Warning: This post has about 30 different topics that I will jump around to without any transitions. Also, I ran.

Hello from freezing cold Utah where the only time I feel warm is when I am working out:)  Today was a combination of weights (I KNOW… that is two days in a row!?!?) and…

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I tested out the good ol’ running today.   I’ll keep things slow and short for the next few weeks but holy cow, it felt good to run again for a few miles.  

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Over the last year the only injury issues I have really dealt with have been shin splints and some arch/feet problems.  I was too afraid to switch around with more supportive shoes leading up to the marathon but now I have time to test things out.  I think a more supportive shoe will be good for me to use for the majority of my runs and then use my PureCadence for speed/tempo.  Running involves a whole lot of experimenting with what works best with our bodies so let the experimenting begin.

My Lobster shoes brought back some great Boston memories this morning.  

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I was digging through my gym bag to find my keys and found a bag of skittles.  I seriously do not remember putting these in here and I am wondering if Brooke did… if she did, she knows me too well.  

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I picked up the girls and then stopped by a friend’s house for her to wax my eyebrows real quick (this was the first time I have ever done this… I think I am a fan already).

I love how kiddos run approximately 78% of the time.  They don’t have time to waste walking places.  

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We also stopped at Costco and they had the best (and so many) samples ever.  These tamale things were money.  

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Second lunch was this soup with added rotisserie chicken to bulk it up.  It was delicious.  

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I get random emails about food (who knows why;) and I loved these candy cane facts.  1.2 BILLION a year?!?

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While reading about candy canes I had a strong craving for the Chick Fil A peppermint chocolate chip milkshake (probably the best milkshake you will ever have) and then I started googling copycat recipes.  This one looks AMAZING.  Making this might have to become part of our December tradition list. 

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If you have a friend/family member that is about to run a big race I have to share with you what my friends did for me.  Caisa sent out a big text to all of our running friends telling them to send to me a smiling picture with the words, ‘Just some friendly smiles to help you through those 26 miles.  I believe in you because…” and then they each personalized the rest of the message.  It made me cry to get all of the pictures of huge grins on my favorite girl’s faces with such sweet words!  Friends are the best.

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And my last topic… I found my 2016 life/running/everything mantra.  I was listening to a church talk about it today and this phrase hit me hard.  I love the idea of doing our best to love the easy, the hard, the ups, the downs and everything in between.  Bring it ALL on.  

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What did you have for lunch today?

Have a life/running/anything phrase that you are loving lately?

What shoes did you run in today?  Have you tried a bunch of different running shoes or have you stuck to one or two this whole time?

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64 comments

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Lovely post Janae! What is your action plan for shin splints (besides switching up your shoes)? Those buggers seem to get me too!

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HEY YOU!!! Great question… I’ll be strengthening my calves big time, running on softer surfaces more often (love the dirt) and most importantly… work on my cadence. My cadence is pretty low most of the time and so I think I over stride which could lead to the shin splints stuff. What have you tried that has helped??

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When I only run on the TM for several weeks and then go outside, my shin splints get crazy. AND when I go over my sweet spot for mileage (50 mpw), they get crazy too . So I need lots of advice and help! Great future post idea!!

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The only thing which helped me was foam rolling – every single day! I try to keep my steps small but I lose muscle really quickly in my calves so even when I changed my shoes I still had issues, maybe because I only run on the road. Anyway I can’t recommend foam rolling enough!

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I had HORRIBLE shin splints a few years ago, allll the time. Nothing worked for me (different shoes, different stride, foam rolling…) until my little brother told me to “write out” the ABC’s with my feet, three or four times a day. I never had any issues again! Easy and worth a try!

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You should also practice dorsiflexion at the ankle with bands and drills walking on heels and toes, heel raises, etc. to build strength in your tibias aka shins. But ultimately cadence is essential (less contact with ground equals less impact/torsion going up through your tibia bone).

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I love that mantra! And what sweet friends! That would make my day!

I use Asics Nimbus and have since 2006. They are neutral, but supportive enough for me and still light weight. I haven’t had ANY running-related injuries since I started wearing them, so I’m a bit superstitious about changing shoes!

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That is seriously SO SO awesome that you have found your one and true love (aka your running shoes;) Stick with what works and don’t change it… I’d be superstitious too about it if I were you!

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I’m obsessed with the GTS Adrenalines from Brooks. I finally learned that I don’t like any other shoes!

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When I find a shoe that I love I always get stressed—> “what if they stop making them or change them up too much” and then I want to go and buy 50 pairs of them:)

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YES, this! I still have 7 pairs of Brooks PureFlow 2’s. OCD much? just a bit.

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Just found out they are discontinuing my favorite shoe (Adidas Adistar Boost) not redesigning but actually discontinuing :-( SO bummed…guess I’ll be stocking up online before the disappear!

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I hope the more supportive shoes work for you! I tried several different brands and styles over the years before settling on the Brooks Pure Flow for easy days and the Pure Connects for harder runs. No running injuries in them, and they keep my feet from getting too tight (which happens easily).

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Laura, I am so happy that you have found what works best for you! I’ve read that it is great to switch between a few different types of running shoes (like what you are doing) in order to strengthen different muscles in the feet. Tight feet—> ME TOO!!!

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I run in Newtons. I ran in Brooks Adrenaline’s for years and this year I got hit by Achilles Tedonitis again for like the fourth time. It wouldn’t leave. I tried everything and finally ended up back at Newton’s to meet with Danny Abshire who is the “foot whisperer” and one of the founders of Newton’s. He’s helped me before and he makes my inserts. He told me to try the Newtons and they were so comfortable. It didn’t cure me immediately but it did help. I made much better progress and I love them.

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FOURTH TIME?!?! OUCH! Tess, that is so awesome that Danny Abshire was able to help you so much and that you found the shoes that you love. Progress is the best:)

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It always feels nice those first few miles back after taking time off! I’m like you I take at least a week or more off with NO Running. I just don’t understand how so many people jump right back in!

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ME NEITHER!! I didn’t even have the desire to run that first week ha. It is just now starting to come back. Hope you are having an awesome day Sara!

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I find that every couple training cycles, I have to go back to the running shoe store for a new gait analysis. Either my shoe is discontinued and the new version isn’t the same, or new issues begin to crop up that need addressed. I ran in my New Balance 1260v3’s today (on the treadmill because we got hit by the same storm as you over the last day or two, I’m guessing). Need to follow your lead and get into the gym for some strength!

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Okay, that is super interesting about needing a new gait analysis after a few training cycles. It makes so much sense though because our bodies do change and evolve so a different type of shoe is needed. STAY WARM!!!!

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My fave running mantra lately has been “Each step is a step in the right direction.” It’s especially helpful for runs that feel a little slow, it reminds me that I’m getting there as long as I’m running.

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Okay, I LOVE that Sam! Thank you for sharing it!!!! I’ll be using that one too:)

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I run in the hoka stinson lites for stability and hoka cliftons for longer runs and races. They were life changing for my gate and issues with IT band and plantar faschitis. I used to run in asics nimbus with orthotics. I do not need anything now!!!

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You are my gym inspiration!! I’ve been reminding myself that I’m strong lately and go back to my high school mantra of “I am fit, I am strong, I am tough” a lot lately, which is amazing how it can help me push through!

I usually run in my Brooks Pureflows, but I think I’ve graduated sizes which I saw by my toes being horrible after my last marathon so until I get a new pair I’ve been running in my Saucony Kinvaras and Newton Distances, which both have wider toe box for the post-marathon feet!

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I’m currently wearing Brooks Ghost 8 for long runs and Saucony ISO Triumph 2 for faster stuff, but I’m thinking about trying Pure Cadence for speedwork since they’re so light! Maybe they’ll help me get faster and faster :)

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I usually go w/ the Brooks Ravenna or Launch for support on longer/everyday runs and I go w/ the Flow or Cadence for workouts and races. I just watched Elf this weekend, so I’m going with, “I just love smiling. Smiling is my favorite!” It’s hard not to be happy thinking about that one! :)

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Shoot for the moon, but if you reach Mars, well….bonus!

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You have some wonderful friends! That’s so cool that they texted you encouragement.

I had leftover spaghetti and meatballs from last night. Just as good the second time around.

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those lobster shoes are so cute!! isnt it funny how shoes can bring back memories. im pretty sure i have a stress fracture in my left foot :( its not as bad as when i had one in my right foot so i think its just a warning sign, so plenty of elliptical instead of running for me, boo! glad you got a few miles in on the treadmill, cute top too! i love criss-cross backs like that.

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Look at you working those weights! Hopefully that helps, Janae. Beware of waxing your eyebrows: It’s addictive! and expensive habit too. I weened myself as I learned how to tweeze, and I pretty content now, but wow that was hard. Hahah sounds so silly, but it made me so self conscious!

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Yes to switching running shoes regularly. In fact, my podiatrist recommended it. I found that once I began having foot problems it was time for arch supports. A number of my triathlon friends kept telling me I needed them and the pains I was having was a sign that I needed them. I found out the hard way after many problems and injuries that me feet had flattened and it is something that just happens are you get older. Runners are more prone to it and need the support otherwise it manifests itself in other more serious injuries.

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Interesting that you say this, my podiatrist just told me I needed inserts… This coming after foot pain and finding out I have Posterier Tibia Tendonitis. Hoping to recover soon, but it means I have to wear his support with tennis shoes for a couple weeks before I can even transition into the inserts.
I was convinced that my injury was from new winter boots because my running shoes have always been awesome… but now I’m wondering if my feet are just needing more support as I age. I’m 34, but feel like a 50 year old saying that, ha!

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my boss took my coworker and i out to lunch so i had half a grilled cheese sandwich and half a bowl of mac and cheese :) SO good!

ready for the new life phase coming up!!! soon!

And my favorite shoes are the mizuno inspires. I’ve had like 8 pairs probably. LOVE them!

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I’m a Nike lover. I’ve used Brooks and liked them but I always end up returning to my Nikes. I have a few styles that I like.

Lunch was a Mexican style stew – black beans, sweet potatoes, onions, peppers, tomatoes, spinach, mushrooms and red mole seasoning. Filling, delicious and easy peasy. I threw some cheese and avocado on it before eating. I’m pretty glad my husband doesn’t love black beans. More for me. (it was my dinner the other night and I still have some left).

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Grilled chicken and cheese sandwhich hit the spot today for lunch.

Lately mint chocolate chip ice cream has sounded really good to me too

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I used to work at Chick-fil-A and that peppermint milkshake >>>>>. I haven’t had it in two years though… that may need to change. Post-marathon treat, maybe? (If it’s still around on January 3… I remember when I worked there we ran out before December ended!)

The lesson I’ve been trying to remember lately is that, as you always say, running is just running. It’s something I like to do – it isn’t what makes me who I am. So when I’ve been running lately, I’ve been reminding myself that I am valuable and significant and worthy not because of what I can do, but because of who I am in Christ.

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Not a regular commenter, but I figured I’d weigh in. :)
On Friday, I was diagnosed with a stress fracture in my fourth metatarsal, which meant no running for the next 6 weeks. Not exactly what I was hoping to hear going into finals week ;) BUT I have since found the pool and aqua jogging (actually SO fun!). With all the doctor visits and study seshes this week I’ve adopted the mantra,

“Run the mile you are in.”

The “mile” I’m in right now is not ideal. It’s frustrating. It’s painful. But, I’m in it. So I’m gonna “run” with it because “running” is the only way I get to the next “mile.” I know you didn’t hit Goal A last week… And maybe Goal A isn’t the mile you are in. Just like a marathon, the journey is LONG and frustrating. But RUNNING (giving it your all and taking one step at a time) with the one you’re in is the only way you’ll get to the next one. That’s what I’m telling myself at least. :)

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Mighty useful. Make no mistake, I apciaprete it.

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sier:Du klarer deg utmerket foran kamera, Ida!Jeg liker ogsÃ¥ denne nye satsingen til hef. Jeg deler og deler pÃ¥ facebook sÃ¥ halve hagenorge vet ihvertfall om “ingen liker Ã¥ bli lurt”-kampanjen! Nyt ferien!

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I didn’t run today and I might have had ice cream for lunch…..

opps

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Hahahahaha! I love this. In my opinion, there is no need for an ‘oops’!!!

As I was eating ice cream last night I said to my husband “I could eat ice cream for breakfast, lunch and dinner”. All day.everyday. It is seriously the best food ever!!!!

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I love those Boston marathon sneakers!! I wear Brooks GTS 15’s and am looking forward to trying out the 16’s!!
Are you going to run Boston again?

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Lunch – Split a Teddy’s Bigger burger, onion rings and Peppermint Mocha shake with my husband. I kinda wish I had gotten my own shake ;)

Ran in Saucony Ride 8. Been a Saucony wearer for years because they always make them small enough for my little feet!

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I ran in my new Asics Kayano yesterday and ran for 20 minutes! Today I went to a PT and she did graston technique and it felt amazing and she gave me some exercises to do to strengthen my glutes and hammies so I’m hoping I can start and make it through marathon training in the new year!

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I actually ran in the PureCadence today, I’ve been using them lately for speed work and LOVE them. They’re so springy and light. Any easy paced or long run is always in my Ravennas, which have worked for me really well the last couple of years. The Ravenna 6 was not a good update for me but fortunately I have a bunch of Ravenna 5’s stockpiled. ;)

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That text idea is SO sweet

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Janae, you have some amazing friends! So creative and so sweet.

I have the Brooks Lobster Launch shoes too!!! They haven’t made it outside because I don’t want them to get dirty. Isn’t that silly!?!?!?

I’m currently running in the Nike Structure 19s. Never thought I’d be back in Nikes…but they work, so I’m not gonna question it!!! When I find a pair that works for me, I stock up too! The changes they make in the models never feel quite the same. Luckily, the owner at my local running store is phenomenal at fitting based on your build, gait, wear-pattern, road surface, weekly mileage, etc,…so I don’t get too stressed about finding a new pair.

Enjoy the snow!!! We haven’t had any here in NJ yet…so weird that its been in the 60s and 70s all week! But I’m NOT COMPLAINING!

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Do you have to run in Brooks?…I find the Brooks minimal line to have a hard sole/non-flexible & the more supportive shoes are way too much ‘shoe’.

You might like New Balance. I’ve recently been wearing their 1500V and they are incredible. I haven’t tried them for longer distances though and still wearing a shoe with more support in it for now but trying to cut back.

Shin splints: yep, up your cadence. And work on finding the right footwear (that will help heaps) and/or put a shoe insert in your shoe for a little extra support where you need it. It fixed me up years ago when I had issues, then I was able to get rid of the insert later on.

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I ran in brooks adrenalines! I used to always run in pure flows but during my pregnancy and afterwards I had new aches and pains (including shin pain)…. More supportive shoes seem to really help me!

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I wait for the Chick Fil A seasonal milkshakes like they are Christmas morning. I need that copycat in my life.

Day 20 of my runstreak – and I live for Mizuno Wave Inspires and Saucony Guides. I’ll mix it up, but I know where my tried-and-trues are. Love those Lobstah shoes!

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Shoes have definitely been on my mind lately because I’m coming out of recovering from a torn posterior tibial tendon. My ortho stressed to me that I need to wear supportive shoes. I’ve always worn Brooks Adrenaline but experimented with another brand recently. I’m wondering if I should switch back and/or get orthotics. It’s hard coming off of an injury because I don’t want to re-injure myself. I love your lobster shoes!

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I love those running shorts and your new mantra, seems so fitting ;) My lunch today was a butter chicken wrap brought in by my super wonderful co-worker. Free lunch is always the best lunch!

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Love that mantra!! I had a big kale salad with leftover grilled tuna on top for lunch!! Yum!

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I saw you with Heather G and I was like “I need to catch up!!” haha! I love that Brooke put skittles in your bag. So cute!!! And I’m finally back running after a stress fracture in my foot and I know exactly the feeling of being able to run finally. It is like the best feeling EVA!!! haha! Hope you guys are having an awesome week!

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Have you tried the Brooks Launch2? It’s more supportive though neutral but still light and flexible. I love it.

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I’ve been running in the Brooks Ravenna, but unfortunately I’m going to have to branch out. I swear they changed the toe box on the most recent model & now it just rubs me all wrong & is super uncomfortable. I’ve never run in anything besides Brooks. So, I’ll be heading to the running store soon to test out some similar options.

Great to read everyones advice above on the shin splints…

Any tips on how to increase cadence? I try to hard, but it never seems to work. Do you do drills?

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I had the same issue with the Ravennas! I loved the 4 but the 5 & 6 felt too big and the issue was the toe box. I’m wearing Saucony Guides right now the the jury is still out

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I haven’t had lunch yet today but yesterday I ate an entire bag of pre-made salad (Dole southwestern) with turkey and ham added in. (Afterwards I noticed the bag said it served 3.5–oops!) I have been struggling with shoes lately. I have always worn Brooks and I LOVED the Ravenna 4. But when they updated to the 5 I wasn’t crazy about the fit; thought I’d try the 6 in case they had gone back to the same feel of the 4, but no such luck–I liked the 6 even less (they both seemed too big in the toe box). So I decided to try the Saucony Guide this time around; unfortunately, I’m not liking them any better than the Ravenna 5/6. Not sure what I’ll do next!

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I use a few different pairs of running shoes at a time, all are the same brand (saucony) but each are different with level up support. Super supportive ones for easy days, long runs and recovery. The lighter shoes for workouts, etc. I’ve found I am able to get more miles out of the shoes, and my legs recover better in general from training.

I’m all about “owning it” lately with life. If its a good day, sweet embrace it. If something is tough I own it and do what I can do deal with it. Even dealing with other people it helps, realizing what is in my control and what I don’t “own”. Other peoples negativity, actions and words are not in my control so I just let it go. So much less stressful, I’m also much happier without the incessant negativity

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I am currently running with Brooks. I’ve ran in Hokas, Mizuno, and Asics too. I am constantly trying to find the perfect shoe. I deal with plantar fasciitis so finding a good shoe is super important.

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I love that quote so much! It really spoke to me after my learning experience at the STG marathon this year. I rotate through Asics 2000’s and Quantum Gels for most of my training runs. But I love Brooks Pure Cadence for speed work. Happy running!

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Being from New England I had to buy the Boston lobster shoes as well! I love them. I used them as my racing shoes for 2015. I can’t wait to take them to Key West for the Key West Half Marathon next month!

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Those lobster shoes are amazing!! Love them haha.

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A stream of consciousness post can sometimes be the kind that is the most interesting to read. I like those lobster shoes. You’ve got style.

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