8 degrees and out for a run

So I have this 16-week training plan to make it to the finish line in one piece in Nashville. That means I need to fit in the runs, including a 6-mile run this week when the temperature was 8 degrees. At least it was sunny!

Layers are the key. I pulled on my warmer tights, followed by windpants. On top I wore a fleece sports bra, topped that with a fleece shimmel, followed by a turtleneck and then a long-sleeved running shirt. Windproof jacket on top.

Regular socks and shoes; I find that my feet don't get cold as long as they don't get wet, and how wet can they get when everything is frozen solid?

Neck gaiter that I pulled up over my nose until I warmed up, lined hat to cover my head and ears, and windstopper mittens completed the ensemble.

Guess what - I was warm! The snow was shining and twinkling like diamonds (as my kids used to say), I could hear my footsteps crunching along, and the cold air felt great.

Cross off that run! Next up is a 12-miler over the weekend, and I'm counting on it warming up to at least 20 degrees!

Keep on running.
Lynn

Nashville here we come!

It happened in less than a week.

I emailed my sister in Houston about the possibility of running the Country Music Marathon together in Nashville the end of April. It morphed into asking our dad and stepmom to come to Nashville with us. They love country music and Nashville, and haven't seen us run a marathon in years. Then my dad decided the youngest sister simply had to come along as well, and walk her first half-marathon. It's a done deal!

We decided making the travel plans, coordinating flights and hotel, takes more time than actually running the marathon. We're now back to training plans, fitting running and walking into our busy schedules, and taking ibuprofen for sore muscles.

But we have a goal, and even better, we're all going to be together for a fun weekend of running, walking, and checking out the country music bars (my dad's contribution). When was the last time you made family vacation plans that center around exercise? It doesn't have to be a marathon or half-marathon, although why not? Canoeing, kayaking, biking, hiking - they all are a great way to experience a new location and have fun together.

Country music marathon, here we come!
Lynn