Monthly Archives: October 2011

So here’s the funny thing about perfectionists: There are layers upon layers of perfectionist before you get to the pure, peaceful, accepting non-lunatic within. On Friday, I wrote about my goal for the Marine Corps Marathon 10K: to approach the … Continue reading →

Earlier this week, I mentioned that my goal for the Marine Corps Marathon 10K is to “approach this race, which will almost certainly not be my fastest, with the grace and enthusiasm of a beginner.” Which may have made you … Continue reading →

Just a few more days until I line up for the MCM 10K! That means it’s time to get all my important race-day stuff in order—namely, my playlist. The one below will last for about 50 minutes. I’m anticipating somewhere … Continue reading →

Ever since we moved to Washington three years ago, I’ve greeted this weekend with excitement and motivation—it’s Marine Corps Marathon time again! My first year here, I ran the full Marine Corps Marathon. Last year, I wised up—ahem, opted out—and … Continue reading →

This week, I’ve been visiting a bunch of area gyms for a Bethesda Magazine feature (stay tuned for details in a month or so). I’ve been amazed at the diverse array of fitness centers located within a 15-square-mile area, and … Continue reading →

I thought about filing this mishmash of a list under a “motivation Monday” post. But this isn’t necessarily stuff that motivates me; just stuff I’m digging like a ditch at this moment in time. They’re mostly runner/swimmer/athlete-themed—some more loosely than … Continue reading →

Every place has its season, and D.C.’s is now, when our hot, sticky summer gives way to refreshingly cool fall. If you need any other reason to go for a run than the sight of brilliant fall leaves, the sound … Continue reading →

So you know how sometimes, in the middle of a long run, you spot something so bizarre and interesting, it occupies your thoughts for miles? An example: While running a 20-miler on Sligo Creek Trail a couple years ago, I … Continue reading →

I spent Columbus Day weekend exploring a bizarre and fascinating region: New Jersey’s Pine Barrens. Stay tuned for my Backpacker Magazine story about our 15-ish-mile backpacking route along the Batona Trail (cleverly named BaToNa for Back to Nature). For now, … Continue reading →

I’ve mentioned here before that I’m a relentless perfectionist. I approach work and play as all-or-nothing endeavors in which I’d rather not play than play badly. It’s a personality flaw. I’m working on it, and probably always will be working … Continue reading →