I always seem to have trouble keeping up on my blogging...there has always seemed to be something that's taken my time away from it. (Although, when you get a new job--twice in two years--then buy a new house in the span of five weeks, it tends to take up a lot of time!)
Running has also gone to the wayside lately, to my regret. And when it rains it pours, as they say. I've not worked out properly in many weeks and have been eating extremely poorly. It all tastes fantastic, but I can't say that I feel top notch. On top of this, I've needed new running shoes for a couple of months now (Ok, I admit I've been hoping to make it down to Lansing so I can hit up Playmakers, but I may just have to suck it up and find the nearest running store in my area. I'm know they've got to be fantastic, but Playmakers' sale rack is SO hard to beat!)
Now that my new new job is under way and I'm somewhat settled into the new home (and am on a bit of a vacation), I've been able to think a little about my running goals. First, I've been able to do something that I've not been able to accomplish in the four years that I've wished to: Sign up for the Traverse City Track Club (TCTC) Bayshore Marathon in Traverse City, MI. For those who have been to this area you know exactly why anyone would want to run here. The area is absolutely beautiful. I've been coming here to visit family since I was a kid, and it never disappoints. Great food, great views and great people. What more could you ask for? I also like that the field size is smaller. For 2014, the number of participants in the marathon is limited to 2750, the half marathon at 2400 and the 10K at 1800. Considering the terrain of this area (the race is an open course on a narrow peninsula) I'm happy to see the low numbers, especially since I'm trying for a BQ again (I love participating in huge marathons, such as Detroit, but when you're aiming for a certain time these large numbers can work against you!) I can't express how excited I am to run this race. Memorial Day Weekend can't get here fast enough!!
Second, I want to explore other areas of training, and be even more mindful of what I'm doing, so to speak. I try very hard to be informed about what I'm doing because of how intense I train at times, but there's always that nagging voice telling me that I don't know enough. One thing I'd like to explore is yoga. I've heard great things about it from runners and non-runners. Runner's World posted some information on yoga (you can find the link I stumbled upon here) and I really want to give it a shot. The idea of tackling new training techniques has helped to keep me excited about running in such a stressful time in my life. And what better time to focus on this than in the new year?
Third, I need a new MP3 player. I LOVE my old Sandisk; however, it's died a noble death serving me well. It's hard for me to train long distance without music, so any and all suggestions are welcome. Please share with me what you use!
Well, off to eat my homemade muddy buddies and continue vacation vegging. I know I shouldn't, but can't seem to deny myself a day or two more of self indulgence. But before I do, here's a quote I found a while ago that I think is an awesome motivator. It's something I plan to live by in 2014.
Here's to another great year of running. Happy 2014!
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INFORMATION:
If you're looking for that next running goal, consider the Traverse City Track Club Bayshore Marathon! As of today (Jan. 2, 2014) there are 200 spots left. If you're looking for a distance that's a little shorter, try the 10K. There are 241 spots available as of this post. Not quite convinced yet? Check out the reviews for the marathon at marathonguide.com!
Traverse City Track Club Bayshore Marathon link
Bayshore Marathon course link
Yoga info from Runner's World: Runner's World Yoga Center
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