Words to Run By

My Day at the Arnold

2012-03-07T19:50:00.000-05:00

Finally. I get to tell you about my day at the Arnold SportsFestival. But, before I say anything else, I would like to say a huge THANK YOUto the FitFluential Team and to GNC for the opportunity to go! It was a greatday, and I am very thankful to be a part of such an active, supportive andmotivational community.

After writing the release that was this post - in which youall responded with more love, kindness, compassion, understanding,encouragement and heartfelt stories of your own then I could ever imagine,thank you - I found myself actually excited to go to the Arnold. My plannedeight mile training run didn’t go so well on Saturday morning due to my kneeacting up so I ran a few errands instead and rushed home to get ready to headto the Columbus Convention Center. I was nervous, no doubt, and must have askedmy husband about 5,000 if my hair looked alright. He kept saying yes, by theway, but I was still worried about it.

I don’t live very far from downtown and as I exited thehighway to make my way through the maze of streets to get to the ConventionCenter (I was convinced if I took the alleyways, I would avoid traffic) andimmediately ran into a wall of traffic. I inchedto the convention center and parked ($8, a bargain because I saw some spots for$40), arriving later in the afternoon than I had originally planned.

The wall-to-wall traffic turned into a massive sea of peopleas I made my way to the Media Room, where I picked up this exciting package:

I have to admit, I never felt so cool! The staff in themedia room was so friendly and helpful, they asked what I was reporting on andwhen I clearly didn’t know that answer, they were all very quick to sit downwith me and tell me about the events taking place and how to get to them. Theyalso told me cell and internet reception was minimal to non-existent in theconvention center and going outside had not proved to be any better.

I was pretty upset with that. I didn’t get to meet up withany of my fellow FitFluential Ambassadors because I had no way to contact them!I was thinking about you all day, though, ladies and scanning Media badges likea mad woman to find you.

I left the Media Room and headed out into the sea of people,trying to make my way to the GNC booth. Icannot even explain to you how crowded it was. You cannot move inside the expo,if you do, you are inching. Literally. I am not exaggerating. I have beento the Arnold before, but I felt like this year it was far more crowded than Iremember. I really wish they would consider moving it to a bigger venue in Columbus.I feel that it has really outgrown the space at the Convention Center.

It is difficult to get up to the booths, let alone talk toanyone, but I eventually made it to GNC. I introduced myself to a few of therepresentatives there, but it was very hard to hear. I also did not get manypictures due to the crowds.

From GNC, I meandered around checking out vendors andfitness celebrities.

I saw Lou Ferrigno (better known as the “IncredibleHulk”), which was pretty cool. His arm muscles are GIGANTIC:

Lou Ferrigno.

Stacy Kennedy (Editor-In-Chief of Oxygen Magazine) and beautiful peopleeverywhere:

I did feel uncomfortable around a lot of the competitors, models and vendors. Kind of like that feeling that you don't "fit in" quite right. I couldn’t get to the main stage to watch any of thelifting competitions, but I couldsee the stage (Does that count for anything?):

Some cool dudes demonstrating Kardio Kraze (um, I wouldn’tmake it in this workout, not a chance; I can hardly run normally on a treadmill):

And, I ran into my friend Kristina Grogan who was a BikiniCompetitor and representing Max Muscle:

I did some networking, handed out some business cards andtold as many people who would listen about FitFluential and Pace Per MileRadio!

I also got to watch some great events, ones that I do notget to see very often. I watched girls gymnastics (amazing that they are solittle and they can flip like that), some martial arts (so dedicated) andlastly, fencing. Which I became enthralled with and wanted to try myself!

I even took a little video (Hint, hint: I have beenexperimenting with V-logs – yikes!) and no, I am not in it. I would show it to you here, but it is horizontal and should be vertical. Oops. Who knows how to fix that? Besides asking the whole Arnold to come back so I can try again.

So, all in all, I had a great time at the Arnold and I amforever grateful for the opportunity! I am just bummed that I did not get tomeet up with my fellow FFAs or have the ability to move more freely in theexpo. I did, however, make some greatcontacts and looking forward to hearing from or working with new companies inthe future.

Have you ever been to the Arnold? If so, what did you think?

Until the next mile marker,

Ohio's Pace Per Mile Report for Week of March 05, 2012

2012-03-05T19:47:00.000-05:00

You can also listen to my report on Pace Per Mile, the 1st Place for Endurance Radio HERE.

This is Sara from wordstorunby.comreporting on the Ohio race scene for Pace Per Mile Radio. I was hoping tobring you a live report from the Arnold Sports Festival this past weekend, butit was extremely crowded and cell and internet reception was less than idealinside the Convention Center. However, the sights and sounds were electrifyingas Columbus hosted over 18,000 athletes and 175,000fitness enthusiasts. Stay tuned to my blog for a recap of my weekend.While I have a few days to recover from the Arnold, itwon’t be long until another great event comes to Columbus.

Me and Figure Competitor, Kristina Grogan

If you are going to be in here this weekend, join Fleet Feet Sports for a great community event featuring OlympianAdam Goucher and Tim Catalano. On Friday, March 9 at 7:00 p.m. Adam and Timwill be speaking at Thomas Worthington High School in Worthington. All arewelcome to attend. On Saturday, March 10, join Tim and Adam for a short runat the OhioHealth Westerville clinic at 8:00 a.m. and then head to Fleet Feet Sportsfor a Q&A session followed by a book signing of Running the Edge. Check outthe Facebook Event Page for more details, including the Grand OpeningCelebration at Fleet Feet’s new location at 1270 E. Powell Road in Lewis Center. I hope to see you there for thisawesome event!

On Saturday, March 10theEpilepsy Foundation of Greater Cincinnati will be presenting the Emerald Miles 5K Run/Walk. This scenic course starts at Newport on the Levee, crosses theOhio River, loops through Sawyer Point into Cincinnati and then returns to theLevee. The race starts at 9:00 a.m. and the cost ranges from $15 - $30. Convenientparking is readily available in Levee’s garage for a nominal daily fee. Whileyou are there, grab lunch and make a day of it by visiting the Newport Aquarium– it is wonderful! For more complete details and to register visit www.cincinnatiepilepsy.org/emerald-miles.

On Saturday, March 10 in Cleveland the St. Malachi Run 2 Miler and 5 Miler. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. The 2 Miler begins at 9:00a.m. and the 5 Miler begins at 9:45 a.m. The 2012 St. Malachi Run will beginand end at St. Malachi Church located at 2459 Washington Avenue in Cleveland. You canregister online until 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 09 for $19. Race-dayregistration begins at 7:30 a.m. on March 10 for $25. Participants will receivea Long-Sleeve Customized T-Shirt and a Post-Race Party & Awards. Proceedsbenefit the St. Malachi Outreach Missions, which help underprivileged youth,families and the terminally ill. Please visit www.hermescleveland.com fordetails and to register.

Until next time, you can find meat wordstorunby.com to share your race day stories or offer feedback. Thanksfor listening to Pace Per Mile Radio and see you atthe next mile marker.

Celebrate Week #12: Cap City Half Marathon Training Report

2012-03-05T10:38:00.000-05:00

This week, CELEBRATE a Sparkly Soul!

Check out MY Sparkly Soul Headband that I won a couple of weeks ago from the lovely Elle at Eat Run Sail! I love them! Thanks, Elle and Sparkly Soul!! Have you tried Sparkly Soul Headbands? Do you like them? So far, I do because it has not slipped off my head, but it also is not so tight that it gives me a headache. Perfect.

This training week was oh-so-not-good. I ran four miles. Thewhole week. Ouch. In more ways than one, actually. I set out for an eight miletraining run with MIT on Saturday and made it not even one mile before myknee decided it wasn’t going to work anymore. It hurts every time I putpressure on it. It still hurts today and I am still shuffling around. I washoping it would be better and that it just needed to rest.

I am trying really hard to be positive andthink:

Pin It

How was your training week? I am so proud of the Lucky 13's who ran eight miles for the first time!! You guys are going to rock at Cap City! I can't wait! :)

Until the next mile marker,

The post I hate to write.

2012-02-29T12:14:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the billiontieth draft of the post I hate to write. It should be no surprise to anyone that I struggle with my self-esteem.Sometimes on a daily basis. Sometimes it’s hard to talk about. I have struggledwith my weight since I graduated from college – and my health has sufferedgreatly. I’ve lost weight, gained it back, lost more and have gained some backmore recently. I swore I would never go back, yet, life happened and I did.Sometimes I wish I could start over and never get “that way” to begin with.

With the start of 2012, I became a FitFluential Ambassador,which has been an amazing opportunity that I am just beginning to explore. Ihave met so many wonderful, encouraging, inspiring, admirable – and more thanbeautiful – people. I was immediately excited to be a part of the FitFluenitalcommunity, but upon seeing my colleagues, I also immediately felt like I didn’t“fit in.” And, please understand, no one made me feel that way. In fact, theother Ambassadors have been nothing but kind, supportive, helpful andpassionate about their (and my!) role in the fitness community.

I started thinking about why I felt like I didn’tfit in – and I realized it was because of the way I think I look.Fat and Ugly. Ew. That is just unpleasant to even say. For me, it is solelybased on my looks, yet when I think about other people that I know or haveseen pictures of, their looks are not foremost in my mind. Things like their personality, kind-heartedness, dedication, attitude and intelligence are.So, what is different about me?

I went back to read about what a FitFluential Ambassadorreally is. I was pretty sure Fat and Ugly people were not accepted. Itsays, “We choose our FitFluential Ambassadorsbased on myriad factors, but, we are looking for the best of the best. We handpick our Ambassadors based on their content, attitude, audience and potential.We encourage our Ambassadors to be active on as many social media platforms aspossible, and we take that into consideration when evaluating an application.However, we know that everyone starts somewhere. A solid positive attitude,great personality and compelling content will get you started.”

Nothing about looks. Everyone does have to start somewhere.

I kept reading. I knew it hadto be there somewhere.

“We will not only choose ourFitFluential Ambassadors based on audience reach and content quality, but alsoon attitude.” And “We want fitness fanatics of all kinds. If you are juststarting your fitness journey or have been pursuing a healthy lifestyle foryears, we want to hear from you. Is your passion running? Yoga? Kettlebells?Crossfit? Pilates? Zumba? Spinning? Triathlons? Marathons? Dirty Mud Races?Mountain Climbing? – whatever gets you moving and sweating, that’s fine by us.”

Still nothing. My passion is running.

Bottom line? “BeYourself. There are no rules here, other than: ‘BeNice, Be Positive’.”

Nothing about looks. Not one thing. Be positive.

Still, why am I so obsessedwith the fact that I don’t “look like I should?” And what thehell shouldI look like anyway? I know it involves skinny. It should involve healthy.I hate being so centered on my looks.

With the Arnold Sports Festival coming up this weekend,I am hoping to have the opportunity to meet some fellow Ambassadors in person.How awesome will that be?! Awesome, I’m sure. Except I don’t look like anAmbassador should. There it is again. My self-doubt. Front and centerin my mind. Maybe I shouldn’t go? I might be an embarrassment – to myselfmaybe?

I am trying. I love running, coaching and what both have done forme. Believe it or not, I am better than I was. It’s the weight I don’tlike. I can lose it, I know, but what to do until then? Beating myself upeveryday of my life is not working so far.

Lord knows (and everyoneelse) that I don’t look like a runner. I always look the same, as a matter offact:

BLECH?!

I need to get over this. I need to see myself as beautiful again. My husband does (he has to?). My dad does (he has to?). My sister does (I think). My mom thought I was beautiful. My friends do (I think some might). Ugh.

Truth is, it's more than looks, I think. I don't believe in myself. I don't believe I can be pretty or beautiful or athletic or fit.

Last night, I did something to change that.

I got my hair done! Cut! They took off more than six inches. Color! Dark brown with rich, caramel highlights. Style! Okay, I'm having trouble replicating the lose curls, but I'm working on it!

Everyone does have to start somewhere. My passion is running. Be positive.

I ~~love~~ like it. There, I said it. Out loud. About myself. I think it is pretty, even.

Does it make me look like an Ambassador? No. Why does that matter?! I DON'T KNOW!

Do I feel a little bit better about myself? Yes. Does that count for something? Absolutely.

What do you think? Can you relate? Do you struggle with self esteem, but write a fitness, running, health or weight-loss blog? ~~Am I out my mind?~~ ~~Do you like my hair?~~

Until the next mile marker,

Ohio's Pace Per Mile Report for Week of February 27, 2012

2012-02-27T23:29:00.000-05:00

You can also listen to my report on Pace Per Mile, the 1st Place for Endurance Radio HERE.

This isSara from wordstorunby.com reporting on the Ohio race scene for Pace Per Mile Radio.It’s an exciting week here in Columbus as we welcome athletes from around theglobe to the Arnold Sports Festival. Good luck to all the competitors thisweekend! And, if you are going to be in town, there is still time to registerfor the Arnold 5K, which includes admission into the expo. Hope to see youthere!

Slainte! Is Gaelic for “Good Health” and is used whendrinking a toast over a frosty pint. Come celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at theSt. Patrick’s Day 4 Miler at Kinsale. The race is on March 10th at the KinsaleGolf and Fitness club in Powell, Ohio. The race starts at 6:00 p.m. and the fully-supportedcourse is open for 80 minutes to accommodate all runner and walkers. The raceis $45 through March 09 and $50 on race day if not sold out. All participantswill receive a technical gender specific event shirt, Finisher’s medal, Firstbeer (for those 21 and over) and a ticket to see the Reaganomics post-raceconcert and celebration. The Reaganomics are the Midwest’s most exciting 80’sdance and party band so you don’t want to miss out on this fun event. I’ve runthis race before and it just keeps getting better every year. On March 10th,look for me on the course as a volunteer. Register at www.premierraces.com.

On March17th, Flannagan’s Bar and Ultrafit-USA is hosting the St. Patrick’s Day 5K at 9:00 a.m. Thepre-race breakfast starts at 7:00 a.m. Flannagan’s is located off the 270 outerbelt in Columbus at Sawmill and Snouffer Road. The course winds through nearbyneighborhoods and finishes up just in time for the biggest ALL DAY St. Patrick’sParty you have ever seen! All participants will receive a good bag consistingof a long sleeve technical shirt, EAS Nutritional product, race number,pre-race breakfast and an all-day pass to the Flannagan’s party. The entry feeis $38 or $45 on race day. The first 150 men and 150 women will receive aspecial beverage mug to recognize your accomplishment. Register atwww.premierraces.com.

And Cuyahoga Falls,Ohio is gearing up for the Shamrock 15K and 5K races on March 11th at WoodridgeHigh School at Noon. Both races are challenging and all finishers deserve a bigpat o' the back when they get done. And while race directors’ promise there'sno pot o' gold at the top of the Northampton hills, many runners treasure thechallenge of doing them. The 15K course is tough and ventures down into the Cuyahoga Valleythen back up to finish. The 5K course has rolling hills and still presents achallenge to runners. Register today at www.active.com. Race fees range from $30-$35.All finishers receive a medal and post-race refreshments.

Until next time, you can find me at wordstorunby.com to share your race day stories or offer feedback. Thanks for listening to Pace Per Mile Radio and see you at the next mile marker.

Stay Connected:

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Celebrate Week #11: Cap City Half Marathon Training Report

2012-02-27T10:05:00.000-05:00

This week, Celebrate the hard run.

Source

As hard as that may be. This weekend was brutal for our long run. Don't let anyone fool you. With the gale force winds, it felt like 18 degrees outside.The Lucky 13’s ran into the wind on the way out and on the way back. Idon’t know how the wind was blowing in both directions, but I assure you,it was. It wasn't easy – in fact, it was downright hard – but, wedid it. I appreciate the hard runs because without them, I wouldn't know what a truly good run felt like. The hard runs make the good runs thatmuch better. If I would have skipped out on running this Saturday (and believe me, I thought about it) I wouldn't have run 7 miles at all and that would have made me even more miserable. Next time the sun is shining and there is no wind, I am running –like tonight!

My Weekly Training ReCAP:

WED 02/22 - 3 mile training run in 44 min; 14:49 min pace per mile.
SAT 02/25 - 7 mile MIT training run in 1 hr 44 min; 13:29 min pace per mile.

How was your training week? Was it windy where you were? Do you mind running in less than ideal conditions or do you embrace it?

Until the next mile marker,

In Case You Missed It:

Google Friend Connect (GFC) is going away at the beginning of March! Check out THIS post to find out how you can still stay connected to me and your other favorite blogs. Don't miss out!

GF WHAT?! Is Going Where?!

2012-02-22T15:19:00.000-05:00

You've heard the rumors, no doubt. First Picnik and now GFC. That's right, Google Friend Connect (or more commonly GFC) is going away at the beginning of March. GFC is Google's tool that supposedly makes it easy for users to join (or "follow") your site and interact with other users.

If you're like me, you said GF WHAT?! You know, this thing:

My lovely followers.

Frankly, I enjoy seeing the numbers go up (I don't think they have ever gone down, actually), but I don't see what GFC does that is so special. Mostly, I am worried about losing subscriptions I have through GFC when it goes away. I have heard this only applies to non-blogger (a.k.a. Wordpress blogs). Then, I realized that most blogs I keep up to date on, I follow in multiple ways so maybe it won't be so bad. And, if you are using Blogger already, supposedly your GFC subscriptions will stay in your Google Reader.

Bottom line for me and you? There are multiple ways to follow along and while I will be phasing out my GFC tool, you can find me in these other ways (all located on the left sidebar!):

Social Media (Who doesn't love it already?)

Twitter
Facebook
Pinterest

Networked Blogs (We do everything on Facebook anyway)

More lovelies.

dailymile (It's free and a great community)

Feed Reeder or Direct Email (I used to not like this option)

(But now I think I do because you can choose your reader)

And now....

Linky Followers (I don't really know what I am doing yet)

So, follow me someway, somehow! Just be sure that if you currently follow me through GFC and you are not using Blogger that you do one of these things instead if you want to stay connected. If you use GFC and want to try Linky Followers, you can find more information at their site HERE. Or, you can hop on over to Jenn's Adventures because she said all of this in her Tech-y Tuesday Column this week much more elquently than I ever could.

And of course, you can find me (and subscribe to my reports via RSS feed) at Pace Per Mile Radio and through FitFluential.

Until the next mile marker,

Are YOU Running Inspired?

2012-02-21T16:40:00.000-05:00

Little known fact about me: My running career (if you wantto call it that) actually began in middle school. I joined the Cross Country teamin 7thgrade only because it was not called Track and thereforeimplied I did not have to be fast. Then I found out the team name wasthe Huskies and once again worried about the fast part. I was pretty sure therewere not any slow Huskies hanging around. I ran Cross Country for a season ortwo, I was slow – usually last to finish – but I had fun. I had friends on theteam and looked forward to spending time with them (someone tell me exactly how that is different from today). Ijoined the marching band in high school and didn’t really think twice about running.

In college, my roommate took Running as her gym credit and Ithought Seriously?! She’s going to runfor a semester?! Ugh. I took swimming instead and then I took weightlifting. Anything to avoid having to run aroundcampus. That sounded too hard and she was getting up before the sun. Not me.After college, I made several attempts to startrunning (it was never start running again),but never followed through. Most notably was when I signed up for the ColumbusHalf Marathon several years ago and then drove my car from my house to work oneday and noticed that my odometer said 10.9 miles. Not even a half marathon? Nothardly. I never even made it to that startline.

In 2009 I started running again, this time training for ahalf with the help of a training group, Marathoners in Training. And, I guessyou could say it stuck. Often times, I look back on what was different aboutthat time than all the others. Why did I keep running? I firmly believe it wasbecause I had the encouragement, advice, support, guidance and instruction fromtop-notch coaches and veteran runners to help me. They taught me to run.Without MIT, I felt like just another idiot trying to run laps around the parkwith absolutely no idea what I was doing. Whoknew you had to learn to run? Apparently not me.

I get a lot of questions about running – people want to knowhow I run, why I run, where I run, do I run by myself or with friends, what doI wear, what do I eat, how far and how fast but mostly, other people want toknow how I started running and how I stickwith it. I am fortunate enough to have access to an awesome training group andmany experienced runners and coaches, but I also know that not everyone is solucky. For people who aren’t in Central Ohio, I wish there was a place I coulddirect them, a good resource for a good running start. After all, there isno reason for us not to run. It issimple, you don’t need a lot of gear, it doesn’t have to be expensive and anyone can do it. Yes, anyone.

Iwas recently given the opportunity to read and review The Ultimate Beginner's RunningGuide: The Key To Running Inspired by Ryan Robert. Enter my great resource! In fact, Ryan’s book is written for people who want to getoff the couch and get running.

As Ryan sums it up, his book will help the beginning runner:

Run with good form for maximum efficiency and to avoid injury.
Build a powerful mental training program that includes a running journal and visualizations.
Select the right shoes and gear for different conditions and weather.
Eat simply, with suggested menu items.
Get past embarrassment and being self-conscious.
Prevent and treat common running injuries.
Find support and encouragement in the running community.
AND MUCH, MUCH MORE.

What I like most about Ryan’s book is that it is simplistic in nature. If you arelooking for great detail or have been running for years, this book is not for you. Who is it for then? The completebeginner, someone like me who is going from nothing to jogging a few days aweek in an effort to maybe lose weight, get in shape or maybe take on a newchallenge. In fact, Ryan’s book offers several training plans based on multiplereasons why someone may take up a running program: Active Beginners, Non-Exercisers,Weight Loss, and People 50 and Over. I wish I had copies of this book to handout to people when they say, “I’m too (fat, old, busy, slow) to start runningnow.” If it can be done (which it can because I did it), Ryan will help youfind the way.

For someone who has a lot of experience running, this bookmay seem too general or not detailed enough, which is what I first thought whenreading it. Then, I thought back to myself when I first started running – I literally had no idea what to do if therewas a raindrop, let alone if I had an ache or a pain. Proper footwear? Whaton earth does that mean? I have tennis shoes, right?

While reading, I immediately started to change how I wasapproaching it. I imagined myself back, almost three years ago, when I didn’tknow anything. What would my old selfhave wanted to know more about? It was then that I realized this book is anall-inclusive guidebook for the beginning runner. In fact, I wish I hadmultiple copies to distribute to my new running friends.

Some of the topics that I found particularly helpful wereMechanics, including proper running form, stretching (with examples), heartrate and training zones (I really wish I knew more about this in the beginning)and the importance of proper footwear. Ryan also talks about self-consciousnesswhile running and how to overcome it – definitely worth the read! Once you getthe basics down, the book goes into a little more detail about improvingperformance with hill running and staying motivated. Finally, Ryan discussesnutrition, hydration, how to run in adverse conditions (rain, hot, cold, wind)and common injuries, including treatment. Ryan in no way claims to be a doctoror medical professional, but gives you enough information to determine if youhave a serious injury as well as some basic tips to alleviate pain anddetermine whether or not you should keep running without further medicaladvice. All of which are invaluable for the first-time runner.

On a personal note, I found Ryan’s nutritional guidelinesespecially valuable because they are very similar to my own personal nutrition(when I am fully on track) even though I feel like I seldom find anyone whoagrees with me. He promotes a clean diet (free of processed, boxed andsugar-laden foods) and encourages the consumption of complex carbohydratesincluding whole grains and pastas as well as vegetables. What I value is thatRyan encourages increasing the amount of proteinwe ingest when beginning a running program. I have to pay particular attentionto this because of my insulin sensitivity – I must pair a complex carb or asimple carb (such as fruit) with a protein to aid in proper digestion. I find alot of runners back off on protein, especially before a long run, but I feellike I am often doing just the opposite! Ryan also discusses alternativeprotein sources (and I do get tired of meat) like beans as well peanut and nutbutters. He includes simple meal plans to get you off to a healthy, inexpensiveand simple start.

So, I know from time to time I get new runners following my blog. This book would definitely be a great resource for you to get off the couch and get moving! You can find it through Amazon.com HERE. It's only $2.99 and you certainly can't beat that. You can also visit the book's Facebook Page to stay up to date.

Until the next mile marker,

Ohio's Pace Per Mile Report for Week of February 20, 2012

2012-02-20T19:13:00.001-05:00

You can also listen to my report on Pace Per Mile, the 1st Place for Endurance Radio HERE.

This is Sara from wordstorunby.com reporting on the Ohiorace scene for PacePer Mile Radio. As you may or may not know, February is the month tocelebrate women’s heart health. Heart disease is the number one killer of womenand more die of heart disease than all forms of cancer combined. Heart healthawareness is important to me for many different reasons, but mostly because mymother worked so hard to turn her health around and take care of her heart,despite a family history of this terrible disease. Exercise, good nutrition andrunning helped her make positive changes to her health, greatly decreasing her risk for heart attack andstroke over the last several years of her life. My mother was passionate abouttaking care of her heart, as we all should be. Visit the American Heart Associationtoday to find out more about Go Red for Women and heart healthy advice.

This week we’re celebrating Heart Health Awareness with The Greene Goes Red for the American Heart Association 2 Mile Run and Walk inBeavercreek, Ohio on February 26 at 9:00 a.m. What better way to promote a healthy heart than with a briskrun or walk? This movement celebrates the energy, passion, and power women haveto band together and wipe out heart disease, which I firmly believe in. Registrationis $20 up until race day, although shirts cannot be guaranteed after February18. All proceeds benefit the American Heart Association. When you finish therace, visit the Health Fair at Urban Active Fitness. “Greene Money” will be offeredto the Top 3 Overall Male and Female finishers and all entrants are eligiblefor door prizes, courtesy of The Greene. Visit www.thegreene.com for more information.

There’s still time to register for the Green Jewel 50K Fun Run on Saturday, March 03. The Green Jewel 50K is a running event thatshowcases the Cleveland Metroparks. Youwill run from the Scenic Park(near the Marina) in Rocky River to the Oak Grove Picnic Area in Brecksville.Registration is $70 through February 29 and space is limited. This is a fun runand while the finishing time doesn’t really matter, participants of the 50Kmust finish in less than 7 hours. Registration is online only at www.eventbrite.com. I have never run an ultra-marathon,but if anyone is running this race, I would love to hear about the details!

Until next time, you can find me at wordstorunby.com toshare your race day stories or offer feedback. Thanks for listening to Pace PerMile Radio and see you at the next mile marker.

Stay Connected:

Never miss a state report again! FOLLOW Pace Per Mile and Words to Run By on Twitter. Plus, stay up to date on endurance news, giveaways, contests, tips and training advice. Also, LIKE Pace Per Mile and Words to Run By on Facebook.  

Celebrate Week #10: Cap City Half Marathon Training Report

2012-02-20T09:33:00.000-05:00

This week, Celebrate The Arnold Sports Festival!

Source

In two weeks, the Arnold SportsFestival will be coming to my hometown of Columbus, Ohio. I’ve been to theArnold before and let me tell you, it is a weekend packed with sports,activities, events, competitions and fitness vendors from all over the country.I had no idea the magnitude of this event until I visited it a couple of yearsago. It.Is. Huge! That doesn’t even describe it.

I’m planning to go again this year and I couldn’t be moreexcited. I am looking forward to hooking up with some of my FitFluential colleagueswho I know will be in town for the festivities. I have yet to meet a FitFluentialAmbassador in real life so I amjumping at the chance to do just that in just about two weeks! Not to mention,I get to explore the sights and sounds of the largest fitness expo that I knowof. It’s going to be a crazy weekend, no doubt! Don’t forget, the Arnold 5K ison Sunday March 4. The Pump and Run is sold out, but you still have time toregister for the run (through race day if it doesn’t sell out)!

My Weekly Training ReCAP:

WED 02/15 - 4 mile training run in 55 min; 13:41 min pace per mile.
SAT 02/18 - 3 mile MIT training run in 41 min; 13:29 min pace per mile.

It was a long week, not enough running. That about sums it up for me. What about you? How did your training week go?

Are you planning to visit Columbus for the Arnold Sports Festival? If so, let me know in the comments!

Until the next mile marker,

Our Love Story Link-Up

2012-02-14T10:11:00.000-05:00

Michael, Me & our pups!

1. How long have you and yoursignificant other been together?

Wait?! I have a significant other?! Yes, friends, he does exist! Michael and I have known each otherfor ten years?! Yes, I guess that isabout right. We dated on and off for a few of those years.

Michael.

2. How did you meet? {What's your"love" story?}

I started working at the same store Michael was working atover summer break (from college) because a friend of mine worked there. I raninto him as he was coming out of the back and introduced myself (Please Note: Hisversion is that I leapt in front of him, blocking his path and not onlyintroduced myself, but announced I was studying Criminal Justice. I maintainit did not happen like this). I was instantly attracted to him and longstory short, we started dating about a month before my 21st birthday –after he swore up and down he would not a) date anyone he worked with and b)date anyone under 21. I must have been lucky!

3. If married, how long have youbeen married?

Our fifth wedding anniversary willbe in July.

4. If you are married, where did youget married at? Big or small wedding?

We had a small wedding inWesterville, Ohio, which is where I grew up. We got married at a church and hadour reception at the Everal Barn and Homestead. It is a beautiful site. Includedon the National Register of Historic Places, the Everal Barn it is named forone of the earliest families to settle the area. We had a small, afternoon wedding, and sincethe Everal Barn is dry, it worked out perfectly because people could continuethe celebration afterwards, if they wanted. We took my Dad’s ’77 Charger to thewedding and reception. It was so much fun! We served a family style dinner, hada DJ and a traditional Slovak cookie table, which my Mom baked for. We gotmarried on 07/07/07 – again, I must have been lucky! ;)

5. Doyou have any nick-names that you call one another? Do share!

We’renot the nickname type. Although, Michael does like to yell “Hon!” from whateverroom he is in that I am not. Does Michael count? I am one of the few thatactually calls him by his full name! He introduced himself to me as that and itstuck.

6. Name 3 things you love most aboutyour honey.

He isthe total opposite of me! I can always count on him to shed a different lighton almost any situation we are in. He encourages me to “think outside the box.”
He hasan adventurous spirit.
He values marriage the way I do.

7. Tell us how he proposed?

Heproposed under the fireworks on July 4, 2006. The Fourth of July is my absolutefavorite holiday, and I love fireworks. He waited until about halfway throughthe show and then he got down on one knee in front of me and said, “Sara, willyou marry me?” I was so excited I couldn’t decide if I should look at him, thering or the fireworks. I remember saying “Yes!” and people around us werecheering.

He normally does this at fireworks!

8. Is he a flowers and teddy bear kind of guy for v-day, or strawberries, champagne, and rose petals?

We normally don't do anything special for Valentine's Day, but Michael is not a flowers and teddy bear kind of guy. He is romantic, though, and likes to cook a candlelight dinner. He cooks the best homemade pizza!

9. Are you a sunset dinner on the beach kind of girl, or pop a movie in and relax on the couch?

Once in awhile, we enjoy a nice evening out to dinner, but we are more likely to pop in a movie and relax on the couch. Michael does sweet things that he knows I enjoy like taking me to the zoo or to art festivals.

Other times we just get matching tattoos.

10. Tell us one thing you'd like to do with your significant one day. If you could do anything? Go anywhere?

I would sail around the world with Michael. For now, we canoe the Ohio waterways.

11. Tell us what you plan on doing on this Valentine's Day.

Nothing special! We will probably cook dinner together and maybe watch a movie. And, he probably won't mind if I go for a run, which is another thing I love about him! ;)

12. Are you asking for anything this Valentine's day?

No. We don't exchange gifts on Valentine's Day. I am just happy we both have the evening off!

13. Give us one piece of advice of keeping a relationship strong and full of love.

Tell one another "I love you" everyday and mean it. A simple hug and a kiss can go a long way to make someone feel loved. Michael would like you to know one thing - Patience! And that is all.

14. Show us a picture of what love means to you.

Happy Valentine's Day!

Until the next mile marker,

In Case You Missed It:

Ohio's Pace Per Mile Report for Week of February 13, 2012

2012-02-13T19:27:00.000-05:00

You can also listen to my report on Pace Per Mile, the 1st Place for Endurance Radio HERE.

This is Sara from wordstorunby.com reporting on the Ohiorace scene for PacePer Mile Radio. It may be the season of love with Valentine’s Dayliterally just around the corner, but this Ohio Reporter is talking Zombies!

That’s right, Zombies. On October 06, the Zombie Buffet 5Kis coming to none other than Columbus, Ohio. This is a unique road race thatputs you right in the middle of a Zombie apocalypse where you will come face toface with the undead in a “run for your life!” Don’t worry, though, if you don’t“use your legs and lose your brains,” or flags, actually, you can stillcontinue on as one of the undead in a race to claim the most flags beforefinishing. Hurry over to zombiebuffet5k.com for details and alternate locations– registration opens March 5!

And, while it may not be the Zombie apocalypse, Cincinnatiis gearing up for Pigs – Flying Pigs that is. The 14th Annual Flying Pig Marathon, Half Marathon and Relay are taking place on Sunday, May 06. Why aflying pig you ask? In the 1800s when riverboats piled on the Ohio River, Cincinnatiwas a center of Western commerce. Agriculture was a prime source of revenue inthe area and boats filled with livestock would dock in the city to sell theirwares. Hogs were a major source of income for farmers and so many were broughtin by boat and marched through the streets to be processed it literally became known as a“Porkopolis.” In 1988, when Cincinnati celebrated its Bicentennial, the citydecided to renovate its riverfront area to include a “Bicentennial Commons.”The designer created four smokestacks forthe city’s riverboat heritage with four flying pigs on top, reflecting thespirits of the pigs who gave their lives so that the city could grow. Today,the “Cincinnati Flying Pig Marathon” logo, swag and medals are prized possessionsfor runners from across the country and globe, so much so that Runner’s World magazine has dubbed itthe “best named” marathon in the country. Don’t wait to register to claim yourpart of Cincinnati history, visit www.flyingpigmarathon.comtoday for complete details.

Are you still trying to decide if you want to run theColumbus Marathon on October 21? Don’t wait; registration is open and fillingup fast! The marathon recently announced the 2012 full-marathon course willinclude a run through Ohio Stadium. It’s the same flat, fast course ourmarathoners have come to love, but this year, runners and walkers will enterthe stadium from the southeast corner and head down the same ramp that OhioState football players use to take the field. Then, participants will cross infront of the south stands before exiting the stadium via the southwest rampthat OSU opponents use. There’s no better time than now to be a Buckeye!

Until next time, you can find me at wordstorunby.com toshare your race day stories or offer feedback. Thanks for listening to Pace PerMile Radio and see you at the next mile marker.

Stay Connected:

Never miss a state report again! FOLLOW Pace Per Mile and Words to Run By on Twitter. Plus, stay up to date on endurance news, giveaways, contests, tips and training advice. Also, LIKE Pace Per Mile and Words to Run By on Facebook.

Celebrate Week #9: Cap City Half Marathon Training Report

2012-02-13T13:31:00.002-05:00

This week, Celebrate ZOMBIES?!?!?

Zombie Buffet 5K - Click image for details

That's right, Zombies! THIS is coming to Columbus on 10/06/12! Seriously, I'm excited and it's not too often that I get excited about Zombies. Here are the rules:

Zombie Buffet 5K - Click the image to find out more!

Who wants to come run it with me? How awesome would it be to have our own team?! Eeek! Make sure you visit the Zombie Buffet 5K to find out if the race is coming to a location near you!

My Weekly Training ReCAP:

SAT 02/12 - 7 mile MIT Group Run/Virtual Run for Sherry Arnold 1 hr 14 min; 14:25 min pace per mile.

Yet another week when my non-running life took over. Yet another excuse that I feel very guilty about. Just running my long run on Saturdays is not okay! Back. On. Track. This. Week.

How was your weekend? Did you run for Sherry?

Until the next mile marker,

My Run for Sherry

2012-02-12T12:58:00.000-05:00

Race: Virtual Run/Walk for Sherry Arnold

Distance: 7 miles

Time: 1:42

Yesterday, I ran in memory of Sherry Arnold. No I didn't know her personally, but she was a fellow runner that died in a horrible way and left many behind who loved her.

Yesterday, it was bitterly cold in Central Ohio – for the first time this winter. It was about 17 degrees outside, but it felt more like –5 degrees with the wind-chill. It was the first time the Lucky 13’s had ever run in such harsh conditions and they excelled – they got out there and got it done! It was miserable, though, my thighs and right side went numb from the constant icy wind. Both are “burned” and bruising from nearly two hours of constant battering. It is days like these that make me wish I ran a whole lot faster.

To be honest, I wanted to quit more than once during this run. But I didn’t. Because it wasn’t an option. I even had an out. I could have waited at the Mile 2 water stop for Duane and the rest of the group to circle around and lead them back from there. But I didn’t. Because I was running for Sherry. I ran every step for her. I shared most of my run with my friend Keri and we talked about Sherry for a little while. When the cold was really getting to us. I thought about how I could handle –5 degrees when Sherry will never get to run again. That hit home pretty hard. And I stopped complaining. I was running, and I wasn’t going to stop.

Me and a few of my fellow MITers.

This run was for you Sherry Arnold. We will never forget.

Did you run for Sherry? If you did, stop by SUAR's blog and take about 30 seconds to complete this survey. And let her know how your run went too.

Until the next mile marker,

Looking for Tasty AND Healthy Nutrition Bars? Try PureFit!

2012-02-10T16:30:00.000-05:00

I was recently given the opportunity to review theAll-Natural, Award-Winning PureFit Nutrition Bars. The good folks at PureFitwere kind enough to send me a bar of each of their enticing flavors: GranolaCrunch, Almond Crunch, Peanut Butter Crunch and Berry Almond Crunch. It allsounded good to me! Who doesn’t like peanut butter, chocolate, almonds, berriesor some combination of them all?

I must admit, while I was excited to receive the bars (Ididn’t expect one of each!) and test them out, I didn’t have high hopes foranything I viewed as “packaged food.” However, I was impressed by what I readon the information card PureFit sent to me.

PureFit Nutrition Bars:

Are high in protein
Made with non-GMO soy
All Natural
Kosher and Vegan
Nondairy
Low Glycemic
Have a 40/30/30 ratio - (40%), fat (30%) and proteins (30%) for optimized nutrition.
Free of Gluten, wheat, artificial sweeteners, trans fattyacids and hydrogenated oils.

What you see is what you get with PureNutrition! I love thefact that they are all natural and don’t contain any artificial ingredients. Iwant to feel good about what I am putting in my body, especially when I am in ahurry. It is really easy to go for the crap, but with these bars, I can eatsomething last minute or on the go without having to worry about what it’sreally made of. The ingredients list – something I always try to look at – is short compared to other nutrition bars, shakes and gels I have at home. Also,they do not melt in their packaging (so far mine haven’t) which makes themperfect to throw in my purse, gym bag or leave in my car for on-the-gosnacking.

Today, I had the Almond Crunch PureFit Nutrition bar forbreakfast with some grapes and my morning ~~tea~~ coffee.

What I like? The taste! It had just enough crunch to it, and I could really taste the almonds. I like "things" in my food! I could really see (and taste!) the pieces of almonds, which is a must for me! The Peanut Butter Crunch was my least favorite because there was not enough "crunch" to it for me. The Berry Almond Crunch was also good and perfect for morning.

See the almond pieces?

Breakfast is always astruggle for me. I don’t eat right away and then I get busy with work or with whateverI am doing and forget (or am too lazy) to eat something decent before lunchtime.When lunch rolls around, I am extremely hungry and sometimes grumpy, whichmakes it hard to make smart choices. I tend to overeat when I don’t eatbreakfast. PureFit takes a huge step in helping me with this problem. I cankeep a few at my desk or in my purse for those mornings when I’m not feelinginclined to eat healthy. I ate one today at about 7:45 a.m. and combined withthe grapes, I was good until about 11:30 a.m. when I was hungry and ate lunch.I wouldn’t have lasted too much longer than those 4 hours.

What do I love even more than the taste? The nutrition! TheAlmond Crunch Bar has 18 grams ofprotein, 7 grams of fat and 24 grams of carbs. I really need to watch theamount of carbs I ingest at one time and this bar falls perfectly within myguidelines for a snack/meal. Win-Win-Win. PureFit Nutrition Bars are good for a people with a variety of health and dietary restrictions.

PureFit Nutrition Bars are reasonably priced($34.35/box) and you can purchase them online or at a local retailer. You can also check their website for special offers. Give them a try, I think you would be pleasantly surprised too!

Until the next mile marker,

*Please note, I was not compensated in any manner for this review. Five PureFit Nutrition Bars were given to me in exchange for my honest opinion. The views expressed in this review are solely my own.

Running for Sherry

2012-02-09T22:49:00.001-05:00

I was in Florida the day Sherry Arnold left her quiet home in Sidney, Montana for her normal early morning run. It wasn’t until several days later when I returned home and was getting caught up on blog posts when I read from her cousin Beth at Shut Up and Run that Sherry never came home. I didn’t know much about Sherry, but my heart fell into the pit of my stomach when my mind immediately thought, “She’s not coming home.” I knew even less about Sidney, but I was pretty sure nothing like this ever happened there.

Still, I continued reading all the updates I could find and praying and hoping that maybe everything would turn out okay. Maybe she was struck by a car and it was just a matter of time before someone at the hospital could identify her and call her family. Maybe she was hurt and moved away from the road and someone would find her nearby if they kept looking. Maybe Sidney was just a whole lot bigger than I thought and she had to be somewhere.

Sherry Arnold has been presumed dead. Two men charged with aggravated kidnapping are being held. All the authorities have found was one of Sherry’s running shoes near the spot where she disappeared.

I know first-hand what it feels like to have someone close to you ripped out of your life without warning. I can’t imagine what it feels like to have that person ripped violently away. My heart aches for her children, her husband, her family, her friends, her students, her neighbors and her community.

I think of Sherry often, in fact. My mind wonders and I pray that she somehow found peace in her final moments here on this Earth. Was she scared? I know I would have been. Did she fight? For her life. What was she thinking? I wouldn’t even know where to begin. Was she strong? Without a doubt. Why? There has to be a reason, right? Did she know someone would look for her? Absolutely she did.

This type of thing always happened to someone else’s mother, wife, sister, cousin, friend, teacher or neighbor. And it certainly didn’t happen to a fellow runner. My heart was filled with sadness for the person that was lost. How could this happen?

Still, the news of Sherry’s death really hit home when I started thinking of my own safety and the safety of those around me. We take so much for granted everyday. We become one with our routine and we throw caution to the wind. It will never happen to me. It will never happen to my friend. That kind of thing doesn’t happen around here anyways.

I was standing in the kitchen talking to my husband about what happened to Sherry and I said, “At least you always know where I run.” He stopped what he was doing and said, “No, I really don’t.” I stopped what I was doing. He wouldn’t know where to look for me. So many times I run out the door without even saying what direction I’ll be heading. I just assume he knows. Not anymore.

Within the last few weeks, there have been multiple reports of a suspicious person on the trail where I run at least once or twice a week. He is making people feel uncomfortable; getting too close to them, mumbling unclear things, walking just off the regular path. The police are aware, but nothing as happened. Yet. I hope nothing ever does. Yet, I think about the people that use that trail every single day. I think about the people who haven’t heard the warning, who aren’t paying attention, who don’t think they have anything to worry about because they run there all the time. Run alone? Not anymore. Not for awhile. What happened to Sherry could have happened to any one of us.

I have also experienced first hand the love and support that the running community harbors. We are an amazing group of individuals. We’re not selfish and we don’t shy away from tragedy. We dive in, head-first and help those who are left pick up the pieces and try to carry on. We remember. And we want the world to remember too.

Beth has organized a virtual run for Sherry this Saturday, February 11 and all she asks is that you run, walk, skip, hop, skate, bike, roll, or glide a little ways to remember the beautiful person that Sherry was. Sherry was a runner. And what better way to remember her than to go for a run. Wouldn’t she do the same for any of us?

Click to print your own bib!

I will be running seven miles this Saturday, and I will be thinking of Sherry as I run. Not just of the horror that was her death, but of what I know about the goodness she brought to those who knew her. I will be thinking of her children, her husband, her family, her friends, her students, her neighbors and her community. I will be praying t hat they might find some small comfort in the fact that she was so loved. Even by those who have only known her through words. Like me.

The next seven are for you, Sherry. May you rest in peace.

Until the next mile marker,

Celebrate Week #8: Cap City Half Marathon Training Report

2012-02-06T12:21:00.001-05:00

This week, Celebrate Giveaways!

Wrist Saver

Manna Bread

I have been really lucky lately, which is totally unlike me! First, I snagged the Personal Savers Wrist Saver from I Run ... Because I Can. I haven't had a chance to try this out yet, but I am super excited about it! I previously carried pepper spray on my fuel belt, but it constantly bounced out of the holder and I wouldn't discover it was lost until who knows when. I tried on the Wrist Saver and it is very comfortable and features an LED light and ID tag too. Love it. I was also fortunate enough to win the Manna Organics Bread Giveaway from Women's Endurance Gear. I was hesitant at first about how the bread would taste, but I had always wanted to try sprouted bread. Also, I was worried because I don't eat bread very fast, but when I found you can freeze it, I was in! I selected the Banana Walnut Hemp, Millet Rice, Multigrain, and Sunseed. I have tried the Banana Walnut Hemp and Sunseed. Absolutely. Delicious. I don't want store-bough bread anymore! It costs $15.40 to build your own box of four varieties, and I think this is where I will get my bread from now on!

My training week was okay. Unfortunately, this was one of those weeks when my non-running life completely overshadowed my running life. I didn't get as many runs in as I would have liked and it was beautiful and mild here! I am so excited that my Lucky 13's ran six miles on Saturday - a first for many! They have come a long way in such a short amount of time.

My Weekly Training ReCAP:

WED 02/01 - 2 mile training run in 29 min; 14:38 min pace per mile.
SAT 02/04 - 6 mile MIT training run in 1:26; 14:11 min pace per mile.

Total Miles Logged in January 2012: 47

Until the next mile marker,

In Case You Missed It:

Listen to the latest Pace Per Mile Radio Report for Ohio. You don't want to miss out on these exciting events!

Ohio's Pace Per Mile Report for Week of February 06, 2012

2012-02-05T23:08:00.000-05:00

You can also listen to my report on Pace Per Mile, the 1st Place for Endurance Radio HERE.

This is Sara from wordstorunby.com reporting on the Ohiorace scene for PacePer Mile Radio.

While the weather has been mild here in Columbus, it’s stilljust brisk enough outside to cook up your favorite pot of chili, which bringsus to our first stop in Cleveland, Ohio where they are gearing up for the Chili Bowl Classic. This 5K race takes place on Saturday, February 18 at the Tower230 Bar & Grille at the Tower City Center. Registration opens at 8:00 a.m.and the race starts at 9:00 a.m. All participants receive a long sleevet-shirt, chili samples from various Cleveland Area Fire Stations (be sure tovote for your favorite!), and breakfast, beer and drink specials courtesy ofTower 230. Pre- registration is $18.00 through Friday, February17th at 9AM. Spectators can also sample and vote for their favorite chili for $5. All proceeds go to the Metro Burn Center. For more information visit www.hermescleveland.com.

Looking for something new and fun to do in the greaterColumbus area? Premier Races and Ohio Health have teamed up to launch a new 5K,10K and 15K training series called Scioto Miles. The races take place on March31and April 22at 9:00 a.m. for both event dates. A $75 entryfee gets you not one, but two races to help you tune up for your spring half andfull marathons. Registration for these events is still open and the next 1,000who register will receive a free Brooks Essential Run Jacket. Not sure if youcan make both events? Don’t worry, you can sign up for the dates individually,but you don’t get the jacket. Headquarters for the race series is at COSI (Center of Science and Industry) in downtown Columbus. All participants receivea short sleeve technical race shirt with their registration. Visit www.premierraces.com to register orfind out more!

Until next time, you can find me at wordstorunby.com toshare your race day stories, offer feedback or just to say hi. Thanks forlistening to Pace Per Mile Radio and see you at the next mile marker.

Stay Connected!

Winner! Winner!

2012-02-02T14:24:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to Suie!

She had this to say about beating the winter blues...

Suie please email me at sara@wordstorunby.com no later than Thursday, February 09, 2012 with your name and mailing address to claim your BLOC MODENA BLUE W71 SUNGLASSES from SunglassesShop.com. If I haven't heard from you by then, random.org will chose another winner!

Thank you to each and every one of you who entered. Also, thank you to SunglassesShop.com for providing me with this awesome giveaway!

Until the next mile marker,

Celebrate Week #8: Cap City Half Marathon Training Report

2012-01-30T12:06:00.003-05:00

This week, Celebrate Blog Buttons!

You may have noticed, I have been working on re-designing my site. I still considering switching to self-hosted Wordpress (but am afraid to "take the plunge") and since Picnik is going away in April (this I am not happy about), I decided to try my hand at "designing" before making any major moves anytime soon. The lovely and talented Jenn over at Jenn's Adventures has a beautifully designed blog that I absolutely love and she also writes a Tech-y Tuesday column, which I find very informative since I am ~~a little~~ technologically challenged. She wrote a post about how to design a Blog Button, but I was ~~still having trouble~~ totally lost, apparently. Jenn is also just about the sweetest person you will ever meet so she helped me set up my buttons. She is pretty-much my blogging hero.

Aren't they beautiful?! If you think so, grab one! And go to Jenn's site and grab hers while you are at it!

I had a great training week - it felt so awesome to run, relatively pain free!!

My Weekly Training ReCAP:

MON 01/23 - 2 mile training run in 30 min; 15:00 min pace per mile.
TUES 01/24 - 2 mile training run in 27 min; 13:33 min pace per mile.
SAT 01/28 - 5 mile MIT training run in 1:14; 14:21 min pace per mile.

I wish I got one more day of running in, but I felt great on these runs, especially the 5 mile run so I am more than happy. Watch out Cap City - we are going to rock this race! :)

Until the next mile marker,

In Case You Missed It:

Enter my SunglassesShop.com GIVEAWAY! You have until TOMORROW!

Fun with 11 Random Things...!

2012-01-28T23:40:00.000-05:00

SO Lisa over at TurboTurtle (LOVE the name of her blog, by the way - I'm a turtle too!) tagged me in an 11 Random Things Post. Thanks, Lisa! And, I was tagged by the lovely Jen my BBFF (Blogger BFF) over at From Fat to Finish Line in her Randoms Post.

The Rules

Post these rules.
You must post 11 random things about yourself.
Answer the questions set for you in their post.
Create 11 new questions for the people you tag to answer.
Go to their blog and tell them you’ve tagged them.
No stuff in the tagging section about you are tagged if you are reading this. You legitimately have to tag 11 people!

I'm bad at lists that involve myself, but here goes ...

11 [hopefully] Random Things:

I skipped Eighth Grade Grammar because the teacher said I didn't need it (but feel free to point all of my grammatical errors from now on). I got to work on special projects instead. That was awesome.
If you ask me to edit/proofread/review/"look at" something of yours, I will tear it to pieces (with only your best interest in mind, of course)
I refer to Tarantulas as mammals because they are furry.
I have an obsession with pens. The more, the merrier.
I have an obsession with notebooks. The more, the merrier.
Snow White is my favorite Disney movie of all time.
My favorite thing I ever did was Barrel Race.
I don't pay much attention to TV or movies.
I love the ocean.
I can type phenomenally fast. I need to figure out my WPM.
I have never been skiing.

My Answers to Lisa's Awesome Questions:

If you could change your first name, what name would you choose? Catherine (NOT Cathy!)
Do you have siblings? If so, how many? I have one sister.
What's your favorite flavor of ice cream? Chocolate Toffee Chip from Graeter's.
Milk chocolate or dark chocolate? Milk.
What's your dream job? My dream job is to be a writer.
Do you take compliments well? Nope.
What is your favorite physical attribute? Um...well...geez...my legs?
Which article of clothing do you own that always makes you feel beautiful? I felt beautiful in my wedding dress, even though I won't ever be able to wear it again!
Dogs or cats? Both?! If I had to pick Dogs because I have two right now.
Have you broken any bones? Which ones and how old were you? I have never broken any bones.
Absolute favorite vacation spot (or dream vacation spot)? St. John (U.S. Virgin Islands)\

My Answers to Jen's Awesome Questions:

What was your first job? I was a waitress at a local diner.
If you could only hear one song for the rest of your life, what would it be? Um...anything country?! My favorite is Blake Shelton's Austin or anything Johnny Cash.
Favorite quote or saying? “He's more myself than I am. Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same.” -Emily Bronte
Disney World, Vegas or a cruise? Cruise! I love the ocean!!
Your favorite "kid" movie? Snow White
Celebrity crush? Johhny Depp (When he plays Jack Sparrow)
Dream race? NYC Marathon
Favorite blog? You have to ask?! It's a toss-up between you and Eat Run Sail!
Italian food, Greek Food or Asian? Asian.
Favorite sports team? I don't have one? (Okay, now I am just starting to sound lame!)
What was your first concert? I believe it was George Strait.

You're It: *If you've already been tagged (most of you probably have!) or wish not to participate, no worries! I was wracking my brains trying to find 11 of you that have not already been tagged!!

Elle at Eat Run Sail
Ashely at ashley & dizzle
Kali at Finishing Firsts
Kim at Gluten-free is Life
Sarah at Couch to "Athlete"
John @ Pleading the Phyth
Amy at Finish Strong
Yvonne at Half Past Wonderful
(I realize this is probably a violation of the rules, but...)
(Anyone who wants to answer my questions and hasn't been tagged although I don't think there are any of you left?!?)
YOU! (Yes, I realize this is the lazy way out. I have been working on this post for two days now. TWO!)

Your Questions:

What is your favorite thing to cook?
What is your favorite book?
What is your favorite distance to run?
What is your favorite season of the year?
What is your favorite holiday?
Do you like to make lists?
How many states (places) have you lived in?
How long have you been blogging?
Who is your biggest inspiration?
What is your favorite animal?
What is your favorite (non-running) outdoor activity?

Until the next mile marker,

Ohio's Pace Per Mile Report for Week of January 23, 2012

2012-01-27T19:44:00.000-05:00

You can also listen to my report on Pace Per Mile, the 1st Place for Endurance Radio HERE.

This is Sara from wordstorunby.com reporting on the Ohiorace scene for PacePer Mile Radio. Have you finalized your race plans for 2012? I think Ihave! Although I am racing light this year, I would love to see some of you atsome of our local races. Check out my 2012 Race Schedule at wordstorunby.comand let me know if you plan to be at any of them too

Are you still trying to decide on a spring half marathon? Ormaybe you are looking for a training race to keep you motivated to reach yourgoals? The Capital City Half Marathon taking place on May 5 is on record paceto sell out this year! Register now at www.capitalcityhalfmarathon.com.The entry fee is $75 until February 14, but don’t wait that long! Cap City alsofeatures a Quarter Marathon, 5K Run/Walk and Kid’s Mascot Chase. Cap Citypromises to be “The best tour of Columbus on two feet,” so if you’ve never beento Columbus or have lived here your whole life, this race is for you – there will even be champagne and chocolate foryou at the Finish Line. You can also LIKE Cap City on Facebook to receive thelatest race updates.

Get ready because the Arnold Sports Festival is once againreturning to Columbus March 1-4. The 2012 Arnold Fitness EXPO, located at theGreater Columbus Convention Center, will feature 700 booths of the latest insports equipment, apparel and nutrition and a stage that hosts unique, non-stopcompetitions and entertainment that combine to make the Arnold Fitness EXPO theheart of the Arnold Sports Festival. The EXPO is just $15 a day and offersnon-stop entertainment.

And, of course, the Arnold hasn’t forgotten about usrunners. Registration is still open for the 5K Run-Walk event that begins at9:15 a.m. on Sunday, March 4 at the north end of the Convention Center. Registration for theArnold 5K remains open through race day. Cost is $30 until Feb. 24 and $35 between Feb. 25 and March 3. Findmore information at www.arnoldsportsfestival.com.

Until next time, you can find me at wordstorunby.com toshare your race day stories. Thanks for listening to Pace Per Mile Radio andsee you at the next mile marker.

Stay Connected!

In Case You Missed It:

Enter my SunglassesShop.com GIVEAWAY today! You have until January 31!

Beat the Winter Blues Giveaway!

2012-01-25T10:36:00.000-05:00

As far as winters in Ohio goes, we’ve had a pretty mild one sofar this year. Still, the dreary skies and drab scenery really have a waywearing on your after awhile, especially if you are in the Midwest like me. It’sdark when you go to work and dark when you get home. Seeing the sun is a rarity– if it isn’t snowing outside, it’s probably raining or sleeting or maybe evenboth. There’s a saying that if you don’t like the weather in Ohio, wait fiveminutes and it will change. The part no one tells you is that it usually doesn’tchange for the better.

Weather like this makes it hard to get out of bed on somedays, let alone get outside and go for a run. We’re no stranger to the blueswhen it’s wintertime in Ohio.

How many of you also live in a pace with long, cold, dark winters?Well, no matter where you live, I’ve got a cool giveaway to cheer you up andBeat the Winter Blues!

SunglassesShop.com contacted me to host a giveaway of a pairof BLOC MODENA BLUE W71 SUNGLASSES! They look like this:

Info from SunglassesShop.com

The glasses are actually a blue frame with brown lenses,which I think makes them pretty and stylish:

Info from SunglassesShop.com

You can find more information, giveaways and savings at the Sunglasses Shop Facebook or Twitter Pages.

How can you make these sunglasses yours? Enter today to win!

Mandatory:

Tell! Leave a comment detailing your favorite thing to do to Beat the Winter Blues. What gets you motivated? Keeps you feeling happy? Puts a smile on your face? (+1)

Optional (Please leave a separate comment for each):

Share! Tweet it, Blog it, Facebook it, etc. (+1 each; Leave a separate comment for each)

You have until the end of the day on January 31, 2012 to enter. Winner will be chosen by random.org and announced here on February 01, 2012. Good luck and thank you to all who enter!

Until the next mile marker,

Please note: I was not compensated in any way to host this giveaway. I was contacted by SunglassesShop.com directly and asked if I would like to participate. The opinions expressed in this post are entirely my own.

Celebrate Week #7: Cap City Half Marathon Training Report

2012-01-23T13:12:00.000-05:00

This week, Celebrate the run!

Next up up on my race calendar is the Capital City Half Marathon. Cap City is the officialspring Half Marathon of MIT so I am looking forward to running it with my Lucky13 Team. This event is more than a great, fast race; it is also a celebrationof athletes, young and old, fast and slow. And since Columbus is celebratingits Bicentennial this year, Cap City is destined to be a party we won’t forget!

My pace group hasbeen working hard at training for just about seven weeks now, but I am justgetting back on board with Cap City training since I have been recovering fromthe Goofy. I still have a long (and probably slower than usual)road ahead of me so I am not setting any PR goals for this race. I’m back tosquare one, which is in my opinion a great place to be with all of the newrunners in our group. I plan to finish this race running strong with a 13:00minute per mile pace.

My Weekly Training ReCAP:

SUN 01/22: 2.5 mile training run ; 15:11 pace

It's slow, but it's a start! For as much as my toe is still bothering me and the snow was treacherous, I'm so glad I got out and ran. I'm looking froward to resuming training this week.

Stay tuned for my upcoming "Beat the Winter Blues" Giveaway and this week's Pace Per Mile Report!

Until the next mile marker,

Pace Points: Wintertime Training

2012-01-22T08:30:00.000-05:00

Although we had a good run of mild temperatures and sunny days, winter weather has inevitably settled in over Central Ohio. In fact, the first ice storm of the season made an entrance late last night, leaving the streets and sidewalks covered in a slippery glaze this morning. Weather like this not only makes driving dangerous at times, but also leaves running trails and paths less than safe to walk on. I went to bed very late Friday night (or very early Saturday morning, that is) after hearing the news that MIT was cancelled due to inclement weather – the first time that has occurred since I began running with them. While this is a smart call to keep all runners and walkers safe and injury free – on the roads in transit and on the trails – for newer runners or those that may have not previously trained in the winter, it poses an interesting challenge to getting in the scheduled workout.

Ice on my sidewalk!

I remember when I trained for my first half marathon with MIT over two years ago, in my mind it was imperative that I got my workouts in as scheduled. Any deviation from my training plan, planned or not, was stressful and I was initially convinced my hard work to date would be sabotaged. Since then, of course, I have learned how to adjust or tweak my training plans and mileage to my schedule while still getting in the desired workouts and miles. Re-scheduling or modifying a planned workout is not as big of a stressor as it once was, but I understand how difficult it can be for first-time runners. For example, our Cap City Half Marathon training schedule for Saturday said two miles. At least it was a fallback week, right guys?!

So, what exactly should you do to get in your workout and adjust your schedule accordingly? Below are some of my tips to keep you moving when the weather makes an outdoor workout less than ideal:

(Even though you might really want to stay in bed like these girls!)

Treadmill up (unless you’re more like me and view the treadmill more as a dreadmill). While I’m lucky enough to have one in my living room, I don’t use it very often. However, it is more than convenient for shorter runs – like this week! I could crank out two or three miles without (too much) of a problem and without even leaving my house, which is nice when the weather is not-so-nice. If you have a membership or access to a local gym or athletic club, you could use the treadmill or elliptical there (after the roads are cleared, of course). Once in awhile, it serves as a nice change of pace to outdoor running.

Sadie probably uses this more than me!

Pop-in an aerobics, Zumba or other workout DVD. Anything that gets your heart rate elevated can be substituted for a cardio workout gained purely by running.

Focus on your strength. Develop an at-home strength-training routine. You don’t even need the equipment of a gym to be successful! Your own body weight can serve as the only tool you need to work those muscles. Some good strength training moves for runners in particular include lunges, squats, sit-ups, push-ups, planks and leg lifts. You can also use strength-training DVD’s including Yoga, core-workouts or any other of the multitude of celebrity at-home training programs.

Turn your house into your own personal gym. There are many things you can at home to get your blood flowing faster. Jog up and down your stairs, do jump-rope or jumping jacks or even give your space a swift cleaning from top to bottom. You would be surprised how many calories you burn while performing regular household tasks a little quicker than usual.

Run, Mom, Run!

Switch it up. Substitute your rest day for a day when you can’t get outside and run. For example, although MIT didn’t meet on Saturday, you could get out and run on Sunday, which is typically slated as a rest day. Spend time doing routine family activities on the day you’re home instead and make it known you plan to get out the next day for an hour or so. Most families and friends are more than understanding when you make your plans known ahead of time. Call up a friend or training partner and see if they would like to meet you to make up the miles together. This, way you stay accountable and stay moving, which is the ultimate goal.

Whatever you decide to do, don’t panic! If you miss a workout due to unforeseen circumstances, which happen to all of us at one time or another, you won’t derail your training. Pick up and get back on track the next day if you can’t make up a workout. As long as you aren’t regularly missing your runs and make the most of your outdoor runs, you’ll be just fine!

So, while you may not be able to get outside when the weather doesn’t cooperate, but you can still get a good workout in to boost your heart-rate, improve endurance, build muscular strength and flexibility and burn calories. Above all else, relax, have fun and stay safe when you do venture out this winter season.

Until the next mile marker,

Ohio's Pace Per Mile Report for Week of January 16, 2012

2012-01-19T23:55:00.001-05:00

Ohio State Report for Week of January 16, 2012

You can also listen to my report HERE.

This is Sara from wordstorunby.com reporting on the Ohiorace scene for Pace Per Mile Radio. Last week, I was out of town in sunny (andwarm!) Orlando, Florida to participate in the Goofy Challenge at Walt DisneyWorld. The challenge consists of a half marathon on Saturday and a fullmarathon on Sunday. While I did not finish the marathon, this race was anamazing experience. You can read my recap at wordstorunby.com. And, if you arethinking about running a Disney race or any other race in Florida, check outFlorida’s Pace Per Mile reporter and author of www.fearlessfood.com Chuck Freerick forthe latest information.

Although I am recovering from my 35 mile journey, there isstill racing going on in Ohio! Check out the Fantastic Frigid 5K #2 on January 28th at 10:15 in Powell. The race is $10 pre-registrationor on race day and is partnered with a free kids race for little ones 8 yearsold and under. The entire 5k loop course takes place within Concord Park. Thevast majority of the course is on a thin crushed gravel trail. A small portionof the race is on grass trail, and pavement is only touched over a couple road crossings.It's great for spectators. Make sure you dress warm because it is winter inOhio and this race promises to be a “Chillingly Delightful.” Find out more atwww.columbusrunning.com.

In exciting news, The ColumbusMarathon and Nationwide Insurance announced Nationwide Children’s Hospital asthe title beneficiary for the event. The race has also been given a new name, TheNationwide Children’s Hospital Columbus Marathon & ½ Marathon.Mark your calendars for race day on October21, 2012. Registration opens for the event this Saturday. As Ohio celebrates it’s Bicentennial this year, theColumbus Marathon continues to make an impact on the community, and to userunning and walking to not only make a difference in the lives of theparticipants’ health, but in the lives of others, too. Visit www.columbusmarathon.comto find out how and to register!

Stay warm out there! Until next time, you can find me at wordstorunby.comto share your race day stories. Thanks for listening to Pace Per Mile Radio andsee you at the next mile marker.

Stay Connected:

Pace Points: Building Your Mileage Base

2012-01-18T23:40:00.000-05:00

Without question, one of the most important things to focuson during marathon and half marathon training is to safely build a mileagebase. This is why you training plans gradually increase the weekly and long distances over the duration of the plan. The basic training for all distance running and racing is endurancetraining. This is because, as a runner, you must acquire the stamina to run forlong periods of times or for long distances. Long runs, which most people run on a Saturday or Sunday, are therefore knownas your Long Slow Distance (LSD) run.

Base building means starting from a lower base of infrequentmileage and progressing to more frequent runs including two, three or fourshorter runs and one long run per week. For the beginning runner, base building is most commonly defined bybuilding regularity in training at consistent, easy-to-moderate effort levels whilehigh-intensity training and speed work is left to more experienced runners whohave already established a base. While base building, mileage should increaseby no more than 10 percent each week (for your total weekly mileage, including your LSD)and intensity should be kept at an easy to moderate level. By following theincreases in the training plan, you are steadily building a base to help you torun strong and hopefully injury free. As you progress in your running career,the base building phase diversifies to include short and long easy runs, hillsruns and interval speed workouts.

This is called the 10 Percent Rule. For example, If you're running 10 miles a week now, and you want to increase your training, run 11 miles next week. And 12 the week after that. And 13 the week after that. This may look like agonizingly slow progress, but in just 8 to 10 weeks, you could be running 20 miles a week. Your mileage will only increase from there. For many runners, this is seemingly slow progress and the biggest challenge is often their own enthusiasm - you feel great, you want to run more and more! And at first, while sticking to the 10 percent rule may seem painstakingly slow, it will lead to astronomical amounts of running compared to where you started.

Another important factor of base building for the beginningrunner is cross-training because it serves as active rest for the runningmuscles. By alternating running days with cross-training days, your body cantrain at a higher frequency without the risk of injury from runningback-to-back days. Cycling, swimming or any other types of aerobic activity aregood cross-training activities for runners. Total body strength training one ortwo days a week to begin with can also contribute to your running success bybuilding strong muscles, tendons and joints to withstand the impact of running.Complete rest days – with no strenuous activity at all – are also important inallowing your body time to recover from your workout and be ready for the nextone.

The base building progression is different for everyonedepending on your fitness level, exercise, sleep and eating habits. Theimportant part is that you are increasing your mileage gradually andconditioning your body to run for longer distances and longer amounts of time. Following an easy progression of miles builds not only your cardiovascularendurance, but helps strengthen the muscular and connective tissues that enableyour body to tolerate long training runs. As a beginning runner,building a sound mileage base is more important than getting faster. Take it from me as a 13 minute mile Coach, slow is perfectly fine! There will be plenty of time to develop speed and agility as you progress through your running career. For starters, you must create the building blocks to keep you running healthy, fit and strong so you can get to the starting line of your first distance race.

Until the next mile marker,

Reflections of One Goofy Runner

2012-01-16T10:30:00.000-05:00

It’s been a week since I attempted the Goofy Challenge (13.1miles followed by 26.2 miles the next morning) in Walt Disney World Orlando, Florida.The pain in my feet is starting to subside, I am walking with only a slightlimp and my toe and foot is slowly growing new skin. Plus, I can breathe out ofone nostril now so it gets better everyday! I’m actually looking forward to mynext run – Saturday, maybe?! – and can’t wait to start training for the CapCity Half in May. I’ve been taking it easy, sleeping a lot and reflecting onwhat I learned from this experience. Here are my thoughts:

Sometimes your bodyjust says No. Now usually it ismy mind that says, “No. You can’t do this” or “It hurts too much” or “You’re tooslow, fat, tired, busy, etc.” The mind can be a precarious thing and negativethoughts are more than difficult to overcome once you get caught in thatdownward spiral, but physically not being able to go on is different andsomething I had never quite experienced like this before. Can you push thoughphysical pain? Is it really mind over matter? I have learned that I think youcan push through pain to an extent, but sometimes your body just stops you fromgoing on. The mind is very powerful – and has derailed my body a time or twobefore – but I don’t think wishful thinking can always make up for physicallimitations.

Blisters are morepainful than I ever imagined. Period.

Florida is not flat.Don’t let anyone tell you differently.

A DNF (Did NotFinish) is better than a DNS (Did Not Start). Thank you, Bill. And to thosefew of you that said I couldn’t, did you even try?

There is always another race to run.

I ran two verychallenging races on very little sleep. I could play the what if game over and over again (What if more sleep would have made adifference), but it wouldn’t change thisoutcome. I now know I need plenty of rest to perform at my best.

It got hot. I wasn’tappropriately prepared. Lesson learned. No matter the forecast, from now onI take at least one racing outfit for each possible weather scenario. Afterall, I had 11 pounds left in my bag before I hit the flight weight-limit.

I need to stopcomparing myself to other runners. I am not other runners, I am me. I ran my race and that is all that should matter.

“Hard” is not afigment of my imagination. This race was damn hard.

I was not in my bestphysical shape to run this race. I will be when I run it again. "THE WILLTO SUCCEED SHOULD ONLY BE SURPASSED BY THE WILL TO PREPARE." Train harder,train smarter.

Never underestimatethe value of an effective training plan. Stick to it. Learn from those whoare more experienced than you are. Everyone has a story, a lesson learned, atriumph achieved, a challenge not met. Thanks, Jeff, for making me run those 20miles the day after Christmas. I wouldn’t have made it to 22 without them.

22 miles on the heelsof 13.1 is an accomplishment, no matter how many more there were to go.

I am a relativelyyoung runner – and I dream really big. There’s nothing wrong with that, butI need to remember I took on a challenge that even seasoned runners have not ormaybe even will not.

Practice makesperfect. Even in running. This was my second marathon ever. My first onewas only about eight months ago. I have not had a lot of marathoning practice.(Never mind that Shalane Flanagan has also only run two marathons, one of whichwas setting a record in the Olympic Trials…stop comparing…).

Vacation and Race don’treally go well together for me. Not good, not bad, just a realization.

I wouldn’t trade this experience for the world. I amgrateful to have had this
opportunity.

I have said it beforeand I am saying it again now – The running community is second to none. Wherewould I be without everyone whohelped me get to and go on this journey? Some of you I personally know, some ofyou I have never met; some of you I see every week and some of you I may neversee again, but you have all made a difference. Your support, encouragement,kindness, motivation, love and advice has been a meaningful part of my journey.Thank you to: Dad, Mollie, Michael, MIT and the Lucky 13’s, Judi, Deb, Amy, Laurie,Kim C., Kim K., Kim B., Laurel, Duane, Jeff G., Jeff H., Ben, “The Bike Boys”(Chase, Joe and Adam), Julia (Pain, Pride, Perseverance), Elle (Eat Run Sail),Jennifer R. (From Fat to Finish Line), EMZ, Miss Zippy, Running to Health, Dr.Bright, Randy, Judy, Dave, Heather, Nita, Kris, Brent, Jennifer M., JenniferH., Suzi, Keri, Lisa, LeDawn, Chrissy, Julie, Mandy, Sarah, Wendy – to name a few, and I know Iforgot some! Thank you to everyone who has been with me on this journey, youknow who you are. (Is this how Grammy winners feel!?!?!)

Honestly, I am comfortablewith a DNF. Yes, of course I wanted to finish and earn the Goofy medal too,but looking at where I came from only a few short years ago, that was downrightincredible. I am proud that I gave it my all and left it allon the course. It was emotional, exhilarating, exciting, real, raw and surprisingly,healing. This for my mother and I know she was there with me every step of theway. I know she is not disappointed in me and therefore, I am not disappointedin me either.

Imay be content with a DNF in this race,but watch your back Goofy. It doesn’t end here!

Until the next mile marker,

Am I Goofy or What? Race Recap Part II: Walt Disney World Marathon

2012-01-14T23:38:00.001-05:00

In Case You Missed It:
Read the first part of my race recap HERE.

I woke up even earlier on Sunday morning. Thewake-up call came at 2:00 a.m. (and my cell phone and travel alarm clock wentoff too - just in case). I hadn't got much sleep. I think I tossed and turnedfor about two and a half hours - the only two and a half hour I spent in bed. Ihit the snooze button on my alarm for 15 more minutes.

I had to get up. I rolled out of bed put my feeton the floor. My first few steps were painful. And so were the ones followingthat. The bottoms of my feet literally ached with every step I took fromthe bed to the bathroom. Walking on my blister was like walking on shards ofglass. Cold relief on the bathroom floor, but only for a few moments.

I got dressed in the dark. My quads, calves,ankles and even my knees were feeling fine; but my feet throbbed. Theywere swollen and read and it was not pleasant stuffing them into my second pairof shoes. I hobbled to the lobby and outside of the hotel. It seemed to take forever.Not a good sign, but I remained positive, convinced that once I got the bloodflowing things would feel better. After all, I did just roll out of bed in themiddle of the night to run a marathon.

I caught the first bus at 3:00 a.m. in an effortto avoid another traffic jam and having to rush to the starting corrals, whichI was no thankful for even though it meant I had to get up early. Naturally,there was no traffic and I got to the baggage check in about 11 minutes.Perfect. I found a bench to get off my feet. It was busy in the Family Reunionarea - people rushing around to get their gear together and still others lyingon blankets trying to catch the last few minutes of sleep. I think it was tooearly for anyone to be talking much as it was pretty quiet except for the DJwho was literally blaring any and all obnoxious pop songs.

As I was getting ready to head into the gear checkwhen I remembered Stephanie from Running to Health was running her firstmarathon today. I texted her to see where she was and as it turns out, she wasright in front of the Information Tent, which was right in front of me! Inavigated the thickening crowd searching for her when I heard someone call outmy name. It was Stephanie, one of her friends and her brother, who was alsorunning the Goofy Challenge. She said she wasn't feeling well due to a cold andwas a little nervous. It was so awesome meeting Stephanie! She was nice andencouraging and everything she is on her blog - a great friend to have on yourside. I love this picture of us:

I waved goodbye to Stephanie, wishing her well andchecked my gear. Just outside of the tent, I found a self-service aid tentoffering bandages, tape, Tylenol, Biofreeze, Vaseline and a myriad of otherquick fixes. I grabbed some bandages and Vaseline and a chair. I took off myshoe and smothered my left toe and foot in Vaseline. As I was about to applythe bandages, a couple came up to me and asked me if I had a blister. They wererunning the Goofy too. I said yes and they told me not to bandage it, but to tapeit. They helped me and I did. Between that and the Vaseline, the friction on myblister was reduced, but my feet were still swollen. I resolved not to care. Iwas going whether it hurt or not.

I made it into the corral by 5:00 a.m. and waitedagain for the wheelchair start at 5:30. The waves seemed to move a lot fastertoday, maybe there were less people running the marathon. I looked back and wasable to see the end of the race and the balloon pacers behind me. I couldn't dothat yesterday. My goal was to stay ahead of them and worst case, with them.Start out strong and make my gains early. I could walk some of the second halfif I needed to, but I wanted to run hard for the first five to six miles.Mickey gave the go-ahead and we were off!

I ran hard for the first four miles. My feet werestill hurting. I started to fall back behind the pack I was running with.Quickly. A guy on a bicycle rode up next to me (I learned later he was part ofthe pacing team, we'll call him Chase) and asked me how I was doing. I smiledand said great! "Really?" he asked me, "Because your gait saysdifferently. I don't want to see you hurt. It's not worth it." I'm goingto keep going. "Let me know if you need anything, we're here," hesaid as he rode ahead, stopping to check on the next runner ahead of me. Someother bikes coasted by. I felt like I was moving slower already. Keep ittogether. Don't stop running.

Epcot (for the first time), done. Magic Kingdom,up next. Then Animal Kingdom, HollywoodStudios and back to Epcot. No problem, keep running. You've got this.

I fell in with a new pack of runners. We were slowand running just with the pacers, but we were doing it. I came to rely on thisnew group of friends for the next several miles into the Magic Kingdom and thehalfway mark. There was Manny who was also running the Goofy and he told me howthis was his first half and full marathon. There was Billy the Kid who was only14 and running the marathon relay with his mom. He was running the first half,we heard his parents cheering as we neared the Kingdom. He kept repeating thatall he had to do was stay with the balloons. "You've got this, Kid,"I told him over and over again. He told me he was chaffing and it hurt like abitch.

There was Molly who carried the balloons andnormally runs at a 14:00 minute pace. Today she was walking a 16:00 minutemile. She paces the Disney races every year. She talked about the rainytraining season they had. And several others who helped me through those mileswith little words of encouragement or stories from their own lives.

It was hot as we came into the Magic Kingdom. Alot hotter than any of the weather reports had stated it would be. The sun wasglaring off of the blacktop and I wasn't dressed for warmer temperatures. Itried to ignore the heat and the pain. 13.1 down, 13.1 more to go. The Kid wasgone. I know he turned off to finish and made his parents proud. Manny wasbehind me and working hard to keep up. I waved at him, yelling at him to keepit up and he started running again. "We've got this, Manny!!!!" Iscreamed.

The next three or four miles were surreal.Somehow, I managed to pick up my pace to a 14:00 and I was flying. I wasfeeling confident again and I couldn't have stopped even if I wanted to. Thepacers faded from my sight, a good sign. I kept running hard.

In the Magic Kingdom

Then, I crashed. My pace slowed and I was backwith pacers, Manny and the others. They caught up quick. Chase zipped by andasked me how I was feeling. "You're gaits worse, my friend and yourlimping. Tell me what hurts." My feet. My foot, a blister. All this for ablister? "Do you need a medic, Sara?" No. Just let me run.

The pacers were ahead of me as we ran into theAnimal Kingdom. It was hot and I smelled the animals. Some were out with theirhandlers to greet us. I vividly remember seeing an owl what seemed like inchesfrom my face, but that is about it. I passed another checkpoint and saw thePace Crew waving red flags. I was behind. Keep running.

I looked behind me and saw bikes only. A lotof them. I started to get scared and tried to run faster. One of them rode upto me. His name was Joe. "You know there is a hard cut coming upnext." What does that mean? "They're making cuts after the next mile.If you can, catch up to the balloons and you will be safe for a few moremiles." I'm never safe. I can't possibly catch up to them. They're wayahead of me. "Yeah, they are, but you can try your best." You'reright, Joe. I kicked it.

That mile, Mile 17, was an 11:30 pace. I caught upto the balloons, just as they made a cut. I looked behind me and saw the gateto the Animal Kingdom coming down. I saw runners on the other side, unable topass, including Manny. I waved to him frantically. "You GO, Sara!" hescreamed. "YOU GO!"

I turned my focus back to what was ahead of me. Myphone was ringing and it was my husband asking where I was because he just sawthem make a cut. I blubbered something about a fast mile. "Hang up thephone," he said, "I see you." He was there running beside mewith the pace team and I started wailing at what I know was the top of my lungs."This is my husband and I did it! This is my husband and I did it!" Idon't know how many times I said that. My sister was there too. They had bananasand an icy cold wash cloth. It was heavenly. It was perfect. I continued towail and cry and say I couldn't believe I caught up to the balloons. My husbandand Mollie faded from my side.

We were on our own again. I knew all I had to dowas keep up with the balloons. You did the hard part. Now stay here. Just takeit easy. You did the hard part. Another mile down. And another.

Joe was riding next to me again."Sara!!" he exclaimed "You did it! You're here." You! Iwailed and retold the whole Mile 17 story again. I was crying again Joe washooting and hollering. I did it, Joe, because of you. I had to try, just likeyou said. And here I am. "You keep running, girl, keep running." Joerode off.

It was going into Mile 20 now and was steadilygoing uphill. I started noticing the pain again. Still. It was hot. And I wasthirsty. Someone rode up next to me on a bike. On both sides. On the right, itwas Chase. "Sara," he said softly "Mile 20 we're making a cut,but I'm not pulling you yet. You have to run, though, run hard." I startedrunning. The balloons were gone. Where did they go? When did I get away fromthem? I must be behind. On my other side was Adam, another pacer. "Are youthirsty?" Yes, God yes. "Hang on, Sara, hang on." Chase wasgone. Adam was gone. Checking on other runners. Someone ahead of me, who Ipassed, was complaining that the bikes were too much pressure. No, I thought. Iwouldn't be here without them. Keep running.

Through Mile 20 and more red flags. I keptrunning. No one told me to stop. Adam was ahead of me, riding towards me with acup of PowerAde. Thank God. No, thank Adam. I chugged it and felt some newenergy. "You've got this, Sara. If you can make it to Mile 22 then you'llbe safe." I'm never safe. But, I made it to Mile 17 I cried hysterically!"You did! And that was awesome! You can do this too." I can? "Ibelieve in you. Look at me - I’m riding a bike. You're doing all thework here. You've got this." I do. Adam rode with me for most of Mile 21.He was talking, telling me how proud he was.

It was then that I knew I wouldn't make it to 26.2miles. I knew my race would be over at Mile 22. And, perhaps most surprising tomyself, I felt a bit of relief. My feet were hurting horribly and my blisterfelt like it had consumed most of my left foot. I kept running. Then, out ofnowhere, I started crying again. I had to do this. For myMom. "Sara, you did do this. You are doing this," Adam said.He was still there? For how long? A car rode up next to me. A squad tobe more specific. No, I thought. "You're hurting, Sara. How bad isit?" How did you know my name?

"She's been limping since Mile 4 andthis girl is still running." It was Chase. He was on my otherside. Mile 22 and a bus. I kept running. Chase circled in front of me and puthis arms out to gently stop me. I fell into them. "I know," he saidas he hugged me, "I am so proud of you, Sara." The next thing I knewJoe and Adam and Chase were all off their bikes circling around me cheering andclapping. I was swallowed whole in one gigantic hug. I think I was still on myfeet. Joe put his arms around me and told me, "I am so so proud of you.You did this. YOU did this." I think I was crying or wailingor both. My feet wouldn't work. I mumbled something about my mother.

Joe grabbed me by the shoulders and looked me inthe eye and said, "Sara, your mother is so proud of youright now. Don't you ever doubt that. You may not be okay withthis today or tomorrow or the next day or the days after that, but one day, youwill see that you did do this." I did? But, it's only Mile 22. I failed."No you didn't. NO YOU DID NOT. And if nothing else, me andthese guys don't ever forget how proud we are of you." I was crying. Ithink Joe put walked me onto the bus. He said something under his breath to theGuest Services man waiting for me on the bus. He quickly grabbed some PowerAdeand started asking me to drink it. Did I look bad? I must. The driver wasstaring at me.

I remember sitting on the bus as it startedmoving. The man who was with me was talking to me about how I was not a failureand how I gave it my all and that is what mattered. I looked athim and asked him if he ever dropped out of a race. Remind me never to ask thatagain. He said he was a professional runner in his "other" job andthat he had never attempted the Goofy because it was one really tough race. Hesaid the conditions were about the worst you could ask for on any given raceday - unexpected heat and fast. He said he wouldn't even go out for a few mileson a day like today. He said, "You can come back next year and really showGoofy whose boss!" Hell No. I'm never doing this again. "Of courseyou will," he mused. He told me every great runner has a race they didn'tfinish - they couldn't finish or weren't permitted to finish. "It makesyou real." I wasn't before? What happens next?

I called my husband and told him I was on the bus.Dead silence. He didn't have to say anything to let me know he was worried. Itold him I would see him at the Finish Line. He said he would make his waythere.

I got to the Finish Line and the aid tent. Someonehelped me off the bus and sat me in a chair. A nurse was taking my shoes offand looking at my toes. Ew. I wouldn't want to touch those right now. Adhesivetape on my skin being torn off. They had no choice. I winced and wailed somemore. "Your toe is raw, my friend," he said. Really? I had no idea. Ouch.Ouch. What are you doing to it? "Why did you tape it so much?" Idon't know! Water. I need water.

Someone put a Marathon medal in my hand. I don'tdeserve this, man, I didn't finish the race. "You ran the race. Wewant you to hold onto the memory." I didn't finish the race.

"Who here is Sara?" someone yelled. Ilooked around. There was only one other person in the medical tent. Me? Me! Itwas a woman wearing a pace jacket and she had a phone in her hand. "Callfor you!" Who? What? Me? Me!

I grabbed the phone. It was Joe! "Alwaysremember I am proud of you," he told me. I don't remember what I said.

I hobbled to the Family Reunion area, stubbornlyrefusing any assistance in the wheeled or human form and fell into my husband'sarms. He was with my sister and we didn't say much. I think I recounted thewhole race as we inched back to the hotel. Everything hurt. My feet were huge,my blister had consumed most of the bottom of my left foot and all of my pinkytoe. It looked hideous. My very first battle wound. "How did you run onthat?" someone asked me. I just did was my response.

I met my Dad at the hotel who assured me that heand my mother were both very proud of me. I told him I knew. "I didn'tquit, Dad." I don't remember what else we said.

I managed a smile when it was all over. Maybe it was the whiskey.

I didn't make the Goofy Challenge - only 35 of39.3 miles - but I would not trade this experience for the world. It wasamazing. And totally worth the pain (I still can't walk right and my toe is amess and I have a horrible cold).

And yes, I will be back to show Goofy whose boss.I can't let him be the one that got away after all.

Disney Medals.

My now full Medal Display!

Until the next mile marker,

Am I Goofy or What? Race Recap Part 1: Walt Disney World Half Marathon

2012-01-13T21:06:00.002-05:00

We arrived in Orlando, Florida last Thursday to sunshine,blue skies and 71 degrees. Hello, Florida. Goodbye, Ohio. This time I think Imight break up with you for good. We checked into Disney’s Beach Club anddropped a few things off at our rooms. Here is the view from our balcony onThursday afternoon:

We headed over to Beaches and Cream (a resort soda shop) andordered lunch before we did anything else. Here we are, sunshine really doeswonders for your mood in a short amount of time:

Me & Michael

Dad & my sister Mollie

Then we headed over to my favorite theme park – Epcot. Itwas perfectly pretty once the sun set:

And we visited some of the countries, including Norway where we rode the boat, narrowly escaping the trolls, so they say:

Yes, that is his happy face. Picture Number 11 of 5,497.

“It’s for my blog,” pretty much became the reason for everypicture I needed. Thank goodness Ihave a husband who understands (or just ignores me when other people arestaring at me taking pictures of everything).

Friday morning we woke up early and headed over to the ESPN WideWorld of Sports Complex for packet pick-up. It was only about 10:00 in themorning, but the bus was jam-packed and the lines were already getting long. Ididn’t have to wait very long to get my bib, but I did take my time browsingthe RunDisney shop and the Expo.

That's me!

Mollie & Me at packet pick-up.

Dad & Me after the Expo.

I was nervous and my stomach was upset most of Friday, whichI gather is just going to be typical for me the day before ~~a big race~~ the biggest race of my life. I keptmy diet pretty close to normal and tried to eliminate fried foods on Friday.Destination racing always proves to be a challenge in terms of food andhydrating. Thankfully, Disney allows water bottles in the park so I starteddrinking water early on and didn’t stop most of the day. It probably would havebeen smart to stay off my feet on Friday and hang around the pool, but….it was DISNEY!Mollie, Michael and I went to Hollywood Studios and rode Aerosmith’sRockin’ Roller Coaster and the Tower of Terror. Neither had a long wait and itwas totally worth it. I’m guessing all of the other runners were resting,hence, no line for me. Score?!

Michael & Me at Hollywood Studios.

And we walked along the pier at our resort. Again, why was I walking? I don't know now?!

And I convinced my husband that I needed more pictures, of course. This time it was an ordeal:

I don’t remember when I went to bed on Friday night, but I doknow that the wake-up call to get up and get ready came at 2:45 a.m. Yes, it was that early. We wanted to be down onthe bus by 3:30 a.m. I don’t think I got more than a couple hours of sleep.Mollie and I left the hotel and waited for about 15 minutes for the bus to pickus up. We chatted with other runners in front of us, each of whom were eagerlychecking their watches to see how late it was getting. We had to be on a bus nolater than 4:00 a.m. and in the corrals no later than 5:00a.m. I kept hearing it was at least a 20 minute walk (!?!) fromthe gear check to the corrals. It was, they weren’t kidding. Now I was nervoustoo and checking my Garmin. At least I had it, I watched a couple of people sprint back to the hotel to get a forgotten item.

Finally the bus arrived and we boarded, only to getstuck in a gigantic traffic jam for over half an hour. It was nearly 4:30a.m. when we unloaded and headed for the gear check, dropped off our bags andstarted the long ~~walk~~ march to the corrals. It was crowded and I could barelysee or hear anything but my sister. She stopped to use the bathroom and I stopped to use the bathroom. It felt like we were getting nowhere fast, but we finally made it to our corral - H for last! - in time for the 5:30 a.m. wheelchair start.

Me & Mollie in the starting corral.

So, it was now 5:35 a.m. and Donald started Wave 1. It was6:17 a.m. before Wave 8 started – that was us. I think I was tired before therace even started! But, in typical Disney style, fireworks went off for eachwave and Donald, Mickey and Goofy were there to cheer on all the runners. Ifelt like Disney made sure the last runners knew they were just as important asthe first runners.

We were off and headed out toward the Magic Kingdom at thestart of the race. Mollie and I separated fairly early in the race. I was feeling pretty good at first. It felt great to run andwork out the kinks and stiffness from flying, walking around, riding andsleeping in a strange bed. After the first couple of miles, I reminded myselfto slow down (more) and take it easy. This was a short run compared to themarathon in the morning. I wanted to save what I had. My plan was to relax,have fun, go slow and enjoy what was most likely a once in a lifetime race forme! I started run-walking intervals as we neared the Magic Kingdom:

I was still having pain in my right foot. And around Mile 4or 5 when I was warmed up and the adrenaline wore off, I started to feel it. Iknow I started compensating for the pain by putting more of my weight on myleft foot and I could feel a blister forming underneath my left pinky toe. Irarely got blisters (this would be the time, of course), but I figured it wasno big deal and kept running – and compensating. I saw my MIT friend, Kim onthe sidelines cheering around this time and she asked if I was okay. I said myfoot was really hurting. She told me to take it slow and see how I was feeling,that no race was worth an injury. Kim was sidelined from running the Goofy withus due to a stress fracture that was diagnosed in December. I knew how badlyshe wanted to be out there running that day. I’m thankful she was there tocheer us on because I know that couldn’t have been easy at all. To see someoneI knew at that time, though – especially a training friend – was more than Iever could have asked for.

It was completely awesome running down Main Street U.S.A andin front of the castle. To run through it was even more spectacular. Definitelysomething I will never forget:

Running through Cinderella’s Castle was emotional for me. Iwas thinking of my Mom because it was her favorite thing at Disney. She lovedDisney, especially the castle when it was decorated and lit up. I am smiling inthis picture because I like to think a small piece of her was there with me:

As we left the Magic Kingdom, nearing Miles 8-9, I started lookingfor my Dad and husband who would have more Gu for me. I saw them! And, mysister! I thought for sure I wouldn’t see her until the end of the race. Shesaid she was struggling and had slowed down. You wouldn’t know either of us washurting from this photo, right?!?

The last four miles were pretty tough. We kept ahead of the16-minute pace per mile, but just barely. I did my best to smile as we entered Epcotand neared the Finish Line:

And, we finished! For me, it was my eighth half marathon. My official time was 03:35:29 (Remember, I have 26.2 to run the following day!)

And, I hurt. I think more than I was willing to admit at that time. I immediately wanted to sit down and get off my foot. My blister was a lot bigger than I had originally thought and appeared to be taking over the bottom of my left foot already.

Once I was able to move, it wasn't pretty. I hobbled back to the hotel with the help of my husband and immediately took an ice bath. My first and only, I will say. THAT was horrible! By this time, my blister had developed a pulse of it's own (for the first time, that is) and my husband did his best to patch it up with mole skin. It was pretty big already.

Ice baths are NOT fun!

And, of course, I still didn't stay off it. Again, was I thinking?! No, it was DISNEY! We went to Chef Mickey's to celebrate:

Another 13.1 done!

My salad.

If you've never tried the Napkin Dance, you're missing out!

And, we had a visit from Goofy himself - LOVE this picture!

And then, my husband and I hobbled around the Magic Kingdom and visited Snow White's Scary Adventure (my favorite!), the Haunted Mansion, Space Mountain and a few others. It made for a long, but completely happy evening.

I went to bed (far too late, I might add) with a smile on my face, a throbbing toe and foot and truly believing that I would start and finish 26.2 more miles come sunrise!

Until the next [magical] mile marker,

Ohio State Report for Week of January 09, 2012

2012-01-11T11:30:00.000-05:00

Ohio State Report for Week of January 09, 2012

You can also listen to my report HERE.

This is Sara from wordstorunby.com reporting on the Ohiorace scene for Pace Per Mile Radio.

Are you ready to party like its 1999? I am! This week I am featuringthe Greenswell Wellness in the Woods Race Series. And, from now until January31, each race is only $19.99! Don’t miss out on these exciting races at anultra-low price.

Greenswell is a lifestyle company thatbrings individuals, families, and health professionals together into acommunity working in partnership to combine education,resource information and event activities toinspire its members to achieve a healthy and whole life.

The 2012 Wellness in the Woods series is also designed to bring together individuals and entire communities for healthy activity anda renewed sense of connectedness at local Metro Parks. The series helps toshowcase the wellness activities available at the Metro Parks such as running,walking and hiking. The goal of the races is to help create a culture ofhealthy living by implementing walks and runs at various parks in and aroundCentral Ohio.

The 2012 race schedule is as follows:

03/25: Sharon Woods 5K
04/22: Glacier Ridge 5K
05/13: Blacklick Woods 4 Miler
06/10: Blendon Woods 5K
07/22: Scioto Audobon 4 Miler
08/12: Three Creeks 5K
09/16: Olentangy Trail 5K
10/14: Highbanks 5K
11/4: Battelle Darby 5K

You can also find out more details at www.greenswell.com and registerat active.com, but hurry these prices won’t last long! I ran the Scioto Audobonrace last year and really enjoyed it. The races are smaller, but still providecourse support and finishers awards. I really enjoy running in the Metro Parksso this year I plan to run the Glacier Ridge 5K and Battelle Darby 5K. Bothshould be challenging with some hills thrown in!

This is Sara and thank you for listening to my report onupcoming Ohio races. As always, you can contact me at wordstorunby.com and onFacebook or Twitter for more information. I would love to hear your race-daystories or feedback. Thanks for listening to Pace Per Mile Radio and see you atthe next mile marker.

My 2012 Race Schedule

2012-01-06T12:30:00.000-05:00

I’ve been thinking about my 2012 Race Schedule. I loveracing most of the time, but I think I want to take it easy in 2012, especiallysince I will need some time to recover after running the Goofy. I want to focuson training and making each run count – whether it is a race or not. I amchoosing to run races that are familiar to me and therefore, near and dear tomy heart. I’ve also been very fortunate the last couple of years to experienceseveral destination races, which as you all know, can be very expensive. I planto stay mostly local this year to save some cash too. And, of course, there isa chance a random 5K or 4 Miler might pop up that I wasn’t anticipatingrunning, but for at least the first half of 2012, I am keeping it light interms of racing.

Goofy’s Challenge January 07-08 (Walt Disney WorldOrlando, Florida)

Yup, that’s this weekend! In fact, I'm probably either on my way to or already in Florida as you are reading this. 39.3 milesover two days! I am runningthis race in memory of my mom. I'm nervous and excited and want it to hurry upand happen or just never happen at all. Uptight ball of emotions here!

St. Patrick's Day 4 Miler March 10 (Local)

After a nine mile training runwith my MIT crew in the morning, I plan to volunteer at this race. I’ve reallyenjoyed volunteering at a race the last two times I have done it and serving ishow I want to give back to the running and racing community.
Glacier Ridge 5K April22 (Local Metro Park)

This race is part of the Greenswell Wellness in the Woods Race Series.Their series showcases the sustainable activities at local metro parks whileencouraging an active and healthy lifestyle by getting out and getting moving!These are all smaller, family-friendly events, and I really enjoyed the one I ran lastyear. From now until January 31, all races in the Wellness in the Woods seriesare only $19.99.

Cap City Half May 05 (Local)

What can I say? I have run the Cap City Half twice and theQuarter once and it is definitely one of my favorite Columbus races. This eventis truly a celebration of athletes, young and old, fast and slow. And since Columbusis celebrating its Bicentennial this year, Cap City is a party you will notwant to miss out on. In fact, the Byers Xtra Mile Finish Line Party will leadthe celebration with “Champagne and Chocolate,” a signature element of the CapitalCity Half Marathon, along with food, drink, music and much more. Plus, Cap Cityis the official spring Half Marathon of MIT so I am looking forward to runningit with my Lucky 13 team. Come celebrate the Bicentennial with over 12,500 ofyour closest friends – including me!

Race for the Cure May 19 (Local)

I try to run this race when I can because breast cancer has and will effect so many women in my life and the lives of people I know. I plan to run-walk this race with my mother-in-law this year, who is herself a survivor of breast cancer.

Emerald City Half September (Local)

I love this Half Marathon too! I ran this race in 2010 andPR’d it so it also has a special place in my heart. Last year, I ran theQuarter with Mandy and we agreed to run the half together this summer! I can’twait!

Columbus Half Marathon October 21 (Local)

Columbus is the Fall training race for MIT and 2012 will be myfourth year in a row running it. This is a great fall race – a flat course,full of entertainment and a great tour of Columbus. Someday I would like to runthe full marathon, but that will just have to wait a few more years!

Batelle Darby 5K November 04 (Local Metro Park)

Another Greenswell race that I plan to check out. This is one of my favorite Metro Parks near me and can be rather challenging to hike with hills and steep ravines. Absolutely gorgeous in the fall so I am really excited to run this 5K!

Flying Feather 4 Miler Thanksgiving Day (Local)

This race has become a family tradition that I look forward to every year. 2012 just might be my year for a PR!

So that's it for now. How are your race plans shaping up for 2012? Anyone have a race to recommend that they just can't help but run every year?

Until the next mile marker,

Ohio State Report for Week of January 02, 2012

2012-01-04T23:36:00.001-05:00

Ohio State Report for Week of January 02, 2012

You can also listen to my report HERE.

Happy New Year everyone! This is Sara from wordstorunby.com reportingon the Ohio race scene for Pace Per Mile Radio.

Many of us, especially here in the Midwest, are heading intoa racing break over the winter months. Perhaps you are taking some extra timeto cross or strength train or even focus on a new training plan for an upcomingspring race.

If you’re taking a break from running exclusively, check outthe Lifetime Fitness Indooor Tri Series, which kicks off in Deerfield onFebruary 19. Commit to accomplishing your goal of becoming a triathlete in2012! There's never been a better way to become a triathlete or get in shapefor your outdoor races. The event takes place indoors and includes a 10 minutepool swim, 10 minute transition, 30 minute spin bike, 5 minutetransition and 20 minute treadmill run. I have never trained for a triathlon, but thissounds like something I could definitely achieve. Go to www.indoortri.com to findadditional information, including race dates and locations.

Or maybe you are looking for a great winter race in hopes ofQualifying for Boston in 2013? The Last Chance for Boston Race takes place on February26. This course is unique because it is a 1 mile loop course and offersa very spectator friendly race environment, with 26 fluid and support stations!I don’t know if I could run 26 one-mile loops, but if you decide to take on thechallenge, I would love to hear about your experience. Other Last Chance eventsinclude unique team relays, a 1/2 marathon, 5K and 10K! If you need more than 4hours and 45 minutes to complete the race, please plan to start early as thecourse closes at 12:45 p.m. See www.premierraces.com for additional information.

Want to change your life one mile at a time and havefun while doing it?! If you’re in Columbus, it’s not too late to signup for the winter training session of Marathoner in Training. The lastinformation session and kick-off workout is this Saturday, January 7^that7:45 a.m. at Thomas Worthington High School. Visit www.trainwithmit.com for completedetails. Spring races include the Cap City Half Marathon, Earth Day and FlyingPig.

What would you like to hear from Pace Per Mile in 2012? Dropby on my Facebook Page or Twitter and let me know. This is Sara and thankyou for listening to my report on upcoming Ohio races. As always, you cancontact me at wordstorunby.com to share your race-day stories, offer feedbackor find more information about these featured races. Thanks for listening to Pace Per Mile Radioand see you at the next mile marker.

Stay Connected:

Am I Goofy or What? Week #17 Training Recap

2012-01-02T20:17:00.001-05:00

This recap is brought to you by…

The First on the First 5K!

Happy New Year everyone! I hope it is off to a fantastic start. I kicked off 2012 by volunteering at the First on the First 5K, presented by M3S Sports. This is the second race I have volunteered at, and I once again really enjoyed it! This time, I was on the race course right before Mile 2 helping to make sure runners (and traffic) went in the right direction. I had a blast cheering on my MIT friends. If you have never volunteered at a race before, you should! Let me put it this way, I know how much seeing enthusiastic and cheerful volunteers means to me when I am running, so I want to give back to other runners! If you feel the same way, see about volunteering with a race company near you. I plan to make volunteering a regular part of my running life.

I didn’t run (or really work out) this week. I guess you could say I am in the resting phase of my Goofy Training Plan. Less than one week?!?! I am excited and nervous all wrapped into one, and I really hope I can just get some sleep this week and eat right. I plan to get a couple of short runs in this week, mostly to keep my mind from going insane. Oh, and hydrating, I need to hydrate non-stop!

Yeah, so much for a running week. Let’s look at my 2011 running stats, they are slightly more impressive, I think.

I ran a lot of miles, but not nearly as many as I thought I would have!

That is roughly 522 miles. I thought for sure I ran something like 3,000 or so. Right now, I don’t have any mileage goals for 2012. I just want to run happy and healthy.
Mostly in 2011, I had good runs. And, I spent 123 hours on my feet. That is pretty awesome, considering I never used to do anything.

Apparently, I also got fast once in February and I run my hardest when I am working out with MIT, which is probably true since they continually push me to be a better runner. I wouldn’t have it any other way. Also, I would like you to note that I ran farther than 26.2 miles in Pittsburgh. Does that count as an ultra-marathon?! I am thinking it should!

In terms of weight loss, I’ll be getting back on track with that after Goofy. I bought a food journal last night that I plan to use to help get back track. I do tend to lose more weight when I right down every. single. thing. that. I. put in. my. mouth.

Question for you bloggers! Do you use Windows Live Writer? What do you think about it? Pros and cons? Can you do picture captions with it? I am using it for the first time to compose this post, and I have not figured out how to do that.

I hope you are all off to a happy, healthy and safe New Year!

Until the next mile marker,

2011: A Year to Remember

2011-12-30T17:14:00.000-05:00

I’ve been reading everyone’s posts recapping 2011. It seemslike the thing to do with the New Year only two days away. It’s inspiring to read back over yourvictories, races, accomplishments, challenges, struggles and goals – especiallythe joyful times. Last year on this day, I wrote my own recap and it was happy.My mother started running in 2010 and I said then that she [Mom] has once again reminded me that no matter what you think stands in your way - it doesn't- you can still accomplish your dreams if you put your heart into it.

Mom and I finishing her first 5K in August 2010.

I closed with this:

As I lace up my shoes,zip up my jacket and head out the door this afternoon for my last run of 2010,I have a lot to be thankful for. A lot to be grateful for. And a lot to lookforward to. I hope you do too. My sincere wish for each of you is that you havea happy and safe New Year, and I can't wait to see where the new year takes us.I'm already looking forward to reading your blogs. Happy New Year from us.

It’s funny how everything changed on April 21, a short fourmonths later. 2011 was horrible. There’s not really much I wish to remember. Inall honesty, I wish I could just forget. My life changed forever a little after 2:00 p.m. on that day when the local policecalled to tell me there had been an accident and my mother was being taken tothe hospital. What I didn’t know until I got there was that she had passedaway. I can’t ever change that. 2011 ripped my one of the people wholoved me the most right out of my life without even a chance to say goodbye. Thelast time I saw her? After a six and a half mile run the Saturday before and wewent to breakfast with our friend Wendy. The details of that morning? They’refading faster. The last thing she texted to me I’m going out for a four milerun! Love you, angel! The last thing I said to her? I don’t remember.

Sure, there were some memorable times in 2011. Even somehappier times, but everything is overshadowed by how much I miss her and howlonely I am sometimes without her by my side. So many questions, so many thingsleft undone. Not unsaid, my mother knew how much I loved her, just undone.

We ran Cap City, the race she had been training for, in herhonor:

Cap City Memory Bib we wore.

The Lucky 13's getting ready for the race.


Mollie & Me after the race.

Julie finishing the Cap City 1/4 wearing Mom's Bib #.

Deb, LeDawn & Me after Cap City.

I ran Pittsburgh, my first full marathon, with theunexpected help of my dear friends:

After the Pittsburgh Marathon.

My friends drove all the way to PA to surprise me on the course - AND RUN WITH ME!

I kept running even though I wanted to quit:

Summer Session of MIT.

Cap City 1/4.

Westerville Rotary Fourth of July 5K.

Emerald City.

Me & Mollie on the Fourth of July.

Running in the rain.

2011 Race Club. I'm in there somewhere.

Me & Mollie after the Columbus Half.

Mollie & Me at the Veterans 5K.

I continued coaching the Lucky 13's with MIT:

Kelley, Me, Duane & Nita after the Columbus Half.

Oktoberfest!

We do it right afterall.

I was honored to receive the Spirit Award from the Columbus Marathon in October:

My friend who nominated me Dave, Me, Michael & Dad.

We carried on the family Thanksgiving Day Tradition:

I know there are good things on the horizon for 2012.

Continued reporting for Pace Per Mile Radio:

Representing FitFluential as an Ambassador to inspire others to achieve their health and fitness dreams:

Pace Coaching, of course:

And my biggest challenge, happening soon, The Goofy:

Spending time with the ones I love. I'm not taking them for granted:

And more blogging, you blogland friends, have been with me through the darkest time in my life. Your support, love, encouragement, sympathy, understanding and friendship has not gone unnoticed.

Bloggy meet up with Sarah and Michelle.

But, I also know 2012 won't even be the same. Every joy is laced with sadness too at all that is left undone. Opportunities lost. Death is so final. You can't demand a redo. I never knew what that felt like before this year.

So, for as much as I wish I could forget, I will remember. For my mother. Because she would never want me to forget that I love running - and so did she.

My wish for you all? A joyful New Year filled with love, happiness, friendship and good health.

Until the next mile marker,

Ohio State Report for Week of December 26, 2011

2011-12-28T17:12:00.001-05:00

Ohio State Report for Week of December 26, 2011

You can also listen to my report HERE.

In the words of Alfred Tennyson as we welcome the New Year, “Ringout the old, ring in the new; Ring, happy bells, across the snow; The year isgoing, let him go; Ring out the false, ring in the true.” This is Sara fromwordstorunby.com reporting on the Ohio racing scene for Pace Per Mile Radio.

What better way to ‘ring in the new’ than with a road race?I know running has become one of my favorite holiday traditions and that is whyI will be volunteering at the 2012 First on the First, presented by M3S Sports onSunday, January 01 at the OhioHealth Westerville Medical Campus. This 5K course will start your New Year off on the right foot with atour of Westerville and a traditional feast consisting of roasted pork, sauerkrautand black-eye peas at the Finish Line. Participants can register through raceday for $40 or a make it a family affair and register four of your relatives at$25 per person online. Packet pick-up is at Fleet Feet Sports in Lewis Center.There is also a 2K Fun Walk for $25 through race day.

If you’re in the Toledo Area, you may want to check out the 10th Annual Hangover Classic 5K (right after the Midnight Special 5Kthe night before!). The Hangover doesn’t start until 2:00 p.m. so you haveplenty of time to stay out late and sleep it off in the morning. The racestarts at the Monclova Community Center in Monclova. The race goes on rain,snow, sleet, ice, or well, hangovers so “just man (or woman!) up” and get outthere to run. The course is fast and flat and is out and back so follow thecrowd and you should be just fine! As long as you are not cranky from lack ofsleep or too hung-over, the race organizers allow race day entry for $3.00 for everybody. You can’t beat that special.Need more information? Just crawl out of your nice, warm bed and run!

On your marks, get set, GO! Registration for the 2012 AirForce Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K and 5K opens on January 01. The 2012featured Aircraft is the B-2 Spirit. Register online at www.usafmarathon.com and on the 1st to receive the New Year’s price – it goes up on January 02. The race takesplace at the National Museum of the United States Air Force on Wright PattersonAir Force Base just outside of Dayton. Please be advised, register early becausethis race will sell out! It did in 2010 and 2011. I ran the half in 2010 andit is one of my favorite races so far. The course is fast and flat and nothingcompares to receiving a commemorative medal from Air Force senior leaders. Thecourse is a Boston Marathon qualifier and offers free pace teams.

This is Sara from wordstorunby.com wishing you all a safeand joyous New Year! Thank you for listening to my report on Pace Per Mile Radio. Asalways, you can contact me at wordstorunby.com to share your race-daystories, offer feedback or find more information about these featured races.Thanks for listening to Pace Per Mile Radio and see you at the next milemarker.

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