Learn | Make | Fix | Run

Over the past 2.5 years, I’ve only blogged when I had something meaningful or unique to share. I tend to have more to say when I’m training for a race, but it’s been quiet these last four months. That’s mostly because I’ve been busy with work—and I haven’t had a race on the calendar. That’s about to change. Starting in August and running through November, I’ve committed to a running goal that’s a bit different from my usual solo challenges. This time, others are counting on me. So you can be sure I’ll follow through. This fall, I’ll be coaching cross country . To prepare, I need to rebuild my speed—and that work starts on June 12. Quick 2025 Progress Check-In ✅ I haven’t taken more than four consecutive days off from running. ✅ I’ve been doing core work three times a week since May 26—two solid weeks and counting. ❌ No new PRs (yet) in the 5K, 10K, or half marathon. That said, I believe my form is improving. I’m relying more on my quads and...

Last week, I earned the Garmin streak badges I was working on. I earned my first Run Streak badge for running at least one mile 30 days in a row. I also earned my first 30 for 30 badge for running at least 30 minutes for 30 days straight. Then, I took my first rest day in 30 days. The schedule got busy, and Tuesday wasn’t a great time to run. The same busy schedule happened on Thursday, and I skipped running that day. However, I kept to my goal of not taking more than four days off. Speaking of badges, I thought there was a 15K badge for January. I ran 9.33 miles on Saturday, hoping to earn the badge, but I discovered that there wasn’t one. I also squeezed three S & C sessions in last week. Since I have historically not been good at doing S & C before a run, I sometimes forget and must complete it afterward. The rest days were good for me. After a day off, Wednesday’s base run felt strong. Friday evening’s run was speedy on the track. I...

December, in terms of running, was awful. I ran the Zoom Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving and needed a few days off after the race. I ran on Sunday, December 1. Then, the girls had extra weeknight ballet practice for their Nutcracker performance. I got chased by a dog on December 6; please leash your dog in public or at least pick it up if it chases after someone and that someone stops so you can pick up your dog. After ballet, I was busy preparing for finals and then grading finals. After spending a Saturday decorating the church for Christmas, I finally had a chance to run on Sunday, December 22. I assumed the 12 Days of Fitness occurred during the last 12 days of the month (like in 2023). You need to record 10 20-minute activities for that badge. With a December 22 start date, I figured I could earn the badge by the skin of my teeth. Then I discovered on Christmas Eve that the window was December 15-26. Nonetheless, I decided to chase the other two December running badges, December Time ...