tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-57545774460041312932024-03-05T13:58:23.391-08:00I'm a runner. I'm running. I RUN.Johttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635877192243288425noreply@blogger.comBlogger53125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5754577446004131293.post-46443049769756850292019-06-23T14:56:00.000-07:002019-06-23T14:58:56.139-07:00I Hate Running.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmSqiVKKt1GVGUWfcn6D9KmE5iE-lXay1Zeoz8rtXzyHrwqmdGs2kY5XN50U-J8QglddHsVHXT7YhU6NEFpfBscODLdnwHjYx7DF-CU2wRQHbAbvQ1nBxSMwSuRKNm6KE4tA6szdwwSn8D/s1600/13-JoRunningInTheMini-02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1451" data-original-width="1002" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmSqiVKKt1GVGUWfcn6D9KmE5iE-lXay1Zeoz8rtXzyHrwqmdGs2kY5XN50U-J8QglddHsVHXT7YhU6NEFpfBscODLdnwHjYx7DF-CU2wRQHbAbvQ1nBxSMwSuRKNm6KE4tA6szdwwSn8D/s200/13-JoRunningInTheMini-02.jpg" width="138" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My First Mini - 05.05.2007</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">In
2007, I wrote an article about my entry into the world of running.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To my surprise, it was published in the
December 2007 issue of <i>Women’s Health</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I know many folks are considering joining Lawrence County’s <a href="http://www.joannakaicobb.com/stonetotstone2019.pdf" target="_blank">Stone to Stone running program</a> this summer, and I thought resurrecting this article might give
some fire to someone on the fence about joining.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Additionally,
I appreciate the full-circle quality of rereading this article today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I mention my mentors in the “training group,”
and now I’m going to be one of those mentors.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">If
you want to learn more about Stone to Stone, the program that will turn you into
a half marathoner, come to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/370054116960514/" target="_blank">an informational call-out meeting</a> at the Boys &
Girls Club of Lawrence County (2009 19th Street, Bedford, IN 47421), on Thursday,
June 27 at 6:00 P.M.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>See you there!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">---</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>I hate running.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>For the first 27 years of my life,
this was my mantra.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As a public school
student, I loathed lap running in P.E. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As
an adult, I watched the local sweat-sodden road runners jogging through town and
thought, “Crazy.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sure, running could keep
a gal fit, but there were other ways to stay healthy, right?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Who on Earth would choose to run?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For fun?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>On purpose?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>My life took an unexpected turn in
April 2003 when I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Amid all the digestive and kidney complications,
it occurred to me that to be healthy, I would have to introduce some kind of physical
fitness program into my lifestyle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
began light weight training and walking programs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No running necessary.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>While watching a news program a few
years later, I was drawn to a story about a plucky teenager who ran a marathon
for charity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She said, “If I can do it,
anyone can!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A momentary, “I could do
something like that,” flitted through my mind.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>But I hate running.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Nonetheless, I kept thinking about
that teenager and her motivating statement that “anyone” could run a
marathon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I started slipping comments regarding
running into conversation with my family and friends, testing the waters of
their confidence in me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most of them
gave me the same furrowed-brow, wrinkled-lip face that asked, “Are you
serious?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A few gave hesitant
encouragement after fleeting flickers of the previously mentioned facial
expression.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My oldest stepson, however,
said, “I hear there’s going to be a training group organized for folks running
the Mini.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>The Mini.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The half-marathon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The 13.1-mile race that includes a whip
around the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The kickoff event for the 500 Festival.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The biggest half-marathon in the world with 35,000 participants.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Sign me up.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>What kind of individual voluntarily
enlists to complete a 13.1-mile race when she can’t even run all the way around
a quarter-mile track?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why I took that
leap of faith is not easy to explain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
might have been to prove something to the shocked-faced friends who thought I
couldn’t do it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It might have been to
prove something to myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ultimately, I
think it was the overwhelming urge to shut up, suck it up, and go for it: to
force myself to attain a goal that seemed impossible to reach.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>My first training run fell six
months before the 500 Festival Mini Marathon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Terrified of my commitment, I watched as those crazy road runners whom I’d
seen only through confused eyes, began to arrive; they were going to be my
mentors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When I could run only a short
two minutes, they didn’t make fun of me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We walked until I could run again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This pattern continued for days until I ran my first mile without
stopping.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My mentors celebrated with me
as if my accomplishment were profound.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Because it was.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>I didn’t need extrinsic motivation
to stick to my training schedule.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Throughout my early runs, I discovered that the Crohn’s pain in my
abdomen lessened as I ran.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Long distance
runs rendered me pain free.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Running
brought more energy, more zest for life, more healthiness, and a more positive
attitude.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPyhH1_dwHrbfYyKeP2fKVULmpLWdE5NnRxUQ4MMPM9treRziN3-n3RKl2n_B6TfS2DtAmgGYZvWyzrwRMwfo9nv5udViW5RqFMrCWO3iOZWMVx6bh7b0RygMoXDq1aMINounO9saV3sxo/s1600/01-JoWalkingToTheStartLine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1249" data-original-width="1140" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPyhH1_dwHrbfYyKeP2fKVULmpLWdE5NnRxUQ4MMPM9treRziN3-n3RKl2n_B6TfS2DtAmgGYZvWyzrwRMwfo9nv5udViW5RqFMrCWO3iOZWMVx6bh7b0RygMoXDq1aMINounO9saV3sxo/s200/01-JoWalkingToTheStartLine.jpg" width="182" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting ready to enter <br />
the corral in 2007</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>I ran in the rain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I ran in the wind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I ran in the snow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One
morning, my eyelids froze shut from the bitter cold.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Finally, I ran two miles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then three.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Five.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Eight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ten.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Family and friends did double-takes, then honked and waved in disbelief
as I pounded the city’s wintry streets on my quest to accomplish the
impossible.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>The morning of the Mini dawned heavy
with humidity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Standing in Corral G, a
prime starting spot I’d earned by posting a qualifying pace in a local training
series run, it occurred to me that six months of physical and mental preparation
culminated to this moment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
Crohn’s-diseased girl who hated running was about to embark on a 13.1-mile jogging
journey with nothing but a prayer, an iPod, and a will of steel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nevertheless, I was shaking in my worn
running shoes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Due to the large volume of runners,
my Corral remained motionless when the gun sounded—not the climactic start I’d expected.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I finally reached the start line six minutes
after the gun, and took off at my pace.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>For the first few miles, runners
flew past me as if I were a rock on the road.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Self-talk helped me focus: “Run your race.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Run your pace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t stop.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>By Mile Marker 5, I was passing those fleet-footed runners.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>As I wound through Indianapolis’s
downtown and residential streets, masses of people stood on the sidewalks
cheering on the runners.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bands playing
upbeat tunes lined the streets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Welcome
as water-stations, these encouragers gave me much needed refueling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My self-talk continued, “Don’t stop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t stop.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>I began to weaken after Mile Marker
7, which was on the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My ankles ached from the banked track, and I
missed the cheering crowds who weren’t allowed inside the Speedway’s looming
walls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My mantra echoed in my head with
each step.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Don’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Stop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Don’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Stop.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>The sighting of an IndyCar racer at
Mile Marker 8 gave me an adrenaline boost, as did the long-awaited exit from
the track and the encouragement of a friend who reached out to slap my hand on
Mile 9.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At Mile 10, a man in the crowd shouted
to me, “You from Indiana?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We don’t stop
in Indiana!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I found another friend at
Mile 11.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With twelve miles behind me, I
entered the Victory Mile on <st1:street w:st="on"><st1:address w:st="on">New
York Street</st1:address></st1:street>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>As I did, the sultry sun burst from behind the clouds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I summoned all my will as I sped to the
finish line.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkmTkDP9_0LdHpuJxtP3q_XFwly5Uv-C9rzv5Xy9Da25p5X7EJjPtUAO56m_3VzY4CuGgQDZWn9msSh4WwfBs7lx5kNDhGnVegT-C-x_3bSVhKy1gxBLVNsm__Kdzvxf03c4qqGyNuU_3q/s1600/32-JoFinishingTheMini-06.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1571" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkmTkDP9_0LdHpuJxtP3q_XFwly5Uv-C9rzv5Xy9Da25p5X7EJjPtUAO56m_3VzY4CuGgQDZWn9msSh4WwfBs7lx5kNDhGnVegT-C-x_3bSVhKy1gxBLVNsm__Kdzvxf03c4qqGyNuU_3q/s200/32-JoFinishingTheMini-06.JPG" width="196" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finishing the 2007 Mini</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>“DON’T!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>STOP!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>DON’T! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>STOP!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>With the finish line steps away, I
saw a pink sign with my name thrust into the air.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was held by the hands of my mother, who
was screaming my name.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My husband’s face
was not visible behind the lens of his camera.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>My father clapped his hands until they were hot, and he cried a little
too, I think.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Also weeping tears of joy,
I hit the finish line with my arms raised in triumph.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My husband said I was one of the only runners
who finished smiling.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>I hadn’t stopped.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’d had every opportunity to give up, drop
out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But for two hours, 18 minutes, and
22 seconds, I ran—without stopping.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
crossed the finish line in 13,743<sup>rd</sup> place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All around me were men, women, and children
staring at each other in stunned disbelief at what we had all just done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had just run a half-marathon.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I
ran a half-marathon.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Back home in southern Indiana, I
continue to train through the city’s streets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Dismayed drivers, in my old position, look in disbelief at this sweat-sodden
road runner on a solo mission along Hoosier hills, and think, “Crazy.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s OK, because they don’t know what I
know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I choose to run, for fun, on
purpose, because running has shown me that nothing is impossible, and
impossible is nothing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Because I love running.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCTwh27mo-SuK-6KpU-PTCJ1OvLwPTjPAhbOLOSagvhqzmoTkHibs2W6CZFOW3bb3-CEC6aKf5LAX2yZGLDzXJuL6T_EB7R3cddbEUDz8SeVmY1FbjCqnBskdQInSXr4DLvMUrT03pFbB8/s1600/20190504-IndyMiniMarathon-71.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="353" data-original-width="416" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCTwh27mo-SuK-6KpU-PTCJ1OvLwPTjPAhbOLOSagvhqzmoTkHibs2W6CZFOW3bb3-CEC6aKf5LAX2yZGLDzXJuL6T_EB7R3cddbEUDz8SeVmY1FbjCqnBskdQInSXr4DLvMUrT03pFbB8/s320/20190504-IndyMiniMarathon-71.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Starting my 10th Indy Mini in 2019</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
Johttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635877192243288425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5754577446004131293.post-43312414491170295442018-12-31T14:37:00.002-08:002018-12-31T14:37:36.484-08:00Running the Numbers - 2018<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV3AmGJLkJRXFezaYJrP6VNCVk8nH0SFsQu_rS39I66jdNLDQFeYLWYJVubqtDP_BYH9E-KLglVXu-H5gIzGoU1ZrkojBdc-AViijOXMJXXb3C83MbOTPy3oDIwFMGU1hfoKmtLymDZK5L/s1600/20181106-FallPhotoRun-051.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="805" data-original-width="1600" height="161" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV3AmGJLkJRXFezaYJrP6VNCVk8nH0SFsQu_rS39I66jdNLDQFeYLWYJVubqtDP_BYH9E-KLglVXu-H5gIzGoU1ZrkojBdc-AViijOXMJXXb3C83MbOTPy3oDIwFMGU1hfoKmtLymDZK5L/s320/20181106-FallPhotoRun-051.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fall Photo Run on Trail #2 at Spring Mill on November 6</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
In many ways, 2018 was a rough year for me. I dealt with an Achilles/calf/post-tib injury for the first five months of the year. (That problem was due to running several miles in sub-zero temperatures. Dumb.) However, I also had a lot of really, really great times.<br />
<br />
I chose to eliminate every mileage/pace goal and go with just one aim: <a href="https://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2017/11/run-happy.html" target="_blank">Run Happy</a>. That I did. I had so, so, so many fun runs with friends this year. The first ones that come to mind are <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/2591494333" target="_blank">Eric's Carmel Marathon</a>, <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/2675265697" target="_blank">Mitch's Mini</a>, the <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/3001440247" target="_blank">flood run with Becky and Larry</a>, the <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/3017280171" target="_blank">Lawrence County Torch Relay</a>, PRing at the <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/3120111175" target="_blank">Tecumseh Half Marathon</a>, PRing at the <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/3135376102" target="_blank">Monumental Half Marathon</a>, my solo <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/3143398230" target="_blank">Fall Photo Run</a>, the <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/3178107039" target="_blank">Give Thanks 4 with Jocelyn</a>, and the <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/3237345854" target="_blank">Christmas Lights Run with Wendy</a>. There were certainly some really bright running spots in 2018.<br />
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<b><u>Running The 2018 Numbers</u></b><br />
I always enjoy keeping data on my runs, and watching the mileage pile up as the year progresses. Here's way more info about my running than you'll ever want to know.<br />
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<b>Miles Run:</b> 1,130.00 (avg. 21.67 mi. per week)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHuapZd1NuKurXs5X4UVS6sJ1OJ890JaM1DX7OBQcrxywA9AVSzKWMzk5e7d8xAZD2NhIhQh5e4UkbgrBmP1P1ZAuNBdrg0rTwCEdHbYJcf0TwIgiUf3Zl3_ZK02uLp42cjJQArXDifjJu/s1600/20180610-McCormick%2527sCreekRun-34.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1334" height="110" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHuapZd1NuKurXs5X4UVS6sJ1OJ890JaM1DX7OBQcrxywA9AVSzKWMzk5e7d8xAZD2NhIhQh5e4UkbgrBmP1P1ZAuNBdrg0rTwCEdHbYJcf0TwIgiUf3Zl3_ZK02uLp42cjJQArXDifjJu/s200/20180610-McCormick%2527sCreekRun-34.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">McCormick's Creek on June 10</td></tr>
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<b>Decrease Over Previous Annual Mileage High:</b> 1,582.00 mi., 28.57% decrease<br />
<b>Runs:</b> 178<br />
<b>Hours Run:</b> 181.87 (7.58 days, or 2.08% of 2018)<br />
<b>Average Run Distance:</b> 6.35 mi.<br />
<b>Average Run Pace:</b> 9:39.40 min/mi.<br />
<b>Average Run Duration:</b> 1:01:18.2 hr.<br />
<b>Average Temperature During Runs:</b> 52.01°F<br />
<b>Temperature Range:</b> 97°F (High 88°F, <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/3017280171" target="_blank">September 15</a>; low -9°F, <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/2409669370" target="_blank">January 2</a>)<br />
<b>Feet Climbed:</b> 64,612 (12.24 mi.)<br />
<b>Average Feet Climbed Per Mile:</b> 57.18, 1.08% grade<br />
<b>Miles Walked:</b> 70<br />
<b>Walks:</b> 48<br />
<b>Average Walk Distance:</b> 1.46 mi.<br />
<b>Strength Training Sessions at Novus:</b> 34<br />
<b>Cross Training Miles:</b> 81.41 (biking, spinning, and elliptical)<br />
<b>Races Run:</b> 7 (3 AG awards)<br />
<b>PRs Set:</b> 3, 2:24:50, trail half marathon on <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/3120111175" target="_blank">October 27</a>; 1:51:07, road half marathon on <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/3135376102" target="_blank">November 3</a>; and 31:22, 4-miler on <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/3178107039" target="_blank">November 22</a><br />
<b>DNFs</b>: 1, Brown County State Park Trail 15K (DINO Race), <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/2746178913" target="_blank">June 2</a><br />
<b>Falls</b>: 2, <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/2879417442" target="_blank">July 25</a> and <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/3120111175" target="_blank">October 27</a>, both the fault of Ryan Boyce! :-)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9ih7bbRbWlRyfj27dKJ70_QpCETajiQd3EArez_fwpJxZMlklctzThdUzHrpYC9dbPPy6Fp6vtIolubEWWfAVzsthOr2Rt5JfhsK7PdztaNFTePC-qQt-7Pw2LeKZX0PZ6XvfyAF9q6Y-/s1600/20180725-MorningRun-01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="681" data-original-width="989" height="137" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9ih7bbRbWlRyfj27dKJ70_QpCETajiQd3EArez_fwpJxZMlklctzThdUzHrpYC9dbPPy6Fp6vtIolubEWWfAVzsthOr2Rt5JfhsK7PdztaNFTePC-qQt-7Pw2LeKZX0PZ6XvfyAF9q6Y-/s200/20180725-MorningRun-01.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pate with Mitch and Ryan on July 25</td></tr>
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<b>Injuries:</b> 1, Achilles/calf/post-tib in the winter and spring due to running high mileage in sub-zero temps<br />
<b>Toenails Lost:</b> 5<br />
<b>Surgeries:</b> 0<br />
<b>Pairs of Shoes Retired:</b> 3<br />
<b>Pairs of Shoes Purchased:</b> 4<br />
<b>States Where I Ran:</b> 1, Indiana<br />
<b>Pictures Drawn:</b> 5: <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/2555034916" target="_blank">pi on March 14</a>, <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/2584317483" target="_blank">crosses on March 28</a>, <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/2725320108" target="_blank">2018 on May 25</a>, <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/2743001538" target="_blank">"Jo Is 39." on June 1</a>, and a <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/2822692183" target="_blank">flag with USA on July 3</a><br />
<b>Longest Run:</b> 14.02 mi., <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/2997535232" target="_blank">September 8</a><br />
<b>Shortest Run:</b> 0.25 mi., <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/2683076770" target="_blank">May 8</a><br />
<b>Week With Most Running:</b> October 14-20, 41.85 mi.<br />
<b>Month With Most Running:</b> December, 158.00 mi.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoLvTC4AQ6CKzeXFp6dyx9KUt7ejSRYoBNIJZqr12A8ehvCP257aKZgR0RzZQwC0ZsEv2bzKdm0c9Y3HLWpUP6cTmm9dcW1xjQ6pczrZWIm3xATGLWtUvrr00W0knC5G5nWR3iyJK5UFq-/s1600/20181220-ChristmasLightsRun-29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoLvTC4AQ6CKzeXFp6dyx9KUt7ejSRYoBNIJZqr12A8ehvCP257aKZgR0RzZQwC0ZsEv2bzKdm0c9Y3HLWpUP6cTmm9dcW1xjQ6pczrZWIm3xATGLWtUvrr00W0knC5G5nWR3iyJK5UFq-/s200/20181220-ChristmasLightsRun-29.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christmas Lights Run with Wendy<br />on December 20</td></tr>
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<b>Month With Least Running:</b> April, 20.00 mi.<br />
<b>Favorite Runs:</b> <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/2591494333" target="_blank">Eric's Carmel Marathon</a>, <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/2675265697" target="_blank">Mitch's Mini</a>, the <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/3001440247" target="_blank">flood run with Becky and Larry</a>, the <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/3017280171" target="_blank">Lawrence County Torch Relay</a>, PRing at the <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/3120111175" target="_blank">Tecumseh Half Marathon</a>, PRing at the <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/3135376102" target="_blank">Monumental Half Marathon</a>, my solo <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/3143398230" target="_blank">Fall Photo Run</a>, the <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/3178107039" target="_blank">Give Thanks 4 with Jocelyn</a>, and the <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/3237345854" target="_blank">Christmas Lights Run with Wendy</a><br />
<b>Percentage of Goals Reached:</b> 100% (1/1, I ran happy.)<br />
<b>Total Lifetime Mileage:</b> 9,100.00<br />
<b>Percent of Lifetime Mileage Run in 2018:</b> 12.42%<br />
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<b><u>Mileage By The Month</u></b><br />
I did that weird number thing and made sure my monthly mileage totals were all whole numbers. It's very satisfying for me to see all that point-0-0!<br />
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<b>January:</b> 53.00<br />
<b>February:</b> 67.00<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiROmrx_64701dbxvhyphenhyphenfeiwayKR5KWqKupMSX_-i9mpNiFg5ksoqCZkv2e6ZMiLDNjyZZlvx2_dx7mIdd1JR8_hLjD1LJWFQyzpbmYFAAPLHHzd3Ab61_rortBrHyL6d2owIRdoqd8J6cBd/s1600/20180705-MorningRun-50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1334" height="111" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiROmrx_64701dbxvhyphenhyphenfeiwayKR5KWqKupMSX_-i9mpNiFg5ksoqCZkv2e6ZMiLDNjyZZlvx2_dx7mIdd1JR8_hLjD1LJWFQyzpbmYFAAPLHHzd3Ab61_rortBrHyL6d2owIRdoqd8J6cBd/s200/20180705-MorningRun-50.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lake Monroe on July 5</td></tr>
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<b>March:</b> 90.00<br />
<b>April:</b> 20.00<br />
<b>May:</b> 50.00<br />
<b>June:</b> 73.00<br />
<b>July:</b> 132.00<br />
<b>August:</b> 135.00<br />
<b>September:</b> 130.00<br />
<b>October:</b> 120.00<br />
<b>November:</b> 102.00<br />
<b>December:</b> 158.00 (most monthly mileage ever)<br />
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It was a really great year for my running. See some more photos below. Thanks to everyone for the support! On to 2019!<br />
<br />
<b><u>Some Great Photos</u></b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXP8Fpg2Ko99EOe_dHWreMBw1gFMoBxn6ugQ9I9Bz95J8X_Q37gh6ci_bH9GtvwzBjucNAjgwjqcNhx0eQd7jEs6tdLe8ITfQgTw8Egoqy-Loxkxfp52WfjIP7r6B895JbbNHcDyvVUlPm/s1600/20180314-PiDayRun-16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXP8Fpg2Ko99EOe_dHWreMBw1gFMoBxn6ugQ9I9Bz95J8X_Q37gh6ci_bH9GtvwzBjucNAjgwjqcNhx0eQd7jEs6tdLe8ITfQgTw8Egoqy-Loxkxfp52WfjIP7r6B895JbbNHcDyvVUlPm/s200/20180314-PiDayRun-16.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pi on March 14</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH4Ywdh3DNwkeGL0nb-so2Vj-4OGlPB8tJNbKbCWhiIW3Vu1cjyOAZ0JWzvkJ8zveQao-6GITBUQI26tT4BNp7EUWBpgFypYusQq3_F16QisZ4qg6dAaldgh8Jx81sR2kMXdIDkF1BNhpe/s1600/20180331-CarmelMarathon-14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH4Ywdh3DNwkeGL0nb-so2Vj-4OGlPB8tJNbKbCWhiIW3Vu1cjyOAZ0JWzvkJ8zveQao-6GITBUQI26tT4BNp7EUWBpgFypYusQq3_F16QisZ4qg6dAaldgh8Jx81sR2kMXdIDkF1BNhpe/s200/20180331-CarmelMarathon-14.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carmel Half with Mitch and<br />Eric (Full) on March 31</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqOPjlhHyl9tnSUXGHIqWj1UFApUwMlG2-ZzwCjVhFJVRzRbLITJv1OuPDaJ9WSG3ISDGzl1M6kDUz3Tioht3TFuk3oTzK5ryRfsS-Zn8BhU6WDC3ioVBq3kx4ppsm6xydlNgtZD1FGJp2/s1600/20180331-CarmelMarathon-31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqOPjlhHyl9tnSUXGHIqWj1UFApUwMlG2-ZzwCjVhFJVRzRbLITJv1OuPDaJ9WSG3ISDGzl1M6kDUz3Tioht3TFuk3oTzK5ryRfsS-Zn8BhU6WDC3ioVBq3kx4ppsm6xydlNgtZD1FGJp2/s200/20180331-CarmelMarathon-31.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carmel finish with Mitch on March 31</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy3bliBn-rlKb34OVPkSkbJZFTSltl_hhdqPztO7YZRvdtCb5Ef99NxvSa6wiEzhOp8UBPqjoCSXN76po1LPrJxcrAs3Fo40DQwxypMRV665BAs_VifvJZqoOvKSRPbipYvPSZtHG-ZJSh/s1600/20180429-MorningRun-02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1199" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy3bliBn-rlKb34OVPkSkbJZFTSltl_hhdqPztO7YZRvdtCb5Ef99NxvSa6wiEzhOp8UBPqjoCSXN76po1LPrJxcrAs3Fo40DQwxypMRV665BAs_VifvJZqoOvKSRPbipYvPSZtHG-ZJSh/s200/20180429-MorningRun-02.jpg" width="149" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">TCR Gals on April 29</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9gJ9basftahSS0jdn-gPZHIfEGRzbWhs1U_iR51P__HW6LLYB2IX32P1CKsbca4wbDMHXggMBd9HOw06hC7UmfNFFh3ilE0TUVzg_AflwGy7jvYZe5PEgyVDz-cI5r6Av31n_N1naMA2F/s1600/20180505-IndyMini-63.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1310" data-original-width="1600" height="163" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9gJ9basftahSS0jdn-gPZHIfEGRzbWhs1U_iR51P__HW6LLYB2IX32P1CKsbca4wbDMHXggMBd9HOw06hC7UmfNFFh3ilE0TUVzg_AflwGy7jvYZe5PEgyVDz-cI5r6Av31n_N1naMA2F/s200/20180505-IndyMini-63.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mini start with Mitch on May 5</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimHm1N5Xm8GM7Y7sV-KGWUjd0brNV58zTJxq44M_MliQWjwS97vUQwExvuHb0V0eV2IPQ1drGwH4ekP3Lgu42oJpZ73QsJTWkYSFTO8MaNfDpjgapo1Y1f9DnP03RtXbZ00-cHpEnDfg12/s1600/20180505-IndyMini-69.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="750" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimHm1N5Xm8GM7Y7sV-KGWUjd0brNV58zTJxq44M_MliQWjwS97vUQwExvuHb0V0eV2IPQ1drGwH4ekP3Lgu42oJpZ73QsJTWkYSFTO8MaNfDpjgapo1Y1f9DnP03RtXbZ00-cHpEnDfg12/s200/20180505-IndyMini-69.jpg" width="111" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 2 of the Mini<br />with Mitch on May 5</td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUpdEthfjuLGgtvZ4_LYeUi5oJ4Tx6qC6XHuDkkMNlZhzjVwk6jQGZEvI4B-X-yLz1-VoeehEN4wkOZl5HyuvxuPiOvG2FuzQ2ECDnzn1WcRF2avfCgWw-NBEAuvHq8v7vO0RDqZ1tvo2k/s1600/20180909-MorningRun-15.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1334" height="111" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUpdEthfjuLGgtvZ4_LYeUi5oJ4Tx6qC6XHuDkkMNlZhzjVwk6jQGZEvI4B-X-yLz1-VoeehEN4wkOZl5HyuvxuPiOvG2FuzQ2ECDnzn1WcRF2avfCgWw-NBEAuvHq8v7vO0RDqZ1tvo2k/s200/20180909-MorningRun-15.png" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption">The storied Flood Run on September 9<br />with Larry and Becky</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiST8ckLXBcDBXwXsfAb8oTf2PjHpV_F_gUBjK4O1ymDydtMI4kEaXVOHb_rxVabIoR56xNuJs2gfv1XvbbGi6bFLfax8DeVoUJPEALBT7EELgNv34uk13lgRKlhfhdgs4f9yONanasA0kl/s1600/20180915-TorchRelay-52.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1032" data-original-width="713" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiST8ckLXBcDBXwXsfAb8oTf2PjHpV_F_gUBjK4O1ymDydtMI4kEaXVOHb_rxVabIoR56xNuJs2gfv1XvbbGi6bFLfax8DeVoUJPEALBT7EELgNv34uk13lgRKlhfhdgs4f9yONanasA0kl/s200/20180915-TorchRelay-52.jpg" width="138" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LC Torch Relay with<br />Allen on September 15</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU5rBnnoCzrHTCpf9byjmR0z-bfXaVQIH6oGxgiFvmi4XmvTkFcJI_LoJzoU6bzW6fBd2rZMVS5Z6i7aiDwoVu3_BAh4lurytZmrPYZbTnxP0GuvZjP8ly4x-rK4OacLZ3Kzy-BiwRQ5g4/s1600/20181102-03-Monumental-083.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1027" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU5rBnnoCzrHTCpf9byjmR0z-bfXaVQIH6oGxgiFvmi4XmvTkFcJI_LoJzoU6bzW6fBd2rZMVS5Z6i7aiDwoVu3_BAh4lurytZmrPYZbTnxP0GuvZjP8ly4x-rK4OacLZ3Kzy-BiwRQ5g4/s200/20181102-03-Monumental-083.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Monumental Half PR on November 3</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDzM8CDyFrzNuRfJVS5ifCuttW_ooliwB4_ACnxpd0RZ1XpdnRhWbItINhrn_w3iTQSgzCqjDrsHh6YVVMmClToY33rJfN6vYwb86HUH4s8xNFhjj6J0G_x3lvXrLZRNU4gndQNTloVu7c/s1600/20181106-FallPhotoRun-116.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDzM8CDyFrzNuRfJVS5ifCuttW_ooliwB4_ACnxpd0RZ1XpdnRhWbItINhrn_w3iTQSgzCqjDrsHh6YVVMmClToY33rJfN6vYwb86HUH4s8xNFhjj6J0G_x3lvXrLZRNU4gndQNTloVu7c/s320/20181106-FallPhotoRun-116.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seasons: Spring (May 28) and Fall (November 6) at Donaldson</td></tr>
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<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLtHKw96rB6ZSPwFgp5fEVhBaK-_WpROkQ7BIjEl3EGjnl1vkv7KKurqaZB27UKwaeAqjXBQMZr9Dh602t4xQbjQEqzazPnEmpAKOf3jtn0FpYhyRBAoc77OAIJXxAU5uP3oKX0p7GZlWR/s1600/20181122-GiveThanks4-24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="463" data-original-width="463" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLtHKw96rB6ZSPwFgp5fEVhBaK-_WpROkQ7BIjEl3EGjnl1vkv7KKurqaZB27UKwaeAqjXBQMZr9Dh602t4xQbjQEqzazPnEmpAKOf3jtn0FpYhyRBAoc77OAIJXxAU5uP3oKX0p7GZlWR/s200/20181122-GiveThanks4-24.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Give Thanks 4 on November 22 with Jocelyn</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Johttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635877192243288425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5754577446004131293.post-60100003470015595282018-12-01T12:52:00.003-08:002018-12-01T12:52:57.598-08:00DesignemberEvery October, artists across the globe participate in Inktober, a movement created by Jake Parker. You can <a href="https://www.mrjakeparker.com/inktober-1/" target="_blank">read more about Inktober here</a>, but to summarize, Inktober's goal is to get folks to create art every day during the month of October. Originally designed for ink drawings, people create art with a given theme, then post their results online with the hashtag #Inktober.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXsGRIWamaW70-JcYN_VtAnxj6FF22GiNWUSCDe95-CBMu1w0SqKvJWRcl1RSYo0EjWADC44ciB_FHlBj8sn9qxKby8XT6aWXw2lR0PrZZLIZ8l1XwMmyDHKM2DGewA7VoDvStqstslFed/s1600/Designember.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="876" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXsGRIWamaW70-JcYN_VtAnxj6FF22GiNWUSCDe95-CBMu1w0SqKvJWRcl1RSYo0EjWADC44ciB_FHlBj8sn9qxKby8XT6aWXw2lR0PrZZLIZ8l1XwMmyDHKM2DGewA7VoDvStqstslFed/s320/Designember.jpg" width="175" /></a><br />
You may remember (or may have tried to forget) when I participated in a Halloween #Inktober in October 2018. I posted my drawings, made with my iPad and Apple pencil, on Instagram and Facebook as stories.<br />
<br />
My original motivation was to make people laugh. I'm infamous for my so-called art<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%;">—</span>usually quick and silly renderings of stick people and puffy animals. While my art remained silly, I found I actually looked forward to creating and posting my picture every day. When October ended, I missed the daily fun.<br />
<br />
So I'm bringin' it back, with a nod to Mr. Parker. I have decided to create a month-long Christmas/Holiday/Winter themed daily art creation invitation called Designember. Wanna participate? <a href="http://www.joannakaicobb.com/Designember.jpg" target="_blank">Download a full rendering of the official image here</a>, and have fun creating! Post your art online for all to see with the hashtag #Designember.<br />
<br />
Merry Christmas!<br />
Jo<br />
<br />
...<br />
<br />
Oh, wait, what? You wanted to see some of my #Inktober stuff? I'm not surprised. I'm pretty good. 😉<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zombie</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYefk9P2pDze2HyjcIlSWsYMwkGFzYrQk1kq8ef3ZROknGVieTzxa2oKV6jgbjIxtjJOlL3hsl39RCMm4_pEbZdHewrqIf7TqcpwCWaiUJQ1TdqiI669MRK9eaZ828AwchqprU0C4WlVLp/s1600/20181008-ArtChallenge-02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYefk9P2pDze2HyjcIlSWsYMwkGFzYrQk1kq8ef3ZROknGVieTzxa2oKV6jgbjIxtjJOlL3hsl39RCMm4_pEbZdHewrqIf7TqcpwCWaiUJQ1TdqiI669MRK9eaZ828AwchqprU0C4WlVLp/s200/20181008-ArtChallenge-02.jpg" width="112" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Skeleton</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ9SSBO0WS3j20RVD8rwcBXuN5VRRgk-tXMCMkkIMV6RlFxOvrvzBs6q52nTy8GkEY5t-Hpz_bQhF0jGz8uSOnVPqhJKg2rv7vWa-G3gmtGfWJa9RTgfuK57jLZnetYBES3Qb93gQ4R2dN/s1600/20181013-ArtChallenge-02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ9SSBO0WS3j20RVD8rwcBXuN5VRRgk-tXMCMkkIMV6RlFxOvrvzBs6q52nTy8GkEY5t-Hpz_bQhF0jGz8uSOnVPqhJKg2rv7vWa-G3gmtGfWJa9RTgfuK57jLZnetYBES3Qb93gQ4R2dN/s200/20181013-ArtChallenge-02.jpg" width="112" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Field of Pumpkins</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnqBtLujttkG-3iqp7e-Ajzc45ofo_Aj2q5aGdwDUnQT9GnXT2BzzYZtWAAY3oHKzjPlK3EUUbDWK7JmG39TQWedlxi4FQxfACfMHSTWjvKvbqA6ue0k209DGYm3wT3MtWZsSDeCnSR697/s1600/20181016-ArtChallenge-02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnqBtLujttkG-3iqp7e-Ajzc45ofo_Aj2q5aGdwDUnQT9GnXT2BzzYZtWAAY3oHKzjPlK3EUUbDWK7JmG39TQWedlxi4FQxfACfMHSTWjvKvbqA6ue0k209DGYm3wT3MtWZsSDeCnSR697/s200/20181016-ArtChallenge-02.jpg" width="112" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Black Cat</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbzVV6bFX00R1C1bbS96OyC9GsyJw99gz-0DMZF5wXK8s7vFNvnNYQFmbAdxOVgks847MGc7OhdLw8dMgp5U8i8j3CO7r945kC9Pze0iEl7N1PFJo8lpl5t3osD335QMQtofkHcvjSe2r1/s1600/20181021-ArtChallenge-02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1554" data-original-width="874" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbzVV6bFX00R1C1bbS96OyC9GsyJw99gz-0DMZF5wXK8s7vFNvnNYQFmbAdxOVgks847MGc7OhdLw8dMgp5U8i8j3CO7r945kC9Pze0iEl7N1PFJo8lpl5t3osD335QMQtofkHcvjSe2r1/s200/20181021-ArtChallenge-02.jpg" width="111" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Decapitated Person</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPovJZ6Ezsb-mGcvl9wTeVNpkU8pnPUV-0wYOr5d9qrRzeOPxgAkNRWY_UkvzeouT5fIlAQEqesZwfBc0Bj48c9dhIW2EkWYQ5fyevTWgo1wUXv_NdKknVOmjSq1RQdzJf56SCgRw3HYky/s1600/20181022-ArtChallenge-02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1335" data-original-width="750" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPovJZ6Ezsb-mGcvl9wTeVNpkU8pnPUV-0wYOr5d9qrRzeOPxgAkNRWY_UkvzeouT5fIlAQEqesZwfBc0Bj48c9dhIW2EkWYQ5fyevTWgo1wUXv_NdKknVOmjSq1RQdzJf56SCgRw3HYky/s200/20181022-ArtChallenge-02.jpg" width="111" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Severed Limb</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIi-Oqzz5WqPHdhRYiD18-CkoyBTEnRMAlnoupK5b6jQOW6T3mvyASQfWA6wBBSzHoGdYAqcHRBrdy3G9kHfYJ89wtTAkSzKIxgLVs2klo3ty9cpWb4UcYaOdknKjwEYP_GV2puOteWze7/s1600/20181023-ArtChallenge-03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="901" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIi-Oqzz5WqPHdhRYiD18-CkoyBTEnRMAlnoupK5b6jQOW6T3mvyASQfWA6wBBSzHoGdYAqcHRBrdy3G9kHfYJ89wtTAkSzKIxgLVs2klo3ty9cpWb4UcYaOdknKjwEYP_GV2puOteWze7/s200/20181023-ArtChallenge-03.jpg" width="112" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Werewolf</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg751gWwlQ0I5ORdpgFsp2fXcIniknCeBoIvSzb0uIVycGpAGxT3T-631oeTBhYnIjwBF_C49djPLp-63jVplj9vdJRDKVANQ8zVBt_5POAJWhZV-5ytreXUVapD7zQ7juB0aeS6SP7m07E/s1600/20181027-ArtChallenge-03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg751gWwlQ0I5ORdpgFsp2fXcIniknCeBoIvSzb0uIVycGpAGxT3T-631oeTBhYnIjwBF_C49djPLp-63jVplj9vdJRDKVANQ8zVBt_5POAJWhZV-5ytreXUVapD7zQ7juB0aeS6SP7m07E/s200/20181027-ArtChallenge-03.jpg" width="112" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An Eye</td></tr>
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<br />Johttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635877192243288425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5754577446004131293.post-78790453437637484232018-10-18T15:34:00.001-07:002018-10-19T12:51:31.449-07:00What Makes An Effective NLCS Board Member?<i>by JoAnna Kai Cobb</i><br />
<br />
‘Tis the season! About a month ago, I started
noticing campaign signs appearing on my running routes. A few turned into a
plethora, and now our city is dotted with the little colorful billboards
promoting different candidates in the community. However, instead of endorsing
senatorial contenders and representatives, most of Lawrence County’s signs are
advertising school board candidates.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihEFgYX5M4APlk1zFpG2dH3gLHv8_ISAYQEqgzK0Mv0FudEego-HndK2CvzqUsH9iKGGtkXc3aQLunEAA8oekiA5r10kxHScebWpZV0IuZuGEZ7gPJjAtP64ae2Ilxqvzth8LJa8x7mXJk/s1600/NLCS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="577" data-original-width="600" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihEFgYX5M4APlk1zFpG2dH3gLHv8_ISAYQEqgzK0Mv0FudEego-HndK2CvzqUsH9iKGGtkXc3aQLunEAA8oekiA5r10kxHScebWpZV0IuZuGEZ7gPJjAtP64ae2Ilxqvzth8LJa8x7mXJk/s200/NLCS.jpg" width="200" /></a>As a local educator in her sixteenth year of
service, I want to share both my thoughts on the biggest concerns I have for
North Lawrence Community Schools and my opinion on the characteristics of an
effective school board member who will face these issues head-on.<o:p></o:p></div>
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My interest in these issues comes not only from wanting
the very best for the youth of Lawrence County, but also from desiring the best
future for our community in general. As Whitney Houston once sang, “I believe
the children are our future.” Investing in the youth of our community builds
the foundation for the Lawrence County of years to come.<o:p></o:p></div>
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For whom should you vote for NLCS School Board? That
decision belongs to you. My aim is to share my expert opinion on the critical
issues that will be facing those who are elected so that voters know what is at
stake.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Adjusting
to a New Age</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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As an ever-evolving entity, education looks
different today than it ever has in the past. More models and resources are
available to students, teachers, and administrators, not just to utilize for
learning, but also to set up a framework for optimal learning.<o:p></o:p></div>
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NLCS has embraced technology through 1:1 devices
for students, in its course offerings, with professional development, and more.
In my classroom, I have enjoyed watching technology usage transform from a
classroom novelty to a classroom norm and necessity.<o:p></o:p></div>
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However, modern education isn’t about only
technology and curriculum; it’s about making informed decisions so that our
students may do their best learning. At the administrative level, that
decision-making involves setting up school calendars, daily schedules, other
policies, and opportunities that will be <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">best
for student learning</i>. <o:p></o:p></div>
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It is vital that such informed decisions are based
upon outside research and inside data. An effective school board member is excited
to both initiate and play an active role in this analysis in order to learn
what types of changes will be best for the corporation’s students. He or she
also knows that conclusions deemed best for students of the past aren’t
necessarily best for the students of today.<o:p></o:p></div>
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For example, using e-learning days in lieu of snow
make-up or other unconventional mid-week breaks, such as Election Day, would
give NLCS students a chance to experience a different kind of learning while
maintaining continuity. Researching how corporations similar to NLCS implement
such a policy, troubleshoot problems, and experience successes would be a step
in providing the same opportunities for Lawrence County students.<o:p></o:p></div>
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An effective school board member recognizes
stagnancy, and makes informed changes based on careful research and data
collection.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Attracting
and Retaining Staff</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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The salaries of NLCS certified staff are the
lowest in the area. (The Master Contract is publicly available and may be
viewed at <a href="https://www.nlcs.k12.in.us/employment/master-contract/file">this
link</a>.) A decades-old government funding formula is often cited as the
reason for the disparity. Regular insurance premium hikes compound the problem.<o:p></o:p></div>
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This topic may initially seem self-serving. While
it would be nice to have a salary that allowed me the possibility of working
only one job and maintaining a cost of living, my worry is not for myself. My
worry is for the students whose teachers are leaving.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Because believe me—they are leaving, and not for
different roles in education nor careers in new fields. They are leaving to
teach classrooms in different corporations in order to make more money doing
the exact same jobs. Many of these teachers are not relocating nor are they escaping
tough conditions. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">They are living in
Lawrence County and teaching in different corporations, for up to $17,000 more
per year, doing the same job they were doing at NLCS.</i><o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
This situation directly harms students because
NLCS is unable to attract and retain a full staff of talented teachers. As an
interview committee member at my school, I have seen the hiring process devolve
from sifting through many stellar résumés, to interviewing the only candidate
to apply. Our corporation and thus our students, who deserve the best and the
brightest educators, are often overlooked by applicants who sensibly choose a
nearby corporation with a much more competitive salary.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Teacher salaries are not the only area of the
budget that needs help, so the cooperation and creativity of many board
members, administrators, and other NLCS officials will be necessary to form a
plan and fulfill a solution. Open-mindedness, perhaps to unconventional ideas,
will be required to acknowledge the problem, address the problem, and
answer the problem.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
An effective school board member recognizes this financial
issue as one of the most critical concerns facing NLCS and is eager to resourcefully seek
solutions. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Corporation
Communication</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Finally, the previously mentioned issues will all
be better addressed with open and impartial communication. Our corporation is strewn
with diverse employees, all with different ideas and concerns. Often, perhaps
because of the sheer size of our corporation, many employees feel they don’t
have an avenue to share those concerns.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
Strong relationships between board members,
administration, faculty, and staff can be built through regular and welcome
communication. Such communication can begin and continue through informal
meetings, board meetings, team building events, shared professional
development, school visits, and more. These entities will trust one another
when they realize all involved harbor no vendettas and want only the best for
students. Professional communication free of judgment will follow. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
An effective school board member recognizes the
need for open, impartial communication among all employees and advertises and
facilitates that process in order to inclusively and efficiently solve minor
and major corporation problems.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Bottom Line<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
While there are many more matters of concern
facing NLCS, these issues are the three I feel are most critical to putting
students in the best position to learn and achieve. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Despite any issues at hand, your votes for Board of Directors for North
Lawrence Community Schools should go to individuals who are hard-working,
informed agents of change who will put students and their learning and
achievement above all other matters.</i><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
There will be a free candidate forum at Bedford
Middle School’s Schafer Auditorium at 6:00 P.M. on Monday, October 22. Attend,
and hear what the candidates have to say. Listen for evidence of
student-centered approaches. If you cannot attend, learn more about the
candidates through meet-and-greets, interviews, or their websites.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
My motivation to share my thoughts comes from a
deep love of this community and the young people who live and learn in it. I
want what is best for them, which is what is best for all of us.</div>
Johttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635877192243288425noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5754577446004131293.post-18709765961472466512017-12-31T15:07:00.001-08:002018-01-02T05:59:39.825-08:00Running The Numbers - 2017<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKkjnuPOyqEgI86qxdd3OLgeiX1UqL-5N2Ha3It05YNIr3JIA8jlXd_vXf4s09M6njSSNfmmFPP_XboeX2fEvnAhQFhMwax1P7aMW6ScB26u_zmdox0hjAJNRSbC9qT789R0UZHfpnvOXc/s1600/20170820-MorningRun-23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="750" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKkjnuPOyqEgI86qxdd3OLgeiX1UqL-5N2Ha3It05YNIr3JIA8jlXd_vXf4s09M6njSSNfmmFPP_XboeX2fEvnAhQFhMwax1P7aMW6ScB26u_zmdox0hjAJNRSbC9qT789R0UZHfpnvOXc/s200/20170820-MorningRun-23.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Twin Caves Racing on August 20</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The year 2017 was a very happy running year for me overall. I discovered trails, found peace and happiness with running in general, PR'd in the mile, and had my highest volume ever. The obvious and gigantic negative in 2017 was Wendy's struggle with injury and illness. However, she is on the better side of a grisly surgery that will help her be able to do what she wants with her body again.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2017/11/run-happy.html" target="_blank">As you may remember</a>, I am scrapping time and distance goals in 2018 and have a single goal/aim/mantra: RUN HAPPY <span style="font-size: xx-small;">✌</span>. The fine print in that goal includes running when I want, how far I want, and how fast I want. It'll include tons of friends, trails, fun, and listening to my body so I know when it needs a break.<br />
<br />
Nonetheless, you know I will still maintain my data, because I loves me some numbers. Here is my numerical analysis of 2017. I especially love my monthly mileage. :-)<br />
<br />
<b><u>Running The 2017 Numbers</u></b><br />
Data collection and analysis is a hobby of mine. Therefore, I looooooove the end of the calendar year, because it provides a great opportunity for me to analyze what I've collected.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv7hdL_dsZ9MtfyDDNzqqG8lF40lLVmynlZDQj-F1vHMCOXk80zMwBhCzGiu9XqKYnX9eoa_XB3hvEGYm_LPBEGvqvz8c1Yvepbh9dhFSD_Lvd4E88NUCc7g4EON6YGwQWpqlZTlKckOf_/s1600/20170204-MorningRun-08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1196" data-original-width="1600" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv7hdL_dsZ9MtfyDDNzqqG8lF40lLVmynlZDQj-F1vHMCOXk80zMwBhCzGiu9XqKYnX9eoa_XB3hvEGYm_LPBEGvqvz8c1Yvepbh9dhFSD_Lvd4E88NUCc7g4EON6YGwQWpqlZTlKckOf_/s200/20170204-MorningRun-08.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cold run with Becky on February 4</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Miles Run</b>: 1,582.00 (avg. 30.34 mi. per week)<br />
<b>Increase Over Previous Annual Mileage High</b>: 1,170.00 mi., 35.21% increase<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<b>Runs</b>: 225 (60 more than 2016)<br />
<b>Hours Run</b>: 250.62 (10.44 days, or 2.86% of 2017)<br />
<b>Average Run Distance</b>: 7.03 mi.<br />
<b>Average Run Pace</b>: 9:30.30 min/mi.<br />
<b>Average Run Duration</b>: 1:06:49.9 hr.<br />
<div>
<b>Average Temperature During Runs</b>: 50.20°F<br />
<b>Temperature Range</b>: 85°F (High 83°F, <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1868963955" target="_blank">July 22</a>; low -2°F, <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1514213692" target="_blank">January 7</a>)<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjQr65kGoWioTYOeOiEyPP8CT03STIU9WSTRTMN_EDUIjol-PB6gCM8TR8FZ-B8rGnE6d0OGMZ6P6s0764Wve4K6imtHSXHJYIlmEW9MFnkiSZ0SWRTnkUDjl0lxJArL6sf9uQCDhl0wAx/s1600/20170430-TrackWorkout-02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="830" height="135" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjQr65kGoWioTYOeOiEyPP8CT03STIU9WSTRTMN_EDUIjol-PB6gCM8TR8FZ-B8rGnE6d0OGMZ6P6s0764Wve4K6imtHSXHJYIlmEW9MFnkiSZ0SWRTnkUDjl0lxJArL6sf9uQCDhl0wAx/s200/20170430-TrackWorkout-02.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Track workout with Wendy on April 30</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Feet Climbed</b>: 76,928 (14.57 mi.)<br />
<b>Average Feet Climbed Per Mile</b>: 48.63, 0.92% grade<br />
<b>MaeBe's Run Mileage</b>: 55.62<br />
<b>Miles Walked</b>: 58<br />
<b>Walks</b>: 39<br />
<b>Average Walk Distance</b>: 1.49 mi.<br />
<b>Strength Training Sessions at Novus</b>: 50<br />
<b>Cross Training Miles</b>: 0 (oops)</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<b>Races Run</b>: 14 (9 AG awards or T10s)<br />
<b>PRs Set</b>: 1, 6:51 in the mile on my 38th birthday, <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1772849902" target="_blank">June 1</a><br />
<b>DNFs</b>: 1, Seymour Half Marathon, <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1744195045" target="_blank">May 20</a><br />
<b>Falls</b>: 2, <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/2361345194" target="_blank">December 2</a> and <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/2402882775" target="_blank">December 29</a><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg23dofGNGbRDQzbnt1Of9gg4k5uDjd21JQonIYxfO9Q9ez3bJp0e9AehL5WLklX7W50uGptAlaGxEpgMZkjrJaKlrwygs8O3bI4lsaBq0mVXrGxT11ACugp3MAIZqswaTUkNRPRAOrKpa-/s1600/20171119-HarrodsCreekTrip-110.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="811" data-original-width="897" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg23dofGNGbRDQzbnt1Of9gg4k5uDjd21JQonIYxfO9Q9ez3bJp0e9AehL5WLklX7W50uGptAlaGxEpgMZkjrJaKlrwygs8O3bI4lsaBq0mVXrGxT11ACugp3MAIZqswaTUkNRPRAOrKpa-/s200/20171119-HarrodsCreekTrip-110.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trail race in Kentucky on November 19</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Injuries</b>: 0<br />
<b>Toenails Lost</b>: 7<br />
<b>Surgeries</b>: 0<br />
<b>Pairs of Shoes Retired</b>: 5<br />
<b>Pairs of Shoes Purchased</b>: 5<br />
<b>States Where I Ran</b>: 2, Indiana and Kentucky<br />
<b>Pictures Drawn</b>: 4: <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1620055339" target="_blank">pi on March 14</a>, <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1680497280" target="_blank">crosses on April 16</a>, <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1759440204" target="_blank">2017 on May 26</a>, and <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/2395750688" target="_blank">a tree on December 25</a><br />
<b>Longest Run</b>: 14.04 mi., <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/2020295420" target="_blank">September 30</a><br />
<b>Shortest Run</b>: 1.01 mi., <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1846046034" target="_blank">July 10</a><br />
<b>Week With Most Running</b>: July 23-29, 41.70 mi.<br />
<b>Month With Most Running</b>: August, 156.00 mi.<br />
<b>Month With Least Running</b>: September and November, each 110.00 mi.<br />
<b>Favorite Run</b>: <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/2220545802" target="_blank">October 28</a>, 12.62 mi. (Tecumseh... friends and beautiful fall scenery.)<br />
<b>Least Favorite Run</b>: <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1993591824" target="_blank">September 23</a>, 8.52 mi. (High humidity, improper fueling, picked up on Electric Avenue by Mom)<br />
<b>Percentage of Goals Reached</b>: 100% (7/7, see below)<br />
<b>Weight Range in Pounds</b>: 15.0 (two Crohn's flares)<br />
<b>Total Lifetime Mileage</b>: 7,970.00<br />
<b>Percent of Lifetime Mileage Run in 2017</b>: 19.85%<br />
<br />
<b><u>Mileage By The Month</u></b><br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
I did that weird number thing and made sure my monthly mileage totals were all whole numbers. It's very satisfying for me to see all that point-0-0! Also, including December 2016, I have a 13-month streak of 100+ miles per month. That will likely end this year as I intend to remove "mileage pressures."<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhscqTPoN2QWupAueLAK7Spt3CudQ7pn1ITzmg_JcotM-LQsB3s8pgoga3iojlGSrklPnehZRy7J81HWh5g9fJSVIORw8yaPTtC0ai7twrj4L-yY_aFcQy6s4OmoAHkwu9b6xj5_KbclX0d/s1600/20170612-MorningRun-06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhscqTPoN2QWupAueLAK7Spt3CudQ7pn1ITzmg_JcotM-LQsB3s8pgoga3iojlGSrklPnehZRy7J81HWh5g9fJSVIORw8yaPTtC0ai7twrj4L-yY_aFcQy6s4OmoAHkwu9b6xj5_KbclX0d/s200/20170612-MorningRun-06.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cool photo shoot with <br />
In The Dark Photography, June 12</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>January</b>: 116.00<br />
<b>February</b>: 112.00<br />
<b>March</b>: 132.00<br />
<b>April</b>: 116.00<br />
<b>May</b>: 133.00<br />
<b>June</b>: 146.00<br />
<b>July</b>: 155.00<br />
<b>August</b>: 156.00<br />
<b>September</b>: 110.00<br />
<b>October</b>: 146.00<br />
<b>November</b>: 110.00<br />
<b>December</b>: 150.00<br />
<br />
<div class="UFICommentContent" data-reactid=".1d.1:3:1:$comment391965017605989_1973606:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0">
<b><u>Jo's 2017 Fitness Goals</u></b><br />
<b>1. Remain injury-free.</b><br />
Check. I had some nagging stuff like sore post-tibs, an achy toe joint, and a good bruise from a fall to the knee. However, I took breaks when I needed and avoided the major stuff.<br />
<b>2. Run lots of miles with lots of friends.</b><br />
Total success here. I ran with more folks than I've ever run, and even made some new friends!<br />
<b>3. Run 1,200 annual miles.</b><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTFPwvzsHFnhkHZB8CfiN5qbZrBuP0_CAEd1MXbiBfNUtjsSuZYV0E31bzRCteiq9GVQT1Zkvsl6KPdck8JdutN_aktNrGVV87WRc3MFD3rqKM_j1Zi8Ebu_gSygjuXmshSVeKX1OCBW83/s1600/20170325-MorningRun-04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTFPwvzsHFnhkHZB8CfiN5qbZrBuP0_CAEd1MXbiBfNUtjsSuZYV0E31bzRCteiq9GVQT1Zkvsl6KPdck8JdutN_aktNrGVV87WRc3MFD3rqKM_j1Zi8Ebu_gSygjuXmshSVeKX1OCBW83/s200/20170325-MorningRun-04.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mitch, Eric, and Ryan on March 25</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Nailed it, plus 382. I had an unspoken secondary goal to get 100 or more miles per month, and I did that, too.<br />
<b>4. Run on dates I haven't run at least a mile outdoors (2018 extension allowed).</b><br />
Did it! Didn't need the 2018 extension!<br />
<b>5. Work on the committee to stage the BMS 5K.</b><br />
Yup.<br />
<b>6. Encourage another person or people to become more focused on fitness.</b><br />
Another success. I helped my friend Mitch and some of his friends, Eric and Ryan, train for their first half marathon which they ran in April. (I had to miss it because I was in the hospital with one of those Crohn's issues.) All three of them have continued running, setting goals, and kicking butt.<br />
<b>7. Build more muscle.</b><br />
<div>
Succeeded. Thanks, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NovusStrengthTraining" target="_blank">Novus</a>!</div>
</div>
<div class="UFICommentContent" data-reactid=".1d.1:3:1:$comment391965017605989_1973606:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0">
<br />
It was a really great year for my running. Thanks to everyone for the support! On to 2018!</div>
</div>
Johttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635877192243288425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5754577446004131293.post-57660677862318054282017-11-17T15:33:00.000-08:002017-11-17T15:33:10.659-08:00Run Happy ✌<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
I've often heard that when you're in your twenties, you think you know it all; when you're a thirty-something, you freak out because you realize that you <i>don't</i> know it all; and in your forties, you chill out and accept things as they are. I'm 38, so I think I'm starting to approach that chill acceptance stage. I'd like to share with the Interwebs how that acceptance relates to my running "career." (lol)<div>
<br /><div>
<b>Time</b></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibwYNOr_tdqxXY2tXwUD0Ucehq6AhJ5ftayonouO_GYOhQUaqnev2VJ9KYxORfDwvhpI6ai4b4Ku7qdEtBVUdD4ySrI-9z_fMhOUDzvwSFo9hwLSBVslLgxfGScvzT0VdyRPMNDLV1WREM/s1600/20170826-MorningRun-04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="769" data-original-width="543" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibwYNOr_tdqxXY2tXwUD0Ucehq6AhJ5ftayonouO_GYOhQUaqnev2VJ9KYxORfDwvhpI6ai4b4Ku7qdEtBVUdD4ySrI-9z_fMhOUDzvwSFo9hwLSBVslLgxfGScvzT0VdyRPMNDLV1WREM/s200/20170826-MorningRun-04.jpg" width="140" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">BARA Half, 08.26.2017</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
About a year ago, I decided I was over the constant PR pursuit. I was absolutely killing myself to nail down certain paces to run certain times that certainly didn't matter. I mean, a PR is a nice achievement, but I was chasing times because that's what I thought I <i>should </i>want as a runner. I surmised that if I didn't do my best and run my hardest every time I toed a start line, I wasn't doing it right. However, it turns out that constant speed chasing was causing me to fall out of love with running, not to mention stressing my Crohn's-disease-weakened bones. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Removing the time goals from my mind allowed me to relax and enjoy running for running's sake. I entered some races and tried some new things—like running a trail race—just to have some fun, with no worries about how long it took me. I paced some friends in their events, which actually fulfilled me more than racing ever did. In some races, if I wanted to run a little faster than usual, I did. Not once did I PR in 2016, and I didn't care. In 2017, I had one PR, and that was in the mile. It was the only time goal I sought in 2017, and I pursued it because I wanted to, not because I thought I had to. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I'm a lot happier since I removed time pressures from my running.</div>
<br />
<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf7yGQA1DkjThKlmomu5QtPTOb42rYVDhvRcRUynDzgQE9HSW-Kbm1ZYdDTOnR2gmCuh98HrzcexlRr15ITQjvzm6xbmSSgfSQSfp2XCQqqQoACDC9mrsuApXvhDxpE1pxsNChQwE7lAqd/s1600/20170930-Jo-01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1203" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf7yGQA1DkjThKlmomu5QtPTOb42rYVDhvRcRUynDzgQE9HSW-Kbm1ZYdDTOnR2gmCuh98HrzcexlRr15ITQjvzm6xbmSSgfSQSfp2XCQqqQoACDC9mrsuApXvhDxpE1pxsNChQwE7lAqd/s200/20170930-Jo-01.jpg" width="150" /></a><b>Twin Caves Racing</b></div>
<div>
This summer, I asked a few friends to join me for one of those fun races I mentioned earlier, a cross country 10K relay. Becky, Larry, and Jocelyn, friends of mine from Mitchell, agreed to "cross the river" and join me for the race in Bedford. They even said they would make me an official Twin Caves Racing member, but I had to join them on some trails first. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
My first run with them at <a href="http://www.in.gov/dnr/parklake/2968.htm" target="_blank">Spring Mill State Park</a> was on June 4. I was hooked on those trails and the stellar company immediately! I spent the summer getting stronger on the trails in the park. When we saw something pretty, we stopped to take a pic.When we were a bit tired, we stopped to rest. When Becky announced that she would be running <a href="http://www.dinoseries.com/tecumseh-trail-marathon/" target="_blank">Tecumseh</a>, a crazy-hilly trail half marathon, I said I'd give it a try, too. I had a blast at that race in October, where I ran the 13 most beautiful miles I've ever experienced. </div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSdAwe34_SlUcZT0Og2PGkUbVHGRD_Mw0dYQU2kf-8yPn_A2prxReDWwv7Vvo3SsUjTJ86KLbzGYveRXF77Sm7Sx-nrtdbro3CMjNx9XOKTF75clhKhaLx8m8OJrb_N02EeiftGjt8vWfs/s1600/20170820-MorningRun-03.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="465" data-original-width="615" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSdAwe34_SlUcZT0Og2PGkUbVHGRD_Mw0dYQU2kf-8yPn_A2prxReDWwv7Vvo3SsUjTJ86KLbzGYveRXF77Sm7Sx-nrtdbro3CMjNx9XOKTF75clhKhaLx8m8OJrb_N02EeiftGjt8vWfs/s200/20170820-MorningRun-03.png" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jocelyn, Larry, Jo, and Becky</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I've continued running trails with TCR into the autumn. We still run, rest, take pics, and have fun. Sunday, we're going to some trail race in Kentucky. Prospect, or something like that. I don't know where it is exactly. I don't know the course. I have no "race plan." I just can't wait to get into the woods and spend some time with friends.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I'm a lot happier since I found the serenity of trails with friends.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Volume</b></div>
<div>
Prior to 2017, the most miles I've ever run in a year has been 1,170. As I type this blog, I'm at 1,364.54 miles for 2017. Yes, I know it to the hundredth of a mile. :-) I've had a LOT of volume this year. It's been great. I've loved every mile... almost. Around September, I really started to feel worn down. The cure was a week off running, but the simple suggestion of time off terrified me. My thought process went something like this: <i>I'm averaging 30 miles a week. I have to keep it at 30 or above. I haven't had a month with less than 100 miles since November 2016. I have to keep it at 100 or above.</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1Wt_RI9bj7Yd4UevyrCOw58C61tyOtMScoBKQqU0aoqgnqcShCX9F4ClCm3QJXFPRscI2FYtG-I9DsP7N7XjRWfT5LX-xPLl5uhxYlouGPYG6uzMfbPTQTBI8H5dZfFPEK3rnamaeZiEF/s1600/20170506-TheMini%2521-55.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1334" height="111" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1Wt_RI9bj7Yd4UevyrCOw58C61tyOtMScoBKQqU0aoqgnqcShCX9F4ClCm3QJXFPRscI2FYtG-I9DsP7N7XjRWfT5LX-xPLl5uhxYlouGPYG6uzMfbPTQTBI8H5dZfFPEK3rnamaeZiEF/s200/20170506-TheMini%2521-55.png" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First time to kiss the bricks at the Mini</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
No, you don't. And no, you don't.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I've recently decided to bag the weekly/monthly/annual distance requirements I put on myself. Guess when I'm going to run? When I want to. Guess how far I'm going to run? How far I want to. I may run 10 miles in a week, or I may run 40. I may run 50 miles in a month, or I may run 150. Whatever the volume is, it'll be because that's what I want to do. When I train for a marathon/half-marathon/5K/whatevs, it'll be because I want to.</div>
<div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_sCuxQWzZ7gyHKeTsEDR3NsD7oqTJhFP671jBF1LuuHrKgb-j0qsMIJI8Yvp2mleVODOk6VrChn4jtOKLSrGuaYXDtfg86didsOOdOrz2nkKwtCq5giczr98BtBRZxjSy3h-aYjsm6wci/s1600/20171007-BedfordHalfMarathon-15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_sCuxQWzZ7gyHKeTsEDR3NsD7oqTJhFP671jBF1LuuHrKgb-j0qsMIJI8Yvp2mleVODOk6VrChn4jtOKLSrGuaYXDtfg86didsOOdOrz2nkKwtCq5giczr98BtBRZxjSy3h-aYjsm6wci/s200/20171007-BedfordHalfMarathon-15.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zach, Jo, Mitch, and Ryan</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
I'm a lot happier since I decided I can run when I want, how far I want.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Conclusion</b></div>
<div>
The conclusion is as follows: I am so much happier and healthier when running is my passion and not my requirement. I run to stay fit, I run to be with friends, I run to enjoy the outdoors, and I run to be happy. I don't run to write a distance and pace in my running log (though you know this data-hound will still keep a spreadsheet, kids). "Liberating" is the only way to describe it.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Every December, I write goals for the upcoming calendar year. I've always included some time goals and at least one distance goal. Last year, I scrapped the time goals. When I write my 2018 goals, I'm scrapping distance goals. In fact, I think I'll be narrowing down my annual goals to one:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">RUN HAPPY. ✌</span></div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>PS - Happy Pics...</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKNRQ15zu3NuApGZ6yV-Icx_B1XjyDYxzyGKM43TcrLMHxexkqd-sNc8ZTA64QmbN3bH_-GaEhAN5HwnuSwNHcDMJAGv5A8UTdDaAgrHQcrjV_uxC4a1psExU1dITFUIlH2hE-2pUSbyUJ/s1600/20170506-TheMini%2521-69.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="664" data-original-width="1291" height="163" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKNRQ15zu3NuApGZ6yV-Icx_B1XjyDYxzyGKM43TcrLMHxexkqd-sNc8ZTA64QmbN3bH_-GaEhAN5HwnuSwNHcDMJAGv5A8UTdDaAgrHQcrjV_uxC4a1psExU1dITFUIlH2hE-2pUSbyUJ/s320/20170506-TheMini%2521-69.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fun moment at the Mini</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk2dltpjcZzdm7RIVDBFn6BO293SxOhWZxemh3kZCYk1078Uf-BdTSXGIfkFkjzTPbRbpDqYA1zyaBYcQsJdCcOrxWbfTu0Se6d8pUdSr6SolzK-y9SbrGcrgetNStGojj3G6VsufDcqZG/s1600/20171021-MorningRunAtPatoka-04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk2dltpjcZzdm7RIVDBFn6BO293SxOhWZxemh3kZCYk1078Uf-BdTSXGIfkFkjzTPbRbpDqYA1zyaBYcQsJdCcOrxWbfTu0Se6d8pUdSr6SolzK-y9SbrGcrgetNStGojj3G6VsufDcqZG/s320/20171021-MorningRunAtPatoka-04.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful sunrise at Patoka Lake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjofrAmBzylS5XaOiEL9h058kLOtY_xLTrRSrqEfCgNfgys_XF2S9nTqs__fgHlCyl8qB8x_SMvcPgTXjOVX3PGIKNDl0mjW6kWMkiNqKqQ3MT3JAuYQIVR-7-T7xSsly83XLv6MAOO52DH/s1600/20171028-Tecumseh-17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjofrAmBzylS5XaOiEL9h058kLOtY_xLTrRSrqEfCgNfgys_XF2S9nTqs__fgHlCyl8qB8x_SMvcPgTXjOVX3PGIKNDl0mjW6kWMkiNqKqQ3MT3JAuYQIVR-7-T7xSsly83XLv6MAOO52DH/s320/20171028-Tecumseh-17.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tecumseh FUN!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzk-LtVD4p7fIWKLNin7UXo4vU2eifAFY6ym5UiB-0KLl8TZzS08BVmQZvVR84Opw3KuOSQihtiMsLGit7fzGCD99x7tEtaEuNgpdfWBQ-gZqCQmoCBC-dkTAIt3UEsf7HhB1xZdhP-tlB/s1600/20171104-Monumental-57.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1072" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzk-LtVD4p7fIWKLNin7UXo4vU2eifAFY6ym5UiB-0KLl8TZzS08BVmQZvVR84Opw3KuOSQihtiMsLGit7fzGCD99x7tEtaEuNgpdfWBQ-gZqCQmoCBC-dkTAIt3UEsf7HhB1xZdhP-tlB/s320/20171104-Monumental-57.jpg" width="214" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Monumental finish</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOzHjPwk-fnitE4I3d3dP-TdTR-9psOpjMXn47ZYfFVi2y4aaSIetyirBys7zUPPpNZknOFjq9RxGX9KSc4CzZNu9NCaOBIZrit16x93TXS5w0OjfWLPumWwgkLCFGo66TlKtUhl3ZH13O/s1600/20170601-Birthday%2521-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1451" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOzHjPwk-fnitE4I3d3dP-TdTR-9psOpjMXn47ZYfFVi2y4aaSIetyirBys7zUPPpNZknOFjq9RxGX9KSc4CzZNu9NCaOBIZrit16x93TXS5w0OjfWLPumWwgkLCFGo66TlKtUhl3ZH13O/s320/20170601-Birthday%2521-10.jpg" width="290" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Wendy and MaeBe on my birthday</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf2yA1mXG1TEkrFuSXrItkIqYp1RDm8HGWBxrf7OPGqLrh-53nr8Fq2AxPVNCBV3fBscAUIKlaXL4xCiQJhDVyPCe1KU2N88WmZHeScldQUikU60Dk8Ga_GKLTdwrnV27uWX01oLifX70U/s1600/20170601-Birthday%2521-44.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf2yA1mXG1TEkrFuSXrItkIqYp1RDm8HGWBxrf7OPGqLrh-53nr8Fq2AxPVNCBV3fBscAUIKlaXL4xCiQJhDVyPCe1KU2N88WmZHeScldQUikU60Dk8Ga_GKLTdwrnV27uWX01oLifX70U/s320/20170601-Birthday%2521-44.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Schanzel and Jill at the Monumental Mile</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1q8KQcgFSSucdoJ8H0tsjbWhqfzd0k9JdQwYX7t-ISoQIXSLnWUJ3TktqlSeQCK4hpJl9SHBmMuHcsRuwymx69FD2mQ17R3VegZximRMhLraaudQFzZ42kTfT_fOhebY7Hs3cTrvPYCKM/s1600/20170708-MorningRun-12.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1334" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1q8KQcgFSSucdoJ8H0tsjbWhqfzd0k9JdQwYX7t-ISoQIXSLnWUJ3TktqlSeQCK4hpJl9SHBmMuHcsRuwymx69FD2mQ17R3VegZximRMhLraaudQFzZ42kTfT_fOhebY7Hs3cTrvPYCKM/s320/20170708-MorningRun-12.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Twin Caves plunge on a hot day</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaMoP7GCEpVxL02E3_nWB-KNoSjedZ_q2T5QCAoVzvqG8LLAoN2-MPvIgFMGHFwKXfMAc79W_pgPELG38Evk6VQLUsNZphnUXE7IZaxWuf3MTrdacstoG54k_kW3kUtHls1nws8zwmLZ1z/s1600/20170731-MorningRun-06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1587" data-original-width="1600" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaMoP7GCEpVxL02E3_nWB-KNoSjedZ_q2T5QCAoVzvqG8LLAoN2-MPvIgFMGHFwKXfMAc79W_pgPELG38Evk6VQLUsNZphnUXE7IZaxWuf3MTrdacstoG54k_kW3kUtHls1nws8zwmLZ1z/s320/20170731-MorningRun-06.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LOL</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLeZ97btHxu8NaaHvOwDx8baHb5eQhREvVZruprpF-lhyLQCp9EBP8ELhDwNRpspGIDI8EVbY5HaA6sDUIkp7HaJ08ueEPJ6JeqVwzlUkoW0SM07_Pa9k3AF7Srbw4amUGQnNSNWcAelTY/s1600/20170917-MorningRun-03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLeZ97btHxu8NaaHvOwDx8baHb5eQhREvVZruprpF-lhyLQCp9EBP8ELhDwNRpspGIDI8EVbY5HaA6sDUIkp7HaJ08ueEPJ6JeqVwzlUkoW0SM07_Pa9k3AF7Srbw4amUGQnNSNWcAelTY/s320/20170917-MorningRun-03.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spring Mill beauty with Becky and Larry</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiniwIlnrbOk4qQRrI-JvI8EedycHSSoi-RrY4PH-j8xO2eYvRQVB5qrl99FoaH25nm4zZWn1THmZppKOaAWfzc9zSt36TaOUQEcFdKLLnmTS6NSNRwzA_9Gti0PPbb07jsmsqWvx8x8qIu/s1600/20171021-MorningRunAtPatoka-16.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1334" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiniwIlnrbOk4qQRrI-JvI8EedycHSSoi-RrY4PH-j8xO2eYvRQVB5qrl99FoaH25nm4zZWn1THmZppKOaAWfzc9zSt36TaOUQEcFdKLLnmTS6NSNRwzA_9Gti0PPbb07jsmsqWvx8x8qIu/s320/20171021-MorningRunAtPatoka-16.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At Patoka with Larry and Becky</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW7kDiI6VICnf-ybszDvtH9pV86pGtO4VEwnMhc3Y2KZmtLGAJBD04pVY5dEhEoUcHBi_OKSF0eAaxUKh3ITQYApgNtKevcZpk6col7aN8EyX-LRJHDiFRa_lpxTqRu_OtVzdwyvCMhfvM/s1600/20171021-MorningRunAtPatoka-22.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1334" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW7kDiI6VICnf-ybszDvtH9pV86pGtO4VEwnMhc3Y2KZmtLGAJBD04pVY5dEhEoUcHBi_OKSF0eAaxUKh3ITQYApgNtKevcZpk6col7aN8EyX-LRJHDiFRa_lpxTqRu_OtVzdwyvCMhfvM/s320/20171021-MorningRunAtPatoka-22.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another Patoka shot</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Johttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635877192243288425noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5754577446004131293.post-6057377346672858442016-12-31T08:29:00.002-08:002016-12-31T13:32:23.758-08:00Running The Numbers - 2016<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKh0F3GD0j3RMKGmk2NnIxQGZ_51egK1ZUGu-4rotptkXG0GvZzUo7WOKy-17JGZkNfa_fI6bq1S0_XLlUk84EIwzJguRVLXj1EO9xgz0CKh8MbFIKl4MgimcGdjjUXemmjACujV0ius15/s1600/20161022-CommodoreRun-16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKh0F3GD0j3RMKGmk2NnIxQGZ_51egK1ZUGu-4rotptkXG0GvZzUo7WOKy-17JGZkNfa_fI6bq1S0_XLlUk84EIwzJguRVLXj1EO9xgz0CKh8MbFIKl4MgimcGdjjUXemmjACujV0ius15/s200/20161022-CommodoreRun-16.jpg" width="143" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Commodore Run - 10.22.16</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Before I run down the 2016 numbers and events, I would like to list my 2017 goals, mostly because I'm particularly excited about #4 and #6.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Jo's 2017 Fitness Goals</u></b><br />
<b>1. Remain injury-free.</b><br />
This goal is the most important. Everything else comes from staying injury-free.<br />
<b>2. Run lots of miles with lots of friends.</b><br />
...because I want running to be fun.<br />
<b>3. Run 1,200 annual miles.</b><br />
That's the A Goal. It means an average of 100 mi./month. I walk (run, ha) that fine line between volume and injury, so I realize this goal is ambitious. The B Goal is to PR, over 1,170 mi. The C Goal is to reach 1,000 mi.<br />
<b>4. Run on dates I haven't run at least a mile outdoors (2018 extension allowed).</b><br />
You guys. I have 37 calendar dates on which I have not run more than a mile outdoors. I'm going to hit as much of them as I can this year, but I'm allowing myself a 2018 extension. If I'm sick or need rest, I don't want to force myself to run a mile just because of what date it is. By the way, August, September, and December are already at 100%.<br />
<b>5. Work on the committee to stage the BMS 5K.</b><br />
It's the tenth running!<br />
<b>6. Encourage another person or people to become more focused on fitness.</b><br />
I made a little training schedule for my friend and colleague, Mitch. We're going to run the <a href="http://www.hoosierhalf.com/" target="_blank">Hoosier Half Marathon</a> together in April. It'll be his first half. I can't wait!<br />
<b>7. Build more muscle.</b><br />
<div>
I want to be more consistent with my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NovusStrengthTraining" target="_blank">Novus</a> sessions in 2017.</div>
<br />
<b><u>The Year That Was 2016</u></b><br />
The year of our Lord 2016 may have been a crazy year in general, but it was a nice year for my running. Here are some of the highlight moments for me, in no particular order, from 2016.<br />
<br />
◙<b> Chillin' The Mini.</b> I chose to run, walk, stop, take pics, and talk to friends during <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1158100675" target="_blank">this year's Indy Mini</a>. It was my favorite Mini ever. I even got Frank Shorter to sign my top. I was also able to finish with my cousin, Terry.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-82DoEgxkhi6iYojqU9YJd6vaJxu_kEG3oA9DhO5W-zK3lOxts-nRKOcXMr2YMdzpm77pMVanHAZZndRI6gY45POg2fSZuCHmhOvJwDmFdmlFWZQHaGUsHWPcG_SUTizwtJte3mXaaPHC/s1600/20160130-EmpirePyramidRun-21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-82DoEgxkhi6iYojqU9YJd6vaJxu_kEG3oA9DhO5W-zK3lOxts-nRKOcXMr2YMdzpm77pMVanHAZZndRI6gY45POg2fSZuCHmhOvJwDmFdmlFWZQHaGUsHWPcG_SUTizwtJte3mXaaPHC/s200/20160130-EmpirePyramidRun-21.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Adventure Run Photoshop - 1.30.16</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
◙ <b>Photoshops.</b> Wendy and I take pics of each other on runs, and then photoshop them together. We've made some dandies this year.<br />
<br />
◙ <b>Running With MaeBe.</b> She loves it.<br />
<br />
◙ <b>Listening To My Body.</b> On <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1350492100" target="_blank">September 10</a>, I decided <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2016/09/6000-exhaustion-torch.html" target="_blank">not to run a marathon this year</a>. I felt weak for about 0.5 sec., and then I had some of the best running days of my life because all the pressure was off. Dad has been telling me to "listen to my body" for years.<br />
<br />
◙ <b>Indiana Bicentennial Torch Relay.</b> It was <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2016/09/a-top-10-day-i-was-torchbearer.html" target="_blank">a Top 10 moment</a> in my life. It was less of a <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1362061254" target="_blank">running moment</a> and more of a historical event; but it involved running, so I'm including it here.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJoUai5ZNDwm0ILYAN1oPrIbtIXjWxzmbvdoWO-DjhPcXWPKhRUXV6PVc3z8eqLe_WfIu04WPl2jZkBOAzVypCwPjNnCUR9Em_OksCJrqmSsibWKaXnvcdfjBU41wO-uT78haptlvgIZN2/s1600/20160628-MyrtleBeachTrip-55.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJoUai5ZNDwm0ILYAN1oPrIbtIXjWxzmbvdoWO-DjhPcXWPKhRUXV6PVc3z8eqLe_WfIu04WPl2jZkBOAzVypCwPjNnCUR9Em_OksCJrqmSsibWKaXnvcdfjBU41wO-uT78haptlvgIZN2/s200/20160628-MyrtleBeachTrip-55.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Marriage Spot - 6.28.16</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
◙ <b>Myrtle Beach Anniversary.</b> Ed and I celebrated 10 years of marriage by visiting the exact spot where we were wed. I was able to do two beach runs, as well (<a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1232445071" target="_blank">1</a>, <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1233817694" target="_blank">2</a>).<br />
<br />
◙ <b>Dat Sign!</b> Seriously, when my parents and in-laws put my face and name on the Electric Avenue sign, I received one of the neatest Christmas gifts ever. It was pretty cool to see it over and over as I ran during the last week of the year.<br />
<br />
◙ <b>Picture Maps.</b> I made <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1084752422" target="_blank">pi</a> on Pi Day, <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1100629357" target="_blank">some crosses</a> on Easter, <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1177945216" target="_blank">2016</a> to honor the graduates, and a <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1243610010" target="_blank">weak star</a> with Wendy. Those are fun.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLrM5rsM6eBNIPZpkOD1ZurcPRmgHmhFm4n3sdU4ZB5cJT4V4FPWQQuXkr0zfTNNhhSUJ6kZ9SR2BUPLh3cooX4XeVT8TW_-U36m9eZlGwT9AD50IH7fe8x5Z831yO_4hAyM_QNdqRCozI/s1600/20161105-Monumental-61.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLrM5rsM6eBNIPZpkOD1ZurcPRmgHmhFm4n3sdU4ZB5cJT4V4FPWQQuXkr0zfTNNhhSUJ6kZ9SR2BUPLh3cooX4XeVT8TW_-U36m9eZlGwT9AD50IH7fe8x5Z831yO_4hAyM_QNdqRCozI/s200/20161105-Monumental-61.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before Monumental - 11.5.16</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
◙ <b>Adventure Runs.</b> Wendy and I ran to some new places that had surprise endings for Wendy (<a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1008945295" target="_blank">Palestine</a>, <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1032727140" target="_blank">Pyramids</a>, etc.). Those were fun. I have more planned.<br />
<br />
◙ <b>Mom.</b> She came with me to almost every race, and we had SUCH. FUN.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Running The 2016 Numbers</u></b><br />
Data collection and analysis is a hobby of mine. Therefore, I looooooove the end of the calendar year, because it provides a great opportunity for me to analyze what I've collected.<br />
<br />
<b>Miles Run</b>: 1,170.00<br />
<b>Increase Over Previous Annual Mileage High</b>: 1,154.00 mi., 1.4% increase<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<b>Runs</b>: 165 (exactly the same as 2015)<br />
<b>Hours Run</b>: 187.30<br />
<b>Average Run Distance</b>: 7.09 mi.<br />
<b>Average Run Pace</b>: 9:36.31<br />
<b>Average Run Duration</b>: 1:08:06.6<br />
<div>
<b>Average Temperature During Runs</b>: 49.43°F<br />
<b>Temperature Range</b>: 81°F (High 84°F, <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1216188703" target="_blank">June 16</a>; low 3°F, <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1019255109" target="_blank">January 18</a>)<br />
<b>Feet Climbed:</b> 53,589 (10.15mi)<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrYzLIWEZvgKqgMyFeUA1BOqc6eIugbzfX5PCIgfqZMpYi1yXBugX5BgOOc21X9tGlrE3x7voQLzKzlt32_GV0GuEDk2m9PRRBdxNKQnXCzwrnIwqsmE2h4i9EUV6b0G3LVoTcWPkaqd8W/s1600/20160914-IndianaBicentennialTorchRelay-Jerry-08.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrYzLIWEZvgKqgMyFeUA1BOqc6eIugbzfX5PCIgfqZMpYi1yXBugX5BgOOc21X9tGlrE3x7voQLzKzlt32_GV0GuEDk2m9PRRBdxNKQnXCzwrnIwqsmE2h4i9EUV6b0G3LVoTcWPkaqd8W/s200/20160914-IndianaBicentennialTorchRelay-Jerry-08.png" width="156" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Torch Relay - 9.14.16</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Average Feet Climbed Per Mile:</b> 45.80, 0.87% grade<br />
<b>Miles Walked</b>: 152.6<br />
<b>Walks</b>: 85<br />
<b>Average Walk Distance</b>: 1.80 mi.<br />
<b>Strength Training Sessions at Novus</b>: 30<br />
<b>Cross Training Miles</b>: 84.24 (8.26 kayak, 75.98 bike)</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<b>Races Run</b>: 11<br />
<b>PRs Set</b>: 0<br />
<b>Falls</b>: 2<br />
<b>Injuries</b>: 2... ish (See below.)<br />
<b>Toenails Lost</b>: 7<br />
<b>Surgeries</b>: 0<br />
<b>Pairs of Shoes Retired</b>: 3<br />
<b>Pairs of Shoes Purchased</b>: 3<br />
<b>States Where I Ran</b>: 2, Indiana & South Carolina<br />
<b>Longest Run</b>: 16.01 mi., <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1337565903" target="_blank">September 4</a><br />
<b>Shortest Run</b>: 0.52 mi., <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1362061254" target="_blank">September 14</a><br />
<b>Week With Most Running</b>: September 4-10, 42.08 mi., also the week I decided to drop to the half<br />
<b>Month With Most Running</b>: August, 126.94 mi.<br />
<b>Month With Least Running</b>: May, 50.93 mi.<br />
<b>Favorite Run (Tie)</b>: <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1362061254" target="_blank">September 14</a>, 0.52 mi., obviously.<br />
<b>Least Favorite Run</b>: <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1150037224" target="_blank">April 30</a>, 1.02 mi., when I realized I was too hurt to run.<br />
<b>Percentage of Goals Reached</b>: 66.67% (4/6, see below)<br />
<b>Weight Range in Pounds</b>: 6.2<br />
<b>Total Lifetime Mileage</b>: 6,388.00<br />
<b>Percent of Lifetime Mileage Run in 2016</b>: 18.32%<br />
<br />
<b><u>Mileage By The Month</u></b><br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<b>January</b>: 113.31<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG8kf4oWuDkP8ehkV60Wz1b_InCjjWAcpqcA6WgDkxaaMhT1Q0tEBUDTRNywPWuVHgWdf0DBJ7nwtk_lO6lUkZMHLcUEMxaUmFe_NeUSn6YKNvxEnAWsXzWVFU6B8vSUUF9MwQEQ_sPUw5/s1600/20161231-EASign-14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="136" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG8kf4oWuDkP8ehkV60Wz1b_InCjjWAcpqcA6WgDkxaaMhT1Q0tEBUDTRNywPWuVHgWdf0DBJ7nwtk_lO6lUkZMHLcUEMxaUmFe_NeUSn6YKNvxEnAWsXzWVFU6B8vSUUF9MwQEQ_sPUw5/s200/20161231-EASign-14.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Electric Avenue Sign - 12.31.16</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>February</b>: 120.45<br />
<b>March</b>: 77.62<br />
<b>April</b>: 69.86<br />
<b>May</b>: 50.93<br />
<b>June</b>: 66.79<br />
<b>July</b>: 119.66<br />
<b>August</b>: 126.94<br />
<b>September</b>: 109.99<br />
<b>October</b>: 124.44<br />
<b>November</b>: 84.99<br />
<b>December</b>: 105.02<br />
<br />
<b><u>Goals</u></b><br />
<div class="UFICommentContent" data-reactid=".1d.1:3:1:$comment391965017605989_1973606:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0">
<b>Jo's 2016 Fitness Goals: </b><br />
<b>1. Remain injury-free.</b><br />
Failed. I had a mystery quad/hamstring injury in April and May, and some sort of illness that may or may not have been a running injury in May and June.<br />
<b>2. Run lots of miles with lots of friends.</b><br />
Succeeded.<br />
<b>3. Run 1,200 annual miles.</b><br />
Failed, by only 30 miles. I'm not disappointed, though. I ran the most miles I've ever run in a year, and that was with an injury.<br />
<b>4. Work on the committee to stage the BMS 5K.</b><br />
Succeeded, and beat the boss. Fourth year in a row.<br />
<b>5. Encourage another person or people to become more focused on fitness.</b><br />
Succeeded. I helped a few folks run their first races, too.</div>
<div class="UFICommentContent" data-reactid=".1d.1:3:1:$comment391965017605989_1973606:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0">
<div>
</div>
<span style="color: black;"><span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".1d.1:3:1:$comment391965017605989_1973606:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.0:$comment-body"><span data-reactid=".1d.1:3:1:$comment391965017605989_1973606:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.0:$comment-body.0.$end:0:$20:0"><b>6. Build more muscle.</b></span></span><span data-reactid=".1d.1:3:1:$comment391965017605989_1973606:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.3"></span></span><br />
Succeeded. Thanks, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NovusStrengthTraining" target="_blank">Novus</a>!<br />
<br />
Thanks to everyone for the support! On to 2017!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGRlWXTN_vK-wKe6cF-nS3ut_RW6Dk_MyMe04NS0CCw2tiL5pKg0YUSYrfHw-mwS5mjFYaVmjv9yX003DLXrHbqflalns4yFWd0ZA0wlQ7fjvAJsouBG5c7d6dhR5F-pEVHRHzVHbaFrXB/s1600/20160507-IndyMini-091.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGRlWXTN_vK-wKe6cF-nS3ut_RW6Dk_MyMe04NS0CCw2tiL5pKg0YUSYrfHw-mwS5mjFYaVmjv9yX003DLXrHbqflalns4yFWd0ZA0wlQ7fjvAJsouBG5c7d6dhR5F-pEVHRHzVHbaFrXB/s200/20160507-IndyMini-091.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mini Finish - 5.2.16</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
</div>
Johttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635877192243288425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5754577446004131293.post-23382995376278594442016-09-18T15:51:00.002-07:002016-09-18T18:06:23.275-07:00A Top 10 Day: I Was A Torchbearer<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-6rbYRx7PTffDF19MwDP4BScG-ksednLa7pO79ZkaN6RHAXKs8sfp1mRiQ9hhfcM6sl5RMzAu9A_1cen449UDihztufCOAnJ64iRIYfGTOvD-OZ8btORsjpWDW7Z1fm2KahdKnFpkK9B6/s1600/20160914-IndianaBicentennialTorchRelay-Professional-02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="171" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-6rbYRx7PTffDF19MwDP4BScG-ksednLa7pO79ZkaN6RHAXKs8sfp1mRiQ9hhfcM6sl5RMzAu9A_1cen449UDihztufCOAnJ64iRIYfGTOvD-OZ8btORsjpWDW7Z1fm2KahdKnFpkK9B6/s200/20160914-IndianaBicentennialTorchRelay-Professional-02.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Indiana Bicentennial Torch Relay<br />
(<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">photo: IN Bicentennial Commission)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
One year ago, I heard about the <a href="http://www.in.gov/ibc/torchrelay/" target="_blank">Indiana Bicentennial Torch Relay</a>, "designed to inspire and unify Hoosiers as one of the major commemorative events of the 2016 Bicentennial celebration." I registered to volunteer at the Lawrence County celebration, taught the suggested lesson to my students about the math and science behind a high-tech torch designed by Purdue engineering students, and researched the historic <a href="http://www.in.gov/ibc/torchrelay/2624.htm" target="_blank">92-county, 3,200-mile route</a> the torch would take.<br />
<br />
On a rather sad, rainy July 4 where every fun event had been rained-out, I learned I had been nominated to be a torchbearer. I remember staring at the message on my phone. It started to blur as I began to cry. I was a torchbearer!<br />
<br />
<b>The Anticipation</b><br />
Fast forward to 4:30 P.M. on Wednesday, September 14. I was standing in my torchbearer's gear on Hwy 37 outside Arby's, the designated starting point for my 0.5-mi leg of the relay. I was scheduled to start at 5:30, but Lawrence County torchbearers had received an email informing us that the torch had reached the county line 15 minutes early.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaKwWZm8G1uT53WJvFHNhOTO_j2zQ-Iyo0pOOl5M8zUCPcBOYhRr8DG1-uVwYBRfWphhnaKoP0aSJ15fwdMzFg5G4dAmFXvpvUZN_4yT1B75lz3qLqvnxAXZ9ocCQdQi5eY5OVpJeQyiuk/s1600/20160914-IndianaBicentennialTorchRelay-Hilary-01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaKwWZm8G1uT53WJvFHNhOTO_j2zQ-Iyo0pOOl5M8zUCPcBOYhRr8DG1-uVwYBRfWphhnaKoP0aSJ15fwdMzFg5G4dAmFXvpvUZN_4yT1B75lz3qLqvnxAXZ9ocCQdQi5eY5OVpJeQyiuk/s200/20160914-IndianaBicentennialTorchRelay-Hilary-01.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fun while waiting</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Because Mom, Dad, Ed, and MaeBe were waiting at my "finish line" at 23rd Street, Noelle and Elizabeth, fellow BMS teachers and very good friends, had told me they would come hang out with me while I waited. Noelle was the first to arrive, but much to my surprise, even more friends came. Family, running friends, more BMS teachers, and even some of my students were gathering on the highway. More people had set up lawn chairs in the Arby's parking lot.<br />
<br />
The appointed starting time came and went. I became nervous that all these people were going to be frustrated about standing outside on a warm day when they could be inside with Netflix and air conditioning. However, there was NO complaining. The atmosphere was electric. Hilary, another BMS teacher, kept saying, "This is HISTORY!" Arby's employees saw us all outside and brought us free drinks.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjan9ww97kMiJuVw0WZScpezAqdqwWWxfORZk01SofwExfo5n-pYedmyCnjHBFIuhfW0FAnsNc63l6Zz3g9mV7vc-n_uDT7IYENmQMPfpOejVs8AcRBWrTX_J4HYEi1XPt4kfR9iwNxFpY2/s1600/20160914-IndianaBicentennialTorchRelay-20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjan9ww97kMiJuVw0WZScpezAqdqwWWxfORZk01SofwExfo5n-pYedmyCnjHBFIuhfW0FAnsNc63l6Zz3g9mV7vc-n_uDT7IYENmQMPfpOejVs8AcRBWrTX_J4HYEi1XPt4kfR9iwNxFpY2/s200/20160914-IndianaBicentennialTorchRelay-20.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting the torch from Lauren</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
One of my students told me the next day that she had never seen me look so jittery or talk so fast. I could not calm down. I was nervous about successfully carrying the "heavy" (3.5-lb), flaming torch, excited that the event was imminent, and full of enthusiasm that a big bunch of wonderful people were there to celebrate Lawrence County and Indiana with me.<br />
<br />
Around 6:30, an hour later than planned, we saw Lauren Winnefeld approaching with the Torch Relay Motorcade. A bunch of geese squawked as they flew overhead in groups. Someone said, "I feel like we should sing the National Anthem." It was time.<br />
<br />
<b>Carrying The Torch</b><br />
You might think it's a ridiculous claim, but it's true: the next <a href="https://www.strava.com/dashboard" target="_blank">four minutes and 31 seconds</a> were some of the best of my life. I realize I was running, something I do all the time, but the circumstances were special. I was overcome with thoughts and feelings. Here are the ones I can put into words.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrjO2LJ-wSg2CtDW9JNx3dv6-I4AV3g_RjolC8g_V4XYgoRu3kCyfWdOoKslfOhWEsOkDXi9MitJQP1fcOAd8a5nkZ9VWExhEfBa0XDT9-e9Vh3D3SzbNmXZhV-vBXAslGVswrfU2BmOU0/s1600/20160914-IndianaBicentennialTorchRelay-Christy-03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrjO2LJ-wSg2CtDW9JNx3dv6-I4AV3g_RjolC8g_V4XYgoRu3kCyfWdOoKslfOhWEsOkDXi9MitJQP1fcOAd8a5nkZ9VWExhEfBa0XDT9-e9Vh3D3SzbNmXZhV-vBXAslGVswrfU2BmOU0/s200/20160914-IndianaBicentennialTorchRelay-Christy-03.jpg" width="182" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Overcome!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<ul>
<li><i><u>I love Lawrence County, Indiana.</u></i> I am so full of pride for our little community. In that moment, I was representing the county for our state. Because I am a student of local history, I also thought about our ancestors moving from Palestine at the river into Bedford, the same direction I was moving. That notion got me thinking about Indiana's and Lawrence County's 200-year history in general. Much has been done, much to do.</li>
<li><i><u>This is once-in-a-lifetime.</u></i> I will not be alive for a tricentennial. It's unlikely that an Olympic torch will run Hwy 37 in Bedford. This event will never happen again. I was doing something I would never do again.</li>
<li><i><u>People GET this.</u> </i>At the start, all those folks waited patiently and eagerly. My family did the same at my finish. While I was running, people passed me in their cars cheering, phones out the window taking pics. The celebration was charged with elation.</li>
<li><i><u>I am part of something.</u></i> This was the biggest feeling for me. Sure, anyone could move that torch from point A to point B, but in that moment, that person was <i>me</i>. <i>I</i> was the torchbearer. It was my job to keep this statewide relay going. The event depended on me. I was needed. I was part of something important, historical, and exciting. I was a torchbearer!</li>
</ul>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxlXt0BwcN8YwRiGF_wt8__R6lYk2FsqjAVNRkZ4YTs4wrzPwTGGlEi6GQyDg6aI2W0Ry7hEwjV-BCuks6ofAUB4WNBoI7hyphenhyphenL0jnfhVTBc0zXpy2W5wHjHqNsrFNTbWgh_qiUaPgTrxfbP/s1600/20160914-IndianaBicentennialTorchRelay-30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxlXt0BwcN8YwRiGF_wt8__R6lYk2FsqjAVNRkZ4YTs4wrzPwTGGlEi6GQyDg6aI2W0Ry7hEwjV-BCuks6ofAUB4WNBoI7hyphenhyphenL0jnfhVTBc0zXpy2W5wHjHqNsrFNTbWgh_qiUaPgTrxfbP/s200/20160914-IndianaBicentennialTorchRelay-30.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Torch selfie with Jimmy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Naturally, I started crying almost immediately.<br />
<br />
You can see <a href="https://www.facebook.com/jokai/posts/10210659529469491" target="_blank">WBIW's live video of the first two minutes of my leg</a> on facebook. I've watched it several times, but my mind's eye still remembers the perspective of <i>doing </i>it better than viewing it. It was unforgettable and moving, and I consider it a Top 10 moment in my life, easily.<br />
<br />
When I finished, I passed the torch to my good friend, Jimmy Sowders. He took a "torch selfie" with me, and then began his part of the relay.<br />
<br />
<b>The Aftermath</b><br />
A bunch of us headed downtown afterward in order to watch Becky Skillman light the cauldron by the courthouse. Ed and I played some music on the Harp Commons stage. I was singing the Lawrence County verse I wrote for "I've Been Everywhere" when she lit it. MaeBe got her picture taken by the Indiana Bicentennial Commission. Torchbearers, families, and other community members shared torch stories on a beautiful evening.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnPZNm1fpHewyf-91INMioPmL-RpqZE01PQzyOe_OVl42aPj67ooKZYhbR0YmklywRuvJ5pgXOA1mEaX7ICVqPMu9aRQgwhhB8pCIY8rYz1ZiloyIwO4UKeE6bqt-TvmUSP189DS9vb0YG/s1600/20160914-IndianaBicentennialTorchRelay-48.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="127" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnPZNm1fpHewyf-91INMioPmL-RpqZE01PQzyOe_OVl42aPj67ooKZYhbR0YmklywRuvJ5pgXOA1mEaX7ICVqPMu9aRQgwhhB8pCIY8rYz1ZiloyIwO4UKeE6bqt-TvmUSP189DS9vb0YG/s200/20160914-IndianaBicentennialTorchRelay-48.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of the torchbearers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Another interesting detail is that my phone pinged all. night. long. People posted comments, pictures, and videos for a full day. I would put down my phone and pick it up two minutes later to find 45 notifications. It was even bigger than a facebook birthday, and that's saying something! :-) To me, all that attention on the Indiana Bicentennial Torch Relay proved that people recognized how special the event was for our community. It made me swell with even more pride for Lawrence County, and it capped off a day that I will always remember as one of my best.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I was a torchbearer!</span><br />
<br />
<b>More Pics</b><br />
Thanks to Mom, Ed, Hope, Hilary, Noelle, Jerry, Christi, the Bicentennial Commision, WBIW, and tons of others for the pics and vids!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxVjyFsh1FgLe0BPeD-y_L1NsOdG3eWalofm366XOImp6G-flr6lvrQv2LmGdF_v7r7pF7r1beG9MXyjN7mF7S6hrYEeuRh_a03kt5qBZv4bM0sLy3n7XpEom7LGzwv64Vrx4JDBGEQQHw/s1600/20160914-IndianaBicentennialTorchRelay-32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxVjyFsh1FgLe0BPeD-y_L1NsOdG3eWalofm366XOImp6G-flr6lvrQv2LmGdF_v7r7pF7r1beG9MXyjN7mF7S6hrYEeuRh_a03kt5qBZv4bM0sLy3n7XpEom7LGzwv64Vrx4JDBGEQQHw/s320/20160914-IndianaBicentennialTorchRelay-32.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Running the torch relay</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiErQt7LS-4fINOpNwyzSSa7smqimt1UoLX2xOMIFOY300Jb8wGgcRhg9bin2NFpTPHfiQyBxeMvxcIikeYshpTeqb7CEKcb-ggdx8idQYoSsJ0eAVBe4hp7IRAFx-a2Tj5PZLroPeAzdxJ/s1600/20160914-IndianaBicentennialTorchRelay-Christy-04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="161" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiErQt7LS-4fINOpNwyzSSa7smqimt1UoLX2xOMIFOY300Jb8wGgcRhg9bin2NFpTPHfiQyBxeMvxcIikeYshpTeqb7CEKcb-ggdx8idQYoSsJ0eAVBe4hp7IRAFx-a2Tj5PZLroPeAzdxJ/s320/20160914-IndianaBicentennialTorchRelay-Christy-04.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Media car taping</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy5BMrBgIjS5pLED-PzI0gsbv5HbwaIK2hyFzVXt4cN5qgWarRwsIhRDr6Vnu1YnzCvrme5lGQHgCl86eqXC4VmJpQNnwtYL0D1SmupLKhF39rYyKePnf9EFjXsPPT2Y0KBFRQykp0FqjS/s1600/20160914-IndianaBicentennialTorchRelay-Hilary-07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy5BMrBgIjS5pLED-PzI0gsbv5HbwaIK2hyFzVXt4cN5qgWarRwsIhRDr6Vnu1YnzCvrme5lGQHgCl86eqXC4VmJpQNnwtYL0D1SmupLKhF39rYyKePnf9EFjXsPPT2Y0KBFRQykp0FqjS/s320/20160914-IndianaBicentennialTorchRelay-Hilary-07.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More running</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4_0WDLwlXwNZUajph9pgsTsLpEg5gFL83mlNwYI9sE02Bde_X5mDGf9FlBBQlnX2tLequCJcnYP5Zk1vYx6ShV5olYWd-tYmCIwZ2y5W_GjDl-catLYkNPrstMgPtHSW-aT70zK_6SRHE/s1600/20160914-IndianaBicentennialTorchRelay-Jerry-08.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4_0WDLwlXwNZUajph9pgsTsLpEg5gFL83mlNwYI9sE02Bde_X5mDGf9FlBBQlnX2tLequCJcnYP5Zk1vYx6ShV5olYWd-tYmCIwZ2y5W_GjDl-catLYkNPrstMgPtHSW-aT70zK_6SRHE/s320/20160914-IndianaBicentennialTorchRelay-Jerry-08.png" width="278" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Even more running</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_TM7E8mSKDS3qUoxznLSfvux_c3xPAyw0s5mIVEGYHKlxopK8s_rxmk86iXFxKbrcsF_j-BvtjMGRA2tATmeFolAGWmA6GI_MdTXPazLXQ0OVyiXNFfiKH15LPhMZsfHc_PjnqHXRho4o/s1600/20160914-IndianaBicentennialTorchRelay-Professional-04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_TM7E8mSKDS3qUoxznLSfvux_c3xPAyw0s5mIVEGYHKlxopK8s_rxmk86iXFxKbrcsF_j-BvtjMGRA2tATmeFolAGWmA6GI_MdTXPazLXQ0OVyiXNFfiKH15LPhMZsfHc_PjnqHXRho4o/s320/20160914-IndianaBicentennialTorchRelay-Professional-04.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Jimmy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ6dsRlnZDZDqpfxmUR0PsN-nGUQiZRUTSQL8Sqgykm6imVawZHoNykGBX5DTkvUtLurmXx-72qa3gfZbIrynOJwVZ4X0V_UNmSIhFESoIww2vI8kF3Pzy8q80DmO_F1V_kgg4N_1M_DdL/s1600/20160914-IndianaBicentennialTorchRelay-MaryBeth-01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ6dsRlnZDZDqpfxmUR0PsN-nGUQiZRUTSQL8Sqgykm6imVawZHoNykGBX5DTkvUtLurmXx-72qa3gfZbIrynOJwVZ4X0V_UNmSIhFESoIww2vI8kF3Pzy8q80DmO_F1V_kgg4N_1M_DdL/s320/20160914-IndianaBicentennialTorchRelay-MaryBeth-01.jpg" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mom with a sign</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivP3w5UCpOKWGkhAsTI3Z1x_IIEUiDhz-X_3LCrCOMoGeDClAiajwmH6z8lsutWb5rvvgNNyRPwQrcDH56SaZ1s6TA0KwlwYlpWTvmv30v1RX9XsPpcDcbpUIPMjtG3H9NMvpcXJ6USGbK/s1600/20160914-IndianaBicentennialTorchRelay-Commission.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivP3w5UCpOKWGkhAsTI3Z1x_IIEUiDhz-X_3LCrCOMoGeDClAiajwmH6z8lsutWb5rvvgNNyRPwQrcDH56SaZ1s6TA0KwlwYlpWTvmv30v1RX9XsPpcDcbpUIPMjtG3H9NMvpcXJ6USGbK/s320/20160914-IndianaBicentennialTorchRelay-Commission.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mom and Dad in a photo by the IN Bicentennial Commission</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivdkIG_sw_jUhmNCu1AmWzNbARbvx78EYNCC4Q0S-qPegwa6DYF3jsH1G7xt4ujoTdj-CaTFei8TDwCMI9UJgp8kKgJySeO31uNPU_3CzwSC7Ihv48h3Wg1gjAQJxZKWLgnCXZbSF0b_AS/s1600/20160914-IndianaBicentennialTorchRelay-Professional-03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivdkIG_sw_jUhmNCu1AmWzNbARbvx78EYNCC4Q0S-qPegwa6DYF3jsH1G7xt4ujoTdj-CaTFei8TDwCMI9UJgp8kKgJySeO31uNPU_3CzwSC7Ihv48h3Wg1gjAQJxZKWLgnCXZbSF0b_AS/s320/20160914-IndianaBicentennialTorchRelay-Professional-03.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">MaeBe in a photo by the IN Bicentennial Commission</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
“To me, Indiana’s Bicentennial Torch Relay is the perfect symbol of community fondness and involvement across generations. It highlights the connections between our history of characters who made Bedford better, the folks who are doing more good works today, and the young people who will be Bedford’s hard workers of the future. My love of and pride in Bedford, Indiana, and Lawrence County runs deeply. To be named a torchbearer touches me deeply, as well.” —my quote in the <i>Times-Mail</i> on September 8, 2016, six days before the relay came through Lawrence County.</div>
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<b>THANK YOU</b> to Mom, Dad, Jeremy, Angie, and Mr. S. for the nominations, and to Marla Jones for the awesome organization of the Lawrence County portion of the relay.</div>
Johttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635877192243288425noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5754577446004131293.post-82946558614814442802016-09-10T05:10:00.000-07:002016-09-10T07:08:48.194-07:00Less Is MoreI'm going to bookend this blog post with the happy news, and sandwich the unpleasant news in the middle.<br />
<br />
<b>Yay for 6K</b><br />
I hit 6,000 lifetime miles on my long run this morning. The achievement came at Light #52 on Electric Avenue. Most of my runner friends I know are well beyond 6,000—I mean, Larry Moffat has more than 10 times that amount—but I'm still kind of excited. Round numbers are fun.<br />
<br />
<b>Abort! Abort!</b><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZXbdudYni9VcPzBl7ewGD5iooAhQfHm5mhkLgGozaHV4umSjEcrWzPzumjMuYGBPVEt4a7nFDxS4zZlmk1BiTr76PQ18UKGKSzeVQWOvbreUxY2Jh_-pyNyoZ_tBCyxTWC_c7JwW-vVoJ/s1600/20160910-TrainingWheel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZXbdudYni9VcPzBl7ewGD5iooAhQfHm5mhkLgGozaHV4umSjEcrWzPzumjMuYGBPVEt4a7nFDxS4zZlmk1BiTr76PQ18UKGKSzeVQWOvbreUxY2Jh_-pyNyoZ_tBCyxTWC_c7JwW-vVoJ/s200/20160910-TrainingWheel.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Training Wheel... get it? I tore<br />
two-thirds of the 18-mile tab. :-)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This morning, I was supposed to run 18 miles. I planned to do "laps" of sorts up and down Electric Avenue. I've had the sniffles, and I figured if I felt yucky, I could abort the run at almost anytime. I took it super easy, but I just felt so. so. so. tired. Just before I hit 9 miles, I thought, "This is crazy. You are doing laps so you can abort at anytime. Abort." So abort I did. I ended up with <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1350492100" target="_blank">a nice little 12 mile run</a>.<br />
<br />
Those of you who know me know I rarely cut a run short, so when I do, it means I probably needed to do so. Sure, I'm a little bummed, but I'm not mad about it. In June, I honestly couldn't run three miles without stopping to lie down and cry a little, so a non-stop 12-miler is cause for celebration, even if it was a slow, aborted 18.<br />
<br />
<b>Big Running Decision</b><br />
I promise I'm not writing a blog post solely to inform the Interwebs about the termination of a long run. I've (almost) made a big running decision, and I feel like I need to write it down to make it real, and to organize it better in my mind.<br />
<br />
I am 90% sure I'm going to drop to the Half at <a href="http://monumentalmarathon.com/" target="_blank">Monumental</a> this year.<br />
<br />
Writing that statement makes me feel sad, even though it shouldn't. I know a half marathon is an important event that takes focused training; but when you'd planned for twice that, it seems like a cop out.<br />
<br />
This has nothing to do with me hurting anywhere. With the exception of some gnarly toe blisters, my legs are good to go. Here is why I've 90% come to this conclusion:<br />
<br />
<b>Every run is an effort.</b> This time last year, I was running <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/902104906" target="_blank">marathon pace 18s</a> and <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/930017573" target="_blank">progression 20s</a> like no big deal. I'm running about a minute-per-mile slower this year, but even then everything feels more laborious. I had a <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2016/07/of-training-tough-times-and-torch.html" target="_blank">rough spring and summer</a>. Maybe that's why, but it doesn't really matter why. I just constantly feel like I'm overdoing it.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNB5-CsdrN-tddd20SYEKIrHnzfQz-wQ6OkRTOrhZwWN-xPxjMCxWDc5AcwwQIhxLDokT3b41b4mHOGxnAtZH7ZUOUxBdiGbLPzUlGfvG9lMuE4GYEa0iTOIWfl15vN0FLFiaLdxGh0but/s1600/20160806-MorningRun-12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNB5-CsdrN-tddd20SYEKIrHnzfQz-wQ6OkRTOrhZwWN-xPxjMCxWDc5AcwwQIhxLDokT3b41b4mHOGxnAtZH7ZUOUxBdiGbLPzUlGfvG9lMuE4GYEa0iTOIWfl15vN0FLFiaLdxGh0but/s200/20160806-MorningRun-12.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pretty sunrise on an August long run</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>I'm not having much fun.</b> I always end up picking the full over the half because, "I LOVE marathon training!" Yeah, well, I don't this time. I mean, I love to run, but I'm not looking forward to the runs—especially the long runs—like I usually do.<br />
<br />
<b>The thought of running 26 miles is soul crushing.</b> I promise I'm not being histrionic. Soul. Crushing. Last year, I was tenacious for those miles on that course. I couldn't wait. This year, I'm dreading it.<br />
<br />
<b>The thought of dropping to the half relaxes me and makes me happy. </b>I'd still get the whole Monumental-weekend experience without taxing myself to the limit, in the race or in training. Running could be all fun again. I would look forward to the race.<br />
<br />
<b>It would make my family happy.</b> They worry about the distance. This way, they wouldn't have to.<br />
<br />
<b>I won't have to cancel all November running.</b> My doctors get all bent out of shape about marathons and make me do zero running for two to three weeks after a marathon. I would take time off after the half, of course, but I wouldn't have to drag my sore body around for days, wondering how close I was to some devastating injury and when I would be able to run a little again.<br />
<br />
I am honestly so thankful to be able to run AT ALL—really—that I can't be mad about dropping to the half. I know "injured and devastated." This is not that feeling. I can run. I am happy!<br />
<br />
However, I have worries, mostly about what people will think. What will they think when I've dropped to the half? What will they think when I run it slowly? What will they think when I run my slowest <strike>Bedford Half Marathon</strike> Limestone Capital Half Marathon ever? What will they think when I don't reach my annual mileage goal? What will they think when I haven't run all the mileage on the tabs on my cute little training wheel?<br />
<br />
Turns out they don't care, Jo.<br />
<br />
I want to have fun running again. That means less distance, slower paces, and shorter races. Fine. Let's do it.<br />
<br />
<b>The 10%</b><br />
The only thing keeping me from making this decision is the weather. If this godforsaken heat and humidity end, and I am suddenly feeling like rainbows and lollipops, I can reassess then. At this point, writing this blog has convinced me that I'm dropping to the half.<br />
<br />
It's also convinced me that maybe this news isn't so unpleasant after all. Maybe it's the best goshdarn news I've had in awhile.<br />
<br />
<b>The Torch</b><br />
...except for the <a href="http://www.in.gov/ibc/torchrelay/" target="_blank">Indiana Bicentennial Torch Relay</a>, because that awesomeness is happening on Wednesday. I was featured <a href="http://www.tmnews.com/news/local/torchbearer-profile-joanna-cobb/article_21186b56-587e-5b95-8800-3ea068bda2f7.html" target="_blank">in a cool article</a> by Bob Bridge of the <i>Times-Mail</i> on Thursday, and my family, friends, and I are FIRED RIGHT UP to be part of this historical event next week. I even get to sing downtown with Ed at the celebration.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Life is good, and it's better when you're having fun. :-)<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz4O4H3F-NpAr2fDIVRoxuSMr9FxFVaX_7siDKHxCGgdGpzLpHxtpwsXZBYEKB13EjRMzeeqUryL7w5xzXsTtOjN_IMBri4KrJ4YFYeShjSM0K2c5fD8KLEJV-xx5g3z708AwFzEHMe3Uq/s1600/20160903-TheClaude-31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz4O4H3F-NpAr2fDIVRoxuSMr9FxFVaX_7siDKHxCGgdGpzLpHxtpwsXZBYEKB13EjRMzeeqUryL7w5xzXsTtOjN_IMBri4KrJ4YFYeShjSM0K2c5fD8KLEJV-xx5g3z708AwFzEHMe3Uq/s320/20160903-TheClaude-31.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Having fun at the Claude on 9.3.2016</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Johttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635877192243288425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5754577446004131293.post-61083468777025333022016-07-19T15:05:00.000-07:002016-07-19T15:05:07.983-07:00Of Training, Tough Times, and a Torch<div>
<b>The Training</b></div>
'Tis the season... Monumental Training! I'm going to start my official training this Saturday which will give me 15 weeks to train for the <a href="http://www.monumentalmarathon.com/" target="_blank">Indianapolis Monumental Marathon</a>. Typical programs are 16 weeks, and last year I trained for 19 weeks. However, in an effort to hit my training sweet spot, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/wendy.miller.37819959" target="_blank">Wendy</a> and I are going to try the shorter program this year. Because I peaked 3-4 weeks before the marathon last year, a 15-week design seems like a good plan.<div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGbwWfu-v5VUZPCb8aQS4vieO8fWr7eFqGXqtgQB7NTYr3GOzLMiYvYprYj2OSlYtSHhc1ALHlwKOAXULbz6T0gLoDxE4M1DihyphenhyphenQAaYbvOppw42mMQ1r-LSzYu46xi8iMg-_AoEGLe6swK/s1600/20160719-TrainingWheel-03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGbwWfu-v5VUZPCb8aQS4vieO8fWr7eFqGXqtgQB7NTYr3GOzLMiYvYprYj2OSlYtSHhc1ALHlwKOAXULbz6T0gLoDxE4M1DihyphenhyphenQAaYbvOppw42mMQ1r-LSzYu46xi8iMg-_AoEGLe6swK/s320/20160719-TrainingWheel-03.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2016 IMM "Training Wheel"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Here is my 2016 IMM Training Wheel. I dressed up the center this year with IMM's new logo and a pic Wendy took during the 2015 marathon. Long runs are blue, maintenance runs are red, and the big day is yellow. Can't wait to start tearin' tabs!</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
At the present, I don't have a time goal. My PR, set at IMM 2015, is 4:09:50. Those familiar with my running know that it's my heart's desire to break 4:00, but this may not be the year to attack that particular goal, and that's OK. I honestly will be happy just to be a part of it.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>The Tough Times</b></div>
<div>
"Suck it up and go for that goal!" says you. Believe me, I am right there with you, and time will tell if a tough time goal is smart for Fall JoAnna Cobb. It isn't for Summer Jo Cobb, nor was it optimal for Spring Jo Cobb, because "tough time" has meant something completely different in the last few months.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEievvquEiL02mW0tnFiHnyZsEZc7YfIaR8cRX9hWnHPh4Jqmx2bwSgEGvaKWvdCp8HsX2mYtDxcVp7BMvZsrsjfrCWoEhafFLiYVfOT3zMM8xLEBPdT32YGNdKd59DuEcOyru0Ul-TRl-yF/s1600/20160511-Acupuncture-02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEievvquEiL02mW0tnFiHnyZsEZc7YfIaR8cRX9hWnHPh4Jqmx2bwSgEGvaKWvdCp8HsX2mYtDxcVp7BMvZsrsjfrCWoEhafFLiYVfOT3zMM8xLEBPdT32YGNdKd59DuEcOyru0Ul-TRl-yF/s200/20160511-Acupuncture-02.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Acupuncture. Yeah.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
The running woes began in March when Wendy learned she had a stress fracture in her foot. That very same day, I felt a twinge in my hamstring. The twinge turned into a full hamstring/quad atrocity (not using the word "injury"), that plagued me for two months. Only diagnosed as "really bad tendinitis with a muscle strain," I sought chiropractic alignment, acupuncture, myofascial release, Graston, dry needling, and general physical therapy. Eventually, it got better, but boy, was it frustrating.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
During this same time, I had a devastating problem with my hair, was misdiagnosed with another femoral fracture and on crutches for 15 hours, fought with my health insurance company over <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10210217730508138" target="_blank">tens of thousands of dollars</a> they refused to pay for Remicade treatments in spite of having a pre-cert, and had two upper respiratory infections and a skin infection due to said Remicade. Are those trials little things relative to true big problems? Yes, but they made for a pretty tough time.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In mid-May, while most of those life hiccups were beginning to resolve, I suddenly couldn't run anymore. I know that sounds histrionic, but it's true. Ask Wendy. Typically down for a 10-mile run any day of the week, I couldn't get 0.5 miles at a pace one to two minutes slower than usual without taking a break. A sit down break, preferably. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Obviously, I sought medical advice. The difficulties may have ensued as a result of my spring stress, or maybe they didn't. No matter. Some changes in medicines seem to have helped for now, and I'm slowly building back to my usual mileage and paces while still in communication with my doctors. If there is a silver lining here, it's that I've learned to appreciate the trouble-free times on a new level.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>The Torch</b></div>
<div>
I'm clearly feeling pretty confident about the direction my health is taking or I wouldn't have decided to train for a marathon. I'm very thankful to be able to be in a position where I would even consider running 26.2 miles a prospect, because—believe me—it did not seem possible even two shorts weeks ago.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhsYxYB0d1N-68jT0_qRdGQEYLQYvOsqZmP2ekI_Bz9WeNNrWcTxXs_q_XX6M2E67wZ1ipsL-8GWRs7FfuDMQ9CUdiEEbi00vHEBf-fRYu9denkLPFCzvM8CoffbldPkhg_9xwbw0ZaLZH/s1600/TorchRealy_logo_FINAL-%252800000002%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhsYxYB0d1N-68jT0_qRdGQEYLQYvOsqZmP2ekI_Bz9WeNNrWcTxXs_q_XX6M2E67wZ1ipsL-8GWRs7FfuDMQ9CUdiEEbi00vHEBf-fRYu9denkLPFCzvM8CoffbldPkhg_9xwbw0ZaLZH/s1600/TorchRealy_logo_FINAL-%252800000002%2529.png" /></a></div>
<div>
However, marathon training is not my only exciting news. The year 2016 is <a href="http://www.in.gov/ibc/" target="_blank">Indiana's Bicentennial</a> year. One of the many exciting projects associated with the 200-year milestone is the <a href="http://www.in.gov/ibc/torchrelay/" target="_blank">Indiana Bicentennial Torch Relay</a>. I have been named a Torch Bearer for Lawrence County. The right terms for my feelings elude me. Honored? Grateful? Thrilled? All that, for sure, but there's something more. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
You all know how much I dig Bedford and its history and how proud I am to be a part of this great little city. Representing Lawrence County on September 14 in the Torch Relay combines my love of my home and the people who live here with my love of running, and it makes me absolutely light up with happiness to know I get to be a part of it in this way.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Here's to a great late summer and early fall! </div>
Johttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635877192243288425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5754577446004131293.post-52432837740405599832015-12-31T06:07:00.000-08:002015-12-31T08:47:23.233-08:00Running The Numbers - 2015I am obsessed with both math and running. I keep tons of data on my training and racing. Here are a lot more numerical details than you probably want about my running in 2015. :-)<br>
<br>
<b>Miles Run</b>: 1,154.00<br>
<b>Increase Over Previous Annual Mileage High</b>: 1,111.26 mi., 3.8% increase<br>
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<b>Runs</b>: 165<br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNGP5tKD7fr_Qw0NWCOEc1_ACcloY8ZnF-brCfsifPVrYq8XSORyIxbh1G2bSmZstLVVUBP97JcqUgt9BJKRCrDhQmVf2EVuibjlbmeOStmdKRAGOggghyS8ueQjbrOnueZE7SeVI7ROlF/s1600/20150502-MiniMarathon-111.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNGP5tKD7fr_Qw0NWCOEc1_ACcloY8ZnF-brCfsifPVrYq8XSORyIxbh1G2bSmZstLVVUBP97JcqUgt9BJKRCrDhQmVf2EVuibjlbmeOStmdKRAGOggghyS8ueQjbrOnueZE7SeVI7ROlF/s200/20150502-MiniMarathon-111.png" width="200"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finishing the Mini on May 2</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Hours Run</b>: 184.38<br>
<b>Average Run Distance</b>: 6.99 mi.<br>
<b>Average Run Pace</b>: 9:35.09<br>
<b>Average Run Duration</b>: 1:07:02.1<div><b>Average Temperature During Runs</b>: 57.08°F<br>
<b>Miles Walked</b>: 418.75 (Thanks, MaeBe.)<br>
<b>Walks</b>: 178<br>
<b>Average Walk Distance</b>: 2.35<br>
<b>Gym Hours</b>: 39, 9 at Anytime and 30 at Novus<br>
<b>Miles On Elliptical</b>: 47.21</div><div><b>Miles On Bike</b>: 67.1<br>
<b>Miles On Scooter</b>: 15.3<br>
<b>Most Consecutive Laps Run On Track</b>: 80 laps of 0.25 mi.<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<b>Races Run</b>: 12<br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJV9fGWIc2J0H_2KKKAOSLqICTZIZK7WY_kG8_mU_vvq9wIvR9r6kIFicYp6MvRdWcsLeFESnBI8fglWO9bGYMS-ze9z4J1m4WbR7RHez7JTeZeT1WQvvj1e3wObaMmNqKDDsF7J36TjKA/s1600/20150711-TheViewTrailHalf-16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJV9fGWIc2J0H_2KKKAOSLqICTZIZK7WY_kG8_mU_vvq9wIvR9r6kIFicYp6MvRdWcsLeFESnBI8fglWO9bGYMS-ze9z4J1m4WbR7RHez7JTeZeT1WQvvj1e3wObaMmNqKDDsF7J36TjKA/s200/20150711-TheViewTrailHalf-16.jpg" width="200"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The View Trail Half on July 11</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>PRs Set</b>: 2 (<a href="https://connect.garmin.com/activity/923740965" target="_blank">Half Marathon</a>, <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/activity/950264765" target="_blank">Marathon</a>)<br>
<b>Falls</b>: 0<br>
<b>Injuries</b>: 0<br>
<b>Toenails Lost</b>: 4.5<br>
<b>Surgeries</b>: 0<br>
<b>Pairs of Shoes Retired</b>: 3<br>
<b>Pairs of Shoes Purchased</b>: 5<br>
<b>States Where I Ran</b>: 3, Indiana,Wisconsin, and Kentucky<br>
<b>Longest Run</b>: 26.28 mi., <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/activity/950264765" target="_blank">November 7</a><br>
<b>Shortest Run</b>: 1.00 mi., several runs to and from Novus<br>
<b>Week With Most Running</b>: September 6-12, 43.72 mi.<br>
<b>Month With Most Running</b>: August, 154.89 mi.<br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZT1usSKBbIuU_BcNZ3uXMHqUajx2aaBi83_RxUhlJtEztVbAw5wB0_c085wfTmmqR_2P3r8y0VvaeHVFSELMv5vzqGsWoJnuAz8I2Na5D7F1B3tDgG3fTaZJT2V3tJ2V0o7vV6o9UvChg/s1600/20151107-MonumentalMarathon-067.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZT1usSKBbIuU_BcNZ3uXMHqUajx2aaBi83_RxUhlJtEztVbAw5wB0_c085wfTmmqR_2P3r8y0VvaeHVFSELMv5vzqGsWoJnuAz8I2Na5D7F1B3tDgG3fTaZJT2V3tJ2V0o7vV6o9UvChg/s200/20151107-MonumentalMarathon-067.jpg" width="125"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After IMM on Nov. 7</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Month With Least Running</b>: January, 0.00 mi.<br>
<b>Favorite Run (Tie)</b>: <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/activity/763217579" target="_blank">May 2</a>, 13.24 mi.; <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/activity/797546201" target="_blank">June 7</a>, 7.55 mi.; <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/activity/830131893" target="_blank">July 11</a>, 12.68 mi.; <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/activity/873677343" target="_blank">August 22</a>, 20.11 mi.; <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/activity/902104906" target="_blank">September 18</a>, 18.11 mi.; <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/activity/923740965" target="_blank">October 10</a>, 13.19 mi.; <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/activity/930017573" target="_blank">October 17</a>, 20.04 mi.; <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/activity/950264765" target="_blank">November 7</a>, 26.28 mi.; <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/activity/992536353" target="_blank">December 26</a>, 8.14 mi. (It's hard to pick favorites!)<br>
<b>Least Favorite Run</b>: <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/activity/837828136" target="_blank">July 18</a>, 5.61 mi. (It was the worst run OF MY LIFE, and I'll tell you all about it if you want to sit and listen for several minutes.)<br>
<b>Percentage of Goals Reached</b>: 100% (5/5, see below)<br>
<b>Weight Range in Pounds</b>: 6.6<br>
<b>Total Lifetime Mileage</b>: 5,218.00<br>
<b>Percent of Lifetime Mileage Run in 2015</b>: 22.12%<br>
<br>
<b><u>Mileage By The Month</u></b><br>
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<b>January</b>: 0.00<br>
<b>February</b>: 34.57<br>
<b>March</b>: 100.16<br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUqL9Nt_0tyo6VP208HnkqGP5kwsjsjCWGtszh81XmzDykZjweBs3-mgi-wahS_zBlWatH74w70DqT_HZQXkICDCsI6iAJGtT4GsyfToiQZk5P34ZM758G1dHlkrbEXSU3SkDqW6TasL5k/s1600/20151230-TrailRun-20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUqL9Nt_0tyo6VP208HnkqGP5kwsjsjCWGtszh81XmzDykZjweBs3-mgi-wahS_zBlWatH74w70DqT_HZQXkICDCsI6iAJGtT4GsyfToiQZk5P34ZM758G1dHlkrbEXSU3SkDqW6TasL5k/s200/20151230-TrailRun-20.jpg" width="200"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fun with Photoshop <br>(and "Barkley") on Dec. 30</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>April</b>: 111.86<br>
<b>May</b>: 94.14<br>
<b>June</b>: 102.89<br>
<b>July</b>: 136.18<br>
<b>August</b>: 154.89<br>
<b>September</b>: 140.04<br>
<b>October</b>: 137.15<br>
<b>November</b>: 43.79<br>
<b>December</b>: 98.33<br>
<br>
<b><u>Goals</u></b><br>
<div class="UFICommentContent" data-reactid=".1d.1:3:1:$comment391965017605989_1973606:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0">
<b>Jo's 2015 Fitness Goals: </b><br>
<b>1. Remain injury-free</b><br>
Succeeded! :D<br>
<b>2. Enjoy lots of running with lots of friends</b><br>
Succeeded.<br>
<b>3. Work on the committee to stage the BMS 5K</b><br>
Succeeded, and beat the boss. Again.<br>
<b>4. Encourage another person or people to become more focused on fitness</b><br>
Succeeded.</div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".1d.1:3:1:$comment391965017605989_1973606:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.0:$comment-body"><span data-reactid=".1d.1:3:1:$comment391965017605989_1973606:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.0:$comment-body.0.$end:0:$20:0"><b>5. Build more muscle</b></span></span><span data-reactid=".1d.1:3:1:$comment391965017605989_1973606:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.3"></span></span><br>
Succeeded. Thanks, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NovusStrengthTraining" target="_blank">Novus</a>!<br>
<br>
Thanks to everyone for the support! On to 2016!<br>
<br>
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</div>Johttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635877192243288425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5754577446004131293.post-47576217275968929632015-11-09T14:25:00.000-08:002015-11-09T19:08:08.315-08:00She's Real Fine, My 409<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Prior to the 2015 Indianapolis Monumental Marathon, I made it very clear that I was finally poised to break four hours in the marathon. I had put in the <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2015/11/2015-imm-training-punctuation.html" target="_blank">focused but fun training</a>. I was armed with a solid plan. I wasn't, however, naive. I had a set of <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2015/09/the-goals-and-goal-imm-2015.html" target="_blank">tiered goals</a>. Sub-4 was the A-Goal, PRing (breaking 4:12:53) was the B-Goal, and finishing and living to run another day was the C-Goal.<br>
<br>
Let's just say... thank goodness for B-Goals. Without it, I probably would've walked from about mile marker 20.<br>
<br>
<b>Disclaimer</b><br>
Everyone knows I loathe the disclaimer... the reason(s) people give for the sub-par job they're about to do. Know that there are a few times in this race report that I will appear to "disclaim." I'm not. I'm merely giving you the facts of the story. I truly have no excuses AT ALL. I did face some challenges, but I thought that they wouldn't (and still think they didn't), affect the attainment of my A Goal. It just wasn't my day to break 4.<br>
<br>
<b>Pre-Race</b><br>
Friday afternoon, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/cathy.k.hackney" target="_blank">Mom</a> and I drove to Indy. We checked-in to our fabulous room at the Westin, then hit the expo. I got my bib (seeded in Corral B... what?), and put a hurt on all the vendors. We visited the Colts store at Circle Center, and then met <a href="https://www.facebook.com/wendy.miller.37819959" target="_blank">Wendy</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/tim.miller.79462815" target="_blank">Tim</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/sarajanebaldwin" target="_blank">Sara Jane</a>, the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/rkleihege" target="_blank">Kleiheges</a>, and a couple of the Kleiheges' friends at Spaghetti Factory for dinner. Afterward, Mom and I played cards for an hour or so.<br>
<br>
I didn't sleep well because I couldn't stop coughing. All week long, I had been nursing an elevated temp (99°ish), stuffy nose, blistery tonsils, and general malaise. I was really worried about how it would affect my race, but I rose Saturday morning feeling the best I'd felt all week.<br>
<br>
<b>The First 15 Miles</b><br>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO1HGIg0qmwToljf8mKf8Pbg8__cjkvUTqXWmclsPLa_1zlXj4-sry5qIGlFyBW1MsKeornLMGdEbv40F3Ffod5EzDeC4sJaKxHTnwiIESMXEmtmcUuLwapJeksT7cvsSWmctEhhEiTIWd/s1600/20151107-MonumentalMarathon-039.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO1HGIg0qmwToljf8mKf8Pbg8__cjkvUTqXWmclsPLa_1zlXj4-sry5qIGlFyBW1MsKeornLMGdEbv40F3Ffod5EzDeC4sJaKxHTnwiIESMXEmtmcUuLwapJeksT7cvsSWmctEhhEiTIWd/s200/20151107-MonumentalMarathon-039.jpg" width="200"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seeing Wendy on mile 7</td></tr>
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My plan for the race was to run the first 18 miles or so in the 9:00-9:10 range, then accelerate if I felt I could. Wendy said, "Nothing that begins with an 8 until 18!" My watch clicked my first mile at 8:55, but I think that was wrong. The first four miles or so are filled with tunnels and overpasses. I hit posted mile marker 1 at 9:05. I beeped 9-flat right at posted Mile Marker 2. You can see the rest of the splits <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/activity/950264765" target="_blank">here</a>. With the exception of mile 13, I was only a little fast.<br>
<br>
I will admit that the 9:00ish pace felt a little harder than it should've. Not hard, mind you, just not as easy as usual. I've been having some post-tib trouble in both legs (low on the left, in the middle on the right), so I surmised dealing with that pain might've been the culprit. However, I only felt my post-tibs on miles 3-6.<br>
<br>
Would it have been smarter to run those miles all 5-10 seconds slower? Probably. Did being a wee bit fast cause what happened later? I think not, but who knows?<br>
<br>
<b>The Last 11.2 Miles</b><br>
Something happened at mile marker 15. All of the sudden, I felt weak. I had an extra GU just in case, so I took it. Then I took an orange slice from a spectator. I think those calories helped, but only marginally. You can see the heart rate spike <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/activity/950264765" target="_blank">in my data</a> right at 15mi. I held my pace for 15 and 16 and then allowed myself to slow a bit on mile 17's Butler "hills." On mile 18, I had serious concerns about staying conscious. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ken.hackney" target="_blank">Dad</a> always tells me to listen to my body, so I did. I took a walk break.<br>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-gHH1PzpDfCKNgwkWp3EspSuHT-wenz9qv_hrfuzrmC3AkjP9YPgecBCBFATRXAWpjDXzNXufRfjO7UA_oEH8dSyhPSoLtJYzIeOdqp7gxmxnQenWEFQfXVGZJW5abGXzN3D69CO7HBXH/s1600/20151107-MonumentalMarathon-088.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-gHH1PzpDfCKNgwkWp3EspSuHT-wenz9qv_hrfuzrmC3AkjP9YPgecBCBFATRXAWpjDXzNXufRfjO7UA_oEH8dSyhPSoLtJYzIeOdqp7gxmxnQenWEFQfXVGZJW5abGXzN3D69CO7HBXH/s200/20151107-MonumentalMarathon-088.jpg" width="132"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 19</td></tr>
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<br>
You might think I felt completely defeated at this point. I didn't. I just felt like I was regrouping, the way Wendy told me to do if necessary, and getting back on track. It worked. I started running again, but immediately started getting woozy. I walked for one minute then got back to it.<br>
<br>
I was good to go for a mile or so, then right before mile marker 20, I had to walk again. This break was longer, and I called <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ed.cobb.16" target="_blank">Ed</a> and my Dad, mostly just to hear their voices. Wendy met me around 21.5mi on her bike, and I walked/ran from there, and felt A LOT less lonely. It was mostly running, but I did take frequent little walk breaks. You can see it all in <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/activity/950264765" target="_blank">the data</a>.<br>
<br>
I was mindful of my B-goal (under 4:12:53) the whole time, so I kept an eye on my watch to make sure I was keeping an average pace that would get me to the finish in time. When I was making the last turn, Wendy reminded me to savor the finish. I crossed the line in 4:09:50.<br>
<br>
<b>What Happened?</b><br>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1YTUPkKOfWNrSJVsaGyUESU8efmDUymr9v7Cxj5USRMbOjHzf2FLfhawxT0i3Rvlkv1j1nGs1Y6Y_DESgWyr7Xtbl4ulwPv5VRkymiezKzklaUA_j6UHmRUIR8xEfEsT8ITp29UW6oYvE/s1600/20151107-MonumentalMarathon-094a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1YTUPkKOfWNrSJVsaGyUESU8efmDUymr9v7Cxj5USRMbOjHzf2FLfhawxT0i3Rvlkv1j1nGs1Y6Y_DESgWyr7Xtbl4ulwPv5VRkymiezKzklaUA_j6UHmRUIR8xEfEsT8ITp29UW6oYvE/s200/20151107-MonumentalMarathon-094a.jpg" width="125"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><3</td></tr>
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Why did I get so weak and woozy a mere 15 miles into the race? Was it because of my ankles? No, they didn't hurt once in the last 70% of the race. Was it because I have Crohn's disease? No, I had zero tummy issues, and that had been a big concern of mine in the weeks leading up to the race. Is it because I was sick the week of the race? I doubt it. It might've made me somewhat fatigued, but I think I could break four hours being a little tired. Was it because I was undertrained? Uh, no way. Was it because I can't handle pain? No, have we met? Was it because I was a bit fast the first half? I also doubt that. We're talking about <i>seconds</i>.<br>
<br>
My best guess is that I peaked too soon in my training. I was running my very best about three or four weeks prior to the race. Maybe my body was more fatigued than I thought. I don't know.<br>
<br>
<b>Not Mad About It!</b><br>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxVB_wHIgaWLMyG35-_idahXEZSPdmvxnAeQM4H0C4qc-nEMvJuCnhwIwJKHmXwBXmF0zMoKeD9Ot-FI12etQA9bpUjgJu6CPRbVfM5XNkTGgSIcxzwjSsQIUc1MaZ4FK-SgU5oP55IfV-/s1600/20151107-MonumentalMarathon-106.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxVB_wHIgaWLMyG35-_idahXEZSPdmvxnAeQM4H0C4qc-nEMvJuCnhwIwJKHmXwBXmF0zMoKeD9Ot-FI12etQA9bpUjgJu6CPRbVfM5XNkTGgSIcxzwjSsQIUc1MaZ4FK-SgU5oP55IfV-/s200/20151107-MonumentalMarathon-106.jpg" width="121"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">PR Finish!</td></tr>
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You might think I am disappointed that I didn't meet my big sub-4 goal, but I'm not. You guys: I RAN MY FASTEST MARATHON EVER. That 4:09 is super sweet to me! I had fun doing it! I LOVED my training! It's a win! I was on cloud (four-oh) nine ALL DAY. I still am!<br>
<br>
I mean, <i>of course</i> I'm taking lessons from not meeting my A-goal. I want to work with Wendy to tweak a training schedule. I want to practice more pacing. I want to learn more about better fueling. I want to get stronger at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NovusStrengthTraining" target="_blank">Novus</a>.<br>
<br>
Because you had better believe I'm going for the sub-4 goal again.<br>
<br>
<b>The Best Part</b><br>
Absolutely the best part of the race was seeing friends and family. I saw people I knew all over the place! Here are a few examples.<br>
<br>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHesUvTwMQqn-ZMPkJNJEvOXcfrJkcTsZP8xoGe1LrOaMKbTfuArNGSN6CGkYcMNjJSa-yvRh7BmpAfmbE5k-wMmFlVUFZCJ8tLqa64plY7AebISlmryo2KZUnjj1M5PFKy6WF4NrzgqdK/s1600/20151107-MonumentalMarathon-041.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHesUvTwMQqn-ZMPkJNJEvOXcfrJkcTsZP8xoGe1LrOaMKbTfuArNGSN6CGkYcMNjJSa-yvRh7BmpAfmbE5k-wMmFlVUFZCJ8tLqa64plY7AebISlmryo2KZUnjj1M5PFKy6WF4NrzgqdK/s200/20151107-MonumentalMarathon-041.jpg" width="151"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More cowbell, Mom!</td></tr>
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/joe.ingalls.908" target="_blank">Joe Ingalls</a>: I saw Ed's and my friend Joe around mile 5. I can't describe what it's like to see a face you know when all you've been seeing is strangers. I yelled, "Joe!" and he yelled, "Jo!" and it was funny and surprising and uplifting and awesome. I saw him again near mile 25, and he actually came onto the course to run with me a little bit. Great feeling.<br>
<br>
Wendy: You guys know what Wendy means to me. I saw her just before mile marker 7, and it made my whole being feel electric. Later, when she knew I was struggling, she biked the course backwards to find me. She found me at about 21.5mi and biked just off the course beside me until I made the final turn. THAT is friendship.<br>
<br>
Tim Galloway: I saw Tim on the circle near mile 3, but the moment I remember best is right at the second to last turn. I felt like my body was going to explode in pain, like I could move forward no more, and Tim started SCREAMING for me. That made others around him scream for me. Which made me start running and pumping my arm. Which made other people start screaming. It was quite the scene. That moment alone probably got me under 4:10.<br>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF8QvWeo91blaJQ-WhRxHF4uah7FJx0o_LZGLufUDQ_q7a-RIMecPYr4FOcPl6Sko1sVvjDbH0N4laBWF9GZOg_5YXdgu-OPBkI7SRj1iUzhJtIlxIbNYbHGgc756b5zVTvK6z0P4OIYYt/s1600/20151107-MonumentalMarathon-067.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF8QvWeo91blaJQ-WhRxHF4uah7FJx0o_LZGLufUDQ_q7a-RIMecPYr4FOcPl6Sko1sVvjDbH0N4laBWF9GZOg_5YXdgu-OPBkI7SRj1iUzhJtIlxIbNYbHGgc756b5zVTvK6z0P4OIYYt/s200/20151107-MonumentalMarathon-067.jpg" width="145"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><3</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br>
Mom, Ed, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/jschanzel" target="_blank">Schanzel</a>: I saw them right before I crossed the start line and right before I crossed the finish line. There is no descriptive word that can explain what it's like to see your family when you are about to shut the door on extreme physical effort. It is the purest feeling of love and happiness that I can imagine. They are there. They are there for you.<br>
<br>
Thanks to all of you for supporting me in my running efforts. My goals are always more meaningful to me because of all of you.<br>
<br>
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Johttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635877192243288425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5754577446004131293.post-85564950617771796762015-11-04T14:22:00.000-08:002015-11-04T14:22:42.935-08:002015 IMM Training Punctuation<b>.</b><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgInpUUqyCjWtbQILE5YfKssLZpAN5NLOTBG0YeALU9075iBDWpjl6Ymhsn0j8crbrTEzDeror2xxKOBx4oQuwuLIXMxIq4Qd-xnTv00CpO7XhZPNdRkIdKwmqbxyDtis5Mzf4-80ovF0qB/s1600/20151104-MonumentalTrainingRun%252357-06%2528Edited%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgInpUUqyCjWtbQILE5YfKssLZpAN5NLOTBG0YeALU9075iBDWpjl6Ymhsn0j8crbrTEzDeror2xxKOBx4oQuwuLIXMxIq4Qd-xnTv00CpO7XhZPNdRkIdKwmqbxyDtis5Mzf4-80ovF0qB/s200/20151104-MonumentalTrainingRun%252357-06%2528Edited%2529.jpg" width="200" /></a>My <a href="http://www.monumentalmarathon.com/" target="_blank">Indianapolis Monumental Marathon</a> training is done. Period. Over. Much like <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2014/10/the-one.html" target="_blank">last year</a>, I hit every mark. Every run that was scheduled, I ran, to the required distance and at the required pace (if a pace goal existed). My little "training wheel" pull-tab chart has only the race tab left, much different from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10207197089950667" target="_blank">its initial appearance</a>.<br />
<br />
<b>!</b><br />
The fact that the wheel now looks like an exclamation point is not an accident. I planned it that way. IMM is going to be the big exclamation point on what's been an ambitious and storied training cycle.<br />
<br />
Another reason for the exclamation point is that I have full confidence that I can reach my "A Goal," which is to run the marathon in under four hours. (You can see <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2015/09/the-goals-and-goal-imm-2015.html" target="_blank">a summary of my A, B, and C goals here</a>.) My training, both the running component planned by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/wendy.miller.37819959" target="_blank">Wendy</a> with <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Limestone-Distance-Running-651909664892346/" target="_blank">Limestone Distance Running</a>, and the strength component planned by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NovusStrengthTraining" target="_blank">Novus Strength Training</a>, have prepared me for the task at hand. I have never felt more prepared for anything in my life.<br />
<br />
<b>,</b><br />
That is not to say that there's not a "however" to that bold confidence. I am having the nervous jitters as you might imagine. Thoughts like, "What if I fail?" creep into my mind at times. When that happens, I try to change the negative thought into positive visualization of the attainment of my goal... or I text Wendy and have her tell me that everything is fine. :-) <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2015/09/the-goals-and-goal-imm-2015.html" target="_blank">As I've previously stated</a>, even if I don't reach my goal, I will have achieved the aim of having a great time during training.<br />
<br />
<b>?</b><br />
The only question marks that exist are the variables I can't control: the weather and my health. I am reasonably sure that the weather will be in my favor, because the only conditions that spell disaster for me are heat and humidity—uncommon problems in November. (Forecast is for a start in the low 40°s. Thank goodness for the impending cold front!) Also, I could awaken Saturday with a cold or tummy trouble or general malaise or anything that would cause it to not be "my day."<br />
<br />
I've done my part. All I can do now is hope for the best and execute my race plan.<br />
<br />
My time is NOW. LET'S DO THIS!<br />
<br />
***Wendy will likely keep folks updated on my progress via facebook. Also, you can <a href="http://tracking.endresultcompany.com/2015/imm/index.php" target="_blank">click here to sign up to follow me via text</a> as I pass timing mats during the race. Start gun is at 8:00 A.M. on Saturday!Johttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635877192243288425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5754577446004131293.post-7235351955241328342015-10-06T16:17:00.000-07:002015-10-07T03:58:32.393-07:00Hello, 1995 Jo.In June 2014, my parents and I were basement-cleaning, and we found an envelope that said:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiDgNc_4fjOsNTxaRmlyhKVkLEoVmn8fIuTut7ttbVoWfqxKlwXhImSSGkWvZobmKpZ0LyS99xjUrNwLPtEXXleVGETxO_OpoLbLnCRmHaMm0ZcnifVmbRNMZ1HVCJOMHeYOhiiVvgK9Nf/s1600/20140607-Letter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="147" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiDgNc_4fjOsNTxaRmlyhKVkLEoVmn8fIuTut7ttbVoWfqxKlwXhImSSGkWvZobmKpZ0LyS99xjUrNwLPtEXXleVGETxO_OpoLbLnCRmHaMm0ZcnifVmbRNMZ1HVCJOMHeYOhiiVvgK9Nf/s200/20140607-Letter.jpg" width="200" /></a>October 1995<br />
Psychology - Per. 4 - 1st Sem.<br />
"What I Hope To Remember..."<br />
<smiley face><br />
For 2015!</blockquote>
<div>
I excitedly <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10204055613215712" target="_blank">posted it on Facebook</a> and said I couldn't wait until October 2015 to see the contents, the results of an assignment from Mr. Dennis Whitaker's Psychology class my Junior year at BNL.</div>
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Well, here it is. I opened the envelope on Sunday. Inside were two letters: one from 16-year-old me to 36-year-old me and one from my 46-year-old Mom. I'm posting about it today because Mom and I wrote our letters on October 6, 1995—exactly 20 years ago today.</div>
<div>
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<div>
<b>The Contents of the Letter to Myself, Unedited.</b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<div>
JoAnna Kai Hackney</div>
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Period 4</div>
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10-6-95</div>
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What I Hope I Remember About Being A Teenager When I Am An Adult.</div>
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I hope to remember that it is fun, but it also has down times. Because I never have really fit in with people my age, I have 2 friends much younger, and the rest much older. I have a good time with them, but lots of times I feel like everyone has their own friends their age & they have their family, and I feel left out. I want to remember how much I love my family and friends. I want to remember how I don’t have to be like everyone else my age. I don’t conform the “right” way and do my own thing without being a rebel. School is stressful, but my education is a priviledge. I often get stressed with everyone saying their work is <u>my</u> priority. I do what I love and I try to follow my dreams. I want to remember all of my plays, especially “Annie,” “Of Mice and Men,” and “Nunsense.” (up to this point) I want to remember how I lost one of my best friends by talking behind his back. I want to remember my trips to Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head Island, and the thrill of getting my license. I hope to remember my 16th Birthday with the surprise party and how hard Mom and Dad worked on it. I want to remember how much I love Mom and Dad even though we sometimes fight. I want to remember how much I love God and try to be a good Christian. I want to remember how hard I work at everything I do. I want to remember specific seasons and how songs, smells, pictures, & hair styles remind me of those times.</div>
<div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqgK-wQSuIxhtH0cnYbVCfRmSiuVZeIG9CkaT5l6iBAt6kSuCUgUhNoz6PGdufnouFo1vBrHDaHEthdsJ51vFN6SLxw4gtKHFh8koz0PkJe6ox_EDZgCx3EUilVnX67klibfdSDPO7c0gt/s1600/1990-BitsyDandee%2526Kacey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="122" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqgK-wQSuIxhtH0cnYbVCfRmSiuVZeIG9CkaT5l6iBAt6kSuCUgUhNoz6PGdufnouFo1vBrHDaHEthdsJ51vFN6SLxw4gtKHFh8koz0PkJe6ox_EDZgCx3EUilVnX67klibfdSDPO7c0gt/s200/1990-BitsyDandee%2526Kacey.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bitsy, Dandee, & Kacey</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There’s much more I want to remember, too, that hasn’t even happened yet, like graduation, Junior Miss, College, Senior Pictures, etc… I just really want my kid(s) to know that they just need to be themselves (if not illegal), even if that’s not what “everyone else” is like. Work hard, too, & trust in God. He will help you do your very best. </div>
<div>
Oh! I forgot! I also want to remember my dogs, Bitsy, Kacey, & Dandee! They are all sweet and Dandee is one of the best friends I’ve ever had.</div>
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<b>2015 Jo's Response</b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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Hello, 1995 Jo. </div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht1uEAb2gFXM5ZA1MRFbBrgQyaQ7tYE6sVD13GUBTF6lV5G5_-FtacDqWkZ6sQysiF2gKOLC0qBwpUEVbrPMeRded0trtBK3JbDWL7FlBXrdeicI2wtZomlGKyXHweAiEShAkPwsBguip8/s1600/19960606-Jo%2527sSeniorPicturesAtHudson%2527s-20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht1uEAb2gFXM5ZA1MRFbBrgQyaQ7tYE6sVD13GUBTF6lV5G5_-FtacDqWkZ6sQysiF2gKOLC0qBwpUEVbrPMeRded0trtBK3JbDWL7FlBXrdeicI2wtZomlGKyXHweAiEShAkPwsBguip8/s200/19960606-Jo%2527sSeniorPicturesAtHudson%2527s-20.jpg" width="154" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Senior Pics by Hudson's</td></tr>
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What a gift your letter is to me. You succeeded in reminding me about what it's like to be a teenager, but the cool thing is that I am in touch with "teenagerdom" daily because—get this—I'm teaching math. At BJH! (It's called BMS now.) School being stressful and feeling left out are obstacles with which I help young people every day.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
You are going to find your place in this world. You will have friends of all ages, from all walks of life, and with many different strengths and challenges. You will reconcile with the friend you mentioned but will lose touch over the years. You are going to LOVE your job. You will have some health problems, but you'll learn to live with them. The health problems will help make you whom you are. You are going to pick up some new hobbies, including distance running. Yes, I'm serious. You're going to love it.</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibPaS9BaD30rD7un7ph7FsxQ9TRUG-hvP8j0GyQPy4gKqaZQ8WE6Q4YrUsBcxOx8eYggWwQmKg7vTULbealeLN96KSmzbw5C2oRjh2TDdvt09itZXEd14Id3GDWicOkH7HuzWeNvoCu1r8/s1600/19961102-LisaJoDiKatie%2526BekahAtJuniorMiss.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibPaS9BaD30rD7un7ph7FsxQ9TRUG-hvP8j0GyQPy4gKqaZQ8WE6Q4YrUsBcxOx8eYggWwQmKg7vTULbealeLN96KSmzbw5C2oRjh2TDdvt09itZXEd14Id3GDWicOkH7HuzWeNvoCu1r8/s200/19961102-LisaJoDiKatie%2526BekahAtJuniorMiss.bmp" width="70" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jr. Miss</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Your family, as you mentioned, is still the most important thing. Mom and Dad still show you they love you every second of every day, but you also will have a husband who will give you two stepsons. You will have some new puppy friends, too. By the way, Dandee will be VERY important as you navigate those health problems I mentioned. She is, indeed, one of the best friends you will ever have.</div>
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Privilege doesn't have a "d" in it. </div>
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Your statement that, "I want to remember specific seasons and how songs, smells, pictures, & hair styles remind me of those times," is one that struck me. I still do that.</div>
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Finally, all the events you listed as things you are anticipating are indeed awesome, but there is A LOT more to experience. Don't limit your view to just a few years down the road. Every experience you have is one from which you can learn. Don't miss those opportunities. </div>
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Love, </div>
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2015 Jo</div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>Mom's Letter to Me</b></div>
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In a serious moment, if you knew your daughter would listen to you, what would you like to tell them?</div>
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I want her to know that <u>everything</u> she does has a <u>consequence</u>, good or bad, even though it may not be an immediate consequence.</div>
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You must <u>be</u> a friend in order to <u>have</u> a friend.</div>
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You must <u>love</u> in order to <u>be loved</u>.</div>
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Happiness will <u>never</u> be found in material things. We can accumulate lots of “stuff” & not be happy… we feel we need more “stuff.”</div>
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People & passions will let you down, but God won’t ever let you down!</div>
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A successful person is one who is <u>content</u> with himself & his life, & doesn’t worry about the world’s definition of success.</div>
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I want her to be independent… to be able to take care of her own needs without depending on anyone else (<u>But</u> that doesn’t mean I <u>want</u> her to go through life without someone to help shoulder the load & share happy times.)</div>
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I want her to turn to God 1st for everything… to ask His help decision-making… to comply with His will in all things.</div>
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<b>2015 Jo's Response</b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHvnTOhPfH8b9bnvD0A6cwCDdI54oQ6he_u4FiP4B0pgjXcbvA_4ajSlziFqen4G5kIfxFrj_ibxSbRa0H3xMgw08my5ideXoMBp7ELzm4U5makFJ8ZUS9T7yCa-XIs968EpQ4YxH4z7FZ/s1600/19970530-DadJo%2526MomAtHighSchool.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="121" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHvnTOhPfH8b9bnvD0A6cwCDdI54oQ6he_u4FiP4B0pgjXcbvA_4ajSlziFqen4G5kIfxFrj_ibxSbRa0H3xMgw08my5ideXoMBp7ELzm4U5makFJ8ZUS9T7yCa-XIs968EpQ4YxH4z7FZ/s200/19970530-DadJo%2526MomAtHighSchool.bmp" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">BNL Graduation - May 30, 1997</td></tr>
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Really, could there be more perfect advice? Thanks, Mom. I really did listen to you back then, but it obviously rings truer now. The one that rings truest is, "A successful person is one who is <u>content</u> with himself & his life, & doesn’t worry about the world’s definition of success." What a great outlook and goal.<br />
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<b>Summary</b><br />
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I'm wondering how many of Mr. Whitaker's students have kept, found, and read their letters over the years. I hope that many others have been able to enjoy the experience. It was fun to hear from 16-year-old me to see how much I've changed, and to hear from 46-year-old Mom to see how much she has stayed the same, in the sense of being a rock. Thanks for sharing the experience with me!<br />
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Johttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635877192243288425noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5754577446004131293.post-7798886035870992082015-09-28T15:12:00.000-07:002015-09-28T15:25:30.628-07:00The Goals and THE Goal - IMM 2015For many runners, the goal for the first race of a long distance is simply to finish. The first time I ran a half marathon (<a href="http://www.indymini.com/" target="_blank">Indy Mini</a>, 2007), I just wanted to cross the line in one piece. I did, in 2:18. In subsequent years, my goals were related to time, most often trying to best previous efforts. 2:15, 2:11, 2:08.<br />
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It became my heart’s desire to break 2:00 in the half marathon. After multiple setbacks (hip tendinitis, heart rate issues, a femoral fracture), I finally ran a 1:54 at the <a href="http://www.monumentalmarathon.com/" target="_blank">Indianapolis Monumental Half Marathon</a> in 2012. I lowered that time to <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2014/05/500-festival-mini-marathon-race-report.html" target="_blank">1:53 in the Indy Mini in 2014</a>.<br />
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Similarly, the goal of my first marathon was merely to finish, which I did by run/walking in <a href="http://jokai.net/fun/slideshows/trips/kona2009-reflection.html" target="_blank">5:53 at the Kona Marathon in Hawaii in 2009</a>. Even though my next marathon did not go according to plan, I bested the Kona time with a <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2013/11/monumental-marathon-2013-race-report.html" target="_blank">5:26 at IMM 2013</a>, even after sitting in an ambulance for 45min. Last year, I ran <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2014/11/monumental-marathon-2014-race-report-i.html" target="_blank">a terrific race at IMM</a> and finished in 4:12.<br />
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So... what’s the goal this year?<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidbZuS4tQ63E1lPod8fZeb6_dIu5tchP2pR19JnyxNCq-fG6LHzJYoF9Py8wH_ExgJwgsNIyu_It9vCMas4MrmFWhAUKQkf59ab6sE5bnKW5cptQsmh4QKhBG9Y4jyyvDlP6s-eEaNneGc/s1600/20150928-PullTabChart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidbZuS4tQ63E1lPod8fZeb6_dIu5tchP2pR19JnyxNCq-fG6LHzJYoF9Py8wH_ExgJwgsNIyu_It9vCMas4MrmFWhAUKQkf59ab6sE5bnKW5cptQsmh4QKhBG9Y4jyyvDlP6s-eEaNneGc/s200/20150928-PullTabChart.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Progress</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Ninth Hour?</b><br />
All of that said, when I started my IMM training on June 30, I didn’t really have a goal in mind. After being injured late in 2014 and having health problems throughout the first half of 2015, I didn’t really know how capable my body would be. You might remember me saying in my <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2015/06/a-victory-dilemma.html" target="_blank">“What Should My Fall Race Be?” blog</a> that I wanted to RUN (not race) a full.<br />
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However, with the exception of losing my training partner to injury, this training cycle has gone spectacularly. I am about 70% done with training which makes my goal decision a sort of “ninth hour” announcement. (Instead of eleventh hour, see? Hilarious.) So, without further “a due” (inside joke), after careful analysis of the data from my runs and workouts, supportive friend/<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Limestone-Distance-Running-651909664892346" target="_blank">coach</a> Wendy and I both agree on my 2015 IMM Goal…<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I WANT TO BREAK 4:00 AT MONUMENTAL ON 11/7.</span><br />
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I actually have three goals, all in place to accommodate unpredictable possibilities. <br />
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<b>“A” Goal</b><br />
My A Goal is to break 4:00. The A Goal is place for perfect circumstances: great health, great weather, lots of time to rest the week of the marathon, nothing hurting, etc. Truly, I feel this goal is achievable even if everything isn’t exactly perfect. Marathon pace for sub-4:00 (9:09min/mi) is very comfortable for me right now. I’ve done <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/activity/902104906" target="_blank">an 18-miler</a> in training that averaged to marathon pace, and I felt like I could’ve done more afterward. That run and a few others I’ll mention below give me confidence that I can break 4:00.<br />
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It’s hard for me to imagine that it used to be my deepest yearning to break 2:00 in a half. I never would’ve imagined, even a few years ago, that breaking 4:00 in a full was a realistic goal for me.<br />
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<b>“B” Goal</b><br />
My B Goal is to PR—to break 4:12:53. My training went very well last year, but mainly consisted of lots of long slow(ish) miles due to my injury propensity. I had one “workout” in the 2014 training cycle: a <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/activity/610020035" target="_blank">20-mile progression run</a>. This training cycle, I’ve done progression runs, a <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/activity/910106134" target="_blank">chunk run</a>, and have more progression run/marathon pace runs planned. All data is indicating that I will be even better prepared for IMM 2015 than I was for IMM 2014.<br />
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<b>“C” Goal</b><br />
My C Goal is to finish with a smile no matter my time. In case everything goes south, I want the permission to slow down, enjoy myself, and live to chase time goals another day.<br />
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<b>Really? That’s Cheesy.</b><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgFIh8eieRHlV0ldgN1_YihFd2SIR2qMvfOLkn8S6TOJkc5QRX0gbNR0KW9z591ONsBv6gxzc3TIv3NpwcXkqnO6K2GsJ0MWLSh2MUSSifEKQiFb2UjorvhUAqgpHyRPJFCLG2hpUocoG0/s1600/20150817-MonumentalTrainingRun%252323-02%2528Edited%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgFIh8eieRHlV0ldgN1_YihFd2SIR2qMvfOLkn8S6TOJkc5QRX0gbNR0KW9z591ONsBv6gxzc3TIv3NpwcXkqnO6K2GsJ0MWLSh2MUSSifEKQiFb2UjorvhUAqgpHyRPJFCLG2hpUocoG0/s200/20150817-MonumentalTrainingRun%252323-02%2528Edited%2529.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before a training run on 8/17</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I know it. But it’s true. Because here’s the deal: those first two goals are exciting and real and scary and challenging and motivating, but the real truth is that I could finish that race in 8 hours (the cutoff, I think), and be happy because I’ve had SUCH FUN training. The marathon itself is going to represent less than 5% of the training mileage. If it doesn’t go well, I can say I had fun trying, and I’ll try again next year.<br />
<br />
I’ve already met THE goal. I’ve had fun.<br />
<br />
I know those of you who know me don’t believe a word of that paragraph up there, but I think I’ve undergone a bit of a metamorphosis with regards to time goals. After dealing with <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2014/12/broken-again.html" target="_blank">challenges</a> last winter/spring and also watching Wendy go through <a href="https://ultramusings.wordpress.com/2015/09/03/interrupted-an-honest-account-of-an-injured-runner/" target="_blank">challenges</a> this summer/fall, I truly am just <b>glad to be a part of running</b>, fast or slow, long or short. I really think I could cross the line, neither meeting my A nor B goals, and say, “I’ll get ‘em next time.”<br />
<br />
I guess that’s one of the cool things about running. It changes you for the better.<br />
<br />
In the meantime, I’ll catch you all at the <a href="http://www.bedfordhalfmarathon.com/" target="_blank">Bedford Half Marathon</a> on 10/10. I’m running it as a training run: marathon-ish pace (9:00s) for the first half, and progression in the second half. Join me if that sounds fun!Johttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635877192243288425noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5754577446004131293.post-82683287266285347372015-09-16T16:06:00.003-07:002015-09-16T18:51:18.613-07:00Do I Love Marathon Training… or Wendy?In June, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/wendy.miller.37819959" target="_blank">Wendy</a>, in her position as my running coach through <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Limestone-Distance-Running-651909664892346" target="_blank">Limestone Distance Running</a>, told me I could no longer delay the inevitable. I couldn’t endlessly list pros and cons. I had to make a decision.<br />
<br />
I had to decide to pursue the marathon or the half marathon as my fall goal.<br />
<br />
On the surface, it seems pretty cut and dried: 13.1 or 26.2? However, it isn’t that simple. The training, planning, and pacing for the two distances are all very different, and different runners have different preferences.<br />
<br />
Ultimately, after consulting with friends and family, I decided to run the marathon in spite of the fact that half marathon is my favorite distance to race; because even though I love to race a half, I love to <i>train</i> for a full, especially in the fall.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDOGZZLgZ-QJtHU1dF-2KaezdP7aQZ_ekBKh13BQLUjHS7RlyxLvDV-UX8KGr14lim6MlFHuGnhhKIfyGlE-pszgHAyDXtxJKeWw8f-3AeUUqcD9QeMlhvKOs4OOv3kgcfwiy2okFgMZPM/s1600/20150916-MonumentalTrainingRun%252336-07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDOGZZLgZ-QJtHU1dF-2KaezdP7aQZ_ekBKh13BQLUjHS7RlyxLvDV-UX8KGr14lim6MlFHuGnhhKIfyGlE-pszgHAyDXtxJKeWw8f-3AeUUqcD9QeMlhvKOs4OOv3kgcfwiy2okFgMZPM/s200/20150916-MonumentalTrainingRun%252336-07.jpg" width="200" /></a>To me, training is full of equal parts anticipation and execution. I love making the pull-tab chart of the training schedule, then watching as the tabs disappear. I love planning routes, fueling, hydration, pacing, and even attire for a long run, then accomplishing the run according to plan. I love seeing the little parts come together into a bigger picture as I feel my body getting stronger for the task ahead. I even love the big weather swing fall marathoners experience as we go from hot, sticky slogs to crisp, cool, breezy runs.<br />
<br />
That said, everything came to a screeching halt for me on Aug. 24. That afternoon, Wendy was diagnosed with a torn tendon (not a stress fracture, thankyouverymuch), and had emergency-ish surgery a few days later. Obviously, I did everything I could to support her (minus cooking , I'd never do that to her), because I know horribly well the rock bottom feelings that accompany an injury and how one experiences it in the very center of her being.<br />
<br />
Even though I knew I had lost her as my training partner for this training cycle, I didn't fully realize what that meant until I ran my first long run alone. Fourteen miles, not a terribly long long run, had never felt... long-er. No talking partner. No laughing partner. No "oh man, it's so humid" partner. No matching partner.<br />
<br />
It was just sad.<br />
<br />
And that was when it occurred to me. It's not just the marathon training I love.<br />
<br />
I love Wendy.<br />
<br />
All the planning? All the executing? All the rehashing run details? All the memory making? We do it all together.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAtFSCWEPCMTgD7K1LA1T1sYpzx9aO4YHKMvMy88DdKD7MHJvfBAN-fTYp0TusNtVhNtmr4ueW4-D1UTwqwQolY-PFlzbFkDeI9LTnqA95FaHNCyfdQsEgGdvEhbp2WWBg8Mx08lKZiEb_/s1600/20150912-MonumentalTrainingRun%252334-04%2528Edited-1%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAtFSCWEPCMTgD7K1LA1T1sYpzx9aO4YHKMvMy88DdKD7MHJvfBAN-fTYp0TusNtVhNtmr4ueW4-D1UTwqwQolY-PFlzbFkDeI9LTnqA95FaHNCyfdQsEgGdvEhbp2WWBg8Mx08lKZiEb_/s200/20150912-MonumentalTrainingRun%252334-04%2528Edited-1%2529.jpg" width="199" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Milwaukee Trail - 9/12/15</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I mean, I love to run. Don't get me wrong. This training cycle is going very well, and I'm extremely encouraged. (More on that another time.) However, the real thrill—the thing that makes me fly out of bed at 4:30 A.M. instead of simply rising—is that I'm experiencing it with a friend.<br />
<br />
I miss that.<br />
<br />
We still talk about my training. We still text all. the. time. I meet her at the five mile mark of my maintenance runs so I can run beside her while she scoots on what is now <i>our</i> injury scooter. But there is a lot of lonely in my training now. That pretty pic I took on last week's long run? I took it because I was near tears that Wendy wasn't there with me to see it. Stuff like that happens all time. I wonder what Wendy would say or how she would react to things I experience on runs.<br />
<br />
So... I'm pressing forward. And I'm loving it. But I sure am missing my best friend.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbb5DbCmsIZmb7dCX5WInXVoJ5pt-Vt7_kJVDoEj9smTHt6DYUNeyzPlguKzExMSq7l5Sv7cX7BlWQz-71QIRchbxAeCC03YUk9Kapi8CBkm8HoA9h2rARUg1vOmTyTwSxGjgW_rOpmE9j/s1600/20141127-GiveThanks4Miler-28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbb5DbCmsIZmb7dCX5WInXVoJ5pt-Vt7_kJVDoEj9smTHt6DYUNeyzPlguKzExMSq7l5Sv7cX7BlWQz-71QIRchbxAeCC03YUk9Kapi8CBkm8HoA9h2rARUg1vOmTyTwSxGjgW_rOpmE9j/s320/20141127-GiveThanks4Miler-28.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><3</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Johttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635877192243288425noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5754577446004131293.post-8527962264017583982015-06-24T15:53:00.004-07:002015-06-24T17:35:51.991-07:00A Victory & A Dilemma<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhohBM_HuPcLTiLdK2BDqk0hLImCJvu_onsVJ4BJXi7z3hv2QvHNTNAdtQPqaCIGULuMliWYqIEGGzYsb5JyqSKbS_VtRMFDASx3wo8NkJavQ7n_PnIGQP4awRkvkc5rbLdOgFlotc8V7Ne/s1600/20150624-RunningComp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhohBM_HuPcLTiLdK2BDqk0hLImCJvu_onsVJ4BJXi7z3hv2QvHNTNAdtQPqaCIGULuMliWYqIEGGzYsb5JyqSKbS_VtRMFDASx3wo8NkJavQ7n_PnIGQP4awRkvkc5rbLdOgFlotc8V7Ne/s200/20150624-RunningComp.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seymour Half and Monumental Mile</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
With the exception of the <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2015/04/redemption-run-whyimini.html" target="_blank">pre-Mini blog</a>, I haven't had much to say about my running since <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2014/12/broken-again.html" target="_blank">my fractured fibula</a> healed. That lack of writing wasn't an oversight.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I didn't <i>want</i> to write because I was frustrated with my running.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Every. single. run. this spring felt like a gigantic effort. My pace was noticeably slower than it was before the injury, and my heart rate was noticeably higher. I ran a few races as workouts, and though I had a good time, my efforts and my performances did not seem to match well. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
(Oh, check out <a href="http://www.jokai.net/gottarun" target="_blank">my running web site</a> if you're interested in any stats'n'such from those races. Also, I made <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YVO0PkxPx6A" target="_blank">a cool slideshow of the Mini</a>, and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I5pHCcrzNEk" target="_blank">an even cooler slideshow of Wendy's 100</a>.)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I have comeback from injury plenty of times, and even though it takes some time to build back endurance and speed, I had never experienced anything as arduous as this particular process. It seemed that I had plateaued, and I was about to blame it on age (because 35.5 is sooooo different from 35.7), when a different idea came to me.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Dr. Cobb</b></div>
<div>
The very same week I broke my leg (third week of November 2014), I started a new medication. I noticed no side effects. I completed one training run after taking the med before I was sidelined. It was <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/activity/637549926" target="_blank">a hard workout</a>, but I assumed the difficulty I felt was because I was running on a broken leg.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
My epiphany about two weeks ago was to quit the med. I did, and everything—like that—is back to normal. LIKE THAT.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
OK, so I didn't consult my doctor first. I promise I monitored everything I needed to monitor. I eventually discussed it with her... nine days later. :-)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>HELP!</b></div>
<div>
So now that I know I am truly "back," so to speak, I have a dilemma. My <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Limestone-Distance-Running/651909664892346" target="_blank">Limestone Distance Running</a> coach (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/wendy.miller.37819959" target="_blank">Wendy</a>) says I need to decide by June 30 what I want my fall goal to be: race the Monumental Half Marathon, or run the Monumental Marathon. The races are held concurrently on November 7, so it likely won't be hot. I was hoping I could get some of my friends' input before I make my decision.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Here are a few advantages for each race.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<u>Half Advantages</u></div>
<div>
-The half is my favorite distance to race, and I stand a decent chance of doing well.</div>
<div>
-Wendy will be able to run the whole race with me.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<u>Marathon Advantages</u></div>
<div>
-Training for a marathon is more fun than training for a half.</div>
<div>
-I'll be able to enjoy race day more since I won't be running as hard as I would in a half.<br />
<br />
I think both the marathon and the half present the same injury risk for me because marathon training involves more volume while half training involves more speedwork. Both of those elements have been impetuses for injury for me. (Edit: Actually, speedwork is probably more dangerous.) Keep in mind that my fractured fibula last fall happened because I didn't take off enough time after the marathon, not because of the marathon itself.<br />
<br />
My orthopedist says my bones and joints are ready to run 26.2 or race 13.1. My <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NovusStrengthTraining" target="_blank">Novus</a> trainers say I'm in shape for either goal. Wendy agrees. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ed.cobb.16" target="_blank">Ed</a> thinks I should do the half because he thinks the marathon is a bigger injury risk. I haven't talked to my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/cathy.k.hackney" target="_blank">Mom</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ken.hackney" target="_blank">Dad</a> about it, but I know they prefer it when I run a half. In spite of that, I am leaning toward marathon, just because I like the training, but before I do, I want to elicit advice from my friends...<br />
<br />
<b>What do you think? What would you do?</b></div>
Johttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635877192243288425noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5754577446004131293.post-67314639409126643612015-04-28T15:58:00.002-07:002015-04-30T14:46:25.649-07:00Redemption Run — #WhyIMini<blockquote class="tr_bq">
re·demp·tion<br />
rəˈdem(p)SH(ə)n/<br />
the action of regaining or gaining possession of something</blockquote>
Every year since 2007, I have had a lofty goal for the <a href="http://www.indymini.com/" target="_blank">500 Festival Mini Marathon</a>. In 2007, I wanted to finish my first half marathon. The goal for each subsequent year has been to PR. Sometimes I did it (2009, 2010, <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2014/05/500-festival-mini-marathon-race-report.html" target="_blank">2014</a>). Sometimes I didn't (2011, 2013). Sometimes I didn't even make it to the starting line due to fractures (2008, 2012). But 2015 is all kinds of different, because this year, I'm not running to PR.<br />
<br />
I'm running to run.<br />
<br />
<b>2015 Goal</b><br />
Every calendar year, I set running goals, which usually include a set of time goals for different distances. This year, in place of race goals, I set one aim:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Run a lot of miles with a lot of friends without getting injured.</blockquote>
I don't care how fast I go. I just want to run healthily. Coming off another Crohn's-caused fracture (my fourth), has helped me to see that there are more important things than race goals, and one of those things is the act of running, and especially the act of running with friends.<br />
<br />
This year, I run the Mini to enjoy the experience. To run with friends. To soak in the atmosphere. To laugh. To make memories. To show that I can.<br />
<br />
To regain control of my running life.<br />
<br />
And I am not the only one.<br />
<br />
<b>Wendy</b><br />
In 2014, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/wendy.miller.37819959" target="_blank">Wendy</a> had two surgeries: one in January to remove a fibroma from her foot, and one in November to release an entrapped nerve. Just yesterday, Wendy had her first epileptic seizure in years. In less than six weeks, Wendy will run a 100-mile race in Wisconsin.<br />
<br />
Saturday, Wendy runs to show that NOTHING will stop her.<br />
<br />
<b>Chelsey</b><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/chelsey.schofield.9" target="_blank">Chelsey</a> is 15 and has juvenile arthritis. Doctor's visits and an aching body are commonplace in her life. Training for a half marathon in winter's fierce cold is very difficult for her joints. This Mini will be Chelsey's last for a few years so that she may focus on high school cross country and track.<br />
<br />
Saturday, Chelsey runs to show that NOTHING will stop her.<br />
<br />
<b>Amelia</b><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/amelia.unger.5" target="_blank">Amelia</a>, 12-years-old and daughter of Wendy, is the healthiest of the four of us. However, Amelia is running for a cause. She is raising money for <a href="https://www.facebook.com/fatheadsrescue" target="_blank">Fat Heads Rescue</a>, a dog rescue in Southern Indiana. She has a heart for animals and their welfare, and she uses her running to raise both funds and awareness.<br />
<br />
Saturday, Amelia runs to show that NOTHING will stop her—from any goal.<br />
<br />
We all view Saturday as Amelia's run—Amelia's run for the Fat Heads dogs—and our purpose is to surround her and support her in her efforts. However, this run holds special meaning for each one of us as we regain possession of something we love—the run. Perhaps the most special part of it is that we will do it together.<br />
<br />
THAT is #WhyWeMini.<br />
<br />
<i>To track us or other friends in the race, download the Indy Mini app, or <a href="http://results.xacte.com/track?id=861" target="_blank">follow this link</a>.</i><br />
<i>To make a donation to Amelia's fundraiser for Fat Heads, <a href="http://www.youcaring.com/nonprofits/running-for-fat-heads-/282296" target="_blank">follow this link</a>.</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV6JvZFaqmX8rzz6QChfjhe1kIguiVt1eCUE4HrPeX20cnQkfxOaOzGSdiXpAt4QQQKj0rNV30ugCmEUuGw3vxRyF5IiHZMEl0PuSIWWTEVeoJBo73lqa6bQr3QbtsMqTzxF9lXT_B61te/s1600/20150428-Runners.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV6JvZFaqmX8rzz6QChfjhe1kIguiVt1eCUE4HrPeX20cnQkfxOaOzGSdiXpAt4QQQKj0rNV30ugCmEUuGw3vxRyF5IiHZMEl0PuSIWWTEVeoJBo73lqa6bQr3QbtsMqTzxF9lXT_B61te/s1600/20150428-Runners.jpg" height="379" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Johttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635877192243288425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5754577446004131293.post-48148909845115788902015-03-12T07:18:00.000-07:002015-03-12T07:37:05.579-07:00#PiMomentMy Bedford Middle School seventh grade students and I are hosting a hashtag so that everyone may enjoy the upcoming Pi Moment. Pi Moment is on:<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Saturday, March 14, 2015, at 9:26:53 A.M.</span></b> in your time zone. <br />
<br />
Why? Pi, the Greek letter that represents a circle's circumference divided by its diameter, is approximately equal to 3.141592653..., and that moment is 3.14.15 9:26:53.<br />
<br />
Here's how you can participate. <b><u>Take a photo</u></b> on Saturday at 9:26 A.M. (Wait 53 sec. if you want to be super accurate.) It can be a selfie, a photo of your surroundings, or whatever depicts life for you at that moment. Then, post it to your favorite social media outlet(s) with the hastag <b><u>#PiMoment</u></b> and <u><b>tag me</b></u>.<br />
<br />
Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/jokai" target="_blank">JoAnna Kai Cobb</a><br />
Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/JoCobb" target="_blank">@JoCobb</a><br />
Instagram: <a href="https://instagram.com/runnerjocobb/" target="_blank">@RunnerJoCobb</a><br />
<br />
It might help to set an alarm on your phone to help you remember.<br />
<br />
The goal is to commemorate a moment that happens only once every century: #PiMoment. Celebrate with us, and share with your friends!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXPJZ7dHjjBxBiLxErCM0d_0MXOuVQq1dcnyALpg7kpoarEdZHBLb_xft7ZsmTbTM2vVAt1Igf08o0sL6diuA1-t3NO4h_zdPQhUkGeWW64i36HCxxh3F6rfXvfggn84AXUSoGdffqQLT3/s1600/download.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXPJZ7dHjjBxBiLxErCM0d_0MXOuVQq1dcnyALpg7kpoarEdZHBLb_xft7ZsmTbTM2vVAt1Igf08o0sL6diuA1-t3NO4h_zdPQhUkGeWW64i36HCxxh3F6rfXvfggn84AXUSoGdffqQLT3/s1600/download.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">#PiMoment</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<i>PS - We'll let you use 9:26:53 P.M. if you're lazy and sleep past the first one! </i>:-)Johttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635877192243288425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5754577446004131293.post-39850282920882000192015-01-08T14:29:00.002-08:002015-01-08T16:53:33.393-08:00When A Broken Leg Is Not "The Thing"When I blogged with <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2014/12/broken-again.html" target="_blank">the news about my broken leg</a> five weeks ago, I anticipated that it would be the initial blog in Comeback Series with titles like, "Training On Crutches," and "Scoot-Scootin' Back Into Fitness," and "Five Days Until I Get This Boot Off My Leg." (It really is five days until I get this boot off my leg.) I thought it would be a fun way to document my progress and keep me sane. However, aside from the initial entry and occasional social media updates, I never wrote about my journey (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/ed.cobb.16" target="_blank">Ed</a> is rolling his eyes right now), with this fracture again, and the reason is simple.<br />
<br />
My broken leg became secondary. It was no longer The Thing.<br />
<br />
<b>The Weird Numbness</b><br />
Even before I learned about my fracture, I had started having unusual symptoms that didn't match the things I typically experience with Crohn's or general runner's aches. Remember <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2014/11/monumental-marathon-2014-race-report-i.html" target="_blank">my blog about the marathon</a>, how cold it was, and the numb foot and leg I experienced for a half mile? That was the first sign, though I didn't know it at the time.<br />
<br />
In the days post-marathon, as I was unknowingly working a nice little fracture into my left fibula, I noticed that my heels were going numb every evening. I attributed it to lingering plantar fasciitis and didn't think much about it except to talk about how weird it was to touch my heels and not feel a thing.<br />
<br />
My blood pressure started rising. So did my already-high heart rate.<br />
<br />
After I got the boot on my leg, I remember loosening it because I had lost feeling in my entire left foot, and that <i>must</i> be due to a too-tight walking cast, right?<br />
<br />
The numbness was accompanied by deathly cold skin. I burned my foot on our heater one evening trying to warm it. I couldn't feel that it was too hot.<br />
<br />
<b>The Weird Colors</b><br />
Shortly after my fracture was diagnosed, my toes started going numb every evening, One night, I took off my boot to look at them, and what I saw was frightening. My toes were all bright blue. I sent <a href="http://runnerwendy.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Wendy</a> a picture. She came over and took my pedal pulse, which was diminished. That's when we involved our orthopedist.<br />
<br />
The numbness started happening three to four times a day. My feet, or parts of them, turned white as they went numb, changed to blue after several minutes, then turned bright, fiery red as the blood rushed back. That part is extremely painful, a judgment that comes from a girl who has undergone kidney stones multiple times. I'll spare you a picture of the blue toes, but here is <a href="http://www.joannakaicobb.com/20141222.jpg" target="_blank">a link to the white stage</a> for those of you interested in such things. (As always, I make the <a href="http://www.joannakaicobb.com/20141222.jpg" target="_blank">yuck-pic</a> optional. You're welcome.)<br />
<br />
<b>The Weird Diagnosis</b><br />
Raynaud's Phenomenon. Check out <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raynaud%27s_phenomenon" target="_blank">the Wiki</a>, if you'd like. It's not just, "Hey, my feet are cold!" It's, "Hey, I need to get my blood flowing again or I may lose this toe." It's brought to life by cold conditions and emotional stress. It's not all that uncommon. However, mine is in my feet instead of the hands, and it suddenly started attacking my life out of nowhere.<br />
<br />
Raynaud's can be primary—not occurring in association with another disease—or secondary. When it's secondary, something else causes it. I'm in the middle of a series of tests to determine why this is happening so suddenly and so forcefully.<br />
<br />
<b>The Weird Blog</b><br />
So why am I posting this weird blog about it now? Because today, I got some really good news. Originally, all the signs were pointing toward my Raynaud's being secondary to a very serious condition with a very serious prognosis. Today, I learned that it's unlikely that I have that condition. After two-and-a-half weeks of my family and I being burdened with the what-ifs of a potential diagnosis, my heart feels so light with relief that I wanted to shout my joy from the rooftops... and this is the 21st century way to do that.<br />
<br />
Also, Ed has saved the day—no, the year—with the purchase of hunter's toe warmers. I wear 115°F on each foot except when I sleep. It has reduced the attacks by 90%, at least. Tomorrow, I begin taking a new medicine that will help, as well. I'm allowed to be outdoors, but I have to take extra precautions to stay as warm as possible.<br />
<br />
Obviously, there's still more to learn, but according to my new rheumatologist, we can learn those things while I teach and run and quilt and sing and laugh and love and LIVE.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-C2PrEPTyrxSxTXCvcQhZ700CO5tcmvDvjs3i5lnxtUd88zQeoKfrpQKrBdiwYoJDGcYq_uD-3ohB0cAQGFxFhcLf5KSAwxyuucbopZWkoCAVa_cbxLCZxoS8v2mgruLIoUD9syfGNGlC/s1600/20130420-FrenchLick5K-21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-C2PrEPTyrxSxTXCvcQhZ700CO5tcmvDvjs3i5lnxtUd88zQeoKfrpQKrBdiwYoJDGcYq_uD-3ohB0cAQGFxFhcLf5KSAwxyuucbopZWkoCAVa_cbxLCZxoS8v2mgruLIoUD9syfGNGlC/s1600/20130420-FrenchLick5K-21.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love my family...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUtZSdqXcJ5Kd9dprIv4Ot7B4kL2xnjuCSX8nUUmSgdVPz7Xrc_qKeLG2GtjeBHJZqqmVCkmdUOEnxK1o_YO1gKm0qiBsxXi7QsSEh10jhVsT0uaeuc9ExvfybU932pdNNInCF-6Aghbbt/s1600/20150106-ColdRun.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUtZSdqXcJ5Kd9dprIv4Ot7B4kL2xnjuCSX8nUUmSgdVPz7Xrc_qKeLG2GtjeBHJZqqmVCkmdUOEnxK1o_YO1gKm0qiBsxXi7QsSEh10jhVsT0uaeuc9ExvfybU932pdNNInCF-6Aghbbt/s1600/20150106-ColdRun.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">...love my friends.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div>
<i>I could not have borne the last month without my dear family and friends! Love you all.</i></div>
Johttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635877192243288425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5754577446004131293.post-18911520427882060462014-12-31T05:07:00.003-08:002014-12-31T06:30:21.734-08:00Running The Numbers - 2014I am obsessed with both math and running. I keep tons of data on my training and racing. Here are a lot more numerical details than you probably want about my running in 2014. :-)<br />
<br />
<b>Miles Run</b>: 1,111.26<br />
<b>Increase Over Previous Annual Mileage High</b>: 864.78 mi., 28.5% increase<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9O2uRO743BHpoHDUzBhMPXntsjORldtM1JRqD7ePhpeUcaiGiWYgv5GE0V-T8QJZYuqlegABst46onz3L_CiU78G9zyNXdaE1CdAHF9RXVwqiqqhKCfpobGWUK97LpM8WH_qGeURKf57X/s1600/20141004-BedfordHalfMarathon-26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9O2uRO743BHpoHDUzBhMPXntsjORldtM1JRqD7ePhpeUcaiGiWYgv5GE0V-T8QJZYuqlegABst46onz3L_CiU78G9zyNXdaE1CdAHF9RXVwqiqqhKCfpobGWUK97LpM8WH_qGeURKf57X/s1600/20141004-BedfordHalfMarathon-26.jpg" height="200" width="113" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bedford Half, 10/4</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Runs</b>: 141<br />
<b>Hours Run</b>: 179.32<br />
<b>Average Run Distance</b>: 7.88 mi.<br />
<b>Average Run Pace</b>: 9:40.92<br />
<b>Average Run Duration</b>: 1:16:18.4<br />
<b>Miles Walked</b>: 126<br />
<b>Walks</b>: 84<br />
<b>Average Walk Distance</b>: 1.50<br />
<b>Visits to the Gym</b>: 56<br />
<b>Personal Training Sessions</b>: 49<br />
<b>Personal Training Hours</b>: 24.5<br />
<b>Miles On Elliptical</b>: 18.0<br />
<b>Miles On Scooter</b>: 19.2<br />
<b>Races Run</b>: 9<br />
<b>PRs Set</b>: 3 (<a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2014/06/monumental-mile-race-report.html" target="_blank">Mile</a>, <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2014/05/500-festival-mini-marathon-race-report.html" target="_blank">Half Marathon</a>, <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2014/11/monumental-marathon-2014-race-report-i.html" target="_blank">Marathon</a>)<br />
<b>Falls</b>: 0<br />
<b>Injuries</b>: 2 (<a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2014/03/a-worriers-mind-and-shin-splint.html" target="_blank">shin splints</a> and a <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2014/12/broken-again.html" target="_blank">stress fracture</a>)<br />
<b>Toenails Lost</b>: 7<br />
<b>Surgeries</b>: 1 (<a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2014/06/vow-of-silence.html" target="_blank">vocal cord</a>, unrelated to running)<br />
<b>Pairs of Shoes Retired</b>: 3<br />
<b>Pairs of Shoes Purchased</b>: 5<br />
<b>States Where I Ran</b>: 2, Indiana and Kentucky<br />
<b>Longest Run</b>: 26.20 mi., <a href="http://connect.garmin.com/activity/624613614" target="_blank">November 1</a><br />
<b>Shortest Run</b>: 1.01 mi., <a href="http://connect.garmin.com/activity/454809117" target="_blank">March 3</a><br />
<b>Week With Most Running</b>: July 13-19, 36.82 mi.<br />
<b>Month With Most Running</b>: August, 140.33 mi.<br />
<b>Month With Least Running</b>: December, 0.00 mi.<br />
<b>Favorite Run (Tie)</b>: <a href="http://connect.garmin.com/activity/431182973" target="_blank">January 17</a>, 11.16 mi.; <a href="http://connect.garmin.com/activity/555071340" target="_blank">August 2</a>, 16.13 mi.; <a href="http://connect.garmin.com/activity/605184087" target="_blank">October 4</a>, 13.14 mi.; <a href="http://connect.garmin.com/activity/610020035" target="_blank">October 11</a>, 20.01 mi.; <a href="http://connect.garmin.com/activity/624613614" target="_blank">November 1</a>, 26.20 mi.<br />
<b>Least Favorite Run</b>: <a href="http://connect.garmin.com/activity/571594061" target="_blank">August 23</a>, 18.03 mi.<br />
<b>Percentage of Goals Reached</b>: 77.8% (7/9, see below)<br />
<b>Weight Range in Pounds</b>: 10.0 (post <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2014/06/vow-of-silence.html" target="_blank">surgical</a> weight loss)<br />
<b>Total Lifetime Mileage</b>: 4,064.00<br />
<b>Percent of Lifetime Mileage Run in 2014</b>: 27.34%<br />
<br />
<b><u>Mileage By The Month</u></b><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQFsp-fVRnAWQVlJdNt5BPyjTE6S8B_r1TIIGiw33pXIEZ7ra9BKIR4m8YdAPeH-fw2XbXQN46OR0optPHwwFOlr25smQ1_lcFoL9G0OSV6L9VX9iGZbwH6wl5RB5i5YvfPEX3efa6EeJc/s1600/20141101-MonumentalMarathon-100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQFsp-fVRnAWQVlJdNt5BPyjTE6S8B_r1TIIGiw33pXIEZ7ra9BKIR4m8YdAPeH-fw2XbXQN46OR0optPHwwFOlr25smQ1_lcFoL9G0OSV6L9VX9iGZbwH6wl5RB5i5YvfPEX3efa6EeJc/s1600/20141101-MonumentalMarathon-100.jpg" height="200" width="142" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Monumental, 11/1</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>January</b>: 59.29<br />
<b>February</b>: 65.57<br />
<b>March</b>: 55.87<br />
<b>April</b>: 88.88<br />
<b>May</b>: 100.10<br />
<b>June</b>: 125.46<br />
<b>July</b>: 137.60<br />
<b>August</b>: 140.33<br />
<b>September</b>: 135.52<br />
<b>October</b>: 118.17<br />
<b>November</b>: 84.47<br />
<b>December</b>: 0.00<br />
<br />
<b><u>Goals</u></b><br />
<div class="UFICommentContent" data-reactid=".1d.1:3:1:$comment391965017605989_1973606:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".1d.1:3:1:$comment391965017605989_1973606:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.0:$comment-body"><span data-reactid=".1d.1:3:1:$comment391965017605989_1973606:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.0:$comment-body.0.$end:0:$4:0"><b>1. Remain injury-free</b></span></span></span></span><br />
Failed. Incurred <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2014/03/a-worriers-mind-and-shin-splint.html" target="_blank">shin splints in January</a> and <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2014/12/broken-again.html" target="_blank">a stress fracture in November</a>.<br />
<b>2. Surpass 1,000 mi. in annual mileage</b></div>
<div class="UFICommentContent" data-reactid=".1d.1:3:1:$comment391965017605989_1973606:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0">
Succeeded. 1,111.26 mi.<br />
<b>3. PR in the Mini (under 1:54:19)</b></div>
<div class="UFICommentContent" data-reactid=".1d.1:3:1:$comment391965017605989_1973606:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0">
Succeeded. <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2014/05/500-festival-mini-marathon-race-report.html" target="_blank">1:53:35</a><br />
<span style="color: black;"><span data-reactid=".1d.1:3:1:$comment391965017605989_1973606:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.0:$comment-body.0.$end:0:$10:0"><b>4. Break 1:50 in the Mini</b></span></span><br />
Failed.<br />
<span style="color: black;"><span data-reactid=".1d.1:3:1:$comment391965017605989_1973606:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.0:$comment-body.0.$end:0:$12:0"><b>5. Run the Red Eye Relay</b></span></span></div>
<div class="UFICommentContent" data-reactid=".1d.1:3:1:$comment391965017605989_1973606:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0">
Succeeded. (2 blog posts: <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2014/07/a-pre-red-eye-conversation-with-my-body.html" target="_blank">1</a>, <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2014/07/red-eye-relay-2014-race-report.html" target="_blank">2</a>)<br />
<span style="color: black;"><span data-reactid=".1d.1:3:1:$comment391965017605989_1973606:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.0:$comment-body.0.$end:0:$14:0"><b>6. Break 4:30 in Monumental (and run the whole thing without passing out)</b></span></span></div>
<div class="UFICommentContent" data-reactid=".1d.1:3:1:$comment391965017605989_1973606:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0">
Succeeded. <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2014/11/monumental-marathon-2014-race-report-i.html" target="_blank">4:12:53</a><br />
<span style="color: black;"><span data-reactid=".1d.1:3:1:$comment391965017605989_1973606:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.0:$comment-body.0.$end:0:$16:0"><b>7. Work on the committee to stage the BMS 5K</b></span></span></div>
<div class="UFICommentContent" data-reactid=".1d.1:3:1:$comment391965017605989_1973606:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0">
Succeeded, and <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2014/06/may-mileage-milwaukee-and-bms-5k.html" target="_blank">beat the boss</a>.</div>
<div class="UFICommentContent" data-reactid=".1d.1:3:1:$comment391965017605989_1973606:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0">
<span style="color: black;"><span data-reactid=".1d.1:3:1:$comment391965017605989_1973606:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.0:$comment-body.0.$end:0:$18:0"><b>8. Encourage another person or people to become more focused on fitness</b></span></span><br />
Succeeded.<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<span style="color: black;"><span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".1d.1:3:1:$comment391965017605989_1973606:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.0:$comment-body"><span data-reactid=".1d.1:3:1:$comment391965017605989_1973606:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.0:$comment-body.0.$end:0:$20:0"><b>9. Build more muscle</b></span></span><span data-reactid=".1d.1:3:1:$comment391965017605989_1973606:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.3"></span></span><br />
Succeeded. Thanks, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/samantha.rightmyer" target="_blank">Sam</a>!<br />
<br />
<b><u>Year In Review Video</u></b><br />
Here is my Running Year in Review video for 2014.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/GiGaPI2jdyo?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<br /></div>
Thanks to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ed.cobb.16" target="_blank">Ed</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/cathy.k.hackney" target="_blank">Mom</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ken.hackney" target="_blank">Dad</a>, <a href="http://runnerwendy.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Wendy</a>, and all my running buds for 11/12ths of a great year. ;-)Johttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635877192243288425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5754577446004131293.post-71405051227211382622014-12-04T15:00:00.000-08:002014-12-04T15:00:30.221-08:00Broken AgainThe "tendinitis" I had in my left ankle just didn't feel like tendinitis to me. It hurt(s) considerably more than past cases of tendinitis, so I went to see my orthopedist. He ordered an MRI.<br />
<br />
My fibula is fractured.<br />
<br />
Again.<br />
<br />
<b>What?</b><br />
It's a distal fibular stress fracture that my doctor describes as both unusual and "not as bad as the last time." I don't know if he means the pelvic fracture of 2013 (probably not, because it was nearly runnable), the femoral fracture of 2012, or the higher fibular fracture of 2008. Likely, he's referencing the latter two. A femoral fracture is always all kinds of bad, and the 2008 fibular fracture was wide.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7ZYLL6EILNRvFM74K44sa6Nf_MnRiZCg-hS_kyPzMOsJIdMORfw4hSI4CrLvXV8H38UJTMbNBFdoAQzESQ1bUtNw-oGJY_LJQEy6heWxV4fAEIcSR0IFGFhRqIfSB7-KKNBN_jnPh-y3O/s1600/Crutches.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7ZYLL6EILNRvFM74K44sa6Nf_MnRiZCg-hS_kyPzMOsJIdMORfw4hSI4CrLvXV8H38UJTMbNBFdoAQzESQ1bUtNw-oGJY_LJQEy6heWxV4fAEIcSR0IFGFhRqIfSB7-KKNBN_jnPh-y3O/s1600/Crutches.jpg" height="163" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2012 Fracture Healing</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Why?</b><br />
Because I didn't rest enough after the marathon.<br />
<br />
Because I did a hard workout on snow.<br />
<br />
Because I have Crohn's disease.<br />
<br />
Because it's what my body seems to do in response to stress.<br />
<br />
Probably more the first two than the last two.<br />
<br />
<b>Now What?</b><br />
I'm in a boot for six weeks. I can't do any physical exercise for two weeks. I was told, "Don't even think about running for eight weeks." My doctor told me I might use crutches for the first two weeks to help it heal faster. I've chosen a hybrid crutches/boot plan. I mostly crutched today.<br />
<br />
<b>How Do You Feel?</b><br />
I'm angry. I'm really angry. I will make peace with it all in a few days, but since 11:42 A.M. yesterday, when my doctor called and told me to stop walking, I have been dealing with a storm of emotions that has not yet settled. I just have to have a few days to deal with those emotions and accept the situation before I can... I don't know... think properly.<br />
<br />
Let me rundown the "I Knows" for you.<br />
<br />
1. I know that <u>I'm lucky this didn't happen during Monumental Marathon training.</u><br />
Extremely lucky. I was uninjured on <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2014/10/the-one.html" target="_blank">my training cycle</a>. I got to run my race and experience <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2014/11/monumental-marathon-2014-race-report-i.html" target="_blank">everything that happened on 11/1</a>. If someone had said, "Hey, would you like to fracture your leg in October or November?" you know how I would've answered. November, please.<br />
<br />
2. I know that <u>I don't have any major running events in the next few months.</u><br />
Just like the <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2014/06/vow-of-silence.html" target="_blank">vocal issues</a>, this fracture is very timely.<br />
<br />
3. I know that <u>I should've taken a longer break after the marathon.</u><br />
My body isn't like everyone else's. Check. Learned. Again.<br />
<br />
4. I know that <u>I have one tiny fracture in one bone.</u><br />
Certainly, lots of people deal with much more difficult situations every day.<br />
<br />
5. I know that <u>my life is so much more than running, and I have a lot for which to be thankful.</u><br />
Of course it is. Of course I do.<br />
<br />
6. I know that <u>it's just a couple months. This, too, shall pass.</u><br />
Yes. But see, right now, it hasn't passed. It's a fresh open wound. All of this stuff will be a learning experience, an eventual distant memory, something that will make me stronger, and something that will make success sweeter. Yes, it will; yes, it will.<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Will</i>.<br />
<br />
Currently? <i>Isn't</i>.<br />
<br />
Currently, my leg is broken. And. I'm. ANGRY.<br />
<br />
<b>Why Are You So Upset?</b><br />
Life is beautiful, and life is pain. That's not a profound statement. Everyone knows it, and that's why everyone has his or her own coping mechanism for the pain. My coping mechanism is running. Running helps me control emotional pain, mental pain/stress, and above all, the almighty Crohn's pain. Therefore, being without running is a very scary prospect for me.<br />
<br />
Luckily, I have other outlets I can use like singing (yay for the <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2014/07/karma-of-cord.html" target="_blank">healed voice</a>), quilting (already did a little of that), BNL basketball watching (three cheers for <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ed.cobb.16" target="_blank">Coach Cobb</a>), and writing (typing this blog is actually helping a lot), among others. My eggs aren't all in one basket. There are just an awful lot of eggs in that running basket.<br />
<br />
There are also other little things that sting. <a href="http://runnerwendy.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Wendy</a> (who is part of my active and <i>wonderful</i> support group including Ed, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/cathy.k.hackney" target="_blank">Mom</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ken.hackney" target="_blank">Dad</a>, many other friends, and all of BMS), is venturing back into the running world just as I'm exiting. Folks have already approached her to join them on their runs "since Jo is injured." That's very nice of them, as I wouldn't want her to be alone, but it still hurts not to be a part of "the scene."<br />
<br />
<b>Just Stop.</b><br />
This moment is when people say, "This is what happens when you run. You did this to yourself. You should just stop running. It would save you the pain."<br />
<br />
No. As I mentioned above, it's just the opposite. It controls the pain. I guess the penance of using running as pain control is the occasional pain of running's loss. "Running is a fickle mistress," says the father of a friend.<br />
<br />
<b>So...?</b><br />
So, there it is. Matched with tons of other little this-es and that-s, it's been a heckuva week or two.<br />
<br />
Those of you who know me well (and likely those of you who don't), know me as a very positive, "look on the bright side" person. I promise she's still in there. I've seen her a bit today. She will soon work on a "Good Things That Happened Because I Broke My Fibula Again" list. She just has to find her way through all of these feelings over the next few hours and days. Until then... at least I can do a push-up. ;-)Johttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635877192243288425noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5754577446004131293.post-89357387626991706862014-11-26T17:23:00.000-08:002014-11-27T13:18:18.832-08:00I've Got The Post-Marathon Ankle BluesIt's a thing. <a href="http://running.competitor.com/2014/04/training/beating-the-post-marathon-blues_49443" target="_blank">A real thing.</a> If you've ever thrown yourself fully into a project or event, you know the feeling. You've given tons of focus to a goal, counted the days until its culmination, and ultimately experienced a wonderful success... or at least, learned a lot on the journey. And...<br />
<br />
...then what? I've got the low down, no good, post-marathon blues!<br />
<br />
Actually, I don't, but I do feel a trace amount of "What now?" I dedicated hours and hours and hours to my marathon goal. For a whole year, every running step I took was aimed at helping me successfully complete the <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2014/11/monumental-marathon-2014-race-report-i.html" target="_blank">2014 Indianapolis Monumental Marathon</a>. I finished in record time, basked in the glow of success, took a week (-ish) off running, and...<br />
<br />
<b>...Set A New Goal</b><br />
I'm very lucky that my marathon of choice is always held the first Saturday in November. When the low down, no good, post-marathon blues hit me, it's always the holiday season, which brings things I love: family, Christmas decorations and music, colder temperatures, and the Give Thanks 4-Miler.<br />
<br />
Give Thanks is a race I've finished every year since its inception. It's held in Mitchell, Indiana, on Thanksgiving morning, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/allen.burris" target="_blank">the race director</a> is a friend of mine. The course is fun, the people are nice, and there are always snacks and prizes after the race concludes.<br />
<br />
Since the Give Thanks 4-Miler is held nearly four weeks after the marathon, I thought it would be a great idea to set a mini-goal to finish it under 32 minutes, a sub-8:00 min./mi. pace. <a href="http://runnerwendy.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Wendy</a> and I shifted our focus from enduring over distance to withstanding a faster pace for a shorter time.<br />
<br />
<b>The Workouts</b><br />
Wendy gave me three key workouts, and I completed them as planned.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://connect.garmin.com/activity/632125841" target="_blank">Workout #1, Intervals.</a> I ran 10x300m at planned race pace with a 200m jog recovery.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://connect.garmin.com/activity/634742118" target="_blank">Workout #2, Mile Repeats.</a> The plan was to run 3x1600m at 8:30/8:15/8:00 with a three minute stopped recovery. I ran 8:20/8:01/7:42.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://connect.garmin.com/activity/637549926" target="_blank">Workout #3, Progression Run.</a> I planned to run six miles on the track with each mile 15 sec faster than the first, ending at race pace. I was forced to run elsewhere because the track was too icy. Wendy and I opted for Beech Grove Cemetery loops so she could jump in and out of the workout. My GPS went crazy, but Wendy's GPS and my effort level convinced us both that I hit the paces.<br />
<br />
<b>The Ankle</b><br />
I did the mile repeats in the snow, and the outside of my left ankle felt a little sore afterward. After the progression run, I could hardly walk. In fact, I started using crutches around my house to give it rest. The pain has decreased significantly over the last four days, and I'm no longer limping. Nevertheless, it's clear.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2gvQMSFLOdvnGpzE28ltGlrijiSJsjb_Gr6zCT-GrdaIyqcK35Q02R-RyWYMfUvpoZl9yPKBPnpF5vPnj8EZvkhVnYlkRNvkANEq9_j2z_Cipf9pK-CwxvYBkBtktL__KCzvUK5X688Ak/s1600/20141126-LaseredAnkle-02(Edited).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2gvQMSFLOdvnGpzE28ltGlrijiSJsjb_Gr6zCT-GrdaIyqcK35Q02R-RyWYMfUvpoZl9yPKBPnpF5vPnj8EZvkhVnYlkRNvkANEq9_j2z_Cipf9pK-CwxvYBkBtktL__KCzvUK5X688Ak/s1600/20141126-LaseredAnkle-02(Edited).jpg" height="200" width="171" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laser Treatment on Ailin' Ankle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I won't be running the Thanksgiving race tomorrow.<br />
<br />
Could I run it? Sure. However, there's no reason for me to push through pain and set myself back a week. I'm under doctors' care (diagnosis: really bad tendinitis), and none of them advise even jogging four miles let alone racing four miles. I'm disappointed that I won't be able to take part in the race, especially since I was poised to post the time I was hoping to achieve.<br />
<br />
Also, isn't it about right that I get hurt as soon as Wendy starts running after her summer and fall injury saga?<br />
<br />
<b>Thanksgiving</b><br />
However, in the true spirit of Thanksgiving, this situation makes me thankful for two things. First, this tendinitis graciously waited to rear its painful little head until <i>after</i> the marathon. Second, I should be back to running in two weeks, which is no time when you've been down for months with a femoral fracture.<br />
<br />
So, happy Thanksgiving to all my friends and family! May your "blues" be few and your thankfulness be much!Johttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635877192243288425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5754577446004131293.post-38184368447686715582014-11-16T17:01:00.001-08:002014-11-17T05:10:45.895-08:00Monumental Marathon 2014 - Race Report - I DID IT!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
The title says it all. I did it. I designed <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2014/03/im-racer-im-racing-i-race.html" target="_blank">an entire year of running</a> around one goal: running a marathon without stopping to walk, and doing so in a goal time that kept migrating northward (4:30, 4:22, 4:15, etc.). Here's the story of the day I did it.<br />
<br />
<i>(Note: If you'd just like to get to the gist of it, scroll to the heading <b>The Finish</b>, and read from there.)</i><br />
<br />
<b>Race Eve</b><br />
I spent the days leading up to the <a href="http://www.monumentalmarathon.com/" target="_blank">Indianapolis Monumental Marathon</a> literally counting the hours until the race start. I was tenaciously awaiting the moment I could slay the course <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2013/11/monumental-marathon-2013-race-report.html" target="_blank">that had slain me</a> in 2013. On Monumental Eve, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/cathy.k.hackney" target="_blank">Mom</a>, <a href="http://runnerwendy.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Wendy</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=6842053" target="_blank">Wes</a>, and I enjoyed the race atmosphere at the expo and at dinner. However, somewhere around 11 hours to go, while Mom and I were playing games of Crazy 8's in our room at the Westin, I quit counting the hours.<br />
<br />
The feelings in my gut made a shift from tenacious to tentative.<br />
<br />
I was worried about the distance. I was worried about my tummy. I was worried about my heels. I was worried about the weather, particularly the wind and it's accompanying 18°F chill. I didn't want anyone to know about my sudden anxieties, so I kept them to myself, except for occasionally saying things like, "Twenty-six miles is a long way," or, "Boy, it's going to be cold tomorrow."<br />
<br />
I slept about 45 minutes that night.<br />
<br />
<b>Race Morning</b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtsUC0YK0mJEgbTAOmcTGEfj9vnas2yamMKacLZcYoELCe8zwIuuxl1129pTEnNGp5_UotT0eD_kjqXRbnC3o6QnG_-Ja_XwsIpw7wvjLS1lUT8pyhnBDzl2XkDpOKHbswx9VeNWSTl_kW/s1600/20141101-MonumentalMarathon-017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtsUC0YK0mJEgbTAOmcTGEfj9vnas2yamMKacLZcYoELCe8zwIuuxl1129pTEnNGp5_UotT0eD_kjqXRbnC3o6QnG_-Ja_XwsIpw7wvjLS1lUT8pyhnBDzl2XkDpOKHbswx9VeNWSTl_kW/s1600/20141101-MonumentalMarathon-017.jpg" height="200" width="133" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before the start</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My little group grew as we met <a href="https://www.facebook.com/samantha.rightmyer" target="_blank">Sam</a>, who was running her first half, and my husband <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ed.cobb.16" target="_blank">Ed</a>, who was spectating. Those of us running dressed in many throwaway layers. Wendy kept reminding me of the plan, which was to start slow, and cut down the pace every six to seven miles.<br />
<br />
All of the sudden, we were outside walking toward the start. All of the sudden, Sam, Wes, and I were in the corral. All of the sudden, we heard the gun. All of the sudden, we were moving forward. I started my <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/road-id/id569352341" target="_blank">Road ID GPS app</a> on my phone so <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ken.hackney" target="_blank">Dad</a> could follow me at home.<br />
<br />
And then we crossed the start line.<br />
<br />
<b>Miles 1-7ish</b><br />
The first two miles were all space management because half and full runners were crowded together on Indy's downtown streets. Wes, who was charged by Wendy with task of preventing me from starting too fast, kept telling me to slow down. Our first two miles clicked off at 9:54 apiece. We lost information on the third mile because we ran under a long overpass, but it felt the same effort-wise. If you had told me then that those three miles would've been the slowest of my race, I'd have never believed you.<br />
<br />
Sam told us to go ahead in mile three due to some hip pain she was experiencing. Wes and I continued navigating Indy's downtown. My friend and former student, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/zachary.maudlin" target="_blank">Zach</a>, who was running the half, happened upon us at mile 4. Later, we hit the 10K mats at 1:00:01, at which point my phone began pinging with texts from Wendy that I did not consult, but I knew what they said, anyway.<br />
<br />
SLOW DOWN.<br />
<br />
I knew the trap of "going out too hard." I knew that too much now meant misery later. However, I also genuinely felt that I was being conservative, so I pressed onward.<br />
<br />
<b>Miles 7ish-14ish</b><br />
When the full marathon course splits from the half course, the "protection" of the downtown architecture is eliminated. Suddenly, we were vulnerable to the 15mph winds and 30mph gusts that were coming directly from the north. Wes let me draft, but I had difficulty managing the unpredictable gusts.<br />
<br />
On the ninth mile, something strange happened. My left leg went numb. I couldn't feel it moving nor hitting the ground. My muscles didn't know when to fire without sensation information, and I started to stumble a bit. It was the only time in the race Wes seemed concerned. I tried not to panic. After about a half mile, I regained sensation, and let out a big, "Whew!" That mile was my fourth slowest at 9:51.<br />
<br />
The subsequent miles into the cold wind were very discouraging. Also unsure if the leg numbness would come back, I started to feel very downcast. We crossed mile marker 10, and a spectator tried to give me his coat. <i>Last year I felt great at mile 10</i>, I thought, <i>and I passed out during mile 23. Does that mean I'll die sooner this year?</i><br />
<br />
Wes detected my distress. "Nothing is lost," he said. Let's just run the next three miles around 9:40, and see how we feel at the half."<br />
<br />
9:40, 9:40, 9:37. I hit the half mats in 2:06:51. A few meters later, we turned out of that Godforsaken wind, and everything changed.<br />
<br />
<b>Miles 14ish-19ish</b><br />
What I remember most about these miles is how good I felt. How <i>strong</i>. Wes presented a constant string of encouragement. "You're killing this... your form looks strong... Wendy will be here soon." (Wendy had planned to run the last six miles with us.) I looked at my watch at 15.5 mi. and told Wes, "Ha, I thought we were at 14.5," evidence of miles slipping away quicker than I could register them.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJb83F1kQowOpYU9HQbkWG6BWmGctJ5qOk0nBT_cVzv4MMHMScCoku4cqbr7evJFh7mR-8lwf7x25uyTmPk4MFe22R9GnSJT_k6IJVD3D7jDc_avC7V_cDIoWCwxJO6OlWir9F7BkQIIFl/s1600/20141101-MonumentalMarathon-100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJb83F1kQowOpYU9HQbkWG6BWmGctJ5qOk0nBT_cVzv4MMHMScCoku4cqbr7evJFh7mR-8lwf7x25uyTmPk4MFe22R9GnSJT_k6IJVD3D7jDc_avC7V_cDIoWCwxJO6OlWir9F7BkQIIFl/s1600/20141101-MonumentalMarathon-100.jpg" height="200" width="133" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Together again</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Our pace slid into the mid- and low-9:30s, and I didn't notice. We passed the eventual above-the-knee-amputee female marathon world record holder while she was setting the record. Then I beheld a fuzzy, mirage-like vision at the entrance to a park at the beginning of the 19th mile.<br />
<br />
Wendy.<br />
<i></i><br />
<i></i>
<i>WENDY!</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
"I am upset!" she yelled, but she was smiling. So was I. "How do you feel? What is happening?" I told her I felt wonderful, and Wes informed her of the details. She understood why we had be going "so fast." We hit the 30K timing mats in 3:00:06.<br />
<br />
<b>Miles 19ish-23ish</b><br />
Wendy told me the bits of news I had missed while running—race winners, details about friends in other races, what she and my family had been doing. When we hit mile marker 20, Wendy took a video to send to my family that was markedly different from last year's 20-mile video.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwYjar7pLrMKUH-SWtqcXd1pF5j-N01pah7I6eG-atR9AGPzZYX8uYfEQorRG5W1PeVm_VcQQi7FpJwaFpyzQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZOe0Zmfs1MrpL7R7dBqgUmqqfz_LLAUhWoBSD56bcTBoFDstnnztWmY5tB42nDKcnEgibrYwdaTkwHaUaXgWJHDJOawMNp1Zl8DPNUA9loA9iZW0zNd1EUdNvlZmo-kP_5QSPVCeWLFKB/s1600/20141101-MonumentalMarathon-096.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZOe0Zmfs1MrpL7R7dBqgUmqqfz_LLAUhWoBSD56bcTBoFDstnnztWmY5tB42nDKcnEgibrYwdaTkwHaUaXgWJHDJOawMNp1Zl8DPNUA9loA9iZW0zNd1EUdNvlZmo-kP_5QSPVCeWLFKB/s1600/20141101-MonumentalMarathon-096.jpg" height="200" width="133" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 20</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I started to become very conscious of all the people we were passing. Folks who had used too much energy on the first 75% of the race were beginning to slow. Occasionally, I would hear Wendy quietly ask Wes, "What was that split?" and I tried not to listen to the reply. When we hit mile marker 22, I looked at my watch and noted aloud that if I ran in at a 10:00 min./mi. pace, I would bag 4:15. "And you're going quite a bit faster than that," Wes replied.<br />
<br />
The race took a poignant turn in these miles, because I was covering all the places where I self-destructed last year. Here's where Wendy wiped my drool... here's where I started walking... here's where I passed out. Those places were hard to see, but they empowered me.<br />
<br />
NOT THIS YEAR.<br />
<br />
<b>Miles 23ish-26</b><br />
When we turned onto Meridian, I started to feel the wear and tear on my body, but I still felt strong. Every time I felt tired, I smiled. It reminded me that I <i>chose</i> to complete this race, that it was my most <i>ambitious </i>goal to date, and that I was <i>thrilled</i> to be here. I thought about Mom's and Ed's faces, waiting at the finish line, yearning for a better experience for me than last year's. I thought about my Dad at home, fretfully watching what Wendy called "my little dot" on his GPS screen, urging it to keep moving. And I kept moving.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 24</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Meridian is usually a drag because it's a long straightaway. However, I savored each step. I pointed out sites to Wendy. I enjoyed the wind at my back. I passed and passed and passed people. Our original plan was for me to push hard on the final mile, but I had run faster than planned during the entire race. At mile marker 25, I told Wendy, "I'm not interested in running any faster than this," which elicited a laugh.<br />
<br />
We turned off Meridian at 25.5 mi., and the spectators multiplied. I heard screams of support everywhere. I started to get extremely emotional because the climax of all my hard work and fun was about to be realized. My legs flew down New York Street, then onto West Street. One more turn. We passed mile marker 26 (9:24, faster after all). Wendy was right in my ear, talking about my family. "Your Dad," she said,"he's watching your little dot. He's on his feet. He's pacing. You're doing this, Jo. <i>You're doing this.</i>"<br />
<br />
<b>The Finish</b><br />
I turned onto Robert D. Orr Plaza, and was met with the most welcoming sites. Tons of people. The clock. The line!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steps from the finish</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
MOM!<br />
<br />
Mom, I'm going to do it! I'm doing it!<br />
<br />
Dad, I know you're watching my little dot!<br />
<br />
Ed, I know you're right on the line with your camera! Oh, what would I do without you?<br />
<br />
I heard Wes tell Wendy she would have to cross the line, that there was no way out because of the barricades. (She wasn't chipped, anyway.) I heard Wendy say to me, "Enjoy it. Remember it. You've earned it!"<br />
<br />
I crossed the line in 4:12:53.<br />
<br />
I did it.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUGQEO-QZ2StGAYXBQ2p-QQ_-w2nj1C09sD8pPzhtVdHpuiUwsdPDSigbrLMyNu19Hp2MHmVbV463xgjDa1khek43ONWAGgdB00IDWf3CAeLqzaQnHs8v4izie_7AzZwihXnWZxwskEVUU/s1600/20141101-MonumentalMarathon-060-Composite.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUGQEO-QZ2StGAYXBQ2p-QQ_-w2nj1C09sD8pPzhtVdHpuiUwsdPDSigbrLMyNu19Hp2MHmVbV463xgjDa1khek43ONWAGgdB00IDWf3CAeLqzaQnHs8v4izie_7AzZwihXnWZxwskEVUU/s1600/20141101-MonumentalMarathon-060-Composite.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finish scenes</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<b>The Aftermath</b><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlPRFEWVjUJg0dZGzY75OBTm3hPfHxplJKi-SiEWFT7TTklD9H4RYsXT6kEoUOiPBsI4Eoptyrb9MJ31rIEqVvAmwSb1xvXM-6bJ8qnZO0XnnVkGR6L-6Z-SAEF3YBlxFH_KN7KubJOy9U/s1600/20141101-MonumentalMarathon-061.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlPRFEWVjUJg0dZGzY75OBTm3hPfHxplJKi-SiEWFT7TTklD9H4RYsXT6kEoUOiPBsI4Eoptyrb9MJ31rIEqVvAmwSb1xvXM-6bJ8qnZO0XnnVkGR6L-6Z-SAEF3YBlxFH_KN7KubJOy9U/s1600/20141101-MonumentalMarathon-061.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Ed and Mom (hidden) afterward</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I did it. I was sore and tired, but strangely also comfortable and energetic. I couldn't wait to hug Ed and Mom, and call Dad. I walked in a dreamlike state through medals, pictures, goodies, and back to the hotel.<br />
<br />
Here are the <a href="http://onlineraceresults.com/event/view_event.php?event_id=14506" target="_blank">results</a> and <a href="http://connect.garmin.com/activity/624613614" target="_blank">stats 'n' such</a>. My splits were solid throughout the race. Here are the official timing splits:<br />
<br />
10K - 1:00:01, 9:40.81 overall pace<br />
Half - 2:06:51, 9:40.99 overall pace<br />
30K - 3:00:06, 9:40.97 overall pace<br />
Finish - 4:12:53, 9:39.12 overall pace<br />
<b><br /></b>
I am proud of that consistency, and of the negative splits (2:06:51/2:06:02). Also, I passed 749 people in the second half of the race—over 20% of the field.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
In the days since the race, I've wondered, "How did I do that?" but I've figured out the answer. I was extremely well prepared, my mental state (with one slight lapse), remained strong, and I have the best support system in the entire world.<br />
<br />
Thank you, family and friends, for your encouragement and your belief in me. This freshly minted 4:12 marathoner would not have near this fun or success without you.<br />
<br />
<b>More Pictures</b><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTq6-IdGMifFosKPPVuM-_6eEboPiCOA-SXischs3Waj7-vA3DFeN0vFWudO1CVxgIZD2iBnxs_Jcs-MJjqk4L76itD9wJvNBsXHUvO1iW1wlpaKaiOZUgWYxwvpmpCDy-U5EYMS_tX2Fv/s1600/20141101-MonumentalMarathon-019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTq6-IdGMifFosKPPVuM-_6eEboPiCOA-SXischs3Waj7-vA3DFeN0vFWudO1CVxgIZD2iBnxs_Jcs-MJjqk4L76itD9wJvNBsXHUvO1iW1wlpaKaiOZUgWYxwvpmpCDy-U5EYMS_tX2Fv/s1600/20141101-MonumentalMarathon-019.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Throwaway clothes</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgQn1tm2mfDt1zPl4lAkAIP_7-m6YCARLirFptJo6FTfSHOJPthsNisGvXbhBNY8YpAGZBoef0CI5Y6bZzM_OF_B1gIIezjukXIa3cR4zZijHeuMt36dTKXKFgfiOBo-BxLi0ov3NSXA5D/s1600/20141101-MonumentalMarathon-023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgQn1tm2mfDt1zPl4lAkAIP_7-m6YCARLirFptJo6FTfSHOJPthsNisGvXbhBNY8YpAGZBoef0CI5Y6bZzM_OF_B1gIIezjukXIa3cR4zZijHeuMt36dTKXKFgfiOBo-BxLi0ov3NSXA5D/s1600/20141101-MonumentalMarathon-023.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The start</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcVMt5diSHwdxrIbnmta2tyqvTPwIjEoGY8o8S7ipURVsgUjQvUmDXoEEGoVqwNy9SGodcpJIQ_WY-YjNLjI5DJqOhOM0AncIfASxcwKeq4jQTO9paO80ldmFySCAwkxddeQoY7S6xR7cR/s1600/20141101-MonumentalMarathon-106.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcVMt5diSHwdxrIbnmta2tyqvTPwIjEoGY8o8S7ipURVsgUjQvUmDXoEEGoVqwNy9SGodcpJIQ_WY-YjNLjI5DJqOhOM0AncIfASxcwKeq4jQTO9paO80ldmFySCAwkxddeQoY7S6xR7cR/s1600/20141101-MonumentalMarathon-106.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Near the finish</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKE7JqpYKMOEBwH1ohRG-954yC8J6xJpCqnetN6hzDANUaPn9w7DLaCa3aeHP91gybnfKuex3FRW5Uc55NXysYRgUywv4oAC1YmkJouEMOu2YfllIIutyEw7lQlFyHpShw6lfHPvVVzUYO/s1600/20141101-MonumentalMarathon-120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKE7JqpYKMOEBwH1ohRG-954yC8J6xJpCqnetN6hzDANUaPn9w7DLaCa3aeHP91gybnfKuex3FRW5Uc55NXysYRgUywv4oAC1YmkJouEMOu2YfllIIutyEw7lQlFyHpShw6lfHPvVVzUYO/s1600/20141101-MonumentalMarathon-120.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Wendy after the finish... Wes gave her his finish jacket.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHflkGFe5uO9onUPhhGWN6M1PLhqLcNiOP-xMYUt4VSIJjTiPZW82iUNCR4NFuFJUm20coEGgINrWMKttCC6IVkVcruLPrRh7tTZ78K1NwluMYF0UnNV1sNS9R1ySlNS-qa5O86iXQkemJ/s1600/20141101-MonumentalMarathon-121.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHflkGFe5uO9onUPhhGWN6M1PLhqLcNiOP-xMYUt4VSIJjTiPZW82iUNCR4NFuFJUm20coEGgINrWMKttCC6IVkVcruLPrRh7tTZ78K1NwluMYF0UnNV1sNS9R1ySlNS-qa5O86iXQkemJ/s1600/20141101-MonumentalMarathon-121.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Neat pic!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgviIIAjxclfHlPuZ7QaJ5XL8AbKKG2-pefndO_ObXihzH_lWXNg6RHb5U6RdBRrxYZskgJzurfZXtOHyzPEeUzW2hfCPW9jIshEMuWNGXPmxDWJUXfOCg8Uoy_OqFrpH1Oy96YSA7fAbV5/s1600/20141101-MonumentalMarathon-122.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgviIIAjxclfHlPuZ7QaJ5XL8AbKKG2-pefndO_ObXihzH_lWXNg6RHb5U6RdBRrxYZskgJzurfZXtOHyzPEeUzW2hfCPW9jIshEMuWNGXPmxDWJUXfOCg8Uoy_OqFrpH1Oy96YSA7fAbV5/s1600/20141101-MonumentalMarathon-122.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Official pic</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6ot0nWlbmvnsle9B4V_9R62PQXiWn3O2EG74lK8i0nUPf76AfLKp0BjQaIiT_s18ZMnPkAN7XTN3YFfXe_MWklc4adpMvpNQzeHp63IBfkpY3vWheY1gPbk4OU_dHWzCHdhak1FBatZpG/s1600/20141101-MonumentalMarathon-062.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6ot0nWlbmvnsle9B4V_9R62PQXiWn3O2EG74lK8i0nUPf76AfLKp0BjQaIiT_s18ZMnPkAN7XTN3YFfXe_MWklc4adpMvpNQzeHp63IBfkpY3vWheY1gPbk4OU_dHWzCHdhak1FBatZpG/s1600/20141101-MonumentalMarathon-062.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cheerleaders!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><br /></b>Johttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635877192243288425noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5754577446004131293.post-62577083018895757082014-10-29T16:25:00.002-07:002014-10-29T17:03:33.146-07:00The OneI've been staring at the blinking cursor for several minutes, wondering how to start this blog. A gal of many words, I don't often find myself at a loss for them. Nonetheless, here I am, stunned.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.monumentalmarathon.com/" target="_blank">Monumental</a> '14 training is done.<br />
<br />
AND I NAILED IT.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXAS2Xep8l9Glp1g2HtAA9DxawLqXxH2kNi93tHN6TXGD-PYYkWBqw4YnsG8behftBRKwQhl3ordvxtx7wr1HSADeQoJjQcFMtZ2Pmip8yYSN3g9CgoFqSOXX0SWTtYwpAkOBZylbe22yc/s1600/20141027-PullTabChart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXAS2Xep8l9Glp1g2HtAA9DxawLqXxH2kNi93tHN6TXGD-PYYkWBqw4YnsG8behftBRKwQhl3ordvxtx7wr1HSADeQoJjQcFMtZ2Pmip8yYSN3g9CgoFqSOXX0SWTtYwpAkOBZylbe22yc/s1600/20141027-PullTabChart.jpg" height="243" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The eerily empty <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2014/09/a-monumental-blog-entry-joanna-kai-cobb.html" target="_blank">Pull-Tab Chart</a>, just before my final training run</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Every run that was scheduled? I ran it.<br />
<br />
Every mileage that was planned? I reached it.<br />
<br />
Every pace that was set? I hit it.<br />
<br />
And I'm NOT INJURED.<br />
<br />
<b>Terrific Training</b><br />
I have never had a training cycle that wasn't at least temporarily derailed by injury, illness, or just plain malaise. Over four months and 500 miles of training, one would expect a missed or aborted run somewhere, but I have been incredibly fortunate... or stubborn, take your pick.<br />
<br />
Every run, ran. Every mileage, reached. Every pace, hit.<br />
<br />
I still can't believe it.<br />
<br />
For my Crohn's-y body to make it to a starting line healthy, doing all I've done in training, is truly remarkable. The training experience has me absolutely brimming with confidence and tenacity. I want that course. I <i>NEED</i> that course. I have <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2013/11/monumental-marathon-2013-race-report.html" target="_blank">a score to settle</a> with that course. Never have I been in a better position to perform.<br />
<br />
<b>Goal</b><br />
As <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2014/10/my-first-marathon.html" target="_blank">previously mentioned</a>,
my goal with this marathon is to run the whole thing without stopping
to walk. I originally wanted to finish sub-4:30, but I adjusted that
goal to sub-4:22 after a reassessment of my current fitness. Truthfully,
I want a sub-4:15, and also truthfully, I could probably run much
closer to 4:00. However, I don't want too much, too soon. I just need a
good, well run marathon.<br />
<br />
<b>The Plan, Man</b><br />
My plan is to start the race extremely conservatively, a 10:00 min./mi. pace. Every 6-7 miles, I will accelerate gently. I will take fuel every five miles. I will sip water or a sports drink at every water station. I will be paced by <a href="http://runnerwendy.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Wendy</a>'s brother, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=6842053" target="_blank">Wes</a>. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/samantha.rightmyer" target="_blank">Sam Rightmyer</a> will run with us for the first seven miles, until she takes the half marathon exit. Wendy will join us at mile marker 20.<br />
<br />
And then I'll run 6.2 more miles to the finish, where <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ed.cobb.16" target="_blank">Ed</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/cathy.k.hackney" target="_blank">Mom</a> (and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ken.hackney" target="_blank">Dad</a> in spirit, and maybe <a href="https://twitter.com/cobb_sam" target="_blank">Sam Cobb</a>), will be waiting for me. Collapsing into Ed's arms will be a splendid reward.<br />
<br />
Now in taper ("Tapertober" just doesn't have the same ring as <a href="http://joannakaicobb.blogspot.com/2014/04/tapril.html" target="_blank">"Tapril"</a>), I am taking every precaution to make sure my body is primed for the purpose. I'm hydrating. I'm monitoring sodium intake. I'm eating Vitamin C tabs. I'm staying off my feet. I'm visualizing success. I'm even doing the silly things like knocking on wood, avoiding walks under ladders, and calling shooting stars "good omens."<br />
<br />
I've done the work, I've attended to the details, I've memorized the plan. All I must do is execute the plan that will carry me the last 26.2 miles of this story.<br />
<br />
This is the one.<br />
<br />
This is finally the one.<br />
<br />
****<br />
<i>Follow me and other Monumental participants on Nov. 1 </i><i>through <a href="http://tracking.endresultcompany.com/2014/imm/index.php" target="_blank">Athlete Tracking</a>.</i>Johttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635877192243288425noreply@blogger.com0