Daniela D.’s blog

I started running at the end of 2006.  I didn't really consider myself to be a runner until a bit into 2007... after I'd been running about 3 months, at least 4-5 days a week and I realized I hopefully would always continue.  It was an amazing  feeling and it continues to this day.  While admittedly, sometimes while running I feel I can't go on much longer... I always want to go for my next run.  I've also started alternating routes as well as finally making peace with the treadmill.  I used to hate the treadmill and found it very boring. I can't say it's stimulating now but perhaps the fact that it lets me run on days when I'm too cold is helpful.  Also I finally can run fast enough that it can be called running!  My Garmin Forerunner really helped with that.  I finished my first 5K in under 30 minutes which made me very happy... actually even under 29 minutes!  Only crazy runners like me keep count like that.  You know who you are!    

Show us a politician who gives you hope.

My choice is:  Angela Merkel.  She is giving Germany new hope after a long economic slump... and a bunch of disapointing politicians.

3021

Images

Two weeks ago I purchased an iPhone... fully knowing I may not like all the downsides, hoping the good would outweigh the bad.  I am a gadget nerd... that's for sure.  I also love cellphones that have lots of features and am always looking for a better one.  So it was only a matter of time.  Of course, I did this even though I was advised not to... by a very close friend.  I hope he has forgiven me... Well, I was planning on using it for two weeks to try it out, and then decide to keep it or return it.  The two weeks were up today and... I am keeping it.  (I'm sorry, Chris)  Here's my list of pros and cons:

Today I ran my first race.  The America's Finest City 5K.  It was pretty cool.  I woke up early (5 am) to get ready and I was kinda nervous.  When I turned off the freeway, the road to Balboa Park was gridlock - about 9,000 runners (7,500 for the Half-Marathon and 1,500 for the 5K) all looking for parking.  It ended up moving along and I was at the start line by 6:30 - it started at 6:45.  I saw a friend from my running group and a few other people I knew, so I felt a little less nervous.  Then off we went!  I ended up running the race in 28:59 per my Garmin - actual time per my chip will be posted on their website later, so I am curious how that compares to the Garmin.  My average pace was 9:18.  I'm pretty happy with these results - I was definitely not in the best shape ever today so I know there's room for improvement...  but it's good for now.  

It was the highlight of summer for my daughter and me... we had been wanting to visit Hawaii for so long and we finally went this summer.  As you can see, we really really like the beaches.. mostly North Shore and Kailua.  

IMG_6244

IMG_6262

IMG_6212

IMG_6205

What are your top 10 most-played songs currently?

No such thing - John Mayer
Waiting on the world to change - John Mayer
Not Falling Apart - Maroon 5
My Story - Brandi Carlile
Everytime we touch - Cascada
You know I'm no good - Amy Winehouse
Feels like tonight - Chris Daughtry
What I've Done - Linkin Park
Never say goodbye - Bon Jovi
Since you've been gone - Kelly Clarkson

OK I admit this is the totally strangest assortment of songs! 

I am looking at purchasing a Garmin Forerunner.  Any advice on which model is best?  I mainly want to be able to know my pace and miles ran.  I'm sure I will be interested in more features, just not that familiar with it.  Any advice is greatly appreciated!

Do you know any war veterans?
Submitted by Fightin' 6th Marines.

My father-in-law.  He fought in WWII, Korea and Vietnam.  Pretty much his entire working life, war and the military was his focus.  He is a retired army officer today, age 87.  He has seen things that could screw with anyone's head.  He is a great guy though - his only quirk being that since the 70s, he won't fly in a plane.  It hasn't slowed him down any!