Images From The 2012 Chicago Shamrock Shuffle 8k

The Shamrock Shuffle 8k marks the beginning of the running season here in Chicago, and three years ago, it was the first big race I had ever ran.  This is my third year in row to participate, and the excitement leading up to the Shuffle is just as intense as the first time.  Good luck to everyone running this weekend wherever you may be, and make every race special.  You've trained hard to get where you are, so enjoy it.  See you at the finish line!

Nike Pre Montreal Racer Vintage, Nike iD Pro long sleeve shirt, Sport Kilt All Ireland Works Kilt

Pack It Up Pack It In

I've recently become fascinated by jackets that fold into their own pockets.  They're great  for travel or just to have on hand while out and about town.  The North Face Verto jacket is a great one that folds small enough to fit in your pocket.  The material is very light weight, but durable.  Don't expect it to resist rips from sharp objects just like any other light jacket.  The black one looks a little like a trash bag, but most of the wrinkles smooth out enough to make this jacket look really good.  The North Face sells this for $120 online, but you may get lucky at North Face Outlet Stores and find it for much cheaper.

The Eddie Bauer Sirocco Wind Shell is on sale now on their website for $39.95 and comes in nice colors for men and women.

Nike's Hurricane Vapor Jacket sells for $115 online and comes in 11 different color options.  If you're near a Niketown, I've seen some colors marked down to $68.  For women, Nike offers the Cyclone Vapor Jacket in 10 colors for $115.

All of these jackets are lightweight, water resistant, comfortable layers to have on when running in chilly weather or light rain and they of course fold and unfold nicely keeping you prepared for whatever the weather throws in your path.

Back in the Saddle

After taking 2 months off from regular training following the Houston Marathon, I'm slowly getting back into the groove of things.  With the Big Sur International Marathon on April 29th, I've probably resumed training about a month too late.  It's slow going, but it feels great to get out especially with the weather being unseasonably warm here in Chicago.  For all of you out there running, I'm back with you.  Keep running, and I'll see you at the finish line.

P.S.  I may be moving the blog over to Tumblr.  Until I make the final decision, click HERE to bookmark the Tumblr site.