Some March Runfessions

March 30, 2018 by 36 Comments

It’s the last Friday of the month which means it’s time for some soul (or is that sole?) cleansing. Marcia has opened the runfessional and I’ve got some runfessing to do, so let’s get to it, shall we?

If you’ve been around here for a while then you know that I’ve been spinning myself in knots over the idea of which marathon to run this fall. I runfess that while I really wanted to run Marine Corps, I was starting to psyched myself out over the whole “beat the bridge” time thing, and had stated to rationalize picking another marathon. And, after doing some research I was prepared to announce that I was going to run the Hartford Marathon.

But then the reminder for MCM lottery registration I’d set up in my phone months ago, popped up the other day. I runfess that instead of deleting it, I kept hitting the snooze. I may have also ventured out to the MCM site a couple of times, but was too intimidated to enter.

I runfess that as I was talking to my brother about my decision to not even enter the MCM lottery, something didn’t feel right. I didn’t like the fact that I was shying away from the potential challenge of running MCM. Wasn’t my one word for the year “Brave”?

I runfess that I went back to the MCM site and threw my name into the lottery not long before it closed. “It isn’t like I’ll get in – lots of people apply.” I was still rationalizing, but I also knew I couldn’t just not apply. You can see where this is going right?

I got in! What?! Yep – this appeared in my mailbox on Wednesday morning!

I runfess that I’m both excited and terrified! I had always said if I ever decide to run a marathon I wanted to run Marine Corps – well it sounds like the universe was listening cause I’m MCM-bound! Oorah!

Tell me, what are you runfessing?

I’m also joining Rachel and Lacey & Meranda for the Friday Five link-up!

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Filed Under: Friday Five, Marine Corps Marathon, Runfessions

Runfessions for February

February 23, 2018 by 32 Comments

It’s the last Friday of the month which means it’s time for some soul (or is that sole?) cleansing. Marcia has opened the runfessional so let’s get to it!

I runfess that being stubborn and trying to power through being sick was not my best choice. I was kind of in a bit of denial about sick. Sometimes you need to let go of plans and “must do’s” and just rest!

I runfess that I’m both disappointed and a little worried that I’m going to go into Black Cat undertrained. It’s my first race of the year and I had really wanted to kick things off strong, but two weeks off from running threw a wrench in those plans. Now it becomes a TRB (training run with benefits) and I’ll focus on training for a strong run at the Portland 10 Miler in April.

I runfess that my eating habits have been a bit of a mess lately. When I first got sick I dropped 5 lbs in a couple of days – not ideal but that’s what happens when you live on green tea, water, and soup. As I emerged from my flu fog, I fell into eating whatever felt comforting…yeah no good. I need to start paying attention again.

The Runfessional is open and I've got some #runfessions to share! #fridayfive #runchat Click To Tweet

I runfess that I’m growing tired of Mother Nature’s twisted sense of humor. We had glorious 70-degree weather on Tuesday and Wednesday, only for it to snow yesterday and colder temps have returned. This weather whiplash has gone on all month, and I have to say if I wasn’t over the winter before I sure am now. I have no desire to bundle up again now that I’ve broken out my running skirts – bring on spring!

Weather whiplash!

I runfess that I still haven’t settled on a fall marathon. I’ve talked myself in and out of each of my 3 options, but am having a hard time choosing. I’m waiting for divine inspiration…or for the MCM lottery to open, whichever comes first.

I’m also joining Rachel and Lacey & Meranda for the Friday Five link-up!

So how was your month? Anything you want to come clean on?

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Filed Under: Friday Five, Runfessions

Catching Up Over Coffee

February 2, 2018 by 51 Comments

These past few days (weeks!) have been a blur – time for a quick catch up over coffee.

If we were having coffee, I’d tell you that I’m declaring February my “do over” month. High hopes of getting out the gates fast on a number of things to start the year were derailed by being sick. The creeping crud has finally vacated our house and in it’s a wake is an over-flowing to do list!

If we were having coffee, I’d tell you that February is already off to a great start with the email I got yesterday inviting me back for my second year as a Skirt Sports Ambassador Captain! I absolutely love this company – not just for their cute and comfy clothes, but also for the positive community they foster among women. Their positive vibe and mission to encourage all women to push past their perceived limits really connects with me and I am looking forward to sharing the Skirt love again this year!

If we were having coffee, I’d tell you that the college outreach to my oldest son has begun and I’m so not ready to think about it! There are daily mailings and email solicitations pouring in and meanwhile, I’m thinking were we not just celebrating him starting Kindergarten?! Someone please make the clock slow down!

If we were having coffee, I’d tell you that I’m feeling the need to shake up my strength workouts a bit. I felt like I was making the most progress when I was working with a trainer so I’m on the hunt to find a new strength coach – unfortunately I’m now wowed by any of the trainers on staff at my gym so I’ve got to scout out other alternatives.

If we were having coffee, I’d tell you that I cannot wait for the Super Bowl and a chance to see my Patriots bring home another Lombardi trophy! I think the whole 2-week build up is just too much – I’m looking forward to less talk and just playing!

(Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

So what would you tell me over coffee? Do you work with a trainer or do your own thing? Are you planning to watch the game?

I’m linking up with Coco and Deborah for the Ultimate Coffee Date.

I’m also linking up with Meranda, Lacey, and Rachel for the Friday Five.

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Filed Under: #REALwomenmove, #skirtsports, Friday Five, Patriots, Skirt Sports Ambassador, Ultimate coffee date

Five Tips for Winter Hydration

January 19, 2018 by 47 Comments

Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in winter of 2016, and has been updated.

As I’ve made losing a few pounds and refocusing on proper nutrition one of my goals for this year, I’ve been taking a close look at where I’ve been slacking. One clear area I need to pay better attention to is my water intake. I find without the heat and humidity of the warmer seasons I can easily let my hydration slip.

Cold Weather Challenges

Staying properly hydrated should be a priority every day, regardless of the season. In the winter, while you may not be contending with soaring temps, you are dealing with dry air – both outdoors and indoors – forcing your body to work hard to humidify the air you breathe, while at the same time, your skin is zapped of its natural moisture. Research shows that you feel 40 percent less thirsty in cold weather thanks to the constriction of blood vessels as your body works to keep your core warm. Maintaining your core temp takes priority over fluid balance, and your body is fooled into thinking it’s properly hydrated. So waiting until you feel thirsty could be too late – you’re probably already dehydrated.

Did you know that dehydration can lead to both brain fog, muscle cramps, and fatigue? Dehydration can also increase the risk of hypothermia and frostbite when exercising outside – no bueno!

So here are some quick tips for staying hydrated this winter:

Carry water during workouts — Stating the obvious here, but I’m still surprised at the number of people I’ve spotted in the gym lately working up a good sweat, but no water bottle in sight. While my runs right now are short enough to avoid carrying a water bottle, if you’re prepping for an early spring marathon or half marathon, you’re going to need to bring water on those long runs.

Keep a water bottle front & center — I keep a water bottle or glass on my desk during the workday. But, if you’re like me and sometimes get too wrapped up in what you’re doing and forgetting to refill, then consider using a water bottle with a time marker.  I’ve been using this Hydr-8 Water Bottle  (Amazon affiliate link!) to help keep me on track- I love that I can take it easily from my desk to my car.

Eat your fluids — Use soups to help boost your hydration in addition to keeping up your intake of water-rich fruits and veggies.

Make it a morning ritual — Many people wake up dehydrated, so start your day off downing a glass of water before you reach for your coffee.

Dress up your water — If straight-up water bores you, try adding fruit, cucumbers or mint to your water.

herb-infused-water-jars

Sharing 5 tips for staying hydrated this winter #fitlife #fitness #running Click To Tweet

I’m linking up with Meranda, Lacey, and Rachel for the Friday Five.

 

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Filed Under: Friday Five, hydration

5 Things for January Coffee

January 5, 2018 by 43 Comments

It’s time once again for a little catch up over coffee!

Didn’t we just do this? I swear it sometimes hard to keep track of how fast the days are moving. I’m linking up with Coco and Deborah for the Ultimate Coffee Date, so grab a mug of your fave hot beverage and let’s chat.

If we were having coffee, I’d tell you that the holidays were a little bittersweet for us as my father-in-law passed away peacefully on Christmas Day. He was a true gentleman with a quick smile and kind word for everyone. His passions were his family, skiing, sailing, and painting and I hope to be doing as much as he was when I reach 92! I’m so grateful that we all got to spend time with him over Thanksgiving and my husband got in one more trip just before Christmas Eve.

If we were having coffee, I’d tell you that thanks to the Bomb Cyclone (really who comes up with this stuff?!) it’s been tough to get back into the swing of a regular routine. The kids started back to school on Tuesday, only to be home Thursday and Friday thanks to blizzard conditions. I love a good “snow day” but I have a sinking feeling Monday morning re-entry is going to be tough!

If we were having coffee, I’d tell you that my husband, brother and I are doing Run the Edge‘s “Run This Year” challenge. While I don’t set annual mileage goals, I think doing this as a team will be fun! My brother’s planning on some Spartan races and my husband J will be doing trail races so I think 2,018 miles collectively is totally doable – and I’m sure there will be some serious trash talking between the 3 of us over who’s logging the most 🙂

A fun medal for 2,108 miles!

If we were having coffee, I’d tell you that since sharing my running goals, I’ve become a little obsessed with trying to decide which marathon to run this fall. I’m itching to get my race calendar settled but want to select the marathon first and then build around it.

And, speaking of goals, if we were having coffee, I’d tell you that I have no shortage of house projects I want to take on for this year. At the top of the list is purging from top to bottom and clearing out all of the stuff we’re not using. It was clear to me as I was struggling to come up with gift ideas for both J and the kids that we really don’t need any more stuff – and that in fact, we could stand to shed some things. So, starting this month I’m going room by room – and dragging my family along kicking and screaming…wish me luck!

What would you tell me over coffee? Got a marathon suggestion? Did you get hit by the Bomb Cyclone?

I’m also linking up with Meranda, Lacey, and Rachel for the Friday Five.

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Filed Under: #RunThisYear, clutter clean out, Friday Five, Ultimate coffee date

5 tips for planning your 2018 race calendar

December 15, 2017 by 32 Comments

So many races and so little time! Does Anyone else feel this way?

With just weeks to go until the new year, have you started mapping out your race schedule? Today I’m sharing a few tips for planning your 2018 race calendar.

Start with your goal race — Do you have one big goal race for the year? Typically, I’ve picked a goal half marathon for the spring and another for the fall. Once you get the key race or races figured out, you can fill in from there, adding tune-up races or other shorter distance events that could line-up nicely with your training plans.

Think about your training preferences — Do you loathe the idea of heavy mileage in the summer heat? Then perhaps an October race is not for you. Not a fan of winter running or having to log long miles on the ‘mill to avoid snow…then maybe you want to pass on those early spring races.

Consider all impact events — Family/friends weddings, major school events for the kids, etc. You’ll want to make sure you don’t pick your goal race for the same weekend as a major family gathering (I’ve already got Columbus Day weekend blocked off for my nephew’s wedding). Or, perhaps you don’t want to be at the peak of marathon training on a weekend you need to be out of town.

Let’s talk budget — We all know race registrations can get pricey so, of course, your budget has to be part of the planning process. Are you hoping to do some traveling next year or are you staying local? Going big or sticking with smaller, more affordable races? Keeping an eye out for race discount codes and great airline and hotel deals can help defray the costs of a racecation, but planning well in advance is key. Early registration will always save you some cash, so the earlier you can commit the better.

Know your body — It can be pretty easy to get caught up in race fever and want to “run all the races” – especially when it feels like everyone you follow on social media is running a particular race. But it is important to know your body and factor in the downtime it needs. Breaks from racing and training are important to keep you from burning out both mentally and physically – so plan accordingly.

Planning tips for your 2018 race calendar #runchat #bibchat #running Click To Tweet

I’m joining Rachel and Lacey & Meranda for the Friday Five link-up!

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Filed Under: Friday Five, race calendar

2017 Gift Guide for Runners

December 1, 2017 by 27 Comments

This week’s Friday Five theme is “Gift Giving” so it seemed like the perfect time to share my annual gift guide for runners!

Sharing some gift ideas for the runners in your life! #runchat #runnersgifts Click To Tweet

Skirt Sports  – Well let’s dive in with one of my favorite apparel companies, Skirt Sports. I love the philosophy of this company and it doesn’t hurt that they make great clothing in such fun patterns. I have to admit I’ve become a little obsessed 🙂 Use code FALL20WIN for 20% off (expires 12/31/17).

a very small sample of my collection

Stride Box –  I’ve mentioned my love of StrideBox many times here. StrideBox offers a great combination of food/fuel options, running gear, and body care. And, at just $15 per month, Stridebox subscriptions make a great gift that can be enjoyed for many months to come! Code RunAttitude10 will save 10% off 3- and 6- month subscriptions (expires 12/24/17).

Knuckle Lights – These were on my personal wish list last year and lucky for me Santa was listening! I love the on-hand design and that these lights are rechargeable. They’re lightweight and slide easily over gloves in winter months.  Perfect for running or walking the dog!

Use code RUNNINGWITHATTITUDE and save 10% (expires 1/31/18).

Trigger Wheel – The RPI Trigger Wheel (affiliate link!) has been a lifesaver for me since I picked one up at last year’s R’n’R Vegas expo. It is perfect for those small muscles that you can’t quite get to easily with a foam roller.

SPIbelt – SPIbelt has been with me since my earliest days of running. I love that it’s lightweight, doesn’t bounce, and holds my phone and other essentials.

And with toggles for clipping on your bib, it’s a must-have when racing! (The Hydration Belt in this pic sees a lot of use during the summer months).

 

Use code michelle2017 to save 15% (expires 12/31/17)

Momentum Wraps – This is one on my wish list! I have a couple and just love the motivating messages they offer. They make a great stocking stuffer!

Yeah ok.. so that was 6 items instead of 5 😉

I’m linking up with Rachel and Lacey & Meranda for the Friday Five link-up!

What’s on your wish list this year?

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Filed Under: #StrideBox, Friday Five, Gifts for runners, holiday cheer, Skirt Sports, SPIbelt

Runfessions of an Injured Runner

October 27, 2017 by 38 Comments

Well, here we are again on the last Friday of the month, which means it’s time to cleanse our soles (pun intended) with some runfessions. So let’s get to it, shall we?

Sharing some #runfessions of an injured runner! #FridayFive #Runfessions #Runchat Click To Tweet

I runfess that I am not loving running right now…there I said it. As long as my runs stay 5 miles or less, and at an easy peasy pace, all the body parts cooperate and it’s all good. But add miles or really push the pace, and I’m gritting my teeth – no bueno.

Unfortunately, my hip pain has returned with a vengeance and has left me on non-speaking terms with my training plan. I runfess that this cycle of injuries I’ve been dealing with this year (hip then ankle, now hip again) has been exacerbated by my pushing to get back to training too soon.

I runfess that it’s hard to sit on the sidelines while others are preparing for races – FOMO is a powerful thing…the struggle is real!

I runfess that if I am being totally honest, I’ve probably known for a while that I was pushing my luck with this training plan, but how could I possibly not have a fall goal race…ah denial!

While I’m not usually one to throw a pity party, I runfess that I’ve had a moment or two over the past month where I have asked myself if I should give up running. Now, of course, that didn’t last very long – it’s just the frustration talking.

I am certainly not going to stop running. I am going to back-off of following a training plan, put racing on the back burner, focus on a treatment plan for this SI Joint, and embrace my time in the gym, on a yoga mat, and the short leisurely runs I can do (I’ll take 3 or 4 miles vs none!).

So what are you run-fessing?

I’m linking up with Marcia for Runfessions, and Rachel and Lacey & Meranda for the Friday Five link-up!

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Filed Under: Friday Five, injuries, Runfessions

September Runfessions

September 29, 2017 by 23 Comments

It’s the last Friday of September (what?!?) so it’s time to join Marcia for some runfession fun!

While I really enjoyed the experience of meeting up with the other SS ambassadors at the Wicked Half, I run-fess that the race itself left me feeling meh! The course was open to traffic (I’m never a fan) and while the police were great at managing the major intersections, the course had no cones or other markers to let drivers even know there was a race going on. Cars often got a little too close for comfort and I saw many runners moving to the sidewalks vs. dealing with running next to cars.

I run-fess that I doubt that this is a race I’ll be running again.

I recently got all fired up about the fact that I need to do a better job about my nutrition. I run-fess that I bought this a couple of weeks ago and have yet to crack the seal on it! (Going to change that this weekend)

I run-fess that it is a pet peeve of mine when runners can’t be bothered with acknowledging other runners. There’s one woman I see on my runs quite often and she never gives a nod, wave, eye contact…nothing. I’ve seen her do it to other runners too so I don’t take it personally – but I do think she could make even the smallest effort.

I run-fess that while I’m not trying to look past my November half marathon, I’m already eyeing 2018.  I’m feeling the need to take on a new challenge – the what?… I’m not sure yet.

It's the end of the month and time for some runfessions! #FridayFive #runchat Click To Tweet

What are you run-fessing?

I’m also joining Rachel and Lacey & Meranda for the Friday Five link-up!

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Filed Under: Friday Five, Runfessions

5 goals for September

September 8, 2017 by 34 Comments

I figure before this month gets any older I better map out a few goals for the month.

Run 80 miles (at least) — I’d really like to hit 100 this month, but given my ankle’s unpredictable nature I’m hedging my bets a bit.

Re-establish my morning routine — Towards the end of the summer, my workouts were all over the place, essentially jamming them in when I could. I know I’m much better off when I get my workouts done early so that’s the goal.

Return to continuous running — Run:walk intervals have served me well in both dealing with the crazy humidity of this past summer and the cranky ankle, but I’d really like to transition back to continuous running.

Improve my fueling — I could do better here – both pre- and post-run.

Focus on self-care — This comes in many forms…daily rolling, yoga, sports massage, getting more sleep!

Sharing some goals for September for this week's #FridayFive What have you got planned? Click To Tweet

What are your goals for this month?

I’m joining Rachel and Lacey & Meranda for the Friday Five link-up!

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Filed Under: Friday Five, goals