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Walking Observations: Christmas in the CLE

12/18/2014

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It's been a busy last few weeks for the Woodster and me. From getting ready for the holidays to taking Woody on walks before the ice and snow make it unbearable, this December has been jam-packed. The other night we were able to walk through Playhouse Square, the temporary home for Cleveland's Christmas tree and light display.
Playhouse Square Christmas
Woody is wearing a stylish scarlet & grey fleece while I wore sparkly sweatpants and my best coat to get in the holiday spirit. We couldn't get a picture of the big tree because the other lights were drowning out the holiday lights, but you get the point.

I've only lived in Cleveland for a couple years, so I don't know if I can pinpoint a Cleveland holiday tradition just yet, but I do have one that's starting to become a thing that merges Cleveland with a family Christmas memory. You probably know that A Christmas Story was filmed in Cleveland. You probably also know that there is a 24-hour marathon devoted to it on TBS (which I LOVED to watch with my uncle, who recently passed away this year). But I bet you didn't know that, beginning last year, A Christmas Story House Foundation hosts a 5K/10K race to support the restoration of the house, the museum, and the neighborhood. I've now ran in it both years and will probably continue to do so for the foreseeable future. The race begins downtown, and the distance to the house is an exact 3.1 miles. The people watching is fantastic, as Pink Nightmares, leg lamps, robbers and elves go running through the streets of Cleveland.
Christmas Story House 5K.
It's a major award!
Oh, and did I mention you can run with your dogs?? Woody can easily run a 5K but unfortunately his paws are a little too sensitive in cold weather for this type of race.

I've shown you a little of what I've been up to so I have to ask - what's your favorite Cleveland Christmas tradition (both dog or non-dog friendly) and what should I definitely make a point to do before the season is over, or even next year?
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What I'm thinking when I run with my dog vs. when I run alone

11/25/2014

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Despite his small size, Woody loves to go for runs. He can be the best and worst running partner - best because he could keep his pace forever and worst because if he does stop, it's to use the bathroom or sniff something that must smell REALLY interesting.
Running with dog
One of our summer runs by the lake.
Now that it's nearly winter and am actually in the home stretch of training for a couple of races, I can't really take him along. People say running is just as much about mental strength as it is physical, and tonight I got to thinking about how different my thoughts are when I'm running with my dog vs. when I'm running without him. Maybe you can relate?
What I'm Thinking Running with the dog

  • Why is he already so much faster than me?
  • Please don't notice that squirrel, please.
  • Okay, this grass is a good slow-down place so he can poop.
  • I hope this dog doesn't try to run after him.
  • If he didn't have to poop he could literally run for miles.
  • I hope the collar isn't irritating his neck.
  • Crap, he's limping.
  • Okay he's better.
  • He's pooping again and I'm out of bags. If I just block this area maybe no one will see...
  • My knees...
  • Almost home, time for us to kick it up a notch and pray he's done pooping.
  • Done. My dog is the best.
What I'm Thinking Running Alone

  • I'm swift, swift like the wind!
  • Aww, hi squirrel friend!
  • Did I just step in dog poop?
  • I hope this dog doesn't try to run after me.
  • I am not going to make it much longer. I need my dog.
  • No I don't, I need to pace.
  • OMG my KNEE, am I 50?
  • Hopefully my Powersteps keep me from limping.
  • Powersteps, I am 50.
  • That person is not picking up their dog poop. WHAT IS SO HARD ABOUT IT?
  • My knees...
  • Almost home, time to kill it. And I might have to poop. 
  • Done. time to stretch and relax with my dog.
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A Warm Weekend in CLE

5/12/2014

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After what seemed like a never-ending winter, we finally had a full weekend that felt like spring in Ohio. How convenient that it came just in time for Mother's Day. By the way, I hope all the mothers to human and fur babies know how much they are loved!

A month ago, I was in San Francisco (which, by the way has more dogs than children under age 18 within the city limits!) and out of the blue experienced some severe pain in my foot. I'd been training for the Rite Aid Cleveland 10K so I was a little nervous that maybe I overdid it. I was right. When we got home from our trip, I went to the doctor and found out I have cuboid syndrome, which is essentially a misalignment of the cuboid bone, and was put in a walking boot for three weeks.

Fast forward to Friday, and I finally got back to a boot-free life. First order of business was to purchase new running shoes (I went with Brooks Ravenna 5 & LOVE them!) that would help me keep any future injuries away. Second order of business was to test out the new gear, and let me just say, they are amazing.

Meanwhile, the boyfriend and I decided to start experimenting with our own little indoor garden. So far, I have one tomato plant that I got from the Market Cafe and Wine Bar for $15. I'll likely get one more this week, and we are looking to pick up a few herbs this week, among other things.

Oh, and I can't forget...we went to the Cleveland Flea this weekend. If you are in the area, I highly suggest this monthly event, which brings together local artists, designers, food trucks and more. From clothing to vintage furniture and unique art that lets you show off your city pride, there are so many treasures to be found. I will definitely be going back next month. Since it's outdoors it is dog-friendly, so I will likely take Woody with me next time.


What are your favorite activities (with or without your dog) now that the weather is warm?

Picture
This has been super attractive...
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Ready to hit the pavement!
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Something interesting was happening outside. And howabout that lovely tomato plant??
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    I'm just a twenty-something female raising the weirdest dog I've ever met.

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