Shamrock Shuffle Event Alert Status Update

Breaking news: 
According to the advance local weather forecast, the weather on race day is projected to be mostly cloudy with a chance of mixed rain/snow showers, a morning low of 32 degrees (F) and an afternoon high of 40 degrees (F).

Based on this forecast, the Event Alert Level is Yellow/Moderate, which suggests less than ideal shitty running conditions. Please be aware that this is based off the advance local weather forecast and conditions may change prior to race day.

Big bummer.

Tangerine Shoes

Love 'em or hate 'em?  I can't tell yet, but love that I paid $39 at TJ Maxx for these little jelly numbers.  They're well made comfort by Taryn Rose, an orthopedic doctor-turned-shoe designer, and retail on Zappos for $90.  About five years ago, I paid a ton of money for a pair of her ballet slipper-type shoes, and never regretted it.  Still wearing them, in fact.  Be good to your feet.

Running West Chop

What's better than a four mile run, on a gorgeous, sunny, February day around West Chop?  A few mile run on a gorgeous, sunny, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October or November day around West Chop.  All kidding aside, today was one of my favorite runs of the year.  Deep blue sky and water, no wind and in the low-to-mid forties.  Now that I'm increasing my weekly mileage for Shamrock Shuffle training, the treadmill just gets too boring.  Wild Willy ran four miles through the forest earlier in the day, and was just as pleased with the conditions.  We had to take turns exercising today, as we were expecting an important call from Dr. Bob.  The teen blogson has been so sick this entire winter break.  We took him to the doctor today for a throat culture and blood work.  It looks as if he has some sort of viral infection, perhaps the start of mono.  He's had a lazy week, and good excuse to do nothing but be babied.  I can't remember the last time he had a fever.  

MV20 Miler Race Course

The Vineyard's annual 20 miler race will be starting at 11am today.  It's 26℉ and sunny, going up to 33℉.   Every year, 500 crazy enthusiasts run this chilly, but flat course on Martha's Vineyard.

Soaking Up the Sun at 32℉

The shortage of vitamin D is really getting to me these days.  I braved the cold with my brand, new running shoes and did a 5.18 mile run, then a 1.5 mile walk OUTSIDE!  It was actually really beautiful after the seven minute warm-up.  I'm training for Chicago's Shamrock Shuffle in March.  Burrr!

Chicago Race Day Weather Disappointing

After weeks of training for my sixth annual 8k run in Chicago, I am
presented with a race day decision this morning. Run in the snow and
wind, or have brunch with family and friends.

41 Degrees, Shorts, T-Shirt, 5.25 Miles

Feeling way cool. Priceless. Today was my final training run before Chicago's 8k on Sunday. It was more a mental exercise rather than physical. I warmed up on the treadmill before hitting the hills outside. It was nice not having the excess clothing.

Align your Spine and Cop a Fast, Fun Swagger

There are no magic workouts. It's about a willingness to cross boundaries.

-Peter Tegen, coach at the University of Wisconsin

Oddly as it may seem, Wii Fit yoga has been a great cross-training activity between runs. It really does help with centering, balance and posture. Who would have thunk?

In Pursuit of the Perfect Lemon Meringue Pie

After my 5.25 mile run yesterday, I celebrated π day by trying to improve on my lemon meringue recipe. Oh, so close to perfection.

One Chick on the Road

First outdoor run of the year.  Three miles of dodging black ice in 51 degree weather.  Lots of vitamin D, too.