivgyY&w=420&h=315]

Three Sleeping Beauty fairies are we.

So awesome Cam even won Best Female Costume at the Superhero 5k

Look! We even use mud to our costuming advantage.

Exhibit N – We don’t mind letting other people be in charge!

Mer and Cam are here for the good of the team. We’ll grab that wheel if it’s available! But we’re not above letting someone else drive. Occasionally. We’re never bossy. And we’d never, ever, force people to make videos proclaiming our awesomeness. See, even Mer’s husband Jay says so. (Say it, Jay. SAY IT.)

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6aWEma1zk6k&w=560&h=315]

We hereby promise to only ever use the megaphone for the good of all Ragnarians!

Fear the Megaphone!

Exhibit A – We’re musically inclined.

As previously indicated by this post, Cam and Mer have diverse music tastes. You want to rock out? We can jam on the air guitar. You want to spit phat rhymes? We’ll throw down.

Chick Brooke says it best.

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sZePXdiNOPw&w=420&h=315]

Exhibit R – We’ve got mad jokes.

We love to laugh. Being in a smelly van with 10 strangers overnight while running 200 miles is going to take a sense of humor and we’re funny mothers.

We’re very serious runners.

Our Chick Bec has some words and some eye rolls.

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_7VGLRsdZQ0&w=420&h=315]

Closing Arguments

Representing both coasts! We can be like the Tupac and Biggie of Ragnar.

Representing both coasts! We’re like the Tupac and Biggie of Ragnar.

The truth is, we’re an awesome duo. We’re hardworking moms who love running and love talking about running. We’re excited about this opportunity and will bring a ton of fun to anything we’re a part of. Still not convinced? (How is this possible?!?!) Well, Cam has something to say about that!

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hAoeIb-x61s&w=420&h=315]

We’re the moms you’re looking for… Jedi mind trick is always worth a shot.

Pick us, otherwise we’ll have perma-sad faces. You don’t want that on your conscience, do you?

What to do with retired running shoes

May 24, 2013 by vfreile

If your house is anything like mine, piles of running shoes are everywhere.

You have retired sneakers too worn out to run in, but great for yard work. There’s the castaway stash, which never quite felt right, but you can’t bring yourself to ditch.

Then there’s the complete reject pile, only good for activities like beach combing or boating. Ya know, where you will barely use said dead sneakers.

Ultimately, you use ’em one last time at a mud run, or donate the shoes at running expo. Or, you toss them in the bin.

Here’s a new organization we have proudly partnered with – Kindrunner.com

May we introduce you to Kindrunner! The scooters are proud to partner with the fab folks at Kindrunner, where patrons can trade in old, used running shoes for new shoes.

Runners receive “Kindness Cash Rewards” for every old pair they send in. The old shoes are then shipped to donation charity partners, including Soles 4 Souls, to assist people in need. That’s right, your discarded sneakers get a second life outside your closet or a landfill.

Kindrunner will officially launch on June 1. So we will have more details on how you can participate and join the movement then.

In the meantime, check out Kindrunner.com, as they are currently holding a contest to giveaway free running shoes for you and a partner for one year. Sign me up!

In the meantime, here they are online!

– Facebook: http://facebook.com/kindrunner
– Twitter: https://twitter.com/beAkindrunner
– Instagram: http://instagram.com/beakindrunner
– Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/user/Kindrunner

What do you do with your old running shoes? Tell us in the comments.

Recipe Box: Tomato and Corn Pizza

May 23, 2013 by Meridith

Brooke is our resident recipe sharer, so it’s only natural that I first heard about this delish pizza from her. A couple of summers ago I was searching for new recipes and Brooke came to the rescue with a boatload of recipes, including this one.

Okay, it was three recipes. Does three constitute a boatload? Let’s pretend it does.

Ingredients

I’ll chime in with my notes after each.

3 small plum tomatoes, sliced
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1 (14-oz.) package prebaked Italian pizza crust – the Boboli Wheat is pretty rad but really, anything will work. Anything that is pizza crust, that is. Don’t try using cardboard. That would be bad. Sidenote: someone in college actually attempted to warm pizza and didn’t remove it from the cardboard box before putting it in the oven. That was a mistake.
Parchment paper – this isn’t absolutely necessary, as I have made the pizza sans parchment paper. But it does help reduce stickage.
1/3 cup refrigerated pesto – this can be homemade or jarred, I’ve used both and both taste delicious. However, I don’t use 1/3 cup. I just use as much as it takes to cover the pizza crust. Actually, maybe I do use 1/3 cup and don’t know it. Hmmmm.
1/2 cup fresh corn kernels – fresh, frozen, whatevs!
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – that’s a fact. I really do use 1/4 grated Parmesan. Measured and all.
1 teaspoon sugar
8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced

Preparation

Place tomato slices on paper towels. Sprinkle with salt and pepper; let stand 20 minutes.
While you’re waiting for the moisture to drain from the tomatoes, pre-heat your oven to 450°.
My goal is to dirty up as many dishes as possible to give the illusion of more work for me. I’m sure my husband is on to this.My plan goes a little something like this:
- Plate to cut the tomatoes
- Plate to slice the mozzarella – my mozzarella has no salt added, which I suppose is good since I just did the Salt and Pepa (Slide, Push It!) to the tomatoes. The package says that it’s easy open. But don’t believe their lies, because it was not.
- Bowl to mix together corn, Parmesan, and sugar
- Measuring cups! Measuring spoons! Mixing spoons! NO UTENSIL LEFT BEHIND!
Place pizza crust on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet; spread with pesto (however much or little you’d like).
Bake at 450° for 14 minutes or until cheese is melted and golden. While you’re waiting for the pizza to cook, snack on leftover tomatoes. YUM!
Remove from oven. Try not to shove directly in mouth to avoid burning oneself (trust me on this one) and enjoy!

The original recipe is on MyRecipes.com but I made some modifications.

Road Tested: Injinji Socks

May 23, 2013 by writeitdownjess

We love trying new things, and we love them even more when they’re free! Hey, we’re easy. So when Outside PR gave us the chance to try Injinji Performance Toesocks, we said “you betcha!”

According to their website, Injinji Performance Toesocks have an anatomical 5 toe sleeve design to properly align your toes, prevent blisters, and promote proper posture and balance, among other benefits. They looked cool and very unique, but did they deliver?

Curious? Read on to see our road-tested results.

Brooke

I tried the Run 2.0 mid-weight crew sock and for me, the best thing about these socks is how incredible they are at wicking away sweat. I’m in Florida, where it’s hot and hotter, and my socks and feet usually feel wet and gross after a run. Not so with these! I’m happy to report that the sock was damp but my foot felt pretty dry, even after an outdoor run.

It took some toe-wiggling, but I quickly adjusted to the shape of these socks. I am prone to toe blisters, so I think they would be awesome for a longer run.

Vic

My toes were confused. They didn’t know what to think. But honestly, they got over it pretty quickly.

I took the socks on a test run (ha!) a few times last week. Each time I thought there would be no way my toes would adjust. But they always did – and in the first mile. Instead of thinking about the socks and how each toe was cushioned by fabric, sort of like a glove, I found my mind wandering.

Ouch, my legs are tight. Damn, it was 35 degrees yesterday and 75 degrees today. What’s THAT all about? The new neighbors are building a hideous trellis. OK mister motorist! Don’t. Hit. Me.

Since I wasn’t thinking about my socks, that means nothing nagging my tootsies. And that’s a compliment. They were comfortable and cushy and my toes felt protected. The trickiest part was putting them on, as you need to guide each toe into its sleeve and my toes are – um – flawed.

Long story short. I like them.

Meri

“Those are some fancy socks.” Pooks was eying up my Injinji socks from the moment they arrived.

“They sure are,” I replied.

He picked the package up and investigated, curiously looking at the toes. “So they’re like gloves for your feet?”

“Very much like that.”

A bit later, I put the socks on, preparing for my run. He silently (which is a rarity) eyed me up in them. “Your baby toe doesn’t fill up the sock.” Way to make the little guy feel inadequate, kid. But it was true; genetically, my toes might not be as long as others. I’ve come to accept that.

Once I put my sneakers on, he looked somewhat disappointed.

“What?”

“Oh, they look like regular socks now. Do they feel like regular socks?”

“Well, no. My toes are separated, which is a bit different. I’m going for a run to try them out.”

Once I ran far away from my child and his probing questions, I have to say that I forgot about the toes being separated and just enjoyed my run (as much as I ever enjoy a run!). The material of the Injinjis was the biggest draw for me, light and breathable. They also washed well.

When I returned from my run, Pooks was waiting by the door. I was gross and sweaty and he watched as I kicked off my shoes, anxious to see the socks once more.

“Can I have fancy socks like that?”

I won’t be at all surprised if the Injinji socks disappear from my sock drawer and wind up in my eight year olds. We might just have to get him a pair, too!

Cam

I found the socks pretty comfortable when I first put them on. I’ve never worn toe shoes or socks before, so it was a little tricky at first. They fit pretty well, there wasn’t any loose fabric bunched around my feet or toes. I really liked the feel of the fabric and the fit through the middle of my foot.

When I put my shoes on, they felt a little bit too snug in the toe box. My toes were being pressed apart more than normal, which is expected given the nature of the sock. During my first run, I started cramping in the balls of my feet. I’m assuming this is due to the adjustment that my feet were making because my toes were now in a different place and different muscles were having to work harder than normal. I couldn’t wear them for very long.

The second time I wore them, I used them for my boxing class. Boxing requires a lot of shuffling around on your toes and jumping rope, and I wear a different, wider and flatter shoe for this class. I didn’t have as much cramping as during my run, and I did like how the socks allowed for easier balance.

I’m thinking these socks might be something I have to train my feet for, but I like the idea of running with a more natural foot. I’m going to continue wearing them for short runs and workouts in the hope that my feet will acclimate.

Jess

I’ve always been a fan of toe socks. In fact, I rocked some pretty stylish rainbow ones in high school (only at home. My parents didn’t judge, bless them). So, I was pretty excited to try these out. Who doesn’t love the idea of sliding each of their toes into little toe sleeping bags?

I received the no-show style, which is my favorite kind of running sock. I want people to see my flashy shoes, not my socks. But I’m forever and ever and ever adjusting them because normally they slide down while I’m exercising and bunch up at the bottom of my heel. The Injinji socks didn’t move. Not an inch. They conformed beautifully to my foot and felt super secure. I was a little worried at first that they might have felt too secure to the point of constriction, but that feeling went away within a minute or so. I just wasn’t used to having a sock that fit nice and snug.

Overall, the socks fit my feet really well, stayed where they were supposed to, and felt lightweight enough that I didn’t really feel them after a while. They were super comfortable and as a cherry on top of the sock sundae, my feet weren’t a sweaty mess when all was said and done. Very impressed with Injinji, even if I can’t say it!

Bec

I expected to hate these socks, honestly. Stuff between my toes is NOT my favorite thing. Plus, I have pudgy pork sausage toes, so I fully anticipated pinky toe strangulation. But, I actually found these pretty comfy! They are super soft and they stretch well. So, while they won’t replace my beloved race day socks, they’ll totally go into my rotation.

Running naked

May 20, 2013 by vfreile

I ran naked this weekend and it felt great.

Now don’t get the wrong idea. I wasn’t in my birthday suit!! Inspired in part by blooming, aromatic flowers in my community and my friend Cori, I decided to run watch-free this weekend.

Let me explain.

Spring finally arrived here in Rochester, NY, which means the lilacs are in bloom. Rochester’s climate is ideal for lilacs, and my county’s oldest park has more than 500 varieties and 1,200 lilac bushes on the slope in Highland Park. They smell amazing!

Lilacs in bloom! Pic by Chick Vic

When I headed out the door for a run this week, I found myself stopping repeatedly to smell the flowers. That’s right. I literally paused at each and every lilac bush along my route and shoved my nose into the buds.

After several 3-ish-mile loops on my road this week, I realized:
1. I really do love the scent of lilacs
2. I enjoyed pausing mid-run for a fun reason
3. I often out too much pressure on myself mid-run, to run on pace and not stop.

So. I decided Saturday morning to add another fun factor. I left my Garmin on the nightstand and went for a run.

Ahhh! I felt free! I ran until I felt like walking. Then I walked a for about a minute and continued on my way. I turned off on a side street I had never ventured down before. Then I stopped at another lilac bush and drank in the scent. By the time I got home, thoughts were whirling in my head.

What if I run my Sunday morning 10k race without my Garmin? How nice would that be? Heck – I could stop and smell the lilacs for the Lilac 10k!

So I did. When I headed out the door Sunday, I left my Garmin behind. A few running pals saw I was sans watch and offered to tell me the pace as we ran.

“No need,” I responded. “I’m going without a watch.”

“What?!” Running pal Ray answered. “No. That’s nuts. That would drive me crazy.”

Normally it would drive me mad as well. But not this week!

We reached Highland Park early since much of our group was running the 5k AND the 10k. Since I registered for the race Tuesday, I was fine running a mere 6.2 miles through Rochester and adjacent suburb Brighton. While the others ran, several of us explored lilac hill.

Soon enough, the rest of the crew was back and we lined up to race. Much of our group ran as part of Team Red, White and Blue, a group running to raise support and awareness for our veterans.

Meet Mike, team organizer, who ran Sunday with an American flag.

I took off with Traci and Ray. And boy was the crowd thick! We weaved and bobbed for the first mile. Lots of people were running the popular 10k! Soon enough, we turned our first corner and hit our stride. Ray found his rhythm and pulled away. About a mile later, Traci moved ahead as well.

I cheered them along and settled in for my second half of the course, I ran through neighborhoods, up and down hills and smiled at cheering residents and fans. I thanked officers and volunteers as I ran along he course.

Soon enough, I rounded my last turn, pushed myself up a hill and set my sights on the finish line.

I spotted the clock as I crossed in the Low 59s. Instinctively, I looked at my wrist for my own time. Ha! No watch!

Overall, the experiment was a success. Yes, I started out too fast by keeping up with Ray. But would I have done the same if I’d worn my watch? Probably. Would knowing my pace change my race plan? Doubtful.

But I led the event and I actually liked not knowing how I fared. It was sort of like playing the lottery.

Last night, I finally looked up my race time – 58.16 – which over a minute slower than my 10K PR. I was completely fine with my showing and loved running naked.

I will admit, I don’t plan to run without my Garmin for a big race, but running naked was a nice change of pace.

From left: Katie, Traci, Ray, Vic and Aaron post-race.

Have you run without a watch or Garmin recently? Are you a slave to your pacesetter? What’s the silliest things you’ve done mid-run? Tell us in the comments!

Runners – they’re everywhere!

May 18, 2013 by Meridith

While at Kohl’s this morning, I saw a guy in a Broad Street Run shirt. Naturally, I had to approach him.

I mean, right? This is natural. Everyone does this. And if you don’t, you totally should. (Similar to the runner’s wave. If you don’t know about it, check out Ashley at RatherBeRunnin’s post.)

Approaching other runners while in a non-running setting can be a bit tricky.

Bound: Bounding up to them like a puppy off-leash for the first time is an option, but the potential to scare them off is high. I usually only bound if I know the person and they are already well aware of my brand of crazy.

Direct approach: Less scary than the Bound for the recipient. Simply walk up a person and say “Love the Broad Street Run – it was my first time running this year. Have you run it more than once?”

Sidle: The word sidle is a bit off-putting because I always picture a shady person in a trench coat sliding up next to you and offering some illegal substance.

However, in this case, it’s running and so it takes on a more casual, less Shady McShadester connotation.

Find them in an aisle. Ideally, aim for one that’s not, like, underwear or Imodium. “So, hey, I see you were at Broad Street on May 5^th. Funnily enough, so was I.” (As were 39,998 others. It’s actually not that rare – I’ve seen three people wearing these shirts in the past three days.)

Mutual wearing: The best is when you’re wearing the same shirt at the same time and place. Serendipitous!

There’s that mutual recognition: you both look at the other person’s shirt, look down at your own shirt and then say something witty like “Nice shirt, where’d you get it?”

It’s absolutely glorious.

During an event: Okay, so this is a bit different because obviously at race events, you’re going to see race shirts of races past. However, I got super excited (it doesn’t take much, you’ve probably figured this out by now) during Broad Street when I saw a cheering guy on the median wearing one of these:

I felt like he was there specifically for me. As I got my high five from him I yelled out something like “Yeah, AC April Fools!” Because I’m limited to four or five word sentences while I’m running. But we totally would have been besties were I not in the middle of a race. I’m sure of it.

When I was younger, my mom talked to everyone. At the supermarket (aka the “stupidmarket” as we so brilliantly called it) she chatted it up with the people at the deli counter, in the aisles, on the checkout line – everyone. I was mortified. Do you know that person? “No,” she’d reply more often than not. “I’m just being friendly.”

Pooks is not nearly as timid as I was when I was a kid; when I approach a runner and he’s with me, he’ll chime in with his thoughts. As we walk away, he always asks if I knew the person. And I can say, with great authority, “Well, of course! We ran a race together.”

Am I missing any ways to approach a runner? Have any fun stories to share?

Scootadoot

fitness, food, friends, fun