Faith Laces

Photo Credit - Faith Laces One of the joys of running for me is spending quality time with my daughter. Monkey is three now and joins me in the jogging stroller for two runs a week. Here’s how I make the most out of our running time together: Pray  – Before running I pray that God will keep us safe, help us to run our best, and open our senses to his presence. Practice God Sightings  – I feel closer to God when running; I’m hoping Monkey will someday know the same closeness. During our runs, I point out God’s wonderful and beautiful creations like the blue sky, fluffy white clouds, flowing water, green grass, fine sand, heavy rocks, tiny pebbles, the variety of creatures like the birds, ducks, geese, groundhogs, squirrels, and turtles. Highlighting all of the different textures, smells, sounds, and sights around us, I say, “God made that.” Later when I’m making dinner and overhear Monkey say, “God made water or God made macaroni and cheese;” My heart swells and I...

I like to think I got my drive and discipline for running from my father. He’s not a runner, but while I was growing up he was active in multiple sports. Mondays he played tennis. Tuesdays and Thursdays he played basketball. Wednesdays he golfed. Fridays he bowled and during the spring and summer he played softball. These days my father stays active through bike riding. About a year ago, a client ‘paid’ my father with his bicycle. He told my dad it was worth around $500, when it actually was worth less than $200. But my father accepted his payment because that’s the kind of lawyer he is. In a profession with an ugly and dark reputation, my daddy shines like the sun -I’m a daddy’s girl if you couldn’t tell  Photo Credit - Microsoft Clip Art My mom told me about the bike and how my dad came to own one, but I didn’t realize how often my dad was riding until Christmas of last year. He kept talking about riding along the  Rails to Trails , how uncomfortable his bike seat ...

Photo Credit - Faith Laces My Daughter's Guide To Running Like A Princess: A princess runs in dresses, skirts or tutus – no shorts and definitely no sweats! A princess favors pink in all clothing. A princess wears running shoes as long as they are pink and sparkly. A princess runs with one hand holding out her skirt as if she is Belle ball-dancing with the Beast. A princess is free to take frequent rest breaks and be pushed by her mother/servant (is there a difference?) until she feels up to running again. A princess is also free to interrupt a run with a spontaneous ballet recital of sorts. A princess can add dancing at any point during a run. A princess enjoys a short nap after a long run. *Originally posted on Pocketful of Playdough

My typical summer running outfit includes a pair of shorts, a tank top, a sports bra, socks and a handkerchief to wipe away sweat. This morning I put on a pair of black shorts and a loose black and white sleeveless Champion ®  top from Target that my hubby bought for me. When I walked out to the kitchen to put Monkey’s shoes on she said, “Yuck!” “What? My shirt?” I asked. “Yes. I don’t like that.” “You don’t? It’s not pretty?” “No. It’s yucky.” So I changed. To make Monkey really happy I’m going to have to invest in a running skirt. So what does the always fashionable Monkey wear to run? A pretty princess dress, of course. *Originally posted on Pocketful of Playdough

I had hoped to post my race report for the Shad Bloom 10K I ran on Saturday, but I’m still trying to get everything settled after returning from our week-long getaway. I’m afraid that the race report will have to be postponed until next Monday. *** My jogging stroller is great for the most part, except it doesn’t travel well. It takes up a lot of room so I didn’t take it to Block Island. This meant a week of running on my own. I’m not complaining; it was a fabulous week of long runs on sandy trails with ocean views. But I regretted not being able to share those views with my little monkey. This morning I pulled the stroller out and brushed off a few cobwebs. I’m amazed how quickly spiders can make themselves at home! Monkey eagerly hopped in, so I could tell she’d missed running with me too. Of course, she’d had to bring a ‘few’ things, like every Disney Princess Barbie doll she has. I guess they needed a little fresh air! Not quite a mile from our house is a track. Once we g...

The number 2 item on my ‘Running’ packing list is a sports bra. So it boggles my mind how on a recent trip, I forgot to pack one. On the other hand, I  had  remembered to pack my Ace bandage in case I injured my ankle. I was at my parent’s house and my always resourceful mother suggested using the bandage as a suitable bra replacement. She did the honors of wrapping me up. I remember it like the scene where Mammy ties Scarlett O’Hara’s corset. If a sports bra, is number 2 on my ‘Running’ list, then number 1 has to be my shoes. Not just any old pair of sneakers will do. A good pair of running shoes are essential to keep injuries at bay. A good running shoe helps absorb the shock of pounding the pavement and prevents sore knees and painful joints. As far as gear goes, those are the only two essential items a female runner needs.  But to be a runner, to enjoy running, to make it a part of your lifestyle, you need a lot of support from your family and friends, espec...