a recap to the late, great 2013

In 2013, I ran 19 races (the shortest: a 5k, the longest: an "unofficial" half marathon). I ran 457 miles that torched approximately 72,000 calories which probably helped drop me 20 lbs. I am looking forward to more achievements in 2014!

An ode to the south

Here is what the weather on Tuesday was like for my group run.. Allow me to paint the picture for you..
Dark.. 17 degrees. 20+ mph wind gusts.. I wore 2 (yes TWO) pairs of pants, 4 shirts including a dri-fit tank, base layer, long sleeve tee, and a hoodie, gloves, hat, neck warmer, and the list goes on.. It was the most uncomfortable run in a long time.. Thank you polar vortex.

Here is what the temperature was like when I set out on Saturday for my first official long run of my half marathon training.

And here is what the temperature was when I finished...

The sun was shining. I was wearing a t-shirt and capris. Had to dodge a few puddles along the way, but I'll take it.. I completed my first long-run of my half marathon training schedule. 5 whole miles... Hard to believe it will be up to 13 again in no time.

It's days like Saturday that I love the south.

a run-tastic christmas

It was a very "run-tastic" Christmas indeed. I got spoiled with new running shoes (and socks!), a garmin, and a new nalgene water bottle. I'm still saving my new shoes - its been wet and icky every time I step out for a run so I don't want to get them disgusting smelling quite yet!