STRANGE WEATHER FOR THE CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY

photo credit: public domain

3.14 mile jog this morning in 48 degree temps feels a little more like December.  That is until I ran upon a blooming Forsythia.  For more than a week we've had temperatures in the low to mid 70's and when that happens we are again reminded how nature rules nurture unless human engineering provides an artificial environment designed to fool Mother Nature. 

Discovery of gifts in nature unfolding along the way is definitely a bonus for being determined enough to demand the body move faster than it usually does.  I've always delighted in nature's gifts and as I grow into the middle age years, nature's great bounty and mystery is even more appreciated.

I hope you're enjoying it as well. 

7 DAYS TILL CHRISTMAS AND COLD ENOUGH TO SNOW!

"LET IT SNOW! LET IT SNOW"....

WISHFUL THINKIING - Last year's snow

 Overcast blue/gray clouds, 36 degrees this morning at 11:30 am...but no SNOW!  Where is the snow? 

YAY! IT'S DECEMBER, BREAK OUT THE CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS!!!

2.85 MILES this morning and working on 4!  Elated to be back in the groove even though it was raining for most of the time out. The turkey, dressing, cheesecake, etc is all behind me now. And, that's not easy pulling up hills either.

shoes by  BROOKS

This morning's jog in the rain brought thoughts and prayers of thanksgiving for those who serve our country and often are required to be in situations so much more demanding, difficult, and dangerous to protect and serve us all here in the USA. My little jog in the cool rain, at first, seemed rough this morning. Then reality brought to mind and appreciation your greater service and dedication.

Thank you all and everyone! I hope your Thanksgiving was generous, blessed, and your Christmas Holidays will be as well!
  
Vicki

MOUNTAIN VIEW - STOP AND ENJOY IT - HAPPY THANKSGIVING

photo credit@vickilsullivan 2015

Beautiful view, isn't it?  Jogging this morning, thankful my knees seems to be holding up well as they brought me up a small hill, I stopped to take this picture. The road looked peacefully empty of traffic. And, peace and solitude is what getting out there is mostly about. I wanted to capture the moment of the empty road with the distant mountain view standing stately as it was just at that moment.  I wondered if those folks who pass along the road ever look up, take time to notice the view, and appreciate it. 

 Life will pull us along at its' pace unless we ourselves from take a break from the hectic pace of it and make time for the truly important parts of life.

Getting centered within our own person and taking one's life where one wants to go, rather than following others in just plainly unconscious  living, like a sleepwalker going through a mundane existence, is critical to living a self-fulfilled life.  Self-fulfilling meaning, "to realize one's deepest desires and capacities through one's own efforts by fully using ones' own abilities and talents.

Today, for so many in our culture, "self-fulfilling life" means following the social crowd on twitter, facebook, texting, or other social media.  The enjoyment of conversation is becoming extinct when groups sit with heads hung over looking down. For me "self-fulfilling life" means face-to-face building upon peaceful and loving inter-dependent relationships  with family and friends characterized by mutual support and enjoyment. And, yes,  even when the goal requires hard and difficult personal work. 

Interpersonal work is exactly like being out on a run and struggling uphills and downhills until one completes the task! Getting through both is rewarding and fulfilling.

I hope your Thanksgiving will be characterized by warmth, loving family, good friends, and exercise! Well, of course, delicious turkey on the table or your traditional favorite meal.

 Happy Thanksgiving! 

THANKSGIVING AND RUNNING - LIKE THE GINGKO ARE PREHISTORIC TREES

photo credit@ vickilsullivan 2015

These golden leaves were wind strewn along the roadside this morning.  They're from a Gingko tree. The Gingko tree has ancient origins in China recorded to be more than 270 million years ago. The photo credit below is a free domain wikipedia photo showing a Gingko leaf fossil from the Eocene  period dating back 56 to 33.9 million years ago.  The leaf produced this year and the one fossilized millions of years before look identical. 

 Gingko Bilboa: the only living species in the division Ginkgophyta, all others being extinct.

I carefully jogged a little over 2 miles this morning past 3 or 4 of these golden trees before gathering the 2 leaves.   I am so gladdened to be back enjoying the cool autumn mornings!  What a tremendous way to celebrate nature, especially during those times when seasonal changes bring such differences to the outdoors. My thoughts naturally ran to being thankful for such abundant beauty. 

Thanksgiving and running being prehistoric trees like the gingko is an apt metaphor because such activity brings a natural euphoric (confident wellbeing) experience. The body is challenged to work as it was created to work.  When challenged over time with good conditioning, it responds and gratitude naturally follows! Surely, such has been going on with humans since the beginning of the world. 

I hope you will get out there to enjoy an exercise our human ancients participated in and discover the all the wellness benefits.

 

Happy Thanksgiving!  

Vicki

RUNNING THROUGH THE PAIN

Running through whatever life brings into the path.  For me, since August this has meant learning how to live with and recover from my first bout of Runner's Knee.

Photo credit: Public Domain@wikipedia.com

I've been reading a lot of articles like this, and this, and this.  Doctors visits x2 and finally after months of coping, I think it's getting better.  There's lots already written on the subject if you happen to be interested. My only thought is it might have been helpful to have been aware of the problem before I experienced it myself.

I've run through pain before.  In my first years of running most runs were with a running partner. We ran through my Dad's death, and her Mom's death. Those weren't easy running days but running with a friend in Christ made all the difference in helping us get through the pain of exchanging earthly ties for heavenly ones. And, like the runner's in the article linking in the first line of this blog post, I've found myself caught in a few storms thankfully to arrive safely back to shelter from the storm.

And, laced up my BROOKS  and back jogging this morning! Light dawned on me while doing the first 2.14 miles in several months - that being; I've never before been in a length of time jogging or running without also doing cross-training to strengthen supporting muscles.  (linked articles speak well to this)

 

BROOKS

The sunshine was a glory this morning! The temperature was cool, fresh, just right for jogging after the rain.  I hope writing about this latest "running through," might help you along the your journey running the road as well!

Happy Running!

BROOKS RUNNING SHOES - TAKE 2

JUST IN TIME FOR YOUR FAVORITE HALLOWEEN RUN

RUNNER'S WORLD 2015 Fall Shoe Guide is out and Brooks Running shoes have taken 2 places in the top 5!  Great job Brooks!

 There are many new models, styles, and redo's in the Fall 2015 guide! And, BROOKS leads the way. Taking the coveted #1 Editor's Choice Award is Brooks Ghost 8, selling at a suggested price of $120-$130, with enhanced, engineered comfort and stability! Looks great, too! I love the splashy colors as much as the newly engineered mesh top. I've never worn the Ghost model but Jonathan Beverly and Martyn Shorten, PHD describe the changes as, "mesh that is supportive in some areas and softer in others, making this stable and cushioned shoe more comfy."

Brooks Ghost weighs in at 8.8 ounces and it is specifically designed for medium to to high arches.  One of my favorite Brooks features in the sole treading.  The Ghost tread features a segmented tread to give a soft but stable foot landing every time. 

INTRODUCING: THE GHOST 8

Taking Best Update and 3rd Place is my all time favorite for the past many years, (too many to speak of),  is Brooks Glycerin 13.  The Glycerin has guarded my steps now through all those years.  From the very first in-store try on, my feet and I knew these shoes were my best choice.  And, though the style has evolved and improved it still remains my shoe of preference. 

The Glycerin 13 hails in with upgrades in tread, flexibility, and continued reliability.  Runner's World 2015 Fall Shoe Guide authors describe it very well by stating, "The Glycerin 13 is a shoe that coddles while delivering high performance."  I like that feature. Sort of reminds me of the  Goldilocks  Locks and 3 Bears Story.  When the little bear found the right size rocking chair,  he said it was, "Just right." Not that I am bearish, but that's how I feel about the Glycerin! They're just right. 

Introducing: The Glycerin 13

Brooks   describes what I characterize as, "just right fit, as: "Underfoot, the Super DNA midsole provides 25% more cushion than our regular DNA for the ultimate in soft rides. Ideal Pressure Zones in the outsole optimize disperse impact away from the body and the rounded heel helps keep your body in its Ideal alignment.  Great description of a shoe fit to provide the best care for those serious about running! Pricing out at $150 for these at 9.3 ounces and worth every dollar.  

BROOKS OCTOBER FEST OFFER - ends October 17.  Check it out if you love socks!

SEPTEMBER & SERENDIPITY

A happy occurance, i.e. serendipity, - One of the very, most delightful happenings for runners is to be running along and happen upon a treasured moment - for me it is usually discovering the newly hatched robin's eggs  along the pathway in spring or suddenly passing a glorious redbird chirping quite unaffectedly while perched on a roadside fence or branch.

Photo Attribution: Cardinalis cardinalis -Columbus, Ohio, USA-male-8 (1)" by Stephen Wolfe from Columbus, OH, USA - Northern Cardinal IUploaded by Snowmanradio. Licensed under CC BY 2.0 via Commons - https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Cardinalis_cardinalis_-Columbus,_Ohio,_USA-male-8_(1).jpg#/media/File:Cardinalis_cardinalis_-Columbus,_Ohio,_USA-male-8_(1).jpg

ser·en·dip·i·ty

ˌserənˈdipədē/

noun

noun: serendipity; plural noun: serendipities

the occurrence and development of events by chance in a happy or beneficial way.

"a fortunate stroke of serendipity"

synonyms:

(happy) chance, (happy) accident

THE WEATHER? IT'S A CHANGING

YEA! Temperatures are cooling, somewhat anyway! September is waiting until tomorrow. August bows to the new month as September brings us great running days to get out and take in all Mother Nature's natural beauty.  It's the inspiring, refreshing, and renewing pathway to better health.

photo credit: vickilsullivan

Runner's World
Runner's World continues to bring really interesting and helpful articles on every aspect of the sport!

 Enjoy!

FOLLOW UP ON BROOKS BRAND LOYALTY VERSUS USATF WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP REGS

My hat's off to you Nicholas Symmonds! You weren't grandstanding at all! You were standing your ground when refusing to sign the USATF's, "Statement of Conditions."   I admire the heck out of that and support such acts at anytime.  Today's runnersworld.com article by Peter Gambaccini takes a good look at how Nicholas is challenging some confusing language in USATF's (United States of America's Track and Field) regulations in this years World Championships in Beijing.

Great job and all the best in getting the rules clarified for  future World Championship competitors.

In his second article today on the subject, Mr. Gambaccini announced Clayton Murphy, scheduled to begin his 3rd year  at the University of Akron has accepted the invitation to represent the USA in the 800.  Congratulations Clayton! Go fot it!

BROOK'S BRAND LOYALITY OR WHAT?

I'm baffled. Nick Symmonds, America's fastest 800 meter sprinter, will not represent Team USA at the IAAF World Championships in Beijing.

 The CBS news report states he is conflicted due to receiving his sponsor support from the running shoe and apparel firm, Brooks. I'm wondering if he consulted Brooks before choosing to leave the team. His decision doesn't make sense to me.

 I think he is grandstanding.

HOKA ONE ONE - THE NEW TOP LINE BRAND

HOKA: A Buyer's Guide Best Ride First Place Choice 


BONDI 4

 

Another beautiful morning out there this morning - I jogged out my 3.8 miles in my new HOKA BONDI 4's.  I've been jogging and walking in HOKA's now for about 6 weeks.  And, for me that's long enough to test out their advertising claims. Every time I put these shoes on I am again impressed by the solid feel of my feet being in shoes characterized by 9 ounces of balance, comfort, and overall foot support.

Here's how HOKA describes them:

"With an all-EVA midsole and Early-Stage Meta-Rocker, the BONDI 4 provides a smooth, cushioned ride that is revered for its balance and simplicity. While primarily designed for running on hard, man-made surfaces, the Bondi 4 has just enough traction to play on light trails." The Early-Stage Meta-Rocker is described as "midsole geometry-sculpting with the transition zone placed behind the metatarsal heads. Designed to encourage a smoother ride, and a faster transition to the forefoot."

Fleetfeet Knoxville carries them (ask for them at your local store). Fleetfeet describes the meta-rocker thusly - "...a slight upward curve of the outsole and midsole combined with a stiff forefoot." 

Given all the technology of today's running shoes, HOKA, without a doubt, is leading the pack as the new top line brand of shoes offering a truly unique, running shoe geometry.  And, all the promised benefits are there in the actual shoe. The shoes are lighter than other brands and they provide a comfort above and beyond any shoe I've ever encountered.

My Experience In New Style Running Shoes

They feel unbelievably solid during the foot strike! I was concerned when first putting them on because I didn't have confidence in the sensation of my feet being encased in shoes cut a little higher on the foot and higher off the ground. Once after a few wearings of getting my balance in them, I haven't experienced that again. I have high praises for the shoe engineering!

So far, I have  2 recommendations for improvement - I would like the shoe strings to be longer ( as do most runners, I double knot mine). And, secondly, see those little white module treads? Within 2 weeks of trail and road jogging the small, side cell pads were almost totally worn away.  I'm not really sure the reason for the change in tread composition.  I personally would prefer the same treads for the whole tread system.

Lastly to close this blog post out here's another absolutely, excellent HOKA feature. Those nice loops on the shoe back, they are a true convenience and greatly help in settling nicely into the shoes!

MY FAVORITE  HOKA BOAST 

"HOKA ONE ONE is a shoe for all runners, from joggers to elite athletes looking to improve their performance. We continue our pace, leading the running revolution. Please join us on our journey and keep running."

HOKA ONE ONE'S COLORADO BEGINNINGS LEAD TO A DECKER BUY-OUT

Back out in the HOKA's this morning for a 4 mile jog around the Warren County, TN Civic Center trail.  The weather certainly cooperated with morning temperatures the low 70's with fog and clouds.

Ok, so if you've read my previous blogs, you know my serious running for exercise began in 1984, a year after my last child was born.  I had a big work load at home, a part-time job, and was finishing a 4 year college degree.  Did I mention, I was also overweight and always tired? Running and aerobics changed the overweight and tired part.

I identified my favorite fitting running shoe brands early on as BROOK'S, and NIKE and haven't deterred from that discovery or added other brands since establishing what was best for me. And, in the past I've only gone to NIKE if a pair of BROOK'S were not available.

Astonishingly, the HOKA's are fast finding a place in my permanent collection. New running brands don't easily happen. The market is highly competitive and the technology to make a great running shoe is very expensive to fund.

 In the beginning....this is their story.  

INRTODUCING THE HOKA ONE ONE STORY  

From foundlings with Salomon to securing a Decker buy-out in 2013, two top, ultra-level mountain runner fellows and a pair of shoes entered the competitive shoe market world-wide running community. Well, that was about 5 years ago and the shock waves are reverberating throughout road races across the United States and Europe.  HOKA's valuted onto the scene and have continued to thrive by gaining runner respect and therefore becoming an established brand in the running community.

Of course, two exceptional guys and a pair of new shoes weren't alone in the quest to capture the maximalist  running shoe market.  Certainly there are many who helped along the way.  And, certainly the most important quality in the process is committment to excellence and belief in the product.  HOKA, now produced under the DECKER brand companies, holds to the highest standards in product development, and customer support.

Company mission and values have to be and are the foundation of any great and lasting company.  That foundation and the belief in the product are changing the running shoe market to offer runners, joggers, and walker shoes designed to promote health and well being.

I'm delighted to be wearing HOKA's and in my efforts to stay healthy while also giving my 2 cents worth in a product review which may help others do the same.  The linked words and phrases in this blog will take you to more information on HOKA's. I hope you check them out and enjoy reading  what's happening in the HOKA running shoe world!

There is more to this story and a few recommendations I have to offer in next week's blog.

Stay Tuned and Happy Running!

Vicki

WHAT'S A HOKA? FOLKS, THESE ARE THE REAL HOKA ONE ONE'S

FORMALLY PRESENTING AND WELCOMING:

HOKA ONE ONE

photo credit: vickilsullivan

MEET MY VERY OWN HOKA'S

These aren't my daughter's HOKA'S. These aren't my sister's HOKA'S.  There aren't YOUR HOKA'S.  These are MY VERY OWN HOKA'S!  CAN YOU TELL,  I LOVE THEM!

HOKA ONE ONE'S are taking flight in the USA!  How do I know that?  Here's the scoop on that.  

On Tuesday I flew from Virginia Beach, Virginia  to Nashville, Tennessee via Delta Airlines.  The flight out of Norfolk was delayed.  In fact, we boarded then were unboarded then reboarded; all tolled taking an hour and causing missed connections. The result being I spent several hours in Detroit International waiting on the next flight out.  That's wasn't so bad even though I was grumping every moment, (sorry folks). See, my 15th grandchild,  7th granddaughter, was just born and leaving wasn't so easy. Guess, I wanted to be back in my own place as soon as possible to be near 7 other fabulous, wonderful grandchildren to help ease the pain of leaving a three day old and her Mom following childbirth.  

My HOKA'S arrived in time to parade out along the pathway for July 4th festivities! THANKS HOKA! 

photo credit: vickilsullivan

LynnHaven Rd Trail

 For the flight, I packed my HOKA'S and chose my Brook's glycerin's to wear home.  So love choices! There, sitting at the gate waiting to board,  and about 30 minutes before boarding, appeared a demure, little woman with purple HOKA'S looking for a seat and selecting one at the other end of my row, she plopped herself right down. Sorry for the run-on sentence!  Her in her HOKA'S on one end and me in my BROOK'S on the other end.  Well, that's a matched set considering this blog, now isn't it? 

I think she was wearing the purple VANQUISH edition.  It was difficult to tell and I thought at first they must be a look-alike imitation of the HOKA.  I couldn't see the HOKA LOGO well until when after we landed in Nashville and she again appeared at the baggage area. I was determined to discover if they were the real deal so got close finally to again search for the logo.  It was there along with the cute loop on the shoe back! They were authentic HOKA'S only the logo is almost lost on the dark purple shoe color. 

THE GIST OF ALL THIS? (i.e.: lesson learned)

There is no shoe like a HOKA SHOE!  And, no imitation shoe can compare with any real, running shoe. HOKA engineer's it's shoes taking every opportunity to design them to benefit runners walkers, and joggers.  OPPORTUNITY - I've just been given, (shoes provided for blogging about HOKA), the opportunity to speak for HOKA and will be writing several blogs to introduce them to my readers.  

My first recommendation?  Look for the real HOKA shoes.  There is no substitution for a HOKA and imitations can't possibly provide the balance, integrity, and support required for running the distance safely!  

STAY TUNED AND HAVE FUN OUT THERE! 

Yours Truly,

Vicki

BROOK'S MEN'S GLYCERIN 12'S ON SALE!

My son-in-law just found these Glycerin 12's on sale at a great price - says  Brooks' is his choice of running shoe. And, I'm very happy so see him running in style and comfort!  

Happy Birthday on July 4th Sean! 

And, thanks  again Brook's!  

photo credit: vickilsullivan

REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR HEALTH - THE HEALTHY WAY

doTerra

HOKA'S - WHAT THE HECK IS A HOKA?

"HOKA's? What the heck is a HOKA?"  That's what I thought but didn't say when I first heard of them.  OK! This is HOKA.   HOKA how to video! This is so much fun!

My daughter's HOKA's - Mine are on their way.  Over the top!  WOWS!

RUNNING BENEFITS- WHY DO IT? IT'S BODACIOUS!

Magnolia virginiana - 

Common Name: Sweet Bay Magnolia

Soon after beginning running, many runner's will agree, they learn discovery along the way in the form of a beautiful flower, the angle of this or that against the sky, the foggy mist covering and sweet presence of a red bird just alighting somewhere along the path goes far into benefiting the whole experience.  

This morning I discovered gracious little blue flowers along the roadside,  the beauty of carefully tended lawns and gardens, and finally saw the Sweet Bay Magnolia had blossomed into  it's summer display. It was a most welcome sight and fragrance after having just passed a stinky, dead groundhog a few blocks previous. 

Yes, there are always those yucky whatever's along the way to bring runners' back to the realities of life.  Beyond the physical health benefits of running and the very real pleasures within which the experience makes possible; runner's soon realize running depicts life in all it's aspects. The exercise is demanding but along the way little helps arrive to ease and distract from muscles tired and tried with the work of moving forward up hills and down. 

It's all worth it though. I run because every mile won is worth the effort regardless of the stinkies along the way.  : ) +

: )+ Running Help: Select a point in front and run to it.  Then select the next and run to it.  Etc.

ITS NATIONAL RUNNING DAY!

SUN"S UP! GET OUT THERE AND ENJOY THE DAY! 

logo courtesy of runningday.org

RUNNING - BELIEVE IT: ALL RUNNING SHOES ARE NOT ALIKE

Brook's Pure Cadence, Glycerin, & Trance

Running is rarely an easy task; or so it seems, past age 5.  When first beginning running after the birth of my 4th daughter, I fatigued out at  a 2 mile plateau.  Then my marathon, running sister informed me I had to get past the two mile marker and all would be better.  I pushed past; the endorphins kicked in getting me to my max milage, depending upon the day, of between 6-12 miles. 

The next hill, I learned,  was getting shoes designed for everyday running workouts. Never fool yourself, all running shoes are not alike! That's when I settled into Brook's; though not before going through the whole pack of advertized brands. Through the years, I've continued to check out running shoes to discover if maybe I needed to change brands.  The only brand I've seen near to comparing with Brook's is the HOKA ONE ONE. Stay tuned!

 Now, once again, I find myself struggling to get past 3. My speed is way off, and, I like my shoes to feel good each and every step of the way. Barefoot, for me, is not in the future. Thank you very much.

Runner's World Shoe Myth Advise.

Runner's World's above linked article recently published by Jonathan Beverly is  a fairly comprehensive look at the how, why, and what of running shoe choices. Thanks Jonathan! I hope it gets a wide reading.

Happy Running! Stay Safe!

THE RACE IS NOW ON TO MEMORIAL DAY

Awe-inspiring morning this morning and every morning this week jogging along the basin of the Upper Cumberland Plateau.  Beginning at about 55 degrees with no fog and bright sunshine, the day celebrated itself with a little misting and cloud broken by scattered sunshine.  My 3 mile jog was pure joy.  

Warren County, TN - photo credit: vicki sullivan

The 4th Annual Viola Valley Half-Marathon is now in the past tense! It was a PERFECT running day with slight rain to cool the runners while they made it up the rolling hills and down into the valleys of the 13 mile plus trek through those luscious Viola farmlands. Those fields were indeed white unto harvest after being so well prepared in the first planting of the year.

If you missed this year's race, there's 2016!  Come on along - The door's always open to Viola visitors.

This week Warren County, TN and the City of McMinnville  are prepared to take a break to look backward and celebrate those who've died in the service of our country.

MEMORIAL DAY RACES

image credit@Wikipedia - public domain

 Memorial Day events will spread across the county as celebrants take the time to gather in homes, church grounds, and parks to picnic and enjoy the day remembering those gave their lives in services of our armed forces.

Thank you to all who gave their all in the service of our country!  And to those currently serving, our prayers and heartfelt appreciation!

Happy Running and Happy Memorial Day!

THIS SATURDAY - VIOLA VALLEY HALF-MARATHON

Viola, TN is again delighted to host the 4th Annual Viola Valley Half-Marathon this Saturday, May 16, 2015.

The fun begins at 7 a.m. just opposite  the Viola Town Hall in the Town Square - Get out there early parking fills up fast!

Photo: Brian Stansberry / Creative Commons

BEAUTIFUL VIOLA VALLEY BED AND BREAKFAST

SUMMER FUN STARTS WITH RUNS IN THE SUN - GET OUTTA THE SHADE!

Fitness begins at conception and continues throughout the lifespan.   Certainly research has shown us that at least!  In fact, everything runners/joggers/walkers need to know was learned in the womb.

Now that's a perfect kick-in to this Sunday's , May 10th, 2015 Mother's Day . 

photo credits@Wikipedia Public Domain

All of us Mother's who have carried babies in the womb know babies first begin to run, jog, walk, and kick while in the womb.  : - )   Little steps, maybe, but it all begins there.  Happy Mother's Day everyone! Have a great day!

 Here in Middle Tennessee the warm days of spring and summer's advent are upon us. Temperatures are in the 50 early in the morning and reaching up to the 80's already!  Additionally, there is an excellent crop of runners/joggers/walkers out and about the area enjoying the beauty which abounds in Warren County TN many of whom will be participating in the Viola Valley Half.  I was by there the other day on the way to a granddaughter's soccer game.  Check it out if you like - the fields look good, (well, understatement - they're truly a glory to behold!)  and the wide country road is waiting.

Many start their running days right here at McMinnville Civic Center -

photo credit@vicki l. sullivan 5/8/2015

Stuff you ought to know.

Top Ten Running Surfaces And WHY

BTW:  I brake for schoolbuses. Being hit by a car is one option but a schoolbus?  You gotta be kidding.  It is really incredible how many people driving vehicles are determined to make the runner pass before them when they are turning or entering the road.  Really folks, here's what goes through a runner's mind in such a situation or any like situations. "Are they really going to stay stopped? Are they seeing me?  Will their foot accidently slip off the brake just as I am passing in front of them? Gad, ok they're waving me past.  Maybe this time I'll let that go and go on."  

The incidents of runners, etc. the like being hit, side swiped, bumped, and what not is just too high.  And given the pedesterian has the right-of-way, drivers just most often are the most likely not to pay attention.  So when I wave you on, PEOPLE go on. I'm watching the road.  You can believe I am watching the road.

SHOUT OUT TO MY 1ST GRANDSON'S DIVISION

 

CONGRATULATIONS 

My oldest grandson's Army Ranger company was just chosen on April 17 to lead the whole Division run!  You Rangers ROCK!

ON TO BOSTON - THEN SUMMER!

Uh, have I said, "I'm not a marathoner?"  That's right.  I'll leave that to the more determined runners and cheer for you from the sidelines.  Boston is just around the weekend corner now.  Certainly the runners and fans are pouring into the Boston area. 

Photo@Wikipedia Public Domain - 1910 Boston Winner

Have fun at the Boston! We're pulling for you in Tennessee! 

Take a look at the above runner who won the Boston in 1910.  His health is evident!  No skinny, starving appearance at all! Really, I recognize less weight may = quicker times for the race. But, that isn't actually about talent.  I think, it's more about endurance than running excellence and talent.  Those runners who look pained and suffering don't at all, in my opinion, add to the sport.  And, it makes me wonder if they race for the money or for the love of running.

I think about the great Scottish runner, Eric Liddell who experienced the "pleasure of God within him when he was running. His was a God-given talent used for the glory of God.  The story is awesome.  Be sure to see the movie! It's one of the few running classics.

Weather is totally PERFECT now for running in Middle Tennessee - cool morning, warm afternoons! Can't beat that.  Hope you get out there and enjoy it!

SELFIES

 photo credit@vicki l. sullivan - Brooks 'N English Daisies

Just what do "selfies" have to do with Brooks? Uh, maybe more than you might think.  Running is all about selfies.  It's the time a person takes to get in contact with the self, the body, mind, and spirit.  Now if that's not a selfie, I don't know what one is.  Only as a runner, past or present, learning how to manage yourself while running takes time, consideration, and above all, patience to learn how your body moves best.

 Good health care will develop a healthy lifestyle conducive to training the heart, mind, and muscles to move toward strengthening the systems natural immunity to all sorts of negative approaches: be they physical, mental, social, cultural, or environmental.  That being said, once a person can get past being distracted by those negatives, the run will really become enjoyable and a very best friend to any athletic exercise.  Runner's call the process, "tuning into your body."  Listen to your heart beat, and your breath, and maintain your thought processes and you're one your way to enjoying the best selfie life offers; your maturing, healthy inner self and person.

Today INFOMERCIAL - MAINTAINING RUNNING HEALTH THROUGH OUT THE LIFESPAN
(a runningtimes.com article)

REALLY - IT IS SPRING - SUNNY - 39 DEGREES AND CLIMBING TO 48 DEGREES

Really, it is spring. At least that's what we're told,  right?  Nevermind it's 39 degrees at 9:28 a.m. and predicted to be 27 degrees tonight.  Cover those bedding plants; there's a freeze warning for the valley.  Nevertheless, look in the picture I just took, there you can see for yourself; the Bradford Pears are blooming and the Redbud trees are budding. 

As I write this blog posting my 3rd daughter and her BFF running buddy are about to arrive at the bottom of a 2mile  uphill run. That's  running 2 miles straight up and then, of course, the 2 miles down.  Beautiful day to run and a beautiful area to run through - FLOWERING  nursery stock with blooming this and that all over.  GLORIOUS!

In the springtime, runners runs are spendor heightened by passing scenes of new life bursting all around. But, a 2mile uphill grade of at about a 35 degree angle  - Hey, It's marathoners training.  Did I say, "I don't do marathons?" My 3 hills this morning were considerably shorter and not near so high.

I admit to thinking about a half marathon this summer though...Hmmmmm...maybe i will try it.


Happy Running!

A GLIMPSE OF SPRING AND INTRO TO THE MAGNIFICENT HOKA ONEONE

YEA! Weather is proving true to predictions of Spring!  And, actually in some places the snow is melting.  Anyone who has read this blog is aware of my preference for Brook's running gear.  I make no apology for being partial to Brook's.  The company focuses on their product! HOWEVER...

Ok, running lovers, there is HOKA! HOKA  made an entrance in my running life when this past week I convinced my daughter she needed new running shoes.  Here's my daughter -  

 

Christian Taylor

 Christian recently went through back surgery and needed a shoe with excellent support, cushioning, and balance.  Then off to find them, the shoes,  at the local Naperville Running Co.   Christian explained her situation and her Mom's concerns to the excellent running staff assisting her. She tried on several pair. And, yes Brook's were included. Then the HOKA's appeared on the scene and the look on her face told it all.  SHEER COMFORT!  The look of relief and comfort appearing in her face as she stood and walked about would have melted all the snow in Boston. 


Read all about HOKA ONEONE - 
HOKA SOURCE -

THE HOKA'S  

 

To be honest, I've seen the shoes advertised but seriously doubted they might do any good other than be bouncy. And, honestly, bouncy running shoes do not appeal to my sense of safety.  I mean, in my way of thinking,  Tigger  bounces and runners run.    I have no desire to go bounding about the roadside like a Tigger.  Nor do I have any desire to see my daughters do so.

To my amazement as we did several (like 16 rounds), on the Wheaton Sports Center  track, they were as stable as any snuggly, centered cushioned shoe could be.  They didn't rock ' n roll, OR bounce at all.  New Brook's do the same though the cushion isn't as high.  I'm wondering how and/or if Brook's will produce one of these? 

In fact, they did a great job in helping her retain her balance and keep walking without pain.  We did 2 miles with no problem.  

The shoes, with Christian in them, did just as well outside.  I'm all for them.  Thank you, HOKA!

 

12 DEGREES ON A SNOW-ICE DAY

TO RUN OR NOT TO RUN?

Seems that's always the question when the weather drops to freezing  and below.  I've always been amazed by folks who would spend lots to go on a vacation spree to find snow and then refuse to go out in it when it is in their own environment.

Seems it didn't matter much to my parents if it was ice or snow; we were bundled up with hats, heavy coats, gloves, and boots and instructed to, "Go out and play."  And, we did. Guess that's why when Mother Nature gives me ice and snow - even a little rain (without lightening, please), I still grouse about some then get on the gear and get outside. 

These days I have to set my own vegetable soup to cooking (just like Mama used to do); though everything else in pretty much the same. These  days I don't move quite as fast and when Mama was doing the cooking; though everything else is pretty much the same.

And, out I went this morning...."crunch, crunch, crunch," I went enjoying the sound of my feet in the snow.

ICE OUT IN MIDDLE TENNESSEE!

U

UHG!  BE WARNED!  NOT A GOOD RUNNING OUTSIDE DAY! 

Huh, and I considered wind and rain were the worst running days. NOT SO!  Ice and rain AND wind have now replaced that thought.  So to the mall to do concentric circles.  Oh, NO! That may not be a good idea either.  The streets are also ice slides - especially in hilly McMinnville.

oh, what to do? what to do?

I know.  I'LL MAKE SOUP!  

INTRODUCING, VICKI SULLIVAN'S SALAD BOWL RESTAURANT 

GREEN PEA AND SPINACH SOUP

The Beginnings:  Always start with an excellent, seasoned chicken broth.  This was frozen from Thanksgiving dressing fixings.  Today is just the day to bring it out.

 

NEXT: Add the peas, spinach, and fresh onion.

be right back ... cooking!

Food processing ......results in YUM!  "GREEN PEA AND SPINACH SOUP"

Sprinkle of fresh parsley,a little sour cream, dollops of feta cheese and !!!! Drum roll!

FEBRUARY - I PREDICT

I PREDICT WARM WEATHER WILL RETURN - That's a really safe prediction given it's February.


NO FEAR!  RUN ON! 

BROOK'S - NOT TO BE UPSTAGED BY COMSOS FLOWERS - THESE COLORS ARE SUN SHINE NIGHT OR DAY!

JANUARY 19 - HIGHLAND RIM RUNNING ON THE UPPER CUMBERLAND PLATEAU

MOTIVATION

BROOK'S still topping the BEST RUNNING SHOE list!

2015 IS ON THE MAP! SHOW YOUR LOVE! RUN IT!

BR-R-R-R-R-r-r-r-r!!! The cold front arrived this morning in McMinnville, TN.   photo credit@vicki l. sullivan/landscape "Middle English gorgeouse, from Middle French gorgias elegant, perhaps from gorgias wimple, from gorge throat First Known Use: 15th century" Gorgeous, (recommended reading: Georgias) sunny day but arriving in at about 21 degrees means COLD.  And, it's going to stay around a few days; or so they say.  Run, walk, exercise on! Start the NEW YEAR off right by focusing on goals set and goals achieved.  Run, sprint, jog, or walk...it's beautiful out there and the exercise and fresh air will enliven, and energize your mind, body, and spirit. There are tons of new information being provided by the latest research on fitness and health to encourage a healthy lifestyle.  One interesting to me is that certain foods do promote muscle building and fat loss. For example, fat and carbs are said to work against one another when consumed in the same meal.  I'm not so sure about all the new research.  I am sure about how the body informs an individual on what it needs to feel good and have strength to complete the day without being exhausted. We all know sugar can be very dangerous and make us feel really bad. While a balanced diet and exercise help to bring about sustained energy and good health.  So today, after a three mile jog I began with grapefruit and 2 hard boiled eggs.  And, feeling pretty good. Hope your day goes well and your NEW YEAR a bonus year! BTW: Anything you buy from Amazon, I can sell to you!  Here's the link to my site, Vicki's BooksAndMore and the search feature will find your choice.