tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26130242457795763762024-03-12T19:30:19.718-07:00Grannie Frannie RunsGrannie Frannie Runshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16320045525378931002noreply@blogger.comBlogger45125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2613024245779576376.post-81390762133686803592015-04-18T07:46:00.000-07:002015-04-18T07:46:15.731-07:00Famous... or....Infamous ???I have been absent from the Blogging world lately. I have neither read nor posted for nearly a year. Work, Grandkids, running, and the house renovation have just consumed me. Work, has gotten <b>so</b> busy. If anyone in the Medical Field knows about CPOE and MU, they know what I'm talking about. But, I did have some time on my hands the other evening, and read some of my favorites Blogs on my Dashboard.<br />
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Let me clarify.....I do not like conflict. This has been a subject at work lately. <br />
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So, I really surprised myself when I responded very negatively to a Blog Post. But I had a personal opinion and needed to get it off my chest. I won't go in to detail because the blogger removed the post just a few minutes after I posted my comment. But in that short time, I must have gotten someone's attention because I got 280 views of my blog in one day. In comparison, I think that I got 20 view all last year!!!<br />
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I'm sure everyone who read my comments wanted to know what kind of crazy woman is responding negatively to someone who usually has such positive things to say.<br />
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I did realize, that my Blog had not been updated in a while. AND more importantly, if people are going to check back in now and then - I need to have something for them to see. It's like cleaning the house before company comes over.<br />
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The weather is supposed to be rainy this weekend - Lots of opportunities for a couple catch-up blogsGrannie Frannie Runshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16320045525378931002noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2613024245779576376.post-64952503519138381682013-02-25T08:40:00.003-08:002013-02-25T08:40:53.075-08:002013 Rock N Roll New OrleansFebruary 24, 2013<br />
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I was not planning on running <a href="http://runrocknroll.competitor.com/new-orleans">Rock n Roll New Orleans</a>. I am looking at the budget and spending money on select races. Since I am doing 2 cruises this year, travel money only goes so far. But my friend, Rosalyn, was doing her first marathon at this race. Because we have run together so much for training, she really wanted me to run the first part of the race with her. The course splits near the finish area at City Park, so we would be together for over 12 miles. So, I said, Yes, and registered. Then a month before the race, she gets injured and can not run.<br />
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Luckily, my daughter, Jennifer and friend Brandy were planning on running together. I had run with them at the <a href="http://www.armytenmiler.com/">Army 10 Miler</a> in October and sort of paced them along the way. Their goal was to finish under 3:00. So, I volunteered to pace them for this race<br />
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We watch the weather reports for the week before the race. Rain looked like it was going to be in the picture, but the temperature was going to be in the 60's. Not too bad, but not my preferred running weather. I do not like to be cold, and 60 degrees is cold to me.<br />
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Luckily, we escaped the rain, but it was very windy. Making it feel colder. But I planned accordingly. I alway try to remember and bring trash bags.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MMl6X_ZseQ8/USuPG-ZkI3I/AAAAAAAAArI/ZGbzTDZN78I/s1600/2013+RNR+NO+Jennifer,+Brandy,+Fran+-+in+Trash+bags.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" gsa="true" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MMl6X_ZseQ8/USuPG-ZkI3I/AAAAAAAAArI/ZGbzTDZN78I/s400/2013+RNR+NO+Jennifer,+Brandy,+Fran+-+in+Trash+bags.jpg" width="308" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jennifer, Brandy, and Fran before the race<br />
(borrowed from the website until I can buy)</td></tr>
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Jennifer and I were very familiar with the warmth of a trash bag. At the 2010 Walt Disney half marathon, we ran with trash bags for 3 miles when the weather was in the 20's. Brandy had never had to wear a trash bag - she said that it was a life saver.<br />
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We started in Coral 18 and I had a strategy to finish the race under 3:00. At about mile 7, I was having a hard time doing long division in my head and thought that we wouldn't finish under 3:00. I probably picked up the pace a little - but we had actually been fine. We finished in 2:51:43 - Goal met.<br />
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It was still a little cool for running for me. When we finished, we weren't interested in post run festivities or the beer, just walked nearly a mile to catch the bus back to downtown. I wish the buses could be a little closer, but the process worked very well. Corrals were build for runners to enter and 5 buses loaded simultaneously. Very good Rock n Roll. There were plenty of buses - just lots of people to ride them.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More Bling to add to the collection</td></tr>
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Long drive back to Leesville. I would not have minded resting a day leisurly in New Orleans - but needed to get back to work. Overall - good race - I love to run in New Orleans. In fact we will be back in New Orleans in 5 weeks to run the <a href="http://www.ccc10k.com/">Crescent City Classic</a> before getting on the cruise. <br />
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<br />Grannie Frannie Runshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16320045525378931002noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2613024245779576376.post-56195965097432064082013-01-14T13:51:00.001-08:002013-01-14T13:55:23.506-08:00What is in store for 2013?Is 2013 going to be different, better, or worse? Who knows, but the one thing that I know for sure is that this is going to be the first time in 30 years that I am not going to be able to check the Married box on my tax return.<br />
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Tomorrow is the 15th month anniversary of Steve being killed. If nothing else, life is different. Certainly not better.<br />
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But the thing that really keeps me going is running. It's the only thing in my life that still seems the same. Since Steve didn't do any running after he retired from the Army, I would run alone or with other friends. He was at many races and events as my support person though. If I traveled and he didn't want to come, he would call me afterwards to see how I did. I miss talking to him so much. It is pretty much a one sided conversation now.<br />
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I have been working hard trying to get my Half Marathon time under 2:05 and my 5K time under 26:00. I can run forever at a slow pace, but I may just not have enough fast twitch fibers to go any faster. So, those continue to be my goals for 2013<br />
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<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">As of now, this is what is planned so far for 2013</span><br />
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<span style="color: black;">January 20 - <a href="http://www.thelouisianamarathon.com/">Louisiana Marathon</a> - Baton Rouge, LA - Support person for Jennifer, Brandy, and Lindsay</span><br />
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February 2 - <a href="http://www.active.com/running/sulphur-la/park-to-park-half-marathon-and-1miler-2013">Park to Park Half Marathon</a> - Sulphur, LA<br />
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February 9 - <a href="http://www.active.com/running/leesville-la/mumbo-gumbo-mardi-gras-5k-2013">Mumbo Gumbo Mardi Gras 5k</a> - Leesville, LA - <br />
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Febrary 24 - <a href="http://runrocknroll.competitor.com/new-orleans">New Orleans Rock N Roll Half Marathon</a> - New Orleans, LA<br />
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March 9 - <a href="http://www.redriverrun.com/home.html">Red River Run (10K)</a> - Alexandria, LA<br />
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March 20 - <a href="http://www.ccc10k.com/">Crescent City Classic (10K)</a> - New Orleans, LA<br />
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March 30 - April 6 - <a href="http://www.royalcaribbean.com/findacruise/ships/class/ship/home.do?shipClassCode=VY&shipCode=NV&br=R">Caribbean Cruise</a> with family<br />
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May 4 - Armadillo Stampede (5K) - Leesville, LA<br />
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June 1 - <a href="http://www.hospitalhillrun.com/">Hospital Hill Half Marathon</a> - Kansas City, MO (tentative - was going to run with Jodi - but she won't be able to run this year)<br />
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September - <a href="http://www.princess.com/learn/ships/co/index.html">Alaska Cruise</a> with friends<br />
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There will be a few Triathlons - but haven't decided which ones<br />
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I am also looking for a new Fall half marathon - I need to stay focused and train or I will blimp out on the 2 cruises I am taking this year.<br />
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There will also be time for babies - the Twins are 10 days old now and new grandson is due the end of February.<br />
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<br />Grannie Frannie Runshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16320045525378931002noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2613024245779576376.post-77409286332552491892012-12-12T15:01:00.002-08:002012-12-12T15:01:35.966-08:0012-12-12 - Celebrating an Anniversary Alone<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8bZZBrikcIA/UMkMptJinZI/AAAAAAAAAp8/5kCL-PtvDFU/s1600/BFCU+12-12-12+12-12.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img bea="true" border="0" height="124" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8bZZBrikcIA/UMkMptJinZI/AAAAAAAAAp8/5kCL-PtvDFU/s320/BFCU+12-12-12+12-12.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I have always been fascinated by repeating dates. I reenlisted in the Army once on 7-7-77. So I have kept my eye on repeating dates as they approached. A couple of years ago, I realized that our wedding anniversary would be 12-12-12. I just thought that it would be some sort of magical day. How many marriages last 31 years?? I even began to notice the Louisiana State Inspection Sticker on my car in 2007. The inspection sticker said 8-8 (it would expire in August 2008). So I strategically got my car inspected on the first date of the month after it was due. My goal was to keep the car until at least December 2012. So each year, I was so proud of myself as the stickers began: 9-9, 10-10, 11-11.<br />
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Then when Steve died, the significance sort of died also. It wasn't as fun any more. I have a 12-12 sticker now, but the next one is sort of a let down. If I get it this month, it will read 12-13 or I could wait until January and the sticker will be 1-14. Not any numerical significance with either choice. Theoretically, doing this for 10 years has saved me a whopping $10.00.<br />
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So this day has been kind of rough, several mini meltdowns. For some reason this year has been harder than last year. We probably wouldn't have done anything today since it is in the middle of the week. But, I know that I would have gotten flowers or a plant. And Steve would have figured out something to get me that I would have really enjoyed even though I would have told him not to get me anything. He has gotten me great presents over the years.<br />
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So when a plant arrived today, the tears just started flowing.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rn8C6SqtQJI/UMkHrTHMzJI/AAAAAAAAApY/DTSe8eSnaNg/s1600/2012+Anniversary+card.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img bea="true" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rn8C6SqtQJI/UMkHrTHMzJI/AAAAAAAAApY/DTSe8eSnaNg/s1600/2012+Anniversary+card.JPG" /></a></div>
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Obviously, it was from someone who knew me well. My daughter, Jennifer, had sent me a plant.<br />
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Daughters just don't get any better than this.<br />
Grannie Frannie Runshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16320045525378931002noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2613024245779576376.post-43598887754105895082012-12-06T04:19:00.001-08:002012-12-06T04:19:24.513-08:00ANOTHER Catch Up Blog......Time flies even when you aren't having fun. 10 weeks since the last time that I blogged. Unfortunately, this is becoming a bad habit. I try to keep busy. Keeping busy helps with depression, but then all of a sudden out of the blue something hits me hard and I just start crying. I usually snap out of it quickly. Life is still so hard without Steve. I do find comfort every week reading <a href="http://www.widowsspeakup.com/">Widows Speak Up!</a> There I have a network of women who really understand what it is like to loose their husband.<br />
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Jim from <a href="http://50after40.blogspot.com/2012/12/baton-rouge-beach-marathon-review.html">50 after 40</a>, met my daughter, Jennifer, at <a href="http://teamrwb.org/">Team RWB</a> at the Baton Rouge Half Marathon Expo. He was kind enough to mention my blog in his. That sort of puts pressure on me to keep mine up. This post has been in draft form for a while, finally getting the pictures in. <br />
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<strong><span style="background-color: white; color: blue;">October 6, 2012 - Geaux Blue Triathlon, Lake Charles, LA</span></strong><br />
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1st Triathlon ever held by McNeese University. Overall, was very good especially for 1st timers. Only had 1 or 2 people run the wrong route on the run. My friend Julie did her 2nd Triathlon and her twin sister Jennifer (15) won her age group.<br />
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<strong><span style="color: #cc0000;">October 18 - 21, 2012 - Army Ten Miler and trip to Philadelphia</span></strong><br />
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The Army Ten Miler is one of my favorite races. I love running in DC. Plus the trip gives me an opportunity to visit something historical. Jennifer and Brandy wanted to visit cupcake bakeries in Georgetown. I went for a few - then had enough calories. I headed over to Arlington National Cemetary to see the <a href="http://www.womensmemorial.org/">Women in Military Service Memorial</a>. We just happened to arrive when they were having the 15 year anniversary ceremony. For any woman who has worn a military uniform, this has to be on your "must do" list.<br />
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I had originally had a goal of finishing the ATM in 1:45, but my training just hadn't been what it needed to be. So I thought what a good opportunity to run with my daughter and just run for fun and see the sights. I had a good time running with Snow White.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rqjL7i3T-4E/UMCGcA5Y9qI/AAAAAAAAAoI/NZR-zfnmmWw/s1600/Fran,+Jennifer,+&+Brandi+2012+ATM+cropped.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" nea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rqjL7i3T-4E/UMCGcA5Y9qI/AAAAAAAAAoI/NZR-zfnmmWw/s1600/Fran,+Jennifer,+&+Brandi+2012+ATM+cropped.jpeg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I look like I am in pain - Jennifer and Brandy are happy</td></tr>
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After running, we hit the Hooah Tents, but the Gumbo was all gone. We showered then caught the Metro downtown and took Amtrak to Philadelphia for a short 2 day visit. I love traveling by train. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vWLcvPI7AYE/UL_GH5AGS4I/AAAAAAAAAnY/J7dqLoRxCbA/s1600/Fran,+Jennifer,+Rita+10-2012+rotated.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" nea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vWLcvPI7AYE/UL_GH5AGS4I/AAAAAAAAAnY/J7dqLoRxCbA/s1600/Fran,+Jennifer,+Rita+10-2012+rotated.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fran, Jennifer, and Rita (Steve's Mother)</td></tr>
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<strong><span style="color: blue;">October 27, 2012 - Steve "Hootie" Gibson Memorial Poker Run</span></strong><br />
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My daughter Jennifer, and members of the <a href="http://www.combatvet.org/">CVMA</a> organized a Memorial Poker Run in Steve's honor. The poker run was an overwhelming success and raised nerly $8,000 for the <a href="http://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/">Wounded Warrior Project</a> and the <a href="http://wtc.army.mil/about_us/wtu.html">Fort Polk Warrior Transition Unit</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HkeXqnbyvY4/UL9uJzrldRI/AAAAAAAAAko/wTg2A4K8ilk/s1600/Steve's+Portrait+by+Vaneesa.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" nea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HkeXqnbyvY4/UL9uJzrldRI/AAAAAAAAAko/wTg2A4K8ilk/s1600/Steve's+Portrait+by+Vaneesa.JPG" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vanessa Price's painting of my husband took me by suprise.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8957OXOKwr8/UL9xeYhjUNI/AAAAAAAAAlA/uJT2uWUI5Ys/s1600/Jennifer+&+Fran+Poker+Run+10-27-2012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" nea="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8957OXOKwr8/UL9xeYhjUNI/AAAAAAAAAlA/uJT2uWUI5Ys/s1600/Jennifer+&+Fran+Poker+Run+10-27-2012.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jennifer did a great job organizing the Poker Run.<br />
We are wearing the T-shirt that she designed.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kHlEcIQwaMk/UL97VkxVWMI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/q76bfJujdJg/s1600/Mike+Long+again.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" nea="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kHlEcIQwaMk/UL97VkxVWMI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/q76bfJujdJg/s1600/Mike+Long+again.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thanks Mike for the kind words</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eh23cUYHOaQ/UL97vNLc68I/AAAAAAAAAmY/9G8mFQnL964/s1600/Infirmary+sign+10-27-2012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" nea="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eh23cUYHOaQ/UL97vNLc68I/AAAAAAAAAmY/9G8mFQnL964/s1600/Infirmary+sign+10-27-2012.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sign at the Infirmary, one of the stops of the poker run</td></tr>
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<strong><span style="color: #274e13;">November 5, 2012 - Philadelphia Eagles vs New Orleans Saints</span></strong></div>
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<span style="color: black;">One of the raffle items at the poker run were 3 box seat tickets behind the Philadelphia Eagle sidelines for the Monday Night football game between the Philadelphia Eagles and New Orleans Saints. Of Course, since Steve was from Philadelphia, we have always been Eagles fans. I bid on the tickets and WON!! This year has not been good. This was a game where maybe the Eagles could turn there season around. Well it was not to happen. We did have a great time at the game, even if they did loose.</span></div>
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<strong><span style="color: #783f04;">November 17, 2012 - CenLa Fall Festival Half Marathon</span></strong><br />
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I was trying so hard for a PR. I have been trying to get under 2:05 for the last 3 half marathons. I keep missing the PR. Something messes up my training. Usually an injury but lately I just didn't feel like doing some of the training runs. </div>
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My friend, Linsay, offered to run with me. She is an awsome runner and so much faster than me. So I think that I started out a little too fast, but felt good. By the time I hit Miles 7 - 9 , I just couldn't keep the same pace. I ended up running 2:06:20 - just need to work on 80 seconds.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Aq5nX34eFoo/UL_KR6T9fJI/AAAAAAAAAnw/gxg0Z2QJdG0/s1600/Lindsay+&+Fran+before+CenLa+half+11-17-12.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" nea="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Aq5nX34eFoo/UL_KR6T9fJI/AAAAAAAAAnw/gxg0Z2QJdG0/s1600/Lindsay+&+Fran+before+CenLa+half+11-17-12.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lindsay and me before the CenLa Half<br />
Perfect weather for a run</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WnRH0FUCYLQ/UMCHI_TZozI/AAAAAAAAAoQ/JKPFJ40rwsE/s1600/Lindsay+with+Flag+&+Fran+CenLa+Half+11-12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" nea="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WnRH0FUCYLQ/UMCHI_TZozI/AAAAAAAAAoQ/JKPFJ40rwsE/s320/Lindsay+with+Flag+&+Fran+CenLa+Half+11-12.jpg" width="275" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At Mile 9, I am slowing down, but Lindsay looks like she could run forever. <br />
Yes, she carried the flag the entire half marathon</td></tr>
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<strong><span style="color: red;">December 1, 2012 - City of Lights 5k, Natchitoches, LA</span></strong><br />
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Still trying to get a PR in the 5K. This is the perfect course. Along the Cane River in Natchitoches - completely flat. We started out great and I felt fine until a little after the 2 mile point. Had to slow down. Julie was feeling better than me so took off. My time was 27:28. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BP9j1TSszQ4/UMCMblHVWmI/AAAAAAAAAo4/2dA1G4mVK3I/s1600/Julie+&+Fran+before+5K+12-1-2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" nea="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BP9j1TSszQ4/UMCMblHVWmI/AAAAAAAAAo4/2dA1G4mVK3I/s1600/Julie+&+Fran+before+5K+12-1-2012.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Julie & me before the City of Light 5K<br />
I grabbed a random stranger to take our picture<br />
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Besides having very lofty goals of PRing in the 5K and the Half Marathon within the next few months, both of my sons are expecting additions to their families. Scott and his wife are expecting TWIN girls and Chris and his wife are expecting a boy. Plenty to keep Grannie Frannie busy. Plans are to blog a little more often. As I tell Lindsay when she is adding weights to my routine, "We'll see."Grannie Frannie Runshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16320045525378931002noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2613024245779576376.post-86799290469195236762012-09-13T13:37:00.000-07:002012-09-13T13:37:57.268-07:00Catch up BlogIt has been over 6 weeks since I have posted on the blog. In some ways, that is a good thing. It means that I am keeping busy and not dwelling on being alone. This time of year is going to be so hard on me every year. I keep thinking, "Steve was doing this", "We went here for dinner", or "Steve and I did ..." Every memory of the last time we had done something together. Where is Dr Brown and his <a href="http://backtothefuture.wikia.com/wiki/Flux_capacitor">flux capacitor</a> when you need him. Oh to be transported back to the fall of October 2011 and to be able to change history. But then Dr Brown always warned Marty about changing history and the consequences that would result.<br />
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So, I just go on and try to figure out life without Steve. This life of course revolves around Family and exercise (although my binge eating is counter-acting the exercise. I have put on 8 pounds in the last few months)<br />
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<strong>August 18, 2012 - Miles Perret Cancer Services Triathlon - Lafayette, LA</strong><br />
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This was a charity fund raiser for a Lafayette Cancer Service center. Very Casual Triathlon on the Campus of ULL. This was my friend, Julie's, first Triathlon. She beat me by about a minute<br />
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We were eating at IHOP after the triathlon and a man happened to notice our T-shirts. He commented to Julie that the Cancer Center had helped his wife get a wig at no charge while she was undergoing chemotherapy. So it sounds like our money went to a good cause.<br />
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<strong>August 26, 2012 - Women's Half Marathon - Bloomington, MN.</strong><br />
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When we were in Minnesota last year for Grandma's Marathon. Jennifer saw an advertisement for the Women's Half Marathon in Bloomington, MN that would be held on her 30th birthday. What better way to spend a birthday. Little did we know that so much would happen over the next year. But we were already registered and it was an opportunity to take Cole and Corbin to see the MN grandparents.<br />
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The course was so hilly - I still finished in a decent time of 2:20 - but I had been trying to get a PR. By mile 2, I knew that the PR was out the window - So there was quite a bit of walking.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9gyvNXQao_I/UFI4bDVP_mI/AAAAAAAAAfw/DBhfLNADGyc/s1600/Cole%252C+Grandpa+%2526+Grandma+Lohrke+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" hea="true" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9gyvNXQao_I/UFI4bDVP_mI/AAAAAAAAAfw/DBhfLNADGyc/s320/Cole%252C+Grandpa+%2526+Grandma+Lohrke+%25281%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cole with the Minnesota grandparents</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6cYX310_e64/UFI47kB9ISI/AAAAAAAAAf4/wTv8yxk-a-Y/s1600/Brandy,+Fran,+&+Jennifer+after+2012+WHM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" hea="true" height="191" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6cYX310_e64/UFI47kB9ISI/AAAAAAAAAf4/wTv8yxk-a-Y/s320/Brandy,+Fran,+&+Jennifer+after+2012+WHM.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brandy, Fran, and Jennifer - after enduring the Women's Half Marathon</td></tr>
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<strong>September 8, 2012 - Cole's 1st Birthday Party</strong><br />
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Although Cole turned 1 on September 1st, this was the first opportunity to have a party. The weather was good, except for the Love Bugs. <a href="http://lohrkefamily.blogspot.com/2012/09/happy-birthday-cole.html">Jennifer's Blog</a> has more pictures, but here area few more.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xULtmWIOXyM/UFI8AFkCxiI/AAAAAAAAAgc/N1TQF-st2Ok/s1600/Cole+with+baloon+(1)+9-8-2012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" hea="true" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xULtmWIOXyM/UFI8AFkCxiI/AAAAAAAAAgc/N1TQF-st2Ok/s320/Cole+with+baloon+(1)+9-8-2012.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cole had fun with the balloon</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v2Kowx6DJ_0/UFI7noGbmwI/AAAAAAAAAgQ/reNunclqZF8/s1600/Fran+Holding+Cole+(1)+9-8-12.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" hea="true" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v2Kowx6DJ_0/UFI7noGbmwI/AAAAAAAAAgQ/reNunclqZF8/s320/Fran+Holding+Cole+(1)+9-8-12.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grannie Frannie and the birthday boy</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BD2-8p7xHks/UFI8PGevkqI/AAAAAAAAAgk/7cCgHB56G6o/s1600/CIMG6213.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" hea="true" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BD2-8p7xHks/UFI8PGevkqI/AAAAAAAAAgk/7cCgHB56G6o/s320/CIMG6213.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cole was so tired - barely kept his eyes open </td></tr>
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<strong>September 9, 2012 - CajunMan Triathlon - Lafayette, LA</strong><br />
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I did this triathlon 2 years ago. I remember it being very hot around the airport and I preferred pool swims to the open water. But some friends were doing this one and decided to do it again. I was not very well trained, so the goal was just to finish. I must say that thanks to my trainers who helped me get in better shape than I was 2 years ago. My swim and run were both faster than in 2010. The bike was slower - but then this year because of construction, the bike was 21.3 miles.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z5vWiXXPhQc/UFI-M1cap7I/AAAAAAAAAgs/JJFFmUabE8c/s1600/Fran+getting+out+of+water+09-09-12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" hea="true" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z5vWiXXPhQc/UFI-M1cap7I/AAAAAAAAAgs/JJFFmUabE8c/s320/Fran+getting+out+of+water+09-09-12.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fran still looking happy after 800meter swim</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kmnXFA8BFks/UFI-T6x6lJI/AAAAAAAAAg0/egSMlUi8Dzc/s1600/Fran+finishing+triathlon+run+9-9-12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" hea="true" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kmnXFA8BFks/UFI-T6x6lJI/AAAAAAAAAg0/egSMlUi8Dzc/s320/Fran+finishing+triathlon+run+9-9-12.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fran finishing the run</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cvAUl9fRR2c/UFJCYSj--ZI/AAAAAAAAAhY/qBz9c3T8ZTc/s1600/Lindsay+Carrying+Old+Glory+-+CajunMan+2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" hea="true" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cvAUl9fRR2c/UFJCYSj--ZI/AAAAAAAAAhY/qBz9c3T8ZTc/s320/Lindsay+Carrying+Old+Glory+-+CajunMan+2012.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My hero - Lindsay (my trainer) carried Old Glory <br />
the entire run in support of Team RWB</td></tr>
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Well, that about wraps up the last 6 weeks. My next post will probably be after the New England / Canada cruise that I am going on with the in-laws next week. Another event to look forward to - so I don't keep looking back.<br />
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<br />Grannie Frannie Runshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16320045525378931002noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2613024245779576376.post-26783586591886664242012-07-30T09:21:00.002-07:002012-07-30T09:22:15.440-07:00RocketChix II - July 28, 2012This was my first triathlon is a year. Last year I did 5 triathlons, but this year, I just couldn't get motivated to do the training. But my trainer, Lindsay did one earlier and talked about how fun it ws and my friend, Julie just got a new bike and wants to do triathlons....so I got inspired to start training.<br />
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I don't think that I trained enough. But, I am registered for 3 more over the next few months, so all I can do is improve.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Note to Self...Braid my hair before I stand in the sun for an hour<br />
and my hands are all sweaty.</td></tr>
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Christy, Heidi, and Fran before the tri</div>
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Fran waiting in the swim line</div>
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And she's off...</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Running toward transition</td></tr>
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The Swim and Bike portions felt good. But they must have really drained my energy tank. By the time that I got to the run, I was exhausted. It was hot, but I just felt empty. Usually on the run, I am passing people easily. I still passed people, but got passed by others also. It just means that I need to train more for the next triathlon on August 18<br />
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350 meter Swim: 9:41<br />
11.3 mile Bike: 42:09 (16.1)<br />
2 mile Run: 19:14 (9:37)<br />
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Even though I didn't feel like this was one of my best races, I stil placed 133rd out of 274 (road bike division) and placed 6th out of 21 (F - 55-59 Division)<br />
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Fran, Heidi, and Christy - RocketChix</div>
Grannie Frannie Runshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16320045525378931002noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2613024245779576376.post-14959777347970072972012-07-06T13:57:00.001-07:002012-07-06T13:57:20.543-07:004th of July with the CorbinatorI started out the day going on an "easy" run with some friends. My <a href="http://rwsmartcoach.rwsmartcoach.com/rwsmartcoach/53717/index?cm_mmc=RW_NavLink-_-pricetest-_-53717-_-211961&keycode=211961">Runner's World SmartCoach plan</a> called for 2 miles at 10:45. My friends are faster than me. They will run a 9:00 minute pace and just chat away the whole time. When I am at a 9:00 minute pace, I am just lucky to breathe. I had to ask them to slow down a bit so that I would be able to hang with them. I ended up running 3.24 miles in 30:51 (9:31 pace). So much for a slow / easy run.<br />
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Andrew, my son-in-law, was coming over to chain saw for a while. In my ever constant vigil to get the property looking better (part of Fran's therapy), I am clearing around trees, fence lines, and wood piles that have been over grown. <strong><span style="color: red;">Note to self:</span></strong> <em>When you see that cute little oak or pine tree growing, pull it out or 5 years from now it will be a very big tree that you have to have chain sawed or pulled out with a tractor.</em> Jennifer had to work, so I watched the boys while Andrew chain sawed.<br />
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Of course, it was very hot. Andrew cut quite a few of the trees down, then he started cutting away at the Pampas grass. I vow that the Pampas grass will be gone before the fall!!! The sound of the chain saw was another emotional melt down for me. I remember times when Steve would be out cutting up fire wood or a downed tree. Then it was my job to stack the wood after he cut it. Good memories.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hqBis96N12Q/T_cGVH5hJ-I/AAAAAAAAAbo/F4ZFU7aAvNM/s1600/steve+cutting+fallen+tree+8-1-04.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="256" sca="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hqBis96N12Q/T_cGVH5hJ-I/AAAAAAAAAbo/F4ZFU7aAvNM/s320/steve+cutting+fallen+tree+8-1-04.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steve cutting a downed tree August 2004. This was the month before <br />
Hurricane Rita came through and we ended up with 5 more downed trees</td></tr>
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Corbin and I headed to the pool about noon. I wished that I had taken a picture of him swimming - it would have made for a better blog. Next time. I swam laps with some friends while Corbin played in the shallow end. When I finished swimming laps, Corbin and I played throwing a ball. Good way to cool off in the heat.<br />
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Freedom Fest was scheduled for Fort Polk from 4:00pm - Fireworks. I hadn't seen fireworks in so many years, so wanted to go this year. The 4th of July wasn't a major holiday for me personally, so I almost always volunteered to take call when I worked in surgery. I couldn't go an watch the fireworks because I wouldn't have been able to get out and get to the hospital in 30 minutes. Since I am not in surgery anymore, I have a bit more freedom.<br />
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We went to Freedom Fest about 6pm, parked in the designated parking lot, and took the shuttle bus to the field where everything was set up. Gretchen Wilson was already playing and there were thousands of people enjoying the show.<br />
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The 4 lanes of Hwy 467 were blocked off for vendors and the smell of grease made me hungry, but Corbin had his eyes on the kid section with jump houses, slides, and games to play. So we headed over to the carnival section. All the games were sponsored by military units and support groups for fund raising. So it was a good cause.<br />
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First thing Corbin saw was a basketball game. He made the goal at least twice and was very proud of his 39cent water pistol that he won.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Corbin waiting his turn to throw the basketball.<br />
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Corbin making his free throw</div>
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The next event was the dunking booth. One of the commanders was sitting in the booth and was visibly wet from being dunked so many times. There were several small children in front of Corbin. Most couldn't hit the target or not hit it hard enough to cause the drop. So they were allowed to just come hit the target so the man would drop.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Corbin at the Dunking Booth</td></tr>
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Corbin got up there with his six balls. I just figured that he would end up pushing the target with his hand. On his second ball, he hit the target hard enough and in the right spot to sink the commander!!<br />
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Corbin spent quite a while jumping and sliding. Then it was on to Pizza and Dippin Dots.<br />
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We listened to the 50 gun salute to the nation, then a concert by .38 special. Finally it was dark enough for the fireworks to begin. Very good fireworks. Back to the car and home by 10:30. Long, but very good day.Grannie Frannie Runshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16320045525378931002noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2613024245779576376.post-14816239873213344082012-06-30T12:59:00.000-07:002012-06-30T13:10:35.352-07:00Watermellon Festival 5K<br />
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I love running the local races. Today, I ran a 5K race which is part of the <a href="http://www.beauregardwatermelonfestival.com/">Beauregard Watermelon Festival</a> (<em>Louisiana has a festival celebrating something every weekend of the year). </em>Last month, in another local 5K, I ran 27:03 - my goal for this race was 26:00.<br />
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I probably haven't trained enough for such a lofty goal. But, I was going to try anyway. I have been doing speed work with Lindsay, my trainer, and doing my SmartCoach workouts. The ultimate goal (for now) is to run the <a href="http://www.womenshalfmarathon.com/bloomington-mn/">Bloomington Women's Half Marathon</a> under 2:00. <br />
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The race started at 7:30am. But in Louisiana, it can still be rather warm and humid. It was probably 80 degrees and 80% humidity by the time the race started. The is a loop course with several inclines and hills. The heat and hills took its toll on me. I also may have started out the first half mile way too fast. My Garmin didn't quite catch up to me for about a half mile. At first it said I was running at a 16:00 pace then all of a sudden it said 7:30. For the rest of the race it acted normally. But what do you expect from a Garmin Forunner 201 - I know that it is at least 8 years old.<br />
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Time according to Garmin: 0:27:46</div>
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Garmin Distance: 3.17</div>
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Garmin Pace: 8:45</div>
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Mile 1: 8:22</div>
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Mile 2: 8:49</div>
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Mile 3: 9:11</div>
.1: 1:24<br />
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My friend, Julie ran with me. She is a faster runner than I am, but has only been running about once a week, so she thought that she would have trouble keeping up with me. WRONG... I probably slowed her down. I was struggling the last 2 miles and her little motivation syaings kept me going. She kept me focused by saying, "make it to the fire truck", "run to the next corner", and "run to the top of the hill." It was a tough race for me. I know that I would have finished a lot slower if she hadn't been there. Thanks Julie.<br />
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I did win the women's 55-59 age group. One benefit of staying active as I get older. Awards were only 1 deep since it was a small race. There is usually someone faster than me in the local races. She must have overslept this morning.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and Julie before the race</td></tr>
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So, now the plan is to keep training for the Half Marathon in August. There are several 5Ks in the fall and winter. I will just have to keep my goal and work harder.Grannie Frannie Runshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16320045525378931002noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2613024245779576376.post-66106478581992402932012-06-29T18:03:00.001-07:002012-06-29T18:03:44.228-07:00Master Plan....baby steps<br />
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Steve and Fran's Farmhouse - as my children have named it on Facebook is small. It is approximately 1400 square feet. But in this house we have lived for nearly 22 years and raised 3 children. For nearly the entire time that we lived in the house, I have been talking about remodeling. It has fondly been called <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Fran's Master Plan.</strong></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steve and Fran's Farmhouse - desperately in need of being bigger</td></tr>
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Every time Steve would want to fix something or upgrade something, I would say, "But very soon we are going to be remodeling. Do we want to spend the money then just tear it down?" Well, I said that for nearly 20 years. Steve would give me one of his looks that said "we aren't ever going to remodel, but I will humor you for a while."<br />
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Last year though, I made a break through. I finally hired a designer who had drawn up remodeling plans. I showed Steve some of the first drafts. He gave me his input and revisions were made. I found the last draft in my e-mail in-box 2 days after Steve was killed. <br />
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Now the dilemma - a house that was way too small for Steve and me seems too big for me alone. So, I'm not making any major renovation decisions for at least a year. But that will be a blog farther down the road.<br />
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In the mean time....My friend Rachel, had a house built several years ago. She tiled the entire house by herself. She has listened to my remodeling stories for years and came up with an idea. She had lots of tile left over from her house - She either bought too much, or the tile wasn't the right type, or not the right color. She wasn't able to take any of the tile back. So she offered to come over and teach / help me tile the 2 bathrooms.<br />
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This wasn't a major project, but it was more than I have done in 20 years on the house. I would like to think that Steve was proud of me that I finally did <b><i>something.</i></b><br />
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #351c75;">(Pardon the crazy blog. I probably need some technical help with cutting, pasting, and getting things in the right place. Trying to get better.)</span></i><br />
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We have 2 bathroom. Both are very small. Bathroom number one is in the Master Bedroom and the other is called the Kid's Bathroom<br />
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Master Bath Before renovation began.</div>
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Carpet has been in the house for over 22 years.</div>
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Kid's Bathroom. The carpet was reomoved</div>
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about 12 years ago. It had just a plain cement</div>
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floor (I actually painted it last summer when</div>
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Steve's sisters were coming to visit.</div>
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<br />I had some prep work to do before we could begin the tile work. I had to take out the carpet from the Master Bathroom. When I pulled up the carpet, I discovered old linoleum that had to removed also. <br />
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The linoleum had a very strong PineSol smell to it</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scraping off Very old linoleum </td></tr>
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So, I took off work on Monday - a dedicating Tile day. Rachel showed me how to do everything, then we both got to work. She was a bit faster than me, but I got better as better as we went along.<br />
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Rachel (Tile Guru) came dressed for the Tile Party</div>
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Fran mixing the cement</div>
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Fran spreading the cement and placing tiles</div>
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All the tiles are in place ...Cement needs to dry</div>
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Laying the grout</div>
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This can get messy...but fun...just like playing in the mud</div>
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Master Bath - Finished</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="padding-top: 4px; text-align: center;">Kid's Bathroom Finished<br /><br /></td></tr>
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</div>Grannie Frannie Runshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16320045525378931002noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2613024245779576376.post-49176226574517083782012-06-22T06:16:00.000-07:002012-06-22T06:16:13.587-07:00Last year was betterLast year at this time, I was getting to the gym nearly every monring by 0500 (that is 5am for civilians). Last year, I was spinning, running, doing brick workouts, or some kind of strength training on a regular basis. Last year, I had 2 marathons, 6 half marathons, and 4 triathlons scheduled. Last year, I jumped out of bed at 0405 when the alarm went off without a problem (no matter what time I went to bed).<br />
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Last year my husband, Steve was alive.<br />
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This year sucks. I can't get into any kind of routine. I'm not tired at night so stay up late, then the next morning, I am exhausted and don't want to get out of bed. I am running and training, but not with the same enthusiasm. I have some races and triathlons scheduled - but I don't have Steve here to share my progress and accomplishments.<br />
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I just found a blog <a href="http://www.widowsspeakup.com/">Widows Speak Up!</a>. It was comforting to find so many women who feel the same way that I do. The emotions that I have built up are just such a roller coster of being mad, sad, angry, depressed, overwhelmed, lonely, and having such an empty feeling inside.<br />
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I know this is all normal feelings. I never knew that loosing a spouse could hurt so bad. Before this happened to me, I had no idea what an empty feeling I would have without Steve. I don't think that I can come close to describing it. <br />
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At times, I am so overwhelmed with everything that has to be done. I wasn't a great housekeeper before Steve died and now I seem to be even more of a pack-rat. I don't want to let go of a single memory. I have 11 acres of land that must be taken care of - thankfully, only about 5 need to be cut and bush-hogged. So, I now know how to drive a tractor. Everyday tasks like cooking, cleaning, and shopping are so hard.<br />
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But, there are so many reasons for me to try to overcome this depression that I am in. I have 3 wonderful children and grandchildren who need to be spoiled. I have some very good friends who are helping me. I have my health. I am running and trying to set goals for myself.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My family at the suprise birthday party that Jennifer had for me</td></tr>
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I think that Steve would want me to be happy. I just have to find a way to do it.<br />
<br />Grannie Frannie Runshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16320045525378931002noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2613024245779576376.post-46635067165163907862012-06-05T19:27:00.000-07:002012-06-05T19:27:03.069-07:00Preview - 6 Nights with the Boys6 Nights with the Boys. I am watching Cole and Corbin while Jennifer and Andrew go on a much needed vacation to a Sandals resort in Jamaica. I am picking them up tonight after work. Jennifer and Andrew leave early in the morning for the airport.<br />
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I am looking forward to the time with the boys. Of course this will mean - all the Lego's will be spread out - and since Cole is mobile - will be a challenge keeping him away from the Lego's.<br />
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There are a few activities planned - but mainly just hangin' out. I hope to post a few blogs. We'll see.<br />
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<br />Grannie Frannie Runshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16320045525378931002noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2613024245779576376.post-30308783996628790422012-05-16T14:25:00.002-07:002012-05-16T14:25:17.695-07:00Five Trails Half Marathon preview<br />
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On Sunday, I am running the <a href="http://www.fivetrailshalfmarathon.com/">Five Trails Half Marathon</a> in Leavenworth, KS with my friend Jodi. Jodi and I worked together many years ago. She has accomplished so much since I last saw her. She finished her RN program and is now in the US Reserves. This will be her first half marathon. I am very happy to run next to her as she accomplishes another achievement.<br />
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But, to get there, I must drive 700 miles. I thought that a friend of mine would go along - but schedules just didn't work out. So, I will leave work a little early on Thursday and drive into Arkansas - probably at least until Texarkana - and stop for the night. Then, start early Friday morning and drive the rest of the way. I have 3 new audio books downloaded and I have hundreds of Steve's music to listen to - hopefully, will make the ride go fast.<br />
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The goal of this race will be to finish with Jodi. She has been training with a group - so will wish all the group members a good race.<br />
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After, the HM, I am going to take 2 weeks off with just light running and strength training. Then, I will dive hot and heavy into a training program for the <a href="http://www.womenshalfmarathon.com/bloomington-mn">Women's Half Marathon in Bloomington MN</a>. My goal will to run it in less than 2:00. Which is cutting 5 minutes off of my PR. I really think that I can do it - with the right training.<br />
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I just talked with Jodi and it sounds like we are going to have quite a weekend of activities. So, stay tuned for the post race recap.<br />
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<br />Grannie Frannie Runshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16320045525378931002noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2613024245779576376.post-84458530297137724682012-05-10T12:52:00.001-07:002012-05-10T12:52:14.444-07:00Speed WorkSince I now have this awsome new blog design....I must keep blogging on somewhat regular basis.<br />
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I am 10 days away from running the <a href="http://www.fivetrailshalfmarathon.com/">Five Trails Half Marathon</a> with my friend Jodi. It will be her first half marathon, and our goal will be to finish. Because life has gotten in the way of some of my training time, I haven't been as consistent with the long runs. However, I have faithfully done all the speed and tempo workouts.<br />
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I remember back a couple of years ago, I was so happy when I was able to run on the treadmill at level 6. This is only a 10:00 minute pace - but it just seemed so hard on the treadmill. Then I started using Runner's World SmartCoach and my plans gradually started incorporating faster workouts. I remember the first time that I was able to run at a 9:00 minute pace for 1/4 mile - I was so impressed with my self.<br />
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Well, today's workout was 6 miles Speedwork 3 X 1600 @ 8:30. (but my memory thought it was 5 miles). But anyway - I did not know if I was going to be able to actually do it. I have to do my speedwork on the treadmill, because on the open road, I have no idea what pace I am actually running.<br />
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Well, I did the 3 X 1600 @ 8:34 (level 7 on the treadmill) - and it wasn't as hard as I thought it would be. I was breathing pretty hard the last repeat and my HR was in the 160's, but I felt really good.<br />
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AND I had such a sense of accomplishment.<br />
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Next goal is to finish the Bloomington, MN Women's Half Marathon (August 26th) - under 2:00. If I can keep from falling in potholes and work with Lindsay, my new trainer the next few months - it is entirely possible.Grannie Frannie Runshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16320045525378931002noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2613024245779576376.post-39246800425174184772012-05-06T17:29:00.001-07:002012-05-06T17:29:56.325-07:00Armadillo Stampede Recap......New PR!!For those of you not from Leesville, The Armadillo Stampede is an annual 5k race held each year in conjunction with Mayfest, a local festival held the first weekend in May. Before, I started training for marathons, I would use this as my "lets get in shape after winter" goal each year to start running after being dormant over the winter and putting on weight.<br />
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Now, it is is another training day in the ever-lasting training schedule of some half or full marathon. I have run the Armadillo Stampede nearly every year since we move to Leesville. The only time I did not run it, was when I ran the Mini Marathon in Indianapolis (twice) and the Flying Pig half marathon in Cincinnati (which are both held the 1st weekend of May).<br />
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My usual goal was just to finish and still be breathing and walking at the end. But, now that I have gotten faster, I change my goals. Last year, I finished my 1st 5k under 30:00. I have added speed work and tempo runs to my half marathon schedule (like I should have done anyway) and my times keep getting faster. I have done enough reading to know that the speed work for a 5k is different than that for a half marathon - but any speed work has to make me faster.<br />
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So this year I had the lofty goal of running under 27:00. That is probably just under a 9:00 pace. I had 2 friends who run much faster than me, and thought that if they pace me just a little faster, I wouldn't have any problem. Then life interferes with everything. One friend got injured and isn't running and another had a daughter's softball game. I was on my own. Now of course there are 200 other runners, so I would just have to find someone to keep up with.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a96Xjoe1Rl8/T6cUd-8JPEI/AAAAAAAAAU8/86kkdHm17_Y/s1600/2012-+Family+group+before+Armadillo+Stamped+5-5-2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" mea="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a96Xjoe1Rl8/T6cUd-8JPEI/AAAAAAAAAU8/86kkdHm17_Y/s320/2012-+Family+group+before+Armadillo+Stamped+5-5-2012.jpg" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The family before the run</td></tr>
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I found some other friends, but their goals ranged from 19:00, 24:00, to 30:00 or just have fun. No, I needed someone serious (in my ability range.) The race started and I just kept glancing down at my Garmin. I knew that I needed to keep up about an 8:50 pace the first mile. I have such a hard time with an internal pace. I have to just glance at the Garmin. I finally found a good pace and some people around me that I kept close. But I ran the first mile a little too fast and I paid for it later.<br />
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Louisiana is relatively "flat", but there are hills. This course has one very steep hill that hits at about the 1.25 point in the race and is about 150 yards long. I kept up with most of the runners around me and even passed some of the young boys who had gone out way too fast.<br />
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When I run full or half, I usually drink an Ensure or Slimfast walking to the start. That is usually far out enough that it is digested well before the race starts. I did the same for the 5k, but it probably wasn't far enough I guess. At about the time I was getting to the top of the hill my stomach started feeling like a volcano was going to erupt and I was going to vomit. The combination of probably going out too fast, the hill, and the heat (probably 80 degrees with 80% humidity) was just too much. But I was still able to keep my pace - the legs felt so good. All the speed work was working.<br />
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The last mile was tough and by my calculations, it was going to be close. Even if I didn't have make my goal, I was going to have a PR. But the last half mile, my stomach eased up a bit and I was able to still keep a good pace. With the finish line in site, I knew that I was going to finish under 27 and I sprinted. I forgot to shut off the Garmin until I had walked a bit, so when I looked, it shut off at 27:02. I really didn't know how long I had walked. But, the official time was <span style="color: red;"><strong>26:33!!</strong></span><br />
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<strong><span style="color: red;">Garmin: Mile 1: 8:10 Official time: 26:33</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: red;"> Mile 2: 8:48 Garmin Time: 27:03</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: red;"> Mile 3: 9:20 Garmin Distance: 3.1</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: red;"> .1: 0:49 (8:07 pace)</span></strong><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cjvi6VX_LAQ/T6cU-vwYvfI/AAAAAAAAAVM/vfqQRrwJdmk/s1600/2012-05+-+Fran+finishing+Armadillow+Stamped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" mea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cjvi6VX_LAQ/T6cU-vwYvfI/AAAAAAAAAVM/vfqQRrwJdmk/s320/2012-05+-+Fran+finishing+Armadillow+Stamped.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fran...sprinting towards the finish line</td></tr>
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<strong><span style="color: red;"></span></strong>But to add more excitement to the day, I found my daughter after the race who couldn't find my 7 year old grandson. He was running the 1 mile fun run but did not finish with the other runners. We figured that somehow he had taken a wrong turn and ended up running with the 5k runners. I alerted one of the officials, who also radioed all the guards and bicycle police. So everyone is looking for a lost 7 year old.<br />
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I took off and started running the course backwards and saw him about 3/4 mile from the finish. He actually had passed several other runners who knew him. He was very red faced but was hanging in there. He is going to be a great runner one day.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-77tUD5Arsdk/T6cUvNSl6sI/AAAAAAAAAVE/IXTDUMCXECk/s1600/2012-05+-+Corbin+&+Fran+finishing+Armadillo+Stampede+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" mea="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-77tUD5Arsdk/T6cUvNSl6sI/AAAAAAAAAVE/IXTDUMCXECk/s320/2012-05+-+Corbin+&+Fran+finishing+Armadillo+Stampede+(2).jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Corbin and Fran finishing a very long 1 mile fun run</td></tr>
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All in all it was great race. I have my eye on a July 4th 5k. With the proper speed work - I might be able to break 26:00??? Stay tunedGrannie Frannie Runshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16320045525378931002noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2613024245779576376.post-32938285871063840632012-05-02T19:09:00.002-07:002012-05-04T04:50:44.341-07:00New Blog.........200 Days<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri;">My daughter, Jennifer upgraded my blog for my Mother’s Day present.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She and her blog designer did a fantastic job.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I haven’t had the desire to blog very much.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I told Jennifer that all I wanted to say was sad things.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She said that it is my blog and I can say what I want.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So if you are looking for something upbeat, you might want to stop reading now.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri;">It has been 200 days since Steve was killed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is so hard being without him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One of the hardest things for me to do is just drive home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Steve usually got home every night from work before me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By the time I was pulling in to the driveway, he had gotten home, changed clothes, and was out in the shop working.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, I would drive up and see the shop door open.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now, when I drive up, the door is closed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is just one more vision that I can’t look at without crying.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri;">Steve always had some project out in the shop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was building a guitar, making pens, or tearing apart one of the motorcycles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can’t even count the number of winters that he had The Beast (his 1985 HD Wide Glide) apart and in pieces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I would go out and talk to him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He would ask how long until dinner – I would say, “About an hour” and he would work until dinner was ready.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"></span><span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri;">I miss the way Steve always made me feel safe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was like no matter what happened to me, he would be there to protect me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was a safe driver.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He practiced safety whenever he was around his shop equipment and he did not tolerate people who were not safe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was always there for me whenever I needed him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If I came home and complained about someone, he offered to slash someone’s tires.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I told him that it wasn’t worth me bailing him out of jail.</span> </span><span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri;">But I have such good memories of 30 years being with a wonderful man.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have 3 great children that Steve loved and was so very proud of all of them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He gave them a hard time when they might have made some bone-head decision, but he really loved them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>He was such a good father to the kids when they were young.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When the Army transferred me to Fort Sam Houston, TX for a year, he became a great mother & father.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But during that year, all the kids learned how to do their own laundry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There were many things that I had done for the kids that Steve made them do for themselves.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y04mC_wjbBE/T6HldTGQAEI/AAAAAAAAAUM/AOkeCXsQ4cU/s1600/%25285%2529+Steve+%2526+Kids+Dec+1990.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" mea="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y04mC_wjbBE/T6HldTGQAEI/AAAAAAAAAUM/AOkeCXsQ4cU/s320/%25285%2529+Steve+%2526+Kids+Dec+1990.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steve, the kids<br />
and his beloved Blue Van</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N9A9B8_U7e8/T6Hl2spcuNI/AAAAAAAAAUU/M-tzDHIYjzg/s1600/(6)+Family+motorcycle+1990.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="246" mea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N9A9B8_U7e8/T6Hl2spcuNI/AAAAAAAAAUU/M-tzDHIYjzg/s320/(6)+Family+motorcycle+1990.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Gibson Family, December 1990<br />
right before Steve deployed to Dessert Storm</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: black;">Well, enough sad things.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is too much to do around Steve & Fran’s Farmhouse to sit around and mope.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are several runs coming up over the next few months.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe there will be a special event in November and I have grandkids to spoil.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri;">I miss you Steve.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m taking it one day at a time – and like someone told me today, sometimes it’s one hour at a time.</span></div>
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</div>Grannie Frannie Runshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16320045525378931002noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2613024245779576376.post-44361014077922652962012-02-22T19:02:00.001-08:002012-05-02T14:57:13.583-07:00Preview to Disney - It has to be better than last time!!!Tomorrow we leave for Disney World. One of my favorite places on earth. Several members of the family are running the Royal Family 5k and the Princess Half Marathon.<br />
<br />
I haven't done much blogging - I always want to have a happy up-beat blog - but haven't felt very happy or up-beat lately. Whenever someone asks me "How are you doing?", my standard answer is 'OK'. My new mantra is "<span style="color: red;"><strong><em>Fake it until you make it</em></strong></span>". Might be a while until I have made it.<br />
<br />
I have been looking forward to this vacation. It was planned early last year - months before Steve was killed. Since Steve did not like Disney - he wasn't planning on going. So, this would have been a vacation without him - I'm hoping to be able to relax and have fun without seeing constant reminders of him everywhere.<br />
<br />
Also, this is a costume run. I am Biker Tinkerbell and Jennifer is Snow White. What great photo opportunities!! Andrew and Scott have T-shirts that Jennifer had made for them. Should be excellent Blog material.<br />
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The last Disney run that we went on was in January 2010. Probably listed as the coldest Florida on record. I ran the Goofy. Saturday, for the half, it was sleeting and about 26 degrees. Sunday, for the Full marathon, it was windy, raining and about 33 degrees. The 2 most miserable runs that I have ever done. I really earned that Goofy Medal! Then even more horrible was the cold wait for the bus back to the hotel.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dJbpGWBF5g8/T0WqBGd0xzI/AAAAAAAAASg/gb7GeSuDN48/s1600/CIMG2391.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" lda="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dJbpGWBF5g8/T0WqBGd0xzI/AAAAAAAAASg/gb7GeSuDN48/s320/CIMG2391.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jennifer and Fran - bundled up before the 2010 Disney half marathon.<br />
We ran with the trash bags on for about 3 miles.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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This year - we should have good weather.<br />
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Watch for a future blog update on the run.Grannie Frannie Runshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16320045525378931002noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2613024245779576376.post-14190830875595527212012-01-29T12:30:00.000-08:002012-01-29T12:30:44.820-08:00106 daysIt has been 106 days since my husband, Steve, was killed. On one hand it seems so far away then on the other hand it seems like just yesterday because I see him everywhere.<br />
<br />
I see his truck parked in the yard and see him getting out of it. I see him sitting is his chair next to me eating dinner and watching TV. I see him laying next to me at night. I see him in his shop working on a new guitar. I hear his music and see him walking around the 145 with his wireles mike. He is a part of me and everything in our house is a part of him. <br />
<br />
I am trying to clean out 2 junks drawers in the kitchen. You know what I mean. Everyone has a junk drawer - it accumulates all sorts of crap. We have lived in our house for over 21 years - So you know what can accumulate. The drawers have been cleaned many times - but still the crap that I have found.<br />
<br />
A lot of this crap is from the kids - probably from as long ago as from Scott was in Kindergarten (Scott is 26 years old). I kept it because "you never know when you might need a set of colored pencils and glue stick". Well the colored pencils are broken and the glue stick is all dried up. So much is going in the trash.<br />
<br />
But I am finding so much of Steve's stuff. Bits and pieces left over from a repair project. I have found Screws, nails, nuts and bolts, and little connectors that I don't know what they connected. I have found little zip lock bags of parts - wishing I could ask Steve if these were important or did he mean to throw them away. I have found more batteries than I know what to do with - several are corroded with white battery acid leaking out. Little tools, screw drivers, allen wrenches, eye glass repair kits, electrical tape, bottles of super glue and enough shoe laces for all the shoes in the house.<br />
<br />
I had to stop for a while and take a break. Crying over kitchen sink repair parts was just too much. Just made me think of all the things that Steve did around the house for us. It never failed, if something needed fixing - Steve would stop whatever he was doing and fix it. There might be some complaining, but he did so much automatically - it was just the person that he was.<br />
<br />
I miss you so much.<br />
<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-66ZgavRs-wI/TyWgZMgo5GI/AAAAAAAAAQE/5VFZIkEB9w4/s1600/P1060996.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-66ZgavRs-wI/TyWgZMgo5GI/AAAAAAAAAQE/5VFZIkEB9w4/s320/P1060996.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Fran and Steve at our nephew, Jason's, wedding May 2008</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JfD6fIe-wKU/TyWm6UOsI3I/AAAAAAAAAQM/Inqw_8u1c5M/s1600/100_1194.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JfD6fIe-wKU/TyWm6UOsI3I/AAAAAAAAAQM/Inqw_8u1c5M/s320/100_1194.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Corbin, Steve and Fran and our son, Chris', wedding.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Grannie Frannie Runshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16320045525378931002noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2613024245779576376.post-74722752380483255622012-01-22T14:58:00.000-08:002012-01-22T14:58:14.110-08:00Going on... One Step at a TimeToday, I get to try to start running again. I injured my ankle on one of my "easy" runs 2 days after Christmas. I had been training for the Louisiana Marathon, which took place in Baton Rouge last weekend. Instead of trying for what could have been my best time ever on an extremely flat course, I was cheerleader. My grandson, Corbin, ran a half mile race and my daughter, Jennifer, ran her first 5K since having the baby in September. My friends Lee and Rosalyn both had great times. I was so proud of them all.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-15CjNVNeKs0/TxwWyPA75SI/AAAAAAAAAOc/Az-qQ7AFapU/s1600/Linda%252C+Brandy%252C+Jennifer%252C+Corbin+1-14-12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" nfa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-15CjNVNeKs0/TxwWyPA75SI/AAAAAAAAAOc/Az-qQ7AFapU/s320/Linda%252C+Brandy%252C+Jennifer%252C+Corbin+1-14-12.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Linda, Brandy, Jennifer, and Corbin after their runs</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AQ_ejZd5X98/TxwUbCU-qUI/AAAAAAAAAOM/II_uFxEL9fI/s1600/Lee+%2526+Rosalyn+before+LA+marathon+1-15-12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" nfa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AQ_ejZd5X98/TxwUbCU-qUI/AAAAAAAAAOM/II_uFxEL9fI/s320/Lee+%2526+Rosalyn+before+LA+marathon+1-15-12.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lee and Rosalyn before their runs</td></tr>
</tbody></table> So after, 3 weeks of cold, heat, compression, elevation, Motrin, massage therapy and physical therapy, I have been cleared to run 1 mile. It is a start. But at 54 years old, starting over after nearly a month without running is hard. It will take some time to get me back (if ever) to my pre-injury level. I just need to take it slowly and work on my training very diligently.<br />
<br />
I follow a blog called: <a href="http://www.shutupandrun.net/2012/01/on-bleachers.html">Shut Up and Run</a>. This blog is written by an amazing runner and athlete. She is very funny with her blog and says things out loud - that I think. Recently, her cousin was tragically killed. She has blogged about the tragic events and how she is trying to cope. She says that it is helping her.<br />
<br />
So for those of you who read my blog, you are probably going to see more written of Steve. I am finding that writing about this is very therapeutic. And these days, I need therapy. My blog is very basic - <a href="http://lohrkefamily.blogspot.com/">Jennifer's Blog</a> is so much better.<br />
<br />
<br />
Crying is just an every day event for me. I see something in the house or think of something that Steve did and the tears just flow. Friday, I went grocery shopping. I still can't walk down the pretzel aisle. I just look over and start crying.<br />
<br />
Steve was so talented in so many ways. I probably took him for granted way too much. I am listening to his music - he was a great musician and song writer. I really never listened so closely before he died.<br />
<br />
He was good at everything that he did. He was so good with his hands.Whether making a guitar, fixing the tractor, fixing the shower, or sitting down with Corbin and making the best train track ever. He was a Harley Davidson motorcycle rider - but he changed diapers, fixed dinner, grew roses, and washed dishes. I would listen to other wives complain about their husbands - I didn't have anything to complain about - I would just brag about what a wonderful husband I had.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-htJ4GNdtMKQ/TxyBU5PkwmI/AAAAAAAAAO0/6s4ZTadQVqw/s1600/Gibson+Family+-+Acme+Oyster+House+-+Oct+13%252C+2010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" nfa="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-htJ4GNdtMKQ/TxyBU5PkwmI/AAAAAAAAAO0/6s4ZTadQVqw/s320/Gibson+Family+-+Acme+Oyster+House+-+Oct+13%252C+2010.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Gibson Family, October 13, 2010<br />
Acme Oyster House - New Orleans</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I cleaned yesterday. Scrubbed toilets, vacuumed, and dusted. Another form of "Fran's Therapy". The weather was beautiful outside. I know what Steve would have said, "Open the windows". So that is what I did. Steve would have liked that.<br />
<br />
So as with my running, one step at a time, I am trying to go on without Steve...One step at a time.Grannie Frannie Runshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16320045525378931002noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2613024245779576376.post-13024054224306067442012-01-16T20:22:00.000-08:002012-07-01T07:57:37.318-07:00Frannie's 2011 reviewAs said in my <a href="http://lohrkefamily.blogspot.com/2012/01/2011-year-end-review.html">daughter Jennifer's Blog</a>, it is best to start with the most important events of the year. Without even thinking, 2011 will always be the year that Steve died. Everything else pales in comparison. But 2011 had a very wonderful event. Grandson, Cole, was born. Already, he is developing a personality of his own. He seems like a happy baby. I think that he is just holding it all back until he turns 2.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-joghJ8T430o/Tx3KT-JxpFI/AAAAAAAAAPc/Djuzq7qFY4M/s1600/Cole+in+Incubator+2011-09-01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" nfa="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-joghJ8T430o/Tx3KT-JxpFI/AAAAAAAAAPc/Djuzq7qFY4M/s320/Cole+in+Incubator+2011-09-01.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Welcome to the world Cole William Lohrke</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZwGKIk78i_0/Tx3Ka0O36yI/AAAAAAAAAPk/xIdxhKcMgrU/s1600/Fran+Feeding+Cole+in+ER+9-27-11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" nfa="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZwGKIk78i_0/Tx3Ka0O36yI/AAAAAAAAAPk/xIdxhKcMgrU/s320/Fran+Feeding+Cole+in+ER+9-27-11.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fran feeding Cole in the ER - 9-27-2011<br />
Just starting a 20 day hospitalization</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GPuHSqLKEy0/TxTw-B3aMWI/AAAAAAAAANk/7BfoQcxeio8/s1600/dadmemorial2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a>During 2011, I ran my fastest 5K, fastest 10K, fastest half Marathon, and fastest Marathon ever. I travelled frequently for my races. Steve got bored and didn't want to come along. But, he would always call me and asked me how I did. I sometimes just feel like he is away at Daytona (where he didn't usually carry his phone). I miss telling him about my day or my run. But I can hear him anyway saying something like: "You know the deal" <br />
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This was one of my most busy years. During 2011, I finished:</div>
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2 Marathons</div>
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7 Half Marathons</div>
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3 10Ks</div>
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4 5Ks</div>
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4 Triathlons</div>
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January - Park to Park Half Marathon - Sulfur, LA</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S8l3XK6J7kA/TwcABgJpKbI/AAAAAAAAAMU/3zCYrLAZTN0/s1600/2011-+01+Park+to+Park+half+marathon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="223" rea="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S8l3XK6J7kA/TwcABgJpKbI/AAAAAAAAAMU/3zCYrLAZTN0/s320/2011-+01+Park+to+Park+half+marathon.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is a picture of Sara (24) and me (25) at the start of the <br />
Park to Park Half Marathon. I decided that I needed a motivational <br />
picture on the refrigerator for loosing a few pounds. I showed Steve<br />
several pictures and said "which one makes me look the fatest?"<br />
He picked this picture. Only a husband who really loves you<br />
could answer a question like that honestly.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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February - Rock N Roll New Orleans Marathon<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X9oJey8sx3E/TwmlUr9Cw6I/AAAAAAAAAMc/myyePWqUJM8/s1600/2011+Mardi+Gras+Marathon+-+Finishing+Fran+%2526+Corbin+in+the+air.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" rea="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X9oJey8sx3E/TwmlUr9Cw6I/AAAAAAAAAMc/myyePWqUJM8/s320/2011+Mardi+Gras+Marathon+-+Finishing+Fran+%2526+Corbin+in+the+air.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grandson, Corbin, jumped in at the end of the race<br />
and helped me cross the finish line.</td></tr>
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March - Red River Run - 10K<br />
Charity 5k - <span style="color: red;">PR - 29:00</span><br />
Rock N Roll Dallas Half Marathon<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vjEsIFDvYGU/TxTqGSPuPWI/AAAAAAAAAMk/4IXoN0D6iXA/s1600/Steve+%2526+Fran+-+2011+Mardi+Gras+Ball+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" kba="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vjEsIFDvYGU/TxTqGSPuPWI/AAAAAAAAAMk/4IXoN0D6iXA/s320/Steve+%2526+Fran+-+2011+Mardi+Gras+Ball+%25282%2529.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steve and me at the Mardi Gras Ball.<br />
Steve didn't stay in the suit long.<br />
His band, Leroy Skillet, began playing <br />
shortly after this was taken</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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April - Anacoco Tail Twisting 10K - <span style="color: red;">PR - 58:52</span><br />
Crescent City Classic<br />
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May - Rocketchix Triathlon I - LSU - Baton Rouge, LA<br />
Armadillo Stampede - 5K<br />
Combat Triathlon - Texas City, TX<br />
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June - Grandma's Marathon - <span style="color: red;"><strong>PR - 4:59:47</strong></span><br />
Sugarland Triathlon - Sugarland, TX<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9PXnj5rRnfw/TxTwakYrL6I/AAAAAAAAANM/FzOXVnZlnD8/s1600/2011+-+Grandma%2527s+Marathon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" kba="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9PXnj5rRnfw/TxTwakYrL6I/AAAAAAAAANM/FzOXVnZlnD8/s320/2011+-+Grandma%2527s+Marathon.jpg" width="224" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was me in my Mardi Gras Costume<br />
for Grandma's marathon. Unfortunately,<br />
it seems that most people in Minnesota<br />
don't know what Mardi Gras is... and just<br />
called me the "Bird Lady".</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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July - Rocketchix Triathlon II<br />
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August - Rock N Roll Chicago Half Marathon<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-flWyLKlo8MQ/TxTw3tazUDI/AAAAAAAAANc/0GxgfZIZo04/s1600/Steve%252C+Fran%252C+Jennifer+-+Booker+Lewis+House+Aug+2011%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" kba="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-flWyLKlo8MQ/TxTw3tazUDI/AAAAAAAAANc/0GxgfZIZo04/s320/Steve%252C+Fran%252C+Jennifer+-+Booker+Lewis+House+Aug+2011%255B1%255D.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the last picture that I can find of Steve and me together.<br />
We are having breakfast at the Booker Lewis House when<br />
his sisters came to visit for Jennifer's baby shower.<br />
This was taken August 6, 2011.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LGgV55b8qRE/TxTwp8aCH9I/AAAAAAAAANU/lPXpDgZSEO0/s1600/Steve+%2526+Corbin+1st+day+of+school+8-11-11+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" kba="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LGgV55b8qRE/TxTwp8aCH9I/AAAAAAAAANU/lPXpDgZSEO0/s320/Steve+%2526+Corbin+1st+day+of+school+8-11-11+%25282%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Steve taking Corbin to his first day of 1st Grade.</div>
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One of my favorite pictures that Jennifer has taken.</div>
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Don't know what made Corbin look so happy, but I </div>
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know that Steve loved Corbin.</div>
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September - Rock N Roll Virginia Beach Half Marathon<br />
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October - Alexandria Komen 5K<br />
Jazz Half Marathon - <span style="color: red;"><strong>PR - 1:00:20</strong></span><br />
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<tr><td style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VCuWe1wDS-w/TxTxIjScILI/AAAAAAAAANs/a--qqd6MPhw/s1600/Steve+taking+Kris+on+Motorcycle+ride+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" kba="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VCuWe1wDS-w/TxTxIjScILI/AAAAAAAAANs/a--qqd6MPhw/s320/Steve+taking+Kris+on+Motorcycle+ride+%25282%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is probably the last picture take of Steve. He was driving<br />
Kris up to the Hospital. He was driving her to the hospital<br />
to stay the night with Cole.</td></tr>
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November - Keeping it Alive CenLa's Half Marathon<br />
Rock N Roll San Antonio Half Marathon<br />
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December - Christmas Festival 5K - Natchitoches, LA<br />
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I got tired just writing all these events down. This was just one crazy year. I might have attempted too many events, but I was able to finish all with fairly decent times. I had been training for a Marathon in January but fell on December 27th. Previous post describes the details. So No Marathon for me. I did go and chear my running partners - who both had very good times.</div>
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After reading an article in Runner's World soemthing about <em><strong>What to next in your running life...</strong></em> The article focused on what do do once you have met personal goals. I thought about getting involved and working with others to run their FIRST half marathon. I sent out flyers, put an article in The Guardian (Fort Polk's local paper), and sent out information on Facebook. After just a few short weeks, I was e-mailing over 70 people. I was so overwhelmed with the numbers of people. Because of this effort, I met some wonderful new friends (Lee, Heidi, and Rosalyn). Several of which have helped me through the last 2 horrible months. I did help 2 people run their first Half Marthon and introduced several people to new running partners. All in all, it was one of the better things that I did in 2011.<br />
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Hoping that 2012 is a good year. I know that it shouldn't be worse that 2011.<br />
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I have some family vacations planned, of course some runs (already registered), and 2 cruises with my in-laws. I will try to be a better blogger.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="180" kba="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GPuHSqLKEy0/TxTw-B3aMWI/AAAAAAAAANk/7BfoQcxeio8/s320/dadmemorial2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is one of the displays at Steve's Memorial.<br />
Steve was loved by so many.<br />
I miss him..</td></tr>
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Grannie Frannie Runshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16320045525378931002noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2613024245779576376.post-85823474260585884602012-01-05T12:51:00.000-08:002012-01-05T12:52:48.122-08:00Injured - Races TBD<em><strong>Forgot to post this - was still one of my "Saved" posts</strong></em><br />
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On Tuesday, my SmartCoach plan called for an easy 2 mile run. I am a morning runner. I just don't seem to have the energy to run after work any more. But with time changes and the time of year, 0600 is very dark. I prefer to run outside rather that at the gym. Running outside in the dark is like playing Russian Roulette. You can play for a long time - but eventually something bad is going to happen.<br />
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I run my easy 2 milers on the running trail around the golf course at Fort Polk, LA. It is an asphault trail with easy Louisiana hills that encompasses the golf course on post. My friend, Rosalyn, and I are about 1.5 miles into the run. I am feeling good. My hip doesn't hurt. Then, suddenly, I am on the ground in extreme pain.<br />
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Apparently, my right foot landed just on the edge of the asphault near a large hole. My ankle rolled and I am on the ground. I sit on the ground while Rosalyn goes and gets her car. But the ground is too cold and wet, so, I hobble and meet her about half way.<br />
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I manage to drive myself back home, then nurse Fran goes into action. I immediately take 600mg of Motrin, fill a bag with ice, and elevate my leg for about 30 minutes. I go to the Emergency Room. X-rays are all normal. Just a "bad sprain". Bad sprain can mean horrible ligament damage. I have a consult for an Orthopedic doctor - but with military medicine - It might take weeks. Only an MRI will tell if there is any damage.<br />
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In the mean time - I am elevating, icing, and taking Motrin. I am able to move the ankle and walk. But, I am taking it very gingerly.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-flx8y0rv6As/TvzSOyJQ29I/AAAAAAAAAMM/E4HRNefmjtQ/s1600/Foot+with+ice+and+ace+12-28-2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" rea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-flx8y0rv6As/TvzSOyJQ29I/AAAAAAAAAMM/E4HRNefmjtQ/s320/Foot+with+ice+and+ace+12-28-2011.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I just don't know what this means for Race plans. The Louisiana Marathon is less than 3 weeks away. I did have a 20 miler scheduled for Sunday. Even if I can't run for 3 weeks, I can probably still do the half. So dissapointed. This was going to be my PR - I was hoping for a 4:45 or less. I had done all my training perfectly. <br />
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We will just have to make new plans - and reevaluate in about a week.Grannie Frannie Runshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16320045525378931002noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2613024245779576376.post-60590212865708174102011-12-26T12:23:00.000-08:002011-12-26T12:23:37.173-08:00Long Run and Christmas18 milers scheduled for the long run for this week. Sunday is usually the day for my long runs, but I didn't really want to spend 3-4 hours Christmas morning out running. So, I planned to run on Saturday (Christmas Eve) instead. Because of a wild personal schedule, rain, weather, and shopping, I only had about a day and a half rest between what I thought was a brutal 5 mile speed workout and my long run.<br />
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Last week it was my hip that was bothering me. Well, after a wonderful massage session where Rachel stretched out all my hip muscles (she said I was very tight), my hip hardly hurts at all. Now, because of what I diagnose as "not enough rest time between runs", I am having knee pain. <br />
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I have iced, motrined, and elevated - but still is a little tender. I will see what the easy 2 miler feels like tomorrow morning. When my hip was hurting - I was debating with myself about dropping back and only doing the half marathon in 3 weeks. Now - it is probably even more likely. It is hurting just to walk right now.<br />
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Christmas morning was spent at my daughter Jennifer's house. Her husband and 2 children were there as well as son Scott, his girlfriend, and extended family members. We did the traditional present opening followed by big breakfast. Only one other Christmas, when Steve was deployed during Desert Storm, were we not all together. This Christmas was hard not having him with us.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E5pcc-fU_1w/TvjWnhfievI/AAAAAAAAAL0/GfRVGPr1cdE/s1600/IMG_0929.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E5pcc-fU_1w/TvjWnhfievI/AAAAAAAAAL0/GfRVGPr1cdE/s320/IMG_0929.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me (Fran), my son Scott, and Girlfriend Alanna.<br />
Scott has just received his shirt for the <a href="http://espnwwos.disney.go.com/events/rundisney/princess-half-marathon">Disney Princess Half Marathon</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7FxsgthGNAU/TvjV_IhpKwI/AAAAAAAAALk/AXcwaB1QA-U/s1600/IMG_0943.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7FxsgthGNAU/TvjV_IhpKwI/AAAAAAAAALk/AXcwaB1QA-U/s320/IMG_0943.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baby Cole's 1st Christmas - healthy now</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZkSbL8IrjY8/TvjWLwxouTI/AAAAAAAAALs/4tCE-KZ_lLM/s1600/IMG_0952.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZkSbL8IrjY8/TvjWLwxouTI/AAAAAAAAALs/4tCE-KZ_lLM/s320/IMG_0952.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nothing quite says Christmas in the South as<br />
getting a new weapon.</td></tr>
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</div>Grannie Frannie Runshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16320045525378931002noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2613024245779576376.post-88353062155466134992011-12-18T12:41:00.000-08:002011-12-18T12:41:40.689-08:00Weekend in FloridaIn my attempt to blog regularly, I will try to post something every few days. <br />
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My mother lives in Florida, outside of Orlando. She is by herself, without any family nearby. So, I try to visit her as often as possible. I flew in Thursday night and will leave tomorrow morning.<br />
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While I am here, I try to help her with some errands and shopping. We were even able to get in an eye doctor appointment while I was here.<br />
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The weather was a little cool. I didn't bring any cold weather clothes with me or my running gloves. It was 50 degrees this morning when I woke up - I would not have been dressed properly - so, I waited until about 0930 to run. It was about 54 degrees - but very windy. But the sun was out so warmed up more as I ran.<br />
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My hip is still hurting a little bit - so, I slowed down and walked a little more than planned. Doctor appointment this week - maybe I might be able to get an X-ray or MRI scheduled so I can see if there is something really wrong - or just wear & tear.<br />
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4 week until the Louisiana Marathon. I still have an 18 & 20 mile training run. If something is really wrong - I would hate to aggravate it worse with the long training runs. So - I will just go a little slower - that's the plan.Grannie Frannie Runshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16320045525378931002noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2613024245779576376.post-4293792501245013192011-12-14T17:40:00.000-08:002011-12-14T17:40:16.002-08:00Crying at the Grocery StoreGrocery shopping should not be a traumatic event. I just had to pick up a few things - So ran to the Commissary. But today wasn't one of my better days.<br />
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It started near the bakery, when I saw the kind of bread that Steve liked so much. Then in the meat department, I picked out some real good looking boneless pork chops. Steve liked pork and I couldn't always find nice pork chops to cook - but today there was a big selection. Then the final straw was when I went in the back and couldn't even go down the pretzel aisle. <br />
<br />
I always made sure that we had plenty of pretzels. It was Steve's favorite snack. But, I have plenty of pretzels at my house. There isn't anyone to eat them. When my son, Scott, comes over (now only about once a month since he lives in Shreveport) he eats a few.<br />
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It was hard enough transitioning from cooking for a family of 5 down to just Steve and I. Now cooking for only 1 is so hard. Just something else to get used to.Grannie Frannie Runshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16320045525378931002noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2613024245779576376.post-54386019485532071502011-12-13T17:18:00.000-08:002017-06-13T13:47:35.503-07:00Hip PainOn Sunday, Lee and I had our 16 mile long run. Only 33 Days until <a href="http://www.thelouisianamarathon.com/">The Louisiana Marathon</a> in Baton Rouge. Heidi joined us for about 10 miles. My right hip just didn't want to stop hurting. It isn't the kind of pain that will make me stop running - it is just the nagging pain to let me know something is just not quite right.<br />
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Well, you can't fix something if you don't know exactly what is wrong. Do I need to strength train more on the hip? Well, if something is partially torn or partially broken (tendon, ligament, muscle, or stress fracture), I am worried that certain kinds of training might make it worse.<br />
<br />
So, I decided to go to the doctor to see what is wrong. But.... with the military system, I just can't go see an orthopedic doctor. No, I have to see an internal medicine doc first who will refer me to an orthopod. First available appointment is December 21st. Right after I do my 20 mile run.<br />
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In the mean time, Fran's plan is just to take is easy - I am sticking with Runner's World Smart Coach plan - but just might not run quite so fast.<br />
<br />
This morning Rosalyn and I ran 5 easy miles and the hip didn't hurt during or after the run.<br />
<br />
My plan might work.Grannie Frannie Runshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16320045525378931002noreply@blogger.com0