Inspiration is a funny thing. Ever since I started running, I've had people tell me, "Oh, you've inspired me. I've signed up for (insert seemingly difficult race here) and now I'm so excited!"
Which is so awesome. And at first, I was shy and would mumble my appreciation. But the more I think about it. The more I wonder. Am I truly such an inspiration, or do they just figure, "Well, shoot! If she can do it, then I'm out of excuses!"?
Let's look at some examples of inspiration. The little kid with a pediatric condition that bravely endures their treatment without complaining. Inspiring. The soldiers overseas fighting for our freedom. Inspiring. The dad that pushes his son's wheelchair so he can participate in races. Inspiring.
Let's look at me. I'm a mom that hits the sidewalks to get some time to myself and alleviate stress. I participate in half marathons in order to keep myself motivated and push my limits. I have set personal records only for myself and won only finisher medals. Pretty average.
And yet, people continue to say I inspire them.
But that's not why I run. I will continue to mumble my appreciation and offer any tips and suggestions they'd like to hear. But I'm out there for me (and the well-being of my children). But maybe, at the start of every difficult, long run and the bottom of every long hill, those powerful words will ring in my ears and give me the extra strength I need to dig deep and get my larger-than-normal ego going!
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
Monday, November 12, 2012
The Innocence of a Child
For those of you who read my blog to get a good laugh for the day, today is not that day. But I wanted to share my insight with all of you out there before it gets lost in the fog of my mommy-brain. Or in the couch cushions.
We are fortunate enough to live very close to Madelynn's school, so we make every effort to walk to school in the morning. I'm also super-fortunate to live next door to another awesome Mommy that's become a close friend and we share drop-off, pick-up duties. So, I find myself walking to school with an 8 year old, 7 year old, 5 year old and two 2 year olds. The big kids have learned the rules of where to stop in order to cross the one street, and they often run ahead. So the little kids have figured out that being buckled in the wagon is pretty restrictive and there is freedom to be had! ONE TIME I let them walk, and it's been awful trying to get them back in that wagon ever since.
So the little kids are walking. And they don't quite know the rules. And they're clumsy. So I hold their hands. And this is to keep them safe, but they don't always understand or like this.
And so it hit me.
What a parallel this is between the relationship we have with our children and the relationship God has with us.
Think about it. God holds our hands to keep us safe. Most of the time, we're just cruising along. Maybe even thinking we got this under control. But what about when we want to go "explore" and we're denied? We chafe under not being able to do what we want, but the simple truth of it, is that we can't see the big picture and don't understand that God is simply keeping us out of the street where the I'm-late-for-school-so-I-must-drive-faster people are.
But it's not just the guiding that we can compare. What about inevitable moment that a clumsy little foot catches on the sidewalk. Your Mommy hand tightens and goes up, thereby saving a scraped knee and tears. God does that too. When we're walking hand in hand with him, he's there to protect us from scrapes in life when they come along. But if we've let go, thinking we can handle things on our own, that fall can be painful and scarring.
So, rather than throwing a fit about having to hold hands or trying to wriggle free at every opportunity (squirrel!), lets approach our walk with God with the innocence of a 2 year old. Enjoy the world around you and trust in His strength to keep you safe and secure in life.
We are fortunate enough to live very close to Madelynn's school, so we make every effort to walk to school in the morning. I'm also super-fortunate to live next door to another awesome Mommy that's become a close friend and we share drop-off, pick-up duties. So, I find myself walking to school with an 8 year old, 7 year old, 5 year old and two 2 year olds. The big kids have learned the rules of where to stop in order to cross the one street, and they often run ahead. So the little kids have figured out that being buckled in the wagon is pretty restrictive and there is freedom to be had! ONE TIME I let them walk, and it's been awful trying to get them back in that wagon ever since.
So the little kids are walking. And they don't quite know the rules. And they're clumsy. So I hold their hands. And this is to keep them safe, but they don't always understand or like this.
And so it hit me.
What a parallel this is between the relationship we have with our children and the relationship God has with us.
Think about it. God holds our hands to keep us safe. Most of the time, we're just cruising along. Maybe even thinking we got this under control. But what about when we want to go "explore" and we're denied? We chafe under not being able to do what we want, but the simple truth of it, is that we can't see the big picture and don't understand that God is simply keeping us out of the street where the I'm-late-for-school-so-I-must-drive-faster people are.
But it's not just the guiding that we can compare. What about inevitable moment that a clumsy little foot catches on the sidewalk. Your Mommy hand tightens and goes up, thereby saving a scraped knee and tears. God does that too. When we're walking hand in hand with him, he's there to protect us from scrapes in life when they come along. But if we've let go, thinking we can handle things on our own, that fall can be painful and scarring.
So, rather than throwing a fit about having to hold hands or trying to wriggle free at every opportunity (squirrel!), lets approach our walk with God with the innocence of a 2 year old. Enjoy the world around you and trust in His strength to keep you safe and secure in life.
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
Morning Running?!?!
If you'd told me as a teenager that I'd wake up at 5 am on purpose, to run AND enjoy it. I'd probably smack you in the face. With a hammer.
Yet, there I was. Running along this morning at 5:15, thinking to myself, "How nice is this? It's so quiet, peaceful and cool." and now I'm sitting on the couch, drinking a still-warm cup of coffee and watching (gasp) NOT Nick Jr!
So, I'm planning to continue this trend through the summer as I train for my third and final half-marathon of the year in October. Waddell & Reed, here I come!
Oh, and I managed to run 3.03 miles in 40 minutes. Not stellar, but acceptable.
Friday, June 29, 2012
Spitting
There are some unglamorous aspects of running. I mean besides the copious sweating, splotchy face and the need for Body Glide. For me, one of those is spitting. I know, eew. (If you're already grossed out, you should stop reading. Like, seriously.)
This can be attributed to two things. First, I'm a mouth-breather. I tried to breathe through my nose once. I was gasping so bad, I just ended up getting boogers all over myself. Secondly, I refuse to carry any water with me. It's just too much of a pain. And there's a real lack of people standing along my route with paper cups of water to give me. They set water out for dogs, what about the humans?
So, I breath through my mouth and work up a nice, mouthful of foam and then have nothing with which to wash it down. The obvious alternative is to spit.
In the many miles I've traveled, I've discovered there are four kinds of spitballs.
The Neat Ball
This spitball occurs early in a run. You've breathed just enough to work up a mouth full of foam and it's got to go. So, you turn your head, make an O with your mouth and propel the foam outward. And a neat, perfect little ball goes flying through the air to the grass (never, EVER spit on the sidewalk! That's just gross and rude!) And on you continue with your run and your refreshed mouth.
The Grenade
That refreshed mouth does not stay that way for long, however and soon it's time to clear out again. So you go through the same motions, but much to your surprise, The Neat Ball explodes on it's way out and ridiculous pieces fly everywhere. The key thing about The Grenade is timing. One should always assume The Grenade is appearing (rather than The Neat Ball) and allow enough time for the pieces to land before turning your head back to the front. That's right, shrapnel. And dry-wicking running clothes don't handle spit very well! Correct. I have spit on myself.
The Phantom
This spitball is typical of longer runs. As your body uses up its internal hydration, it runs out of moisture to make spit. But your mouth can still make bubbles! And trying to spit those bubbles is just plain ridiculous, but oh so necessary! And so you go through the motions, attempt to expel them and then.......nothing. So frustrating!
The Head Cold
This spitball is horrendous and to be avoided at all costs when running with friends, at races or on the treadmill. Well, you probably shouldn't spit while on the treadmill as a general rule.
Murphy's Law of Running states that you will get a head/chest cold exactly two weeks prior to the race that terrifies you most.
So basically, you can still run, but you feel like crap and breathing is a joke. Drowning in you're mucous is more accurate. In order to survive to the end, you must get rid of some of that mucous. By spitting. But this is no average spitball. It's a bona fide lougee. And the production isn't pretty, either. All that hacking and gargling. Gross. And then, the worst part, getting rid of it. One time, I actually went through all the prep and then this guy ran by. Totally waited til he was out of sight before I spit it out. That was interesting.
But you have to be careful when you spit these out. They tend to have a mind of their own. They sometimes stay neat and land where you aim. Sometimes they explode on the way down and kill small bugs. And sometimes the wind catches them. And blows them back at you. And you don't notice. Until you get home. And realize you've ran five miles with a lougee on your shirt.
So, the moral to the story is, if you run with me, stick to the front!
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
Running Away from Home
Madelynn and McKenna were playing outside this fine spring morning while I was preparing lunch. Earlier that morning, McKenna had happened across a backpack in her closet that she'd been carrying around all morning. So both girls were outside with their backpacks playing nicely (for a change).
Solemnly, Madelynn comes through the back door, "Mom, I'm running away from home." and gives me a great big bear hug. "Please take care of LuLu." McKenna had to be more prompted for my hug, but I got one.
And off they set. After Mommy checked to make sure it was ok to cross the street.
I watched, discreetly as they walked down the block, hand in hand. They came to a little side street and stopped, faced with a dilemma. They've never been allowed to cross a street without an adult before. What should they do? So they sat down in the grass and took a rest. Madelynn told me later, they had decided to live there.
But McKenna decided they should press on. So they walked up to the very edge of the sidewalk, looked both ways 20 times and RAN AS FAST AS THEY COULD across the street. Emboldened, they joined hands and continued walking.
At this point, I decided it was time to interfere. I gathered Marek and Teagen, got my car keys, shut the house up and turned off the oven (all in a matter of two seconds, as I didn't really want them out of my sight!). When I was coming out the front door, I noticed they were walking back towards our house. I watched them check for cars another 20-hundred times and make their mad dash, all while trying to appear nonchalant and NOT like I was waiting for them to come home.
When they got back, I asked them why they came back.
"Well, we decided to think twice about it. We didn't really have anywhere to live and we don't have any food." said Madelynn.
"Yeah. I'm going to get my bike. Can you tell me which way is Cadence's house?" said McKenna.
Over lunch, we discussed the fact that I wasn't really going to let them run away, Cadence lives REALLY far away and that it isn't safe to leave the house without a grownup. I know the lesson hit home for Madelynn. McKenna had that gleam in her eye....
Solemnly, Madelynn comes through the back door, "Mom, I'm running away from home." and gives me a great big bear hug. "Please take care of LuLu." McKenna had to be more prompted for my hug, but I got one.
And off they set. After Mommy checked to make sure it was ok to cross the street.
But McKenna decided they should press on. So they walked up to the very edge of the sidewalk, looked both ways 20 times and RAN AS FAST AS THEY COULD across the street. Emboldened, they joined hands and continued walking.
At this point, I decided it was time to interfere. I gathered Marek and Teagen, got my car keys, shut the house up and turned off the oven (all in a matter of two seconds, as I didn't really want them out of my sight!). When I was coming out the front door, I noticed they were walking back towards our house. I watched them check for cars another 20-hundred times and make their mad dash, all while trying to appear nonchalant and NOT like I was waiting for them to come home.
When they got back, I asked them why they came back.
"Well, we decided to think twice about it. We didn't really have anywhere to live and we don't have any food." said Madelynn.
"Yeah. I'm going to get my bike. Can you tell me which way is Cadence's house?" said McKenna.
Over lunch, we discussed the fact that I wasn't really going to let them run away, Cadence lives REALLY far away and that it isn't safe to leave the house without a grownup. I know the lesson hit home for Madelynn. McKenna had that gleam in her eye....
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Dangerous Words
This evening, my husband uttered dangerous words. We'd tucked the kids into bed, picked up the house and changed into jammies when he yawned, and said,
"You know what sounds good? A McFlurry. Well, good night."
And off he strolled to bed.
I should also frame this little comment with an incident from earlier this afternoon. While I was stretching to head out for a practice 5K, I glanced over to see Branden eating a Hershey bar. Which I happened to know was the LAST ONE. When I inquired about this, all he said was, "I love you honey!"
Bummer.
So here I sit. In a quiet house. Desperate for something sweet. And my secret stash raided and empty.
"You know what sounds good? A McFlurry. Well, good night."
And off he strolled to bed.
I should also frame this little comment with an incident from earlier this afternoon. While I was stretching to head out for a practice 5K, I glanced over to see Branden eating a Hershey bar. Which I happened to know was the LAST ONE. When I inquired about this, all he said was, "I love you honey!"
Bummer.
So here I sit. In a quiet house. Desperate for something sweet. And my secret stash raided and empty.
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Running is Cheap
Yeah. Whoever said that, never actually ran. Like as a hobby. Running in itself is cheap. The accessories, not so much. And to be successful in long distance running, the accessories are key. Here are a few that I've discovered are super important to me.
Shoes
This seems like a pretty obvious one. Did you know that you're supposed to replace your shoes after 300 to 500 miles. Guess I threw all my other ones out too soon. Ah ha ha! Shockingly, I'm on my second pair of running shoes and they're nigh unto death. I'm debating the wisdom of nursing them through the half marathon I have coming up in April. But when a quality pair costs $100, wisdom and economics don't always speak the same language.
Clothes
Another no brainer. For me, spandex is my friend. No, no, no! A blend, I swear! I have been pleasantly surprised by Old Navy's active wear line. They're inexpensive, comfortable and cute. I will reluctantly admit, I wear my running pants far more often than I actually run.
Socks
Yes, this is so important, it is in a separate category from clothing. COTTON IS ROTTEN! Ok, I read that somewhere. But it's totally true. If you don't have synthetic socks, you'll regret it. They even have these fancy ones with the extra supportive band around your arch. Gotta try those....
Bra
Again, super important. I have experienced both extremes of badness. The pain of having your boobs bouncing all around because your bra is too loose, is a special kind of pain. However, the squished, I can't breathe because my boobs are invading my lung space, feeling-is also special. And when you're running, you'll find that breathing is important. But tight sports bras are impossible to get on and off by yourself. And that's a tough thing to realize. Until you have to say, "Honey, can you help me get my bra off?" Especially when you're sweaty.
Armband/RunnersPack
This is for holding your iPod (or other such music listening devices). I despise holding anything in my hand. I can't even carry water with me. So, this is uber-important for making sure I have my tunes! The washable ones are good. They, too can get pretty stinky!
My sister, Katie (Our Adventures) swears by the RunnersPack. She puts all sorts of stuff in it when she runs. Keys, water, phone, my crap, etc. Me, I don't really see the need for one. I just run with her.
Tunes
I debated putting this at the top of the list. But, you know you look at those people that run barefoot like they're a little bit crazy. So, put some shoes on first and then create your playlist. You can use whatever device works best for you. But be sure you know how to use it! For me, it is for my iPhone. Let's call a spade a spade: I'm a little klutzy. So that means running with a device that allows me to listen to music and dial 911 when I've fallen and made a fool of myself. Back to the songs. There's nothing crappier than struggling to make it up a tough hill and the slowest, stupidest song comes on. It's enough to make you pack it in for the day. Conversely, the right song, with the perfect beat, at that tough moment, can make your feet lighter and that hill a little more manageable. So, put some thought into that playlist. Tweak it as needed. And delete those stupid songs!
Apps
Finally, get a good app! When you're out there hitting the sidewalk, or treadmill, by yourself, you need a good coach. There's a ton of apps that can help you on your merry, running way. The one that got me started was the Couch to 5K and from there I've gone on to RunKeeper. (Katie swears by Run Coach Pro). They're all pretty inexpensive and you can tailor them to fit your needs.
So there you have it. All my secrets. And now you know why I scoff at the people that say running is cheap. And you can scoff right along with me.
Amy
All donations can be sent to.....
Ok, I'm only mostly kidding. But if you're interested in helping support my habit, you can check out the things I have for sale on my facebook page "Sewing to Run" :)
Shoes
This seems like a pretty obvious one. Did you know that you're supposed to replace your shoes after 300 to 500 miles. Guess I threw all my other ones out too soon. Ah ha ha! Shockingly, I'm on my second pair of running shoes and they're nigh unto death. I'm debating the wisdom of nursing them through the half marathon I have coming up in April. But when a quality pair costs $100, wisdom and economics don't always speak the same language.
Clothes
Another no brainer. For me, spandex is my friend. No, no, no! A blend, I swear! I have been pleasantly surprised by Old Navy's active wear line. They're inexpensive, comfortable and cute. I will reluctantly admit, I wear my running pants far more often than I actually run.
Socks
Yes, this is so important, it is in a separate category from clothing. COTTON IS ROTTEN! Ok, I read that somewhere. But it's totally true. If you don't have synthetic socks, you'll regret it. They even have these fancy ones with the extra supportive band around your arch. Gotta try those....
Bra
Again, super important. I have experienced both extremes of badness. The pain of having your boobs bouncing all around because your bra is too loose, is a special kind of pain. However, the squished, I can't breathe because my boobs are invading my lung space, feeling-is also special. And when you're running, you'll find that breathing is important. But tight sports bras are impossible to get on and off by yourself. And that's a tough thing to realize. Until you have to say, "Honey, can you help me get my bra off?" Especially when you're sweaty.
Armband/RunnersPack
This is for holding your iPod (or other such music listening devices). I despise holding anything in my hand. I can't even carry water with me. So, this is uber-important for making sure I have my tunes! The washable ones are good. They, too can get pretty stinky!
My sister, Katie (Our Adventures) swears by the RunnersPack. She puts all sorts of stuff in it when she runs. Keys, water, phone, my crap, etc. Me, I don't really see the need for one. I just run with her.
Tunes
I debated putting this at the top of the list. But, you know you look at those people that run barefoot like they're a little bit crazy. So, put some shoes on first and then create your playlist. You can use whatever device works best for you. But be sure you know how to use it! For me, it is for my iPhone. Let's call a spade a spade: I'm a little klutzy. So that means running with a device that allows me to listen to music and dial 911 when I've fallen and made a fool of myself. Back to the songs. There's nothing crappier than struggling to make it up a tough hill and the slowest, stupidest song comes on. It's enough to make you pack it in for the day. Conversely, the right song, with the perfect beat, at that tough moment, can make your feet lighter and that hill a little more manageable. So, put some thought into that playlist. Tweak it as needed. And delete those stupid songs!
Apps
Finally, get a good app! When you're out there hitting the sidewalk, or treadmill, by yourself, you need a good coach. There's a ton of apps that can help you on your merry, running way. The one that got me started was the Couch to 5K and from there I've gone on to RunKeeper. (Katie swears by Run Coach Pro). They're all pretty inexpensive and you can tailor them to fit your needs.
So there you have it. All my secrets. And now you know why I scoff at the people that say running is cheap. And you can scoff right along with me.
Amy
All donations can be sent to.....
Ok, I'm only mostly kidding. But if you're interested in helping support my habit, you can check out the things I have for sale on my facebook page "Sewing to Run" :)
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