Random Friday Thoughts

Yesterday when I left for work in the morning, it was cold but not yet rainy. I didn't check the weather report or pack any running rain gear (jacket, hat, etc.) As soon as I got to work it started raining and it rained All Day Long. We had our normal Thursday night run scheduled and I sent out a reminder to the group that we will be there rain or shine. The drizzling let up a little bit for our group photo and we had a great turnout despite the weather. I guess my running friends are just as crazy as me to get out there on a rainy day to get in some quality miles.

L to R: Maggie, Amanda C, Amanda W, Brian, Diane (front), Susan, Amy, me

Because Maggie and I are jacket twinsies, a group member asked me where was my matching jacket?

Continuing to make this photo relevant enough to include in the blog.

I didn't have on my matching jacket, but Maggie and I were still twinsies since we both wore the same color. Twinsies without even trying. I like it. Speaking of being twinsies, I just (finally) purchased my "I Run with Fast Women" shirt from Maggie's Spreadshirt site. All proceeds go to the American Cancer Society. You can be twinsies with us too!

Now, about the actual workout. I had a speed workout on the schedule and I wasn't going to let the rain get me down. I mostly met my splits despite some weaving on the trail to avoid puddles, accidentally splashing in some puddles, and being soaked to the core. It felt so much more bada$s to complete the workout in the rain than to have pushed off to another day (it is still raining btw). I feel myself getting stronger and faster. I'm hitting numbers and working towards things I have never done (or would have even attempted) before. I'm really glad that I made the decision to work with a coach as it has increased my focus, alleviated the stress of deciding what type of workout I should be doing (bye bye 400m repeats), and given me confidence in what I can accomplish. Rock N Roll Chicago, I'm coming for you!! I'm already thinking about my race day outfit. (I may do a post on that alone...)

This morning I missed my normal train so I took the later one. That gave me time to stop at my favorite local coffee shop for a cup to take with me on the train. Vanilla ice cream flavored coffee? Yes please!

Don't mind my sleepy eyes

This weekend I'm traveling up to Wisconsin Dells, WI to run a half marathon with two of my friends (Kate and Kate). We ran the Shamrock Shuffle as a group in 2010 and we plan on crossing the finish line together for this race. (Hopefully the photog snaps one of the three of us so we don't run into the same snafu as Bobbi!)