POST HALLOWEEN SCENE

 

McMinnville Civic Ctr Trail - 11/01/2016

Would you believe the word on the trail this morning was over 1000 people participated in a Walk-About Trick-Or-Treat last Halloween evening and this morning this is the scene?  I did see about 5 small pieces of candy wrapper stuff thrown about,  and that was it folks!  There were gaboodles of families towing kiddies about all running everywhere and yet the park was not trashed out!  Now that's IMPRESSIVE! 

Beautiful morning to jog my 2.77 mile this morning and finally to see the sugar maples begin to take on some color.

RUNNER'S CREDO - HOLD A STEADY PACE AND KEEP THE FAITH

While reading, "Introduction to St. Thomas Aquinas," I happened upon a truism stated within the text.  It read, "A body that tends by its natural appetite to its place is moved all the more vehemently and rapidly the nearer it approaches it's end."  We see this truism all throughout Mother Nature especially as the year evolves through it's cycle. Autumn beginning  it's change into  Middle Tennessee is a great and glorious example of a  natural progression. 

I was born in October and entering into life must have had a good beginning because I rejoice in this time of year and running is especially enjoyable for as the weather cools and colors begin to change, time seems also to slow to show it's appreciation to and for all living things and people.

I've been watching a new John Wayne type western series lately. "Longmire," features a Wyoming lawman and his quest to keep the peace in a typical midwestern small town beset by today's standard of problems which are everywhere.   One takeaway I've gathered from the series so far is how important it is to make sure one's faith is in the right place. My Runner's Credo, "Hold A Steady Pace And Keep The Faith" speaks to my having put my faith in Christ as the one true God and how I run my particular life race. 

Behavior is one thing. And, circumstances will often change that. Heart belief is totally another.  I love running and I love my Lord Jesus Christ! 

Blessings!

Vicki

UNANTICIPATED NATURE REWARDS WORTH THE EFFORT

photo credit@vicki l sullivan, 2016

Everyone who routinely challenges the environmental elements by running will soon discover there are welcome AND unwelcome moments along the miles trek.   These past few days, as August has evolved into September, I've welcomed the change of some little cooler weather and the awe-inspiring honk of migrating geese making their morning flight to the river.

The familiar sound of their honking always takes me back to my growing up in the Mississippi Delta.  My home was located on a lake jutting off the Mississippi River and those autumn days were filled with happy, comforting memories of watching the geese flying in to land on the lake in front of the house, a warm fire in the fireplace, and Mom's fabulously delicious chili.

The welcome moments during a run make the struggle worth the effort.  Much like mentally girding for holding steady through the next line of traffic, the unwelcome moments are nothing more than a challenge to hold pace and keep on moving.  There will always be the negative challenges appearing in the environment; and yes, even from people passed along the way. 

That's life. Both experiences have been a part of the run every year (since 1985)  I've been a runner. Can't wait to hear the geese tomorrow!

NEW BROOKS, RUNNING, AND ROADSIDE CORN

 photo credit@vickilsullivan, 2016

What commonalities exist with, new Brooks, running, and roadside corn?  Well,  other than my experience out this morning while jogging along Post Rd, not much.  I mean, really, there is corn growing alongside the road and even one stalk is now sprouting corn.  Once upon a time, when running with my Little Rock, AR marathon master runner sister, we happened upon roadside trees laden with ripe bounty and did stop to gather all we could carry.  Since the trees were not on private property but along the city curb, we figured we were helping keep the mess to a minimum.  Well, that was the reasoning at the time anyway. 

Personally, I would really love to see communities show their appreciation for those hardy souls who set good examples through running/jogging/and or walking by installing roadside fresh water fountains!  We outside exercise enthusiasts who take to the streets are first line folks helping to build and maintain safe communities for everyone! We're up early and out there in the early morning, all day, and even late into the night getting in those few or many miles which provide for us a clear mind, healthy body, and calm, disciplined, stable life outlook.  I can just see them now with nice little welcoming plaques saying, "Thank you for helping keep our city safe and healthy." 

Ok, now about my new Brooks Glycerin 14's. Have a look!  

My first impression was the design construction seems more contoured than the Glycerin 13.  And, the tred  application is a whole new approach from past models.  

Glycerin 13

My style is to hit first on my heel and then roll forward. The 14's design, though a full 1/4 inch more narrow, to me, seems to ride with better support.  Now, the Glycerin shoe is a neutral support shoe. Still though the construction gives great support with little to no wobble when the heel strikes ground.

Again, I find I have to laud Brooks Running for a great new shoe upgrade AND apologize for going to a competing brand for a season.  I thought the extra padding of the competitors shoe might add to the comfort.  But, instead, I caused a tendon pull in my knee and was out of it for 6 months. 

I'm pleased to be back in Brooks shoes and out on the road Running Happy! 

OLYMPIC FEVER HOLDING A STEADY PACE

photo credit@vickisullivan, 2016

To be sure, most runners are not olympic bound. Still, though, the same rules of endurance, steady pacing, discipline, and love of the sport, regardless of our natural gifting, bind us all through empathy and understanding of how many runs are just like running uphill all the way. That pretty much describes my jog this morning. 

Temperature, humidity, weather, emotional status, physical condition, and mental toughness are, I think, the components most affecting each run.  I was really up for the jog after taking off all jogs for 2 weeks.  But, as the week progressed and the temperatures reached into the 90's, my enthusiasm for getting up before dawn waned considerably.  Now, as drudgery and 90 degree temps, have once more demanded discipline and commitment, I find myself considering and weighing the costs and benefits of just "getting out there."  

Given that I've been a runner since high school, I don't think I'm yet about giving up on what I've always found relaxing and invigorating. And, though my fast paced runner family members debate on whether I am walking or jogging, holding a steady pace has proved exceptionally foundational in every area of life. Hello - I plan on continuing.

Certainly, like so many, I have watched with interest as this year's Summer Olympics choose which athletes are the best at whatever sport. And, I've appreciated how they each and everyone "hold a steady pace." 

Keep your eyes on the next mile market and Go Team USA!

RUNNER'S ETIQUETTE - PLEASE! GET IT

Brooks Summer 

 

Uh, the posting McMinnville Civic Center Trail on the path states, "NO MOTORIZED VEHICLES WALKING TRAIL."   And, though the trail is also open to joggers, runners, and etc. the, "NO MOTORIZED," rule should be absolute.  That's for the safety of everyone because motorized vehicles present known risks.  I often encounter bikers and others out there enjoying being on wheels - usually they are well supervised by parents, etc. though not always.  That's when the awesome park staff offer a most important part. They're there to make sure the safety of all park participants will enjoy the park. 

For us runners, and joggers (that's me), here are the Runner's Etiquette rules we need to employ at all times shared by Angie Spencer of the marathontrainingacademy.com, (yes, I'm actually thinking about training for a marathon run.) 

My Favorite Rule 1 - Pass on the left whenever possible and ALWAYS give the person you're passing the warning before you pass.  Usually said, "Passing on your left."

This is my favorite rule today because I was reminded of it when passed by a rude stealth runner this morning.  Angie notes, and I quote, "This is especially important if you're running early in the morning or in the evening." That's probably because she also carries pepper spray or mace.

JUST FOR THE LOVE OF RUNNING

 

After a slow jog downhill early this morning and looking up from focusing intently on the path before me, this view unexpectedly appeared showing the top of a majestic mountain in the distance.  Ever notice how small children seem to rather be running than walking?  After years of pursuing running as my preferred form of exercise, I'm convinced my love of running is a solid determination not to ever again lose the joy such childlike simplicity running brings to a moment by moment living of life.

The love of running does appear to leave when adulthood is overshadowed by the more pressing desires of preforming and competition to achieve something or other. Running, for me, means ignoring all that distracts from the joy of living life and staying in the present moment.

SUMMER RUNNING ON THE HORIZION

The Magnificent Magnolia Fuscata

Summer is looming very near as the temperatures begin to soar into the 90's.  Fortunately, this morning was a gift as temperatures went down into the 50's overnight!  Truly enjoyed this morning's 3.5 mile view of the mountains, flowering trees and shrubs, and the "cool breezes!"

The photo above was taken last year in late May or June.  It's part of the Magnolia grouping and carries the lemony scent of the Southern Magnolia along with the similar banana scent of the Magnolia Fuscata. Very nice and delicate experience to run upon one of the sweet trees.  I know summer is right around the corner when these appear and douse their flavor about in the warm sunlight.

I'm having to practice getting up real early to be ready to get out there before the heat sets in for the day. I seem to take to cool weather jogging better than summer jogging because all I have to do is gear up warmly.  In the summer there's the heat factor bringing a whole different challenge. The sun can really bring negative consequences when added to a heat factor.  Sweat can blind the eyes and heat can bring disorientation. Hydration and focusing on  healthy habits is the gateway to enjoying the summer weather.

 This article presents some good reading along the line of health related food intake. Hope you enjoy it and a great week out there.

MEMORIAL DAY 2016 - RUN, JOG, OR WALK - BRAIN & BODY WORK

photo credit@vickilsullivan

Happy Memorial Day 2016 - Memorial Day heralds thanksgiving and remembrances of those fine people who gave their lives in the service of liberty and freedom!  It also is welcomed by summer celebrations of the 2016 school year endings, summer's very warm weather greetings (at least in the South), and great Bar-B-Que and cookouts across our nation. 

Those were my beginning thoughts this morning as I paced myself along a 3 mile jog.  Then they turned to determination to focus on the path before me, regulating my breathing, and maintaining core body posture and form.  Fact is, in the past week, a friend, concerned I would be run over, challenged  my choice of running (jogging, in my case) on asphalt rather than concrete, so this week I am particularly alert to stay mindful while on the roadside.

Even though I've been an avid runner since 1984 and pretty much feel comfortable watching and listening to the traffic before and behind me, when someone questions my choice, I rethink my position to possibly meet the challenge with confidence the next time I'm questioned.  With 32 years running, jogging, and walking on the road, on sidewalks, and trails, I pretty much have surveyed the information out there to make the best choice, for myself anyway.

Runner's World experts offer this article on the best surface for runners. My experience is the first 13 years I ran on concrete more than asphalt or trails and, thankfully, without injury. However, maybe that's why last summer I began having knee trouble. Many talented and experienced distance runners agree, concrete effects more impact on the body than any other surface. So that's my take on the subject. I stand resolute on it.  Enough said.

Running/jogging/ and walking brings out the best for all aspects of brain, body, and spirit. Physical systems begin to work as they should, and the brain gets oxygen and blood flow to continue to grow healthy cells and process thought creatively and with structure clearing the fog like sunshine in the morning. Here's links a goodly bit of information on that subject. 

Running on the street takes awareness, concentration, a good bit of focus, and yes, sometimes steel nerves.  Take off the earphones and keep eyes and ears open.  I hope not to take anything for granted and hope you won't either. 


Happy Memorial Day Running! 

A DAY AT CHICAGO'S FABULOUS WRIGLEY FIELD

Chicago's Magnificent Mile

Last week began with a flight into Chicago for a visit with my oldest daughter, Christian.

christiantaylorvo.com

Christian is a VoiceOver actress and Producer. She was scheduled to do a voiceover recording in Chicago.  The office view above is from the reception/lounge area of the company where she was recording. And, there is where my education about the REAL CHICAGO began. Christian loves Chicago...and it seems, Chicago loves her! 

You see, like many folks, I only know what I read on the news about Chicago and unfortunately, the absolutely, positively, beautiful, family city gets a pretty big negative image portrayed. For several years now, whenever Christian would brag about Chicago, I would privately ask myself, what was so great about Chicago given all I heard was the negative.  Then, the past 2 days I have been seeing the Chicago my daughter and her family brag about all the time; the side making Chicago the great American city that it is today.

And yes, this blog is about running, jogging, and walking for that is what I've been doing to become acquainted with The Magnificent Mile along Michigan Avenue, Millennium Park, and onto WRIGLEY STADIUM, and those superb CHICAGO CUBS!  

Day 1. After finding our parking and fast pacing it up to the studio for the recording, we set out for lunch at Grand Lux Cafe.  I was comfortably impressed by the quaint, and elegant Victorian family  atmosphere and the food was superb. The Grand Lux has successfully brought the past forward into today's food culture while maintaining the ambiance and old world feeling of yesterday's grand dining rooms. 

RUNNING FROM PILLAR TO POST

photo credit: vickilsullivan - Blue Skies Above and The Road Down Below

Running from "pillar to Post," for me means running (or as for me, jogging) begins when I leave my abode and start toward the long trek along Post Road. And, depending upon the direction one takes, that can include 2 most difficult hills.  The terminology, "pillar to post," is thought to have originated way back possibly centuries before the 15th century in the game of Court Tennis. At that time, the saying referred to a volley known as, "post to pillar;" the post, "referring to a post that supported the net (though a rope was used in those days, rather than a net) and one of the pillars that supported the galleries." (linked quote credit)

This morning, to my amazement, while out there, I realized I was beginning to think like I use to think before deciding to enter a race. I used to be rather quick of foot when necessary but these days that is no longer true. Preferably now,  I had rather enjoy seeing that trait in my grandchildren.  

Joining a road race can take quite a lot of time and as my thoughts progressed, I decided rather to write, in a 3 point posting,  all the preparation it takes for me to get ready to enter one.  1st, I have to see one I might want to enter (there are many considerations going for this portion of the process) and think over the reasons for entering. 2nd, often is getting out there to run the trek to see if I think I might even consider running it in a road race. It's so stressful to be the last one in when, at least, I used to be able to be somewhere before last. I think I am trending toward being very lazy!

And 3rd, if making the decision to go given the plus side outshines the minus side, there's the actual signing up and setting aside time to prepare and train. Race day there is anxious jitters, breakfast decisions,  time to get up and get out there, etc. Really, there's a lot more to the sport if one decides to run road races. 

I guess my favorite and most unfavorite part is challenging myself.  That's why I admire those who remain steadfast lifelong runners! 

Just maybe I'll see you out there one day! 

BROOKS SHOE FINDER QUESTIONS

Ok, I just took the Brooks Shoe Finder   and here's the recommended shoe for support and energy return. 

The Brooks Ravenna 7 

My preferred color for spring and summer though is the Ravenna 7 in pink and gray.

ACHOO! ...RUNNING THROUGH ALLERGY SEASON

 

Flowering pear trees at Warren Co, TN Civic Ctr. - photo credit: Vicki L. Sullivan 3/21/16

HAPPY EASTER

Glorious celebration of Spring's arrival in the flowering pear and red bud trees. The weather has been really nice and the Warren County area has been welcoming the season with an abundance of beautiful flowering pears, cherry, and red bud trees.   

I tend to sneeze during this time of year when exercising outside. This article from a  runnersworld.com  contributor offers very good  help for  planning when, where, and how to run.  

Pushing too hard and fast can take in pollen deep into the lungs. I learned that one springtime in a race along a tree-lined path in Virginia  and pass it on hoping the experience might prevent someone else from having a bad allergy day.  

Little such lessons are really all part and parcel of learning about being a runner and committing to the sport. I've yet to commit beyond a 5 or 10K but haven't ruled out forever staying at that level. Basically, I know any level is all about training, and training, and more training. Uh, maybe one day. 

For the present, I find contentment and appreciation in and for the level I have attained. And, at times, I have backed wisely away from those who look down from loftier heights. 

It's is still a really fine day when I get out there for a 3 miler and a truly nice gift to find I have exceeded that distance. 

I say, "Welcome Spring! Thank you for adding your sweetness, fresh air, and glad new appearances to each day."

THE WEATHER AND TIME- THEY ARE FOREVER CHANGING

It's almost mid-March and soon to be officially declared Springtime. Hopefully, you already know those facts.  We've been enjoying a lot of rain the past 2 weeks amid some very much appreciated warmer temperatures absent of freeze warnings. 

Yesterday, upon beginning my jog, I noticed my 2 youngest granddaughters working to get their kite in the air.  Being that one of my favorite childhood experiences, I walked over to coach.  As fortune would have it a gust of wind swooped it up very quickly and I was privileged to stand by encouraging their efforts while it reached into the sky! They were delighted.  And, so was I. 

Getting outside has it's benefits and challenges. For me the benefits have always been greater than the challenges.  I'm delighted to see more are choosing to bring that attitude into their daily lives and get off the sofa.   Good shoes, for me that would be a nice pair of Brooks, make all the difference in an enjoyable jog, run, or walk. Sorry, can't help but give Brooks a high-five.

Though throughout the year the weather presents the most challenges to outdoor exercise, truly fabulous gear is still being designed and created to enhance the experience. Time, is another story all together.  That's personal to each individual to make the time to participate.  But, there are 24 hours in a day and most any hour chosen will bring big health benefits! 

Check out runnersworld for really encouraging and informative stuff! 

Happy Springtime,


Vicki

ROBINS - WATCHGUARDS OF THE KINGDOM

Little robins (wikipedia linked if you're interested to know more about them) were all about this morning to grace the pathway along the trail. They are migratory birds and the earliest to begin returning in about February.  They set up housekeeping once back in warmer climates and raise 2 or 3 sets of broods per year.  I think it delightful they seem to function as little sentries for the bird kingdom to herald storm warnings and the end of such by singing a series of notes.

I used to enjoy finding and collecting their springtime hatched eggs strewn alongside the road as I ran. That is,  until science discovered birds are prime virus carriers.  So much for collecting sweet littlel bird eggs alongside the road. 

Getting acquainted with Mother Nature is one of the best benefits resulting from running, jogging, or walking. Another is gaining an understanding one's own abilities and simply obtaining and maintaining some levels of fitness. Most will agree, our world is a beautiful world as spring nears and nature begins to renew itself.

Hope you're enjoying it too!

FIT OR FAT. WHICH ONE WILL IT BE?

3.46 miles this morning in weather fit for being out in it!  66 degrees with partial sun on the plateau following a light overnight rain, so layered up for the jog. I was about 1 mile into the run when I met my daughter and granddaughter out for their morning run.  What a bonus for the effort! I handed off my light jacket then watched as they disappeared on the horizon ahead of me telling myself my many years of running were safely passed on to the next 2 generations at least!

Some graces are great gifts! You know how it is when the road is washed clean after a nice rain! Just fresh...well, except when suddenly happening upon a roadkill in the pathway!  My 2nd encounter wasn't as well appreciated but it was never-the-less instructive of life's continued reality betwixt and between it all.

 

Suddenly, the pristine clean after a good rain is dispelled by the rank smell of roadkill and, of course, a vulture to clean it up!   I say, "Hurry vulture...hurry on with your breakfast," and hold my breath until I'm out of it's way and back to concentrate on working to get rid of the pounds put on while healing from a knee injury.  Without a doubt, the challenge before me is daunting.  

Just last week I was sitting with a few ladies, senior in age and status to myself, when they begin discussing bone density and muscle as one ages.  Mind you, I didn't find the discussion pleasant given I'm in the last few decades of life. Thankfully, good medical care can truly assist in the progression of such problems.

The mountain views of the area always perks me up giving me renewed energy to keep on going. Without a doubt the title of this blog post is a question I ask myself more than once in a day these days. One of the best and most helpful running tips I ever was given is, "choose something in the road before you and focus running to it, then choose another and do the same again."

Hopefully, soon, the pounds will be removed and some fitness will be restored in place of the fat. Just have to focus and keep on;  look for the positive, and ignore the roadkill and vultures and KEEP ON! 

LINCOLN'S IMAGE REMAINS

 

photo credit@vickilsullivan - 1/22/2016

Snow started about 10 this morning and has yet to let up.  Weather sources say it will continue until tomorrow about the same time. Meanwhile, temperatures keep to the low 30's, kids play about having fun with yet another day out of school.  

 And, showing up out of the snowy blanket, I find the image of Lincoln appearing in the snow crushed and framed by my shoe tread.  His day is past but is still remembered.

I love to hear and feel and snow crunching under my feet when it snows.  Seeing footprints in the snow take me back to childhood days of fun and play. And, even though the energy and spunk of childhood is long gone, joy is still a part of what is to be found when one continues in some part and way along life's journey.

Running, jogging, outside walking are all activities which bring back life in it's fullest. Layering up with layer upon layer, pulling the hat down ever so tightly, and the gloves snugging into the coat sleeves....all reminders which take a person back to again experience the glibness of being free before responsibilities were recognized as being forever there. 

Take care. Bundle up. Stay warm. Make a day to enjoy the snow. It'll be gone soon for us in the south and there will be other ways to remember and celebrate.

THE COMMONALITY BETWEEN BROOKS RUNNING SHOES AND THE STARSHIP ENTERPRISE

McMinnville TN Civic Center photo credit@vickilsullivan

18 degrees and counting this morning didn't entice me to get out onto the road for jogging! The weather reminded me of those freezing cold night runs in Arlington, Virginia when we wore hats that covered the whole face except for the eyes. When we returned they would be frozen! YAY! So glad those days are past. 

Still layered up and wearing heavy socks and pants tucked into my regular BROOKS while anticipating the temperatures and was NOT disappointed. There was a little wind making a big difference in chill factor this morning when the trail turned into it.  The first lap around this morning was brutally cold. But by the second, once turning into the sun and mountain view, I was taking off the gloves and looking up for the sun warming.

As always, I was also NOT disappointed in my running shoes.

They felt great. When the foot hits the ground and finds a soft cushy landing rather than the hard clunk of cardboard, there is none of that tremor going up the leg. Brooks most careful engineering reminds me of how Star Trek Enterprise transitions into high Warp 5 drive without wobble. When my feet hit the ground without variance, I give thanks every time!  Smooth striding transition and very nice stable landing in each step is my requirement in a good running shoe.

And, if the running shoe fits, wear it. If not, find another purpose for it.

Happy Running!

HAPPY NEW YEAR'S DAY 2016

photo credit: vickisullivan

From midweek temperatures to FREEZING!  It's time to pull out the hat, gloves, and layer-up. New's Year's Day 2.64 mile jog for me early this afternoon in nice sunlight but cold.  Was mostly a good jog though I kept to the walking trail rather than the road.