I’ve been blogging less than two years and thoroughly enjoy the community. I like the diversity and camaraderie in a supportive, encouraging environment. The sharing of ideas, creativity, and passions inform, entertain, and cause me to think. The challenges of creating, developing, and publishing ignite and inspire me. In blogging, I believe I’ve found a
There is much for me to like about the Nathan Quick Shot Plus hydration flask. The size fits well in my hand with the comfortable strap holding it secure. There is no need to grip it or hold it tight while running. For me the 10-ounce capacity is perfect for runs under 8 miles, making
Running through the high school parking lot half way through a 9-mile run Saturday morning, I saw this young girl bounding out of a minivan with her siblings. I’d guess her to be about 3 years old and excited to spend a few hours at the field house while her older brother wrestled. Obviously a
I was running one of my favorite early-morning routes and came across a Christmas decoration that caused me to think. So much for a few mindless miles to start the day. Close to the sidewalk, away from the other decorations was a manger. But in place of the baby, there was a cash box nestled
Twice a year, I run a trail race. And each time, I enjoy the experience so much that I vow to make trail running a regular part of my training. The trails that host these races are each within a half-hour drive of my house. But it’s just too easy to come up with excuses
I’ve read about distance runners using mantras to stay focused during long events. I had never used one, or delved too deeply into uncovering the details. I feel like I may have tapped into this resource during the City of Roses Half Marathon in Cape Girardeau, MO. The course features a significant climb around the
A great cause, passionate organizers, community support, challenging course and fun atmosphere all contribute to the Dutchman’s Dash in Chaffee, MO being one of my favorite events of the year. In its sixth year, the Dutchman’s Dash has raised over $50,000 for The Alzheimer’s Association. With family matriarchs affected by this disease, Blaine and Morgan
2019 was my third Iron Abe Olympic Triathlon (now Abe’s Olympic Triathlon) in Springfield, IL. During the pre-race meeting, director Steve O’Connor described the course as undulating. He was talking specifically about the bike portion of the race. I knew from previous years there were rolling hills and gradual elevation changes, but nothing very steep
Alright, who let mom play with my phone while I was running this morning? Returning from a run, I noticed additional letters with accents on my keyboard. Uh, OK. As I typed, every word autocorrected to Dutch words that I’m pretty sure I didn’t mean to say. After a little exploration I found where I
It seems like a simple enough question. So why do I struggle with how to answer it? For me, I guess the answer depends on who is asking. When a medical provider is checking my heart rate or blood pressure, then it is a definite, “Yes, I’m a runner.” When someone sees me leaving the
