Jeff’s Post – Friday Rewind!

Another long stretch in between blog posts.  I hate that but I see them picking up as we head towards the fall – I have quite a few races coming up.  We just got back from a whirlwind trip to Ocean City, MD.  It was nice to get away for a few days and I always love running at the beach.  I ran 9 miles on Monday (5 by myself and then 4 with Tamara), 6 on Tuesday and 7 on Wednesday.  I had some of the slowest runs of the summer but I’m  not beating myself up over it.  I know why they were slow – too much sun, food, drink and not enough sleep.  We have a trip to Wisconsin planned in a few weeks and I will start pushing the training right after that.  Last year I felt like I was in my best shape around July/August which was really too early.  I want to be there in September/October this year so I can go into Marine Corps strong and fit.  I also want to try to lose a few pounds by October. I ran both of my Marathons last year at around 168lbs, I want to run Marine Corps at around 160 if I can get there.  That is really too light for me but I think it will help and I’m willing to put up with the “you are too skinny” comments for a month or so.

A quick Tamara update – she is still around 🙂 but is nursing a sore knee and has just been super busy running Samantha around.  Samantha is in our local production of  The Wizard of Oz this year (she is a munchkin).  The kids have been working so hard and have been rehearsing for months.  All the rehearsals are over and they are in the final weekend of shows and they have done an amazing job.  So proud of Samantha!  I shared a few pics below.

6 Treadmill miles this morning – Have a great weekend and Happy Running!

Jeff’s Post – My running goals for 2012 – I’m Ready Too!

I loved reading Tamara’s goals for 2012 and although we discussed them briefly she didn’t tell me everything she wanted to do so it was fun to read her post too!  So here I go with my list!

Jeff – 2012 Goals

Run 2 Marathons – One in spring/summer – and one in the fall.  My goal will be to improve upon my 2011 3:58 marathon times!

Run every ½ Marathon that Tamara does and maybe convince her to do one more :).

Run Smarter – In 2011 I was just running to run – In 2012 I want to run to improve.  I want to improve my fitness, endurance and speed.  I ran over 2200 miles in 2011.  I would love to break that in 2012 but I would be ok if the overall number was lower and everything else improved.

Consistently run sub 20 minute 5k’s – I’m not a huge fan of the 5k but I feel like I’m very capable of running consistent sub 20 minute 5k’s at any time – that will be a goal in 2012.

PR in each distance – I realize I may not be able to PR in every race but I want to PR in every distance this year.  I don’t think this is a stretch.

Run with Tamara and Samantha in her first 5K (she is 7 years old).  I love how Samantha is interested in our running and look forward to this special moment for all of us!

Run where I live – There are so many places around where I live that I haven’t run through yet.  We live in a beautiful part of the country and I intend to take advantage of it.  I (we) will run “St. Mary’s in 2012!

Continue to improve the blog – I’m amazed at how many people have visited our blog – We started this to talk about our running journey for those who cared and we are so thankful for those who have taken time to visit.  I also have plans for a podcast and hope that will start in the spring.  I love the social aspect of running and love exploring all forms of social medial to connect.  Thank you all so much for taking the time to read and comment.  I’m glad we have been able to inspire a few to run – your comments inspire us!

A few last words about 2011.  I would like to take a quick minute and thank my parents who have always been by my side and so supportive of my running – Thanks Mom and Dad for your support, encouragement and for sharing my 1^st marathon experience.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

And to Tamara – My running partner, my best friend and my love – It is an amazing feeling to share a passion with someone you love and I thank you for being there for me during the year.  I will never forget all of our amazing runs, our amazing trips and countless memories we made along the way.  I am stronger with you by my side and I’m looking forward to an amazing 2012!

Wishing all of you a safe, happy, active and more importantly a running 2012!

Jeff’s Post – Light the Tree!

I managed to sneak in a speedy 10 mile run this afternoon.  I was thrilled with that as I’m certain I’m carrying an extra pound or two around after all of these Thanksgiving meals.  Tonight was the annual Christmas Tree lighting in Leonardtown, MD.  It was a perfect night to light the tree.  Tamara and I have a run planned in the morning.  I’m not sure how far we will go or how fast we will run….I will just let her lead the way!

Christmas Tree Lightting Leonardtown, MD