tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52838520257447178992024-02-18T22:12:43.818-07:00Why I RunJenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12870882429676385594noreply@blogger.comBlogger259125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283852025744717899.post-67941344485575053072013-02-08T09:54:00.002-07:002013-02-08T09:54:51.459-07:00Winners of Vi Endurance and a winter trail run<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
First: the winners of the Vi Endurance gels: RunKatie, Susette, and Jeff Gallup! E-mail me your addresses and I'll get the info to Vi Endurance! Congrats! You will love them. </div>
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I got to go to Salt Lake and run with my brother last Saturday. We ran 12.5 miles with about 8 miles of trail. The thing I love about my trails (little traffic) means that they're unrunable during the winter. However, in Salt Lake, the trails get used a lot and are packed down well so it makes running the trails great. It was a good test for my ankle which did well. We did have a time where we lost track of the trail for a bit and tracked through some knee deep snow but otherwise it was great! And even trudging through the snow was fun. I had so much fun with my brother and it felt good to have a great run!</div>
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His wife made us banana nut pancakes afterwards with strawberries and eggs. That may have been one of my highlights of the day!</div>
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Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12870882429676385594noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283852025744717899.post-2344529500559908332013-01-31T17:13:00.005-07:002013-01-31T17:13:45.528-07:00Vi Endurance Gel Giveaway<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Let's talk about gels, shall we?</div>
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I am really picky about how I fuel while running. I've just had too many bad experiences with nausea, throwing up, and worse. My stomach doesn't do well with most gels. I've tried almost every kind out there and found one brand that I can stomach. Well... now I can say there are two kinds. <div>
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I was lucky enough to be able to try <a href="http://viendurance.com/"><span style="color: #660000;">Vi Endurance</span></a> gels the past couple of months. And while I've tried them on a few long runs, I've also tested them on an empty stomach before an intense spin class, and on a couple of 3-4 hour hikes, and a couple of snow shoeing treks. </div>
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My biggest complaint with previous gels has been 3 fold. First: the taste. Some taste like frosting. Some flavors just taste fake. You know the ones. Mostly vanilla. Second: the texture. Some are super runny, which I favor over the super thick ones: again akin to frosting. Or worse, gritty. And third: the digestibility. I vividly remember after my first marathon being completely sick to my stomach and spending the rest of the day in the bathroom. Yes, the feeling of accomplishment was all worth it. But I knew I didn't want to feel that way again. I experimented with several gels quickly figuring out that I have a sensitive stomach and just can't do most gels. I even ran a marathon with no gels. Yeah, it's no wonder my first marathon was my fastest to date. So if a gel is good on my stomach, I will gladly sacrifice taste and texture. Fortunately, with<span style="color: #660000;"> <a href="http://viendurance.com/"><span style="color: #660000;">Vi Endurance</span></a> </span>gels I don't have to compromise on any of the afore mentioned criteria. <br /><br />
<a href="http://viendurance.com/"><span style="color: #660000;">Vi Endurance</span></a> gels are made by endurance athletes. Their "lab coats are tech shirts and running shorts." Each of these three friends are ultra runners. They have tested them in harsh conditions. And every ingredient serves a purpose. <br />
My favorite of all the features of these gels is the taste. They are just good. The chocolate flavor is my favorite. It tastes like an expensive dark chocolate. Not like overly sweetened frosting. It tastes gourmet. Every flavor does. The vanilla tastes like real. Like vanilla bean. Think ice cream flavors. It's the difference between plain grocery store brand vanilla ice cream and vanilla bean ice cream. And the peach cobbler. Oh man. I live in Peach City USA. We have a celebration each fall around peaches. And peach cobbler is a favorite dessert of mine. This gel is extraordinarily close to the real thing. Flavor is a big deal to me. <br />
The viscosity is perfect. Not too runny so that it runs down your hand as you open it. And not too thick so that you're gagging it down. It's just right. Yes, I sound like Goldilocks, I know. But it's true. It's just right and it's because of the ingredients. They use coconut oil. And it's not just for the viscosity, but it is a fat that is used by the body as a carbohydrate. It goes straight to the liver and doesn't require energy to be absorbed. It also helps with the brain fog issue late in the game where simple math and general thinking becomes difficult. <br />
And lastly: the digestibility. This is the main reason I was willing to try these gels. Every single ingredient is made to be easily digested. These people know firsthand why that is so important. Go <a href="http://viendurance.com/t/viadvantages"><span style="color: #660000;">here</span></a> to read more about the science behind this. One thing I want to note is that each gel has caffeine. I am generally against using a caffeinated gel each time I fuel, but they state that the amount of caffeine in each gel is used purely as a digestive aid. If you want the caffeine high you need to get it from some other source. I also like how they point out that caffeine can cause frequent urination, diarrhea, and loss of essential electrolytes. These guys really know their stuff.<br />
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These gels make my tummy happy.</div>
I've shared my gels with my brother and a few friends. Everyone has said the same thing. They love them. <br />
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Now on to the best part. <a href="http://viendurance.com/"><span style="color: #660000;">Vi Endurance</span></a> is going to give you the chance to win a case of these gels for yourself. That's 24 gels. And 3 of you get to win one. <br />
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Leave a comment here and then visit their<span style="color: #660000;"> <a href="http://www.facebook.com/viendurance"><span style="color: #660000;">Facebook page</span></a> </span>and like it. Then come back and leave another comment for doing that. Post the contest on your blog or Facebook page and leave another comment. 3 possible entries!<br />
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Good luck! And for everyone else, I'll have a coupon code for 20% off next week. Contest goes through Wednesday. Spread the word!</div>
Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12870882429676385594noreply@blogger.com47tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283852025744717899.post-36958582101074952902013-01-21T10:16:00.000-07:002013-01-21T10:16:15.914-07:00Saying good bye There are moments when your life changes without notice and you are forever changed. There are times when your life is going to change, you have the foresight, and you can plan for these changes. Such has it been with the events in my life as of late. My life has been forever changed. I knew it was going to happen and as such took time to prepare for it. But as I found last Wednesday, you can never fully prepare yourself for major changes in life. <br />
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We got family pictures taken. I was pleased with how they turned out and can't believe how grown up our family looks.</div>
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My son, Justin and I took several hikes together. I will treasure those times for the rest of my life. We talked and hiked and struggled and saw sights. Golden times really.</div>
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He shared with me places that are special to him.</div>
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This old sheepherder's cabin at the top of a mountain. We saw a moose on that trip and several bald eagles.</div>
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His dad and I took several hikes in the mountain behind our house at least once a week.</div>
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He took me to a couple of mines. One hike in particular was extremely steep. It was the hardest hike I have ever been on in my life. It started to snow right as we got down. We were lucky to go on that day because the snow hasn't stopped since then and we wouldn't have had another day to go.</div>
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These are the remains of the old hotel that used to be up by the mine at the turn of the 1900's.</div>
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I really dislike small dark places and so it was a miracle that I went in as far as we did. I humored him though and we were in there for about 10 minutes.</div>
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And then last Wednesday we took him to the Missionary Training Center. It was a very emotional day. The car ride there was very quiet. I kept thinking back to the day I brought him home from the hospital. I thought about the days of him learning to talk and walk and him going to school. He has grown into such a fine young man. And so it is with very mixed emotions that I am proud of the man he has grown into. I have wanted this for him his whole life. It's what we do as parents. We raise them to be independent and successful. And yet the sadness that I experienced as he walked away was so consuming. I was not prepared for it. </div>
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Running has provided me with a way to run off some of the anxiety. Running alone has been good for me to think clearly and running with my closest friends has allowed me time to sort out my emotions and be able to express them. How grateful I am for running and the sense of relief that it has brought to me.<br />
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Later this week: a giveaway that you won't want to miss! Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12870882429676385594noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283852025744717899.post-18491539479060992272012-12-10T07:52:00.001-07:002012-12-20T21:34:47.992-07:00What I've learned while being injuredTis better to have run and gotten injured than to have never run at all. <br />
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When people ask about my most recent accidental injury, my ankle sprain, and I tell them that I did it on a trail, most people say that's why they are afraid to run trails. There have been a few days during this period of not running that I have cursed that leaf covered, rock and root ridden trail. But mostly, I've been o.k. When I think back on this year and the places I've been, the views I've seen, and the people I've been with, I can't help but just be grateful to have been there and experienced it all. I've been to the tops of mountains, gained perspective, and strengthened relationships through it all. I wouldn't trade that for the 4 weeks that I couldn't run. It's been an amazing year. <br />
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During those 4 weeks I snowshoed with my husband going further up the canyon than we did last year. It was absolutely gorgeous and just what I needed that day.<br />
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I've hiked with my son to places he's talked about for years. I'm soaking up every last minute that I can with him. He's going to be leaving for Santiago Chile in 40 days for 2 years. He's decided to serve a mission for our church and I couldn't be happier about his decision except that I'm going to miss him so much. These hikes together are precious time and I wouldn't trade that for all the running weeks in the year.<br />
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I've focussed on my yoga a bit more and am loving it the more I do it. I joined an Instagram challenge to do a pose a day and photograph it. It's really helped me see what my body is doing and ways I can improve. It's also been fun to be creative and get my kids involved. My name on Instagram is Runnerjen1 if you want to follow me.<br />
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I don't like being injured. No one does. But I didn't go crazy this time. I knew I could find things that would keep me active and my mind busy until I could run again. And I am back to running. My ankle isn't 100% yet but it is still improving each day, even on the days I run. I'm working on strengthening it still and getting full mobility back. I also got into the second round of the Ogden Marathon in May and have that to look forward to again. <br />
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Being injured also gives time for reflection. I know some people look for excuses not to run. I know that some think I'm crazy for loving to run. This injury gave me cause to pause and reflect on really why I run. Cycling is not the same. Swimming is not the same. I decided that while it's so many reasons: my sanity, the physical challenge, ability to eat junk... I think one of the biggest reasons why I run is to be out in nature. The trails are where my heart longs to be. It's where I belong. I love the perspective change from the top of the mountain. I love the silence. I love the constantly changing scenery. I love being in trees. I love rocks. I love rivers. And if I have to risk a scraped knee, a banged up toe or another sprained ankle to be there, I will willing go.<br />
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What about you? <br />
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What is your number one reason to run?<br />
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Oh, and I've run out of photo storage on blogger. Time to make some decisions. Advice?Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12870882429676385594noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283852025744717899.post-72880773938149673052012-11-12T16:50:00.000-07:002012-11-12T16:50:43.246-07:00The Case Against Ice-Why Inflammation Can Be Good<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Let me begin by stating the fact that I am not a physician or have any sort of medical training whatsoever. This post is purely my opinion based on careful thought and observation. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Now that we have that disclaimer out of the way we can get down to my latest crazy talk. I'm sure this won't surprise anyone who knows me. I ran barefoot to relearn how to run naturally. I don't believe in arch supports or cushioning to the chagrin of my multiple doctors. I quit using anti-inflammitories last year for my arthritis because of <a href="http://camilleherron.com/2011/05/11/overcoming-stress-fractures/"><span style="color: purple;">this</span></a> article. I have chickens roaming my backyard. Half of my backyard is a vegetable garden. I have 2 beehives. I had a Ron Paul sign in my front yard for most of the year. So I'm not exactly what you would call normal. But I don't think I'm really crazy either. Maybe I just think about things too much. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Shortly after I rolled my ankle and the swelling was spreading from the outside of my ankle to the inside of my ankle and the top of my foot, I was sitting on the couch with an ice pack. And I got to thinking. Why does the body inflame the part that's been injured? I knew it had something to do with increased blood flow and fluid, but why exactly does it do that? And more importantly, why do we try to stop it? We are repeated told to RICE (rest, ice, compress, and elevate) and to take copious amounts of vitamin I (ibuprofen).What are we trying to fight here? So I did what any person would do and googled it. (Dr. Google and I are pretty tight.) I found pretty much the same answer every place I looked. Here's an example:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">A localized protective response elicited by injury or destruction of tissues, which serves to destroy, dilute, or wall off both the injurious agent and the injured tissue. adj., </span><i style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">adj</i><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;"> inflam´matory. </span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">The classic signs of inflammation are </span><i style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">heat, redness, swelling, pain,</i><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;"> and </span><i style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">loss of function.</i><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;"> These are manifestations of the physiologic changes that occur during the inflammatory process. The three major components of this process are (1) changes in the caliber of blood vessels and the rate of blood flow through them (hemodynamic changes); (2) increased capillary permeability; and (3) leukocytic exudation.</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;" /><i style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">Hemodynamic changes</i><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;"> begin soon after injury and progress at varying rates, according to the extent of injury. They start with dilation of the arterioles and the opening of new capillaries and venular beds in the area. This causes an accelerated flow of blood, accounting for the signs of heat and redness. Next follows </span><i style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">increased permeability</i><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;"> of the microcirculation, which permits leakage of protein-rich fluid out of small blood vessels and into the extravascular fluid compartment, accounting for the inflammatory edema.</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;" /><i style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">Leukocytic exudation</i><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;"> occurs in the following sequence. First, the </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; font-variant: small-caps; text-align: left;"><a href="http://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/leukocyte" style="color: #645e7d;">leukocytes</a></span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;"> move to the endothelial lining of the small blood vessels (</span><i style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">margination</i><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">) and line the endothelium in a tightly packed formation (</span><i style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">pavementing</i><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">). Eventually, these leukocytes move through the endothelial spaces and escape into the extravascular space (</span><i style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">emigration</i><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">). Once they are outside the blood vessels they are free to move and, by </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; font-variant: small-caps; text-align: left;"><a href="http://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/chemotaxis" style="color: #645e7d;">chemotaxis</a></span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">, are drawn to the site of injury. Accumulations of</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; font-variant: small-caps; text-align: left;"><a href="http://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/neutrophil" style="color: #645e7d;">neutrophils</a></span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;"> and </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; font-variant: small-caps; text-align: left;"><a href="http://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/macrophage" style="color: #645e7d;">macrophages</a></span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;"> at the area of inflammation act to neutralize foreign particles by </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; font-variant: small-caps; text-align: left;"><a href="http://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/phagocyte" style="color: #645e7d;">phagocytosis</a></span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">.</span></span><br />
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A less complicated explanation is this:<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">Inflammation is the body's attempt at self-protection; the aim being to remove harmful stimuli, including damaged cells, irritants, or pathogens - and begin the healing process</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">. When something harmful or irritating affects a part of our body, there is a biological response to try to remove it, the signs and symptoms of inflammation, specifically acute inflammation, show that the body is trying to heal itself. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">So after reading those explanations of inflammation, I </span><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">wondered why we try so hard to fight this response from our bodies to try and heal itself. Maybe inflammation is good. Yes, it causes pain and we don't like pain. But what if pain is good? Like the kind of pain that protects you from injuring it further, from overextending it. We try to fight pain, but maybe we shouldn't as much. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">After the explanations was this list of treatments:</span></span></span></div>
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<li style="padding: 1px 0px;"><b>Ice</b> is the best treatment.</li>
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<li style="padding: 1px 0px;">Applying ice to the injury will help decrease pain.</li>
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<li style="padding: 1px 0px;">Ice counteracts the increased blood flow to the injured area.</li>
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<li style="padding: 1px 0px;">It reduces swelling, redness, and warmth.</li>
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<li style="padding: 1px 0px;">Applied soon after the injury, ice prevents much of the inflammation from developing.</li>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">I don't want to confuse acute inflammation with chronic inflammation that destroys healthy cells such as in Crohn's disease, asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, or ulcers. I understand that kind of inflammation is not good. But after an injury or any kind of trauma to the body, it seems that inflammation is just trying to help our bodies recover faster. Why are we trying to fight the bodies response to bring blood in, and take the bad stuff out? Is the main reason to fight pain?</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 20px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #333333;">Check out this study by neuroscientists at the Lerner Research Institute at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio. </span><a href="http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/203538.php"><span style="color: purple;">The title: Inflammation helps to heal wounds- Surprise Discovery.</span></a></span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #333333;">And check out </span><a href="http://www.mobilitywod.com/2012/08/people-weve-got-to-stop-icing-we-were-wrong-sooo-wrong.html"><span style="color: purple;">this blog post by MobilityWOD</span></a><span style="color: #333333;"> about why he is convinced icing is bad and will become a thing of the past.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">After thinking and doing some research, I quit icing. In fact I only iced twice. My swelling is almost gone. And boy did it swell and bruise. The bruising is almost gone as well. I'm not limping anymore, although I think I'm still a ways from being able to run again. Going down stairs and sitting cross legged is still painful. I did go to the doc and have an x-ray taken to see if I had broken anything. I didn't. And I disobeyed my doctor when he told me to ice it and take Celebrex. Whether not icing has actually helped or hinded my healing is yet to be seen. But I like the idea of bucking the system especially when it makes sense to me. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">What do you think?</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Wouldn't you love an excuse to quit taking those ice baths?</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Do you have a good answer to my questions? </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Do I just not understand this stuff correctly?</span></span>Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12870882429676385594noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283852025744717899.post-10662543828179663892012-11-05T13:11:00.003-07:002012-11-05T13:11:58.750-07:00I hate unhappy endingsAlternate titles: Life sucks, Not again, Clumsy Idiot, Hidden Dangers Under Leaves, Trail Running is Dangerous...<br />
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I'm the kind of girl that likes a happy ending. Especially in movies. If you can't get a happy ending in a movie, there is no point in watching it. There are enough unhappy endings in real life that I won't pay money to see that in a movie! <br />
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I had a glorious running week. I was pretty sore from the half last Saturday so Monday I just hiked 4 miles with a friend and really enjoyed myself. Tuesday I ran some of fastest 6 miles ever and loved every minute of it. </div>
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Wednesday I ran again and had a fall snow globe moment. Really, it was magical. The sun was just coming up over the mountain, the tall line of poplar trees lining the streets were lit up from the sun making their yellow leaves absolutely shine. </div>
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Then a stiff breeze came along and the loose leaves from the trees started raining down on me. I stopped in my tracks, looked up, and took the moment in and drank it deep. The wind swirled the leaves on the ground all around me and it was really one of those magical moments that never would have happened if I wouldn't have stepped out the door that day. </div>
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I had a smile on my face for the rest of the day. Funny how something so small made me so happy. Thursday I went to spin class and Friday I rested anticipating a long run with my brother the next day.</div>
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Saturday started early in Mantua with an Eagle Scout and his crew building new trail on the mountain bike/hiking trail that our city is building. </div>
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He had quite a group there and they made such good progress. We're in the trees now and it's beautiful. </div>
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The view isn't bad either!</div>
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I ran home, ate a snack, and my brother arrived. We headed to the canyon that I love and couldn't wait to share with him. <br />
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We decided to take the White Rock loop which is about 10 miles. Only we ran it backwards from the only other time I've ran it, so I was questioning myself the whole way until I finally figured it out. We climbed to the top of the big rock at the half way mark and enjoyed the view. </div>
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I really love running with my brother. He really tolerates a lot from me. He doesn't complain when I have to walk or when I stop every couple of feet to pick up or look at a cool rock. (I found one that looked like gold that I brought home to Logan! It was very cool!) After about 8 miles and on our way back, we were booking down the trail pretty quick. The thing about trail running on leaves is that you can't really tell what's underneath. I roll my ankles often and it never hurts. I kind of pride myself in having strong ankles especially after last year. But as I rounded a corner a little too fast, I twisted and rolled my ankle and it stopped me in my tracks. After a few minutes I walked it off and it seemed o.k. And I started running again but slower. Pretty soon we were back to normal when I hit something else and that same ankle just collapsed. I went down. It was some pretty brutal pain, enough to make me cry a bit although the cramp in my abs as I went down was almost worse. I had my brother help me get up so that I could stretch out the ab cramp and then get my bearings. It really hurt. I couldn't put full pressure on it. But I didn't hear it pop either. We made our way down slowly the rest of the mile or so that we had left. I was bummed but not devastated. </div>
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I've done most of the traditional stuff like elevating it, resting it as much as possible, wearing my compression socks, soaking it in an Epsom salt solution, and even taking a Celebrex. I did ice it the first day for about 20 minutes but have decided that I'm not doing that anymore. I've come to the conclusion that inflammation can be good. It might hurt, but isn't it the body's defense system kicking in to help it heal? I've also been ultra sounding it twice a day. I got that little handy dandy machine this last winter to help heal my stress fracture. I really think it works. My cankle is pretty nasty. It is bluish in areas and the swelling has just sort of moved around to the inside of my ankle as well as the outside and onto the top of my foot. It still hurts and I probably will go get it checked out, but I'm hoping that it won't be long until it's back to normal. But since I've never done this before I'm not sure how long it will take to heal? Anyone out there with similar experiences? </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of these things is not like the other. Sunday.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Monday morning</td></tr>
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Until then, I got my bike back downstairs and as soon as I can wear that shoe for more than 10 minutes I'll be back on it for as long as I can stand it. I also can concentrate more on lifting my upper body as well. I guess being injured earlier this year has taught me that it's not the end of the world and I can find things that I can do in the meantime. </div>
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I do have to say that things are just not lining up for me the way I thought they would. I had this plan to do the Grand Slam this year and really get good at the marathon. I got on the website and it's already sold out. I entered the Ogden Marathon lottery and didn't get in. Although I know there's still hope, it just seems like my plans are not working out. I just started a new training schedule last week. Is there a pause button? Time to come up with a new plan and hope for a happy ending. </div>
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Oh, and if you come up with a clever alternate title for my post, please share. I could use a good laugh about now!</div>
Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12870882429676385594noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283852025744717899.post-12405919869643563392012-10-31T08:06:00.001-06:002012-10-31T08:06:10.599-06:00Syracuse Harvest Half 2012 Heather and I decided sometime during the week that we would run a half marathon that is not too far away from home. I haven't run long for over 6 weeks and I was starting to really crave it. It was going to be a fun run with dressing up and slow times and a good chance to catch up. Basically a long run like old times. With costumes. Good times.<br />
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I brought back my spider costume from last year hoping again that the extra legs would help me run faster. Didn't work again! I don't know why. My husband actually couldn't believe that I was going to wear that thing for 13 miles. It didn't end up being that bad.</div>
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It was a really cold morning. Like in the 20's. We sat in her car until right before the start. But as soon as the sun came out, it warmed right up and I even got a little too warm with nothing I could shed. It was a pretty flat course with some little inclines and declines. Overall though there was elevation gain in this course. It is not a PR course for sure. It really did feel like old times and running out west. It was beautiful and much needed.</div>
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We took our time taking self portraits, then having some nice guy stop and take our picture, running across the bridge one at a time, and a very long potty break.</div>
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Overall, I shouldn't be surprised that our time was 2:26. But I was a little disappointed. We did pass 13 people in the last mile and no one passed us, so that was good. But I didn't feel like I was taking it THAT easy!</div>
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They served root beer in a finishers mug and had lots of good after race snacks. And the shirt was nice. Overall, it was a good long run with my best friend and a great day.</div>
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Now if my calves were not sore it would be perfect.</div>
Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12870882429676385594noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283852025744717899.post-2853002237650097532012-10-29T08:15:00.003-06:002012-10-29T08:15:24.337-06:00Winner of Roo Sport Giveaway!<br />
<h2 style="background-color: white; color: #6f6fc4; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 1.8em; font-weight: normal;">
Random Integer Generator</h2>
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<h2 style="color: #6f6fc4; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 1.8em; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
Random Integer Generator</h2>
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Here are your random numbers:</div>
<pre class="data" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: 2em;">25
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Timestamp: 2012-10-29 14:11:16 UTC</div>
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Congratulation to Penny at Pink Hat Runner! You are the winner of the <a href="https://vp104.infusionsoft.com/go/roohome/jenpacker"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Roo Sport</span></a>! Get me your info by e-mail and I'll get them to send it right out to you! I know you're going to love it. <br />
If you didn't win but still want to get one, go <a href="https://vp104.infusionsoft.com/go/rooorder/jenpacker"><span style="color: #b45f06;">here to purchase</span></a>. It really is a great product!Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12870882429676385594noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283852025744717899.post-23984538585293841722012-10-26T11:12:00.003-06:002012-10-26T11:12:58.005-06:00A Change in the Seasons of Weather and Life<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If you haven't already entered the <a href="http://jenintraining.blogspot.com/2012/10/roo-sport-review-and-giveaway.html"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Roo Sport giveaway...check it out here!</span></a></div>
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I always like a cold snap and even a little snow in October. It is a gentle reminder that the sunny, bright days of fall are not going to last forever and winter is coming. And I've been looking forward to getting out on the trail when it snows to see what it looked like. So this week before it snowed at the house (which it has now) it snowed in the mountains and it got pretty low so I decided to go check it out.</div>
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Even though the leaves are fading, the colors are still gorgeous.</div>
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On the plus side the lower part of the creek now had water running in it again. I love the peaceful sound of running water, especially when it runs over rocks and logs and such.</div>
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We've been blessed with an extended fall it seems this year and I'm trying to soak it all in.</div>
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The leaves cushioned the trail's hard bits and though they're not crunchy because they were so wet, they were a joy to run on top of. </div>
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It was about 1,000 ft. up to get to the snow. I figured it would be before the 2 mile mark which was where I was planning on turning around.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimu_DWiY_Na8KoSm41z3g82A91VQibsDfVHY79IsPRr4Q843LlSFSSEVBaZvOpU2N98Z9n8OtYKR0jYFqcDH7BpadDwI9ZHxx9r1ALsLW6IosTIE3c61vgwh8sMQrIQ6hju9pnNoUakw/s1600/IMG_5881.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimu_DWiY_Na8KoSm41z3g82A91VQibsDfVHY79IsPRr4Q843LlSFSSEVBaZvOpU2N98Z9n8OtYKR0jYFqcDH7BpadDwI9ZHxx9r1ALsLW6IosTIE3c61vgwh8sMQrIQ6hju9pnNoUakw/s640/IMG_5881.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Signs of snow started to appear along the sides of the trail.</div>
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These next two photos are my favorite and had me thinking for the rest of the day. They show beautifully the transition of fall to winter. A changing of the guard. At first I just thought about how much I love living in a place where there are four distinct seasons. Just when I get tired of the extreme heat of summer, fall comes to bring relief. When I'm tired of the snow, the buds on the trees signify that a bright change is on it's way. And I like this little warning of snow that change is again in the air.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjkB6ArQiuAEPKdQCI-WCXBzRDwFDicWGnR61VrNP8C_8sWa5yxuIItdLtIzBTOCtxF9bW0WMZwpppQLVU8LzkX1jWC4Q0xNLeTvWWttQSr7n66fxIssGo7O9GALiH95Y02zeIfjx5dA/s1600/IMG_5892.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjkB6ArQiuAEPKdQCI-WCXBzRDwFDicWGnR61VrNP8C_8sWa5yxuIItdLtIzBTOCtxF9bW0WMZwpppQLVU8LzkX1jWC4Q0xNLeTvWWttQSr7n66fxIssGo7O9GALiH95Y02zeIfjx5dA/s640/IMG_5892.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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I ran for a while in the snow, smiling and enjoying the peaceful quiet that seems to come with the snow. It's as if it insulates the world for a time. There were still birds chirping and small animals hurrying to get out of my way, but it was silent, alone and peaceful. At the turnaround spot I stopped for a couple of minutes and closed my eyes and just listened. It was almost magical.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhniRIDVwlnXr6y1TWRriobltB4zauBnK5spkSC2jmjSro2rOgC4ooZqiXV-D9A_DFIAzCBBrzdvBoDvQW5zv4S2w9dfYEVpI072pRDCWDPNMa_SKDv57x1P0wHI7mpbHs1S-B2IQoWYw/s1600/IMG_5896.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhniRIDVwlnXr6y1TWRriobltB4zauBnK5spkSC2jmjSro2rOgC4ooZqiXV-D9A_DFIAzCBBrzdvBoDvQW5zv4S2w9dfYEVpI072pRDCWDPNMa_SKDv57x1P0wHI7mpbHs1S-B2IQoWYw/s640/IMG_5896.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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This was another favorite spot where the tiniest breeze caused the snow in the trees to lose a bit of their dusting and it swirled through the air all around me. Like I said, magical.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZOvCFYv8HvZnf62NorJZMeEbp6XVo3IZjQvXCYstl1kf9RDbts9AIOfXImMusUd2YlhdF-rHRuJrP0bWGQhzUQo6JcG8WhXEm6DIyejMZt1OAnvuYac_zQMgVMqbTLf8-xoB9NsY70Q/s1600/IMG_5902.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZOvCFYv8HvZnf62NorJZMeEbp6XVo3IZjQvXCYstl1kf9RDbts9AIOfXImMusUd2YlhdF-rHRuJrP0bWGQhzUQo6JcG8WhXEm6DIyejMZt1OAnvuYac_zQMgVMqbTLf8-xoB9NsY70Q/s640/IMG_5902.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The sun peeking through the clouds was definitely another highlight.</div>
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On the way back down I couldn't help but think about seasons in our lives. I'm in a really great season of life right now. But like that part in the trail, I can catch a glimpse of another season just ahead. My kids are still all at home. They're all pretty independent. They all sleep through the night. They're all potty trained. They're all in school. Soon another season will come that will include letting go. Not as much control, grandkids (although I know that one's a ways off ;) ) and expanding our family with in-laws. While I'm sure that season will be great too, I'm just really trying to enjoy the awesome season that I am in right now. Running really teaches me unexpected lessons and makes me think about things in a different light. And it never ceases to amaze me either. If someone would have told me even 10 years ago that I would be seeking out snow to run in, I would have called them crazy. But here I am and loving every second of it.</div>
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Any lessons you want to share with me you've learned or thought about while running?</div>
Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12870882429676385594noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283852025744717899.post-35449015433273901132012-10-23T15:42:00.002-06:002012-10-24T21:56:35.994-06:00Roo Sport (The Perfect Runner's Pocket) Review and GiveawayIf you've been running for a while, I would bet that you have gadgets. Whether it's a GPS watch or non cotton shirts or running tights or compression gear, I would bet that you have invested money into this sport beyond just shoes. And I would bet that you carry your phone with you. And if you don't, you wish that you easily could. I use my phone as my camera, GPS tracker, and for music. And just for safety reasons I like to have it with me. Sure, some of my clothes have good pockets, the ones that are secured with a zipper and that don't bounce, but truthfully not many of them function very well. I first got a Spi belt thinking that it would be great to store a bunch of stuff in. And it really does expand to fit a lot. However, it bounced. It didn't matter how tight I tightened that thing, it bounced. And it bugged me. I moved to the i Fitness belt and found that I loved it. No bouncing and it held everything nicely. But it was still a belt and vainly I didn't like to wear it. It made me look fat. And it made me sweat more all around it. There was always the pain of trying to adjust it so that it fit nicely over my clothes and not under them and on just the right place. I opted for not wearing it on daily runs and saved it for during races. But it's really not smart to run without my phone. And I'm usually wishing that I had it when I come upon some great scenery. I bet you've been in a similar situation. So, like in most inventive cases, someone had the same problem and solved it. Meet <a href="https://vp104.infusionsoft.com/go/roohome/jenpacker"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Roo Sport</span></a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3FeSkzLmmCq7Wtg2PUKxCbSNAI8b07tjSdWf5oLVxTJ8QGtQ_NRTOSbHRS0UWbNBXa13kg38h6WVXAlXPV7rLGDqZM2fafxWVl98ftsyB1lv4udlmOzolAThOvJw-wWHft-wxAOTNIw/s1600/IMG_5443.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3FeSkzLmmCq7Wtg2PUKxCbSNAI8b07tjSdWf5oLVxTJ8QGtQ_NRTOSbHRS0UWbNBXa13kg38h6WVXAlXPV7rLGDqZM2fafxWVl98ftsyB1lv4udlmOzolAThOvJw-wWHft-wxAOTNIw/s400/IMG_5443.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Created by Brenda, a 25 time marathoner and super sewer. She was approached by a friend who asked her to sew something up for an upcoming marathon to hold all the necessities. A couple of years later and the real Roo Sport was born. It really is brilliant. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can see I'm wearing it during a 5K a couple weeks ago.</td></tr>
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The inner pocket that is secured with velcro is made from a water resistant nylon. It is the perfect size that fits my iPhone or any other smart phone. It has a place to plug in my earphones and is easily accessible. The back pocket is made of lycra and stretches to hold keys, money, gels or anything else and is secured with a zipper.<br />
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The whole little pocket then simply snaps in place with two really powerful magnets to the waistband of your shorts. I've worn it both in front and in back and the really amazing thing is that it doesn't move and I forget it's even there. Since I received the<a href="https://vp104.infusionsoft.com/go/roohome/jenpacker"><span style="color: #b45f06;"> Roo Sport</span></a>, I have worn it pretty much every single time I've been running. And I love it. Love it. <br />
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Here's my little secret. I haven't worn it just for running. I went to the store last week and didn't bring my purse. I put my debit card in the zippered pocket and my phone in the other and left. I did my shopping and didn't quite know what to do with my arm that is usually dragging with my big heavy purse. There was no putting the purse in the cart and then not being able to walk away from it. I felt free. It was awesome. And no one could tell that I had my money and my phone right there in that magical little pocket. It got me thinking about traveling. If I was going on a trip and especially out of the country, I'd be sure to take my Roo Sport. What a great place to put all your important things and not worry about them being stolen. Hey, it would even be great at a place like Disneyland. Really, the possibilities are endless.<br />
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My only constructive criticism would be to make it more waterproof. I know that it's water resistant, but there is still some condensation on my phone after a long run. I know I could put it in a baggie, but I don't want to. That makes it even harder for taking pictures. And it really could be just a tad bigger. It fits my new iPhone 5 with the headphone jack, but it takes some adjusting the cord. Other than that, it's brilliant. Just brilliant. <br />
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Now the great part. Roo Sport is willing to give one to a lucky reader. Here's the catch. You have to report how you like it if you win; on your blog, Facebook, or twitter when you're done trying it out. You get an entry for each task you do. Please leave a separate comment back here for each one. <br />
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*Like <span style="color: orange;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/roosport"><span style="color: orange;">Roo Sport on Facebook</span></a> </span>and leave them a comment saying that Jen sent you over to check them out.<br />
*Follow them on <a href="http://twitter.com/theroosport/"><span style="color: orange;">Twitter</span></a><br />
*Follow my blog or tell me if you already do.<br />
*Leave a comment telling me if you carry your phone with you on your runs, why, and how you do it.<br />
*Go to <a href="https://vp104.infusionsoft.com/go/roohome/jenpacker"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Roo Sport</span></a> and enter your name and e-mail under the weekly contest on their header for another chance to win a Roo Sport pocket.<br />
*Re-post on your blog, Facebook, or Twitter sending to them my blog for a chance to win.<br />
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Giveaway ends Saturday October 27th and the winner will be announced on Monday October 29th! Good luck!<br />
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If you just can't wait to try it you can <a href="https://vp104.infusionsoft.com/go/rooorder/jenpacker"><span style="color: #b45f06;">order one here</span></a> for $19.99 I would bet that it will be some of the best and possibly the least amount money you've spent on running gear. They will also be at the Provo Halloween Half this weekend.Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12870882429676385594noreply@blogger.com58tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283852025744717899.post-46194937501357749872012-10-19T10:28:00.000-06:002012-10-19T10:28:04.372-06:00Sharing what we love with those we loveI was reading in Kristen Armstrong's book "Mile Markers" this morning. It became one of my favorite books after just reading the first chapter. In fact I'm reading it slowly. Savoring each chapter. I felt like so much of what she was saying was an echo of things I've thought and said and written. It rang so true and I felt like she was an old friend. Weird. I know. But it's no different than when I feel like I "know" some of you so well through your blogs. It's funny how when we share things with each other we become connected. Which brings me back to what I read that got me thinking. She had just finished writing about an experience with her kids when she says this, "I have a lump in my throat just sharing this with you. I almost didn't want to write about it, because I thought that somehow putting it out there might diminish the intimacy of the experience. Or that it might lose some sparkle if I tried to translate it. Some personally significant things are best kept personal. But in the end I decided that like crossing over the bridge together, the best memories of all are the ones you can share." I can't count the times I have felt like this. Times that I've felt like I've done a disservice to the memory because I can't put into words the extraordinary way it makes me feel. But in the end I'm always glad that I've taken time to document it and at least try to express myself. Why do we do this? Why do we feel the need to share? Why do we Facebook, Blog, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, or e-mail? Is it some narcissistic need to leave a part of us behind with the rest of the world? Is it to feel important? To feel like we're winning the popularity contest with the most "likes" or comments? Maybe part of it is, if we're honest. But deep down, I like to think that when we share things with the world, with those we love and those we don't even know, that we're just trying to share a little of the joy that we feel. Be it through nature or family or the freedom of running. We are happy and want to share a bit of that joy with the world. We hope to inspire them to feel the same joy. <br />
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A couple of days ago I took my kids to the trail that I've been running on so that they could see the autumn colors. It was a little piece of heaven. It made my heart fill to overflowing to watch them having as much fun on that trail as I do.<br />
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They were skipping and running in the stop and go fashion that kids do on the roller coaster hills, hiking with hands on hips on the steep uphills, and literally flying on the downhills. The giggling was contagious. <br />
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The youngest had his bag to collect leaves and we stopped by the running water to listen and watch it falls down the rocks and look for fish.<br />
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It was the perfect afternoon. And I realized that while running on that trail makes me smile and brings me joy, it's not until I share it that my joy overflows. <br />
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<span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">So I am thankful to Mel for showing me this trail and I'm thankful that I get to share it with those I love. I think that's part of the reason I have loved running with my brother this year. It's so great to see him enjoy running and trails. It's something we have in common and something we can enjoy without having to explain it. I think it's part of the reason this blogging community is so great. We can share what we love without trying to hard to explain why, because we all just get it. </span></div>
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I shared this trail with Heather a while ago and recently shared it with Jodi. We had a great time marveling at all the vibrant colors that we really weren't paying attention to the steep inclines and slow paced miles. It was a great morning. It's great how those shared times with friends are the ones that stick in my mind so well. I not only remember the sights ands sounds and smells better, but the feelings that accompany them are locked in place. I love running alone, but I sure love running with friends and sharing in their joys as well. Running really is such a raw and emotionally charged activity. I think that's part of the reason I love it so much.<br />
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<br />Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12870882429676385594noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283852025744717899.post-18940580044814440472012-10-16T13:46:00.001-06:002012-10-16T14:11:00.300-06:00Color Vibe Ogden 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Sometimes you just gotta let loose, get together with some good friends, and have fun! That was the whole point of this run for me. I really wasn't sure what to expect going into a <a href="http://www.thecolorvibe.com/"><span style="color: magenta;">The Color Vibe </span></a>Run. When I was describing it to people I felt a little stupid by saying that you dress in white and then people throw colored cornstarch at you. Doesn't that sound like fun? We decided to make some tutus to make it even more fun. Last minute Heather texted me and said that she had a blond wig she was thinking about wearing. It sounded like a riot to me so I ran to Shop Ko about 8 the night before and picked one up. Good thing it's Halloween time. I texted the other girls and it was set. </div>
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Cyn, <a href="http://rnhplus8.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: lime;">Heather</span></a>, me, <a href="http://achillesme.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: blue;">Mel</span></a>, <a href="http://jodibeacon.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: purple;">Jodi</span></a>, and <a href="http://thoughtsfromafrazzledmind.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: magenta;">Audrey</span></a></div>
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It was chilly Saturday morning, but not too bad. The autumn leaves were gorgeous on the mountainside behind us. We got our sunglasses that were included with our t-shirt and readied ourselves for the start. We went in waves to space out the runners a bit. We were in the first wave and although we said we were running for fun, it still felt like we were moving along at a good pace. Especially considering the hills. Man were there some hills. We came upon the color stations one at a time, spread throughout the 3.1 miles and got blasted with color at each one.</div>
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The real fun began after the race was over. There was a DJ and some great music for the big dance party that was happening. We were covered with color but because it was layered it didn't have a well balanced look anymore. Not to worry. At the end each person got a small packet of color and gathered into the crowd and on the count of 3 everyone released their color packet. There were also big boxes of color that you could grab a handful or two of and let go into the air. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my wig started having wardrobe malfunctions at this point. My roots were really showing. Side note: I do not look good as a blond. But I see how they really do have more fun!</td></tr>
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I am pretty sure that I burned just as many calories dancing around at the after party as I did during the run. My kids would have died from embarrassment at the way their mother was acting. Which was exactly what I needed.</div>
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We hung around dancing for about an hour afterwards and had a blast!</div>
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My favorite picture of the whole day!</div>
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I would do this again in a heart beat! One great thing about the <a href="http://www.thecolorvibe.com/"><span style="color: magenta;">Color Vibe series</span></a> is that they give you free photo downloads that they take at the race. Of course we needed to have more pictures than just that, but still, I think it's a nice touch. Also, all kids under 7 were allowed to run for free. It also benefits a local charity. In this case they were giving money to an elementary school for their physical education program!<br />
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So what are you waiting for?!! Click on that link and find one near you! Check out their <a href="http://www.facebook.com/colorvibe?fref=ts"><span style="color: magenta;">Facebook</span></a> page too for more photos!</div>
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My tips for doing a color run would be:<br />
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1. As you go through the color stations get as close to the people throwing as possible. It was surprising how much color blew off just by running. A direct hit produced the best color.</div>
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2. Hold your breath or at least close your mouth when they throw it at you. I didn't do this once and had a colorful mouth for a bit. It's just cornstarch so it won't hurt you, but it doesn't taste really good.</div>
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3. The sunglasses that were included were a great idea. Protected the eyes and just looked cool.</div>
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4. I noticed that the parts of my shirt that were sweaty kept the color on longer. So if it was warm and not October, I'd consider spraying down parts of my shirt right before the run so that it would stick better.</div>
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5. Bring a towel to put on your seats for on the way home.</div>
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Not knowing what to expect, I would have to say that it was so much more fun than I thought it would be. I had been looking forward to it, but I had no idea what a great time I would have. I'm sure it had something to do with the company I was with, but the music and the vibrant colors and acting like a kid again had to be the best part!</div>
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Anyone else done a color run? </div>
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<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=5283852025744717899" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=5283852025744717899" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">T</a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=5283852025744717899" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=5283852025744717899" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=5283852025744717899" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=5283852025744717899" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a>What tips would you add to mine?</div>
Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12870882429676385594noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283852025744717899.post-36369170359156570632012-10-10T10:09:00.000-06:002012-10-10T10:34:23.605-06:00Fall running<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Fall is such a great time to get outside and run. The mornings and evenings are cool and crisp and the days still sunny and warm. Autumn is my favorite season for so many reasons.</div>
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I love the sound of crunching leaves underfoot. I love kicking through them while running. I love the smells of dirt and rotting leaves. I know it doesn't sound good but it really is!</div>
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The colors of fall are simply amazing. I have trouble staying away from the trails this time of year.</div>
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I took my husband out for a run last week in the evening and we both had a great time. It got really chilly towards the end but it was just a good excuse to get hot chocolate afterwards.</div>
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Saturday was another 5K race to benefit the local women and children's shelter. It's where I got my PR last year. It's a good course and I was hopeful to maybe match it.</div>
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It was also the first hat and gloves run of the year. </div>
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me, Jodi, and Heather </div>
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me and Jodi after the race</div>
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They changed the route slightly from last year and I'd like to say that's why I didn't get a PR again. But I'm sure that's not it. I just wasn't feeling it last last week. I didn't feel like dry heaving again and didn't push it until the last mile. 25:38 was my time. Ten seconds longer than the week before. Still good enough for 1st in my age division. It's funny that it wasn't really satisfying. </div>
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One of the things I love about going to races is the vastly different people that are there. I like to people watch. Shoes are one of my favorite things to look at and it just happened that two very different shoes were right next to each other. I don't judge. I say, go with what works for you. It's just interesting. </div>
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Coming up: A color run for me this Saturday. Tutu is made and ready!</div>
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A review and giveaway next week of a great new product! You're gonna want to come back for this one!</div>
Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12870882429676385594noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283852025744717899.post-79507789361183823342012-10-01T15:17:00.002-06:002012-10-01T15:17:58.433-06:00Time for some fun on the trails, winning a 5K, and an upcoming color runAfter all the long trail runs this summer, which I have LOVED, I have been feeling a little burned out on running long. So my runs lately have been shorter. The intensity is still there, but I just don't feel like going on a long run. And I have felt the pressure, that only I put on myself, come off. As such I've really been enjoying myself. I've still spent time on the trails and the fall beauty that is there for a few short weeks is spectacular. In fact, I'm going to be sad when the color has faded because it is so gorgeous right now. There are still trails I want to go on and I hope to get there before the color is all gone.<br />
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I also had a really fun time this weekend doing a local 5K for charity. One of the really fun parts was that I won. Yep, you read that right. I took 1st place in the women's division and 6th place overall. Mostly it was fun waiting for my kids to ask me if I won (because they always do...) and then answering to the affirmative. That was great seeing the looks on their faces. I am fully aware that this will never happen again and that it's only because the real racers were not there, but it was still kind of fun. 25:28. Not even my best time, but it was kind of a tough course and I felt like I was pushing it pretty much the whole time. There may have even been some dry heaving during the last 1/2 mile. But I thought I might be the first woman and didn't want to lose my spot. So I pushed it and just about puked. Like I said, fun. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my goodies. score! Best one...1lb. of Mrs. Cavenaugh's chocolate. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jodi took first in her age division. </td></tr>
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I also really cleaned up in the raffle winning a bunch of stuff worth around $90 not including my case of toilet paper that I won for 1st place. Totally practical and even my favorite brand.<br />
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So what's next? There's another 5K this weekend and then the next weekend a bunch of friends and I are going to do a <a href="http://www.thecolorvibe.com/ogden.php"><span style="color: #660000;">color run</span></a>. So...we're making white tutus and wearing some funky knee socks and I'd like to find some 80's style sunglasses. Plus, with a great group of friends, I know that we'll have a blast and come away very colorful! Come join me if you can! <br />
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What's on your race calendar? <br />
Any big races coming up? <br />
Ever done a color run before? <br />
Any tips for me?Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12870882429676385594noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283852025744717899.post-64256136729537626712012-09-27T09:51:00.000-06:002012-09-27T09:51:50.653-06:00The most important life lessons- Embracing the Suck yet again<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Sometimes life gets in the way of regular posting and reading. And I realize that it's o.k. But every time I have sat down to write something it just seems trivial and unimportant. While I try to separate my real life and my running lives into two different blogs, sometimes they mesh together. Really, isn't that the whole point though, to take lessons I learn while running and apply them to real life? That's what I'm trying to do everyday. Few things teach me more life lessons than running. So bear with me while I share some really personal experiences that have happened the last weeks and then maybe I'll be able to write again about the trivial things in life.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It takes a tragedy sometimes, to make you realize what's really important in life. It's not that we don't really already know what's important. It's just that it gets hidden and disguised by the busyness of everyday life. My sister in law <a href="http://jonmandi.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #660000;">Mandi and her husband Jon</span></a> had a beautiful baby girl 2 months ago. It was a normal pregnancy. We were all thrilled for her. I remember just days before she had her that we talked about names and decor of the baby room. It was also fun because another sister in law JaNae was also pregnant due about a month after. I love all my nieces and nephews and love getting to hold them as newborns and watch them grow up. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">They knew right away that things were not right when little Scarlet was born. She had trouble breathing on her own and couldn't swallow by herself. But as the weeks went by and test after test was done, other things were discovered that were wrong and she wasn't getting better. They transferred her to Primary Children's Hospital and almost immediately they had a diagnosis. It wasn't good. It was extremely rare and degenerative. She was never coming home. While we were sad, Mandi and Jon continued to amaze us and inspire us with their strength and faith. And little Scarlet had a presence. Boy, did her spirit radiate goodness, purity, and love.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Last week we got the news that the doctors had told them it was time. Time to take their little baby off of everything keeping her alive. I was shocked. I didn't think it would come so soon. And while little Scarlet was fading, things were not going to get better. Only worse. I could not imagine what they must be going through. How do you make the decision to basically end your child's life? How do you sit and hold your baby waiting for her to die? I cried. A lot. Mostly for Mandi and Jon and what they were going through. And not being able to do anything to relieve their suffering. I've known Mandi since she was 12 years old. I watched her grow up. I watched her go through high school. I watched her date losers. And I watched her absolutely blossom when she married Jon. She is one of the most beautiful people I know. Both inside and out. It hurt to see her look so tired; physically, mentally, and emotionally. But spiritually, she was strong. I knew they were going to be o.k. No matter what they faced, they were going to be o.k. together.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Last Wednesday little Scarlet passed away. It was heartbreaking. Everything in my thoughts revolved around them. Running became a time to cry alone behind my sunglasses. Then and in the shower. The tears were always there just under the surface. Someone asked me about her when I was picking up the kids from ballet the day after she died and to my surprise I started sobbing. It was unexpected that it was so close. I was just so heartbroken. I hugged my children a little tighter. I savored each touch, each whisper, each "I love you". Mandi never got to hear her little girl even cry. She never heard her laugh. Her arms were never wrapped around her neck. And while all of this is beyond sad, I have great faith that the time will come when Mandi will hold her baby in her arms again. I know that she will raise her and she will be her daughter forever. I believe that her little body will be made perfect in the resurrection. I believe that God is fair and just and all things will be made right in the eternities. All experiences here will work together for our good. It's hard to see now because we don't have the whole picture laid out in front of us. But He knows. He knows what challenges we need to grow. Without this knowledge, I don't know if I would ever be able to be truly happy again. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">For a while now I've adopted Mike's mantra of <a href="http://www.seemikerun.ca/2011/04/learning-to-walk.html"><span style="color: #660000;">Embrace the Suck</span></a>. It simply means that instead of looking for the easy way, I'm going to look for hard things in my life and then embrace them. <span style="color: #660000;"> <span style="color: #660000;"><a href="http://jenintraining.blogspot.com/2012/01/embracing-suckagain.html"><span style="color: #660000;">I quoted Jeffrey R. Holland a while ago where he said</span></a>,</span></span> "A life without problems or limitations or challenges - "life without opposition in all things" as Lehi phrased it - would paradoxically but in very fact be less rewarding and less ennobling than one which confronts - even frequently confronts - difficulty and disappointment and sorrow." So instead of avoiding hills, I seek them out and run them. When I had my stress fracture, I tried to embrace that experience and learn from it. And I know that when I do, I grow. It's never easy or fun to go through hard times, but it seems that during those hard times, that is when we grow the most, re evaluate what is really important in our lives, and when we can feel the love of God the most. But only if we open our hearts enough to let Him in. It's easy to see how someone could become bitter and close everyone out. And you could say, rightfully so. It would be easy to never run again because it's too hard. But in both running and in life, if we can learn from the hard times and open our hearts, we will be better for it. We will grow and in turn be able to help others through their hard times. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Kristen Armstrong has a quote that goes along perfectly with this. <span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;">“</span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;">I'm glad to be here right now, poking at my threshold. I want to get more comfortable being uncomfortable. I want to get more confident being uncertain. I don't want to shrink back just because something isn't easy. I want to push back, and make more room in the area between I can't and I can. Maybe that spot is called I will.”</span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;"> And I know that when I get to the place where I have done all I can, that the Lord is there and He will take over. Running for me has been a divinely physical, mental, and spiritual journey. More than any other lesson taught, I have learned that I can do more than I thought I could. And when I feel like I can't take another step, somehow I'm able to. It might be slower than the first but it's still a step. I have felt </span><span style="color: #181818;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">divine help more than once during a run and it translates into the rest of my life. When times are tough, and I want them to be tough, I can keep going. And when I feel like I've taken my last step and I've done all that I can do, He will lift my heavy load and He will carry me. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">While I would never wish for a challenge like my Mandi has behind her and in front of her, I am envious of the love that she feels and the spiritual events that she's witnessed. It's rare that heaven feels so close. And it's only because she has allowed it in. She has embraced the suck in a truly magnificent way. I admire her and Jon so much. They are pillars of strength. They are great examples to me. I hope that when more hard times come my way that I will have learned enough to be like them. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">It got me thinking about hills and doing things that make me uncomfortable while running. You don't have to have an injury or have things happen during a race that are out of your control, to embrace the suck. So how does that apply in real life? I don't think we have to wait for a tragedy or something hard to come along to embrace the suck in life. We all have challenges in life, big and small. I think that by working through those challenges with a smile and with gratitude we are embracing the suck and in turn it makes us stronger and more prepared to handle the big things in life. And like the hills I seek out now, I can sacrifice more of my time to studying, prayer, and service to others. Sacrifice. With a smile. That's embracing the suck in real life. </span></span></div>
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Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12870882429676385594noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283852025744717899.post-83254230122108251262012-09-19T12:14:00.000-06:002012-09-19T12:16:11.670-06:00A 14 mile trail run in Millcreek canyon<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
For a couple of months now my brother has been trying to get me to run down in Salt Lake with him up Millcreek canyon. It has been such a busy summer that I couldn't do it until last weekend. And I'm so glad that I did. It was beautiful. </div>
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We saw 3 lakes while on our run. The weather was perfect, cool and sunny.</div>
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The autumn leaves are starting to come out and we had great views of them.</div>
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This was the wake up call that my body has not completely recovered from the 50K. My calves were tight the whole way up and my body just felt tired. I don't know what I was expecting. I plan on keeping my runs short until everything feels good again. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My brother and me</td></tr>
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I was so excited that Heather got to join us for the run as well. It seems like it's been a while since we've run together and I've missed our time together!</div>
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Hollie, <a href="http://www.fastcory.com/"><span style="color: #660000;">Fast Cory's</span></a> sister also joined us for the run. She's training for her first marathon in a couple of weeks. You can tell she's Cory's sister by her great sense of humor. I enjoyed listening to her tales of pacing Cory during his 100 miler last year. I hope to get to run with her again soon and look forward to hearing all about her first marathon! There's nothing like your first!</div>
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We had run on some pretty technical stuff. Lots of rocks and roots. It felt like an obstacle course a lot of the time. But I was pretty proud of myself for not falling. I'm kind of infamous for tripping and catching myself several times during trail runs and even going down a few times. So after we got on the nice soft dirt covered in pine needles, I must have let down my guard a little. I tripped on a tree root and went down. In my mind it was really graceful. More like a somersault. But in reality, it probably looked like a face plant. I wiped myself off and went on our way.</div>
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About 5 minutes later Heather went down. And being the good friend I am I took her picture before helping her up. :)</div>
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It looked like an enchanted forest much of the time. It was really really beautiful. It was busy though. Especially towards the end. I am used to not seeing a single soul on the trails and we were passing people and their dogs the entire time. Crazy busy.</div>
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As we were on the way home, we stopped for some lunch and it was here that I realized that I still had quite a bit of dirt on my face. No wonder people were asking me if I had fallen. What a day...</div>
Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12870882429676385594noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283852025744717899.post-51402789155325651792012-09-08T22:42:00.000-06:002012-09-10T17:32:31.203-06:00Zensah Compression Socks Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Recovery. That's what this week was all about. I already told you about my ice bath and then Epson salt bath. I foam rolled and used the stick to massage my sore muscles in the car on the way home. And I made sure to eat a mix of protein and carbs to hep my body recover well. </div>
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So it seemed like the perfect time to talk about one of my favorite ways to recover. It's not new. And most of you might already own a pair of these. If not, they are worth the investment. Compression socks. I own 3 different brands of compression socks. So when<span style="color: #660000;"> <a href="http://www.zensah.com/"><span style="color: #660000;">Zensah</span></a></span> asked me to do a review of some of theirs, I was happy to oblige. I already own a pair of their shorts and calf sleeves and LOVE them. So I wondered if these would really be very different than the calf sleeves. I wore them last year during the <a href="http://jenintraining.blogspot.com/2011/06/utah-valley-marathon-2011-7-it-is-what_13.html"><span style="color: #660000;">Utah Valley Marathon</span></a> last year and loved them.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI5WSLWY-BTBTLAx1OnoJn8_JsGY_C22HlrKVdlntNyY76sJGqLlqWs2w0L69MxeBC8Iiun_JAtPJyKA6NM4tQdzLtsU5NVi3j9MwWM6uDPxahMeI5iELfhg_MEkYF1euNsK2D-3jUIw/s1600/IMG_4592.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI5WSLWY-BTBTLAx1OnoJn8_JsGY_C22HlrKVdlntNyY76sJGqLlqWs2w0L69MxeBC8Iiun_JAtPJyKA6NM4tQdzLtsU5NVi3j9MwWM6uDPxahMeI5iELfhg_MEkYF1euNsK2D-3jUIw/s640/IMG_4592.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
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First, I have to say that putting compression gear on is an art. And I feel bad for the men out there, because us ladies have an edge in this department if they've ever put on pantyhose. It takes real skill. In fact, there are <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_OY4GT75JBw"><span style="color: #660000;">You Tube videos</span></a> on how to put these socks on your legs. And if you try to do it like normal socks... let's just say that I want to be there watching you do it for a little chuckle.</div>
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I also have to say that wearing compression gear for an extended period of time is not always comfortable. But I never feel that way about my Zensah products. They are soft and while they are tight, they are not too tight. I wore these all night long and then my calf sleeves the next day under my dress at church. </div>
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Another thing I really liked about the socks was all the room in the toes. I originally bought the calf sleeves because I don't like my feet to feel compressed. Barefoot and minimalist running has only enhanced that feeling and has set my toes free. So I didn't know if I could stand to wear socks again. But I was pleasantly surprised to find that the toes are very roomy and are not tight like they are around my calves and upper feet. Their website explains it better than I do,</div>
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"<span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold;">Zensah compression socks are made up of graduated compression. The greatest amount of compression is at the bottom of the compression socks and as one moves upward, the level of compression decreases. The innovative Zensah compression socks prevent blood from pooling in your feet and help to enhance circulation."</span></div>
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I'm glad to see that besides all the colors of the rainbow, they now have argyle patterns as well. Now they just need to make stripes and polka dots. </div>
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While I did a lot of walking this week and even a little running later in the week, I fee like these socks helped me recover faster than I would have. And it's not the first time I've used them either.</div>
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What tricks do you have to come back faster from hard work outs or races?</div>
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<br />Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12870882429676385594noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283852025744717899.post-41252295369253382012012-09-04T16:19:00.001-06:002012-09-05T15:45:51.192-06:00Grand Teton 50k 2012 Race Report<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I sat at my computer staring at the screen. There was a choice to be made. Marathon or 50K. I chose the 50K. Then I redid it and chose the marathon. I changed it again. I sat and fretted. Finally, I just decided that I was scared to do the 50K and that's what ultimately made me sign up for it. I'm still trying to remember to do things that are scary, hard and things that suck. And not only do them, but to embrace them. So I did it. Afterwards I told my brother what I had done. I didn't think we'd be running together since he's a little speed demon and I AM NOT. But he was thinking that we would be staying together. As the date was getting closer, I talked him into seeing if we could switch him to the 50K. He's never even done a marathon before and he was still game. I love that guy. He's a good strong runner and I knew he could do it. Especially if we just took it slow and enjoyed ourselves.</div>
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Speaking of great guys:<span style="color: #660000;"><a href="http://www.dreamchaserevents.com/About-Us"> Jay Batchen</a></span>, race director, was kind enough to switch him over to the 50K just 3 days before the event with "no additional charge for the extra torture." I can not say enough good things about this race. It was well marked. The volunteers were so friendly and helpful. And the aid stations were the best. The course was set up so that drop bags were easily accessible and if we had known how the course was set up, we would have both just carried water bottles instead of the hydration packs. But I'm starting to get ahead of myself. </div>
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We drove up to Driggs, Idaho for the packet pick up and meeting. I can not lie and say I was comfortable because I was not. I felt out of place and downright nervous. But I picked up our packets and headed for my brother's house where we would be staying. I ate a carb filled dinner of white rice and ramen noodles. I ate that before the Ogden Marathon and it seemed to work well. It's bland, salty, and carb rich. I didn't sleep well at all. I was really nervous and I was wondering what I had gotten myself into. We could see the mountains I'd be climbing from my brother's back window and I was a little sick. My brother, Tom, who was running with me got in late that night and we made our plans for the morning. </div>
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The morning came quickly and we were off to the ski resort. We checked in and sat in the cafe for a few minutes until the pre race meeting. Before we knew it, the time had come and we were lined up for the long day ahead. </div>
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There were 19 runners in the 50K and 13 in the 50 mile race that started at the same time. There were 21 in the marathon and 30 in the 10K. It kind of baffles me as to why this race is not more popular. It's relatively inexpensive as far as races go and the scenery can't be beat. And if you're looking for a challenge, this is it. You should put it on your calendar for next year and we can all have fun together!</div>
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We took off at a slow run and with in a few steps everyone was hiking. The course is set up in 3 loops each ending and beginning at the base aid station. The first loop was Fred's Mountain. It's about 5 miles. It is the steepest part of the course and also the highest point on the course reaching 9,940 ft. We climbed and climbed. There were a few runnable parts that we ran through, but it seemed we had to really catch our breaths after so we just maintained a nice fast hike. There was an especially nice part that seemed like it was straight up. It never seemed to end. And all I could think of was that we had this section to do again at the end of the day.</div>
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We watched the sun come up. It had rained hard the night before and things were a little slippery but it was a super beautiful sight. The temperatures were perfect. Chilly but not too cold. Towards the top it was windy and we were glad to have long sleeves. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">this is not the steepest hill. </td></tr>
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It took us one hour and 5 minutes to reach the top. Some of it was an 18% grade. Steep. After we reached the top and the aid station we refueled and headed down the mountain. It was the first time we really got to run and it felt good to stretch the legs out and take off.</div>
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I could slightly feel my hip on the downhill and right then and there I settled into the peace that I already knew it was going to hurt and I just accepted it. To my surprise, it loosen up and went away, not return for the rest of the day. A strange and beautiful blessing. However, I could feel my quads after the steep descent and knew that I was going to be feeling this run long after the day was over. And I was excited to see what the day would bring. It's an thrilling thing to see what your body is going to do when you are about to push it beyond what you have before.</div>
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Oh, how I loved the aid stations. Everything you could ever want was there. My favorites were the mini snickers and later in the day the coke and dr. pepper. The boiled salted potatoes were really good too. If there was one thing I would do differently it would be to take some of the stuff in the baggies and try to eat it along the way. I felt like we spent a lot of time at the aid stations just trying to choke it down. I ate a fig newton toward the end that took probably 10 minutes. Although I really enjoyed talking to the volunteers. Lesson learned for next time.</div>
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We headed out to the next loop, Mill Creek, which was about 15 miles and was the place where we were most likely to spot wildlife. Bear spray was encouraged for all participants as a couple of bears had been spotted in the area just the day previous. </div>
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I kept looking around and marveling at how gorgeous everything was. One of the ways I convinced my brother to do the 50K was to tell him that we'd be running in the one of the most beautiful places in the world. As long as we were there, why not do 5 more miles! Physical torture is best done in a scenic environment.</div>
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And this was by far the most scenic part of the course and quiet. Nice freshly cut dirt and pine needled trails. The smell was magnificent. The rain really brought out the pine smell. We had great conversation with a guy from North Carolina for a while and just had fun talking to each other. We had a 3 mile uphill stretch up the winding canyon road before it went back on trails and even that went by fast. We played the game of run to a point and then walk to a point. Repeat. </div>
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<span style="text-align: center;"> Towards the middle of this section I had gotten behind in drinking and salt pills and had a nice calf cramp. I could feel the warning signs come out of nowhere and slowed down. But when I tried to run at normal speed again, it cramped. After about a half an hour of hiking and another salt pill, I was able to do a slow jog again and then we were back to normal. I had to really baby that calf though the rest of time and keep on top of hydration. It felt really good coming in to the main aid station again.</span><br />
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The final loop of the 25 miles was Rick's Basin. It had rolling hills for about 5 miles and was also gorgeous. It was in more wide open fields so you could see a few competitors. We were mostly by ourselves for the entire run though. We could also see some pretty dark ominous clouds in the distance that kept building.</div>
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We got back to the main aid station to try and eat something and head back up Fred's Mountain for the second time and the end of our 50K. It was here that I met someone I was secretly hoping to meet. I knew from their website that she helped put this race together with her husband Jay. I got to meet Lisa Smith-Batchen. I really don't get star struck by almost anyone. I've seen a few stars in Jackson over the years and at Park City and never had a desire to get my picture taken with them, but Lisa is different. I watched her in a documentary a long time ago, back in 1999, before I even thought about running, in a movie called Running Under the Sun about the Badwater Ultra Marathon. I marveled back then and marvel more now knowing more of her story. I was honored to be standing next to her and hear her encouraging words as we got ready to head back out for our final loop. And as the thunder and lightning and rain started, she and her volunteers found us a couple of rain jackets to protect us from the cold at the top of the mountain. <span style="color: #660000;"> <span style="color: #660000;"><a href="http://www.dreamchaserevents.com/About-Us/Lisa-Smith-Batchen/">Click here</a> to read more about Lisa and Jay</span>.</span> True humanitarians and all around great people. And they really know how to put on a great race.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lisa Smith-Batchen and me</td></tr>
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Back up the mountain a second time. Final 5 miles. This went by faster than the first time for some weird reason. In fact my body starting feeling good again. Any aching or tight muscles seemed to get back in gear. The only problem I had was on the steep downhills with my left IT band. My brother found that skipping was helping his knee feel better and so I tried it and it worked. We were skipping down the mountain singing zipidy do da. We got down to the not so steep down hill and my IT band stopped hurting and we were able to run the last couple of miles to the finish. It was strange how everything felt good again. I felt like if I didn't have to do anymore steep downhill I could have gone farther. But I was glad to not have to suck down another gel or try to nibble something for an hour!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">view of the Tetons on the way down</td></tr>
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Our families were at the bottom and it was so great to see them. I was really so happy for my brother and so grateful for the experience with him. He really is a tough runner. I felt like we kept each other going during the whole race. I never felt like my spirits were down and had a smile on my face the whole time. 9 hours and 31 minutes. 7400 ft elevation gain. </div>
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Such a great memory, one I'll treasure forever!</div>
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Back at the house, my brother filled up his kiddie pool for us with the coldest water ever. I don't think ice would have even melted.</div>
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I also had a warm Epsom salt bath after and didn't feel too bad. I'm really not as sore as I thought I would be. And I can't wait to do another one!</div>
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<br />Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12870882429676385594noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283852025744717899.post-4378083908488598862012-08-29T14:38:00.001-06:002012-08-29T14:38:57.332-06:00Top of Utah Half Marathon 2012 Race Recap I only pay for 2 or 3 big races a year. With my family situation right now, I have a hard time justifying anymore time or distance or moula. Someday that might change, but probably not anytime soon. And it's kind of a pain having to sign up for races months in advance. Maybe if I was better at checking my schedule I wouldn't have signed up and paid for a half marathon and my trail marathon only a week apart. I debated even running the race knowing that I would have a hard time keeping myself in check. And since my hip has not been 100% since my 18 miler I knew it really wasn't smart. But...I have run this race 4 years in a row. Not running it was going to be hard. Luckily I remembered that one of my friends was running it who finished just behind me last year. I knew if I could stick with her that I wouldn't push myself to that sub 2 half that I've been coveting for so long. So...I texted with her to make sure it would be o.k. and felt much better knowing that I had a plan.<br />
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That morning we waited in line for what seemed like an eternity. The line just never seemed to end. We ended up being on the last bus to the start line. It was perfect timing as it was pretty chilly and I didn't want to freeze just standing around.</div>
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Jodi, me and<span style="color: #660000;"> <a href="http://rnhplus8.blogspot.com/">Heather</a>. </span></div>
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If this picture doesn't show it, it WAS really cold. I knew we'd be glad though as soon as we started running. Truthfully it took about 3 miles to feel my toes and for my hands to warm up. </div>
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It was a great race. I felt great the whole time. I was able to run beside<span style="color: #660000;"> <a href="http://doranjody.blogspot.com/">Jody</a> </span>and Dawn the whole time and just had a great morning. We finished in 2:13 and even though my hip was a little tight, it wasn't bad. And I know it would have been so much worse if I had pushed it. And bonus: Heather got her sub 2 with her husband! I was so happy for her!</div>
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I got to see <span style="color: #660000;"><a href="http://susettefisher.blogspot.com/">Suzette</a> </span>again and run with her for a bit. She is amazing and it was fun to see her again.</div>
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At the end we talked to my idol, Julia McCabe. She's 81. They had to create an age category just for her last year. She started running at the age of 40, ran her first marathon at the age of 49, and has run over 140 marathons. As she says, "it's never too late to start." Seriously cool lady. I want to be like her someday. </div>
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The crew from the neighborhood:</div>
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Cheryl, Josh, Heather, Heather, me, Rob, Jody, Doran, Dawn, and Jodi.</div>
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I live near awesome people.</div>
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Next up: in 3 days I'll be running up and down and up and down a mountain. I'm basically scared out of my mind and more than a little excited. </div>
<br />Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12870882429676385594noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283852025744717899.post-33504728132817109182012-08-13T12:49:00.001-06:002012-08-13T12:49:03.377-06:00Adventures in Trail Running<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I feel like this has been the summer of trail adventures for me. Which has been a wonderful change from my typical routine. I haven't been obsessed with times and races. I've really just been enjoying myself and some beautiful new places to run. Never mind that I have my toughest marathon challenge in about two weeks. I'm choosing fun on the trails over everything else right now. I'm running the <a href="http://www.dreamchaserevents.com/Races/Grand-Teton-Races">Grand Teton Marathon</a> on September 1st.</div>
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I got the privilege of running on some of the trails that I'll be running on during the marathon a couple of weeks ago. It was gorgeous to say the least. It's in Idaho and the temperature is at least 20 degrees cooler than here which was a breath of fresh air. It got me really excited and made me feel less anxious about the run. I decided that no matter how long it takes me, I will be on new trails, in a gorgeous part of the world. That sounds really good to me.</div>
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One of the "fun" parts of running in this part of Idaho is that you really shouldn't run alone. There are bears. Lots of them. I bought bear spray after talking with my brother who lives there and reading a scary news article and talking with the local guy at the running store. He had seen a bear the day before on his run. I guess it's just part of your arsenal when you run there. I'm hoping that the marathon will have enough people to scare away any bears.</div>
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We also got to run the Snake River with my family while we were there and had an absolute blast! The views were fantastic!</div>
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This is the view from my brother's back porch. It is a perfect view of the Tetons. We all felt like he was so lucky. He said it's just part of the background now. Sad. </div>
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We camped a few days in Montana and I got to run with my brother and my dad one morning. More beautiful trails there.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">yes, my dad is running in jeans. sigh.</td></tr>
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After we got back I tackled the hardest and longest trail run to date. My brother and I ran up to the top of Ben Lomond Peak and back. We ran a mile towards Willard Peak and back once we were at the top to make it 18 miles. It was beautiful and hard and a great day. I was surprised at how good I felt even at the end. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mel and her husband Carl ran with us for an hour to show us the way. We started bright and early at 5:30 at the trailhead.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My brother, Tom</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The views were incredible!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We saw 3 large herds of mountain goats.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the top! There were some boy scouts up there that took our picture for us.</td></tr>
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I did get frustrated towards the end of the run with all the rocks. It just got old avoiding them and trying not to trip and fall. It was a really great day and a run I'd like to do again. Just not any time soon!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxpeLjTcHrpAFX-DOEy90iv4ijtR_kdH4L7CWWIaFUC7Da7lvBgLHtvkiGL6rbZLz0eTK8nswZMHal8BUu-rqRilLtDjIrq6Bx6dqYD1ijkbRT7rg0q_U-vtvi014WL6q6ICQu4yLSwlg/s1600/IMG_5353.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxpeLjTcHrpAFX-DOEy90iv4ijtR_kdH4L7CWWIaFUC7Da7lvBgLHtvkiGL6rbZLz0eTK8nswZMHal8BUu-rqRilLtDjIrq6Bx6dqYD1ijkbRT7rg0q_U-vtvi014WL6q6ICQu4yLSwlg/s1600/IMG_5353.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My favorite picture of the day that my brother took. We less than two miles from being down but it looked like we were still really high up there.</td></tr>
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<br />Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12870882429676385594noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283852025744717899.post-29645495919273930492012-07-20T16:44:00.001-06:002012-07-20T16:44:59.480-06:00More new trails!I've been introduced to some new trails. And I love them. And they are only 10 minutes away. They are beautiful. You may not find me on the roads again any time soon. And it's all thanks to my buddy, Mel. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvuD7LeDQiLiPRln0im1O1h88a9iyQ3iXAc9MIH1Tr9nYPwv6kkvITFO0ZrE1oLr8VyoqOLkXmpyftWMT2BCDKJqWKSv6P1-p6K_4DZU63Yo9a6XkyNsBUTQmHFRNqJ1M68gNpeRxTrg0/s1600/IMG_4744.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvuD7LeDQiLiPRln0im1O1h88a9iyQ3iXAc9MIH1Tr9nYPwv6kkvITFO0ZrE1oLr8VyoqOLkXmpyftWMT2BCDKJqWKSv6P1-p6K_4DZU63Yo9a6XkyNsBUTQmHFRNqJ1M68gNpeRxTrg0/s640/IMG_4744.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
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I've had so much fun with her exploring these new trails. Last week we did a 10 mile trail run that was great. I was actually sad that it when it was over. I felt pretty good. Here's a few shots of the gorgeous mountainside. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy5iijPn0S31RhkIW5LD1QrHFZ_zByLVjCathUg6DAr-T7-BIc8zIV6yX05R64z_aI-3Ip_VhRsxCXKYhrlBSwLOlIAdM0EFLMleyqWKz_RoSRJskzPYNBy7MCG_kOJYn58RDDCeX9Nz8/s1600/IMG_4745.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy5iijPn0S31RhkIW5LD1QrHFZ_zByLVjCathUg6DAr-T7-BIc8zIV6yX05R64z_aI-3Ip_VhRsxCXKYhrlBSwLOlIAdM0EFLMleyqWKz_RoSRJskzPYNBy7MCG_kOJYn58RDDCeX9Nz8/s640/IMG_4745.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Fo5tGUxrBUQBq3LHQTVPjjtBYUdGPApBtwjCUOAxXLyVqR5wkw097QWdUyHrjtURMxPL35oG0Yar8HPkCEqmd-O1pTzut7H3iOUH_iD1ZtzbVuTfw05TtM72lC3QZnpIPdwNK5i19WE/s1600/IMG_4747.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Fo5tGUxrBUQBq3LHQTVPjjtBYUdGPApBtwjCUOAxXLyVqR5wkw097QWdUyHrjtURMxPL35oG0Yar8HPkCEqmd-O1pTzut7H3iOUH_iD1ZtzbVuTfw05TtM72lC3QZnpIPdwNK5i19WE/s640/IMG_4747.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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One week ago, my grandpa passed away. It's really been a tough couple of weeks watching him suffer and not be himself. And it's been hard watching my grandma suffer as well. They live just around the corner from us. I love them so much and we're really close. But I know that I'll see him again and until then, he can be my angel. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-dq7HFXmVd_paWT8UUH9EY26asIY9N_nuVIb1RFbcQfN_HQn_GEGru1x2231hyphenhyphenNKZSkKfqGa8abAGJMlYRouP1j5Vv7HPqO_OhB3CYaltdgIsBAh3HwtdDBRYoxCRuOCG144M4KD1nbE/s1600/IMG_4831.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-dq7HFXmVd_paWT8UUH9EY26asIY9N_nuVIb1RFbcQfN_HQn_GEGru1x2231hyphenhyphenNKZSkKfqGa8abAGJMlYRouP1j5Vv7HPqO_OhB3CYaltdgIsBAh3HwtdDBRYoxCRuOCG144M4KD1nbE/s400/IMG_4831.jpg" width="298" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin9F5LaaNaXhqm9HrWPqEDXFKPoA102-tBy-vhxitZw8QbCW5u0YlNIHJr_yPWPdJxOpwweiJmQ3_RFyaUM_hWjqeaHu_zAl_qEhrJatdCavIvPwiH1id1AMe8DeWNccUv_r2tzh5l13k/s1600/IMG_4679.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin9F5LaaNaXhqm9HrWPqEDXFKPoA102-tBy-vhxitZw8QbCW5u0YlNIHJr_yPWPdJxOpwweiJmQ3_RFyaUM_hWjqeaHu_zAl_qEhrJatdCavIvPwiH1id1AMe8DeWNccUv_r2tzh5l13k/s400/IMG_4679.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
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I was able to run alone on Monday the morning before the viewing and it was nice to be alone with my thoughts on the trail. There is something about running in nature with the sounds of a river and birds chirping and dirt underfoot that is spiritual. Maybe it's not that strange after all. Before there were temples, God spoke to his prophets in the mountains. They were holy places. There are times when I feel like the mountains are my sanctuary and are holy to me. This was one of those days. It was only a mile and a half up and the return trip, but it was enough time to come back feeling good and refreshed. I look forward to more trips up that mountain and more. And life will get back to normal around here.</div>
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Yesterday I ran with Mel and we did my longest trail run to date. She sure is patient with me. 15 miles. 7.5 up the mountain and back again. I am sore. Pretty darn sore. But it felt good. I felt like I had accomplished something. And I had a great time doing it.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Even the wildflowers are still blooming up that high!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It felt like we were running on the top of the world. And truthfully, we really were pretty high up there!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After tripping about 20 times and catching myself, I finally biffed it less than a mile from the end. And boy do I get dirty trail running. But look how good those toenails look!</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZd-qXxF4IJSvhwWf5p8RxrkNMm00BfSV9q85QYgJDggG-r4AgqAQqsuRH1yNLQiKLcn3QuhTLVNT3ZAUyxIftEWiWsdhnimiKQiAVM5d2TtVWi-7u2Y8awQTz3Cq_qn1wo_TJMYgeQ6s/s1600/IMG_4861.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZd-qXxF4IJSvhwWf5p8RxrkNMm00BfSV9q85QYgJDggG-r4AgqAQqsuRH1yNLQiKLcn3QuhTLVNT3ZAUyxIftEWiWsdhnimiKQiAVM5d2TtVWi-7u2Y8awQTz3Cq_qn1wo_TJMYgeQ6s/s400/IMG_4861.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12870882429676385594noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283852025744717899.post-86704825017603206602012-07-12T14:11:00.000-06:002012-07-12T14:11:06.802-06:00A break from the monotony at the City of Rocks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Every summer I hit a point where I just can't take the heat anymore and I start counting down the days until fall. I start to hibernate inside my house after a certain point in the morning and don't come out until I have to or until it's evening. I know. I'm a big wimp. I would just rather have it be winter than the heat of summer. Fortunately mother nature and my husband gave me a reprise that I needed last week. It rained. And my husband planned a day trip to the City of Rocks. We looked online for some trails I could run while we were there and before you knew it I had somewhere new to run as well. Though I've been doing about 1/2 my miles on trails and they're practically right at my front door, I'm getting sick of them. I needed somewhere new to run and this was so perfect. </div>
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While the kids and husband were busy climbing on the rock formations, I went for a run. </div>
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I was so caught up in the beauty of the scenery that after about 10 minutes on the trails, I was lost. I had the map folded up in my pocket, but only the main trails were marked and there were what seemed like a million little trails that were there as well. I couldn't find half of the landmarks that were on the trail and signs on the map. I tried to backtrack but couldn't figure out where I'd come from. I spent over an hour trying to find my way out. Some trails would just end and I'd backtrack to a different trail. Some would end on the top of a rock cliff. But everywhere I turned I was met with spectacular views. Even being lost, I was so happy with somewhere new to run. Eventually I found my way out and asked some campers how to get to a big rock formation where I had planned to meet my family. It was down the road about a mile. I'd completely come out pretty far away from where I'd planned to. It was so much fun, a little scary, and the perfect break from the monotony. The temperatures were in the 60's. It was rainy and I was soaking wet from the trees and bushes as well as the rain.<br />
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After I'd gotten back with the family, I realized I'd been missing out on the best part of the City of Rocks: climbing the rocks! Even that was a little frightening with my kids so close to sheer drop offs. We picked out a camp site that we thought was perfect and we'll be returning sometime soon for a longer stay. The City of Rocks was well worth the drive out there. It's like a small Granite Moab. If you get the chance, you should take a trip out there!<br />
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<br />Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12870882429676385594noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283852025744717899.post-62047730500834052392012-07-09T13:03:00.003-06:002012-07-09T13:04:18.256-06:00A visit with JuliaDo you ever feel so overwhelmed with things that you want to talk or write about that eventually you end up not doing any of it? That's how I've felt lately. There are lots of fun things that have been going on and things I have to say, but when I sit down to write about it, I can't seem to put it together. So I get up and walk away from the computer. I've decided just to start somewhere and make it small.<br />
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One my favorite things that I've gotten to do recently is have<a href="http://www.painprideperseverance.com/"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000;">Julia</span></a> come stay and visit with me. She is getting ready to move at the end of this month and I wanted to have some time with her before she goes. Not just running time, but other hanging out time as well.</div>
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She was so patient with my kiddos and even went to see the movie Brave with us. We got lots of time to talk and catch up and just relax. She brought her dogs with her and my kids were in heaven. Logan really liked Zoe and Caroline really liked Riley. It was such a fun time. </div>
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We got to run together early the next morning and it was fun showing someone else where I get to run. We went on my favorite trail and even ran back up a part again just for a few extra miles. Once we got back on pavement I started feeling like crap and the last 2 miles were not very fun. I couldn't get my breathing under control and couldn't wait to be done. I really don't know what happened. I didn't feel like I could complain too much though since Julia had run 20 miles the previous day and this was her back to back day. She's going to run a 50 miler this fall and I couldn't be more excited for her. She is such a wise, strong runner even though she's still really young. </div>
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I loved that we got to spend some time together before she leaves. There are some people you meet through this blogging world that somehow become life long friends. I feel that with so many of you and was really grateful that I was able to meet Julia in the first place and then continue our friendship. My kids were teasing me because of our age difference. (11 years) But running is the great equalizer and gives us something in common. It was truly a great weekend!</div>Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12870882429676385594noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283852025744717899.post-87011907755042930472012-06-26T12:33:00.001-06:002012-06-26T12:33:06.005-06:00A Hike With the Family to the Top of the Mountain<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Last weekend my family went on a hike. We originally had bigger plans than just a hike. We planned to sleep overnight on the top of our mountain with no sleeping bags, build our own shelter, family vs. wild type of thing. But with the dry season and hot weather we are not allowed to have a fire and that ended that adventure. Truthfully, I was not too disappointed. I had to talk the boys into bringing food during the planning phases. And before you think we're too weird...with my two oldest dressed the way they are...they are going on a Pioneer trek next month and wanted to try out their clothing to see how they worked. </div>
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We started out at 6:30 in the morning. It was going to be in the high 90's that day and we knew we needed to get an early start. It felt hot at 6:30 already. Luckily, there was a nice little breeze that kept cooling us off. Each of my kids packed their own water and the 2 oldest packed their own trail mix and granola bar as well.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Abby, Justin, Logan, Caroline and Janzen</td></tr>
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We live along the <a href="http://www.chacha.com/question/what-is-the-steepest-mountain-range-in-the-world-and-where-is-it"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000;">steepest mountain range</span></a> in the world. It is not easy hiking up to the top.</div>
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I think Logan's favorite place was this big field right before you head up a canyon where there were tons of grasshoppers. We have hiked up there with our kids several times before as training and they always did great.</div>
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He really didn't eat it although my husband pointed out that he could have if we were really in a survival situation.</div>
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The kid has great style though. Argyle socks with plaid shorts. And his new <a href="http://www.merrell.com/US/en-US/Product.mvc.aspx/29095Y/69516/Youth/Barefoot-Trail-Glove-Kids?dimensions=0"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000;">barefoot Merrell's</span></a>. Now my 2 sons and I both have the barefoot Merrell shoes. The girls have the <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000;"><a href="http://www.vivobarefoot.com/us/kids/neo-kids-39.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000;">Vivo Barefoot</span></a> </span>shoes and really like them. I got the girl's shoes at a website called <a href="http://www.zulily.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000;">Zulily</span></a> that has random sales and I just happened to spot them. I paid full price for my son's Merrell's. And I feel like it's worth it. I have a shoe post planned soon.</div>
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My husband and son got us some cattail roots to eat along the way. There are several springs along the mountain side that provide emergency water if necessary.</div>
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And my husband showed them what stinging nettle looks like as well as a good cure for it called Lamb's ear.</div>
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We made hiking sticks along the way and I was most surprised by the lack of complaining. I had geared myself up for a lot of it. It was interesting to see them go through periods of being tired and then after a drink and some trail mix practically run up the mountain.</div>
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There's one last really big hill before the top and the adrenaline must have kicked in because those kids ran up to the top. The hubs and I hiked it. They were so proud of themselves for making it to the top. It's a little over 3 miles and a 3000 ft. elevation gain. My youngest one said to me that he didn't think he could do it, but he did. Isn't that the lesson we want our kids to learn? We can do hard things. We had life lessons along the way that I tried to point out like staying on the trail, perspective, rewards for hard work and the sacred nature of the mountain. I love when parenting can be spur of the moment and you know it's sinking in.</div>
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My favorite comment from Logan along the trail was this little conversation:</div>
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Logan: I wish that someone would carry me.</div>
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Mom: Sorry, bud. No one's going to carry you today. Besides, you're so strong and look how far you've already come. You can do it. And we can take a break whenever you need it.</div>
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About 2 hours later...</div>
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Logan: I wish...I wish that I had new legs.</div>
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I could tell that he really wanted to say again that he wanted someone to carry him. But I was SO proud of that little 6 year old for doing what he did without complaint. About 500 ft. from our house he said that his legs were really hurting. I never heard another word about it though. Not the rest of the day or the next day when everyone else was pretty sore. Ah, to be a kid again!</div>
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After reaching the top we went down in the trees to get out of the wind. It was REALLY windy at the top and was hard to even hear the person next to you talking. But we were all really grateful for that wind because it was starting to get really hot!</div>
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We took a break and ate our granola bars and sat down. I really was so proud of my little family. We hiked around for a little bit and while traveling through the brush I made my husband and Justin go first to scare out any nasty critters. We saw evidence of mountain lions and elk up there. </div>
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Good thing I did because this huge 4 foot snake appeared and then slithered off into the sage brush. Yuck. My husband then pointed out that in a survival situation we would have killed that snake and ate it. Double Yuck.</div>
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Coming down is just as hard as going up because of the steepness and all the loose rocks. It was still work. We traveled about 8 miles in all. And we were all pretty tired when we got home. I was especially glad we didn't try to spend the night after the snake experience.</div>
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Everyone showered and I started laundry and each of us took a nap of some sort. It was a great day and one of those times you know each of them will remember hopefully forever.</div>Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12870882429676385594noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283852025744717899.post-51121312301137566712012-06-11T10:10:00.000-06:002012-06-11T10:31:17.861-06:00Tour de Cure 2012 Brigham City and Road Respect TourSaturday I completed my alternate goal for the spring, the Tour de Cure bicycling ride that benefits the American Diabetes Association. I signed up for it early in the spring when it became apparent that I wouldn't have time to train for the <a href="http://jenintraining.blogspot.com/2012/05/ogden-marathon-2012-8.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000;">marathon</span></a> that I already had signed up for. I thought it would give me something to work towards while I couldn't run. But when I could run again, biking again took second place to my first love and training for the ride didn't go as planned. I had signed up for the 60 mile ride but knew that I could drop down to the 25 the morning of if I wanted to. <br />
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The night before a storm was moving in. While it gave a nice drop in temperature it also came with wind. I was laying in bed listening to the wind violently churn. It made my stomach sick. I didn't sleep well. I finally got up and shut the window but even with my earplugs in and the window shut, I could still hear it. I dreamt I slept in and missed the whole event. And when I finally did wake up enough to figure out I was still going to make it, I was sick with that wind sound again. I can't remember the last time I had nerves like this. Part of it was nerves that with my non road bike I wasn't going to be able to keep up and would be the last one crossing the finish line. Part of it was the skin tight outfit that I was going to stuff myself in to match the rest of the team. And I'm sure that part of it was that my training was lacking and my longest ride had been 35 miles over a month previous. I did manage a 30 mile ride last week but it really wiped me out. I was worried.</div>
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After I got up and ate and filled up my tires and got my gear together, I rode down to the starting line. I'd never seen so many bikes in one place. This was my first biking event and I was nervous. The wind had died down a little and was not more than a breeze. But the weather had predicted that it would only get worse again as the day went on. After signing in and taking a picture with the group the 100 milers got set to take off. A friend from spin class and the team was riding the same mileage that I was and we decided that with the wind coming in that we'd just start with them instead of waiting a hour and a half for our official start. Since it wasn't technically a race just a ride, we figured it didn't matter.</div>
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We lined up at the back and took off. I was shocked at how quickly the time and the miles went by. We practiced drafting and she showed me some of the signs to use while in a line. I was really working when it was my turn in front. I didn't want to go slow and let her down. It sure felt good to take a turn behind, but I was a little worried that I wasn't taking it easy by any means. It wasn't long before we had hit 15 miles and the first rest stop. This is where biking gets major points in comparison to running. While riding you can eat pretty much whatever you want and your stomach doesn't get nauseous. So they had peanut butter and bread to make sandwiches, rice crispy treats, fig newtons (I thought of you, Mike) and lots of other treats. I brought my Nuun and filled my water bottle up and ate a fig newton. We got right back on the road and headed out. We rode through beautiful country. The sky was gorgeous. It was a cool morning. My body was doing well. And we were cruising right along. Many silent prayers of thanks were said. Before I knew it we were at the next stop. 30 miles. The volunteers were awesome. They were handing out leighs and it was decorated with surfboards and had fun music playing. I filled up my water bottle again, took a quick bathroom break and we headed out knowing the lunch stop was in 10 miles. </div>
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Sometime during those 10 miles I passed the point of my furthest ride ever and couldn't help but smile. My quads were starting to feel it but every time we stopped, I stretched them out as well as everything else and getting back on the bike wasn't bad. During this point in the ride the wind really started picking up again and it was starting to be a battle to find where the best drafting point would be. We still took turns leading. I was so glad she let me do it even though we were a little slower during my turns. She is a great leader and really knows how to educate and encourage new riders. We also hit the only real big hill in the ride. It was by far the hardest hill I have ever done. My bike didn't want to shift into the lowest gear and that was frustrating, but I did make it to the top even though I thought getting off and walking my bike to the top might have been faster. The lunch stop was great except they didn't have plates or forks. So we just ate a cliff bar and I ate a rice crispy treat. It was so good. I also had a slice of the best watermelon I'd ever tasted. </div>
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We sat for a few minutes and then decided to head out. We left about the same time as a group from Salt Lake that buzzed by us a bit earlier and after we caught up we decided to ride together. We only had 20 miles left but I knew that it was going to be hard. And it was. We stayed with that group but I never took a turn in front. I was working really hard just to keep up and the miles were starting to wear on my quads. I was glad for the last stop at 51 miles for a chance to fill up my water again and head for the finish. It seemed like my mountains were so far away. It seemed like more than 9 miles back. And the wind was getting worse. I didn't to lose the group because I knew it was going to be easier with them, but it was SO hard keeping up. Even when I knew there was 1 mile left it felt like forever. Finally we turned a corner and the finish line was right there. We finished in about 3 hours and 40 minutes with an average speed of 16.6 miles per hour. I was happy with that time.</div>
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I really couldn't believe it. It was awesome. I had a great feeling of accomplishment and such a sense of relief that it was over. As soon as we stopped and got our picture taken I instantly felt sick. Like I was going to loose my cookies sick. The finish line area was getting hectic so we rode out and I rode home. After I put my bike away and got in the house that nauseous feeling came back. I knew I needed to eat something but nothing sounded good and I didn't know if I'd keep it down anyway. So I showered and ate another couple of fig newtons. I made me a glass of grape juice and vanilla protein powder and hoped that would stay down. </div>
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After I got dressed and ready I headed back out because the day wasn't over. <a href="http://www.roadrespect.utah.gov/index.php"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000;">The Road Respect Tour</span></a> was coming through our city and because I am on the Biking Committee for our city I wanted to be there. This group of riders had been riding all week across the state from St. George to Logan averaging anywhere from 80 miles to 120 miles each day. Their message is for drivers to have respect for bikers and for bikers to have respect for drivers. The really cool part is that they are led in their rides by a guy who is 67 years old. It was great seeing them ride into town, having the mayor sign a proclamation, and chatting with a few of them before they continued their ride to Logan. </div>
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It was a good day. I ended up being nauseous for about an hour afterwards. I think it was because I just pushed it so hard. And though I'm not exactly sore my legs just feel exhausted. I also ended up with a headache for the rest of the day no matter how much I drank and I was starving yesterday all day. One really positive note for the ride: my rear end was never sore and I didn't even really notice the saddle. I attribute this completely to the shorts I was wearing. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000;"> <a href="http://www.blackbottoms.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000;">Blackbottoms</span></a></span> shorts with the premium shammy. Worth every single penny.</div>
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Would I do it again? Yes. But I think I need a road bike. :)</div>Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12870882429676385594noreply@blogger.com11