Beginner Series - Clothes and Shopping... The Addiction!

After I wrote my post about getting into walking/running I realized that I could've talked all day about clothes and shoes in that post! That totally meant that I needed to write another post just on this topic... cause seriously... who doesn't like talking about clothes and shopping and running?

Now, for the sake of... me... I'm going to refer to the clothes as "running clothes." But, these clothes can count towards walkers and cross training people!

Where to Go for Running Clothes
Some people may think that you need to buy all of your clothes at the local running store. You could if you wanted to... and your bank allowed you to too. Some people may only want name brand clothes where you pay for the logo. Then there are people like me that pretty much finds deals wherever she goes to, and if she can score anything Saucony she's doing the happy dance!

So! Where to get your cool running duds? I've bought things from: 

• Target 
• Old Navy (my favorite place right now!)
• Academy Sports and Outdoors (their BCG brand is inexpensive)
• Dick's Sporting Goods 
• Local running stores 
• Name Brand website/outlets websites 

You may want to also try:

• Local thrift stores
• TJMaxx
• Ross 
• Amazon 
• Outlet malls

Now! Even though I just said you could get stuff at a place other than a running store there are some exceptions to the rules, which I'll mention below!

They say running is one of the cheapest/free-est sports out there... LIE!

Shoes and Socks
The #1 important thing that you need to buy... no matter the cost (cause there is no way around it, really)... is buying fitted running shoes. This is not a "oh, I'll go buy some running shoes at DSW or Target" type shoes. This is go to a running store and talk an employee (who is a runner) and have them fit you in a shoe that is best for your feet. They may have run around the store, outside the store or on a treadmill. 

When I first started out running I had crappy cross trainers from Target. I didn't get fitted for real running shoes until a year after my first 5k. I remember walking and jogging in a pair of Saucony Omi going, "Ooooh. Yum!" which is a really good sign when it comes to shoes for me. I've replaced these shoes a couple of times already (running shoes only last about 500 miles).

So! Bottom line... get shoes at a running store!

Now, as for socks! There are so many types! I started out with socks from Target, but switched to socks from the running store that like waaaaaay better. I prefer a little cushion to mine socks. I also like "no shows" cause I dislike seeing socks... and not to mention the not-so-awesome above the ankle sock tan line. Look at the running store and see what peaks your interested. 

Bras
You don't have to get running bras at a running store, but the women staff members will know their stuff and help you get fitted. What I like is my local store Run On! has Bras and Breakfast a couple times a year, which is an event for women to be fitted for bras and have some nom noms at the same time!

I have a couple Moving Comfort Fiona bras that have worked out great for me. Come to think of it, I've had them for over a year, but so far I haven't had any huge wear on them. But I'll need to get them replaced soon. I got fitted at the running store because I couldn't find a bra that stopped the bouncing from my B cups at any of the other stores. I've lost a little weight since then, but I'm still feeling secure, but, yeah, I'll be getting some new ones soon.

That being said, I did find one on uber clearance at Old Navy that is great for my cross training days!

Bottoms - Undies

Love these Runderpants! 

Ok. There is always the discussion on whether to go commando or to wear a thong or to wear shorts with benefits or to buy runderwear. I'll let in on a secret-that's-not-really-a-secret.... I wear runderwear. I wear compression shorts or capris most of the time. I wish I could wear regular running shorts with attached undies, but I do not want to worry about chafing (who doesn't!?!).

I'm in love with Saucony's hipster style Runderpants. I get full coverage in the back in and they do not ride up! Perfect! They also come in a brief style, but I was worried about coverage. I'm so glad I chose the hipster ones!

There are other brands that have their own runderewear, such as Under Armor, Moving Comfort, and the likes. Target's C9 now have their own undies too. All brands have different cuts too - bikini style or thong.

The choice is yours. You may end up trying several things out before you find the best thing for you. 

Bottoms - shorts, capris, skirts, leggings... oh, my!
Oh, bottoms. Something you really need if you end up running commando style! Hee hee!

This is a personal preference choice because all of our bodies are different shapes and sizes. It also depends on the season. Compared to men, women have gobs of choices!

• shorts with or without benefits 
• skirts with or without benefits
• compression shorts
• compression capris 
• compression leggings
• running dresses (yes, these are real!) 

For the warmer season, such as 70* and up, I wear compressions shorts that hit me mid thigh (bermuda style or a little shorter) because I still have enough curves that can cause some serious chafing down there.

For the cooler seasons 55* to 65*, I wear capris that go down to my knees. I just bought some awesome purple ones that I can't wait to wear in the fall!

In the colder season I wear full leggings that may or may not be lined with fleece.


Bottoms cont. - the color choices and those awkward sweat marks!
Everyone... for the most part... want those really cute colored shorts and capris. I admit, so do I. But I am also aware of those awkward sweat marks. You know... the ones that make it look like you peed your pants. Awkward. I know some people don't care... but I want to give newbies a heads up in case they care.

For the most part I only wear black bottoms. I do have ones that are black and charcoal from Old Navy, but I made sure that they don't show sweat. I also have a purple pair of capris, but then again I also tested them. How do I test, you ask. Well, this is gross, but I take a little bit of spit and test the hem area of the bottom to see if the fabric changes color. I know. I know. I know! Gross, but important!

I don't know what else I can say, for those who wear compression style bottoms... think about the sweat marks and if you care what others can see.


Tops
Seriously, there isn't much to worry about when it comes to tops. I wear tanks in the warmer/hot season, tees in the spring/fall and long sleeve in the winter time.

I will make a point about seams though. I tend to wear tops that are a little loser in the midsection just because I have to fit my shoulders, which are broad, first. I've tried some Academy BCG tops and I could feel the seams, even though it was suppose to be smooth seamed. Try the shirts on and move your arms like you would when you're walking/running. Do you feel any think rub? If you don't try a different size or a completely different top!


Outerwear 
What goes in this section is going to be the extra stuff like hats, gloves and pullovers. Most of this comes to personal preference, like a lot of things.


More Notes
Fabrics
Seriously. Do. Not. Wear. Cotton! Just say no to chafing! Find Dry Fit fabrics that wick moisture from the skin.  Trust me.

Runner's World What to Wear
Still wondering what to wear when it's a certain temperature outside? Runner's World can help you with their What to Wear advice page. Just select the info and it'll tell you what RW recommends. I've done this loads of time. After while you'll learn what is comfortable for you after you run/walk through the different seasons a few times.

The ADDICTION! 
Seriously, folks. Runners tend to have an addition to running clothes and shoes. You can never have enough. Never. Ever. I mentioned this to my friend J and she just nodded her head in agreement. Running is not an inexpensive sport!

Wearing a race shirt on race day
There is always talk among runners about wearing the official shirt for the race you are running. Some say it's a faux pas. Some don't care. I know some people actually worry about this. To read just a tip of the iceberg, read this article here. I generally don't wear the shirt until after the race because I'm superstitious.   

P.S. - In the time that spent working on this post... I've bought at least three more workout shirts, new running socks and a visor. Then! During Tax Free weekend I bought a pair of Oofos and a cool weather jacket that I will most likely wear even when I'm not running!

Seasoned runners... do you have any recommendations? 

Beginner Series - How to Get Into Walking/Running

Maybe this blog post is a little misleading. Or, at least, that's how I feel as I starting to write this post.

I have a friend who wants to start running. I agree that she should start out with walking, especially since I don't know her history of physical workout, but want to keep her from injury and from losing motivation early on (two that are major killers in getting started).

Instead of throwing all of this info at her like word vomit (If you haven't noticed yet, I talk too much when I'm excited about something I love... or whenever I get a chance to talk... That means I can be a bit overwhelming to some people... and I'm trying to work on that... which means there may be more posts on this blog soon enough! Ok... back on to topic!), I thought I'd write this post. Hopeully she'll be interested in reading it sometime.

**Disclaimer** 
I do not claim to be an expert or a coach. I am not a physician of any sort and claim no responsibility to injuries that may happen when following my recommendations. Please consult your personal physician before starting a new fitness routine.

Benefits of Walking 
Dot's Recommendation
If you want to take it slow and ease into a running habit, I recommend just walking either

1. 1 mile at an easy, casual pace

2. For 20 - 30 minutes, regardless of distance

How often should you do this, you ask? Every day or at least three times a week.

For the most part I walk one mile every day of the week during my One Mile A Day challenge I created for myself. I know that it may be daunting to find the time to do this every day (believe I know!), so I would recommend the minimum of three times a week.

You can obviously progress your walk to more than a mile or how often you do it during the week. Just remember to take it nice and slow!

And for anyone who is a little skeptical of walking is less beneficial than running, read these:

• Why Walking Is Important for Exercise - Runners World
• Walk to Strengthen Muscles - Runners World

Running Apps
Now! I'm sure you're wondering, "how do I know how far is a mile?" or "How do I keep track of my activity?" As with everything and anything these days... there's an app for that!

Here are ones that I've used extensively before I got my Garmin:

MapMyWalk or MapMyRun
Free, but there is an upgraded price to get rid of the adds. These apps are technically the same, but each is automatically defaulted to walks or runs, but you can change your workout type to whatever your are doing. This app gives you live GPS tracking and all the simple bells and whistles that anyone really needs. You could also track your nutrition too. There's a website that you can log into where you can create your own courses too.

C25K App
Inexpensive. This is the popular running program that gets you ready for a 5k run. It starts you out really, really slowly and has lots of timed intervals. I would recommend trying this app or any app that has a similar program.

Zombies, Run! 5k Training App
Inexpensive. I haven't used this app, but have heard great things about it. If you like zombies. If you like playing games. If you want to try out running. Try this app!

Charity Miles App
Free. I haven't used this app, but would like to if I remember to. Your milage regardless of walking or running money will be donated to a charity of choice that is part of program. Pretty cool!

Dot's Recommendation
I know, I know, it's hard to choose an app now! And I only listed a few that are out there! Gah! I would recommend with the MapMyWalk or MapMyRun if you just want to keep it simple for now and just want to do your own thing. Once you're ready for a "training program" then try out the recommended C25K app or any other C25k app.


Beginner Running 101
Now, let's talk a little about running. I'm not sure what to say, actually... so I'll share how I started out.

Many moons ago, I had about a month to get ready for my first 5k (and this is from not running. at. all). I picked the C25K app to get me started. It was hard, but it worked. The timed intervals were hard... such as "Man!? I have run for another 30 seconds?!" after already running for 30 seconds. (I have to laugh now cause I'm saying something similar, but only it's like, "Man! I have to run ::another:: 4 miles?!).

After I ran my first 5k race I tried to keep up the running training app thing, but stopped after awhile. A few months later I picked up running again with other people, and started using a GPS app and doing minute intervals on my own. It pretty much started out with a 2 minute run/1 minute walk interval and it progressed to 4/1 intervals.

Dot's Recommendation
Use a training app or a GPS app and start running with an interval style. Have lots of walk break with little spurts of running. Then as you progress in your fitness level, increase how long you run. Soon enough you'll be running longer and longer.


How Do You Find the Time? 
Oh, time. Like everyone else in the world... I don't not have enough time. Or at least I don't think I do. You just have to make time, that's all (I actually had to stop a few times over the past week to make sure I have time to do my daily mile walk).

Seriously, I don't know how some people do it!

Dot's Recommendations

1.Walk on your lunch/dinner hour at work.

2. Walk after dinner, before you get too comfy on the couch after eating yummy food.

3. If you're a morning person (power to ya!) wake up and extra 30min and do your think while the coffee is brewing!

4. Make it a friend bonding/group thing! There's no better way to make yourself do your thing when you have someone else holding you accountable! 

Runner's High... It's Real! 
A friend of mine did not truly understand the Runner's High was a real thing. It is so real. Besides being in love, it is the most awesome thing in the world. All the hormones hit you, and you just feel so good ... even if you're achy and sore!

After finishing my first 5k, I was hooked. Then about two years later, after I finished the Austin Half Marathon, my knees actually hurt (that was the first time I ever said the H-word after a race!), but I was so happy and satisfied I didn't care! This is addicting sh$#, people! And it's legal in all 50 states!

Learn more about what's going on with that awesome Runner's High read this What's behind runner's high? - Shape Magazine.

Also! I have to mention that walking and runner is great for mental health too just because it helps you refocus onto something else.

Important Things to Remember 
Here are some things to remember:

Listen to your body. 
Walk when you need to walk. When you feel like running, run! If you feel like your heart is about to pop out of your chest because of your walking/running... walk or stop and breathe!

Once you start running more, and you're wanting to run more... invest in running shoes! 
I don't mean going to Target or DSW to get running shoes. Go to your local running store and get fitted. Not all running shoes are created equal and the same goes for our feet! Just tell that to my size 11 flat feet. You know when you're starting log your new life as a walker/runner when you get excited about your new pair of shoes! When you start posting pictures about them on social media, you've made your official "shoe p@rn" post!

Mmmm. Check out my "shoe p@rn"
that I posted a few months back!

Not all aches and pains mean you're injured?
It's OK to be sore. It's OK To be sore for several days. There is a different between sore and an in pain, however. I know it's hard to tell sometimes. But if the pain does not go away after a few days or walk/runs then maybe something is wrong. But! Use your best judgement. If you want to see a doctor... I'm not stopping you!

Remember to BREATHE! 
I'll admit it. I don't breathe the right way, and I tend to push myself too much. When you're running you want to make sure you can not only breathe but be able to talk/have a conversation with out any struggle.  

During the summer bring water with you! 
If it's hot, y'all! So make sure you have a water bottle near by or with you or you're at a place that has working water fountains. You have to be get to the water easily so you won't die of thirst go without a drink for too long. Remember you sweat a lot during the summer!

Sunscreen! 
Remember to wear sunscreen when it's bright and shiny out! Skin cancer is a real concern, especially for long distance runners who spend at least an hour or more for a run. Slather on that SPF 30 or 45 to protect yourself for burns!

Dress Accordingly 
I'm guilty of this too... You ask, what should I wear? Well, it depends on the weather and how cold or hot you typically feel. When you're running your body will heat up about 20 degrees... So! To make it simple, wear workout clothes that you find at Target, Walmart or Old Navy. No cotton cause you do not want any chafing.

If you walk around after dinner, and it's dark outside... 
You always want to be safe whenever you are walking/running. But at night ake sure you're safe on a sidewalk that is well lit! Wear something reflective! I walk around my apartment buildings, which are pretty will lit up, but there are dark patches, especially where I have to cross the road. Check out my post about Running Safely At Night for some more ideas!

Once you start getting that urge to try for a 5k race... DO IT! 
Always keep an eye out on local fun runs. There are lots of them now a days. Some are really well priced while some can be pricier. My first 5k was the Hot Chocolate Run and it was pricey, but the goodie back and the chocolate fondue at the end of it is SO WORTH IT! Smaller runs could be for charity or a local cause. Like I said, keep your eye out or just search the inter webs for upcoming races. When you feel that tug in your chest to do one... and it doesn't matter if you're still walking or running... register and have fun!


I could go on and on, but I don't want to overwhelm you with too much info! Hope this has helped you in any way. Leave any questions or ideas in the comments area!

Are there any other experienced runners out there that can share their Beginner Runner tips? 

Images found here, here, here,

Running Safely at Night

Night running. I wasn't a fan of it until recently. Let me explain. If any of you read my One Mile A Day - Week 6 recap (it's ok if you didn't - at least you're reading this post!), you would've seen a mention that my then-boyfriend that I loved dearly decided that we should go back to just being friends (huge back story as to why - maybe I'll talk about it some other time). For months, after our busy jobs that made us work late on certain nights, we would meet up at night to go out or just hang at my place. It was wonderful. However, since the beginning of February there's been a void in my after-work night life. What a way to remind you that you don't have a special someone at the moment. Meh. 

Well, now with all the free time at night I would find myself upset, lost, lazy, and lonely - the most awesome (ha!) side effects of a break-up. Even vegging out on TV (something I love to do), playing with Jackson (my cat you'll meet soon enough) and planning my running schedule (I love to plan) wasn't enough distraction for me. Plus, my friends can't be on call all the time. Hee hee.

So, what does a girl do? RUN!

Beyond dealing with personal roller coaster that is life, I started considering some factors:

• We're having better weather up here in North Texas - hello, Spring! I love you!
• That I love sleep and tend to sleep in on the mornings I have free during the week.
• That I need to work on getting my body use to training more often during the week (all part of my plan to prepped for the marathon training down the line - did I mention I love to plan and be prepared as best as possible?).

So, yes! In the past two weeks I've become a weeknight runner. I run between 2 miles or a full 5k around my apartment complex some time after 9pm at least once a week. I'm trying to upgrade that to two nights a week. Crazy? Perhaps. When I first started running two years ago all the safety tips that I saw said to either avoid running at night or be extremely careful for various reasons. Very valid points. I keep all of that in mind when I go out, actually, but I still go out.

Funny enough Women's Running Magazine in the past few days shared the 5 Rules to Stay Safe During Night Runs and New Apps Keeping Runners Safe. What timing, right?!

The 5 Rules are pretty straight forward and common sense, but it's always a good reminder. If you don't know them - seriously, read the rules! Plus, runners have the perfect excuse for wearing those neon colors!

The new apps are interesting to me because I run over at White Rock Lake on one of my days off. And I generally don't tell anyone (unless I'm leaving from the family's house - a place that I visit far more often since February). Of the two apps  I'm interested in Glympse because for one thing I don't need to pay for anything and because I don't need to have a phone app to track my runs. But RunSafe has its benefits too. Though the Panic Button would seem a bit inaccessible if it's in a running belt like my Fitletcis one, which makes me take a minute or two the phone or key out of. Glympse has a 4 hour time span, but I wouldn't be running longer than that by myself - at least I don't think so. I'm going to hem and haw over getting one of these, but I think one would good for when I'm out at night.

Dot's Tips for Night Running
So, in addition to common practice things with running at night here are some other pointers that I've got to share. First some basics then some others:

1. Wear bight colors!
I'm guilty of wearing mostly black (or all black during the winter), but seriously peeps runners have the best excuse to wear neon colors! Perhaps I luck out a little cause I rock the pale alabaster skin tone, and my legs can reflect headlights nicely. Naw, I should wear neon no matter what.

2. Run against traffic!
It's a way to see the cars, but also to see if there is any trouble coming your way (other than the fact there are cars next to your sidewalk!). I always prefer running against traffic and plan my run accordingly. Only once do I need to have my back to traffic but it's for only one block.

3. Bring your phone and ID. 
I know some runners go without their phone, but at night it's best that you do. Even if you don't use one of those new safety apps, if you need to call for help you're not without! I typically forget to pack my license when I go out, but it is a good idea to have it. But if you had an awesome Road ID then wear that!

4. Mix up routine/route.
They always say that the bad guys tend to pick up on consistency. In some ways I don't have much of an option when it comes to where I can run at night, but I don't have a set time and I do mix up when and where I turn.

5. Consider running with a small mace/pepper spray.
If you have a running belt or an armband you should be able to fit in somewhere. I don't have one, but my RB does. P.S. - Make sure it's legal for you to carry it!

6. If your clothes don't have any reflective parts or you're anti-neon consider buying a headlamp. 
I have a Princeton Tech Byte headlamp. Bought it cause the street lights around my apartment were crappy But, as usual, the lights were repaired by the time I spent the money at REI. Also, my ex-boyfriend ran at night a lot since his job started at 6:30 every morning, and I figured that it would another way for us to get together. Whatever. Seriously, this is a nice headlamp and doesn't bounce around too much and isn't heavy. It's also perfect when you're reading in bed at night!

7. Take a Runner's Self Defense class. 
This tips applies to all runners regardless of what time of day they run, but especially those at night. Check with your local running store to see if they have any classes coming up or look around online for tips. Here are some helpful links:

• How to Stay Safe on the Run - Runner's World video 
• RunSafer - lots of videos to view in the Techniques portion of the sight. They're also on Facebook.

Well, these are just a few pointers for me. Plus, a glimpse into what's going on in my head and heart right now. This new running time might change once I hit my new training schedule, especially for the marathon, but for now it's helps me a lot and I love it. Plus, it helps me fall asleep faster - super bonus!!!

When do you prefer to run? Morning, afternoon or night?

Do you have any tips about running safe for all times, but especially at night?

Images found here and here.

Race Recap: 2014 The Four Seasons Challenge

This past year, after finishing my first half (New Years Double - Eve Half) a number of my running friends and I signed up for the Four Seasons Half Marathon Challenge provided by Mellew Productions. That's four half marathons total - one per season! Yeah!Not only do runners get a discount on race fees if you register for the challenge, you also receive a Four Season medal when you complete the halves in succession, and you will forever be able to pay $50 for a Mellew Half in the future! Awesome!

To say the least, this was my 2014 challenge - the completion of four half marathons. This would equal me out to a total of five half marathons in 365 days!

Race #1: Texas Half
This race unfortunately had to happen in February when Texas was hit with lots of winter weather. It was cold an blustery enough to freeze your snot. Plus, there were possible snow blowing in during race time. Wonderful! Bundled up complete with a rain coat, we ran the Irving course. The course nice "eye candy" from apartments to housing to a greenbelt it was an out and back course. Granted there was a disconcerting moment when you realize that part of the wooded greenbelt area was just on the other side of the creek from a shooting range! The course, though, was relatively flat with some inclines, but nothing that made you yell to yourself that you needed to do more hill work. The race started and ended at the Irving Convention Center, which is uber nice since parking was close thanks to the parking garage (free). 

Honestly, however, I would not want to run this race again. Granted the weather was horrid this year and it cause problems such as:

• No gear check as far as we could tell (say hello to walking out of a warm building after the race to get your change of clothes from the freezing car!),
• Timing scaffolding could not withstand the winds and was taken down by the time I finished (finishing time is still little messed up!)
• Short Course - Yep, the course was total a 12.55mi distance. I felt cheated on the last thing, but at the same time I didn't have to be in the frigidness for one minute longer until I had to get my change of clothes and to return home

Next year could always be different, but I wasn't all together happy.

Race #2: Big D Half

Compared to Texas Half, this race was really good. Back in the familiar stomping grounds of Fair Park Mellew appeared to more on top of it. Granted, the only thing they (along with my buddies and I) had to worry about were the potential rain and lightning storms that were rolling in. What is up with the weather, Texas?! The first half of the race lead us through residential areas to run momentarily on White Rock Lake for almost three miles before heading towards and down Swiss Ave. I loved "house shopping" during this race during the entire distance; though the downpours after the halfway mark was a bit distracting. I had finished strong with my best time yet, and was quite happy.

Runner's Tip: bring a towel with you so you can dry off and, if it is raining or could possibly rain, bring a rain jacket to wear when heading home! I decided not to change out of my wet clothes since I had to trek almost half mile back to the car to get home!

I would do this race again. I even read that they are redesigning the course to be flatter!

Race #3: Hottest Half 

This was an insane race, and named appropriately. I have yet to run a hotter race - nor do I care to do so. The course, which went along the Trinity Trails, was OK and interesting since this was a completely new area for me. I running my intervals not too badly and was making good time. I wasn't too familiar with the race course because of how twisty turny it was on the map, and I fell for the usual trap of "oh, the distance between the turn-around point and me is not that bad." The realization of how wrong I was hit hard when we all discovered that what was called a "small gravely trail" turned out to be more of a construction road with lots of dirt and big gravel. I called it the Gauntlet of Hell.You had to walk this out and back and then you could consider running again - if you didn't have to stop and the little rocks out of your shoes and got your legs to stop feeling like jelly after walking for so long. Just when you thought you survived the worse you realize that the course was designed to be longer when you hit their Mile 11 marker and your Garmin is telling you 12 miles instead. It evened out a bit, but it was still over by at least 0.4 - 0.6 miles!

Just because of how hot it was I would not do it again! Oh, and there were not enough bathrooms for this race, which isn't good for someone who gets nervous before each race! What got me through this race was a lot of happy thoughts of what I was going to be doing later that day!

Runner's Tip: Invest in a cooling towel (I really like my Enduracool) that you can get wet. Wear it on your head or around your shoulders.

The Gauntlet of Hell before the turnaround. Look at those poor dejected runners! 

The Gauntlet of Hell after the turnaround. Dirt. Road.

Race #4: Tyler Rose Half 

This was the best race out of the entire challenge! No question about it! After a good night sleep in a soft hotel bed (score!) I woke to perfect weather. After going through packet pick up, gear check, visits to the loo I was in place at the start complete with butterflies and the question of "Why am I doing this again?". But with 5 minutes left to go, I got an unexpected text message from a friend that made me smile - and it stayed with me the entire 13.1 distance. Honestly, I was worried about the hills since I practically did not train at all for hills let alone any long distance race for entire month of September (oh, illnesses), but they were not bad at all - (while I think back) including the big one at the end (read below).

The hills were not that bad. The scenery was lovely. I vaguely remember the course map, which helped in some respects. There was a lot of volunteers and spectators to cheer you on. I started out doing my typical interval style (4:1) for almost the first half, but the last half of the race I ran it straight. I told myself that I would walk for a minute when a specific mile popped up, but I actually lost track of what mile I was on (I ignore my Garmin after a while). Realizing that I was at mile 9 instead of 8 I decided to keep on running straight with no breaks until my body told me otherwise. Plus, Garmin was showing a really good time. I only walked a little bit those last few miles, especially when there was one huge hill ahead of you that could scare the Powerade out of you! This half finishes in the Rose Garden is was really beautiful, and a perfect place for finishing photos. My buddies and I got our challenge medals and even had our picture taken with Clif, Mellew's MC for the races. I had a sub-3hr PR on this half, which I totally did not expect! Maybe I can achieve more than my mind is letting me to believe!

Runner's Tip: If you are staying in a hotel the night before the race, try to get the hotel to extend your check out to 2pm. We tried, but it didn't work out, and we ended up swabbing down with loads of baby wipes in a bathroom stall before changing our clothes, getting lunch, and driving back to DFW.

A beautiful view in Tyler. 

Race logos found here.