Resting the joints

Wenzyl, excited to be out in the woods!

 Today Wenzyl, Woody, Cocobean and I all headed out for a hike in the woods, which ended with a refreshing swim.  As much as I love running... taking a break from it is a nice change of pace. 

Swimming with my buddy

There is something so refreshing about swimming in a lake.  I personally don't like swimming in a pool that's loaded with chemicals, a lake is just so natural.  I will admit I'm not a huge fan of weeds.., my vivid imagination gets the best of me, and I freak out a little on the inside.  However I do eventually get over my fear and take the plunge.  After hiking and working up a good sweat, jumping into water is especially appreciated. 

 I think Wenzyl was slightly confused when I was swimming her.  I haven't done so since last summer, I feel like she had forgotten what it was like.  She was almost on top of me, as if she were protecting me.  It was sweet, although her nails hitting my skin underwater didn't feel that way. 

Simple beauty

I'm planning on heading out for a bike ride a little later.  It's a hot beautiful day, and I don't want to be inside!

Here are some pictures from our hike, hope you're all enjoying the summer! 



need I say anything?



Woody stealing my towel , he tends to gravitate towards the plush things in life! Kris I thought you'd enjoy this one!



All things serve a purpose



Cocobean




Wenzyl




ready to swim!






26.2? Been there, Ran that!



Spaghetti Dinner Friday before the big race

 Friday afternoon, Zack and I packed up the Sube and headed for Duluth.  I always look forward to "people watching" at the DECC,  browsing through racing gadgets, and munching on snacks.  Abe met me, along with his girlfriend Sarah.  We pushed our way through the crowds in order to pick up our race packet.  Abe had to stand in the "ill prepared" line because he forgot his "green ticket" they send you when you register for race, that you need in order to pick up your packet.  Luckily a photo ID did the job, however I still had to poke fun!  On our way to the "chip line" where you scan your chip like at the grocery store check out (just to make sure it works)... Fox 21 decided to pull me and Abe aside for an interview.  Abe, the slick little man that he is, decided to get himself out of the situation and left me to the embarrassment of being on T.V. 

I found a great little magnet bumper sticker that says, " 26.2, "Been there Ran that"... I couldn't resist.  I also purchased a cute necklace that simply stated 26.2.  I realized as I was purchasing these little things... how much running is a "culture".  The two things I mentioned are only tiny pieces of what else is out there, and runners were going nuts over this stuff!  It just comes to show that running a marathon, or a half marathon is something to be darn proud of!

As I made my way home, I had flashbacks of living in Chicago, the cars were bumper to bumper... it was insane!  Although, this made me even more excited for the next days festivities!  We had a spaghetti feast at my parents home in Cloquet, along with salad, garlic bread and birthday cake for Zack, my brother Donny, and my Dad (All of the early June birthdays).  Abe Curren, Jon Hallie, Zack, my brother Jess and soon to be Sister in law Holland, my brother Donny and Sister in law Kristie, my two nephews Alec and Devon, Mom, Dad, Grandpa, Grandma, Uncle Jerry and I all enjoyed the feast!  It was so nice to have the whole family together. 

0500 on the morning of the race!  Abe found his socks... he is now happy! 

We made it an early night, I made my way upstairs to prepare for an early morning wake up call.  Saturday morning, I heard rain pouring down on the window sill outside.  It was a cold morning, which made me extremely happy.. although the rain was concerning me.  My sweetheart of a husband, woke up bright and early with me, and drove me to Duluth to catch the train that would take Abe and I 26.2 miles up the North Shore in the pouring rain.  We lucked out and got one of the vintage train cars, which was comprised of old windows, seats and trim.  It also had two bathrooms which was extremely convenient before reaching the starting line. 

When the train stopped so did the rain.  Abe and I got off the train and headed towards the starting line.  We were so excited!  This year the train was the "gun" for the start... it took us over 7 minutes to get to the actual starting line.  The sea of people was surreal.  Abe and I ran 11 miles or so side by side... at one time, we were sharing IPOD buds, laughing hysterically.  The race went really well.  My favorite part is reaching Lake Ave (Pizza Luce) this is where my husband waits for me.  He's tall, and sticks out of the crowd, so I start looking for him about a half mile before I get there.  Seeing his smiling face, makes the 25 miles worth every step!  His support is something that I treasure and feel so blessed to have.

Abe crossed the finish line at 4 hours and 37 minutes, and I crossed in 4 hours and 47 minutes.  We both really slowed down the last 5 miles, which took us about an hour!  I guess our bodies had enough!  Jon Hallie, did the half marathon and he crossed with an awesome time of 2 hours! 


Here are the links to our race times if you're interested:

Abe- http://www.mtecresults.com/runner/show?rid=2616&race=355    
Cory-http://www.mtecresults.com/runner/show?rid=7045&race=355
Jon- http://www.mtecresults.com/runner/show?rid=14852&race=356

It's hard to explain what it's like when you cross the finish line to a marathon.  I would encourage you to train for a race so you too can experience such an amazing thing.  The feeling you have inside is like nothing I've ever experienced.  It's a "natural high" some would say.  Here is a picture of the metal we received this year. 

After the race, I decided to get some food (strawberries, orange, bagel, yogurt, chips, nutty bar) and head over to the massage tent.  Unfortunately, they ran out of wraps, so I literally froze.  I got out of line, went to get my running bag and made my way over to Little Angies.  My hubby, Abe and Sarah were waiting for me.  We chowed down on some yummy Mexican and then went our separate ways. 



All refreshed after a hot tub and shower

 This year was a memorable running season for me.  Having the opportunity to run with Abe who's a long time friend was truly amazing.  I'm so proud of his accomplishments!  I hope to run another race with him in the near future. 

I also had the opportunity to run with my friend Will, even though he didn't do the race with me, I know he was still there cheering me on... and growling!  

Riding the cross train

I ventured out for a 10 mile bike ride this afternoon, in hopes to stretch out my legs from our 22 miler yesterday.  It was a really nice change of pace, literally. I worked up a good sweat, which I guess should be expected with a temperature of 84 degrees and no cloud cover. 

The things I love about biking:
1. You cover a lot of ground in a short amount of time
2. You can relax when going down hills
3. You have a fresh breeze blowing in your face, which allows for a good intake of mother natures perfumes and a natural cooling effect.
4. You can carry a lot of equipment with you, (especially if you have a panier) such as a large water bottle, camera, rain gear and snacks.
5. It's different from running

As I covered ground today, I pictured our footsteps on the trail from yesterday.  I thought to myself, we ran this plus 12 miles?  It's bizarre to think about even doing such a thing, even more bizarre knowing that I did it?  Being on the bike today was refreshing to say the least.  I'm giving my body a break for a few days from running, unfortunately I'm suffering with two blisters on the tips of two of my toes. This makes it difficult to run.  I'm thinking of taking a dip in the lake tomorrow! 

Happy Running, Biking, Swimming, Moving!

What toenails?

I don't think we realize what we're getting ourselves into?

0900 this morning, Abe, Will and I headed out to the Mesabi trail to punch out 22 miles.  The sun was shining and there wasn't a cloud in the sky.  Luckily, there was a nice cool breeze that kept us somewhat "sane" over the miles. 

Over all, I felt pretty good... I hit my "wall" at about 20 miles.  Thoughts that consisted of "why am I doing this again?", or "am I crazy?" ran through my head faster then my feet were hitting the pavement.  Once I crossed the 22 mile mark though and came home to my wonderful, thoughtful husband preparing a large feast for us; it all went away. 

I listened to my IPOD a lot this run, (which is unlike me) although I think it was a good thing, it allowed me to focus more on my body and not what was coming out of my mouth in conversation.  The 3 of us split up around 8 miles, met up again at 11 and pretty much ran separate the rest of the way.  Even though I didn't "see" Abe or Will during those times, I still new that they were out on the trail, suffering just as I was, this in itself, kept me moving.  I stopped four times to fill my water belt, walked up two hills, and used the bathroom (aka poison ivy infested woods) other then that, I moved my body the WHOLE TIME!!!  It took me 4 hours and 7 minutes.  I felt myself really slowing down at the end, the heat got the best of me, I'll be honest.  The sun was relentless and at times I felt like going into the woods to just shelter myself from it.  It was as like the sun literally drained my body of the energy that I was replenishing it with.  Thank God for sunscreen!  I kept up a good sweat, at one time, I wasn't sweating, until I hit my last water station.  I drank, (probably too much) and was on my way.  Shortly after, I felt myself starting to sweat again, which was good being I was essentially overheating. 

It was great to see so many other people enjoying the trail today.  There were a lot of other runners on the trail, (Go Carrie Thorvig!!), bikers (one of which found it necessary to drink a Budweiser while attempting to ride his bike), and walkers. 

As the trail maneuvered its way through the little town of Bovey, the smell of hot dogs was in the air from a baseball game in the near distance.  This made me excited to get home!

I have no idea what he's doing?

When running a marathon, it's a common "known" that near the end of the race, runners are being wiped of all of their available energy stores.  They run more sloppy, doing anything to conserve the little energy they have left.  Some actually look like they're in pain, and most likely they are.  The downfall with training and not running an actual marathon is the people you pass by, don't have any idea how many miles you've ran.   At one point, I wanted to yell out, "I've ran 20 miles", I'm sure I looked like I was out of shape by the way I was running and how slow I was going (not that anyone cares), but still... it's an urge that I almost carried out at one point.  I did find joy inside when I ran by bikers two different times during our run, they.... knew!

Zack, Will and Abe enjoying lunch!

We enjoyed watermelon, burgers, sunchips, beans and stella beer... perfect way to end a long run.  After a two hour nap, I feel amazing!  Time to head out for a ride in the convertible! 

Well this was our last run before the big race.  I'm really praying for cooler weather, although I do feel that I'm prepared for hot conditions after today. 

Happy Running!

Breathing Water

This morning Wenzyl and I went for a run on the trail, and a damp run it was.  The Humidity according to, weather.com was 82%, and the temperature was sitting a balmy 70 degrees.  This made for extremely sticky conditions, which I personally DO NOT LIKE!

With the race around the corner, I find myself praying for cool weather more and more.  It's amazing how the temperature and humidity can have a negative effect on your performance.  Unless, you're Will Richter that is, he enjoys the "hot and sticky" and encourages extreme forms of exercise in such conditions.  I still don't understand where he is coming from?

I do have to admit, aside from the uncomfortableness of the humidity, and sweat pouring out of my pores, the smells of the earth are extremely heightened when it's humid out.  I'm not sure if this is because things become more stagnant due to all of the moisture in the air,or maybe it's my imagination?  I felt like I could smell every flower budding in the woods, every piece of bark and pine cone on the forest floor, each blade of fresh grass, and (my favorite smell) lilacs.  Breathing this in, I feel, rejuvenates me.  Almost like getting an aromatherapy massage... all of the smells allow you to relax as they penetrate your senses.  Luckily, I was able to focus on this, and not the fact that I was dripping from head to toe with sweat.

Will, Abe and I are gearing up for a 22 miler on Sunday.  I'm hoping the weather will cooperate.  This will be our last long run before the big race!  Bring it on!

If anyone reading that is thinking about possibly running a marathon or half marathon, I would encourage you to show your support on June 18th in Duluth.  You will see so many different runners, young, old, small, big, fast, slow... the list goes on.  The fact is, they're all out there running, for their own reasons.  If they can do it, SO CAN YOU!

Happy Running!

3 miler from you know where

I don't quite understand how a 3 mile run can be so hard?  Last night Wenzyl and I hit the pavement at about 2030 for a quick  run.  The weather was cool, but there was a lot of moisture in the air, which made for muggy conditions.  I felt heavy, hot, and my muscles seemed to be tight?  I started to get frustrated.  I know taking 4 days off probably didn't help, along with the muggy weather; but still... I'm in shape, I shouldn't be feeling like this?  I should have just ran a 6 miler, I'm sure I would've felt a lot better?  I know if may sound crazy, but I'd rather do a 6 miler over a 3 miler any day?  Does anyone else feel the same?

Today, I'm planning on getting in a 6 miler and nothing less.  Mileage is starting to decrease with the race approaching.  I'm planning on doing a 22 miler this weekend, which will be my last long run before the big day. 

This week I'm going to focus on drinking as much water as possible... and doing so until race day. 

Happy Running!

Me Mamia

Mom and I celebrating my RN pinning!

So I got a call from my mom the other day.  "Cory, I'm going to start running, I got my running shoes, I just have to do it... I know you love it, and well, Lenora she ran her first Marathon when she was 56, I can do this!  I'll just start out slow, run telephone pole to telephone pole (They live in the country), then walk one telephone pole, then run.  Holland (my brothers fiance) is going to do this with me.  I know I'm going to hate it... but it was hard for you in the beginning, and look at you now"!  This conversation made me very happy!  I love the idea of my Mom running!  Actually, I love the idea of anyone running... but my Mom?  She is going on her second week of running and has told me that she, "hates it"... but does it.  This is normal I tell her. It takes time for your body to become "one" (basically)

My hope is that one day my Mom and I will be able to run a 5k race together!  Maybe down the road we'll get my whole family to jump on board!  Heck maybe we could just have our own little 5k race out in the country!

Dodging Pollen

Today Wenzyl and I headed out for a run on the trail.  I decided to take my IPOD with me to enjoy some new music that Zack got for me.  It was nice to just zone out to some new tunes, and not think about anything.  I found myself focusing on the pollen that was floating cautiously through the air.  It made the miles fly by.  I found myself looking for the little nuggets of fluffiness in the distance, so I would be able to follow its path as long as possible.  A few clusters would roll off my body as I ran by, one of which stuck to my wicker.  The simple things, perfect.

The Marathon is approaching, I'm ready for the race.  I'm excited for the big day and the celebrations following.  I'm going to take a little break from running (as I normally do after the marathon).  My plan is to cross train with biking, walking, hiking and swimming.  I'm excited to change it up a little bit... I'm sure my quads will be thanking me.  I usually take a good month off from running and then I keep a 2-3 times a week schedule.  I'm thinking about possibly doing the Whistlestop Half Marathon this fall, we'll see. 

Happy Running!

 

Evening 14 miler



We're just so cool with our water belts!  Admit it! 

 My dear friend Carey came home for a visit from Seattle, and we just HAD to get in a run together.  So what do we decide to do?  Only what would be expected of the "C&C" combo... heading out for a 14 miler at 1900.  No worries, we have night vision!  Carey and I had an AMAZING run!  The first three miles were tough, we felt heavy and didn't have much energy... as the miles pressed on, our speed picked up.  Chatting the whole time, makes the miles fly by... which they did.  I'm so blessed to have such an amazing friend like Carey.  It was so refreshing to laugh with her again, to share memories, and make more of them, while running on the trail.  This girl is nothing short of amazing!  She will be running the Rock and Roll Marathon in Seattle this summer.  I'm so excited for her (and for her running partner Lisa).  To think,  Carey and I met 3 years ago, and it took me over 6 months to convince her to run with me.  Look at her now!  She's running 14 milers just for the "heck's" (inside joke ;0)) of it!  We enjoyed our runners high as we crossed the "finish line"... thanking Jesus the whole time!   Thanks for the amazing run Carey! 
Love you tons,

Happy Running! 

20 miler with the boys

Gearing up

Abe, cutting his toenails before the long run

Will, striking a pose

Abe, Will and I ventured out onto the trail at about 0900 this past Sunday.  The weather was beautiful; the sun was shining, the birds were singing, there was a nice cool breeze.  Truly it was a perfect day.  Earlier in the morning I planted water in two different spots along the trail (mile 4 and mile 9) It was perfect, I was able to fill up my water belt and the boys had enough to drink as well.  It was nice having two running partners by my side this time around.  It allows for more distraction and conversation.  We finished our run with pizza and beer on the front porch and a little cat nap.  It was a perfect end to all of our hard work.   

Running with two beasts

Tonight I ran with two beasts, one that was black and one that was white...  It was a hot run 84 degrees, the pores are clean.  Looking forward to cooler runs ahead!

Will and I enjoying a cold beer after a 6 miler

Around the corner

Grandma's marathon is around the corner, 39 days and counting!  Every year I get excited for this day.  Actually, I get excited for the whole weekend of events.  Friday, is when we head to Duluth to pick up race packets.  I know this doesn't sound like a fun thing to do, but it is.  It's an opportunity to look around at all of the other runners and feel the energy being created in the room due to excitement.  Thinking about the past 4 months, and how hard all of the bodies in the room have worked to get to this point, is something that I love to think about.  I gaze at peoples shoes, what card they are holding for their race packet (full or half), ages, conversations, shorts and tank tops on the racks, running gear, snacks, beans, gels, free stuff... the list goes on.  Just knowing that everyone in the room will be partaking in the same event, an event that's world class, an event that changes people and allows for hope, an event that I am so proud to be a part of, is enchanting. 

To think that this is going to be my 2nd full marathon, is ludicrous... being I never thought I'd even be able to finish a half marathon!  Starting out, I thought 1 mile was ridiculous!  It's amazing to think of how far I've come, to think of how my body has learned to run.  I'll never forget Miss Lindsay Leno telling me, "If you can do the half, you can do the full... TRUST ME"  She was right, and I now find myself telling others the same thing!  Accomplishing a full , (or even a half for that matter) has allowed me to realize that ANYTHING is possible if you put your mind to it.  It takes motivation, God, and good lungs!

The count down is on, and I can't wait!  I'm praying for cool weather.  In the past Grandma's seems to fall on the hottest day of the year, which if you're anything like me; is not a good thing.  The heat and I don't mix when I'm not running, let alone when I'm running.  I've pushed through half marathons in 80 degree muggy days, doing a full in this is frightening.  Sixty degrees with no humidity and light cool mist would be perfect!  The prayers have begun!

Happy Running!  

Park Point/Boardwalk 16 Miler







I love Duluth, I miss Duluth.  Lake Superior and its vastness encompasses what I feel to be a perfect setting for any adventure or passing of time.  When you put running and Lake Superior in the same sentence, this is better then cheesecake! 





Park Point, Duluth



Lake Superior

 Abe and I ran all of Park point, down to the end by the airport, maneuvered our way through the trails, onto the beach, and back, only to continue, over the lift bridge and to the boardwalk to add on an extra 4 miles.  The weather was absolutely perfect, I'm not sure on the exact temperature, but I was wearing shorts, a tank, and a light wicker.  It was perfect.

 I brought my water belt which supplied my cells with 20 ounces of water for the first 12 miles, then we made a quick pit stop at Abe's parents house (which is on the point) to fill up our water jugs, and scarf down a few dates with organic peanut butter, before pumping out the last 6 miles.  We peeled a banana and ate it on the go as we made our way to the lift bridge. 

By far this was the best run to date.  Not only was the weather perfect, but I felt amazing, and I know Abe did as well.  We kept a good 10 minute mile pace, which was perfect.  We had some good laughs, good conversations, and a nice walk on the beach to cool down. 

The Board Walk

The highlight of this run?  When we were making our way back to Abe's parents house from the board walk, Abe decided to jump on a random  kids skateboard.  Here he is, in his Grandma's Training T-shirt, balancing his 15 mile run down body on a skateboard that's moving ever so quickly on the pavement.  It was surreal and oh so fun to watch!   

I can tell that my body is getting stronger.  I remember after running a half marathon, being so sore, I had a hard time walking down stairs.  After our 16 miler, I wasn't even sore!  This is a good thing!  No injuries as of yet, my sciatica is intact and not flaring up.  Life is good!

Happy Running!

16 minus 10

I didn't get in my long run yesterday, unfortunately my running partner Abe, was feeling a little under the weather.  So we're going to postpone it for now.  My hope is to get in a long one this weekend.  Instead, Wenzyl and I ventured out in 30 degree weather, to enjoy a 6 mile run on the trails around the Forest History Center.  It was an amazing run.  The sound of the trees creaking as the wind blew, water running over rocks and the occasional critter running through the woods. It was chilly, but the air was crisp and had the smell of spring.  I noticed little buds forming on the trees, waiting to bloom, and hoping for warmer days ahead.  We came upon two quarter horses that live at the Center, I saw them through the woods, luckily I leashed Wenzyl before we came upon them.  She was a little spooked, probably because she's never seen a horse before.

 I enjoyed exploring new territory, trying to keep track of direction on the trail that was winding in and out of Red Pines, over creeks and wooden bridges.  I focused on the sounds coming from my feet, as I ran through the non-paved trail.  Crunching branches that had been covered all winter, pine needles and dirt were music to my ears.  It was refreshing to be off of pavement.  There's something that happens when you run through new areas, it's as if you can just keep going with no regard to time or energy.  Maybe it's because you don't know what's around the bend?  Time flies by and before you know it, 6 miles has passed.  I appreciate my surroundings more when they're new.  I feel like my senses are more keen and my eyes take in every little detail.  I'm excited to go back for more this afternoon!

Happy Running!

Blessings from above please!

  Today I went for a solo 5 miler, Wenzyl was getting groomed from Zack (at the Pet Wash in Hibbing), on the way to one of his appointments.  I decided to change up my pace a little bit and try out a different trail.  I guess you could say, I was still a little freaked out about the clapping incident, and being I didn't have Wenzyl by my side; I thought taking a new route would be a good thing.  I hit up the Forest History Center & Sylvan Point.  What a nice change of pace!  This trail winds through the south west parts of Grand Rapids, in and out of town and into a wooded area behind Grand Itasca Clinic and Hospital. It has little side trails that are available for exploration as well.  I saw two woodpeckers, an older gentlemen sitting on a bench (enjoying the 60 degree weather), two women walking goldens, a child riding a bike (who looked way too young to be doing so on his own), little buds sprouting on the trees , and a chipmunk.  The sun was shining, I wore my sunglasses, loaded on sunscreen, wore shorts and tank, and was still hot.  This is amazing, considering the 3 inches of snow we received yesterday!  Only in MN can you have snow one day and 60 degree weather the next.  I guess I should be thankful, the south has it much worse then we do right now.  I'm praying for the families; how devastating.  I can't even imagine.  It amazes me that there are people out there that have the guts to video tape twisters?  If I hear a warning on the radio, I am in the basement.  Maybe the reason for this is the fact that I was in a tornado at the young age of 5.  We were in a grocery store in Minong, WI. and roof of the store was ripped off by a twister.  This has made me fear high winds, to the point of hysteria.

 Last year Zack and I rolled into Grand Rapids from a weekend away in Duluth.  Above is what we rolled into.  Let me tell you... I freaked out!  Zack on the other hand, wanted to chase the darn thing down!  I drug him inside our home and pushed him in the basement when the sirens went off.  I was completely out of my mind.  Luckily we were blessed that day, the tornado didn't touch down. 

Yesterday I found myself being slightly irritated at the fact that it was snowing, when the day prior I was laying on the beach in warm sand.  I know that I need to be thankful for what I'm given.  I know this... but often times, I forget.  I guess sometimes it takes a reminder; one of tragedy to make you realize how truly blessed you are.  Each day is a gift, even if it is snowing, or raining, or freezing cold.  We need to embrace what we're given, because in a second it can be ripped away from us. 

Dear Lord, I'd like to lift up the families that are dealing with the tragedies of the southern weather.  I pray that you protect them Lord, that you surround them with your Angels and keep them safe in your arms.  I pray that these wicked storms are pushed into an area that have none of your children in its path, that these storms are blown away into oblivion.  Lord, I pray that you put your loving heart over the families that have lost loved ones, I pray that you give them strength during this hard time, and hold their hearts with your forgiving hands.  Please Lord, surround our world, our lives with your love and protect us.  I pray this in the name of your beautiful Son, Jesus Christ, Amen. 

18 Mile Munger Trail Run

Sunday morning Abe and I ran 18 miles on the Munger Trail in Duluth, MN.  We started our journey near the Munger Inn.  This trail actually follows the same route of the railroad that saved many lives in the historic Hinckley and Cloquet fires in the nineteenth century.  The trail is paved and weaves in and out of rock, trees and creeks; a nice change of pace from the Iron Range terrain.

It was a cool morning to start, which I guess should have been expected; considering the blizzard like conditions that were present when my alarm went off at 0700.  We postponed our run until 1000 in hopes that the thin layer of ice and snow would melt by the time we hit the trail.  Luckily, our wish came true.  The trail was clear for the most part, there were a few different areas that were still covered with snow, but overall at least 99.8 percent of the trail was clear.

We saw some hawks flying overhead; scouting for their next meal, we spooked two deer, and enjoyed the fresh air.  With a temperature of about 38-40 degrees, our water consumption was minimal.  I drank about 20 mL of water and ate a few energy beans, but for the most part, I felt amazing during the whole run.  I don't even think I hit the infamous "wall"!  This is a very exciting thing for me! 

The best part of the day, we met Zack and my uncle Jerry at the Anchor Bar in Superior, WI. to enjoy a burger and fries (something that I haven't had in almost a year!)  What a treat!  That along with a Two Hearted Ale, a hot tub and a cat nap in the car on the way home, made for a perfect day!  I'm looking forward to taking it easy this week, with some 5,6,7 mile runs.  I'm taking today off from running and am getting ready to head out for a nice hike with Wenzyl and Zack.   

Happy Running! 

Some people should just stay home

My uncle Jerry has a simple quote that I find to be so true, "If you're not having fun, go home!"  If I had the guts, I would've LOVED to tell this to a particular women who was walking on the trail this afternoon. 

So here is what happened.  I'm running along with Wenzyl, (who I don't leash).  I have nothing to worry about;she's friendly and people love her... unfortunatly this women did not LOVE Wenzyl, or the day (so it seemed).  She was just down right nasty to me, she said, "Your dog better not F-in jump on me" LEASH IT!!  She kind of got in my face when she said this.  It was quite sad to be honest, her eyes were all blood shot, she was wearing black from head to toe, she just wasn't happy at all!  The only come back that I could think of was, "God Bless You"!  As I continued on my way, Wenzyl followed, not knowing that someone had so much hatred towards her.  I feel bad that she was so angry about the situation, I guess my choice would've been a more tactful way to go about things, but that's just me. Who knows, she could've been having an awful day.  It makes me think that maybe I should start to leash Wenzyl?  I love the fact that she can just run around free, and that most people embrace her happy go lucky grasp she has on life. Well for now, I guess I will just keep my eye out for those with a dark ora.  

On the bright side of my run, I heard the frogs chirping away in the pond, watched Wenzyl chase two mallards (I think they were mallards) and shoed a beetle out of my car.  Things are blooming, growing, and people are coming out of their homes after a long winter!  It's spring!

The heat is on

One of the many mine pits on the Mesabi Trail

 Shorts, a tank top, sunglasses and sweat, this is what I've been waiting for, or is it?  The heat was surrounding us today, and I could feel it sucking all the energy out of my muscles.  I guess this will take some getting used to.  I'm not a fan of hot weather to begin with,  I guess that's why I'm a MN girl!  Fall is my favorite time of the year, I appreciate cool days when the sun is shining, and can handle hot dry days when I'm not exercising.   A perfect running day for me, is about 56 degrees, partly cloudy, a cool breeze and an occasional mist in the air.  Is that too much to ask?  Don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining about today's balmy temperature of 66 degrees, I'm just not accustomed to it; that's all.  In looking back on some of my past blog entries, I found myself running in 13 degree weather,  66 degrees, is a nice change of pace.  I guess when it comes down to it, the heat just gets to me.  Maybe it's the feeling of being "swampy" as I like to call it.  Or perhaps it's the feeling like I can't cool down, which may tragically result in my face actually exploding.  Either way, I know that the heat definitely takes a toll on my performance, (if you want to call it that).  Mr. Will Richter on the other hand, embraces the heat, and can't wait for the hot and muggy days ahead.  I'm still confused by this need? 

Today, Will and I pumped out a 6 mile run on the trail.  All of the snow is gone, which is great, however the remnants of a logging expedition from last fall is still littering the trail.  It will be nice once it's swept up and taken care of.  Miss Wenzyl enjoyed immersing herself in every possible mud puddle, running up to strangers (being sure to show off her new "muddy coat"),finding logs, a dead squirrel, and matted piece of hair.  She keeps us laughing, and reminds me that it's just not okay to "give kisses" after something like that.  

I took a hike earlier today with a friend, we spooked 3 deer and I almost stepped on a snake!  Yes, a snake!  Luckily, my girly high pitched scream and tap dancing get away spooked it back into wherever it was heading. Spring is officially here!  

Grand Rapids entrance to the Trail

Sometimes it's Hard to be a Runner

Sometimes it's hard to be a runner, giving all your love to just one sport.  Even though Tammy Wynette understood the difficulties of being a women, I often wonder if feel the same about running.  Yesterday Will and I pumped out an 8 miler on the trail.  Starting out, we were slow, and... CRABBY!  I felt heavy and not in the mood to be running.  Having a headache and being tired didn't help matters any, although about 4 miles in the tables turned.  We finished out our run with smiles on our face and energy.  When I think about it, this is the case most of the time.  I can't ever remember heading out for a run, finishing; and not feeling good about it.  It's that "natural high" I guess that keeps me coming back for more. 

I'm so thankful to have a running partner (Will) by my side.  It's such a nice change of pace to have someone to talk to!  Plus, he's pushing me with my pace, and oddly enough I'm enjoying that as well!  I'm gearing up for a 14 miler next weekend with Abe.  I'm traveling to the Duluth area, and I believe we're going to hit up the Munger Trail.  Does anybody know if the snow is cleared off of it yet? I'm really excited to enjoy our first run together!  We have a lot of catching up to do!

In the mean time, I'm going to focus on some short runs, 4,5,6 milers this weekend and next week.  It's refreshing to see so many people out and about enjoying the nice weather we've been blessed with.  Yesterday, we saw two different groups of people walking on the trail, which is a lot for the trail.  Wenzyl and her wet muddy self enjoyed running up to them to show her love.  This morning as I sip my hot strong coffee, I've watched 5 people either walk by, run by, or being pulled by (from their dog).  It's just nice to see people moving their bodies!  That along with the tips of tulips popping up in the yard are the things that I adore about spring.     

Happy Running everyone!

Collateral Circulation

CAD- Coronary artery disease, is one of the leading causes of death in our country.  When the coronary vessels become blocked with plaque, our body formulates "collateral circulation", a kind of detour around the blockage in order to maintain function.  Unfortunately, these vessels are small and often times don't open, therefore this "detour" will close over time.

With physical exercise, (Strenuous physical exercise) such as running, our bodies formulate collateral circulation that is open all the time, due to the increase in oxygen demands.  I find it amazing that I have a back-up system of vessels that are simply being utilized for performance, not to save me from having a heart attack!  This, along with my ban of fast food for the past 5 years, I believe I am heading in the right direction!

 Today, I ran a nice and easy 4 mile run with Wenzyl.  We went on the trail and enjoyed being surrounded with the smells of the earth waking up. I would guess that 85% of the trail is open, with small patches of snow here and there.   The temperature reading in my car was a perfect 52 degrees.  I sprayed on some sport sunscreen on my way out the door, grabbed my sunglasses and enjoyed clearing my mind.  It's fascinating how running takes a different turn when you're surrounded with nothing but woods, the sky, the smells of the earth, the occasional bird flying overhead, your dog, God, and your breathing.  This is what I've been waiting for!

Happy Running and circulation building everyone!