Tag Archives: Running

SLS3 Compression Socks Winner & CrossFit Day 12

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Today is the day!  The Random Number Generator picked the winner of the SLS3 Pink Butterfly Compression socks!!  Who says #13 isn’t lucky?  Today is your day #13, Lisa Jones!!!  WhoooHoooo!  Congrats, girlie!

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Lisa, please send your mailing address to amanda@tootallfritz.com and I’ll send you these, except clean new ones.  Smile

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Everyone else, please shop SLS3 HERE and feel free to use the 15% off discount code:  TRI15 for anything in their store, which includes a variety of compression products including socks & TRI clothing, plus a full line of TRI products/suits/gear.  My newest love!

CrossFit Day 12!

WhoooHooo!  Okay, maybe only a half of a WhooHooo today cuz I probably won’t be able to lift my arms by lunch.

Today started with an amazing quote on the white board:

“Avoid the temptation to compare yourself to others who have completely different lives and set of goals”.  Julie Foucher

Thank you, Ms. Foucher.  Good reminder.

The WOD for today consisted of 4 rounds of the following with one minute at each station: Kettlebell Deadlifts (26#), Butterfly Abmat Sit-ups (with a weighted ball), Step Ups (24” Box), Ring Rows & a continuous parking lot RUN.  My form was corrected on the KB deadlifts, Step-Ups & Ring Rows.  Yes, I was still sleeping so I’m glad that J was watching to make sure I didn’t hurt myself.  I think.  Yes, definitely happy.

Rest for 1 minute, then repeat for a total of 4 rounds.  Not too bad.

Then we finished out with Death By Push-Ups.  Sounds miserable, right?  Yep, totally miserable.  One minute per round, go as many rounds as possible.  First round started with 5 push-ups.  Do the 5, then rest til the minute ends.  Then 6 push-up in the next minute.  Then 7, etc.  I completed 10 rounds, so finished the round with 15 push-ups in one minute, then basically caved because my arms were so shaky.  I didn’t even attempt the next round of 16.  So in all, I did 105 push-ups. Looks better to put it that way.  Smile

Our group of 5am F’N CrossFitters rockin’ out the push-ups!  Love these guys & gals!!!

Death By PushUps_FN CrossFitters

** Yes, My Arms Are Still Shaking ** Amanda – TooTallFritz **

Chicago Marathon Training ….

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While most runners in the CHI are a full 8 or 9 weeks into marathon training, I’ve only just begun.  Granted, I’m “kinda” in half marathon shape.  As in, I can run a half marathon if I don’t have to add any speed to the equation.  My body isn’t exactly in the right spot so I’m more of a shuffler than a runner at this point.  In fact, my feet even scuff at times because I just can’t  get those hamstrings to engage!!  Well, time is ticking and the Chicago Marathon will occur weather I’m ready or not, so last week I created a training plan.  No worries, this isn’t a “BQ or Bust” type plan but rather a “Finish It” plan.  And that, I can do.  I can finish it even if I shed a few tears along the way.

Saturday’s calendar showed a 15 miler.  That probably seems easy for those of you who are marathon training, and very daunting for those of you working the C25K plan.   My brain processed it right in the middle.  I knew it wouldn’t be easy but that I should be able to cover the distance.  I was fortunate in that I didn’t have to run alone.  Hubby’s schedule is changing and I believe that it will give me back Saturday mornings for running.  And I mean running on real trails, not withering away in agony on the treadmill.   Plus the run club has  a big crew on Saturday mornings so this makes me “Happy, Happy, Happy”.  (Yes, we are big Duck Dynasty fans!!)  Smile

Saturday morning F’N Runners, minus another 6 who were already out on the trial:

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I put in 6 miles before the crew arrived, a bit faster than I wanted, just shy of 9 min/mi pace.   I knew that wouldn’t bode well for the rest of the run but I was with other people apparently let it happen so am apparently the one who was willing to suffer the consequences.  Knowing that my pace would only be slipping, I settled in with the 10-10:30 group who were also running long on SAT morning.  I kinda felt like I was holding them back, which is almost always how I feel when I run with other people.  Who knows if that’s really the case or just my crazy brain talking?  Regardless, I ran with those lovely ladies for an additional 4 miles.  Fun times.  I talked non-stop and probably drove them crazy was thrilled to be running with a chatty crew.  Alas, the time came when I needed to turn back and they continued forward.  I had one poor lady make the flip with me.  And wow, it didn’t go well.  I pretty much struggled the last 3 miles back to the car.  I had to walk off and on.  Normally walking isn’t a problem with me but I had a partner.  Total guilt fest.  She said she didn’t mind.  Maybe she did, maybe she didn’t.  Who knows but it made me feel bad. 

All in all, I covered 15 miles.  That’s a win on the training plan because it’s in the done column; however, I still worry that ruined that lady’s run!!

Do you feel guilty when you run with others and they stick with you even when you are having a bad run? 

**  Amanda – TooTallFritz **

Strike Out ALS 5K Free Entry GIVEAWAY

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We are so fortunate that we have options when running and racing.  There are new events popping up every day and if you want, you can race every weekend and a couple times thru the week.  The race distance which seems to be growing the fastest is the 5K.  This is a distance that is family friendly, fun and challenging all the same.  It can be fast and furious or a measure of one’s ever-growing fitness level.  For this reason, charities seem to favor this distance for both fun and fundraising.  One such charity is the Les Turner Foundation which is hosting it’s 4th Annual Strike Out ALS 5K on Tuesday, July 16th at US Cellular Field.

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What is ALS?   ALS = Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
ALS—often referred to as Lou Gehrig’s disease or motor neuron disease (MND)—is a progressive, degenerative disease affecting motor neurons. Motor neurons are specialized nerve cells that carry impulses from the brain to the muscles by way of the brainstem and the spinal cord. The muscles then move in response to these impulses.

In ALS, motor neurons gradually cease functioning and die. As this happens, the muscle tissues waste away because no movement is being stimulated. This results in gradually worsening muscle weakness, atrophy, and often spasticity. Only the motor neurons are affected. Other nerve cells, such as sensory neurons that bring information from sense organs to the brain, remain healthy.  Source & more info HERE.

The Strike Out ALS 5K gives runners a one-of-a-kind experience.  The race starts at the iconic home plate of Comiskey Park and finishes on the warning track inside U.S. Cellular Field. Following the race, runners can celebrate with family, friends and White Sox fans at the after party featuring the 2013 MLB All-Star Game under the lights of the ballpark. The concession stands will be open and the game will be broadcast on the Jumbotron.  This race is on a Tuesday night and includes free parking at the ballpark.  Free Parking = WINNING!!

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The race entry is currently valued at $40 but might be considered “priceless” to White Sox fans in the CHI.  If you would like to be entered to win this free entry, please comment below.  If you REALLY want to win this entry then share this post with your friends via Facebook or Twitter and let me know that you did so (in the comments below).  You’ll get an extra entry for each social media share.  I’ll draw a winner via a random number generator at 9am on Monday, June 24th.  Good luck!

This looks like a great event that would be fun for the whole family.  I like that.  All proceeds go to the Les Turner Foundation.  I like that.  Free parking.  I REALLY like that.  If you are too excited to wait for the drawing for the free entry, go HERE to register now.  Enjoy!

** Win an Entry to the Strike Out ALS 5K ** Amanda – TooTallFritz **

How to Love Life …..

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It’s true that I haven’t always been in love with my life.  My job.  My city of residence which is far away from my family.  However, running has taught me to appreciate the little things.  It has given me an avenue with which I can process life.  Destress.  Regroup.  Recharge.

Lake MI_6-13-13_me

If you don’t run then I’m not sure why you are reading this unless you are my mother, you may not understand what I’m trying to say.  You possibly think that running actually makes a person tired when in fact it actually recharges the “battery”.   It makes me feel alive.  It gives me a sense of self.  It gives me time to think.  It gives me peace.  Possibly you can find this thru another activity but that isn’t the case for me. 

I also find the running gets me outside in the sun far more often then if I were NOT running.  I go out during lunch at times and just cruise the city of Chicago.  It’s a bit of “stolen” time that helps me feel free.  Less like I’m always tied to a desk and more like I actually have a life that I enjoy.  It also enables me to see MORE of the city than if I were just strolling along.  Today I hit the lakefront trail to see how the lake faired after yesterday’s nasty storm.  Apparently it’s still angry and expelling that energy.

Lake MI_6-13-13_2

A few friends and I “might” be doing a swim clinic down at Ohio Street Beach tomorrow, so I wanted to take a peak and  see how it looked.  Rough.  Really rough.  Hope it calms down by tomorrow!!

Ohio Street Beach_waves

So a 5.5 mile jaunt thru the city and on the lakefront trail at lunch left me happy and smiling again.  Loving life.  Loving my job almost.  Loving the city of Chicago.  I encourage you to steal a bit of time for yourself to recharge your batteries …….. in any way that you are able. 

** Love YOUR Life ** Amanda –  TooTallFritz ** amanda@tootallfritz.com **

Zooma Training Run at Running For Kicks & Discount Code

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Monday night I attended a training run for the Zooma Women’s Race in Chicago on August 10th. The event took place at my favorite local running store in Palos, Running For Kicks!  We had an amazing turnout of regulars who show up EVERY Monday night for the free 6pm run and then a mix of new people who were there specifically for the Zooma event.  Photo below from Gail R.

Zooma RFK Run

We went out for a run with two options of either running the hills of Ishnala or the flat subdivision north of the store.  I always head for the hills then realize that I’m 1) too slow for the main group, 2) don’t know the route, and 3) not used to running hills!  However, I managed a little over 3 miles before heading back to the store to use the washroom.

Upon our return from the run, Megan from Muscle Milk was on location with samples of several flavors of Muscle Milk & Cytomax.  I was super excited to get ahold of a vanilla crème flavored Muscle Milk, that stuff tastes sooooo yummy!!!  Probably too yummy.  She also explained the benefits of Muscle Milk and talked with everyone about the importance of proper recovery after a run!  Thanks, Megan!!

Zooma RFK Run_Muscle Milk

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I’ll be searching out the vanilla latte flavored Muscle Milk Light next!

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Then Liama (pronounced Lima) was on site to register everyone for the race!  She offered a 10% discount and a special goodie bag to everyone who registered onsite!  Super fun and nice goodies too!  The onsite registration goodies included 1)  a cool Zooma bag which is reusable!  I want one!!  2)  A Cytomax water bottle with powder drink mix samples.  3)  A blue sparkly headband and 4)  the new Zooma 2013 shirt.   run. laugh. celebrate.  I mean really, isn’t that why we do this?  Running has brought me so much joy.  So many friendships.  And allowed me to celebrate my hard work.  This shirt really sums up what running means to me. Photo below from Jenny G.

Zooma RFK Run_registration goodies

I’m so excited for this race!!  I know it’s not cheap but I have high expectations and I really think Zooma will deliver us a one of a kind race experience that will leave us with great memories of the run, the celebration and most importantly of the laughter which brings us together.

If you weren’t able to attend this training run, then you can still use the 10% off discount code when you register for either the 10K or the half marathon.  Go HERE and use the discount code:  CHIAMB6

This registration will net you not only a great race but arguably one of the best goodie bags & after party in town.  Join us.  Race goodie bag below!

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I hope to see you at Montrose Harbor on August 10th!!  Please say hello if you see me!!

** Run. Laugh. Celebrate. ** Amanda – TooTallFritz **

13.1 Marathon Chicago

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This was the first year that 13.1 Chicago fit into my schedule.  I’ve always wanted to run this race and ran the Miami Beach version in 2012 but this hometown race just never worked out until now. 

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My first impression was not a pleasant one.  Packet pick-up was in Chicago, one location, limited pick-up times, high traffic area, no parking.  I was one “hot” momma by the time I drove around Old Town for 40 minutes with my kiddos, tried to park in a garage that was full, then settled on parking illegally to run in while also dragging my kids and grab the packets for myself and my friends.  Logistical nightmare for the non-Chicago runners.    Fortunately, once inside the pick-up was organized and smooth and I was in and out before Chicago PD towed my car.  The goodie bag was a virtual one to save on paper, but we had to physically pick up our bib & shirt.  The shirt was a Helium brand, gender specific sizing which ran small.  They also gave us a nylon backpack. 

13.1 Chicago_swag

The race itself was at the South Shore Cultural Center on 71st Street on Chicago’s Southside.  Parking was limited and the event offered and highly recommended the free shuttle service for all participants and spectators.  Win!

Pre-race I met up with my fellow FNRC runners and a few Chicago Running Bloggers.  There weren’t many bloggy friends this time around since this event is on the same day as the finish of Ragnar Chicago.  From left:  Emily (Out and About),  Eric (This Hobbit Runs), Chris (My Kind of Run), and myself.

13.1 Chicago_bloggers

The race started at 7am on the dot, sending off the first of many corrals.  Each corral was separated by about 30 seconds to help crowding on the course.  I was in Corral C and probably should have been back one or two more since I’m not really race ready as of yet.  I wasn’t at all crowded but certainly not running the same speed as my corral mates.  My focus for this race was to be controlled the entire time, not go too fast and not die at the end.  This was basically another training run for me.  I want to be able to run well on tired legs.  The 40 miles I biked on Friday morning pretty much delivered those tired legs and it was my job to run on them and prep for the Racine 70.3 next month.

I anticipated this course being very crowded because the entire race was on either the lakefront path or running/walking paths through Jackson Park.  However, it really wasn’t bad.  Possibly because I was toward the front.  Possibly because I wasn’t trying for any speed record.  Possibly because I was just happy to be there, to be running and enjoying the day.  We had good temps which were in the mid 60s throughout the race.  Then the course was shaded in many spots, thru the park and also on the lakefront path.  The view of the city from the south was breathtaking and the out and back course provided distraction as I watched for my fast friends.  I even had a surprise around mile 5 seeing another bloggy friend, Xaarlin (Pain is Nothing),  who was kind enough to come spectate and take a few photos!  The good part about seeing her on the way out was knowing that she was there on the way back so I was “ready”  when she pulled out the camera.  Smile

13.1 Chicago_me running

This is a good race.  Great location which is also unique to the Chicago “racing” scene.  Great scenery.  On course entertainment.  Aid stations spaced probably 1.5 miles apart which offered water and a sport drink.  Lots of potties.  Lots of smiling faces from volunteers, fast friends who are in front of you and heading toward the finish, fast friends who start behind you and then pass you (thanks, Eric!) and from those friends behind in the later corrals.  Running to me is a social event.  I don’t listen to music, I listen to what is going on around me.  The more people I see on course, the better the race is for me.  I LOVED 13.1 Chicago and loved high fiving my friends as we passed on the out and back!!

As a side note, the last 5K of a half marathon is always a drag.  If I’m feeling good then this is the time to pick it up and make up some time from dogging it in mile 8 & 9 but normally speaking, I just try not to slip too far like I did at Sunburst and destroy my finish.  However this time, I did something different.  In addition to wearing red, white & blue in honor of some of my F’N Running friends who were running Ragnar with the American “Sweat”hearts, I also went Ragnar style from mile 10-13 and counted my “kills”.  Yep, this is how I stayed focused in an attempt to keep from falling off pace, I counted every person I passed from mile 10 til the finish.  26 people. 

Consistent with 13.1 fashion, we finished on the beach.  The after party was in full swing by the time I arrived and the pizza and beer was flowing freely.   Now, that’s my kind of race:  Running, Friends, Beach Party & Beer!

Photo with my ladies who run EVERYWHERE.  You may remember seeing them in my race report last week from Sunburst in South Bend, IN.  Yep, they ran 13.1 Chicago too!  Myself, Carol, Nicole (who ran a 1:38 which was good for a new PR) & Heather.

13.1 Chicago_Carol Nicole Heather

More bloggy friends:  Pete (The Lakefront Trail), Nina (Run Dance Love) & Myself

13.1 Chicago_Pete & Nina

Then my F’N friends were kind enough to march out on the beach with me for a photo in front of the Chicago skyline!  Melissa, Nichole Z, Ken, Nicole F, myself & Maggie. 

13.1 Chicago_FNRC

Thumbs up for 13.1 Chicago!  I’d definitely run it again if my schedule cooperated!

Reminder – Don’t forget to enter my charity raffle HERE!

** Run 13.1 Chicago ** Amanda – TooTallFritz **

National Running Day …..

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National Running Day?  Say what?  Is this our version of a “Hallmark Holiday”?  If so, hubby forgot to get me that new running skirt that I’ve been eyeing!  Hmph!  Anyhow, I was fortunate enough that this National Day of Running fell on a Wednesday so I was already penciled in with the run club for a few miles.  John, Susan, Me & Ken:

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These 3 are my solid WED night crew.  They show up when it’s cold, rainy & even when it’s hot!  Last night was overcast and threatening rain so I think that scared a “few” people away.  Ironically, we didn’t talk much about running on this “holiday”.  Total Run Nerd fail.  What was our main topic of conversation?  Bikes.

It seems summer  has brought all of us a bit of “bike fever”.  We dream of hammering riding down the trail with the wind at our backs and just enjoying some cross training to give our run legs a break.  Bike fever has several member of the F’N Running Club shopping for new bikes.  Super exciting!  As a result, we will be starting a group cycle.  So if you see us coming your way on a Friday morning, maybe just get out of the way.  Most of us have new bikes.  We are learning how to clip in and out of pedals.  Some of us are triathletes who “road bikers” find notoriously inexperienced and unsafe.  So yeah, if you see us coming, protect yourself because it’s all fun and games for us.  WhooooHoooooo!  And if you’re looking for some fun then bring your bike out on a Friday morning.  We’ll try not to knock you over as we domino to the ground trying to stop at the next stop sign!  Smile

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** Beware!  Runners Take To The Bike ** Amanda – TooTallFritz **

A Family Affair ….

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As a wife and mother who is employed full time with a lengthy commute, exercise is sometimes a luxury rather than a necessity.  I frequently cram it, exercise that is, into the day when it really doesn’t fit.  Like,  I should do that massive pile of laundry BUT I’m going to take Michael and go run with the jog stroller instead.  That  pretty much defines this week.  We crammed a lot into a little time.  Aby’s done with track so it was “make-up” week where we tried to get our life back and still take care of business.

Dentist & Group run.  I’ll spare you the bloody photo of them pulling Aby’s tooth.  However, we followed up the dental visit with a Tuesday run with the F’N Running  Club.  Gotta balance the bad with the good, right?

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“Big People” Appointment & Zoo.  Quality time with the kiddos has been mostly in the car as of late.  One parent present at a time.  Probably won’t win us parent’s of the year but I think they dropped our application years ago, so no worries!  Anyhow, we needed a day off for “big people” stuff and then decided to take the kiddos and hit the zoo for some good ole family fun.  The Dinosaur’s Alive exhibit at Brookfield Zoo was a big hit with us!

Zoo_May 2013    Zoo_May 2013_giraffes     Zoo_May 2013_dino_kids  Zoo_May 2013_dino_color  Zoo_May 2013_dino

Then we hit another FNRC run last night as a family (you can barely see Michael peaking out of the jogger beside Aby in the middle) after I promised Aby ice cream if she could manage to slug a few miles out with Michael and I.

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So we’ve had a busy week but still managed to have some fun.  All my run miles have been slow, back of the pack runs with Michael in the jogger and my shoulders burning because the jogger and I aren’t friends..  I’ve biked on the trainer a few times and tried my best to get the house back in order.  NOW, I’m looking forward to the weekend. 

No family affair this weekend.  I’m heading to Peoria, IL to spend some time with a few of my favorite Team Tough Chik members (Jess, Shannon – The Original Tough Chik, Carmen & Nicki T) as we show Run River City how to put together one TOUGH relay team.  Go Toughies!!!!

If you are headed to Peoria to Run River City, look for our Team Tough Chik relay.  Or the amazing sign that Jess made which I’m sure will pop up around the marathon course. 

Team Tough Chik sign_Jess

** Get Out and Run, With Or Without the Family ** Amanda – TooTallFritz **

Motivation or Lack Thereof….

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Despite the fact that “spring has sprung”, I’ve certainly had very low motivation since the Lansing Marathon.  The marathon didn’t go as I had hoped and it left me feeling empty, tired and “slightly” hopeless.  And then I got sick immediately thereafter.  Yes, I’m finally feeling better but I’m not as strong.  I’m not fast.  I not motivated.  I’m not feeling at all like myself. 

What to do?  Look at more  springtime photos?

Jenny G came late to the party and sent me some lovely photos from Lake Katherine that she snapped over the weekend.

Lake Katherine    Lake Katherine_blooms

And Keith G, ran one of my favorite trails, Waterfall Glen in Darien, IL over the weekend.  Yay for more beautiful photos!!

Waterfall Glen_Keith   Watergfall Glen_keith

I have been running.  And biking.  Nothing too crazy.  A few miles here and there.  I did a 20 mile “long bike” on Saturday on the trainer, then took it outside on Mother’s Day for a 10 mile “long run” last Sunday.  So I’m moving.  Just not focused on time or pace or racing. 

Know that’s it’s okay if you aren’t feeling the need to just “kill” every run.  Sometimes your body and mind need a break.  They will let you know when they do and it’s always wise to listen.  So as of right now, I’m “just” running.  At whatever pace I can manage. I’m just soaking up the sunshine and enjoying how lush our local trails have become with a little bit of rain and heat.

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** Just Keep Running ** Amanda – TooTallFritz **

Spring Brings MORE Runners!!!

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We are starting to have a few nice days here and there in the Midwest.  It seems like winter really doesn’t want to say good bye but alas it is inevitable.  The trees and flowers are blooming and I’m actually considering some outdoor gardening.  Maybe.  Or maybe not.  But I have been enjoying the flowering trees both in my yard and trailside.

Blooming Tree

I’m also enjoying all the activity on our local trails.  The same trails that were somewhat deserted all winter long due to snow, ice and overall treacherous conditions.  The same trails that if I ran at an “off” time, I could run for miles one end without seeing a single soul.  Now the trails are bustling with activity.  Walkers.  Runners.  Bikers.  4 legged friends, both domestic and otherwise. 

The size of our group runs are increasing at a very fast rate too.  During the winter season, it would be the same reliable few, each and every week, but now we have new faces at every run!  Wednesday night runners below!!

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We have so many new faces that I think I’ll buy name tags for next week’s run!!  I was at the trail 2 hours last night and I only managed 5.71 miles but I got to socialize with lots of new and old friends.  Next week, I’ll be more prepared so that I can get my miles in and still enjoy the company those on the trail.  Maybe.  Or maybe not.

Are you noticing new people out on your local trails?  If you’re still running solo, and would like to change that, put a sign up at your local gym, school and/or park and start your own running club!!  YOU can do it!!!  You’re not the only one out there running the trails, no matter how desolate things seemed thru the winter.  Spring has sprung and people are itching to get out and run!  Take advantage of the situation and make new run friends!!

** Happy Running ** Amanda – TooTallFritz ** amanda@tootallfritz.com **